At moments like this, when there is uncertainty about the direction of the global economy that in many cases results in a chilling effect on business activity, we look for ways to make cuts, develop contigency plans and focus so hard on the bottom line that people in this "people business" end up getting hurt. It is a painful, unfortunate, yet realistic fact of life. Years of loyalty to an organization and hour after hour of hard work are forgotten in the name of what is supposed to be the better good. Well, this month I want to throw cold water all over those nasty realities by paying tribute to some of this industry's true greats, ranging from a spirited doorman in Chicago (p. 24) to legendary hoteliers nominated this month for HOTELS' annual Hotelier of the World awards. These people need to be held up as examples of what this industry is all about-its people. Let them serve as reminders to the corner-office executives, because this industry does not survive without the likes of Scott Copeland at The James Chicago, whose gift of gab and bright smile is what drives your bottom line-not layoffs, early retirements and service cuts.
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