All,

For the HUG organization, 2013 proved to be a spectacular year and now one can say that 8120′ and a few stairs cannot mar the enthusiasm or success of a conference.  I applaud the commitment of our users, session leaders, Springer-Miller associates, and the Board for putting on a fantastic display of learning, networking, and fun.

2014 will be no different.  The HUG Board met in early January to discuss how we could help provide the membership with new and exciting, informative, and value add programs and features.  The HUG website, smshug.org, is ripe for new opportunity and we expect to better deliver even more value to your membership through it. An improved R&R (and soon to be Crystal) library, past webinars, videos, news updates, stories, and more will lend to your experience as a HUG member.

As your 2014 Chair, I am excited about the challenge and privilege of working for HUG and its members.  It is also my pleasure to introduce the 2014 Board of Directors:

Jeff Winiesdorffer – Château Élan Winery & Resort – Past Chair
Marie Bell – Darien Lake – Vice-Chair
Rich Morehouse – Snowbird Resort – Treasurer
Beata Hunt – Crystal Mountain Resort – Secretary
Brenda Allen – Wintergreen Resort – Board Member
Rick Arrington – Resort Collection at Panama City Beach – Board Member
Kathy Traylor – Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort – Board Member
Amanda Wisell – PAR Springer-Miller Systems – Board Liaison

My two most important initiatives this year include getting more involvement in the HUG organization from properties we don’t typically see at the conference and increased participation from those that do.  We want to know, from your experiences, what works and what doesn’t.  While the surveys are helpful, sometimes they don’t capture the thoughts of reflection everyone has after they get home.  I encourage everyone to reach out to myself, or any board member, as to how we can improve; not just for the conference, but in all aspects of your membership.

Your engagement in the HUG organization is one of distinction.  HUG membership is the only membership the hospitality industry that is run for the users, by the users.  If your hotel, resort, or company is not a member, pass along the benefits to your management team and become involved with other sms|Host, SpaSoft, or Atrio users.

Sincerely,
Joe Rembold
2014 HUG Chair
jrembold@smshug.org