The Media and its Negative impact on The Hospitality Industry

[Ari Shapiro]

Its amazing how perceptions have such negative impacts on our industry. I am hearing story after story of programs canceling left and right in this industry. Some with good reason but many strictly based on perception. Programs that face 100% cancellation penalties are being scrapped purely to avoid negative press. I suggest you watch this recent clip from CNN http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/02/10/campbell.brown.wells.fargo/i... . I am very aware that the media is bias and is driven by ratings, however there is a level of slander towards the hospitality industry right now. The media seems to have total disregard to this multi-billion dollar industry that supports many citizens, towns, states and countries.

I have scene letters from the leaders of many of our hospitality associations however I have not heard from our state representatives. I recently signed the following petition
http://www.keepamericameeting.org/ . Is anyone aware of any other National organizations that might stand up for our industry and represent us . I encourage all of you in the industry to reach out to whom every you know that has "the right connections" and ask for their help.