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Thanksgiving and giving thanks
- Betsy Craig
Every two weeks for just over a year now I have been posting blogs here at Networld Alliance sites for you about what is new and hot, and how trends like gluten-free and menu labeling are being played out in restaurants across the country.
I have been spouting off about one perspective or another from "how to make a meal healthier,"to "why all the Gluten Free now," to "choices for menu labeling today" and finally my personal favorite, "how not to have your customers end up in the ER for dessert."
All of this has been as a result of my extensive subject matter expertise in this industry and having my eyes focused on the trends.
Today I am deviating from my normal writings to give a huge shout out and my two cents on a completely different subject; that being gratitude, specifically gratitude for the amazing industry we all share the hospitality industry.
It is that time of the year where we pause and take a time out from the insanity for at least a minute to remember those that have touched our life and what we have to be thankful for. The restaurant industry has always seemed to me to be a small bit bipolar. We can be (manic) crazy-nuts-busy or (depressive) slower than molasses. One trait that has shone through this last year has been the spirit of giving and helping others. It has made me take a hard look at my own company and where we are giving back and how often.
This morning I was returning to my hotel in beautiful Steamboat Springs, Colo., getting ready to submit my bi-weekly blog on a trend topic, but could not get a bigger blog idea out of my mind. This idea of being thankful and just how blessed I am.
In the last year I have watched as a friend, also a fellow Blogger on this site, took to the streets in a tornado torn region this spring to personally hand out subs and feed those in need. His concept has always given back to the community in many ways and this is just one more.
Recently, another friend launched his catering book with a huge financial goal set to go to the national charity (Share our Strength) that clearly needs and will be thankful for the proceeds. It is heartwarming to see the social media posts as he gets closer and closer to that goal.
Finally, I must give a huge shout out to those that have helped me personally and professionally in the last year. You have helped guide, direct, set straight and cheer me and my company on. So many of the blogs I have written have had great response from you the reader and my peers.
As I am writing this I do realize a trend for 2011 was most definitely giving back. Looks like it is going to take us right into 2012 based on every indicator. So cheers to you, your concepts, those that have offered me fellowship in the trenches and for all you do for this girl!
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours. Pass on the gratitude.
Betsy
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