This newsletter hails from Memphis, TN and we were left untouched by the recent tornadoes of Sunday past. Many of our neighbors in other parts of TN, AR and MS were not so fortunate. Heartfelt thoughts to those persons most effected.

When something like this happens, one of the best "tools" to help your Sales, Marketing and PR is to mobilize a help response team. I'm not advocating taking advantage of the situation - but using resources you already have in place to help others in need. You may or may not receive some media coverage, if you do - it's FREE - and everyone benefits. When I can't help firsthand generally I turn to the Red Cross for information and seeing that my contribution goes where I want it to. As an industry we have plenty of resources, both in person-power and financially. Please give it some consideration when you formulate budgets and employeee schedules. Most importantly - do it from your heart!

Many of the newest subscribers (added 100+) since last week are from some type of school/college and have written me with additional requests for starting points in the Hospitality Industry. Usually I make mention of the American Hotel/Motel Association, National Restaurant Association and the US Chamber. Each offers a wealth of free information and are very helpful. If anyone has some International pointers let me know - I'll be glad to pass them along.

To the many Restaurant affiliated readership - when was the last time you printed a coupon/discount on the back of a business card or take-away menu? Even a simple rubber-stamp works well. Everyones best resource for business is the customer/client you already have! We often forget that it's the repeat diners/hotel guests/members already served that generate an incredible amount of business both "old" and new to be truly successful. I'm amazed when I leave a restaurant empty-handed (other than leftovers) and management (I know - you're too busy!) hasn't asked me to try to come back on a Monday (I hear it's slow) or at late lunch (1PM-3PM) to enjoy a special. That rubber-stamp or pre-printed label isn't expensive. What are you waiting for!? Try it - I think you'll be surprised by the results.

Some of you have asked about costs associated with this newsletter. Other than my $$$time$$$, here's a look at the numbers. The Web Hosting portion (Web site) is $25/month and my Internet access (ISP) is the common $20/month for a whopping total of $45/month! This has got to be the best paid "buy" when considering an advertising/marketing medium. That's why I'm so surprised more of you don't take advantage of it with your own sites, and instead rely on your national corporate sites to take care of your needs. I've reached out to hotel properties under 200 rooms and this is where I'm so successful. Right now I'm reaching you at a cost of about 10cents/subscriber/month. Before you write me - I know - there's a cost for the phone and computer, but that's a given.

Lastly, since I've received a number of inquiries regarding my web site, things should go fully functional around January 25th. It's taking more time than I had planned and thanks to those of you who have visited the archive; https://www.hospitality-1st.com/  I'm thrilled with the "sponsorship" offers that have come to my attention. On January 21st
(Thursday) you'll receive an e-mail regarding the free "Positions Available" posting as previously mentioned in past editions.

>>>>>Featured Web Sites Mentioned<<<<<
Red Cross
https://www.redcross.org/
American Hotel/Motel Association
https://www.ahma.com/
National Restaurant Association
https://www.restaurant.org/
US Chamber
https://www.uschamber.org/mall/states.htm
Hospitality 1ST
https://www.hospitality-1st.com/

Your time and considerations are appreciated and you know I try to keep this newsletter brief...
Sincerely,
Lou Taverna, Editor
(901)624-5826 TN or (336)760-3143 NC
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