6 • PENNSYLVANIA RESTAURANT & LODGING matters • Summer 2022 CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE FOR ME, THESE words could not ring truer as my year as chairman of the board winds down. The tenacity of our members never ceases to amaze me. It fills me with gratitude to be a member of this organization and industry. The honorees at the 2022 Spirit of Hospitality Awards Gala illustrated this point with each story of perseverance, service, and innovation. This edition of Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Matters highlights their stories and achievements. This year, our organization was tenacious in its search for a new leader while continuing to focus on tackling our most important objectives, such as workforce development and industry reputation. These concepts go hand in hand as we engage in the long game of workforce development while simultaneously changing the conversation with young people on the opportunities and possibilities this industry provides. We have more to do but have a solid foundation to build on through previous campaigns and partnerships. While staffing needs are immediate, getting the next generation excited by the possibilities our industry can ensure our long-term success. PRLA is hosting a pilot hospitality boot-camp this fall for high school students not currently enrolled in a culinary or hospitality program to expose them to the opportunities waiting for them in hospitality. I encourage you to reach out in your community to engage with your secondary schools and start the conversation about jobs and career pathways provided by the industry. I have immense gratitude towards our search committee, board, and officers for their commitment to finding the right person for the right moment. As our president and CEO, Joe Massaro brings more than thirty years of hospitality experience and a deep understanding of the industry into his role. Our members get stuff done and I couldn’t be prouder to be part of this industry and association. • Television icon Henry Winkler, who portrayed the Fonz on Happy Days, once said, “I live by two words: Tenacity and gratitude.” Tom Neely THOMAS A. STRAUSS INC. LANCASTER CHAPTER Tenacity & Gratitude
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