WELCOME
Letter from the Chairman
BY PAUL THOMAS | CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
With the publication of this latest issue of the CHARR Magazine , we are looking forward to our next board meeting and the 20 th Annual Selman Memorial Golf Tournament . It has been a while since we have been able to hold an in-person event and I am excited for this return to normal , while being aware of current levels and proceeding with proper precautions .
We have struggled through shutdowns , restrictions , virtual meetings , and more . But it is good to finally be looking forward and able to plan events where we will be able to see each other in person again , even if there might be some modification to suit the situation . I know it has been a tough year and the repercussions of the pandemic are not over . But I urge you , when you are comfortable , to get out and attend these events and others that are performed in a safe manner . We are social beings and need the social activities that we have been denied over the past year . The hospitality industry , our industry , is based on social activity . This is the crux of why our industry has been hit harder than any other and why we will be able to spring back when safe to do so .
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The drastic change in how we get our “ Social Fix ” has taken a toll on many if not all of us . Patrons , employees , managers , and owners have all been under many different stresses , both professional and personal for much too long , all without much the normalcy in how we get our “ Social Fix ”. The hospitality industry with its variety of member establishments , are a big part of stress relief for
IT IS GOOD TO FINALLY
many people . As gathering places to interact with others over a meal or a drink , or to provide snacks and beverages for that quintessential Alaska outdoor activity like fishing , our industry helps provide the where , how , when , and what for so many social activities that our patrons rely on to relax and enjoy time socially with others .
BE LOOKING FORWARD AND ABLE TO PLAN EVENTS WHERE WE WILL BE ABLE TO SEE EACH OTHER IN PERSON AGAIN
We need to remember to look out after those close to us , as well as serving our community and patrons . No matter what level or position you hold in our industry , you have probably been stretched continuously since this started . As our situation changes and continues to improve , we need to remember to protect our employees and ourselves from burnout and fatigue . Remember to take a break , give recognition of the hard work performed , or recognize those around you who have managed to maintain a positive attitude . This all goes a long way for your mental wellbeing and for the well-being of those you interact with .
I am looking forward to hopefully seeing you all at the Golf Tournament in June in Anchorage and at the Annual Convention in October in sunny Las Vegas . Between now and then , remember to continue to look for ways to lower the chance of burn-out in staff and yourself by getting your own “ Social Fix ”.
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ALASKA CHARR MAGAZINE | 2