Annual Awards Dinner

Dear Team,

It seems like the only news we hear these days is bad news. The economy is taking a bite out of every aspect of most people's lives. According to economist, Bernard Baumohl, the 13 consecutive months of job loss in the hotel industry is the longest such streak since we began keeping statistics in 1939. With non-stop negative headlines, it seems we are all yearning for a little good news, and our annual awards recognition dinner was exactly that. The event team overcame the challenge of a reduced budget by getting creative and put together a night that rocked the house. It was great to see the enthusiasm as we celebrated the true stars of FHG. What a night, what a team! For me, it was particularly great to see so many people who have moved up through the ranks in our company on stage. It feels good to step back and focus on our good fortune rather than our plight. We have an incredibly talented team. If the seas are going to be rough, I would rather sail with the talent in that room than anyone else. Of course, let's not forget, a great team starts with great coaching, and we are lucky to have the best in the business. I don't want to sound pollyannaish, because these are difficult times, but it is indeed great to stop and raise a toast to your hard work.

There is, of course, one more person that I would like to thank. Our liquidity is a testament to the principals and values of our founder, Stephen Schwartz. The strength of his leadership has never been more vivid. When the smoke clears, FHG will still be standing and growing, and celebrating.

Sincerely,

Robert J. Habeeb
President/COO