At moments like this, when there is uncertainty about the direction of the global economy that in many cases results in a chilling effect on business activity, we look for ways to make cuts, develop contingency plans and focus so hard on the bottom line that people in this “people business” end up getting hurt. It is a painful, unfortunate, yet realistic fact of life. Years of loyalty to an organization and hour after hour of hard work are forgotten in the name of what is supposed to be the better good. Well, this month I want to throw cold water all over those nasty realities by paying tribute to some of this industry’s true greats, ranging from a spirited doorman in Chicago (p. 24) to legendary hoteliers nominated this month for HOTELS’ annual Hotelier of the World awards. These people need to be held up as examples of what this industry is all about—its people. Let them serve as reminders to the corner-office executives, because this industry does not survive without the likes of Scott Copeland at The James Chicago, whose gift of gab and bright smile is what drives your bottom line—not layoffs, early retirements and service cuts.

Recognize and appreciate the careers of our Hotelier of the World nominees (p. 98), including Kurt Wachtveitl, the steadfast GM at The Oriental in Bangkok since October 1967. As a custodian of Thai culture, he plays an active role in various organizations. His desire to develop young Thai nationals in the hotel industry resulted in the launch of The Oriental Hotel Apprenticeship Programme in October 1990. Kurt should remind you of all the other great general managers who have been slaving away for years, doing the heavy lifting day in and day out and inspiring the next generation of hotelkeepers. Nominee Gordon Campbell Gray is a trained hotelier and gained his initial experience working in large hotel companies but always wanted to focus on creating his own small hotel company. Today he can be passionate about his teams and spends much of his time working with them in the training, inspiration and motivation department.

These are the heroes of this industry that need our support, not a turned back. I am sorry to get up on my bully pulpit and preach, but the next time you are charged with making change as the result of a mammoth corporate takeover, think long and hard about the people in the organization that touch your customers every day and have the most positive impact on your balance sheet. Then find other ways to affect change other than abruptly interrupting the careers of true hoteliers.

We have at least nine great hoteliers featured in this month’s issue—including eight industry legends nominated for our “Oscar” and a doorman who personifies what is truly great about the hotel business. Read about Scott Copeland; vote for the Hotelier of the World awards; and get some perspective about the hotel business.