Watch as our 2018 HFTP Annual Convention exhibitors compete for the most regsitered attendee referrals for this year's event in Louisville, KY USA. The winning company will be presented with an award at the HFTP Annual Business Meeting on Friday, October 26 at 9:15 a.m. EST. Check back often for updates!Here is what we know:HFTP is exhibiting at the 2018 HFTP Annual Convention in Louisville, KYYour company wants to network, demonstrate your products and services, and have funHere is what HFTP challenges you to do:Refer Annual Convention to people you know (colleagues, customers and prospects)Those people register and select "Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals" as referring exhibitor during the registration processYour company has a chance to win the Attendee Referral Award, presented at the Annual Convention Business Meeting and be acknowledged in front of all of your peersWe have even made it easy for you by creating this invitation that can be easily customized by your company. Simply send this invitation out to your clients, prospects and industry colleagues, inviting them to the HFTP Annual Convention. The company with the most attendee referrals wins! Attendee referral registrations received between September 27 and October 22, 2018 will count toward the competition. Questions? Contact exhibit@hftp.org. Progress of the competition will be posted on the HFTP website. On your mark, get set, go!Invite Your Customers and Prospects>

Do not miss the following upcoming HFTP webinars. Click here to visit the HFTP webinar web page, and register for the webinars listed below.November 12, 2018"Artificial Intelligence and Big Data for the Hospitality Industry"What: HFTP online webinarWhen: 9:00 - 10:00 p.m. CST on November 12Who: presented by Kanishka Agiwal, head of IBM's travel and transportation industry for India/South Asia and a member of the IBM Industry AcademyAbout: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the most important general-purpose technology of this era. It has boundless potential across the travel and hospitality industry, and we are just beginning to see the possibilities that take the guest experience to a whole new level. In this session, understand the different types of data and how the way data is captured is changing; why traditional systems must adapt with these changes; how AI transforms the customer experience; and explore use cases to help you ideate for your own organization.November 13, 2018"Artificial Intelligence and Big Data for the Hospitality Industry"What: HFTP online webinarWhen: 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. HKT on November 13Who: presented by Kanishka Agiwal, head of IBM's travel and transportation industry for India/South Asia and a member of the IBM Industry AcademyAbout: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the most important general-purpose technology of this era. It has boundless potential across the travel and hospitality industry, and we are just beginning to see the possibilities that take the guest experience to a whole new level. In this session, understand the different types of data and how the way data is captured is changing; why traditional systems must adapt with these changes; how AI transforms the customer experience; and explore use cases to help you ideate for your own organization."Mapping the Travel Journey of the Chinese Tourist"What: HFTP online webinarWhen: 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM CST on November 13Who: presented by Charlene Ree, managing director at BiddingX -- an award-winning marketing technology platform that uses performance-driven AI algorithms to empower global marketers' advertising in China. She has over 15 years of digital media and advertising experience.About: Chinese tourists account for more than one-fifth of all global tourism spending. A better understanding of the Chinese tourist's travel journey will enable brand marketers to more easily and effectively map out their marketing/advertising direction. This webinar will guide the travel industry professional through this journey, sharing practical strategies and related case studies along the way. Understand the mindset and behaviors of the Chinese tourist; explore the four main stages of their travel journey; and examine strategies to connect across each stage.November 14, 2018"Mapping the Travel Journey of the Chinese Tourist"What: HFTP online webinarWhen: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM HKT on November 14Who: presented by Charlene Ree, managing director at BiddingX -- an award-winning marketing technology platform that uses performance-driven AI algorithms to empower global marketers' advertising in China. She has over 15 years of digital media and advertising experience.About: Chinese tourists account for more than one-fifth of all global tourism spending. A better understanding of the Chinese tourist's travel journey will enable brand marketers to more easily and effectively map out their marketing/advertising direction. This webinar will guide the travel industry professional through this journey, sharing practical strategies and related case studies along the way. Understand the mindset and behaviors of the Chinese tourist; explore the four main stages of their travel journey; and examine strategies to connect across each stage.Learn More and Register>

Join HFTP Global for a special hospitality educational event about data security and information security. Speaker Kok-Tin Gan is a partner at PwC's Cyber Security & Privacy practice with over 15 years of experience in IT governance, cyber security strategy and framework, cyber security governance, security management, IT risk, technology architecture and ethical hacking. HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe, CAE will be in attendance. Event Details:When: 9 November 2018 | 19:00 - 21:00 HKTWhere: Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong 64 Mody Road, Kowloon, Hong KongSpeaker: Kok-Tin Gan, Cybersecurity ExpertRSVP HERE *Deadline to RSVP: Tuesday, 6 November 2018.

The 2018 Annual Convention app that is now available. Search for "HFTP Events" in the Apple and Google Play stores to download the app now. The 2018 HFTP Annual Convention app is an interactive and informative tool that allows you to organize your convention experience, so you can arrive prepared and ready to go. Connect with attendees and exhibitors through in-app correspondence capabilities. Send a message, request a meeting and share contact information. HFTP Annual Convention is taking place October 24-26, 2018 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA. Register now.Even before you arrive at the 2018 HFTP Annual Convention, the app will serve as your comprehensive guide for information on 2018 HFTP Annual Convention. View the agenda for each day's sessions or search by education track.Arrange your education sessions and save to your agenda for easy reference.Connect with attendees and exhibitors through in-app correspondence capabilities. Send a message, request a meeting and share contact information.Search for exhibitors, hospitality products and solutions, or request a meeting.(Note: HFTP respects the privacy of our attendees. All registered exhibitors and attendees may view the list of participants in the HFTP Events app. Unless you share your contact information directly, all in-app correspondence is done solely in the app.)Download for AppleDownload for Google PlayRegister for HFTP Annual Convention

Congratulations to the 2018 HFTP Chapter of the Year winners. The HFTP Chapter of the Year Awards recognize chapters that further the goals of HFTP by providing quality educational and professional opportunities to their members, along with involvement in the local community. The following chapters will be honored at HFTP's 2018 Annual Convention in Louisville, Kentucky USA this month.2018 HFTP Chapters of the YearTier A (1-35) - HFTP Monterey ChapterTier B (36-70) - HFTP Florida Manasota ChapterTier C (71+) - HFTP Mid-Florida ChapterProceduresChapter of the Year CriteriaChapter of the Year Scorecard (Sample)About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP(r)), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com(r). For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org.Follow HFTP on social media Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.

OCTOBER 9, 9:00 AM -10:00 AM HKT OCTOBER 8, 8:00 PM -9:00 PM CSTAn upcoming HFTP ProLinks webinar has been scheduled, with a focus on the Asian hospitality market. Although GDPR went into effect earlier this year in May, the sky has not fallen on hotels that are not yet in compliance. There is still time to develop a strong plan to comply with GDPR. Let's get started.In this session, understand how GDPR applies to you and your company; explore the most important aspects relating to GDPR; and develop a business plan for GDPR compliance.Richard Sheinis, Esq., CIPP-US is a partner at the law firm of Hall Booth Smith, P.C.Specialty Reporting Area: General

The HFTP Germany interest meeting scheduled for Thursday 27 September 2018 at the Holiday Inn Express Frankfurt Airport in Frankfurt, Germany has been cancelled. More information will follow on future HFTP Europe meetings. Thank you for your interest and HFTP looks forward to seeing you at a future meeting. If you have any questions, please contact Carl Weldon, HFTP COO Europe.Save the date for HITEC Europe taking place 9-11 April, 2019 at the Palau de Congressos in Palma, Mallorca, Spain.#HITECeur

For certification holders who plan to attend HFTP Annual Convention 2018, you are invited to join other Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP(r)) and Certified Hospitality Accountant Executive (CHAE(r)) designees at the 2018 Annual Convention Certification Reception on Wednesday, October 24, 2018 from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. in the Olmsted Prefunction inside the Omni Louisville Hotel. Come mingle and get to know your fellow designees while enjoying cocktails and appetizers. If you would like to attend this exclusive reception, please RSVP by phone or e-mail to reserve your place by October 12, 2018.RSVP by e-mail: certification@hftp.org RSVP by phone: +1-512-220-4021 or toll free: +1-800-646-4387 (USA)A gift will be given to those who attend on a first come, first served basis. HFTP Annual Convention is taking place October 24-26, 2018 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA. If you have not yet registered for the HFTP Annual Convention, be sure to register today for the best rate. Early registration is ending soon on September 26, so click here to register today for the best rate. For those visiting out of state, book your hotel room before September 29, 2018 and visit the Annual Convention hotel and travel webpage for travel deals. Helpful Links:Annual Convention Website>Annual Convention RegistrationHFTP Certifications Webpage>

To ensure the safety of our members and stakeholders in Asia, HFTP is postponing the Asia-focused webinar, "Artificial Intelligence and Big Data for the Hospitality Industry," that was scheduled for September 19, 9:00 AM HKT/September 18, 8:00 PM CDT, due to the impact of Typhoon Mangkhut.This webinar will be rescheduled for a later date. Please visit the website for details.Contact the HFTP Meetings and Event Department for more information or to submit your webinar topic idea: Angela Dowell (angela.dowell@hftp.org) by email or phone +1 (512) 220-6441 or Celina Mendieta by email (celina.mendieta@hftp.org) or phone+1 (512) 220-4024.Helpful Links:HFTP WebsiteUpcoming WebinarsWebinar ArchiveAbout HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP(r)), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com(r). For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org.Follow HFTP on social media Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.

The "Why Join HFTP" video contest is designed to give HFTP members the chance to explain why they are passionate about HFTP. Team up with three to five HFTP members and create a 30-120 second video explaining why you are passionate about HFTP. The winning team will receive $1,000 USD, and their video will be shown at the 2018 HFTP Annual Convention this October. Video entries will be accepted starting on September 6, 2018 and ending December 1, 2018. All online entries must be received by October 15, 2018 at 3:00 p.m. CST to be eligible to win the Grand Prize.Contest Overview:Who Can Participate?The "Why Join HFTP" Video contest is open to all HFTP members. HFTP staff and HFTP Board of Directors or family members of HFTP Staff and HFTP Board of Directors are not eligible to participate in the Contest.Date of ContestVideo entries will be accepted starting on September 6, 2018 and ending October 15, 2018. All online entries must be received by October 15, 20183:00 p.m. CST to be eligible to win the Grand Prize.PurposeThe purpose of this competition is to highlight all the amazing things HFTP membership offers. So "Why Join HFTP" can be any positive reason your team has for encouraging membership. Here are some examples, but keep in mind that there are so many ways to show why hospitality professionals should join HFTP.PrizeThe winning team's video will be selected by a committee of HFTP representatives. Winning team will receive $1,000.00 USD. Video will be shown at the HFTP 2018 Annual Convention.How to Enter:Get with 3-5 HFTP members and create a team. Teams must be no smaller than 3 people, and no larger than 5 people.Choose a clever team name.Create a video with a theme of "Why To Join HFTP". For example, how has HFTP changed your career, things HFTP offers its members, etc.Video must be submitted to the submission form via link through a page of your choice (YouTube, Vimeo, etc.).Video length must be between 30 and 120 seconds.Agree to contest Terms and Conditions (see below).Upload your video to the submission form here.Contest Terms and ConditionsFor full contest terms and conditions, click here. The entry must fulfill all contest requirements, as specified, to be eligible to win a prize. Attendees may enter only once. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Twitter, Vimeo, YouTube, Instagram or Facebook.Questions?Please contact Millicent Gustafson at Millicent.Gustafson@hftp.org or Melissa Trevino at Melissa.Trevino@hftp.org.Share the contest with a colleague with this flyer.

Join HFTP and other area hospitality professionals at the upcoming member interest event later this month in Frankfurt, Germany. The get-together will offer what HFTP does best: networking with an educational presentation. Also, if you have a colleague who would be interested in attending, please ask them to join the event as well.Details:Thursday 27 September 2018 | Frankfurt, Germany Location: Holiday Inn Express Frankfurt Airport Arrivals and networking starts at 17:00Presentation and Information starts at 17:30Agenda:Welcome and Introductions: Timo Kettern, Director IT, EVENT European Services GmbH, ein Unternehmender EVENT Hotels | Carl Weldon, Chief Operating Officer, HFTP EuropePresentation on GDPR: Dr. Michael Toedt, Founder & CEO, dailypoint tm - Software by ToedtRSVP Today!Thank you to Infor for sponsoring this event.

HFTP's chapters plan exciting events each month. This month, the HFTP Greater Louisville Chapter is hosting an event on September 18, 2018. Taking place at MCM CPAs & Advisors LLP in Louisville, Kentucky USA, there will be pizza, snacks, beverages and an evening seminar about new federal and Kentucky tax laws. The evening seminar will be presented by Ashley Barke, CPA starting at 6:30 p.m. For those planning to attend, parking is available at the 4th Street Live! (5th Street) or Seelbach parking garages (Muhammad Ali Blvd). RSVP to earn CPE credit.*Dont forget to make your donations to HFTP HELPS Silent Auction taking place at the HFTP Annual Convention Omni Louisville 10/ 25/18. More information here.---About HFTP Chapters:HFTP has more than 76 local chapters throughout the world. Attend chapter meetings to connect with your local network of HFTP members and share solutions with professionals in your community. Chapters provide tremendous opportunities for education and networking. Find a HFTP chapter and get involved today. HFTP chapters offer several opportunities for involvement and leadership, from officers and committee members to volunteers. Get involved with HFTP at the local level and beyond. HFTP offers chapter leaders chapter specific online webinars through a series of education training webinars. HFTP Event Schedule>HFTP Chapter Information>Find HFTP Chapter Near You>

Are you interested in receiving a complimentary registration to HFTP Annual Convention next month? Do you have writing skills? Apply to be an official guest blogger for HFTP Annual Convention today! Email briana.gilmore@hftp.org for more details.HFTP Annual Convention 2018 will take place from October 24-26, 2018 at the new Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA. Click here to learn more.

HFTP relies on the collective vision, knowledge and experience of its members. HFTP offers multiple opportunities to get involved and be an active member of your association. This is your chance to get involved and volunteer for an HFTP Council or Committee.Have a specific interest within your association? Volunteer to serve on an HFTP Global Committee or Council that fits your needs. HFTP committees and councils provide guidance and leadership to the association, assuring that HFTP promotes excellence in the hospitality industry.Volunteer for an HFTP Council or Committee>Learn More>

The following individuals passed the exam for the Certified Hospitality Accountant Executive (CHAE(r)). Click here to learn more about HFTP's certification programs.New DesigneesKerry Anne Brown, CHAE * Controller * Tequesta Country Club * USACharles Doria, CHAE * Assistant Controller * Bonnie Briar Country Club * USAJack Fritsche, CHAE * SVP - CFO * Donohoe Hospitality Services * USARobert Johnson, CHAE * Controller * Lionstone * USATucker Johnson, CHAE * Assist. Instructional Professor * Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel & Restaurant Management * USAWhy Get Certified?Elevate your professionalism and demonstrate superior industry performance. Active certificants have reported higher salaries and various career advancement opportunities. Becoming certified indicates that you are committed to professionalism, continuing education and your chosen career path. HFTP offers the only designations for finance and technology professionals who are working in the hospitality industry. How HFTP Certification Can Advance Your Career>New Certification Advisory Program (CAP)HFTP is launching an inaugural program designed to assist CHAE and CHTP certification applicants in achieving their HFTP certification designation. The NEW Certification Advisory Program brings together both candidates and advisors, who will help and support candidates in one-to-one interactions, as a supplemental review option for the certification exams. Learn More>About HFTP CertificationsHFTP administers the examination and awards the certification for the Certified Hospitality Accountant Executive (CHAE) and the Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP) designations. HFTP's certification programs are globally recognized for setting industry standards for hospitality finance and technology. Qualification for the exams is based on level of education and experience in the industry. Student programs are also available. Find out how to apply as well as exam information, study guides, check lists and much more by visiting HFTP's website at www.hftp.org (click "Career Development" at the top).Questions?For questions or more information on HFTP's certification programs, contact HFTP Certification Manager Robin Bogdon at robin.bogdon@hftp.org or +1 (512) 220-4021.

HFTP will host an event for its Young Professional members attending Annual Convention in Louisville, Kentucky USA this October. Join HFTP's young professionals at the rooftop pool at the Omni Louisville Hotel on October 25 from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. for an evening of networking and fun. Enjoy refreshing drinks and appetizers as you learn, engage and connect with the hospitality industry's future leaders.Also featuring a station to make your own Kentucky derby hat as well as a photo booth. The event is open to students, young professionals and professionals who are willing to be a mentor to HFTP Young Professionals. Must RSVP to attend. *For registered HFTP Annual Convention attendees only.HFTP Annual Convention will take place from October 24-26, 2018 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA.RSVP>Register for Annual Convention>HFTP Young Professional Video>

Check out the upcoming HFTP chapter event calendar. Click here to view the upcoming events.HFTP has more than 76 local chapters throughout the world. Attend chapter meetings to connect with your local network of HFTP members and share solutions with professionals in your community. Chapters provide tremendous opportunities for education and networking. Find a HFTP chapter and get involved today. MoreHFTP chapters offer several opportunities for involvement and leadership, from officers and committee members to volunteers. Get involved with HFTP at the local level and beyond. MoreHFTP offers chapter leaders chapter specific online webinars through a series of education training webinars. MoreLearn more about HFTP chapters>Find a chapter near you>

HFTP Helps 2018As part of its ongoing charitable efforts, HFTP Helps at the 2018 HFTP Annual Convention will direct its fundraising towards the HFTP Scholarship fund in support of hospitality education. From its very beginning, HFTP and its chapters have actively provided for students working toward a career in hospitality and supporting the next generation of hospitality professionals. Traditionally, the HFTP Helps program has also supported a local charity located in the Annual Convention's host city. To follow tradition, the money raised at this year's event for the HFTP Scholarship will be directed to area hospitality, finance and technology centered education programs overseen by NAF. The HFTP Helps silent auction fundraiser will be held Friday, October 26, 2018 from 5:15 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at HFTP Annual Convention. HFTP Annual Convention will take place from October 24-26, 2018 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA.About NAFNAF is a national network of education, business, and community leaders who work together to ensure high school students are college, career and future ready. NAF has grown from one NAF Academy of Finance in New York City to hundreds of academies across the country focusing on growing industries including: finance, hospitality & tourism, information technology, engineering, and health sciences. During the 2017-18 school year, over 100,000 students attended 644 NAF academies across 36 states, including DC and the US Virgin Islands. In 2017, NAF academies reported 97 percent of seniors graduated with 90 percent of graduates planned to go to college.Ways to HelpSilent Auction Fundraiser: In conjunction with the HFTP Friday Gala, HFTP Helps will hold a silent auction in support of the HFTP Scholarship fund to be directed to area NAF chapters. HFTP is currently seeking item donations for the HFTP Helps Silent Auction. Register, view items and bid on silent auction items here. Please send suggestions to publications@hftp.org.Greater Louisville Chapter Event: Experience a piece of Louisville history and contribute to HFTP Helps. Attend the Thursday night social event hosted by one of HFTP's newest chapters, taking place October 25, 2018 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Kentucky Derby Museum. The event will include food and cocktails, a live DJ, tours of Churchill Downs Racetrack, and storytelling about Halloween haunts and tales of lore that will send a chill down your spine. A portion of the tickets ($50 USD donation per person) will be contributed to the 2018 HFTP Helps fundraiser.Learn More about HFTP Helps>Register for Annual Convention>

Last week on July 27, HFTP hosted an IT work group interest meeting at the Hotel ICON in Hong Kong. Attendees were regional IT professionals and education experts from the hospitality industry who came together to discuss the latest industry trends and challenges. At the meeting was HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe, who led a discussion on the current state of hospitality in Hong Kong and raised the idea of chartering an HFTP IT professional chapter in Hong Kong. The chapter would give members the opportunity to better communicate and network with each other.HFTP has more than 76 chapters throughout the world, and attending chapter meetings allows members to connect with a local network of HFTP members and hospitality professionals. Chapters members meet to share solutions and consult with other professionals in the community. Tremendous educational opportunities are provided as well. The chapter plan was recognized and accepted by the audience; and a detailed charter plan will be discussed and implemented in the near future.

Check out the upcoming HFTP chapter event calendar. Click here to view the upcoming events.HFTP has more than 76 local chapters throughout the world. Attend chapter meetings to connect with your local network of HFTP members and share solutions with professionals in your community. Chapters provide tremendous opportunities for education and networking. Find a HFTP chapter and get involved today. MoreHFTP chapters offer several opportunities for involvement and leadership, from officers and committee members to volunteers. Get involved with HFTP at the local level and beyond. MoreHFTP offers chapter leaders chapter specific online webinars through a series of education training webinars. MoreLearn more about HFTP chapters>Find a chapter near you>

HFTP upcoming webinars for July 2018. Click here to visit the HFTP webinar web page, and register for the webinars listed below.August 7, 2018Cyber Liability Insurance: Five Reasons to Consider It | 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. CDTCyber liability insurance can play an important role in your overall risk management strategy. This course provides an overview of cyber liability insurance and five main reasons to purchase this type of coverage as it applies to hotels, clubs and golf courses. With the help of relevant case studies, attendees will gain a better understanding of cyber liability insurance and the potential costs when a breach does occur.Patrick Costello co-founded Evolve MGA with his brother Mike in 2015, which has since grown tremendously with the development of an industry leading cyber program for their brokers and clients. As he focuses on the rapidly expanding cyber insurance market, Patrick is determined to provide his brokers the tools they need to give their clients peace of mind when addressing the exposures of the modern world.August 23, 2018Chapter Leader Webinar: Board Dynamics - Tapping Into Talent | 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. CDTEvery Chapter needs strong leadership. No matter how success is defined, Chapters need the best possible board of directors to guide the Chapter's programs. This webinar focuses on learning how to foster board cohesiveness and collaboration by knowing the dynamics of the board makeup. The goal is to create genuine partnerships and unity with, and among, board members.Trevor Mitchell, MBA, CAE, executive director and CEO at American Mensa Limited, oversees the day-to-day operations of the National Office. He works with the Chair and other national representatives on international Mensa issues that impact American Mensa and also works with the Mensa Foundation on its projects and programs.August 28, 2018Budgeting: Move Towards Automation | 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. CDTFor financial professionals, the budget process has always been at the forefront, but in recent years it has taken on new importance among budget committees, general managers and members alike. For years, the club industry has relied on Excel and manual data entry to produce their budgets and forecasts, a system at great risk for errors that can replicate throughout the process. Attend this session for the tools necessary to help streamline the budget process, improve operations and ensure greater accuracy.Jonathon Goodman, CPA, CHAE, is the current club controller at Frenchman's Creek Beach and Country Club in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. He has successfully implemented several innovative programs related to the automation of many accounting and membership functions.Learn More>

Congratulations to Juan Jesus Trevino, student of the Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management at the University of Houston, for receiving the John H. Cahill CIO Summit Scholarship. Honoring HFTP Past President and HFTP International Hospitality Technology Hall of Fame inductee John H. Cahill. The upcoming CIO Summit, sponsored by HFTP, will be held September 5-7, 2018 in Seattle, Washington USA."With a stellar academic background and good hospitality and IT work experience, we believe Juan has a bright future and solid potential in hospitality technology ahead of him," said Dr. Agnes DeFranco.After graduating from a magnet high school with advancement placement, Trevino decided to attend his local community college for one semester to finish all the required core classes. He obtained his associates degree in one semester at South Texas College with a perfect 4.0 GPA before transferring to the University of Houston. With only one semester's work at UH, and wanting to know about the many facets of the hospitality industry, he joined the HFTP Cougar Chapter and the Texas Restaurant Association Cougar Chapter at the Hilton College, and the Undergraduate Real Estate Scholars association at the business college. In the summer of 2016 and 2017, Trevino contributed in a major network upgrade at Arenas Del Mar, an 80-room resort hotel in Tampico, Mexico. This project involved rewiring and installation of new devices throughout the property.Mr. Trevino is studying hotel and restaurant management with plans to graduate in May of 2020.The creation of the John Cahill Honorary Seat was a special addition to the annual CIO Summit. Each year one student is awarded an exclusive invitation to attend the CIO Summit in Mr. Cahill's honor. Hospitality Upgrade first announced this special addition at the John Cahill Memorial Reception at HITEC 2016 in New Orleans. "When the CIO Summit was in its early stages, John was committed to being there and to help make it a success," said Rich Siegel. "John attended our very first CIO Summit in 2002 and he encouraged others to join us. He was a true advocate for the industry and hotel technology."The John Cahill Honorary Seat is awarded to one distinguished student from a selected university or four-year college with a hotel program. This student is recommended by his or her professors as an individual with great potential in the hotel technology industry. The selected student will be given an exclusive opportunity to network and learn beside our industry's best and brightest technology leaders for the duration of the CIO Summit.John Cahill was a hotel technology professional, industry leader, mentor, father and friend. Over the course of his career, Cahill was the CIO for three hotel companies - ITT Sheraton, InterContinental Hotels and The Denihan Hospitality Group. Cahill's list of industry contributions is extensive, including co-editing the inaugural CHTP exam in 1995. Cahill was inducted into the HFTP International Hospitality Technology Hall of Fame in 1993, and was an HFTP Global Past President (2001-2002). Above all, Cahill was a mentor. Hospitality Upgrade's Rich Siegel wished to see his memory live on by presenting one student each year with an exclusive opportunity to attend an otherwise closed-door, invitation-only CIO Summit, allowing the student to sit in John's seat for the two-day event. "It's something we know John would have loved," Siegel said.The previous recipients of this award include inaugural recipient Spencer Rung, a 2016 graduate of the Penn State School of Hospitality Management; and the 2017 recipient, Andrew Trupia, a graduate of the University of Nevada - Las Vegas who is currently working at the Beverly Hills Hotel.Read full article>CIO Summit>

For those who attended HITEC Houston and want to receive educational credits for their participation, please fill out the following form to receive CPE credits. Today is the last day to submit education credits. #HITECtx

Do you have a colleague who has made a lasting contribution to both HFTP and the hospitality industry? HFTP is accepting Paragon Award nominations until August 10, 2018.In 1999, HFTP established the annual, prestigious Paragon Award to recognize individuals who have made a significant and lasting contribution to both HFTP and the hospitality industry. Paragon Award nominees can be HFTP members; representatives of industry-related associations, societies, or trade publications; or leaders from hospitality businesses, educational institutions, and other related disciplines. A panel of industry experts selects the award winner who will be recognized at HFTP's Annual Convention in October.The nomination and selection process begins in the summer of each year. For more information on the Paragon Award, contact Eliza Selig at +1 (512) 249-5333 or (800) 646-4387.Click here for the nomination form. Click here to learn more about the HFTP Paragon Award.

In the wake of the last two years' co-location of HFTP's HITEC Europe in Amsterdam and HSMAI Region Europe's ROC & DOC (Revenue Optimization Conference and Distribution Optimization Conference), the two organizations have agreed to extend their partnership to next year. For the very first time the events will take place in Palma De Mallorca, Spain. Next year's venue will be the hotel and convention center Palau de Congressos in Palma, and the events will take place between April 9-11, 2019. HFTP's HITEC Europe will take place April 10-11, 2019. Learn more at www.hitec.org and https://hsmai.eu."Our joint efforts in Amsterdam, where HTFP's HITEC Europe 2018 and our ROC & DOC took place turned out to serve both parties' interests, prompting us to seek a renewal of the fruitful partnership," says HSMAI Region Europe President and CEO Ingunn Hofseth. "Many view Mallorca as the heartland of the Spanish hospitality industry. With regard to logistics Mallorca has the third largest airport in Spain, after Barcelona and Madrid, with lots of direct flights, especially low-cost airlines, from all over Europe. In Palma we also find most of the major Spanish group HQs, such as Melia, Barcelo, Iberostar, Riu, Pineiro and of course lots of smaller groups and independent hotels and other important companies in the hotel and travel industry," she continues.HFTP and HSMAI's goals are coinciding and interwoven on so many levels that an extensive cooperation has proven to be highly useful for both parties."HFTP's goal is to build HITEC Europe into an important annual event to exchange and shape current ideas and trends across multiple disciplines within hospitality. Having HSMAI Region Europe's ROC and DOC conferences and other activities co-located with HITEC Europe boosts this goal as it will bring top professionals in revenue management and marketing together with HITEC's technology and finance professionals, all areas that are woven together in the hospitality sphere," says HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe in a statement.HITEC is considered one of the world's leading conferences in hospitality technology, with conferences held in the U.S., the Middle East and Europe, among which the American one the largest. HSMAI Region Europe has attended the U.S. HITEC in Houston before, held in cooperation with HSMAI in America, by the way, rendering the partnership a highly international one.Read the Full Press Release>HITEC Europe Website>HSMAI Region Europe Website>

You are invited! Are you in the Hong Kong area and work in hospitality? HFTP is hosting an IT Working Group Interest Meeting on July 27, 2018 where hospitality IT professionals in the area will be able to meet and discuss the latest industry trends and network with colleagues. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about HFTP, an international association; and the projects and programs it produces to support the professional hospitality finance and technology community. There will also be a presentation from HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe during the meeting. Arrivals and networking starts at 18:30 HKT.Event details:27 July 2018 | 18:30 - 21:00 HKTLocation: Hotel Icon | Hong Kong Polytechnic University17 Science Museum Road Tsim Sha Tsui EastKowloon, Hong KongRSVP today: http://bit.ly/2uui9fz

HFTP's Florida Regional Conference is taking place July 25-27, 2018 at The Westin Sarasota in Sarasota, Florida USA. Join an estimated 150 professionals in the hospitality finance and technology field for three days of guest speakers, vendor exhibits and educational advancement. The 2018 HFTP Florida Regional schedule of events can be found here. Thank you to the event sponsors. Visit the event website to learn more.Hosted by the HFTP Florida Gulf Coast Chapter, HFTP Manasota Chapter and HFTP University of South Florida Sarasota - Manatee Chapter. Click here to learn more about HFTP chapters and find an HFTP chapter near you today.