I always look forward to this time of year.  As a restaurant operator in Vancouver years ago, I always made sure I attended the National Restaurant Association gathering, year after year.  Mostly, it was for the learning.  Lot’s of learning.

Even today, 15 years later, as the CEO of MonkeyMedia Software and the Founder of the MMS Catering Institute, I still go for the learning.

There are so many events to choose from in just 5 short days.  One of my favourites is the Celebration of Technology at Zed 451 on Sunday night, May 19.  I’d recommend you attend if you are in Chicago.  You can register here.

But today, it’s become more than just learning for me.  As our organization works with thousands of restaurant operators, day in and day out, all focused on their catering operations.  We owe it to our community to reach high and be the best that we can be.  A never ending commitment to make ourselves better.  We can only do that by taking part in community based activities.  We need the feedback, validation and the passion of others.

Well, over the years, you end up making great friends.  Real friends.  Nice people working in an amazing industry.  I enjoy circling back, year after year.  I really go there for community…. to be part of something fantastic and make sure that I have a place to “hang my hat”.  Check out this video that Dawn Sweeney made, as the president and ceo of NRA.

I think she does a great job at setting her passion for her work in this video.

Well, there’s always alot to discuss.  Me?  I’ll look forward to meeting you on the show floor, or perhaps, if you have time, you might come by our booth where we are showcasing the services of the MMS Catering Institute and MonkeyMedia Software.  Booth #6878.

Hope to see you there!

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