When you live in the world of technology as I do, it is all about what is going on today and more importantly, what will happen tomorrow. Technology changes at a rapid pace. We need to always look ahead. As we celebrate 25 years as a company, we are going to look back. Jon Inge has done a masterful job of leading this charge for the History of Technology in the hotel industry. Carve out time, sit down and read through the whole thing. I promise you will smile and laugh at the stories of how it all started. With some input from John Burns and Bob Bennett as well as dozens of others (see page 47 for a list of those who contributed), many stories have been shared including the industry’s biggest disaster. Imagine a group of companies budgeting $55 million for a project and then having the project shelved after spending $125 million. Yes, the finger pointing and lawsuits immediately kicked in. There are some amazing stories that are shared in this issue. Read Jon’s opening on page 8 and you will be hooked. We shared this History of Technology with industry veterans and those who are newer to the industry, and both loved it. We learn from the past. Putting this issue together has truly been a labor of love.

This look back at history is just the start. There are many more stories that people will want to share. Add your comments, stories and experiences here. I know I have a few that I will be adding, so those of you who have known me for a long time, be prepared! For the many people who have encouraged us to do this, we can finally say – we did it! Now, let the stories begin!    -- Rich Siegel

EVERYONE HAS A STORY! WHAT'S YOURS?
Share it here.

The digital edition of this special edition is available now.
Please click on the magazine image above to access the digital version.

Watch the timelapse video from HITEC Toronto.