Chairman's Message 2024

David Smiley

Dear Members of the Rhode Island Hospitality Association,

As we step into a promising new year, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for the trust and confidence you have placed in me, and I am excited about the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for our dynamic industry.

In the ever-evolving landscape of the hospitality sector, staying informed about issues affecting our industry is crucial. RIHA is committed to maintaining a keen awareness of the challenges that impact our members, advocating for fair policies, and ensuring our industry's sustainability.

Our success lies in unity, and I am thrilled to announce our commitment to expanding our membership base. The more diverse and engaged our membership, the stronger our collective voice becomes. I encourage each of you to share the benefits of RIHA with your colleagues and encourage them to join our vibrant community.

We are fortunate to have the most motivated members in our industry. Your passion and dedication are the driving forces behind the success of RIHA. Together, we will continue to set new benchmarks for excellence and make significant contributions to Rhode Island's economy.

RIHA stands as a valuable resource for its members. Whether it's providing timely information, offering training programs, or facilitating networking opportunities, we are here to support you. The success of our members is at the core of our mission.

I extend my sincere appreciation to the dedicated RIHA team for their tireless efforts in providing resources and training to our members. Their commitment to excellence reflects in the success stories of our association, and I commend them for their outstanding work.

Our growth is a collective effort, and I urge each member to actively participate in our recruitment efforts. By bringing in new perspectives and talents, we strengthen RIHA and ensure a more dynamic and resilient industry.

Hospitality remains one of the leading economic factors in the state of Rhode Island. Our industry plays a pivotal role in shaping the economic landscape, and together, we will continue to contribute significantly to the prosperity of our great state.

RIHA will persist in its advocacy efforts, addressing legislative matters that directly impact our industry. Our collaborative initiatives will shape policies that foster a conducive environment for the growth of the hospitality sector.

I encourage each member to become more actively involved in our association meetings, particularly our "Kitchen Cabinet" sessions. Your insights and feedback are invaluable in steering the course of our organization.

Despite several legislative challenges, RIHA successfully maintained the tipped wage at $3.89. We navigated through discussions on short-term rentals, the Human Trafficking Prevention Act, the extension of "Alcohol to Go", and ongoing discussions on credit card fees.

As we embark on this exciting journey together, let us remember that our collective strength lies in unity, advocacy, and shared commitment. Together, we will overcome challenges and achieve new heights of success.

Thank you for your unwavering support.

Warm regards,
David Smiley
Chairman Rhode Island Hospitality Association