Dear Members and Friends of Clefs d’Or,

What a pleasure to extend a warm welcome to the 59th International congress in London as your new president. On a personal level, being Canadian, there is no country in the world where I would have wanted to start my duties as your International President. 1976 was the year when Canada was accepted as the 17th member country and that was thanks to Great Britain who sponsored us. I feel a daughter of Great Britain for this and I come to honor the society which has fathered us.

My first words of immense gratitude will be addressed to President Crowdy, Paul Still, Simon Thomas, Madeleine Calon, among others which are leading the troops for success and already the numbers have been achieved in presence.

As we embark on another week of education, this cordial gathering is rich of networking friendship and passion. Our goal as we gather for another congress is to meet concierges within our chain of hotels and network with colleagues who may assist us in cities we may not have any properties. It is with great pride I reach out to all of you, as it is the passion and friendship with which we conduct ourselves that allows us to manage our relationships and service our guests. Our dedication to maintaining the personal warmth in our service is the key to our success and is what allows us to build loyalty and trust with our guests.

The educational is bridged to Toronto, and we shall see again our dynamic Gerald Parent facilitate the event with Roberta Nedry from Hospitality Excellence. Our long time partners American Express, IHT, Chabé Limousines will be among us and will support us one more time. Another top hotelier, Mr. David Webster, will be our key note speaker and another panel of the highest executives from our most important hotel groups will honor us.

Past President from Japan, Etsuko Higashide is heading a special report on Women Concierges… we are very proud to announce the Charte of our Values which was presented in Vissoie and so much more to come.

The British section has been busy finalizing what promises to be another memorable congress which will mark our history. Their efforts and contributions will pave the path for the future heritage of Les Clefs d’Or in London and around the world.

Congratulations to all which made an effort to participate from every corner of the world. I know you shall return to your countries reenergized with the new friendships you will find and enriched by our educational which will mark the beginning of 2012 on the right pace.

Always yours in Service through Friendship
and Service through Excellence!!!

Virginia Casale
President UICH, Les Clefs d’Or
Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile, Canada