Conference offers innovative ideas in lodging Published Nov. 18, 2010 By Erin Tindell Air Force Personnel, Service and Manpower Public Affairs SAN ANTONIO -- The annual Air Force Lodging Managers' Conference held in New York Nov. 13-16 offered Air Force lodging officials a chance to observe the latest developments within their industry and consider how to incorporate those advances in current operations and efforts already under way. The conference was held in conjunction with the International Hotel/Motel and Restaurant Show. Participants received training from Air Force Services Agency officials and attended various seminars offered by the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institution with other industry professionals. "The seminars allow lodging managers to embrace new ideas and learn innovative approaches that can be integrated into their operations," said Col. Pat Dunn, AFSVA director of operations. "The ultimate and intended benefactor is the Air Force Inns customer." The Air Force Innkeeper Award was also presented during the conference to recognize installation lodging operations that provide the most outstanding lodging and customer service to Air Force travelers. Wright-Patterson Inns at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the large category winner while Southern Pines Inn at Seymour Johnson AFB, N.C., is the small category winner. Additionally, two lodging team members received the Air Force Innkeeper Travelers' Award for exemplifying the highest standards of professionalism, customer service and job knowledge. They are Staff Sgt. Keyonna Creecy from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C., and Karen Golombeski from Royal Air Force Mildenhall, United Kingdom. Air Force lodging officials said they continue to mirror industry standards and efficiencies to ensure Airmen receive quality care and service when traveling. "Air Force Inns are standardizing furnishings, technology and logistical processes similar to industry leaders such as Marriott and Holiday Inn," Colonel Dunn said. "Additionally, we're on pace to complete upgrades for high-speed Internet and Wi-Fi connections in all lodging facilities by April 2011." Lodging officials are also implementing a telecommunications upgrade that will provide Air Force Inns with an entertainment and Internet access package. The upgrade was successfully launched at the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo., Little Rock AFB, Ark., and Peterson AFB, Colo. Lodging officials are also doing their part to help produce a "greener" Air Force. "We have researched 'green' mattresses, pillows, linens and bath products that meet Air Force Inns standards," Colonel Dunn said. "Plans are to field test some products at select locations and re-work our current standards to make these products available for Air Force lodging operations worldwide." For more information about Air Force Inns, visit www.dodlodging.net or www.usafservices.com.