The Texas Restaurant Association, along with the restaurant industry, mourns the loss of Matt Martinez, Jr. Matt passed away March 13 at 7:30 p.m. "Matt Martinez was a pioneer in the restaurant industry and made invaluable contributions to advancing the business interests of restaurateurs throughout his career," said Gerard Cace, TRA president and owner of Johnny Cace's Seafood and Steakhouse, Longview. "His wife Estella and their family are in our thoughts and prayers. Matt will be missed by all of his dear friends in the restaurant community. ...Read More

April

May

The GHRA is proud to welcome U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison to a PAC on the Patio event on Wednesday, April 15, at Rainbow Lodge. ...Read More

The 2009 Spring Swing Golf Classic will be held Monday, April 27, at Kingwood Country Club. Join Hangman Corporation, Sysco Foods of Houston, Liquid Assets and many more members for a golf tournament that can’t be beat! Check out www.GHRA.com/Golf for more info.

Educational Outlet #4: Come sip and swirl with the GHRA and learn how to better sell wine to your guests. Tips on how to effectively describe wines to your diners. Tuesday, May 12, 3:30 – 5:00 pm at Central Market. ...Read More

Wednesday, May 27 – GHRA Annual President’s Dinner. Keep checking the Web site, and watch your inbox for more information.

Just for members – Houston Dynamo has offered GHRA members a great deal on season tickets.

Special My Table magazine offer for GHRA members - $15/year. ...Read More

Updates on the Political and Public Policy Front

TRA supports Governor Rick Perry’s recent decision to reject federal stimulus funds that come with strings attached. ...Read More

NRA revamps government affairs arm. ...Read More

Pro-labor groups ramp up unionization efforts as card-check support grows. ...Read More

President promises to bolster food safety. ...Read More

Dave & Busters wins tip pool case in California. ...Read More

Interesting News Articles for Restaurateurs

Alex Brennan-Martin announces re-opening of Brennan’s in the fall, just after the opening of two new concepts in the area. ...Read More

Open Table files for an IPO. ...Read More

Chef Roundtable: Boulud, Cardoz and Canora ...Read More

New restaurant strategy: Giveaways + Social Media ...Read More

Tilman Fertitta purchases 9% in McCormick & Schmick’s. ...Read More

Become a Founder's Club Sponsor

It’s hard to believe that we’re already approaching one of the biggest events of the year – the 2009 GHRA Spring Swing Golf Classic ! The event is a great reminder of how beneficial it is to be a part of our Founders’ Club. In return for helping us put together the many social, educational and political events we do each year, our Founders’ Club sponsors provide funding for our scholarships and community efforts. This elite group is continuously recognized at events, on our Web site and on print materials – talk about maximum exposure to a target audience! Founders’ Club sponsorships are a perfect way to support our Association and get recognized for all that you do! Let us know if you’re interested in getting more information today!

“If I want to be ignored I can stay at home with my family.” - Diner Outtake from Zagat.com

Every additional million dollars in restaurant sales generates an additional 33 jobs for the economy. – For more industry statistics, visit www.restaurant.org/research