November, 16, 2012
Dear NJRA Members:
I will forever remember my first day with the New Jersey Restaurant Association, the day Hurricane Sandy hit New Jersey! So much has happened in the past two weeks. I hope you, your families and businesses are recovering and returning to some sense of normalcy. In this short time into my tenure as President of the NJRA, I have been so amazed and proud of the generosity and resiliency of this industry. In spite of the devastation that hit our state and ruined communities, I witnessed examples of strength and unity. You have certainly shown this country the true meaning of hospitality.
This is an exciting time for the NJRA; new opportunities and a chance for the organization to grow. We are committed to providing strong leadership and benefits to help grow your businesses. Together, we must all look forward and come together as one voice. We have a long road ahead and the NJRA is committed to assisting you in however we can.
Last week, the NJRA held its Annual Meeting and Election of Officers and Directors. I am pleased to announce the following Officers for 2013:
Chairman
George Vlahos, Gusto Grill
Treasurer
Nancy Laird, Restaurant Serenade
Vice-Chair
Cory Wingerter, Princeton Innkeepers, Tiger’s Tale
Vice Chair
Wade Avondoglio, Perona Farms
Vice Chair
Jeanne Cretella, Liberty House, Stone House, Ryland Inn
Vice Chair
Ray Kucuk, New Black Horse Diner
Immediate Past Chair
Jack Koumbis, Assembly Steak House
An important reminder- please be sure to schedule your ServSafe Food and Alcohol classes. This is very important with the new mandate! Please call Alicia Papp at 609-599-3316 or email her at [email protected] to register employees or host a class. This is an excellent benefit to you and your business!
I certainly hope to meet many of you at “The Annual Gala, A Celebration of the Hospitality Industry” on Monday, November 26th. Tickets are still available up to November 23rd. Call Stacey Barone at 609-599-3316 or email her at [email protected] for more details.
My best wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!
Marilou Halvorsen
President
