Every time that I go to an MRA event, I am reminded of the diversity and breadth of this industry. Such was the case at the "End of Summer Bash" that MRA Director Brad Dalbeck and his partner, Chris Damian, hosted on September 14th at their Tavern on the Water in Charlestown.

The setting was really perfect. It was a warm summer's night with the boats in the Marina highlighted by the setting sun illuminating the Zakim Bridge and the city skyline as a backdrop. The food, beverage and ambiance were enjoyed by all.

However, what really made the night were the people in attendance. We had members present who represented all aspects of our industry. There were restaurateurs, caterers, and many professionals from the supply side of our industry. I'm sure that everyone in attendance enjoyed themselves as I did. Thank you Brad and Chris for a wonderful evening!

While on the subject of member involvement, I want to thank all of our committee chairs and their members for the work that they continue to do.
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The payment of tipped employees has been the subject of much wage and hour litigation over the years. Major issues that have generated rounds of class action lawsuits in the past include tip pooling, overtime payments for tipped employees, and paid lunches for tipped employees. A pending class action lawsuit against a chain of casual steakhouses may signal the next round of class action litigation relating to tipped employees. Read more

Sharing valuable information with our members is a key component of the MRA's services. From state and federal regulations, to current trends and fads, the MRA is here to give you the information you need to help run your operation at its optimum level of success.

Recently, the MRA had the opportunity to connect with a representative of the Mass-achusetts Department of Public Health to review some of the pitfalls, hazards, violations and misconceptions restaurateurs often encounter and how to avoid them. Read more

Over the past year, this space has been used to help you find ways to "Green Up" your restaurant. Going green can save you money and help build support for your business among your employees and patrons.

It takes a team effort to be successful in the restaurant industry, and using this same team approach in dealing with issues relative to sustainability and the environment can make it happen in your restaurant. Read more

Participate in the National Restaurant Association (NRA) Restaurant Industry Tracking Survey, and receive exclusive access to benchmarks for sales volume, traffic, and many other economic indicators for Massachusetts' restaurants. This is your chance to find out how the foodservice industry is currently performing in Massachusetts. The NRA Restaurant Industry Tracking Survey only takes a few minutes to complete online.
CLICK HERE to Participate in the NRA Survey