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Message From Chairman

Steve MaraWelcome to the official website of the Rhode Island Hospitality Association. It is a great honor to serve as your 2010 Chairman, working with an outstanding organization filled with some of the best businesses in Rhode Island. Although I have enjoyed my seat on RIHA’s Board of Directors for several years, it is definitely a source of pride to now lead such a successful organization.

As I embark on this new position, I am thrilled to put the economic turmoil of 2009 behind us. While many agree that the worst of our country’s recession could be in the past, I know it will be another challenging year for our industry. As your Chairman, I can promise you that the Board and I are up for that challenge.

Unfortunately, it often takes a crisis to bring people together. Last year, that was very much the case and our membership not only weathered the storm, but battened down the hatches to come together and fight another day. I’m proud to report that our membership actually increased last year. I look forward to the continued growth of our membership and our industry throughout this year.

Our primary focus remains on strengthening Rhode Island’s hospitality industry in terms of job growth and cost-saving measures. Our lobbying efforts, training programs, community partnerships and energy buying programs are all keys to our success. I also would like to stress the importance of RIHA’s mantra of the ‘Four Cs,’ Cooperation, Collaboration, Communication, and Connection. Remember, there is greater strength in numbers than alone, and we have myriad obstacles and challenges to face this year in order to keep our industry as one of the strongest and most successful in the State.

I encourage your feedback, and please email me with any questions or comments.

All My Best,
Steve Mara
Chairperson-RIHA Board of Directors
Marra Restaurant Group

Rhode Island Hospitality and Tourism Association