Purpose:

Converse and develop relationships between ourselves, the industry, the MRA and our state lawmakers

It is not too early to remind you of the legislative reception that is to be held by the MRA at the 2005 Midwest Republican Leadership Conference on Mackinac Island this September.  The conference itself is from September 23rd through 25th.

Patti Ann Moskwa has graciously agreed to host the MRA legislative reception at The Yankee Rebel Tavern.  It will be held on Friday September 23.  While the actual starting time is still being figured out, it will start in the late afternoon around 4pm.

The event will feature wine, hors d'oeuvres and social conversation with Republican lawmakers from all over the state.  The event will be considerably different from our party at the conference in 2003.  This event will give you, as the leaders of Michigan's foodservice industry, to rub shoulders, develop new relationships and continue old relationships with Michigan's Republican lawmakers in a comfortable setting.  It will give you significant face time with them, and allow us a unique opportunity to showcase our importance to this state and its economy.

This biannual conference is very popular and draws thousands to Mackinac Island, which is great for our MRA member restaurants there.  The problem with the conference is that the hotels can fill up quickly!  So now is a perfect time to put the dates on your calendar and plan on attending.  Several hotels are able to accommodate you, including Mission Point Resort, Harbor View Hotel, Chippewa Hotel, Hotel Iroquois and the Island House.  Or drop Patti Ann a line to find out where to stay.

But don't wait too long.  People are beginning to reserve accommodation space on the island for the conference, so don't miss out!

If you have any questions, please contact Andy Deloney, Director, Public Affairs, at 800-968-9668 or adeloney@mramail.org