FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 22, 2024
Contact: Megan Gamble ▪ 916.832.1884 ▪ mgamble@calrest.org

SACRAMENTO, CA – The California Restaurant Association is kicking off an education campaign with Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen (D – Elk Grove) and her favorite district restaurant, Chason’s Crab Stadium to showcase everything restaurants bring to the communities they serve beyond great food and experiences.

“We are proud to represent restaurants of all sizes when we advocate on their behalf in the legislature, but the bulk of our members are small mom-and-pops that take the hardest hits when costly policies are passed,” said Jot Condie, CRA President + CEO. 

“That’s why we are partnering with lawmakers and their favorite restaurants to spotlight the incredible benefits even small restaurants have in their communities.” 

“As a legislator and someone who spent a decade serving the community, I know how important it is for families to have a space where they can celebrate special moments. I recognize these small businesses play a special role in the community,” said Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen. “Chason’s Crab Stadium is one of those family-owned businesses where the staff makes everyone feel at home and ensures that every celebration is memorable.” 

More than Just Statistics – Restaurants Invest in Lives 

• We’re diverse: 60 percent of California restaurants are owned by women and people of color 
• We’re hiring: restaurants sustain nearly 1.4 million jobs in California, many are first-time workers or those that need a second chance 
• We’re supporting local programs: local restaurants generate an estimated $ 8 billion in local tax revenues that go towards schools, infrastructure, public safety, and emergency services 

Each participating restaurant has received a free annual CRA membership that includes many tools and resources to help them continue to thrive and make a difference in the communities they serve. 

TV/Radio outlets: the videos are available upon request to use in your segments 

Learn more about how restaurants are making a difference in their communities and watch all four videos with lawmakers here: https://www.calrest.org/restaurant-stories-district  

About the CRA: The California Restaurant Association provides ultimate access to the resources and support that neighborhood restaurants need to lead thriving businesses while serving as conscientious, contributing members of an unparalleled industry. California is home to eating and drinking places that ring up more than $100 billion in sales and employ nearly 1.4 million workers, making restaurants an indisputable driving force in the state’s economy.