Chris James, business development director, LaTrelle's, has been named to The Greater Houston Restaurant Association (GHRA) board of directors for the 2012-2013 year. The slate of 38 individuals within the restaurant industry, including seven executive committee members, was approved by the restaurant association's membership during its annual meeting July 2, 2012.

The GHRA board of directors is committed to promoting the growth of the restaurant industry through education, public awareness and governmental affairs, according to Board President Reginald Coachman, Schlotzsky's regional director of franchise operations for the west region.

"We specifically recruited Chris James to serve on our board because he brings a much-needed perspective from the under-30 demographic," said Coachman. "Although he is youthful in age, he has long been involved in the Houston restaurant scene through his family's successful restaurant business. As the youngest member of our volunteer team, I know he will bring fresh ideas and unique contributions to our board during his three-year term."

The board takes active leadership roles by contributing to the Texas Restaurant Association (TRA) and political action committee supporting the TRA Education Foundation and being actively involved in GHRA events and initiatives.

James has been an active leader on the GHRA Government Affairs Committee for several years. "I have particularly enjoyed my experience with other GHRA members walking the Hill in Washington, D.C. and meeting with members of Congress to discuss issues impacting the restaurant industry," said James. "We want to have a voice in issues ranging from noise ordinances to minimum wage and the Affordable Healthcare Act."

The Greater Houston Restaurant Association (GHRA) celebrated 75 years of serving the Houston region in 2012 with a series of events and activities honoring the nearly 60,000 employees and 3,900 area restaurants who contribute to the success of Houston's dining industry on a daily basis.

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LaTrelle's has long had an active presence in the GHRA, a chapter of the Texas Restaurant Association, now Texas' largest local restaurant association. More information is available at www.ghra.com. For more than 25 years, ACDBE-certified LaTrelle's Management Corporation has owned and operated an impressive portfolio of top franchises in several of America's busiest cities and venues. Visit www.latrelles.com for more information.

Please email all media inquiries to: press@latrelles.com