Welcome to our July edition of the Massachusetts Asian Restaurant Association newsletter! We're excited to bring you a selection of opportunities and events designed to inspire, educate, and connect. Inside this issue, you'll find exclusive information on upcoming events, details on grant opportunities that could support your business, and much more! |
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We are excited to announce the upcoming MARA Annual GALA to be held on September 21, 2025. This year, we have a brand new theme featuring "Asian Food Festival" with family driven, kid friendly activities. We want to not only bring together the Asian restaurants and service providers, but also families in the Asian food loving community. Looking to have a fun time for all. Additional GALA features include: - Guest Speakers: As customary, we will be inviting guest speakers to share their insight, which heightens our relevance and always anchors our event solidly in the tide of time.
- Food Vendors: We are calling on Asian restaurants to partake in our event. Provide some easy-to-handle foods, nonetheless tasty, and get exposure for your businesses. More importantly, catch the "Chi" sprouted by this event and ride the wave of growth. For more information on having a food stall, please contact: info@ma-ara.org; Tel:774-315-0133
- Sponsor Booths: We invite our sponsors to join us in the event with a booth. It's a great opportunity to introduce your service and products to the restaurant owners and attract new customers. Enjoy promotional venues including the MARA website, the program book, and more, as prescribed. For more information about gala sponsorship and booth, please contact: info@ma-ara.org; Tel:774-315-0133
- Performances: Carefully selected performances will add to the celebratory spectacularity.
- Last but not least, the Taste of Asia Photo Contest will have its award ceremony at this event. There will be prizes, giveaways and a lot of fun.
Stay tuned to more updates on the GALA in the newsletters to come. |
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The Taste of Asia Photo Contest completed its collection phase at end of June, 2025. We have received about 200 photo entries, and there are some really amazing shots. Onto the judging phase. The judges will probably have a hard time deciding the rankings with so many brilliant shots. With great anticipation, let's stay tuned for the final reveal. With announcing the Annual GALA of MARA (9/21/2025), the award ceremony is slated to take place on the same day on the GALA stage at the event. There's so much to look forward to. Be there or be square. |
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Dear restaurant owners and business providers, MARA is devoted to be the backbone of the Asian restaurant community and maintain a vibrant platform for Asian restaurants and business/service providers alike. We support our members with information on fund-sourcing, policy interpretation, networking opportunities and public advocacy, to name a few. In today's fast changing environment, MARA will be your ally, and you will never have to face challenges alone. |
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A Note about the Federal Tax Exemption or “No Tax on Tips” Law |
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All Massachusetts laws related to the service rate, minimum wage, tip pooling and employer’s record-keeping obligations related to tips have not changed. Employers in Massachusetts must continue to ensure that only eligible employees participate in a tip pool and that workers who are receiving the service rate are paid at least minimum wage for all time worked. For more information, please visit the Massachusetts Attorney General’s website below. |
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MARA COLLABORATION WITH POTENCIA |
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MARA has partnered with Potencia to offer affordable, one-on-one English tutoring sessions tailored for adult immigrants. These 10-week online programs provide personalized learning, real-life conversation practice, and flexible schedules. At just $5 per session ($50 for 10 sessions), participants receive 1-hour individual lessons with an additional discount available for MARA members. Interested individuals can apply online below or text (617) 580-0176 for more details. Don’t miss this opportunity to improve English skills in a supportive, affordable environment! |
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New Risk Management Training From MRA |
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Exclusively for MRA Members, Hospitality Insurance Group now offers two new risk management training programs that help you: - Save on Insurance Up to 5% off liquor liability and 25% off Assault & Battery coverage.
- Retain Staff Training builds engagement and loyalty—reducing turnover.
- Boost Safety Create a safer environment for staff and guests.
Training Options: Live – 90-Minute Session covering de-escalation, drink safety, ID checks & emergencies, with VIP Safety Strategies. Online – 24/7 Access for restaurants, bars & taverns, with Home of Training. |
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Grant & Program Opportunities |
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(Rolling Deadline) Amber Grant - Women's Net gives away at least $30,000 every month in Amber Grant money. In recognition of the diversity of businesses owned by women, they've also expanded their grant-giving to include Marketing Grants, Business Category Grants, as well as two $25,000 Year End Grants. |
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Want to be featured on our monthly member series? fill ouT our form below |
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Founded in 2018, Massachusetts Asian Restaurant Association (MARA) is a non-profit corporation registered at Commonwealth of Massachusetts. It formed a partnership with Massachusetts Restaurant Association (MRA) in 2020. MARA provides Asian restaurant businesses the resources and guidance needed to advance in the industry. MARA is a platform connecting Asian restaurant members with professional service providers as well as relevant governmental entities to enhance the communication collaboration and mutual benefits. Visit ma-ara.org to join or learn more. |
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948 Broadway
Saugus, MA 01906, United States |
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