Tom Ferdinandi named chairman of the California Restaurant Association

(SACRAMENTO, September 1, 2010) – The California Restaurant Association is pleased to announce the selection of Tom Ferdinandi as Chairman of the Association’s Board of Directors, succeeding outgoing Chairman Russ Bendel. Tom Ferdinandi is executive vice president and chief operations officer of Fresno-based Milano Restaurant International Corp. where he oversees the operations for 68 restaurant units throughout California’s Central San Joaquin Valley.

“Ferdinandi brings a great deal of knowledge about this industry and this organization to the Chairmanship,” said Jot Condie, president and CEO of the California Restaurant Association. “Given the political and economic challenges facing our industry, Tom will provide invaluable leadership over the coming year.”

Ferdinandi joined Milano Restaurants in 1995, specializing in operational analysis and training. Milano Restaurants develops, franchises and operates a variety of Italian-concept eateries in the fast-casual market segment, including Milano Me-n-Ed’s Pizzerias, Me-n-Ed’s Slices, Me-n-Ed’s Coney Island Grill, Me-n-Ed’s Victory Grill, Angelo & Vito’s Pizzerias, and Piazza del Pané restaurants.

“The California Restaurant Association is a tremendous advocate on behalf of its members and our industry,” said Ferdinandi. “As California emerges from this recession, restaurants have a critical role to play in creating jobs and strengthening communities throughout our state.”

Milano Restaurants has been recognized regionally and nationally for its commitment to product quality, customer service and community involvement. For more than a decade, Ferdinandi has been an active member of the California Restaurant Association. He most recently held the position of first vice chair on the CRA board of directors and is a past chairman of the CRA Educational Foundation.

In addition to his involvement with CRA, Ferdinandi also has served as chairman of the San Joaquin Memorial High School board of directors, a member of the Fresno Diocese Advisory Board of Education, a member of the St. Agnes Hospital Men’s Club Foundation and board member for the Tower District Marketing Committee.