Minerva Nadler of Nadler's Bakery & Deli, San Antonio, was named Grassroots Patriot of the Year by the National Restaurant Association (NRA). The NRA honored several restaurateurs for outstanding accomplishments in grassroots activism during its 2008 Public Affairs Conference in Washington, D.C., last month.

The association awarded two individuals the Grassroots Champion of the Year award: Rip Tosun of Rip's The Place for Ribs, Viro Beach, Fla.; and Bruce Wolf of 1951 West Restaurant, Green Bay, Wis. Along with Nadler, Andre Rochat, of Gastronomy Management Group, Las Vegas, also was recognized as Grassroots Patriot of the Year. The winners were chosen by a panel of state restaurant association representatives.

“These awards recognize their unique grassroots contributions and show the industry's appreciation for dedicating their time and efforts in a way that benefits all of us,” said Ned Monroe, vice president of political affairs for the association. “They are part of a large network of politically aware and involved restaurant leaders across the nation and serve as an inspiration to other industry professionals.”

Daniel Halpern, president and C.E.O. of Jackmont Hospitality, Atlanta, and chairman of the association's Government Affairs and Public Policy Committee, presented the grassroots leaders with the awards.

The association's press release stated the following regarding Nadler's contributions: Minerva Nadler always encourages others to speak out on the priority of restaurant industry issues, particularly in election years. She hosts candidates from both parties at her restaurant during campaign season, and volunteers her time to many local, state and federal races. Minerva has also served as a state delegate to the Republican National Convention and is a regular National Restaurant Association Public Affairs Conference and Texas Association conference attendee.