Tony Roma's Donates Sales of Red Crosses to Help Victims of Hurricane Katrina

Business Wire, Sept 9, 2005

DALLAS -- Romacorp Inc., the parent company of Tony Roma's restaurants, announced today that all U.S. company and franchise restaurants will hold a fundraising drive to collect monetary donations for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Tony Roma's will sell "Red Crosses" for $1 and donate all proceeds to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. Romacorp will also make a matching gift based on total dollars contributed.

"We know first hand how devastating a hurricane can be to a market's economy and its residents. Last year our Florida restaurants were on the receiving end of a lot of people's generosity, and now it is our turn to give something back," said Romacorp CEO and President David Head. "With Tony Roma's history tied so closely to the community, we want to do our part. By contributing to the American Red Cross we know the monies donated will be put to good use."

Tony Roma's will encourage individuals and families across the United States to purchase a "Red Cross" for $1 or any amount above that at any Tony Roma's restaurant between Sept. 19 and Oct. 23. Patrons will have the opportunity to personalize each cross and place it on a dedicated wall of the restaurant. Tony Roma's will donate 100 percent of the proceeds and make a matching contribution to the American Red Cross Hurricane Disaster Relief fund.

Romacorp is the operator and franchisor of Tony Roma's restaurants, the world's largest casual dining concept specializing in ribs. Romacorp currently operates 29 restaurants and, through its subsidiary companies, franchises 217 restaurants in 28 states and 27 countries and territories. The first Tony Roma's restaurant opened 32 years ago in North Miami, Fla. and today the concept includes restaurant operations that span six continents.