The term "Perfect Storm" crept into our lexicon after the publication of Sebastian Junger's book by the same name, and the subsequent movie adaptation. These days the term seems to arise with regularity in the business press as a metaphor to describe the combination of economic forces working against small enterprises, including (and perhaps particularly so) independent restaurateurs. Food costs are rising, consumer spending is down, and nanny government policy is burdening our industry with onerous immigration enforcement policies, higher federal and state minimum wage, and menu labeling laws, to name a few.

I suppose the best news (at least from an existential perspective), is that unlike the misfortunate crew of the sword fishing boat Andrea Gail, at the end of this economic perfect storm, most of us will still be living and breathing, though perhaps a little worse for wear.

I read the "Perfect Storm" and saw the movie, and, of course, was moved by this true-life tragic tale that affected Gloucester sword fishermen and their friends and family. I was also inspired by the heroics of the Coast Guard servicemen who ventured into perilous conditions to save their lives.

As we ride out this tempest, we might well ask, "Where is our Coast Guard? Who is looking out for the interests of the independent restaurateur?" If you've followed this column and this magazine for the last few years, you probably sense that I'm about to climb on my soapbox regarding the importance of the state restaurant associations. You're right.

The primary mission of most state restaurant associations is to represent the restaurant industry and its constituents before local lawmakers; including promoting law and policy that protect the industry, and fending off that which hurts operators. A couple weeks ago, I was having lunch with the executive director of my state's restaurant association, who mentioned, again, the biggest challenge facing these organizations -- growing membership to pay for these activities. Many restaurateurs do not support the state restaurant associations, thinking, "The association will do my bidding in the legislature whether or not I pay the annual dues."

When your boat is sinking offshore, the Coast Guard comes to your rescue whether or not you paid your taxes last year. Likewise, the legislative efforts of state restaurant associations support all operators, whether or not they paid their dues; however, unlike the Coast Guard, the associations rely on voluntary contributions. They cannot do their work, or survive, without your dues.

In this economy, it is tough to open your checkbook for one more expense that doesn't bring guests in the door and increase check averages. I think, however, the case for supporting your state association with your dues and involvement is money well spent, particularly in this economy.