FRLA

Volusia - Legislative Recap, Hurricane Preparedness, and County Updates
2026-04-01 08:00 - 10:00 (America/New_York) | Daytona Beach Racing & Card Club, 960 S Williamson Avenue, Daytona Beach, 32114, United States
Join the FRLA Volusia Chapter for an informative session featuring industry and public safety leaders on April 1, 2026, at the Daytona Beach Racing & Card Club. The event will include an overview of the 2026 Florida legislative session and key takeaways for industry professionals. We will also hear from local officials on tourism and economic initiatives, hurricane preparedness, and receive insights into the new rip current simulator designed to strengthen ocean safety education.

Featured Speakers:

Samantha Padgett, Vice President of Government Relations and General Counsel, FRLA
Matt Reinhart, Vice Chair, Volusia County Council (District 2)
Clint Mecham, Director of Emergency Management, Volusia County
Randa Matusiak, Director of Public Protection, Volusia County

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from experts on policy, emergency management, and public safety innovations!
PLUS: 🎉 iPad Giveaway! 1 for $10 or 3 for $20 – Join the FRLA Volusia Chapter by March 27 and receive 1 FREE raffle ticket!
Event Details:
Wednesday, April 1, 2026
8:00AM-9:00AM Breakfast & Networking
9:00AM-10:00AM Program
Daytona Beach Racing & Card Club
960 S Williamson Ave Daytona Beach, FL

RSVP Today!

Spring Board Meeting
2026-04-06 - 2026-04-08 | The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, 4750 Amelia Island Pkwy, Fernandina Beach, FL, 32034, United States
APRIL 6-8, 2026
THE RITZ-CARLTON, AMELIA ISLAND,FL.
FRLA board members, chapter presidents and representatives, past State chairmen and chairwomen, and at-large directors from large and small national restaurant and hotel chains and top independents gather for committee meetings, legislative updates, and panel discussions.
REGISTRATION

ACCOMODATIONS
The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, FL.
4750 Amelia Island Pkwy, Amelia Island, FL. 32034
*Room block closed, Friday March 20th. Questions? Please contact Agholston@frla.devlara.com.
AGENDA
ACCESS FULL MEETING AGENDA HERE
QUESTIONS? CONTACT:
Ashley Gholston, Director of Industry Relations & Corporate Events- agholston@frla.devlara.com
Ashley Jackson, Director of Membership Marketing- ajackson@frla.devlara.com

Palm Beach - Hospitality Networking Social
2026-04-15 17:00 - 19:00 | Cultural Council for Palm Beach County, 601 Lake Ave, Lake Worth, FL, 33460, United States
Join the FRLA Palm Beach Chapter on April 15, 2026, at the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County. Enjoy Happy Hour and Hors d’oeuvres! A fun industry networking opportunity you don’t want to miss! Be sure to bring your business card for two free drinks and light bites. Raffle prizes are also in store!
Wednesday, April 15, 2026
5:00-7:00 p.m.
The Cultural Council for Palm Beach County
601 Lake Avenue
Lake Worth Beach, FL 33460
Event Registration:
FRLA Members: $25
Future Members: $35

Register Now!
Advanced Registration is required by April 10, 2026!

Sponsored by:

Broward - Hospitality Connect
2026-04-15 17:30 - 19:30 | The Tower Club, 100 SE Third Ave, One Financial Plaza, Regions Bank Bldg, 28th Floor, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33394, United States
Join the FRLA Broward Chapter on April 15th for Hospitality Connect! Mix and mingle with hospitality leaders. Expand your network within the industry. Register today and join us at the Tower Club Fort Lauderdale from 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Space is limited!
Event Cost:
Members: $20
Future Members: $40
Register Now!
Tabletop: $150 (FRLA Broward Members Only)
Showcase your brand front and center: Purchase a tabletop to display your products, feature signage, share samples, and get your logo spotlighted in our event email blast. Price includes (1) admission. Limited spots available! Call Rozeta Mahboubi at (954) 270-5814.

**SOLD OUT** Monroe - 4th Annual ROSE Awards
2026-04-16 | Hawks Cay Resort, 61 Hawks Cay Blvd, Duck Key, FL, 33050, United States
**This event has SOLD OUT**

4th Annual Monroe ROSE Awards
• April 16, 2026 •
Hawks Cay Resort

Join us for the 4th Annual FRLA Monroe ROSE Awards on April 16, 2026 at Hawks Cay Resort! The ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence) Awards recognizes Monroe County Florida front line hospitality employees who demonstrate excellent customer service. These industry champions showcase the region’s commitment to creating an extraordinary visitor experience.

Nominations Have Closed!
Nomination Deadline: March 9, 2026

Individuals must be front-line employees (no management, director, or supervisor positions)
Open to all tourism related businesses in Monroe County
Individuals must work at their place of business for at least 90 days from the nomination deadline.
Individuals should exemplify the following characteristics: dependable, enthusiastic, serve as role models to peers, and committed to customers.
Nominees must be present at the ROSE awards to win.

Central Florida - From Google to Generative: The New Era of Customer Discovery
2026-04-16 11:30 - 13:00 | Orlando World Center Marriott, 8701 World Center Dr, Orlando, FL, United States
Join the FRLA Central Florida Chapter on April 16th for an informative session on utilizing AI within your hospitality business!
Step into the next era of customer discovery with a high-impact seminar built for Central Florida’s hospitality leaders. This session breaks down how search is shifting from “let me Google that” to AI-generated answers, and what that means for your business visibility, bookings, and brand authority. You will leave with practical strategies you can use now, not theory.
What we will cover:

From Google to Generative: Why traditional search is fading and how AI now controls what customers see and choose
How AI Sees Florida Hospitality: What generative engines understand (and misunderstand) about your business and how to influence it
How to Win at GEO (Generative Engine Optimization): Clear steps to position your brand as the answer, not just an option
Real Case Studies with Results: Travel Guide Challenge: Competing for AI visibility in destination content Battle of the Bios: How small wording changes impact AI trust and selection. Hidden Gems Project: How lesser-known venues can outperform big brands in generative results.

Event Details:
Thursday, April 16, 2026
11:30 – 12:00 Registration & Networking
12:00 – 1:00 Lunch & Presentation
Orlando World Center Marriott
8701 World Center Dr, Orlando, FL 32821
Register Now!
Registration deadline: April 12, 2026

Lee Chapter - April Luncheon
2026-04-21 11:30 - 13:30 | Lee County School District Offices, 2855 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL, 33966, United States
Join the members of the Lee County FRLA chapter as we highlight and recognize the work of Lee County high school culinary students and students from LARC. Learn about the certified training these students receive to be ready to walk into the workforce. We look forward to Latin inspired cuisine prepared by these same students while hearing about the latest and greatest accomplishments of the District and FRLA.
Speakers:

Jay Johnson – Lee FRLA Chapter President
Angela Katz – LARC Executive Director
Lee County School District Leaders

Event Pricing:
$30 – Members
$40 – Nonmembers
Register Now!
Registration Deadline: April 17, 2026 at 5 PM.

Treasure Coast - April Hospitality Networking Event
2026-04-23 17:00 - 19:00 | American Icon Brewery and Taproom, 1133 19th Pl, Vero Beach, FL, 32960, United States
Happy Hour & Hors d’oeuvres!
The FRLA Treasure Coast invites you to our April Hospitality Networking Event at American Icon Brewery on April 23rd! Grab a brew and make a friend or two – this is your chance to meet local professionals, share ideas, and grow your network in a laid-back atmosphere. Don’t miss out on the fun and opportunities — see you there!
Ready to mix, mingle, and make lasting connections with local industry professionals? Register Today!
Event Details:
Thursday, April 23rd, 2026
5:00-7:00 PM
American Icon Brewery
1133 19th Place
Vero Beach, FL 32960
Members: $25
Future Members: $40
Please Bring Your Business Card for Two Free Drinks (Beer/Wine) & Hors d’oeuvres.
Advanced registration required!
Click Here to Register
Registration Deadline: April 17, 2026

Sponsored By:

Suncoast - Annual Bowling Tournament
2026-04-28 | Bowlero Gulf Gate, 7221 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL, United States
Save the Date! Join the FRLA Suncoast Chapter on April 28th at Bowlero Gulf Gate for the annual bowling tournament!

Suncoast - 2nd Annual Taste & Toast
2026-05-02 17:00 - 22:00 | Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, 600 US-41, Palmetto, 34221, United States
Join us for the 2nd Annual Taste & Toast Gulf Coast — a flavorful celebration of food, drink, and hospitality that benefits our FRLA Suncoast Chapter Education Initiatives!
Saturday, May 2, 2026
Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa
5:00 PM – VIP; 6:00 PM General Admission

Enjoy an unforgettable day of premier food & drink:
• Tastings from top chefs & local eateries
• 20+ wines, brews, cocktails & mocktails
• Kentucky Derby bourbon tasting and live watch party
• Live entertainment, culinary & beverage awards, and exciting demos!
Community and professional judging!
Event Pricing:
$95 General Admission
$150 VIP
$1,000 Table of 8
Register Now!

Volusia - Travel & Tourism Meeting
2026-05-04 08:00 - 10:30 | Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach, 981 N Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, 32118, United States
Celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week with FRLA Volusia Chapter!
Tourism fuels Florida’s economy and drives our hospitality industry. Hear from regional tourism leaders about visitor trends, marketing strategies, and how your business can align with local campaigns to attract more guests in 2026. Learn how to connect with tourism agencies, leverage resources, and capitalize on the momentum to keep your hotels, restaurants, and attractions thriving.
Panelists:
Cyrus Callum – Daytona Beach International Airport
Lori Campbell Baker – Daytona Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Lynn Flanders – Ocean Center
Georgia Turner – West Volusia Tourism Visitor Center
Debbie Meihls – Visit NSB
Janet Kersey – Daytona Beach Regional Chamber
Matt Reinhart – Volusia County
Brenna Dacks – Visit Florida
Event Details:
Monday, May 4, 2026
Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
981 N Atlantic Avenue Daytona Beach, FL 32118
Event Schedule:
8:00 AM – Breakfast
9:00 AM – 10:30AM Program
Tickets:
Individual Tickets: $45
Tables: $350
Register Now!

Broward - Excellence in Education Breakfast
2026-05-04 08:30 - 10:00 | Renaissance Ft. Lauderdale West, 1230 South Pine Island Road, Plantation, FL, 33324, United States
Join the FRLA Broward Chapter as we celebrate education in hospitality, presenting student scholarships and teacher awards in support of Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary programs. For over a decade, our annual fundraisers and events have been instrumental in providing scholarships, curriculum, textbooks, supplies and much more. This year we continue to offer our scholarship dollars to college and university levels of culinary and hospitality students. We believe this will accelerate aspiring graduates to step into the industry in Broward County.
Event Details:
Monday, May 4, 2026
8:30 – 10:00 AM
Renaissance Fort Lauderdale West Hotel
1230 S. Pine Island Road, Plantation, FL
Event Tickets:
Members: $55
Future Members: $75
Register Now!
Sponsorships Are Available!
Elevate your brand visibility, promote your business while supporting future industry leader or simply recruit students who strive to become future industry employees, managers, and owners.
Presenting Sponsor: $5,000
Scholarship Sponsor: $2,000
Teacher Award Sponsor: $1,000
Bronze Sponsor: $500

Pinellas & Hillsborough - 3rd Annual Reverse Hotel & Restaurant Showcase
2026-05-06 | Marriott St. Petersburg Clearwater, 12600 Roosevelt Blvd, St. Petersburg, FL, 33716, United States
Save the Date! Join the FRLA Pinellas and Hillsborough Chapter on May 6th for the 3rd Annual Reverse Hotel & Restaurant Showcase!

Northeast Florida - 2026 Tourism Outlook
2026-05-07 09:00 - 10:30 | Delta Hotels by Marriott Jacksonville Deerwood, 4700 Salisbury Road, Jacksonville, 32256, United States
2026 Tourism Outlook: What’s Ahead for Northeast Florida Tourism
Tourism remains one of Florida’s most powerful economic drivers. Celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week with FRLA at the Northeast Florida Tourism Outlook Panel. Join us on May 7, 2026, and hear from regional tourism leaders on the economic outlook for travel, visitor trends, and the marketing strategies driving leisure, business, and group travel to Northeast Florida in 2026. Learn how visitors are choosing Northeast Florida and what your hospitality business can do to align with current campaigns and initiatives to attract more guests. The discussion will also highlight ways hospitality partners can connect with the local tourism agencies, leverage valuable resources, and capitalize on tourism momentum in the year ahead.
Event Details:
Thursday, May 7, 2026
9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Delta Hotels by Marriott Jacksonville Deerwood
4700 Salisbury Road
Jacksonville, FL 32256
Panelists:
• Paul Beirnes, Amelia Island Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Michael Corrigan, Visit Jacksonville
• Susan Phillips, St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches Visitors & Convention Bureau
Moderator:
Brenna Dacks, VISIT FLORIDA

For Florida’s hospitality industry, tourism is the lifeblood of our success. Staying ahead of travel trends and understanding where visitors are coming from is key to keeping our hotels, restaurants, and attractions thriving. Come gain valuable insight into the economic and tourism trends shaping our region in 2026 and learn how we can work together to keep Northeast Florida a top destination for visitors. RSVP Today!

FREE to Register. Click Here to Sign Up!

Sponsored by:

Palm Beach - Networking Hospitality Social for a Cause
2026-05-14 17:00 - 19:00 | Els for Autism Foundation, 18370 Limestone Creek Road, Jupiter, FL, 33458, United States
Join the FRLA Palm Beach Chapter for a special evening of networking for a cause! Experience the powerful work Els for Autism is doing and how the hospitality industry can benefit. Expand your network and make connections with top industry leaders from the hospitality community. Please Bring Your Business Card for Two Free Drinks & Hors d’oeuvres. There will be raffle prizes!
Event Details:
Thursday, May 14, 2026
5:00-7:00 p.m.
Els for Autism
18370 Limestone Creek Road
Jupiter, FL 22458
FRLA Members: $25/Future Members $35/Future Members

Click Here to Register!
Advanced Registration is required! Registration deadline, Friday, May 8, 2026
For questions call Jodi Cross, 561-410-0035 or jcross@frla.devlara.com

Sponsored by:

Space Coast - Annual Bowling Tournament
2026-05-19 | Bowlero Melbourne, 1099 N Wickham Road, Melbourn, 32935, United States
Save the Date!
Join the FRLA Space Coast Chapter for the annual Bowling Tournament at Bowlero Melbourne on May 19, 2026.
More details to come!

Pinellas - Annual Bowling Tournament
2026-05-21 14:30 - 17:00 | Liberty Lanes, 11401 Starkey Road, Largo, FL, 33773, United States
Get ready to roll into an unforgettable afternoon because one of our most popular events is back and better than ever! Join the FRLA’s Pinellas Chapter for the 5th Annual Bowling Tournament, where the fun is “Strikingly” good! This is the perfect opportunity for team building while mingling with industry peers and colleagues. Indulge with good food, refreshing beverages and get your hands on some fabulous raffle prizes. Let’s celebrate the industry and and strike up some fun because there’s absolutely no time to “SPARE”!
Event Details:
Thursday, May 21, 2026
2:30 PM – Team Check in
3:00 – 5:00 PM – Tournament Play
Liberty Lanes, 114014 Starkey Road Largo, FL
Tournament Cost:
Team of Five: $180
Single Bowler: $55
Spectator: $25
Registration Includes:

Bowling registration includes shoe rental, ball, two games,
unlimited soda and a large pizza for each team
One domestic beer per player
Awards- 1st and 2nd Place, Team Spirit and Best Team Attire
Raffles throughout the afternoon

Register Now!
Deadline: May 18, 2026

Sponsorship Opportunities:
Event & Tournament T-Shirt Sponsor: $750
Opening welcome at event, prominent logo on tournament t- shirt, display signage with corporate logo, plus five tournament bowlers.
Lane Sponsor: $350
LED display signage at sponsored lane, corporate logo on tournament t-shirt, plus one team of five tournament bowlers.
RAFFLE ITEM DONATIONS ARE APPRECIATED!

Hillsborough - A Conversation & Luncheon with Santiago Corrada
2026-06-03
Save the Date!
A Conversation & Luncheon with Visit Tampa Bay CEO, Santiago Corrada
June 3, 2026

More details coming soon!

Treasure Coast - Hospitality Tradeshow & Networking Mixer
2026-06-04 17:00 - 19:00 | Conchy Joe’s Seafood, 3945 NE Indian River Drive, Jensen Beach, 34957, United States
Hospitality Tradeshow & Networking Mixer
Maximize Your Brand Visibility!
View Flyer
Join the FRLA Treasure Coast Chapter on June 4th for the Hospitality Tradeshow and Networking Mixer! Purchase a tabletop to showcase sample products, connect with members, and display signage. (Limited number of tables available)
Enjoy Happy Hour and a buffet at Conchy Joe’s Seafood. You don’t want to miss this unique opportunity to expand your network and grow your brand’s exposure! Register today as space is limited!
Event Tickets (attendance only):
Members: $35
Future Members $45
Partners will have an opportunity to present products!
Tabletop Display:
$200
Call Jodi Cross at (561) 410 – 0035

Register Now
Advanced registration required! Deadline: May 29, 2026

Sponsored by:

Suncoast - 2nd Annual Reverse Hotel & Restaurant Showcase
2026-06-09 | Carlisle Inn, 3727 Bahia Vista Street, Sarasota, 34232, United States
Save the Date!
2nd Annual Reverse Hotel & Restaurant Showcase
Turning the Tables on Networking
June 9, 2026
Carlisle Inn

Palm Beach - Hospitality Networking Social
2026-06-11 17:00 - 19:00 | Voodoo Bayou, 11701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave., Suite 5095, Palm Beach Gardens, FL, 33410, United States
Join FRLA Palm Beach for happy hour & Hors d’oeuvres at our June Hospitality Networking Social! Enjoy a fun and relaxed evening, meet amazing people in the industry, exchange ideas, and build connections—all in person. Whether you’re new or a pro, come hang out, share stories, and grow your network over some great conversation. Don’t miss out on making new friends and opportunities!
There will be raffle prizes! Bring your business card for two free drinks and hors d’oeuvres!
View Event Flyer
Event Details:
Thursday, June 11, 2026
5:00-7:00 p.m.
Voodoo Bayou | 11701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave. Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
Event Pricing:
FRLA Members: $25
Future Members: $35
Advanced Registration is required! Registration deadline: Friday, June 5, 2026

Register Now!

Sponsored by:

For questions call Jodi Cross, 561-410-0035 or jcross@frla.devlara.com

Pinellas/Hillsborough - Hospitality Forward: Solving Hospitality's Generational Puzzle
2026-06-22 08:30 - 22:30
More Details Coming Soon!!

Pinellas - 27th Annual Hospitality Golf Classic
2026-08-10 | The Vinoy Golf Club, 600 Snell Isle Boulevard, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Save the Date!
The 27th Annual FRLA Pinellas Hospitality Golf Classic
August 10, 2026
The Vinoy Resort and Golf Club

More details to follow!

Summit
2026-08-18 - 2026-08-20 | Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – Hollywood, FL, 1 Seminole Way, Davie, FL, 33314, United States
FRLA’s Summit is back for its 14th annual premier hospitality event, August 18-20, 2026 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL. Join Florida’s most influential hospitality professionals and top-level executives for this two-day event. Bringing you leading industry trends, best practices, top-notch speakers, and unparalleled networking, we’ve made sure there’s a seat for everyone at our table.
TICKETS
*Tickets on sale soon.
VIEW SOME OF THE 2025 SPEAKERS
Tim Tebow
2025 AGENDA
CLICK HERE TO VIEW AGENDA
ACCOMODATIONS
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
1 Seminole Way, Davie, FL 33314
CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ROOM
Room rate: $234/night plus taxes & fees
*Should you have any questions please contact Ashley Gholston, Events & Industry Relations Director, agholston@frla.devlara.com.

Property Maps: VIEW HERE
Dinner Reservations:
If you would like to dine on property please call in advance to Customer Care at 954-316-2900 to make reservations at Cipresso Italian, Council Oak Steaks and Seafood, and Kuro Japanese. Please tell the agent that you are with FRLA. Here is a link to available dining options if you would like to preview menus.

MARKETING & ALLIED MEMBER COUNCIL
CLICK HERE to view the Marketing & Allied Member Council. This event would not be possible without the input and guidance from our council. THANK YOU for investing your time and for your continued support of the FRLA! If you have interest in joining the Marketing & Allied Member Council contact Ashley Jackson.
2025 HIGHLIGHT VIDEO

Suncoast 4th Annual ROSE Awards
2026-08-27 | The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr, Sarasota, FL, 34236
SAVE THE DATE
The 4th Annual Suncoast ROSE Awards
August 27, 2026
The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota

The 4th Annual Suncoast ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence) Awards will celebrate the remarkable efforts of frontline hospitality professionals who consistently exceed expectations in delivering exceptional service. These individuals truly epitomize the unwavering commitment of the county to curate unforgettable experiences for each and every visitor. We cordially invite you to be a part of this prestigious event as we pay tribute to these outstanding champions who are shaping the landscape of hospitality with their dedication and passion.
For sponsorship or additional information, please contact FRLA Regional Director Dannette Lynch
727-642-3404 or dannette@frla.devlara.com

FRLA Pinellas ROSE Awards - SAVE THE DATE
2026-09-03 17:30 - 20:30 | Sandpearl Resort, 500 Mandaly Ave, Clearwater Beach, FL, 33767
SAVE THE DATE
The 7th Annual Pinellas ROSE Awards
September 3, 2026
Sandpearl Resort Clearwater Beach

The7th Annual Pinellas ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence) Awards will celebrate the remarkable efforts of frontline hospitality professionals who consistently exceed expectations in delivering exceptional service. These individuals truly epitomize the unwavering commitment of the county to curate unforgettable experiences for each and every visitor. We cordially invite you to be a part of this prestigious event as we pay tribute to these outstanding champions who are shaping the landscape of hospitality with their dedication and passion.
For sponsorship or additional information, please contact FRLA Regional Director Dannette Lynch
727-642-3404 or dannette@frla.devlara.com

Hillsborough 9th Annual Sporting Clay Tournament
2026-09-14 | Tampa Bay Sporting Clays, 10514 Ehren Cutoff, Land O Lakes, FL, 34639, United States
Save the Date! The Hillsborough Chapter will host the 9th Annual Sporting Clay Tournament on September 14, 2026, at Tampa Bay Sporting Clays.

Space Coast - 6th Annual ROSE Awards
2026-09-16 | Courtyard by Marriott Cocoa Beach, 3435 Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL, 32931, United States
Save the Date!
6th Annual Space Coast ROSE Awards
September 16, 2026
Courtyard by Marriott Cocoa Beach

More info coming soon!

Northwest FL - Inaugural ROSE Awards
2026-09-16 18:00 - 21:00 | The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa, 200 Henderson Resort Way, Destin, FL, 32541, United States
Details on nomination process, ticket purchases, and sponsorship opportunities coming soon!!

Suncoast - Annual Pull for Hospitality
2026-09-21 | Knight’s Trail Range, 3435 Rustic Rd, Nokomis, 34275, United States
Save the date!! The FRLA Suncoast Chapter will host the annual Pull for Hospitality sporting clay tournament on September 21st at Knight’s Trail Range.

For sponsorship and registration information, contact Dannette Lynch at (727) 642-3404 or dannette@frla.devlara.com.
