Hillsborough/Pinellas - Hospitality Forward April Meeting
2025-04-28 08:30 - 10:30 (America/New_York) | Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, 2900 Bayport Dr, Tampa, FL, 34236, United States
AI for Hospitality Leaders – Navigating the Changing Landscape
Join the FRLA Hillsborough and Pinellas Chapters for the FIRST Hospitality Forward meeting – an exclusive tech empowerment event designed for hospitality leaders! Hospitality Forward is brought to you in collaboration with the Florida-Israel Business Accelerator. Our very first meeting will dive into the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence and its inevitable influence on the future of the hospitality industry.
Register today and join your industry colleagues on April 28th from 8:30 – 10:30 AM at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay for AI for Hospitality Leaders – Navigating the Changing Landscape.
Registration:
(Breakfast Included)
$40 – Single Event Registration
$99 – Register for All THREE Meetings
Register Now!
Upcoming Meetings:
• June 2025 – Customer Obsessed
– Learn how to create unforgettable customer experiences and drive growth.
• September 2025 – Hack-Proof Your World
– Learn how to protect your business from online threats.
View Event Flyer

Inquire About Sponsorships Opportunities!
Contact FRLA Regional Director, Dannette Lynch, at dannette@frla.org or 727-642-3404.

Hillsborough - 8th Annual Sporting Clay Event
2025-06-02 08:45 - 13:30 | Tampa Bay Sporting Clays, 10514 Ehren Cutoff, Land O Lakes, FL, 34639, United States
8th Annual Sporting Clay Tournament
June 2, 2025
Tampa Bay Sporting Clays

Get ready to lock and load for an unforgettable day of fun and networking at the FRLA Hillsborough 8th Annual Sporting Clay Event. Whether you’re a rookie or a sharpshooter, this is your chance to hit the bullseye on building connections and teamwork. This year’s event takes place during National Tourism Week, so let’s celebrate the industry and shoot for success. Gather your team and get ready – because at this event, we’re not just aiming for targets, we’re aiming for new friendships and opportunities! Ready, Aim, Network!
Event Details:
Monday, June 2, 2025
8:45 AM – 1:30 PM
Tampa Bay Sporting Clays
10514 Ehren Cutoff Land O’ Lakes
Schedule of Events:
8:45 – 9:30 AM Breakfast
9:00 AM Registration
9:15 AM Range Safety Briefing
9:45 AM Clay Shoot Begins
12:00 – 1:30 PM – Lunch, Awards, Raffles, & Beverages

Event Pricing:
Registration includes breakfast and awards luncheon provided by the Renaissance International Plaza Hotel
Team of Four $500 – (4) shooters, ammo, golf cart, and (1) gun per team
Individual Shooter $125 – (1) shooter, ammo, and gun (at shooting station)
Golf Cart $60 – (For individual shooters only) Course is ¾ mile to walk
Players Package $30 – (Purchase online or at check-in) Three raffle tickets and one mulligan

Register Now!
The registration and payment deadline is May 26, 2025, or earlier if the event sells out. Cancellations after the deadline will be invoiced.

Raffle item donations needed and appreciated!

Sponsorship Opportunities:
Presenting Sponsor: $1,500 – Company recognition on tournament signage, introduction at opening of event and luncheon, prominent logo placement on tournament t-shirt, choice of station to showcase your business and network with shooters, two teams of four and two golf carts.
Tournament T-Shirt Sponsor: $1,000 – Top placement of logo on tournament t-shirt, company recognition on signage display, one team of six and one golf cart.
Breakfast or Luncheon Sponsor: $750 – Welcome participants, company recognition on signage, logo on t-shirt, table display and one team of four.
Awards Celebration Sponsor: $500 each – Address participants, company recognition on signage, logo on t-shirt, table for distribution of materials and one shooter.
Station Sponsor: $150 – Showcase your business at a range station while networking with shooters.

Hillsborough/Pinellas - Hospitality Forward June Meeting
2025-06-10 08:30 - 10:30 | Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, 2900 Bayport Dr, Tampa, FL, 34236, United States
Customer Obsessed – How to Create Unforgettable Experiences and Drive Growth
Join the FRLA Hillsborough and Pinellas Chapters for the SECOND Hospitality Forward meeting – an exclusive tech empowerment event designed for hospitality leaders! Hospitality Forward is brought to you in collaboration with the Florida-Israel Business Accelerator. Our second meeting will uncover strategies and technologies that transform the entire customer journey, create loyalty, and generate growth.
Register today and join your industry colleagues on June 10th from 8:30 – 10:30 AM at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay for Customer Obsessed – How to Create Unforgettable Experiences and Drive Growth
Speakers:

Registration:
(Breakfast Included)
$40
Register Now!
Upcoming Meetings:
• September 2025 – Hack-Proof Your World
– Learn how to protect your business from online threats.
View Event Flyer

Inquire About Sponsorships Opportunities!
Contact FRLA Regional Director, Dannette Lynch, at dannette@frla.org or 727-642-3404.

Hillsborough/Pinellas - Hospitality Forward August Meeting
2025-08-05 08:30 - 10:30 | Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, 2900 Bayport Dr, Tampa, FL, 34236, United States
The Unseen Threat: Cyber Risks in Hospitality
Join the FRLA Hillsborough and Pinellas Chapters for the THIRD Hospitality Forward meeting – an exclusive tech empowerment event designed for hospitality leaders! Hospitality Forward is brought to you in collaboration with the Florida-Israel Business Accelerator. Our third meeting will expose the hidden dangers lurking in the digital landscape of the hospitality sector. Learn how to identify, mitigate, and respond to cyber threats that could jeopardize your business and reputation.
Secure your spot and your future. Register today and join your industry colleagues on August 5th from 8:30 – 10:30 AM at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay for The Unseen Threat: Cyber Risks in Hospitality.

Meet the Speakers:

Registration:
(Breakfast Included)
$40
Register Now!
If you registered for the whole series, you are all set!
View Event Flyer
Inquire About Sponsorships Opportunities!
Contact FRLA Regional Director, Dannette Lynch, at dannette@frla.org or 727-642-3404.

Pinellas & Hillsborough - Confetti Culture by James Ferguson
2025-09-17 08:30 - 10:30 | Marriott Tampa Airport, 4200 George J Bean Pkwy, Tampa, FL, 33607, United States
Join the FRLA Pinellas and Hillsborough Chapters for Confetti Culture presented by Best-selling Author & Keynote Speaker, James Ferguson! James is a visionary, employee engagement expert, culture coach, and author of bestseller The Confetti Culture Playbook: How to Boost Your Team’s Contribution & Impact!
He specializes in building cultures where employees feel seen, heard, and celebrated – every single day! With a proven record of energizing hospitality management teams, James puts the FUN back in the fundamentals of employee engagement. James’s sessions aren’t just talks – they’re transformative experiences.
Join us for this unforgettable session that’s equal parts powerful and purposeful. In this inspiring talk, James will show how to lead with impact, master resilience, time management, and reinvention, showing how you can turn hope into habits through this confetti-filled formula that builds a more positive, productive, and profitable culture!
Event Details:
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
8:30 AM – Registration
9:oo AM – Presentation
Marriott Tampa International Airport
4200 George J Bean Parkway Tampa, FL
Registration:
Member – $45 per person
Future Member – $55 per person
Reserved Table of 8 – $350
Register Now

Sponsorship Opportunities:
Event Sponsor: $550
(Includes opportunity to welcome guests, corporate logo on signage, video screen and reserved table of 6)
Breakfast Sponsor: $250
(Includes recognition, signage with corporate logo and 2 event tickets)

Hillsborough - 2nd Annual ROSE Awards
2025-10-09 17:30 - 20:30 | Renaissance Tampa International Plaza, 4200 Jim Walter Boulevard, Tampa, FL, 33607, United States
The 2nd Annual Hillsborough ROSE Awards
October 9, 2025
Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel

Welcome to the highly anticipated 2nd Annual Hillsborough ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence) Awards! This illustrious occasion celebrates the remarkable efforts of frontline Hospitality professionals who consistently exceed expectations in delivering exceptional service. These individuals truly epitomize the unwavering commitment of the region 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.
Evening Itinerary:
5:30 PM – Red Carpet Arrival
6:00 PM – ROSE Awards Reception (Cash Bar)
6:20 PM – Nominee Group Photo
6:30 PM – ROSE Awards Ceremony & Dinner
Business/Cocktail Attire Requested

Are you currently working alongside a dedicated team member who embodies qualities of reliability, passion, and exceptional customer service? Someone who consistently goes the extra mile beyond their regular duties? If so, we invite you to shine a spotlight on their outstanding contributions by nominating them for a prestigious ROSE Award!

Submit a Nomination!
Nomination Deadline: October 2, 2025

Purchase Tickets!

Click Here to View the 2024 ROSE Award Winners!

Thank you to our Sponsors:

Hillsborough - Pizza Palooza
2025-11-13 14:00 - 16:30 | Renaissance Tampa International Plaza, 4200 Jim Walter Boulevard, Tampa, FL, 33607, United States
In “knead” of a little team bonding?
Head to the Hillsborough Chapter’s Pizza Palooza for a deliciously fun and friendly pizza-making competition! Everyone on your team will work together to make pizza dough from scratch, and then creative energy will flow while you choose flavor combinations and ingredients to craft the best pizza pie. The event culminates a friendly competition that calls on each team to hone time management, collaboration, communication, and presentation skills with delicious results.
Giving Back for the Holidays!
The Hillsborough Chapter is thrilled to spread joy and make a difference in the lives of teenagers in our community! We invite all attendees to join us in this heartwarming initiative by bringing a minimum $15.00 gift card from Amazon, Target, Walmart, or others. These thoughtful gifts will be given to teenagers who often go unsupported during the holidays.

Event Details:
Thursday, November 13, 2025
2:00 – 4:30 PM
Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel
(Pelagia Trattoria)
4200 Jim Walter Blvd. Tampa, FL 33607
Event Cost:
Team of Four – $150
Member – $45 per person
Future Member – $50 per person
One drink ticket for wine, beer, or soda and pizza tasting
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Palooza Sponsor: $500
2 event tickets, welcoming at event and corporate signage at an event
Pizza Station Sponsor: $175
2 event tickets, corporate signage at event

Register Now!
Registration Deadline: November 7, 2025

Hillsborough - Holiday Social
2025-12-10 16:00 - 17:30 | AC Hotel, 420 West Boy Scout Boulevard, Tampa, 33607, United States
You are cordially invited to mix, mingle, and give back this holiday season! Join us at the FRLA Hillsborough Chapter Holiday Social at AC Hotel for a great cause.

REGISTER NOW

Hillsborough - Board Installation Reception - DATE CHANGE!
2026-02-17 15:30 - 17:00 | Santo’s Drinkeria Roof Top Bar, 1607 N 22 Street, Tampa, 33605, United States
REGISTER NOW

Hillsborough & Pinellas - Hospitality Forward Series: Industry Trends & Insights
2026-03-25 08:30 - 10:30 | The Karol Hotel, 2675 Ulmerton Road, Clearwater, FL, 33762, United States
Hospitality Forward: Industry Trends
Join us for the first meeting series of 2026!
Change is the only constant in the hospitality industry. With guest/patron satisfaction and experience at the core of success, businesses must stay ahead of the trends shaping the industry. The Pinellas & Hillsborough Chapters of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association have assembled a distinguished panel of hospitality experts who will explore key hospitality trends and offer insights to provide leaders with informed ideas on people, technology, and processes. We want to help your business not only adapt, but thrive in 2026 and beyond!
Topics:

What was/is working in 2025/2026
Status of the market
What consumers are drinking
How technology is affecting the industry
Generational behavior shifts
Operational supply chain health and issues

Distinguished Industry Panel

Daniel Murphy, Division of Marketing & Development, Florida Department of Agriculture
Michelle Stencik, Director, Customer Strategic Insights, Coke
David Boothe, Vice President, Republic National Distributing Company
Jeremy Padilla, Region Vice President, Sysco West Florida
Dora Fruman, Head of Client Strategies, Revenue Management Solutions
Steve Jaeger, Director of Portfolio, Republic National Distributing Company

Q&A to follow the panel discussion!

Event Details:
Wednesday, March 25, 2026
8:30 AM – Registration
9:00 – 10:30 AM – Industry Panel and Light Breakfast
The Karol Hotel | 2675 Ulmerton Road Clearwater, FL
$40 – Per Meeting
(or $99 for all 3 meetings)

Register Now!
Registration deadline: 3/24/2026

Sponsorship Opportunities:
$150 – Event Sponsor
(includes corporate signage and two attendees)

Pinellas & Hillsborough - 3rd Annual Reverse Hotel & Restaurant Showcase
2026-04-23 | Marriott St. Petersburg Clearwater, 12600 Roosevelt Blvd, St. Petersburg, FL, 33716, United States
Save the Date! Join the FRLA Pinellas and Hillsborough Chapter on April 23rd for the 3rd Annual Reverse Hotel & Restaurant Showcase!

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!

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.
MEET THE 2025 SPEAKERS
Tim Tebow
2025 AGENDA
CLICK HERE TO VIEW AGENDA
ACCOMODATIONS
*Room block coming soon. Should you have any questions please contact Ashley Gholston, Events & Industry Relations Director, agholston@frla.org.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
1 Seminole Way, Davie, FL 33314

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

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.

Hillsborough 3rd Annual ROSE Awards
2026-10-08 | JW Marriott Tampa Water Street, 510 Water St, Tampa, 33602, United States
SAVE THE DATE
The 3rd Annual Hillsborough ROSE Awards
October 8, 2026
JW Marriott Tampa Water Street

The 3rd Annual Hillsborough 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.org

The Florida Restaurant Show
2026-10-25 - 2026-10-27 | Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, FL
INTRODUCING…THE FLORIDA RESTAURANT SHOW!

Whether you’re an independent owner, quick-serve restaurant operator, chef, caterer, baker, bar or nightclub operator, hospital, hotel, or commercial foodservice personnel — join us for 3 days October 25-27, 2026, at the Florida Restaurant Show at the Orange County Convention Center.
Learn about the hottest menu trends, state-of-the-art design and decor, the best in business education within our education programming, and hundreds of the leading vendors and purveyors dedicated to serving the restaurant & foodservice community — all under one roof.
Watch live culinary performances and listen in on discussions about how our chefs came to be. Emerging trends abound on the show floor with hundreds of exhibitors and in our exciting special events. Spark your creative appetite and celebrate your passion for the profession.
Thank you so much to all our partners and supporters!

LEARN MORE HERE

Questions? Contact:

Registration: FRLA restaurant and hotel members receive unlimited free badges, and will need to select the “FRLA Member” option and include their member ID . If you need assistance with registration please contact customer service at PizzaSummitFloridaRestaurant@maritz.com.
Exhibits & Sponsorships: Paul Pedrow at (484) 823-9608, paul@therestaurantevents.com or Joe Carlino joe@therestaurantevents.com
Educational Breakout Sessions: Amy Riemer at 978-502-4895 or amy@riemercommunications.com
