FRLA

Northeast - HR Panel: How to Grow Your Career in Hospitality
2025-09-03 09:00 - 10:30 (America/New_York) | V Pizza + Sidecar – Gate Parkway, 7510 Gate Pkwy, Jacksonville, 32256, United States
Join the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association Northeast Chapter for our annual HR Panel: Climbing the Ladder: How to Grow Your Career in Hospitality! This engaging session is designed to inspire and equip hospitality professionals at all levels with real-world strategies for career growth. Through a dynamic panel discussion and interactive breakout groups, attendees will gain actionable insights on:

Navigating career pathways in today’s evolving hospitality industry
Developing skills and mindsets that lead to promotion
Learning from real-life success stories of industry leaders

This panel is ideal for frontline hospitality staff, mid-level managers aiming for senior roles, and HR professionals supporting career development! We encourage you to bring your staff and colleagues for a morning of learning, networking, and inspiration. It’s a great opportunity to invest in your team’s growth and connect with others in the industry.
Featuring:
Moderator: Samara Johns, One Ocean Resort
Panelists: Amy Walter, V’s Pizza | Valencia Grooms, Sawgrass Marriott
Event Details:
Wednesday, September 3 | 9:00–10:30 a.m.
V Pizza + Sidecar – Gate Parkway
7510 Gate Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32256
Event Cost:
FREE!
Register Now

Northeast - FRLA Leadership Series: Qualities of a Leader
2025-10-29 09:00 - 10:30 | Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park, 4812 Deer Lake Dr W, Jacksonville, FL, 32246, United States
Join the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association Northeast Chapter for our annual Qualities of a Leader Program. Each year, FRLA spotlights an industry leader in a candid conversation about the qualities that shaped their path to success. This year, we invite you to join us for a casual discussion with Curtis Osmond as we explore the Qualities of a Leader.
This interactive conversation will explore Curtis’s journey in the hospitality industry. How he got started, the challenges he’s faced, the values that have shaped him, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
We’ll touch on his career growth, education, volunteer work, and development, and hear his advice for those pursuing leadership and success. This won’t be a speech—it’s an intimate discussion designed to inspire and engage.
Event Details:
Wednesday, October 29, 2025
9:00–10:30 a.m.
Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park
4812 W Deer Lake Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32246
About Curtis Osmond:
Curtis graduated from Oklahoma State University with a degree in Hospitality Management. He served as Proprietor of Jacksonville’s III Forks before joining the corporate office of Consolidated Restaurant Operations (CRO), which manages brands including III Forks, Cantina Laredo, El Chico, Silver Fox, Lucky’s Café, Cool River, and Black Oak Grill. Curtis specializes in fine dining steakhouses and brings a wealth of experience in leadership and growth.

Register Now!

Northeast - 2025 Bust A Clay
2025-12-01 08:00 - 13:00 | Jacksonville Clay Target Sports, 12125 New Berlin Rd, Jacksonville, FL, 32226, United States
Join us for an exciting day of sporting clay action, networking, and friendly competition with your industry colleagues! Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or trying it for the first time, bring your team and clients for a memorable experience that builds camaraderie and connections.
Your participation directly supports the FRLA Northeast Chapter, helping us empower the next generation of culinary talent from sixteen area high schools through the ProStart Culinary Training program. Funds raised will also strengthen our advocacy efforts through the FRLA PAC.
Don’t miss this opportunity to make an impact while having fun!
Schedule:
8-8:30 a.m. Registration & Light Breakfast
8:45 a.m. Safety Briefing
9 a.m. Shoot
Lunch & Award Ceremony following play
Event Registration:
Foursome: $550
Individual: $180
Includes: Light Breakfast, Clays, Shells, Golf Cart, Lunch included
Note: you will need to provide your own equipment (shotgun)
Sponsorship Opportunities:
**SOLD** Shell Sponsor: $1,000
Your company logo on each shell box and recognition at event.
Supporting Sponsor: $750
Recognition at event and a station sign.
**SOLD** Turkey Shoot sponsor: $500
You are the host for the Turkey shoot! Greet each player and announce winners.
Refreshment/Snack break sponsor: $300
Provide a refreshment at the turn and greet each player.

Register Now!

Northeast - Nights of Lights Closing Party
2026-01-12 16:00 - 19:00 | Meehan’s Irish Pub, 20 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL, United States
Nights of Lights Closing Party
Let’s wrap up another sparkling Nights of Lights and a fantastic holiday season—St. Augustine style!
Join us upstairs at Meehan’s Oyster Bar for:

Tasty appetizers
Your first drink on us
Great company, laughs, and stories from the season

Bring your team, your holiday cheer, and your best Nights of Lights memories as we toast to a successful season and look ahead to an even brighter year!
Only 50 tickets are available, once they’re gone, they’re gone! Reserve yours today!

Event Details:
Monday, January 12, 2026
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Meehan’s Irish Pub – Upstairs Oyster Bar
20 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Event Cost: $15 (includes apps and one drink)

REGISTER NOW

Northeast - Annual THE PLAYERS Championship & Golf Tourism Update
2026-01-28 09:00 - 10:30 | Sawgrass Marriott, 1000 Tournament Players Club Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, 32082, United States
The FRLA Northeast Chapter invites you to our annual THE PLAYERS Championship & Golf Tourism Update featuring insights from Lee Smith, Executive Director of THE PLAYERS Championship, as he shares what’s in store for the 2026 tournament, March 10–15, 2026.
We’ll also hear from David Reese, President & CEO of Florida’s First Coast of Golf, who will share the latest golf tourism trends and data shaping travel decisions across Northeast Florida. David will share the outlook on the current and projected state of golf tourism, including insights on visitor demographics, economic impact, and marketing strategies that position our region as a premier golf destination.
Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to connect with industry leaders and get an inside look at what’s ahead for one of Northeast Florida’s premier sporting events. Light breakfast and refreshments provided by Sawgrass Marriott.

Event Details:
Wednesday, January 28, 2026
⏰ 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Sawgrass Marriott
1000 Tournament Players Club Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Room: Champions E

Event Cost:
FREE!
**Pre-registration is required!**
Register Now!

ABOUT: Lee Smith Executive Director, THE PLAYERS Championship
In his role as Executive Director of THE PLAYERS, Lee oversees all aspects of the PGA TOUR’s flagship event, from sales, marketing and operations to community and charitable outreach and support. In addition, he leads THE PLAYERS Council, an association of corporate and community leaders who share THE PLAYERS’ commitment to economic growth and development. Lee joined THE PLAYERS team in 2023, and prior to that served as the General Manager at Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City, New Jersey, a property managed by the PGA TOUR, where he was instrumental in helping the PGA TOUR contest THE NORTHERN TRUST in 2019 and 2021.
Smith has been a key member of the TPC Network since he joined in 2008, serving as Head Golf Professional at TPC Sugarloaf outside Atlanta; General Manager of TPC Summerlin in Las Vegas; and Regional Director of Operations for TPC Networks, a role he held concurrently with his position at Liberty National. He has been a Class A member of the PGA of America for more than 20 years.
Originally from Illinois, Smith graduated with a degree in Sports Management from Southeast Missouri State University (where he was a letterwinner on the men’s golf team) and later attended the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University, where he earned a Masters in Sports Law & Business. Widely recognized as an outstanding golf professional, Lee has been named twice, in both 2013 & 2017, as Golf Professional of the Year for the Las Vegas Chapter PGA, and 2015 Golf Club Operator of the Year by Golf Inc. Magazine.

Northeast - 2026 Board Installation & Mixer
2026-02-03 16:30 - 18:00 | Champion Brands, 5571 Florida Mining Blvd S, Jacksonville, 32257, United States
Kick off 2026 with the FRLA Northeast Chapter at our exciting mix-and-mingle event!

Join us to kick off the new year and mix and mingle with our 2026 Board of Directors. We will highlight chapter updates for 2026 and enjoy a casual networking reception. The event will begin with the 2026 Board Installation ceremony.
To view the listing of the 2026 Board of Directors visit, https://frla.org/chapters/northeast/
Tuesday, February 3, 2026
4:30-6 p.m.
Champion Brands, 5571 Florida Mining Blvd S, Jacksonville, FL 32257

Event Cost:
FRLA Members: $30
Future Members: $45
Includes one drink ticket for beer or wine, in addition to appetizers. Cash bar available.
REGISTER NOW

Northeast - 17th Annual ROSE Awards
2026-02-25 17:30 - 20:30 | Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront, 225 East Coastline Drive, Jacksonville, FL, 32202, United States
Event registration has closed. For questions, please contact Nicole at nchapman@frla.org

Join the FRLA Northeast Chapter to celebrate the 17th Annual ROSE Awards!
Please join the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) Northeast Chapter at the Recognition of Service Excellence (ROSE) Awards as we honor Northeast Florida frontline hospitality employees who demonstrate excellent customer service and keep our industry thriving. These industry champions showcase the region’s commitment to creating an extraordinary visitor experience!
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront
225 E Coastline Dr.
Jacksonville, FL 32202
5:30 PM – 6:15 PM Registration/Cocktail Hour
6:15 PM – 8:30 PM Dinner/Award Program
Dress: Business/Cocktail
COST: Members: $85 per person or $670 per table (8 seats)
Future Members: $100 per person or $775 table (8 seats)
If you wish to pay with a check and receive invoice, please email nchapman@frla.org

Sponsorship Opportunities

Click here to learn more about ROSE Awards and for the nomination information.

Northeast - Annual Women in Hospitality Panel
2026-03-25 09:00 - 10:30 | FL
Join the Northeast Chapter of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association for our annual Women in Hospitality Leadership Panel Discussion. Don’t miss this dynamic panel discussion spotlighting the women shaping the future of Northeast Florida’s restaurant and lodging industry.
Date: March 25, 2026
Time: 9:00 – 10:30 AM
Location: Southbank Hotel Jacksonville Riverwalk, 1515 Prudential Drive, Jacksonville, FL
This engaging conversation will explore leadership, resilience, innovation, and the evolving opportunities for women across hospitality.
Moderator: John Shermetaro, Shermetaro Speaking
Panelists:
• Antonette Palacios, CEO, V Pizza
• Jennifer Morken, Interim General Manager, Renaissance Resort at World Golf Village
• Leila Deitsch, Assistant Director of Human Resources, Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront
Our discussion will explore:

Breaking barriers and advancing into leadership roles
Building resilient, high-performing teams
Emerging trends shaping the future of hospitality
Mentorship, advocacy, and developing the next generation of leaders

Attendees will gain practical insights, connect with peers and industry executives, and leave inspired to continue elevating hospitality across Northeast Florida.
No cost to attend, but advanced registration is required.
Click Here to RSVP

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:

Northeast - AI for Hospitality: Practical Tools You Can Use Today
2026-06-11 09:00 - 10:30 | Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park, 4812 Deer Lake Dr W, Jacksonville, FL, 32246, United States
AI for Hospitality: Practical Tools You Can Use Today
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming how hospitality businesses operate, from marketing and guest engagement to forecasting and operational efficiency. Join the FRLA Northeast Chapter for a practical session designed specifically for restaurant and lodging professionals. This program will showcase real-world AI tools that operators can use immediately to streamline daily operations, enhance marketing efforts, and improve decision-making. Through short demonstrations and industry examples, we will explore how AI can help in your day-to-day tasks. Whether you’re AI-curious or already experimenting with new tools, you’ll leave with practical ideas, recommended platforms, and simple ways to start using AI in your business.
Event Details:
Thursday, June 11
9:00 – 10:30 AM
Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park
Event Cost:
FREE
Click Here to Register

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.
REGISTER TODAY!

NOTE: Early bird pricing is available through June 30th!
Group discounts are available for parties of 8 or more.
Sponsors will be emailed a promo code with further instructions on how to get registered.
For more information please contact Ashley Jackson at ajackson@frla.org.
Meet the 2026 KEYNOTES
Ryan Minton

SPOSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
CLICK HERE TO VIEW SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
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.org.

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

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

Northeast: 2026 Bust A Clay
2026-12-01 08:00 - 13:00 | Jacksonville Clay Target Sports, 12125 New Berlin Rd, Jacksonville, FL, 32226, United States
SAVE THE DATE!
Monday, December 1, 2026
8 am. – 1 p.m.
Jacksonville Clay Target Sports

Join us for an exciting day of sporting clay action, networking, and friendly competition with your industry colleagues! Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or trying it for the first time, bring your team and clients for a memorable experience that builds camaraderie and connections.
Your participation directly supports the FRLA Northeast Chapter, helping us empower the next generation of culinary talent from sixteen area high schools through the ProStart Culinary Training program. Funds raised will also strengthen our advocacy efforts through the FRLA PAC.
Don’t miss this opportunity to make an impact while having fun!

Schedule:
8-8:30 a.m. Registration & Light Breakfast
8:45 a.m. Safety Briefing
9 a.m. Shoot
Lunch & Award Ceremony following play

Event Registration and Sponsorship opportunities will be open soon!
