~Area Restaurants and Hotels Award Local Employees for Service Excellence~

DESTIN, FL – The Northwest Florida Chapter of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) partnered with Walton County Tourism and Destin Fort Walton Beach to recognize the men and women who have made a significant impact on the local hospitality industry. Nearly 200 people gathered at The Henderson Beach Resort to celebrate and recognize frontline hospitality employees. Over 40 individuals were nominated, and 10 individuals were selected for a Hospitality Hero Award. The winners each received an award and $500 in recognition of their outstanding service and commitment to providing exceptional experiences for guests.

“What an honor to recognize and celebrate the heart of our industry with the Hospitality Heroes Awards,” said Marissa Bonham, Northwest Florida Regional Director for FRLA and the event’s organizer. “This heartwarming event has left a lasting impression on not only the nominees and award winners, but everyone in attendance. Their contributions continue to set Florida apart as a leading destination for tourism and leisure travel.”

“Northwest Florida is known around the globe for its outstanding hospitality that keeps our visitors coming back year after year,” said Carol Dover, President & CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. “Every single team member in our restaurants and hotels plays a vital role in delivering the exceptional service that drives our success. Congratulations to our nominees and winners! Our industry is second to none because of you, our hospitality heroes.”

The 2025 Hospitality Heroes are:

Best Restaurant FOH Employee – Grace Carver, The Bald & The Beard Restaurant Group Best Restaurant BOH Employee – Dwayne Barnett, Jim Shirley Enterprises

Best Restaurant Manager – Gemma Fought, Saltwater Restaurants

Best Culinary / Kitchen Manager – Michael Reinsmith, Henderson Beach Resort

Best Hotel / Resort FOH Employee – Deb Esling, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa Best Hotel / Resort BOH Employee – Lily Sultansihvili, Embassy Suites Miramar Beach

Best Hotel Resort Manager – Liz Larneard, Gibson Beach Rentals

Director of Sales / Marketing – Peggy Moravec, Embassy Suites Miramar Beach

Spirit of Hospitality – Shantelle Dedicke, Frances Roy Marketing Agency

True Hero-Veteran in Hospitality – John Butler, The Bald & The Beard Restaurant Group

About FRLA: The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is Florida’s premier non-profit hospitality industry trade association. Founded in 1946 as the Florida Restaurant Association, FRLA merged with the Florida Hotel and Motel Association in 2006. FRLA’s more than 10,000 members include independent hoteliers and restaurateurs, household name franchises, theme parks and suppliers. The association’s mission is to protect, educate, and promote Florida’s nearly $112 billion hospitality industry which represents nearly two million employees. Dedicated to safeguarding the needs of the membership, FRLA provides legislative advocacy to ensure the voices of its members are heard and their interests are protected. The association offers regulatory compliance and food safety training through Safe Staff® and FRLA’s subsidiary, RCS Training. The FRLA Educational Foundation provides industry-developed, career-building high school programs throughout the state.

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~Inaugural ROSE Awards Recognize Local Stars of the Industry~

HOLLYWOOD, FL – Nearly 300 people from across Broward County gathered at the iconic Diplomat Beach Resort for the inaugural FRLA Broward ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence) Awards ceremony to honor outstanding members of the local hospitality community.

 The ROSE Awards recognize and celebrate the exceptional contributions of frontline hospitality team members across the region. The event boasted more than 80 nominees from 22 local businesses, and 10 outstanding team members were honored with the coveted ROSE Award. The winners each received their award, the coveted ROSE Award pin, and recognition from industry peers and leadership. Additionally, all winners received complimentary roundtrip airline tickets from Southwest Airlines.

“We are thrilled to bring the ROSE Awards to Broward County and celebrate these deserving individuals,” said Carol Dover, President & CEO of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA). “Florida’s hospitality industry is globally recognized for creating unforgettable experiences that keep visitors and guests coming back time and time again. Every single team member in our restaurants and hotels plays a vital role in delivering the exceptional service that drives our success. Congratulations to our nominees and winners! Our industry is second to none because of you.”

“The inaugural Broward ROSE Awards celebrated the very best of Broward County’s hospitality industry, honoring the outstanding individuals that go above and beyond to create exceptional experiences every day,” said Rozeta Mahboubi, FRLA’s Broward Chapter Regional Director and the event organizer. “This prestigious event recognized the dedication, passion, and excellence that make Broward a top destination for visitors and locals alike.”

The 2025 ROSE Award Winners Are:

Back of the House: Kelvin Vasquez, Marriott Fort Lauderdale Airport

Behind the Scenes: Monica Cabezas, Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa

Culinary: Kedon Carter, Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort

Customer Service: Paige Vincent, Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale

Food and Beverage: Onyx Long, Riverside Hotel/The Las Olas Company

Front of the House: Julio Lopez, The Diplomat Beach Resort

Front of the House: Kushboo Singh, Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort

Front of the House: Nuno Luis Casanova, Boucher Brothers/Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa

Front of the House: William Jones, Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort

Transportation: Kimberly Bertsch, Port Everglades

About FRLA: The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is Florida’s premier non-profit hospitality industry trade association. Founded in 1946 as the Florida Restaurant Association, FRLA merged with the Florida Hotel and Motel Association in 2006. FRLA’s more than 10,000 members include independent hoteliers and restaurateurs, household name franchises, theme parks and suppliers. The association’s mission is to protect, educate, and promote Florida’s nearly $112 billion hospitality industry which represents nearly two million employees. Dedicated to safeguarding the needs of the membership, FRLA provides legislative advocacy to ensure the voices of its members are heard and their interests are protected. The association offers regulatory compliance and food safety training through Safe Staff^® and FRLA’s subsidiary, RCS Training. The FRLA Educational Foundation provides industry-developed, career-building high school programs throughout the state.

Nominees and winners gather for the 16th Annual ROSE Awards

ST. AUGUSTINE – Last night, more than 450 people from across the regional hospitality industry gathered at the Renaissance Resort at World Golf Village for the sold-out 16th Annual ROSE Awards ceremony to honor the stars of the Northeast Florida hospitality community. 

A premier event of the Northeast Chapter of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA), the ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence) Awards honor frontline hospitality workers across the region. This year’s event boasted more than 130 nominees from over 45 different businesses, and 30 outstanding team members were honored with the coveted ROSE Award.

“Every member of the hospitality industry plays a vital role in delivering exceptional guest experiences and driving successful businesses,” said Carol Dover, President & CEO of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA). “From administrative assistants to chefs, housekeeping to transportation, and front desk staff to valets and bellmen, each position is essential to the team’s success. The dedication and excellence of these ROSE Award nominees and winners are a testament to their professionalism and passion for hospitality. Congratulations to these outstanding individuals! Our industry is second to none because of you.”

Last night’s ROSE Award winners each received an award, the coveted ROSE Award pin, and recognition from industry peers and leadership. Middle managers were also recognized for their commitment and hard work throughout the ceremony. This year’s winners include individuals who saved guests from near-drowning experiences, one incredibly selfless concierge who offered up her own home during a hurricane, and countless hospitality professionals who have gone the extra mile to provide exceptional service behind the scenes, to name a few.

“It’s an absolute honor to celebrate Northeast Florida’s best of the best in hospitality for the 16^th year of ROSE Awards,” said Nicole Chapman, NE Florida FRLA Regional Director and the event’s creator and organizer. “These dedicated individuals consistently go the extra mile, serving as true ambassadors for our region and industry. Their passion and hard work make a lasting impact on our guests, and we are thrilled to recognize their excellence.”

The 2025 ROSE Award Winners Are:

Administrative Assistant: Christine Hampton, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

Allied Member Spotlight: Tony Johnson, St Johns Food Service

Banquets: Joyce Dillion, World Golf Village Renaissance Resort, St. Augustine

Bartender – Hotel: Mark Turner, Residence Inn Jacksonville – Mayo Clinic Area

Bartender – Restaurant: Lindsay Pittman, The Plantation at Ponte Vedra Beach

Behind The Scenes: Nicholas Smith, DoubleTree by Hilton Jacksonville Riverfront

Beyond the Call of Duty: Chase Ledsworth, Ponte Vedra Inn & Club

 Beyond the Call of Duty: Kathryn Galpin, Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa

Beyond the Call of Duty: Michael Gozar, The Lodge & Club

Beyond the Call of Duty: Tanisha Edwards, Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa

Beyond the Call of Duty: Toledo Crego, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

Culinary Service – Chef/Cook Hotel: Maria Panichi, Residence Inn Jacksonville – Mayo Clinic Area

Culinary Service – Chef/Cook Restaurant: Brandon George, Mesa Restaurant

Customer Service: Concierge, Recreation, Spa: Bebi Rahaman, The Lodge & Club

Customer Service: Event Services: Lance Cutlar, Visit Jacksonville

Food & Beverage: Support: Aliona Telford, Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront

Guest Service – Front Desk Full-Service Hotel: Latoya King, DoubleTree by Hilton Jacksonville Airport

Guest Service – Front Desk-Select Service Hotel: Kimberly Nixon, Home2 Suites by Hilton – St. John’s Town Center

Guest Service – Housekeeping Full-Service Hotel: Rene Blanco, World Golf Village Renaissance Resort, St. Augustine

Guest Service – Housekeeping-Select Service Hotel: Zurija Medic, Residence Inn Jacksonville – Mayo Clinic Area

Guest Service – Laundry: Deyvid Layton, One Ocean Resort and Spa

Guest Service – Maintenance/Engineer: Kelvin Garland, Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa

Guest Service – Security: Diane Cawley, Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa

Guest Service – Valet/Bell Attendant: Bobby Ross, Hyatt Regency Jacksonville

Server: Hotel-Breakfast Attendant: Yasmine Rivera, Hampton Inn & Suites Middleburg

Server: Restaurant- Casual Dining: Amanda Bales, Salt Life Food Shack

Server: Restaurant- Fine Dining: Patty Garvey, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

Server: Restaurant- Hotel: Anasymone Tadrous, Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront

Server: Restaurant- Quick Service: Stephen Ward, Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa

Transportation: Airport, Ground, & Water: Brien Homminga, Jax Black Car

About FRLA: The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is Florida’s premier non-profit hospitality industry trade association. Founded in 1946 as the Florida Restaurant Association, FRLA merged with the Florida Hotel and Motel Association in 2006. FRLA’s more than 10,000 members include independent hoteliers and restaurateurs, household name franchises, theme parks and suppliers. The association’s mission is to protect, educate, and promote Florida’s nearly $112 billion hospitality industry which represents nearly two million employees. Dedicated to safeguarding the needs of the membership, FRLA provides legislative advocacy to ensure the voices of its members are heard and their interests are protected. The association offers regulatory compliance and food safety training through Safe Staff^® and FRLA’s subsidiary, RCS Training. The FRLA Educational Foundation provides industry-developed, career-building high school programs throughout the state.

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~Retired Firehouse Subs CEO Honored at FRLA Stars of the Industry Gala; Tribute Video Released~

(L-R: FRLA President & CEO Carol Dover, FRLA Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Don Fox, FRLA 2023 & 2024 Chairman of the Board John Horne)

TALLAHASSEE, FL – At the recently held Hospitality Stars of the Industry Gala, the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) presented its Lifetime Achievement Award to highly respected and accomplished restaurant leader Don Fox, former CEO of Firehouse of America. Fox was inducted into the FRLA Hall of Fame during the ceremony, which was held at the Sunseeker Resort in Charlotte Harbor following a delay due to Hurricane Milton.

“Don Fox is the embodiment of leadership, vision, and passion for the hospitality industry,” said Carol Dover, President & CEO of FRLA. “His remarkable career has not only shaped Firehouse Subs into a household name but has also inspired countless professionals in our field through his focus on culture and mentoring. His impact goes far beyond business – his dedication to community service, advocacy, and operator success is a true testament to his character and desire for others to succeed. We are honored to recognize Don with our Lifetime Achievement Award and celebrate his extraordinary legacy.”

The Hospitality Stars of the Industry Gala pays tribute to men and women from across the Sunshine State for their remarkable work in hospitality. The FRLA Lifetime Achievement Award is a prestigious and seldom-bestowed honor, only presented to individuals whose lifelong contributions have profoundly shaped Florida’s hospitality industry and its future.

“The FRLA has been a rewarding part of my professional journey,” said Don Fox, FRLA Lifetime Achievement Award winner and retired CEO of Firehouse of America. “Receiving this award is a great honor, surpassed only by the value of the relationships forged among my peers.”

To learn more about Don Fox and his contributions, please view his FRLA Lifetime Achievement Award Video here.

About Don: Don M. Fox is an inspirational leader and engaged advocate with over 50 years in the restaurant industry. He has a proven track record in executive, operational, and staff roles, excelling in building critical franchisee-franchisor relationships. His accolades include the 2011 Operator of the Year from Nation’s Restaurant News and the 2013 Silver Plate Award from IFMA. In early 2024, he retired from day-to-day executive management. At Firehouse of America, LLC (2003–2023), Don served as President and CEO, guiding the brand to become one of America’s favorite restaurant chains with record sales of $1.1 billion in 2021, leading to its acquisition by Restaurant Brands International. His earlier roles included Chief Operating Officer and Director of Franchise Compliance. Prior to Firehouse, he spent 23 years at Burger King Corporation, rising through various management positions. Don is also an accomplished author and public speaker, with over 250 engagements and several published works. He actively serves on various boards – including FRLA, for which he was Chairman in 2017– contributing to industry advancement and community initiatives at both the state and federal levels.

About FRLA: The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is Florida’s premier non-profit hospitality industry trade association. Founded in 1946 as the Florida Restaurant Association, FRLA merged with the Florida Hotel and Motel Association in 2006. FRLA’s more than 10,000 members include independent hoteliers and restaurateurs, household name franchises, theme parks, and suppliers. The Association’s mission is to protect, educate, and promote Florida’s nearly $112 billion hospitality industry which represents nearly two million employees. Dedicated to safeguarding the needs of the membership, FRLA provides legislative advocacy to ensure the voices of its members are heard and their interests are protected. The Association offers regulatory compliance and food safety training through Safe Staff^® and FRLA’s subsidiary, RCS Training. The FRLA Educational Foundation provides industry-developed, career-building high school programs throughout the state.

~Horace Dawson Honored at FRLA Stars of the Industry Gala; Tribute Video Released~

(L-R: FRLA President & CEO Carol Dover, FRLA Restaurateur of the Year Horace Dawson, FRLA 2023 & 2024 Chairman of the Board John Horne)

 TALLAHASSEE, FL – At the recently held 2024 Hospitality Stars of the Industry Gala, the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) awarded the prestigious Restaurateur of the Year award to Horace Dawson, the newly retired Chief Executive Officer of Red Lobster. Dawson was also inducted into the FRLA Hall of Fame during the ceremony, which was held at the Sunseeker Resort in Charlotte Harbor. The event was delayed from October 2024 following Hurricane Milton.

“Horace Dawson’s decades of leadership in the hospitality industry, paired with his extensive legal background and contributions, have left an indelible mark on Florida’s restaurant landscape,” said Carol Dover, President & CEO of FRLA. “His ability to bring stability and vision to iconic brands like Red Lobster during times of change is a testament to his influence, wisdom, kindness, and unparalleled dedication. It is an honor to recognize Horace as our 2024 Restaurateur of the Year and induct him into the FRLA Hall of Fame – a well-deserved honor for a true industry leader.”

The Hospitality Stars of the Industry Gala pays tribute to men and women from across the Sunshine State for their remarkable work in hospitality. The Hall of Fame distinction is reserved for those who have dedicated their careers to providing excellent service and leadership, leaving a lasting impact on Florida’s hospitality industry and its future.

In the preceding months, Horace Dawson retired as the CEO of Red Lobster, the world’s largest seafood restaurant chain, which has over 700 locations and nearly 35,000 employees. Prior to becoming CEO, he served as Executive Vice President and General Counsel from 2014 to 2023. Before joining Red Lobster, Horace was Vice President and Division General Counsel for Darden Restaurants, where he focused on litigation, employment, intellectual property, and more for over 11 years. He also gained private practice experience at Akerman LLP, handling corporate and securities matters. From 1996 to 2001, he was VP of Business Affairs and General Counsel for Hard Rock Café International, overseeing the rapid expansion from 37 to 104 restaurants and three hotels. His earlier career includes roles in the entertainment and corporate sectors for Telemundo and various New York law firms. A rare accomplishment, Horace achieved his undergraduate, law, and Master of Business Administration degrees all from Harvard University. He has served on multiple boards, including FRLA, the National Restaurant Association, and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Florida.

“Receiving this recognition is a tremendous honor, reflecting the dedication and passion of the great teams I’ve worked with,” said Horace Dawson, retired CEO of Red Lobster. “It’s been a privilege to contribute to Florida’s dynamic restaurant industry, and I’m deeply grateful to the FRLA for this acknowledgment.”

To learn more about Horace, please view his FRLA Hall of Fame Video here.

About FRLA: The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is Florida’s premier non-profit hospitality industry trade association. Founded in 1946 as the Florida Restaurant Association, FRLA merged with the Florida Hotel and Motel Association in 2006. FRLA’s more than 10,000 members include independent hoteliers and restaurateurs, household name franchises, theme parks, and suppliers. The Association’s mission is to protect, educate, and promote Florida’s nearly $112 billion hospitality industry which represents nearly two million employees. Dedicated to safeguarding the needs of the membership, FRLA provides legislative advocacy to ensure the voices of its members are heard and their interests are protected. The Association offers regulatory compliance and food safety training through Safe Staff^® and FRLA’s subsidiary, RCS Training. The FRLA Educational Foundation provides industry-developed, career-building high school programs throughout the state.

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TALLAHASSEE, FL – Today, the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) announced its formal endorsement of Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis for Florida’s 1st Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. The announcement came following the unanimous vote by the FRLA Board of Directors.

“On behalf of Florida’s hospitality industry, the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association is proud to endorse CFO Jimmy Patronis for CD-1,” said Carol Dover, President & CEO of FRLA. “Jimmy Patronis has fiercely and admirably served as Florida’s Chief Financial Officer for nearly a decade, demonstrating his ability to protect and deliver exceptional financial oversight for the State of Florida. He has always been just a phone call away for the hospitality industry and his genuine desire to serve the people of Florida remains undeniable. Jimmy is a trusted leader whose business acumen, integrity, values, and proven commitment to Floridians make him the right choice for the constituents of Florida’s 1^st Congressional District.”

Throughout his time in public service, from the Florida House of Representatives to his current role as Chief Financial Officer, Jimmy has prioritized the people of Florida and the well-being of our state and its financial health. During the COVID pandemic, Patronis fought to keep hotels and restaurants open when other states shut the doors on hardworking hospitality workers. His family’s legendary imprint on the restaurant industry has specifically elevated Patronis as a strong partner of Florida’s hospitality industry – a top Florida business sector.

“Northwest Florida boasts emerald coasts and unforgettable dining destinations that attract visitors, contributing significantly to the vibrancy of our state and the health of its economy,” said FRLA Chairman of the Board Nick Sarra who is also Partner & CEO of Saltwater Restaurants in the Florida Panhandle. “CFO Patronis has a deep understanding of the importance of promoting and protecting hospitality and tourism throughout our region and across the state. As a lifelong resident of the Florida Panhandle, Patronis puts Florida first. He is the perfect candidate to represent CD-1 in Washington, D.C.”

Read the full endorsement letter here.

About Jimmy Patronis: Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis is a fourth-generation Floridian, born and raised in Panama City. He and wife Katie are proud parents to two sons, Theo (13) and Johnny (11). Jimmy worked for years at Capt. Anderson’s, his family’s historic seafood restaurant in Panama City Beach, which has served generations of locals and Florida visitors. Jimmy started in the family restaurant filling ketchup bottles, having to earn his way to a leadership position. He earned his associate’s degree in restaurant management from Gulf Coast Community College and a bachelor’s degree in political science from the Florida State University. Jimmy is currently serving as Florida’s Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal and has been working hard to accomplish great things during his time in office. So far, he has successfully fought to change the law to provide benefits for firefighters diagnosed with cancer, and mental health services for first responders who often experience trauma on the job. Read more about Jimmy here.

About FRLA: The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is Florida’s premier non-profit hospitality industry trade association. Founded in 1946 as the Florida Restaurant Association, FRLA merged with the Florida Hotel and Motel Association in 2006. FRLA’s more than 10,000 members include independent hoteliers and restaurateurs, household name franchises, theme parks, and suppliers. The association’s mission is to protect, educate, and promote Florida’s nearly $112 billion hospitality industry which represents two million employees. Dedicated to safeguarding the needs of the membership, FRLA provides legislative advocacy to ensure the voices of its members are heard and their interests are protected. The association offers regulatory compliance and food safety training through Safe Staff^® and FRLA’s subsidiary, RCS Training. The FRLA Educational Foundation provides industry-developed, career-building high school programs throughout the state, including the nation’s largest ProStart culinary program and the Hospitality & Tourism Management Program.

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~Hotelier, Supplier, and Restaurateur of the Year Icons Honored; Rare Lifetime Achievement Award Presented~

(L-R: Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Don Fox; Supplier of the Year Topher Jensen of Gas South; Restaurateur of the Year Horace Dawson; Hotelier of the Year Diane Schmidt)

CHARLOTTE HARBOR, FL – On Saturday evening, the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) honored its 2024 Hospitality Stars of the Industry Hall of Fame Winners during an evening gala at the Sunseeker Resort. The 2025 FRLA Board Executive Committee and new Chairman of the Board, Nick Sarra of Destin, were also sworn in at the event.

“Recognizing the exceptional achievements of our Hospitality Stars of the Industry is a true honor,” said Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. “The FRLA Hall of Fame celebrates distinguished leaders whose legacies have left an enduring mark on Florida’s vibrant hospitality landscape, and we are incredibly proud of the 2024 inductees. With more than 140 combined years of service, their unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation has not only elevated our industry but has set the standard that will continue to shape our industry for generations.”

2024 FRLA Hall of Fame Winners

Lifetime Achievement Award: Don Fox, Firehouse Subs (Retired), Jacksonville

Don M. Fox is an inspirational leader and engaged advocate with over 50 years in the restaurant industry. He has a proven track record in executive, operational, and staff roles, excelling in building critical franchisee-franchisor relationships. His accolades include the 2011 Operator of the Year from Nation’s Restaurant News and the 2013 Silver Plate Award from IFMA. In early 2024, he retired from day-to-day executive management. At Firehouse of America, LLC (2003–2023), Don served as President and CEO, guiding the brand to become one of America’s favorite restaurant chains with record sales of $1.1 billion in 2021, leading to its acquisition by Restaurant Brands International.

His earlier roles included Chief Operating Officer and Director of Franchise Compliance. Prior to Firehouse, he spent 23 years at Burger King Corporation, rising through various management positions. Don is also an accomplished author and public speaker, with over 250 engagements and several published works. He actively serves on various boards –including FRLA, for which he was Chairman in 2017– contributing to industry advancement and community initiatives at both the state and federal levels.

Supplier of the Year: Gas South – Topher Jensen, Gainesville

Gas South’s strives to be a Fuel for Good® by caring for customers and employees while uplifting communities. They are known for delivering exceptional value and service, while upholding strong values of integrity and accountability. Since 2006, Gas South has been the largest retail natural gas company in the Southeast, serving 470,000 plus customers. They donate 5% of all profits to help children in need, striving to make a positive impact every day.

Chris “Topher” Jensen is the Director of Commercial and Industrial Sales for Gas South, bringing 15 years of experience in the energy sector. He joined Gas South in 2020 through its merger with Infinite Energy where he spent a decade in various roles, including sales coordinator and commercial sales manager. In 2012, he founded the Infinite Olympics, an initiative that continues to thrive today. Previously, Topher worked in the hospitality industry and earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida. He is active in FRLA’s Northeast Chapter and Chairs the state Marketing & Allied Member Council. Believing in hard work and a positive attitude, Topher has found success in both his professional and personal life. He has been married to his wife Suzanne for 16 years and they share a talented and funny 13-year-old son, Max.

 Restaurateur of the Year: Horace Dawson, Red Lobster (Retired), Orlando

Horace Dawson recently retired as CEO of Red Lobster, the world’s largest seafood restaurant chain, which has over 700 locations and nearly 35,000 employees. Prior to becoming CEO, he served as Executive Vice President and General Counsel from 2014 to 2023. Before joining Red Lobster, Horace was Vice President and Division General Counsel for Darden Restaurants, where he focused on litigation, employment, intellectual property, and more for over 11 years.

He also gained private practice experience at Akerman LLP, handling corporate and securities matters. From 1996 to 2001, he was VP of Business Affairs and General Counsel for Hard Rock Café International, overseeing rapid expansion from 37 to 104 restaurants and three hotels. His earlier career includes roles in the entertainment and corporate sectors for Telemundo and various New York law firms. Horace achieved his undergraduate, law, and Master of Business Administration degrees all from Harvard University, and has served on multiple boards, including FRLA, the National Restaurant Association, and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Florida.

Hotelier of the Year: Diane Schmidt, Ocean Properties, Key West

Diane Schmidt has over 50 years of experience in the hospitality industry, with nearly 35 years in Key West, FL. She began her career at the Miami International Airport Marriott and quickly rose to Director of Catering at the Omni International Hotel. In 1982, Diane moved to Key West and worked at the Casa Marina Resort, ultimately serving as General Manager of The Reach. After a successful tenure with Interstate Hotels Corporation, Diane became Senior Vice President of Sales and Revenue Management for Boykin Management Company, overseeing 16 properties across multiple states.

In 2006, she returned to Key West as General Manager of the Opal Key West Resort & Marina, a role she held for 17 years before semi-retiring along with her husband Mark. Active in her community, Diane serves on several boards, including the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association and the Key West Chamber of Commerce. She has received numerous awards for her contributions to hospitality and community service.

About FRLA: The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association is Florida’s premier non-profit hospitality industry trade association. Founded in 1946 as the Florida Restaurant Association, FRLA merged with the Florida Hotel and Motel Association in 2006. FRLA’s more than 10,000 members include independent hoteliers and restaurateurs, household name franchises, theme parks, and suppliers. The association’s mission is to protect, educate, and promote Florida’s nearly $112 billion hospitality industry which represents two million employees. Dedicated to safeguarding the needs of the membership, FRLA provides legislative advocacy to ensure the voices of its members are heard and their interests are protected. The association offers regulatory compliance and food safety training through Safe Staff^® and FRLA’s subsidiary, RCS Training. The FRLA Educational Foundation provides industry-developed, career-building high school programs throughout the state.