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.

WASHINGTON – The U.S. House of Representatives has passed Donalds bill H.R. 5103 – “The Bipartisan Fishery Improvement to Streamline untimely regulatory Hurdles post Emergency Situation Act (FISHES) Act,” by voice vote.

“The Bipartisan FISHES Act” is broadly-supported, bipartisan legislation to improve the federal regulatory process associated with the allocation of fishery disaster relief. Specifically, this commonsense and solutions-oriented bill seeks to expedite the distribution of federal disaster relief following official fishery disaster declarations–which the State of Florida has requested seven times since 2012.

H.R. 5103 is the twenty-sixth piece of legislation sponsored by Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) that has passed the U.S. House of Representatives during the 118th Congress. The legislation has received the support of 160 endorsing entities including 107 organizations, and fifty-two members of the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) is the sponsor of “The Bipartisan FISHES Act” Senate companion bill.

“Following Hurricane Ian, Southwest Florida’s seafood industry incurred catastrophic devastation and its impact still persists,” said Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL). “Waterways are the lifeblood of our economy and our community. It has always been my commitment to advocate for the vitality of water—which ultimately benefits countless families, businesses, and the overall development of the Sunshine State. I am proud to receive the broad, bipartisan support of my colleagues on this critical proposal and look forward to its successful passage on the floor of the United States Senate.”

“During a time of natural disaster, time can often be the difference between life and death,” said House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR). “For our nation’s fisheries, delays in disaster requests can cause catastrophic destruction to these vital resources and coastal communities. Today, we passed Congressman Donalds’ FISHES Act which will create timelines for disaster requests to ensure our fisheries can be supported when natural disasters strike. I’d like to thank Congressman Donalds for his leadership on this issue for all Americans.” 

Bill Support:

• 107 Supporting Organizations:
  • Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission;  Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission; Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission; American Sportfishing Association; Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies; Bonefish and Tarpon Trust; Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation; FL Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission; National Audubon Society; Captains for Clean Water; American Conservation Coalition Action; Angler Action Foundation; Marine Industries Association of SWFL and Tampa Bay; Gulf Shellfish Institute; Florida Guides Association; National Association of Charterboat Operators; Southern Offshore Fishing Association; Coastal Conservation Association; Center for Sportfishing Policy; The Nature Conservancy; International Game and Fish Association; Reef Life Foundation; Resource Development Council for Alaska; National Fisheries Institute; Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen’s Association; BoatU.S.; Fish is America; Panama City Boatman’s Association; Association of Marina Industries; Southeastern Fisheries Association; North Carolina Fisheries Association; Louisiana Shrimp Association; Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish Shareholders’ Alliance; Southern Shrimp Alliance; South Carolina Shrimpers Association; Diving Equipment and Marketing Association; Pontchartrain Conservancy; Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association; Everglades Trust; Marine Retailers Association of the Americas; Organized Fishermen of Florida; North Florida Marine Association; Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County; Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership; Marine Industries Association of the Treasure Coast; Charter Fishermans Association; Destin Charter Boat Association; Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council; Florida Stone Crab Association; Fishing Communities Coalition; Gulf Fisherman’s Association; Florida Commercial Watermen’s Conservation; Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber; Sanibel and Captiva Chamber of Commerce; United States Shrimpers Coalition; United Fishermen of Alaska; Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association; Cape Cod Commercial Fishermen’s Alliance; Alaska Longline Fishermen’s Association; Marine Industries Association of Florida; Golden State Salmon Association; Georgia Commercial Fisherman Association; National Marine Manufacturers Association; Audubon Florida; Ocean Conservancy; Conservancy of SWFL; Cypress Chapter Izaak Walton League of America; Bergeron Everglades Foundation; Oceana; Texas Shrimp Association; North Carolina Watermen United; Blue Water Fishermen’s Association; Alabama Commercial Fisherman Association; Wildlife Forever; Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation; Florida Retail Federation; FL Shore & Beach Preservation Association; Florida Ocean Alliance; The Billfish Foundation; Virginia Restaurant, Lodging & Travel Association; Michigan Boating Industries Association; East Farm Commercial Fisheries Center of Rhode Island; Maine Lobstermen’s Association; Mote Marine Laboratory; Cordova District Fishermen United; Midwater Trawlers Cooperative; National Marine Distributors Association; Restore America’s Estuaries; Seafood Harvesters of America; Purse Seine Vessel Owners Association; Mississippi Commercial Fisheries United; American Bird Conservancy; Pacific Seafood Processors Association; Alaska Bering Sea Crabbers; Virginia Watermans Association; New England Young Fishermen’s Alliance; New England Fishermen’s Stewardship Association; Port Arthur Area Shrimpers’ Association; National Restaurant Association; Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S.); Major League Fishing; American Shrimp Processers Association; Guy Harvey Foundation; Pacific Northwest Waterways Association; Oregon Trawl Commission; Massachusetts Lobstermen’s Association; and North American Marine Alliance

• 48 Bipartisan House Cosponsors:

  • Representatives Mary Peltola (D-AK), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), Neal Dunn (R-FL), Troy Carter (D-LA), Troy Nehls (R-TX), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), James Moylan (R-GU), Stacey Plaskett (D-VI), John Rutherford (R-FL), Daniel Webster (R-FL), Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL), Auma Amata Coleman Radewagen (R-AS), Brian Mast (R-FL), Clay Higgins (R-LA), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Glenn Grothmann (R-WI), Anthony D’Esposito (R-NY), Nick LaLota (R-NY), Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon (R-PR), Randy Weber (R-TX), Nancy Mace (R-SC), Don Davis (D-NC), Russell Fry (R-SC), Jerry Carl (R-AL), Michael Waltz (R-FL), Jared Huffman (D-CA), Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Seth Magaziner (D-RI), Greg Steube (R-FL), Josh Harder (D-CA), Brett Guthrie (R-KY), Salud Carbajal (D-CA), Tom Kean Jr. (R-NJ), Jim Costa (D-CA), Mike Lawler (R-NY), Dean Phillips (D-MN), Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL), Bill Posey (R-FL), Lois Frankel (D-FL), David Rouzer (R-NC), Kevin Mullin (D-CA), Laurel Lee (R-FL), Carlos Gimenez (R-FL), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX), and Timothy Kennedy (D-NY) 

• 4 Senate Supporters:
  • Senate-lead Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL); Senators Lisa Murkowski (R- AK), Marco Rubio (R-FL), and Dan Sullivan (R-AK)

More:

• See full text of the Donalds FISHES Act HERE.
• See Congress.gov bill profile of the Donalds FISHES Act HERE.
• See Congress.gov bill profile of the Scott Senate companion HERE.
• See Donalds-Scott Joint Op-Ed in Support of FISHES Act HERE.
• See bill summary graphics of the Donalds FISHES Act below:

TALLAHASSEE – Today, the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) shared a statement from its President & CEO, Carol Dover, on the passing of Central Florida hotelier Harris Rosen, whose lifetime of dedication to Florida’s hospitality industry has had significant impacts in Central Florida and across the state.

Statement from Carol Dover:

“Today, Florida’s hospitality industry mourns the loss of one of its most iconic leaders, our dear friend Harris Rosen. FRLA’s longtime board member and our 2009 Hotelier of the Year, Harris transformed Central Florida’s hospitality landscape through his visionary leadership and unyielding commitment to excellence. He set the standard for innovation and guest service, turning his dream into an empire that became a cornerstone of Orlando’s tourism industry. His remarkable career is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that defines our industry. Beyond his business acumen, Harris was a philanthropist at heart. His unwavering dedication to improving lives – from investing in education initiatives like the UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management – to generously supporting health care and disaster relief efforts – exemplified the profound impact one individual can have on a community. Harris Rosen’s legacy will endure not only through the hotels that bear his name, but also through the countless lives he touched. On behalf of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, and all who had the privilege to know him. His contributions to Florida’s hospitality industry and his philanthropic spirit will never be forgotten, and we are so grateful to him for his lifetime of leadership and generosity.”

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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Ocala, FL– Rock The Country, the two-day event – A Festival For We The People – will be returning to Ocala, FL on May 9-10, 2025, as the major country festival makes its official road trip across the country. Stopping in 10 cities along the way, Ocala will mark the fourth stop of the summer. 2025 is going to be a year that will go down in history, as Rock The Country will be bringing the best of both worlds together in uniting the country legend, Kid Rock, and the ultimate rockstars, Nickelback. With the country and rock genres joining forces, Rock The Country will truly be rocking the country all summer long.

Headlining ALL ten Rock The Country festivals are none other than rock legends themselves—Nickelback, the chart-topping superstars, and Kid Rock, the one and only original American bad ass. Lineups will vary by market. The lineup for Ocala will feature powerhouse artists including: Hank Williams Jr., the legendary Tracey Lawrence, one of the hottest up and comers in country music, Gavin Adock, Jo Dee Messina, Diamond Rio, Mark Chesnutt, Sammy Kershaw, Little Texas, Hudson Westbrook, Logan Crosby, Afroman, Ying Yang Twins and Dee Jay Silver.

Rock The Country saw an incredible turn out in 2024 in Ocala. With attracting over 30,000 fans – almost 25,000 were visitors from outside Marion County. Overall, Rock the Country generated
$17.7 million in new Marion County output and $5.2 million in new earnings for Marion County workers. Rock The Country is excited to bring the event back to Ocala, and make an even bigger
impact to Marion County in 2025.

“We are thrilled to be welcoming back Rock the Country to Ocala/Marion County in 2025,” said Marion County Commissioner Carl Zalak, III. “Having an event of this magnitude in our
community is not only exciting for locals, but also brings more visitors to the area, putting our county on the map for hosting impressive entertainment.”
“It’s this simple, Rock The Country isn’t just a music festival, it’s a movement,” said Kid Rock. “It’s a place for hard working, God-fearing patriots to gather as one and celebrate freedom,
music and the party of the year.”

“We’re really looking forward to hitting the road and visiting some amazing towns, especially in places we’ve never played before. There’s something special about connecting with fans in these
communities, and we’re ready to bring our best and truly rock the country. Can’t wait to see you all out there!” said Michael Kroeger of Nickelback.

Rock The Country kicks off in April of 2025. The ten locations and dates of Rock The Country are the following:
● Livingston, LA – April 4 & 5 at Livingston Fairgrounds
● Knoxville, TN – April 25 & 26 at Greenback’s Maple Lane Farms
● Poplar Bluff, MO – May 2 & 3 at Brick’s Off Road Park
● Ocala, FL – May 9 & 10 at Florida Horse Park
● York, PA – May 30 & 31 at York Expo Center
● Hastings, MI – June 13 & 14 at Barry Expo Center
● Little Rock, AR – June 20 & 21 at Arkansas State Fairgrounds
● Ashland, KY – July 11 & 12 at Boyd County Fairgrounds
● Sioux Falls, SD – July 18 & 19 at WH Lyon Fairgrounds
● Anderson, SC – July 25 & 26 at Anderson Sports and Entertainment Center

Public ticket sale begins Friday, November 15, 2024, at 10:00am CST. Along with GA, VIP and Elevated Reserved Seating, there will be RV and Car camping available at each venue. Hotel packages are also available this year. All tickets can be purchased at rockthecountry.com.

BUY TICKETS HERE

“We’re thrilled to see Rock The Country grow into events that unite small-town America and celebrate the values that make our communities strong,” said Shane Quick, Senior Promoter & Partner of Peachtree Entertainment. “These festivals not only bring people together for incredible music and unforgettable experiences, but they also drive significant economic impact for local businesses, underscoring our commitment to supporting these hometowns in 2025,” added Nathan Baugh, CEO & Partner of Peachtree Entertainment.

In addition to announcing the lineup, Rock The Country has officially launched the 2025 Hometown Hero campaign where local residents can nominate someone that goes above and
beyond in serving their community every day. The winner of the Rock The Country 2025 Hometown Hero in each market will receive the ultimate VIP experience at their local show,
including a backstage tour and the opportunity to lead the Pledge of Allegiance on stage. For more information and to nominate a Hometown Hero, please go to: RTC Hometown Hero.
Rock The Country has teamed up with Folds of Honor, a leading non-profit organization that provides educational scholarships to the children and spouses of America’s fallen or disabled
military service members and first responders. Rock The Country is on a mission to help support our local veterans, and make a difference. Join Rock The Country and Folds of Honor in making
your contribution when you purchase your tickets. All donations will go towards local organizations in Ocala as well as organizations such as Folds of Honor in support of our
veterans.

For more information about Rock The Country, including the full lineup and ticket details, visit www.rockthecountry.com.

ABOUT PEACHTREE ENTERTAINMENT:
Peachtree Entertainment is a nationally acclaimed concert promoter committed to spotlighting rising talent. With over 15 years of expertise in the music industry, Peachtree Entertainment has earned its reputation as a leader and innovator in live music. As pioneers in identifying and nurturing new talent, Peachtree Entertainment has played a key role in launching the touring careers of artists like Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Luke Bryan, Gavin Adcock, and many more. Beyond tours, Peachtree’s outdoor event portfolio features iconic gatherings such as Rock The South, Rock The Country, Live At The Station, Bulls Bands and Barrels, among many others. Peachtree Entertainment is a joint venture with LiveCo, a leading private equity-backed entertainment
company producing over 3,000 live shows annually across multiple genres. Together, they contribute to shaping the live entertainment landscape, delivering unforgettable experiences nationwide and internationally. Peachtree Entertainment remains dedicated to shaping the national country music scene, continuing its legacy of significant influence and success. 

PUBLICITY CONTACTS
Cassie Zebisch-Schienle | [email protected]
Holly Lollar | [email protected]
MARKETING CONTACTS
Holly Doscher | [email protected]
Andrew Chatwood | [email protected]
LOCAL PARTNERSHIP CONTACTS
Cait Belber | [email protected]
SPONSORSHIP CONTACTS
Makenzie Krigbaum | [email protected]

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TALLAHASSEE, Fla.- FEMA has activated Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) for Floridians displaced by Hurricane Helene or Hurricane Milton in 52 counties and for tribal members of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians.

Residents in these counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA. Applicants do not need to request this assistance. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message, and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance.

Applicants may be eligible if they cannot return to their disaster-damaged home and their housing needs cannot be met by insurance, shelters or rental assistance provided by FEMA or another agency.

Under the TSA program, FEMA pays the cost of room, taxes and non-refundable pet fees directly to participating hotels and motels. Pet fees will only be paid up to the approved limit of assistance for individual rooms. Survivors are responsible for all other costs, including laundry, restaurant/room service, parking, telephone or movie rental. 

Continued eligibility is determined on an individual basis. When eligibility ends, survivors will be notified by FEMA seven days prior to checkout date.

TSA is limited to participating hotels and motels in Florida, Alabama and Georgia. Applicants must refer to the TSA Locator to find a hotel, which will be visible to them when they go to DisasterAssistance.gov.  

TSA participants may also be eligible for other FEMA financial help, including Displacement Assistance, Rental Assistance, Home Repair Assistance and other aspects of the Individual Assistance program.

Floridians can apply for either storm online at DisasterAssistance.gov. They can also apply using the FEMA mobile App or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand calls to FEMA’s helpline are experiencing delays because of the increased volume due to multiple recent disasters. The fastest way to apply is online or through the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube. 

For the latest information about Florida’s Hurricane Helene recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834.Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

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~FRLA continues to urge all hotels to reduce or waive no-pet policies they may have in place to support evacuating families ~

Those doing so are encouraged to complete DBPR’s Lodging Pet Fee Waiver Info Sheet below

DBPR’s Lodging Pet Fee Waiver Information Sheet

CLICK HERE to view a list of those self-reporting their participation