$1 Million in Scholarships Awarded to High School Students Participating in Florida ProStart Competition

ORLANDO, Fla. (March 6, 2018) – The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association Educational Foundation (FRLAEF) is proud to congratulate the winners of the 18th Annual Florida ProStart Competition which was held Saturday, March 3 and Sunday, March 4, 2018 at the Rosen Plaza Hotel in Orlando.

A total of 50 schools participated in the competition with 15 schools winning top awards throughout the day’s events. More than $1 million in scholarships was distributed to the winning students. All winners and participants are a part of Florida’s ProStart program, a career technical education program where high school students learn from an industry-derived curriculum that teaches culinary techniques and restaurant management skills. More than 20,000 students from across the state are enrolled in the program. The four main event competitions included: the Johnson & Wales University Culinary Competition, The Art Institute Management Competition, the Keiser University Edible Centerpiece Competition, and the Waiters Relay Competition.

East Ridge High School in Clermont won first place in the overall competition. Tarpon Springs High School in Tarpon Springs took home second place in the overall competition, with John A. Ferguson High School in Miami placing third.

“These talented students represent the future of Florida’s hospitality industry and we are extremely proud to help support their education by awarding more than $1 million in scholarships. We are passionate about investing in these inspiring, young leaders of the trade and are thrilled to celebrate their incredible talents and pursuit of successful careers,” said Carol Dover, President & CEO of the FRLA.

Overall Competition Winners
1st Place: East Ridge High School
Instructors: Ken Pitts & Christopher Dwyer
2nd Place: Tarpon Springs High School
Instructor: Cathleen Ryan
3rd Place: John A. Ferguson High School
Instructors: Janett Toledo, Jorge Garcia & Jebel Cordoba
4th Place: Northeast High School
Instructors: John Beck & Curtis Serata
5th Place: Leto High School
Instructor: Debra Hladky

Johnson & Wales University Culinary Competition Winners
Participating teams demonstrated their creative abilities during the competition through the preparation of a meal consisting of: starter (such as soup, salad or appetizer), protein (such as meat, fish or fowl), starch, vegetable, and dessert.
1st Place: Leto High School
Instructor: Debra Hladky
2nd Place: Eastside High School
Instructors: Pam Bedford & Sarah Waters
3rd Place: East Ridge High School
Instructor: Ken Pitts
4th Place: Tarpon Springs High School
Instructors: Cathleen Ryan, Tony DeVincenzo & Vincent Pesce
5th Place: John A. Ferguson High School
Instructor: Janett Toledo, Jorge Garcia & Jebel Cordoba

The Art Institute Management Competition Winners
Participating teams demonstrated their knowledge of the restaurant and foodservice industry by developing a business proposal for a new restaurant concept. The business proposal consisted of a defined restaurant concept, supporting menu, and supporting marketing plan. Teams prepared a comprehensive written proposal, verbal presentation and visual display.

1st Place: East Ridge High School
Instructors: Ken Pitts & Christopher Dwyer
2nd Place: Northeast High School
Instructors: John Beck & Curtis Serata
3rd Place: John A. Ferguson High School
Instructor: Janett Toledo, Jorge Garcia & Jebel Cordoba
4th Place: Holmes County High School
Instructor: April Coe
5th Place: Tarpon Springs High School
Instructor: Cathleen Ryan

Keiser University Edible Centerpiece Competition Winners
Participating teams demonstrated their creative ability during the competition through the preparation of an edible centerpiece consisting of fruits and vegetables. Contestants explained nutritional information, product availability, and preparation techniques.

1st Place: Tarpon Springs High School
Instructor: Cathleen Ryan
2nd Place: Estero High School
Instructor: Jeremy Jasper
3rd Place: Eustis High School
Instructor: Nicole Austin
4th Place: Northeast High School
Instructors: John Beck & Curtis Serata
5th Place: Mainland High School
Instructors: Jason Kester & Troy Logan

Waiters Relay Competition Winners
Participating teams demonstrated their ability to duplicate a table setting while racing against the clock.

1st Place: South Lake High School
Instructors: Candy Huxhold & John Thunberg
2nd Place: Leon High School
Instructors: Christine Beam & Karen Stribling
3rd Place: John A. Ferguson High School
Instructors: Janett Toledo, Jorge Garcia & Jebel Cordoba
4th Place: St. Lucie West Centennial High School
Instructors: Calvin Lewis & Christina Gedke-Balaschak
5th Place: Lake Minneola High School
Instructors: Nick Sandora & Lance Bowles

First-place teams from the management and culinary competitions will advance to the prestigious National ProStart Invitational, April 27-29, 2018, in Providence, Rhode Island.

FRLA Welcomes New Chairman and Executive Committee

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (January 19, 2018) – The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is proud to announce its incoming 2018 Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee. Kevin Speidel, vice president of resort operations with Hilton Grand Vacations (NYSE:HGV), began serving as FRLA’s new Chairman effective Jan. 1. Speidel presides over FRLA, one of the state’s largest trade associations, representing more than 10,000 members in the hospitality industry.

Speidel is an industry veteran with nearly 30 years’ experience. He joined HGV in 2016 prior to its spin-off from Hilton. In his role at HGV, Speidel provides strategic leadership for the company’s resort operations, rental sales and rental marketing teams across the globe. In addition, he is instrumental in overseeing the planning and execution process for opening new resorts.

Prior to his current role, Speidel served as an area managing director with Hilton for more than a decade, and oversaw hotel and resort operations for Hilton, Doubletree, Embassy Suites and Waldorf Astoria properties throughout South Florida.

“Kevin Speidel is a demonstrated leader who has devoted his entire career to providing an exceptional lodging experience. Kevin is highly regarded in the hospitality industry, and FRLA is extremely fortunate to have a professional of his stature lead our association through 2018. We’re excited at the opportunity to have Kevin serve alongside our 2018 Executive Committee and confident the Association will continue to flourish with their direction,” says Carol Dover, president and CEO, FRLA.

“I am proud to have the opportunity to serve as Chairman of Florida’s premier non-profit hospitality trade association,” says Speidel. “My primary goal will be to empower members to participate in advocacy efforts and inspire collaboration across the tourism industry to improve and influence communities throughout the state. I look forward to another outstanding year for Florida’s hospitality industry.” Speidel holds a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management from Lynn University and completed the General Manager Excellence program at Cornell University.

FRLA congratulates the following 2018 Executive Board Members:

2018 FRLA Executive Committee
Chairman of the Board
Kevin Speidel, Hilton Grand Vacations, Orlando
Vice Chairman of the Board
Alan Palmieri, Marlow’s Tavern, Orlando
Secretary-Treasurer
Sheldon Suga, Hawks Cay Resort, Duck Key
Restaurant Director for 2018-19
Jim Shirley, Great Southern Café, Santa Rosa Beach
Lodging Director 2018-19
Olivia Hoblit, Seaside Amelia Inn (Innisfree Hotels), Amelia Island
Restaurant Director 2018
Cathie Koch, Bloomin’ Brands Inc., Tampa
Immediate Past Chairman
Don Fox, Firehouse of America, LLC, Jacksonville

Learn more about the 2018 FRLA Executive Committee here.

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Carol Dover Releases Statement on Short Term Rentals

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) today released the following statement from Carol Dover, President and CEO, in response to today’s press conference on short term rentals.

“FRLA’s more than 10,000 members represent a wide range of lodging accommodations, from bed and breakfasts and independent operators to corporate chains, who all share one common goal – keep visitors coming to Florida. While it’s absolutely critical in this day and age for our industry to embrace modern rental technology, unregulated short-term rentals pose a serious risk to both our tourists and residents. We urge our lawmakers not to put Florida’s world-class lodging reputation at risk for illegal commercial operators. FRLA looks forward to continuing the conversation and working closely with our legislators to protect our visitors and consumers.”

Florida’s Hospitality Industry Goes Blue in January to Combat Human Trafficking

(Tallahassee, Fla.) – The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) announced today its proud support of the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Blue Campaign to combat human trafficking. During the month of January, which is recognized by Presidential Proclamation as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, FRLA encourages its 10,000 members consisting of hotels, restaurants, suppliers, theme parks and attractions to be vigilant when it comes to combating human trafficking in the State of Florida. Florida’s hospitality industry can take a stand against human trafficking by raising public awareness, recognizing the signs and reporting suspected instances.

On January 11, FRLA’s employees and 10,000 members will join others across the nation to participate in the Blue Campaign’s “Wear Blue Day.” On this day, by wearing blue and contributing to the campaign on social media using the dual hashtags #JoinFRLA #WearBlueDay, the industry will stand in solidarity with victims of human trafficking, raise awareness, and inspire efforts to work together to eradicate this crime.

“With 113 million visitors coming to our state each year, Florida’s hospitality industry must serve as a leader in the fight to combat human trafficking. We strongly encourage our 10,000 members to join us in this important fight and to #JoinFRLA #WearBlueDay on January 11. Our entire industry must work diligently to raise public awareness and provide the necessary tools to protect victims from this atrocious crime,” said Carol Dover, President and CEO of the FRLA.

Industry resources available to help combat human trafficking are available at FRLA.org/human-trafficking-prevention.

Padgett Joins Government Relations Team at the FRLA

(Tallahassee, Fla.) – The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is excited to announce the recent addition of Samantha H. Padgett as General Counsel. Padgett joins FRLA’s stellar Governmental Relations team, currently led by Richard Turner, who will assume a new title as Senior Vice President of Legal and Legislative Affairs. Padgett will perform legal functions, provide legal advice and strengthen the association’s advocacy efforts at the state and local levels. Across the state, the FRLA represents and serves more than 10,000 independent and household name members, including theme parks and attractions.

“We’re extremely proud to have Samantha H. Padgett join our team. Padgett is a well-respected professional in Tallahassee circles and across the state. I’m confident her legal expertise and experience will enhance the Florida hospitality industry’s presence,“ said Carol Dover, President and CEO of the FRLA.

Previously, Padgett served for ten years as the Vice President and General Counsel of the Florida Retail Federation (FRF). Padgett is a member of The Florida Bar and received her J.D. degree cum laude from the University of Florida College of Law in 2005, and received her B.A. from Emory University in 2001. She also volunteers as a Board Member on the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors, University of Florida Center for Retailing and the Florida Recycling Partnership.

Padgett will begin her role with FRLA in mid-January 2018 and be based at FRLA’s headquarters in Tallahassee.

Local FRLA Chapters Host “Hiring Rock Stars: How to Build an Iconic Team” Event Featuring Nationally-Renowned Speaker and Author Jim Knight

(St. Petersburg, FL) – The Hillsborough, Pinellas and Suncoast Chapters of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA), is excited to feature Jim Knight, a nationally-renowned speaker and training and development veteran of more than 30 years, at their upcoming Hiring Rock Stars: How to Build an Iconic Team event. This educational workshop is scheduled for Tuesday, October 31, 2017 at the The Vinoy® Golf Club in St. Petersburg. Knight will energize hospitality industry professionals with his rock ‘n’ roll spirit and discuss key strategies to build a strong rock star team.

Jim Knight is the bestselling author of Culture that Rocks: How to Revolutionize Your Company’s Culture. Knight is the Founder & Owner of Knight Speaker and a Founding Partner/Owner in CareersForward, a restaurant management recruiting company. Knight cut his teeth in the training field, starting out in the snack bar at Gatorland Zoo and as a restaurant staff-level employee for Olive Garden and then Hard Rock Cafe. He eventually became the head of the School of Hard Rocks, running point on all learning & development functions for Hard Rock International. Read full bio here.

Media is invited to attend. Event details are as follows:

WHAT: FRLA Regional Chapters’ Hiring Rock Stars: How to Build an Iconic Team

WHEN: Tuesday, October 31, 2017

WHERE:
The Vinoy® Golf Club
600 Snell Isle Boulevard
St. Petersburg, FL 33704

AGENDA:
8:30 AM                      Registration Opens
9:00 AM                      Breakfast & Networking
9:30 AM                      Keynote Presentation: Jim Knight
11:00 AM                    Event Concludes

COST:
FRLA Member Attendee – $30 Per Person
Future Member – $35 Per Person
REGISTER HERE

This event is open to the public and proudly sponsored by PrimeNet and VISIT FLORIDA.

For media inquiries, please contact Erin Power, FRLA Press Secretary at 850.224.2250 x255 or by email at [email protected].

Nashville’s Top Songwriters Free Concert Tour Begins in Northwest Florida

(Fort Walton Beach, FL) – The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) and VISIT FLORIDA, in conjunction with Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI) and ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals is thrilled to present a free concert series on Wednesday, October 25 through Saturday, October 28, 2017 throughout various locations in Northwest Florida.

The music series event, supported will showcase Nashville songwriters who will sing country’s biggest hits and share the stories behind the songs. The FRLA is the leading sponsor of these concert performances through its Nashville Songwriters Florida Sunshine Tour Music Series program designed to promote the local tourism and hospitality industry throughout the year. This series is also a part of the Great Florida Events program supported by FRLA and VISIT FLORIDA, which promotes in-state tourism.

The concert lineup features acoustic performances by Aaron Barker, Even Stevens and Chris Wallin. Their songwriter resumes boast songs for chart-topping artists such as George Strait, Blake Shelton, Toby Keith, Trace Adkins, Garth Brooks, Montgomery Gentry, Neal McCoy, Brad Paisley, Eddie Rabbit, Joe Cocker, Tim McGraw, Kenney Chesney, Martina McBride, George Jones, Dolly Parton, Conway Twitty, Tom Jones, The Oak Ridge Boys, Kenny Rogers, Crystal Gayle, The London Symphony Orchestra, Willie Nelson, Locash, Lonestar, and many more.

Nightly concerts will be held in the evenings, beginning at 6:00pm at numerous venues across Northwest Florida. A weekend show will begin at 1:00pm. The public is invited to attend these free performances.

TOUR SCHEDULE:
Wednesday, October 25, 2017
6:00 PM
30Avenue
12805 US 98
Inlet Beach, FL 32413

Thursday, October 26, 2017
6:00 PM
The Bay
24215 US Highway 331
Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

Friday, October 27, 2017
6:00 PM
Al’s Beach Club & Burger Bar
1450 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

Saturday, October 28, 2017
1:00 PM
The Pointe
10711 East County Highway 30A
Rosemary Beach, FL 32461

Click here for more details about the songwriters, event schedule and accommodations.

FRLA SUPPORTS HURRICANE RELIEF EFFORTS AND CELEBRATES FLORIDA’S HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY STARS

(Orlando, Fla.) – The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) joined together to celebrate hospitality’s finest and to highlight the exceptional service delivered by the stars of the industry. FRLA announced its 2018 Executive Committee and unveiled its 2017 Hall of Fame along with other industry award winners.

During the event, which took place at the Hyatt Regency Orlando, on Wednesday, October 11, 2017, FRLA included a special tribute to the industry’s Hurricane Irma response, recovery and relief efforts. The silent auction beneficiary for this evening was the Florida Disaster Fund, the State of Florida’s official private fund established to provide support to Florida’s communities in times of disaster.

Kevin Speidel, Vice President of Resort Operations for Hilton Grand Vacations (HGV) was named FRLA’s 2018 Chairman of the Board. Speidel will preside over the FRLA, one of the state’s largest trade associations, representing more than 10,000 members in the hospitality industry.

FRLA congratulates its newly elected executive board and Hall of Fame award winners.

2018 FRLA Executive Committee:
Kevin Speidel	Chairman	Hilton Grand Vacations, Orlando
Alan Palmieri	Vice Chair	Marlow’s Tavern, Orlando
Sheldon Suga	Secretary-Treasurer	Hawks Cay Resort, Duck Key
Jim Shirley	Director 2018-19	Great Southern Café, Santa Rosa Beach
Olivia Hoblit	Director 2018-19	Seaside Inn (Innisfree Hotels), Amelia Island
Cathie Koch	Director 2018	Bloomin’ Brands Inc., Tampa
Don Fox	Immediate Past Chair	Firehouse of America, LLC, Jacksonville

In addition, Hall of Fame Awards were given to individuals who have attained career distinctions of the highest level and were recognized for distinguished service to their industry, community, charitable organizations and family. The 2017 Hall of Fame is as follows:

2017 Restaurateur of the Year: Andrew Reiss, Tallahassee: To call Andy Reiss anything but a Tallahassee legend would be an understatement. Elected officials, students and Tallahassee residents alike recognize Andy not only as a creator of delicious food, but also as an engaged and considerate employer. At a time when most restaurants were moving away from the Capitol in downtown Tallahassee, Reiss seized an opportunity. Believing the time was right for Tallahassee’s first New York-style delicatessen, he opened The Deli in November 1972. Through the subsequent 45 years, Reiss’ restaurant concepts included Andrew’s 2nd Act, Maxin’s, Tutto Bene, Andrew’s Upstairs, Andrew’s Catering, Trio, Andrew’s Capital Grill & Bar, and Andrew’s 228. Reiss has advocated for the restaurant industry and Downtown Tallahassee throughout his career. He was FRLA’s first Chairman of the Board from Tallahassee in 2013 and 2015. Appointed by 4 different governors, he served 24 years on the DBPR Hotel and Restaurant Advisory Council. Andrew helped found and chaired the Tallahassee Convention and Visitors Bureau, currently known as Visit Tallahassee.

2017 Hotelier of the Year: Don Seaton, Clearwater Beach: The late Don Seaton was a hotelier by profession. He and his wife Nan owned, developed, built and operated four hotels in Clearwater Beach, one in Crystal River, and two in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Mr. Seaton was not only a successful businessman, but was also involved in his community and was devoted to Florida’s tourism industry. His Florida contributions included two terms as President of the Greater Clearwater Innkeepers Association, three terms as Vice Chairman of the Pinellas County Tourist Development Council, terms as Secretary, Treasurer, Board of Directors and Chairman of the Florida Hotel & Motel Association, and as Director and Chairman of the Board of Best Western International. He was honored as the Florida Hotel & Motel Association’s Hotelier of the Year, received the Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Lifetime Achievement Award, and was a two-time Paul Harris Fellow of the Clearwater Beach Rotary Club.

2017 Supplier of the Year: UnitedHealthcare: UnitedHealthcare, represented by Kimberlee Vandervoorn, is a strong supporter of the hospitality industry. It offers exclusive health care pricing and solutions for every size FRLA member business, including a soon-to-be available NRA Association Plan option for fully insured small business groups. Since 2009, UnitedHealthcare has worked with the National Restaurant Association and the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association in a strategic alliance to help provide easier access to cost-effective health care coverage and related products and services for the hospitality industry. UnitedHealthcare features an expansive network of more than 1 million physicians and care professionals, and 6,000 hospitals and other care facilities nationwide; various online tools and resources; and a range of wellness programs designed to help improve employee health, productivity and retention.

2017 Special Honoree Randy Spicer: Randy Spicer was truly a friend to the industry. Randy worked 23 years for Prudential Insurance Company then was hired by Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield in Little Rock where he spent the next ten years as President and CEO of their subsidiary, First Pyramid Life. Randy and his wife Diane then resided in Southlake, Texas with him working for UnitedHealthcare. When he passed away on March 20 of this year, he was working for the National Restaurant Association as Vice President of Health Insurance Services. After multiple years of hard work, Randy had very recently completed a significant project developing with UnitedHealthcare, an NRA Association Trust Plan for small hospitality business. Randy was driven by the desire to create access to affordable health insurance for restaurant employees. His legacy will carry forward for years to come.

At the event, FRLA also announced annual award categories to recognize exceptional service throughout the state: Restaurant General Manager of the Year, Hotel General Manager of the Year, Restaurant Employee of the Year, Hotel Employee of the Year and Chef of the Year. Nominees and winners were chosen by a panel of independent industry judges.

Restaurant General Manager of the Year

Jonathan Miller, Restaurant Manager, Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando *WINNER

Edson Canua, Director of Outdoor Dining, Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

Gregg Podraza, Managing Partner, Tijuana Flats

Hotel General Manager of the Year

Jim McManemon, General Manager, Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island *WINNER

Heidi Dennis, General Manager, The Pelican Grande Beach Resort

Oliver Key, Area General Manager, The St. Regis Bal Harbour

Restaurant Employee of the Year

Kelita Williams, Line Cook, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cocoa Beach Oceanfront *WINNER

Heather Ann Smith, Service Director & Training Coordinator, The Edison Restaurant / Cascade Holdings

Tuong (Hirano) Ly, District Head Chef, Kobe Japanese Steakhouse

Hotel Employee of the Year

Evelyn Wilson, Guest Services Agent, Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach *WINNER

Carmencita Tsuchigane, Public Space Attendant, The Sandpearl Resort

Cassie Williams, Laundry Supervisor, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cocoa Beach Oceanfront

Chef of the Year

Dan Dunn, Executive Chef, Hilton Pensacola Beach, Innisfree Hotels *WINNER

Gregory McGowan, Executive Chef, Hyatt Regency Pier Sixty-Six

Matthew Slattery, Executive Chef, The Southernmost Beach Resort

FRLA Educational Foundation Garrett M. Hughes Student of the Year

Juana Pascual, Martin County High School, Stuart *WINNER

Michael Adams, Lecanto High School, Lecanto

Samuel Torres, Dunnellon High School, Dunnellon

Find event photos here.

Study Reveals Economic Impact of Miami Beach Ordinance on Local Businesses

(Miami Beach, Fla.) – Today, Fishkind and Associates released a study outlining the economic impact on Miami Beach if a Miami Beach Commission approved an ordinance to implement a ban on sales of alcohol on Ocean Drive after 2:00 AM is passed by voters.

The report entitled “Economic Impact of Proposed Ban on Sales of Alcoholic Beverages from 2:00 AM until 5:00 AM on Ocean Drive,” specifically outlines the negative economic impact the ordinance would have on the city and its taxpayers if passed.

The report, which was commissioned by the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA), details a loss of more than $340 million in sales revenues – translating to a loss of more than $19 million annually to the City in property, resort and sales taxes and shifting the burden of these lost city revenues onto local taxpayers. The report also indicates a potential loss of more than 5,500 jobs as a result of immediate and cascading effects of the late-night ban.

“The ballot referendum which will ban alcohol sales on just a few businesses on Ocean Drive will have far-reaching negative economic effects for Miami Beach taxpayers and businesses,” said Hank Fishkind economist with Fishkind and Associates. “After a full economic impact study, we found that direct and cascading revenue losses to local businesses will top $340 million dollars. This loss in sales from tourists will result in millions in lost tax revenue for the city, a significant loss in jobs and lower property values.”

Additional highlights from “Economic Impact of Proposed Ban on Sales of Alcoholic Beverages from 2:00 AM until 5:00 AM on Ocean Drive,” include:

• There will be cascading losses in sales to nearby hotels and restaurants with Dr. Fishkind estimating a 15% reduction in Ocean Drive restaurant sales and 10% reduction for nearby business sales, resulting in upward of $341 million in lost income to local restaurants, clubs, and hotels.

• Ocean Drive and nearby hotels will also see a decline due to the curb on late-night entertainment, resulting in a loss of upwards of $225 million in lost hotel revenues.

• The city will see an $19.6 million hole in their budget, as a result of lost tax dollars usually paid by tourists.

• The loss of sales and profits realized as a direct result of the ban and translates to a loss of more than 5,500 jobs in city bars, restaurants, and hotels.

“This ordinance will severely alter a formula that has proven successful and allowed hotels and restaurants to flourish. If this destructive measure passes, jobs will be lost and taxpayers in the City of Miami Beach will be responsible for footing the bill for the millions of dollars in lost tax revenue,” said Carol Dover, President & CEO of the FRLA.

After the Storm: Hurricane Irma Relief Efforts Underway

First and foremost, we hope that you and your loved ones are safe. The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) is working closely with Governor Scott, State and local officials and industry partners to begin relief efforts. To assist with the recovery process, FRLA has compiled the following resources:

Ask for help. As a part of the FRLA family, we want to make sure you’re safe. Reach out and let us know your status and needs. If you have any questions of FRLA or need additional information on recovery assistance contact [email protected] for non-emergencies.

Report your status and complete a damage assessment. Report your open/closed business status, complete a business damage assessment survey and request or offer resources. Businesses may also report their status to [email protected] and via the Private Sector Hotline is 850-410-1403. Get registered here.

Aid those in need. Prior to the storm, FRLA members rapidly responded to urgent requests from the Salvation Army to address an increased need for food at local shelters. Thank you for your support and if you are interested in assisting with recovery efforts contact [email protected] prior to determine local need.

Learn re-entry requirements. Now that the storm has passed, individuals and businesses seeking to provide essential commodities and services to impacted areas will be allowed re-entry by possessing and presenting specific documentation to local officials. Learn what you need. For up-to-date traffic information, FL511.com or call 511.

Get help with your insurance claims. FRLA’s Insurance Council is comprised of trusted agency advisors who understand our members’ needs. Check out the list here. The Florida Division of Consumer Services offers assistance to insurance consumers in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma by offering the insurance Consumer Helpline 1-877-693-5236. Learn more.

Secure a low-interest disaster loan. If you are located in a declared disaster area, you may be eligible for financial assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). SBA provides low-interest disaster loans to businesses of all sizes, private non-profit organizations, homeowners and renters. Apply online. For questions call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 or email [email protected].

Eligible Florida Counties as of September 11, 2017:
The disaster declaration covers the counties of Charlotte, Collier, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Pinellas and Sarasotain Florida which are eligible for both Physical and Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the SBA. Small businesses and most private non-profit organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans: Broward, Desoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Pasco and Polk in Florida.

Apply for assistance from FEMA. Use the address lookup to find out if you qualify for financial assistance. Fill out the questionnaire and online aid application or call 1-800-621-3362. To get help in person, find a Disaster Recovery Center near you.

Provide emergency accommodations and have compassion for cancellations. Lodging operators are strongly encouraged to waive cancellation fees and to not require minimum stays for displaced evacuees, first responders and utility workers. Those seeking available lodging may reserve by brand here and/or find available rooms here. All lodging operators are also encouraged to support the Emergency Lodging Assistance (ELA) program recently activated by FEMA to assist those affected by Hurricane Irma. The ELA is for individuals and families who have been recently displaced by the recent weather events. Sign-up now. Lodging properties may call 1-866-545-9865 for assistance. Individuals or families searching for lodging may contact FEMA at 1-800-621-3362.

Extend hospitality to pet evacuees. FRLA strongly urges its members, and the industry at large, to consider waiving normal pet restrictions and fees for displaced evacuees seeking shelter. Search for pet-friendly lodging on BringFido.com or PetFriendlyTravel.com.

Food safety tips. Power outages and flooding both pose a risk to the integrity of food and water. For a guide to food safety during severe storms, visit the USDA or Florida’s Division of Hotels and Restaurants to learn guidelines for emergency recovery. Monitor local government alerts for boil water notices.

Common employer questions during a hurricane. Check out Hurricane-Related FAQs for Florida employers provided courtesy of JohnsonJackson, LLC.

Report price gouging. As the entire state of Florida is under a declared state of emergency, Florida’s price gouging law applies statewide. Learn how to comply and/or report violations online or via the Attorney General’s Price Gouging Hotline at 1-866-966-7226.

Donate to the disaster fund. Governor Rick Scott has activated the Florida Disaster Fund to support individuals who are impacted by Hurricane Irma. The Florida Disaster Fund helps provide financial support to Florida’s communities in times of disaster. Contribute online or text DISASTER to 20222 to make a one-time donation of $10. For questions contact [email protected] or call (850)-414-7400.

Share your stories with us. Florida’s hospitality industry must continue to answer the call to help those in need. Reach out to [email protected] to share how your restaurant, lodging property, attraction and/or business provided assistance before, during and after Hurricane Irma.

For additional updates, visit www.floridadisaster.org follow the State Emergency Response Team @FLSERT on Twitter and Facebook.

For a complete list of resources as they become available and a comprehensive guide on how to recover and rebuild, visit FRLA’s Hurricane Resource Center.