State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle to Headline Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association’s Miami-Dade Chapter Meeting

Media Contact:
Elizabeth Ray
FRLA Communications Director
850.224.2250 x255
[email protected]

State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle to Headline

Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association’s Miami-Dade Chapter Meeting

-Fernandez Rundle to Raise Awareness for Human Trafficking in Hospitality Industry on Thursday, March 19^th–

(Miami, FL) – The Miami-Dade Chapter of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association is proud to host Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle as keynote speaker at a luncheon meeting on Thursday, March 19, 2015 at Jungle Island in Miami. The event is designed to raise awareness among local hospitality industry leaders about the dangers of human trafficking. In addition to the State Attorney’s remarks, FRLA President and CEO, Carol Dover and Troy Flanagan, AH&LA Vice President of State & Local Government Affairs will be present to give industry updates. Media is invited to attend.

“We have zero tolerance for human trafficking and are proud to help educate the hospitality community about preventative practices. We are glad to have State Attorney Fernandez Rundle share her wealth of knowledge on the subject and we encourage all of our colleagues in the industry to attend this event to assist in combating these horrific crimes,” said Dover.

Since March 1993, Katherine Fernandez Rundle has served Miami-Dade County as State Attorney. She prides herself in being a career crime fighter and has dedicated herself to every cause imaginable in her relentless commitment to keep our streets safe. She is recognized as a pioneer in the creation of numerous programs dealing with issues that affect our community daily such as teen truancy, domestic violence, child support, human trafficking, and victim’s rights.

WHAT:

FRLA’s Miami-Dade Chapter Luncheon

SPEAKERS:

Katherine Fernandez Rundle, State Attorney, Miami-Dade County

Carol Dover, President and CEO, Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA)

Troy Flanagan, Vice President of State & Local Government Affairs, American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA)

WHEN:

Thursday, March 19, 2015

11:30 AM – 1:30 PM

WHERE:

Jungle Island

1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, FL 33132

*Media invited to attend.

COST:

$35 per person, member and non-member rate

Please click here to view the event registration information.

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About the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association
FRLA is Florida’s premier non-profit hospitality industry trade association. Our mission is to ‘Protect, Educate and Promote’ Florida’s $76.1 billion hospitality industry which represents 23% of Florida’s economy, $4.6 billion in sales tax revenue, and nearly 1.1 million employees – making it the state’s number one industry. We offer regulatory compliance and food safety training needs (RCS and SafeStaff®); industry developed career-building high school programs (FRLAEF); sponsor the only event in Florida exclusively serving the restaurant and foodservice industry (FR&L Show, October 6-8, 2015 in Orlando); and we safeguard the needs of the hospitality industry by providing legislative advocacy. We represent and serve more than 10,000 independent and household name members, suppliers, and theme parks. For more information, go to www.FRLA.org and find us on Twitter @FRLAnews, Facebook and YouTube.

Chef Emeril Lagasse Tours Kissimmee on Latest Episode of Emeril’s Florida

Media Contacts:
Elizabeth Ray, [email protected], 850.224.2250 x255
Christina Johnson, [email protected], 850.391.5040

Chef Emeril Lagasse Tours Kissimmee on Latest Episode of Emeril’s Florida

– The Cooking Channel will feature three restaurants in Central Florida –

(Tallahassee, FL) – The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is proud to present this week’s episode of Emeril’s Florida airing Sunday, March 15, 2015, at 2:30 p.m. EST on the Cooking Channel. In Sunday’s episode, celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse travels to Orlando’s next-door neighbor, Kissimmee to tour three top-rated restaurants in the area.

“There’s no place like Kissimmee when it comes to delicious food. From gourmet restaurants offering exquisite dishes in elegant settings, to family-friendly eateries serving traditional Florida favorites in a laid-back atmosphere, there is something for every taste and every mood,” said Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. “The FRLA is thrilled this week’s episode of Emeril’s Florida highlights three restaurants in Kissimmee that offer unparalleled dining experiences and reflect a sample of the many different culinary styles and influences of the area.”

Emeril’s first stop on the “Kissimmee” episode begins at El Tenampa. El Tenampa is one of the highest rated Mexican restaurants in the area and has been serving authentic Mexican food since 2008. The food is representative of the Jalisco state of Mexico and Guadalajara, the state’s capital. The owners, Jorge and Angelica Garcia, are both from Jalisco and their menu includes family recipes they grew up eating. Some of their specialties include seafood platters, cactus dishes, authentic Mole, and frescos – fresh fruit juices made daily. Emeril samples these and other dishes from their menu.

Emeril’s next stop is the Bohemian Hotel in Celebration. The hotel is a boutique lakefront property known for its tranquil setting and elegant wedding coordination. The Bohemian Hotel has 115 guest rooms and suites and features a lobby inspired by nature and sophisticated Floridian elegance. On the property is the hotel restaurant, the Lakeside Bar and Grill that offers luxurious lakeside dining and an indulgent new menu. Chef Zachary Martin is the Executive Chef for the restaurant and was mentored by Emeril at his restaurants in New Orleans. Emeril and Chef Martin talk about how his menu has evolved while they taste some of the chef’s signature dishes including Grilled Blue Point Oyster, Truffle Salted Grilled Lobster, and Grilled Lamb T-Bone.

The final stop on the “Kissimmee” episode is Reunion Wyndham Grand Golf and Spa Resort. It is one of the premier tourist destinations in Kissimmee. The resort is a part of the Salamander Collection of Hotels, and is owned by BET mogul Sheila Johnson. Eleven is the fine dining restaurant within the resort. Eleven is named for its location on the eleventh floor of the main tower of the resort and it overlooks their 2300-acre property as well as Disney in the distance. Chef Etienne Jehl, a French born and trained chef, heads the kitchen and oversees a menu that includes lamb, steak, seafood and more. Emeril sits down with Chef Jehl to taste some of his favorite dishes.

The show reruns on Monday, March 16 at 9:30 a.m. EST and Thursday, March 19 at 10:30 a.m. EST. Please check local listings.

Emeril’s Florida Season Three is a 13-episode series highlighting the Sunshine State through the eyes of Emeril on-location with a focus on food, cooking, events and activities around the state. Throughout the third season, Emeril will be visiting Florida’s top restaurants and resorts. He will also prepare some of his favorite recipes which often will feature some of the best seafood Florida has to offer. The FRLA and VISIT FLORIDA sponsor the series. For additional information on the series, including links to previous episodes, please go to the Cooking Channel website here. For a preview of Sunday’s episode, click here.

Editor’s Note:
For photo and video requests of Emeril Lagasse with local chefs, photos of dishes prepared, and recipes of featured dishes, please contact Elizabeth Ray at [email protected] or 850.224.2250 x255, or Christina Johnson at [email protected] or 850.391.5040.

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Chef Emeril Lagasse Tours South Walton on Latest Episode of Emeril’s Florida

Media Contacts:
Elizabeth Ray, [email protected], 850.224.2250 x255
Christina Johnson, [email protected], 850.391.5040

Chef Emeril Lagasse Tours South Walton on Latest Episode of Emeril’s Florida

– The Cooking Channel will feature restaurants and events in the Florida Panhandle –

(Tallahassee, FL) – The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is proud to present this week’s episode of Emeril’s Florida airing Sunday, March 1, 2015, at 2:30 p.m. EST on the Cooking Channel. In Sunday’s episode, celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse travels to South Walton in the Florida Panhandle to tour two of his favorite restaurants and a few can’t-miss events that happen in the area.

“From fresh seafood pulled from Florida’s Gulf Coast to fusion cuisine showcased beside charming shops, South Walton is full of gourmet flavors for all tastes and budgets,” said Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. “FRLA is thrilled this week’s Emeril’s Florida episode features some of our favorite must-attend events and delectable dining options that continue to influence visitors to come to the Sunshine State.”

Emeril’s first stop on the South Walton episode is The Bay, a new concept by local chef, Jim Shirley. The family-friendly restaurant features southern Gulf coast cuisine, sushi, a 12-draft beer system, excellent wine selections, and inventive bar-crafted cocktails. Table and bar seating is available inside as well as outside on the deck overlooking the Choctawhatchee Bay. Emeril visits with Jim and samples some of his original creations including the Bomber Burger, Thai-Molly’s Homemade Corn Tamales, and Homemade Corn Tortillas filled with Spiced Fish or Korean Beef.

The next stop is Vin’tij Wine Boutique & Bistro, owned by Todd Reber and John Jacob. Their concept behind the restaurant is simple: serve the best food paired with the best wine. Emeril had the opportunity to try both. Partner Todd Reber and Emeril tour the restaurant’s wine offerings and sample some Todd’s favorites. Chef John Jacob, who is in charge of the cuisine at Vin’tij, sits down with Emeril to share some of his signature dishes including the Oyster BLT, Grilled Carolina Quail, and Grilled Ribeye.

Emeril then tours events that take place in South Walton throughout the year. He visits the South Walton Wine & Food Festival, one of the biggest events that takes place in the area. He gives viewers a glimpse into Fashion Week where guests can view the latest fashions while dining on local restaurant cuisine and champagne. He explores athletic events such as 10K runs, watches award-winning films under the stars at an outdoor film festival, and checks out the sights at the annual beer fest.

In the final segment in the episode, Emeril fishes for red snapper and then prepares a healthy salad and his catch of the day on a balcony overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.

The show reruns on Monday, March 2 at 9:30 a.m. EST and Thursday, March 5 at 10:30 a.m. EST. Please check local listings.

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Tourism Leaders Convene in Tallahassee to Celebrate Florida’s No. 1 Industry

Media Contact:
Elizabeth Ray
FRLA Communications Director
850.224.2250 x255
[email protected]

Tourism Leaders Convene in Tallahassee to Celebrate Florida’s No. 1 Industry
– The Partnership for Florida’s Tourism Holds Annual Tourism Day on March 11, 2015 –

(Tallahassee, FL) – The Partnership for Florida Tourism is proud to present Florida Tourism Day on Wednesday, March 11, 2015 in Tallahassee. The event is designed to educate the legislature, media and Floridians on the significant role tourism plays in the success of our state’s economy. According to preliminary estimates, 97.3 million visitors came to Florida in 2014. This is the fourth consecutive record year for visitation to Florida, exceeding the previous high of 93.7 million in 2013. The number of direct travel-related jobs in 2014 was also a record high, with more than 1.3 million Floridians employed in the tourism industry, up 3.6 percent from 2013.

Ten statewide organizations are scheduled to participate in the event and will host a downtown nighttime celebration that is open to the public. The street party will be held on Adams Street between College and Jefferson Streets where musical group The Free Wheelin’ Band will perform live beginning at 5:00 PM. Food vendors and downtown restaurants will provide refreshments for purchase. Last year, Florida Tourism Day drew more than 400 industry attendees, representing 44 Florida counties, who met with legislators and government leaders.

Participating organizations include: VISIT FLORIDA, Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, Florida Attractions Association, Florida Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds, Florida Association of Destination Management Organizations, Florida Association of Museums, Film Florida, the Florida Sports Foundation, Florida Cattleman’s Association and the Florida Department of Agriculture.

“It is truly incredible to see so many great leaders rally together here in Tallahassee to safeguard the needs and celebrate the achievements of industry which represents 23% of our state’s economy. As an industry, we are the state’s largest job creator and it is critical that we continue to work together alongside Governor Rick Scott and our state legislators to ensure visitors keep coming back for a fantastic hospitality experience that is exclusively offered here in Florida,” said Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association.

“2014 marked the fourth consecutive record year for Florida tourism. Given that we have the best tourism product on the planet, visionary public sector leadership from Governor Scott and the Florida Legislature, more than 1.1 million Floridians who provide exceptional service to our visitors every day, and highly impactful marketing programs from VISIT FLORIDA and our destination marketing partners across the state, Florida is well-positioned to become the No. 1 travel destination in the world,” said Will Seccombe, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA.

“Florida’s finest family attractions are excited to join with our industry partners to celebrate Florida’s unique position and reputation as the world’s preeminent tourism destination. With over one million Sunshine State residents employed in Florida tourism jobs, and over four years of unprecedented growth in visitor numbers, we look forward to an even brighter future for our industry,” said Bill Lupfer, President & CEO of the Florida Attractions Association.

“The Florida RV Park and Campground Industry is proud to be a partner in the 2015 Florida Tourism Day event. It’s important that all of us in the industry come together to recognize and celebrate the positive impact tourism has on Florida’s economy. Thanks to VISIT FLORIDA, The Partnership for Florida’s Tourism, and the support of Governor Rick Scott and our state legislators, Florida is well on the way to becoming the #1 travel destination in the world,” said Bobby Cornwell, President/CEO of the Florida Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds.

“Tourism marketing through VISIT FLORIDA and our county tourism promotion agencies is critical to maintaining Florida’s market share within the competitive market for tourists. Florida must continue to fund VISIT FLORIDA’s marketing efforts as well as protect the current uses of the Tourist Development Tax to continue attracting more visitors and creating good jobs for Floridians,” said Robert Skrob, Executive Director, Florida Association of Destination Marketing Organizations.

“The Florida Association of Museums is honored to be a partner in Tourism Day again this year and we look forward to building on the tremendous success of last year, with increased visitors and revenues for our great state,” said Malinda Horton, Executive Director of the Florida Association of Museums.

“It is well known that film, television and digital media are key components to promoting tourism in Florida. A recent survey conducted by VISIT FLORIDA showed 22.7% of domestic visitors to the state indicated viewing a movie or television series filmed in Florida contributed to their decision to travel here. We believe diversity in our state’s marketing efforts generates increased tourism, enhanced ROI numbers and positive economic development benefits,” said Michelle Hillery, President of Film Florida.

“A recent economic impact survey showed a $43 billion benefit to the state and a $5.6 return on investment for every dollar spent, which indicates the sports industry continues to prove itself as a viable economic driver for Florida. As strong contributors to the industry, we are looking forward to participating in this year’s Florida Tourism Day to highlight many of our great events that are sure to attract millions of visitors to the state,” said John Webb, President of the Florida Sports Foundation.

For media inquiries, please contact Elizabeth Ray at 850.224.2250 ext. 255 or via email at [email protected]. For the complete schedule of events on Florida Tourism Day, please click here.

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The Partnership for Florida’s Tourism is a grassroots coalition which began in 2006 designed to raise awareness of the importance of tourism and to increase public funding of tourism marketing. Key stakeholders in the tourism industry have joined in this effort. The Partnership is comprised of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, Florida Attractions Association, Florida Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds, Florida Association of Destination Management Organizations and VISIT FLORIDA.

Chef Emeril Lagasse Tours Downtown Restaurants in the Sunshine State On Latest Episode of Emeril’s Florida

Media Contacts:
Elizabeth Ray, [email protected], 850.224.2250 x255
Christina Johnson, [email protected], 850.391.5040

Chef Emeril Lagasse Tours Downtown Restaurants in the Sunshine State On Latest Episode of Emeril’s Florida

-Cooking Channel Highlights Florida Hotspots in Miami, St. Petersburg and West Palm Beach –

(Tallahassee, FL) – The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is proud to present this week’s episode of Emeril’s Florida airing Sunday, February 8, 2015, at 2:30 p.m. EST on the Cooking Channel. In Sunday’s episode, “Out on the Town,” celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse travels to downtown area hotspots in Miami, St. Petersburg and West Palm Beach.

“As a part of Florida’s number one hospitality industry, restaurants are closely tied to travel and tourism in our state,” said Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. “As Emeril takes viewers on his journey to stunning Florida restaurants serving inventive and unique cuisine, we trust that our more than 38,000 eating and drinking establishments will continue to fuel the appeal of the Sunshine State to visitors.”

Emeril’s first stop in the “Out on the Town” episode is Meat Market, a glamorous take on the traditional steakhouse located in Miami’s South Beach. The restaurant offers high-quality cuts of meat, delectable seafood, and fresh produce all under the supervision of Executive Chef Sean Brasel, known for his use of local ingredients. Meat Market also features a crudo bar that serves fresh tiraditos in addition to a traditional bar celebrated for its handcrafted cocktails. Emeril talks with Chef Brasel about the restaurant and samples some of his favorite entrees including Foie Gras Torchon, Asian BBQ Lamb Ribs, and Buffalo Tenderloin Steak with Chili Espresso Rub.

Next, Emeril travels to downtown St. Petersburg for a stop at The Birchwood Inn. The restaurant at The Birchwood is Birch & Vine, an award winning farm-to-table concept on the bottom floor of the 1924 building, with The Canopy Rooftop Lounge resting in the heart of St. Petersburg’s waterfront, complete with private cabanas, fire pits, living room seating and high top tables. A St. Petersburg native, Executive Chef Jason Cline heads up the culinary program and has created a globally inspired menu using locally grown organic ingredients. Chef Cline sits down with Emeril to taste some of the establishment’s signature dishes.

Hullabaloo, a unique restaurant that calls itself an “Italian Gastropub,” is Emeril’s third stop this episode. Hullabaloo is located in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach in the center of a busy dining and entertainment district. The establishment serves innovative, farm-to-table cuisine that pairs perfectly with their signature craft cocktails and extensive beer and wine selections featuring unique vineyards and microbreweries. Hullabaloo boasts an urban setting with the sounds of 1940’s music during the evening, and Indie Rock late at night. Emeril meets with Executive Chef and General Manager Fritz Cassel to discuss his restaurant concept and try a few of his popular menu items including Braised Pork Shoulder with a Porcini Mushroom Risotto and Thin Crust Pizza with Spec Ham, Gouda Cream Sauce, Goat Cheese and Arugula.

The show reruns on Monday, February 9 at 9:30 a.m. EST and Thursday, February 12 at 10:30 a.m. EST. Please check local listings.

Editor’s Note:
For photo and video requests of Emeril Lagasse with local chefs, and recipes of featured dishes, please contact Elizabeth Ray at [email protected] or 850.224.2250 x255, or Christina Johnson at [email protected] or 850.391.5040.

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FRLA’s Broward Chapter Raises Funds to Support Hospitality Education for Local High School Students

Media Contact:
Elizabeth Ray
FRLA Communications Director
850.224.2250 x255
[email protected]

FRLA’s Broward Chapter Raises Funds to Support Hospitality Education for Local High School Students

– Thousands of Dollars in Scholarships, Textbooks Awarded –

(Ft. Lauderdale, FL) – The Broward Chapter of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association is proud to support local high school students by awarding thousands of dollars in scholarships to further their hospitality education. In Broward County, there are 22 high schools with more than 6,500 students enrolled in school-to-career training programs provided by the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association’s Educational Foundation (FRLAEF).

“These students are the future of Florida’s hospitality industry and we feel it’s important to extend our efforts to ensure they receive opportunities to build the foundation for fantastic careers,” said Eduardo Fernandez, the President of the Broward Chapter and General Manager of the Sonesta Fort Lauderdale. “In 2015, we plan to continue encouraging students in our community to pursue their dreams and help give them the ability to do so.”

In 2014, FRLA’s Broward Chapter hosted its Excellence in Education Gala, awarding 18 students with scholarships and recognizing Vicky Edgcomb as Teacher of the Year. As an instructor at South Broward High School, Edgcomb leads students through industry-derived curriculum, the Hospitality and Tourism Management Program (HTMP), which prepares students for roles in the hotel industry and beyond. Later in the year, Edgcomb identified a need for more student textbooks and FRLA’s Broward Chapter stepped up to provide the necessary materials for the program to continue. Additionally, the Broward Chapter hosted an internship fair for students across the county which gave them the opportunity to make connections with a dozen employers who help lead the industry. In total, the local chapter raised $35,000 for hospitality education.

“I love the hospitality field because it is such a growth area in this part of the country and it is the perfect field for students who want an exciting career that knows no boundaries,” said Edgcomb. “I would like to thank the FRLA for providing resources, phenomenal business partners and field trip opportunities for the students. You will never know how important this is to their growth overall.”

This year, FRLA’s Broward Chapter will host its 6th Annual Excellence in Education Gala on Wednesday, April 8th, at the historic Diplomat Resort & Spa in Hollywood, Florida, to once again honor teachers, schools and award scholarships to promising students pursuing hospitality careers. The keynote speaker will be Broward Superintendent of Schools, Robert Runcie. The local chapter recently announced scholarship opportunities for students graduating in 2015, who are eligible to receive awards at the event. For more information about available scholarships, please contact Broward Chapter Director, Anne Sallee at [email protected] or FRLAEF Director Laura Rumer at [email protected].

To learn more about FRLA’s Broward Chapter, please visit http://frla.org/chapters/broward/welcome.

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FRLA Congratulates National Restaurant Association’s Dawn Sweeney, Named One of America’s “Most Powerful People in Food”

Media Contact:
Elizabeth Ray
FRLA Communications Director
850.224.2250 x255
[email protected]

FRLA Congratulates National Restaurant Association’s Dawn Sweeney,
Named One of America’s “Most Powerful People in Food”

(Tallahassee, FL) The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association is thrilled to congratulate the National Restaurant Association’s (NRA) President and CEO Dawn Sweeney, who was named one of 2015’s “Most Powerful People in Food” by The Daily Meal. This marks the third year in a row Sweeney has earned a top spot on the list.

“Dawn is one of the restaurant industry’s greatest advocates, an innovative leader who works tirelessly to ensure more than one million establishments and industry employees across the nation are well represented,” said Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. “We are proud to work closely with Dawn to help protect and promote the industry. There is no doubt this recognition is well-deserved.”

The Daily Meal recognized Sweeney’s leadership in directing NRA’s key initiatives such as its Kids LiveWell nationwide children’s nutrition program; Conserve, the Association’s sustainability initiative; and the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation ProStart program which runs in nearly 2,000 high schools across the country and provides culinary scholarships to thousands of future restaurant and foodservice leaders.

The list of the top 50 recipients is compiled by The Daily Meal editors with the criterion that these individuals substantially impact the quality and variety of the American diet or the way Americans think about it. Included in this year’s list are heads of national food processing and distribution companies and retail food outlets, agribusiness moguls, tech gurus and recognized restaurateurs.

As President and CEO of the National Restaurant Association, Sweeney leads the primary business association for the restaurant industry. The National Restaurant Association represents multiple foodservice concepts, including quick service, fast casual, managed foodservice, casual and fine dining – along with manufacturers, suppliers and distributors – for an industry of one million restaurant and foodservice outlets and 14 million employees.

Sweeney also serves as the CEO of the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, a philanthropic foundation dedicated to enhancing the industry’s service to the public. The Foundation’s major goal is to prepare students for rewarding careers in restaurant management and the culinary arts.

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Tallahassee Restaurants to Offer Fantastic Food at Mouth-Watering Prices During Capital Cuisine Restaurant Week May 14-26

Media Contact:
Elizabeth Ray
FRLA Communications Director
850.224.2250 x255
[email protected]

Tallahassee Restaurants to Offer Fantastic Food at Mouth-Watering Prices During Capital Cuisine Restaurant Week May 14-26
-Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association Proud Partner of 4^th Annual Event-

(Tallahassee, Fla.) – The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is delighted to partner with Visit Tallahassee and VISIT FLORIDA for the fourth annual Capital Cuisine Restaurant Week, May 14 – 26, 2015. During the 13-day event, fresh seafood, farm-to-table creations, fusion fare and tasty tapas will be showcased on multi-course prix fixe menus starting at $15 for lunch and $30 for dinner at many of the area’s local restaurants. In addition to the mouth-watering restaurant specials, Tallahassee will be the backdrop to musical performances held throughout the Week.

“Capital Cuisine Restaurant Week is a great way for Tallahassee restaurants to show off what this great city has to offer to the palettes of residents and visitors alike,” said Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. “Tallahassee’s culinary offerings continue to expand, and this event provides participants unique and diverse dining experiences in which to showcase our member restaurants.”

Last year, more than two dozen establishments participated in the event, and FRLA sponsored three concerts attended by hundreds of Tallahasseans. This year promises even more participation of both restaurateurs and residents who have been wanting to try local fare.

FRLA urges restaurant owners and chefs to join this unique experience. To learn how you can get involved, please contact FRLA’s Northwest Florida Regional Director Ray Green at 850-545-5901 or by e-mail at [email protected]. You may also contact Visit Tallahassee’s Marketing Communications Director Lauren Shoaf Pace at 850-606-2322 or by e-mail at [email protected].

For additional information such as participating restaurants and their menus, visit http://www.visittallahassee.com/capital-cuisine-restaurant-week-concert-series.

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About the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association
FRLA is Florida’s premier non-profit hospitality industry trade association. Our mission is to ‘Protect, Educate and Promote’ Florida’s $76.1 billion hospitality industry which represents 23% of Florida’s economy, $4.6 billion in sales tax revenue, and more than one million employees – making it the state’s number one industry. We offer regulatory compliance and food safety training needs (RCS and SafeStaff®); industry developed career-building high school programs (FRLAEF); sponsor the only event in Florida exclusively serving the restaurant and foodservice industry (FR&L Show, October 6-8, 2015 in Orlando); and we safeguard the needs of the hospitality industry by providing legislative advocacy. We represent and serve more than 10,000 independent and household name members, suppliers, and theme parks. For more information, go to www.FRLA.org and find us on Twitter @FRLAnews, Facebook and YouTube.

Hospitality Industry Leader to Share Insights on How Restaurants and Hotels Can Appeal to Millennials

Media Contact:
Elizabeth Ray
FRLA Communications Director
850.224.2250 x255
[email protected]

Hospitality Industry Leader to Share Insights on How Restaurants and Hotels Can Appeal to Millennials
– Former Miller’s Ale House Executive VP to Present at Local Chapter Event on April 29^th –

(Tallahassee, Fla.) – The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is proud to host hospitality industry consultant, Dave Reid, at its upcoming Pinellas and Hillsborough Chapter meeting. The event is scheduled to take place at the St. Petersburg Marriott Clearwater from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM on Wednesday, April 29, 2015. Reid, a 30-year restaurant and hotel industry veteran, is slated to share a presentation titled “How Restaurants and Hotels Can Maintain an Increasing Awareness of the Largest Generation in the Country… Millennials!”

“Dave Reid is an incredibly gifted speaker, with industry insights that are invaluable to our friends in the hospitality business,” said Carol Dover, FRLA President and CEO. “As millennials continue to change the marketplace, it is crucial that owners and operators in the local community understand how to reach them, and Dave knows from first-hand experience what works. This is an event you won’t want to miss.”

Dave Reid is the former Executive Vice President of Operations for Miller’s Ale House Restaurants. He was with the company for more than 21 years, growing four restaurants to 70 restaurants in 10 states, with 300 managers and more than 6,000 employees. Prior to that role, he worked with T.G.I Friday’s, Pier 66 Hotel and Limelight Atlanta. Reid also served as FRLA’s former Chairman of the Board in 2011, and has played a vital role on the association’s Board of Directors for more than 15 years.

WHAT:
FRLA Pinellas and Hillsborough Chapter Meeting

SPEAKER:
Dave Reid, Former Executive VP of Operations, Miller’s Ale House
“How Restaurants and Hotels Can Maintain an Increasing Awareness of the Largest Generation in the Country… Millennials!”

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 29, 2015
11:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Registration and Networking
12:00 – 1:30 PM: Luncheon and Presentation
*Media is Invited to Attend

WHERE:
St. Petersburg Marriott Clearwater
12600 Roosevelt Boulevard North
St. Petersburg, FL 33716

COST:
$23 Per Person (members and non-members)

To register for the event, please email [email protected] or click here to see the event flyer. Please RSVP by Monday, April 27^th.

About the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association
FRLA is Florida’s premier non-profit hospitality industry trade association. Our mission is to ‘Protect, Educate and Promote’ Florida’s $76.1 billion hospitality industry which represents 23% of Florida’s economy, $4.6 billion in sales tax revenue, and more than one million employees – making it the state’s number one industry. We offer regulatory compliance and food safety training needs (RCS and SafeStaff®); industry developed career-building high school programs (FRLAEF); sponsor the only event in Florida exclusively serving the restaurant and foodservice industry (FR&L Show, October 6-8, 2015 in Orlando); and we safeguard the needs of the hospitality industry by providing legislative advocacy. We represent and serve more than 10,000 independent and household name members, suppliers, and theme parks. For more information, go to www.FRLA.org and find us on Twitter @FRLAnews, Facebook and YouTube.

FRLA Strengthens Local Efforts By Launching Greater Pensacola Chapter and Welcoming New Area Director

Media Contact:
Elizabeth Ray
FRLA Communications Director
850.224.2250 x255
[email protected]

FRLA Strengthens Local Efforts By Launching Greater Pensacola Chapter and Welcoming New Area Director
– Kickoff Meeting Scheduled for April 22^nd at McGuire’s Irish Pub –

(Tallahassee, Fla.) – The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is strengthening its efforts in the panhandle with the launch of a Greater Pensacola Chapter. The kickoff meeting for the new chapter is scheduled for Wednesday, April 22, at McGuire’s Irish Pub in Pensacola. FRLA is proud to announce John Bloodworth will lead the team. As the Chapter Director, Bloodworth will help support members, mobilize operations and bolster ongoing communications between FRLA headquarters and local offices. He will join FRLA’s four current regional directors, a regional manager and two other chapter directors who represent more than 20 chapters across the state.

“We understand that many of the battles that impact a business’s bottom line are hard fought at the local level and we are proud to help represent our members located in the Greater Pensacola area,” said Carol Dover, FRLA President and CEO. “This community is filled with some of the best in the hospitality industry and with John’s local expertise, we are excited for what’s to come.”

Bloodworth joins FRLA with more than twenty years of successful experience in sales and account management. He most recently worked as the Panhandle and North Florida Sales Executive for Coca-Cola North America, where he worked with small to medium-sized restaurant chains in Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Panama City, Destin and the Pensacola area. Rooted in the community, Bloodworth teaches Business Communication, Public Speaking and Mass Communication at the University of West Florida. He holds a Master’s Degree in Communication from the University of Georgia and a law degree from Georgia State University.

During the meeting, FRLA President/CEO Carol Dover and former FRLA Chairman Bruce Craul are scheduled to share industry insights and provide a legislative update. The event is free and open to FRLA chapter members and non-members. Media is invited to attend.

WHAT:
Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association Greater Pensacola Kickoff Chapter Meeting

SPEAKERS:
FRLA President and CEO, Carol Dover
Legendary Hospitality COO and former FRLA Chairman, Bruce Craul

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
10:15 AM – 12:00 PM
*Media is Invited to Attend

WHERE:
McGuire’s Irish Pub
600 E. Gregory Street
Pensacola, FL
To register for the event, please email [email protected] or click here to see the event flyer.

About the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association
FRLA is Florida’s premier non-profit hospitality industry trade association. Our mission is to ‘Protect, Educate and Promote’ Florida’s $76.1 billion hospitality industry which represents 23% of Florida’s economy, $4.6 billion in sales tax revenue, and more than one million employees – making it the state’s number one industry. We offer regulatory compliance and food safety training needs (RCS and SafeStaff®); industry developed career-building high school programs (FRLAEF); sponsor the only event in Florida exclusively serving the restaurant and foodservice industry (FR&L Show, October 6-8, 2015 in Orlando); and we safeguard the needs of the hospitality industry by providing legislative advocacy. We represent and serve more than 10,000 independent and household name members, suppliers, and theme parks. For more information, go to www.FRLA.org and find us on Twitter @FRLAnews, Facebook and YouTube.