(Ocala, Fla.) – On June 14, the Florida Agricultural Center & Horse Park (FHP) Board of Directors unanimously approved Carol B. Dover, President & CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) to serve as its Chair. Dover, who has served on the FHP Board of Directors since its inception fills the vacant Chair position for the remainder of the current term ending December 31, 2017. Other members elected to the FHP Executive Committee include: Lonny Powell, 1st Vice Chair, Edward McNamara, 2nd Vice Chair, Jim Strickland, Secretary and Joseph M. O’Farrell III, Treasurer.
The Florida Agriculture Center and Horse Park is a 500-acre, multipurpose facility located in Ocala-Marion County that provides a world-class setting for equestrian events throughout the year. With a 79,500-square-foot all-weather arena, seven regulation dressage arenas, over 100 obstacles and stabling, the park is quickly becoming a hub for the state’s equine activities. FHP was established by Florida Statute 570.685 to provide the state and community with a facility to host outside, equestrian and non-equestrian events, giving preference to, and promoting education of, equine and agriculture related events.
“I’m honored to have been selected by my peers to serve as the Chairman of the Florida Agricultural Center & Horse Park. Every challenge presents an opportunity, and as I serve in this new role, I’m determined to reinvigorate our stakeholders, promote a positive workplace culture, and maintain fiscal responsibility and transparency. As a passionate equestrian, I’m excited to work together with our local and state partners to effectively promote FHP as the premier venue for agricultural, equine, and community events,” said Carol B. Dover, President & CEO of the FRLA.
Dover has served as President & CEO of the more than 10,000 member Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) since July of 1995. Dover also serves as a member of the Board of Directors for the National Restaurant Association, Council of State Restaurant Associations, International Society of Hotel Association Executives, VISIT FLORIDA, Florida State University College of Business Board of Governors and Florida TaxWatch.