Tourism Works for Florida
Join FRLA on March 13 as we gather at the Capitol to show state legislators, media, and our fellow Floridians the significant impact tourism has on our state’s economy. Tourism Day kicks off at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center and concludes with the Florida Tourism Day Street Party. Online registration closes next Tuesday, March 6, so register now for $55. Day-of registration will be $70.
FRLA is proud to have 17 chapters across the Sunshine State, and we have been busy planning events for everyone. Whether you enjoy a clay shoot and networking or a dinner cruise and education on issues facing your community, your local FRLA chapter has something for you. READ MORE
The FRLA Government Relations team has been hard at work identifying the issues we anticipate addressing in the 2019 Legislative Session. With a new Cabinet, House, and Senate, there will be plenty of work to do. READ MORE
The CDC has updated the warning issued last week regarding romaine lettuce. Consumers are now urged to avoid romaine from the Central Coastal region of California. If you do not know where the lettuce was grown, you should avoid eating or serving it. This is great news for Florida farmers as their crops are now deemed safe. READ MORE
Hurricane Michael Recovery Underway: On Oct. 10, 2018, Hurricane Michael slammed into the Panhandle and brought record-setting winds and devastation to the region. FRLA has worked alongside our incredible members and partner agencies to assist in recovery in a variety of ways. Whether we are working shoulder-to-shoulder with members to feed first responders and survivors or disseminating information to members who experienced losses in the storm, the FRLA family is committed to ensuring Northwest Florida comes back better than ever. For a list of resources for you, your business, and your staff, please visit FRLA.org/hurricane-resources.
WHO’S IN YOUR CABINET?: In November, Florida’s entire Cabinet is up for election. Check out the overview of the races our Governmental Relations team has put together and ensure the vote you cast is an informed one! Read it now.
FRLA Launches Free Online Training: FRLA is proud to announce a FREE online training program specifically designed to help hospitality workers combat human trafficking in their establishments. Human traffickers operate in every category and across all price points in our industry, and we have a responsibility to protect victims and our businesses. Learn more about trafficking and the free training program here.
FRLA Members Bring Community Together to Help Eastpoint Fire Victims: FRLA member Proof Brewing Company hosted a bottle share fundraiser in collaboration with the Tallahassee Beer Society, Eastpoint Beer Company and Oyster City Brewing Company to raise money for Eastpoint fire victims. FRLA member Willie Jewell’s Old School Bar-B-Q, Shell Oyster Bar and Barber’s Seafood also provided food for the event. The fire destroyed three dozen homes, six of which belonged to the staff of FRLA member Blue Parrot Oceanfront Cafe in Saint George Island. With more than 50 attendees, the event raised $2,200 for the cause.
FRLA Members Collaborate & Create Memories at Summer Board Meeting: FRLA held its 2018 Summer Board Meeting at the Casa Marina Key West, a Waldorf Astoria Resort June 11-13. Members built the future of Florida hospitality through collaboration and engagement as part of committees and councils. Attendees enjoyed Key West’s signature hospitality, with a conch crawl and fishing tournament hosted by FRLA’s Monroe Chapter, as well as dinner on the resort’s private beach.
The Influencer Series Drives Discussion, Featuring FRLA President & CEO: In this important election year, the Miami Herald, el Nuevo Herald and Bradenton Herald want to drive a discussion on the important issues facing the Sunshine State. They’ve assembled a panel of 50 influential Floridians, including FRLA President & CEO Carol Dover, who will offer their views through the November elections. Meet the Influencers here and see how they responded to the initial question: “What is the biggest single challenge our leaders must confront to secure a better future for Florida?”