Hospitality Happenings Celebrating National Tourism Week

We are proud to highlight the latest happenings in hospitality. This section is designed to serve as an update on our industry and provide a snapshot of what we’re accomplishing together. If you would like to share something significant that’s happening in your area, feel free to submit your story to editor@frla.org.

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1. The Navigating Through the Supply Chain event hosted by the Pinellas and Hillsborough Chapters offered perspective from Cheney Brothers, Sysco, Tradewinds Island Resort, Republic National, Green Market Cafe, Karol Hotel, US Foods and the Wyndham Grand. 2. Regional Director Dannette Lynch and Representative Ben Diamond enjoyed the National Tourism Week luncheon in St. Pete Beach. 3. The Collier Chapter held a timely Affordabe Housing Panel. 4. The Pinellas Chapter celebrated National Tourism Week! 5. Charlotte Chapter held a very well attended Craft Beer & Wine Fest. 6. At the Lee Chapter Golf Tourney the Best Dressed individual was Data Ninja Tim Dwiggins.

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FRLA's Summer Board Meeting was a success and really showcased some of our awesome sponsors. The networking event was hosted by the Miami-Dade Chapter, and we got a flavor of South Florida in hospitality, entertainment and food! Be sure to click here to see a recap video and here to view the General Counsel's Anti-Trust Rap!

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1. Gas South donated to AMOB's Dive Into Reading Program. 2. Nailah Nash and Chairwoman Olivia Hoblit enjoyed the reception. 3. Sheldon Suga, Hawks Cay and Nick Lowe get ready for the meeting to start. 4. (L-R)Jackie Tornes, EVP/GC Valls Group and FRLA Miami President; Julissa Kepner, GM of Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay and FRLA Miami board; Regional Director, Lynne Hernandez; Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle; Carmen Casabielle, Nat’l Sales Director of Imperial Dade, and FRLA Miami Board attended the event. Thanks so much for hosting! 5. Hireology reps shared info about their workforce solution.

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Meet Kandi Gardner

The New Panhandle Regional Director

Kandi Gardner is the newest member of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging team. Kandi joined us as the Panhandle Regional Director and officially started in early May.

Kandi holds a Master of Science in Performance Psychology from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland, U.K., and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Kandi has a background in motivation, aspiration and multidisciplinary performance. She has practiced in personal and professional development. She is a presenter and keynote speaker on subjects including Mindful Awareness Practice, Enhancing Guest Experience, Inspiration, Motivation and Self-regulation.

Kandi has conducted quality service assessments, designed targeted socio-emotional development programs and guest engagement workshops and experienced successful pilot programs in the U.S. and U.K. Kandi has been involved in project management since 2013 in commercial development and executive coaching and support. She is an engaging trainer with a transformational leadership style. Welcome Kandi!

Sandy St. John Retires from Alsco

Sandy St. John, longtime FRLA member and Alsco representative, is retiring after a 28-year-long career with the uniform and linen company. He first got involved with the Association in 1990 before he went to work with ALSCO. He has served FRLA in many capacities including as Board Member of the Suncoast (formerly Manatee/Sarasota) Chapter. Sandy will continue as an FRLA member going to work for his son’s business, Speed King Signs. Congrats and great job, Sandy!

David Mariotti

General Manager of the Year

Congratulations to FRLA’s Northeast Chapter board member, David Mariotti, for receiving the Remington Hotels’ General Manager of the Year Award!