Thank You to Our Back of the House Sponsors
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Build Your Hospitality Network at
CFHLA’s Upcoming Hob Nob
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Be sure to join CFHLA on May 21 at the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld (thank you, Brian Wander) for one of the industry’s most dynamic networking events. The Hob Nob is fast-paced and highly productive, featuring structured 3-minute introductory meetings that keep conversations focused and connections flowing.
Allied Members will have the opportunity to meet with dozens of lodging executives, while lodging members can connect with a wide range of members who are ready to support their properties projects and operational needs. It’s a super efficient event that will build relationships, discover new solutions, and make meaningful business connections, all at one morning!
To see what makes this event so impactful, CLICK HERE to watch a video highlighting last year’s Hob Nob and hear from participants about why it is a must-attend annual event.
Pricing:
Allied Members:
Option #1 - $430 per person (limit two representatives per company)
Option #2 – Package Deal - $600 (limit one representative per company)
(this includes one admission to the Signature Hob Nob in May & one admission to the second Hob Nob in November featuring properties from Lake, Seminole and East Orlando/UCF Area)
Lodging Members:
Complimentary
You may register up to 4 attendees from your property
(decision makers / executive-level team members requested)
To be included in the printed day of event program, please register by the end of the day today, Friday, May 1st.
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Orange County Sheriff John W. Mina Joins
CFHLA Vacation Ownership Council Meeting
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This week, CFHLA hosted our second Vacation Ownership Council meeting of 2026. The meeting featured an informative presentation from Orange County Sheriff John W. Mina, who shared valuable information on public safety and how the Sheriff’s office uses information from residents and technology to keep our community, residents, and tourists safe. We truly appreciate Sheriff Mina for his continued partnership and support of the region’s hospitality industry! We are also grateful for him taking the time to share his expertise with our Council.
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CFHLA would also like to once again thank our
2026 Vacation Ownership Council Sponsors, including:
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CFHLA Welcomes Lauren King to the Team
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Please join us in welcoming Lauren King to the CFHLA team as the new Executive Assistant to the President/CEO and soon-to-be Vice President of Membership and Operations. Lauren’s first official day will be next Monday, May 4th.
With more than a decade of professional experience within the hospitality industry, Lauren will be joining CFHLA from the Waldorf Astoria and Signia by Hilton Bonnet Creek, where she has held various roles, including Complex Group Sales Site Coordinator and Restaurant Sales and Private Dining Coordinator since 2015.
Lauren was awarded Hilton’s “Mastering the Art of Service Award” for consistently providing exceptional customer service in several capacities. Additionally, Lauren’s background in executive support, sales coordination, and operational logistics makes her a natural fit to join our team.
Next time you stop by our CFHLA office, please be sure to give Lauren a warm welcome to the team!
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CFHLA Security & Safety Council
Quarterly Service Award Honoree
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Last week, we recognized the first Security & Safety Council Quarterly Service Award winner of 2026, Jose “Jay” Maldonado, Security Officer at the Grove Resort & Waterpark.
Quick thinking and exceptional attention to detail made all the difference for Jay, whose actions helped bring a major organized retail theft ring to justice. While on duty, Jay recognized two individuals attempting to access the property that he had witnessed in a robbery days earlier. Thanks to Jay’s swift actions and strong situational awareness, his management team was able to work closely with local law enforcement to apprehend the suspects and maintain the safety of their guests and community members. Jay’s actions are a powerful example of vigilance, professionalism, and the impact of “See Something, Say Something.” We proudly recognize Jay for his outstanding service and dedication. Congratulations!
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Emerging Hospitality Leaders Gather for a
NextGen Leadership Council Reception
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This week, the CFHLA NextGen Leadership Council hosted a fun and dynamic reception at the Orlando World Center Marriott. These senior leaders from across the Central Florida hospitality industry gathered to mix, mingle, and make meaningful connections in a vibrant, upbeat setting. With plenty of camaraderie, engaging conversations, and a shared excitement for the future of the industry, the reception captured the enthusiasm that makes the hospitality and tourism industry such an exciting profession!
Once again, thank you to Council Chair Tyler Spaulding for hosting such a wonderful reception!
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Discovery Cove Launches New
Paradise Nights Summer Experience
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Discovery Cove has introduced Paradise Nights, a new after-hours summer dining experience offered Friday and Saturday evenings from June 5 through August 8. The limited-capacity event includes a sunset reception at Serenity Bay, a welcome cocktail or mocktail, animal ambassador appearances, an all-you-care-to-eat Caribbean dinner, and a live show featuring aerialists and fire knife performers.
Guests can also enhance their evening with a premium drink package or a limited-capacity sloth encounter. Tickets start at $117 for adults and $53 for children ages 3–9, with complimentary parking included. Daytime park admission is not required, making this a unique summer night out for both visitors and locals.
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Hilton Orlando Brings Cooking with Science
to Palm Lake Elementary
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Hilton Orlando recently visited more than 100 fifth-grade students at Palm Lake Elementary School for their second annual Cooking with Science event. During this interactive experience, students explored the connection between science and cooking by creating color-changing lemonade and Oobleck through demonstrations led by Hilton Orlando’s Chef Graham. Thank you to Hilton Orlando for continuing to inspire and engage local students through this exciting hands-on event!
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CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR MAY
MEMBERS OF THE MONTH
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CFHLA is proud to recognize our May Lodging Member of the Month, Richard Hess, Hotel Manager at Hilton Orlando. This recognition reflects his exceptional leadership, dedication, and passion for CFHLA and the broader Central Florida Hospitality Industry. Richard’s contributions have not gone unnoticed, as he has actively supported and participated in several CFHLA signature events and recent selection into the inaugural NextGen Leadership Council. Furthermore, his continued engagement and willingness to contribute his time and expertise have played an integral role in helping move our organization and the industry forward.
We are equally proud to recognize our May Allied Member of the Month, Kim Dvorscak, VP of Client Relations for Xpodigital, for her outstanding involvement as a CFHLA VIP Member! Additionally, her ongoing support of our community-wide initiatives, as well as participation and sponsorship of so many annual CFHLA signature events, has been a tremendous help to the association. She’s truly helped CFHLA reach new heights! Not to mention, we are thankful for the in-kind donation of the new digital TV’s that look fantastic in our CFHLA office!
It is through these positive contributions and continued partnership that we are eager to recognize both of them this month!
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Meet the VIP: Florida Patio Furniture
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Florida Patio Furniture is Florida's Largest Outdoor Furniture Manufacturer. We provide discount wholesale resort-style furniture, direct from the manufacturer, to all the major theme parks, hotel resorts, and waterparks nationwide. Family-owned and operated for over 35 years!
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Check out the latest hospitality employment opportunities in Central Florida.
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About CFHLA
6675 Westwood Blvd #210, Orlando, FL 32821
The mission of the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association is to represent the Central Florida Hospitality Industry, by setting the standard of excellence through advocacy, collaboration, education, recognition, and service.
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