TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (SNN TV) – Tuesday, a Suncoast restaurateur was named Chairman of the Board of the state restaurant and lodging association.
The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association(FRLA) announced the installation of its 2024 Board of Directors Executive Committee, and John Horne, the Owner of Anna Maria Oyster Bars in Bradenton and Café L’Europe in Sarasota, was named the Chairman.
“Having the honor to serve a second term in this esteemed role is a thrilling opportunity to further support the hospitality professionals of the great state of Florida,” said FRLA Board Chairman John Horne. “As we continue to prioritize statewide and federal advocacy on behalf of our industry, I draw inspiration from the millions of Floridians that FRLA members employ, whether they are culinarians, front desk workers, bartenders, or engaged in any role imaginable…we have a tremendous Executive Board who will work extra hard knowing they depend on us in 2024.”
The 6 new board members bring nearly 250 years of combined experience in hospitality.
FRLA’s 2024 Board of Directors Executive Committee is comprised of:
• Chairman: John Horne, Owner of Anna Maria Oyster Bars, Bradenton, and Café
L’Europe, Sarasota
• Vice Chairman: Nick Sarra, Partner & Chief Executive Officer, Saltwater Restaurants,
Inc., Florida Panhandle
• Secretary/Treasurer and Lodging Director: Greg Cook, Luxury General Manager, The
Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island
• Lodging Director: Barbara Bowden, Area Managing Director for Loews Hotels at
Universal Orlando
• Restaurant Director: Henry Delgado, Managing Partner, Smith and Wollensky
Restaurant Group, Miami Beach
• Restaurant Director: Chuck Prather, President, Birchwood Development (The
Birchwood, Birchwood Canopy, Birch & Vine), St. Petersburg
• Immediate Past Chairwoman: Olivia Hoblit, Director of Lodging, World Equestrian
Center, Ocala
