In the News - June 2025

2025 State of Orange County Address

CFHLA was proud to be the host sponsor once again, for the 2025 State of Orange County Address presented by Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings.

Thank you to all of the sponsors, CFHLA Members and elected officials who joined us this morning at the Orange County Convention Center, as well as those who joined us virtually on Orange TV's streaming broadcast.

During the address, we were thrilled to hear the positive news that the Central Florida hospitality and tourism industry drew 75.3 million visitors last year and generated a record $92.5 billion in economic impact. This is in addition to the nearly 464,000 local jobs that are now supported by the industry. Furthermore, Mayor Demings shared an overview of the accomplishments that we've faced here in Orange County, as well as provided a shared vision on how we are "building better through efficiency."

Lastly, Mayor Demings addressed several other community priorities, including the proper investment into transportation and infrastructure, the continued support of our tourism and hospitality industry, public safety, workforce housing and more.

Please CLICK HERE to watch the State of the County on OrangeTV.

CFHLA Security & Safety Council Casino Night

The CFHLA Security & Safety Council hosted their annual Casino Night Fundraiser at the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve (thank you Sean Verney, Area General Manager and CFHLA Board Secretary). Thank you to the more than 100 attendees and sponsors who came out to test their luck on the tables in support of this fundraising event!

The net proceeds from this fundraising event will be utilized to support the CFHLA Foundation and the initiatives of CFHLA Security & Safety Council, including the continued support of our local law enforcement and first responders, as well as hospitality security employees who go above and beyond" in guest safety services.

2025 Distinguished Leaders In Hospitality Awards

Congratulations to our 2025 Distinguished Leaders in Hospitality award winners!

Last month, we proudly recognized more than 112 outstanding hospitality professionals from 46 different CFHLA member lodging properties across the Central Florida region.

A special thank you to Damien Hirsch, General Manager of JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa and his team for hosting this memorable evening of industry recognition.

Once again, congratulations to the following eight award winners who were honored this week, including our inaugural Executive of the Year.

Distinguished Leader in Operations – Front of House
Aaron Gonzalez
Water Park Supervisor
Coco Key Hotel & Water Resort

Distinguished Leader in Culinary
Addnan Ibrahim
Banquet Chef
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort

Distinguished Leader in Operations – Back of House
Jason Heidel
Assistant Director of Housekeeping
Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando

Distinguished Leader in Sales, Marketing & Revenue
Carolina Veitia
Destination Sales Executive
JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa

Distinguished Leader in Events & Meetings
Maria Paula Chau
Event Services Manager
Hilton Orlando

Distinguished Leader in Support Services/ Back Office
Salathia Richburg
Senior Assistant Director of Finance
Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

Emerging Hospitality Leader
Jamie Bentley
Assistant Chief Engineer
Walt Disney World Swan Resort

Executive of the Year

August Decker
Golf General Manager
Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes