The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) presented BMI with its Excellence in Partnership Award at the Hospitality Stars of the Industry Gala on October 13 in Clearwater, Florida. BMI's Jessica Frost, AVP of Customer Experience & Engagement, accepted the honor.
A 30-Year Partnership "For more than 30 years, the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association and BMI have partnered to support songwriters, protect music licensing, and strengthen Florida's tourism industry," said Carol Dover, President & CEO of FRLA. "From advocating for sound music licensing policies to helping revitalize tourism following challenges such as the BP oil spill and hurricanes, our organizations have demonstrated the power of collaboration. Through initiatives like our songwriter series, we've seen how music can bring people together, help communities recover, and support Florida's economic vitality. FRLA is proud to recognize BMI with our Excellence in Partnership Award in appreciation of a longstanding relationship that continues to make a lasting impact across our state."
Recognition and Celebration The event also honored Dan Spears, a recently retired 37-year BMI veteran and former VP of Industry Relations, who was presented with a special guitar signed by more than 200 BMI songwriters. BMI songwriters Bridgette Tatum and Clint Daniels performed during the gala.
Why It Matters
For restaurant operators and hospitality venues in Florida, BMI's licensing advocacy and partnerships with industry groups like FRLA shape the regulatory environment around music performance rights—a core operating cost for many establishments.
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Written by FBM Publications Editors
