Sunshine Matters

Today marks four weeks on the job as President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA, and I want to thank the industry for your support.  Let me tell you what’s been happening.

Today, industry representatives from hotels, restaurants, attractions and every other type of tourism business across the state came to Tallahassee to speak up for VISIT FLORIDA.  You showed up to help and your voice was heard.

While the bill to eliminate public funding for VISIT FLORIDA may have passed out of the House Careers and Competition Subcommittee this afternoon, I could not be prouder of the way the industry has rallied to make a difference.

Today is not the end.  The bill will now move on to another House committee for debate and I want to assure you that VISIT FLORIDA will continue to fight.  I have already begun meeting with each and every legislator to ensure they know that VIST FLORIDA serves a vital role in marketing destinations large and small in every community of this great state, and that a reduction in our public funding would mean the loss of tax revenue and jobs that benefit their constituents.  Constituents just like you.

I want to assure you that your legislative team at VISIT FLORIDA is going to keep working hard, but I need your help.  To those of you who have been calling, emailing, tweeting and meeting with your legislators, please keep it up.  For those of you who are ready to join in the fight, here’s how:

• Go to TourismWorksForFlorida.org and find out how to contact your Senator or Representative
• Read the Funding Florida Tourism Marketing Infographic and Talking Points to arm yourself with messaging
• Then call or email your legislators to let them know you support VISIT FLORIDA and oppose the bill
• Be sure to tell them how you and your business benefit from working with VISIT FLORIDA – those personal and local examples are what really make the difference

Thank you again to everyone for your support.  We are in this fight together.