Sunshine Matters

I am pleased to share that three VISIT FLORIDA Partners – Omni Amelia Island Plantation, Pensacola Lighthouse & Museum and Westgate Resorts – received the first-ever Governor’s Innovators in Business Award in the newly created Tourism & Hospitality category.  The winners were recognized by Governor Scott, as well as Secretary of Commerce and President & CEO of Enterprise Florida (EFI) Gray Swoope, during a special event held at the Governor’s Mansion last night.  The awards, which are announced each year in association with Florida Business Innovators Week, recognize Florida companies in select industries that have influenced the state’s economic growth and diversification over the last year. Continue reading »

As part of today’s historic proposed budget announcement, Governor Rick Scott presented a Business Ambassador Award to long-time tourism  industry leader Ed Fouché.  The award is given to business standouts who have significantly impacted the industry they represent, and there could be no more deserving recipient than Ed. Continue reading »

I am incredibly proud to share that today Governor Rick Scott announced his recommendation for VISIT FLORIDA to receive an historic $100 million in funding in the 2014-15 “It’s Your Money Tax Cut Budget.”  With this funding, VISIT FLORIDA will be able to market the Sunshine State year round to domestic visitors, increase marketing to international visitors, and assist communities in attracting direct international air service to Florida. Continue reading »

I’m pleased to share that during Tuesday evening’s Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association annual Gala and Awards Dinner, VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors member Gene Prescott received the 2014 Hotelier Hall of Fame Award.  As president of The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, Gene led a $40 million, 10-year renovation program that has recently been completed, restoring the landmark to its world-class excellence.  Click here to see a compilation video of industry support for Gene’s honor. Continue reading »

Happy Holidays!  As we wrap up what is likely to be a third consecutive record year for the Florida tourism industry, I would especially like to thank those who serve on VISIT FLORIDA’s Board of Directors and our various committees for their passionate leadership.  The strength of our organization and the success of our marketing initiatives are directly correlated to the active and engaged participation of our industry Partners.  Nowhere was that more apparent than earlier this month when over 175 industry leaders participated in the VISIT FLORIDA Marketing Retreat to help set the course for 2014 and beyond. Continue reading »