Sunshine Matters

In response to continuous media reports from this past summer’s Deepwater Horizon oil spill, VISIT FLORIDA is working to inform travelers that Florida is open for business and our seafood is delicious.  Seafood is one of the state’s great treasures and, unfortunately, misinformation in the marketplace has had a negative impact on Florida’s seafood industry.

VISIT FLORIDA has established a partnership with the Florida House on Capitol Hill, Florida Department of Agriculture, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Florida Department of Citrus to celebrate Florida’s seafood in our nation’s capital.  Taking place November 17, the Florida Seafood Celebration is designed to celebrate and promote Florida’s famously diverse and delicious range of seafood.  This evening event will be held at Florida House in Washington, D.C. and attended by members of Florida’s congressional delegation, state leaders and other dignitaries.  

Of course, the main attraction is the seafood itself and what better way to enjoy it than to have it prepared by Chef Josh Butler (Florida Governor’s Mansion); Chef Jim Shirley (The Fish House and Atlas Oyster House) and Great American Seafood Cook-off winner, Chef Dean Max (3030 Ocean).

Florida’s 80 million annual visitors support nearly 1 million Florida jobs and generate 22 percent of our state’s sales tax revenue. Fresh caught seafood has attracted visitors to Florida for nearly 500 years and it is vitally important that our elected leaders at every level  understand just how important the seafood industry is to Florida’s economy and continue to keep tourism and seafood high on their priority lists.

If you would like to take part or promote the Florida Seafood Celebration, send me an email at dia@VISITFLORIDA.orgor contact me direct at 850-205-3863.