Sunshine Matters

I am delighted to report that yesterday’s 2011 Florida Tourism Day at the Capitol was a huge success.  The purpose of Tourism Day is to educate the legislature, media and Floridians about the importance of Florida’s tourism industry and the rationale for public funding.  It serves as a platform to let our lawmakers know just how vital tourism is to our state and how crucial it is for them to support Florida’s No. 1 industry. 

Nearly 200 representatives of the Partnership for Florida’s Tourism traveled to Tallahassee to advocate for tourism marketing funding as part of this year’s Tourism Day.  Before meeting with state lawmakers, advocates heard from Governor Scott and a panel of tourism industry leaders.  The governor commended those in attendance for taking the time to come to Tallahassee and make their concerns known.

The key message of the day shared by tourism industry representatives was to urge state lawmakers to support Governor Scott’s recommendation of $26.7 million for VISIT FLORIDA’s tourism marketing efforts.

Tourism Day concluded with a street party featuring Florida-based pop-rock group MIGGS, whose lead singer wrote and recorded VISIT FLORIDA’s Share a Little Sunshine campaign theme song, as well as Quincy-native and country recording artist Billy Dean.  In addition to the musical acts, numerous members of the tourism industry added to the excitement by providing food, prizes, mascots and exhibits.

I am incredibly grateful to all those who traveled to Tallahassee and helped make Florida Tourism Day such a success.  I would especially like to thank the following trade organizations for their support:

• Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association
• Florida Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus
• Florida Sports Foundation
• Florida Association of Museums
• Florida Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds
• Florida Attractions Association

While Florida Tourism Day comes but once a year, VISIT FLORIDA’s marketing efforts continue year-round.  We urge all Floridians to take pride in your tourism industry and to advocate for tourism marketing funding.  To learn how you can help, please visit FloridasTourismCounts.org.