Sunshine Matters

The Florida tourism industry owes an incredible debt to Ed who provided strong leadership and commitment, through both his personal devotion and his influential role with Disney, during an incomparable period in VISIT FLORIDA’s 15-year history.  As we move forward, I can’t think of a better successor than Tony who epitomizes small business entrepreneurism at its very finest and brings a kinship with the vast majority of the Florida tourism industry to his leadership position.

As the official tourism marketing organization charged with promoting Florida as a leisure travel and meetings destination, VISIT FLORIDA plans and implements a wide variety of sales and marketing initiatives.  The Board of Directors is our private sector governing body who, along with the members of the 12 committees, provide guidance, input and insight into the evolution of VISIT FLORIDA programs and opportunities.

Ed Fouché, 2011-2012 VISIT FLORIDA Immediate Past Chair

“From the industry’s powerful advocacy in the state’s capital, to the dedicated leadership of our committees and Board of Directors, VISIT FLORIDA is a model for destination marketing efforts on a local, state and national level,” said Ed Fouché, out-going Chairman of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors.  “The support of the tourism industry plays a vital role in the success of VISIT FLORIDA’s mission and I would like to thank Tony and all those who continue to dedicate their time and expertise to further the goals of the organization.”

As the state’s No. 1 industry, tourism was responsible for welcoming 82.3 million visitors in 2010 who spent more than $60 billion, generating 22 percent of the state’s sales tax revenue and employing nearly 1 million Floridians.  VISIT FLORIDA’s ability to successfully market the Florida tourism product and bring in more visitors helps the state of Florida and all our residents by building and growing businesses, creating jobs and providing family-sustaining wages.  These efforts to attract more visitors also generate increased tourist spending that provides funding to help build roads, support schools and pay for vital programs.

Tony Lapi is a classic example of a self-made man who built a highly successful Florida tourism business in ‘Tween Waters Inn from the ground up.  Moving from New York more than 35 years ago, Lapi and his partners purchased property and a few small structures on a breathtaking site at Captiva’s narrowest section that bridges both Gulf and bay.  Today, the legendary resort spans more than 13 acres and boasts 137 cottages, suites, studios and guest rooms with a spa, marina, nature trails and eco-adventures.  Lapi is also a great corporate citizen, leading his staff by example through tireless volunteer efforts at the local and state level.

“I’m honored to be able to serve the tourism industry as its Chair and, while Ed has left huge footprints to fill, I know the VISIT FLORIDA staff and my fellow Board and committee members will work together closely to make Florida the No. 1 travel destination in the world,” said Lapi.  “The future of Florida tourism looks bright – and thanks to the additional funding provided by the Legislature, we expect to see growth in in-state travel and continued increases in domestic and international visitors to the Sunshine State, as well.