Mar 4, 2009 7:00 AM CST

Call To Action for VISIT FLORIDA Partners from Chairman of the Board Richard Goldman

March 3, 2009

Dear Partner:

Today marks the start of a historic General Session for the Florida Legislature. During the next 60 days, lawmakers will be facing difficult decisions as they work to balance our state budget. Now more than ever, they are looking for solutions to boost Florida’s economy. We know that tourism is the proven economic answer, providing 19 percent of our total state revenue last year. But it is important that our policymakers hear this message.

This is a call to action like never before. WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT – Please contact your legislators today and let them know that:

Tourism is important to your business and your community,
VISIT FLORIDA’s Tourism marketing works,
Florida’s tourism industry supports Governor Crist’s recommendation of $35.55 million in public funding for VISIT FLORIDA, and
The tourism industry will match state funding with private sector investment.

During the next 60 days we need every Partner to be in communication with your legislators by:

Becoming a Partnership for Florida’s Tourism campaign partner
- Log on to www.FloridasTourismCounts.org to learn about the campaign and how to get involved.
Meeting with your Legislator
- Personally visiting your legislators at the Capitol communicates the importance of funding tourism marketing for your community and our state. Commit today by clicking here. We will assist with scheduling the meetings and providing logistical support while in Tallahassee.
Contacting your local paper with a Letter to the Editor or Op Ed
- One of the best ways to communicate with lawmakers and your community is through your local newspaper. Submit a letter to the editor or op-ed. For more information, contact Leigh Beasley.
Keeping in touch through mail, email and phone
- Continue to communicate with your legislator throughout session by sending letters and making phone calls to show your support for tourism.
Educating your stakeholders
- Share the Tourism Counts message with your target audience by featuring an article in your newsletter, blog or website.

We are working hard at the Capitol for you and the tourism industry. But we need your assistance and involvement during the next 60 days to spread the word about our efforts and the importance of funding tourism marketing. Please join me in making Florida’s Tourism Count.

Sincerely,

Richard Goldman
Chairman, VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors

For additional information on this release, please contact:

Bill Lupfer

Phone: (850) 222-2885

Fax: (850) 222-3970

Email:

Source: www.visitflorida.org

Website: N/A