March 14, 2013 – Hundreds of tourism and hospitality representatives from across the state came to the state’s capitol Wednesday and met with over 80 legislators and government officials. Thank you to those who made the trip to Tallahassee to lobby on behalf of Florida’s number one industry. Your voice was heard loud and clear – the way to our economic prosperity is through the support and funding of tourism marketing and industry funding. The day’s activities began with updates by The Partnership for Florida’s Tourism CEO’s and high level briefings from Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Adam Putnam, State Senator David Simmons, House Majority Leader Stephen Precourt, Department of Business and Professional Regulation Secretary Ken Lawson, and Deputy Secretary of State for Cultural, Historical and Information Programs Kerri Post. The street party Wednesday evening, which drew well over 500 attendees, featured the band Southern Satisfaction and showcased food, prizes and exhibits from numerous members of the tourism industry and supporting organizations. In addition to the great music and delicious food, the Florida Cattlemen’s Association hosted a Florida whip popping demonstration and invited legislators to try their hand at cracking the whip. Click this link to watch our highlight video of Tourism Day, along with our legislative update.