I am so excited about the success of the inaugural Northwest Florida Days this week in Tallahassee.  Various Northwest Florida Chambers along with tourism and business leaders attended the two-day event where we were able to share Northwest Florida with Tallahassee and get the latest updates as we head into the last few weeks of legislative session.  Monday morning, we packed the Capitol Courtyard with information tables and displays from our Chambers, Economic Development Organizations, tourism partners, and Northwest Florida businesses.  Attendees enjoyed King Cake from Publix and fish dip from Kingfisher Restaurant as they learned more about our region and the impact we have on Florida’s economy.

At our Monday evening dinner and reception, State Senator Doug Broxson provided his perspective on where things stand in session.  Department of Business and Professional Regulation Secretary Halsey Beshears and Volunteer Florida CEO Clay Ingram gave an overview of their work and offered their advice on how Northwest Florida residents can stay engaged and relevant in Tallahassee.  Wind Creek Hospitality Public Relations Director moderated the conversation with Beshears and Ingram.

Tuesday morning, Northwest Florida Days attendees received a full rundown of what’s happening in Tallahassee from a slate of speakers that included: Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey, Florida Department of Transportation District 3 Secretary Phillip Gainer, Florida Chamber of Commerce Executive Vice President David Hart, Gray Robinson lobbyist Chris Dawson, Florida Restaurant and Lodging  Association General Counsel Samantha Padgett, Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Executive Director Ken Lawson, and Bay News Nine reporter Troy Kinsey.  The day was topped off with an opportunity to meet Governor Ron DeSantis in his office.  Thanks also to State Representative Alex Andrade for taking time to stop by Tuesday morning and say hello to the group.

I believe we made a tremendous impression with our first Northwest Florida Days and this will only get better each year.  Thanks to all who participated and a special thanks to our sponsors: Wind Creek Hospitality, AT&T, National Energy USA, the National Flight Academy