The Florida Attractions Association (FAA) marked its 75th anniversary with a strategic rebranding initiative to ensure its future relevance and impact. At the 2023 FAA Board Retreat, a Brand ID & Value Proposition Committee was formed to attract and retain the next generation of industry leaders. In partnership with a third party agency, insights were gathered through surveys and interviews that highlighted networking as a critical membership benefit, and praised the Attraction Share program for its value. Results also showcased a desire for enhanced communication and professional development to attract and retain the next generation of industry leaders and a resource hub to better navigate industry challenges.

In response, FAA has committed to modernizing the organization's brand and communication strategies. This includes providing essential services, legislative updates, professional development, and improved networking opportunities. A new visual identity was created and new communication pillars are being developed to reflect these changes, embodying inclusivity, collaboration and unity. This rebranding positions the Florida Attractions Association as a forward-thinking, inclusive and dynamic organization ready to meet the evolving needs of members today and in the future. A brand promise that truly represents the spirit and vitality of Florida’s attractions industry.

Our sincere gratitude to the team at Disney Event & Decorating Support for their invaluable support of our 2024 Annual Conference. Richard, Mitch, Gary, and their talented team played a crucial role in designing and producing a spectacular entryway and staging that enhanced the overall ambiance of our conference. Their dedication to creating a memorable event for our FAA members is greatly appreciated. Thank you for Disney Event & Decorating Support for your outstanding work and commitment to excellence.

As a result of the extensive rulemaking process conducted by the Bureau of Fair Rides to conform with SB902 (2023), the new Affidavit of Compliance and Nondestructive Testing form has been adopted by rule and is effective July 1, 2024.

Florida Statutes: 616.242(5)(b)4, (6)(b)4 and (7)

Florida Administrative Code: Rule 5J-18.0012

Everglades Alligator Farm stands as a revered institution dedicated to the preservation and conservation of alligators in their natural habitat. Founded over 40 years ago, this establishment has consistently demonstrated a commitment to educating the public about the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures. Through guided tours, interactive exhibits, and hands-on experiences, visitors are provided with a unique opportunity to learn about alligator behavior and biology while gaining an appreciation for the delicate balance of nature in the Everglades ecosystem.

Additionally, Everglades Alligator Farm actively participates in research initiatives aimed at furthering our understanding of alligator conservation efforts. Their tireless dedication to wildlife preservation and environmental awareness truly sets them apart as a valuable resource for both locals and tourists alike.

The Thibos family, owners of the Everglades Alligator Farm, have dedicated their lives to preserving and protecting one of Florida's most iconic species. Through their passion and dedication, they have helped ensure that future generations will continue to be able to experience the wonder of the Everglades and its diverse wildlife.

During the the finale of the 75th Anniversary Annual Conference, Southwest Airlines’ Senior Regional Manager of Corporate Responsibility, Alison Hoefler once again came with LUV to share. After awarding the attendance games prize – a pair of roundtrip tickets to anywhere in the world Southwest flies, she continued the drawing for a $100 Southwest Airline gift card…and another $100 gift card…and yet another $100 gift card…and then surprised all of us as she provided everyone attending the conference with a $100 Southwest Airline gift card with best wishes from Southwest Airlines to the FAA!  Thank you Alison & all of our friends at Southwest Airlines!

As a member of the Florida Attractions Association, New Vue Solutions has consistently demonstrated exemplary commitment to providing innovative and high-quality services within the tourism industry. Their creative approach to problem-solving and dedication to customer satisfaction set them apart as a valuable asset within our community. With a strong focus on efficiency and effectiveness, New Vue Solutions empowers attractions across Florida to enhance visitor experiences and improve overall operational performance. Their expertise in implementing cutting-edge technology solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of each attraction is truly impressive, allowing clients to stay ahead of the competition and continuously evolve in response to changing market demands. We are honored to recognize New Vue Solutions for their outstanding contributions and unwavering support of our mission to promote excellence within the tourism sector.

I am deeply honored to assume the role of Chair of the Florida Attractions Association Board of Directors for the next twelve months. I stand humbly on the shoulders of distinguished and passionate leaders who have held this position before me.

During our recent annual conference, I shared my commitment to fostering workplace engagement, which I define as the dedication, involvement, and enthusiasm employees bring to their roles and organizations. Research consistently shows that higher levels of engagement correlate with increased performance, productivity, retention, and overall well-being.

One effective approach to fostering engagement is identifying a need within our workplaces—or our Association—and utilizing our unique strengths to address it. Each of us possesses distinct abilities, and we thrive when given opportunities to apply these strengths meaningfully.

In our inaugural board meeting under my leadership, we dedicated time to exploring our individual and collective strengths. Over the coming year, we will harness these strengths to advance our strategic goals and empower every member of our Association to achieve excellence—our shared mission.

We have ambitious plans for FAA in the year ahead and are committed to inspiring your dedication, involvement, and enthusiasm to help us realize these goals.

Warm regards,

Dan Donovan

Sr. Director, Marketing & Sales Talent Orchestration

Universal Destinations & Experiences

Three amazing days of networking, education and sharing at the World Equestrian Center for the FAA's 75th Anniversary Conference are rolled into this comprehensive report. Check it out!

by Melissa Vogt, Broadway Palm Dinner Theater

Part of the strategic plan that came out of the Board of Directors Retreat last summer was revamping our programs and events to better serve our members. Since then, our Programing and Events Committee has been hard at work reading surveys, listening to feedback from our membership on current programming, hearing ideas for new programming and strategizing together on how to elevate your member experience. The common themes we heard that were most important were networking, professional development, educational resources, and engagement.

I know many of you have attended and are familiar with FAA’s Regional Networking Nights as well as the Attraction Regional Forums. These events have been really wonderful in bringing members in each region together, but another repeat comment is that members wanted more face-to-face opportunities outside of their regions with other attractions throughout the state, and more than just once a year.

We heard you, and while many strategic plans take years to complete, we didn’t want to waste any time. We have come up with a new event that we plan to bring you three times per year that will incorporate everyone’s favorite elements of our current programming and add what you all wanted more of – networking, professional development, education and engagement with attractions across the state.

These will be half day events that will include FAA updates, incredible guest speakers, everyone’s favorite round table sessions, networking and an exclusive attraction experience that is sure to be the icing on the cake of an already awesome day! On behalf of the FAA Staff, Board of Directors and the Programming and Events Committee, we are so excited to share with you this all-new event launching this fall that will allow you, our members, to learn, connect, and explore - Expedition FAA!

We are looking forward to sharing more details soon, but be sure to mark your calendars for Thursday, September 26^th and plan to join us at ZooTampa at Lowry Park for the inaugural Expedition FAA!