Beginning August 20, the Florida Attractions Association will sponsor Florida Attractions District Days, encouraging our members to invite members of their country’s Legislative Delegation and other public officials to visit their attraction for an educational tour.

But why?

For your attraction-

Sooner or later, government will make decisions that will impact your attraction. Knowing members of your county’s Legislative Delegation and also those elected in your local county (and city) government leadership will help you navigate through the process of local ordinances and regulations that could make or break your business. Hosting public officials will give you an edge when they know you, your business and how your attraction contributes to the economy and quality of life for your county’s citizens.

For our industry-

Your county’s Legislative delegation will convene with lawmakers from around the state for the 2025 Legislative Session in Tallahassee on Tuesday March 4. During Session may be the worst time to make an initial contact with your Legislator. Your contact with your local Legislators now will create relationships that can yield precious dividends to your attraction AND our industry. Once the hectic days of Session begin, your elected official’s attention will be stretched in multiple directions – all at the same time!

Your participation sets the stage for your association to take action on your behalf when bills affecting our members are filed. Your Legislators already knowing your business and the positive impact you have on your community gives our FAA lobby team at Liberty Partners of Tallahassee and your FAA staff a significant advantage is working toward desirable outcomes.

This isn’t political – it’s advocacy

The IRS allows every business, including 501(c)(3)s to participate in activities such as Florida Attractions District Days:

“Organizations may, however, involve themselves in issues of public policy without the activity being considered as lobbying. For example, organizations may conduct educational meetings, prepare, and distribute educational materials, or otherwise consider public policy issues in an educational manner without jeopardizing their tax-exempt status."

So how?

The FAA will make it super easy and will support you every step of the way! Everything you need to host successful tours will be available to you online starting August 20. Guides, templates, databases – everything. Plus – your FAA staff and lobby team at Liberty Partners of Tallahassee are standing by to assist you.

Thank you for helping your association attain success in Tallahassee on your behalf and on behalf your fellow members.

Update - Richard Jackson Obituary

Update - Tribute Video by Florida Citrus Sports

It is with a heavy heart that I must inform you of the passing of our esteemed friend and colleague, Richard Jackson. Richard was a distinguished figure in the attraction industry, having served as the FAA Chairman of the Board from 1994 to 1995. His dedication and influence within the Florida attractions industry were unparalleled.

As a member of the Florida Attractions Association, Jackson was renowned for his unwavering commitment to promoting creativity and excellence in our field. Throughout his career, he held leadership positions at VISIT FLORIDA, Universal Orlando, and IAAPA, leaving a lasting impact on all those he encountered.

Beyond his professional achievements, Richard Jackson was admired for his integrity, passion, and unwavering commitment to his family and friends. His infectious smile, quick wit, and compassion for others were just a few of the qualities that defined his legacy.

We mourn the loss of a true industry leader and friend. Richard Jackson's presence will be sorely missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with his beloved Cindy and their children Lindsey and Adam during this difficult time.

-Bill Lupfer

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