Timeline 1940s

The 1940s

1940 Milton Bacon served as the Association’s president.

1941 The Association changed its name to Florida Publicity and Public Relations Association (FPPRA) to reflect the growing understanding of two-way communication. Ray Billings served as the Association’s president.

1942 - 1946 President MacDonald Bryan was recognized for playing an instrumental role in holding the Association together during World War II.

1945 During this year the Association set the following four statewide goals: Sanitation in public places Proper signage on Florida highways Campaign for courtesy in Florida Publicizing Florida for the benefit of travelers; doing away with the expression "tourists" New membership goal: 145.

1946 Annual dues were set at $5.00 and the membership goal was met and exceeded … boasting a membership roster of 250 members. The pelican was adopted as the Association's emblem as well as the slogan, “We Build Florida”. July 17-20 Earl N. Brown, member and head of Florida National Exhibits was recognized for reminding the Association’s members of the impact that television would soon have on telling Florida’s story.

1947 Frank Wright served as the Association’s president. November 14 Florida Attractions Association (FAA) was formed and was a direct spin-off from FPPRA, a reflection of the influence of the Florida tourist industry on the early direction of the Association. For several years after its incorporation, FAA met annually with FPPRA.

1948 Russell Kay served as the Association’s president. October 24 & 25 The Association held its State Conference; $10 registration included everything but a hotel (which was $4 single/$5 double occupancy). FPPRA set a new membership goal of 300 and started a monthly bulletin.

1949 Membership survey revealed that FPPRA needed to counteract “sectionalism,” have more conference meetings and get cows off the highways. William Rolleston served as the Association’s president.

The 1940s

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