Sonny Mares named ‘Person of the Year' by FPRA

Each year, the Northwest Florida Coast Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association recognizes a professional who has made a significant contribution within the field of public relations and to the community.

At the 2009 FPRA year end program, the Northwest Florida Coast Chapter named Sonny Mares, executive director of the Walton County Tourist Development Council, as “2009 Person of the Year” for his use of public relations principles to benefit the tourism industry and community at large.

“Sonny’s philosophy is one of collaboration and inclusiveness with the community and tourism industry, and his skills in community relations and public affairs are to be admired,” said Tracy Louthain, Walton County TDC director of communications during a toast at the event.

After accepting the position of executive director of the Walton County TDC, Mares immediately began collaborating with the tourism industry, county officials and the community on controversial issues ranging from signs and beach nourishment to public vs. private beaches and the County’s Leave No Trace Ordinance.

Sonny worked collaboratively with constituents along the way holding public workshops and consistently makes himself available to the community and the media.

Most recently, his public relations skills were put to the test as he launched a community relations campaign to pass to an additional half cent of bed tax to be used to attract a low cost airline to the region. He worked diligently to communicate the benefits of the additional bed tax revenue, which is paid by visitors. Workshops were held with the community and the Walton County Taxpayers Association to fully understand all positions. After making modifications to address the community’s concerns, an increase in bed tax was approved by the Walton County Board of County Commissioners.

“Sonny Mares has effectively demonstrated that he has solid understanding of public relations principles especially as it relates to community relations, media relations and public affairs,” said Kara Stallings, president of the FPRA Northwest Florida Coast Chapter. “Mares is an excellent spokesperson for the TDC and our community.”

For more information on the Northwest Florida Coast Chapter of Florida Public Relations Association, visit www.nwfcoastfpra.org or contact Stacey Brady at stacey@grandboulevard.com.