On February 3, 2020 the Board of Supervisors Proclaimed 2020 as the "Year to Embrace the Gulf". This is a year-long Gulf of Mexico Alliance awareness campaign to highlight the appreciation for the Gulf and to raise awareness of the value of the Gulf of Mexico. The five focus areas of the campaign include: community, tourism, economy, education and environment. For more information about it or to get involved, please visit www.embracethegulf.org.
The proclamation read as follows:
WHEREAS, the Gulf of Mexico is an ocean basin bounded on the north, northeast and northwest by the Gulf Coast of the United States, on the south and southwest by Mexico, and on the southeast by Cuba. The Gulf of Mexico is bordered by five Gulf states, and the Gulf region contributes to the nation’s economy, security, energy, environment, heritage, beauty, diversity, and resilience; and
WHEREAS, the Gulf of Mexico’s watershed covers more than half of the continental United States and the Mississippi river drains more than one-third of the nation. The Gulf supports our nation’s seafood industry through commercial fishing but also provides recreational adventures; and
WHEREAS, the Gulf of Mexico is key to our nation’s security and defense; oil, gas and energy production; trade of import and exports; and aerospace exploration. The value of the Gulf to provide these key national services is immeasurable; and
WHEREAS, the Gulf of Mexico is more than just a pretty picture; it provides thousands of miles of beautiful, affordable shoreline living. The Gulf Coast region is also one of the most culturally diverse regions in the nation with millions of residents tracing their heritage to Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America. The Gulf Coast embraces a variety of traditions and invokes a strong sense of place; and
WHEREAS, Gulf Coast tourism generates hundreds of billions of dollars each year, and if the Gulf region was a country, our economy would rank among the top 10 worldwide. By increasing awareness of the Gulf of Mexico’s many treasures and limitless value, we ensure a sustainable future; and
NOW, THEREFORE, the Board of Supervisors does hereby proclaim and observe 2020 as “The Year to Embrace the Gulf” in Jackson County, commends this observance to all citizens beginning January 1, 2020.