Agenda 09/23/2025 Item #16F 3 ((RFP) # 24-8318 for Tourism Public Relations Services to Lou Hammond Group Florida, Inc)9/23/2025
Item # 16.F.3
ID# 2025-2770
Executive Summary
Recommendation to award Request For Proposal (RFP) # 24-8318 for Tourism Public Relations Services to Lou
Hammond Group Florida, Inc., authorize the Chair to execute the contract, and make a finding that this expenditure
promotes tourism.
OBJECTIVE: To award Tourism Public Relations Services Agreement for three years with the option to have two
one-year renewals to the number one ranked firm, Lou Hammon Group Florida, Inc.
CONSIDERATIONS: On March 7, 2025, the Procurement Services Division issued Request for Proposal #24-8318
Tourism Public Relations Services. 2,889 firms were notified, 833 firms viewed the solicitation information, and four
(4) proposals were received by the April 8, 2025, deadline. A selection committee convened on June 4, 2025, and after
review of the proposals and deliberation, the Committee scored the proposals and ranked the firms as noted below based
on the criteria outlined in the solicitation.
Lou Hammond Group Florida, Inc., Paradise Advertising & Marketing, Inc., and Dion Marketing Company, Inc. were
deemed responsive and responsible. Blue Scorpion Reputation Management, LLC was found to be responsive and
responsible, with minor irregularities.
The RFP requested that the vendor create and implement for the County an effective media relations strategy that may
include, but not be limited to, the following:
• Provide full range of media pitching and targeting;
• Nurture personal media relationships on the County’s behalf;
• Develop pitches specifically targeted to each individual outlet and journalist by niche;
• Create pitches that reference the journalist's recent stories and specific section topics;
• Utilize statistics wherever possible to support trends;
• Employ unobtrusive follow-up with journalists;
• Assist with Influencer and Social Media strategies
• Assist with tradeshows and media events on behalf of the County;
• Assist with CVB partner and crisis communications as needed.
The balance of services the vendor will provide are outlined in the Scope of Services included in the attached bid
document supplied by the vendor.
Respondents:
Company Name City County State Final
Ranking
Responsive/
Responsible
Lou Hammond Group Florida, Inc. Charleston Charleston SC 1 Yes/Yes
Paradise Advertising & Marketing Inc. St. Petersburg Pinellas FL 2 Yes/Yes
Dion Marketing Company, Inc. Jacksonville Duval FL 3 Yes/Yes
Blue Scorpion Reputation Management,
LLC
Atlanta Fulton GA 4 Yes/Yes
Staff is recommending an award to the top-ranked firm, Lou Hammond Group Florida, Inc.
ADVISORY BOARD RECOMMENDATION: This item will be presented to the Tourist Development Council on
September 16, 2025.
This item is consistent with the Collier County strategic plan objectives of promoting Collier County as an exceptional
Tourism Destination.
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9/23/2025
Item # 16.F.3
ID# 2025-2770
FISCAL IMPACT: Funds in the annual amount of $157,200 ($132,000 annual service fee plus $25,200 in annual out
of pocket expenses), for three years with the option to have two one-year renewals, are available in the proposed FY 26
Tourism Division Fund 1101 budget in Contracted Service and will be budgeted for each year of the Agreement.
GROWTH MANAGEMENT IMPACT: There is no impact of the Growth Management Plan Identify with this action.
LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS: This item is approved as to form and legality and requires majority vote for approval. –
CMG
RECOMMENDATIONS: To award Request For Proposal (RFP) # 24-8318 for Tourism Public Relations Services to
Lou Hammond Group Florida, Inc., authorize the Chair to execute the contract, and make a finding that this expenditure
promotes tourism.
PREPARED BY: Sandra Rios, PR & Communications Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1. 24-8318 LouHammond ContractVS
2. 24-8318 NORA
3. 24-8318 Solicitation
4. 24-8318 Final Ranking
5. 24-8318 Lou Hammond Proposal
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Notice of Recommended Award
Solicitation: 24-8318 Title: Tourism Public Relations Services
Due Date and Time: April 8, 2025 @ 3:00 PM EST
Respondents:
Company Name City County State Final
Ranking
Responsive/
Responsible
Lou Hammond Group Florida, Inc. Charleston Charleston SC 1 Y/Y
Paradise Advertising & Marketing, Inc. St. Petersburg Pinellas FL 2 Y/Y
Dion Marketing Company, Inc. Jacksonville Duval FL 3 Y/Y
Blue Scorpion Reputation Management LLC Atlanta Fulton GA 4 Y/Y
Utilized Local Vendor Preference: Yes No
Recommended Vendors For Award:
On March 7, 2025, the Procurement Services Division issued Request for Proposal (“RFP”) No. 24-8318, Tourism
Public Relations Services, two thousand eight hundred eighty-nine (2,889) firms were notified. Eight hundred
thirty-three (833) firms viewed the solicitation information, and four (4) proposals were received by the April 8,
2025, deadline.
Lou Hammond Group Florida, Inc., Paradise Advertising & Marketing, Inc., and Dion Marketing Company, Inc.
were deemed responsive and responsible. Blue Scorpion Reputation Management LLC was found to be
responsive and responsible, with minor irregularities.
The Selection Committee convened on June 4, 2025, and after review of the proposals and deliberation, the
Committee scored the proposals and ranked the firms as shown above.
Staff is recommending an award to the top-ranked firm, Lou Hammond Group Florida, Inc.
Contract Driven Purchase Order Driven
Required Signatures
Project Manager:
Procurement Strategist:
Procurement Services Director:
__________________________________ _________________
Sandra Srnka Date
Docusign Envelope ID: 393C044B-44D6-4E74-A473-B9803D05B9D9
6/11/2025
6/11/2025
6/11/2025
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Procurement Services Division
COLLIER COUNTY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)
FOR
TOURISM PUBLIC RELATIONS SERVICES
SOLICITATION NO.: 24-8318
LISA OIEN, PROCUREMENT STRATEGIST
PROCUREMENT SERVICES DIVISION
3295 TAMIAMI TRAIL EAST, BLDG C-2
NAPLES, FLORIDA 34112
TELEPHONE: (239) 252-8935
Lisa.Oien@colliercountyfl.gov
This solicitation document is prepared in a Microsoft Word format (Rev 8/7/2017). Any alterations
to this document made by the Vendor may be grounds for rejection of proposal, cancellation of any
subsequent award, or any other legal remedies available to the Collier County Government.
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2
SOLICITATION PUBLIC NOTICE
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)
NUMBER:
24-8318
PROJECT TITLE: TOURISM PUBLIC RELATIONS SERVICES
DUE DATE: April 8, 2025, at 3:00 PM EST
PLACE OF RFP OPENING: PROCUREMENT SERVICES DIVISION
3295 TAMIAMI TRAIL EAST, BLDG C-2
NAPLES, FL 34112
All proposals shall be submitted online via the Collier County Procurement Services Division Online Bidding System:
https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/collier-county-fl
INTRODUCTION
As requested by the Tourism Division (hereinafter, the “Division or Department”), the Collier County Board of County
Commissioners Procurement Services Division (hereinafter, “County”) has issued this Request for Proposal (hereinafter, “RFP”)
with the intent of obtaining proposals from interested and qualified Public Relations Agencies [also referred agency, firm(s),
vendor(s), and proposer(s)] in accordance with the terms, conditions and specifications stated or attached. The vendor, at a minimum,
must achieve the requirements of the Specifications or Scope of Work stated.
The Collier County Tourism Division, operating as the Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) is
soliciting proposals for a Public Relations agency of record as an integral part of their omnichannel marketing plan. The successful
bidder will have national presence and a wide range of national and international media contacts, and the ability to support crisis
communications efforts when needed.
The CVB is seeking a public relations agency that specializes in Destination Marketing and Luxury Travel to manage national public
relations activities as outlined within this RFP. The selected agency will supplement the efforts of an in-house public relations and
communications team whose primary focus is overseeing local and regional media relations and managing crisis communications in
tandem with the Collier County Public Information Office. Historically, the cost has been approximately $140,000 annually, with an
additional budget for travel and out of pocket reimbursable expenses.
BACKGROUND
Public relations are an integral part of the annual marketing strategy employed by the CVB to market our community globally as a
destination of choice for domestic and international visitors seeking distinctive vacations, corporate meeting sites, wedding and social
event locale and sporting event venues.
Tourism is a highly competitive and outward facing industry. The CVB relies on public relations and communications strategies to
maintain and grow market share in a dynamic environment that is ever changing.
TERM OF CONTRACT
The contract term, if an award(s) is/are made is intended to be for three (3) years with two (2) one (1) year renewal options. Prices
shall remain firm for the initial term of this contract.
Surcharges will not be accepted in conjunction with this contract, and such charges should be incorporated into the pricing structure.
The County Manager, or designee, may, at his discretion, extend the Agreement under all of the terms and conditions contained in
this Agreement for up to one hundred eighty (180) days. The County Manager, or designee, shall give the Contractor written notice
of the County's intention to extend the Agreement term not less than ten (10) days prior to the end of the Agreement term then in
effect.
All goods are FOB destination and must be suitably packed and prepared to secure the lowest transportation rates and to
comply with all carrier regulations. Risk of loss of any goods sold hereunder shall transfer to the COUNTY at the time and
place of delivery; provided that risk of loss prior to actual receipt of the goods by the COUNTY nonetheless remain with
VENDOR.
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DETAILED SCOPE OF WORK
The agency will create and implement an annual media relations plan for the CVB that will include the following:
1. Media pitching
• Nurture personal media relationships on behalf of the CVB.
• Develop pitches specifically targeted to individual outlets and journalist by niche.
• Utilize statistics wherever possible to support trends.
• Position CVB’s Managers and Directors as industry leaders for speaking engagements and editorial opportunities.
• Coordinate deskside briefings with national travel and tourism publications and news outlets.
• Develop high impact story ideas and articles.
• Assist with the coordination of press conferences and events as needed.
• Research editorial calendars for long-lead media placements and destination inclusion in key articles and industry roundups.
2. Proactive campaigns that research and review Public Relations (PR) opportunities on national network, streaming, cable TV and
syndicated shows and podcasts to promote the diverse offerings of Florida’s Paradise Coast.
• The agency will promote the destination’s offerings using the CVB’s event calendar with a focus on seasonality, holidays
and arts & culture events.
3. The agency will assist the in-house CVB PR staff with local and regional media relations support and planning as needed and
escorting media familiarization trip participants while in the destination and in situations where the in-house PR team needs
additional help to respond to media inquiries.
• Agency personnel will represent the CVB at select tradeshows and conferences as directed by the assigned Tourism Division
staff.
4. Written Materials
• The agency will craft press releases and media pitches, update and maintain the CVB’s Media Kit, Fact Sheet and assist
with the management of photography and video assets.
• No materials will be disseminated on behalf of the CVB without prior written consent from the assigned Tourism Division
staff.
• The agency will provide a 12-month timeline of activities in cooperation with the CVB’s in-house Public Relations team.
• The agency will maintain a list of industry, travel and tourism awards and submit award applications to publications and
industry organizations on behalf of the client.
5. Communications:
• The agency will draft and distribute monthly communications on behalf of the CVB including the Coast Lines partner
newsletter with the assistance of the in-house CVB PR staff.
• The PR agency will respond within a reasonable time to inquiries, refer coverage opportunities to the CVB assigned Tourism
Division staff, and give advice on industry trends and developments.
• The agency will coordinate media visits and familiarization trips to the destination.
• The agency will monitor media coverage generated by the agency and CVB staff and provide a weekly synopsis of media
coverage to the CVB assigned Tourism Division staff.
6. Social Media, Partner Engagement, Reputation Management
• The agency will assist with integrated social media campaigns that build brand equity and credibility, engage customers,
drive visitation, track metrics and conversation trends.
• The agency will monitor the CVB’s social media platforms, generate ideas for social media posts and share the CVB’s
content on appropriate social media sites
• The agency will assist with the solicitation and vetting of influencers and journalistic proposals and present a point of view
recommendation to the CVB marketing team.
• The agency will be an integral partner in the development of the CVB’s annual marketing plan and attend/participate in all
relevant marketing events and initiatives.
• The agency will coordinate seminars and webinars to benefit the County’s tourism partners.
• The agency will monitor coverage and online reviews, develop appropriate messaging for the online community.
• The agency will be proactive in the CVB’ reputation management and will work with the CVB to ensure that any information
on public domain sites is correct, helping to implement any revisions if necessary.
7. Crisis Communications
• The agency will be an active partner in all emergency situations requiring crisis communications including media
monitoring, contacts with Collier tourism partners, and vet and/or contribute photos and videos from user generated content
to support the crisis communications and recovery operations.
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REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) PROCESS
1.1 The Proposers will submit a qualifications proposal which will be scored based on the criteria in Evaluation Criteria for
Development of Shortlist, which will be the basis for short-listing firms.
The Proposers will need to meet the minimum requirements outlined herein in order for their proposal to be evaluated and
scored by the COUNTY. The COUNTY will then score and rank the firms and enter into negotiations with the top ranked
firm to establish cost for the services needed. The COUNTY reserves the right to issue an invitation for oral presentations
to obtain additional information after scoring and before the final ranking. With successful negotiations, a contract will be
developed with the selected firm, based on the negotiated price and scope of services and submitted for approval by the
Board of County Commissioners.
1.2 The COUNTY will use a Selection Committee in the Request for Proposal selection process.
1.3 The intent of the scoring of the proposal is for respondents to indicate their interest, relevant experience, financial capability,
staffing and organizational structure.
1.4 The intent of the oral presentations, if deemed necessary, is to provide the vendors with a venue where they can conduct
discussions with the Selection Committee to clarify questions and concerns before providing a final rank.
1.5 Based upon a review of these proposals, the COUNTY will rank the Proposers based on the discussion and clarifying
questions on their approach and related criteria, and then negotiate in good faith an Agreement with the top ranked Proposer.
1.6 If, in the sole judgment of the COUNTY, a contract cannot be successfully negotiated with the top-ranked firm, negotiations
with that firm will be formally terminated and negotiations shall begin with the firm ranked second. If a contract cannot be
successfully negotiated with the firm ranked second, negotiations with that firm will be formally terminated and negotiations
shall begin with the third ranked firm, and so on. The COUNTY reserves the right to negotiate any element of the proposals
in the best interest of the COUNTY.
RESPONSE FORMAT AND EVALUATION CRITERIA FOR DEVELOPMENT OF SHORTLIST:
1.7 For the development of a shortlist, this evaluation criterion will be utilized by the COUNTY’S Selection Committee to score
each proposal. Proposers are encouraged to keep their submittals concise and to include a minimum of marketing
materials. Proposals must address the following criteria:
Evaluation Criteria Maximum Points
1. Cover Letter / Management Summary 5 Points
2. Certified Woman and/or Minority Business Enterprise 5 Points
3. Business Plan 20 Points
4. Cost of Services to the County 20 Points
5. Experience and Capacity of the Firm 20 Points
6. Specialized Expertise of Team Members 20 Points
7. Local Vendor Preference 10 Points
TOTAL POSSIBLE POINTS 100 Points
Tie Breaker: In the event of a tie at final ranking, award shall be made to the proposer with the lower volume of work
previously awarded. Volume of work shall be calculated based upon total dollars paid to the proposer in the twenty-four
(24) months prior to the RFP submittal deadline. Payment information will be retrieved from the County’s financial system
of record. The tie breaking procedure is only applied in the final ranking step of the selection process and is invoked by the
Procurement Services Division Director or designee. In the event a tie still exists, selection will be determined based on
random selection by the Procurement Services Director before at least three (3) witnesses.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Each criterion and methodology for scoring is further described below.
***Proposals must be assembled, at minimum, in the order of the Evaluation Criteria listed or
your proposal may be deemed non-responsive***
EVALUATION CRITERIA NO. 1: COVER LETTER/MANAGEMENT SUMMARY (5 Total Points Available)
Provide a cover letter, signed by an authorized officer of the firm, indicating the underlying philosophy of the firm in
providing the services stated herein. Include the name(s), telephone number(s) and email(s) of the authorized contact
person(s) concerning proposal. Submission of a signed Proposal is the firm’s certification that the firm will accept any
awards as a result of this RFP.
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EVALUATION CRITERIA NO. 2: CERTIFIED WOMAN AND/OR MINORITY BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (5
Total Points Available)
Submit certification with the Florida Department of Management Service, Office of Supplier Diversity as a Certified Woman
and/or Minority Business Enterprise.
EVALUATION CRITERIA NO. 3: BUSINESS PLAN (20 Total Points Available)
In this criteria, include but not limited to:
• Detailed plan of approach (including major tasks and sub-tasks).
• Detailed timeline for completion of the project.
• Include with the Business Plan or as an attachment, a copy of a PR campaign an example of work product.
This should be for one of the projects listed as a reference.
EVALUATION CRITERIA NO. 4: COST OF SERVICES TO THE COUNTY (20 Total Points Available)
In this criteria, include but not limited to:
• Provide a monthly service fee that will cover all the staff work described in your proposal and extend that cost
to the annual total.
• Provide the projected monthly out-of-pocket expenses and projected annual total of cost for out-of-pocket
expenses to be reimbursed to the firm. These costs should include copying, shipping, postage, and pre-approved
travel expenses on County tourism business for which your firm will provide the work as described in the RFP.
• Provide Combined Annual Total = Annual Total Monthly Service Fees plus Annual Total Monthly Out-of-
Pocket Expenses.
Fee Description Monthly Cost Annual Total
Monthly Service Fee $ $
Monthly Out-of-Pocket
Expenses
$ $
Combined Annual Total = Annual Total Monthly Service Fees plus
Annual Total Monthly Out-of- Pocket Expenses
The Combined Annual Total Cost to the County will be scored using the following methodology:
1. The greatest number of points allowed in this criterion will be awarded to the firm who has the lowest Combined Annual
Total.
2. The next lowest Combined Annual Total will be divided by the lowest Combined Annual Total which will then be
multiplied by the maximum criteria points to determine the vendor’s points awarded. The points awarded will be
rounded to the nearest whole amount.
3. Each subsequent firm’s point score will be calculated in the same manner.
For illustrative purposes only:
Vendor Name Annual Revenue Points Awarded
Vendor ABC $100,000 20
Vendor DEF $110,000.00 16
Vendor GHI $135,000 15
• Initial pricing is for evaluation purposes and is subject to change during negotiations with the selected firm.
EVALUATION CRITERIA NO. 5: EXPERIENCE AND CAPACITY OF THE FIRM (20 Total Points Available)
In this criteria, include but not limited to:
• Provide information that documents your firm’s and subcontractors’ qualifications to produce the required
deliverables, including abilities, capacity, skill, and financial strength, and number of years of experience in
providing the required services.
• Describe the various team members’ successful experience in working with one another on previous projects.
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The County requests that the vendor submits no fewer than three (3) and no more than ten (10) completed reference
forms from clients during a period of the last 5 years whose projects are of a similar nature to this solicitation as a
part of their proposal. Provide information on the projects completed by the Proposer that best represent projects of similar
size, scope and complexity of this project using form provided in Form 5. Proposers may include two (2) additional pages
for each project to illustrate aspects of the completed project that provides the information to assess the experience of the
Proposer on relevant project work.
EVALUATION CRITERIA NO. 6: SPECIALIZED EXPERTISE OF TEAM MEMBERS (20 Total Points
Available)
In this criteria, include but not limited to:
• Description of the proposed contract team and the role to be played by each member of the team.
• Attach brief resumes of all proposed project team members who will be involved in the management of the total
package of services, as well as the delivery of specific services.
• Attach resumes of any sub-vendors and attach letters of intent from stated sub-vendors must be included with
proposal submission.
• Provide examples of the work done by the team members for other Destination Marketing Organizations.
EVALUATION CRITERIA NO. 7: LOCAL VENDOR PREFERENCE (10 Total Points Available)
Local business is defined as the vendor having a current Business Tax Receipt issued by the Collier or Lee County Tax
Collector prior to proposal submission to do business within Collier County, and that identifies the business with a permanent
physical business address located within the limits of Collier or Lee County from which the vendor’s staff operates and
performs business in an area zoned for the conduct of such business.
VENDOR CHECKLIST
***Vendor should check off each of the following items as the necessary action is completed (please see, Vendor Check List)***
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Selection Committee
Scoring Sheet ( and Final Ranking
Procurement Services Division
RPS #:24-8318
Title: Tourism Public Relations Services
Name of Firm Charles
Kammerer Sandra Rios John Melleky Deborah Curry Elena Ortiz Total Scores Final Ranking
Lou Hammond Group Florida, Inc.76 82 80 81 82 401.00 1
Paradise Advertising & Marketing, Inc.73 65 70 75 77 360.00 2
Dion Marketing Company, Inc.71 41 46 68 73 299.00 3
Blue Scorpion Reputation Mangement LLC 65 38 37 64 64 268.00 4
Procurement Professional Date:6/4/2025Lisa Oien
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County of Collier, FL
Procurement
-, -
3299 Tamiami Trail, East Naples, FL 34112
[LOU HAMMOND GROUP FLORIDA, INC.] RESPONSE DOCUMENT REPORT
GEN No. 24-8318
Tourism Public Relations Services
RESPONSE DEADLINE: April 8, 2025 at 3:00 pm
Report Generated: Tuesday, April 8, 2025
Lou Hammond Group Florida, Inc. Response
CONTACT INFORMATION
Company:
Lou Hammond Group Florida, Inc.
Email:
brittanyc@louhammond.com
Contact:
Brittany Chapman
Address:
145 King Street
Suite 411
Charleston, FL 29401
Phone:
(727) 483-0707
Website:
louhammond.com
Submission Date:
Apr 8, 2025 11:15 AM (Eastern Time)
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[LOU HAMMOND GROUP FLORIDA, INC.] RESPONSE DOCUMENT REPORT
GEN No. 24-8318
Tourism Public Relations Services
[LOU HAMMOND GROUP FLORIDA, INC.] RESPONSE DOCUMENT REPORT
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Page 2
ADDENDA CONFIRMATION
Addendum #1
Confirmed Apr 8, 2025 1:56 PM by Brittany Chapman
QUESTIONNAIRE
1. I certify that I have read, understood and agree to the terms in this solicitation, and that I am authorized to submit this r esponse
on behalf of my company.*
Confirmed
2. Request for Proposals (RFP) Instructions Form*
Request for Proposals (RFP) Instructions have been acknowledged and accepted.
Confirmed
3. Collier County Purchase Order Terms and Conditions*
Collier County Purchase Order Terms and Conditions have been acknowledged and accepted.
Confirmed
4. Insurance Requirements*
Vendor Acknowledges Insurance Requirement and is prepared to produce the required insurance certificate(s) within five (5) days of
the County's issuance of a Notice of Recommended Award.
Confirmed
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[LOU HAMMOND GROUP FLORIDA, INC.] RESPONSE DOCUMENT REPORT
GEN No. 24-8318
Tourism Public Relations Services
[LOU HAMMOND GROUP FLORIDA, INC.] RESPONSE DOCUMENT REPORT
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Page 3
5. Collier County Required Forms
PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL*
Please submit a proposal per the Evaluation Criteria outlined in the Solicitation.
Collier_County_PR_RFP_LHG_24-8318.pdf
VENDOR DECLARATION STATEMENT (FORM 1)*
Form_1_-_Vendor_Declaration_Statement.pdf
CONFLICT OF INTEREST CERTIFICATION (FORM 2)*
Form_2_-_Conflict_of_Interest_Certification.pdf
IMMIGRATION LAW AFFIDAVIT CERTIFICATION (FORM 3)*
Form_3_-_Immigration_Law_Affidavit_Certification.pdf
CERTIFICATION FOR CLAIMING STATUS AS A LOCAL BUSINESS (FORM 4) IF APPLICABLE
Please provide a business tax receipt. Local business is defined as the vendor having a current Business Tax Receipt issued by the
Collier or Lee County Tax Collector prior to proposal submission to do business within Collier County, and that identifies th e business
with a permanent physical business address located within the limits of Collier or Lee County from which the vendor’s staff operates
and performs business in an area zoned for the conduct of such business. Please attach a Collier or Lee County Business Tax Receipt.
Form_4_-_Vendor_Submittal_-_Local_Vendor_-_not_applicable.pdf
REFERENCE QUESTIONNAIRE (FORM 5)*
The County requests that the vendor submits no fewer than three (3) and no more than ten (10) completed reference forms from
clients during a period of the last ten (10) years whose projects are of a similar nature to this solicitation as a part of their proposal.
References_Collier_County_PR_RFP_LHG_24-8318.pdf
E-VERIFY - MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING*
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[LOU HAMMOND GROUP FLORIDA, INC.] RESPONSE DOCUMENT REPORT
GEN No. 24-8318
Tourism Public Relations Services
[LOU HAMMOND GROUP FLORIDA, INC.] RESPONSE DOCUMENT REPORT
undefined - Tourism Public Relations Services
Page 4
Vendor MUST be enrolled in the E-Verify - https://www.e-verify.gov/ at the time of submission of the proposal/bid. E-Verify
Memorandum of Understanding or Company Profile page should be attached with your submittal.
E-Verify_MOU.pdf
W-9 FORM*
W-9_Form.pdf
PROOF OF STATUS FROM DIVISION OF CORPORATIONS - FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF STATE (SUNBIZ)*
http://dos.myflorida.com/sunbiz/ should be attached with your submittal*
Proof_of_Status_from_Division_of_Corporations_-_Florida_Department_of_State.pdf
LICENSE REQUIREMENT*
Provide licenses and certifications as outlined in Evaluation Criteria 3: Qualifications.
PR_Campaign_Example.pdf
ALL SIGNED ADDENDA (IF APPLICABLE)
All_Signed_Addenda.pdf
ALL OTHER DOCUMENTATION, AS APPLICABLE.
Form_6_-_Grant_Provisions_-_not_applicable.pdf
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RESPONSE TO PUBLIC RELATIONS SERVICES FOR
NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION
& VISITORS BUREAU
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
SOLICITATION NO.: 24-8318
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P. 03 No. 1: COVER LETTER
P .05 No. 2: CERTIFIED WOMEN AND/OR MINORITY BUSINESS ENTERPRISE
P. 06 No. 3: BUSINESS PLAN
P.56 No. 4: COST OF SERVICES TO THE COUNTY
P. 60 No. 5: EXPERIENCE AND CAPACITY OF THE FIRM
P. 68 No. 6: SPECIALIZED EXPERTISE OF TEAM MEMBERS
P. 135 No. 7: LOCAL VENDOR PREFERENCE
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2
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EVALUATION CRITERIA NO. 1:
COVER LETTER
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025 3
Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau Team,
Thank you for the opportunity to submit a proposal on behalf of Lou Hammond Group (LHG) to continue promoting
the Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention and Visitors Bureau. Having worked closely together for more
than a decade, we greatly value the trust you’ve placed in us and remain passionate about sharing the story of
Florida’s Paradise Coast. This letter, along with the proposal that follows, reaffirms LHG’s commitment to your
destination and outlines our vision for building on the momentum we’ve created together.
We’ve worked hand-in-hand with the CVB team and its partners to support a thriving tourism industry, serving as
part of a strong, integrated team that helped attract more than 2.7 million visitors in 2024, generating over $2.8
billion in spending.
Our publicity efforts continue to deliver strong results. In 2024, LHG secured more than 120 media placements for
the destination, generating an advertising value of $8.2 million.
LHG is a recognized, award-winning leader in the public relations industry with four decades of experience. The
media consistently looks to us as a top resource in the destination marketing space. We are proud to represent
more than 32 travel and tourism clients, including See Monterey, Explore Charleston, Travel South Dakota, Nassau
Paradise Island, and Visit Mississippi—each a testament to our deep understanding of place-driven storytelling and
the tourism landscape.
What sets LHG apart is not just our strategic thinking and strong media relationships, but our philosophy of
partnership. We are big enough to support global brands, yet nimble and personal in our approach. We don’t
believe in time sheets or hourly billing—our team is all in, all the time. We value responsiveness, creativity, and
measurable results above all else.
Cordially,
Terry Gallagher
President, New York
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AGENCY NAME AND CONTACT
LOU HAMMOND STEPHEN HAMMOND
TERRY GALLAGHER
CEO,
South Carolina
stephenh@louhammond.com
Mobile: 843.408.4809
President,
New York
terryg@louhammond.com
Mobile: 917.539.0633
Founder/Chairman,
South Carolina
louh@louhammond.com
Mobile: 212.891.0201
BRITTANY CHAPMAN
President,
Florida
brittanyc@louhammond.com
Mobile: 727.483.0707
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
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EVALUATION CRITERIA NO. 2: CERTIFIED WOMEN AND/OR MINORITY
BUSINESS ENTERPRISE
5
NOT APPLICABLE
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EVALUATION CRITERIA NO. 3: BUSINESS PLAN
6
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We will provide consistent, integrated messaging on Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades as a smart, thriving destination –one that is
on the move with outstanding offerings for any type, including easy access from air or car. We will tell the story of why these factors,
along with locations and quality of life elements make it a great place to visit.
As one of America’s most charming and distinctive areas, we’ll achieve success for Collier County by focusing on key selling points that
help the area stand out amongst domestic destinations. Among these are:
•Outstanding tourism and quality of life elements
•Thriving arts and culture
•Outstanding culinary scene
•Abundant events and activities
•World-class shopping
•Distinctive outdoor activities, such as fishing, golf and watersports
•The people of Collier County as ambassadors
OUR PLAN IS ALL ABOUT FOCUS, EMPHASIZING A NUMBER OF KEY ELEMENTS FOR SUCCESS INCLUDING:
•Segmentation: Not taking a cookie-cutter approach but instead targeting specific niche audience segments and the media that
reaches them
•Reprography: Targeting the markets from which our visitors are traveling
•Aggressive Pitching: While LHG is a go-to resource for media, we don’t just sit back and wait for them –we reach out with aggressive,
creative concepts to drive storylines
•Seeing is Believing: To know Collier County is to love it and our focus is getting media here to experience and cover it for themselves
•Helping Partners: We believe strongly that a rising tide lifts all boats and our job is to help our industry partners tell their story and
understand the work the CVB does on their behalf
•Cost Effective: We will continue to provide value for money for Collier Country with added benefits that others do not provide while
always coming in within our budget with outstanding results
•Integration: Working closely with our friends at Paradise Advertising, as well as with the CVB itself to tell the destination story in an
integrated manner
OUR APPROACH TO COLLIER COUNTY TOURISM
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
RESEARCH
As a dedicated partner of the Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau, LHG brings a deep understanding of your brand, audience, and market position. Building
on years of collaboration, we’ll continue to refine our approach by analyzing visitor data, competitive insights, macro trends, and evolving consumer behaviors to develop messaging
and campaigns that authentically resonate with your target audience and reflect the unique spirit of the destination.
GOALS + STRATEGY
Our agency will work closely with your team to set clear and measurable goals. We clearly articulate a tailored strategy that ladders up to those goals and use our strategy as our “North
Star” to determine initiatives. This allows us to focus on the key initiatives that are established at the beginning of the contract and be objective about the program’s success throughout the
year.
PROCESS
Process makes perfect, right? We spend time explicitly laying out everyone’s roles, both internal and external, and define workflow for every aspect of the program. Our detailed approach
at the front end of our work ensures less bureaucracy and faster results, and fewer mistakes for everyone.
EXECUTE
We’ll continue to work strategically and efficiently to build Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau’s awareness through creative pitches and tactics. Our creative
approach and quick thinking ensures we are always many steps ahead, allowing us to take advantage of the news cycle and current trends, creating the biggest impact.
ANALYZE + ADJUST
LHG tracks and analyzes results in real time to ensure we’re delivering ROI. We refine our work when needed, benchmark against annual goals and have ongoing conversations about
taking thoughtful risks, using the latest research and taking into account national industry and media trends to calibrate tactics.
1
2
3
4
5
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STRATEGIC PLAN
TECHNICAL CAPABILITIES | OUR WORK PROCESS
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SAMPLE GOAL SETTING |LHG’S FRAMEWORK FOR KPIs
PR goalsPR goalsPR goals
Position Naples, Marco Island, and the Everglades as a
trusted destination offering luxury experiences and a
welcoming environment for both families and discerning
travelers.
OVERARCHING GOAL 1:
Majority (51%+) of media coverage is within Naples, Marco
Island, Everglades' defined priority media list (Top 100).
GOAL:
Introduce Naples, Marco Island, and the Everglades to a
broader audience by showcasing the destination’s diverse
appeal—from world-class beaches and upscale shopping
to unmatched outdoor pursuits.
OVERARCHING GOAL 2:
Generate a minimum of 25% coverage in "best of" articles.
GOAL:
Reinforce Naples, Marco Island, and the Everglades as an
industry leader by collaborating with destination partners and
Jay Tusa to drive strategic thought leadership.
OVERARCHING GOAL 3:
Dedicate 10% of monthly pitches offering Naples, Marco
Island, Everglades destination partners and CVB reps as an
expert source.
GOAL:
9
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TARGET MARKETS AND NICHES OF FOCUS
10
Throughout our contract,we'll focus on both national and key regional markets. Not all
markets and verticals will be targeted simultaneously;we'll align with any paid
programm ing but supplement additional earned opportunities.
CULINARY ENTHUSIASTS FAMILIES AFFLUENT TRAVELERS NATURE & OUTDOOR
EMERGING LUXERS TARGET REGIONAL MARKETS
Culinary tourism is quickly emerging as one of the
fastest-growing sectors in travel. As baby
boomers—and increasingly Gen X—enjoy more
flexibility in their schedules, they're seeking
meaningful ways to indulge their passions. For
many, that means exploring destinations through
food, diving into authentic flavors, regional
specialties, and the stories behind each dish.
Young families, multigenerational families and
skip generational travel (without the parents) are
ideal targets. More social studies teachers are
employing experiential learning techniques in the
classroom, incentivizing parents to supplement
with enriching travel experiences.
From luxury accommodations and fine dining to
exclusive cultural and wellness offerings, this
audience values authenticity, personalization, and
premium service. Our efforts will align with key
moments and media that influence their decision-
making, securing placements in top-tier lifestyle,
travel, and business outlets to drive awareness
and inspire bookings.
Nature tours, national parks, active outdoor
adventures, sightseeing, and eco-experiences
aren’t just activities—they’re powerful trip
motivators that inspire curiosity, wellness, and a
sense of stewardship. Gaining clarity and calm,
we become more grounded, more adventurous,
and more inspired to protect the beauty that
surrounds us.
The future of luxury travel is younger, more diverse,and purpose-driven. Emerging affluents—
primarily Gen X and Millennials earning $120K–$249K—are entering peak earning years, with
nearly 10 million qualifying households.Gen X’s wealth is projected to grow 31% by 2030, and
diverse travelers will soon make up the majority of the luxury market.
For Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau, this shift offers a chance to
engage high-value visitors seeking more than relaxation. While older travelers value history,
younger audiences are drawn to meaningful experiences, eco-exploration, and mission-focused
storytelling that reflects the region’s natural and cultural richness.
FLORIDA (TOP DRIVE MARKET):
•Tampa
•Miami
•Fort Lauderdale
•Orlando
•Jacksonville
NON-STOP FLIGHT MARKETS:
•Major metro areas including but not
limited to Atlanta,Chicago, Boston,
Dallas, New York, Philadelphia,
Minneapolis, Newark
•Secondary markets serviced by smaller
carriers such as Columbus, OH, Hartford,
CT, Louisville, KY, Norfolk, VA
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FOR MORE THAN 40 YEARS, WE HAVE BEEN THE MEDIA’S MOST TRUSTED,GO-
TO RESOURCE FOR NEWS AND INFORMATION.
That’s why our clients regularly appear in the most desirable outlets ranging from New York
Times, The Wall Street Journal, Town & Country, the covers of Travel + Leisure and Condé
Nast Traveler. Our premier client roster is unmatched and our personal media relationships
give us access to editors-in-chief and the hottest influencers. We receive the call when a
journalist needs ideas. It’s why you often see multiple LHG clients making up the bulk of a
given story.
We are storytellers at heart and know to craft your story to distinguish it for media members
who are inundated on a daily basis. Our process begins with a full immersion into your
organization as we become an extension of your team.From there, we work with you to cull
those trending ideas and story angles that will be both newsworthy and personally tailored to
the journalist’s or influencer’s needs. Often our media friends comment that this uncommon
personalization is appreciated.
THE MOST TRUSTED MEDIA RESOURCE
IMMERSION TARGETING IDEATION EXECUTION RESULTS
YOUR NEWS BUREAU
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GOAL
OUR MISSION
Support Naples,Marco Island,Everglades Convention &Visitors Bureau by generating positive media and
consumer awareness that reintroduces the Paradise Coast as a beloved destination with endless new
stories to tell—an iconic Florida escape that invites visitors to return time and again,each season offering
something unexpected and unforgettable.
OUR STRATEGY
•Through creative storytelling, bold media relations,and strategic awards outreach,
position the region not just as a favorite for relaxation, but as a dynamic destination where
culture, nature, luxury, and adventure coexist in surprising harmony.
•Elevate local tourism leaders and passionate ambassadors as trusted voices who can
shine a light on the evolving spirit of the destination—from immersive Everglades eco-
experiences and rising culinary stars to off-the-beaten-path gems and new wellness and
arts offerings.
•Fuel awareness through integrated PR campaigns that align seamlessly with advertising,
digital, and broader marketing efforts—ensuring a unified message that deepens
consumer connection and invites exploration beyond the expected.
•Highlight the impact and momentum of the CVB’s efforts by sharing results, forecasts, and
insights that demonstrate the Paradise Coast’s evolving appeal and economic value.
Provide engaging, value-added PR opportunities that energize tourism partners and
encourage collaboration.
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THEMATIC ARCS ARE OUR FOUNDATION FOR TAILORED MEDIA OUTREACH AND
APPROACH.
A thematic arc is an overarching story we want to tell in an editorial tone.
Each is deeply rooted in Naples, Marco Island, Everglades’ DNA. They don’t change radically year-
over-year. We encourage and develop brands to think in five-year arcs.
THEMATIC ARCS
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ARC EXAMPLE:
TIMELESS MEETS TREND
Naples has long been synonymous with coastal elegance–a classic destination known for its white-sand
beaches, world-class golf, and polished downtown charm. But a new generation is discovering what loyal
travelers have known for decades: Naples is more than timeless–it’s evolving. This thematic arc explores the
juxtaposition of the city’s rich tradition with its increasingly vibrant, youthful spirit–where historic charms meets
culinary experimentation, art walks meet artisan cocktails, and flip-flops share the sidewalk with fashion-
forward travelers.
Naples is at an inflection point, welcoming a wave of modern travelers who care authenticity, culture, and
luxury with a twist. With a surge in millennial and Gen Z visitation, there’s a prime opportunity to reintroduce
Naples not just as a destination for sunseekers and snowbirds, but as a magnetic escape for tastemakers,
digital creators, and culture explorers. New hotel concepts, indie restaurants, and refreshed districts are
offering fresh takes on a beloved classic –proving that Naples isn’t just enduring, it’s surprisingly current.
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15
ARC EXAMPLE:
FROM SEA TO SOUL: A CULINARY EVOLUTION ON FLORIDA’S PARADISE COAST
On Florida’s Paradise Coast, food is a reflection of place–rooted in history, shaped by the sea, and reimaged
by a new generation of culinary creatives. Longstanding traditions like the Stone Crab Festival in Naples and
the Everglades Seafood Festival in Everglades City celebrate the region’s fishing heritage and deep
connection to its natural surroundings. Meanwhile, the Naples Winter Wine Festival puts the city on the global
stage each January, blending philanthropy with world-class wine and cuisine.
But beyond the festivals, a quieter transformation is taking place in kitchens across the coast. Chefs like
Chopped winner Kayla Pfeiffer of Bicyclette Cookshop, are leading the charge in sustainable, innovative
dining. With compost-inspired dishes, local sourcing, and fermentation-forward menus, Naples is evolving into
a destination where culinary experiences are not only elevated–but also ethical and environmentally
conscious. Here, heritage meets horizon, and every bite tells a deeper story.
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ARC EXAMPLE:
THE GLADESMEN –AMERICA’S LAST WILDERNESS, REIMAGINED
As the 80th anniversary of Everglades National Park approaches in 2027, a renewed spotlight shines on one
of America’s greatest natural treasures—and the people who know it best. This thematic arc explores
The Gladesmen, a compelling and timely narrative about cultural preservation, sustainable tourism, and the
evolving identity of Florida’s wild frontier.
Rooted in more than a century of tradition and tied closely to the Everglades’ original stewards, The
Gladesmen culture offers visitors an unexpected lens into the third-largest national park in the U.S. and the
largest subtropical wilderness in North America. As climate awareness and interest in nature-based travel
grow, the timing is right to reintroduce Everglades City and the western Everglades as Florida’s frontier of eco-
luxury and cultural authenticity.
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ARC EXAMPLE:
MARCO ISLAND: A BLUE ZONE-INSPIRED DESTINATION FOR WELLNESS, SUSTAINABILITY
AND LONGEVITY
Marco Island is a recognized Blue Zone community, known for its natural beauty, outdoor lifestyle, and
commitment to healthy living—traits that make it an ideal destination for wellness-focused travel. Activities
like kayaking through the mangroves, boat tours of the Thousand Islands with biologists, and forest bathing
promote mental well-being, while creative experiences like painting at Rookery Bay and visiting the Marco
Island Center for the Arts foster mindfulness. Visitors can immerse themselves in eco-friendly tours,
sustainable dining and a focus on preserving the landscape.
With its emphasis on nature, relaxation, and sustainability, Marco Island offers the perfect setting to
rejuvenate both body and mind. This wellness-centered approach is reflected in 2025 offerings at the JW
Marriott Marco Island, such as functional foods like sea moss and sea asparagus, along with a hydrotherapy
circuit that complements the Blue Zone lifestyle.
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
THE HIGH LIFE CREATIVE CONCEPTS
YOUR CHAMPAGNE DREAMS COME TRUE
Naples, Florida, has long been a destination where
luxury meets paradise, offering an unparalleled blend
of world-class accommodations, fine dining and
exclusive events. From lavish resorts to Michelin-
quality dining and elite gatherings, Naples provides
the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable escape.
A STAY IN UNRIVALED LUXURY
Discerning travelers can indulge in five-star
accommodations at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples,or the
JW Marriott Marco Island, both renowned for their
breathtaking oceanfront views and impeccable
service. With the highly anticipated opening of the
Four Seasons Naples, the city’s reputation as a
premier luxury destination continues to grow.
CULINARY INDULGENCE AT ITS FINEST
Naples is home to an exceptional culinary scene,
where Sails Restaurant delights with a luxurious
champagne brunch set in an elegant coastal
atmosphere, while Bleu Provence transports guests to
the South of France with its acclaimed French cuisine
and award-winning wine selection.
EXCLUSIVE EVENTS & EXPERIENCES
•Cars of 5th: One of the country’s most prestigious
car shows, featuring a stunning collection of exotic
and classic automobiles.
•Naples Winter Wine Festival: A premier event for
wine connoisseurs, bringing together world-class
vintners and celebrated chefs, all in support of
philanthropic cause.
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THE HIGH LIFE CREATIVE CONCEPTS
A TASTE OF PARADISE
Southwest Florida is a culinary and cultural gem,
where fresh, locally inspired cuisine meets rich
traditions and vibrant festivals. From innovative,
sustainability-driven dining to time-honored fishing
heritage and lively Caribbean celebrations, the region
offers an unforgettable journey for food lovers and
culture seekers alike.
SUSTAINABLE & INSPIRED DINING
At Bicyclette Cookshop, food is more than a meal –
it’s a story of sustainability and creativity. Known for
turning scraps into something special, the restaurant
embraces upcycling, transforming overlooked
ingredients into innovative, flavorful creations.
A CELEBRATION OF FISHING HERITAGE
Everglades City honors its rich maritime history with
events that showcase the region’s deep connection to
the sea and commitment to community, beginning
with the Blessing of the Fleet and culminating in the
Everglades Seafood Festival.
A CULTURAL ESCAPE TO THE CARIBBEAN
The town of Ave Maria transforms into a tropical
paradise during the Ave Maria Caribbean Fest –USA
Today 10Best’s No. 9 Best New Festival (2025) –where
the vibrant rhythms, flavors and traditions of the islands
come to life. From authentic Caribbean cuisine to steel
drum performances and colorful cultural displays, this
event offers a taste of the tropics in the heart of Florida.
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THE HIGH LIFE CREATIVE CONCEPTS
STAY IN STYLE: ARTS, DESIGN, CULTURE
Naples, Florida, is more than just a beach
destination–it’s a hub for arts, design and culture,
where creative expression thrives alongside luxurious
experiences.
CELEBRATING ARTISTIC VISION
Naples is home to remarkable artists and galleries
that showcase the city’s creative heartbeat.
•Joan Sonnenberg, a 94-year-old Naples artist,
continues to inspire with her vibrant works that
capture the essence of time and movement.
•The Patina Collection, curated by Karen Abell,
offers a carefully selected mix of antique and
contemporary pieces, making it a must-visit for art
and design lovers.
CULTURAL LANDMARKS EVOLVE
The Baker Museum invites visitors to immerse
themselves in dynamic contemporary art exhibitions
and engaging traveling installations, now enhanced
by the newly unveiled Sculpture Trail. Just off Fifth
Avenue South, the Naples Art Institute further
enriches the city’s cultural fabric with expertly curated
exhibitions and the unique opportunity to engage with
its Artist in Residence, witnessing the creative
process firsthand.
DYNAMIC SPORTS & LIFESTYLE EXPERIENCES
•USL Naples brings the excitement of professional
soccer to the region, giving sports fans a new
reason to visit.
•Pickleball, a growing sensation, has taken Naples
by storm, with world-class courts and facilitates
catering to both casual players and pros.
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A BOUTIQUE STAY WITH CHARACTER
For a sophisticated and intimate retreat, The Perry
Hotel Naples offers a boutique experience that
blends modern luxury with local charm.With 8 marina
slips, it is uniquely positioned as a launching point for
your paradise adventures on land and sea.
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
THE WILDLIFE CREATIVE CONCEPTS
ROOTED IN NATURE
Naples, Florida, is an idyllic destination for those seeking to connect with nature in its purest form. Rooted in natural
beauty, the region offers immersive experiences that allow visitors to explore its unique ecosystems, from the
Everglades to the Gulf Coast. Here, outdoor adventures and tranquil moments come together, offering an
unforgettable retreat.
SWAMP WALKING: EXPLORE NATURE’S
HIDDEN WONDERS
Get up close to the Everglades on a guided swamp walk.
Traverse the wetlands on foot as expert naturalists share
their knowledge of this thriving ecosystem, from rare
wildlife sightings to plant species that have thrived for
centuries.
SEA TURTLE SEASON
From May to October, Naples becomes a prime location
for witnessing the incredible sea turtle nesting season.
Take part in guided tours to watch these ancient creatures
come ashore to nest or learn about conservation
efforts that protect the delicate balance of marine life in
the region.
SHELLING: A GULF COAST TREASURE HUNT
Known for its pristine beaches, Naples offers some of the
best shelling opportunities along the Gulf Coast. From the
iconic, spiral-shaped conchs to tiny, intricate specimens,
collectors and beachgoers alike can find treasures washed
up the by waves.
EVERGLADES’ STARGAZING ESCAPE:
INTERNATIONAL DARK SKY
Experience breathtaking stargazing in the Everglades,
where the International Dark Sky designation offers clear
views of the Milky Way and constellations, further
enhanced by night-sky events including constellation
tours, evening bike rides and nocturnal wildlife guest
speakers.
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THE WILDLIFE CREATIVE CONCEPTS
THE PIONEERS OF FLORIDA’S LAST FRONTIER
Naples, Florida, is more than a scenic escape—it’s a place
that honors the legacy of the Gladesmen, Florida’s
original frontier pioneers. These resilient settlers lived in
harmony with the Everglades, shaping the region’s
history and culture.
DISCOVER THE GLADESMAN LEGACY
The rich heritage of the Gladesmen comes to life
thought immersive eco-tourism experiences.
Everglades Adventure Tours, located in Ochopee,
provides an authentic look into this unique culture,
offering visitors a chance to connect with the
traditions and lifestyle of these early pioneers.
ECO-TOURISM WITH A GLADESMAN TOUCH
Guided pole boat tours, canoe excursions, swamp
hikes, and backcountry camping adventures offer
insight into the Gladesmen’s way of life. These
experiences provide a deeper understanding of their
history, survival skills and the modern challenges they
face, while showcasing the pristine landscapes they
have long called home.
A JOURNEY INTO FLORIDA’S LAST FRONTIER
For those seeking a more immersive experience, T rail
L akes Campground offers eco-friendly stays in
traditional Seminole Indian Chickees. These rustic
swamp cabins provide a serene retreat amid the open
grassland prairies, allowing guests to experience the
Everglades’ natural beauty firsthand and support the
locals' way of life.
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LHG uses a dynamic calendar that maps out big initiatives of our program.We’ll keep it flexible
enough to accommodate events and changes, but this master map ensures that we're giving
equal attention to all of Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau’s stories
and priorities.
THE CALENDAR CROSS-REFERENCES:
•How key thematic arcs will be pitched to both long- and short-lead media during every
quarterly period, ensuring there is plenty of time to gather relative information.
•Key verticals,drive, top non-stop flight and emerging markets and seasonal offerings to
ensure that we're promoting accurate timelines. We will also track our efforts to make sure
we are equally representing all aspects of the destination.
•We include a mix of key events and milestones in addition to others that are new or up and
coming and any corresponding promotions that are of interest to the U.S. market.
INTEGRATED CALENDAR
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INDUSTRY ENGAGEMENT
OUR APPROACH
Personalized partner opportunities for Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention
& Visitors Bureau formatted in custom, user-friendly shared Google Document.
HOT TIPS MEDIA LEADS PROGRAM
LHG ENSURES INDUSTRY PARTNERS ARE ENGAGED, ACTIVE PARTICIPANTS SEEING
THE VALUE PROVIDED BY NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION &
VISITORS BUREAU.
SERVICES OFFERED:
•Provide real value to partners through LHG’s “Hot Tips” media leads program. Ongoing media leads
shared with partners provide details on topic, assets needed and deadline.
•Create partner learning opportunities:
•Conduct PR seminars, invite media/influencers to join with local journalists for panel
discussion
•Develop webinars, such subjects as influencers, crisis
•Arrange niche seminars on a regional basis
•Launch Media Ambassadors Program to showcase Naples, Marco Island, Everglades as a vibrant,
trend-setting destination, designate experts from different sectors
•Create resource guide, bios, expertise; alert media to availability as story resources
•Develop media cheat sheets that leverage the rich, diverse aspects of the different regions
•Detail historic significance, fun facts, culinary, retail, attractions, noteworthy personalities
•Share media results with featured partners, stress how important their contribution was to success
•Provide LHG documents:
•Hotel/Tourism Awards, globally
•Travel Industry Meetings, globally
•Holiday Calendar Listings, deadlines
•”The Social-lite,” recap social and digital happenings; monthly
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The New York Times, Vogue.com,
Travel + Leisure, and Condé Nast Traveler
CHRISTINE CHITNIS
Based in Rhode Island,Christine regularly visits Naples
to see her parents and is now planning to extend her
family’s December-January trip in 2025 to explore
Florida beyond her usual spots.She’s eager to
experience the destination through the local CVB’s
perspective and is interested in crafting a story about
finding the most authentic experience and local
guides when fishing,boating,and exploring the
Everglades.After discussing Bicyclette Cookshop,
Christine is excited to write about Naples’s emerging
food scene,particularly its sustainable dining options
and innovative culinary trends.
Garden + Gun,
Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure
CRAI BOWER
A seasoned travel journalists based in Seattle,Crai
Bower specializes in luxury travel,unique cultural
experiences and off-the beaten path adventures.His
interest in high-end escapes and wellness-driven
destinations makes him a perfect fit for the luxury
resorts and eco-conscious experience in Florida’s
Paradise Coast.An avid golfer,Crai appreciates the
artistry and challenge of world-class courses,making
him well-suited to showcase the region’s golf offerings.
Whether he’s exploring local history and experiential
travel or discovering the finest high tea,dining and spa
experiences,Crai’s attention to detail and discerning
test can highlight both relaxation and adventure.
Freelance Travel Writer,
National Geographic, Lonely Planet,
Scuba Diving Magazine, Condé Nast Traveler and more
TERRY WARD
Another Florida-based LHG contact,Terry Ward
consistently works with our team to align on story
angles.An enthusiast for diving and all things ocean,
her content skews toward Florida-friendly adventure
and exploration.As an A-tier freelancer,Terry
frequently writes for esteemed national outlets such
as BBC,Forbes,Travel +Leisure,National
Geographic,Scuba Diving Magazine,Fodor’s Travel
and more.
MEDIA CONTACTS: HOW WE WILL PITCH
Media love working with LHG because we’re all about quality over quantity -we ask ourselves:what is the best outlet,individual and section to tell our story?And we get hyper-focused and write the
perfect pitch.Additionally,each day,the LHG team combs through 70 newspapers and nearly 200 websites.The team also reads 100+regional and national magazines monthly to track client/competitor
coverage and identify placement opportunities.Recaps are shared and often discussed throughout the agency.This approach is also reflective when meeting and pitching journalists and social media
influencers.Some of our closest media confidants include:
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Editorial Director,
ShermansTravel and Smart Luxury
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
MEDIA CONTACTS: HOW WE WILL PITCH
Freelance Travel Writer,
CNN Travel, AFAR, Condé Nast Traveler,
Robb Report, New York Post and more
BLANE BACHELOR
An accomplished Amsterdam-based journalist whose
articles about luxury lodging, family travel and
outdoor adventure have earned her ongoing bylines
in CNN Travel, AFAR, Condé Nast Traveler, Robb
Report, New York Post and more. Since Blane grew
up in the Panhandle and still regularly visits Florida-
on assignment, on vacation and sometimes both-
LHG will appeal to her roots, highlight family-friendly
attractions and most importantly, feed her appetite
for luxury travel through new hotel and resort
announcements.
A seasoned travel and food editor,Anne Banas brings
a wealth of experience to her role as Editorial Director
at ShermansTravel and Smart Luxury.Her passion for
local cuisine,culture and quiet luxury aligns seamlessly
with Florida’s Paradise Coast's commitment to
authentic,high-quality experience.Anne’s discerning
palate make her particularly drawn to Naples’boutique
4-5-star hotels and its vibrant culinary scene.She is
eager to showcase how visitors can enjoy the Paradise
Coast year-round,highlighting the best of peak
season,as well as the tranquil beauty of the off-
season.Anne is well-positioned to spotlight the diverse
offerings of Florida’s Paradise Coast.
Travel Journalists, Photographer
Condé Nast Traveler, National Geographic
Traveller, Remodelista, Hotels Above Par
KATHERINE GALLARDO
Katherine Gallardo is a travel journalist,photographer,
and interior designer based in New York City.Her work,
which focuses on travel,design,sustainability,and
wellness,has been featured in esteemed publications
such as Condé Nast Traveler and National Geographic
Traveller.In 2025,Katherine plans to visit Florida
between October-December 2025,aiming to
experience stargazing at Big Cypress National Preserve
and further the Everglades’natural beauty.Her
commitment to sustainability aligns with interests in
establishments like Bicyclette Cookshop and the rich
fishing heritage of areas like Goodland and Everglades
City.Katherine also contributes to Hemispheres
magazine,covering topics related to design,travel,
sustainability,conversation and human-interest stories.
ANNE BANAS
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
SAMPLE MEDIA TARGETS
TRAVEL
LIFESTYLE
THOUGHT
LEADERSHIP IMPACT
FAMILY
Roam
Romper
Parents
Family Destinations Guides
Family Travel Magazine
Wherever Family
Family Vacation Critic
Family Focus Blog
Family Vacationist
FamilyTravel.com
Travel Mamas
MommyTravelers
Mommy Poppins
MICE
FOOD & BEVERAGE
27
AAA Travel
AFAR
BuzzFeed Bring Me
Condé Nast Traveler
CNN Travel
Fox News Travel
Travel Awaits
Fodor’s
Frommers
Hotels Above Par
Outside
Travel + Leisure
Fifty Grande
Smarter Travel
Tripsavvy
Fathom
The Points Guy
Global Traveler
Skift
Travel Weekly
Lonely Planet
Forbes Travel Guide
Bloomberg Pursuits
Phocuswire
Travel Pulse
Luxury Travel Advisor
Travel Market Report
USA Today Travel
USA Today 10Best
Elite Daily
HuffPost
Men’s Journal
Women’s Health
US News & World Report
Thrillist
Refinery29
WSJ
New York Times
Matador Network
Business Insider
Forbes
Parade
Fortune
Garden & Gun
Good Housekeeping
Meetings Today
Northstar Meetings Group
Smart Meetings
Successful Meetings
Corporate & Incentive
Sport & Travel
Small Market Meetings
Bon Appetit
Eater
Imbibe
Food & Wine
Buzzfeed Tasty
Tastemade
Wine Enthusiast
Punch
Chilled
Savuer
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
HOW WE HOST
LHG WILL INVITE AND QUALIFY TOP JOURNALISTS TO NAPLES, MARCO
ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU.
Every FAM opportunity secured will be with an appropriate key writer or publication that
specifically caters to the Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau target
audience and our predetermined “Top 100” key media targets.
In 2024 LHG conducted 314 media visits.
1
6
7
2
3
4
5
BUILD THE ITINERARY
We can use Travefy, an award-winning web and app-based itinerary management
tool, to build out media visit itineraries. It is an aesthetically pleasing interface with
tech-driven solutions, and its ability to be updated automatically in-visit have been
praised by media and clients, enhancing our overall media visiting program.
PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION
We compile appropriate media information into a briefing document to share with your
team and partners ahead of every visit.
DETERMINE GOALS
LHG outlines measurable goals for each visit.
IDENTIFY, ENGAGE, SECURE
We conduct tailored media outreach to our top national and regional outlets to secure
media visits (as budget permits). Visits can be a combination of group FAMs (including
3-4 journalists) and/or individual media.
ESTABLISH THEMES AND ACTIVITIES
We create compelling and bespoke trip themes tailored to the group or individual’s
interests. We’ll work with your team and relevant partners to craft detailed itineraries
for each group or individual.
COVERAGE ANNOUNCEMENTS
A forecast of coverage and copies of published articles will be provided to Naples,
Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau as they become available.
POST-VISIT FOLLOW UP
Once a trip is completed, we provide a comprehensive report and conduct all follow-
up including placement plans, image and interview needs, etc.
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APRIL 8, 2025
BROADCAST
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
LHG will implement a comprehensive campaign to deliver broadcast media coverage. In
addition to pitching dedicated opportunities for Lancaster County to producers and
production companies, LHG will provide content to top travel editors and their publicists at
outlets such as Travel + Leisure and The Points Guy for upcoming morning show
appearances on the likes of The Today Show and Good Morning America. Many of these
outlets will cover "Where to Go" segments for spring, summer, fall, winter or holidays and
send an editor "expert" to dictate travel recommendations. We will leverage seasonality,
annual events and large-scale sports games to drive interest.
Additional broadcast opportunities can include satellite media tours and paid integrations. As
appropriate, LHG will negotiate on behalf of Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention &
Visitors Bureau to facilitate optimal exposure.
FEATURED PLACEMENTS
Access Hollywood
CBS News
CNN
E! News
Food Network
Fox & Friends
Good Morning America
HGTV
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert
Live with Kelly & Mark
MSNBC
Real Housewives
Southern Charm
The Today Show
The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon
Top Chef
Travels with Darley
Places to Love with Samantha Brown
OUR APPROACH
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APRIL 8, 2025
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
BROADCAST
NATIONALRECENT EXAMPLES
30
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APRIL 8, 2025
REACHING NEW HEIGHTS
THROUGH:
Thought Leadership
Associations & Partnerships
Awards
Content Development
Expert Source
Leadership Profiles
Op-Eds
Speaking Engagements
Strategic Brand Partnerships
Subject-Matter Bylines
Tailored Spokesperson Training
BRAND STEWARDSHIP
OUR APPROACH
Today’s credible brands have powerful leaders personifying them by sharing passion, expertise
and experience. A strategic thought leadership program that marries expertise and marketing
helps validate a brand and serves as a valuable generator of media interest and business growth.
With established media relationships, LHG specializes in positioning leaders in the right media
outlets and at key industry events. We work to ensure that your personal brand is fully optimized
online by targeting high-ranking websites that get priority placement in search results and impact
the prominence and authority of your brand’s website. We also ensure that you are well
positioned as a go-to resource for media based on your expertise.
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
PITCH CALENDAR
APRIL 8, 2025 32
TEE OFF IN LUXURY
Where fairways meet five-star service–golf gets a glow-up in Naples.
LOOKING AHEAD: NATIONAL NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH (NOVEMBER)
Explore the indigenous roots of the Everglades with meaningful travel stories.
HAUNTED BY BEAUTY: FALL IN FLORIDA’S PARADISE COAST
Golden hour glow, uncrowded beaches, and autumn adventures await.
OCTOBER 2025
FEAST LIKE A LOCAL
Thanksgiving with a twist–stone crab, sunset views, and seafood feasts.
EVERGLADES ADVENTURES FOR THE COOL-WEATHER EXPLORER
Cooler temps, clearer skies–this is peak season for wild beauty.
HOLIDAY PLANNING IN PARADISE
‘Tis the season to plan a sun-soaked celebration in the most festive setting.
NOVEMBER 2025
SUN, SAND & SEASONAL CHEER
Trade snow boots for flip-flops–holidays shine brightest on the coast.
FESTIVE ON THE WATER
Holiday lights, boat parades, and breezy nights by the Gulf.
PREVIEW: WHAT’S NEW IN 2026
Fresh flavors, bold hotel openings, and reimaged experiences on the horizon.
DECEMBER 2025
RING BY SPRING
Pop the question in paradise–Naples is engagement season’s best-kept secret.
56TH ANNUAL EVERGLADES SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
Old Florida flavor, fresh-off-the-boat seafood, and small-town charm.
PARADISE FOR TWO
Valentine’s Day reimagined–romance meets natural beauty on Florida’s Paradise Coast.
MEDIA MISSION: IMM NYC
Connecting coastal charm with top-tier media in the Big Apple.
MONITORING: JAMES BEARD SEMIFINALISTS ANNOUNCED
Eyes on local chefs serving up national flavor.
JANUARY 2026
A BIRD LOVER’S PARADISE
Where the binocular crowd flocks–over 200 species in one wild, wonderful place.
FAMILY FUN ON FLORIDA’S PARADISE COAST
Spring break with bite–think Naples Zoo, Great Wolf Lodge, and beachy bliss.
SWAMP BUGGY BUD CUP FINALS
It’s loud, it’s muddy, it’s legendary–Florida’s wildest tradition rolls on.
FEBRUARY 2026
THE PERFECTLY AGED ESCAPE
Move over spa days–2025 is the year of the girl gang getaway to Naples.
LUXURY MEETS NATURE: FAM
Luxe linens, wild landscapes–invite-only storytelling coming June.
MARCH 2026
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
PITCH CALENDAR CONT.
APRIL 8, 2025 33
NATIONAL ROAD TRIP DAY MAY (MAY 23)
Hit the backroads to history–Everglades oddities and roadside gems await.
APRIL 2026
ROADSIDE AMERICANA
Snap a selfie at the smallest post office in the U.S.–only in Ochopee.
TOWN-SIZING: MARCO ISLAND
Small in size, big on beauty–Marco Island’s charm is perfectly portioned.
WEIRD & WACKY FLORIDA TRADITIONS: SPAMMY JAMMY
Yes, it’s Spam, it’s a jammy party. And yes, you need to see it to believe it.
MAY 2026
SOLO IN PARADISE
The ultimate “me time” destination–one blissful beach at a time.
MEDIA MISSION: IPW, CHICAGO
Bringing barefoot luxury to the Windy City.
JUNE 2026
FOODIES FLOCK TO PARADISE
Sizzle Dining returns–prepare your palate for the taste of the coast.
DISCOVER PARADISE WITHOUT THE CROWDS
Secret season. Shoulder season. Your season to explore.
JULY 2026
WHERE TO GO IN JANUARY
Start the year with a toast–Naples Winter Wine Festival is your VIP invite.
BACK TO NATURE, BACK TO YOU
Before fall routines return, embrace one last Gulf breeze and golden sunset.
AUGUST 2026
BEST HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS IN FLORIDA
Trade snow for sunsets–holidays shine brighter in Paradise.
WHY FLORIDA’S PARADISE COAST SHOULD BE ON YOUR 2027 TRAVEL BUCKET LIST
Future-forward travel starts in one of Florida’s most inspiring coastal escapes.
SEPTEMBER 2026
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
OCTOBER 2025-SEPTEMBER 2026
BUSINESS PLAN TIMELINE
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
OCTOBER 2025-SEPTEMBER 2026
BUSINESS PLAN TIMELINE
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
AWARDS PROGRAM
36
STRATEGIC AND BUILDING
•Improves awareness
•Increases credibility
•Establishes leadership in the industry and position among competitors
KEY COMPONENTS
•Hotel/Tourism Award Resource Guide, annually
•86 hospitality, destination award and survey opportunities
•Designated agency awards committee identifies, tracks, reports and provides:
•In-depth understanding of award details, timing
•Role of key editors
•Important dates, reminders throughout award process:
•Submission deadlines guaranteeing clients are ‘on the list’
•Nomination announcement date ensuring client can promote
•Voting timeframe: when open, closed, winners announced
•‘Getting Out The Vote’ collateral and implementation
•Download award assets (badges, logo, template press release)
•Review LHG’s signature ‘Award Notification &
Voting Best Practices’ check list
LHG PROVIDES
DEDICATED RESOURCES
TO TRACK AWARDS:
29 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards
#1 Best US City (Charleston); #2 Best US Small City (Santa Fe);
2 Top Caribbean Islands
25 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards
3 Top 10 Small US Cities; 2 Top Caribbean Islands;
3 Top Cruise Ships
12 Southern Living South’s Best Awards
Best City (Charleston); Best College Town (Athens, GA)
12 USA Today 10Best Awards
#2 Best New Hotel; 4 Best Cruise Ship Lines
6 Food & Wine Tastemakers Awards
5 Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards
2 Esquire Best New Hotels
Time Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places (Jamaica)
LHG CLIENTS RECOGNIZED BY:
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APRIL 8, 2025
Our strategic thought leadership program includes partnering with leading research
institutions to collaborate on joint research projects, content creation, executive speaking
engagements, media relations and strategic partnerships to position Naples, Marco Island,
Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Tourism Director, Jay Tusa, as a leading voice in
the tourism industry.
TACTICS
•Build on Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau research with
consumer-driven trends/research to be distributed to business, trade, and consumer media
•Secure broadcast opportunities on prominent shows such as CNBC’s “Squawk Box,”
NBC’s “Today,” and ABC’s “Good Morning America” to highlight travel and tourism trends
•Engage with top-tier media outlets such as Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, and The New
York Times to position Jay Tusa as the go-to expert on tourism industry challenges and
opportunities
•Secure speaking opportunities at industry conferences such as Skift Global Forum,
NYU International Hospitality Industry Investment Conference, the Lodging Conference
and the U.S. Travel Association’s IPW to showcase insights and strategies in travel and
tourism
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
37
THOUGHT LEADERSHIP
OUR APPROACH
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MEASUREMENT & ROI
OUR APPROACH
APRIL 8, 2025
QUALITATIVE QUANTITATIVE ANNUAL PLANS MONTHLY REPORTS
BI-WEEKLY CONFERENCE CALLS
ROI RESULTS
DAILY COMMUNICATION
LHG analyzes daily, real-time totals. Media
placement is unique to monthly online views
circulations, social engagement and reach,
according to your overall goals.
We also provide monthly dashboard reports
that include impressions, number of stories,
pitches, releases, etc., enabling efficient
sharing of activities and results among
appropriate stakeholders.
Create a strategic plan and content calendar
offering a vision for one year. As priorities
change, plan is updated to reflect new
priorities and deviations in the marketplace.
Plan is constantly reviewed to be certain
measurable goals are being met ongoing.
Agenda presented prior, following by detailed
call report.
Works closely to determine measurement
criteria best for Naples, Marco Island,
Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau.
LHG is data-driven in strategies, using ROI to
inform strategic shifts.
Summarizes activities, results, joint reviews
with Naples, Marco Island, Everglades
Convention & Visitors Bureau and LHG.
Available 24/7, understand time restraint, will
be an extension of your team making work
easier for all.
For the past 40 years, LHG has consistently
produced award-winning results. Our
favorite measurement is a happy, long-term
client; our record of longevity is unmatched
in the industry.
•TOP 100 LIST
•Strategic approach with Google
Docs spreadsheet that is
continuously updated with
conversations and coverage
•HAMMOND 10 SYSTEM FACTORING
•Target outlet efficiency
•Social amplification
•Imagery usage
•Link usage
•Key message pull through; share of
voice
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
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MEASUREMENT & ROI
LHG REPORTING DASHBOARD
APRIL 8, 2025
In addition to the monthly activity report, LHG provides exclusive reporting
dashboards to its clients. The dashboard includes mutually agreed-upon
metrics and information for ongoing tracking. It can be used to generate special
reports and provide coverage recaps for specific initiatives, events, etc.
MEDIA COVERAGE
Monthly/YTD Media Impressions
Monthly/YTD Ad Value Equivalency
Monthly/YTD Stories
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
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The media landscape changes daily with new content produced by journalists, working with
new publishers on new media. Muck Rack’s powerful media monitoring uses the latest
advances in AI and machine learning technology to source and surface relevant information
from across the web, social media, TV and radio.
MUCK RACK
This end-to-end social media influencer marketing platform tracks campaign performance in
real time and maximizes the impact of curated content and dedicated campaigns. Sprout
Social’s advanced features, such as robust search capabilities and detailed audience
analytics, enable LHG to identify the most relevant and effective influencers for client target
audiences.
SPROUT SOCIAL INFLUENCER MARKETING
MEASUREMENT & ROI
SYSTEMS LHG UTILIZES
APRIL 8, 2025
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
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ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT
APRIL 8, 2025 59
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
REAL-TIME ACCOUNT OVERVIEW
With curated Google Docs, LHG shares real-time updates spotlighting current media relations, secured covered and anticipated editorial run dates.
READING PROGRAM
Through a comprehensive reading program, executed by every staff member at LHG, countless leads are shared internally daily.
INITIATIVE COLLABORATION
With national reach and a regional approach, the bandwidth of LHG spans all categories of media relations, events, promotions, broadcast and more. Team members are dialed into Naples, Marco Island,
Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau’s needs and goals and act as a unit to support initiatives and vision.
MEDIA RELATIONS
To ensure all PR efforts are efficient and valuable, our team will create a streamlined account management process to capitalize on media leads, workflow and organization.
Lou Hammond Group ensures dedicated account teams and clients are always in sync, ready to tackle both reactive and proactive opportunities.
COMPILE
Content calendar to identify proactive/opportunistic leads.
COORDINATE
Alert industry partners to opportunities of upcoming leads/deadlines. Utilize Google Forms for ease of information gathering.
CREATE
ParadiseCoast@louhammond.com alias to streamline communications between internal brand contacts and partners.
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
SOCIAL MEDIA INTEGRATION
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APRIL 8, 2025
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
LHG believes in an integrated approach through which your brand’s voice connects across all
marketing initiatives and platforms.We achieve results through creative,value-driven
campaigns,strategic thinking and quick actions resulting in bottom-line growth for our clients.
Whether establishing a presence and increasing your reach on social,creating thumb-
stopping content,driving traffic to your website,connecting and engaging with your audience
or positioning your brand as an industry thought leader,we ensure your overall objectives are
always met.
SOCIAL MEDIA
OUR APPROACH
43
WE OFFER
Reputation Auditing
Strategic Consulting
Content Development
Community Management
Influencer Marketing
Measurement & Reporting
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A DYNAMIC DUO
MAXIMIZING PR EFFORTS ON SOCIAL
APRIL 8, 2025
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION &
VISITORS BUREAU
44
In today’s digital age, social media platforms serve as powerful tools for
connecting with audiences, shaping brand perceptions, and amplifying messaging
in ways never before possible. At LHG, we integrate these platforms seamlessly
into our public relations strategy to maximize the impact of our efforts.
THIS APPROACH INCLUDES:
•Ensuring a strong social presence across platforms. This includes staying up-
to-date on each platform’s best practices to ensure content is aligned.
•Tapping into key trends. We identify the latest social media trends and
creatively integrate them with PR strategies on social platforms.
•Leveraging influencer marketing. We tap into our database of vetted
influencers to drive brand awareness, engagement and support strategic
initiatives.
•Building relationships. By targeting outlets and journalists with an active online
presence, we engage with industry thought leaders while promoting online
coverage.
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
OUR SERVICES
45
SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGY
•Target communications strategies to deliver impactful and
inspiring messages through social media platforms
•Strategic social media planning
•Determine goals and key objectives
•Develop audience persona
COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT
•Management and collaboration with the CVB to manage
its social media community
•Content programming
•Audience engagement
CONTENT STRATEGY
•Develop timely and relevant content plans and schedules
based on key learning and brand objective
•Identify and set goals
•Plan social content, monthly
•Build content calendar
•Establish analytics review
•Organic content creation
CONTENT MANAGEMENT
•Utilize effective tools and practices to create
content and curate campaigns to manage content
across multiple brand touch points
•Content gathering missions
•Social media asset management
•Conversion / lead generation
•Page management
ANALYTICS & REPORTING
•Analysis of data and key performance metrics that
will drive the CVB’s ability to assess business
decisions
•Social media intelligence
•Social conversations
•Emerging trends
•Social media listening / monitoring
•Audience reach / sentiment / engagement
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PURPOSE:
•Facebook is the go-to platform for connecting with both locals and travelers. We’ll use it to share in-depth stories, community
events, and destination highlights, fostering a sense of connection and encouraging engagement from a broad audience.
TACTICS:
•Foster Community Connection –We’ll use Facebook to engage locals and visitors alike with interactive posts and
destination spotlights. By responding to comments and encouraging discussions, we’ll create a welcoming space for
travelers to connect.
•Leverage Event Promotion –From seasonal festivals to local markets, we’ll highlight events that make Naples, Marco Island,
and Everglades a must-visit. Timely event posts, live updates, and boosted promotions will drive attendance and
engagement.
•Share Engaging Storytelling –Longer-form captions and posts will showcase in-depth travel experiences, from hidden
gems to unique local businesses. By telling compelling stories, we’ll inspire visitors to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.
•Amplify User-Generated Content –We’ll showcase authentic visitor experiences. Featuring real photos and stories from
travelers builds trust, encourages engagement, and inspires future visitors to explore and share their own experiences.
EXAMPLES:
•Ask followers, “What’s your favorite sunset spot in Naples?” and engage with responses.
•Promote the Marco Island Seafood & Music Festival with a mix of posts leading up to the event, live updates during, and a
recap featuring attendee photos and testimonials.
•Highlight a local Everglades eco-tour guide, sharing their story and passion for preserving the region’s unique ecosystems.
•Feature a visitor’s post kayaking through Rookery Bay Reserve, resharing their breathtaking photo with a caption like,
“Exploring Naples’ hidden waterways—tag us in your adventures for a chance to be featured!”
APRIL 8, 2025
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
FACEBOOK
46
CHANNEL DIRECTION
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PURPOSE:
•Instagram is where the CVB’s visual beauty comes to life. Through stunning imagery and short-form videos, we’ll
showcase breathtaking landscapes, experiences, and real-time updates, capturing the essence of what makes the area a
must-visit destination.
TACTICS:
•Stay Ahead of Trends –We’ll ensure the CVB remains top of mind by creating timely, engaging content that taps into
trending travel moments, sounds, and formats. From scenic destination highlights to must-visit experiences, we’ll produce
shareable content that inspires visitors.
•Focus on Savable Content –Our strategy prioritizes valuable content that encourages users to save and share,
increasing visibility and engagement. By crafting informative, inspiring posts, we’ll strengthen audience connections and
boost reach.
•Video-First Strategy –Short-form video is key to maximizing engagement. We’ll leverage high-quality visuals and
trending audio to enhance discoverability and keep the CVB front and center on social feeds.
•Real-Time Engagement via Stories –Interactive Stories will drive engagement and showcase everything from local
events to outdoor adventures. Polls, quizzes, and Q&As will invite participation, while Highlights will ensure key content
remains accessible.
EXAMPLES:
•Create a Reel using a trending sound to showcase a "Day in Paradise" itinerary featuring sunrise at Naples Pier, a boat
tour in the Ten Thousand Islands, and sunset cocktails on Marco Island.
•Design a carousel post titled “5 Hidden Gems in the Everglades You Need to Visit”, featuring off-the-beaten-path trails,
scenic boardwalks, and wildlife spotting tips, encouraging users to save it for future trips.
•Post a slow-motion Reel of a dolphin spotting tour in the Gulf of Mexico, paired with a trending audio track, capturing the
magic of marine life in Collier County.
•Share behind-the-scenes coverage of the Naples Stone Crab Festival, including live taste tests, Q&A with local chefs, and
a poll asking followers to vote for their favorite seafood dish. Save key moments in a dedicated "Foodie Guide" Highlight.
APRIL 8, 2025
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
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INSTAGRAM
CHANNEL DIRECTION
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PURPOSE:
•Pinterest is a dream board for future travelers. We’ll curate inspiring pins that highlight local attractions, hidden gems,
seasonal activities, and travel planning tips, encouraging users to save and revisit their Naples,Marco Island, Everglades
vacation ideas.
TACTICS:
•Create Evergreen Travel Inspiration –We’ll design eye-catching pins featuring must-visit locations, seasonal travel guides,
and itinerary ideas that users can save and reference when planning trips.
•Optimize for Searchability –Pinterest acts as a search engine for travel planning. We’ll craft keyword-rich pin descriptions
and boards to ensure the CVB’s content ranks high and reaches potential visitors actively searching for trip ideas.
•Leverage Seasonal Trends –We’ll align content with seasonal interests, from beach getaways in the summer to nature
escapes in the winter, ensuring year-round visibility and engagement.
•Drive Website Traffic –Every pin will be strategically linked to the CVB’s website, blog posts, or travel guides, turning
inspiration into action and increasing referral traffic.
EXAMPLES:
•Design a "Best Beaches in Collier County"pin with vibrant images of Naples Beach, Tigertail Beach on Marco Island, and
Barefoot Beach Preserve. Include a brief description of each location, making it perfect for users planning a relaxing coastal
getaway.
•Curate a "Top 10 Things to Do in the Everglades"board filled with pins like "Wildlife Tours in Everglades City" and "Must-
See Trails for Hiking in the Everglades," ensuring each pin description uses travel-related keywords like "Everglades eco-
tours" and "Florida nature adventures."
•Create a pin for a “Winter Getaways in Collier County”featuring cozy indoor activities like local art galleries and dining
spots, paired with seasonal nature walks and sunset views, all ideal for winter visitors looking to escape the cold.
•Pin a “Weekend Getaway Itinerary in Marco Island”with a link to a detailed blog post on the CVB’s website, including
personalized tips for a three-day vacation, from water sports to dining recommendations, encouraging users to plan their
visit.
APRIL 8, 2025
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
PINTEREST
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CHANNEL DIRECTION
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49APRIL 8, 2025
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
INFLUENCER MARKETING MANAGER
We offer a comprehensive influencer marketing management strategy to support brand awareness, engagement and conversions
through influencer partnerships. Our approach ensures strategic vetting, creative alignment and data-driven reporting to maximize ROI.
INFLUENCER RESEARCH & VETTING
We will identify and secure influencers who align with the brand’s values, target audience and marketing objectives.
•Develop an influencer criteria matrix (audience demographics, engagement rate, content style, past collaborations and
authenticity).
•Conduct thorough vetting using industry tools (e.g., Sprout Social Influencer Management) to assess follower authenticity,
engagement quality and content performance.
CREATIVE BRIEF & STRATEGY
A well-defined creative direction will guide influencer content to ensure brand consistency and messaging impact.
•Develop a detailed creative brief with campaign objectives, key messaging, content themes and brand guidelines.
•Provide influencers with content inspiration and deliverable expectations (e.g., Instagram posts, TikTok, Reels, Stories, blog
features, etc.).
•Ensure brand alignment while allowing influencers creative freedom to maintain authenticity.
REPORTING & ANALYTICS
Performance tracking and ROI measurement to evaluate the success of influencer partnerships.
•Monitor key metrics including reach, impressions, engagement, clicks and conversions.
•Compile performance reports with insights on best-performing influencers, content types and audience behavior
•Optimize strategy based on data findings, adjusting influencer mix, content approach and engagement tactics as needed.
INFLUENCER HOSTING
Influencer hosting will take place throughout the year to align with key campaign milestones and maximize content impact.
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
INFLUENCER MARKETING
To showcase a diverse mix of experiences throughout Naples, Marco Island, Everglades, LHG recommends
engaging a dynamic group of travel and lifestyle influencers, with intentional emphasis on nature, arts, and
culture to reach target markets and demographics.
SUGGESTED INFLUENCERS
@ cass.spinelli
Cass Spinelli
•148k followers –Instagram
•5%engagement rate
•Location: St. Pete, FL
•Family,Lifestyle
@the_essentialist_
Joanna Adach
•194k followers –Instagram
•3%engagement rate
•Location: Miami, FL
•Luxury Travel
@ jesskidding_
Jess Menendez
•25k followers –Instagram
•61% engagement rate
•Location: St. Pete, FL
•Travel, Lifestyle
50
SAMPLING
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APRIL 8, 2025
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INFLUENCER OUTREACH STRATEGY & PLAN
51
DEFINE CAMPAIGN GOALS & OBJECTIVES
We start by outlining clear and measurable campaign goals to ensure our outreach is aligned with your overall marketing objectives (e.g., tracking
specific KPIs such as reach, clicks, or conversion rates). These could include:
•Brand Awareness
•Engagement & Interactions
•Conversions & Sales
•Content Creations
IDENTIFY THE RIGHT INFLUENCERS
Next, we identify influencers who align with your brand values, target audience and marketing objectives.
•Audience Demographics –Match influencers whose followers fit your ideal customer profile.
•Engagement Rates –Prioritize influencers with active, engaged audiences (3-5% engagement rate) over those with large but passive
followings.
•Content Style –Choose influencers whose content style resonates with your brand’s tone, values and messaging.
•Authenticity –Vet influencers based on their credibility and authenticity. We look for consistent, honest engagement rather than influencers
who seem to push paid promotions excessively.
TAILORED OUTREACH
We take a tailored approach to influencer outreach, ensuring your brand connects with the right voices for maximum impact.
•Custom Outreach Strategy –Personalized outreach for each influencer, considering platform, messaging and timing to optimize
engagement.
•Compelling Communication –Our team develops customized messages that highlight why the influencer is a perfect fit.
•Seamless Execution –We handle outreach, providing influencers with expectations, deliverables and compensation details.
•Expert Negotiation –From rates to content timelines, we manage all discussions to secure agreements that align with your brand’s goals.
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PROVIDE CLEAR CAMAPIGN BRIEFS
Once an influencer is onboard, provide a detailed creative brief that outlines expectations and guidelines.
•Campaign Objective –Clearly communicate our goals and how we envision the influencer’s content supporting them.
•Key Messaging –Share any messaging or themes that need to be incorporated into the content.
•Creative Freedom –Allow influencers the creative freedom to present the brand in a way that resonates with their audience.
•Content should feel natural to their voice while aligning with the brand’s image.
•Deliverables –Outline specific content types (e.g., Instagram posts, Reels, TikToks, blog features, etc.), deadlines and any
tagging or hashtag requirements.
MONITOR & MEASURE PERFORMANCE
Track the success of your influencer outreach and make data-driven decisions to optimize future efforts.
•Key Metrics –Monitor reach, impressions, engagement rates, clicks and conversions.
•Content Performance –Evaluate which types of content and influencers drive the best results.
•Adjust Strategy –Based on campaign data, adjust influencer selection, messaging, or content formats to maximize ROI.
APRIL 8, 2025
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
INFLUENCER OUTREACH STRATEGY & PLAN
(CONT.)
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025 53
CASE STUDY
CHALLENGE Increase Visit Mississippi’s overall social media impressions, engagement, reach
and link clicks to drive awareness for the destination.
ACTION •Created and implemented a dedicated social media strategy, including
sourcing impactful user-generated content and in-house photo and video,
utilizing strong engagement tactics (interactive Stories and Reels videos),
incorporating strategic hashtags, facilitating content campaigns and running
social media giveaways.
•Maintained a consistent and optimal posting schedule and utilized publishing
platform Hootsuite to ensure posting is aligned with user behavior.
•Monitored platform optimization and growth with monthly social reports.
RESULTS In 2024, Visit Mississippi's pages saw significant growth, gaining 9K followers,
generating over 54M impressions,2.7M video views, 1.4M engagements and
more than 1.7K link clicks across Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.
VISIT MISSISSIPPI | SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025 54
CASE STUDY
CHALLENGE Elevate Monterey County’s reputation as a world-class destination through
strategic social media efforts. Drive overnight visitation by increasing
impressions, engagement, video views and link clicks while championing
sustainable, inclusive and responsible tourism practices.
ACTION •Conducted a comprehensive audit of owned and competitor channels to
identify opportunities for growth and improvement.
•Developed and implemented a robust social media strategy, complete with
brand guidelines, refreshed Instagram highlight icons and plans to expand
onto emerging platforms like TikTok.
•Delivered strategic monthly recommendations to align content with user
behavior and trends, prioritizing Reels to maximize reach and engagement.
•Leveraged local content creators to boost user-generated content (UGC)
and social proof via the collaborator feature, expanding audience reach.
•Monitored platform optimization and growth with monthly social reports.
RESULTS In 2024, See Monterey’s pages saw significant growth, gaining 14K followers,
generating over 93M impressions, 9.9M video views, 848K engagements and
more than 176K link clicks across Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, Pinterest
and YouTube.
SEE MONTEREY | SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGY
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APRIL 8, 2025 55
CASE STUDY
CHALLENGE Increase the page’s overall impressions, engagements and link clicks to result in
increased overall awareness of Providence as a premier arts and multi-cultural
destination.
ACTION •Enhanced social media strategy with a focus on the organization’s upcoming
programs and events, history, arts & culture, hotels, and hidden gems.
•Maintained a consistent and optimal posting schedule and utilized publishing
platform Hootsuite to ensure posting aligned with user behavior.
•Leveraged a strong hashtag strategy to drive engagement with #ThinkPVD.
•Monitored platform optimization and growth with monthly social reports.
RESULTS In 2024, PTC's pages saw significant growth, gaining 6.6K followers, generating
over 800K impressions,605K video views and more than 37.5K engagements
across Instagram and LinkedIn.
PROVIDENCE TOURISM COUNCIL | SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
EVALUATION CRITERIA NO. 4: COST OF SERVICES TO THE COUNTY
56
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APRIL 8, 2025 57
LHG works on a monthly retainer annual contract basis. It does not bill on an allocated “time” basis and, in fact,
no time records are maintained.
All personnel are available as needed to achieve desired results regardless of time considerations. Clients
receive the attention they need, when they need it.
Activity is conducted on the basis of the public relations program developed jointly with the client team and
quantified to the extent possible. This fee is developed from this program.
•Retainer fees are payable monthly in advance
•No expenses incurred on behalf of clients are market up in any way
•Supervision costs are included in fees
•Approved expenses are billed one month in arrears
•Retainer contracts are subject to termination with 90 days’ notice by either party
Lou Hammond Group proposed 12-month fee remains at $132,000 payable monthly in advance at $11,000.
Included in that cost are out of pocket expenses such as telephone, postage, messenger and photocopying.
Additional expenses such as staff/media travel and media events are pre-approved and billed at cost with no
markup. LHG would continue to operate from annual out of pocket expense budget of $25,200 ($2,100 per
month).
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APRIL 8, 2025
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
COST GRAPH & BID SCHEDULE
58
Monthly Service Fee $11,000 $132,000
Monthly Out-of-Pocket Expenses $2,100 $25,200
Annual Total Monthly Service Fees plus Annual Total Monthly Out-of-Pocket Expenses $157,200
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APRIL 8, 2025
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
NO •Time sheets
•Double billing
YES •Financial transparency
•Senior staff involvement
•An extension of your team, emphasizing collaboration
•Debt
•Surprises
HOW WE WORK
59
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
EVALUATION CRITERIA NO. 5: EXPERIENCE AND CAPACITY
OF THE FIRM
60
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
Beginning with three clients and three employees, LHG has grown to become a leader in public
relations with one of the industry’s most premier client rosters. Today, we are a marketing and
communications firm serving nine key industries: destinations, cruise, real estate,
arts/culture/nonprofit, culinary/spirits and technology. We emphasize collaboration in
everything we do and treat our clients as valued partners while working as an extension of their
teams.
We are a firm that believes in transparency in our reporting, billing and overall communications.
Our clients are long-term partners and we enjoy an unmatched reputation with the media. LHG
offers the best of both worlds: a highly creative,results-oriented approach along with a service-
oriented commitment to our clients.
A BRIEF HISTORY
61
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APRIL 8, 2025
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
FOUR DECADES
62
NY | SC | CO | GA | FL | TX
6
OFFICES 45 +
EMPLOYEES
50 +
CLIENTS
OUR GOAL IS TO ALWAYS BE THE BEST.
TO OUTWORK, OUT-THINK AND HAVE THE BEST RELATIONSHIPS OF ANY AGENCY.
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
ABOUT LHG
NATIONAL REACH, REGIONAL APPROACH
With Lou Hammond Group offices in key Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau’s markets, the below team members are available to support the brand at a moment’s notice for
proactive/reactive direct pitching efforts, in-person meetings, press trips and events as necessary.
TAMPA
Brittany Chapman
Mackenzie Comerer
CHARLESTON
Gina Stouffer
Meg Lewis
Kelsey Donnelly
ATLANTA
Ashley Svarney
Jessica Twine
SAVANNAH
Hartley Inge
NEW YORK
Terry Gallagher
Allison Poris
DENVER
Jessica Foreman
Emily Meshell
DALLAS
Sarah Sarver
63
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
LHG’S EXPERTISE
LHG provides a wide range of services to support
your growth and vision. Expertise in the following disciplines.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS
CONTENT CREATION
CRISIS MANAGEMENT
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ENTERTAINMENT/CELEBRITY ENGAGEMENT
EXPERIENTIAL ACTIVATIONS
INFLUENCER MARKETING
MEDIA RELATIONS
PAID MEDIA INTEGRATIONS
PROMOTIONAL PARTNERSHIPS
PUBLIC AFFAIRS
SOCIAL MEDIA
STORY TELLING
THOUGHT LEADERSHIP
64
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS
BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
ABOUT LHG
LHG GLOBAL REACH
YOUR PARTNERS WORLDWIDE
LAUNCHED 2009
Curated community of independent agencies focusing on lifestyle
Understand local cultures, market expertise
Strong media/government relationships
Work on project basis, experience, capable
27 MEMBERS COVERING 50+ COUNTRIES
65
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
ABOUT LHG
GLOBAL PARTNERS
YOUR PARTNERS WORLDWIDE SERVICES
Brand strategy
Community relations
Content creation
Crisis management
Economic development
Entertainment/celebrity engagement
Event planning
Experiential activations
Influencer marketing
Integrated campaigns
Media relations
Paid media integrations
Promotional partnerships
Public affairs
Social media
Story telling
Strategic planning
Thought leadership
66
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APRIL 8, 2025
OUR PARTNERS
67
DESTINATIONS
HOSPITALITY & CRUISE REAL ESTATE & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT LIFESTYLE
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
EVALUATION CRITERIA NO. 6:
SPECIALIZED EXPERTISE OF TEAM MEMBERS
68
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APRIL 8, 2025
TEAM AND LOCATIONSRFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
YOUR CORE LHG TEAM
69
LHG WILL PROVIDE NAPLES,MARCO ISLAND,EVERGLADES
CONVENTION &VISITORS BUREAU WITH AN ENTHUSIASTIC,
EXPERIENCED ACCOUNT TEAM THAT HAS A PROVEN TRACK
RECORD OF DELIVERING RESULTS.
Our agency is proud to employ some of the most talented
professionals in the industry—individuals who not only bring
expertise but also foster a culture of camaraderie,collaboration,and
a healthy dose of friendly competition.
Terry Gallagher,Brittany Chapman and Mackenzie Comerer have led
the account since 2020,consistently delivering award-winning
results for the destination.They are joined by Erin Murphy and
Valentina Vigliarolo,who together bring fresh perspective and
strategic strength.
The team is further supported by Senior Brand Manager,Grace
Ubben,who provides expert consultation on social media strategy,
as well as a broader agency structure led by our office president and
bolstered by a talented in-office staff.This collaborative environment
ensures seamless lead sharing,creative brainstorming,media
outreach,and crisis support when needed—maximizing results and
reinforcing a trusted partnership every step of the way.
BRITTANY CHAPMAN
PRESIDENT, FLORIDA
MACKENZIE COMERER
VICE PRESIDENT, FLORIDA
VALENTINA VIGLIAROLO
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVR, FLORIDA
ERIN MURPHY
ACCOUNT SUPERVISOR, FLORIDA
GRACE UBBEN
SENIOR BRAND MANAGER, FLORIDA
TERRY GALLAGHER
PRESIDENT, NEW YORK
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LOU HAMMOND
FOUNDER/CHAIRMAN
STEPHEN HAMMOND
CEO
CRISTIANA DAZA
VP OF ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE
TYE BURRIS
CONTROLLER
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
LHG CORPORATE
STRUCTURE
70
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
LOU HAMMOND | FOUNDER/CHAIRMAN
Lou began her career in public relations and public affairs with Pan Am.During her 12 years there,she served as Director of Publicity and Promotion and developed
firsthand knowledge of global business and marketing to sophisticated travelers.She also served as the carrier’s lobbyist for the City and State of New York.As the
founder of LHG in 1984,Lou ensures that the firm remains true to core principles –independence,integrity,and the highest standards of excellence.She has
firsthand knowledge of worldwide markets and enjoys long-term relationships with governments,opinion leaders and the media.Recognized for her leadership,
Lou has received numerous prestigious awards and has been cited in Who’s Who in America for the past 20 years.Active in civic affairs,Lou sits on numerous boards
and has a passion for 18th century French decorative arts.Cooking is her joy,and she is ready to play bridge anywhere and in any language!
STEPHEN HAMMOND | CEO
Stephen has guided LHG on a strategic path of growth.Remaining true to the firm’s founding principles,he has expanded the firm beyond its New York
headquarters with regional offices in Charleston,Tampa,Miami,Atlanta,Houston and Denver.For over 25 years Stephen has collaborated closely with clients,to
achieve goals while maximizing budgets.He has diversified the client base,incorporating economic development,real estate,technology,CPG,healthcare,arts,
culture and nonprofits,with a keen focus on the future.Stephen is responsible for financial management and day-to-day operations to ensure the firm remains fiscally
sound and independent.Working closely with staff to maintain a high standard of excellence,his goal is to create an environment that will attract and retain the best
talent in the industry.Prior to joining the family firm (founded by his mother Lou Hammond),Stephen spent eight years with Grupo Televisa S.A.
TEAM AND LOCATIONS
LHG LEADERSHIP
71
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
BRITTANY CHAPMAN | PRESIDENT, FLORIDA
As President of Lou Hammond Group Florida, Brittany Chapman brings over 14 years of experience managing PR and social media for top destinations, resorts, and
lifestyle brands. Her creative approach has driven heightened brand awareness and business growth through strategic publicity and multi-platform solutions. An avid
storyteller and team leader, Brittany excels in identifying multi-platform strategies and providing pivotal digital solutions, leading LHG’s integrated PR and social media
initiatives. Brittany’s industry performance has allowed her to work with clients like Aruba, Visit Park City, Hard Rock Hotels,Omni Hotels & Resorts, Spanx, Party City,
and Rubbermaid. Previously, she led global PR efforts at a Florida-based firm, managing strategic plans and crisis communications. A Florida State University graduate
and Tampa Bay native, Brittany loves boating and fishing in her free time.
Role: Overall Strategy, Account Management, Crisis Communications
Tourism Related Experience: Visit Panama City Beach, Florida’s Paradise Coast (Naples, Marco Island, Everglades), Visit St. Pete/Clearwater, Aruba Tourism Authority,
Experience Columbus, Nassau Paradise Island, Bahamas, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau,
Florida’s Sports Coast, Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitors & Convention Bureau, Visit Mississippi, Visit Baton Rouge, Explore Boone N.C., Hard Rock Hotels All
Inclusive Resorts, Daytona Beach International Airport, Charleston International Airport
TERRY GALLAGHER | PRESIDENT, NEW YORK
With 36 years in the travel industry, Terry has implemented outstanding strategic communications programs for countries, states,cities, hotels, cruise lines and airlines
since joining LHG in 1992. His highly successful media strategy is guided by his training and experience in journalism. This perspective has helped build strong
personal relationships with editors and producers at top outlets. As the agency’s crisis management chair, he is there to provide counsel and assistance to help clients
mitigate difficult situations, then steer recovery and restore the brand’s reputation in the marketplace. Terry’s outstanding achievements in the industry were
recognized in 2018 when he was named the Grice Lifetime Achievement Award winner by HSMAI, the organization’s highest honor.
Role:Strategic and Creative Insight
Tourism Related Experience: Jamaica Tourist Board, Providence Tourism Council, Visit Buffalo Niagara, New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism, Tourism Santa Fe,
Travel South Dakota, Dubai Economy & Tourism, Visit Panama City Beach, Florida’s Paradise Coast (Naples, Marco Island, Everglades), Nassau Paradise Island,
Bahamas, Visit Natchez, New Hampshire Division of Travel & Tourism Development, Visit Norfolk, Sonoma County Tourism, Aruba Tourism Authority, Massachusetts
Office of Travel and Tourism, Empire State Development
TEAM AND LOCATIONS
YOUR NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CVB TEAM
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APRIL 8, 2025
TEAM AND LOCATIONS
YOUR NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CVB TEAM
73
ERIN MURPHY | ACCOUNT SUPERVISOR, FLORIDA
As an Account Supervisor at Lou Hammond Group Tampa, Erin Murphy brings five years of experience in public relations, influencer marketing, community relations
and social media. By prioritizing strategic communications and relationship building, she routinely earns her clients features in print, digital and broadcast outlets and
executes impactful influencer marketing campaigns to support broader business objectives. With a passion for storytelling and a finder on the pulse of pop culture and
industry trends –Erin has a proven track record of success in the lifestyle, hospitality and event sectors of earned and owned media with a specialty in food and
beverage. Prior to Lou Hammond Group, Erin spearheaded the national integrated marketing efforts for Outback Steakhouse as the account lead at its public relations
agency of record. Additionally, Erin managed local media initiatives on behalf of Water Street Tampa, a $4 billion mixed-use development in Florida, and oversaw the
full-service social media management of several luxury apartment complexes across the state. Erin graduated from High Point University in High Point, North Carolina,
where she obtained her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in strategic communications. When she moved from Maine to Florida almost a decade ago, she traded alpine
skiing for year-round boating. In addition to beach days, Erin enjoys reading, hosting friends for Pinterest-inspired get-togethers, and discovering new music and small
businesses.
Role: Account Management, Media Relations, Reporting
Tourism Related Experience: Florida’s Paradise Coast (Naples, Marco Island, Everglades), Experience Columbus, Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, The Junto Hotel, The
Vinoy Resort & Golf Club
MACKENZIE COMERER | VICE PRESIDENT, FLORIDA
As Vice President of Lou Hammond Group Florida, Mackenzie Comerer brings over a decade of experience in public relations for global hotel brands and one of
Florida’s top Destination Marketing Organizations. She previously led PR for Visit St. Pete/Clearwater, managing communications strategy domestically and
internationally. Highlights of her career include launching a destination series on Amazon Prime and executing a Super Bowl LV campaign during COVID-19.
Mackenzie’s travel industry roots fuel her for discovering and promoting unique client stories. A Florida State University graduate and Tampa Bay resident, she enjoys
the area’s weather, outdoor activities, and sunsets at Pass-A-Grille beach.
Role:Strategic and Creative Insight, Account Management, Media Relations
Tourism Related Experience: Visit St. Pete/Clearwater, Florida’s Paradise Coast (Naples, Marco Island, Everglades), Experience Columbus, Palmetto Marriott Resort &
Spa, The Junto Hotel, Hard Rock Hotels All Inclusive Resort, The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club
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VALENTINA VIGLIAROLO | ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE, FLORIDA
As Vice President of Lou Hammond Group Florida, Mackenzie Comerer brings over a decade of experience in public relations for global hotel brands and one of
Florida’s top Destination Marketing Organizations. She previously led PR for Visit St. Pete/Clearwater, managing communications strategy domestically and
internationally. Highlights of her career include launching a destination series on Amazon Prime and executing a Super Bowl LV campaign during COVID-19.
Mackenzie’s travel industry roots fuel her for discovering and promoting unique client stories. A Florida State University graduate and Tampa Bay resident, she enjoys
the area’s weather, outdoor activities, and sunsets at Pass-A-Grille beach.
Role:Strategic and Creative Insight, Account Management, Media Relations
Tourism Related Experience: Visit Panama City Beach, Experience Columbus, Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, Northwest Florida Beaches Airport, The Junto Hotel, The
Vinoy Resort & Golf Club
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025
TEAM AND LOCATIONS
74
YOUR NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CVB TEAM
GRACE UBBEN | SENIOR BRAND MANAGER, FLORIDA
Grace brings over six years of experience in communications strategy, social media management, content creation and social listening for lifestyle, destination and
food and beverage brands. A creative thinker and strategic storyteller, Grace leverages her skills as a communicator to help our clients connect with people through
innovative, engaging and culturally relevant social content. Leading LHG’s #SocialTeam, she manages social media strategies and content across multiple platforms,
oversees the execution of influencer campaigns, and identifies opportunities to optimize for consistent growth. Previously, Grace advised the social media strategy for
Publix Super Markets at a renowned marketing agency. In addition, she spent years specializing in creating content and managing engagement for a range of national
food & beverage brands, including Applegate Natural & Organic Meats, Duncan Hines and Orville. With a keen eye for cultural trends and consumer behavior, Grace is
well versed in identifying shifts in the social media landscape and crafting relevant, actionable opportunities for brands to engage with people on social. Whether
crafting compelling content, optimizing campaigns, or leveraging influencer partnerships, she is committed to making sure LHG’s clients stay ahead of the curve in an
ever-evolving digital landscape. Grace is a Tallahassee native and a proud graduate of the University of Florida (chomp chomp!) now living in sunny St. Pete. When
she’s not scrolling through Instagram or listening to her favorite podcast, she loves visiting the local farmer’s market, going to concerts, finding the best matcha latte in
town and hosting dinner parties for friends and family.
Role: Social Media Strategy, Influencer Relations
Tourism Related Experience: Visit Mississippi, Visit Natchez, See Monterey, Explore Charleston, Charleston International Airport, Nassau & Paradise Island Promotion
Board, Providence Tourism Council, Travel Marquette, Experience Columbus, Lodging Dynamics, Four Seasons Ocean Club Residences (Bahamas), The Territory Golf
& Country Club
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STAFF RESUMES
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BRITTANY CHAPMAN
Lou Hammond Group | May 2021–Present
President, Public Relations & Social Media
Florida State University
Previous work:
Aqua Marketing | Managing Director Public Relations & Social Media |
Apr 2019–May 2021
The Zimmerman Agency | Account Supervisor, Public Relations | Aug
2012–Apr 2019
The Clear Agency | Executive Marketing Coordinator | Apr
2011–Jul 2012
Franklin Street Financial | Marketing Coordinator | Aug
2010–Apr 2011
TERRY GALLAGHER
Lou Hammond Group | May 1992–Present
President, Public Relations
Saint Peter’s University
Previous work:
Peter Martin & Associates | Senior Account Executive|
1990–1992
Canfield Holler & Partners | Account Executive | 1988–1990
Bayonne Community News | Staff | 1987-1988
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STAFF RESUMES
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MACKENZIE COMERER
Lou Hammond Group | Oct 2022–Pres
Vice President, Public Relations
Florida State University
Previous work:
Visit St. Pete Clearwater | Senior Media Relations Manager | May 2017–
Oct 2022
The Zimmerman Agency | Public Relations Account Supervisor | Jan
2012–Apr 2017
Tallahassee Democrat | Community Relations Intern | 2012–
2012
ERIN MURPHY
Lou Hammond Group | Jan 2024–Pres
Account Supervisor, Public Relations
High Point University
Previous work:
Press PR + Marketing | Public Relations Account Manager |
Feb 2022–Dec 2023
Press PR + Marketing | Public Relations Account Coordinator | Dec
2021–Feb 2022
Clearwater Central Catholic High School | Assistant Director of
Alumni Relations | Aug 2020–Dec 2021
Huk | Freelance Marketing Consultant | Feb 2020–
Nov 2021
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STAFF RESUMES
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GRACE UBBEN
Lou Hammond Group | Apr 2022–Pres
Senior Brand Manager, Social Media
University of Florida
Previous work:
22Squared | Communications Strategist | Nov 2020–Apr 2022
Hauswirth/Co | Social Engagement Intern | Sep 2020–Nov 2020
The Agency at UF | Account Supervisor | Jan 2019–May 2020
VALENTINA VIGLIAROLO
Lou Hammond Group | Mar 2024–Pres
Account Executive, Public Relations
Florida State University
Previous work:
Moore | Marketing Communications and Digital Content
Intern | Aug 2023–Dec 2023
FSU College of Communication & Information| Media Intern | May
2023–Dec 2023
Tally and Fin, INC | Social Media Intern | Jan 2023–Apr 2023
Her Campus FSU | Content Editor | Jan 2022–May 2023
Colle McVoy | Social Analytics Intern | Jun 2019–Aug 2019
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PROOF OF PERFORMANCE | COLLIER COVERAGE
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SKILLED PLACEMAKING
We understand that DMOs like Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB are both destination managers and marketers. By boosting awareness of Florida's Paradise Coast as an ideal place to visit, we can also
attract businesses and residents, enhancing the region’s economic health and community management. Our holistic approach recognizes that “everyone is a visitor first.” LHG is eager to champion Collier
County, positioning it at the forefront of its competitive set by showcasing its world-class outdoor adventures, luxurious shopping and dining, vibrant arts and culture, and the natural beauty that makes the
Paradise Coast unlike anywhere else.
FLORIDA EXPERTISE
LHG has a rich history of representing destinations and companies in Florida. We have maintained an office in the state for ten years, serving various travel and lifestyle brands. Our extensive experience
provides unique insights and strategies tailored to Florida’s distinctive tourism landscape. Our regional office staffed by Florida residents ensure a deep local understanding. Every member of your
account team was first a member of your target market—and has since collected countless fond memories of Florida's Paradise Coast!
LHG is proud to serve as the current agency of record for Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau, and we are thrilled to submit this proposal to continue our successful
partnership. Our proven track record, deep understanding of the destination, and unwavering commitment to excellence make us the ideal partner to build on this momentum and take the CVB’s
visibility to even greater heights.
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WHY LHG FOR COLLIER COUNTY
PROVEN INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP AND EXPERTISE
LHG is an award-winning leader in public relations with over 40 years of experience, recognized as a top resource in destination marketing. We currently represent 30+ destinations, including Sante Fe,
NM, the Jamaica Tourist Board, the Kentucky Department of Tourism, Monterey, CA and Charleston, SC. Our deep understanding of destination promotion and track record of long-term client
relationships highlight our ability to deliver impactful results.
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MARKET KNOWLEDGE AND REACH
At LHG, we possess intimate knowledge of Florida's Paradise Coast's key markets. We conduct regular media missions to established and emerging markets such as New York,
Chicago, Tampa-St. Pete, Miami-Fort Lauderdale, Washington, D.C. and Atlanta. This extensive reach allows us to make an immediate and significant impact for Collier County,
ensuring that your destination receives the attention and recognition it deserves.
APRIL 8, 2025
WHY LHG FOR COLLIER COUNTY
UNMATCHED MEDIA RELATIONSHIPS
No other agency in the industry has the media relationships of LHG. We are respected by top names like Jacqui Gifford at Travel + Leisure, Jesse Ashlock at Condé Nast Traveler,
Amy Alipio at National Geographic, and many more. Media seek out LHG first with assignments, leads and story brainstorming because of our creativity,quality of work and
responsiveness, backed by a client roster that is the finest in the business. These positive, longstanding relationships benefit your bottom line and the reputation of Naples, Marco
Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau within the industry and beyond.
Choosing to continue your partnership with Lou Hammond Group means reaffirming a commitment to excellence, collaboration, and results. With a deep understanding of your
goals and a proven track record of success, we are excited by the opportunity to build on the momentum we've created together and drive even greater impact in the future.
RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
COMMITMENT TO QUALITY AND PERSONALIZED SERVICE
At LHG, we are more than an agency—we are a dedicated partner committed to the success of Florida's Paradise Cost. Our firm is large enough to handle major brands, yet small
enough to provide personalized, attentive service that meets the unique needs of your destination. We operate without time sheets or hourly billing, ensuring that all necessary
resources are devoted to achieving your goals. Our fiercely independent approach guarantees that we never run out of time for you. We are personally invested in the success of
Collier County and are motivated to elevate its profile as a premier Florida destination. We look forward to the opportunity to continue delivering innovative strategies, unwavering
dedication, and results that reflect our shared passion for success.
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LHG WORKS ON A MONTHLY RETAINER ANNUAL CONTRACT BASIS.
It does not bill on an allocated “time” basis and, in fact, no time records are
maintained. All personnel are available as needed to achieve desired results
regardless of time considerations. Clients receive the attention they need, when they
need it.
TYE BURRIS
Controller
Demonstrated record of transparency; established history of CPA-certified responsible business practices
Oversee account financial management ongoing, forecasting, monthly reports, budget alignment
Manage procurement process, negotiation, three bids, vet credentials
Documentation of purchases/services per agreement/expectations
Obtain approvals, payments, provide disbursements as contract dictates
Activity is conducted on the basis of a public relations program developed jointly with the client team and
quantified to the extent possible. The fee is developed from this program.
1)Retainer fees are payable monthly in advance.
2)No expenses incurred on behalf of clients are marked up in any way.
3)Supervision costs are included in fees.
4)Approved expenses are billed at cost with no mark up one month in arrears.
CONTROLLER’S SERVICES
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REQUIRED FORMS
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CLIENT REFERENCE #1
EXPLORE CHARLESTON
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CLIENT REFERENCE #1
EXPLORE CHARLESTON
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CASE STUDY
CHALLENGE Change Charleston’s perception from a second-tier tourist destination to a highly sought-
after vacation experience and good place to do business.
ACTION •Launched annual Charleston Wine & Food Festival and Charleston Heritage Federation
to elevate the city’s profile among culinary and arts/culture audiences.
•Advocated Explore Charleston’s tourism management initiatives through public
relations and social media services on behalf of the Charleston Hospitality Association.
Provided crisis communications and recovery support ongoing.
•Arranged relationships with NBC’s “TODAY,” resulting in two on-location segment
series.
RESULTS •Charleston judged #1 Small U.S. City, Condé Nast Traveler; ranked #1 U.S. City, Travel +
Leisure (12 years in a row); won Best U.S. City, AFAR and voted The South’s Best City,
Southern Living. As a result, research links activity to increased airlift from multiple
airlines.
•Results a 50% sustained growth reported in tourism revenue and the establishment
that Charleston is a four-season destination.
EXPLORE CHARLESTON | A 16-YEAR PARTNERSHIP
Average Annual Reach: 996 million+ impressions
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CLIENT REFERENCE #2
JEKYLL ISLAND AUTHORITY
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CASE STUDY
CHALLENGE Solidify Jekyll Island as the go-to destination for travelers seeking a unique experience to
see and learn about sea turtles, while also positioning the island as a premier destination
for conservation and eco-tourism activities.
ACTION •Hosted six journalists for sea turtle experiences, including a CNN broadcast crew.
•Generated national coverage in FOX News, ABC, NPR, USA Today, Southern Living
and more.
•Showcased the destination’s array of offerings through segmented pitching and
creative story angles.
RESULTS •Three CNN broadcast segments highlighting Jekyll Island’s sea turtles and
conservation efforts.
•Secured 3.3 billion+ impressions in just seven months.
JEKYLL ISLAND AUTHORITY | A 1.5-YEAR PARTNERSHIP
Average Annual Reach: 3.6 billion+ impressions
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CLIENT REFERENCE #3
TOURISM SANTA FE
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CASE STUDY
CHALLENGE Expand Santa Fe’s reputation as one of America’s most culturally rich art cities. Drive increased awareness as
well for culinary and outdoor segments to local, regional, and national audiences.
ACTION •Launched PR campaign matching messaging to outlets, underscoring outdoor and culinary strengths of the
city.
•Organized media tours from top feeder markets, including New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago,
Denver, Houston, Dallas, Phoenix; met 30+ outlets annually.
•Coordinated press visits of 50+ key travel writers, Austin-American Statesman, Chicago Tribune, The Dallas
Morning News, Forbes and USA Today; and customized itineraries allowing behind-the-scenes access.
•Co-hosted 10+ journalists annually with Ski Santa Fe, showcasing accessibility to the slopes.
•Partnered with New Mexico Tourism to host the Bachelor; leveraged episode to create secondary coverage
with distinctive hotel packages.
•Launched Santa Fe Margarita Trail, featuring 30 different spots throughout the city.
RESULTS •Dedicated coverage in The Los Angeles Times, USA Today and New York Times; magazines: Condé Nast
Traveler, National Geographic Traveler, AFAR, Robb Report and Travel + Leisure; websites: Huffington Post,
Forbes.com; meeting trades: Successful Meetings and more. Average 250 stories per year. Named
America’s “Number One Culinary Getaway,” Travel + Leisure. Consecutive Top 5 “Best U.S. City” Ranking,
Travel + Leisure. #2 Small City, Condé Nast Traveler. Best Little Cities To Live If You Love Outdoors, Market
Water.
•Santa Fe ranked #2 Favorite City in the U.S. Travel + Leisure 2023 World’s Best and Condé Nast Traveler
2023 Readers Choice Awards
SANTA FE | A 15-YEAR PARTNERSHIP
Average Annual Reach: 1 billion+ impressions
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CLIENT REFERENCE #4
VISIT MISSISSIPPI
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CASE STUDY
CHALLENGE Position Mississippi as an undiscovered southeastern destination offering unmatched
outdoor, historic, culinary and cultural experiences and hospitality that “welcomes all who
wander” in a more inclusive way than previously perceived.
ACTION •Implemented a statewide regional strategy for media relations, matching agency
ambassadors with individual stakeholders to ensure equitable coverage.
•Introduced Mississippi to national and regional media through a series of regional
highlights showcasing the outdoor, civil rights, culinary and cultural attractions, events
and unique lodging found around the state.
•Hosted media and influencers on individual trips to experience multiple destinations
within the state based on road-trip, outdoor adventure and culinary themes.
•Executed media missions in target markets (New York, Chicago, Atlanta) in conjunction
with major events like the Chicago Blues Festival and Atlanta Food and Wine Festival.
•Partnered with Fox News to tout Mississippi as a top domestic drive market along with
a satellite media tour targeting major markets.
RESULTS •Secured coverage in USA Today, Forbes, Thrillist, Southern Living, Travel and Leisure,
Ebony, Atlanta Journal Constitution, Matador Network and Smart Meetings, among
others.
VISIT MISSISSIPPI | A 3-YEAR PARTNERSHIP
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EVALUATION CRITERIA NO. 7: LOCAL VENDOR PREFERENCE
NOT APPLICABLE
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THANK YOU FOR
THE OPPORTUNITY!
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EXPLORE CHARLESTON
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EXPLORE CHARLESTON
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CASE STUDY
CHALLENGE Change Charleston’s perception from a second-tier tourist destination to a highly sought-
after vacation experience and good place to do business.
ACTION •Launched annual Charleston Wine & Food Festival and Charleston Heritage Federation
to elevate the city’s profile among culinary and arts/culture audiences.
•Advocated Explore Charleston’s tourism management initiatives through public
relations and social media services on behalf of the Charleston Hospitality Association.
Provided crisis communications and recovery support ongoing.
•Arranged relationships with NBC’s “TODAY,” resulting in two on-location segment
series.
RESULTS •Charleston judged #1 Small U.S. City, Condé Nast Traveler; ranked #1 U.S. City, Travel +
Leisure (12 years in a row); won Best U.S. City, AFAR and voted The South’s Best City,
Southern Living. As a result, research links activity to increased airlift from multiple
airlines.
•Results a 50% sustained growth reported in tourism revenue and the establishment
that Charleston is a four-season destination.
EXPLORE CHARLESTON | A 16-YEAR PARTNERSHIP
Average Annual Reach: 996 million+ impressions
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JEKYLL ISLAND AUTHORITY
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CASE STUDY
CHALLENGE Solidify Jekyll Island as the go-to destination for travelers seeking a unique experience to
see and learn about sea turtles, while also positioning the island as a premier destination
for conservation and eco-tourism activities.
ACTION •Hosted six journalists for sea turtle experiences, including a CNN broadcast crew.
•Generated national coverage in FOX News, ABC, NPR, USA Today, Southern Living
and more.
•Showcased the destination’s array of offerings through segmented pitching and
creative story angles.
RESULTS •Three CNN broadcast segments highlighting Jekyll Island’s sea turtles and
conservation efforts.
•Secured 3.3 billion+ impressions in just seven months.
JEKYLL ISLAND AUTHORITY | A 1.5-YEAR PARTNERSHIP
Average Annual Reach: 3.6 billion+ impressions
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TOURISM SANTA FE
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CASE STUDY
CHALLENGE Expand Santa Fe’s reputation as one of America’s most culturally rich art cities. Drive increased awareness as
well for culinary and outdoor segments to local, regional, and national audiences.
ACTION •Launched PR campaign matching messaging to outlets, underscoring outdoor and culinary strengths of the
city.
•Organized media tours from top feeder markets, including New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago,
Denver, Houston, Dallas, Phoenix; met 30+ outlets annually.
•Coordinated press visits of 50+ key travel writers, Austin-American Statesman, Chicago Tribune, The Dallas
Morning News, Forbes and USA Today; and customized itineraries allowing behind-the-scenes access.
•Co-hosted 10+ journalists annually with Ski Santa Fe, showcasing accessibility to the slopes.
•Partnered with New Mexico Tourism to host the Bachelor; leveraged episode to create secondary coverage
with distinctive hotel packages.
•Launched Santa Fe Margarita Trail, featuring 30 different spots throughout the city.
RESULTS •Dedicated coverage in The Los Angeles Times, USA Today and New York Times; magazines: Condé Nast
Traveler, National Geographic Traveler, AFAR, Robb Report and Travel + Leisure; websites: Huffington Post,
Forbes.com; meeting trades: Successful Meetings and more. Average 250 stories per year. Named
America’s “Number One Culinary Getaway,” Travel + Leisure. Consecutive Top 5 “Best U.S. City” Ranking,
Travel + Leisure. #2 Small City, Condé Nast Traveler. Best Little Cities To Live If You Love Outdoors, Market
Water.
•Santa Fe ranked #2 Favorite City in the U.S. Travel + Leisure 2023 World’s Best and Condé Nast Traveler
2023 Readers Choice Awards
SANTA FE | A 15-YEAR PARTNERSHIP
Average Annual Reach: 1 billion+ impressions
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VISIT MISSISSIPPI
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CASE STUDY
CHALLENGE Position Mississippi as an undiscovered southeastern destination offering unmatched
outdoor, historic, culinary and cultural experiences and hospitality that “welcomes all who
wander” in a more inclusive way than previously perceived.
ACTION •Implemented a statewide regional strategy for media relations, matching agency
ambassadors with individual stakeholders to ensure equitable coverage.
•Introduced Mississippi to national and regional media through a series of regional
highlights showcasing the outdoor, civil rights, culinary and cultural attractions, events
and unique lodging found around the state.
•Hosted media and influencers on individual trips to experience multiple destinations
within the state based on road-trip, outdoor adventure and culinary themes.
•Executed media missions in target markets (New York, Chicago, Atlanta) in conjunction
with major events like the Chicago Blues Festival and Atlanta Food and Wine Festival.
•Partnered with Fox News to tout Mississippi as a top domestic drive market along with
a satellite media tour targeting major markets.
RESULTS •Secured coverage in USA Today, Forbes, Thrillist, Southern Living, Travel and Leisure,
Ebony, Atlanta Journal Constitution, Matador Network and Smart Meetings, among
others.
VISIT MISSISSIPPI | A 3-YEAR PARTNERSHIP
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THE E-VERIFY
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
FOR EMPLOYERS USING A WEB SERVICES E-VERIFY EMPLOYER AGENT
ARTICLE I PURPOSE AND AUTHORITY
The parties to this agreement are the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the
(Employer), and the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent. The purpose of this agreement is to set forth terms and conditions which the Employer and the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent will follow while participating in E-Verify.
E-Verify is a program that electronically confirms an employee’s eligibility to work in the United States after completion of Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9). This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) explains certain features of the E-Verify program and describes specific responsibilities of the Employer, the E-Verify Employer Agent, the Social Security Administration (SSA), and DHS.
References in this MOU to the Employer include the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent when acting on behalf of the Employer.
For purposes of this MOU, the E-Verify browser refers to the website that provides direct access to the E-Verify system: https://E-Verify.uscis.gov/emp/. You may access E-Verify directly free of charge via the E-Verify
browser.
Authority for the E-Verify program is found in Title IV, Subtitle A, of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 (IIRIRA), Pub. L. 104-208, 110 Stat. 3009, as amended (8 U.S.C. § 1324a note). The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 22.18, “Employment Eligibility Verification” and Executive Order 12989, as amended, provide authority for Federal contractors and subcontractors (Federal contractor) to use E-Verify to verify the employment eligibility of certain employees working on Federal
contracts.
ARTICLE II
RESPONSIBILITIES
A.RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE EMPLOYER
For purposes of this MOU, references to the Employer include the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent when
acting on behalf of the Employer.
1.By enrolling in E-Verify and signing the applicable MOU, the Employer asserts that it is a legitimate company
which intends to use E-Verify for legitimate purposes only and in accordance with the laws, regulations and
DHS policies and procedures relating to the use of E-Verify.
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2. The Employer agrees to display the following notices supplied by DHS (though the Web Services E-Verify
Employer Agent) in a prominent place that is clearly visible to prospective employees and all employees who
are to be verified through the system:
a.Notice of E-Verify Participation
b.Notice of Right to Work
3. The Employer agrees to provide to the SSA and DHS the names, titles, addresses, and telephone numbers
of the Employer representatives to be contacted about E-Verify. The Employer also agrees to keep such
information current by providing updated information to SSA and DHS whenever the representatives’ contact
information changes.
4.The Employer agrees to become familiar with and comply with the most recent version of the
E-Verify User Manual. The Employer will obtain the E-Verify User Manual from the Web Services E-Verify
Employer Agent, and will be notified by the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent when a new version of
the E-Verify User Manual becomes available.
5. The Employer agrees to comply with current Form I-9 procedures, with two exceptions:
a.If an employee presents a "List B" identity document, the Employer agrees to only accept "List B"
documents that contain a photo. (List B documents identified in 8 C.F.R. 274a.2(b)(1)(B)) can be presented
during the Form I-9 process to establish identity.) If an employee objects to the photo requirement for
religious reasons, the Employer should contact E-Verify at 888-464-4218.
b. If an employee presents a DHS Form I-551 (Permanent Resident Card), Form I-766
(Employment Authorization Document), or U.S. Passport or Passport Card to complete
Form I-9, the Employer agrees to make a photocopy of the document and to retain the photocopy with the
employee’s Form I-9. The Employer will use the photocopy to verify the photo and to assist DHS with its
review of photo mismatches that employees contest. DHS may in the future designate other documents
that activate the photo screening tool.
Note: Subject only to the exceptions noted previously in this paragraph, employees still retain the right to
present any List A, or List B and List C, document(s) to complete the Form I-9.
6. The Employer agrees to record the case verification number on the employee's Form I-9 or to print the
screen containing the case verification number and attach it to the employee's Form I-9.
7.The Employer agrees that, although it participates in E-Verify, the Employer has a responsibility to
complete, retain, and make available for inspection Forms I-9 that relate to its employees, or from other
requirements of applicable regulations or laws, including the obligation to comply with the antidiscrimination
requirements of section 274B of the INA with respect to Form I-9 procedures.
a. The following modified requirements are the only exceptions to an Employer’s obligation to not
employ unauthorized workers and comply with the anti-discrimination provision of the INA: (1) List B
identity documents must have photos, as described in paragraph 6 above; (2) When an Employer confirms
the identity and employment eligibility of newly hired employee using E-Verify procedures, the Employer
establishes a rebuttable presumption that it has not violated section 274A(a)(1)(A) of
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the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) with respect to the hiring of that employee; (3) If the Employer
receives a final nonconfirmation for an employee, but continues to employ that person, the Employer
must notify DHS and the Employer is subject to a civil money penalty between $550 and $1,100 for each
failure to notify DHS of continued employment following a final nonconfirmation; (4) If the Employer
continues to employ an employee after receiving a final nonconfirmation, then the Employer is subject to
a rebuttable presumption that it has knowingly employed an unauthorized alien in violation of section
274A(a)(1)(A); and (5) no E-Verify participant is civilly or criminally liable under any law for any action taken
in good faith based on information provided through the E-Verify.
b.DHS reserves the right to conduct Form I-9 compliance inspections, as well as any other enforcement
or compliance activity authorized by law, including site visits, to ensure proper use of E-Verify.
8.The Employer is strictly prohibited from creating an E-Verify case before the employee has been hired,
meaning that a firm offer of employment was extended and accepted and Form I-9 was completed. The
Employer agrees to create an E-Verify case for new employees within three Employer business days after each
employee has been hired (after both Sections 1 and 2 of Form I-9 have been completed), and to complete as
many steps of the E-Verify process as are necessary according to the E-Verify User Manual. If E-Verify is
temporarily unavailable, the three-day time period will be extended until it is again operational in order to
accommodate the Employer's attempting, in good faith, to make inquiries during the period of unavailability.
9. The Employer agrees not to use E-Verify for pre-employment screening of job applicants, in support of any
unlawful employment practice, or for any other use that this MOU or the E-Verify User Manual does not
authorize.
10. The Employer must use E-Verify (through its Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent) for all new employees.
The Employer will not verify selectively and will not verify employees hired before the effective date of this
MOU. Employers who are Federal contractors may qualify for exceptions to this requirement as described in
Article II.B of this MOU.
11. The Employer agrees to follow appropriate procedures (see Article III below) regarding tentative
nonconfirmations. The Employer must promptly notify employees in private of the finding and provide them
with the notice and letter containing information specific to the employee’s E-Verify case. The Employer
agrees to provide both the English and the translated notice and letter for employees with limited English
proficiency to employees. The Employer agrees to provide written referral instructions to employees and
instruct affected employees to bring the English copy of the letter to the SSA. The Employer must allow
employees to contest the finding, and not take adverse action against employees if they choose to contest the
finding, while their case is still pending. Further, when employees contest a tentative nonconfirmation based
upon a photo mismatch, the Employer must take additional steps
(see Article III.B below) to contact DHS with information necessary to resolve the challenge.
12. The Employer agrees not to take any adverse action against an employee based upon the employee's
perceived employment eligibility status while SSA or DHS is processing the verification request unless the
Employer obtains knowledge (as defined in 8 C.F.R. § 274a.1(l)) that the employee is not work authorized. The
Employer understands that an initial inability of the SSA or DHS automated
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verification system to verify work authorization, a tentative nonconfirmation, a case in continuance
(indicating the need for additional time for the government to resolve a case), or the finding of a photo
mismatch, does not establish, and should not be interpreted as, evidence that the employee is not work
authorized. In any of such cases, the employee must be provided a full and fair opportunity to contest the
finding, and if he or she does so, the employee may not be terminated or suffer any adverse employment
consequences based upon the employee’s perceived employment eligibility status
(including denying, reducing, or extending work hours, delaying or preventing training, requiring an employee
to work in poorer conditions, withholding pay, refusing to assign the employee to a Federal contract or other
assignment, or otherwise assuming that he or she is unauthorized to work) until and unless secondary
verification by SSA or DHS has been completed and a final nonconfirmation has been issued. If the employee
does not choose to contest a tentative nonconfirmation or a photo mismatch or if a secondary verification is
completed and a final nonconfirmation is issued, then the Employer can find the employee is not work
authorized and terminate the employee’s employment. Employers or employees with questions about a final
nonconfirmation may call E-Verify at 1-888-464-4218 (customer service) or 1-888-897-7781 (worker hotline).
13.The Employer agrees to comply with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and section 274B of the INA
as applicable by not discriminating unlawfully against any individual in hiring, firing, employment eligibility
verification, or recruitment or referral practices because of his or her national origin or citizenship status, or
by committing discriminatory documentary practices. The Employer understands that such illegal practices
can include selective verification or use of E-Verify except as provided in part D below, or discharging or
refusing to hire employees because they appear or sound “foreign” or have received tentative
nonconfirmations. The Employer further understands that any violation of the immigration-related unfair
employment practices provisions in section 274B of the INA could subject the Employer to civil penalties,
back pay awards, and other sanctions, and violations of Title VII could subject the Employer to back pay
awards, compensatory and punitive damages. Violations of either section 274B of the INA or Title VII may
also lead to the termination of its participation in E-Verify. If the Employer has any questions relating to the
anti-discrimination provision, it should contact OSC at 1-800-255-8155 or 1-800-237-2515 (TDD).
14.The Employer agrees that it will use the information it receives from E-Verify (through its Web Services
E-Verify Employer Agent) only to confirm the employment eligibility of employees as authorized by this
MOU. The Employer agrees that it will safeguard this information, and means of access to it (such as
Personal Identification Numbers and passwords), to ensure that it is not used for any other purpose and as
necessary to protect its confidentiality, including ensuring that it is not disseminated to any person other
than employees of the Employer who are authorized to perform the Employer's responsibilities under this
MOU, except for such dissemination as may be authorized in advance by SSA or DHS for legitimate
purposes.
15.The Employer agrees to notify DHS immediately in the event of a breach of personal information.
Breaches are defined as loss of control or unauthorized access to E-Verify personal data. All suspected or
confirmed breaches should be reported by calling 1-888-464-4218 or via email at E-Verify@uscis.dhs.gov.
Please use “Privacy Incident – Password” in the subject line of your email when sending a breach report to
E-Verify.
16.The Employer acknowledges that the information it receives from SSA through its Web Services
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E-Verify Employer Agent is governed by the Privacy Act (5 U.S.C. § 552a(i)(1) and (3)) and the Social Security
Act (42 U.S.C. 1306(a)). Any person who obtains this information under false pretenses or uses it for any
purpose other than as provided for in this MOU may be subject to criminal penalties.
17.The Employer agrees to cooperate with DHS and SSA in their compliance monitoring and evaluation
of E-Verify, which includes permitting DHS, SSA, their contractors and other agents, upon reasonable
notice, to review Forms I-9 and other employment records and to interview it and its employees regarding
the Employer’s use of E-Verify, and to respond in a prompt and accurate manner to DHS requests for
information relating to their participation in E-Verify.
18.The Employer shall not make any false or unauthorized claims or references about its participation in
E-Verify on its website, in advertising materials, or other media. The Employer shall not describe its
services as federally-approved, federally-certified, or federally-recognized, or use language with a similar
intent on its website or other materials provided to the public. Entering into this MOU does not mean that
E-Verify endorses or authorizes your E-Verify services and any claim to that effect is false.
19.The Employer shall not state in its website or other public documents that any language used therein
has been provided or approved by DHS, USCIS or the Verification Division, without first obtaining the prior
written consent of DHS.
20.The Employer agrees that E-Verify trademarks and logos may be used only under license by DHS/
USCIS (see M-795 (Web)) and, other than pursuant to the specific terms of such license, may not be used in
any manner that might imply that the Employer’s services, products, websites, or publications are
sponsored by, endorsed by, licensed by, or affiliated with DHS, USCIS, or E-Verify.
21.The Employer understands that if it uses E-Verify procedures for any purpose other than as authorized
by this MOU, the Employer may be subject to appropriate legal action and termination of its participation
in E-Verify according to this MOU.
B.RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE WEB SERVICES E-VERIFY EMPLOYER AGENT
1.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to complete its Web Services interface no later than six
months after the date the Web Services User signs this MOU. E-Verify considers your interface to be complete
once it has been built pursuant to the Interface Control Agreement (ICA), submitted to E-Verify for testing,
and approved for system access.
2.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to perform sufficient maintenance on the Web Services
interface in accordance with the requirements listed in the ICA. These requirements include, but are not
limited to, updating the Web Services interface to ensure that any updates or enhancements are
incorporated no later than six months after the issuance of an ICA. Web Services E-Verify Employer Agents
should be aware that this will require the investment of time and resources. Compliance with the requirements
of the ICA must be carried out to the satisfaction of DHS and or its assignees.
3.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to provide to SSA and/or DHS the names, titles, addresses,
e-mail addresses, and telephone numbers of the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent representative who will
access information, as well as ensure cooperation, communication, and coordination with E-Verify.
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In addition, Web Services E-Verify Employer Agents must provide to SSA and/or DHS the names, titles,
addresses, and telephone numbers of its clients and their staff who will access information through E-
Verify. Web Services E-Verify Employer Agents must ensure the contact information is updated with SSA and
DHS whenever the points of contact change.
4.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to become familiar with and comply with the E-Verify User
Manual and provide a copy of the most current version of the manual to the Employer so that the Employer can
become familiar with and comply with E-Verify policy and procedures. The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent
agrees to obtain a revised E-Verify User Manual as it becomes available and to provide a copy of the revised
version to the Employer no later than 30 days after the manual becomes available.
5.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees that any person accessing E-Verify on its behalf is trained on
the most recent E-Verify policy and procedures.
6.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees that any of its representatives who will perform
employment verification cases will complete the E-Verify Tutorial before that individual initiates any cases.
a.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees that all of its representatives will take the refresher
tutorials initiated by E-Verify as a condition of continued use of E-Verify, including any tutorials for Federal
contractors, if any of the Employers represented by the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent is a Federal
contractor.
b.Failure to complete a refresher tutorial will prevent the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent and
Employer from continued use of E-Verify.
7.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to grant E-Verify access only to current employees who need
E-Verify access. The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent must promptly terminate an employee’s E-Verify
access if the employee is separated from the company or no longer needs access to E-Verify.
8.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to obtain the necessary equipment to use E- Verify as
required by the E-Verify rules and regulations as modified from time to time.
9.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to, consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and
policies, commit sufficient personnel and resources to meet the requirements of this MOU.
10.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to provide its clients with training on E-Verify processes,
policies, and procedures. The E-Verify Employer Agent also agrees to provide its clients with ongoing E-Verify
training as needed. E-Verify is not responsible for providing training to clients of E-Verify Employer Agents.
11.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to provide the Employer with the notices described in
Article II.B.2 below.
12.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to create E-Verify cases for the Employer it represents
in accordance with the E-Verify Manual, the E-Verify Web-Based Tutorial and all other published E-Verify
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rules and procedures. The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent will create E-Verify cases using information
provided by the Employer and will immediately communicate the response back to the Employer. If E-Verify
is temporarily unavailable, the three-day time period will be extended until it is again operational in order to
accommodate the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent’s attempting, in good faith, to make inquiries on
behalf of the Employer during the period of unavailability. If, however, the Web Services interface is
unavailable due to no fault of E-Verify, then the three-day time period is not extended. In such a case, the Web
Services E-Verify Employer Agent must use the E-Verify browser during the outage.
13.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to ensure that all notices, referral letters and any
other materials otherwise including instructions regarding tentative nonconfirmations, will be consistent
with the most current E-Verify tentative nonconfirmation notices and referral letters, which are available
on E-Verify’s website.
14.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees that any system or interface it develops will follow
the steps for creating E-Verify cases and processing tentative nonconfirmations, as laid out in the ICA, this
MOU and the User Manual, including but not limited to allowing an employer to close an invalid case
where appropriate, allowing an employer to refer a tentative nonconfirmation only when an employee
chooses to contest a tentative nonconfirmation (no automatic referrals), and referring a tentative
nonconfirmation to the appropriate agency at the time the employer prints the referral letter and
provides the letter to the employee. The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent understands that any
failure to make its system or interface consistent with proper E-Verify procedures can result in DHS
terminating the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent’s agreement and access with or without notice.
15.When the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent receives notice from a client company that it has
received a contract with the FAR clause, then the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent must update the
company’s E-Verify profile within 30 days of the contract award date.
16.If data is transmitted between the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent and its client, then the Web
Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to protect personally identifiable information during
transmission to and from the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent.
17.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to notify DHS immediately in the event of a breach
of personal information. Breaches are defined as loss of control or unauthorized access to E-Verify
personal data. All suspected or confirmed breaches should be reported by calling 1-888-464-4218 or via
email at E-Verify@uscis.dhs.gov. Please use “Privacy Incident – Password” in the subject line of your
email when sending a breach report to E-Verify.
18.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to fully cooperate with DHS and SSA in their
compliance monitoring and evaluation of E-Verify, including permitting DHS, SSA, their contractors and
other agents, upon reasonable notice, to review Forms I-9, employment records, and all records
pertaining to the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent’s use of E-Verify, and to interview it and its
employees regarding the use of E-Verify, and to respond in a timely and accurate manner to DHS
requests for information relating to their participation in E-Verify.
a.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to cooperate with DHS if DHS requests
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information about the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent’s interface, including requests by DHS to view
the actual interface operated by the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent as well as related business
documents. The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to demonstrate for DHS the functionality of
its interface to E-Verify upon request.
b.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to demonstrate, if requested by DHS, that it has
provided training to its clients that meets E-Verify standards. Training programs must provide a focused
study of the topics covered in the E-Verify User Manual and pertinent Supplemental Guides. Furthermore,
training programs and materials must be updated as E-Verify changes occur. The Web Services E-Verify
Employer Agent is encouraged to incorporate information from existing E-Verify materials, including the
Enrollment Quick Reference Guide, the E-Verify Employer Agent Client Handbook (formerly known as the
Designated Agent Client Handbook), and existing tutorials and manuals into their training program. E-Verify
also encourages the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent to supervise first-time use of the E-Verify browser
or Web Services interface by its staff and Employer clients as part of any training program. The Web
Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to submit its training program materials to DHS for review upon
request.
Failure to provide adequate training could, in some instances, lead to penalties as described in Article V.F.1.
of this MOU.
19.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent shall not make any false or unauthorized claims or references
about its participation in E-Verify on its website, in advertising materials, or other media. The Web Services
E-Verify Employer Agent shall not describe its services as federally-approved, federally-certified, or federally-
recognized, or use language with a similar intent on its website or other materials provided to the public.
Entering into this MOU does not mean that E-Verify endorses or authorizes your Web Services E-Verify
Employer Agent services and any claim to that effect is false.
20.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent shall not state in its website or other public documents that
any language used therein has been provided or approved by DHS, USCIS or the Verification Division,
without first obtaining the prior written consent of DHS.
21.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees that E-Verify trademarks and logos may be used only
under license by DHS/USCIS (see M-795 (Web)) and, other than pursuant to the specific terms of such
license, may not be used in any manner that might imply that the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent’s
services, products, websites, or publications are sponsored by, endorsed by, licensed by, or affiliated with
DHS, USCIS, or E-Verify.
22.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent understands that if it uses E-Verify procedures for any
purpose other than as authorized by this MOU, the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent may be subject to
appropriate legal action and termination of its participation in E-Verify according to this MOU.
C.RESPONSIBILITIES OF FEDERAL CONTRACTORS
The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent shall ensure that the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent and the
Employers it represents carry out the following responsibilities if the Employer is a Federal contractor or
becomes a federal contractor. The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent should instruct the client to keep the
Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent informed about any changes or updates related to federal contracts. It
is the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent’s responsibility to ensure that its clients are in compliance
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Company ID Number: Client Company ID Number:
with all E-Verify policies and procedures.
1.If the Employer is a Federal contractor with the FAR E-Verify clause subject to the employment verification
terms in Subpart 22.18 of the FAR, it will become familiar with and comply with the most current version of the
E-Verify User Manual for Federal Contractors as well as the E-Verify Supplemental Guide for Federal
Contractors.
2.In addition to the responsibilities of every employer outlined in this MOU, the Employer understands that if
it is a Federal contractor subject to the employment verification terms in Subpart 22.18 of the FAR it must
verify the employment eligibility of any “employee assigned to the contract” (as defined in FAR 22.1801). Once
an employee has been verified through E-Verify by the Employer, the Employer may not reverify the employee
through E-Verify.
a.An Employer that is not enrolled in E-Verify as a Federal contractor at the time of a contract award
must enroll as a Federal contractor in the E-Verify program within 30 calendar days of contract award and,
within 90 days of enrollment, begin to verify employment eligibility of new hires using E-Verify. The
Employer must verify those employees who are working in the United States, whether or not they are
assigned to the contract. Once the Employer begins verifying new hires, such verification of new hires must
be initiated within three business days after the hire date. Once enrolled in E-Verify as a Federal contractor,
the Employer must begin verification of employees assigned to the contract within 90 calendar days after
the date of enrollment or within 30 days of an employee’s assignment to the contract, whichever date is
later.
b.Employers enrolled in E-Verify as a Federal contractor for 90 days or more at the time of a contract
award must use E-Verify to begin verification of employment eligibility for new hires of the Employer who
are working in the United States, whether or not assigned to the contract, within three business days after
the date of hire. If the Employer is enrolled in E-Verify as a Federal contractor for 90 calendar days or less at
the time of contract award, the Employer must, within 90 days of enrollment, begin to use E-Verify to
initiate verification of new hires of the contractor who are working in the United States, whether or not
assigned to the contract. Such verification of new hires must be initiated within three business days after
the date of hire. An Employer enrolled as a Federal contractor in E-Verify must begin verification of each
employee assigned to the contract within 90 calendar days after date of contract award or within 30 days
after assignment to the contract, whichever is later.
c.Federal contractors that are institutions of higher education (as defined at 20 U.S.C. 1001(a)), state or
local governments, governments of Federally recognized Indian tribes, or sureties performing under a
takeover agreement entered into with a Federal agency under a performance bond may choose to only
verify new and existing employees assigned to the Federal contract. Such Federal contractors may,
however, elect to verify all new hires, and/or all existing employees hired after November 6, 1986.
Employers in this category must begin verification of employees assigned to the contract within 90
calendar days after the date of enrollment or within 30 days of an employee’s assignment to the contract,
whichever date is later.
d.Upon enrollment, Employers who are Federal contractors may elect to verify employment eligibility of
all existing employees working in the United States who were hired after November 6, 1986, instead of
verifying only those employees assigned to a covered Federal contract. After enrollment, Employers must
elect to verify existing staff following DHS procedures and begin E-Verify verification of all
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Company ID Number: Client Company ID Number:
existing employees within 180 days after the election.
e.The Employer may use a previously completed Form I-9 as the basis for creating an E-Verify case for
an employee assigned to a contract as long as:
i.That Form I-9 is complete (including the SSN) and complies with Article II.A.6,
ii.The employee’s work authorization has not expired, and
iii.The Employer has reviewed the information reflected in the Form I-9 either in person or in
communications with the employee to ensure that the employee’s Section 1, Form I-9
attestation has not changed (including, but not limited to, a lawful permanent resident alien
having become a naturalized U.S. citizen).
f.The Employer shall complete a new Form I-9 consistent with Article II.A.6 or update the previous
Form I-9 to provide the necessary information if:
i.The Employer cannot determine that Form I-9 complies with Article II.A.6,
ii.The employee’s basis for work authorization as attested in Section 1 has expired or changed,
or
iii.The Form I-9 contains no SSN or is otherwise incomplete.
Note: If Section 1 of Form I-9 is otherwise valid and up-to-date and the form otherwise complies with
Article II.C.5, but reflects documentation (such as a U.S. passport or Form I-551) that expired after
completing Form I-9, the Employer shall not require the production of additional documentation, or use
the photo screening tool described in Article II.A.5, subject to any additional or superseding instructions
that may be provided on this subject in the E-Verify User Manual.
g.The Employer agrees not to require a second verification using E-Verify of any assigned employee
who has previously been verified as a newly hired employee under this MOU or to authorize verification
of any existing employee by any Employer that is not a Federal contractor based on this Article.
3. The Employer understands that if it is a Federal contractor, its compliance with this MOU is a
performance requirement under the terms of the Federal contract or subcontract, and the Employer
consents to the release of information relating to compliance with its verification responsibilities under this
MOU to contracting officers or other officials authorized to review the Employer’s compliance with Federal
contracting requirements.
D. RESPONSIBILITIES OF SSA
1.SSA agrees to allow DHS to compare data provided by the Employer (through the E-Verify Employer
Agent) against SSA’s database. SSA sends DHS confirmation that the data sent either matches or does not
match the information in SSA’s database.
2.SSA agrees to safeguard the information the Employer provides (through the E-Verify Employer Agent)
through E-Verify procedures. SSA also agrees to limit access to such information, as is appropriate by law, to
individuals responsible for the verification of Social Security numbers or responsible for evaluation of E-Verify
or such other persons or entities who may be authorized by SSA as governed by the Privacy Act (5 U.S.C. §
552a), the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1306(a)), and SSA regulations (20 CFR Part 401).
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3.SSA agrees to provide case results from its database within three Federal Government work days of the
initial inquiry. E-Verify provides the information to the E-Verify Employer Agent.
4.SSA agrees to update SSA records as necessary if the employee who contests the SSA tentative
nonconfirmation visits an SSA field office and provides the required evidence. If the employee visits an SSA
field office within the eight Federal Government work days from the date of referral to SSA, SSA agrees to
update SSA records, if appropriate, within the eight-day period unless SSA determines that more than eight
days may be necessary. In such cases, SSA will provide additional instructions to the employee. If the
employee does not visit SSA in the time allowed, E-Verify may provide a final nonconfirmation to the E-Verify
Employer Agent.
Note: If an Employer experiences technical problems, or has a policy question, the employer should
contact E-Verify at 1-888-464-4218.
E. RESPONSIBILITIES OF DHS
1.DHS agrees to provide the Employer with selected data from DHS databases to enable the Employer
(through the E-Verify Employer Agent) to conduct, to the extent authorized by this MOU:
a.Automated verification checks on alien employees by electronic means, and
b.Photo verification checks (when available) on employees.
2.DHS agrees to assist the E-Verify Employer Agent with operational problems associated with its
participation in E-Verify. DHS agrees to provide the E-Verify Employer Agent names, titles, addresses, and
telephone numbers of DHS representatives to be contacted during the E-Verify process.
3.DHS agrees to provide to the E-Verify Employer Agent with access to E-Verify training materials as well as
an E-Verify User Manual that contain instructions on E-Verify policies, procedures, and requirements for both
SSA and DHS, including restrictions on the use of E-Verify.
4.DHS agrees to train E-Verify Employer Agents on all important changes made to E-Verify through the use of
mandatory refresher tutorials and updates to the E-Verify User Manual. Even without changes to E-Verify, DHS
reserves the right to require E-Verify Employer Agents to take mandatory refresher tutorials.
5.DHS agrees to provide to the Employer (through the E-Verify Employer Agent) a notice, which indicates the
Employer's participation in E-Verify. DHS also agrees to provide to the Employer anti-discrimination notices
issued by the Office of Special Counsel for Immigration-Related Unfair Employment Practices (OSC), Civil
Rights Division, U.S. Department of Justice.
6.DHS agrees to issue each of the E-Verify Employer Agent’s E-Verify users a unique user identification
number and password that permits them to log in to E-Verify.
7.DHS agrees to safeguard the information the Employer provides (through the E-Verify Employer Agent),
and to limit access to such information to individuals responsible for the verification process, for evaluation of
E-Verify, or to such other persons or entities as may be authorized by applicable law. Information will be used
only to verify the accuracy of Social Security numbers and employment eligibility, to enforce the INA and
Federal criminal laws, and to administer Federal contracting requirements.
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8.DHS agrees to provide a means of automated verification that provides (in conjunction with SSA
verification procedures) confirmation or tentative nonconfirmation of employees' employment eligibility
within three Federal Government work days of the initial inquiry.
9.DHS agrees to provide a means of secondary verification (including updating DHS records) for employees
who contest DHS tentative nonconfirmations and photo mismatch tentative nonconfirmations. This
provides final confirmation or nonconfirmation of the employees' employment eligibility within 10 Federal
Government work days of the date of referral to DHS, unless DHS determines that more than 10 days may be
necessary. In such cases, DHS will provide additional verification instructions.
ARTICLE III
REFERRAL OF INDIVIDUALS TO SSA AND DHS
A. REFERRAL TO SSA
1.If the Employer receives a tentative nonconfirmation issued by SSA, the Employer must print the notice as
directed by E-Verify. The Employer must promptly notify employees in private of the finding and provide them
with the notice and letter containing information specific to the employee’s E-Verify case. The Employer also
agrees to provide both the English and the translated notice and letter for employees with limited English
proficiency to employees. The Employer agrees to provide written referral instructions to employees and
instruct affected employees to bring the English copy of the letter to the SSA. The Employer must allow
employees to contest the finding, and not take adverse action against employees if they choose to contest the
finding, while their case is still pending.
2.The Employer agrees to obtain the employee’s response about whether he or she will contest the tentative
nonconfirmation as soon as possible after the Employer receives the tentative nonconfirmation. Only the
employee may determine whether he or she will contest the tentative nonconfirmation.
3.After a tentative nonconfirmation, the Employer will refer employees to SSA field offices only as directed by
E-Verify. The Employer must record the case verification number, review the employee information submitted
to E-Verify to identify any errors, and find out whether the employee contests the tentative nonconfirmation.
The Employer will transmit the Social Security number, or any other corrected employee information that SSA
requests, to SSA for verification again if this review indicates a need to do so.
4.The Employer will instruct the employee to visit an SSA office within eight Federal Government work days.
SSA will electronically transmit the result of the referral to the Employer within 10 Federal Government work
days of the referral unless it determines that more than 10 days is necessary.
5.While waiting for case results, the Employer agrees to check the E-Verify system regularly for case updates.
6.The Employer agrees not to ask the employee to obtain a printout from the Social Security Administration
number database (the Numident) or other written verification of the SSN from the SSA.
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B. REFERRAL TO DHS
1.If the Employer receives a tentative nonconfirmation issued by DHS, the Employer must promptly notify
employees in private of the finding and provide them with the notice and letter containing information
specific to the employee’s E-Verify case. The Employer also agrees to provide both the English and the
translated notice and letter for employees with limited English proficiency to employees. The Employer must
allow employees to contest the finding, and not take adverse action against employees if they choose to
contest the finding, while their case is still pending.
2.The Employer agrees to obtain the employee’s response about whether he or she will contest the tentative
nonconfirmation as soon as possible after the Employer receives the tentative nonconfirmation. Only the
employee may determine whether he or she will contest the tentative nonconfirmation.
3.The Employer agrees to refer individuals to DHS only when the employee chooses to contest a tentative
nonconfirmation.
4.If the employee contests a tentative nonconfirmation issued by DHS, the Employer will instruct the
employee to contact DHS through its toll-free hotline (as found on the referral letter) within eight Federal
Government work days.
5.If the Employer finds a photo mismatch, the Employer must provide the photo mismatch tentative
nonconfirmation notice and follow the instructions outlined in paragraph 1 of this section for tentative
nonconfirmations, generally.
6.The Employer agrees that if an employee contests a tentative nonconfirmation based upon a photo
mismatch, the Employer will send a copy of the employee’s Form I-551, Form I-766, U.S. Passport, or passport
card to DHS for review by:
a. Scanning and uploading the document, or
b. Sending a photocopy of the document by express mail (furnished and paid for by the employer).
7.The Employer understands that if it cannot determine whether there is a photo match/mismatch, the
Employer must forward the employee’s documentation to DHS as described in the preceding paragraph. The
Employer agrees to resolve the case as specified by the DHS representative who will determine the photo
match or mismatch.
8.DHS will electronically transmit the result of the referral to the Employer within 10 Federal Government
work days of the referral unless it determines that more than 10 days is necessary.
9.While waiting for case results, the Employer agrees to check the E-Verify system regularly for case updates.
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Company ID Number: Client Company ID Number:
ARTICLE IV
SERVICE PROVISIONS
A. NO SERVICE FEES
1. SSA and DHS will not charge the Employer or the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent for verification
services performed under this MOU. The Employer is responsible for providing equipment needed to make
inquiries. To access E-Verify, an Employer will need a personal computer with Internet access.
ARTICLE V
SYSTEM SECURITY AND MAINTENANCE
A. DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS
1.Software developed by Web Services E-Verify Employer Agents must comply with federally-mandated
information security policies and industry security standards to include but not limited to:
a. Public Law 107-347, “E-Government Act of 2002, Title III, Federal Information Security Management
Act (FISMA),” December 2002.
b. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Memorandum (M-10-15), “FY 2010 Reporting Instructions
for the Federal Information Security Management Act and Agency Privacy Management,” April 2010.
c. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication (SP) and Federal
Information Processing Standards Publication (FIPS).
d. International Organization for Standardization/International Electrotechnical Commission
(ISO/IEC) 27002, Information Technology — Security Techniques — Code of Practice for Information
Security Management.
2.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to update its Web Services interface to reflect system
enhancements within six months from the date DHS notifies the Web Services User of the system update. The
Web Services User will receive notice from DHS in the form of an Interface Control Agreement (ICA). The Web
Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to institute changes to its interface as identified in the ICA, including
all functionality identified and all data elements detailed therein.
3.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to demonstrate progress of its efforts to update its Web
Services interface if and when DHS requests such progress reports.
4.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent acknowledges that if its system enhancements are not
completed to the satisfaction of DHS or its assignees within six months from the date DHS notifies the Web
Services User of the system update, then the Web Services User’s E-Verify account may be suspended, and
support for previous releases of E-Verify may no longer be available to the Web Services User. The Web
Services E-Verify Employer Agent also acknowledges that DHS may suspend the Web Services User’s account
after the six-month period has elapsed.
5.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to incorporate error handling logic into its development
or software to accommodate and act in a timely fashion should an error code be returned.
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6.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to complete the technical requirements testing which is
confirmed upon receiving approval of test data and connectivity between the Web Services E-Verify Employer
Agent and DHS.
7.DHS will not reimburse any Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent or software developer who has expended
resources in the development or maintenance of a Web Services interface if that party is unable, or becomes
unable, to meet any of the requirements set forth in this MOU.
8.Housing, development, infrastructure, maintenance, and testing of the Web Services applications may take
place outside the United States and its territories, but testing must be conducted to ensure that the code is
correct and secure.
9.If the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent includes an electronic Form I-9 as part of its interface, then it
must comply with the standards for electronic retention of Form I-9 found in 8 CFR 274a.2(e).
B. INFORMATION SECURITY REQUIREMENTS
Web Services E-Verify Employer Agents performing verification services under this MOU must ensure that
information that is shared between the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent and DHS is appropriately
protected comparable to the protection provided when the information is within the DHS environment [OMB
Circular A-130 Appendix III].
To achieve this level of information security, the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to institute the
following procedures:
1.Conduct periodic assessments of risk, including the magnitude of harm that could result from the
unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction of information and information
systems that support the operations and assets of the DHS, SSA, and the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent
and its clients;
2.Develop policies and procedures that are based on risk assessments, cost-effectively reduce information
security risks to an acceptable level, and ensure that information security is addressed throughout the life
cycle of each organizational information system;
3.Implement subordinate plans for providing adequate information security for networks, facilities,
information systems, or groups of information systems, as appropriate;
4.Conduct security awareness training to inform the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent’s personnel
(including contractors and other users of information systems that support the operations and assets of the
organization) of the information security risks associated with their activities and their responsibilities in
complying with organizational policies and procedures designed to reduce these risks;
5.Develop periodic testing and evaluation of the effectiveness of information security policies, procedures,
practices, and security controls to be performed with a frequency depending on risk, but no less than once per
year;
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6.Develop a process for planning, implementing, evaluating, and documenting remedial actions to address
any deficiencies in the information security policies, procedures, and practices of the organization;
7.Implement procedures for detecting, reporting, and responding to security incidents;
8.Create plans and procedures to ensure continuity of operations for information systems that support the
operations and assets of the organization;
9.In information-sharing environments, the information owner is responsible for establishing the rules for
appropriate use and protection of the subject information and retains that responsibility even when the
information is shared with or provided to other organizations [NIST SP 800-37].
10.DHS reserves the right to restrict Web Services calls from certain IP addresses.
11.DHS reserves the right to audit the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent’s application.
12.Web Services E-Verify Employer Agents and Software Developers agree to cooperate willingly with the
DHS assessment of information security and privacy practices used by the company to develop and maintain
the software.
C. DATA PROTECTION AND PRIVACY REQUIREMENTS
1.Web Services E-Verify Employer Agents must practice proper Internet security; this means using HTTP over
SSL/TLS (also known as HTTPS) when accessing DHS information resources such as
E-Verify [NIST SP 800-95]. Internet security practices like this are necessary because Simple Object Access
Protocol (SOAP), which provides a basic messaging framework on which Web Services can be built, allows
messages to be viewed or modified by attackers as messages traverse the Internet and is not independently
designed with all the necessary security protocols for E-Verify use.
2.In accordance with DHS standards, the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to maintain physical,
electronic, and procedural safeguards to appropriately protect the information shared under this MOU against
loss, theft, misuse, unauthorized access, and improper disclosure, copying use, modification or deletion.
3.Any data transmission requiring encryption shall comply with the following standards:
•Products using FIPS 197 Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) algorithms with at least 256-bit
encryption that has been validated under FIPS 140-2.
•NSA Type 2 or Type 1 encryption.
4.User ID Management (Set Standard): All information exchanged between the parties under this MOU will
be done only through authorized Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent representatives identified above.
5.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to use the E-Verify browser instead of its own interface if
it has not yet upgraded its interface to comply with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) system changes.
In addition, Web Services E-Verify Employer Agents whose interfaces do not support the Form I-9 from
2/2/2009 or 8/7/2009 should also use the E-Verify browser until the system upgrade is completed.
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6.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to use the E-Verify browser instead of its own interface
if it has not completed updates to its system within six months from the date DHS notifies the Web Services
E-Verify Employer Agent of the system update. The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent can resume use
of its interface once it is up-to-date, unless the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent has been suspended
or terminated from continued use of the system.
D. COMMUNICATIONS
1.Web Services E-Verify Employer Agents and Software Developers agree to develop an electronic system
that is not subject to any agreement that would restrict access to and use of by an agency of the United
States.
2.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to develop effective controls to ensure the integrity,
accuracy and reliability of its electronic system.
3.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to develop an inspection and quality assurance program
that regularly, at least once per year, evaluates the electronic system, and includes periodic checks of
electronically stored information. The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to share the results of its
regular inspection and quality assurance program with DHS upon request.
4.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to develop an electronic system with the ability to
produce legible copies of applicable notices, letters, etc.
5.All information exchanged between the parties under this MOU will be in accordance with applicable laws,
regulations, and policies, including but not limited to, information security guidelines of the sending party
with respect to any information that is deemed Personally Identifiable Information (PII), including but not
limited to the employee or applicant’s Social Security number, alien number, date of birth, or other
information that may be used to identify the individual.
6.Suspected and confirmed information security breaches must be reported to DHS according to Article
II.A.17. Reporting such breaches does not relieve the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent from further
requirements as directed by state and local law. The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent is subject to
applicable state laws regarding data protection and incident reporting in addition to the requirements herein.
E. SOFTWARE DEVELOPER RESTRICTIONS
1.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees that if it develops a Web Services interface and sells
such interface, then it can be held liable for any misuse by the company that purchases the interface. It is
the responsibility of the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent to ensure that its interface is used in
accordance with E-Verify policies and procedures.
2.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees to provide software updates to each client who
purchases its software. Because of the frequency Web Services updates, an ongoing relationship between
the software developer and the client is necessary.
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3.DHS reserves the right to terminate the access of any software developer with or without notice who
creates or uses an interface that does not comply with E-Verify procedures.
4.Web Services Software Developers pursuing software development independent of serving clients as a Web
Services E-Verify Employer Agent are not eligible to receive an ICA. At this time, E-Verify d oes not permit Web
Services software development without also being a Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent or Web Services
Employer.
F. PENALTIES
1.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees that any failure on its part to comply with the terms
of the MOU may result in account suspension, termination, or other adverse action.
2.DHS is not liable for any financial losses to Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent, its clients, or any other
party as a result of your account suspension or termination.
ARTICLE VI
MODIFICATION AND TERMINATION
A. MODIFICATION
1.This MOU is effective upon the signature of all parties and shall continue in effect for as long as the SSA
and DHS operates the E-Verify program unless modified in writing by the mutual consent of all parties.
2.Any and all E-Verify system enhancements by DHS or SSA, including but not limited to E-Verify checking
against additional data sources and instituting new verification policies or procedures, will be covered under
this MOU and will not cause the need for a supplemental MOU that outlines these changes.
B. TERMINATION
1.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent may terminate this MOU and its participation in E-Verify a t any
time upon 30 days prior written notice to the other parties. In addition, any Employer represented by the Web
Services E-Verify Employer Agent may voluntarily terminate its MOU upon giving DHS 30 days’ written notice.
The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent may not refuse to terminate the Employer based upon an
outstanding bill for verification services.
2.Notwithstanding Article V, part A of this MOU, DHS may terminate this MOU, and thereby the Web Services
E-Verify Employer Agent’s participation in E-Verify, with or without notice at any time if deemed necessary
because of the requirements of law or policy, or upon a determination by SSA or DHS that there has been a
breach of system integrity or security by the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent or Employer, or a failure on
the part of either party to comply with established E-Verify procedures and/or legal requirements. The
Employer understands that if it is a Federal contractor, termination of this MOU by any party for any reason
may negatively affect the performance of its contractual responsibilities. Similarly, the Employer understands
that if it is in a state where E-Verify is mandatory, termination of this by any party MOU may negatively affect
the Employer’s business.
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3.A Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent for an Employer that is a Federal contractor may terminate this MOU
when the Federal contract that requires its participation in E-Verify is terminated or completed. In such cases,
the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent must provide written notice to DHS. If the Web Services E-Verify
Employer Agent fails to provide such notice, then that Employer will remain an E-Verify participant, will remain
bound by the terms of this MOU that apply to non-Federal contractor participants, and will be required to use
the E-Verify procedures to verify the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees.
4.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent agrees that E-Verify is not liable for any losses, financial or
otherwise, if the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent or the Employer is terminated from E-Verify.
ARTICLE VII
PARTIES
A.Some or all SSA and DHS responsibilities under this MOU may be performed by contractor(s), and SSA and
DHS may adjust verification responsibilities between each other as necessary. By separate agreement with
DHS, SSA has agreed to perform its responsibilities as described in this MOU.
B.Nothing in this MOU is intended, or should be construed, to create any right or benefit, substantive or
procedural, enforceable at law by any third party against the United States, its agencies, officers, or
employees, or against the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent, its agents, officers, or employees.
C.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent may not assign, directly or indirectly, whether by operation of
law, change of control or merger, all or any part of its rights or obligations under this MOU without the prior
written consent of DHS, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. Any attempt to
sublicense, assign, or transfer any of the rights, duties, or obligations herein is void.
D.Each party shall be solely responsible for defending any claim or action against it arising out of or related
to E-Verify or this MOU, whether civil or criminal, and for any liability wherefrom, including (but not limited to)
any dispute between the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent or the Employer and any other person or entity
regarding the applicability of Section 403(d) of IIRIRA to any action taken or allegedly taken by the Web
Services E-Verify Employer Agent or the Employer.
E.The Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent understands that its participation in E-Verify is not confidential
information and may be disclosed as authorized or required by law and DHS or SSA policy, including but not
limited to, Congressional oversight, E-Verify publicity and media inquiries, determinations of compliance with
Federal contractual requirements, and responses to inquiries under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
F.The individuals whose signatures appear below represent that they are authorized to enter into this MOU
on behalf of the Employer, the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent and DHS respectively. The Web Services
E-Verify Employer Agent understands that any inaccurate statement, representation, data or other information
provided to DHS may subject the Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent, as the case may be, its subcontractors,
its employees, or its representatives to: (1) prosecution for false statements pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1001 and/or; (2)
immediate termination of its MOU and/or; (3) possible debarment or suspension.
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G. The foregoing constitutes the full agreement on this subject between DHS, the Employer, and the E-Verify
Employer Agent. (Employer) hereby designates and appoint
(E-Verify Employer Agent) including its officers and employees,
as the E-Verify Employer Agent for the purpose of carrying out (Employer) responsibilities under the MOU
between the Employer, the E-Verify Employer Agent, and DHS.
If you have any questions, contact E-Verify at 1-888-464-4218.
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Company ID Number: Client Company ID Number:
Approved by:
Employer
Name (Please Type or Print) Title
Signature Date
E-Verify Employer Agent
Name (Please Type or Print) Title
Signature Date
Department of Homeland Security – Verification Division
Name (Please Type or Print) Title
Signature Date
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ADP TotalSource, Inc. (GA)
USCIS Verification Division
05-28-2023
Christiana Daza
05-28-2023Electronically Signed
Electronically Signed
Lou Hammond and Associates Inc SC
2160644
05-28-2023
WFN eVerify TS Team
Electronically Signed
72760
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Company ID Number: Client Company ID Number:
Information Required for the E-Verify Program
Information relating to your Company:
Company Name
Company Facility Address
Company Alternate Address
County or Parish
Employer Identification Number
North American Industry
Classification Systems Code
Parent Company
Number of Employees
Number of Sites Verified for
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Lou Hammond and Associates Inc SC
CHARLESTON
2160644
541
10 to 19
72760
145 King Street
Charleston, SC 29401
204744410
1 site(s)
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Company ID Number: Client Company ID Number:
Are you verifying for more than 1 site? If yes, please provide the number of sites verified for in
each State:
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SC 1
216064472760
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Company ID Number: Client Company ID Number:
Information relating to the Program Administrator(s) for your Company on policy questions or
operational problems:
Page 24 of 25 E-Verify MOU for Employers Using a Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent | Revision Date 06/01/13
Email
8437228880
Christiana Daza
216064472760
Name
Phone Number
Fax
crisn@louhammond.com
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Company ID Number Client Company ID Number: :
This list represents the first 20 Program Administrators listed for this company.
Page 25 of 25 E-Verify MOU for Employers Using a Web Services E-Verify Employer Agent | Revision Date 06/01/13
216064472760
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Document Number
FEI/EIN Number
Date Filed
State
Status
Last Event
Event Date Filed
Event Effective Date
Department of State / Division of Corporations / Search Records / Search by Entity Name /
Detail by Entity Name
Florida Profit Corporation
LOU HAMMOND GROUP FLORIDA, INC.
Filing Information
P02000078131
01-0740680
07/16/2002
FL
ACTIVE
AMENDMENT
08/12/2024
NONE
Principal Address
200 Central Ave
4th Floor
STE 320
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Changed: 07/21/2022
Mailing Address
145 King Street
Suite 411
Charleston, SC 29401
Changed: 03/25/2013
Registered Agent Name & Address
NORTHWEST REGISTERED AGENT LLC
7901 4TH ST N STE 300
ST. PETERSBURG, FL 33702
Name Changed: 01/29/2021
Address Changed: 01/29/2021
Officer/Director Detail
Name & Address
Title Chairman/Founder
D C Florida Department of State
3/27/25, 2:05 PM Detail by Entity Name
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HAMMOND, LOU R
900 3rd Avenue
Suite 401
NEW YORK, NY 10022
Title CEO
HAMMOND, STEPHEN
900 3rd Avenue
Suite 401
NEW YORK, NY 10022
Annual Reports
Report Year Filed Date
2023 07/18/2023
2024 07/12/2024
2025 02/11/2025
Document Images
02/11/2025 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
08/12/2024 -- Amendment View image in PDF format
07/12/2024 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
05/29/2024 -- Name Change View image in PDF format
07/18/2023 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
07/21/2022 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
01/29/2021 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
01/29/2021 -- Reg. Agent Change View image in PDF format
12/04/2020 -- Amendment View image in PDF format
02/19/2020 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
02/15/2019 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
03/28/2018 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
02/23/2017 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
03/02/2016 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
02/17/2015 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
01/17/2014 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
03/25/2013 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
03/20/2012 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
01/04/2011 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
01/31/2010 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
03/23/2009 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
11/07/2008 -- REINSTATEMENT View image in PDF format
10/08/2007 -- REINSTATEMENT View image in PDF format
07/14/2006 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
09/08/2005 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
08/09/2004 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
05/01/2003 -- ANNUAL REPORT View image in PDF format
3/27/25, 2:05 PM Detail by Entity Name
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08/14/2002 -- Name Change View image in PDF format
07/16/2002 -- Domestic Profit View image in PDF format
Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations
3/27/25, 2:05 PM Detail by Entity Name
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025 122
CASE STUDY
CHALLENGE Change Charleston’s perception from a second-tier tourist destination to a highly sought-
after vacation experience and good place to do business.
ACTION •Launched annual Charleston Wine & Food Festival and Charleston Heritage Federation
to elevate the city’s profile among culinary and arts/culture audiences.
•Advocated Explore Charleston’s tourism management initiatives through public
relations and social media services on behalf of the Charleston Hospitality Association.
Provided crisis communications and recovery support ongoing.
•Arranged relationships with NBC’s “TODAY,” resulting in two on-location segment
series.
RESULTS •Charleston judged #1 Small U.S. City, Condé Nast Traveler; ranked #1 U.S. City, Travel +
Leisure (12 years in a row); won Best U.S. City, AFAR and voted The South’s Best City,
Southern Living. As a result, research links activity to increased airlift from multiple
airlines.
•Results a 50% sustained growth reported in tourism revenue and the establishment
that Charleston is a four-season destination.
EXPLORE CHARLESTON | A 16-YEAR PARTNERSHIP
Average Annual Reach: 996 million+ impressions
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025 124
CASE STUDY
CHALLENGE Solidify Jekyll Island as the go-to destination for travelers seeking a unique experience to
see and learn about sea turtles, while also positioning the island as a premier destination
for conservation and eco-tourism activities.
ACTION •Hosted six journalists for sea turtle experiences, including a CNN broadcast crew.
•Generated national coverage in FOX News, ABC, NPR, USA Today, Southern Living
and more.
•Showcased the destination’s array of offerings through segmented pitching and
creative story angles.
RESULTS •Three CNN broadcast segments highlighting Jekyll Island’s sea turtles and
conservation efforts.
•Secured 3.3 billion+ impressions in just seven months.
JEKYLL ISLAND AUTHORITY | A 1.5-YEAR PARTNERSHIP
Average Annual Reach: 3.6 billion+ impressions
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025 126
CASE STUDY
CHALLENGE Expand Santa Fe’s reputation as one of America’s most culturally rich art cities. Drive increased awareness as
well for culinary and outdoor segments to local, regional, and national audiences.
ACTION •Launched PR campaign matching messaging to outlets, underscoring outdoor and culinary strengths of the
city.
•Organized media tours from top feeder markets, including New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago,
Denver, Houston, Dallas, Phoenix; met 30+ outlets annually.
•Coordinated press visits of 50+ key travel writers, Austin-American Statesman, Chicago Tribune, The Dallas
Morning News, Forbes and USA Today; and customized itineraries allowing behind-the-scenes access.
•Co-hosted 10+ journalists annually with Ski Santa Fe, showcasing accessibility to the slopes.
•Partnered with New Mexico Tourism to host the Bachelor; leveraged episode to create secondary coverage
with distinctive hotel packages.
•Launched Santa Fe Margarita Trail, featuring 30 different spots throughout the city.
RESULTS •Dedicated coverage in The Los Angeles Times, USA Today and New York Times; magazines: Condé Nast
Traveler, National Geographic Traveler, AFAR, Robb Report and Travel + Leisure; websites: Huffington Post,
Forbes.com; meeting trades: Successful Meetings and more. Average 250 stories per year. Named
America’s “Number One Culinary Getaway,” Travel + Leisure. Consecutive Top 5 “Best U.S. City” Ranking,
Travel + Leisure. #2 Small City, Condé Nast Traveler. Best Little Cities To Live If You Love Outdoors, Market
Water.
•Santa Fe ranked #2 Favorite City in the U.S. Travel + Leisure 2023 World’s Best and Condé Nast Traveler
2023 Readers Choice Awards
SANTA FE | A 15-YEAR PARTNERSHIP
Average Annual Reach: 1 billion+ impressions
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RFP: NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
APRIL 8, 2025 128
CASE STUDY
CHALLENGE Position Mississippi as an undiscovered southeastern destination offering unmatched
outdoor, historic, culinary and cultural experiences and hospitality that “welcomes all who
wander” in a more inclusive way than previously perceived.
ACTION •Implemented a statewide regional strategy for media relations, matching agency
ambassadors with individual stakeholders to ensure equitable coverage.
•Introduced Mississippi to national and regional media through a series of regional
highlights showcasing the outdoor, civil rights, culinary and cultural attractions, events
and unique lodging found around the state.
•Hosted media and influencers on individual trips to experience multiple destinations
within the state based on road-trip, outdoor adventure and culinary themes.
•Executed media missions in target markets (New York, Chicago, Atlanta) in conjunction
with major events like the Chicago Blues Festival and Atlanta Food and Wine Festival.
•Partnered with Fox News to tout Mississippi as a top domestic drive market along with
a satellite media tour targeting major markets.
RESULTS •Secured coverage in USA Today, Forbes, Thrillist, Southern Living, Travel and Leisure,
Ebony, Atlanta Journal Constitution, Matador Network and Smart Meetings, among
others.
VISIT MISSISSIPPI | A 3-YEAR PARTNERSHIP
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