US: SAF members take to Congress – and the White House

More than 90 Society of American Florists members representing all industry segments, three countries, 25 states and the District of Columbia, traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with lawmakers and key congressional staff. While there, the group advocated powerfully for issues that are critical to the success of retail florists, wholesalers, growers and suppliers — and the overall health of the floral industry.

“I come to Congressional Action Days because I believe that we as good citizens need to make a difference,” said Michael Pugh, AAF, of Pugh’s Flowers in Memphis, Tennessee. “The only way our elected representatives know what we’re thinking is if we come here and make our voices heard.”

This year’s event featured a direct address from a California congressman with personal ties to the floral industry, a spirited and bipartisan talk about high-profile issues from D.C. insiders, an address from a veteran network journalist — and a nearly three-hour White House briefing created especially for SAF, featuring remarks from and Q&A sessions with seven top administration officials.

For many SAF members, the chance to be on the Hill with their industry peers, speaking to lawmakers, has become a highlight of their calendar.

Read more at safnow.org (Mary Westbrook)