Crist Fishing Trip in Destin

This past week Governor Charlie Crist announced BP followed through on its promise to fund an advertising campaign to boost tourism and let people know Florida's beaches are unaffected by the oil spill. Saturday Crist led by example, visiting Destin with his wife, Carole, to do some Gulf fishing. Boat captains say hopefully the governor's visit to the panhandle will encourage more people to visit Florida.

Last week, BP gave the state $25 million dollars to promote tourism, with most of the money going to the panhandle.

Crist says tv, radio, and newspaper ads are now running in markets around the southeast, promoting a positive image for Florida's white beaches and emerald waters.

"I want to make sure that your viewers know that we've going to make everyone whole that's impacted in a negative way whether it's charter boat captains, fishermen, restaurants. We're here for the long haul. No one is going to be left alone," Crist said.

Earlier this week during a cabinet meeting, State Senator Don Gaetz blasted Crist and Visit Florida for what he called Crist's lack of action over the oil spill.

More…