FL S1854

Celebrates Franco-Floridian relationships and recognizes Florida's rich French heritage, commemorating the 450th anniversary of French presence in Florida beginning in 2012.

Acknowledges the first French expedition led by Jean Ribault in spring 1562 and the founding of Fort Caroline near Jacksonville on June 30, 1564, as the first French settlement on American soil.

Notes that Florida communities have established 15 sister city relationships with France, including the recent agreement between Cognac and the Village of Pinecrest focusing on educational initiatives.

Recognizes Miami and Nice as sister cities since 1963 and highlights the Miami-Nice Jazz Festival organized in October 2012 by the French-American Chamber of Commerce in Miami.

Acknowledges approximately 30,000 French citizens residing in Florida who provide about 18,000 jobs and contribute to the state's economic well-being, and recognizes French-English bilingual education programs in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties and the France Florida Foundation for the Arts.