CLAY COUNTY – A group of residents, elected officials, and business leaders will head to Tallahassee to remind state legislators that Clay County is a “Sweet Home,” too.

The group will focus on the county’s deep Southern Rock and Roll roots to encourage lawmakers to keep Clay in their plans during the session, which started last Tuesday.

The contingent will play clips on video screens of Lynyrd Skynyrd, 38 Special and Molly Hatchet – legendary bands with residential ties to the county.

“We’re going to have these as a backdrop. There’ll be a stage set up. There’ll be a big tent with food, I’m guessing barbecue and stuff like that,” said Clay Chamber President Jon Cantrell. “That’s the hook we’re hanging Clay County on. We’re known for Southern Rock and proud of that.”

Clay Day will be Jan. 16 and 17. The Clay Economic Development Council is the primary driving force behind the meet and greet. The organization’s president, Crawford Powell, said previous trips have significantly benefited the county.

In 2022, the legislature approved a $250 million capital improvement grant for Project Gator to develop the county’s northwest corner near Clay Hill. That helped lead to IKO Industries’ decision to spend $5.26 million for property at County Road 218 and U.S. Highway 301 for a $270 million, 650,000-square-foot plant to make residential roofing projects. Once completed, IKO will hire more than 100 employees.

Clay officials want to host public and social forums to highlight their business-friendly environment, attract new visitors and communicate the county’s legislative needs. They plan to huddle with Clay’s legislative representatives, Sen. Jennifer Bradley and Reps. Sam Garrison and Bobby Payne. But Cantrell said they hope to walk the halls and meet as many other legislators as possible.

“It’s a great way to make new contacts and network,” Cantrell said.

And they hope to be “Rockin’ into the Night.”

“It’s really their opportunity to brag about their community and showcase how our community can help get things done for Florida’s best interest,” said Kimberly Morgan, the county’s Director of Tourism and Film Development.

“We are planning a Southern rock concert kind of vibe. It’s going to be a place where people can gather to do business. Those kinds of conversations don’t normally happen in an office. It’s kind of like the golf course, except we’re in Tallahassee at the Capitol. We created that environment to have those conversations and build relationships with the people who can do things for the betterment of Clay County.”

Businesses hope to increase brand exposure during Clay Day, according to Sponsorship Development Coordinator George Biastre Jr.

“It’s a great opportunity to deepen our connections with the people who make a difference,” he said. “Clay Day is an opportunity for our elected officials, constitutionals and other interested citizens to go over and interact with legislators. It’s an opportunity for us to showcase Clay County over in Tallahassee.”