SEBRING, Fla. (Aug. 29, 2017) – Visit Sebring  the destination marketing organization for Highlands County, is proud to be the recipient of a first place Flagler Award known as “The Henry.” Each year the Flagler Awards, a statewide competition recognizing outstanding Florida tourism marketing, pays tribute to the determined efforts of those who use their skill, resourcefulness, creativity and innovative spirit to market Florida to the world.

Three finalists in 17 categories were announced on Aug. 28 at the annual Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism in Hollywood, FL.  This particular award recognized the county’s re-branding to Visit Sebring in the Rural County Marketing category.  The award program was created by VISIT FLORIDA to honor the countless individuals and organizations that help position Florida as the #1 travel destination in the world.

“We are thrilled to receive a first place honor by the state of Florida for excellence in tourism marketing”, said TDC & Highlands County Board of County Commission Chairman Don Elwell. “The TDC has made tremendous strides over the past few years, and this statewide recognition of our destination re-branding and marketing campaign really means a lot to our entire board.”

Visit Sebring works to generate overnight accommodation stays, increase tax revenues, stimulate economic growth and enhance the image of Sebring and Highlands County to people outside the county. Visit Sebring is also commonly referred to as the Office of Tourist Development, and the Highlands County Tourist Development Council (TDC) governs it.

Any Florida-based business, organization or individual actively involved in promoting the various products and experiences that make up Florida’s tourism industry may enter the Flagler Awards. That includes hotels, resorts, inns, condos and other accommodators; restaurants; museums, parks, gardens, theme parks, tours and other attractions; rental car companies, airlines and other transportation companies; destination marketing organizations such as Convention & Visitors Bureaus, Tourist Development Councils, Chambers of Commerce and others; visitor centers; associations; non-profit and not-for-profit organizations; private individuals; as well as government agencies involved in tourism marketing (parks and recreation, fishing and wildlife, etc.).

In the Sebring area, you’ll find nearly 100 crystal clear lakes for fishing and boating, more than a dozen of Florida’s most affordable golf courses, one of Florida’s oldest state parks, and a reminder of why everyone loves authentic Florida. Our gently rolling hills, orange groves and charming small towns make this a relaxing country getaway with a central location. For more information, VisitSebring.com or call (800) 545-6021.