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“We are beyond honored to be recognized statewide with this top distinction for this media effort and
thrilled by the incredible success of the project highlighting our one-of-a-kind natural environment,”
said Loretta Shaffer, Tourism Development Director for Marion County. “The Ocala National Forest takes
up more than a quarter of Marion County as a whole and plays an important role in attracting outdoor
enthusiasts to visit our great destination. We are proud to bring the ‘Best of Show’ award home with us
to Marion County and grateful to our county leadership, the Tourist Development Council, our hospitality
industry and media partners for the continued support of our efforts to promote tourism.”

The Ocala National Forest is a very significant part of the tourism story in Marion County; however, its
vastness makes it difficult to capture in a way that can be conveyed to visitors. To garner visually stunning
graphics with access to remote parts of the Forest, the OMCVCB partnered with “More Than Just Parks.”
To view the video, click here or watch below.

ABOUT THE AWARDS: VISIT FLORIDA created the annual Flagler Awards to honor the countless individuals
and organizations that help position Florida as the No. 1 travel destination in the world. Each year,
the Flagler Awards pay tribute to the determined efforts of those who use their skill, resourcefulness,
creativity and innovative spirit to market Florida on an international scale. As in previous years, the 2022
Flagler Awards drew entries from Florida’s tourism partners, large and small. Working independently, a
panel of judges evaluated the creativity, innovation, production quality, and effectiveness of each entry.
Based on the judges’ cumulative scores, awards were presented to the top three entries in each category:
the Bronze Award for the third highest scoring entry, the Silver Award for the second highest scoring entry,
and for the highest scoring entry in each category, the Henry Award. The 2022 Flagler Awards features
winners in 18 categories, plus a “Best in Show” award at three budget levels.

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About: Internationally renowned among equestrians, cyclists, geologists and even the world of classic cinematography, Ocala/Marion County
still feels like a hidden gem to those who aren’t already insiders. And yet, when your’re here, you’re never an outsider. The relaxed, genuine
friendliness of the county’s communities makes you feel welcome wherever you go. From its otherwordly natural springs to the compounds of
World Equestrian Center and Florida Aquatics Swimming and Training to its vibrant restaurants, quaint shops, dynamic arts and culture, and
historic sites, the destination takes you by surprise in the best of ways. For more information about Ocala/Marion County, visit OcalaMarion.com
or call toll-free 1.888.FL.OCALA.