Visit South Walton Opens Nominations for Van Ness Butler, Jr. Award

Visit South Walton Opens Nominations for Van Ness Butler, Jr. Award

Feb. 14, 2022— Visit South Walton is excited to announce the opening of nominations for The Van Ness Butler, Jr. Award.

The Van Ness Butler, Jr. award recognizes the legacy of service embodied by the Butler family, who founded the Grayton Beach Hotel and through their family’s passion, determination, and energy set the stage for the developing tourism industry. Nominees for the award are judged on their initiative, merits and innovation in achieving organizational success and on working with other community businesses or organizations to enhance Walton County’s local, national or international standing as a travel destination. Nominations are open to any person residing or working in Walton County who has been an outstanding force in promoting tourism and hospitality.

“Walton County is home to incredibly talented and caring individuals who spend countless hours giving back and making a difference,” says Matt Algarin, director of communications for the Walton County Tourism Department. “This award is an opportunity to recognize someone who strives to make the Walton County tourism economy shine, all while enhancing the quality of life within the community.”

The winner will be announced during an upcoming Walton County TDC meeting.

Past winners include Jim Shirley in 2020, Tracy Louthain in 2019, Lino Maldonado in 2017, Jennifer Steele in 2016, Mike Ragsdale in 2015 and Jeanne Dailey in 2014.

Nominations will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Feb. 28, 2022. To learn more about the award or two make a nomination, visit: https://www.visitsouthwalton.com/community-programs/van-ness-butler-jr-award/. 

Link to photo of the 2020 Van Ness Butler, Jr. Award Jim Shirley. https://platform.crowdriff.com/m/s-ZZqJCcCNt_H9ipoZ