This annual hospitality award was established in 2003 by the Walton County Tourist Development Council (WCTDC) to encourage and recognize excellence in hospitality service, travel/tourism marketing, advertising, promotion, and/or contributions to the local community. The award honors the legacy of service embodied by the Van Ness Butler family who acquired the land now known as Grayton Beach in 1922. The Butler family built the Grayton Beach Hotel, and through their family?s passion, determination and energy, truly defined Grayton Beach and set the stage for the tourism industry. Following his grandfather?s legacy, Van Ness Butler, Jr. served as the first chairman of the WCTDC, an interim executive director for two years and has continued to serve on the Tourist Development Council for 13 years. This award also honors the Florida Tourism Hall of Fame inductees and pioneers of Walton County?s hospitality and tourism industries.
Nominees for the Van Ness Butler Jr. Hospitality Award are judged on their initiative, merits and innovation in achieving organizational success and/or in enhancing Walton County?s local, national or international standing as a travel destination.
Announcement of the Van Ness Butler Jr. Hospitality Award winner will coincide with the Walton County Tourist Development Council Annual Meeting in October of 2008.
