Awards Programs

Sheriff Mike Adkinson Honored with Van Ness Butler Award

The South Walton TDC named Walton County Sheriff Michael A. Adkinson, Jr. its 2011 Van Ness Butler Hospitality Award recipient at its annual meeting October 12.  Each year, the TDC recognizes a pioneer in the tourism industry with the prestigious Butler Award, bestowed upon a community member for visionary leadership in helping to shape South Walton into a premier tourist destination. To learm more about the Van Ness Butler Award contact Jami Ray.

Allison Craft Named 2012 Artist of the Year

The South Walton TDC named jewelry designer Allison Craft its 2012 Artist of the Year at its annual meeting on Wednesday. Now in its tenth year, the Artist of the Year program has grown to showcase a collection of local artists that offer a wide range of media. Through this program, the TDC promotes the destination’s thriving arts community and places the spotlight on a talented artist each year.  To learn more about the Artist of the Year program, contact Jami Ray.

Above & Beyond 2011 Award Winners Announced

Ken and Lorraine Sloan, of GetawayAssist, and Murray Balkcom, of Walco Eco Tours, were named the 2011 Above and Beyond Hospitality Award winners at Wednesday's annual meeting. Now in its fourth year, the Above and Beyond Hospitality Award,recognizes individuals whose hard work and dedication to exceptional customer service contribute to the growth of the region’s tourism industry.
The Sloans earned the lodging category award as owners of GetawayAssist, a vacation rental service company that has operated in South Walton for the past 11 years. Several visitors nominated the Sloans for the award, citing their superb hospitality, attention to detail and knowledge of the area.
In the non-lodging category, Murray Balkcom was honored for his contributions to educating visitors about South Walton’s rich environmental treasures. As owner of Walco Eco Tours for the past five years, Balkcom provides guided hands-on eco tours for South Walton visitors.
To learn more about the Above and Beyond program cotact Elisa Smith.