Walton County Tourism Recognizes Art and Hospitality Contributions to the Community

Walton County is known for its thriving culture, and Walton County Tourism proudly recognizes the people whose art and hospitality contributions have impacted the community.

Sarah Page, 2024 Artist of the Year

Sarah Page calls DeFuniak Springs home, and her murals can be found in public spaces throughout Walton County such as Grand Boulevard, the newly opened Inlet Beach Underpass and the Walton County Fairgrounds.

The Artist of the Year Award honors a Walton County artist whose unique artistic expression captures the essence of the destination’s renowned creativity and beauty. The tourism initiative highlights local artists, spotlighting their work through diverse publicity channels and events throughout the year.

Georgia-born Page studied graphic design at the University of South Florida in Tampa and worked in nonprofit marketing before pursuing art full-time. Her interest in art developed in childhood when her father taught her to draw cartoon characters like Yosemite Sam.

As a nature lover, elements of the great outdoors and environmentalism are significant to Page’s work. Her public art pieces make her feel connected to the community, adding new meaning to everyday spaces. She is especially drawn to public art’s impact on the everyday lives of residents and visitors.

“I think that’s what artists do; we’re able to translate our feelings into something that people can see and touch and connect to,” she shared.

Page is excited for the future, embracing doing what she loves. For her, being named Artist of the Year felt like a dream. “It inspires me to keep creating and pushing myself in my artistic journey,” she said. I am very proud and beyond thankful to this community for supporting the arts, and I’m honored to be listed among so many hard-working, talented artists.”

Amy Wise-Coble, 2025 Van Ness Butler, Jr. Hospitality Award Winner

Amy Wise-Coble, Walton County Tourist Development Council member and general manager of the Homeowner’s Collection Vacation Rentals, is the 2025 Van Ness Butler, Jr. Hospitality Award winner. With strong community leadership skills and a passion for customer service, Wise-Coble is a true embodiment of this award. 

Now in its 22nd year, The Van Ness Butler, Jr. Hospitality Award recognizes excellence in hospitality service, travel/tourism marketing, advertising, promotion and contributions to the local community. Sponsored by Walton County Tourism, the award honors the legacy of service embodied by the Van Ness Butler family.

An Alabama native and Auburn graduate, Wise-Coble said she was grateful and humbled to receive this award. Her passion for customer service and building relationships within the Walton County tourism destination has spurred her success in the hospitality industry.

She also acknowledges another industry professional who inspired her on her journey. “When I think of early on in my career, Joann Saucier was probably one of the most impactful professionals as far as someone that I truly looked up to,” said Wise-Coble. “It’s a real honor to have come up through the operation side and see names like hers on that list of winners.” Saucier is the 2004 recipient of the award and a local hospitality consultant.

Wise-Coble acknowledges that growth in the area can have its drawbacks, but working with others in the community to solve problems has benefits for all. A two-time Tourism Development Council member, Wise-Coble aims to continue a strong relationship with Walton County Tourism.

“I try to be a positive ambassador and deliver the ideal guest experience,” she emphasized, adding, “I’m hoping to help the TDC on tourism-related issues and be a positive voice.”

 

For more information on Sarah Page and the Artist of the Year program, visit waltoncountyfltourism.com/artist-year. 

For more information on the Van Ness Butler., Jr. Hospitality Awards, visit waltoncountyfltourism.com/van-ness-butler-jr-award.