Reviewed by: Pat Byington
2025 Frank Stitt Award winners announced by Southbound Food Festival
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Named for renowned Birmingham chef and restaurateur, the Frank Stitt Industry Excellence Award honors those making a positive impact on their local community and culinary industry.
Bill and Beth Walton receive Frank Stitt Industry Excellence Award
This year’s Industry Excellence Award goes to Bill and Beth Walton, recognized for advancing sustainable seafood and preserving coastal food traditions across the South.
According to a press release from Southbound Food Festival, Bill Walton is the A. Marshall Acuff, Sr. Professor of Marine Science and Shellfish Aquaculture Program Coordinator at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science at William & Mary. He works directly with farmers, researchers and resource managers to address challenges and opportunities in the field.
Beth Walton is the Executive Director of Oyster South, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Southern oyster farming and connecting communities to healthy waters and good food. She’s also a marine biologist and former oyster farmer!
“Beth and Bill Walton, founders of Oyster South, have played a pivotal role in advancing oyster farming and championing the success of hundreds of oyster farmers from New England to the Gulf Coast.
Through their pioneering work, guidance and expertise in aquaculture, countless individuals have built prosperous livelihoods by farming and cultivating the best tasting oysters while improving the ecological balance of our vital wetlands.”
Chef Frank Stitt in a press release
Southbound Food Festival is September 19-28
Formerly known as FOOD+Culture Fest, the Southbound Food Festival is a celebration of Alabama’s culinary heritage and diversity.
The Waltons will be honored during the festival’s Heritage Dinner on Friday, September 19.
The Southbound Food Festival will continue through September 28.
This year’s theme, Coastal Traditions, was chosen to honor the work of the Waltons and their dedication to aquaculture, seafood education and support of oyster farmers.
Tickets go on sale for the Southbound Food Festival on Monday, July 7.
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