In describing the memorable evening he accepted the 1998 Prix de West Buyers Choice Award for Winter Grandeur Revealed, Curt Walters said:

“Following the sale and right before the banquet was to begin, 1,200 of us were suddenly ushered to the basement because of a tornado warning. When the danger had passed we all sat down to cold steaks and warm salads and what seemed like the light of a 60-watt bulb.

To my great surprise it was announced I was the winner…My heart began to race as I thought about how many years it had taken me to get into this room. I made my way through the dark so I could deliver my acceptance speech by megaphone…

I wish I could have expressed how important this moment was for me. Even to this day, this is my most treasured award.”