Kalispell Chamber Now Accepting Nominations for Kalispell Business Awards

The Kalispell Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for its 46th Great Chief, Businessman, and Businesswoman of the Year awards. All nominations submitted to the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce by Monday, October 2nd will be considered for recognition and all awards will be presented during the Kalispell Chamber’s 113th Annual Banquet, Thursday, November 9th at the Hilton Garden Inn.

The Great Chief Award is the oldest and most prestigious award given by the Chamber, dating back to the early 1970’s. The award honors an individual who has continued to create a legacy for the Flathead Valley through their civic and volunteer spirit.

In 2016, the 45th Great Chief Award was presented to BJ Lupton, owner of Snappy Sports Senter since 1978 and avid community volunteer. Lupton’s dedication to over 80 different community service organizations, including volunteer fire departments, Kalispell Regional Healthcare’s A.L.E.R.T program, and the Glacier Symphony and Chorale, in addition to the youth development programs he created through Snappy’s, qualified him as the perfect recipient for last year’s honor.

The two other awards, Businessman of the Year and Businesswoman of the Year, recognize owners or managers of Kalispell Chamber member businesses who are outstanding leaders and whose businesses have made positive contributions to our local economy. Additionally, businessman and businesswoman nominees should utilize good management practices with their customers, employees, and vendors, and be well respected by their peers.

The Businessman of the Year award last year was presented to Mark Pirrie, owner of one of the most iconic businesses in the Flathead Valley, Western Outdoor. In addition to sound business practices and glowing testimonials of superior leadership, Mark continues to keep Western Outdoor involved in the community, most recently through the 4-H/FFA Market Livestock Sale.

Also in 2016, Holly Jean Larson, manager of the First and Main Building in Downtown Kalispell, was awarded as Businesswoman of the Year and recognized for her additional community contributions through the Flathead Valley Community College Foundation, A.L.E.R.T., Alpine Theater Project, and United Way.

The community is welcome to nominate individuals that represent these characteristics that will lay the foundation for success in the valley for years to come. Nomination forms can be found at http://www.kalispellchamber.com/programs/annual-banquet, at the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce, or by e-mailing [email protected].

Kate Lufkin, Marketing & Communications Specialist

Kalispell Chamber of Commerce

Convention & Visitor Bureau

15 Depot Park | Kalispell, MT 59901

(P) 406-758-2801 (F) 406-758-2805