The Devils Lake Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 96th Annual Celebration of Business and Community Event last week, recognizing the Chamber’s efforts in the last year and Chamber members who have made a difference in the community.
About 100 people gathered for the meeting, where Paula Vistad, executive director of the Chamber, ran through the last year’s events, including the over 15 ribbon cuttings at area businesses, and events to come in the next year.
From over 300 members in the Chamber, a select few were recognized with awards at the annual meeting.
“There are so many great businesses in Devils Lake that it was hard to choose just one in each of the categories,” Vistad said. “Chamber members nominated these people, and I believe that when peers vote for their peers it strongly represents great leadership in our community.”
The Women-owned Business Achievement Award, recognized a women-owned member business that has attained outstanding business achievement and exemplifies significant contributions to the chamber and community, was awarded to Marlena Thorson at Crossroads Coffee and Espresso.
The Excellence in Small Business Award, recognizing a member business with 10 or less employees that displays overall outstanding contributions to the Chamber and business community, was awarded to Gary and Nancy Conkins of Slumberland Furniture.
The Longest Standing Chamber Member of the Year, which recognizes a member business that has been a Chamber member for 25-50 years and has made outstanding contributions to the local community, was awarded to Renard Bergstrom at Devils Lake Cars.
New Chamber Business of the Year Award, recognizing a member business established less than two years ago and that has made outstanding contributions to the community, was awarded to Jeb Oehlke of Black Paws Brewing Company.
Chamber Member of the Year was awarded to Heidi Becker of Gate City Bank. The award is given to a member who promotes community projects and events, extensively involved in service and civic organizations, promotes and enhances the quality of life for those in the Devils Lake area and inspires others to be involved in the community.
“These (award winners) are always there and participating in activities or sponsoring events,” Vistad said. “They take advantage of the Chamber and what it has to offer. They don’t just pay a membership fee and sit back; they let us work for them and work with us.”
Additionally, new president of the Chamber board, Erin Wood, was recognized at the event.
