Kalispell Chamber honors business and community leaders
Daily Inter-Lake | UPDATED 2 days, 3 hours AGO
Kalispell businessman Paul Wachholz smiles during a back-to-school open house event at Stillwater Christian School, where it was announced that Wachholz was donating $5 million to the school to build an addition on Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024, file photo. (Casey Kreider/Daily Inter Lake file photo)
The Kalispell Chamber of Commerce honored eight distinguished individuals, businesses, and organizations for their leadership, innovation, service, and lasting contributions during its Grand Event Thursday at the Hilton Garden Inn.
"Kalispell's greatest strength has always been its people — those who are willing to take risks, build businesses, invest in others, and work together to create something bigger than themselves," said Lorraine Clarno, president and CEO of the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. "This year's honorees represent both the legacy that built our community and the bold leadership that will carry it forward. They remind us that progress doesn't happen by accident. It happens because people care enough to lead, invest, innovate, and serve."
The chamber's highest honor, the Flathead Legacy Award, was presented posthumously to Paul D. Wachholz, who died at 89 on July 28.
His remarkable legacy of philanthropy, community leadership, and investment in Northwest Montana continues to enrich lives and create opportunities for generations, according to chamber leaders. From education and healthcare to the arts and community development, his generosity and vision have helped shape the community.
His legacy includes the Paul D. Wachholz College Center and the Wachholz Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center at Flathead Valley Community College. He provided a $5 million donation to the Stillwater Christian School to build its Early Learning Center.
He built one of the largest real estate franchise in Montana and built the beer and wine distributorship Fun Beverage Inc.
Businessperson of the Year: Will Schmautz, Nomad GCS, a Kratos Company
Recognized for visionary leadership, business innovation, and a commitment to growing economic opportunity in Northwest Montana, Will Schmautz exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit that drives the Flathead Valley forward. His work has helped demonstrate that companies rooted in Montana can compete, innovate, and succeed on a national and global stage while creating meaningful career opportunities close to home.
Large Business of the Year: Glacier Range Riders
Led by Chris Kelly and an exceptional team, the Glacier Range Riders have brought far more than professional baseball to Kalispell. Through investment in recreation, family entertainment, tourism, community partnerships, and regional pride, the organization has become an important part of the Flathead Valley's economic and cultural landscape. Their success demonstrates the power of creating experiences that bring people together.
Small Business of the Year: Kettle Care Botanicals
Established 40 years ago and purchased in 2012 by Annegret and Klaus Pfeifer, Kettle Care Botanicals represents the ingenuity, perseverance, and authenticity of Montana's small business community. Through their dedication to quality products, thoughtful business practices, and local roots, the company has built a distinctive Montana brand and demonstrated how entrepreneurial passion can grow into a lasting business.
Rising Star Award: Joe Davison, GL Solutions
Joe Davison is recognized as an emerging leader whose entrepreneurial drive, community engagement, and commitment to Kalispell's future are making a meaningful difference. Through his professional leadership and willingness to contribute his time and talents to the community, Davison represents the next generation of business and civic leaders helping move Kalispell forward.
Community Spirit Award: Sarah Steinke, Daily Inter Lake
A strong community is built by people who show up, connect others, tell important stories, and contribute beyond their professional responsibilities. Sarah Steinke exemplifies that spirit through her work with the Daily Inter Lake and her dedication to the people and organizations of the Flathead Valley. Her enthusiasm, relationships, and commitment to community reflect the very best of Kalispell.
Educational Excellence Award: Growing Roots Early Learning Center
Honoring the vision and contributions of leadership at Immanuel Living and Leigh Ann Downie-Economy, Growing Roots Early Learning Center is recognized for its commitment to early childhood education and the essential role quality child care plays in strengthening families, supporting working parents, and building a healthy workforce. The award celebrates the profound impact early childhood educators have on children, families, employers, and the future of the community.
Nonprofit of the Year: Kalispell Education Foundation
The Kalispell Education Foundation, led by Dorothy Drury and its dedicated team, is honored for its commitment to expanding opportunities for students, supporting educators, and strengthening public education. By connecting community generosity with educational needs, the Foundation helps create experiences and opportunities that benefit students today while investing in tomorrow's workforce and community leaders.