A Reel Big Night: Chamber honors local leaders

The Bigfork Area Chamber of Commerce held their “A Reel Big Night” awards banquet on Tuesday, Feb. 25 to honor local business and community leaders and thank them for their service. Attendees put on their best Hollywood character getups and cruised into Andy’s Crafthouse for the event.  

The Heart of Bigfork award went to Joel Hagan, for going above and beyond the call of duty and bringing warmth and laughter to his community. Former owner of Grille 459, Hagan was described as a dedicated and generous Bigfork community member, serving up both libations and laughs.   

Toot and TJ Sward were awarded the Little Red Hen, a prize that goes to individuals who dedicate their time and energy to volunteering. The Swards have helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for Bigfork Schools by collecting and tallying grocery store receipts for Register Tapes for Education. 

Business of the Year went to Flathead Lake Lodge, a cornerstone business in Bigfork for 80 years.  

MJ and Maranda Johnson of Good Stuff Botanicals earned Business Person of the Year for their efforts turning a cottage business into a nationally recognized brand, soon to expand internationally. 

Birch Provisions won the Emerging Business Award as the new sandwich shop and retail store has filled a unique niche in downtown Bigfork and stepped up to help the community as a whole. 

    TJ and Toot Sward receive the Little Red Hen award. (Courtesy/Bigfork Area Chamber of Commerce)
  

    Joel Hagan (right) receives the Heart of Bigfork award. (Courtesy/Bigfork Area Chamber of Commerce)