2022 DL Chamber of Commerce Splash Award Winners Announced

Photo: Detroit Lakes Chamber of Commerce

Detroit Lakes, MN (KDLM) – The Detroit Lakes Chamber of Commerce hosted its fourth-annual Splash Awards to The Lodge in Detroit Lakes on Thursday afternoon, honoring and recognizing individuals and businesses in the area for their impact and involvement.

“One thing that we love about Detroit Lakes, and something that I think makes Detroit Lakes the envy of communities throughout the state, is that there is an amazing amount of people and businesses that feel it’s their obligation to give back,” said Midwest Bank’s Steve Daggett. “That can be in volunteer efforts and giving up their time, or financially. It really is amazing. People say ‘it seems like Detroit Lakes always has everything down’. That really doesn’t happen without everybody’s efforts,”

There were seven award recipients at this year’s awards:

Karen Pifher was awarded the Accelerator Award, which recognizes an individual who motivates their friends, colleagues, and community to get involved. This person is a dedicated volunteer, team-builder, and community collaborator. Karen has volunteered many hours for the community of Frazee. Her work to bring Cornerstone Community and Youth Center to life is years in the making. She gathers people together and leads them to action. Her dedication has helped spur change and has brought Frazee a Frisbee golf course, murals, and many outreach programs helping the residents and youth of the community. Dawn Duncan and Lee Kensinger were also finalists for the award.

The Detroit Lakes Fire Department was awarded the Ripple Award, which is given to the club, group, or non-profit that motivates the people around them to be engaged and contributing members of the community through an event, volunteer project, or service. The DL Fire Department is a group of well-trained volunteers that work tirelessly to keep us all safe. From weekly training to community outreach, they are not only fighting fires and assisting in emergencies, they are helping us with preventative measures. Year-round, in all conditions, they answer the call. The Becker County Sheriff’s Auxiliary and DL Breakfast Rotary were also nominated.

Terry Eiter was given the Skipper Award, which acknowledges an individual’s leadership in their company or organization. In addition to many years of teaching and coaching, Eiter has made youth and athletics his own personal mission. His continued work to improve baseball programming and facilities is inspiring the community to swing for the fences. Pat Peterman and LuAnn Porter were also finalists for the award.

The Wave Award recognizes a current Detroit Lakes Chamber Member that sets an example for promoting and investing in the regional tourism and hospitality industry, and was given to Maplelag Resort. Owners Jay and Jonell Richards are excellent ambassadors to the Nordic Ski and biking community. They have built a business that helps people build memories. From weddings and retreats to high school biking and skiing competitions, they always create a magical experience. The DLCCC and J&K Marine were also finalists.

Tom Mack was recognized with the Beacon Award, which recognizes an individual who is a long-standing volunteer and repeat performer for their willingness to always step up, participate and lead. Tom has held leadership positions in the Lions Club, Becker County Food Pantry, and the DL Fire Department. He motivates and encourages others to give their time and talents. Cindy Cruflodt and Kathy Coyle were also nominated.

Midwest Bank was given the Lighthouse Award, which is given to a business that consistently shows its enduring commitment and long-standing service to the region. Midwest Bank has been helpful to local businesses, non-profits, and entrepreneurs who are looking to build their businesses in the area. From planting flowers to donating to fundraisers, Midwest Bank is committed to giving back to the community. Beautiful Junque and BTD Manufacturing were also nominated.

The Launch Award, which recognizes an individual in the community whose leadership, volunteerism, energy, and willingness to serve propels organizations and our community forward, was given to Viva Lowinger. Viva’s energy, enthusiasm, and heart are just a few examples of her leadership and commitment to our community. Her positivity radiates as she cheers for the good of the community. From Polar Fest to the DLHS School-to-Work program, she inspires others to step up and help. Kyle Meacham and Linda Norland were the other two finalists for the award.