Visit Cook County Fall Gala honors local business and hospitality community

Each year Visit Cook County holds a Fall Gala at which they recognize members of the local business community and the many community members working in the hospitality industry. The evening includes awards presented for exceptional service and participation in Cook County’s robust local business community.

At the 2024 Fall Gala held on Oct. 24 at the Grand Portage Lodge and Casino, the Cook County Chamber of Commerce announced the following awards:

Heart of Hospitality

• Grand Marais Area Tourism – Daryl Bathke, Jerry Kohl (tie)
• Gunflint Trail Association – Stacey Palmer
• Lutsen – Tofte – Schroeder Tourism Association – Dakota Marshall
• Grand Portage – Jessica Smith

Chamber Business of the Year

• Joynes Ben Franklin

Chamber Business Leader of the Year

• Abby Tofte
• Jim Vick

Entrepreneur of the Year

• Hana Crosby

Norman Deshampe Award

• Donna Lunke

Congratulations to all of this year’s nominees and winners!

Kirsten Wisniewski October 25, 2024