Community Recognition Awards

Once a year the Greater Minocqua Area Visitors Bureau recognizes the accomplishments of our partners, non-profit organizations, and area businesses. Nominations are considered for the following awards: Business of the Year, Shining Star/Non-Profit of the Year, Community Spirit Award, Citizen of the Year Award, and Outstanding Emerging Business. This year, we would like to recognize our businesses at our Annual Dinner held on May 7th, 2025 to present the awards and thank our nominees for participating in and supporting the organization and communities of Minocqua, Woodruff, Arbor Vitae, & Hazelhurst.

Award Categories

Business of the Year is presented to the business that has demonstrated innovative economic and business growth, provides dedication to customer service, and is active in the community.

Shining Star/Non-Profit of the Year is presented to a service organization or public institution that provides dedication to community service and leadership and develops innovative programs to serve the community over time.

Community Spirit Award recognizes an organization or individual that is dedicated to helping others or an organization that’s leading an initiative/program focused on making a positive impact in the Lakeland Area.

Citizen of the Year Award recognizes someone whose work, community service, and involvement demonstrate what it is to be a good citizen.

Outstanding Emerging Business recognizes a small business that has contributed to our region’s economic vitality and demonstrated revenue growth and staying power. The business must have operated for less than five years.

Thank you to everyone that attended our 2024 Annual Dinner at the Campanile Center for the Arts. It was a great evening to recognize & celebrate so many amazing people doing great work in our communities. The winners of this 2024 Community Recognition Awards are:

Business of the Year: The Bottled Bean

Shining Star/Non-Profit of the Year: Lakeland area GFWC - Northwoods District

Community Spirit Award: Will Jeffery- American Pond Hockey

Outstanding Emerging Business: Cafe Sonder Minocqua

Citizen of the Year: Debbie Rohowetz

Let's Minocqua Champion: John Eppes