MSCVB honors local businesses

Several local tourism businesses and individuals were honored by the Mat-Su Convention & Visitors Bureau Nov. 18 during the organization’s annual Stars of the Industry luncheon.

The Cheechako Award honors a new tourism business or organization that has thrived in is early years. This year, Skeetawk Ski Area was honored after their first two successful winters of operation. The non-profit organization is currently expanding and expects to have night skiing available this winter for the first time ever.

The Northern Lights Award honors a community in the Mat-Su Borough that has outstanding tourism promotion and development. This year, the Willow Area Community Organization won the award for their promotion of Willow as a year-round destination, along with running the Willow Winter Carnival.

The Gold Star Award recognizes a business or organization that has made a significant contribution to the tourism industry. The Alaska Railroad was this year’s winner, for their efforts in connecting communities, expanding winter operations, partnering with local businesses and providing an elite visitor experience.

Mark Fleenor of Sheep Mountain Lodge was the recipient of the Tourism Angel Award. Fleenor served as the Mat-Su CVB Board Chair for three years, leading the organization during the pandemic. Under his leadership, the Mat-Su CVB received national recognition for marketing efforts, as well as secured an EDA grant for the completion of the Gateway Visitor Center.

Two Spirit of Tourism Awards were given out during the luncheon. The first was a memorial for Chuck Spaulding of Nova Alaska River Guides. Spaulding was a pioneer in the local tourism industry and passed away in 2021. The second Spirt of Tourism Award went to former Mat-Su Borough Mayor Vern Halter, for all of his contributions and support for the tourism industry.