Missoula Downtown Association Announces Award Winners, Celebrates 50 Years
MISSOULA DOWNTOWN ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES AWARD WINNERS, CELEBRATES 50 YEARS
The Missoula Downtown Association (MDA) celebrated its 50th Anniversary while honoring outstanding businesses, individuals, and organizations at the Annual Meeting on January 30 at the Holiday Inn Downtown.
Charlie Beaton, owner of Big Dipper Ice Cream, received the prestigious Dan Cederberg Downtowner of the Year Award. Since founding Big Dipper in 1995, Beaton has been a cornerstone of Downtown Missoula, not only for his business but also for his leadership and community service. Beaton has served on the Business Improvement District (BID) Board since 2007 and as Board President since 2020. Other commendable nominees were Sophia Etier of the University of Montana and Ann Karp of Sideways Gaze.
Paige Livingston, owner of One Eleven Boutique, was named Board Member of the Year for her seven years of dedicated service to the MDA Board. Livingston continues to elevate Downtown Missoula through her leadership and passion for the community. The other nominees were Joan Redeen (Montana Department of Transportation) and Karen Sippy (Allez! and BID Board).
The Committee Member of the Year was awarded to Jamie Mitchell of Dick Anderson Construction for her contributions to the MDA Membership Committee and the Barbeque Committee. Her enthusiasm and dedication were further recognized as she was officially appointed to the MDA Board. Bailey Durnell (Missoula Makers Collective) was also nominated for Committee Member of the Year for her contributions to Holidays on Higgins.
Jasmine Decelles, Sales Manager at Residence Inn/AC Hotel claimed the Volunteer of the Year Award for her unwavering commitment to supporting MDA events and Downtown initiatives like painting the Beartracks Underbridge Playground. Joe Beatty of MCPS was also recognized for his service to the Downtown ToNight summer series.
The Downtown Employee of the Year was awarded to Brian Hensel, City of Missoula Public Works Deputy Director for his behind-the-scenes dedication to maintaining Downtown Missoula’s infrastructure and paving of Caras Drive in 2024. The other nominee was Jeff Overturf (A Carousel for Missoula).
Lastly, Cranky Sam Public House was awarded Downtown Business of the Year. From hosting live music and trivia nights to collaborating with the University of Montana archaeology department and supporting Unseen Missoula programming, Cranky Sam has become a cornerstone of Downtown vitality. Worden’s Market & Deli and Radius Gallery were also nominated and honored for Downtown Business of the Year.
Founded in 1975, the MDA represents a vibrant network of 550 business members, united by the commitment to promoting, supporting, and enhancing the vitality of Downtown Missoula. The annual awards program was established in 1986 and has grown over the years to six distinct awards.
“Downtown Missoula thrives on connection, made possible by the incredible people and businesses that call it home,” said incoming MDA Board President Katie Ghen Simpson of Bathing Beauties Beads. “These awards celebrate the dedication, creativity, and passion that shape Downtown into a vibrant, welcoming community.” She added, “As we look ahead, we’re excited to build on this legacy, ensuring another 50 years of smart growth, energy, and opportunity for all.”
In addition to the annual Downtown Awards, the general membership elected Jamie Mitchell from DAC to the MDA Board and ratified the following individuals as MDA Officers for 2025:
- Katie Ghen Simpson….. Owner of Bathing Beauties Beads……………………………………… President
- Bryan Hickey……………. President of Big Dipper Ice Cream……………………………………… VP: Advocacy
- Matt Mellott……………. Owner & Advisor, Sterling Commercial Real Estate Advisors……. VP: Marketing
- Ellen Buchanan………… Director, Missoula Redevelopment Agency…………………………. VP: DT Master Plan
- Paige Livingston……….. Owner of One Eleven Boutique…………………………………………. VP: Membership
- Conor Newman………… CPA, Boyle, Devany & Meyer……………………………………………. Treasurer
- Jed Liston………………… Consultant, Best Practice Solutions……………………………………. Past President
One special highlight of the evening included Dick Anderson Construction’s presentation of a $50,000 gift to the Missoula Downtown Foundation, launching the Caras Campaign for the 2025 replacement of the pavilion canopy. DAC is also celebrating its 50th year as a statewide business, alongside the MDA. The gift comes from the company’s desire to support community projects that benefit everyone.
“This lead gift from Dick Anderson Construction provides a strong foundation for our $500,000 fundraising campaign for the replacement of the Caras Park canopy,” said Rob Fleming, incoming MDF President. “Caras Park is the heartbeat of Downtown Missoula, hosting countless events and gatherings. This investment ensures we can maintain and enhance this space for future generations, and we’re excited to engage the community in making it happen.”
For more information on the Downtown Awards Program or to schedule an interview, contact the Downtown Missoula Partnership via phone (406-543-4238) or email ([email protected]).