TOURISM AWARD
"High energy," "dynamic," "infectious enthusiasm," "leaders by example," "the catalyst for transforming a small Montana community from a place viewed in 'shades of grey' to one sporting rainbows."

Those are some of the supporting comments for Regional Tourism Award recipients Shirley Beck and Dale Siegford. Anyone who has worked with these two people know that they definitely create a stream of activity...a wake of excitement that is irresistible. Their personal community spirit and pride has inspired not only their neightbors, but communities across the state that want to do what they have done.

Philipsburg, Montana, is that former grey community that is now heralded as one of the nation's 5 "Prettiest Painted Places" by a national paint institute. There are newly installed vintage street lamps along Philipsburg's downtown. There is a community website, an advertising plan, renovation has put their historic operal hall back in business...there is activity all around town.

AND, there is the Sapphire Gallery and The Sweet Palace. These are the example-setting businesses developed by Shirley Beck and Dale Siegford. Shirley and Dale have led by example - they have been the dynamic duo who have inspired and encouraged their community AND provided the elbow grease to help get all these great things done. Congratulations to these two "gems" from Philipsburg - Shirley Beck and Dale Siegford, recipients of a regional tourism award.