2008 Greater Lake Norman Blue Chip Awards Luncheon

Three small business owners who have overcome adversity to achieve success will be honored at a luncheon on Thursday, Oct. 16. One nominee will be awarded the 2008 Greater Lake Norman Blue Chip Community Business Award. The program is sponsored by Oswald Trippe and Company of the Carolinas to recognize successful small businesses and share their stories as models for other entrepreneurs. The awards luncheon, set for 11:30 a.m., Oct. 16, will be at The Charles Mack Citizen Center. For information, call 704-892-6411. This year?s distinguished nominees are: · Mike Pannell, Hickory Saw & Tool Inc., who overcame the loss of half of his clients to furniture manufacturers closings and moving overseas; · David Heafner, The Home Place Restaurant & Catering, who refused to let illness destroy his business; · Halina Genaro, The Landing Restaurant & Tiki Bar and Lake Norman Motel, overcame building issues and the death of her husband, Anthony. Independent judges will select one of the nominees for his or her drive, creativity and stamina in facing adversity and finding ways to rise above it. David DeNotaris, radio personality, author, world champion athlete, president of Sky?s the Limit Communications, will announce the winner during his keynote presentation at the luncheon. The Greater Lake Norman Blue Chip Community Business Award program is modeled after a regional program in Southwest Florida and has been coordinated by Oswald Trippe and Company since 1993.