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September 9, 2009 Andy Lisak

715.392.4749

Four Entrepreneurs who have had a significant impact on the economy of Superior and Douglas County will be inducted into the Superior Business Hall of Fame during the Superior Business Awards luncheon to be held on September 17 (11:30 am –1:30 pm) at Barker’s Island Inn.

The inductees are: Captain Alexander McDougall, Harry A. Lurye, William D Vinje and Albert J. Amatuzio. (Biographies are attached)

"What an extraordinary group of individuals to induct into the Superior Business Hall of Fame," stated Andy Lisak, Executive Director of the Development Association. "Each of these men represents an important part of Superior /Douglas County’s economy and heritage."

"From Alexander McDougall of Whaleback fame, to Harry Lurye, an immigrant from Russia who started a shop in downtown Superior that still bears his name, to Bill Vinje of Halvor Lines whose company has become one of the largest employers in Douglas County, to Al Amatuzio who started and developed that sensational company we know as AMSOIL, this class of men is truly Superior," Lisak continued.

"Superior and Douglas County have a rich tradition of successful businesses and entrepreneurs," stated Kaye Tenerelli, Executive Director of the Superior Business Improvement District. "The Superior Business Hall of Fame enables our community to honor both historical and active entrepreneurs that have contributed to that tradition." Tenerelli continued. McDougall, Lurye and Vinje will be inducted posthumously.

"As the oldest business member organization in Superior/Douglas County, the Chamber is honored to participate with our partners in rolling out the first ever Superior Business Hall of Fame," stated David Minor, President/CEO of the Chamber.

"As we work with aspiring entrepreneurs in Douglas County and throughout the Northland, it is important that these entrepreneurs be able to look to successful business people as role models to emulate," stated Shawn Wellnitz, Director of Business Development for the Northeast

Entrepreneur Fund. "The Superior Hall of Fame will formally recognize these role models." Wellnitz said.