The Billings Chamber of Commerce announced that Ziggy and Stella Ziegler are the 2019 Legacy Award honorees. The Ziegler’s long history in Billings displays their dedication to business, philanthropy, and the community, said the announcement.

Ziggy and Stella invested over 40 years in their downtown establishment, Stella’s Kitchen and Bakery and retired officially in August.

The Billings Chamber Legacy Award recognizes individuals who consistently demonstrate success in improving the business and economic climate, in addition to the quality of life for residents of Billings over their lifetime. Through their consistent advocacy for downtown, their habit of offering second chances and their determination to change lives, they changed the fabric of Billings.

The Zieglers will be honored at the 2019 Billings Chamber Annual Meeting presented by PayneWest Insurance on September 24.

When asked about iconic Billings establishments, you can bet that Stella’s Kitchen and Bakery will be one of the examples shared – and with good reason.

Even after 40 years, to this day you’ll find a line out the door to get seated for weekend breakfast.

Stella and Ziggy retired in August.

They were nominated for the award by Eide Bailly and its Partners Jeremy Hauk, Roger Huebner, Ron Yates, and Debbie Potter, the group noted, “Stella and Ziggy are well known for hiring disadvantaged people and providing not only a job, but mentorship, a family atmosphere, and a positive influence. They give second chances and first opportunities to so many in need. They have changed lives by giving more than a paycheck, but by giving life lessons and true love.”

Prior to starting their restaurant, the Ziegler’s owned KOA and Great Harvest Bread franchises. In addition to their many business successes, they are loyal to their mission of giving second chances and offering guidance to those transitioning out of prison and halfway houses. Ziggy is well-known for his work with prison inmates where he developed a three-day retreat to minister to inmates; something he done almost monthly for 40 years. As quoted in the Billings Gazette, Ziggy says, “I don’t golf, I don’t fish, I don’t hunt. I go to prison!”

To add to their resume of service leadership, Ziggy was Yellowstone County Auditor for four years and Yellowstone County Commissioner for 12 years.  Stella has served on various community and state-wide boards and leadership committees. The couple is committed to their faith and to education, serving on the Billings Catholic Schools and BACET/BCS Foundation boards. They were instrumental in building the new St. Francis Catholic Elementary School, serving as honorary chairs of the capital campaign.

The Ziegler’s were nominated for the Billings Chamber Legacy Award, along with a long list of competitive candidates. The Eide Bailly team summarized the selection of the Ziegler’s for the 2019 Legacy Award stating, “Ziggy and Stella are a tremendous business success story. However, their success and contributions reach far beyond that of the business world. They have made unbelievable monetary and sweat-equity investments in Billings while donating their time and talents to the community as a whole. Along the way, they have made a difference in the lives of many. They have left a legacy that is truly worthy of recognition.”