Nominations are now open for the 14th annual Paris Gibson Award, named for the founder of Great Falls.

The award was established to honor the citizen who best embodies the vision and excellence exemplified by Paris Gibson.

Van Tighem selected for 2023 Paris Gibson Award

To be eligible for the award, selected by previous Paris Gibson Award winners, a nominee must meet the following criteria:

• be a current Great Falls resident
• have made a significant impact to the city
• have provided leadership for the community through volunteerism
• have performed selfless action for the betterment of the community

The award winner will receive a $500 check provided by Jimmy and Debbie Filipowicz of Steel Etc., to be donated to a charity of the winner’s choice; memorial tree donated by Tilleraas Nursery and granite marker provided by Montana Granite; a winners plaque, donated by Greg and Leanne Hall; a dinner for two at P. Gibson’s, donated by P. Gibson’s Sports Grill; and a ride in a 1918 Model T Ford provided by Kurt Baltrusch of the Skunk Wagon Club in the Fourth of July Parade.

Bud Nicholls is 2022 Paris Gibson Award winner

The winner will be announced before the Great Falls Municipal Band Concert at 7 p.m. June 26 in the Mansfield Convention Center.

Nomination forms are available at the Park and Recreation Office, 1700 River Drive North or online.

Deadline for entries is May 3.

Prior winners are:

• Doug Wicks, 2010
• Norma Ashby, 2011
• Greg Hall, 2012
• Ian and Nancy Davidson, 2013
• Gene Thayer, 2014
• Bill and Joan-Nell Macfadden, 2015
• Arlyne Reichert, 2016
• Sheila Rice, 2017
• Brad Talcott and Linda Caricaburu, 2018
• Chuck and Gerry Jennings, 2019
• Judy Ericksen, 2020
• David and Tanya Cameron, 2021
• Bud Nicholls, 2022
• Kathy Van Tighem, 2023.

For questions about the award, contact Megan Sanford, 406-452-3462.