Central Montana Times

Nominations are now open for the 2025 Paris Gibson Award in Great Falls, Montana. The award honors individuals who significantly impact the city and embody the vision and qualities of Paris Gibson, the city's founder.

Eligible nominees must currently reside in Great Falls, have made a significant impact on the city, demonstrated community leadership through volunteerism, and shown selflessness for the betterment of the community. Previous Paris Gibson Award winners will select the recipient.

The award includes a $500 check from Jimmy and Debbie Filipowicz of Steel Etc., which will be donated to a charity chosen by the winner. Additionally, the winner will receive a memorial tree from Tilleraas Nursery, a granite marker from Montana Granite, a winners plaque from Greg and Leanne Hall, a dinner for two at P. Gibson's Sports Grill, and a ride in a 1918 Model T Ford from Kurt Baltrusch of the Skunk Wagon Club during the Fourth of July Parade. The announcement of the winner will take place before the Great Falls Municipal Band Concert at Gibson Park on June 25 at 7:00 p.m.

Nomination forms are available at the Park and Recreation Office, located at 1700 River Drive North, or online. The deadline for entries is May 8, 2025. To inquire about the award, Megan Sanford can be contacted at 406-452-3462.

Previous winners of the Paris Gibson Award include 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), and Harold Spilde (2024).