Kalispell Chamber’s 44th Great Chief Award applications due October 2

Chamber encourages community nominations for 44th Great Chief, Businessman, and Businesswoman of the Year Awards

Kalispell, Mont. (Sept. 8, 2015)–The Kalispell Chamber of Commerce announced that nominations for the 44th Great Chief are now underway. The Great Chief is one of the highest honors bestowed by the Chamber, given to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional civic and volunteerism over a lifetime.

The Chamber is also calling for Businessman and Businesswoman of the Year nominations. The Businessman and Businesswoman of the Year awards are given to exceptional business owners and managers who have made a positive contribution to the local economy. The applicants should practice outstanding management or business practices with their customers and maintain respect among their peers and community.

The 43nd Great Chief Award was given to Duane and Bev Larson, a husband-and-wife duo who have served the community through constant public service and volunteer efforts from more than 60 years.

Mark Blasdel was named as the 2014 Businessman of the Year for his management of Vista Linda Restaurant, commitment to the community, and legislative leadership in the Montana House of Representatives.

The 2014 Businesswoman of the Year award was bestowed upon Karen Cramer who owns Beckman’s Fine Furnishings with location in downtown Kalispell and Whitefish. She also serves on the board of directors of the Kalispell Downtown Business Improvement District.

The community is encouraged to nominate individuals who have cultivated success and provided a lasting legacy for the Flathead Valley. The nomination deadline is Friday, October 2. Award announcements will be held at the Chamber’s annual banquet and auction on November 12.

Nomination forms are available from the Kalispell Chamber and online at http://www.kalispellchamber.com/programs-events/annual-banquet.

Forms may be mailed or dropped off at the Chamber at 15 Depot Park. Applications can also be emailed to [email protected].

About the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitor’s Bureau

Since 1904, the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce, Convention, and Visitor’s Bureau has been a leading voice in strengthening our community and the business climate in order to make Kalispell and the Flathead Valley an ideal location to live and work. The Chamber consists of 700 businesses and organizations that employ over half of the workforce in Flathead, County, Montana.