Tahoe Chamber announces Blue Ribbon Award finalists

STATELINE, Nev. — The Tahoe Chamber has named the finalists for this year's Blue Ribbon Awards which recognize businesses and individuals who have made significant contributions to the South Tahoe community.

The awards ceremony is on Thursday, May 16, at the Tahoe Blue Event Center.

"Local businesses and organizations play a crucial role in enhancing the vibrancy of our community, serving both residents and visitors," said Chris Proctor, chairperson of the Tahoe Chamber. "It is important for us to acknowledge their contributions annually as a sign of our appreciation and support."

The finalists were chosen by the Tahoe Chamber Events Committee after nominees were selected by the community.

The 2024 award categories and finalists are (in no particular order):

Community Enrichment Award sponsored by Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe: A business, non-profit, or agency that has worked to improve the South Shore community.

Finalists: Labor Lodge Coalition, Live Violence Free, and Tahoe Paws.

Customer Service Award (Business) sponsored by Vail Resorts: An individual who is appreciated by the community for going above and beyond to offer the highest quality customer service.

Finalists: Zach and Taylor Shearer - Tahoe Star Charters, Chris Neira - Idle Hour and Tahoe Cruises, and Melissa Gibson-Taylor - Tahoe Bagel Company.

Innovation Award sponsored by Idle Hour: An innovative entrepreneur/ non-profit / business that has affected significant change in the community through a unique idea or the improvement upon one.

Finalists: David Wise - Tahoe STEM Academy, Chris McNamara - Outdoor Gear Lab, and Jenelle Sandy - Tahoe Family Hearing Clinic.

Excellence in Business sponsored by Azul & Base Camp Pizza: A business that exemplifies excellence in managing their enterprise. Has made substantial contributions to the overall good of business, and the economic well-being of the community. (Business must be established and in operation for at least three (3) years).

Finalists: Tube Tahoe, The Cork and More, and Anderson’s Bicycle Rental.

New Business of the Year sponsored by The Cork & More: A new business that has gained an increasingly positive reputation and who exhibits distinction. (Business must have been in operation for at least one (1) year and no more three (3) years).

Finalists: Cuppa Tahoe, Captain’s Corner & Pirate’s Chest, and Flatstick Pub.

Public Service (Public Agency) sponsored by South Tahoe Refuse: An individual who goes above and beyond to provide the community with support, to effect change and to benefit the overall quality of life in South Tahoe.

Finalists: Tom Boos - TRPA-AIS program manager, Michelle Schoneveld - City of South Lake Tahoe, and Pat Giardina - SLT Public Works.

Sustainable Tourism Award sponsored by Marriott Grand Residence: A business or organization that serves visitors while benefiting the community through education, sustainability, environmental stewardship and local practices.

Finalists: Keep Tahoe Blue (League to Save Lake Tahoe), Anderson’s Bicycle, and Bliss Experiences.

Volunteer of the Year Award sponsored by Pay it Forward Project: An individual dedicated to making a positive impact on the agency they serve and on the community at large.

Finalists: Paula Peterson, Wendy Jones, and Tahoe Toogee.

The awards ceremony, set to begin at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 16, at the Tahoe Blue Event Center promises an evening of celebration and networking opportunities with cocktails, a raffle, dinner, and recognition of community achievements. Attendees are invited to dress in theme colors and “shimmer”’ in sapphire and silver as they enjoy the night with signature Tahoe Blue Vodka cocktails and MCs, Jenay Aiksnoras & Mike Peron. The event is supported by media sponsors Tahoe Daily Tribune and Outside TV, with additional sponsorship from STAR, TBEC, Bally’s, Luna Lending, Barton, and The Landing.

The deadline to purchase tickets is Monday, May 13, so get your tickets soon.

Tickets can be purchased by visiting https://tahoechamber.org/blue-ribbon-awards/