Communication Builds Our Community

Nominations Sought for Pioneer of the Year

Who will be the next "Pioneer of the Year?" That's a honor you may have a hand in deciding.

The annual honor of Pioneer of the Year has been a highlight of the two-day Pioneer Days festival in Lake Wales since Morris Jones won the honor in 1978. Now it's time for the community to step forward to nominate another honoree.

The award is bestowed by the Lake Wales History Museum, which has announced the commencement of nominations for the 2023 award. This accolade celebrates individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the Lake Wales community and enhanced its quality of life for over half a century. Residents are invited to nominate fellow community members who have resided in Lake Wales for more than 50 years and have left an indelible mark through their service, passion, and commitment.

The Pioneer of the Year Award is a tribute to the unsung heroes who have not only witnessed but actively contributed to the transformation of Lake Wales. The Pioneer Days festival will take place in Lake Wailes Park on October 28 and 29.

"We believe that the Pioneer of the Year Award is not just recognition of an individual, but a celebration of the collective spirit that has made Lake Wales a vibrant community," said Brandon Alvarado, President of the Board of Directors for the Lake Wales History Museum. "It's an honor to provide a platform for the community to come together and acknowledge the exceptional contributions of our fellow residents."

Nominators are asked to submit narratives outlining the exceptional contributions made by their nominees. These narratives, which should be up to 500 words and offer a unique opportunity to recognize the nominee's enduring impact on the community. Nominators are asked to provide at least three high-resolution images that showcase the nominee's involvement and dedication to the community over the years.

The deadline for nominations is Friday, September 15, 2023, at 5:00 PM. Nominations can be submitted via email to [email protected] with the Subject Line: "Pioneer of the Year Nomination," delivered in person, or mailed to the Lake Wales History Museum located at 325 South Scenic Highway, Lake Wales, Florida 33853.

The award will be presented at the Pioneer Hour ceremony on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at the annual Pioneer Days Festival. The special 10:00 am observance begins with the ringing of the "Tillman bell" which was once used at the original Lake Wales public school.

The Lake Wales History Museum invites everyone to participate by submitting nominations and joining in the celebration of Lake Wales' remarkable pioneers. For further details on how to submit a nomination or to learn more about the Pioneer of the Year Award, please visit the Lake Wales History Museum website.

 

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