Special to the Times Vedette

The Panora Chamber of Commerce has recognized an outstanding member of the Panora/Lake Panorama community since 1989. The year 2020 was the only year the recognition did not take place.

Criteria for Citizen of the Year:

  • Any service performed for the betterment of Panora that the nominator deems worthy.
  • No restrictions on the number of years a person can be nominated.
  • Winners cannot be considered again for 10 years.
  • Nominees must be a citizen of Panora or Lake Panorama.
  • Nominees must be nominated in writing, signed by the nominator.

Paid city employees are eligible, but their nomination must not be for their regular duties.

The following statement applies to all nominees: Anyone who works for the promotion and betterment of our community rather than excellence in profession or job.

Nominations must be received by July 12, 2024.  Mail nomination letters to the Panora Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 73, Panora, IA 50216.

The 2024 Citizen of the Year will be announced at Panorama Days, Aug. 3 after the parade.

Past winners

  • 1989    Kass Duis
  • 1990    Galen Bymer
  • 1991    Duane Miller
  • 1992    Mary Beidelman
  • 1993    Mary Jones
  • 1994    Hugh and Merna Teale
  • 1995    Dave Arganbright
  • 1996    Ron Reynolds
  • 1997    John Dungan
  • 1998    Dale Grotjohn
  • 1999    Cheryl Castile
  • 2000    Frank Teale
  • 2001    Dave Olson
  • 2002    Carolyn England
  • 2003    Pat Finnegan
  • 2004    Julie Dent-Zajicek
  • 2005    Dave Beidelman
  • 2006    Judy Contner
  • 2007    Chris Arganbright
  • 2008    Vickie Ditsworth
  • 2009    Barb Wollner
  • 2010    Bette Donahey
  • 2011    Joan Allen
  • 2012    MJ Brown
  • 2013    Karen Sievers
  • 2014    Joe Scheiring
  • 2015    John Rutledge
  • 2016    Josh Arganbright
  • 2017    Curtis Thornberry
  • 2018    Jaime Waddle
  • 2019    Bill and Connie Ridgley
  • 2020    COVID YEAR (NONE)
  • 2021    Chaille Crandall
  • 2022    Tom and Ellen Campbell
  • 2023    Kirby Klinge