Jeff Bump, who served as the secretary for The Panora and Lake Panorama Economic Development Group for many years, was presented an appreciation plaque by 2026 President John Rutlege for his years of service.
John Rutledge presents an appreciate plaque to the 2025 president, Julie Dent-Zajicek.
By Shane Goodman | Times Vedette
The Panora and Lake Panorama Economic Development Group met on Wednesday, Nov. 5 at Panorama High School. This was the annual meeting for the group, which meant the passing of the gavel of the president. John Rutledge was named to the position for 2026, replacing the 2025 president, Julie Dent-Zajicek.
The Panora and Lake Panorama Area Economic Development group serves as the principal economic development organization in the Panora and Lake Panorama area. The group traces its roots in Panora to the 1980s and even earlier, beginning as an informal group of business leaders looking to attract, support and grow area businesses and promote housing.
In 1987, the corporation was called Panora Economic Development Corporation and was formed as a for-profit corporation. A new corporation was formed in 2000 as a nonprofit. Today, the organization is comprised of business and community leaders from Panora, Lake Panorama and the surrounding area.