2020 Pioneer Citizens announced

■ The annual Chamber Banquet is planned for Feb. 6.

The Siloam Springs Chamber of Commerce recently announced the identities of the 2020 Pioneer Citizens along with plans for the 90th annual Chamber banquet.

The next Pioneer Citizens will be Dick Bolen, Diane Winder and her late husband Larry Winder, who will receive the award posthumously, according to a press release from the Chamber. They will be recognized at the annual Chamber banquet scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6, at John Brown University’s Simmons Great Hall, the release states. Food will be catered by Edibles by Zoe.

During the event, current board chair Tyler Dees will pass the baton to incoming board chair James Barnett, the release states. The Chamber will also be recognizing some of Siloam Springs’ greatest volunteers and will present awards for the ambassador of the year and businesses of the year of all sizes, the release states.

Barnett has chosen a theme of “Better Together” for the 2020 banquet, the release states. He explained that Siloam Springs as a community is best when people of all ages, cultures, religions, and political views work together, rather than apart.

“During the year of 2020 the Siloam Springs Chamber of Commerce wants to bring focus to the importance of unity in our community and how we are truly so much better together,” the release states.

The Chamber of Commerce has been presenting Pioneer Citizen awards to community members who lead with their heart, face new challenges and pave the way for new frontiers since 1984, the release states. In order to be considered for the award by the Pioneer Citizen committee, nominees must be residents of Siloam Springs for at least 10 years, be at least 65 years old, and be heavily involved, past or present, in various activities or committees of the City of Siloam Springs, Main Street Siloam Springs, or the Chamber of Commerce.

Bolen has been a volunteer coach, board member for various organizations, served 14 years in the Siloam Springs School District adopter program, as president of St. Mary’s Catholic Church Parish Council and 10 years on the board of directors for the Sager Creek Arts Center, in addition to many other impressive accomplishments and involvements, the release states.

Both Diane and Larry Winder have played large roles in making the Sager Creek Arts Center what it is today, the release states. Larry was a founding member of the organization and they both worked diligently as actors of art and drama. Larry was a long-time Rotary member and on the board several times. Diane has been a dedicated pioneer leader in the local Hospital Auxiliary, serving as president and in many other positions, it states.

“All three of the Pioneer Citizen recipients are more than deserving to receive this award,” the release states. “They have all had a great impact on their families, friends, and the community of Siloam Springs.”

Tickets can be purchased on the Chamber of Commerce website under the events tab. For more information, visit siloamchamber.com or call 479-5246466.