By Shane Goodman | Lake Panorama Times
Panora Mayor Curtis Thornberry presents the 2025 Panora Citizen of the Year award to JoAnn Johnson on Saturday in the gazebo during Panorama Days.
Johnson received at least seven nomination letters from various members of the community for her numerous contributions including being a volunteer driver for the Guthrie County Hospital, a Rural Improvement Zone (RIZ) board member, a member of the Panora and Lake Panorama Economic Development group, a member of the the Guthrie County Foundation Board, a member of Women’s Ten Squared and a co-chair for the Panora Garden Club.
One nominator noted how JoAnn is one of the most influential people he has ever met.
“She has inspired so many people to make the most of what you have. Her talent has been shown throughout the Panora community. She is the first person to speak up, step up and follows through till the job is done.”
Another wrote how JoAnn is an outstanding leader who has contributed to the betterment of Panora, Lake Panorama and Guthrie County.
“I have had the privilege of knowing JoAnn for nearly two decades. Throughout the course of our friendship, I have always been impressed by how JoAnn inspires others to join her in her volunteer pursuits. … I appreciate how JoAnn encourages the next generation of leaders in our community. … JoAnn has always been someone who supported and encouraged me. She is someone who I knew would give me an honest opinion and offer me her support to navigate whatever challenge laid ahead.”
A third nomination letter stated how JoAnn’s love for Guthrie County is evident in every project she undertakes.
“Her tireless advocacy at both a state and local level, collaborative spirit and ability to inspire others make her a true role model. She approaches every challenge with compassion, determination and a genuine desire to uplift those around her, embodying the qualities of an exceptional citizen. … JoAnn has been a pillar of public service in our community for many years, consistently demonstrating her passion for improving the lives of those around her. She has tirelessly advocated for the people of Guthrie County with a deep sense of care and responsibility. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on our community, fostering growth, unity and pride. Additionally, JoAnn has taken a leadership role within the Panora Garden Club, where her vision and hard work has helped transformed Panora’s Main Street into a vibrant, beautiful space that residents and visitors cherish. Her efforts in beautifying the town reflect her commitment to creating a welcoming and aesthetically pleasing environment, boosting community pride and local business.”
Yet another nominator said, “Look at the pretty pink flowers around Panora! JoAnn was instrumental in getting that project rolling. The Panora Garden Club has many members and others have also played a vital role, but Joann’s leadership paved the way. This beautification project has enhanced Panora in such a beautiful, positive way. … JoAnn has volunteered her time in more ways than I know. Her proactive spirit, kindness and advocacy demonstrate why she is a deserving candidate for Panora’s 2025 Citizen of the Year, embodying the qualities of a true community leader and encourager.”
Another nominator noted how JoAnn leads by example.
“She does not seek the spotlight, yet her work shines throughout the Panora area — in the lives she touches, the policies she helps shape, and the landscapes she helps beautify. Her integrity, energy and compassion make her a pillar of our community.”
The criteria for citizen of the year included:
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.
Previous Citizen of the Year winners:
1989 Kass Duis
1990 Galen Bymer
1991 Duane Miller
1992 Mary Beidelman
1993 Mary Jones
1994 Hugh & 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 & Ellen Campbell
2023 Kirby Klinge
2024 Matt Harmann