Laura Jeanes - Making a Difference in Lamoni
Gary Rees on May 23, 2024
Launch the media gallery 1 player(Pictured: Laura Jeanes shows off Lamoni Making a Difference Award and commemorative city hall silk screen presented by Community Center / Recreation Director Tim Brunner at the 2024 Lamoni Community School Spring Sports Banquet.)
Although she is often at the center of attention, identifying her can be challenging. As an umpire, everyone notices her, but her mask conceals her identity. However, at the Lamoni Community School Spring Sports Banquet last week, Laura Jeanes' mask was off, and she was honored with the inaugural Lamoni Making a Difference Award for her long-standing dedication to the community.
Jeanes received a plaque and commemorative framed silk screen of city hall. The plaque read: “… in recognition of the time, many contributions and faithful service to the Parks and Recreation Commission, to the youth of Lamoni, and the community as a whole.” "Laura Jeanes has dedicated her life to athletics. When she hung up her cleats from a long, prestigious career of her own, she put on the black and white and led the next few decades as a referee / umpire / and coach," Community Center / Recreation Director Tim Brunner said when presenting the award.
The Making a Difference Award, established and overseen by the Lamoni City Council, recognizes individuals or businesses whose significant contributions have helped Lamoni thrive highlighting their hard work and commitment. The program's objectives are to inspire community involvement, promote positive change, and foster a sense of pride within Lamoni. Recognitions can be awarded at any time throughout the year, and the initiative encourages active participation from the entire community.
"Laura is an ideal person to receive the Making a Difference award because she epitomizes everything the award is meant to recognize," Lamoni Mayor Doug Foster said. "Her daily interaction with Lamoni youth and programs has made the difference in the activities available, and her example has inspired countless others to step up and participate. I congratulate Laura on receiving this award and would note that it is long overdue."