Don Davis named grand marshal of annual Loon Lake Independence Day boat parade
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Don Davis, at center above, was selected as the first-ever grand marshal of the annual Loon Lake Independence Day boat parade. From left above is Davis' wife, Nancy, grandson Ian Wakley and daughter Suzanne Wakley. The boat parade has been a tradition at the lake for many years.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
On Saturday morning, a long-time supporter of the Loon Lake community was recognized for years of service with a newly designated honor.
The Loon Lake Property Owners Association chose Don Davis as the first-ever grand marshal of the annual Independence Day Boat Parade on Loon Lake, slated for Saturday, July 2, at 4 p.m. At that time, Davis will lead an entourage of decorated boats around the lake and parade watchers will have an opportunity to pick their favorites and call in their votes.
The parade is one of several activities going on at the lake that day, including a 5.5K race around the lake, pancake and sausage breakfast, sailboat race and fireworks show in the evening.
Davis was appointed as a board member of the LLPOA in 1991 and has faithfully served the board many times over the years. He was elected board vice president from 1992 to 1994 and served as board president from 1997 to 1999.
Davis has personally spearheaded numerous initiatives in the lake community over the years, many of which are continued today.
After learning that the lake's water quality was fading fast, Davis began research into a public sewer project for lake residents. The sewer project was completed in 2001, ending years of septic leaching into the lake and making fast improvement in the lake's health.
Davis also worked with the Whitley County Community Foundation to begin a Loon Lake Conservation Fund, an endowment fund built and dedicated to future lake enhancement projects, including the construction of sediment ponds to help filter the lake.
Understanding the benefits of non-profit status, Davis was instrumental in achieving 501c3 tax status for the LLPOA, which not only aided the scope of projects the organization could participate in, but it was also key in furthering lake enhancement initiatives.
A lake resident for many years, Davis was also keenly aware of the importance of making lake life fun and enjoyable for children -- even children who don't live at the lake. For that reason, he founded the lake's first Kids Fishing contest, an event that has evolved into an annual event. Davis donated a rod and reel for participating children the first year.
He has been lauded for spearheading numerous other fundraising and activities that have enhanced life in the Loon Lake community.