The Board of Directors of the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce, meeting at its recent summer planning retreat, voted unanimous approval to award Marlene Duffy Young posthumous Banker’s Cup recognition. Young, a former Winter Haven Mayor and Polk County Commissioner, died as the result of an automobile accident earlier this year.
The Board, mindful of an 85-year tradition of only accepting nominations for living individuals, was moved to action by the overwhelming outpouring of admiration for Young’s exemplary life well lived. Much of her civic activism was accomplished quietly but passionately and never for personal gain — hallmarks of what Banker’s Cup recognition is based upon.
The special award will be presented to Young’s family at the Chamber’s September 11 Annual Meeting at Lake Ashton Ballroom. In that way the traditional nomination process can remain intact while allowing a very deserving citizen to receive the recognition she never sought but richly deserved.
A wonderful tribute, to a much-missed lady.
An excellent decision by the Board.
What a wonderful gesture and very much deserved.
I commend the Board for this decision. Marlene was the heart and soul of this community!
Better late than never – it is well deserved and very fittting to the meaning of the award. She will be long remembered.
I commend the Board for a superb decision.
Marlene was a great lady and touched many lives.
I, too, miss Marlene and commend the board for its decision to honor her with the Banker’s Cup. Marlene’s legacy to the community will continue as an inspiration to us all.