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Grand Canyon Historical Society nominates Don Lago for 2014 Pioneer award

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. - The Grand Canyon Historical Society (GCHS) has nominated Don Lago for the 2014 Pioneer Award.

The Grand Canyon Historical Society presents the Pioneer Award to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the understanding of, and knowledge about, the Grand Canyon of the Colorado River. The historical society will present the award at its GCHS Annual Picnic on July 19 at the South Rim.

According to the society, Lago's nomination stems from his commitment for almost single handedly keeping the "Ol' Pioneer" magazine going for five years now, in the absence of other submissions from other GCHS members. His contributions are original and contain new research into largely unknown stories.

"After all that has been written about Canyon history, this can be a challenge," GCHS President Wayne Ranney said. "We are very proud of Don and his work to promote the history of Grand Canyon."

Many of Lago's stories may be considered obscure, but some are also significant, like the Apollo astronauts hiking in the canyon.

He has run into some of these stories in the course of looking through various neglected sources on Canyon history. These have been collected in his book from the University of Utah Press, which is a feather in the cap of the GCHS, as they have now generated a whole book of original research deemed worthy of a scholarly publisher.

Richard Quartaroli, a well-known and highly respected river guide and historical enthusiast, was last year's award recipient.

The GCHS was established in 1984 and works to promote the study and preservation of Grand Canyon's cultural and natural history. With about 300 active members, the GCHS is best known for its highly successful History Symposiums held at Grand Canyon National Park in 2002, 2007 and 2012.

The society is a membership organization with strong ties to Grand Canyon National Park and its human and natural history. Interested parties can learn more at the Society's web site: www.grandcanyonhistory.org. 


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