Ray Masters rode in the Winnebago Bago Fest Parade recently. He will be inducted into the Hall of Fame on July 16.

Winnebago, a ‘small town with big heart,’ will continue its tradition of honoring treasured community members on Saturday, July 16.

That afternoon, the city of Winnebago and Winnebago Economic Development Authority (EDA) will proudly announce the latest inductee into the Winnebago Hall of Fame: Raymond Masters.

An open house reception in Masters’ honor will start at 2 p.m. in the Winnebago Municipal Center. The public is invited to attend and lend their support to Masters.

At 3 p.m., reception attendees will take a break from enjoying each others’ company and the delectable snacks to observe the presentation of Masters’ Hall of Fame award.

Following Masters’ official induction into the Hall of Fame, the festivities will resume until 4 p.m.

Winnebago’s Hall of Fame is a longstanding community ritual. The ceremony was instated for the purpose of recognizing Winnebago residents who have made a difference in the lives of their friends, family, neighbors and fellow community members, and who have shown unwavering dedication to the city of Winnebago itself.

The Winnebago EDA traditionally accepts nominations for the yearly award several months before a candidate is officially selected.

In reviewing nominations, the EDA looks for candidates who are willing volunteers and strong leaders within the community.

Masters, a lifelong resident of Winnebago, was nominated for the Winnebago Hall of Fame by mayor Scott Robertson several months ago.

His nomination was officially accepted at a Winnebago EDA meeting held on May 11.

When nominating Masters for the honor, Robertson noted Masters’ selfless contributions to the community and tireless efforts to keep the streets of Winnebago looking neat, clean and updated.

Indeed, Masters, a well-known presence around the town, can often be found mowing, shoveling or even picking up garbage as he makes his way through the streets of Winnebago.

“Ray has shown to the people in Winnebago what it is like to be a hard worker and to have a great work ethic,” Robertson stated on the nomination form.

Masters has also been involved in the Winnebago Lion’s Club for many years.

The city of Winnebago and Winnebago EDA look forward to celebrating Masters on July 16, and to upholding a beloved and unique community tradition.

As Winnebago City Council and EDA board member Jean Anderson said at an EDA meeting, “It’s important to show people who give back to the community they are important.”