Pinecrest Pioneers Holiday Luncheon
Published on December 07, 2024
In the heart of Pinecrest where a verdant canopy provides shade to sun-drenched streets, a special gathering takes place twice a year honoring Pinecrest Pioneers - Village residents 80 years old and up.
Pinecrest Pioneers witnessed Pinecrest’s transformation from a quiet wilderness to a thriving community.
“This is one of the most remarkable events the Village hosts because it serves an incredibly special demographic of our community,” said Mayor Joseph M. Corradino. “It’s a living testament to our history, as many of the early residents can share memories of when Pinecrest was mostly agricultural land and had an airstrip, long before it became an incorporated Village in 1996.”
The Village honors the pioneer’s legacy twice yearly in the spring and holiday seasons. The 2024 holiday luncheon was held in December at Leslie Bowe Hall in Evelyn Greer Park. Pinecrest Pioneers, their families, elected officials, Pinecrest Garden Club volunteers, and staff filled the hall. Carolers rounded out the festive Friday afternoon with holiday music.
The Pinecrest Pioneers Luncheon was initiated by former Mayor Cindy Lerner after meeting Village resident Joyce Diehl, who was 89 and still mowing her lawn. Awed by the treasure trove of knowledge Diehl experienced and recounted, Lerner sought out other residents who were 80+ and began to celebrate their lives through the Pinecrest Pioneers Luncheon.
The first luncheon held in 2010 celebrated Diehl’s 90th birthday.
“One of my favorite events each year is our Pinecrest Pioneers Luncheon, a tradition which I was inspired to initiate in 2009 to honor and celebrate our elders, share long-held friendships and love for our Village,” said Lerner.
“The families who initially moved into Pinecrest 40, 50, or more years ago helped inspire a sense of pride and commitment to our community and deeply appreciate that we bring them together twice a year. You can see and feel the warmth and joy of living in Pinecrest as we age gracefully in place. It’s part of our legacy.”
More than a decade later, the Village continues to honor those whose resilience and love remind us that every story shared adds another thread to the rich tapestry of their beloved community.