The ADS Les Connell Medal is given to the dahlia cultivar that was introduced five years ago with the most awards (blue ribbons and higher) in the ensuing five-year period. For example, at the end of the 2019 growing season the Les Connell Medal would be awarded to the dahlia cultivar introduced in 2015 which has the most awards (blue ribbons and higher) in the five-year period from 2015 to 2019. Due to the time restriction for this Award it can only be won once.
On December 9th, 2020 a small group of members of the Washington State Dahlia Society (WSDS) and Puget Sound Dahlia Association (PSDA) presented the first Les Connell Medal to Vivian Connell at her home. It was not raining so the presentation was held outdoors with everyone smiling beneath their masks. Don Filand, WSDS, who spearheaded the efforts to create the Les Connell Medal, presented the first medal to Vivian.
The second Les Connell Medal was then presented to Colin Walker, PSDA, for his 2015 introduction – Kelsey Dwarf. ADS President Brad Freeman presented the medal to Colin.
Award Medal front
Award Medal back
Awards Ceremony
(left to right) Roger Walker, Colin Walker, Ken Walton, Rosemary Freeman, Brad Freeman, Marilyn Walton, Terry Schroeder, Don Filand, Lynnie Sperring
Don Filand presents award to Vivian Connell
Vivian with award
Vivian, Don, and Brad
Certificate of Award
President Brad presents award to Colin Walker
Colin with award
Recipients Vivian and Colin
Congratulations Vivian and Colin.
All photos by Bob Schroeder.