The Tempe History Society will pay tribute to six Tempe “legends” in April, honoring both living and historic members of the community who have made a difference in some way.
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History
Tempe ‘legends’ to be honored April 13
Courtesy City of Tempe
Tempe History Society will honor six Tempe "legends" on April 13 at the annual Tempe Legends Gala Reception.
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Tempe History Museum 809 E Southern Ave Tempe, AZ 85282
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The Tempe History Society will pay tribute to six Tempe “legends” in April, honoring both living and historic members of the community who have made a difference in some way.
Honorees will receive recognition at the annual Tempe Legends Gala Reception on Saturday, April 13, 6-8 p.m. at the Tempe History Museum plaza, a city release explained.
Among this year’s legends are a Tempe musician, local educators and community advocates.
2024 Living Legends
Hans Olson – A well-known, multi-talented Tempe musician and founder of the Arizona Blues Hall of Fame, The Arizona Music Heritage Foundation and the Arizona Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame.
Dr. Ben Furlong – Retired superintendent of Kyrene School District, local historian and author.
Dr. Fred Warren – Educator who served as the first African American Associate Principal at Phoenix Union High School and later served as Roosevelt School Superintendent.
2024 Historic Legends
Ray Martinez (1918-2002) – WWII veteran who later served as Arizona State Commander of the American Legion’s Thunderbird Post 41 and was the first Mexican American in the United States to hold this office.
Ladimir “Ladmo” Kwiatkowski (1928-1994) – Best known as “Ladmo” of the Wallace and Ladmo Show, which ran from 1954-1989, the longest-running kids television show in broadcast history to feature the same characters and actors.
Eduarda Yates (1935-2023) – A passionate advocate for historic preservation and heavily involved in the community. Yates served on the Tempe History Society Board, Tempe Double Butte Cemetery Board and the Arizona Human Rights Committee.
The reception will feature live music, food and drinks in addition to the recognition ceremony, according to the release. Tickets are available for $35 here.
Proceeds from the event support Tempe History Society’s efforts to preserve Tempe history and Tempe History Museum’s programming.
