PUNTA GORDA — For decades, Dr. Lenita Hanson has treated patients in the community for diabetes.
As a tribute to her service, she will be honored as grand marshal of the 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade in Punta Gorda, organizers announced Wednesday.
The traditional parade steps off at 11 a.m. Jan. 20 in Punta Gorda.
Hanson, who has more than 39 years of experience, will be one of the featured dignitaries riding in the parade. As a diabetes and metabolism endocrinologist in Port Charlotte, Hanson is affiliated with several local and regional hospitals.
The annual parade and rally celebration is sponsored by First Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Punta Gorda.
This year’s theme is “Our continued Goal — Unity” from the bible scripture: Ephesians 4:3, said longtime event volunteer Zelda Smith.
“During this event we organize and implement a countywide parade in honor of the extraordinary efforts, influences and accomplishments of the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., toward peace, justice and equal opportunity for all,” Smith said.