PRESCOTT – Prescott Daze 2024 is right around the corner, and Grand Marshal Lisa Nelson Johnson is ready to proclaim that “It’s Five O’ Clock Somewhere,” the theme for this year’s festivities.

The Prescott Daze Committee announced Johnson as the grand marshal on social media.

“Lisa is known for her willingness to volunteer and support the community around her,” the statement read. “She is the President of the K9 Foundation, a board member of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce, a chair of the Prescott Hometown Holidays drive, on the board of the Great River Road Theater, as well as always lending a hand to other groups in town.”

It’s clear many in the community share the committee’s admiration for Johnson, as evidenced by the nominations received. Some of the accolades shared about Johnson included:

• “She's an amazing person with a heart of gold! She volunteers for many events in Prescott. She would give anyone the shirt off her back if they need it!”
• “She works at the bank in Prescott, is always promoting events in Prescott, fundraises for committees, and is always positive and energetic.”
• “Lisa volunteers A LOT of her time within the Prescott community and is constantly doing things for others without being asked, she makes Prescott a better place.”
• “Lisa has always been a big contributor to the Prescott K9 foundation as well as school sports and activities. She knows the people of Prescott and always has a smile on her face! She has been an integral part of this community for decades. She volunteers, is part of community organizations and is just a wonderful human being.”

Johnson has lived in Prescott for 31 years, a town she is proud to call home.

“I followed a boy here and got married. I’m no longer married but we are great friends still. So it worked out just fine,” Johnson said. “I have worked at First National Bank of River Falls for eight years. And before that I worked for Char Magee. I have been lucky to work at such great places that believe in giving back. They both very much encouraged volunteering. Can’t have a better role model then Char Magee to teach you the ropes.”

Johnson admits she’s involved in many organizations but loves every minute of it. Besides the organizations listed above, she is also a member of the police commission, serves as a Chamber Ambassador and served on the Prescott School Board for six years.

“I believe in giving back because that is how I was raised,” Johnson “We never had a lot of money growing up, but we always had time to give. My dad also said you have no right to complain about anything unless you do something about it. So obviously I like to complain a lot.”

Johnson feels honored to serve as grand marshal, considering all “the amazing people that were before me.” She joked that Steve Peterson’s online campaign helped her win. She received the news from friend and fellow chamber board member Casey Johnson. Her kids were equally excited.

“My kids are awesome. They are always my biggest cheerleaders and posted about how proud they were right away,” she said.

Johnson’s favorite part of Prescott Daze is hanging out with her friends downtown on Saturday and getting to see so many people. She also loves the parade and participates each year as part of the bank’s float.

“The Prescott Daze Committee works so hard to make such a fun weekend,” she said. “I appreciate them all so much. I love Prescott. Honestly, there is no better place to live and no better people. We are so lucky to live in this beautiful town. And I have made so many wonderful friends by moving here.”

Johnson has not been practicing her parade wave, but she joked she will be wearing longer sleeves.

“My arms aren't the same as they used to be if you know what I'm saying,” she laughed.

Get your seats early for the grand parade, which kicks off at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 8. The parade route is different this year due to road construction. It starts at its regular starting point of Cherry Street, heads to Elm, goes to Kinnickinnic and ends at Flora Street.

For a full list of Prescott Daze events for Sept. 5-8, visit prescottdaze.com