Saturday, July 15, 2006

A grand award for a lifetime of good work -- archaeologist Lyle Stone

[Source: Nancy Valentine, Green Valley News & Sun] -- Lyle Stone reverently pulled large volumes of archaeological research surveys from the shelf in his Tubac office as if they were diaries. Each one detailed significant findings he had been instrumental in helping bring to light - a lifetime of what he said he had always hoped would be regarded simply as “good work.” Recently, Stone’s hope was confirmed in a grand way. In recognition for his lifetime of pioneering contributions and for a distinguished record in promoting, preserving and studying Arizona’s irreplaceable historical and archaeological resources, Stone was honored by his peers at the 2006 Governor’s Heritage Preservation Honor Awards ceremony. He came home with another memento to add to his shelf -- The Grand Award.

“I was overwhelmed,” Stone said with his understated way. Admittedly not one to easily talk about his accomplishments, Stone acknowledged it felt good to know there was “respect out there” among his peers for the work he has done. As he carefully closed one volume and returned it to its place on the shelf, it appeared for a moment that the magnitude of his accomplishments was lost in a rush of personalized memories of the loving efforts that filled the pages. [Note: To read the full article, click here.]