Studs Terkel Humanities Service Award
Tuesday, October 20, 2009 - Posted 2:46:36 PM
(Jane Diaz is the daughter of the late Henry and Bertha Kalkwarf.)
Pontiac, IL – The Illinois Humanities Council along with Pontiac Mayor, Robert Russell, are proud to announce that the William Diaz Family are recipients of the 2009 Studs Terkel Humanities Service Awards. These local “humanities heroes” have been recognized by Mayor Russell and the City of Pontiac for their outstanding efforts on behalf of the humanities in the community.
“We are justifiably proud of the Diaz Family,” said Russell. “They exemplify our city’s commitment to the humanities and the spirit of volunteerism we value in Pontiac.”
Of their many contributions to the community, they are being honored specifically for devoting their collective energies to public art projects such as “Art on Mainstreet” and the Pontiac Wall Dogs Festival that help to promote the creation and appreciation of art, history, and our cultural inheritance.
Jane and Bill Diaz, along with their sons, Joe and Ben, are leaders among the various artists who call Pontiac home. The Diaz family is also highly involved in other aspects of the community. Bill has served as a volunteer coach with the city’s youth football program, and has worked with our local theatre group, painting sets for many of their productions. Jane is a valued member of the Pontiac Public Library board of trustees, and currently serves as vice-president of that board. She has also volunteered at the library as a children’s story time leader, and is an outspoken advocate of childhood literacy and life-long learning programs for adults. Jane is a long time member of the 20th Century Literary Club, and works with other organizations to promote the humanities. Ben serves as president of the Henry Street Horrors, a volunteer organization which plans youth and family-friendly Halloween activities for city residents. He also plays a leadership role with the downtown redevelopment organization’s design committee. Joe, the youngest son, is also a member of the Henry Street Horrors group, and like his brother, is an active participant in the Pontiac Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals group.
“The IHC could not have identified the more than 40 Studs Terkel medalists without the help of Illinois mayors and village presidents,” said IHC Executive Director Kristina A. Valaitis. “We are so pleased that in the 10th year of this program, we are able to honor these champions of the humanities that make their communities and our whole state more vibrant.”
Recipients of the Studs Terkel Service Award will receive an engraved medal of recognition struck by the Medallic Art Company, America’s oldest and largest private mint.
A formal award ceremony will take place at an upcoming City Council meeting.
http://www.prairie.org/programs/studs-terkel-humanities-service-award
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