HR0739 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0739 LRB103 40448 ECR 72802 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives wish to congratulate journalist, columnist, and historian Dave Clarke on being named the 2024 Outstanding Citizen by the Kewanee Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Club in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the City of Kewanee; and

WHEREAS, Dave Clarke's illustrious career has left an indelible mark on the fabric of Kewanee, enriching the lives of its residents through his insightful reporting, engaging columns, and passionate dedication to preserving local history; and

WHEREAS, Dave Clarke's commitment to community service extends far beyond the realm of journalism, encompassing his leadership roles in various organizations, including the Frank H. Craig Wethersfield Alumni Association, the Saxon Cemetery Association, and the Wethersfield FFA Alumni organization, reflecting his deep-rooted connection to the social and cultural fabric of Kewanee; and

WHEREAS, Dave Clarke's accolades and honors, including being named a Paul Harris Fellow by the Kewanee Rotary Club, earning an Honorary State FFA Degree from the Illinois FFA, and being inducted into the Wethersfield Academic Hall of Fame, underscore his exceptional achievements and the high esteem in which he is held by his peers and the wider community; and

WHEREAS, Dave Clarke's dedication to mentoring youth, his involvement with organizations such as the Miss Henry County Fair Pageant and the Kewanee Black Knights Junior Drum and Bugle Corps, and his support for educational initiatives, including the Step Ladder Tutoring Program and the Kewanee FFA, exemplify his unwavering commitment to nurturing future generations and fostering a sense of community pride and engagement; and

WHEREAS, Dave Clarke's contributions to radio broadcasting and print journalism and his tenure as editor of Galva News and Star Courier have cemented his reputation as a consummate professional and a cherished figure within the Kewanee media landscape; and

WHEREAS, Dave Clarke's deep ties to Kewanee, stemming from his upbringing on a farm south of the city and his continued dedication to its betterment, have endeared him to generations of residents and earned him the respect and admiration of all who have had the privilege of knowing him; and

WHEREAS, Dave Clarke's unwavering commitment to preserving Kewanee's heritage, his willingness to share his wealth of knowledge, and his personification as a beacon of inspiration and leadership for the community embodies the spirit of the Outstanding Citizen Award, making him a most deserving recipient of this prestigious honor; and

WHEREAS, Dave Clarke will be honored as the 2024 Outstanding Citizen at the Kewanee Chamber of Commerce's Outstanding Citizen Award Banquet on May 14, 2024; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we congratulate Dave Clarke on being named the 2024 Outstanding Citizen by the Kewanee Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Club, and we recognize his exceptional contributions to Kewanee's cultural heritage, his journalistic excellence, and his unwavering commitment to community service; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Dave Clarke as a symbol of our esteem and respect.