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Betty Kinser Award
Betty Kinser was one of my best friends, as well as a community activist. We met on a political campaign for a woman running for US Senate and continued working on political events, local, statewide and national. Later, as her husband’s dementia increased, Bernie and I became closer to the family as we accompanied them to events. When Betty was appointed to the Board of Trustees of Illinois State University, we became drivers to many ISU events.
Any of you who have delivered boxes of facial tissues to clients were also touched by Betty, as she would call me to say, “Watch for a box on your porch. I ordered tissues for the pantry.” When I mentioned that the weed-eater we used at the pantry had quit, she ordered one for us. Bernie used it yesterday when he was trimming around the pantry.
Betty spent hours volunteering in many Normal issues, as well as always keeping track of what was happening with ISU. One of her accomplishments was the Veteran’s Memorial at ISU. She was determined to help veterans returning to school.
Her family is thrilled that the McLean County Democrats chose to honor her by naming the Betty Kinser Community Service Award in her name. It is an honor to be chosen as the first person to receive that honor.
— Dorthy Deany
It was an honor last night to present the first Betty Kinser Award to my dear friend Dorothy Deany at the McLean County Democrats “Honoring the Roosevelts” dinner at Illinois State U last night. Betty was a sparkplug, hard worker and a loving spirit who lit up every room with her smile. Dorothy was Betty’s quieter but persistent co-worker and volunteer — together they continually stood up for human rights and a better society. Congratulations Dorothy!