Attend reception for retiring director LuAnn Bombard Dec. 3
West Chicago, Illinois: November 27, 2012 – Recognized as a dedicated steward of the community's history and culture, Director of Museum and Cultural Services for West Chicago, Illinois, LuAnn Bombard, retires after 26 years. Bombard's career in the preservation and advocacy of West Chicago's unique history, and her support of the humanities through her work with the West Chicago Cultural Arts Commission, has advanced the community in far-reaching ways.
A public reception will be held following the City Council meeting on Monday, Dec. 3, 2012, in Council Chambers at 475 Main St. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. Also, on Friday, Dec. 7, from 1:30 - 4:30 p.m. an open house will be held at the City Museum, 132 Main St. All are invited to attend both celebrations of Bombard's service to the community.
An impressive list of accomplishments including countless exhibits and educational programs, the establishment of a 23-year old annual event known as Tales Tombstones Tell, the oversight of two successful book publications on the City's history, and her passionate role in the preservation of the historic integrity of downtown buildings and architecture, has earned Bombard praise from Acting Mayor Ruben Pineda. “For the past 26 years LuAnn Bombard has served the City of West Chicago as the caretaker of all that is unique and authentic to our community in the role of Director of Museum and Cultural Services; and in this capacity has passionately and successfully preserved, protected and archived the historic integrity of the community through her knowledge, advocacy, energy and love for West Chicago's storied past. She will be greatly missed, not only by me, but the entire community.”
Also noteworthy in her long list of accomplishments, Bombard received the prestigious Studs Terkel Award from the Illinois Humanities Council in 2006. The recognition shined a bright light on the many cultural initiatives of the City. Former Mayor Michael R. Fortner credited her efforts at the time by saying, “She has set a benchmark of excellence in the City of West Chicago and has advanced an appreciation for history and the arts in our community”.