Pair of suburban women earn Studs Terkel awards

Bartlett's Rita Lopienski and Hoffman Estates' Michelle Pilafas have each earned a Studs Terkel Humanities Service Award.

This is the 10th anniversary of the award, which recognizes people who help further the understanding of humanities in their communities. It's named after prolific Chicago author Studs Terkel, who died last year at age 96. The honor is given out every other year, and to date about 450 have been awarded.

Lopienski is a village mainstay, as director of community life at the Victory Centre of Bartlett, which serves senior citizens. Bartlett Mayor Michael E. Kelly called her a shining example, someone who manages to draw the best out of senior citizens, whether it be a hidden talent or challenging them to try something new.

"Everything she does is community-related," Kelly said. "She works with the Arts in Bartlett. She shares her abilities with everyone else and she wants to teach people."

As a music therapist, Lopienski plays percussion instruments from across the globe. She's also in the Silver Bells vocal group.

Hoffman Estates' Michelle Pilafas has been chairwoman of the village's arts commission since it started in 1997. She's helped to bring a variety of cultural events to Hoffman Estates. Her contributions include helping to organize the summer concert series, the German festival and the new community art gallery inside village hall. She also started a French film festival.

"We are so grateful to Michelle for the countless hours of volunteer work that she has dedicated to making the arts and humanities available and accessible to our residents," Hoffman Estates Mayor William McLeod said. "The programs greatly contribute to our dynamic and vibrant community."

Pilafas' husband, Gary, is a Hoffman Estates village trustee.

Kelly and McLeod were responsible for nominating their respective community's winners. They will get a medal recognizing their efforts. Kelly said Lopienski will receive hers at the Nov. 17 Bartlett board meeting.