Saturday, February 15, 2014

Bernie Williams Awards announced for 2014

Deadwood History Executive Director Mary Kopco behind three of the winners of the Bernie Williams Awards.  They are (l-to-r) Kashton Dillman, Kaitlyn Martin and Alex Pearson
Deadwood History, Inc. has announced winners of the 2014 Bernie Williams Award. 

Bernie Williams was a strong supporter of the communities of Lead and Deadwood, an advocate for children and a dear friend of the Deadwood History museums. When she passed away in 2009, Bernie left a legacy in hope and historic preservation. The Bernie Williams Award for History honors her legacy by offering a full calendar-year scholarship to all Deadwood History youth and family programs for the winning students.

Lead-Deadwood students in grades K-8 were asked to submit a piece of artwork, using any type of art media which reflects a favorite part of living in the Black Hills. 

Six winners were chosen this year. Kindergartener Eain Bender, second grader Connor Bender and third grader Kashton Dillman all used acrylic paint on canvas for the artwork submitted. Second grader Kaitlyn Martin used construction paper and markers for her creation, as did fifth grader Alex Pearson, and sixth grader Jazclynn Ortiz created her project with colored pencils. All work submitted was very unique and artistic. The artwork will be on display in the Pioneer Room at the Adams Museum through February 28, 2014.
Congratulations to Eain, Connor, Kaitlyn, Kashton, Alex and Jazclynn. Deadwood History is deeply grateful to the late Bernie Williams for inspiring our youth to treasure their communities, art and history. 
(Thanks to Rose Speirs)