Chuck Fiori (class of 1986) died last month, taking with him institutional memory that can’t be replaced. Chuck served for many years on the Docent Council, and he created the popular Churches By Bus tour. His tour of the Bridgeport neighborhood included the former Immaculate Conception Church, one of the few urban monasteries in the country. In the long-ago “old days”, Chuck chaired the docent social committee, organizing outings to Grant Park concerts and trips to the Garfield Park conservatory. In addition, he planned the docents’ holiday party each December and the All Docent meeting. A firm believer in the power of community, Chuck loved to plan these get togethers. He won the Outstanding Docent award in 2000. A talented singer, Chuck was a member of the William Ferris Chorale as well as his church choir. His voice continues as a strong memory in both those venues as well as here at CAC.
Sylvia Kete, class of 1998, has moved and retired from active docent status. A more fitting tribute than her own words couldn’t be found:
“The hardest part of leaving Chicago was giving up my passion for CAC, the River and other tours I had hoped to add to my roster upon full retirement. Having been a Docent for over two decades has been one of the highlights of my life’s many wonderful experiences. I will never forget what I learned and gained from my time with CAC. Volunteers—“we get far more than we give.” In my own career as a Volunteer Manager that was always my goal. Know and follow the Mission, understand one’s role with its limits and opportunities and embrace the passion which makes it all come alive.
With pride for my past “performances” on the River and with overwhelming pride for the CAC and its volunteers and staff, I bid a warm adieu. May you continue to flourish, adapt and inspire all that find their way to Chicago.”
And we will miss Angela Platt, class of 2013, who has retired her docent status. In In addition to being a sponsor for the Historic Treasures tour, Angela loved leading the Art Deco and Fulton Market tours. Angela writes:
“After a weekend of thought and a few tears I’ve realized that it’s time for me to let go of docenting. I loved doing it, I learned a lot, and I met some wonderful people. I even had my “15 minutes of fame”: Touring downtown with the Chicago Architecture Foundation
Don’t lose Angela (shown here with granddaughter Elaina Catherine, born last August)! You can stay in touch via email: aw*******@ya***.com.
Have something to share with your fellow docents and volunteers? Contact Diane Wagner – dn********@gm***.com.
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Thanks, Diane. I always enjoying reading about the docents. May Chuck Fiori’s memory be a blessing.