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Wooten Day in Rock Island

Mark your calendars for Thursday - because in Rock Island it will be "J. Donald Wooten Day." That was the proclamation approved Monday night by the city council in recognition of his many contributions to the city and community.

He was honored, not just for being the founding general manager of WVIK public radio station, but also for founding the Genesius Guild, helping to establish the Quad City Arts Council, and his two terms in the Illinois Senate.

Wooten called the honor, "very generous."

"I'm really very grateful - I have been honored beyond all reason. This community has done so much for me, and to be acknowledged is just amazing."

During his terms in Springfield, Wooten received numerous "Best Legislator" Awards, and was one of the leaders of a group of downstate and independent democrats called "The Crazy Eight." He also received the Studs Terkel Humanities Award from the Illinois Humanities Council.

Wooten will be honored Thursday night at a benefit dinner for WVIK, and Sunday will receive an honorary doctorate from Augustana College.