Remarks by Diego Castellanos

To say that I am thrilled about this would be a gross understatement.

I mean:  think about it!  To receive a prestigious award from a prestigious organization in a prestigious place such as this makes my lifetime endeavors all worth it.

Since the moment I first learned about the PanAmerican Association, I’ve been impressed by this organization.

And I want you to know that it was precisely your arch display of Pan-American flags that inspired me to (essentially) copy you.  Those of you who’ve seen my TV show in the past few years, have undoubtedly noticed that I have an array of flags in my studio set—exactly as you do for your luncheon meetings.  That’s how I got the idea!

Which brings me to the most important element of my message:

Obviously, I’m being recognized tonight because of my work in broadcasting.

Please join me in recognizing—and thanking—the Philadelphia institution that has made it all possible:

WPVI-TV6abc(the leading television station in the Greater Philadelphia Metropolitan Area).

Channel 6 management took a chance with an initiative at a time when it wasn’t yet fashionable to do that . . . and that was 44 years ago.

Speaking of which, I take this opportunity to also thank another Philadelphia icon:  PECO.  Yes; those legendary PECO Crown lights annually remind everyone in Philly that “Puerto Rican Panorama” has reached another anniversary.  If, by any chance, there’s anyone in this audience who is in any way affiliated with PECO. . .J know that I’m grateful.

Now, in trying to find a parallel between William J. Clothier’s life and mine, the main thing I can think of is that we both lived checkered lives; both of us had multiple identities at any given time.  I wonder if he knew Bill Cosby (?) I’m certain that Cosby knows who Clothier was.

And I assume most of you know about the awesome William Clothier; let me tell you a few things you might not know about me:

I’ve have worked as a sales person, photographer, musician; worked in Camden for Campbell Soup and RCA; served in the military; worked in education (both, in the classroom and on the regulatory side [with the NJ state government]).  Many of these jobs I did simultaneously.  There was a time when I was working five jobs a week (not because I needed money, but because important work had to be done).  I have broadcast in both Spanish and English; and in both radio and television.  I’m a licensed pilot, and [pause] that’s all I can say in public.

While I would never attempt to compare myself to William Clothier, we did soar in multiple directions; but, of course, he soared at a higher level than I.

And I’m told he passed away on October 19; Oct. 19 is my birthday.  (I guess you notice I’m trying really hard to find similarities to justify my being honored in his memory.)  There should be no questions in anyone’s mind that I am proud for this; and thankful.

William Clothier, God bless your soul.  God bless the Pan American Association; God bless America—and God bless all of you here tonight.  Thank you!