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Peoria celebrates year as All-America City

 

Credit Tamie Yost

The City of Peoria culminated its year-long All America City celebration with a party at the Riverfront Museum.

This is the fourth time the city’s won the award since 1953. The National Civic League recognizes 10 communities a year for outstanding civic accomplishments.
The 2013 winning bid was spearheaded by the Young Professionals Organization. The group believed Peoria’s Commitment to Education, Health care, Innovation, and unique amenities fit the criteria.

Kate Green is the Assistant to the City Manager. She traveled to Denver to give the winning presentation. She says although this year as an All America City is over, there’s always a possibility Peoria could win again.

“It takes a lot of work.  It was a lot of effort, a lot of fundraising and collaboration to get us out there last year.  But it was a fantastic time and I think it really brought the community together.  So I’m sure in the near future you will see a delegation out there again.”

During the year people had a chance to write why they think Peoria is an All America City on a sticker. The stickers were collected and incorporated into a large art piece unveiled at the party.
Local artist Jacob Grant created a 20 foot ceramic mural depicting the Peoria skyline. It’s on display at the Peoria Riverfront Museum.