Real Heroes at Northwoods Church

Carl Cannon (left) was the featured speaker at the "Secret Hero" program held at Northwoods Community Church on Saturday and Sunday, July 21-22. The program was the fifth of a six-part series entitled, "Real Heroes." Seated next to Cannon is Pastor Tim Reist of Northwoods Community Church.

Coach Jack Lengyel - "We Are Marshall"

Jack Lengyel, former Head Football Coach at Marshall University, speaks to CHOICES kids at the Peoria RiverPlex on Tuesday. Lengyel took over the program in 1971 following the devastating plane crash in 1970 which killed 75 players, coaches, and boosters. Lengyel and his team are the subject of the hit movie, "We Are Marshall." Lengyel is portrayed by Matthew McConaughey.

NBC Channel 25 interviews a CHOICES kid after the program.

CHOICES founder, Carl Cannon (left), Coach Lengyel, and Lance Zedric share a laugh.

American Red Cross Heartland Heroes

Carl Cannon recieves the prestigious Heartland Heroes Citizenship Award from the national American Red Cross Chairman Bonnie McElveen-Hunter on June 5, 2007 at the Pere Marquette in Peoria. Congratulations Carl on a much-deserved award.

Photo courtesy of Nelliephotography.

Cannon Family/Graduation

The Cannon family "Plays in Peoria" in celebration of Summer Cannon's graduation from Bradley University on Saturday, May 19. Way to go, Summer!

Summer Cannon smiles as she clutches her hard-earned "sheepskin".

The Cannon Family.

ELITE Youth Graduation

On Wednesday, May 16, 2007 at the Peoria RiverPlex the ELITE Youth Program graduated its inaugural class of 58 students. The graduation ceremony recognized those students who completed a demanding 10-week course leading to competitive part-time employment. Speakers included Mayor Jim Ardis, District 150 Superintendent Ken Hinton, and Mrs. Bonnie Noble of the Peoria Park District. Thanks to everyone who helped make the program a resounding success! Way to go graduates!

Program founder, Carl Cannon, opens the ceremony.

An ELITE graduate holds his Certificate.

Mr. Hinton, addresses the graduates.

Smiles all around.

Before the ceremony graduates interview at the Workforce Network Job Fair.

An ELITE graduate gets a pointer from a potential employer.

PHS ELITE at JC Penney

EYP Candidates try on business attire in preparation for the EYP Job Fair and Graduation to be held on Wednesday, May 16 at the RiverPlex. An enormous thanks to JC Penney for outfitting each student. Way to Go JC Penney!!

Program founder, Carl Cannon, gets involved.

Students pose for a shot after the shopping trip.

Students wave goodbye. See you at graduation!

Carlyts Bovan Vigil

The following photos were taken at a vigil for murder victim Carlyts Bovan held on Thursday, May 3, at the Mt. Zion Church. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and friends for their loss. We encourage everyone to post a comment on the blog to show their support to the family.

The Bovan family mourns its loss.

Friends find solace in each other.

Carl Cannon comforts a family member.

A family prays together.

Tomorrow's legacy