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

Cannon Recognized by U.S. Army

Carl Cannon (far left) poses with ELITE candidates and the staff of the "Gateway Hunters". Cannon was recognized for his work with the CHOICES/ELITE Programs by LTC Barber and his staff from the U.S. Army Recruiting Battalion (St. Louis). Cannon, a retired Army NCO, was presented with the Battalion Coin of Excellence. Way to go, Carl! Whoa!

Manual & AHS Day of Hope

ELITE candidates work with primary school students as part of the Manual Day of Hope held at the RiverPlex. Community participation and volunteerism is a key component of the ELITE Youth Program experience.

Candidates enjoy the pool at the RiverPlex.

ELITE Interviews at PHS

ELITE Youth staff conduct a mock interview of a candidate in preparation for the upcoming EYP graduation and Job Fair to be held on May 16 at the RiverPlex. The Job Fair is the capstone of the program and places trained, certified, employable youth with quality part-time jobs.

A candidate waits his turn. Each of the mock interviews are recorded and reviewed by the candidate, their staff, and by peers as a training aide to help improve performance and sharpen interviewing skills.