Elgin preservation awards to be presented to 7 residents, organizations
Seven Elgin residents and organizations will be recognized with awards for their efforts to save and enhance the city's historic architecture, neighborhoods and cultural resources.
The Mayor's Awards for Preservation, bestowed by the Elgin Heritage Commission as chosen from among nominees submitted by peers, will be presented at 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 29, at The Hemmens Cultural Center in a free, public event that can also be viewed on the city's YouTube channel, according to a city news release.
The recipients are:
Chloe Burkhart, honored for her 'above and beyond sympathetic restoration' of her home at 320 North St.
Community Crisis Center, recognized for its 'impressive exterior rehabilitation' of the 1891 historic Franklin School.
Debra Vruble and the Elgin National Watch Neighbors Association, cited for their 'tireless and devoted efforts in reforming the neighborhood group and advocating the benefits of preservation and sense of place.'
Efrain Zepeda, who carried out an 'impactful rehabilitation' of 519-521 Douglas Ave.
Elgin History Museum, lauded for its history podcast 'Echoes of Elgin,' which 'brings to life historian Mike Alft's columns.' It's hosted by Elgin museum educator Rebecca Miller.
Elgin Public Museum, which redid its 'The Encounter' exhibit and turned it into a 'powerful new teaching tool focusing on LaSalle's exploration and the impact of Native American-European trade on Indigenous Peoples, waterways and species.'
Tricia Grosser, honored for her 'continued volunteerism, fundraising and enthusiasm for educating and promoting Elgin's history' as a docent and board member of the Elgin History Museum.
Nine heritage building plaques also will also be presented to Elgin homeowners who have researched the history and architecture of their homes this year, according to the release. Since 1986, more than 500 plaques have been presented.
This year's recipients are:
First Congregational Church; 256 E. Chicago St.;
Elgin History Museum; 302 W. Chicago St.;
Angela and Kellen Smith; 43 Hamilton Ave.;
Mary Beckman; 514 Hubbard Ave.;
Mike and Kelli Howell; 527 Laurel St.;
Heidi and Shannon Carpenter; 1000 Logan Ave.;
Abby and Jack Trimble; 820 Mill St.;
Linda and Jim Hoffmann; 636 N. Spring St.;
Christine Hardwick; 229 Vincent Place;
The heritage commission is a citizen advisory group that promotes Elgin's historic preservation activity. Its nine voting members are appointed by the mayor and Elgin City Council.
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