FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 11, 2012

The group Friends of Rocky Glen wishes to thank the Peoria City Council for its favorable vote to purchase the natural area called Rocky Glen for public use. During the past two years as we worked to protect this unique property, we have been privileged to experience a broad base of support that includes Peoria local businesses, volunteer organizations, local governmental bodies and literally hundreds of private citizens from Peoria and nearby communities. It is impossible to thank everyone.

Our group would like to especially recognize the owners and staff of Jimmy’s Bar, John S Rhodell Brewery, Raber Packing Company, Left Hand Brewing, Sports Corner & Creations, the West Peoria Resident’s Association, the Heart of Illinois Sierra Club, the Global Warming Solutions Group, the Forest Park Foundation, the Peoria Park District, the City of West Peoria and the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission. We are also grateful to State Senator David Koehler and Representative Gordon for their support. The multi-faceted efforts of these  people have contributed to this success.

Friends of Rocky Glen would like to specifically thank Susan Schlupp, Peoria City staff, for her outstanding diligence in pursuing public ownership of Rocky Glen. Her efforts have been far above and beyond what anyone would expect. Peoria’s hard working employees deserve our gratitude for their every day effort. Susan has accomplished amazing work to help make this City Council vote possible.

Finally, Friends of Rocky Glens commends the Peoria City Council for its historic vote. Rocky Glen represented one of the largest privately held parcels of unique natural value in Central Illinois. Rocky Glen will provide open space for an underserved part of the city, expand outdoor education opportunities for nearby District 150 schools and safeguard a piece of Peoria history. This purchase truly serves all Peorians well.

The Friends of Rocky Glen is committed to help make this property accessible for public enjoyment. Our efforts will include fundraising for trails, a public parking lot and interpretive signs that will facilitate the use of Rocky Glen as an open classroom.  We will continue to volunteer our time to further protect and restore this unique natural area. We are committed to staying involved, because there is plenty of work yet to do. We invite everyone to visit our website, www.friendsofrockyglen.org, and get involved.

For further information please contact President David Pittman at 309-573-2354 dvdgpittman@gmail.com