SHARON MCBRIDE

The West Peoria Resident’s Association (WPRA) has activities planned for May to involve residents. May 14 is scheduled for a community-wide yard sale. Sale hours are planned for 7 a.m.-3 p.m. WPRA will post signage and also run ads in the Peoria Journal Star. Contact coordinator Maggie Moore at maggiemo@mtco.com or call her at (309) 673-0535 to take advantage of this. Do it prior to sale day to get on the list of sale addresses. Rain date: Saturday, May 21. Enjoy this different aspect of our community.

The WPRA is hosting a special meeting 6 p.m. May 19. Mayor James Dillon and City Administrator Kinga Krider will review 2021 and present what is planned for 2022. Mark your calendars that Thursday of this month in City Hall.

MEMORIAL DAY: An important, ongoing West Peoria tradition recognizing Memorial Day and our veterans is scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, May 28 at Franciscan Park. This event shares the significance of Memorial Day and is a good opportunity to let our youth and Scouts participate in a patriotic celebration in a local setting.

50TH FOURTH: Springtime helps us get our minds — and yards — ready for the 50th Fourth of July celebration. This is the oldest Fourth celebration in central Illinois and draws thousands to our community to volunteer, participate or view the parade, which steps off at 10 the morning of the Fourth. Enjoy this day and event which is about as grass roots as celebrations can be. It started when Scouts and their families walked together when Scout leaders were looking for a special Fourth recognition and found none in the area. West Peoria is widely known for this event. Join as volunteers or participants through City Hall. Prepare your property to showcase that the living is indeed special here. Thousands attend. This year, unfortunately, Swords Ave. bridge will be closed for construction. Tell your guests about this situation. Contact City Hall to be a part of the 50th celebration.

Each year an involved citizen is honored as grand marshal. Nominate a person who has been significantly involved in a variety of ways. A short letter needs to be sent with your nominee’s credentials and your contact information. More details are available on the City’s website.

GREENWAY: The Peoria side of Western Ave. was made into a greenway park that gives West Peoria an attractive border on the Peoria side. The Greenway goes from Main St. to Callendar Ave. and is maintained and financed by volunteers. Take a walk or slow down while driving past and look at this very nice entrance to our City. Volunteers are needed during various seasons for upkeep. Check the Western Ave. Greenway website and learn more about this special place. You can even take a bag and pick up garbage during a trip through the Greenway. Enjoy this special green area that showcases our community.