CW Notes

Joseph Sharpe’s most recent honor, the Illinois Jaycee’s Ten Outstanding Young People of 2012 award, reflects the series of outstanding accomplishments and associated recognitions that the 29-year-old Peoria resident has received since he served two tours of duty in Iraq as a Marine from 2001 to 2005. Noted in the Jaycees’ summary were Sharpe’s military service including receiving the Purple Heart, his charity work for children while in Iraq, his academic and professional accomplishments achieving his bachelors and masters simultaneously at Bradley University, starting Sharp Payroll, as well as volunteer work, especially his leadership with Amvets Post 64 and starting the Amvets Charities 501(c)3. He recently was named one of Peoria’s 40 Leaders Under 40 recipients. Sharpe was one of two local people recognized — Renee Charles of the Heartland Partnership also received a TOYP award.