Galesburg on Track and the city’s Community Development Department announced that 560 Liberty Street is the recipient of the Community Blue Ribbon Award for the month of September. The 4th Ward residence is owned and occupied by Mark and Mary (Maria) Johnson. The property was nominated for the monthly award by Anthony Padilla.

The Johnsons have lived at the home since 2000 and Mary has been there since 1960 when her parents took up residence at the property. Over the years, the home has seen many improvements with new siding, roofing, windows, and landscaping. The yard has been fenced, flowers are planted annually on the welcoming front and rear porches, and there is a paver sidewalk bordering the front terrace.

The Blue-Ribbon sign will be placed in the front yard and a certificate will be presented to the Johnsons at the September 19th city council meeting. Citizens are urged to nominate properties through the city website or a Galesburg on Track member. Given that all city wards have been recognized this year, the Award has expanded to a city-wide focus for the remainder of 2022.