Albany Named ALL AMERICAN CITY

First published in print: Saturday, June 20, 2009

Albany has won the title of "All America City" after city officials promoted its municipal improvements, youth programs and historical significance.

The National Civic League made the award Friday to a team of 25 boosters, including Mayor Jerry Jennings, during a meeting in Tampa, Fla. Jennings said by phone after the ceremony that it was a tough competition, pitting Albany against some of the best and brightest cities in the country.

"It's celebration of everything we've done and all the efforts the city has made to make it a great community for everyone," Jennings said.

The last time Albany received the award, which the league considers the equivalent of a "civic Oscar," was in 1991. Albany was one of 10 to receive the award among 32 finalists nominated. Jennings and others had submitted a 27-page application that detailed improvements made to the city since the mayor'selection, including the Capitalize Albany revitalization plan.

The city could use the All America City logo for up to the year, said Mark McGrath spokesman for the National Civic League, using it to market the city and attract tourists or businesses.

Humberto Martinez and Jordan Carleo-Evangelist contributed to this story.