Winning the All-America City award had been one of the community's goals for several years prior to 2004. We applied in 2001 but was unsuccessful at becoming a finalist. However, since it isn't often that a first time applicant wins that year, we didn't give up trying! We went after it full force in 2003 and were elated when we learned we had been named a finalist along with 29 other communities from around the nation. We competed in the finalist round in Washington DC, but did not get selected as one of the winners of the 2003 award.

With some experience under our belt, we applied in 2004. We were named finalists in April of and began preparing for the competition in Atlanta, Georgia. With the help of 50 volunteers from around the community, we came together in Atlanta to show the nation what kind of spirit we have in Springfield.

We were finally named an All-America City in June of 2004 and we hope to continue to deserve this coveted title. Thanks to all those that participated in the delegation as well as those who offered financial assistance for travel and accommodations for the competition!

The 2004 AAC Delegation:

Rocking Horse Center
Mita Weatherby
Mya Weatherby
Stacey Lee
Skylar Lee
Darion Lee
Cindy Foley
Riley Foley
Kylee Foley


Clark County Literacy Coalition
Chris Parli
David Horne
Mee-Tze Ku
Bobbie Sin
Jonny Sin
Madalyn Sin


City of Springfield
Warren Copeland
Matthew Kridler
Jim Bodenmiller
JoAnn Bodenmiller
Selena Singletary
Shannon Meadows
Jackie Sudoff


Springfield-Clark County Chamber of Commerce
JC Wallace
Erin Wallace
Brad Spitzer
Mindy Tillman
Brooke Tillman
Sydney Tillman


CONA
Janet Click

Neighborhood Housing Partnership of Greater Springfield
Sheila Rice
Bobbie Jo Evans
David Pitch

Springfield Arts Council
Chris Moore

Restored Life Ministries
Larry Coleman
Daniel Smith
Marion McIntosh
Marshal Applin
Joann Kidd
Irene Gray
Phyllis Triggs
Ada Phelps
Christy Jones

Springfield Preservation Alliance
Jeff Smith
Richele Shepard

Changing Lives Now
Tony Valle

Lagos & Lagos
Jim Lagos

Center City Association
Crystal Stevens

Mercy Community Health Partners
Naomi Caldwell

Roosevelt Middle School
Brooke Bodenmiller

Springfield City Schools
Clara Copeland

South High School
Angel Mitchem