City of El Paso Named Grand Marshal

 EL PASO, Texas (September 9, 2010) – The City of El Paso has been named the grand marshal of the 2010 FirstLight Federal Credit Union Sun Bowl Parade.

"We are truly excited to name the City of El Paso the grand marshal of the 2010 FirstLight Federal Credit Union Sun Bowl Parade," said Karl Murphy, president of FirstLight Federal Credit Union. "As a 2010 recipient of the All-America City Award, there is no greater way to pay tribute to this honor than to give the City of El Paso center stage at its largest annual event."

In June, the City of El Paso was one of 10 cities named a 2010 All-America City. It marks the second time that El Paso has been so honored. The city also won the award in 1969. The Sun Bowl Association also commemorated the 1969 honor by featuring the city's award on the cover of the 1970 Sun Bowl game program.

"The Sun Bowl Association is so much a part of the identity of what El Paso is, how could we not honor this great city," said Amen F. Ayoub, Sun Bowl Association president. "This is truly a unique honor for our city and a unique opportunity for our Association."

The City of El Paso was honored with the All-America City status by the National Civic League. The 61-year old awards program recognizes neighborhoods, villages, towns, cities, counties and metro regions for outstanding civic accomplishments. To win, communities have to demonstrate an ability to address serious challenges with innovative, grassroots strategies that promote civic engagement and cooperation between the public, private and non-profit sectors.

To qualify for the award, communities submit a detailed application listing three examples of successful community-based problem-solving. This year's winners addressed such issues as homelessness, obesity, economic development, low income housing, improving schools and diversity and inclusion.

The 74th FirstLight Federal Credit Union Sun Bowl Parade is Thursday, Nov. 25 at 10 a.m. The parade runs along Montana Avenue beginning at Ochoa Street and ending at Copia Street. Review Stand tickets for the parade can be purchased at the Sun Bowl Association office. This year's parade theme is "Building A Dream."