The Peoria Jaycees Seventy-First Annual "Distinguished Service Awards" was held on February 24 at the Hotel Pere Marquette.

Deputy James Middlemas of West Peoria was presented with the "Outstanding Young Law Enforcement Officer for 2010".
Every year, the Jaycees selection committee chooses a resident to honor. This year, Chief Deputy Needham nominated Deputy Middlemas. The selection committee then found out more information about Middlemas by talking to his peers, family, and others familiar with him.
At the award ceremony, the committee talked about Middlemas' assignments as West Peoria Community Policing Officer and his involvement in Neighborhood Watch. They also mentioned his work with the tactical teams, bike patrol team, and school safety planning. It is those members of our community like Deputy Middlemas that deserve to be honored. It is people like him who keep our community safe.
Congratulations, Deputy James Middlemas, and thank you for all you do for our community!