Three major national awards came to Edwardsville and Glen Carbon in 2010:

1.  Family Circle Magazine names Edwardsville 3rd nationally, in

"Best Towns and Cities Across the Country For Families"

July 7, 2010, NEW YORK—Family Circle Magazine today announced the results of its exclusive survey to identify the best TOWNS AND CITIES across the country FOR FAMILIES,

     Edwardsville placed third!!!!

The communities featured in the magazine’s annual roundup of perfect places to call home combine affordable housing, good neighbors, green spaces, strong public school systems and giving spirits.  The results of the comprehensive survey appear in Family Circle’s August 2010 issue, on newsstands today. 

This was filled with some intrigue locally.  While local officials were interviewed, strict silence was imposed; a leak would have disqualified the city as a candidate.   Based on a variety of factors, Edwardsville was considered to have it all...good schools, great citizenship, wonderful citizen participation, a fitness emphasis with two great Y MCAs  and a hundred+ miles of biking and hiking trails.  All that, and a sense of history that offered roots to the residents.   Officials expressed great satisfactions.  Gary Niebur, the mayor, said, "Our community is pleased and honored to receive such distinguished recognition." 

According to Family Circle’s survey, the 10 Best Towns are, (with Edwardsville placing third!)

Edmond, Oklahoma, Hampton Township, Pennsylvania,  Edwardsville, Illinois,   La Verne, California

Windsor, Colorado,  Round Rock, Texas,  Simpsonville, South Carolina, Bristol, Rhode Island,

Meridian, Idaho, Bettendorf, Iowa    (Click here for Edwardsville's Writeup)

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2. Glen Carbon ranked among top 100

Best Places to Live in USA, By CNNMoney

Glen Carbon is ranked among the top 100 best places to live according to Money Magazine. Glen Carbon, with a population of 12,500, is praised for its wide selection of affordable housing, abundant vegetation, and its strong community spirit. Money Magazine's researchers surveyed small towns across America, gathering data on their unemployment levels, crime rates, school systems and housing costs. Based on this research, Glen Carbon is recognized among America's best places to live!

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3.  Glen Carbon's Library also won this award in 2010...the Best Small Library in America, 2010!

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