“We live in the most amazing place in Utah!” So said Connie Hamilton who was honored as the 2017 Citizen of the Year during the opening ceremonies for International Days Thursday at the Price Peace Gardens.
She was introduced by this years International Days committee chair Terry Willis. Hamilton declared, “I’m so blessed to be here. Community service is something that is instilled in all of us. We give every day of our lives, to our neighbor, to our community.” Hamilton was instrumental is establishing the Children’s Justice Center, among other volunteer achievements.
Price Mayor Joe Piccolo then recognized Frank Peczuh, Jr. as this year’s International Days Grand Marshal. A native of Price, Peczuh is the owner of Peczuh Printing, and is also Assistant Fire Chief with the Price Fire Department. Chief Paul Bedont said of Peczuh, “We’re glad to have him. He’s been with the fire department for nearly 35 years. He’s a good man.”
In making the presentation, Mayor Piccolo noted, “For your continued dedication to our community’s positive family values and your professional inspiration, we honor you this year and forever more.”
Peczuh recalled his grandparent’s courage and sacrifices in order to start their lives in America. “They left home and family to come to a land that offered hope and opportunity,” he said.
Peczuh’s grandparents met and married in Colorado and moved to Price in the 1940s. He recalled his grandmother’s tender touch, oatmeal cookies and Thanksgiving dinners. “I remember her endless patience and great wisdom. It is her legacy and the legacy of so many others like her that we celebrate International Days, and it is in her memory that I humbly accept this honor,” he concluded.
Junior Grand Marshals David Peczuh and Taylor Tryon were introduced by the Mayor and presented with plaques to mark the occasion.
Mayor Piccolo cited some of the events and people that have made up the rich history of Price, and predicted a promising future. “We’re starting to emerge from a mineral-based economy to something plus,” he observed, adding, “And I don’t mean something else because I believe that coal will be a valuable asset for a long time still to come.”
After the opening ceremonies, “Paid in Full,” a classic rock band entertained the large crowd at the Peace Gardens, followed by fireworks from Wood Hill to kick off the 2017 International Days celebration, which continued Friday and Saturday.
International Days committee chair Terry Willis said there were close to record crowds at this year’s events. She praised the committee and city employees, with kudos to the Parks and Rec staff for their tireless efforts.
International Days Opening Ceremonies
Connie Hamilton, 2017 Citizen of the Year