GENOA — Genoa was one of several Illinois communities recognized with the 2012 Lieutenant governors Award for Excellence in Downtown Revitalization in September. Other winners included Batavia, Crystal Lake and Elgin.

Seventeen awards were presented, four in each of four categories (design, organization, promotion and economic restructuring) and one for volunteer of the year. Winners were selected by a panel of judges from the office of the lieutenant governor, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency.

“Across the state we see renewed efforts at revitalizing our downtown communities, and the passion and dedication shown by these honorees is inspiring,” Lt. Governor Sheila Simon said. “These honorees exemplify the best of what our state has to offer and remind us that Illinois Main Streets are open for business.”