Washington, D.C.   Congressman Brad Sherman on Saturday congratulated Canoga Park for winning the All-America City Award for 2005.

This designation will put Canoga Park on the map and help attract business and investment in the community as people understand what a great job they are doing, Sherman said.

The selection of Canoga Park as one of only 10 All-America City Award winners in the nation was announced Saturday at a ceremony in Atlanta, Ga.  The event honored communities that employed collaboration and innovation to overcome challenges.

The All-America City Award, presented by the National Civic League, has encouraged and recognized civic excellence since 1949.  It honors communities of all sizes in which community members, government, businesses and non-profit organizations have worked together to address critical local issues.   George H. Gallup called the award he founded a Nobel Prize for constructive citizenship.

Previous winners of the award have attracted and retained businesses that generate jobs and a stronger tax base. The award also has helped communities attract and retain residents who want a healthy community.

Congressman Sherman secured federal funding for the redevelopment and revitalization of Sherman Way, an important commercial and transportation corridor in Canoga Park.

Canoga Park is a San Fernando Valley community that is part of the City of Los Angeles.

The people of Canoga Park can be proud to live in an All-America City and deserve the great reputation that comes with the award, Sherman said.