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HOMETOWN HERO

Get to know the newest Peoria Independent Hometown Hero

Cobos has been chosen in the Mentor/Coach category

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Elmar Cobos has been named the Peoria Independent Hometown Hero in the Coach/Mentor category.

The Hometown Heroes Awards are a celebration of individuals who have contributed to the city, and those who have made local achievements and distinguished contributions to the community.

Cobos will be honored at an awards luncheon next year.

In partnership with the city of Peoria, he was interviewed by the city and aired on Channel 11.

Get to know Cobos more here:

What I like most about living in Peoria.
I like that I can go anywhere in Peoria and recognize people

Personal background highlights.
Happily, retired 28 years from Department of Juvenile corrections

What does it mean to be a Peoria resident?
Ownership of what goes on in the Peoria community.

What do you think you bring to the local community that makes it better?
To give back to the community that made my life successful. The ability to communicate with the different generations of Peoria residents.

What would you tell people about why it is important to make a difference?
We need to invest in our future in order to keep Peoria on a successful path in creating a community of opportunity and positivity.

Changes I’d like to see in the area.
I like to get more involved in community policing and community housing.

My family (what have they taught you?):
My family has taught me to get involved in my community, by giving back to the community that gave me the opportunity to be successful.

My interests and hobbies.
Sports. Arizona Cardinals, University of Arizona wildcats, Atlanta Braves and weight lifting.

What traits I admire in others.
I like people that are go getters, those who take on challenges and are not afraid to be leaders.

People who inspire me and how.
My mother, Beatrice Cobos. She was an amazing woman because she taught me right from wrong, how to be respectful and always finish what you start.

Peoria High School Coach Bobby Gonzalo. Set high expectations for yourself, there are always going to be people that do not believe in you, so you have to believe in yourself and don’t ever forget where you came from.

My guiding philosophy.
Dream big and control your own destiny.

My advice to today’s youth.
Listen to learn and learn to listen. Advice that you hear right now might not make sense, but it will later.

Name a couple future goals.
Get involved in community action groups such as policing, housing and maybe school board member.

Learn more about Cobos here.

Philip Haldiman can be reached at phaldiman@iniusa.org, or on Twitter @philiphaldiman.