ALTON - Marquette Catholic High School was selected for the 2008 Best of Alton Award in the schools category by the U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA). The Washington D.C.-based USLBA recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country that have achieved exceptional marketing success in their respective local business communities.

"The award came as a very pleasant surprise," said Michael Slaughter, MCHS principal. "Oftentimes schools go unrecognized for what they are doing for their students, parents and all the stakeholders. We feel we are very deserving of this award."

The USLBA promotes local business through public relations, marketing and advertising. Each year, the USLBA identifies companies that have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community, and enhanced the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.

The USLBA works with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations, chambers of commerce and other business advertising and marketing groups, as an advocate for small and medium size businesses and business entrepreneurs across America.