Morton, IL 2010 Community Profile and Resource Guide by Tivoli Design + Media Group

Morton Morton Morton Morton Morton Morton Morton Community Community Community Community Community Community Community Bank Bank Bank Bank Bank Bank AA Full-Service, Locally-Owned, Locally-Owned, Independent, Independent, Bank AFull-Service, Full-Service, LocallyOwned, Owned, Independent, A Full-Service, Locally Independent, A Full-Service, Locally Owned, Independent, Locally-Owned, Independent, Hometown Hometown Bank Bank committed committed to to ourour community! community!

A Full-Service, Owned, Independent, Hometown BankLocally Committed to Our Our Community! Hometown Bank Committed to Community! A Full-Service, Locally-Owned, Independent, Hometown Bank Committed to Our Community! Three Three convenient convenient locations locations in Morton... in Morton... committed to our community! Three convenient locations in Morton... Hometown Bank Committed Our Community! Three convenient locations into Morton... convenient locations in HometownThree Bank committed to our community! Three convenient locations inMorton... Morton... Three convenient locations in Morton...

Wayne Wayne Menold, Menold, FoodFood TentTent Co-Chairman Co-Chairman andand Wayne Menold, Food Tent Co-Chairman and Wayne Menold, Food Tent Co-Chairman and Laura Laura Bouchard-Elam, Bouchard-Elam, a past a past Chamber Chamber Board Board Wayne Menold, Food Tent Co-Chairman and Laura Bouchard-Elam, a past Chamber Board Wayne Menold, Food Tent Co-Chairman and Wayne Menold, Food Tent Co-Chairman and Laura a many past Chamber Board President, President, are Bouchard-Elam, just are two oftwo the many the annual annual Pumpkin Pumpkin Laura Bouchard-Elam, aofaof past Chamber Board President, arejust justtwo the many annual Pumpkin Laura Bouchard-Elam, past Chamber Board Wayne Menold, Food Tent Co-Chairman and Laura Bouchard-Elam, a past Chamber Board President, are just two of the many annual Pumpkin Festival Festival Volunteers from Morton Morton Community Community Bank. Bank. President, areVolunteers just two offrom the many annual Pumpkin Festival Volunteers Morton Community Bank. President, just two offrom the many annual Pumpkin Lauraare Bouchard-Elam, a past Chamber Board President, are just two of Morton the many annual Pumpkin Festival Volunteers from Community Bank. Festival Volunteers from Morton Community Bank. Festival Volunteers from Morton Community Bank. President, are just two of the manyCommunity annual Pumpkin Festival Volunteers from Morton Bank.

Three convenient locations in Morton...

Festival Volunteers from Morton Community Bank.

Morton Community Bank

Morton Morton Community Community Bank, Bank, 721 721 West West Jackson Jackson Street Street Morton Community Bank, 721 West Jackson Street Morton Community Bank, 721 West Jackson Street Morton Community Bank, 721 West Jackson Street Morton Community Bank, 721 West Jackson Street Morton Community Bank, 721 West Jackson Street Morton Community Bank, 721 West Jackson Street

IFC (FP)

For For nearly 30 years, 30 years, years, the the Community the Community Community Fornearly over 30 For over 30 hosted years, the Community Christmas Christmas Sing, Sing, hosted each each December December by byby For over 30 years, the Community Christmas Sing, hosted each December For nearly 3030 years, thethe Community For over years, Community Christmas Sing, hosted each December the employees the employees of MCB, of MCB, has has rung rung in the in the Christmas Sing, hosted each December by the employees of MCB, has rung inby theby Christmas Sing, hosted eachthe December For nearly 30offor years, Community Christmas Sing, hosted each December by the employees MCB, has rung in the holiday holiday season season the for Village. the Village. the employees ofofMCB, rung ininthe holiday seasonhas for the Village. theChristmas employees MCB, has rung the Sing, hosted each December by the employees of MCB, has rung in the holiday season forVillage. the Village. holiday season for the holiday season the the employees of for MCB, has rung in the holiday season for Village. the Village. holiday season for the Village.

7.333" x 9.833" (309) (309) 266-5337 (309)266-5337 266-5337 (309) 266-5337 (309) 266-5337 (309) 266-5337 266-5337 (309)

MCB-on-Main, MCB-on-Main, 1301 1301 S. Main S.S.Main St. St.St. MCB-Downtown, MCB-Downtown, 218218 N. N.N.Main St. St. MCB-on-Main, 1301 Main MCB-Downtown, 218Main Main St. MCB-on-Main, 1301 S. Main St. MCB-Downtown, MCB-Downtown, 218 N. Main St. MCB-on-Main, 1301 S. Main St. 218 N. Main St. MCB-on-Main, 1301 S. Main St. St. MCB-Downtown, 218218 N. Main St. St. MCB-on-Main, 1301 S. Main MCB-Downtown, N. Main MCB-on-Main, 1301 S. Main St. MCB-Downtown, 218 N. Main St.

EachEach month month at Hospitality atatHospitality Days, Days, MCB MCB Each month Hospitality Days, MCB Each month atfree Hospitality Days, MCB Each month at Hospitality Days, MCB “Goldens” “Goldens” enjoy enjoy free coffee coffee and and donuts donuts and and “Goldens” enjoy free coffee and donuts and EachEach month at Hospitality Days, MCB month at Hospitality Days, MCB “Goldens” enjoy free coffee and donuts and “Goldens” enjoy freespecial coffee and donuts and sometimes sometimes special speakers, speakers, such such as as sometimes special speakers, such as “Goldens” enjoyenjoy free coffee andand donuts andand Each month Hospitality Days, MCB “Goldens” free coffee donuts sometimes speakers, such as sometimes special speakers, such as Congressman Congressman Ray Ray LaHood. LaHood. US Secretary ofatspecial Transportation Ray LaHood. sometimes special speakers, such as Hometown Hometown Community Community Bank Bank locations locations alsoalso in East ininEast Peoria, Peoria, Peoria, Peoria, Pekin, Pekin, Bartonville, Bartonville, Hometown Community Bank locations also East Peoria, Peoria, Pekin, Bartonville, “Goldens” enjoy free coffee and donuts sometimes special speakers, suchLaHood. asand US Secretary of Transportation Ray US Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood. Hometown Community Bank locations also in East Peoria, Peoria, Pekin, Bartonville, Minier, Minier, Washington/Sunnyland, Washington/Sunnyland, Eureka, Eureka, Roanoke-Benson, Roanoke-Benson, Manito, Manito, Elmwood, Elmwood, Hometown Community Bank locations also inPeoria, East Peoria, Peoria, Pekin, Bartonville, Congressman Rayspeakers, LaHood.such Minier, Washington/Sunnyland, Eureka, Roanoke-Benson, Manito, Elmwood, Farmington, US Secretary Hometown Community Bank locations also in East Peoria, Tremont, Pekin, Bartonville, sometimes special as of Transportation Ray LaHood. Hometown Community Bank locations also in East Peoria, Peoria, Pekin, Bartonville, Hometown Community Bank locations also inand East Peoria, Peoria, Pekin, Bartonville, Minier, Washington/Sunnyland, Eureka, Roanoke-Benson, Manito, Elmwood, Farmington, Minier, Washington/Sunnyland, Eureka, Roanoke-Benson, Manito, Elmwood, Farmington, Farmington, Farmington, Lacon, Lacon, Minonk Minonk and Princeville. Princeville. Lacon, Minonk, Princeville, Spring Bay, Toluca, Washburn, Macomb, and Roseville Minier, Stanford, Washington/Sunnyland, Eureka, Roanoke-Benson, Manito, Elmwood, Farmington, Congressman Ray LaHood. Minier, Washington/Sunnyland, Eureka, Roanoke-Benson, Manito, Elmwood, Minier, Washington/Sunnyland, Eureka, Roanoke-Benson, Manito, Elmwood, Farmington, Hometown Community Bank locations also in East Peoria, Peoria, Pekin, Bartonville, Lacon, Minonk, Princeville, Spring Bay, Toluca, Washburn, Macomb, and Roseville Lacon, Minonk, Princeville, Spring Bay, Toluca, Washburn, Macomb, and Roseville Lacon, Minonk, Princeville, Spring Bay, Toluca, Washburn, Macomb and Roseville www.hometownbanks.com www.hometownbanks.com www.hometownbanks.com Farmington, Lacon, Minonk and Princeville. Minier, Washington/Sunnyland, Roanoke-Benson, Manito, Elmwood, Lacon, Minonk, Princeville, SpringEureka, Bay, Toluca, Washburn, Macomb, and Roseville www.hometownbanks.com www.hometownbanks.com www.hometownbanks.com www.hometownbanks.com Farmington, Lacon, Minonk and Princeville. www.hometownbanks.com

www.hometownbanks.com

MCB’s Cliff Hasselbacher andJean Jean Ann MCB’s MCB’s CliffCliff Hasselbacher Hasselbacher andand Jean AnnAnn MCB’s Cliff Hasselbacher andand Jean Ann MCB’s Cliff Hasselbacher and Jean Ann Honegger celebrate Morton’s and MCB’s Honegger Honegger celebrate celebrate Morton’s Morton’s and MCB’s MCB’s MCB’s Cliff Hasselbacher and Jean AnnAnn MCB’s Cliff Hasselbacher and Jean Honegger celebrate Morton’s and MCB’s Honegger celebrate Morton’s and MCB’s old-world heritage andspirit. spirit. Join Us! old-world old-world heritage heritage and and spirit. Join Join Us! Us! Our Community Bulletin Board welcomes Honegger celebrate Morton’s and MCB’s Hometown Community Bancorp Chairman Our Our Community Community Bulletin Bulletin Board Board welcomes welcomes Hometown Hometown Community Community Bancorp Bancorp Chairman Chairman MCB’s Cliffcelebrate Hasselbacher and Jean Ann Honegger Morton’s MCB’s old-world heritage and spirit. Joinand Us! old-world heritage and spirit. Join Us! Our Community Bulletin Board welcomes Community Bulletin Board welcomes people town, congratulates areabusinesses businesses and Hometown Community Bancorp Chairman old-world heritage andMorton’s spirit. Join Us! Hometown Community Bancorp Chairman Gordon Honegger congratulates Cliff Hasselbacher people people toOur town, toto town, congratulates congratulates area area businesses andand Gordon Gordon Honegger Honegger congratulates congratulates Cliff Cliff Hasselbacher Hasselbacher Honegger celebrate andJoin MCB’s old-world heritage and spirit. Us! Our Community Bulletin Board welcomes Hometown Community Bancorp Chairman Member Bulletin Board welcomes people toOur town, congratulates area businesses and and people toCommunity town, congratulates area businesses Hometown Community Bancorp Chairman announces birthdays, anniversaries and community Gordon Honegger congratulates Cliff Hasselbacher Gordon Honegger congratulates Cliff Hasselbacher on his 50 plus years of hometown banking…one announces announces birthdays, birthdays, anniversaries anniversaries and and community community on his on 50 his plus 50 plus years years of hometown of hometown banking…one banking…one old-world heritage and spirit. Join Us! people to town, congratulates area businesses and Gordon Honegger congratulates Cliff Hasselbacher Our Community Bulletin welcomes people toCall town, congratulates area businesses and birthdays, and community Community Bancorp Chairman announces birthdays, community events. Call ustoanniversaries toput yourand message. Honegger Cliff Hasselbacherannounces onGordon his 50 years ofcongratulates hometown banking…one on his 50 plus years ofMCB hometown banking…one of many loyal employee-owners. events. events. Call us toanniversaries us put upput your upupBoard your message. message. ofHometown many of plus many loyal loyal MCB employee-owners. employee-owners. announces birthdays, anniversaries and community onGordon his plus years ofMCB hometown banking…one people to town, congratulates area businesses and announces birthdays, anniversaries and community events. Call us to put up your message. Honegger congratulates Cliff Hasselbacher events. Call us to put up your message. onof50 his 50 plus years of hometown banking…one many loyal MCB employee-owners. of many loyal MCB employee-owners. events. Call us tousput up your message. many loyalloyal MCB birthdays, anniversaries and community events. Call to put up your message. onofhis plus years of employee-owners. hometown banking…one announces of50many MCB employee-owners. events. Call us to put up your message. of many loyal MCB employee-owners.

FDIC

table of contents 5

CommunityLink.com

1 800-455-5600

production

production manager

director of publication design

managing editor

proofreader

director of photography

photography

MATT PRICE Amanda White Laura Wilcoxen christina reese kacey wolters morton public library jjsteffen

morton chamber of commerce don pyles

cover design

lead design

GIS specialist

V gallery amanda white joe goetting Nathan Faltus

web site creation & support JOSH CHANDLER director of media purchasing DIANA VAUGHN

business development director of business development

Homes morton is an easy sell

George Prudhomme

director of outside sales

vp chief sales officer

vp chief marketing officer

Joe Jaggie

director of project development

Todd Ellis

marketing specialist

Shawna Williams

marketing concultant

debbie moss Tom Hoyt

Charlie Rogers

business development manager

Bonnie Ebers

customer service director

kathy Risley

ad design

ad research

advertising

location & history from pottery to pumpkins: a progressive community

ad traffic

administrative support

account support

JOSh Mueller Mary kopshever Amy SchwartzkoPf Carol Smith

administrative support

education local schools give students the keys to sustained success

business notes

Kathy Hagene carol Smith Terri Ahner Tricia Cannedy

human resources assistant

mailroom technician

publishing systems specialist

chairman and founder

Craig Williams

chief financial officer

Rhonda Harsy

Teresa craig melinda bowlin

information technology

morton facts & stats

christopher miller

executive leadership

health care top-quality treatments

recreation & entertainment

fitness, fun, & festivals

membership directory

ABOUT This book is published by CommunityLink and distributed through the Morton Chamber of Commerce. For advertising information or questions or comments about this book, contact CommunityLink at 800-455-

5600 or by e-mail at info@CommunityLink.com. FOR INFORMATION Morton Chamber of Commerce, 415 W. Jefferson St., Morton, IL 61550, phone 309-263-

2491, fax 309-263-2401, www.mortonchamber.org © 2010 Craig Williams Creative, Inc., 4742 Holts Prairie Road, Post Office Box 306, Pinckneyville, IL 62274-0306, 618-357-8653. All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher.

index of advertisers www.mortonchamber.org

Homes

morton is an easy sell

Looking to relocate to Morton? There are homes available in every style, from bungalows and ranch homes to two-story homes, tri-levels, and quad-levels. Condos and duplexes are also available, with a wide variety of price ranges.

By Jennifer Bull

Aaron Miller, an agent for Coldwell Banker, says that people looking for homes in the region often pick Morton. “When I have buyers looking in different areas and they are considering Morton, I get almost all of them into Morton because Morton is such an easy sell,” he said. “It has the lowest tax rate around, the best schools around, our prices hold, [and] our average sale to list price is above the local market, so that’s always good. “When they go to resell their home, they generally get more for it,” he continued. “Also, when they go to sell, their homes are on the market fewer days. In 2009 the market was down everywhere, but our median sold price rose 2 percent, which is pretty good. That goes to Morton as a community as well.” Indeed, Miller lists a plethora of reasons why Morton is a great community for folks of all ages and stages. Morton has all kinds of sports activities for the kids; a quality art community, ranging in indoor displays to free concerts in the park; and for those who love the outdoors, walking trails and a dog park add to the appeal. “There’s always something happening in the community,” Miller added. “We have 30 some restaurants, so you have your pick of foods from fast food all the way to family dining. We have all different kinds — from pizza to Chinese — you name it, we have it. And we have the best chili dogs around!” But a true sense of coming home is what really seems to make Morton such a welcoming place. “The feeling of community is what helps sell the homes to people and what attracts people to Morton. They may come for other reasons, but that is what they are going to end up enjoying,” Miller concluded.

Photo courtesy of JJsteffen

Average Listing Price – Morton, Illinois # bedrooms

price

2 bedrooms

$122,173

3 bedrooms

$214,358

4 bedrooms

$268,458

All properties

$346,256 Source: Trulia Real Estate Search, week of February 10, 2010.

Morton Chamber of Commerce

chapter

www.mortonchamber.org

Location & History

chapter

from pottery to pumpkins: a progressive community

Photo courtesy of Morton Public Library Conibear Collection

How do you become the Pumpkin Capital of the World? Well, first, you start off with pottery. By Jennifer Bull

Settled in the 1800s, Morton was known for the bricks and drainage tiles made by the Rapp & Brick Tile Works; the land around Morton was drained using the tiles in the late 1800s. This early industry helped to reveal amply fertile farmland. The tile works branched out into a pottery business for kitchen crockery and utensils, an industry that hit its peak in the 1950s. Enter the transition from pottery to pumpkins. In the 1920s a canning plant was developed and was a great boon to the community. This plant is now owned by Nestlé USA/ LIBBY’S and is engaged in pumpkin packing. According to LIBBY’S, about 5,000 acres of the rich farmland of the region is devoted to producing the pumpkins for the plant, and more than 80 percent of the world’s canned pumpkin is supplied by the plant, making Morton, Illinois, the world’s top producer of pumpkin products. Celebrating this distinction during the annual Pumpkin Festival,

Morton Chamber of Commerce

Morton is proud to be called the “Pumpkin Capital of the World.” The 1950s brought international powerhouse Caterpillar Inc. to Morton. Caterpillar’s Worldwide Parts and Distribution Center Headquarters employs over 3,000 people in the region, providing a rock-solid foundation for the local economy.

Chicago Aurora

Morton

Peoria

Bloomington Champaign Springfield

Education local schools give students the keys to sustained success

chapter

daycare & preschool Morton has a wide variety of child care and preschool options for our youngest learners, including The Pumpkin Place, which offers child care, preschool, before- and afterschool care, and summer programs for children ages 6 weeks to 12. Their large facility, located on South Main Street, has spacious classrooms, a large playground, and a new indoor recreation room used during the winter for active play. They also have an underground safety shelter to protect children from severe weather. The Pumpkin Place is a popular option for many of our local families.

Pumpkin Place 1820 S. Main Street, Morton 309-263-8222

Morton School District 709 www.morton709.org By Carol Jankowski, District 709

Morton Unit School District 709 serves the communities of Morton and Groveland. There are about 2,750 students enrolled in early childhood through 12th grade. There are four elementary schools: Lettie Brown, Grundy, Jefferson, and Lincoln. District 709 elementary students consistently perform at a high level on the ISAT (Illinois Standards Achievement Test). Innovative methods and programs are in place to ensure this success continues.

Curriculum Mapping and Differentiated Instruction Curriculum mapping, along with differentiated instruction, are two of the initiatives that make District 709 an academically excellent school system.

Innovative methods and programs are in place to ensure this success continues.

District 709 teachers use curriculum mapping in all grade levels. Curriculum mapping documents what the teacher completed and how the material was assessed. A curriculum map shows what was actually done; not just what was planned. Teachers have access to all “maps” so they can create horizontal and vertical alignment. Horizontal alignment happens when the material that is actually taught in a specific grade level is the same in every classroom in the district, regardless of the teacher or the building. Vertical alignment occurs when the curriculum transitions smoothly from one grade level to the next. Curriculum maps help this process because they document the topics that have been covered and they help teachers ensure that the topics are covered as efficiently as possible, without redundancy. Differentiated instruction means teachers offer different activities in the classroom to meet the needs of different learning styles and different learning levels. www.mortonchamber.org

Morton Junior High After grade school, students in District 709 advance to Morton Junior High, which consists of grades seven and eight. The Junior Potters have the opportunity to compete in various athletics and participate in many clubs. MJHS uses MAP testing to assist each student as they prepare for high school. The principal and assistant principal at MJHS meet with each student individually to establish goals for MAP testing and how to improve those test scores. Morton High School Morton High School offers more than 150 courses — 25 of which are honors levels that are audited for rigor every five years. MHS also offers dual-credit classes with Illinois Central College. MHS is one of the state leaders in the Project Lead the Way curriculum. This preengineering program was established to assist schools in developing students with the knowledge needed to succeed in engineering and technology-based careers. MHS has been recognized and rated as a high-performing high school by the Chicago Sun

Times and most recently received the 2010 Red Quill Award from the ACT Midwest Regional Office. The award was created to recognize schools that are taking an innovative approach to improve their curriculum and have shown consistent growth in student ACT scores over time. Students at MHS are encouraged to excel outside the classroom, too. They participate in many clubs, organizations, and athletics. MHS is proud to have a strong music tradition. The MHS marching band has been crowned state champions for several years and were invited to march in the 2009 inaugural parade for President Barack Obama. The orchestra program is one of the strongest in downstate Illinois, with more that 90 students. In fact, about 25 percent of MHS students are enrolled in formal music training at MHS. Morton District 709 is proud to continue providing “excellence in education.” For more information about District 709 and each individual school, go to www.morton709.org. Each school has an individual page.

hoMe of the Potters Morton was home to a large ceramic industry in the early and mid-1900s. In fact, Morton housed the largest kiln pottery west of New York City until the late 1960s. Many of the ceramics made in the 1950s are collector’s pieces today. This history of pottery and ceramics accounts for the school’s nickname, The Potters.

Morton Chamber of Commerce

Higher Education

Bradley University www.bradley.edu

Illinois State University www.ilstu.edu

By kathy conver, bradley university By kathy beal, isu

The oldest and one of the largest public universities in Illinois, Illinois State University is a comprehensive, residential university with six colleges and 35 academic departments/ schools, offering more than 198 fields of study in undergraduate and graduate programs. The university was founded in 1857, with the assistance of attorney Abraham Lincoln, as a normal school to educate teachers.

Bradley University is a premier mid-sized private university offering more than 100 undergraduate programs, 30 graduate programs, 240 student organizations, and a myriad of research and creative activities for students to pursue any passion. Bradley’s tradition of excellence continues with its dedication to scholarship and student opportunities, the $200 million renaissance of new campus facilities, and the development of progressive academic offerings, including entrepreneurship, sports communication and interactive media concentrations, a Doctor

of Physical Therapy, the Theresa S. Falcon Executive MBA, and the Pre-Law Center. Bradley is ranked sixth among Midwestern comprehensive universities in U.S. News & World Report’s “America’s Best Colleges” and is listed as one of the 50 best values among private universities by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance.

Illinois State has been listed as one of 100 best values in public universities in the country for the past six years by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine.

The university is centrally located between Chicago and St. Louis in the twin city communities of Bloomington-Normal (population 123,000). The campus has close to 1,000 acres with more than 140 buildings, including Bone Student Center and Braden Auditorium, which seats 3,500; Redbird Arena, which seats 10,200; Milner Library, with a collection of more than 3 million items; the Center for the Performing Arts, with an 830-seat concert hall and a 450-seat theater; and a 360-acre farm in Lexington. Students participate in more than 250 student organizations that offer recreational, entertainment, social, religious, and general interest activities, including 19 fraternities, 15 sororities, and more than 25 honorary associations. Illinois State has been listed as one of 100 best values in public universities in the country for the past six years by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine. The university has retained its third-tier ranking for eight years in U.S. News and World Report. www.mortonchamber.org

Illinois Central College www.icc.edu By Cheryl M. Fliege, Ph.D., ISU

a wide range of topics, from travel and antiques to fitness and cooking. The Professional Development Institute offers continuing education to business and industry. High school students can participate in dual-credit offerings that allow them to earn college and high school credit at the same time. College for Kids offers younger students summer programs in language, computers, performing arts, and more. Competitive and intramural athletics for men and women and a multitude of clubs, activities, and recreation round out the full college experience.

With four campuses to choose from, Illinois Central College provides easy access for students who want to start a career or take the first two years of a bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree program close to home at a reasonable cost. Programs include agricultural and industrial technologies, arts and communications, business and information systems, English and language studies, health careers, math, science and engineering, public services and community outreach, and social sciences. The college also offers The college also offers a a broad range of services designed to accommodate students from all walks broad range of services of life, including a child care center, designed to accommodate a dental clinic, food services, health services, and weekend college. students from all walks of life. Adult Community Programs provide lifelong learning opportunities in

Morton Chamber of Commerce

Business Notes

chapter

morton facts & stats

Employment by Industry Trade, transportation, and utilities......................................................34,400 Wholesale trade: 7,500 Retail trade: 18,800 Transportation, warehousing, utilities: 8,100 Education and health services............................................................32,600 Manufacturing.....................................................................................27,900 Durable goods: 22,800 Professional and business services....................................................22,800 Government.........................................................................................21,700 Local: 18,100 State: 1,400 Federal: 2,200 Leisure and hospitality........................................................................17,300 Mining and construction.......................................................................9,000 Financial activities................................................................................8,700 Finance and insurance: 6,500 Other services.......................................................................................7,600 Information............................................................................................2,500

184,500

Total nonfarm..................................................

Source: Illinois Department of Employment Security, December 2009

Morton: Leading Employers

COMPANY

SERVICE

EMPLOYEES

Caterpillar Logistics

Parts distribution

2,000

Star Transport

Trucking/transportation

780

Matcor

Metal fabrication

445

Morton Buildings

Pre-fabricated buildings

332

G & D Integrated

Trucking/transportation

316

Morton Welding Company

Welding

300

Otto Baum Company

Concrete/masonry work; contracting

270

NestlĂŠ

Food production

225

Apostolic Christian Home for the Handicapped

Nursing home

150

Trucking/transportation

124

Air-Land Transport

CORE Construction

Construction

Parker Fabrication, Inc.

Pipe bending; metal work; electronics

21 Updated 6/2010

www.mortonchamber.org

Distance to Major Cities

Educational Attainment

City................... Driving Distance (Miles).........Days by Truck........ Days by Rail Chicago ..........................141.0................................. 1.................................... 1 Cleveland ........................439.0................................. 2................................... 1 Des Moines*...................... 274................................... 1.................................... 1 Detroit ............................385.0................................. 2.................................... 1 Indianapolis*...................... 206................................... 1.................................... 1 Kansas City .....................364.0................................. 1.................................... 1 Memphis . .......................432.0................................. 1.................................... 1 Milwaukee*....................... 231................................... 1.................................... 1 Minneapolis ....................433.0................................. 1.................................... 1 St. Louis .........................170.0................................. 1.................................... 1

Population 25 Years and Older

Source: Morton Economic Development Council *Source: www.randmcnalley.com

High school graduate or higher.................................89.1%.....................84.5%

.......................................................................... Peoria MSA.....................U.S. Less than 9th grade..................................................3.6%........................ 6.4% 9th to 12th grade, no diploma....................................7.2%........................ 9.1% High school graduate................................................31.3%.....................29.6% Some college, no degree..........................................23.5%.....................20.1% Associate degree.......................................................9.0%........................ 7.4% Bachelor’s degree.....................................................17.3%.....................17.3% Graduate or professional degree.................................8.0%......................10.1% Bachelor’s degree or higher......................................25.3%.....................27.4% Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006–2008 American Community Survey

Cost of Living

peoria Peoria MSA msa Composite................................................................................. 99.4 Groceries.................................................................................. 97.0 Housing..................................................................................... 94.2 Utilities.................................................................................... 111.9 Transportation......................................................................... 102.9 Health care................................................................................ 98.2 Miscellaneous......................................................................... 100.2

Income

Percent of Households

.......................................................................... Peoria MSA.....................U.S. Less than $10,000....................................................6.3%........................ 7.2% $10,000–$14,999....................................................4.7%........................ 5.5% $15,000–$24,999...................................................11.1%.....................10.6% $25,000–$34,999...................................................11.4%.....................10.6% $35,000–$49,999...................................................14.5%.....................14.2%

U.S. average for all indices is 100. Source: ACCRA Cost of Living Index, 3Q2009

$50,000–$74,999...................................................20.1%.....................18.8% $75,000–$99,999...................................................13.7%.....................12.5% $100,000–$149,999...............................................11.6%.....................12.2%

Population

$150,000–$199,999................................................3.6%........................ 4.3% $200,000 or more.....................................................3.0%........................ 4.2%

Morton.................................................................................................... 16,039 Tazewell County..................................................................................... 131,524 Peoria MSA........................................................................................... 372,487

Median income....................................................... $51,999.................$52,175

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2008 estimates

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006–2008 American Community Survey

Mean income......................................................... $67,379.................$71,128

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Morton Chamber of Commerce

Transportation

• Highway: Morton lies at the crossroads of Interstate 74 and Interstate 155, two heavily traveled routes with access across the nation. Morton is also home to four large logistics companies: CAT Logistics, G&D Integrated, Star Transport, and AirLand Transport Service. • Rail and River Access: Norfolk & Western Railroad and the Toledo, Peoria & Western Railroad provide railway service to the community, and several barge terminals are available along the Illinois River, just 10 miles away. • Air: Morton has three airports located within a 45-mile radius: Peoria International Airport (20 miles), Central Illinois International Airport in Bloomington-Normal (30 miles), and the Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport in Springfield (45 miles). The community is also three hours or less from Chicago O’Hare International Airport, the Lambert-St. Louis International Airport, and the Indianapolis International Airport. Area Accolades

• Top 10 Best Place to Live: Morton was recently recognized by greatschools.org as one of the top 10 cities in the nation to live in for great schools and moderate housing prices. • #1 High School in Tri-County Area: Morton High School ranked No. 1 among the high schools in the Tri-County Area based on 2009 PSAE Scores. Morton’s

Lincoln Elementary was ranked second in the Tri-County Area, beat out only by Washington Gifted, based on their ISAT Scores. • U.S. News & World Report Bronze Medal Winner: Morton High School was named a Bronze Medal Winner by U.S. News and World Report in December 2008. This award is based on standardized test performance, proficiency rates of all students, and a challenging, college-ready curriculum. • Chicago Sun Times Top Schools: Morton High School has repeatedly been named one of the top 50 high schools in Illinois. • Morton Library in Top 4 Percent Nationwide: The 2010 Edition of Hennen’s America Public Library Ratings (HAPLR) rated the Morton Public Library in the top 4 percent of libraries in its category in the United States. • Morton Public Works Recognition: The Morton Public Works Department has been widely recognized for outstanding projects and leadership at both the state and national level. The department received the Illinois Association of Water Pollution Control Operators’ “Plant of the Year” award in 1997. The same year, they won the American City and County’s “Gold Medal Government Award of Merit” for a storm water project. The department went on to receive the American Public Works Association (APWA) “Project of the Year Award” in 2004 and 2005. Sources: Morton Economic Development Council; Morton Chamber of Commerce

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Health Care top-quality treatments

Methodist Medical Center of Illinois www.mymethodist.net By Rosemary Stuttle

Methodist Medical Center, a 353-bed facility with almost 600 board-certified physicians, is taking central Illinois families well into the future. Methodist combines some of the most advanced health care information technology in the United States with the caring touch of private rooms and patient satisfaction scores that are among the best in the nation. A regional referral center, Methodist offers a wide range of services for patients of every age. Methodist’s nationally recognized Heart and Vascular Center includes the area’s longest-running open-heart program and stateof-the-art, minimally invasive vascular procedures. The Methodist Emergency Department, a Level II trauma center, has Peoria’s largest dedicated Chest Pain Center. The Methodist STAT Program helicopters heart attack patients to Methodist from throughout the region for immediate treatment.

Morton Chamber of Commerce

Surgeons at Methodist use sophisticated robotics to perform minimally invasive procedures, from prostate surgery to repairing damaged hearts. Other services include experienced pediatric care, advanced medical imaging technology, leading-edge cancer treatment, and the area’s most comprehensive behavioral health services.

Methodist at Morton offers quality medical care for all ages, from newborns to seniors. Methodist was the first hospital in downstate Illinois to be awarded Magnet designation for Excellence in Nursing Services, the nation’s highest honor in patient care. Methodist is the only hospital in downstate Illinois with Joint Commission Disease Specific Certification

chapter

for heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia, hip and knee replacement, and sleep disorders. Methodist is also a Joint Commission Certified Primary Stroke Center. Methodist Medical Group, a network of primary care and specialty physicians, has offices throughout central Illinois, including convenient Methodist MedPointe walk-in centers. Methodist at Morton offers quality medical care for all ages, from newborns to seniors. Pediatric and family physicians provide outstanding medical care by appointment. Or choose the convenience of MedPointe Walk-in Care, open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m.–7 p.m. and on Sunday from 9 a.m.–3 p.m., with no appointment necessary. Services include school, sports, and work physicals; well-baby check-ups; care for minor illness and injuries; preventive care to keep you at your healthiest; management of chronic illness; and lab, X-ray, and EKG services. Methodist’s mobile mammography van is available regularly. Methodist at Morton participates in most major health plans, including the Caterpillar network. It is located at 1909 N. Morton Avenue and can be reached at 309-263-9124.

OSF Healthcare By Shelli J. Dankoff

OSF Center for Health – Morton The OSF Center for Health – Morton, located at 435 Maxine Drive, offers a variety of convenient services, including pediatric, family, and internal medicine physicians; a home medical equipment store; and outpatient testing. In addition, the Illinois Neurological Institute sleep disorders center is located here. OSF Medical Group internal medicine, family medicine, and pediatric physicians provide primary care for patients of all ages. For minor illnesses and injuries that require attention when your doctor is not available, or if you do not have a doctor, you can visit OSF PromptCare. The OSF Home Care Services retail store can provide you or your loved one with the home medical equipment you need, whether it is oxygen, bathroom safety supplies, walkers, or more, to remain safe and comfortable at home. Outpatient testing offers many convenient services close to home, including lab, mammography, MRI, EKG, and PET scans. Physician specialists see patients here as well. The OSF Center for Health – Morton is committed to providing the best safe and quality care available for you and your family.

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OSF Saint Francis Medical Center www.osfsaintfrancis.org

OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, licensed for 616 beds and with a staff of more than 900 physicians, is the fourth-largest medical center in Illinois. A teaching affiliate of the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, OSF Saint Francis is the area’s only Level I trauma center. Many tertiary services available at OSF Saint Francis aren’t available anywhere else in downstate Illinois. OSF Saint Francis Heart Hospital provides comprehensive, state-ofthe-art services, from diagnostic testing to cardiovascular interventions and surgery. More than 35 cardiac specialists and subspecialists are on the Heart Hospital team. The Heart Hospital is Joint Commissioncertified for both heart attack care and heart failure. The Heart 777 Program, a regional response team for heart attack victims, has saved the lives of many. Children’s Hospital of Illinois www.childrenshospitalofil.org

Children’s Hospital of Illinois, a 127-bed hospital on the OSF Saint Francis Medical Center campus, has more than 100 pediatric specialists representing 27 pediatric subspecialties. It’s the first pediatric critical care hospital in the state and the primary pediatric teaching facility for the University of Illinois College of Medicine. Children’s Hospital is the area’s Regional Perinatal Center, with central Illinois’ only Level III+ neonatal intensive care unit. Children’s Hospital’s Heart Institute is one of the Midwest’s top pediatric heart surgery programs. The Pediatric Surgery Center brings together 10 surgical specialties, including the only pediatric neurosurgeon in Illinois outside Chicago. Children’s Hospital is also home to the only Pediatric Diabetes Resource Center and the only Congenital Heart Center in downstate Illinois. Children’s Hospital of Illinois has been ranked in the top 1 percent of neonatal intensive care units nationally. In late summer 2010, Children’s Hospital will move into its new home, a state-of-theart, 440,000-square-foot building adjacent to the existing OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in downtown Peoria. Illinois Neurological Institute www.ilneuroinstitute.org

The Illinois Neurological Institute (INI), located on the campus of OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, is one of the most comprehensive neuroscience centers in the Midwest. The institute includes over 60 neurological experts dedicated to caring for every aspect of your brain, spine, and nerves. The INI offers multidisciplinary neurological, neurosurgical, and rehabilitative care for adults and children. Designated a Level 1 Trauma Center and Primary Stroke Center, together INI’s highly trained physicians are prepared to respond to even the most complex

Morton Chamber of Commerce

neurological problems. The team has access to state-of-the-art technology, allowing them to rapidly diagnose and treat disorders of the brain and spine. Education and Research is a vital part of the INI’s mission. As a teaching institution, medical students, residents, and fellows are actively involved in all aspects of patient care. Research is also a major component of INI’s commitment to the advancement of neurological care, and patients may be asked to participate in clinical trials. Proctor first cAre & Proctor hosPitAL www.proctor.org By steve wilson

Proctor First Care provides a special touch for minor emergencies and routine medical care. Each Proctor First Care is staffed by a physician, nurse, and radiologic technologist. Proctor First Care physicians can serve as your primary health care providers for routine medical care such as physicals (school and work) and X-rays and laboratory services. The staff also treats minor emergencies and these are always a top priority. Appointments are appreciated, but walk-ins are always accepted. Proctor First Care also provides comprehensive occupational health services for workrelated injuries, D.O.T physicals, and drug and alcohol testing. Proctor Hospital plays a major role in the health and wellness of central Illinois. With the services of over 400 physicians and specialists, this 165-bed, all-privateroom hospital is home to state-of-the-art technology that includes the latest in digital diagnostic and interventional imaging, from cardiovascular to mammography services. For more information about Proctor’s comprehensive services, please visit them at www.proctor.org and on Facebook.

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recreation & entertainment chapter

fitness, fun, & festivals

throughout the year. The Freedom Hall community center offers a great location for meetings and family functions. The 2.5-mile paved Bike Trail also complements the existing park system and directly connects to the East Peoria River Trail. So whatever your family likes to do for recreation and exercise, the Morton Park District has a wide variety of park settings, facilities, and programs to meet your family’s needs. Morton Recreation Center / Indoor Soccer Arena Residents can find a wide array of fun activities at the Morton Recreation Center. The center’s fully boarded indoor soccer field features a new “Field Turf” playing surface. Measuring 166 feet by 80 feet, the field is used for indoor games for all age groups from October to April of each year. The field is also used for early-morning walking, children’s play group three mornings a week, and group rental use. In addition, the Morton High School football and soccer teams, Bradley University’s soccer team, and Illinois Central College’s soccer programs use the field for practice. The center has additional all-purpose rooms used on a year-round basis for a variety of adult exercise classes, children’s tumbling/dance classes, youth art/craft classes, and rental use for families and community organizations. get Active in Morton: the Morton PArK District www.mortonparkdistrict.com

Getting active has never been easier for the residents of Morton. The Morton Park District currently manages over 265 acres at 11 park locations, offering everything from nature trails and picnic areas to ball fields and disc golf. There’s even a dog park to keep man’s best friend fit and happy. Facilities include a wide variety of well-maintained open spaces

Morton Chamber of Commerce

and sports facilities, and the Park District offers a wide variety of diverse recreation programs for all age groups on a year-round basis. This includes athletic facilities for baseball (including an indoor batting facility), softball, football, soccer (outdoor/indoor), basketball, tennis, and pickle ball. The public facilities and fitness activities in Morton continue to get better and better. The new outdoor pool gives residents a place to cool off in the summer, and the Recreation Center provides indoor fitness opportunities

The public facilities and fitness activities in Morton continue to get better and better.

PuMPKin festivAL

biKe trAiL Bicycle enthusiasts will enjoy the Morton Community Bikeway. The paved 2.5-mile trail starts at the corner of Jefferson, Jackson, and Detroit streets. The trail head has parking space, a shelter, and a water fountain for trail users. The trail continues west from its starting point towards East Peoria and connects to the Fon-Du-Lac River Trail. A 0.5-mile extension along Veterans Road connects Westwood Park to the main trail. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the trail system, and “Dog Potty” stations are located along the trail route. Additional trail development is under consideration at this time.

Morton Family Aquatic Center The new outdoor swimming pool opened on Memorial Day Weekend. The facility has a variety of amenities for public and program use, including an eight-lane competitive pool with appropriate depth for starting blocks, a zero-depth wading pool with a built-in water playground, two medium-sized water slides, a deep end that accommodates a 3-meter high dive and 1-meter low board, a bathhouse, permanent shade areas, turf areas for sunbathing, and Wi-Fi for Internet users. “The new Family Aquatic Center offers a new and exciting swimming experience for residents of all ages and maintains the outdoor swimming pool as a focal point for families to enjoy summer activities in our park system,” said Gary Watson, Director of the Park District.

www.mortonchamber.org

When you’re the Pumpkin Capital of the World, you’ve got to celebrate your title. And for 43 years, Morton residents have done just that at the annual Pumpkin Festival, sponsored each September by the Morton Chamber of Commerce. This annual celebration has a variety of activities to enjoy from the traditional festival fare of games, food, and rides, to pumpkin pancake breakfast, to 10K runs. “Anything and everything you want pumpkin, we have it,” said Allison McDonald Vershaw of the Morton Chamber of Commerce. She isn’t joking either — they even have pumpkin chili and pumpkin baked beans. It’s a versatile fruit (not a vegetable!). As might be expected, the menu is a big highlight of the festival. In addition to the pumpkin ice cream and pumpkin chili, Morton’s favorite fruit dresses up such dessert delicacies as pumpkin fudge, pumpkin cheesecake, pumpkin cookies, pumpkin donuts and, of course, pumpkin pie! And there is the ever-popular pumpkin cookery

“Anything and everything you want pumpkin, we have it.” contest, in which contestants have to have a certain amount of pumpkin in their dishes to qualify for the contest. Joining pumpkin on the menu are traditional festival foods like brats, hot dogs, and the festival’s worldfamous butterfly pork chops. There’s plenty to do besides sampling the pumpkin palette. There are rides that cater to everyone from little kids all the way up to adults, a parade, an annual run/walk, a craft show with over 125 crafters, a princess pageant, entertainment throughout the fair, plus much, much more. Of course, no pumpkin festival would be complete without a pumpkin contest. “We have a pumpkin weigh-off competition where we have king pumpkins, queen pumpkins, and baby pumpkins. We’ve had pumpkins in the thousand-pound range,” Vershaw said. This annual event is familyfriendly fun, and the Chamber is waiting to welcome you to the 2010 festival, scheduled for September 15–28. “Our theme in 2010 is Pumpkin Splash, to celebrate the new Morton aquatic pool that opened in May,” Vershaw said.

• AREA’S BEST LODGING VALUE • FANTASY SUITE • LARGE MICROWAVE/REFRIGERATOR • INDOOR POOL • DELUXE CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST • LAUNDRY FACILITY • GROUP & CORPORATE RATES AVAILABLE • FREE HIGH-SPEED WIRELESS INTERNET

DAYS INN OF MORTON

Tel: 309.266.9933 • Fax: 309.266.9483 150 W. Ashland Street (I-74 Exit 102) Morton, Illinois 61550 800.DAYSINN

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hunting AnD fishing The natural resources of Morton offer residents and visitors plenty of lakes, rivers, and wildlife areas. Those who wish to hunt or fish have a wide variety of venues to choose from, depending on what type of prey they are looking for. Waterfowl, deer, squirrel, dove, turkey, rabbit, quail, and pheasant hunting are some of the game available. Fishermen can catch largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, crappie, channel catfish, walleye, and northern pike. For detailed information on hunting and fishing destinations, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ website at http://dnr.state.il.us.

Morton, iL PunKin’ chucKin’ – Where AgricuLture AnD engineering go bALListic www.mortonmagnet.com/chuckin.php

Each October, contestants from far and wide flock to the Village of Morton’s annual Punkin’ Chuckin’ Contest to determine the answer to one of life’s great questions: Who can launch a pumpkin the farthest? The two-day contest includes competitive classes for trebuchets, catapults, air cannons, human-powered devices, and hand-tossed pumpkins in both youth and open divisions. This famous event has been featured in The London Times, Newsweek, Popular Mechanics, Sports Illustrated, and The Wall Street Journal. Morton’s own Q36 set a Guinness record for pumpkin throwing in 2001 with a throw of 4,491 feet, then returned to top it the following year with an incredible throw of over nine-tenths of a mile! Punkin’ Chuckin’ is the ultimate spectator sport, and everyone is invited to bring their lawn chairs and their appetites for two days of fun. Call the Village of Morton Tourism Department or visit the website for schedules, directions, and registration information.

Punkin’ Chuckin’ is the ultimate spectator sport, and everyone is invited to bring their lawn chairs and their appetites for two days of fun.

fAMiLy-frienDLy fun

In addition to the Park District’s many offerings, Morton has plenty of other familyfriendly activities. The five-screen cinema and a wide selection of restaurants make it a great “dinner and a movie” community. Morton also has a roller rink, a bowling alley, and fitness clubs that active families will enjoy. Sports fans will also want to follow Morton High School athletics, which offers football, basketball, volleyball, baseball, soccer, and softball. Whether it’s an evening at the bowling alley, a performance at the Bertha Frank Performing Arts Center, or events at one of the many churches in the community, there’s always something to do in Morton. greAt PeoriA AreA

Illinois River The Illinois River provides a great deal of natural beauty, not to mention water sports, fishing, and other recreational activities to the

Morton Chamber of Commerce

residents of Morton. This river also provides industry to the area, as well as scenic views from various vantage points. Journey back in time with a cruise on the Spirit of Peoria, an authentic paddlewheel riverboat offering overnight excursions, themed cruises, private charters, and sightseeing cruises. Peoria Zoo and Luthy Botanical Garden www.peoriazoo.org www.peoriaparks.org/luthy-botanical-garden

The history of the Peoria Zoo begins in the 1800s when a herd of elk was donated to the Peoria Park District. Today, this growing attraction in Glen Oak Park harbors over 100 different species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and fish from all over the globe — including some that are on the endangered list. June 2009 marked the opening of the zoo’s new “Africa!” exhibit, which offers a beautiful interpretation of Zambezi River habitat and includes popular African species such as the lion, rhino, zebra, and giraffe. The zoo is open year-round, hosting a variety of events and educational programs as it fulfills its mission to create connections that inspire an appreciation for the natural world. Visitors to the Peoria Zoo and Glen Oak Park will also enjoy Luthy Botanical Garden. Serene and inspiring, this 5-acre facility includes many beautiful outdoor theme gardens as well as a conservatory for vibrant tropical plant species. The garden hosts seasonal flower shows, special events, and educational programs for all ages. Wildlife Prairie State Park www.wildlifeprairiestatepark.com

A 2,000-acre zoological park that is home to over 150 animals and 50 different species, Wildlife Prairie State Park is the perfect place for animal lovers to observe and learn about wolves, bison, waterfowl, black bear, elk, cougar, otters, and other native Illinois species, as well as animals introduced by pioneers. Set in spectacularly beautiful natural surroundings, the park promotes a mission of conservation, education, and recreation. In addition to visiting the four-legged residents, you can enjoy fishing, 10 miles of hiking trails, the Pioneer Farmstead, and a ride on the park’s train. Dining choices are available on the park grounds, and a gift shop offers souvenirs. This haven for animal lovers even boasts something for those who need Internet access, as visitors can take advantage of a series of wireless access points.

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Baseball/Softball Fields Batting Cages Bike Trails Concessions Disc Golf Course Dog Park Exercise Facilities Fishing Football Fields Horseshoe Courts Meeting Rooms Nature Trails Open Spaces Picnic Areas Picnic Shelters Playground Restrooms Sand Volleyball Sledding Hill Soccer Fields Swimming Pool Tennis Courts

Morton Park District Parks & Recreation Facilities PARK NAME Bike Trail Birchwood Freedom Hall Horseshoe Idlewood McClallen Morton Recreation Center Northwood Oakwood Southwood Westwood

SIZE 2.5 miles 18 acres 1 acre 10 acres 40 acres 108 acres 17 acres 23 acres 48 acres

ADDRESS W. Jackson Street Birchwood and Detroit 349 W. Birchwood Jefferson and Seventh Greenwood and Fourth Jackson and Tennessee 324 N. Detroit North Main North Main South Nebraska V.F.W. Road

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Shopping Districts

Main Street Downtown Main Street in Morton offers a variety of retail shops specializing in apparel, gifts, health items, and beauty aids, as well as professional service businesses providing legal, financial, computer/networking, and hair styling. Dining options include locally owned restaurants for sit-down breakfast or fast-food chains for lunch on the run. Coffee and dessert shops are also nearby. Detroit Avenue As it runs north and south between West Jackson Street and South Main, Detroit Avenue provides a variety of auto sales and service-related businesses, including auto and motorcycle dealers, auto parts stores, and machinist services. Retailers along this stretch offer hardware, lumber, home improvement supplies, electronics, and farming/outdoor equipment. Beauty salons and florist services are available at the Jackson Street end. Morton Village Shopping Center Located at the north end of Detroit Avenue, this destination is anchored by big-box stores Kroger and Kmart but also includes a pharmacy, gift store, bank, chiropractor, travel agency, and a variety of other service businesses. Both Mexican and Italian restaurants are located in the immediate area.

Morton Chamber of Commerce

Field Shopping Center and South Main Merchants This area near Highway 155, exits 29 and 30, is home to specialty retail shops, including those dealing in custom jewelry, craft supplies, medical supplies, home theaters, furniture, and more. A cooking school, movie theater and restaurants add to the entertainment at the Field Shopping Center. Nearby restaurants and a movie theater complex at Field Shopping Center make this area popular for evening entertainment.

South of Courtland, near Interstate 74 exit 102, this stretch offers a number of quality lodging options to travelers. Both north of exit 102 and south of the interstate on West Jackson Street, approximately two dozen local and chain restaurants offer everything from sandwiches to classic American cuisine.

North Morton Avenue/Interstate 74 Along North Morton Avenue in the Courtland area, a Walmart Supercenter marks the beginning of growing retail opportunities.

Much of the entertainment in nearby Peoria can be found in the Peoria Civic Center. Opened in 1982 and upgraded and expanded in 2007, the Civic Center has over 900,000

It Plays in Peoria

Peoria Civic Center www.peoriaciviccenter.com

The Civic Center is a delight to sports fans, as it is home to professional hockey team the Rivermen and to the Bradley men’s basketball team.

square feet of space that includes a convention space, arena, and a theater — all under one roof. The Civic Center is a delight to sports fans, as it is home to professional hockey team the Rivermen and to the Bradley men’s basketball team. High school basketball fans flock to the area during the Illinois High School State Association Boys Basketball Finals. Musicians and comedians come to the Civic Center on a regular basis, providing a high volume of traffic for the Civic Center. Whether you like rough and tumble sports, ballet and symphonies, or everything in between, the Peoria Civic Center is a wonderful place to find entertainment that suits the entire family.

Inc., Peoria African American Hall of Fame Museum, Peoria Historical Society, and the Peoria Regional Museum Society, allowing them to combine and maximize their collective ability to serve central Illinois. The new Riverfront Museum will combine learning, culture, and fun. The museum will feature expansive art exhibits as well as educational opportunities that include a state-of-the-art planetarium, historical exhibits, Discovery Worlds for children, and the IHSA Peak Performance Center. A digital 3-D IMAX theater is also planned. Nearby, the Caterpillar Experience will offer a high-tech, interactive look at the company’s past, present, and future. Combined, the two entities and The Block’s retail storefronts will draw an estimated 360,000 visitors annually. Peoria Ballet

Peoria Rivermen Hockey www.rivermen.net

The Peoria Rivermen are the American Hockey League AAA affiliate of the NHL’s St. Louis Blues and have had a relationship with the Blues dating back to the mid-1980s. Since the team’s inception, it has been the launching point for a number of NHL players’ careers. Along with great hockey, the organization provides additional high-quality family entertainment in the form of special celebrity appearances and the Kids Konnected Captain’s Crazies program. The Rivermen are also very involved in the community through charitable acts and off-ice appearances, including promotion of their official charity, The Children’s Hospital of Illinois. The Rivermen play their home games at Carver Arena at the Peoria Civic Center, and a variety of ticket plan options are available.

www.peoriaballet.com

The Peoria Ballet is over 40 years old, and its annual performance of The Nutcracker is a holiday favorite. The Peoria Ballet also seeks to catch the attention of young art lovers and works to help underprivileged students and students with mental and physical disabilities through demonstrations for area children. With over 60 different dance classes designed for all ages and skill levels, the Peoria Ballet brings an appreciation of dance as a cultural art form to many local residents.

Peoria Chiefs www.peoriachiefs.com

The Chiefs, an affiliate of Major League Baseball’s Chicago Cubs, have Cubs legend Ryne Sandberg as general manager. Some of MLB’s biggest all-stars, including Albert Pujols, Dan Haren, and Yadier Molina have played for the Chiefs on their journey to the Big Show. With a long history and much support from the local area, watching the Chiefs play is still considered the summer pastime in the region.

Peoria Symphony Orchestra www.peoriasymphony.org

The Peoria Symphony Orchestra began in 1898, making it the 15th-oldest orchestra in the United States. The 80-member orchestra presents a seven-concert classical subscription series, pops performances, and student concerts annually at the Civic Center. The PSO attracts many world-renowned artists, such as Itzhack Perlman, Dudley Moore, Andre Watts, Jerry Hadley, Awadagin Pratt, Sarah Vaughan, the Atlantic Brass Quintet, and Eroica Trio. Peoria Riverfront Museum and Complex www.buildtheblock.org

A vacant block near Peoria’s riverfront will soon be home to a new center for the arts, education, and entertainment. Known simply as “The Block,” this 7-acre campus will be the eco-friendly home to both the new 81,000-square-foot Peoria Riverfront Museum and the 50,000-square-foot Caterpillar Experience. The project is a collaboration of Lakeview Museum of Arts & Sciences, Heartland Foundation, IHSA, Caterpillar www.mortonchamber.org

membership directory alphabetical listing

Cherrytree Kitchens (309) 897-2030 China Dragon (309) 266-0768 Chuck Hay Insurance Agency (309) 883-9224 Churchill Wealth Management, Inc. (309) 291-0411

1st Farm Credit Services (309) 266-7059

Classic Cutters Salon (309) 266-6115

Benckendorf & Benckendorf P.C. (309) 266-6121

Cleaning Solutions (309) 263-6634

Best Western Ashland House (309) 263-5116

A Perfect Promotion (309) 263-7832

Bethel Lutheran Ministries (309) 263-2417

Aaron Miller, Realtor (309) 678-0524

Billy Daniel Excavating (309) 263-7938

Ackerman Farms (309) 266-7459

Clifton Gunderson LLP 309-671-4500 CMFS Group (309) 263-0022 Colby Natural Health (309) 266-7363

Desserts Unlimited Inc. (309) 263-3510 Dicks Chiropractic & Acupuncture (309) 263-5588 Dirk Madison Agency American Family Insurance (309) 263-7683 Donald Baker, M.D. (309) 263-8173 Durbin Wellness Center (309) 263-4673 Durflinger Enterprises (309) 453-6817

J H Car Wash of Morton Inc. (309) 266-5011

Garber Heating & Air Conditioning (309) 266-9372

J.J. Braker & Sons, Inc. (309) 266-6447

Gold’s Gym (309) 263-4653 Goodwill Industries of Central IL (309) 682-1113 Grace Church (309) 266-9281 Grimm Brothers Trucking (309) 263-2390 Grimm Interiors (309) 266-5250 Grimms Inc. 309-266-7092

Binkley Jewelers (309) 263-1381

Edward Jones Investments Allan Hart (309) 266-7711

Ackerman Farms Downtown (309) 291-0459

Black, Black & Brown (309) 444-3108

Comcast (888) 736-6689

Eli’s Coffee Shop (309) 263-0507

H & R Block (309) 674-4832

Advanced System Designs Inc. (309) 263-7944

Bob Grimm Chevrolet (309) 263-2241

Community Harvest (309) 256-2174

Ellis Studios (309) 635-4102

Hardee’s (309) 266-9478

AECOM (309) 676-8464

BodySound Massage Therapy (309) 360-8031

AFLAC (309) 291-0798

Engineering Design & Development Inc. (309) 266-6298

Health Solutions (309) 284-0707

Brad Monroe State Farm (309) 263-2371

Community United Church of Christ (309) 266-7263

Agape Counseling (309) 263-5565

Brahler’s Truckers Supply (309) 284-0087

The Confectionery, Inc. (309) 263-8702

Envision Insurance Group (309) 263-8431

Alltrust Financial Management (309) 266-5400

Brandon Wood Retirement Center (309) 263-7341

CORE Construction (309) 266-9768 Cornerstone Architectural Concepts, Inc. (309) 387-2945

American Fire Service (866) 961-3987 American PC Solutions & ClearPath IT Solu (309) 266-7122 Ameriprise Financial ServicesGreg Nichol (309) 266-7171 Apostolic Christian Counseling and Family (309) 263-5536 Apostolic Christian Home for the Handicap (309) 266-9781

Buckman Photography (309) 263-8767 Business Communication Systems of IL (309) 266-9118

C C P Directions Studio (309) 266-9918 Carius Dairy Queen & Root Beer Stand (309) 263-7033 Casey’s General Store (309) 263-9007

Apostolic Christian Restmor, Inc. (309) 284-1400

The Catering Company (309) 678-9000

Aquatech Pools & Spas (309) 263-8233

Caterpillar Logistics Services, Inc. (309) 266-4602

Area Buyers Guide (309) 359-4561

CEFCU (309) 633-7110

Aupperle Construction (309) 266-7460

The Center for Prevention of Abuse (309) 691-0551

The Avenue Kitchens & Interiors (309) 266-8126

b Barbara Heer, Realtor (309) 264-6416

Central Illinois Business Publishers (309) 692-0686 Champion Fitness Physical Therapy (877) 348-8500

Morton Chamber of Commerce

Country Financial (309) 263-7811 Courier Publishing Co. 309-263-7414 Cracker Barrel Old Country Store (309) 263-2103 Creekwood Apartments (309) 263-2825 Cristy’s Tea Room (309) 263-2637 CSE Software Inc. (309) 263-7595 Culver’s of Morton (309) 263-5210 Cybernautic, Inc. (309) 827-8202

d Dakema Inc. (309) 266-5764 David Mills, CPA, LLC (309) 266-5700 David W. Kinsinger DDS (309) 263-8922 Day’s Inn of Morton (309) 266-9933

G&D Integrated (309) 266-1177

Coldwell Banker Devonshire Realty (309) 263-7400

AmerenCilco (309) 677-5516

Baymont Inn & Suites (309) 266-8888

DeJure Formal Wear & Bridal Palace (309) 263-8155

Jay Fox Insurance Agency (309) 266-7661 Jim Maloof Realtor (309) 266-9200 Jim Yordy (309) 263-2248 Jimmy John’s (309) 291-0000 John Myers (309) 263-7171 Johnson’s Floral (309) 266-7525 Joseph C. Zimmerman III DDS Ltd. (309) 263-8317 Journal Star (309) 686-3026 Joy’s Hallmark Shop (309) 266-5632

Heartland Bank & Trust (309) 263-8406

Kaiser Electronics (309) 263-7117

Erik C. Opperman DMD 309-266-5191

Heartland Chiropractic of Morton (309) 284-0494

Keach Architectural Design Inc. (309) 263-4545

Ewe-Nique Yarns Etc. (309) 266-9398

Heartland Veterinary Clinic (309) 266-5306

f Family Medical Equipment & Supply (309) 266-9979 Farm & Fleet of Morton (309) 263-0232 Farnsworth Group (309) 689-9888 FJT Office Supplies (309) 263-7130 Fliginger’s Outdoor Power Center Inc. (309) 266-5928 Floral Designs 309-266-9600 Focus on Eyes (309) 266-8881 Foster Jacob (309) 674-8129 Four Seasons Gutter Protection Co. (309) 694-4565 From the Field Culinary Center, LLC (309) 263-6020

Keith Engineering Design Inc. (309) 938-4005

Henry W. Rapp, Jr. (309) 263-1166

Keith Sommer, State Representative (309) 263-9242

Hissy Fits Children’s Shoppe (309) 291-0447

Keller Williams Premier Realty (309) 291-0100

Home Instead Senior Care (309) 263-4600

Kelley Construction Contractors Inc. (309) 346-6604

Hometown Pharmacy (309) 266-5315 Hometown Title Inc. (309) 266-6121 Hurckes Financial Strategies (309) 266-9474 Husch Blackwell Sanders LLP (309) 637-4900

i Illinois Central College (309) 694-5522 Investment Services (309) 263-3529 The Iona Group, Inc. (309) 263-4662 IRON-A-WAY Inc. (309) 266-7232

Kelley Construction Contractors Inc. (309) 346-6604 Kennel Lake Sportsmen’s Club (309) 266-9641 Kevin Littlefield DMD Ltd. (309) 266-6705 Kmart 309-263-2114 Knapp Johnson Funeral Home (309) 263-7426 Koch Konstruction Inc. (309) 925-5602 Koch Physical Therapy (309) 266-9757 Koener Electric, Inc. (309) 697-5550 Kreiling Roofing Company (309) 673-3649 Kroger (309) 266-5366 Kuhl & Company Insurance (309) 266-7300

Kultural Kids Learning Center (309) 266-9624

l L & F Electric Inc. (309) 263-1471 La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant (309) 263-7403 Laurus Strategies Financial Services (309) 282-6403 Lawn Doctor of MortonBloomington (309) 687-3727 Leman Property Management (309) 347-5984 Lennie’s Quality Meat Shop (309) 266-7265 Lighthouse Automotive Liquor Station (309) 266-5014 Lowell Schroeder, Realtor (309) 272-3527 Ludwig Mortuary (309) 263-2181

m Main Street Deli (309) 266-1169 Marie Fisk, Realtor (309) 453-2018

Midwest Hearing Center (309) 284-0164 Midwestern Wood Products (309) 266-9771 Mike Murphy Ford (309) 263-2311 Millennia Professional Services (309) 321-8141 Miller Paint Shop (309) 263-1231 Miller’s Isshinryu Academy (309) 256-7372 Miracle Method Surface Restoration (309) 657-2252 Mission Mart Thrift Store (309) 670-1176 Modern Methods (309) 263-4100 Monical’s Pizza (309) 284-0709 Morton Animal Hospital (309) 266-5378 Morton Buildings Inc. (309) 263-7474 Morton Coin Laundry (309) 263-8374 Morton Collision Repair Inc. (309) 266-5154 Morton Community Bank (309) 266-5337 Morton Community Bank (309) 266-5337

Morton Villa & Morton Terrace Care Centers (309) 266-9741 Morton Wireless LLC (309) 263-5200 MTCO Communications Inc. (800) 859-6826 Mullen’s Irish Pub (309) 267-6316 Multax (309) 266-9765

NCI Business Systems 309-266-6100 Nestle USA (309) 263-1601 NuTech/Saladmaster (309) 256-6804

o Oak Lawn Mobile Estates (309) 263-2271 OIC Group Inc. (309) 680-5600 Old Smokey’s BBQ (309) 263-2509 Orndorff Furniture (309) 266-8582

Morton Community Foundation (309) 291-0434

OSF Saint Francis Morton Health Center (309) 266-5405

Mary Kay Cosmetics (309) 359-5691

Morton Community Unit School District 709 (309) 263-2581

Otto Baum Company, Inc. (309) 266-7114

Morton Dental Center (309) 263-2781

Mathis-Kelley Construction Supply Company (309) 266-9733

Morton Development LLC (309) 698-3368

McDonald’s of Morton (309) 263-2402

Morton Electrical Design Inc. (309) 303-0969

Menold Construction and Restoration, Inc. (309) 263-8728

Morton Industries, LLC (309) 263-2590

Merle Norman Cosmetics/ Pumpkin Patch 309-266-9512 Merlin Birky (309) 266-7069 Methodist at Morton (309) 263-9124

Morton Kiwanis (309) 291-0434 Morton Machining LLC (309) 266-6551 Morton Mini Storage (309) 263-2929 Morton Optimist Club (309) 266-9224

Metropolitan Airport Authority of Peoria (309) 697-8272

Morton Public Library (309) 263-2200

Michael D. Risinger, P.C. (309) 740-2097

Morton Times-News (309) 263-2211

Midstate College (309) 692-4092

Morton Township Road District (309) 266-6445

Midwest Engineering Professionals, Inc. (309) 266-1117

Morton Villa & Morton Terrace Care Centers (309) 266-9741

S. A. Moreland Landscapes (309) 266-9162

Trillium Staffing Solutions (309) 263-2277

Professional Therapy Services (309) 266-5488

Safari Bowl (309) 266-7010

Trophy Pro Shoppe (309) 263-2333

Pumpkin Glass Gallery & Studio (309) 266-7884

Sally Renken, Realtor (309) 303-4449

Truck Centers Inc. (309) 263-4240

Pumpkin Place (309) 263-8222

Sam Leman Chrysler-Dodge (309) 263-2345

Pumpkin Postal & Gifts 309-266-6398

Scentsy Wickless Candles (309) 266-8885

Pure Essence Salon, Ltd. (309) 266-6463

Schaffnit Financial Group (309) 266-1444

q Quality Inn (309) 266-8310 The Quilt Corner (309) 263-7114

r R.A. Cullinan & Son, Inc. (309) 925-2711 Rainmaster Systems Inc. (309) 698-1997 Randall Grieder, CPA (309) 266-6104 RE/MAX Unlimited (309) 263-1400 Red Rock Bar and Grille (309) 263-6836 Regions Bank (309) 263-2100

Schooners of Morton (309) 263-9969

Renewal by Andersen of Central Illinois (309) 693-6707 RHMA (309) 263-2350

Papa Murphy’s (309) 266-7272

Risinger Brothers Transfer, Inc. (309) 266-9555

Parker Fabrication Inc. (309) 266-8413

RMH Foods (309) 266-1500

Pekin Country Club (309) 347-3144

Robert Schnarr (309) 263-1244

Peoria Siding & Window Co. (309) 699-9517

Roecker Consulting Engineers Inc. (309) 263-5656 Ronald J. Flanigan DDS (309) 263-7449

u University of Illinois Extension Tazewell County (309) 347-6614

Shannon Gaunt, Realtor (309) 256-5265

V Gallery Ltd. (309) 266-8877

Shear Perfection (309) 266-1000

Village Courts (309) 263-0222

Singsations (309) 370-8994

Village of Morton (309) 266-5361

Sprint Retail Store (309) 698-3085

Vintage Optical (309) 263-8611

Steak ‘n Shake (309) 263-4210

Stephens Electric (309) 263-2501

Wal-Mart of Morton (309) 263-7898

Steven Kimmey AgencyFarmers Ins. & Finan (309) 263-0099

Wayne Brinkman (309) 229-4056

Stress Busters Massage & Reflexology (309) 263-4491

William C. Johnson DDS (309) 263-0821 Wind Energy by Blackshor (309) 697-2003

t Tazewell County Asphalt Co. (309) 698-8404 Tazewell Floor Covering (309) 266-6371

Yogi’s Super Liquors (309) 263-8339

Technical Publication Associates, Inc. (309) 263-8792 Tender Care Animal Hospital (309) 266-1182

The Pet Pantry (309) 383-4145

Rotary Club of Morton

Thomas Davies PC (309) 266-6211

Pine Lakes Golf Club 309-745-9344

Roth Grain Co., Inc. (309) 266-5171

Todd Paluska Plumbing (309) 698-3376

Pizza Ranch (309) 263-1200

RSM McGladrey, Inc. (309) 671-8715

Training Domain (309) 266-6700

Prassas Co./Morton Plaza (847) 501-3232

Ruby Tuesday (309) 263-4477

Travelodge (309) 266-1600

Primary Care Chiropractic (309) 263-5698

Russ Crawford (309) 694-2827

Tri County Cleaning Systems Inc. (309) 266-5755

y Yellow Brick Boutique (309) 453-9260

TCRC (309) 925-2061

Thomas A. Krieg, Attorney at Law (309) 263-7500

We Care (309) 263-1015 The Whisler Agency (309) 291-0491

Suzi Davis Travel/ American Express (309) 263-8411

Relax Inn Motel (309) 263-2511

Paddy O’Flaherty’s Irish Pub & Eatery (309) 266-6919

Pepsi Americas (309) 266-2400

Tri County Water Treatment LLC (309) 688-1300

Proctor First Care (309) 263-4343

National City Bank (309) 266-7193

Markley’s Pest Elimination Services (309) 263-0341

Matcor Metal Fabrication (309) 266-7176

Pro Fab Inc. (309) 263-8454

z Zeller Electric Inc. (309) 263-2353 Zimmerman Autobody Inc. (309) 266-5017 Zobrist Construction (309) 263-1230

www.mortonchamber.org

index of advertisers Adult Care/Senior Living

Brandon Wood Retirement Center — Page 11 730 West Jefferson Street Morton, IL 61550 309-263-7341 fax 309-263-7831 www.brandonwoodretirementcommunity.com “We’re Still the Affordable Retirement Community!” • Spacious Apartment Homes • Studio Apartments • One and Two Bedroom Apartments • Utilities and Housekeeping Furnished • 24-Hour Security • Home-Cooked Meals • Retire in Style and Enjoy!

Attorney

Benckendorf & Benckendorf, P.C. — Page 11 100 N. Main Morton, IL 61550 309-266-6121 fax 309-266-8759 www.benckendorf.com • Complete Titlework and Real Estate Services • Wills & Trusts • Estates • Family Law • Divorce • Probate • Civil Trials & Appeals • Personal Injury

Automotive Repair

Morton Collision Repair — Page 8

925 Detroit Ct. Morton, IL 61550 309-266-5154 Towing 309-303-7329 fax 309-263-4772 www.mortoncollisionrepair.com Complete Autobody Repair and 24-Hour Towing Service.

Chiropractors

Heartland Chiropractic of Morton — Page 13 658 W. Jackson St. Morton, IL 61550 309-284-0494 fax 309-284-0385 heartland_chiro@yahoo.com www.heartlandchiropracticclinic.com

Construction/Contractors

Menold Construction — Page 4

880 West Jefferson Morton, IL 61550 309-263-8728 fax 309-263-2438 www.menoldinc.com • Full-Service Remodeling • Kitchens • Baths • Room Additions • Commercial Renovations • Complete Fire, Water, Storm Damage Restoration • 24-Hour Service • Board-Ups • Water Extraction and Drying • Contents Pack-Out Cleaning • Storage

Morton Buildings, Inc. — Page 10

252 West Adams Morton, IL 61550 309-263-3680 fax 309-263-4573 brian.hensley@mortonbuildings.com www.mortonbuildings.com Morton Buildings is America’s leader in post-frame, or timber-frame, steel-covered building construction. To serve our customers, we operate over 100 construction centers, six manufacturing plants, and have sales offices located in 36 states.

Tazewell County Asphalt Company — Page 3 23497 Ridge Road East Peoria, IL 61611 309-698-8404 fax 309-698-8431 • Commercial & Residential • Specializing in Asphalt Paving and Maintenance

Morton Chamber of Commerce

Todd Paluska Plumbing, Inc. — Page 3

101 Alvatine Ct. Washington, IL 61550 309-256-7500 fax 309-698-6613 A family tradition for 4 generations. Serving the tri-county area. 25 years personal experience. Specializing in residential backflow testing for irrigation systems, EMERGENCY water backup sump pumps $450 installed, residential repairs and remodel.

Cooking School, Bakery, Cafe, Catering

From the Field Cooking School — Page 11 2029 South Main St. Field Shopping Center Morton, IL 61550 309-263-6020 bturney@mtco.com www.fromthefieldcookingschool.com From The Field Cooking School offers fun, relaxing, hands-on cooking classes; corporate team-building & private group classes; as well as a cafe, bakery, catering services, & commercial kitchen rental.

Floor Coverings

Tazewell Floor Covering, Inc. — Page 11 419 West Jefferson St. Morton, IL 61550 309-266-6371 fax 309-266-9812 www.tazewellfloor.com Complete Floor Covering Service • Carpet • Vinyl • Ceramic Tile • Hardwood Flooring • Window Blinds

Furniture

Orndorff Furniture — Page 11 2125 South Main Street Morton, IL 61550 309-266-8582 fax 309-266-8584 orndorfffurniture@hotmail.com www.awfco.com

Health Care

Methodist at Morton — Page 23

1909 North Morton Ave. Morton, IL 61550 309-263-9124 www.MethodistMedicalGroup.org For all your health care needs! MedPointe Walk-in Care for minor emergencies, open 7 days with extended hours. Also Family Medicine and Pediatric physicians for outstanding family medical care by appointment.

Health & Fitness

Colby Natural Health — Page 4 Dentistry

Dr. Erik C. Opperman — Page 4

219 North Main Morton, IL 61550 309-266-5191 Conservative family dentistry in a warm, friendly atmosphere. Dental health comfortably restored and maintained in a patient, calm, and gentle manner. Cosmetic services available. New patients of all ages welcome.

Education

Morton Unit School District 709 — Page Outside Back Cover

1050 S. 4th Ave., Ste 200 Morton, IL 61550 309-263-2581 fax 309-266-6320 www.morton709.org Morton Schools have 2,651 students and 370 employees. The district has four grade schools, one junior and one senior high school, all with the finest education programs in Central Illinois.

Financial Institutions

CEFCU — Page 14

825 S. Detroit Ave. Morton, IL 61550 309-263-0009 800-633-7077 www.cefcu.com Full-service credit union.

Heartland Bank — Page 8

179 E. Courtland St. Morton, IL 61550 309-263-8406 fax 309-266-5770 www.hbtbank.com Heartland Bank is standing strong! With a long, solid history in community banking, we follow sound banking practices and are focused on serving our communities. We’re here for you!

Morton Community Bank — Page Inside Front Cover

721 West Jackson 1301 S. Main 218 N. Main Morton, IL 61550 309-266-5337 fax 309-266-8242 www.hometownbanks.com Serving our communities since 1960, Morton Community Bank is a locally owned and managed, independent, hometown, full-service bank … known for its local decisions, prompt loan service, community involvement, and reinvestment.

141 South Main Street Morton, IL 61550 309-266-7363 www.colbynatural.com Colby Natural Health offers a fine selection of vitamins, herbs, and health foods in a friendly and informative atmosphere.

Health care

Apostolic Christian Restmor, Inc. — Page 17

1500 Parkside Avenue Morton, IL 61550 309-284-1400 www.acrestmor.org Skilled nursing community with sheltered care, memory support unit, and skilled care enhanced by rehabilitation services, therapeutic recreation programming, and individualized, person-centered care.

Health Solutions — Page 13

1636 North Main Morton, IL 61550 309-284-0707 fax 309-284-0773 www.healthsolutions.net • Located inside of Gold’s Gym • Gonstead Chiropractic • Family Care • Workers Compensation • Auto Accidents • Rehabilitation • Sports Injuries • Weight Loss Programs • Functional Testing; Adrenals, Hormones, Thyroid Assessments Call or visit www.healthsolutions.net

OSF Saint Francis Morton Health Center — Page 7

435 Maxine Drive Morton, IL 61550 www.osfsaintfrancis.org • PromptCare - 309-655-2431 • Outpatient Testing - 309-683-4939 • OSF Medical Group Internal Medicine - 309-263-2424 Pediatrics - 309-263-8173 • Home Medical Equipment - 1-800-673-5288 • INI Sleep Center - 309-624-9960

Proctor First Care c/o Proctor Hospital — Page 6

621 W. Jackson Morton, IL 61550 309-263-4343 www.proctorfirstcare.com A special touch for minor emergencies and routine medical care. Primary care, episodic care, urgent care, and occupational health care. New patients are always welcome. Appointments accepted but not necessary.

Heating & Cooling

Garber Heating & Air Conditioning — Page 4

310 Detroit Avenue Morton, IL 61550 309-266-9372 fax 309-266-0742 www.garberheating.com Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer since 1972 known for service excellence and high quality standards in commercial and residential markets. Services include geothermal, hybrid heat, hi-efficiency furnaces, and customized metal fabrications.

Hotels/Motels/Bed & Breakfasts

Baymont Inn & Suites — Page 19

210 East Ashland St. Morton, IL 61550 309-266-8888 fax 309-266-8989 www.baymontinns.com/hotel/morton/31508 • Free Wi-Fi in All Rooms • Free Enhanced Breakfast • Microwave/Refrigerator in All Rooms • Heated Indoor Pool at Property • 32-Inch HD Plasma TVs in All Rooms • Fitness Room

Best Western Ashland House — Page Outside Back Cover

201 East Ashland Street Morton, IL 61550 309-263-5116 The Best Western Ashland House features high-speed Internet, meeting rooms for 5 to 500, a free hot breakfast buffet, indoor pool, restaurant, lounge, and was awarded the directors award for cleanliness.

Days Inn — Page 17

150 West Ashland Street Morton, IL 61550 309-266-9933 fax 309-266-9483 www.daysinn.com • Area’s Best Lodging Value • Fantasy Suite • Free High-Speed Wireless Internet • Deluxe Continental Breakfast • In-Room Microwave / Refrigerator • Indoor Pool • Laundry Facility • Group and Corporate Rates Available

Insurance

Jay Fox Insurance Agency, Inc. — Page 3

1058 West Jefferson Morton, IL 61550 309-266-7661 cell 309-472-7661 fax 309-266-8024 jay@jayfox1.com www.jayfox1.com Jay Fox State Farm Insurance is a multiple-line insurance agency that provides friendly and efficient service for all of your insurance needs. We can insure your life and just about everything in it!

Kuhl & Company Insurance — Page 18

632 West Jefferson St. Morton, IL 61550 309-266-7300 fax 309-266-5453 www.kuhlco.com Kuhl & Company Insurance is a nationally recognized independent insurance agency celebrating 31 years in business. We specialize in commercial, personal home/auto, and employee benefits insurance.

State Farm - Brad Monroe — Page 6

301 N. Main Street Morton, IL 61550 309-263-2371 800-827-1391 fax 309-263-1482 www.bradmonroe.org Providing Insurance and Financial Service since 1981. You will find great personal service and competitive rates at the Monroe Agency. We bring the slogan “Like a Good Neighbor, State Farm Is There” to life.

Investment

Ameriprise Financial Services — Page 4

126 South Main Street Morton, IL 61550 309-266-7171 ameripriseadvisors.com/gregory.a.nichols Greg focuses on personal financial planning for retirement, investments, estate planning strategies, retirement plan distribution, protection planning/ family security, tax management strategies, small businesses, retirement income strategies, and wealth preservation.

Jewelers

Binkley Jewelers — Page 8

105 S. Main St. Morton, IL 61550 309-263-1381 fax 309-266-7283 www.binkleyjewelers.com Fine Jewelry Custom Design and Fabrication Full-Service Repair Watch Batteries Located in downtown Morton for over 28 years Known for innovative design and exceptional customer service.

Manufacturing

Cornerstone Architectural Concepts, Inc. — Page 15

601 Flint Avenue Morton, IL 61550 O: 309-387-2945 F: 309-387-2136 info@cornerstonearchconcepts.com www.cornerstonearchconcepts.com Custom cabinets and moldings tailor designed and built with quality craftsmanship. By utilizing technology, years of expertise, choice of materials and finish, custom fits in any budget.

Pharmacy

Hometown Pharmacy — Page 18 201 South Main St. Morton, IL 61550 309-266-5315 fax 309-266-8907 htpharmacy@hotmail.com

Plumbing

Paluska Plumbing Services, Inc. — Page 4 206 W. Adams Morton, IL 61550 309-266-7243

Real Estate

Barb Fuller Heer Realtor, Coldwell Banker Devonshire Realty — Page 18

Broker, GRI, ePro 1216 Brentwood Morton, IL 61550 309-264-6416 BarbHeer@ColdwellBanker.com www.BarbHeer.com Dedicated to helping you create your future and committed to responding to your needs. Active in professional, community, and church organizations. No detail is too small for me to handle.

Coldwell Banker Devonshire Realty Aaron Miller — Page 2

113 North Main Morton, Il 61550 309-678-0524 aaron.miller1@coldwellbanker.com www.thinkbluemorton.com In the past 3 years, Aaron has been in the top 10% of realtors in the tri-county area, and recipient of numerous awards from PAAR and Coldwell Banker Devonshire Realty.

The Sandy Glover Team — Page 6

“Proven Professionals” 155 S. Main St. Morton, IL 61550 309-291-0080 or 309-208-6101 sandyglover@kw.com Invest your hard-earned money in a home memories are made of. From new construction to established neighborhoods, my team and I are dedicated to providing you with our knowledge, experience, and time.

Retail

Merle Norman / The Pumpkin Patch — Page 11

113 South Main Street Morton, IL 61550 309-263-7952 fax 309-263-0256 tbfb@comcast.net Try before you buy at Merle Norman Cosmetics. We offer many complimentary makeup and skin care services. The Pumpkin Patch offers coffees, cards, candles, and gifts for all occasions.

The Quilt Corner — Page 11

2037 South Main St. Morton, IL 61550 309-263-7114 quiltcnr@mtco.com www.thequiltcorner.biz Offering classes, fabric, books, patterns, notions, and wool. Authorized Handi Quilter dealer.

Yogi’s Liquor — Page 10 321 S. Main St. Morton, IL 61550 309-263-8339 2015 S. Main St. Morton, IL 61550 309-263-8884 • Beer • Wine • Spirits • Cigars • Lottery

Technical Writing and Artwork

Technical Publication Associates, Inc. — Page 11

P.O. Box 5333 Morton, IL 61550-5333 309-263-8792 tpainc@mtco.com www.tpainc.ws TPA provides technical writing, technical artwork, patent drawings, and ordinance codification services. We strive to provide creative solutions to what many people perceive as a problem.

Transportation

G & D Integrated, Inc. — Page 15

50 Commerce Drive Morton, IL 61550-9196 309-266-1177 fax 309-266-1451 www.gdintegrated.com Serving the Midwestern, Eastern, and Southeastern United States. Serving all Midwest Intermodal Rail Facilities. • U.S. Customs Bonded Carrier • Canadian Authority • Complete Chasis Inventory • Dry Van & Flatbed Service • Storage Containers

Veterinarian

Morton Animal Hospital — Page 3

Retail – Food

Lennie’s Quality Meat Shop — Page 11 654 West Jackson St. Morton, IL 61550 309-266-7265 • Black Angus Beef Certified by the USDA • Premium Quality Pork • All-Natural Chicken • Dixon’s Seafoods and Salads • Prairie Farms Milk • Danners Salads

657 West David Morton, IL 61550 309-266-5378 fax 309-263-5074 www.mortonanimalhospital.com Veterinary medical services for “all creatures great and small” because “the Lord God made them all.”

Tender Care Animal Hospital — Page 6

300 E. Courtland Morton, IL 61550 309-266-1182 fax 309-266-1432 tcah@mtco.com www.tendercaremorton.com Tender Care is a full-service veterinary clinic and hospital. Our facility also offers professional grooming and boarding services.

What more could you ask for? D I S T R I C T

7 0 9

1050 S. FOURTH AVE. MORTON, ILLINOIS 61550 PHONE 309.263.2581• FAX 309.266.6320

http://www.morton709.org

Travelodge 101 E. Ashland St. Morton, IL 61550 (309) 266-1600 • Free deluxe continental breakfast • Crib available at no charge • Pets accepted • Interior corridors • Cable TV • High-speed wireless Internet • Free newspaper/USA Today • Guest laundry

Best Western Ashland House 201 E. Ashland St. Morton, IL 61550 (309) 263-5116 • Children under 12 stay free • Free parking • Free high-speed wireless Internet • Fax & photocopy service • Complimentary airport shuttle upon availability • Complimentary hot breakfast buffet for 2 • Indoor pool • Fitness center facility • Game room • Paddy O’Flaherty’s Irish Pub & Eatery • Vending machines

Paddy O’Flaherty’s Irish Pub & Eatery Located in the Best Western Ashland House (309) 266-6919

Quality Inn 115 E. Ashland St. Morton, IL 61550 (309) 266-8310 • Outside garden area • High-speed wireless Internet • Free deluxe continental breakfast with fresh-baked Belgian waffles, fresh fruit and yogurt • Free local calls • Pets welcome • Refrigerator • In-room coffee maker • Hair dryer • Iron and ironing board