2015 Annual Report • Part 2

The Pantagraph • Sunday, March 22, 2015 • F1

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ANNUAL REPORT

SUNDAY, March 22, 2015

F1

MCLP fosters service, diversity Sonya Mau While living, working and playing in McLean County, we can encounter all the diversity of America. How do we build and sustain a community that includes every one of us?

The Multicultural Leadership P r o g ra m (MCLP), now in its fifth year, was created to help individuals d i s c ove r Sonya t h e i r Mau strengths and passions through service and diverse leadership experiences.

MCLP is a local, nonprofit community effort to develop leaders from our diverse population. MCLP is an intensive, eightmonth learning program for 26 participants. These leaders learn about themselves, see the rich diversity of McLean County through a variety of lenses and actually build community through hands-on team experiences with selected non-profit organizations.

After three years of program development, the first MCLP class graduated in 2010. Since then, 121 graduates have joined more than 78 local non-profit organizations in leadership roles. Some graduates have started their own initiatives, ranging from creating an annual conference serving a community need to increasing sponsorship for the organizations they support.

In one example, book bags an organization collected increased 10-fold (from 20 to 200) in the first year after the organizer graduated from MCLP. Comments from management and families about an MCLP graduate often describe changes in leadership style. For example, the graduate works better with peers, is more outspoken, more self-confident and listens better. The most striking quote is from the graduates themselves, who often say: “MCLP has been a transformative leadership journey. “ For each MCLP class, diversity works on many levels. MCLP expands a participant’s view of self and helps a participant understand how others can view the participant differently.

MCLP also provides participants with diverse perspectives about life and responsibilities from leaders in different fields, including health care, business, education, and government.

MCLP provides participants with a simulated experience of “grinding poverty” or “teams under high stress.”

Discussions can center on life as part of a majority versus life as part of a minority. Class discussions are enriched by the diverse backgrounds of the MCLP participants themselves.

Appreciating and including diverse views become especially important as each MCLP participant seeks the answers to three questions: Who am I? My values, my beliefs?; What are my strengths and passions?; and 3 What will I choose to do next?

Answering these quest i o n s i n c rea s e s s e l fawareness and leads to greater self-confidence SEE MCLP / PAGE F2

DAVID PROEBER, The Pantagraph

University Galleries senior curator Kendra Paitz, introduces LeRoy High School students recently to Juan Angel Chavez’s “The Hut” in his “Winded Rainbow” exhibition at the gallery in Uptown Normal.

Changes in higher ed ISU leader has ‘terrific” 1st year; IWU president prepares to say good-bye Lenore Sobota lsobota@pantagraph.com

One year ago, Larry Dietz stepped in to replace an Illinois State University president who had been on the job barely seven months and was about to face a criminal charge for an altercation involving another university employee.

“I don’t know how first years are supposed to go, but it’s been terrific,” Dietz said as he reflected on all that’s happened since the board of trustees named him ISU’s 19th president on March 22, 2014. “I think that fairly quickly we got back on track.”

Mea nwh i l e , I l l i n o i s Wesleyan University is in the midst of a search for its next president — amid none of the turmoil ISU faced.

Dick Wilson announced i n De ce m b e r t h a t h e would be retiring after 11 years as president. Wilson has said he will remain in office until his successor is in place.

LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER, The Pantagraph

Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner talks with Illinois State University President Larry Dietz, right, after addressing a group of about 350 citizens in February at the DoubleTree

by Hilton in Bloomington.

LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER, The Pantagraph

Sister Helen Prejean shares a story with Illinois Wesleyan University President Richard Wilson before speaking at the Illinois Wesleyan University’s Founders’ Day Convocation in Presser Hall’s Westbrook Auditorium.

That could be next spring, according to Matt Kurz, IWU’s vice president for communication.

The recently named search committee “expects to be working through the spring semester and over the summer,” Kurz said.

T h e co m m i t te e i s chaired by Jean Baird, State Farm vice president of operations, a 1980 graduate of IWU who serves as secretary of its board of trustees.

While one university welcomed a new president and the other learned it would be saying goodbye, 2014 was a year of

a cco m p l i s h m e n ts fo r both schools.

Each university had success with fundraising, an increasingly important activity for public as well as private institutions.

Illinois Wesleyan completed its multi-year Transforming Lives campaign, announcing in October a final tally of $141 million — $16 million more than its $125 million goal.

Illinois State raised a record $19.5 million in the last fiscal year, surpassing the previous fiscal year’s total of $14.8 million. And Dietz said the university is currently ahead of last

year’s pace.

ISU moved its University Galleries to the Uptown Station parking deck, with a grand opening in October that featured the work of artist Walter Robinson.

IWU began work on a four-story expansion of the Shirk Center.

Both schools made the top 100 in K iplinger’s Personal Finance “Best Value” rankings. IWU was 58th among private liberal arts colleges. ISU was 99th in the “public colleges” category.

In U.S. News & World Report’s national rankings, IWU was 73rd among best colleges and ISU was 74th among best public

universities.

Bringing stability to staffing was the first challenge for Dietz.

He had to name an interim vice president for student affairs to fill the vacancy created when he left that position to become president.

There was already an interim vice president of finance and planning. By the end of August, there were interim vice presidents of academic affairs and university advancement after those people l e f t fo r p o s i t i o n s a t other schools.

“All the interims have been doing a great job,” SEE CHANGES / PAGE F2

Bloomington grocery, uptown hotel highlight Twin City development Maria Nagle mnagle@pantagraph.com

BLOOMINGTON — An $18 million grocery store in Bloomington, a $25 million hotel in uptown Normal and a whole new way of viewing movies at two Bloomington cinemas were among the economic development highlights in the Twin Cities during 2014.

Opening last week, the Hy-Vee is the largest stand-alone supermarket in the Twin Cities. The employee-owned store has hired 615 people, including 133 full-time workers After the city approved building permits in February 2014, Iowa-based HyVee began repurposing the former 108,000-squarefoot K’s Merchandise building at 1403 N. Veterans Parkway.

Mayor Tari Renner said the city was excited to see the building that had been vacant for about eight years find a new life. “We actually didn’t have to give (Hy-Vee) any incentives,” he added.

The mayor also welcomed a new era of dine-in movie-going in the Twin Cities that the Bloomington City Council paved the way for in 2014.

The council approved liquor licenses for Georgia-based Carmike Cinemas’ Ovation 10, formerly known as the Palace Cinemas, at 415 Detroit Drive on Bloomington’s east side; and Bloomington’s west-side Galaxy 14 Cine, at 1111 Wylie Drive.

After seven months of extensive remodeling, Ovation opened in February, offering full food and adult bar service, from

CARLOS T. MIRANDA, For The Pantagraph

Carmike Cinemas’ Ovation Cinemas 10 makes its new mission of “dinner, drinks, movies” clear right up front, via the exterior makeover of the former Palace Cinemas on Bloomington’s east side. beer to wine to spirits, in every auditorium.

Meanwhile at the Galaxy 14 Cine, a $2.25 million renovation is expected to be completed later this year to create four adultsonly Five Star Lounges fe a t u r i n g m e a l s a n d

bar service.

“Ovation 10 is the only theater of its kind between St. Louis and Chicago, so I am very happy about that,” Renner said. “They invested about $6 million, and it also gives us, frankly, bragging rights as

we move forward. I want people from the entire region to come to Bloomington to watch movies in a different environment.”

In Normal, the construction of the Hyatt Place Hotel in uptown started in May, filling a big hole left at 200 Broadway for several years after a failed plan by a previous developer. Completion of the eight-story hotel with 114 rooms that Doug Reichl of Tartan Realty of Chicago is developing is expected this fall.

With construction of the second hotel underway in Normal’s uptown, Bloomington struggled to get a consensus to build one downtown.

In September, Renner disclosed a private developer was interested in demolishing the Front ‘N SEE ECONOMY / PAGE F2

F2 • The Pantagraph • Sunday, March 22, 2015

ANNUAL REPORT

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CHANGES FROM F1

Dietz said. “I don’t think we missed a beat.”

The next big challenge that faced Dietz — one that’s looming even larger in 2015 — is the budget.

Gov. Bruce Rauner has proposed a 31.5 percent cut in state appropriations for higher education.

“We knew the state was in a financially tough position,” Dietz said. “I was not expecting the 31.5 percent budget reduction.”

Dietz said “we’re scrambling” to determine how to absorb such a cut, which would amount to $23 million at ISU. Work will continue on various options as the university waits to see what figure the governor and legislators agree on, he said.

Last fall, Dietz made a commitment to bolster ISU’s international reputation. He wants to double the number of ISU students studying abroad within five years and double the number of international students attending ISU in an even shorter time frame. Currently, the number is about 400 each.

At most schools of ISU’s size and with ISU’s mission, 5 percent to 10 per- Follow Lenore Sobota on Twitcent of their students are ter: @pg_sobota.

STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph

Oasis Senior Center Executive Director Dom Dalpoas, center, and Bob Parrish, building and grounds chairman, discuss how they will display the Century Club sign at Oasis’ new location at 2810 Woodlawn Road in Lincoln.

Two groups focus on promoting Lincoln, Logan Mary Ann Ford mford@pantagraph.com

L I N C O L N — A f te r much discussion last year, Lincoln and Logan County leaders created two separate groups to focus on attracting businesses and tourists to the community.

T h e L o ga n C o u n ty Board and business donations provide funding for the new Logan County Economic Development Partnership. The Logan Co u n ty A l l i a n ce ge ts funding from Lincoln and the city’s hotel/motel tax.

Bill Thomas, executive director of the Logan County Economic Development Partnership, said the mission of that group is to “cultivate a business environment that enhances Logan County by expanding our local and regional economy.”

It focuses on all of Logan County, including Lincoln, he said.

One of the biggest projects for the newly formed organization was working with Cresco Labs, one of several companies vying for, and ultimately earning, state approval for a medical marijuana cultivation center.

“We worked very closely with the county board to

MCLP FROM F1

— important characteristics in times of crisis.

When there is no precedent, a leader must draw on his/her own inner values and strengths. A leader must draw on a network of diverse viewpoints to craft innovative solutions.

MCLP’s role is to provide a safe place for leaders to explore new perspectives, to experience and experiment, to make mistakes and learn from them. Each participant is surrounded by a class that supports each other’s leadership growth.

A few comments from our graduates that highlight the MCLP learning experience: “I learned that I could accidentally break a relationship and mend it again.”

“I learned that passion for a cause is not enough, there are collaborative ways to address different situations.”

“I have gained friends a n d ex p e r i e n c e s t h a t would never have been

LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER, The Pantagraph

The 78th Logan County Fair was held in Lincoln last year. help them with the permits,” Thomas said.

Now the focus is shifting toward getting the planned 40,000-squarefoot cultivation center built on land at the northeast corner of North L i n co l n Pa rk way a n d 1800 Street. The facility will bring 40 full-time jobs to the area, Thomas said. Work is expected to start soon.

The Logan County Alliance combined the efforts o f t h e L oga n Co u n ty Chamber of Commerce, the Logan County Tourism Bureau and Main Street Lincoln into one organization with a focus on Lincoln.

Executive Director Andi

Hake said one board of seven members replaced the three former boards.

The alliance also is creating several councils to engage community members in discussions.

“We’re in a transitional period,” she said, adding the goal is to have all policies and procedures in place in the next 12 months.

The alliance plans to hire a tourism bureau director and already has hired Cara Barr as fulltime events coordinator. Part of Barr’s duties include planning the Lincoln Art & Balloon Festival and Lincoln’s Pigs & Swigs.

O t h e r n ews i n t h e

international, according to Dietz. With international students making up only 2 percent of ISU’s enrollment, Dietz said, “There’s plenty of room to grow.”

ISU’s total enrollment last fall was 20,615 compared to 20,272 in 2013 — a 1.7 percent increase. Freshman enrollment jumped 20 percent, from 2,981 in 2013 to 3,589 last fall.

IWU’s enrollment fell about 5.5 percent, from 2,008 in 2013 to 1,895 last fall. However, international student enrollment continues to climb, with a record 74 incoming international students last fall compared to 49 in 2013 and 25 in 2012.

Dietz has done a lot of traveling in the past year, meeting with alumni and developing international partnership with trips to Washington, D.C., Chicago, Atlanta,Ga., Denver and Florida, as well as China and Panama.

“I’ve enjoyed seeing the smiles on everybody’s faces … when they talk about the important role the school has played in their lives,” Dietz said.

There is “a lot of pride and a lot of hard work” on campus, Dietz said, and “it’s very fulfilling to feel part of that.”

county in 2014 included the opening of a new location for the Oasis Senior Center. The original center was destroyed by fire in 2013. Officials credited the work of volunteers for helping turn the former Rusty’s Clubhouse, 2810 Woodlawn Road, Lincoln, into the new location for the center.

Meanwhile, after years of discussion and development, Logan County officials rejected (by a vote of 6-6) a plan by Meridien Wind Farm to build more than 80 wind turbines in the southern part of the county.

Follow Mary Ann Ford on Twitter: @pg_ford

MCLP’s role is to provide a safe place for leaders to explore new perspectives, to experience and experiment, to make mistakes and learn from them. part of my life if I had not been an MCLP participant.”

“MCLP’s challenging learning experiences helped me discover the leader I truly want to be.”

“I am a completely different manager.”

MCLP proudly invites you to join us on April 25 in Illinois State University’s Brown Ballroom to celebrate the graduation of the 6th MCLP class. Our graduates are our legacy!

Check us out at www. bn-mclp.org.

Sonya Mau is executive director of the Multi Cultural Leadership Program.

ECONOMY FROM F1

Center building, 102 N. Center St., to build a hotel with a conference center and a high-end restaurant there.

“We don’t know if that will happen,” said the mayor. “If it doesn’t happen this year it might take several more years, but at some point our downtown is going to underperform if it doesn’t have a hotel.

“There are many other projects in or related to downtown that we’ve been working on to try and grow the local economy faster than the national economic growth rate,” Renner added. “We have to leverage our strategic assets in downtown and our older neighborhoods. Those are the places that will give us the most progress or the most bang for the buck.”

Bloomington and Normal saw a number of new restaurants open last year, and national chains also announced plans for local eateries, including Chickfil-A at Veterans Parkway and College Avenue and Red Robin at 107 S. Veterans Parkway.

Both communities also faced some struggles in 2014, resulting in a year Normal City Manager Mark Peterson described

STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph

The new Hy-Vee store is in the former K’s Merchandise building at 1403 N. Veterans Parkway in Bloomington.

LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER, The Pantagraph

Wolverine Building Group of Kentwood, Mich., is building a Red Robin Gourmet Burgers & Brews restaurant at 107 S. Veterans Parkway, just north of Wild Berries restaurant. The 4,400-square-foot building is expected to open in the spring with a capacity of 168 seats. Red Robin, a casual dining chain based in Colorado, features a menu of about two dozen burger choices and bottomless steak fries; salads, soup, appetizers, entrees, desserts and a full bar. The property formerly was the site of The Signature Inn, which became the Howard Johnson hotel before it was demolished in 2013. Plans recently were announced for a Chick-fil-A at the property just north of Red Robin but no building permit has been issued for that project yet. as “a mixed bag.”

In October, the Bloomington Kmart store, which opened in 1962, announced it would close in mid-January. The discount store, 1608 E. Empire St., helped lead the move of retailers from downtown Bloomington to the east side.

Normal, meanwhile, saw a slowdown in new residential and commercial construction in 2014, Peterson said.

“We began to see a slow uptick in economic activity following the recession,” said Peterson. “It was slow and gradual throughout

2013 and much of 2014, but unfortunately, overall, the pace of the economy has leveled off.”

He noted both Normal and Bloomington have seen shrinking revenues from local sales, food and beverage and hotel/ motel taxes.

“It puts some pressure on our budgets,” he said.

Contributing factors, he said, were last year’s harsh winter and continued growth in online shopping, which has had an impact on municipal sales taxes not only locally but throughout the country.

“We began to see a slow uptick in economic activity following the recession. It was slow and gradual throughout 2013 and much of 2014, but unfortunately, overall, the pace of the economy has leveled of.”

Mark Peterson, Normal City Manager Despite last year’s challenges, “there are reasons to be optimistic through 2015 and beyond,” Peterson said.

Follow Maria Nagle on Twitter: @pg_nagle

The Pantagraph • Sunday, March 22, 2015 • F3

ANNUAL REPORT

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Regional hospitals replacing aging facilities Paul Swiech pswiech@pantagraph.com

EUREKA — Smaller Central Illinois hospitals are replacing aging facilities to remain up to date.

Advocate Eureka Hospital in Eureka is building an $11.4 million, 28,000-square-foot addition and Hopedale Medical Complex in Hopedale is completing an $8.5 million renovation and expansion. Meanwhile, OSF Saint James-John W. Albrecht Medical Center in Pontiac completed a multi-phase, $3.4 million expansion and renovation last summer.

“Our facility has become outdated,” said Eureka hospital administrator Anna Laible.

“Advances in medicine and technology drive the need for differently designed spaces.

We want to continue to serve our patients.”

Most of the hospital was built in 1962. A highlight of the addition will be 11 private, inpatient rooms, each with its own bathroom. In the existing building, only two patient rooms are private. A new family waiting area and nurses’ station will be nearby.

The addition also will include a surgical suite with two operating rooms that will have the latest technology and will be larger than the two exiting ORs. Construction should be complete late this year, with the addition opening in early 2016, said Advocate Construction Manager Tim Bassett.

H o p e d a l e ’s p ro j e c t i s a 10,000-square-foot addition and 20,000-square-foot renovation to the 1955 hospital building.

Opening in January was a replacement emergency department, five larger private inpatient rooms, six outpatient

patient conference room.

Later this spring, Chief Operating Officer Mark Rossi hopes to open a replacement intensive care unit and a sixth private inpatient room. A chapel and dining area will open later.

Meanwhile, BloomingtonNormal hospitals, which completed major expansion projects several years ago, are in the midst of smaller projects.

OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph Bloomington, dedicated a larger, Standing in the area of a third relocated surgical family waiting floor nurses station of Advocate area and administrative offices Eureka Hospital’s three-story, in January. Those moves and 28,000-square-foot addition, renovations mean that work can begin on a replacement surgical Tim Bassett, Advocate construcrecovery room that will be twice tion project manager, and Administrator Anna Laible discuss the size of the existing recovery progress on the facility in February room, said Ashley Neal, director of surgical services. during a tour.

After the new recovery room surgery suites, an outpatient opens in November, construcsurgery entrance, and lobby and tion will begin in December on a main hospital lobby with a a hybrid operating room that

should open in July 2016. The area’s first hybrid OR will integrate imaging into an operating room suite.

All the projects combined will cost just under $12 million, St. Joseph President Chad Boore said.

At Advocate BroMenn Medical Center, Normal, the lab is moving from the 1953 building to a new, larger location on the lower level of the 2012 building.

That $4.5 million project should be complete at the end of March, Bassett said.

BroMenn’s inpatient pharmacy will double in size when it moves from the lower level of the 1991 building to the lower level of the 2012 building, Bassett said.

That $1.85 million project began in January and should wrap up late this year.

Follow Paul Swiech on Twitter: @pg_swiech

Take time to explore our ‘diamond district’

The Pantagraph file photo

The future of the Clinton Power Station remains uncertain.

DeWitt County eyes uncertainty of nuclear plant staying in use Dan Craft dcraft@pantagraph.com

paying from $30,000 on up to six-figure sums.

Countering those disappointments was the return in 2014 of the C l i n to n C h a m b e r o f Commerce’s biggest revenue source, the Terror on Washington Street haunted house.

The popular attraction was put on hiatus in 2013 after it being closed down by fire officials due to lack of a sprinkler system in the building at 513 E. Washington St. “It was very grim, and it made a big difference in our operating budget (for 2014),” said Marian Brisard, executive director of the Clinton Chamber of Commerce. The average net profit from the month-long October event, she added, is $40,000.

The sprinkler system installation was paid for by the chamber and the attraction was back up and running in time for Halloween 2014.

On the city governm e n t f ro n t , f ive n ew members of the DeWitt County Board took the oath during a reorganization meeting in December that reinstated the committee system disbanded two years ago on a 9 to 3 vote.

The original dissolution divided the board and led to public disagreements.

But newly elected chairman Dave Newberg said he is looking forward to moving things forward and tackling such issues as a the county-owned marina, a new animal shelter and a budget with a $260,000 shortfall.

On the education front, the Clinton Unit School District 15 filled its superintendent vacancy by hiring Curt Nettles, formerly superintendent of Lexington schools.

Nettles, who assumes the job July 1, fills the position opened by retiring Superintendent Jeff Holmes.

CLINTON – The u n ce r ta i n fa te o f t h e Clinton Power Station, which began casting a long shadow over DeWitt County in 2014, remains the dominant issue for the area in the year ahead, says Clinton Mayor Carolyn Peters.

Officials from the Chicago-based Exelon Nuclear have stated they will be forced to close the plant if the state doesn’t c o m e u p w i t h p o l i cy changes to make the stations more profitable.

T h e p owe r s ta t i o n ge n e ra te s $ 13 m i l l i o n annually in payments to local taxing districts and employs more than 600 workers with a payroll of more than $50 million and brings hundreds of trade jobs through the plant.

Exelon officials have stated that today’s energy m a rke t p l a ce i s u n fa i r because its stations have to compete with alternative power sources, such as wind energy, that receive tax breaks.

Last month, a petition to keep the station open began circulating in what state Rep. Bill Mitchell, R-Forsyth, described as a first step in raising awareness of the plant’s importance.

Meanwhile, Peters says she will be working with lawmakers in the year ahead to help keep the plant open. “People come from all around to perform jobs here … they buy groceries here, they get their gas here. It supports our economy.”

Also a disappointment on DeWitt County’s economic front was the loss of a proposed medical marijuana farm outside of Clinton, said Ruth Stauffer, executive director of the DeWitt County Development Council.

T h e fa c i l i ty, wh i c h would have been located i n a 3 0,0 0 0 - s q u a re foot building on Revere Road, would have created Follow Pantagraph Lifestyles on between 25 and 40 jobs Twitter: @pg_lifestyles

Pam Eaton Downtown Bloomington was once the city’s vibrant hub for arts, retail and legal matters. Today it is more.

It’s a place to get a good cup of coffee, homemade cupcake or cup of soup; visit a museum, bank or hair salon; and purchase everything from local art to fresh vegetables and a new pair of eyeglasses.

I see it as the city’s “downtown diamond district,” a true gem full of history and architectural charm, loaded with arts and entertainment offerings. The area is roughly shaped like a diamond: with north including the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts, Mc L ea n Co u n ty A r ts Center and Holy Trinity Church; south the Bloomington Public Library, YMCA and warehouse district; east the former historic synagogue, Second Presbyterian Church and Castle Theater; west the U.S. Cellular Coliseum, Cometogether Studios, First Christian Church and all of the unique shops and venues nearby; and the

McLean County Museum of History regally holding her court on the center square.

Once upon a time the area had stores like Ro l a n d ’s d e p a r t m e n t store, Brack Shop, Upfront and Gallery 300 that sold original art and prints.

Today there are about 100 artists working or exhibiting in studios, galleries, shops and cafes. Some have been downtown for more than 40 years.

Visitors could spend two days visiting the 20-plus artist’s studios, galleries and specialty shops offering fine art, crafts, jewelry and more. Many of those businesses also participate in downtown’s monthly First Fridays, a popular evening attraction that allows visitors to meet local artists in their working studios.

As they explore downtown, visitors can also see vibrant outdoor public art, murals and sculpture on buildings and as part of private and public spaces.

More murals are planned for the spring.

They can also enjoy theater, music, dance and

l i te rary arts.

There are regular performances at highprofile places Pam l i ke t h e Eaton Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts and the U.S. Cellular Coliseum, but also at less-expected venues including churches, parks and coffee shops.

During the course of the year, downtown has an event for every season and interest: the Passion Play, Kiwanis Pancake Days, a Saturday farmers market, summer concerts, live holiday window vignettes, Tour de Chocolat, Tour de Metro, art walks, historical walking tours, pub crawls, Looking for Lincoln, Pork Chop Days, Brats & Bags and more. Under construction is a planned new Route 66-Lincoln tourism center.

This ambiance has also attracted a growing community of residents who have chosen to make downtown their home.

They want to live in a vibrant area where arts and enrichment are around every corner.

I have showcased some of the arts and culture opportunities located within or near downtown, but there are also interesting shops and businesses within the area to explore.

Parking is always available on the street or in the two city-owned parking decks.

A list of attractions and venues can be found on the Downtown Business Association map at the DBA office, 106 W. Monroe St., or www.downtownbloomington.org There is much to be discovered and enjoyed if one is willing to walk eight blocks in any one direction in the “diamond district.”

Help polish and grow the downtown; your patronage and support sustains and grows the creative culture in our historic downtown Bloomington. Hope to see you downtown soon!

Pam Eaton is a retired teacher and the gallerist at Herb Eaton Studio Gallery in downtown Bloomington.

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F4 • The Pantagraph • Sunday, March 22, 2015

The Larsen Team Dotty Mitchell Berkshire Hathaway Snyder Real Estate

With 29 years of experience in Bloomington/Normal, Ed and Vickie Larsen are dedicated, full time professionals in the real estate industry. As consistent multi-million dollar top producers, the Larsen Team has been presented with many awards including the President’s Circle and Leading Edge Society (top 5% worldwide) with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services. You can expect the highest level of professionalism, quality service, and personal attention that they have shown in the past.

Earning your trust and loyalty is the foundation of their business.

The Larsen Team’s expertise include residential resales, new construction, relocation, investment properties, and leasing.

Please give the Larsen Team a call and let their dedication and experience work for you.

Ed 309-275-3545 Vickie 309-310-5910 ed@edlarsensells@msn.com www.edlarsensells.com

Sue Strang Sue Strang Realty Group CRP—Certiied Relocation Professional, CRS—Certiied Residential Specialist, GRI—Graduate Realtors Institute, PMN—Performance Management Network, SFR—Short Sales Foreclosure Resource, SRES – Senior Real Estate Specialist, BPOR – Broker Price Opinion Resource, SRS – Seller Representative Specialist.

All advanced real estate education designations that Sue has earned which separate her from most other local REALTORS. In 2013 she was honored as the CRS Illinois Member of the Year in a ceremony at the state convention. Sue was the 2010 President of Illinois CRS Chapter. Less than 4% of REALTORS have earned the CRS designation. Sue served as State President for Women’s Council of REALTORS® in 2004 and also honored as the Illinois Member of the Year in 2012.

A veteran of 28+ years working with buyers and sellers has resulted in consistent multi-million dollar production. Referrals from satisied customers and friends contribute to her experience and success. Past performance is no guarantee of future success...but what else can you go by.

Please call Sue at (309) 824-0002 for respected, experienced and honest service.

Sheryl Scott Berkshire Hathaway Snyder Real Estate Sheryl is a multi-million dollar producer and brings over 24 years in sales experience and business management. She has been a native of McLean County for most of her life, and a Realtor/Broker for the past 20 years. Expertise in creating luxurious homes has created a new company known as Executive Homes, Inc. She is consistently recommended for tremendous results in residential sales.

Sheryl has used her design skills to help her clients make their homes “market ready” and more competitive in todays market. Her premier marketing package repeatedly produces success stories for Seller’s in even the most difi cult market situations. Sheryl has a long list of past clients who readily refer her to friends and family.

Creative thinking, a positive attitude and excellent service are the keys to her success.

Sheryl was the i rst agent in Bloomington/ Normal to post her business on the Internet over 18 years ago, and continues to offer state-ofthe- art marketing technology. Sheryl has mentored new agents to successful career results. For proven results, call Sheryl when buying, selling, or building. www.bloomingtonillinoisrealestate.com or 309-825-1096

Berkshire Hathaway Snyder Real Estate Your home town expert! Dotty has been a successful, full time Real Estate agent for over twenty years and is always ready to go to work for you. As a lifelong resident of McLean County, she has a wealth of personal contacts and a vast knowledge of the area. Her background of teaching in Unit 5 and serving as an administrator in District 87 are invaluable attributes. She encourages you to make her website at BHHS.DottyMitchell.com, your one stop to get all your Real Estate information. She prides herself on responding quickly and personally when clients have questions. 309-8301314. dotty@dottymitch.com

Tom Krieger Berkshire Hathaway Snyder Real Estate

Meet Tom Krieger, Relocation Specialist for Berkshire Hathaway Snyder Real Estate. He has specialized in residential New Construction and Relocation, and Luxury Home Sales for the past 35 years. He is an 8 time Chairman’s Circle Gold Award Winner.

Tom was named “Listing Agent of the Year” and also “Realtor of the Year” for Berkshire Hathaway Snyder Real Estate 2006, 2007 and 2014. In 2009, Since relocating to the area in 1996, Tom has enjoyed working in Bloomington-Normal’s excellent market. Tom’s sales volume exceeded 15 million in 2014.

Tom believes that buying or building a new home should be an enjoyable experience.

He feels that buyers need someone with the background and “know-how” to take care of the details so that it can be enjoyable. Tom offers that expertise and exceptional service. You can contact Tom at (309) 275-0659 or (309) 664-1854. kriegcrew@aol.com

www.pantagraph.com

Amanda Capodice Kinsella, MBA

Mike & Jean Hutson

Becky Gannaway Gerig

Berkshire Hathaway Snyder Real Estate

Berkshire Hathaway Snyder Real Estate

RE/MAX Choice

Amanda is a lifelong resident of Bloomington Normal and became a full time real estate agent after graduating from ISU in 2006. Amanda has helped more than 175 families buy or sell real estate and in 2014, was the Commercial Agent of the year for Berkshire Hathaway Snyder Real Estate. Amanda always does what is in the best interest of her clients and strives every day to provide top notch service.

Please visit AmandaKinsella.com to learn how Amanda will make your property, her priority.

Mobile: (309) 212-2276 Amanda@AmandaKinsella.com

Liliana Taimoorazi Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors Another year of dedication and high standards of Customer Service pays off and once again I was one of the Top Brokers in the Industry to achieve the membership of International President’s Circle of Coldwell Banker Nationwide! I have earned my Clients’ trust, loyalty & referral throughout the years of dedication! I have Multi-cultural Background, and know several languages such as Italian, Persian, Assyrian & understand Spanish and Russian. Graduated from ISU in Business Information Systems & have kept investing on education & technology to work smart towards my Clients’ objectives. See for yourselves & let me assist you through the whole process to make your move to be a smooth & a pleasant one! Please call, text or email me at any time for all your Real Estate needs!

Mobile: 309-826-5559 Ofice: 309-664-3615 Www.lilianacbhoa.com Email: ltaimoorazi@cbhoa.com

Keith Troutman Smith Stein Family Realtors Crowne Realty, LLC

Allison and Phyllis have come together with their hands on approach to personal and professional Real Estate. They have combined their extensive knowledge of the local market with online marketing to provide a standard of excellence in this changing real estate environment.

Time and time again their clients give them rave reviews on outstanding SERVICE and AVAILABILITY. They joined Crowne Realty in 2015 to add experience and fresh ideas to this boutique brokerage. Call today at 826-8614, like them on Facebook and join their group of happy clients.

Nancy Brady RE/MAX Choice

Nancy Brady is a full-time REALTOR® with 28 years of experience. A native of Bloomington-Normal, she has always been active in the community, especially with Timber Pointe. She has sold over $190,000,000 in real estate. She is very involved with her 13 grandchildren. Nancy enjoys golf and her time with friends. She appreciates the loyalty of all the new friends she has had the opportunity to work with and feels fortunate to have them as her best source of referrals. Nancy really cares about your needs and wants to ind the best home for you.

If you are selling, she will work very hard to make it easy for you. She will always call you back with a smile.

309-242-1311 309-664-8517

Berkshire Hathaway Snyder Real Estate In 2014 Keith joined the #1 Real Estate Team in BloomingtonNormal, The Mark Bowers Team at Berkshire Hathaway Snyder Real Estate. The Mark Bowers Team received the great honor of the 2014 Team of The Year with $32 Million in sales.

Keith Troutman is a long time resident of the Bloomington/ Normal area. Since becoming a Real Estate agent in 2004 he has consistently put his clients irst. Keith’s dedication, attention to detail, and passion for real estate has contributed to his success! His commitment to providing prompt, personal service to his clients has earned him a reputation for quality within the community. You can call or text Keith at (309) 826-1737 or email at keith@ markbowershomes.com. You can also visit Keith at his website www.Keith.MarkBowersHomes.com

The Lane Realtors

Mike and Jean Hutson www.TheHutsonTeam.com Mike and Jean bring buyers and sellers together using the latest technology. Whether you are moving across town or across the country-our aim is to make your move as stress free as possible. We can assist you with re-designing your space before you list your property; and research the properties you may want to see for your next purchase. Looking for a New Address... we can help.

Recipient of President’s Circle Award (Top 3% of Berkshire Hathaway’s Real Estate Division Internationally) HutsonRealEstate@gmail.com Mike - 309-825-6894 Jean - 309-825-5707

Sandy Slingsby Berkshire Hathaway Snyder Real Estate Sandy moved to B/N in 1965 and has been a Realtor since 1993. U of W, Madison B.S., and ISU, M.S. and has continued her education by obtaining a GRI designation.

With 30 years of teaching experience, 28 at Chiddix Junior High School, Sandy knows the value of doing her homework.

Educating her clients about buying and/ or selling is second nature to her.

She has the knowledge and experience to help you make your decisions easier. Buying or selling, Sandy makes the grade. Call Sandy today!

Mobile 309-824-3652.

Anne & Kindi Bliss Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors Anne Bliss has been selling Real Estate in the B/N area for over 35 years. She is a CRS,GRI,ABR, SRS. Before Real Estate she taught in district 87 schools. Her daughter Kindi has been listing and selling homes for over 18 years now.

Kindi has been competing in 5K runs and has done Triathlons and gotten in the top 3 in her age group in all of her competitions.

She enjoys traveling, ine food and wine tasteing. Her son Jake is her PRIDE & JOY! Anne enjoys her grandchildren the most. She plays tennis, golfs, bowls and bridge. She also loves water sports. She is an active member in the Normal Kiwanis club.

Kindi and I want to thank all our past clients and friends for their loyalty, friendship and support.

We specialize in serving families. For a “Blissfull” HOME experience call the Bliss family team. 309-825-ANNE or 309275-3707. abliss@cbhoa.com

Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors The Lane Realtor Team offers advantage of knowledge and experience while keeping pace with current technology Joe has 18 years’ experience in the real estate profession combined with 20 years’ of banking experience in the Bloomington/ Normal area.

He takes pride in providing professional, extraordinary customer service. Joey has 13 years’ experience in the computer retail and repair business and has been selling real estate since 2009. Check out our website at www.thelanerealtors.com and let us help you ind your dream home! 309-275-0743 joerealtor@cbhoa.com

Lynn Lister Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors LIST WITH LISTER! A resident of Bloomington-Normal for over 30 years, Lynn knows the community, schools, and neighborhoods. First time home buyers have so many questions and Lynn works hard to get all the answers.

Lynn uses the right tools to price your home for sale too!

Member of Coldwell Banker Diamond Societiy, Marketing Specialist, Relocation Specialist, GRI, Certiied Negotiation Specialist. Call 309-287-6610 today! llister@cbhoa.com

Becky is a life time resident of BL/NL. She attended University High School and Illinois State University. She is married to Doug Gerig who is from the Gridley area who sells Commercial Real Estate for Douglas R. Gerig Commercial Properties. They have eight wonderful children and their family attends Heartland Community Church. Becky is very passionate about her Real Estate career.

She has been selling Real Estate for 29 years and as a Veteran Agent she has earned many accomplishments and awards over the years. In 2012, 2013, 2014 she was in the top 30 agents in the community and made the 100% Club with RE/MAX International. She prides herself in enjoying all aspects of the business. She is a specialist in many areas: irst time home buyers, relocation buyers, listing of existing homes and new construction. She is very comfortable in the New Construction arena because of her father and brother being in the business as Gannaway Construction. She provides a one hour consultation free for discussing any of your Real Estate needs. Please call her at 309-212-4120 or text her the same number or email her at BeckyGerig@remax.net. Becky’s spiritual belief is John 3:16!

Sue Tretter Judy Glenn Keller Williams Realty Buying or selling a home can be a challenge, which is why you want an agent who has KNOWLEDGE of the market and proven SUCCESS. Combining over 22 years of real estate experience, SUE TRETTER and JUDY Sue GLENN of Tretter the TretterGlenn HomeMatchTeam, are consistent production leaders – ranking in the top 8% of all BNAR agents. They credit their success to AWARENESS of market trends, continued EDUCATION, exceptional SERVICE and client REFERRALS. “We LISTEN and CARE about your needs and desires!”

Sue and Judy Judy are FULL-TIME Glenn agents, COMMITTED to helping their buyers and sellers reach their real estate goals. “We pride ourselves on superior SERVICE, practical SOLUTIONS, and client SATISFACTION!” BUYERS – we work WITH and FOR you to ind your home.

SELLERS – our STAGING guidance and ambitious marketing deliver RESULTS. Experience the DIFFERENCE with the TretterGlenn HomeMatchTeam!

Call Sue Tretter at 309-287-7962 or Judy Glenn at 309-261-7333.

Visit us at www.TretterGlennHMT.com.

Gerry Wahlheim Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors Considering Buying or Selling, this may be one of your most signiicant inancial Sale/ Purchase of your life, TRUST a pro. With over 14 years Real Estate experience, an accountant by trade, no one knows the numbers better than Gerry.

The Real Estate market may seem confusing and intimidating, let Gerry cut to the chase and explain the true Cost of Ownership to you. All Real Estate is local, trust a full time, seasoned veteran to guide you through the process, you won’t be disappointed.

Call 309.532.2920, email gwsold@gmail.com or visit my Website-Buyinbloomington.com

Jack Ruch Berkshire Hathaway Snyder Real Estate

Jack Ruch has been in the Real Estate business since 1971.

He moved to the Twin Cities in 1987, sold Real Estate and has been a Home Builder, giving him the edge when selling homes knowing the ins and outs of construction.

He also manufactures custom moldings for homes. He enjoys working with people and inding them the home of their dreams. Should you ind a home that isn’t quite what you were dreaming of, he can help you make it that way.

Call him today at 309-824-0293.

Anne Fleer Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors A native of Bloomington, Anne is a graduate of the University of Illinois with a Degree in Business Administration/ Marketing. She is familiar with the area, the schools, and the community – all important factors if you are relocating to McLean County. Prior to joining Coldwell Banker Heart of America, she worked in the inancial industry and held positions in mortgage lending, marketing, and was also the comptroller of a inancial institution. She then was asked to join a Marketing/ Sales team for a Fortune 50 Communications Company supporting one of their largest customers, where she was recognized as being in the top 1% of the company’s sales force. She has experience in lending, marketing, contract negotiations, advertising, and customer service – all important facets of a real estate transaction. Anne has been actively involved in the community having served on the Boards of The United Way and The Arthritis Foundation.

In addition she has worked with the American Cancer Society, Special Olympics, The Children’s Advocacy center, her church, and the schools in the area. She loves real estate and is committed to her clients.

She pledges honesty, integrity, and that she will prioritize her clients needs. She measures her success by delighting her customers. She can be reached at 309-826-2178, aleer@cbhoa.com, or via her website at www.anneleer.com.

Al Legg RE/MAX Choice Experience the Al Legg Difference! Al Legg, Broker, CRS, & CSP started as a FullTime Real Estate Professional in 1976 and became a Broker in 1982, giving him 39 years as a full time Real Estate Agent.

AL was born and raised in Pontiac, Illinois. He has been married to Jan for 36 years. Their daughter Anne is married AL LEGG to Matt Steinman. Al and Jan are the proud grandparents of Kaelyn Harper Steinman.

Al has earned the title of #1 RE/MAX Sales Agent in All of 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010 & 2008 in S. Illinois/MO Region. He also acquired the title of 2014 RE/MAX Choice, “Sales Associate of the Year” and achieved this title since 2002.

12 solid years demonstrating his Enthusiasm to be a true Top Professional. He also received the RE/MAX Lifetime Achievement Award in February 2014.

He received the Certiied New Home Sales Professional Designation through his hard work and Dedication.

AL works with Clients in any price range either Buyers - including 1st Time Home Buyers, Sellers, Families Relocating either into or out of the area and is also involved in New Construction.

AL’s Real Estate knowledge shines through as he reviews the Marketing Conditions to inform his Clients and strives for a successful transaction.

He goes above and beyond just to provide 110% Customer Satisfaction to all of his Clientele. You can’t go wrong with AL LEGG. Call Al at 309.531.2177

The Pantagraph • Sunday, March 22, 2015 • F5

www.pantagraph.com

The Cindy Eckols Team RE/MAX Choice

Deb Connor Coldwell Banker Heart of america Realtors #1 Agent @ #1 Company BUYING OR SELLING Call Deb today 309-531-1912

Cindy Eckols

Greg Lee

Cally Eckols Diskin Megan Yontz Harden

Jennie Sperry Office Manager •Consistent Multi-Million Dollar Producers!

•Numerous Local, State, and National Award Winners!

•We specialize in all types of Real Estate-Residential, Commercial, Multi Family, Land, and Relocation.

•Team experience includes developer, builder, interior design, database knowledge, and educators.

We put all of our knowledge together for you to give the best possible experience whether buying or selling.

•Service is our Priority! We work hard for you!

The Cindy Eckols Team RE/MAx Choice 2203 Eastland Drive Suite 2 C-309-532-1616 O-309-664-8552 cindy@cindyeckols.com

Jim Fruin Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors

I have been providing real estate services to our community for over 20 years.

I am well established in the community and have many satisied clients and an extensive network of professional and local clients. I am a full time agent and I am ready to work with you. I am associated with many corporate companies and universities. I advertise your property on www.cbhoa.com www.bnrealtors and many other internet sites.

GET RESULTS-CALL DEB! Email: dconnor@cbhoa.com

Keith Rice Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors As a graduate of Lexington High School, Illinois Wesleyan University, and ISU, as well as teaching in Unit 5, I have over 40 years experience living, working and teaching in BloomingtonNormal and the surrounding area. Couple that with the resources of the #1 real-estate company in McLean County and you have a winning combination! So, whether you’re looking for your irst home or your dream home, see what Coldwell Banker Heart of America and I can do for you!

Email me at krice@cbhoa.com or call 309-531-2675.

Larry & Candy Foster Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors About Us...

I started my construction business in 1973 and received my real estate license in 1974.

Since then, I have built, owned, single, multi-family, retail ofice, churches, warehouse, agricultural and development Larry Foster properties.

Commerical Broker Candy is a licensed Broker SFR and assisting construction and real estate management and accounting since 1981.

Candy Foster We feel with our vast knowledge and experience that we will be an asset to buyers, sellers and investors.

Call Larry at 309-824-2700 or Candy at 309-838-1032

Who’s Who In Real Estate

Dan Slagell Re/MaX Choice As a Managing Broker for Re/MAx Choice, Dan has over 20 years of inance and real estate experience. He is anxious to assist new and past clients and sincerely appreciates the opportunity to have served many friends, neighbors and new community members with their real estate needs. Dan is a Certiied Agent for Real estate Investors and a CDPe/ Certiied Distressed Property expert. He specializes in new construction, relocation, commercial and agricultural investments. Give Dan, a dedicated full-time professional, a call for all your real estate needs.

309-261-3026 danslagell@remax.net

Belinda Trunell RE/MAX Choice BELINDA TRUNELL is an outstanding RE/MAX Agent/ Broker that takes pride in helping clients. She strives to exceed their expectations by providing personable service. Belinda is a RE/MAX 100% Club, Executive Club, and Above the Crowd member. She is recognized as one of the top leaders in relocation, new construction, and overall sales. If you appreciate downhome southern hospitality, please contact Belinda for all of your real estate needs. And don’t forget, she is never too busy for your referrals!

Please contact Belinda by email at belindatrunell@remax.net or by phone at 309-287-6105.

The Haas Sisters Tracy Haas Riley & Kristen Haas Oliver Berkshire Hathaway Snyder Real estate Meet the Haas Sisters: Tracy Haas Riley and Kristen Haas Oliver of Berkshire Hathaway Snyder Real Estate. These sisters of real estate bring high energy and a strong commitment to their business.

They are dedicated to providing a positive experience for their clients whether they are buying or selling. In addition to their over 25 years combined real estate experience, both sisters are graduates of Illinois State University. This Sister Team always strives to do their best to get you the very best home at the very best price! And if you are selling, you won’t be disappointed in their marketing commitment to your home!

They welcome new clients to call or e-mail them to see for themselves the dedication and results that they provide.

They also want to thank loyal clients for their business and are grateful for their referrals. Both are really appreciated!

Visit them at their web site at: www.TheHaasSisters.com or call Tracy at 309-275-6590 or Kristen at 309-838-6082

LOOKING FOR A

NEW HOME? Home Market

Home Finder

HomeFinder FREE

VOLUM E 20 - MARC H 2015

F e at u r i n

1812 Pfitzer,

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Normal — $319,

the high quality of subdivision equals new construction from Johnston a home you won’t Builders plus the a full appliance be able to walk desirable Wintergre package, granite away from! the en countertops, and family room is the ireplace with glass tile backsplash well-appointed kitchen features entertainment its tile surround .the focal point media, for shoes or backpacksfamily photos, and cherishedto match the kitchen, and built-in of the open displays. shelving , overhead bins, great walk-in closet hooks, and a bench Hallway drop zone has storage for seat. extra-larg cubbies with tile and glass and sumptuous bathroom e master with closets and large enclosure. open staircase leads tile loors, tile surround garden bedroom has a bedrooms. Huge, from tub, and shower two story foyer also has 5th bedroom, inished full bath, and storagebasement is just waiting for to large upper landing with the fun to begin! space.Wood loors.tile d loors in laundry lower level and all baths.

900

J.P. Finley —o r— Brad Rop GRI™, ABR™ p

BROKER, ASP™,

mobile: 309.

310.1790 jp@jpinley.co m www.JPFinley.com

BROKER

mobile: 309.

275. bradr@johnston-bui 1580 lders.com

Each Ofice Independen

tly Owned and

Operated.

For advertising information call law. All persons (309) are hereby informed 820-3359 / e-mail: KBaker@Pa for sale now in ntagraph.com the Central Illinois that all dwellings advertised The Home Finder area. Neither are available will not knowingly on the advertiser, accept any advertising the HomeFinder an equal opportunity basis.

Photographs, , nor the printer for Real Estate prices and descriptions will be responsible which is in violation for misinformat of residential of the and investment ion, misprints, typographical properties errors, etc.

Pantagraph.com

Jim is a proud lifetime resident of the Bloomington Normal community, where he has retired from a 37 year career at State Farm Insurance.

While there, he had varied responsibilities in Healthcare and Human Resources, and also acquired his Real Estate license and became a Chartered Financial Consultant. He remains engaged in several community Healthcare roles, and is currently a volunteer in the Emergency Department at OSF St. Josephs Medical Center. He has also been very active in local government where he served 6 years on the City of Bloomington Planning Commission and is currently in his 16th year as a Township Trustee and a City of Bloomington Alderman. In addition, he has remained involved with his alma maters of Central Catholic High School and Illinois State University.

Jim thoroughly enjoys helping others and prides himself with his dedicated full service client assistance, and in-depth knowledge of the Bloomington Normal real estate market. You can reach him at 309-8242628 or jfruin@cbhoa.com.

You will be glad you did.

Greg Zavitz Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors

I am a graduate of Illinois Wesleyan University. I use a team approach with the help of one licensed agent and 1 unlicensed ofice manager.

I have averaged over $10 million in sales and 60-70 homes sold each of the last 10 years. Hire a knowledgeable professional with 30 years experience to get the job done. I will give your home more internet exposure than any other agent in town. Call me and I will show you my sales system...

309-275-4734 gregzavitz@gmail.com www.HomesInBloomingtonIL.com

Protecting home ownership, now and for future generations.

A child doesn’t know that owning a home helps build communities. That home ownership contributes to higher self-esteem and better test scores. They just know that home is where they belong. It’s where they play, grow and learn.

The National Association of REALTORS® will always stand up for home ownership and strive to protect it. Because home ownership matters– to our families, our neighborhoods and our country.

HouseLogic.com/homeownership ©2012 REALTORS® are members of the National Association of REALTORS®

F6 • The Pantagraph • Sunday, March 22, 2015

ANNUAL REPORT

www.pantagraph.com

2014 full of happy high school winners Randy Sharer rsharer@pantagraph.com

Among the perks of being a sports writer is getting to talk to winners.

The Pantagraph sports staff conversed with a lot of cheerful high school winners in 2014.

To be exact, four area teams won state titles and 11 more earned state trophies. Adding to the jubilation were 12 individual and five relay state champions.

Drama peaked during the three-overtime Class 2A state basketball final between Central Catholic (27-6) and its 76-62 victim, Nashville.

Kicking off the victory parade was the University High boys swim team, which became the first champion from south of Interstate 80.

The Pioneers saw the late Jake Miller set a state meet record in the 200 IM (1:48.08) and win the 500 freestyle (4:28.36) besides aiding the winning 200 free relay (1:38.96) and 400 free relay (3:03.97). Adam Drury, who won the 200 free (1:38.96), also swam on those relays with Steven Fishman and John Remmes.

Other champs were the El PasoGridley boys golf team in Class 1A and Deer Creek-Mackinaw’s 2A volleyball team (36-3).

Headlining eight individual track champions was Amelia

STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph

Central Catholic’s Austin Holman celebrates during the Saints State Final victory over Nashville in a triple-overtime in the IHSA Class 2A Final last March at Carver Arena in Peoria.

Glueck, who won her third long jump title (18-8) and second 100 crown (12.29) to help Tremont place second in 1A. The area’s nine runner-up teams included the U High girls track squad, which got 2A titles from Gabi Jacobs in the discus (131-4), Sydney Billingsley in the 1,600 (5:02.30) and Chante Stonewall in the 300 hurdles (43.84).

The Eureka boys took second in 1A track with help from 100 winner Brett Charlton Jr. (10.90), who also keyed the winning 400 (42.90) and 800 relays (1:29.56). Other relay royalty was Deer Creek-Mackinaw’s girls

four-by-800 (9:36.38) in 1A. U High’s collection of six champions included 2A track 800 record setter J.D. LaFayette (1:51.48). Also winning were Brooke Catherine of Normal Community in the 3A pole vault (12-9) and Tri-Valley’s Derek Wegman in the 1A high jump (6-9).

The lone area wrestling champion for the second straight year was heavyweight Josh Wallick of the GCMS-Fisher co-op (42-1).

The Metamora girls swim co-op had 100 breaststroke champion Noelle Peplowski (1:03.69).

Unit 5 soccer soared to secondplace state heights thanks to the

Photo courtesy Lauren Miller

Members of the University High School boys swim team celebrate their state championship last march at Evanston High School.

Normal West girls (27-2) in 2A and the NCHS boys (23-1-2) in 3A. Boys basketball runners-up were Heyworth (26-8) in 1A and Lincoln (34-3) in 3A. Secondplace trophies also went to Hartsburg-Emden (30-10) in 1A volleyball and Mahomet-Seymour in 2A boys cross country.

No area football team was finer than 2A semifinalist Fieldcrest (12-1). State third-placers were NCHS (36-5) in 3A volleyball and Cissna Park (38-3) in 1A volleyball.

The Pantagraph Athletes of the Year were EPG’s Rebekah Ehresman and Normal West’s Kyrin Tucker.

JIM BOWLING, Lee News Service

Deer Creek-Mackinaw players block a tip attempt by MaroaForsyth’s Kira Jackson in a Class 2A super-sectional in Maroa.

Career readiness a top Unit 5 goal Mark Daniel As I wrap up my first nine months as superintendent, I continue to be amazed by what a tremendous school district we have in McLean County Unit 5. Our stud e n t s excel both in and outside the classroom, as a result of the remarkable eduMark cational Daniel opportunities provided daily.

I have spent the last semester visiting all 24 schools in Unit 5 at least twice. One visit was to meet with staff and tour the classrooms. During those visits, I witnessed the wonderful things happening in our schools, including Reader’s and Writer’s workshop. I watched our outstanding staff at work and saw their dedication to our students. It is their efforts that help create the exemplary learning community in Unit 5.

The second visit was to conduct a listening tour for the entire school community — students, parents and staff. During those meetings, we collected information on what makes our schools exemplary and how to make them even better. We had excellent discussion and collected great information. This data has been compiled and will be an integral part of our strategic planning process.

Academic excellence, career and college readiness and technology are among top priorities in Unit 5 and will continue to drive decision-making.

We are focused on several district initiatives to help students achieve high academic standards.

The district’s 1:1 learning initiative continues to grow, providing this digitally-minded generation endless opportunities. A program that started with sixth graders three years ago expanded to include all students in grades 6 to 9 having laptops this school year. By next year, it will include all 6th12th graders and include a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) option.

College and career readiness is a district priority and we continue to expand

opportunities to ensure students are prepared for life after high school, whether they are attending a two-year school, a fouryear school or entering directly into the workforce.

An example is our new entrepreneurial class that will begin in the fall. This class, which has been in the planning stages, creates meaningful connections with local business owners and innovators. Students will visit local businesses, partner with a mentor, learn from guest speakers, develop their own ideas, and present progress to panels of investors throughout the year.

Teamwork, motivation, responsibility, communication and inquiry will be further developed through this course.

Career cruising — a s e l f- e x p l o ra t i o n a n d planning program that helps achieve their potential in school, career and life — also was utilized in our junior highs and high schools. Unit 5 also expanded its dual credit classes with Heartland Community College. This program allows Unit 5 students to earn free college credit while taking classes in our high schools.

No year comes without its challenges. State funding issues continue to hinder the district’s financial health, with lawmakers allowing for partial and late payments. Despite these pressures, Unit 5 continues to be fiscally responsible and the district maintains a balanced budget.

Partnering with school districts across the state, Unit 5 is supporting Illinois Vision 20/20. This is a collaborative blueprint for improving public education in Illinois.

“Fulfilling the Promise of Public Education” is its goal and we will work to build off four interdependent pillars: Highly E f f e c t i ve E d u c a to r s ; 21st Century Learning; Shared Accountability; and Equitable and Adequate Funding.

I would like to thank everyone for welcoming me to this community. I look forward to working together as we “educate each student to achieve personal excellence.”

Daniel is superintendent of the McLean County Unit 5 School District.

DAVID PROEBER, Pantagraph file photos

Farnsworth Group of Normal has been recommended as the architect for a planned new Chestnut Family Health Center at the site of the former Fairview Sanitarium, pictured here, in north Normal.

County giving new purpose to Fairview site Mary Ann Ford mford@pantagraph.com

BLOOMINGTON — The old, unused Fairview Sanitarium building in north Normal is getting a new focus as a result of a partnership between McLean County and Chestnut Health Services.

In August, the McLean County Board approved an agreement with Chestnut to build a new federally qualified health center at the Fairview building site.

The county will pay to raze the old building and build the new one. Chestnut will lease the building for the new health center.

County officials recently recommended Farnsworth Group as the architect for the estimated $4.5 million project that will include 12 exam/procedure rooms; space for primary care and obstetrics providers; separate waiting areas for patients seeking medical and psychiatry treatment; three meeting rooms; 14 rooms for behavioral health-related services; an on-site lab and pharmacy; and training space.

The source of funding for the project has not been determined but one option is to issue a bond through the Public Building Commission. The bond would be paid off through revenue from the lease agreement. Hannah Eisner, assistant county administrator, said there also is a chance for some

Marshell Thomson, director of the McLean County Animal Control Center, is shown with one of the many cats the center offers for adoption. The center made several changes in the past year after animal rights groups challenged their procedures. federal money.

The Fairview building housed the McLean County Health Department until a few years ago and the Regional Office of Education until 2013. Both have moved to 200 W. Front St. and the Fairview building has been vacant.

A timeline for the new p ro je c t h a s n o t b e e n determined. Chestnut Family Health Center currently is at 720 W. Chestnut St., Bloomington. As a federally qualified health center, it provides services to people on Medicaid and Medicare, the uninsured and privatepay patients.

The county board also

made some significant changes to the animal control center after animal rights groups challenged many of the center’s practices. Oversight of the center was shifted from the Health Department to the county administrator’s office in August.

Since that time, Animal Control has started a Facebook page listing animals up for adoption and added some evening and Saturday hours — both things urged by animal groups.

In addition, the center is working with animal groups to offer low-cost vaccination clinics.

Meanwhile, another proposed change to county

government — eliminating an elected auditor — was rejected by voters in November. The county board voted 12-6 in June to place the referendum on the ballot. In 2013, voters approved a referendum to eliminate an elected recorder and merge those duties with the county clerk’s office.

The county board also appointed a new coroner last year after Beth Kimmerling, the coroner since 2000, retired in November. Kathleen Davis was appointed to fill the position.

Follow Mary Ann Ford on Twitter: @pg_ford

The Pantagraph • Sunday, March 22, 2015 • F7

ANNUAL REPORT

www.pantagraph.com

Nonproits step up eforts amid cuts Bill Flick flick@pantagraph.com

In times of budget cuts, belt-tightening, financial austerity — and a state that is billions of dollars in debt and can’t fund projects like it once did — a funny thing is happening to the McLean County area on its way to the social-service poor house.

It’s doing OK. In fact, thanks to an ongoing personality trait of McLean County — a giving public that’s highly sympathetic to causes, charities and pursuits — it’s probably time for a deep breath and huge applause: The Salvation Army has just broken an all-time record in its 2014 campaign just completed, smashing its original goal by nearly $40,000.

United Way, in its latest annual drive, exceeded by more than 6 percent the amount of money it made the year before.

T h e B l o o m i n g to n Normal YMCA in 2014, as another example, raised a highest-of-all-time amount for one of its main projects.

In the face of dire forecasts and deep financial fears, the good news is that there’s still good news.

While its 2014 campaign did not reach its stated goal ($4.5 million), the amount

Salvation Army volunteer coordinator and office manager Joyce Glasscock presents a Bell Ringer Award last month at Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano in Bloomington to Kirt McReynolds and Steve Eckhardt of Integrity Technology Solutions for their efforts to raise contributions for the Salvation Army.

PHOTOS BY DAVID PROEBER, The Pantagraph

Ed Quijano, left, chairman of the 2014 United Way of McLean County fundraising campaign and State Farm vice president, receives an autographed Live United placard from United Way president and CEO David Taylor during the campaign celebration in January at Medici. raised at United Way (more than $4.2 million) meant its 61 human services programs will not see a reduction this year in funding, as occurred a year ago.

Over at the YMCA, thanks to supporters, the organization pulled in its goal of $151,862 for its “Strong Kids” campaign that helps provide Y benefits to lowincome families and each year helps between 1,500 and 1,600 people.

Cross-town at the YWCA

Unfair to force local governments to ix inancial problems Chris Koos There was a collective and audible gasp from local government officials throughout the state when Gov. Rauner announced his proposal to cut municipal transfer payments by 50 p e rc e n t .

Normal’s finance director confirmed the gove r n o r ’s p ro p osa l Chris w o u l d Koos cost the town an estimated $2.6 million in our upcoming fiscal year.

Compounding that loss of income is the governor’s budget proposal to reduce funding to higher education by 31 percent.

Illinois State University is Normal’s largest employer, and a substantial cut in state support to ISU would certainly trickle down to our local economy.

We all understand Illinois’ financial condition is grave. Gov. Rauner and the General Assembly face an enormous challenge. Sacrifice will be an essential element of any strategy to cure the financial woes of our state government.

Sacrifice will entail deep and painful spending cuts along with the imposition of new taxes and fees. Few of the necessary budget decisions will be easy and/ or without profound controversy.

I don’t envy the task ahead for the governor and the members of the General Assembly. However, it is my job to look out for best interests of our community. We have worked hard in Normal to maintain strong fiscal integrity. The financial health of our town was severely threatened during one our nation’s deepest economic recessions a few years ago.

T h e N o r m a l To w n Council was forced to make very difficult budget decisions in order to keep our organization on strong financial footing.

During this difficult period, we did not seek, nor were we given, any assistance from the State of Illinois.

During this time, the state raised the income tax from 3 percent to 5 percent in order to help address its own financial issues, but offered none of that increased revenue to local governments.

Along with many of my colleagues in Illinois, I supported the state’s decision to retain 100 percent of that extra revenue.

We collectively sent a strong message to our state leaders that essentially said local governments are willing and prepared to handle our own financial challenges without any additional state funding.

However, we insisted the state not take away any funding that already has been committed to us, including the local government share of the original (3 percent) state income tax.

Our state leaders have honored that request — until now.

My message to Gov. Rauner and the Illinois General Assembly is this: cutting transfer pay m e n ts to m u n i c i palities and counties is not a true reduction in state spending.

It is simply passing the problem created by budget mismanagement and fiscal irresponsibility at the state level to local elected officials to solve.

We at the local level have had no alternative but to balance our budgets year after year. We have sacrificed! We have made the difficult and unpopular budget decisions required to keep our organizations on solid financial ground.

Local government officers are prepared to make the hard decisions required to address our own budget challenges as they arise.

B u t i t i s u n rea so n able and unfair to ask l o c a l gove r n m e n ts to a d d re ss t h e f i n a n c i a l debacle of the State of Illinois that was created by the decisions, or lack thereof, of past governors and lawmakers.

We did not create the problem, we should not have to fix it.

Koos is the mayor of Normal.

McLean County, a new library opened in 2014, with its goal, said Liz German, a senior director, to get books in the hands of children and families that have limited access to books.

In other social servicerelated headlines in 2014: The American Red Cross of the Heartland named Coleen Moore as its executive director of the Bloomington-based chapter, responsible for Red Cross operations in McLean,

Livingston, Ford, LaSalle, Iroquois and Putnam counties. She took the place of Lyn Hruska, the longtime executive director who was promoted to chief development officer for Red Cross’ 45 Central Illinois counties.

At Easter Seals, the organization that supports children and adults with disabilities and special needs, about 1,100 people walked a mile in its “Walk With Me” event. It raised about $150,000. Gina Mandros,

who had been a vice president at the United Way until last August, also moved over to Easter Seals where just last month she was named community president.

As a cost-saving measure that reportedly also improved mental health crisis services in McLean County, the longtime crisis aid organization, PATH (Providing Access To Help) began working with staff at the Center for Human Services. The move, according to PATH Executive Director Karen Zangerle, enabled the addition of more crisis workers and cut the response times for crisis calls.

The Salvation Army of McLean County enjoyed a banner year. Buoyed by its annual Red Kettle drive at Christmas, residents donated a record-high $515,375.85 to its “Make A Difference” campaign, easily eclipsing its $470,000 goal. In fiscal 2014, the agency sheltered more than 500 homeless men and women, served more than 50,000 meals at its Safe Harbor shelter, helped 3,245 people with rent and utility assistance and provided more than 3,600 households with food from the pantry, records showed.

Flick is at flick@pantagraph.com

Mental health reform was priority Edith Brady-Lunny eblunny@pantagraph.com

B L O O M I N GT O N — Shortcomings in community mental health care were the focus of an effort by county officials and social service providers in 2014 to improve conditions for people living in jail, homeless shelters and the streets.

The unique intervention of government in a healthcare issue started in January with the appointment of two advisory panels by McLean County Board Chairman Matt Sorensen. Their final report is expected before summer.

The fact that seriously mentally inmates are housed in the booking area was brought to the county board by former Sheriff Mike Emery who asked that the National Institute of Corrections study his concerns.

The NIC report started the community dialogue, said Laura Beavers, behavioral health program director at the McLean County Health Department.

“The study allowed us to bring experts in to look at what we were doing. We knew there were issues but the NIC study put an official stamp to it,” said Beavers who has worked with

the county board and providers to coordinate previously scattered services.

A new mental health unit proposed as part of a jail expansion project will address deficiencies cited in the NIC report.

Key to the improvements effort was a shift in how services are delivered. Committees of providers now meet with county staff and board members to review delays and other issues with how people are served.

“Last year we opened a conversation about behavioral health, a topic people don’t want to talk about and that’s stigmatized,” said Beavers.

A well-recognized need for a crisis stabilization center will be filled in April with a new 14-bed unit

by Chestnut Health Systems for crisis and medical detox. Upgrades to the mobile crisis unit operated by the Center for Human Services are aimed at reducing the response time for crisis calls.

Still to be addressed is the shortage of supportive housing that would provide services and rental assistance for people whose stability hinges on ongoing services.

Follow Edith Brady-Lunny on Twitter: @pg_blunny

Come Spend the Day in...

LeRoy Shopping • Dining • Antiques & More!

Your Full Service Grocery Store!

Bakery Deli Fresh Meats Produce — Open 7 Days a Week! — 200 S. Chestnut, LeRoy

Dena Swigart (309) 661-1972 (309) 825-2194 email: denaswigart@hotmail.com web: www.denaswigart.com

©2014 BHH Afiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Afiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

Most Complete Line of Fertilizers in McLean County.

www.LeRoyFertilizer.com

Operating in LeRoy for 36 Years!

Production Plant • R.R. 1, LeRoy • 962-2931

(309) 962-5800 400 N. Walnut • Rt. 150 in LeRoy

Sherri Masters BROKER / REALTOR® Snyder Real Estate #1 Brickyard Drive Bloomington, IL 61701 Cell: 309-530-8833 masterssherri@gmail.com www.sherrimasters.com A member of the franchise system of BHH Afilates, LLC

F8 • The Pantagraph • Sunday, March 22, 2015

www.pantagraph.com

Honor Roll of area businesses ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

1837 First

1837

ESTABLISHED

1854

ESTABLISHED

1872

ESTABLISHED

1857

Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

www.blmfcc.com

Sunday Worship: 8:30 & 11 a.m.

www.evergreenmemorialcemetery.com

ESTABLISHED

1890

401 W. Jefferson Bloomington 829-9327

Pantagraph.com

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

1902

1890

Celebrating 125 Years!

BLOOMINGTON TENT & AWNING

www.bloomingtontent-awning.com

• Back Lit Awnings • Custom Made • Retractable Fabric Products Awnings • Pool & Boat Covers • Canopies • Tent Sales

All types of Repairs...

Watch, Clock & Jewelry New & Antique

217-935-4583

828-3411

600 West Side Square - Clinton

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

1916

20513158

1917

308 E. Washington street Bloomington, il 61701

(309) 828-4310

STOP IN AND SEE OUR NEW SHOWROOM! • Full Service Coffee Bar • Children’s Activity Center • Comfortable Customer Lounge Complete line of Pre-owned vehicles too!

2030 Ireland Grove Rd, Bloomington

309-663-4391 View all our inventory at

www.cwlawofice.com

www.shopbarker.com

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

1940

1947

www.chenoail.org

www.mcdonaldsupplyshowroom.com

ESTABLISHED

1908

ESTABLISHED

young wonders summer camp. where your child’s adventure begins.

STATE BANK OF GRAYMONT

1201 N. Hershey Road, Bloomington, IL (309) 662-0461 | www.ywcamclean.org

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

307 E. Grove st., Bloomington

MidstatE PodiatRy assoCiatEs, ltd

309-454-1770

1917

1930

309.828.5037 309.662.2886

www.ClayDooley.com • Expert auto service • Expert advice • asE Certiied technicians

2708 McGraw drive., Bloomington www.midstatepodiatry.com 800-475-5977 • 309-663-2306 “A Step Ahead in Foot Care” 20513795

ESTABLISHED

FOR ALL YOUR PRINTING NEEDS 302 EAST WASHINGTON 309-827-5466

T I NG 61 YE

CELE Bloomington 309.661.1166 www.midillinicu.com

ESTABLISHED

1963

“Together We’re Better”

WRIGHT’S

Pontiac • odell • dwight Forrest • Fairbury www.bankofpontiac.com

Quality Furniture, Flooring & Appliances the “Wright” store For you 115 E. Madison, Pontiac (815) 844-7177

W W W.T H E C O P YS H O P O N L I N E . C O M

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

Member FdiC Member Pontiac Bancorp, inc.

ESTABLISHED

1964

1964

2010 Fox Creek Road Bloomington, IL 309.828.4580 www.niepagens.com Look for us on Facebook!

ESTABLISHED

1971

Life • Home • Car • Farm • Business

FOR PERSONAL SERVICE, SEEK SHELTER TODAY.

1970

2 LOCATIONS: Maroa Ph: (217) 794-2292 East Peoria Ph: (309) 699-6231

Celebrating 51 years of serving Central Illinois!

• Asphalt Paving • Complete Maintenance • Landscape Materials • Flagstone, Boulders • Mulch

Bloomington - Ph. 309-828-2741 Chenoa - Ph. 815-945-2141 Pontiac - Ph. 815-842-1627 Fax: 815-945-7066

Ofice Hours: Mon-Wed 8-5 Thurs 10-7 & Fri 8-1

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

Spring Is Here

Now Open!

1019 S. Main, Bloomington

ESTABLISHED

1933

CEMETERY & FUNERAL HOME CREMATION PRE-ARRANGEMENTS

www.EastLawn-Bloomington.com 1002 Airport Road, Bloomington, IL 61704

309-662-1222 Owned and operated by SCI Illinois Services, Inc.

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

1961

1955 60

1540 E. College Ave. Normal 309-452-7436 www.themusicshoppe.com

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

1971

107 S. Prospect Bloomington, IL 61704 309-893-4204

“Making Bloomington families smile for over 30 years!

Dairy Delight

115 N. Chestnut, Onarga, IL (815) 268-7351

1971

® ®

827-4811

GENE’S

603 W. Oak Street, Fairbury, IL (815) 692-4321

Marcirst is celebrating 60 years of providing a lifetime of services in support of people with developmental disabilities and their families in McLean County! www.marcirst.org

See Brian Thoennes 410 N. Clinton • Blm. • Ph. 829-8451

1971

Member FdiC “A strong friend for your family” 133 E. Krack St., Forrest, IL (815) 657-8248

EAST LAWN

84 Great Years

Seek Shelter Today!

BRIAN THOENNES

First State Bank of Forrest

Founded by families in 1955, centered on people always.

ARS

(Inside the Mount Pisgah Baptist Church)

1914

1931

Residential • Commercial Fully Insured Illinois State License #1

BRA

1811 Eastland Drive 801 W. Market Street

ESTABLISHED

MEMORIAL GARDENS

1507 E. Vernon, normal

1953

1104 n. Main st.

Bloomington, il 61701 (309) 828-2422

1913

www.thebabyfold.org Normal, IL

registration now open.

Attorneys at Law

Costigan & Wollrab, P.C.

2047 Ireland Grove Rd. Bloomington, IL 61704 (309) 663-7524

Member FdiC “A Full Service Bank Where Friendliness Prevails” Box 47, Graymont 815-743-5951 314 Crittendon, Chenoa 815-945-7871 1100 W. Howard, Pontiac 815-844-4433 www.sbofgray.com

“Always a Shade Better” COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL AWNINGS &TENT RENTALS

Your Hometown Plumbing, Heating & PVF Wholesale Distributor

ILLINOIS

301 W. Washington St. Bloomington, IL

1971

1971

MIKE FLYNN COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL HEART OF AMERICA REALTORS®

2027 Ireland Grove, Rd Bloomington,IL 309-662-1648 www.chucksharley-dav.com

Serving McLean County for 44 YEARS BROKER – LAWYER – REALTOR®

ESTABLISHED

1976

ESTABLISHED

1974

HURLBERT’S SIDING & WINDOWS

Pianos Plus

Serving Central Illinois & Western Indiana since 1971!

We want to earn and deserve your business!!

1336 E. Empire, Bloomington

1-800-222-6292

mlynn@cbhoa.com 309.662.2124

HORINE’S

YOUR FINER PIANO SHOW ROOM

Check out our weekly Pantagraph ads for savings on Hunter-Douglas products!

(309) 663-PLUS 888-231-8430 www.horines.net

Celebrating 39 years 127 E. Beaufort, Normal Ph. (309) 454-1713 402 N. Main, Bloomington Ph. (309) 827-5522

2015 Annual Report ★★★★★★★★★

The Pantagraph • Sunday, March 22, 2015 • F9

www.pantagraph.com

Honor Roll of area businesses ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ ESTABLISHED

1976

ESTABLISHED

1976

ESTABLISHED

1978

ESTABLISHED

1979

BLOOMINGTON MEATS “Where Service Makes Friends” I-55 & Rt. 116 • Pontiac (815) 842-3344

www.lynnchevroletbuick.com ESTABLISHED

1981

• Experience the Al Legg Difference • 39 Years of Experience • 2014 RE/MAX Choice #1 Individual Sales Broker of the Year • Ranked #1 in the RE/MAX Illinois/St. Louis Region for 2014

AL LEGG

North Street & Broadway In The Heart of Uptown Normal

Cell: 309-531-2177 Email: al@allegg.com Website: allegg.com Each Ofice Independently Owned and Operated.

Mon.: 9 – 6 • Tues. – Fri.: 9 – 5 Saturday: 9 – 3

ESTABLISHED

1981

2401 S. Bunn St. Bloomington, IL

309.452.1612

(309) 828-9731

ESTABLISHED

1980

Over 1700 apartments in more than 40 great locations!

309-827-8576

www.solidgoldjewelers.net

www.apartment-mart.com

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

1983

1980

Our ofice is open 7 days a week

“Best Meat on Bunn St.”

1982

ESTABLISHED

New Vera Bradley Summer Launch...Available Now! 1615 E Empire St, Bloomington, IL 61701

(309) 663-2241 moleholeofeastland.com

ESTABLISHED

1983

1983

Canine Classic Spa & Resort So Exclusive...

Only Pets Are Allowed!!

• Doggi Daycare • Boarding • Grooming • Training 2405 Springield Rd., Blm.

309-829-5023

Exceptional, Fun & Rewarding Classes Gymnastics, Tae Kwon Do, Dance, Cheerleading, Jiu-Jitsu Fantastic Birthday Parties! www.victoryacademy1.com

www.k9classics.com

Ph. (309) 662-4927

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

1987

1988

DRISCOLL

Our Tax Professionals have 11-28 Years Experience!

taxaccountingplus.com 501 N. Clinton Bloomington

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL GRADE

1210 Fort Jesse Road, Normal, Illinois 309.454.1611

(309) 827-4010

www.BratcherComfort.com

1030 W. Reynolds, Pontiac (815) 842-1143 or (800) 851-7605 www.driscollmotors.com

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

1991

1991

Reading Math/Algebra Writing Study Skills ACTTest Prep

New 24/7 Self-Service Rental & Payment Kiosk

At-Home Care For Your Loved Ones!

CNAs, NAs & Companions/Homemakers

Normal 662-8537 Peoria 683-3601

2427 S Main St, Bloomington, IL 61704 309-829-4585 www.ulockitministorages.com

Bloomington • 309.828.1516 Pontiac • 815.844.2400

www.obrienteamnormal.com

218 N. Main Street Pontiac 815-844-6692 Visit Us On the Web: PontiacProud.org

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

1601 Fort Jesse Road Normal, Illinois 309.454.1222

1992

1992

1996

1997

ESTABLISHED

1992

1992

O’BRIEN MITSUBISHI For better grades call Sylvan today!

211 N. Veterans Parkway, Suite 4 Bloomington, IL 61704 (309) 662-6922 www.expresspros.com

DRY ILYS’SHING WALL H IN I C IN F Charles Hacker C. Owner Oice: 309-663-2224 Fax: 309-661-8279 2911 Gill Street, Unit B Bloomington Fully Insured Walls & Ceilings Smooth/Texture Bul-nose Corner Bead

www.acaringtouch.info

Torch Award for Business Integrity Trust • Performance • Integrity 2013 Beter Business Bureau Heart of Illinois

ESTABLISHED

1998

1997

Downtown Bloomington Association’s

DECKER • basements • bathrooms • kitchens Just Google dldecker 61704 275-7404 ESTABLISHED

1999

Family Owned & Operated Over 20 Years!

(309) 452-4848

John Lovelass Managing Broker 203 North Prospect Rd., Suite 200 Bloomington, IL 61704

great shops, great food, great times!

Check out F1RST FR1DAYS!

Lic. #058107624

meredithsproperties.com Phone: (309) 454-4100 Fax: (309) 454-4101

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

1217 S. Adelaide St. Normal, IL 61761

2003

2003

downtownbloomington.org

2004

On the Square in Historic Downtown Bloomington 2015 Season: May 2 - Oct. 31

2902 Gill Street Bloomington, IL 61704 (309) 662-3330 risingstarsacademy.com

Every Saturday, 7:30 - Noon

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

2005

2006

Looking forward to seeing you at our next sales Pam & John

2101 Eastland Dr., Suite F Bloomington, IL

LEXINGTON , IL

H SMALL TOWN VALUES H 1206 Towanda Ave. Bloomington

Student & Residential Listings

Ph. 309-829-3655

Treating our community for over 12 years!

ONLY 10 MINUTES North of Menards on I-55

View our complete inventory of new and used vehicles at

www.BarkerChevy.com ESTABLISHED

www.classactrealty.com Normal, Illinois

1302 Franklin Ave., Suite 1000, Normal (309) 268-3400

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

2006 1602 Glenbridge Rd. & 2003 Jacobssen

www.katieskids.net Developing relationships...the heart of quality child care

2007

M&S SECURITY SERVICES, LLC

2009 Check out the new Alex and Ani Collection!

Stop in today!

Security, Fire & Cameras Mickey Little, Owner 605 S. McClun St., Bloomington Ph. (309) 829-9800

309 662 3838

We Make Better Hearing Easy & Affordable

tamarasestatesales.com

Purchase Batteries & Repair online

309-365-2161

Family-owned Celebrating Almost 16 Years of Excellence

309-454-2960

Guaranteed Credit Approval

2011 COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 1716 RT Dunn Drive, Suite 4 Bloomington

114 North Street (Uptown Normal)

Normal | 452-7999

309-808-2125 www.core3pm.com

309-664-6200

AlwaysHear.Net ESTABLISHED

ESTABLISHED

2011

It’s Like Getting a Bedroom And Bath For Free!

At $735 (plus utilities) our 3br/2bth row home Perfect for couples, families and roommate sharing.

Come by and see why.

Certain income restrictions apply.

309.451.5555 info@summertree.biz 711 W. Orlando, Normal, IL. 61761 Weekdays 9 to 5 - Closed Weekends

2012

“No Order Too Smalll” Custom Decals, Apparel, Firearms and Hydrographics

Bloomington, IL www.deertrackdesigns.com

309-830-6279

Facebook.com/deertrackdesign

2015 Annual Report ★★★★★★★★★

F10 • The Pantagraph • Sunday, March 22, 2015

ANNUAL REPORT

www.pantagraph.com

Streator seeing business growth Greg Stanmar gregstanmar@comcast.net

DAVID PROEBER, The Pantagraph

Olympia Junior High School math and science teacher Dee Dee Stine encourages students Tyler Miller, left, Connor Noreuil and Hunter Berges as they use a card game to strengthen their math skills.

Schools push for funding Derek Beigh dbeigh@pantagraph.com

B L O O M I N GT O N — From spring’s sales tax referendum to summer’s school funding bill to fall’s Vision 20/20 policy plan, funding was never far from focus for McLean County schools over the last year.

By a margin of more t h a n 2- to -1 , Mc L ea n County voters on March 18, 2014 rejected a 1 percent county sales tax that 13 public school districts could have used to pay for facilities and pay off building bond debt.

The proposed county sales tax would have allowed the collection of a penny on every dollar from anyone buying eligible items in McLean County.

That was expected to generate about $17.7 million annually for the public school districts, shared based on their enrollments.

Normal-based McLean County Unit 5 would have received most of the revenue, $9.5 million, and District 87 about $4 million, annually.

That decision led districts to cut staff and push harder for savings elsewhere to fight falling state payments, which would have gone even lower under a school funding formula proposed over the summer.

Local school officials

STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph

Normal Community West High School junior D.J. Williams, left, and senior Jacob Penn work on “The Scream,” in art teacher Beth Smith’s classroom recently. universally opposed Senate Bill 16, which aimed to help districts with small property tax bases by redistributing state aid money. Unit 5 would have lost $3.3 million per year, and District 87 $880,000.

The proposal did not pass, but State Sen. Andy Manar, D-Bunker Hill, resurrected it this spring as Senate Bill 1 with costof-living alterations to help it pass the legislature.

State Sen. Jason Barickman, R-Bloomington, leapt into the fray last month with a proposal based on what teachers

suggest. He backs the idea of Illinois Vision 20/20, a policy plan developed by educators.

Barickman said that before redistribution is considered, the legislature must fix a funding formula that schools, taxpayers and legislators don’t understand. Barickman is pushing evidence-based funding, which is based on what students need rather than what the state wants to pay.

The debate expanded wh e n Ho u se S p ea ke r Michael Madigan created a bipartisan task force

to tackle the issue. Gov. Bruce Rauner has not embraced the overhaul, but in his budget proposal, he calls for boosting school funding by $300 million.

“I believe new legislation regarding funding reform coupled with new revenues will determine the reality of the governor’s ideas,” said Guy Gradert, superintendent at Ridgeview schools. “I am afraid cutting costs in other public services cannot do it alone.”

Follow Derek Beigh on Twitter: @pg_beigh.

STREATOR — Despite a declining population, this city is on the upswing, according to the man who keeps the pulse of the business community.

“Things are going well here,” said Jack Dzuris, head of the Streator Area Chamber of Commerce a n d I n d u s t ry. “ We ’re retaining what we have and we have two or three businesses that are growing.”

This is despite a 2.1 percent population drop since 2010, to just over 13, 400 people. “ Pe o p l e a re ge t t i n g older and if they are in their 50s they’re not having any more children,” said Dzuris.

The city still offers skilled labor in a bluecollar town and that continues to attract new business, he said.

A s pa t i e n t se rv i ce s decline, St. Mary’s Hospital, once one of the top employers in the city, now ranks “around fourth or fifth,” with 340 people, he said.

Good news came in this year when Stertil ALM from Holland announced it had acquired additional property and plans to expand in its manufacture of lift products this spring, adding 20 to 30 jobs to its 200-person workforce.

“That’s a big deal with the company trying to expand,” said Dzuris.

Its predecessor was the first occupant in 1987 of the new industrial park on the south side.

Results Call Center in North Pointe Plaza was a pleasant surprise to Dzuris with its anticipated 150 workers when it opened four years ago. It is now up

to 400 people and growing.

Eighty percent of its workforce lives in Streator, he said. The company handles incoming calls for its clients and does make not unsolicited “cold calls,” he said.

Owens Brockway, long a staple in the manufacture of glass bottles for such companies as Miller Beer, has added a new line, making vodka bottles. The company now employs 200 people.

Vactor Manufacturing, maker of municipal equipment such as sewer vacuums, is now the city’s lead employer, with 600 people. It also anticipates growth in the next year.

Despite the good news “ we ca n n eve r h ave enough,” Dzuris said.

Streator and surrounding cities are now marketing their work forces as part of a regional concept that includes LaSalle and Livingston counties, he said.

In a recent meeting of Streator leaders, enhanced v o c a t i o n a l t ra i n i n g , acquiring additional land for companies to expand, assistance for small businesses, access of online opportunities and streamline permitting procedures were listed as some of the goals.

Scot Wrighton, the new and first city manager, replacing Paul Nicholson, who retired, said 80 percent of workers traditionally are with existing businesses and not dependent on a new employer moving to town.

The unemployment rate in Streator and LaSalle County, according to state labor statistics, is 7.8 percent, about two percentage points higher than the state average.

STEVE SMEDLEY, The Pantagraph

The exterior of the Owens Brockway plant in Streator. The company, long a staple in the manufacture of glass bottles for such companies as Miller Beer, recently started making vodka bottles.

District 87 on mission to provide Internet access for all students Barry Reilly For many of us today, the importance of the Internet and the numerous resources it provides is something that can sometimes be taken for granted.

We have come to expect and even demand high speed, reliable Internet access in our communities.

Information continues to grow at a fast pace and today m o r e Barry than ever, Reilly it is critical that all students have access to the information super highway. However, we have some in our community that do not have the means to obtain this critical need.

The educational mission of Bloomington public schools is to challenge, support, and inspire all students to learn and achieve to their highest potential in order to become productive citizens and lifelong learners.

Internet access beyond the classroom is becoming more and more crucial for our students to succeed.

For those living in poverty,

the choice between Internet access and other basic needs is quite simple and understandably so.

Social justice can be defined in part as justice in terms of the opportunities in society. Opportunities in the form of access to information can be the difference between success and failure.

In District 87, more than half of our students come from low-income households as determined by the number of students who participate in the free or reduced lunch program.

We believe the achievem e n t ga p t h a t ex i s ts between low-income and non-low-income students can be reduced and even overcome.

One key is equal opportunities for all students when it comes to Internet access. This aids in breaking down barriers that some students have to overcome in order to be successful.

As we continue to move forward with our oneto-one curriculum plan, we are excited about the opportunities for our students. To help with these opportunities, District 87 is partnering with Frontier Communications to provide high speed, reliable Internet access to all

low-income students.

This Internet connection will actually be from the home to the District 87 n e two rk , a l l ow i n g for filtering similar to when a student is sitting and working on a school computer.

This access is provided through a Wi-Fi router placed in the home. District 87 has a great capacity to help our students connect to the Internet a f te r sc h o o l h o u rs a s o u r I n te r n e t co n n e c tions are used very little once students and staff leave for the day. Providing students with access t h ro u g h o u r I n te r n e t makes sense given the availability of use in the evening hours.

We began piloting this effort shortly after the new year began, and with the help of Frontier, 38 students have now been provided with an Internet connection. This phase has gone very well and we anticipate starting next fall providing our lowincome junior high school s t u d e n ts w i t h I n te rnet access.

These students will have the right tools in order to be successful. Parents also will have the opportunity to gain access to information vital to helping their

student’s success.

Our mission clearly states that it is our responsibility to challenge, support, and inspire all students to learn and achieve to their highest potential.

We t a k e t h i s v e r y

seriously and believe our efforts to provide this Internet connection is one strong step toward breaking the cycle of poverty while providing our students with their best chance for success.

We hope you will join us in this effort by supporting our schools, our staff, and our students.

Reilly is superintendent of the Bloomington District 87 school district.

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ANNUAL REPORT

www.pantagraph.com

The Pantagraph • Sunday, March 22, 2015 • F11

LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER, The Pantagraph

Country Financial workers walk at Country. Country Financial’s net worth saw a $173 million hike to $3.2 billion in 2014.

State Farm, Country see net worth grow Edith Brady-Lunny eblunny@pantagraph.com

BLOOMINGTON — Fewer catastrophic weather events last year h e l p e d b o os t t h e n e t worth for the two major insurance firms headquartered in Bloomington.

State Farm’s net worth increased to a record $80 billion last year, up from $75.9 billion in 2013. The 2014 profit for State Farm was $3.4 billion.

Country Financial’s net worth saw a $173 million hike to $3.2 billion in 2014.

The company’s profit was $249.8 million last year.

A s t ro n g re t u r n o n investments helped State

Farm overcome an underwriting loss last year.

McLean County’s largest employer saw $939 million in underwriting losses in its property-casualty co m pa n i e s o n ea r n e d premium of $56.9 billion.

Those companies include primarily auto and homeowner’s businesses.

T h e a u to d iv i s i o n reported losses from two hail, wind, and flood events. The developments of three planned regional h u bs i n At l a n ta , G a . , Phoenix and Dallas also contributed to the losses.

Country Financial noted higher than average property losses related to freeze losses during the

The retention of current customers and the addition of new ones also helped to boost Country Financial revenues.

The use of unmanned aerial systems to collect data is on Country Financial’s radar as a method of improving customer service in the future.

The UAS technology will allow disaster teams access to quickly collect data during catastroPantagraph file photo phes, according to CounState Farm reported a 5.4 percent increase in net worth but try Financial officials.

Crop claims also could a 20 percent drop in profit for 2014. be processed more effifirst quarter and storms from property-casualty ciently through use of the during the second quarter operations was $17.5 mil- unmanned devices. of 2014. lion for Country Financial The positive financial returns for State Farm The underwriting gain last year.

ISU’s accomplishments rooted in history, community support Larry Dietz Illinois State University recently held its annual Founders Day events to celebrate the university’s establishment in 1857 and to highlight the accomplishments of students, f a c u l t y, staff and alumni.

During t h o s e events, I had a chance to reflect on the hisLarry tory and Dietz mission of this great institution.

Illinois State has been an integral part of this community for 158 years and has deep connections to important historical figures and events.

Jesse Fell, a prominent local citizen, provided the first parcels of land for the new school. A young attorney named Abraham Lincoln was asked to draw up legal documents to formally establish our university.

ISU began with a small class of dedicated stud e n ts a n d h a s g row n steadily in the past 150 years to a student body of more than 20,000.

It continues to be a first-choice institution for academically talented a n d h i g h ly m o t iva te d students. The number of students from underrepresented groups has grown steadily in recent ye a rs , w i t h m a n y o f those students being the first in their families to attend college.

Students enter a campus community with c h a l l e n g i n g a ca d e m i c programs and dedicated faculty and staff memb e rs wh o p rov i d e t h e support students need for both academic and personal success.

That supportive atmosphere has helped Illinois

State achieve a graduation rate of 71.8 percent, which places it among the top 10 percent of colleges and universities in the nation.

I SU i s c o n s i s te n t ly recognized as a great value in higher education by publications such as U.S. News and World Report, Kiplinger’s and Money magazines.

Active learning experiences for students in all majors stress the importance of civic engagement as a lifelong responsibility. An interdisciplinary minor in civic engagement can be paired with any major to further broaden a student’s learning and social awareness.

Illinois State has been named one of only 50 colleges in the nation as a Civic Learning and Democratic Engagement Leadership Institution by the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators.

The university also is n a t i o n a l ly re cog n i ze d as a military-friendly school, providing programs and services to support the education of student veterans.

That connection dates back to the tumultuous years of the American Civil War when faculty and students volunteered for military service.

The university hosted a Navy officer training program during World Wa r I I a n d co n t i n u e s to have a vibrant Army ROTC program.

An education at Illinois State prepares graduates for life and careers in an ever-changing, globalized world. Our graduates go on to be leaders in their chosen fields. Our alumni include diplomats, accomplished musicians and recording artists, stage and screen actors, n a t i o n a l ly re cog n i ze d educators and scientists,

and the leaders of some of America’s most successful companies.

In addition to its educational mission, Illinois State University also is a strong and committed partner to the Bloomington-Normal community and Central Illinois. Our students are a vital part of the community, working in local businesses and volunteering their time and talents to benefit community agencies and organizations.

L o ca l gove r n m e n ts, businesses, school districts and other organizations routinely draw on the energy, creativity, research and expertise of our faculty and staff.

ISU also provides a great number of enriching experiences for area citizens.

Nationally and intern a t i o n a l ly re cog n i ze d speakers and entertainers routinely make stops to Bone Student Center.

Un ive rs i ty t h ea te r productions and performances by student and faculty music ensembles and guest artists take place in the Center for the Performing Arts.

The University Galleries in Uptown Normal has rotating exhibits by students, art faculty and some of today’s most exciting contempo rary artists.

Thousands of fans flock to Hancock Stadium, Redbird Arena and our other sports facilities every year to cheer on the Redbirds.

Illinois State University would not be the vital institution it is today without the support of this community.

Our students, faculty, staff and alumni look forward to continuing this great partnership well into the future.

resulted in an 11.2 percent salary hike for Chairman and CEO Ed Rust Jr., who earned $12.86 million in 2014.

Rust’s compensation is comprised of a base salary and at-risk incentive compensation that is based on growth, financial results, customer retention and employee satisfaction for the previous three-year period.

His base salary has not changed since 2001.

Country Financial declined to provide compensation information for its CEO Kurt F. Bock.

Follow Edith Brady-Lunny on Twitter: @pg_blunny

Shorter stays.

Fewer complications.

Better outcomes.

When patients come to OSF St. Joseph for their heart surgery, they get back to their lives and the people they love quicker.

You have a choice. Choose the hospital that continues to set the standard in heart care.

One heart surgery at a time.

For more information, please visit www.osfstjoseph.org/heart.

Thoracic and Cardiac Surgeons with HeartCare Midwest at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center: Bradley Smith, MD (left) Jesse VanLe, MD (right)

HeartCare Midwest 1505 Eastland Drive, Suite 330 Bloomington, IL 61701 (309) 663-9800

Dietz is president of Illinois State University.

ANNUAL REPORT

F12 • The Pantagraph • Sunday, March 22, 2015

www.pantagraph.com

Uptown & downtown Whether you’re in uptown Normal or downtown Bloomington, you’ll find plenty to do with shopping, restaurants and entertainment.

LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER, The Pantagraph

Photos clockwise from left: Bloomington Mayor Tari Renner suggested looking at changing liquor regulations to allow more sidewalk cafes in downtown Bloomington in hopes of creating what he called a livelier, more walkable atmosphere.

Joe and Ruth Haney look out on to Lee Street from the building on 407-409 W. Washington St., Bloomington, which they plan to renovate into luxury apartments.

Barry Blinderman, director of Illinois State University Galleries, discusses the work of Walter Robinson, a painter who was featured in the first exhibition at the new University Galleries at the Uptown Station parking deck.

LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER, The Pantagraph

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., and Normal Mayor Chris Koos talk in August about development that occurred in uptown Normal after the construction of Uptown Station, seen at right. It was one of the key projects in the 15-year-old uptown redevelopment plan, which officials now are looking to update.

DAVID PROEBER, The Pantagraph

DAVID PROEBER

Do you know what Make Your Money Mean More is?

It’s a theme that has been traveling through our community rapidly and is extremely popular at O’Brien Mitsubishi.

The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is built here at our local plant by our friends, family and neighbors. The more of these vehicles that are sold, the better off this community is.

Here are just some of the few that have Made Their Money Mean More over the last year by shopping local and buying from O’Brien Mitsubishi.

Ryan Gremore General Manager/ Vice President

Bill Danosky 16 Years

Chris Todd 23 Years

Jay Miller 8 Years

Kate Morris 25 Years

Paul Hepp 3 Years

Scott Lovett 8 Years

Bill Norton 13 Years

Scott Gundy 11 Years

Amy Kiper 2 Years

Ralph Whitsitt 2 Years–

Josh Zakery 9 Years

O’BRIEN MITSUBISHI 1601 Fort Jesse Road • Normal, Illinois 309.454.1222 • www.obrienteamnormal.com

Steven McCarthy 9 Years

Lucas Stocker 1 Year