Annual Report 2 by Panta Graph

ANNUAL REPORT 2

TUESDAY, March 13, 2012

Randy Kindred

No time left for savoring sports in 2011 aybe it is inevitable given the instantaneous nature of society. News is on Twitter or Facebook seconds after it happens. There is a rush at both ends of the information superhighway. Life is in a hurry. It is especially true in sports. That was clear in 2011, a year in which titles were won and goals achieved, but little was savored. There’s no time. It is on to the next sport or travel team or college showcase. Present turns to past faster than ever. Blink and you miss it. Living in the moment is like a 30-second timeout. No need to sit down. You’re up and running again in a heartbeat. And when the game ends? Get out of the way. There are places to go, faster than you can say, “Is Smith still in the locker room?” Not likely. Those of us from the eighttrack tape generation can remember when players showered after games. They would chat with each other … spend a few minutes rehashing what just happened, good or bad. Talk about old school. In 2011, they were dressed and out the door as if a fire alarm had sounded. Many emerged sooner than the poor coach, who addressed the troops and headed to the nearest wall, hoping to avoid the player stampede. Where were they headed? Hard to say … other than it wasn’t the bus. Mostly, players go their separate ways, riding with whoever jotted their name on the “signout sheet.” It’s as much a staple of athletic teams as the scorebook. The system offers immediacy. Mom/Dad don’t have to delay asking, “Why did you let that guy get by you?” or “How can they play Smith ahead of you?” Used to be that could wait. Life won’t stand for it. The fastbreak is no longer limited to basketball. It permeates all rungs of sports, from youth to junior high, high school, even college and pro. A youth who shows promise is hurried along to a 10-and-under travel team. Everyone else is doing it, and if you want to keep pace … Junior high athletes finding success on the court or in the batter’s box are pressed immediately as to where they will play next. Never mind that they’re in eighth, seventh, even sixth grade. There are important matters to consider. What high school coach’s system will suit them best? Can they play right away? Where will they get the most “exposure?” The clock is ticking. None of it can wait. High school freshmen with potential — real or imagined — are groomed for college scholarships by how they train, the travel team they make, the camps they attend. The race is to get noticed sooner than later. Later is too late. A college standout is projected into the pros before he attends his first class. How will his skills translate? Will he leave school after one year? What round would he be drafted? Reach the highest level and it becomes: Where’s the next contract? We saw it in 2011. The Cardinals win the World Series and immediately the focus is: Where is (Albert) Pujols going? Will he stay or sign elsewhere? Where’s the best fit? Soon we found out. He was off to Anaheim for $254 million over 10 years. It said so on Twitter. Life is in a hurry.

Randy Kindred is at rkindred@pantagraph .com. The Kindred Blog: www.pantagraph.com /blogs

The Pantagraph/LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER

Work continues on the Uptown Station in Normal. The multimodal transportation center is just a few months away from opening.

Last puzzle pieces falling into shape By Mary Ann Ford mford@pantagraph.com

NORMAL — Nearly 3½ years after an uptown redevelopment project was halted because of lack of funding, four new plans are under council review. Meanwhile, a key public component of the uptown plan — Uptown Station — is only months away from opening. Last month, the City Council heard presentations from four developers: JSM Development; Harlem Irving/Tartan Realty; One Main Development; and Raufeisen Development to fill the gaping hole on the west side of the traffic circle. Each proposed retail on the first floor. JSM would bring offices and apartments to top floors; Harlem Irving/Tartan envision a boutique hotel, a health and wellness spa, and condo-quality apartments; One Main, offices and condo rentals; and Raufeisen, top floor apartments. One Main Development of Champaign had to abandon its original plan for an upscale condo and retail development in fall 2008 after it couldn’t get financing following chaos in the banking industry.

Plans to fill the hole at One Main in uptown Normal are being discussed by the Normal City Council. The site has had only a foundation and a fence since then. The town had some development interest in the property but decided to issue a request for proposals in October. Ten developers responded. A decision on which project the council supports could come later this month. “The key is can they finance the project,” said City Manager Mark Peterson. If everything falls into place, construction could begin by fall with completion next spring, Peterson said. Meanwhile, work on Uptown Station which will serve Amtrak, bus and taxi passen-

gers on the first floor and house the town’s administrative offices and the City Council chambers on the upper floors, is on track to be completed this spring with move-in in June and a grand opening in July. “It’s gone as smooth as could be,” said Peterson. “At the end of the day, the building will be very nice and professional; not ostentatious or over the top. It will be a building we can be proud of.” The council recently agreed to negotiate a contract for a first-floor Subway Café to provide food, drink and sundry items. The bulk of the cost of the

Normal advances plans to fill hole as Uptown Station nears opening

63,000-square-foot, fourstory building on the southwest corner of the traffic circle was paid by a $22 million federal Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery grant. There is a 400-space parking deck on the west side of Uptown Station. Last year,Union Pacific upgraded its tracks from St. Louis to Dwight — including the line through the Twin Cities and along the south side of Uptown Station — to high-speed rail lines.The new lines will allow trains, including Amtrak, to travel up to 110 mph, about 30 mph faster than the current average speed. For safety reasons, the railroad asked the town to close the Constitution Trail crossing at the station. This spring, the town will begin construction on a permanent detour of that portion of the trail, taking it east to Linden Street, across the tracks, then west through a parking lot on the north side of the tracks, eventually connecting to Gateway Plaza between Uptown Station and the Children’s Discovery Museum. Work on the plaza is expected to begin this spring. SEE NORMAL / PAGE 2

Changes may crimp growth at airport By Kevin Barlow kbarlow@pantagraph.com

BLOOMINGTON — In nine of the past 10 years, the Central Illinois Regional Airport has broken passenger traffic records. Now, with AirTran Airways leaving and Allegiant Air and Frontier Airlines arriving, airport officials are waiting to see how the changes — which will include adding new flights to Orlando and Denver — will affect the 2012 numbers. “We anticipate we will have a drop off, because we are making changes in the middle of the year,” said Bloomington Airport Authority Chairman Paul Harmon. “But, we are encouraged that our numbers were up 4 percent in January and so if we can continue to have a good start now, that will give us some cushion toward the end of the year.” That concern comes off of a record 2011, during which 579,265 passengers flew in and out of the airport, a 3.5 percent increase from the 559,481 travelers during 2010. This past January, the airport served 43,318 passengers,a 4.3 increase over the 41,542 passengers from January 2011. Last year’s record pace came despite the November announcement by No. 2 carrier AirTran Airways that, after 16 years of service, it would cease flights from Bloomington to Orlando, Fla. and Atlanta, Ga., in June. Southwest Airlines purchased AirTran in a $1.4 billion deal in 2010. Airport Executive Director Carl Olson said CIRA tried to con-

The Pantagraph/DAVID PROEBER

Community leaders from across Bloomington-Normal gathered for the announcement of the arrival of Frontier Airlines at Central Illinois Regional Airport on Feb. 9.

vince Southwest to retain the service, but the airline prefers markets where it has a minimum of 400,000 to 500,000 fliers annually and a minimum of eight daily flights in a market. The airline is also discontinuing service to other smaller markets throughout the country served by AirTran. “It’s going to create a hole for us because AirTran represented 40 percent of our traf-

fic,” Olson said. But some of that void was filled in January, when Allegiant Air also announced it would provide twice-weekly flights to Orlando, Fla. beginning in May. A month later, Frontier Airlines said it would provide four flights per week to Denver, also beginning in May. SEE AIRPORT / PAGE 2

2 • ANNUAL REPORT 2 • Tuesday, March 13, 2012

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End of several entertainment eras marked Arts scene in Twin Cities loses notable members By Dan Craft dcraft@pantagraph.com

In a departure from recent years, when marquees have gone dark and buildings have come down, most of the leavetakings on the local arts scene in 2011 involved people. Chief among them was Illinois Symphony Orchestra music director Karen Lynne Deal, who ended her 11-year run as only the second conductor in the ISO’s history. (Kenneth Kiesler was her predecessor.) After Deal stepped down from the podium in May, the quest for her successor began in earnest. Five finalists are currently vying for the position, with a decision due at season’s end (late May/early June). The music front is also where other departures of note occurred, including the retirement of Illinois Wesleyan University’s jazz program founder, Thomas Streeter, who’d put the swing into the music department’s step 40 years earlier. Two of the Twin Cities’ longstanding bands of note delivered their swan songs in 2011: blues favorites Hip Pocket, who performed a farewell concert in the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts at the year’s start, and rock trio Backyard Tire Fire, who bade us farewell with an end-ofyear show at the Castle Theatre. But for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction: BTF’s founder, Ed Anderson, opened a new business, the first of its kind in the area — downtown Bloomington’s Rock School. Also arriving in 2011 was

Country music star Dierks Bentley performs April 28 at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum in Bloomington. a new summer opera series at Illinois State University, the Midwest Institute of Opera, which premiered a weeklong stand with “The Magic Flute,” and promises more in the warm-weather seasons ahead. Pontiac’s Crystal Palace, housed in a former Moose Lodge, also put itself on the map in 2011 with a series of high-profile shows, inside and outside the venue, packing names like Bret Michaels, Ted Nugent, Darius Rucker, The Band Perry, Uncle Kracker and Montgomery Gentry. But the glory was shortlived as the venue closed its doors without explanation earlier this month. Two community theater groups whose home bases were destroyed by forces of nature returned to action in 2011: Streator’s Community Players, whose Engle Lane Theater was leveled by a tornado in 2010, and Paxton’s Majestic Theatre Group, whose home burned to the ground in 2007. On the movie front,

NORMAL FROM PAGE 1

Besides major projects,uptown Normal also has had its share of new businesses open over the last year including Merry Ann’s Diner in the JSM building at the corner of College and Fell avenues; Chill Out! Frozen

AIRPORT FROM PAGE 1

Helping to attract Frontier to CIRA was the creation of a Community Air Service Initiative by the McLean County Chamber of Commerce that included money from private businesses, Illinois Wesleyan University and local governments. “The Airport Authority is working hard to bring new airlines in, but because of consolidation in the industry, there are fewer and fewer airlines available,” Olson said. For now, airport officials are happy to be able to keep travel to Florida and add

The Pantagraph/CARLOS T. MIRANDA

Illinois Symphony Orchestra music director and conductor Karen Lynne Deal leads rehearsal at Braden Auditorium in Normal. Normal’s Stadium 14 became (and remains) the only downstate bijou installed with D-Box seating— which shakes, rattles and rocks cinemagoers in time to action on screen. In October, IWU was the site of the world premiere of Dreamworks Animation’s hit, “Puss in Boots,” thanks to DreamWorks Animation’s honcho (Bill Damaschke) being an IWU alum in town for homecoming. Finally, some notable anniversaries were observed in 2011, chief among them the fifthyear birthdays for downtown Bloomington’s U.S. Cellular Coliseum and Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts; the first-year celebration for the Castle Theatre’s rebirth as a concert venue; and a 35th season for the area’s longest-running, last-surviving dinner theater, Conklin’s Barn II at Goodfield.

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yogurt at 116 W. North St.; The Pod, 104 E. Beaufort St., which sells a variety of art and other items produced by local artists; and The Rock, 201-203 W. North St., which features burgers, subs, gyros, falafel and baklava. Meanwhile, the Masonic Lodge at the corner of Broadway and College Avenue was razed to make way for a new Commerce Bank.

Denver. “By adding some new destinations, it really opens things to the west,” said airport spokesman Fran Strebing. “It’s a change for us, but we are also excited about facing some new challenges.” Frontier Airlines previously provided service at the airport from 1997 to 2001. “I really think the fact that we were able to make deals with Frontier Airlines and Allegiant Air in a relatively short amount of time speaks volumes about our airport,” Harmon said. “It is an indication we are continuing to grow even in a struggling economy.” Other changes are in store for the airport in the coming

year. A $6.6 million federal grant will be used to upgrade the baggage screening system, and allow the check-in process to be faster and easier. A 12,000-square foot addition will be built to accommodate the changes. Construction should start this spring and take about a year. Also, two jet boarding bridges will be purchased to help avoid situations in which passengers may have to walk outside to or from an aircraft to the terminal. An additional three jet boarding bridges will be purchased to replace three older units. The airport also plans to install security cameras and new body scanners later this spring, Strebing said.

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ANNUAL REPORT 2 • Tuesday, March 13, 2012 • 3

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Community

Where we live

The Pantagraph/DAVID PROEBER

Zacharia Morris, 3, Bloomington, stands in respect of firefighters who lost their lives during the attacks of 9/11, as the Bloomington Fire Department sounded its sirens at noon at its Lee Street station Sept. 11, 2011.

The Pantagraph/DAVID PROEBER

Henry Bowen of Bloomington examines steel sculptures built by artist Stephen G. Phillips of Brazil, Ind., during the Sugar Creek Arts Festival in uptown Normal last July.

ho we are as a community can sometimes be defined by where we live. Living in Central Illinois will cause those who move here from the mountains or the coasts to wonder what we see in the great expanse that was once best described as “Flatland.” The events and places that make up Central Illinois have grown up out of a tradition for history and shared interests, like how we spend our time when not at work. Normal wouldn’t be the same without the Sugar Creek Arts Festival. Bloomington is the home to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Gospel Festival. Other places like Lincoln, home to the National Weather Service, found their place on the map because they fall conveniently between other places that have geologic importance. Sometimes places get to be know as plain hospitable, and that’s what Tim Dye, owner of the Pontiac Oakland Museum and Reference Center, will tell you if you ask why he moved all those historic cars to Pontiac.

The Pantagraph/LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER

Casper Jeffries with the Gayles Memorial Mass Choir of Aurora plays saxophone at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Holiday Gospel Festival at Illinois Wesleyan University's Presser Hall last January.

The Pantagraph/DAVID PROEBER

Tim Dye, owner of the Pontiac Oakland Museum and Resource Center, moves a 1931 Oakland Sport Coupe at the museum in Pontiac last May.

The Pantagraph/STEVE SMEDLEY

Meteorologist Chuck Schafer lauches a weather balloon at the National Weather Service in Lincoln last year.The balloon will reach a height of 90,000 feet, sending data back to the station in Lincoln that will aid weather forecasters in the Lincoln office.

The Pantagraph/STEVE SMEDLEY

Moncerrat Ramos, 5, dances during a summer program at the UNITY Community Center, 632 Orlando Ave. in Normal, last July. The Pantagraph/STEVE SMEDLEY

Logan County Courthouse maintenance supervisor Dennis Reves stood with the restored bell stand which holds the casting of the Seth Thomas Clock Co. at the Logan County Courthouse.

4 • Annual Report 2 • Tuesday, March 13, 2012

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Who’s Who in Real Estate Anne Fleer

Prudential Snyder Real Estate

Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors

Dan is a lifetime resident of Bloomington/Normal. He is the past owner of Mike’s Market, a family owned and operated specialty meat and bakery grocery store. Dan is an alumnus of Central Catholic High School, former President of CCHS Booster Club, and past youth coach for basketball and baseball. Dan is married to Subie Patel Kniery and they have three sons: Michael 23, Patrick, 22, and Kevin 19. Dan has been serving real estate community for over 18 years. Dan is a former president and fellow board member of the Bloomington/Normal Association of Realtors. While helping residents find and sell their homes, Dan has received awards and recognition for top Yearly Sales, Monthly Sales Leader, Buying/Listing Leader, and Sales/Production Leader from Prudential. Dan is a supporter of local businesses and charities. The greatest compliment Dan receives to this day stems from the fact that most of his business is referred from satisfied clientele and friends. If you want a knowledgeable, hardworking real estate agent, then Dan is the agent for you. Give Dan a call at 309-8262473. You can visit Dan’s web site at www.dankniery.com or e-mail him at Dankniery@aol. com. Dan looks forward to working with you in the near future. Dan is employed at Prudential Snyder Real Estate, #1 Brickyard Drive, Bloomington, IL 61701. 1060930

Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors

Lois Brennan & Frankie Thornton Re/Max Choice Lois has been a REALTOR® and multi-million dollar producer since 1984. Ph. 309-664-8518 or 309-825-8892 Frankie Lois has been a Brennan ® REALTOR since 1986 and earned her Brokers License in 1990. She has her CRS (Certified Residential Specialist). Fewer than 4% Frankie of REALTORS® Thornton hold this designation. Knowledge and experience combined with dedicated service are Frankie and Lois’ key to success. Ph. 309-664-8557 or 309-824-0714 1060925

A 42+ years Resident of Bloomington/Normal and a multimillion dollar producer with Prudential Snyder Realty, Chris truly enjoys working with Buyers and Sellers whether helping them relocate to our great area, in purchasing new construction or simply moving within Bloomington/ Normal and surrounding areas. My 29 years of experience and knowledge, as a Realtor, has proven to be my greatest asset when helping Sellers price their home, keeping stress to a minimum, and advising in the step by step process all they way to the closing. As a previous Pediatric Nurse, it has definitely enabled me to be sensitive, concerned and dedicated to your needs as a Buyer in finding that “just right” home. Above all, I have to thank all my past clients for their repeat business and customer referrals - a good percentage of my business success and not to underplay all the long term customer friendships I’ve been so lucky to have over the years. So if you’re Buying or Selling, please call Chris Weber at 309-825-3885 or (309) 661-1955! 1062366

Re/Max Choice

Keller Williams

AL LEGG Broker, CRS, CSP, RMM, QSC. He started as a Full-Time Real Estate Professional in 1976 and became a Broker in 1982, placing him with RE/MAX Choice for over 35 years.

Tracy Haas Riley & Kristen Haas Oliver Prudential Snyder Real Estate

Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors

Prudential Snyder Real Estate

Liliana Taimoorazi

Margie Simmons

Noelle Burns Team

Chris Weber

The Haas Sisters

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Margie has been a life-long resident of Bloomington-Normal. She and her husband, Tim, have 5 adult children and 4 grandchildren. She has been a REALTOR® for over 22 years, graduated from GRI and is now a Broker. She has consistently been a multimillion dollar producer. Margie is active with her church and the Bloomington Normal Board of Realtors. Margie prides herself in top quality service and invites all past and new clients to give her a call. Ph. (309) 531-2477. margiesimmons1@yahoo.com www.margiesimmons.com 1062247

Joe & Joey Lane Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors

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Noelle Burns has been a fulltime Realtor for over 12 years and is an expert in residential, new construction, and first-time home buyer transactions. Noelle is one of the highest producing agents in McLean County, not to mention she earned “Top Residential Leader” at Coldwell Banker from 2006-2011. April BauchNoelle moyer joined Burns Noelle Burn’s team in January of 2012. Their magnetic personalities, professional approach to home selling and exceptional negotiation skills contribute to their success. April When you are Bauchmoyer ready to buy and or sell contact Noelle at 309.830.2404/ nburns@cbhoa.com OR April Bauchmoyer at 309.660.7506/ abauchmoyer@cbhoa.com.

Al Legg

Buying or selling a home in today’s environment can be a challenge, which is why you want an agent who has KNOWLEDGE and proven SUCCESS. Combining over 20 years of real estate experience, Sue Tretter and Judy Glenn of the TretterGlenn HomeSue MatchTeam, Tretter are consistent multi-million dollar production leaders, in the top 4% of all BNAR agents. They credit their success to market KNOWLEDGE, continued EDUCATION, exceptional SERVICE, and devoted CLIENTS. “We LISTEN and CARE about your needs and desires!” Sue and Judy know the local Judy market and are Glenn COMMITTED to helping their buyers and sellers fulfill their real estate DREAMS! “We pride ourselves on superior service, practical solutions, and client satisfaction!” Whether you are just starting your home search or thinking about selling your home, 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.

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 financial industry and held positions in mortgage lending, marketing, and was also the comptroller of a financial 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 led of team of resources, successfully negotiating a $100 Million Dollar Contract. 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, afleer@cbhoa.com, or via her website at www.annefleer.com.

Sheryl Scott 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 for the past 18 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 difficult 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 first 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.SherylScottHomes.com or 309-825-1096 1060921

TretterGlenn Home Match Team

AL has earned the title of #1 RE/MAX Sales Agent in All of 2011, 2010 & 2008 in Illinois/MO Region. He also acquired the title of 2011 RE/ MAX Choice “Sales Associate of the Year” and achieved this title since 2002, 10 solid years demonstrating his Enthusiasm to be a true Top Professional. He received the Certified 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. 1060929

Deb Connor & Jim Schilkoski Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors

#1 Agent in 2011 #1 Company in McLean County Deb Connor and Jim Schilkoski Get results! Call 309-531-1912 Deb and Jim have been providing real estate services to their community for over 30 years. They are well established in the community and have many satisfied clients and an extensive network of professional and local clients. Deb and Jim are full service agents. They are associated with many relocation companies and universities. Deb and Jim advertise your property on several websites, www.cbhoa.com, and www. bnrealtors.com. Email: at dconnor@cbhoa..com CALL DEB TODAY!! 1061813

The Lane Realtor Team offers the advantage of knowledge and experience while keeping pace with current technology. Joe has 14 years of experience in the Real Estate profession combined with 20 years of banking experience in the Joe Lane Bloomington/ Normal Area. He takes pride in providing professional, extraordinary customer service. Joey has 10 years experience in the computer retail and repair business and has been selling Real Estate since 2009. Joey Lane Check our our website at www. thelanerealtors.com and let us help you find your dream home! 1061311

Dan Slagell Re/Max Choice As a Broker-manager for Re/Max Choice, Dan has over 20 years of finance 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 over the years. Dan is a Certified Agent for Real Estate Investors and a CDPE/Certified 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 1060923

Larry & Candy Foster Century 21 Aper Realty About Us... I started my construction business in 1973 and received my real estate license in 1974. Since then, I have built, owned, single, multifamily, retail office, churches, warehouse, Larry Foster agricultural and development properties. Candy is a licensed realtor and assisting construction and real estate management and accounting since 1981. We feel with our vast knowledge and experience that we wil be an asset Candy Foster to buyers, sellers and investors. Call Larry at 309-824-2700 or Candy at 309-838-1032 1060927

Mary Love Prudential Snyder Real Estate Mary has consistently achieved recognition as a multi-million dollar producer every year since she began her career in Real Estate in 2002! Mary diligently looks for ways to better serve her clients and the referrals they continue to give her. She believes success is doing ordinary things extraordinarily well! Buying or selling this year? Mary would LOVE to help you! (309) 287-0266 MaryLoveRealtor@yahoo.com 1062370

Among top 10 Coldwell Banker Agents in the state of Illinois I ranked #6. I have the privilege of loving my job and dedicating all my resources to provide the best Customer Service to my Clients with professionalism and knowledge of the market. I have Multi-cultural Background, and know several languages such as Italian, Persian, understand Spanish and Russian. Graduated from ISU in Business Information Systems and have kept investing in education and technology to help me accomplish my Clients’ objectives in buying or selling their houses for the best possible value and in a timely manner. See for yourselves and let me assist you through the whole process to make your move to be a smooth and a pleasant one working hard but smart for you! Please call, text or email me at any time for all your Real Estate needs! Mobile:309-826-5559 Office: 309-664-3615 www.lilianacbhoa.com Email: ltaimoorazi@cbhoa.com

Meet the Haas Sisters: Tracy Haas Riley and Kristen Haas Oliver of Prudential 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. They have been loving working together over the past several years and are looking forward to always achieving an even higher level of service for their clients. Together, they want to be your Realtors! 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

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Karen Stailey-Lander

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Sue Strang

Prudential Snyder Real Estate

Karen Stailey-Lander has been a REALTOR® since 1986. Her success can be attributed to her great clients and her continued commitment to them. She is a Broker, Property Manager, Instructor and Past President of the Association of Realtors. She has earned several designations including the Graduate of the Realtors Institute (GRI), Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Certified Career Development Specialist (CCDS) and Accredited Staging Professional (ASP). Lander is a past recipient of the coveted Jack O. Snyder Award, a Presidential Award and a Distinguished Service Award. She has also been named REALTOR® Associate of the Year and REALTOR® of the Year. Karen enjoys the challenge of Real Estate and the rewards of working with people to satisfy their Real Estate needs. Visit her at Lander1.com or call/text at (309) 275-5420 to find out why she is...”SOLD” on Bloomington-Normal.

Crowne Realty CRP-- Certified Relocation Professional, CRS--Certified Residential Specialist, GRI-- Graduate Realtors Institute, PMN-- Performance Management Network, SFR-Short Sales Foreclosure Resource. All advanced real estate education designations that Sue has earned which separate her from most other local REALTORS. 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. A veteran of 25 years working with buyers and sellers has resulted in consistant multi-million dollar production. Referrals from satisfied 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 experienced, honest service.

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Becky Gerig

Don & Lorna Ray

Re/Max Choice

Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors

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 25 years and as a Veteran Agent she has earned many accomplishments and awards over the years. In 2012 she was in the top 50 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: first 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!

Don and Lorna Ray, Realtor Associates of Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors, 802 S. Eldorado Rd., Bloomington, are committed to giving you the highest level of service whether you are selling your current property or buying a new home. They are both ready to go the second mile to assure that your home buying or selling experience is as smooth and pleasant as possible. As frequent corporate movers themselves Don and Lorna understand the needs and emotions involved in a move and will be with you through each step, taking care of the many details involved and guiding you towards a successful conclusion of your transaction. Give them a call today at: 309-532-1624 – Don Mobile 309-830-0163 – Lorna Mobile 309-664-3601 – Office rayteam.net or cbhoa.com 1062237

Janet Jurich Keller Williams Janet Jurich is a full time Broker and Realtor® specializing in the residential market in Bloomington/Normal and the surrounding areas.

1062364

Ann Rosenfeld

Janet’s designations include Graduate of Realtor Institute (GRI) and ePro.

Century 21 Aper Realty I have been committed to serving your real estate needs for nearly 40 years. I have developed 3 subdivisions and served as general contractor to new construction. A big thank you to all my loyal customers and of course I welcome new clients and customers. Phone anytime 309 825 6438

Match this with her marketing strategy for Janet Sellers and Jurich Buyer assistance and you’ll be glad you chose Janet Jurich to assist you with your real estate needs.

1061814

Dan Kniery

Call her today at (309) 825-2078 and Make Your Move With Janet Jurich. www.JanetJurich.com Selling real estate is what I do…..Caring for my customers is how I do it. 1062347 1061718

1062347

ANNUAL REPORT 2 • Tuesday, March 13, 2012 • 5

www.pantagraph.com

Unit 5, District 87 moves spell success By Phyllis Coulter pcoulter@pantagraph.com

NORMAL — An emphasis on improving literacy for all students in McLean County Unit 5 schools is paying off, according to Superintendent Gary Niehaus. That was clear in February when nine of 18 schools in the region recognized by the state as Honor Roll Schools for their achievement were Unit 5 schools. Six of the nine were Title I schools. “There was a lot investment in students that need the resources the most,” he said. Much of the work was done by five literacy coaches who worked individually with students as well as training teachers in the Bloomington, Normal, Carlock, Towanda and Hudson schools how to help their students. For Oakdale Elementary School in Normal, among the Honor Roll schools, the writing is literally on the wall. The progress of students is tracked on a data wall – where cards are actually moved along the wall as students move from struggling, to meeting and eventually exceeding targets, said Principal Darrin Cooper. The achievements are also tracked electronically. Meanwhile, Unit 5 and

Glenn Elementary fourth-grade teacher Denise Holmes works with student Amerrah Chapman. nearby District 87 have worked together to close the achievement gap among minorities and low income students and other students. Part of their success in that area came from the development of the Illini Data system which helps provide information about individual students in a central spot so teachers can use it to monitor and assist each student’s progress. Now, as a result of that effort, the two districts have been tapped by the state to be leaders in the next step of building a statewide “shared learning infrastructure” to manage data.

The Pantagraph/STEVE SMEDLEY

District 87 Director of Technology Jim Peterson and District 87 Superintendent Barry Reilly, right, talk about the "IlliniCloud”in the basement of Bloomington High School. The districts will be part of the Illinois Shared Learning Environment, a platform to provide new ways to use data to teach individual students, deliver digital resources and tools and improve student success. “I see a world of potential in that. It’s not far away,” said District 87 Su-

perintendent Barry Reilly. It will bring fundamental change in education at first in all schools in Illinois and eventually across the nation, he said. The new efforts will provide learning maps for individual kids, he said. There will be specific applications to help with individual needs.

District 87 is also leading the way in a related effort called the Illini Cloud, which can provide school districts with access to virtual services, online storage and highspeed network connectivity and other information technology services. It is already supplying its services to 200 school

districts, primarily for emergency backup, said Jim Peterson, the district’s technology director. Reilly is also excited about the new school improvement planning process starting at the high school this year and expanding across the district.

Who’s Who in Real Estate Nancy Brady

Kathy DiCiaula

Steve Stevens

Sandy Slingsby

Georgean Fish

Prudential Snyder Real Estate

Re/Max Choice

Prudential Snyder Real Estate

Re/Max Choice

Prudential Snyder Real Estate

Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors

With 26 years of experience in Bloomington/Normal, Ed Larsen is a dedicated, full-time professional in the real estate industry. As a consistent multi-million dollar producer, Ed has been presented with many awards including the most recent Leading Edge Society with Prudential. You can expect the highest level of professionalism, quality service, and personal attention that he has shown in the past. Earning your trust and loyalty is the foundation of his business. Ed’s expertise includes residential resales, new construction, relocation, investment properties, and commercial sales and leasing. Please give The Larsen Team a call and let their dedication and experience work for you. Ph. (309)275-3545. ed@edlarsensells.com www.edlarsensells.com 1062360

Belinda Trunell Re/Max Choice BELINDA TRUNELL is a multimillion dollar RE/MAX Agent that takes pleasure in assisting clients in making their dream come true. She strives to exceed customers’ expectations by providing outstanding, personable service. As a result, she is a RE/MAX 100% Club and Executive Club Leader; a Relocation/Sales/New Construction Leader; and Spirit Award Winner. Whether you’re buying or selling, please allow Belinda the opportunity to work with you. And by the way, she is never too busy for your referrals! Belinda can be reached at belindatrunell@remax.net or #309-287-6105. 1062358

Nancy Brady is a full-time REALTOR with 25 years of experience. A native of Bloomington-Normal, she has always been active in the community, especially with Easter Seals and St. Joseph Hospital. She has sold over $165,000,000 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 find 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 1060924

Cindy Eckols Prudential Snyder Real Estate At the heart of my success lies the great satisfaction I get from helping people. I always have my clients’ best interests at heart; I am honest and truthful and always try to stay in touch with them. Service is my top priority. In addition to being a Realtor with Prudential Snyder, I am a developer, having developed the rural subdivision named “Cloverhill.” I greatly enjoyed developing Cloverhill and certainly gained a great deal of knowledge and experience in that endeavor. Developing also has enhanced my knowledge and experience in working with new construction and builders. A personal note before I close - I am a farm girl from Armington, a small town near Bloomington/Normal. I like to think my local knowledge and my love of this community, McLean County and the surrounding counties in Central Illinois shows in my energetic approach to my profession. My husband, Tom, grew up in Bloomington and is an attorney at State Farm. We have two daughters, Molly and Cally. I’m excited because Cally has joined my team! My family supports me tremendously. I’m very fortunate. Contact Cindy today at 309-532-1616, or by email cindy@cindyeckols.com 1062371

Kathy has been a resident of McLean County since attending ISU with her husband Guy, Project Manager for Kaisner Homes. She taught school in Heyworth and is active in her church, neighborhood, and ISU athletics. Kathy enjoys working with both buyers and sellers as a Broker/ Realtor. She knows how to work through the details and is committed to the best Interests of her clients. Just call Kathy D. at Ph. 309-824-4242. kathyd@prusny.com www.KathyDiCiaula.prusny.com 1061719

Dotty Mitchell Prudential Snyder Real Estate

Steve Stevens has been a full time REALTOR® for ten years and is currently a broker with RE/MAX Choice. Steve currently holds the following designations: ABR® (Accredited Buyers Representative) and GRI® (Graduate of REALTOR® Institute). Steve has lived in Bloomington/Normal most of his life and he knows the area well. He strives to assist his clients through the complete process of either buying or selling real estate. If you’re looking for a broker who will put your needs above his, give Steve a call or text today at (309) 261-3355 or email him at stevestevens@remax.net. Visit his web site at www.DiscoverBloomingtonHomes.com

Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors

Keith Troutman

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 first. 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 keith@keithtroutman.com You can also visit Keith at his new website keithtroutman.com 1062369

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. 1061313

Mike & Jean Hutson

Lisa Lyle

Dotty Mitchell – Your home town expert! As a lifelong resident of McLean County, she has a wealth of personal contacts and a I have been a Realtor for 5 years vast knowledge and have continued to grow of the area. Her my business background 101062413-01 each year. In of teaching in 2011 I was Unit 5 and and awarded the serving as an Coldwell Banker administrator in International District 87 are Sterling Society valuable assests. Since becoming Award. My a full time agent in 1994 she has top priority consistently been a top producer. is to provide She encourages you to make her dedicated, personal service website your one stop spot to get to my clients, both buyers and all your Real Estate information. She prides herself on respondsellers, putting their needs first! ing quickly and personally when I was a relocation client several clients have questions. She is times prior to moving to Blm/NL always ready to go to work for 15 yrs ago, and understand the you. Visit her website at challenges and stress of moving. 1062368 dottymitch.com. I have been married for 19 yrs, have 3 children and am very active in the community. Call 309-826-1419

Prudential Snyder Real Estate

1062361

Ed Larsen

Prudential Snyder Real Estate 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. THE DREAM OF HOME OWNERSHIP IS ALIVE AND WELL! Looking for a New Address... we can help. TheHutsonTeam.com hutsonrealestate@gmail.com 825-6894

1061312

Lynn Lister

Prudential Snyder Real Estate

Coldwell Banker Heart of America Realtors

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Valerie Curry Valerie has been a life long resident of Bloomington Normal. She and her husband have 3 grown children and 3 grand children.Valerie was recently awarded New Realtor Of The Year For 2011 from Prudential Snyder. Valerie enjoys working with ST JUDE RIDES. Valerie prides herself in making your home buying and selling experience the best in everyway possible.Next time your thinking of buying or selling call Valerie. Ph 309-319-0565 Email vrcurry@aol.com Website Valeriecurry.prusny.com

I’m Always Available (309) 825-7355 A 30 year resident of BloomingtonNormal and a consistent million dollar producer Georgean is an experienced professional full time Broker. Illinois State University graduate. She is also an accredited buyer representative,(ABR) Graduate of Realtors Institute of Illinois (GRI) a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) Certified Relocation Professional (CRP) and most recently Council of Real Estate Brokerage Managers (CRB)

LIST WITH LISTER Lynn Lister has been a resident of BloomingtonNormal 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 Sterling Society, Marketing Specialist, Relocation Specialist, GRI. Call 309-287-6610 llister@cbhoa.com Call today!

Pantagraph.com

1061717 1062413

6 • ANNUAL REPORT 2 • Tuesday, March 13, 2012

www.pantagraph.com

Streator officials seeing gains on economic front By Greg Stanmar gregstanmar@comcast.net

STREATOR — Last year brought some disappointing news from one anticipated revenue and job source for the community but that was offset by a rise in consumer health and the overall job market, said City Manager Paul Nicholson. The bad news, Nicholson said, was that plans for 165 wind towers to be built at Deer Run outside the city have been put on hold because the demand for renewable energy in a depressed economy did not warrant work to begin in the near future. The upfront fees and $1,000-$1,500 in per-tower revenue that would have

gone to the city were also put on hold. But the 150tower Cayuga Ridge project, however, is now in operation, with similar benefits to city coffers. Vactor Manufacturing, which produces municipal sewer vacuums and other equipment, has now become the city’s largest employer with more than 420 jobs after adding a third shift of 60 workers. It overtook St. Mary’s Hospital, which this year had to lay off 85 workers, said Jack Dzuris, head of the Streator Chamber of Commerce and Industry.The much anticipated opening of Wal-Mart, the city’s first big box store, added 100 jobs when it opened this year on Oakley Avenue.

Satellite stores are being planned there that would add even more jobs, Nicholson said. “In a word, (it’s) positive,” Nicholson said.“We’ve seen a significant change in terms of economic growth.” About 600 jobs were added last year in the city, “something I would love to see every year, but I’m dreaming,” added Dzuris. Meanwhile, the $14 million Kent Street sewer project was completed last year on the north side of town, separating storm and sewer water for nearly 40 percent of the city. The Coal Run project planned for 2017 on the south side will complete the state-mandated sewer upgrades at about the same price as the Kent Street

For The Pantagraph/GREG STANMAR

Karen Giguere strolls through the toy department with her children, Elija, 2, and Hannah, 1, in front at the new Wal-Mart in Streator. project. Streator, once rich in available skilled labor due to factory closings, now finds itself having to keep area young people in town. “We’re hearing of a potential labor shortage in the

next three years,” Nicholson said. To that end, high school Superintendent Kevin Myers and his staff, along with Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby, are working with city officials

to offer job training, internships and university grants that will keep people in Streator instead of heading to other job markets. “We’ve in effect doubled the program” to 65 students, said Myers.

Robbery, referendums talk of DeWitt County in 2011 For The Pantagraph

CLINTON — DeWitt County Sheriff Jered Shofner was a little surprised to see a jewelry heist occur last year near Wapella. But he can’t say he was shocked. “Crimes like that can happen anywhere. Criminals are transient, and you can get just about any kind of problem anywhere now,” said Shofner. Two arrests have been made in the case, which on April 6 saw four masked gunmen rob a jewelry merchant of an estimated $750,000 worth of jewelry and diamonds in the parking lot of a Casey’s General Store. A majority of the stolen items were recovered. Vanessa Ortiz, 29, of Chicago, was arrested the night of the incident and charged with armed robbery and obstruction of justice. A 38-year old Chicago-area man, Alexander Munos, was arrested recently on charges of armed robbery and armed robbery with a firearm. Shofner expects additional arrests in the case.

Referendums

service at the end of 2012, the DeWitt County Board opted for a ballot question in an attempt to fund a replacement. If approved, the measure could levy up to 25 cents per $100 assessed valuation. Residents in the Farmer City-based Blue Ridge School District will also be asked about the possible issuance of $6.5 million in bonds to help fund an addition to the junior high school in Mansfield. The addition would replace the current fourth-throughsixth grade Mansfield Elementary School, a 1956 structure that district officials want to replace. Blue Ridge voters, though, signed petitions to put the issue on the ballot.

clude a planned $2.75 million upgrade of the municipally owned electric utility. In Clinton, Carolyn Peters defeated three challengers and become the first female mayor of the county seat. Wapella also elected a new mayor, with Mark Miller edging out Richard Karr by a single vote.

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YOU HAVE TO LOOK AT THESE GREAT APARTMENTS

County residents should know soon whether the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will allow chemical wastes to be stored at the Clinton Landfill. EPA officials held a hearing on the issue last June. Peoria Disposal wants to dispose of some industrial wastes at the landfill, but critics are concerned about possible impacts to the Mahomet Aquifer, which supplies water for Central Illinois communities.

Take a look at Danbury Court and Fox Hill Apartments! They have a P.A.W.’s program where Pets Are Welcome! We can live in a 1, 2, or 3 bedroom apartment where I’ll have lots of space and you’ll have lots of conveniences. After 101058723-01 all, our HOME is more than just a floorplan. We want unmatched customer service and incredible VALUE. Fox Hill and Danbury Court provide both…and more! I want us to experience the good life at either of Bloomington’s finest communities!

A pair of DeWitt Coun- New faces ty’s major issues of 2011 will spill into 2012 in the form of referenda on the March 20 ballot. With an announcement in November that Dr. John Warner Hospital would cease to provide ambulance

The Pantagraph/DAVID PROEBER

Farmer City hired its second city manager in as many years, as longtime police chief Larry Woliung was appointed on an interim basis in May, and given a one-year contract in August. His initial projects in-

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By Steve Hoffman

A McLean County sheriff's deputy and Normal police officer patrol Wapella on April 7 as they assisted in the search for suspects involved in an armed robbery.

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ANNUAL REPORT 2 • Tuesday, March 13, 2012 • 7

www.pantagraph.com

Elizabeth A. Robb

Courts offering new ways to resolve cases n 1984 the McLean County Circuit Court became one of the first courts in Illinois to require mediation for child custody and visitation disputes. Later, the Supreme Court promulgated rules mandating mediation in family cases in all counties in the state. Elizabeth McLean Robb County has expanded its alternative dispute resolution options to include mandatory arbitration in civil cases between $5,000 and $50,000; mediation of law cases $50,000 and over; and a very successful voluntary small claims mediation program for pro se (when parties are not represented by an attorney) cases under $5,000. Beginning this month, all newly filed complaints for residential mortgage foreclosure in McLean County shall be eligible for mediation. Foreclosure mediation is a process where a neutral mediator communicates with borrowers and lenders to try to assist them to reach a voluntary and mutual agreement to resolve a loan delinquency. In the event loan terms cannot be renegotiated, the mediator will explore with borrowers how to give up their property in exchange for a lender releasing an individual from any further liability. A unique component of this program is a cooperative arrangement with the University of Illinois College Of Law Community Preservation Clinic. Under the supervision of attorney Stacey L. Tutt, assistant clinical professor at the UI College of Law, law students will provide pro bono legal assistance to defendants at a pre-mediation conference, where the homeowner will explore various options available to allow the homeowner to preserve ownership of the home. The law students will also attend the mediation conference with the defendant borrower. Mid-Central Community Action, a HUD-certified counseling agency, will also participate in the pre-mediation conference by reviewing borrower documentation to determine workout op-

tions and to help assess a borrower’s budget and develop a financial plan. The agency will also review borrower eligibility for Illinois’ Hardest Hit Funds, which provides both reinstatement and monthly mortgage payment assistance. The foreclosure mediation program is designed to reduce the burden of expenses sustained by lenders, borrowers and taxpayers as a result of residential mortgage foreclosures. It is also designed to aid the administration of justice by reducing the number of court cases. Further, the program is aimed at keeping families in homes, if possible, and to prevent vacant and abandoned homes from decreasing neighboring owners’ home values, decrease tax revenues, increase the demand for social services, and increase costs borne by financial institutions. Mediators will include active and retired attorneys, and retired financial and lending professionals. We reviewed other programs, solicited input from lenders’ attorneys and reviewed national research on mediation programs before crafting the design of our program. Providing pro bono legal assistance at the pre-mediation conferences will greatly enhance the chances of reaching an agreement satisfactory to all parties, according to the national research on foreclosure mediation programs. In McLean County, we have forged cooperative arrangements with faculty from both Illinois State University’s School of Social Work and the UI College of Law to provide training in mediation skills to their students. The court also relies on a dedicated core of volunteer small claims mediators; highly trained attorneys and social work professionals who mediate child custody and visitation and family financial disputes, and experienced attorneys and retired judges who serve as arbitrators in civil litigation. Providing alternative dispute resolution options helps to reduce costs to the citizens and the legal system of McLean County, and allows those whose liberty interests are at risk greater access to the courts. Robb is chief judge of the 11th judicial circuit.

The Pantagraph/STEVE SMEDLEY

Mitsubishi Motors North America Chief Operating Officer Jerry Berwanger examines the computer on the body of an Outlander Sport during a tour of the plant on Jan. 5.

Workers get plant ready for new Mitsubishi model By Karina Gonzalez kgonzalez@pantagraph.com

NORMAL — Employees at Normal’s Mitsubishi Motors North America plant are gearing up to soon begin production of the company’s top-selling vehicle — the Outlander Sport. A $100 million renovation project continues to ready the plant for production of the crossover SUV beginning this summer. Employees have traveled to Japan for training. Old equipment here has been pulled out and restored or steel scrapped to get ready for the conversion into the new car. The plant already has built 22 Outlander Sport models so far for test purposes. Of those built, 18 have been shipped to Japan for crash testing and other durability testing. Another four test models will endure quality checks here, said plant spokesman Dan Irvin. Irvin said the new project “breathed life” back into the plant, which neared closure a few years ago as it struggled with record-low sales and a drop in production figures. But now the plant is rebounding and the mood at the Normal plant is optimistic, Irvin said. “It seems like in general everybody is delighted to be working on a new product, determined and committed to taking advantage of this opportunity to prove how good we are,” said Irvin. “New products are the life blood of an auto

The Pantagraph/LORI ANN COOK-NEISLER

Cameramen react to the first take with Amreen Khan in the car and Brooke Irwin at the drive-through at Carl's Ice Cream in Normal during the filming of a commercial for Mitsubishi on Sept. 13.

manufacturing plant.” The plant has now discontinued the production of three of its models including the Eclipse, the Spyder and the Endeavor

SUV. Production of the Galant continues for the time being. That’s not the only good news for Mitsubishi. Its newest electric car, the “i,”

surged to a top ranking in the Environmental Protection Agency’s fuel economy guide for 2012. The four-seat vehicle with a combined city and highway mpg equivalent of 112, scored the top ranking for fuel economy in its category. Irvin said the Bloomington-Normal area was chosen as a location to test the vehicle and a nationally aired commercial was filmed in Normal in September. Residents will be able to purchase the vehicle through local dealers this month, Irvin said. The vehicle, which is produced in Japan, already is available for purchase in Hawaii. Mitsubishi has no plans to begin production of the electric vehicle at the Normal plant, Irvin said.

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8 • Annual Report 2 • Tuesday, March 13, 2012

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ndustry-first customerfocused technology, uncompromised craftsmanship, top safety ratings and best-in-class horsepower and excellent fuel economy make the 2012 Lincoln MKX a standout among premium midsize utilities. “The 2012 MKX delivers on Lincoln’s commitment of world-class luxury, performance and purposeful technology wrapped in a distinctive design,” said Kate Pearce, Lincoln MKX marketing manager. “Lincoln MKX offers performance and technology other premium competitors can’t match or don’t offer.” Lincoln MKX offers an array of standard features that are often optional among luxury competitors, including heated and cooled seats, Lincoln SYNC, MyKey, and Intelligent Access with push-button start and Remote Start System. Recently, Lincoln received the highest score for long-term durability among all vehicle brands in the annual J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Vehicle Dependability Study and also was recognized as the leading luxury brand in vehicle satisfaction by AutoPacific. Lincoln MKX is also fuel efficient and delivers 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, best among non-diesel competitors.

The 2012 Lincoln MKX offers industry-first technologies, strong safety ratings and excellent, luxurious refinement. MKX feature, and the model earned a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for models built after February 2011, the fifth straight year the utility has earned this honor. To earn this ranking, a vehicle must offer electronic stability control as well as achieve a rating of “good” in offset frontal-, side and rear-impact crash tests and roof strength evaluations. In addition to standard electronic stability control, the Lincoln MKX premium

SAFETY Safety is a key Lincoln

utility features a solid unibody construction, which provides an energy-absorbing structure to help protect occupants. Bumper-tobumper flow-through side rails, structural design and A-pillars are meant to better manage crash energy. Nearly half of the stiff shell is composed of highstrength steels, such as boron, for both increased strength and reduced weight. When a crash becomes unavoidable, MKX relies on an array of airbags and

2012 LINCOLN MKX

other technologies to help protect occupants. Two front second-generation airbags and two side airbags are joined by a Safety Canopy consisting of sidecurtain airbags for two rows of passengers. The first-row safety belts feature pretensioners and an energy management system with adjustable D-ring height in the first row.

TECHNOLOGY MKX was also the launch vehicle for

Lincoln’s industry-first SYNC with MyLincoln Touch driver connect technology. This technology provides an intuitive, easy-to-use system for accessing a multifunction color display and infotainment color display. This technology puts customers in control of what they want when they want it – through voice, touch or a mix of both. Settings and controls can be personalized to the customer’s interests and level of engagement

desired. Standard with MyLincoln Touch are two 4.2-inch color LCD screens in the cluster controlled by two five-way switches on the steering wheel and an 8-inch color LCD touch screen in the center stack. Lincoln MKX offers best-in-class standard horsepower (305) and torque (280 lb.-ft.) through a 3.7-liter V6 engine featuring twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) to increase power and fuel economy.

#2L-CBL12053

Champagne Crystal, Stone leather, remote start, heated/cooled seats. 5 Lincoln MKXs in stock.

MSRP M SRP $40,995 $40,,995 Dealer Discount -2033 Factory Rebate -1000 Lincoln Trade Assistance -1000

36,962*

#1L-BG615246 #2L-BBJ26810

2011 LINCOLN MKS

2012 20 012 2 LINCOLN LIN NCOLLN MKZ Z

2011 0 LINCOLN NCO N MKX

3.7L V6 engine, 19” wheels, climate control, heated/cooled seats

Remote start, heated/cooled seats, climate control. MKZs stock. 3 Lincoln MK KZs iin n st stoc o k. M oc MSRP SRP $35,865 $35,865

All wheel drive, remote start, heated/cooled seats.

MSRP M SRP $ $42,885 42,885 Dealer Discount -2423 Factory Rebate -2500 Factory Rebate -500 Lincoln Automotive Financial Services Rebate -500

36,962*

Dealer Discount -1903 Factory Rebate -1500 Lincoln Automotive Financial Services Rebate -500 Lincoln Trade Assistance -1000

30,962*

MSRP M SRP $ $42,115 42,115 Dealer Discount -2153 Factory Rebate -1500 Factory Rebate -500 Lincoln Trade Assistance -1000 $

36,962*

866.644.2509 • I-55 & ROUTE 116 • PONTIAC Hours: M-Th 8-8; Fri. 8-5:30; Sat. 8-4 www.HellerStores.com *All factory and Lincoln Automotive Financial Services rebates applied. Plus tax, title and license.

1061929

#3L-CR810411