Limited: January Edition

Limited

Bloomington-Normal’s Premier Lifestyle and Business Magazine - January 2021

happy new year

inside

SAINTS ALIVE | IT’S A FAMILY AFFAIR | COVERAGE OF 6 EVENTS

Index

Staff and Contributors Jonell Kehias Editor

Business

Lifestyle

Gingerbread House Wink the dog.................................... 3

Saints Alive ..............................16, 17

Victoria Weinberg

Business Barometer....................... 4

Creative director

By the Numbers ............................. 5

Deanna Frautschi Writer, photographer, naturalist Michael Escoubas Poet Carlos T. Miranda Photographer David Proeber Photographer

Mid-Illinois REALTORS Association ...................................... 7 Jack Lewis Business Before Hours ..........................10, 11

Festival of Trees .....................18, 19 Family Affair ............................20, 21 Poem: Walking Home from School in Winter ...........................22 Arrived Men’s Salon ....................23 Eagle Watching ............................25

The Reason for the Season............. .....................................................12, 13

Downtown Bloomington First Friday ...............................26, 27

Ugly Sweater Run .................14, 15

Be Great Breakfast .......................28 Parting Shot ...................................31

Limited 205 N. Main St., Bloomington, IL 61701 309-829-9000

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Editor — Jonell Kehias jkehias@pantagraph.com | 309-820-3350 Central Illinois General Manager — Barry Winterland bwinterland@pantagraph.com | 309-820-3205

Limited Magazine | January 2021

Limited Magazine welcomes your submissions of photographs and feature ideas. Organizations must notify us of upcoming events at least six weeks in advance. All submissions will be considered for publication. We reserve the right to edit submitted material. Views expressed are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect our publishing policies. No part of the magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying for any purpose without the express written consent of Limited Magazine, 205 N. Main St., Bloomington, IL

Reprinted from Dec. 4 Pantagraph Story by Lenore Sobota Photos by Jim Finch‌ BLOOMINGTON — Wink the “shop dog” at The Gingerbread House Toy Store is more than a greeter. The friendly sheep dog is the inspiration for a stuffed animal that will raise money this year for Marcfirst.

In the past, The Gingerbread House, 921 E. Washington St., has had a “12 Days of Giving” program during which 10% of sale proceeds each day for 12 days in November were donated to a different nonprofit organization.

“But that was spread a little thin … and not making that big of an impact,” said store owner Kate Greene.

Looking for a better idea with a bigger impact, Greene thought of the store’s “wish list,” where children say what they would like to have.

So many children had said they would like a dog like Wink, Greene decided to help make those wishes come true by having a “stuffy” made that looks like Wink and the Wink Alliance was formed.

The Gingerbread House, anonymous donors and the Shirk Foundation paid for making 500 of the limited edition dogs.

They will be sold for $25 with all proceeds going Marcfirst, a McLean County nonprofit that serves people with developmental disabilities.

More than 200 stuffed dogs were presold before they arrived in the store this week. If all are sold, that will amount to $12,500 for Marcfirst.

Christy Kosharek, vice president of pediatric therapy at Marcfirst, said the money is “really going to help us get through these difficult times.”

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in increased expenses for personal protective equipment and extra cleaning procedures, she noted.

“We recently moved into a new (pedi-

Kate Greene, owner of The Gingerbread House toy store, introduces the stuffed animal Wink to the real Wink. All proceeds from the sale of the stuffed “Winks” will go to help MarcFirst.

“I feel so honored and blessed that Kate chose us. We’re really excited and they’re so cute” atric therapy) facility and there’s always extra costs with that,” she said.

“I felt so honored and blessed that Kate and the rest of her team chose us,” said Kosharek.

“It’s been a ton of fun,” Greene said of the project. “We’re really excited and they’re so cute — beyond what we even imagined.”

This year’s Wink wears a shirt with the Marcfirst logo on front and the Wink Alliance on the back. The gray and white dog is 8 inches tall and very soft. Greene called

it “the perfect stocking stuffer.” A brochure with information about Marcfirst will be included with each dog.

Also available for purchase are keychains that can double as collar tags. The keychains are two for $5 and have the logos of The Gingerbread house and Marcfirst.

Greene said they picked Marcfirst as this year’s beneficiary because “we’ve always partnered with them. It’s an appreciation of what they do for the community.”

She said Marcfirst has helped educate her and her staff and helped them select toys.

Each year a different local non-profit organization will be selected and a different Wink will be offered.

“We joked that Wink likes to lay down a lot so maybe next year’s will be laying down,” she said.

Her hope is that Wink “could become a symbol of helping kids in our community.”

January 2021 | Limited Magazine 3

Gingerbread House

becomes symbol for helping children

Gingerbread House

Business Barometer

‌

Ferrero to expand candy plant‌

Heartland plans ag complex

Construction underway for brewery‌

State gives Connect Transit $9.92M‌

BLOOMINGTON — Confectionery giant Ferrero plans to spend $75 million to add 70,000 square feet to its existing 226,000-square-foot facility at 2501 Beich Road, where Crunch and SnoCaps are assembled, and create the Italian company’s first chocolate factory in North America.

NORMAL — A “long winter of construction” is ahead for Fiala Brothers Brewery and Beer Hall in uptown Normal, but the business that owners Ryan and Steve Fiala envision as a community gathering place is expected to be complete by late spring.

‌

Rivian to deliver 1st vehicles in June

NORMAL — Rivian, which has been building out its factory in Normal with plans to build pickup truck and SUV models, began taking orders on its inaugural models in November and plans to start deliveries of a $75,000 special Launch Edition truck in June.

‌

CIRA lauds Delta service

BLOOMINGTON — Traffic for Delta’s new nonstop flight service to Detroit from Central Illinois Regional Airport was doing well after four weeks of operation despite launching during a pandemic, airport officials reported Nov. 10, but overall CIRA traffic, while improving slightly, still was down 57% in October from the previous year.

s‌

NORMAL — A 48,000-square-foot agriculture complex on the Raab Road campus is likely to be the first major project to get attention from the updated Master Facilities Plan adopted by the Heartland Community College board in mid-November, but it depends on securing $22.4 million in requested state funding.

NORMAL — The Illinois Department of Transportation last month awarded $9.92 million in grant funding to Connect Transit as part of Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s Rebuild Illinois capital program, and the agency plans to expand and improve service in downtown Bloomington, purchase four 35-foot electric buses, and help complete an additional 90 new bus stops as part of the Better Bus Stops campaign.

ISU President Dietz to retire‌

NORMAL — Illinois State University President Larry Dietz on Nov. 20 announced plans to retire June 30, after nearly a decade at the university, the last 6½ as its leader., and a search for his successor was to begin immediately.

‌

Hospitals: COVID stressing capacity

BLOOMINGTON — Asking residents to stay home for the holidays to restrain the spread of COVID-19, BloomingtonNormal hospitals reported Nov. 24 that 91% of intensive care unit beds and 83% of total beds were in use. largely because of the surge in infections.

‌

Bars cited for COVID violation

Ameren halts service disconnections

‌

Old CIRA terminal demolished

BLOOMINGTON — Five Bloomington bars — Eastland Suites, Parkview Inn, Garden of Paradise, Western Avenue Tap and Cheeks Bar and Grill — were issued citations in late November for violating state orders meant to prevent the further spread of COVID-19, and 12 businesses were warned previously.

Cannabis retail prospers in pandemic

NORMAL — Amid a global pandemic and ensuing economic slowdown, cannabis businesses like Beyond/Hello, Bloomington-Normal’s first recreational-use cannabis business, remain a rare bright spot in the Illinois economy, raking in millions of dollars and tax revenue, according to Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation data.

Art Station site plat OK’d‌

NORMAL — The Normal Town Council on Nov. 16 approved the final plat for the home of Illinois Art Station, a nonprofit art education organization that purchased properties at 101 E. Vernon Ave. and 605 and 607 S. Linden St. in June for its new location.

4

Limited Magazine | January 2021

BLOOMINGTON — Ameren Illinois announced Nov. 18 it is implementing the winter service shut-off moratorium early because of current and forecast low temperatures and the recent increase in coronavirus cases.

‌

BLOOMINGTON — Stark Excavating in late November demolished the basement of the former terminal building at Central Illinois Regional Airport, which plans to return the lot in the 2900 block of East Empire Street to grass until another project emerges.

Construction starts on YMCA building‌

BLOOMINGTON — Workers for Stark Excavating in late November began constructing the foundation walls for the 76,000-square-foot, $23 million building to house the Bloomington-Normal YMCA and Easterseals of Central Illinois at Washington Street and St. Joseph Drive, Bloomington.

Congratulations

TEAM WYCOFF REALTORS ® #1 IN TOTAL SALES IN THE ENTIRE UNITED STATES FOR BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOME SERVICES FRANCHISE NETWORK 2ND AND 3RD QUARTER 2020 TEAMS WITH 5 AGENTS OR LESS DURING THE HEIGHT OF THE PANDEMIC, TEAM WYCOFF REALTORS® ASSISTED NEARLY 200 CLIENTS IN BUYING OR SELLING HOMES IN THE PAST 6 MONTHS

Blake Heffernan, Julie Duncan, Amanda Wycoff, Brandon Shaffer, Erica Epperson

,

A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC

By the numbers

2020 YTD* Single Family Home Sales Stats Through October 2020

NEW CONSTRUCTION

RESALE

2020 YTD TOTALS

2020 YTD Totals

2020 YTD Totals

2020 YTD Totals

Units: 51

Units: 2,639

Units: 2,690

$Volume: $14,631,748

$Volume: $458,775,050

$Volume: $473,406,798

Average Price: $286,897

Average Price: $173,844

Average Price: $175,988

2019 YTD Comparison

2019 YTD Comparison

2019 YTD Comparison

Units: 36

Units: 2,177

Units: 2,213

$Volume: $10,076,281

$Volume: $377,125,895

$Volume: $387,202,176

Average Price: $279,897

Average Price: $173,232

Average Price: $174,967

*

Compiled as of November 20, 2020 | Mid-Illinois REALTORS® Association

Commercial Real Estate Services GrEG YOuNT

Laura PrITTS

Retail • Office • Apartments Industrial • Land • Buildings Investment • Lease Space

MIKE FLYNN

THOM JONES

BOB SwOrdS

MIKE TaLKINGTON

MIcHaEL O’NEaL

MEGHaN O’NEaL-rOGOzINSKI

309-662-3377 • 304 N. Hershey, Bloomington, IL • www.cbcregroup.com Each Office Independently Owned & Operated.

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Limited Magazine | January 2021

Mid-Illinois R REALTORS EALTORS® Association

Why the name change from BloomingtonNormal Association of REALTORS® to Mid-Illinois REALTORS® Association (MIRA)?

Our partners in Livingston county merged with our association in July, 2020. This extends our reach well beyond Bloomington-Normal into surrounding areas encompassing McLean, DeWitt, Livingston Counties and surrounding townships. It made sense that our name be more inclusive of all the communities our members and affiliates work, live, play and serve in.

Our local REALTORS® are famous for giving back to the community. How did 2020 affect your charitable giving?

Our REALTOR® YPN (Young Professionals Network) initiated our “Feed the Frontline Heroes” program, which is focused on fueling the extraordinary efforts of our health and safety workers, while supporting our local restaurants and their employees.

In September we held our first blended live/virtual President’s Charity of Choice “telethon” to benefit Children’s Home and Aid and raised over $7,000. During October, MIRA and Town of Normal worked together with a grant from the National Association of REALTORS® in the enhancement of the Unity Community Center with a Unity Pollinator Garden. We donated a tree to The Baby Fold’s Festival of Trees, and in December we will continue to support the annual Red Cross Blood Drive by volunteering.

So be ld ne for fit $5 in 10 g , th all e p B ro ab c y ee Fo ds ld !

How was 2020 for local REALTORS® and what do you think 2021 will bring?

We were so fortunate that our 2020 State of Illinois REALTORS® leadership team, led by local managing broker and REALTOR® Ed Neaves, in combination with the executive staff of Illinois REALTORS® in Springfield, worked tirelessly with the governor’s office to ensure that our business would be protected as an essential service.

Average sales prices were up over 2019 and the National Association of REALTORS® notes that there has been an approximate 18% increase in homes sold.

We were fortunate to be part of that trend.

We see no indications of this slowing down in 2021. Buyers are still looking for homes and sellers are, in many instances, selling in record time with the partnership of their REALTOR®.

A moment with...

A T MOMEN H WIT

What is it like being president during a pandemic?

I think I can speak on behalf of our immediate Past-President Penny Wilson, our current Brandon Shaffer and previous executive PRESIDENT, MID-ILLINOIS committee, our board REALTORS® ASSOCIATION of directors and office staff when I say that never have we felt so in touch with our membership. Whether consulting on new safety aspects, working with our Education committee on creating new ways to continue industry education or simply adapting to new ways of interacting and communicating with our members, we are all hands on deck (virtually of course) to make sure our members have resources and more so they can provide their clients the best service possible.

For the first time in our association’s history our 2020-2021 Presidential Installation was a pre-recorded virtual event as was our President’s Charity of Choice fundraiser. Both were huge successes and virtual attendance was above and beyond our expectations.

NEW NAME, SAME COMMITMENT TO THE LOCAL COMMUNITIES WE SERVE!

January 2021 | Limited Magazine 7

Retail leasing: the tenant PeRsPeCtiVe

F

rom small Mom N’ Pop stores to giant national chains operating hundreds of stores, the great majority of retailers lease the space they occupy.

Retail activity is a very dynamic and somewhat fluid sector of the local economy. It follows growth and responds to changes in population, employment, income and traffic patterns.

At any given point, a variety of retailers are looking for new space.

These will include: • New business start-ups.

• Regional or national chains wanting to enter a market for the first time.

• Existing stores looking to expand, down-size, improve location, or get better economic terms if their current lease is ready to expire.

Regardless of the scope of the assignment, a lot of time, energy and potentially a lot of money can be saved if a professional realtor who specializes in commercial real estate is contacted before beginning the search. The first question is always: “What’s available?” A commercial broker can help cut through the maze of options by focusing on your specific needs and matching the appropriate properties in the market to satisfy your criteria.

Once satisfactory locations are identified, a commercial broker can also represent your interests in negotiating lease terms with the landlord prior to the preparation and execution of the lease agreement.

Take the approach that everything is negotiable.

Rent and Charges This is usually quoted as a dollar-per-square-foot of leasable

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space on an annual basis. Ask the following questions: • Does the quoted rate include charges for real estate taxes, insurance and Common Area Maintenance (gross rate) or are these items billed separately (net or triple net rate)?

• Are there rent escalations over the term of the lease?

• Is there a percentage rent override clause?

• How are utility payments handled?

• Are there additional charges for signage, trash removal, marketing, etc.?

Length of Term This is defined as when the lease begins and ends, and needs to be clearly identified in your agreement.

Ask the landlord: • Is there a period of time between the delivery of possession and the actual commencement of rent to allow for preparing the space for business, such as remodeling, setting or installing floor fixtures, inventory, POS systems, and training employees?

• Are there renewal options for extending the lease? Under what conditions? At what rental rates?

• Are there performance or kickout clauses for under-performing stores? Under what conditions can they be exercised?

Tenant Build-Out This also needs to be spelled out very specifically in your lease agreement. Be sure to address the following: • In what condition is the space being delivered?

• Does the space need to be remodeled, refreshed, or altered?

Limited Magazine | January 2021

Who is doing the work? When? At whose expense?

• Will the landlord provide allowances or consider doing a turn-key build out?

• What is included in the landlord’s “vanilla box finish”?

Other issues include: • Signs. What is landlord’s criteria?

How many are available? What size? Where? Who pays for them?

• Parking needs to be available and accessible to customers and employees.

• Landlord rules of operation. Are there restrictions or requirements that need to be met?

After basic economic terms are agreed to, a lease draft will be created. The lease is a legally binding agreement that will cover a myriad of issues and “what happens if...” scenarios. This draft should always be reviewed by an attorney prior to signing.

Executing a retail lease can be a “big deal” regardless of your size of operation. It is always wise to seek competent professionals to help protect your long-term interests.

Michael O’Neal, is a licensed broker at Coldwell Banker Commercial Real Estate Group in Bloomington.

For more information on commercial real estate, contact Mike at (309) 530-3591 or moneal@cbcregroup.com

Happy Holidays!

‘TIS THE SEASON TO BUY OR SELL A HOME! Contact one of these REALTORS© to make your dreams of a new home come true!

THE DILLMAN TEAM

309.531.1912 304 N. Hershey Rd. Bloomington, IL 61704 Each Office Individually Owned and Operated

Broker/Realtor For all of your Real Estate needs!

Your Real Estate Expert DEB CONNOR

Hansa Jaggi

Call, Text or Email!

Bruce Dillman, Broker: Andrea Dillman, Broker: 309-838-8390 or 309-846-1558 or brucedillman@hotmail.com Dillmanteam@kw.com

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

Each Office Independently Owned & Operated.

Greg Zavitz, Broker

309-ASK-GREG 275-4734

REALTOR®/Broker, GRI

greg@zavitz.com Search all local listings at:

www.zavitz.com Helping You Find Your Way Home!

Each Office Independently Owned & Operated.

Liliana Taimoorazi Broker, GRI, CRS, ABR

Award Winner for Excellency 309.826.5559

Each Office Independently Owned & Operated.

Mike Manahan

Broker, REALTOR® 309-275-0215 mikemanill@aol.com

Steve Sovereign GRI, CRS, and ABR Broker, Realtor

(309) 826-4646

www.lilianacoldwellhomes.com

ssovereign@coldwellhomes.com Each Office Independently Owned & Operated.

Each Office Independently Owned & Operated.

Each Office Independently Owned & Operated

January 2021 | Limited Magazine 9

Jack Lewis Business Before Hours

Wednesday, Nov.25 Jack Lewis Jewelers , Bloomington Photos by David Proeber If there’s one thing John Carter knows, it’s how to throw a party. And as owner of Jack Lewis Jewelers and past president of the American Gem Society board of directors, well, he also knows a little about gems and jewelry.

But on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, it is all about the party. And the pine cones. And this year did not disappoint. There were hundreds of boxes of wonderfully scented pine cones. There was delicious breakfast pizza from Joe’s Station House. There was hot coffee, There were $50 gift cards. And there was the chance to win a beautiful piece of jewelry.

So while Jack Lewis Jewelers store was not packed, there was a steady line of folks driving through to share some holiday cheer before Thanksgiving. And to grab their box of pine cones.

More photos at pantagraph.com/limited

John Carter, owner of Jack Lewis Jewelers; Charlie Moore, Chamber president and CEO

Brad Lange, Greg Meyer

Terry Ward hands a box of pine cones to Kathleen Lorenz

Missy Ranney, Scott Davis, Joshua Shull

Jack Lewis Staff: Tami Bonos, Holly Templin, Moriki Tomihara, Kia Griffin, Terry Ward

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Limited Magazine | January 2021

Megan Fitzgerald

Vivian Doctora

Sam Lewis

Jack Lewis Business Before Hours

Bill Croff

Distinguished Property Gallery 708 S. Mercer Ave., BL $639,900

10 Country Club Pl., BL $699,000 AMAZING home on Country Club Place. Updates galore...beautiful white kitchen, granite tops, tiled backsplash, hardwood floors, newer windows, fresh paint abundance of crown molding, built-ins Great home for entertaining.

The main floor features a living room, family room, office, dining room and a spacious four seasons room with gorgeous slate floor, wood beamed ceiling and a wet bar. Wonderful master suite with remodeled private bathroom.

Updated bathrooms and large Bedrooms, 2 air conditioners, furnace, circular driveway. Basement with Family Room and fireplace and recreation room.

Other features include 3 fireplaces, heated 3 car garage, natural slate roof.

Enjoy the gorgeous views of the golf course or relax on the rear patio! Must see this Impressive home!

Deb Connor (309) 531-1912

Dconnor@coldwellhomes.com

Work from home in Comfort & Luxury!

Stunning and Amazing All Brick house on a gorgeous large lot (85x310) in Bloomington. 6040 finished sq. ft. of high-end quality and top of the line amenities! High ceilings & open floor plan, Custom trim and built-ins throughout, Dramatic entry way, 18x21 with Curved wrought iron staircase with open balcony, Back wall in the kitchen and family room all glass with round top windows to enjoy the view of the huge backyard; Gourmet eat-in kitchen with 8x6 granite island, double ovens, Subzero refrigerator, and custom cabinetry and all SS appliances.

Gorgeous First floor Master Suite with 9x15 walk in closet with built-ins. Finished L.L with huge Family Room, bedroom, & a full bathroom and 16x21 room with double closets. Lighted curved driveway, Sprinkler system, and alarm system and more to see in person!

2088 Rodeo Rd., McLean $615,000

1917 Sinclair Ct., BL $424,900

Watch the deer and wildlife from this Gorgeous secluded 3/4 bedroom home on 49 beautiful acres of pasture and timber! Wrap around deck on 3 sides to huge deck overlooking pristine timber. Walk out basement, 2 story entrance with Hardwood floors from entry through living room and huge open kitchen with double sided fireplace. Large Island and pantry. 2 bedrooms on the main floor and whole 2nd floor is master suite, with huge walk in closet with built ins and tile bath with stand up double headed shower and Jetted tub.

Finished basement with family room w/ built ins, wired for surround sound, kitchenet with refrigerator, game room, craft or hobby room, bonus room with closet and huge storage room. Sliding door from family room to private patio. Home has whole house Generac generator. two huge outbuildings, first 90x50 building with 3 horse stalls, office, tack room and 1 bedroom apartment with full kitchen and Bath! Second building is 120x60 all open for riding arena or winter storage! Home with 9 acres of yard and pasture with 40 acres of Great hunting timber behind with beautiful kickapoo creek winding through! this is some of the best hunting timber around.

Beautiful 2 story home with walkout finished basement in Tipton Trails. 5 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths. Gorgeous eat-in kitchen with granite counter tops, eating bar, stainless appliances, range hood and gas stove.

Family Room w/mantel surround gas fireplace. Main floor laundry. Wood floors and crown molding on main level. Walkout lower level with Family Room, Wet bar, Bedroom and full bath. Enjoy the custom outdoor fireplace on the oversized patio or deck, fenced yard and abundance of landscaping for privacy.

Enjoy the neighborhood trails and lake. Close to Schools and Shopping!

Mark Haeffele 309-275-3039

haeffele@b-nrealestate.com

Liliana Taimoorazi

(309) 826-5559 ltaimoorazi@coldwellhomes.com

Deb Connor (309) 531-1912

Dconnor@coldwellhomes.com

January 2021 | Limited Magazine 11

Commerce Bank

reason

season FOR THE

HOW COMMERCE BANK MADE CANCELLING CLASSY

Of the many holiday parties and shindigs in Bloomington-Normal, one of the most-anticipated is hosted by Commerce Bank. Besides the fabulous food and drink, the party brings together a fun and eclectic crowd that genuinely enjoys each other’s company.

And while we all knew that this holiday season would be without the calendar-filling rounds of parties and get-togethers, when the invitation envelope arrived with the Commerce Bank return address,

2020 HOLIDAY PARTY

consideration, we have After careful thought and . ual holiday party this year ann our decided to cancel eve in gather in person, we beli While we are unable to remain committed and ity mun com our of the strength es. s that share our core valu to supporting organization we are proud to donate To celebrate the season, Club of BloomingtonGirls & s Boy the to $15,000 y. part ’s year this of lieu Normal in ing, wish you good and erst We thank you for your und ing together once brat to cele health and look forward gs. erin gath re futu at e mor

there was hope that maybe, somehow, there would be a party.

But it wasn’t to be. And the message on that simple 5” x 7” card wasn’t about taking away a great party. It was about giving. Giving back to our community in a most generous way.

As Leann Seal, vice president of sales and marketing for Tentac Enterprises and owner of Go Green Cleaning posted on her Facebook page, “Class Act Commerce Bank!”

We couldn’t agree more.

We reached to Commerce Bank to find out more about how they decided on this new direction.

“2020 has brought about unexpected changes and challenges for many. At Commerce, we believe our success is defined not

J and Crystal Phillips at the 2019 Commerce Bank Holiday Party.

only by our ability to help people meet their financial challenges, but also by the mark we leave on our customers and the communities we serve. For our 155-year history, we have been committed to making the communities where we live and

’s event Save the date for next year th 2021 , Thursday, December 9 Sincerely,

The Officers of Commerce

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Bank

Limited Magazine | January 2021

WF663736 Bloomington Holiday

non Party Invite.indd 1

10/1/2020 2:58:43 PM

Victoria Howard, Sara Larsen, Pat Hardesty, Carin Sassatelli, 2018

Commerce Bank

Jerry Ringer, Leanna Bordner, 2015

Al and Linda Bowman, Cheryl Chase Jones, 2017

work better places by supporting a wide range of charitable organizations.

When it became apparent that COVID-19 was going to have an enormous effect on many, our strategy was to act quickly, but thoughtfully, to make sure our efforts would be focused on where they mattered most. We are

Charlie Moore, Julie Dobski, Coleen Moore, 2015

honored to be able to support Boys and Girls Club of BloomingtonNormal with this charitable gift and we are grateful for this holiday party alternative to give back in a meaningful way.

Commerce supports a variety of community organizations throughout our footprint. As we all adjust to new routines and new

ways of doing business, Commerce will continue to be involved in our communities and make a difference where it matters most. We are here for our customers – in good times and challenging times – and this situation is no exception.”

William J Phillips IV

President, Bloomington-Normal

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE Retail, Office, Land, Lease Space, Investment & Multi-Family

205 N. Williamsburg, BL $174,900 or $11.50/sq. ft.

• Condo Unit B – 1,750 sq. ft.

• For Sale or Lease • Professional Office - Medical, Financial Consults, & Mortgage Bank • Easy access from Washington St. or Eastland Dr. - two blocks East of Veteran’s Parkway • Adjacent to office park and Social Security Office • Parking for 4.25 spaces per 1,000 sq. ft.

• Taxes for 2019 - $3,628

201 Prospect

$4,200/mo.

4,500 sq. ft.

Open Floor Plan, Formerly a fitness center.

Redbird Property Management, Inc. Call Tom O’Rourke, Managing Broker, at

(309) 454-4888 www.redbirdapts.com

105 N. Center, BL $528,940 ($76/sq. ft.)

Mike Flynn Broker-Lawyer-REALTOR® 309-662-2124 mflynn@cbcregroup.com

• Office Bldg., 6,963 sq. ft., 3 Floors • Downtown Bloomington across from Law & Justice Center • Well-appointed with many updatesMUST SEE!!

• Parking available in city parking deck and on street • Located in the Enterprise Zone • Zoned B-3 (Central Business District)

Mike Flynn Broker-Lawyer-REALTOR® 309-662-2124 mflynn@cbcregroup.com

Great time to buy or sell commercial real estate!

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated.

January 2021 | Limited Magazine 13

6th Annual Ugliest Sweater Run

Saturday, Dec. 5 Miller Park, Bloomington Hosted by Bloomington Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts and Fleet Feet Story by Kevin Barlow Photos by Carlos T. Miranda‌ On Saturday, Dec. 5, scenic Miller Park was full of ugly. Ugly sweaters featuring tinsel and lights and glitter and corny sayings. And that was the proper attire for the 6th Annual Ugliest Sweater run, a non-competitive, 1.5- or 3-mile run/walk. Because of social distancing, runners were spaced out about 10 feet apart to start.

“It’s not that different from a normal year,” said Julie Sibley of Fleet Feet. “We have 100 people out here, socially distancing on a beautiful day. We like to promote running all year long to stay healthy and get some exercise. In the right gear, you can run in all temperatures.”

Jill Eichholz, program manager for the Bloomington Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts, said there were a few tweaks this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic including no indoor access and a staggered start. “But everybody is happy to have such a nice day to run and participate,” she added.

More photos at pantagraph.com/limited

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Eli Bricker

Eveliz Maldonado crossing the finish line

Santa, Thom Rakestraw, Jill Eichholz, Julie Sibley

Limited Magazine | January 2021

The Molina family: Danielle, Brielle, Phoenix and Juan

Audrey Sparks

Kara Segobiano, Michelle and Micah Hortega, Julia Daniel

Mateo Miranda

Jaron Zehr, Alex, Carrie and Abbie Soares

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*All pricing includes all applicable incentives. All financing with approved credit. Tax, title, license and doc fee extra. Offers end 1/4/21. Dealer will not honor price errors in ad.

January 2021 | Limited Magazine 15

6th Annual Ugliest Sweater Run

Garrison and Rebekah Kaufmann Rich and Lindsey Minick

Liz Harper, John Smith III

Central Catholic Saints Alive 2020

Saturday, Nov. 20 Saint’s Speakeasy Central Catholic High School, Bloomington Photos by Carlos T. Miranda and provided to Limited

Scott Vogel, Kevin Cook

CCHS principal Sean Foster and Scott Vogel watch the live feed

Mendy and John Smith

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Ruth Groskopf, Julie Bennett, Jennifer Lastuka, Laura Vogel

Limited Magazine | January 2021

It’s hard to keep a good fundraiser down. And Covid proved no match for the popular Central Catholic High School fundraiser, Saints Alive. While the event did move to a virtual format, there was all the excitement and fun that always accompanies this over-the-top evening.

Deb Lesser’s Speakeasy theme was evident in all the big and small details, right down to the prop cigar in Scott Vogel’s vest pocket. Central Catholic’s student center was transformed into a prohibition-era establishment.

Host Kevin Cook kept the 150 viewing parties entertained all night with his glib patter.

Guests were able to watch and bid from the comfort of their home as they enjoyed great food and the signature cocktail of the evening—the Bees Knees—from Bloomington Country Club.

Guests were able to bid on fabulous live and silent auction items including a low country boil and banjo night, a fire table, Biaggi’s dinner for 10 and much more. John Carter, class of ’93, donated a beautiful 1.0 ct. diamond necklace for the champagne raffle.

One of the highlights of the evening was recognizing the Alumni Association Award honorees Stew Salowitz and Rob and Martha Hillmer.

Andrew Bordewick

Tait, Kayla, Kristi, Bob and Martha Hillmer with LeAnna and Rick Mutchler

Kris Koch, Yvonne Tabb, Cristin Lee

Alumni Achievement honoree Stew Salowitz

Serena and Sarah Herr

Vic and Susan Sivore; Karen and Craig Ames

Laura and Scott Vogel

Kim Cox, Yvonne Tabb

January 2021 | Limited Magazine 17

Central Catholic Saints Alive 2020

John R. Snyder Saintly Service honorees Martha and Bob Hillmer

The Baby Fold’s Festival of Trees Aimee Beam, Baby Fold vice president of development and public relations

Monday, Nov. 16 Eastland Mall, Bloomington Photos by David Proeber Story by Kelsey Watznauer The 27th annual festival looked a little different this year. It moved into the former MC Sports location in Eastland Mall which was filled with 33 seven-foot trees, 60 fourfoot trees, 50 trees two feet tall and Star atop the Dunbar, Breitweiser & Carol Ropp, Margaret Ann Hayden more than 100 wreaths, gingerbread Co. tree houses, centerpieces and other were adopted. Vickie holiday decorations. It is the largest contacted Aimee Beam, fundraiser of the year for the orgaThe Baby Fold VP of Rotarians pride the Community Service nization.

Development and Public themselves on being committee, suggested Jessica Shaw, coordinator of Relations to let her know. “people of action. ” And adopting a Baby Fold development operations for The it’s more than a slogan. client wish list. The rotary Aimee had other lists Baby Fold and coordinator for the waiting, so she posted They live it. They own it. club is divided up into Festival of Trees, joked that by now those and once again Just ask The Baby Fold.

14 “Circles of Giving,” Rotarians and others rose they’ve probably planned for 10 The Baby Fold was groups of 8-12 Rotarians to the occasion. different versions of the festival, the recipient of the who commit to regular Rotarians adopted 118 adjusting for changes related to the Bloomington-Normal giving toward Rotary wish lists, but there are COVID-19 pandemic.

Sunrise Rotary’s recent International projects.. still more children who generosity as the club Vickie’s goal was to have Shaw said capacity inside the need help.

If you would was searching for ways each circle take on a list festival was kept under 25%, and like to help make a child’s to creatively complete and make that child’s the peppermint stickers that lead Christmas brighter, community service Christmas merry. through the trees encouraged visiplease go to thebabyfold. projects within the About a week after tors to maintain distance between org to adopt or fund a Covid safety guidelines. presenting this idea to other groups. need.

Vickie Mahrt, who is on the club, all the wish lists

People of Holiday Action

18

Limited Magazine | January 2021

Camilla Harper, Courtney Gibson holding Harper

Gingerbread House

Kim Gebhardt, Phyllis Litwiller

Sharon Fulks, Janice Magenheimer, Lisa Hardesty, Evelyn Ehlers

State Farm sponsored tree

Red, white and blue tree

Santa Claus (Chuck Wilson)

Growmark sponsored tree

January 2021 | Limited Magazine 19

The Baby Fold’s Festival of Trees

Snowman wreath

It’s a Family Affair

It’s a

FAMILY Affair

The Muharemoski family: Erol, Edis, Ramko, Eddie Story by Jonell Kehias Photos by David Proeber

T

here is a saying that you can tell how good a restaurant is by the number of cars in the parking lot (obviously a pre-Covid statement). The same could be true for auto shops. The lot at Twin City Garage, 604 Orlando Ave, Normal is always packed with all sorts of vehicles. Old cars. New cars. Motorcyles.

American and foreign makes and models.

It’s melting pot of transportation.

Twin City Garage is a small shop with a big reputation and a huge and devoted fan base. They have a 4.6 Google Review rating that is filled with comments like “I usually don’t write reviews but I just thought the service was awesome.” “They get things done fast and for a great price.” “I adore this place.” “Rock star Mechanics—the best family staff ” And family is what it is all about to the owners of Twin City Garage. The garage is owned by Ramko Muharemoski and his three sons, Edis, Eddie and Erol, all work there. Erol handles the books while Edis

20

“

Family is everything to us

”

and Eddie fix cars with Ramko.

“Family is everything to us,” explains Erol, who does most of the talking for the family.

The Muharemoskis hail from Macedonia, where Ramko was always a bit of an entrepreneur. Erol, who moved here in 2011 when he was 17, does most of the speaking for the family. His English, one of five languages he speaks, is impeccable.

The family moved to America for more opportunity and to offer the sons a better life. Erol’s mother Afrdita, who is an American citizen, moved here in in 2010 to start the paperwork process. Ramko, Erol, Eddie and Edis followed in 2011.

“We struggled at first,” said Erol.

“We always had food on the table but there was a lot to learn, like how to get a job, enrolling in school, finding your

Limited Magazine | January 2021

way around town.” Because of Erol’s proficiency in English, he took on the role of translator, accompanying his parents and siblings everywhere so they could understand what was being told to them and Erol could be their voice.

Erol and his brothers all attended Bloomington High School. After graduation Erol attended Heartland Community College for two years, and then went on to Illinois State University, where he graduated a semester early with a double major in Accounting and International Business. Erol was the first of his family to graduate from college.

While going to school full-time, Erol also worked full-time at McDonalds, rising through the ranks to become a department manager. He would go to school from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and then work from 3:30 to 11:30 p.m. and after that he would start his homework.

Working long and hard hours comes naturally to Erol, as his father instilled in him, and his brothers, an incredible work ethic.

In Macedonia his father worked in the lumber industry, did plumbing, and

It’s a Family Affair

Eddie in the garage by vehicles waiting to be serviced.

Ramko reaches for a part

Eddie, Edis and Ramko opened a tool shop and a coffee shop.

But Ramko’s passion was always cars, especially European cars with Mercedes being his favorite.

“He learned to work on cars from working on his Mercedes,” said Erol. ‘And if there was something he couldn’t do on the car, he would watch a mechanic work on it. And he would watch other people work on their cars. He was nosy.”

Ramko is just one of the lucky individuals who can “figure things out” “He can do anything,” brags Erol.

“Plumbing, remodeling, flooring, anything.” Ramko is helping Erol remodel

his home, and, just like the garage, they are doing it as a family. “We work hard and save money, not spend money,” explains Erol.

This philosophy is partly why they are so popular with their customers, which as one reviewer states “hands down the cheapest garage in town…and just because their prices are low and cheap does not in any way mean that they are short on quality!”

“My dad works with everyone,” says Erol. “He doesn’t’ just work for the rich people. He knows that sometimes even if you lose money it’s ok, because you can’t

turn someone down.”

And that is why everyone who stops in the garage always asks for Ramko.

Sons Eddie and Edis agree that there is a different energy when Ramko isn’t there.

“Customers love him.”

The Muharemoski family is banking on that love to carry them in their next endeavor…an Auto Mall that they hope to open in mid-February, 2021, on South Main St. in Bloomington.

“Our goal is to have about 50 used cars,” said Erol. “Good cars with lots of variety that will fit every budget and lifestyle.” Right now they are in the inventory acquisition stage, including some of Ramko’s beloved European vehicles.

Having a well-established garage with rave reviews will be a plus for Auto Mall, as they not only have a built-in customer base, but also the skill and knowledge to back all vehicles with a warranty. Erol is also planning on offering financing, online purchasing and maybe even delivery.

As many local businesses are struggling to survive during the pandemic, the Muharemoski family is doubling down and expanding their automotive footprint.

They’ve got a lot of things in their favor— a great reputation, an entrepreneurial father with great instincts and, most importantly, a support system that will do anything for the family. Because with the Muharemoskis, it’s all about family.

January 2021 | Limited Magazine 21

Poem

WALKING HOME FROM SCHOOL IN

Winter

by Michael Escoubas

I brought my mittens that day; good thing I did when the bus dropped me off at the head of the lane, snow was blinding, made so by the wind.

Snow was piling up making it hard to see the barbed wire fence and the deep ditch where pheasants often lay; I slipped and fell in it.

A mile later the pale light of Mama’s kitchen came in sight, mittens caked with ice, glasses fogged by hot breath steaming through my scarf.

Mama met me at the door with tears, Car is snowed in, thank God you’re home.

Should I Text My Lawyer?

Text messages are a common way of communicating. Instead of picking up the phone or drafting an email, many like the ease and quickness of sending a text.

For this reason, many clients text their lawyer in a divorce or family law matter.

Text communications can be short and to the point. Clients can also attach photos and videos to texts.

Is texting an effective form of communication for clients going through a divorce or family law matter? There are no black and white rules in terms of texting.

There are also no rules or statutes that explicitly prohibit lawyers from texting their clients per se. Some lawyers might be willing to text their clients, while other lawyers might not want to do so.

Some lawyers may not even be tech-savvy enough to text with their clients.

First, texting is often short and to the point, as explained above. The lawyer or the client could misinterpret the shortness of the communication, causing miscommunication, an increase in fees, or frustration. Many conversations instead require a lot more dialogue and analysis

than a short text message exchange.

Second, texting is not always the most secure way of communication. Texting is not encrypted communication.

This fact makes it easier for others to intercept or read the conversation.

Third, it is possible a client puts the phone down and somebody else picks it up and reads the communication. With texts, it can be quick and easy to see recent communication and attorney-client privilege could be jeopardized.

Fourth, text communication often does not make its way into a client’s file.

It can be hard for a lawyer to print off the texts and actually get them into the file.

It can be cumbersome for the law firm or lawyer (and expensive for the client in terms of legal fees) to print the text communications. Thus, when a client requests their file at the end of the case, the texts might not be there. As it relates to important matters, the client may want that text communication if they did not retain it on their own device.

Fifth, text communication lacks the formality of other types of communication. The lack of formality can cause some clients to say things spontaneously to their lawyer. This can be damaging to the attorney-client relationship if they are upset or angry about something.

Email is typically more secure be- website. They also give their clients their cause it is encrypted. Email is also a bit cell phone numbers. Call for a consultamore formal and allows for lengthier tion today at 855-805-0595. communication. The lengthier communiTo schedule a consultation: cation can often lead to better and more effective communication. Additionally, it is easier for a lawyer to print off an email chain and put that chain into the client file. For most clients, they appreciate this on the back-end when the case is over.

Finally, while texting is easy and convenient, with most smartphones, a The choice of a lawyer is an important decision that should not client can send an email just as quickly as be based solely upon advertisements. Stange Law Firm, PC is responsible for the content. Principal place of business 120 a text. In terms of convenience, sending South Central Ave, Suite 450, Clayton, MO 63105. Neither the Supreme Court of Missouri/Illinois nor The Missouri/Illinois an email versus a text is comparable.

Bar reviews or approves certifying organizations or specialist Of course, phone calls, video con- designations. Court rules do not permit us to advertise that we in a particular field or area of law. The areas of law ferences, or in-person meetings can often specialize mentioned in this article are our areas of interest and generally be more effective than email or text com- are the types of cases which we are involved. It is not intended to suggest specialization in any areas of law which are mentioned munication. While many clients want in- The information you obtain in this advertisement is not, nor is to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney stant answers in the heat of the moment, itforintended advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to if the situation can wait, the best commu- contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail.

Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. nication can often take place by phone, Past results afford no guarantee of future results and every case is different and must be judged on its merits. video conference, or in-person.

Stange Law Firm, PC limits their practice to family law matters including divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, guardianship, adoption, mediation, collaborative law and other domestic relation matters.

McLean County Office Stange Law Firm, PC gives clients 1012 Ekstam Drive, Suite 4 24/7 access to their case through a secured online case tracker found on the Bloomington, Illinois 61704

855-805-0595

WWW.STANGELAWFIRM.COM

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Limited Magazine | January 2021

Arrived Men’s Salon

Trish Nesby describes herself as someone who can’t sit down and can’t shut up. It’s hard to imagine she was ever anything but the confident, assured owner of Arrived Men’s Salon, 514 North main Street, downtown Bloomington (formerly known as The Stashe.)

“I’ve been working since I was 14 years old,” explains Trish. “I have worked in all different kinds of customer service and had never found my career path, until I drove

by Hair Masters Institute of Cosmetology and saw an open enrollment sign”. And thus begins the story of how Trish arrived from being a stylist, to becoming a small business owner.

Trish was recruited by the owners of The Stashe to being one of their stylists. Trish built up her clientele by focusing on her client’s experience and finding exciting ways to keep her customers happy.

Then the pandemic shut down hair salons. When salons could once again open their doors, The Stashe decided not to reopen. One of the previous owners of The Stashe offered Trish the opportunity to take over the lease. And at the time she was also considering other options. “I wasn’t that confident “,she laughs. “I thought to myself that I can barely manage myself, how

can I manage a business, but I also knew that if I didn’t take the risk now, I would never known what could’ve been. What’s the worst that could happen I would be in debt, but well I’ve been in debt before.”

So she made the leap of faith, faith in herself. And that of her former Stashe co-worker Jamie Gaherty who worked with Trish for several years. Jaime is now a master stylist at Arrived and is her own boss.

Customers appreciate the variety and quality of the services. Arrived services include haircuts, beard trims, neck trims, hot towel, tea tree experience, facials, several waxing services, color camos, and perms upon request. There is also a massage therapist on site that offers a whole suite of rejuvenating services.

While beard trims and a few other services cannot be performed now due to Covid, the salon takes safety precautions very seriously and all must be Barbicide Covid-19 certified. While the salon specializes in men’s services, they also cater to women and children.

Above: Jamie Gaherty and Trish Nesby hold up the new Arrived signage.

Left: Seating area for clients to relax

As many businesses have been knocked on their heels by 2020, Trish is full steam ahead. She is greatful for the support she receives from her clients and the downtown community and, in turn, helps promote other small businesses to keep people shopping local.

Trish is confident that her business will thrive and evolve into something even bigger.

To make an appointment or learn more about Arrived Men’s Salon website at Arrivedmenssalon.com, Facebook @Arrived Mens Salon, Instagram @arrivedsalon or email arrivedsalon@gmail.com or call 309-808-2768.

Book Your Appointment noW! Trish Nesby - Master Stylist/Owner Owner of Arrived Men’s Salon & Master Hair and Beard Sculptor.

BOOK WiTH TriSH NOW! Scan the code.

Jamie Gaherty - Master Stylist Jamie has been behind the chair for 22 years and went to the Midwest College of Cosmetology.

BOOK WiTH JAMie NOW! Scan the code.

Text Arrived To 309-518-9044 To receive Special Offers & Updates 514 N. Main St., Bloomington • ph 309-808-2768 January 2021 | Limited Magazine 23

A moment with...

A T M MO EN WITH

TOP LAWYERS BLOOMINGTON AREA

BASED UPON A SURVEY OF THEIR PEERS These LEADING LAWYERS have been recommended by their peers to be among the TOP LAWYERS in Illinois.

Farrah L. Hagan Julia B. McCarthy A. Clay Cox Larry A. Apfelbaum Todd A. Bresney Charles N. Edmiston II William J. Harrington Kathy A. Olivero John J. Waldman Timothy W. Kelly Terence B. Kelly Kathleen McDonald Kraft Gina L. Wood Eitan Weltman Thomas M. Barger III Peter W. Brandt Kirk A. Holman Thomas A. Jennings Elizabeth B. Megli Richard E. Stites William C. Wetzel David M. Moss Nathan B. Hinch Jay D. Reece Lars Eric Ostling Robert T. Varney

Brady Connolly & Masuda PC Brady Connolly & Masuda PC Cox & Fulk LLC Kanoski Bresney Kanoski Bresney Kanoski Bresney Kanoski Bresney Kanoski Bresney Kanoski Bresney Kelly & Castagna LLC Kraft Wood & Kelly LLC Kraft Wood & Kelly LLC Kraft Wood & Kelly LLC Law Office of Eitan Weltman LivingstonBarger LivingstonBarger LivingstonBarger LivingstonBarger LivingstonBarger LivingstonBarger LivingstonBarger Moss & Moss PC Mueller Reece & Hinch LLC Mueller Reece & Hinch LLC Ostling & Associates Robert T. Varney & Associates

Normal Normal Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Clinton Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington

309.862.4924 309.862.4914 309.828.7331 309.829.5700 309.829.5700 309.829.5700 309.829.5700 309.829.5700 309.829.5700 309.820.0600 309.829.7069 309.829.7069 309.829.7069 309.829.4422 309.828.5281 309.828.5281 309.828.5281 309.828.5281 309.828.5281 309.828.5281 309.828.5281 217.935.8341 309.827.4055 309.827.4055 309.827.3030 309.827.4444

Workers’ Compensation Defense Workers’ Compensation Defense Bankrupt/Workout: Comm; Close/Private Held; Emp Benefits; Tax: Bus; Trust/Will/Estate Workers’ Compensation Personal Injury: General Workers’ Compensation Personal Injury: General Workers’ Compensation Workers’ Compensation Personal Injury: General; PI: Prof’l Malpractice; PI Pltf: Product Liability; ADR: PI Personal Injury: General; PI: Professional Malpractice; Workers’ Compensation Adoption & Reproductive Technology; Family Criminal Defense: Felonies & Misdemeanors; Family; Juvenile Creditor’s Rights/Commercial Collections ; Real Estate: Residential Close/Private Held; Real Estate: Commercial; Trust/Will/Estate Commercial Litigation; Med-Mal Defense; PI Defense: General Personal Injury Defense: General Agriculture; Real Estate: Commercial; Trust/Will/Estate Close/Private Held; Creditor’s Rights; Land Use/Zoning; RE: Comm; Trust/Will/Estate Comm Lit; Med-Mal Defense; PI Def: General; Product Liab Def; ADR: PI Land Use/Zoning; Public Utilities; Real Estate: Comm; RE: Residential; Tax: Business Workers’ Compensation Construction; Real Estate: Commercial; RE: Residential Close/Private Held; Land Use/Zoning; Real Estate: Comm; RE: Residential Bankruptcy: Individual; Foreclosure Defense Ins/Insurance Cov/Reinsurance; PI Def: General; Products Liab Def; Toxic Torts Def

These EMERGING LAWYERS have been identified by their peers to be among the TOP LAWYERS in Illinois who are age 40 or younger OR who have been admitted to the practice of law for 10 or fewer years.

Amelia S. Buragas

Bolen Robinson & Ellis LLP

Bloomington

217.429.4296

Civil Appellate; Personal Injury: General

Neel Mookerjee

Brady Connolly & Masuda PC

Normal

309.862.4914

Workers’ Compensation Defense

A. Christopher Cox

Cox & Fulk LLC

Bloomington

309.828.7331

Close/Private Held; Commercial Litigation

Patrick R. Cox

Cox & Fulk LLC

Bloomington

309.828.7331

Close/Private Held; RE: Residential; Tax: Business; Tax: Indiv; Trust/Will/Estate

J. Harrison Fulk

Cox & Fulk LLC

Bloomington

309.828.7331

Family

Gina Couri-Cyphers

Kanoski Bresney

Bloomington

309.829.5700

Personal Injury: General

Laura A. Castagna

Kelly & Castagna LLC

Bloomington

309.820.0600

Personal Injury: General

Katharine E. Gonzalez

Kraft Wood & Kelly LLC

Bloomington

309.829.7069

Family

Jonathan J. Bobell

LivingstonBarger

Bloomington

309.828.5281

Med-Mal Defense; Personal Injury Defense: General

Rachel J. Brandt

LivingstonBarger

Bloomington

309.828.5281

Commercial Litigation

A lawyer CANNOT buy the distinction of Leading or Emerging Lawyer. The distinction was earned by being among those lawyers most often recommended by their peers. For a full description of our research process, a complete list of all Leading or Emerging Lawyers, and to view profiles of the lawyers listed on this page, go to

www.LeadingLawyers.com A Division of Law Bulletin Media – est. 1854

24

Limited Magazine | January 2021

The Pantagraph’s Holiday Spectacular

ZOOMTACULAR VIRTUAL SHOW

Watch FREE on holidayspectacular.org and pantagraph.com

Available to watch any time through Jan. 22 Featuring your Holiday Spectacular favorite stars and numbers including the precision marching Toy Soldiers, the mass choir nativity and the toe-tappin’ Santa Medley. There will be new numbers plus memorable highlights from past years.

Be spectacular, be safe. Don’t miss this beloved Christmas tradition from the comfort and safety of your own home.

Sponsored in part by

Jerome Mirza Foundation The Village at Mercy Creek, is one of the largest and most trusted Catholic faith-based senior living communities in the Midwest area. Our top priority has always been a safe, secure and healthy environment for everyone.

Call 309-268-1501 to learn more!

1501 Mercy Creek Dr. Normal, IL 61761 www.villageatmercycreek.org

January 2021 | Limited Magazine 25

Now Showing

Now Showing

Downtown Bloomington’s First Friday

Once Upon a Holiday: Live Window Vignettes Friday, Dec. 4 Photos by Carlos T. Miranda It was a beautiful night to wander the streets of Downtown Bloomington, enjoying the decorations and supporting our amazing local businesses. Social distancing, crowd control and mask wearing were the norm as customers wandered in and out of stores, checking out the unique gifts and enjoying the personalized service that comes when you shop local.

Jan Lancaster, Doug Meyer

More photos at pantagraph.com/limited

Ivy Lane’s homage to Home Alone with John Goeckner Carmen Champion

Joan Maney Melanie Rust, Ava Peterson, Erika Zilm

Herb and Pam Eaton, Megan Runyard, Brad Glenn

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Limited Magazine | January 2021

Steve and Karen Timmerman

Downtown Bloomington’s First Friday

Santa (Travis Lickey), Marlene Gregor, Becca Mellott

Amy Kuritz, Grace Baker

Vera & Buck Floral Studio window featuring Lori McCormick

Kelly and Jamie Mathy

Christina Rogers

Greg, Amanda and Angela Lawler check out Krampus at the Eaton Gallery

Have a Safe and Happy New Year!

Thank you for Voting us..

1st Place for Best Day Care 2nd Place for Best Learning Center

Now Enrolling infants, preschool and school age.

Space is Limited! Call 309-662-0303 to Schedule a Tour!

LittleJewelsLearningCenter.com

4117 E. Oakland Ave., Blm. 1730 Evergreen Blvd., Normal 210 N.Williamsburg Dr., Blm.

January 2021 | Limited Magazine 27

Be Great Virtual Breakfast Catherine Porter

Brad Glenn, Karen Schmidt

Chelsea Heffernan from Mystic Kitchen & Tasting Room packaging their delicious Breakfast Flatbread

Wednesday, Dec. 2 Boys& Girls Club of Bloomington-Normal Be Great Virtual Breakfast So this year people didn’t get to wake up early to share a fabulous breakfast at the Marriott in UpTown Normal with 1,000 of their closest friends. They didn’t get to join the convoy of cars snaking down the Marriott parking garage at the end of the breakfast. What the community did get to do was help the Boys & Girls Club by hosting (or being a guest at) a table at this virtual breakfast which supported the important work that the Boys and Girls club does each and every day.

Table host Pam Deaton of HealthMarkets hosted her guests at her office. Table co-hosts Karen Schmidt and Vicki Tilton had their guests attend virtually, but delivered a Be Great Breakfast box to their guests featuring Karen’s homegrown honey, Mystic Kitchen flatbread pizza, Ivy Lane scones and other treats.

Donations are still being accepted and can be done online at https://app.etapestry.com/onlineforms/BoysGirlsClubofBloomington-No/BeGreatBreakfastGift. html Karen Schmidt, Deb Halperin

28

Kirsten Schroeder

Limited Magazine | January 2021

Pam Deaton, Annie Swanson, Scott Swanson, Kimberly Wright

WINTER IS FOR

Winter is the best time for eagle watching in Illinois. January is usually the month for Illinois Audubon’s Bald Eagle Watch , but this year the festivities have been canceled.

That doesn’t mean you can’t get out with your family to watch eagles at Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center (815-667-4726) and the Illinois Waterways Visitor Center (815-6674054). Either can be called for an eagle status update.

As our climate has warmed, some eagles stay and habitat in new areas of the country including Central Illinois. We have had nesting eagles at Lake Bloomington, Clinton

An adult eagle rests at the river’s edge.

Nature Story

eagle watching Story and Photos by Deanna Frautschi

Lake and along the Mackinaw River. While the Bald Eagle’s diet is most often fish, it will feed on carrion and even small rodents and reptiles. It is an “opportunistic” feeder and adapts to a wide variety of carnivorous diets.

Immature eagles have brown heads and bodies and don’t develop all white feathers on their heads until about four to five years of age. Adult Bald Eagles have a wingspan of 6 to 7 feet in flight so it’s hard to miss them. Get out and enjoy eagle watching with your family this winter.

An adult eagle in flight.

An adult and immature eagle dig for fish on shore.

An immature eagle snags a fish.

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January 2021 | Limited Magazine 29

Awe

WHAT’S NEW in the BN AREA! For more information on these new businesses and many more, check out VisitBN.org.

The Bloomington-Normal Area is always booming with new places to go and new eateries to try! We’re eager for you to #VisitBN and explore these new attractions and restaurants that recently opened in our area!

Wild Harvest Honey Farm is a force to ‘bee’ reckoned with! This family-run boutique and farm, located just south of BN, has been the buzz of the area since they opened.

Their mission is to educate people on the importance of bees in our environment. Suit up and head into an apiary where over 4 million bees are kept to see the inner workings of a hive. After this educational tour, check out the Farm’s Honey Tasting Bar which happens to be the largest in the Midwest! Inside the boutique, you can shop for all things honey – apparel, treats, décor, and of course, locallymade honey.

There’s just something magical about good barbecue! Brass Pig Smoke & Alehouse is bringing Bloomington-Normal the freshest, homemade, high-quality barbecue in the area. Their traditional smoking methods with today’s technology allows them to create perfectly smoked meats with so much flavor.

With over 10 craft beers on draft and a Bourbon list to pair with any dish, your dining experience will be unlike anything you have experienced before. Daily features include ribs, cut-to-order brisket, pulled pork, and delicious homemade sides. You’ll have to come see for yourself as to why this new barbecue restaurant is the talk of the town.

Let’s see your best shot at All Seasons Golf Learning Center! All Seasons has revolutionized their golf range with the new TopTracer Range. It’s a video game and golf all wrapped into one fun experience! Track your shots, improve your skills, or even play games with family or friends. The Golf Learning Center has partnered with their adjoining neighbor, BloNo Pizza Co. to bring visitors pizza and drinks directly to their bays. Your dining experience in Bloomington-Normal just got a whole lot more fun!

Founded in 2015, Pokeworks was created from founders who shared a vision of bringing people flavorful food. After many trips to Hawaii filled with lots of poke, the founders decided to bring this island favorite to the Mainland for all to enjoy. This unique restaurant is located in Bloomington at CRAFTED Commons. From Ahi Tuna to Organic Tofu, the poke menu offers something for everyone. Watch as your premium poke meal is freshly made in front of you, for a fully customizable experience.

First Fridays

BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL AREA CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 3201 CIRA Drive, Suite 201, Bloomington, IL / 309.665.0033 / VisitBN.org

Parting Shot

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PA R T I N G S H OT photo by deanna frautschi

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What the new year brings to you will depend a great deal on what you bring to t h e n e w y e a r.

Ve r n M c l e l l a n

January 2021 | Limited Magazine 31

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Limited Magazine | January 2021