peoria, il 2012-2013 community profile
DESCRIPTION
Peoria, IL 2012-2013 Community ProfileTRANSCRIPT
Peoria area Chamber of CommerCe2
Table of ConTenTsWelCome
From the Chamber of Commerce .......................................................................... 4Chamber Programs & Services ............................................................................. 6
neWComers GuideNotes to Know on Your New Home ...................................................................... 8
business in The leadBuilding a Stronger Peoria ................................................................................... 12
eduCaTionReport Card: K–12 .................................................................................................. 18Strength & Diversity: Higher Education ............................................................. 20
CiTy samplerWhat’s Playing in Peoria ....................................................................................... 22Peoria Public Parks ............................................................................................... 24
healTh CareMethodist Medical Center ................................................................................... 28OSF Saint Francis Medical Center ...................................................................... 30Proctor Hospital ..................................................................................................... 31Family House........................................................................................................... 32Illinois CancerCare ................................................................................................ 33
shoppinG sCeneWonderful Wares & Fine Fare ............................................................................. 34
homes & neiGhborhoodsFamily-Friendly to Up-and-Coming ..................................................................... 36
hisTory & heriTaGeTwo Hundred Years & Counting .......................................................................... 38Peoria Chamber: 100+ Years of Service ............................................................. 39Sites & Sights of the Historical Society ............................................................. 40
TransporTaTionNavigating Peoria .................................................................................................. 41
peoria neXTFostering Small Business Growth ....................................................................... 43
eConomiC sCoreCardRating Our Region .................................................................................................. 46
preferred business lisTinGsThank You for Your Support of This Project ...................................................... 56
CommunityLink.com 1 800-455-5600
productionvp of production operationsAmanda White
director of publication design Kelly Friederich
managing editorLaura Wilcoxen
copywritingDavid BallardAmanda KnolesJay NehrkornP eoria Area Chamber
of Commerce
director of photographyJay Nehrkorn
photographyKevin May Photography
lead designJosh Mueller
website creation & support Josh Chandler
director of media purchasing Diana Vaughn
business developmentdirector of business development George Prudhomme
director of outside salesDebbie Moss
business development managerBonnie Ebers
marketing consultantRader Walker
customer service directorKathy Risley
customer service representativeLisa Dolce
advertisingad researchMary KopsheverMildred Walker
ad trafficCarol Smith
ad designMindy Brock
administrative supportadministrative supportKathy HageneCarol Smith
account supportTerri Ahner
human resources assistantTeresa Craig
mailroom technicianMelinda Bowlin
information technologypublishing systems specialistChristopher Miller
executive leadershipchairman and founderCraig Williams
chief financial officerRhonda Harsy
ABOUT This book is published by CommunityLink
and distributed through the Peoria Area Chamber of
Commerce. For advertising information or
questions or comments about this book, contact
CommunityLink at 800-455-5600 or by e-mail at
FOR INFORMATION Peoria Area Chamber of
Commerce, 100 SW Water St., Peoria, IL 61602,
Telephone 309-676-0755, Fax 309-495-5932,
www.peoriachamber.org
© 2012 Craig Williams Creative, Inc., 4742 Holts Prairie
Road, Post Office Box 306, Pinckneyville, IL 62274-0306,
618-357-8653. All rights reserved. No portion of this
book may be reproduced without the expressed written
consent of the publisher.
Visit Peoria onlinehttp://communitylink.com/peoria-illinois/
www.peoriachamber.org 3
indeX of adverTisersAcademy of Screenprinting & Awards, Inc. .......................................5
allcharts™ ...............................................................................................33
Alzheimer’s Association .......................................................................11
AmericInn................................................................... Inside Front Cover
Associated Bank ....................................................................................14
Austin Engineering Company Inc. .......................................................42
Baer Glass, Inc. .......................................................................................10
Berger Accounting & Tax Service, Inc. ...............................................7
Better Built ..............................................................................................10
Busey ........................................................................................................15
Carter Paper & Packaging Inc. ............................................................21
CEFCU........................................................................................................14
Central Illinois Bank ................................................................................7
CGN ...........................................................................................................44
CityLink .....................................................................................................42
Community Foundation of Central Illinois .........................................38
Conference Technologies, Inc. ............................................................43
Coyle Insurance Agency, Inc. ..............................................................13
Cullinan Properties, Ltd. ........................................................................39
DNDC Telephone Company .....................................................................6
Enercon Engineering, Inc. .................................... Outside Back Cover
Federal Warehouse Company ..............................................................45
First Mid-Illinois Bank & Trust ........................... Outside Back Cover
Foth ............................................................................................................13
Fritch Heating/Cooling Inc....................................................................29
Gar Business Consultant – Gary Gerhold ..........................................13
GIVSCO Construction Company ...........................................................15
The Grand Hotel & Conference Center ..............................................17
The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America .........................11
Hardware by Design ..............................................................................37
Husch Blackwell ......................................................................................6
HyVee ........................................................................................................15
Illinois American Water ........................................................................35
Illinois Business Financial Services ..................................................14
Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation ..........................28
JM Industrial Supply .............................................................................15
Kevin May Commercial Photography ...................................................3
KONE Inc. .................................................................................................10
Lippmann’s Furniture & Interiors .........................................................16
Longhorn Steakhouse ..............................................................................5
Mangieri Companies, Inc. .......................................................................5
Methodist Medical Group .....................................................................28
Mid-America Systems ...........................................................................39
Moser’s Shoes, Inc. ................................................................................15
Olive Garden ..............................................................................................5
PCCEO .......................................................................................................45
Pearl Companies ......................................................................................3
Peoria City/County Health Department ..............................................29
Peoria Public Schools ...........................................................................19
Peoria Rescue Ministries .....................................................................11
Portable Moving & Storage of Central IL, Inc.....................................1
Proctor Endowment Home ....................................................................15
Proctor Hospital ......................................................................................31
Richard L. Renner, CPA ..........................................................................15
River City Construction ............................................................................9
SAL Child Care Connection ..................................................................35
Springdale Cemetery & Mausoleum ..................................................39
SpringHill Suites by Marriott ...............................................................27
Stoney Creek Inn & Conference Center .............................................25
Traders Insurance Agency Corp. .........................................................37
Ulftring Subaru ........................................................................................10
University of Illinois Springfield .........................................................19
Walmart ....................................................................................................16
Workforce Network ...........................................................................5, 17
Peoria area Chamber of CommerCe4
In its mission statement, the Peoria Area Cham-ber of Commerce clearly defines the main goal: to be the leading voice and resource for business in the region. The Chamber is
a pro-active organization that provides value to its members by maintaining strong leader-ship in dealing with critical business issues. The Chamber seeks to advocate for business sense through selective involvement on issues of local importance. These issues are those on which the Chamber has credibility as well as the ability to influence the outcome.
The Chamber works diligently to enhance both the business climate and the quality of place in Greater Peoria through both invalu-able member-only and overall community
development. In regards to member benefits, the Chamber leverages, promotes and increases the visibility for members and keeps them well connected through a multitude of leadership and networking opportunities. The Chamber prides itself on its unique position as a strategic catalyst and sometimes a community convener to bring together many organizations and individuals in the community to address key issues.
In the fall of 2011, the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors approved a comprehensive three-year strategic plan. The plan provides a roadmap for the Chamber’s next 100 years. There are four guiding principles in this plan: be the leading voice for business in the region through political advocacy; be inclusive
and diverse in our approach to work; advocate to improve the region’s quality of place; and be a source for strong leadership development. Each guiding principle, along with the strategies and tactics that support them, serve to motivate the volunteer and staff leadership to build a strong organization for our second 100 years of leading the business community in Greater Peoria.
The Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce extends its thanks to our members for the past 101 years and looks forward to the next year of positive changes and growth both within the organization and the Greater Peoria region.
WelCome
from The Chamber of CommerCe
www.peoriachamber.org 5
Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce
100 SW Water StreetPeoria, Illinois 61602
phone: 309-676-0755 :: fax: 309-676-7534www.peoriachamber.org
Staff
JIM MCCONOUGHEyChief Executive Officer495-5901 • [email protected]
ROBERTA M. PARKSPresident495-5920 • [email protected]
MEGAN KINGDirector of Marketing495-5974 • [email protected]
KyLIE RUPESales Director258-1329 • [email protected]
TESSA BONELLOAdministrative Assistant495-5970 • [email protected]
JOLENE COLEFront Desk/Receptionist676-0755 • [email protected]
board of direCtorS
THOMAS FLIEGEHawk AgencyChairman
WILL BALLCaterpillar, Inc.Vice Chairman
BRENT EICHELBERGERCommerce Bank, N.A. Treasurer
MICHAEL WIESEHANLippmann’s Furniture and Interiors Past Chairman
DARRIN AUTRyCommerce Bank, N.A.
DAVID COCHRANSouth Side Trust and Savings Bank
ROBERT GATES Kavanagh, Scully, Sudow, White & Frederick
KAREN JENSENFarnsworth Group
TOM LANDONCalihan Pork Processors
MICHAEL MALOOFJim Maloof Realtor
JIM MCCONOUGHEyThe Heartland Partnership
KELLy PETERSENAbsolute Risk Management Strategies
CHARLES PURCELLG & D Integrated
DEBBIE RITSCHELWater Street Group
MARy JO SCHETTLERPar-A-Dice Hotel Casino
VICKy STEWARTIllinois Central College
JOSH WAITENorthwestern Mutual
DAVID WALTyHeart Technologies, Inc.
BOB WOOLSEyJones Bros. Jewelers, Inc.
WelCome
Peoria area Chamber of CommerCe6
The Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce is the leading voice and resource for busi-ness in the region. How do we do that? We focus on four main areas, all part of
our strategic plan. We are engaged in political advocacy, we are involved in leadership and leadership development, we focus on quality of place within the region, and we are inclusive in our work with members and their employees to meet their needs and interests.
To break that down and be much more specific is very easy. In political advocacy we work to represent the interests of our members, particularly at the state and local levels. We do that by keeping membership informed. We have a Government Affairs e-newsletter that keeps members current on what is happening and calls them to action when needed. We survey our members to understand their perspectives on issues of importance. We host events to give members face-to-face access with elected officials throughout the region. We bring business people together to share their perspective with elected leaders. We meet regularly with the Peoria City Council and the Peoria Public School Board to make sure we understand each other’s perspec-tives. We have a strong legislative agenda that guides our work. We make trips to the State Capitol to talk with our legislators in their envi-ronment. Some of that work is done through Central Illinois Regional Chamber Legislative Effort (CIRCLE). We were part of the early for-mation of CIRCLE three years ago and it has now expanded to include 18 communities and chambers throughout the central part of the state. We do all of this and more to make sure area elected officials hear and understand the voice of business.
We play an active role in leadership within the community and take seriously our role in leader-ship development. The Chamber’s Community Leadership School has been developing leaders for over 30 years. Our Young Professionals of Greater Peoria (YPGP) is focused specifically on making sure that the next generation of leaders are connected to both the Chamber and the overall community. YPGP provides professional development; access to mature community lead-ers; social opportunities; involvement in chari-table activities; and more. YPGP is also a benefit
Chamber proGrams & serviCes
WelCome
www.peoriachamber.org 7
to member companies as they seek to attract and retain young professionals within their organization.
Quality of place is critical to business success. The Chamber works to enhance our quality of place through many educational activities. Whether it is active involvement in the math, science and technology charter school or recruiting companies and volunteers to help with Reading Buddies in the Peoria Public Schools, we know that educational attainment is a critical factor for both individual and community success. Additionally we work to make sure young people see and understand the career options that exist right here in Greater Peoria and what it takes for them to be success-ful in those careers. We want to be part of building our future workforce. But beyond just education, we know there are other important issues and projects that enhance the quality of place, so we are involved in those also. This could be anything from supporting referenda issues to addressing big community problems. The Chamber is seen many times as a community convener.
And finally, we offer a wide array of programs, marketing opportunities, networking events and more to make sure our members are building their businesses and their employees for success. Our programs range from large events — like the State of the City or the State of the Schools, where leader-ship in those organizations talk about past successes and future plans — to a business-to-business trade show that gives members the opportunity to introduce new products and services to the larger business community. But we also offer up-close and personal program opportunities, from small one-on-one Speed Networking to our larger monthly Business After Hours, along with seasonal networking events — the Thanksgiving Day Luncheon and Annual Golf Outing. The Chamber also provides various workshops
and webinars to help keep employee skills and knowledge current and relevant.
The Chamber completed a new three-year strategic plan in the spring of 2012 and has begun to implement that plan. Our goal is to drive extraordi-nary value to our members. Members will see increased government affairs work; new program delivery platforms to allow them to access Chamber services at their convenience; more personal contact from staff and volun-teers to better understand member interests; increased partnerships with other business organizations around the region and state; and an emphasis on regionalism. So stay tuned and watch the changes unfold in YOUR Chamber of Commerce.
WelCome
Peoria area Chamber of CommerCe8
noTes To KnoW on your neW homeArea codes are 309 unless otherwise specified.
PoPulationPeoria Metro Area ........................................................ 376,046
Peoria County ................................................................ 185,108
Marshall County .............................................................. 12,763
Stark County ...................................................................... 6,086
Tazewell County ............................................................ 133,863
Woodford County ............................................................ 38,226
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006–2010 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
Age/Gender Demographics Peoria Metro Area TOTAL PERCENTAGE
18 years and over .................. 285,013 ............................75.8%
Over 65 years of age ............... 55,168 .............................14.7%
Median age ............................... 38.3
Male .................................................................................48.8%
Female ..............................................................................51.2%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006–2010 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
EmPloymEnt and incomE
Labor and Workforce Statistics
Labor Force – Peoria MSA ............................................ 202,482
Unemployment Rate ..........................................................9.0%
Employed ....................................................................... 184,204
Unemployed .................................................................... 18,278
Source: Illinois Department of Employment Security, February 2012
Median Household Income
Peoria Metro Area ........................................................ $52,451
Peoria County ................................................................ $68,043
Marshall County ............................................................ $58,911
Stark County .................................................................. $64,295
Tazewell County ............................................................ $66,170
Woodford County .......................................................... $77,920
Illinois State .................................................................. $55,735
U.S. ................................................................................ $51,914
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006–2010 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
Per Capita Income
Peoria Metro Area ........................................................ $27,739
Peoria County ................................................................ $28,157
Marshall County ............................................................ $24,991
Stark County .................................................................. $25,311
Tazewell County ............................................................ $27,036
Woodford County .......................................................... $29,475
Illinois State .................................................................. $28,782
U.S. ................................................................................ $27,334
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006–2010 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates
cost of living
Peoria Metro Area
Composite ........................................................................... 92.9
Grocery Items ...................................................................... 91.1
Housing ............................................................................... 84.4
Utilities ................................................................................ 99.9
Transportation ................................................................... 106.0
Health Care ......................................................................... 93.4
Miscellaneous Goods and Services ................................... 94.4
U.S. average for all indices is 100.0.
Source: ACCRA Cost of Living Index, 2011 Annual Average Data
distancEs to major citiEs (milEs)
Within 250 Miles
Springfield, IL ......................................................................... 72
Chicago, IL ............................................................................ 141
St. Louis, MO ....................................................................... 158
Indianapolis, IN .................................................................... 201
Milwaukee, WI .................................................................... 233
Over 250 Miles
Atlanta, GA .......................................................................... 685
Dallas, TX ............................................................................. 806
New York, NY ....................................................................... 901
Denver, CO............................................................................ 914
Los Angeles, CA ................................................................ 1,953
Source: Economic Development Council for Central Illinois
chambEr mEmbEr major EmPloyErs
15,000+ Employees
Caterpillar, Inc. ............................................................ 675-1000
1,500+ Employees
Methodist Medical Center .......................................... 672-5522
OSF Saint Francis Medical Center .............................. 655-2000
Peoria School District 150 .......................................... 672-6559
Wal-Mart
All locations in Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford counties
500 to 1,500 Employees
AmerenCILCO .............................................................. 672-5252
Bradley University ....................................................... 676-7611
CEFCU ...................................................................800-633-7077
City of Peoria ............................................................... 494-8565
G&D Integrated Manufacturing Logistics Inc. ............ 284-6700
Illinois Central College ................................................ 694-5558
Keystone Steel and Wire Co. ..................................... 697-7020
Kroger Co.
All locations in Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford counties
Par-A-Dice Casino ....................................................... 699-7711
Peoria County .............................................................. 672-6056
Peoria Journal Star ..................................................... 686-3000
Proctor Hospital .......................................................... 691-1000
United States Postal Service ...................................... 671-8800
All locations in Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford counties
University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria .. 671-3000
Source: Economic Development Council for Central Illinois, February 2012
Education
K-12
Peoria Public Schools, District 150 .................www.psd150.org
Concordia Lutheran School .............www.concordiapeoria.com
Peoria Academy .................................www.peoriaacademy.org
Peoria Christian School ...................... www.peoriachristian.org
Quest Charter Academy .......................... www.questpeoria.org
Higher Education
Benedictine University .........................................www.ben.edu
Bradley University ..........................................www.bradley.edu
Eureka College ................................................www.eureka.edu
Illinois Central College .......................................... www.icc.edu
Midstate College ........................................ www.midstate.edu
Midwest Technical Institute .................www.midwesttech.edu
Robert Morris University ............www.robertmorris.edu/peoria
U of I College of Medicine at Peoria ....... www.uicomp.uic.edu
U of I at Springfield – Peoria Center ....................www.uis.edu
illinois statE taxEs
Percentage of Net Income
Corporate Income Tax ......................................................9.50%
Personal Income Tax ........................................................5.00%
Source: Economic Development Council for Central Illinois, 2011
neWComers Guide
www.peoriachamber.org 9
climatE/toPograPhyRegion .............................................................Eastern Midwest
Average high temperature ..................................................60°F
Average low temperature ...................................................41°F
Source: Economic Development Council for Central Illinois
utilitiEs
Cable
Comcast....................................................................... 688-9828
Electricity
AmerenCILCO .............................................................. 677-5271
Natural Gas
AmerenCILCO .............................................................. 677-5271
Telephone
AT&T ............................................................................ 495-0769
Water
Illinois American Water .............................................. 671-3701
mEdia
Newspaper
Peoria Journal Star ..................................................... 686-3000
www.pjstar.com
Television
ABC (WHOI) ................................................................. 698-2525
www.cinewsnow.com
CBS (WMBD) ............................................................... 688-3131
www.centralillinoisproud.com
FOX (WYZZ) ................................................................. 688-3131
www.centralillinoisproud.com
MY Network (WAOE) .................................................. 674-5900
www.my59.tv
NBC (WEEK) ................................................................ 698-2525
www.cinewsnow.com
Public (WTVP) .............................................................. 677-4747
www.wtvp.org
tourism
Arts & Science
Lakeview Museum ...................................................... 686-7000
www.lakeview-museum.org
Peoria Area Civic Chorale ........................................... 693-6725
www.peoriacivicchorale.org
Peoria Ballet ................................................................ 690-7990
www.peoriaballet.com
Peoria Symphony Orchestra ........................................ 671-1096
www.peoriasymphony.org
neWComers Guide
Peoria area Chamber of CommerCe10
Theatre
Corn Stock Theatre ..................................................... 676-2196
www.cornstocktheatre.org
Eastlight Theatre ......................................................... 694-0138
www.eastlighttheatre.com
Peoria Players ............................................................. 688-4473
www.peoriaplayers.org
Sports
Bradley University Athletics .............. www.bradleybraves.com
Peoria Chiefs Pro Baseball ......................................... 680-4000
www.peoriachiefs.com
Peoria Rivermen Hockey ............................................. 676-1040
www.rivermen.net
Steamboat Classic ...................................................... 676-6378
www.steamboatclassic.org
Shopping
Evergreen Square .................................................312-675-5423
www.josephfreed.com/evergreen.html
Junction City ............................................................... 740-0808
www.newjunctioncity.com
Metro Centre ............................................................... 692-6690
www.shopmetrocentre.com
Northwoods Mall ........................................................ 688-0444
www.simon.com
The Shoppes at Grand Prairie ..................................... 692-3672
www.theshoppesatgrandprairie.com
Westlake Shopping Center ......................................... 671-1000
Recreation
Clubs at River City ...................................................... 693-5700
www.clubsatrivercity.com
neWComers Guide
www.peoriachamber.org 11
Par-A-Dice Casino ....................................................... 699-7711
www.paradicecasino.com
Peoria Park Districts .................................................... 682-1200
www.peoriaparks.org
Peoria Civic Center ...................................................... 673-8900
www.peoriaciviccenter.com
Wildlife Prairie State Park ......................................... 676-0998
www.wildlifeprairiestatepark.org
Number of Major Hotels/Motels
Peoria County ......................................................................... 31
Tazewell County ..................................................................... 24
Woodford County ..................................................................... 1
imPortant PhonE numbErsEmergencies ......................................................................... 911
Economic Development Council ................................ 495-5953
Federal Court Building ................................................ 671-7215
Illinois State Police ..................................................... 693-5181
Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce ........................... 495-5900
Peoria Area Convention & Visitors Bureau ................ 676-0303
Peoria City Hall ........................................................... 494-8500
Peoria County Courthouse .......................................... 672-6056
Peoria Fire Department (non-emergency) ................... 494-8700
Peoria Police Department (non-emergency) ............... 673-4521
Peoria Public Library ................................................... 497-2000
Peoria Public Schools .................................................. 693-4400
neWComers Guide
Peoria area Chamber of CommerCe12
business in The lead
From international giants like Caterpillar to home-grown entrepreneurs, Peoria has always maintained a diverse mix of busi-ness and industry. Peoria’s private sector
continues to build on a long heritage of strength and vitality.
catErPillarwww.cat.com
For more than 85 years, Caterpillar has been making sustainable progress possible and driv-ing positive change on every continent. With hundreds of locations worldwide, Caterpillar is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines, and diesel-elec-tric locomotives. The company also is a leading services provider through Caterpillar Financial Services, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Services, Caterpillar Logistics Services and Progress Rail Services.
Caterpillar has long regarded investing in communities as fundamental to good corporate citizenship. Since its inception in 1954, the Caterpillar Foundation has assisted the com-pany in further maintaining the legacy of good
work in the communities where Caterpillar employees live and work. In 2011, through the employee/retiree matching gifts program and the Foundation’s dollar-for-dollar match to qualified charities, as well as the United Way Appeal, the Foundation contributed more than $14 million to local charities.
Caterpillar’s 16,000 employees, as well as retirees, in central Illinois routinely volunteer in their communities, and some join efforts with nonprofit organizations. Caterpillar is proud that community service continues to be an integral part of its corporate culture.
In 2012, Caterpillar announced it was con-ducting an in-depth study for upgrading and modernizing its corporate headquarters presence in downtown Peoria. The company has con-tracted with four companies that offer extensive design and build experience that will comple-ment the study efforts. The study will help the company determine the options and timing for establishing a headquarters footprint in the downtown Peoria area that is more suited to the company’s long-term future.
haddad’swww.haddadsmarket.com
Haddad’s Market has been a landmark in West Peoria since 1964, offering old-fashioned service with a smile. With a long history as a family-owned business, Haddad’s began as a small grocery in 1919 and expanded over the years to become a full-service market. Started by Joseph Haddad, it was later run by his son Fred and grandson Fred Jr. When Fred Jr. sold the store to Garrett Wrhel in 1996, a new family legacy began. Mark Wrhel started as a stocker and night manager and learned the ropes of the grocery business from his father.
Over the years the Wrhels added new features to the store, including more specialty items and home delivery service. In 2004 Mark took over management of day-to-day operations and made several improvements, including remodeling of the meat, produce and deli departments and add-ing catering to the list of services.
A fire on New Year’s Eve 2010 left Haddad’s in ruins. After months of intensive construction work, the store reopened in November 2011, with most of the previous staff back at work and fanfare that included a grand reopening
By Am A n d A Kn o l e sbuildinG a sTronGer peoria
www.peoriachamber.org 13
business in The lead
celebration and prizes. Featuring a larger counter and new seating area in the deli, wider aisles, and new equipment, the store is 4,000 square feet larger than the previous building.
While the staff and longtime customers have fond memories of the old store, the new and improved Haddad’s is going strong thanks to Wrhel, his loyal employees and a community that has provided unwavering support.
KicKaPoo crEEK WinErywww.kickapoocreekwinery.com
Located just 10 minutes west of Peoria off I-72, Kickapoo Creek Winery is a fun destination for outdoor lovers who enjoy the scenic hiking trails and a favorite spot for wine aficionados who can sample and purchase an assortment of fine wines.
Peoria area Chamber of CommerCe14
The tasting room features the full line of Kickapoo Creek wines along with local cheeses, jellies and other gift items. Lunch is served in the tasting room six days a week (closed Monday), with a menu that features a varied selection of sandwiches, soups, salads, pastas and other entrees.
The scenic, 250-acre property, surrounded by tall oak trees and gorgeous gardens, is a popular spot for picnics, family gatherings and weddings. Maps are available at the Tasting Room for self-guided walking tours. A favorite photo spot is Bridge Gerry, with its view of Lake Elizabeth. Groups who make reservations in advance enjoy a ride around the grounds on the Grape Train.
With vineyards spanning 14 acres, Kickapoo produces close to 50 tons of grapes per year, or 8,000 gallons. The winery currently offers
24 varieties of red, white, rosé, infused and dessert wines. Pêche Blanc, a refreshing white wine infused with peach flavor, was the Silver Medal Winner in the 2011 Illinois State Wine Competition. Kickapoo has also created an infused raspberry wine, Susan, to honor Peoria native Susan G. Komen.
In recent years Kickapoo has expanded its catering business and offers a variety of facilities and event planning staff to accommodate out-door weddings, corporate dinners, bridal show-ers and other functions. Kickapoo is a member of the Illinois River Wine Trail.
PEoria civic cEntErhttp://peoriaciviccenter.com
The Peoria Civic Center, managed by SMG, is an entertainment and convention venue visited
business in The lead
www.peoriachamber.org 15
by nearly 700,000 people each year. Built in 1982 and expanded in 2007, the PCC has had a significant economic impact on the Peoria region, estimated at $20 million annually. Featuring an arena, exhibit hall, theater, ballroom and meeting rooms, the PCC is home to the Peoria Symphony and Peoria Ballet as well as the Bradley Braves men’s basketball team and the Peoria Rivermen hockey team.
Offering a seating capacity of 12,145 for concerts, Carver Arena hosts a variety of per-formances, sports and special events through-out the year. The popular arena hosts concerts from top-name performers like Elton John and Metallica, as well as the Broadway Theater Series, featuring shows like WICKED. Other events include notable speakers, dance troupes and family entertainment like Disney on Ice and the Harlem Globetrotters.
Situated within walking distance of major hotels, restaurants, the Peoria Riverfront Museum and Caterpillar’s Visitor’s Center, the PCC pro-vides an ideal location for conventions, meet-ings, consumer shows and events. As the largest exhibition facility in downstate Illinois, the Civic Center’s 110,000-square-foot Exhibit Hall has the flexibility of being dividable into four halls. Facilities also include a beautiful ballroom with pre-function space, a 2,200-seat theater and 16 breakout rooms connected by a magnificent glass arcade. The experienced PCC staff works with meeting planners to coordinate everything from in-house catering to technical requirements of each convention or event.
WillEtt’s WinEry & cEllarwww.willettswinery.com
Founded by the late Dan Willett and his wife Cris, Willett’s Winery & Cellar, at 105 East Market
business in The lead
Peoria area Chamber of CommerCe16
Street in Manito, opened in 2005, five years after the Willetts established their 10-acre vine-yard and orchard near Spring Lake in Tazewell County. Occupying a restored 1893 building and situated on a street filled with quaint stores, the winery has a charming European ambience.
In addition to traditional red and white wines, Willett’s offers a variety of fruit wines, including Blueberry Chill, Midnight Cherry, Apple Splash and Strawberry Breeze. Willett’s Frontenac was awarded the 2009 Governor’s Cup Gold at the Illinois State Fair and continues to be a customer favorite, along with Willett’s Vignoles, a 2008 INDY International Medalist.
Increasing sales of its popular wines have allowed the winery to add a restaurant and ban-quet room and open a wine store at The Shoppes at Grand Prairie in Peoria.
“Winemaker Bradley Beam and Vineyard Manager Doug Abbott are extremely instrumen-tal in our success,” said owner Cris Willett.
The Ironstone Restaurant features a menu of wine-complementary cuisine prepared by Executive Chef Kevin Roecker. An adjacent ban-quet room is available for wedding receptions and other special events.
Willett’s also hosts Wine & Dine Experience, Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, live music out-doors from June through October, and other sea-sonal celebrations throughout the year. The gift shop features an assortment of wine glasses, wine racks, corkscrews, candles, ceramics, framed photography and gift baskets. Willett’s Wine at Grand Prairie, located at The Shoppes at Grand Prairie in Peoria, carries wine exclusively from Willett’s Winery & Cellar along with wine-related gift items.
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eduCaTion
Peoria’s reputation for outstanding edu-cation dates back over a century to the founding of Peoria Public Schools in the 1800s. Since that time the community
has continued to build on its solid educational foundation with the addition of new and diverse offerings for K–12 students, including the cre-ation of a science and technology-focused char-ter school.
QuEst chartEr acadEmywww.questpeoria.org
The dream of a public charter school in Peoria came true with the opening of Quest Charter Academy in August 2010, giving students and parents who live within Peoria Public School District 150 boundaries the power to choose a public school. Anyone is eligible to apply to this tuition-free, college-preparatory school regardless of race, socioeconomic status or past school performance. Emphasizing a S.T.E.M. curriculum (science, technology, engineering and math), Quest has approximately 300 students in grades five through eight and began a high school program in August 2012. A grade level will be
added each year until Quest Charter Academy ultimately serves 600 students in grades five through 12.
Because Quest is a charter school, students are chosen by a lottery system, allowing all stu-dents an equal chance for acceptance. The result is an incredibly diverse student body represent-ing a cross-section of the many nationalities and socioeconomic backgrounds found throughout the Peoria community.
The rigorous curriculum at Quest includes classes in all subjects, but Quest’s focus on sci-ence, technology, engineering and math, com-bined with innovative teaching methods and academic support programs, ensures students are ready to succeed in high-demand subjects in college. Therefore, all students are held to very high standards and expectations.
In order to meet its goal of 100 percent college acceptance and career success, Quest engages in an ongoing assessment program to monitor how students learn, using the assessment data to create a plan that meets the needs of each student individually. Understanding the importance of parental
involvement, Quest gives parents online access to classroom records and assessment data so they can follow their child’s progress through-out the school year. In addition, there are a number of parent–school relations programs that allow parents to be involved in supporting educational goals.
Quest also develops relationships within the community to create learning experiences that prepare students for life beyond high school. Partnerships with local universities, businesses and community-based organizations allow stu-dents to improve the skills necessary to be suc-cessful in the halls of higher education and in a competitive global job market. There are also opportunities beyond academics for students to stay engaged, including after-school clubs, special interest groups, sports programs and schoolwide events. Quest also provides unique engagement opportunities that students might not get to experience otherwise, such as local, national and international trips.
Academic achievement, leadership devel-opment and college acceptance are the cor-nerstones of Quest Charter Academy, as they
By JA y ne h rK o rnreporT Card: K–12
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eduCaTion
strive to give every student the tools to realize their talents, achieve their goals and fulfill their dreams. The students, teachers, parents and administrators of Quest Charter Academy work together to form a positive, dedicated team committed to results.
PEoria Public schoolswww.psd150.org
Peoria District 150 provides a rich learning environment that centers on students, meet-ing developmental needs, acknowledging indi-vidual differences and honoring all styles of learning. Building on the strengths of each of its 14,000-plus students, the district sets high expectations for all in an atmosphere that is nur-turing and respectful.
The goal at District 150 is to take an inte-grated approach to learning by addressing aca-demic disciplines and basic skills through broad themes, projects and authentic real-life experi-ences. Academics are focused on the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to prepare stu-dents to be members of a rapidly changing and increasingly interconnected world.
“As superintendent, I expect all staff mem-bers to research new ideas, propose methods to improve practices, and explore new and innova-tive ideas while sustaining the key ingredients of proven practices,” said Superintendent Grenita Lathan. “I recognize that if our collective ideas help students learn and achieve, we all benefit.”
To ensure that this happens consistently throughout the organization, Lathan and staff have pledged to follow a newly developed set of “Remarkable Rules” that guide everyone in the district to respect the customer, the learning pro-cess, the district’s finances and the individual dif-ferences of the diverse student body and faculty.
Concordia Lutheran School2000 W. Glen Ave., Peoria 309-691-8921 :: www.concordiapeoria.com
Notre Dame High School of Peoria5105 N. Sheridan Road, Peoria 309-691-8741 :: www.peorianotredame.com
Peoria Academy2711 W. Willow Knowles Drive, Peoria 309-692-7570 :: www.peoriaacademy.org
Peoria Christian School3506 N. California Ave., Peoria 309-686-4500 :: www.peoriachristian.org
Educational rEsourcEs/outrEach
Hult Center for Health Education 5215 N. Knoxville Ave., Peoria 309-692-6650 :: www.hult-health.org
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By JA y ne h rK o rnsTrenGTh & diversiTy: hiGher eduCaTion
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From the long heritage of Bradley Univer-sity to the establishment of new colleges, trade schools and sister campuses of other respected universities in the region, Peoria
provides a variety of higher education paths. These institutions lead students to solid careers and have strengthened Peoria’s diverse labor force with talent developed from start to finish right here at home.
bradlEy univErsity www.bradley.edu
Bradley is a private, independent university in Peoria offering 6,000 students a world-class education linking academic excellence, experi-ential learning and leadership development with an entrepreneurial spirit in more than 100 aca-demic programs. In addition to liberal arts and
sciences, academic programs include business, communications, education, engineering, fine and performing arts, and health sciences. Unique programs include entrepreneurship, hospitality leadership, interactive media, sports communica-tion and physical therapy.
At Bradley, students collaborate with faculty on interesting and innovative research. Outside the classroom, they have opportunities to become involved in more than 240 student organizations and clubs, many of which are dedicated to lead-ership and community service.
Bradley has a reputation for excellence in academics, athletics and career preparation. U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks it a top 10 regional university, and Kiplinger’s Personal Finance has ranked Bradley one of the 100 best values among private universities.
illinois cEntral collEgE www.icc.edu
With four campuses and a virtual campus to choose from, Illinois Central College provides easy access for students who want to start a career or take the first two years of a bachelor’s degree program at a reasonable cost. ICC also serves as a source for job retraining and skill enhancement.
ICC serves the tri-county area plus parts of seven other counties and offers more than 180 programs of study. ICC also offers lifelong learning opportunities through adult community programs and the Professional Development Institute. Children can experience “college” through the summer College for Kids program, and the community can participate in wellness activities at the new ICC CougarPlex Fitness Center.
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midWEst tEchnical institutEwww.midwesttech.edu
Midwest Technical Institute is a fully accredited, year-round technical school offering training in a variety of allied health and mechanical trades and careers. The school offers three campuses to serve the central Illinois region, including locations at Springfield, East Peoria and Moline. Potential students must successfully pass an entrance exam and have a high school diploma or GED to be accepted. All programs are nine months or less, and job placement assistance, along with financial aid assistance, is available to those who qualify.
The MTI campus at 280 High Point Lane in East Peoria offers small class sizes and extensive hands-on programs in the following areas: journey-man welder, HVAC/R–MAR technician, massage therapist, dental assistant, medical assistant, medical coder, basic nursing assistant and pharmacy technician.
univErsity of illinois collEgE of mEdicinE at PEoria (uicomP)www.peoria.medicine.uic.edu
The University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria is one of four campuses that make up the largest public medical school in the country. Located in downtown Peoria, UICOMP enhances the central Illinois region by educating medical students, residents and fellows; performing the latest in research; attracting new physicians; treating more than 90,000 patients each year; and offering important community education programs.
UICOMP educates more than 150 medical students annually in addi-tion to more than 250 graduate medical residents and fellows. Last year, UICOMP began a new psychiatry residency program, only the second in downstate Illinois. In 2013, the college hopes to add fellowships special-izing in cardiology and stroke. Approximately 60 percent of the practic-ing primary-care physicians in the Peoria area were trained in UICOMP programs.
In December 2011, UICOMP officially opened the state-of-the-art Cancer Research Center, a $13 million public–private expansion. The addi-tion will allow internationally known Dr. Jasti Rao to recruit the world’s best investigators and expand ongoing research to help find a cure for cancer.
Construction also is well under way on the Jump Trading Simulation and Education Center, a cutting-edge virtual medical training center. A collaboration of UICOMP and OSF Saint Francis HealthCare, the virtual care center, also dubbed Jump, will replicate all areas of patient care using actual medical equipment alongside high-tech simulation tools. The vision for Jump is to improve health outcomes and lower health care costs through innovative simulation training of medical professionals.
univErsity of illinois sPringfiEld PEoria cEntErwww.uis.edu
The University of Illinois Springfield Peoria Center has been provid-ing educational opportunities for Peoria residents for more than 35 years. Students who want a U of I degree but are place-bound because of work and/or family take advantage of the university’s convenient location in the Perley Building in downtown Peoria.
The AACSB-accredited College of Business and Management and its faculty offer business degrees in the Peoria Center, including the Master of Business Administration, which enrolls the area’s working professionals as a cohort in an accelerated, 21-month weekend program. Undergraduate degrees available at the Peoria Center include accountancy (B.A.) and man-agement (B.A.). The same faculty who teach on the university’s Springfield campus travel to Peoria to teach and mentor Peoria Center students.
U.S. News & World Report has ranked UIS the fourth-best public regional university in the Midwest for the past four years. Kiplinger’s National Rankings of Best College Values 2011–2012 ranks UIS in the top 100, along with the only other Illinois public university to make the list — the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
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There’s a world of wonders just waiting to be explored in Peoria, from an evening of theater or music, to a walk on the wild side at our renowned zoo, to taking in or
joining exciting sports action. Peoria will soon be celebrating the grand opening of a state-of-the-art, Smithsonian-affiliated museum on the riverfront. The following is just a small sample of all there is to see and do.
coming soon: PEoria rivErfront musEum www.peoriariverfrontmuseum.org
Officially opening its doors in October 2012, the Peoria Riverfront Museum will be a powerful cultural presence and enhance Peoria’s reputa-tion as a regional destination. As well as being the only museum in downstate Illinois affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution, the museum will bring a wide array of world-class exhibits, programs and educational experiences to local residents and Peoria visitors.
Two of the most impressive features of the new museum are the giant-screen digital theater and state-of-the-art planetarium. The theater’s digital screen is six stories high and extends beyond the field of vision, so viewers literally experience the big picture. The planetarium’s digital projection system, secured via NASA funding, takes visitors on extraordinary flights through the Milky Way and beyond.
In the museum’s International Features Gallery, visitors will experience some of the Smithsonian’s largest traveling exhibits. Other must-see attractions include The Street, Illinois
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River Encounter, the Fine Arts and Folk Art Gallery, Peak Performance Center, and The Caterpillar Experience.
The museum project is a collaborative effort of Lakeview Museum of Arts & Sciences, Caterpillar, the Peoria Historical Society, the African American Hall of Fame Museum, the Peoria Regional Museum Society, the Heartland Foundation and the Illinois High School Association (IHSA).
laKEviEW musEum of arts & sciEncEswww.lakeview-museum.org
While Lakeview Museum opened its doors in 1965, the seed for the museum was planted in 1954 when 26 art and science groups joined forces to create a facility that would house exhibi-tions and educational programs of interest to the community. Since that time Lakeview Museum of Arts & Sciences has played host to a wide array of world-class exhibits, something that will only be enhanced when it moves into the new Peoria Riverfront Museum.
At the new museum, more than 600 works of art spanning three centuries of Midwestern culture will be on permanent display, including textiles and the Illinois wildfowl decoy collection. The Folk Art Gallery will feature works from the museum’s extensive collection and folk-themed exhibitions. The Fine Arts Gallery will showcase pieces from the Fine Art, Ethnographic and Natural Sciences collections. Other attractions include the Discovery Center, featuring hands-on educational activities for children, and the Illinois River Encounter, an exploration of the region’s natural history.
Lakeview is the largest private museum in downstate Illinois and a great place to experi-ence, firsthand, objects of artistic and scientific nature. It’s also been a center for lifelong learning
and a critical part of the educational structure of the community for decades.
forEst ParK naturE cEntErwww.peoriaparks.org/forest-park-nature-center
Situated in the forested bluffs of the Illinois River, the 540-acre Nature Center and Preserve is open year-round and offers visitors a chance to enjoy seven miles of hiking trails through forested woodland and open prairies. The center includes a natural history museum with a view-ing room for bird-watching.
The Nature Center provides a series of environmental education activities on-site and through the traveling naturalist program for the benefit of local schools, scout troops, garden clubs and civic organizations. The environmental education staff also leads field trips through the forests and prairies for school groups. Popular classes at the center include Birding Tours of the Illinois River, Nature Painting, Kite Making and Building a Recycled Birdhouse. Other public pro-grams include yoga, winter constellation hikes and wildflower walks. Songs from the Woods is a monthly concert series featuring a variety of performances from singer/songwriters and folk musicians.
The Trailhead Nature Store features an exten-sive line of nature-related gifts, including bird-feeders, birdhouses, books, recycled fiber cloth-ing, tree-free note cards, jewelry, hiking sticks, and environmentally friendly bath and body products. All purchases directly support the Nature Center.
PEoria chiEfs www.peoriachiefs.com
The Peoria Chiefs are the Class-A Midwest League affiliate of the Chicago Cubs and have played their home games at Peoria Chiefs Stadium
in downtown Peoria for the last 10 years. With a season running from April to September, the Chiefs celebrated their 30th anniversary in 2012.
Manager Casey Kopitzke has been with the Chiefs for three consecutive seasons and spent 13 seasons in the Chicago Cubs organization as a player, coach and manager. Ron Villone, a veteran of 15 major league seasons, has joined the team as pitching coach. Former players who have gone on to star in the major leagues include Albert Pujols, Greg Maddux, Mark Grace, Joe Girardi, Wally Joyner, Devon White, Rafael Palmeiro, Yadier Molina and Danny Haren. The Chiefs have also been managed by Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg, Jody Davis, Joe Maddon and Jim Tracy.
Throughout the season Chiefs fans enjoy a variety of special events and promotions, includ-ing T-shirt giveaways, discounted tickets, and fun pre- and post-game activities. The FireHouse team store offers a variety of memorabilia and team merchandise. During the season and in the off-season the Chiefs participate in outreach efforts like Game Day Education Days to show their support for the Peoria community. Last year the Chiefs performed over 50 not-for-profit appearances and donated over 3,000 tickets to various organizations in the area.
PEoria rivErmEnwww.rivermen.net
Celebrating 30 years in 2012, the Peoria Rivermen hockey team plays in the American Hockey League as the AAA affiliate of the NHL’s St. Louis Blues. The Rivermen play 38 reg-ular-season home games at Carver Arena and have brought the city three professional championships.
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PARK ADDRESS
Becker Park 3401 W. Woodhill • • • • • •
Bielfeldt Park 5906 N. Galena Road • • • • • •
Bradley Park 1314 Park Road • • • • • • • • • •
Charter Oak Park 5802 N. Orange Prairie Road • • • • • •
Chartwell Park 2828 Willow Lake Road • • •
Columbia Park 300 McClure • •
Creighton Woods Park Off Creighton Terrace
Detweiller Park 8327 N. Galena Road • • • • • • • • • • •
Endres Park 5100 Willard Road • • •
Giant Oak Park 426 W. High Street •
Glen Oak Park 2218 N. Prospect Road • • • • • • • • • •
Grand View Drive Park 3210 Grand View Drive • • • • • •
John H. Gwynn Jr. Park 809 W. John H. Gwynn Jr. Avenue • • • • • • • • •
Lakeview Park 1917 West Lake • • •
Markwoodlands Park 6001 N. Frostwood • • • •
Martin Luther King Jr. Park 825 W. McBean • • • • •
Morton Square Park 901 NE Monroe • • • • •
Northtrail Park 1621 W. Meadowview Drive • • • • • • • • •
Robinson Park 400 W. Mossville Road • • • • •
Schmoeger Park 2400 N. Western • • • •
Sommer Park North 6600 N. Basket Oak Drive • • • • • • • •
Stadium Park 500 E. Lake Avenue • • • •
Trewyn Park 2219 S. Idaho • • • • • •
Vicary Bottoms Dog Park Off Kickapoo Creek Road •
peoria publiC parKswww.peoriaparks.org
The team beat the Chicago Wolves and Rockford IceHogs for the first-ever Illinois Lottery Cup in 2012. Peoria came away with the best overall winning percentage in matches between the three Illinois-based teams. During the Illinois Lottery Cup games fans were treated to special events at many of the games, including the Powerball Toss, which rewarded lucky win-ners in the arena with free Illinois Lottery instant game tickets. Other special promotions for fans are offered throughout the season, including great giveaways and appearances.
Community outreach efforts allow the team and staff members to help many local schools, hospitals and charitable organizations. During the team’s annual Teddy Bear Toss fans toss new and gently used stuffed animals on the ice follow-ing the first Rivermen goal of the game. The toys are collected and donated to the Salvation Army to distribute during the holiday season. Over the past four seasons more than 1,500 bears have been collected.
PEoria PlayErs www.peoriaplayers.org
Entertaining audiences since 1919, Peoria Players is the fourth-longest consecutively
running community theater in the nation. Since the first performance of the one-act play The Maker of Dreams by Oliphant Down, the Players have presented hundreds of plays despite obsta-cles like the Depression, numerous financial difficulties, logistical challenges like the construc-tion of I-74, and a few venue changes. Currently auditions and performances are held at the Peoria Players Theatre at 4300 N. University.
Through lots of hard work and dedication on the part of performers and backstage workers, and thanks to the support of the community, the group performs six shows a year in addition to special seasonal presentations. Featuring a diverse roster of shows including Children of A Lesser God, The King and I, Fiddler on the Roof, and Titanic the Musical, among others, the Players’ goal is to provide culturally inclusive live theatri-cal entertainment for the area and to provide a creative outlet for talented individuals who want to perform and grow in an artistically challenging environment. Summer Youth Theatre, open to ages 14 through 20, gives young people inter-ested in learning more about acting and stage crafts a chance to participate in plays like West Side Story and The Wedding Singer.
PEoria symPhony orchEstrawww.peoriasymphony.org
The Peoria Symphony Orchestra is one of the oldest symphony orchestras in the United States. Founded in 1897 as the Bradley Symphony Orchestra, it was organized under the auspices of the Bradley Institute and directed by founder Harold Plowe. In 1916 the orchestra incorpo-rated and was renamed the Peoria Symphony Orchestra. Today the group performs a classi-cal subscription series, pops concerts and con-certs for area students. Local and internationally renowned guest soloists are frequently featured, and free pre-concert lectures are held at the Peoria Civic Center prior to classical subscription concerts. The symphony’s education and out-reach efforts throughout central Illinois include youth concerts reaching over 5,000 students and an annual Young Artist Competition for grade school and high school musicians. The winner receives an academic scholarship and the opportunity to perform as soloist at the Youth Concerts.
Conductor George Edward Stelluto leads the symphony in exciting performances of pieces ranging from Baroque classics to present-day favorites. He is in demand around the world as a
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guest conductor, and his broad musical interests and abilities are sought after by a variety of artis-tic organizations.
PEoria Zoo at glEn oaK ParK www.peoriazoo.org
The Peoria Zoo has been connecting people and animals since it first opened in 1955. In 2009 the zoo doubled in size with the addition of the Africa! exhibit and continues to grow today with a new entry complex.
Within the zoo’s 14 acres are over 90 species, from Aldabra tortoises to zebras and from insects to sea lions, giving people up-close access to the amazing diversity of the animal kingdom. The zoo is open year-round, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and hosts a variety of special events and educational programs of interest to all ages. Daily keeper chats and animal shows in the summer enhance the guest experience. While enjoying a snack or lunch in the Zambezi River Lodge visitors can view the rhinos and giraffes as they roam under the watchful eyes of the lions. In the evening, the lodge can accommodate up to 200 guests for receptions, birthday parties and other special occasions.
The Junior League of Peoria and the Peoria Zoological Society have joined forces with the Peoria Park District to build the Peoria PlayHouse Children’s Museum and further expand the Peoria Zoo to create a daylong destination for learn-ing through play. Designed for children ages 0 through 8, the PlayHouse will feature six themed exhibit areas offering hands-on learning for chil-dren of all abilities. Galleries created by designers and education experts will meet Illinois Early Learning Standards, and special programs and traveling exhibits will encourage repeat visits.
rivErPlEx rEcrEation & WEllnEss cEntErwww.riverplex.org
A joint project between Peoria Park District and OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, this 118,000-square-foot facility features a state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor aquatic park and multi-purpose arena in the heart of downtown Peoria. The fitness center, boasting a view of the Illinois River, includes over 200 pieces of pre-mium equipment including treadmills, recum-bent bikes, rowers, free weights and more. The AquaPlex offers four different pools featuring lap swimming, lessons, a water slide, therapy pool
and other water features designed for all ages and abilities.
RiverPlex also offers a running and walking track and over 150 group classes a week, free with membership. Every new member is enrolled in the Healthy Start Program, a one-hour course designed to educate members on the basics of healthy eating, weight loss and goal setting. Personal trainers assist members in developing appropriate training programs and achieving their fitness goals. Wellness services provided through OSF Saint Francis include surgical and nonsurgical weight-loss programs, medical exer-cise programs, health screenings, and physical rehabilitation.
The XR Game Zone uses video game technol-ogy to engage participants in physical activities that are both challenging and fun. Other recre-ational activities include adult sports leagues.
WhEEls o’ timE musEumhttp://wheelsotime.org
Initiated in 1979 by two local car collec-tors and opened in 1983, this eclectic museum features a variety of exhibits depicting life in the Peoria area 50 to 100 years ago.
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The museum’s indoor collection, now span-ning four spacious buildings, includes antique cars, fire trucks, farm tractors, Caterpillar machin-ery, model airplanes, clocks, musical devices, toys, vintage clothing and tools. Also on display are a miniature circus; Lionel train layouts; a cal-liope; a full-size, animatronic barbershop quartet (featuring some famous presidential faces); and vintage radio station WMBD.
Outdoor displays feature a steam train, gazebo and working windmill. Automobiles in the collection include the Packard, Ford Model T, Peoria-built Glide, Nash Metropolitan, Kissell, Briscoe, Moline-built Velie, Austin Healey and many other vehicles from the 1910s to 1980s.
The mission of the museum is to entertain and educate while providing a facility where people of all ages can see, hear and sometimes touch items representing transportation, industry,
farm and home life, business, and entertainment from times past. Located at 1710 W. Woodside Drive, the museum is open from noon to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday, May through October.
World on WhEEls PEoriawww.worldonwheelspeoria.com
World On Wheels Segway Tours and Bike Rides offers Peoria’s only Segway tour and Quadracycle bike rental experience. Fun Quadracycle bike rides along the Peoria RiverFront last for 30 minutes. Narrated Segway tours range from 30 minutes to two hours and feature informative historical and present-day tidbits, unique and fascinating stories, interesting photo ops, and attentive service from experienced guides.
The Premier Segway Tour explores the revital-ization of the downtown area and glides past the
RiverFront, featuring glimpses of nature, history, art and beauty. The Past Glories Tour offers a ride through Peoria’s historic district, including sights like Bradley University and buildings of architec-tural interest. Rentals are available for business outings, corporate team building, neighborhood festivals, birthday parties, family reunions and other special events.
The Segway, invented by Dean Kamen and introduced to the public in 2001, is a self-balancing electric vehicle that uses gyroscopic sensors in the base to stay upright. Users lean to go forward or back and turn by using a handle-bar. Quadracycles have four wheels instead of two and are available in two-seat and four-seat models. Using side-by-side gearing, they are easy to handle, stable, comfortable and fun.
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healTh Care
Methodist Medical Center includes a 330-bed facility with almost 600 board-certified physicians and Methodist North, a state-of-the-art out-patient and imaging center. Founded in 1900, Methodist today is a senior affiliate of Iowa Health System, the nation’s fifth-largest nonde-
nominational health system, with hospitals and physician offices throughout Iowa and Illinois.
Methodist’s commitment to quality has resulted in numerous awards and national recognition. It was named one of “America’s Best Hospitals” for 2009–2010 by U.S. News & World Report, and was in the Top 10 for nursing care and pain management. Methodist has twice been named one of the 100 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals in the United States. It was also the first downstate hospital to be awarded Magnet designation for excellence in nursing services, the nation’s highest honor in patient care.
meThodisT mediCal CenTerMyMethodist.net By ro s e m A ry st u t t l e
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healTh Care
The Methodist Emergency and Trauma Center is ready for your serious medical emergencies. Heart attack patients are flown there by helicopter from throughout the region. Methodist is also a Certified Primary Stroke Center, signifying that Methodist stroke care meets the highest national standards. Methodist is the only trauma center in the region with a physician-staffed triage to reduce wait times. And the Illinois Department of Public Health recognizes Methodist as an Emergency Department Approved for Pediatrics, which certi-fies that Methodist has the equipment and specially trained staff to care for children.
A leader in information technology, Methodist is among fewer than 10 percent of hospitals nation-wide to fully implement Computerized Physician Order Entry and electronic medical records. Its
physician portal gives doctors immediate access to lab test and digital imaging results so treatment can begin sooner. And Methodist’s award-winning website, MyMethodist.net, makes it easy for visitors to find a doctor, get updated ER wait times, register for appointments, send flowers and e-cards to loved ones, review quality data, and more.
Oncology services include advanced TomoTherapy radiation for targeted cancer treat-ment and the area’s only autologous bone marrow transplant program. State-of-the-art diagnostic ser-vices include the latest 3T MRI system, an advanced PET/CT scanner that helps pinpoint cancer at the very earliest stage, and low-radiation 64-slice CT scanners. Methodist has all-digital mammography, including the only mobile unit in Illinois.
Methodist’s proactive approach to health and wellness includes the Methodist Wellmobile, bringing free health screenings to people wher-ever they work or play. Methodist also features the area’s most comprehensive behavioral health services and is home to a psychiatric residency program in partnership with the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria. Other services include sophisticated robotic surgery, a comprehensive birthing center with Level II neonatal nursery, pediatric services, wound care center with advanced hyperbaric oxygen therapy, a comprehensive Spine and Pain Center, and the area’s most experienced sleep center.
Methodist Medical Group, a network of pri-mary care and specialty physicians, has offices located throughout central Illinois, including con-venient Methodist MedPointe walk-in clinics. All MMG offices feature electronic medical records and MyMethodist eHealth for secure online communi-cation with your physician, including convenient Web visits and automatic access to lab results.
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osf sainT franCis mediCal CenTer
OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, licensed for 616 beds and with a medical staff of more than 900 physicians, is one of the largest medical centers in the state. A ma-
jor teaching affiliate of the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria (UICOMP), OSF Saint Francis is the area’s only Level I trauma center, the highest level designated in trauma care. It serves as the resource hospital for emer-gency medical services for north-central Illinois. OSF Saint Francis and Children’s Hospital of Illinois have enjoyed Magnet status for excel-lence in nursing care since 2004.
OSF Saint Francis Medical Center completed a $280 million expansion in 2010. The project — which brings all Children’s Hospital inpatient units under one roof — is also home to a new adult heart unit, cardiac catheterization labs, surgery suites, outpatient diagnostics and the emergency department. The 55-bed emergency department is a state-of-the-art facility focused on patient privacy and safety. Features include a pod design, a key card security system and the capacity for 20 additional surge beds in the event of a disaster.
OSF Saint Francis Heart Hospital provides comprehensive, state-of-the-art services, from diagnostic testing to cardiovascular interventions and surgery. More than 35 cardiac specialists and subspecialists are on the Heart Hospital team. The Heart Hospital is Joint Commission-certified for both heart attack care and heart failure. The Heart 777 Program, a regional partnership and response team for heart attack victims, provides the fastest heart attack response time in the region and has saved many lives.
OSF Saint Francis offers five outpatient cen-ters, three PromptCare facilities and a com-munity clinic. ASK OSF, a 24-hour call center, provides medical advice, class registration and physician referral.
Under construction on the OSF Saint Francis campus is the Jump Trading Simulation and Education Center, a collaboration between OSF HealthCare and UICOMP. The center will be used for education, credentialing, research and performance improvement for both organiza-tions, their regional affiliates, and health care and educational providers from across the country, as well as the commercial health care industry. The cutting-edge facility is slated to open in the spring of 2013.
childrEn’s hosPital of illinois www.childrenshospitalofil.org
Children’s Hospital of Illinois is a 127-bed hospital housed on the OSF Saint Francis Medical Center campus. More than 100 pediatric special-ists representing more than 30 subspecialties practice in the hospital. It’s the first pediatric critical care hospital in the state and serves as the primary pediatric teaching facility for UICOMP.
Children’s Hospital is the area’s Regional Perinatal Center, with central Illinois’ only Level III+ neonatal intensive care unit and Level I trauma center. The Congenital Heart Center at Children’s Hospital is one of the Midwest’s top pediatric programs, recently desig-nated as one of only 47 programs worldwide to provide superior heart lung bypass care.
Children’s Hospital operates the Pediatric Surgery Center, which brings together 10 surgical
specialties, including the only pediatric neuro-surgeon in Illinois outside of Chicago. Children’s Hospital is also home to the only Pediatric Diabetes Resource Center in downstate Illinois. Children’s Hospital has been ranked in the top 1 percent of neonatal intensive care units nation-ally and is a recent recipient of the National Cystic Fibrosis Quality Care Award.
thE illinois nEurological institutE www.ini.org
Located on the campus of OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, the Illinois Neurological Institute (INI) is one of the most comprehensive neurosci-ence centers in the Midwest and includes over 60 neurological experts dedicated to caring for every aspect of the brain, spine and nerves.
The INI offers multidisciplinary neurological, neurosurgical and rehabilitative care for adults and children. Designated a Level 1 trauma cen-ter and Primary Stroke Center, the institute has highly trained physicians prepared to respond to even the most complex neurological problems. The team has access to state-of-the-art technol-ogy, allowing them to rapidly diagnose and treat disorders of the brain and spine.
Education and research is a vital part of the INI’s mission. As a teaching institution, the INI serves medical students, residents and fellows, all of whom are actively involved in all aspects of patient care. Research is also a major compo-nent of INI’s commitment to the advancement of neurological care, and patients may be asked to participate in clinical trials.
By sh e l l i dA n K o f fwww.osfsaintfrancis.org
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Proctor Hospital provides unmatched health care experiences … every day. A 165-bed all-private-room hospital, Proctor Hospital is home to some of the most exciting tech-
nology, including the latest in digital diagnostic and interventional imaging, from cardiovascular to mammography services. Proctor is the first hospital in the Midwest to use newly available visualization tools, helping to make its new en-dovascular suite unlike any other in the state.
Proctor Hospital is recognized as a Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association Blue Distinction Center for Knee and Hip ReplacementSM. Proctor is one of 16 hospitals in Illinois, and the only hospital in the Peoria area, with this recogni-tion. Orthopedic services at Proctor include total joint replacement surgery, a comprehen-sive pre-operative education program, the area’s most experienced surgical teams, and an on-site Skilled Nursing Center for extended care and rehabilitation, with both home care and medical equipment services available.
www.proctor.org and visit us on Facebook
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Proctor Hospital has a comprehensive cardio-vascular program that includes open-heart sur-gery performed in one of the most sophisticated cardiac surgical suites in downstate Illinois. The hospital is home to the area’s first hospital-based cardiac rehabilitation program in the area.
When minutes matter, the Emergency Department provides a full spectrum of care for critically ill and injured patients in a safe and comfortable environment. The Emergency Department includes an expanded Chest Pain Center, patient observation rooms, rooms spe-cially designed for pediatric patients, a trauma room and a biohazard/decontamination room.
In 2012 Proctor Hospital was named as an EMS System Resource Hospital.
Patient centered-care and patient safety are of the highest priority at Proctor Hospital. That’s why, in 2010, the hospital became a Planetree affiliate. Since its founding in 1978, Planetree has been a pioneer in personalizing, humanizing and demystifying the health care experience for patients and their families.
Patient safety is also a driving force behind Proctor eCare — a major component of which is the electronic health record of a patient’s health history.
The Illinois Institute for Addiction Recovery, a leader in addiction treatment, is a comprehensive
hospital-based inpatient/outpatient treatment facility located on the campus of Proctor Hospital, with offices near Bloomington, Springfield, Chicago and the Quad Cities.
Other specialized facilities and programs include the Advanced Wound Center, Sleep Disorders Center, Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center and Family Maternity Center.
Proctor First Care and Proctor Medical Group reach out into area neighborhoods and rural communities, providing physician-based urgent care and medical care services. Proctor First Care also provides comprehensive occupational health services for area employers.
There is a family in need. Their child is born with a life-threatening condition. Their mother is diagnosed with cancer. Their son is injured in a car accident. Their loved one is
in Peoria receiving critical treatment, and they need to be there. And for all of them, 365 days a year, the door is open at Family House, Peoria’s only hospital hospitality house.
In the early 1980s, Peoria’s Junior League recognized a need. As the city’s medical services expanded, more and more families were coming to the city for the treatment they needed — some for months at a time. The costs of an extended hotel stay can be devastating to families already suffering the expense and stress of a critical illness. The Junior League wanted to offer these families not only housing, but a home — with all of the welcome and comfort that word implies.
Family House began in 1982 as a collab-orative project between the Junior League, OSF
St. Francis, Methodist Medical Center and Proctor Hospital. The partnership purchased and renovated a century-old, 9,000-square-foot house. Opened in June 1985, the lovely red-brick mansion welcomed some 28,000 guests. Some stayed for a few days; some for weeks, even months. Because most of the guests could not afford the cost of an extended hotel stay, Family House became an affordable home away from home during a difficult time.
Though beautiful, the house had its drawbacks: It lacked contemporary features and wasn’t ideal for guests with limited mobility. So in 2010, in con-junction with its 25th anniversary, Family House broke ground on a new, 14,500-square-foot home at 1339 E. Nebraska Avenue. Opened in 2011, the new Family House features:
Twenty guest rooms, each with a private bath, •television, phone and heating/cooling units.Complete accessibility, including an elevator.•
Two kitchens for guest use. •A dining room that can accommodate 20 and •that features Wi-Fi for guests’ email and medical research needs.Parlor, multipurpose room and lounge areas •(both inside and outside).Day services that allow people staying in hos-•pital waiting rooms to shower, launder clothing and enjoy a home-cooked meal.Dedicated guest laundry facilities.•A per-night cost of just $39 per room.•
A not-for-profit organization, Family House relies on in-kind donations and its room charge to cover the costs of operating the home with a 24-hour paid staff. For more information on all Family House has to offer and to find out how you can help, visit www.familyhousepeoria.org or call 309-685-5300.
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A diagnosis of cancer can be overwhelming, full of fear and uncertainty. Compounding this for many is the necessity of traveling to large urban centers for treatment. Fortu-
nately for residents of the Greater Peoria area, the very best in state-of-the-art cancer and blood dis-orders diagnosis, treatment and research is right here, at Illinois CancerCare.
Oncology Hematology Associates of Central Illinois was founded in 1977 by Dr. Stephen A. Cullinan, who had earned his oncology fellow-ship at the Mayo Clinic. Cullinan soon began offering outreach clinics in Pekin, Bloomington and Pontiac. Now known as Illinois CancerCare, today the facility operates 13 clinic locations and employs 17 physicians, 15 Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs) and over 55 nurses — the majority certified as OCNs (Oncology Certified Nurses).
The war on cancer is conducted on many fronts, and one of the most vital is ongoing research. With the view that the most significant and successful research into cancer treatment can be conducted at the community level, by 1978 Dr. Cullinan had established a research relation-ship with Mayo Clinic called the North Central Cancer Treatment Group (NCCTG). That com-mitment to research continues today. More than 8,500 Illinois CancerCare patients have par-ticipated in voluntary research studies through the Illinois Oncology Research Association and Illinois CancerCare, with approximately 120 clinical cancer research trials being conducted at any given time. In 2007, the American Society of Clinical Oncology recognized Illinois CancerCare among the top 10 community research centers in the nation with its Clinical Trials Participation Award.
Illinois CancerCare patients will find a full range of diagnosis, treatment and support ser-vices, including X-ray and CT scanning, labora-tory, radiation oncology, chemotherapy, bone marrow transplant, surgery, and pharmacy. Every patient receives a personalized treatment regimen, and the staff is dedicated to providing comprehensive care, which includes education, healthy living and support services.
When you’re in one of the most important fights of your life, you want the best team on your side. And that team is right here, at Illinois CancerCare.
illinois CanCerCare By lA u rA Wi l c o x e n
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Shopping is an experience in Peoria, where you’ll find everything from lifestyle centers and malls with multiple stores and restau-rants to specialty boutiques and locally
owned shops catering to every need.
thE shoPPEs at grand PrairiE5201 W. War Memorial Drive 309-862-3761 :: www.shoppesatgrandprairie.com
The Shoppes at Grand Prairie is an open-air lifestyle center visited by more than 5 million peo-ple annually. Offering more than 70 specialty stores and restaurants, the center features an inviting courtyard and pedestrian promenade landscaped with shade trees, native shrubs and seasonal flow-ers. Other amenities include water features, a park-like seating, street lamps and children’s play areas.
Shoppers may choose from a wide variety of stores featuring everything from apparel and accessories to home décor and sporting goods. There are plenty of tempting eateries to satisfy
any craving. Stop in for a quick bite at a fast casual spot or enjoy a relaxing lunch or dinner at one of the full-service restaurants. Many visitors enjoy a fun day of shopping and dining followed by a movie at the cinema.
Signature events like Pampered on the Prairie draw thousands of people in a single day. This annual May event features store savings and discounts, live music, a fashion show, mini mani-cures and mini massages, plus much more.
The Shoppes at Grand Prairie also features several wonderful animal sculptures by world-renowned artist Lonnie Stewart. A life-size African lion graces the center court area in honor of the Peoria Zoo. Playful black bear cubs pay tribute to animals once native to central Illinois, and a bald eagle sculpture celebrates the return of these majestic birds to the bluffs along the Illinois River.
Equipped to Play, sponsored by Caterpillar Inc., is a fun playground featuring kid-sized trac-tors, loaders and trucks. The family-friendly area
provides a place where children of all ages can become builders for a day and enjoy digging and playing with the kid-safe equipment.
The Peoria Holocaust Memorial is a unique display containing 11 million buttons, each representing a life lost during the Holocaust. Informational kiosks provide a historical timeline with testimonials from survivors and liberators.
jonEs bros. PlaZa7705 N. Grand Prairie Drive 309-692-3228 :: www.jonesbros.com
This sleek shopping plaza was the brainchild of Bob Woolsey and Betty Schlacter, owners of Jones Bros. Jewelers, who were looking for a new location in 2005. In addition to providing larger quarters for the jewelry store, which has served central Illinois since 1939, the 10,000-square-foot center offered an opportunity for Woolsey to lease space to other tenants, including spa and salon, optical, and telecommunications services.
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Jones Bros. offers an extensive selection of bridal jewelry, fashion jewelry from the latest designers, loose diamonds of every shape and carat, and a collection of fine Swiss watches. The store provides appraisals, repair service and expert advice for those seeking help in choosing the perfect jewelry piece.
“The level of service we offer our customers is altogether different than what you’ll find in other jewelry stores,” explained Woolsey.
Giving back to the community has always been a Jones Bros. tradition. The store supports both local and international charities including The Children’s Hospital of Illinois, WCBU Public Radio and Wildlife Prairie Park. Jones Bros. is also proud to offer the Mille Collines collec-tion. The timeless, handmade designs of Mille Collines reflect Africa’s strength and sensibility, with income providing support for families and growth for communities by creating more jobs.
junction city5901 N. Prospect Road 309-740-0808 www.newjunctioncity.com www.facebook.com/JunctionCityShoppingCenter
Peoria’s original shopping destination, located on the corner of Knoxville Avenue and Prospect Road, has been a landmark since 1956. The old-fashioned water tower often serves as a backdrop
for a variety of special events held at the center, including Artists on the Boardwalk, Walk On Wednesdays, First Fridays, Paws for a Cause Dog Show and the Holiday Walk, which offers carriage rides, carolers, photos with Santa and more.
The concept for the center has always been to offer a collection of locally owned, quality boutiques in one convenient setting. Today the center continues to feature one-of-a-kind shops that offer unique items not often found in other retail districts. Shoppers enjoy a diverse selection of gifts and home décor shops, clothing bou-tiques, fine art, fitness centers, hair salons, and spas. Restaurant choices range from casual to fine dining and gourmet takeout.
For over 50 years Junction City has offered Peoria residents and visitors an enjoyable mix of shops, restaurants and services in a historic setting. Combining homespun ambience with friendly and personal service, it’s a fun place to shop or dine with a calendar of special events to enjoy all year.
mEtro cEntrE4700 N. University Street at W. Glen Avenue 309-692-6690 :: www.shopmetrocentre.com
A shopping destination in Peoria for more than 30 years, the open-air Metro Centre offers a variety of apparel and accessories stores along with specialty shops, health and beauty providers, restaurants,
and food and wine shops. Other services include insurance agencies, a bank, a travel agency and a cell phone provider. The family-friendly center is known for its locally owned and operated stores and a strong commitment to customer service. The merchants at Metro Centre can help you find the right item for any occasion, whether you are treat-ing yourself or shopping for a unique gift.
Foodies have an abundance of choices, from chocolates, wine and spirits to specialty meats, deli favorites, bakery goods and a natural foods grocery. Restaurants cater to a variety of tastes, from burgers and barbecue to gourmet sand-wiches and sushi. Throughout the year Metro Centre hosts popular events that include side-walk sales, the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, a Fall Festival, Small Business Saturday and a Holiday Open House.
The Peoria Farmers Market at Metro Centre offers the largest selection of homegrown produce in town and is the longest-running farmers mar-ket in the region. The inventory changes weekly, and shoppers can always count on the best of the season’s harvest, including homegrown and organic vegetables, fruits and plants and a variety of the freshest produce from local farms. Metro Centre contributes a portion of Farmers Market proceeds to the Heart of Illinois Harvest, a local food rescue program.
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homes & neiGhborhoods
Finding a home in Peoria is easy, whether you prefer the quiet of an established, tree-lined family neighborhood or the faster pulse and activity of a downtown urban loft. Two of the many selections in Peo-ria highlight the diversity available here. While studies in contrast in
some ways, the Knolls and downtown Peoria both offer some of the best living on offer here.
thE KnollsLocated in central Peoria, the Knolls is a distinctive neighborhood,
established in 1928 as Peoria’s first restricted, residential park. The found-ers selected the location because it was central to recreational areas and Peoria’s business district. The Knolls is well known for its quiet, tree-lined streets, beautiful and unique homes, and a sense of community among its neighbors. Various small parks are scattered throughout the neighborhood, enhancing its family-friendly attributes. With its focus on parks and out-door space, the Knolls has a strong neighborhood and community fabric linking its residents together.
That sense of community extends to holidays and festivities, which serve as another reason to visit with neighbors. Matt Smutz, president of the Knolls Homeowners Association, says that each year the Knolls hosts a July 4th parade and party, a Halloween parade and party, and a fall patio party.
“Our fall patio party is great,” he said. “Generous neighbors open their homes and yards to other neighbors who make their way throughout the neighborhood. We then get to meet and enjoy the fellowship of old friends and new acquaintances.”
According to Smutz, each home in the Knolls is unique in its design, but still shares the same incredible craftsmanship and attention to detail. This level of care and attention extends to all landscaping, gardening and outdoor living design. Many of the homes in the neighborhood blend brick, stone and wood design on the exterior, while interiors feature unusual and significant design, handsome woodwork, and quality craftsmanship. You can find all varieties of price ranges of homes in the Knolls, ranging from the very affordable — around $150,000 — to more exclusive homes in excess of $500,000.
Smutz is committed to the neighborhood even beyond his role as the Homeowners Association president.
“It’s a great place to raise a family,” he said. “Succeeding family genera-tions often relocate back to the neighborhood. In over 20 years of marriage and family life, we have owned three homes, all in the Knolls and the sur-rounding area. It is truly unlike any other neighborhood in Peoria.”
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homes & neiGhborhoods
doWntoWn PEoriaPeoria’s downtown area holds promise for
locals and relocators alike, whether they’re look-ing for a new home or a great place to open a business.
Options for living in downtown Peoria have never been better, including modern high-rise apartments and trendy residential spots in mixed-use developments. Developers have reconfigured many of the 1900s downtown manufacturing and warehouse buildings into modern loft apart-ments and condominiums, creating attractive spaces with unique styling. Offering stunning views of the Illinois River and a host of ameni-ties, these residences range anywhere from 650 to 3,500 square feet and provide easy access to the shops, businesses and entertainment of the Riverfront scene.
Originally a manufacturing facility from the early 1900s, The Lofts at Waterfront Place, for-merly known as the Illinois Antique Center, is an ideal location offering grand views of the Illinois River. The building boasts an elegant lobby, a gym, a roof deck and high-speed Internet, while
the lofts feature explosed brick, oversized win-dows and stainless appliances.
Mixed-use developments are also on the rise. 401 Water Street is a premier location sur-rounded by unique restaurants, lively events, sports venues and a riverfront trail. The residen-tial area houses loft-style, luxury condos boasting high ceilings, abundant windows, exposed brick walls and ductwork, while the commercial area has nearly 20 unique businesses. The Maxam Building is located at 316 SW Washington Street right across from the Riverfront Museum. The Maxam features not only luxury loft living, but is also home to dining and entertainment and cutting-edge businesses, including architectural research and design and an up-and-coming software firm.
Also under way downtown is a hotel rede-velopment project, which includes a renovation of the Pere Marquette and a new Courtyard Marriott, with the hotels to be connected to the Peoria Civic Center via an elevated walkway over Fulton.
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TWo hundred years & CounTinG
The defining moments of Peoria’s history are intertwined with America’s finest, and darkest, hours.
Inhabited by the French and Indians until they were driven out by American forces during the War of 1812, Peoria became the site of Fort Clark in 1813 and then saw the arrival of American pioneers. The growing settlement was incorporated as a town in 1835 and then as a city in 1845.
Residents of the city were sharply divided over the issue of slavery during Abraham Lincoln’s vis-its during the 1850s, his rise to the presidency,
and the coming of the Civil War in the years that followed. Still, the late 1800s were a time of prosperity for Peoria, and by the end of the 19th century the city had grown rich with money from the flourishing whiskey and cattle indus-tries. So prosperous and grand was the city that, during his visit in 1910, Theodore Roosevelt declared that Peoria’s Grandview Drive was “the world’s most beautiful drive.”
Just one year later, in 1911, the Peoria Association of Commerce was established. Now known as the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, the Chamber has played a part in tremendous changes in the community over these past 100 years.
Despite the 1917 passage of the 18th Amend-ment, which shut down the large-scale distilleries so important to the city’s economy, Peoria con-tinued to prosper during the “Roaring ’20s.” The distilleries may have been gone, but many in the region still fancied an occasional drink, and the city gained a “wide open town” reputation rival-ing that of Chicago.
The loss of the above-board whiskey industry was offset in 1925 by the arrival of Caterpillar. Building on a base of earlier farm implement manufacturers, the company helped transform Peoria from the “Whiskey Capital of the World” to the “Earth-Moving Capital of the World.” Some of the current landmarks built during the 1920s include the Madison Theatre, the Hotel Pere Marquette, and the Scottish Rite Cathedral.
Peoria had it all in those days, including air mail delivered by a soon-to-be-famous pilot named Charles Lindbergh. But in the late 1920s, air traffic outgrew the small air strips once used by Lindbergh and his colleagues. The Peoria Association of Commerce formed a committee to create a new airport in 1930. The new Peoria airport was financed by the business commu-nity and officially opened in 1932. Recently the General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport, renamed for a military hero born in Peoria, opened a new terminal.
Technology and know-how still continued to direct growth in the 1940s. During World War II, the USDA Regional Lab in Peoria was the first to successfully develop the process for mass-production of penicillin — a breakthrough with world-changing implications. The USDA Agricultural Research Center is still located in the city today.
After the war, returning veterans and civic women reformed city government and cleaned up the town to reverse its rough-and-tumble reputation. Peoria earned a 1953 All-America City award for civic renewal and a 1966 award for downtown revitalization. A third All-America City award was earned in 1989 for regaining economic stability, aided by the Chamber of Commerce’s “Leave the Lights On” campaign during the 1980s recession.
Source: Peoria Journal Star: www.pjstar.com/news/tricounty/x1231755140/Peoria-in-flight
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peoria Chamber: 100+ years of serviCe
hisTory & heriTaGe
The Peoria community has a long history of regional collaboration
to achieve prosperity, and for the past century, the Peoria Area
Chamber of Commerce has been proud to play a vital role in the
development and advancement of the city. Established in 1911 as
the Peoria Association of Commerce, the Chamber has initiated and
supported a number of initiatives that have helped make the city
what it is today.
The Chamber celebrated its Centennial in 2011. The organization
continues to be a leading voice for business in the region, offering
valuable benefits to members and championing causes that enhance
both the business environment and the quality of life in the Peoria
area. Networking opportunities, advocacy of business-friendly public
policies, business education opportunities, promotion of members,
and collaboration with other local and regional organizations are
just a few of the ways that the Chamber is continuing to strengthen
Peoria as a whole. The Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce extends
its thanks to the businesses of Peoria for a great first century and
looks forward to leading the way for business growth as they begin
their next 100 years of service in the community.
PEORIA AREA CHAMBER HIGHLIGHTS
• Spearheaded local efforts of the sale of Liberty Bonds, War Gardens and War Relief during World War I.
• Supported Peoria Players, promoted good roads, supported $100 million State Bond Issue in 1923.
• Initiated and supported City Plan Commission in 1924.
• Initiated the creation of the General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport in the 1930s, including raising $77,000 for the purchase of 200 acres for the facility.
• In 1937, worked to establish the Rock Island Rocket train service, connecting Peoria and Chicago.
• Assisted in establishment of Coast Guard Base and helped Bradley to qualify for an air training program in 1943.
• Air National Guard established largely through the efforts of Chamber member Art Szold in 1946. The economic impact on the region has been significant since its inception
• In 1952, in conjunction with a number of other local organizations, helped facilitate the adoption of council-manager form of city government.
• Supported a school bond referendum for elementary schools for $5.8 million in 1958.
• Sponsored the Leave the Lights On campaign during the recession of the 1980s.
• Played an important role in saving the 182nd Airlift Wing of the Illinois Air National Guard from closing in 2003.
• Facilitated the creation of the Quest Charter Academy, opened in 2010.
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siTes & siGhTs of The hisToriCal soCieTy
The Peoria Historical Society (PHS) preserves the unique history of the Central Illinois River Valley. The PHS maintains and operates historic attrac-tions and tours that highlight tangible reminders of the region’s rich history. Although the society’s house museums and trolleys have scheduled hours, custom tours with certified guides are also available by special arrangement; contact the PHS office at 309-674-1921.
The following information has been provided by the Peoria Historical Society. For more information on all the PHS has to offer, visit them online at www.peoriahistoricalsociety.org and on Facebook.
John C. Flanagan House Museum942 NE Glen Oak Avenue, Peoria Admission: $7 adults; $3 children ages 5–12
Built in 1837 on Peoria’s east bluff by Judge John C. Flanagan, this is the oldest standing house in Peoria. This American Federal-style home offers a spectacular view of the Illinois River Valley. Collections of antique glass, china, furniture, toys, quilts, vintage clothing and Peoriana are displayed.
Pettengill-Morron House Museum1212 W. Moss Avenue, Peoria Admission: $7 adults; $3 children ages 5–12
The Pettengill-Morron House was built by Moses Pettengill in 1868 in the Second Empire style. The house has 11 rooms and contains a unique collection of objects from several generations of a Peoria family. In 1900 a Colonial Revival porch and porte-cochere were added, giving the home a grand Victorian appearance.
Trolley ToursThe Peoria Historical Society’s seasonal trolley tours are a great way to experience the region’s varied and rich heritage. The cost is $10 per ticket plus $1 paid to the trolley driver; seniors 65 and older ride free with proof of age and regular ticket purchase. Check out the PHS website for information on self-guided audio walking tours.
Old Peoria and the JudgeWhen: Every Friday in June, 10:30 a.m. (1.5 hours) Departs: Kelleher’s Irish Pub, 619 SW Water Street, Peoria Tickets: 309-673-6000
Travel through the earliest sections of downtown and on to Peoria’s Northside. Discover facts about Peoria’s founding father, French explorer Henri de Tonti, who established a fort in 1691, the first European settlement in Illinois. You’ll see a unique sculptor’s
bungalow and hear the story of Peoria’s Joe Kennedy connection. The tour includes a short visit to Peoria’s oldest standing residence: the Flanagan House Museum.
River CityWhen: Every Thursday, June through October, 10:30 a.m.; every Saturday in June, July and August, 1 p.m. (1.5 hours) Departs: Harp & Thistle, 4605 N. Prospect Road, Peoria Heights Tickets: 309-688-5668
The Native Americans and the French; the whiskey and earthmoving capital of the world; the grand mansions and Grandview Drive — the River City Tour has it all. Beginning in Peoria Heights, the tour proceeds down Grandview Drive through the Averyville area to downtown Peoria, then on to High Street and Moss Avenue before circling back to Glen Oak Avenue on the return to the Heights. Admire stately homes and enjoy the renowned grand view of the Illinois River during this unforgettable tour, beautiful during all seasons.
Grandview Drive and Springdale CemeteryWhen: Every Saturday, June through October, 10:30 a.m. (1.5 hours) Departs: Harp & Thistle, 4605 N. Prospect Road, Peoria Heights Tickets: 309-688-5668
Winding along Grandview Drive, view the elegant homes of prosperous merchants, landowners and professionals. See the Illinois River from the best vantage point in Illinois. Then visit Springdale Cemetery, the oldest chartered cemetery in Illinois. Hervey Lightner designed this 270-acre, tree-studded cemetery with miles of twisting roads in 1855. You will hear about the founding fathers and mothers of Peoria.
All-America CityWhen: Every Friday in July and September, 10:30 a.m. (1.5 hours) Departs: Kelleher’s Irish Pub, 619 SW Water Street, Peoria Tickets: 309-673-6000
Follow Peoria’s history from the naughty — the Roaring ’20s, the gambling, the gangsters — to the nice — Peoria’s three All-America City Awards. This tour entails stories of the city’s gangster era, including the site of Peoria’s most notorious crime scene — the Bernie Shelton murder. Also, discover why Peoria has been honored three times with the prestigious “All-America City” award.
Abraham Lincoln and the Civil WarWhen: Every Friday in August and October, 10:30 a.m. (1.5 hours) Departs: Kelleher’s Irish Pub, 619 SW Water Street, Peoria Tickets: 309-673-6000
This tour tells the story of Lincoln’s visits to Peoria, as well as the Civil War troops and the camps where they trained. See the markers where the camps once stood, and visit Springdale Cemetery, the final resting place of many Civil War veterans. Pay a short visit to the GAR Hall, built in 1909, and hear the story of Joseph Greenhut, the Whiskey Baron who provided much of its funding.
Haunted PeoriaWhen: Every Saturday in September and October, 1 p.m. (1.5 hours) Departs: Kelleher’s Irish Pub, 619 SW Water Street, Peoria Tickets: 309-673-6000
Discover the stories behind the ghostly appearances that have startled and puzzled Peorians through the years. Learn about the Lady in White, the Legend of Nee-Nee-Wah, the Curse of Old Lady Gray and more. What will you see in Haunted Peoria?
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With its central location and wide variety of options, Peoria is regarded as an outstanding transportation and logistics hub. Positioned directly on Interstate 74, the city offers highly ranked railroad access, an expanding commercial airport and barge
access via the Illinois River.
air
General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airportwww.flypia.com
The General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport provides service for everything from large commercial jets to recreational aircraft, includ-ing passenger jets, cargo jets, corporate aviation, charters and private aircraft. The airport includes the longest runway in Illinois outside of Chicago O’Hare Airport and is capable of handling the world’s largest aircraft. It is also the only airport in downstate Illinois with a 24-hour air traffic control tower. Carriers include Allegiant Air, as well as regional partners of Delta Airlines, American Airlines and United Airlines, providing direct flights to Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, Minneapolis, Denver, Las Vegas, Dallas, Phoenix and Tampa.
The airport’s new $65 million terminal building opened in April 2011, bringing air service into the modern age for the region. Amenities in the new terminal include free Wi-Fi, two restaurants/bars, all services on one floor, conference and meeting rooms available to the public, and a Premier Passenger club that offers access to special closed-in parking and a lounge.
New projects the Airport Authority is tackling this year include a partial demolition of the old terminal building, replacement of the air traffic control tower that occupies the remaining space in the old terminal, and several pave-ment rehab projects. In addition, the Airport Authority is working on a signage and landscaping project that will help passengers find their way from the expressway to and through the airport’s parking lots. According to Director of Airports Gene Olson, the signage project will bring the outside signage up to the same standards as the new interiors of the terminal.
“The first year of the new terminal was our fifth-best year ever,” Olson said. “We’re looking forward to new growth and new opportunities for air travel for the central Illinois region.”
highWay and rail
Central Illinois offers five Class 1 railroads and six short-line railroads. Amtrak offers train service from nearby Normal, Galesburg and Lincoln. A proposal to extend passenger rail service to Peoria is currently under study by Amtrak and the Illinois Department of Transportation.
More than 65 interstate and local trucking firms in the region have access to interstate highways 74, 474, 155 and 39; U.S. 150; and Illinois routes 116, 40, 24, 29, 6 and 8.
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rEdEvEloPmEnt Interstate 74 through Peoria has seen major
improvements in recent years, and the city is now planning improvements to other major arteries. Washington Street
In conjunction with the revitalization of older areas of town, the city completed a feasi-bility study in 2010 to determine the logistics of redeveloping Washington Street from I-474 to I-74. The $42 million project includes land-scaping, sustainable design features, increased pedestrian and bicycle facilities, and a reduction in traffic lanes.
In 2011 the City Council decided to move forward with design of the northern portion of this project from MacArthur Highway to Hamilton Street. This project will include pedes-trian enhancements and a narrowing of the pave-ment to add parking on street and improve the pedestrian feel of the neighborhood.
The state of Illinois is providing $10.73 mil-lion toward the improvement of Washington Street. In addition the city of Peoria was awarded a $10 million TIGER 2 (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) Grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to enhance about 20 adjacent blocks in this older ware-house district. The city’s share of this project is about $3.8 million. Construction is expected to commence in late 2012 and continue through about 2015. Other Projects
In northwest Peoria, the first phase of • Orange Prairie Road is under construction, with the second phase expected to start in 2012. The Phase I study for the • Pioneer Parkway Extension project is nearing completion, and
the city has applied for a TIGER 2012 grant to assist with funding for two sections of this $72 million project. If the grant is awarded, work could commence as early as 2013.To assist with the development of the cam-•pus of OSF Saint Francis Hospital, the city has developed plans for the improvement of Pennsylvania Avenue around the northern side of the campus. Work will include rebuild-ing the roadway and adding a roundabout at the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue, Glen Oak Avenue and Wayne Street.Funds were awarded for the widening of the •eastern portion of Northmoor Road. The majority of this work was completed in 2010. Improvements to the Northmoor/Sheridan intersection and Sheridan Road followed in 2011, and the next section of widening com-menced in 2012.
Public and PassEngEr sErvicE
CityLinkwww.mycitylink.info
Greater Peoria Mass Transit District (known locally as CityLink) operates 22 routes six days a week, with some routes providing service until 1 a.m. The regional transportation provider will have a new fleet of 46 low-floor buses by January 2013.
CityLink is also in the planning stages for new facilities. A current goal is to construct a second Transit Center on the northern side of Peoria, which will be a scaled-down version of the one now serving the downtown area. An updated 122,000-square-foot, environmentally friendly maintenance/operations building is also planned. Acquisitions and construction will begin when funding becomes available.
Peoria Charter Coachwww.peoriacharter.com
Peoria Charter Coach provides conve-nient daily service to Chicago’s airports, scenic Midwest destinations and locations throughout the country. Pickup points include CityLink Transit Center and Bradley University in Peoria, as well as Illinois State University in Normal.
Burlington Trailwayswww.burlingtontrailways.com
Burlington Trailways provides passenger bus service throughout the area, operating daily routes from Peoria International Airport.
TransPORT (Heart of Illinois Regional Port District)www.portdistrict.com
The Heart of Illinois Regional Port District encompasses six central Illinois counties (Peoria, Fulton, Marshall, Mason, Tazewell and Woodford) and works with other regional play-ers to identify development opportunities in the transportation and logistics sector, with particu-lar emphasis on the Illinois Waterway. In early 2012, TransPORT announced plans to design and build a marine terminal facility at Pekin to handle industrial goods as well as dry and liquid bulk cargoes.
TransPORT helps facilitate regional growth through the commercial development of trans-portation facilities, deployment of financing tools and the engagement of public–private partnerships, with the long-term goal of expanding the economy, attracting investment and creating jobs.
TransporTaTion
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By JA y ne h rK o rn
The Peoria area’s ability to stand strong dur-ing economic downturns is largely due to its friendly environment for new and de-veloping businesses. In 2009, Peoria was
ranked by CNNMoney as the fifth-best midsized city in the United States to launch a small busi-ness, and the city continues to move up the rankings in the top half of the Milken Institute’s annual “Best-Performing Cities – 200 Largest Metros” list.
“All of these [accolades] are due in part to the entrepreneurial spirit that this region has embraced and the resources that are now in place for startup businesses, like Peoria NEXT,” explained Renee Charles of The Heartland Partnership.
The Peoria NEXT Innovation Center serves as a business incubator to increase economic
growth, diversity and opportunities in the Peoria area. The not-for-profit organization was formed in 2001 as a life science research collaboration, but became Peoria NEXT in 2002 to indicate an expanded scope that included growth opportuni-ties outside of biotechnology. The company has since become an economic development force for the central Illinois Region.
In February 2012, as Peoria NEXT began its second decade, the organization went through a realignment process that promises to attract technology commercialization opportunities by placing focus on four key growth areas that play to the region’s strengths. Looking to the future, Peoria NEXT strives toward the goal of being the preferred location in the Midwest for research, innovation, development and commercialization
in the medical, energy, food products/safety and manufacturing industries.
In partnership with Ameren, Bradley University, Caterpillar Inc., local hospitals and the U.S. Agriculture Lab, the NEXT Center rents space and provides business consulting to researchers and entrepreneurs on the cutting edge of new discoveries. A Caterpillar research center on the third floor is also heavily involved in discovering new commercially viable prod-ucts. Amenities at Peoria NEXT include wet and dry labs as well as meeting space for both techni-cal conferences and entrepreneurial networking meeting.
The Peoria NEXT Innovation Center is man-aged by Bradley University and houses the Bradley Technology Commercialization Center (BTCC). The center helps new technology companies by
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assisting with venture funding, enhancing entrepreneurial skills and aiding with business strategies. The BTCC and Peoria NEXT also work with The Heartland Partnership, the Economic Development Council for Central Illinois and other groups to promote Peoria as a prime location for businesses seeking to relocate.
With a primary mission to help startup companies grow, the center also strives to bring new diversity to Peoria’s busi-ness landscape. Residents currently based at the NEXT Center include companies related to the health care, energy and
agricultural industries. As a result of this success, numerous representatives from other cities, states and countries have toured the facility to learn more about the organization and how it works to foster the development of new businesses.
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Peoria NEXT Tenants
ag-defenSe SyStemSWWW.AGDEFENSESySTEMS.COM
Ag-Defense Systems’ handheld BioSage device monitors food items for pathogens and delivers real-time results within minutes while employing GPS tracking abilities.
arvenS teChnology, inC. (ati)WWW.ARVENSTECH.COM
ATI is developing pennycress from the field to the fuel pump as a sustainable, non-food crop for biofuel production.
eCothermiCS CorPorationWWW.ECOTHERMICS.COM
EcoThermics Corporation has developed a compact, high-pressure compressor for the emerging CO2 heat pump market.
endotronixWWW.ENDOTRONIX.NET
Endotronix is developing minimally invasive wireless devices that use radiofrequency identification (RFID) and microelectromechanical (MEMS) technology to monitor cardiovascular health from within the patient’s heart and blood vessels.
eSSen SCientifiC llC (eSl)WWW.ESSENSCIENTIFIC.COM
ESL is a pharmaceutical company specializing in custom synthesis and contract R&D services. ESL has developed more than 8,000 high-quality pharmaceutical intermediates, novel chemical and pharmaceutical building blocks, and other fine chemicals for research and industrial application.
iemWWW.IEMFG.COM
IEM is a full-line. customer-specific designer and manufacturer of electrical distribution and power quality equipment.
informmedWWW.INFORMMED.COM
InformMed has designed the pac2, a handheld dosage “calculator,” to address the problem of incorrect medication dosage at the point of care. The device is part of a hospitalwide system InformMed has developed.
intellihotWWW.INTELLIHOT.COM
Intellihot has developed a state-of-the-art tankless water heater that extracts nearly 98 percent of energy, provides unlimited hot water and occupies very little space.
Knotty outdoorSWWW.KNOTTy-OUTDOORS.COM
Knotty Outdoors creates women’s hunting apparel and accessories, making better-fitting, high-quality casual and hunting apparel.
lumeC Control ProduCtSWWW.LUMECLLC.COM
Lumec Control Products is dedicated to creating next-generation process-control technologies, including the dynamic Orifice Valve, providing unparalleled fluid flow control, accurate flow measurement and remote maintenance diagnostics.
Peoria robotiCSPeoria Robotics focuses strictly on applied research and development, with a mission to develop medical simulators to enhance medical education.
zuChemWWW.zUCHEM.COM
zuChem is a biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of novel manufacturing methods for the production of glycochemicals for the pharmaceutical, food and specialty chemical Industries.
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eConomiC sCoreCard raTinG our reGion
In 2009, as the Great Recession rocked national confidence and threatened millions of jobs, the Heartland Partnership launched the “It’s Better Here” campaign. The goal was to counteract lo-
cal fears and buoy the confidence of a community that had suffered greatly in previous recessions. At the same time, the campaign created a question: How is the economy faring for our competition?
As a response, The Heartland Partnership is pleased to present the inaugural Greater Peoria Economic Scorecard, which measures economic activities for the Peoria region and compares our performance with 11 peer and aspirational cities in the Midwest. For each community, data has been collected and analyzed using federally designated Metropolitan Statistical Areas.
This Scorecard reflects the performance of the entire region, and as such, it was important to collaborate with regional partners. A volun-teer task force comprised of CEOs, public sector leaders and professors from Bradley University provided guidance and leadership to ensure that measurements have value to leaders throughout the region.
The information in the Scorecard is as current as possible and was obtained from widely used and reliable sources, which will allow the Heartland Partnership to easily update results each year. The Scorecard measures multiple indicators across five broad categories: Economic Performance, People, Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Business, and Livability. As the project evolves, the effectiveness of these indicators will be continuously evaluated, and new indicators will be considered as reliable data is released.
Greater Peoria is competing for jobs, resources and talented people. Without an accurate picture of our strengths and challenges, we cannot effec-tively plan for a successful future. The results of this assessment are meant to create questions and frame discussions for the business, government and economic development communities in our region.
The following pages contain highlights of the 2012 Greater Peoria Economic Scorecard. For more information, or to view or download the full Scorecard, visit greaterpeoriascorecard.com.
About the Heartland Partnership
The Heartland Partnership provides strategic leadership, coordinates resources and brings to life initiatives focused on developing, growing and nurturing the Greater Peoria economy. The Partnership serves as a catalyst for regional visioning and strategic thinking and provides a forum for identifying regional issues and recommendations to be considered for action by the Economic Development Council for Central Illinois, the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, Peoria NEXT, the CEO Roundtable and other related entities.
For more information on The Heartland Partnership, visit heartlandpartnership.org.
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preferred business lisTinGs
ThanK you for your supporT of This projeCTAdvertising Agencies / speciAlties
McDaniels Marketing Communications11 Olt Ave.Pekin, IL 61554(309) 346-4230 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
McDaniels Marketing and McDaniels Interactive is a truly integrated marketing communications firm. We are always thinking of new ways to motivate those who have the most influence on our clients’ success.
ApArtmentsRiverWest312 S. MerrimanPeoria, IL 61605(309) 637-7150 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
RiverWest is an exceptional apartment community offering one- to three-bedroom townhomes/single-family homes. All appliances. Managed by Related Management Company. A standard of value from people that care.
Architects
Dewberry Architects, Inc.401 SW Water St., Suite 701Peoria, IL 61602(309) 282-8000 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Dewberry is a leading professional services firm with a proven history of providing architecture, engineering and inte-riors services to a wide variety of public- and private-sector clients.
LZT Associates Inc./Larson & Darby Group124 SW Adams St.Peoria, IL 61602(309) 673-3100 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Architecture, Engineering, Planning and Interior Design for educational, medical, commercial, criminal justice and indus-trial facilities. A member of the Larson & Darby Group. By the results of our work may we be known.
Auto repAirCar-X Tire & Auto Service4811 N. UniversityPeoria, IL 61614(309) 691-9700www.carx.com
Car-X has your auto repair needs covered. We offer complete auto maintenance services, from regular tune-ups to emer-gency repairs. Including Oil Change, Engine & Transmission, Discount Tires, Mufflers & Exhaust, Brake Repair & Service and much more!
BAnksAssociated Bank Illinois2311 W. Pioneer ParkwayPeoria, IL 61615(309) 692-2150www.associatedbank.com
Better Banks10225 N. Knoxville Ave.Peoria, IL 61615(309) 272-1000 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Awarded the Peoria Chamber’s Outstanding Small Business of the Year Award in 2011, Better Banks has six branches in five communities — Astoria, Bartonville, Dunlap, Peoria and Wyoming — and is part of Backlund Investment Company.
State Bank of Speer / Peoria Banking Center7620 N. UniversityPeoria, IL 61614(309) 691-9345 .........................................fax (309) 691-9412www.speerbank.com
BAnquet/Wedding FAcilities
AMVETS Peoria Post # 64237 NE MonroePeoria, IL 61602(309) 453-2056www.amvets.net
AMVETS Post 64 is home to the Freedom Ballroom, located in downtown Peoria. The ballroom has capacity to seat 170 comfortably. See pictures on the Freedom Ballroom’s Facebook page.
Avanti’s Ristorante4711 Rockwood RoadPeoria, IL 61615-3628(309) 685-2409 .........................................fax (309) 688-9053www.avantispeoria.com
Great Italian cuisine: home of the famous Gondola and their famous home-baked bread. Voted Best Family Restaurant in Central IL seven years in a row. Banquet facilities for up to 120 in restaurants. Banquet facilities in Avanti’s Dome Event & Sports Center in Pekin. Catering available. Full menus avail-able at avantispeoria.com.
Beer / Wine distriButorsWirtz Beverage Illinois1620 Chanute Road, A – DPeoria, IL 61615(309) [email protected]
Wirtz Beverage Illinois is a member of the Wirtz Beverage Group, one of the nation’s leading alcohol beverage distribu-tors, with more than $1.5 billion in annual sales.
BeverAge distriButors (non-Alcoholic)
Pepsi Beverages Company801 W. Birchwood St.Morton, IL 61550(309) 266-2400 .........................................fax (309) 263-5603www.pepsico.com
PepsiCO is a world leader in convenient snacks, foods and beverages.
cAll centerAmerigas3916 SW Adams St.Peoria, IL 61605(309) 637-3518 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
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cAtering
Avanti’s Ristorante4711 Rockwood RoadPeoria, IL 61615-3628(309) 685-2409 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
chiroprActorsTrotter Chiropractic Office5009 N. Executive Dr., Suite BPeoria, IL 61614(309) 693-9334 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Friendly, caring and compassionate, family-oriented chi-ropractic office. We specialize in neck and back pain and headaches, as well as sports injuries, car accidents and work injuries.
computer netWorking
Novanis IT Solutions722 S. Sara CourtDunlap, IL 61525(309) 243-1536 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Novanis has over 30 years of IT Services and Solutions built upon three practices: virtualization and consolidation, wired and wireless networking, and IT security. We also provide hardware service and managed services.
computer soFtWAre
CSE Software2109 S. Main St.Morton, IL 61550(309) [email protected]
CSE Software offers IT services for clients worldwide, includ-ing custom development, eLearning, simulation, mobile, help-desk support and fulfillment. CSE creates technology solutions that align our clients’ business and IT goals.
construction mAnAgementPCM+d300 E. Washington, Suite 3East Peoria, IL 61611(309) [email protected]
PCM+d’s experienced architects create architecture reflec-tive of our clients’ goals and expectations, with a focus on the education, commercial and municipal sectors in Central Illinois.
contrActors - generAlSchielein Construction Company1519 W. Altorfer DrivePeoria, IL 61615(309) 691-4113 .........................................fax (309) 691-7717www.cfsconst.com
SERVPRO® of Peoria & N Central Tazewell County113 Sapp St.Pekin, IL 61554(309) 346-5600 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
SERVPRO® specializes in the cleanup and restoration of resi-dential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage. SERVPRO® can also mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business.
control systems
ECSi1325 NE Bond St.Peoria, IL 61603(309) 272-1321 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
ECSi is the Automated Logic dealer and Integration solutions provider for Central Illinois and Southeastern Iowa. ECSi has offices centrally located in Peoria and Springfield.
counselingDebra Schierbeck, LCPC5016 N. University, Suite 104Peoria, IL 61614(309) 256-2558(309) [email protected]
Individual, couples and group counseling services. Specializing in sexual addiction, PTSD, depression, anxieties and loss/grief.
door mAnuFActurers / instAllAtionRaynor Door of Peoria, Inc.11423 N. State St.Mossville, IL 61552(309) 579-2500 .........................................fax (309) 579-2504www.raynor.com
Sales, service and installation of residential, commercial and agricultural overhead sectional and rolling doors and electric operators.
educAtionAl servicesMidwest Technical Institute280 High Point LaneEast Peoria, IL 61611(309) 427-2750 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Midwest Technical Institute (MTI) is a year-round technical/vocational school. MTI provides workforce training programs in the growing fields of employment in allied health and the mechanical trades.
electricAl contrActorsSchwartz Electric and Sign Co.2627 Allentown RoadPekin, IL 61554(309) [email protected]
We’ve been serving the area for over 60 years and are locally owned. We’re a full-service electrical contractor and sign shop. We are proud members of www.necanet.org.
elevAtorsKONE Inc.6106 W. Plank RoadPeoria, IL 61604(309) 697-9011 .........................................fax (309) 697-5203www.kone.com
Installation, Service, Repair and Modernization of Elevators and Escalators. Over 100 years in business.
engineering / consultingMaurer-Stutz, Inc.3116 N. Dries Lane, Suite 100Peoria, IL 61604(309) 693-7615 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Locally owned, multi-disciplined consulting engineering firm providing cost-effective solutions to engineering problems in water, wastewater, transportation, general civil, structural, agricultural and land surveying.
entertAinment / sportsMt. Hawley Bowl8200 N. HalePeoria, IL 61615(309) 692-7555 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Mt. Hawley Bowl is a family entertainment center with 24 bowling lanes, bar, snack bar, meeting room and arcade. A premier 18-hole outdoor mini-golf course is attached, with waterfalls and a 30-foot castle. Corporate and birthday par-ties, group rates available. COSMIC BOWLING Fridays and Saturdays.
FArm mAnAgement compAniesGreene Farm Management Service Inc.213 Second St.Dunlap, IL 61525(309) 243-1070 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Farm Management, Farm Appraisals, Consulting Services, Agricultural Insurance, Farm Real Estate Broker.
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Floor coveringCarpet Weaver’s Inc.8113 N. Knoxville Ave.Peoria, IL 61615(309) 693-7300 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Carpet Weaver’s is a locally owned floor-covering retailer that offers name brands such as Karastan, HGTV Bruce, Armstrong and American Olean. We also carry the full custom assortment of Hunter Douglas window fashions.
FurnitureLippmann’s Furniture & Interiors1429 W. Pioneer ParkwayPeoria, IL 61615(309) 685-1008 .........................................fax (309) 693-2842www.lippmannsfurniture.com
hArdWAreBartonville Hardware1201 W. Garfield Ave.Bartonville, IL 61607(309) 697-2111 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
We are a full-service hardware store started in 1951. We also sell Stihl, Toro and Snapper products and have a complete small engine shop.
heAlthQuality Quest for Health of Illinois416 Main St., Suite 717Peoria, IL 61602(309) 282-8825 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
A non-profit regional health improvement collaborative that brings patients and families, providers, employers, and insurers together to solve health care problems and improve patient outcomes.
heAlth cluBs
World Gym / L.A. Tan7620 N. UniversityPeoria, IL 61614(309) 589-5700 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
The serious, no-nonsense workout. The commitment to always remain a true gym, not a resort. Where you belong among friends. Where everyone’s a star, and you have the power to lift yourself to greatness. This is World Gym.
hotels / motelsCandlewood Suites Peoria at Grand Prairie5300 W. Landens WayPeoria, IL 61615(309) 691-1690 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
An 83-suite Hotel at Grand Prairie property. Extended-stay accommodations, including the Candlewood Cupboard, exer-cise center, business center and high-speed wireless Internet access.
Country Inn & Suites Peoria at Grand Prairie5309 W. Landens WayPeoria, IL 61615(309) 589-0044 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Exciting Hotel at Grand Prairie property. All-inclusive rooms and suites featuring breakfast, business center, shuttle ser-vice, wireless Internet, indoor pool and spa.
Hampton Inn and Suites Peoria at Grand Prairie7806 N. Route 91Peoria, IL 61615(309) 589-0001 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Luxurious Hotel at Grand Prairie property. Featuring Cloud Nine beds, all-inclusive breakfast, shuttle service, fitness center and weekday evening reception. Hospitality Suites and meeting rooms available.
Holiday Inn Express300 Eastlight CourtEast Peoria, IL 61611(309) 694-4959 .........................................fax (309) 694-4727www.hiexpress.com/eastpeoriail
Wingate by Wyndham Peoria at Grand Prairie7708 N. Route 91Peoria, IL 61615(309) 589-0033 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Upscale Hotel at Grand Prairie property. Thoughtful, all-inclusive amenities including shuttle service, breakfast, busi-ness center, weekday evening reception and wireless Internet. Board and meeting rooms available.
industriAl cleAning
Hunter Hydro-Vac Inc.3600 W. Malone St.Peoria, IL 61605(309) 637-4338 .........................................fax (309) 637-0915
We clean and televise residential sewer and drain lines; locate sewer lines; pump septic tanks, grease traps and car wash pits; and do hydro excavating (safer method to excavate around underground utilities and landscaping). We clean and televise commercial and municipal sanitary and storm sewer lines, culverts and more.
insurAnce Agencies
Coyle Insurance Agency4921 N. Glen Park PlacePeoria, IL 61614(309) 692-5522 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Coyle Insurance Agency, an independent insurance agency founded in 1984, services clients in business insurance, employee benefits and personal insurance protection.
Traders Insurance Agency Corp.721 W. Lake Ave.Peoria, IL 61614(309) 868-5080 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Traders Insurance Agency is family-owned and -operated, servicing the Tri-County area since 1939 with over 140 years’ combined insurance experience.
insurAnce compAniesArgo Group US8325 N. Allen Road, Suite BPeoria, IL 61615(309) 690-3900 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Argo Group US is a group of specialty insurance companies including the former Great Central Insurance Company, which was originally founded in Peoria, IL. The Peoria office is a branch office.
Pearl Technology1200 E. Glen Ave.Peoria Heights, IL 61616(309) 688-9000 .........................................fax (309) 688-5444toll free (800) 447-4982www.pearlcompanies.comwww.pearlinsurance.com
Pearl Companies is a privately held, multifaceted organiza-tion in Peoria Heights, IL, including Pearl Insurance, Pearl Technology and the Pearl Buick-GMC, Peoria Toyota-Scion, Lexus of Peoria and Autohaus of Peoria dealerships.
investment counselors
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC401 Main St.Peoria, IL 61602(309) 453-6532 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]://fa.smithbarney.com/laine_laine/
• Business Retirement Plans• Personal Retirement Planning• Comprehensive Financial Planning
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lAWn / gArden cAreGolf Green Lawn CareP.O. Box 1008Pekin, IL 61555-1008(309) 347-4798 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Locally owned and operated for 36 years! We provide chemi-cal lawn treatments, core aeration and seeding to residential customers. We provide the same to commercial customers, plus mowing, bed maintenance and much more.
mArketingXapsis Integrated Marketing331 Fulton St., Suite 200Peoria, IL 61602Office:(309) 495-4712Cell: (309) 550-4115 ............................... Fax: (309) [email protected]
Xapsis is a full-service marketing/communications firm for small to mid-sized businesses that specializes in corporate branding, Web design and development, mobile apps, social media marketing, and new media solutions.
medicAl groupAssociated Anesthesiologists, SC8600 N. Route 91, Suite 250Peoria, IL 61615(309) 692-5393
Associated Anesthesiologists, SC provides high-quality anes-thesia services.
Great Plains Orthopaedics303 N. William Kumpf Blvd.Peoria, IL 61605(309) 676-5546 .........................................fax (309) 676-5045www.greatplainsortho.org
A practice devoted exclusively to professional orthopaedic care, offering orthopaedic examination and treatment, diag-nostic testing (X-ray and DEXA Scan), ambulatory surgery center, occupational/physical therapy, and sports medicine.
mortgAge servicesBrimfield Bank Mortgage Loan Production Office4207 N. Prospect RoadPeoria Heights, IL 61616(309) 682-7200 .........................................fax (309) 682-6998calexander@brimfieldmortgage.comwww.brimfieldmortgage.com
It is our commitment to provide professional, high-quality ser-vice blended with the most competitive rates available nation-wide in order for you to have that special place you call home.
not For proFit
AMVETS Peoria Post # 64237 N. E. MonroePeoria, IL 61602-1034(309) 676-9458www.amvets.net
AMVETS Post 64 is home to the Freedom Ballroom, located in downtown Peoria. The ballroom has capacity to seat 170 comfortably. See pictures on the Freedom Ballroom’s Facebook page.
nursing homesHeartland Healthcare of Peoria5600 Glen Elm DrivePeoria, IL 61614-4340(309) 693-8777 .........................................fax (309) 693-8794www.hcr-manorcare.com
oFFice equipment / supplies / technology provider
RK Dixon & Purity Plus8630 N. Allen RoadPeoria, IL 61615(309) 692-3300 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
RK Dixon is a market leader when it comes to copiers, print-ers, networks, managed print services and pure drinking water systems. We have office locations in Daveport and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Bloomington, Champaign, Peoria, Rockford and Springfield, Illinois.
oil recyclingFuture Environmental2018 S. Darst St.Peoria, IL 61607(866) 579-6900 .........................................fax (309) 637-6246brichards@futureenvironmental.comwww.futureenvironmental.com
Other services offered: contaminated water reclamation, oil filter service, antifreeze collection, vac service and tank cleaning.
orgAnizAtionsGreater Peoria Contractors & Suppliers Association1811 W. Altorfer DrivePeoria, IL 61615(309) 692-5710 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
PARC1913 Townline RoadPeoria, IL 61612-1621(309) 691-3800 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
PARC offers community living, educational, employment, early intervention and respite care services to support families and help individuals with developmental disabilities achieve their personal best.
physiciAn reFerrAl servicePeoria Medical Society7700 N. Harker Drive, Suite DPeoria, IL 61615(309) 692-1192 .........................................fax (309) 692-2502www.peomedsoc.org
physiciAns / surgeons
Illinois CancerCare8940 N. Wood Sage RoadPeoria, IL 61615(309) 243-3000 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Illinois CancerCare is one of the largest private comprehen-sive medical oncology practices in the nation. Patients are the priority at Illinois CancerCare, and each receives personalized treatment from a caring and dedicated staff.
reAl estAte compAnies
McQuellon Consulting, Inc.5901 N. Knoxville Ave.Peoria, IL 61614(309) 693-2600 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Specializing in Real Estate Tax Appeal work for commercial, industrial and residential. Types of properties include shopping centers, office buildings, warehouse buildings, nursing homes and apartment buildings.
RE/MAX Unlimited3622 N. Knoxville Ave.Peoria, IL 61603(309) 687-5000 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Your Hometown Realtors with National and Worldwide Connections. Serving the Greater Peoria Area since 1980. Call RE/MAX Unlimited whether buying or selling, residential, commercial and relocation services.
rehABilitAtion servicesHeartland Healthcare of Peoria5600 Glen Elm DrivePeoria, IL 61614-4340(309) 693-8777 .........................................fax (309) 693-8794www.hcr-manorcare.com
Peoria area Chamber of CommerCe60
preferred business lisTinGs
restAurAnts
Avanti’s Ristorante4711 Rockwood Rd.Peoria, IL 61615-3628(309) 685-2409 .........................................fax (309) 688-9053www.avantispeoria.com
Great Italian cuisine: home of the famous Gondola and their famous home-baked bread. Voted Best Family Restaurant in Central IL seven years in a row. Banquet facilities for up to 120 in restaurants. Banquet facilities in Avanti’s Dome Event & Sports Center in Pekin. Catering available. Full menus avail-able at avantispeoria.com.
Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery7716 N. U.S. Route 91Peoria, IL 61615(309) 692-5458 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Tilted Kilt - Pub & Eatery“A Cold Beer Never Looked So Good”
retAil
Running Central4450 N. ProspectPeoria Heights, IL 61616(309) [email protected]
We are helping our neighbors in Central Illinois on their journey called life, running or walking, one step at a time! We provide exceptional customer service, footwear and apparel to help each person along the way!
scrAp metAl
Behr Iron & Metal2424 W. Clarke St.Peoria, IL 61602(309) 637-4422 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Recycling iron, steel and nonferrous metals since 1906, spe-cializing in industrial scrap management and retail recycling, Behr is ISO 9001 Quality and 14001 Environmentally certified.
screenprinting
Academy of Screenprinting & Awards, Inc.1316 E. War Memorial DrivePeoria, IL 61614(309) 686-0026 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
A full-service screenprinting, embroidery, trophy, plaque and promotional products store. Family-owned and -operated for over 35 years. We are your event solution.
security systemsF.E. Moran Alarm201 W. University Ave.Champaign, IL 61820(217) 403-6444 .........................................fax (217) 403-6442www.femoranalarm.com
F.E. Moran Security Solutions — For your home or business. Security, Fire, Life Safety, water detection, video systems and managed access protecting what matters most to you. FEMoranSecurity.com
siding And WindoWsDoerr Siding & Remodeling, Inc.603 Pinecrest DriveEast Peoria, IL 61611(309) 208-2683 .........................................fax (309) 282-3925
Doerr Siding and Remodeling installs seamless steel and vinyl siding, windows, doors, roofing, gutters and soffit, canvas and aluminum awnings, and vinyl and aluminum fence.
sociAl services
Alzheimer’s Association- Central IL Chapter Inc.606 W. Glen Ave.Peoria, IL 61614-4831(309) 681-1100 .........................................fax (309) 681-1101www.alz.org/illinoiscentral
The Alzheimer’s Association - Central Illinois Chapter is a donor-supported, not-for-profit health organization providing care and support for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease, serving 20 counties in Illinois.
Heart of Illinois United Way509 W. High St.Peoria, IL 61606(309) 674-5181 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Bringing the community together to address critical health and human care needs. By providing the best return on charitable investments, we support programs that are vital to improving quality of life in central Illinois.
speciAlty shopsWannabe’s Upscale Resale3530 W. Willow Knolls DrivePeoria, IL 61614(309) [email protected]
Wannabe’s is a one-of-a-kind women’s and children’s upscale resale boutique with a new line of jewelry and unique chil-dren’s gifts.
telephone services / equipment / systems
Advanced Communications8811 Pioneer RoadPeoria, IL 61615(309) 693-1919 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Advanced Communications is a full-service communications and technology provider. We service your telephone, com-puter, networking and cabling/infrastructure needs.
universities / collegesMethodist College415 NE St. Mark CourtPeoria, IL 61603(309) 672-5513 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Methodist College is a health science college offering bach-elor’s degrees in nursing and health science and a certificate in gerontology. Methodist College is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Midstate College411 W. Northmoor RoadPeoria, IL 61614(309) 692-4092 .........................................fax (309) [email protected]
Since 1888, Midstate College has been a leader in profes-sional training and education by offering a wide variety of bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees and diplomas. Small classes are offered day, night and online to provide access to students with complex schedules.
www.peoriachamber.org 61
Preferred Business Listings
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