Peoria Magazine: November 2020 | PeoriaMagazines.com

40 Leaders Under Forty composite photo.

40 Leaders Under Forty: Class of 2020

They come from many different walks of life, but are united in passion for their community. Day in and day out, their dedication, vision and volunteerism are making our region a better place to live, work and play.

Publisher's Note

Ready to Meet the Challenge

Jan Wright, Publisher, Peoria Magazine

Jan Wright, Publisher

As we collectively reimagine our future, I take comfort in knowing this group of young leaders is ready to meet the challenge head-on.

Features

Q&A with Carol Merna

40 Leaders Alumnus of the Year

Carol Merna, 2020 40 Leaders Alumnus of the Year

A member of the 40 Leaders Class of 1996, Carol Merna is now CEO of the Center for Prevention of Abuse, guiding its mission to help all people live peaceful lives, free from violence and abuse.

Remembering Bob Gilmore

Bob Gilmore

by Laura Cullinan, Gilmore Foundation

The legacy of one of Peoria’s greatest citizens will be built upon for generations to come.

Business

Transforming Lives, the Workforce and the Economy

Last semester, ICC's WEI Welding program served 13 individuals, the majority of which were underrepresented minorities facing multiple barriers.

by Dr. Sheila Quirk-Bailey, Illinois Central College

In the past year alone, ICC has led the implementation of three major workforce initiatives.

Young, Vibrant and Alive!

Cliff and Jodie Vieira of Crafted DIY Bar and Studio

by Michael J. Freilinger, Downtown Development Corporation

The DDC applauds all of those striking out on new ventures despite recent challenges.

City of Opportunity

Stacy and Andy Faris of JK Williams Distilling announce their vision for the future at an event on September 30, 2020.

The delayed relaunch of JK Williams is about never giving up in spite of sizable obstacles—just as its namesake did over a century ago.

Mining for Gold

Effective hiring relies on foresight, organizational sense, and the ability to assess and connect with people.

by Michael Vadis

The ability to recruit and retain top performers is more challenging—and important—than ever.

Partnership Is Key to Maintaining a Strong Community

Damon Piper

by Damon Piper, Heartland Bank

Strong businesses set the foundation for an even stronger community.

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Community

In It For the Long Haul

UnityPoint Health team members share their commitment to ensuring the well-being of our community.

by Human Services Collaborative of Greater Peoria

How our region’s human service sector is persisting through the pandemic

PAAR Celebrates 100 Years of Service

RE/MAX Realtors volunteering for Habitat for Humanity, early 2000s

by Steve Tarter

Amidst ever-changing times, PAAR remains a strong voice for real estate in Greater Peoria.

Peoria’s Collateral Beauty

Chief Demario Boone, Peoria Public Schools

by Chief Demario Boone, Peoria Public Schools

Sometimes we must take a step back to find beauty in the complexities.

Leadership in a Time of Crisis

Stephen Standifird, PhD is Bradley University’s 12th president. Courtesy of Evan Temchin, Bradley University

by Sandra Guthrie, Bradley University

A new university president steps decisively into a uniquely challenging environment.

Our Common Threads

A home visit made possible through video calling

by Steve Thompson, Easterseals Central Illinois

This year's Easterseals Tribute celebrates the qualities, attributes and deep-seated values that tie our community together.

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Lifestyle

Making Our Best Possible Life

Nikki Burk

By Nikki Burk

What feelings should we expect to have with all of this uncertainty?

Take 10: Amy Weaver

Amy Weaver and her children

Ten things you didn't know about the real estate broker and team leader at The Knell Group

Take Charge of Your Health With Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is known for its health benefits, including reversal of conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.

by Jaymee Barra, UnityPoint Health

It’s not an end-all, be-all solution for weight loss, but it offers numerous health benefits.

5 Responses to Political Stress

Political stress can be elevated during the time of elections

by Katie Sandler

Why controlling how you react is essential in today’s world…

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Art

Expanding the Big Picture

Big Picture board members Mark & Maggie Misselhorn; Big Picture intern Jamie Wunning; mural artists Natalie Jackson and William Butler; Big Picture co-founders Eileen & Doug Leunig. Photo by Beau Commanday

by Mae Gilliland Wright

In a year like no other, the Big Picture Initiative has found new ways to strengthen its programs.

A New Musical Experience

Inventor Michael Kuzma demonstrates his Kuzma Self-Playing Guitar system at an event at Bradley University.

by Jonathan Wright

A recent Bradley graduate enhances the guitar with a revolutionary self-playing system.

Kaleidoscope of Color

Casey & Dr. Keith Knepp with Jonathon & Nikki Romain

The theme of UnityPoint Health – Central Illinois Foundation's annual Unity Gala accurately sums up 2020.

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