Public Issues

We're Blessed With Many Great Leaders
The November issue of InterBusiness Issues is something I look forward to with great anticipation. For the past 11 Novembers, this magazine has saluted the best and brightest young people our area has to offer through the 40 Leaders Under Forty program.

This issue is no different from past years, highlighting 40 people who already are making a difference. In fact, this year's honorees were selected from well over 138 nominees, which I'm sure makes the selection process very difficult for the judges. Just think about that for a minute. More than 138 individuals under 40 were nominated for this award. That speaks volumes about the talented young individuals who live and work in our area.

I'd like to salute the 2004 class of the 40 Leaders Under Forty. You should be proud of your accomplishments, but remember, we'll continue to expect great things of you.

Our area has produced so many great leaders over the years. We've been blessed with dedicated individuals who've made a difference in business, politics, and community activities. It's something that makes our area so unique. We, in central Illinois-and the Peoria area in particular-have a great sense of community involvement and civic duty.

If you look at those who've been honored since the first class in 1994, you'll see people who've done great things. Elected officials, business owners, media personalities, volunteer leaders…almost every aspect of life and business in our area has been represented by someone under age 40 who's making a difference.

To all of those nominated for this year's award, I urge you to keep up the good work. Strong leadership makes for healthy communities, and we'll continue to need strong leadership in the future. You're the people we'll rely on for years to come to lead our communities.

I'd also like to thank the many sponsors that have allowed this recognition to continue for 11 years. Caterpillar Inc., RLI Corp., OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, Illinois Central College, Lippmann's Furniture and Interiors, and Associated Bank all deserve our thanks for underwriting the awards and ceremony this year. And a special thanks to InterBusiness Issues for its work in making the 40 Leaders Under Forty possible.

Once again, congratulations to the 40 honorees in this month's issue. Your recognition is well deserved. IBI