Local Legends

Their legacies are legendary, their impact profound. By sharing their stories, we hope to inspire the rest of us who are living out our own legacies, each and every day.

We are proud to announce our 2021 Local Legends: Esther Cohen, Preston Jackson, Martha Herm and Tom McIntyre.

On Monday, July 12, 2021, Peoria Magazines will host an intimate reception at the Creve Coeur Club of Peoria to honor the 2021 class of Local Legends. Held in conjunction with the July issue of Peoria Magazine, the event will take place from 4:30 to 6:00pm, with the program beginning promptly at 5:00pm. Tickets include complimentary wine, beer, soda and light hors d'oeuvres.

	Wayne Baum Family Foundation John Bearce

2020 Local Legends

• Sid & Flo Banwart: Partners in Philanthropy
• Bob & Joan Ericksen: Connections to Nature
• Junior & Jackie Watkins: Paying It Forward

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we were unable to celebrate our 2020 Legends in person. Instead, we honored them through an exhibit at the Peoria Riverfront Museum and an in-depth interview on Facebook Live. Check out the archived videos below:

• July 15, 2020: Bob & Joan Ericksen
• July 22, 2020: Junior & Jackie Watkins
• July 29, 2020: Sid & Flo Banwart

2019 Local Legends

• G. Raymond Becker: Builder of Modern Peoria
• Dr. Patrick Elwood: The Modest Neurosurgeon
• Hon. Joe Billy McDade: The Principled Judge
• Doug & Diane Oberhelman: The Ultimate Power Couple

Check out more photos from the 2019 reception!