Rooted in Metamora and proud of it, Janine has spent her entire life loving Central Illinois. From her early teaching days in Pekin—where she met and taught alongside her husband, Greg—to raising their two children in Dunlap while Greg served as principal at Banner Elementary, every chapter has been close to home. Now empty nesters, Janine and Greg have landed in the heart of Peoria, where this year they happily welcomed two new granddaughters and share their days with their calico cat, Sadie.

Janine finds joy in people, music, and the simple things—cooking a good meal, lingering over coffee with friends, and cheering on the Cardinals. And when Sunday afternoon rolls around, chances are you’ll find her cruising the World’s Most Beautiful Drive, a hometown treasure she never stops appreciating.