Editor’s note

Once again our fi nal edition of the year, Dec. 27, will be dedicated to “Remembering the lives they lived,” with stories of area residents who have died during 2012. We are asking readers to contribute by sending us 300 words on someone they loved and lost during the year. Include the person’s complete name, birth and death dates, and tell us what made the person special to you and the community. Send us an informal photo of the person, as well as your contact information. Send your essay by 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15, by email to remembering@illinoistimes.com. –Fletcher Farrar, editor and publisher Cover illustration is by Kelly Brother