January Voice 2013

The Voice is online at rockfordchamber.com

YMCA’s Healthy Offerings

IGNITE! Strategic plan for 2013

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Join in the Celebration at the Chamber Annual Dinner

January 2013 | Volume 26 | No. 1

Incoming superintendent shares vision A time of transition for the Rockford Public Schools

By Paul Anthony Arco Dr. Robert Willis is pleased with a number of accomplishments during his tenure as superintendent of Rockford Public Schools, but he’s especially proud of one recent development. “When I started this job, the plan was to build a leadership team made up of Rockford area superstars,” he said. “The dream was to have one of those superstars become the next superintendent – a person committed to the community.”

Willis believes Dr. Ehren Jarrett is that person. Jarrett will assume the position of superintendent next July, once the current school year comes to an end.

Photos by Brian Thomas Photography

Incoming superintendent Dr. Ehren Jarrett shared his thoughts about the district’s future.

Both Willis and Jarrett shared their thoughts about the district’s future during the Rockford Chamber of Commerce Education Outlook Luncheon on Dec. 6 at Cliffbreakers Riverside Resort. More than 400 community leaders turned out for the annual event, which had many in the audience feeling optimistic about the district’s future.

“It will be a fantastic transition,” said Einar Forsman, president & CEO of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce. “That’s the whole thing about building from within, having internal succession and identifying key leaders. The leadership

team they have built together is going to be great for the future. Two years ago, you had a community that was being chastised and not challenged. Now, we’re not only challenged, but invited. That’s a big change.”

Alpine Bank President and CEO Bill Roop agreed.

“In the past, I don’t believe the school board and the administration had the trust of the community,” he said. “Dr. Willis, with the board, set the ball in motion, and Dr. Jarrett will take it to a whole new level.

The referendum is a perfect example of more on page 3

High School Academy hosts expo at Jefferson High School

Helping students make the link between school and career

Visit us online at: rockfordchamber.com n online registration n keynote speaker video clips n event photos n list of Chamber events Questions? 815-987-8100

Join the Chamber’s LinkedIn Group www.linkedin.com/e/gis/2544

On Nov. 15 and 16, businesses and organizations participated in a pilot Academy Expo at Jefferson High School.

The expo was part of High School Academies, a new program to give students career exposure in industries like manufacturing, healthcare and aerospace, in order to encourage them to discover what they enjoy. The initial academy phase took place at Jefferson High School in 2012, with plans for expansion to other high schools next year. The establishment of High School Academies comes from a partnership between Alignment Rockford, the Rockford Chamber, Rockford Public Schools and many other key organizations.

Learning about Future Careers The event exposed 9th, 10th and 11th graders to a variety of careers to assist them in making their academy selection in January, 2013. It aimed to help students forge the link between their high school

Join the Rockford Chamber on Thursday, Jan. 24 for its Annual Dinner, 5 to 8 p.m., Giovanni’s, Inc., 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford.

Jim Blasingame, one of the world’s foremost experts on small business and entrepreneurship, will present “The Age of the Customer.” The 2013 Citizen of the Year also will be announced.

Blasingame is the awardwinning host of The Small Business Advocate® Show, the only nationally syndicated weekday radio talk show dedicated to small business. He is a syndicated columnist and author of two books, Small Business is Like a Bunch of Bananas, and Three Minutes to Success. His next book is The Age of the Customer.

The Annual Dinner is sponsored

by WilliamsMcCarthy LLP (presenting); Humana (Citizen of the Year award); First National Bank and Trust Co., OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center (gold); AT&T, Leading Lawyers Network (silver); McGladrey, The Alliance (bronze).

Mark your calendar!

Annual Dinner Jan. 24 • Giovanni’s, Inc. For more info, see page 23

2013 Mileage Rates Announced The Internal Revenue Service stated that beginning on Jan. 1, 2013, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (also vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be: • 56.5 cents per mile for business miles driven • 24 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes • 14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations

WCHC Reports an Increase in Influenza-Like Illness A Jefferson student records an on-air promo at the Maverick Media booth. curriculum and their future careers.

■■ 301 career professionals hosted 65 booths in the Jefferson High School gym.

■■ Groups of fewer than 10 students rotated to each booth for 10-minute discussions. Industry experts prepared five-minute, career-related, hands-on activities to engage students, leaving five minutes for questions. more on page 4

Winnebago County Health Department reports an increase in influenza activity in the community, indicating the possibility of an early peak for the season. Recommendations are that everyone six months of age and older receive a flu vaccination as soon as possible. If you are sick with flu-like illness, the CDC recommends staying home for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone. For more information call 815720-4264 or visit www.wchd.org.

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President’s Message VIEWPOINT

Significant public policy issues facing Illinois in 2013 Just like the federal government, the biggest issues confronting the returning and newly elected members of Illinois’ General Assembly are fiscal matters.

Previous General Assemblies have, for years, defied the Illinois Constitutional mandate that requires the legislature to adopt a balanced budget. So, the top priority remains that of restoring fiscal integrity to state finances.

The legislature must develop budgets where spending matches or is less than the amount of revenue state government collects each year. It must eliminate the backlog of payments to vendors, local governments and agencies. State government balance sheets must achieve equilibrium where fiscal obligations are paid in a timely manner.

Most importantly, legislators must acknowledge that the current public employee pension programs are unsustainable and must be restructured to curb the excessive long-term costs to taxpayers. They must stop stalling and remove the uncertainty that influences business and personal decisions. The fiscal health of the pension funds must be fixed so retirees will receive retirement benefits, even if they are less generous.

Governor Quinn is right to keep

reminding members of the General Assembly and the public that rapidly rising pension costs are effectively squeezing out funds that would otherwise go towards financing education, public safety, health care for indigent and other public services.

Failure to Act Legislators must be reminded that our state’s failure to successfully resolve the public pension debt obligations has made Illinois a national disgrace. Illinois’ unfunded public employee pension debt is the largest in the nation and our bond ratings are keeping company with the most financially distress nations in the world. Until our elected officials accept the tough decisions and cast responsible votes to put these funds on a path towards solvency business owners, investors and bond holders can have no trust or confidence in Illinois government. The continued failure to act has placed the economy, livelihood and quality of life for future generations at risk.

The newly elected General Assembly confronts other daunting public policy issues that require their attention.

The capital funding program that was adopted in 2009 will be exhausted during

the next legislative term. Legislators must act to reauthorize and fund a capital program if infrastructure investments are to be maintained in a state of good repair. Safe and reliable transportation networks are critical to Illinois’ economy.

Legislators should establish an annual capital spending program that provides predictable, consistent and stable funding for infrastructure investments.

Other Business Issues to Address Other important business climate issues pending before the General Assembly include the elimination or extension of the temporary corporate and individual income tax rate increases that were imposed in January of 2011.

The 2011 law incorporated a sunset provision triggered for January 2015.

The General Assembly members taking office in January must determine the fate of the tax rate increases that generate approximately $7 billion to the treasury.

The workers’ compensation law adopted in 2011 must be revisited in order to improve the state’s cost of doing business competitiveness relative to other states.

The pending General Assembly action most threatening the viability of many

small businesses

is

the threat of another mandate

to

increase

the

Doug Whitley President & CEO IllinoisChamber of Commerce

state’s minimum wage.

During the next two years, the critical assessment of Governor Quinn and the Democrat-controlled legislature will best be measured by the agenda they fulfill.

Will they demonstrate fiscal discipline, promote expansive investment from existing businesses, generate population growth from job seekers migrating to Illinois because of a vibrant economy, promote new business opportunities, and substantially reduce unemployment? If there is limited or no progress on these fundamentals, it is likely they will become the election themes for 2014.

As president and CEO of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, Douglas L. Whitley leads the Chamber’s charge to promote the interests of Illinois business. Whitley has a long record of business leadership and expertise in taxation and regulation, which he has earned in a career spanning the public and private sectors.

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January 2013

Education Outlook Continued from front page

working together through the difficult times. To have nearly 65 percent support for a referendum in this community is big. Many of us at Alpine Bank are more excited about this community now than we have been in the last 20 years.

Leadership is where it starts.”

Implementing “Readiness Rocks” As part of the Rockford Public Schools leadership team during the past 18 months, Jarrett worked with Alignment Rockford to implement high school academies, communicating with the board, district staff and community stakeholders. Jarrett previously served as principal of Rockton Hononegah High School.

“He’s going to do a fabulous job because he believes in the team concept,” Willis said. “He believes in giving back and serving the community. To have a leadership that believes in the same things, you can’t help but succeed. We have challenges, let’s be honest, but he has all the tools and the commitment to deal with it.”

Jarrett will continue implementing plans that Willis created last year in the five goals he called “Readiness Rocks,” which includes college and career readiness, seven periods to success, 21stcentury learning environments, preschool and college for all.

“Dr. Willis was the right superintendent, at the right time, for this community,” Jarrett said. “He’s been even a better mentor for me. My job now is to soak up as much as I can from him for the next six months. What he has done in the first 18 months on the job is something we all can be proud of.”

Community Involvement Tim Knauf, division president of employee benefits for Williams Manny, was recently named as one of Rockford’s Twenty People You Should Know. He and the other recognized leaders have decided to join forces as a group to assist Rockford Public Schools in any way they can.

“The district is moving in a direction that Rockford needs,” he said. “The economy has had its impact on some of the decision-making process. Now, with some of that behind us, there’s a renewed interest in the vision moving forward. The school district is in a much better financial position to make the necessary steps for the future. That makes a big difference.”

Community groups are finding other ways to get involved. John McNamara, senior development officer at Rockford

College, said many of his neighbors have met to discuss ways they can help. “All of us have a role, one way or another,” he said. “Maybe we can start a tutoring program. We need volunteers to provide services that will help our neighbors and their children.”

According to the future superintendent, education is a process that requires all hands on deck. “We would not be where we are if it weren’t for this community,” Jarrett said. “We can’t do this alone. This room was full of people who believe that. I know we’re going to succeed.”

The luncheon was sponsored by BMO Harris Bank. Supporting sponsors included Humana and Alignment Rockford. n

Community organizations coordinate efforts to help students to finance college In 2012, Rockford public high school graduates attending college or vocational training will receive $3.4 million from federal PELL and state MAPS grants. These grants support students from lower income families. But, only 34 percent of graduating high school seniors completed the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) by March, 2012. FAFSA results help determine a student’s level of financial aid and are used by most colleges to create a financial aid package.

A community-wide effort to encourage all families with a high school senior to complete the FAFSA will take place in January, 2013. Rockford Mayor Larry Morrissey, the Rockford City Council, County Board Chairman Scott Christiansen and the Winnebago County Board are proclaiming January to be Financial Aid Awareness Month.

Rockford Public Schools, Rockford Promise, Illinois Student Assistance Commission, YMCA of Rock River Valley, Rock Valley College, Rockford College, La Voz Latina, Rockford Public Library, Rockford Park District and the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois have joined in this effort.

Rockford Chamber members can help by encouraging employees or clients with a child who is a high school senior to complete the FAFSA as early in 2013 as possible.

Workshops will be held for students and parents to provide instruction and assistance in its completion.

Visit the Rockford Promise Facebook page for the schedule.

Let your Voice be heard The Rockford Chamber of Commerce ­elcomes and encourages submissions w for The VOICE of the Rockford Business Community. Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding ­ publication. Send news releases and other items of interest to the business community to: The VOICE Rockford Chamber of Commerce 308 W. State St., Ste. 190 Rockford, IL 61101

For information about advertising contact Customer Service at 815-987-8100.

The VOICE of the Rockford Business Community (USPS 784-120). ISSN number 1086-0630, is published monthly by the Rockford Chamber of Commerce, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, Illinois 61101.

Periodicals postage paid at Rockford, Ill. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The VOICE of the Rockford Business Community, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, IL 61101.

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Join in the effort to wipe out heart disease

Left to right: Karen Brown, Kathy Weber, Rebecca Epperson, Beth Howard, Paula Carynski and Kim Kuborn.

One woman dies almost every minute from heart disease. Yet studies show that only 21 percent of women view heart disease as their greatest health threat.

The American Heart Association is in the business of furthering the cause of a heart-healthy lifestyle through education, advocacy and community outreach.

This would not be possible without the dedication of local volunteers. These volunteers and the efforts to get out the heart-healthy message have helped, and the #3 killer – stroke -- has moved to #4.

“Rockford has a big heart, and it has shown it by the engagement of local volunteers, who pour their time and talents into making initiatives, such as the Go Red for Women Luncheon, a premier celebration of energy and passion,” said Valerie Tippitt, a corporate events director at the AHA. “This proves the power of women to band together and wipe out heart disease.”

Through the efforts of fundraising initiatives in 2011/2012, the AHA has: ■■ Trained 13,612 people in Winnebago County in cardiopulmonary resuscitation – 9,170 alone in Rockford.

■■ Supported three training centers: OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center,

SwedishAmerican Health System and Rockford Health System.

■■ Supplied more than 7,000 printed material brochures at the 2012 On the Waterfront.

■■ Performed hundreds pressure screenings.

of

blood

Thanks to Those Who Make it Happen Thanks to the AHA 2012 Circle of Red Women, who use their influence and resources to help find a cure for the number one killer of women. Thanks also to the 2013 Executive Leadership Team for the Go Red For Women. And always, thanks to the volunteers – and thank you Rockford … the city with the big heart.

Visit www.rockfordgoredforwomen.com.

Please join the American Heart Association for a celebration at the

Go Red for Women luncheon Wednesday, Feb. 20 Giovanni’s Restaurant 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Contact Valerie Tippitt for tickets ($100) at 815-262-1428 or Valerie.

Tippitt@Heart.Org.

Academy Expo Continued from front page

■■ Industry experts were energetic, passionate, engaging and creative, in order to help the students get excited about the potential careers. The experts discussed college and career readiness with students and modeled professional dress and behaviors.

Students interviewed the industry experts with questions such as: ■■ Why did you choose this career?

A student assembles the “flying toilet” at the B/E Aerospace booth.

■■ Describe your work experience/ typical day.

■■ What qualifications are needed for your position?

Outcomes of the Expo ■■ 86% of students said the expo helped them to make an informed decision about choosing an academy.

■■ 83% of teachers said the expo was useful in helping students choose an academy.

■■ 97% of industry experts said they would participate next year. n

Pastor Nate Yeske engages students at the I Love Youth booth.

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January 2013

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

Ask the owner of your business where it’s going Do you know the right questions to ask yourself in order to increase your ability to accomplish next year’s business goals?

By Jim Blasingame Do you know where your small business is going in 2013?

The best way to find this answer is to ask your business’s owner. But do you know the right questions to ask yourself in order to increase your ability to accomplish next year’s business goals?

To help you get started, here are five questions proposed by John Dini, one of the top management experts I know.

Following John’s questions, I’ve added my thoughts to give you a little jump-start.

Question One: How much in sales revenue do we want to achieve next year?

If you want to grow, it all starts

with driving the top line on the profit and loss statement (P&L). How does your prior sales performance, organizational capability and ability to grow customer relationships support your new sales projections?

Question Two: What gross profit goal do we need to achieve to accomplish our operating goals?

Gross profit is sales revenue minus cost of goods sold (COGS), and it’s what covers operating expenses on the way to net profit. Be sure to align this goal with your new sales projection, because increasing revenue at the expense of gross profit is a fool’s errand.

Question Three: What are the most important things we can do to achieve this performance?

Better marketing?

More advertising? Better sales training?

Staff changes? New products? Better online capability? Expand market penetration? Start with the one that looks the most like low-hanging fruit and proceed from there.

Question Four: How should my own role in the company change in the coming year?

Each year, every business owner should fire themselves from jobs they no longer have to do and promote themselves to new jobs only they can do. Delegation and professional growth is the key to management success and ultimately, business performance.

Question Five: What is the most desirable personal goal I would like to make for myself?

If a genie gave you one wish to make your personal life more fulfilling, what would it be? More family?

More golf? More bridge? More fishing?

More whatever-the-heck-I-want-to-dowhenever-I-want-to-do-it? You’ll be a better manager with healthy outside interests.

Of course, these aren’t the only questions – just good ones to start with. Our job – John Dini and me – is to help you climb out of the trenches long enough to ask the owner of your business where it’s going.

Write this on Jim Blasingame a rock … Ask Small Business Advocate Show yourself these, and any other questions you think of. Then write down the answers and make it happen.

Jim Blasingame is creator and host of the Small Business Advocate Show.

Copyright 2012, author retains ownership.

All Rights Reserved. Visit www. smallbusinessadvocate.com.

The views expressed are those of Blasingame’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Mark Your Calendar!

Hear Jim Blasingame live as the keynote speaker for the Rockford Chamber’s upcoming Annual Meeting. Mark your calendars for Thursday, Jan. 24 at Giovanni’s.

For more information, see the ad on page 23.

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January 2013

RAEDC celebrates success of Rockforward!

More than 700 business and community leaders celebrated the region’s economic wins over the past year, and learned about efforts to create more jobs in the future at the RAEDC’s 2012 Annual Meeting and Dinner on Nov. 28 at Giovanni’s Restaurant and Convention Center.

RAEDC President Janyce Fadden gave the keynote address; highlighting the business retention, expansion and attraction projects by RAEDC partners, investors and staff. In 2012, the projects brought announcements of 2,940 new or retained jobs, $428 million in planned capital investment, and 1.77 million square feet of new or renovated space. In the five years of the RAEDC’s Rockforward! campaign, project wins brought 8,513 new or retained jobs, $730 million in capital investment, and 4.98 million square feet of new or renovated space.

“Over the five years of the Rockforward!

Plan, the goals were exceeded,” Fadden said. “The Rockforward! Plan is gaining momentum and is consistently delivering results.”

Fadden said the region’s successes have come from “Coalitions of the Willing” — groups of people who step up and collaborate to tackle challenges and produce lasting results. Examples include the Joint Institute of Engineering & Technology – Aerospace, Alignment Rockford, the new entryway to Chicago Rockford International Airport, and the new Woodward campus.

“To further understand how to improve

alongside of the RAEDC staff and witness firsthand the dramatic shift in the role of the organization in the community,” Roop said. “Combined, these programs are assisting our local employers to grow nationally and internationally; allow- ing entrepreneurs the opportunity to grow their companies; and creating the foundation for our region’s future growth.”

Janyce Fadden keynotes Annual Meeting. our ability to compete, the region applied for a Strategic Diversification Study funded by the U.S. Economic Development Administration,” Fadden stated. “The study recommends strategies that allow us to adapt to a changing global economy and ensure that we are building a strong economic future.”

Launch of Rockford Area Strategic Initiatives Outgoing RAEDC Board Chairman Bill Roop also spoke, noting the ways the RAEDC has expanded its initiatives and services to help employers create and retain quality jobs. During the past three years, the RAEDC formed Rockford Area Strategic Initiatives, the umbrella organization over the EIGERlab and the Rockford Region Economic Development District. The RAEDC also now administers The Illinois SBDC International Trade Center of the Rockford Area and Foreign Trade Zone #176.

“I have been privileged to work

Rockforward2, a Three-Year Campaign A presentation was made to Congressman Donald Manzullo; recognizing the many contributions he has made to the Rockford region, and specifically his vision and dedication to the EIGERlab. Incoming RAEDC Board Chairman Joel Sjostrom discussed the success of the Rockforward! campaign and the launch of a new three-year campaign -- Rockforward2! The campaign brings together community leaders to invest in the RAEDC’s work, giving it the necessary funding and resources.

“Our investors showed bold leadership and kept moving forward in the face of a continued recession,” Sjostrom said.

“Their long-range thinking keeps our region top-of-mind with companies looking to relocate or expand to a new market, and helps those already here to commit and grow. But our work is not done. We need the private and public sectors to stay at the table with us and continue to implement this plan. Together we can build a better, stronger, more sustainable economy.”

State of Illinois introduces 2012-2013 STEP Program The Rockford Area Economic Development Council continues to support and expand programs to help manufacturers achieve sustainable growth through international trade. Exports from the Rockford area achieved their highest growth rate in five years in 2011, and their highest total export value since the U.S. Department of Commerce began tracking the data in 2005. Our regional manufacturers must continue to expand our global market share to achieve sustainable economic well-being.

Rockford area companies will have new opportunities to promote the brand of their company internationally though the 2012-2013 State Trade & Export Promotion (STEP) Program. Illinois, in partnership with the RAEDC and the U.S. Commercial Service, introduced Illinois’ 2012-2013 STEP Program to Rockford area business leaders in December. Administered by the Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity’s Office of Trade and Investment, the program provides financial and technical export assistance to eligible small and medium-sized businesses.

Companies can participate in 2012 to 2013 in up to two of 18 state of Illinois group trade missions to five different continents, spanning multiple industry sectors. Qualified businesses will receive 50 to 75 percent travel cost reimbursement, up to $5,000, along with the support of the State of IL Office of Trade & Investment in the identification and advancement of leads generated throughout the trade mission.

Individual Sales Mission Companies outside of the sectors represented in the scheduled STEP Group Trade Missions are encouraged to participate in an Individual Foreign Market Sales Mission. These missions meet the individual needs of participating companies, and can include participation in an international trade show or individual customer appointments.

Qualified businesses can receive 50 to 75 percent reimbursement of approved program and travel costs, up to $7,500.

Companies also can receive financial assistance to obtain compliance

certification for their products. It is available for measures taken to comply with foreign regulations, including those for agricultural products, ISO registration, and packing and recycling laws. Qualified companies can receive assistance for 50 percent of costs, not to exceed $5,000.

The International Trade Administration’s listing of certifications will be used as a guide for qualified certifications. Visit export.gov/regulation/eg_main_018220.asp.

The aim of the STEP initiative is to help states grow the number of small businesses that are exporting and increase the value of exports for small businesses currently exporting. These goals build on Governor Pat Quinn’s goal of doubling Illinois’ exports by 2015 and strengthening Illinois’ competitive edge in the global market.

Companies interested in pursuing STEP Grant funding to mitigate the cost of international travel, or achieving certifications, can begin the application process by contacting Carrie Zethmayr, manager of international trade at the RAEDC, at 815-969-4263 or czethmayr@ rockfordil.com.

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TEDxRockford event

By Sherry Pritz, EIGERlab As many of you know, a group of motivated people in our community organized and executed the first local TED event, TEDxRockford, and the program’s theme was “Building a Sustainable Community.” Among the speakers who delivered thought-provoking information was EIGERlab’s (E-L) executive director, Dan Cataldi, who spoke on Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

Dan shared that E-L’s mission is to support Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Commercialization that ultimately will create jobs and wealth within our region. Following are several of the current E-L efforts and services that he discussed: ■■ Stateline FastPitch Competition, designed to celebrate and support entrepreneurs and inventors of all types, have hosted more than 300 participants since its inception in 2006.

■■ Majority of the region’s business support programs exist at E-L. ■■ Center for Product Development (C4PD) at E-L assists clients with design, prototyping and analysis of new products including utilizing state-of-the-art, 3D-printing. (Clients are both inside and outside of our region, including seven states and five countries.) It assists a variety of business types, from startup to existing stage, including aerospace, artists, consumer goods products, government, manufacturing and medical. Art-related efforts recently encompassed the creation of certified/authorized replicas of the Michelangelo Bosseti series for a museum in Florence, Italy. Recent contractual projects have included work for both the White House and Disney. Currently we are working with an entrepreneur who is creating a new type of speaker — disruptive technology! This is an innovation that helps create a new market and value network, and eventually goes on to disrupt an existing market and value network, displacing an earlier technology.

Pursuing the Dream So in the spirit of TED — What if E-L built a nationwide commercialization center for consumer goods and manufactured products? What if E-L held a national competition and invited 10 targeted finalists to attend a commercialization boot camp? What if we then recruited and invested in the best of the best to develop new regional employers? We are currently in conversations with private investors to develop a seed fund that would support this program — people in the region are beginning to believe.

Visit www.TED.com to learn more.

Sherry Pritz is marketing coordinator at EIGERlab, Rock Valley College.

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January 2013

Innovations: The future of ‘Made in Illinois’ Associated with higher returns, employee wages Hundreds of small and mid-sized manufacturers in Illinois and across the United States have built profitable enterprises following this simple formula. Make quality products. Ship them on time. Repeat.

Intense global competition, however, has changed the game considerably. To survive — and thrive — manufacturers today must consistently differentiate their products and services, aggressively seek new customers in domestic and international markets, and deploy advanced technology and business processes.

The key to achieving all that? One word: Innovation.

Striving to Be ‘Meaningfully Unique’ “It doesn’t matter if it’s product, process, organizational or marketing innovation,” said David Boulay, president of the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC), headquartered at Bradley University in Peoria. “If a manufacturer in Illinois is not being meaningfully unique to its customers or potential customers, then the only option is to be a low-cost provider — and that is not a long-term viable option given global competition.”

Illinois manufacturers agree. Ed Wolbert is president of Streator-based Transco Products, which supports the power and process industry and currently does more than 70 percent of its business in Asia. “In traveling the world and seeing the strengths and weaknesses of other countries, the one thing that is distinctive about the United States is our creativity and innovation,” Wolbert said. “For Illinois to thrive in the global economy, innovation will have to be at the forefront.”

Both Boulay and Wolbert stress that innovation must extend far beyond simply inventing new products or services. As he visits manufacturers across the state, Boulay is encouraged by what he views as a growing innovation mind shift. “We’re seeing a focus on building cultures of continuous improvement or

continuous change,” he said. “These are cultures that never accept the status quo and use that mindset to create new approaches to products and processes.”

Wolbert also believes innovative thinking must pervade every level of a successful manufacturing enterprise.

“Companies that really get innovation look at it from top-level development of strategy all the way to day-to-day tactical implementation of strategy,” he said.

“Innovative organizations are outwardlooking, guided by customer pull and continuously learning and implementing world-class practices.”

Results of recent manufacturing studies support this emphasis on innovation. A 2012 study conducted by Georgia Tech University revealed that innovation strategies are associated with the highest mean return on sales for manufacturers — more than 10 percent — as well as higher employee wages. In the most recent national Next Generation Manufacturing Study, more than 800 manufacturers from across the country ranked process improvement (87 percent) and customer-focused innovation (84 percent) as the two most important factors in their organization’s success over the next five years.

Manufacturing in Illinois From earthmoving equipment to automobiles, from medical devices to consumer products, Illinois is home to 20,000 manufacturers who employ nearly 600,000 people and generate more than 13.5 percent of the state’s GDP. Makers of some of the world’s best-known brands, manufacturers are supported by a rich network of suppliers and component manufacturers and staffed by the most productive workforce in the world. Illinois manufacturers are a significant driver of innovation and exports and account for more investments in research and development than any other sector.

Unfortunately, this study also reveals a gap. Only 43 percent of those same manufacturers believe their current process improvement and innovation efforts are progressing towards worldclass status. It’s clear many small and mid-sized companies need assistance as they strive to remain competitive and profitable into the next generation. And that’s where organizations like IMEC come into play.

Manufacturing Improvement, and Innovation, Specialists Established in 1996, IMEC serves as the Illinois center for the National Institute of Standards and Technology Manufacturing Extension Partnership program. Every day, in facilities from Chicago to Carbondale, the non-profit organization’s 35 full-time specialists work with manufacturers to solve problems and improve performance.

Each year, these projects generate more than $100 million in sales, productivity and cost-saving improvements for Illinois companies — which translates into a 20-to-1 return on every dollar invested in IMEC’s assistance.

Manufacturing leaders like Wolbert, who also serves on IMEC’s board

Four Types of Innovation

Product: Technologically new products or significantly improved existing products.

Process: Technologically new or significantly improved practices, technologies or delivery.

Organizational: New or significant changes in a manufacturer’s structure, management methods or information exchange systems.

Marketing: New or significant changes to packaging, design, sales methods or distribution channels.

Source: 2012 Georgia Manufacturing Study

of directors, appreciate what the organization brings to the table. “Small and mid-sized Becky Brown enterprises Brown Ink generally have an edge in being nimble and highly flexible,” he said. “On the other hand, most of us are resource-constrained, particularly in the areas of strategy, performance, training and continuous improvement.

These are all areas where organizations like IMEC have developed tools and training that can strengthen our businesses.”

Those tools and training typically fall into five areas: continuous improvement, sustainability, workforce, supply chain and, of course, innovation, where IMEC’s specific services include sales and marketing diversification, exporting, product development and technology automation — although Boulay would argue innovation is a key component and outcome of all IMEC’s offerings.

“Our responsibility is to be a guide for manufacturing leaders. We serve as a partner, supporting the definition of objectives, exploring solutions, determining a path and pulling together the right expertise to fit a company’s needs,” Boulay said. “We ensure that knowledge and skills are transferred to the manufacturer’s team so they can sustain and grow their efforts. In many respects, all of our work is innovation because we are seeking to help improve the current state and change the status quo.”

Becky Brown is a freelance writer and former corporate speechwriter of 17 years of experience with Brown Ink. The views expressed are those of Brown’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Manufacturing Update is sponsored by IMEC.

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January 2013

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Issues to Watch LEGISLATIVE UPDATE The Illinois Chamber pursues an aggressive agenda in Springfield and works with member businesses to make state government business-friendly and the Illinois business climate competitive. The following are legislative positions the Illinois Chamber has taken in the areas of business regulation and economic development/infrastructure. Visit ilchamber.org.

Requires publicly traded companies that do business in the State of Illinois to file with the Secretary of State for public review information concerning the corporation’s income tax liability.

Information that the IRS or any other federal statute requires to remain confidential may not be disclosed.

Sponsor: Senator Cullerton (D-Chicago)/Rep. Currie (D-Chicago) Status: Passed Senate 30-27, Referred to House Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose

implementing language to meet the July 13th effective date for the tribunal. Legislation is based on the American Bar Association Model State Administrative Tax Tribunal Act, and allows taxpayers an independent forum in which to protest tax assessments. Taxpayers can access the Tax Tribunal without having to pay the tax assessment first, and can appeal adverse decisions directly to the Illinois appellate courts. Chamber initiative.

Sponsor: Rep. Zalewski (D-Chicago)/ Senator Hutchinson (D-Chicago) Status: Sent to Governor Illinois Chamber Position: Support

State Community Bank HB2064/HB5010

Sales Tax Penalty HB5289

TAXES Corporate Tax Disclosure and Responsibility Act SB282

Establishes a state-run community bank of Illinois.

Sponsor: Rep. Flowers (D-Chicago) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committees Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose

Adds Class 3 and 4 criminal penalties for inaccurate sales taxes.

Sponsor: Rep. Turner (D-Chicago) Status: Sent to Governor Illinois Chamber Position: Neutral with amendment

EDGE Grants HB3934

Continental Shelf HB5342

Amended, would require DCEO to post the terms of each EDGE agreement on its website.

Sponsor: Rep. Franks (D-Woodstock) Status: Public Act Illinois Chamber Position: Neutral with amendment

NOL Carry Forward HB4038

Removes a provision limiting the net loss carryover deduction to $100,000 for any taxable year ending on or after Dec. 31, 2012 and prior to Dec. 31, 2014. Provides that, for any taxable year ending on or after Dec. 31, 2012, such a loss is allowed as a carryback to each of the two taxable years preceding the taxable year of the loss and is allowed as a net operating loss carryover to each of the 20 taxable years following the taxable year of the loss.

Sponsor: Rep. Tracy (R-Quincy) Status: Re-referred to Rules Illinois Chamber Position: Support

Ammunition Tax HB5167

Imposes a 2% surcharge on firearms ammunition.

Sponsor: Rep. Cassidy (D-Chicago) Status: Re-referred to Rules committee Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose

Tax Tribunal HB5192

The creation of an independent Illinois Tax Tribunal was authorized by SB 397 during veto session, without providing implementation language.

The Illinois Chamber convened a working group of tax experts to draft

Taxes offshore oil riggs operated by Illinois companies.

Sponsor: Senate President Cullerton (D-Chicago) Status: Placed on House Calendar Order of Concurrence Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose

Satellite TV Tax HB5440

Puts a 5% tax on satellite television services.

Sponsor: Senate President Cullerton (D-Chicago) Status: Placed on House Calendar Order of Concurrence Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose

Net Operating Loss Restoration HB5473

Corrects an oversight regarding the restoration of net operating losses up to 20 years.

Sponsor: Rep. Lang (D-Skokie) Status: Re-referred to Rules committee Illinois Chamber Position: Support

Tobacco Tax SB1829

Allows municipalities to impose a tax on tobacco.

Illinois Chamber Holiday Survey - 2013 For many years, the Illinois Chamber of Commerce has followed the tradition of conducting a survey to determine how Illinois employers will be handling paid holidays in the upcoming year. Here’s the results from its annual paid Holiday Survey of nearly 500 Illinois businesses for 2013.

2013 Holidays Date

Jan. 1 New Year’s Day Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Jan. 21 Feb. 12 Lincoln’s Birthday President’s Day Feb. 18 Feb. 22 Washington’s Birthday Casimir Pulaski’s Birthday March 4 March 29 Good Friday Memorial Day May 27 July 4 Independence Day Sept. 2 Labor Day Columbus Day Oct. 14 Nov. 5 Election Day Veterans Day Nov. 11 Nov. 27 Thanksgiving

paid full day off

paid half day off

Nov. 28

Nov. 29 Christmas Eve Dec. 24

paid full day off

paid half day off Dec. 25 Christmas New Year’s Eve Dec. 31

paid full day off

paid half day off Employees Birthday

Floating Holiday (1+) Jewish Holidays (1+) Average number of paid holidays Average number of paid personal days

% Firms Observing as Paid Holiday 98.7% 20.5% 2.7% 22.6% 1.6% <1.0% 35.5% 97.9% 98.1% 97.2% 13.0% <1.0% 15.1% 3.7% 4.3% 97.2% 73.3% 49.6% 20.5% 97.7% 30.9% 17.2% 3.0% 3.8% 0.4% 9.1 2.9

Sponsor: Sen. Kotowski (D-Park Ridge) Status: Re-referred to Assignments Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose

R&D Extension SB2523 Extends the Research & Development an extra five years for a total of a 10year extension.

Sponsor: Sen. McCarter (R-Highland) Status: Re-referred to Assignments Illinois Chamber Position: Support

Net Operating Loss Restoration SB3215 Restores the net operating losses taken away in 2011 for 2012 to 2014.

Chamber initiative.

Sponsor: Sen. Garrett (D-Highwood) Status: Re-referred to Assignments Illinois Chamber Position: Support

Veterans Tax Credit SB3241 Increases the income tax credit to 20% for employers that hire veterans, but shall not exceed $5,000.

Sponsor: Rep. Costello (D-Sparta)/ Sen. Sullivan (D-Quincy) Status: Public Act Illinois Chamber Position: Support

Enterprise Zone Extension SB3253 Extends enterprise zones for an additional 20 years. Chamber initiative.

Sponsor: Sen. Frerichs (D-Champagin) Status: 3rd Reading Illinois Chamber Position: Support

Enterprise Zones SB3688 An enterprise zone shall be in effect for 55 years instead of the current 30.

Sponsor: Sen. Frerichs (D-Champaign) Status: Passed Senate, House Rules Illinois Chamber Position: Support

Graduated Individual Income Tax HJRCA12/SJRCA5 Individual income taxes may be at a graduated or a non-graduated rate.

Provides that any such tax imposed on corporations shall be at a nongraduated rate, not to exceed the average of the lowest and highest individual rates by more than a ratio of 8 to 5.

Sponsor: Rep. Jakobsson (D-Champaign)/Sen. Raoul (D-Chicago) Status: Tabled Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

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January 2013

Rockford College PERSPECTIVE

Professionals share life experiences with area high school students Ten fields explored at Rockford College Career Day

Not only were students provided with the opportunity to ask questions and have open dialog with local professionals, but for many area students, this was their first time setting foot on a college campus.

As we welcome in the New Year, reflection and change is upon us. This is a season to examine the past and set goals for the future -- not only personal goals, but goals for the City of Rockford.

Many of these goals can only be achieved through local businesses and organizations working together. Because of this, collaboration is a key goal of Rockford.

The greater Rockford area has begun to recognize the importance of self-sustainability. This is very apparent judging by the actions of local organizations, which emphasize attracting and retaining talent. Most importantly we must not lose sight of the value of producing talent. The talent we produce is more likely to feel committed to the area and return to its roots.

Many individuals are destined to accomplish great things no matter where they are located. But witnessing the success of a homegrown leader in his or her community can do wonders for the emotions of a region. The effect can become cyclical.

As the third most populous city in Illinois, Rockford is more than capable of creating tomorrow’s leaders, but this cannot be accomplished unless businesses, non-profit organizations, and schools collaborate on a more routine basis. By hosting events like High School Career Day and Entrepreneurship Day, Rockford College shows its commitment to partnering with local schools and businesses to remind the community of

the most important thing any of us can invest in for the sake of a sound future -- our youth.

Dell Kinney, Rockford Rescue Mission, (right) is one of 30 professionals who discusses their career fields with area high school students at Career Day at Rockford College.

Career Day at Rockford College

encouraged students to pursue their passions: Dr. Ehren Jarrett, incoming superintendent of Rockford Public Schools, spoke on “Career Planning and the Importance of Higher Education.”

Einar Forsman, president & CEO, Rockford Chamber of Commerce, spoke on “Choosing a Career Path.”

Michelle Borgialli, import/export specialist, Thermo Fisher Scientific, spoke on “Gaining Experience.”

Ginnie Weckerly, human resource director, Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois, spoke on “Presenting Yourself to Employers.”

Career Day, hosted by Rockford College on Nov. 29, brought together 30 professionals from 10 different fields representing several local businesses and organizations. These volunteers spent their time rotating from table to table discussing their career fields with 200 students from Auburn, Belvidere North, Boylan, East, Guilford, Harlem, Jefferson, South Beloit and Roosevelt high schools. Throughout the day, each table of students spent 10 minutes with 10 different local professionals. Not only were students provided with the opportunity to ask questions and have open dialog with local professionals, but for many area students, this was their first time setting foot on a college campus.

One of the highlights of Career Day was the four guest speakers, who shared invaluable personal life experiences, relevant professional expertise, and

Talks by People You Should Know The event would not have been possible without collaboration between Rockford College and the Career Day volunteers. Another example of collaboration is an upcoming series of free talks given by the “People You Should Know,” and presented by

Join us for free talks by the People You Should Know Andreas Schell, UTC Aerospace Systems Wednesday, Feb. 6 Rockford College, 5100 building Noon to 1 p.m.

Contact Lauren Kepler, 815-226-4021 or lkepler@rockford.edu Space is limited to 50 attendees on a first-come, first-served basis.

Rockford College and the Rockford Chamber of Commerce. These talks will be held once a week at Rockford College for students and the community and videotaped for those unable to attend. Andreas Schell, UTC Aerospace Systems, will kick off the series on Feb. 6. Space is limited to 50 attendees on a first-come, first-served basis.

Reflection and resolutions are seasonal words that will fade, but Rockford’s commitment to collaboration and cooperation will not. This movement has infiltrated many aspects of our economy -- from local area private businesses to our educational systems.

Events like Rockford College Career Day are just the start for professionals willing to volunteer their time to benefit the entire Rockford area.

Lauren Kepler is an MBA student at Rockford College and administrative assistant in the graduate office. Casey Lepke is an MAT student at Rockford College and graduate assistant for the MAT program. Chris Olson and Nitin Prashar are MBA students at Rockford College and graduate assistants for the MBA program.

The views expressed are those of Kepler’s, Lepke’s, Olson’s and Prashar’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

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January 2013

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Survey demonstrates chamber membership an effective business strategy A national survey of 2,000 adults reveals that being active in a local chamber of commerce is an effective business strategy, because two-thirds of consumers believe that such companies use good business practices, are reputable, care about their customers, and are involved in the community.

The study, conducted by The Schapiro Group, an Atlanta-based strategic consulting firm, found consumer perceptions of chamber members to be positive in many ways.

When consumers know that a small business is a chamber member, they are 49 percent more likely to think favorably of it and 80 percent more likely to purchase goods or services from the company in the future.

If a company shows that it is highly involved in its local chamber (e.g., is a chamber board member), consumers are 10 percent more likely to think that its products stack up better against its competition.

When consumers know that a national restaurant franchise is a chamber member, they are 68 percent more likely to eat at the franchise in the next few months.

When consumers know that an insurance company is a chamber member, they are 36 percent more likely to think favorably of the company.

Major Impact on Small Businesses Small businesses represent the largest segment of most local chamber membership rolls.

If respondents know that a small business is a member of its local chamber, the business enjoys a 73 percent increase in consumer awareness and a 68 percent increase in its local reputation.

Large Restaurant Chains When consumers know that a restaurant franchise is a member of the chamber, they are: ■■ 15 percent more likely to report knowing a lot about the franchise.

■■ 58 percent more likely to eat at the franchise more often.

■■ 37 percent more likely to think favorably of the franchise.

Among consumers who do not eat at the franchise so often, those who are aware that the franchise is a chamber member are 33 percent more likely to hold favorable opinions of the franchise.

Among consumers who hold less favorable opinions of the franchise, those who are aware that the franchise is a chamber member are 65 percent more likely to eat there in the coming months.

Insurance Companies When consumers know that an insurance company is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are: ■■ 29 percent more likely to report knowing a lot about the company.

■■ 36 percent more likely to consider buying insurance from it.

Among consumers who hold less favorable opinions of the insurance company, those who are aware that the company is a chamber member are 25 percent more likely to consider purchasing insurance from it. Among those who have not considered purchasing insurance there in the past, chamber membership increases that likelihood by 37 percent.

Automobile Manufacturers When consumers know that an auto manufacturer is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are: ■■ 21 percent more likely to have a favorable opinion of that company.

■■ 31 percent more likely to consider purchasing their next car from that company.

Among those who have ever considered buying a car from a particular auto manufacturer, chamber membership leads to a 44 percent increase in consumers’ likelihood of purchasing a car there in the future.

The study was commissioned by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE), in cooperation with the Western Association of Chamber Executives.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

11

January 2013

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

Improving your grant proposal’s odds for being funded Lots of time and money is spent each year writing unsuccessful grant funding requests for non-profit organizations. A review of articles on the internet related to the success rates of grant writers shows a decline since the late 1990s. Many organizations had a success rate in the 30 to 40 percent range. Today, those same organizations have less than a 20 percent rate of return.

To increase an organization’s chances for success, it needs to build a solid foundation for its grant development program. The following three components are important tools to build that strong foundation.

■■ Will

Build the Team

and project development well before a

The first step is to organize a team of individuals with different skill sets. It is very difficult for one individual to carry the entire load. A team provides a non-profit with all of the skills to be successful.

Membership of a grant writing team should include:

this

project need to be sustained?

David Buchen Rock Valley College

How

will that be accomplished?

■■ What will a basic budget?

■■ Where are you planning to solicit funds?

It

is

very

important

that

the

leadership have a good understanding of the project and its impact on the organization before the team moves forward in trying to secure funding. It is essential to begin work on a concept request for proposal (RFP) is announced by your funding source. Time is needed to develop grant ideas. Often an RFP is announced three or four weeks or less before an application is due.

Research Funding Sources

■■ A content or project specialist to provide The third step requires the team an overview of the concept and know the to research potential funding sources. vital points to be addressed.

Government funding can include local, city, ■■ A grant writer with the knowledge of county, state or federal sources. Foundation what needs to be in a proposal to meet funding source requirements and the skills funding can include local organizations, to write an explanation of the project that state and/or national foundations. Each has will be understood by the reviewers. requirements that must be met.

■■ Non-profit accounting personnel to Grants.gov provides access to federal provide accurate information for a sound government funding sources and contains budget. grant email alerts with the latest updates ■■ An individual with authority to make on new RFPs available. The first step for organizational decisions and assist in applying for a federal grant is to register, partnership building. This individual can which can take several weeks, so start with provide information on how the project can be sustainable and ensure the project the registration process as soon as possible.

The Rockford Public Library has meets the organization’s mission and longterm goals.

a major foundation database updated

■■ A strong editor to review the proposal for errors, which can distract the reviewer.

This team should have an opportunity to work together before a major project is attempted. One individual oversees the development process and makes major decisions related to the project.

each year by the Foundation Center with

Provide Leadership

state and foundation grants for a number of

■■ What is the subject or topic area?

■■ Who will benefit?

detailed grant maker profiles to help you find foundations that fund organizations like yours.

David Buchen manages the grant office at Rock Valley College and has written successful federal, organizations.

The views expressed are those of Buchen’s and

do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford ■■ How does the project fit into the Chamber of Commerce. organization’s mission and strategic plan?

■■ What specific problems does the proposed project address?

Grant Workshop Series

■■ What will be the major objectives?

The Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence offers a workshop series in early spring, 2013, on developing a small grant request for $6,000 to $12,000.

Contact Karen Ream at kream@ rockford.edu.

■■ Who are the internal or external partners needed to implement this project?

■■ How will this project impact your organization?

■■ What additional resources are needed?

Matching funds?

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FOCUS ON ACCOUNTING & TAX PREPARATION SERVICES

January 2013 theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

Having the right documents makes filing accurate, tax returns easier Among the greatest enemies to the success of a business is mismanagement of resources. Maintaining accurate, organized financial records helps smallbusiness owners keep an eye on how much money is coming in, how much is going out, and for what expenses. This type of good recordkeeping is a yearlong task that also can make filing accurate tax returns easier. Now is a good time to make sure you know what documents you will need to file your taxes, which can save you time and money in April.

The obvious components of good recordkeeping are being organized, and knowing which documents are important to have and how long to keep them. This even applies to small-business owners who leave the preparation of their tax returns to professionals. Being knowledgeable about these documents means they will know what documents they need to keep, how long they need to be kept and how to get copies of them if needed.

The envelopes of some important tax documents will actually have “important tax document” printed on the front. But also be on the lookout for emails from financial institutions, brokers and others notifying you that tax documents are available via their websites.

Small-business owners can use this list to help them begin to compile the documents needed to fill out their tax returns:

Jennifer Kurzynski H&R Block

records electronically, make sure the system is compatible with IRS electronic storage system requirements.

■■ Receipts, invoices and bills documenting business expenses.

Keep these in addition to credit card statements, because they are more detailed accounts of your transactions.

■■ Mileage log documenting car use for business purposes. Keep track of the purpose, date and length of trips.

■■ Utility bills and records of repairs done to home office. Keep track of the percentage you can claim as a business expense.

■■ Health insurance payment receipts.

Keep these and other documents that substantiate the tax credits and deductions you claim.

Many important tax documents also are delivered to the IRS to ensure accurate income reporting and find audit candidates. Among the documents sent as part of this matching system are forms W-2 (wages), 1099-MISC (selfemployment income), 1099-INT (interest paid) and 1099-B (sale of stock).

If something shows up in the mail, and you are not sure if you will need it in April, save it. A professional bookkeeper or accountant can help you know exactly what you need based on the type of business you operate.

■■ Prior year federal and state tax returns. Keep all business tax returns permanently, along with insurance records and legal correspondence.

Jennifer Kurzynski is a tax instructor and tax professional with H&R Block, specializing in small business and individual tax returns.

■■ Business income records. Keep a record of all income in a ledger book or use a software program. If storing your

The views expressed are those of Kurzynski’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

FOCUS ON ACCOUNTING & TAX PREPARATION SERVICES

January 2013

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

February 2013 Special Sections

Educational Services

Consider reducing your tax exposure Investment income protection

Scot A. Dobbs Wipfli LLP

I am hopeful that by the time this article is published, the dust will have settled in Washington, and we will have a clear roadmap for tax planning in 2013. There certainly will be a lot of changes this year, and it will be imperative that you meet with your CPA, attorney, or financial planner to prepare for the coming changes.

Though the current tax landscape remains unclear, it is evident that the new 3.8% Medicare surtax on net investment income will be imposed in 2013. If you might be subject to this tax, you should consider ways to help reduce your exposure.

The Medicare surtax on net investment income is a 3.8% tax on the lesser of net investment income or modified adjusted gross income over $250,000 for taxpayer’s filing married filing jointly ($200,000 for single taxpayers). Net investment income includes interest and dividends, capital gains, nonqualified annuities, rents, royalties, and passive income. In addition, net investment income does not include any active trade or business or IRA distributions. If you are subject to this tax, you should consider ways to defer income, reallocate your investments, or increase your participation in passive activities.

Determining What is Taxable Maximizing your retirement account contributions will defer current income. Additionally, if you have been contributing to your employer’s Roth 401(k), you may want to consider contributing to your employer’s Traditional 401(k) instead. If available, nonqualified deferred compensation plans can defer additional income.

Nonqualified deferred compensation plans have strict guidelines and are not available with all employers.

Permanent life insurance and nonqualified annuities can also be used to defer income. Loans or distributions from permanent life insurance will not be considered investment income. However, distributions from nonqualified annuities will be taxable as net investment income. Keep in mind that life insurance is not an investment, and you should be sure that the life insurance amount meets your risk needs.

You should review your investment portfolio and consider reallocating to reduce your exposure to the Medicare surtax. Interest from municipal bonds

is exempt from federal tax, but they are typically subject to state income tax. In addition, they are not included in net investment income when calculating the Medicare surtax. You should closely compare after tax rates of taxable bonds to municipal bonds to be sure avoiding the Medicare surtax is in your best interest. You should evaluate moving higher income producing investments into tax deferred retirement accounts and moving lower income producing investments into taxable accounts.

Be sure to review the tax exposure in your taxable accounts on any potential capital gains before reallocating. If you are using mutual funds in your taxable accounts, you may want to contemplate using tax managed mutual funds. These types of mutual funds are designed to minimize buying and selling of shares that may generate taxable gains.

Passive activities are trades or businesses in which you do not materially participate. Passive activities are included in net investment income for calculating the Medicare surtax.

According to the IRS, you materially participate in an activity if you are involved in the operation of the activity on a regular, continuous, and substantial basis. If you have a trade or business that you do not materially participate in, reduce your exposure to the Medicare surtax by meeting the IRS requirements of material participation in the trade or business.

Make sure you closely review all of your passive activities before contemplating meeting the material participation requirements. Passive losses can only be deducted against passive income. If you are successful at reclassifying your passive income, you will not be able to utilize your passive losses against that passive income.

When reviewing your tax exposure this year, be sure to consider all factors of your finances. Besides taxes, you should be reviewing each possible transaction’s effect on your rates of return, risk needs, asset allocation, and your current cash flow needs.

Scot A. Dobbs, CPA, CFP(r), EA is a senior manager at Wipfli LLP who provides tax planning and compliance services to individuals and businesses.

The views expressed are those of Dobbs’ and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Manufacturing Innovations — Made in Rockford For information on advertising, call 815

987-8100

Mark your calendar!

Annual Dinner Jan. 24 • Giovanni’s, Inc. For more info, see page 23

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January 2013 theVoice rockfordchamber.com

FOCUS ON PRINTING & GRAPHIC DESIGN SERVICES

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

Content is King. Connection is Queen.

Content marketing, or the practice of communicating with your customers and prospects, is a way to build brand loyalty without outwardly selling your products or services. It’s the idea that if businesses share consistent and valuable information they will create loyal customers who will in turn push out the company information to their friends.

Like the Faberge shampoo commercials, ‘You’ll tell two friends, and they’ll two friends and so on and so on,” good content marketing will help you engage current customers and secure new ones.

As businesses look for ways to get more market share, traditional marketing strategies are no longer as effective. Consumers are overwhelmed with advertising ‘noise’ and most likely will tune out. With a focused content marketing strategy, businesses have a better shot at getting their customers’ attention. But don’t put out content just for content’s sake. There is a fine line between good content and spam.

If you bombard them with irrelevant information that is too sales-oriented in tone, you run the risk of losing customers.

Good content tells a story and helps you engage, inspire and change your customers’ behavior.

Getting Started.

Every company has a story to tell. These stories help humanize the organization, create a connection with your audience, and build brand loyalty. Now it’s time to put a plan in place to use it to your best advantage.

Here are three tips to get you started: Develop a roadmap. Before you take a trip you plan your route, right? Or, you at least type your destination into the GPS –you just don’t get in the car and start driving. It’s the same with your content marketing strategy. Developing a roadmap is essential to a successful strategy. Your road map should include:: ■■ Content marketing mission statement. Your mission statement should explain why you are executing your content strategy in the first place. Every person on the content marketing team must understand the vision and develop content that reflects that vision.

■■ Voice and tone. Will your content be formal or informal? Irreverent or authoritative? Most likely, you will have more than one employee writing your content, and having proper guidelines in place will ensure that everyone writes in the chosen ‘company voice.’

■■ Choose your touchpoints. Often, there is confusion between content marketing and social media marketing.

Social media networks are used to push out the content you develop. Your content should reside on your company website and the social media networks such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Pinterest are tools to push your content out and pull customers back to your site. Depending on your type of business, you’ll want to utilize the social media networks that are the best fit. I work with a client who has found success with Pinterest. The client is a retail food service store and Pinterest is a great way for them to share party and meal planning information with consumers and direct them back to the corporate site. I also work with clients in some B2B industries where Pinterest isn’t currently an appropriate resource in their marketing toolbox.

Be the Expert. This may sound crazy, but it’s time to take your sales hat off.

Content marketing means you must change your mind set – you are not selling product X, Y or Z, you are providing valuable information and becoming a trusted leader in your industry. By becoming the expert, you will build customer loyalty without having to outwardly sell your brand.

Develop a Customer Question Plan.

The immediacy of the various social media Cassi Steurer networks is PR Etc., Inc. great for quickly engaging customers and creating a buzz around your company. It can also be a major headache if you aren’t able to respond to customer inquiries in a timely manner. Consumers today expect instant responses and this can scare many businesses away from developing a content marketing strategy. I recommend you embrace the opportunity and develop a plan that works with your available resources. The opportunities that arise from providing good customer service through a content marketing strategy far outweigh the negatives.

No matter the amount of marketing dollars allocated to content marketing, the fact of the matter is it’s either get on board or get left behind. The traditional marketing tools are not enough anymore and in order to succeed you would do well to put a content marketing strategy in place.

Cassi Steurer is an account executive at PR Etc., Inc. The views expressed are those of Steurer’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Manufacturing Economic Indicators Manufacturing and Trade Inventories and Sales

U.S. total business end-of-month inventories for October, 2012 were $1,619.2 billion, up 0.4 percent from last month. U.S. total business sales were $1,257.7 billion, down 0.4 percent from last month.

Manufacturing, Mining, Wholesale Trade, and Selected Service Industries

Manufacturing corporations’ seasonally adjusted after-tax profits were $132.5 billion for the third quarter of 2012, down $13.6 billion from second quarter of 2012.

Manufacturers’ Shipments, Inventories, and Orders

New orders for manufactured goods in October increased $3.8 billion or 0.8 percent to $477.6 billion.

Advance Report on Durable Goods Manufacturers’ Shipments, Inventories, and Orders

New orders for manufactured durable goods in October increased slightly to $216.9 billion.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

FOCUS ON PRINTING & GRAPHIC DESIGN SERVICES

January 2013

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

Content Marketing: Six critical strategies for 2013

New Year’s resolution:

Track your advertising!

Okay, be honest. Do you glance at the ads in this publication? I do. Is that because I co-own an advertising agency?

Maybe. But maybe it’s also because the ads I do glance at are the ones that are pretty well done. My next thought is usually to wonder if the ad is working for the company doing the advertising.

Many times, we begin to work with clients on a project or a full ad campaign and ask if what they’re currently doing is working. And, many times, the answer is, “I don’t know.” It’s hard to identify a solution when you can’t identify the exact problem.

If you use print ads, QR codes, email blasts, TV spots, direct mail, Facebook or any other form of advertising or marketing for your business, do you regularly ask yourself if those efforts are working for you?

So, how do you track your advertising this year to justify your ad budget for next year as well as make changes to your plan to improve the results?

Here are some trackable advertising ideas to get you started:

1. Create custom URLs for your campaigns.

If you don’t regularly check your web site statistics (meaning once a month or more), there’s no time like the New Year to start. If you don’t have web site statistics for your site, you should put down this newspaper and go contact your web firm or IT guy NOW. Create a custom URL (web site address) such as www.mycompany. com/specialxyz for advertisements in a specific publication. After the ad is published, track how many hits you get to that web page resulting from the ad. The page might have a special offer, coupon, discount or other useful information to encourage people to go there. Use only that URL for one publication so you can effectively track that one publication’s advertising results.

2. Place an ad prompt.

An ad prompt basically is a call to action that encourages the reader to do something such as “stop in and ask to see our new XYZ product line”. After the ad has run, keep track of how many requests you get for that product or service.

3. Use a QR code.

QR codes are great if you know how to use them. Many companies mistakenly place them in ads and literature directing people to the company’s home page. Since it does take a little effort for someone to scan a

15

Pam Maher

QR code with KMK Media Group, Inc. their phone, make your QR code enticing enough for someone to make the effort. The QR code could take them to a special coupon, sneak peek at a new product, invitation to an event or other attraction only available through the QR code. The code then can be tracked for effectiveness.

4. Send an email blast.

Many of our clients are shocked when they discover the world of email marketing metrics. When you receive an email blast from a company, they not only can see that you opened the email, but can tell when it was opened, what stories you clicked on and what links you went to from the eblast. Email marketing metrics are powerful tools to monitor the products, services and information people find most helpful and interesting about your company.

5. Plant a word-flag in the ad.

A word-flag is an unexpected, memorable name, word or phrase that customers will voluntarily mention in their efforts to be friendly or to “connect” with you. For example, one radio spot for an Italian restaurant explained the unusual childhood of “Little Joey,” the owner-operator of the business. Joseph had never been called “Little Joey” in his life, but a few hours after the campaign had launched, new customers were asking, “Are you Little Joey?”

For any advertising or marketing initiative, remember to answer these questions before you start: ■■ How would you describe your product or service in one short sentence?

■■ Who is your target audience or customer?

■■ What three key characteristics about your product/service do you want to convey to the customer?

■■ What aspect of your business sets you apart from others in the industry?

Of course, be sure to train your sales staff routinely to ask a new customer, “How did you hear about us?” and track those answers. That one simple step would provide valuable information in understanding the conversion between your marketing and your sales.

Happy advertising in the New Year!

Pam Maher is co-owner of KMK Media Group, Inc. The views expressed are those of Maher’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Traveling from show to show doing keynotes and mini workshops, at almost every event, content marketing sessions are standing-room only. Small business marketing professionals are hungry for any way to continue their content marketing journey and attract and retain customers with compelling content.

1. Develop your content marketing mission statement. In a survey of more than 1,000 people, only five percent have developed an editorial mission, or content marketing mission statement, for their content strategies. How can small businesses execute a content strategy if they don’t have a clear vision for why they are developing the content in the first place? Remember, it’s not about you … it’s about solving the problems of your customers.

2. A new mindset: Become the leading informational provider for your niche.

Is your organization’s mindset focused on being the leading provider of information for your customers? If not, why isn’t that your priority? Your customers and prospects can get their information from anywhere to make buying decisions. Why shouldn’t that information come from you?

3. Utility is key. I absolutely love the Charmin Clean Bathroom App. If you are desperate to find a clean bathroom nearby, and this app provides the answers for you, what do you think the odds are that you would buy Charmin the next time you go to the store?

You don’t have to be a big brand like these to create helpful content for your

customers. Take a hard look at your content and see if what you are producing is actually useful for your customers. Is it making their lives better or jobs easier in some way?

4. Define and answer your customers’ questions. This is so easy to do, yet most don’t do it. Do you have a system in place to compile the questions your customers are asking and post your answers to those questions on the web? The content opportunities that spring up from customer service and sales alone can support your content marketing strategy.

5. Employee involvement in content marketing. Take a look at these two projects: Indium’s From One Engineer to Another blog; and OpenView Venture Partners OpenView Labs project. These are two great small business examples of successful content initiatives that have helped to grow business, were developed from the ground up with a limited budget, and were driven almost entirely by employee content.

6. Co-creation. Andrew Davis’ new book “Brandscaping” discusses how content partnerships can work. Essentially, a brandscape is a collection of brands that work together to produce great content. It’s true that many small businesses struggle with finding the funding for content marketing projects. Why not work with non-competitive partners to develop amazing and compelling content for a similar customer?

Joe Pulizzi is a leading author, speaker and strategist for content marketing who founded the Content Marketing Institute.

Source: www.prnewswire.com

16

January 2013

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Member Profile PROFILE

A successful year As we turn the calendar to a new year, it is time to reflect on the previous twelve months. The visitor industry in the Rockford region made great strides in 2012. We welcomed new events, celebrated milestones with returning customers and set ourselves up for a strong 2013.

YMCA offers plenty of healthy options for local residents

By Paul Anthony Arco This month, several Rockford residents will head to the YMCA of Rock River Valley as part of their New Year’s resolution.

“It’s not easy to get some people here,” said Mike Brown, YMCA president and CEO. “It takes six weeks to form a habit.

The YMCA is a place that can help if you really want to accomplish your goals.

Diets don’t work without exercise.”

More than 30,000 residents belong to the YMCA’s seven branch operations. The I.D. Pennock Family YMCA, located downtown, has many activities and programs, including aerobic and strength training, wellness, fitness, and exercise classes, indoor track, racquetball, two indoor pools, two gymnasiums, youth fitness, and café. The YMCA’s newest facility, the Northeast Branch located on Orth Road, features a training center, exercise classes, indoor pool, gymnasium and child fitness center. Camp Winnebago, a 150-acre property located on North Main Street, offers a variety of summer and winter programming, from outdoor enrichment to team building activities.

The YMCA provides service regardless of ability to pay. Every year the organization raises money to help scholarship youth and families through the Strong Kids campaign.

“I look at it as a family experience,” said Brown. “I don’t view the YMCA as just a wellness center and a pool.

It’s a place where mom, dad and their children can spend time together. There is no other place in town that offers this type of experience with enough activities for each family member. Sprit, mind and body is what the YMCA represents.”

Community With Deep Roots in the YMCA Brown has spent more than 20 years working for YMCAs in California, Texas and Georgia. In 2011, he replaced Wray Howard, who retired as the local executive after a 43-year career.

“I wanted to be part of a community that had deep roots with the YMCA,” Brown said. “I identified Rockford as a place with lots of opportunity for change.

But it takes people to motivate people.

And I thought Rockford was a good place to raise my family.”

Since taking over, Brown has made difficult changes that impact the bottom line including eliminating 75 positions.

“Change is scary,” he said. “Hopefully, people can see the good we’ve done. I see the YMCA as a change agent in this community. The first 18 months was about getting us back on our feet. The next 18 months is about investing back into our membership and our facilities.”

Thanks to a $500,000 donation, facility upgrades will be starting soon at the I.D. Pennock location. The corporate offices recently moved from I.D. Pennock to its original location on East State and Madison streets. The YMCA is looking into adding a Cherry Valley branch and is exploring the possibility of managing two YMCA locations in Elgin, as well as a Wisconsin 1,000-acre campsite.

Eric Wilson and his family have been members of the YMCA for more than 15 years. They work out at least three to four times a week, splitting their time between the Northeast Branch and the I.D. Pennock. “I like the family atmosphere,” Wilson said. “The facilities are well maintained, they have a lot of variety in the equipment and the best indoor pools in town.”

The YMCA is busy recruiting 500 volunteers to work on various projects.

It also partners with churches, schools, businesses, the park and school districts.

Things are looking up. According to Brown, 2,800 new members have joined since last year.

“We’re getting lots of support,” he said. “People said I shouldn’t come here because there were too many negatives.

That motivates me even more. Eighteen months later, we’re not borrowing any money, we’re in the black, we’re investing in our facilities, and we’re hiring people back. The stars are aligning.”

YMCA of Rock River Valley Mike Brown, CEO and president 220 E. State St. (corporate office) Rockford, IL 61104 www.rockfordymca.org 815-987-2252

Reclaiming First Announced We started 2012 having just announced Reclaiming First. The master plan for sports facilities calls for the creation of an indoor sports complex along the Rock River in downtown Rockford and significant upgrades at Sportscore One and Two and the Indoor Sports Center.

In November, the City of Rockford and the Rockford Park District entered in to an agreement regarding ownership, funding and operation of the downtown indoor sports center. If all goes as planned, the facility will open in spring 2014.

A bill in Springfield authorizing Winnebago County to raise the hotel/ motel tax to help fund the project should be called for a vote when the Legislature goes back into session, Jan. 3 to 8. In the meantime, the Rockford Park District and City of Rockford, with assistance from RACVB, are working to select architecture and engineering firms that will work on the projects as soon as funding is finalized.

Visitor Spending Tops $300 Million Figures released by the State of Illinois in August show visitors to Winnebago County spent the highest amount ever recorded. Visitor spending increased 11.8 percent in 2011, totaling more than $311 million dollars. This was the first time expenditures topped the $300 million mark since the pre-recession level of $300.6 million in 2007. Those visitors also supported more than 2,620 jobs in Winnebago County and provided $5.07 million in local tax revenue.

ODP Returned After a two-year absence, Rockford welcomed back the U.S. Youth Soccer Region II Olympic Development Program (ODP) Boys’ Camps. The program, which is intended to identify future Olympic and college-level athletes, was drawn away from Rockford to a new, world-class soccer facility in Overland Park, Kan., in 2010 and 2011. Organizers returned the camp to Rockford for 2012 and 2013 because of the region’s many offerings, commitment to customer service and location.

Milestone Returns Several returning events recognized milestone anniversaries this year. The longevity of their relationships with the community serves as a testament to the warm welcome they receive.

Competitors have kicked up the dirt on the track in Rockford’s Searls Park for 25 years at the BMX Midwest Nationals

Competition.

The event brings approximately John Groh 6,000 racers Rockford Area Convention & and fans to the Visitors Bureau region each year from all over the world.

The Illinois High School Association Girls Bowling State Championships returned for the 20th straight year. The tournament draws 1,300 competitors, coaches and spectators.

Wrestlers hit the mats at BMO Harris Bank Center for the 10th consecutive year.

The Illinois Kids Wrestling Federation State Tournament brings nearly 1,500 athletes, coaches and spectators annually, who spend an estimated $350,000.

Celebrating Tourism RACVB celebrated National Tourism & Travel Week in May with its annual breakfast meeting. At the meeting RACVB announced the creation of a boarddesignated innovation fund, named in honor of the bureau’s founding president/ CEO Wendy Perks Fisher.

The fund was established with an initial investment of $100,000 and is designed to encourage innovation and new ideas that accelerate progress in our tourism industry. RACVB will work to grow that amount over time so it can replenish funds and allow for ongoing grant awards.

Looking to 2013 The Rockford region will host its first lacrosse tournament this year. The Rock River Cup, by NXTSports, will draw more than 3,000 players, coaches and fans to the region. They will fill an estimated 3,250 hotel room nights and spend an estimated $585,000. The tournament will help strengthen the Rockford region’s position as a leading sports destination and will make the region a contender for similar events in the future.

The region also will welcome more than 125 travel journalists from around North America as part of Travel Media Showcase 2013. The tradeshow will fill approximately 1,000 hotel room nights. More importantly, having these journalists here will help spread the word about Rockford as they write about our community in blogs and publications throughout the country.

If we maintain our pace with Reclaiming First, construction should begin on the indoor sports facility this year. The project will not only bring new life to the former Ingersoll building, it will also serve as a significant catalyst for downtown revitalization and transform our visitor industry landscape. The visitor industry faces an exciting future and it is up to us to ensure its success.

John Groh is president/CEO at the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

17

January 2013

IGNITE

Young Professionals

Time to champion the arts!

Remember back in grade school when you took part in your first school play or musical production, or brought home your first art project, and how excited you were to show it to your parents? Those kinds of memories can’t be replaced, and they’re just one of the many reasons why creative arts education is so important to our children’s future. Here at District 205, we recognize that importance in our children’s education and plan on increasing our support.

The Rockford Public School District’s leadership team has developed a plan to expand the district’s successful arts programs. Beginning in the fall of 2013, a creative arts curriculum will be implemented in all four of the district’s high schools, while keeping the specialized Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) program at Auburn.

Being able to offer high-quality arts programming to every Rockford School District high school student is the goal.

There would be many benefits for our students, the school district and community. An education that includes arts, such as theater, dance, band and chorus, not only inspires creativity but creative thinking, and can level the academic playing field for many students. It can provide our children with wonderful life skills, teach them the importance of teamwork, help them to learn how to take on a project and complete it, and develop problemsolving skills. The arts provide an environment where many students, who may feel out of place, can find themselves and develop a sense of self and build confidence. It’s an education that goes beyond a paper and pencil, and can lead students to artistically contribute to their schools and society.

Developing Arts Everywhere In order to provide our students with a well-rounded education that goes beyond classroom learning, we need to make arts education a priority in our schools. Whenever budget cuts are needed, it seems that the arts are targeted first for reductions in funding.

With our districts’ finances now on firm financial ground, this is the ideal time to expand our arts programs.

As part of our Readiness Rocks initiatives, we already have created a seventh hour in the middle and high schools, which gives us more opportunity and flexibility when it comes to increasing educational experiences in the arts. This multimillion dollar expansion of the arts curriculum will allow additional music, drama and art offerings for all of our students.

For those students in grades 6

to 12 wanting a more in-depth arts experience,

District

205

provides

the Creative and Performing Arts Program, also known as CAPA. The

Three-part plan for IGNITE moving forward

Educating, community involvement, networking

Tom McNamara IGNITE

CAPA program gives each student a unique real-life experience in one or more of the fine arts disciplines: Dance, Instrumental Music, Theatre-Tech and Media Arts, Vocal Music and Visual Arts. The program prepares students for the competitive world of the arts and provides experiences from a variety of periods, styles, forms and cultures.

The CAPA middle school program is located at West Middle School, while the CAPA high school program is located at Auburn High School.

Join in the CAPA Open House, Jan. 15 But any program will only go as far as the quality of the people involved with

As we begin 2013, IGNITE is moving to a new and more sustainable strategic plan, in our goal to be an asset for Rockford by attracting and retaining young professionals.

IGNITE has been fortunate to have so many supporters, including the Rockford Chamber of Commerce, by housing the program and being the primary funder. The Chamber and IGNITE leadership are confident in its mission, and we are looking to reorganize ourselves to make the organization stronger and have an even greater impact on the Rockford region.

it. We’ve been very fortunate to bring

Our Plans for 2013

on board Lu Ann Widergren as our

The mission remains – Attracting and Retaining Young Professionals.

We plan to succeed in this mission in 2013, by utilizing a three-pronged approach: 1. Assisting in the education and development of YPs through:

director of fine arts. Widergren worked as the fine arts coordinator for the district for five years before winning the Golden Apple Award for Outstanding Principal of the Year for her work at Brookview Elementary School.

We hope District 205 students and their parents will continue to show the deep support and interest they have in the past. Our CAPA Open House will take place on Jan. 15 at West Middle School, and we encourage all who are interested to attend. Auditions will begin in February and last until April. While some may find the idea of auditioning challenging, our encouraging staff members work with students to alleviate performance anxiety. We make it our goal to help every child who auditions feel comfortable and accepted. Our staff members are skilled at making adjustments to bring out the very best in every child who shows an interest in the program. For more information about the CAPA program auditions, please contact Lu Ann Widergren at 815-520-4290.

The CAPA program reflects an investment in differentiation through the arts. It is time to expand this outstanding program that will lead to even more creative and talented graduates.

Arts

make

a

positive

difference in the Rockford community.

Dr. Robert Willis is interim superintendent of Rockford Public Schools.

The views expressed are those of Dr. Willis’ and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

■■ Our Lunch Outside the Box Series, which is lead by community leaders.

■■ Our Professional Development Book Club.

■■ Continuing our partnerships with great organizations such as Lydia’s Academy, Alignment Rockford’s Math Tutoring Program, and United Way’s IREAD Initiative.

2. Getting YPs more involved in the community: ■■ By promoting more volunteering initiatives, some of which will be through the Future Leaders Program.

■■ Connecting YPs to local non-profit boards.

■■ Actively pursuing opportunities to work with local companies to help with employer services and employee recruitment.

3. To bring YPs together for social events that foster an environment professionally beneficial to all attendees. Some events may include: ■■ After 5 Networking for YPs. Bash, ■■ IGNITE Anniversary where we recognize young leaders and organizations who understand the importance of retaining young, educated talent.

■■ Roaring Rockford Membership Party.

■■ IGNITE Golf Outing.

As stated above, the work of IGNITE is important to the community, and we plan to strengthen our commitment to attract and retain YPs to our great city. Our work now is more important than ever, and we appreciate your support and involvement.

If you have questions or would like to get more active as the organization moves forward, please contact me at tmcnamara6@gmail.com or 815-8774100.

Tom McNamara is president of IGNITE. He works as an agent for Eckburg and Bates Insurance Company. Visit www. igniterockford.com.

18

January 2013

the News IN Members THEin NEWS

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

1. Rebecca Epperson

2. Michael Letsinger

3. Wilbert J. Friesen

4. Maryjo F. Pirages

5. Chris Davenport

6. Nichole Ingram

7. Kevin Kubat

8. Chris Klarman

9. Stephanie Lammi

10. Erin Ladwig

11. Cheryl Rice

12. Daniel A. Huntley

13. Dr. Susan Feder

14. Dr. Sabrina Hofmeister

15. Beth Thacker

16. Jason Lamm

Board Appointments

Rebecca Epperson (1), president and CEO of PR Etc., joined the Rockford Symphony Orchestra board, initially for a one-year term.

She also was chosen as chairperson of the 2013 Go Red for Women® luncheon in Rockford.

Michael Letsinger (2), vice president of Pearson, was re-elected president of the Northern Illinois PlumbingHeating-Cooling Contractors Association for 2012-2013 at the December meeting.

New Hires, Promotions, Retirements Judson University appointed Wilbert J. Friesen (3) as permanent provost and Chief Academic Officer.

The law firm of Holmstrom & Kennedy, P.C., hired Maryjo F. Pirages (4) as an associate attorney.

Chris Davenport (5) joined Broadmoor Agency Inc., as producer.

Rockford Mutual Insurance Company hired Nichole Ingram (6) and Kevin Kubat (7) as product analysts.

KMK Media Group, Inc., hired Chris Klarman (8) as

communications assistant and Stephanie Lammi (9) as communications manager.

Klaas Financial inc., hired Erin Ladwig (10), CFP, as an investment advisor representative in Madison, Wis., and Cheryl Rice (11) as a receptionist in Loves Park.

The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois announced the retirement of Vice President and Senior Program Officer Barbara Nelson after 22 years. James Patterson is the new director of grants and scholarships and Linda Sandquist the director of community engagement. Laura Schweitzer was hired as grants associate.

Midland States Bank hired Keith J. Akre as wealth management portfolio manager.

Daniel A. Huntley (12) joined WilliamsMcCarthy LLP as an associate in the transactional law group, concentrating on corporate law, real estate law, and agribusiness law.

Dr. Susan Feder (13), board-certified in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry, joined Aspen Counseling and Consulting as the newest psychiatrist.

Sabrina Hofmeister, D.O. (14), joined the Family Medicine Practice at the Crusader Community Health on Broadway-Uram Building in Rockford.

Beth Thacker (15) and Jason Lamm (16) were appointed financial representatives for Northwestern Mutual, The Krueger Financial Group in Rockford.

Employee/Community Recognitions, Awards Special education student Matt Langton was named the Judson University Student Lincoln Laureate —the school’s top senior.

Kavin Arasar, second year medical student from University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, was named the overall winner in the biochemistry/cell biology category at the American Medical Association Research Symposium in Honolulu.

Samantha Stovall (17), program manager with the Electric Systems division of UTC Aerospace Systems, was named Mentor of the Year by Nobscot Corporation, maker of the Mentor Scout™ talent management system.

SwedishAmerican Health System presented Betty Henry Community

Service Awards to Rebecca Shaffer (18), cancer survivor, and Diane Scoville (19), director of oncology services. The 2012 Betty Henry Corporate Service Award went to Shelly Hall, creator of “Joy Bags,” fabric totes given to oncology patients.

Gabriel Gonzalez (20), financial advisor at Savant Capital Management’s Geneva office, and Derek Carter (21), trader/ portfolio coordinator, Rockford office, earned Certified Financial Planner designations. Wendy Blair (22), financial advisor, Freeport office, earned the Accredited Investment Fiduciary designation, and Penny Post-Freeman (23), office manager and client services coordinator, Peoria office, earned the Registered Paraplanner designation.

Rockford Spine Center’s physicians were among only five percent given the 2012 Patients’ Choice Award: spine surgeons Dr. Michael Roh (24), Dr. Christopher Sliva (25) and Dr. Fred Sweet (26); physiatrist Dr. Marie Walker (27), and orthopedic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Behr (28).

Kristin Kellerman (29), financial representative at Klaas Financial inc., Madison, Wis., passed her Series 7.

17. Samantha Stovall

18. Rebecca Shaffer

19. Diane Scoville

20. Gabriel Gonzalez

21. Derek Carter

22. Wendy Blair

23. Penny PostFreeman

24. Dr. Michael Roh

25. Dr. Christopher Sliva

26. Dr. Fred Sweet

27. Dr. Marie Walker

28. Dr. Jeffrey Behr

29. Kristin Kellerman

30. Amy Ott

31. Dr. Michael Chmell

32. Bradley Gummow

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

January 2013

the News IN Members THEin NEWS

American Association of Airport Executives.

33. Kathy Velasco

34. Heather Kelley

The Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau gave an “It’s a Great Day in Rockford!” award to Andrea Mandala, marketing executive for Orput Companies, for promotion of Edgebook Shopping Center and its annual events.

Of GENERAL INTEREST Wipfli LLP’s Bob Cedergren, partner, and Jay Malmquist, manager, completed the Global Reporting Initiative Certified Sustainability Reporting course.

Amy Ott (30), deputy director of administration and finance at the Chicago Rockford International Airport, received the distinction Accredited Airport Executive by the

Dr. Michael (31) and Cynthia Chmell established an endowed scholarship for students attending the University of Notre Dame, with preference for those from northern Illinois. Dr. Chmell is a surgeon at Rockford Orthopedic Associates, Ltd., and alumnus of Notre Dame.

The Gummow Wealth Advisory Group joined the Metro Chicago Complex of Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. Led by Bradley Gummow (32), managing director – investment officer, the group includes Thomas Weightman, financial consultant; Emily Maney, registered client associate, and Kimberly Pollard, client associate.

Kathy Velasco (33) and Heather Kelley (34), V2 Marketing Communications, presented “What is Inbound Marketing?” to the Rockford Chamber’s Business Women’s Council, with six tools to build an online marketing engine that develops leads for company sales teams.

Do you have news to share?

Send news releases and other items of interest to the business community to: The VOICE, Rockford Chamber of Commerce, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190 Rockford, IL 61101. Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding p ­ ublication.

19

20

January 2013

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Business Briefs BUSINESS BRIEFS

LYDIA Urban Academy received a check from an anonymous donor for $20,000 to help provide high school students with a second chance to earn their diplomas. The money covers 10 percent of the cost to teach and provide resources for the school’s 20 students.

growth and process efficiency.

The Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau announced three big sporting events to return to the area in 2013: soccer’s Puma Cup, the Illinois Youth Soccer Association state cup tournaments and the BMX Midwest Nationals. Jointly, these events will generate an estimated $3 million dollars for the local economy.

PR Etc., received a Heart of Rockford award in the commercial or residential renovation category for the move and renovation of its 2,000-sq. ft. headquarters to 120 W. State St., in downtown Rockford.

SwedishAmerican Hospital was honored with an “A” Hospital Safety Score by The Leapfrog Group, which assigns scores to U.S. hospitals based on preventable medical errors, injuries accidents and infections.

Eclipse, Inc., and Weldments helped 23 boy scouts, ages 12 to 17, of Troop 620 of Roscoe earn their Welding Merit Badge with a welding class.

Christofferson Moving and Storage, Beloit, an agent of United Van Lines, received the President’s Club Award, $3 million level, for sales in the past year, and the Performance Excellence Award for focus on customers’ needs and expectations. It also received the Customer Choice Award for exceptional service scores based on post-move surveys.

V2 Marketing Communications completed the 2011 Annual Community Report for Rock Valley College. Altered Spaces Ltd., hired V2 Marketing to develop a corporate website for its design consulting services. V2 Marketing completed a three-day fall workshop for Chicago National Association of Dance Masters (CNADM) in Oak Brook, Ill. V2 Marketing is the organization’s managing firm. V2 Marketing was hired by International Surface Fabricators Association to design and format quarterly magazine, Countertops & Architectural Surfaces.

The Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau announced that the Rockford area will host its first-ever lacrosse tournament with the arrival of The Rock River Cup, organized by NXTsports, June 15 to 16, 2013 at Sportscore Two. Economic impact is $585,000.

Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity received a $5,000 grant from Bank of American Charitable Foundation for the purchase of building materials for four homes to be built by volunteers in 2013.

Discovery Center Museum has opened two new exhibitions focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), Figure it Out! and Simple Machines. Figure It Out focuses on exploring shapes and symmetry, sequences, shadows and transformations. Simple Machines gallery teaches about devices that alter magnitude or direction of a force.

Family-owned, Kirkland (Ill.)-based Blake Oil Company hired KMK Media Group, Inc., to develop a new brand identity to promote itself to prospective customers and launch its second location in Rockford. KMK also completed a new website for Winnebago County, which includes a directory of employees and departments.

Saint Anthony College of Nursing’s 79 bachelor’s degree graduates of December, 2011 and May, 2012 achieved a 100 percent first-attempt pass rate of the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses exam. It’s expected that less than 13 percent of other Illinois BSN programs will achieve a 100 percent pass rate.

Crusader Community Health received a 4.58 on a five-point scale (4 being good and 5 being excellent), based on a confidential patient survey at its four clinics.

Results were tabulated by Health Systems Research, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford. Nearly 97 percent of patients said that they would recommend Crusader to a friend or family member.

SwedishAmerican Hospital began the first of several capital improvement projects totaling $2.3 million in relocations and renovations to the respiratory therapy department, pediatrics and OB/GYN departments, and mother/ baby unit; a new critical decision unit, and $3.1 million in improvements to its surgery department beginning in 2013.

Al Grace Appliance & TV celebrates 50 years in the appliance industry in Rockford.

Chicago Rockford International Airport announced that Allegiant Travel Company will begin non-stop jet service on Thursdays and Sundays between Rockford and the Ft. Myers area via the Punta Gorda Airport beginning Feb. 14, 2013.

Flights are on sale at www. allegiantair.com.

The Rock Valley College Foundation awarded $99,927 for 2013 projects/equipment such as: iWorx Psychophysiology Kits; a Digital Cinema camera; server technology and equipment to create “virtual labs,” giving students 24/7 access to equipment needed to complete lab work; adult Basic Ed and GED course books and testing fees for low-income adult students, and books and workbooks for the refugee students enrolled in ESL (English as a Second Language).

Forest City Diagnostic Imaging received an ACR gold seal of accreditation for three years in computed tomography (CT), based on a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR).

Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois teamed with Northern Illinois University to collect clothing and other gently used items in December during the “Goodwill, Not Landfill!” student donation drive.

Rockford Data Management was contracted by Warranty Processing, inc., to build custom web-based business software to drive future

SwedishAmerican Hospital received word that its Telestroke partner, the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, is one of the first hospitals in the country to receive Comprehensive Stroke Center Certification from The Joint Commission and the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. UW Hospital, provides stroke consultations to SwedishAmerican via The Wisconsin Telestroke Program.

The Rockford Rescue Mission reported that 37 percent of its guests are experiencing homelessness, according to the 23rd annual Snapshot Survey conducted in October by the Association of Gospel Rescue Missions.

All My Walls Art & Decor, Eden Prairie, Minn., added artwork from Ingrid Dohm Studio and Art Gallery to its stable of art images replicated on painted steel. The architectural wall hangings have a three-dimensional visual effect comparable to a hologram.

The Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau gave an “It’s a Great Day in Rockford!” award to all three Red Mango locations, which welcome attendees at events and tournaments with coupons and discounts.

In December, SwedishAmerican Hospital’s Caring Canines therapy dog team of Alicia McKinney and her English Labrador Retriever, Ben, marked the 20,000th visit for the program. Caring Canines began in September, 2010, with a group of five therapy dog teams visiting patients in the Center for Mental Health, and now includes 21 teams visiting 12 different areas.

BMO Harris Bank made a contribution to LYDIA Urban Academy, where students have second chance to earn their high school diploma.

PR Etc., oversaw ribbon-cutting activities for new GFS Marketplace store in Toledo, Ohio, and Franklin, Wis., a suburb of Milwaukee.

Pearson service techs are installing a new type of thermostat a homeowner can control using a

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

21

January 2013

Regional, National Indicators THE ECONOMY Midwest Manufacturing Output Decreased in October

U.S. Indicators November, 2012 Consumer Price Index

q 0.3 percent

The Chicago Fed Midwest Manufacturing Index (CFMMI) decreased 1.2 percent in October, to a seasonally adjusted level of 92.1 (2007 = 100). The Federal Reserve Board’s industrial production index for manufacturing (IPMFG) moved down 0.8 percent in October. Regional output rose 5.9 percent in October from a year earlier, and national output increased 2.0 percent.

Unemployment Rate 7.7 percent Payroll Employment

 146,000

Average Hourly Earnings

 $0.04

Producer Price Index

q 0.8 percent

Employment Cost Index

 0.4 percent (third quarter, 2012)

Productivity

 2.9 percent (third quarter, 2012)

U.S. Import Price Index

q 0.9 percent

U.S. Export Price Index

q 0.7 percent

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Unemployment Rates—Region, State, Nation

Oct 2012

Sep 2012

Oct 2011

Rockford

10.8

11.0

12.6

q 0.2

q 1.8

Chicago

8.4

8.0

9.8

q 0.4

q 1.4

Illinois

8.4

8.1

9.6

q 0.3

q 1.2

United States

7.5

7.6

8.5

q 0.1

q 1.0

Business Briefs, Continued

The Rockford Park District since the 2008 recession has made about $3.4 million in mid-year budget adjustments or annual budget reductions, and more than $2 million has been cut to balance the 2013 budget. The park district presented the 2013 Budget and Appropriation Ordinance and Certification of Estimates of Revenue to the Board of Commissioners for initial review and discussion. The board also received the 2012 Tax Levy Ordinance for consideration. The proposed budget will be available for public review, and a public hearing held at 5 p.m., on Jan. 22, 2013.

The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois is calling for applicants by Feb. 1, 2013 for the Kjellstrom Women’s Scholarship Initiative. The scholarship is for women returning to an accredited college to enter or re-enter the workforce or enhance their careers.

Applicants must be from Winnebago County, at least 24

% Change

Aug 12

Sep 12

Oct 12

Oct 11 - Oct 12

Chicago Mfg. Index

93.8

93.2

92.1

 5.9

CFMMI-Auto

96.5

94.8

94.8

 13.5

CFMMI-Steel

91.2

90.1

89.6

 6.5

CFMMI-Machinery

93.1

93.0

90.7

 4.7

CFMMI-Resource

90.5

91.0

89.4

q 0.1

National Index

95.0

95.1

94.4

 2.0

Source: Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago Updated Nov. 27, 2012

Change/Mo. Change/Yr.

Source: U.S. Department of Employment Security

home computer or smart phone, even from thousands of miles away. The high-tech thermostats are made by Honeywell and can be installed in about an hour.

Monthly Index

years of age, with a high school diploma or equivalent. Visit www. cfnil.org/apply/scholarships.

Woodward, Inc., honored 13 local non-profit organizations at a luncheon in December, selected by the Rockford Site Committee to receive $531,000 in funding from the Woodward Charitable Trust.

Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois was chosen as one of six councils in the United States to pilot two varieties of Girl Scout Snack Bars in 2013: Tagalongs Snack Bars, and Double Dutch Snack Bars.

Judson University launched an Interior Design program, which now is open for enrollment of the 2013-14 academic year as a part of the School of Art, Design and Architecture.

Crusader Community Health now has a new clinic option, KIDS CARE NOW, for unexpected pediatric illness at 1100 Broadway, Rockford.

Walk-in pediatric care is available from noon to 7 p.m., Monday to Friday.

Judson University celebrated more than 150 graduates at the 68th commencement on Dec. 15.

Population Clocks As of December 15, 2012: U.S.

314,946,935 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

World 7,058,799,559

22

Rockford Chamber members appear bolded. Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members.

Thursday, January 3

Rockford Park District hosts Jr. IceHogs/Learn to Play Hockey at Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Road, Loves Park — weekly sessions with skates provided. Registration at www. rockfordparkdistrict.org or Carlson Ice Arena.

Friday, January 4

Shelter Care Ministries hosts its first Wine Tasting Event fundraiser at Artalé Wine Co., 6876 Spring Creek Road, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Patrons sample 20 to 30 varieties of wine and hors d’oeuvres by Josef Barbados. For tickets contact Carol West at 815-964-5520 or cwest@ shelter-care.org, or at the door.

Sunday, January 6

Harlem Globetrotters come to the BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St., in downtown Rockford at 2 p.m., for its 2013 “You Write the Rules” World Tour. For tickets, visit www.thebmoharrisbankcenter. com, the box office, or call 815-968-5222. Visit www. harlemglobetrotters.com with your kids to vote for the groundbreaking rule you want implemented in the game.

Friday, January 11

Rockford Art Museum hosts a lecture, Revealing the Intimate Nature of Trees, with Rockford artist Jeanne Ludeke, featured in the permanent collection, at noon at Riverfront Museum Park theater, 711 N. Main St. Contact 815-9682787 and staff@rockfordart museum.org.

Saturday, January 12

Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center presents Jacquie Manning and Rich Prezioso, a Chicago-area duo known as Small Potatoes, 7:30 p.m., as a part of its 2012-2013 Charlotte’s Web concert series.

The self-named eclecto-maniacs sing and play guitar, tin whistle, flute, mandolin, bodhran and other percussion toys. Call 815-964-9713 or visit www.mendelssohnpac.org.

January 2013

Community Events COMMUNITY

10 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring a scavenger hunt of the birds that are part of the Bird Count with the North Central Illinois Ornithological Society. Visit www.klehm.org.

Sunday, January 13

Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center presents French flutist Mathieu Dufour, principal flute of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, 2 p.m., Court Street United Methodist Church, 215 N. Court St., Rockford. For more information, call 815-964-9713 or visit www. mendelssohnpac.org.

Tuesday, January 15

Rockford Public Library and Community Foundation of Northern Illinois host a Community Scholarship Fair, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the main library auditorium, 215 N. Wyman St. Call 815-965-7606.

IL SBDC at Rock Valley College presents Kauffman FastTrac – Listening To Your Business, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the EIGERlab, 605 Fulton Ave. The half-day workshop provides entrepreneurs with the tools to gauge where their business is today, how they want it to look in three years, and the action steps to get there. Register at ilsbdc.ecenterdirect.com or call 815-921-2081.

Wednesday, January 16

YWCA of Rockford presents a Truth & Reconciliation Workshop with Nontombi Naomi Tutu, who will lead racial justice training. Include a community viewing and panel discussion of documentary, “Long Night’s Journey Into Day,” 6:30 p.m., Rockford College Maddox Theater. Register at www.ywca.org/ Rockford.

IL SBDC at Rock Valley College presents Profit Mastery, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., EIGERlab, 605 Fulton Ave. Register at ilsbdc. ecenterdirect.com or call 815-9212081.

Friday, January 18

Rockford Symphony Orchestra presents SoundBites hosted by Music Director Steven Larsen at noon at Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Country Club, 5151 Guilford Road. Reservations strongly recommended at 815-965-0049.

Saturday, January 19

Rockford Symphony Orchestra presents Arrival to the Modern Age, featuring Mahler: Adagio from Symphony No. 9, and Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring, 7:30 p.m., Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St. For tickets visit www.rockfordsymphony.com or 815-965-0049.

Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main St., hosts a free public opening, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., for Michele Feder-Nadoff: Between Heaven & Earth, on view through April 14. Free admission includes gallery walk at 11 a.m. Visit www.rockfordartmuseum.org, or contact 815-968-2787 or staff@ rockfordartmuseum.org.

The Rockford Symphony Orchestra presents Symphony Saturdays featuring the RSO Woodwind Quintet for children, 5 to 10, in Kresge Hall at Riverfront Museum Park, 711 N. Main St. Two performances at 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. or 11 a.m. to noon.

Call 815-965-0049 or visit www. rockfordsymphony.com.

Members Caught on Digital ON DIGITAL

Tuesday, January 22

Rockford Public Library presents the 4th Tuesday Book Club, 6:30 to 7:45 p.m., at the Main Library classroom C, 215 N. Wyman St. Discussion on The Swerve: How the World Became Modern, winner of the Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award for nonfiction. Registration not required. Call 815-965-7606.

Thursday, January 24

Stateline World Trade Association hosts a Workshop and Monthly Dinner Program at The Butterfly Club, 5246 E. County Road X, Beloit, Wis. Compliance workshop, 2 p.m.; networking, 5:30 p.m.; dinner/program on logistics, 6:15 p.m. RSVP by Jan. 22 to info@ slwta.org or 608 466-6131.

Saturday, January 26

Natural Land Institute hosts the Wander at the Wetland, Moonlight Snowshoe, Ski and Hike event at Nygren Wetland Preserve, 3190 W. Rockton Road, Rockton, 4 to 8 p.m. Admission free, donations accepted, registration requested.

Contact 815-964-6666, info@ naturalland.org by Jan. 24 or visit www.NaturalLand.org.

Tuesday, January 29

Rockford Park District hosts Learn to Skate at Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Road, Loves Park — weekly sessions with skates provided. Registrations at www.rockfordparkdistrict.org or at Carlson Ice Arena.

Wednesday, January 30 Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence hosts Leadership Café, noon to 1 p.m., Burpee Center, Rockford College, 5050 E. State St. Topic is, “Do you think of your employees, former employees, donors, clients, board members, or grantors as a liability risk?” RSVP five days prior at 815-394-4384 or email kream@rockford.edu.

Rockford Public Library, 215 N. Wyman St., presents Finding Grants for a Non-Profit Organization, 2 to 3:30 p.m., Main Library second floor computer room. Must be proficient with Internet. Call 815-965-7606.

Northern Illinois SCORE hosts Using Quickbooks with Monica Glenny, Datacraft, 9:30 a.m. to noon at EIGERlab, 605 N. Fulton Ave., Rockford. Register at www.northernillinoisscore.org/ workshops.

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford, hosts Family Day,

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Thursday, January 31

Carz R’ Us, 10208 Smythe Ave., Machesney Park, held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Nov. 30 at 11 a.m., to celebrate its new general automotive repair facility with 10 bays and reception area.

Northern Illinois SCORE hosts E-Business with Michael K. Broski, Entre Computer Solutions, 5:30 to 8 p.m., at EIGERlab, 605 N. Fulton Ave., Rockford. Register at www.northernillinoisscore.org/ workshops.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

January 2013

BMO Harris Bank continues as presenting sponsor for Chamber’s 2013 Business Luncheon Series The Rockford Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that BMO Harris Bank will continue as the presenting sponsor for the Chamber’s Business Luncheon Series for 2013. BMO Harris Bank became the annual presenting sponsor for this series in 2011 as part of its strong belief in providing guidance, services and education to help businesses grow and succeed.

The series, long a hallmark for the Rockford Chamber, annually features speakers of strong national and local reputation, who provide timely information, provocative thought and stimulating ideas to meet the Chamber’s mission as the leading advocate for business growth in the Rockford Region. Past sessions have included Small Business concentrating on growth and development, Mayor’s Business Luncheon, State of the County, Healthcare Industry Update and Education Outlook.

Similar sessions are anticipated for 2013.

“We value greatly the partnership we have with BMO Harris on this series and appreciate the great level of community support BMO Harris has provided since entering the Rockford market,” said Einar Forsman, president & CEO of the Rockford Chamber. “The Chamber Business Luncheon Series has a strong reputation for creating access to businesses, to national experts on critical topics as well

as top elected and governmental leaders to discuss local issues.”

“We have been very pleased to be part of supporting the Rockford Chamber and its luncheon series,” said Andrea Ward, regional market president, BMO Harris Bank. “We have made a concerted effort to extend a broad range of support for the Rockford community, and we are happy to support the local business community as part of this.”

About BMO Harris Bank Based in Chicago, BMO Harris Bank N.A. provides a broad range of personal banking products and solutions with more than 600 branches and about 1,300 ATMs in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, Nevada, Arizona and Florida. BMO Harris Bank’s commercial banking team provides a combination of sector expertise, local knowledge and midmarket focus throughout the United States.

Deposit and loan products and services provided by BMO Harris Bank N.A. Member FDIC. BMO Harris Bank SM is a trade name used by BMO Harris Bank N.A. BMO Harris Bank is part of BMO Financial Group, a North American financial organization with 1,600 branches, and a retail deposit base of approximately $180 billion.

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24

January 2013

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Member Category of the Month MEMBERSHIP The following is a listing of Rockford Chamber members highlighted in a specific industry.

Ambulance Services Mercy Ambulance Service

Chiropractors

Orthopedic Rehab Specialists Van Matre HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital

Physicians & Surgeons

Caraotta Chiropractic Orthopedics P.C. Rockford Nephrology Associates First Step Chiropractic, S. C. (RNA of Rockford LLC) Hulsebus Rockford Chiropractic Weiskopf, Jerome S. MD, PC Maculan Chiropractic Clinic William N. Georgis, MD, SC

Clinics, Medical Groups Forest City Diagnostic Imaging Innova Med Northern Illinois Medical Group Northern Illinois Vein Clinic OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center Physicians Immediate Care Rockford Health System Summit Radiology SwedishAmerican Health System University of Illinois Rockford, A UIC Health Sciences Campus

Dentists Brian F. Soltys, D.D.S. Dental Designers, LLC Ongena Dental Pumilia Family Dental Group Sexson Orthodontics, Ltd.

Hospitals OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center Rockford Health System SwedishAmerican Health System Van Matre HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital

Pharmaceutical Companies Mylan Institutional Inc.

Pharmacies Rock Valley Compounding Pharmacy

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Advanced Therapy Solutions Rockford Orthopedic Associates

Physical Therapy ATI Physical Therapy Accelerated Rehabilitation Centers Advance Medical Rehabilitation Center Ege WorkSmart Solutions, PC Orthopedic & Sports Therapy Institute - Byron

Physicians & Surgeons Gastroenterology Rockford Gastroenterology Associates, Ltd.

Physicians & Surgeons Infertility Advanced Reproductive Center, Inc.

OB GYN Associates of Rockford Ltd. Physicians & Surgeons Ophthalmology Imler Eye Clinic of Rockford, LLC Malik Eye Institute Miller Eye Center

Physicians & Surgeons Orthopedics Rockford Orthopedic Associates Rockford Spine Center

Introducing the 2012 Ambassadors Thank you to the Rockford Chamber Ambassadors for your hospitality at ribbon cuttings, open houses and events in 2012.

Seated: Anthony Mencarini (honorary Ambassador - Amelia), Diane Navickis, Barb Berman, Valerie Tippitt, Karen Tilly, Mary Ann Gaunt; First Row Standing, left to right: Mary Ann Suprenant, Libby Simms, Teri Beyer, Jean Lopez, Pat Casazza; Second Row: Mary Jo Hare, Denise Wimmer, Michelle Quast, Stacy Wallace, Barb Lane, Debbie Hutchinson, Lori Radant, Susan Geise, Jocelyn Hare, Ritu Bhargava; Third Row: Donna George, Debbie Klinefelter, Ranae Bergman, Kurt Berry, Andrew Kobishka, Rick Peters and Lori Barker.

Not pictured: Bea Ricotta, Kay King, Sue Boyer, Kelly Vinje, Lance Kamin, Robbin Snodgrass, Janet Fischer, Chris Sherrard, Suzanne Ainsworth, Kellie Miller, Stacie Scott, Andy Krauss, Kathy Siedenburg, Cindy Nicolosi, Lori Radean, Kathy Vogel, Adriana Krauss, Ray King, Paula Fisher and Joanne Blaser.

Physicians & Surgeons Podiatrists Rockford Orthopedic Associates

Physicians & Surgeons Rheumatology Rockford Orthopedic Associates

Physicians & Surgeons Urologists Rockford Urological Associates, Ltd.

Prosthetics Comprehensive Prosthetics & Orthotics

Rehabilitation Maple Crest Care Centre Van Matre HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital

Surgery Centers Rockford Ambulatory Surgery Center

Listings for our loyalty categories are generated directly from the Business Directory based on the category designated by the member.

Member-to-member Loyalty Card Cut out and write your company name on the card. Give it to the member you are doing business with to show your support of member-to-member business.

Shortening your time in the returns line after the gift exchange The song says there are 12 days of Christmas. If there were 13, many of us would be spending that last day in at least one returns/exchanges line.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Return 1. Return policies. If you’re hesitant at all that you haven’t found the perfect gift, check the store’s return policy before you buy it. Great bargain prices might mean a no-refund policy applies. Spend some time at the customer service counter now and possibly eliminate a return trip when everyone else wants help, too.

If buying online, determine who pays for shipping returned items and if they can be taken to a store instead.

Also ask about handling fees – they’re different and stores may not alert you to the handling charge that comes with free shipping.

Some merchants may have off-site service centers to handle returns so be sure you know the process before you need it.

2. Got a receipt? Do yourself a favor and scan or copy your receipts when you get home. Keep the scanned receipts in one file and put your originals in a box where you can find it again. Even if you lose the box, you’ll

have a record of your purchases.

3. A different kind of stocking.

Many electronic items come along with a restocking fee for any returns, so if you think your gift will be returned, know your recipient might be incurring that cost or loss in value with an exchange.

4. Tag it. Most stores won’t accept returns unless the item is in its original package and they prefer intact tags, as well. Mark out the price, but keep the tags. If you are the gift receiver, and you know when you unwrap that you don’t want the item, don’t open it at all – it may save you a restocking fee.

5. Don’t wait. The key to a quick and easy return is to act fast. Store return policies may vary from two weeks to 90 days.

6. Warranties. Electronics and appliance store salespeople may ask you to buy that extended warranty. Don’t buy without knowing all the facts, and if your recipient always has the latest toy on the market, skip the warranty. Likely there will be an update before anything goes wrong with the current gadget.

Source: www.angieslist.com

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25

January 2013

New Chamber Members MEMBERS Christenson Funeral Home & Crematory

Napoli Pizza & Catering

Funeral Home, Funeral Services, Merchandise 925 3rd Ave., 61104 Nathan Harvey 815-965-1600 www.rockfordfunerals.com

Republic Mortgage Home Loans

Family-Owned, Pick Up, and Delivery Restaurant.

Offer Full-Service Catering as Well 8289 Burden Road Machesney Park, IL 61115 Jeff Johnson 815-633-4800 www.napolipizzaandpasta.com

Specialize in Residential Lending

Classic Limousine of Rockford Limousine Service to/from O’Hare, Midway and Mitchell Airports Downtown Chicago, Corporate, Weddings, Proms 5024 Willow Creek Road., Ste. C Machesney Park IL 61115 Randy Samples 815-282-1868 www.rockfordlimo.com

Dental Designers, LLC General Denistry for the Whole Family 7474 E. State St., Ste. 110, 61108 Duane Hansen, DDS 815-398-3800

Fortune Hibachi & Grill Buffet Chinese, American, Mexican, Japanese Sushi, Lunch and Dinner Buffet 5456 E. State St., 61108 Andy Gao 815-399-7888 www.facebook.com/fortune/hibachi

Market America/ Shop.com Promote Online Shopping (Cash Back for Shopping Online), Health & Nutrition, Nutraceuticals Motives Cosmetics, TLS (Weight Loss) Gary Hoover 815-494-3694 www.shop.com/dynamo

Napoli Pizza & Catering Family-Owned, Pick Up, and Delivery Restaurant.

Offer Full-Service Catering as Well 6560 N. Alpine Road Loves Park, IL 61111 Frank Laudicina 815-877-9888 www.napolipizzaandpasta.com

Odling Construction Co. Commercial, Industrial, Residential — Honesty, Integrity & Quality Workmanship 8160 Old River Road, 61103 Cathie Odling-Freese 815-654-9583 www.odlingconstructionco.com

Owen PI Investigative Work Including But Not Limited to Criminal and Civil Investigations, Serving Process and Missing Persons 717 Seminary St., 61104 L. Joe Owen 815-690-0859

Parkside Warehouse, Inc. A 3PL (3rd Party Logistics) Company that Specializes in Supply Chain Management Services Combined with Advanced Inventory Control Technology 5940 Falcon Road, 61109 Stephen Tigner 815-397-9614 www.parksidewarehouse.com

Premier Fitness Rockford $20 Month Gym Membership that Provides Custom Fitness Training in a Fun Clean Hardcor Atmosphere 3065 N. Perryville Road, Ste. 145, 61114 Daniel Stevens 815-290-0348 www.premierfitnessrockford.com

January 2013 Member Anniversaries Thank you to the members who celebrate their anniversaries with the Rockford Chamber in January 2013.

30-Year Member

10-Year Members

Pearson

Van Matre HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital Zion Development Corporation

15-Year Members Catholic Diocese of Rockford The Observer Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity, Inc. Winnebago County Board Chairman’s Office

5-Year Members ADV Enterprise SVL Productions

(Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, and IHDA)

420 Financial Court, Ste. 110, 61107 Ron Lawson

815-312-5822

Rockford Molded Products Plastic Injection Molding, Pad

Printing, Insert Molding, Painting

Plastic Parts, Sonic Welding, Tool &

Mold Making, Assembly, Packaging, Engineering, Value Added Work,

Prototyping, Aluminum Tooling, CAD, Design

5600 Pike Road

Loves Park, IL 61111 Wayne Rasner, Sr. 815-637-0585

www.rockfordmolded.com

Schilling & Walsh, LLP General Practice, Estate Planning, Corporate, Real Estate, Family, Banking, Adoptions

127 N. Wyman St., 61101 Erin Walsh

815-977-5211

www.schillingwalsh.com

Tebala Shrine Center Rental Space Available for Meetings, Weddings, and Other Events 7910 Newburg Road, 61108 Denise R. McLendon 815-332-2010 www.tebala.com

Tim Hall Insurance Agency, LLC Property and Casualty, Life & Commercial, Health 5301 E. State St., Ste. 103, 61108 Timothy Hall 779-423-0394 www.timhallins.com

Trinity Day Care Working Together to Provide a Secure, Nurturing, Educational Environment for Children & Families 215 N. First St., 61107 Danielle Ritter 815-986-5437 www.trinitydaycare.com

Ultrasonic Power Corporation Manufacturer of Ultrasonic Precision Industrial Cleaning Systems 239 E. Stephenson St. Freeport, IL 61032 Judith Thompson 815-235-6020 www.upcorp.com

26

January 2013

All Weather Facts

EVENTS

Upcoming Chamber Events

The Earth sees about

760 thunderstorms every hour, scientists have calculated.

Oak trees are struck by lightning more than any other tree.

Carbon dioxide is a

trace gas and by itself will produce little warming. Also, as carbon dioxide increases, the incremental warming is less, as the effect is logarithmic so the more carbon dioxide the less warming it produces.

Temperatures have been cooling since 2002, even as carbon dioxide has continued to rise.

January, 2013 Monday, January 7

IGNITE Professional Development Quarterly Book Club, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Lonestar Steakhouse, 6690 E. State St., Rockford, in the Alamo Room. Appetizers and drink specials. Features the book, “The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business,” by Charles Duhigg.

Tuesday, January 8

Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Sam’s Ristorante, 6075 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford.

Contact Thomas Conwell, MSI Reverse, tconwell@msiloans.biz.

Wednesday, Jan. 9 7:30 - 9:00 am Rock Valley College 3301 N. Mulford Rd., Rockford

The winter of

1932 in the United States was so cold that

Niagara Falls froze completely solid!

The speed of a typical raindrop is 17 miles per hour.

Breakfast Buzz Is it Networking or…NOT Working?

Panelists Kelly Vinje, Gordon Flesch Company and Rebecca Epperson, PR Etc. will discuss the art of networking.

Sponsored by McGladrey

Wednesday, January 9

Rain contains vitamin B12.

six times

Men are more likely to be struck by lightning than women.

Contrary to popular belief, lightning travels from the ground upwards not from the sky downwards.

Nine out of 10 lightning strike victims

survive.

It is possible to see a rainbow at night. Since the moon is not nearly as bright as the sun, the rainbow produced by the moon at night is much weaker than a rainbow produced by the sun during the day.

Our eyes see dim things as black and white, not in color. So a night “moonbow” will look gray.)

Advantage Power Network Club, 11:45 a.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford. Contact Teri Watts, Whitehead Inc., Realtors®, tlwatts@ whiteheadcommercial.com or Holly Hanson, The Business Edge Inc., coach@thebizedge.biz.

Advantage Club – Originals, 11:45 a.m., various locations. Contact Stacy Wallace, LDR Construction Services, Inc., 815-874-7066 or swallace@ldr4service.com.

Ribbon Cutting, Panino’s Restaurant, 5403 E. State St., 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Thursday, January 10

January Ambassador Lunch, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m., Fortune Hibachi & Grill Buffet, 5456 E. State St., Rockford.

Friday, January 11

In 10 minutes, a hurricane releases more energy than all the world’s nuclear

weapons combined!

-40 degrees Celsius = -40 degrees Fahrenheit www.funfactz.com

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Government Affairs Council, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St., Rockford. Jaci Kator, director – external affairs, AT&T of Illinois, will speak on telecom legislation sun setting in spring, 2013. AT&T believes a rewrite of the Telecom Act and possibly the Video Act in the Illinois General Assembly is essential in getting new businesses to relocate into Illinois.

To join, contact Heidi Garner at 815-316-4312.

Thursday, January 17

Business After Hours, 5 to 7 p.m., Giovanni’s, Inc., 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford.

Thursday, January 17

Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening Celebration, H & R Block, 6278 E. State St., Rockford. 3:30 p.m. ribbon cutting, 4 to 7 p.m. blood drive. Tons of prizes (including Ice Hog tickets), a visit with Ice Hogs’ Hammi, activities and refreshments.

Tuesday, January 22

Multicultural Business Council, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Rockford Chamber of Commerce #5 conference room, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190.

Tuesday, January 22 Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Sam’s Ristorante, 6075 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford.

Contact Thomas Conwell, MSI Reverse, tconwell@msiloans.biz.

Wednesday, January 23

Advantage Power Network Club, 11:45 a.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford. Contact Teri Watts, Whitehead Inc., Realtors®, tlwatts@ whiteheadcommercial.com or Holly Hanson, The Business Edge Inc., coach@thebizedge.biz.

Advantage Club – Originals, 11:45 a.m., various locations. Contact Stacy Wallace, LDR Construction Services, Inc., 815-874-7066 or swallace@ldr4service.com.

Thursday, Jan. 24 5:00 - 8:00 pm Giovanni’s 610 N. Bell School Rd., Rockford

Annual Dinner Jim Blasingame presents “The Age of the Customer,” and the 2013 Citizen of the Year will be announced.

Blasingame is the award-winning host of The Small Business Advocate® Show weekday radio talk show. His book, “The Age of the Customer,” will be released in 2013.

Sponsors: WilliamsMcCarthy LLP (presenting); Humana (Citizen of the Year award); First National Bank and Trust Co. and OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center (gold); AT&T and Leading Lawyers Network (silver); McGladrey and The Alliance (bronze)

February, 2013 Tuesday, February 5

Business Women’s Council, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Randa Noble, author of a series of articles on networking for the Association of Gospel Rescue Missions magazine, will present on networking. Sponsor is Siena on Brendenwood.

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Membership Renewals Thank you to the members who renewed with the Rockford Chamber in November, 2012.

Abreo Restaurant Accu-Cut Inc Alpine Kiwanis Club Amberwood Care Centre Atlas Components Business Advisors Group, LLC Camelot World Travel CherryVale Tire & Auto Children’s Home & Aid Chili’s Grill & Bar Ciao Bella Ristorante City of Loves Park City of Rockford Human Services Department CMM & Associates Columbia College Come Together Rockford Delta Dental of Illinois Erboe & Associates, CPAs Faust Landmark Apartments Office Fifth Third Bank Forest City Communications of Illinois Inc. Forest Glen Apartments Gallagher Miller Buettner & Parrott Jersey Mike’s - Rockford Jersey Mike’s - Machesney Park Joyner Neighborhood Resource Center Judson University Keith Country Day School K-I Machine Tool & Production Inc. La Voz Latina Latino Resource Development Center Leland L. Freberg, CPA, LLC

Lindstrom, Sorenson & Associates, LLP Mailboxes and Parcel Depot Maple Crest Care Centre Merrill Lynch Michalsen Office Furniture Inc. Mid-City Office Products Mike’s Auto Service Napleton Honda Northern Illinois Terrazzo & Tile Company Nova Painting & Decorating Parks Big & Tall Prorok Law Office, P.C. Ringland-Johnson, Inc. Rockford Housing Authority Rockford I.D. Shop, Inc. Rockford Riverhawks Professional Baseball Shelter Insurance Companies Special Power, Inc. Stateline World Trade Association Stewart & Associates, Inc. Summit Radiology SuperSuds Car Care Center U.S. Cellular Upper Iowa University Rockford Center Upstream Investment Partners Village Green Home & Garden Winnebago County Regional Planning & Economic Development

EVENTS

Upcoming Chamber Events Friday, February 8

Government Affairs Council, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St., Rockford. To join, contact Heidi Garner at 815-3164312.

Tuesday, February 12

Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Sam’s Ristorante, 6075 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford.

Contact Thomas Conwell, MSI Reverse, tconwell@msiloans.biz.

Wednesday, Feb. 13 7:30 - 9:00 am Rock Valley College 3301 N. Mulford Rd., Rockford

Breakfast Buzz

Wednesday, Feb. 20 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Franchesco’s Ristorante 7128 Spring Creek Rd., Rockford

Sponsored by McGladrey

Wednesday, February 13

ADVERTISERS Advertisers Index

Alpine Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Brian Thomas Photography. . . . 19 Broadmoor Agency. . . . . . . . . . . 10 Calvary Bookkeeping Services. . 12 Colorwave Graphics. . . . . . . . . . 14 Comcast. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 First National Bank and Trust Company . . . . . . . . . 11 IMEC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 McGladrey. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Meridian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Riverside Community Bank . . . . . 9 Rockford Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . 2, 21, 23, 25 Rockford College . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Einar K. Forsman, President & CEO.......................................... 815-316-4304 Heidi M. Garner, Executive Assistant to the President.................... 815-316-4312

Doug Hessong, Director of Publications & Technology................... 815-316-4338

Lynette Jacques, Advertising and Sponsorship Executive............... 815-316-4317 Vee Jevremovic, Manager of Education Programs and Events. . ........ 815-316-4337 Andrew Kobischka, Membership Development Manager.................... 815-316-4336 Cyndie Landis, Financial Assistant. . .......................................... 815-316-4300

Joy Moriarty, V.P. Finance. . ..................................................... 815-316-4316 Stacy Mullins, Director of Events. . ............................................ 815-316-4302 Diane Navickis, Membership Development Manager..................... 815-316-4315

Joan Sundvall, Membership Contact Coordinator......................... 815-316-4320

Chamber Board of Directors & Officers Executive Committee

Directors

Small Business Conference and Luncheon The conference theme, “Tactics and Strategies for a Thriving Business,” features a series of topics with expert speakers on key strategies to help your business thrive.

The luncheon includes a keynote speaker.

Vice Chair Patti Thayer Thayer Lighting, Inc.

Sponsors: BMO Harris Bank (presenting); Humana and SwedishAmerican Health System (gold)

Thursday, February 21

Good Morning Rockford! 7:30 to 9 a.m., Rock River Valley Blood Center, 419 N. 6th St., Rockford.

Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Sam’s Ristorante, 6075 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford. Contact Thomas Conwell, MSI Reverse, tconwell@msiloans.biz.

Advantage Power Network Club, 11:45 a.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford. Contact Teri Watts, Whitehead Inc., Realtors®, tlwatts@ whiteheadcommercial.com or Holly Hanson, The Business Edge Inc., coach@thebizedge.biz.

Wednesday, February 27

Advantage Club – Originals, 11:45 a.m., various locations. Contact Stacy Wallace, LDR Construction Services, Inc., 815-874-7066 or swallace@ldr4service.com.

Advantage Club – Originals, 11:45 a.m., various locations. Contact Stacy Wallace, LDR Construction Services, Inc., 815-874-7066 or swallace@ ldr4service.com.

Advantage Power Network Club, 11:45 a.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford. Contact Teri Watts, Whitehead Inc., Realtors®, tlwatts@ whiteheadcommercial.com or Holly Hanson, The Business Edge Inc., coach@thebizedge.biz.

Rockford Health System. . . . . . . . 5 Sikich. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Summit CPA Group. . . . . . . . . . .13 SVA Certified Public Accountants. . . . . . . . . . 12 Stillman Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Thayer Lighting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Upstream. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Van Galder Bus Co. . . . . . . . . . . . 2 V2 Marketing Communications. . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Weinberg & Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Widmer Interiors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Wipfli LLP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 YMCA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Chamber Staff / Call 815-987-8100.............................................. Direct Line

Chairman of the Board Richard Walsh SwedishAmerican Health System

Business Success Tuesday, February 26 Profile Features Robert Funderburg, Alpine Bank.

27

January 2013

Vice Chair Richard Zumwalt OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center Treasurer Larry Bridgeland Mid-City Office Products Immediate Past Chairman Mike Broski Entré Computer Solutions

Romero Bennett Blue Sky Insurance Agency, Inc. Andrew Benson Benson Stone Company, Inc. Ryan Brauns Rockford Consulting & Brokerage Paul Callighan ComEd, An Exelon Company

Michele Janke BMO Harris Bank

Pat Shaw McGladrey LLP

Penelope Lechtenberg Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP

Somchan Thatsanaphon K-I Machine Tool & Production Inc.

Michael Mastroianni Rock Valley College Paul McCann Stanley Steemer Pat Morrow Alpine Bank

Joe Castrogiovanni Giovanni’s, Inc.

Amy Ott Chicago Rockford International Airport

J Chapman Maverick Media of Rockford LLC

Mark Peterson CBL Associates Cherry Vale

Rena Cotsones Northern Illinois University

Timothy Rollins WilliamsMcCarthy

Darlene Furst Furst Staffing

Tim White UTC Aerospace Systems Jennifer Wood Sikich LLP

Ex-Officio Directors Janyce Fadden Rockford Area Economic Development Council

Einar K. Forsman President & CEO, Rockford Chamber of Daniel Saavedra Saavedra Gehlhausen Commerce Architects John Groh

Henry Seybold Jeff Hultman Riverside Community Rockford Health System Bank

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

February 2013 Special Section

Educational Services Manufacturing Innovations — Made in Rockford For information on advertising, call 815

987-8100