January Voice 2014

The Voice is online at rockfordchamber.com

ROCKFORD TOOLCRAFT

MORGAN STREET BRIDGE OPENS

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13 CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING SITES OPEN, JAN. 1 TO 15

January 2014 | Volume 27 | No. 1

Education Outlook Luncheon

By Paul Anthony Arco Dr. Ehren Jarrett, superintendent of Rockford Public Schools, likens the work being done in local education to that of the 20-Mile March, a story that illustrates the different strategies performed by explorers Roald Amundsen and Robert Falcon Scott, in an effort to lead their teams to be the first to the South Pole.

Amundsen prepared carefully for years in advance of the journey while Scott’s preparation was limited. Amundsen stored three tons of supplies for five men, while Scott stored one ton for 17 men.

Amundsen used sled dogs whereas Scott used unproven “motor sledges” which failed within days of his trip.

On Dec. 15, 1911, Amundsen and his team reached the South Pole, beating

highlights collaboration

PHOTOS BY BRIAN THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY

Dr. Ehren Jarrett and Dr. Jack Becherer delivered messages of connectivity.

Scott by more than a month. By the time Amundsen traveled more than 500 miles on his return trip home, Scott and his team were found frozen to death in a snow-drifted tent.

The moral of the story? “Like Amundsen, we need to march together, 20 miles at a time, in order to achieve a high level of results.”

Heading in the Right Direction Jarrett and Rock Valley College President Dr. Jack Becherer delivered a message of connectivity to business leaders on Dec. 12, during the Rockford Chamber of Commerce’s annual Education Outlook Luncheon, highlighting collaborative efforts of the region’s largest public school system and community college.

More than 320 members of the business community turned out for the event,

which was held at the Radisson Hotel & Conference Center. “The relationship between the business community and the schools is so essential for the success of our students,” Jarrett said. “To see this level of energy and enthusiasm is inspiring.”

The consensus among attendees was that local education is headed in the right direction.

“Education is what’s going to drive this region,” said LoRayne Logan, president of workplace staffing and co-team leader for engagement for Transform Rockford, a regional long-range planning effort to improve social and economic conditions of the Rockford area. “We have two leaders who are doing all they can, and brilliantly, to really deliver education attainment in the region. It was exciting and uplifting to feel their passion and commitment. The more on page 3

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

Jan Bowman TLC Construction

Michael Iasparro Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP

■ Jan Bowman, TLC Construction ■ Michael Iasparro, Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP ■ Laura Williamson, Rockford Park District

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

■ Josh Trust, Rockford Register Star Look for profiles on these board members in upcoming issues of The Voice.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

Annual Dinner Jan. 23 • Giovanni’s For more info, see page 27

20 MOST COMMON PASSWORDS IN 2012

begin terms in 2014

The Rockford Chamber welcomed four new board members for three-year terms beginning Jan. 1, 2014.

Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful for the 26th year will offer real Christmas tree recycling at 13 sites in Winnebago County. Christmas trees will be mulched at sites in Rockford, Cherry Valley, Loves Park, Machesney Park, Roscoe, Rockton and Pecatonica. Mulch will be available, first-come, first-served, while supplies last.

The stand, lights and any decorations should be removed from the tree before transporting to a recycling site. Recyclers should leave only the tree; remove and take home the wrap used for transportation. Artificial trees, wreaths, flocked trees, tree bags and tree stands are not accepted.

Holiday lights and other recyclables are accepted at the Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful recycle centers, open 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays at 4665 Hydraulic Dr., Rockford and 13125 N. 2nd St., Roscoe.

For more information about Christmas tree recycling email info@knib.org, “like” KeepNorthernIllinois Beautiful on Facebook, visit www.knib.org or call 815-637-1343.

Laura Williamson Rockford Park District

Josh Trust Rockford Register Star

SplashData’s list was compiled from files containing millions of stolen passwords posted online by hackers. The company advises consumers or businesses using any of the passwords on the list to change them immediately.

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January 2014

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

President’s Message VIEWPOINT

Chamber supports initiative to change re-districting process in Illinois Both the Rockford Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and Government Affairs Council voted unanimously to support the Yes For Independent Maps initiative, which would change the way Illinois legislative districts are drawn in order to have fair, balanced, geographically appropriate legislative districts for proper representation in the State of Illinois. The proposal would reshape the way we draw the lines to create a system that is independent, nonpartisan and transparent.

It is the opposite of the current process, which is conducted behind closed doors by politicians with only themselves in mind. The proposed amendment to the process was crafted by Illinoisans across the state in pursuit of a fair, open and efficient process for redistricting.

The Yes For Independent Maps coalition aims to fix the broken process by putting an amendment on the November 2014 ballot. The proposed constitutional amendment would take redistricting out of the hands of politicians and give the power back to the people. This amendment brings independence to a

broken, unfair and secret process that gives politicians too much control. We need to put the voters back in charge, and our proposed system is transparent, nonpartisan and independent from the legislature.

Wide Demographic Voter Support The initiative is receiving enthusiastic, diverse, statewide support. More than 70 percent of Illinois voters support an independent redistricting commission, with 38 percent strongly favoring. This holds for men and women, Chicagoans and downstaters, Republicans, Democrats and Independents.

Right now supporters are working to collect the signatures necessary to place the initiative on the November 2014 ballot. Petitioning will continue through April 2014, and then Illinoisans will be able to vote for real change in state government on Nov. 4, 2014.

A Highly Transparent Process The Illinois Constitution currently specifies that the General Assembly

draws the state Senate and House Districts after every Census. If that process fails, a legislatively appointed commission creates the maps. The Illinois Independent Redistricting Amendment would establish an 11-member Independent Redistricting Commission to draw the maps. The new structure and process builds on the most effective, fair redistricting systems in other states, tailored to the unique politics and legal requirements of Illinois.

Under the proposed amendment, the independent commission would draw district boundaries using the following criteria: ■■ Contiguous, substantially equal in population, and in compliance with federal laws.

■■ Not drawn to dilute or diminish the ability of a racial or language minority community to elect the candidates of its choice.

■■ Respecting the geographic integrity of cities, towns and other units of local government.

■■ Respecting the geographic integrity of

communities Einar K. Forsman Rockford Chamber sharing of Commerce common social and economic interests.

■■ Not drawn to purposefully or significantly discriminate against or favor any political party or group, and not considering the residence of any person.

The commission would hold public hearings throughout the state both before and after it releases its draft maps.

The process would be extraordinarily transparent: All commission records and communications between commissioners will be open for public inspection, and all commission meetings will be open to the public and publicly noticed at least two days ahead of time.

If you would like to have petitions available for you to circulate for signature, please contact Einar Forsman at eforsman@rockfordchamber.com.

For more information, go to www. independentmaps.org.

Einar Forsman is president & CEO of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

January 2014

Jeffery Katz of Montissori Schools is part of the large audience attending the luncheon.

Education Outlook Continued from front page

connectivity and collaboration has started and will continue.”

Getting High Schoolers Ready for College Many examples of partnership were highlighted during the luncheon. For example, Rock Valley College will offer college-level math classes in the fall for students at Jefferson High School. The idea is to better prepare students, so they’re not taking remedial classes in college.

Jay Graham has noticed an attitude shift within the public schools. Graham, partner and co-creative director at GrahamSpencer, has spent time working on projects at various schools.

“This is transformation on a monumental scale,” he said. “Don’t underestimate what’s happening here.

A couple years ago, I was at Jefferson High School working on a project for Alignment Rockford. The negative energy in the building at the time was not evident at all when I returned three weeks ago for a similar project. I hope everyone visits a public school because you will see something that will surprise you, in a good way.”

Jarrett told the crowd that the district will unveil standards and strategies in the future to improve numeracy, student literacy, educational attainment and college and career readiness. The numbers are telling. For example, 93 percent of students who read above grade level in third grade continue to read above grade level throughout school. Another goal is to have all students earn at least a 20 in math and reading on the ACT. “It was good to see very specific objectives shared with the business community,” said Einar Forsman, president & CEO of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce. “In the past we’ve talked about the negatives, but now we’re talking about specific benchmarks on how we advance our students, which is very encouraging.”

Becherer said it’s imperative that

Heather Kelley, board president and Julie Morris, superintendent of the Harlem School District flank Janna Becherer.

Rock Valley College and Rockford Public Schools continue to work as partners.

That includes expanding their Advance Now program in the fall. The Dual Credit program allows high school juniors and seniors to take college career courses in careers such as manufacturing and health.

While many successes have been accomplished, there’s more work to be done.

“There’s a tremendous opportunity for the business community to step up and be engaged, whether it’s a career pathways initiative, mentoring in the schools, or volunteering their expertise for the types of industries that are hiring,” Forsman said. “There’s still that huge need and that won’t ever change.

People cycle in and out of leadership roles. We need people committed from an organizational standpoint.”

Jarrett agrees.

“We all need to be part of collaboration,” he said. “We need to be focused on results for our students. We can’t talk around the core issue, which is college and career readiness for all of our students.

“I believe in the power of the community coming together for big goals and big dreams. We’re starting down that road, and we’re going to make progress every year towards that goal.”

The luncheon was sponsored by BMO Harris Bank. Gold sponsors included Humana and SwedishAmerican Health System. n

Let your Voice be heard The Rockford Chamber of Commerce ­ elcomes and encourages submissions for The w 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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January 2014

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Rockford Chamber rings in the new year with its annual dinner Citizen of the Year nominations due Jan. 10 The Rockford Chamber of Commerce will celebrate the new year with its Annual Dinner on Jan. 23 at Giovanni’s. The event will highlight 2013 successes and feature keynote speaker, Haydn Shaw. Last year, more than 700 members and community supporters attended.

Members are encouraged to nominate someone by Jan. 10 for this special award, open to any Rockford area individual who has, over the period of several years, contributed to the welfare and progress of the community.

One of the highlights of the event is the announcement of the 2014 Citizen of the Year. Members are encouraged to nominate someone

by Jan. 10 for this special award, open to any Rockford area individual who has, over the period of several years, contributed to the welfare and progress of the community. Previous winners include Dan Loescher, Mike Robinson, Jim Keeling, Barb Berman and Robert Funderburg. Nomination forms can be found online at rockfordchamber.com.

Four Generations Meet in the Workplace The Annual Dinner keynote speaker, Haydn Shaw, a leading expert and author on generational differences and their application to the workplace, will present “Sticking Points: How to Get 4 Generations Working Together in the 12 Places They Come Apart.”

Einar Forsman, Rockford Chamber president & CEO, states that this topic is important. “Over

‘Steady wins the race’

Achievement takes consistent performance

Dan Loescher was the 2013 recipient of the Citizen of the Year award. the past several years, the trend of businesses employing four generations -- Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Gen Xers and Millennials -- in the workforce has necessitated the conversation of how to continue meeting and exceeding business objectives while honoring each group’s different needs, attitudes, behaviors and value systems. Understanding and incorporating these important considerations is essential to the attraction and retention of talent and continued business success.”

The Annual Dinner, presented by OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, begins at 5 p.m. with networking, followed by the dinner, keynote address and Citizen of the Year announcement beginning at 6 p.m.

Tickets are $75 for individuals; $750 for a corporate table of 10. Visit rockfordchamber.com to register.

Sponsors of the event include First National Bank and Trust Company, Williams McCarthy LLP, Leading Lawyers, AT&T, The Alliance, McGladrey LLP and Williams-Manny.

Citizen of the Year sponsor is Charles Schwab. Media sponsors include Brian Thomas Photography, Midwest Family Broadcasting, Rockford Register Star, Townsquare Media, WIFR, WREX and WTVO/Fox.

After decades of uncertainty and false starts, we finally have momentum in this community. I am proud of the Rockford Public Schools’ role in this rebirth of hope.

I heard positive feedback about last month’s Education Outlook Luncheon hosted by the Rockford Chamber.

Together with Dr. Jack Becherer and Rock Valley College, we reported on our progress in preparing the young people of this community for college and careers.

However, it will take more than stirring video and inspirational messages to make the shift to 21st century learning -- and the kind of problem-solving and critical thinking demanded in the contemporary workforce.

It will take the effort described by Jim Collins in his book, “Great by Choice.” Collins profiles companies that have achieved spectacular success despite extreme adversity. He shows how achievement takes consistent performance, in good times and in bad.

Staying on Course Collins points to two expeditions in 1911 that aimed to reach the South Pole for the first time. Roald Amundsen and Robert Falcon Scott were similar ages. They faced similarly grueling temperatures and depravation. Yet Amundsen led his team on a steady march of 20 miles each day, no matter what. Scott pushed his team harder at times and eased up at times. The Amundsen expedition planted its flag on the South Pole first. Scott’s team followed 34 days later. He, and every member of his team, perished on the return trip.

In education, we don’t push the limits of human endurance. Our struggle is to push each student to reach his or her potential. Regardless, it’s all about building confidence. And consistent performance builds confidence.

Together with our 3,700 employees, I know we have the talent and the passion and the commitment to succeed. I know we can prepare our students for lifetime learning, for lives full of contribution and purpose.

By setting goals in literacy and numeracy, educational attainment and college and career readiness, I know we can get there.

However, I also know we have work to do. Here in the district, we’re building a culture that consistently supports 21st century teaching and learning. We know we have staff members who, because of years of instability in top leadership, have learned to shut their doors, ignore calls for change and wait until next year.

We know it will take discipline and patience to change the culture.

Yet, there’s also a growing realization that our moment is now. We see proof every day in how businesses are embracing the redesign of our high schools into college and career academies.

We heard it in the video shown at last month’s luncheon, when both Rockford Education Association President Dawn Granath and Vice President Paul Goddard expressed their gratitude for community support of the schools and their willingness to work together for change.

“We see a real opportunity here – and maybe the opportunity that Rockford students and teachers and parents in the community have deserved for so long,” Goddard said in the video.

With your help, we are ready to seize the opportunity. We are committed to the 20-mile march.

Dr. Ehren Jarrett is superintendent of Rockford Public Schools.

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

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

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January 2014

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

Blight can be beautiful Deconstruction as an economic development tool The debate which recently unfolded at City Hall regarding our community’s need to demolish blighted properties was needed, but it didn’t go far enough. For years, the city has predominantly utilized the “fast track” method of demolition, which notices property owners, but almost always results in a vacant lot — still owned by a third party — with a demolition lien that is never pursued.

The result – lots of lots that produce no tax revenue nor have any useful purpose, but now must be maintained (often by city contractors with more liens attached).

And yet, on the horizon are ways to accomplish multiple beneficial results as more and more properties are demolished.

Imagine if we could: 1) minimize the amount of demolition waste poured into our landfill, AND 2) re-use some useful building materials from these properties AND 3) create a way for those properties to be put back into useful service.

The answers: deconstruction and land banks. This article addresses deconstruction. [Psst … it’s been going on in Rockford for a while, but quietly.]

UBMROs, an Emerging Market Deconstruction is building disassembly of both the structural and non-structural components and material salvage. It involves carefully taking apart sections of a building or removing their contents with the primary goal of reuse.

Studies show that deconstruction is being used, on a limited scale, as an economic development tool. Deconstruction can create job training and job opportunities for unskilled and unemployed workers.

Towards this end, deconstruction has been incorporated as a component of workforce development training to enhance the skills and marketability of program participants towards construction-related employment.

Deconstruction also can create small businesses to handle the salvaged material from deconstruction projects.

Further, older properties in some communities may provide useful structural and non-structural building materials. Deconstruction, where it has been used, diverts these materials from landfills into productive, profitable reuse in building maintenance, renovation and other applications.

The majority of deconstructionrelated activities are small, often informal, and limited by an inconsistent supply of recovered building materials.

Deconstruction has been incorporated into renovation and remodeling projects by private sector contractors and non-profit organizations. Non-profit organizations have had some success working in the field of deconstruction due to grant funding and the ability to provide tax deductions to building owners for salvaged materials.

Comprehensive Community Solutions, Inc., has been carrying out deconstruction projects for the past several years with considerable success! Non-profit Used Building Material Retail Operations (UBMROs) are an emerging market nationwide, although most individual stores operate at a small-scale level, there are two in Rockford: Salvage Too (South Main Street) and Habitat for Humanity (North Main Street).

May Soon Be Mainstreamed The feasibility of deconstruction as an economic development vehicle depends on the type of deconstruction activity and the market for recovered materials.

Non-structural deconstruction, Kerry Knodle i.e., the CCS, Inc. salvaging of non-structural components and materials such as flooring, cabinetry and appliances, is a mature industry with consistent used building material markets in multiple regions across the United States.

Structural deconstruction, which consists of salvaging structural components such as joists and beams, can be described as an emerging market.

Over the past few months, a committee of local, regional and statewide representatives have been meeting and exploring how best to incorporate deconstruction into the prevailing “demolition” landscape that exists.

The good news – the idea is receiving generally favorable consideration, and — we hope — will make its way into the mainstream soon.

Kerry Knodle is founder and executive director/ CEO of Comprehensive Community Solutions, Inc. The views expressed are those of Knodle’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

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January 2014

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Registration open for Go Global International Trade Conference

Register today to attend the Go Global International Trade Conference: Strategize & Execute on May 7, 2014.

This year’s conference is focused on developing and executing plans to: ■■ Proactively pursue global sales growth ■■ Implement a more cost effective and efficient supply chain Currently announced speakers include: ■■ Linnea Bengtsson, international business developer, City of Lidköping and Skaraborg County, Sweden ■■ Russell L. Dennis, Jr., president & Chief Technology Officer, Leading Edge Hydraulics ■■ Jim Foley, director, Turner Center for Entrepreneurship - International Programs

Photo by Sherry Pritz

Christopher Whitaker, civic technologist with Smart Chicago Collaborative, helps generate an open dialogue on civic innovation, open data and the Illinois OpenTech

Regional Information Technology efforts: Apps & Ale, OpenTech Challenge, IT Roundtable

By Sherry Pritz, EIGERlab Through the efforts of the information technology (IT) community and the EIGERlab, an IT Roundtable was formed, comprising 12 companies from Illinois and Wisconsin. Currently, the members are focused on two areas: 1) creating a vibrant community of IT professionals, and 2) building a pipeline of future IT professionals to ensure the region has the necessary talent to attract new businesses and fill existing open positions.

The group recently facilitated two IT-related events: “Apps & Ale” and the “OpenTech Challenge,” which were well attended. Organizers were pleased with the outcomes.

“Apps and Ale” was a joint effort on the part of the EIGERlab’s IT Roundtable, the City of Rockford, Illinois Science and Technology Coalition, Smart Chicago Collaborative and Northern Illinois Coders. The goal was to create an open dialogue on civic innovation, open data and the Illinois OpenTech Hackathon.

“EIGERlab and the Rockford Area Economic Development Council recognize the great assets Rockford has in the high-tech community,” said Dan Cataldi, executive director of EIGERlab. “We believe the IT Roundtable will create the opportunity to work together with industry experts

to attract high-tech talent and business to Rockford.”

“I was pleased with the level of creative energy assembled during the event,” said Patrick Zuroske, City of Rockford, and judge at the “OpenTech Challenge” event. “I expected a certain level of energy, but what I saw actually exceeded my expectations.” During the first event of its kind in the region, there were several potentially interesting apps created that may solve some of the region’s challenges, including: an app that advised of construction sites, one that consolidates local-event calendars and one to post photos of broken signs, streetlights, etc., in order to alert the city.

The EIGERlab and IT Roundtable group are working with Christopher Whitaker, civic technologist with Smart Chicago Collaborative, who was instrumental in bringing the aforementioned events to Rockford.

Their current goal is to form a Code for America (CFA) Brigade, in the northern Illinois region. CFA, which is “A New Kind of Public Service,” aims to improve the relationships between citizens and government … help governments restructure to create low-risk settings for innovation, engage citizens to create better services, and support ongoing competition in the govtech marketplace.”

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

■■ Hikaru “Koh” Fujimoto, CPA, MBA, J.D., principal-in-charge of international practice, Corbett, Duncan & Hubly, P.C. ■■ Terry Houghton, PLC sourcing supervisor - global sourcing, Woodward, Inc. ■■ Tom Rohlfs, supply chain director - fuel systems CoE, Woodward, Inc. Brand your company as a leader in global trade – consider exhibition and sponsorship opportunities. Register now at www.goglobalrockford.com — manufacturers receive a reduced rate! We look forward to seeing you there!

Employer involvement needed for manufacturing training program Attracting skilled and qualified workers to fill available jobs has been one of the key challenges facing manufacturers in northern Illinois. Now, employers have an opportunity to get involved in a new training program that will be tailored to their specific needs.

The Northern Illinois Workforce Alliance, the workforce investment board serving Boone, Stephenson and Winnebago counties, was awarded a $1.2 million dollar grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to provide accelerated training in manufacturing. The Accelerated Training for Illinois Manufacturing (ATIM) grant covers four counties in northern Illinois: Winnebago, Boone, Stephenson and DeKalb counties, integrating classroom/ lab-based and work-based training for 133 participants.

Companies have been telling us they need skilled workers, and they need them yesterday, so the key word in the name of this grant is accelerated.

Counselors working in the four counties covered by the grant are in the process of reviewing the applications being submitted by job seekers. Those interested in being selected for the program will participate in a number of assessments to determine their suitability for training. The program centers on four different areas: machining (including computer-controlled machining), welding, assembly, and machine repair.

Eligible applicants have an opportunity to select the training they wish to receive, but

the final decision will be based on the work experience and skills they already have.

For example, a potential worker with previous experience may only need shortterm training to achieve the additional skills or certification they need for success.

Need More Employers on Board The keys to this program are providing industry-recognized training and certification, along with internships, workbased learning and on-the-job training; giving employers the opportunity to influence the content of the training being offered and matching trainees to specific job postings and OJT placements.

Workers with limited skills or experience may be placed in bridge programs that will help them move into a career pathway for further training and future employment.

A number of companies signed on to the grant early in the process, but more employers are needed to make this grant a success. Employer involvement is needed to help respond to the current demand to fill existing manufacturing vacancies and nearterm projected job postings. In short, for the program to provide the needed accelerated training, manufacturers need to get involved now while the training programs are still in the early planning stages.

To find out how your company can get involved, contact Darryl Cummings at the Northern Illinois Workforce Alliance, 815-847-7589 or dcummings@ theworkforceconnection.org.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

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January 2014

Food processing, manufacturing, packaging Insightful resources for a growing industry

With more than $15 billion of valueadded manufacturing in Illinois residing with the food industry, and four of the Fortune 500 companies maintaining corporate headquarters within the state, it’s apparent the longevity and health of food manufacturing and distribution are important to the Illinois economy.

Did you know?

The industry has a large breadth of products and sectors operating within the state; from meat, dairy products, fruits and vegetables, to milled grains, baked goods and candy. Across Illinois, the diversity not only of production and processing entities, but also the

manufacturing partners responsible for packaging and distribution of food-based products truly runs the spectrum.

Small and large companies both have an opportunity to compete in the state. While it is a highly competitive marketplace, each segment can uncover its unique advantage and be successful.

Large manufacturers have the ability to become more efficient in purchasing and distribution because of economies of scale. Smaller manufacturers often have the ease of agility for developing unique popular products and capitalizing on the familiarity of the local and regional markets in which they serve.

Opportunities for manufacturers to improve efficiencies, operations and product compliance in the food industry are unlimited. Many of the production processes are standardized and highly automated, so inefficiencies often will reside in quality control, safety and workforce coordination. And this holds true for suppliers throughout the process, not just the final goods manufacturer. Many of the supply chain partners for food manufacturers must

face a strict quality and regulatory process, often more than other industries in the state.

Food manufacturers account Ken Wunderlich Alex Nunez for a large portion of products IMEC IMEC manufactured in Illinois every year, so it’s imperative that Wunderlich brings a unique companies within the industry utilize the right people with the right skill background in quality and product set for manufacturing improvements. design to IMEC clients throughout From operational and workforce the state. By maintaining his HAACP inefficiencies to quality control and certification and serving as lead on product compliance, food manufacturers several food safety initiatives during require a diverse set of capabilities. his time in industry, he now works with IMEC technical specialists have Illinois food manufacturers to ensure experience working in/with the food development and functionality of industry and are available to help quality auditing systems and controls, companies in the food manufacturing as well as optimizing food component and distribution spectrum achieve suppliers for end-product compliance. higher quality and safety practices.

Alex Nunez – Based in the northern Our team will assess your current state, Chicago region, Nunez serves Illinois develop a plan for results and work with your team along the way to ensure manufacturers facing issues with primarily workforce development and compliance and success. safety initiatives. With a food science Meet the Technical Specialists degree, master’s in organizational Ken Wunderlich – Based out behavior, and a diverse background of of Northern Illinois University, experience in manufacturing, he has spent a significant time working in/ with food manufacturers establishing workforce and supervisory training programs, as well as productivity and process improvements. Additionally, his fluency in Spanish brings a unique capability to the diverse employee groups at many Illinois companies.

With the ability to serve companies in this diverse and growing industry throughout Illinois, the IMEC technical specialists are ready to provide awareness and implementation of the optimal solutions to transform manufacturing operations.

To learn more about food industry information in your region, or to work with an IMEC specialist, please contact Amy Fitzgerald at afitzgerald@imec.org or 309-677-2977.

Manufacturing News is sponsored by IMEC

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January 2014

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

The single most important habit of successful entrepreneurs A book exerpt In his book, No B.S. Time Management for Entrepreneurs, business coach and consultant Dan S. Kennedy reveals the steps behind making the most of your frantic, timepressured days so you can turn time into money.

The following is an edited excerpt from www. entrepreneur.com, in which the author describes the one habit you should adopt -- and stick to without fail -- if you want to be successful.

I’m sure there are exceptions somewhere, but so far, in 35-plus years of taking note of this, everybody I’ve met and gotten to know who devoutly adheres to this discipline becomes exceptionally successful, and everybody I’ve met and gotten to know who ignores this discipline fails. Is it possible that this one discipline alone is so powerful it literally determines success or failure?

The discipline I’m talking about is punctuality -- being where you’re supposed to be when you’re supposed to be there, as promised, without exception, without excuse, every time, all the time. I cannot tell you how important I believe this is. But I’ll tell you some of the reasons why I believe in its indescribably great importance.

First of all, being punctual gives you the right — the positioning — to expect and demand that others treat your time with the utmost respect. You cannot reasonably hope to have others treat your time with respect if you show little or no respect for theirs. So if you’re not punctual, you have no leverage, no moral authority. But the punctual person gains that advantage over staff, associates, vendors, clients, everybody.

It is my conviction that a person who cannot keep appointments on time, cannot keep scheduled commitments or cannot stick to a schedule cannot be trusted in other ways either. There is a link between respect for others’ time and respect for others’ opinions, property, rights, agreements and contracts. A person reveals a great deal about himself by his punctuality or lack of punctuality.

As a general rule of thumb, I use this as a means of determining whether or not I want to do business with someone. And, when I violate this, as I occasionally foolishly do, I always get burned.

Live, and Learn Let me give you one example. Dozens of years ago, a person seeking to do business with me arranged to meet me at an airport, where I had a 90-minute layover. We agreed, and I confirmed by fax that we would meet at my arrival gate, at my arrival time, and then go to that airline’s club room right there on the concourse for the meeting.

When I arrived, the guy wasn’t there.

Some 10 minutes later, I’m paged and told

to meet him in the main terminal where he is because he ran late getting to the airport. It takes me 10 minutes on the tram to get to the main terminal, and I have to cut another 10 minutes of our meeting to allow time to get back to my gate. I have to go through this to meet with a man so disrespectful of a commitment made and of my time that he cannot organize his life to arrive at a meeting on time in his own home city. If he could not be relied on to honor such an easy commitment, why should anybody believe he would honor more important ones?

Still, violating my own rule, I went ahead and accepted this guy as a client. It was predictably ugly. He lied, he cheated, and he was completely disorganized, dysfunctional and unreasonable. He sucked up a pretty good chunk of my time, and it cost me thousands of dollars to get rid of him.

Now, here’s a “success secret” for you: I’m not the only person to have figured out this punctuality-integrity link. I’m just not that smart. I’ve stumbled on something that a whole lot of other smart, successful and influential people already know and secretly use to make their determinations about who they will buy from or not buy from, do business with or not do business with, help or not help, trust or distrust. If you are not a punctual person, others you wish to positively influence will negatively judge you.

If you think that successful people — people you want to deal with — do not have their own little “systems” for judging people, you’re very naïve. Not only do they have such a system, most successful people make a point of having “instant reject criteria,” to save time in determining who they want to deal with and who they don’t.

One of my earliest business mentors said that there were only two good reasons for being late for a meeting with him: one, you’re dead; two, you want to be.

So, to borrow from Dale Carnegie, if you want to win friends and influence people, be punctual. And, if you’d like to save yourself a lot of time and trouble, start using this as a means of judging those who would do business with you.

Dan S. Kennedy is a strategic advisor, consultant, business coach and author of the popular No B.S. book series. He directly influences more than one million business owners annually. Source: http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/230107 The views expressed are those of Kennedy’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

January 2014

Member Profile PROFILE

Rockford Toolcraft does stamping and assembly work for many industries including recreational vehicles, appliances, automotive, electrical, heavy truck and agriculture.

Rockford Toolcraft remains strong

through perseverance, passion for innovation

By Paul Anthony Arco Despite the struggles many tool and die shops face around the country, one company that remains strong is Rockford Toolcraft, Inc., thanks to its perseverance and passion for innovation.

The Rockford-based company specializes in designing and building heavy gauge stamping dies, as well as running production metal stampings and assemblies.

“The biggest satisfaction we get from our work is figuring out the challenges,” said Tom Busse, president of the company.

“It’s something we never master, it’s never dull or routine, and there are always new challenges and opportunities. We step on a few land mines along the way, but we always put our heads together to come up with a solution.”

Rockford Toolcraft works with companies in product design, manufacture prototypes, and building the parts.

It concentrates on seven different product lines including the RV industry, appliances, automotive, electrical and miscellaneous commercial hardware, with most of its work coming from heavy truck and agriculture. Rockford Toolcraft has 90 customers around the country, and ships products to countries such as Brazil, Germany and Mexico.

There are more than 6,000 metal stamp products in the average home. Products that are metal stamped include stoves, microwaves, washers and dryers, as well as computers, filing cabinets, lighting fixtures, metal blinds, along with most automobile parts. “You name it and it probably comes from metal stamping die,” Busse said. “It’s not something most people think about.”

Two-Generation Family Business Rockford Toolcraft was founded in 1976

by Tom’s father, Jerry, a tool and die maker who built dies for local manufacturing companies before branching out on his own at the age of 32.

Jerry opened his company on 23rd Avenue with two employees. Two years later, the company moved to a larger facility down the street with eight employees.

In 1985, Rockford Toolcraft built a new 21,000 square-foot plant at its current location on Research Parkway, and started

a stamping division with three presses.

A second plant is located on 11th Street.

Over time, the company has added significant machinery and other equipment to its facilities. Today, the company has 55 heavy gauge stamping presses, a 50-person toolroom, 10 die designers, and 3D CAD design and cutting edge software. The staff has grown to 350 employees.

“Our constant re-investment in technology, equipment and most importantly, our skilled team of professionals, has made us a leader in our industry,” said Busse, who started working for his father in high school and became president two years ago. “We have a good, solid crew.”

Like most businesses, Rockford Toolcraft has had its financial challenges.

In 2008, for example, heavy truck sales dipped by 50 percent. Fortunately, the agricultural industry has remained strong. Busse said he has never laid off staff during its 37-year history. And the future looks even brighter: Rockford Toolcraft has seen sales double in the past three years, and has added 100 new employees during that time. “We’ve been fortunate not to have incurred heavy debt,” Tom said. “And we’ve been blessed with good customers.”

Jerry and Tom have both served as board members of the National Tooling and Machining Association’s local chapter. They strongly support apprentice programs that teach future workers the necessary skills to compete for available positions. “Training is ongoing,” Busse said. “It’s like planting an acorn. It takes years to groom the right people into positions.”

He is confident that skilled labor can be found right here in Rockford. “There have been generations of good workers here who are dedicated to their work and community. You don’t see that in every part of the country.”

rockford toolcraft Jerry Busse, CEO; Tom Busse, president 766 Research Pkwy., Rockford 815-398-5507 www.rockfordtoolcraft.com

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January 2014

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

The Affordable Care Act and small business in 2014 According to the Small Business Administration (SBA), affordable health care has been the leading concern for small business owners over many years.

This largely is due to the fact that until now small businesses have paid on average 18 percent more for health insurance than big business.

Ray Empereur services and Winnebago County devices Health Department 8) laboratory services 9) preventive and wellness services and chronic disease management 10) pediatric care

Beginning in 2014, if a small business of up to 50 full-time equivalent (FTE) employees chooses to offer health insurance coverage, there is a new way to do so, through the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) Marketplace.

The ACA is reducing premium cost growth and increasing access to affordable care. Since 2010, eligible small businesses have been able to get tax credits worth up to 35 percent of their premium contributions to help them pay for health insurance. Beginning in 2014, the tax credits increase to up to 50 percent of premium contributions.

An estimated 200,000 employers have claimed the credit each year since 2010.

Beginning in 2014, the self-employed and small businesses have access to a range of affordable health care options, no matter where they are located.

Beginning in 2014, if a small business of up to 50 full-time equivalent (FTE) employees chooses to offer health insurance coverage, there is a new way to do so, through the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) Marketplace.

The SHOP spurs competition for customers based on price and quality, rather than by avoiding risk, and works to pool risks for small groups and reduce administrative complexity, thereby reducing costs.

The SHOP offers small employers with up to 50 employees: 1) A choice of qualified health plans from different private health insurers – more than 30 are available in Winnebago County.

2) Meaningful comparison between plans.

3) Choice to work with an insurance broker, agent, or independently.

4) To take advantage of the enhanced level (up to 50 percent) of Small Business Health Care Tax Credits.

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) will help small business owners overcome several obstacles, including: 1) Too few choices.

2) Higher premiums and unpredicted rate increases.

3) Higher rates for groups with women, older workers and those with chronic health concerns or high-cost illnesses.

4) Waiting periods or no coverage for individuals with pre-existing conditions.

Under ACA regulations, insurance companies face limits on administrative spending. Most insurers must now spend at least 80 percent of consumer’s premium dollars on actual medical care. They also must disclose and justify proposed rate hikes of 10 percent or more, which states or the federal government, may review and deny.

New for 2014, insurance companies: 1) Can’t charge higher rates or deny coverage because of a chronic or preexisting condition.

2) Can’t charge higher rates for women, and face limits on charging additional premiums for older employees.

3) Will pool risks across small groups, creating larger pools like big business.

4) Must not have annual dollar limits on coverage.

5) Must offer plans that provide a core package of “Essential Health Benefits.”

Essential Health Benefits that insurance companies must offer to small businesses include: 1) outpatient services 2) emergency services 3) hospitalization 4) maternity and newborn care 5) mental health and substance use disorder services 6) prescription drugs 7) habilitative and rehabilitative

New SHOP Marketplace

During 2014, eligible business owners may enroll directly through an issuer or broker who is registered with SHOP. Owners may compare plans and download the eligibility form at www.healthcare.gov.

Small business owners are urged to discuss SHOP with your insurance agent or broker. For more detailed information you also may contact me at rayemp@ comcast.net or 815-963-0844.

Ray Empereur, MPA, is a registered navigator for the Winnebago County Health Department.

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

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

11

January 2014

Thank you

to the 2013 Ambassadors

Thank you to the Rockford Chamber Ambassadors for their hospitality at ribbon cuttings, open houses and events in 2013.

Front Row L to R: Chad DaMarre, Anthony Mencarini, Lori Barker, Janet Fischer, Lisa James, Mary Beth Clausen, Kathleen Siedenburg, Troy Oates, Andy Krauss Back Row L to R: Barb Lane, Mary Jo Hare, Lisa Radant, Sue Boyer, Pat Casazza, Stacy Wallace, Jean Lopez, Diane Navickis, Karen Keller, Jocelyn Hare, Erin Jahn, Diane James, Jan Hagenlocher, Jamie Lauer, Karen Tilly, Bea Ricotta, Barb Berman, Terri Beyer Not Pictured: Adriana Krauss, Carly Stokstad, Chad Henry, Cindy Nicolosi, Debbie Klinefelter, Denise Wimmer, Eddie Valdes, Eden Bruning, Libby Simms, Elizabeth Spade, Erica Carey, Erin Bedows, Joanne Blaser, Jonathan Whitmore, Kay King, Kellie Miller, Kelly Vinje, Len Eisele, Lisa Moore, Mary Ann Canarau-Henry, Mary Ann Gaunt, Mary Campbell, Michelle Lewis, Michelle Quast, Paula McCann, Peter Gaddis, Ranae Bergman, Ray King, Rick Peters, Robbin Snodgrass, Sam Bowers

Rockford University PERSPECTIVE

Resolve, no PLAN, to improve Transform through education, community service The New Year brings with it a time to reflect over what we’ve accomplished during the past year and resolutions for the future. As a leader, you can neither be too focused on the past nor too set in the present, for the success of your organization lies in the future. You can however be informed by and learn from the past and make sound decisions in the present to move you and your organization to a brighter future.

Many people make New Year’s resolutions only to break them a few weeks (or if you’re lucky) months later.

The problem is, these resolutions are really just dreams not supported by any concrete plans to actually accomplish the dream. Leaders in organizations need to do better, they need to make and execute plans; they need to turn their dreams into organizational realities.

If all the leaders of area organizations make specific plans to improve their organizations over the next 12 months, we will see great results not only inside the organizations, but also in this community as a whole.

What sort of things can you as a leader plan to improve? You can plan on better educating yourself and your followers by taking a class, starting to work on a degree and/or signing up for executive development training. If you and everyone in your organization committed just two hours a month to education, how transformative would that be? What about two hours a week?

Educational Opportunities Everywhere At Rockford University, we offer many educational opportunities for you and others in your organization. There

is a full undergraduate curriculum, an accelerated degree completion program in business, and the master’s in business administration. However, we also offer a five-course graduate MBA certificate as well as an extensive non-credit Leadership Development Program. Beginning in January, we again will be hosting talks from the People You Should Know in Rockford. These free talks will be on the first, third, and fifth Wednesdays of each month over the noon hour and are a great way to develop yourself and others.

Rockford University is not the only place you can look to for educational opportunities.

The Rockford Area Chamber of Commerce, Rock Valley College and all the other local colleges have many beneficial development opportunities. Think of the positive returns for your organization if you and all the people you lead take one course, attend one seminar or chamber event or participate in one workshop over the next 12 months! You lose a few hours of short-run “productivity,” but the long run returns will be tremendous.

Transform through Community Service You also could have everyone in your organization give an hour or two a week to improving this community through service. Think of what this effort will do for our community. It again will be transformative for you, your organization and this area.

There is a new initiative in town getting a lot of attention called Transform Rockford, that is, in my opinion, creating a unique opportunity for all of us to become involved in creating a better tomorrow for this area. There are many

skeptics regarding this effort, however, if you look at the process as it relates to this effort, you will see it is founded in effective planning principles. It is NOT a pipe dream, but a focused effort to develop and execute a multi-year strategic plan to improve this area.

You can directly or indirectly help or hurt this Transform effort. If you spend time this year improving yourself and your people through education and training, you indirectly help this effort because, as your organization improve, so does our community. If you volunteer and encourage others to volunteer in the Transform effort, you directly support this effort through your hard work. On the other hand, if you do nothing to improve yourself and your people, or if you spend your time being negative towards the Transform effort, you will be stifling this transformation by committing yourself, your people and this community to mediocrity.

As we

leaders, need

to

continually work transform

to

Jeff Fahrenwald Rockford University

ourselves, our organizations and this community.

It is easy to do nothing or to be negative towards transformative efforts. It is hard work to get involved, to commit to education and to encourage others to do the same. As leaders, REALLY make a difference this year and turn dreams into realities by working to improve yourself, your people, your organization and the Rockford area. You’ll be glad you did!

Jeffrey Fahrenwald is the director of the MBA program at Rockford University.

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

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FocUS oN cHEcKS ANd BAlANcES

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

Paying income taxes Taking a proactive approach

As business owners, paying taxes are a result of being successful and earning a profit. The cost of taxes must be looked at as a cost of doing business, the same as rent, utilities, merchandise and labor.

As we plan what we want our business financial statement to look like, we need to determine what we want to have left over after tax in order to have cash for growth and re-investment in our business. A successful business must have profit to remain in business, and paying taxes on that profit is necessary. We as business owners must determine how we pay the tax, whether it is to be at the “corporate” level or at the “personal” (individual) level. We then look at the tax brackets and see at what level we have the most dollars left after tax.

As individuals, paying tax is a result of earning income. We, of course, do have the option of not having income and living in a lesser lifestyle. We must be discerning taxpayers.

I am of the very strong opinion that if we plan for the taxes that we pay, it is much easier to accept. Simply because we were involved in making the decision, rather than paying taxes as a result of not planning.

For individuals, planning the timing of your income and deductions will allow you to become more comfortable with your tax bill. Planning on when we receive income is very important as we look at our current tax bracket.

■ Do we want the income in the current year or at a later time when we may be in a lower tax bracket?

■ What is the net cost of giving?

John F. Morrissey If we donate John Morrissey $1,000 and our Accountants, Inc. top tax bracket is 20 percent, then the contribution only cost us $800, the other $200 would have been paid in taxes.

How Taxes Affect Others Let’s take a look at itemized deductions and how they affect you and others. a. Taxes State income — supports our infrastructure Real Estate — supports infrastructure of our schools and other amenities in our community b. Interest Home Mortgage — supports the housing industry and those who earn their living building and maintaining housing c. Contributions — by sharing our earnings with non-profit organizations we are helping those in need of resources for a better existence As you can quickly see, tax planning often raises more questions than just what is happening “today.” However, you can also see that by engaging in tax planning, you know what you are paying and why.

Paying taxes is a sign and result of financial success. Paying income tax is a privilege we have for being citizens of this country.

As citizens, we are entitled to the franchises that go with citizenship. Paying taxes is voluntary and is a result of the decisions that we have made.

I determined a long time ago that I have a lot more fun when I pay more taxes, because it means that I have earned more money.

■ Do we want to receive retirement income currently because we will be in a higher tax bracket next year? You may start receiving retirement income after you become 59½ and must start when you reach 70½. There John F. Morrissey, John Morrissey Accountants, is a period of time when you have choices.

Inc., has more than 40 years of experience working ■ When do we sell a capital gain asset so with businesses and individuals in tax planning as to keep the capital gain tax at the least and preparation. amount? There is a maximum on capital gain tax, and it is most always less than the The views expressed are those of Morrissey’s and tax on ordinary income, and sometimes it do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford can be zero.

Chamber of Commerce.

January 2014 theVoice rockfordchamber.com

IRS warns of pervasive telephone scam The Internal Revenue Service recently warned consumers about a sophisticated phone scam targeting taxpayers, including recent immigrants, throughout the country. Victims are told they owe money to the IRS, and it must be paid promptly through a pre-loaded debit card or wire transfer.

If the victim refuses to cooperate, they are threatened with arrest, deportation or suspension of a business or driver’s license. In many cases, the caller becomes hostile and insulting.

“This scam has hit taxpayers in nearly every state in the country,” said IRS Acting Commissioner Danny Werfel.

“Rest assured, we do not and will not ask for credit card numbers over the phone, nor request a pre-paid debit card or wire transfer. If someone unexpectedly calls claiming to be from the IRS and threatens police arrest, deportation or license revocation if you don’t pay immediately, that is a sign that it really isn’t the IRS calling.” Werfel noted that the first IRS contact with taxpayers on a tax issue is likely to occur via mail.

Here’s What you Should Do

If you get a phone call from someone claiming to be from the IRS …

Call 800-829-1040 if you know you owe taxes or think you might owe taxes.

IRS employees can help you with a payment issue — if there really is such an issue.

Call and report the incident to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at 800-366-4484 if you know you don’t owe taxes or have no reason to think that you owe any taxes (You’ve never received a bill or the caller made some bogus threats as described above).

Contact the Federal Trade Commission and use their “FTC Complaint Assistant” at FTC.gov if you’ve been targeted by this scam.

Characteristics of the Scam Please add “IRS Telephone Scam” to the ■ Scammers use fake names and comments of your complaint.

IRS badge numbers. They generally Taxpayers should be aware that there use common names and surnames to are other unrelated scams (such as a lottery sweepstakes) and solicitations identify themselves. (such as debt relief) that fraudulently ■ Scammers may be able to recite claim to be from the IRS. the last four digits of a victim’s social The IRS encourages taxpayers to be security number. vigilant against phone and email scams ■ Scammers spoof the IRS toll-free that use the IRS as a lure. The IRS does number on caller ID to make it appear not initiate contact with taxpayers by that it’s the IRS calling. email to request personal or financial ■ Scammers sometimes send bogus information. This includes any type of IRS emails to some victims to support electronic communication, such as text messages and social media channels. their bogus calls.

The IRS also does not ask for PINs, ■ Victims hear background noise of passwords or similar confidential access other calls being conducted to mimic a information for credit card, bank or other call site. financial accounts. Recipients should not ■ After threatening victims with jail open any attachments or click on any time or driver’s license revocation, links contained in the message. Instead, scammers hang up and others soon call forward the e-mail to phishing@irs.gov. back pretending to be from the local More information on how to report police or DMV, and the caller ID supports phishing scams involving the IRS is available at IRS.gov. their claim.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

FocUS oN cHEcKS ANd BAlANcES

January 2014

Tax Quotes

When it comes to taxes, everyone has an opinion. These quotes reflect the opinions of their authors; their inclusion here is not an official IRS endorsement of the sentiments expressed.

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Rockford Park District presents 2014 budget $31,181,588, an increase of $866,614 or 3 percent compared to the 2013 budget.

thing in the world to understand

During its Nov. 26 board meeting, the Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners gave the overall direction of securing 1.5 percent of available funds from the Consumer Price Index and new growth for the 2013 tax levy.

The EAV, tax levy extension, and tax rates are only estimates. Actual information will not be available until spring, 2014. The park district budget was impacted by economic conditions, including declining EAV, sensitivity to increasing fees given citizens’ inability to pay and increasing costs of doing business.

The park district’s 2014 budget is balanced for the 105th consecutive year, within available resources, and is aligned to achieve the district’s priority results, maintain its operational fund balances and fund the 2014 Capital Improvement Program.

The district continues to reduce administrative costs, re-bid and negotiate contracts, reduce and/or eliminate programs, adjust program/ facility schedules when attendance expectations are not met, and cancel programs in an effort to operate even more efficiently.

Albert Einstein, physicist

2014 Budget by the Numbers

■ Revenue increases for Foundation legacy programs and maintenance of new parks.

“The power

of taxing people and their property is essential to the very existence of government.”

James Madison, U.S. President

“Income tax has made

more liars out of the American people than golf.”

Will Rogers, humorist

“The hardest

is the income tax.”

■ The 2014 operating budget is

“Taxes are what we pay for

civilized society.”

Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr., U.S. Supreme Court Justice

“I’m proud

to be paying

taxes in the United States. The only

thing is, I could be just as proud for half

the money.”

Arthur Godfrey, entertainer

“The best measure of a man’s honesty isn’t his income tax return It’s the zero adjust on his bathroom scale.”

Arthur C. Clarke, author

“A tax loophole is something that benefits the other guy. If it benefits you, it is tax reform.”

Russell B. Long, U.S. Senator Source: www.irs.gov

■ The 2014 $9,487,934.

capital

budget

is

Changes to the 2014 Budget ■ Funding reductions to the museum, police and therapeutic recreation funds, due to tax rates reaching maximum amounts.

■ Rockford School District 205 Programming Partnership revenue and expense increase of $92,892 for the 2014 Summer School Program.

■ Net staffing modifications, include no full time layoffs and the reorganization and reduction of administrative costs in financial services, golf, maintenance and recreation administration.

■ Internal service departments, program and facility operational efficiencies and reductions.

■ A 2 percent wage increase for fulltime and seasonal staff and a 1 percent increase in benefit costs from 2013 to 2014, due to a slight increase for health insurance and retirement benefits.

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January 2014 theVoice rockfordchamber.com

FOCUS ON CHECKS AND BALANCES

Issues to Watch LEGISLATIVE The following is current Illinois legislation on state taxes, and the Illinois Chamber of Commerce’s positions.

taxeS

False Claims (HB0074) Prohibits any court jurisdiction over a civil action relating to a false claim regarding certain tax acts administered by the Department of Revenue, unless the action is brought by the Attorney General. Chamber Initiative.

Sponsor: Rep. Zalewski (D-Riverside) Status: Referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Support EDGE Tax Credit Refundable (HB0967) Any credit awarded under EDGE may exceed the tax liability for the year the credit is computed. Provides that excess credit amounts may be carried forward and applied to the tax liability of the five taxable years following the excess credit year or refunded to the taxpayer.

Sponsor: Rep. Beiser (D-Alton) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Support Space Property Tax (HB1053) Taxes land not as open land, but at full cash value.

Sponsor: Rep. Sullivan (R-Mundelein) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose Income Tax Reduction (HB1064) Reduces the rate of tax to 3% for individuals, trusts and estates, and 4.8% for corporations.

Sponsor: Rep. Moylan (D-Des Plaines) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Support Training Expense Credit (HB10720) Reinstates the training expense credit for tax years. Increases the amount of the credit from 1.6% of training expenses to 2% of training expenses.

Sponsor: Rep. Lang (D-Skokie) Status: Referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Support R&D Tax Credit (HB1204) Makes R&D tax credit permanent.

Sponsor: Rep. Sosnowski (R-Rockford) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Support EDGE Credits (HB1336) Changes how the EDGE credit is administered by moving approval of EDGE credits to a new Economic

Development Board appointed by the Governor, limiting the amount and duration of the EDGE credit, and capping the total amount of EDGE credits to be awarded in FY 2014 to $100 million.

Sponsor: Rep. Franks (D-Woodstock) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose Capital Gains Credit (HB1498) Gives a tax credit equal to 50% of a taxpayer’s qualified investments for a taxable year. Qualifying businesses mustn’t exceed annual gross revenues of $3,000,000.

Sponsor: Rep. Kay (R-Edwardsville) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Support EDGE Tax Incentive Payments (HB1500) Makes R&D tax credit permanent.

Sponsor: Rep. Kay (R-Edwardsville) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Support Income Tax Carryover (HB1510) Provides that no met loss carryover deduction shall exceed $100,000 for any taxable year ending on or after Dec. 31, 2012 and prior to Dec. 31, 2013 (instead of Dec. 31, 2014).

Sponsor: Rep. Wheeler (R-Fox Lake) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Support Financial Transaction Tax (HB1554) Imposes a 1% tax on the value of all financial transactions at all the Chicago exchanges.

Sponsor: Rep. Flowers (D-Chicago) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose Petroleum Exemption (HB2499) Provides changes to petroleum products to allow exemptions to fuel and petroleum products sold to or used by an aircraft carrier.

Sponsor: Rep. Currie (D-Chicago)/Sen. Harmon (D-Oak Park) Status: Passed House 78-34-0/ Placed on Calendar Order of 3rd Reading Illinois Chamber Position: Support Electric Utility Invested Capital Tax (HB2558) Would remove the (indexed) tax cap, limiting the amount of invested capital tax paid by electric utilities. Amounts

paid in over the cap amount currently are credited back to the utilities, and consumers receive the benefit of the credit through the formula rate mechanism. Removing the cap will result in higher electrical costs to consumers.

Sponsor: Rep. Bradley (D- Marion) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose

Sponsor: Rep. Jakobsson (D-Champaign) Status: Referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose

difficult method that requires analyzing 12 different criteria and considering the degree to which each activity occurs at a particular location—with no one activity being determinative— to determine in which municipality or county the sale takes place.

Sponsor: Rep. Franks (D-Woodstock) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose

Social Security Number Protection (SB2243) Aims at eliminating the requirement in the Retailers’ Occupation Tax Act (ROTA) that corporate officers must submit their personal Social Security number on the ROTA registration forms. Chamber Initiative.

Sponsor: Sen. Holmes (D-Aurora)/Rep. Currie (D-Chicago) Status: Passed Senate 52-0-0/Sales and Other Taxes Subcommittee Illinois Chamber Position: Support

Tax Cap Amendment (SB0043) Provides that a new rate may not exceed the statutory ceiling above which the tax is not authorized to be increased applies only for levy years Use Tax/OCC Electricity (HB2559) 2005 through 2012.

Amends the various sales tax acts to Sponsor: Sen. Lightford (D-Maywood) provide that electricity, natural or artificial Status: Postponed – Revenue gas, and water delivered through pipes, Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose pipelines or mains are not tangible Property Tax Objection (SB1403) personal property subject to sales tax, States that if a taxpayer objects and the producers of electric, natural gas to all or any part of a property tax or water service are not manufacturers assessment, the taxpayer may choose for purposes of the machinery and to pay all of the tax due or pay the equipment exemption. amount of tax due for the year minus Sponsor: Rep. Bradley (D-Marion) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee the amount attributed to any portion of the amount of the reduction in Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose assessed value. Amendment No. Property Tax Recapture (HB2901) 1 provides that if the requested in HB 2901 protects refund monies due assessed valuation is greater than to commercial and industrial taxpayers 25%, the taxpayer shall pay at least who challenge property tax assessments 75% of the tax due. they believe to be inaccurate and gives Sponsor: Sen. Noland (D-Elgin) and new fiscal tools to local taxing districts Sen. Althoff (R-McHenry) faced with substantial refunds when a Status: Re-referred to Assignments large commercial or industrial taxpayer Illinois Chamber Position: Support successfully challenges their property Cell Phone Commission Tax (SB1743) tax assessment. Chamber Initiative.

In regards to cell phones, the “selling Sponsor: Rep. Zalewski (D-Riverside) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee price” and “gross receipts” do not include consideration paid by a thirdIllinois Chamber Position: Support party cellular service provider. Prohibits ROTA Sourcing (HB3249) a tax on the commission of cell phones Changes the way retailers source their at retail stores. sales for purposes of determining the Sponsor: Sen. Rose (R-Campaign)/Rep. appropriate local sales tax rate. In Hays (R-Danville) place of the current law, which simply Status: Passed Senate 52-0-1/Relooks to where the purchase order referred to Rules Committee is accepted, HB 3249 would require Illinois Chamber Position: Support retailers to implement a much more

Graduated Income Tax (HJRCA0002) Will result in a higher income tax for all employees.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

January 2014

FOCUS ON CHECKS AND BALANCES

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FOCUS ON MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS

January 2014 theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Marketing/Communications Buzzwords Know, understand and (maybe) use Bricks and Clicks (and Flips). Also termed as clicks and bricks, click and mortar, bricks, clicks and flips. It’s a business model by which a company integrates both offline (bricks) and online (clicks) presences, sometimes with the third extra flips (physical catalogs). Additionally, many will also offer telephone ordering as well, or at least provide telephone sales support.

Buzzword Compliant. In the technology industry, buzzword compliant is a tongue-in-cheek expression used to suggest that a particular product supports features simply because they are currently fashionable, such as Java-based programs in the late 1990s, Ajax or Web 2.0 in 2000s and 2010s, and Cloud computing in 2010s.

Coopetition. Describes cooperative competition; when companies cooperate with each other to reach a higher value creation, and then struggle to achieve competitive advantage. Often coopetition takes place when companies in the same market work together in the exploration of knowledge and research of new products, at the same time that they compete for

market-share of their products and in the exploitation of the knowledge created. Interactions can occur simultaneously and in different levels in the value chain.

Hyperlocal. Information oriented around a well defined community, with its primary focus directed toward the concerns of its residents, such as online news or content services pertaining to a town, village, single postcode or other small, geographically defined community.

Mission critical. Refers to any factor of a system (equipment, process, procedure, software, etc.) whose failure will result in the failure of business operations; that is critical to the organization’s mission.

Touchpoint. Also known as a contact point, customer contact, Moment of Truth, point of contact. It describes the interface of a product, service or brand with customers/users, noncustomers, employees and other stakeholders, before, during and after a transaction. This can applied in business-to-business as well as business-to-consumer environments.

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org

Others that made the radar in 2013 Atomization – Take individual pieces of content and spread them across different marketing channels.

Digital Native – This is a phrase used to describe those born during the digital age. Note: “digital natives” do not like being referred to as “digital natives.”

Disruption – If you’re talking about an innovation or technology that is creating a new market while shaking up an existing market (or replacing an earlier technology), then you’ve got a disruption.

Immersive Experience – A catchy way to explain pretty much any visual or digital marketing experience.

Influencer – Another word for this is a “thought leader,” or an important person in your industry.

Leverage – When marketers indicate they intend to leverage strategy “X” to achieve “Y,” they’re really just saying that they are going to use strategy “X.” Ninja – Let’s throw rockstar, guru, and wizard into the ring. Someone who is really good at what they do.

Pain Point – Fixing problems. But a word to the wise, marketers run the risk of sounding a little pretentious when the phrase “pain points” is overused.

Push the Envelope – Testing your boundaries or pushing the limits of what’s been done in the past.

Return on Involvement – Brands that are more involved with their communities will see a greater return on investment.

Snackable Content – The trend of producing content that is shorter-form and easier to digest.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

FOCUS ON MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS

January 2014

17

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

Why Google+ matters for online marketing Smart marketers should keep a close eye on Google+. Launched in 2011, Google+ is the newest of the major social networks. In just over six months, the platform amassed more than 90 million users, posing a serious challenge to LinkedIn’s 135 million members. Despite this impressive growth, the adoption of Google+ pales compared to that of Facebook, with more than 800 million users.

Google+ was open to individuals for personal use from the beginning, with the ability to share stories with their circles, get involved in discussions and participate in video conference calls, called Hangouts.

However, the social network did not immediately provide businesses with much value, leaving many marketers to wonder how to truly benefit from Google+.

Eventually, Google+ rolled out business pages, enabling companies to create pages, and encouraging businesses to grow their following. But why should marketers, who already must maintain their company Facebook page, LinkedIn profile and Twitter feed, not to mention a company website and blog, be concerned with yet another social network?

10 Quick Facts About Google+ 1. Pages can’t add people to Circles until the page is added first or mentioned.

2. Pages can be made for a variety of different entities, whereas profiles can only be made for people.

3. The default privacy setting for elements on your business page is public.

4. Google+ Pages automatically unfollow you, if you unfollow them.

5. Pages have the +1 button (Google+ parlance for an endorsement).

6. Pages can’t +1 other pages, nor can they +1 content on the web.

7. Pages don’t receive notifications via email, text or in the Google bar.

8. Pages don’t have the option to share to ‘Extended Circles.’

9. Local pages have special fields that help people find the business’ physical location.

10. Google+ Pages can’t even mention you unless you’re connected.

Features of Google+ for Business Google+ allows businesses to create pages and develop relationships with prospects and customers on many levels.

Individuals can add a brand to a specific Google+ Circle, share a Google+ page with their network, and interact with the content posted by that company. For instance, users can +1 a company, leave comments, upload photos and tag the brand in them. An interesting aspect of this platform is that its Hangouts feature enables companies to

engage with fans, prospects and customers through video conference calls.

also rolled out

Benefits of Google+ in Search

the tweet or

There are a number of ways Google+ influences how a website gets traffic from Google’s search engine, whether by boosting its position in search results, increasing the chances that people will click into the site, or other factors.

Improving Google’s Intelligence As a result of Google+, Google is able to enhance its search engine results with information gathered from users’ social circles. By using the social elements of Google+, Google can better understand trends and predict what people are interested in. By combining what Google knows about a visitor’s search query with their search habits, and those of their social circles, Google can return more relevant and targeted ads and search results, similar to the way a friend might recommend a solution to a question.

Improved Search Result Quality Another benefit is that results become much harder to cheat. Google can now more easily police who has a real profile and who is a spammer. When Google sees profiles that only share and vote for things on one website, or others dominated exclusively by +1s, it might get suspicious.

Changing How You Get Traffic Google

its

version

share

of

button,

the +1. These +1

Chris Kelley V2 Marketing Communications

buttons

appear in Google’s search results and can be embedded on other websites as well.

They are tied to a destination page address, such as a blog article or landing page, just like shares or tweets. The +1 count that is displayed on each button is tied on the address of the page where it is displayed.

Change the URL of a page of your site, and the +1 count will be reset. And the number of +1 votes affects its Quality Score, which is critical for paid ads on Google.

Despite its slow rate of adoption, Google+ is not just any social network.

Google+ is a social network powered by the search engine giant Google. The platform has a direct impact on search results and reshaping the user’s experience of doing research in Google.

Chris

Kelley

works

at

V2

Marketing

Communications.

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

18

January 2014 theVoice rockfordchamber.com

FOCUS ON MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

I wish I knew then what I know now When it comes to making marketing and business decisions, it is possible to add more certainty to critical decision— making: no hindsight required. You can get surprisingly accurate brand and product insights as well as “predict” customer intentions using a crystal ball known as qualitative research.

At GrahamSpencer, we are true believers in the practice, and employ a proprietary qualitative process we call GSearch to dive deep for information we need to help our clients better understand their businesses’ public perceptions, market realities, competitive context and more.

The hoped-for outcome of the process is quality information leading to smart business and communications strategies. Qualitative research, in our views, is oftentimes worth its weight in gold — but it doesn’t have to break the bank.

What is it, exactly? Wikipedia suggests that qualitative research, “investigates the why and and how of decision making, not just the what, where and when.” This stands in sharp contrast to quantitative research, which asks a series of closed-ended questions

While many businesspeople feel they know their companies well by virtue of leading their everyday operations, very few actually know with any degree of certainty how their companies, products, services and processes are viewed by others — especially outsiders. in relatively sterile contexts and formats.

While many businesspeople feel they know their companies well by virtue of leading their everyday operations, very few actually know with any degree of certainty how their companies, products, services and processes are viewed by others — especially outsiders.

And, in all honesty, nobody is in a poorer position to find out than a C-level executive or owner. When asking probing questions, such leaders are too often told what they want to hear as opposed to what they need to hear. Getting to roots of those truths accurately is the job of experienced, skilled third-party professionals.

Researchers use many techniques in the process of conducting qualitative research, but what contributes to the dependability of the results is the

opportunity to dig deep below the surface of ordinary A/B or multiple choice explorations. In our experience, qualitative customer interface has often led to surprising insights, sometimes even game-changing ones, for our clients.

An excellent example of a good research-driven solution was our Horsepower With a Purpose fuel campaign Road Ranger, LLC. We sought, through GSearch, to understand how we could effectively drive loyalty in what was becoming an increasingly commodity business.

By listening — truly listening — to Road Ranger’s customers, we were able to devise a new way of talking about Road Ranger’s fuels (the horsepower that goes in your tank) as well as devise a way for Road Ranger and its customers

to help assure the sustained Jay Graham GrahamSpencer freedom of Brand + Content wild horses and burros in the American west (our wild American horsepower legacy). And that made everybody feel good about their association with the brand. We eventually successfully extended the concept to the company’s coffee category (Mustang Ridge Coffee Co.) and proprietary private label water (Mustang Valley Springs Water).

The program drove excellent results and is in place to this day, several years after qualitative research was first conducted. If you’re mining for marketing communications gold, you must go below the surface for quality results. I encourage you to explore the use of qualitative research.

Jay Graham is founding partner and cocreative director at GrahamSpencer Brand + Content.

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

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

19

January 2014

Reconstruction of Morgan Street Bridge complete The City of Rockford, the State of Illinois, the Illinois Department of Transportation and the 5th Ward celebrated the official opening of the Morgan Street Bridge with ribbon cutting ceremony on Dec. 17, preceded by a short reception in the City Hall lobby.

The Morgan Street Bridge, first constructed in 1916, and rehabilitated in 1960, was deteriorating quickly, threatening east-west traffic flow on the near south side of the city. In 1999, city staff and a small group of area stakeholders kicked off what would become one of the most iconic public works projects in the history of Rockford. Stakeholders began planning for the replacement of the structure as not only a transportation project, but as an iconic structure.

“It was obvious that the bridge was in poor condition, and at the same time, we had a neighborhood surrounding it that was challenged,” said Jim Ryan, city administrator.

“It was evident by talking to the citizens in the neighborhood that approaching the project as a typical replacement project would have been an opportunity missed,” said Rockford Mayor Larry Morrissey.

“The project needed a vision, a connection to our history and to the people who were struggling to create a neighborhood.”

Planning and design took 10 years before construction.

“The city and state worked collectively

to find the gap funding we needed in order to get the bridge built,” Mayor Morrissey said. “The commitment to the project by Governor Quinn and our local legislative delegation really made the project possible.”

Creating an Iconic Structure The $29 million Morgan Street Bridge project was awarded in July, 2011. The design called for a tied arch structure with a 370-foot span, which would carry four lanes of traffic and include a 10-footwide multi-use path on the south side and sidewalks on the north side.

The total cost of the project came to $40 million, as it included extensive land acquisition, the railroad consolidation project, and the road reconstruction of both College Avenue and Morgan Street.

Road improvements include the total reconstruction of College Avenue from Kishwaukee Street to the east side of the bridge (widening to three lanes) and Morgan Street from the new bridge to South Main on the west side (widening to four lanes). A roundabout was constructed at the Seminary Street and College Avenue intersection just east of the bridge.

“The design is unique in Rockford and creates a visual presence throughout the Rock River corridor and in the downtown core,” said Matthew Vitner, city engineer.

“The bridge is very important to the entire south side of the City of Rockford,” said Venita Hervey, 5th Ward alderman and lifelong southwest side resident. “It not only connects one side of the river to the other, but it connects neighborhoods.

It is a symbol about what is good in our community and that our revitalization efforts, particularly along the South Main Corridor, are just beginning. With the upcoming re-construction of South Main,

The ribbon cutting on Dec. 17 marks the official opening of the Morgan Street Bridge.

“Since I have been governor we have built 1,280 bridges, but there is no better bridge than right here in Morgan Street,” says Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn at the ribbon cutting.

“This community now has a great bridge which brings us physically together, but the symbol, the spiritual and emotional lift we’ll get from this bridge will speak even louder,” says Rockford Mayor Larry Morrissey. a train station project in the not-to-distant future, it shows that good things are coming to southeast Rockford.”

20

January 2014

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Members Caught on Digital ON DIGITAL Ceremonial ribbon donated by SERVPRO of Rockford.

Van Matre HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital holds a groundbreaking ceremony on Dec. 5 at 950 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, for its 10-bed addition and modernization project, which will result in 61 private patient rooms. Construction is expected to be completed the third quarter of 2014.

Rick Carter, public affairs manager, Illinois Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka’s office, presents Cheryl Sio, president of MembersAlliance Credit Union, with a proclamation commemorating the credit union’s 75th anniversary.

“This all started with a small group of Sundstrand employees who wanted to make it possible for workers to get a loan and receive a decent return on their money,” Sio said. “I wish they could be here now to see what their idea has become.”

The credit union held a ribbon cutting and celebration of its 75th anniversary on Dec. 10 at its facility at 2550 S. Alpine Road, Rockford.

Charles Schwab holds a ribbon cutting and open house on Dec. 11 at 801 N. Perryville Road, Rockford.

Regional, National Indicators THE ECONOMy Population Clock

U.S. Indicators

As of December 17, 2013:

November, 2013

U.S. 317,257,027

World 7,131,316,675

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Consumer Price Index

q 0.1 percent

Unemployment Rate

Midwest Manufacturing Output Increased in October The Chicago Fed Midwest Manufacturing Index (CFMMI) increased 0.4 percent in October, to a seasonally adjusted level of 97.4 (2007 = 100). The Federal Reserve Board’s industrial production index for manufacturing (IPMFG) moved up 0.3 percent in October. Regional output rose 5.7 percent in October from a year earlier, and national output increased 3.6 percent.

Monthly Index

% Change

June 13

July 13

August 13

August 12 - 13

Chicago Mfg. Index

96.7

97.0

97.4

CFMMI-Auto

99.7

100.9

CFMMI-Steel

92.5

CFMMI-Machinery

7.0 percent

Payroll Employment

p 203,000

Average Hourly Earnings

p $0.04

Producer Price Index

q 0.1 percent

Employment Cost Index

p 0.4 percent (third quarter, 2013)

Productivity

p 3.0 percent (third quarter, 2013)

U.S. Import Price Index

q 0.6 percent

U.S. Export Price Index

q 0.1 percent

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Unemployment Rates—Region, State, Nation Oct 13

Sep 13

Oct 12

Rockford

10.5

10.5

10.6

0.0

q 0.1

5.7

Chicago

8.3

8.4

8.4

q 0.1

q 0.1

100.7

8.7

Illinois

8.3

8.3

8.3

0.0

0.0

92.2

94.2

5.9

United States

7.0

7.0

7.5

0.0

q 0.5

97.5

99.1

98.7

4.5

CFMMI-Resource

91.9

90.6

90.9

1.7

IPMFG

97.4

97.4

97.8

3.6

Source: Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago

Source: U.S. Department of Employment Security

Change/Mo. Change/Yr.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

21

January 2014

the News IN Members THEin NEWS

1. Dick Bennett

2. David Gomel

3. Lucas Perks

4. Michelle Polivka

5. Dr. Matthew L. Hunsaker

6. Sean Gjestson

7. Tari Book

8. Nichole Dickerson

9. Nathan Kass

10. Dawna Ullrich

11. Shawn McGuire

12. Tanzee Miller

13. Dave Holterman

14. Marci Meyer

15. Sean E. O’Dell

16. Derek J. Wold

Board Appointments, RETIREMENTS

The YMCA of Rock River Valley welcomed new members to its board for three-year terms: Dick Bennett (1), David Gomel (2), Lucas Perks (3) and Michelle Polivka (4).

The Alliance elected Mark Rieland and Mark Stevens to three-year and Larry Pribyl to one-year board terms beginning in January, 2014. Three board members were re-elected for three-year terms: Mary Kay Brooks, Jennifer Pagels and Kyle Reading.

New Hires, Promotions, Retirements

Rockford Country Club welcomed Deanna Watts as membership sales associate.

LDR Construction Services, Inc, LDR Cleaning & Restoration welcomed Sheila Swaim, office administrator, and Rachel Harenza, marketing representative, to its Janesville office.

Matthew L. Hunsaker, M.D. (5), director of the Rural Medical Education Program at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, was named campus dean for the Medical College of Wisconsin - Green Bay. Rebecca Smith joined Alpine Bank as credit officer.

First National Bank and Trust Company promoted Sean Gjestson (6) to credit analyst and Tari Book (7) to loan operations officer.

Nichole Dickerson (8) joined Rockford Mutual Insurance Company as agency specialist.

Dr. Philip Schalow, clinic director of 1st Step Chiropractic, S.C., was approved by Palmer College of Chiropractic as an extension faculty member. His interns learn about upper cervical spinal corrections using the NUCCA procedure (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association).

Fehr Graham, located at the Prairie Street Brewhouse, Rockford, expanded with the naming of Nathan Kass (9), branch manager of its Cedar Rapids, Iowa, office.

First Rockford Group, Inc., added Dawna Ullrich (10) to its leasing team for retail and office space.

Shaun Kehoe joined KMK Media Group as Web developer.

Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois hired Shawn McGuire (11) as controller and Tanzee Miller (12) as director of marketing.

Blackhawk Bank hired Dave Holterman (13) as vice president business banker for its Rock County market.

Employee/Community Recognitions, Awards

Rock Valley College Athletics Booster Club honored six retired coaches for its new Coaches Hall of Fame: Chuck Behrends, men’s basketball; Geraldine E. “Gerry” McDermott, initiator of women’s sports -- volleyball, softball, basketball; Norm Matzl, football, golf, swimming; Pete Lonsway, men’s tennis, football, defensive coordinator; Ed Delaporte III, baseball, and Heidi Hutchison, volleyball, women’s basketball.

Marci Meyer (14) celebrated five years with Rockford Mutual Insurance Company.

Sean E. O’Dell (15), P.E., manager of Baxter & Woodman, Inc.’s infrastructure department, graduated from the Illinois Public Service Institute. Derek J. Wold (16), P.E., BCEE, vice president of its board, earned his Board Certified Environmental Engineer (BCEE) credential in water supply and wastewater engineering from the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists.

Eve Whitaker (17), Spectrum Insurance Agency, Inc., earned her associate in general insurance (AINS) designation and completed her Ethical Guidelines for Insurance Professionals exam towards her associate in general insurance designation.

John P. O’Connor, financial advisor, CYRS Wealth Advisors LLC, received the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) designation from

17. Eve Whitaker

18. Bruce Graham

the Center for Fiduciary Studies™, the standards-setting body for fi360.

Of GENERAL INTEREST

John Burns, Ph.D., Rockford University, was named as the university’s first Global Faculty Fellow in the office of Global Affairs. Matthew Bork, Ph.D., presented an open seminar on the use of Ruthidium compounds in photochemistry. Jules Gleicher, Ph.D., chaired a panel, “The Politics of Nuclear Fears, Nuclear Cooperation, and National Security,” at the Illinois Political Science Association annual meeting.

Matthew Dalstrom, Ph.D., presented a paper, “Improving Prenatal Healthcare Usage in A Midwestern County,” at an Association of Applied and Clinical

Sociology meeting. Shawn Klein, Ph.D., was quoted from his blog, SportsEthicist.com, in the Oct. 14, 2013 edition of Sports Illustrated.

Caleb Lewis, Ph.D., presented a paper, “Endogenous Peer Effects: Behavioral Responses In The Classroom,” at the Illinois Economics Association annual meeting. Troy Skwor, Ph.D., presented a paper, “Prevalence of Antibiotic Resistant Aeromonas: A Comparison between the Rock River and the Rock River Water Reclamation District,” at the 86th annual Water Environment Federation Technical Exhibition and Conference. Lynn Stafford attended the Illinois Council for Exceptional Children annual conference. Karen Walker, Ed.D., wrote an article, “Scaffolded Silent Reading – Advocating a Policy for Adolescents’ Independent Reading,” which appeared in the November, 2013 issue of the International Reading Association Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy.

Bruce Graham (18), Spectrum Insurance Agency, Inc., attended the Hanover Insurance Group’s Million Dollar Dinner in Oak Brook (Ill.) in November.

NIU Quarterback Finalist for Heisman Northern Illinois University quarterback Jordan Lynch of Chicago traveled to New York City to be honored as one of six finalists for the 2013 Heisman Memorial Trophy. Lynch is the first Huskie player to be selected as a finalist for the trophy, which annually recognizes the most outstanding college football player in the country. The trophy was awarded on Dec. 14, during an ESPN national television broadcast to Jameis Winston of Florida State University. Lynch ranks fourth nationally in total offense (351.0 yards per game) and is second in both rushing yards (1,881) and points responsible for (276). He is only the fifth player in NCAA history to have 20 rushing and 20 passing touchdowns in a season and has broken the NIU single season record for touchdowns scored. For more information on NIU football and Huskie athletics, visit www.niuhuskies.com.

22

January 2014

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Business Briefs BUSINESS BRIEFS For the 19th time, Edward Jones ranked No. 1 in WealthManagement. com/REP. magazine’s annual survey of the nation’s six largest financial services firms. Edward Jones scored 9.5 out of 10 possible points for categories such as overall ethics (9.8) and public image (9.7).

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

Rockford Health System and Cadence Health announced their intent to combine to create a multiregional health system; offering access to health care at more than 40 locations including Central DuPage Hospital, Delnor Hospital, Rockford Memorial Hospital and Van Matre HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital.

Both will work in the following months to define the potential partnership, which remains subject to regulatory review and approval. Cadence provides health care to more than 1.1 million patients in Chicago’s western suburbs.

Williams-Manny sponsored and collected toys and donations for the annual Rockford Health System Ambassadors toy drive in December for children recuperating or receiving treatments.

Blackhawk Banker employees Caitlin Ludwig and Jan Barth-Huff, and Don VanSchelven, The Old Stone Church Pantry, Roscoe, take a break from sorting donations gathered for Thanksgiving.

Chemtool Incorporated and JA Frate held its annual Operation Support Our Troops event in Rockton; loading a trailer with non-perishable food items and toiletries in November to support the morale and wellbeing of American forces and their families, while deployed and after their return.

Blackhawk Bank and its clients, friends and employees donated $7,500 in monetary and food donations, including 120 Thanksgiving meals, split among Caritas (Beloit), St. Vincent DePaul (South Beloit), The Old Stone Church Food Pantry (Roscoe), His Glory Mission (Belvidere), Victory Outreach (Rockford) and Rock River Valley Pantry (Rockford).

V2 Marketing Communications promoted and facilitated a twoday fall workshop for the Chicago National Association of Dance Masters in Oak Brook (Ill). To promote EIGERlab as the region’s one-stop resource for business support and growth, it completed a new corporate website, brand collateral materials and tradeshow display. Rockford Symphony Orchestra hired the firm to provide graphic design, project management and website redevelopment.

Rockford Park District was recognized as an Illinois Distinguished Accredited Agency by the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) – the highest accreditation possible in Illinois.

Williams-Manny, Inc., elected to join the national Keystone Insurers Group, which does not impact its current ownership, but provides access to more products and services.

APAC Customer Services, Inc., Rockford, now is home to four, including two new, clients. Plans are to hire 400 new employees at www. apacjob.com. APAC also hosted two fundraisers with Goodwill barrels onsite for employees to donate clothing and small household items and a toy drive for the area pantry, Helping Hands.

Golden Apple Foundation and First Rockford Group, Inc., introduced

Rosecrance and the North Park Fire Department hosted Mental Health First Aid Training in December to help local firefighters and first responders identify and appropriately respond to people in crisis for mental health and substance use disorders. Training was funded by the Dr. Louis and Violet Rubin Fund of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois.

More than 84 percent of Christian Life Schools’ elementary teaching team were nominated for Golden Apple awards for the 2013-2014 school year.

Rockford Mutual Insurance Company joins the Illinois Department of Transportation’s Adopt-AHighway program and is awarded a one-mile stretch of road on Business 20 with sponsor panels between Shaw Road heading east; ending at Beaver Valley Road.

Investing in Excellence: Assistant Principal Development, funding one area assistant principal to attend the New and Aspiring School Leaders Program of the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Upon return, the recipient will conduct a workshop on what was learned with area administrators. theFranaGroup awarded more than $1.9 million in ACA funding to clients to establish four new Federally Qualified Health Centers in three states: two in Illinois, one in Indiana and one in Michigan.

Judson University is offering a new program, combining a bachelor of arts in pastoral leadership with a master of leadership in ministry, thanks to a $498,000 grant from the Kern Family Foundation. Both degrees can be earned in less than five years.

Feld Entertainment, a worldwide producer of live family entertainment, retained PR Etc., for the third year to oversee the publicity and promotion of its upcoming Monster Jam event on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1 at BMO Harris Bank Center in Rockford.

Crusader Community Health unveiled a signed, original piece of artwork for its West State Street Pediatric Center by celebrity artist and Rockford native Nicolosi, featuring Shari Lewis and “Lamb Chop.” The artwork was used for Lamb Chop greeting cards for St. Jude’s Research Hospital.

LDR Construction Services, Inc, LDR Cleaning & Restoration opened its second location at 977 Norwood Rd, Ste 110, in Janesville; led by David Roach, general manager and vice president.

The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois awarded $10,000 matching grants to Discovery Center Museum of Rockford, Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden and Natural Land Institute as part of the Carroll H. Starr Endowment Challenge Incentive Program. RAMP met its Carroll H. Starr Endowment Challenge, raising $150,000 over the past three years and received a $50,000 matching gift in December. RAMP’s overall goal is to raise $1 million for its endowment.

Eleven Lone Star Steakhouse locations in Illinois held a “Dine & Donate” fundraiser in December for victims of the state’s tornadoes in November; pledging 15 percent of net sales to the Central Illinois Chapter of the American Red Cross.

1,110 individuals in Boone and Winnebago counties passed their GED tests and achieved their high school equivalency diplomas in the last 17 months, thanks to the Northern Illinois Workforce Alliance’s and other agencies’ two-year initiative to increase GED attainment in the Rockford area.

It exceeded the goal for 1,000 individuals to pass by Dec. 31, 2013.

More than 30,000 family and friends came together for the inaugural Stroll on State, where downtown Rockford was transformed into a magical winter wonderland to kick off the holiday season, according to the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Comfort Keepers® of Rockford and northwestern Illinois received two awards from Home Care Pulse®: the 2013 “Best of Home Care Provider of Choice” and the 2013 “Best of Home care Employer of Choice.

Savant Capital Management acquired Paragon Advisors, a Naperville, Ill.-based registered investment advisory firm that manages $150 million in assets; bringing Savant’s current AUM to $3.7 billion.

OSF HealthCare announced the opening of OSF Medical Group – Rockton/Roscoe at 4686 E. Rockton Road, Ste. 102, which can accommodate up to three physicians and offers primary care, lab testing and digital imaging services. Katerina Hughes, M.D., and Syed Hassan, M.D., are the providers.

“A Decade of Rural Physician Workforce Outcomes for the Rockford Rural Medical Education (RMED) Program, University of Illinois,” coauthored by Drs. Martin MacDowell, Michael Glasser and Matthew Hunsaker, was published in the December 2013 issue of Academic Medicine. Findings from the study indicate that program graduates are more likely than non-RMED graduates to choose family medicine, select a primary care specialty and be practicing in a rural location.

Rockford Christian Schools sixth graders hosted the 27th annual Christmas Party for Rockford’s homeless at Grounds for Life Church.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

23

January 2014

Business Briefs The students performed a Christmas program, hosted a dinner and gave gifts of warm clothing and toiletries and toys for the children. The event was part of the school’s Live-2-Give service project the entire school participates in at Christmas.

Satori Pathway, dementia resources, educated EMT’s from OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center on interaction

with dementia patients in November.

Judson University celebrated its 70th commencement in December, with ceremonies for more than 120 graduates of the School of Art, Design and Architecture, the School of Leadership and Business, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the School of Education.

New Chamber Members MEMBERS

Bridge Ministries

Building Up and Uniting the Body of Christ for the Spiritual, Social and Physical Transformation of the City 407 S. Highland Ave., 61104 Gary Schwerin 815-985-8796 www.bridgeministries.com

Chastain & Associates, LLP Providing Transportation, Civil and Structural Engineering; Site Development; Construction Observation, and Surveying Service 345 Executive Pkwy., 61107 Paula Lawson 815-489-0050 www.hlcllp.com

Edward Jones Holly Muth Investments, Retirement Plans, Annunities, Life Insurance, Long Term Care Insurance 5308 Williams Dr. Roscoe, IL 61073 Holly Muth 815-623-3624 www.edwardjones.com

Edward Jones Pamela Cottrill Full Service Financial Advisor. Finding a Plan that Fits Your Needs for the Future, Education, Retirement and Estate Issues 1634 N. Alpine Road, 61107 Pamela Cottrill 815-227-4301 www.edwardjones.com

Edward Jones Scott Jeffrey Financial Advsior Dedicated to Serving the Needs of Individual Investors 210 N. Mulford Road, 61107 Scott Jeffrey 815-398-9092 www.edwardjones.com

Edward Jones Steve Danekas Financial Advisor Striving to Provide the Best Service, Advice and Council to Families and Business Owners 6957 Olde Creek Road, Ste. 3110, 61114 Steve Danekas 815-639-3918

January 2014 Member Anniversaries Thank you to the members who celebrate their anniversaries with the Rockford Chamber in January, 2014.

35-Year Member

10-Year Members

BMO Harris Bank Center

A-Sign Designs CliftonLarsonAllen LLP Marden Tire & Auto (Marden Distributors, Inc.) Northern Illinois Health Plan Pierce Distribution Services Company

25-Year Member Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful

20-Year Members Cliffbreakers Riverside Resort Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois

15-Year Members Martin Group Mulford Park Apartments Staff On Site, Inc. Terra Creek Apartments

Edward Jones Stewart Craig

To Help Individuals Achieve their Serious Long-Term Financial Goals

by Understanding their Needs and Implementing Tailored Solutions 1641 N. Alpine Road, Ste. 200, 61107 Stewart Craig 815-395-8456 www.edwardjones.com

Edward Jones Tara S. Harris Dedicated to Providing the Best Customer Service, Solid Advice and a Long Term Relationship, While Helping Families and Business Meet their Financial Goals 3636 E. State St., 61108 Tara Harris 815-395-0965 www.edwardjones.com

Edward Jones Will Geske Financial Advisor 4021 N. Mulford Road, 61111 Will Geske 815-637-6850 www.edwardjones.com

Envoy Mortgage Residential Mortgages 6957 Olde Creek Road, Ste. 2300, 61114 Connie Kelly 815-315-0677 www.envoymortgage.com

Fantasy Glassworks Custom Personalized Engraved Glassware 1048 Franklin Place, 61103 Julie MacKay 815-964-2080 www.fantasyglassworks.com

Rockford Rotary Club Rotary is an International Service Organization Locally Involved in Education, Leadership Training and Community Development Projects P.O. Box 1323, 61105 Judy Cooper 815-965-0607 www.rockfordrotary.org

5-Year Members Abbott Plastics and Supply Co. Alignment Rockford Artale Wine Co. Lee ’n Sons Plumbing, Inc. Rockford Metropolitan Agency for Planning (RMAP) Stronghold Camp & Retreat Center

Membership Renewals Thank you to members who renewed with the Rockford Chamber of Commerce in November, 2013.

1st Step Chiropractic, S.C. Michalsen Office Furniture Inc. AARP Illinois Mid-City Office Products Accu-Cut Inc Midwest Building Management Aerotek, Inc. Mike’s Auto Service Alpine Kiwanis Club Morgan Stanley — The PCMW Group Arc Design Resources, Inc. Mrs. Fisher’s, Inc. Aspen Counseling and NLT Title, LLC Consulting, LLC Northern Illinois Terrazzo Atlas Components & Tile Company Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP NorthPointe Terrace Benning Group LLC Parker Hannifin Corporation Business Advisors Group, LLC Parkside Warehouse, Inc. C & E Specialties, Inc. Pearson C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc. Rabine Paving Camelot World Travel Regional Office of Education CherryVale Mall Rock River Environmental Services Children’s Home & Aid Rockford Christian Schools Ciao Bella Ristorante Rockford Education Association Cicero & France, Barch & Rockford Molded Products Alexander, P.C. Rockford Toolcraft, Inc. City of Rockford — Human Services Rosie’s Birthday Club Department Rustic Motel Cloisters of Forest Hills Saavedra Gehlhausen Architects Crusader Community Health Satori Pathway on West State Street, Woodward Securitas Security Services USA, Inc. Campus for Community Health Care Special Power, Inc. Crusader Community Health Belvidere Stronghold Camp and Retreat Center Crusader Community Health theFranaGroup on Broadway, Uram Building Thrifty Boutique Resale Shoppe D & S Marine Inc. U.S. Cellular Erboe & Associates, CPAs United Realty, IL — Teri Watts, Farm & Fleet of Rockford Commercial Realtor Fehr Graham Green Home & Garden Village Forest City Diagnostic Imaging Village Profile Grandview Condominium Wanless-Brothers Moving and Association Storage Co. Keith Country Day School Warner Furniture Refinishing Landshark Solutions Winnebago County Sheriff’s Lee ’n Sons Plumbing, Inc. Department Lindstrom, Sorenson & Winnebago County State’s Associates, LLP Attorney’s Office Lone Star Steakhouse Winnebago County — River Bluff Lou Bachrodt AutoMall Nursing Home MembersAlliance Credit Union

Let your

Voice be heard!

We w ­ elcome submissions for The VOICE—deadline is the 15th of the month preceding p ­ ublication. 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

24

January 2014

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Illinois Chamber announces

2013 holiday survey results Every year, the Illinois Chamber of Commerce conducts a survey on how Illinois employers will handle paid holidays in the upcoming year.

Percentage of firms observing the following as paid holidays in 2013: New Year’s Day 2014 (Jan. 1). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98.7% Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (Jan. 21) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20.5% Lincoln’s Birthday (Feb. 12) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.6% President’s Day (Feb. 1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22.6%

Tax enacted to fund area’s sports tourism industry

Facility expansion plans soon to be realized

Washington’s Birthday (Feb. 22). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.6% Casimir Pulaski’s Birthday (March 4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . >1% Good Friday (April 18) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35.6% Memorial Day (May 27). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97.9% Independence Day (July 4). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98.1% Labor Day (Sept. 2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97.3% Columbus Day (Oct. 14). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13.0% Election Day (Nov. 5). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . >1% Veterans Day (Nov. 11). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15.1% Thanksgiving (Nov. 28). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97.3% “Black Friday” (Nov. 29) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73.4% Christmas Eve (Dec. 24). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49% Christmas Day (Dec. 25). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97.7% New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30.9% Employees Birthday. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2% Floating Holiday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6% Jewish Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4% Average number of paid holidays. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8.2 Average number of paid personal days. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.7 Source: ilchamber.org

As we reflect on 2013, there is no better time to recognize partners and collaborators throughout the region that helped advance the tourism industry this past year and set the stage for future growth.

I’ve written several times about the region’s Reclaiming First initiative, which is designed to increase the economic impacts of sports tourism.

The effort took a giant step forward on Nov. 26 when the Winnebago County Board voted unanimously to enact a countywide 2 percent hotel tax, beginning Jan. 1.

As competition grows and new facilities are constructed elsewhere, we know it is important to invest in our sports infrastructure if we are going to regain the business we’ve lost, retain the business we have, and grow the amateur sports tourism market.

The proceeds of the tax will provide a significant portion of the funds needed to expand and modernize Sportscore Two and the Indoor Sports Center (ISC), as well as fund a portion of the new Downtown Sports Complex.

As you might recall, to enact this hotel tax we first needed to be granted authority by the State Legislature. The bipartisan Reclaiming First bill stalled many times as it made its way through the House and Senate, ultimately being signed by Governor Quinn on Aug. 12.

After that, we needed approval from local municipalities to allow the county board to enact the tax. We set up the process this way so it would only move forward if there were broad support behind the plan.

Over the past few months, the elected councils in Loves Park, Machesney Park, South Beloit, Rockton, Cherry Valley and Rockford each voted to authorize the County to enact the tax increase.

The support of these municipalities, along with the affirmative vote from

John Groh Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

the Winnebago County Board, demonstrates that our regional community and its elected officials value tourism and the economic activity it generates, and for that, we are truly thankful.

Growing Amateur Sports Approximately 75 percent of the overnight visitor stays influenced by the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau are generated by sports tourism.

As competition grows and new facilities are constructed elsewhere, we know it is important to invest in our sports infrastructure if we are going to regain the business we’ve lost, retain the business we have, and grow the amateur sports tourism market.

The new downtown sports facility will allow the region to capture a greater share of the sports tourism market. The facility will be equipped to host basketball, volleyball, wrestling, dance and more. The upgrades to Sportscore Two and ISC will add additional lighting, turf fields and other improvements that will make these facilities shine amongst our competitive set.

We expect Reclaiming First to increase visitor spending by $16 million a year, create 400 jobs and generate $1.9 million in new tax revenue. This is in addition to the $326 million that visitor spent in Winnebago County in 2012, a number that has continued to trend upward since 2009.

Over the next few months, we will work to finalize the remaining funding sources needed to complete the projects. As that happens, our project team will work with architects and engineers to finalize plans for each of the facilities and then move in to construction phases, hopefully by mid-2014.

As we enter 2014, I eagerly look forward to 2015 when we open these new and renewed facilities to our local citizens and visitors. Stay tuned for additional updates along the way.

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

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

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

25

January 2014

IGNITE

Young Professionals

Job-hopping and the young professional Is it a career buster or not?

If you are 30 years old, with a strong academic record, and have a degree, then odds are you already have moved past your first professional job. On average, if you fall into the above stated categories, you left that first position within 28 months after starting, according to Monika Hamori and Burak Koyuncu in the Harvard Business Review. They stated that while employed with this first employer, almost 95 percent spent their time networking, revamping resumes, researching prospective employers, procuring an infield-related recruiter, and interviewing for a new job.

For previous generations, remaining with a company from entry-level through retirement was a badge of honor. Today’s young professional tends to take a jobhopping path to retirement. For many, their resumes and CVs will reflect various employment opportunities lasting different spans of time.

While the definition of job-hopping, the practice of moving from job to job, is rather self-explanatory, what might be surprising about the term is that it is not as new as many might think. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the first known use of the term was circa 1952, yet it most commonly is correlated with the current young professional workforce. The connotation is draped in negativity, but is job-hopping necessarily a bad thing for the young professional or a future employer?

As I write this article, I am gearing up to celebrate my seven-year anniversary with my organization. According to the current statistics, for a young professional I stayed in my organization an average five years longer than a typical young professional. Nearly 25 percent of young professionals expect to work at six or more different companies during their professional lives; whereas, only 28 percent plan to work at less than three employers during their careers, according to Larissa Faw, a contributor at www.forbes.com.

While I remained with my organization, many of my friends and colleagues are following the job-hopping route, some by choice, and others due to necessity.

With a country slowly recovering from a recession, young professionals ventured out into an unstable marketplace that led and may contribute to future instances of job-hopping.

Some of the current negative connotations surrounding job-hopping include the young professional’s lack of dedication, non-committal attitude towards their career, and zero career satisfaction, according to Olivia Adams at comerecommended.com.

A prospective employer possibly views the frequent job changes on a resume as a lack of dedication towards their mission and organization. If the young professional

Heather

dedicated a few Bradshaw-Arne years at various IGNITE companies, how likely will it be that he will stay with his organization? Another issue relates to the young professional’s ability to show he truly is committed. Does a frequent change mean that the young professional does not know what he wants out of his professional life? Will the prospective organization be able to offer the soughtafter job satisfaction?

While these might seem to be insurmountable hurdles to overcome, there are advantages to being a young professional job-hopper. This approach can lead to higher achievements in salary, job satisfaction and career advancement.

Staying with one organization may lead to a stagnant or minimal increase in year over year salary and position.

When moving to a new company, typically salary will be based on the previous one with an increase, Alina Dizik said in an article on www.careerbuilder.com. Making frequent moves not only allows for higher salary, but for the opportunity to advance one’s career. An item of importance to the young professional workforce is overall job satisfaction. A survey conducted in 2012 found that 88 percent of this sector of the workforce considered a “positive culture” an important or essential component to their dream job, according to Jeanne Meister, a contributor at www.forbes.com.

Job-hopping allows the young professional to seek out a variety of opportunities and experience different work cultures.

Organizations also can benefit from the job-hopping young professional.

This young professional comes to the prospective organization with a diverse background, a clearer idea of their overall career goals, and motivation. The young professional comes to the organization with a diverse work background. They worked with a variety of people in different environments, affording them the ability to work in different team combinations and work through conflicts, Adams wrote.

While job-hopping is not a new concept, an increased use of this tactic to advance a young professional’s career brings amplified attention to the topic. Though previously viewed in a negative light, there are advantages to the young professional and the prospective employer. These young professionals bring with them a hunger, drive, diverse work culture and background, and broad skillset.

Heather Bradshaw-Arne, J.D., MSNDR, is an associate professor, business and justice studies at Rasmussen College, Rockford, and a member of IGNITE. The views expressed are those of Bradshaw-Arne’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

26

January 2014

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

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

Saturday, January 11

One of my New Year’s resolutions is to be bolder in my professional life. Often we are overly concerned about the possibility of failure or rejection, instead of viewing ourselves in the middle, and success on one side of us and failure on the other side. It has helped me to view failure as what we need to go through to achieve success. So, that is the mindset I am choosing as I go forward into 2014.

Emily Hahn Austin, senior account executive, Meridian Promotions

Photo used with permission from the Rockford Register Star and rrstar.com.

New year’s Resolutions

To be more patient with myself.

Beatrice (Bea) Ricotta, publisher’s office, Rockford Register Star

To maintain relationships … after its initial success. I think the idea of a successful mortgage transaction does not just end at the closing table. I will continue to touch base with my clients through the years to come. Maintaining relationships with homeowners will build confidence, stability and both personal and business relationship growth.

Beth Phillips, mortgage originator, Alpine Bank, Belvidere

Speak less; listen more — two ears, one mouth! Or, “Seek first to understand, then to be understood.” [Steven Covey] Dr. Bob Griffin, executive director, Stateline Youth for Christ Education is an integral, key component of who you are! Your education, competencies, proficiencies and skills can increase your organization’s success, profitability and promote your organization through community awareness.

Kathleen Siedenburg, director of corporate relations, Judson University, Rockford May 2014 bring peace, love and continuing partnerships for the good of the Rockford community.

Sue Lewandowski, board president, Ethnic Heritage Museum

Do you have a New Year’s resolution to share?

Go to our Facebook page: facebook.com/RockfordChamberOfCommerce

And, have a Happy New Year!

Rockford Symphony Orchestra presents the concert, Legendary Loves, featuring violinist Lee Chin, 7:30 p.m., at Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford. For tickets call 815-965-0049 or visit www.rockford symphony.com.

Monday, January 13

Barbara Olson Center of Hope hosts Sensory Processing and the Effects on Learning and Behavior, a three-day workshop for professionals, teachers and parents of teens and adults with autism. Call Vickey Alexander at 815-964-9275, ext. 233.

Wednesday, January 15

Rockford Public Library presents Money Matters with Woodforest National Bank, 1 to 3 p.m., at the Rock River Branch program room, 3128 11th St. Learn the steps for setting financial goals. Registration required. Call 815-965-7606.

Rockford Public Library presents S&P Capital IQ NetAdvantage Presentation, 6 to 7:30 p.m., at the East Branch Friends of RPL community meeting room, 6685 E. State St. Dan Sovocool will discuss NetAdvantage, an online service at all library locations. Registration required. Call 815-965-7606.

Thursday, January 16

Rockford Public Library presents Finding Grants for a Non-Profit Organization, 2 to 3:30 p.m., at the Main Library second floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. Must be proficient using the Internet. Registration required.

Call 815-965-7606.

Saturday, January 18

Rockford Public Library presents Fresh and Local - Organics, 2 to 4 p.m., at the East Branch Friends of RPL community meeting room, 6685 E. State St. Meet local food expert for tips and tricks on organics. Registration required.

Call 815-965-7606.

Membership: 101 MEMBERSHIP

Did you know…

Being active in the local chamber of commerce is an effective business strategy. It communicates to consumers that a company uses good business practices, is reputable, cares about its customers, and is involved in the community.

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

When consumers know that a small business is a member of the chamber of commerce, 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.

TAX TIP For most chamber members your membership investment is deductible as an ordinary and necessary expense.

A portion of dues, however, is not deductible as an ordinary and necessary expense to the extent that we engage in state or federal lobbying. The non-deductible portion of dues is 10%.

Contact Diane Navickis for your personalized Chamber Check Up today!

815-316-4315 dnavickis@rockfordchamber.com

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

27

January 2014

EVENTS

Upcoming Chamber Events January, 2014 Tuesday, January 7

Ribbon Cutting, Keller Williams Realty Signature, 10 to 11 a.m., 7177 Crimson Ridge Dr., Rockford.

Wednesday, January 8

Breakfast Buzz, 7:30 to 9 a.m., Rock Valley College, Woodward Technology Center, 3301 N. Mulford Rd., Rockford. Robb Zbierski, Freedom Personal Development, presents Discovering Your Memory Power & Reading Smart. Train your memory and your mind. This program will demonstrate how to remember: names and faces, presentations (without notes), to do lists, key client information, and more. Sponsored by McGladrey LLP.

Thursday, January 9

IGNITE Lunch Outside the Box, noon to 1 p.m., 5050 E. State St., Rockford. Presenter is Jim Keeling, Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP. Jim Keeling maintains a business law practice.

Ambassador Lunch Meeting, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m., Lucha Cantina, Inc., 1641 N. Alpine Road, Ste. 212, Rockford.

Tuesday, January 28

Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford. Contact Thomas Conwell, MSI Reverse, tconwell@msiloans.biz.

Wednesday, January 29

Advantage Power Network Club, 11:45 a.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford.

Contact Teri Watts, United Commercial Realty, Teriw1214@gmail.com.

Advantage Club – Originals, 11:45 a.m., various locations. Contact Tiffany Staman, Carpenter’s Place, 815-964-4105, ext. 221, or tiffanys@ carpentersplace.org.

Tuesday, February 11

Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford. Contact Thomas Conwell, MSI Reverse, tconwell@msiloans.biz.

Wednesday, February 12

Friday, January 10

Tuesday, January 14

Advantage Club – Originals, 11:45 a.m., various locations. Contact Tiffany Staman, Carpenter’s Place, 815-964-4105, ext. 221, or tiffanys@ carpentersplace.org.

Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford. Contact Thomas Conwell, MSI Reverse, tconwell@msiloans.biz.

Wednesday, January 15

Advantage Power Network Club, 11:45 a.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford. Contact Teri Watts, United Commercial Realty, Teriw1214@ gmail.com.

Advantage Club – Originals, 11:45 a.m., various locations. Contact Tiffany Staman, Carpenter’s Place, 815-964-4105, ext. 221, or tiffanys@ carpentersplace.org.

Thursday, January Jan. 23 16 Thursday,

5:00 - 8:00 pmHours, Rockford Business After Giovanni’s MELD, 5 to 7 p.m., Giovanni’s, Inc., 610 N. Bell School Rd., Rockford 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford.

Rockford Chamber of Commerce

Annual Dinner

Learn about the chamber’s successes and celebrate the 2014 Citizen of the Year.

Keynote speaker is Haydn Shaw, leading expert/author on generational differences, on “Sticking Points: How to Get the 4 Generations Working Together in the 12 Places They Come Apart.”

Sponsors: OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center (presenting), WilliamsMcCarthy LLP and First National Bank and Trust Co. (gold), AT&T and Leading Lawyers (silver), The Alliance and McGladrey LLP (bronze), Riverside Community Bank (calendar) Charles Schwab (Citizen of the Year), Williams-Manny (wine).

Alpine Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Riverside Community Bank . . . . . . . . 11

Brian Thomas Photography. . . . . . . . 10

Rockford Bank & Trust. . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Broadmoor Agency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Charles Schwab. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Colorwave. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 First National Bank and Trust Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Rockford Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18, 25, 28 Rockford Health System. . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Rockford University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Heinzeroth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Sikich. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

IMEC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Stillman Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

KMK Media Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Thayer Lighting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

McGladrey LLP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 MELD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Mendelssohn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

V2 Marketing Communications . . . . . 18 Van Galder Bus Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Weinberg & Co.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 WIPFLi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

FEBRuary, 2014

Advantage Power Network Club, 11:45 a.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford.

Contact Teri Watts, United Commercial Realty, Teriw1214@gmail.com.

Government Affairs Council, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St. Registration required.

Contact Heidi Garner, 815-316-4312.

ADVERTISERS Advertisers Index

Friday, February 14

Government Affairs Council, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St. Registration required.

Contact Heidi Garner, 815-316-4312.

Thursday, Feb. 20 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

Small Business Luncheon Matt Anderson, founder and president of the Referral Authority will speak on how to get more and better referrals.

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

Tuesday, February 25

Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford.

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

Wednesday, February 26

Advantage Power Network Club, 11:45 a.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford.

Contact Teri Watts, United Commercial Realty, Teriw1214@gmail.com.

Advantage Club – Originals, 11:45 a.m., various locations.

Contact Tiffany Staman, Carpenter’s Place, 815-964-4105, ext. 221, or tiffanys@carpentersplace.org.

Chamber Staff / Call 815-987-8100.............................................. Direct Line 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 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, Member Relations Manager................................ 815-316-4315 Mary Ann Suprenant, Membership Development Manager.............. 815-316-4336 Joan Sundvall, Membership Contact Coordinator......................... 815-316-4320

Chamber Board of Directors & Officers Executive Committee

Directors

Chairman of the Board Richard Walsh SwedishAmerican Health System Chairman Elect Patti Thayer Thayer Lighting, Inc. 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.

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

Jan Bowman TLC Construction

Amy Ott Chicago Rockford International Airport

Paul Callighan ComEd, An Exelon Company

Mark Peterson CBL Associates Cherry Vale

Joe Castrogiovanni Giovanni’s, Inc.

Michele Petrie BMO Harris Bank

Dr. Rena Cotsones Northern Illinois University

Laura Pigatti Williamson Rockford Park District

Darlene Furst Furst Staffing Jeff Hultman Riverside Community Bank Michael F. Iasparro Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP

Timothy Rollins WilliamsMcCarthy Henry Seybold Rockford Health System Pat Shaw McGladrey LLP

Somchan Thatsanaphon K-I Machine Tool & Production Inc. Josh Trust Rockford Register Star Tim White UTC Aerospace Systems Jennifer Wood CPA

Ex-Officio Directors Don Thayer Rockford Area Economic Development Council Einar K. Forsman President & CEO, Rockford Chamber of Commerce John Groh Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

February 2014 Special Sections:

Educational Services Technology/Innovations For information on advertising, call 815 987-8100