January Voice 2024

the January 2024 | Volume 37 | No. 1

of the greater rockford business community

ROCKFORD AREA CASE MANAGEMENT INITIATIVE DEANNA MERSHON

ROLE OF DIGITAL AND SOCIAL ADVERTISING JAY GRAHAM

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Finding your company’s voice Insights from four Rockford business leaders

By Andrew Wright, Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce Laura Bennett, Trekk Design, Inc. Trekk is a “tech-driven creative services agency obsessed with exploration.” It’s been a part of the Rockford business community since 1995 when website development was still an emerging technology. While tech has changed over the years, one simple truth has not—companies must tell authentic stories to stay connected with their customers.

“Too often, if an economy or company is struggling, we see people cutting marketing departments.” said Laura Bennett, president of Trekk. “Cutting a marketing budget may help the bottom line in the short term, but in the long term, you undercut the investment you’ve already put in. You lose the long-term equity you’ve built into your brand and messaging.”

Trekk helps clients tell their stories in a cluttered media marketplace. “Authenticity is essential. Most companies don’t know what their authentic voice is, so we work with them to agree on the voice and the message of their company. Creating authenticity comes from putting that on paper and communicating that message in everything you do,” Bennett said.

When companies communicate their values and their voice internally, customers take notice.

“Consistency is very important. We’ll do a brand workshop with a client and develop a brand model and message map – a document that clients can distribute to every employee that interacts with customers, from sales to field technicians to customer service. It’s important that they all understand the voice of the company,” Bennett said.

But refining your company’s voice isn’t just about online and in person interactions, according to Bennett, print marketing is growing in popularity. “Print is making a huge comeback because of all the ways you can be more tactile with the piece itself. There’s steadier growth in print now than in the last 10 years.”

At its core, an investment in professional marketing is about extending the lifetime value of a customer.

“The most expensive part of marketing is acquiring a new customer. When you invest in marketing, you build equity in your customers, using a consistent plan to nurture and retain your customers. If you don’t nurture your customers on an ongoing basis, you run the risk of losing them and having to start over,” Bennett said. (continued on page 8)

Enhanced member benefits in 2024 Internal changes lead to external results

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Join the Chamber on Social Media

The Voice is online at rockfordchamber.com

Last year was a catalyst for change for the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce. On the heels of our recent merger with the Rockford Area Economic Development Council and Greater Rockford Growth Partnership, the team and board of the GRCC has been hard work planning and implementing changes that drive efficiency, focus on our core mission and deliver value.

While many of these changes happened internally, 2024 will showcase external changes as well. Most prominent is likely our new investment structure. In Q1, we will begin introducing our tiered dues structure to members, with a full roll-out expected in early Q2. So what are tiered dues, and what can our members expect?

Great questions!

Traditionally, our rates were based on a member’s industry type (non-profit, school, hotel, business, etc.) and the number of full-time equivalent employees they had. Additional benefits, such as web

packages, sponsorships and advertising opportunities, were available a la carte.

This model is called “fair-share” and is used by many chambers throughout the country.

Nationally, many chambers, however, are transitioning to a tiered dues structure that allows for chambers of all sizes to invest in the organization efficiently in ways that meet their individual needs while supporting the chamber’s mission and work.

This shift to tiered dues allows organizations to invest with the organization in a package format – eliminating multiple checks and solicitations for advertising and sponsorships.

While additional opportunities will certainly be available throughout the year, the option to strategically invest at once streamlines the process for all those involved while helping the member organization (continued on page 12

A NEW WAY TO PROVIDE FEEDBACK R1 is launching Engage R1, an online engagement platform to make public input more convenient and inclusive. The site provides information on all active projects at R1 and offers a variety of activities for individuals to share their input, ensuring R1 plans reflect the public’s needs. This platform offers an additional way to reach the public and does not replace in-person outreach events.

Once a project is launched, R1 will notify the public through the R1 website, social media and press releases. All current plans will be listed on the Engage R1 home page; just click on the topic of choice, view information on the project, and complete available engagement activities.

No registration or personal information is required to participate. To follow specific projects, create an account to receive notifications when updates or additional opportunities for input are available.

The platform increases transparency between R1 and the public. Visitors can view all open, ongoing and past projects; follow a timeline of key milestones in the planning process; and see real-time results of specific project feedback.

Engage R1 is now live at www. r1planning.org.

The City of Rockford’s Health and Human Services Department announced a health literacy micro-grant for communitybased organizations dedicated to promoting health literacy and COVID-19 adoption within the city. These micro-grants are designed to support initiatives that promote better understanding of health information and empower residents to make informed decisions about their well-being, including accessing the updated COVID-19 vaccine.

Application period: December 11, 2023 - January 8, 2024 Grant amount: $7,500 - $10,000 Eligibility: Open to active, community-based organizations in Rockford that serve zip codes 61101, 61102, and/or 61104, and that have previously attended the Rockford Ready Health Literacy and Cultural Humility Trainings.

Focus areas: Health Literacy promotion and COVID-19 vaccination promotion.

Learn more at rockfordready.org.

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

January 2024

PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE

A message from a fancy coffee machine CAITLIN PUSATERI president, Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce

The signals we unintentionally send to employees and clients

I recently found myself in a specialist office for some follow-up medical tests after a relatively routine exam. I hurried into the specialist’s office, anxious to get out of the chill December wind and was immediately met with a very intentional, albeit stereotypical, environment. From the color choice to the word art on the walls, the intended audience was clear.

While I sat nervously waiting for my name to be called, I glanced over and saw it: a fancy coffee machine. Granted, a fancy coffee machine that was tragically out of order, but a fancy coffee machine none the less.

I was called back and began my procedure – no time for coffee even if the machine had been working. During the procedure, my mind wandered, anxious to avoid what I was enduring and focus my attention elsewhere. I came back to that fancy coffee machine. In what other doctor’s office or medical clinic had I seen a machine like that? Then it

dawned on me—the waiting room in the children’s hospital.

Between my two kids, I’ve sat in the waiting room at the children’s hospital nine times over the past (almost) five years. My kids are OK and overall healthy, and the surgeries were all outpatient. But the anxiety and gravity of what my kids were going through was never lost on me.

Each surgery brought its own set of minimal risks, but risks none the less.

And each time, my nerves were calmed, slightly, by coffee from the fancy coffee machine in the lobby. In a weird way, I looked forward to that cup of coffee. It was kind of fun to push the buttons (it had a mocha option, which clearly, I was going to choose). I found comfort in the routine of grabbing my pager from the surgery desk, getting a cup of coffee and sitting with my husband while we waited.

The mundane actions lessened the gravity of what we were waiting on. And

the coffee was, well, fine at best but better than what was served in the cafeteria.

As the nurse in my current procedure gave me a new direction, I was jostled back to where I was. I was no longer in the waiting room at the children’s hospital but a patient in a clinic with a fancy coffee machine. Suddenly, I realized that there was gravity to the appointment I was in.

The fancy coffee machine told me so.

You see, at my well visits, there is no coffee machine. At my dentist appointment, my routine eye checks, or my kids’ pediatrician’s office, no caffeine is included. Fancy coffee machines, at least in the medical world, are reserved for situations where things could go wrong. Where bad news could be delivered. Where your situation could suddenly be life-altering.

At the time of writing, I’m waiting for another procedure and then waiting for results. By the time this prints, I will have my results, and either I will be in more clinic rooms with fancy coffee machines or on my own in the Starbucks line not thinking one bit about those waiting rooms and the mocha buttons. I’m hoping it’s the latter, but time will tell.

Either way, the fancy coffee machine taught me something: sometimes we build environments that deliver unintentional messages. For me, fancy coffee machines equate to possible bad medical news. I don’t think the person in charge of interior design or patient

experience really meant anything by the caffeine boost. It’s probably seen as a nicety for people while they wait and not a whole lot more. But for me, it tells me I should be nervous. That something might be wrong. That things could change. That recovery may be necessary.

What messages are you sending to your clients or employees unintentionally?

Do you only call employees when you have bad news vs. sending a quick congratulatory text? Do you send invoices in red envelopes vs. newsletters or important client information in plain white? Do you only send thank you gifts right before making a big ask? You may be unintentionally creating negative feelings that are easy to avoid.

It’s important to remember that all our brands—personal or organizational— are comprised of everything we do, intentionally and unintentionally. And both are important. The more often they match and send signals that align with our values and mission, the stronger our brand. But perhaps you have a fancy coffee machine in your own waiting room and the client absentmindedly stirring her powder white creamer while she waits for you to call her name has already created a story that doesn’t exactly have a happy ending. All because the fancy coffee machine, without any words at all, told her it was time to be nervous.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

GUEST COLUMNIST

Rockford Area Case Management Initiative DEANNA MERSHON, Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence

Empowering case managers and improving referrals

The Rockford Area Case Management Initiative (RACMI) started six years ago to shift the case management model to a collaborative, empowermentfocused, outcomes-based model of case management, rather than a program- and eligibility-focused model or a “do for not with” model of case management. The goal of RACMI is to strengthen the field of case management, build a common language and facilitate effective referrals.

To date, over 1300 case managers from nearly 270 organizations have been trained and/or attended Community of Practice (COP) events over the past few years.

The Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence (NICNE) facilitates the RACMI in deep partnership with Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois, Workforce Connections, RAMP and several other area organizations. RACMI training and programs are currently presented with financial support from

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January 2024

the Winnebago County Community Mental Health Board (WCCMHB).

The WCCMHB supports community mental health and substance use services in Winnebago County through a robust community support system framework.

WCCMHB’s support and investment enables the RACMI to deliver critical training and education for human services, mental health and substance abuse case managers as they coordinate essential services for adults and children in the community. Case managers are often the first partner for those seeking services or support in their time of need.

Through the WCCMHB’s strategic planning situational analysis, services were identified as uncoordinated and difficult to find. The RACMI Community of Practice responds to that need, helping case managers learn about, coordinate and improve access to available services.

It helps case managers learn about services and resources available in the

community and how to access them.

Case managers learn the intricacies of eligibility, share best practices, build trust, and professionalize the field of case management, enhancing the overall referral system.

As the new program coordinator of the RACMI, my role is to ensure access to quality training for all case managers that is person-centered, outcome-based and equity-focused. I will coordinate monthly Community of Practice sessions to educate case managers on the various services available within the community and build a network of providers aware of eligibility requirements and how to access resources for the people they are called to serve.

Recent survey results revealed that the greatest challenges to collaboration are finding the right partners and finding time to devote to collaboration. I will be reaching out to additional providers of mental health and substance abuse services to broaden engagement within the RACMI and link individuals and organizations to each other for enhanced access and understanding.

NICNE also facilitates the Youth Mental Health System of Care (www. ymhsoc.org), the collaborative initiative of multiple mental health and human services providers leading the community-wide implementation of IRIS, developed by the University of Kansas Center for Public Partnerships

and Research. IRIS is a web-based community referral system that helps organizations

connect

the

families

they serve to the right resources in their community. IRIS is already in use in nearly two dozen communities in Illinois. It will complement the RACMI Community of Practice by providing a critical tool to make, receive, track and respond to referrals. This will be incredibly valuable in expediting the referral process within and between service providers, improving systems and tracking critical population-level data to move human services from a transactional model into one focused on transformational outcomes to ensure individuals served get the support they need to improve the trajectory of their lives.

Learn more about the RACMI and NICNE (www.niu.edu/nicne/) and IRIS (www.ymhsoc.org/iris). For questions contact Deanna at dmershon@niu.edu.

Deanna Mershon is the Rockford area case management program coordinator at the Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence.

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

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

January 2024

GUEST COLUMNIST

Educational options strengthen our community CHARO CHANEY and DR. ANNIE BADDOO, co-heads of Keith Country Day School

Keith Experiential Expo and Open House January 21

National School Choice Week (Jan. 22-28) challenges parents, teachers and school administrators, as well as business leaders, to consider the kind of education we want the children in our region to experience.

We know there’s more to education than teaching students what they need to know to pass standardized tests. Businesses, and our community as a whole, need future leaders, citizens and employees who are effective communicators, strong problem-solvers, capable of working independently and in teams, flexible and adaptable. As important, we want students to understand the importance of being actively engaged in making our community better by giving their time and treasure.

If this sounds like a tall order, it is.

Tomorrow’s leaders will compete in a global market, so an entrepreneurial attitude is necessary. They’ll need to identify and advance ideas while managing unknowns, like emerging technologies, legislation, regulation and globalization. Developing thoughtful, self-starting risk-takers will be to our nation’s competitive advantage.

At Keith, we have more than 50 sports, clubs and organizations in which our students participate. Our students thrive in academic competition teams, developing their confidence and gaining lifelong friendships.

With an average class size of 1220 students, our teachers can develop personal relationships with students and help them identify individual strengths, skills and needs. Our teachers have the freedom to promote creative thinking and introduce students to exciting and challenging subjects, including art, music, drama, foreign languages, global and environmental studies, and technology.

Socially, many children find it easier to settle into a smaller school. Classmates quickly become friends, and the student body forms a family. We have a very high retention rate for maintaining our students year over year. And while some of our students have been together since 3-year-old preschool, new students find it just as easy to adapt and fit in when they join the school later. Seeing the same group of friends in every class, year after year, helps forge bonds that give students the comfort to embrace their unique selves and truly excel.

And we take our students’ and staff ’s mental well-being seriously, investing in an on-site licensed clinical therapist who works with groups and individuals to

provide them the support they need in this ever-changing world.

By no means is a smaller school a compromise on education or experience.

Last year, Keith School once again earned an A+ rating by Niche (an independent agency which combines rigorous analysis with parent, student, and community reviews), making it the top private school in the Rockford region and among the best in Illinois. And for the second consecutive year, we were named the Best Private School in the region by Rockford Register Star’s What Rocks recognition.

Our teachers take great pride in motivating students to work beyond their perceived limits. Most students would say we have high standards, and we expect a lot from them. They would also tell you Keith is a nurturing environment with a healthy learning atmosphere.

But what really makes our school special is the closeness of our Keith family. We are a collection of teachers and students, colleagues and friends, who respect each other and enjoy being together in and out of the classroom.

Each year at graduation, our seniors tell us how much they value the friendships they’ve formed with each other and the relationships they’ve built with their teachers.

Teaching students to be curious, solve problems, draw conclusions and share ideas helps develop the soft skills they’ll need for the next phase of life, whatever that may be. Our educational systems must ensure students have the foundation skills they need to be valuable and relevant employees, knowing many of the occupations they’ll pursue don’t even exist today.

We encourage you to learn more about Keith Country Day School at our Interactive Expo and Open House on Sunday, Jan. 21, from 1-3 p.m. Our teachers, staff and current students will be on hand to help you explore Keith through hands-on experiences.

Charo Chaney and Dr. Annie Baddoo colead Keith Country Day School. Chaney oversees grades 6-12, and Baddoo oversees preK-3 through 5th grade. Together they address the needs of all students and faculty at the school to ensure everyone’s ongoing success.

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

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

January 2024

Making schoolhouses rock RPS 205 continues to transform facilities

By Michael Phillips, COO, RPS 205 Rockford Public Schools (RPS 205) has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade, marked by strategic investments in its facilities. With the completion of the Ten-Year Facilities Master Plan in 2022, RPS has significantly improved the quality of its educational infrastructure. Here are the key milestones we’ve achieved and insights into the future direction of RPS facilities planning.

Ten-Year Facilities Master Plan 2012-2022 In 2011, the RPS 205 Board of Education initiated a comprehensive physical assessment of its educational facilities, which included four high schools, seven middle schools, 31 elementary schools, three early childhood centers and one adult education building.

The average age of these buildings at that time was 68 years, with construction dates ranging from 1907 to 1999.

In August 2012, the board approved a resolution to hold a referendum on the November 2012 ballot. The referendum sought to issue general obligation bonds to fund RPS 205 facilities improvements.

In spring 2013, renovations and construction began as part of the TenYear Facilities Master Plan.

A significant milestone came in November 2014 when 74% of voters approved a referendum to acquire sites and build more schools. This approval paved the way for the construction of new schools using the proceeds of a $139 million bond issuance, which voters approved in 2012.

Over the years, RPS broke ground on several new schools. In winter 2016, Cherry Valley Elementary School— an $18.3 million, 86,000 sq. ft. school for K-5 students—broke ground.

Similarly, in fall 2017, Constance Lane Elementary School—a $19.8 million, 86,000 sq. ft. school for K-5 students— began construction. These new schools symbolize RPS’s commitment to providing modern and favorable learning environments for its students.

The completion of the Ten-Year Facilities Master Plan in August 2022 marked a significant milestone for RPS. The renovations, construction and updates reduced the average age of RPS facilities to 50 years. These updated buildings now offer improved infrastructure and enhanced learning spaces for students and educators alike.

ESSER-II and ARP ESSER HVAC upgrades In 2021, RPS embarked on a $160 million HVAC upgrade project focused on improving air quality and ensuring 100% air-conditioned classroom space in 31 schools. These crucial upgrades are funded by the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Plan-II and the

American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary Relief Plan.

Work on the HVAC upgrades began in the summer of 2022 and is scheduled to be completed by September 2024. As a result of these efforts, several schools have already experienced the benefits of air conditioning since the fall of 2023, including East High School, Fairview Early Childhood, Flinn Middle School, IB at Conklin, Johnson Elementary School, Lathrop Elementary School, Lincoln Middle School, Nashold Early Childhood, Riverdahl Elementary School, Spring Creek Elementary School, Washington Elementary School and West Middle School.

Five-Year Facilities Master Plan Looking ahead, RPS 205 has initiated a new five-year facilities master plan.

In July 2023, the Board of Education appointed DLR Group from Chicago as the planning consultant for this important undertaking. The planning process was introduced to the community through a community kick-off meeting held at West Middle School in September 2023.

To ensure the inclusivity of all stakeholders, RPS hosted four planning workshops in October 2023. These workshops covered areas such as early childhood/elementary teacher input, secondary teacher input, a student workshop, and a session for internal and external stakeholders discussing values.

The Steering Committee, comprising RPS students, teachers, administrators, and community members, held its first meeting in October. This committee plays a vital role in assisting the district in developing and advising on the Longrange Facility Plan. Their tasks include reviewing and discussing data, identifying issues and opportunities, refining guiding principles, goals and recommendations, and developing a prioritized list of recommended capital projects.

Early themes that have emerged from the planning process include the need for specialty centers such as a College and Career Education Center and a Newcomer Center. Other priorities include upgrading early childhood centers, expanding support services space, enhancing arts education, improving athletic and physical education spaces, and focusing on safety, security, equitable investment, and inclusive learning environments.

Rockford Public Schools continues to invest and transform our facilities to meet the ever-changing needs of our students and community.

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

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SPECIAL SECTION

Marketing & Communicaton

Four content marketing strategies

GUEST COLUMNIST

Why AI cannot replace your marketing team DEVIN MAINVILLE, communication specialist, KMK Media

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

January 2024

How small businesses can attract and engage customers

By Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce As a small business owner, you already

(At least not entirely)

know the importance of marketing for business growth. Content marketing is an excellent strategy to connect

• Personalization. AI algorithms

with your target audience and expand

can crunch customer data to serve

your reach. However, creating all the

hyper-targeted content catered to each

necessary content can be overwhelming.

customer.

Here are four content marketing tips to

• Market research. AI conducts sentiment

analysis

on

mountains

of social data to uncover the latest consumer trends.

• Ad testing. AI rapidly tests multiple ad

variants

to

determine

optimal

messaging and images.

• Lead scoring. AI analyzes behavior data to identify and qualify high-value prospects.

AI and the murky waters of copyright As AI tools become increasingly adept at generating content, questions arise regarding the ownership and originality Everywhere you turn there’s news about artificial intelligence (AI) taking over another aspect of daily life. From turning on your lights to finding you the perfect end table, AI can cut down on the endless drudgery of our modern existence. But what about when it comes to the creative stuff we do as marketers?

AI has come a long way in replicating certain creative tasks, like generating text, images, and even music. But while AI promises enhanced efficiency, it lacks the unique human touch essential to many creative endeavors.

How human creativity is superior to AI Human creativity springs from our life experiences, personalities, emotions and the ability to make unexpected connections. When a writer conjures up a metaphor that tugs at your heartstrings or an artist depicts a scene that vividly conveys an emotion, that’s human creative genius at play.

AI systems today, while increasingly sophisticated, lack lived experiences that allow humans to infuse art with empathy, meaning and wisdom. Their outputs, while often technically sound, tend to be generic and sterile. There’s also a real risk of producing inaccurate or contextually inappropriate content, jeopardizing brand consistency and potentially damaging your reputation.

AI’s benefits for marketing

of the output. Here are two potential scenarios: 1. The computer-generated work cannot be copyrighted and therefore enters the public domain immediately after creation.

2. The computer-generated content is considered a derivative work stemming

enhance your online presence, attract new

customers

and

achieve

your

business goals.

Define your audience To develop a successful content marketing strategy, start by clearly identifying

your

target

audience.

Understanding the needs, challenges and aspirations of your ideal customers will enable you to create content that resonates with them. Connect with your staff, your client base and your stakeholders to really understand who your audience is and is not.

After considering your customers’ problems and how your products solve them, categorize your ideas into pillar content. For instance, if you have a destination business selling handmade ice cream, your content can revolve around family, natural ingredients and original flavors. Similarly, for financial consulting, your pillar content can include retirement,

from the training AI was exposed to. In

college savings and eliminating debt.

this case, copyright would fall to whoever

Create value-based content

owns the AI tool or whoever owns the dataset the AI was trained on.

If you want to use the content in your own marketing materials, you might not actually have the right to do so. There are no clear answers yet to these issues.

As AI becomes an integral part of many organizations’ marketing efforts, all industries must navigate the delicate balance between leveraging AI’s benefits and preserving the unique human touch.

Once you’ve defined your audience, it’s time to create valuable content that will engage, educate and even entertain.

Your content should provide solutions to your customers’ problems and help them achieve their goals. Value-based content might be an article, blog, social media post or video. Make sure your creativity matches your chosen pillar content and consider batching your work rather than waiting for inspiration to strike.

AI shines in data driven areas. But the

Use your position as a member

onus remains on marketing professionals

of the Greater Rockford Chamber of

to ensure that the content is legal to use

Commerce (GRCC) to help expand your

and that the essence of human creativity

reach by writing a non-advertorial article

and interpretation is not lost. AI can take

(600-700 words) for The Voice that

on our menial tasks, but it can never take

helps your clients and other chamber

our originality!

members solve problems. Share tips and tricks, informative updates or best

Devin Mainville is a communication

practices. Your article might address a

specialist with KMK Media. A graduate of

timely business topic or it might align

Columbia College Chicago with a degree

with a special topic or section featured

in television writing and production, she

in that month’s newsletter. Showcasing

brings her knack for storytelling to each

your expertise in The Voice promotes

client’s personal brand.

your organization and positions you as a thought-leader in our regional business

The views expressed are those of Mainville

community – all for no cost.

Although it lacks the human touch,

and do not necessarily represent those

After publication, you can repurpose

AI can provide critical marketing help in

of the Greater Rockford Chamber of

and expand your article as a blog for our

a number of ways:

Commerce.

website to increase readership. Promote

your published work on social media, in your e-newsletter and on your website by linking to our blog to be sure that your content is reaching your desired audience. It takes a little bit of time and effort, but the ROI can be excellent.

Speaking of ROI…

Integrate a lead magnet Your hard work deserves a reward.

When it comes to content marketing, a next step is to offer more free content or a lead magnet. A lead magnet is a complimentary piece of content or promotional offer that’s given in exchange for someone’s email address.

When done right, your lead magnet kicks off your sales funnel. It’s common for a series of three to five automated emails to accompany your lead magnet and build toward a paid offer.

If you’re not comfortable with a true lead magnet or don’t have the technology to support such efforts, remember to include a call to action (CTA). Customize your CTA to ensure you’re able to identify the lead source when the phone call or email is received.

Offer a chamber-specific discount, a fun question requiring people to email you for the answer, or an invitation to a specific web landing page through a bitly-style link.

Adjust your strategy based on real results Measuring the success of your content marketing efforts is crucial for understanding the impact and effectiveness of your strategies. By tracking key metrics such as website traffic, engagement rates, conversion rates and customer feedback, you can gain valuable insights into the performance of your content. Take time to measure, analyze and adapt your content marketing efforts to achieve greater success in reaching and engaging your audience.

The takeaway Content marketing can be a powerful tool for small businesses to attract new customers and build brand awareness. By defining your audience, creating valuable content, optimizing your email marketing and measuring your success, you can develop a strategy that works for your business. As a valued GRCC member, you have resources at your fingertips to help you broadcast your message to the business community at little to no cost. Remember that content marketing is a long-term investment, and it takes time to see results. But with consistency and a solid plan, you can achieve your marketing goals and grow your business.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

January 2024

Marketing & Communicaton

SPECIAL SECTION

7

Seven marketing trends for 2024 What every small business needs to know

By Lauren Kubiak , contributor, Co- By U.S. Chamber of Commerce

In recent years, small businesses have significantly adapted their marketing strategies to keep pace with emerging technology. According to a recent Taradel marketing report, 94% of small businesses are planning to increase their marketing spend in 2024.

But what trends will small businesses spend these funds on? Here are seven ways the marketing industry is shifting in the new year and what small businesses are focusing on.

Generative AI-based marketing Small business owners should adapt their content creation, posting methods and platforms due to search generative experience (SGE), which is marking a change in search engine optimization (SEO) dynamics.

“Google’s new SGE changes the SEO landscape, and for small business owners, this change means that they will have to change the way their marketing content is created, how it’s posted and where it’s posted,” said Stefan Campbell, owner of The Small Business Blog.

“SGE will be mostly AI-based, so small businesses may find that, since SGE will collect simple keywords and content and collate when a user performs a search, they have a better chance of making it to the top of Google when they present simpler information. Anything more complicated may not be located, grabbed and featured in snippets.”

Minimalist marketing campaigns Embracing simplicity when creating ads will help small businesses stand out at a time when most companies are creating extravagant ads, according to Alex Mastin, CEO and founder of Home Grounds. In a minimalist approach to marketing, a coherent design and consistency across small details become crucial for audience engagement.

“You can still get your message across with a simple marketing approach — something that spreads your business’s message without being too overwhelming or overstimulating,” Mastin told CO—. “When you’re designing new content, I recommend choosing a color scheme and sticking to it. Same with a font, because when you’re using a minimalistic style, cohesiveness, connection and small details will make all the difference to your audience.”

Personalized, interactive content Another key trend in the upcoming year will be personalized, interactive content, which will build stronger connections between consumers and the

brand.

“In 2024, the most impactful marketing trend for small businesses is personalized and interactive content. Engaging consumers through tailored experiences fosters a sense of connection,” said Sameera Sullivan, CEO of Sameera Sullivan Matchmakers. “As the small business landscape evolves, the integration of virtual and augmented reality will revolutionize customer engagement, creating immersive brand interactions.”

Integrated online and offline marketing efforts Small businesses will benefit from an omnichannel approach in 2024 by integrating online and offline marketing efforts for a seamless customer experience.

“If you’re running a Facebook ad campaign, ensure it’s aligned with your in-store promotions or email marketing,” said Sergey Solonenko, founder and CMO of Algocentric Digital Consultancy. “Use tools like Google Analytics and Facebook Insights to track customer interactions across different channels, and tailor your marketing messages accordingly. This approach is crucial, especially with the evolving email marketing landscape.”

Social listening Because of how much time consumers spend on social media, social listening and selling are becoming more popular in the marketing sphere.

“Social media is highly emotive, so there is more context on the source of ideas, complaints, purchase behavior and macro/micro trends,” said Paige ArnofFenn, founder and CEO of Mavens & Moguls. “Using social listening, you can isolate the data you care about and watch for short-term indicators around consumer research to help identify actionable opportunities early.”

Animation marketing While visual elements like images and video have been trending for years now, Ray Pierce, CEO and founder of Zippycashforcars, believes animated elements will become more popular in 2024.

“By animation, I mean that whenever you visit the website, the animations will interact with you through guides and tips, creating awareness about the brand, helping you sign up and so on,” he said.

“This way, the customer gets engaged, and the company will get better retention and customer engagement. This can be done through tools and software, and there are tons of companies that provide this service.”

Native advertising

relevance,” said Gideon Rubin, CEO

Native advertising is a strategic marketing approach that seamlessly embeds persuasive ads within platform content. Small businesses can prioritize this strategic marketing approach to ensure a smooth user experience, which can ultimately boost engagement and foster connections with audiences. “[Native advertising] ensures a non-disruptive user experience while harnessing the power of contextual

and co-founder of YourIAQ. “It only enhances engagement, establishes a more authentic connection with audiences and increases the likelihood of conversion.”

CO— brings you inspiration from leading respected experts. However, before making any business decision, you should consult a professional who can advise you based on your individual situation.

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SPECIAL SECTION

(continued from the front page)

Rebecca Francis, Ignite Change Solutions Rebecca Francis started Ignite Change Solutions to help companies and their staff understand the benefits of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.

“In the beginning, the word of mouth about my work was good, but I didn’t tell people online what I did. I didn’t showcase my work or take photos. I got smarter in my second year realizing that if I don’t show people my work, they won’t know what I do,” Francis said.

She invested in a photographer and a videographer to capture her accomplishments, and she asked her clients to share her work.

Her persistence has paid off. Francis was asked to participate in the inaugural ForbesBLK Summit, as well as the Goldman Sachs Cohort program. She also has a dedicated following on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and is making a push to launch YouTube shorts in 2024, focusing on how businesses can improve their diversity communications.

Francis has seen first-hand how consistent communication helps her clients retain lessons learned and build consistent communication strategies of their own. “People often feel communications is an added bonus until they have a bad public relations moment.

Then that lack of communication can be a big setback.”

Marketing & Communicaton

January 2024

And she believes that investing in developing interpersonal communication skills within a company is just as essential.

“To want to communicate with one another in a positive way, without being abrasive, discouraging or unkind, we have to say things out loud. That sets people free.”

clients to call now for a free estimate.

Telling your story gets more reach than trying to sell something.”

The smart phone has made connecting your brand with your personality easier than ever.

“You don’t need crazy video equipment.

Make your content with a cell phone. If you do spend money on any equipment, buy a wireless microphone. People can tolerate bad video, but they won’t tolerate bad audio,” Bradt said.

According to Bradt, being active on social media is a must. “When someone hears about your business, they’ll Google you to find your social media. Don’t let people incorrectly think you went out of business just because you haven’t posted in a while.”

Bradt also feels consistency is key.

“Don’t overthink your posts, and don’t burn yourself out. I’d rather see consistent bi-weekly posts than one week of daily posts followed by a week or two of silence.

Rockford Buzz helps our clients build that consistency.”

Jacob Bradt, Rockford Buzz Jacob Bradt founded Rockford Buzz ten years ago. Today, Rockfordbuzz.com is the go-to resource for young Rockfordians looking for a night on the town or a good deal from a local business.

When talking with clients about becoming an advertising partner, Bradt starts with the three Ms—the market, the message and the medium.

“Customers need to know their market and where to find it. When it comes to online communities, if your target market is over 50, Instagram isn’t where they’re at. And a local audience won’t likely be reachable by a social media market like Tik Tok that doesn’t have geographicspecific exposure,” he said.

Bradt has built his brand through local word of mouth and social media like Facebook.

“The local businesses that I see doing well with their marketing highlight the people connected to the business instead of the product,” Bradt said. “It’s called Facebook, not Productbook. Make content that talks about an experience.

Don’t post graphics with prices or ask

Nancy Chamberlain, Rosecrance Behavioral Health The communications team at Rosecrance Behavioral Health handles the needs of 60 locations across three states serving 50,000 people every year. This difficult task falls to Nancy Chamberlain, director of communications, and her fourperson staff. The team develops content for websites, podcasts, email newsletters,

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com an annual magazine and print materials specific to each location.

“We know that the Chicago metro market is very different from northwest Iowa, central Illinois, Madison and Rockford. So we work to be sensitive to the cultures of these different areas,” she said.

Roscrance’s “On Your Radar” podcast, hosted by Tom Farley, brother of Saturday Night Live legend Chris Farley, has proven to be and especially effective communication tool.

“Recently we featured a conversation about the ‘sober curious’ movement addressing a downward trend in alcohol consumption among Generation Z,” Chamberlain said. The team also actively participates in local chambers of commerce where Rosecrance has facilities.

“Whenever we open a new location, we look to build a partnership with the local chamber where we can get our experts into their publications, announce employee promotions, and look for opportunities to give presentations,” she said.

The most important piece of Chamberlain’s communications strategy is the privilege of telling the stories of their alumni and clients. “Learning about the value of their experience and the impact of their journey, that’s the greatest joy for me. These people make my job easier by telling me their stories that we then share with compassion, integrity and hope.” v

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

January 2024

Marketing & Communicaton

GUEST COLUMNIST

How SEO audits can help your website work FOR you

these three areas will help you create a plan of action to address immediate needs and a long-term strategy for search engine optimization.

Create a to-do list

Getting visitors to your business is vital, and that very often starts at your virtual front door – your website.

Websites don’t have standard business hours; they’re ready for your customers 24/7, 365 days a year. However, just having a web presence isn’t enough. It’s no longer an, “If you build it, they will come” web world. To get noticed and get the lead, your site needs to speak the language of those potential clients and provide them with the best user experience possible. Here are tips to enhance your virtual curb appeal and maximize your opportunities to be listed near the top of search engine rankings.

Ensure your site is in tip-top shape Look at your website with a critical eye. Ensure it works well technically and provides the best user experience.

The backend of your site should have no errors, plug-ins should be updated regularly, page load times should be low, and all links should be working. On the front end, your site should be written in a language your customers understand and use. It should meet best practices for design and accessibility – an increasingly important consideration. If you aren’t sure how your site ranks in the world of rankings, a search engine optimization (SEO) audit can identify where you’re doing well and where you have room for improvement.

At Chartwell, we’ve conducted many audits for our clients as well as for ourselves. We know the importance of the discovery process, as well as the subsequent action steps.

What does an SEO audit entail?

An SEO audit includes three elements: • A technical review of your site.

• How your site compares with those of your closest competitors.

• A keyword analysis of how users find your site relative to those competitors.

An extensive review and analysis of

It’s not hard to see when your site is having issues with its speed, missing images or even broken page links. But knowing your site is not performing at its best and prioritizing your fix it list are two different things.

A good SEO audit prioritizes issues that need to be fixed, pinpoints what you need to address quickly to be competitive, and identifies strategic keywords that need to be incorporated into the site’s content. Armed with this information, you can focus on fixes that drive immediate impact while paving the way for crafting long-term strategies.

Bang for the buck A high-functioning website that speaks your customer’s language and provides the best user experience is a valuable marketing tool, worthy of the investment of time and resources. In terms of measurable impact, we at Chartwell can speak to that ourselves. After conducting our own SEO audit, our organic traffic grew into our top source of website traffic.

This includes an increased number of users, pageviews and sessions on our site.

The quality of that traffic has improved as well, with longer durations on the site that translated into real revenue opportunities.

Creating a website that not only works for your customers but also ranks well with search engines will help reach audiences with whom you have not already engaged, creating a pipeline of warm leads for your team. An SEO audit is a great first step to ensure that your website has all the curb appeal for search engine rankings while providing the best user experience for your current and potential customers.

Elizabeth Lazdins is the first impressions officer at Chartwell Agency. She manages clients’ social paid media efforts, develops client digital dashboards, provides digital analytics, and manages the Google Analytics efforts for clients.

She also conducts and provides project management for client SEO audits.

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

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GUEST COLUMNIST

Using SEO as a catalyst for business growth ELIZABETH LAZDINS, Chartwell Agency

SPECIAL SECTION

The essential role of digital and social advertising JAY GRAHAM, GrahamSpencer Brand + Content Solutions

Visibility for your small business without breaking the bank

We live in an age in which digital interconnectivity matters – and small businesses find themselves at a crossroads.

Traditional methods of advertising, though still relevant, are becoming overshadowed by the ever-evolving world of digital and social media advertising.

As an advertising agency creative director, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power these tools hold for businesses and their ability to contribute to brand awareness and growth.

A tectonic shift has led to a staggeringly high percentage of the population spending increasingly more time online, especially on social media. I would not be surprised to hear that when many of you who own iPhones get your weekly screen time reports, you have a moment of disbelief: “I spent how much time onscreen last week!?”

From your perspective as business owners and operators, this is good news, because it can tell you where to reach and engage with your target audiences.

Digital and social platforms offer higher precision targeting, allowing businesses to reach specific demographics with tailored messages that are trackable and reportable at granular levels.

The cost-effectiveness of digital advertising cannot be overstated, particularly for small businesses operating with limited budgets. The return on investment (ROI) from digital and social campaigns is measurable in ways that traditional advertising isn’t.

That doesn’t mean there’s no place for traditional media in today’s marketing landscape; there is. And I believe there always will be. Outdoor advertising with its scale and immediacy will always provide lift. Print, with its physical, tactile feel and its inherent sense that it is less fleeting may well matter more in the future than it does even now. I wouldn’t bet against it.

WARNING. By the way, digital efficiency isn’t about spending less; it’s about spending smarter. The digital and social revolutions are not free-ride gateways to spending zero dollars on advertising. Many people think they are, but they simply are not free silver bullets.

However, with tools like pay-per-click (PPC) advertising and search engine optimization (SEO) and organic and paid social, small businesses can achieve significant visibility without breaking the bank.

As I said earlier, measurability is a key advantage of digital and social media advertising. Agencies and businesses can track the performance of campaigns in

real time, gaining valuable insights into what resonates with their audiences – and what does not. This data-driven approach allows for continual refinement and optimization of advertising strategies.

Brand awareness and online presence have become the cornerstone of many successful marketing strategies. That equates to credibility and trustworthiness in the eyes of consumers. It is crucial to connect with consumers in a way that builds community.

Digital and social media advertising are not just tools for the present; they are investments in the future.

For startups, the journey should include establishing a solid branding and marketing strategy (preferably based, at least in part, on data and insights), a professional website and a presence on major social media platforms. From there, exploring options like regional SEO, content marketing and social media ads can progressively elevate your brand’s digital footprint.

Retail businesses should be prepared to spend money on the physical applications of brand identity, as well. Word to the wise; if you’re a startup, don’t be the one that does not factor branding, advertising, web, content development, SEO, etc, into your business plan and budget.

I often tell people that when GrahamSpencer was founded in 1987, the first piece of technology we purchased was a fax machine. Needless to say, a lot has changed in the interim. As we look towards the future, we must all continue to stay abreast of change. Why? Because the adaptability and innovation inherent in these digital platforms will make them increasingly indispensable for businesses needing to stay relevant and competitive.

Bottom line; investing in digital and social advertising and high-quality messaging and branding is no longer optional. It’s essential for survival and growth as part of a holistic 360-degree media plan. Embrace the future with the professionals of your choice and enjoy the ride founded on planning, accountability and creativity.

Jay Graham is founder and co-creative director of GrahamSpencer Brand + Content Solutions, headquartered in downtown Rockford with team members in Atlanta, Salt Lake City and Nashville.

GrahamSpencer.com The views expressed are those of Graham and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

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January 2024

A Look Back at 2023

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

January 2024

Thank You Sponsors!

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Thank you to our 2023 Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce Sponsors! We appreciate your dedication to our mission to deliver benefit to the community by leading in the promotion of economic growth, advocating for the interests of business, and providing service and educational opportunities that help our members grow.

Winnebago County States Attorneys Office

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January 2024

(continued from front page)

understand how to best maximize their dollars to achieve their goals.

As we transition to our new investment options, we’re also changing over our database system. Our new system and website (same URL – rockfordchamber. com) will allow for a more user-friendly experience, with increased controls over information, efficiencies in registration, and the ability to easily understand and utilize your member benefits.

Chamber work has morphed over the recent years. While our mission to serve the business community as a resource and advocate has held true since our inception in 1910, the way we realize our mission must change with the needs of our

members. Post-COVID, businesses need resources, training, access and advocacy in different ways than they did before.

Connection remains vital, but availability has shifted and lessened. Information is widely available, but sifting through it can be cumbersome and overwhelming.

Talent attraction and retention is a battle businesses, large and small, continue to creatively fight.

As we evolve, GRCC will continue to promote economic growth, advocate for the interests of business, and provide services and educational opportunities that help our members grow.

We look forward to a prosperous, energized 2024 serving you, our members, to the greatest capacity.

MEMBER PROFILE profile profile

Butch Rosecke, Mr. Goodwater

JOIN US FOR AN EVENT IN 2024 As a Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce member, you’re invited to attend networking, leadership development, personal and professional development programs, and community awareness events. Identify your organization’s need – be it networking, learning, training or more – and mark your calendar to join us. Registration for events can be found at rockfordchamber.com. Check back for speaker information, topic updates and more.

THE UPDATE 9-10:30 a.m. | University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford March 21, June 6, October 17, December 12 Principle Small Business Sponsor: Thayer Energy Solutions

CELEBRATION OF LEADERSHIP 10 a.m. – noon | Hoffman House April 18 Presented by Mr. Goodwater

GREATER ROCKFORD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE GOLF CLASSIC 11 a.m. lunch, noon shotgun start The Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Club May 20 Presenting Sponsorships still available.

Contact Melissa Adams (madams@rockfordchamber.com) today.

PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW HONOREE RECEPTION 4-6 p.m. | The Standard June 20 Presented by workplace Staffing

GREATER ROCKFORD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNUAL DINNER 5-8 p.m. | Tebala Event Center September 19 Presented by OSF Healthcare

MIDWEST AEROSPACE CONFERENCE Full day conference | Location TBA October 17

POW(H)ER 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Location TBA November 7 Presenting Sponsorship still available Contact Melissa Adams (madams@rockfordchamber.com) today.

Find more information on our reoccurring events – Government Affairs Council, Business Over Lunch (presented by Thayer Energy Solutions), Leadership Rockford, Speed Networking, Ribbon Cuttings, Lead 360 and more – at rockfordchamber.com.

Butch Rosecke is the charismatic founder of Mr. Goodwater. In 2005, he had a mission to redefine the water industry landscape by establishing Mr. Goodwater. His journey into entrepreneurship began with a commitment to providing unparalleled service, a principle that remains at the core of Mr. Goodwater’s operations.

Armed with a passion for excellence and a commitment to building lasting relationships with clients, Rosecke’s venture quickly gained traction in the local market.

In 2006, Rosecke hired his first employee — his dad. Today, Mr. Goodwater has more than 20 employees.

“This is a family business. My top priority since day one has been building something I can pass on to my children, Justin and Kassie, who now work alongside me,” Rosecke said. “We work hard to foster an environment that values teamwork, innovation and a shared commitment to customer satisfaction.”

A few years into its inception, Mr. Goodwater expanded its operations to include a warehouse in Belvidere. This strategic business move provided the company with direct access to Belvidere and surrounding communities. Today, the business is a trusted name in the community for water-related solutions.

From water softeners to filtration systems, Mr. Goodwater offers a comprehensive suite of products and services designed to cater to the diverse needs of its customers. Even the company’s front signage has its own fan base – gaining local recognition for its jokes and puns that change on a weekly basis.

Rosecke said he became a member of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce because he understood the pivotal role community involvement plays in business success. For him, being a part of the chamber is more than a membership – it’s a commitment to the growth and prosperity of the local business community. And he values the

networking, support, and advocacy the chamber provides.

Networking lies at the heart of Rosecke’s engagement. A 2017 graduate of Leadership Rockford, he said the program single-handedly contributed to the growth of his company.

“Leadership Rockford meets on Friday mornings. Every Thursday night, I would go and wash my Mr. Goodwater company truck. Every Friday morning, I would make sure to be the first to arrive at our meetings. I parked right out front so that every person who walked in got to see my truck. You know what happens after that? They start noticing us on the road,” Rosecke said. “I also introduced myself to everyone I came across. I wanted them to hear my name and see Mr. Goodwater.

Those connections I made through Leadership Rockford has led me to new business opportunities in all the years since.”

Being a part of a dynamic network of local businesses has opened doors to valuable connections, partnerships and collaborative opportunities for Rosecke. Regular chamber events give him the opportunity to interact with fellow entrepreneurs, exchange ideas and stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the local business landscape. Through these connections, Mr. Goodwater has expanded its client base.

Rosecke’s story with Mr. Goodwater is not just a narrative of business success; it’s a testament to the transformative power of community engagement through organizations like the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce. Through networking, support, and advocacy, Rosecke has found a thriving ecosystem that aligns with his values and propels Mr. Goodwater toward continued success in the local business landscape.

“I’ve worked hard and have been in communities that have been so good to me, my family and our business,” Rosecke said. “It’s not bad to be me these days.”

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January 2024

GREATER ROCKFORD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

economic development Economic development trends for 2024 Outlook and opportunities for the Rockford region With the new year, the economic landscape is poised for a dynamic transformation that could bring new opportunities to businesses in the Rockford area. The Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce has identified key trends that will define economic development in the coming year, guiding local businesses towards a path of sustainable growth and success.

1. Potential deceleration in economic growth The first trend shaping the economic development landscape in 2024 is the anticipated deceleration in economic growth. J.P. Morgan predicts a soft landing, with real GDP growth walking the line between a slight expansion and contraction. After growth of 2.8% experienced in 2023, a more modest 0.7% is forecasted for the new year. This shift is attributed to the broader effects of monetary policy and the fading tailwinds from the post-pandemic era.

For businesses in the Rockford region, this calls for a nuanced approach.

While the pace of expansion may slow, there are opportunities to capitalize on the improved performance in business investment and housing activities, even in the face of higher interest rates.

The Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce encourages local businesses to leverage the foundation set in 2023 for sustained growth, adapting strategies to navigate the evolving economic landscape.

2. Stability in monetary policy and interest rates The second trend that we are seeing is stability in monetary policy. In December, the Federal Reserve held its key interest rate steady for the third straight time and has set the table for multiple cuts to potentially come in 2024 and beyond. With the inflation rate easing and the economy holding in, the Federal Open Market Committee voted unanimously to keep the borrowing rate between 5.25% and 5.5%.

Committee members also included at least three rate cuts in 2024, assuming quarter percentage point increments.

This could possibly end a cycle that has seen 11 hikes, pushing the fed funds rate to its highest level in more than 22 years.

This stable monetary environment provides an opportunity for local businesses to plan for the future with a degree of certainty. As interest rates adjust, businesses should strategically manage their financial portfolios, keeping an eye on potential policy shifts that could impact borrowing costs. The GRCC emphasizes the importance of financial planning and risk management in this stable yet evolving monetary landscape.

3. Decreased consumer spending In 2024, the U.S. consumer is expected to face challenges, including diminished savings, plateauing wages, and possible financial stress with

the restart of student loan payments and credit card delinquencies. While consumer spending is likely to slow from 2023, the Economic Development Team believes local businesses can thrive by understanding and adapting to these challenges.

By anticipating a shift in consumer spending, businesses can proactively tailor offerings to meet changing consumer needs. Tight labor markets and healthy household spending provides a foundation for continued consumer spending growth, albeit at a lower rate. Strategies focused on enhancing customer experience, building loyalty and exploring new markets will be crucial in maintaining positive consumer relationships.

4. Focus on fiscal responsibility and efficient operations The larger-than-expected fiscal boost to the U.S. economy in 2023 is expected to shift to a slight headwind in 2024. The federal deficit, while still substantial at 5.9% of GDP, reflects a tightening of spending and increased interest outlays on government debt.

For businesses in the Rockford region, this shift emphasizes the importance of fiscal responsibility and efficiency in operations.

Local businesses may want to consider reassessing their financial strategies, focusing on optimizing spending while identifying areas for growth. Greater Rockford Chamber

of Commerce staff members are able to provide and connect business with available resources locally and statewide, exploring innovative financing options to navigate the evolving fiscal landscape effectively.

5. Potential challenges to labor markets and unemployment rates The last trend shaping economic development in the new year is normalization of labor markets with the possibility of a rise in the unemployment rate. Businesses across the country are turning their focus to talent retention and development, employing strategies that enhance workplace satisfaction, offer competitive compensation and address emerging workforce trends. The trend of taking a proactive approach to combat unemployment rates and retain employees will likely set businesses up for success in the evolving labor market.

All the economic development trends in 2024 present both challenges and opportunities, but the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce emphasizes the importance of agility, innovation and strategic planning to navigate these trends successfully. By staying informed and adapting proactively, local businesses can position themselves for sustainable growth in the coming year and beyond.

The Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce pledges its support to help our members navigate and succeed in the year to come.

Advancing innovation and inclusivity in casting and forging GRCC helps build diverse talent pipeline for advanced manufacturing Through our economic development work, the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) is at the forefront of driving progress in casting, forging and energy storage manufacturing.

As a member of the Illinois Defense Manufacturing Consortium (ILDMC), our mission is to establish a Center of Excellence Model, fostering innovation, expanding industrial capacity and building a diverse talent pipeline for advanced manufacturing and defense resiliency, with a focus on underrepresented populations.

In recent months, our team has diligently worked to amplify casting and forging. We’ve collaborated with companies integral to the supply chain, offering insights into regional needs

and support mechanisms. A significant milestone was achieved in October when the GRCC met with the ILDMC in the Quad Cities. During this meeting, our team presented program metrics and highlighted the impactful work in our community.

In November, our team hosted the Veteran’s Employment, Education & Training Seminar, a collaborative effort involving the Veterans Administration, Rock Valley College, The Workforce Connection and the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center.

This seminar provided local veterans with opportunities for education and careers in manufacturing. The event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Fire Department Coffee.

Current reports indicate promising trends in both casting and forging within

industry, leading to enhanced innovation and efficiency.

the ILDMC. Employment in the casting

The GRCC is maintaining continuous

sector grew by 10% over the 2010-2020

engagement with casting and forging

period, while industry sales witnessed a 14% increase. Similarly, the forging sector experienced 4% growth in employment and an impressive 137% surge in industry sales over the same period.

As we look ahead in 2024, our team is gearing up for a January meeting with the ILDMC to share current metrics and foster collaboration with other municipalities. We also aspire to create a

manufacturers and stakeholders. We understand the importance of staying connected to industry dynamics, and our team is committed to providing ongoing support to ensure the growth and success of businesses in these sectors.

As we move forward, the GRCC’s economic

development

work

will

continue to foster a robust and inclusive

casting and forging roundtable, bringing

environment for casting and forging

together manufacturers for knowledge-

manufacturers, driving economic growth

sharing and collaboration. This initiative

and resilience in Rockford and northern

aims to strengthen the bonds within the

Illinois.

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January 2024

in the news

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

Greater Rockford Chamber members appear bolded.

Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members.

1. Kim Summers

2. Jennifer Ahlstrand

3. Mindy Young

4. Raymond Garcia, M.D.

5. Teddy Paruzynski

6. Alex Swedberg

7. Sarah Wolf

8. Shamara Glover

9. Dr. Shylendra Sreenivasappa, MD

10. Valerie Curry

11. Chad Ryan

12. Brandon Larson

13. Tanya Brown

14. Calvin Wiegand

15. David Chrest

16. Kerry Fox

17. Dan Kennedy

18. Erica Shann

19. Garrett Sonntag

20. Robert “Bob” Trojan

BOARD APPOINTMENTS The Rockford Public Library Foundation announced the appointment of two new board members – Kim Summers (1) and Jennifer Ahlstrand (2).

Severson Dells Nature Center announced the addition of two new board members – Michelle Borgialli joined in September of 2023 and Jarid Funderburg of Savant Wealth Management joined in October of 2023.

Forest City Gear announced that Mindy Young (3), shareholder and third daughter of Fred and Wendy Young, was invited to join the Rockford Symphony Orchestra Foundation Board.

NEW HIRES, PROMOTIONS, RETIREMENTS, DEATHS Rosecrance announced that Raymond Garcia, M.D. (4), will lead Rosecrance’s medical services as the chief medical officer beginning Jan. 1.

RAMP promoted Teddy Paruzynski (5) to youth education advocate and hired Alex Swedberg (6) as youth services specialist.

Discovery Center Museum announced Executive Director Sarah Wolf (7) will retire at the end of January 2024 after leading the museum for 43 years. Wolf was one of the founders of the children’s museum and is its first and only executive director.

Rockford Mutual Insurance Co promoted Shamara Glover (8) to marketing assistant II. Byron Bank welcomed Adam Talbert, LPL financial planner, to their Byron location.

OSF HealthCare welcome back Dr.

Shylendra Sreenivasappa, MD (9), an oncologist at OSF HealthCare Patricia D. Pepe Center for Cancer Care in Rockford.

CoyleKiley Insurance Agency, Inc., welcomed Valerie Curry (10) as a personal lines account manager.

Fehr Graham hired Chad Ryan (11) as project manager, Brandon Larson (12) as financial reporting and analysis manager, and Tanya Brown (13) as a community development specialist. Calvin Wiegand (14) and David Chrest (15) were sworn in as licensed attorneys in November and sworn in by the Honorable Judge Ronald White as assistant state’s attorneys for the Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office.

First National Bank and Trust (FNBT), welcomed Kerry Fox (16) and Dan Kennedy (17) to its credit services team.

EMPLOYEE/COMMUNITY RECOGNITIONS, AWARDS Rockford Mutual Insurance Co announced employee milestones: Erica Shann (18), 5 years and Garrett Sonntag (19), 10 years.

The Alpine Kiwanis Club of Rockford announced Dave Reiter (right) as the recipient of the 2023 “Touch of Life Award”. This award acknowledges the outstanding efforts of a local individual whose leadership, time and talents have touched of lives of many.

Rock Valley College Trustee Robert “Bob” Trojan (20) was honored by the Rockford Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals as AFP Philanthropist of the Year.

The Alpine Kiwanis Club of Rockford announced Dave Reiter as the recipient of the 2023 “Touch of Life Award”.

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January 2024

business

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Savant Wealth Management, acquired Clinton, South Carolinabased Peay & Associates, LLC, a CPA firm providing tax and accounting services, and its associated RIA firm, SwaimBrown Wealth Management.

Earlier, Savant announced plans to acquire $2.2 billion, Alabama-based Bridgeworth Wealth Management before the end of 2023.

Construction is underway to expand Rock House Kids, a safe haven for inner-city kids grades 1-12, located at 1325 7th Street. Once complete, RHK will have a new gym/activity center, three new classrooms, restrooms, and a teen lounge/homework area.

Construction on the inside is expected to be completed by the end of February 2024 with remaining outside work completed next spring.

ComEd, partnering with R1, the City of Rockford, and seven additional partners, received a $50 million Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Energy.

This coalition will invest in smart grid technologies to support solar and EV expansion, and pilot workforce training initiatives specific to clean energy. Nearly 80% of spending will be used to bring those benefits directly to Rockford’s disadvantaged communities.

Nominations are now open for the YWCA Northwestern Illinois, 2024 Leader Luncheon XLIV: Women of Achievement awards. The submission deadline is Jan. 20, 2024. Community

members are encouraged to nominate leaders who exemplify the YWCA’s mission to eliminate racism and empower women. Six individuals will be honored at the luncheon on March 4, 2024.

VIQTORY named SupplyCore Inc. as the recipient of two designations: Silver 2024 Military Friendly® Employer and 2024 Military Spouse Friendly® Employer. These honors attest to SupplyCore’s commitment to fostering an environment of support, collaboration and opportunity for veterans and their families.

The Natural Land Institute (NLI), one of the oldest land trusts in the U.S., hired Studio GWA to complete a long-term restoration plan for its headquarters in the Haight Village National Register Historic District at 320 South Third Street, Rockford, Illinois. The house was built in 1903 in a prairie-influenced Classic Revival style.

Greater Rockford Chamber members appear bolded.

Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members.

Rockford has to offer. It is a blend of fun and education for Rockford residents or anyone wanting to visit the area. Now available on Amazon.

Family Counseling Services was awarded a $15,000 grant from the Dr. Louis and Violet Rubin fund of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois.

The Workforce Connection awarded the Business Leadership Award for 2023 to Absolute Fire Protection (below) for their vision, leadership and partnership in creating and expanding apprenticeship opportunities for Fire Sprinkler Fitters.

Rockford Rescue Mission received a $36,641 grant to provide childcare while residents and guests rebuild their lives in the Mission’s Works!

Center. The grant was awarded by the Dr. Louis and Violet Rubin Fund of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois.

Barbara Olson Center of Hope received a $5,000 grant from the Woodward Charitable Trust to purchase new wheelchairs for the center’s 120-plus participants with developmental disabilities, particularly those with mobility issues.

Barbara Olson Center of Hope received a grant from the Try Beta Club to purchase a refrigerator as part of an upgrade to their staff lounge. Each day, the staff work with more than 120 individuals with developmental disabilities.

Rockford Public Schools elementary ESL teachers Kathleen Z. Henschen, and Thomas Mitchell (below), coauthored a children’s book promoting Rockford. Through the eyes of two children, this book, Exploring the Forest City, Rockford, Illinois, delves into some of the fascinating things

On Dec. 7, 2023, Boylan Catholic Student Council students delivered Christmas gift baskets to the St. Elizabeth Community Center. The 74 baskets, filled with groceries and gift cards, will support 37 different families and help ensure they have a Merry Christmas.

Kathleen Z. Henschen, and Thomas Mitchell

Local families can bring the joy of reading to their homes with United Way of Rock River Valley and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

Children in Winnebago County, ages 0-5, can receive 60 diverse, ageappropriate books over five years, including bilingual titles. United for Literacy is a partnership between United Way and more than 30 local organizations in Winnebago County.

Adding Imagination Library to that partnership brings more books and corresponding literacy resources and activities to families in Winnebago County. Any resident with children under five in Winnebago County can enroll for free and start building their children’s at-home libraries by registering at unitedwayrrv.org/ imaginationlibrary.

Rock Valley Credit Union (RVCU), a local and independent financial institution that offers personal solutions for individual and family banking needs, was one of 39 organizations across the country to be recognized by Kudos® with a Culture Innovator Award.

Savant Wealth Management, a nationally recognized, fee-only registered investment adviser (RIA) headquartered in Rockford, was featured in two InvestmentNews 2023 rankings—Fastest-Growing Fee-Only RIAs and Top 25 Fee-Only Firms in the Midwest. Savant did not pay to be included in either ranking.

Absolute Fire Protection

Let your

Voice be heard

The Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce ­welcomes and encourages member submissions for The VOICE of the Greater Rockford Business Community. Deadline is the 10th of the month preceding ­publication date. Send news releases and other items of interest to the business community to: The VOICE Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce 308 W. State St., Ste. 350 Rockford, IL 61101 For information about advertising contact Customer Service at 815-987-8100. The VOICE of the Greater Rockford Business Community (USPS 784-120). ISSN number 1086-0630, is published monthly by the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce, 308 W. State St., Ste. 350, Rockford, Illinois 61101. Periodicals postage paid at Rockford, Ill. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The VOICE of the Greater Rockford Business Community, 308 W. State St., Ste. 350, Rockford, IL 61101.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

January 2024

community COMMUNITY EVENTS

Greater Rockford Chamber members appear bolded.

Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members.

JANUARY

SATURDAY, JANUARY 27

FRIDAY, JANUARY 5

Charlie Berens: Good Old Fashioned Tour, 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main Street, Rockford.

First Friday Wine Tasting raising money for Shelter Care Ministries, 5:30-8 p.m., Artale & Co., 6876 Spring Creek Rd, #128, Rockford. Sample 24 different wines from around the world. Admission is a $20 cash/check donation to Shelter Care Ministries.

MONDAY, JANUARY 8 Wee Nats: Winter Wonderland– University of Illinois Extension, 4 p.m., Pecatonica Library, 400 W. 11th Street #400, Pecatonica. A fun interactive program for youth ages 4-7, providing environmental education through a story, activity, craft and hike. Children must be accompanied by an adult during the program. Please dress according to the weather. Register at go.illinois.edu/WeeNatsPec.

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 31 Northwest Illinois Agronomy Summit, hosted by U of I Extension, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Highland Community College Conference Center, 2998 W Pearl City Rd, Freeport. The theme for this year’s conference is Updates in Nutrient, Weed, and Soil Health Management, and will feature specialists from University of Illinois and University of Wisconsin-Madison. To register or for more information visit go.illinois.edu/jsw or call U of I Extension at (815)986-4357. Registration is required to attend. Registration cost is $25.

FEBRUARY

THURSDAY, JANUARY 11

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2

Disney on Ice Presents Into The Magic, 7 p.m., BMO Center, 300 Elm Street, Rockford. Event has multiple showings through January 15.

Dude Dad Live, 8 p.m., Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main Street, Rockford.

2024 State of American Business, presented online by U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 10-11:30 a.m. U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Suzanne P. Clark will promote the innovation and impact of America’s free enterprise system during the annual State of American Business Event. This event draws a virtual audience of more than 10,000 people from around the world, including small business owners, Fortune 500 CEOs, community leaders, policymakers, journalists, local chamber executives and American Chamber of Commerce leaders. Register for free at www.uschamber.com/ events.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 6

FRIDAY, JANUARY 20 Mania: The ABBA Tribute, 7:30 p.m., Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main Street, Rockford.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 24-27 Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition presented by Rockford Park District, 7 a.m.-10 p.m., Sinnissippi Park, 1375 N. Second Street, Rockford. Blocks of snow are transformed into works of art as teams from around the state compete for the right to represent Illinois in the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Competition in 2025. Viewing hours are daily from sunrise until 10 p.m. You may drive or walk through. After the event, sculptures will remain in the park for as long as weather conditions allow. Voting for the people’s choice award in the state and high school divisions will take place online on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024, 8:30 a.m. to noon at www.tallyspace.com/ vote/rockfordparkdistrict.

on digital

Come From Away, 8 p.m., Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main Street, Rockford.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Romance, Poetry & Valentines: Presented by Rockford Symphony Orchestra, 7:30 p.m., Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main Street, Rockford. This romantic program will feature music by four composers—Schumann, Brahms, Mahler and Viktor Ullman—whose sound was very much inspired by poetry, the human voice and one another.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 12 Wee Nats: Stargazing – University of Illinois Extension, 4 p.m., Pecatonica Library, 400 W. 11th Street #400, Pecatonica. A fun interactive program for kids ages 4-7, providing environmental education through a story, activity, craft and hike. Children must be accompanied by an adult during the program. Please dress according to the weather. Register at go.illinois.edu/ WeeNatsPec MARCH

MONDAY, MARCH 4 YWCA Leader Luncheon XLIV: Women of Achievement, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Tebala Event Center, 7910 Newburg Road, Rockford.

MEMBER PICS

Thank You to Our 2023 Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors!

Our Ambassadors are champions of the Chamber and our mission.

Looking to expand your network in 2024?

Consider becoming an Ambassador!

Contact Kristin Muehlfelder at kmuehfelder@rockfordchamber.com for more information.

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

January 2024

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS Thank you to members who renewed with the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce in November 2023 Advanced Chimney Systems Inc. Alignment Rockford Anderson Japanese Gardens Angelic Organics Learning Center

Laurent House Museum (designed

by Frank Lloyd Wright) Morgan Stanley - The Custer/ Meisch Group

AT&T

Movement Fitness

Benning Group LLC

New Zion Missionary Baptist

Bisconti Computers Inc. Boone-Winnebago Regional Office of Education Center for Sight & Hearing Children’s Safe Harbor City of Loves Park Cloisters of Forest Hills ColorLab Cosmetics, Inc. Crusader Community Health - West State Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Michelle Bowman, AAMS™, CRPC™ Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Erna Colborn, AAMS™, CRPS™, ABFP™ Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Karre J. Cromwell Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Lea Evers, CFP®, AAMS™, CRPS™ Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Chris Johnson Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Jenny Redington, CFP®, CRPC™ Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Jen Reisinger, AAMS™, CRPS™ Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Maren Sanders, AAMS™

Church Northern Illinois Regional Affordable Community Housing (NIReACH) Northern Illinois Terrazzo & Tile Company Novo Nordisk Pearson Plumbing & Heating Co. Piping Industry Council of the Rockford Area Porter Pipe & Supply Co. Professional Graphics Inc. RAC Adjustments, Inc. Relief Mental Health Rockford Ball Screw Rockford Christian Schools Rockford Molded Products

Business consulting and coaching.

Bryan Amezquita (312) 569-0780 www.Amezenterprises.com

Gourmet cookies and catering.

6150 E State St Ste 120, 61108 Marquell Jennings (779) 774-7668 www.Crumblcookies.com

BOONE COUNTY MUSEUM OF HISTORY Preserving Boone county’s history for the next generation.

314 S State St Belvidere IL 61008 Natali Monaghan (815) 544-8391 www.bcmuseumofhistory.org

BOONE COUNTY MUSEUM OF HISTORY - THE FUNDERBURG HOUSE Northern Illinois’ newest historic house museum and event venue.

605 N State St Belvidere IL 61008 Natali Monaghan (815) 544-8391 www.bcmuseumofhistory.org

CALL EXPERTS A 24/7/365 call center support organization.

Chris Gronberg (773) 621-9361 www.callexperts.com

MEGA TRANSPORT SERVICES CORP. A woman-owned trucking and logistics company dedicated to providing safe, reliable and efficient transportation solutions.

2104 N Central Ave, 61101 Rockford IL 61101 Tyrell Moore (815) 313-2099 megatransportcorp.com

ROCKFORD FAMILY HOME CARE LLC, DBA ASSISTING HANDS ROCKFORD A full-service home care agency which screens, hires and trains its employees, ensuring that you will have quality home care you can trust.

5301 E State St Ste 310, 61108 Jennifer Dexter (815) 884-2273 www.assistinghands.com/rockford

DECEMBER 2023 ANNIVERSARIES

Savant Wealth Management ServiceMaster Restoration by DSI Siepert & Co., LLP (Beloit) Siepert & Co., LLP (Roscoe) Siepert & Co., LLP (Sycamore) Special Power, Inc. Taylor Company The UPS Store Trekk, Inc.

Four Rivers Sanitation Authority

VetsRoll.org

Furst-McNess Company

Windmill Hill LC

GinestraWatson Co.

Winnebago County CASA (Court

Independence Village at Rockford

CRUMBL COOKIES

Company

Unity Hospice

Holiday Inn of Rockford

AMEZ ENTERPRISES

Rockford Structures Construction

Family Defined Benefits, LLC

Greenlink Energy Solutions, Inc.

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS

Appointed Special Advocate)

Thank you to our members celebrating their anniversaries with the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce

30 YEAR MEMBERS

Rockford Christian Schools

25 YEAR MEMBERS D & S Marine Inc.

15 YEAR MEMBERS

Anderson Japanese Gardens Rock River Environmental Services (Waste Connections)

Winnebago County Health Department

Inveniam Automation

Woodman’s Food Market, Inc. #30

KMK Media Group, Inc.

workplace

The VOICE, Greater Rockford Chamber 308 W. State St., Ste. 350 Rockford, IL 61101

5 YEAR MEMBERS

Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Jenny Redington, CFP®, CRPC™ Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Maren Sanders, AAMS™ Rockford Ball Screw Unity Hospice

Thank you to our members celebrating their anniversaries with the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce

45 YEAR MEMBERS BMO Center

25 YEAR MEMBERS

Market Dimensions, Inc.

14 YEAR MEMBERS Deadline is the 10th of the month preceding ­publication

Chastain & Associates LLC Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Michelle Bowman, AAMS™, CRPC™ Envoy Mortgage Rockford Rotary Club

JANUARY 2024 ANNIVERSARIES

HAVE NEWS TO SHARE? Send news releases and other items of interest to the business community to:

10 YEAR MEMBERS

Alignment Rockford Artale Wine Co. Region 1 Planning Council

10 YEAR MEMBERS

Boyland Catholic High School Gehrke Construction, General Contractors Jason’s Deli The Olympic Tavern

5 YEAR MEMBERS

Midwest Packaging and Container

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

CHaMBER

ADVERTISERS INDEX

CHAMBER EVENTS

JANUARY 2024 FRIDAY, JANUARY 5 Leadership Rockford Alumni Session – Healthcare, 8:30 a.m., Crusader Community Health on Alpine, 1215 N. Alpine Road, Rockford. Presented by Mr. Goodwater. Seats limited, available only to LR Alumni members.

Register at rockfordchamber.com.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 Leadership Rockford Alumni Session – Education, 8:30 a.m., NIU Rockford, 8500 E. State Street, Rockford. Presented by Mr. Goodwater. Seats limited, available only to LR Alumni members.

Register at rockfordchamber.com.

FEBRUARY 2024 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2 Leadership Rockford Alumni Session – Domestic Violence, 8:30 a.m., The Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Club, 5151 Guilford Road, Rockford.

Presented by Mr. Goodwater.

Seats limited, available only to LR Alumni members. Register at rockfordchamber.com.

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January 2024

Illinois Bank & Trust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Chamber Benefits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9

OSF HealthCare. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Thank You Sponsors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Government Affairs Council, 7:45 a.m., Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles Street, Rockford.

First Mid Bank & Trust. . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Leading Lawyers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

People You Should Know . . . . . . . . . . 4

GRCC Job Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Stillman Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Special Olympics Illinois. . . . . . . . . . . 16

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 13

Rock Valley College. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

WNIJ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Business Over Lunch, 11:30 a.m., Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, 200 S. Bell School Road, Rockford.

KMK Media Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Thayer Energy Solutions. . . . . . . . . . 20

VOICE

the

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16

Leadership Rockford Alumni Session – Manufacturing, 8:30 a.m., Bergstrom, 2390 Blackhawk Road, Rockford. Presented by Mr. Goodwater. Seats limited, available only to LR Alumni members.

Register at rockfordchamber.com.

Chamber Staff / Call 815-987-8100

Direct Line

Caitlin Pusateri, President...................................................................... 815-316-4337 Melissa Adams, Executive Assistant..................................................... 815-316-4312 Doug Hessong, Director of Publications & Technology..................... 815-316-4338 Alex Keedi, Business Development Manager ..................................... 815-969-4252

MARCH 2024

Carmen Kellerman, Events Manager ................................................... 815-316-4302

THURSDAY, MARCH 21

Doug Rand, Accounting Manager/Controller...................................... 815-316-4316

The Update, 9 a.m., University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford, 1601 Parkview, Rockford.

Premiere Small Business Sponsor: Thayer Energy Solutions.

SAVE THE DATE: GRCC Golf Classic May 20, 2024 @ The Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Club 11:00 a.m. lunch | Noon Shotgun

FEBRUARY VOICE SPECIAL SECTION

The Health & Wellness Issue Submit your article to editor@rockfordchamber.com

by January 10, 2024 For information on advertising, call 815 316-4337

Kristin Muehlfelder, Member Relations............................................... 815-316-4315

Joan Sundvall, Membership Contact Coordinator.............................. 815-316-4320 Matt Zarembski, Director of Investor Relations ................................. 815-987-8118

GREATER ROCKFORD CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Terry Voskuil Woodward, Inc., Chairman Lesly Couper workplace, Vice Chair Conor Brown NorthWest Illinois Alliance of Realtors, Treasurer

Jean Crosby Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Crosby Starck Real Estate Eric Cunningham Collins Aerospace Dietmar Goellner Advanced Machine & Hennig Engineering

Nate Jordan SBDC Carly LaMonica LaMonica Beverages, Inc. Frank Wehrstein Dickerson & Nieman Realtors

EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS

DIRECTORS

Thomas Green Barrick, Switzer, Long, Balsley & Van Evera, LLP

Wendy Alsteen Hard Rock Casino

Michael Gronewold Fehr Graham

Michael Dunn, Jr. Region 1

Travis Andersen UW Health Northern Illinois Region

Troy Haggestad WilliamsMcCarthy LLP

Caitlin Pusateri Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce

Armando Cardenas Affordable Insurance & Tax Paula Carynski OSF Healthcare St. Anthony Medical Center

Dr. Sheila Hill Think Big Corporation& Hill and Hill Enterprises Inc. Jeff Hultman Illinois Bank & Trust

Mayor Tom McNamara City of Rockford