The Voice is online at rockfordchamber.com
TEsToR coRpoRaTion
165 yEaR anniVERsaRy
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February 2012 | Volume 25 | No. 2
Willis earns high marks By Paul Anthony Arco A school superintendent sometimes can spend an entire career working to get a community to embrace change. It has taken Dr. Robert Willis all of six months to get Rockford residents on board with his plan to overhaul Rockford Public Schools. “He’s really taken the District in a new direction,” said Winnebago County Chairman Scott Christiansen. “I’m more optimistic than ever about the future of District 205 and the community.”
Photos by Brian Thomas Photography
Dr. Robert Willis provides encouragement during his address to the 700+ crowd at the Annual Dinner. Christiansen isn’t the only one, judging by the standing ovation Willis received by the crowd of 700 in attendance at the Rockford Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner, Jan. 19, at Giovanni’s. Willis shared his five Readiness Rocks initiatives to move the district forward in the near future. The initiatives include college and career readiness, seven periods of success, 21st-centuring learning environments, preschool for all and college for all. Willis also showed
videos of each initiative that included interviews with community leaders. In addition, he revealed that Rockford College has pledged $2 million and Judson University $1 million towards a plan to provide scholarships to help qualifying students earn a college degree. “This will allow us to slay that giant of hopelessness for so many children,” Willis said. “Together we can lead this community out of the economic more on page 3
Two new members join Rockford Chamber board By Barbara Connors
Visit us online at: rockfordchamber.com n online registration n keynote speaker video clips n event photos n list of chamber events questions? 815-987-8100
Join the chamber’s Linkedin Group www.linkedin.com/e/gis/2544
The Rockford Chamber welcomed two new members to its board in 2012. Somchan Thatsanaphon, vice president at K-I Machine Tool & Production, Inc., and Tim White, general manager at Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation, were elected for three-year terms on Jan. 1. “I feel like the Chamber has done a lot to help my company grow, and it’s my turn to give back to the community,” Thatsanaphon said. She said she plans to bring her viewpoint of manufacturing from a woman’s perspective, and through her board involvement aims to promote regional job growth.
Dee Premo iss honored for her service on the Rockford Chamber Board. Dee Premo, president at Whitehead, Inc. Realtors, completed nine years of board service on Dec. 31, 2011 -- the maximum permitted under Rockford Chamber bylaws. She was honored for her service at the Rockford Chamber’s Annual Dinner on Jan. 19 at Giovanni’s Restaurant & Convention Center. n
ExpandEd Tax cREdiT FoR hiRinG VETERans The work opportunity credit was expanded in 2011 to provide employers with new incentives to hire certain unemployed veterans. On Nov. 21, President Obama signed into law the VOW to Hire Heroes Act of 2011, which provides an expanded work opportunity tax credit to businesses that hire eligible unemployed veterans. For the first time it also makes part of the credit available to tax-exempt organizations. Businesses claim the credit as part of the general business credit, and tax-exempt organizations claim it against their payroll tax liability. The credit is available for eligible unemployed veterans who begin work on or after Nov. 22, 2011, and before Jan. 1, 2013. Visit www.IRS. gov/form8850 for more details.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
SMALL BUSINESS LUNCHEON February 16 • cliffbreakers For more info, see page 8 Tax hELp FoR Low-incomE FiLERs Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois has opened its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site at 615 N. Longwood St. in Rockford, offering free assistance to residents with low-to-moderate incomes, including persons with disabilities. Volunteer tax preparers are IRS certified and assist community members in claiming any special credits and deductions for which they may be eligible. The program is open to families with incomes less than $50,000 per year and individuals with incomes less than $25,000. Hours are Tuesdays from 5 to 8 p.m., and Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Machesney Park VITA site at the Machesney Park Goodwill store is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5 to 8 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. A new mobile site will travel to several locations in the Rockford region and throughout Goodwill’s service area. Call 815-494-2936 to schedule an appointment or visit www.goodwillni.org.
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President’s Message VIEWPOINT Rockford Chamber Kicks off 2012
Readiness Rocks! for our Public Schools We were thrilled to kick off 2012, our 102nd year as a Chamber of Commerce by featuring Dr. Robert Willis of Rockford Public Schools at the Chamber’s Annual Dinner to outline the District’s “Readiness Rocks!” which are the five industry-leading initiatives that will lay the foundation for improving and enhancing the school district as it moves forward. Dr. Willis captivated the audience of over 700 people and left them inspired as to what can be for our public schools if we all can get behind the initiatives and remain committed to our children. Dr. Willis talked of “slaying those giants” of hopelessness and despair and instead focus on those giants that build positive momentum to move our community forward.
The Five Readiness Rocks! Initiatives College & Career Readiness n Pre-K -- 12 College & Career Readiness Benchmarks n Professional Learning Communities Teaching Structure n High School Academies n Post-Secondary Education Partners
Seven Periods to Success n Expand 6-12 Dual Credit Offerings n Expand 6-12 Fine Arts, Electives & Enrichment Offerings n Provide Additional Support for Struggling Students (6-12) 21st Century Learning Environments n Ten-Year Facilities Plan n Technology Enhancements Preschool for All n Incrementally Expand Preschool Programs to Reach all District Children College for All n Financial Assistance to Qualifying RPS-205 students for Career or College Programs To learn more about how you can be part of advancing these initiatives please contact the Rockford Chamber or visit the School District’s website at www.rps205.com.
Chamber Launches New Programs for 2012 Also at the Annual Dinner, the Rockford Chamber reviewed its successes for 2011 as well as outlined its
program of work for 2012. New for 2012 include the following: Chamber Founders Day Celebration and Business Hall of Fame Induction On July 11 the Rockford Chamber will celebrate its 102nd birthday with a Founder’s Day Celebration at Midway Village and Museum Center. The Chamber is working with Junior Achievement to carry on its legacy of the Rockford Business Hall of Fame. During the celebration the Chamber will induct new members into the Hall of Fame. The Chamber and Junior Achievement’s long-range goal will be to establish a permanent exhibit at Midway Village for the Hall of Fame. Chamber University During the second half of 2012 the Rockford Chamber will host Chamber University, along with education partners, to offer a foundational curriculum for helping small businesses build and grow their organization and their bottom line! Many topics will be offered including strategic planning, social media, human resources, and financial
management Einar K. Forsman as well as others Rockford Chamber to help local of Commerce businesses develop a broader vision for their business. Chamber Public Policy Activities The Rockford Chamber has formed its Political Action Committee, ROCPAC. This committee will begin planning its activities around upcoming races for elected office and determine races and candidates to endorse for areas of key interest to the business community. In addition to this, the Chamber will host its third Candidate School to teach business people how to run for office. 2012 People You Should Know Begun for the first time in 2011 to honor those business leaders who are key figures in the business community, we will host the nomination and selection of our second class of these dedicated leaders, with an unveiling in October. To view all of the Rockford Chamber’s events and activities, please go to www.rockfordchamber.com.
theVoice rockfordchamber.com February 2012
Mike Robinson, director of marketing and communications at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, is recipient of the Citizen of the Year award.
High Marks Continued from front page
doldrums that we’ve been in. Businesses will want to relocate to a community that has these kinds of benefits for their employees. We hope this ends up being an economic development engine that helps our community grow and prosper.” “His presentation was articulated well,” said Casey Kahler, director of business development at Larson & Darby. “It stirred up positive emotions. Those of us who’ve been around for a while, all we’ve known for years are the problems with the Rockford Public Schools. It’s good to see there is a vision to get the District back on track.” Willis also announced that through a partnership with the Rockford Area Arts Council, the Kennedy Center Partners in Education Institute selected the Rockford Public Schools to participate in professional development programs for teachers. The program will take place in April at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Rockford is one of 12 programs across the country to be chosen. “This city is poised for success,” said Anne O’Keefe, president and CEO of the Rockford Area Arts Council. “There is a groundswell in this community from the arts community and businesses who understand that the solution lies within all of us. With a partnership from the Kennedy Center, people will take notice that the arts are absolutely important.” During the dinner, chamber officials highlighted successes from the past year, including the addition of the “People You Should Know” event, as well as a look ahead to 2012 programming. “We’ve been focusing on member engagement,” said Einar Forsman, president & CEO of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce. “We’re a membership-driven organization who celebrates our community leaders. Our
focus remains on creating a positive outlook for the future and building on the good things our members are doing.”
Robinson Named Citizen of the Year Another highlight from the annual dinner was the announcement of the Citizen of the Year award. This year’s recipient was Mike Robinson, director of marketing and communications at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center. Robinson, a former local television news anchor, is a diligent volunteer for many organizations, serving as a board member for Highview Retirement Home Association, Access Services of Northern Illinois and Rockford MELD. “I’ve always looked at my role as doing whatever I can to move the community forward,” he said. “I believe in what the community is doing, what the community stands for, and the people who are pushing it forward. I’m very appreciative that people recognize what I’ve been able to contribute to the community.” John Strandin, public relations manager for the Workplace Connection, has worked with Robinson in a variety of capacities. “It’s very well deserved,” he said. “If someone needs a hand with marketing or fundraising, Mike is there to help. His love for the community goes beyond the jobs that he’s held. He works for Rockford, not just the people who sign his check.” The annual dinner was presented by WilliamsMcCarthy LLP. Other sponsors were Humana (Citizen of the Year Award), OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center (gold), Leading Lawyers Network (silver) and Riverside Community Bank (calendar). “I really like vision and inspiration that is seemingly grounded in reality,” said LoRayne Logan, owner of workplace staffing. “I believe Rockford will not only rock, but deliver what was discussed at this year’s dinner.” n
Members of the audience have a chance to connect and discuss the school district’s proposed initiatives.
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Roundtable feedback focused on linking and capitalizing on opportunities Each year RACVB seeks community input on tourism-related issues through a series of roundtable discussions. Hoteliers, site and attraction staffers, government and business leaders, community advocates and members of the general public are invited to these meetings to share ideas and priorities for growing the visitor industry. During our recent discussions some consistent themes emerged, and I’d like to share them with you. We repeatedly heard about the need to create linkages in transportation, information and partnerships. There also was significant discussion regarding the need for innovation during the recent down economy and the importance of capitalizing on opportunities.
Creating Linkages We’ve seen several recent advances in the local tourism product – the opening of the Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens, the expansion of the Discovery Center Museum and Burpee Museum of Natural History, the extension of the river walk at the Riverfront Museum Park, and the success of Rockford City Market and Friday Night Flix. Now it’s important to develop a means to move people to and from these wonderful assets. You told us you would like to find a way to link our hotels on the east side to these exciting new and improved attractions in the downtown area and connect the attractions with each other. Water taxis, trolleys and bus programs are just some of the suggestions brought forth to make our sites and attractions more accessible. You also told us you want more ways to connect people with information. Rockford and our region offer highquality and exciting things to do, unique restaurants and retail outlets you won’t find anywhere else, and a value that beats big city prices. It’s important that we communicate this to both visitors and locals. Frontline staff at hotels, attractions and restaurants can play a critical role in providing information about things to do and events and activities taking place each week. We also heard about the growing need for new partnerships. Industry partners want to connect with each other to create marketing packages and new products that draw new visitors to the region. Rural partners want to make sure they have a seat at the table. Organizations and attractions are seeking new ways to work together to mutually grow.
John Groh RACVB
Creating and Capitalizing on Opportunity The recent economic challenges have led to innovative solutions and new opportunities. For example, Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Gardens sought to grow its customer base by adding regular dog walks, while Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Gardens found success hosting paranormal tours. These out-of-the-box ideas allowed the organizations to grow their exposure in different market segments, bringing in new clientele when they needed it most. Many groups found strength in numbers by developing new partnerships. Great Gardens Rockford jointly marketed the area’s gardens at regional consumer shows, while area arts organizations created Bike for the Arts (BART), a bicycle tour to raise funds and awareness for the arts community. Several attendees also raised the importance of being open to opportunities that arise. Whether it’s the chance to bring a casino to the Rockford Region or save a national treasure like the Laurent House, Rockford’s only Frank Lloyd Wright home, we need to recognize potential opportunities and take action so these possibilities don’t pass us by.
Looking Forward This is the third year RACVB has held community roundtables. We see these discussions as a key part of our planning process. These sessions allow us to hear from stakeholders and citizens and open doors for greater collaboration. While not every idea can be implemented, staff is working to identify and expand those that can help us efficiently grow tourism in the Rockford Region. If you would like to stay up to date on developments within our visitor industry, you can sign up for e-news updates by contacting kdecoster@gorockford.com. To receive our weekly “What’s Happening” email regarding events taking place in the Rockford Region each week, contact jjacobs@gorockford.com. You also can download our mobile application for your smart phone by visiting your app store and searching for Go Rockford. John Groh is president/CEO of the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. Contact him at jgroh@gorockford.com. The views expressed are those of Groh’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
theVoice rockfordchamber.com February 2012
The SwedishAmerican Regional Cancer Center’s close proximity to I-90 and the Riverside Boulevard exit aims to provide easy accessibility to local and regional patients.
SwedishAmerican announces plans for a free-standing cancer center New treatments to be offered based on latest research SwedishAmerican Health System entered into a partnership to build and operate a free-standing outpatient cancer center in collaboration with UW Health and nationally recognized University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center. The new SwedishAmerican Regional Cancer Center will be built on a 30-acre site on North Bell School Road in Rockford, acquired from Landmark Group. Free transportation services will be offered for local patients and families. Cancer center services will include medical oncology, chemotherapy and infusion; advanced radiation therapy, and medical imaging. Patients will have access to the latest clinical trials offered by the University of WisconsinMadison and a full complement of holistic and support services.
New Jobs Expected for the Community SwedishAmerican is preparing to secure state regulatory approval for the new center, which is projected for completion at the end of 2013. The economic impact is expected to include the creation of 300 construction jobs, and by the fourth year in operation, 104 full-time jobs, including healthcare providers and support staff. “We are very pleased to announce plans for the SwedishAmerican Regional Cancer Center, which will
The economic impact is expected to include the creation of 300 construction jobs, and by the fourth year in operation, 104 full-time jobs, including healthcare providers and support staff. benefit thousands of patients and families throughout northern Illinois on many levels,” said Dr. Bill Gorski, SwedishAmerican president and CEO. “More than just a new building, the center will provide convenient access to both SwedishAmerican and UW Carbone Cancer Center specialists, as well as advanced treatments.” “A comprehensive cancer center is a special place that brings together all kinds of resources for the care of patients,” said James Dechene, interim president of University Health Care. “At the UW Carbone Cancer Center, more than 280 physicians and scientists from many different disciplines work collaboratively to translate research discoveries into new treatments for cancer patients. We look forward to working collaboratively with SwedishAmerican and sharing our cancer expertise with patients from throughout the northern Illinois region.”
Let your Voice be heard The Rockford Chamber of Commerce elcomes and encourages submissions w for The VOICE of the Rockford Business Community. Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding publication. Send news releases and other items of interest to the business community to: The VOICE Rockford Chamber of Commerce 308 W. State St., Ste. 190 Rockford, IL 61101
For information about advertising contact Customer Service at 815-987-8100. The VOICE of the Rockford Business Community (USPS 784-120). ISSN number 1086-0630, is published monthly by the Rockford Chamber of Commerce, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, Illinois 61101. Periodicals postage paid at Rockford, Ill. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The VOICE of the Rockford Business Community, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, IL 61101.
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Join us for Go Global V: Putting the pieces together Go Global V, April 3 and 4 at Giovanni’s Restaurant and Convention Center in Rockford, is the Midwest’s premier international business conference, where leading experts from a variety of fields will deliver the information you need to put together the pieces of an effective global trade strategy. This annual event has grown into an international business conference. Whether you are looking to expand your distribution network or sell directly to end users, there are things that you should keep in mind that will help you in the process. Our high-caliber speakers will provide you with up-to-date legislation; walk you through the process of launching into the global market while identifying the various sources of trade, financial and legal assistance; and explore opportunities to partner and grow. Government decision makers, corporate executives, and marketing tool innovators engage in high-level dialogues about export issues such as financing, logistics, global marketing trends, and many other topics. We have brought in a host of well-respected individuals to help make the business case for export-readiness, including: Mike Allocca, Allocca Enterprises; Christopher S. Foltz, Christopher Foltz & Company; John Goodrich, JD Goodrich & Associates; Dan Ikenson, Cato’s Herbert A. Stiefel Center; Dr. Chris Kuehl, Director at Armada Corporate Intelligence; and, Sagar Patel,
Woodward - Aircraft Turbine Systems.
Learn How Businesses Have Moved Into Foreign Markets Regional business leaders will present case studies to introduce how their company is achieving success in penetrating foreign markets and staying competitive in the global market. Go Global V also will feature a Woodward Suppler Symposium, providing attendees with the opportunity to participate in B2B meetings with one of our region’s largest tier-one aerospace supplier. Businesses will have access to a targeted audience comprised of companies interested in engaging in or expanding their international trade. Last year’s conference attracted more than 150 attendees, hailing from 11 states. Representatives from more than 10 countries have attended the conference, seeking opportunities to increase bi-lateral trade. Primary industries represented include local manufacturing, aerospace, professional business services, government and logistics and transportation. More than 63 percent of attendees were recognized as decision makers for their organization. This event is a unique opportunity for companies to engage with businesses in the Rockford area that are seeking international trade growth opportunities. To register, visit www.goglobal-itc.com.
VOC survey reveals regional challenges, opportunities By Matthew Simpson, RAEDC Every year, the Rockford Area Economic Development Council reaches out to primary employers in the area to garner a better understanding of the experiences and expertise they have as members of the business community. This is done through our Voice of the Customer survey (VOC), which is a very important part of our Business Retention and Expansion efforts. In 2011, we were honored to have 125 companies participate in our VOC conversation – the most interviews we have conducted to date. We now are concluding data analysis for our 2011 VOC Executive Summary Report.
comb the database to pull information on expansion opportunities, workforce and any major observations noted. We also present “5 Key Learnings” from the information, highlighting five challenges/ opportunities that businesses emphasized most often during our conversations. The Executive Summary offers a look at company responses on community services (such as fire and police, schools, housing), and utility services as well. The VOC Executive Summary is intended to be a 30,000-ft. view of the findings from our VOC results. We will be conducting more specific analysis around topics such as workforce, and innovation (measured by reported R&D investment) Findings Presented in during the year. An electronic version of Executive Summary our annual summary can be found on the Our VOC Executive Summary is an RAEDC Web site; however, if you would overview of the results gathered from like an electronic copy feel free to email surveys during the previous year. We break me at MSimpson@RockfordIL.com. down our survey population by industry and company size to offer perspective on Matthew Simpson is business development our sample. Findings are aggregated (no specialist at the Rockford Area Economic company names are published), and we Development Council.
Juliet and Jason Beck say they are surprised at how fast their water balloon business has grown.
Wet Will-E Water Balloons: Difficult situations inspire ingenious solutions By Sherry Pritz, EIGERlab Everyone, from time-to-time, has an “aha” moment regarding an invention. Few act on them. But, while planning a party for his wife’s birthday, Jason Beck did just that. While filling 250 water balloons for his family to enjoy, his wife, Juliet, said, “I would pay someone to do this.” From that moment, Jason’s idea started to take shape. Starting in 2010, Wet Will-E Water Balloons (WWWB) sold less than 20,000 balloons. 2011 evolved into a banner year, starting with a second-place finish in the Stateline FastPitch Competition. Sales increased exponentially – totaling 80,000 – and WWWB also started to ship its products nationwide after developing a unique patent-pending packaging method. WWWB is a family-owned and operated business. Jason, his wife and their four children, ranging in age from five to 10, all are essential players. The kids enthusiastically assist with deliveries, proudly sport their WWWB temporary tattoos and are paid with milkshakes! They also speak of taking over the business after graduating from college.
Business Growth By Word of Mouth Customers love the service/ product and have assisted in spreading the word. One customer commented, “I think the swiftness of service is awesome. AND not to mention how WWWB came through in the clutch for my daughter’s party!!! You guys are AMAZINGLY
AWESOME!!!” In response to customers’ requests, birthday party packages include 100 water balloons, 15 decorative balloons and 15 WWWB temporary tattoos. With the combo package, customers receive a 300-yard balloon launcher and 300 water balloons! While they always have been confident in their idea, the Becks are shocked at the rapid development of their success. Like any other business, growth has been challenging. In 2011 they opened offices in Dallas and Houston, and had so much business they had to turn people away. However, over time they discovered that branch offices weren’t a good direction. The Becks’ second “a-ha” moment was using direct shipping, which assisted them in broadening their market with minimal overhead. Not unlike most entrepreneurs, they are interested in making a profit, but also in giving back. In the past two years, they have supported a number of children’s charities and causes such as Smile Train, which provides free corrective surgery for children with cleft lip and cleft palate, The Isaiah Alonzo Foundation, which works towards supporting families who have children diagnosed with cancer, and TOMS Shoes One Day Without Shoes. What’s next you ask? They currently are creating a Wet Will-E Water Balloon Battle app. for smartphones, and efforts are underway to install WWWB kiosks at family and party-related locations. Sherry Pritz is marketing coordinator at EIGERlab, Rock Valley College.
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Commerce Department releases roadmap for strengthening U.S. competitiveness The U.S. Department of Commerce delivered on Jan. 6 to Congress a comprehensive report, “The Competitiveness and Innovative Capacity of the United States,” to sustain and promote American innovation and economic competitiveness. The report makes these findings: Federal investments in research, education and infrastructure were critical building blocks for American economic competitiveness, business expansion and job creation in the last century. Failures to properly invest in, and have comprehensive strategies for, those areas have eroded America’s competitive position. The report was mandated as part of the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010, which was signed into law by President Obama in January last year. For the full report and more resources visit www.commerce. gov/competes.
“Our ability to innovate as a nation will determine what kind of economy—what kind of country—our children and grandchildren will inherit, and whether it’s a country that holds the same promise for them as it did for our parents and grandparents.” — John Bryson, U.S. Department of Commerce secretary 2009, manufacturing comprised 11.2 percent of GDP and 9.1 percent of total U.S. employment -- directly employing more than 11 million workers. It also is the biggest source of innovation in our economy. Sixty-seven percent of all the business R&D in America is done by manufacturing companies. The report addresses projects in support of American manufacturing, including creation of the White House Office of Manufacturing Policy, the Advanced Manufacturing Partnership (AMP), the Materials Genome Initiative, and the National Digital Engineering and Manufacturing Consortium.
Support for Manufacturing
Increased Federal Funding The report recognizes that a for Basic Research
flourishing U.S. manufacturing sector is crucial to competitive strength, economic growth and job creation, as well as in sustaining a strong middle class. In
While private citizens and businesses are the top source of new ideas, the government plays a key role in supporting and developing their innovations.
Federal seed money can be seen in the development of the Internet, satellite communications and semiconductors, and other job-creating advances. The report recommends federal funding be increased for basic research – universities and research centers and a tax credit be enhanced and extended for private-sector R&D to give companies appropriate incentives to innovate and improve the way basic research is transferred from the lab into commercial products.
Support of STEM Education The COMPETES report underscores the importance of education in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, fields in order to compete in the global economy. Women with STEM jobs earned 33 percent more than comparable women in non-STEM jobs. As a result, the
gender wage gap is smaller in STEM jobs than in non-STEM jobs. Ongoing and new administration initiatives are addressing these challenges by making college more affordable, spurring classroom innovation at all levels and expanding the size and quality of STEM teacher ranks.
Investment in Infrastructure in All Its Forms The report highlights the importance of federal government investment in an expansive modern electrical grid that provides robust broadband Internet access in both urban and rural communities. Presently, 68 percent of American households have adopted broadband, an almost eight-fold increase since 2001. Small and medium-sized enterprises have benefitted hugely from the Internet and created more than twice the number of jobs as firms not on the Web -- creating 2.6 jobs for each one eliminated. Efforts highlighted to build a 21st century infrastructure include the NextGen Air Traffic Control System, opening spectrum for wireless communication, creating smart grid standards and providing funding for road, rail and bridge projects across the country.
Safety is good business The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) states that establishing a safe and healthful working environment requires every employer, large and small, and every worker to make safety and health a top priority. The entire workforce, from the CEO to the most recent hire, must recognize that worker safety and health is central to the mission and key to the profitability of the American company. In 2011, OSHA celebrated its’ 40th year of operation. During those years, we have seen more and more enforcement. In 2010, OSHA revealed its’ Severe Violator Enforcement Program. “Now we are seeing a new fine structure that results in more severe penalties for violations cited. Case in point, last November a Mount Carroll company was fined over $200K for confined space violations and faced additional fines for other regulatory issues,” said John Vaughan, Rock Valley College, BPI trainer.
Listed below are the frequently cited violations and regulations focused on by OSHA. Do any of these pose a risk to your company and its employees?
2011 Most Frequently Cited Violations—Illinois n Haz/Com n Lockout Tagout n Respiratory Protection n Powered Industrial Trucks n Electrical Safety Violations OSHA has put extreme emphasis both regionally and nationally on specific safety regulations and they are as follows: Inspecting companies with highly hazardous chemical that fall under the Process Safety Management guidelines: n Dust issues that may result in explosion and or fire n Fall protection
n Noise n Lock-Out/Tag-Out n Haz/Com (number one cited violation) According to OSHA an effective safety and health program can save $4 to $6 for every $1 invested. It’s the right thing to do, and doing Bernie Luecke it right pays off in lower costs, RVC BPI increased productivity, and higher employer morale. For additional information contact the Business and Professional Institute. BPI offers customized Safety and OSHA training to meet your needs, including OSHA Ten Hour Safety training. If you need assistance with OSHA compliance and training, please contact Bernie at 815-921-2067 or b.luecke@rockvalleycollege.edu. Manufacturing Update is sponsored by Rock Valley College, BPI.
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PROFILE
Member Company Profile
Testors employs nearly 200 people in its Rockford office. (Right): Business is looking up at Testors since Charles Leichtweis became president of the company four years ago.
Still going strong For 82 years, Testors has made hobby and craft products right here in Rockford By Paul Anthony Arco Testor Corporation, a Rockford-based manufacturer of hobby and craft products, might just be the best-kept secret in town. “I hear that from people all the time, and I don’t know why,” said Testors President Charles Leichtweis. Testors produces hobby finishing materials, such as plastic model kits, craft paints and supplies — glues and airbrushes — which are sold around the world. For household use, Testors manufactures a variety of consumer goods, including water wash-up and enamel paints, airbrushes, and enamel paint markers for artists and crafters. “The brand name Testors, in the hobby category, is second to none,” said Leichtweis, who joined the company four years ago. Testors has nearly 200 employees in Rockford. Its parent company, RPM International Inc., is located in Medina, Ohio.
Adhesive for Women’s Stockings In 1929, Nils F. Testor purchased the small Rockford company, which was owned by Axel Karlson at the time. The company was known for making an adhesive product called “Karlson’s Klister,” which was used for mending women’s stockings. The business was later renamed Testor Chemical Company. Testors soon realized that the product would be helpful in a variety of applications and began to market the glue as “Crystal Clear Household Cement.” In 1936, the company became involved with the hobby industry and four years later became a founding member of the Hobby Industry of America. In 1944 a fire destroyed Testors’ main building, but Nils Testor rebuilt a larger facility. The company then began producing inexpensive flying airplanes, and the new Testors’ toy glider became an overnight success. In the 1960s, sales of Testors’ enamels, hobby cements, gliders and engines continued to rise and a series of paint-by-number kits became popular. A decade later, Testors bought IMC and
the Hawk Model Company, well-known manufacturers of plastic model kits.
Leveraging Core Strengths When Leichtweis took over, Testors was faced with challenges. “Some of the customers I talked to thought our products were great, and they wanted to buy from the company, but had slowed down their buying because the service level was not as good as it had been,” he said. “Our employees also wanted to see this company succeed. More than 40 percent of them have been here 10 years or more.” Testors began to upgrade its operations, including forecasting, inventory control and production planning, which significantly improved customer service. Another key was identifying product development opportunities. Testors has introduced nearly 75 new products since Leichtweis arrived. “We started leveraging our core strengths,” he said. The company also wanted to reach a younger audience. Leichtweis said people younger than 40 probably don’t know the Testors name. To help bridge the gap, the company created inclusive snap-together model gift kits with paint and brushes included. Testors has collaborated with suppliers and placed inventory directly into retail stores, such as Michael’s and Hobby Lobby. It has partnered with sister companies in the auto touch-up market and has placed limited products in WalMart stores for the first time in six years. Sales are up 22 percent through the first six months of the fiscal year. A member of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce since 1954, Testors also is involved in the local community, supporting a variety of organizations and local schools. Leichtweis said: “I believe a company and community are inseparable.”
Testor Corporation President: Charles Leichtweis 440 Blackhawk Park Ave. Rockford, IL 61104 815-962-6654 www.testors.com
theVoice rockfordchamber.com February 2012
Winnebago County CASA to celebrate 25 years By Barbara Connors The timing could not have been better for Winnebago County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) to win the Rockford Register Star’s coveted Excelsior Award, on Dec. 1, 2011 at Giovanni’s. The program, which advocates for abused and neglected children caught in the Winnebago County courts, is gearing to celebrate its quarter-century anniversary in June. This year Winnebago County CASA has a newly formed outreach team to offer presentations to organizations, churches and businesses on what CASA volunteers do for abused and neglected children. It’s expected that Juvenile Abuse & Neglect Court Judge Mary Linn Green will hear at least 1,400 cases this year, compared to the 1,200 cases heard the past couple of years.
Winnebago County CASA Seeks Volunteers Winnebago County CASA, which currently is responsible for the lives of more than 350 area children, began in 1986 as a project by the Junior League of Rockford and the late Winnebago County Court Judge Bradner Riggs. The program since then has grown to include more than 135 trained and court-appointed volunteers, whose involvement in cases served more than 450 children last year; seeking to provide them ultimately with a safe, permanent home. The program currently is seeking new advocate volunteers from all walks of life. To qualify, volunteers participate in 10 training sessions, two to three days per week, amounting to about 35 training hours. Upon completion of training and appointment to the court, a CASA is assigned the case of a child, generally from infant to 18 years old, and gathers information for the court by talking with the child and anyone involved in the child’s life -- parents, foster parents, teachers, school counselors, agency caseworkers, doctors and therapists.
The CASA also visits the home where the child is placed. After gathering information, the CASA recommends to the judge in the Juvenile Abuse & Neglect Court what the child needs, with the goal of finding a safe, permanent home. A CASA has an attorney who represents him or her in court, but may address the court directly if he or she feels his or her point is not being made. The judge places a great deal of emphasis and importance on the information the CASA presents. Cases last on average two years, which is why a two-year commitment is required. In some situations, cases last only a few months. Other cases can continue for three or even more years. The average number of volunteer hours is 10 to 12 per month.
Solely What’s Best for the Child A CASA is important as an impartial spokesperson for the child as the court makes decisions that affect the child’s future. Other parties in the case often are concerned about the child, but have other mandates or interests as well. The CASA’s sole concern is for the best interests of the child. An abused or neglected child represented by a CASA comes from a world of chaos and instability. He or she experiences many fears: the fear of being hurt, the fear of being alone, the fear about the future. For the child removed from the home, his or her life is uprooted by changes in school and other stabilizing influences. The CASA may be the only source of stability and the one constant in the child’s life. Winnebago County CASA is part of a nationwide network that has served more than 240,000 abused and neglected children through its 954 program offices. Volunteers have helped more than two million abused children break the cycle of abuse since 1977. For more information on Winnebago County CASA or becoming a volunteer advocate, visit winnebagocountycasa. org or contact casaoffice@wincoil.us or 815-319-6880.
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IGNITE
Young Professionals
IGNITE welcomes new executive director, Jazzminne Keyes
Jazzminne Keyes IGNITE
Hello Rockford YPs! I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself. My name is Jazzminne Keyes, the new executive director of IGNITE. After a strenuous interviewing process and weeks of waiting in anticipation for the decision, I proudly assumed my role on Tuesday, Jan. 3. While things have been busy, chaotic and exhausting, I honestly can say I wake up every day excited to go to work. I made the decision to apply for this position because I believe in the mission of IGNITE and am confident that IGNITE is precisely what the greater Rockford region needs. The IGNITE young professionals program has the potential to excite the greater Rockford area. It is essential to our community to have an organization that actively engages young professionals. IGNITE must commit to continuing to furnish services that encourage young professionals to gravitate to this region for employment, education and entertainment.
Professional Development, Community Involvement As executive director, I plan to concentrate my attention on driving membership, increasing professional development opportunities for members, community involvement, membership programming and events, and improving current marketing and communication methods. I have an extraordinary record of serving clients, increasing organizational efficiencies, building and retaining board members, and financial competence. Over the past 10 years, I have been heavily involved in several community
organizations and programs and currently act as the vice-president of Beautiful Spirited Women, a teen mentoring program. With a degree in organizational and corporate communications from Northern Illinois University, and more than eight years of experience in sales, I believe I will prove to be the perfect candidate for the position. My success in sales and marketing coupled with my proven methods for program development will surely be an asset to Ignite.
Thanks for the Support in Transition I would like to give a special thank you to the past executive director, Caitlin Ludwig, for providing unlimited assistance to me as I transition into my new position. You have done an astounding job with this organization and should be very proud. Special thank you to the leadership team for being a crucial instrument in helping me adjust. To all those who picked up the slack while IGNITE searched for a new director, your labor is not in vain. I believe I speak for all members when I say, you all are greatly appreciated. I have an amazing team of YPs backing me and am excited to grow this organization to its full potential! There are several new projects and events I will be working diligently to roll out over in 2012. Get ready for an electrifying year! For any questions, comments, concerns or ideas, please feel free to email me at jazz@igniterockford.com. Jazzminne Keyes is executive director of IGNITE.
February 2012 theVoice rockfordchamber.com
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Issues to Watch LEGISLATIVE UPDATE More than 200 new Illinois laws in effect
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January 1 was more than a day for food, celebration and football in Illinois — 214 new laws went into effect, covering everything from local library boards to murder. Notable laws in effect give citizens greater access to government information through the Internet, encourage the use of alternative energy sources, reduce regulations for home-based food businesses, and allow motorcyclists to proceed through a red light if the tripping device fails to turn the light green after a reasonable time. Other new laws aim to close loopholes and crack down on criminal offenders, including “Andrea’s Law,” which better tracks persons convicted of murder once released from prison; impose tougher penalties for child pornography; and provide more tools to prosecute persons who attempt to lure children for sexual purposes. One new law prohibits shining a laser light into a cockpit when a plane is taking off or landing; and another establishes new penalties for selling manufactured substances know as synthetic cannabinoids, which produce a “high” similar to marijuana. Citizens now will be able to access Hospital Report Cards from the state Department of Public Health Web site, as well as information about income, sales, property and business taxes imposed across the state through the Department of Revenue’s Web site. To encourage alternative energy and energy conservation, a new law allows the state’s transportation department to issue permits to those wishing to grow switchgrass on state right-of-ways, and another seeks to promote rain water conservation, composting and wind energy. The following are a few of the laws impacting businesses and transportation:
Laws Impacting Businesses Cottage Food Deregulation. Allows for deregulation at the local level of cottage food operations, so only “State-certified local public health departments” would be permitted to regulate cottage food operation. Cottage food operations are those where a person produces or packages non-potentially hazardous food in a home kitchen. (SB 840/PA 97-0393) Debt Collection. Allows employers to deduct wages without the employee’s consent in order to collect a debt owed to a municipality or to recoup excess money paid by a municipality in error. (HB 1513/PA 97-0120) Equal Pay Act. Provides for civil penalties of up to $5,000 when an employer interferes with an employee’s attempt to exercise a right granted to them by the Equal Pay Act. (SB 115/PA 97-0512) Minimum Wage Penalties. Increases penalties for contractors, subcontractors and public body employees who do not comply with minimum wage requirements. (HB 3237/PA 97-0571) Pyrotechnics Regulations. Updates the laws regarding the use of pyrotechnics in the musical entertainment industry. Adds provisions concerning exemptions, licensure, qualifications, unlicensed activity, discipline and reporting accidents or incidents. Makes changes to provisions concerning scope, storage certificates, storage requirements, unlicensed activity, nonresidents, recordkeeping, hearings and criminal penalties. (HB 711/PA 97-0164) Rebate Disclosures. Requires any business or person who offers a retail rebate to consumers to clarify what rebate the consumer can expect to receive by disclosing the type
of rebate being offered, whether additional fees may apply, and the form of remittance that will be provided to the consumer. (HB 3406/ PA 97-0308) Vending Machine. Eliminates the current mandate that retailers submit an annual report detailing the number of vending machines used in their business. Instead, puts the burden on the Dept. of Revenue to request the information if needed. Also requires a retailer to request an additional subcertificate or sub-certificates if he or she increases the number of vending machines used in the business. (HB 2991/PA 97-0335)
Transportation Laws Motorcycle Red Lights. Allows motorcyclists stopped at a red light to proceed through the light if, after waiting a reasonable length of time, the red light fails to change to green. Governor Quinn issued an amendatory veto to change the language of the measure, however both the House and Senate overrode his changes, and the bill became law as originally passed. (HB 2860/PA 097-0627) Large Truck Speed Limit. Extends the uniform speed limit that currently exists for Interstate highways to include four-lane divided highways. Provides that outside the counties of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will, the speed limit for trucks is uniform with cars, or 65 mph, on fourlane divided highways. (SB 1913/PA 97-0202) Seat Belts. Requires adult passengers in the back seat of a vehicle to wear a seat belt. It also requires those 18 and younger riding in a taxi cab for schoolrelated purposes to wear a seat belt. (HB 219/PA 97-0016) For more details, visit www.ilga.gov. Sources: National Labor Relations Board, Illinois Senate Republicans
theVoice rockfordchamber.com February 2012
FOCUS ON EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
Guest Perspective INSIGHT
STEM education:
Your child’s connection to the future Across our country, schools are attempting to embrace a movement that has the potential to refocus education and give new direction to students who have to compete for jobs in an everchanging world. This movement is Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics education, represented by the acronym STEM.
“Students cannot afford to face the challenge of competing in a workforce where there is an increasing demand for skills not mastered in the school setting.” Educators and businesses alike grasp the fact that, more than ever, students need to be readied for a world where many future jobs have not yet been created. Students need to be able to have a skill set that will enable them to apply learning and integrate skills in a world of increasing complexity. Each new innovation has the ability to greatly increase our work productivity. As the Industrial Age had a dramatic impact on our agricultural economy, the potential impact of the “Digital Technology” Age on our present and future world is immense. The Executive Summary of A Framework for K-12 Science Education: Practices, Crosscutting Concepts and Core Ideas states, “Science, engineering, and technology permeate nearly every facet of modern life, and they also hold the key to meeting many of humanities’ most pressing current and future challenges.”
Crossing Boundaries The challenge for educators is adapting both the technical aspects of the digital world and helping students maximize their potential by understanding how to collaborate these important disciplines. Since the publication of the article, Rising Above the Gathering Storm: Energizing and Employing America for a Brighter Future (National Academies Press, 2005), many educators have become aware of the increasing need to bring a new dynamic to education. The crossing of boundaries between these disciplines enables new teaching strategies. The article points out that
Randy Taylor Rockford Christian Schools
the results of a congressional report on the subject led to an initiative to increase the quality of K-12 math and science education, revisit our nation’s commitment to research, develop and retain top students, and drive home the point that the United States is a premier place that fosters innovation. As educators, we must face the fact that education has remained highly departmentalized. This is unlike the real world, where many disciplines are used to complete daily tasks. Departmentalization often unwittingly leads students to a disjointed thinking process where learning does not foster the ability to understand how the knowledge learned has a practical application in life. Movements such as STEM enable students to view disciplines that are interrelated in a practical manner. As students learn how disciplines relate to one another, more sense is made of the learning process.
Teaching Students to be Problem Solvers All these goals will only be accomplished if we educate teachers to use cross-curricular methods to benefit students. Students cannot afford to face the challenge of competing in a workforce where there is an increasing demand for skills not mastered in the school setting. Morrison (2006), a leader in the study of and implementation of STEM education, identified goals for these students, which would ready them for their role in this world. She said “students should be problem solvers, innovators, inventors, self-reliant, logical thinkers and technologically literate.” For years, national standards have agreed on these areas. The real challenge for schools is in their implementation. In order to accomplish these goals, we must continue the discussion of what we need to modify as we look to the design of a student’s day, and determine by design, not default, what is valuable to their education and future. Randy Taylor, Rockford Christian Schools, has been in the education field as a teacher, principal and superintendent since 1980. The views expressed are those of Taylor’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
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February 2012 theVoice rockfordchamber.com
FOCUS ON EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
Guest Perspective INSIGHT
To educate or to train? That is the question
New state recycling act bans e-waste from landfills
Local organizations help residents recycle An amendment to the Electronic Products Recycling and Reuse Act went into effect in January in Illinois, banning virtually all e-waste from landfills, including computers, monitors, televisions and printers. Other electronics banned include keyboards, portable music devices, scanners and video game consoles. To help, Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful will conduct its Metals & Electronics drive twice this year to collect and recycle e-waste free of charge. A fee will be assessed for removal of freon from certain appliances. The next planned Metals & Electronics drive is Saturday, May 5. The organization also will take cell phones at its Roscoe Recycling Center on Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon. Visit www.knib.org. To comply with the Illinois environmental act, Illinois Growth Enterprises (IGE) and Rockford Computers for Schools (RCFS) have expanded their electronics recycling operations and will accept old
computers and cell phones at 7200 Clinton Road in Loves Park. Residents can drop off equipment, Mondays - Fridays, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and Saturdays, from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Items accepted include cell phones, Li-ion, Ni-Cad, Ni-Mh batteries, working and non-working desktop computers and laptops, monitors (CRT and flat panels), printers, scanners, speakers, software, and other related peripherals. RCFS volunteers will wipe hard drives and install programs before repurposing computers for schools, non-profits, and disadvantaged schoolage youth. People with disabilities employed by IGE will disassemble obsolete computer equipment for responsible recycling. RCFS since its inception has repurposed more 6,500 computer systems for the community. In 2011, more than 83 tons of computer equipment was diverted from the landfill. For more information, call IGE at 815-962-8333 or RCFS at 815316-4580.
Although the words sometimes are mistakenly used interchangeably, there is a difference between education and training. I believe that the simplest distinction involves two elements. First, education is more process, while training is more procedure. Second, education tends to be more strategic, while training tends to be more tactical. Let me briefly explain, and then conclude by sharing with you why understanding the distinction is important to your organization.
Big Picture Versus Particular Problem Approach When one is educated, he focuses on why something is done, and is provided examples to drive it home. There is no expectation that a situation will arise exactly mirroring the example he was provided. Instead, he should be able to extrapolate from what he learned to make a meaningful contribution, decision or whatever. With training, the expectation is that this learning will apply very closely, if not exactly, to what the individual will face in the future. When one is educated, he is encouraged to step back and look at the bigger picture. With training, there is more of a fix-this-particular-problem approach. It’s somewhat like the difference between building a railway system, as opposed to building the track between two of the stations. Well, maybe that is a bit of an oversimplification, but it should be in the neighborhood, so to speak.
Matching Team Actions with Company Vision Why understand the distinction? [Note: This applies whether it is for your company, your team or yourself.] Being able to effectively see both the forest and the trees maximizes your value. What a shame when an entity’s vision and
Dr. Tom Berliner mission are Judson University not consistent with what team members are doing. As you develop your employees, your team and yourself, be sufficiently visionary to have a game plan for both education and training. Without education, there will be a serious constriction on growth. One of the main reasons will be because innovation will be stymied. Without training, you won’t get the more-immediate boosts in productivity. You need to work toward both, not just one.
Formula Different for Everyone Don’t decide on education or training simply because someone or something brings it to your attention. Make it a proactive, considered process. Allow for discussion of pros and cons. Allow time to process your thinking. Understand that there is no one formula for all. What you need will be unique to you and your situation. You can’t look at an advertisement and derive the magic potion. Each snowflake is only one of a kind. Your circumstances are as well. I hope that this helps. Working as one, we can envision and achieve incredible things in the Rockford area. In order to do this, we have to become active members in the Rockford Chamber. I encourage you to do so. I would love to get your thoughts, whether or not they are in agreement with mine. Please contact me at tberliner@judsonu.edu or at 847-628-1520. I look forward to hearing from you. Dr. Tom Berliner is dean of Judson University’s School of Leadership and Business. The views expressed are those of Dr. Berliner’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
theVoice rockfordchamber.com February 2012
FOCUS ON EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
Guest Perspective INSIGHT
Prioritizing our time in 2012
Is it ever okay to say ‘no?’ At the first of the year, the demands on us take more and more of our time. New Year’s Resolutions and goals for the year press on us to make decisions on how we will spend our time. The question is: What will we choose to eliminate, and then add, to our daily and weekly routine? I believe this can be a very difficult decision. Yes, it’s true, sometimes it’s obvious what we need to eliminate and add in its place. For example, excessive amounts of television can be replaced by exercise, reading a book or spending time with family.
A Lesson from a Boy on the Beach Other times it may not be such an easy decision. For example, a part-time job to help reduce debt, or spending time three nights a week with family. An opportunity to work on a new project, not only to increase cash flow, but to show you are a team player, but that may not come without cost to your emotional and spiritual life. How do you know when to say “no”? I recently heard a story that may give us some direction. There was a young family walking on the
Kevin Polky KP Counseling, Inc.
beach collecting shells. The young boys were filling their hands with whole and broken shells. Even the broken ones were treasures. As they walked on the beach, the oldest boy saw something floating in the ocean. He ran into the water. As he got closer, he could clearly see the most prized treasure. The boy’s family yelling, “You can do it. It’s right there. Grab it.” But, with frustration he ran back to the shore and then back to the water, getting even closer to the prize. With utter despair, the boy returned to the shoreline. His father asked what was wrong. The boy exclaimed, “I cannot grab the starfish because my hands are full of shells!” How is that like our life, our hands filled with what we believe is a treasure, only to be unable to grab our true treasure? Are your decisions to say “yes” helping you with your decisions to say “no”? Kevin Polky, CADC, LCSW, is president of KP Counseling, Inc. The views expressed are those of Polky’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
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February 2012 theVoice rockfordchamber.com
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Education impacts work-life earnings more than other factors According to a new U.S. Census Bureau study, education levels had more effect on earnings over a 40-year span in the workforce than any other demographic factor, such as gender, race and Hispanic origin. The estimated impact on annual earnings between a professional degree and an eighth-grade education was about $72,000 a year, roughly five times the impact of gender, which was $13,000. Overall, white males had higher earnings than any other group at every education level, with the exception of those with a master’s degree, which was topped by Asian males, and those with a professional degree, where Asian males were not significantly different from white males. In general, women in the most economically advantaged race groups usually earn less than men in the most disadvantaged race groups. A white female with master’s degree is expected to earn $2.4 million over a 40-year work-life. A Hispanic male with a master’s degree is expected to earn $2.8 million. For Asian, black and Hispanic groups whose highest education completed is high school, the difference between each group’s work-life earnings was not large compared with the differences between these groups with higher levels of education. Asian men and women with a bachelor’s degree or higher had greater returns on higher education than blacks or Hispanics of either gender. An Asian female with a professional degree made $3.7 million in work-life earnings compared with $2.3 million for a Hispanic female with a professional degree. Naturalized citizens saw a small yearly increase in earnings over the native-born population ($1,210), but those who were not citizens made $2,446 less a year than the native-born.
Guest Perspective INSIGHT
Mergers and acquisitions activity picking back up in 2012 Environment is ripe for successful accretion Listening to the “gloom and doom” prognosticators lately, one might assume that all businesses are suffering. In fact, during 2011, the number of mergers and acquisitions in the United States rose 2.5 percent from 2010, making it the busiest year since 2008. Economic indicators point toward M&A activity continuing to rise in 2012. Good news? Definitely. This uptick in activity is significant because while the economic environment is alive and well for successful accretion, several factors have kept business owners from pursuing a merger or acquisition.
Key Factors Before 2007, Reno & Zahm law firm would typically see seven or eight mergers and acquisitions a year. While M&A is trending upward nationally, in the last three years there have been only a few significant transactions each year. Savvy business owners know that a down market can be the right environment for a merger or acquisition and a way to provide the best long-term return on investment. So what is keeping business owners from taking that step? It’s simple: economic uncertainty. The recent volatile U.S. (and world) economy has caused reluctance among business owners to take advantage of the opportunity to grow through M&A. Many business owners are uncertain about the costs to hire and retain employees, the tax structure going forward, and whether the current administration and Congress will be able to stabilize the tax platform. Another factor keeping business owners from contemplating a merger or acquisition is tightened lending standards. Despite the fact that interest rates are at a historic low, lenders are requiring a greater down payment, which affects the amount of return a potential acquirer can expect to receive. Often, news media “fan the flames” of (actual or perceived) economic miseries by offering criticisms of companies
considering M&A, especially in a down economy, because of the unemployment it may create through the consolidation of companies and streamlining of operations. Business owners need to consider this potential adverse result along with the advantages of a desirable M&A opportunity. Additionally, there is the “Black Swan” effect. Coined by Nassim Taleb in his 2007 bestselling book, a Black Swan is an unexpected major occurrence that generates a tremendous impact. Events like 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, the collapse of Lehman Brothers and the 2011 earthquake in Japan all can be categorized as Black Swan events that resulted in significant business and financial risk for companies. For example, the earthquake in Japan led to automobile parts shortages in North America, and the effects still are being felt nearly a year later. It is no longer a question of whether a Black Swan event will occur, but when and how, and business owners have become increasingly more cautious.
Opportunity for Growth The fact remains that opportunity for growth lies within mergers and acquisitions. M&A is attractive to business owners looking to expand for several reasons. First, it may eliminate a competitor. Second, it’s an opportunity to spread costs, and third, it can expand the acquiring company’s customer base. Business owners contemplating expansion must measure what will provide the greatest return on investment. At current rates, putting excess capital into a money market, CD or Treasury bills will yield only a poor rate of return, and investing in the stock market has always – and continues to – involved substantial risk. Deploying excess capital into an M&A transaction may produce a much higher rate of return and meet the overall business expectations of the business owner.
Is It Time to Merge?
Jack D. Ward Reno & Zahm
To ensure a successful merger or acquisition, business owners should consider the following: First, and very simply, do you want to be a buyer or a seller? This is an important question to help you establish your long-term goals and determine if the time is right to acquire a competitor and strengthen your market position, or if the time is right to sell. After this is determined, continue to ask yourself the following questions before moving forward. Does your company have redundant resources? Does your company have more working capital than what is needed? Is your company making money to the point that it is critical to diversify? Are you in an industry that is worth investing in further? What is the potential for a Black Swan event? Understanding your market and evaluating future growth is critical in determining whether or not your company is strategically ready for a merger or acquisition. Lastly, as a buyer, are you considering merging horizontally with a competitor, or vertically with a supplier? Your decision model should be based on which type of acquisition will improve your return on capital. Despite the potential hurdles, business owners considering expansion should think about M&A as a viable option for their company’s growth and future success. While the low-hanging fruit might be harder to reach in these cases, the underlying principles that make expansion through M&A possible still are present. Jack D. Ward is a partner with Reno & Zahm, where he has practiced for more than 30 years. The views expressed are those of Ward’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
theVoice rockfordchamber.com February 2012
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Rockford College PERSPECTIVE
Celebrating 165 years with a focus on the future Preparing students for the changing world Dr. Robert L. Head Rockford College
Rockford College celebrates its 165th year in February during its annual Charter Day Convocation on Feb. 29. The formal ceremony is a long-held tradition. Each year we look forward to recognizing the 1847 signing of the college charter. This year holds special significance, as it marks the successful end of Project 165, a yearlong initiative that marked our legacy, helped build awareness of our recent successes and viability, and provided $1.6 million in capital improvements to the 50-year-old campus. This is the first 165th birthday in Rockford, and Rockford College has been proud of its special place as a leader and shaper of the community. Rockford College has been a quiet leader (perhaps too quiet), from our pioneering work in providing education for women and working adults, to our current work in providing leadership training for the likes of District 205, Sundstrand and Woodward; and has remained flexible and progressive.
Adapting to a Changing World So much has changed in the past 165 years. In 1847, Rockford was just a village, not yet incorporated. Residents then couldn’t possibly have imagined a world where you would hop into vehicle, plot your course on a screen, be guided by voice to your destination, while simultaneously listening to your favorite satellite station and carrying on a conversation via your Bluetooth device with your brother 2,000 miles away. Similarly, we can’t fathom what life will be like for our great-great grandchildren and their children 165 years from now. A video on YouTube, first shown at a Sony executive conference in 2010, provides startling information about the speed of change to come and a glimpse of challenges we face in preparing for the future. Some of the data shared included: n Of the top 10 currently most sought-after jobs, none existed in 2004. n One in four workers today has been in his or her current job less than one year. n Sony researchers believe that in Shakespeare’s time, there were fewer than 30,000 words in the English language. Today there are roughly 540,000 words in the English language.
n The amount of technical information is doubling now every year. n The U.S. Department of Labor estimates that an individual will have 10 to 14 jobs before the age of 38. This brief list highlights the importance of giving our students a strong educational foundation from which they can adapt to our changing world. At Rockford College, ours is an approach that provides a broad-based exposure to the arts and sciences — all grounded in a curriculum that creates leaders and problem solvers.
Alumni Have Made a Local Impact The fruits of this comprehensive, flexible approach are evident. We have more than 14,000 current alumni who are exemplary leaders and shapers of the communities in which they live. Advances in science through the creation of the LED and fiber optics have come at the hands of a RC alumnus. The use of ACE inhibitors for the prevention of second heart attacks was discovered by two RC alumni. From the grassroots to the board room, Rockford College alumni have change our world and have been doing so for 165 years. Forty-three percent of alumni live within 30 miles of Rockford and add immeasurable value to our quality of life. Whether native to Rockford or here because of our college, they are teachers, scientists, leaders of industry, caregivers and advocates for those in need. They are our neighbors. A short list includes Brent Johnson, owner of Midwest Aero Support; Jane Nappi Snively, director of Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden; Shelton Kay, director of community services for Crusader Community Health; Dr. Glenn Netto, physician and professor at the University of Illinois College of Medicine; Nathan Howard, president of William Charles; John Hegel, president and CEO of Minarik Drives; Julie O’Rourke, senior vice president and chief investment officer for Alpine Bank; Cathy McDermott, administrator of the Rock River Development Partnership and manager of the Downtown Entrepreneur Project, and Mike Broski, president of Entre Computer Solutions.
Preparing Graduates for Their Dreams We are pleased that this year’s Charter Day address will be given by alumnus and trustee of the college, Sunil Puri, ’82. Sunil, born in Bombay, India, immigrated to the United States in 1979 to attend Rockford College, where he graduated with a B.S. in accounting. During a recent career day event at the college, Sunil shared with a group of more than 200 local high-school students that he didn’t necessarily understand or agree at the time with his advisors, who said he had to take courses beyond his accounting curriculum to fulfill his liberal arts requirements. He took courses like dance and political science 101, and now looking back with 30 years of experience and hindsight, those extra
classes challenged his thinking and further rounded out his educational experiences and had an immeasurable and lasting impact on his many future successes. They no doubt helped prepare him to succeed in ways he had not yet imagined as a graduate in 1982. Far more than teaching our students mere subject matter, we at Rockford College empower and prepare our graduates to accomplish their dreams. We look forward with excitement for all that is yet to come for our students, this college and our region. Robert L. Head, Ph.D., is the 17th president of Rockford College. The views expressed are those of Dr. Head’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
theVoice rockfordchamber.com February 2012
Guest Perspective INSIGHT
Combating repetitive injuries on the job Injuries come in a wide range: from big auto accidents, to falls, to repetitive stress injuries. Many repetitive stress injuries often are overlooked because they lack a preceding “accident.” These repetitive injuries often take time to develop, however they can become very problematic. Ergonomics and posture are two key components to help prevent repetitive injuries for those with office jobs. A majority of office jobs involve using a computer for a good percentage of the day. Improving the ergonomics of a workstation and maintaining an appropriate posture will limit the amount of stress on your body. Ergonomics at a computer station should include basics like: • The top of the monitor at eye level and directly in front of the keyboard, • Using an adjustable chair with arm rests and low back support, • Keeping your forearms and wrists at the same level for typing, • Having the mouse next to the keyboard to limit reaching. A detailed analysis of a work environment always can be done by an occupational therapist who specializes in ergonomics.
Are You in Proper Alignment? Poor posture is another factor that can lead to excessive stress to the body, specifically the spine and shoulders. Computer-based jobs require too much sitting, and our spines are not designed to be in a seated position, especially for extended periods. We have a saying: “Sitting is to your spine what sugar is to your teeth.” It creates an unnatural stress load to the low back and pelvic joints. The best way to help with excessive sitting is to either have standing workstations or at minimum stand up every 20 minutes to stretch and move around. This prevents the muscles of your spine from becoming de-conditioned when seated for long periods. A chair with good lumbar support also is crucial. Forward Head Posture (FHP) is a postural distortion that presents with rounded shoulders and a head that juts forward. FHP can negatively impact the spinal joints of the neck and upper back, which may lead to neck pain/stiffness, headaches or numbness and tingling into the arms, hands and fingers. Every inch the head moves forward from a neutral position, adds about 10 pounds of stress and tension to the muscles and ligaments of the neck and upper back. Longstanding postural distortions (from being on a computer too long) can develop into what is called Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS). UCS is a combination of muscle groups that are either excessively tight or extremely weak. The tight muscles cause the shoulders
to roll forward Dr. Cory Thiele (rounded Hulsebus Rockford shoulders) and Chiropractic also create tension at the upper neck and base of the skull (many will get headaches that start in this area). The overly weak muscles are at the front of the neck and at the lower shoulder blades. Correcting the UCS requires strengthening the weak muscle groups and stretching the tight ones.
Strike a Pose One exercise that is helpful during the workday is to raise your arms in a “field goal pose” (arms level with the ground and forearms straight up). From this position, slowly bring your elbows down toward your side as you squeeze the tips of your shoulder blades DOWN and IN toward your spine. Squeeze and hold for approximately 20 seconds, release and repeat three or four times. This is only the start of correcting the UCS, but it is a good way to help rejuvenate the muscles during the workday. Consulting a chiropractor, physical therapist or fitness trainer who is knowledgeable about UCS is suggested for an appropriate evaluation and to establish an exercise program.
Proper Alignment While Lifting Other tasks that can create injuries on the job are those that require large amounts of lifting or those that create repetitive movements. Improving core strength and learning appropriate lifting techniques will go a long way in preventing low back injury. Simple techniques like lifting with your legs, keeping the weight close to your body, and not rotating while lifting are great starting points. The phrase, “If you move your nose, move your toes,” will help you remember not to rotate while lifting. Using a low back brace also can be helpful for those who lift heavy items throughout the day. Jobs with repetitive movements, such as manufacturing or assembly line work, should be changed up whenever possible. This may involve rotating between different stations or switching sides so that the worker is not doing the same movement or using the same arm/hand repeatedly. Periodic breaks to stretch out also are beneficial. Incorporating some of these simple ergonomic and fitness tips can help create a happier and safer work environment. Dr. Cory Thiele, D.C., practices at Hulsebus Rockford Chiropractic and is the Rockford IceHogs team chiropractor. The views expressed are those of Dr. Thiele’s and do not necessarily reflect those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
FOCUS ON SPORTS & FITNESS
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February 2012 theVoice rockfordchamber.com
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Member Category of the Month Regional, National Indicators MEMBERSHIP THE ECONOMY The following is a listing of Rockford Chamber members highlighted in a specific industry.
banK, banKinG associaTions Alpine Bank Associated Bank Blackhawk Bank BMO Harris Bank N.A. Byron Bank Community Bank of Rockford, a Division of The Harvard State Bank Fifth Third Bank First National Bank and Trust Co.– 300 E. Main St., Rockton First National Bank and Trust Co.— 5360 Bridge St., Roscoe Holcomb State Bank J.P. Morgan Chase Bank, N.A. Midwest Community Bank Northwest Bank of Rockford P.N.C Bank Riverside Community Bank Rockford Bank & Trust Co.— 4571 Guilford Road Rockford Bank & Trust Co.— Wyman St. Rockford Tech-Systems, Inc. Stillman Bank U.S. Bank—1107 E. State St. U.S. Bank—850 N. Church St. U.S. Bank—6940 Villagreen View Union Savings Bank
cREdiT unions Credit Union 1 First Northern Credit Union Heritage Credit Union MembersAlliance Credit Union Rock Valley Federal Credit Union Rockford Bell Credit Union Winnebago County Schools Credit Union
FinanciaL cash FLow sERVicEs
FinanciaL pLanninG, consuLTanTs, inVEsTmEnTs Ameriprise Financial— 6870 Rote Road, Ste. 102 Ameriprise Financial— 6735 Vistagreen Way, Ste. 110 Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.— 363 Financial Court CYRS Wealth Advisors LLC Focus Financial Advisors, Inc. Klaas Financial, Inc., Klaas Financial Asset Advisors, LLC, Registered Investment Advisor Mainstreet Financial Group Merrill Lynch Morgan Stanley Smith Barney Johnson-Thacker Group Morgan Stanley Smith Barney PCMW Group Pathfinder Wealth Management, Inc. Raymond James Associates Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated Savant Capital Management Upstream Investment Partners Voyager Capital Management Union Savings Bank Vision Mortgage Group
U.S. Indicators December, 2011 Consumer Price Index
0.1 percent
Unemployment Rate
8.5 percent
Payroll Employment
200,000
Average Hourly Earnings
$0.04
Producer Price Index
0.1 percent
Employment Cost Index
0.3 percent (third quarter, 2011)
Productivity
2.3 percent (third quarter, 2011)
U.S. Import Price Index
0.1 percent
U.S. Export Price Index
0.5 percent
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Unemployment Rates—Region, State, Nation Nov 2011
Oct 2011
Nov 2010
Change/Mo. Change/Yr.
Rockford
11.9
12.6
13.3
0.7
1.4
Chicago
9.8
9.7
8.9
0.1
0.9
Illinois
9.4
9.5
9.1
0.1
0.3
FinanciaL sERVicEs
United States
8.2
8.5
9.3
0.3
1.1
Midland Financial Strategies Springleaf Financial Services World Financial Group
Source: U.S. Department of Employment Security, Nov. 23, 2011
payRoLL, sERVicEs Market Dimensions, Inc. Paychex, Inc. Van Sickle & McLaughlin, CPAs
pEnsion, pRoFiT shaRinG Pension Specialists, Ltd.
J.M.B. Business Funding
Midwest Manufacturing Output Decreased The Chicago Fed Midwest Manufacturing Index (CFMMI) decreased 0.1 percent in November, to a seasonally adjusted level of 85.8 (2007 = 100). Regional output in November rose 7.1 percent from a year earlier, and national output increased 4.2 percent. Updated Dec. 27, 2011 Monthly Index
Member-to-member Loyalty Card Cut out and write your company name on the card below. Give it to the member you are doing business with to show your support of member-to-member business.
% Change
Sep 11
Oct 11
Nov 11
Nov 10 - Nov 11
Chicago Mfg. Index
85.0
85.9
85.8
CFMMI-Auto
77.2
79.3
79.5
13.5
CFMMI-Steel
82.1
81.9
83.1
14.3
CFMMI-Machinery
84.7
85.4
85.1
10.3
CFMMI-Resource
90.9
91.6
90.8
0.5
National Index
92.2
92.6
92.4
4.2
7.1
Source: Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago
Population Clocks Jan. 18, 2012 U.S.
312,872,979 World 6,988,673,202 The U.S. Census Bureau projected that the combination of births, deaths and net international migration will result in an increase in the total U.S. population of one person every 17 seconds. Source: U.S. Census Bureau
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Business Briefs BUSINESS BRIEFS Rockford College is included in the top 20 percent of colleges and universities in the United States to embrace America’s military service members and veterans as students, according to the 2012 list of Military Friendly Schools®, published by G.I. Jobs magazine.
Charter Fitness collected more than 5,000 toys during its fifth-annual toy drive in December at its 31 locations. Rockford Park District Foundation is selling lagoon bricks to pave a new patio area outside Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, to be completed this summer. Visit www. rockfordparkdistrict.org/give.
KMK Media Group, Inc., moved to a new location in downtown Rockford at 716 N. Church St., with more space for growth. KMK also launched a brand makeover including a new logo, website and collateral materials at www.kmkmedia.com.
PR Etc., was hired by Chicago Rockford International Airport to raise visibility for its cargo activity, passenger services and operations. The Rockford RiverHawks seeks families interested in housing a player for the 2012 season – from the first week of May to as late as midSeptember. Host families receive up to four season tickets, VIP parking pass, discount card for team store purchases, and monthly picnics with the team. Or host a player just for spring training, May 1 to 17. Families can receive up to four 10-game mini plans. Contact 815-871-5245 or at sallyh@rockfordriverhawks.com. Phones Plus, Inc., a 28-year-old telecommunications company in Rockford, acquired Phones & More. Dick Berman, Phones & More owner, will provide consulting services to Phones Plus. Argyle Marketing completed a corporate website for Business Profile magazine at www.business profilemagazine.com. RAMP received a $15,000 Lighting Upgrade Grant by the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation to improve lighting and lower energy bills by replacing old light fixtures with high-energy bulbs and ballasts. It also received $2,534 towards the project through the ComEd Smart Ideas for Your Business program. CYRS Wealth Advisors LLC was recognized as one of the top Fusion Member firms in an industry report published by Fusion Advisor Network, “Fusion’s Best: Success Stories from the Top Fusion Member Firms.” JX Peterbilt - Rockford donated canned goods and other items from its food drive, and a $500 donation from the dealership’s parent company, JX Enterprises, to the Rock River Valley Pantry. KMK Media Group, Inc., designed print advertisements for the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau to promote Rockford tourist destinations in regional and out-ofstate publications, and promotional items — from pens to umbrellas — for events this year. The Rockford Symphony Orchestra received a $10,000 award through the National Endowment for the
Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois raises $1,500 in monetary donations at its McHenry store to benefit the Friends In Service Here (FISH) of McHenry food pantry and an additional $777 to fund non-perishable food and non-food items. Art’s Challenge America Fast-Track program for educational materials and production of three performances of Beethoven Live on April 25 at the Coronado Performing Arts Center for underserved audiences. Employee benefits consulting firm Boyd Consulting Group developed wellness plans for groups of all sizes — tailored to needs and objectives. Call Sal Marino 888-558-2693. Rockford Park District’s Magic Waters Waterpark chose the name for its two brand new speed slides, Double Dare Drop, most likely to open in 2012. The winning name was suggested by Lyn Gorsegner, Oregon, Ill. Brian Thomas Photography provided photography for the Rockford Chamber’s 20 People You Should Know awards and event celebration, and One publication; photographed images for IPSEN in Pecatonica to promote new and current products lines, and photographed the Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens preview gala. He has donated more than 20 aerial photography flights documenting the conservatory’s progression. Clifton Gunderson and LarsonAllen have become the new CliftonLarsonAllen, providing accounting, tax, audit, outsourcing and wealth advisory services across the country, including Rockford. Stillman Bank gave away beef quarters and pork halves to 12 winners at its six locations for its holiday giveaway drawing in December. Accounting and consulting firms Eide Bailly LLP and Wipfli LLP announced plans to merge and will officially combine on June 1, 2012, pending regulatory approval. Rockford Park District released a 348-page hardcover book, “Building
a Lasting Dream 1909 to 2009: A History of the Rockford Park District,” authored by Webbs Norman, retired executive director with 34 years at the park district. Rockford Spine Center was awarded a three-year term of accreditation in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology. The SwedishAmerican Regional Cancer Center released its online annual report for 2011, available at www.swedishamerican.org/ CAR, with a summary of the cancer center’s analytic and non-analytic incidences of cancer cases in 2010. World Financial Group, Inc., announced that more than 7,380 new associates starting their own financial services organization under its brand in October, 2011 — a record number. Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden will host Donation Days on the first Tuesday of each month, where admission is free and donations of any amount encouraged. During fiscal year 2010, Rockford Memorial Hospital contributed annual community benefits of more than $48 million in programs and services. Rockford RiverHawks pitcher and Rockton native Brett Scarpetta is holding pitching lessons now through April at Wallbangers Academy in Loves Park on a first-come, firstserve basis. Call 815-543-0708. The Go Global Conference received an economic development award in the special event category from the Mid-American Economic Development Council during the 2011 Mid-America Competitiveness Conference & Site Selector Forum in December in Chicago.
A telemedicine clinic, serving children with hearing and ear problems, opened in January at the L.P. Johnson Family Health Center, 1221 E. State St., Rockford, with clinical services provided remotely through videoconferencing technology. The clinic is a collaboration between the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, UIC College of Medicine at Chicago and the University of Illinois Division of Specialized Care for Children. Savant Capital Management was recognized by Financial Planning magazine as the 36th largest Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firm in the United States. Rockford Network of Professional Women announced its 2012 scholarship search with $2,500 to a woman with one or more years college credit and $2,000 to a woman beginning a degree program. Visit www.rockfordnetwork.biz or contact 815-262-9497 or www.Scholarship@ rockfordnetwork.biz. Satori Pathway LLC presented methods and resources for working with dementia and Alzheimer’s clients to staff of Prairie View Assisted Living, Winnebago, in January. The Rockford Park District’s Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens is open free to the public from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., on the third Wednesday of every month. Culver’s Restaurants of Rockford/ Roscoe employees raised $17,520 for Rockford Rescue Mission, a personal record. Specialty Screw Corporation installed a solar photovoltaic system by The Morse Group with Wanxiang panels, which will generate up to 16.8 kilowatts of energy. Christofferson Moving & Storage, a local agent of United Van Lines, received the 2011 United Van President’s Quality Award for top service among 350 moving agents.
February 2012 theVoice rockfordchamber.com
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the News IN Members THEin NEWS
1. Deborah LaVelle
2. Sarilyn Neiber
3. Rachel Parry
4. Kelly Eickstead
5. Rebecca Factor
6. Megan Wahl
7. John McGreal
8. Elizabeth Goodwin
9. Lisa Carter
10. Paul Klebs
11. Hui Lin
12. Peter Baumann
13. Kacie Benjamin
14. Robert Orr
15. Penny Billman, Ph.D
16. Dr. Michael Roh
17. Dr. Christopher Sliva
18. Dr. Fred Sweet
19. Mary Ann De Arvil
20. Linda Cooper
Board Appointments Rockford Rescue Mission elected Shawn Rooney, financial advisor with Merrill Lynch, to its board for a three-year term, and Dick Gorman, AgPerspective, Inc., and John Whiteford, Vaughn’s Home Furnishings, as advisors. Deborah LaVelle (1), vice president of marketing & application engineering at Aqua-Aerobic Systems, was elected the first female chair of the Water and Wastewater Equipment Manufacturers Association in 103 years. Jim Roberts, manager of inside sales with Eclipse, Inc., was chosen president elect, to serve as president of the Metal Treating Institute for the 20132014 term.
New Hires, Promotions, Retirements Alpine Bank promoted Sarilyn Neiber (2) to cash management officer and Rachel Parry (3) to in-store branch officer. Kelly Eickstead (4), ERPA, joined Riverside Community Bank as vice president and market manager for its Wealth Management Group. Former Rockford RiverHawks catcher Elvin Millan, Jr., will be head coach for Guilford High School’s
freshman baseball team from midFebruary until April 27. Rockford College added Rebecca Factor (5) as director of the English Language Institute, Megan Wahl (6) as an admission counselor, John McGreal (7) as a first-year admission counselor and Elizabeth (Izzy) Goodwin (8) as development coordinator. The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc., announced the appointment of Lisa M. Carter (9) as vice president, business banking, Rockford. Van Matre HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital named Mark Lundvall its interim Chief Executive Officer. Aqua-Aerobic Systems appointed Paul Klebs (10) to aftermarket sales manager, and promoted Hui Lin, P.E. (11), to international business manager, and Peter Baumann, P.E. (12), to vice president and general manager of its Process Group. The Pavilion at Orchard Ridge Farms welcomed Kacie Benjamin (13) as an event coordinator. Robert Orr (14) joined CliftonLarsonAllen’s Rockford office as a tax senior manager. Penny Billman, Ph.D (15), joined the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford as interim
Get to Know Your Ambassadors Name: Jean Lopez Company: Servpro of Rockford Position: Trauma Specialist/Liaison How long have you been an Ambassador? Four years What do you like most about being an Ambassador?As a former business owner, going to functions where I didn’t know people used to be uncomfortable for me. But when I had friendly faces going out of their way to meet me, I found I could relax, enjoy the event and start to meet people and network. Now that I am on the other side, I want to make sure that I am that welcoming arm for new members. Being an Ambassador allows us to be a part of Chamber events, which is a doorway to hundreds of companies that can generate new business — or simply a friendly connection.
director of the master’s in medical biotechnology program.
safety first, and Kyle Martinson, purchasing, dollars for ideas.
Employee/Community Recognitions, Awards
Kimberly Niedfeldt, CEBS, registered representative with World Financial Group, Inc., passed the Series 65-Uniform Investment Advisor Law Exam.
LDR Construction Services, Inc., LDR Cleaning & Restoration presented Tom Funk, master carpenter, and Jordan Gilliam, water technician, with the 2011 Outstanding Leadership awards at its annual Christmas breakfast. Rock Valley College student Rachel Talan had her poem, Clumsy, selected out of 950 entries for publication in the 2011 edition of Nota Bene, a Phi Theta Kappa publication of literary works. Chris Morgen, Voyager Capital Management, LLC, qualified for the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) Series 65 Uniform Investment Advisor Law License and is eligible to be registered as an investment advisor representative. Rockford Spine Center spine surgeons Dr. Michael Roh (16), Dr. Christopher Sliva (17) and Dr. Fred Sweet (18) received 2011 Patients’ Choice awards – given to only five percent of active physicians by patients in 2011. Rockford Park District presented Quarterly Excellence Awards to Tina Leinbaugh, information services, outstanding performance; Laura Gibbs-Green, marketing & communications, creative contributions; David Petrovich, information services, notable service to staff; Paula Reiter, therapeutic recreation, notable service to community/citizens; Pete Stankiewicz, human resources,
Mary Ann De Arvil (19), mortgage lender and retail banker at Stillman Bank, was awarded the 2011 Affiliate of the Year by the Rockford Chapter of the Women’s Council of Realtors. Saavedra Gehlhausen Architects partner and co-founder Daniel G. Saavedra, AIA, was honored by his alma mater, Universidad La Gran Colombia, Bogota, Colombia, as one of 25 outstanding alumni and one of three from the school of architecture. Charlie Hare, owner of Servpro of Rockford, completed certification as a commercial drying specialist — his 12th earned IICRC certification. LDR Construction Services, Inc, LDR Cleaning & Restoration held an onsite training class in which eight employees, Chad Gelafio, Tom Funk, Dave Kasten, Jay Nordmoe, Jim Juno, Corey Kuehne, Brian Morelock and Derek Brandt, became EPA Certified Lead Renovators. Laura Hobart, manager at Culver’s, won the Culver’s Excellence in Leadership award, one of 10 managers among more than 428 restaurants. Linda Cooper (20), commercial sales and asset manager for William Charles, Ltd., obtained her Manager of Community Associations license from the State of Illinois.
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Community Events COMMUNITY Wednesday, February 1 Rock Valley College presents an exhibition of early Chinese ceramics from the Neolithic period through Feb. 20 in the Estelle M. Black Library, 3301 N. Mulford Road, during library hours. Contact Lynn Fischer-Carlson, 815-921-3348 or L.Fischer-Carlson@ RockValleyCollege.edu. Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Dr., Rockford, presents an independent art exhibit Realism or Not, through Feb. 23, Mondays to Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Rockford Public Library presents Turning 65-Get the Facts from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the East Branch Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. Registration required at 815-965-7606. Entre Computer Solutions presents an educational luncheon, Digital Signage and What’s In It for Me, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road. Limited space. RSVP at 815-847-3126 or davidmar@entrerock.com. Northern IL SCORE Chapter, in EIGERLab, 605 Fulton Ave., presents eBusiness Now, a workshop series on basic digital literacy, on Feb. 1, 8, 15, 29 and March 7, for three hours each. Feb. 1, ADOPTION: Technology Made Simple; Boosting Your Business Using Technology. To enroll, visit bit.ly/d6Mx41.
Thursday, February 2 Rock Valley College presents a special information session on its Career College Programs for high school students, 6 to 7:30 p.m., at Stenstrom Center for Career Education, 4151 Samuelson Road. Contact Linda Auman at 815-921-4086 or l.auman@ rockvalleycollege.edu. The Workforce Connection will hold its annual Career Expo and Job Fair at the Community Building Complex, Belvidere, from noon to 4 p.m., with the Belvidere Chamber of Commerce BoCo Expo. Visit theworkforceconnection.org.
Saturday, February 4 Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, hosts a free public opening of Pulp and Pigment: The Realm of Roland Poska from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., including a gallery walk and children’s art activity from 11 a.m. to noon. The exhibit runs through May 6. Call 815-968-2787 or visit rockfordartmuseum.org.
Monday, February 6 The Heart Hospital at SwedishAmerican Health System presents the 17th annual Cardiology Millennium Conference, 7:30 a.m. to 3:50 p.m., at Giovanni’s Restaurant and Conference Center, 610 N. Bell School Road. Register at swedishamerican.org. The Literacy Council, 982 N. Main St., Rockford, launches its next Volunteer
Tutor Workshop series of six classes. New is an online option beginning Feb. 7. Call 815-963-READ or visit theliteracycouncil.org. Rockford Park District presents 50-minute Indoor Golf Clinics through March 14 on Monday afternoons from 12:30 to 1:20 p.m., or 1:30 to 2:20 p.m., at the Indoor Sports Center, Loves Park. Taught by PGA members and apprentices. Register online at rockfordparkdistrict.org or call 815987-8800.
Tuesday, February 7 Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois and local financial and notfor-profit partners present free Good Dollars and Sense financial classes, Tuesdays and Thursdays, Feb. 7 to 23 from 10 a.m. to noon or 6 to 8 p.m. Classes open on a first-come, firstserve basis. Contact 815-987-6203 or goodsense@goodwillni.org. Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence at Rockford College kicks off Managing Our Most Valuable Assets: Staff, Volunteers and Facilities, part of its Faith-Based Leadership certificate program, 1:30 to 4 p.m., Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28, at 5100 E. State St., room 116, Rockford College campus entrance. Call 815 394-4384.
Friday, February 10 Rockford Symphony Orchestra presents SoundBites with Music Director Steven Larsen and Michele Lekas, violin and RSO concertmaster, noon at Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Country Club, 5151 Guilford Road. Call 815-965-0049 or visit rockfordsymphony.com.
Saturday, February 11 The Rockford RiverHawks host a free Youth Clinic from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., at Wallbangers Academy in Loves Park, ages seven to 13 on a first-come, firstserve basis. Call 815-885-BALL.
Sunday, February 12 Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., presents Chocolate Sundae Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. Call 815-9636769 or discoverycentermuseum.org. Rockford Park District’s Carlson Ice Arena host its annual Sweetheart Skate indoor ice skating session from 2 to 4 p.m., at 4150 N. Perryville Road, Loves Park. Visit rockfordparkdistrict. org/iceskate or call 815-969-4069.
Monday, February 13 Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center presents Music on Main featuring Carl Cole, piano/vocals, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., at Emerson House, 420 N. Main St. Visit mendelssohnpac.org or call 815964-9713. Byron Forest Preserve District offers a DNR Hunter Education Course on Feb. 13, 15 and 17 at 6 p.m. Call 815234-8535, ext. 217, to register.
Wednesday, February 15 Barbara Olson Center of Hope, 3206 N. Central Ave., presents Sensory
Processing and the Effects on Learning and Behavior on autism and other sensory dysfunctions. Training is Feb 15, or over three days, Feb. 13, March 14 and 18. Call 815-964-9275, ext. 233.
Thursday, February 16 The Rockford Park District presents Learn to Skate and Jr. IceHogs/Learn to Play Hockey, six-week session, for ages 3 through adults of all abilities. Visit rockfordparkdistrict.org. Northern IL SCORE Chapter, in EIGERLab, 605 Fulton Ave., presents SCORE Business Roundtables, 7:30 to 9 a.m. The open discussions focus on topics of interest to small business owners. Registration is encouraged. Visit bit.ly/eSe70Q.
Friday, February 17 The Beloit International Film Festival features Lutefisk Wars at 7:30 p.m., at Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Spring Creek Road, and Lost Bohemia at 7:30 p.m., and Double Feature 1 at 10 p.m., at the New Sullivan Theater, 118 N. Main St., Rockford. Visit beloitfilmfest. org. Rockford Public Library presents For Colored Girls, part of its Black Cinema Discussion Series, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at Montague Branch Connie Lane Room, 1238 S. Winnebago St. Registration not required. Call 815-965-7606. P.A. Peterson presents Mardi Gras Open House and Jambalaya Jamboree, 5 to 7 p.m., for the public with New Orleans-style cuisine and entertainment by Mike Alongi Trio. Call 815-399-8832 or visit www.LSSI.org.
Saturday, February 18 The Beloit International Film Festival features Trinity Goodheart at 7:30 p.m., at Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Spring Creek Road, and Short Slot 8 at 7:30 p.m., and Irving Walsh’s Ecstacy at 10 p.m., at the New Sullivan Theater, 118 N. Main St., Rockford at 7:30 p.m. Visit beloitfilmfest.org.
RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. Registration required. Call 815-9657606.
Wednesday, February 22 Northern Illinois University Job Fair, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at NIU Convocation Center, 1525 W. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. Employer booth registration available at www.niu.edu/careerservices. Contact Mary Myers, 815-753-7169 or myers@ niu.edu.
Saturday February 25 Veterans Memorial Hall presents “Meet the Tuskegee Airmen, A Living History” in celebration of Black History Month, from 1 to 3 p.m., followed by an opportunity for autographs and purchase of memorabilia. Visit tuskegeeairmen.org.
Sunday, February 26 CHIP Alumni of Rock River Valley and the Adventist Church present the 30day Complete Health Improvement Program at 325 N. Alpine Road, from Feb. 26 to March 29, from 6:30 to 8:30. Class size limited. Register early. Call 815-298-8482 or visit chiphealth.com. Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center presents the 51st annual Chandler Starr Miller Scholarship Competition–Winners’ Recital at 2 p.m., at the Second Congregational United Church of Christ, 318 N. Church St. Visit mendelssohnpac.org or call 815-964-9713.
Monday, February 27 Northern Illinois University Educators’ Job Fair at NIU Convocation Center, 1525 W. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. Open sessions from 9 a.m. to noon (NIU students/ alumni) and 10 to noon (all other candidates). Employer registrations at niu.edu/careerservices. Contact Barbara Kaufmann, 815-753-1645 or bkaufmann@niu.edu.
Tuesday, February 28
Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., and the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers present Discover Engineering, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Call 815-963-6769 or discoverycentermuseum.org.
Ticomix, Inc., hosts a Lunch & Learn-Effective Web 2.0 Marketing Tactics from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at its corporate offices, 5642 N. 2nd St., Loves Park. Free lunch for registered guests. Visit Ticomix.com/events or call 779-423-6200.
Sunday, February 19
Wednesday, February 29
Court Street United Methodist Church, 215 N. Court St., presents Leah Zahn & Julia Schade at 2 p.m. Freewill donation. Visit courtstreetumc. org or call 815-962-6061.
Geriatric Care Management Services of Northern Illinois and Teach Us to Care, Senior Helpers, HealthSource Home Care and the Law Office of Donald P. Sullivan present Senior Fair at the Crossroads Adult Day Services, 625 Adams St., from 9 a.m. to noon. More than 30 vendors, door prizes. Call 815-489-0560.
Tuesday, February 21 Northern Illinois University Internship Career Fair, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at NIU Convocation Center, 1525 W. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. Employer booth registration available at niu.edu/ careerservices. Contact Diane Hart, 815-753-7159 or DLHart@niu.edu. Rockford Public Library presents How Will We Pay for College? 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the East Branch Friends of
Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence presents Leadership Cafe at noon at Burpee Center, Rockford College, 5050 E. State St. Margaret Larson, county director, Stephenson and Winnebago, University of Illinois Extension, presents Engaging Generations. Call 815-394-4384.
February 2012 theVoice rockfordchamber.com
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Membership Renewals Thank you to the members who renewed with the Rockford Chamber in December, 2011. AARP Illinois
Merrill Lynch
Abbott Plastics and Supply Co.
MetLife/Premier Wealth Group
Abreo Restaurant
Metropolitan Title Agency
Accelerated Rehabilitation Centers
Mike’s Auto Service
Adams Awards and Apparel
Miller Eye Center
ADV Enterprises
Northwest Quarterly Magazine
Advantage Kwik Dry
Olson Funeral & Cremation
Alignment Rockford Alpine Kiwanis Club
Services Ltd./Fred C. Olson Chapel Olson Funeral & Cremation
Amberwood Care Centre
Services, Ltd./North Main Chapel &
Arc Design Resources, Inc.
Care Center
Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP
Olsson Roofing Company, Inc.
Benning Group LLC
Parks Big & Tall
Catholic Diocese of Rockford
Pearson
Children’s Home & Aid
Pierce Distribution Services
Chris Sherrard Farmers Insurance
Company
Creative Crane & Rigging, Inc.
Rabine Paving
Crescent Electric Supply Company
Ringland-Johnson, Inc.
Eventus
Rock River Energy Services, Inc.
Farm & Fleet of Rockford
Rockford I.D. Shop, Inc.
FatWallet, Inc.
Rockford Metropolitan Agency
Fifth Third Bank First Webs, Inc. Flood Pros
for Planning (RMAP) Rockford Woman’s Club/ Rockford Theatre
Franchesco’s Ristorante
Savant Capital Management
Galapagos Rockford Charter School
Siena on Brendenwood
Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois
Simply Amish
Granite City Food & Brewery
Smithereen Pest Management
Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
Special Power, Inc.
Heartland Community Church
Stronghold Camp and Retreat Center
Hicksgas Belvidere
SuperSuds Car Care Center
Holmertz-Parsons, CPAs
SupplyCore, Inc.
HR Capital Management Consultants
SVL Productions
J & M Plating, Inc.
theFranaGroup
Joseph A. Bank
TLC Construction
Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful
U.S. Cellular
K-I Machine Tool & Production Inc.
URS Energy & Construction
Laser Quest
Windmill Hill LC
Liberty Mutual Insurance Company
Winnebago County Clerk of the
March of Dimes Market Dimensions, Inc.
Circuit Court, 17th Judicial Circuit YWCA of Rockford
Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center
February 2012 Member Anniversaries Thank you to the members who celebrate their anniversaries with the Rockford Chamber in February, 2012.
40-Year MemberS
10-Year Member
Comcast YMCA of Rock River Valley
1st Step Mortgage Group, Inc.
20-Year Member Rockford Woman’s Club/ Rockford Theatre
15-Year MemberS Blackhawk Area Council of Boy Scouts of America Employers’ Coalition on Health (ECOH) Frink’s Sewer & Drain Inc.
5-Year MemberS Barb Berman Bug Lady Pest Control City Fire Fighters Union Local 413 Kantorei, The Singing Boys of Rockford Pierce Laminated Products, Inc.
New Chamber Members MEMBERS All Paws Pet Wash
Kochi Japan
Self-Serve Pet Wash Located in Rockford and Surrounding Area 8642 U.S. 20 Garden Prairie, IL 61038 Keith Caldwell 800-537-8231 www.allpawspetwash.com
Fine Asian Dining Experience in a Contemporary Atmosphere, Fresh Sushi and Grill Tables 7310 Walton St., Unit A, 61108 Jeffrey Sean 815-391-8886 www.kochijapan.com
CH Robinson Company, Worldwide Inc.
Rock Valley Federal Credit Union
Non-Asset Based Transportation Company Providing Freight Transportation and Logistics, Outsource Solutions and Supply Chain Management 6000 E. State St., Ste. 501, 61108 Jay Denning 815-397-9433 www.chrobinson.com
Providing Solutions for all Your Financial Needs with Local Decisions for Over 40 Years in the Rock River Valley 1201 Clifford Ave. Loves Park, IL 61111 Lori Perkins 815-877-0441 www.rvfcu.org
Forward Equity Marketing Group
Rockford Area SHRM (Society for Human Resources Management)
Full Service Advertising & Marketing Firm 124 N. Water St., Ste. 204D, 61107 Jeff Addotta 815-977-4568 www.forwardequity.net
Geostar Mechanical Inc. A Premier Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing and Blackflow Contractor Serving Rockford and Surrounding Communities P.O. Box 7896, 61125 Dan Blocker 815-494-9090 www.geostarinc.com
Geriatric Care Management Services of Northern Illinois, Inc. Dedicated to Helping Older Adults and Persons with Disabilities with Cost, Quality of Care and Availability of Resources 6260 E. Riverside Blvd., Ste. 258 Loves Park, IL 61111 Lorna Sullivan 815-977-9356 www.gcmsofnorthernillinois.com
Gordon Food Service/GFS Marketplace Wholesale Food Products and Food Related Products. Party & Event Products and Planning Help. No Membership Required. 6955 Garrett Lane, 61107 Bob Grant 815-399-9420 www.gfsmarketplace.com
Advancing the Principles, Policies and Practices of the Human Resource Profession and Providing a Medium to Exchange Ideas and Experiences P.O. Box 2453 Loves Park, IL 61132 Jill Kaney 815-316-1560 www.rashrm.org
Stage It Wiseley Providing an Affordable Way to Prepare Homes for a Quick and Easy Sell Cathy Wiseley 815-874-0022 www.stageitwiseley.com
Teach Us To Care Training in Palliative Care for Nurses, CNAs and Caregivers 6260 E. Riverside Blvd., Ste. 258 Loves Park, IL 61111 Lorna Sullivan 815-977-9356 www.teachustocare.net
Union Fence Company Fence Installation 6502 Rock Hill Road Loves Park, IL 61111 Mike Bengston 815-636-2095
workplace staffing Workforce Solutions Provider P.O. Box 4323, 61110 LoRayne Logan 815-961-9679 www.workplacestaffing.com
Submit your news! The Rockford Chamber of Commerce welcomes and encourages submissions for The VOICE of the Rockford Business Community. Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding publication. Send news releases and other items of interest to the business community to: The VOICE Rockford Chamber of Commerce 308 W. State St., Ste. 190 Rockford, IL 61101
theVoice rockfordchamber.com February 2012
EVENTS
Upcoming Chamber Events february, 2012 Thursday, February 2 Business After Hours, Rockford MELD, 5 to 7 p.m., at Giovanni’s, Inc., 610 N. Bell School Road.
Tuesday, February 7 Business Women’s Council, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road. Sponsor: AAIM Employer’s Association.
Wednesday, February 8 Breakfast Buzz: Sales Techniques to Improve Bottom Line, 7:30 to 9 a.m., at Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Sponsor: McGladrey.
Friday, February 10 Government Affairs Council Meeting, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., at Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St. For information on joining, contact Heidi Garner at 815-316-4312. Ribbon Cutting, Salvino’s, noon to 1 p.m., at 7801 E. State St. (Clock Tower Resort).
Tuesday, February 14 Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road. Contact Denise Wimmer, Alliance Insurance, denise@ flandersinsurance.com.
Wednesday, February 15 Advantage Power Network Club, Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Perry Creek Pkwy. Contact Teri Watts, Whitehead Inc., Realtors®, tlwatts@ whiteheadcommercial.com or Holly Hanson, The Business Edge Inc., coach@thebizedge.biz. Advantage Club – Originals, alternate locations. Contact Karla Fernet, Healthy Balance Reflexology, Kfernet555@hotmail.com. Thursday, February 16 11:30 am to 1:00 pm Cliffbreakers Riverside Resort 700 W. Riverside Blvd., Rockford
Small Business Luncheon: Guerilla Marketing in 30 Days Speaker is Al Lautenslager, principal of Market For Profits, and co-author with Jay Conrad Levinson of the book, “Guerilla Marketing in 30 Days.” Sponsors: BMO Harris (presenting) Humana (gold)
23
Advertisers Index ADVERTISERS
Friday, February 17
Alpine Bank.............................................5
Ribbon Cutting, KP Counseling, Inc., 6392 Linden Road, at 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
BMO Harris Bank..................................14
Rockford Chamber of Commerce.............................5, 8, 24
Broadmoor Agency, Inc..........................4
Rockford Christian Schools..................13
Brian Thomas Photography, Inc................................ 24
Rockford College..................................11
Thursday, February 23 Good Morning Rockford! by Entre Computer Solutions and U.S. Cellular, 7:30 to 9 a.m., at Entre Computer Solutions, 8900 N. 2nd St.
Tuesday, February 28 Chamber 101 with Speed Networking, 4 to 5:15 p.m., at Whitehead Inc., Realtors®, 839 N. Perryville Road. Sponsor: MembersAlliance Credit Union. Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road. Contact Denise Wimmer, Alliance Insurance, denise@ flandersinsurance.com.
EIGERlab...............................................15
Rockford Health Physicians............10, 17
Humana.................................................16
Rock Valley College..........................7, 12
Illinois Small Business Development Center...........................15
Saint Anthony College of Nursing..............................11
Judson University.................................13
Stillman Bank..........................................8
McGladrey...............................................3
Thayer Lighting.......................................3
Members Alliance Credit Union..........................................4 Midwest Community Bank...................10
University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford..........................12
Rasmussen College..............................13
Upper Iowa University..........................13
Riverside Community Bank......................................................9
Van Galder Bus A Coach USA Co.................................2
Chamber Staff / Call 815-987-8100
Direct Line
Einar K. Forsman, President & CEO.................................... 815-316-4304 Heidi Garner, Executive Assistant to the President.................. 815-316-4312
Wednesday, February 29
Doug Hessong, Director of Publications & Technology............. 815-316-4338
Advantage Power Network Club, Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Perry Creek Pkwy. Contact Teri Watts, Whitehead Inc., Realtors®, tlwatts@whiteheadcommercial. com or Holly Hanson, The Business Edge Inc., coach@thebizedge.biz.
Lynette Jacques, Advertising and Sponsorship Executive......... 815-316-4317
Advantage Club – Originals, alternate locations. Contact Karla Fernet, Healthy Balance Reflexology, Kfernet555@hotmail.com.
March, 2012 Friday, March 9 Government Affairs Council Meeting, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., at Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St. For information on joining, contact Heidi Garner at 815-316-4312
Tuesday, March 13 Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road. Contact Denise Wimmer, Alliance Insurance, denise@flandersinsurance.com.
Wednesday, March 14 Advantage Power Network Club, Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Perry Creek Pkwy. Contact Teri Watts, Whitehead Inc., Realtors®, tlwatts@ whiteheadcommercial.com or Holly Hanson, The Business Edge Inc., coach@thebizedge.biz.
Vee Jevremovic, Manager of Education Programs and Events.. .. 815-316-4337 Jazzminne Keyes, Ignite Director....................................... 815-316-4335 Cyndie Landis, Financial Assistant.. .................................... 815-316-4300 Joy Moriarty, V.P. Finance.. ............................................... 815-316-4316 Stacy Mullins, Director of Events.. ...................................... 815-316-4302 Diane Navickis, Membership Development Manager............... 815-316-4315 Joan Sundvall, Membership Contact Coordinator................... 815-316-4320 Valerie Tippitt, Membership Development Manager................. 815-316-4336
Chamber Board of Directors & Officers Executive Committee Chairman of the Board Mike Broski Entré Computer Solutions Chairman Elect Richard Walsh SwedishAmerican Health System Vice Chair Patti Thayer Thayer Lighting, Inc. Treasurer Larry Bridgeland Mid-City Office Products Immediate Past Chairman Pam Maher KMK Media Group
Directors Romero Bennett Blue Sky Insurance Agency, Inc.
Andrew Benson Benson Stone Company, Inc. Walt Boothe BMO Harris Bank N.A. Ryan Brauns Rockford Consulting & Brokerage Paul Callighan ComEd, An Exelon Company Joe Castrogiovanni Giovanni’s, Inc.
Pat Morrow Alpine Bank
Jennifer Wood Sikich LLP
Mark Peterson CBL Associates Cherry Vale Peter Ricker Rockford Register Star Timothy Rollins WilliamsMcCarthy
J Chapman Maverick Media of Rockford LLC
Daniel Saavedra Saavedra Gehlhausen Architects
Rena Cotsones Northern Illinois University
Henry Seybold Rockford Health System
Darlene Furst Furst Staffing
Pat Shaw RSM McGladrey
Penelope Lechtenberg Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP
Somchan Thatsanaphon K-I Machine Tool & Production Inc.
Wednesday, March 28
Tuesday, March 27
Advantage Power Network Club, Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Perry Creek Pkwy. Contact Teri Watts, Whitehead Inc., Realtors®, tlwatts@ whiteheadcommercial.com or Holly Hanson, The Business Edge Inc., coach@thebizedge.biz.
Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road. Contact Denise Wimmer, Alliance Insurance, denise@flandersinsurance.com.
Advantage Club – Originals, alternate locations. Contact Karla Fernet, Healthy Balance Reflexology, Kfernet555@hotmail.com.
Advantage Club – Originals, alternate locations. Contact Karla Fernet, Healthy Balance Reflexology, Kfernet555@hotmail.com.
Paul McCann Stanley Steemer
Tim White Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
Michael Mastroianni Rock Valley College
Richard Zumwalt OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center
Ex-Officio Directors Janyce Fadden Rockford Area Economic Development Council Einar K. Forsman President & CEO, Rockford Chamber of Commerce John Groh Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
March 2012 Special Sections Professional Services Wireless Products, Computer & IT Services For information on advertising, call 815-987-8100