February Voice 2018

MIDWEST STITCH SEAMS RIGHT

INDOOR CITY MARKET BREAKS GROUND

PAGE 3

PAGE 8

SCHOOL CHOICE HAS AN OPEN PLAYING FIELD PAGE 18

THE VOICE IS ONLINE AT ROCKFORDCHAMBER.COM

MORE POP-UP SHOPS February 2018 | Volume 31 | No. 2 POPPING UP IN ROCKFORD?

of the Rockford Business Community

Bill Roop

For years, Bill Roop has selflessly given his time and resources to many different causes and organizations. So it came as no great surprise when the president and CEO of Alpine Bank was honored with the prestigious Citizen of the Year Award at the Rockford Chamber of Commerce annual dinner on January 25 at Giovanni’s.

Roop has spent more than four decades in the financial industry, including 32 at Alpine Bank. He has volunteered for the Rockford Area Economic Development Council, Rockford Boys and Girls Club,

PHOTOS BY BRIAN THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY

Chamber’s Citizen of the Year

Bill Roop, president of Alpine Bank, receives congratulations on being named Citizen of the Year.

Rockford Rescue Mission and Rockford Area Crime Stoppers, among others. He also brought together competing banks to create a $17 million line of credit to ensure the AAR project was completed at the Chicago Rockford International Airport.

“There have been many past winners who’ve given their time and talents,” said Roop. “It’s very humbling to be a part of that special group.”

Roop acknowledged several organizations during his acceptance speech including the airport, the Rockford Public Schools, city and county leaders and local healthcare organizations.

“This community is improving and getting better,” said Roop. “I see young people stepping up. Together we can make this a star community.”

“I’m thrilled for Bill Roop,” said Einar Forsman, president and CEO of the

√

Visit us online at: rockfordchamber.com ■ online registration ■ keynote speaker video clips ■ event photos ■ list of Chamber events

Questions? 815-987-8100

Join the Chamber’s LinkedIn Group

Rockford Chamber of Commerce. “He’s done so much for this community. He puts his name, the company and resources to anything he commits to. He’s a guy who always shows up; he’s very deserving of this honor.”

During his presentation, Forsman highlighted the chamber’s accomplishments over the past year.

Among the 2017 highlights are the second year of the Rockford Leadership Alliance, the launch of the Small Business Development Center and the creation of the Confluence Awards.

“I’m very proud of our staff and board,” he said. “We haven’t just sat back.

We’ve committed money and resources to leadership development, small business development and took on the task of advocating for Home Rule.”

Continued on page 4

Chamber votes to endorse returning home rule powers to Rockford

At the January 23rd meeting of the Board of Directors, the Rockford Chamber of Commerce voted to endorse supporting the upcoming March 20 referendum to restore Home Rule powers to the City of Rockford.

The Board authorized the support via a comprehensive resolution that included recommended policies to limit or provide a governor on the use of Home Rule Powers. The vote followed two extensive review sessions with Mayor McNamara and representatives from the citizens’ advocacy committee, Our Decisions — Our Solutions. The Chamber’s Government Affairs Council was the vetting body for this topic before making its recommendation to the Chamber Board of Directors.

When Illinois adopted a new

Constitution in 1970, it provided home rule powers to any city of 25,000 population or more. These communities can exercise any local powers not expressly prohibited by the State. Effectively, it shifts decision making from the State to the local level, allowing residents to develop local solutions to local problems.

These can include initiatives and ordinances in a wide range of areas such as building, zoning, sanitation, public health, civil disturbances, quality of life, safety and welfare.

With home rule, nothing happens automatically. In Rockford’s case, the Mayor and City Council still must develop and vote on ordinances, budget proposals and new legislation. Home rule is merely an important tool allowing Continued on page 23

A plan stemming from the River District Association’s recent Board of Directors retreat may result in more pop-up shops in Rockford.

The River District announced plans to work with city staffers to create a Temporary Occupancy Ordinance to host pop-up shops in underutilized storefronts in downtown Rockford.

Through this, online artisan sellers who are thinking about opening a storefront can “test” the viability of having a brick and mortar space in the River District. The initiative coincides with the City of Rockford’s Downtown Rockford Strategic Action Plan, Rockford 2020 Comprehensive Plan, and Guiding Principles, which aim to “Make Downtown Rockford a commercial, entertainment, and cultural center that residents take pride in and customers visit often.”

Interested parties in the temporary pop-up shop concept should contact the River District Association at info@ riverdistrict.com.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR! Breakfast Meeting

The State of SMALL BUSINESS feb. 22 • prairie street brewhouse For more info, see page 27 SPONSORED BY

GOODWILL’S FREE INCOME TAX SITES OPEN Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois has opened its free income tax preparation and filing sites, staffed by IRS-certified volunteer tax preparers to assist in helping participants claim any eligible credits and deductions. For the ninth year, Goodwill in conjunction with the IRS and the United Way of the Rock River Valley has offered this service to individuals and families with incomes less than $54,000.

Last year, the tax sites served 2,362 individuals; saving participants more than $375,000 in tax preparation fees.

To schedule an appointment, visit www.goodwillni.org/goodtaxes or call 815-987-6200 (Rockford area) or 815-3755201 (DeKalb area). Fifth Third Bank and Alpine Bank also will be available some days for free financial education. Call 815-9876200 for the schedule.

For those with incomes less than $66,000, Goodwill is offering free federal and state tax filing online.

Visit www.unitedway.org/myfreetaxes. For questions, call 1-855-MYTX-HELP (1-855-698-9435).

2 | february 2018

theVoice • rockfordchamber.com

positionChairman’s Perspective Regardless of size, your business matters This year’s Annual Chamber of Commerce Dinner was another reminder of the depth, strength and energy of our areas business community. More than 800 leaders joined together to celebrate the work of your Chamber, but, perhaps more importantly, to recognize the strength of business in this community.

In the room that evening we were joined by an incredibly wide variety of business. Our guests represented the diverse business base that makes this a great environment, countless types and size organizations all together for one reason, making this the best business community possible.

As I looked out over the room, I was struck by the realization that we are a wonderful mix of businesses. There are names that we all know and recognize that are great leaders and have large foot prints, but your Chamber is made up of so many wonderful smaller organizations, completing the mosaic comprising our business landscape.

One of the tenants of Chamber is that we serve all our members regardless of size. In the case of the Rockford

Chamber of Commerce, that includes over 800 that would be considered “small business.” The wonderful news is that all 1,200 of our members are entitled to the same full scope of member benefits. That is a strong part of our value statement to smaller businesses.

In other areas of business there is a clear threshold, by size, to be entitled to many benefits. Your Chamber is proud to provide service to all members, regardless of size.

In the past year you have heard quite a bit about the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). The Rockford Chamber stepped up to host/ sponsor the SBDC because of our understanding of the diverse needs of our business community. It was a significant strategic commitment to embrace the leader role for the SBDC because we know the value of adding new partners in the area, creating growth and opportunity. We also realize that most successful start-up companies need a lot of guidance and support to make dreams come alive. We are committed to be that partner that helps enrich the community. The addition of

the SBDC and its director, Bo Boger, is a Richard Zumwalt direct link to Rockford Chamber our belief in Board Chairman the Chamber stepping up to help create new businesses.

On yet another front, the Chamber is working to enrich the value to small businesses through the Small Business Task force. Given the substantial number of members who lead small to mid-sized companies considerable study went into designing a focus that can be a direct resource to these members. My thanks and appreciation to the task force members who did the research, testing and design of an opportunity for small business leaders.

The resulting program will provide a great link between businesses to focus on and address needs unique to the smaller business.

Your Chamber is leading in ways, big and small, to make sure we support real business growth in our communities. As always, I am proud to be a part of this great work with you.

theVoice

february 2018 | 3

Member Profile PROFILE

Owner Daniel DeCastris uses the knowledge gained from his technical degree, and with his brothers, opened Midwest Stitch in 1994. The company has continued to grow.

Midwest Stitch: Putting its mark on corporate apparel

By Paul Anthony Arco When Daniel DeCastris was enrolled at Rock Valley College, he took drafting and CAD classes, anticipating a technical career in engineering or a related field.

But a funny thing happened along the way.

“My two younger brothers, James and John, knew of a relative’s friend who had an embroidery machine,” DeCastris said. “We attended a trade show, bought a machine and decided to give it a go.

We didn’t know how it would work out, but we quickly discovered a market for corporate apparel before company logos became in vogue.”

So, in 1994 the DeCastris brothers opened Midwest Stitch, an embroidery apparel company, in Daniel’s home where they worked for six years, before relocating to its current location on Charles Street.

Midwest Stitch handles all things corporate — shirts, towels, sweatshirts, umbrellas, caps, uniforms — you name it.

“In the 1990s we were poised for success,” DeCastris said. “I made cold calls out of the phone book, one business after the next. Most companies understood the concept of having logoed apparel.”

Eventually his brothers left the company to pursue other interests, but Daniel kept plugging away thanks to a helping hand from his brother-in-law, Brett Solowiejko, who handled production and sales for more than 14 years.

Weathering Economic Downturn A majority of Midwest Stitch’s clients are based in Rockford, along with a number of national and international accounts. “If you see a logo in Rockford, chances are good they are a customer of ours,” DeCastris said. “We’re not just an embroidery company; we’re consultants who help solve problems.”

Most of the company’s business comes from referrals. “Our first customers were manufacturers, following the trends of Rockford business. But as trends changed, we branched out into construction, entertainment, hospitality and other sectors, and found new clients outside of Rockford. If we had put all our eggs into manufacturing, we wouldn’t have survived.”

Like many companies, Midwest Stitch faced financial challenges a decade ago.

“In 2005 people were spending money hand over fist and many companies were spending beyond their means,” DeCastris said. “Our approach was a more financially conservative one. So when the lean years hit, and those other companies went under, we were prepared for the crash and rebounded quickly.”

Value of Brand The Midwest Stitch team includes 16 full- and part-time employees. Some are relatives, including Daniel’s sister, Carla, who runs a sales office in New York. “They are a great crew,” he said. “They lose sleep over quality and getting things done on time. I can’t say enough about them.

We’ve been successful because of them.”

Since starting with one embroidery machine, Midwest Stitch now has several multi-head, high-production machines.

Orders are often driven by the change of seasons. Daniel said orders typically take one to two weeks to complete.

Despite tighter budgets, many companies recognize the importance of having logoed apparel to showcase their corporate identity.

“We all recognize the value of a brand,” DeCastris said. “Humans respond to color and brand; it evokes emotion. Why not have branding that is well done and well thought out? Anytime someone wears your company’s hat or shirt, it creates a lasting image that people remember.”

Besides providing quality products to companies big and small, DeCastris said he’s enjoyed building solid relationships with customers, employees and vendors.

“Over 24 years, we’ve seen the life cycle of many businesses starting, growing and coming full circle,” he said.

“We get to know not only our customers but their families too. In many cases, we know their shirt size and their favorite color. It’s been a privilege to have a small part in their success.”

MIDWEST STITCH Owner: Daniel DeCastris 6767 Charles St. midweststitch.com 815-394-1516

4 | february 2018

theVoice

Annual Dinner (continued from front page)

Forsman also announced that the chamber board of directors voted to endorse supporting the upcoming March 20 referendum to restore Home Rule powers to the City of Rockford. “Whatever we’re doing isn’t working,” Forsman said.

“We have to be willing to try something new. We have to take that road and push it forward. I think it’s helpful (chamber endorsement) because, while you have support from elected officials, you need the support from independent groups like ours. We owe it to our chamber members to get out in front of this.”

The keynote speaker was Bill Graham, president of Graham Corporate Communications, who focused on likable leadership during his presentation.

Graham spent more than a decade as director of creative affairs for Proctor & Gamble Productions. Graham spoke about “The Power of Likable Leadership,” explaining how business leaders can better connect with their customers and staff through simple techniques like monitoring your facial expressions and tone of voice.

“It was a simple, straightforward message. It was provocative,” said Forsman. “That’s what we like to do with these things. We don’t want to overwhelm anyone.”

Recognized during the dinner were outgoing chamber board members Dr. Rena Cotsones (Northern Illinois University), Pat Shaw (RSM), and Patrick Morrow (Alpine Bank). Incoming board members are Udaya Talwar (Woodward), Elizabeth Lee (Greenlee Textron), Sue Schrieber (Mercyhealth), Kimberly Blascoe (Wipfi LLP), and Doug Curry (Stenstrom Excavation and Blacktop Group).

OSF HealthCare was the presenting sponsor of the dinner. In lieu of giveaways, OSF made donations to two local organizations, Keeping Families and Communities Together (K-FACT) and Youth Build, a program of Comprehensive Community Solutions, Inc. Representatives from the organizations were guests of OSF at the dinner. Other sponsors were Associated Bank, Ticomix, Inc., Quartz, The Alliance, AT&T, RSM US LLP and Event Floral. theVoice

Let your Voice be heard 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

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.

theVoice

february 2018 | 5

Lower tax rate anticipated for Rockford Park District

Reduction in recreational services will be necessary The Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners approved the 2018 budget, and for the fourth year in a row, will hold the line on taxes and maintain the 2017 tax levy.

“The path to increased property values begins with the collective effort of all local taxing bodies working together to hold the line on taxes,” said Ian Linnabary, president, Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners. The resulting tax rate is estimated to decrease from last year’s tax rate of $1.1544 to $1.1362. The district is faced with another $1 million deficit, which is reflected in the 2018 operating budget. It has had to make tough yet strategic decisions regarding recreational opportunities for 2018.

2018 Modification of Programs and Services ■ Not operating Forest City Queen and Trolley Car 36 for 2018 season.

■ Closing Sand Park Pool for 2018 season and closing Harkins Aquatic Center two weeks earlier.

■ Reduction of one week of the free Music in the Park Summer Concert Series (eight weeks vs. nine weeks).

■ Elimination of indoor swimming lessons.

■ Elimination of one youth day camp called Tween Scene/Summer Blast.

■ Expanding hours of operation at Washington Park Community Center to invest in area youth.

■ Increased support for Rockford Park District police.

2018 Revenue Adjustments ■ Video gaming at select locations.

■ Select pricing increases in programs and rental opportunities.

■ Increased foundation support.

2018 Expense Reductions ■ Elimination of four open full-time positions by attrition and restructuring.

■ Elimination of event parking services for community partner events.

■ Elimination of support to community centers for ground maintenance; reduction in contractual mowing.

■ Savings from lower utility, gas and health insurance costs.

2018 Budget Q&A Why close Sand Park Pool versus Alpine Pool or Harkins Aquatics Center for 2018? Closing Sand Park Pool for the

2018 season will save the district nearly $88,000. A variety of repairs was needed at Penguin Pond, along with repairs to the baby pool, amounting to $40,000.

The district also spends roughly $48,000 to operate Sand Park Pool every summer, and attendance for Learn to Swim lessons and general admission have declined.

Remediation of the former Sand Park landfill will continue over the next two years, particularly along the entire eastern portion of the Sand Park pool property.

Remediation will include a new parking lot, along with removing the driving range and sledding hill, which will be converted to a nature preserve. Keeping Alpine Pool and Harkins Aquatic Center open is the best geographical balance to provide swimming and lesson opportunities.

Why dock the Forest City Queen and not run Trolley Car 36 for 2018? The Forest City Queen needs roughly $40,000 in repairs to the hull, and Trolley Car 36 needs $10,000 in repairs. The district also spends $17,200 in tax subsidies to operate both. We were able to save roughly $70,000. Also over the years, attendance has declined.

Are all construction projects on hold? Some projects will continue to progress if they are well supported by the community, meet the growing demands of the community and are good business decisions that are primarily funded via donors, sponsors or non-tax revenue support. For example, the Rockford Bank & Trust Pavilion is possible thanks to generous partners and will generate an estimated $150,000 of profit yearly, which will be reinvested into Aldeen Golf Club.

Property tax revenue and golf fees will not sustain Aldeen Golf Club at the same service level in the future. The Rockford Park District anticipates that 20+ golf events as well as other non-golf events will use Rockford Bank & Trust Pavilion.

Why is the Park District looking to add video gaming at select facilities?

With declining revenue both through fees and a declining tax base, along with population and demographic shifts, it is becoming extremely difficult to provide the same level of service without an increase in new revenue or a decrease in our footprint.

Park districts across the country as well as other local municipalities have added gaming machines as a non-tax generated revenue stream. At this point, we are exploring a variety of locations for gaming machines such as Mercyhealth Sportscore Complexes, district golf courses, UW Health Sports Factory and ice facilities.

MASTER PLAN ENGAGEMENT SESSIONS BEGIN IN MARCH The district will launch a master plan to engage the community to determine district priorities and allocation of resources of taxpayer dollars over the next three to five years. A final master plan is expected to be presented to the community in the summer of 2018.

6 | february 2018

 Destination

theVoice

ILLINOIS, USA

ADDING WEALTH TO THE REGION’S ECONOMY BY GROWING TOURISM

Vacation dreamers: If you plan it, you will go

Here at RACVB, we’re serious about recreation and leisure – on and off the job. Our stock-in-trade, so to speak, is helping people enjoy the region’s natural resources, historic attractions, entertainment, special events and sports venues.

We’re just as mindful about how to make the most of our own leisure time. We hope to help you and your work colleagues do the same with a “Project Time Off: Plan for Vacation Day” campaign we’ve just launched in the community. It’ll be fun, but it’s serious business, too. Vacations are not only good for the individual’s mind, body and spirit, they also benefit the company’s bottom line.

Thanks to the prompting of National Plan for Vacation Day, which was Tuesday, Jan. 30, I’ve booked my vacation days for 2018 and have encouraged my co-workers here at RACVB to do the same. Now, when winter doldrums threaten, we can picture ourselves biking, boating, golfing or hiking at locales near and far, knowing that those daydreams will be fact, not fantasy. Anticipation is part of the fun.

Make a Plan for Fun Vacation shouldn’t be an afterthought, yet, too often, it is. That vaunted American work ethic is alive and well. Did you know that 662 MILLION vacation days go unused annually in this country? In fact, more than half of Americans leave vacation days on the table at the end of the year.

Those unused vacation days cost the U.S. economy $236 billion in 2016 due to lost spending, enough to support 1.8 million American jobs.

It doesn’t have to happen. Research shows that vacation planners are vacation takers. People who take their earned time off are happier, more productive employees who report better health, better work satisfaction and better social and family relationships.

Companies benefit, too. The vast majority of senior managers – 91 percent – believe people come back from vacation renewed and ready to work more effectively. Yet, lack of support and encouragement from management is the main reason workers say they don’t take their paid time off. It’s time to talk!

What’s Your Best-Day Scenario?

To get the conversation started, the RACVB has asked five interesting area residents to create one-day itineraries

for

different

seasons featuring

John Groh Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

things they like to do in our community. They are Zak Rotello, Ben Chauvin, Zina Horton, Angel Martinez and James Purifoy.

All have been featured in “Our City, Our Story” videos, an award-winning project of Rockford filmmaker Pablo Korona. These five people know and love the Rockford area. They have put together exciting all-day adventures that are worth replicating.

You can find their creative itineraries and watch their videos at gorockford. com.

In addition, we invite area residents to submit their own sample itineraries at info@gorockford com. What’s your best-day-ever scenario? With an entire day stretching before you, what would you do to make the most of it? Write it down and send it to us.

Your best-day itinerary could be featured in a GoRockford social media post, and you could win a Plan for Vacation Day prize package.

For the socially minded among us, we’ll be using these hashtags/tags for the campaign: #PlanForVacation, @ ProjectTimeOff and #GoRockford. It’s a great way to share your own best-day plans with followers and get some new ideas, too.

Believe me, I’ll be looking at the Plan for Vacation Day itineraries and trying them out during some of the vacation days that already are on my 2018 calendar.

For more information about the national Project Time Off: Plan for Vacation Day movement — and to access a handy planning tool — go to www.projecttimeoff.com. Planning out the entire year may require a meeting of your work group so that scheduling is fair to all and meets everyone’s needs.

You can do that.

It’s time to get serious about fun.

John Groh is president/CEO of the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. The mission of the RACVB is to drive quality of life and economic growth for our citizens through tourism marketing and destination development. www.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 2018 | 7

Young Professionals ignite

Put down the Nutella and start adulting IGNITE launches new practical series in 2018 In 2018, IGNITE is launching a new series with an ever-popular name – Adulting 101. I have no idea when the word “adult” became a verb, but it’s the world we now live in. My Leadership Team really went back and forth on the name. Some thought it was the perfect title as it got the essence of the series across perfectly. (For those not sure, Adulting 101 refers to skills you should have by the time you are an adult, but have not yet learned – skills needed to be a true “adult.”) Others thought it was condescending and demeaning towards Millennials, casting their true accomplishments in the same category as not eating Nutella for dinner.

To be honest, I was torn. I thought the name was cheeky and fun, but also understand that with all of the stereotypes Millennials face, playing up our inability to do something that Baby Boomers and some Gen Xers would consider remedial probably wouldn’t help our “take us seriously!” platform I so often preach.

Asking Questions … and Learning In the end, the Leadership Team decided the name was perfect for our target audience (Millennials) and decided to shrug their shoulders to the ones who didn’t get it. If the name didn’t resonate with a particular person, the programming probably wouldn’t either. The marketing side of my brain agreed with the reasoning, and I moved on.

But, I’ve been thinking more about the series in general. Why would anyone look down upon any group of people admitting there were areas they weren’t quite sure about?

This year, the Adulting 101 series will feature sessions on financial literacy (think: understanding 401ks, investments and financial planning); the homebuying process; understanding how City Council meetings work; how to negotiate, and how to perform basic car maintenance.

IGNITE is not the only organization

hosting events like this. Across the country, civic organizations, young professional organizations, colleges, public libraries and more are hosting these types of sessions. The frequency of these sessions across the nation points to a country-wide yearning to dig deeper into areas that are assumed known by all.

But really. Let’s be honest. How many “adults” can really tell you all about the difference between a 401k and a Roth IRA? How many can explain the basics of homebuying process before they’ve actually gone through it (and perhaps even after)? How many people don’t immediately panic when their check engine soon light comes on? And who’s really so up-to-date with the workings of the City Council that they can easily determine where to appropriately take a new idea or issue they want to see implemented or fixed in our city?

Why does being an adult imply that we know it all? What’s wrong with asking questions, learning more or admitting we have no idea how

something that isn’t

intuitive

works? Perhaps

Caitlin Pusateri Rockford Chamber

as adults we would get a whole lot more done if we were all willing to ask more questions, admit when we don’t know something, and be energized and willing to learn.

I’m excited to really dig into some important topics over 2018. Some I’m more familiar with, but some are relatively foreign to me. Perhaps it’s child-like to shrug my shoulders and say “I just don’t get it” when it comes to some of these things; but, I think it’s pretty awesome that I now have an outlet to figure it out.

Perhaps I’ll bring Nutella – after all, some of these events will be over the dinner hour.

Caitlin Pusateri is vice president, leadership development at the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

8 | february 2018

theVoice

Groundbreaking for new downtown market to open year round The closing of one indoor market in Rockford heralds the opening next year of an enhanced one to remain open all year round.

Rock River Development Partnership is closing the Rockford Indoor Market to make way for a $5.2 million development that will transform the building at 114-116118 Madison St., into a year-round market.

Estimates are that 130 construction and permanent jobs will be created through the new downtown development.

The indoor market will provide a variety of community uses with a market hall, permanent tenants and a shared-use commercial kitchen for entrepreneurs -all of which will complement the Rockford City Market held in the adjacent pavilion in summer and fall.

Funding for Project Project financing includes funding Home Kitchen Regulations HB 3063/PA 100-0035 Seeks to address challenges facing farmers’ market vendors, and seeks to implement safe, fair and consistent regulations throughout the state. With relation to farmers’ markets, in the Home Kitchen Operation section, provides baked goods and only high-acid fruit pies are allowed. Under the Cottage Food Operation section, removes a list of non-potentially hazardous foods allowed, and includes a list of prohibited foods. Adds a statement regarding safety to the cottage food operation application.

Allowed baked goods: Breads, cookies, cakes, pies, and pastries, but only high-acid fruit pies that use the following fruits: apple, apricot, grape, peach, plum, quince, orange, nectarine, tangerine, blackberry, raspberry, blueberry, boysenberry, cherry, cranberry, strawberry, red currants, or a combination of these fruits.

Prohibited food and drink: A cottage food operation may produce homemade food and drink, but unless properly licensed, certified and compliant with all requirements,

from the City of Rockford, Southside Community Optimal Redevelopment Enterprise, Rockford Bank and Trust, US Bank and Twain Financial Partners.

Rock River Development Partnership also provided equity and received generous contributions from workplace and Peter and Heather Provenzano to get the project to the finish line. In addition to federal and state historic tax credit investments, the Rockford Indoor Market project includes a highly competitive federal New Markets Tax Credit allocation, a first for Rockford.

“By using funds that are specifically designated for redevelopment, we believe we are giving many local small business owners a great chance to succeed,” said Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara.

Groundbreaking will take place early this year. shall not sell or offer to sell the following food items or processed foods containing: ■ meat, poultry, fish, seafood or shellfish.

■ dairy, except as an ingredient in a non-potentially hazardous baked good or candy, such as caramel.

■ eggs, except as an ingredient in a non-potentially hazardous baked good or in dry noodles.

■ pumpkin pies, sweet potato pies, cheesecakes, custard pies, creme pies and pastries with potentially hazardous fillings or toppings.

■ garlic in oil.

■ canned foods, except for fruit jams, fruit jellies, fruit preserves, fruit butters and acidified vegetables.

■ sprouts ■ cut leafy greens, except for leafy greens that are dehydrated or blanched and frozen.

■ cut fresh tomato or melon.

■ dehydrated tomato or melon.

■ frozen cut melon.

■ wild-harvested, non-cultivated mushrooms.

■ alcoholic beverages.

theVoice

february 2018 | 9

Issues to Watch legislative

New Illinois laws for 2018

The state of Illinois has 217 new laws that took effect on Jan. 1, 2018.

For more details on any of the following, visit www.ilga.gov.

DOC Video Visitation HB 2738/PA 100-0030 States all Department of Corrections’ institutions and facilities must permit every committed person to receive in-person visitors and video contact, if available, except in cases of abuse of the visiting privilege or when the chief administrative officer determines that such visiting would be harmful or dangerous.

Tax Credits, Deductions and Other Changes SB 9/PA 100-0022 Creates the State Tax Lien Registration Act to provide a uniform statewide system for filing notices of tax liens that are enforced by the department. Creates the Revised Uniform Unclaimed Property Act (RUUPA), which is a complete repeal of the Uniform Disposition of Unclaimed Property Act and replaces it with the RUUPA. The bill contains new and revised definitions; rules on applicability; presumption of abandoned property; process to take custody of such property; reporting requirements; notice to property owner; custody guidelines; sale and administration of property; claims, liability, enforcement and remedies; agreements to locate property; transitional provisions; and fines and fee.

Increases the Earned Income Tax Credit to 14 percent of the federal tax credit beginning Jan. 1, 2017, and then 18 percent of the federal tax credit beginning Jan. 1, 2018.

Increases the Education Expense Credit to $750 for tax years ending

on or after Dec. 31, 2017. Provides an income limit for taxpayers claiming this credit: $500,000 for joint filers and $250,000 for all other taxpayers.

Also implements an income limit for taxpayers claiming the standard deduction: $500,000 for joint filers and $250,000 for all other taxpayers.

Unfit to Stand Trial Placement HB 649/PA 100-0027 Expedites transfers of inmates unfit to stand trial from county jails to the Department of Human Services mental health facilities. Gives DHS 20 days to tell sheriffs where to take inmates who are unfit to stand trial or not guilty by reason of insanity. If DHS fails to identify a mental health facility within 20 days, sheriffs can then put DHS on notice that they will take defendants to the nearest facility. The department would then have two days to provide an estimated date for admission to a facility.

Breastfeeding Students HB 2369/PA 100-0029 Requires public schools (including charters and Chicago Public Schools) to provide reasonable accommodations to a lactating student on a school campus to express breast milk, breastfeed an infant child or address other needs related to breastfeeding. Defines reasonable accommodations. Also provides that a lactating pupil must be provided a reasonable amount of time to accommodate her need to express milk or breastfeed her infant child.

Schools are only required to provide these accommodations if there is a lactating pupil on campus, and they may use an existing facility to meet the requirements of the legislation.

ILLINOIS WORKERS’ COMPENSATION COMMISSION The Insurance Compliance Division of the Workers’ Compensation Commission, which enforces the mandatory insurance provisions of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, issued a reminder that employers with one employee, even a part-time employer, must provide workers’ compensation insurance. This includes family members of the owner(s) who are employed by the company.

Sole proprietors, corporate officers, business partners and members of limited liability companies may elect to come under the act or they may choose not to (except for employers in extra-hazardous occupations, such as construction and trucking).

Employers that knowingly and willfully fail to provide workers’ compensation insurance may be fined up to $500 for every day of noncompliance, with a minimum fine of $10,000. Additionally, corporate officers who are found to have negligently failed to provide insurance are guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. For more information, call 312-816-6611 or www.iwcc.il.gov.

10 | february 2018

R O C K F O R D

theVoice • rockfordchamber.com

C H A M B E R

O F

C O M M E R C E

Small Business Enterprise Do what GOT you here! What I learned in first year of business Posted high on my new bulletin board above my desk, “Do what GOT you here!” is my mantra for 2018. This year should have been the 20th anniversary of my first company, Miller & Buettner, Inc., Instead, we just celebrated the first anniversary of 2HB Human Resources & Benefits Solutions, a one-year-old start-up firm.

When I was 35 years old, my mother and I launched Miller & Buettner, Inc., a unique, mother-daughter benefits consulting firm; a female-owned firm in a male-dominated industry. Back in 2012, after eight years of pursuit, we “drank the Kool-Aid” of a large, national brokerage firm and became a merger-partner.

Four-and-a-half years later, I launched my own company again.

Now at 53, when most people are starting to think of their exit strategy, I decided instead to reinvent the Miller & Buettner brand. Over the last year, we’ve learned a lot of strategies that helped make our first year a success.

Rockford Chamber Resources Many new businesses might question the value of investing in a chamber membership as you are trying to get off the ground and keep expenses down.

The Rockford Chamber offered a multitude of resources as we launched our new business. First, we marketed our company via the web site and web resources while working on our own web design. Chamber President Einar Forsman

Now costs less in Illinois to form an LLC The Rockford Chamber was part of a collaborative effort led by the Small Business Advisory Council (SBAC) to lower Illinois’ high LLC fees.

“We at the chamber agreed that the previous fees could serve as a barrier to those thinking of starting a business, and that the fees were unreasonable for that purpose,” said Einar Forsman, Rockford Chamber president & CEO. The effort met with success when on Dec. 20, 2017, Governor Bruce Rauner signed SB867 into law, which immediately lowered the filing and operating fees for limited liability companies (LLCs) across the board. “This issue resonated with small business owners throughout Illinois,” said Elliot Richardson, founder and CEO of the SBAC. “These fees have been significantly reduced and now match the fees Illinois’ corporations pay.”

and his team of ambassadors hosted our ribbon cutting and grand opening. We spoke at the Business Women’s Council and attended networking events.

The membership fee more than paid for itself with access to Chamber mailing lists and internet search engine enhancements. Now, with the new Small Business Development unit, it offers even more resources for new ventures.

references. Most

Here’s More We Learned

great examples of what other new clients

■ Attract New Clients with Informational Seminars. For the past year we hosted more than a dozen informational seminars on compliance, benefits and HR information for clients and prospects. Putting the “information” twist on your offerings keeps clients and prospects up to date and makes them look knowledgeable in front of their own bosses.

new client, an HR manager, hired us

■ The Silver Lining of a NonCompete. As onerous as a non-compete can be – there is a silver lining. Rather than resting on an existing book of business, we were forced to take the “Star Trek” approach – to “boldly go where no one has gone before.” Our team explored every networking opportunity, asked for referrals from former clients and spoke at every event that showed an interest.

After a year of pushing 10-to-12-hour days, starting with Rockford Chamber breakfasts and ending with a client dinner, we started gaining momentum as word got out about our new company.

■ Don’t Be Shy About Asking for Referrals. Current or former clients want you to succeed and will be great

of our new clients in 2017 from

came

referrals

or our business network.

■ Case Studies &

Referrals.

Laurie S. Miller 2HB Human Resources & Benefits Solutions

Case studies from satisfied clients are can expect from your new company. A in mid-2017 to drive savings, provide an employee online open enrollment experience and be a true partner in her success in her new role. She achieved more than $200,000 in savings for her medical renewal, a two-year rate guarantee, 100 percent online enrollment and on-boarding, and additional savings from dental, vision, life and disability.

Do What Got You Here I’m glad this first year is under our belts. It’s been more hours, more work and more challenging then I had anticipated.

It’s also been more rewarding.

If you’re contemplating a new venture in 2018, make the Rockford Chamber your first stop. You’ll cut precious time off your “ramp-up” cycle and get a jump start on the rewards of business ownership.

Laurie S. Miller, MBA, is president of 2HB Human Resources & Benefits Solutions.

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

ABOUT THE SBDC The Illinois SBDC at the Rockford Chamber of Commerce offers services free of charge to aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners in the Rockford area, both chamber members and non-members. As a partnership between the Rockford Chamber and the Illinois DCEO, it operates out of NIU EIGERlab, NIU-Rockford, 8500 E. State St., and maintains an office at the chamber’s downtown location. For questions, contact Bo Boger, SBDC director, at 815-316-4301.

theVoice • rockfordchamber.com

february 2018 | 11

Customization of TechWorks onsite training improves outcomes A banner that reads “Lundin Learning Center” hangs in the machining lab at TechWorks, located at 4151 Samuelson Road Center. TechWorks, a Rock Valley College-accelerated, foundational skills training program, is a seven-week class that provides skills and credentials needed to qualify for Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine operator and setup jobs. It has been managed by Rock Valley College since March 2015, but was the vision of founder Jon W. Lundin back in the 1990s.

TechWorks continues to operate through the mission that Lundin created, which was helping people who are unemployed, under employed, starting out, changing jobs or career paths, and providing them with the foundational skills for CNC mill, lathe setup and operation.

Students enrolled in the program receive instruction and training in soft skills, including how to write a resume and interviewing skills. In addition to blueprint reading, shop math, universal blueprint symbols and machine programming language, they also receive hands-on experience working with the CNC machines. Students who successfully pass the National Institute for Metalworking Skills exam receive credentials in Measurement, Materials & Safety and CNC Mill or Lathe Programming Setup & Operations.

To date, TechWorks has issued approximately 600 credentials, with the majority of students receiving two credentials each. The NIMS credential is recognized both regionally and nationally by the manufacturing industry.

TechWorks graduates have bright futures, and the job outlook is promising.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of computercontrolled machine tool operators is expected to grow by 15 percent and CNC machine tool programming jobs

may increase by 28 percent between 2018 and 2022. In comparison, the projected growth for all occupations is 11 percent.

The CNC operator job is one of very few occupations experiencing growth.

TechWorks Onsite Training The flexibility and expert training team at TechWorks allows companies to get their training needs met onsite.

Improved outcomes from onsite training are accomplished through a customized

curriculum, which includes employees being trained on their own equipment.

Issues that employees are experiencing with equipment or products can be resolved accurately and efficiently as the employee and TechWorks trainer work together towards a solution.

Gunite, the oldest foundry in Rockford, has contracted with TechWorks annually to assist with training for its Op 2 technicians. Gunite’s Human Resource Manager, Ron Teliszczak, says,

Manufacturers in the News Rock Valley College’s Cold Forming Training Center at 424 Buckbee St., Rockford, received a $20,000 donation from the Fastener Education Foundation for instructional materials, machinery maintenance, student recruitment and marketing. The foundation gave $25,000 to the training center in 2017.

“The growth and success of the Rock Valley Cold Heading Training Center is vitally important to the fastener industry,” said Preston Boyd, current Industrial Fasteners Institute chairman and Fastener Education Foundation board member. “Market fluctuations continue to disrupt existing fastener supply chains. Economic recovery is creating opportunities within industry segments dependent on fasteners. Domestic fastener manufacturers are scrambling to find skilled labor to handle the increased demand for their products.

“The program here at Rock Valley affords the fastener industry the chance to partner with the Rockford community to put this area back on the map as the Fastener Capital of the World.”

Rockford Systems, LLC, has expanded its machine safeguarding curriculum to include new training courses authorized by the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), which aim to increase worker knowledge about their rights, employer responsibilities and how to recognize, abate and prevent machinery-related hazards.

The program will consist of three courses: OSHA 10-Hour General Industry, OSHA 30-Hour General Industry and OSHA 1910.1200 Hazard Communication, and will be led by Brent Bryden, safety instructor for the National Safety Education Center at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb.

Technology advancements in machinery, automation and robotics are moving rapidly. As is the case with many fast-changing industries, a skills gap is emerging in manufacturing where employees do not have enough knowledge to address basic safety issues. By offering the OSHA-authorized courses, Rockford Systems hopes to bring basic safety awareness to machine operators and a more advanced curriculum to employees with safety responsibilities in their workplace. Visit rockfordsystems.com.

“Our training relationship with TechWorks is critical for our internal skill development.

Having the Bernie Luecke training RVC BPI executed onsite keeps costs down with continuous success since the employees are being trained in their own environment.”

Some companies have employees who are in need of additional training or refresher training that is applicable to their business operation. Ford Tool in Loves Park, specializing in metalworking and precision machining for more than 40 years, also utilizes onsite training from TechWorks. “Gordy Blaisdell does a great job of understanding our exact needs and customizing the curriculum to meet those needs,” says Ford Tool’s Human Resource Coordinator, Ginger Elsasser.

“They were able to accommodate our production schedule and provide training on Tuesdays and Thursdays for two hours starting at 7 a.m., for a total of 10 weeks.”

On-site training needs are determined after an evaluation meeting between the TechWorks training team and the customer. The curriculum, training schedule and required materials are confirmed in a proposal and agreed upon by both parties.

If you are interested in learning more about the onsite training that TechWorks offers or register for the next class, please call Bernie Luecke at 815-921-2067 or e-mail B.Luecke@RockValleyCollege.edu.

Bernie Luecke is director of the Business & Professional Institute at Rock Valley College.

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

Manufacturing News is sponsored by Rock Valley College

12 | ahead of the curve: Health Innovations

Reclaiming lung health

february 2018 • theVoice • rockfordchamber.com

Tobacco use accounts for nearly half a million deaths in the United States each year, according to the American Lung Association.

Since 1964, smoking-related illnesses have claimed 20 million lives in the U.S. 2.5 million of which belonged to nonsmokers who developed diseases from secondhandsmoke exposure.

The economic and societal costs of smoking also are large. Every year, Americans spend more than $300 billion in medical care and lost productivity and economic opportunity. There are an estimated 36.5 million tobacco users in the United States. WalletHub calculated the potential monetary

losses — including the lifetime and annual costs of a cigarette pack per day, health care expenditures, income losses and other costs — brought on by smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.

The Financial Cost of Smoking in Illinois

Out-of-Pocket Cost per Smoker – $141,660 Financial-Opportunity Cost per Smoker – $1,190,008

(Calculated by the amount of return a person would have earned by instead investing that money in the stock market over the same period.)

Health-Care Cost per Smoker – $179,902 Income Loss per Smoker – $241,520

Previous studies have shown that smoking can lead to loss of income, either because of absenteeism, workplace bias or lower productivity due to smoking-related health problems. A recent study from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta found that smokers earn 20 percent less than nonsmokers, eight percent of which is attributed to smoking and 12 percent to other factors.

Other Costs per Smoker – $12,078

Nonsmokers are generally entitled to a homeowner’s insurance credit of between five and 15 percent, according to the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America.

Wallethub also took into account the costs for victims of secondhand-smoke exposure.

Total Cost Over Lifetime per Smoker: $1,765,168 Total Cost per Year per Smoker: $34,611

PROTECTING AGAINST SECOND LEADING CAUSE FOR LUNG CANCER The Winnebago County Health Department (WCHD), in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Health Protection Agency (EPA), is urging residents to test their homes for radon, the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.

Winnebago County is “at risk” for high levels of radon gas due to the geology in the area, and two out of five homes have high levels.

Invisible, odorless and tasteless, radon gas is produced through the natural process of radioactive decay from uranium deposits found in rock, soil and water. Normally it’s dispersed in the air, but can reach harmful levels when trapped in indoor buildings.

It’s responsible for more than 20,000 lung cancer deaths per year according to the U.S. EPA. “Radon levels are typically highest in basements, which many families use for living space, exercise or kids’ play areas,” said Todd Marshall, director of environmental health improvement for the WCHD. Testing your home for radon is simple, inexpensive and can save lives. Homeowners can purchase an AirChek Radon Test Kit or check-out a loaner Radon Gas Monitor from the WCHD. Contact Sheila Jascemskas, radon specialist, at 815-720-4125 or www.wchd.org.

february 2018 • theVoice • rockfordchamber.com

ahead of the curve: Health Innovations | 13

Progress post-FastPitch: Grand prize winner’s launch

By Sherry Pritz, NIU EIGERlab It has been said that necessity is the mother of invention. Such was the case for Dr. Trevor Gibbs, an anesthesiologist who was often frustrated by a lack of space for his equipment during surgery. Since he began practicing in 2007, he has been thinking about a better way to organize and hold all the supplies necessary to put patients to sleep in a hygienic and organized manner. After eight years, Gibbs said to himself, “That’s it, I don’t know how, but I’m going to figure out a way to invent a device.”

During a recent Thinker Venture podcast, Gibbs reflected on his entrepreneurial journey so far.

Building a Team His first call after completing his Internet research led him to SCORE — the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors. He first connected with a mentor who had engineering experience. With his SCORE mentor’s referrals in hand, the following day he met with an intellectual property (IP) attorney. His next step was to begin a relationship with NIU EIGERlab.

Mike Cobert of NIU EIGERlab’s Center for Product Development talked with Gibbs about what he wanted to do

and connected him with an engineer who could help.

In talking with other inventors in the medical field, Gibbs was assured that the NIU EIGERlab and SCORE professionals were valuable and credible partners. He’d heard horror stories of manufacturers closing their doors; keeping the inventor’s IP and expensive molds with no further communication.

He was thankful for referrals to experts with strong reputations.

Today, Gibbs is the proud winner of the 2017 FastPitch Competition, has completed more field testing and plans to launch Anestand in June. But he says this device is only the beginning.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed the product development process, and I envision Anestand not to be just a solo product, but a line of medical products,” he said. “The operating room is my inspiration where I can validate and measure my concepts. I plan to continue on the entrepreneurial path, and in the future, I envision working part-time in my practice, in addition to promoting my inventions and running my business on a part-time basis.”

Advice for Other Entrepreneurs During the product development process, Gibbs was surprised by the

In June, Dr. Trevor Gibbs, an anesthesiologist and winner of the 2017 FastPitch Competition, plans to launch Anestand, his solution for organizing surgical supplies. amount of time and money required.

He envisioned the Anestand would be available to purchase within one year, and he would be able to develop the product for approximately $30,000 — both have doubled.

Gibbs is happy to encourage others to follow their entrepreneurial goals and has some advice to offer from his personal experience. The most important? Protect your idea. Be sure to do market research — are you the only person with this problem? Consider your situation: Do you have the time and money to invest to get your product developed and into the marketplace? Finally, consider your corporate structure; look ahead in case you plan to sell.

“Being new to the business world, this process has been a bit stressful,” Gibbs said. “But it’s gratifying to develop an

idea and see it work in a way that solves your problem and helps others.”

NIU EIGERlab embraces startups and supports entrepreneurs such as Dr. Trevor Gibbs along the pathway toward success. Programming and services are in place at two NIU EIGERlab locations to assist startups and existing businesses — entrepreneurs in all phases. To learn more about how NIU EIGERlab can help you develop your idea or grow your business, visit www.EIGERlab.org or call 815-753-2192.

Sherry Pritz is marketing & events coordinator/ business development at NIU EIGERlab Innovation Network.

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

14 | ahead of the curve: Health Innovations

february 2018 • theVoice • rockfordchamber.com

National Health survey reveals Americans’ dietary habits The National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), which helps guide public health and health policy decisions, released its National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey of a nationally representative sample of 5,000 persons of all ages. To produce reliable statistics, the survey oversampled African American, Asian American and Hispanic persons, and persons over age 60. Dietary data were collected via 24-hour dietary recall.

Recent Findings Energy intake and sources of energy for U.S. adults. In 2013 to 2014, on average men and women consumed 2,477 and 1,825 calories on a given day. The contribution to total calories consumed from fat, carbohydrate and protein on a given day were 34%, 47% and 16% for men and 34%, 49% and 16% for women.

Sugar-sweetened beverages. The 2015 to 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend reducing added sugars consumption to less than 10 percent of daily calories and specifically to choose beverages with no added sugars.

Almost two-thirds of U.S. youth, 2 to 19 years of age, and approximately one-half of adults, aged 20 years and over, consumed at least one sugar-sweetened beverage on a given day in 2011 to 2014. The consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages was more common among males compared with females among both adults and children.

In 2011 to 2014, U.S. adults and youth (aged 2 to 19 years) consumed an average of approximately 145 calories from sugarsweetened beverages on a given day (i.e., about 7% of their total caloric intake).

Additional Nutrition Findings Most children and adults do not eat enough dietary fiber. The mean dietary fiber intake by Americans aged 2 years and older, excluding breastfed children, was 16 grams on a given day; fiber intake of adult men and women on a given day was 18 and 15 grams, respectively. Dietary fiber intake was positively associated with income.

Many children drink caffeinated beverages. During 2013 to 2014, 67.0% of children aged 2 to 19 years consumed caffeine on a given day. The percentage of children consuming caffeine on a given day increases with age: 55.3% of children aged 2 to 5 years, 69.1% of children aged 6 to 11 years, and 70.7% of children aged 12 to 19 years.

Many calories from snacks. In 2013 to 2014, about one-quarter of total calories consumed by U.S. children and adult men or women on a given day were from consumption of snacks.

Most adults consume more sodium than recommended. In 2013 to 2014, the average consumption of sodium exceeded the maximum daily limit (under 2300 milligrams) for both children (aged 2 to 19 years) and adults (aged 20 years and over) regardless of their sex.

theVoice • rockfordchamber.com

february 2018 | 15

I currently subscribed to an e-newsletter put out by VitalSmarts — an organization our next RLA speaker, Joseph Grenny, is a large part of. Each edition, they answer a question in almost a Dear-Abby format. I usually find them interesting, insightful and helpful. This edition was no exception. While the issue at hand is between spouses, I think a very similar tactic could be used between employees. Take a read and see what you think. Interested in learning more?

Subscribe to the newsletter (or read other stories) at vitalsmarts.com.

— Caitlin Pusateri, Rockford Chamber of Commerce

How to advocate for your needs with your spouse

By Joseph Grenny Dear Joseph, I love my wife dearly and enjoy spending our dinners and late nights together after our long work days and putting the kids to sleep.

However, I have learned after careful experimenting, over a few weeks now, that my wife has endless spunk, energy and interest in telling me what is on her mind — mostly work-related issues — and literally falls ill once I begin to share mine. For multiple nights, I have listened to her speak with zest for over an hour, and then when I attempt to share a thought, she says she is too tired, it is too late, remembers a sale, a forgotten chore or task, gets pains, needs a drink, a sweater, etc. So, I let my thoughts slide. But, in due time, she finds her way back to sharing what’s on her mind. Once again, I’ll listen and try again to share a thought of my own and like clockwork, on comes the pain, tiredness, thirst and anything to end it — until she starts back on her own thoughts. How would you handle it?

Signed, Shunned Dear Shunned, I’ve got good news. While some conversations have a low likelihood of success and a high likelihood of turmoil, I predict good things for yours.

Here’s why: You “love your wife dearly.” The fact that your disappointment has not turned into disconnection gives you the kind of emotional climate within which she might be able to open up with you.

You are catching it relatively early. Many people put off addressing issues until they are good and mad. Or they wait until the patterns — and their reactions to them — are so entrenched that mutual stories and justifications get deeply ingrained. You say you have been experimenting for “a few weeks.”

Good for you!

You have facts and frequency. You have good, concrete examples to share with her, so she can understand the topic you are raising, and that seem to be circumspect about describing

the frequency of the behavior without exaggeration.

The mistake you’re making is that you continue to address content rather than pattern. In other words, you’re attempting to open up conversations about your own thoughts and feelings but not addressing your real concern: the fact that she diverts the conversation when you make these attempts. That is the crucial conversation you need to hold.

The predictor of your success is your ability to come from a place of love, courage and curiosity. Love — in that you see the goodness in your wife.

Courage — in that you are willing to advocate for your own needs as strongly as you respond to hers. Curiosity — in that you have no idea why she is doing what she is doing. Surrender any stories, speculation and judgments you may have, and enter the conversation like a caring scientist — wanting to understand her behavior without personalizing it.

You might get it going as follows, “Sweetheart, I have noticed something in our conversations over the past few weeks that I’m really curious about. It

involves how you respond when I begin to talk about some of my thoughts and feelings. When you feel comfortable doing so, I’d like to describe what I’ve seen and try to understand if there is something going on for you — or that you see in me — when this happens.

When can we do that?”

Notice how I ended the invitation.

I am trying to give her enough information that she doesn’t feel blindsided. But I’m also assuming the very pattern you describe might emerge as you offer this invitation. That’s why I’m suggesting ending it with a request for an appointment, not an immediate demand. Hopefully, that gives her enough emotional flexibility to time it according to her needs.

If she fails to respond, I suggest you make two more attempts using largely the same script — so she sees that this is important enough to you that you are willing to lovingly, courageously and curiously advocate for your need to have the conversation.

If, after the third attempt, she similarly fails to respond, you have a decision to make. You need to take responsibility for your own needs.

If being able to share equally in conversation is important to you, you will need to move the conversation to the relationship level. This means that you need to let her know that this affects you to such a degree that you must find a way to address it. Be open to options she suggests. Perhaps she would prefer to do so with the help of a counselor, at a different time of day, in a different setting. But be sure to let her know that this is important enough that you want to find a way to discuss it.

I am almost as curious as you are about what is going on. I suspect when you create enough safety and demonstrate enough sincerity in desiring the conversation, you will learn something important that will help you better connect with your wonderful wife.

Sincerely, Joseph

RPD invites you to join Citizens Police Academy

Become part of a network in reducing crime Are you interested in learning more about the Rockford Police Department and becoming part of the solution in reducing crime? You are encouraged to sign up for the spring

2018

Citizens’

Police

Academy (CPA), a free course on Tuesdays, Feb. 20 to April 24, 6 to 8:30 p.m., at Rockford Police District 3, 557 S. New Towne Dr. Graduation is slated for Tuesday, April 24.

Through CPA Rockford residents will build relationships with police

and become part of a network of informed citizens who can return to their neighborhoods to organize, encourage and mobilize others as partners with the police in reducing crime in Rockford. Rockford police officers and personnel from various divisions will present problemsolving strategies for non-police officers. Classes include:

■ Lies and deception

■ Organization structure of the Rockford Police Department

departments/police. For more infor-

■ Domestic violence

@rockfordil.gov.

■ State’s Attorney ■ Gang Unit ■ K9, crime analysis ■ Forensics ■ Coroner’s Office, 911 Center and Jail To apply, visit rockfordil.gov/citymation, contact Karen.hammarberg

16 | CULTIVATING LEADERS: EDUCATION AVENUES

february 2018 • theVoice • rockfordchamber.com

A Few Words from RPS 205 Superintendent VIEWPOINT

First-year teaching challenges Veteran teachers on board; ready to help Education can be an isolating profession. Teachers share their space with dozens of students in a classroom, but they can be all alone when it comes to improving achievement and borrowing best practices from their peers.

In the Rockford Public Schools, we’re turning that around.

We have added programs designed to offer job-embedded support. That might be a cliché in the business world. In our world at RPS 205, job-embedded support has taken on a new and exciting definition.

Training occurs in our district not just when teachers go to graduate school or education conferences. Our best training happens because we built-in reflective practices in schools and classrooms, with the ultimate goal of raising student achievement: ■ We have expanded a mentoring program so 85 first-year and 48 secondyear teachers have a mentor in their own building. These mentors are veteran teachers who help problem-solve and

partner for professional development. It’s a powerful antidote to feelings of isolation and ineffectiveness, which are common among new teachers. Mentors help them realize their feelings are normal and brainstorm strategies to cope.

■ When teachers need support beyond normal first-year challenges, we have a Peer Assistance and Review program.

PAR, which is now in its third year, helps teachers struggling in the classroom improve their professional practice. The support comes from a peer — a highly trained, expert teacher. We created and sustain the program through collaboration with the teachers union. And it’s working.

At the close of the 2016-17 school year, 60 percent of teachers who completed the PAR program demonstrated proficiency.

That, in turn, has increased educational value for 4,000 students. The teachers who do not reach proficiency are able to go on to lead fulfilling careers in other fields.

■ At two schools in high-need, highpoverty neighborhoods, we are using a multi-classroom leader approach.

At Washington (formerly King) and Kishwaukee Elementary Schools, classrooms are no longer islands. They are laboratories of learning. A veteran educator and a student teacher team up at targeted grade levels to provide quick and effective intervention for any student who has lags in achievement.

■ Raising achievement is also the focus of the 23 instructional coaches hired this school year at the elementary level. These are certified teachers laser-focused on a key measure of student readiness: reading at grade level by the end of third grade.

The coaches’ job is helping teachers help students hit their targets for academic growth. We call that a growth mindset: when students believe intelligence and talent are not fixed traits but can be developed through dedication and hard work.

A tool called Measures of Academic Progress or MAP helps monitor progress three times a year, so teachers fine-tune their instruction and students own their learning.

■ All of our schools set improvement goals for the year in the SMART instructional

model. Three times a year, school leaders Dr. Ehren Jarrett review their Superintendent goals, share RPS 205 their outcomes, discuss what strategies are successful and where they still face challenges. It’s another example of laboratory schools: Every school is focused, innovative and tracking data, so we can spread ideas that work. While each school’s specific goals might look different, they are united in the same district goal: to have 60 percent of students reach their growth targets on the MAP assessment by the end of the year.

■ Another example of working together in our district is through the Quality Peer Review process. That’s when a team of teachers and building leaders visit another school. Because it’s a two-day event, the sacrifice of time is real. So is the benefit.

Both the visiting team and the school hosting the QPR learn a lot from what they see. They may have strengths they didn’t realize. Or they may have a solution right under their noses. We do 10 of these reviews a year. High schools customize it around the high school redesign model. At all levels, though, we are able to focus on key reflective questions.

If one thing defined the old way of doing education, it was “close your classroom door and get to work.” At RPS 205, we are breaking down the old ways and learning from one another.

We know we still have challenges with attainment levels, and we remain focused on raising achievement. But in our profession, we can’t privatize. We have to share our best ideas. We can’t have them locked away in one classroom or one school.

Dr. Ehren Jarrett is superintendent of Rockford Public Schools.

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

february 2018 • theVoice • rockfordchamber.com

CULTIVATING LEADERS: EDUCATION AVENUES | 17

Guest Perspective insight

Setting the course for a young person’s future Mentoring is a win-win proposition Mentoring students is a great opportunity to set a path and course of direction for their future. Think back to when you were a high school student.

Did a teacher, guidance counselor, community leader, business executive or family friend take the time to talk with you, guide you and encourage you? Probably so. This encouragement and connection made a difference in your life, and you can do the same by mentoring a student.

A recent study by Big Brothers and Sisters noted that students after just 18 months in a mentoring relationship are 52 percent less likely to skip school.

Regrettably not all students have access to mentors and role models to help guide them along their path. It is much like the conversation between Alice and the Cat from Alice in Wonderland with Alice not being sure which way to go: “Alice: Which way should I go?

Cat: That depends on where you are going.

Alice: I don’t know Cat: Then it doesn’t matter which way you go.”

The best part about mentoring is that the benefits not only affect the student but the mentor, as well. In an article

by Dr. Jean Rhodes, director of the Center for Evidence-Based Mentoring at the University of Massachusetts, she highlights the benefits mentors receive including: an improved sense of health and well-being, an enhanced self-image and sense of self-worth, a sense of feeling needed, and a feeling of being respected by others for contributing to society in an important way. More importantly, these results last a lifetime.

Proof in the Percentages Research and anecdotal support of the impact of mentoring students is widespread and overwhelmingly positive. A recent study by Big Brothers and Sisters noted that students after just 18 months in a mentoring relationship are 52 percent less likely to skip school, 46 percent less likely to begin using illegal drugs, 37 percent less likely to skip a class and 33 percent less likely to hit someone. These positive outcomes, along with increased graduation rates, improved interpersonal skills and improved behavior both at home and at school are only the beginning of the

Bethany Mead Rockford Network of Professional Women

encouraging results for mentored students.

There are already programs in place to ensure a positive mentoring relationship and to set realistic expectations for students and mentors.

For example, a web-based software called Career Cruising offers student mentoring and engagement through the unite! platform. This is available to all students in the nine school districts in northern Illinois that CEANCI serves.

This program administered by CEANCI works collaboratively with more than 200 business partners, students and educators. Registered students are able to set goals and objectives for their education and career by connecting with individuals who can offer advice and guidance. It’s a win for the students and the business community.

Working with CEANCI, Rockford Network of Professional Women is offering a professional development workshop on Wednesday, April 11 with noted author, business entrepreneur and leadership speaker, Sharon Swing.

Approximately 75 female public high school students from Winnebago, Boone and Ogle Counties will attend this workshop and receive mentoring by a Rockford Network member. This event is open to the public, as well.

Sixth century Chinese philosopher, Lao Tze is attributed with this quote, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” I encourage you to take that first step in mentoring a student.

Your guidance can set them on a positive journey through life and help them achieve success in their educational, life and career goals.

For more information on the Rockford Network of Professional Women professional development workshop, check out rockfordnetwork. org. If you are interested in mentoring area high school students or to learn more about the unite! platform, please email me at b.mead@rockvalleycollege. edu.

Bethany Mead is co-chair, Rockford Network of Professional Women Professional Development Day, and community outreach coordinator at Career Education Associates of North Central Illinois (CEANCI).

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

18 | CULTIVATING LEADERS: EDUCATION AVENUES

february 2018 • theVoice • rockfordchamber.com

Rockford University PERSPECTIVE

Guest Perspective insight

Raising up a group of strong educators

“Invest in Kids Act”

New tax credit scholarship program

Creating a career pathway for our future Dr. Eric W. Fulcomer Rockford University

In the Education Pathways program, we are collaborating with the Rockford Public Schools to accept 20 students per year at a significantly discounted tuition rate to study education.

“A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.”

– Henry Adams.

How true an observation by American historian Henry Adams.

You can most likely recall your favorite teacher, or perhaps not your most beloved teacher, but the one who challenged you and pushed you to achieve more than you thought possible. I’m immensely proud of the remarkable influence and leadership provided to our youth through the work of our alumni educators. You cannot visit a local elementary, middle or high school in this region without finding one or more Rockford University graduates on staff.

Teachers and school administrators in this region know the quality of our education program, and we are pleased to make such a strong impact on the educational landscape in northern Illinois. In the last decade, two of our graduates have been named Illinois Teacher of the Year, and we have also had graduates named Teacher of the Year in North Carolina and Wisconsin.

In addition, year after year, we find that a good number of the Golden Apple nominees and finalists are Rockford University graduates. This year, nine of the 20 finalists have degrees from Rockford University, and one additional finalist has taken coursework in our education department.

Education Pathways Program We have also made a strong commitment to the students in our region, awarding more than $2 million annually in institutional financial aid to students from this area. Recently, we have launched two initiatives to support students in the Rockford Public Schools – the Education Pathways Program and Rockford Promise.

In the Education Pathways program, we are collaborating with the Rockford Public Schools to accept 20 students per year at a significantly discounted tuition rate to study education. When fully operational, we will have 80 students at a time through this RPS program pursuing an undergraduate degree in education. These students will have been identified in middle school by RPS staff as having an

interest in a career in education and will continue on the pathway throughout high school, culminating in a dual enrollment education course through Rockford University. Once the students graduate from high school, they will enroll at the university and be supported throughout their time by RPS staff, with opportunities to receive mentorship from RPS teachers and to complete pre-student teaching and student teaching in the district.

Upon graduation, the newly minted teachers will be ready to teach in the Rockford Public Schools and will begin a graduate program in education, an M.Ed. in urban education, paid for by the district. This is a wonderful publicprivate partnership that provides opportunity to RPS students and a wellprepared group of teacher candidates each year for the district.

Rockford Promise In the first two years of our partnership with Rockford Promise, we have welcomed four students (two per year) from RPS to attend Rockford University. Between the money raised

by Rockford Promise and a scholarship from Rockford University, these students receive a full-tuition grant.

These are wonderful students who are making a significant contribution to our campus community and will be future leaders in Rockford. This fall, we have agreed to accept four new Rockford Promise scholars, doubling our commitment to this worthy project.

Our contributions in the community go well beyond our graduates in education. Rockford University is a comprehensive university with more than 80 majors, minors and programs at the undergraduate level and degrees in education and business at the graduate level. Our participation in the Education Pathways program and with Rockford Promise serve as two great examples of the way that we are making a difference in the Rockford region.

Eric. W. Fulcomer, Ph.D., is president of Rockford University.

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

Public school or private school?

Some families never get to consider that question because their families’ income levels don’t afford an option.

Until now.

Many low to moderate income families in northern Illinois and throughout the state will now be able to make a choice between public or private education after Governor Rauner signed a groundbreaking state education funding law. The Tax Credit Scholarship Program eliminates the barrier of private schools’ cost for many families.

How Does It Work?

This new legislation includes a Tax Credit Scholarship program for nonpublic schools called the “Invest in Kids Act.” For the next five years, it gives many low- to moderate-income families in Illinois the chance to receive partial to full scholarships to send their children to a non-public school of their choice. For many families, the new law opens the door to educational options that were otherwise closed.

How is it Funded?

The Tax Credit Scholarship program is funded by donors. It allows individuals and corporations to donate to “scholarship granting organizations” (SGO) and receive a 75 percent state tax credit on their income tax returns. The scholarship granting organization is a not-for-profit that uses these donations to grant scholarships to qualifying students to attend a private school of their choice. This means that if a donor gives $10,000, he or she will receive a state tax credit of $7,500. Individual donors can direct their donations to a particular school or subset of schools of their choice; however, corporations cannot designate.

How to Donate First, make a request online for a “Letter I.D.” from the state, helping confirm your identity before you make your donation. Go to www.mytax.illinois. gov and click on “Individual.” You will then see a heading, “Miscellaneous.”

Click on “Request a Letter I.D.” Once you complete the short form, you will receive your letter within seven to 10 days. You can then reserve tax credits on the Illinois Department of Revenue website. After reserving the tax credits, you will have 60 days to donate the amount you reserved to a scholarship granting organization such as Empower Illinois, which serves all the schools in our region. After the donation has

Amy Ott Boylan Catholic High School

been made, you will receive a certificate from the scholarshipgranting organization to be used when preparing your taxes.

Individuals and corporations can contribute up to $1.3 million to scholarship granting organizations over the five-year program and receive an income tax credit equal to 75 percent of their approved contributions. Those dollars are distributed geographically throughout five regions in the state unless an individual designates a particular school to receive his or her donation. Our region is region 2. The state allows up to $17.3 million in tax credits to be reserved to benefit schools in our region.

The Impact As of mid-January, 2018, region 2 already had more than $5.2 million in pledges. The joint goal of private schools in our region is to encourage individuals and corporations to support this new program and widen the door of possibilities for so many families in our region who haven’t had school options for their children until now.

School choice is not new to many states, with 30 states having some sort of school choice program and 17 of those states having tax credit scholarship programs. The academic results from these states such as Florida and Wisconsin are positive. The results show academic growth, a narrowing of achievement gaps, higher graduation rates, greater percentage of students ready for college level work, and, perhaps surprisingly, improvement in achievement at public schools, as well.

Parents in Illinois now have school choice with the Tax Credit Scholarship Program. Catholic schools and private schools in the region have joined forces to promote this new program and the benefits for students and donors. We have partnered with Empower Illinois as our scholarship granting organization.

You can find more information on the program at www.empowerillinois.org.

Join me in supporting this new program that gives families in our region the ability to choose the best school for their children’s needs.

Amy Ott, president, Boylan Catholic High School.

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

theVoice • rockfordchamber.com

february 2018 | 19

Strong Houses planted in Rockford neighborhoods Addressing the root causes of crime

By Alex Gary In 2016, after a string of altercations between police and the people they police made headlines in Alabama, California, Indiana, Minnesota, Pennsylvania and Texas, the Urban Institute surveyed African-Americans in the affected communities on what they think of the police.

The results were encouraging and depressing at the same time. More than 70 percent said they would still call the police to report a crime and more than 63 percent were willing to provide information to help find suspects. Only 30 percent, though, felt that police treat people with dignity and respect and only 29.3 percent said they believe police make decisions based on the law and not their personal opinions or beliefs.

Most people in the study said they only interacted with police when they were investigating a crime.

Strong House is Born Rockford officials were aware of that disconnect long before a string of incidents in 2015 and 2016 led to the Black Lives Matter movement. In 2012, the United Way of Rock River Valley and several city officials, including former mayor Larry Morrissey, took a trip to Racine to look at that city’s COP House program. An acronym for Community Oriented Policing, there are six houses in poor parts of Racine where police report to work every day and work with neighbors on community issues.

That led to the Strong Houses initiative.

In early 2015, the SwedishAmerican Foundation refurbished a house on Revelle Street in the Jackson Oaks neighborhood.

In December of 2016, the United Way opened a Strong House on the 900 block of Eighth Avenue in Rockford’s Midtown District and then another one on the 300 block of Irvin Avenue in the Ellis Heights neighborhood in the spring of 2016.

The goal for all three was to increase the interaction of police with the community they protect and serve. At each of the homes, two or three police are assigned to the home Monday through Friday. At the United Way homes, staffers Grant Schubert and Matthew Simpson also hold office hours there and events at night. And each year, United Way springs for a block party.

Crime is Down The results have been encouraging.

According to Schubert, who is in charge of the Eighth Avenue house, overall crime in the two subbeats that surround the house was down 19 percent in 2017.

Simpson said crime in the Irving Avenue subbeat declined 10 percent.

“We feel like creating a place for the neighborhood to come together fosters a less adversarial atmosphere between the neighborhood and police, and that leads to less crime,” Simpson said. “Most people in Rockford only see police when something bad happens.”

Of all of Rockford’s issues, crime is perhaps the one that creates most of the negative headlines about the city.

Several times each year, one group or another comes out with a “Most Dangerous City” list. The latest example is on Jan. 19, when www.247wallst.com released its “25 Most Dangerous Cities” with Rockford coming in at No. 5. This ranking aggregated data on Rockford’s 2016 violent crime rate, number of murders, poverty rate and jobless rate.

Only Baltimore, Md.; Memphis, Tenn.; St. Louis, Mo., and Detroit, Mich., were judged to be more dangerous.

Creative Problem Solving Shubert said the Strong Houses have led to other initiatives. They learned that funding for after-school programs at two elementaries had run out, leaving families with no other options. They worked quickly to re-open the programs. They also discovered that both houses were part of “food deserts.” There were no fresh food grocery stores nearby, which is a big issue in neighborhoods where reliable transportation is a problem.

Shubert worked with Chicago-based Top Box Foods, a nonprofit, to bring discounted frozen meats and fresh fruit and vegetables to those neighborhoods once a month. Top Box makes stops at churches in Machesney Park and two in Rockford. On average, about 60 families are taking advantage of the program each month with hopes those numbers go up as more in the neighborhood learn the schedule.

“We walk around these neighborhoods,” Shubert said. “We go to the same stores. It’s not a fly-by situation where we drive through and then come back to our downtown office.”

Paul Logli, United Way executive

A Top Box Foods volunteer waits for customers at Zion Lutheran Church, 925 Fifth Ave., Rockford.

The United Way of Rock River Valley’s Strong House on the 300 block of Irving Avenue.

director, said the main cost to launch the program was up front when they had to repair the houses which had been foreclosed on and were in awful shape. Zion Development holds title to the properties, the United Way pays rent and Rockford Police covers much of the utilities.

Logli said he believes the houses have brought stability to those neighborhoods. He’s had discussions with the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office to open a Strong House in Machesney Park, in the old North Park

area north of Harlem Middle School. He believes there are other neighborhoods in Rockford that could benefit as well.

“Everything with Rockford is kind of on hold because they are looking into this ROCK House concept,” Logli said. Rockford Police Chief Dan O’Shea proposed a program that would offer homes to Rockford officers free of charge willing to move into Rockford.

“The concept is similar. You want to increase the interaction between police and citizens. We want to do more. We think this works.”

20 | february 2018

theVoicE • rockfordchamber.com

Conducting the daily work of economic development nationally and globally As part of the daily work of economic development, the RAEDC attends and exhibits at trade shows and conferences throughout the year to promote our region to decision makers as an ideal place for relocation or expansion.

Through these events, the RAEDC cultivates business attraction opportunities that lead to primary job growth, which in turn increases the economic well-being of our region.

RAEDC participation also increases the awareness of the Rockford Region amongst potential businesses and promotes some of the region’s strengths. These include our ideal location for logistics and the creation of customized education to workforce pipelines relevant to the needs of regional employers. Our region has a skilled workforce with a 20 percent higher concentration in manufacturing capabilities than the national average. It leads the nation in workforce concentration in cold forming, and is sixth in the

nation for aerospace employment concentration. In addition to those strengths, the region has strong supply chains for the aerospace, automotive and advanced manufacturing industries.

Those qualities, in addition to a lower cost of doing business, a lower cost of living and a high quality of life truly make the Rockford Region: Your Opportunity Region.

The 2018 schedule includes: Advanced Design and Manufacturing Conference Cleveland, Ohio March 7 to 8 http://admcleveland.com/ Select USA Investment Summit Washington, D.C. June 20 to 22 www.selectusa.gov IMTS Chicago September 10 to 15 https://www.imts.com

Kaney says he remembers starting with an empty building, hiring some fantastic engineers, and then making calls on potential customers; “a lot of knocking on doors,” to take his business where it is today.

Kaney Aerospace growth is underway

By JAC, RAEDC correspondent It started as a glimmer in the eyes of Jeff Kaney. Or, maybe it was a glowing ember from the recent melt down of major Rockford manufacturing companies in the early 2000s. Whatever the source, the spark caught fire 12 years ago when Kaney started his own company in 2006, Kaney Aerospace.

The Rockford area has a long history of manufacturing prowess. Most of those companies were started by inventors or entrepreneurs and some developed into major employers for our region and critical industries for the nation. In the late 1900s, our community saw companies being sold, manufacturing being moved, and production and services being outsourced.

The questions asked during that period of change were about what would take the place of those jobs and expertise that had been strong but was now being moved away.

Perhaps a part of the answer is starting to materialize as the community sees a big part of its growth occurring now in the aerospace industry. Smaller companies are now forming and providing products and services to the aerospace sector.

Supporting Aerospace Kaney grew up on a farm in northern Illinois, served as an air force pilot, and then worked as a commercial airline pilot.

He remembers starting with an empty building, hiring some fantastic engineers, and then making calls on potential customers, “a lot of knocking on doors.

There is nothing like the next payroll to motivate a person to find business. Kaney fortunately had a plan for his business, and as he says, he has hired some very smart people. He sees other companies like his that are finding business and work in supporting the aerospace industry. He referenced a nucleus of similarly focused business in the Rockford area.

Kaney Aerospace has now grown from the initial small group of employees to more than 120 employees. In early 2017, Kaney acquired BVR Technologies. It too was a Rockford company, founded in 1945, and even bigger than Kaney. BVR was made a part of Kaney Aerospace which now has more than $20 million in annual revenue.

Read the full article at RockfordIL.com/ kaneyaerospace and sign-up to receive our monthly newsletter featuring a different regional company.

Rockford airport implements paid parking The Greater Rockford Airport Authority voted last July to implement paid parking to support improvements, including ongoing maintenance of parking facilities and increased security at Chicago Rockford International Airport. RFD implemented paid parking on Jan. 24. Rates are first two hours: free; each additional hour: $1; daily maximum: $7; weekly rate maximum: $35.

Guests who parked in the airport lots prior to Jan. 24 and exiting after that time are “grandfathered in” and when exiting should see the cashier (left lane at the exit) for their free parking.

New vehicle entry and exit routes have been constructed, and parking staff will be on-site 24 hours a day. Customer assistance services such as jump starts and tire inflation will be provided at no cost to travelers. For more information, email flyrfd@flyrfd.com.

theVoice

february 2018 | 21

National Indicators theRegional, economy U.S. Indicators December 2017



Consumer Price Index Unemployment Rate

0.1 percent 4.1 percent

      

Payroll Employment Average Hourly Earnings Producer Price Index Employment Cost Index Productivity U.S. Import Price Index U.S. Export Price Index

148,000 $0.09 0.1 percent 0.7 percent (third quarter, 2017) 3.0 percent (third quarter, 2017) 0.1 percent 0.1 percent

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Unemployment Rates Region / State / Nation Sept. 2017

Oct. 2017

Nov. 2017

Dec. 2017

Rockford

5.0

5.0

5.1

---

Chicago

4.8

4.9

4.8

4.8

Illinois

5.0

4.9

4.9

4.8

United States

4.2

4.1

4.1

4.1

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Chicago Named ‘Best City for an Active Lifestyle’ WalletHub.com compared the 100 biggest U.S. cities based on 34 key indicators of an active lifestyle: from average monthly fitness-club fee to bike score to share of physically inactive adults.

Chicago tied #1 with New York City for “most basketball hoops per capita” and “most playgrounds per capita” and #1 for “most tennis courts per capita.”

1. Chicago, Ill. 2. Portland, Ore. 3. San Francisco, Calif.

4. San Diego, Calif.

5. Seattle, Wash.

6. Madison, Wis. 7. New York, N.Y. 8. Denver, Colo.

9. Boise, Idaho 10. Minneapolis, Minn.

New Year’s Day U.S. Population U.S. Population

326,971,407 (Jan. 1, 2018)

Most Populous States California Texas Florida New York Pennsylvania Illinois Ohio Georgia North Carolina Michigan

Population per sq. mile 253.8 108.3 391.3 421.2 286.2 230.6 285.3 181.1 211.3 176.1

22 | february 2018

theVoice • rockfordchamber.com

business

Business Briefs

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

dog-themed bars in New York City, for marketing consulting and social media management. Workforce Connection’s hiring event on Jan. 9 at 303 N. Main St., Rockford, drew 115 people. It was geared towards entry-level professional positions, particularly jobs with state and local government agencies, including public safety.

Rock Valley College received a $5,000 Community Investment Grant from local energy transportation company, Enbridge, in December for five $1,000 scholarships for students from Boone County in welding or engineering.

RAMP’s office in Stephenson County celebrated its 20th anniversary. It opened its doors in Freeport on Dec. 8, 1997 with only one employee, Jackie Nieman (Sundquist), who still is with RAMP as the services director.

Chicago Rockford International Airport and Apple Vacations announced its 13th season of non-stop flights to tropical vacation destinations in Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica.

This season’s charter flights are operated by Swift Air. Chicago Rockford International Airport announced in November it had seen more than one billion pounds of landed cargo weight in 2017; a 48 percent increase over 2016. It also saw a 51.4 percent increase from October to November 2017; a result of ABX and UPS increasing their day-to-day and seasonal operations out of RFD in 2017. Nearly 2,300 jobs became available due to the increase in cargo activity. UPS hired 2,000 positions to support the holiday volume. Pinnacle Logistics, an aviation cargo warehousing operation, added five additional daily flights in November for 300 additional jobs.

Chartwell Agency was hired by Rockford Board of Elections to oversee communications support including social media management, messaging and public relations.

Entré Computer Solutions announced the new location of its Beloit office at 645 3rd St., Ste. #130, in the IronTek building. Entré and Phase 2 IT have entered into an arrangement where Entré will absorb the client base of Phase 2. Entré is a Value Added Reseller specializing in Hewlett Packard, Microsoft, Barracuda and Avaya products.

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau announced that the Rockford region was chosen for the first time to host the 2018 Sports Illinois Huddle. The educational conference/tradeshow produced by the Illinois Council of Convention & Visitor Bureau’s Sports Illinois, May 20 to 22, will draw attendees nationwide.

V2 Marketing Communications will oversee website and digital marketing campaigns for Wiser Now, a publishing and training development company focused on

Rosecrance Inc., executed a merger agreement with Prairie Center, effective Jan. 1, 2018.

Lauren smiles for the camera with Santa and her newborn baby boy Benjamin during the annual Holiday Toy Drive on Dec. 14 in the neonatal intensive care unit at Mercyhealth Hospital-Rockton Avenue. promoting healthy aging by connecting gratitude, humor and play.

Midway Village Museum presents a limited engagement exhibit through Feb. 28, “1960s: The Generation of Love and War,” which give visitors the opportunity to learn more about some of the influential events of the decade. Artifacts include fashion trends, popular childhood games and old music favorites.

The Thayer Lighting team attended the 2017 LED Specifier Summit at Navy Pier in Chicago for continuing education classes, seminars and product reviews from more than 200 manufacturers in the LED industry. A highlight, “The Truth About Circadian Lighting,” discussed industry trends toward color tuning for circadian regulation.

Rockford Art Museum’s steel horse sculpture, donated by Lon and Richard Behr, and created by nationally acclaimed, Montana-based artist Deborah Butterfield, has a new name. Out of more than 350 entries, Butterfield chose to rename the Yellow horse sculpture made with scrap material from Joseph Behr and Sons in Rockford, Yellow Behr. Jerry Franklin won RAM’s Name the Horse Contest and received a free one-year membership.

Chartwell Agency partnered with Ignition Studio, Inc., to complete a new website for the Center for Sight & Hearing at www.cshni.org – the final step in its year-long rebranding initiative.

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau released its new Go Guide for the Rockford region, which showcases the community as a destination filled with great people and fun things to do.

Due to its popularity, the new Sinnissippi Station Model Garden Railroad Exhibit at Rockford Park District’s Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens will be on display through Feb. 18.

The Mercyhealth Development

Rockford Art Museum’s steel horse sculpture made with scrap material from Joseph Behr and Sons in Rockford has a new name, Yellow Behr.

Foundation held its annual Holiday Toy Drive on Dec. 14, raising nearly $18,000 and collecting hundreds of toys for pediatric patients receiving care at Mercyhealth.

Heartland Hospice is offering several bereavement support groups include a Journaling Bereavement Workshop every other Tuesday, a Care & Share informal discussion group on the first and third Tuesdays, and a Journey of Hope & Healing informal discussion group on Fridays.

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden received a $6,500 grant to provide an interpretive sign for the new Oak Grove Restoration from the Community Grants Program of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois with support from the Dr. Courtney J. & Margaret Hutchins Hamlin Family Fund.

Colorwave Graphics, LLC, wrapped a 53-foot semi-trailer for Pepper Construction in Chicago using premium 3M materials and fade resistant inks; produced 500 table displays for Shimano, Inc., to introduce its new Curado fishing reel; 200 counter cards for Culligan International, and several enlarged photographs mounted onto black substrate for Spirit Aerosystems, Inc., campus located in Wichita, Kan. KMK Media Group was hired by Barkley’s Burgers, Brews & Dawgs, a bar/restaurant on the west side of Janesville that’s modeled after

Community Foundation of Northern Illinois announced the recipients of community grants for the fall 2017 cycle, with up to $1.9 million committed over the next three years to 79 projects, programs and events operated by nonprofit organizations in Boone, Ogle, Stephenson and Winnebago counties. Six focus areas: arts & humanities, education, health, human services, sustainable communities and youth & families.

A diet plan available in northern Illinois through OSF HealthCare is making national headlines for its proven results. The Health Management Resources program ranked #1 for fastest weight loss in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Diets of 2018 Rankings. It’s offered at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, Rockford.

Mercyhealth Hospital-Rockton Avenue now is designated as a pediatric trauma center, making it one of only five in Illinois and the only hospital in the Rockford region equipped and staffed to provide comprehensive trauma care to children who have suffered blunt trauma, penetrating wounds and head injuries in incidents such as crashes, falls or violent acts.

Mercyhealth has seen a 36 percent increase in pediatric patient transfers since the beginning of 2017.

Stepping Stones of Rockford, Inc., received a $6,600 grant from the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois for its Stars of Light program to host a series of Visiting Artist Workshops in preparation for its Art of Recovery gallery and 2018 Fall Art Scene.

UIC College of Pharmacy at Rockford received a $38,870 grant for its project, “Investing in the Recruitment and Retention of Top Talent to the Profession of Pharmacy,” from the Community Grants Program of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois to support and grow the High School Pharmacy Camp and Summer Pharmacy Institute programs for high school and college students.

(continued on page 23)

theVoice

february 2018 | 23

business

Business Briefs

Continued from page 22 Rock River Valley Blood Center reported that donor traffic is down approximately 13 percent over the last four weeks, resulting in about 350 fewer donations than expected.

Cold and flu season has hit the area hard and all eligible donors are encouraged to make and keep donation appointments. Call 815-965-8751 or visit rrvbc.org.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.’s AJG Rockford and AJG Williams Manny offices joined forces to sponsor a winter clothing drive. Between employee and client donations, they netted more than 150 new

hats, gloves, mittens, scarves and ear muffs, and a number of winter coats; all donated to the Rockford Rescue Mission just prior to Christmas.

University of Illinois Extension hosts its Small Farms Winter webinar series, featuring practical lunch-hour presentations on small farm enterprises and strategies.

Tune in from your desk or laptop every Thursday at noon through March 29. A complete list of topics and free registration is available at go.aces.illinois.edu/ WinterWebinars.

The Rockford Chamber’s Ambassadors Club met for its monthly luncheon at RAMP in January, listened to speakers Tammy English and Eric Brown and enjoyed lunch catered by ABC Catering Ltd., A Better Choice Catering.

Home Rule Vote (continued from front page)

local leaders to make local decisions to develop local solutions to local problems. Our elected officials remain ultimately accountable to the voters.

The conditions in the Chamber resolution include the following:

■ Continue to maintain a debt to assessed value ration that is 20% more stringent than the State debt limit.

Partisan gridlock in Springfield has brought our great state nearly to its knees and had a negative impact on Rockford as well. Without home rule, Rockford only has the power to move

■ Extensive notices of public hearings and timelines prior to any ordinance that will establish a new tax or increase and existing tax, giving the public ample time to react and respond.

forward using tools that the General

■ Keep non-home rule property tax caps in place.

voters to vote YES on March 20th! theVoice

Assembly gives us. With home rule, we hold the control of our future in our own hands.

The Chamber encourages Rockford

Home Rule Committee hosts informational forums Mayor Tom McNamara, along with former SwedishAmerican CEO Dr. Bill Gorski, announced that a home rule vote will officially be placed on the General Primary ballot on March 20. The home rule committee invites Rockford residents to informational forums to talk to city leaders about home rule and how it will impact the city. The League of Women Voters will moderate the presentation and questions. Each forum will last approximately two hours.

■ Feb. 6, 5 p.m., Lutheran Church of the Good Shepard, 1829 N. Rockton Ave. ■ Feb. 13, 5 p.m., Rockford Public Library, Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St. ■ March 7, 5 p.m., Rockford University, Regents Hall, 5050 E. State St. For more information, visit 127 N. Wyman St., or rockfordhomerule.com.

24 | february 2018

theVoice • rockfordchamber.com

in the news Members in the News

1. Dr. Funminiyi Taylor

2. Dr. Stephen Kozlowski

9. Paul Carynski

3. Lisa M. Bly

10. Ben Gifford

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

BOARD APPOINTMENTS The YMCA of Rock River Valley Retired Men’s Club elected new board members: Fred Pelley, president; Ted Plum, 1st vice president; Marlow Anderson, 2nd vice president; Barnie Spencer, secretary; Jerry Fry, treasurer; Frank Rogers, membership chair; Brad King, membership co-chair; Jim Jones, David Palmer and Randall Locke.

Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois named its new board members: Martesha Brown, Jonathan Gates, Kerry Hill, Tiana McCall, Rep. Cheri Bustos and Erik Stephens.

John Wolf was elected to serve as president of the Growth Dimensions board. Joining him is Diana Dykstra and Kent Kniep, vice presidents; Michael St. John, treasurer, and Matt Branom, secretary.

Karl Franzen, economic development coordinator for the City of Rockford, was appointed to the Illinois Trade Policy Task Force within the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity – Office of Trade and Investment.

4. Catherine Povalitis

11. John O’Connor

5. Laura Snyder

12. David Cyrs

6. Keith Wilson

13. Dr. Mike Werckle

14. C. Ander Smith

Former CTA safety VP is new RMTD director Rockford Mass Transit District named Michael Stubbe as its new executive director. He replaces Rick McVinnie who served as executive director for 25 years. McVinnie will work as an advisor to Stubbe and the board during the transition. Stubbe has more than 22 years working in transit operations management, safety and transit planning, including the last 11 at the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), the nation’s second largest public transportation system. His most recent jobs were as interim vice president of safety, compliance and risk management and overall manager of the CTA’s safety program. maternal-fetal medicine, and Stephen Kozlowski, M.D. (2), FACR, rheumatology, to its hospital at Rockton Avenue.

The Workforce Connection hired Lisa M. Bly (3) as executive director.

Chartwell Agency promoted Catherine Povalitis (4) to director.

Rockford Housing Authority CEO Larry Williams left the organization on Dec. 29, 2017. Laura Snyder (5) was named interim chief executive officer.

Keith Wilson (6), land surveyor, Fehr Graham, retired after 35 years with the firm.

NEW HIRES, PROMOTIONS, RETIREMENTS

Crusader Community Health welcomed Sravantika Koneru, M.D., family medicine, to its Loves Park medical team.

Mercyhealth welcomed Funminiyi Taylor, M.D. (1), MEd, FACOG,

Rockford Systems, LLC, hired Bill Holliday as vice president of finance;

7. John Sentovich

replacing Ken Krantz, who will retire in March 2018.

Savant Capital Management hired John Sentovich (7) as business development financial advisor in its Rockford office.

Rock House Kids promoted Deanna “Dee” Lacny (8) to executive director.

EMPLOYEE/COMMUNITY RECOGNITIONS, AWARDS Becker’s Hospital Review named Paula Carynski (9), president, OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center, to its annual list of 130 women hospital and health system leaders to know.

OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center gave its quarterly DAISY Award to Christy RussellBirkett, telemetry.

Richard Van Evera and Greg Brown

8. Deanna “Dee” Lacny

15. Mike Mastroianni

were recognized last month for years of leadership and service with Growth Dimensions. Brown will remain on the board as the treasurer.

Meridian named Ben Gifford (10) its December employee of the month.

Four members of the business service team at The Workforce Connection: Robert Jones, Cira Bennett, Kim Haley and Deb Alfredson, completed the Business Engagement Certification course offered by Business U. John O’Connor (11), CYRS Wealth Advisors, Rockford, was certified to use the Certified Financial Planner and CFP certification marks in accordance with CFO Board certification and renewal requirements.

David Cyrs (12), CYRS Wealth Advisors, LLC, was named a 2017 Five Star wealth manager and appeared in the Dec. 26, 2017 issue of Forbes.

OF GENERAL INTEREST Dr. Mike Werckle became majority owner and CEO of Hospice Care of America, based in Rockford.

Attorney C. Ander Smith (14) served as lead U.S. counsel for Swedenbased Mentice AB in its acquisition of the medical products division of Medical Simulation Corporation.

Mike Mastroianni (15), president, MDM Consulting, visited several local businesses to conduct a new workshop on sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace.

25 worst passwords of 2017 One of those times when

being trendy is not a good thing; Splashdata.com, a password manager company, unveiled

in January the most common

passwords used — the ones to

avoid in keeping your information secure.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

123456 Password 12345678 qwerty 12345 123456789 letmein 1234567 football

10. iloveyou 11. admin 12. welcome 13. monkey 14. login 15. abc123 16. starwars 17. 123123 18. dragon

19. passw0rd 20. maste 21. hello 22. freedom 23. whatever 24. qazwsx 25. trustno1 Source: SplashData, Inc.

theVoice • rockfordchamber.com

february 2018 | 25

community Community Events

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

Rockford. Register at go.illinois.edu/ StatelineGrowers2018 or 815-9864357.

FEBRUARY, 2018

Rockford Park District hosts its Junior Winter Golf Academy sessions beginning Feb. 5 and Feb. 7. Visit golfrockford.org.

Thursday, February 1

Rockford Art Museum presents Danny Lyon: Conversations with the Dead (through Feb. 18) and Charles Beffa Photography Collection and Susan + Stephen Pitkin Collection (through Feb. 25) at 11 N. Main St. Visit rockfordartmuseum.org or 815-968-2787.

The Workforce Connection and Rasmussen College host a free Hiring Event & Career Expo, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Community Building Complex of Boone County, 111 W. 1st St., Belvidere. Employers hiring in a range of industries. Learn how to navigate your job search, expand your professional network and finesse your elevator speech. Includes resume reviews/mock interviews.

Friday, February 2

First Northern Credit Union hosts a Tax Prep Event, Feb. 2, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Feb. 3, 9 to 11:30 a.m., at 104 N. Showplace Dr., Rockford.

Bring last year’s tax returns and supporting documents. Celebrate the big game with food, special offers and drinks. Register at 815-332-9898, ext. 531, fncu.org/events or facebook. com/firstnortherncu.

Saturday, February 3

University of Illinois Extension’s Winter Trails & Naturalist Tales, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at Atwood Environmental Center, 2685 New Milford School Road, Rockford.

Register at web.extension.illinois.edu/ jsw or 815-986-4357.

Monday, February 5

University of Illinois Extension Winnebago County hosts the 22nd annual Stateline Fruit and Vegetable Growers Conference, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road,

SwedishAmerican, A Division of UW Health hosts the free event, Heart Care Ask the Experts, 5 p.m., at Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford. Dr. Michael Born will give an update on SwedishAmerican at 6 p.m., followed by keynote speaker Lisa McDowell, M.S., RD, CSSD, on “Code Blueberry:” Let Food Be Your Medicine,” and a panel discussion. Register at https://tinyurl. com/HeartCare18 or 779-696-7081.

Thursday, February 8

Rockford Coronado Concert Association presents YAMATO: The Drummers of Japan, 7:30 p.m., at the Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford. For tickets, visit www.RCCAConcerts.org

Saturday, February 10

UIC College of Pharmacy hosts a Pharmacy Information Session, 10 a.m. to noon, at the UIC Health Sciences Campus-Rockford, 1601 Parkview Ave. For more information, contact Rachel Van Den Broek, 815-395-5749 or rachelv@uic.edu.

The Rockford Symphony Orchestra hosts its Classics Concert, “Beethoven’s Symphony No. 8,” at the Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St. Features percussioncentered piece, “Veni, veni, Emanuel,” with RSO principal, Simón Gómez Gallego. Tickets at 815-965-0049 or www.rockfordsymphony.com.

Sunday, February 11

Keith Country Day School hosts an Open House, 1 to 3 p.m., at 1 Jacoby Place, Rockford. To register email admissions@keithschool.net or contact Lindsey Duerr, lindsey. duerr@keithschool.net or 815-3998823. Registration is not required.

Discovery Center Museum, 711 N.

Main St., Rockford, presents Chocolate Sundae Sunday, 2 to 4 p.m. Call 815-963-6769 or visit www.discoverycentermuseum.org.

Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, presents three lectures on Feb 11 and 25 and March 11 as a part of a new, limitedengagement exhibit, 1960s: The Generation of Love and War, through Feb. 28. Visit www. midwayvillage.com or call 815-3979112.

Saturday, February 17

OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center holds an Audition of animals and handlers for its Animal Assisted Therapy Program, 10 a.m., in the Foundation Room at 5510 E. State St., Rockford. Apply no later than Feb. 14. Visit www. osfsaintanthony.org or call 815-3955064.

Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, presents Learn to Draw George and Friends, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit www. discoverycentermuseum.org or call 815-963-6769.

Tuesday, February 20

Northern Illinois University holds an Internship & Job Fair for all majors, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at NIU Convocation Center, 1525 W. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. Visit www. careerfairs.niu.edu.

Wednesday, February 21

Rockford Area Arts Awards, 5 to 7 p.m., at Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main St.

Saturday, February 24

Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, presents Discover Engineering, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit www.discoverycenter museum.org or call 815-963-6769.

Keith Country Day School and Rockford Ball Screw host their first-annual casino night, RockVegas, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m., at CrossFit VisOne, 7326 CherryVale

Mall Dr. Cuisine provided by Toni’s of Winnebago and entertainment by Luxe Productions. Club attire requested. For tickets, contact Chris Dorherty, chris.dorherty@ keithschool.net or 815-399-8823.

Monday, February 26

Northern Illinois University holds an Education & Health Professions Job Fair, 9 a.m. to noon, at NIU Convocation Center, 1525 W. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. Visit www. careerfairs.niu.edu.

Tuesday, February 27

Upper Cervical Care Center – Rockford hosts a free Ladies Health Workshop, 6:30 p.m., at Rockford Christian High School, 1401 N. Bell School Road. Learn about proper hormone, adrenal and nerve function and discuss lack of energy/fatigue, aches and pains, frequent illness, stress and unpredictable moods. RSVP required at 815-398-4500.

MARCH, 2018

Wednesday, March 7

2HB Human Resources & Benefits Solutions presents a Spring Benefits Update Seminar, 8 a.m. to noon. Chris DeVlieger, The Suter Company, will share how she is engaging employees with the Dream Manager program. Forensic electronics expert Andrew Garrett will talk about how to protect your organization from electronic fraud and intellectual property theft.

Credentialed HR managers can earn up to three CEUs. RSVP by March 2 to Tracy Luethje, Tluethje@2HBSolutions.com or 815-977-3496, ext. 210.

Thursday, March 8

UIC College of Pharmacy hosts a Pharmacy Information Session, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the UIC Health Sciences Campus-Rockford, 1601 Parkview Ave. For more information, contact Rachel Van Den Broek, 815-395-5749 or rachelv@uic.edu.

26 | february 2018

theVoice

New Chamber Members ADVANCED MACHINE & ENGINEERING CO. (AME)

TASTY TIDBITS CULINARY SERVICES, LLC

A global manufacturer and distributor of precision machine tool components and metal cutting solutions.

2500 Latham St., 61103 Meaghan Ziemba 815-962-6076 www.ame.com

Personal chef services; meal services; cooking classes; boutique catering 1222 S. Alpine Road, 61108 Diana Kramer 815-708-7199 www.tastytidbitspcs.com

HENNIG, INC.

Providing support for pre-boarding, ON boarding, sales coaching, sales management, account planning and reducing time to ramp.

4404 Northgate Court Carpentersville, IL 60110 Steve Buergey 224-210-9191 www.seamstrategies.com

Hennig is a leader in producing quality machine protection & chip/ coolant management systems globally.

9900 N. Alpine Road Machesney Park, IL 61115 Natasha Hardin 815-636-9900 www.hennig-inc.com

SEAM STRATEGIES

AERO ALE HOUSE Aero Ale House is on a mission to serve great food, cold beer and classic craft cocktails 6164 E. Riverside Blvd.

Loves Park, IL 61111 Matt Pendergrass 815-977-5602 www.aerolovespark.com

Membership Renewals Thank you to members who renewed with the Rockford Chamber of Commerce in December, 2017.

A-1 Lapping & Machine Co. Inc. Abbott Plastics and Supply Co. Accu-Cut Inc Advanced Disposal Solid Waste Services Alignment Rockford Arc Design Resources, Inc. Artale Wine Co. A-Sign Designs Boylan Catholic High School Brian F. Soltys, D.D.S. Briargate Management, LLC Bridge Ministries C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc. Campos Construction, Inc. Catholic Diocese of Rockford Christofferson Moving & Storage Classic Limousine of Rockford, Inc. Cloisters of Forest Hills Concrete Systems Inc Crescent Electric Supply Company Delta Dental of Illinois Envoy Mortgage Exclusive Condominium Management Family Counseling Services of Northern Illinois Fantasy Glassworks Farm & Fleet of Rockford First Benefits Group Flood Pros Galapagos Rockford Charter School Gift of Hope Organ & Tissue Donor Network GKN Rockford Golden Apple Foundation Grandview Condominium Association Hicksgas Belvidere Holmertz-Parsons, CPA’s HR Capital Management Consultants Hughes Media Corp.

JC Milling Co., Inc. Jimmy John’s Kelley Williamson Company

Key Realty, Commercial & Industrial - Teri Watts, Broker LaQuinta Inn & Suites Rockford Lee ’n Sons Plumbing, Inc. Leland L. Freberg, CPA, LLC Lindstrom, Sorenson & Associates, LLP Market Dimensions, Inc. MembersAlliance Credit Union Metropolitan Title Agency Morgan Stanley - The Custer/ Meisch Group Morning Star Village Northern Illinois Health Plan Northing Bundt Cake Pearson Plumbing & Heating Co. Pierce Distribution Services Company R.R. Floody Company, Inc. RAC Adjustment Company Rally Appraisal, LLC Richard L. Johnson Associates, Inc. Rock River Energy Services, Inc. Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity Inc. Rockford Christian Schools Rockford Education Association Rockford Specialties Rockford Woman’s Club/ Rockford Theatre Saco USA (Illinois) Inc. Savant Capital Management SVL Productions Swedberg & Associates, Inc. The Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Club The Observer TLC...the Learning Center, Inc. Windmill Hill LC Winnebago County Clerk of the Circuit Court, 17th Judicial Circuit Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office Wired Cafe’ YWCA Northwestern Illinois Zimmerman & Walsh, LLP

theVoice • rockfordchamber.com

february 2018 | 27

chamber

Upcoming Chamber Events

FEBRUARY, 2018 Thursday, February 1

IGNITE Lunch with a Leader, noon to 1 p.m., at the Region 1 Planning Council - Design Center, 313 N. Main St., Rockford. Presenter is Dale Gustafson, Gustafson’s Furniture.

Tuesday, February 6

Business Women’s Council, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Mary’s Market Banquet Facility, 4431 E. State St., Rockford. Brian Oster, creative director and president of OC Creative, will talk about the challenges he sets for his team as leaders in development. Sponsored

by Associated Bank.

Friday, February 9

Government Affairs Council, 7:30 to 8:45 a.m., at Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St., Rockford. Winnebago County Chairman Frank Haney will be speaking on the proposed merger between the County Clerk’s office and the Recorder of Deeds. He will also discuss other opportunities for consolidation and efficiencies within the County.

Wednesday, February 14 7:30 - 9 am Rockford University PURI Business School Bldg., Rm. 124 5050 E. State St. , Rockford

Breakfast BUZZ Steve Bois, CEO, and Conor Brown, government affairs director, Rockford Area Realtors, present State of the Regions’ Real Estate Market.

Sponsored by RSM US LLP.

Wednesday, February 14

Rockford Public Library Ribbon Cutting, 2 to 3 p.m., at 214 N Church St., Rockford.

Thursday, February 15

SwedishAmerican Heart Institute Open House/Ribbon Cutting, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., at 1340 Charles St., #300, Rockford.

Friday, February 16

Tasty Tidbits Culinary Services, LLC, 1 to 3 p.m., at 1222 S. Alpine Road, Rockford.

MARCH, 2018 Friday, March 9

Government Affairs Council, 7:30 to 8:45 a.m., at Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St., Rockford.

Wednesday, March 14 7:30 - 9 am Rockford University PURI Business School Bldg., Rm. 124 5050 E. State St. , Rockford

Breakfast BUZZ

Sponsored by RSM US LLP.

The Alliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 ATHENA PowerLink . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Blackhawk Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 BMO Harris Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

OSF HealthCare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Quartz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Rockford Bank & Trust Co. . . . . . . . 6 Rockford Chamber of

Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . 6, 23, 26, 28

Boylan Catholic High School. . . . . 17

Rockford University . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Broadmoor Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Rock Valley College Techworks. . . 11

Brian Thomas Photography . . . . . 21

Saint Anthony College of Nursing . 16

Center for Sight & Hearing . . . . . . 14 CoyleKiley Insurance Agency Inc. . 14 Gallagher Williams-Manny. . . . . . . . 3 Illinois Bank & Trust . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Illinois Small Business Development Center . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Mercyhealth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Northern Public Radio . . . . . . . . . . 19

Stillman Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Thayer Lighting, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 SwedishAmericna,

A Division of UW Health . . . . . . . . 13 Upper Iowa University . . . . . . . . . . 16 Van Matre HealthSouth

Rehabilitation Hospital . . . . . . . . . 14

of the Rockford Business Community

Chamber Staff / Call 815-987-8100 ............................................. Direct Line Harold “Bo” Boger, IL Small Business

Development Center Director ............................................................. 815-316-4301

Sue Boyer, Member Relations ................................................ 815-316-4315

Let your Voice be heard

Einar K. Forsman, President & CEO ......................................... 815-316-4304 Heidi M. Garner, Chief Operating Officer ................................... 815-316-4312 Doug Hessong, Director of Publications & Technology .................. 815-316-4338 Lynette Jacques, Vice President, Member Investment ................... 815-316-4317 Caitlin Pusateri, Vice President, Leadership Development .................. 815-316-4337 Doug Rand, Accounting Manager/Controller .............................. 815-316-4316

DO YOU HAVE NEWS TO SHARE? Send news releases and other items of interest to the business community to: The VOICE, Rockford Chamber of Commerce 308 W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, IL 61101

DEADLINE IS THE 15TH OF THE MONTH PRECEDING PUBLICATION

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

20-YEAR MEMBERS

5-YEAR MEMBERS

Maney’s Lawnscape Inc. Meridian Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Wilson Electric Co

Advantage Funeral Home & Cremation Services at Willwood Burial Park Allen Heating & Cooling Inc. CIT Trucks Custom Concrete Ltd. Kilbuck Creek R.R. Floody Company, Inc. Sandvik Coromat Co.

Rock River Energy Services, Inc. Rock Town Consulting

Alden Debes & Park Strathmoor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Rita Elliott and Nellie Miller, Rockford University, present “From Janewashing to Changing Your World: Solid Lessons in a Brand Evolution.”

February 2018 Member Anniversaries

10-YEAR MEMBERS

Advertisers Index advertisers

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

Chamber Board of Directors & Officers EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Chairman of the Board Richard Zumwalt Z Resource Chair-Elect Michele Petrie Wintrust Commercial Banking & Mortgage Vice Chair Dan Ross Gallagher Williams-Manny Treasurer Amy Ott Boylan Catholic High School Immediate Past Chair Patti Thayer Thayer Lighting, Inc.

DIRECTORS Andrew Benson Benson Stone Company, Inc. Kimberly Blascoe Wipfli LLP Jan Bowman TLC Construction LaVonne Brown Savant Capital Management Paula Carynski OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center Samuel J. Castree Staff Management, Inc. Joe Castrogiovanni Giovanni’s, Inc.

Sue Schrieber Don Daniels SwedishAmerican, A Mercyhealth Division of UW Health John Schuster Rebecca Epperson Rosecrance Health Chartwell Agency Network Ira Grimmett UTC Aerospace Systems

Karl Swanson Rockford Bank & Trust Co

Tim Honquest Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory

Udaya Talwar Woodward

Jeff Hultman Illinois Bank & Trust Michael F. Iasparro Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP Elizabeth Lee Greenlee Textron

Kris L. Kieper Jean Crosby Machajewski Berkshire Hathaway YWCA Northwestern HomeServices Crosby Illinois Starck Real Estate Mike Paterson Doug Curry Mid-West Family Stenstrom Excavation Broadcasting and Blacktop Group Mark Peterson CBL Associates Cherry Vale

Jon Thompson Butitta Brothers Automotive

EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS Einar K. Forsman President & CEO, Rockford Chamber of Commerce John Groh Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Nathan Bryant Rockford Area Economic Development

MARCH VOICE SPECIAL SECTIONS Raising the Bar – Legal Considerations Employers You Want to Work for For information on advertising, call 815

987-8100