May Voice 2017

GOODWILL MAKING GOOD THINGS HAPPEN PAGE 4

SWEDES INVESTS IN ROCKFORD PAGE 7

The Voice is online at rockfordchamber.com

VINTAGE VENDORS SOUGHT

May 2017 | Volume 30 | No. 5

A good night for manufacturing Many businesses seeing increased sales The manufacturing industry is looking up. That was the consensus at the Rockford Chamber of Commerce’s Manufacturing Expo and Dinner.

A crowd of 400 manufacturing industry and community leaders turned out for the April 6 event, which was held at Giovanni’s Restaurant and Convention Center. Before the dinner, attendees visited 50 booths from area manufacturing and related services.

The Manufacturers Council also hosted high schools to promote manufacturing careers to area students.

“This event highlights one of the strengths of our community,” said Rick Zumwalt, chamber board chair. “The

infrastructure of manufacturing has supported this community for years and years and will well into the future.”

It was a good night for Rockford Process Control, which was named Manufacturer of the Year. RPC, headquartered in the former National Lock complex on the city’s southeast side, was founded in 1983. RPC manufactures parts for ATVs, motorcycles and other power sports equipment. It also makes heavy-duty hinges used mostly in prison, school, hospital and other institutional cabinets. Their in-house capabilities include tube forming and fabrication, laser cut tubing, CNC machining, robotic welding, metal stamping and powder paint.

Recently, RPC went through some major technological upgrades in machinery and equipment. In the last five years, sales have increased more than 50 percent, generating 50 new jobs for the region.

“For a company like ours, this is a big deal. It’s nice to get the recognition,” said CEO and President Pat Derry. “We have an extremely hard working group of

Pat Derry of Rockford Process Control accepted the 2017 Manufacturer of the Year award.

Photos by Brian Thomas Photography people. Anyone who comes to work for us and lasts six to 12 months, seems to stay forever. We have a family atmosphere. As a management team, we try to give them good equipment and good wages, and it seems to work well.”

The Business Catalyst of the Year Award went to Mike Cobert from the NIU EIGERlab. He’s often been referred to as an “unsung hero.” Cobert has been with EIGERlab from the beginning after spending two decades with Ingersoll Milling Machines. “Wow,” he said. “I had no idea this award was coming. I’ve been in manufacturing my entire life, but I never imagined this would happen. I’m truly blessed to have the job I have. I work every day of the week because it’s fun.”

Continued on page 3

Plans to build new downtown library will proceed

By Barbara Connors

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

Questions? 815-987-8100

Join the Chamber’s LinkedIn Group

The Rockford Public Library announced plans in mid-April to go forward with the demolition of the main library building at 215 N. Wyman St., in downtown Rockford, to allow for construction of a new one in its place.

The partnership between the library and ComEd, An Exelon Company ultimately will result in the renovation of two buildings in the downtown area.

The library has purchased the former Hart building at 214 N. Church St., and renovations will begin May 1. They are projected to take about six months. Once completed, the building will serve as the interim location for the main library, while the demolition and remediation of the site at 215 N. Wyman St., is under way.

The library will begin a community engagement process on the design for the replacement main library building and fundraise for new furniture and special services and equipment. The whole process from now to the new library

opening is expected to take three to five years. The Hart Building will be sold.

“Building a new library now allows us the opportunity to design a space that meets 21st century needs for both children and adults – which vary greatly from the needs in 1960, when the current library was built,” said Rockford Alderman and Mayor-Elect Tom McNamara. “I believe this new state-of-the-art library will be a highlight of the downtown area and draw people from throughout the community.”

ComEd will remediate the site of the current library using a plan approved by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. Soil was found contaminated from when the site was the location for manufactured gas plant Rockford Gas, Light and Coke. ComEd acquired Rockford Gas, Light and Coke in 1966.

The IEPA states the contamination was not airborne and has not posed a risk to employees or patrons. ComEd is committing millions for the new library and to renovate the temporary site on Church Street.

The Rockford Vintage Market, managed by the Rock River Development Partnership, is accepting applications for its summer market on July 15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Rockford City Market, 100 N. Water St. Vendors sell quality vintage, antique and repurposed items including home and garden goods, furniture, clothing, jewelry, art and children’s items. Some “new,” vintage-looking items are acceptable, but vintage items must make up 50 percent of the vendor’s merchandise at the market.

To apply, visit rockfordcitymarket. com/rockford-vintage-market or email rockfordvintagemarket@ rrdp.org. Also visit facebook.com/ rockfordvintagemarket.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

Rockford Chamber

GOLF CLASSIC May 22 Rockford Country Club For more info, see page 26 SPONSORED BY

SHELTERING ABANDONED ANIMALS Starting in late March, “Hoo” Haven Wildlife Rehabilitation Center has received hundreds of injured or abandoned baby birds, fawns, squirrels and bunnies.

The organization wants to advise residents that animal mothers leave their babies alone for extended periods, but are watching from a short distance.

Many concerned citizens find a young one and falsely believe that they are orphaned and remove them from their mother’s care. In most cases, they should be left alone and simply watched to see if mother comes back to feed.

Visit www.hoohaven.org for information on what to do if you find a baby bird or mammal.

KEEPING IT GROOMED The City of Rockford reminds citizens that all premises and exterior property areas should be maintained and free from weeds and grasses in excess of 10 inches in height.

This does not include cultivated flowers and gardens. City ordinances also require that property owners maintain any vegetation growth in abutting right of way areas.

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President’s Message VIEWPOINT

Business Forums highlight Rockford Police strategies, initiatives At a special meeting with the Rockford Chamber of Commerce business community, Rockford Police Chief Dan O’Shea outlined current crime activity, Department priorities, and strategies and initiatives to address the areas of crime that are most concerning to the community.

In front of an audience of more than 100 business leaders, Chief O’Shea’s presentation was fully informative and understandable to the audience, and he made himself accessible to discuss and share perspectives. Based on the audience feedback and in a followup survey, it is clear that those attending came away with a good understanding of current trends and actions by the Police Department and felt comfortable with the strategies being initiated.

Here is some of what we learned: For 2017, the Rockford Police Department has five Key Strategic Initiatives: ■■ Reduce Violent Crime ■■ Improve Community Engagement ■■ Improve Traffic Safety ■■ Improve Employee Development ■■ Enhance Organizational Development Opportunities

When crime data was discussed, it was shared that overall crime rates have been going down. As we begin 2017, in most of the categorized crime, the crime numbers are lower. One notable positive result is that property crimes have gone down 16%. From a crimes-reported standpoint, property crimes comprise a large percentage, so making inroads in this area is laudable. Principal areas of concern for the business community and community at large has been in violent crimes, shotsfired, and auto thefts.

Unfortunately, the violent crime rate remains flat with trends, and shots-fired continue to remain a concern. Chief O’Shea outlined that the Department has taken over 80 guns off the street since January 1, and his Department and other law enforcement agencies work to match/ record shell casings to help identify weapons associated with reported shotsfired. Five weapons have been identified as being responsible for 90 incidents of shots fired. Taking guns off the streets takes crime and opportunity away from certain individuals and also helps paint a picture that much of the crime activity is being done by a very small group of individuals in a large city. The Chief outlined the

Department’s efforts to continue to contain and reduce the opportunities for this small group to commit violent crimes.

When asked about whether the Rockford Police Department had enough manpower, Chief O’Shea offered that technology can sometimes be more important than manpower. Having good technology in place can be a more efficient use of manpower and get to the root of the crime faster. Chief O’Shea outlined the Rockford Region Crime, Information and Analysis Center initiative that fully integrates and embraces technology to address crime. One example of where the Department is headed, is investing in “shot-spotting” systems. These can pinpoint shots fired to a specific location within seconds and does not depend on citizen reporting to track or triangulate shot location. With this, police can respond to the scene quicker and hopefully reduce further incident. And, an investment in automated license plate scanners, which can more readily identify dangerous people sought for incidents/ alleged crimes.

As an example, a person having robbed a bank takes off in a car. That car, if the plate is known, can have its whereabouts tracked in real time, leading to more rapid

apprehension.

When Einar K. Forsman Rockford Chamber asked where of Commerce the business community can assist, O’Shea outlined the use of public video surveillance to track and monitor crime, and that the Department can work with businesses to help in recommendations for camera placement and direction. In addition, businesses can support the Police Department through the sharing of their videos, live or recorded, which can help track crimes being committed or movements of people being sought. Called Physical Security Information Management (PSIM), these solutions allow organizations to reduce costs through improved efficiency and to improve security through increased intelligence.

In the coming months, members of the Rockford Police Department will be rolling out a plan to provide this assistance and engagement with the community.

Note: A wealth of information was provided to the audience in a PowerPoint presentation. If you would like an electronic copy email Einar Forsman at eforsman@rockfordchamber.com.

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May 2017

Manufacturing Expo (continued from front page)

“Mike’s work is an ideal example of the type of engagement we imagined when we took on EIGERlab,” said Dr. Rena Cotsones, associate vice president for outreach, engagement and regional development at Northern Illinois University. “He is fully engaged every day with innovators, entrepreneurs, businesses and many others who he brings together to serve client’s needs and aspirations.”

“These honorees are great examples of all the things happening in our community,” said Zumwalt. “They exemplify the values and the tenacity we all wish we had.”

Comments for the Expo Prior to the dinner, traffic was steady during the expo. Jerry Gunderson, a product sales specialist, was working the booth for FMA, an association that serves the metal forming and manufacturing industry and is based in Elgin. “We’re here to support the industry,” he said. “Our function is to

help manufacturing grow. Optimism is high in the manufacturing arena.”

Ryan Forsell was working the booth for Superior Joining Technologies, a precision lab facility for welding. The company has been on the upswing of late: it recently purchased a second laser to bring in more materials and serve as another profit center. “This expo gives us a chance to see what other opportunities, in addition to aerospace, are out there for

Let your Voice be heard The Rockford Chamber of Commerce ­ elcomes and encourages submissions for The w VOICE of the Rockford Business Community.

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

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

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

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

us,” Forsell said. “Rockford is a hub for manufacturing, and we just celebrated our 25th year in business. Our company is passionate about welding and manufacturing.”

Dr. Doug Jensen, president of Rock Valley College, was the keynote speaker for the evening. Jensen has more than 30 years of community college experience and has seen manufacturing’s impact in other communities. “There’s a rich heritage of manufacturing in this community that allows us to build on a workforce and an economy,” he said. “The challenge we’re facing is developing younger talent. We have to come up with a mechanism to build the talent that the manufacturing sector needs to continue to grow in Rockford. I want these manufacturers to know they have a partner in Rock Valley College.”

Adds Pat Derry: “No question, things

are looking up for manufacturing. Our growth is due primarily to specific customers adding new products. For example, when a company as small as ours gets a big order from Harley Davidson, that’s a big deal.”

The presenting sponsor was QPS Employment Group. Gold sponsors were Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs, Rockford Bank & Trust and WIPFLI. The silver sponsor was Thayer Lighting and the award sponsor was United Way. theVoice

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Member Profile PROFILE

Goodwill of Northern Illinois

80 years of making an impact in the community

By Paul Anthony Arco After 80 years, good things continue to happen for Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois.

Goodwill is a nonprofit organization that provides job training, employment placement services and other community-based programs for people who have barriers preventing them from getting a job.

“Our participants have a great number of challenges that they overcome including lack of education, learning disabilities, developmental disabilities, lack of work experience, lack of transportation, and sometimes, lack of support outside of Goodwill,” said Goodwill President Sam Schmitz. “We work with our participants and help them to reach their fullest potential through programs. The difference made by the dignity of work and the motivation and encouragement from job coaches, as well as a supportive work environment, is incredible.”

Last year, Goodwill opened its first outlet store in Rockford on West Riverside Boulevard. The store sells last-chance items before they’re sent to

a recycling center. Customers pay by the pound for items that sell for as low as 99 cents a pound.

In November, the nonprofit organization moved into new offices at 850 N. Church St., which offered better access for students who need bus transportation to get to the Church Street classrooms.

Overcoming Area Poverty Now, Goodwill leaders have bigger plans. They are looking to build an Excel Center in Rockford to help overcome the region’s poverty issue. The Excel Center concept came from a Goodwill chapter in Indianapolis and has spread to a dozen other locations. The school would be tuition-free for adults and offer day and evening classes, childcare, counseling and the chance to earn vocational certifications. The possibility of an Excel Center coming to fruition depends on funding ($2 million a year) and legislation passing a bill that would eliminate a diploma age limit. Currently, state law prohibits high schools giving diplomas to students 21 and over.

“We know this is not the only way to increase the community’s education

Goodwill of Northern Illinois has 550 employees in 13 locations in an 18-county area, such as the ones shown from the Algonquin, Ill., location. levels, but it is one more tool to help increase the education and skills in our community and move people out of poverty,” Schmitz said.

In 2016, Goodwill of Northern Illinois served 8,153 people through its programs.

Of those, 247 people obtained jobs and 187 completed adult education classes.

Goodwill is funded by a large network of retail thrift stores, which operate as nonprofits as well, selling used clothing and household goods. Goodwill of Northern Illinois has 550 employees in 13 locations throughout an 18-county area in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin.

“Over time, we’ve completely changed our business model,” said Schmitz, who joined the organization in 2008. “Our budget has grown from $4.5 million nine years ago to $16 million this year. We’re profitable and serving more people than we’ve ever had through our programs.”

Goodwill’s success lies in its programs.

The GoodGRADS program, for example, served 187 individuals last year. In addition, Goodwill gave out 357 scholarships for people to take their high school equivalency test.

Goodwill’s work program offers employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities in nine community locations. In 2016, Goodwill served 66 individuals with 13 participants transitioning to community work.

The Let’s Go to Work Retail training provided 251 students and individuals with disabilities with retail industry training. Goodwill also operates seasonal free income tax preparation and filing sites for individuals and families with income less than $54,000.

“Hopefully we can keep it going for the next century,” said Schmitz, who also serves on the Goodwill International board. “It’s an honor to see people walk through that door and weeks or months later, walk out in a much better place in their lives.”

GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF NORTHERN ILLINOIS President: Sam Schmitz 850 N. Church St. www.goodwillni.org 815-965-3795

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May 2017

You talk: The district responds Let’s Talk! tool creates two-way communication

In the Rockford Public Schools, we are committed to listening. But we don’t only listen. We are committed to responding in a way that is prompt, genuine and a guide toward continuous improvement.

One of the ways we practice deep listening and true two-way communication is called Let’s Talk!

Maybe you have seen the Let’s Talk! icon on our rps205.com website. Maybe you have seen a mention on our Facebook page, on a Let’s Talk! billboard or a Rockford Mass Transit District bus.

As the name implies, Let’s Talk! is an interactive customer service tool.

It allows people to submit questions, concerns, comments and compliments to the district 24/7 from their mobile phone or computer. Once people submit, district staff members are instructed to respond within a maximum of 48 hours. Once a reply is entered, people who asked questions are invited to rate responses on a scale of 1 to 10.

As we approach the end of our third school year with the tool, we are proud of the results. As of early spring, we

As the name implies, Let’s Talk! is an interactive customer service tool. It allows people to submit questions, concerns, comments and compliments to the district 24/7 from their mobile phone or computer. received 4,706 dialogues with an average age of 2.3 days — meaning that we are close to our goal of responding within 48 hours. Our average feedback score is 7.4.

While we’d love to have a “10,” the system is still relatively young. We began Let’s Talk! with employees in our administration building in September of 2014. We completed our rollout to all 46 school buildings in January of this year.

We are seeing early successes, demonstrated by the interactions that Let’s Talk! users ranked as a “10”: ■■ How do I re-enroll my home-schooled child in the district?

■■ Where can my son get extra tutoring help?

■■ I’d like to compliment the district on its facilities improvements.

A call to the Rockford Public Schools

used to mean a request was written on a sticky note or in a phone log. Perhaps that phone call would be returned, perhaps it would be documented somewhere, but Let’s Talk! gets us to a better place. It allows us to aggregate the requests and see what’s trending.

Let’s Talk! also allows us to be aware of a larger context around information.

Like a lot of organizations, we are susceptible to the recency effect: Our perceptions can be skewed by the loudest advocate at last night’s meeting or last person we talked to.

Let’s Talk! reminds us of the bigger picture.

The Let’s Talk! tool is one part of a larger effort by the district to listen and respond in a systematic way. Every year I visit each of our school buildings to talk to faculty. We also listen via annual

surveys, focus groups, the District Parent Advisory Council, the Bilingual Parent Advisory Council, the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council and the District Leadership Team (which brings together teachers, principals and administrative leaders). Our social media presence is growing and highly interactive — Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. We also have a responsive website in rps205.com.

The Rockford Public Schools serves more than 28,000 students, more than 4,000 employees and a community of nearly 150,000 people. Many individuals are impacted by the decisions of the district, whether parents, students, staff members or taxpayers. We owe them a careful ear, a swift and complete response to their concerns, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

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.

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IGNITE

Young Professionals

An unfriendly Lent Giving up a daily habit

Every now and then, life slaps you with a moment of reality. Moments like noticing your favorite pair of pants simply don’t fit like they used to (and never in a good way). Or when the sunlight hits your end table just right, and you notice a lovely sheen of dust where you swear you just dusted. These moments of reality always seem to come out of nowhere, though once they hit, you can think back and see the red flags.

When was the last time I actually took the time to dust? When was the last time dinner wasn’t out of a take-out box or didn’t involve dessert? Once life makes us stop in tracks, the patterns that have been developing over time seem suddenly clearer. But it usually takes a jolting stop to make us break out of our habits, blink and actually take a look around.

This was what happened to me a few days before the Lenten season began.

Each year, I try to make a sacrifice throughout Lent by giving something up — a tradition many are familiar with. I always dread the season, which is probably a topic for a different

article, but usually try my best to give up something that would be noticeable to me. Previous years have involved chocolate, swearing (whoops), and other guilty pleasures. But this year, I wanted something more.

One day, while aimlessly scrolling through my phone, my eyes glazing over and no real thoughts prancing through the space between my ears, it hit me: I needed to give up Facebook for Lent.

Suddenly, the red flags seemed clearer. I would put off doing tasks by just taking a quick spin through my newsfeed. I’d spend time in waiting rooms looking mindlessly at updates I had just looked at a few minutes before. I was addicted to clearing the notifications on my phone – the little red number in the corner constantly beckoning me to open the app. I was wasting precious time – time I would never get back – looking at Buzzfeed quiz results, far too many videos of issues that were making me anxious, and recipes I’d probably never make.

I really wasn’t taking in substantive content – I was just wasting time.

Taking a Social Media Break I decided to go cold turkey and try to tamper my addiction. I removed the app from my phone and decided to start paying attention to the world around me rather than aimlessly scrolling.

While the experience was one that I think I’ll repeat, I have to say that I was hoping my life would suddenly be brighter, lighter and far more intellectual. I think I perhaps had too high of expectations. I commented to a friend that I had hoped it would feel like losing 100 pounds, but instead felt more like losing two pounds. She offered the advice that perhaps it was a lot like real weight loss – it comes off a little at a time, but adds up quickly.

Now that Lent is behind us, I’m back on the social map. And I have to say, I’m disappointed in my return. The first day, it was fun to scroll through and see all the extremely happy news I missed.

Friends announced pregnancies, new jobs and new homes while I was away.

I was pleasantly surprised to see that after a hiatus, the positive stuck out far more than the negative. But, after

about a week or two of using the site again,

Caitlin Pusateri IGNITE

I found myself with glazed-over eyes and pointless scrolling once again. Addiction is real, and I think perhaps social media is a dangerous one. As I try to decide what to do about my constant checking, I keep thinking that perhaps I need another break from the site.

Real life is worth living and experiencing first hand. I have things to do – ideas to get out into the world, connections to make, and deadlines to meet. And that seemed easier without the social media distractions. So I feel I’m at a crossroads. Social media provides me with quite a bit, but at a cost. Is it one I’m willing to pay? I think I’m going to negotiate the price a little bit … and perhaps connect into the real world a bit more.

Caitlin (Ludwig) Pusateri is IGNITE coordinator and VP, leadership development at the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

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May 2017

A new, four-story women and children’s tower projected to open in 2020 will allow SwedishAmerican to expand maternity care services for patients.

SwedishAmerican to invest $130 million in its downtown campus Community needs driving expansions, renovations

By Barbara Connors SwedishAmerican, a division of UW Health, announced on April 11 a $130 million investment in its downtown Rockford campus that will result in new healthcare jobs and more than 600 union labor construction jobs.

Construction will begin as soon as September 2017 for a new, fourstory women and children’s tower to accommodate in-house specialist physicians from the University of Wisconsin American Family Children’s Hospital. It will house a Level III neonatal intensive care unit, private labor & delivery and mother/ baby suites, maternal fetal medicine department and outpatient pediatric specialty clinics. It’s expected to open by 2020.

“As the busiest hospital in northern Illinois for maternity care, we believe it is critically important that we offer a Level III NICU service close to where many of our patients live,” said Dr. Bill Gorski, president and CEO of SwedishAmerican.

Once perinatal services are centralized in the new tower, the existing hospital will be modernized with renovated, all-private inpatient rooms. Renovations also will include more operating rooms and an expansion of the emergency department with more triage and trauma rooms and specialized pediatrics emergency department services. A new state-ofthe-art cath lab facility will house five cath lab suites, and the mental health department will expand to 42 beds for adolescent and adult patients.

Plans for these projects have been in the works for several years. The emergency department completed in 2001 and built for 45,000 annual visits has seen nearly 75,000 patients annually. Increasing the behavioral health department by 30 percent more beds has come in recognition of documented community needs.

With this construction, SwedishAmerican will have invested more than $630 million in its campus since 2001.

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May 2017

Growing travel grows jobs Travel & Tourism Week promotes the power of travel Most people are likely familiar with the frequently touted (and researchproven) positive effects of travel on our work performance, relationships and personal well-being.

RACVB promoted the valuable use of vacation time earlier this year as we celebrated Project Time-Off with communities throughout the state and encouraged visitors and residents to explore Illinois.

John Groh Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

roads and airports, to safely keeping America’s doors open to international visitors — are necessary for the health of our country. Travel played a major role

in

economic

America’s

post-recession

recovery;

according

to

the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the industry has recovered far faster than other economic sectors since 2008.

Travel is also our country’s number one service export, accounting for 11.2

Policies that protect and promote travel — from improvements to our roads and airports, to safely keeping America’s doors open to international visitors — are necessary for the health of our country.

percent of all U.S. exports in 2016.

It’s travel’s economic power, though, that arguably deserves more attention.

Travel is a top-10 employer in 49 states and the District of Columbia.

Spending by travelers everywhere in the United States, which currently totals over $990 billion annually, supports 15.3 million American jobs.

That’s one in nine Americans whose employment depends on a healthy travel industry. And in Winnebago County and Rockford, the travel industry now supports more than 2,800 jobs and pumps more than $350 million into the economy.

In May, travel industry workers across the country are celebrating the 34th annual National Travel and Tourism Week, May 7 to 13.

This year’s theme, “Faces of Travel,” highlights the people behind our nation’s travel industry — and the need to craft smart, travel-friendly policies that keep their jobs flourishing.

Here in Rockford, we will be working closely with our partners to showcase the Rockford region throughout the week and get ready for the busy summer travel season.

We anticipate that some newer events will continue to see gains in attendance numbers such as the popular Rockford Town Fair (June 1 to 4) and Tough Mudder (Aug. 26 to 27).

could modernize our World War II-era

Policies that Promote Travel Policies that protect and promote travel — from improvements to our

Modernizing infrastructure,

our particularly

travel our

airports, is one critical step. Not a single U.S. airport is ranked in the top 25 in the world. This is partly due to the financing structure that funds improvement projects at major airports, which has not been altered since 2000.

If that were corrected, airports air traffic control system, make muchneeded safety updates, and add gate space — which would spur competition among airlines by allowing more carrier options, improving prices and service for customers.

Strengthening the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), as well, would both boost our economy and improve security for all travelers in the United States. The program allows prescreened and pre-approved travelers from 38 of America’s closest and most trusted allied countries to enter the U.S. without a visitor visa. The VWP not only strengthens diplomatic relations and security standards, but VWP traveler spending also generates $190 billion in U.S. economic output each year.

Travel makes a difference in our communities and lives every day. As we celebrate the impact of travel this week, let your favorite local sites and attractions know how much they mean to you and the quality of life in the Rockford region!

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

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

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May 2017

Explore Rockford!

Seasonal fun every day of the week

By Barbara Connors The Rockford Region in summer truly comes alive. This is the season when residents and visitors get out and enjoy themselves with the vibrant mix of street festivals, open markets and outdoor entertainment that the area offers. Below find some ways to have summer fun (almost) every day of the week.

TUESDAYS TUESDAY EVENINGS IN THE GARDENS andersongardens.org On Tuesday evenings, May to August, residents enjoy the long summer evenings outdoors with family, friends and live music at the pavilion at Anderson Japanese Gardens. Performances start at 5:45 p.m., but come early; guests arrive at 5 p.m., to set up picnic areas, which fill up fast, with lawn chairs, blankets and picnic suppers. Local restaurants sell food and beverages to those who prefer purchasing their evening dinners. Visit the web site for the music lineup.

TUNES ON THE TERRACE nicholasconservatory.com/ tunes-on-the-terrace Relax and listen to local musicians on select Wednesday evenings, June 21 to Sept. 13, from 6 to 8 p.m., on the Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens outdoor terrace. All concerts, from jazz, folk, Latin and country are free. Don’t forget a lawn chair or blanket. Beverages (including alcoholic and nonalcoholic) and food is available for purchase. Visit the website for the music lineup.

Also check out Rockton River Market (rocktonrivermarket.com) on Wednesdays, June to August.

WEDNESDAYS EDGEBROOK FARMERS MARKET edgebrookshops.com/events/ farmers-market Edgebrook Farmers Market is open for the 2017 season on Wednesdays, May to October, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Local farmers display their highest quality vegetables, fruits, flowers and plants in addition to organic produce, baked breads and sweet treats, artisan cheeses, maple syrup, honey, farm fresh eggs, jams and jellies.

THURSDAYS DINNER ON THE DOCK psbrewingco.com Summer weekends start early in Rockford as residents and visitors venture on Thursday nights to the outside decks of Prairie Street

Explore Rockford: Things to Do / Meeting Places

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Explore Rockford: Things to Do / Meeting Places

May 2017

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Brewing Co., for Dinner on the Dock, May 18 to Aug. 31, from 5 to 10 p.m.

Boat slips along the Rock River fill for the live music and food. Check the web site for the music lineup.

EDGEBROOK edgebrookshops.com Experience live music at Music on the Mall located outside of Mary’s Market café at Edgebrook on select Friday evenings, May 12 to Sept. 15, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Bring your own chair, as seating is limited. Call 815-3940765 for weather-related inquiries. Visit the website for the music lineup.

FRIDAYS ROCKFORD CITY MARKET rockfordcitymarket.com Friday afternoons to evenings, 3:30 to 8:30 p.m., May to September, Rockford City Market is a major gathering place in downtown Rockford at Water and Market streets for live music, demonstrations, kids’ activities, food and local brews. More than 70 local vendors market their natural products: vegetables, fruits, eggs, meats, cheeses, flowers, herbs, baked goods and healthy snacks, and artisans sell their unique creations. The Rockford Vintage Market takes place on July 15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Rockford City Market, 100 N. Water St. Vendors sell quality vintage, antique and repurposed items including home and garden goods, furniture, clothing, jewelry, art and children’s items.

SHOP THE BLOCKS The summer “Shop the Blocks” events return to downtown Rockford, complete with sidewalk sales and alfresco dining on the first Friday of each month, June through September, from 3 to 8 p.m.

Select parking spaces will be turned into temporary interactive openair “parklets,” or tiny parks where visitors can kick back and relax, connect with old friends and new, and even do something unique, like play a game of life-sized chess.

SATURDAYS THE NORTH END CITY MARKET rockfordcitymarket.com/northend

FRIDAY NIGHT FLIX Facebook: FridayNightFlix Grab lawn chairs and bring families for Friday Night Flix, with three showings of kid-friendly, free movies under the night sky near the Rockford City Market on the North Lawn of Davis Park. Check facebook for the movie listings.

Saturday mornings from May to October from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the North End City Market is the gathering place for fresh air, fresh food and local products. Socializing, shopping and eating at the market at North Main and Auburn streets has been a weekly tradition for the people living in the North End neighborhoods for many years.

Also check out Belvidere Farmers Market & Crafts (belviderefarmersmarket.com) on Saturdays, May to October.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

May 2017

Explore Rockford: Things to Do / Meeting Places

11

Jennifer Smith, Rockford resident and bike enthusiast, rides the Rails to Trails pedestrian/bike bridge, between Davis Park and Morgan Street.

Two wheels, one city, no limits Seeing the city from a new perspective

There’s nothing quite like seeing Rockford come alive every May. I have the great fortune of living in Edgewater Neighborhood, where dog walkers and families with strollers traverse freely year-round. But the onset of spring and summer is something to behold. From a jam-packed Sinnissippi path and the music from Anderson Japanese Gardens floating across the Rock River, from the Forest City Queen gliding by, to the roar of the crowd at Ski Bronc shows, the sights and sounds of summer permeate the long, sunny days.

There is a way to amplify your enjoyment of these amenities that not only improves your own physical health, but the fiscal health of our community, while at the same time decreasing your impact on the environment, improving your access to familiar and new adventures, and affording opportunities to get to know the people and places of our city more deeply.

Biking is a great way to accomplish all of this. Today, I’ll focus on three reasons: proximity, perception and practicality.

Proximity Between Destinations One great advantage of the amenities already mentioned is proximity to each other and many more on both sides of the river in the area around downtown. Some amenities are accessed directly from the Sinnissippi path, or are immediately adjacent, and many more are within a short ride on streets to which the path

connects.

Madison Street in particular is active and lively from north to south. The summer addition of separated bike lanes on the State Street bridge opens more of the city to bikes and pedestrians, and the “Rails to Trails” bridge just south of Davis Park provides a new East-West connection. While it may seem too far to walk from a concert at Nicholas Conservatory to have a drink at Owly Oop, hop on your bike, and the distance is covered in just a few minutes

Perception of Our Community Biking around Rockford will enhance how you perceive our community. Some may hold a negative perception towards safety when exploring the city by bike.

While it is very true some high-traffic areas are not suitable or advisable for bicyclists, streets in downtown and adjacent neighborhoods are well suited for riding.

Narrower streets, on-street parking and the all-day presence of pedestrians lead to slower traffic and more attentive drivers.

The perception and reality of safety can be greatly improved by planning your route ahead of time (perhaps trying out an unfamiliar route at a less busy time of day) and knowing how to respond to changing traffic patterns and intersection layouts.

Your perception of our city can also be changed by exploring it on two wheels. Appreciation of the natural beauty of a tree-lined street and the

physical beauty of our downtown buildings are greatly enhanced while biking. Chance encounters with friends are easily facilitated by simply pulling up to the curb. Community activity that is unapparent from 30+ mph suddenly makes a district seem vibrant, lived-in and viable. Streets and whole sections of the city aren’t just thoroughfares anymore but instead destinations! Further, some of the most beautiful views in the city are accessible only by bike or by foot, such as the cliffs along the river just north of Riverside and the cityscape and dam by means of the new bike/pedestrian bridge just south of Davis Park.

Transportation Practicality The best argument for enjoying a Rockford summer on two wheels is it is immensely practical. Imagine riding up to front row parking every time, everywhere, even at busy City Market and Dinner on the Dock. If you’ve spent more than 10 minutes getting from one parking space to another in the downtown corridor, you’ve exceeded the time it takes to bike from Nordlof Center to Rockford Art Museum, or from 317 Gallery to Octane.

Improving bike facilities makes economic sense for a community. Studies have shown increased retail traffic along streets with improved bike facilities.

Recent research (Lund University, Sweden) demonstrated every kilometer driven by car costs society 17 cents, while biking one kilometer saves society

18 cents (in health, infrastructure, car collision, environmental impacts, etc.).

Twelve bikes can easily be parked in one parking space. Large portions of our population simply don’t drive, because of age, financial situation or because they choose not to. Ensuring adequate space for the mobility of all residents goes a long way to improving the equity of our community.

Take time this summer to explore Rockford by bike and discover the freedom two wheels can offer!

Jennifer Smith is program and membership coordinator of the Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence at Rockford University.

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

12

May 2017

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Congratulations to the 2016/2017 Leadership Rockford class!

Always wear sunscreen The future looks bright!

By Caitlin Pusateri, Rockford Chamber It’s graduation season – a time for unsolicited advice and cake. I actually really love graduation speeches – they are usually filled with such hope, words of wisdom, and if done well, a bit of laughter. I was young when the “Always Wear Sunscreen” advice hit the airwaves. Perhaps it was my youth or just the deep gravel of Baz Luhrmann’s voice, speaking the words Mary Schmich so eloquently penned in her Chicago Tribune column. Either way – the thought stuck with me, and I find myself re-listening to the song every now and then, finding new truths and beauty in it.

Graduation is a time of hope and splendor – a time when you face the world with arms open and a powerful, overzealous sense of possibility. While this rite of passage is usually reserved for high-school or college grads, there are plenty of graduations in our life, often less celebrated, that evoke such feelings. Perhaps it’s achieving a weightloss goal, finishing writing a book or winning a big case you’ve worked hard on. Other times, more formal celebrations mark the completion of your efforts – usually with cake.

Some Post-Graduation Advice On May 18, the Rockford Chamber will celebrate a graduation of our own – the 63rd graduating class of Leadership Rockford (formally known as CAP). Designed to provide a holistic understanding of the Rockford community, Leadership Rockford is an eight-month program suitable for

Photo by Brian Thomas Photography

emerging leaders, leaders new to the community or leaders eager to become more involved in the Rockford region.

Members of the class represent a wide range of backgrounds, organizations and levels of experience.

The mission of Leadership Rockford is to build leadership skills and enhance awareness of business, government and civic issues through interaction and direct involvement with business and community leaders.

Whether a life-long resident of the community or a newcomer, Leadership Rockford provides each participant with an in-depth understanding of the

local community, including its history, opportunities and successes.

But what would a graduation be without words of advice? As a previous graduate myself and now the leader of the program, I wanted to offer a few words of advice for this year’s graduates: Get Involved. As the Leadership Rockford program ends in May, your commitment to the community should not. This eight-month experience has been one that’s opened your eyes to countless opportunities and put you in touch with leaders who are making a difference. It’s now time for you to step into the light and become one of those

You’re Invited to the Celebration!

Join us in the celebration at our upcoming Celebration of Leadership on May 18 at Prairie Street Brewhouse from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., presented by PNC Bank. Register today at www.rockfordchamber.com.

leaders. Take that chance – raise your hand – get involved.

Support Your Fellow Leaders.

You’ve created a bond with your fellow classmates – stay in touch! These individuals will continue to grow their careers, their reach and their impact.

Be a part of that. As you expand your horizons, remember to look around and see whom you can take with you.

Perhaps you’ll become a manager one day who has the opportunity to place someone in the Leadership Rockford program – prioritize that.

Maybe a girlfriend is looking to make a difference in her community – use your connections to help place her on a board. Offer words of congratulations as others achieve new goals and offer words of encouragement when they try something and fail. There’s a lot of magic in the failure. Help foster that and push our community forward.

Oh, and Always Wear Sunscreen.

Leadership Development news is sponsored by Comcast Business.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

13

May 2017

New Illinois Laws for 2017

Issues to Watch LEGISLATIVE

Here are some laws related to crime, courts, corrections and law enforcement that have taken affect this year. For specific language of the laws, visit ilga.gov.

CRIME, COURTS, CORRECTIONS, LAW ENFORCEMENT Juvenile Critical Incidents HB 114/PA 99-0664 States that if the Department of Children and Family Services is appointed legal custodian or guardian of a minor the department must file updated case plans with the court every six months. Requires the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) to file a critical incident report within 10 days after the occurrence of a critical incident involving a youth committed to the DJJ. Also requires the DJJ must file a detailed case plan with the court every six months for every juvenile held in detention facility.

Bath Salts Prohibition SB 210/PA 99-0585 Makes it a Class 3 felony with a maximum $150 fine to sell or offer for sale any bath salts in a retail mercantile establishment. The bill defines “bath salts” as any synthetic or natural material containing any quantity of a cathinone chemical structure, including any analogs, salts, isomers or salts of isomers of any synthetic or natural material containing a cathinone chemical structure.

Capitol Police Age Limit SB 805/PA 99-0896 Provides that the Secretary of State may not retain a person employed in the title of capitol police investigator and who began employment on or after Jan. 1, 2011 (Tier 2) in service as an investigator after he or she has reached 65 years of age (rather than the current 60 years of age limit for Illinois Vehicle Code investigators of the Secretary of State).

Rental Property Theft SB 1120/PA 99-0534 Adds rented equipment such as tools, construction equipment and party or special event rentals to the offense of theft of labor, services or property.

Criminal Racial Data HB 1437/PA 99-0666 Requires the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA) to use data reported by law enforcement agencies to determine and report the number of persons arrested and released without being charged, and report the racial and ethnic composition of those persons.

Bail Payments SB 2252/PA 99-0618 Allows bail payments to be in the form of currency as well as other forms of payment as the sheriff, by rule, shall authorize.

Citizen Privacy Protection Act SB 2343/PA 99-0622 Requires law enforcement to obtain a warrant based on probable cause

before using cell site simulator. The bill would also require law enforcement to delete any data the devices pick up from phones used by those who aren’t the target of an investigation.

Community Board Approved Loans SB 2359/PA 99-0849 Allows the Board of the Association to obtain loans and mortgage or pledge assets of the association if approved by a majority vote of the entire board of managers and no longer require a vote of the owners.

Minors Charged with Homicide Counsel SB 2370/PA 99-0882 Requires that minors under 15 years of age (rather than 13 years of age) be represented by counsel throughout the entire custodial interrogation of the minor for homicide and certain sex offenses. Provides for a simplified Miranda warning be given to minors during custodial interrogation and expands videotaping requirement of minors during questioning.

Judicial Video Conferencing Mental Health Hearing SB 2459/PA 99-0535 Authorizes the use of video conferencing in hearings to authorize involuntary administration of psychotropic medication and electroconvulsive therapy. Any court may permit any witness, including a psychiatrist, to testify by video conferencing equipment from any location in the absence of a court rule specifically prohibiting that testimony.

Guilty Pleas HB 2569/PA 99-0871 States that before a court can accept a guilty plea the court must explain to the defendant that as a consequence of a conviction or plea of guilty there may be an impact on the defendant as to (1) enhanced sentencing on future crimes, (2) offender registration requirements, and (3) the defendant’s ability to retain or obtain housing, employment, firearms, an occupational license, or a driver’s license.

Addiction Treatment Vacate Judgment SB 2601/PA 99-0574 Gives a person who has successfully completed alcohol or drug addiction treatment as a condition of probation more time in which to file a motion to vacate the judgment of conviction if they are eligible.

Juvenile Offense Reduction SB 2777/PA 99-0628 Amends the Juvenile Court Act of 1987 so that a minor cannot be committed to the Department of Juvenile Justice for a Class 4 felony of criminal trespass to a residence, criminal damage to property, criminal damage to governmentsupported property, criminal defacement of property, disorderly

conduct or obstructing justice.

Enforcing Judgments SB 2833/PA 99-0739 Provides that a judgment made by a hearing officer, during cases in which a defendant does not comply with a judgment, can be enforced the same way a judgment entered by a court would be enforced.

Electronic Search Warrants SB 2875/PA 99-0798 Allows for a warrant seeking current or future location information to be made through testimony using a simultaneous video and audio transmission between the requestor and judge, based on sworn testimony communicated in the transmission.

Child Victim Battery Testimony SB 2880/PA 99-0630 Allows taking victim’s testimony via one-way closed circuit television in aggravated battery or aggravated domestic battery offenses of a child or developmentally delayed victim if it is taken during the proceeding and the trial court determines that testimony by the child or developmentally delayed victim in the courtroom will result in serious emotional trauma or severe emotional distress.

Conviction Reversal Costs Refunds SB 2885/PA 99-0883 Provides that a defendant whose conviction is reversed by a finding of

actual innocence, the refund of costs paid by the defendant shall be determined by the judge and paid by the clerk of the court based upon the availability of funds in the subject fund account.

Money Laundering Joinder SB 2876/PA 99-0629 Adds the criminal offense of money laundering to the list of offenses that can be joined into one count of an indictment, rather than requiring each transaction to be prosecuted separately.

Sexual Assault Incidents SB 3096/PA 99-0801 Creates the Sexual Assault Incident Procedure Act. Requires law enforcement officers to complete written reports of every sexual assault complaint. Extends the time period for victims to consent to the release of their forensic evidence kit for testing. Allows victims to request the status of their rape kit testing unless doing so would compromise or impede an ongoing investigation. Requires the Illinois State Police (ISP) to develop administrative rules on release of toxicological reports from crime lab. Allows the employment of polygraph operators to be permissive rather than mandatory. For a period of two years allows the ISP to work more directly with the Chief Procurement Officer on their contracts for equipment, services and commodities as ISP addresses the backlog.

14

City of Innovation (Business Ingenuity)

May 2017

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

PATH for small business startups New option for claiming research credit A new option now enables eligible small businesses to apply part or all of their research credit against their payroll tax liability, instead of their income tax liability, according to the Internal Revenue Service.

The new provision is part of the An eligible small business with Protecting Americans From Tax qualifying research expenses Hikes (PATH) Act and can be applied to the 2016 federal income tax can choose to apply up to $250,000 of its research credit return. Those who have already filed still can choose this option, even against its payroll tax liability. with tax day come and gone.

To qualify for the current tax-year, a business must have gross receipts of less than $5 million and no gross receipts prior to 2012. An eligible small business with qualifying research expenses can choose to apply up to $250,000 of its research credit against its payroll tax liability by filling out Form 6765, Credit for Increasing Research Activities, and attaching it to a business income tax return. Under a special rule for tax-year 2016, a small business that failed to choose this option and still wishes to do so, can still make the election by filing an amended return by Dec. 31, 2017.

After choosing this option, a small business claims the payroll tax credit by filling out Form 8974, Qualified Small Business Payroll Tax Credit for Increasing Research Activities, which must be attached to its payroll tax return.

For more information on the research credit, see the instructions to Form 6765 or visit IRS.gov.

Students and faculty at Illinois universities have created 804 startups through technology licensing, entrepreneurship programs, competitions and other university initiatives during the past five academic years. Infograph by Leff Communications.

Illinois universities fuel record startups Illinois has experienced record growth in entrepreneurial activity at its universities according to Illinois Science and Technology Coalition’s Illinois Innovation Index released on March 8. The ISTC attributes the increased startup activity to efforts at Illinois’ universities to provide students and faculty with resources like classes, programming, competitions, and mentorship, which facilitate entrepreneurship.

■■ Illinois universities produced more than 800 startups from 2012 to 2016, nearly 100 percent more than 2009 to 2013.

■■ Approximately 76 percent of startups founded from 2012 to 2016 are still active or were acquired, and 81 percent of those, nearly 500 companies, remain in Illinois — the highest level recorded since the survey began.

■■ Capital raised by university startups also surged in 2016, with nearly $630 million in funding raised from 2012 to 2016 compared with $345 million from 2011 to 2015. Of the companies that were founded in Illinois and received funding, almost 8 in 10 are still in Illinois.

Northern Illinois University was noted for its new entrepreneurship and social responsibility program, which offers students an education in business focused on launching new ventures and fostering innovation and social impact.

Students get hands-on entrepreneurship experience, internships, and access to an extensive alumni network. The program was named a finalist in the Excellence in Entrepreneurship Education Awards by the International Council for Small Business in 2016.

Source: www.illinoisinnovation.com/ innovation-index

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

City of Innovation (Business Ingenuity)

May 2017

15

NIU EIGERlab’s Cobert honored

By Sherry Pritz

Bringing Ideas to Life

Mike Cobert, NIU EIGERlab’s Center for Product Development (C4PD) guru, was chosen as the Rockford Chamber of Commerce’s Business Catalyst of the Year Award recipient.

This award comes as no surprise to the many whom Cobert has assisted along the way. Entrepreneurs with both their utilitarian and sophisticated inventions, and existing business owners who chose to expand their innovative products lines, have relied on Cobert and the NIU EIGERlab team.

The ever-humble Mike didn’t see the award coming. “I was totally surprised, and humbled — it’s a tremendous honor. Two things that I enjoy are building things and helping people.

In my position at the C4PD, I’m able to accomplish both, which results in positive outcomes for the entrepreneur or business entity, and ultimately our region. NIU EIGERlab is part of the regional economy. I’ve been glad to assist with restarting the Rockford Makerspace Network and helping to open the Rockford Makerspace, which is a place where anyone can go to make/ build things. I thank the Chamber for recognizing the importance of innovators and entrepreneurs in our regional economy.”

Innovation is the driver of our regional economy and a critical component in the manufacturing sector, in the creation of new solutions, new products and new companies.

Cobert himself is an innovator and a support system for other innovators.

He has been referred to often as an “unsung hero.” His quiet, thoughtful and creative approach to his work has catalyzed the development of new products, facilitated the establishment and growth of new companies, and impacted the lives of many in our community.

He was with EIGERlab from the beginning. Coming out of 20 years with Ingersoll Milling Machine Co., he was part of the team that created a new nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of manufacturing in the Rockford area.

Today, Cobert and his work with NIU EIGERlab’s Center for Product Development form the backbone of the enterprise. People walk in with an idea, and Cobert and the team take them through design, engineering and prototyping. Along the way, he becomes a trusted and invaluable member of the fledgling company’s team.

PHOTO BY BRIAN THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY

Product Development Catalyst award

Mike Cobert, NIU EIGERlab, accepts the Rockford Chamber Business Catalyst of the Year Award for his work in helping entrepreneurs turn their ideas into marketable products.

Photo by Brian Thomas Photography

“Mike’s ingenuity and expertise have helped us in the development and conception of many proprietary products that will be coming to the market. A new business venture can be intimidating, but we are confident we will be successful because of the great partnership we have with Mike and NIU EIGERlab,” said Charlie Hare with Restoration Tools.

Dr. Rena Cotsones, associate vice president for outreach, engagement and regional development at Northern Illinois University, explained, “Mike’s work is an ideal example of the type of engagement we imagined when we took on EIGERlab. He is fully engaged every day with innovators, entrepreneurs, businesses and many others whom he brings together to serve clients’ needs and aspirations. He does his work

quietly and effectively, and the impact is significant – in the form of products developed and brought to market, companies started or expanded and jobs created.”

If the development of a new product, and perchance new business is in your future, contact Cobert to engage his expertise, employ his team and use his network of regional partners who can bring your idea to fruition, MCobert@ EIGERlab.org.

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

Innovation

Network/NIU-

Rockford.

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

16

May 2017

The benefits of partnership

Industrial Partnership brings two Swedish companies The Rockford Area Economic Development Council welcomes Linnea Bengtsson, international business developer, City of Lidköping & County of Skaraborg, Sweden back to the Rockford Region. As part of the Industrial Partnership between Lidköping, Sweden and the City of Rockford, Bengtsson spends time in both countries to serve as a cultural translator and liaison when companies are seeking partnerships or to expand into these markets.

During Bengtsson’s most recent time in Sweden, she held 20 meetings, resulting in the Rockford Region appearing in Swedish news on a weekly basis as an opportunity region.

The increased awareness of the area’s opportunities has resulted in two companies scheduled to tour the Rockford Region this spring.

The U.S. market is the third largest export market for Sweden, and this partnership brings the right people to the table at the right time. Bengtsson’s ability to assist Swedish companies navigate the U.S. market and the high level of Swedish-based heritage in the area provides an ideal relationship starting point to further expound on the benefits that can be found within the Rockford Region. As a direct

result of this partnership, Leading Edge Hydraulics has added more than 25 jobs and built a new technology center since partnering with Swedish hydraulic company CEJN AB in Skövde.

Partnership Extended to 2019 In addition to the economic development initiatives, the partnership also facilitates international student projects. This spring, construction students from Lidköping will continue to give a helping hand to the renovations of Swedish Historical Society´s Nordic Cultural Center. The signed educational agreement between the College of Medicine and University of Skövde will move forward with identifying students and faculty for exchanges.

The decade-old partnership between the municipalities has been extended and the funding has been secured for an additional three years, resulting in the continued effort to expand foreign direct investment initiatives through 2019. Though many cities have sister-city relationships, the Industrial Partnership Agreement is worldly unique. This agreement is more of an economic development

‘Economic Development,’ according to Nathan Bryant Sticky Jobs: Jobs that feed other jobs and that increase the “buying power” of the citizens; generally attributed to higher wages with benefits, with clear lines for advancement, and require education, training, and/or skilled trades.

These types of jobs are more difficult to move out of an area and are less likely to be affected by things such as artificial intelligence, redundancy or other aspects of business that make them vulnerable to movement overseas.

Synonym: Primary Jobs.

RAEDC

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

RAEDC launches Business Minute in collaboration with local media outlets

Over the next few months keep your eyes and ears out for the RAEDC Business Minute. Working with local media outlets, Nathan Bryant, RAEDC president & CEO, recorded some of the good things happening in the Rockford Region. These short TV and radio spots will be broadcast on local stations.

Sharing the good news about the region will help continue the momentum needed to drive the region to Top 25 status. The RAEDC continues to collaborate with many regional stakeholders to cultivate opportunities for primary job growth and increase the economic wellbeing of our region.

Listen to the ads by visiting RockfordIL.com/resources.

tool, a navigation and networking tool that helps organizations and companies to grow locally by working globally.

With new government leadership in both municipalities and nationally in the United States, there is an increased need for this type of partnership.

The Industrial Partnership Agreement was first signed between the Mayor Lawrence Morrissey, City of Rockford and Mayor Kjell Hedvall, City of Lidköping, in August of 2006 at the Läckö Castle, Lidköping,

Sweden. SwedishAmerican Chamber of Commerce (SACC) introduced the two cities.

In 2011, the agreement was updated through a signing ceremony via Skype, between Mayor Lawrence Morrissey and Mayor Kjell Hedvall. In 2014 the agreement was updated and expanded and now includes the City of Lidköping and County of Skaraborg on the Swedish side and the City of Rockford, Winnebago County, SwedishAmerican Health System (Rockford) and Sustain Dane (Madison, Wis.) on the U.S. side.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

17

May 2017

Middle class manufacturing jobs are disappearing in Illinois Since 2000, Illinois has been facing a perfect storm for its industrial base.

Illinois manufacturing has lost nearly one fourth of our manufacturing jobs since that time, yet our neighboring states have created opportunity. The numbers in Figure 1 reflect how many manufacturing jobs neighboring states have attracted since the 2009 recession – while here in Illinois, we’ve actually lost jobs. Even Idaho, a state better known for potatoes, has created more.

Often times these sad facts are met with simply a shrug, not with tough questions. Why no concern and why no outrage?

As President and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association, I can tell you that I’ve had enough and so have many of our members. We’ve had it with misguided policy in Springfield, the lack of political leadership, and the core structural problems like unfunded pensions, unpaid state obligations and some of the highest taxes in the country.

Manufacturers aren’t necessarily fleeing the state in droves, although many have left. Instead, when expanding, they choose to do it in other states because they can be more successful.

The numbers make it so clear — government is closing Illinois one day at a time.

MANUFACTURING JOBS CREATED SINCE 2009 163,700 (Michigan) 90,800 (Indiana) 76,700 (Ohio) 41,300 (Wisconsin) -1,600 (Illinois) $74,000 (average wage and benefit) IDAHO +10,300

Figure 1 I would like to propose the IMA’s Middle Class Manufacturing Agenda as an opportunity for Springfield to change direction.

■■ Get the state’s fiscal house in order. We need to restrain spending, balance the budget and adopt pension reform.

■■ Enact meaningful workers’ compensation reform. Illinois can reduce costs on employers while still ensuring that injured workers receive quality health care by pushing back on union leaders, trial attorneys and special interests who are feeding off this system.

■■ Reform the state’s tax code. The best tax systems are broad based with low rates. Illinois needs tax reform

that includes permanent extensions of critical tax incentives.

new products,

■■ Overhaul property taxes. Stop shifting the tax burden onto commercial and industrial taxpayers.

revitalized

■■ Strengthen the education and workforce development system.

Illinois needs to ensure a pipeline of qualified workers for our global economy. As the baby boom generation retires, 30,000 manufacturing engineers and production technicians in Illinois will leave the workforce every year between now and 2028. Finding skilled workers and funding educational programs that do so need to be a top priority of policymakers.

importantly,

The immediate and long-term solutions put forward in the Middle Class Manufacturing Agenda aim to challenge Illinois’ existing state of affairs and bring industry back to the state. The IMA urges lawmakers to prioritize a manufacturing rebirth in Illinois in order to revitalize middleclass and help jumpstart the state’s economy.

Illinois must rebuild and support its manufacturing base in order to fully prosper. It was once the backbone of our economy. Innovation, growth,

country.

new

jobs,

communities, and a

more thriving

middle

class,

Greg Baise Illinois Manufacturers Association

are all possible again. It’s not all doom and gloom.

A

manufacturing

rebirth

Illinois should be a top priority for all lawmakers. I hope to see a revitalized middle class and a state that begins to take advantage of the many natural benefits we have that makes us one of the most well positioned states in the It’s time to get Illinois manufacturing going again. It’s time for a change in Illinois’ political philosophy and direction set by our policy makers. It’s time to get mad, voice our concern, and stop accepting the abysmal status quo.

Greg Baise is the President/CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association The views expressed are those of Baise’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Manufacturing in the News Woodward, Inc., will host analysts and investors on a tour of its two new aerospace facilities in the region on May 10. The tour starts at 9:45 a.m., at the campus in Niles, Ill., (6300 W. Howard St.) and at 2:30 p.m., moves to the Rock Cut Campus at 5257 Harlem Road, Loves Park.

Marty Glass, airframe systems president, and Sagar Patel, aircraft turbine systems president, will lead the tours. Email Jackaline Rutter, Jackaline.

Rutter@woodward.com, for questions.

in

PCI Clinical Services announced a second-phase 400 percent increase in cryogenic storage capabilities at its Rockford site, following its initial capital investment in specialist cryogenic storage in November of last year.

The additional capacity is housed in the 93,000-sq.-ft. Logistics Parkway building at the PCI Rockford campus, which was built in 2015 to support clinical trials storage and distribution. It’s one of seven facilities in Rockford.

18

May 2017

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

What kind of community do we want to be?

Livability.com gives some clues

Who will chart our sustainable path?

What it looks like for the Rockford Region

By Alex Gary For nearly 25 years, Brad Roos headed Rockford’s ZION Developments, guiding the organization to invest more than $25 million in rehabilitation projects in what is now known as the Mid-Town District.

Before that he studied and taught environmental sciences. “I’m a cardcarrying member of the American Solar Energy Society,” he says with conviction.

In October, Roos, who retired from ZION in 2014, went to Dubuque, Iowa, to attend a regional conference on creating or strengthening sustainable cities.

“I was astonished at the degree of sophistication that some communities and regions were assuming in a holistic approach to the sustainability of their community,” he said. “It was like drinking from a fire hose.”

Roos came back to Rockford determined to see how our region compares with the communities in attendance in Dubuque. He talked with people in Rockford city government, Winnebago County and RMAP (Rockford Metropolitan Agency for Planning) and several others.

“I found that, by and large, we have plans that discuss sustainability, but we don’t have one unified plan … and nobody or no organization has the responsibility or authority to implement the plans, other than the individual organizations.”

At this point, we should stop and define sustainability. Many believe that means being a green community, fully embracing recycling and alternative energy sources. All sustainability

efforts have those at their core, but true sustainability is larger than that. Star Communities, a nonprofit organization that certifies the efforts of communities, says a sustainable community: ■■ Thinks and acts systematically.

■■ Instills resiliency.

■■ Fosters innovation.

■■ Redefines progress.

■■ Lives within its means.

■■ Cultivates collaboration.

■■ Ensures equity.

■■ Embraces diversity.

■■ Inspires leadership.

■■ Continuously improves.

Implementing ‘Sustainability’ In December, Roos launched a monthly meeting of like-minded individuals to study the sustainability landscape. They call themselves the Sustainability Working Group and the meetings have drawn people from city and county government, the Rockford Park District, Freedom Field, Rock Valley College and some private individuals eager to be involved. The group has narrowed its focus to studying three different sustainability models.

■■ Dubuque created a sustainability department within its city government with staffers making sure all levels of government follow its sustainability plan.

■■ Elgin has a sustainability commission, manned by volunteers, but there is one paid liaison, an Elgin city staffer who attends all of those meetings and works with the Elgin City Council to keep the focus on sustainability.

■■ Madison, Wis.’s sustainability efforts are led by a completely separate nonprofit

Most people involved with Transform Rockford — staffers and volunteers — have inevitably been asked the question, “which communities are we trying to catch and pass to become a top 25 community by 2025?” Transform Rockford, the organization, has been deliberately vague about that question. There are lots of different ways to look at communities and there are a plethora of lists.

One of my favorite sites is Livability.com, which studies and publishes a number of lists such as “Top 50 Best Cities for Entrepreneurs” and “Top 10 Best Cities for Families.”

Recently, Livability published its annual “Top 100 Best Places to Live” for cities between 20,000 and 350,000 people. Livability scored cities on amenities, demographics, economy, education, healthcare, housing, social and civic capital and transportation and infrastructure.

This is not an endorsement of this list being the definitive one we are trying to make it onto. If however, Rockford improves to the point it is compared with any of the cities in the top 25, well, that will be quite an accomplishment.

Livability.com’s top 25 of the “100 Best Places to Live” in 2017: 1. Rochester, Minn.

2. Iowa City, Iowa 3. Ann Arbor, Mich.

4. Olympia, Wash.

5. Charlottesville, Va. 6. Bellevue, Wash.

7. Palo Alto, Calif.

8. Madison, Wis. 9. Overland Park, Kan.

10. Bismark, S.D. 11. Burlington, Vt. 12. Newton, Mass.

13. Rockville, Md. 14. Ithaca, N.Y. 15. Franklin, Tenn.

16. Fort Collins, Colo.

17. Pleasonton, Calif.

18. Columbia, Md.

19. Arlington, Va. 20. Pittsburgh, Pa. 21. Cary, N.C. 22. Manhattan, Kan. 23. Portland, Ore. 24. Frederick, Md. 25. Ames, Iowa

There is some irony to this list. CLARCOR started in Rockford and was a staple in the Rockford community for decades before moving its headquarters to No. 15, Franklin, Tenn. Woodward Inc., a significant Transform Rockford supporter, started in Rockford and was based for decades in Loves Park before moving its headquarters to No. 16, Fort Collins, Colo.

— By Alex Gary

organization called Sustain Dane, which has several paid staffers creating sustainable solutions for school districts, businesses and governments.

Roos and other members of the unofficial group plan on visiting each of the cities and then recruiting members of the various organizations to Rockford to meet with government officials.

Interestingly, with all of the volunteers taking part in Transform Rockford and with all of the various plans being developed, there is no one spoke working on sustainability.

Nathan Bruck, a Loves Park planning officer, is on the Transform Rockford planning spoke. “Sustainability was discussed early, but briefly, as we formulated our impact statement, strategies and projects

list,” Bruck said in an email. “Sustainability should be an over-arching goal for Transform Rockford and the Rockford region and not spoke-specific.”

The long-stated goal of Transform Rockford is to make it one of the top 25 communities to live in the United States by 2025. Roos believes sustainability will have to be at the heart of the effort. “I’ve asked several people this, do we really believe that to become a top 25 community we won’t have to fully embrace sustainability in an active way,” Roos said. “That’s hard for me to imagine.”

Alex Gary is communications manager of Rockford’s Thinker Ventures.

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

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

Plans are to open the three-wing, six-story hospital, and five-story Women’s and Children’s Hospital and Medical Center in late 2018.

Mercyhealth sets high beam on new medical center Nothing Bundt Cakes held a ribbon cutting on April 7 at 881 S. Perryville Road, Suite 200, Rockford.

[design] [build] by architects held a ribbon cutting on April 10 at 309 S. Main St., Ste. 2, Rockford.

Mercyhealth employees, physicians, administrators and community leaders signed and placed the highest steel beam on the structure that will become the Women’s and Children’s Hospital and Medical Center, located off I-90 and Riverside Boulevard in Rockford.

“We’ve completed the structural steel frame for the new hospital and multispecialty clinic in less than a year and are now moving to enclose the buildings,” said Greg Werner, senior vice president and Chicago office leader of Mortenson Construction, at the Topping Out Ceremony on April 19.

Mercyhealth plans to open the $505 million, 451,000-sq.-ft. hospital and fivestory, 81,500-sq.-ft. medical center in late 2018. The center will offer 192 inpatient beds; a state-designated regional perinatal center; a highest level, level III, neonatal intensive care unit; a pediatric unit (with

roof garden); a pediatric intensive care unit; a high-risk maternity care; pediatric emergency services, and level I (highest level) trauma center.

It also will house adult sub-specialty hospital with plastic and reconstructive surgery, brain and spine, endocrinology, orthopedics, pulmonology and heart services; operating suites and surgical services; a comprehensive diagnostic center with lab and imaging, and multidisciplinary physician care clinics, serving adult and pediatric patients.

The project will generate more than 400 new, permanent health care jobs, more than 1,100 construction jobs and 263 acres of land for development of hotels, restaurants, convenience stores and other retail outlets.

For updates on progress, visit MercyHealthSystem.org/live-stream.

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

July 12, with Dr. Tammy Homman and Dr. Joseph Kimbell. Meet at 696 N. Colfax St.

MAY, 2017

Friday, May 5

Monday, May 1

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden hosts its Plant Sale Kickoff, 5 to 8 p.m., 2715 S. Main St., Rockford. Shop early for the best selection of plants.

Drop off 10 plants between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the week before the sale and receive free admission.

SwedishAmerican and UW Health present a free Bariatric Surgery Community Talk with Dr. Michael Garren, surgical weight management program, 6 to 7:30 p.m., at the SwedishAmerican Regional Cancer Center, 3535 N. Bell School Road, Rockford.

Light refreshments. RSVP by April 28 at www.uwhealth.org/bariatricsurgery. For questions call 608-262-0950.

Wednesday, May 3

Rock Valley College hosts a free Hour of Code workshop: Coding with Minecraft, 5 p.m., at 99 E. State St., second floor of the Rockford Register Star news tower. Visit hourofcodeworkshops.eventbrite.com.

SwedishAmerican Regional Cancer Center hosts an eight-week Qigong class for cancer patients and survivors, May 3 to June 21, 5:30 p.m., at the Regional Cancer Center, 3535 Bell School Road, Rockford.

SwedishAmerican Byron Clinic and the Byron Park District introduce Walk with a Doc, Wednesday mornings today through May 24 and June 7 to

Saturday, May 6 Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden hosts its Spring Plant Sale, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. For questions call 815-965-8146. Visit klehm.org.

Sunday, May 7 Barbara Olson Center of Hope presents its Rock for the Center Family Festival, noon to 6 p.m., at Tebala Event Center, 7910 Newburg Road, Rockford. Musical entertainment with Minimal, The Missing Links and Mr. Big Stuff. Children’s talent show with cash prizes, games, chance auctions, food, craft vendors and photos with princesses and superheroes. Tom Wartowski, will sign his book, “You are like an Acorn.”

Tickets at 815-964-9275, ext. 265, or www.b-olsoncenterofhope.org.

Tuesday, May 9

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce and NIU-Rockford host a Lender Forum, 9 a.m. to noon, at 8500 E. State St. Presenting organizations include the U.S. Small Business Administration, SBA 504 corporations, Illinois Small Business Development Centers and SBA microlenders. For questions contact 815-987-8100 or eforsman@rockfordchamber.com.

Rockford Park District’s Atwood Center welcomes help on a Natural Areas Workday in Seth B. Atwood Park. Equipment and snacks provided.

Groups of five or more are asked to call 815-966-8747 in advance. Visit www. rockfordparkdistrict.org/atwood.

Wednesday, May 10

SwedishAmerican North Main Clinic and InnovaMed Aesthetics host a free Open House, 4 to 7 p.m., at 2601 N. Main St., Rockford. Learn about services, products and monthly specials and enter drawings for prizes.

Call 815-986-1020 for questions.

Thursday, May 11

WOTM presents Minute Mentoring!

5:30 to 8 p.m., NIU Rockford campus, 8500 E. State St. Features fast-paced mentoring sessions, akin to speed dating, with accomplished leaders in diverse industries. Heavy hors d’oeuvres. Register at www.wotmrockford.com/events.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society presents a free Rockford Town Forum: Get to Know LLS, 4 to 5:30 p.m., networking and complimentary drinks at Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St. The forum runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., with discussion of LLS services and a brief update on blood cancers. Heavy appetizers and drinks.

Pre-registration required for networking with Annie Hart, annie.hart@lls.org or 312-568-7729. For forum at http://bit. ly/RockfordTownForum or Kristi Anys at 312-568-7728.

Saturday, May 13

Rockford Park District presents Mom ’N‘ Me Tee, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., or 1 to 2:30 p.m., at Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. 2nd St. Take a trip through the Simply Spring Butterfly Exhibit. Register by May 10 at www. nicholasconservatory.com/activities.

The Literacy Council and Runner’s Image hosts the 14th annual Rockford Literacy Races fundraiser, 8 a.m. to noon, beginning at Cherry Valley Fire Station, 4919 Blackhawk Road, Rockford. Runners and walkers can choose to participate in a half marathon or 10k race. Visit theliteracycouncil.org.

Rockford Bank & Trust and Paper Recovery Service Corporation host a free Shred Day, 9 a.m. to noon, at 4571 Guilford Road. Open to the public.

Participants can bring up to 100 pounds of personal paper to be shredded. For more information, visit rkfdbank.com

Thursday, May 18

Weldstar hosts a Demo Day & Open House, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with facility tours at 9710 Forest Hills Road, Machesney Park. Opportunities to meet industry experts, product demonstrations, raffles, door prizes and complimentary lunch. For questions contact 815-904-6950 or jfusek@ weldstar.com. Visit weldstar.com.

Friday, May 19

American Advertising Federation of Northern Illinois hosts a Lunch ‘n Learn, 11:45 a.m., at Katie’s Cup, 502 7th St., Rockford, featuring Lars Lawson, Timer Design Co., who will present “Creativity Deep Dive.” Visit www.niadfed.org.

Saturday, May 20 The 14th annual Rockford Football Training Camp takes place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Mercyhealth Sportscore Two Indoor Sports Center, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park.

Register at www.rockfordparkdistrict. org/youthsports.

Rockford Park District’s Atwood Center invites all ages to experience In the Outdoors: Wilderness 101, 1 to 3 p.m., at 334-acre Seth B. Atwood Park, 2685 New Milford School Road. For groups of five or more, call 815-9668747. Visit www.rockfordparkdistrict. org/atwood.

University of Illinois Extension hosts Forestry Management - Trees, Wildlife, and Invasive Species with forestry specialist Chris Evans, 9 a.m. to noon, at Atwood Center, 2685 New Milford School Road, Rockford.

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

Rocktown Adventures hosts the second-annual Midwest Kayak Fishing Symposium on May 20 and 21 at Rock Cut State Park, Loves Park.

First day includes test paddles on Olson Lake, seminars on kayak fishing topics, camping and fishing at Pierce Lake, community BBQ and evening kayaking. Second day includes kayaking and fishing. Visit rocktownadventures.com or call 815-636-9066.

Tuesday, May 30

Rockford Regional Health Council presents Navigating a New Landscape: The Impact of Medical Marijuana, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road.

Presentation, panel discussion and Q&A. Can earn CEUs. Visit www. rockfordhealth.org.

JUNE, 2017

Saturday, June 3

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden presents Garden Fair Weekend, Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. More 90 vendors, food court and entertainment. For questions call 815-965-8146. Visit klehm.org.

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May 2017

the News IN Members THEin NEWS

1. Linda Zuba

2. Ian K. Linnabary

3. Karrie Passmore

4. Steve Rapp

5. Aftab Merchant

6. Dr. Joycelyn Speight

7. J. Hanley

8. Kathy Branning

9. Amy Mullen

10. Larry Morrissey

11. Dr. Margaret Greco

12. Stacy Bradley

13. Peter Roger Schmeling

14. Tim Dimke

15. Heather Vincent

16. Damon Heim

17. Brad Duffy

18. Jennifer Girard

19. George and Marilyn Johnson

20. Jacob T. Fitzgerald

21. Collin Marshall

22. Vaughn Lewis

23. Dr. Michael J. Chmell

24. Matt Aukes

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

OSF Healing Pathways Cancer Resource Center named Amy Mullen (9) as program coordinator.

BOARD APPOINTMENTS

Marathon Health appointed former Rockford Mayor Larry Morrissey (10) as its vice president for government relations.

Linda Zuba (1) joined the Remedies Renewing Lives board.

Ian K. Linnabary (2), attorney, Reno & Zahm LLP, was appointed

by Gov. Bruce Rauner to a four-year term on the Illinois State Board of Elections beginning July 1, subject to confirmation by the Illinois State Senate.

NEW HIRES, PROMOTIONS, RETIREMENTS Karrie Passmore (3), R.N., and private-practice International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, has partnered with Luna Studio to offer family-friendly classes and services for pregnancy and postpartum.

Thayer Lighting Inc., hired Steve Rapp (4) as energy advisor.

Digital Hive Mind hired Elizabeth Schaer to its creative team.

Aftab Merchant (5), MBBS, FCPS, joined the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford as the course director for anatomy & embryology.

Joycelyn Speight, M.D., Ph.D. (6), DABR, radiation oncologist, joined SwedishAmerican, a division of UW Health.

Rock River Water Reclamation hired attorney J. Hanley (7) as general counsel.

Kathy Branning (8) joined Remedies Renewing Lives as vice president of marketing/fund development.

Dr. Margaret Greco (11), pediatric cardiologist, UW Health, will see patients at SwedishAmerican, a division of UW Health, in the Renaissance Pavilion.

Therese Rowinski rejoined the River District Association as assistant to the executive director.

Stacy Bradley (12) was promoted to HR manager at Fehr Graham.

Schmeling Construction Co., hired Peter Roger Schmeling (13) as an estimator/project manager. He also will oversee corporate-wide safety.

The Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners began the process of selecting a new executive director to replace Tim Dimke (14), who expects to retire this summer. Peter Murphy, chief executive, Illinois Association of Park Districts, is requested to lead the selection process.

EMPLOYEE/COMMUNITY RECOGNITIONS, AWARDS Heather Vincent (15), mortgage loan officer, Illinois Bank & Trust, received the Affiliate Award for Outstanding Dedication and Service in Assisting the Real Estate Profession and Damon Heim (16), board member, for topping $9 million in real estate sales at the Realtor Association of Northwestern Illinois awards ceremony in Woodbine.

Dr. Philip Schalow, clinic director, Upper Cervical Care Center Rockford, completed an advanced instrument adjusting workshop in orthospinology procedures.

Brad Duffy (17), president, security officer division, Per Mar Security Services, was the recipient of the 2017 Wayne J. Wunder Memorial Award from the National Council of Investigation & Security Services.

Jennifer Girard (18), R.N., professional development coordinator, OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, received the Distinguished Advocate for Nursing Award presented by the Stateline Nursing Network Committee.

George and Marilyn Johnson (19) received the George and Barbara Fell Award at the Natural Land Institute’s annual dinner in March.

Todd Reicher, Entré Computer Solutions, passed his Apple Certified Associate exam in Mac Integration with Windows networks, giving him the title of Apple Certified Associate (ACA).

Jacob T. Fitzgerald (20), CFP®, financial advisor, Ameriprise Financial in Rockford, received the Accredited Portfolio Management AdvisorSM (APMA®) designation from the College of Financial Planning.

Meridian named Collin Marshall (21) as employee of the month.

Vaughn Lewis (22), engineer, Fehr Graham, received his Professional Engineer (PE) licensure for the state of Iowa. He also is licensed for Illinois and Wisconsin.

Paul Laprade, professor of music, was named the 29th recipient of the

Rock Valley College Faculty of the Year award.

Michael J. Chmell, M.D. (23), OrthoIllinois, received a 5-Star Rating for total knee replacement surgery from Consumers’ Checkbook/Center for the Study of Services; placing him in the best one-fifth of all surgeons studied.

OF GENERAL INTEREST Matt Aukes (24), owner of Carz R’ Us, attended the Automotive Training Institute Super Conference in Tucson, Ariz.

Bonnie Arrington, Karla Rodgers, Todd Martinovich and Shirley Geiser, Spectrum Insurance Agency, attended “Protecting Business through Industry Endorsements.” Geiser received a sales award at the Pekin Insurance 2016 Awards Banquets and Appreciation Banquet. Bruce Graham, Brandon Latino and Karla Rodgers attended an ethics class

by ServiceMaster.

Philip Eaton, president/CEO, Rosecrance Health Network, will speak on “Charting our Field’s Trajectory: The NAATP Provider CEO Perspective” as well as “All Addicts Matter: Addressing the Public System/Private System Treatment Divide” at the 2017 National Addiction Leadership Conference, May 21 to 23 in Austin, Texas. Dr. Raymond Garcia, medical director of the Harrison campus, presents “The Science of Addiction” at the OSF May Day Medical Conference on May 5 in Rockford.

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theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Business Briefs BUSINESS BRIEFS Rockford Chamber members appear bolded. Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members.

OC Creative received three AVA Digital Awards by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals for creative client work in the video categories of motion graphics product, nonprofit and product marketing. It received two AVA Awards last year. Visit www.occreates.com/17ava.

Rock River Valley Tooling and Machining Association hired V2 Marketing Communications to redesign its website and produce trade show displays. Family Building Services, Portland, Ore., hired V2 to redesign its website.

and coronary artery bypass graft surgeries. Employers who are members of The Alliance can enroll in QualityPath, and employees in the health plans can use The Alliance network.

SwedishAmerican Foundation awarded the Rockford Rescue Mission with a $10,000 grant to support its new Works! Center, an education and job skills training program for mission guests and residents and the general public.

Orthopedic and Sports Therapy Institute’s occupational medicine division began providing services for Piston Group, a new assembly supplier to the Belvidere Chrysler plant. Services will include WorkSTEPS Post-Offer Testing, which matches employees’ TLC Illinois, LLC and the Village of physical capabilities to the physical Machesney Park announced plans to demands of a specific job. OSTI also develop the $15-million, three-story, began implementing work injury 96-apartment Towncenter Living prevention services for Bag Makers in Community, an assisted living facility on Union, Ill., including ergonomic analysis, six acres adjacent to Machesney Town job description creation, on-site job Center, near to the 173 Machesney Park coaching and wellness programs.

Gateway. Construction begins in summer 2017 with completion planned Hayes Marketing Services, Inc., was awarded a five-year contract by the for fall 2018.

Rockford Park District to plan and KMK Media Group completed a implement media buying programs — multi-month public relations service a relationship dating back to 2008. contract for SwedishAmerican, a Applications are available until seats are division of UW Health. Pearson Plumbing & Heating Co., hired KMK as filled for two Rockford Area Arts Council summer programs. RAAC Arts advertising agency of record for the Camp for ages 5 to 13 will be held at seventh consecutive year. KMK Ellis School. ArtsPlace arts developed a new logo for Aurora apprenticeship program will help ages Educational Technology. It launched a 14 to 18 improve their artistic skills with website for Northern Illinois Service teams in dance, theater, video Company at www.northernillinois production and visual arts. Visit www. service.com. KMK designed a new artsforeveryone.com or 815-963-6765. brand identity for Patriot’s Gateway Center.

Digital Hive Mind launched a new Rockford Lutheran School hired V2 Marketing to create a logo, permanent signage and marketing materials for its 1 + 3 = college degree program.

Students can earn enough credits to complete up to one year of college course work while still attending high school. Rockford Lutheran is the only high school in the area to have individual transfer agreements with more than 25 colleges and universities.

Illinois Bank & Trust is presenting sponsor of Club Blue Rockford, a grant program that benefits nonprofits that support the wellbeing of area children.

SwedishAmerican, A division of UW Health, announced a new, $4.1 million medical office building on Rockford’s west side at 815 Marchesano Dr., to improve healthcare access for southwest Rockford area residents. It will feature primary care, obstetrics, lab and imaging services.

YMCA of Rock River Valley activated nearly 200 volunteers for its annual campaign, For a Better Us, with a goal to raise $1.3 million in 2017.

The Alliance® received a matching grant of up to $50,000 to expand its QualityPath® program, which will create a pathway to high-value colonoscopies starting in June 2018. Launched in 2015, the QualityPath program guides patients to high-quality providers for CTs and MRI scans and knee replacements, total hip replacements

content-managed website with a modern look for J.L. Clark at www. jlclark.com, which pays homage to its 113-year-old history.

The Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners approved at its March 28 meeting the renaming of Loves Park Playground to Darryl F. Lindberg Park in recognition of the mayor’s community contributions.

Chartwell Agency was hired by Northern Illinois Vein Clinic in Rockford and Gilvydis Vein Clinic in Sycamore as agency of record, and Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Rockford to assist with marketing and communications initiatives.

Edward Jones ranked number four in “Best Workplaces in Financial Services and Insurance” by Fortune magazine and consulting firm Great Place to Work® and the top-ranked, full-service financial firm of the 40 companies on the list.

Barbara Olson Center of Hope received 19 Garmins for its transport vehicle drivers, donated as a result of an email request to supporters in the community.

WNIJ 89.5 FM launched a project to raise $125,000 to preserve public radio without interrupting programs. It partnered with the National Forest Foundation and Tyler’s Landscaping to

(continued on page 23)

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May 2017

Business Briefs BUSINESS BRIEFS Continued from page 22 plant a tree to mark every donation to the station during the campaign, with a goal to plant 1,000 trees.

4357 or visit the office at 1040 N. Second St., Rockford.

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau was honored during the Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Entré Computer Solutions increased Tourism with “Best Tourism Marketing its presence in the business IP phone Campaign” featuring Cheap Trick’s market with the transfer of customers induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of and services of former reseller, DDV Fame and “Best Branding Initiative” Enterprises, a regional Avaya partner featuring the Bring Your Game 2 that closed its doors.

Rockford (#BYG2RKFD) sports tourism Tickets are on sale for comedian George brand and RACVB sports tourism Lopez, who will perform at the ambassador Fred VanVleet of the Coronado Performing Arts Center on Toronto Raptors.

July 21 at Ticketmaster.com, the BMO Harris and Coronado PAC box offices or SwedishAmerican Safe Kids Winnebago County Coalition and 815-968-5222.

SwedishAmerican Foundation received The 2017 Rockford New Play Festival, a a $10,000 State Farm grant to provide collaboration between the Rockford more than 200 age- and sizeArea Arts Council and the West Side appropriate car seats to low and Show Room, seeks new 10-minute plays by playwrights from Rockford and moderate income families in nine around the world. Plays should respond counties in northern Illinois. to the recent Women’s March on Washington and answer the question “Where Are You Going?” Six scripts will be chosen and presented in an evening of staged readings on Aug. 24 and broadcast live on Facebook.

Goldie B. Floberg Center received a grant of $12,000 from the Blazer Foundation to fund annual participation for children and adults with developmental disabilities in camp and therapeutic riding active therapies.

Blackhawk Bank acquired property at 2525 Milton Ave., Janesville, with plans to open a full-service office and local banking center by the third or fourth quarter of this year with an ATM, drive through, mortgage services, commercial cash management services and access to investment advisors.

Comprehensive Community Solutions, Inc., opened its Neighborhood Tool Bank at 907 S. Main St., through Oct. 1. A variety of gardening and lawn maintenance tools and supplies will be on loan for a week at a time. Call 815-963-6236 to schedule if possible.

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau welcomed the fifth-annual Rockford Spring Swing pickleball tournament, April 7 to 9, at Forest City Tennis Center. The tournament drew 230 participants, ages 15 to 70, and an expected $10,800 in economic impact for local area businesses.

SwedishAmerican Medical Center/ Belvidere celebrated eight years of service to the Belvidere community with emergency care to more than 121,000 people and more than 230,000 outpatient appointments.

Kiwanis Club of Rockford distributed $15,000 in education grants to five high school seniors at its club meeting at noon on April 25.

Natural Land Institute and Severson Dells Nature Center will host its 2017 Wildflower Walkabout series with 10 weekly guided hikes, alternating at 6 p.m., on Wednesdays and Tuesdays through June 27. No fee but membership in either or both organizations is encouraged. Visit www. naturalland.org.

Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois is offering free enrollment testing to students interested in obtaining their GEDs every Friday through its GoodGRADS program from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., at 850 N. Church St., Rockford. No appointment necessary.

Contact 815-965-3795 or programs@ goodwillni.org.

Per Mar Security Services launched its new website at permarsecurity.com with a more visual look and easy navigation on any device.

OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center received a “B” ranking among the safest hospitals in the United States from national patient safety watchdog The Leapfrog Group’s new Hospital Safety Grades.

Rosecrance was recognized for the fifth year as one of the Healthiest Companies in America by Interactive Health. In 2016, it saw a 96 percent participation rate for employees and spouses, and 94 percent of the wellness participants deemed eligible for reduced health insurance premiums.

The Workforce Connection Board awarded a contract to a newly formed consortium between Rock Valley College, Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois and the Illinois Department of Employment Security to operate workforce centers starting in July that offer career services in Boone, Stephenson and Winnebago counties.

University of Illinois Extension master RVC will serve as the lead agency, and gardeners will have their help desk open Goodwill and IDES will identify local on Mondays and Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to talent and ensure that the training they noon, through September. Call 815-986- receive aligns with employers’ needs.

Rockford Park District and Community Foundation of Northern Illinois announced that internationally known artist Bruce Munro will run his garden-wide art sculpture exhibition, Bruce Munro: LIGHT, June 3 to Nov. 5 at Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens. This is Munro’s eighth large-scale garden exhibition in the United States.

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New Chamber Members MAY, 2017 THE ALS ASSOCIATION GREATER CHICAGO CHAPTER Leading the fight to treat and cure ALS 220 W. Huron St., Ste. 4003 Chicago, IL 60654 Jessica Dickman 312-932-0000 www.alsa.org

1-800-GOT-JUNK? World’s Largest Junk Removal Service Company 31632 N. Ellis Dr. Volo, IL 60073 Matt Nordigian 312-287-0631

GREATER ROCKFORD ITALIAN AMERICAN ASSOCIATION/FESTA ITALIANA Preserving our Past ... Planning our Future P.O. Box 1915, 61110 Frank Perrecone 815-962-2700 www.griaa.com

JOSEF’S STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR Fine Dining Restaurant 6860 Spring Creek Road, 61114 Kathy Hansen 815-282-3400 www.josefs.us

SUPERIOR REALTORS & RENTAL PROPERTIES, INC. Real Estate Sales & Property Management P.O. Box 217 Roscoe, IL 61073 Thomas Howard 815-742-1829 www.rentwithsuperior.com

2HB SOLUTIONS 2HB Solutions Group is a local full-service human resources and benefits outsourcing company.

1515 S. Meridian Road, 61102 Laurie S. Miller, MBA 815-871-7042 www.2hbsolutions.com

VIKING CHEMICAL COMPANY Chemical Distributor P.O. Box 1595, 61110 Bryan Selander 815-397-0500 www.vikingchemical.com

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

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

13 WREX Above and Beyond Associates Akerman Shoes Al Grace Appliance & TV Allstate - J Ellis Agency Alpine Bank American Solutions for Business (Formerly Skyward Promotions) Ameriprise Financial Armor Technologies Associated Bank Astro-Physics, Inc. AT&T Barbara Olson Center of Hope Block Advisors Brightbill/Ericson Eye Associates Camp Seguin Capri Restaurant, Inc. Chartwell Agency City First Church Comcast Business ComEd, An Exelon Company Countryman Inc. Crash 1 Collision Center Days Inn Rockford Delta Dental of Illinois Dickerson & Nieman Realtors Fisher’s Ethan Allen FurstSearch LLC Gambino Realtors Home Builders, Inc. General Mitchell International Airport Glenwood Center Ltd. Greater Rockford Airport Authority d/b/a Chicago Rockford International Airport Ground Floor Skateboards Growth Dimensions Guler Appliance Company Guyer & Enichen Attorneys at Law Hampton Inn Rockford Hayes Beer of Rockford Highcrest Centre Hoffman House HolmstromKennedyPC I. Spinello Locksmiths, Division of Nate, Inc. Insurance Pro Agencies Russell Kilker JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Klaas Financial Asset Advisors, LLC Lamar Outdoor Advertising of Rockford LaMonica Beverages, Inc. LaQuinta Inn & Suites Rockford Lucette Salon Macktown, A Living History Education Center March of Dimes Marion S. Momaly, CPA, PC Mark Pack Inc. MegaFab Meijer Rockford Mercyhealth Midwest Scale Company, Inc. Mulford Park Apartments New Leaf Remodeling New York Life - Chad DeMarre Nicor Gas Northern Illinois Building Contractors Association

Northwest Community Center Northwestern Illinois Building & Construction Trades Council OrthoIllinois OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center Paper Recovery Services Corp.

Pepsi-Cola of Rockford Phantom Regiment Preservation Pointe Condo Association Quimby & Co., P.C. Residence Inn by Marriott/Rockford Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated Rock Town Consulting Rock Valley Compounding Pharmacy Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Rockford Area Crime Stoppers, Inc. Rockford Area Realtors Rockford Foundries Rockford Gastroenterology Associates, Ltd. Rockford Mass Transit District Rockford Mass Transit District/ Paratransit Rockford Mercantile Agency, Inc. Rockford Park District Rockford Public Library Rockford Speedway/ Forest Hills Lodge Rockford Supportive Living Rockford Urological Associates, Ltd. Rosecrance Health Network RSM US LLP Schmeling Construction Co. Sems and Specials Inc. Specialty Screw Corporation Spring Ridge Senior Housing Stanley Steemer of Rockford Staybridge Suites Stenstrom Companies Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated, Member SIPC & NYSE SundogIT SwedishAmerican, A Division of UW Health SWITS, Ltd. T K Group, Inc. Talecris Plasma Resources The Oliver Group Inc. TLC...the Learning Center, Inc. UNION Savings BANK V2 Marketing Communications Valley Expo and Displays Van Sickle & McLaughlin, CPAs Village of Machesney Park Voss Metals Company, Inc. Willett Hofmann & Associates, Inc. Williams-Manny Insurance Group WilliamsMcCarthy LLP Wilson Electric Co. Windstar Lines, Inc. Winnebago County Medical Society Wipfli LLP Wired Café’ Women of Today’s Manufacturing (WOTM) Wood CPA’s Ltd WQRF-TV/WTVO-TV Zuba and Associates, P.C.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

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May 2017

Regional, National Indicators Chamber Advantages THE ECONOMY CHAMBER 101

Why Join the Chamber?

U.S. Indicators March 2017



Consumer Price Index Unemployment Rate

IT’S A GREAT BUSINESS STRATEGY!

0.3 percent 4.5 percent

      

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

THIS MONTH WE HIGHLIGHT THREE OF THEM

98,000 $0.05 0.1 percent 0.5 percent (fourth quarter, 2016) 1.3 percent (fourth quarter, 2016) 0.2 percent 0.2 percent

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Unemployment Rates

ACCESS

Get connected to elected officials and community leaders “As a non-profit business that straddles healthcare and pharmaceutical manufacturing, the chamber gives us the access to information, community leaders/action opportunities and programs that we might otherwise miss out on because we do not fit easily into a single business/manufacturing category.”

LINDA GERBER, ROCK RIVER VALLEY BLOOD CENTER

Region / State / Nation Nov 2016

Dec 2016

Jan 2017

Feb 2017

Rockford

5.8

6.5

11.1*

9.0

Chicago

5.3

5.4

6.0

5.3

Illinois

5.6

5.7

5.7

5.4

United States

4.6

4.7

4.8

4.7

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

*Einar Forsman, Rockford Chamber, addressed in the March 16 Chicago Tribune the January spike in unemployment in Rockford, stating that it was temporary, and due in part to the workers laid off in connection with the $350 million retooling of the Fiat-Chrysler assembly plant in Belvidere. The workers are expected to be re-hired as the new Jeep lines begin production and new suppliers move in.

“The end game is that the investment will lead to more jobs in that industry,” Forsman said.

The Greening of Illinois WalletHub’s analysts compared each of the 50 states in terms of 20 key metrics to illustrate each state’s environmental quality and the ecofriendliness of its policies.

‘Green-ness’ of Illinois (1 - Most / 25 - Avg.) 48th 18th 6th 40th 43rd 36th 25th 4th

CREDIBILITY Consumers are 80% more likely to patronize a business they believe is a chamber member (The Shapiro Group Study)

“The Chamber is the first stop for those visiting the area. With their referrals and recommendations, we can gain more attraction and show new people what Rockford has to offer.”

NICOLE BLAUGH, PRAIRIE STREET BREWING CO.

ADVOCACY

Present a unified political voice to advance business priorities to local, state and national legislators “The networking and advocacy opportunities are what I value most.

I appreciate the quality of speakers the Chamber provides.”

JACI KATOR, AT&T

Air Quality Soil Quality Water Quality Percentage of Recycled Municipal Solid Waste LEED-Certified Buildings per Capita Percentage of Energy Consumption from Renewable Sources Energy Consumption per Capita Gasoline Consumption (in Gallons) per Capita Source: wallethub.com

Heating and Cooling the Home 2.4 million Estimated number of occupied housing units across the country primarily heated by wood in 2015: 2.0 percent of all homes.

106,737 Estimated number of occupied housing units across the country using solar energy in 2015 as their primary source of heat: 0.1 percent of all homes 57.0 million Estimated number of occupied housing units across the country primarily heated by utility gas in 2015: 48.2 percent of all homes.

93% Estimated percentage of newly built single-family homes across the country with air conditioning in 2015.

ROCKFORDCHAMBER.COM | (815) 987-8100 ACCESS • ADVOCACY • CREDIBILITY EDUCATION • GROWTH • LEADERSHIP VALUE • VISIBILITY

26

May 2017

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

EVENTS

Upcoming Chamber Events MAY, 2017 Tuesday, May 2

Business Women’s Council, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Rockford Country Club, 2500 Oxford St., Rockford.

Gary Anderson and Ashley Sarver, Gary W. Anderson Architects, talk about New Developments in the City and how our commercial and residential property affects the city and how the city affects our property. Sponsored by First Northern Credit Union.

Thursday, May 4 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Radisson Conference Center, 200 S. Bell School Rd., Rockford

STATE-OF-THE-COUNTY Luncheon Winnebago County Board Chairman Frank Haney will talk about his 19-point ACT plan to make the county the most Accountable, Collaborative, and Transparent (ACT) unit of government in Illinois.

Sponsored by BMO Harris Bank (presenting, AT&T (silver) and ALPHA Controls & Services LLC (bronze).

Wednesday, May 10

Breakfast Buzz, 7:30 to 9 a.m., at Rockford University, 5050 E. State St., PURI Business School building, room 124. Mike Mastroianni, president, MDM Consulting, presents I Don’t Want to Change. ... But I Have To. How to Embrace a ‘Glass Half Full’ Mentality.

Sponsored by RSM US LLP.

Friday, May 12

Government Affairs Council, 7:30 to 8:45 a.m. Executive Director, Richard McVinnie from Rockford Mass Transit District will present “The Future of Public Transportation,” Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St., Rockford.

Sponsored by AT&T.

Tuesday, May 16

Chamber 101 with Speed Networking, 7:30 to 9 a.m., Century Plaza Business Center, 7210 E. State St., Ste. 102, Rockford. Sponsored

by MembersAlliance Credit Union.

Thursday, May 18 11:30 am - 1:30 pm Prairie Street Brewing Co. 200 Prairie St., Ste.203, Rockford

Celebration of Leadership Luncheon Join in the graduation of the 2016-2017 Leadership Rockford class. Featured speaker is John Groh, president/CEO of the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Sponsored by PNC Bank (presenting) and ALPHA Controls & Services LLC, OSF Healthcare, RSM US LLP and Savant Capital Management (graduation).

Thursday, May 18

Ribbon Cutting, Market Dimensions, Inc., 4 p.m., 4320 Morsay Dr., Rockford.

Ribbon Cutting, Crusader Community Health on Alpine, 5 to 7 p.m., at 1215 N. Alpine Road, Rockford.

Monday, May 22 11 am Rockford Country Club 2500 Oxford St., Rockford

ROCKFORD CHAMBER

Golf Classic

Enjoy an afternoon of healthy recreation, casual networking and cut-throat competition.

Sponsored by SwedishAmerican, A Division of UW Health (presenting); Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP (gold); Blackhawk Bank (gift); OSF Healthcare (photo) and The Alliance (greens).

May 2017 Member Anniversaries Thank you to the members celebrating their anniversaries with the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

For more information, to register for an event, and to view an updated Chamber Event Calendar, visit rockfordchamber.com.

40-YEAR MEMBER

15-YEAR MEMBERS

Berg Industries, Inc.

McMAHON Mosaic in Rockford The Pregnancy Care Center

30-YEAR MEMBERS Electrical Workers Union/Local 364 IBEW Gauerke Electric Company National Business & Industrial Centre, Inc. Rockford Process Control, Inc. Rockford Separators, Inc.

25-YEAR MEMBERS Summit CPA Group, P.C. Voss Metals Company, Inc.

10-YEAR MEMBERS AFLAC – Andy Krauss Rockford Supportive Living

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

EVENTS

Upcoming Chamber Events Wednesday, May 24

Leader’s Toolbox Summer Workshop Series 8:30-10:00am Klehm Arboretum, 2715 S Main St., Rockford. First in series of workshops, “We Gotta Talk: Difficult Conversations.” For more info or to register, visit rockfordchamber.com.

Thursday, May 25

Good Morning Rockford! 7:30 to 9 a.m., Wesley Willows, 4141 N. Rockton Ave., Rockford. Meet in the Town Center building on the west side of campus.

Wednesday, May 31

IGNITE Lunch with a Leader, noon to 1 p.m., Giovanni’s, Inc., 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford.

Meet Patti DeWane, vice president, finance & treasurer, SwedishAmerican, a Division of UW Health.

JUNE, 2017 Thursday, June 1

Ribbon Cutting, Northwestern Mutual, 11 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., 1252 Bell Valley Rd. #100, Rockford.

Tuesday, June 6

Business Women’s Council, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Rockford Country Club, 2500 Oxford St. Bo Boger, SBDC director, Illinois SBDC at Rockford Chamber of Commerce, will give networking tips and talk about the impact of the SBDC. Sponsored by First Northern Credit Union.

Tuesday, June 6

Ribbon Cutting, Rockford Dermatology, 4 p.m., 4338 Morsay Dr., Rockford.

Wednesday, June 7

Business After Hours with the Phantom Regiment, 5 to 7 p.m., at Rockford University, 5050 E. State St.

Thursday, June 8

Ribbon Cutting, Safelite Auto Glass, 10 - 11 a.m., 1803 E Riverside Blvd., Rockford.

Friday, June 9

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

by AT&T.

Wednesday, June 14

Breakfast Buzz, 7:30 to 9 a.m., at Rockford University, 5050 E. State St., PURI Business School building, room 124. John E. Busch, protective security advisor-Chicago District, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, will present Tools and Resources to Help Businesses Plan, Prepare and Protect from an Attack.

Sponsored by RSM US LLP. Ribbon Cutting, Wintrust Bank, 10 a.m., 6885 Vistagreen Way, Rockford (corner of Perryville and Springcreek Road).

Open House and Ribbon Cutting, 2HB Solutions, 3 to 6 p.m., 1515 S. Meridian Road, Rockford.

Ribbon cutting at 3:30 p.m.

Wednesday, June 21

Leader’s Toolbox Summer Workshop Series 8:30-10:00am Klehm Arboretum, 2715 S Main St., Rockford. First in series of workshops, “EFN What? Discover Your Leadership Style.” For more info or to register, visit rockfordchamber.com.

Thursday, June 22 10 am - 1:30 pm Giovanni’s, Inc. 610 N. Bell School Rd., Rockford

Women in Business EXPO AND LUNCHEON Features a panel of women who lead some of the more successful and influential not-for-profit organizations in the region.

Announcement of the Woman Business Leader of Tomorrow, Woman Manager of the Year, Woman Business Owner of the Year and the Athena Powerlink Award.

Sponsored by Mercyhealth (presenting), Northern Illinois Vein Clinic and OSF Healthcare (gold), Northwest Bank of Rockford (awards) and PNC Bank (ATHENAPowerLink).

JUNE VOICE SPECIAL SECTIONS THE BUSINESS ADVICE ISSUE:

Mid-Year Economic Update Manage Your Personal & Business Wealth For information on advertising, call 815

27

May 2017

987-8100

Advertisers Index ADVERTISERS

Alpine Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Northern Public Radio . . . . . . . . 20

Blackhawk Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Northwest Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

BMO Harris Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Brian Thomas Photography . . . . 10 Century Plaza Business Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Comcast Business . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Cord Construction Co. . . . . . . . . . 4 Honquest Family Funeral Homes with Crematory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Illinois Bank & Trust. . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Illinois Small Business Development Center. . . . . . . . . . 17 Klaas Financial Asset Advisors, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

OSF HealthCare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Quartz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Rockford Bank & Trust Co.. . . . . . 8 Rockford Chamber of

Commerce. . . . . . . . . 19, 22-25, 28 RSM US LLP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Stillman Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Thayer Lighting, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . 9 Winnebago County

Health Department . . . . . . . . . . . 14

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 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 Doug Mark, Membership Development Executive............................... 815-316-4336 Stephanie Mathews, Administrative & Finance Assistant .................... 815-987-8100 Stacy Mullins, Director of Events. . ............................................ 815-316-4302 Caitlin Pusateri, Vice President, Leadership Development................... 815-316-4337 Doug Rand, Accounting Manager/Controller............................... 815-316-4316 Joan Sundvall, Membership Contact Coordinator......................... 815-316-4320

Chamber Board of Directors & Officers EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

DIRECTORS Andrew Benson Benson Stone Company, Inc.

Chairman of the Board Richard Zumwalt Z Resource

Jan Bowman TLC Construction

Vice Chair Michele Petrie Wintrust Bank

LaVonne Brown Savant Capital Management

Vice Chair Dan Ross Williams-Manny Insurance Group

Paula Carynski OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center Samuel J. Castree Staff Management, Inc.

Treasurer Amy Ott Boylan Catholic High School Immediate Past Chair Patti Thayer Thayer Lighting, Inc.

Joe Castrogiovanni Giovanni’s, Inc. Rena Cotsones Northern Illinois University Jean Crosby Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Crosby Starck Real Estate Don Daniels SwedishAmerican, A Division of UW Health

Rebecca Epperson Chartwell Agency

Patrick Shaw RSM US LLP

Ira Grimmett UTC Aerospace Systems

Karl Swanson Rockford Bank & Trust Co.

Tim Honquest Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory

Jon Thompson Butitta Brothers Automotive

Jeff Hultman Illinois Bank & Trust Michael F. Iasparro Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP Kris L. Kieper Machajewski YWCA Northwestern Illinois Patrick Morrow Alpine Bank Mike Paterson Mid-West Family Broadcasting Mark Peterson CBL Associates Cherry Vale John Schuster Rosecrance Health Network

Laura Pigatti Williamson Rockford Park District

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

Let your Voice be heard 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