June Voice 2012

The Voice is online at rockfordchamber.com

GRANITAS AT ZAMMUTO’S

SUMMER IN THE CITY

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June 2012 | Volume 25 | No. 6 ROCKFORD AIRPORT MAKES JAMAICA CONNECTION

Leadership Rockford

Today the Greater Rockford Airport Authority approved an agreement with Apple Vacations to provide nonstop service to Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay, Jamaica. The first departure flight from Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) will be Jan. 28, 2013. Weekly departure and return flights will run through April 1, 2013.

Tickets from RFD to Montego Bay are on sale at www.FlyRFD. com, www.AppleVacations.com or a travel agent.

57 years of formative instruction

By Paul Anthony Arco When Jake Loescher signed up for Leadership Rockford, the financial adviser from Savant Capital Management, Inc., had no idea what to expect.

He does now.

“It was awesome to meet a lot of people in Rockford who were likeminded individuals,” Loescher said.

“One thing our group discovered was that we all can push for better things for our community. That’s one thing that’s missing from Rockford. You don’t hear

Photos by Brian Thomas Photography

Keynote speaker, Pablo Korona, generated excitement with his affirming video about Rockford. many positive things. But I took away a greater sense of optimism.”

On May 10, more than 225 business and community leaders turned out for the Celebration of Leadership luncheon at the Radisson Hotel & Conference Center. This year’s graduating class included 32 professionals from local nonprofits, businesses and government

agencies. It was the 57th year of the leadership program.

Originally known as the Community Awareness Program (CAP), Leadership Rockford is the chamber’s signature leadership development program. more on page 3

Rockford native Emily Hurd will perform with her band on Aug. 9 at Music in the Park at Sinnissippi Park Music Shell. Hurd has produced eight full-length studio albums.

Her song “Help Me to Understand” was featured in the 2011 season of CBS’s NCIS crime series.

n online registration n keynote speaker video clips n event photos n list of Chamber events Questions? 815-987-8100

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

By Barbara Connors and the RACVB Temperatures are heating up and thoughts turning towards summer fun. Time to start making plans with family and friends at the many summer venues and events in the Rockford area. At the farmers markets around town you can purchase fresh produce, plants and other natural goods almost any day of the week. Whether it’s day or evening, meet family and friends at the free or budget-friendly performances and events. There is something for everyone, whether you are a fan of

Women in Business Luncheon June 21 • Cliffbreakers For more info, see page 27

Investing in Emerging Leaders

Hot town…summer in the city

Visit us online at: rockfordchamber.com

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

movies, music, history, theater or the beautiful outdoors. This is just a sample of the many places you can go in the region. For specific events, visit Community Events on page 27.

What’s new this year Tuesday Evenings in the Gardens Tuesdays • 5:15 p.m.

Anderson Japanese Gardens 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford June 5 to Aug. 28 (no event July 3) 815-229-9390 This new event series is described more on page 8

REGIONAL ACTIVITY CENTER AT WINDSOR LAKE UNDER CONSIDERATION The Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners heard a proposal to transform Windsor Lake, off North Alpine Road and Windsor Road in Loves Park, into a Regional Activity Center. Owners Ed and Kurt Carlson expressed an interest in working with the Rockford Park District to open the lake to the general public.

The Rockford Park District would partner with Paddle and Trail, which would be responsible for operational costs, to offer water programs such as kayaking, canoeing and windsurfing. The lake also would be open to the public for regulated fishing, leagues and derbies, along with rental boat opportunities, hiking, exploration and winter activities. Boating on Windsor Lake would only be available through rental options at Paddle and Trail.

After public feedback, more board discussion and board approval, and required licensing and safety items in place, the Regional Activity Center at Windsor Lake pilot program could begin operating as early as July, 2012.

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June 2012

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President’s Message VIEWPOINT

Help light the way…

Becky and Chuck Brown Bridge Lighting Project Announced Have you ever met a person who seems to light up the room upon their entrance? Or someone who you could describe as having a heart of gold? Both of these statements accurately describe Becky Brown.

As many of you know, Becky was an “institution” with the Rockford Chamber for over 30 years and represented all that a chamber of commerce means to a community. Someone who could light up a room with her smile, Becky was committed to making Rockford a better place to live, work, and raise a family.

Her passion, laughter, and beauty warmed many hearts as she worked

tirelessly to make Rockford shine. She was instrumental in Rockford initiatives such as: Beattie Is, ON the Waterfront, Rockford Magazine, and Rockford Volleyball.

Becky dreamed of helping to light a bridge in Rockford to remind us all to cherish this city. After Becky passed away, Chuck initiated the project as a memorial to her. Unfortunately the project was not able to be completed during Chuck’s lifetime, either. Chuck passed away in May 2011, just nine months after Becky, both leaving this earth before their time as a result of serious illness. At the time of his death,

Chuck Brown was a dedicated Rockford Park District Commissioner recognized for his efforts to beautify Rockford.

Becky and Chuck were great leaders and supporters of the Rockford community and both shared a passion for the Rock River and what it means to Rockford.

With hopes of keeping Becky and Chuck’s memory shining on for years to come, a project is underway through the Rockford Park District Foundation to light the “Riverby Bridge” located on the Rock River Recreational Path. Once the fundraising goal is complete, the Rockford Park District Board of Commission-

Becky and Chuck Brown

The proposed lighting project for the Riverby Bridge.

ers will rename Einar K. Forsman the bridge in Rockford Chamber Becky and of Commerce Chuck’s honor.

The project now continues as a tribute to both of these wonderful people and will serve as a great community benefit for the users of the recreational path.

About the Bridge The Riverby Bridge is a pedestrian bridge that crosses Spring Creek where it flows into the Rock River, just north of the Auburn Street Bridge. The bridge is 100 feet in length and is a unique design that is the first of its kind in Rockford.

The lighting of the bridge will create a wonderful image of the bridge at night as well as serving to illuminate the area for path users.

The fundraising goal is $30,000 to do the lighting, landscaping and labor. We encourage you to share in the memory of Becky and Chuck Brown and make a contribution to make this wonderful project a reality! You can donate online at www.rpdfoundation.org or complete the donor form on that page as well.

Thanks for your support!

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

June 2012

Participants celebrate their graduation following the eight-month leadership program.

Leadership Rockford Continued from front page It runs for eight months and helps participants gain knowledge and awareness of business, government and civic issues, as well as take part in group and panel discussions and community service projects.

“Leadership Rockford is a great way for the Chamber and its members to invest in the region’s emerging leaders by providing opportunities to provide relationships with other leaders and become engaged and informed about our community,” said Einar Forsman, president & CEO of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce. “Looking at the list of graduates from the Leadership Rockford program over the last 57 years, you are sure to find a strong legacy of leaders who have made significant contributions to our region.”

The class met bi-weekly from October to May to discuss topics ranging from transportation and economic development to education and diversity.

Each session included a panel of experts and industry leaders who offered their insight and expertise. Leadership Rockford participants also had the chance to meet with state legislators during a class trip to Springfield in April.

Therese Michels, marketing and communications manager for OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, was one of this year’s participants. The program was recommended to her by colleagues who participated in previous programs.

“It was a great experience. I saw things I never knew existed in Rockford,” she said. “I met many up and coming leaders, and our project, working with LYDIA Academy-

Rockford to gain some exposure, was wonderful. I would recommend Leadership Rockford to anyone who is considering getting involved.”

The moderators for this year’s program were Jeff Tilly, Rockford Register Star, Lisa Johnson, OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, and Patricia Diduch, RREDD. The 2012-2013 moderators were introduced at the luncheon: Jake Loescher, Savant Capital Management, Inc.; Geoffrey Oman, Greater Rockford Airport Authority, and Kelly Vinje, Gordon Flesch Company, Inc.

Videos Tell the Rockford Story The keynote speaker at this year’s luncheon was Pablo Korona, producer of “Our City, Our Story,” a video project he started about a year ago to share positive stories about Rockford and the people who live here. Korona has edited six videos so far – a new one is available every other week and can be found at www.ourstoryourcity.com.

“It’s the people here who make Rockford so amazing,” he told the crowd. “I get misty when putting together these videos. Wouldn’t it be great to inspire other communities to do the same thing?”

Others agree.

“It’s a great way to tell our story,” said Anne O’Keefe, president and CEO of the Rockford Area Arts Council. “These are extraordinary people – people we rub shoulders with every day. They’re not celebrities; they’re everyday people who make this city what it is. I think we lose sight of that. To use this art form of filmmaking and to tell these incredible stories is very powerful.”

Celebration of Leadership was presented by PNC Bank. n

Let your Voice be heard The Rockford Chamber of Commerce ­ elcomes and encourages submissions w for The VOICE of the Rockford Business Community. Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding ­publication. Send news releases and other items of interest to the business community to: The VOICE Rockford Chamber of Commerce 308 W. State St., Ste. 190 Rockford, IL 61101

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

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

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

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Young people work at a community gardening session at Buddy House in Rockford.

Local CSA farm gains global profile Short film highlights farm’s work with urban youth

By Barbara Connors A short film based on Angelic Organics Learning Center’s urban agriculture initiatives in Rockford was one of six screened at the second-annual Chicago Film Premier in May at Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago. Shot in July 2011, the film features the Angelic Organics farm in Caledonia, Ill., as well as its Learning Center projects at sites in Rockford. These projects include prairie restoration at Tinker Swiss Museum & Gardens and a youth community garden at Blackhawk Courts.

The film also features interviews with Angelic Organics founder John Peterson and Rockford Mayor Larry Morrissey.

Connecting Urban Families to the Land Since 1990, Peterson has grown Angelic Organics into one of the largest community supported agriculture farms in the Midwest. More than 1,500 families throughout the region, including many in Chicago, buy shares in the farm before the growing season and receive fresh vegetables, fruit and herbs weekly at harvest time.

In 1999, Angelic Organics founded the Learning Center, a nonprofit educational partner that initiates programs at partner farms and urban growing sites in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. With a philosophy towards connecting urban families with agriculture, its communitybased projects in Rockford have focused on providing hands-on learning and greater access to fresh, healthy food.

Teaching Youth in Leadership through Agriculture The Learning Center urban initiative in Rockford encourages at-risk youth to become leaders. These teens teach younger kids about gardening and food, and market what they grow throughout the summer -- earning money, job skills and public speaking experience. Since 2002, it has partnered with community groups to develop gardens at Concord Commons, Camaraderie Arts/Fairgrounds Valley, Friends’ House, Northwest Community Center, and Salvation Army Kilburn Community Center.

A key project, Eco Advocates,

Katie Townsend, urban farm educator with Angelic Organics Learning Center, and Jovon Garrett, Eco Advocate, meet with Rockford Mayor Larry Morrissey at the project site at Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum. launched in 2010. In partnership with Comprehensive Community Solutions/ YouthBuild Rockford, it trains young people, 18 to 25, in urban agriculture while they earn their GEDs. Eco Advocates and Lutheran Social Services of Illinois in turn have worked with youth to develop community gardens at Buddy House, located at Rockford Housing Authority’s Blackhawk Housing. “The gardens have brought people together,” said Corinne Henry, director of development and communications at the Learning Center.

“There’s been less vandalism and violence.”

She said the program is expanding, with RHA implementing community gardens at other sites, using the Buddy House project as a model.

Taking the Story around the World Angelic Organics founder John Peterson was guest speaker at the short film premier in Chicago in May. He has earned notoriety as the subject of Taggart Siegel’s award-winning feature documentary film, The Real Dirt on Farmer John, and as publisher in 2006 of Farmer John’s Cookbook: The Real Dirt on Vegetables.

“Through Angelic Organics Learning Center, the farm is building new leadership for the local and organic food movement – from beginning farmers to urban youth,” Peterson said. “We are excited to be able to tell their stories through this film.” After the event, the film goes on a grassroots mobile tour across the United States and the world, as part of film production company Green Living Project’s work to bring global sustainability-related stories to the world.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

June 2012

PROFILE

Member Company Profile

Zina (sitting) and daughter Alida Horton have continued the Zammuto tradition of selling granitas, and added their own favorites to the menu, like sweet potato pie and caramel cake.

The passion is in the food Rockford native fulfills dream of opening her own restaurant

By Paul Anthony Arco As far back as when she was a student, Zina Horton told classmates that she would one day own a restaurant. Throughout her career, food was never far from her mind, even when she drove a school bus, worked as a recreation coordinator and as a certified nursing assistant.

“My passion is cooking, period,” said Horton, who worked at Beefaroo for 17 years, learning the ropes of running a restaurant. “Food is wonderful. It can alter your mood, and it can be a comfort to you. It’s a celebration that brings families together. When I’m cooking at home, everyone congregates in my kitchen.”

The Rockford native brings that enthusiasm every day to the two businesses she owns with her daughter, Alida. They operate Zammuto’s Drive-In and Carry Out (725 Kent St.) and Sweet Ambrosia Desserts & Catering, both under the parent company name of Alexza Inc. “I love being my own boss,” Horton said. “Don’t get me wrong, it’s very hard work. The hours are long and finding a good staff that adheres to your standards and expectations is the hardest part. A good employee has to smile or be willing to learn good customer service skills and realize the customer is always the first priority.”

Continuing the Tradition In 2007, Horton purchased Zammuto’s, which Frank Zammuto opened in 1925.

The restaurant is known for its granitas, a semi-frozen dessert similar to Italian ice.

When she took over the business, Horton had no idea how to make a granita, even going to the Internet looking for help.

She found it, however, in Joe Zammuto, the son of the late owner. “He came in a couple times a week to show us the family recipe,” Horton said. “We wouldn’t have known what to do without his help.” These days, Zammuto’s not only sells granitas at the restaurant, but the tasty treat can be found at various events, such as Festa Italiana and Rockford City Market.

Since becoming owner, Horton has tweaked the menu, adding comfort foods on weekends. Zammuto’s serves up burgers, hot dogs and hand-battered

chicken. Weekend dinners include collard greens, catfish, macaroni and cheese, and spaghetti. “Zammuto’s is not a place to come, it’s a place to experience,” she said.

Customers travel to Zammuto’s from across the area, including Freeport, Rochelle, and as far away as Madison, Wis. Horton is a hands-on owner, waiting on customers, as well as helping out in the kitchen. She does everything she asks of her employees. Horton and her staff have become close to many long-time customers, some who stop in a couple times a day. “We already know what they want before they walk through the door,” Horton said. “My son said it best: everything is cooked with love.”

Desserts, Full-Service Catering Horton’s work days can be hectic.

Besides Zammuto’s, Horton operates Sweet Ambrosia, a dessert and full-service catering company, which she opened in 1990.

Among the many desserts she bakes from a commercial kitchen located at Zammuto’s are sweet potato pie, caramel cakes, and the ever-popular German chocolate cake.

While wedding cakes remain in demand, Horton said many brides are opting for cupcakes for economical reasons. In addition to brides, Sweet Ambrosia’s list of clients include: the Rock River Valley Food Bank, SwedishAmerican Health System, Booker Washington Community Center and Burpee Art Museum.

As for the future, Horton said the opportunities for expansion are endless. “I love being a locally-owned business,” she said. “I take great pride in doing what I do.”

Zammuto’s is open Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sundays from 12:30 to 9 p.m. Summer hours are from 11 a.m. to midnight.

ZAMMUTO’S Owner: Zina Horton 725 Kent St., Rockford 815-962-9180 www.zammutos.com

SWEET AMBROSIA

DESSERTS & CATERING 115 7th St., Ste. 201, Rockford 815-962-9185 www.sweetambrosia.us

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Access capital through new state incentive program:

Advantage Illinois

By Carrie Zethmayr, RAEDC

Participation Loan Program (PLP)

The Brookings Institution recently noted more than 95 percent of new jobs are derived from business expansion or start up activity. The number one challenge small businesses face in today’s economy is gaining the funds they need to start or run their business. Enhancing access to capital must be a top priority to expand job growth opportunities.

Advantage Illinois, the state of Illinois’ enhanced portfolio of lending and venture capital programs, is designed to help small businesses gain much-needed access to capital.

Advantage Illinois will accelerate investments and ease the credit crunch for small businesses, thanks to more than $78 million from the federal State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) of the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010.

Advantage Illinois consists of three programs to spur institutional lending to small businesses, and one program to leverage private venture capital in startups and high-growth businesses. Below is an overview of those programs.

■■ Mitigates lender risk since DCEO purchases part of the loan and takes a subordinate position to lender

Institutional Lending ■■ Capital Access Program (CAP) ■■ Reduces amount of capital lenders need to establish loan reserves ■■ Mitigates lender risk with minimal administrative/servicing burden ■■ Creates a pool which offsets shortfalls remaining after lenders liquidate individual loans ■■ Helps finance larger projects now that the maximum loan size has been increased to $1 million ■■ Helps borrowers qualify for loans for which they wouldn’t normally be eligible

■■ Provides borrowers with a lower interest rate when lender and DCEO rates are combined ■■ Increases DCEO support per FTE $25,000 to $65,000 ■■ Helps borrowers qualify for loans for which they wouldn’t normally be eligible

Collateral Support Program ■■ Mitigates lender risk through additional cash collateral on deposit with lender ■■ Increases lender’s deposit base as a DCEO provides funds under same rates and terms as other normal bank clients ■■ Supplements borrower’s pledged collateral when its own is deemed insufficient by lender ■■ Helps borrowers qualify for loans for which they wouldn’t normally be eligible

Venture Capital ■■ Invest Illinois Venture Fund (IIVF) ■■ Speeds commercialization of research discoveries in high-growth sectors ■■ Helps small business attract private investment ■■ Increases number of viable start-ups in Illinois ■■ Help businesses commercialize research discoveries faster For more information on these programs, contact Carrie Zethmayr at 815-987-8118 or czethmayr@rockfordil.com. Carrie Zethmayr is manager of international trade at the Rockford Area Economic Development Council.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Small Business Development Center:

Version 2.0 Rock Valley College’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the EIGERlab has a new leader, Brian McIntyre. McIntyre is no stranger to business development.

In his current and previous roles, he’s assisted with a plethora of differentsized businesses in all stages of development. Since starting at the SBDC, he has implemented new programs, personally connected with bankers, attorneys and accountants.

He also has partnered with additional consultants and was a key participant in regard to the creation of EIGERlab’s CTeam.

McIntyre is a staunch believer in the success of our community. He and the rest of his SBDC colleagues assist businesses owners in taking that next step toward growth and expansion using a collaborative, holistic approach.

Armed with an arsenal of resources, McIntyre unites the organizations and key people that will assist entrepreneurs in reaching their dreams in the shortest time possible. He states, “It’s very rewarding to experience the passion and excitement entrepreneurs convey when we resolve their issues.

Sometimes it’s difficult for owners to reach solutions on their own when they are knee deep in the weeds.”

In the short time he’s been the program’s director, he’s already able to report positive results. Recently he assisted Craig Sockwell, owner of Rockford Transport, who shared, “Brian is a great listener, and I honestly believe he cares and loves what he’s doing.”

Brian McIntyre, RVC Small Business Development Center

Additional Funding With TIES Designation Because of our region’s strong advanced manufacturing, aerospace and IT sectors, Rockford’s SBDC was fortunate enough to be one of only 10 SBDCs chosen throughout Illinois to become a SBDC-TIES, which stands for technology, innovation and entrepreneurship. Those centers with the TIES designation were awarded with additional funding to support specific technology-based initiatives. A group of clients in these sectors have received assistance with targeted, goal-oriented counseling and business plan development through the TIES program.

McIntyre is no stranger to Rockford or the EIGERlab. He’s a RVC graduate, and previously rented incubator space at the E-L while working with a firm that invested in small businesses. He became immersed in E-L’s culture and decided to be part of the team.

He shared, “My new role is more rewarding than I imagined. If you love what you do, the bad days get forgotten.”

Sherry Pritz is marketing coordinator at EIGERlab - Rock Valley College.

PMI points to expansion in manufacturing sector One of the publications I read routinely is the Institute on Supply Management’s (ISM) Monthly Report on Business, which provides updates on the Purchasing Manager’s Index (PMI) numbers. PMI is a very important sentiment reading, not only for manufacturing, but for the economy as a whole.

Manufacturing is a major part of our regional economy. It also is where recessions tend to begin and end. For this reason, the PMI reading is watched closely, with the magic number being 50

-- 50 or higher generally indicates that the industry is expanding. If manufacturing is expanding, the general economy should be as well.

Expansion Over 33 Months According to the April 2012 Manufacturing ISM Report on Business, PMI registered at 54.8 percent, a 1.4 percent increase over March’s reading of 53.4 percent. This indicates expansion in the manufacturing sector for the 33rd consecutive month. Comments collected in ISM’s monthly survey of

purchasing managers suggest that they are confident about the manufacturing industry in the near future. A manager from a machinery manufacturer said, “In general, demand remains strong for products, and we (are experiencing) more supply disruptions now than four to five months ago.”

I hear similar comments during my Voice of the Customer business retention visits. Local manufacturers have had to respond to increases in demand for their products and services by increasing their levels of production.

Many manufacturers expect production levels to remain at this higher level, or increase over the next quarter.

Reports like this are very encouraging.

Our role as an economic development council is to be a resource and support the continued growth of companies in the region in any way possible. The April Report on Business can be read at www.ism.ws/ismreport/mfgrob.cfm.

Matthew Simpson is business development specialist at the Rockford Area Economic Development Council.

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June 2012

Manufacturers in the News

To meet or not to meet …

Making meetings more cost-effective, productive

Wendy Perks Fisher, chair of the Eclipse Foundation; Doug Perks, Eclipse chairman and CEO; Dipender Manhas, operations manager Eclipse India, and Mike Damsell, director Asia operations, attend the opening of an expanded facility in India.

Eclipse Inc., founded in Rockford, announced the relocation of its Eclipse Montreal operations to a larger, modern building in Brossard, Canada, 15 minutes from downtown Montreal. It launched a new company website in four languages; English, German, Spanish and Chinese to extend its global reach. Eclipse opened its newly constructed facility in India, replacing

its former operation in Pune, India.

The new facility is three times larger and employs about 40 members.

Rocknel Fastener, Inc., was featured on a national broadcast segment of Manufacturing Marvels, which appeared during the Cavuto on Business show on FOX Business Network. See the two-minute segment at www.Rocknel.com.

To meet or not to meet can be a costly decision. As the manufacturing sector continues to experience a positive uptick in job orders and production, time becomes a high-priced commodity.

Your time now is being spent making sure quality products get out the door in a timely fashion.

Since your time during the day has become limited, it is extremely imperative that any meeting you conduct, whether it is 10 or 60 minutes long, be effective and productive.

According to the National Statistics Council, 37 percent of employee time is spent in meetings. Additional data indicates there are 11 million business meetings each and every day. Depending on your hourly wage or salary, these meetings can prove to be money not well spent if they are not productive. In a study conducted by InfoCom, a division of NFO Worldwide, respondents were asked what they thought were the keys

RVC students develop renewable energy innovations A portable biomass stove that can help third-world countries and a process for extracting electrical energy from a creek were just two of the renewable energy internship projects that Rock Valley College students presented on May 8 at Freedom Field Renewable Energy in Rockford. Freedom Field is a not-for-profit organization focused on developing and operating a renewable energy solutions center, growing the regional awareness of renewable energy opportunities, and facilitating the development and commercialization of renewable energy solutions.

The students who presented came from Rock Valley College’s electronic engineering technology, manufacturing engineering technology, and sustainable energy systems programs.

Professor Stephen R. Fleeman, chair of sustainable energy systems, was

academic advisor. Chester Kolodziej and John Sweeney, Freedom Field; Dave Martindale, Ballard Engineering, and Ron Gilley, Gilley’s Heating and Air Conditioning, provided mentoring and assistance.

The Innovations, the Opportunities Students presented these projects and economic development opportunities.

Biomass Stove. How to develop a portable biomass stove to help thirdworld countries, reside in the backyard, or even be part of the next camping trip.

Energy Storage. How to invest and realize a profit with real-time electrical energy pricing.

Green-Roof Instrumentation.

Using measurements to assess and characterize a green roof. Do they

work? How can we make them work better?

Ground-Mounted Photovoltaic Arrays. Using micro-inverters to optimize the energy harvesting of an array of solar modules.

LED Lighting. How to save money and not look like the Frankenstein monster or his bride in the morning thanks to LED lighting.

Microhydro. Extracting electrical energy from a creek and teaching microhydro principles.

Solar “Bike.” Using solar energy storage to power an electric vehicle.

Variable Speed Pump. Applying a Danfoss Variable Frequency Drive to a pump application to save energy, and improve overall system performance.

Wind Turbine Controls Design.

Developing a control system for wind turbine blades.

to productive meetings. The most important factor was meeting agenda Bernie Luecke RVC BPI preparation: 73 percent of respondents characterized having a prepared agenda as “very important.”

Steps for More Effective Meetings All manufacturing businesses have and will continue to experience common meeting problems. In the Meeting Skills for Leaders: Making meetings more productive; Fourth Edition Crisp Series Book, written by Marion E. Haynes, he recommends specific steps you can take in holding more effective meetings.

1. State your objective. Every meeting must have an objective.

2. Prepare an agenda. It is essential and should be given to participants in advance.

3. Manage the meeting time and allow sufficient time for participants to become involved and feel satisfied with the outcome.

4. Take charge, since effective control and guidance are required.

5. Close with a summary. Every meeting should close with a restatement of the meeting’s objective, a summary of what was accomplished toward the objective, and a review of any agreedupon action that needs to be taken.

For more information on conducting an effective meeting, contact the Business and Professional Institute.

BPI offers customized meeting training, ensuring that your meetings are more productive. If you need assistance with meeting training, please contact Bernie at 815-921-2067 or b.luecke@ rockvalleycollege.edu.

Bernie Luecke is director, business development, Business & Professional Institute, Rock Valley College.

Manufacturing Update is sponsored by RVC BPI

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June 2012 theVoice rockfordchamber.com

FOCUS ON SUMMER IN THE CITY

Magic Waters’ latest attraction “Double Dare Drop” is the tallest attraction at the park, with each slide dropping 75 feet.

Hot town…

Continued from front page as a scaled-down “Ravinia West,” with the gardens being made available as a gathering place for friends and families.

Guests can bring blankets, chairs and picnic baskets with a light supper (no beverages). Musicians will perform outside the pavilion, and the five acres will be available for guests to enjoy.

Local food and beverage vendors will be available with bottled water, soft drinks, beer and wine.

New Midway Village Permanent Exhibit Opening Day Celebration Saturday, June 30 Midway Village Museum 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Midway Village Museum debuts the first of its new, permanent exhibits in the “Many Faces, One Community” immersive gallery, portraying Rockford’s immigrant experiences.

Exhibits will show Rockford’s rich history, diversity, cultural traditions, and the families that call Rockford home.

See the opening of the Train Depot and Furniture Factory, cultural dances and music, classic games, genealogy experts, talks on immigrant experiences and ethnic food. Have your story filmed

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden presents its outdoor Woodsong Concert series again this summer.

Edgebrook Farmers Market

What Residents Have to Say “Rockford has great golf courses, and it is always fun spending a few hours with friends on any one of the many courses in and around the area.”

Don Shearer, Mylan Institutional by “Our City, Our Story’s” Pablo Korona.

River Walk http://www.rockfordil.gov/ public-works/projects/rockfordriverwalk.aspx The City of Rockford is working with the Rockford Park District and the Riverfront Museum Campus to design a Riverwalk improvement.

The facility will include an iconic cable-stay bridge, multi-use path connections to existing downtown trails, and a small amphitheatre for educational uses. Construction will add to the recent Burpee Museum of Natural History and Discovery Center Museum expansion projects with 10,000 more square feet of exhibition space and exhibits halls for both museums.

Rick’s Pics Exhibit Opening Friday, Aug. 10 Burpee Museum of Natural History 737 N. Main St., Rockford Sunday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

815-965-3433 www.rickspickslive.com www.burpee.org

Cheap Trick’s Rick Nielsen and Burpee Museum of Natural History have created a one-of-a-kind exhibit telling the story of Nielsen’s passions for guitars, music and Rock & Roll. Unlike any museum exhibit seen before, the state-of-the-art multimedia experience will allow visitors to step into the mind of one of Rock & Roll’s legends.

Double Dare Drop Magic Waters Waterpark 7820 CherryVale North Blvd., Cherry Valley June 2 to Aug. 19 815-966-2442 www.magicwaterswaterpark.com Magic Waters’ latest attraction, “Double Dare Drop” is faster, more daring and the tallest attraction at the park, with each slide a 75-foot drop.

Fresh Air Markets Colonial Village Farmers Market Fridays • 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Newburg and Alpine Roads, Rockford May to October 815-398-3350

Wednesdays • 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

1601 N. Alpine Road, Rockford May 2 to Oct. 31 815-226-0212 www.edgebrookshops.com Dozens of local farmers sell vegetables, fruits, flowers and plants.

On occasion, local musicians perform.

North End Commons Farmers Market Saturdays • 8 a.m. to noon 1400 block of North Main and Auburn, Rockford May to October 815-978-3071 www.northendcommons.com Locally grown produce; perennials, herbs and vegetables; and newest vendor, Kokobear Bakery with scones, breads, coffee cakes and specialty cheesecakes. Sample cheeses with new vendor, Lime Rock Brown Swiss Cheese.

Rockford City Market Fridays • 3 to 8 p.m. (before Labor Day); 3 to 7 p.m. (after Labor Day) Water Street, between State and Jefferson, downtown Rockford June 1 to Oct. 22 815-964-4388 www.rockfordcitymarket.com Features natural products -vegetables, fruit, eggs, meat, cheeses, flowers, herbs, baked goods, wine and healthy snacks, and artisans and

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FOCUS ON SUMMER IN THE CITY

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vendors with unique offerings. Locally grown produce and unique retail items.

Downtown Beloit Farmers Market Saturdays • 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

State and Grand June to October Shop the open-air market in historic downtown Beloit. A community tradition spanning more than 30 years and more than 60 vendors selling local produce, organics, baked goods, honey, jams and jellies, herbs, bedding plants, fish, meat, eggs and cheese, fresh flowers, artisan crafts, and scents and skin care.

Rockton Farmers Market Wednesdays • 4 to 7 p.m.

Rockton United Methodist Church 102 Chapel, Rockton May 23 to Oct. 24 815-624-7625 www.rocktonchamber.com Farm-fresh food and other handmade items.

Favorites Are Back!

Music on the Mall Fridays • 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Edgebrook 1601 N. Alpine Road, Rockford May 18 to Sept. 28 www.edgebrookshops.com for concert list Bring your own chair, or find one provided, and enjoy free live musical entertainment at Edgebrook outside Mary’s Market.

The design for the Riverwalk improvement includes pedestrian trails and gathering spaces along the Rock River at the Riverfront Museum Campus near downtown Rockford.

What Residents Have to Say “A great place to meet friends, have a snack and listen to great music? The free concerts at Davis Park! Kryptonite Bar in downtown Rockford is great after the concert.”

Debbie Hutchinson, Cliffbreakers Riverside Resort and Lexington Hotel Starlight Theatre, 46th Season

Sounds of Summer Free Entertainment Series

Rock Valley College 3301 N. Mulford Road 815-921-2160 www.rockvalleycollege.edu June 6 to 9; July 11 to 15 Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street!

June 13 to 16; July 18 to 22 Little Women June 20 to 23; July 25 to 29 Into the Woods June 27 to 30; August 1 to 5 9 to 5: the Musical

Rockford Park District www.rockfordparkdistrict.org for locations and performances

Music in the Park Tuesdays/Thursdays • June 12 to Aug. 16, 7:30 p.m.

Free evening performances at the historic Sinnissippi Park Music Shell.

Imagination Station Wednesdays • June 13 to Aug. 8, 1:30 p.m.

Free, 45-minute daytime shows

for the young and the young-at-heart!

Music, magic, juggling, drama and comedy at Sinnissippi Park Music Shell.

Charlotte’s Web Summer Series Saturdays • June 25, July 9, July 23, 7:30 p.m.

Free evening performances -- the best of folk, blues, jazz and world music at Sinnissippi Park Music Shell.

Live at Levings Sundays • June 5, 12, 26; July 17, 24; Aug. 7, 3 to 7 p.m.

All varieties of talent -- singers, dancers, rappers, comedians and magicians at Levings Park at Montague Street and South Johnston Avenue.

Domingo En El Parque Sundays • June 19, July 10, July 31, 3 to 7 p.m.

Music, arts and culture of Rockford’s Latino community at Levings Park. (continued on page 11)

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FOCUS ON SUMMER IN THE CITY

June 2012 theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Golf Classic – Rock Vegas Style!

It was no game of chance. It was a sure bet that a good time was had by all at the Rockford Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic, a Vegas-themed event on the green felt of Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Club on May 21. Hole sponsors showed their Vegas spirit with decorated booths.

A great day on the links ended with an evening of dinner and drinks in the Clubhouse. Thanks once again to the sponsors of the event.

SwedishAmerican Health System (presenting) Comcast (gold) Humana (umbrella) OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center (photo) General Mitchell International Airport (greens) The Alliance (greens) Olsson Roofing Company, Inc. (mulligan)

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June 2012

Hot town…

Continued from page 9

Free movies on the north lawn of Davis Park every Friday.

Dinner on the Dock

First Fridays – Art, Music, Food, Shopping

Thursdays • 5 to 10 p.m.

Prairie Street Brewhouse 200 Prairie St., Rockford May 17 to June 28 www.facebook.com/psbrewhouse May 17. Empty Pockets May 24. A Few Good Men May 31. Clare Black and the LA Trio June 7. Matt Ulery Trio June 14. Miles Nielsen June 21. Between Planes Unplugged June 28. Dane Penn & Starlite Radio Live music, food and drinks on the deck. A casual, weekly event unlike anything you’ve experienced -- right by the water. Come by boat, car, bike or foot.

No reservations. First come, first served.

Friday Night Flix Fridays Davis Park 320 S. Wyman St., Rockford June 8 to Aug. 24 www.facebook.com/FridayNightFlix for movie lineup

First Friday, every month • 5 p.m. to midnight downtown Rockford www.firstfridaysrockford.com Downtown art galleries, shops, music and theater venues work together to stay open late, providing great new art, music and goods.

Woodsong Concerts Gates open 4 p.m.; concert at 6 p.m.

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden 2715 S. Main St., Rockford 815-965-8146 www.klehm.org June 10. New Odyssey July 8. Corky Seigel, with special guest Randy Sabien Aug. 12. BritBeat Grab a picnic basket and lawn chairs, and pack up the kids for an evening of fun at the arboretum. Openair concerts in the beautiful Fountain Garden. Gates open early for time to explore the gardens and grounds. n

What Residents Have to Say I really enjoy the Friday Night Flix at Davis Park.

My daughter thinks it is so fun to be able to eat popcorn and watch a movie outside. Also, we really like to watch the Ski Broncs at Shorewood Park. Jessica A. Rielly, Stillman Bank My favorite summer activities include enjoying dinner at the patio at The Olympic or Der Rathskeller, as well as going to local farmers’ markets. As for outside activities, I love to walk the riverfront and take advantage of the parks for bike riding and hikes.

Jessica Koltz, Rasmussen College-Rockford Campus Definitely, riding bicycle and walking in the great parks of Rockford land.

Angel Urrea, LUNA Rock Cut State Park for trail running and mountain bike riding! Then a local place like RBI’s after for a cold beer and lunch ... great stuff!

Mark Smirz, TBC Net, Inc. I have enjoyed some nice lunches on Mash-Up’s patio.

Frank Dyke, 89.5 WNIJ & 90.5 WNIU

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FOCUS ON HOME IMPROVEMENT/REAL ESTATE SERVICES

June 2012 theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

Giving your home the competitive edge In these competitive times in the real estate market, it is important to consider staging your home to give you the edge and make your home stand out. Statistics show that 79 percent of homeowners who have their home staged sell it for an average of three to 10 percent more than comparable homes that are not staged. The investment cost of staging is significantly less than a home’s first price reduction!

Ninety-three percent of staged homes sell on average in one month or less, and comparable homes not staged sit on the market 146 days or more.

Many consider moving as one of life’s most stressful events. A National Association of Realtors survey finds that the longer a home stays on the market, the further below list price it drops. A house that has been staged usually can be sold two to three times quicker, and at a higher asking price.

Here’s some more statistics: Ninetythree percent of staged homes sell on average in one month or less, and comparable homes not staged sit on the market 146 days or more. Only 10 percent of buyers can recognize the “potential” in a home, which means if your home is not properly staged, 90 percent of potential buyers viewing your home will dismiss it and move on.

Beyond Repairs, Cleanliness Generally, homeowners spend between one to three percent of the dollar value of their home to prepare it for sale, including repairs, painting, minor upgrades, storage facility, hiring a home stager, etc. Ninety-four percent of buyers now use the Internet to search for home, and professionally staging it brings quality to those photographs.

Staging goes beyond decorating, to showcasing “the product.” Consider that new construction model homes are set

Cathy Wiseley Stage It Wiseley

up to display an ideal image of home life.

When selling, you also want to sell a lifestyle, but not your lifestyle. Buyers need to image themselves living in your house. The way you live in your home, and the way your home is marketed are two different things.

Some Staging FAQs When Should I Stage My Home?

Ideally, a home should be staged before it is listed on the market. Realtors will verify that the most critical time for home selling is the first two weeks on the market. This is when you have the greatest interest in your home. This also is when the agent tours or broker’s open house takes place, which is when realtors in your area tour your home.

You want to make sure it looks its very best from the start, so that buyers and their realtors can see – not just imagine your home’s potential.

My House is Already on the Market … Is it Too Late to Stage? No. It is not unusual for homes to be staged after sitting on the market for a while.

How Long Does it Take to Stage a Home? Depending on the size of your home and how many rooms you want staged, the process can take one to three days.

Can You Use My Existing Furnishings? Staging professionals use existing furniture in ways you may not have imagined.

My Home is Vacant. Does it Need Staging? It’s a proven fact that furnished homes sell faster. Buyers need visual cues to envision the potential of a space. Most stagers have their own rental inventory of furniture and accessories, or you can make arrangements from local vendors to provide furnishings on a rental basis.

Cathy Wiseley is owner of Stage It Wiseley.

Email cathy@stageitwiseley.com.

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

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June 2012

FOCUS ON HOME IMPROVEMENT/REAL ESTATE SERVICES

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Remodeling projects pay off short- and long-term

By Steve Bois, CEO, Rockford Area Realtors Many homeowners have found that remodeling their home can provide many benefits, whether the project involves adding a new room, updating a room or making simple home improvements. Your home is an important part of your life. A remodeling project can make your home more comfortable, more usable and more enjoyable. Improvements create quality of life and may help you sell your property sooner, which can mean improved capital value realized.

Purchasing a home is the largest investment most people make — and renovating it is a way to increase its value, whether you plan to sell your home or are just investing in it for the future. Although the value increase doesn’t offset the cost of most home improvements, small improvement projects can easily increase the value by thousands of dollars.

Five Best Remodeling Projects for the Money ■■ New Entry Few projects have the cost-effective impact of a new steel entry door. For less than $1,500, you can enhance your home’s curb appeal and recover a portion of your investment if you sell your home. Steel doors, however, lack the durability of wood and fiberglass exterior doors that cost twice as much.

National average cost: Replace an existing entry door with a 36-inchwide, half-glass, 20-gauge steel door, including new jambs and trim: $1,238 Value at resale: $903 Percent of investment recouped: 73 percent ■■ Attic Bedroom Converting attic space to a bedroom reaps big rewards, a way to add value without altering a home’s footprint. Planning is key — an architect or structural engineer can ensure there’s enough headroom, the floor joists are strong, and there’s emergency egress.

National average cost: Convert a 15 by 15-foot attic to a bedroom plus bath: $50,148 Value at resale: $36,346 Percent of investment recouped: 72.5 percent ■■ Kitchen Remodel For a kitchen that looks dated but the layout and size are fine, a minor kitchen remodel can work wonders without big expense. A low-cost facelift can be achieved by leaving the cabinet boxes in place, and adding new doors and drawer fronts, hardware, and an inexpensive but stylish laminate countertop.

New vinyl kitchen flooring and EnergyStar-rated appliances complete

value. You can get a new 16 by 7-foot steel double door for about $1,500. If you move up to an insulated garage door with glass window panels, you’ll pay about $3,000.

National average cost: Mid-range steel replacement garage double door: $1,512 Investment value at resale: $1,087 Percent of invest recouped: 71.9 percent

the transformation.

National average cost: Minor kitchen remodel: $19,588 Value at resale: $14,120 Percent of investment recouped: 72.1 percent

■■ Garage Door Garage doors account for up to 20 percent of a home’s façade — and a whole bunch of its curb appeal. A new garage door not only makes a home more appealing, it helps preserve its

Rockford realtors see significant local investment in home improvements Jayne Ragan, realtor/broker, Dickerson & Nieman This is a great topic and one that has certainly changed since the housing recession began. I believe that before the housing “crash,” homeowners did not need to have their homes in tiptop shape and staged to get a sale.

Homes in desirable areas were flying out the door if they were priced well. In the past few years, it has been extremely important for a homeowner to have any maintenance issues taken care of and the house in “move-in” condition.

I hire a stager for almost every home I list. Not only do we request items to be removed – “decluttered” – but also have rooms painted, carpets and countertops sometimes replaced, and we also “stage” each room with furnishings. Even lenders of foreclosures see this as a necessary tool, because when viewing foreclosed homes, we see new carpet and paint in many of the homes.

It still is a buyer’s market, and it’s now a beauty contest and a price war. I feel that homeowners that listen to suggestions and undertake repairs and staging tend to sell more quickly and for a higher price.

On average, the homeowner spends about $2,000. Of course, some homes have very little maintenance needed, and it’s just a matter of moving furnishings around.

I don’t think this is a fad. Especially with HGTV, more and more sellers understand the need to do home improvements and listen to the stager.

Beth Turek, realtor/broker, Century 21 Affiliated How has the selling tool of home improvements changed since the

housing recession began? Many home improvements will not recoup the cost in the eventual sale price.

Sellers need to be careful of overimproving for their area. I recently had a transaction where negotiations centered on whether or not a package of stainless steel appliances would stay in the home, versus being swapped for lesser appealing units.

The seller took it on the chin and left the nicer appliance package.

What percentage of home sellers undertake significant home improvements before they put their property up for sale?

Most improvements are done for the creature comfort of the current resident. Fewer sellers make improvements specifically to get their home sold. We do see sellers replace roofs often prior to listing.

What’s your guestimate on how much a home seller may spend on home improvements before putting their home on the market? Less than five percent of the home’s value.

What are some examples of unique home improvement embellishments that you’ve seen?

Yesterday I listed a home with more than $18,000 in concrete walkway improvements.

Is this push on home improvements a fad or will it have some staying power? You can only neglect a property for so long.

Eventually you have to put some money into it. The “Hey WOW” improvements like solid cherry staircases, exquisite flooring materials and custom draperies are nearly nonexistent now, but once were popular, back in 2004 to 2005. Granite counters continue to be a mainstay improvement at all price points, even homes below $150,000.

■■ Decking Americans love the out-of-doors, especially their own back yards.

That’s one reason decks remain popular home improvement projects.

They also increase living space at a reasonable cost. You can build a 16 by 20-foot wood deck for about $32 per square foot. That’s less than half the cost of new housing construction.

Plus, all the fresh air and sun are free.

National average cost: 16 by 20foot, pressure-treated wood deck: $10,350 Value at resale: $7,259 Percent of investment recouped: 70.1 percent Source: Houselogic.com The views expressed are those of Bois’, Ragan’s and Turek’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

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Guest Perspective INSIGHT

RFD flying high in 2012 Plans to expand parking, possibly a larger terminal Only six months into the year, the Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) has seen a significant amount of progress and celebrated major milestones.

In 2011, RFD’s passenger traffic was up nearly 16 percent over 2010. Passenger growth has continued in 2012. We reported a 14 percent increase in yearover-year passenger traffic for first quarter, 2012. March was the busiest month in RFD’s history, with 32,473 passengers using the facility. These numbers clearly demonstrate that RFD has viable routes and demand from regional passengers, which puts the airport in a great position to continue securing new destinations.

Our busy spring travel season was evident by looking at our parking lots, which consistently were 90 percent full.

Customers love our free parking, and we started running a free shuttle service during peak times. The need for RFD’s expansion also was noted by our state’s leadership. In March, Gov. Pat Quinn visited the airport to announce a $1 million parking expansion, creating more than 400 new parking spaces as well as dozens of new jobs when the construction starts.

Top Award in Air Cargo In January, RFD was chosen as one of only six North American airports to host the Boeing 787 Dream Tour. Shortly after the Dream Tour, Boeing selected RFD for a test flight of a 787 Dreamliner before it was delivered to a customer.

These opportunities reinforce RFD as a world-class airport that can handle any aircraft flying today.

Along with passenger growth, RFD also is seeing progress in cargo initiatives.

Earlier this year, Air Cargo World named RFD as the winner of the Air Cargo Excellence Award for a North American airport handling up to 399,999 tons of cargo annually. RFD scored higher than the other finalists -- Minneapolis/St. Paul, Ontario, Portland and Vancouver -- in all of the categories of performance, value, facilities and regulatory operations.

It’s clear that our investments in infrastructure are paying off with facilities and tools to accommodate any air cargo needs.

These accomplishments wouldn’t have been possible without the strong board leadership and dedicated team in place at RFD. Several staff members earned awards for great work. RFD was one of only 57 airports nationwide in 2011 to receive an ANTN Digicast Excellence in Airport Training award for federally mandated airport-specific and continuing education training completed in 2011.

For the 14th year, RFD received a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence

Mike Dunn in Financial Chicago Rockford Reporting for its International Airport comprehensive annual financial report from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada. Finally, the International Council of Air Shows (ICAS) recognized RFD for its promotion of the 2011 Rockford AirFest -- the sixth award RFD has received from ICAS for its AirFest marketing materials.

AirFest and Plans for Expansion We’re wrapping up AirFest on June 2 to 3, the big event, made even bigger by bringing in some large and rare aircraft that are huge crowd pleasers. This year, we pay tribute to the U.S. Air Force and host the B-52 for its 60th anniversary.

Rounding out our high-flying celebration are crowd favorites U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.

AirFest is an economic generator and improves the quality of life in the region by providing first-class, affordable entertainment for area residents. This year we are donating 6,900 tickets to students in area elementary schools.

Through our annual Honoring Heroes program, we are providing a VIP experience, recognizing area military and civilian heroes at the event. Economically, AirFest generates a significant amount of local tourism dollars from the thousands of visitors who come to our community. It also provides an opportunity to show off the airport facilities to potential cargo and passenger airline customers.

We’re not resting. We have a very busy 12 months planned for capital improvement and expansion projects.

These projects will generate immediate jobs through construction trades, and long-term, high-paying positions through additional business the finished projects will attract.

Our strong passenger growth has made it clear that along with more parking, we need a larger terminal. We are looking into a possible terminal expansion to accommodate current and future passenger growth. We also are starting the first phase of our runway reconstruction project soon. In coming months, you will hear additional information about these capital projects. We’ve gotten off to a great start in 2012 and look forward to the new opportunities to expand and have an even greater impact in the region.

Mike Dunn is director of Chicago Rockford International Airport.

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

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

June 2012

Bringing our schools into the 21st century Upgrades to buildings, technology Think for a moment about how much has changed in the past 50 years.

Even the past 20 years have brought revolutionary changes to our society. Cell phones, computers, the Internet — there’s technology behind nearly everything we do today, especially in the business environment.

Unfortunately, our children are taught in buildings that are decades old and built to accommodate teaching and learning styles at that time. When the buildings were constructed, the only thing in a classroom that needed to be plugged in was an overhead projector, and two electrical outlets were more than enough. Due to grant-funded technology upgrades made last summer, all of the classrooms in RPS 205 now have smart boards which have revolutionized the way students learn and teachers teach. Some classrooms have learning centers with headphones, many have computer stations and labs, and TV sets broadcast news and other educational programming. Some of our classrooms use multiple extension cords to try to accommodate all of today’s technological needs, which are not efficient or the safest solution.

One of our “Readiness Rocks” initiatives is to create 21st Century Learning Environments at all schools throughout the district. In order to do that, we must first know the current condition of each facility. In October, 2011, a committee was formed to evaluate the current condition of RPS District 205 facilities. The committee, made up of representatives from the community, along with parents, teachers and administrators, collected feedback from the public through 10,000 surveys and 10 community meetings. The result is a “10Year Facilities Master Plan,” showing us where we stand today and what we need to do to move forward.

The plan distinguishes several main points we must address to bring our schools into the 21st century:

Technological Capabilities According to the U.S. Department of Labor, 65 percent of today’s grade school children will end up in a job that hasn’t been created yet. As I mentioned before, our learning environments are built for the past. Sixty-nine percent of school facilities are more than 50 years old. Walker Elementary just celebrated its 100-year anniversary! Our classroom technology is outdated, and our facilities are not in the condition to handle the much-needed updating. How can we prepare our children for the future when they are learning in the past?

Efficiency With age comes inefficiency. Many schools are equipped with original windows, which make them very difficult to keep warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Three schools in the district, East High School and West and Lincoln Middle Schools, still have the original boilers from the 1930s, along with original windows. As a result, they account for 25 percent of natural gas costs for the district.

Imagine the savings we’d experience by updating those schools! Upgrades to more efficient equipment across the district will save us even more.

Safety The safety of our students is a top priority at all schools and another issue addressed in the plan. A large percentage of schools have internal offices with no observation of outside visitors or in-school activities. Being aware of what is going on around and throughout a school is key to maintaining a safe learning environment.

Many of the recommendations in the plan would reconfigure schools to give administrators more visibility of school activity.

Storage is another issue tied to safety that needs to be addressed. A lack of proper storage turns classrooms into closets and hallways into obstacle courses.

In case of an emergency, that lack of storage could lead to a more dangerous situation.

Accessibility To educate all children, our schools must be accessible to all children, including those with disabilities. One of the priorities of the plan is to bring schools up to standards in the Americans With Disabilities Act. A question when we start talking about major facility improvements is cost. It will take an estimated $150 to 200 million over 10 years to complete all recommended upgrades. We are exploring all funding options that do not involve any increase in the current tax rate. That includes the use of some of our reserve funds, possible state funding and issuing bonds.

Every student deserves to learn in a safe and productive environment, and it is our job to do whatever it takes to make that happen.

Dr. Robert Willis is interim superintendent of Rockford Public Schools.

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

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Guest Perspective INSIGHT

Marketing. It’s not “just” sales or advertising

From bikers to soccer teams; They spent $300 million here Thank you to the more than 350 people who attended the RACVB annual breakfast meeting May 8 at Giovanni’s Restaurant & Convention Center.

Feedback from attendees was that they learned that tourism is a very broad industry, attracting pre-teen soccer players to middle-aged Harley Davidson bikers; that the community’s success depends on a wide range of people and interests.

That’s a pretty good takeaway message.

Staying with that thought, let me tell you about the most recent individuals whom we inducted into our Tourism Hall of Fame at the annual meeting. These inductees represent the rich variety of what our community offers to travelers from around the world and across the country, as well as the depth and breath of devoted volunteers and passionate businesspeople whose sites and attractions help make the Rockford area unique.

Hall of Fame Inductees Hugh and Jody Deery of the Rockford Speedway Inducted by Mayor Darryl Lindberg, City of Loves Park, we learned that the Rockford Speedway is the only racetrack sanctioned by NASCAR in Illinois.

Thanks to the Deerys, the Speedway became a nationally known facility, giving starts to people who became big names in racing and NASCAR. Before Hugh Deery passed away in 1984, he saw his dream come true.

Rockford Speedway became known as Mid-America’s finest racetrack and one of the most family-friendly entertainment venues. Jody carried on that innovative operating style and successfully manages the business today. Today, in its 65th anniversary year, the Rockford Speedway welcomes 115,000 visitors annually, many of them from outside the region.

The Kegel Family, Kegel HarleyDavidson of Rockford RACVB board member and Cliffbreakers General Manager Dwight Hopfauf nominated and inducted the Kegel brothers, Karl and Mark. Kegel Harley-Davidson celebrates its 100th anniversary year of being in business this year. In 1998 Dealernews, a motorcycle industry magazine, named them the best store in the country. Karl and Mark are the third generation of family members in the business. And, there are fourth generation Kegels working there, too.

Last year Rockford hosted the Illinois H.O.G. Rally for the first time, the Harley Owners Group. The event brought 2,000 motorcyclists to Rockford who spent about $600,000 here. We hope to host another H.O.G. Rally soon. Thank you,

John Groh Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Kegel family, for helping to make the Rockford area a destination with your store, diner and great reputation.

Bill Johnson, RACVB Host/Guide Volunteer for 20-Plus Years Founding RACVB executive director Wendy Perks Fisher did the honors of introducing Bill Johnson. She told how at a moment’s notice he would guide and host visiting VIPs and everyday visitors around the Rockford area cheerfully and graciously.

Bill was a strong proponent of establishing a sister city relationship with a Swedish city. In fact he chaired the Sister City committee. Back in 1985 not many folks thought that Rockford could be a destination for any one other than industrial customers. But Bill knew from the beginning of the RACVB’s founding that the Rockford region had many surprises and pleasures for visitors.

Wendy Perks Fisher Fund for Innovation The RACVB Board of Directors announced the establishment of the Wendy Perks Fisher Fund for Innovation.

The strategy is to encourage more people to move forward with bold, creative ideas that will entertain, enlighten or energize people. Wendy was the founding executive director of the RACVB until her retirement in 2006.

Keynote Speaker Encouraged Us to Take Risks and Innovate Scott Provancher, president of the Arts & Science Council of Charlotte North Carolina, gave a stimulating keynote speech on how the arts and other industries can be an economic engine for communities. He encouraged us to seek and leverage existing strengths in unconventional, simple ways. I encourage you to visit artsandscience.org and power2give.org.

We Thank Our Sponsors Many thanks to our generous sponsors of our annual meeting. Frequent Flyer Sponsor Northwest Bank; Adventure sponsors LaMonica Beverages, Courtyard Marriott, Williams-Manny, Rockford Bank and Trust, Hilton Garden Inn and GrahamSpencer.

John Groh is president/CEO of the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. Contact him at jgroh@gorockford.com.

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

There is confusion about what “marketing” really is. Many people don’t see the difference between sales, advertising and marketing. Effective marketers focus on meeting the needs and objectives of target customers. Sales matches customer needs with the product or service it’s selling. Advertising focuses on how the critical information on the product or service gets before the customer.

Marketing today takes on a “total customer focus” that requires input from the entire organization. It begins at the “strategic” level. Marketing strategy is the process that enables an organization to concentrate its limited resources on the greatest opportunities to meet overall strategy, increase sales, and achieve a sustainable competitive advantage.

Creating a “viable” strategy is the first step in defining the purpose of the organization, regardless of whether it is a manufacturer of a product, a provider of a service, or an idea.

Marketing entails several functions: ■■ Developing the products or services through design and research that customers in the target market want.

■■ Pricing the products or services correctly for the target market.

■■ Making the products or services readily available to the customers when and where they demand it.

Promoting the product or service, which if done correctly, not only convinces customers that the product or service is preferable to the competition.

Effective marketing not only increases sales, it leads to the creation of a more valuable asset -- a “recognized brand” -- something you might want to sell some day. It goes beyond short-term financial reasons. If your long-term vision is building a “sustainable” entity or finding investors to buy your company’s product, expertise, technology or share of the market, you must think strategically about marketing.

Seven Keys to Marketing Strategy 1. Marketing creates awareness.

A strategic marketing plan gets your messaging out to the right target audience, consistently and over time, and creates the required awareness to turn a prospect into a customer.

2. Preferred brands command a premium price – short- and long-term.

Go through the process of determining your company’s unique value proposition -- “differentiation.” Start purposefully communicating that to the marketplace -- “promotion.” As your customers and industries begin to recognize your company -- “brand” -- as the preferred choice for a specific product or service, you can adjust your pricing more profitably.

3. Happy customers not only send

referrals, they create real Clarence Harper value. A good Rockford College percentage of new business comes through referrals from satisfied customers. It also takes a marketing strategy that positions your company in the minds of your target audience as the market leader in overall customer satisfaction.

4. Planned marketing communications create a system that can be replicated. Budgets are allocated, tactics agreed upon, responsibilities delegated and contracts negotiated. The result is continued momentum in building brand awareness and credibility, and a rather flawless execution.

5. Repeat revenue streams ensure a profit now and later. A smart marketing strategy not only focuses on a company’s core market and value proposition, it also finds ways to build multiple channels for recurring revenue. Smart marketers look for ways to diversify their offerings, especially in areas where repeat sales require little to no effort along with an exemplary customer service approach.

6. Marketing must be a long-term investment. Today’s upper management is less concerned with who you know and what clubs you belong to. They are more interested in how you’re going to help them meet their objectives and solve their problems. Consistent and persistent messaging, going to an integrated mix of contact points with your customers and prospects, is an investment in your company’s long-term stability and value.

7. Make your employees “brand ambassadors” to sell your company to customers and potential buyers.

Marketing is not just something you do “outside” of your company. In order to create a powerful image and value for your business, the first group you have to convince is your employees. Every employee must understand how his or her position contributes to the company promise and be motivated to carry it out.

Marketing is a long-term investment.

Make sure you and your organization understand the total concept of marketing.

You will not create a recognizable brand without it. You will not develop a stable, growing business without it. You will not create “brand ambassadors” among your employees without it. You will not create a company that has obvious value to a future potential buyer without it.

Marketing is a total company commitment to the organization’s strategy.

Clarence Harper is an assistant professor of business at Rockford College.

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

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

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June 2012

Rockford Country Club

ABOUT ROCKFORD GOLFS! For Rockford business people, golf and golf playdays are part of businessrecreational activity for networking with clients and prospective customers.

Starting with the April issue, we have been featuring member golf courses as well as golf, playday, and networking tips from the local professionals.

For advertising opportunities in this section, contact Lynette Jacques at 815-316-4317.

Golf with a spectacular view

By Paul Anthony Arco One of the most endearing qualities about the golf course at the Rockford Country Club (RCC) is its close proximity to the Rock River, which runs along Nos. 6 through 9.

“There is a mystique about playing RCC,” said Ryan Niffenegger, the club’s head golf professional and PGA Head Professional. “It’s very tight, not very long and it’s walkable. But our biggest attraction is the river. Following a round, golfers come in and talk about the fantastic view.”

Mike Tulley joined RCC in the mid 1970s, mainly for the golf. “I love this golf course,” said Tulley, president of the Rockford Pro-Am. “It’s a traditional course that’s fun to play every day. I love the serenity of being so close to the river. It’s so peaceful. I’ve enjoyed my 40 years here.”

But the stunning golf course isn’t the only thing that matters at RCC. Located on Rockford’s west side, RCC has tennis facilities, skeet shooting during the winter months and an Olympicsized swimming pool. “Dad can play golf in the morning and hang out with the kids by the pool in the afternoon,” Niffenegger said.

For dining, there’s the recently renovated Grill Room, as well as the main dining room, and a patio deck, which overlooks the river. There are 165 golf members and 100 social members at RCC. “What makes us unique is the fact that we have families who are second and third generation members,” said Niffenegger. “And we are family oriented. To win people over, you have to be all encompassing and offer amenities for everyone.”

The original golf course at RCC was designed in 1899 as a nine-hole course

by Herbert James (H.J.) Tweedie. The first professional instructor was Robert B. Bolton, who came from the Dallas Golf Club. On June 12, 1900, a newly built clubhouse was opened where members held their first reception. Four years ago, the clubhouse underwent a major renovation. Space was created for new offices, bag area and storage space, as well as upgrades to the locker facilities.

RCC was home to the Rockford Pro-Am from 1980 to 1995. Local golf fans were treated to watching several celebrities play golf during those years.

The 18th hole at Rockford Country Club Bob Hope’s appearance in 1982 drew a crowd of 12,000 and golfing legend Arnold Palmer was greeted by 15,000 people four years later.

The signature hole at RCC is the par 3 No. 6. From the white tees it can play anywhere from 130 yards to 150 yards. “Visually it can be intimidating,” Niffenegger said. “You have to hit over water with the backdrop of the river.

You can’t see how much room you have from the back of the green to the river and that plays with the golfer’s mind. You have to hit an accurate shot because out of bounds is only 20 feet from the green.”

In 2002, Niffenegger, a Marengo native, moved to Scottsdale, Ariz., where he spent five years working for Desert Mountain, a member-

owned, private community featuring six Championship Jack Nicklaus golf courses. “For five years, I did everything from cleaning clubs to handling bags,” he said. “That experience helped me with attention to detail.”

Niffenegger, who serves as president of the local First Tee program, joined RCC as an assistant golf pro in 2007 and was named head pro this year.

One of his first priorities is reaching more young golfers. Currently, there are 35 children, between the ages of 5 and 17, enrolled in the club’s junior golf program. “We are focused on the teaching aspect of the game,” he said.

“We can make it fun, but we need to get back to teaching the fundamentals and getting the kids on the course.”

RCC has a caddie program that

Divots Never Lie While you practice and play, pay close attention to your divots. Your divots will tell you what direction the club is traveling through impact, as well as, how steep or shallow your swing is. If your divots are not pointing down the target line, place a tee about one foot in front of the ball on the target line. As you swing the club down I want you to feel like your swinging towards the tee or down the target line. This will allow you to start the ball on line while creating extension through the ball.

You can use this drill while playing, just pick an old divot or piece of grass and feel like you swing towards it.

Ryan Niffenegger, Head Golf Professional, PGA Head Professional

runs from May through August. The program accepts 30 caddies each year, ranging in age from 14 to 19. Caddies are eligible for the Evans Scholarship, a one-year grant which covers college tuition and housing. The program, said Niffenegger, benefits the participants in many ways. “They are in a safe environment and get to make connections with some of the most prominent people in Rockford,” he said. “Plus it’s a great summer job.”

For club members, RCC holds two special events each summer. This year, the club held a Beach Boys Open, a non-competitive alternateshot scramble and themed-dinner, in May, and a night golf event is scheduled for July.

RCC plays host to a number of charitable golf events each year, for organizations such as Northern Illinois Hospice, Gigi’s Playhouse, Walter Lawson Children’s Home and the Golden Apple Foundation.

One of the largest events is the Rockford Memorial Development Foundation Ambassadors Golf Play Day. “We have everything we need to make our day of golf fantastic – the beautiful course, an important cause to support, and the RCC staff that helps us get it all done,” said Michelle Gorham, CFRE, annual giving director, Rockford Memorial Development Foundation. “Our golfers love the food and the lovely venue along the Rock River and we appreciate the entire staff. Ryan Niffenegger and the staff in the clubhouse work really hard to make sure we have a successful fundraising event and a lot of fun.”

ROCKFORD COUNTRY CLUB 2500 Oxford St., Rockford 815-962-0948 www.rockfordcountryclub.com

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theVoice rockfordchamber.com

IGNITE

Young Professionals

United Way’s Day of Action IGNITE partners to help create proficient readers

Jazz Keyes IGNITE

In recent years, mentoring has emerged as an effective response to the dilemma presented by at-risk youth.

With a focused desire to assist in the restoration of our community, IGNITE is proud to say; we have taken an active role in rebuilding our community by serving as mentors to Rockford’s next generation of leaders.

With the goal of reconstruction in mind, IGNITE enthusiastically partnered with United Way in hopes that together we can begin laying the foundation for brighter futures.

There is no better way to prepare our youth for excellence than to ensure that they are educated and proficient readers. United Way’s powerful IREAD initiative does just that!

Through this early-grade reading initiative, I READ matches volunteer reading mentors with kindergarten students and prepares students to read proficiently by 4th grade.

Volunteers tutor up to three students each week during the school day and are encouraged to remain with their students through 3rd grade.

Here’s how you can help: Join United Way on the National Day of Action and sign up to be a reading mentor.

reading at grade level by the fourth grade.

High school dropouts are years in the making. Students who lag behind in reading by 4th grade are more likely than their peers to drop out of high school.

Academic difficulties in the early years too often lead to disengagement from school and eventual dropout. Dropouts, in turn, are more likely to be unemployed or underemployed and to end up on welfare or in prison.

Children who are read to and who have their own books are more likely to succeed in school, and life. Research has shown that reading aloud to children is the single most important activity for building the knowledge required for eventual success in reading.

Experts say engaging our children — meeting them where they are, in their own learning style — is critical. Throughout their school careers, connecting them with as many well-trained, supportive adults as possible can help nurture their strengths and make sure help is directed where it is needed most.

On June 21, 2012, United Way of Rock River Valley will take action to provide children with the learning opportunities they need at a young age to learn, grow and thrive by recruiting caring volunteers to become reading mentors.

What is the National Day of Action?

United Way Early Grade Reading Initiative

On June 21, the longest day of the year, United Way’s National Day of Action mobilizes and inspires our community to seek ways to Advance the Common Good on one day. The Day of Action mobilizes volunteers and inspires people to channel their passion into lifelong action. The Day of Action helps people make the connection between their efforts to improve education and how those efforts will lead to a stronger community.

The vision of hundreds of people, volunteering on one Day of Action, and being inspired to take action on other days throughout the year is powerful.

This is how we LIVE UNITED. United Way’s National Day of Action provides a high visibility way for United Way of Rock River Valley to launch its local initiative to boost early grade reading and recruit the people who can help us take action to achieve our strategic goals.

United Way will partner with the Rockford and Harlem school districts to train community volunteers as Reading Mentors. These mentors will be matched with students until they complete third grade. Mentors will tutor one to three kindergarten students in reading for 20 minutes per student for as little as one hour per week. Mentors will meet with the students during the school day in the classroom or other convenient location.

The initiative will target the lowest readers indicated by kindergarten baseline data. In the second year, a new group of volunteers begin with incoming kindergartners as current mentors “roll up.” Volunteers will meet with district staff in July and August and receive training in September. All volunteers will be required to pass a background check.

Mobilize. Inspire. Advance the Common Good.

Each One Teach One.

Why Early Grade Reading?

The Rockford public schools lag significantly behind the Illinois state average when it applies to students

Jazz Keyes is executive director of IGNITE Young Professionals. Visit www. igniterockford.com.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

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June 2012

Members Caught on Digital ON DIGITAL

The Rockford Chamber Power Advantage Network spent the morning of May 12 spreading two semi-truck loads of mulch over the Brown Park playground for the Rockford Park District.

Pictured are Jan and John Bowman, Yvonne Peterson, Emily Austin Hahn, Teri Watts and Scott Dobbs. Not pictured, the morning crew was Dr. Cory Theile, Kathy Velasco, Teresa Leach, and Kurt and Leyton Berry.

SwingnSplash held a ribbon cutting on May 3 at 2245 N. Central Ave., in Rockford.

PR Etc., Inc., held a ribbon cutting and open house on May 10 at its new space at 120 W. State St., Ste. 305, in Rockford. The firm celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2012.

Wesley Willows, Suites II held a ribbon cutting on May 16 at 4141 N. Rockton Ave., in Rockford.

In Home Services, Inc., held a ribbon cutting on May 17 at 7130 Crimson Ridge Road, Rockford, for the Active Health Center, an onsite, outpatient therapy clinic providing care for seniors with a high-end spa feel.

Our Walk-In Closet, a resale and consignment boutique at 5846 E. State St., in Rockford, held a ribbon cutting on May 18.

Get to Know Your Ambassadors Name: Anthony Mencarini Company: PIP Printing and Marketing Services Position: Printing and Marketing Consultant How long have you been an Ambassador?

About three years

Rockford Mass Transit District held a ribbon cutting/grand opening for its East Side Transfer Center at 725 Lyford Road, Rockford, on May 22. Ann L. Schneider, Illinois Department of Transportation Secretary, and Lawrence J. Morrissey, Rockford Mayor, cut the ribbon.

What do you like most about being an Ambassador? What I like most is the people I meet, and the friends I make. Being an ambassador has connected me to the business community and allowed me to be in direct contact with people that I may have not met if it were not for this group. I feel honored and privileged to have the opportunity to be part of a group that helps the Rockford business community. It gives me a sense of worth to give back to our community. Thank you for this opportunity!

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Community Events COMMUNITY Friday, June 1 Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Dr., Rockford, presents its 36th annual Glitzy Garage Sale, June 1 to 3. Friday/ Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bargain Sunday-$4 clothing per bag, 9 to 11 a.m.; $4 anything in a bag, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. All else half price. Call 815877-0118 or visit www.womanspacerockford.org.

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford, hosts its 19th annual Garden Fair, June 1 to 3.

Friday, noon to 8 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit klehm.org or call 815-965-8146.

Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 415 N. Church St., presents Avalon String Quartet Concert, “Rasumovsky Gets The Last Word,” 7 p.m. Visit www.mendelssohnpac.org or call 815-964-9713.

Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful hosts a Crayon Recycling Drive, June 1 to 15, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to noon, Roscoe Recycling Center. Visit www.knib.org.

Saturday, June 2 Rockford Public Library hosts its Summer Reading Club Kick-Off Party, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., main library parking lot C, 215 N. Wyman St. Bouncy tents, rock climbing wall, games, free t-shirts for kids. Call 815-965-7606.

Rockford Park District hosts a free Tennis Summer Kick-Off at Guilford Tennis Center, 5702 Spring Creek Road, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 815-9627469, 815-987-8800 or visit www. rockfordparkdistrict.org/tennis.

The Natural Land Institute presents Wine at the Wetland, 3 to 6 p.m., Nygren Wetland Preserve, 3190 W. Rockton Road. For tickets visit www.

NaturalLand.org, 320 S. Third St., or 815-964-6666.

Byron Forest Preserve District hosts a Geocaching Trip to Wisconsin from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Meet at Jarrett Center. Call 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Tuesday, June 5 QCi Restoration presents an Ethics course for state of Illinois continuing education requirements, 9 a.m. to noon, 1155 Bowes Road, Elgin. Free. Snacks, lunch, facility tour. To register email

“Mark Twain” and famous Americans “Buffalo Bill Cody” (shown) and “Annie Oakley” make appearances at Midway Village Museum’s 1900 America: Chautauqua Celebration on June 9 and 10.

Angela Falese at angelaf@qcirestoration. com or call 847-738-1805.

Wednesday, June 6 The Northern Illinois Committee on Education presents its Dialogue for Change Spring 2012 Series, 5:15 p.m., RPS #205 Administration Building, 501 Seventh St., Rockford.

Light supper, discussion on high school redesign. Seating limited.

Register at niceconference.org. Call Chris at 815-636-3040.

Starlight Theatre at Rock Valley College debuts with Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.

Other productions in June: Little Women, Into the Woods and 9 to 5: the Musical. Visit rvcstarlight.com or call 815-921-2160.

IMEC kicks off Quality Essentials training, an eight-week series on fundamental Quality Management System concepts, in the NIU Rockford executive classroom, 8500 E. State St. Contact Amy Fitzgerald at afitzgerald@imec.org or 309-6772977.

Thursday, June 7 Healing Pathways-Cancer Resource Center hosts a Celebrity Bartender Event, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., MashUp in Edgebook Center. No entrance fee. Contact 815-395-5649 or info@healingpathwayscrc.org.

Friday, June 8 Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center presents an Avalon String Quartet concert, 7 p.m., 415 N. Church St.,

Rockford. Call 815-964-9713 or www. mendelssohnpac.org.

serve. Register at 815-965-3795 or programs@goodwillni.org.

Rockford Symphony Orchestra and Rockford Chamber’s Leadership Rockford hosts RSO on Tap, a fundraiser with beer tastings and live jazz, 7 to 10 p.m., Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road.

Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra Sterling String Quartet and local musicians Joel Ross, Karl Seigfried, Jack Brand and Ken Stein; souvenir tasting glass, dinner by Mary’s Market.

Register at www.rockfordsymphony. com or call 815-965-0049 by June 1.

Savant Capital Management presents What’s Next: Planning for a Successful Retirement at 6:15 p.m., 7202 Argus Dr., Rockford. Call 815227-0300.

Saturday, June 9 Edgebrook, 1601 N. Alpine Road, presents its free, fourth-annual Arts & Crafts Exhibit, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., featuring the Cirque Du Soleil “Quidam” cast and crew from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. More than 50 artists and vendors. Call 815-226-0212 or visit edgebrookshops.com.

Rockford Park District’s Atwood Center in Seth B. Atwood Park hosts Stewardship Saturday, 9 to 11 a.m. Citizens invited to pitch in with maintenance. For groups of five or more, call 815-874-7576 in advance.

Visit www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/ atwood.

Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful hosts a Medication Collection, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Machesney Park Mall and other sites from 9 a.m. to noon.

Visit www.knib.org.

Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, presents 1900 America: Chautauqua Celebration, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., June 9 and 10.

Visit www.midwayvillage.com or call 815-397-9112.

Healing Pathways-Cancer Resource Center presents the second-annual Bow Tie (1.5mile) March, honoring men who are cancer survivors, Keeling-Puri Peace Plaza. Register at 8 a.m.; march at 9 a.m. Register in advance at www.healingpathwayscrc. org. Call 815-395-5649 or info@ healingpathwayscrc.org.

Sunday, June 10 Ethnic Heritage Museum, 1129 S. Main St., Rockford, presents its Father of the Year Celebration, honoring a father in each gallery.

Call 815 962-7402 or visit www. ethnicheritagemuseum.org. Open 2 to 4 p.m., Sundays.

Monday, June 11 Byron Forest Preserve District hosts an evening DNR Hunter Education Course, June 11, 13, 15 at Jarrett Center. Call 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Tuesday, June 12 Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois presents Good Dollars and Sense, Tuesdays and Thursdays, June 12 to 28. Sessions are 10 a.m. to noon at Joyner Neighborhood Resource Center, 1401 W. State St., Rockford; or 6 to 8 p.m., at Goodwill’s Mission Services Center, 615 N. Longwood St., Rockford. First-come, first-

Aldeen Men’s Golf Association hosts its annual free “Take Aim at Your Health” golf wellness night, 4:30 to 8:30 p.m., Rockford Park District’s Aldeen Practice Centre, 1902 Reid Farm Road. Free health screenings, golf practice specials, swing analysis.

815-282-GOLF.

Wednesday, June 13 SVA presents an Executive Briefing Webinar, “Navigating the Minefield: Aligning Business Development Strategy & Technology Tools,” 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., or June 19, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Register at www.sva.com/ executivebriefing.

Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence at Rockford College presents a Summer Shortz talk, 8 to 9:30 a.m., on the Colman Library patio. Rena Cotsones, NIU-Rockford, presents Perspectives on Leadership from Women Leaders. Register by June 6 at 815-394-4384.

Thursday, June 14 Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center presents Jazz at Emerson Concert-Carl Cole, piano/vocal, 5:30 p.m., Emerson House, 420 N. Main St., Rockford. Visit www.mendelssohnpac. org or call 815-964-9713.

Friday, June 15 Rockford Public Library welcomes Merrill Markoe for a free Author Visit, 7 to 8 p.m., Maddox Theater, Rockford College. Markoe will share humorous reflections on dog ownership.

Registration not required. Call 815965-7606.

Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful hosts a Photography Contest, June 15 to July 31. Visit www.knib.org for details.

Winnebago County CASA celebrates 25 years at Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, 6 p.m. CASAs will be honored. Several will speak on their experiences. Paul Logli emcees. Call 815-319-6880 or visit www.winnebagocountycasa.org.

Saturday, June 16 Rockford Public Library presents Jazz in June, 5 to 7 p.m., Sullivan Theater, 118 N. Main St. Evening of jazz in celebration of Black Music Month. Call 815-965-7606.

Monday, June 18 Rockford RiverHawks presents Faith Night, 7:05 p.m., RiverHawks Stadium, 4503 Interstate Blvd., Loves Park.

Visit www.rockfordriverhawks.com, facebook.com/RockfordRiverhawks or Twitter @RockRiverHawks.

Tuesday, June 19 Rockford Area SHRM presents Managing the Accommodation Process in Your Workplace with Robin Jones, director and instructor,

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

June 2012

Community Events (cont.)

UIC, 11 a.m. to noon, NIU-Rockford, 8500 E. State St. Lunch at noon.

Register at www.rashrm.org.

Wednesday, June 20 Rockford Area SHRM presents its Jobapalooza Career Fair, noon to 4 p.m., Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, 200 S. Bell School, Rockford.

Visit www.rashrm.org.

Sixth-annual Stateline FastPitch Competition, 5:30 p.m., NIU-Rockford, 8500 E. State St. Visit eigerlab.org/ events.html or call 815-921-2054.

Byron Forest Preserve District hosts a Lake Erie Walleye Trip, June 20 to 22. Meet at Jarrett Center at 9 a.m. Call 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Thursday, June 21 Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center presents a Wine Tasting Benefit, 6 p.m., Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford. For tickets visit www.mendelssohnpac.org or call 815-964-9713.

Friday, June 22 Rockford Art Museum presents “Into the Light: Illinois Glass” exhibition, June 22 to Oct. 21. Call 815-968-2787 or visit www.rockfordartmuseum.org.

Saturday, June 23 La Voz Latina hosts its first Soccer Tournament, June 23 to 24, Sportscore One, Rockford. Includes Men’s and Women’s Divisions - A & B and a Corporate Team Division.

Proceeds benefit La Voz Latina.

Register at www.lavozlatina-rkfd.org or call 815-965-5784 by June 8.

The eighth-annual N & JT “John A. Terranova, Sr.” Charity Mixed Couples Bocce Ball Tournament at St. Ambrogio Society bocce courts and Jerry Armstrong Show to benefit Rockford MELD and St. Anthony of Padua Church. Register by June 11. Call 815-282-6530 or visit www. helpingkidsandfamilies.org.

Monday, June 25 Center for Sight & Hearing hosts its seventh-annual Gerald Broski Golf Fundraiser at Forest Hills Country Club. Call Lorena Merrick, 815-332-6800, or visit www. centerforsighthearing.org.

Wednesday, June 27 Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence presents Leadership Café: Mission-Focused Governance, noon at Burpee Center, Rockford College, 5050 E. State St. Brown bag encouraged. Beverage provided. RSVP at least five days prior at 815-394-4384 or visit www.rockford.edu/?NICNE.

Saturday, June 30 Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, debuts its Many Faces, One Community immersive gallery of Rockford’s immigrant experiences, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Opening of train depot and furniture factory. Call 815-397-9112 or visit www.midwayvillage.com.

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Business Briefs BUSINESS BRIEFS Forward Equity Marketing Group, Inc., was hired to develop websites for Drummond Window Cleaning Services, Goestar Mechanical, Rockton Collision Center, and The Garden’s On Prairie Rose.

All 21 Rockford Orthopedic Associates, Ltd., orthopedic physicians were recognized by the Centers of Medicare & Medicaid Services for meeting stringent quality, efficiency and patient safety objectives through meaningful use of an electronic health records system.

Stateline World Trade Association gave 2012 International Trade Awards to Forest City Gear and Fairbanks Morse Engine for significant growth through international trade.

Rockford was featured as a familyfriendly designation in the Chicago Sun Times newspaper Weekend section on April 25, in an article originating from the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, “Area day trips a great family adventure.”

The Rockford Park District presented grants totaling $45,500 to 26 local organizations that support recreation programming in 2012, including Booker Washington Center, Boys and Girls Club of Rockford, YMCA of Rock River Valley, La Voz Latina and Rockford Area Lutheran Ministries.

Savant Capital Management and The Monitor Group, two independent fee-only RIAs, announced the strategic combination of their firms, to be called Savant Capital, LLC; managing more than $2.7 billion in assets, and with 10 offices in Illinois, Wisconsin, Virginia and Florida, and corporate headquarters in Rockford.

Keith Country Day School’s middle school scholastic bowl team clinched its first-ever sectional championship after defeating Brimfield School by more than 200 points in the title match.

The Cougars went 3-0 in the sectionals to advance to the Illinois Elementary School Association state finals.

The Chicago Rockford International Airport for the 14th year received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada for its comprehensive annual financial report.

SwedishAmerican Hospital is the first facility in northern Illinois to offer anterior approach hip replacements — a tissue-sparing alternative to traditional hip replacements -- aimed at decreasing pain, encouraging faster recovery and improving mobility.

Alpine Bank announced its support of the revised 2011 Home Affordable Refinance Program guidelines, with provisions that allow homeowners to refinance a Freddie Mac- or Fannie Mae-backed mortgage, regardless of how much the value of their home has declined. The program previously was limited to homeowners who owed up to 125 percent of their home’s value.

KMK Media Group, Inc., created a website at www.code1aviation. com for the Florida-based military plane restoration company, Code 1 Aviation, with information on its warbird

More than 900 people attended Red Mango’s grand opening event on April 9 in Machesney Park, featuring free frozen yogurt. repairing and restoring capabilities.

KMK redesigned the logo for Growth Dimensions, an economic development non-profit in Boone County.

Arthritis Foundation partnered with Argyle Marketing to complete a registration website for its Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis covering Rockford and Freeport, with sponsor and donor information as well as online registration and tracking for the event.

The 2012 Rosecrance Foundation benefit in April drew a record attendance of 830 and raised a record $480,000 for the Kinley Charity Care Fund to provide services to clients who need financial assistance for treatment of substance use and mental health disorders.

Red Mango of Machesney Park customers donated $650 to Anderson Packaging Inc.’s Tracy Barr Project E.L.L.F-“Enriching the Lives of the Less Fortunate” program, in exchange for free frozen yogurt, as part of Red Mango’s grand opening event on April 9 at 1093 W. Lane Road. Owner Paul Hornick and wife Betsy Hornick matched the donations to total $1,300.

Metrology Resource Group hired Argyle Marketing to develop a website promoting its services to prospective customers.

SwedishAmerican Health System announced plans to build and operate a free-standing outpatient cancer center in collaboration with UW Health and University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center. The center on 30 acres on North Bell School Road in Rockford will offer medical oncology, chemotherapy and infusion; advanced radiation therapy; and medical imaging.

Rock Valley College and TechWorks combined forces to apply for National Institute for Metalworking Skills, Inc., accreditation. NIMS is a nonprofit organization with skill standards to support quality in training programs that prepare metalworkers.

Rock Valley College Adult Education has partnered with Northwest Illinois Healthcare Collaborative to offer Bridge to Healthcare, a free, eight-week program to help community members obtain their GEDs and pursue further training in the healthcare field. Call 815921-2001.

The Kent Creek clean up hosted by the Natural Land Institute and Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Gardens on Earth Day, April 22, yielded more than 30 bags of trash and 25 bags of

recyclable aluminum, plastic and glass items, including several old tires and a grocery cart.

The Rockford Park District Jr. IceHogs Youth Hockey team won the 2012 Chi-Town Cup Tournament Series, beating the West Dundee Leafs 2 to 1 in overtime in West Dundee, Ill. Winnebago County Forest Preserve District’s A Guide to Bird-Watching in Winnebago County Forest Preserve won Best of Show for print communications at the Illinois Association of Park Districts’ Agency Showcase in Chicago in January.

Woodward, Inc., reported financial results for second quarter of fiscal 2012, with net sales of $468.8 million, an increase of 12 percent from $418.9 million in second quarter of last year.

The Rockford Park District radio show “Helping You Enjoy Life” airs from 7 to 8 a.m., every Saturday through Aug. 25 at 100.5 NTA FM. Hosted by NTA’s Dean Ervin, it can be heard online at www. nta.fm.

Courtyard by Marriott/Rockford completed a major renovation of its lobby, featuring the brand’s new Refreshing Business lobby concept, designed to give travelers the flexibility to work and socialize while on the road.

The National Recreation and Park Association chose Rockford Park District as one of four national finalists for the 2012 National Gold Medal Awards for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management for the population category of 100,000 to 250,000.

International lifeguard agency, Jeff Ellis and Associates, gave the lifeguard teams of the Rockford Park District Aquatics Department and Magic Waters Waterpark awards for outstanding performance in 2011.

In 2011, the Rockford Park District Foundation raised $4,828,151 in contributions, donated land and goods, and grants. The Rockford Park District partnered with Booker Washington Center and Patriots Gateway Center for affordable summer recreation youth programs, and with Rockford School District’s Summer Challenge for enrichment activities and tutoring.

Rock Valley College, continuing education department, graduated 10 in spring from the Highway Construction Careers Training Program, which increases access to highway construction jobs for minorities, women and disadvantaged individuals.

Riverside Community Bank launched a new Pink Ribbon Debit Card, with a portion of proceeds benefitting Crusader Community Health.

Rockford Spine Center was included on the Top 208 Spine Surgeons and Specialists to Know in 2012 by the annual Becker’s Orthopedic, Spine & Pain Management Review.

Barbara Olson Center of Hope staff members completed the first Direct Support Professional program at the Center of Hope mandated by the state of Illinois for direct care employees working in the social services sector.

Siena on Brendenwood received a grant from the City of Gardens for neighborhood beautification.

Riverside Community Bank announced plans to expand its office at 6855 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, by 4,000 square feet, to nearly 12,000 square feet.

Heritage Credit Union offers the new Pink Hope checking account, which lets members donate to the American Cancer Society for Breast Cancer Research. When a member uses their debit card, the transaction amount is rounded up to the nearest dollar and transferred into a Pink Hope donation account.

Caraotta Chiropractic Orthopedics P.C., staff are partnering with the American Cancer Society in the Winnebago County “Relay For Life” on June 22. For a $10 donation per person ($15 per family), specific services will be provided at no charge.

Appointments must be scheduled in advance at 815-398-4004.

Ethnic Heritage Museum opened the “Meet Fred Hutcherson, III” exhibit, on display until mid-September.

A long time Rockford resident, Hutcherson was featured in an article in the February, 2012 issue of Ebony magazine. He’s the son of the late Fred Hutcherson, Jr., the first AfricanAmerican pilot to fly across the Atlantic Ocean. The “Wandering Through Memory Lane” Italian Gallery exhibit also is open, through Nov. 11, 2012.

Keith Country Day School’s middle school scholastic bowl team clinched its first-ever sectional championship and advanced to the Illinois Elementary School Association state finals.

The Mill Foundation awarded more than $45,000 in grants to five local non-profit agencies helping disadvantaged children: Big Brothers Big Sisters, Winnebago County CASA, Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois, Blackhawk Area Council of Boy Scouts of America, and Rockford Day Nursery Early Learning Center.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

23

June 2012

Regional, National Indicators THE ECONOMY U.S. Indicators

Unemployment Rates—Region, State, Nation

April, 2012

Consumer Price Index

 0.3 percent

Unemployment Rate 8.1 percent

Mar 2012

Feb 2012

Mar 2011

Change/Mo. Change/Yr.

Rockford

11.7

12.9

13.4

q 1.2

q 1.7

Chicago

9.0

8.9

9.4

 0.1

q 0.4

Payroll Employment

 115,000

Illinois

9.0

9.4

9.6

q 0.4

q 0.6

Average Hourly Earnings

 $0.01

United States

8.4

8.7

9.2

q 0.3

q 0.8

Producer Price Index

q 0.2 percent

Employment Cost Index

 0.4 percent (first quarter, 2012)

Productivity

q 0.5 percent (first quarter, 2012)

U.S. Import Price Index

q 0.5 percent

U.S. Export Price Index

 0.4 percent

Source: U.S. Department of Employment Security

ANDERSON MCINNIS ARCHITECTS

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Midwest Manufacturing Output Unchanged The Chicago Fed Midwest Manufacturing Index (CFMMI) was unchanged in March, at a seasonally adjusted level of 92.2 (2007 = 100). Regional output in March rose 8.6 percent from a year earlier, and national output increased 5.0 percent. Updated April 30, 2012

Monthly Index

% Change

Jan 12

Feb 12

Mar 12

Mar 11 - Mar 12

Chicago Mfg. Index

90.8

92.2

92.2

 8.6

CFMMI-Auto

90.1

92.7

92.5

 14.2

CFMMI-Steel

89.1

91.0

90.9

 11.2

CFMMI-Machinery

90.2

91.4

91.9

 10.4

CFMMI-Resource

90.7

91.3

91.1

 2.6

National Index

94.9

95.7

95.5

 5.0

Source: Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago

Population Clocks As of May 20, 2012: U.S.

313,580,971 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

World 7,014,631,458

June 2012 Member Anniversaries Thank you to the members who celebrate their anniversaries with the Rockford Chamber in June, 2012.

40-YEAR MEMBERS

15-YEAR MEMBER

Building Systems, Inc. John Morrissey Accountants, Inc.

Howe Freightways, Inc.

25-YEAR MEMBERS

Bickford of Rockford Rockford Association for Minority Management Terracon, Inc.

Northern Illinois Chapter, National Electrical Contractors Association Samco Promotional Products Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office

20-YEAR MEMBERS ARCO Machinery Movers/MRS Industries Inc. Brian Thomas Photography, Inc. Comfort Inn of Rockford

New Chamber Members MEMBERS

10-YEAR MEMBERS

5-YEAR MEMBERS DMTG Ingersoll Production Systems North American Tool Corporation Rock River Valley Blood Center – Perryville Road

Full Service Professional Architectural Design Services - New Construction, Remodeling on a Variety of Project Types 321 W. State St., Ste. 803, 61101 Jennifer McInnis 815-489-6192 www.andersonmcinnis.com

BIRCH PLUMBING. INC. Plumbing/Service Repair - Remodel P.O. Box 9051 Rockford, IL 61126 Steve Birch 815-988-0719

CIRCLE OF WELLNESS Chiropractic, Massage, Nutrition, Acupuncture, Reflexology, Physical Therapy 101 N. Alpine Road, 61107 Leila MacQueen 779-423-1700 www.circleofwellnessrockford.com

FRIENDS OF JOE BRUSCATO FOR STATE’S ATTORNEY Campaign to Re-Elect Our Current State’s Attorney Who Works Tirelessly to Make our Community a Safe Place to do Business 7177 Crimson Ridge Dr., 61107 Tom McNamara 815-282-8381 www.votejoebruscato.com

HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS TEAM Providing Healthcare Solutions for Small Business Owners and SelfEmployed Individuals Including Medical, Supplemental and Dental Insurance Patrick Heivilin 815-997-4507 www.aplanforeveryone.com

H.O.L.D. (HEART OF LOVE DEVELOPMENT) Assisting in the Educational Tutoring and Advancement of Students 4747 W. Riverside Blvd., 61101 Tracey Carr 815-703-8394

IN HOME SERVICES, INC. A Family of Health Care Companies 7130 Crimson Ridge, 61107 Brianna Pleuss 847-826-4477 www.inhomeservicesinc.com

OUR WALK-IN CLOSET Resale & Consignment Boutique 5846 E. State St., 61108 Nicole Baney 815-543-1851 www.ourwalkincloset.com

ROCK LIQUOR AND WINE Providing One of the Best Experiences When Shopping for Wines and Spirits 3840 Broadway, Ste. B, 61108 Chris Patel 815-977-4345 www.rockliquorandwine.com

SAM’S RISTORANTE Italian Entrees, Pizza, Dine-In, CarryOut/Delivery and Banquets 6075 E. Riverside Blvd., 61101 Gino Galluzzo 815-877-2127 www.samsristorante.com

SODERBERG’S RESTAURANT Proud Purveyors of Good Food, Everything Made from Scratch with Good Quality Assurance 1222 S. Alpine Road Rockford, IL 61108 Joyce Soderberg 815-399-3663

3GM CONSULTING Full Service Business and Consumer Installation, Maintenance, Network, Server, Audio/Video Services P.O. Box 294 Capron, IL 61012 Justin Arendt 847-261-4855 www.3gmconsulting.com

VALLI PRODUCE OF ROCKFORD, INC. Family-Owned International Fresh Market with an Ethnic Flare and Catering 5880 E. State St., 61108 Dominic Presta 815-397-0000 www.valliproduce.com

24

June 2012

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

the News IN Members THEin NEWS

1. Natalya Molencupp

2. Jim Pieschel

3. Diane Goldsworthy

4. Paul Happ

5. Matt Morgan

6. Chris Perry

7. Robin Borchardt, M.D.

8. Roberta Grove

9. Diana Naser

10. Kim Bender

11. Mark R. Rice

12. David Quebbemann

13.Joe Nitiss

14. Christopher W. Anderson

15. Ashlee Robinson

16. Tawna Pete

BOARD APPOINTMENTS Yashekia Simpkins, attorney at Hinshaw Culbertson, joined the Rockford MELD board of directors.

Michael J. Williams, M.S., executive director, Rock River Training Corporation, Inc., was appointed to the Illinois Youth Development Council as part of the After School Youth Development Project Act, to provide young people, 6 to 19, with access to quality afterschool programs.

NEW HIRES, PROMOTIONS, RETIREMENTS Drew Rucinski, Nick Sarianides, Mike Lee, Nick Rice and Rob Currie were added to the Rockford Riverhawks Professional Baseball pitching staff for 2012. Rock Valley College head coach Kevin Vest joined the staff for the 2012 season.

Northwest Bank promoted Natalya Molencupp (1) to accounting/deposit operations specialist.

Blackhawk Bank hired Jim Pieschel (2) as vice president of business banking for its Rockford market.

Meridian hired Diane Goldsworthy (3) as senior account executive and Paul Happ (4) as director of information services.

Pro Com Systems, a division of Ballard Companies, Inc., hired Mario Enriquez as a production assistant.

Matt Morgan (5) was named president of Pearson, contractors for plumbing, heating and pest control, overseeing Rockford, Roscoe, Belvidere, Winnebago, Byron and Freeport.

Wipfli LLP hired Bob Buetow as a director of international tax.

Chris Perry (6) joined U.S. Bank as trust relationship manager at 6940 Villagreen View in Rockford.

Judson University named Edward Hunter, regional vice president of Mission Services at Provena St.

Joseph Hospital and Provena Mercy Medical Center, as winner of D. Ray Wilson Award at its annual prayer breakfast.

Robin Borchardt, M.D. (7), joined Rockford Orthopedic Associates as medical director and Roberta Grove (8) as account executive.

Fairhaven Christian Retirement Center hired Diana Naser (9) as nursing administrator and Kim Bender (10) as director of human resources and supportive services.

Mark R. Rice (11) joined McClure Engineering Associates, Inc., as a division manager for the Rockford office.

Eclipse hired David Quebbemann (12) as director of global sales transformation and Joe Nitiss (13) as director of global supply.

After 23 years, Mary Bowden, MT(ASCP)SBB, will retire as technical director at the Rock River Valley Blood Center. She’s managed laboratory staff and business operations related to patient reference testing, specialized testing, product acceptability testing and quality control.

Christopher W. Anderson (14), LEED AP, became a partner at Larson & Darby Group.

Northwest Bank promoted Ashlee Robinson (15), Tawna Pete (16) and Michelle Johnson (17) to customer service representatives. Keslie Adee (18) joined as a seasonal teller, and Kimberly DeMoulin (19) as a deposit operations/customer service clerk.

EMPLOYEE/COMMUNITY RECOGNITIONS, AWARDS Kelly D. Rosenberger (20) earned a doctorate in nursing practice degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford and is accepting OB/GYN patients at Women’s and Children’s Health Center in Rockford.

Rock Valley College student Janet Saldana received a $1,250 scholarship as a 2012 Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team Silver Scholar, and was listed in the April 23 issue of the USA TODAY newspaper.

Stephen Ramber, ceramic, won Best of Show in the Rock Valley College annual Juried Student Art Show in April.

Dr. Michael Youngblood, professor of economics, was honored as the 24th recipient of the Rock Valley College Faculty of the Year, 2012.

Rock Valley College nominated Amy Kuhlen and Janet Saldana to Phi Theta Kappa All-Illinois Academic Team.

Architect Joe Anderson (21), Anderson McInnis Architects, was honored by the Rockford Park District in March for his commitment to parks and recreation at the 2011 IPRA/IAPD Community Service Awards at the Indoor Sports Center.

Bruce Graham (22), owner of Spectrum Insurance Agency, Inc., was named Life Agent of the Month for February, 2012, by Pekin Life Insurance Company. Nancy Salsbury (23) received a certificate of completion for Pekin Insurance Business Life school.

Trish Rooney, assistant director of Music Ministries at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Rockford and the dean of the Rockford Chapter of the American Guild of Organists, received the Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center 2012 Starr of Excellence Award.

Rosecrance Health Network gave Jerry Paris the Castle Award for distinguished service on Rosecrance boards for almost two decades.

Bill Shippy, project manager at Pro Com Systems, a division of Ballard Companies, Inc., received certification for Milestone software for viewing and recording security cameras.

Francisca Amador (24), vice president of business development at Blackhawk Bank, was named a 2012 Tribute to Women Honoree by the Zonta Club of the Beloit Area.

Rockford Mass Transit District gave awards for Operator of the Year: Darryl Mitchell (first place), Bernard Barnes (second place) and Lance Bressler (third place); Paratransit Operator of the Year: Joe Eterno (first place), Eric Fishe (second place) and Dominic Eterno (third place); and Mechanic of the Year: Jim Donnelli (first place), Jim Groshans (second place) and Tim Blackman (third place).

Jody Perrecone (25), training manager, Complete Health Improvement Program (CHIP), achieved the Wellness Council of America faculty status, after completing four certification courses in results-based workplace wellness training programs.

Rock Valley College student Rebecca Hines won the Paul Simon Student Essay Contest for the state of Illinois, chosen by a panel of Illinois Community College Trustees Association members and addressing the theme “How My Community College Has Changed My Life.”

The Golden Apple Foundation gave Excellence in Education awards to Sonia Belmontes, Barbour Language Academy; Bev Cicolello, Fairview Early Education Center; Jennifer Egen, Rockford Lutheran Academy; Debbie Lecuyer, Kinnikinnick School, and Gina Tuula, Whitman Post Elementary School. LuAnn Widergren, Brookview School, won outstanding principal.

Judson University honored graduating seniors Ryan Reopelle, education, and Rebekah Street, business, with Student Service Awards, and Amy Speweirk, School of Leadership and Business, with the Ames Award for leadership. Rebecca LeMaster was the first student in the 15-year history of the architecture program to win the President’s Scholar award with a summa cum laude from the honors

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

25

June 2012

the News IN Members THEin NEWS

17. Michelle Johnson

18. Keslie Adee

19. Kimberly DeMoulin

20. Kelly D. Rosenberger

21. Joe Anderson

22. Bruce Graham

23. Nancy Salsbury

24. Francisca Amador

25. Jody Perrecone

26. Russell Hoffman

27. Shirley Northington

28. Gordon Eggers, Jr.

program. Judson University President Dr. Jerry Cain received an honorary Doctorate of Letters.

Russell Hoffman (26), financial representative, won the PACESETTER 40 award by Northwestern Mutual, The Krueger Financial Group, for selling 40 life policies in the first six months in the business.

Shirley Northington (27) received Lifescape Community Services’ Employee of the Quarter.

29. Thomas Peterson Jacob T. Fitzgerald, Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., was awarded the Riversouce Annuity Premier Club award for service to clients. Thomas Peterson (29) was certified as a Strategic Portfolio Service advisor.

Gordon Eggers, Jr. (28), president and CEO of Crusader Community Health, is the 2012 recipient of the Winnebago County Dental Society’s Dr. Scott Erickson Memorial Caring Award.

Kendall Ferguson was nominated as student speaker at the Rock Valley College graduation in May, and Dr. Michael Youngblood as the 24th recipient of the Faculty of the Year award.

David Cyrs, CYRS Wealth Advisors, Rockford, was recertified with the Accredited Investment Fiduciary™ (AIF®) designation.

Congressman Don Manzullo (R-Egan) announced that Andrew Plautz, North Love Christian School, Rockford, won third place in the 2012 Illinois 16th

Congressional District high school art competition.

Vinni Farrell, marketing and development director at Siena on Brendenwood, earned the national designation of Certified Relocation & Transition Specialist. She’s the only CRTS in Rockford for helping senior adults transition into a new living community.

Michele Spates, Christine Draheim, Toni Cannella and Rita Gilbertson won $50 VISA gift cards at the Easter Egg Hunt held at Burpee Museum of Natural History and sponsored by Northwest Bank.

OF GENERAL INTEREST Bruce Graham, CPIA, president, & CEO of Spectrum Insurance Agency, Inc., attended the AIMS Society 25th annual PRO-to-PRO seminars in Tampa, Fla. Stacy Wallace, marketing manager for LDR Cleaning & Restoration, presented “Including Broadcast Media and Added Value in your Marketing Plan” at the 2012 DKI Marketing Summit in Indianapolis. Wallace and Kathy Brogren participated in Hillman Reads Week at Hillman Elementary, in which local volunteers read to students for the week in April.

26

June 2012

MEMBERSHIP

Membership Renewals

Member Category of the Month The following is a listing of Rockford Chamber members highlighted in a specific industry.

MANUFACTURERS–PART ONE AEROSPACE

B/E Aerospace, Inc. GE Aviation Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation Kaney Aerospace

ASSEMBLY Energy Dynamics, Inc.

ABC Catering Ltd., A Better Choice Catering

National Business & Industrial Centre, Inc.

Cellusuede Products, Inc.

Ahern Fire Protection

New Leaf Remodeling

FLUID POWER COMPONENTS

Al Grace Appliance

Parker Hannifin Corporation

Alpha Controls & Services

Northern Illinois Minority Companies Association

GEAR MANUFACTURING

Al’s Carpet Flooring & Design Center

Northern Illinois Optical Company

Custom Gear & Machine, Inc. Forest City Gear Co. Rj Link International, Inc.

Al’s Tree Planting

Northwest Community Center

American Red Cross, Rock River Chapter

Padgett Business Services

Ameriprise Financial

Pepper Creek/Fourth Street Greenhouse

Magnuson Industries, Inc.

A One Lapping & Machine Co. Inc. ESCO Grinding & Supply Company M W Grinding of Rockford Sandray Precision Grinding, Inc.

BOXES, CORRUGATED SHIPPING CONTAINERS

Dasco Pro, Inc.

BEVERAGE EQUIPMENT

Rock Valley Packaging, Inc.

BOXES, SET-UP BOXES/ FOLDING CARTONS Rock Valley Packaging, Inc. The Royal Group

CHEMICAL COATINGS Chem Processing, Inc.

CNC MACHINING Abbott Plastics and Supply Co. Anpec Industries, Inc. Crown Machine, Inc. Energy Dynamics, Inc. Kadon Precision Machining

HAND TOOLS HEAT TREATING, METALS GFI Metal Treating Inc. Rockford Heat Treaters, Inc.

HOT DIP GALVANIZING

EQUIPMENT, LAB FIXTURES National Equipment Sales

FASTENER DISTRIBUTION Field Fastener Supply Co.

FASTENER MANUFACTURERS Rocknel Fastener, Inc. Specialty Screw Corporation

FEED MANUFACTURER Kent Feeds, Inc.

FILTRATION EQUIPMENT Barnes International, Inc.

Astro-Physics, Inc. B/E Aerospace, Inc. Ballard Companies, Inc. Becker Realtors Beefaroo, Inc. Belter Machinery Co., Inc. Butitta Brothers Automotive

SPX Hydraulic Technologies

Cain & Company

INDUSTRIAL MACHINE MANUFACTURER/MACHINE REPAIR

Candles and Suds Caraotta Chiropractic Orthopedics P.C.

Bourn Koch, Inc.

Cellusuede Products, Inc.

LAPPING

Coyle-Varland Insurance Agency Inc.

A One Lapping & Machine Co. Inc.

MACHINE SHOPS

Crystal Precision Drilling, Inc. Universal Feeder, Inc.

Associated Bank

HYDRAULIC EQUIPMENT

Rockford ETTCO

DRILLING

Anpec Industries

Blackhawk Propane Company, Inc.

LASER CUTTING

Colorwave Graphics, LLC PG Display Valley Expo and Displays

Androck Hardware Corporation

Rogers Brothers Galvanizing

DESIGN, BUILD SPECIAL MACHINES DISPLAYS, DESIGNERS & PRODUCERS

Thank you to the members who renewed with the Rockford Chamber in May 2012.

FLOCK MANUFACTURERS

ALUMINUM SAND CASTINGS GRINDING, PRECISION Olson Aluminum Casting Ltd. Rockford Foundries, Inc.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

L/J Fabricators, Inc. D Machine, Inc. Header Die & Tool, Inc. JC Milling Co., Inc. K-I Machine Tool & Production Inc. Rockford Broach, Inc. Rockford ID Shop, Inc. Service Machine Company, Inc.

MACHINE TOOLS MegaFab

MACHINERY, ASSEMBLY Dixon Automatic Tool, Inc.

MACHINERY, DISTRIBUTOR & SALES Belter Machinery Co., Inc. Ideal Welding Systems, L.P.

MACHINERY, MOVERS ARCO Machinery Movers/MRS Industries Inc. Listings for our loyalty categories are generated directly from the Business Directory based on the category designated by the member.

Crimson Pointe Danfoss Power Electronics DHS Division of Rehabilitation Services

Cut out and write your company name on the card below.

Give it to the member you are doing business with to show your support of member-to-member business.

Policeman’s Benevolent & Protective Association Unit 6 - Rockford PR Etc., Inc. Print Jet Raintree Seamless Gutters/Siding Red Roof Inn Rock Valley Packaging, Inc. Rockford First Rockford Gastroenterology Associates, Ltd. Rockford Mercantile Agency, Inc. Rockford Orthopedic Associates Rockford Process Control, Inc. Rockford Register Star Rockford Sanitary Systems, Inc. Rockford Speedway/Forest Hills Lodge Rosecrance Health Network Service Machine Company, Inc. Signs Now Singley Construction

Dickerson & Nieman Realtors

Sjostrom & Sons, Inc.

Eclipse, Inc.

Specialty Screw Corporation

Electrical Workers Union/Local 364 IBEW

Spring Ridge Senior Housing

Emeritus at Rockford

State Farm Insurance - Julie Weaver

FitMe Wellness Freed Plumbing, Inc.

StatelineBusiness (Greater Beloit Publishing Co.)

Gauerke Electric Company

Staybridge Suites

Gresty Auto Sales

Stenstrom Companies

Gypsum Supply Company

SupplyCore, Inc.

Hampton Properties (Leasing Office)

The Olive Garden Italian Restaurant

Harlem Community Center

The Salvation Army

Heritage Credit Union

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Highcrest Centre

Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum

Hilton Garden Inn

Tricoci University of Beauty Culture, LLC

Holcomb State Bank Holmstrom & Kennedy, P.C. Hooters of Rockford Hyzer, Hyzer & Jacobs

Member-to-member Loyalty Card

Pathways EAP

Innova Med Jerome S. Weiskopf, MD, PC JMK Nippon Restaurant Johnson Controls, Inc. Kelly Services LaMonica Beverages, Inc. Leading Edge Hydraulics Lee ’n Sons Plumbing, Inc. Lobdell & Hall, Inc.

Sprinkmann Sons Corporation

TruGreen US Bank Van Sickle & McLaughlin, CPAs Veolia Environmental Services Visions Lighting and Accessories Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Riverside & Owen Center Road William N. Georgis, MD, SC Winnebago County Farm Bureau Women of Today’s Manufacturing (WOTM) Woods Equipment Company

LSP Industries, Inc.

WROK/WZOK/WXXQ/WKGL Cumulus Broadcasting Inc.

Magnuson Industries, Inc.

X L Academics, Inc.

MegaFab

Youngberg Industries, Inc.

Meg’s Daily Grind Mutual Management Services, Inc.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

EVENTS

Upcoming Chamber Events JUNE, 2012 Friday, June 1 Ribbon Cutting, the groundUP s.s.i. (gUs, inc), 6330 Forest Hills Road, 10 to 11 a.m.

Tuesday, June 5 Business Women’s Council, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road.

Danette Maynard, co owner of Tuffy’s Auto Service, presents Car Repair for Women. Sponsored by AAIM Employers’ Association.

Friday, June 8 Rockford Chamber Government Affairs Council Meeting, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St. For more information on how to join, contact Heidi Garner at 815-316-4312.

Tuesday, June 12 Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Sam’s Ristorante, 6075 E. Riverside Blvd. Contact Denise Galluzzo-Wimmer, Alliance Insurance Agency, denise@flandersinsurance. com.

Wednesday, June 13 Breakfast Buzz-Benson Stone Story, 7:30 to 9 a.m., Rock Valley College, Woodward Technology Center, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Andy Benson, owner of Benson Stone Company, Inc., will discuss how the family got started in its successful business. Sponsored by McGladrey.

Advantage Power Network Club, Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Perry Creek Pkwy. Contact Teri Watts, Whitehead Inc., Realtors®, tlwatts@ whiteheadcommercial.com or Holly Hanson, The Business Edge Inc., coach@thebizedge.biz.

Advantage Club – Originals, various locations. Contact Stacy Wallace, LDR Construction Services, Inc., 815874-7066 or swallace@ldr4service. com.

Monday, June 25 Ribbon Cutting, Circles of Wellness, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 101 N. Alpine Road.

Tuesday, June 26 Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Sam’s Ristorante, 6075 E. Riverside Blvd. Contact Denise Galluzzo-Wimmer, Alliance Insurance Agency, denise@ flandersinsurance.com.

Wednesday, June 27 Advantage Power Network Club, Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Perry Creek Pkwy. Contact Teri Watts, Whitehead Inc., Realtors®, tlwatts@ whiteheadcommercial.com or Holly Hanson, The Business Edge Inc., coach@thebizedge.biz.

27

June 2012

Thursday, June 21 10:00 am - 1:15 pm Cliffbreakers Riverside Resort 700 W. Riverside Blvd., Rockford

Women in Business Luncheon The chamber welcomes a panel of successful local women executives, all inaugural members of the 2011 People You Should Know recognition program, who will engage in a frank and lively dialogue on achieving success in their careers and the business world. They will talk about key philosophies, pathways to success, the environment for women in business over their careers, and the benefits they gain from engaging with the community, both professionally and personally.

Sponsors: Rockford Health System (presenting); First National Bank and Trust Co. and OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center (gold); Humana (Women in Business awards) Advantage Club – Originals, various locations. Contact Stacy Wallace, LDR Construction Services, Inc., 815-874-7066 or swallace@ ldr4service.com.

JULY, 2012

Advertisers Index ADVERTISERS Alpine Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5, 12 Anderson Japanese Gardens. . . . . . . . . 9 BART. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Brian Thomas Photography, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Broadmoor Agency, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Comcast. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 First National Bank and Trust Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Giovanni’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 McGladrey. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Pearson Pest Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Ray King Realtors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Riverside Community Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Rockford Bank & Trust. . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Rockford Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10, 21, 25

Wednesday, July 11 Chamber Founders Day Celebration, Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road. Sponsored by Windstream (presenting).

Advantage Power Network Club, Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Perry Creek Pkwy. Contact Teri Watts, Whitehead Inc., Realtors®, tlwatts@ whiteheadcommercial.com or Holly Hanson, The Business Edge Inc., coach@thebizedge.biz.

Advantage Club – Originals, various locations. Contact Stacy Wallace, LDR Construction Services, Inc., 815-874-7066 or swallace@ ldr4service.com.

Tuesday, July 17 Chamber 101 with Speed Networking, 4 to 5:15 p.m., Whitehead Inc., Realtors®, 839 N. Perryville Road, lower level.

Sponsored by MembersAlliance.

Tuesday, July 24 Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Sam’s Ristorante, 6075 E. Riverside Blvd. Contact Denise Galluzzo-Wimmer, Alliance Insurance Agency, denise@flandersinsurance.com.

Rockford Park District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Rock Valley College BPI. . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Rock Valley College Starlight Theatre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 RSO On Tap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Small Business Development Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Stillman Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Thayer Lighting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Title Underwriters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Van Galder Bus A Coach USA Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Whitehead Realtors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Chamber Staff / Call 815-987-8100 Einar K. Forsman, President & CEO....................................

Heidi Garner, Executive Assistant to the President..................

Doug Hessong, Director of Publications & Technology.............

Lynette Jacques, Advertising and Sponsorship Executive.........

Vee Jevremovic, Manager of Education Programs and Events.. ..

Jazzminne Keyes, Ignite Director.......................................

Cyndie Landis, Financial Assistant.. ....................................

Joy Moriarty, V.P. Finance.. ...............................................

Stacy Mullins, Director of Events.. ......................................

Diane Navickis, Membership Development Manager...............

Joan Sundvall, Membership Contact Coordinator...................

Valerie Tippitt, Membership Development Manager.................

Tuesday, July 10 Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Sam’s Ristorante, 6075 E. Riverside Blvd. Contact Denise Galluzzo-Wimmer, Alliance Insurance Agency, denise@flandersinsurance. com.

Rockford College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Rockford Health System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Direct Line 815-316-4304 815-316-4312 815-316-4338 815-316-4317 815-316-4337 815-316-4335 815-316-4300 815-316-4316 815-316-4302 815-316-4315 815-316-4320 815-316-4336

July 2012 Special Section Architecture, Office Services, Retail (Innovative Office Environments) For information on advertising, call 815-

987-8100

Chamber Board of Directors & Officers EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Chairman of the Board Mike Broski Entré Computer Solutions Chairman Elect Richard Walsh SwedishAmerican Health System Vice Chair Patti Thayer Thayer Lighting, Inc. Treasurer Larry Bridgeland Mid-City Office Products Immediate Past Chairman Pam Maher KMK Media Group

DIRECTORS Romero Bennett Blue Sky Insurance Agency, Inc.

Andrew Benson Benson Stone Company, Inc. Ryan Brauns Rockford Consulting & Brokerage Paul Callighan ComEd, An Exelon Company Joe Castrogiovanni Giovanni’s, Inc. J Chapman Maverick Media of Rockford LLC Rena Cotsones Northern Illinois University Darlene Furst Furst Staffing Penelope Lechtenberg Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP Michael Mastroianni Rock Valley College

Wednesday, July 25 Advantage Power Network Club, Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Perry Creek Pkwy. Contact Teri Watts, Whitehead Inc., Realtors®, tlwatts@ whiteheadcommercial.com or Holly

Paul McCann Stanley Steemer Pat Morrow Alpine Bank Mark Peterson CBL Associates Cherry Vale Peter Ricker Rockford Register Star Timothy Rollins WilliamsMcCarthy Daniel Saavedra Saavedra Gehlhausen Architects Henry Seybold Rockford Health System

Tim White Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation Jennifer Wood Sikich LLP Richard Zumwalt OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center

EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS Janyce Fadden Rockford Area Economic Development Council

Pat Shaw McGladrey

Einar K. Forsman President & CEO, Rockford Chamber of Commerce

Somchan Thatsanaphon K-I Machine Tool & Production Inc.

John Groh Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Hanson, The Business Edge Inc., coach@thebizedge.biz.

Advantage Club – Originals, various locations. Contact Stacy Wallace, LDR Construction Services, Inc., 815-8747066 or swallace@ldr4service.com.