July Voice 2021 by Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce

the July 2021 | Volume 34 | No. 7

COUNTING US IN

EXOTHERAPY

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of the rockford business community

TEMPORARY ROCKFORD CASINO GETS FINAL GO AHEAD

Congratulations to the 2021 PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW PHOTOS BY MINDY JOY PHOTOGRAPHY

Stories edited by Barbara Connors The Rockford Chamber announces its newest class of People You Should Know honorees — individuals in our region who are compelling, interesting and amazing.

Lesly Couper, with workplace, speaks to the honorees and guests at the PYSK reception.

More than 100 raised a glass at an intimate afternoon dessert and champagne reception on June 24 at Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens in celebration of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce’s 2021 People You Should Know honorees. Thanks to presenting sponsor, workplace; hospitality sponsor, OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center, and photography sponsor, Mindy Joy Photography. Continued on page 16

Community honors Paul Logli for his years of leadership Moving United Way into an issue-oriented organization

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Friends, family and the community bid a fond farewell to retiring United Way of Rock River Valley President and CEO Paul Logli at Music at Midway: A United Way Celebration on June 23. In addition to the party honoring Logli for his 45 years of service, 13 years at the helm of United Way, the event was a campaign celebration honoring donors and a fundraiser showcasing United Way’s community impact. Logli has been a fixture in the community for years, giving his time and talents to numerous causes such as Rockford Public Library, Transform Rockford and Alignment Rockford. He is considered the founder of the Carrie Lynn Children’s Advocacy Center and is a Charter Board Member of the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. Under his leadership, United Way transitioned into an issue-oriented organization in order to make a deeper impact on specific issues facing our region. Most recently, Logli oversaw

As of June 11, the Illinois Gaming Board granted permission to begin construction of the temporary Hard Rock Casino in Rockford, expected to begin later this month at the former location of Giovanni’s Restaurant and Convention Center. RinglandJohnson will do the construction. The temporary casino could operate for up to two years. Meanwhile, construction can begin on the permanent Hard Rock Casino approved as part of Senate Bill 690, the largest gaming expansion bill ever passed in Illinois. Work on the permanent site is expected to begin next year with an anticipated completion date in 2023.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

HEARTBEAT OF HEALTHCARE

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12 PRAIRIE STREET BREWING CO. For more information, see page 31 SPONSORED BY

ROCKFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY CUSTOMERS NOW CAN BORROW LAPTOPS Pictured with Paul at Music at Midway is United Way’s Move the Middle Team: Britney Lindgren, achievement advocate, (left) and Nicole Bennett, director of Education Initiatives (right). United Way’s launch of Move the Middle – an initiative that addresses the unique needs of sixth, seventh and eighth graders and continues UWRRV’s long-running commitment to ensuring children have the support they need to succeed in school. “I look back on my 13 years as head of United Way, and I am so grateful for the people who have supported us in doing great things for the community. Donors and volunteers, businesses large and small, organized labor, partner agencies, board members and my colleagues in the office – all have made my service possible. Their talent, time and trust in me is humbling,” said Logli. “I am really going to miss the United Way team but it is time to slow down a bit, maybe improve my golf game and certainly enjoy my family. I just hope they enjoy having me around as well,” he said with a chuckle. v

Rockford Public Library cardholders 18 and up now can check out Google Chromebook laptops from the Montague Branch Library and mobile library – and soon from the Hart Interim Library. Most Chromebooks are loanable for up to 90 days to adult students, entrepreneurs and those working on a longer-term project. A select number of laptops also can be borrowed for one week. Visit www. rockfordpubliclibrary.org, Check It Out tab.

CITY COUNCIL APPROVES $19.5 MILLION WATER POWER LOFTS PROJECT In June, the Rockford City Council approved developer Justin Fern’s Urban Equity Properties plans to redevelop a vacant industrial building at 700 S. Main St., into a 64-unit luxury Water Power Lofts apartment complex. The project is expected to break ground this fall and will be completed by late winter 2023. Financing sources include city incentives, historic tax credits, private equity and traditional financing.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

July 2021

EXECUTIVE’S PERSPECTIVE

CAITLIN PUSATERI Rockford Chamber

Networking: A Post Pandemic Skill

After 15 months of pandemic-life and welcoming a new baby home in late May, for me, attending in-person events holds equal parts anxiety and welcome adult interaction. My brain, currently running entirely on coffee, has forgotten the finer parts of networking. The ease of conversation that I had built up over years of human interaction is somehow now rusty. Names no longer pop into my head easily — regardless of how familiar a face looks. Extending my hand for a hearty shake now feels foreign, as I’m unsure the level of comfort people have with actual human touch. And casual small talk now seems far more difficult to conjure having missed out on people’s lives for almost half a year. “What’s new?” feels like all too much of a question and not nearly enough at the same time. What is that old saying? It’s like riding a bike? Sure — it’s like riding a bike … after you haven’t since you were a far more flexible, resilient and naïve kid. As we move into the fresh air of inperson events, I wanted to take time to

share some thoughts on the resurrection of networking. While some of these tips may be reminders from days gone by, others are more future focused and COVID-19 conscious. After all, the vaccine (are you vaccinated yet? Go get vaccinated!) is a wonderful weapon against the disease, but the eradication of COVID-19 is unlikely — at least for now. COVID-19, and the shared pandemic experience, will leave a lasting imprint on our organizations and our lives. And our networking will reflect that.

Expect it to be awkward If we’re honest with ourselves, prepandemic networking had its fair-share of awkwardness, but post-pandemic networking will be ripe with oddity. People will forget names. They’ll be overly anxious to connect and jump into conversations they shouldn’t or overshare information that’s more personal than the environment calls for. Give grace — lots and lots and lots of grace. Manage your expectations and go into situations knowing that everyone

is sort of in uncharted territory. Name the feelings (“Hi! I’m sorry, this is awkward but I can’t remember your name — it’s been an exhausting last few months. Can you help me out?”), take a deep breath, and know that everyone else is in the same boat.

Reinvent small talk Pre-pandemic, our default conversations revolved around a few things: a general “how are things?” with a standard “busy, busy, busy” response; sports; and weather. Things are weird, sports are weird, and the weather is weird. Now that we’ve cleared that up, let’s focus on more impactful questions to fill in that small-talk space. Let’s try - “What has brought you joy lately?”; “Have you read anything — an article, book, blog — that was thoughtprovoking in the last few months?” or “What are you looking forward to over the next quarter, business-wise?” While these are more interesting questions, they also may lead you to a better business connection, which is the point of networking anyways!

The grandma rule still applies It’s been awhile since you have been with people outside the four walls of your own home. More than likely, those within your home have similar views or opinions on most controversial topics — or they love you enough to have difficult

conversations with you on the regular. In public events? People have less tolerance for your rants. While spirited conversation helps us grow, learn and thrive, try to avoid sensitive topics right out of the gate at a networking event. If you wouldn’t say it in front of your grandmother or if the comment could set off WW3 on Twitter, you probably don’t want to lead with it at a networking event. Ready to hit the ground running? Many of our events are returning inperson! Check our calendar of events on rockfordchamber.com. We’ll see you there!

Let your Voice be heard The Rockford Chamber of Commerce welcomes and encourages member submissions for The VOICE of the Rockford Business Community. Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding publication date. Send news releases and other items of interest to the business community to: The VOICE Rockford Chamber of Commerce 308 W. State St., Ste. 190 Rockford, IL 61101 For information about advertising contact Customer Service at 815-987-8100. The VOICE of the Rockford Business Community (USPS 784-120). ISSN number 1086-0630, is published monthly by the Rockford Chamber of Commerce, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, Illinois 61101. Periodicals postage paid at Rockford, Ill. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The VOICE of the Rockford Business Community, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, IL 61101.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

July 2021

proﬁle

MEMBER PROFILE

RSM: Counting the ways to success

Rockford oﬃce part of fifth-largest accounting firm in world By Paul Anthony Arco Pat Shaw has seen plenty of change in the world of accounting since he came to Rockford in 1983. Shaw joined what was known at the time as Peat Marwick Mitchell & Co., as an associate, after graduating from Northern Illinois University. The Rockford office of that firm later merged with McGladrey & Pullen and today is known as RSM, LLP, the fifth-largest public accounting firm in the world, and the largest firm serving the middle market. Among RSM’s core services are audit, tax and consulting. Nationally, RSM serves several sectors including industrial products, consumer products, health care, energy and nonprofits; in Rockford, the firm’s primary focus is industrial products clients. “What differentiates us is our scale, size and depth of expertise,” Shaw said. “Because of the industry specialization, expertise of our personnel and our ability to draw on our vast national resources, we can provide solutions and service offerings that other firms cannot.” Three years ago, Shaw became managing partner of the Rockford

office. “Most of our clients are long-term clients,” he said. “We handle financial statement reporting and government reporting requirements including audits, tax compliance and other annual requirements, but more importantly, thanks to our background and expertise, our client relationships are very consultative and integrated. We help our clients achieve success through creative solutions and timely advice.”

Private Equity Companies RSM’s history dates back to 1926, when Ira B. McGladrey started his own accounting firm in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Over the next several decades, more partners were added, and more partners were brought on, which led to more name changes. In 2015, McGladrey became RSM US LLP and joined other firms in the RSM International network under the brand RSM. Today, RSM has 12,000 employees in 87 offices across the country and four locations in Canada. There are approximately 100 employees working in Rockford, including auditors, tax professionals and consultants. The regional research and development tax

credit group is also based in Rockford. “We have a strong practice group here,” said Shaw. “Our depth of knowledge and expertise is second to none.” The biggest change Shaw has seen in the past 30-plus years is the ownership structure of the clients RSM serves. Many family-owned businesses have been sold to private equity companies. “These familyowned businesses used to be passed down to the children, but that’s not always the case anymore,” Shaw said. “This change doesn’t alter what we do. In fact, ownership by private equity has brought financial strength and leadership to some of these companies that didn’t exist before.” Part of having a strong workplace culture is supporting the community. Many RSM employees serve on local boards including the Goldie Floberg Center, Rockford Symphony Orchestra, Rockford Chamber of Commerce and the Rockford Area Growth Partnership. Shaw is also a long-time director of the Blazer Foundation. “We never have to twist any arms to get our people involved,” Shaw said. “That’s a testament to the character of our people and how much we believe in our community.” Over the years, Shaw has declined job

Pat Shaw, Managing Partner offers in larger markets. After nearly four decades, he can’t imagine being anywhere else. “It’s all about client service to me,” he said. “Our clients are like family. We attend weddings, funerals and other events. This has been a fantastic community to practice in.” And future growth is almost a given for one of the accounting bigfoots. “RSM is always acquiring major firms, and we’re seeing similar growth in the international markets as well,” Shaw said. “We are the fastest growing public firm in the last five years. We’ve been blessed and fortunate to have achieved much success and that will only continue.”

RSM

Pat Shaw: Managing Partner 1252 Bell Valley Road, Suite 300 815-231-7400 www.rsmus.com

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

July 2021

Winnebago County, Loves Park awarded $2.6 million in ITEP awards

Money aimed towards alternate transportation and recreation systems Winnebago County and City of Loves Park received $2,660,600 from the Illinois Department of Transportation through the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program. Overall, 99 projects throughout Illinois received nearly $106 million, with the goal to achieve a more bikeand pedestrian-friendly state and viable alternatives to motorized vehicles for day-to-day transportation needs.

Extending Multi-Use Path Along Perryville Road

Source: Map taken from The League of Illinois Bicyclists, 2012.

Winnebago County received a $660,600 share of the pie and will use the funds to extend an existing multiuse path along Perryville Road from Anjali Way to Willowbrook Lane. The existing path begins at the intersection of Perryville Road and Argus Drive in southeast Rockford, and currently terminates at Hart Road; approximately 6.6 miles long. The extension would continue the multi-use path another 1.24 miles to the north, connecting the Village of Machesney Park, the City of

Loves Park and the southeast portion of Rockford.

Improving Pedestrian Access Along IL 251 The City of Loves Park received $2,000,000 to extend the IL 251 Streetscape. Namely, towards the engineering and construction of a shared use bike path and sidewalk improvements along IL 251 from River Lane to Windsor Road to provide a safe, direct and accessible route for pedestrians and bicyclists along a major, high-speed four-lane arterial roadway. Other upgrades will include traffic signals at several intersections, street lighting and landscaping. These projects align with the goals of the Regional Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan and the 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan for the Rockford Region, developed by the Region 1 Planning Council in coordination with its partner agencies. For more information, visit www. r1planning.org.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

July 2021

Manufacturing, not online shopping, ranks no. 1 in e-commerce Ask someone to define “e-commerce” and they’ll likely say: online shopping. While online retail is a significant player in the world of e-commerce — $519.6 billion of total retail trade e-commerce in 2018 — it pales in comparison to the share of total manufacturing, wholesale trade and services sector activities conducted electronically. According to the Census Bureau’s 2018 E-Commerce Statistics report, manufacturing e-commerce shipments made up 67.3 percent or nearly $4.0 trillion of the $6.0 trillion in total value of manufacturing shipments. By comparison, retail e-commerce sales were only 9.9 percent or $519.6 billion of the $5.3 trillion in total retail sales.

What Is Manufacturing E-Commerce? Manufacturing e-commerce includes online orders from customers. However,

Manufacturing businesses have embraced e-commerce because it streamlines the process of purchasing and selling components and products to other businesses. these orders include purchases from both traditional consumers and other domestic establishments of the same company that in turn manufacture, assemble or fabricate the product. For example, electronic orders of components by an automobile assembly plant from a parts manufacturer owned by the same company would be counted as manufacturing e-commerce. E-commerce can be conducted over

the internet but also includes sales made using extranets, Electronic Data Interchange networks, email or other online systems and payment may or may not be made online. The price and terms of manufacturing e-commerce shipments can also be negotiated on these platforms. Manufacturing businesses have embraced e-commerce because it streamlines the process of purchasing and selling components and products to other businesses. The automobile assembly industry is a prime example. The industry adopted “just-in-time” manufacturing years ago. Under this process, components needed to build cars are delivered to the assembly plant right when they are needed. This helps reduce the need for large parts inventories and warehouse space to store them. To make this process efficient, the

assembly plant maintains an electronic data interchange with parts suppliers to order parts exactly when they are needed.

The Future in Manufacturing Other reasons manufacturers have embraced e-commerce: Businesses that supply inputs to manufacturers don’t have to wait for paper order forms to be received and processed. Orders come in electronically and can be processed immediately. These businesses can also more accurately schedule their transportation systems. These supply chain improvements also cascade downstream: Individuals receive their online orders quicker and more accurately. Andrew W. Hait is a survey statistician/ economist at the U.S. Census Bureau.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

July 2021

 Destination

ILLINOIS, USA

ADDING WEALTH TO THE REGION’S ECONOMY BY GROWING TOURISM

JOHN GROH Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Building tourism through community collaborations

As the economy crawls back from the crushing effects of COVID, I am energized by the onslaught of collaboration and creative thinking among our partners throughout the county. In the scheme of things, we are all small organizations with small staffs and small budgets, and while we could use our limited resources to limit our thinking, we instead are using it to drive collaboration. We’re combining our collective strengths to rebuild tourism together.

focused on beautification. CRE8IV, the public art initiative we introduced in 2019 has burst from its 2020 “pandemic pause” with a flurry of new murals and sculpture installations. Currently in progress, CRE8IV: transformation art, is possible due to collaboration with Painters District Council No. 30, Rockford Area Arts Council, property owners, donors, sponsors and several municipalities,

including

Rockford,

Rockton, Loves Park and Pecatonica. Together, these partners have brought

Alongside the quality of our parks, aﬀordable cost-of-living, ample entertainment choices, proximity to global markets, access to education, diverse

new life to our neighborhoods and communities and are attracting visitors from surrounding counties. Our collaborative efforts also extend to our hospitality partners. Restaurants were one of the hardest hit businesses last year, so RACVB worked with them to continually monitor and implement

communities, and many

safety

other positive attributes.

promotions such as “To-go Tuesdays”

Rockford Park District and RACVB are “winning together,” by strengthening our long-term partnership through continued collaboration in attracting large-scale sporting events that bring hundreds and thousands of visitors to tournaments who consequently, book rooms at our hotels and tables at our restaurants. The park district team ensures that our sports fields, museums and destination parks are not only “visitor-ready,” but they elevate the quality of life for the residents of Rockford and our region. The quality of our parks and recreation facilities is one of the highly ranked reasons to live and work in the Rockford area. Alongside the quality of our parks, affordable cost-ofliving, ample entertainment choices, proximity to global markets, access to education, diverse communities, and many other positive attributes. The City of Rockford has recognized that these attributes need to be promoted and has asked RACVB to tell our region’s story to attract new residents. Leveraging RACVB’s marketing expertise, we’ll collaborate with the city’s team to position Rockford as a desirable place to relocate – and attract more visitors along the way, while also reminding residents of why this is a great place to live, work and play. Along with promoting Rockford’s greatness, we collaborate with many, many groups in place-making projects

protocols

and

organized

and our first-ever regional Restaurant Week. We also produced “Lunch Chat” webinars in collaboration with local and national experts to sustain restaurants, hotels, museums, retailers, venues and small businesses. These collaborations are vital for building momentum in our economic recovery. While I’m encouraged by the recent return of events and travel, I’m reminded that the pandemic completely halted corporate, convention, sports and leisure travel, and we’re rebuilding the tourism economy from all-time lows. Before

the

pandemic,

our

community saw 10 consecutive years of growth through tourism, resulting in $409 million in economic impact and $100 million in employment income. Additionally,

tourism

supported

the livelihood of more than 3,000 hardworking area residents. RACVB is committed to getting our region back to this pre-pandemic economic strength and we’ll get there together -- through collaboration

and

the

collective

strengths of our partners. John Groh is president/CEO of Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. The views expressed are those of Groh’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

DR. EHREN JARRETT Superintendent RPS 205

July 2021

Lower property taxes and improved services Our contribution to business attraction/retention in Rockford

Behind the headlines of Rockford’s strong real estate market is the story of a decade of hard work to create the conditions for recovery. The Register Star last month published a story outlining how Rockford homeowners are seeing the lowest property rates since 2011. Most government agencies either had a flat tax levy or increases of less than two percent. I am proud to say the Rockford Public Schools is among those government agencies that has held the line on its levy -- and not just recently. The district began this hard work in 2011 by cutting the tax levy by $13 million -- from $170 million to $155 million. Then we held it in place for eight taxing cycles. All the while, we have foregone tax increases we were allowed under state law. Since 2011, we have left at least $120 million on the table.

The value of property in Winnebago County is expected to continue to climb, rivaling levels not seen in more than 12 years. Another way to look at this story of hard work is in the tax rate itself: It was $7.93 in 2015; today, it is $6.54. I am personally appreciative of the School Board’s long-standing commitment to this issue. Along with other taxing bodies in Rockford, the district started what I like to call a “virtuous cycle” that created conditions for the recovery we are seeing now. A significant decrease in the tax rate helped contribute to significant increases in property values. The value of property in Winnebago County is expected to continue to climb, rivaling levels not seen in more than 12 years. Responsible financial stewardship is only part of the formula for a healthy community, of course. Our core business is education. While I am proud of the district’s accomplishments in the last decade, we have more work to do.

Thinking Out-of-the-Box In addition to maximizing tax rate reduction, we are committed to improving the services we provide. Our board has set targets for my superintendency to reach by 2024:

Raising the freshman on-track and high school graduation rates, assuring our middle schoolers are on track and improving the literacy rate among third graders. These gains would build on the successes we’ve already had in our school system -- creating a high school academy model for college and career readiness, driving huge increases in Advanced Placement and dual credit courses, boosting student participation in co-curriculars and arts and vastly expanding access to early childhood education. We are not stopping there in our contribution to business attraction and retention in Rockford. Along with the City of Rockford, Northern Illinois University and other partners, we have practiced out-of-the-box thinking to grow our Rockford Promise locationbased scholarship program. With the city’s investment of $1.5 million, this program will guarantee students of the Rockford Public Schools who earn a 3.0 grade point average a tuition-free education at NIU. A growing Rockford requires being intentional about tax policies. About providing great services. About investing in the future of our young people with innovative programs like Rockford Promise. In the Rockford Public Schools, we’re proud of where we’ve gotten in our 10-year sustained journey but we’re not satisfied. In all thriving communities, property values go up while tax rates stay stable or go down. That’s not work that ends at one year or even 10 years. We’re committed to continuing to practice fiscal discipline. We’re committed to continuing to partner with other taxing bodies to grow the tax base and shrink the tax rate. We’re committed to fulfilling a Promise to improve the lives of our students -- while they are in our classrooms or continuing their education at places like NIU, Rockford University or Rock Valley College. There’s been a ton of great work, and we’re committed to continuing that work. Dr. Ehren Jarrett is superintendent of Rockford Public Schools. The views expressed are those of Dr. Jarrett’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

July 2021

IGNITE: YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

Live like a local CARMEN KELLERMAN IGNITE

What would be in your Rockford guidebook?

As I was coming back from my trip to Tennessee, I started thinking about all the activities my husband and I found to do in Memphis, Nashville, Lynchburg and Chattanooga. Each of our AirBnbs had a guidebook, and that is where we found many of our activities. It got me thinking- what would I include as “must-sees” in my guidebook?

Start Your Day Right Rockford Roasting Company. Find them at Embassy Suites and at their storefront. Both on Main Street. Meg’s Daily Grind. Find great coffee at their locations on Riverside, Perryville or their coffee truck. Wired Café. Stop by Wired for some great coffee, breakfast or lunch!

Restaurants I Recommend Tavern on Clark. Enjoy dinner on their patio in the summer! Greenﬁre. Go here if you are looking for food cooked in a state-of-the-art woodstone oven. Giordano’s. This is the place to go for some deep-dish pizza without having to go to Chicago! Beef-A-Roo. Here you will find fast food like no other! Don’t forget the cheese fries!

Local Stores to Visit Rockford Art Deli. Take a piece of Rockford home with you! Roxy Carmichael. A boutique that has something for everyone. Rocktown Adventures. Visit them to explore your outdoor adventure side.

What to Do Inside While in Rockford Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum. A historic house museum located in the heart of Rockford, Illinois. Laurent House Foundation. A Frank

Lloyd Wright house built right here in Rockford for the Laurent family! Midway Village Museum. Learn about Rockford’s history! Visit the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau for more information on events happening while you are in town.

What to Do Outside While in Rockford Anderson Japanese Gardens. Experience gardens like you never have before! Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden. Enjoy 155 acres of woodlands and botanical gardens. Rockford Park District. Spend the day at one of Rockford’s many parks! Severson Dells Nature Center. Find your inner nature lover at Severson!

Day Trips Prairieview Golf Course in Byron. Only a 30-minute drive. Stop by this golf course for 18 holes or stop by PrairieFire Golf & Grill to play golf with Toptracer® technology!

Brews and Booze Prairie Street Brewing. Enjoy Dinner on the Dock while you sip some local beer! Barnstormer Distillery. Rockford’s very own distillery! Check out the local spirits while on your trip! Artale Wine Co. Family-owned and -operated wine, beer and spirits store. Set up a private tasting! Visit www.rockford.com, click on the Business Directory for more recommendations. IGNITE MEMBERS: Tell us on our Facebook page or Instagram: What would you include in your Rockford guidebook? Carmen Kellerman is event & program coordinator at the Rockford Chamber of Commerce and IGNITE.

Built in 1969, the nearly 235,000 square feet concrete buildings on 5.35 acres with mechanical failures and deteriorating construction materials were deemed beyond repair.

RHA prepares aging structures for safe demolition Workers on May 24 began setting up secure safety fencing surrounding Brewington Oaks Apartments near downtown Rockford as the Rockford Housing Authority prepares the aging structures for safe and prudent upcoming demolition. “The first step will be a soft demo, starting inside Brewington,” said Laura Snyder, CEO. “During that time, the crew will take down all the artifacts RHA wants to preserve.” The Brewington Oaks housing development opened in 1969 in the city’s ORCHiD neighborhood, to provide housing for senior citizens and the disabled. The buildings were originally called Campus Towers because they were located close to the original site of Rockford College, now Rockford University. The Towers were renamed to Brewington Oaks Apartments after Al Brewington, a staff member who worked his way from maintenance to assistant executive director in his 21 years with the Rockford Housing Authority. The concrete buildings, comprising 233,281 square feet on 5.35 acres, are on the brink of

infrastructure failure. When in 2018 Rockford Housing Authority first announced the intention to demolish the property, occupancy was at 42 percent and 90 of the 418 units were deemed uninhabitable with mechanical, electrical and elevators performing poorly in comparison to modern standards. Roofing and original internal construction materials were deteriorating beyond repair. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development approved tenant vouchers for residents, and the RHA used a variety of financial tools to replace, relocate and find quality affordable homes for the residents and ongoing counseling. RHA Commissioners awarded a $1,544,400 demolition contract to N-TRAK Group of Loves Park to raze the twin 14-story towers at 505 and 515 Seminary Street. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development had given RHA permission to demolish the towers in 2018 but RHA has asked developers last year to submit requests for qualifications to possibly redevelop the site.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

July 2021

GUEST COLUMNIST

JACKSON NICKEL KMK Media Group

Lessons learned from my ﬁrst year of employment

It is hard for me to believe, but I have already spent a year at my first full-time job. After my last semester of college, which included professors scrambling to figure out online classes and a graduation from my couch, it was time to look for a job. I figured it would take forever to find something in the communications field during the peak of COVID-19. After being ignored or rejected by several companies (and a few brief phone interviews with marketing firms of questionable legitimacy), I was lucky to become a communications specialist at KMK Media Group on July 6, 2020, and here I am almost a year later. I learned a lot during the past year from experience, mentoring and overcoming challenges I faced as a new employee starting a job during a pandemic.

Lesson 1: Doing Things In-Person is WAY More Productive Wait, what do you mean Zoom meetings are not standard? In all seriousness, I know conducting business interactions in-person has always been the norm, but I have not been able to experience that norm until recently. We are finally able to meet with clients outside of a computer monitor, and it is so nice to see people in person! The ability to collaborate and be creative with others in-person cannot be overlooked.

Lesson 2: Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions I am one of those people who did not like to raise his hand in school and stressed out about asking too many questions, but that is not an option when you are working. I had (and still have) countless questions. “Why do we do it this way?” “How can I improve this?” I quickly learned how important it is to ask productive and meaningful questions to become acquainted with your job, especially during a time when your co-

workers are working from home and may not be easily accessible for a quick chat in the hallway.

Lesson 3: Get Help From Others Asking for help is more admirable than annoying. We do not send anything to a client until it has been internally reviewed by someone else. This has helped me appreciate new perspectives on my work and develop lots of new ways to be creative. I have felt like a pest asking for another set of eyes, but people really do not mind lending a hand if it will lead to better results.

Lesson 4: Be Flexible If there is anything we have ALL learned, it is the importance of flexibility. Information we receive one day may be completely wrong the next. Plans change, and I have learned that the best thing to do is to just roll with it, teaching me how to adapt quickly.

Lesson 5: Get to Know Your Co-Workers as People When I joined KMK, I was one of only a few people working in the office on a regular basis. Now, we can host allstaff birthday lunches, and we visit each other’s offices mask-free. I am finally getting to know everyone personally. The team becomes more cohesive the more we are together, which makes everyone’s lives easier and our work product better. I did not expect my first full-time job to come during such a unique year, but the situation provided me with skills I may not have developed otherwise, and I am confident those skills will help me succeed in the years to come. Jackson Nickel is a Rockford native and first-year employee at KMK Media Group. The views expressed are those of Nickel’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Burr Oak Valley Preserve named a Nature Preserve Buffer With a goal to protect the high-quality dry dolomite prairie and its inhabitants, the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission in May dedicated 98.93 acres of the Natural Land Institute’s Burr Oak Valley Preserve in Roscoe as an Illinois State Nature Preserve and Nature Preserve Buffer. There are only as many as 140 acres of such habitat left in the state of Illinois. Other qualifying features are the presence of four state-listed plant species and one federally listed insect. The Burr Oak Valley site also has been nominated for inclusion on the Illinois Natural Areas Inventory as Category II, but is still under review. Burr Oak Valley is also documented to provide habitat for 13 faunal species listed in the Illinois Wildlife Action Plan as being in Greatest Need of Conservation, as well as three statethreatened plants. A formal bird survey documented 57 species at Burr Oak Valley, 13 of which are listed in the Illinois Wildlife Action Plan as species in greatest need for conservation. Of these 13 species, nine are documented to actively breed on site. Natural Land Institute volunteers have documented 94 bird species since the site was acquired in 1986. Formal surveys for butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies reveal a high diversity of insect fauna with some species being rare and habitat specific. The relatively rugged topography at Burr Oak Valley was a once vast ecotone of oak barrens that occurred on the eastern edge of the rolling prairies which occupied much of Winnebago County. Diﬃcult access to the interior of the property prevented plowing and much of the woody invasion was kept at bay until the 1980s when cattle grazing ceased. It is anticipated that one day this preserve will also be recognized as a category I INAI site for presence of high-quality natural communities of statewide significance.

SPECIAL SECTION Construction & Real Estate

The median size of a completed single-family house was 2,261 sq. ft. The median sales price of new single-family homes sold in 2020 was $336,900, while the average sales price was $391,900. The median size of a new single-family home sold in 2020 was 2,333 square feet. 123,000 contractor-built single-family homes were started in 2020. The median contract price was $298,500.

Of the 912,000 single-family homes completed in 2020: 870,000 (95%) had air-conditioning. 90,000 had two bedrooms or less (10%) and 401,000 had four bedrooms or more (44%). 29,000 (3%) had one and one-half bathrooms or less and 309,000 (39%) homes had three or more bathrooms. 353,000 (39%) had a heat pump. Of these, 344,000 (97%) were air-sourced and 9,000 (3%) were ground-sourced. 831,000 (91%) were framed in wood and 75,000 (8%) were framed using concrete. 306,000 (34%) had a patio and a porch, while 71,000 (8%) had no outdoor features. Of the 375,000 multifamily units completed in 2020: 164,000 (44%) had one bedroom and 38,000 (10%) had three bedrooms or more. 372,000 (99%) were conventional apartments and 3,000 (<1%) were townhouses.

3,000 had four floors or more. 2,000 had 50 units or more. 6,000 were heated by a heat pump. 12,000 had wood framing.

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Honeywell survey reveals healthier buildings top list of back-to-work priorities

Highlights of annual 2020 characteristics of new housing

Of the 14,000 multifamily buildings completed in 2020:

July 2021

216,000 (58%) were in buildings with four floors or more. 334,000 (89%) had individual laundry facilities and 24,000 (6%) had shared laundry facilities. 263,000 (70%) were in buildings framed in wood and 38,000 (10%) were in buildings framed in steel. The median size of multifamily units built for rent was 1,075 square feet, while the median of those built for sale was 1,306 square feet.

Of the 822,000 single-family homes sold in 2020: 739,000 were detached homes and 83,000 were attached homes. 348,000 had three bedrooms. 495,000 were heated using gas. 570,000 were purchased using conventional financing and 37,000 were purchased using cash. 250,000 had stucco as the primary exterior wall material. 742,000 had wood framing.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

According to a report released June 23 by Honeywell, 75 percent of surveyed U.S. facility managers say COVID-19 has caused them to permanently rethink how their facility operates. “Rethinking Buildings Post-COVID-19” is the first in Honeywell’s 2021 Building Trends series of surveyed facility managers in the United States, Germany, China and Saudi Arabia. It focuses on COVID-19’s impact on building trends and facility managers’ priorities — now and in the future. Key themes: The pandemic will likely have a lasting impact on facility management and operations. Three-quarters of surveyed U.S. facility managers indicate COVID-19 has prompted their facility to rethink its modes of operation. Many believe changes and upgrades made during the pandemic will be kept in place in some form. For example, 62 percent are more likely to invest in indoor air quality optimization and other healthy-building solutions and 56 percent are more willing to invest in occupant-experience solutions like contactless-building access, smart parking and personalized experiences. A healthy building is a top priority and will remain important. A majority (58 percent) of respondents consider having a healthy building a top priority right now, and 62 percent say it will continue to be a top priority post-

pandemic. Improving indoor air quality ranks as the most important aspect of a healthy building for those working in healthcare and educational facilities, while those working in data centers and commercial buildings cite cleaning procedures as their top priority. Digital transformation of facilities is accelerating. Since COVID-19, more than half of respondents have seen digital transformation accelerate in pace as the need for remote facility management became more acute. More than 9 in 10 facility managers said that remote facility management is important now and 67 percent indicated they are more willing to invest in smart-building solutions that drive efficiency or sustainability, including data aggregation, machine learning and artificial intelligence. Respondents are interested in upgrades to improve the occupant experience, with a contactless building experience ranking high. There is strong interest in upgrades such as improving indoor air quality, energy efficiency and sustainability efforts, and supporting an inviting and innovative building environment. Yet more than half say the buildings they manage do not have air quality solutions, integrated lighting that improves occupant productivity, contactless building entry or an app that provides real-time information on building health.

HOME BUILDERS SURVEY SAYS …

Increased home building in lower-density markets ahead The COVID-19 pandemic is likely to hasten a housing trend already taking place across the nation – residential construction activity that is expanding at a more rapid rate in lower density markets, such as smaller cities and rural areas, according to the National Association of Home Builders Home Building Geography Index. An unavoidable lesson of the public health crisis associated with COVID-19 is that major metropolitan areas faced greater challenges. High density lifestyles, championed by some planners over the last decade as a rival to suburban living, proved to be vulnerable to a virus due to crowded living conditions, dependency on mass transit, and insufficient health and public sector infrastructure. Moreover, the spread of COVID-19 that began towards latter half of the first quarter of 2020 resulted in the closure of most non-essential businesses, weakening economic activity and housing demand. The HBGI found that even before

the pandemic hit, home construction activity was increasing at a higher rate in inner and outer suburbs than in high-density markets. While the data show that single-family construction expanded across all seven HBGI-tracked economic geographies, the strongest growth rate (9.1 percent) was found in outlying suburbs (exurbs) of small metro areas, as measured on a one-year moving average. Given expected impacts of the virus on housing preferences, we expect these trends to continue as households seek out single-family homes further from urban cores, particularly as telecommuting continues in elevated numbers. The combined shares of lower density markets, which includes core metro areas of small cities, has gradually increased since 2016 to about 47 percent of all single-family builds. These less dense markets make up about 44 percent of the U.S. population. Source: Litic Murali, National Association of Home Builders

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July 2021

SPECIAL SECTION Construction & Real Estate

Pandemic’s economic impact varied by industry in 2020 Winners included real estate, couriers, retail e-commerce Consumer habits shifted dramatically in March 2020 in response to stay-at-home orders and the shuttering of offices across the nation amid the COVID-19 pandemic. There were reports of people traveling less, workers gaining unprecedented freedom to work from anywhere and consumers ordering more products online. But did these lifestyle changes affect industries in the same way? Not according to a review of the seasonally adjusted 2020 quarterly revenue estimates published by the Census Bureau’s Quarterly Services Survey. The QSS and other Census Bureau economic indicators allow data users to understand how the pandemic’s economic impact differed across and within various sectors during 2020. The census bureau found that both couriers and messengers and offices of real estate agents and brokers ended the year with revenue above pre-pandemic levels from the last quarter of 2019. In contrast, the accommodations subsector ended 2020 with revenue well below the last quarter of 2019.

percent. Survey data indicate a continued increase in real estate agent and broker revenue in the fourth quarter to $40.6 billion, up 13.7 percent from the third quarter of 2020 and 23.3 percent from the fourth quarter of 2019.

Are We Still Traveling? Much like real estate agents and brokers, the accommodations subsector recorded a strong increase between the second and third quarters of 2020. However, the growth was not enough to produce year-to-year growth for the subsector. During the third quarter of 2020, accommodations revenue was $40.4 billion, up 88.7 percent from the prior quarter but down 44.0 percent from the third quarter of the previous year. Post-lockdown rebounds in the accommodations subsector happened to varying degrees. Traveler accommodations revenue decreased 64.8 percent in the second quarter, increased 92.5 percent in the third quarter, and did not change significantly in the fourth.

Are We Buying More Houses? Did Companies Move According to recent survey data, the More Merchandise? nation’s Offices of Real Estate Agents and Brokers generated $25.1 billion in revenue in the second quarter of 2020 when strict stay-at-home orders were in place across most of the United States — a 23.2 percent decline from the previous quarter. Mirroring the trends in QSS, New Residential Sales data from the Census Bureau’s Survey of Construction indicate that the seasonally adjusted annual rate of sales of new single-family homes dropped from 730,000 to 582,000 units between February and April 2020. As COVID-19 restrictions were lifted during the third quarter of 2020, the rate of new home sales increased to 971,000 units in September. Similarly, revenue for real estate agents and brokers increased 42.2 percent from the second to the third quarter of 2020. Year-over-year revenue in the third quarter of 2020 increased 5.5

Like most sectors of the service economy, Transportation and Warehousing saw a significant decline in second-quarter revenue followed by a third-quarter rebound. Revenue decreased 25.9 percent in the second quarter of 2020 — the largest absolute quarter-to-quarter percentage change since QSS began publishing data for the sector in 2010. As restrictions started to lift in the third quarter, revenue went up 15.3 percent. Revenue of Couriers and Messengers grew 8.1 percent in the second quarter of 2020 while Truck Transportation declined 16.3 percent. Couriers and messengers deliver smaller packages, such as retail e-commerce orders to consumers, while truck transportation establishments handle larger packages and move freight. The divergent trends in those two

With all four quarters of seasonally adjusted data now available for 2020, we gain better perspective on the industries that economists and others have dubbed the “winners and losers” of the pandemic economy. industries during the second quarter of 2020 coincided with a significant increase in retail e-commerce sales, according to the Monthly Retail Trade Survey’s Quarterly E-Commerce Report. In the second quarter of 2020, retail e-commerce sales increased 31.8 percent from the first quarter of 2020 while total retail sales decreased 3.9 percent for the same period. Retail e-commerce, as a percentage of total retail sales, rose from 11.4 percent to 15.7 percent during this period. Additionally, second quarter retail e-commerce increased 43.8 percent compared to the second quarter of 2019 while total retail sales decreased 3.6 percent for the same period. As 2020 progressed, retail e-commerce sales remained strong. Third quarter sales increased 36.1 percent from the third

quarter of 2019 and fourth quarter sales increased 32.0 percent from the fourth quarter of 2019. Similarly, revenue for couriers and messengers continued its 2020 growth, up 4.1 percent from the second to third quarter and 7.1 percent from the third to the fourth quarter. Fourth quarter revenue also increased 22.7 percent year-over-year. Truck transportation rebounded in the third quarter of 2020. Revenue went up 13.7 percent from the second quarter and then increased 4.0 percent between the third and fourth quarters. The year-overyear change in the fourth quarter was not statistically significant. Source: Cory Breaux, Jessica Fernandez and Ben Griffis, survey statisticians, U.S. Census Bureau’s Economic Indicators Division.

SPECIAL SECTION The Future of Health

July 2021

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VAN MATRE ENCOMPASS HEALTH REHABILITATION USES

robotic exoskeleton technology

Mobilizes stroke patients earlier for optimal outcomes Each year, nearly 60 million people are affected by acquired brain injury, 15 million by a stroke and as many as 500,000 by a spinal cord injury. With early mobilization especially beneficial for stroke recovery, Van Matre Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital began using the robotic exoskeleton suit in April 2021 for gait training. Since that time, more than 30 patients have completed robotic-assisted gait training sessions with the device for diagnoses such as stroke, immune-

IDNR tips for safe water journeys

mediated polyneuropathy, critical illness myopathy and quadriparesis. Clinical research suggests that including EksoNR gait training during inpatient rehabilitation improves patients’ gait speed and walking distance. Most patients take an average of 400 steps their first-time training in the device and an increase in endurance, strength, coordination, balance, midline awareness, gait (walking) patterns, ability to complete activities of daily living, selfconfidence, participation and motivation Illinois Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police and Safety Education experts released some safety reminders for paddlers on Illinois waterways. ■ Always wear a life jacket and never overload a canoe, kayak or other watercraft.

The EksoNR Robotic Exoskeleton is the first device of its kind indicated for stroke and spinal cord injury neurorehabilitation, and the only one indicated for acquired brain injury. It augments strength; helping patients to stand and relearn to walk and improving their step patterns. Utilizing SmartAssist software, certified clinicians can adjust settings based on a patient’s weaknesses and tailor each individual rehab session. in non-robotic training sessions, have been evident in as little as a 20 minutes. “It has been game-changing in how I approach treatment in all of my patients, not only my stroke patients,” said Kate Heinricher, a doctor of physical therapy and Ekso-certified therapist. “It’s as if something clicks in the re-learning ■ Be very conscious of weather and water conditions; dress appropriately for the weather and be alert to changing conditions once on the water. ■ Limit your movements while in small watercraft to prevent capsizing/falling overboard.

■ Warm or hot weather days and cold water can mean a shock to the system ■ Know the area before putting your if paddlers end up in the water, causing watercraft on the water and leave a float disorientation and impairing the ability plan with others: how long you plan to be to swim and/or safely return to their watercraft. High winds and strong out and where you’re going. ■ Never paddle alone.

of all upright tasks from standing to walking and how patients interact with their environment. I truly believe that almost every patient here at Van Matre Encompass Health can benefit from incorporating this technology into their treatment plan.”

currents can make it diﬃcult to keep your craft within reach if the watercraft overturns. ■ Stay hydrated, but do not bring along or consume alcohol or drugs before getting on the water or while on the water. ■ Stay alert to and pay attention to other boats, or the wake from other boats on the water; and never approach a lowhead dam, fallen tree or other potential obstacles. Visit www.boatus.org/study-guide/ activities/paddle

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

July 2021

SPECIAL SECTION The Future of Health

Organizations can aid the return to normal

Easing employees dealing with back-to-the-oﬃce anxiety Carlene Cardosi Regional President, Rosecrance While the COVID-19 pandemic has increased stress, mental health issues and substance use, it has helped those who struggle with anxiety and many routine social interactions. A recent study by the American Psychological Association reported that seven percent of people felt less stress since the pandemic’s beginning. In addition, a study by European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry discovered that nearly 20 percent of Canadian children, 6 to 18, had improved mental health during the pandemic. For people with conditions such as anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder or learning disorders, staying home meant an escape from many stressors. Now, with the country reopening, a return to normal means a return to uncomfortable situations. “Ironically, while many of us have battled isolation over the past year, a

significant group enjoyed the break from so many interactions,” said Carlene Cardosi, regional president of Rosecrance. “I think we underestimate how debilitating anxiety can be,” Cardosi said. “Some have anxiety and excess worry on how to dress for work, the drive to work, how to navigate any social interactions at work and then the stress of their jobs. Being able to stay home has allowed some workers a sense of calm and safety that they have not had before in a work setting. As workers, they have found they focus better from home than a busy office. “For many of us, it’s been a hard transition back to in-person interactions due to many factors. If the employee has children, there are concerns about child care and school safety they must address before returning to work. There are questions such as ‘Should

I wear a mask?’ or ‘Do I shake their hand, share an elbow bump or just nod to greet that person?’ There have been questions about how many staff can eat in the cafeteria and if they can eat at their desk. “We [at Rosecrance] have tried to be as transparent as possible with any changes in our routines or expectations at work. Some employees don’t feel safe returning to the office and to the new normal routine, and that is addressed on an individual basis.”

Aiding the Return to Normal According to Cardosi, organizations have a great opportunity for organizations to show flexibility as staff and clients transition back to daily interactions. Several steps to aid the return to normal: 1. Be OK with the uncomfortable

times and don’t judge those who aren’t rushing back into things. Continue to offer options when available. 2. Move slowly toward resuming the “old” ways. You can start with smaller meetings and events in order to help people get used to interactions again. “Be willing to ask the team what they would like and listen to their suggestions,” Cardosi said. 3. Clear guidelines can help everyone know what to expect. “At Rosecrance, some of our facilities have signs at the front desk that say we are using noncontact greetings. We also are updating staff as meeting or interaction protocols change. These messages reduce some of the worry and also open up dialogue between employees and supervisors to make sure we all feel comfortable in our facilities.”

SPECIAL SECTION The Future of Health

July 2021

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Comfort Keepers commemorates third-annual Day of Joy

Survey shows Americans find more joy seeing family in post-quarantine world It’s been a year like no other, as

the third-annual National Day of Joy;

Americans gain a new perspective when

hosting a community party midday on

it comes to attaining joy in their lives.

June 30 with the Olivo Taco Food truck,

The Comfort Keepers location at 4855 E. State St., in Rockford, was one of 100 nationwide to formally celebrate

J & C Ice cream truck, live music and prizes. As part of the National Day of Joy,

Comfort Keepers conducted a survey polling 2,000 Americans from April 29 to May 1 on their perspectives about joy and specific activities that bring them happiness. It showed evolving attitudes about joy in light of current events. “We’ve all been impacted by events in our country and around the globe,” said owner Mark Podemski. “The results from the National State of Joy survey make clear, that even in difficult times, we are all looking for ways to experience joy. We focus on doing activities with our clients that bring them happiness, from listening to music to baking cookies to reliving family stories.”

National 2021 ‘State of Joy’ Survey Americans Find Joy in People – Not Places, Events or Things Last year’s survey saw Americans missing dining out, travel and personal freedom the most. They looked at the pandemic as a circumstance that prevented them from doing everyday activities. This year as the country continues to open up, respondents find the most joy in connecting with family and loved ones over restaurants, traveling and even wearing masks less often. Seeing family members (42%) and spending time with them (38%) brings Americans more joy than traveling (37%), seeing close friends (32%) or not wearing a mask as often (28%). Seniors over 65 prioritized seeing family the most (55%), compared to last year, when dining at a restaurant topped their post-pandemic to-do list. People plan to see their loved ones as soon as they’re vaccinated (45%), before attending a sporting event (20%) and frequenting the beach or pool (27%).

At the start of the pandemic, most Americans found the most joy in talking to family and friends via phone/video calls (24%) over watching a comforting TV show/movie (19%) and spending time outside (13%). In fact, 62 percent of Americans agree that talking with family members on the phone or video chat was the highlight of their weeks in quarantine. When asked to name the first thing they can think of that brings them joy, many respondents named children, grandchildren or spouses.

Seniors Master Texting, Social Media to Bond with Grandkids Connecting with loved ones virtually became a fact of life for so many people during the pandemic -- an activity that seniors mastered to keep up with the grandkids. ■ One in three over 65 now prefer texting to phone calls. ■ One in three learned how to use social media and brushed up on their pop culture as a way to bond with the younger members of their family. ■ Those over 65 even have favorite emojis — the heart (43%) and the happy face (43%) are getting the most use. Other popular emojis for those over 65 included the beer emoji and assorted animals. ■ One in 10 have even surpassed emoji use and now send GIFs to stay in touch with their grandchildren. ■ Nearly one in five (17%) were introduced to Netflix by their kids or grandkids.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

July 2021

Water, soil sampling around Chemtool being done

‘Don’t drink the water:’ Cyanobacteria Caution when recreating in Illinois lakes or rivers The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Public Health warned residents to be cautious as temperatures rise if planning activities on Illinois lakes and rivers. Water conditions are ideal for cyanobacteria growth. Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) are microscopic organisms that in certain conditions experience a rapid and expansive growth known as a “bloom.” While most blooms are harmless, some can produce toxic chemicals that can cause sickness in people and pets. Sensitive individuals, including young children, the elderly and people with compromised immune systems, are most at risk to adverse health effects through direct skin contact, accidental ingestion of contaminated water or accidental inhalation of water droplets in the air while swimming or other recreational activities in and on the water. Symptoms include rashes, hives, diarrhea, vomiting, coughing or wheezing. Pets also should be kept out of the water or not be allowed to drink it or lick their fur after swimming in water containing a cyanobacteria bloom. If your pet experiences symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. Local officials are advised to post appropriate signage to warn residents to avoid contact with

SPECIAL SECTION The Future of Health

Illinois officials confirmed the presence of the algal toxin, microcystin, above the 8 parts per billion (ppb) health advisory established by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The Illinois EPA collected samples on June 10 along the northern bank of the Illinois River at the Starved Rock Lock & Dam (Illinois River mile 231.1). Source: Minnesota Pollution Control

affected waters, but residents should be aware and avoid suspicious looking water that: ■ looks like spilled, green or blue-green paint; ■ has surface scums, mats or films; ■ has a blue or green crust at the shoreline; ■ is discolored or has green-colored streaks; ■ has greenish globs suspended in the water below the surface. With contact, rinse yourself, your kids and pets off with clean, fresh water as soon as possible. Also wash your hands with soap and water before eating if in contact with lake water or shore debris. Visit www.epa.gov/cyanohabs. If concerned, call your health care provider or the Illinois Poison Center, 1-800-222-1222.

The Illinois EPA collected samples for water quality testing of the Rock River and area groundwater following the Chemtool fire in Rockton, with additional testing of the Rockton community water supply, to ensure no contamination. Samples were collected for Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5), Total Suspended Solids, nutrients, metals, volatile organic compounds and semi-volatile organic compounds. On June 15, the Illinois EPA learned a fluorinated firefighting foam was used to assist in putting out the fire that may contain chemicals used for their oil and water-resistant properties, but can break down into Perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA). Later non-fluorinated foam was used. Although studies on human health effects of PFHxA are lacking, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency released a health advisory on Jan. 28, 2021 on potential adverse health effects of PFHxA based on laboratory studies observed in animals. These include cellular effects in kidneys, decreased weight of offspring, increased triglycerides and reduced red blood cell count.

Containment Efforts Contractors for the company constructed trenches on the southern and western sides of the property to contain water/ foam from fire-fighting efforts. Vacuum trucks also were onscene to remove fire water runoff from trenches and on the property. Soil sampling of the trenches was done. Absorbent boom, used to stop and prevent any spill from traveling further, was also deployed by the Illinois EPA to further protect the Rock River prior to the use of the foam. Illinois EPA has taken ash, wipe, runoff and river samples around the site and in the immediate area. Health interpretation of results collected on private property will be provided by the Illinois Department of Public Health directly to property owners. Preliminary results of initial samples indicate no detection of semivolatile organic compounds. Sampling information will be updated at www2.illinois.gov/epa. Type “chemtool” in the search bar.

SPECIAL SECTION PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW 2021

RHASHONDA WILLIAMS Superintendent of Human Resources, Rockford Park District Rockford native Rhashonda Williams joined the Rockford Park District in 2015. The 25-year human resources veteran has helped the park district to increase resources and programs to remove barriers in diversity, inclusion and equity for employees, guests and vendors. It’s also been important for her to reach out to employees to provide the support they need during recent national events that included the Covid pandemic.

MIKE SANDERS Owner,Crimson Valley Landscaping Mike Sanders worked for a local nursery and greenhouse, before deciding to branch out on his own. In 2001, the Freeport native started his business out of his home. It now offers services from hardscape and landscape design to commercial lawn maintenance, snow and ice removal. Believing in giving back, he mentors area students, volunteers at a food bank and works with Habitat for Humanity.

ANTHONY CORTEZ Director of Finance and IT, Rockford Public Library Anthony Cortez took his affinity for innovation from his position at the City of Rockford to the library. Working with the Library Board of Trustees and Administrative Team on new ideas, he’s overseen the designing and implementation of the Maker Lab, a 600-sq.-ft., glass-encased box on the library’s first floor that offers people access to equipment they wouldn’t otherwise have to test a new idea, gain a new skill or even start their own business.

BETH S. HOWARD Executive Director, Friends of the Coronado With a degree in finance, Beth S. Howard was a big part of the $18.5 million fundraising effort to renovate the beloved, historic Coronado Theatre. For her, the cessation of live performances during Covid has brought new ways of thinking and new opportunities. Inclusion is the focus and a greater variety of events will be accessible to patrons moving forward. She looks forward to the Coronado coming alive again in October. She’s involved in the American Heart Association, a personal cause, as she lost a niece to a congenital heart defect.

July 2021

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“What I love about my job is the ideal of workforce development — individuals seeking adequate training for employment opportunities. It speaks to me and makes me believe there are opportunities for everyone.” – Dr. Lisa M. Bly-Jones

EDUARDO RODRIGUEZ Co-owner, All Auto Parts, Inc. Since 2004, Eduardo Rodriguez and his father, Manuel, have co-owned All Auto Parts, Inc., a salvage yard in Rockford. He started at 12 working at his dad’s salvage yard in the Chicago area. He has taught himself how to do payroll for his 10 employees, added an inventory software program for tracking parts and marketed the business with a website, logo and advertising. He attended 10 schools before graduating from Auburn High School and hopes to eventually earn his college degree.

HEIDI DETTMAN Executive Director of Academics, Rockford Public Schools At Rockford Public Schools, Heidi Dettman aligns programming, resources and opportunities across the district to ensure all students have access to the best possible education. She sees the crises the school district has faced during the past two years – the technology ransom attack in 2019 and the shift to remote learning for 28,000 students last year during the pandemic – as opportunities to engage students differently.

“Our young athletes will someday be fathers or mothers, husbands or wives and maybe coaches in our community. It’s also important that we connect our youth with positive role models (coaches) that care more about developing character and values than wins and losses.” – Lamont Jones

DEREK HUFFER Director of Sales and Marketing, Expo Brokers & International Shipping Specialists (EBISS USA) Derek Huffer has guided EBISS from a oneroom start-up to an international presence in the trade show industry since setting up U.S. operations in Loves Park. The company manages programs in the United Kingdom for U.S. clients, and in the United States for U.K. and European clients. A paradigm shift occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic and through local partnerships the business kept its doors open and turned its warehouse into a full-purpose virtual studio. Along with Lux Productions, it hosted a fundraiser for the Golden Apple Foundation and even built a North Pole stage with Santa Claus Zoom calling local kids during last year’s Stroll on State event.

DARLYNE KELLER President and CEO, Rock Valley Credit Union Darlyne Keller has worked tirelessly alongside her team to adjust to consumer behavior that has changed drastically since the pandemic. The credit union has implemented technological advancements such as new personal teller machines, video consultations and low-contact service. She credits much of her personal and career growth to her experiences as a mother of a son diagnosed with a mental disability. With life sometimes throwing curve balls, and even though not prepared for them, she’s realized you need to be agile and pivot quickly. Contiinued on page 17

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July 2021

PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW 2021 Continued from page 16

CRISTOBAL MANZANO Deputy Coroner, Winnebago County Coroner’s Office Cristobal Manzano is one of 10 deputy coroners for Winnebago County, primarily handling investigations for unnatural death including murders, accidents and suicides. The southern California native served as a corpsman medic in the Navy and saw plenty of combat-related injuries between two tours of duty overseas and his work at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego. Eight years ago, he moved to Rockford after obtaining a biology degree from Texas A&M University. He’s one of only 150 licensed falconers in Illinois and works with the Rockford Park District’s birds of prey program. He plans to spread his own wings by getting his pilot’s license.

ROSS GRIMES Rockford Branch Manager, Fehr Graham Engineering and Environmental Ross Grimes takes pleasure in turning contaminated properties into usable land for redevelopment. His specialty is evaluating soil and groundwater for municipal clients and finding solutions for cleaning up and redeveloping the properties. The Rockford native attended public schools and graduated from Northern Illinois University. One of the most notable projects: the remediation and redevelopment of the former Amerock building on South Main Street. He takes every remediated property as a sign of progress for the Rockford community.

SPECIAL SECTION PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW 2021

KATRYNA KIRBY Founder, Social Kat Co. Katryna Kirby started her company, which specializes in social media management and public relations for clients ranging from golf courses, to real estate, to aerospace companies to wedding venues, from her home last year. She believes “everyone has a story to tell” and in “showcasing the people behind the brand.” The Byron native enjoys the flexibility of owning her own business and volunteers for many organizations. With a degree in recreation, park and tourism administration, she’s a founding board president of the Seward Park District board and volunteers with Next Rockford, Klehm Arboretum and Byron Fest.

MICHAEL DUNN, JR. Executive Director, Region 1 Planning Council Michael Dunn, Jr., is the leader of a multijurisdictional government agency that assists municipalities in Winnebago, Boone, Stephenson and McHenry Counties with regional planning, grant services, economic development assistance, geographic information, research and analytics. One notable economic revitalization project is the Northern Illinois Land Bank Authority. Once privately owned properties are deemed to be abandoned, the land bank can assist in removal of the back taxes; making the properties saleable in the private market – a great way to grow the area’s tax base and raise property values. He works on projects from energy resiliency to environmental sustainability to the future of transportation. Continued on page 18

SPECIAL SECTION PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW 2021

PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW 2021 Continued from page 17

JENNIFER SPENCER Partner, Senior Project Architect, Studio GWA Master’s degree-trained Jennifer Spencer started her architecture career doing general labor on a construction site. Since then she’s been involved in high-profile projects like Prairie Street Brewhouse, Rockford Public Library and Nicholas Conservatory. As one of only 25 percent of working architects and architectural designers who are women, she along with Ashley Sarver will assume 50 percent ownership of Studio GWA. Her volunteer efforts include work with Northern Illinois Hospice, the Laurent House Foundation, AIA Prairie Chapter, the City of Rockford’s Zoning Board of Appeals, the city’s Historic Preservation Committee, and mentoring young students.

DR. MATTHEW SMETANA Emergency Physician, Emergency Management Medical Director, the Regional Healthcare Coalition Medical Director and Associate EMS Medical Director, Mercyhealth Volunteering with a local fire department – and the loss of a friend in a line-of-duty accident – lead to Dr. Matthew Smetana’s current role as an emergency physician. As a physician with Mercyhealth’s MD-1 program, he goes to the scene of trauma and medical emergencies to assist local first responders. It’s a collaboration among people in the emergency department, fire departments, ambulances, law enforcement and other regional hospitals and community partners. He enjoys that no two days are the same. Although challenging seeing the large number of very sick patients with COVID-19, he’s enthusiastic about getting out the vaccine.

LISA M. BLY-JONES, ED.D Board Executive Director, The Workforce Connection After becoming an empty nester, Lisa M. BlyJones, Ed.D, pursued her doctoral degree. She’s combined this, along with her more than 20 years of experience in training and development at places like the United States Postal Service and community college campuses, to lead the local workforce board that provides people with training for available employment opportunities. Lately, she’s taken her education in media relations to host a podcast, “Workforce Wisdom;” interviewing colleagues and leaders from across the country on workforce issues.

July 2021

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

“If you are passionate about your business, you put pressure on yourself to operate at a high level. We know we’re not saving lives here, but what we do is important to us and our clients. That goes for any job or industry.” – Mike Sanders

KEVIN VERSINO General Manager, Rocktown Adventures Kevin Versino’s business is part sporting goods store, part outdoor adventure and exploration. It’s in his blood with a grandfather who started a bike shop in 1932 that his uncles still run and a family that’s embraced an active lifestyle. He helps others enjoy the beauty of the region with lessons and group outings in activities such as camping, kayaking and paddlesports – all with an eye towards safety and practicing new skills. He envisions himself playing a part in the urban revitalization of the region through outdoor recreation and creating memorable outdoor experiences.

LEA EVERS, AAMS, CRPS Financial Advisor, Edward Jones Lea Evers’ aim is to take the intimidating aspects out of personal finance. The Roscoe resident takes a familial-like approach as a financial advisor, gained by her observations of the financial challenges her mother faced raising three children when her father passed away. In school, she learned how smart financial planning could’ve helped her family, and since then has sought to help others. Her peers at Edward Jones nominated her for the ‘Be Like Ted’ award, named after the founder’s son – and she won. She volunteers on the Stateline Chamber board, the Rockford Women’s Club and is active with Women of Today’s Manufacturing.

LAMONT JONES Manager of Youth Sports and Community Outreach, Rockford Park District Lamont Jones wants all children in the community to have the same opportunity to participate in youth sports programs. The Rockford native enriches the children’s experiences through tickets, camps and player visits he gains through his working relationships with professional sports organizations such as the Chicago Bears and Milwaukee Bucks and national governing bodies like AAU, USATF, USA Football, NFL Flag, Jr. NBA. One favorite experience was sending 10 middle school boys and three volunteer coaches to the 2019 NFL Pro Bowl in Orlando. He hopes the life skills gained through the children’s player-coach relationships pave the way to their becoming future leaders of the community. Continued on page 19

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PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW 2021 Continued from page 18

LAURIE S. MILLER, MBA President, 2HB Human Resources & Benefits Solutions Laurie Miller started her entrepreneurial journey opening Miller & Buettner, Inc., with her mother, Mary Lou Buettner in 1998. In 2017, she, her husband Bob and friend Sherrie Sisco launched 2HB Human Resources & Benefits Solutions to provide human resources and benefits consulting. Miller serves on the Women of Today’s Manufacturing board’s executive committee and was named the 2018 Rockford Chamber Woman Business Owner of the Year. Last year, she sewed masks for dozens of clients and volunteered for the Pec Playhouse Theater as an actor, board member and costume designer.

SPITAMAN (SPITTY) TATA Program Manager, Transform Rockford Six weeks after retiring from 36 years at Woodward, engineer Spitaman Tata picked up a role at Transform Rockford. When first starting at Woodward, the native from India never imagined he’d emulate his coworkers, who had worked there for 40 years. But he put down roots through close friends, activities at the Coronado Theatre, area restaurants and outdoor venues, and volunteering at Harlem Community Center, Discovery Center, Salvation Army, the chamber’s public education committee and the Engineering, Manufacturing, Information Technology (EMITT) academy support team at Auburn High School, where his son attended.

BRIAN THOMAS Owner, Brian Thomas Photography Rockford native Brian Thomas’ career began in seventh grade when he took a photography class. He joined the yearbook staff, saved money from lawn mowing and snow shoveling jobs to buy a professional 35-millimeter camera and joined the local camera club. After photography school, he started his own business as a commercial photographer in 1991. His craft has allowed him to photograph dignitaries, company leaders and community volunteers. He’s captured the unique angles of Rockford’s biggest landmarks by airplane, blimp or drone. He’s volunteered on the Rockford Area Crime Stoppers board and the University Club scholarship committee and is a certified hospice volunteer.

ALLISON A. ALEXANDER, CPA, CFP®, CDFA® Financial Advisor and Member Owner, SAVANT wealth management Allison Alexander helps clients maintain financial stability, even when life becomes unpredictable, by helping them reassess goals during life events such as recent retirement, poor health diagnosis or new divorce or widowhood. She’s equipped with more than 30 years of experience in financial services and joined the feeonly fiduciary Savant in 2015, where she obtained her CFP designation. This qualified her to lend comprehensive and unbiased financial advice. Through her own experiences as a single mother, she co-founded Cents of Self, which empowers women to take control of their financial wellbeing. She teaches courses on financial literacy at Rock Valley College and works with the Winnebago County Medical Society Alliance to raise money for health field scholarships.

SPECIAL SECTION PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW 2021

DR. STEPHEN BARTLETT Vice President, Chief Medical Officer ,OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center At 5, Dr. Stephen Bartlett, when allowed to pick any book at an elementary school book fair, picked one on anatomy for children – and read it 30 or 40 times. The surgeon and health care executive has authored more than 230 scientific publications and given countless presentations across the globe. In 2019, he came to Rockford. After years on the East Coast, he felt a tug to return to the Midwest where he received his medical schooling. In addition to his leadership role, he still delivers patient care as a surgeon. He considers working at a catholic health system a privilege.

CONNER CHILDERS Audio-Visual Production Manager, Rockford Public Schools Conner Childers’ third grade school project using a digital camera eventually led to his current career as an audio-visual production manager. In his teen years, he worked filming weddings and events at his high school. He aims with his job to promote positivity in the Rockford schools with the 205 Vibe, a social media platform of photos and videos of RPS events, a podcast and video coverage of school board meetings and superintendent’s messages. The Ohio native likes the ‘big/small city’ feel of Rockford and all of the great restaurants, parks and attractions along the Rock River.

v Barbara Connors is editor of The VOICE.

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PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW 2021 Continued from page 19

2021 Reveal Event For more event photos, visit https://www.facebook. com/RockfordChamberOfCommerce

Continued on page 21

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PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW 2021 Continued from page 20

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R O C K F O R D

C H A M B E R

O F

C O M M E R C E

Small Business Enterprise What is your business purpose? HEATHER KELLEY SBDC

Questions to ask yourself in sparking your ‘Why?’

Business owners often communicate their business purpose to customers and employees from the outside in. Most can easily talk about what they do, the products they manufacture or the service they provide. Some can even explain how they do it, describing, for example, that they use the highest quality materials. While factual and informative, the conversation often leaves everyone feeling totally uninspired. Any company can tell you WHAT they do and HOW they do it, but a great company can tell you WHY they do it. You see, inspiration is never enough to pull you up from the ground when things get tough and you’re on the verge of giving up. You need something to motivate and push you through these arising problems or challenges. Anyone can set out a plan, even long-term, but not every one of them can pursue it ’til the end. The people who succeed are those who have clearly identified their goals and can answer WHY they’re doing this. This is applicable no matter what

industry you’re in, and especially for entrepreneurs who are running their businesses, a why statement — also known as a mission statement — is an indispensable element to upgrade the value of their enterprise.

Find Your ‘Why’ Statement The WHY concept first started with Simon Sinek’s “Start with Why.” In his book, Simon explained how the world’s greatest leaders and entrepreneurs inspired people to take actions by understanding and clarifying their organizational purpose — their “Why” — before leading the way. The sequence “Find your Why” is where Simon gives you instructions on how to find and form your Why. Your Why statement should be clear and show how your contribution — whether your products or your decisions — leaves an impact on your targeted groups or overall society. Simon and his team have provided a simple format to draft a Why statement. The format is straightforward and

applicable for any statements, so it is definitely a good option for your initial drafting. You can add modifications to your statement, but make sure to convey your purpose clearly and avoid being lengthy. Here are a few examples of WHY statements from top brands. Spotify has stated their WHY as “To unlock the potential of human creativity by giving a million creative artists the opportunity to live off their art and billions of fans the opportunity to enjoy and be inspired by these creators.” “To organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful,” stated Google. Airbnb states, “To connect millions of people in real life all over the world, through a community marketplace — so that you can Belong Anywhere.”

Questions We Recommend to Spark Your WHY ■ What inspired your business idea? ■ What’s interesting founding story?

about

your

■ What is unique about your business? ■ What problem is your company trying to solve? ■ How has your business evolved? ■ What’s your business purpose? Why does your company exist? ■ Is there a specific cause your business is supporting? ■ What do you believe in — personally and professionally? After answering these questions, don’t be afraid to share them with your most trusted employees, advisors and mentors. Seek the opinions of those who understand the company you’re building, and your business purpose, and ask them for constructive criticism. Instead, try flipping that around by thinking, acting and communicating from the inside out. That’s when true magic happens. Heather Kelley is a consultant at the Small Business Development Center at the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

July 2021

legislative

LEGISLATIVE ISSUES

Legislation signed connecting casino licenses with labor requirements

Governor JB Pritzker signed legislation on June 10 (SB 1360), effective immediately, requiring casino applicants to enter a project labor agreement when seeking a new or renewed casino license. Casino owner applicants must provide evidence that they have entered into a project labor agreement that conforms to the requirements of the Project Labor Agreements Act. The agreements will apply to employees engaged in construction and will eliminate the ability to bring in out-of-state workers at low wages. Required contents of project

Delegates meet with global companies to attract foreign investment in Illinois

labor agreements include:

■ Binding all contractors and

■ Goals for apprenticeship hours to be performed by underrepresented minorities and women.

subcontractors

■ Procedures for resolving jurisdiction labor disputes and grievances.

documents.

■ Ensuring a reliable source of skilled and experienced labor.

cover wages, benefits and other

■ Guarantees against strikes and lockouts.

agreement.

■ Allowing the selection of the lowest qualified responsible bidder, without regard to union or nonunion status at other construction sites.

application

through

the

project

appropriate

bid

specifications in all relevant bid Renewed

casino

applications

are

license

required

compensation in the project labor Any Gaming

pending before

Board

new

casino

the

Illinois

must

provide

evidence of the project labor agreement within 30 days after the effective date.

Gov. Pritzker Takes Bill Action Below are some of the bills signed by Governor JB Pritzker on June 25. HB 1932. Allows local units of government to waive any fees or costs associated with a permit, inspection or certification of occupancy required by law for construction work needed as a result of a disaster, emergency, weather event or for any reason in the interests of public safety, welfare and recovery of the community. Applies to any governing body of a county, township or municipality. Effective immediately. HB 2643. Expands unemployment insurance for noninstructional academic personnel through September 2021, and grants waivers of recovery of overpayment at no fault

of the claimant. Includes several technical codifications to IDES practices. Effective immediately. SB 499. Requires Medicaid and Group Accident and Health Insurance Policies to provide optional coverage for treatment of temporomandibular joint disorder and craniomandibular disorder. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. SB 506. Amends the Survivor Support and Traﬃcking Prevention Article of the Public Aid Code by striking the program termination date, which will allow survivors of traﬃcking to access public benefits. Effective immediately. SB 696. Amends the Child Labor Law by authorizing the ability to issue employment certificates to minors by utilizing a remote application process. Amends the Illinois Municipal Code, requires

OSHA issues Emergency Temporary Standard on COVID-19

PUBLIC COMMENTS REQUESTED THROUGH JULY 21 The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) published an Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) in the Federal Register on June 21 to protect healthcare workers from contracting COVID-19. The standard focuses on protecting workers in health care settings with 10 or more employees where suspected or confirmed coronavirus patients are treated. This includes employees in hospitals, nursing homes and assisted living facilities, as well as emergency responders, home health care workers and employees in ambulatory care settings where suspected or confirmed coronavirus patients are treated. OSHA also announced new general

industry guidance for the coronavirus that is aligned with current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance. The new ETS requires nonexempt facilities to conduct a hazard assessment and have a written plan to mitigate virus spread, and requires healthcare employers to provide some employees with N95 respirators or other personal protective equipment. OSHA has requested comment on the ETS, which by statute remains in effect for 180 days. Visit www.osha.gov/coronavirus. Comments are due on or before July 21, 2021 and can be filed at www. regulations.gov/document/OSHA2020-0004-1033

possession of special certification to install portable audio visuals. Effective immediately. SB 813. In light of decreased enrollment due to COVID-19, allows schools to use enrollment from 2020-2021 or 2019-2020 to represent the 2020-2021 school year in the calculation of average student enrollment under the evidence-based funding (EBF) formula for fiscal years 2022 through 2024. Effective immediately. SB 1096. Repeals the COVID-19 Medically Necessary Diagnostic Testing Act and requires that health plans provide coverage of diagnostic testing for enrollees in accordance with specified federal and State COVID-19 testing requirements. Sets a sunset date of Jan. 1, 2022. Effective immediately.

A delegation from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Intersect Illinois and 17 economic development partners, including the Rockford Area Economic Development Council, represented Illinois at the 2021 virtual SelectUSA Investment Summit hosted by the U.S. Department of Commerce. “Team Illinois” met on June 7 to 11 with global companies to highlight the state’s advantages for foreign direct investment (FDI). An estimated 3,000 from more than 75 countries were in attendance. More than 2,000 foreign-based companies representing 74 countries directly support more than 375,000 jobs. This makes Illinois fifth in the nation for FDI employment. Last year, Illinois welcomed 329 new investments, powering major projects in software and IT services, business and financial services, and industrial equipment. Illinois’ global presence includes strong relationships with top FDI countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, Canada and France.

SB 1847. Requires businesses with 100 employees or more to file for an equal pay certificate every two years and places penalties for Department of Labor employees who divulge information. Effective immediately. SB 2176. Creates the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act, which establishes the legal equivalent of electronic records and signatures with paper writings and manually signed signatures. Effective immediately. SB 2232. Provides the Secretary of State with emergency rulemaking authority through June 30, 2021 concerning the expiration dates of driver’s licenses, permits, identification cards, placards and decals, and vehicle registrations. Effective immediately.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

July 2021

in the news MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

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

1. John Rose

2. Kira Devin

3. Tony Guarjardo

4. Stephanie Lawton

5. Renae Stevens

6. Angie Baskin

7. Penny Lee

8. Spring Almanza

9. Mallory Nygren

10. Ashley Schinderling

11. Connie Adler

12. Toni Hinds

13. Nakia Nelson

14. Lisa DeLang

15. Marcia Rigney

16. Jeremy Romero

BOARD APPOINTMENTS

John Rose (1), vice president, CoyleKiley Insurance Agency, was nominated to serve on West Bend Mutual’s Agents advisory board for a two-year term.

NEW HIRES, PROMOTIONS, RETIREMENTS Prairie State Legal Services selected Kira Devin (2), staff attorney in the Rockford office, to serve as program coordinator of its new Justice, Equity, and Opportunity program. Fehr Graham hired Tony Guajardo (3) as an hydrogeologist in the Rockford office. Al Steely, teacher and coach, Rockford Christian Schools, is retiring after 44 years. First National Bank and Trust transitioned Stephanie Lawton (4) to vice president credit administration, Renae Stevens (5) to vice president small business development officer, Angie Baskin (6) to assistant vice president loan operations manager, Penny Lee (7) to customer support manager & officer, Spring Almanza (8) to business support supervisor and Mallory Nygren (9) to customer support supervisor. Ashley Schinderling (10) was promoted to branch manager of the Winnebago, Ill., office, Connie Adler (11) to assistant vice president commercial banking officer, Toni Hinds (12) to assistant vice president branch manager of the Beloit-Grand

17. Helen Dittmer

18. Leonary Munson

Avenue oﬃce and Nakia Nelson (13) to branch manager of the Williams Bay oﬃce.

Midway Village Museum announced Olivia Covert (21) as its new fund development manager.

Ad Vice Marketing, Inc., hired Robin Ballard, as creative director.

Rachel Cunningham (22) joined CoyleKiley as an employee benefits account manager and Chris Davenport (23) as a life insurance advisor.

Community Foundation of Northern Illinois hired Lisa DeLang (14) as administrative assistant. FurstStaffing welcomed Marcia Rigney (15) as controller and Jeremy Romero (16) as vice president and managing director of FurstExec, focusing on manager-topresident/C-level searches. Helen Dittmer (17) was promoted to vice president, chief resident engagement officer at the Wesley Willows and Peterson Meadows campuses. Leonard Munson (18) was promoted to vice president, chief ancillary services officer at Peterson Meadows. Rosecrance named Dr. Adrienne Adams (19), M.D., medical director at the Rosecrance Griffin Williamson campus. William Towns, Ph.D., was named national market president community revitalization & public housing for Gorman & Company. United Way of Rock River Valley hired Julie Bosma (20) as president and chief executive officer; succeeding Paul Logli who is retiring on June 30.

19. Dr. Adrienne Adams

20. Julie Bosma

EMPLOYEE/COMMUNITY RECOGNITIONS, AWARDS Ross Grimes (24), PG, branch manager, Fehr Graham, earned his Licensed Professional Geologist credentials. Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois named the Top Cookie Entrepreneurs of the 2020-21 Girl Scout cookie season: Rhiannon Reynolds, Oswego; Zoey Campbell, McHenry; Brooklyn Czenk, Aurora; Caitlyn Hazelwood, McHenry; Gracie Busboom, Plano; Madison Lucius, McHenry; Keke Smith, Crystal Lake; Alexis Taylor, McHenry; Amber Arnold, Aurora; Mariella Cowles, Crystal Lake, and Elizabeth Busboom, Plano. Rockford Christian Schools junior, James Bradley (25), achieved a perfect ACT score of 36. He will be senior class president next year. One year ago, the school’s cosalutatorian, Daniel Ingram, also earned a perfect score. Only 0.3 percent achieve it. Alpine Kiwanis Club awarded $15,000 in scholarships to local high school seniors raised from the club’s “2020 No Brat Days

21. Olivia Covert

22. Rachel Cunningham

Fundraiser:” Clare Hankins, Hononegah High School; Max Caltagerone, Boylan High School; Ieva Surantas, Auburn High School; Ellie Rothermel, Durand High School; Annah Dulaney, Pecatonica High School; David Lyons, Winnebago High School; Riley Shores, Hononegah High School; Taylor Thompson, East High School; Haley Stakey, Winnebago High School, and Hayden Zaluckyj, Belvidere High School. Vince Chiarelli (26) and Heather Kelley (27), business consultants, Illinois SBDC at Rockford Chamber, received their Growth Wheel Business Advisor certifications. Sybil Mueller (28), housing choice voucher programs manager, Rockford Housing Authority, won the May Director’s Spotlight. VIP Global Magazine named Kimberly Buchanan (29) as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women in Business. Rockford Area Arts Council gave annual Rockford Area Arts Awards: Steven Larsen, Rockford Symphony Orchestra (City of Rockford Distinguished Artist of the Year); Maria Castello, Rockford Dance Company (Arts Educator); Amy Newell and Jane McMillan, The Arc of Winnebago, Boone & Ogle Co (Excellence in Service to the Arts); Bryan Nambo (Film of the Year); Eddaviel Montero, Jeremy Continued on page 25

23. Chris Davenport

24. Ross Grimes

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

in the news MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

25. James Bradley

26. Vince Chiarelli

(Continued from page 24) Klonicki, Alizé Jireh, Zach Stephens, Jenny Mathews, Caitlyn Baylor, Meghan Baylor, Skyler Davis and Emily Klonicki (Innovation in the Arts); Iga Puchalska, (New Media Artist of the Year); Richard Raether (Performing Artist of the Year); Meghan and Caitlyn Baylor, Nicole Rundall Royal, Gretchen Stark, Kaysha Smith, Glasa Gottschalk and Mitchell Stolberg, Dance at the Dells, (Placemaking/Spacemaking); Scott Yates, Rockford Register Star (Public Art of the Year); Manny “Chinacat” Tang (Visual Artist of the Year); Tamir Bell (Youth Arts

July 2021

27. Heather Kelley

28. Sybil Mueller

Ambassador), and Deborah Newton (In Memoriam). Illinois Water Environment Association awarded Cheryl Kunz (30), director of marketing, AquaAerobic Systems, Inc., with the Arthur Sidney Bedell Award for extraordinary personal service to a Water Environment Federation member association. Monica Gunderson (31), sr. marketing specialist, accepted the 2021 Outstanding Young Professional Award for significant contributions to the IWEA. Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois announced the 2021 class of Gold

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

29. Kimberly Buchanan

30. Cheryl Kunz

Award Girl Scouts: Abigail Covert, Huntley; Lauren Kolasinski, Tower Lakes; Emily Lenore, Thomson; Julia Perrone, Lake in the Hills; Kiana Pouyat, North Barrington; Calliope Saban, South Elgin; Kathryn Sample, Elgin; Courtney Tietz, Oswego; Elise-Marie White, Woodstock, and Sarah Wiseman, Hawthorn Woods. Megan Thiravong received the 2021 Jane Lyons Memorial Scholarship at the Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners meeting on June 15, given to girls who enjoy golfing and are pursuing an undergraduate degree.

31. Monica Gunderson

32. Dr. Scott Trenhaile

OF GENERAL INTEREST Dr. Scott Trenhaile (32), OrthoIllinois, presented “DoubleRow Vented Anchors to Maximize Biology and Mechanics,” and served as a panelist for the course question and answer discussion at the 38th annual San Diego Shoulder Course. Lea Evers, financial advisor, Edward Jones, sponsored one of the teams for Stateline Baseball this season, with her son on the White Sox team this year. She sponsored Tablescapes, the 2021 version of settings by the Rockford Woman’s Club in June.

Pow(H)er is a conference for all who support, believe in and champion the advancement of women 2020 was an extremely difficult year – especially for women. Join us for a conference celebrating women’s achievements, supporting women through COVID recovery, and educating the community on how to advocate for and champion women in the business community. More information including speaker line up, virtual/in-person attendance opportunities, and award nominations to come.

Platinum Sponsor Edward Jones Erna Colborn, AAMS®, CRPS® Bronze Sponsor

Save the Date: October 28, 2021 Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront & Rockford Conference Center

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

July 2021

business

BUSINESS BRIEFS

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

Rockford Park District’s Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens presents Savage Gardens: The Real and Imaginary World of Carnivorous Plants, June 26 to Nov. 7, 2021. Throughout exhibit months, programming will feature carnivorous plant-related themes. Visit nicholasconservatory.com/ savagegardens. GiGi’s Playhouse Rockford participants, families, staff, volunteers and supporters joined on June 5 at Huskie Stadium at Harlem High School, along with 55 Playhouses from coast to coast to set a world record through the GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge. Though Rockford represented one of the smaller Playhouse markets in the nation, it climbed to the top of the leaderboard on May 7 towards the $100,000 goal. Chartwell Agency completed the rebrand and new website for Winnebago County Animal Services. Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity is challenging the community to fill summer Saturdays with groups to build six homes this year. No construction experience needed. Everything is provided, including lunch and a house leader to guide volunteers. Lunch donations,

specifically countries south of The Alps in the Mediterranean region in Europe. Comprehensive Community Solutions is one of 12 recipients of the 2021 Neighborhood Grant through a collaborative effort between the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois and HomeStart, to be used to create a community garden.

Discovery Center Museum increased play sessions to 2½ hours in the mornings and two hours in the afternoons. financial contributions and ReStore volunteers also needed. KMK Media Group was hired by Winnebago County to develop a social media and public relations campaign to generate awareness and applications for the county’s $8.7 million federal grant to help tenants make past-due rent payments. Over two months, more than 3,000 applications and 180,000 impressions on social media were generated. With a federal court decision this year lifting a ban on panhandling and an increasing number of people at Rockford intersections soliciting donations, Rockford Rescue Mission created Get Help cards.

Rockford Rescue Mission suggests handing out a snack and a bottle of water and one of the cards. Get them online, at 715 W. State St., or rockfordrescuemission.org. Boylan Catholic High School hosted a commencement ceremony for 182 graduating students on May 21. This year’s seniors had a 100 percent graduation rate, were offered more than $17 million in college scholarships and featured 54 National Honor Society members and 12 Illinois State Scholars. Mercyhealth is resuming in-person childbirth, newborn care, breastfeeding, and infant and child CPR classes for 2021. Register at mercyhealthssytem.org/register-forclasses. The City of Rockford in April was honored with a Governor’s Hometown Award in education in a virtual award ceremony hosted by Serve Illinois Commission for the project, “Building New Possibilities.” Guilford High School construction students built a Habitat for Humanity house from the ground up during the 2019-2020 school year. First National Bank and Trust received the highest (5-Star) rating for financial strength and stability from BauerFinancial, Inc. This is the 78th consecutive quarter it earned a recommended rating (5-Stars or 4-Stars) from Bauer. Per Mar Security Services ranked #15 in SDM’s 2021 Top 100 list for consumer dollars gained by security companies. Rockford Park District’s Alpine Hills Adventure Park is open for zip lining for the season. Reservations at www. ziprockford.com. Mosaic in Rockford seeks donations of new hygiene items dropped off at 1111 S. Alpine Road, Ste. 401, Rockford. The nonprofit requires about $3,000 a month in hygiene products. SupplyCore was awarded a five-year contract for the Maintenance, Repair, and Operations Tailored Logistics Support program for the U.S. military and federal agencies. Awarded by the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support Europe, it supports facilities located in the European Command,

KMK Media Group created a multi-media campaign for SwedishAmerican and the Region 1 Planning Council to promote a program providing long-term support to those battling opioid addictions. SwedishAmerican is one of only 14 hospitals in the state to offer it. KMK was hired by the North Suburban Library District to develop a new, interactive website. The Goldie B. Floberg Center board raised individual and corporate support from Schmeling Construction and RSM US Wealth Management to fund appreciation gifts for the non-profit’s direct support professional staff. Judson University’s Demoss Center for Worship in the Performing Arts is pleased to announce an exclusive partnership with Dark Horse Recording/Dark Horse Institute, Franklin, Tenn., recording studio. Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois opened a new Donation Express on June 9 at 4682 E. Rockton Road in Roscoe with a drive up, drop off, drive off service Mondays through Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. American Hockey League’s Board of Governors approved a schedule unification plan with all teams playing a 72-game regular-season beginning 2022 to 2023. Included is the Rockford IceHogs in the Central Division, Western Conference. While the State of Illinois Phase 5 marked a full reopening in June, Rockford Housing Authority will continue Covid 19 protocols for social distancing and mask mandates on all of its properties to protect employees, residents and guests. Covid 19 best practices will be applied in common areas such as reception areas, community rooms, conference rooms, restrooms and line/queuing until further notice. Rockford Art Museum opened its new art exhibition, Technicolor Constellations, inside the Riverfront Museum Park building, 711 N. Main St., Rockford through Sept. 26. Rockford Rescue Mission received two grants for its Works! Center and Men’s Life Recovery Program: $4,900 from J.L. Clark and $6,609 from SwedishAmerican Foundations’ Caring for our Community Grant for computers, monitors, TV, chairs, a

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

July 2021

BUSINESS BRIEFS printer and a food-prep table for certification training. SwedishAmerican, a Division of UW Health, awarded $66,798 to local not-for-profits through the foundation’s fifth-annual Caring for Our Community Grant: $17,500 to Life Decisions towards renovation of a home for mentoring at-risk and justice-involved youth, ages 15 to 23; $5,000 to Rock House Kids towards field trips for Rockford’s inner city children, ages 6 to 16; $11,189 to Rockford Barbell for its Youth Weightlifting Program; $10,000 to the Rockford Park District Foundation for its “Help Me Play” program; $6,609 to the Rockford Rescue Mission Ministries for updating computer equipment and electronic devices for the Works! Center; $4,500 to Starlight Theatre for their Camp Supernova program, and $12,000 to Stateline Youth for Christ for its Juvenile Justice Ministry program. Rock House Kids received a $5,000 grant to help fund its $545,000 expansion campaign, “Help for Today ... Hope for Eternity.” The organization is seeking $545,000 to renovate empty space into a year-round recreational facility with gymnasium, sound booth, retractable projector screen, classrooms, library and all-purpose lounge/game room. In June 2020 Midway Village Museum received a $2,873 grant from the Illinois Historical Records Advisory Board to digitize 1,500 images and documents for its online collection at www.midwayvillage.com/digitalcollections.html. Per Mar Security Services is expanding with more than 130 positions available across its 25 locations in the Midwest: sales, technicians, operations managers, security oﬃcers, monitoring agents and customer care agents: www. permarsecurity.com/careers.

YMCA of Rock River Valley offers free child care at the SwedishAmerican Riverfront YMCA facility to allow adults to receive their COVID-19 vaccines. Appointments only for Kids’ Care area. Limit of two, two-hour child care appointments per family (one for each COVID-19 shot). Thanks to a partnership with The Pregnancy Care Center, City First Church on June 17 hosted a 17th food distribution that included baby diapers and wipes. Over the past year, it’s given away almost two million pounds of food to more 115,000 individuals in partnership with Northern Illinois Food Bank. More than a dozen graduates of Rockford Rescue Mission’s Life Recovery Programs for men and women were honored at a special Restoration Celebration on June 17. The mission holds two public celebrations each year — one in spring, the other in fall. For the first time in six years, Saint Anthony College of Nursing will not implement a tuition increase for the upcoming school year. The college received assistance from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, which includes a Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund that provides emergency funding to higher education. Oﬃce of the Illinois State Fire Marshal announced the recipients of the 2021 Small Equipment Grant Program with $3.3 million awarded to 149 fire departments/districts. In Winnebago County: Blackhawk Fire Protection District, $26,000; New Milford Fire Protection District, $26,000, and Win Bur Sew Fire Protection District, $22,008. More than 120 people participated in Remedies Renewing Lives’ 14th annual golf play day on June 10 at Aldeen Golf Course. Whitney Martin

Don Bein, WWII Veteran receives high-honor medals Captain Dylan Hedrick of the National Guard presents high-honor military medals on June 25 to Don Bein, a Peterson Meadows resident. The two struck up a friendship after Captain Hedrick came to visit his mother Jan, a resident at Peterson Meadows, and heard Bein’s stories of his time serving with the Army during WWII at the Battle of the Bulge, 1944-1945. Bein received the Military Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Army of Occupational Medal, American Campaign Medal and European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal. and Elliot Grandia, WTVO were Master of Ceremonies. Dan O’Shea gave a special presentation about the close relationship that Remedies shared with the Rockford Police Department when he served as Chief of Police. Rockford teachers are eligible to apply for funds through UScellular’s $100,000 Donors Choose program. It provides a 1:1 funding match for STEM-focused classroom projects of

$1,000 or less in communities where 90 percent or more of students are from low-income households in regions that UScellular serves. Visit www.donorschoose.org. Rockford Park District hosts Golf Sunday Fun Days every Sunday after 3 p.m., through Oct. 31 at Ingersoll and Sinnissippi golf courses. Reserve a tee time at golfrockford.org. Walk-ups welcome, based on availability at the course.

Are you a Member with News to Share? Send news releases and other items of interest to the business community to: The VOICE, Rockford Chamber of Commerce 308 W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, IL 61101

Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding publication

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

July 2021

R O C K F O R D

C H A M B E R

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C O M M E R C E

economic development Cybersecurity Strengthening Supply hains throught reshoring and estimated $443 billion in economic to provide these services and sourcing Manufacturers valueAncould be driven by reshoring over of raw materials, which will strengthen Cybersecurity is frequently in the news and as the Internet of Things and connective devices increase, it is critical to secure these systems. Cisco, a developer and manufacturer of networking hardware and software, defines cybersecurity as the practice of protecting systems, networks and programs from digital attacks. These cyberattacks are usually aimed at accessing, changing or destroying sensitive information; extorting money from users, or interrupting normal business processes. Being a cybersecure company requires involvement from all levels, from the board of directors to the support staff. Deloitte, a company that offers industryleading audit & assurance, consulting, tax, and risk and financial advisory services, has outlined six key themes for cyber risk in advanced manufacturing including: ■ Executive board engagement, which outlines the need for ownership ■ Talent and human capital, which is seen as the weakest link in the cybersecurity chain ■ Intellectual property includes top data protection concerns ■ Industrial control systems ■ Connected products ■ Industrial ecosystem As of a Department of Defense interim rule that became effective on Nov. 30, 2020, all top-level defense manufacturers must require their suppliers to document assessment action towards complying with NIST 800171. This is the new baseline of what is called the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). CMMC is being phased in between 2020 and

2025 and represents one of the strongest cybersecurity protocols in any industry. More than a third of all cyber-attacks against manufacturers cause more than $1,000,000 in damage. According to the Illinois Defense Industry Adjustment Program, the region sees approximately $330,000,000 in defense spending as of 2018. The Rockford Region is one of the five communities in the state to have clear links to the defense manufacturing industry. Manufacturers in our region have placed cybersecurity at a 70/100 priority, in the recent RAEDC Manufacturing Survey from April 2021. IMEC also conducted a survey of manufacturers in Cook County, which highlighted urgent needs of manufacturers released in 2021. Companies with 50 or more employees showed an increase in concerns such as investing in technology and cybersecurity where companies with fewer than 20 employees sighted growth as the primary concern. Datto, a leading provider of IT solutions delivered by Managed Service Providers, reported that 32 percent of all ransomware attacks are targeted at the construction and manufacturing industries. This is concerning because Small- and Medium-Sized Manufacturers (SMMs) are often less prepared to handle a cyber event due to a hacker, natural disaster or a business resource loss. National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) offers information that manufacturers can begin implementing prior to an incident. There are ways to be more cybersecure, including working with partners such as the RAEDC, NIST and other organizations that offer courses, seminars or certifications.

State of the Market with Chicago Industrial Journal Properties Join the Rockford Area Economic Development Council, I-39 Logistics Corridor and Chicago Industrial Journal Properties for a State of the Market conversation. This is an in-person and virtual event, 7:30 a.m. to noon, on July 23 at Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront located, 416 S. Main St., Rockford, IL 61101. The keynote speaker will be Illinois State Senator Dave Syverson (35th district). Topics include: ■ State of oﬃce, industrial, retail, hospitality, housing, healthcare ■ Capital markets update ■ Overview of market conditions and opportunities in north-central Illinois ■ Business parks, infrastructure, land investments and development ■ Transportation and logistics Registration is available at RockfordIL.com/events.

the next 12 months. The Thomas Index Report has released the 2021 State of North American Manufacturing Annual Report revealing statistics from manufacturers and industrial sectors in North America. Key observations include 83 percent of manufacturers are likely or extremely likely to reshore, which increased from 54 percent, citing the same intention in March 2020. This shift presents a great economic opportunity for companies

established supply chains. Over the course of 2020, industrial companies added approximately 11 new suppliers to their supply chains. Companies that are evaluating new suppliers state their most important factors include availability and lead times, followed closely by price per unit/ service and quality certifications. Learn more about the reshoring transition at RockfordIL.com/news.

MAC2021 GEARING UP FOR A GREAT EXPERIENCE Innovation and technology are the heart and soul of aerospace. MAC2021 is continuing to strengthen supply chains, create connections and share relevant information key to the aerospace industry. Join us on Oct. 5 at the Larry Morrissey Conference Center at Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront! For more information on how you and your company can participate, visit MidwestAerospaceConference.com or email Anna Garrison at AGarrison@RockfordIL.com. This event is sponsored by prime sponsors: Collins Aerospace, GE Aviation and Woodward, Inc.; premier sponsors: Anchor Harvey, and supporting sponsors: American Standard Circuits, ARCtronics, Clinkenbeard, LTL Co., and Superior Joining Technologies, Inc.

MANUFACTURING WEEK 2021 Career Education Associates of North Central Illinois (CEANCI) is planning Manufacturing Day 2021 and needs manufacturers to host high school students for a facility tour in October. Companies that are interested in participating should contact Bethany Meade, b.mead@ceanci.org or 815.921.8471. MFG Day — Manufacturing Day — helps show the reality of modern manufacturing careers by encouraging companies and educational institutions around the nation to open their doors to students and teachers. As manufacturers seek to fill 4.6 million high-skill, high-tech and highpaying jobs over the next decade, MFG Day empowers manufacturers to come together to address their collective challenges so they can help their communities and future generations thrive.

Connect with us We love sharing your good news and celebrating the successes of your organization. Connect with us on our social networks and help us spread the word about your good news, upcoming events and employees.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

July 2021

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS Thank you to members who renewed with the Rockford Chamber of Commerce in May 2021 Anchor Wealth Management Allstate - J Ellis Agency American Red Cross, Northwest Illinois Chapter American Solutions for Business (Formerly Skyward Promotions) Barrick, Switzer, Long, Balsley, Van Evera, LLP Behr Iron & Metal, An Alter Company Bourn & Koch, Inc. Brian Thomas Photography, Inc. Cellusuede Products, Inc. Chuck Brauer Trucking Inc. CIT Trucks Court Street United Methodist Discount Med Direct Discovery Center Museum of Rockford Ege WorkSmart Solutions, PC Employee Benefit Association of Northern Illinois Fairfield by Marriott/Rockford First Community Credit Union First Insurance Group Goldie B. Floberg Center Greater Rockford Italian American Association/Festa Italiana Gruno’s Diamonds Hampton Properties (Leasing Oﬃce) Helen Hill Communication Hilton Garden Inn Horizons Inc. I. Spinello Locksmiths and Security, Div. of Nate, Inc. Imperien In Home Medical Group LLC John Morrissey Accountants, Inc. Knopp Construction Inc. Lawn Care by Walter, Inc.

LM Sheet Metal & Service, Inc. Lucas Group CPA’s + Advisors, LLC Manpower Marco Meridian - Loves Park Meridian - Rockford Midway Village Museum Northern Illinois Chapter, National Electrical Contractors Association Northern Illinois Optical Company Northwest Bank of Rockford Per Mar Security Planet Fitness - Loves Park Planet Fitness - Rockford R. J. Bowers Distributors, Inc. RAC Adjustment Company RAMP Raymond James & Associates Restore Counseling & Recovery Rockford Consulting & Brokerage Rockford Heat Treaters, Inc. Rockford Metal Polishing Co. Rockford Mutual Insurance Company Rockford Network of Professional Women Rockford Spine Center Rockford Township Siena on Brendenwood Sosnowski Szeto, LLP Staff Management, Inc. The Arc of Winnebago, Boone and Ogle Counties The Atrium Memory Care Community The Salvation Army Todd Transit, Inc. Two Men and a Truck US Bank Youngberg Industries, Inc.

on digital

MEMBER PICS

Ethnic Heritage Museum hosts a ribbon cutting on June 10 celebrating the new gazebo on its campus and dedicated to long-time community supporters Barb and Dick Berman.

Necchi-New Home Sewing Center holds a grand opening ribbon cutting on June 10 at 5301 E. State St. Ste. 110, Rockford, under its new owner Chris Sherrard.

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS AIRCRAFT GEAR CORPORATION Manufacturer of aftermarket auto parts; components and assemblies for auto, agricultural, energy and other industries. 611 Beacon St., Loves Park, IL 61111 1500 11th Ave., 61104 Jon Reidy 815-877-7473 www.aircraftgearcorp.com

BOTTUMMS, LLC Disposable Diaper Supply & Home Delivery. Low Cost, Premium, DISPOSABLE Baby Diapers Sold In Singles, Package or Box. 3816 Auburn St., 61101 Jonathan Bell http://www.bottumms.com

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF ROCKFORD Improving the quality of life for youth in our community, regardless of sex, race or economic background. 1040 N. 2nd St., Ste. 1, 61107 Denise Noe http://www.rgreatfutures.org

DON DANIELS Health Strategy, Physician Services and Operations Don Daniels 815-209-8711

SIMPLY WELLNESS CHIROPRACTIC Chiropractic Services 7117 Crimson Ridge Dr., Ste. 1, 61107 Sadie Tomlinson www.simplywellnesschiro.com

SOCIAL KAT Boutique Social Media Management + PR Firm P.O. Box 94 Winnebago, IL 61088 Katryna Kirby www.socialkatco.com

ST. CROIX HOSPICE Devoted to providing the highest quality hospice services possible in coordination with your primary physician and our team of experts. 3815 N. Mulford Road #4, 61114 Traci Honings www.stcroixhospice.com

NAACP Rockford Branch hosts a ribbon cutting ceremony on June 17 celebrating renovated office space at Washington Park Community Center, 3617 Delaware St.

JULY MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES Thank you to our members celebrating their anniversaries with the Rockford Chamber of Commerce

35-YEAR MEMBERS

10-YEAR MEMBERS

20-YEAR MEMBERS

5-YEAR MEMBERS

Lifescape Community Services/ Community Kitchen, Inc. Rock Road Companies, Inc. Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC) Winnebago County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate)

Hulsebus Rockford Chiropractic Rockford Spine Center Smeja Homestead Foundation Broadway Florist Samco Sales & Marketing Inc.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

July 2021

community

COMMUNITY EVENTS & WEBINARS Rockford Chamber members appear bolded. Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. 2nd St., Rockford, hosts free Garden Walk Tours, 10:30 a.m. to noon, July 22, Aug. 26 and Sept. 23, weather permitting. Registration required at nicholasconservatory. com/activities or 815-987-8858.

July 2021 TUESDAY, JULY 1 The Parks Chamber presents Long Play Music Fest, July 1 to 4, at Rivets Stadium, 4503 Interstate Blvd, Loves Park. Features two stages, more than 20 bands, fireworks, carnival and local food vendors and artisans. Gin Blossoms, Hairbangers Ball and Blooze Brothers on July 2; Jeff Tweedy, Too Hype Crew and Catfight on July 3, and Cheap Trick with 7th Heaven on July 4. Visit StarEvents.com. University of Illinois Extension hosts Wizarding World of 4-H School, ages 6 and up, 9 a.m. to noon, at Prince of Peace Church in Rockton. Pre-registration at go. illinois.edu/jsw or 815-986-4357.

SATURDAY, JULY 3 Rockford Symphony Orchestra returns to the RVC Starlight Theatre stage at Rock Valley College, 8 p.m., for its Patriotic Pops Concert. New this year, lawn seats are available for $5 per person. Tickets at 815-9212160, www.rockfordsymphony.com or www.rockvalleycollege.edu. Kids are welcome to work with artist, Eddaviel Montero, to help install the Rockford Public Library’s “Reading Colors Our World” mural. Unveiling at 3 p.m., in a ceremony featuring local children’s book author, Karla Clark, and special dedication by City of Rockford poet laureate, Christine Swanberg. Visit www.RockfordPublicLibrary.org.

THURSDAY, JULY 8 Midway Village Museum hosts Village Artists, a DIY art project, “The 1905 Red Barn,” acrylic on wood with instructor Angie Scordato at 6 p.m. Register at tinyurl. com/1905redbarndiy or 815-3979112. Rockford Park District presents Music in the Park: American English Beatles Tribute, 7 p.m., a prime concert at Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 1401 N. Second St., Rockford. Tickets $5 at rockfordparkdistrict.org/ soundsofsummer.

FRIDAY, JULY 9 Friday Night Flix presents Field of Dreams at Davis Park, 320 S. Wyman St., Rockford. Grounds open at 7 p.m., with the movie beginning at dusk. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Event cancellations announced no later than 2 p.m., the day of the event on Facebook.

MONDAY, JULY 12 Northern Illinois Hospice hosts Creative Expressions for Grief Support, an eight-part grief support

FRIDAY, JULY 23 Discovery Center Museum hosts Engineering Escapades, a Family Fun Day events, 10 to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. Call 815-963-6769 or www. discoverycentermuseum.org for reservations.

SATURDAY, JULY 24 Discovery Center Museum hosts Engineering Escapades. Participants engineer a boat that floats, construct a flashlight and create flying contraptions. webinar series, Mondays, July 12 to Aug. 30. To register, call Jen Conley, 815-312-8338, jconley@niha.org or website northernillinoishospice.org/ events.

SATURDAY, JULY 17

Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful, State Representative Maurice West and Barbara Olson Center of Hope host a Super Shredder Day, 9 a.m. to noon, at 4665 Hydraulic Road, Rockford. Two bankers boxes of papers accepted. No paperclips, binders or staples.

THURSDAY, JULY 29 Rockford Park District presents Music in the Park: Steely Dane, 7 p.m., a prime concert at Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 1401 N. Second St. Tickets $5 at rockfordparkdistrict.org/ soundsofsummer.

LADIWORKZ presents A Conversation With Industry Professionals About the Radio, Music & Film Industry, a multi-media event. Virtual, 11 a.m. to noon, or in-person, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 730 N. Church St., Rockford. Participants include entertainment agent/producer Dr. Syleecia Thompson, actor Rolando Boyce, actor Vincent M. Ward, radio super producer Lisa “E,” recording group manager Leon Benford and theater director/ producer/actor Tim Rhoze. Seating limited. Contact Brandi at 815-7424754 or info@ladiworkz1.com.

Alpine Kiwanis Club announced its 50th-annual Alpine Kiwanis Brat Days, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., at Blain’s Farm & Fleet, 7300 E. Riverside Blvd., and U-Haul, East State Street and Mulford Road, Rockford. Also 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., on July 31. Drive-through and walk up for carryout only, both locations. Visit www.alpinekiwanis-il.org.

Rockford Park District hosts In the Outdoors: Kishwaukee Critters, 9 to 11 a.m., at Atwood Center, 2685 New Milford School Road. Advance registration at www.atwoodpark.org/ programs.

Discovery Center Museum hosts Olympic Challenge, a Family Fun Day events, 10 to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. Call 815-963-6769 or www. discoverycentermuseum.org for reservations.

Truman’s Ridge performs, 6 p.m., as part of a 2021 Summer Outdoor Concert Series, 6 p.m., in the Rockford Public School administrative parking lot across from Katie’s Cup.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 21 University of Illinois Extension presents Preserve Like a Pro, a Zoom webinar with presenter, Kristin Bogdonas, at noon. Register in advance at go.illinois.edu/jsw or 815-986-4357.

THURSDAY, JULY 22 Rockford Park District presents Music in the Park: Blooze Brothers, 7 p.m., a prime concert at Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 1401 N. Second St. Tickets $5 at rockfordparkdistrict.org/ soundsofsummer.

FRIDAY, JULY 30

August 2021 MONDAY, AUGUST 2 Designs are due today for 89.5 WNIJ’s Commemorative Design Contest celebrating 30 years of broadcasting. One design per person. Must include “WNIJ” and “89.5 FM” prominently, be a visual interpretation of public radio, have a minimum 2,000 x 2,000 resolution. Visit WNIJ.org.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 6 Friday Night Flix presents Raya and The Last Dragon at Davis Park, 320 S. Wyman St., Rockford. Grounds open at 7 p.m., with movie beginning at dusk. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Event cancellations announced no later than 2 p.m., the day of the event on Facebook.

Discovery Center Museum hosts Splatter Art, a Family Fun Day events, 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. Call 815-963-6769 or www. discoverycentermuseum.org for reservations.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 7 Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful hosts its Mud Volleyball fundraising event, 8 a.m., at Riverside Park, 100 River St., Roscoe, and is looking for volunteers throughout the day with varying shifts. Please contact Jean at Jean@knib.org.

MONDAY, AUGUST 9 Stateline Youth for Christ hosts its annual Golf Outing, 11:30 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., at the Mauh-Nah-TeeSee Club. Register at www. statelineyfc.org/new-events.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12 Midway Village Museum hosts Village Artists, a DIY art project, “The Woodward Millhouse,” with instructor Angie Scordato at 6 p.m. Register at tinyurl.com/ woodwardmillhousediy or 815-3979112.

FRIDAY AUGUST 13 LADIWORKZ hosts its Business Owners Connect Expo, Aug. 13 and 14, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Aug. 15, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 730 N. Church St., Rockford. Includes classes, speakers, entertainment, vendors and food trucks. Call 815-742-4754.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 24 University of Illinois Extension offers a Certiﬁed Food Protection Manager Course, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., on Aug. 24 and 29, at Winnebago County Farm Bureau, 1925 S. Meridian Road, Rockford. Meets the Illinois Department of Public Health’s Food Service Sanitation Code requirements. Registration required at 815-986-4357 or go. illinois.edu/jsw.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 28 Rockford Park District hosts In the Outdoors: Camping 101: Creating an Outdoor Oasis, 9 to 11 a.m., at Atwood Center, 2685 New Milford School Road, Rockford. Advance registration at www.atwoodpark.org/programs. Fred & Ginger acoustic duo perform, 5 p.m., as part of a 2021 Summer Outdoor Concert Series, 6 p.m., in the Rockford Public School administrative parking lot across from Katie’s Cup.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

CHaMBER

ADVERTISERS INDEX

CHAMBER EVENTS & WEBINARS Rockford Chamber members appear bolded. Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members.

JULY, 2021 THURSDAY, JULY 15 Business Women’s Council, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Location TBA Sponsored by Associated Bank. Ribbon Cutting at Edward Jones – Joan Van Allen, 10 – 11 a.m. at 5919 Forest Hills Road.

FRIDAY, JULY 16 IGNITE Lunch with a Leader, Noon-1 p.m., PURI School of Business, Room 124, 5100 E. State St.,Rockford. Features Whitney Martin, WQRF-TV/ WTVO-TV. Sponsored by Wintrust Commercial Banking.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 21 Breakfast Buzz, 8:00-9:30 a.m. Location TBA. Featuring Mary Cacioppi, One Body Collaborative Workplace Stability, “Employee Retention and Performance in Your Economically Diverse Workforce” Sponsored by RSM.

TUESDAY, JULY 27 Ribbon Cutting at Ameriprise Financial - Luminaire Financial Group, 3 p.m., Location TBA.

THURSDAY, JULY 29 Ribbon Cutting at Remedies Renewing Lives, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at 220 Easton Parkway.

July 2021

AUGUST, 2021 THURSDAY, AUGUST 5 Ribbon Cutting at Allen Galluzzo Hevrin Leake, LLC, 2 p.m. at 6735 Vistagreen Way, Suite 110.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12 Heartbeat of Healthcare, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.,Prairie Street Brewing Co., 200 Prairie Street, Suite 203 Rockford. Dr. Alex Stagnaro-Green, Regional Dean of the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford will provide us with an interesting peek inside the academic side of healthcare and the impact University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford has on our community and workforce development. Sponsored by BMO Harris Bank (presenting), Humana and Rosecrance (gold), Comcast Business and Van Matre Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital (silver).

Alden Debes & Park Strathmoor . . . .15

Rockford Chamber of Commerce

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23, 25, 26, 27, 31,32

Center for Sight & Hearing . . . . . . . .14 Connect Hearing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Curran Contracting - Royer Asphalt Paving, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Government Aﬀairs Council, 7:30 a.m., at Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St., Rockford. Sponsored by AT&T.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18 Breakfast Buzz, 8-9:30 a.m. Location TBA. Sponsored by RSM.

Rockford Public Library . . . . . . . . . . .18 Rock Valley Credit Union . . . . . . . . . .21

Fehr Graham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Schmeling Construction Co. . . . . . . .11

Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP . . . . . . . . .4

Stillman Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Illinois Bank & Trust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Studiogwa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Thayer Lighting, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Mercyhealth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Union Savings Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Northern Public Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 OrthoIllinois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Van Matre Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital . . . . . . . . . . .14

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

Wipfli LLP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

VOICE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 13

Rockford Park District . . . . . . . . .16, 21

the

Chamber Staﬀ / Call 815-987-8100 ..........................................Direct Line Caitlin Pusateri, Executive Vice President ..............................................815-316-4337 Heidi M. Garner, Chief Operating Oﬃcer .................................... 815-316-4312 Lynette Jacques, Vice President, Member Investment .................... 815-316-4317 Jeff Bailey, Membership Development Executive ..................................815-316-4336 Olivia Guzman, Administrative Assistant/Customer Service Rep..........815-987-8100 Doug Hessong, Director of Publications & Technology ................... 815-316-4338 Carmen Kellerman, Program & Event Coordinator .............................815-316-4302 Kristin Muehlfelder, Member Relations...................................................815-316-4315 Doug Rand, Accounting Manager/Controller ............................... 815-316-4316 Joan Sundvall, Membership Contact Coordinator ......................... 815-316-4320 Einar K. Forsman, President & CEO .......................................... 815-987-8100 Edward Caceres, Director, Small Business Development Center ....................................................815-987-8100

CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS & OFFICERS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

DIRECTORS Kimberly Blascoe Wipfli LLP

Chair of the Board Dan Ross Community Foundation of Northern Illinois

LaVonne Brown Savant Wealth Management

Vice Chair Jean Crosby Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Crosby Starck Real Estate Vice Chair Don Daniels SwedishAmerican, A Division of UW Health Treasurer Amy Ott Boylan Catholic High School

Samuel J. Castree Staff Management, Inc. Lesly Couper workplace Doug Curry Stenstrom Construction Group Rebecca Epperson Chartwell Agency Eric Fulcomer, Ph.D. Rockford University Ira Grimmett Collins Aerospace Tim Honquest Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory

Michael F. Iasparro Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP

Alex Stagnaro-Green, MD, MHPE, MHA Univ. of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford

Carly LaMonica LaMonica Beverages, Robert Young Inc. Midwest Packaging and Container Kris L. Kieper Machajewski EX-OFFICIO YWCA Northwestern DIRECTORS Illinois Einar K. Forsman Mike Paterson President & CEO, Mid-West Family Rockford Chamber Broadcasting of Commerce Joel A. Prah John Groh Mercyhealth Rockford Area Denise Sasse Convention & RSM US LLP Visitors Bureau John Schuster Rosecrance Health Network Teresa Sharp American Precision Supply, Inc.

AUGUST VOICE SPECIAL SECTIONS Transforming Education (Fostering Talent for the New Economy)

Self Improvement

(Motivation & Inspiration, Stress Management, Physical Health, Career Growth)

For information on advertising, call 815

987-8100

July Voice 2021

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Small Business Enterprise - SBDC

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