August Voice 2021 by Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce

the

PIRANHA CUTS DEEP

A POSITIVE MOODY OUTLOOK

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August 2021 | Volume 34 | No. 8

of the rockford business community

Water, water, everywhere

BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE

but not a drop to drink

In today’s world, it can feel like business leaders are surrounded by information, but aren’t able to actually absorb much due to a lack of time, an overabundance of materials, and a need to vet the information’s source. As businesses and individuals move forward after a year+ of pandemic related disruption, there is a constant need for new — new ways of doing things, of communicating, of hiring, of attracting clients, of retaining clients — the list goes on. But among the litany of new, there is a real opportunity — an opportunity to be strategic. So often, organizations do things the way they’ve always been done because nothing forces them to change. It’s hard to stop doing what works well enough to try to examine something that can potentially work even better. While the epic disruption that is COVID-19 certainly has been tragic in a multitude of ways, it has also forced businesses, communities and individuals to re-examine much of their “normal,” which, can provide an opportunity for strategic and intentional work. However, the ever-changing and somehow stagnant pace of today’s life keeps business owners and leaders continually firefighting and pivoting to

deal with the next curve ball. Taking the time to find vetted, relevant resources to aide in strategic work or inspire new ideas can continually fall to the bottom of the to-do list. It’s easy to put it off until tomorrow until suddenly, it’s 2022 and the opportunity to make intentional change has been muddied with short-term thinking and decision making. As a service to members and in fulfillment of the mission to Lead Business Growth, the Rockford Chamber has curated a resource guide to assist in strategic and intentional recovery for businesses. A beacon of light to help guide the journey. We encourage business leaders to utilize this resource to jump-start their strategic work. Download a copy of “Leading Business Recovery: A Curated Resource Guide for the Rockford, IL Business Community for Intentional & Strategic Recovery Post-COVID-19 Pandemic at rockfordchamber.com. v

About the COVID-19 What to Expect One or Two Shots COVID-19 Vaccine

COVID-19 FACTS It can cause serious, life-threatening complications. There is no way to know how it will affect you.

THE VOICE IS PUBLISHED BY

More than 400 people in Winnebago County have been reported to have died from COVID-19. More than 26,000 people in Winnebago County have been reported to have had COVID-19.

Join the Chamber on Social Media

The Voice is online at rockfordchamber.com

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Injection Site Reaction:

Pain / Swelling Redness

Rest of Your Body:

Fatigue

Muscle Pain

Headache

Vaccine Facts You cannot get COVID-19 from the vaccine. 70,000+ people took part in clinical trials to ensure the vaccines are safe and effective. Even if you had COVID-19, you still should get vaccinated.

GET THE VACCINE TO … • Avoid getting the virus • Avoid getting seriously ill, if you get the virus • Help protect the people around you.

As of March 18, 2021, more than 88,361 doses of the vaccine have been given in Winnebago County.

First National Bank and Trust Company hosts its annual Back to School supply drive through Aug. 20. All types of school supplies may be dropped off at any FNBT location, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. Financial donations also will be accepted, written out to “School Supplies Drive” and mailed to First National Bank and Trust, 345 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, WI 53511. Visit www.bankatfirstnational.com/ locations.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

HEARTBEAT OF HEALTHCARE

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12 PRAIRIE STREET BREWING CO. For more information, see page 15 SPONSORED BY

GOODWILL EXPANDS FREE GED PROGRAM TO BOONE COUNTY Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois is bringing its adult basic education program to Belvidere. Registration is open for the free Boone County Goodwill GoodGRADS program for students of all GED levels, Mondays through Thursdays, Sept. 7 to Dec. 16 at Belvidere Salvation Army, 422 S. Main St. The program helps students prepare to take the GED exam with an interactive classroom learning style, one-on-one training with small class sizes and student scholarships to pay for testing. It helps students with various barriers including transportation, childcare, financial management, social services and housing. Register at 815-965-3795 or www.goodwillni. org/educational-programs.

ROCKFORD ICEHOGS ANNOUNCE 2021-22 REGULAR SEASON SCHEDULE The Rockford IceHogs announced its 72-game, 202122 regular-season schedule. The IceHogs open on Friday, Oct. 15 against the Grand Rapids Griffins at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Mich. Opening Night at BMO Harris Bank Center is Saturday, Nov. 6 against the Griffins. The organization, an American Hockey League affiliate, is in its 23rd season of hockey. It’s the first under the ownership of the Chicago Blackhawks.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2021

CHAIRMAN’S PERSPECTIVE

DAN ROSS Rockford Chamber Board Chairman

The business case for corporate philanthropy

This is one of those fun opportunities where my day job and my volunteer life come together as I discuss the upsides of corporate philanthropy. I have the great good fortune of spending my days helping donors realize their philanthropic goals, and in turn, I also get to experience firsthand the positive impact the generosity of our donors is having on those in our community. Every day I am able to see lives changed in big and small ways due to the caring of individuals around us. But does, or should, philanthropy stop at the individual level? I believe the answer is clearly no, but for more than just the obvious reason of it being the right thing to do. I was blessed to be president of a company in Rockford that had a long history, established decades before I arrived, of giving back. My predecessors embraced a couple of fundamental truths: 1. The success of our company was inextricably linked to the success of the

communities we served, and 2. It was our responsibility to give back to those that made us successful. We also realized that our corporate philanthropy did not stop around the board table, rather it was a part of the culture of who we were as a company, and we encouraged all our employees to give of their time, treasure and talent. But does this approach make business sense? If you read my article in The VOICE two months ago, you know that I have a habit of quoting old-school business thinkers, and I am going to do so again strictly to point out how the world has changed. The famous economist Milton Friedman stated decades ago that the only “social responsibility of business” is to “increase its profits” and that philanthropy should be left at the individual level. Porter and Kramer argue, in the Harvard Business Review article “The Competitive Advantage of Corporate Philosophy,” that Friedman’s observation does not hold water in today’s world. Specifically, they

state, that “companies do not function in isolation from the society around them. In fact, their ability to compete depends heavily on the circumstances of the locations where they operate.” There is no greater example of this than workforce. Businesses are wholly reliant on the educational success of their communities to meet their employment needs. There is growing evidence to suggest that employee engagement and productivity are greatly enhanced through corporate philanthropy. Givinga, in the 2018 article “Corporate Philanthropy Benefits,” indicates that up to 78 percent of employees want to engage with corporate social responsibility initiatives and that, according to a Gallup poll, employees who are engaged in corporate philanthropy are 21 percent more productive than their counterparts who are not engaged. Employee engagement in corporate philanthropy can come in the form of opportunities to give, paid time off to volunteers, and corporate matching dollars, just to name a few examples. Corporate philanthropy can improve brand awareness and reputation, which can lead to enhanced revenue opportunities. Giving in the name of the company or allowing employees to roll up their sleeves on company time and get involved with philanthropic endeavors lets your potential customers know who your company is and what you believe in. The Givinga

article, described here, references two separate studies that show that 87 percent of consumers would purchase a product simply because a company advocated for an issue they cared about and 90 percent of consumers would, when choosing between two brands of equal value, choose the cause-branded product. Finally, and I am certainly no tax expert, there is also a financial case to be made for tax deductions at the corporate level for charitable giving. It is not a dollar-fordollar deduction but, taken in conjunction with the other benefits described above, this is certainly an added benefit. Dan Ross is chairman of the Rockford Chamber and president of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois.

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

August 2021

proﬁle

MEMBER PROFILE

Piranha: SINKING ITS TEETH INTO INDUSTRIAL FABRICATION SUCCESS

By Paul Anthony Arco When it comes to industrial metal fabrication equipment, one of the industry’s leaders can be found right here in Rockford. Piranha is a worldwide manufacturer of industrial metal fabrication equipment that includes a vast portfolio of product lines ranging from cutting and shearing, punching, bending and roll forming. Customers vary from small fabricators to bigfoots like Caterpillar, Case IH and Great Dane. Piranha has more than 25,000 machines installed across the world. Piranha is based in Rockford with sales, service and engineering offices located throughout the U.S., Canada and China. In 1974, the Piranha ironworker machine was launched by Mega Manufacturing in Hutchinson, Kan. In 2003, Mega acquired Bertsch Co., a bending roll manufacturer founded in 1879 and based in Cambridge City, Ind. The following year, Mega acquired Rockford’s W.A. Whitney, founded in 1907 and known for its rich history with plasma, punching and laser cutting machines. In 2015, the company made the strategic decision to consolidate all brands under the Piranha brand name. “It’s been an interesting revolution,”

said J.P. Claxton, president of Piranha. “We were really a platform of three niche product categories – ironworker, punch plasma and bending rolls. After the great financial recession in 2008, we changed our focus to expand our product portfolio into more mainstream segments of the market by developing a complete line of fiber laser and plasma cutting tables, press brakes and shearing machines – all capable of processing thin gauge sheet metal to over 1” plate. We effectively repositioned the company to have one of the broadest product lines of metal fabrication equipment in the world.”

Robust Growth Plan Claxton’s entry into the metal fab world took place in 2007, when he joined Piranha. Claxton’s background was in mergers and acquisition work. “I knew nothing about fabrication equipment when I joined the company, but I rolled up my sleeves and got to know and develop the team,” said Claxton, who was named president five years ago. “Working with our team and executing our strategy is the fun part.” One of Piranha’s toughest decisions came in 2009, when the company

decided to consolidate and relocate its manufacturing operations from Hutchinson to its current 200,000 square-foot facility on 14 acres along the Rock River, just south of downtown Rockford. Sixty of the company’s 80 employees work at the facility, while the rest are scattered around the world. “We looked at the strategic implication of moving,” Claxton said. “But we felt like it was the right decision to leave our hometown for Rockford. It was difficult, but in the long run, it was the right thing to do for the business and the brand.” Piranha’s team in Rockford includes technical, operational engineering and customer service positions, while human resources and accounting teams work from Hutchinson. “I feel like the team in Rockford and the rest of the organization have risen to the challenge,” Claxton said. “They are really supportive, dedicated and focused on the brand.” On average, Piranha sells 500 pieces of equipment each year. Most sales ship from inventory while certain larger machine orders can take up to six to nine months. “We produce everything from punch and

die sets to 12-kilowatt fiber lasers and everything in between,” Claxton said. Piranha survived the COVID pandemic with a few bumps and bruises. “March and April were a big challenge, but we navigated it and had a pretty good second half of the year,” Claxton said. “We saw a pickup of insourcing production by our customers. They were bringing more business in house instead of sourcing product from down the street or overseas.” Claxton predicts Piranha will be adding employees, due to the company’s anticipated growth in the future. “We started executing a robust growth plan 10 years ago, which has gained traction thanks to several new products,” he said. “We have the capacity to add more labor that we will need to expand the business down the road.”

PIRANHA President: J.P. Claxton 650 Race St. 815-964-6771 piranhafab.com

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2021

Second ratings upgrade for Illinois Improvement in the state’s finances Illinois received an improved bond rating from S&P Global Ratings in early July. The announcement follows Moody’s credit upgrade and Fitch’s upgraded credit outlook for the state. S&P upgraded Illinois’ rating on its General Obligation bonds from BBB- to BBB with a stable outlook and the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority ratings from BBB to BBB+ based on the state’s support. The state was credited with “improved liquidity,” “demonstrated operational controls during the COVID-19 pandemic” and an “improving economic condition” in making the rating change. Build

Illinois bonds were upgraded from BBB to BBB+. S&P last upgraded the state’s bonds in July 1997. Also in July, Moody’s upgraded Illinois’ rating on its General Obligation bonds from Baa3 with a stable outlook to Baa2 with a stable outlook, and also upgraded the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority ratings to Baa3 from Ba1 based on the state’s support. Build Illinois bonds were upgraded to Baa2 from Baa3. The rating agency noted that the credit upgrade was supported by a material improvement in the state’s

finances, demonstrated by the ability to repay emergency Federal Reserve borrowings promptly and keep unpaid bills in check at a low level. “One of the most striking developments in recent months was the state’s reduction of a ‘backlog’ of unpaid bills, underscoring the improvement in the state’s finances,” Moody’s wrote. The rating of a state’s bonds is a measure of their credit quality. A higher bond rating generally means the state can borrow at a lower interest rate, saving taxpayers millions of dollars.

Business opportunities with temporary casino

Hard Rock Casino Rockford hosts vendor fair Aug. 13, 14

Vendor Business Opportunities

Electrical services Entertainment, brands, DJs Equipment supplies and rentals Fresh beef, pork and chicken Fresh flowers/plants Fresh produce Fresh seafood HVAC Kitchen equipment repair services Landscaping services Linen rental Liquor/wine/beer Local media Locksmith services Mobile office and storage services Painting and plumbing supplies Promotional items Refrigeration maintenance services Safety and fire prevention services Seafood Signs and printing Upholstery services Valet services

Bakery and pastry Billboards Contract labor Deli meats and cheese purveyors

Learn more about the Hard Rock Casino Rockford and employment and vendor opportunities at www.hardrock casinorockford.com.

Hard Rock hosted the first in a series of upcoming vendor fairs with a virtual vendor information session on July 28 in preparation for the opening of the temporary casino later this fall. Rockford businesses got the chance to learn more about Hard Rock and the partnership opportunities available. “This event will serve as a kickoff, educating area vendors on the types of products and services we are looking for, why Hard Rock is a great partner, and what they need to do to potentially work with us,” said Jon Lucas, COO, Hard Rock International. “We do our best to source locally whenever possible.” The vendor information session was the first in a series of events. In addition to this virtual event, Hard Rock is planning to host an in-person vendor fair as well as job information sessions, Aug. 13 and 14.

Community Navigator Program expanded to accelerate distribution of small business economic relief funds The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is expanding the community navigator outreach program with a $9 million investment as Illinois launches the $300 million Back 2 Business small business recovery program. Navigators will provide one-on-one technical assistance and ensure small and hard-to-reach businesses are aware of the economic relief funds available. The goal is to help businesses most impacted by COVID-19 recover their operational losses, and the priority will be on hard hit industries and communities. Navigator partners provide small businesses with direct assistance on applications, as well as language assistance, on-the-ground outreach, webinars and technical assistance sessions. They also will work to support businesses eligible for ongoing SBA programs, including the Shuttered Venue Operator Grants (SVOG) and EIDL. In Winnebago County, those regional partner organizations include: The American Business Immigration Coalition (serving Sangamon, Macon, McLean, Cook, Winnebago and Jackson counties). The Illinois Public Health Association (serving Springfield, Jacksonville, Beardstown, Cook, Will McHenry, Fairfield, Cobden, East St. Louis, Boone, Winnebago, Rock Island, Mercer, Henry, Jo Daviess, Carroll, Whiteside, Lee, Stephenson and Ogle counties).

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2021

GUEST COLUMNIST

ERNA COLBORN Edward Jones

if you’ve already got a good

How should investors respond to inﬂation?

Inflation affects different types of investments differently

For more than a decade, inflation has been essentially dormant. In recent months, though, economists have expected an uptick but were still surprised by the sharp jump in the April Consumer Price Index (CPI), which rose 4.2% from a year ago. As an investor, what can you expect if we do enter a more inflationary environment? First, it’s useful to understand the main causes of the recent spike in prices. Part of the explanation is simply a result of increased economic activity in the spring of 2021 over the same period a year ago, when prices collapsed at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. And this reopening of the economy has also resulted in a surge in demand for travel-related services such as hotels, airfare and rental cars. Another contributing factor is a widespread shortage of manufacturing materials that have limited production

and driven up prices for an array of consumer goods. Will this inflationary pressure continue? It’s not easy to make predictions of this nature, but, for now, the Federal Reserve seems to believe the recent price hikes are temporary, and, as a result, will continue its policy of keeping interest rates low. But a few more months of higher-than-expected inflation could change the Fed’s view and its actions. In any case, how should you as an individual investor respond to even the potential threat of rising prices? You’ll need to keep in mind that inflation affects different types of investments differently. Consider fixed-income securities such as bonds, which pay a set interest rate – the coupon rate. Because rising inflation erodes the value of a bond’s future income, bond prices typically fall during inflationary periods. This is particularly true of longer-term bonds,

due to the cumulative effect of the lower purchasing power. On the other hand, stocks – especially those of larger companies – tend to do well during inflationary periods, which might not be that surprising, considering that a company’s revenue and earnings may increase at a rate similar to that of inflation. Of course, “stocks” is a broad term, and some industries will do better than others when inflation is on the rise. Even if inflation keeps advancing, you may not want to make significant changes to your investments. For example, although their prices may fall, bonds can still be valuable assets, since they can help reduce the impact of market volatility on your portfolio. And if you’ve already got a good mix of stocks appropriate for your goals and risk tolerance, there’s probably no need to shake things up. Here’s one more thought to keep in mind about inflation: It serves as

mix of stocks appropriate for your goals and risk tolerance, there’s probably no need to shake things up. a reminder that you’ll always need to have a reasonable percentage of growth-oriented investments in your portfolio to avoid losing purchasing power. As we’ve seen, inflation won’t always be in hibernation. Ultimately, your own actions and decisions will determine your success as an investor, but you’ll still want to be aware of how a development like inflation can affect the economy and the financial markets. If we are entering territory we haven’t seen in a while, it pays to stay alert. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones ﬁnancial advisor, Erna Colborn, AAMS®, CRPS®. Edward Jones. Member SIPC. The views expressed are those of Colborn’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2021

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 SBDC adds employees with expertise to serve businesses’ evolving needs An array of no cost advising and training options The Illinois SBDC at the Rockford Chamber of Commerce provides a vast array of technical assistance to small businesses and entrepreneurs. We customize services to meet the evolving needs of the community in Winnebago, Boone, Ogle and Stephenson counties.

Some New Faces As we branch out from the Rockford area to better serve our clients, you’ll notice a few new faces as part of our team. Mike Rogers has joined our team in the role of IT and cyber security consultant. Mike is the owner of Michael Rogers Consulting LLC and his functional roles include custom software engineering/software consulting, database consulting services, AI/Machine Learning Analytics, manufacturing engineering consultation, mechatronics specialist, Master-level Blackbelt (MBB services) and general business consulting. He has been a senior level consultant and application developer for more than 20 years in various roles serving as a solutions designer able to design, develop and implement technology and process improvement solutions.

Allen Godin joins Rockford SBDC as business banking consultant, with a focus on guiding clients through the business lending process. Allen has worked with local financial institutions such as BMO Harris Bank and Northwest Bank and most recently Bank of the West in Des Moines, Iowa. He has extensive experience with strategic planning, business development, sales management, commercial lending and working with community businesses. Shelby Flores joins us as a business consultant focusing on our Hispanic entrepreneurs. She is currently a restaurant manager at LaCosta Bora in Belvidere and has assisted them with hiring and training staff as well as assisting with social media and target marketing efforts. Shelby has a background in finance and marketing and will assist us with our business development efforts in the surrounding counties.

Some Familiar Faces In addition to our new team members, we have our core team members who can assist you with all of your small business needs. Edward Caceres is an experienced business advisor who enjoys working with entrepreneurs and startup companies. His areas of expertise include access to capital, web development, business sustainability and solar energy. Mike Mastroianni is the president of MDM Consulting, a firm specializing in training, coaching, leadership development, planning and human resources support. His areas of expertise include strategic planning, leadership HR, team building, access to capital and community outreach. Heather Kelley has a proven record of building marketing departments and increasing business awareness through strategic planning, social media advertising, community events,

public relations and networking. Her areas of expertise include social media planning, content marketing, public relations, event planning and digital marketing. Vince Chiarelli owns Chiarelli Consulting and has been in charge of and helped grow several local businesses in the following industries: hotel/hospitality, local & chain restaurants, self storage, gambling, retail, His areas of expertise include accounting, financial analysis and planning, tax planning, cash flow management and business plans. The benefits of working with your local SBDC include no cost, one-onone business advising, virtual business advising, training programs and workshops designed for small businesses, professional referral network, accessing capital, technology development and lifelong business partners. Contact us for a consultation at 815-316-4301 or sbdc@ rockfordchamber.com.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2021

Passport backlog a ripe environment for scams According to the Better Business Bureau, passports scams are rising, as the U.S. Department of State is experiencing significant processing backlogs. Currently, there is an estimated backlog of between a million and a half to 2 million applications, with a wait time for both new and renewal routine passport applications tracking up to 18 weeks. Even “expedited passports” with the $60 fee are taking up to 12 weeks. “Scammers, posing as passport expeditors are stepping in and convincing their victims for a higher fee they can get quickly get through the processing time, including applications and mailing,” said Dennis Horton, director of the Rockford Regional Oﬃce of the Better Business Bureau. He warns: “Along with money losses in these scams, passports contain critical personal information that unlocks identity theft for years to come.” Scammers play on people in an emotional and stressful situation, and those without passports under pressure to possibly cancel their upcoming trips. BBB Tips ■ Watch for spoofers pretending to be a government agency. It’s extremely easy to make phone calls, e-mails, texts and even phony websites look like they are coming from a real agency.

IGNITE: YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

■ Never trust an unsolicited phone call or email pretending to be the State Department or Passport Agency asking for personal information or payment of fees. ■ Always check out any company with BBB.ORG before you do business with them. ■ Any form of unusual forms of payments like gift cards, wire transfers, even bitcoin, are “tip offs to the rip off.” ■ If you have lost money or encountered a scam, please report it to the BBB Scamtracker and help protect other consumers and your community.

PLAN WELL AHEAD The U.S. Department of State suggests at this time to apply for a passport at least six months before planned travel. The website reads: “Due to limited availability for urgent travel appointments, we cannot guarantee you can receive in-person service at a passport agency or center. We are prioritizing customers with life-or-death emergencies.” Visit travel.state.gov/content/ travel/en/traveladvisories/ea/ passport-covid-19 for more on obtaining passports from the U.S. Department of State.

CARMEN KELLERMAN IGNITE ROCKFORD

Hello events: Check out what IGNITE has planned

If you had told me during the pandemic that I would be excited to be around large groups of people again, I would have told you that you were talking nonsense. I am an introvert by nature and large groups of people usually freak me out. This is no longer the case. No, I did not suddenly become an extrovert overnight (still an introvert over here…), but I am finding myself actually searching for events and being excited to go to events, both in my professional and personal life.

Professional Life When I was told we would be planning in-person events again, I was excited and nervous. I was excited because I missed the planning process (no matter how stressful it can get at times) and the people, but nervous because I had not been out in groups much since the pandemic. I have been to about 6 or 7 work events now, and I have to say I am happy to be back! I did not realize how much I missed the people. It was so good to see familiar faces … even though it still takes me a bit to put a name to a face. I missed being in a room full of people. I missed the small talk and the catching up. I missed the laughter scattered throughout a room while the voices of 20, 30, 40, 50+ people all mesh as one. It felt so good to laugh with others.

Personal Life In my personal life, I have found myself interested in seeing what is going on in the city of Rockford/surrounding areas and actually going to the events. I have had so much fun and have found so many new

things to do in our area! I also have found that I want to travel and see the world more! We traveled to Tennessee in June, and I already have ideas of where to go next (which is saying a lot because I am a self-proclaimed homebody!)

What I’ve Learned I have a few realizations now that we are “getting back to normal”: 1. Recently, I have felt as if I have the energy to attend events and expand my social horizons a bit more. This could just be me, but I truly do feel more energized and ready for events! 2. Gathering in person again has helped me become more intentional. Before the pandemic, people would ask how you were and would want to catch up, but we were all so busy, it was easy to not be fully present. Now, everyone is so eager to find out how the rest of the world is that I think we are taking the time to hear others and actively listen to them. 3. I am more of a people person than I realized. I like to be surrounded by individuals. I like to hear their stories and how they got to where they are today. I missed people! If you miss this feeling as well and have been wanting to get out, but don’t know what to do, be sure to check out IGNITE’s Facebook page for upcoming events, such as Lunch with a Leader, After 5s, volunteer events and more! Carmen Kellerman is event & program coordinator at IGNITE Rockford.

TELL US YOUR PLANS FOR ROCKFORD DAY! Rockford Day is rapidly approaching, and with 8/15 falling on a Sunday in 2021, the City of Rockford encourages the community to spend the entire weekend demonstrating how proud and resilient the people of the Rockford area truly are. Throughout this past year, we have been frequently reminded that we are “stronger together.” Participating in Rockford Day on Aug. 13, 14 and 15 demonstrates this connection among residents, businesses and organizations.

Put an 815 (or 779) Twist on Your Oﬀering The city invites all local businesses, agencies, nonprofits and other organizations from the public and private sectors to find creative ways to join in the celebration and demonstrate pride in the Rockford area. Ideas are offering Rockford Day-themed specials or discounts or hosting an event, in person or virtually, across the city or in one of the surrounding communities. Submit your deals, specials and events by Aug. 6 to be listed on the Rockford Day event page on GoRockford.com and featured on the Rockford Day google map. There is no charge. Watch your email, the Rockford Day Facebook page, and Rockford Day Twitter feed for additional ideas for participation, or contact Barb Chidley, 779-348-7448 or rockfordday815@gmail.com, for help in developing your plan for the day.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2021

 Destination

Invitation to participate in expanded Apprenticeship Illinois program

ILLINOIS, USA

ADDING WEALTH TO THE REGION’S ECONOMY BY GROWING TOURISM

JOHN GROH Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

The power of public art

Each time I drive a different route to our office on the corner of State and Main, I spy another of our CRE8IV murals or sculptures and am reminded of the powerful effect of public art. This summer’s paintings and installations are spread throughout June, July and August. In 2019, 11 murals were all painted in one week. In 2020 the pandemic pre-empted CRE8IV. Our streetscapes have been continually changing. One week, you drive by a blank wall in need of repair and the next week, it’s transformed through art into a beautiful community gathering spot. One day, you drive by a bare corner, and the next day it’s transformed through art into a provocative sculpture gallery. My appreciation of public art is summed up by Rockford Area Arts Council (RAAC) Executive Director Mary McNamara Bernsten, “Public art is uniquely accessible in that we experience it in the course of our daily lives, outside of museums or other cultural institutions. There is no admission fee, dress code or proper reaction to public art — it is a personal experience.” Mary further describes public art as “being a distinguishing part of our public history — it is a reflection of our rich and diverse cultures and a reflection of the values of those who live and work in our community. Public art provides an opportunity for self-reflection and awareness — it is a unique vehicle for empathy and compassion. And public art adds value to our community — economic, cultural, educational, and social value — both in terms of dollars and cents and in the abstract sense of identity and community pride.” That’s powerful. Thanks, Mary. The support of RAAC and so many others is critical to RACVB’s work in making Rockford a beautiful, inspiring place to live and work. Our placemaking activities, like CRE8IV, help us tell Rockford’s story, demonstrating that our region is inclusive, welcoming and a truly colorful place to visit and perhaps stay a while.

Regional Transformations This year, CRE8IV transformations expanded beyond downtown Rockford

to Loves Park, Pecatonica and Rockton. Seeing

our

beautification

efforts

stretch north and west is a testament to the power of art, our CRE8IV model, and the RACVB Destination Development team, led by Kristen Paul and in partnership with a myriad of sponsors, workers, artists volunteers and municipalities. Like so many programs led by RACVB, CRE8IV: Transformational Art (which is part of our Forest City Beautiful Initiative) is dependent upon the generosity of local partners and sponsors. I am continually amazed at how our public art initiative brings people together, willingly sharing their time, talent and treasure. This

year,

CRE8IV

murals

benefitted from contributions from Brubaker Charitable Trust, City of Loves Park, Collins Aerospace & the National Society of Black Engineers Rockford Chapter, David & Colleen Anderson Family, German-American State Bank, Illinois Lottery, Kjellstrom Family Foundation, Mayor Thomas P. McNamara, Painter’s District Council 30 Local 607, Representative Maurice West, Rockford Area Arts Council, Senator Steve Stadelman, UPS, Village of Pecatonica, Village of Rockton, Workplace Staffing. We are shoring up our sculpture sponsors and are still seeking donors. If you are interested in sponsoring a

sculpture

contact of

Martesha

advancement,

mural, Brown,

please director

815-489-1655

mbrown@gorockford.com. On behalf of all our artists, sponsors, volunteers and the RACVB team, I invite you to experience the power of public art by visiting a mural or sculpture today. Download a map at gorockford.com/ cre8iv, post a photo, and tag it #CRE8IV #gorockford. 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.

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced an $8 million expansion of the Apprenticeship Illinois program to prepare Illinoisans for jobs in highdemand industries. The plan is for 750 more apprenticeships focused on underserved populations and industries heavily impacted by COVID-19. The money comes from $2 million in USDOL funding under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and $6 million of additional funding under the USDOL State Apprenticeship Expansion, Equity and Innovation grant program. Apprenticeship expansion dollars will grow the capacity of pathways currently offered, including healthcare, hospitality, technology, transportation and manufacturing. But the state also will seek to launch a new pathway to upskill workers in the creative arts and entertainment industry sector. Underrepresented populations targeted for training for these jobs include lowincome individuals, older workers, women, returning citizens, persons with disabilities, veterans and youth. A workforce study conducted by the Arts Alliance of Illinois found that more than 60 percent of workers from artsrelated businesses and organizations in

Illinois either were laid off or furloughed during the pandemic. “The arts and entertainment industry was among the first to be shuttered due to COVID-19,” said Claire Rice, executive director of the Arts Alliance.

Seeking Apprenticeship Partners To reach more of these residents across the state, DCEO will use the DCEO navigator and intermediary partnership models first piloted last year. Apprenticeship partners will work to recruit from underrepresented areas of the state — including rural areas — and prioritize diversity and inclusion. Funding will be provided for 10 to 12 navigators and 16 to 20 intermediary grantees. They will develop industry-aligned curriculum to train participants and work with employers to match residents to skills training opportunities. Applicants will be prioritized based on the quality of their proposal and demonstrated plans to serve targeted populations outlined in the Illinois WIOA Unified Plan and industries recovering from the pandemic. Deadline to submit an application is Sept. 15, 2021. Visit www.illinoiswork net.com/ApprenticeshipNOFO2021.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2021

legislative

LEGISLATIVE ISSUES Push to put one million EVs on the road

Illinois ranks #1 as most sustainable location for site selection

Illinois topped the nation in Site Selection magazine’s annual ranking of the top locations for sustainable development, moving up from #3 last year and besting California, Michigan, New York and Minnesota. States were judged according to standard green metrics, such as LEEDcertified buildings, renewable energy use, measures such as corporate social responsibility profiles, brownfield redevelopment, corporate facility investments in sectors with green connections, and commercial real estate environmental, social and governance (ESG) data. Governor JB Pritzker attributed the ranking in part to policies that include expanding the electric vehicle industry and support of manufacturers like Lion Electric and Rivian. Rivian is producing its electric SUVs and trucks in Normal, Ill., adding 1,900 jobs, and Canadian-based Lion Electric is investing $70 million in its first-ever U.S. production center in Joliet; adding 745 jobs to produce 20,000 electric buses and trucks annually. “Illinois scored particularly well in our index where LEED-certified and Energy Star buildings were concerned, as well as in per-capita calculations of renewable energy deployment and facility investments from cleantech industries,” said Adam Bruns, managing editor, Site Selection, who first conceived of the rankings in 2010. “Projects like the recent EV manufacturing investments and the unique Green Era Farming Campus on the south side of Chicago will only strengthen the state’s sustainability profile.” Illinois also ranks fifth in the United States for wind energy generation and is recognized for recent expansions in electric vehicle manufacturing. The EV industry in Illinois is projected to increase by 83 percent by 2024, when an estimated 9,500 workers will be employed throughout the state, according to a recent study by Advanced Energy Economy.

The Pritzker administration is investing in workforce training to help companies scale quickly and meet demand for talent. This includes a recent $15 million investment to increase specialized training programs. An example, Heartland Community College is focusing on electric vehicles and energy storage to prepare for projected industry growth.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO CHARGE AN ELECTRIC CAR? The bigger the battery, the more energy (charge) that’s required. A larger battery will always take longer than a smaller one, so this should always be taken into consideration when traveling. Electric car drivers will encounter a variety of charge points that offer different charge speeds. For example, home chargers are much slower at around 3.5kW and for our 40kWh battery this would take 12 hours and 21 minutes. Conversely, if a 150kW fast charger was used, this would reduce the charge time down to just 24 minutes for a full charge. Some service stations now have super rapid DC chargers that charge at speeds of 350kW. This would reduce a full charge time to just eight minutes. More info at www.electricdrives.tv/

Bills to go into eﬀect in Illinois

IDOT adds alternative fuel corridor signs along Illinois interstates The Illinois Department of Transportation has posted more than 30 Alternative Fuels Corridor signs, with another 20 going up this summer as a part of the plan to expand the adoption of electric vehicles across the state. The Federal Highway Administration has designated 145,000 miles of interstate for promoting alternative fuels, including along Interstates 39, 55, 70, 74, 80, 90 and 94 in Illinois. The following area (District 2) signs will alert drivers of opportunities to refuel: ■ Eastbound I-90 near Wisconsin state line

HB 53. Amends the Artificial Intelligence Video Interview Act by requiring that employers who solely rely on artificial intelligence for analysis of a video interview to report the race and ethnicity of the people interview and hired to the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). DCEO will analyze and report the data by July 1 of every year. Effective Jan. 1, 2022.

■ Eastbound I-74 near Iowa state line

HB 56. Requires that compensation of each county-elected oﬃcer be fixed and listed separately by ordinance or resolution of the county board or board of commissioners. Effective immediately.

Additional signs will be installed later approaching exit ramps, providing directional information to specific stations that offer alternative fuels. In Illinois, the first signs will focus on electric charging stations, but additional ones will point out locations for compressed natural gas, liquefied natural gas, hydrogen and propane fueling stations.

HB 118. Entitles an employee to recover damages of five percent, rather than two percent, of the amount of any underpayments in wages for each month following the date of payment

■ Eastbound I-80 near Iowa state line

during which such underpayments remain unpaid. Effective immediately. HB 161. Amends the Illinois Vehicle Code by requiring that a suspended driver’s license must remain suspended until the statute of limitations has expired and the person seeking reinstatement provides evidence that, during the statute of limitations period, no action for damages arising out of a motor vehicle accident had been filed. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. HB 282. Allows a superintendent of a Veterans’ Assistance Commission to ask a State’s Attorney to render an opinion, free of charge. Effective immediately. HB 395. Changes the name of the Ivory Ban Act to the Animal Parts and Continued on page 11

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2021

legislative

LEGISLATIVE ISSUES

(continued from page 10)

Products Ban Act and expands the scope of the act to include multiple other species of animals. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. HB 449. Requires the Division of Mental Health at DHS to create and administer the Housing is Recovery Pilot Program to prevent institutionalization and overdose deaths, improve health outcomes and access to recovery support and reduce state costs. Effective immediately. HB 3139. Amends the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Program Act to allow the administration of a medical cannabis infused product to a person who is a registered patient who participates in a summer camp or similar program in a public park. Effective immediately. SB 61. Clarifies that insurers must pay the replacement vehicle use or occupation tax, title, and transfer fees required in Section 154.9, and that failure to do so will result in insurers being considered guilty of improper claims practice. Effective July 1, 2022. SB 100. Allows a person who uses spend-down to qualify for Medicaid to have up to six, rather than three, consecutive months to submit medical

receipts and bills processed by the Illinois Healthcare and Families Services as evidence of eligibility. Effective immediately.

SB 119. Allows a lemonade stand to be operated by a person under 16 without regulation and without the need to apply for a temporary food permit with the local health department. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. SB 189. Requires each state agency that purchases food through a contract to adopt a policy that permits the donation of leftover food purchased with public funds. Effective immediately. SB 332. Requires that an insurer or network plan shall make available, in electronic or print form, information related to the provider’s use of telehealth and telemedicine. Effective immediately. SB 346. Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code to include provisions requiring Medicaid to cover certain dental procedures. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. SB 363. Creates a task force to study best practices and licensing of nontransplant organ donation organizations. Effective immediately.

HB 14. Requires the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation to issue an explanation to licensing, certificate or grant registration applicants that are denied due to a criminal conviction. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. HB 20. Removes the registration fee for a Gold Star license plate for a surviving widow, widower or parent of a member of the Armed Forces who lost their life in service. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. HB 33. Prohibits an insurance company from cancelling a life insurance policy or charging different rates because of an individual’s participation in a substance recovery program. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. HB 55. Streamlines the process for psychological testing to allow psychologists to test for determination of developmental and intellectual disabilities. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. HB 96. Adds light sensitivity as a result of a traumatic brain injury to the list of exemptions from window tinting restrictions. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. HB 122. Prohibits telephone, television, internet, energy, medical alert or water system providers from

charging a fee for termination or early cancellation of a service upon a customer’s death. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. HB 126. Authorizes a police oﬃcer to transfer pension service credit from the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund to the Police Oﬃcers’ Pension Fund. Effective immediately. HB 168. Prohibits the possession of an animal if a person or persons who reside in the same household have been convicted of two or more animal abuse offenses. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. HB 212. Requires the state’s Children’s Mental Health Plan to include recommendations for ensuring all youth receive mental health education and have access to mental health care in the school setting. Effective July 1, 2021. HB 247. Requires that each state building constructed, acquired or of which more than 50 percent of the façade is substantially altered to meet specified standards concerning bird safety. Effective Jan. 1, 2022.

SPECIAL SECTION Transforming Education

August 2021

Library hosts second graduation for Career Online High School A solution to Rockford’s sizable high school dropout epidemic The Rockford Public Library celebrated its second class of graduates of RPL’s Career Online High School (COHS) program at Nordlof Center on June 24. The ceremony also served as a fundraiser-friendraiser to expand the program for a waitlist of potential students. At the end of her commencement address, LoRayne Logan announced the sponsorship of five additional scholarships. “In my business, I see all the time the penalty that those individuals pay,” Logan said. “It’s a costly thing to not have your diploma, and it deeply hurts communities, so it’s important that community leaders focus on this and find solutions.” RPL’s COHS is a nationally accredited program offering adult learners a chance to earn a high school diploma while gaining career skills in one of 10 employment fields, such as home care professional, office management and homeland security. Classes are 100 percent online and include online tutoring and additional in-person support at the library. Credits earned by students in high school and

previous GED attempts are accepted towards diploma completion. Last year’s fundraising was initially championed by Peter Provenzano, who sponsored five scholarships in early 2020. “RPL Career Online High School program works; this group of graduates proves that,” Provenzano shared during his address. “Now we must set about scaling [the program], raising more money, recruiting more students, identifying more volunteers and tutors to work with the students as enrollment will eventually exceed what the library staff alone can handle.” Today, more than 12,000 of Rockford’s citizens, ages 25 to 65 have not completed high school. Efforts led by Peter Provenzano and LoRayne Logan in 2020 resulted in 23 scholarships to RPL’s COHS in 2020. Eleven were awarded to students who celebrated their diplomas in June. Others continue to pursue their diplomas and will celebrate at ceremonies closer to their completion dates. For more information, email COHS@rockfordpubliclibrary.org.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

GUEST COLUMNIST

ANISHA GRIMMETT Alignment Rockford

Supporting early childhood development makes good business sense

As a business leader, you know that your future success hinges on the decisions you make today. That sentiment also holds true for child-rearing. The Ready to Learn movement is based on the idea that the experiences children have — especially during their first three years — play a major role throughout their lives. As a community, it’s our responsibility to help prepare our future workforce and clientele by providing them with early childhood experiences that prepare them for lifelong success. At Alignment Rockford, we are proud to lead the Ready to Learn movement, a community collaboration that operates as a free and accessible resource for parents throughout our community. We work toward a critical goal: Making sure all children are ready to learn when they arrive for their first day of Kindergarten. This doesn’t just have educational benefits — it’s vital to our community’s future success and prosperity. Children who are ready for kindergarten perform better throughout their academic careers. Quality early childhood programs have been shown to help parents grow income while their children become brighter, leading to increased earning potential and narrowed achievement gaps. In fact, every dollar that is invested in early childhood produces a $1.13 annual return. That’s why supporting early childhood learning programs simply makes good business sense. In just over a decade, today’s Kindergartners will be entering the job market and becoming marketable consumers. The stage that’s set in these early years has the potential to strengthen the future work force in our community. Indeed, investments in early childhood compound over a lifetime. Ready to Learn currently functions through three tier steps, with graduating levels of involvement, to reach children up to 5 years of age: Tier 1: The parent is a child’s first and most important teacher. Learning begins at birth, with those early days planting the seeds that grow into talking, relating with others, reading and more. An easy and accessible resource for parents is the free Beginning with Babble app. This program has proven success in

other communities, with as little as a few minutes each day. Companies like PCI Pharma, see the value by encouraging their employees to download this app. Another option is the Illinois Basics website. Both resources offer fun, everyday ways to teach very young children about the world around them. Tier 2: We’re better together. That’s why at this level, programs offer parents and caregivers support while teaching ways to instill social, emotional and academic skills that will last a lifetime. Tier 2 includes the Abriendo Puertas/Opening Doors program for parents. It is a 10-session program led by trained facilitators and using a two-generation approach to build parent leadership skills. Similarly, the Incredible Years is a series of trainings for parents, aimed at preventing or treating behavioral problems. This program aims to promote social, emotional and academic competence among all children under age 5. Tier 3: Programs at this level already exist in the community, so Ready to Learn steps in to connect parents with the services that would benefit their child. This includes home visits, center-based child care, special needs intervention or a head start program — all free of charge. Our business community plays a critical role in supporting our community’s health and success. You can help in a variety of ways, such as connecting us to your employees and customers so that they also can take advantage of these free resources. As those involved in your business become stronger, your company can’t help but grow as well. We invite you to join us as we embark on this journey of raising a generation of children to become the thriving business leaders of tomorrow. Anisha Grimmett is executive director at Alignment Rockford, which supports Rockford Public Schools District 205 in designing and piloting programs that address the areas of greatest need for our children. The views expressed are those of Grimmett’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2021

GUEST COLUMNIST

DON GILLINGHAM Rockford Lutheran School

What we’ve discovered in the past year of change

With apologies to Shakespeare … “all the world’s a stage and each person a player.” On Monday March 16, 2020, all props and scenery on the stage of education changed, and changed again in the fall of 2020. Now there is widespread sentiment that we must get “back to normal.” No, please, let’s not go back. For all the stress and uncertainty, flex classes and remote learning, we have learned so much about our culture, education and our families. It would be a terrible waste to go back to what was a fatigued and outmoded style of teaching and learning. We all know what education was like when we were in school. Actually, since Henry Ford, students of every generation and age have had a very similar experience. Education was modeled on the assembly line. Each grade, in every American school, was expected to provide a student with a skill or attitude. Delivery systems changed

from black boards to green boards, to white boards to smart boards, but the teacher remained the constant. The teacher was the dispenser of knowledge. Our salary schedule assumed that the teacher with 20 years of experience was more valuable than the teacher fresh from school. We did not consider that the tenured teacher on the job for 20 years might have simply had the same year of experience 20 times. Students were expected to learn the rules of the game and attain success by repeating what they had been told was important. The proof of the importance was reflected on the high stakes test approved by a legislature or state agency. As students built a record of participation and achievement, they would be rewarded with acceptance to the college of their choice and often as the recipient of scholarships. Parents filled out forms and were called in annually for conferences with teachers where pleasantries were

SPECIAL SECTION Transforming Education

The many and varied experiences of the past year presented new roles for all involved. We learned how important it was for parents to be investors. exchanged and movement to the next grade, or stage of the assembly line, was validated. The many and varied experiences of the past year presented new roles for all involved. We learned how important it was for parents to be investors. Parents learned more about their child’s learning styles than they could ever grasp in a conference. The challenge of motivating students to do their best fell to parents who searched for the right words to unlock the potential of their student. Teachers discovered a world of resources to teach the lessons of the American experience, the industrial revolution, the law of gravity, multiplication tables and how to find a restaurant in Germany. Teachers have seen what it looks like to be a guide rather than the source and fount of all wisdom. Educators experimented with the joy of walking next to a student on a quest. Students were confronted with an inescapable reality; they own the outcomes of their education. Some schools relaxed grading standards. But

still, every student is now on a journey, not an assembly line. And they must soon apply their learning to their next step. Whether a degree, certificate or apprenticeship program, students will make choices. The better they prepare, the more they own the decision, the greater the likelihood that they will make a satisfying choice. Oh, what possibilities have been opened up to us! We can’t abandon all we have learned and simply go back. Education will be more structured for sure. One thing we learned is that a community of learning enriches our understandings. The best education will always be a team undertaking. Let’s get into our classrooms, on the playing fields and on the stage with new roles, new possibilities and new happy endings. Don Gillingham is executive director at Rockford Lutheran School. The views expressed are those of Gillingham’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

SPECIAL SECTION Transforming Education

August 2021

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

Illinois first U.S. state to require Asian American history in public school curriculum Governor JB Pritzker signed HB 376, the Teaching Equitable Asian American (TEAACH) History Act into law, making Illinois the first state in the nation to require a unit of Asian American history be taught in public schools. The philosophy is for the curriculum to more fully reflect the diversity of Illinois citizens. Beginning with the 2022-2023 school year, every public elementary school and high school will be required to include

a unit of instruction on events of Asian American history, including history in Illinois and the Midwest. The state will not require or designate a specific curriculum for school districts. The Illinois State Board of Education is authorized to make instructional materials available to all school boards; however, each school board will determine the minimum amount of instructional time that qualifies as a unit of instruction as stated in the bill.

IDPH adopts CDC COVID-19 prevention school guidance The Illinois Department of Public Health fully adopted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated guidance for COVID-19 Prevention in Kindergarten (K)-12 Schools. In-person learning has been mandated for Illinois schools beginning with the 2021-22 school year, provided that remote instruction be made available for students who have not received a COVID-19 vaccine or are not eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine. This is only while they are under quarantine, consistent with guidance or requirements from a local public health department or IDPH. The updated school guidance allows activities to resume for fully vaccinated people without wearing a mask, except where required by federal, state and local rules and regulations.

between students within classrooms, combined with indoor mask wearing by people who are not fully vaccinated. If schools cannot fully re-open while maintaining these distances, it is especially important to layer multiple other prevention strategies, such as indoor masking.

■ Masks should be worn indoors by all individuals (age 2 and older) not fully vaccinated.

Updated school guidance can be found at www.dph.illinois.gov/ covid19/community-guidance/ school-guidance.

■ Schools should maintain at least three feet of physical distance

■ Screening testing, ventilation, handwashing and respiratory etiquette, staying home when sick and getting tested, contact tracing in combination with quarantine and isolation, and cleaning and disinfection are also important layers of prevention to keep schools safe. ■ Many schools serve children under the age of 12 who are not eligible for vaccination at this time. Therefore, this guidance emphasizes implementing layered prevention strategies (masking, distancing, testing) to protect people who are not fully vaccinated.

Recent school legislation passed for Illinois HB 226. Prohibits Illinois institutions of higher learning from requiring applicants who are residents of the State of Illinois to submit standardized test scores as a part of the admissions process. Provides that the submission of standardized test scores to the institution shall be at the option of the applicant. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. HB 234. Requires public high schools to provide a unit of instruction on media literacy. Effective immediately. HB 290. Requires the State Board of Education, in consultation with the Department of Human Services, to provide to parents and guardians of students a copy of the Department of Human Services’ guide, “Understanding PUNS: A Guide to Prioritization for Urgency of Need for Services” each year. Effective immediately. HB 343. Provides that the school day begins at 6:30 a.m., instead of 7 a.m., for purposes of speed limits. Effective immediately.

HB 374. Authorizes community colleges to develop affordable housing for community college students. Effective Jan. 1, 2022 SB 63. Amends the Children & Family Services Act. Requires DCFS to ensure that all youth-in-care entering their final year of high school have completed a FAFSA form or an application for state financial aid. Requires DCFS to help youth obtain all documents necessary to submit the applications. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. HB 120. Requires schools, public universities and community colleges to allow students to modify their athletic or team uniform in accordance with their religious or cultural preferences without prior approval from institutions governing board. The bill specifies changes must not pose a safety hazard to the student or other players, and the student is responsible for all costs associated with the modification of the uniform. Effective immediately.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2021

GUEST COLUMNISTS

We need your help TOM MCNAMARA City of Rockford

JOSEPH CHIARELLI Winnebago County

We may not be in the same political party. We may not work for the same organization or industry. But we all care deeply about our community. And, we’re extremely concerned that too many people in our county are choosing not to be vaccinated against COVID-19. As you know, we spent much of the last year in mitigations to try to prevent the spread of COVID-19. People were asked to stay home, some businesses were closed and many employees were unable to work as we tried to keep the virus from spreading and harming the most vulnerable among us. At that time, our best defense was testing. We used contact tracing, isolation and quarantine as tools to control the spread. With the approval of a vaccine, our cases began to decrease and mitigations started to lift. Life was beginning to return to normal as the vaccine became more readily available. People started feeling like they were reaching the other

DR. SANDRA MARTELL Winnebago County

Help your family, friends find their own reasons to get vaccinated

side of this pandemic. Then, vaccines plateaued. Those who wanted the vaccine had gotten it and fewer and fewer people were waiting in lines. Then, the Delta variant entered our community. Now, we’re faced with a variant that is far more contagious and dangerous than the original with less than 43 percent of our county residents vaccinated. Our global pandemic is now becoming a pandemic of the unvaccinated. Those who are unvaccinated are allowing the virus to mutate and put everyone, even those who are vaccinated, at risk. So, how will we avoid another round of mitigations? How will we protect our local businesses that can’t survive another shut down? How will we keep our loved ones safe? We would scream “GET VACCINATED” from the top of the Rockford Register Star building if it would help. But, we fear it would fall on deaf ears.

Tell Others Your Experience We know people are tired of hearing from us. They aren’t listening to the health care experts either. So, we’re turning to you. If you’ve been vaccinated, help spread the message. Tell others about your experience, and why you made the decision. Help your family and friends find their own reason to get vaccinated — to protect their family, to protect their children, to be less anxious or to visit their parents. No one wants to see an increase in cases, but it is happening. It’s happening locally and across the country. In California, L.A. County reported an 80 percent increase in cases in the last week. The county enacted a new mask mandate in hopes of getting the rate of new infections under control quickly. Last week, a doctor in Alabama said one of the last things her patients do before they are intubated due to COVID-19 is

beg her for the vaccine, but she has to tell them it’s too late. It’s not too late for us. We know what will happen if we see a large spike – mitigations, business closures, people out of work. Help us avoid that outcome. Get vaccinated and tell others to do the same. And, as a business owner, please talk to your staff about the vaccine, consider offering incentives for those who get it, and get one yourself! Tom McNamara is Mayor of the City of Rockford. Joseph Chiarelli is Chairman of the Winnebago County Board. Dr. Sandra Martell is Public Health Administrator for Winnebago County. The views expressed are those of McNamara’s, Chiarelli’s and Dr. Martell’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2021

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

economic development Multiple options available for cybersecurity training for manufacturers Starting Aug. 4, IMEC is offering a 15-part training series specifically for manufacturers. Meeting the first Wednesday of every month through October 2022, Make Steady Progress: CMMC Cybersecurity 15-Part Training Series for Manufacturers, combines a deep dive into the requirements along with monthly action steps and support for ongoing progress towards Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Each participating company registration includes: ■ Monthly training offered live, with each session recorded and available for on-demand viewing. ■ Resources and materials. ■ Unlimited participants. Attendees can vary from month to month, depending on the training topic. This seminar has been described as a self-study program with a coach. The other option planned for September and October is the Roadmap

to 2025: Create Your Plan to be Cybersecure. This complimentary two-session seminar features one virtual session and one in-person workshop. The in-person workshop for our region is currently scheduled for Oct. 19. This allows manufacturing companies the ability to establish a baseline for their cybersecurity strategy and ongoing needs to meet Department of Defense requirements for contractors and subcontractors with a 2025 deadline. This two-part seminar is possible due to a grant from the Office of Economic Adjustment and the Department of Defense. Both of these cybersecurity events are hosted by IMEC, a team of improvement specialists and technicians dedicated to providing organizations in Illinois with the tools and techniques to create sustainable competitive futures. Learn more and register for these seminars at RockfordIL.com/events.

Ronald M. Sega announced as keynote speaker for MAC2021 Dr. Ronald M. Sega, a Department of Defense Highly Qualified Expert in the role of chief technology oﬃcer in the U.S. Army Futures Command since July 2019, is the keynote speaker for MAC2021. Prior to being appointed to his current position, he served as director, systems engineering programs at Colorado State University and special assistant to the chancellor for strategic initiatives from September 2013 through June 2019. At CSU, he served as chair of the Sustainability, Energy, and Environment Advisory Committee. Dr. Sega also served as chair of the President’s and Provost’s Council on Sustainability at The Ohio State University. He held the position of vice president for energy, environment and applied research with the CSU Research Foundation from September 2007 through August 2010. In addition to these positions, he is a former NASA astronaut and veteran of two shuttle missions. He retired from the U.S. Air Force in the

rank of Major General. He will be joined by Dr. Kevin Michaels, managing director of AeroDynamic Advisory. His experience spans the air transport, business & general aviation and military sectors. Dr. Michaels will deliver an aerospace industry update titled Commercial Aerospace in the PostCOVID World during MAC2021. The day begins with breakfast and registration and continues with matchmaking, breakout sessions, exhibits and presentations covering emerging technologies, cybersecurity and supply chain development, then finishes with a cocktail reception. MAC2021 is the premier aerospace conference of the Midwest and continues to build connections and share relevant information and innovations key to the aerospace industry. Learn more about the events, attending, workshops and speakers taking place on Oct. 5 at MidwestAerospaceConference.com.

Cybersecurity Training Options for Manufacturers CURRENT

UPCOMING

Make Steady Process: CMMC Cybersecurity 15-part Training Program ■ Outlines the Department of Defense cybersecurity requirements

Roadmap to 2025: Create Your Plan to be Cybersecure ■ General cybersecurity strategy

■ 15-month training program

■ Complimentary registration

■ 3-hour monthly, live, virtual training ■ Monthly homework guidance and IMEC check-in

■ 2 sessions: 1 virtual, 1 inperson workshop ■ Training in September and October

■ NEW DATE: August 4, 2021

MANUFACTURING DAY 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 at 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.

JCPenney building sold to local business owner Village of Machesney Park officials announced the sale of the former JCPenney Building at 8702 N. 2nd Street to James Michalsen, Jr., JM Commercial Properties, LLC. The fully-leased, 100,000-sq.-ft. building sold for $995,000. The village acquired the building in 2015 for $782,000 to help revitalize the area. Since then, it’s been leased to five users: Maximum Performance (fitness center and axe throwing facility); corporate offices for TLC Illinois, LLC; Menta Academy (special education school); PCI Pharma Services, and Rodney Gustafson. Several acres of the south parking lot now is home to the TLC Assisted Living Facility. The village used the tire and battery

auto repair area of the building as its public works garage for five years; recently moving into a new facility on Gregory Road. “This has been a successful redevelopment project for the village,” said Mayor Steve Johnson. “We took a vacant building, turned it around, and placed it back into the hands of private ownership completely occupied.” Jim Michalsen, Jr., owns Michalsen Office Furniture, 8014 N. 2nd St., Machesney Park. He also has acquired the former Seventh Avenue building on the west side of the former Machesney Park Mall as a warehouse location for his office furniture business.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

in the news MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

1. Dr. Betty LaFrance

2. Laura Pena

9. Julie Fiorucci

3. Dawn Durkin

10. Jennifer Wagner

BOARD APPOINTMENTS Alan Zais, executive director, NI ReACH, was elected president of the North Central Regional Council of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Oﬃcials and to the board of governors of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Oﬃcials. Ian K. Linnabary was reappointed and sworn in as chairman of the Illinois State Board of Elections. Betty La France (1), Ph.D., NIU, and Carl Towns, retired Navy veteran, joined the Northern Illinois Hospice board, and Laura Pena (2), Midwest Community Bank, the Northern Illinois Hospice Foundation board.

NEW HIRES, PROMOTIONS, RETIREMENTS Beef-A-Roo hired Dawn Durkin (3) as operations & community relations manager, a new position. Chad Forster (4), WATT Global Media, joined as a North America sales manager for its agrifood brands and Emily Anderson as

August 2021

4. Chad Forster

11. Rae Duncan

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

5. Michael Laskonis

12. Carrie Flock

6. Dr. Edgardo Perez-Maldonado

13. Ken LaRue

14. Michelle Gorham

digital communications & marketing specialist.

banking, market leader for McHenry and Lake counties.

Region 1 Planning Council welcomed Gabrielle Torina as communications specialist.

Wesley Willows promoted Rae Duncan (11) to director of information technology and hired Carrie Flock (12) as director of nursing.

Chartwell Agency hired Michael Laskonis (5) as senior graphic designer for its growing design and video production team. Lori Lynn Marske and Angel J. Rivera joined as agents at Weichert, Realtors® - Tovar Properties in Loves Park. Dr. Edgardo Perez-Maldonado (6) joined Judson University as chair of its architecture and interior design department. Midwest Community Bank welcomed Margie Nowak (7) to its mortgage origination team.

7. Margie Nowak

Winnebago County State’s Attorney J. Hanley appointed Ken LaRue (13) as chief of the criminal bureau; Julian Zito as assistant state’s attorney, domestic violence unit; Juliette Kula as victim service provider, DUI unit and drug unit; Daniel Storez as administrative assistant, civil unit; Carrie Nims as administrative assistant, DUI unit, and Melanie Daringer as administrative assistant, records unit. Many 7-11 law students and interns were welcomed to assist in court preparation, legal research projects, victim contacts and administrative tasks.

First National Bank and Trust Company promoted Don O’Day to executive vice president chief operating oﬃcer. Leda Vogl (8) joined as Bank Secrecy Act oﬃcer.

EMPLOYEE/COMMUNITY RECOGNITIONS, AWARDS

Blackhawk Bank promoted Julia Fiorucci (9) to mortgage planner in the Machesney Park market and appointed Jennifer Wagner (10) to senior vice president, business

Anali Cisneros, Judson University’s most decorated athlete in the history of the school, ranked #8 in the women’s 20K racewalk in her quest to join the U.S. Olympic

8. Leda Vogl

15. Sen. Dave Syverson

team during the U.S. Olympic Trials on June 26. She’s a six-time NAIA National Champion and a seventime NAIA All-American. Michelle Gorham (14), chief advancement oﬃcer, YMCA of Rock River Valley, recertified as a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE). Ben Wood, Rockford Christian Schools, committed to Coastal Carolina University and later learned he was offered a Division 1 soccer roster spot on the Coastal Carolina University Chanticleers. State Senator Dave Syverson (15) (R-Rockford) received the Legislator of the Year award from the Illinois Association of Air and Critical Care Transport on July 8.

OF GENERAL INTEREST Carrie Zethmayr, president, Zethmayr LLC, and broker with Cawley Chicago, presented the transportation advantages of the I-39 Logistics Corridor for growing companies and highlighted the benefits of Foreign-Trade Zone #176 at the Chicago Industrial Properties’ conference in Rockford.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2021

business

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Laurent House Foundation, Inc., is holding a “Bring the Chair Home” fundraising campaign to return the David Wright chair (also known as the Oberlin chair). Frank Lloyd Wright designed it for the Laurents’ home in 1951. The collector agreed to sell it back at his cost of $11,700. (Value estimated between $20,000 and $25,000).

Area youth participate in University of Illinois Extension’s 4-H Bass Fishing Club in June at the ICF Torstenson Property in Pecatonica. Participants learned about building their own spinnerbait that mimics traits of prey bass likes to eat, before heading out to the ﬁshing pond.

The former Perry Memorial Hospital, a 25-bed critical access facility, now is OSF HealthCare Saint Clare Medical Center and the 15th hospital in the OSF HealthCare Ministry. OSF Saint Clare is one of Bureau County’s largest employers.

Accounting Today magazine ranked Savant No. 3 out of 150 U.S. CPA financial planning firms in its Top Wealth Magnet list. For nine years, Savant has made the list.

Chartwell Agency launched Edgebrook Shopping Center’s marketing campaign, “Everyday. Unexpected,” featuring Edgebrook’s mix of local merchants. KMK Media Group launched a website for Flock It! at www.ﬂockit. com. The consumer division of locally-based manufacturer Cellusuede Products, Inc., sells ﬂocking fibers and equipment to industries and hobbyists internationally. Eight Judson University students in marketing, management, sports management and architecture completed their internships during the 2021 Special Edition of the Chicago Auto Show. They assisted media reporters with credentials and directions during Media Preview Day, handled errands for staff and participated in the first-time Street Fest, with truck models, test drives, food trucks and entertainment outside McCormick Place to promote new car models and concepts. Rockford Park District held a grand re-opening celebration for a $683,000 remodel of Keye-Mallquist Park, 1702 11th St. Funding came from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, The Blazer Foundation, area businesses and other donors to renovate a playground with universal playground surfacing, and create an outdoor fitness area, multi-use sports field and accessible pathway connections. Savant Wealth Management ranked No. 26 out of 50 fee-only Registered Investment Advisors in the nation by InvestmentNews -- the 14th year it’s landed a spot.

After a rigorous, unannounced onsite review in May, Northern Illinois Hospice earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Home Care Accreditation for commitment to providing safe and quality patient care. Rock River Water Reclamation District adopted a new name and logo, the Four Rivers Sanitation Authority, to reﬂect its protection of the watershed that feeds into the Rock, Kishwaukee, Pecatonica and Sugar rivers. Savant Wealth Management made its formal entry into the Michigan market by entering into an agreement to acquire AMDG Financial, a fee-only RIA serving nearly 300 clients, and AMDG Business Advisory Services, a tax and accounting firm, both in Plymouth. Lifescape partnered with Home Depot of Machesney Park on June 30 to provide 50 clients with home planters. Lifescape AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers, Lifescape staff and Home Depot staff set up the gardens at clients’ homes. Northern Regional Groundwater Protection Planning Committee granted $550 to Natural Land Institute for Family Nature Adventures, a virtual and outdoor adventure series, tailored to families with kids, two to 14, running through Aug. 11, 2021. Visit www. naturalland.org. Available in English and Spanish. Mercyhealth’s Javon Bea Hospital-Riverside received Chest Pain Center Accreditation by the American College of Cardiology based on a rigorous onsite evaluation of the staff’s ability to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients

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

Discovery Center Museum and Thermo Fisher Scientiﬁc unveiled a large-scale interactive version of the Periodic Table of Elements in the outdoor Discovery Park to teach about the fundamental building blocks of all known matter in the universe.

who might be experiencing a heart attack. In also received primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with resuscitation. YMCA of Rock River Valley received $10,000 from The Mill Foundation to support a summer enrichment program for youth and teens at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd and $9,900 to provide childcare for the Mission’s Crisis and Recovery program while parents attend its Works! Center Programs. Chartwell Agency earned eight Hermes Creative Awards by the Association of Marketing and Communications Professionals: Edgebrook Shops marketing campaign, NI ReACH website and Studio GWA website (platinum); Chartwell Agency tradeshow booth, Studio GWA branding and Winnebago County Animal Services website (gold), and Chicago Rockford International Airport’s social media campaign and NIReACH Brand (honorable mention). Anderson Japanese Gardens announced the return of Tuesday Evening in the Gardens on July 6 and going for nine weeks. Features local, regional and national touring artists. Advance online ticket purchases are the cost of regular garden admission for non-members and basic members. Visit www. AndersonGardens.org. Rockford Systems, LLC, accelerated its investment in its PROTECTOR™ Series Shields with the introduction of new models for smaller ﬂoor and benchtop drill presses and milling machines. Shields protect machine operators from sharp ﬂying chips, disengaged workpieces, swarf, lubricants, coolants and loose drill bits. Last year, citations due to noncompliance of the 1910.212 Machine Guarding standard ranked among OSHA’s top 10 most cited violations.

Local college students participated with Phillip Alberti, commercial agriculture educator, University of Illinois Extension, in a replicated research trial on growing industrial hemp and the benefits and disadvantages of various hemp production systems. Rock House Kids received $6,818 from The Mill Foundation to install 24 security cameras in 12 classrooms. Rosecrance received a two-year, $4 million federal grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration to strengthen existing school and community-based programs, including enhancing coordination of triage care at the Rosecrance Mulberry Center and boosting veterans’ services. It also will fund jobs such as behavioral health counselors for schools, family therapists, nurses and crisis support staff. As grant recipient, it also received a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic designation. Wesley Willows presented its 49th annual Box Oﬃce Benefit in July at Starlight Theatre, raising more than $65,000 for the Good Samaritan Fund. The Rockford F.I.R.E. Track and Field program of the Rockford Park District hosted the AAU Central District Qualifier for Illinois, July 3 to 4, at Swanson Stadium, with more than 600 Illinois athletes participating. The top 16 athletes in each event advanced to the AAU Region 13 Qualifier in Joliet. Saint Anthony College of Nursing ranked #2 in the state of Illinois and #74 in the nation for best nursing schools. The RNcareers.org 2021 report evaluated more than 1,800 nursing schools and more than 100,000 data points. The college got an overall ranking of 96.89 percent. Continued on page 19

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2021

business BUSINESS BRIEFS

(continued from page 18)

Region 1 Planning Council received a $200,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity as part of the Oﬃce of Broadband Regional Engagement for Adoption + Digital Equity program. The goal is to expand immediate broadband connectivity and identify current digital inequities in the Northern Stateline Region of the state. Crimson Valley Landscaping celebrated 20 years of business in July. Owner Mike Sanders started the business in his basement in 2001 with a small team of three to five people. It now employs more than 60 people and services Winnebago, Boone and Ogle counties and southern Wisconsin. Restore Counseling & Recovery moved to a new location at 7399

Forest Hills Road in Loves Park. Its drug and alcohol Intensive Outpatient Program is back to face-to-face interactions. NIU STEAM received a $10,000 grant from the Bayer Fund to support STEM Fest and STEM Cafes, free community events that introduce people of all ages to the latest research and innovations in science, technology, engineering and math. UScellular customers in Rockford now have additional access to the company’s 5G network. Other towns with access to UScellular’s 5G network in Illinois include Amboy, Dixon and Galena. Additional 5G coverage will be added. Brian Thomas Photography was hired by Crawford, Murphy & Tilly for aerial views documenting the progress of 14 airport projects done for compliance.

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

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

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August 2021

on digital

MEMBER PICS

David Bear of the Bear Family Restaurants holds a grand reopening for its remodeled McDonald’s at 930 W. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, on June 29. The restaurant had continuous air puriﬁcation systems installed; a side-by-side, double drive-thru; mobile ordering and pay with table service; self-order kiosks; expanded dining room; digital menu boards; curbside pick-up, and McDelivery on the Mobile app. David Bear’s mother, Marcelle, was Fred Turner’s (McDonald’s CEO) secretary in 1962. June Martino, the secretary to Ray Kroc, was David’s Godmother. David’s father, Jerry, is the innovator of the world’s ﬁrst double drive-thru.

Edward Jones - Joan Van Allen, ChFC®, Financial Advisor, holds a ribbon cutting on July 15 at 5919 Forest Hills Road, Rockford.

Luminaire Financial Group holds a ribbon cutting on July 27 at Olson Swedish Heritage Park, 7901 Harlem Road, Loves Park.

Rock Valley Credit Union adds Personal Teller Machines to the drive-thru of its Loves Park location. It’s the ﬁrst credit union in the region to offer the technology, which allows members to deposit funds, make loan payments, transfer money between accounts and get cash.

Remedies Renewing Lives holds a ribbon cutting celebrating more than 60 years providing services for individuals struggling with addiction on July 29 at 220 Easton Pkwy., Rockford. It provides emergency shelter, advocacy and services for survivors of domestic violence.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2021

community

COMMUNITY EVENTS & WEBINARS

AUGUST 2021 SUNDAY, AUGUST 1 Natural Land Institute presents Family Nature Adventures tailored to families with kids ages two to 14. Kids can earn a Junior Naturalist badge and certificate for free by completing six of 14 of the activities and the final participation form by Aug 11. Register at www. naturalland.org/ familynatureadventures.

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 and have a minimum 2,000 x 2,000 resolution. Visit WNIJ.org. Rockford Park District presents Family Golf Lessons at Aldeen Golf Club & Practice Centre weekly on Mondays through Aug. 16, 6 to 7 p.m. Participants grouped into three age ranges (4 to 6, 7 to 14 and 15 to adult). Advance registration required at shop.golfrockford.org/events.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 3 Women of Today’s Manufacturing (WOTM) hosts its annual Golf Outing Fundraiser at Swanhills Golf Course, 2600 Gustafson Road, Belvidere, to raise money for its scholarship programs. Noon, lunch; 1 p.m., shotgun start; 5 p.m., dinner and prizes. Register at wotmrockford.com/events.

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 event, 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. Midway Village Museum presents Decades: Travel Through Time with Charlotte’s Web Music of the 70s Stage, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors walk through seven interactive stations of Rockford history, 1830s to 1970s, with history interpreters in period clothing and entertainers from Charlotte’s Web featuring music of the 1970s. Tickets at 815-397-9112 or tinyurl.com/ decadescharlottesweb. KFACT, Keeping Families and Communities Together, hosts its fourth-annual Community Trunk Party, 10 a.m. to noon, with donations collected for KFACT Scholars committed to postsecondary education at Fitness Works, 3619 Morsay Dr., Rockford. Ideas include dorm room essentials, laptops, wireless printers, USB drives and RVC gift cards for books and supplies. Visit www.K-FACT.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.

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

Rockford Park District hosts a free, guided, two-mile Sculpture Walk along the Rock River Recreation Path on Aug. 12 and Sept. 9, 10:30 a.m. to noon. Departs from the Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens entrance, 1354 N. Second St., and features 16 sculptures, some by local artists. Registration required at nicholasconservatory.com/activities or 815-987-8858.

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. Discovery Center Museum hosts To Inﬁnity & Beyond, a Family Fun Day event, 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. Call 815-963-6769 or www. discoverycentermuseum.org for reservations. Early bird registration due for Rockford Park District’s fall 2021 Adult Slo-Pitch Softball leagues. Registration closes Aug. 27 or until capacity. Visit www. rockfordparkdistrict.org/leagues, 815-987-8800 or 815-987-1640.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 14 First National Bank and Trust hosts a free Shred Day, 9 a.m. to noon, at its branch at 2636 S. US Highway 51, Janesville. Limit of six boxes of shred per person.

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.

SEPTEMBER 2021 SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful hosts a Clothing Drive at four locations. Welcome are clean clothing, wearable or not, pillows, bedding, fabric, purses, belts, shoes, soft-sided luggage and stuffed toys. Visit knib.org.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 First National Bank and Trust hosts a free Shred Day, 9 a.m. to noon, at its branch at 5360 Bridge St., Roscoe.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 Tickets are on sale for Blippi The Musical, 6 p.m., at Coronado Performing Arts Center. Visit coronadopac.org.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful hosts a Golf Play Day fundraising event at Timber Pointe Golf Course. Shotgun start at 9 a.m. Games, prizes, food and beverages included. Sign up at www.knib.org.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2021

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS Thank you to members who renewed with the Rockford Chamber of Commerce in June 2021 11th Street Express Printing, Inc. ARCO Machinery Movers LLC AT&T Blackhawk Bank Bluebird Network LLC Broadway Florist C & H Design Center Cicero, France & Alexander, P.C. Community Foundation of Northern Illinois Corporate Services, Inc Crimson Pointe Crimson Valley Landscaping Express Employment Professionals Fairhaven Christian Retirement Center Feldco Windows, Siding & Doors First Northern Credit Union — Show Place Dr First Northern Credit Union — Stalter Dr Freed Plumbing, Inc. Fridh Corporation Friends of the Coronado Gallagher GinestraWatson Co. Heinzeroth Marketing Group Heritage Woods of Rockford Honest Pest Control Inc. HR Capital Management Consultants Hulsebus Rockford Chiropractic Ignition Studio, Inc. Ingenium Aerospace LLC Ingersoll Machine Tools J & M Plating, Inc. Johnson Controls, Inc. Junior League of Rockford, Inc. Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden KP Counseling Management, LLC LDR Cleaning & Restoration, Inc. Lonnie’s Stonecrafters, Inc. M3 Insurance MainStreet Financial Group McDonalds - Bear Family Restaurants - Kishwaukee

McDonalds - Bear Family Restaurants - Auburn McDonalds - Bear Family Restaurants - Northridge McDonalds - Bear Family Restaurants - West Riverside Midwest Mailworks, Inc. Mosaic in Rockford NTS Technical Systems Pearson Plumbing & Heating Co. PNC Bank Prairie State Legal Services Inc. Premier Technologies Pro Legal Care LLC RBC Wealth Management Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren P.C. Reno & Zahm LLP RJ Link International, Inc. Rock River Valley Tooling & Machining Association Rock Road Companies, Inc. Rockford Endodontics Alex C. Moore, DMD, PC Rockford Linear Actuation, Inc. Rocknel Fastener, Inc. RSM US LLP Sam’s Club, A Division of Wal-Mart Stores Sikich LLP Skills on Point, LLC State Farm Insurance Brian Faulk, CLU, ChFC Staybridge Suites StraightLine Moving Inc. Summit CPA Group, P.C. Sunset Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens The Terrace Senior Apartments Thermo Fisher Scientific United States Postal Service Westminster Presbyterian Church Widmer Interiors Winnebago Motor Homes Wired Café

Public invited to comment on four-year regional transportation plan The Region 1 Planning Council seeks public comment through Wednesday, Aug. 18 on the draft FY 2022-2025 Transportation Improvement Program for the Rockford Region. Each year, the council develops a Transportation Improvement Program to document infrastructure and non-infrastructure transportation projects within the Rockford metropolitan planning area for the next four fiscal years. This includes all surface transportation projects receiving federal and state funding, projects of regional significance and public transportation operations and/or capital. This includes highway, public transit, bicycle and pedestrian projects, as well as intelligent transportation system and freight-related projects. While not federally required, locally-sponsored transportation projects also are included to improve local communication, coordination and transparency. For more information, visit r1planning.org. Submit comments to Melisa Ribikawskis, metropolitan planner, 127 N. Wyman St., Suite 100, Rockford, IL 61101; 815-319-4187 or mribikawskis@r1planning.org.

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS CLEANPOWER Over 50 years’ experience providing facility services, including regular commercial janitorial services for all varieties. 124 N. 121st St. Wauawtosa, WI 53226 Michael Glenn 872-216-1016 www.cleanpower1.com

GERONIMO HOSPITALITY GROUP Geronimo owns and operates a growing collection of award-winning upscale boutique hotels, restaurants and clubs. 525 3rd St. Beloit, WI 53511 RoseAnn Haedt 608-362-8981 www.geronimohospitalitygroup.com

ICRG (INNER CITY RECONSTRUCTION GROUP) Community Service, Education, Training, Reentry 438 Gershwin Lane Loves Park, IL 61115 Tommy Meeks 815-218-2861 www.juneteenth1865.com

LAW OFFICE OF MARIO J. TARARA Real Estate and Business Law Oﬃce 3600 E. State St., Ste. 315, 61108 Mario Tarara 815-399-6090

LITTLE NICK’S BBQ Authentic Mississippi BBQ made with timeless methods and techniques. Carry Out and Delivery; Catering 3118 Auburn St., 61101 Thaddeus Denthriff II 815-697-4227 www.littlenicksbbq.com

MUSLIM ASSOCIATION OF GREATER ROCKFORD Community based oﬀers services: Education, Interfaith, Youth, Business, Networking 5921 Darlene Dr., 61109 Mustafa Abdall 815-397-3311 https://magr.org/

RIPE LIFE JUICE CO. Makers of Cold Pressed Juices and Smoothies 308 W. State St., Ste. 135, 61103 Jamar Luster 815-601-6480 www.ripelifejuice.com/

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

35-YEAR MEMBER

10-YEAR MEMBERS

Northern Public Radio (WNIU/WNIJ/NIRIS)

Blake Oil Company

30-YEAR MEMBER PACCAR Parts, A Division of PACCAR

15-YEAR MEMBERS

Ethnic Heritage Museum/ Graham-Ginestra House Rasmussen University

Radisson Hotel & Conference Center Sinnissippi Apartments Inc.

5-YEAR MEMBERS

11th Street Express Printing, Inc. Laurent House Foundation, Inc. The National Alliance on Mental Illinois (NAMI) Northern Illinois

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

CHaMBER

ADVERTISERS INDEX

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

AUGUST, 2021 THURSDAY, AUGUST 5 Ribbon cutting, Allen Galluzzo Hevrin Leake, LLC, 2 to 3 pm, at 6575 Vistagreen Way, Ste. 110, Rockford.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 11 Business Connection Hiring Event, 9 to 11:00 am at Indoor City Market - Lower Level, 116 N. Madison Street, Rockford.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12 Heartbeat of Healthcare, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Prairie Street Brewing Co., 200 Prairie St., Ste. 203, Rockford. Keynote speaker is Dr. Alex Stagnaro-Green, regional dean of the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford. Sponsored by BMO Harris Bank (Community Series Presenting); Humana, Rosecrance Health Network and SwedishAmerican, A Division of UW Health (Gold); Comcast Business (Community Series Silver); Northern Illinois Hospice, Quartz and Van Matre Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital (Silver), and Mindy Joy Photography (Photography).

FRIDAY, AUGUST 13 Government Affairs Council, 7:30 to 9 am, Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St., Rockford. “Achieving Government Efficiency and Effectiveness for Our Community” Sponsored by AT&T.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18 Breakfast Buzz, 8 to 9:30 am at Rockford University-Puri School of

August 2021

Business, Room 124, 5050 East State Street, Rockford. Features Emily Selck, M3 Insurance, on “Cyber Risk: What Executives & Business Owners Need to Know.” Sponsored by RSM US LLP.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 26 Business Women’s Council, 11:30 am to 1 pm, Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford. Sponsored by Associated Bank.

Blackhawk Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Rockford University. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

BMO Harris Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Stillman Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP . . . . . . . . . . . 2

SwedishAmerican, A Division of UW Health . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Illinois Bank & Trust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 The Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) . . . . . . . . 6 Mercyhealth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Northern Public Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 OSF HealthCare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 Ribbon cutting, Restore Counseling & Recovery, 1 to 2 pm, 7399 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 Government Aﬀairs Council, 7:30 to 9 am, Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St., Rockford. Sponsored by AT&T.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 Choose Your Own Adventure Annual Dinner, 4 to 7 p.m., Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford. A limited number of tickets will be sold for each experience (max. of 40 for each). Each experience is outdoors and separated by green space from adjoining experiences. Sponsored by OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center (Presenting), Woodward (Citizen of the Year), Associated Bank (Gold), Comcast Business (Silver) and RSM US LLP (Bronze).

University of Illinois Extension Winnebago County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Union Savings Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Upper Iowa University. . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Rockford Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14, 15, 19, 22-24

VOICE

SEPTEMBER, 2021

Thayer Lighting, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

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

Chair of the Board Dan Ross Community Foundation of Northern Illinois Vice Chair Jean Crosby Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Crosby Starck Real Estate Vice Chair Don Daniels Treasurer Amy Ott Boylan Catholic High School

Michael F. Iasparro Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP

LaVonne Brown Savant Wealth Management 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

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.

SEPTEMBER VOICE SPECIAL SECTIONS Entrepreneurial Trends (Mobile, Green, Diverse, Hyperlocal & Global Businesses)

Business Innovations (Setting Up to Thrive Tomorrow) For information on advertising, call 815

987-8100

August Voice 2021

Articles inside

MEMBER PROFILE - Piranha

Chairman's Perspective - August 2021

Small Business Enterprise - SBDC August 2021

IGNITE August 2021