August Voice 2022

the

NOTHING SPUD THE BEST FOR 90 YEARS

ME AND MY SHADOW PAGE 11

PAGE 5 August 2022 | Volume 35 | No. 8

of the rockford business community WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT CITYBUSINESS PARTNERSHIP

The labor of hiring

Recruitment trends for finding long-term employees

By Andrew Wright, Rockford Chamber of Commerce As we approach Labor Day weekend here in Rockford, now is an important time to reflect on how the notion of jobs and the labor market has changed in a post-pandemic world.

The economic pressures of inflation and supply disruption are affecting the local economy in complex ways. A gallon of gas has been consistently in the high $4.00 range, and people are seeing a rise in costs across the board for food, utilities and other essential goods and services. As a result, there is a pressure on employees to get the most they can out of their career, just to keep up with inflation.

Meanwhile, businesses have been on a hunt for new employees at a record pace.

Lesly Couper, the COO at Workplace Staffing and Search here in Rockford explained, “Right now, there are more jobs than there are people to place in them.”

That means companies are in competition for many of the same qualified candidates, as they push to fill orders and catch up with demand.

Three areas that successful businesses have leveraged to attract and retain their talent are compensation, culture, and a path for career advancement.

“Companies need to make sure their wage is competitive, that they’re being flexible where they can be, and creative where they can be to create individual solutions,” Couper said.

The first thing that prospective employees consider when being hired on at a company is compensation. It’s important for companies to do their research and find out what the market is set at for compensation and to make sure existing employees aren’t lured into the job market by a competitor.

“Employers have to understand the cost of acquisition and to make sure that they’re paying an accurate rate for that position. If for some reason you need to pay someone coming in more than others who are working at your company, you need to ask why — a lot of times employers won’t take the time to analyze their current wages to make sure they’re up to market rate,” Couper said. (continued on page 7)

NAVIGATING THE EBB AND FLOW OF THE CURRENT ECONOMIC CYCLE

Stagflation and small businesses

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It’s been a challenging year, with news headlines highlighting concerns of rising inflation, a bear market, slow economic growth, potential recession and lingering COVID concerns. Another concern rising to the top of the list is stagflation.

Stagflation is an economic term used to define a period with high inflation, coupled with falling economic growth (negative Gross Domestic Product or GDP) and high unemployment. History shows the 1970s as the most recent period of stagflation in the United States. At the moment, we’re experiencing two of the three warning signals, with inflation up 22 percent and real GDP down 0.4 percent since the start of this year*. Although unemployment indicators remain positive and not necessarily a concern right now, we may soon know if this third factor will tip the scales again toward stagflation.

For small business owners, proactive planning can help manage the ebb and flow of the economic cycles. Business owners can consider these ideas to better prepare for a period of stagflation: *Source: www.savantwealth.com/savantviews-news/article/the-stagflation-story/.

GUEST COLUMNISTS

DRAKE GRINDLE Savant Wealth Management

JEFFREY LEWIS Savant Wealth Management

Revisit pricing structure. This environment presents an opportunity to re-evaluate prices. If competitors in your industry are raising prices, consider adjusting yours to combat rising costs.

Boost quality or bundle products and services. For customers who are price-sensitive, consider using a bundled approach or marketing additional features that enhance the quality of your offering.

Even though customers might already be expecting increased prices given the impact of inflation on input costs, introducing improved quality or bundling options can help justify increased prices. (continued on page 3)

In April, Rockford City Council passed a workforce development agreement with LT Construction, a local minority-owned concrete construction contractor, to provide mentorship, experience and workforce development skills to young adults that represent at-risk and underserved populations.

The group finished the initial sidewalk work for the city, pouring 3,100 linear feet of concrete.

“Three out of the five mentees in the program have been hired by local contractors,” said Mayor McNamara. “With the initial phase complete, we are now hiring three new workers for the next phase of concrete work with LT Construction.”

M A R K YO U R C A L E N D A R !

ROCKFORD CHAMBER

ANNUAL DINNER

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 | 5:30 - 8p Tebala Event Center | 7910 Newburg Rd. For more information, see page 29 PRESENTING SPONSOR

STATE OFFERS FREE COVID TESTS FOR UPCOMING SCHOOL YEAR Illinois again will offer on-demand saliva testing for the COVID-19 virus, at no charge to public schools for the 2022-2023 academic year.

The Illinois Department of Public Health renewed its agreement to allow public schools free use of SHIELD Illinois, operated by the University of Illinois, which provides weekly saliva-based PCR testing at public schools, private businesses and government agencies, including the Illinois General Assembly.

PCR test results are available on average within 16 hours of collection time. Testing in Illinois is paid for with federal funds from the CARES Act, American Rescue Plan and Operation Expanded Testing.

Visit rockford.medicine.uic.edu.

GRANTS FOR THE CORONADO As the owner of the Coronado Performing Arts Center, the city of Rockford recently applied for, and was awarded, two grants to help with preserving and repairing the theater, specifically the 95-yearold facade. It received more than $700,000 of funding from the Rebuild Illinois funding program, with another $200,000 in state funds secured by Sen. Steve Stadelman. In addition, the city also received $500,000 from the Tourism Attractions and Festival Grant Program.

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2022

MUSINGS FROM THE ROAD:

DAN ROSS Rockford Chamber Board Chairman

Lessons learned during vacation with extended family

I am writing this from a passenger train heading from San Francisco to Chicago after a lengthy vacation with extended family. To say it has been an adventure would be a bit of an understatement, but I have been struck with a number of lessons during this journey that I thought I would share while they are top of mind.

Below are my top five.

5. Find the silver lining. For those of you that follow my social media, you know that we have experienced significant delays in our train service — seven hours on the way out, and nearly 18 hours on the way home. Those delays led to a number of other issues, e.g., rental car woes, missed social plans and many rescheduled meetings. As I reflect on the experience though, those delays also put me in a position to have an additional 18 hours with my kids in the most captive of situations. In about a month, I will be an empty nester, and I will appreciate every extra moment I had with my kids before they left.

4. Customer service is everything. We traveled from Anaheim to San Francisco and experienced every type of customer service imaginable. I can say, without a doubt, that the customer service from one place to the next makes all the difference in the experience. Case in point … we were evacuated from our rental home just outside of Yosemite due to the wildfires spreading rapidly a few miles outside of our house. Every single person we encountered was fantastic — from the homeowner who notified us to evacuate and let us out of the contract, to the front desk clerk at the cheap hotel we found 30 miles away. These were some very stressful and somewhat scary times, and everyone did their best to help us out. As such, I welcome the opportunity to get back there in the future. We all can probably bring this back to our businesses.

3. Don’t waste energy on what you cannot control. I definitely cannot control the delays on the train, the winds that caused the fire to shift to where we were staying or the speed of the ER a family member had to visit in northern California.

It is probably not worth going to the mat for cereal versus eggs, but there are many things in our business and personal lives that are worth fighting for.

Unfortunately, I spent an awful lot of time being upset about those things, and it did me no good. I was in a much better place when I focused on things I could impact.

I see this all the time in my business life as well.

2. Be decisive, but know when to compromise. If you have ever traveled with a large group of family members, the smallest of decisions, like what to do for breakfast, can turn into the largest discussions. We were all afraid of speaking our mind, and that lead to delays and frustration. Someone just needed to make a decision. That being said, know what decisions are those you want to “die on the hill” for versus those that you can simply go with the flow. It is probably not worth going to the mat for cereal versus eggs, but there are many things in our business and personal lives that are worth fighting for.

1. Be thankful; it is never as bad as you think. As late as we were boarding our train yesterday, I was pretty grumpy. I was getting madder by the moment waiting for food to be served because we hadn’t eaten in quite a while. As we started to pull out of the station, we passed a gigantic tent city with people

living under the harshest of conditions.

Suddenly my slight inconveniences didn’t seem very important. I find that I can easily get sidelined at work and at home by what isn’t going right, but I need to remember all of the blessings I have.

Dan Ross is chair of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce 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. 350 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. 350, 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. 350, Rockford, IL 61101.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

STAGFLATION Continued from front page

Buy and sell in bulk. See if any purchasing co-ops exist in your industry to help drive down costs on raw materials or sell in bulk to increase volume and combat lower margins. Offer discounts or other benefits to help increase sales volume.

Strengthen the balance sheet. Review debt terms and refinance any variable or floating interest rate debt to a fixed-rate structure. Although fixed-rate options can be more expensive at first, they can reduce the risk of interest rates jumping quickly in a rising interest rate environment and provide more predictability for cash-flow planning.

Shorten collection on sales; lengthen payment terms. Try to improve cash flow by shortening the period in which you close out account receivables. At the same time, try negotiating with vendors for more favorable terms for goods and materials.

Improve productivity. One benefit business owners have today vs. business owners in the ’70s is improved technology, including automation. This has helped businesses streamline and systematize repeatable processes formerly performed by skilled labor. Investing in new software or machinery can help automate processes and reduce operational inefficiencies.

Business owners have not only had to navigate the ebbs and flows of the current economic cycle; they have also had to navigate what some economists have termed, “The Great Resignation.” Over the

August 2022

last year, the rate of job resignations in the U.S. has reached new highs. The recent quit rates are too high to be explained solely by labor market tightening, and it has challenged business owners to think differently when it comes to attracting and retaining talent. When competing for labor, business owners should consider whether it makes sense to offer incentives, such as 401(k) matching, profit sharing, one-time bonuses or opportunities to buy into the company.

Small businesses often face hurdles, even in the best of economic times. But a bit of contingency planning and strategic preparation can help business owners stay afloat — and even thrive — when the going gets tough. v Drake Grindle, CPA, CFP®, CEPA, MAS, and Jeffrey Lewis, CFP®, ChFC®, CRPS®, are financial advisors at Savant Wealth Management. Both received the Rockford Chamber’s 40 Under Forty award in 2022.

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

This is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment or financial advice. Please consult your investment and financial professional(s) regarding your unique situation.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP® and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM in the U.S., which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

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Andrew Wright joins the Rockford Chamber of Commerce On July 18, Andrew Wright joined the Rockford Chamber of Commerce as the director of strategic initiatives.

Wright, 48, is a Rockford native, graduating from Auburn High School in 1991, then returning to the city after graduating from Luther College in 1995.

A vocal advocate for his hometown, Wright is the longtime voice of the Rockford Rage Roller Derby. He worked for the Rockford IceHogs when they won the Colonial Cup in 2007, and spent the past decade with AFLAC. He’s a member of the 2012 class of 40 Leaders Under 40, and you might recognize his byline from recent 40 Leaders Under Forty honorees.

Wright also hosted a podcast about Rockford-area pizza restaurants and loves to share positive stories about the Forest City whenever he can.

“One thing I never regret doing is volunteering my time,” said Wright, who has volunteered with the Forest City Community Cup gaming fundraiser, the Friends of Beyer Park and other local nonprofits.

Wright was an Ambassador for the Rockford Chamber between 2000 and 2008, and he is excited to return to

the chamber after working 12 years in the insurance industry.

Wright’s role with the Rockford Chamber includes contributing articles for The Voice and other chamber publications, building brand strength within the chamber, running the Leadership Rockford program and working with staff to continue building a culture of positivity and service to members.

“I am so excited to have Andrew join our team,” said Rockford Chamber President Caitlin Pusateri. “He brings a great enthusiasm and a love of the community. Combined with his willingness to jump in and take initiative, Andrew is the ideal team member to help us move the chamber forward.”

Strategic thinking is something Wright applies to his off hours as well.

Whether he’s serving as a volunteer at his local game shop or playing board games with family and friends, Wright is always looking for the best moves to deliver success.

“Success should be fun,” Wright said.

“There’s no better feeling than working with a team and hitting a goal you set together.”

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2022

ABC to open contractor supply center in Machesney Park ABC Supply Company, Inc, a national building materials supply company headquartered in Beloit, Wisconsin, announced construction of a new sales and distribution center warehouse in Machesney Park.

The Village Board of Trustees approved a development agreement to facilitate the company’s construction of a 15,000-square-foot addition to an existing building near the intersection of Interstate 39-90 and Route 173. Once complete, the warehouse will be 45,000 square feet.

ABC Supply joins other businesses in the Park 90 industrial park, including Quantum Design, TH Foods, HMC Products and SCP Distributors. Warehouse operations are expected to begin in the first quarter of 2023 with a total of 22 employees.

IGNITE: YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

What is IGNITE? CARMEN KELLERMAN Rockford Chamber

Getting involved in the community where you work, live, learn, play

IGNITE is the region’s young professional group and part of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

IGNITE members do not have to be Rockford Chamber members to join, but IGNITE members are always welcome to learn more about being a member.

Our mission is to attract and retain young professionals to the Rockford region. We do this by connecting and engaging young professionals with leadership, professional and personal development and volunteer opportunities.

IGNITE’s program is suitable for individuals between the ages of 21 to 40. However, all are welcome in our group. Young professionals can be found in a wide variety of careers, and IGNITE is not limited to any specific line of work. Our group is full of diversity, and we would love to keep it that way.

“What can IGNITE provide me?”

Our mission is to attract and retain young professionals to the Rockford region. … IGNITE’s program is suitable for individuals between the ages of 21 to 40. However, all are welcome. local community. This could mean encouraging YPs to attend a city council meeting or become a mentor for seniors through Alignment Rockford.

It could mean writing a column in the Rockford Chamber’s newspaper, The VOICE, or getting involved with Transform Rockford. Our community is constantly changing and so is our involvement, but our commitment to Rockford stays the same. We are

IGNITE focuses on professional development, volunteering, community and social aspects of life.

always in 100 percent.

Professional Development. Professional development is a key area for YPs. In the beginning to middle stages of our careers, it is important that we grow as engaged members of our community as well as professionals.

At IGNITE, we provide opportunities to meet key leaders in our community through our Lunch with a Leader series. Our leadership team is always happy to help make connections such as jobs, board seats, business opportunities and more.

Prairie Fire in Byron, 5:30 to 7:30

Volunteering.

As young professionals, it is important that we give back to the communities we live, work, learn and play in. Not only does this help our communities grow stronger and healthier, but it also allows YPs an important chance to expand their networks, engage in the non-profit side of our community, learn more and even improve their resumes. Young professionals could also join us at our Meet the Nonprofit series to learn more about the different organizations in our community.

Community. We are constantly looking for new ways to keep YPs engaged in the community. This is an ever-expanding and changing task, but IGNITE is up for the challenge.

We are committed to encouraging our members to be a part of their

Social. Upcoming IGNITE events.

August 17. IGNITE After 5 at p.m. Join IGNITE members as we get to experience Toptracer® technology.

Toptracer® takes golf — no matter how well you swing the club — to amazing new levels of excitement with instantaneous feedback. Each time you hit the ball, Toptracer®’s colorful interactive screen gives you instant shot replays and lots of cool data in living color. Stop in at any point during the night.

August A

25.

Nonprofit

IGNITE featuring

Meets Crusader

Community Health, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Join IGNITE members as we hear from Crusader Community Health.

If you are able, we are asking you to donate diapers and wipes for the new moms and babies. We will collect these at the event.

To learn more about IGNITE, check out our Facebook at IGNITE Rockford or our Instagram @igniterockfordyp.

If there are ever any questions or if you are interested in joining IGNITE, please contact Carmen Kellerman, IGNITE

coordinator,

ckellerman@

rockfordchamber.com.

Carmen Kellerman is events manager at the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2022

profile

5

MEMBER PROFILE

CELEBRATING 90 YEARS OF DELICIOUSNESS

Company Vice President Chris Spiess says Mrs. Fisher’s turns 2.7 million pounds of raw potatoes each year into its wellknown potato chips.

Mrs. Fishers, Inc.

By Paul Anthony Arco Rockford is known for many things, including Cheap Trick, the Rockford Peaches and Fred VanVleet. And for a world of snack lovers, Mrs. Fisher’s potato chips rank high on that list as well.

The mouth-watering snacks, which come in several flavors, have been produced here in Rockford for 90 years.

They are beloved, both near and far, by loyal customers who are commonly referred to as ‘Fisher fans.’ And who can resist the adorable Spuddy, the iconic dancing potato who adorns every bag?

How popular are these chips? “We’re usually the first stop people make when they’re in town,” says Chris Spiess, the company’s vice president. “Sometimes they don’t even tell their family they’re in town first.”

Mrs. Fisher’s was founded in 1932 by Ethel and Eugene Fisher, who started the business in their basement to make extra money. The longest-running owners, brothers Chuck, Pete and Paul DiVenti, ran the business for 30 years, before turning the reigns over to Mark and Roma Hailman. Roma spent years working in production and accounting before assuming control of the business with her husband in 2007. Mark died six years later

and now Roma runs the business with the help of her nephew, Spiess.

“When Mark passed away, it left a huge void in our business,” said Spiess, who joined the family business 15 years ago, coming from Schnuck’s where he worked in the bakery. “Roma understands it’s not easy to be a small business these days.

There is a lot of stress and pressure to be successful, but she has picked a talented team who will get us through.”

Plans to reach every store in Illinois With 18 employees, Mrs. Fisher’s has been churning out chips at the same 10,000-square-foot plant on Fulton Avenue for the past 50 years, with no plans of leaving Rockford’s north end. “This is our home,” said Spiess. “Many of our loyal fans who we know by first name come in here every day, and we don’t want to disappoint them.”

Mrs. Fisher’s offerings include the everpopular classic, ripple cut, barbecue and French onion. Others include cheddar and sour cream, a brown and crispy ‘dark chip’ and Dark Jalapeno, which is the second-best seller.

“Our customers like a hearty chip that has a thick cut, good salt content, good

crunch and unique flavor,” said Spiess.

“There is nothing like a Mrs. Fisher’s chip.

When people walk in, they say they’ve never tasted anything like it before. Then they walk out with a box of chips to put in their trunk.”

Much of the company’s original equipment remains in place, including the fryer that Spiess said may be a relic but enhances the signature crunch and taste of the chips. The company buys 2.7 million pounds of raw potatoes each year from distributors across the country. A Spudnik machine unloads the potatoes on a conveyor belt, where they are washed, sliced, fried, and salted and placed in bags.

Mrs. Fisher’s produces 13,000 pounds of chips each day.

Four route drivers and five distributors deliver the chips within a 100-mile

radius of Rockford, including Wisconsin and Chicago. Chips are also available in Peoria, and the company has loftier goals.

“We want to become Illinois’s official chip,” Spiess said. “We want to be in every store in the state.”

The plant includes a retail store where people can walk in to order chips by the bag or bucket, along with accessories such as dips and apparel. Mrs. Fisher’s chips can be shipped anywhere in the country and are popular gifts for college students or members of the military.

Spiess calls Mrs. Fisher’s a generational business.

“Your great grandmother might have gone to church with Ethel Fisher. Your grandkids might have had our chips with a ham sandwich at lunch,” he said. “It’s cool to know that generations of Fisher fans have turned to us for their snack needs for this long.”

MRS. FISHER’S INC. Owner: Roma Hailman 1231 Fulton Ave. 815-964-9114 www.mrsfisherschips.com

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2022

Leading a company through an inflationary spike

“Remember, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, companies demonstrated their ability to reinvent themselves more quickly and thoroughly than they had once thought possible.”

McKinsey releases report with actions CEO can take McKinsey & Company in its April 2022 McKinsey Quarterly released, “Navigating inflation: A new playbook for CEOs,” looking at the work of hundreds of companies.

Authors Asutosh Padhi, Sven Smit, Ezra Greenberg and Roman Belotserkovskiy, partners at various McKinsey sites, published the 11-page report. The full report can be found at https://www.mckinsey.com/businessfunctions/strategy-and-corporatefinance/our-insights/navigatinginflation-a-new-playbook-for-ceos.

The following is a sample: Last year, policy makers, economists, and financial-market participants fiercely debated the higher inflation then under way. Was it a transitory problem, caused by dislocations from the COVID-19 pandemic that would inevitably fade, or was it a more fundamental and potentially permanent shift? CEOs told us that they viewed this debate as detached from the business environment in which they operated.

For them, higher inflation was already “permanent enough” to start asking whether a fundamental shift in the way they led and managed their organizations

was required. We agreed.

Questions CEOs should ask ■ Where will customers see value in this new environment? How can we design products, services, and experiences to deliver this value?

■ What is the fastest way to stabilize and redesign stretched and, in some cases, broken supply chains? What capabilities will I need to increase my company’s resilience and control costs?

■ What direction should I give to help procurement leaders create value?

■ How is the new talent landscape affecting compensation, benefits, and workplace norms? What can I do to attract and retain employees in today’s shifting labor market?

■ How should I pursue repricing in an inflationary environment? How can I form a through-cycle and strategic mindset for my customer relationships?

■ How can I set priorities and organize to direct all this activity?

The CEO is an organization’s ultimate integrator. Our research into the

behaviors and mindsets of excellent CEOs shows the pivotal role that chief executives play in setting a clear direction, aligning the organization, managing stakeholders, and serving as “motivator in chief.”

The best CEOs act boldly, of course, but also operate from core mindsets that often belie the classic image of the hardcharging executive: they approach important decisions by listening first, treat “soft” culture topics as a hard material advantage, empower employees, and ask questions constantly.

Redesign product and service offerings for value and availability CEOs know that design choices for products and services are critical for responding to the volatility of commodities, the scarcity of components, and higher production and servicing costs — all while maintaining the core functionality customers require.

Consider these examples of agile approaches that best-practice operators across sectors have used: • Rapidly redesign products and services to adjust to new realities • Challenge specification orthodoxies • Redesign the way you provide service • Promote near-substitutes.

Clean-sheet and build digital, integrated, transparent, and agile supply chains • Make your entire supply chain visible • Identify and manage potential supply chain risks • Make seamless end-to-end planning a CEO priority Transform procurement to create value, not just cut costs • Expanding focus to “everything is in play.”

• Basing contracts on the current reality.

• Rethinking logistics and geographic sources.

• Considering vertical integration.

• Investing in technology and process automation.

Adjust to the new talent game • Don’t believe it’s enough to rethink compensation and benefits • Make your work model ‘sticky • Find nontraditional and ‘latent’ workers

Set prices to strengthen customer relationships • How can we adjust discounting and promotions and maximize nonprice levers?

• Can analytics help us personalize more effectively?

• Can we communicate our value more effectively?

An inflation program management office We believe that CEOs should opt for a more proactive, durable management office for their inflation program. Such a center can benefit the entire enterprise by improving the pace and quality of its decision making and helping it to focus more on strategic action and less on firefighting. Achieving this goal requires a few important steps that only the CEO can take: ■ setting a clear mandate and goals, communicated to the entire organization, for the inflation management office.

■ empowering the CFO or another direct report to coordinate these activities and carry out the CEO mandate.

■ selecting a team of functional leaders (for instance, HR, commercial, supply chain, operations, engineering, and finance) who have a bias for action and may not be department heads.

■ making it clear that decisions must often be taken in the face of significant uncertainty and that mistakes will undoubtedly be made.

■ insisting on a systematic, factbased approach to transparently track execution, diagnose wins and losses, correct course, and learn.

Asutosh Padhi is senior partner in McKinsey’s Chicago office, Sven Smit senior partner in the Amsterdam office, Ezra Greenberg partner in the Stamford office and Roman Belotserkovskiy partner in the Austin office. They thank Edward Barriball, Aaron De Smet, Carolyn Dewar, Krzysztof Kwiatkowski, Marta Mussacaleca, Jesse Nading and Mike Parkins for their contributions. Copyright © 2022 McKinsey & Company. All rights reserved.

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

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

LABOR

August 2022

Association (NIBCA), will tell you

Continued from front page

honestly that construction conditions are

“We’ve had back-to-back years with 30 or more apprenticeship candidates going through classes,” Alan Golden said. Golden is the business manager for the IBEW local 364 and president of the Northwest Illinois Building Trades. “I’ve interviewed a growing number of college graduates who have found that their degrees aren’t leading them to careers that make much money. Apprentices who graduate as an electrician can receive their associates degree from Rock Valley College and can start earning $52 an hour once their apprenticeship is complete.”

But it goes further than simple compensation. The culture of a company can enhance an employee’s career and help generate strong labor retention for a company that builds up its employees.

Adam Derry, president of Field, explained how important culture is to his company’s success. “We used to hire for job description first and culture second, but we’ve recently reversed that order of importance. Now we look for genuine, authentic, hard-working candidates who care about others and are committed to support our customers and each other.”

Field has one of the strongest cases to make that culture generates success. With steady annual growth for the past 32 years, Field has grown from a local firm with 12 employees to a multi-national company with 250 employees in North America and Asia. “Our turnover is exceptionally low. We believe it’s in our best interests and the best for the team member if we front load the costs of hiring, to avoid the high cost of bad hires,” Derry said.

Couper agrees, “Companies with good retention have employees that feel recognized and part of the team. The company cares about the employees and the customers, and employees feel good about doing the work.”

That’s increasingly important when acknowledging that different workplaces have different demands.

David Anspaugh, executive director of the Northern Illinois Building Contractors

working in the rain, doing a dirty, physical

pretty harsh. “Hot summers, cold winters, job. Construction is a tough industry.”

But the benefits are there for entrepreneurial workers, and it doesn’t require a college education to get a good paying job in the industry. “In this economy, kids are increasingly wanting to get out and start working after high school.” Apprenticeship programs help job seekers pick up the skills they need to have success. “Your career path is determined on wanting to learn — if you do that and excel, you’ll make a good living within your community,” Anspaugh said.

Successful companies also know that training leads to career advancement, and more success with employee retention.

Derry described the importance Field assigns to their training as a key indicator in

career

advancement

within

the

company. “Training is important because we can learn the career paths of our team while they can learn [the skills] they need to advance.”

Other factors that help with employee retention include creative flexibility, particularly when it comes to how, when and where they do their work.

The pandemic taught many employees that they can work from home, and that remote work can save them commute time and money, while also helping save on the costs of child care. “Employees have more success when they feel valued, when they belong, and when they know that they’re contribution is important to their company,” Couper explained.

At the end of the day, a good hire with a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn is a big win for the future success of a company. And Golden believes that Rockford is a great place to find those candidates. “The labor here in Rockford, I don’t care what industry you’re in, it’s different than anywhere else. Rockford has work ethic that can’t be matched.” v

Adam Derry, president of Field, explained how important culture is to his company’s success. “We used to hire for job description first and culture second, but we’ve recently reversed that order of importance. Now we look for genuine, authentic, hard-working candidates who care about others and are committed to support our customers and each other.”

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8

SPECIAL SECTION The Education Issue

August 2022

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

GUEST COLUMNIST

Educational opportunities leading to successful careers DR. MICHAEL QUINN Rockford University

New human services degree trains in social justice for marginalized populations

Employers and business owners know that finding qualified employees was a challenge before the pandemic, and it is nearly impossible today. Staff retention, which can be an issue for many employers, is difficult in this evolving job market. The traditional loyalty bond between employer and employee is weaker than in the past.

In this volatile environment, it is more important than ever to offer opportunities for your employees to advance their education. Investing in their education increases the likelihood that they will feel valued which in turn, leads to stronger loyalty. Employees who return to the classroom to finish their bachelor’s degree will come back with knowledge and skills that give your company the competitive edge it needs.

Cultivating talent within your company is often more cost-effective than finding qualified external candidates.

Offering tuition reimbursement to your employees might not feel like much of a benefit if they do not have time

Cultivating talent within your company is often more cost-effective than finding qualified external candidates. to take classes. Rockford University is offering its bachelor’s degree completion program online offering majors in business management, accounting and human services. Online classes fit into busy schedules, allowing students to study close to where they live and work.

A Variety of Programs The newest addition to the degree completion program, human services, is a fully online program that features eightweek courses beginning in August. This area of study is committed to social justice and advocacy with a specific focus on marginalized and historically oppressed populations, and the human services field

needs qualified people now more than ever.

An increase in degreed workers in Rockford and the surrounding area has the potential for increasing service to our most vulnerable populations.

Management studies provides students the opportunity to focus on one of five high-demand concentrations: leadership, operations management, finance, human resources and marketing. Accounting studies enables students to gain a solid foundation in accounting and familiarity with various accounting procedures.

Degree completion offerings can be finished in as few as 18 to 24 months, depending on the number of credits a student transfers. Ongoing admission, multiple start dates during the year, small class sizes and an affordable per-credit-hour cost make Rockford’s degree completion programs an excellent value. Some of your employees may also be eligible for state and federal financial aid.

The degree completion programs are part of more than 80 majors, minors and

concentrations Rockford University offers for students in the region. The university offers undergraduate degrees in traditional liberal arts and professional preparation disciplines, and available graduate degrees include the master of business administration (MBA), master of arts in teaching (MAT), and master of education in urban education (M.Ed.).

Rockford University was recently chosen

by Amazon as a partner for its Career Choice Program, which enables Amazon employees to attend undergraduate classes at a reduced cost and learn new skills.

Rockford University students develop the knowledge, values and skills that impact their lives and our community, and that has a positive effect on the regional economy.

Dr. Michael Quinn is vice president for enrollment management at Rockford University.

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

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

NIU Esports offers scholarship funded by “the esports doctor” DR. LEVI HARRISON

SPECIAL SECTION The Education Issue

August 2022

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… the NIU Esports program has grown from a small offcampus club to a multifaceted organization …

Vision to build community, promote healthy gaming, support new technologies

For fall 2022, any NIU student gamer can apply for a new scholarship provided

by Dr. Levi Harrison, known as “the esports doctor.” The orthopedic surgeon, who specializes in the treatment of hand, arm and shoulder injuries, also is an avid video game player, mental health advocate and creator of both the TryAngle hand fitness device and Fierce Gamer – an app that provides exercises, meditations, healthy eating advice and other information to promote gamers’ physical and mental well-being.

Dr. Harrison is providing one $1,000 esports scholarship in the first year, adding an additional scholarship each year for the next five years. At least 100 NIU students will also beta test the Fierce Gamer app and use the Try-Angle for hand conditioning exercises.

“People often think that we gamers are alone in our rooms playing games, but we’re really not alone,” Dr. Harrison said. “We’re actually embracing a global, international community. Often, we’re playing with people from different

countries. They don’t even speak our language, but they speak the language of gaming.”

Dr. Harrison, who lives and works in Los Angeles but speaks all over the world to different types of audiences, first connected with NIU Esports when he spoke as part of the NIU Esports career lecture series in 2021. The series shows students a wide range of careers in the esports industry, from coaches to public relations specialists to HR professionals.

“When I gave the lecture at NIU, I was really taken aback by the questions that the students asked, by their engagement, how they embraced me, how they wanted to know more.”

NIU Esports Program According to Jeannine East, director of strategic initiatives in the NIU Division of Outreach, Engagement and Regional Development, the NIU Esports program has grown from a small off-campus club to a multifaceted organization with an academic minor, a student club,

a Gaming for All group, competitive varsity teams and a state-of-the-art esports arena. It’s built upon three pillars: to build community, promote healthy gaming and support new technologies in learning and research.

“With one of our pillars being healthy gaming practices, we really embrace the same goals Dr. Levi has for esports,” said Conner Vagle, esports general manager at NIU. “Mental health is very important in the gaming sphere. Dr. Levi takes a wide-ranging, holistic approach to healthy gaming, and it’s something he and NIU Esports see eye to eye on.”

According to Dr. Harrison, esports

community is plagued with depression, anxiety and issues such as suicidal ideation. “So the goal here is not only to embrace and elevate someone’s physical well-being, but also to really help them elevate their inner dialogue, to help them be very aware of how we treat other people and how we treat ourselves.

“Anything you can do to minimize stress in your life also improves your performance as an athlete and a student.”

Visit www.niu.edu/esports for information on the beta testing project and the new scholarship.

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SPECIAL SECTION The Education Issue

August 2022

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

U.S. School System

Current Spending Per Pupil by Region (FY 2020): Nationwide Average: $13,494

Per pupil spending continues to increase Per pupil spending (pre-K through 12th grade), increased in fiscal year 2020 for the ninth year in a row, up to $13,494 in 2020 from $13,187 in 2019, a 2.3 percent increase from the previous year.

This is the smallest increase since 2013, according to the latest figures from the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Annual Survey of School System Finances. This includes data from the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In fiscal year 2020, the largest portion of public elementary-secondary per pupil spending went toward instructional salaries, which totaled $247.0 billion or 31.8 percent of total expenditures.

Other highlights: ■ Public elementary-secondary school systems spent a total of $776.4 billion in fiscal year 2020, up 3.2 percent from $752.3 billion in fiscal year 2019.

■ Of the total expenditure for elementary and secondary education, current spending accounted for $667.9 billion (86.0 percent) and capital outlay for $84.0 billion (10.8 percent) in fiscal year 2020.

■ Elementary and secondary education revenue from all sources in FY 2020 totaled $771.1 billion, up 2.6 percent from $751.7 billion the previous year.

■ State governments contributed the greatest share – $362.4 billion or 47.0 percent – of public school system funding in fiscal year 2020.

■ Public school systems in Alaska (14.6 percent), New Mexico (13.9 percent), South Dakota (13.9 percent), Mississippi (13.3 percent), and Montana (12.4 percent) received the highest percentage of their revenues from the federal government, while public school systems in New Jersey (3.7 percent), Connecticut (3.9 percent), New York (4.3 percent), Massachusetts (4.5 percent), and New Hampshire (4.7 percent) received the lowest.

Education finance data include revenues, expenditures, debt and assets (cash and security holdings). Statistics are not adjusted for cost-of-living differences between geographic areas..

MIDWEST Illinois North Dakota Ohio Minnesota Michigan Nebraska Wisconsin Kansas Iowa Missouri Indiana South Dakota

$17,293 $14,242 $13,805 $13,603 $13,072 $12,939 $12,740 $12,697 $11,958 $11,239 $10,935 $10,208

Average per pupil current spending:

NORTHEAST

$13,535 $25,519 $21,346 $20,838 $20,670 $18,733 $17,900 $17,142 $16,857 $14,892

New York Connecticut Vermont New Jersey Massachusetts New Hampshire Pennsylvania Rhode Island Maine Average per pupil current spending:

$21,123

WEST Alaska Wyoming Hawaii Washington California Oregon Montana Colorado New Mexico Nevada Arizona Utah Idaho

$18,313 $16,698 $16,564 $14,556 $14,031 $12,855 $12,101 $11,602 $11,332 $9,814 $8,785 $8,366 $8,272

Average per pupil current spending:

SOUTH

Dist. Columbia Delaware Maryland Virginia West Virginia Louisiana Georgia South Carolina Kentucky Arkansas Texas Alabama North Carolina Florida Tennessee Mississippi Oklahoma

$12,802

$22,856 $17,235 $15,489 $12,905 $12,375 $11,843 $11,707 $11,532 $11,397 $10,345 $10,342 $10,116 $9,958 $9,937 $9,896 $9,653 $9,508

Average per pupil current spending:

$10,954

Note: Data include public pre-K through 12th grade systems.

Source: 2020 Annual Survey of School System Finances, www.census.gov/programs-surveys/school-finances.html

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2022

GUEST COLUMNIST

BRIDGET FRENCH Rockford Public Schools

Job shadows guide many students to their career choice

“The job shadow gave me more insight and true hands-on experience. I now have a better understanding of the options out there.”

“It definitely helped me learn more about the career, and helped narrow down my choices on future careers.”

“It would be really nice to have more places to job shadow. It definitely helped me learn more about the career and helped narrow down my choices on future careers.”

These are a few of my favorite comments from Rockford Public Schools juniors participating in job shadow experiences last school year.

Real-world workplace contact is a critical part of students’ high school academies experience.

All RPS 205 students are in a College & Career Academy: Business, Health, Production or Service. They select their academy after attending the Academy Expo their freshman year — a career demonstration where students can engage with more than 100 local business partners.

Sophomore year, students participate in a half-hour or hour-long site visit for a business tour and overview that connects to their academy. Each academy includes a sequence of three courses with curriculum that mirrors industry, embeds soft skills and includes hands-on learning.

However, as much as we do in the classroom, the rubber meets the road when students get into the workplace.

That happens during junior year — and it’s also when we see the biggest impact for students.

Students spend around four hours with a small group of peers (no more than five or six) and follow a “you do, we do, I do” model. You (the employer) show the student what to do. Then the employer and student do the work together. Then the student does it on their own. While the site visit gives students a sense of what a workplace feels like, a job shadow gives students a feel for what it’s really like to do the work.

Half of the juniors who participated in job shadows last year said the experience confirmed their career choice. Others said they either changed their mind, or

Your help will allow the program to expand across the high schools they’re still not sure what they want to do. Almost all students — 98 percent — said they found the experience valuable.

While we do not expect students to know what they want to do for the rest of their lives at 16 or 17 years old, we know it’s just as important to rule things out and know what students do not want to do.

How many of us changed our majors in college?

Academies are for all students. We know many students who go directly to work or into an apprenticeship, training program or the military after high school. Several RPS 205 students landed pre-apprenticeships with building trades, internships with manufacturing companies, or summer jobs as a result of participating in job shadows. We want to continue building on existing relationships and foster new ones to benefit all students.

Last year approximately 500 students participated in job shadows, but the district has about 1,700 juniors across our five high schools. This year, we need your help to expand our reach.

If you already participate, thank you! We cannot do what we do without you. If you’re willing to host students or volunteer in any capacity, please let us know. Bridget French is the executive director of college & career readiness for Rockford Public Schools.

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

If you’re interested in learning more, please contact our Work-Based Learning Coordinator, Jessica Hayes: jessica.hayes@rps205.com. Your participation brings the work we do in the classroom to life.

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Gov. Pritzker signs legislation to expand access to higher education Bills aimed at increasing education equity across Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed legislation on June 7 designed to increase access to Illinois’ higher education system, close equity gaps and improve student protections and operational effectiveness.

The State Treasurer’s office will be tasked with reporting the rate of seed deposits claimed and certain demographic information of beneficiaries and of children in financially insecure households.

Benefits Navigators Help Students Apply for Financial Aid

Equity Plans for Key Student Groups

House Bill 4201 helps students at state universities and community colleges access benefits through “benefits navigators.” Each institution will assign a benefits navigator to guide students to seek and apply for any federal, state or local program that provides assistance or benefits for which they are eligible. It goes into effect Jan. 1, 2023.

Benefits navigators will participate in a consortium to share and develop best practices as they help students obtain needed benefits and assistance to reach their educational goals. The public university consortium will be overseen by the Illinois Board of Higher Education, and the Illinois Community College Board will oversee the community college consortium.

Money for Education to Students in Financially Insecure Households Senate Bill 3991 amends the Illinois Higher Education Savings Program, also known as the Children’s Savings Program, established to start each baby born or adopted in Illinois (on or after Jan. 1, 2023) with a $50 college savings deposit in the Treasurer’s 529 fund. The legislation allows the state treasurer to increase the deposit amount for children in financially insecure households if funds are available. It goes into effect Jan. 1, 2023.

House Bill 5464 requires state public universities and community colleges to develop and implement equity plans and practices to increase the access, retention, completion and student loan repayment rates for minority students, rural students, adult students, women and people with disabilities who are traditionally underrepresented in education programs and activities. The Illinois Board of Higher Education, in collaboration with the Illinois Community College Board, will guide implementation of the new equity plans. The bill also allows IBHE to request financial reports from private universities, private business and vocational schools, if needed, to help institutions stay on solid financial footing. It’s effective immediately.

Higher Education Omnibus Bill In addition to requiring state public universities and community colleges to develop and implement equity plans, HB 5464 also requires all public and private postsecondary institutions to report student data to ensure IBHE has a complete picture of the state’s college students and ensure progress is made toward achieving educational equity.

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2022

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 DEVELOPMENT CENTER

MICHAEL ROGERS Rockford SBDC

Additive manufacturing and 3D printers for small business

Additive Manufacturing and 3D printers are fast becoming a required part of any agile manufacturer these days. So just what can this technology do for the small manufacturer?

3D Printing Technology 3D printing has come a long way since its roots in the mid to late 1980s, and the accessibility of this technology for the small manufacturer is a rather recent event.

Today there are a number of manufacturers of 3D printing systems and materials at all price levels for the manufacturer wanting to use this rather unique technology. We will focus only on the top three that are within the reach of small manufacturers: FDM, SLS and SLM. FDM (or fused deposition modeling) is perhaps the most inexpensive 3D printing system a business or manufacturer can get integrated into their business.

This technology takes a spool of plastic filament, melts it and deposits the melted material onto a printing surface in X, Y and Z coordinates. The model is printed one layer at a time and incredible detail and resolution are possible with materials such as ABS, PETG, TPU and even nylon.

FDM systems start under $300 and can go into thousands of dollars depending on features needed.

SLS (or selective laser sintering) is a technology that takes a powdered material and uses laser technology to fuse the power into a 3D model layerby-layer similar to how FDM technology works. The SLS category allows for more industrial applications and is in the middle cost category — tens of thousands of dollar price ranges to get into the game with this technology. SLS materials include nylon thermoplastics, mineral-filled or glass-filled powered

Accessibility to capabilities was once reserved for large manufacturers. materials, polypropylene and even thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

SLM (or selective laser melting) also includes DMLS and EBM technologies.

These technologies use a metalized powder and lasers to melt the metal into 3D metal parts. This category of nonplastic/polymeric systems offers a business exciting possibilities as you are essentially printing in metal. These systems can cost tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands to get these systems, but you are able to print high definition and functional parts without machining, tooling or other associated machining costs.

How Can Small Business Benefit from Additive Manufacturing?

The big three additive manufacturing technologies have some differences in cost and type of materials they work with, but all of them offer accessibility for a manufacturer to a wide selection of capabilities once only reserved for the big players in manufacturing. These technologies give a small business the ability to create custom machine fixturing, ISD-prevention devices

for manufacturers, safety devices for use on the shop floor, tooling, assembly aids and other types of manufacturing aids.

Manufacturers also have the ability to quickly prototype and visualize changes in design to drive parts consolidation, spin up quick iterative cycle changes and even complex/low run production parts.

Many large automotive manufacturers are currently embracing these technologies to manufacture the products they sell.

This Technology is Ready for Small Business For small business, this technology is “ready for primetime.” Additive manufacturing offers entrepreneurs another tool to get faster to market, lower costs to offer difficult or complex parts production, have the precision and complexity of conventional machining and reduction of many safety risks, tooling and maintenance costs associated with conventional manufacturing.

Michael Rogers is consultant in cyber security and new emerging technologies for the Rockford SBDC.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2022

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

SPECIAL SECTION The Future of Work

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States struggling the most in hiring For some employers after the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, the shoe is on the other foot. Many are struggling to hire enough workers; sometimes leading to delays in services and reduced business hours.

The labor force participation rate has experienced the slowest recovery of any recession since World War II. Some businesses aren’t even able to keep the employees they already have with Americans quitting their jobs at record rates in what’s been dubbed the “Great Resignation.”

WalletHub.com compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia based on the rate of job openings for both the latest month and the last 12 months to see where employers are struggling the most in hiring. Illinois ranked as having the eighth biggest hiring struggle in the country.

Expert Commentary Why do employers have difficulties in filling employment positions?

“Employers may have difficulty filling employment positions if: the job description

Gallup-Workhuman study bottom line:

Organizations can save more than $16 million with culture of recognition Eight in 10 senior leaders (81 percent) say recognition is not a major strategic priority for their organization, but a new research report published by Gallup and Workhuman, “Unleashing the Human Element at Work: Transforming Workplaces Through Recognition,” shows that an organization of 10,000 people with an already engaged workforce can save up to $16.1 million in turnover annually when they make recognition an important part of their culture.

A culture of recognition, at its most basic level, is one in which gratitude, praise and appreciation are freely given and regularly received in an authentic and equitable way throughout the organization.

The survey was conducted this year, Feb. 14 to 28, with 7,636 U.S. adults employed full-time or part-time, 18 and older, as a part of the Gallup Panel™, which revealed that only about onethird of employees say their employer has a formal recognition program.

It also found that not all recognition is created equal.

More than half of employees who say the recognition they receive at work is not authentic (53 percent) or equitable (52 percent) are actively looking or watching for new employment opportunities. Two in five employees (40 percent) say they are not receiving enough recognition from leaders at their organization — only a few times a year at most — when the bare minimum for positive impact is at least a few times a month.

The findings show how recognition can drive real impact for a workforce, as those who receive the level of recognition that matches their needs and expectations are:

■ 56 percent less likely to be looking or watching for job opportunities.

■ Four times as likely to be engaged.

■ Three times as likely to feel loyal to their organization.

■ Four times as likely to strongly agree they would recommend their organization as a great place to work.

■ Four times as likely to feel that they belong at their organization.

■ Five times as likely to see a path to grow at their organization.

A culture of recognition, at its most basic level, is one in which gratitude, praise and appreciation are freely given and regularly received in an authentic and equitable way throughout the organization.

Developing Brand Ambassadors Recognition has an insulating effect that can help shield employees from burnout and support their overall wellbeing. More than 70 percent who have good recognition experiences at work rate their lives more positively overall and are more likely to be “thriving” in their everyday lives compared to those who are not being fully recognized.

Recognition is not a one-way street.

When organizations make a point of celebrating employees’ successes and contributions, those employees pay it forward and become brand ambassadors who help spread the word about their workplace.

In today’s competitive talent marketplace, the power of employee referrals cannot be understated. Yet, only 28 percent of employees in this study strongly agree they would recommend their organization as a great place to work. Organizations that acknowledge employees through strong cultures of recognition can boost this figure to 68 percent.

does not attract potential applicants because it overstates expectations regarding training or experience, or contains too many duties such that it appears to leave applicants with no time to breathe or move forward on a career growth path, or the promised salary and benefits are not comparable to others in the market or the employer has a bad reputation for how it treats its employees. Job applicants read information online. … Glassdoor is one of many sites that give employees information that may discourage them from applying. Employers need to consider housing and other living costs in the region where the job is located when they post salary ranges. Unavailability of work from home or a reputation for inflexibility regarding WFH might be another deterrent for some potential applicants.”

— Christine N. O’Brien, professor, Boston College

What are the main factors influencing the high turnover rates?

“My guess is that some of it [is] a reaction to pandemic-related factors. Some people discovered they could get by without a job or without as many jobs in their family as there used to be and are not eager to go back to work for low wages and/or potential health hazards (e.g., retail and other jobs with a lot of customer interaction are having a particularly hard time). The federal minimum wage has not gone up in a long time, with a result that the wages offered at similar jobs can sometimes vary a lot. This is particularly true given that few employers have matched raises with the inflation rate of the past year. So, you have things like school bus drivers being able to make more money working in a retail outlet.”

— Gordon Lafer, Ph.D, professor; co-director, Labor Education & Research Center, University of Oregon

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SPECIAL SECTION The Future of Work

August 2022

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

GUEST COLUMNIST

PAUL NOLLEY Project First Rate

Apprenticeships offer another path to a rewarding career

One key difference is that there are no tuition costs, and all apprentices will be employed by a contractor during their enrollment in the program.

I have written previously in this publication and others to help people understand the benefits and nature of registered apprenticeship programs.

For years, these post-secondary opportunities have been left behind in the typical conversations around careers and college that occur between educators, parents and students.

Despite this fact, I’ve noticed some recent progress in this area.

The topic comes up in an increasing number of national and regional news stories about employment and postsecondary education. However, in my everyday work, which includes traveling across a nine-county region to promote and educate students, teachers and community leaders about apprenticeships, I’ve discovered that many of the basic facts about registered apprenticeship programs are still misunderstood by students, parents and educators.

Following, readers will find a sampling of frequently asked questions and assumptions, joined with responses to help clarify and inform. This is not an exhaustive list, of course, but hopefully will serve as a strong starting point for anyone who may be interested in pursuing a career in the building trades or assist someone who may want to encourage a young person to consider a career in the industry.

Question: Aren’t apprenticeships for students who can’t make it into college or aren’t successful in traditional academic settings?

Answer: Apprenticeships require a high level of dedication and perseverance, much like four-year baccalaureate programs. Programs in the skilled trades have high expectations of their students and little tolerance for behavior issues, such as tardiness and immaturity. While you may be able to slip into a lecture hall late on a college campus, showing up late to a job site or apprenticeship classroom will be met with consequences and can even be cause for dismissal. So, while these careers can certainly be great options for students who may thrive in a setting different from the traditional classroom, the standards and accountability levels are high and taken seriously. Plus, many trades require solid proficiency in topics like algebra and geometry.

Question: What’s the first step to starting an apprenticeship, and how

long will I be in the program?

Answer: The first step for any prospective apprentice is to identify the trades they could see themselves doing for a long career. I always suggest at least applying to three apprenticeship programs, knowing that many don’t get in with their first application. From there, you should identify application requirements and dates and then apply directly to the program. Most apprenticeships last five or four years, but don’t forget, you will be earning money while you are enrolled and most first-year apprentices in our region start at about $20 per hour plus benefits.

Question: What are some basic differences and similarities between registered apprenticeships and fouryear university programs?

Answer: One key difference is that there are no tuition costs, and all apprentices will be employed by a contractor during their enrollment in the program. This means they can earn a living while receiving an education.

Additionally, you will spend time in a classroom where you will learn the fundamentals and technical details of your trade – but you will also regularly put this theory into practice out in the field alongside your peers.

A similarity between university and apprenticeship is that each trade’s program is highly structured and designed by credentialed professionals with thousands of hours of education and training required before graduation.

Plus, research shows that registered apprenticeship programs in the union trades produce socioeconomic outcomes on par or even better than four-year university programs.

Project First Rate provides resources to help individuals understand opportunities in the industry. Start at the career resource website, www.

FindYourTrade.org, or call 815-9046833.

Paul Nolley is executive director of Project First Rate.

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

Survey released on the workplace reimagined

Collaborative technology, genuine caring by managers, transparency have improved The Conference Board, a memberdriven think tank since 1916 of more than 1,200 companies, conducted four online surveys of human capital leaders to understand how organizations are continuing to react to the pandemic.

Its recently released its report, “The Reimagined Workplace Two Years Later, Human Capital Responses to the COVID-19 Pandemic,” available at www.conference-board.org, shares findings on remote work, returning to the workplace, recruitment, retention, employee well-being and organizational culture. The fourth online survey was done in March 2022 with 179 executives, mostly from multinational companies headquartered in the United States.

Insights for What’s Ahead Hybrid work is here to stay and will be one of the most significant organizational legacies of COVID-19.

For more than two years, The Conference Board has predicted that a lasting repercussion of the pandemic will be remote work. It’s not that remote work is new, but its usage will become widespread and endemic. Its prevalence means a fundamental shift in the way work is done by whom, where and when, which leads to adjusted practices as well as shifts in employee-employer relationships.

With perceived productivity remaining high, 90 percent of organizations are now allowing hybrid work (part remote, part in the office) and two thirds are allowing flexible work hours. The shift to hybrid work is becoming very real as more and more employees and job applicants are demanding it. This work preference is important for several reasons, including its impacts on productivity and organizational culture. In this survey series, we found that self-reported productivity has remained high in the last 18 months, and the big question is whether the work flexibility that has led to higher productivity can be sustained as organizations shift policies to adjust how work is structured. The long-term impact of hybrid work on organizational culture remains to be seen.

Recruitment and retention of qualified workers have become even more challenging in the last 12 months. Compared to our survey

findings a year ago, the impact of labor shortages has made it much more difficult for organizations to both find and retain professional and office workers. In fact, reversing last year’s finding, in 2022, our survey shows that it is now more difficult to find professional and office workers than industry and manual services workers.

However, it is still more difficult to retain industry and manual services workers.

With pressure to maintain increased productivity amidst higher levels of voluntary turnover, we expect the difficulty of recruiting new employees is adding stress to talent acquisition processes and increased pressure on talent management to retain existing workers.

Employee well-being has continued to deteriorate. Since September 2020, surveyed healthcare leaders have been reporting that the number of employees seeking support for mental health, the number of employees identifying as burned-out, the number of hours worked and usage of the Employee Assistance Plan all increased since the start of the pandemic, while levels of employee engagement/morale and the number of vacation days used both decreased.

The number of employees identified as being burned out almost doubled in 18 months (from 42 percent in September 2020 to 77 percent in March 2022).

With more hybrid work predicted, in order to improve well-being, we suggest organizations help employees find ways to create boundaries that both bridge and separate personal and professional responsibilities.

Most surveyed HR leaders think elements of their organizational cultures have changed for the better since the outbreak of the pandemic. Asked about 11 elements of organizational culture, participants from more 70 percent of the surveyed organizations said that collaborative technology, genuine caring by managers, transparent communication by leaders, and commitment to corporate social responsibility have changed for the better. However, the level of trust between leaders and employees has changed for the worse at 25 percent of organizations, perhaps indicating that deteriorating employee well-being has taken a toll.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2022

 Destination

GUEST COLUMNIST

ILLINOIS, USA

ADDING WEALTH TO THE REGION’S ECONOMY BY GROWING TOURISM

JOHN GROH Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Inspired to swing for the fences Rockford’s strong heritage of accomplished women

If you know Rockford, you know our beloved Peaches — an amazing crew of female athletes who played professional baseball while male baseball players were defending our country during World War II. The Rockford Peaches competed in the AllAmerican Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL), overcoming obstacles to do what they loved — play baseball.

Their story of swinging for the fences and breaking down barriers is captured in the 1992 movie A League of Their Own, which is back this summer as Prime Video launches an original streaming series by the same name on Aug. 12.

For 30 years, Rockford has enjoyed broad notoriety from A League of Their Own, the top grossing baseball movie of all time. And, with the reboot, once again, Rockford will be in the spotlight as the hometown of the Peaches.

The new series examines the triumphs and trials of the women who played and those who wanted to. Unlike the movie, the Prime Video series widens the lens on the Peaches’ real-life experience with a focus on race and sexuality, featuring Black and queer women throughout the storylines.

While the story of the Rockford Peaches is rooted in sports and baseball, it is also the story of female empowerment and elevating women beyond sports.

Rockford has a strong heritage of accomplished women and today, a host of female- and minority-owned businesses call Rockford home.

Female Go-getters Zina Horton bought family-owned business Zammuto’s in 2007. A man showed up and repeatedly told her that the restaurant’s granitas were all wrong. That man was Joe Zammuto, whose father had originally started the business. With coaching from Zammuto and support from him until his death, Zammuto’s experienced a revival as an authentic, homemade Rockford favorite.

SPoRT Makeup was born out of a desire to commemorate the Peaches’ 75th anniversary. Locally developed, the line began with a “Peach Diva” lipstick and blossomed into an entire array of

Rockford Peaches-inspired makeup. The company is owned by the Rockfordbased International Women’s Baseball Center.

After the death of Emily Hurd’s father, she realized life is short. She was spurred to start The Norwegian here in her hometown. It started with a crumbling building unknowingly laden with problems, but, with a communitybacked Kickstarter campaign and the drive to save a historical building, a warm, eclectic restaurant now reflects Rockford’s Scandinavian roots and contemporary spirit.

Janene’s Event Design Studio & Social Café opened in March 2020 as a special event supply company. The day after, businesses began to shut down due to COVID-19. So, entrepreneur Janene Stephenson had to pivot her business model. Now, her store front operates as a showroom for other entrepreneurs.

This go-getter also led the effort for local initiative “Buy Black Weekend Pop Up Shop,” this past February.

And, of course, those are just a few of many.

As we look to the future, Think Big, Rockford’s only entrepreneurial support center to solely focus on businesses owned by women and minorities, helps startups launch, grow and thrive. The Think Big School of Business hosts workshops from local and nationally recognized business leaders, and recently approved funding from the city is further bolstering Think Big with building and program support.

Along with these businesses, many of our influential institutions are led by women, including Therese Thill, president of Rockford Area Economic Development Council, and Caitlin Pusateri, president of Rockford Chamber of Commerce. Both leaders are new in their roles, and we’re excited to be partnering with them to make the Rockford region better than ever.

Rockford’s legacy of female empowerment has roots in our beloved Rockford Peaches. Inspired by their resolve and determination, the new A League of Their Own is poised to empower a new generation of women and minorities to “swing for the fences.”

I’ll be cheering for them and hope you will, too.

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

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

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DR. ELISHA ROBINSON Integrated Healing Center, LLC

The benefits, types, and answers to your FAQs, on fasting

Weight loss! Weight loss! Weight loss!

Now that I have your undivided attention; the benefits of fasting are numerous, with weight loss being one of the most desirable. We also would be remiss if we didn’t mention the original intent of fasting — spiritual growth and answers to deeply sought out prayers.

I would absolutely love to delve into that particular topic a little further, as it is near and dear to my heart. I am no stranger to fasting, which has strengthened my own personal walk with God. However, we are going to briefly discuss physical fasting — abstaining from food and/or liquids in order to improve physical health and stamina.

I have witnessed, in my medical practice and personal life, significant results with this method. I mean complete reversal of disease processes. Did I write that? You mean one can reverse any disease process with fasting? Absolutely.

Many people like to water down the definition of fasting by confessing that they are fasting by simply giving up sweets, meats or, to put it bluntly, “bad foods.” However, in order to allow the body to perform its biological functions at maximum level, complete abstinence from food for periods of time is a must.

Quite a few questions are raised when this topic is brought up. We will try to briefly elucidate those answers here.

What Are the Types of Fasting?

Intermittent fasting. The definition I subscribe to is cycling between periods of fasting and non-fasting. However, the fasting period is less than 48 hours. Why 48 hours? This is the least time period in which the body really starts deep cleaning its vital organs. Intermittent fasting can have significant benefits. However, if you are trying to reverse disease processes, you will have to do this longer than a day or two. Try a few months.

Prolonged fasting. No food and or water for greater than 48 hours. This is when you really see results. It can be quite tough, but there must be a strong will to continue past the first few days where the cravings are the absolute strongest.

Water Fast. No food, only water.

Dry fast. No food or water internally or externally, including showers. This is the quickest way to detoxify the body, and you will achieve rapid results when it is done on a prolonged basis. However, the cleansing reactions are the most rigorous.

You will detox faster and, if you are really unhealthy, experience significant cleansing reactions. I personally have done a dry fast. I detoxed so quickly that I was having terrible cleansing reactions by the second day.

With extended periods of prolonged fasting (weeks) significant results are rewarded to those who don’t give up the fight too early. Stuff like reversal of cancers, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, return of libido are achievable. Yes ladies, you can even get into that fly dress you wore in high school. Let’s be clear, I would not articulate it if I had not seen it with my own eyes.

How long should one fast? Length will depend on desired results and underlying medical conditions. I believe that fasting should become a part of one’s normal everyday life. My recommendation is to fast for 24 hours at least one day a week. If you are new to fasting. Please don’t go from 10 to 100 overnight. Work your way up, have patience and enjoy the process.

What are cleansing reactions? The body is breaking down everything that doesn’t belong and dumping it into the bloodstream. If the elimination channels, which are your kidneys, liver and gut, aren’t getting rid of the toxins fast enough, you experience noxious side effects.

Don’t be dismayed; these reactions are signaling that the body is getting rid of years of toxic buildup and waste. Headaches, body aches, acne breakouts, loose frequent stools, constipation, fatigue, sluggishness or low libido are all symptoms. Luckily, these are temporary, nonetheless they are absolutely normal. Yes you read correctly — normal. When I am fasting and begin to have these reactions, I welcome them knowing that my body is getting rid of that waste that hinders my wellbeing.

How to minimize or avoid cleansing reactions? Before any fast, first and most importantly you absolutely must clean your bowels with a short detox program.

I also recommend a month or two of a whole food electric diet which is simply fruits and vegetables. I encourage patients to follow my 90/10 rule, 90 percent fruits and vegetables and 10 percent everything else. This eating plan is very beneficial as it is void of dairy, all meats and artificial carbohydrates.

Do I need a doctor to monitor me?

The short answer is no. However, if you have a serious medical condition, I would recommend talking it over with your health care practitioner before beginning.

Dr. Elisha Robinson, board certified general surgeon and natural health and holistic nutrition practitioner, is owner of Integrated Healing Center, LLC. The views expressed are those of Dr. Robinson and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2022

GREATER ROCKFORD GROWTH PARTNERSHIP

economic development C O U N C I L Meet Alex Keedi Jerry goes to SelectUSA In June Gerald (Jerry) Sagona went to Baltimore, Maryland, for the SelectUSA Summit. This is the highest-profile event in the United States dedicated to promoting foreign direct investment (FDI.) This year’s investment summit returned to its familiar in-person format, providing opportunities for more investors from more markets and greater representation from economic developers (EDO) across the nation to engage and interact.

Jerry was part of the Illinois contingent working to attract investment from one of the 80+ markets represented at the event. There are currently 1,900* foreign companies located in Illinois, representing more than $100B* in investments, employing more than 3,811,000** people.

“The opportunity to work with the State of Illinois representing our region was a great chance to connect with companies actively evaluating locations in the U.S. for investment,” said Gerald Sagona, VP of business development with RAEDC. “I now have more connections for our regional businesses to utilize as well as connections that could result in new business attraction projects.

“SelectUSA is one of the many shows and conferences we participate in to promote the Rockford Region as for the expansion or relocation of their business.”

Alex Keedi joins RAEDC’s team as the business development manager. His focus is connecting with regional businesses and conducting business retention visits.

In addition to this responsibility, Keedi will also stay apprised of governmental business support and incentive programs, identify business growth projects and help identify economic assistance and financial resources for business expansions and relocations.

“Existing businesses drive more than 80 percent of all job creation and capital investment,” Keedi said. “These candid conversations with primary businesses focus on trends in their specific industry, providing resources that can help them

grow and create connections with other businesses.

RAEDC uses these opportunities to learn about pinchpoints, keep up to date with real world experiences and help keep our local economy healthy.”

Keedi will be working with Gerald (Jerry) Sagona, VP of business development, to conduct 150 of these business retention visits in 2022.

If your company is interested in a business retention visit, contact AKeedi@RockfordIL.com or GSagona@ RockfordIL.com.

*Based on figures from IntersectIllinois.com **Based on figures from Bureau of Economic Analysis – BEA.gov

Why economic development matters to a community Cultivating opportunities for primary job growth A great quality of life, diverse industries with good paying jobs, a fortified economy that helps insulate downturns and the ability to retain businesses helps a community become stronger and this becomes cyclical and ideally snowballs into prosperity for all.

Economic development includes programs, policies and activities that seek to improve the economic well-being and quality of life for a community by creating and retaining jobs and providing a stable tax base. Ultimately, economic development is a revenue strategy for a community, generating additional tax dollars from new business investment.

The practice of economic development is a collaborative effort involving industry, government and multiple community stakeholders.

“I believe that RAEDC’s economic development work must be collaborative, accountable and transparent. Economic development is a team sport that requires cooperation with municipal, industry and education partners,” said Therese Thill, president of the RAEDC. “This partnership, built on trust, allows us to face challenges and identify opportunities together.”

Economic development programs work to: ■ Bring new businesses in and promote the community as a location for economic activity.

■ Help existing local businesses solve

problems that would cause them to fail, close or move away.

■ Help local businesses grow and expand sustainably.

■ Create connections between businesses within the community and between companies working to infiltrate into a community.

■ Attract international opportunities, including attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) into the community or working with businesses in exporting to overseas markets.

■ Work with partners to prepare residents for available careers, connect businesses to skilled workers and build the pipeline of future workers in the community.

■ Help entrepreneurs and new firms start up and access the resources they need to succeed.

■ Improve a community’s quality of life.

A vibrant economy is the result of deliberate choices and actions. All communities need an organization that wakes up every day charged with improving the health and well-being of the local economy. That’s what economic developers and economic development organizations do.

The daily work of economic development is critical to the wellbeing of our community by cultivating opportunities for primary job growth.

We are here!

The Rockford Area Economic Development Council (RAEDC) is in our new space at 308 W. State St., Suite 350, Rockford as of July 8, 2022. We are sharing space with the Rockford Chamber of Commerce under the GRGP umbrella organization; allowing both organizations make the best use of resources.

Update your records with the following information for RAEDC. Rockford Area Economic Development Council 308 W. State St., Rockford, IL 61101 Information@RockfordIL.com | 815-987-8118 | RockfordIL.com

CONNECT WITH US

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

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2022

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on digital

MEMBER PICS

Ceremonial ribbon donated by ServPro of Rockford

Get-rich-quick scheme using “deepfake” technology Use caution when responding to video, audio appeals BioLife Plasma hosts a ribbon cutting on June 30 for the opening of its seventh center in Illinois at 5824 E. State St., Rockford.

Ingersoll Machine Tools grand opening of their new manufacturing facilities which adds capacity and technology, July 21 at 707 Fulton Avenue, Rockford.

Alden Debes Short-Term Rehabilitation and Health Care hosts a ribbon cutting on July 21 at 550 S. Mulford Road, Rockford.

aMBaSSaDOR SPOTLIGHT Matt Gugliciello The Ambassadors thank Matt Gugliciello with Forest Plaza for his years of service and wish him the best of luck with his move out of town to join a new company.

The Rockford Chamber Ambassadors met on July 14 at Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1545 Rockton Road, Caledonia.

New technology makes it nearly impossible to tell fake video or audio clips from real ones. The Deepfake technology creates fake videos and photos and can even edit verbal messages. As the software used to create these “deepfakes” becomes more widespread, scammers will use it to their advantage to steal money and sensitive information.

Fake ads and endorsements are common on the Internet, but now scammers with the proper technology can create an altered message making a video endorsement look real.

“Seeing is no longer believing when it comes to what you may be viewing or hearing on the internet,” said Dennis Horton, director of the Rockford Regional Office of the Better Business Bureau. “For impostor scams, the old rule was never to believe an endorsement unless you see the celebrity’s lips moving. Now that’s no longer a certainty, and consumers should elevate their awareness to be skeptical of this type of high-tech scam. As the technology improves and becomes easier to use, we’ll likely see scammers using deepfakes to target individuals and small businesses, too.”

What is a deepfake?

Deepfake technology takes video clips and photos of a person and uses the imagery to create new videos and audio clips. Deepfakes use artificial intelligence to create a seemingly real video or audio clip that mimics a person’s face, voice or both. This synthetic content is often used to spread misinformation by impersonating politicians and celebrities on social media.

For example, you come across a video of Elon Musk while scrolling through social media. Or perhaps a trusted friend sent you the video. Elon Musk talks about ways to invest in cryptocurrency and how you can make a large amount of money in no time. This sounds like a get-rich-quick scheme, but the video looks so real! Musk is a famous business leader, so his advice must be credible, right?

Think again! The video is fake.

Scammers used deepfake technology to create it from existing footage of Musk.

BBB tips to protect yourself from deepfake scams Know that celebrities are often impersonated. Politicians, actors, business

leaders and other celebrities are often “recreated” in deepfakes, as plenty of public video clips and photos of them are available. Verify a celebrity video from an official source.

Take a closer look at that video. Poorquality deepfakes are easy to identify. Look for isolated blurry spots in the video, double edges to the face, changes in video quality during the video, unnatural blinking or no blinking, and changes in the background or lighting.

Listen closely to the audio. Fake audio might include choppy sentences, unnatural or out-of-place inflection, odd phrasing or background sounds that don’t match the speaker’s location.

Be careful what you post online. The only way a scammer can make a deepfake video of you is if they have access to a selection of photos and videos featuring your face. Use caution when posting things publicly.

Don’t believe everything you see online. Scammers count on you to take them at their word without verifying their identity. Be skeptical when a person or company contacts you if you can’t validate who they really are. Never make financial decisions based on viral videos on social media. Before investing in something or donating to a charity, do research to ensure you do so through a legitimate channel.

Make sure you know who you are talking to. As deepfake technology progresses, you’ll need to confirm the identity of who you are speaking with — even if you think you know and trust them. You might not send money to a stranger who calls you out of the blue, but if scammers start using deepfakes to impersonate your loved ones, falling victim could be easier. Pay attention if a friend or family member makes an out-of-character request and be sure to confirm their identity before sending money or giving up sensitive personal information.

Don’t “act immediately.” Most scams involve an element of urgency. Claims that you can get rich quickly, but only if you act now, are a red flag. Never give in to pressure to invest, wire funds, or give up your personal information to receive a gift, money or an investment opportunity.

If you spot a deepfake scam on social media or anywhere else, file a report on BBB.org/ScamTracker.

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2022

in the news

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

Rockford Chamber members appear bolded.

Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members.

1. Derrick Johnston

2. Ron Beck

3. Brandon LeFevre

4. Madelyn Seuser

5. Dr. Kari Rockwell

6. Isabella Ibarra

7. Ryan Adleman

8. Hunter Kurpeski

9. Stephanie Calato

10. Annie Baddoo

11. Kelly Lafferty

12. Dr. Vijaya Somaraju

13. Dr. Rhonda Verzal

14. Randal V. Childs

15. Rachelle Downing

16. Mary Ann Laudicina

NEW HIRES, PROMOTIONS, RETIREMENTS Stillman Bank welcomed Derrick Johnston (1) as vice president/chief credit officer and director of ag lending.

Fehr Graham promoted Tony Guajardo to staff hydrogeologist and Ron Beck (2) to associate engineering technician and hired Brandon LeFevre (3) as an engineering technician and Madelyn Seuser (4) as a hydrogeologist.

Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois appointed Dr. Kari Rockwell (5) as CEO, succeeding current CEO Fiona Cummings.

Community Foundation of Northern Illinois hired Isabella Ibarra (6) as finance associate.

Blackhawk Bank promoted Ryan Adleman (7) to vice president senior treasury management officer and Hunter Kurpeski (8) to assistant vice president, small business banking.

Dory Retherford, Per Mar Security Services monitoring center manager, retired and Brad Dietz was promoted to senior manager of customer support.

Stephanie Calato (9), M.S., was

17. JT Current

21. Geneva Porter

18. Joe Kreul

22. Amanda Flores

named assistant dean for student affairs at the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford.

Keith Country Day School named Annie Baddoo (10) as co-head of school, focusing on its Lower School.

University of Illinois Extension welcomed Kelly Lafferty (11), new 4-H Youth Development Educator serving Jo Daviess, Stephenson and Winnebago counties.

OSF HealthCare hired Vijaya Somaraju (12), M.D., at the OSF Medical Group – Infectious Disease office in Rockford.

Rhonda Verzal (13), M.D., FAAFP, assistant professor of clinical family medicine, is program director for the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford Family Medicine Residency Program.

Rockford University hired Randal V. Childs (14) as vice president for advancement starting on Aug. 15.

Wayne A. Miller III joined the Weichert, Realtors® - Tovar Properties as an agent at the Loves Park office.

Rockford Mutual Insurance Company hired Rachelle Downing (15) as a business analyst.

Mary Ann Laudicina (16), assistant vice president and financial advisor,

19. Allison Williams

23. Dr. Anthony Molinari

20. Angela Pagelow

24. Dr. Rachel J. Miller

formed and joined The Laudicina Preston Group at Baird.

First National Bank and Trust hired JT Current (17) as senior vice president (SVP) director of loan production and operations.

Joe Kreul (18), LCPC, LHA, was promoted to vice president of child and adolescent service for Rosecrance, Inc. Allison Williams (19) joined the Region 1 Planning Council as environmental planner and Angela Pagelow (20) joined as an internal services associate.

Forest City Gear celebrated the retirement of Roger Surdynski, CTO process engineer.

Crusader Community Health promoted Geneva Porter (21), BSN, and Amanda Flores (22), BSN, to directors of clinical operations.

Dr. Anthony Molinari (23), primary care, OSF Medical Group – Belvidere, announced his retirement after 44 years.

EMPLOYEE/COMMUNITY RECOGNITIONS, AWARDS Rachel J. Miller (24), M.D., a 2022 graduate of the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, was chosen by peers and faculty for the Gold Humanism Award, received the David Mortimer Olkon Memorial Award for Outstanding Work in neurology, neurosurgery or psychiatry clerkships and completed the James Scholar Research Honors Program.

Mercyhealth announced the doctors who graduated from its Family Medicine Residency Program: Mahita Bellamkonda,

25. Samantha Wenk

26. Justin Francis

M.D.; Nandini Chattopadhyay, M.D.; Gilda Djabarzade, M.D.; Anurag Gill, M.D.; Amit Johal, M.D.; Huma Khan, M.D.; Monica Manhas, M.D.; Shahid Mohammad, D.O.; Sona Najafi, M.D.; Vinita Patel, M.D.; Sarah Robertson, M.D., and Dipti Sabharwal, D.O. The doctors who graduated from the Internal Medicine Residency Program: Shawn Banash, M.D.; Janine Borja, M.D.; Joyce Cheng, M.D., MPH, MHA; Rebekah Collins-Cronkright, M.D.; Kamalpreet Dhaliwal, M.D.; Sirisha Ganji, M.D.; Taha Mohamed Djirdeh, M.D.; Dilem Polat, M.D., MPH; Nagesan Rajendran, M.D.; Lintu Ramachandran, M.D.; Yadwinder Sidhu, M.D.; Harsimran Singh, M.D., and Skirmante Sirvaitis, M.D. Savant Wealth Management announced that Molly Wallace, client services representative and office administrator, Plymouth, Michigan, and Samantha Wenk (25), client services representative, Rockford, received the Financial Paraplanner Qualified Professional™ designation. Ashley Gorman, financial advisor, Santa Fe, New Mexico, earned the Certified Public Accountant certification. Jonathan Panzica, private client group planner, Peoria, Illinois and Lillie Perry, associate advisor, Middleton, Wisconsin, earned the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification.

Cathy Burhenn, personal lines underwriter, celebrated 30 years with Rockford Mutual Insurance Company.

Rockford Housing Authority gave Terry Milton its May Director’s Spotlight Award. Carandus Brown, human service manager, was named the Peer to Peer winner.

Justin Francis (26), relocation specialist, Rockford Housing Authority, was featured in Northwest Quarterly magazine in an article titled “The 25 most interesting people.”

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2022

business

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Rosecrance served more than 54,000 individuals during the 2022 fiscal year, a 22 percent jump in three years.

KMK Media Group, Inc., worked with Rochelle Community Hospital on a series of videos introducing the hospital’s healthcare workers to the community, and completed the Paw Print video series on Keith Country Day School’s focus, expectations and relationships with families, students and teachers. Architectural Building Solutions, St. Charles, Illinois, hired KMK to create its website and manage its social media and email marketing.

Rock House Kids received a $5,616 grant from The Mill Foundation for privacy and safety repairs on its playground fence, a $5,000 grant from J.L. Clark Legacy Foundation to help improves safety measures, and a $22,500 grant from United Way of Rock River Valley and a $14,500 grant from Northern Illinois Food Bank to help battle food insecurity. It received a $10,000 donation from the local Owens Corning insulation plant when employees directed their $10,000 Healthy Living Award to the organization.

Mercyhealth Javon Bea Hospital– Riverside received three American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines and Mission: Lifeline achievement awards for up-to-date, research-based guidelines for treatment of heart disease and stroke, with more lives saved, shorter recovery times and fewer hospital readmissions.

Four teams from the Rockford Park District’s NFL FLAG Football program headed to Green Bay, Wisconsin on June 25 to compete in “Capture the Flag,” the 2022 Green Bay Regional Tournament at Lambeau Stadium.

Area students participated in a Teen Reach program at the YMCA of Rock River Valley in spring. Discovery Center Museum of Rockford was awarded $8,000 from The Mill Foundation towards its STEM on the Rock outreach program providing underrepresented middle school students with these handson enrichment programs twice a month.

Rockford Community Bank, a Wintrust Community Bank, gave Rockford Community Investment Fund a capital equivalent loan. The community development financial institution recently began operating in Rockford to finance the rehabilitation of vacant and dilapidated homes in the city’s low and moderate income neighborhoods.

Chartwell Agency created a video series for BioForward Wisconsin to tell its story and connect its members.

Rockford Park District hosts Saturday Fun on the Farm at Lockwood Park, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., through Oct. 29 at 5201 Safford Road. Activities include wagon rides

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Rockford Chamber members appear bolded.

Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members.

through the park’s scenic meadows and woods and free Children’s Farm Barn visits.

of ecosystems and mankind’s relationship with nature. Visit www. klehm.org/nature-connects.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded $220,126 to Rockford Housing Authority to protect low-income families in public housing properties from radon. Funds will mitigate 36 residential units throughout two developments already tested and shown to have actionable levels. The remaining 450 units will be tested to help guide future planning for mitigation.

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau received a $277,500 grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration, Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation Program, funded through the American Rescue Plan, towards the development of a Destination Master Plan.

Two Rosecrance treatment sites received Elite Care Center designations from the National Football League Hall of Fame Behavioral Health, Rosecrance Griffin Williamson Campus, Rockford, and Rosecrance Lakeview sober living facility, Chicago. Its network of providers can be accessed by individuals and families associated with the game of football.

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau and The Cherry Bowl announced that the Illinois High School Association committed to have the Girls Bowling State Finals take place in the Rockford region through 2027.

Delta Air Lines added new nonstop service from General Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee to John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. The flights will operate seven days per week and complement Delta’s existing nonstop service to LaGuardia.

Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects Made with LEGO® Bricks now is on display at Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., through Sept. 11. The works of art made from simple toy blocks explore animal endangerment, the balance

United Way of Rock River Valley awarded nearly $400,000 to 22 local nonprofit organizations still struggling to regain their footing post-COVID. For the second straight year, the Saint Anthony College of Nursing will not implement a tuition increase for the 2022-2023 academic year, as determined during its annual budget planning session.

Barbara Olson Center of Hope received a $22,500 grant from the United Way of Rock River Valley to fund programs, serve clients, restart programs and fill funding gaps that still exist post-COVID. theFranaGroup assisted its client, LifeSpringHealth Systems, Jeffersonville, Indiana, in receiving a $357,455 award by Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for its service as a navigator in the Federally-facilitated Marketplace.

The OSF HealthCare Illinois Neurological Institute has a new location at 698 Featherstone Road, Ste. 150, Rockford. Its neurology care team providers are Tariq Gheith, M.D.; Brandon Strawn, D.O.; Maureen Cain, APRN; Michelle Sandine, APRN, and Andrea Shewalter, APRN.

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2022

legislativeLEGISLATIVE ACTIONS $75 million for affordable housing includes Rockford, Cherry Valley Two local affordable housing developments will benefit from $75 million in COVID-19 Affordable Housing Grants announced by the Illinois Housing Development Authority. Zion Development will renovate the five-story Longwood Garden Apartments in downtown Rockford to create a new mix of 64 one- and two-bedroom apartments for seniors.

The project will include rehabilitation of the underground garage, elevators, common areas and mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems throughout the building.

Bear Development will construct 60 new units at Millbrook Townhomes east of CherryVale Mall. The project, serving residents earning 60 percent or less of the median income for Winnebago County, also will feature a community building and playground.

Nursing home patients gain rights under new law A new state law provides new protections for nursing home residents in Illinois by establishing patient rights and a grievance process and by prohibiting unpaid labor.

Senate Bill 1633 ensures that all rights outlined in the state’s Medical Patient Rights Act, including the right to sound medical care and the right to privacy and confidentiality, apply to residents under the Nursing Home Care Act. The new law also creates procedures at nursing facilities and requires information on how to submit complaints be posted publicly and made available to residents on request.

Actions from recent Rockford City Council meetings Approved, a new funding agreement with the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau to continue marketing Rockford as a tourism destination for people throughout the Midwest and the country.

Approved, a development agreement and lease with Think Big to create a small business incubator for minority and women owned businesses at 1311 N. Main St. Approved, a funding agreement for $134,080 for the AfricanAmerican Resource Center at Booker for capital improvements.

Approved, a funding agreement for $50,000 for the Northwest Rockford Neighbors, Inc., to establish youth programing to help with crime reduction and violence prevention.

Approved, a funding agreement for $50,000 for Community

Life Center to establish youth programing to help with crime reduction and violence prevention.

Approved, a seasonal liquor license for West Rock Wake Park.

Approved, renewal agreements for two Strong Houses in distressed neighborhoods.

The houses put programs into neighborhoods that provide educational opportunities and activities, reduce childhood poverty and build hope for neighborhood families.

Approved, a $50,000 REGROW Grant to Comprehensive Community Solutions — Alpha Project for youth programming to include mentoring, educational support, fitness, life skills and community engagement.

(REGROW grants are funded by the 3% local tax on cannabis sales.)

Approved, a $50,000 REGROW

Gov. Pritzker signs legislation to expand use of expressway cameras Governor JB Pritzker signed two pieces of legislation that allow for the expanded use of expressway cameras to help law enforcement agencies to investigate criminal activities along expressways and state highways.

House Bill 4481 increases the number of cameras along expressways and state highways in the counties of Boone, Bureau, Champaign, Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Grundy, Henry, Kane, Kendall, Lake, LaSalle, Macon, Madison, McHenry, Morgan, Peoria, Rock Island, Sangamon, St. Clair, Will and Winnebago. The state’s FY23 budget included $20 million to expand the technology. This legislation is effective immediately.

House Bill 260 allows for the use of expressway cameras along JeanBaptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive. This gives law enforcement agencies the ability to use images from expressway cameras to investigate vehicular hijacking and other criminal activities, detect highway conditions and facilitate highway safety and incident management services. This legislation is effective immediately.

The Illinois State Police (ISP), working with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the Chicago Department of Transportation, has installed more than 150 Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) on Chicago expressways, with plans to install approximately 150 more throughout the summer. These ALPRs cover the Dan Ryan Expressway (I-94), I-90, I-290, I-55 and I-57. In February of 2021, ISP received a $12.5 million grant to cover the costs of engineering, permitting and labor associated with the purchase and installation of readers, controllers, servers/software, electrical power and communications equipment required to install ALPR systems. In the first phase, ALPRs were installed on the Dan Ryan expressway during the summer and fall of 2021. The second phase was just completed for a total of 150 ALPRs on numerous expressways. For the final phase, ISP is currently installing 150 more ALPRs for a total of 300 under this initial grant.

In 2021, there was a total of 264 reported expressway shootings.

Earlier this month, Governor Pritzker signed laws reinvigorating the Violent Crime Witness Protection Act, combatting carjackings and vehicle theft launching a victim-centered co-responder pilot program to pair victims and witnesses with trauma-informed social workers. Last year, Illinois enacted the most comprehensive reform to our state firearms laws in over a generation, including universal background checks to keep guns out of the hands of those who shouldn’t have them.

Grant to New Genres Art Space and Fairground Boys and Girls Club for a Digital Fairground, an afterschool program utilizing computer graphic design to bring accessibility to creative technologies for youth.

Approved, an amendment to our 2020 Comprehensive Plan to include the Auburn Street Corridor Study, which will bring muchneeded construction work to this west side corridor.

Approved, additional gunshot detection and license plate reader cameras — doubling the amount currently in our community. The combination of gunshot detection and license plate reader cameras will help officers locate vehicles leaving the area of alerts.

Approved, the acceptance of an Illinois Department of Human Services Homeless Prevention grant for $487,000. Eligible clients will receive a direct vendor payment for their landlord, electric and/or heating bill.

Approved, the acceptance

of a $1.8 million grant from the Winnebago County Community Mental Health Board to continue funding the collaboration between the City of Rockford Police Department, Loves Park Police Department, Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office and Rosecrance.

The collaboration provides a specially trained team to respond to 911 calls involving a mental health or substance use crisis, as well as follow-up services.

Approved, the acceptance of a $2 million grant from the Winnebago County Community Mental Health Board to fund the Mobile Integrated Health — Mental Health Program established

by Rockford Fire. The program implements innovative dispatching technology, placing a nurse in the 911 Center and adding additional MIH-MHP teams to identify those in need of mental health crisis services.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2022

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS A NEW LOOK BY NISHA A personal styling business focusing on young women and career-focused women.

Anisha Grimmett 815-713-9056

BIRTH TO FIVE ILLINOIS

Statewide regional early childhood and education community support system.

Livia Bane 309-866-3102 www.birthtofiveil.com

COUNTRY FINANCIAL ANN DERRY 4087 N. Perryville Road Loves Park, IL 61114 Ann Derry 815-282-7544 www.countryfinancial.com/ ann.derry

COUNTRY FINANCIAL DAVE MACE 1487 N. State St. Belvidere, IL 61008 Dave Mace 815-547-3912 www.countryfinancial.com/ dave.mace

GET CONNECTED

Re-entry career development, construction training, transportation, energy alternative training, employment, non-profit start up training.

815 N. Church St., Ste. 101, 61103 Tretara Flowers 779-513-2565 www.getconnected815.org

GIFT OF HOPE ORGAN & TISSUE DONOR NETWORK

Not-for-profit organ procurement organization that coordinates organ and tissue donation and provides public education on donation in Illinois and northwest Indiana.

425 Spring Lake Dr. Itasca, IL 60143 Luis Ortega 630-470-3293 www.giftofhope.org

HAMBLOCK FORD LINCOLN

New/used auto sales, parts, service.

1800 N. State St. Belvidere, IL 61008 Joe Hamblock 815-544-2138 www.hamblockford.com

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

iBRAND VISUAL

Sign company that does everything in house, exterior, interior, architectural, digital, custom.

1359 Yorkshire Dr. Streamwood, IL 60107 Rick Avery 630-442-1800 www.ibrandvisual.com

INTEGRATIVE HEALING CENTER, LLC

We understand the importance of treating the whole patient, identifying the cause of disease, treating the patient as well as eliminating the root cause.

4775 Manhattan Dr., 61108 Elisha Robinson, M.D. 815-986-8205 www.integrativehealingdoc.com

ROCK RIVER FLY CASTERS CONSORTIUM

30-YEAR MEMBER

10-YEAR MEMBERS

Community Foundation of Northern Illinois

Prairie Street Brewing Co. Stateline Real Estate LLC/Stateline Rental Properties

15-YEAR MEMBERS Heritage Woods of Rockford Rockford Local Development Corporation Westminster Presbyterian Church

5-YEAR MEMBERS Easterseals Easterseals - The Autism Program Easterseals Teen and Family Support

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS Thank you to members who renewed with the Rockford Chamber of Commerce in June 2022 11th Street Express Printing, Inc. ABC Catering Ltd., A Better Choice Catering

Lucas Group Financial Advisors + CPAs M3 Insurance

Fly fishing and fly tying club, located in Rockford, Illinois.

P.O. Box 5952, 61125 Michael Martin 815-909-8698 www.rockriverflycasters.club

AT&T

Meg’s Daily Grind

Axberg, a Division of Black Diamond Plumbing & Mechanical, Inc.

Premier Technologies

SKYRISE APARTMENTS LLC

Cedarhurst of Rockford

Senior apartments – 55 and older.

837 N. Main St., 61103 Kelly Sumwalt 815-964-7307

THE HISTORIC RIVERFRONT MANSION

Beautifully renovated historic mansion listed with AirBnB. 2430 S. Main St., 61102 Ronald Schwartz 815-543-9388 www.airbnb.com/ rooms/48624479? source_ impression_id=p3_ 1656428880_ lZTQrAPFR% 2FZQc3W%2F

T-MOBILE FOR BUSINESS Wireless service products and solutions Itzel Gutierrez 630-931-5987 www.t-mobile.com/business/ solutions

TOMMY CORRAL MEMORIAL FOUNDATION Non-profit providing mental health and suicide prevention support and resources.

6627 N. Second St. Loves Park, IL 61111 Xavier Whitford 815-519-1430 www.tommycorralmemorial foundation.com

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Boys & Girls Club of Rockford C & H Design Center

R. J. Bowers Distributors, Inc. Radisson Hotel & Conference Center Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren P.C.

Chuck Brauer Trucking Inc.

Residence Inn by Marriott/ Rockford

Community Foundation of Northern Illinois

Ring Container Technologies

Corporate Services, Inc. Crimson Valley Landscaping Don Daniels Dry Otter Basement Water Proofing/Foundation Repair Employee Benefit Association of Northern Illinois Fairhaven Christian Retirement Center Fridh Corporation Grand Regency of Rockford Heinzeroth Marketing Group Heritage Woods of Rockford Historic Auto Attractions HR Capital Management Consultants

RJ Link International, Inc. Rock Cut Investment Group of RBC Wealth Management Rock Road Companies, Inc. Rockford Linear Actuation, Inc. Rockford Mutual Insurance Company Rockford Township Rocknel Fastener, Inc. Sam’s Club, A Division of Wal-Mart Stores Sinnissippi Apartments Inc. Spectrum Insurance Agency, Inc. Staff Management, Inc. Storming Crab Rockford IL LLC

Hughes Resources

Summit CPA Group, P.C.

Hulsebus Rockford Chiropractic

Sunbelt Rentals

Ingenium Aerospace LLC

Sunset Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens

J & M Plating, Inc. JC Precision Milling, LLC John Morrissey Accountants, Inc. JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. K&J Finishing, Inc. Kelce & Company Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden Laurent House Foundation, Inc. LawnCare by Walter, Inc.

The Brian Boyer Group State Farm The Broken Wings Club The Carriage Homes of Park Hills VI Todd Transit, Inc. United States Postal Service United Way of Rock River Valley Westminster Presbyterian Church

LDR Cleaning & Restoration, Inc.

Widmer Interiors

Lifescape Community Services/ Community Kitchen, Inc.

Zimmerman & Walsh, LLP

Winnebago Motor Homes

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

August 2022

community COMMUNITY EVENTS

AUGUST 2022

TUESDAY, AUGUST 2 Women of Today’s Manufacturing hosts its 2022 Annual Golf Outing, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Swanhills Golf Course, 2600 Gustafson Road, Belvidere. Register at wotmrockford. com/events.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4 Steely Dane - The Ultimate Steely Dan Tribute with jazz and rock musicians playing in the same configuration as the Steely Dan touring band, 7 to 8:30 p.m., at Rockford Park District’s Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 1401 N. 2nd St. A prime concert with a $5 charge. Visit www.rockford parkdistrict.org/ soundsofsummer.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5 Northern Illinois Hospice Foundation hosts its 34th annual Charity Golf Event at the Rockford Country Club, 2500 Oxford St. Putting green/driving range opens 10:30 a.m., box lunches at 11 a.m., shotgun start at noon, and cocktails, hearty hors d’oeuvres and music at 5 p.m. Visit northernillinoishospice.org/give/golf/ or 815-398-0500.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 6 NFL Hall of Famer Mike Ditka’s new national women’s full-contact tackle football league, the Extreme Football League, or X LEAGUE, debuts at BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford, with the Chicago Blitz facing off against the Seattle Thunder at 7 p.m. Tickets at Ticketmaster.com, box office or 815-968-5222.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 7 Wesley Willows hosts its 50th annual Fundraising Event for its Good Samaritan Fund, 11 a.m., at Rock Valley College’s Starlight Theater, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford.

Brunch with entertainment with Rockford Poet Laurette, Christine Swanberg and ¾ Time Sweet Adeline Quartet. Performance of Hello Dolly at 2 p.m. Call 815-316-1570 for tickets.

Rockford Park District hosts Golf Sunday Fun Days through Oct. 30, 3

p.m., at Sinnissippi Golf Course, 2004 Arlington Ave. Reserve tee time at golfrockford.org/sinnissippi-golfcourse. Walk-ups welcome, based on availability.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11 Rockford Community Investment Fund presents Smart Money Credit Reporting For a Small Business at noon with speaker Nathan A. Bevineau, Rockford Community Bank.

Contact Tom@RLDC.us for the Zoom registration information.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 12 The Beach Boys brings its Sixty Years of the Sounds of Summer tour to the Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, at 8 p.m.

Tickets at Ticketmaster.com, box office and 815-968-5222.

Rockford Cosmopolitan Charity Golf Classic, 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Country Club, 5151 Guilford Road, and Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road.

Includes lunch, dinner buffet, awards and raffles at Mauh-Nah-Tee-See. Register at www.rfdcosmo.org.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 13 Rockford Park District invites adults to sign up with children for a new Glow Golf at Aldeen Golf Club, 1902 Reid Farm Road, 9 to 10 p.m. Preregistration required by Aug. 9 at golfrockford.org/events or park district customer service locations.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 14 Heritage Museum Park presents Music at the Museum featuring Beth Ann ‘Red’ Beal, 1 to 4 p.m., in the gazebo at 1129 S. Main St., Rockford. Guided tours through the Ethnic Heritage Museum and Graham-Ginestra House, 2 to 4 p.m. Bring a lawn chair.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17 First National Bank and Trust hosts a free Coin Appraisal Event, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at 1795 Madison Road, Beloit.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 18

Rockford Chamber members appear bolded.

Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members.

Benefit Decisions, 9 to 10:30 a.m.

Register at the-alliance.org (Events).

SATURDAY, AUGUST 20 The 9th annual RAMP River Run with certified half marathon, 5K and 3K walk/wheel. Starts at the Rockford City Market pavilion, 116 N. Madison St., and goes along the shores of the Rock River. Register by Aug. 1 to be guaranteed an event t-shirt at www.815riverrun.com.

MONDAY, AUGUST 22 Judson University welcomes Actor Edward James Olmos as a part of its World Leaders Forum Inspirational Series, 7 p.m., at the Herrick Chapel, 1151 N. State St., Elgin, Illinois VIP tickets include a meet-and-greet reception at 5:30 p.m. Tickets at 2022wlf inspirationseries.eventbrite.com.

The Parks Chamber hosts its fourth-annual Golf Outing, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford. Register at www. parkschamber.com/all-events.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 24 Heritage Museum Park hosts the fundraiser, Heritage Whiskey Wednesday, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., at Barnstormer Distillery, 6969 S. Main St., Rockford. Features dinner by Texas Roadhouse, tour and tasting with Barnstormer Distillery, live music from Trinadora and auction items. For tickets call 815-962-7402 or www. ethnicheritagemuseum.org.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27 Winnebago County CASA hosts its first CASA Royale charity casino fundraising gala at Embassy Suites

by Hilton Rockford Riverfront, 416 S. Main St., Rockford. VIP cocktail hour, 6 to 7 p.m., with open bar and hors d’oeuvres. Casino, 7 to 10 p.m., with heavy appetizers, cash bar, live music, silent auction and raffle.

Tickets at winnebagocountycasa.org (Click News & Events).

SUNDAY, AUGUST 28

The Alliance presents a webinar, Better Healthcare Data for Better

Heritage Museum Park presents Music at the Museum featuring Hang

9.5 x 3.2

10 (Rock Surfers Trio Project), 1 to 4 p.m., in the gazebo at 1129 S. Main St., Rockford. Guided tours through the Ethnic Heritage Museum and Graham-Ginestra House, 2 to 4 p.m.

Bring a lawn chair.

MONDAY, AUGUST 29 Stateline Youth for Christ hosts its annual Golf Outing, 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Club, 5151 Guilford Road, Rockford. Register at www.statelineyfc.org/new-events.

SEPTEMBER 2022 TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 First National Bank and Trust hosts a free Shred Day with Paper Recovery Services Corp., 9 a.m. to noon, at 500 N. Elida St., Winnebago. Visit www. bankatfirstnational.com.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 Heritage Museum Park presents Music at the Museum featuring Jodi Beach Duo, 1 to 4 p.m., in the gazebo at 1129 S. Main St., Rockford. Guided tours through the Ethnic Heritage Museum and Graham-Ginestra House, 2 to 4 p.m. Bring a lawn chair.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 Judson University hosts its annual Homecoming and Family Weekend celebration, Sept. 22 to 24, at 1151 N. State St., Elgin. Visit www.judsonu. edu/homecoming and register at bit.ly/ JUHomecoming2022.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 Emmy-winning journalist, comedian, host and creator of the “Manitowoc Minute,” Charlie Berens, performs live as a part of his “Midwest Survival Guide” tour, 8 p.m., at the Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford. Tickets at Ticketmaster. com, the box office or 815-968-5222.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist Gordon Lightfoot performs, 7 p.m., at the Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford.

Tickets at Ticketmaster.com, the box office or 815-968-5222.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

CHaMBER

ADVERTISERS INDEX

CHAMBER EVENTS

AUGUST 2022 TUESDAY, AUGUST 9 Business Women’s Council, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford. Sponsored by Associated Bank.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 12 Government Affairs Council Meeting, 7:30 to 9 a.m., at Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St., Rockford. Sponsored by AT&T.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17 IGNITE After 5-PrairieView social event, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Byron Forest Preserve/PrairieView Golf Club, 7993 N. River Road, Byron.

The Women-in-Business Luncheon is included in the Pow(H)er registration but also available for those not able to attend all day. Sponsors: OSF HealthCare (Advocate); Northwest Bank (Community Hero Award); Thayer Energy Solutions (Woman Business Owner Award); Edward Jones, Erna E. Colborn (Excellence in Leadership Award); Humana (Advancement Track); RSM US LLP (Refreshment); Mindy Joy Photography (Event Photographer).

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25 IGNITE Meets a Non-Profit featuring Crusader Community Health, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Crusader Community Health-West State, 1200 W. State St., Rockford.

Donate diapers and wipes for the new moms and babies.

SEPTEMBER 2022 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 Government Affairs Council Meeting, 7:30 to 9 a.m., at Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St., Rockford. Sponsored by AT&T.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 Rockford Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner, 5 to 8 p.m., at Tebala Event Center, 7910 Newburg Road, Rockford. Keynote by Harris III on “Wonder: The Transformative Power of Wonder in Leadership.”

Food catered by Greenfire.

Sponsored by OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, Woodward, Associated Bank, Comcast Business and RSM US LLP.

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August 2022

WEDNESDAY, SETPEMBER 21

Blackhawk Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Priority Series: Conversation with Chairman Chiarelli. Winnebago County Board Chairman Joe Chiarelli 10 a.m. Livestream.

Furst Consulting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 IGNITE Meets a Non-Profit featuring Northwest Community Center, 5:30 to 7 p.m., 1325 N. Johnston Ave., Rockford. Allows IGNITE members to learn more about some of the non-profits in the area and to engage with them.

Members are able to work on personal development and volunteering through these events.

Contact Carmen at ckellerman@ rockfordchamber.com.

Goodwill of Northern Illinois . . . . . . . . . 8 Illinois Bank & Trust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC). . . . . . . . 12 LaLoggia Investment Group. . . . . . . . . 4 Mercyhealth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Northern Public Radio. . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14 Government Affairs Council Meeting, 7:30 to 9 a.m., at Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St., Rockford. Sponsored by AT&T.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19 Community Priority Series: Mayor’s Business Address, 10 a.m. Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara, in his sixth address to the business community since taking office, will look at the past year in Rockford, highlighting its successes, areas of continued growth in the future and what the business community can expect from the City of Rockford and its mayor in 2023 and beyond.

Sponsored by BMO Harris Bank, Comcast Business and Van Matre.

IGNITE After 5-Hidden Creek Estates, 13276 White School Road, Roscoe. Stop in any time between 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

NOVEMBER 2022 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3 Pow(H)er Conference, 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Hoffman House & Holiday Inn, 7550 E. State St., Rockford. A conference for all who support, believe in and champion the advancement of women. Choose workshops from four tracks: Balance, Advancement, Legacy and Ally.

For Up-to-date Event Information, visit rockfordchamber.com

Rockford University. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Stillman Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Thayer Energy Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . 7 University of Illinois Extension. . . . . . . . 8 University of Illinois College of Medicine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Upper Iowa University. . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

OSF HealthCare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

VOICE

OCTOBER 2022

Rockford Chamber of Commerce. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7, 19, 24

the

Chamber Staff / Call 815-987-8100............................................Direct Line Caitlin Pusateri, President.................................................................... 815-316-4337 Melissa Adams, Executive Assistant.................................................... 815-316-4312 Jeff Bailey, Membership Development Executive................................ 815-316-4336 Susan Contrady, Account Executive.................................................... 815-316-4317 Doug Hessong, Director of Publications & Technology....................... 815-316-4338 Carmen Kellerman, Events Manager . ................................................. 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 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 John Schuster JFS Services

LaVonne Brown Savant Wealth Management Samuel J. Castree Staff Management, Inc. Lesly Couper workplace Doug Curry Stenstrom Construction Group Rebecca Epperson Chartwell Agency Carol Friesen OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center Eric Fulcomer, Ph.D. Rockford University Ira Grimmett Collins Aerospace Tim Honquest Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory

Michael F. Iasparro Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP Carly LaMonica LaMonica Beverages, Inc. Kris L. Kieper Machajewski YWCA Northwestern Illinois Nicole Radford UW Health Northern Illinois Region Denise Sasse RSM US LLP Peter Schmeling Schmeling Construction Co. Brent Scott Rockford Community Bank, A Wintrust Community Bank Teresa Sharp American Precision Supply, Inc.

Karl Swanson Illinois Bank & Trust Christina Valdez CMM & Associates Dustin Vock Meiborg, Inc. Robert Young Midwest Packaging and Container

EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS Caitlin Pusateri President Rockford Chamber of Commerce John Groh Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Therese Thill Rockford Area Economic Development Council

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

SEPTEMBER VOICE SPECIAL SECTIONS Cyberspace: Digital Marketing, Security Issues Renewable Energy — Sustainable Communities For information on advertising, call 815 987-8100