September Voice 2013

The Voice is online at rockfordchamber.com

We are Rockford.

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

PACKAGING COORDINATORS

PAGE 22

PAGE 26

September 2013 | Volume 26 | No. 9

PREVENTING AREA FORECLOSURES WITH NEW HOME RESOURCE CENTER

Now What?

How business can help revitalize Rockford

By Paul Anthony Arco

One way to revitalize Rockford is for business leaders to take the lead, that’s according to one expert who has experience leading a similar effort in Chicago.

On Aug. 14, George Ranney, president and CEO of Metropolis Strategies, spoke to a crowd of 270 Rockford business leaders, during a Rockford Chamber of Commerce

PHOTOS BY BRIAN THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY

The audience listens intently as George Ranney, president and CEO of Metropolis Strategies, divulged the strategies his company produced to revitalize the Chicago region. luncheon at Giovanni’s. Ranney shared ways his organization works to keep the Chicago region economically competitive.

In 1996, The Commercial Club of Chicago undertook the Metropolis Project, an effort to help ensure the success of Chicago’s metropolitan region in the 21st century. The idea behind the Metropolis Project was that the issues facing the region -- Cook, DuPage, Lake, McHenry, Kane and Will counties -- are interdependent. The organization believed the issues were related to unlimited, low-density sprawl, concentration of poor minorities, the mismatch between jobs, affordable housing and transportation, and lack of access to quality education.

More than 200 members of The Commercial Club studied those issues in special committees centered on six areas: education, economic development, taxation, governance, transportation

and land use and housing. The committees consulted with experts and met with regional community, civic and government representatives.

The result of the two-year project was a report “Chicago Metropolis 2020: Preparing Metropolitan Chicago for the 21st Century.” The report was released in 1999, and published as a book the following year.

Applying Idea to Rockford Now Rockford officials are hoping Ranney’s message can reach local leaders.

“I’ve had a belief for many years that the way to solve problems like the ones they’re dealing with in Chicago and in Rockford is through a private initiative, where you get leaders who have completed their careers and want to get involved,” said Rich Walsh, more on page 4

Have you joined the fight to Knock Out Crime?

By Scott Christiansen, Winnebago County Chairman

Visit us online at: rockfordchamber.com n n

n n

online registration keynote speaker video clips event photos list of Chamber events

Questions? 815-987-8100

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

I work and live in Winnebago County just like many of you do. I feel the impact crime is having on us as individuals, as businesses and organizations, and as a community. That’s why I brought many government leaders and nearly 100 officers together at the first Public Safety Summit in January to listen to experts and brainstorm how to work together to fight crime.

We agreed that change won’t happen overnight, but we all need to take the first steps. In April, I was honored the Rockford Chamber invited me to

unveil our joint plan at the “State of the County” address.

It focused on a joint crime initiative called “Knock Out Crime.”

The Best News?

It’s working. Knock out Crime combines several initiatives into one campaign, and thanks to the Rockford Chamber of Commerce, local law enforcement and county residents.

We’re already seeing signs of progress in the fight against crime in our region.

The bottom line rests on creating more on page 4

HomeStart, a nonprofit housing counseling agency in Rockford and Freeport, received a $2.5 million grant from the Illinois Attorney General’s office. Funds will be used to create a home resource center with classrooms and conference rooms and a housing counseling center, as well as intake and assessment services for a proposed foreclosure mediation program, and construction of up to 10 new homes and rehabilitation of 40 others in Rockford, Freeport and Belvidere.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

REGIONAL

Business Expo

Sept. 19 • BMO Harris Bank Center For more info, see page 34

KEEP NORTHERN ILLINOIS BEAUTIFUL EXPANDS RECYCLING Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful now accepts metals, electronics and bagged clothing at its free Recycling Center in Roscoe, 13125 N. Second St., 9 a.m. to noon every Saturday. No TVs, monitors or appliances with Freon. Other acceptable recyclables include corrugated cardboard, paper, glass and metal food containers, plastics coded #1 or #2 with “necks and shoulders,” all types of aluminum, cell phones, egg cartons and plastic six-pack rings. More recycling information in the “Green Guide” at www.knib.org.

NEW RECYCLING TRANSFER FACILITY Rock River Environmental Services, which is looking at ways to increase recycling in Winnebago County, held a groundbreaking ceremony in July for a new Recycling Transfer Facility at 8403 Lindenwood Road, Rockford. The facility is one phase of the EcoRock Environmental Technologies Campus, approved last year in July by the Winnebago County Board.

The new recycling center will expand processing capabilities to enable Rock River Environmental Services to manage and execute more of the recycling process locally.

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September 2013

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President’s Message VIEWPOINT Selection of next RVC president a critical step in education progress As I write this, the Rock Valley College Board of Trustees have engaged the services of a recruitment firm to initiate the search process for RVC’s next College President, its fifth since its founding in 1964. Current RVC President Jack Becherer will be leaving the College at the end of the Spring 2014 Semester.

The Board and recruitment firm are now beginning their process for obtaining input on the needs of the College and the ideal profile for its next leader.

Rock Valley College is a significant asset to this region on many fronts: for degree attainment, for spring boarding students to a four year degree, meeting the needs of local employers in terms of workforce development and technical support, as well as serving many other community needs. As we continue to make positive progress towards our public education system, we have to remain mindful that RVC is an important cog in advancing the overall success in education from their support with K-12 systems, dual credit options that have been created, and recent initiatives to ramp up skill development and workforce literacy with programs tied very closely to specific jobs and industries in our region. We know that as a business

community we have significant workforce gaps, in addressing existing needs as well as knowing where our future workforce may be coming from. This is why in the selection of the next President, significant input must be sought by College leaders from key stakeholders to the College, including from the business community and the “job creators.”

Here are some reasons why community colleges can have a significant impact for advancing our local economy: ■■ The average community college fulltime student pays only $2,521 per year in tuition and fees. At a time when access to higher education is considered least accessible, community colleges offer a high quality education offering that is highly accessible.

■■ Community colleges offer training in over 300 different careers/occupations.

■■ Nearly seventy percent of the career and technical program graduates are employed in the community college district where they were educated and trained. They make positive contributions to the regional economy.

■■ More than 80 percent of Illinois employers have hired a community

college student over the last ten years and that nearly 30% of Illinois employees have completed a credit course at a community college in that same time period.

■■ Community

■■ On average, all students who complete their Illinois community college education experience a double-digit percentage increase in earnings over their pre-enrollment wages. Illinois community college graduates employed full-time averaged more than $30,000 statewide in annual earnings after graduating.

“reskilling”

■■ Of all postsecondary sectors, community colleges enroll by far the highest proportion of low income youth, particularly from urban centers; the highest proportion of legal immigrants seeking to develop their skills and expand their opportunities; and the highest proportion of minority groups who are under represented both at middle- and upper-income levels and in good jobs with career opportunities.

Heading off the spread of poverty among these groups and reversing the growing disparity of wealth and income are among the most important tasks facing our nation. Community colleges are one of the keys to meeting these challenges.

colleges

are

taking on the huge task of

Einar K. Forsman Rockford Chamber of Commerce

America’s work force by helping millions of working adults develop higher levels of basic and technical skills. Success in this unprecedented challenge is essential if America’s workers are to earn good wages and if their employers are to compete in demanding world markets.

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce through its public policy efforts and it political action committee over the past three years has been extensively engaged in having the public education system for K-12 and community college be more aware of the needs of area employers, including backing certain candidates for their respective boards. We are thrilled with the response and actions taken on all fronts in addressing programs tied towards careers and workforce development, but we need to continue. Please be sure to reach out to RVC Board of Trustees to let them know how important the selection of RVC’s next President is to business.

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September 2013

PROFILE

Board Member Profile

A focus on sharing my time, lifelong learning What do you want to contribute as part of the Chamber board?

The overarching goal in anything I do, from my daily job to my volunteer work, is to improve upon the community in which I live, work and play and know that this will make it a better place for those that come after us, especially my children. Rockford has nurtured me professionally and personally. I believe time is one of the most valuable assets you can give to your community. By sharing my talent and expertise, I get to see firsthand the progressive impact of my efforts.

Why is the Chamber important to business and the community?

The chamber, much like RFD, is integral in improving the quality of life of the members within its community as well as providing opportunities for strategic partnerships, business growth and expansion. Most importantly, the chamber offers businesses and organizations a way to present itself as one unifying unit, in one voice, towards one goal: promoting, enhancing and sustaining a vibrant community.

What is the name/current purpose of your business/organization?

Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) has progressively evolved from a general aviation facility to a dynamic, hassle-free commercial service airport. It offers nonstop passenger service to eight top domestic and international leisure destinations.

The airport has an economic impact to our region of almost one billion dollars annually, being the third largest commercial service airport in Illinois. It is designated as the primary diversion airport by more than 30 airlines and is home to the second largest UPS sorting facility in the Midwest. On trend to surpass its highest passenger traffic record in 2013, RFD subscribes to the belief that your vacation starts as soon as you arrive to the airport.

What are your business background/responsibilities?

bring 18 years of

experience

in

providing

fiscal,

strategic

and operational leadership the

to

airport.

Amy M. Ott Chicago Rockford International Airport

The airport has seen significant change since I began and includes the return of passenger service, the increased awareness of RFD to the region, development and expansion of the various industry and business on our campus and significant infrastructure improvements and expansion of more than $60 million with support from our state and federal leaders.

What trend is most strongly impacting your industry?

The economic recovery still remains a

priority

consideration

facing

the

aviation industry. As more families chose “staycations” as a budgetary measure, we have not only been successful in keeping our flight costs competitive, we’ve also been able to add new travel destinations. This distinction is a true testament to our valued travel and airline partner relationships and our commitment to providing the best experience for our guests.

We continue to work to develop and grow one of our region’s greatest assets

with

business

development

and expansion that position RFD for significant growth in the future. We are very excited about the possibilities.

What in your career has had the greatest impact on you?

I think the greatest realization that came to me many years ago is that our careers should consist of a lifelong learning process. The importance of learning new things, the willingness to step outside of what is comfortable, and to know that I can take my knowledge, skills and abilities and share and continue the cycle of improving what I can do for

I have been with RFD since 2003 and tomorrow.

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

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

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

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

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

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September 2013

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We Are Rockford.

Knockout Crime

chairman of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce board of directors. “They did it in Chicago, and I would like to see a similar group like that step up here and do that for Rockford.”

Rockford’s business leaders in attendance seem to support a similar idea. “What they’ve done in Chicago, you can’t just take that as a template and pop it into your community,” said Dr. Bill Gorski, president and CEO of SwedishAmerican Health System.

“The needs of your community are unique, and you have to have a breadth of community engagement to move forward. We’ve been too silent for too long, but I think we’re on the cusp of bringing down the silos.”

“We really are an extension of Chicago,” said Winnebago County Chairman Scott Christiansen. “We need to get involved in the planning process and see where things are going so that we don’t end up choked off. I still think passenger rail is a big key to all of this. If we can get that going, we can relieve some of the congestion on the roads. We have some willful minds in Rockford that are saying, ‘We need to transform our community.’”

Metropolis’ board members not only include business leaders, but union officials, clergy, suburban mayors and representatives of the governor and mayor of Chicago.

“It’s interesting that they don’t use consultants. They use people that have

an environment where citizens are engaged in their community and can easily and quickly correspond with local law enforcement for more active crime prevention.

Continued from front page

Continued from front page

Chamber president Einar Forsman and former mayor John McNamara speak with presenter George Ranney.

Mayor Lawrence Morrissey talks with Rockford Chamber chair, Rich Walsh and Chamber president Einar Forsman.

Andrea Ward, BMO Harris Bank and Patti Thayer, Thayer Lighting, Inc. share thoughts with Lynette Jacques, Rockford Chamber.

Speaker George Ranney, president and CEO of Metropolis Strategies.

been there, done that, and are part of the real world,” said Senator Dave Syverson.

“I think, too often, government relies on consultants – people who aren’t from the community. They talk about some theory that never works and we’re back to square one again. Talking to people who are out there on the streets, giving common sense solutions, is a better way to go.”

Ranney also encouraged the audience to support reform for the way the state draws its legislative districts. He passed out petition forms and suggested leaders visit www.independentmaps.org to ask for support.

“The issue of redistricting is vital,” Syverson said. “They understand that if we don’t have a fair and equitable map system, that’s going to affect your congressional representation, your legislative representation and how things are done in Springfield, whether it’s educational funding or road funding.

The biggest change we can have in Illinois is to have a fair map system. I’m glad the business community in Chicago is recognizing that as a major priority.”

The luncheon was sponsored

by BMO Harris Bank, along with SwedishAmerican Health System, Humana and AT&T. n

Text-A-Tip Results One of the most successful Knock Out Crime initiatives so far is “TextA-Tip.” Search for this crime reporting app in the Apple Store or Google Play to download it. Search for “Winnebago County” and you’ll find the “Tip WCSO” app that stands for Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office.

Tips reported through this app are anonymous, ensuring no one will feel intimidated or afraid to let local law enforcement know about any type of illegal activity. It’s very powerful to be able to send a message directly to the Sheriff’s Department without fear of repercussions.

In just the last few months since the app launched, the Text-A-Tip app has provided law enforcement with more than 250 crime tips from area residents. Use it!

More Feet On The Street Have you seen a police officer knocking on doors lately? If you have, you’ve witnessed a second initiative in our Knock Out Crime effort. We’re putting more officers on the street and in more on page 28

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September 2013

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

Employer responses to the Concealed Carry Act Concerns an employer may have

Last month the Illinois legislature passed the Firearm Concealed Carry Act, P.A. 098-0063. Under the new law, individuals who have a valid FOID card, satisfy various background requirements, and complete training may be licensed to carry concealed firearms in areas other than “prohibited locations.”

Prohibited locations include schools, government buildings, hospitals, public transportation, bars, stadiums and many other public places. Private property owners also may designate their property as a prohibited location.

The act allows licensees to carry concealed firearms on their person inside a vehicle into the parking areas of most prohibited locations, store firearms and ammunition concealed in a case within a locked vehicle or a locked container out of plain view within a vehicle in such parking areas, and have an unloaded firearm just outside of a vehicle for the purpose of storing or retrieving it.

However, firearms may not be carried or stored anywhere at nuclear power plants or where prohibited by federal law.

Firearms in the Workplace Unlike some other states’ laws, the Illinois law does not directly address an employer’s ability to prohibit firearms in the workplace. Instead, employers must determine whether the act designates their worksite as a prohibited location.

If not, the employer may choose to

designate its property as a prohibited location.

To designate property as a prohibited location, a sign must be clearly and conspicuously posted at the entrance of the building, premises or real property.

The sign must be 4x6 inches in size and meet other requirements, to be determined by the Illinois State Police in upcoming months. Employers who lease their worksites should determine whether they need their landlord’s consent to post the necessary signage.

The new law also must be read with the Illinois Right to Privacy in the Workplace Act, 820 ILCS 55/5, which generally prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of an employee’s use of lawful products off the premises during nonworking hours, except to the extent such use impairs the employee’s ability to perform assigned duties. As such, employers cannot refuse to hire individuals licensed to carry a firearm, and should avoid inquiries about an individual’s concealed carry status except as may be necessary to confirm the employee’s authority to carry a firearm or keep firearms in parking areas. The Right to Privacy Act does not prevent an employer from prohibiting the possession of firearms by employees inside the employer’s workplace, or while working at other locations, using company vehicles, or driving one’s own vehicle to perform work-related activities.

Concealed Carry and Workplace Violence Passage of the Concealed Carry Act may result in concerns about the possibility that workplace violence will escalate as a result of an individual’s

Bobbie Holzwarth Holmstrom & Kennedy, P.C.

right to carry. The act does not impose any new or additional obligations on employers with respect to preventing or addressing workplace violence.

However, under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, 29 U.S.C. 654(a)(1), employers have a general duty to provide a place of employment that “is free from recognizable hazards that are causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm.” As they do with other potentially dangerous equipment, employers that allow concealed carry should adopt policies and programs to ensure that firearms are safeguarded to prevent their misuse in the workplace.

More generally, an employer may violate the Occupational Safety and

Maryjo Pirages Holmstrom & Kennedy, P.C.

authorities in addition to being subject to discipline. Finally, employers may wish to evaluate their security and emergency plans to ensure preparedness in the event of an incident of workplace violence.

An employer should consult with its insurance providers and legal counsel before

adopting

policies

regarding

concealed carry. Employers that choose to allow concealed carry should consider how access and use by unlicensed employees will be prevented, as well as the circumstances under which a licensed employee’s right to carry should be restricted.

Employers who prefer to designate

An employer should consult with its insurance providers and legal counsel before adopting policies regarding concealed carry.

Health Act by failing to take action if the employer knows or should know that the risk of workplace violence exists, such as where there is a history of violent behavior or threats of violence.

Given this, employers should determine whether their policies need updating to directly address the issue of workplace violence. Such policies should prohibit violent behavior and threats of violence, advise that work areas and company lockers may be subject to search for weapons, create mechanisms for reporting and addressing workplace violence, and provide that violators may be reported to law enforcement

their property as a prohibited location must post the required sign and comply with the Concealed Carry Act’s parking area rules. They also may adopt policies prohibiting firearms and other weapons on company property and other worksites, in company vehicles, and while driving one’s personal vehicle for work-related purposes “to the fullest extent allowed under applicable law”. In either case, employers are encouraged to review their existing policies to ensure they comply with the Concealed Carry Act and related employment laws.

Bobbie Holzwarth and Maryjo Pirages are Attorneys at Law at Holmstrom & Kennedy, P.C., Rockford.

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

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September 2013

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EIGERlab assists brewmasters

By Sherry Pritz, EIGERlab Thanks to EIGERlab’s Center for Product Development (C4PD), Henry Schwartz, founder and CEO of MobCraft, based in Madison, Wis., now has the ability to draw attention to his product. MobCraft, a small craft brewery, sought a unique solution to enable its beer company to stand out from the sea of other beer handles competing for patronage.

It partnered with EIGERlab and created a distinctly different-shaped handle, thus solving the dilemma.

Schwartz and his partners, Andrew Gierczak and Giotto Troia, took second place in the 2012 Rock/Walworth counties’ FastPitch competition. Schwartz stated, “The competition was a great way for me to really hammer down my business model. Being under pressure to sum up my whole business in a short speech made me think through all the possible things someone would need to hear in order to

understand our concept in a short amount of time.” MobCraft used its winnings to help launch its business.

In January, 2013, Schwartz and his partners participated in the FastPitch World Series, where they were introduced to a small business lender that facilitated funding for their first capital investment.

Schwartz shared the following on assistance they’ve received, “The EIGERlab and University of Wisconsin Whitewater (UWW) have helped us both financially and intellectually, they have been a sounding board for ideas, and helped us move in the right direction.

I don’t see our company being this established today without them.”

MobCraft has no problem being considered unique. It’s the world’s first completely crowdsourced brewery.

MobCraft makes batches of custom craft beer monthly based on user-uploaded ideas.

After a voting round, the beer is produced and shipped to customers in 36 states.

From left to right, MobCraft partners are Giotto Troia, Henry Schwartz and Andrew Gierczak (not shown).

Schwartz’s first semester in UWW’s incubation program was May, 2011. With UWW’s assistance and through the State of Ingenuity six-county grant, he was introduced to the EIGERlab’s C4PD. “With this opportunity, we saved not only precious funds, but also time, because we produced a better-performing handle from the onset; more visually appealing than our competitors and more functional.” In the summer of 2011, MobCraft was born.

Just two short years later, MobCraft’s craft beers now are available at select

establishments

in

Whitewater

and

Madison, Wis. It’s slated to participate in nine festivals and events this year. CEO and founder Schwartz now is a visiting fellow in the Whitewater Incubation Program, and an Innovation Center affiliate (or virtual tenant) -- paying it forward to entrepreneurs who are interested in pursuing their dreams Sherry Pritz is marketing coordinator at EIGERlab/Rock Valley College.

The battle for human capital

By Terrance Hall, RAEDC If there is a common thread that connects businesses and non-profits across all industry sectors, regardless of company size, it is the fact that having the right people in place is critical to remaining competitive, productive and viable. That being said, finding the right people is difficult, as evident by the roughly 3 million positions that go unfilled every month despite the nearly 13 million Americans currently looking for work. Surely a significant portion of this disconnect is the result of a substantial gap between the skills of our workforce and the skills the most difficultto-fill positions require. This, of course, will not be solved overnight and will take years of productive collaboration between industry and education to address.

unsaid is that employers play a critical role in keeping even the most driven employees engaged. So what can employers do to decrease the time it takes to find the right people, increase the success rate of attracting new talent and maintain employee engagement and productivity?

Forum on Attracting Human Capital

Attend the Employer Forum for Attracting, Retaining, and Managing Your Workforce, sponsored and organized by the Workforce Connection. This event is for anyone who believes that having the right people is vital to their organization’s success. This is NOT a job fair and is not intended for job seekers. By expanding the knowledge, resources, tools and contacts of employers, the Employer Forum aims to ensure that all attendees improve their outcomes and experiences when it comes Training Talent is Critical to attracting, retaining and managing their While there is much work to be done on most valuable asset -- human capital. the education side of the equation, there are other reasons so many positions go unfilled. Terrance Hall is business development specialist at There are employers simply holding out the RAEDC. for the ever-elusive “perfect candidate” or just not seeking out candidates using WORKFORCE CONNECTION today’s most effective means. And while EMPLOYER FORUM competitive salaries go a long way in Three locations! No cost to attend. convincing the right people to come to work 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in your organization, once they are found, a Rockford. Sept. 26 at the Regional complete strategy for attracting talent goes Design Center, 315 N. Main St. beyond just wages. Even though training Stephenson County. Oct. 10 at comes with a price, there is measurable Highland Community College. return on investment. If done right, training Boone County. Oct. 30 at the is cost effective, and when not done at all, is Community Building Complex.

For information or to register, visit terminal to the health of an organization.

What often is noticed but often goes www.theworkforceconnection.org.

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September 2013

Next Generation Manufacturing assessment for

2013 NEXT GENERATION STUDY: FAQS What is Next Generation Manufacturing?

Next Generation Manufacturing (NGM) is a process measuring manufacturers’ readiness, support systems and resources, and performances in key strategic areas necessary for world-class manufacturing and future success.

Many manufacturers are turning towards NGM to determine if they have a framework of strategies in place to drive manufacturing growth and profitability.

What is the NGM study?

The NGM study provides data and benchmarking for manufacturers in Illinois and across the nation to achieve success in the next generation by capturing strategies for competitive advantages, best practices to support execution of those strategies, and performance goals against which to measure their progress. An individual “scorecard” of the results provides a gap analysis between where the manufacturer is today and where they need to be to achieve future goals.

Who participates in the NGM study?

Any U.S. manufacturing owner, CEO or senior-level executive is eligible to participate.

Why do manufacturers take time to participate in the study?

The free data manufacturers receive following completion of the NGM Study will be critical to their improvement and will answer vital questions: ■■ How does my company’s performance stack up vs. our competitors?

■■ What do I need to do differently to catch up — or stay ahead?

■■ What’s the latest innovation in manufacturing management — and am I ready to adopt it?

■■ Do I have the talent and tools to compete in 2013? And in the future?

Illinois manufacturers returns for 2013 In August, 2013, the Next Generation Manufacturing study returned for its third run, providing small- and medium-sized manufacturers an opportunity to compare themselves to similar manufacturers in key strategic areas. Also conducted in 2009 and 2011, the NGM study gives manufacturers in Illinois and across the nation an opportunity to achieve success in the next generation by offering strategies that can help them capture competitive advantages, best practices to support execution of those strategies, and performance goals against which to measure their progress.

Manufacturing executives participate in the study by completing a free, quick and confidential online survey. The results of the survey measure their readiness, support systems and resources, and performances in six key strategic areas necessary for world-class manufacturing and future success: Customer-Focused Innovation.

Develop, make and market new products and services that meet customers’ needs at a pace faster than the competition.

Superior Processes/Improvement Focus. Record annual productivity and quality gains that exceed the competition through a companywide commitment to continuous improvement.

Human-Capital Management.

Secure a competitive performance advantage by having superior systems in place to recruit, hire, develop and retain talent.

Supply-Chain Management and Collaboration. Develop and manage supply chains and partnerships that provide flexibility, response time and delivery performance that exceeds the competition.

Sustainability. Design and implement waste and energy-use reductions at a level that provides superior cost performance and recognizable customer value.

Global Engagement. Secure business advantages by having people, partnerships and systems in place capable of engaging global markets and talents better than the competition.

Once the survey closes and data is assessed for the nation as an aggregate and for each state individually, results will be shared through the study partners, including Illinois MEP center – IMEC, the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center.

Additionally, manufacturing respondents receive a free performance report or “scorecard” that describes how they rank against world-class performance benchmarks and targets their specific improvements where needed.

“These are critical times for manufacturing.

Today’s globally competitive markets should be a strong call to action, and this study was an opportunity for leaders to take their company’s pulse and understand their progress towards world class,” said David Boulay, IMEC president. “Equally important, the aggregated results from this study help stakeholders develop and implement policies and programs to support successful Next Generation Manufacturing in Illinois in the coming years.

IMEC helps manufacturing firms across the state identify, assess and implement strategic solutions for all aspects of the business, but most closely target the six NGM strategies to ensure the manufacturer is setting a path for future competitiveness and success on a worldclass level. With capabilities in continuous

Amy Fitzgerald IMEC

improvement, strategy and innovation, workforce and talent development, sustainability and supply chain optimization, IMEC’s solutions for companies from small to large have a proven track record of success and sustainability and a strong return of $20 on average, for every one dollar invested by the manufacturer.

On Oct. 4, the NGM study preliminary results are slated to be released to supporting partners, and coincide with the National Manufacturing Day initiative, creating an even broader sense of awareness for the industry and hopeful pride for the improvements made towards world-class status in the United States from the 2009 and 2011 studies. Data will be shared by IMEC through events across the state with various regional partners interested in educating local manufacturing constituents on the latest trends in the six strategic categories.

If you’re interested in a regional initiative, please contact Amy Fitzgerald, IMEC marketing manager at 309-677-2977 or afitzgerald@imec. org.

About the Next Generation Manufacturing Study The NGM Study is part of a national research effort coordinated by the American Small Manufacturers Coalition (ASMC) and the Association for Manufacturing Excellence, in partnership MEP centers across the nation. The study is conducted by The Manufacturing Performance Institute Group (MPI), a global research firm and thought leader on manufacturing performance, management and customer value.

Manufacturing Update is sponsored by IMEC

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September 2013

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Another first for Rockford

Media conference displays highlights from our region For the first-time ever, travel journalists came to the Rockford Region for a prestigious travel industry trade show, the Travel Media Conference, Aug. 20 to 23.

More than 100 travel writers, bloggers and broadcasters from North America – representing media such as the Chicago Tribune, Wall Street Journal, Huffington Post, Midwest Living, Fox News Travel, Boston Globe, Golf Vacation magazine and more – visited and enjoyed Rockford’s unique sites and attractions.

Their experience will help spread the word about Rockford in a highly positive way and was a unique opportunity to shape the story being told about Rockford. These people influence the perceptions of cities as well as the travel patterns and choices for leisure and business visitors.

The response from these travel professionals was overwhelmingly enthusiastic. They were impressed with the seven tours that the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau organized for them – the Great Gardens Tour, Historical Sites Tour, Arts & Culture Tour, Family Fun Tour, Rockford Originals Tour, Adventure Tour and Rick’s Picks Tour. The Historical Sites Tour drew the most attendees and showcased Tinker Swiss Cottage

The trade show with 75 exhibitor booths was held John Groh Rockford Area at Giovanni’s Convention & Restaurant & Visitors Bureau Convention Center, and included meals there as well as Prairie Street Brewhouse and Anderson Gardens.

The Laurent House Museum, designed by legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, wows travel writers from the United States and Canada who attended the Travel Media Showcase in Rockford in August. Included in the home is Wright-designed furniture for the Laurents.

Museum, Erlander Home Museum, Laurent House by Frank Lloyd Wright and Midway Village Museum.

Jerry Heinzeroth, president of the Laurent House Board of Directors, proudly showed off the only home designed by the legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright for a person with disabilities, Kenneth Laurent, and his wife, Phyllis. “I told the travel writers that when the Laurents lived there, they frequently welcomed into their private home worldwide visitors who were Frank Lloyd Wright admirers.

The travel professionals felt pretty special to get such an intimate look at this American treasure. In fact, some of them wanted to contribute to the

restoration and renovation that we are undertaking now.”

The four other tours included the following attractions. The Great Gardens Tour featured Nicholas Conservatory, Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, Anderson Japanese Gardens and LaPaloma Gardens. The Arts & Culture Tour included Starlight Theatre, Rockford Art Museum, Coronado Theatre and local art galleries. The Family Fun Tour included the Burpee Museum of Natural History, Discovery Center Museum and Volcano Falls.

Lastly, the Adventure Tour showed off the Forest City Queen, Paddle & Trail on the Rock River, Trolley Car 36 and Aldeen Golf Course.

Bottom Line?

This is just a sampling of what these professional travel writers experienced of the Rockford Region, and as you can see, we have an abundance of outstanding sites, attractions and offerings for visitors and citizens.

The bottom line? This is the visitor infrastructure that helped the Rockford area visitor industry add $326 million to the local economy in 2012, up 4.7 percent from the prior year. And with the travel writers’ positive words about the Rockford Region after Travel Media Showcase 2013, the RACVB is confident that the economic impact of our visitor industry will be even greater in the years to come.

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

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

9

September 2013

Issues to Watch LEGISLATIVE individuals on the basis of a preexisting condition beginning Jan. 1, 2014.)

Sponsor: Rep. Flowers (D-Chicago) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose

The following is current Illinois legislation in healthcare and health insurance, and the Illinois Chamber of Commerce’s positions.

HEALTHCARE Consumer Health Insurance Counsel (HB0023) Creates a Consumer Health Insurance Counsel that represents the interests of health insurance consumers. Counsel may asses impact of insurance rates, rules and forms on consumers.

Sponsor: Rep. Flowers (D-Chicago) Status: Lost in House 54-61-0 Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose Insurance Rate Regulators (HB2736) Creates the independent quasijudicial Health Insurance Rate Review Board to ensure insurance rates are reasonable and justified. Sets forth duties and prohibited activities concerning the board.

Sponsor: Rep. Fine (D-Chicago) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose Universal Healthcare (HB0942) Provides universal healthcare coverage for all individuals residing in the state.

Sponsor: Rep. Flowers (D-Chicago) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose Medicaid Expansion (SB0026) Bill allows for participation in Medicaid expansion.

Sponsor: Sen. Steans (D-Chicago) and Rep. Feigenholtz (D-Chicago) Status: Passed Senate and House Illinois Chamber Position: Support Illinois Health Benefits Exchange (SB0034) Establishes the Illinois Health Benefits Exchange.

Sponsor: Sen. Koehler (D-Chicago) Status: Re-referred to Assignments Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose Insurance Navigator Act (SB1194) Establishes Insurance Navigator licensing and training standards.

Sponsor: Sen. Haine (D-Alton)/Rep. Mautino (D-Spring Valley) Status: Passed Senate 53-0-0/ Assigned to Health Care Licenses Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Support Exclusive Provider Benefit (SB1273/HB1284) Bill allows for participation in Medicaid expansion.

Sponsor: Sen. Munoz (D-Chicago)/ Rep. Lang (D-Skokie) Status: Re-referred to Assignments/ Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Reviewing

Tax bill passed to support local tourism Ill. Gov. Pat Quinn was in Rockford on Aug. 10 to sign Senate Bill 1859. The bill amends the Counties Code to allow the Winnebago County board, with the consent of municipalities representing at least 67% percent of the population of Winnebago County, to impose a tax of up to 2% on local hotels. Property taxes and general sales taxes will not be increased.

Currently, hotels and motels collect for the City of Rockford a 5% tourism (hotel/motel) tax, 6-1/4% sales tax and 1% Redevelopment Fund tax.

Revenues from the 2% tax will support the county’s sports, arts and other entertainment or tourism facilities. This would include the Reclaiming First master plan, a vision for retaining, regaining and growing the area’s sports tourism industry by providing new recreational and sports opportunities for local citizens.

It is projected that a countywide increase of 2% in the hotel tax would generate $15 million as well as increase $16 million in visitor spending, generate $1.9 million in new revenue, and create more than 400 jobs.

WHY THE UPGRADES? Since 2007, the Rockford region has experienced an annual 11 percent decrease in amateur sports tournaments resulting in an annual loss of $1.4 million for the region. This is attributed to Co-Pay Limitations (SB1754) Limits co-payments to no more than 50% of total bill charges for healthcare services.

Sponsor: Sen. McCann (R-Jacksonville) Status: Re-referred to Assignments Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose Insurance Rate Regulators (SB2344) Establishes rate regulation for health insurance.

Sponsor: Sen. Steans (D-Chicago) Status: Re-referred to Assignments Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose

HEALTH INSURANCE Nutritional Support Mandate (HB0020) Mandates coverage for intravenous feeding, tube feeding and medically

the Great Recession, deficiencies within current facilities and the lure of high-quality facilities in other communities. Additionally, and importantly, current facilities are no longer able to meet the needs of our citizens.

The Rockford region’s sports facilities master plan, Reclaiming First, provides a framework for growing sports tourism and providing recreational services for local residents.

1. Indoor Complex. Facility for basketball/volleyball and other sports with eight basketball/16 volleyball interchangeable courts, located at the City of Rockfordowned “Ingersoll” building along the Rock River.

2. Modernize Sportscore Two. Add six artificial and lighted multipurpose fields, which can be used for soccer, rugby, lacrosse, softball and baseball.

3. Expand Indoor Sports Center. Retrofit the existing structure from one to two indoor soccer fields and expand the building to include three new indoor soccer fields.

4. Upgrade Sportscore One. At Sportscore One upgrade this 30-year-old facility with the repair and replacement of wayfinding signage, lighting, restrooms and parking lots.

For more information on Reclaiming First, visit www. reclaimingfirst.org. appropriate prescription nutritional supplements.

Sponsor: Rep. Flowers (D-Chicago) Status: Tabled Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose AIDS Vaccine Mandate (HB0022) Mandates coverage for a vaccine for acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) approved for marketing by the FDA. Sponsor: Rep. Flowers (D-Chicago) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose Pre-Existing Condition (HB0024) Provides for guaranteed issuance of health insurance (regardless of preexisting condition). (The federal health reform law (ACA) already prohibits insurers from barring coverage to

Dependent Health Insurance Coverage (HB0030) Increases the mandatory coverage for dependent children from age 26 to 29.

Sponsor: Rep. Crespo (D-Streamwood) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose CHIP Cease-Health Exchange (HB2932) Same as SB1717. Chamber Initiative.

Sponsor: Rep. Osmond (R-Gurnee) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Support Health Exchange Dissolve CHIP (HB2933) Same as SB1716. Chamber Initiative.

Sponsor: Rep. Osmond (R-Gurnee) Status: Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Support Hearing Aid Mandate (SB0038/ HB1231) Mandates coverage for hearing aids, with coverage provided up to $2,500 per hearing aid per hearing impaired ear.

Sponsor: Sen. Silverstein (D-Chicago)/ Rep. Brady (R-Normal) Status: Re-referred to Assignments/ Re-referred to Rules Committee Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose Telemedicine Coverage (SB1422) Mandates coverage for telemedicine services.

Sponsor: Sen. Hunter (D-Chicago) Status: Re-referred to Assignments Illinois Chamber Position: Oppose Health Exchange Dissolve CHIP (SB1716) Establishes a dissolution plan for state health insurance pools (CHIP).

Chamber initiative.

Sponsor: Sen. Haine (D-Alton) Status: Re-referred to Assignments Illinois Chamber Position: Support Chip CHIP Cease-Health Exchange (SB1717) Establishes a state run level health insurance exchange. Establishes a dissolution plan for state health insurance pools (CHIP). Chamber initiative.

Sponsor: Sen. Haine (D-Alton) Status: Re-referred to Assignments Illinois Chamber Position: Support

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

11

September 2013

Rockford University PERSPECTIVE

Two approaches to strategy

It takes the right plan, with the right staff What kind of strategic planning process are you using in your business?

Who is involved? What is the time horizon?

I imagine that the answers to these questions are different from the answers that you might have provided a decade ago. Increased globalization and the sheer speed of business has altered the way that we plan – the methods we use, the people we involve and our overall planning horizon.

I have had the opportunity to teach strategy to MBA students for several years. As part of the class, we talk with one another about the various ways that we approach strategic issues in our different organizations. There were, of course, many approaches used. But there are some similarities in the way that organizations approach planning.

Tale of Two Theorists Two of the leading theorists in the area of strategy are Michael Porter and Henry Mintzberg. Both have been studying and writing about strategy for decades, and they have differing approaches. If you are unfamiliar with their work, let me encourage you to read two articles: Michael Porter’s The Five Competitive Forces that Shape Strategy (Harvard Business Review, 2008) and Henry Mintzberg’s Crafting Strategy (Harvard Business Review, 1987). These two articles are a great introduction into the study of strategy and will give you two different approaches to consider.

To give you a sense of the articles, I’ll give a quick synopsis of each.

Porter originally published his “five forces” article in 1979 and offered an updated and extended version in 2008. He starts out by summarizing the whole concept into once sentence – “In essence, the job of the strategist is to understand and cope with competition” (p. 79). Porter encourages us to get a handle on the five forces that deal with the structure of our industry – our buyers, our suppliers, new entrants into the market, our rivals and available substitutes – and evaluate how our organization’s strengths and weaknesses relate to the five forces. Once we know where we stand in relation to the five forces, we can use these findings to create our strategy. Porter contends that a thorough review of the five forces will help us distinguish between short-term blips and structural changes.

Mintzberg, in Crafting Strategy, compares developing strategy to the

Dr. Eric W. Fulcomer Rockford University

work of an artist – “For much as our potter has to manage her craft, so too managers have to craft their strategy” (p. 66). He posits that strategies can emerge; and need not be deliberately created as part of a planning process. He further suggests that just as the potter creates artwork with her mind and her hands, the process of creating strategy must involve those who actually do the daily work and those responsible for running the organization. Good strategy involves people at every level of the organization. Another crucial point is that while we use strategy to plan the future, we must fully understand our past – “crafting strategy, like managing craft, requires a natural synthesis of the future, past, and present” (p. 75).

Strategy Built on a Firm Foundation While there are distinct differences between the theories of Michael Porter and Henry Mintzberg, I believe that we can learn important things from both of them. I have heard it described this way.

To Porter, strategy is something that you can figure out and get right, while to Mintzberg, strategy is organic and emerges when we bring together the mind and hands of the organization.

The takeaway for people who are in charge of strategy development or who have the opportunity to contribute to strategy development is this: Organizations today need to do the analytical work that Porter calls for, while making sure to include the right staff members to provide the insights into the past, present and future that Mintzberg suggests. The end result likely will be a strategy based on a solid foundation that has the buy-in from the staff. It will not be a strategy created in a vacuum, but instead be something that is adaptive and gives the organization the best opportunity to succeed.

Mintzberg, H. Harvard Business Review. Jul/Aug 1987, Vol. 65, Issue 4, p 66-75.

Porter, M. Harvard Business Review.

Jan 2008, Vol. 86, Issue 1, p 78-93.

Eric W. Fulcomer, Ph.D., is vice president for enrollment management at Rockford University.

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

12

September 2013

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Local businesses make Academy Expo possible Beginning this school year, students at Jefferson High School no longer will just be grouped by their graduating class. They now have a new distinction – their academy. But, what is an academy and how do students choose one?

An academy is a small learning community focused on college and career preparation. The four academies offered at Jefferson this year, and at all RPS high schools the following year, are:

Career Academy Expo, Sept. 18 Last year, about 300 volunteers from more than 60 area businesses participated

in

the

first

Career

Academy Expo at Jefferson High School. The event exposes students to a variety of career opportunities. It forges a relevant link between student curriculum and future careers and arms them with information to help them make their academy selection.

With academies starting at the

■■ BAMIT – Business, Arts, Marketing and Information Technology

other three high schools next year,

■■ EMITT – Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial and Trades Technology

5,000 students will gather at the BMO

■■ HS – Health Sciences

About 75 percent of businesses that

■■ HPS – Human and Public Services

are involved in this event are Rockford

Selecting an academy is an important decision. Academies will allow students to learn about core subjects like math, science and English in the context of their selected area of interest. Imagine a student who wants to be an aerospace engineer making regular connections between her interest in airplanes and her math or even her English class!

Once an academy is selected, students also will select a three-year sequence of courses called a pathway that will lead to college credit and/or career certification. While all students will continue to have access to a full schedule of rigorous college prep and even Advanced Placement courses within each of the four academies and all of the pathways, students are making a decision on what to spend the next three years studying. It’s similar to college students choosing a major.

It’s not something that students can do alone. At RPS, we prepare them in several ways – all eighth graders take a careers class, all ninth graders take a Freshman Seminar course and all students attend a Career Academy Expo.

this year’s Career Academy Expo will be an enormous event. About Harris Bank Center on Sept. 18 to learn about more than 150 careers.

Chamber of Commerce members.

This event would not be possible without Alignment Rockford, which has taken the lead on organizing this expo, and is a huge driving force in helping the school district partner with many community organizations.

Just recently, Alignment Rockford announced that Comcast will be the presenting sponsor of the expo.

There also are several volunteers who go above and beyond: Gordon Kaye from the BMO Harris Bank Center, Earl Wilsey from Schmeling Construction Co., and Maceo Rainey, principal at West Middle School.

Professionals coming together from different parts of the community for the students of RPS are what make Rockford a great place to live.

There still is time to participate in this year’s event. If you’d like information on how you can get involved, call Alignment Rockford at 815-654-4267.

Dr. Ehren Jarrett is superintendent of the Rockford Public Schools The views expressed are those of Jarrett’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

14

September 2013 theVoice rockfordchamber.com

FOCUS ON HEALTHCARE AND WELLNESS SERVICES

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

Guidelines for employee insurance under PPACA Over the past year, I’ve attended numerous seminars providing information and advice on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) or “Obamacare.” These seminars, however, often focused on a few narrow issues. Are you an employer with 50 or more full-time equivalent employees, subjecting you to the “pay or play” provisions of PPACA? If so, will you provide affordable health insurance coverage, or will consider paying penalties?

While these are important issues, they are only a few of the burdens placed on employers by PPACA. A very important consideration which many employers have not considered, is the impact of PPACA on health insurance administration. In particular, how do you determine the fundamental issue of when an employee is eligible for insurance?

When is an Employee Full-Time?

Employees who work 30 or more hours a month are “full-time” under PPACA and must be offered health insurance.

Technically, PPACA would require an employer to determine on a monthly basis who is and who is not eligible for insurance — who’s still working 30 hours, and who’s not.

Because a monthly eligibility determination would be administratively

burdensome, the IRS has proposed regulations establishing a safe harbor “measurement and stability” method of compliance. Under this method, you count an employee’s hours during a look-back measurement period to determine full-time status, and then you treat the employee as full-time (insurance eligible) or nonfull-time (insurance ineligible) during the following stability period, regardless of the hours the employee actually works.

Various Ways to Measure Sounds simple enough, right?

Of course, nothing is as simple as it seems. First, you need to consider two measurements periods. If you know the employee will be “full-time,” then they are eligible for insurance after their benefit waiting period (not more than 90 days). If, however, you are not sure if an employee will be full-time, the employee may be considered a “variable hour” employee.

Under the safe harbor, these employees would be subject to an “initial measurement period.” The initial measurement period is a period of not less than three months or more than 12 months used in determining whether a newly hired variable employee is averaging 30 hours per week. After the initial measurement period, variable hour employees’ status as full-time or not fulltime is locked in for a “stability period.”

The stability period for these employees must be at least six calendar months, but cannot be shorter than the initial measurement period. Confused yet?

The other measurement period is the “standard measurement period.” The period applies to “ongoing employees.” It is a defined time period of not less than three but not more than 12 consecutive months, as chosen by the employer. On-going employees have worked for the employer for at least one standard measurement period.

At the end of the standard measurement period, you determine the full-time status, and therefore, the insurance eligibility status of the employee.

Like the initial measurement period, a stability period follows the standard measurement period, and like the stability period for new variable hour employees, locks in their status regardless of how many hours the employees actually work. This period must be six consecutive calendar months, or the length of your standard measurement period, whichever is longer.

And for good measure, you may add in an “administrative period.” This is a waiting period between the end of an initial or standard measurement period and the beginning of the stability period.

During this time, you can review data to determine who actually is eligible for insurance. The administrative period

cannot exceed 90 days. The combined Samuel J. measurement Castree, Jr. period plus the Staff Management, Inc. administrative period can be no longer than 13 months and a fraction of another month.

I probably lost a few people there.

Good Records are Critical If you decide to use a safe harbor, careful recordkeeping is absolutely essential.

You will need to decide and document: What are your measurement and stability periods? Why do you believe someone will be a variable hours employee? Employee start dates. Employee hours worked and hours paid for time not worked. Any employee leave dates. Offers of insurance coverage, and more.

The Treasury Department has postponed the employer mandate until 2015; Even though you may have a little more breathing room, continue to press forward in preparing your procedures and systems for the administrative headaches that are to follow.

Samuel J. Castree, Jr., is the senior vice president and general counsel for Staff Management, Inc., a local provider of human resource management and consulting services.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

FOCUS ON HEALTHCARE AND WELLNESS SERVICES

September 2013

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

Two techniques to consider in contouring the body Body sculpting can successfully be accomplished by employing two different types of surgical procedures: suction assisted lipectomy (liposuction) and excisional techniques. The best approach to satisfy each patient’s needs and expectations requires a careful analysis and an individualized treatment.

Liposuction is a commonly requested procedure, and often can yield a good outcome if done safely and for the right patient. Just because a friend or family member had a good result with liposuction doesn’t necessarily make it the right choice for anyone seeking some type of body contouring.

Since the anatomic issues are always specific to each patient, it is vital to evaluate the quality as well as the quantity of excess skin and subcutaneous fat. If indicated, liposuction typically can suction up to five liters of fat in one procedure.

The outcome of this technique is dependent on the ability of the overlying skin to appropriately contract following removal of the fat. If the skin is of poor quality or in significant excess, liposuction can make the problem even worse. Generally, younger patients with firm skin of good quality and more localized areas of fat deposition will make the best candidates for this procedure.

Excisional techniques are performed in body contouring surgeries that are designed to remove excess skin and fat in specific anatomic areas, as commonly performed in procedures such as abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and brachioplasty (arm lift). These patients, in contrast to patients who are better candidates for suction assisted lipectomy alone, more commonly present with more significant skin laxity, possibly following pregnancy or weight loss.

In the most extreme cases of

15

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

Dr. Landon Pryor Transformations Plastic Surgery

massive weight loss, entire anatomic units can be surgically addressed together to more comprehensively address the body in three dimensions. These surgeries, commonly referred to as “body lifts,” can be longer with potentially more risks involved and should be carefully discussed and planned to minimize adverse outcomes.

Check Credentials Both liposuction and excisional surgeries can be applied separately, or when appropriate, safely combined to achieve synergistic and powerful results. However, doing too much at one time can be hazardous to a patient.

Using good clinical judgment that is appropriate for each patient’s situation, as well as adhering to specific guidelines put forth by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, is of paramount importance to avoid potential safetyrelated problems, especially in longer and more involved surgeries.

As a guideline, it’s important always to be aware of your prospective doctor’s training and credentials. This underscores the importance seeking out the most qualified surgeons who have been certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Additionally, plastic surgeons with extensive experience in performing cosmetic plastic surgery are eligible for inclusion into The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, known as the “Mark of Distinction in Cosmetic Plastic Surgery.”

Dr. Landon Pryor is a board-certified plastic surgeon and president of Transformations Plastic Surgery.

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

Cut, sprain, break?

Know when to seek urgent care Injuries can come fast and furious when kids are outdoors enjoying the warmer temperatures and all the fun opportunities that summer provides.

Parents know all too well this is the time of year when children will get injured playing sports, skateboarding, riding bikes, jumping on trampolines, or just rough-housing in the backyard.

Knowing when to bring children to the doctor after an injury can be tricky.

Here’s some basic guidelines for when medical attention is required after a child’s injury.

Cut or scrape? Clean the area. Seek medical attention if: ■■ Cut is dirty and unable to be cleaned.

■■ Cut is gaping.

■■ Cut has not stopped bleeding after 10 minutes of direct pressure.

■■ Cut is deep or wide on the face or head.

Suspect a strain, sprain or broken bone? Seek medical attention if: ■■ Child is in extreme pain and body weight cannot be put on the injury.

Dr. Robin Borchardt Rockford Orthopedic Associates, Ltd.

■■ Child is in extreme pain when pressure is applied on the area surrounding the injury.

■■ There is a visible deformity.

■■ (Foot or leg injury) Child is unable to walk four steps.

■■ (Neck or back injury) Call 911. Do not move the child unless he or she is in imminent danger. Movement can cause serious nerve damage.

Head injury? When a child or adult hits their head, concussion is a concern.

Ice the area and seek medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms over the next 24 hours: ■■ Loss of consciousness ■■ Vomiting ■■ Trouble balancing ■■ Blurry vision ■■ Difficulty awakening from sleep Dr. Robin Borchard is a doctor at the Rockford Orthopedics’ new Ortho Express Clinic.

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

Website a ‘one-stop-shop’ on health care law for businesses The federal government launched Business.USA.gov/healthcare, a centralized, “one-stop” platform to make it easier for businesses to see how the new Affordable Care Act affects them.

The site includes a web-based tool that allows employers to get tailored information on how the health law affects them based on business size, location and plans for offering health benefits to their workers next year.

Information includes ■■ tax credits for small businesses to make coverage affordable and measures to help slow the growth of health care costs.

■■ a timeline of key implementation dates.

■■ information about the SHOP Marketplaces and small business tax credits.

■■ resources to help calculate a firm’s number of full-time equivalent employees or determine if the coverage they already offer meets the law’s minimum value standards.

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September 2013 theVoice rockfordchamber.com

FOCUS ON HEALTHCARE AND WELLNESS SERVICES

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

Give yourself the gift of water physical stress on many of our body systems, such as the nervous, circulatory and digestive systems.

The Source of Life Fatigue, constipation, moodiness and irritability. Any of these symptoms sound familiar? Most of us can relate to at least one of these symptoms throughout the year and most especially during stressful times at home or work and when traveling. Although stress is a normal part of life, physically, over time, our bodies can really take a beating.

We can control the affects it has on us by simply being aware of the effect our habits have on us. We have tendencies to eat foods that are not typical to our normal daily routine, such as less fiber or more fat. We consume more alcoholic, sugary or caffeinated beverages, sleep less, stress more, and exercise less or not at all. This all can lead to significant

Water is the main source of life. The fact is that our human bodies are 75 percent water; our brains 60 percent. Almost every bodily function is dependent on the efficient flow of water through our system. Think of water as the “highway” and everything we put into our bodies as the cars. The nutrients in food, medications and the chemicals produced from daily reactions all are reliant on the quality of the flow in the transportation system that is the fluid of our bodies. Yet we do not store water.

So, we need to replace it on a daily basis or we go into “drought management,” which is our body’s way of doling out water to the most

We need to replace water on a daily basis or we go into “drought management,” which is our body’s way of doling out water to the most important parts and letting the others suffer. important parts and letting the others suffer. We know the heart is the pump that is necessary to direct the flow and delivery of oxygen-rich blood. But we know that if the pipes get clogged up, the pump will not be as efficient or effective.

Coffee, soda and juice can NOT replace water. The most commonly known formula for determining the proper amount of water to drink per person is to divide your body weight by two and consume that many ounces per day. However, for most people, 60 ounces a day is sufficient. That is equal

Denise Nichols to drinking Motivate – Personal about eight, Physical Rehabilitation eight-ounces glasses of water per day, or one glass every one and a half hours or so.

Caffeinated beverages tend to pull water out of the body, and therefore you output more than you input.

Therefore, continue to enjoy your one cup of coffee but know that drinking another cup of water will help offset the effects. For those who just do not like to drink water, try to drink sips at the top of every hour. This can help create a new routine that will improve over time.

Just like breathing, water is essential to a healthy and happy lifestyle. So don’t forget to give yourself a simple, inexpensive gift every day. … The gift of water.

Denise Nichols, OTR/L, BCB-PMD, represents Motivate – Personal Physical Rehabilitation.

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

18

FOCUS ON HEALTHCARE AND WELLNESS SERVICES

September 2013 theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Business Briefs in Healthcare BUSINESS BRIEFS

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

The National Center for Rural Health Professions at University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford collaborated with Harrisburg Medical Center, Harrisburg, Ill., in a new Rural Medical Education Program and Rural Pharmacy. The hospital will train fourth year RMED/RPHARM students during a 16-week rural preceptorship, which includes a community-oriented health project.

Rock River Valley Blood Center received a two-year AABB accreditation for donor center activities based on an intensive three-day, on-site assessment.

Rockford Orthopedic Associates, Ltd., opened Ortho Express Clinic, 5875 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, for urgent injury care without an appointment. Staffed with on-site bone and joint specialists, the clinic offers radiology, MRI, splinting and casting, and therapy.

SwedishAmerican Medical Group/Lundholm Orthopedics celebrated the 100th anniversary of Lundholm Orthopedics. Founding doctor Joseph S. Lundholm invented a special screw to join

Dr. Joseph S. Lundholm (right) examines a patient.

broken hip bones and speed up recovery times. The Lundholm Surgical Lag Screw was an improvement on earlier practices, in which doctors nailed broken hips back together. Dr. Lundholm perfected his special hip screw in 1949 and received a patent for it in 1951. He had a local metalworking company make the screws and installation tools and sold them through the Rockford Surgical Equipment Company. The device eventually became an industry standard.

Rosecrance Health Network had its accreditation renewed for another three years by The Joint Commission, signifying that all operations meet the highest health care standards for treatment of individuals with substance use and mental health disorders.

SwedishAmerican Health System was recognized as one of the nation’s Most Wired, according to the 2013 Most Wired Survey.

Winners were featured in the July issue of H&HN. Visit www.hhnmag.com.

Packaging Coordinators Inc., a national pharmaceutical contract packaging firm, announced investments in its nine Rockford facilities after four years of significant growth. Since 2012, the company has hired 160 employees for more than 1,300 in the area. Plans include more hiring and expansion of its machine capacity, warehousing and facilities infrastructure to support growth in its blister packaging and bottling lines for prescription and overthe-counter medications, as well as biotech and investigational medicines.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

FOCUS ON HEALTHCARE AND WELLNESS SERVICES

September 2013

Local organizations awarded grants to enroll participants in new

PPACA health care plan Winnebago County Health Department received $750,000 as one of 44 community-based organizations in Illinois funded to enroll people in the Illinois Health Insurance Marketplace. Enrollment begins on Oct. 1 with coverage to start Jan. 1, 2014.

Funds cover the start-up costs and the first year of operations of the Marketplace, as well as in training staffers to educate consumers about the the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) or “Obamacare,” and their health care options.

“We know that there is a great need for affordable health coverage in Winnebago County, and we look forward to working with our partners to help educate the public about the options that will be available through the Marketplace,” said Mike Bacon, WCHD public health administrator.

“We know that many of those who are eligible for subsidized coverage through the PPACA have never, or rarely, had access to comprehensive health coverage,” said Jennifer Koehler, Marketplace director. “Our goal is to help them make decisions about what kind of health care coverage best suits their needs. We have a big job to do between now and Oct. 1 in terms of educating our target population about the opportunities for quality coverage available to them through the Health Insurance Marketplace.”

Marketplace will be accessed through a website where individuals, families and small businesses will compare health care policies and

premiums to purchase their health coverage.

Those

with

income

between 138 percent and 400 percent of the federal poverty level will receive subsidies on a sliding scale.

Partners in this effort include: OSF

Saint

Anthony

Medical

Center, Rockford Health System, SwedishAmerican Health System, Rock

Valley

College,

Lifescape

Community Services, United Way of Rock River Valley, Rockford Health Council, YWCA Rockford, City of Rockford Human Services, La Voz Latina, and TASC, Inc.

Crusader to Enroll People in The Marketplace Nationwide, Health and Human Services has awarded $150 million to 1,159 community health centers to hire 2,900 outreach and eligibility assistance workers to assist millions of persons nationwide with enrollment into the new health coverage options under the PPACA. Rockford-based

theFranaGroup

announced that clients in Illinois and Kentucky received a total of $344,457 in funds for these new workers, including

Crusader

Community

Health in Rockford, which received $151,128 for new outreach and enrollment staff. Staff will take three days

of

comprehensive

training

on the availability of plans offered through the new online Marketplace, and will enroll people during the eligibility period from Oct. 1, 2013 to March 31, 2014.

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September 2013

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

the News IN Members THEin NEWS

1. John Saunders

2. Julie Yock

3. Michelle Matthys

4. Diane Reinhold

5. Grant McCarty

6. Linda M. Sandquist

7. Glendon Burress, M.D.

8. Katrina Nguyen, M.D.

9. Eugene Vortia, M.D.

10. Eileen Arnold

11. Kate Sullivan

12. Jen Lancaster

13. Kyle T. Anderson

14. Tanisha Kennard

15. Damian Czechorski

16. Jan Ohlander

BOARD APPOINTMENTS, RETIREMENTS

Dr. Dennis Harezlak, former Winnebago School District superintendent and educator, was named to board of Kantorei, The Singing Boys of Rockford.

Lisa Normoyle, art teacher, Rockford Public Schools, was named to the Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois board.

Trustee Mary Tuite was named Rock Valley College’s liaison to the Illinois Community College Trustees Association, created to provide community college advocacy.

YWCA of Rockford welcomed two new members to its board: Amanda Shank, UTC Aerospace Systems, and Lori Sweeney, Rockford Police Department.

Community Foundation of Northern Illinois appointed new Board of Trustees: Cheryl Balsam, Hyzer, Hyzer & Jacobs (retired); Chris Janke, Ticomix, Inc.; William Reilly, II, Reilly Law Offices; Mike White, Waterside Advisors, and Jonathan Whitlock, Crosby Land Company.

John Saunders (1), principal, Larson & Darby Group, is chairman for the Rockford Area Economic Development Council’s Business Retention and Solutions Team.

NEW HIRES, PROMOTIONS, RETIREMENTS

Rockford Bank & Trust hired Bruce Vandegrift as vice president and wealth advisor.

Rockford Health System hired Julie Yock (2) as a senior marketing and public relations specialist.

the office manager and client services coordinator in the Madison office.

River District Association hired Therese Rowinski as part-time director of development.

Community Foundation of Northern Illinois promoted Jon Bates to executive vice president.

First National Bank and Trust Company hired Michelle Matthys (3) as assistant vice president and commercial banking officer.

United Way of Rock River Valley appointed Linda M. Sandquist (6) as vice president.

University of Illinois Extension hired extension educators to its northern Illinois staff, Diane Reinhold (4) programming and resources, nutrition and wellness, and Grant McCarty (5), local foods and small farms programming.

Rockford Health System added three physicians to practice alongside David Deutsch, M.D., in pediatric gastroenterology at Rockford Health Physicians: Glendon Burress, M.D. (7); Katrina Nguyen, M.D. (8), and Eugene Vortia, M.D. (9).

Savant Capital Management hired Brent Bell as a paraplanner, Morgann Durham as human resource coordinator, Jessie Haddad as an administrative assistant, Deidra Hayes as front office receptionist, Lisa Morig as an executive assistant, Mark Pniak as trader, Julie Saez-Gimeno as financial planning/tax assistant, Christy Von Rotz as an accountant, and Nicole Wood as an administrative support assistant in the Rockford office. Ann Burlingame was hired as a client services assistant in the Freeport office, and Amy Buzza as

EMPLOYEE/COMMUNITY RECOGNITIONS, AWARDS

Eileen Arnold (10), engineer, UTC Aerospace Systems, was inducted as a Fellow of the International Council on Systems Engineering, one of only 64 individuals since its formation in 1990.

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau named the It’s A Great Day in Rockford Service Award winners for June: Kate Sullivan (11), owner, Kate’s Pie Shop, and Jen Lancaster (12), owner, Bath and Body Fusion.

Todd Weegens, an owner at Fehr-

Graham & Associates, received the Illinois Award from the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers.

Kyle T. Anderson (13), vice-president, A. W. Anderson Agency, Inc., attained the designation of Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC).

Julie Schildgen, academic chair and professor of graphic arts technology, Rock Valley College, received the Academic Educator 2013 Printing Industries of America Education Award of Excellence.

Tanisha Kennard (14), power electronics engineer, UTC Aerospace Systems, was featured in the Minority Engineer magazine.

Geoff Feinblatt, general manager of Napleton AutoWerks, Rockford and Loves Park, was named one of the 40 Top Achievers Under Age 40 in Crains’s Automotive News.

Damian Czechorski (15), financial representative at Williams-Manny, was named to the 2013 Million Dollar Round Table association of financial professionals.

Jan Ohlander (16), partner at Reno & Zahm, was named to the Top 10 Downstate Consumer Lawyers in Illinois by Leading Lawyers magazine for the third year.

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September 2013

the News IN Members THEin NEWS

17. Kelly Eickstead

18. Maria Salinas

19. James Rozinsky

20. Julie Burfoot

Kathy Weber was appointed the new managing director for BMO Private Bank in Chicago, where she will lead a team of wealth advisors, private bankers and portfolio managers. Weber has more than 30 years of financial services experience and has been managing BMO Private Bank’s team of wealth management professionals in Rockford for more than a decade. She led the private banking operations for all of AMCORE Bank.

Dan Barron is the new managing director, BMO Private Bank, Rockford. Barron has 30 years of financial services experience, including 17 years at BMO Financial Group.

21. Brenda Ziegler

22. Brian Bear, M.D.

OF GENERAL INTEREST

Kelly Eickstead (17), vice president and marketing manager for wealth management at Riverside Community Bank, will host “Making Cents” on the WREX-Channel 13 newscast, Thursday nights at 6 p.m.

Rockford area vocalist, Vince Chiarelli, released a collection of popular Italian music, “Play, Play Guitar,” originally written and recorded by late Rockford musician/songwriter/ businessman, Vincent Chiarelli.

Dr. Philip Schalow, chiropractor, Alexander Technique specialist and

23. Patricia Johnson Miner owner of 1st Step Chiropractic, was guest presenter at the Summer Strings Festival at Eureka College in June. He has been invited to present at the 2013 International Research and Philosophy Symposium in Spartanburg, S.C., in October on “Chiropractic Management of Overuse Syndrome in a Violist.”

Maria Salinas (18), Spectrum Insurance Agency, attended a seminar on “Management & Leadsership Skills for Managers or Supervisors.” James Rozinsky (19) and Julie Burfoot (20) attended “Private Healthcare Exchanges

Conference: Helping Employers Dive in to the Private Exchange Market” in July. Brenda Ziegler (21) attended “Employment & Labor Law for Illinois Employers” in August.

Brian Bear, M.D. (22), Rockford Orthopedic Associates, Ltd., presented at one of St. Marianna University and School of Medicine’s hospitals in Tokyo on “Minimally Invasive Arthroscopic Thumb Surgery and on Traumatic Elbow Instability” in July. Scott Trenhaile, M.D., presented three lectures at the 30thannual San Diego Shoulder Institute’s Course Meeting: Arthroscopy,

Arthroplasty, Fractures in June.

John Frana, president of theFranaGroup, a healthcare consulting firm based in Rockford, presented a session about revenue alternatives available to Federally Qualified Health Centers at the Michigan Primary Care Association Annual Conference in August.

Journal of Neuroscience Nursing published research from Patricia Johnson Miner (23), DHSc, pediatric nurse practitioner in child and adolescent neurology at Rockford Health System.

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September 2013

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Guest Perspective INSIGHT Hispanic Heritage Month: Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, 2013 In Sept. 1968, Congress authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim National Hispanic Heritage Week. The observance was expanded in 1989 by Congress to a month-long celebration. Sept. 15 was chosen as the starting point as the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile also celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, respectively.

53 million

The Hispanic population in the United States as of July 1, 2012, making people of Hispanic origin the nation’s largest ethnic or racial minority -- 17 percent of the nation’s population.

128.8 million is the projected Hispanic population of the

United States in 2060 --31 percent of the nation’s population.

#2 Second

As of 2010, only Mexico (112 million) had a larger Hispanic population than the United States (50.5 million).

Eight states

had a population of 1 million or more Hispanic residents in 2012 — Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New York and Texas.

37.6 million

U.S. residents 5 and older spoke Spanish at home in 2011.

8.4%

of voters in the 2012 presidential election were Hispanic.

14.5%

of students (both undergraduate and graduate students) enrolled in college in 2011 were Hispanic.

22.5%

of elementary and high school students were Hispanic in 2011.

65%

of Hispanic-origin people in the United States were of Mexican background in 2011.

2.3 million

Hispanic-owned businesses in 2007, up 43.6 percent from 2002.

Another 9.4 percent were of Puerto Rican background, 3.8 percent Salvadoran, 3.6 percent Cuban, 3.0 percent Dominican and 2.3 percent Guatemalan.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Hispanic Heritage Month

Promoting progress for Latinos Celebrating its 42nd year of service, La Voz Latina is the largest multi-service Hispanic organization in northwestern Illinois.

For Veronica Garcia, the programs offered by La Voz Latina have empowered her to make better, more informed decisions. Garcia came to La Voz Latina with hopes of learning communication skills to navigate raising two boys of different ages. “Creating a strong family is key to building a healthy and productive community,” she said.

“It’s important to educate myself so I can have the right tools to educate my children. La Voz Latina helped me understand how essential education is to breaking down the barriers between children and parents.”

Celebrating its 42nd year of service, La Voz Latina is the largest multiservice Hispanic organization in northwestern Illinois. The agency’s purpose, to act as a liaison between the Hispanic community and all local service organizations and institutions, creates programs and services that fill unmet needs. More than 6,000 people are annually served through La Voz Latina’s 18 programs and services.

Another client, Gabriela*, has been a participant in many of La Voz Latina’s programs, having first come to its Family Advocacy Center last fall. The center provides parental case management including but not limited to counseling, referrals, education and other services, with the ultimate goal of family reunification. As part of her ongoing case management, Gabriela has been able to receive oneon-one counseling, parenting classes, housing assistance, support obtaining a U Visa (a residency visa for victims of violence) and support in treatment and stabilization of her mental health condition.

“My psychologist (case manager) is practically my family. I am in the United States on my own and was blessed to

Luz Ramirez LaVoz Latina

have been referred to La Voz Latina by DCFS. Since I started coming (to La Voz) over a year ago, I no longer feel alone. I have had many problems and my case manager has been there supporting me every step of the way,” shared Gabriela.

“For me, La Voz is a place where I know I will always have support and they will have my best interest in mind.”

Current La Voz Latina programs include after-school and summer youth programs; college preparation and scholarship programs; English language, citizenship preparation classes; job counseling, training and placement; health education for parents; health fairs; home visiting and support services for pregnant and parenting teens, neighborhood development, and small business counseling.

La Voz Latina also helps institutions and businesses overcome cultural and language barriers with their Spanish speaking patients, clients and customers.

Trained staff provides interpretations and document translations, specializing in medical and legal translation.

The staff has also developed and delivered Spanish classes and cultural competency presentations to businesses and nonprofits.

Those impacted by the services provided by La Voz are quick to offer a perspective on how the resources provided by the agency impact lives.

Garcia shares, “I am thankful to La Voz Latina and the instructors for helping to educate and inform those of us who are eager to learn new ideas and strategies.

It’s inspiring to see the healthy changes that have occurred as I continue to incorporate what I’ve learned into my daily life.” *Name has been changed due to sensitivity of subject matter.

Luz Ramirez is executive director of La Voz Latina.

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

LA VOZ LATINA ANNUAL RECOGNITION BANQUET Sept. 19, 5 p.m.

Giovanni’s Banquet & Convention Center 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford

During Hispanic Heritage Month, the event honors individuals and organizations that contribute to the local Latino community. Proceeds provide college scholarships to high school graduates annually.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

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September 2013

IGNITE

Young Professionals

Showing students all they can be

Volunteer for the 2013 Academy Expo In his 1961 inaugural address, President John F. Kennedy famously proclaimed, “Ask not what your country can do for you -- ask what you can do for your country.” This was an obvious call to action for the American public; a request to initiate change.

Although times are different and more than a half century has passed, Rockford recognizes the need for change. Perhaps the effort to make change is most evident within our school district. Along with the partnership of volunteer-driven Alignment Rockford, Rockford Public Schools has adopted an academy model for its high schools to help create career pathways for the area’s youth.

Volunteering for the 2013 Academy Expo would make you an integral part of Rockford Public Schools’ high school redesign.

Jessica Koltz IGNITE

professionals in the

Rockford

area. In fact, IGNITE highlights many of these forums in our Spotlight weekly newsletter. But volunteering for the 2013 Academy Expo would make you an integral part of RPS’ high school redesign. You could be a role model to eager 9th, 10th and 11th grade attendees who are trying to figure out their next steps in life. We were all there not that long ago! You can help define what it means to be a productive, successful, young professional.

Many of you may be concerned whether or not you can afford to take time off for this student-centered event. You may not even have to worry because your employer may very well be one of the participating organizations.

And if you learn that your employer is involved, they may very well want you to assist with the event. But even if you work somewhere that is not involved, it

On Wednesday, Sept. 18, more than 5,000 high school students, grades 9th through 11th, will participate in the 2013 Academy Expo at BMO Harris Bank Center. This momentous event requires the support of the entire community, and would particularly benefit from the involvement of young professionals.

Four Academies The 2013 Academy Expo will introduce students to the four academies “in-action.” More than 150 careers will be demonstrated at the event -- all providing hands-on activities.

Students will get the chance to identify careers in the defined academies: BAMIT (Business, Arts, Marketing and Information Technology), EMITT (Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial and Trades Technology), HPS (Human and Public Services) and HS (Health Sciences). Along with a graded assignment, the youth also will develop a better understanding of 21st century soft skills and business acumen.

Laurie Preece, executive director of Alignment Rockford, asserts, “Students will benefit from watching how business professionals interact with one another.

Business basics like hand-shaking, introductions and casual networking will be a revelation to many students.”

Be a Role Model for Students There are many noble causes and volunteer opportunities for young

is worth asking for their support.

To

participate

as

a

student

engagement hospitality ambassador or assist with the load-in/load out of the employer participants, please complete the response form at www. alignmentrockford.com/ITPs.html.

Today we, as young professionals, have a choice: Take part in the change or watch the change happen. As Preece affirms, “It is an exciting time for the College and Career Academies of Rockford, and support from young professional

organizations,

like

IGNITE, show students what they could become in just five or 10 years.

Your example is vital to students and to our community.” We have a moral obligation to help shape the future of Rockford. Why not help impact its future leaders?

For more information contact Diane Peters, Alignment Rockford, 815-6544267 or visit www.alignmentrockford. com. For more on getting involved with IGNITE, visit www.igniterockford.com.

Jessica Koltz is professional education manager at Rasmussen College, Rockford campus, and a member of IGNITE. The views expressed are those of Koltz’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

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September 2013

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Business Briefs BUSINESS BRIEFS

celebrating more than 100 years of accomplishments.

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

Staff Management, Inc., celebrates 30 years in human resource consulting, outsourcing and projects.

Fran and John Morrissey began their business as the Midwest’s first PEO organization at the time.

John Morrissey Accountants, Inc., added Paul Mastrangeli Accounting and Tax Service to its team.

Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence at Rockford University offers a new Certificate for Nonprofit Management beginning in October.

Call 815-394-4384.

Boys and Girls Club of Rockford hired V2 Marketing Communications to redesign its corporate website at www. rockfordboysandgirlsclub.org.

Wipfli LLP ranked seventh nationwide in total assets under management, in a survey of CPA firms offering financial planning and investment advisory services conducted by Top Firms by AUM, a supplement to Accounting Today magazine.

Rockford Park District held a special dedication ceremony in July to name the dining hall at Atwood Center after the man who started camping and outdoor education programs in Rockford, Dr. Frank Lupton, Jr. Rockford Public Schools Board of Education and Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners announced a new “Teaming Up for Youth” partnership to collaborate this fall on recreational and educational programming, holistic sports programs, strategic land management/joint playground repair and replacement, and joint purchasing/leveraging tax dollars.

Woodward, Inc.’s board approved a quarterly cash dividend of $0.08 per share, payable on Sept. 3, 2013 for stockholders of record as of Aug. 20, 2013. It authorized a new stock repurchase program, under which up to $200 million in shares may be purchased in the open market and private transactions. It’s scheduled to expire in July, 2016.

Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity received a $1,000 grant from Associated Bank for

More than 100 Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful volunteers accept donations of used clothing from more than 1,550 households at its July 13 clothing drive. landscaping one new home in August. The bank sent a group of volunteers to spend a Saturday working on new homes under construction.

to identify start-up and existing minority business entrepreneurs with the potential for growth for referral and assistance into existing service networks.

PR Etc., sponsored the YMCA of Rock River Valley’s Intern Challenge, fashioned after Donald Trump’s popular television show, The Apprentice. The firm coached teams of young interns on event planning, social media strategies, effective messaging and media relations for staging a flash mob to promote YMCA at Anderson Gardens’ Tuesday Evening in the Gardens. In July, more than 90 in the flash mob danced to The Village People’s song, YMCA.

Woodward, Inc., and RinglandJohnson Construction Company hosted a Small Business Construction Expo attended by more than 100 small businesses.

Ringland-Johnson will oversee the completion of the new Rock Cut Campus in Loves Park, which could generate 1,000 new jobs.

New Mexican-American restaurant Lucha Cantina opened at Edgebrook, 1641 N. Alpine Road.

Rockford Park District’s free Therapeutic Recreation Fall 2013 Program Guide is available at Park District customer service, facilities and downloadable at www. rockfordparkdistrict.org/tr.

The Friends of the Coronado contributed $20,000 toward repairs for historic preservation at the Coronado Theatre and community programming at the Coronado Performing Arts Center.

XL Academics, Inc., was chosen as project lead for EIGERlab’s Minority Business Development project

The YMCA of Rock River Valley presented Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois with the check for $10,000 when its ticket was the last drawn in the YMCA’s COOL $10 GRAND Raffle. More than 225 tickets were sold, 10 of which were designated to Goodwill by an anonymous donor.

First Congregational Church of Beloit hired PR Etc., to oversee and manage its 175th anniversary celebration in September, and

by Southern Imperial to provide interactive teambuilding and customer service messaging workshops. Rockford Bank & Trust hired the firm to develop an integrated marketing and communications plan.

GinestraWatson produced a milestone video for OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, “Commitment to Care,”

Kantorei, The Singing Boys of Rockford, completed a tour to five cities across the Midwest and in impromptu performances at various restaurants and tourist locations, such as Navy Pier in Chicago. The group’s Caribbean Cruise Tour will take place in June of next year.

YouthBuild Rockford celebrated the graduation of 32 participants.

Its yearlong program for 16 to 24 year olds who are out of school and unemployed focuses on teaching vocational skills in construction and urban agriculture through the building of affordable housing for low-income families.

Northern Illinois University’s College of Business Rockford Club celebrated more than $13,500 raised for local students in August at the Prairie Street Brewhouse.

Visit www.cob.niu.edu/rockfordclub/ scholarshipevent2013.asp.

Tickets are on sale for TruTV’s Impractical Jokers comedy at the Coronado Performing Arts Center on Nov. 16 at 7:30 p.m. Visit the BMO Harris Bank Center box office or ticketmaster.com or call 815-9685222.

A Boeing 727 special freighter designated as “Air Horse One” operated by H.E. Tex Sutton Equine Transportation landed at Chicago Rockford International Airport with eight thoroughbred horses for The Arlington Million Race, at Arlington Park Race Track in Arlington Heights, Ill., in August.

SwedishAmerican Health System provided 11 four-year, $1,000 scholarships to employees’ children in August through its Employees’ Children Scholarship Program.

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September 2013

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

Monday, September 2 Judson University hosts a Preview Day on its Elgin (Ill.) campus, 1151 N. State St., for high school students. Visit www.

JudsonU.edu/preview or call 847625-2510.

Wednesday, September 4 Rockford Public Library presents Turning 65: Get the Facts about Medicare, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the East Branch Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. Presented by Mary Hallock, BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois.

Registration required. Call 815-9657606.

Thursday, September 5 Winnebago County CASA and CASA Kane County present the Bridges Out of Poverty Conference with Jodi Pfarr, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Radisson Hotel and Conference Center, 200 S. Bell School Road, Rockford.

Pfarr will present part two on Friday in Aurora, Ill. Visit www. winnebagocountycasa.org.

Friday, September 6 Midway Village Museum presents Midway Hits the Fairway Golf Outing, 11:30 a.m., at Aldeen Golf Club, 1902 Reid Farm Road, Rockford. Lunch until 12:30 p.m.; driving range at 12:30 p.m. Hors d’oeuvres and awards to follow.

Register at www.midwayvillage. com or 815-397-9112.

Artalé Wine Co. hosts a Wine Tasting Event, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., 6876 Spring Creek Road, Rockford to benefit the Rockford Coronado Concert Association.

Includes 30 wine varieties, and hors d’oeuvres and dessert bites from Josef-Barbados. Reservations not required. Call 815-877-9463 for questions.

Saturday, September 7 Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford, presents Twilight in the Garden: a Harvest Feast, gourmet meal of local foods prepared

by Chef Ryan Adams and wine pairings, 6 to 10 p.m. Reserve at klehm.org or call 815-965-8146.

CherryVale Mall, 7200 Harrison Ave., Ste. 5, Rockford, hosts a Home-Based Job and Product

Fair, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Visit ShopCherryValeMall.com.

Kegel Harley-Davidson Fundraiser for Winnebago County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., 7125 Harrison Ave., Rockford.

Call 815-319-6880 or visit www. winnebagocountycasa.org.

Tuesday, September 10 Rockford Park District invites hikers to Atwood Adult Hiking Club, 9 a.m., at Anna Page Park, 3102 N. Springfield Ave. Visit www. rockfordparkdistrict.org/atwood or call 815-987-8800.

Rockford Public Library hosts a Hire Me Resume Workshop, 6 to 8 p.m., Sept. 10, 17, at Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. Registration not required. Call 815-965-7606.

Savant Capital Management presents Navigating the Maze of Medicare with Tracey Fults, Williams-Manny Horizon Group, 6:15 p.m., at NIU Rockford, 8500 E. State St., Rockford. Register at www.savantcapital.com. Click newsroom, Savant events.

Wednesday, September 11 The Illinois Procurement Technical Assistance Center at Rock Valley College hosts the free workshop, Using Excel to Facilitate Estimating & Bidding, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at EIGERlab, 605 Fulton Ave., Rockford. Register at ilsbdc. ecenterdirect.com/Conferences. action or call 815-921-2091.

Dr. Neal Barnard, president of Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, presents Power Foods for the Brain, 7 p.m., at University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, 1601 Parkview Ave. Visit www.

CHIPhealth.com.

Thursday, September 12 RAMP presents its first DeKalb County Changing Attitudes Breaking Barriers Luncheon, 11:45 a.m., at The Regale Center, 124 S. California St., Sycamore, with keynote speaker Stevie Hopkins, director of Awesome at 3ELove. Call 815-968-7467 or visit www.is.gd/dekalbramp.

Northern Illinois SCORE presents the workshops, Simple Steps to Starting Your Business, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., with Vernon Wanner, SCORE, at EIGERlab, 605 Fulton Ave., Rockford. Sessions: Sept. 12 & 26, Oct. 10 & 24, Nov. 7. Register at http://bit.ly/eq8Z00.

Rasmussen College Career & Networking Expo, 1:30 to 6 p.m., Hoffman House, 7550 E. State St., Rockford. Community business panel: Interview & resume tips, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.; Career expo/ resume review & mock interviews, 3 to 6 p.m. Contact jessica.koltz@ rasmussen.edu or 815-316-4843 or visit rasmussen.edu/locations/ illinois/Rockford.

Friday, September 13 Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford, hosts a Wine Tasting & Luminary Walk, 7 to 9 p.m. Visit klehm.org or call 815-965-8146.

The Association of Fundraising Professionals-Rockford Chapter and the Northern Illinois Planned Giving Council host Philanthroculture-Understanding and Applying Cultural Differences in Fundraising with Dr. Lilya Wagner, 7:30 a.m. to noon, Northern Illinois UniversityRockford, 8500 E. State St. Register by Sept. 9 at www. afprockford.org or 815-921-4503.

Saturday, September 14 Fifth-annual Recovery Rally on the Rock for substance abuse and mental health, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Madison Street Trolley Station, Rockford. Presented by Culver’s, Rockford Park District, Rosecrance, Remedies and Heartland Community Church. Contact Kate Craig, 815-965-1106 or kcraig@ tasc.org.

Rockford Public Library hosts Emergency Preparedness Day, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Sullivan Center, 118 N. Main St. Make an emergency plan for you and your family. Take home a starter emergency kit. Registration not required. Call 815-965-7606.

Tuesday, September 17 Caraotta Chiropractic Orthopedics, 4921 E. State St., Rockford, presents its 20thannual Better Health 4 Life for the Rockford Area Pregnancy Care Center. For a donation of $20 a person; $30 per family, all chiropractic-orthopedic services are free. Call 815-398-4004.

Thursday, September 19 La Voz Latina presents its Annual Recognition Banquet, celebrating 42 years, 5 p.m., at Giovanni’s Restaurant and Conference Center, 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford.

Visit www.lavozlatina-rkfd.org or call 815-965-5784.

CASA at Casey’s Pub Fundraiser for Winnebago County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), 5:30 to 9 p.m., 7307 N. Alpine Road, Loves Park.

Call 815-319-6880or visit www. winnebagocountycasa.org.

Judson University School of Leadership and Business hosts an Enrollment Meeting, 6 to 7 p.m., 1055 Featherstone Road, Rockford. Geared towards busy adults seeking undergraduate and graduate degrees. RSVP to Kathleen.Siedenburg@info.judsonu. edu or 815-209-6939.

Saturday, September 21 Rockford Symphony Orchestra, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, celebrates Opening Night with soprano Kathy Pyeatt, 6:30 p.m.

Tickets at 815-965-0049 or www. rockfordsymphony.com.

Midway Village Museum hosts World War II Days, Sat., 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford.

Midwest’s largest reenactment with more than 1,000 re-enactors. For tickets visit www.midwayvillage. com or call 815-397-9112.

Monday, September 23 The Rockford Park District hosts its Golf Hall of Fame Play Day and Induction Ceremony Dinner for the 2013 Golf Hall of Fame. Call 815-987-8854 or daveclaeyssens@ rockfordparkdistrict.org.

Tuesday, September 24 Northern Illinois SCORE presents the workshop, Supercharging Your Facebook Marketing, 6 to 8:30 p.m., with Tammy Finch, Constant Contact, at EIGERlab, 605 Fulton Ave., Rockford. Register at http:// bit.ly/130vJ3M.

Saturday, September 28 An Evening with Clutch Cargo … A Party with a Purpose, 7 to 11 p.m., Cliffbreakers Riverside Resort, 700 W. Riverside Blvd., Rockford. Fundraiser for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and Siena on Brendenwood. For tickets, call 815-399-6167 or visit www.sienaonbrendenwood.org.

Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence at Rockford University presents Governance as Leadership: Discover New Possibilities with a Generative Board, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., 5050 E. State St. Visit www.rockford. edu/?NICNE or call 815-394-4384.

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theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Member Profile PROFILE

(Above) Justin Schroeder, seinior director, marketing and development services.

(Left): PCI supplies packaged drugs to 19 of the top 20 pharmaceutical companies in the world.

By Paul Anthony Arco Perhaps the best-kept secret in Rockford may be Packaging Coordinators, Inc., (PCI) one of the largest pharmaceutical packaging companies in the world.

“Traditionally, we’ve kept a low profile in the area by nature of what we do, being an outsource provider to the drug companies,” said Justin Schroeder, senior director, marketing and development services. “We’ve gone through two name changes in 18 months, so we’ve had to be a little more active in the community to make sure people know who PCI is.”

PCI is a preferred supplier to 19 of the top 20 pharmaceutical companies in the world and support very recognizable global brands. PCI has had four straight years of record sales.

The company provides the service of putting the product in the package.

“We package them and get them ready for market, and send them back to them for distribution to their pharmacies and physicians, that includes commercial medicines, prescription drugs and overthe-counter drugs and those that are still in clinical trials,” Schroeder said.

“Products we package go to more than 100 countries around the world.”

Packaging Coordinators, Inc.

Leading the way in healthcare packaging From Local to Global PCI was founded in 1967 by John Anderson and known as Anderson Brothers and then Anderson Packaging until 2003. It was then purchased by AmerisourceBergen Corporation, a Fortune 24 drug distribution company.

In 2012, Anderson Packaging and Brecon Pharmaceuticals came together to become AndersonBrecon, a supplier of pharmaceutical commercial packaging solutions and clinical trials services.

This spring, the company was acquired by PCI, which is owned

by Frazier Healthcare, a provider of healthcare service and Biotech companies.

Following the acquisition, the company is adding equipment and facilities infrastructure, as well as hiring additional staff. “We’re still doing our due diligence and understanding the scope of the business,” Schroeder said. “We’re excited about future expansion and the global footprint of our business.”

PCI operates nine facilities in the Rockford area and a majority of the associates work at the company’s facility on Assembly Drive, in the

Rockford Industrial Park. The building was expanded in 2008 to more than 720,000 square feet.

Scattered around Rockford are other smaller facilities, which are used for segregation from the rest of the company’s pharmaceutical packaging, such as penicillin and oncology drugs.

“These are drugs that are uniquely potent, so we want to keep them separate,” Schroeder said. “Those are drugs designed to kill cells, so we need to treat them differently than other packaging.”

The company’s headquarters are located in Philadelphia, Pa., with facilities in Woodstock, Ill., and four packaging sites in Wales that handle commercial and pharmaceutical packaging, primarily for the European market.

One of Rockford’s Big Employers One of the largest employers in Rockford, PCI employs 1,300 associates, which include material handlers, process technicians, engineers, technical writers, project managers, purchasing sales and marketing, HR and many other responsibilities. “We

have associates that have been here since the early 1970s,” Schroeder said.

“It’s neat to hear them tell the story of the transformation that has taken place, from a small business to what it is today.”

The future looks bright for PCI. “With baby boomers getting older, that demographic will need more medicine,” he said. “Healthcare changes also have open up a bigger pool of people who are going to need medicine as well. The pharmaceutical business continues to grow and expand as new treatments, such as cancer therapies, rapidly expand.”

“We work on drugs which impact people’s lives,” he added. “We support life saving medicines — drugs for cancer, malaria, you name it. When you hear stories of people who’ve been helped by these drugs that we package, it really brings home what we’re trying to do.”

PACKAGING COORDINATORS, INC. Pete Belden, General Manager 4545 Assembly Dr. Rockford, IL 61109 815-484-4900 www.pciservices.com

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

27

September 2013

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

Bright ideas: Improving your bottom line with cutting edge lighting technology Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) allowed us to upgrade from massive computer monitors the size of a microwave oven to slim, light models two inches deep, and are now becoming the go-to technology to replace incandescent and fluorescent lighting.

Almost daily, manufacturers discover new innovations making LEDs even more efficient and versatile.

Let’s examine what sets this new technology apart from the previous generations of lighting products: Fragile light bulbs and fluorescent tubes hardly come to mind when you hear the word “durable.” LED products are durable in more than one sense.

First, they’re very difficult to break and even if they do break, don’t shatter like a filament bulb or fluorescent tube.

Second, they’re far more durable than old-style lighting in terms of service life.

Many LEDs carry a warranty of at least five years and/or are rated to last 50,000 hours or more. When is the last time you bought an item with a warranty longer than one or two years?

This longer life can lead to a greater

return on investment in labor costs alone. Conservatively, it can cost $2 in labor to replace a bulb. If the bulb in question is an incandescent bulb— which will last 1,500 hours at most— you’ll change it at least 33 times during the 50,000 hours an LED would last.

Using the LED would save you at least $66 per bulb before you factor in the cost of the 33 replacement bulbs or the energy used.

LEDs tend to use less energy to produce the desired amount of light because they’re not spending energy to heat a filament or charge the gas inside a bulb. In some cases, this can be quite a savings; LEDs use 81 percent less energy than halogen bulbs, for example. Plus, you may save energy in other areas. Many older light fixtures produce significant amounts of heat, which can leave your cooling systems working harder and using more power.

LEDs remain cool to the touch.

New mandates may make it impossible to use incandescents. In 2007, Congress passed the Energy Independence and Security Act, or EISA. Under EISA,

Today, LED replacement bulbs are available for everything from table lamps to ceiling and wall fixtures to exterior lighting. This includes tubular bulbs designed to fit in standard fluorescent fixtures. manufacturers are subject to new energy efficiency standards for appliances and lighting products. In the case of lighting, they’re required to produce bulbs using about 25 percent less energy than before. This is leading to a phaseout of incandescent bulbs, with 75-watt bulbs coming off the market this year and 60 and 40 watt bulbs being phased out in 2014. This leaves users with a choice of either Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL’s) or LEDs. If you have a large number of incandescent fixtures, it makes sense to change over now.

Innovative manufacturers are making LEDs more versatile than ever before, and using them for applications no one

would have Patti Thayer expected just a Thayer Lighting few years ago.

In the past, converting to LEDs often meant replacing whole lighting fixtures. Today, LED replacement bulbs are available for everything from table lamps to ceiling and wall fixtures to exterior lighting.

This includes tubular bulbs designed to fit in standard fluorescent fixtures.

LED bulbs and fixtures which change color can increase efficiency while providing the same dramatic effects in stage lighting and other applications that incandescent once did.

The revolutionary changes in lighting technology make this the perfect time to assess your lighting needs and costs and make the changes that will improve your bottom line.

Patti Thayer is owner of Thayer Lighting, Inc. The views expressed are those of Thayer’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

28

Knockout Crime Continued from page 4

neighborhoods. Officers are knocking on doors (1300 doors to date), building relationships and creating a sense of familiarity within local neighborhoods.

The goal of this program is to establish a comfort level with residents so if there is an issue in a neighborhood such as a suspicious vehicle parked on the street for a long period of time, there will be no hesitation for local residents to let law enforcement know about it.

The “Sheriff’s Take Home Squad Car” program is also helping keep neighborhoods safer. With this program, deputies and officers are now able to drive their patrol cars home when their shifts are over.

While on the surface this may not appear to be significant, it accomplishes several objectives. It leads to an increase presence of officers in neighborhoods simply because of each squad car parked outside an officer’s home, making it readily visible for all to see, helping deter criminal activity nearby. Officers are also able to increase their working hours and presence on the road by driving a patrol car to and from work each day.

With this initiative, we’ve added the equivalent of 2.5 full time officers over the course of a year.

Watch Out For Your Neighbors Neighborhood Watch groups are

September 2013 crucial to the success in knocking out crime. We’re currently looking at any gaps in coverage of Neighborhood Watch groups countywide and increasing the effectiveness and communications of already existing groups.

We’ve also increased accessibility to information on Neighborhood Watch groups through our website, www.

KnockOutCrime.com. Residents can search by address for neighborhood watch groups near them.

You can also find information on how to officially start a neighborhood watch group in your area. You can even view a map showing all recent criminal activity that has occurred in a specific neighborhood, updated approximately every 24 hours.

These programs and initiatives have only just begun to scratch the surface of the efforts we’ve taken and those to come in fighting crime in our county.

Though it is no secret we’ve experienced an increase in crime over the years, it isn’t too late to do something about it.

That’s why we must continue to work together to Knock Out Crime! Join the fight at www.knockoutcrime.com. n Scott Christiansen is Winnebago County Board Chairman.

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

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

October 4 is Manufacturing Day Collaboration to promote a great career path Where else can you get the business community, the education community, and media partners together for the benefit of our future – the youth of the Rockford region?

The City of Rockford and the region has an outstanding reputation for manufacturing. This is our opportunity to show the nation that manufacturing in the Rockford region is progressive and ready to educate the future (high school youth) on an excellent career path. This is a great opportunity for parties to collaborate on a key project.

Collaboration is a term thrown around a lot in this region. National Manufacturing Day is a true sign of collaboration. Where else can you get the business community, the education community, and media partners together for the benefit of our future – the youth of the Rockford region?

Seeking 50 or More Companies to Participate Manufacturing Day is a nationwide event coordinated and coproduced by the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association, International – headquartered in Rockford, in collaboration with NAM, the Manufacturing Institute, and the NISTMEP program of the Department of Commerce. Manufacturers are encouraged to open their doors on this day for tours or open houses for high school students to learn about the opportunities in the local manufacturing industry. This valuable form of communication will address,

Let your

Voice be heard!

in a coordinated effort, common misperceptions about manufacturing and demonstrate what it is – and what it isn’t. Much focus will be placed on advanced technologies in manufacturing and how that can provide an appealing career choice for our youth.

The Rockford Area Economic Development Council, Alignment Rockford and the Rockford Chamber of Commerce are partnering as endorsers of this second-annual event.

Last year, the Rockford Region had 15 manufacturers and six high schools on the tour. For 2013, we’d like to see engagement from 50 companies and more of the schools within Winnebago and Boone Counties.

Two Key Points About This Activity ■■ It’s a means of addressing the skilled labor shortage by reaching out to and connecting with future generations; and taking charge of the public image of manufacturing.

■■ It’s a chance to share your company’s story with people outside of the industry.

Oct. 4 will be a rallying point for a growing movement among manufacturers in approaching their communities and students with the conversation about the current challenges and advantages of the industry. It also will create awareness for the role companies can play to help local manufacturing thrive and prosper.

For more information about the event or how to get involved, visit www. mfgday.org or contact Vee Jevremovic, Rockford Chamber of Commerce, at vjevremovic@rockfordchamber.com or 815-316-4337.

We w ­ elcome submissions for The VOICE—deadline is the 15th of the month preceding p ­ ublication. Send news releases and other items of interest to the business community to: The VOICE / Rockford Chamber of Commerce 308 W. State St., Ste. 190 • Rockford, IL 61101

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

29

September 2013

Guest Perspective INSIGHT

Data security: Not someone else’s problem Act decisively to protect your business Credit cards are easy for consumers; but can cause severe economic injury to businesses unprepared for a credit card data breach. As hackers become more sophisticated at unlawfully accessing credit card data stored on businesses’ computer systems, the number of lawsuits filed against businesses related to data security breaches has mushroomed.

Is your business prepared?

Liability for Data Breaches As consumers and businesses increasingly turn to computers and the Internet for their every need, federal and state authorities have enacted legislation that limits consumer liability for fraudulent charges and transactions on their credit and debit cards. For example, the Electronic Fund Transfer Act limits a consumer’s credit card liability to $50 if a consumer promptly notifies their card issuer of fraudulent activity. However, little has been done to limit businesses’ exposure to fraudulently used credit cards.

A business has at least two main areas of liability exposure after a data breach. The first is from the credit card companies themselves, along with financial institutions that issue and/or process credit card payments. The five largest credit card brands have come together to form the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Counsel (PCI DSS). The PCI DSS promulgates minimally acceptable security measures applicable to businesses for the purposes of protecting credit card and debit card information. The PCI DSS security measures include certain procedures for maintaining cardholder confidentiality, minimum network security measures and standards regarding how long cardholder

information should be maintained.

Card issuers often require businesses to abide by PCI DSS standards prior to the business being able to accept the particular card brand. Businesses accepting credit and debit cards should be aware that failure to abide by PCI DSS standards could lead to fines and penalties assessed by a card brand against a noncompliant business in the event of a data security breach.

Your bank also may pursue your business in the event of a data breach.

Financial institutions generally participate in payment networks run by credit card companies that facilitate payment to financial institutions for credit and debit card purchases.

Financial institutions in turn sign licensing agreements and then are considered “issuers” or “acquirers” of credit and debit cards. A retail business that accepts credit cards generally will have a written agreement with issuing and acquiring banks that obligate the business, at a minimum, to comply with PCI DSS standards. Such contracts further often require the business to indemnify the acquiring bank for any liability imposed on the banks by the credit card companies.

Businesses also have exposure from claims brought directly by customers whose credit or debit card information has been compromised. In the event of a data breach, Illinois businesses must comply with the Personal Information Protection Act (Act). Under the act, most Illinois businesses are considered “data collectors” who must comply with certain notification requirements.

For purposes of the act, “breach” means the unauthorized acquisition of computerized data that compromises the security, confidentiality or integrity of personal information maintained

by the data collector.

Troy E. Haggestad Daniel A. Huntley “Personal information” WilliamsMcCarthy LLP WilliamsMcCarthy LLP means an individual’s name in combination with any one ■■ Regularly upgrade and update or more data elements, which computer hardware and software. include credit or debit card numbers.

If a business owns or licenses ■■ Have a written plan for what steps consumer data, it must notify the business needs to take should digital consumers in the event of a data disaster strike. Having a plan before security breach. Ownership or licensing of consumer data typically is limited to the business enters crisis mode makes card issuers or acquiring banks, though responding easier in the heat of the if your business’ name appears on the card, you may be an owner or licensee.

If the business does not own or license the consumer data that unlawfully has been acquired, it must notify the owner or licensee of the data, which generally is the credit card company or financial institution issuing credit or debit cards to consumers. While notification may be delayed at the request of a law enforcement investigation, a business’s failure to notify consumers subjects the business to liability under the Illinois Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act, which can lead to the award of punitive damages and attorney fees, not to mention creating a public relations nightmare.

moment.

Prepare Your Business

and reporting agencies, and the law

In preparing for a data breach, consider the following suggestions:

data breach.

■■ Ensure your computer systems are in compliance with the PCI DSS standards for the payment cards that your business accepts.

■■ Engage a digital forensics firm to conduct regular audits of the business’s computer systems. The cost of regular audits will more than pay for itself in prevention. Being digitally compliant is not a one-time occurrence: businesses need regular audits by a trusted company.

■■ Finally, insurance

consider for

cyber

purchasing crime.

Such

insurance policies often cover legal and forensic service costs, notification expenses, along with third party defense and liability expenses in the event of claims made related to the data breach.

Businesses must be prepared to act decisively. Once a data breach occurs, a business may be obligated to notify those customers affected as soon as possible. The notification may need to include contact information for the company spokesperson, the credit card brand affected, credit monitoring enforcement agency investigating the

Troy

E.

Haggestad

WilliamsMcCarthy

LLP’s

practices

in

Commercial

Litigation and Business Law Groups (contact 815-987-8900 or thaggestad@wilmac.com) and Daniel A. Huntley in the Corporate Law Group (contact 815-987-8980 or dhuntley@ wilmac.com).

The views expressed are those of Haggestad’s and Huntley’s and do not necessarily reflect those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

30

September 2013

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Use street sense: It’s common sense The Federal Trade Commission offers tips to prevent becoming a victim of crime. More crime tips can be found at www.winnebagosheriff.com.

the vehicle in front of you when you’re stopped at a light or stop sign. If anyone approaches your vehicle in a threatening manner, pull away.

The Basics

Road Rage

■■ Whenever you are on the street, in an office building or shopping mall, driving, waiting for a bus or subway, stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings.

People are losing their lives on the highway every day because of “road rage.”

A majority of drivers get angry when someone cuts them off or tailgates them.

About 70 percent of drivers get angry at slow drivers. Violent incidents on the roads recorded by police have increased 51 percent over the past five years.

■■ Send the message that you’re calm, confident and know where you’re going.

■■ Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uneasy, avoid the person or place or leave.

■■ Know the neighborhoods where you live and work. Check out the locations of police and fire stations, public telephones, hospitals, restaurants or stores that are open early and late.

On Foot – Day and Night ■■ Stick to well lighted, well traveled streets. Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots or alleys.

■■ Don’t flash large amounts of cash or other tempting targets like expensive jewelry or clothing.

■■ Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket, not a back pocket.

■■ Try to use automated teller machines in the daytime. Have your card in hand and don’t approach the machine if you’re uneasy about people nearby. Use drive up ATMs or ones located inside stores.

■■ Don’t wear shoes or clothing that restrict your movements.

■■ Don’t allow someone to draw you into a test of wills on the highway. If someone is tailgating you, pull into the slow lane and let them pass. Don’t tailgate others or cut them off in traffic. Don’t drive in the passing lane.

■■ Don’t take traffic problems personally.

■■ Avoid eye contact with an aggressive driver.

■■ Don’t make obscene gestures. Use your horn sparingly, as a warning, not an outburst.

■■ Reduce stress by allowing ample time for your trip and creating a relaxing environment in your car.

■■ Driving is a cooperative activity. If you’re aggressive, you may find other drivers trying to slow you down or get in your way.

■■ If you witness aggressive driving, stay out of the way and contact authorities when you can. Consider carrying a cellular phone in your car to contact police in the event of an encounter with an aggressive driver.

■■ Have your car or house key in hand before you reach the door.

On Buses and Subways

■■ If you think someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street.

Walk toward an open store, restaurant or lighted house. If you’re scared, yell for help.

■■ Stay alert! Don’t doze or daydream.

■■ Have to work late? Make sure there are others in the building, and ask someone – a colleague or security guard – to walk or drive you to your car or transit stop.

On Wheels ■■ Keep your car in good running condition. Make sure there’s enough gas to get where you’re going and back.

■■ Always roll up the windows and lock car doors when you drive and when you park, even if you’re coming right back.

Check inside and outside the car before getting in.

■■ Avoid parking in isolated areas. Be especially alert in lots and underground parking garages. Note the location of exits or emergency phones.

■■ If you think someone is following you, don’t head home. Drive to the nearest police or fire station, gas station or other open business to get help.

■■ Don’t pick up hitchhikers. Don’t hitchhike. Period.

■■ Leave enough space to pull around

■■ Use well lighted, busy stops.

■■ If someone harasses you, don’t be embarrassed. Loudly say, “Leave me alone.” If that doesn’t work, hit the emergency device.

■■ Watch who gets off with you. If you feel uneasy, walk directly to a place where there are other people.

If Someone Tries to Rob You or Take Your Car ■■ Don’t resist. Give up your property; don’t give up your life.

■■ Report the crime to the police. Try to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions can help prevent others from being victims.

BEWARE OF THE “BUMP AND ROB.” It works like this: A car rear ends or bumps you in traffic. You get out to check the damage and the drive or one of the passengers jumps into your car and drives off.

Look around before you get out; make sure other cars are around. If you are uneasy, stay in the car and insist on moving to a busy place or police station.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

31

September 2013

Members Caught on Digital ON DIGITAL

Rockford Public Schools held a Good Morning Rockford! on Aug. 20 for renovations and a presentation of the academy being launched at Jefferson High School, 4145 Samuelson Road, to prepare students for college and careers.

Ceremonial ribbon donated by SERVPRO of Rockford.

American Resource Management Group, LLC, held a ribbon cutting on Aug. 20 at 6785 Weaver Road, Ste. 1C, Rockford.

It’s a brand new look for the J-Hawkís library. The upgraded learning environment includes new furniture, carpeting and wall art.

Forest City Gear Co., held a ribbon cutting on July 26 for Roscoe Works, a 8,500-squarefoot subsidiary company near its headquarters at 11715 Main St., Roscoe.

Newly constructed offices of the four College & Career Academies: Business, Arts, Marketing and Information; Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial and Trades Technology; Health Sciences; and Human and Public Services.

Members of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council gave tours during Good Morning Rockford. (l to r) Erkan Bertram, Jocelyn James, Jazzmine Craigs-Ingram, Diana Pacheco, Sadie Fitch, Sofia Klaung, Selina Pineschi, and Raven Ross.

Harlem Community Center held a groundbreaking for its new Hand-n-Hand Child Care Center, 9350 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park, on July 25. The center is slated for completion next spring.

Entre Computer Solutions held a Business After Hours on Aug. 8 at 8900 N. 2nd St., Machesney Park, in celebration of its 30th anniversary.

September 2013 Member Anniversaries

Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois held a ribbon cutting on Aug. 9 for its new preGED program, GoodGRADS, at 615 N. Longwood St., Rockford. US Congressman Adam Kinzinger (fifth from left) was special guest for this event.

Thank you to the members who celebrate their anniversaries with the Rockford Chamber in September, 2013.

20-YEAR MEMBERS

10-YEAR MEMBERS

Metallic Bonds, Ltd. Rockford Area Hotel-Motel Association

Gary W. Anderson Architects Lexxon Networks, Inc.

15-YEAR MEMBERS

Family Home Health and Hospice

Briargate Management, LLC Crystal Precision Drilling, Inc. Nutritional Works, Inc. Pathfinder Wealth Management, Inc. QPS Employment Group Rockford Rigging

5-YEAR MEMBER

Applebee’s Restaurant held a ribbon cutting on Aug. 15 at 1675 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford.

32

September 2013

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

Regional, National Indicators THE ECONOMY Population Clock As of August 19, 2013:

U.S. 316,486,991 World 7,105,640,255 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Midwest Manufacturing Output Increased in June The Chicago Fed Midwest Manufacturing Index (CFMMI) increased 0.4% in June, to a seasonally adjusted level of 96.0 (2007 = 100).

The Federal Reserve Board’s industrial production index for manufacturing (IPMFG) moved up 0.3% in June.

Regional output rose 3.5% in June from a year earlier, and national output increased 2.1%.

Monthly Index

% Change

Apr 13

May 13

June 13

June 12 - 13

Chicago Mfg. Index

96.1

95.6

96.0

CFMMI-Auto

99.2 97.8 97.9

 7.3

CFMMI-Steel

91.6 90.9 91.2

 1.4

CFMMI-Machinery 97.3 96.8 97.2

q 1.1

CFMMI-Resource 91.7 91.8 92.2

 3.3

IPMFG

 2.1

 3.5

96.7 96.9 97.2

Source: Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago Updated May 28, 2013

U.S. Indicators July, 2013 Consumer Price Index

 0.2 percent

Unemployment Rate 7.4 percent Payroll Employment

 162,000

Average Hourly Earnings

 $0.02

Producer Price Index

 0.8 percent

Employment Cost Index

 0.5 percent (second quarter, 2013)

Productivity

 0.9 percent (second quarter, 2013)

U.S. Import Price Index

 0.2 percent

U.S. Export Price Index

q 0.1 percent

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Unemployment Rates—Region, State, Nation

June 13

May 13

June 12

Change/Mo. Change/Yr.

Rockford

11.0 9.9 11.5

1.1

q 0.5

Chicago

10.3 9.3 9.6

1.0

0.7

Illinois

9.8 8.7 9.4

1.1

0.4

United States

7.8

0.5

q 0.6

7.3

8.4

Source: U.S. Department of Employment Security

Let your

Voice be heard!

We w ­ elcome submissions for The VOICE—deadline is the 15th of the month preceding p ­ ublication. Send news releases and other items of interest to the business community to: The VOICE / Rockford Chamber of Commerce 308 W. State St., Ste. 190 • Rockford, IL 61101

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

33

September 2013

Membership: 101 MEMBERSHIP Share what’s going on with your business or organization with the business community and the public through The VOICE and BUSINESS DIRECT!

ALLIEDBARTON SECURITY SERVICES

J & D PROPERTIES AND HOME REPAIR

Provide Responsive Security Officer

General Contractor, Home Repair, Rehab & Restoration 1000 9th St., Ste. A, 61104 Darryl Thompson 815-540-3713

Services at the Local Level with Benefit of National Support

1771 W. Diehl Road, Ste. 200 Naperville, IL 60563

The Voice

Michael Flavin

As a complimentary benefit of membership we encourage you to submit information to The VOICE to be included in one of the three sections of each monthly issue.

Members in the News (submit information and high resolution head shot) • Board Appointments, Retirements • New Hires, Promotions, Retirements • Employee/Community/ Corporate Recognitions, Awards • Of General Interest

New Chamber Members MEMBERS

Business Briefs – Examples • New Product or Service • Certification/Recertification • New Business/Contract • Move or Expansion • and More!

Community Events – Examples • Seminar/Workshop/Class • Sponsoring an Event • Hosting an Event • Fundraiser Members may also submit a guest column for publication in The VOICE with the following guidelines:

815-397-0630

www.alliedbarton.com

APPLEBEE’S RESTAURANT Casual Dining with Excellent Service and Something for Everyone

6845 E. State St., 61108 Joe Van Geel

815-226-8818

www.applebees.com

APPLEBEE’S RESTAURANT

LUCHA CANTINA, INC. Serving Fresh Mexican-American Food as Well as Real Juice Margaritas 1641 N. Alpine Road, Ste. 212, 61107 Joshua Binning 815-977-4319 www.luchacantina.com

PASSAGES HOSPICE

• The content should be of general interest to the entire Chamber membership

815-654-8339

www.applebees.com

High Level of Individualized, Comprehensive, Family-Centered Hospice Care 929 S. Alpine Road, Ste. 202, 61108 Stacy Barclay 815-226-7785 www.passageshospice.com

• Word count should be 400 to 900 words

FISH WINDOW CLEANING

PREMIER TECHNOLOGIES

Locally Owned & Operated.

Providing Complete IT Outsourcing, Innovative Cloud-Based Solutions, On-Demand Repair Services, a Full Line of Industry Leading Computer Products, and Video Surveillance Solutions 617 E. Grand Ave. Beloit, WI 53511 Greg Williams 608-361-1000, ext. 155 www.premier-technologies.com

• The article should be informative and not advertorial

• The article should include a four-colorhigh resolution headshot and 15-word tagline on the author • Consideration by the editor for inclusion in the next issue, space permitting—two submissions maximum, per year Submissions to The VOICE should be sent to editor@rockfordchamber.com by the 15th of the month.

Casual Dining with Excellent Service and Something for Everyone

1675 E. Riverside Blvd., 61114 Mark Jerusal

Commercial-Residential, InteriorExterior, Uniformed, Licensed, Bonded & Insured

1517 Huebbe Pkwy., Ste. C Beloit, WI 53511 Donna Spude

BUSINESS DIRECT Our bi-weekly e-newsletter is a great way for members with a Gold or Platinum Enhancement Package to submit news releases and information about their company or organization.

Editorial Submission Guidelines: • Feel free to submit six press releases per year – 1 per newsletter.

• Submit 50 words or less, pasted directly into an email to editor@rockfordchamber.com. The Chamber will accept submissions by e-mail only.

• Please put “Business Direct” in the subject line.

• Attachments, hard copy press releases, flyers, submissions on job opportunities or advertising not accepted.

• Chamber reserves the right to accept or reject submissions.

• Submissions reserved for members with a Gold or Platinum Enhancement Package For advertising information in The VOICE and BUSINESS DIRECT, contact Lynette Jacques at 815-316-4317 or ljacques@ rockfordchamber.com.

For information on your chamber membership, benefits and opportunities contact Diane Navickis at 815-316-4315 or dnavickis@ rockfordchamber.com.

815-904-7045

www.fishwindowcleaning. com/30640

FOSS LANDSCAPES, INC. Landscape Services

7975 Forest Hills Road Loves Park, IL 61111 Ron Foss

815-636-4748

GENE’S PLACE Offering a Full Menu of Delicious

Bar Fare and a Complete Bar with All of Your Favorite Drinks

4412 Manchester Dr., 61109 Gene Hayenga 815-847-9270

www.genesplace.biz

INSTITUTE OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC ENGINEERS (IEEE) – ROCK RIVER VALLEY SECTION (RRVS)

ROCKFORM CARBIDE MANUFACTURING Finest Quality Toolroom Supplies for the Fastener & Metal Forming Industry Including Diamond Tool 2974 Eastrock Dr., 61109 Karl Ericksen 815-398-7650 www.rockform.com

THE RIDGE CONDOMINUM ASSOCIATION Condominium Association 6276 E. Riverside Blvd.

Loves Park, IL 61111 Patricia Keating 815-977-4409

IEEE’s Core Purpose is to

THOMASON MACHINE WORKS

Excellence for the Benefit of

Specializing in Replacement Parts for the Fastener Industry 5459 11th St., 61109 Mike Thomason 815-874-8217 www.thomasonmachine.com

Foster Technical Innovation and Humanity

P.O. Box 8365, 61126 Paul Hofmann

815-226-2518

www.ieee.org/rrvs

34

September 2013

Membership Renewals Thank you to members who renewed with the Rockford Chamber in July, 2013.

ADT Security Services, Inc. Alpine Inn Anderson Environmental & Engineering Co. Auto Body Specialist Inc. Axberg Heating Company, Inc. Baymont Inn & Suites Benny & Sons Body Shop Berg Industries, Inc. Bisconti Computers Inc. Blake Oil Company Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois C & H Design Center Century 21 Affiliated/Stateline Rental Properties Community Foundation of Northern Illinois Comprehensive Prosthetics & Orthotics Concentric Rockford Inc. Concordia University of Wisconsin Corporate Services, Inc Emeritus at Rockford Energy Dynamics Ethnic Heritage Museum Ferrellgas Focus Financial Advisors, Inc. Forest City Gear Co. GE Aviation Gerdau Ameristeel GFI Metal Treating Inc. GinestraWatson Co. Giuseppe Verdi Society/Verdi Club Gleason Cutting Tools Corporation Gommel Design Grace Funeral & Cremation Services Greenlee Textron H & R Block Heritage Woods of Rockford Holiday Inn Express Honest Pest Control Inc. Horizons Inc. Humana Ingenium Aerospace LLC Ingrid Dohm Studio and Art Gallery J. Carlson Growers, Inc. JMB Business Funding Johnny Pamcakes K&J Finishing, Inc. Kelce & Company Kennametal Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden

KP Counseling, Inc. Law Office of Jim Black & Associates LDR Construction Services Inc./LDR Cleaning & Restoration Maciano’s Pizza - Columbia Parkway Maney’s Lawnscape Inc. Mid-States Screw Corp.

Midway Village Museum Midwest Roofing Supply Morgan Building Maintenance Inc. Natural Land Institute NICOMM Networks Northern Illinois Hospice and Grief Center Northern Illinois University Northern Illinois Vein Clinic Northern Public Radio (WNIU/WNIJ/ NIRIS) NRG-Rockford NyClo Screw Machine Products Phones Plus, Inc. R.K. Dixon Company RAC Adjustment Company Reno & Zahm LLP Rock River Valley Tooling & Machining Association Rockford Art Museum Rockford Electric Equipment Company Rockford Local Development Corporation Rockford Lutheran School Rockford MELD Rockford Public Schools, District #205 Rockford Symphony Orchestra Rogers Brothers Galvanizing Salsa Business Network Shelter Insurance Companies Sinnissippi Apartments Inc. Smeja Foundation Spectrum Insurance Agency, Inc. The Grand Victorian The Terrace Senior Apartments Ticomix, Inc. Tovar Snow Professionals USANA Health Sciences Value Plus Auto Rental and Leasing VITAS Innovative Hospice Care Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. - Loves Park Weinberg & Co.

Get to Know Your Ambassadors Name: Kathleen Siedenburg Company: Judson University Position: Director of Corporate Relations How long have you been an Ambassador?

2 years What do you like most about being an Ambassador? As an Ambassador, learning about Chamber members’ core businesses and their services while providing avenues to meet new friends and share information about Judson University and the value of our degree programs are invaluable. Networking and participating in various Chambersponsored events including business seminars, expos, new-member Ribbon Cuttings, Good Morning, Rockford; and Business after Hours offer a variety of venues to learn about current business initiatives and future endeavors occurring in our region while uncovering new businessdevelopment channels for me. It is a pleasure to represent Judson University as an Ambassador.

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

EVENTS

Upcoming Chamber Events SEPTEMBER, 2013

Monday, September 9

IGNITE: Fire Up the Fairways, 1 to 5 p.m., Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Club, 5151 Guilford Road, Rockford. IGNITE invites you to join the inaugural golf networking event. 1 p.m., shotgun start; four-person team scramble.

Advanced registration/payment required. IGNITE After 5 at MauhNah-Tee-See to follow, 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Tuesday, September 10

Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford. Contact Thomas Conwell, MSI Reverse, tconwell@msiloans.biz.

Lead 360 September Breakfast, 7:30 to 9:30 a.m., Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, 200 S. Bell School Road. Sponsored by Rockford Park District (presenting).

Ribbon Cutting, Motivate Personal Physical Rehabilitation, 3057 N. Perryville Road, Rockford, 1 to 2 p.m.

Ribbon Cutting, Red Roof Inn, 7434 E. State St., Rockford, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Chamber 101 with Speed Networking, 4 to 5:15 p.m. NEW LOCATION FOR 2013 in the private meeting room, second floor at Benson Stone Company, Inc., 1100 11th St., Rockford. Sponsored by MembersAlliance Credit Union.

Wednesday, September 11

Advantage Power Network Club, 11:45 a.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford. Contact Teri Watts, United Commercial Realty, Teriw1214@ gmail.com.

Advantage Club – Originals, 11:45 a.m., various locations. Contact Tiffany Staman, Carpenter’s Place, 815-964-4105, ext. 221, or tiffanys@ carpentersplace.org.

Ribbon Cutting, Bella Luna Bakery, 308 W. State St., Ste. 135 (Stewart Square building), Rockford, 2 to 3 p.m.

Friday, September 13

Government Affairs Council Meeting, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St. Rockford. Russ Kearney and Paul Dempsey, GenCo Nuc, speak on Byron Exelon Nuclear Plant operations and give an update on the license renewal from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. For more information on joining, contact Heidi Garner at 815-316-4312.

Tuesday, September 17

Ribbon Cutting & Open House, Fehr Graham & Associates, 200 Prairie St., Ste. 208, Rockford, 3 to 6 p.m.

Thursday, September 19 2:00 - 7:00 pm BMO Harris Bank Center 300 Elm St., Rockford

Regional Business Expo Be part of the premiere regional business expo drawing more than 2,000 business people. Features special exhibitor areas, business seminars, our famous “Restaurant Row” and a Business After Hours.

Sponsor: TDS (presenting)

Thursday, September 19

Ribbon Cutting, Transformations Plastic Surgery, 1639 N. Alpine Road, Ste. 400, Rockford. Ribbon cutting 3 p.m.; open house, 4 to 8 p.m.

Tuesday, September 24

Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford. Contact Thomas Conwell, MSI Reverse, tconwell@msiloans.biz.

Wednesday, September 25

Advantage Power Network Club, 11:45 a.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford. Contact Teri Watts, United Commercial Realty, Teriw1214@ gmail.com.

Advantage Club – Originals, 11:45 a.m., various locations. Contact Tiffany Staman, Carpenter’s Place, 815-964-4105, ext. 221, or tiffanys@ carpentersplace.org.

OCTOBER, 2013 Tuesday, October 1

Business Women’s Council, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford. Overwhelmed with life’s to-do list? Make your life more efficient by choosing the productivity apps that serve you best. Jennifer Mattingly, MA, Judson University’s communications management program director, will share insights and highlights about these latest new media tools. Sponsored by Siena on Brendenwood.

Tuesday, October 8

Lead 360: Roundtable Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Hilton Garden Inn, 7675 Walton St., Rockford.

Sponsored by Rockford Park District (presenting).

Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford. Contact Thomas Conwell, MSI Reverse, tconwell@msiloans.biz.

Wednesday, October 9

Advantage Power Network Club, 11:45 a.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road,

theVoice rockfordchamber.com

EVENTS

Upcoming Chamber Events Rockford. Contact Teri Watts, United Commercial Realty, Teriw1214@gmail. com.

Advantage Club – Originals, 11:45 a.m., various locations. Contact Tiffany Staman, Carpenter’s Place, 815-964-4105, ext. 221, or tiffanys@ carpentersplace.org.

Friday, October 11

Government Affairs Council Meeting, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St. Rockford. For more information on joining, contact Heidi Garner at 815316-4312.

Thursday, October 17 5:30 - 7:30 pm Prairie Street Brewhouse 200 Prairie St., Rockford

People You Should Know Come celebrate and meet the newest inductees into the group of People You Should Know!

Sponsors: Reno & Zahm LLP (presenting); The Alliance (business)

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September 2013

Thursday, October 17

IGNITE After 5: Olives & Ivy, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., 6164 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park.

Business Fraud Workshop sponsored by US Bank, 7:30 to 10 a.m., Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, 200 S. Bell School Road, Rockford.

Tuesday, October 22

Advantage Club – Superstars, noon to 1 p.m., Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford. Contact Thomas Conwell, MSI Reverse, tconwell@msiloans.biz.

Wednesday, October 23

Advantage Power Network Club, 11:45 a.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford. Contact Teri Watts, United Commercial Realty, Teriw1214@gmail. com.

Advantage Club – Originals, 11:45 a.m., various locations. Contact Tiffany Staman, Carpenter’s Place, 815-964-4105, ext. 221, or tiffanys@ carpentersplace.org.

ADVERTISERS Advertisers Index

The Alliance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Northern Illinois Health Plan. . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Alpine Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center. . . . . . 16

Boy Scouts/Blackhawk Area Council. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Rockford Area Economic Development Council (RAEDC) . . . . . . . . . 6

Brian Thomas Photography. . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Rockford Bank & Trust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Broadmoor Agency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Rockford Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . 12,19, 27, 28, 30, 32

Comcast Business. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Employers’ Coalition on Health (ECOH). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Entré Computer Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Rockford Health System. . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 18 Rockford Orthopedic Associates. . . . . . . . 19 Rockford University. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Fast Mailing Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Rock River Valley Blood Center. . . . . . . . . 18

First National Bank and Trust Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Staff Management, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Sikich LLP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Glenwood Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Stillman Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Humana. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

SwedishAmerican Health System . . . . . . . 13

IGNITE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Thayer Lighting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

IMEC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Transformations Plastic Surgery. . . . . . . . . 36

InSphere Insurance Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . 18

Van Galder Bus Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

McGladrey. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Wipfli LLP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Chamber Staff / Call 815-987-8100.............................................. Direct Line

Einar K. Forsman, President & CEO.......................................... 815-316-4304 Heidi M. Garner, Executive Assistant to the President.................... 815-316-4312 Doug Hessong, Director of Publications & Technology................... 815-316-4338 Lynette Jacques, Advertising and Sponsorship Executive............... 815-316-4317 Vee Jevremovic, Manager of Education Programs and Events. . ........ 815-316-4337 Cyndie Landis, Financial Assistant. . .......................................... 815-316-4300 Joy Moriarty, V.P. Finance. . ..................................................... 815-316-4316 Stacy Mullins, Director of Events. . ............................................ 815-316-4302 Diane Navickis, Membership Development Manager..................... 815-316-4315 Mary Ann Suprenant, Membership Development Manager.............. 815-316-4336 Joan Sundvall, Membership Contact Coordinator......................... 815-316-4320

Chamber Board of Directors & Officers EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Chairman of the Board Richard Walsh SwedishAmerican Health System

DIRECTORS Romero Bennett Blue Sky Insurance Agency, Inc. Andrew Benson Benson Stone Company, Inc.

Vice Chair Patti Thayer Thayer Lighting, Inc.

Ryan Brauns Rockford Consulting & Brokerage

Vice Chair Richard Zumwalt OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center

Paul Callighan ComEd, An Exelon Company

Treasurer Larry Bridgeland Mid-City Office Products Immediate Past Chairman Mike Broski Entré Computer Solutions

Joe Castrogiovanni Giovanni’s, Inc. Dr. Rena Cotsones Northern Illinois University Darlene Furst Furst Staffing Jeff Hultman Riverside Community Bank

Penelope Lechtenberg Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP Michael Mastroianni Rock Valley College Paul McCann Stanley Steemer Pat Morrow Alpine Bank Amy Ott Chicago Rockford International Airport Mark Peterson CBL Associates Cherry Vale Michele Petrie BMO Harris Bank Timothy Rollins WilliamsMcCarthy Daniel Saavedra Saavedra Gehlhausen Architects Henry Seybold Rockford Health System

Pat Shaw McGladrey LLP Somchan Thatsanaphon K-I Machine Tool & Production Inc. Tim White UTC Aerospace Systems Jennifer Wood Sikich LLP

EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS Don Thayer Rockford Area Economic Development Council Einar K. Forsman President & CEO, Rockford Chamber of Commerce John Groh Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

October 2013 Special Sections Insurance Companies to Serve You Law Firms to Serve You For information on advertising, call 815 987-8100