the
CIT KEEPS ROLLIN’ ALONG
GETTING AMPED UP PAGE 13
PAGE 3 September 2021 | Volume 34 | No. 9
of the rockford business community RECLAIM BLIGHTED PROPERTIES
Heartbeat of health care Dr. Alex Stagnaro-Green, Regional Dean of University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford addresses the audience at the Heartbeat of Healthcare Luncheon. The program celebrated UIC College of Medicine Rockford’s 50th Anniversary and highlighted both the past and future of the institution.
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Celebrating 50 years in Rockford, the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford kicked off its anniversary celebration at the Aug. 12 Heartbeat of Healthcare Luncheon, presented by BMO Harris Bank. The College of Medicine Rockford was founded in 1971 as a regional campus of the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine. The Initial Council — comprised of OSF Saint Anthony Hospital, Rockford Memorial Hospital and SwedishAmerican Hospital, had three goals for the institution: the first class to enter in 1972, develop internships and residencies, and develop active CME programs. Completing the first goal, the first class was admitted in 1972 after completing its initial year on the Urbana campus and graduated in 1975. Fast forward, in 2017, the College of Medicine Rockford became a fouryear campus with nine academic departments. The College of Medicine Rockford currently boasts a total MD enrollment of 234. Including the class of 2021, the College of Medicine Rockford has graduated 2,147 individuals.. During the luncheon, Dr. StagnaroGreen engaged the audience with interesting information about the College of Medicine Rockford and introduced guests to many alumni and current students in the room. He outlined current opportunities for growth as well as detailed the path that brought the institution to its current position; further showing the institution’s history as an economic driver in the Rockford community. Unveiling plans for a new Rural Health Sciences Education Building on the college campus, Dr. Stagnaro-Green gave particular attention to the Rural Medical Education Program.
Addressing Healthcare Shortages Stemming from a need to develop a distinguishing niche for Rockford, the Rural Medical Education Program (RMED) was established in 1990 to improve access to health care services in rural, downstate and shortage areas of Illinois. Health profession shortages have a significant negative impact on the health and life expectancy of the more than 1.4 million residents of rural Illinois who tend to be older, less well-insured, more likely to report “fair to poor health” than those in urban counties, and have a higher prevalence of disease. “What started 50 years ago in Rockford as a regional medical school has grown to become a health sciences campus that is known for its work in preparing health care professionals to serve in rural and underserved areas,” Stagnaro-Green said. “Our Rural Medical Education Program and National Center for Rural Health Professions have developed successful models that can be applied to a number of health professions to help with the shortages that exist in all but four Illinois counties.” Ranked as one of the top rural medical education programs in the nation and as a supplement to the regular MD curriculum, the RMED program recruits students to serve in rural underserved areas as rural physicians. With the ability to train health professionals in Rockford, the UIC Health (continued on page 4)
Legislation sponsored by State Senator Steve Stadelman to reduce the number of abandoned and neglected homes in Illinois will take effect on Jan. 1, 2022. Municipalities and counties will be able to partner with land banks to intervene earlier in the court system to maintain and manage vacant buildings through Senate Bill 1721. “This bill makes it easier for municipalities to intercept dilapidated properties before they are beyond repair so that they can be rehabilitated and placed back on the tax rolls,” said Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara. The law also will allow a reduction in the cap on interest rates on unpaid property taxes to help people stay in their homes.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR! MAYOR’S BUSINESS ADDRESS THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7 RADISSON HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER
For more information, see page 4 SPONSORED BY
DIRECTING FUNDS TOWARDS MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT Beginning Jan. 1, Senate Bill 2278 goes into effect to ensure local sales tax revenue approved by Winnebago County voters is used for mental health and substance abuse resources. The new legislation requires counties that have approved the sales tax referendum to create seven-member boards of health advocates and professionals to help administer the funding. In March 2020, Winnebago County residents passed a referendum increasing the county’s sales tax rate to fund communitybased mental health and substance abuse resources and support. The county expects to see up to $14 million annually.
NEW 464 AREA CODE FOR 708 REGION The Illinois Commerce Commission has added a 464 area code to south suburban counties presently served by the 708 area code. It will be available for assignment only when all assignable prefixes in the 708 have been exhausted — not expected to occur until January 2022. Current 708 area customers will keep their numbers. Earlier this year, it was announced that customers in the 708 area code must adopt 1 + 10 digit dialing by Oct. 24, 2021 to make room for 988, the 3-digit dialing code ordered by the Federal Communications Commission for the National Suicide Hotline.
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September 2021
THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com
EXECUTIVE’S PERSPECTIVE
CAITLIN PUSATERI Rockford Chamber Executive VP
Are We There Yet? Not Yet.
This past summer, my family didn’t take a “big” vacation. With a newborn at the end of May and a 2.5 year old, a big vacation just wasn’t in the realm of sanity for me. But, we did fill our summer days with smaller adventures — most of which involved a few hours in the car. A classic “road trip”… toddler/baby edition. On one of our travels, we stopped at a rest stop to stretch our legs, go to the bathroom, and get more snacks (the best part of any road trip, no matter the travel time). After being confined in the car, it felt good to get out and stretch. After a short time, it was time to pile back in and keep journeying. I had to take a deep breath and brace myself for the second half of the trip. I knew I was going to be in an environment that wasn’t always comfortable — my legs were cramped by all the necessities shoved into the car for two little kids; my daughter was watching terribly repetitive and, after a while grating, kids shows on the iPad; my son was a ticking time bomb, crying if we dared to stop at a red light or once we
hit magical time limit I didn’t know; my daughter continually asking if we were there yet, when we had hours to go. I took a deep breath, got back in the car and went with it. We got where we were going, with mild amounts of discomfort and crying, and it was all worth it. In the end, when thinking back on the trip, the small discomforts aren’t what stick out — the good memories are. If I’m honest with myself, I actually feel pretty darn proud of myself that I was able to survive the trip, with everyone in relatively good spirits. Traveling with kids is hard, but I didn’t let it hold me back. I did the hard thing and I was better off for it. This past summer, we were at the rest stop of the pandemic. We got a chance to stretch our legs, take off the masks and enjoy the fresh air. Assuming we are vaccinated, we were able to hug our family and friends that we had missed dearly; support small business owners by dining in rather than taking out; and attend events in person rather than strictly on screen.
We grabbed our snacks, we stretched our legs — now we have to get back in the car and finish the journey. The pandemic isn’t over — as much as we want it to be. We still have work to do. We still have vaccines to get, masks to wear indoors, and others to watch out for. Our workplaces have to continue to pivot, be intentional, adjust once more. And it sucks. It’s often hot, uncomfortable, and sometimes anxietyinducing. But, here’s the thing: we will eventually move past this. I don’t know when — it could be years. But eventually, this too shall pass. And at that point, we will look back and we likely won’t remember much about masks or the few days of discomfort after the vaccine. We’ll remember the way people pulled together to support one another. We’ll remember the changes that were made to the workforce that had the power to make
the workforce a more equitable landscape. We’ll remember the time spent with our family and how much we value time with those we love. The discomforts will be forgotten and we’ll have pride that we mustered through. So take a deep breath. Put your seatbelt on and grab a map. It’s time to finish the journey. Do the hard, strategic work in your organizations to adjust to what’s no longer a short-term temporary situation. Put on the mask — vaccinated or not — when you’re indoors and around others. Continue to work with your team in an empathetic way to continue to pivot. It’s exhausting — but road trips are worth it. Doing the hard work through this health crisis is worth it, too.
Let your Voice be heard The Rockford Chamber of Commerce welcomes and encourages member submissions for The VOICE of the Rockford Business Community. Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding publication date. Send news releases and other items of interest to the business community to: The VOICE Rockford Chamber of Commerce 308 W. State St., Ste. 190 Rockford, IL 61101 For information about advertising contact Customer Service at 815-987-8100. The VOICE of the Rockford Business Community (USPS 784-120). ISSN number 1086-0630, is published monthly by the Rockford Chamber of Commerce, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, Illinois 61101. Periodicals postage paid at Rockford, Ill. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The VOICE of the Rockford Business Community, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, IL 61101.
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September 2021 3
profile
MEMBER PROFILE
CIT Trucks keeps trucking along COMPANY POSITIONED FOR GROWTH WITH NEW LOCATIONS By Paul Anthony Arco One of the best known companies in the trucking industry is located right here in Loves Park. CIT Trucks is a medium and heavy-duty dealership that specializes in sales, service and parts for new and used trucks. The company was founded and incorporated in 1975, with corporate headquarters located in Normal, Ill. Once known as Central Illinois Trucks, the name was changed to CIT Trucks as the company grew in other parts of Illinois, Indiana and Missouri. “We are a full-service dealership,” said Jim Garner, Service Manager. “We sell or lease trucks to a variety of industries, and we have 24 work bays for service. “Everything is touched by a truck.” For example, CIT serves municipalities that need landscaping trucks and snowplows, companies that deliver groceries, and companies that haul gas. The Loves Park facility was built by William Charles Company in 1997 and sold to Northern Illinois Mack. In 2012, CIT purchased Northern Illinois Trucks. CIT has 17 locations throughout Illinois, Indiana and Missouri, and 700 employees, including 60 in Loves Park. “Our location is one of the largest
locations CIT owns,” said Garner. “We sell Kenworth, Volvo, Mack and Isuzu trucks.” Most of CIT’s local customers are based in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin.
Growth Plans The global pandemic has created challenges for the transportation industry. “Truck inventory and parts have experienced extended delays,” said Garner. “As soon as we get new truck inventory in, it’s sold. All businesses are undergoing challenging delays.” Despite the obstacles, CIT has managed to weather the storm. Garner said the company has continued to grow, including hiring new staff during the past year. He credits strong ownership for the company’s success. “Our organization is very solid,” he said. “We saw the writing on the wall and positioned ourselves to be financially strong. We’ve buckled down and continued to prosper.” The future looks just as promising. CIT is in the process of establishing new locations and remodeling existing facilities. In Loves Park, the company is planning for a warehouse expansion. “The company as a whole is growing,” Garner said. “In the future, long-term renewable fuels are
going to expand, and that will be huge for our industry.” Locally, the CIT workforce is made up of highly-skilled CIT has 17 locations throughout Illinois, Indiana and Missouri, technicians, sales staff, and 700 employees, including 60 in Loves Park. accounting, parts, leasing and finance. Garner, who’s been technician is a mobile and financially with the company for 23 years, is proud stable career path.” Secondary education of the longevity within his team. The is preferred, and CIT has an in-house tenure ranges from new hires to 40 years training program for employees who desire of experience. additional education. “We struggle to find skilled employees One of Garner’s greatest satisfactions like anyone else,” said Garner. “We never is the relationships he’s developed over the had problems until the past five years, and years. “When you take care of customers like every year it gets more difficult. It used to we do, you form many good friendships,” be that kids growing up on the farm would he said. “If a truck going from New York to make the transition to diesel technician, California breaks down, our team stays late but as smaller farms are going away that to get the parts needed so the driver doesn’t lose the load. I tell customers that we’re recruiting source is becoming depleted.” the Mayo Clinic of the trucking industry. Relationship Building It’s a good feeling anytime you can help a To help restock the talent pool, CIT customer solve a problem.” has become involved with area technical colleges such as Rock Valley College CIT TRUCKS and Alignment Rockford. They even Service Manager: Jim Garner visit middle schools to speak to younger 4301 N. Bell School Rd., Loves Park students. “It’s important to show them 825-639-2000 different paths and the value of trade www.cittrucks.com schools,” Garner said. “Being a diesel
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HEART BEAT
Continued from front page
Sciences Campus-Rockford is poised to become the first university in the nation to have a rural health sciences education and research hub spanning seven colleges. The proposed $100-million building would allow the expansion of UIC programs that focus on educating rural health professionals to include such fields as dentistry, public health, social work and applied health. That would result in an additional 400 students on the Rockford campus, essentially doubling the number of students. While this expansion will enhance the health of rural Illinois residents by increasing the number of health care providers with the skills and desire to serve their unique needs, the expansion will continue to add to the College of Medicine – Rockford’s economic impact in the Rockford MSA. With nearly 400 employees in Rockford, more than $25.1 million is spent annually in payroll and an additional $11.2 million is spent in support of its operations, research and clinical programs. The campus provides an additional $7.3 million to the Rockford MSA through the expenditures of its students and visitors. Prior to the 2017 expansion to provide all four years of education in Rockford, the added income created by the UIC Health Sciences Campus – Rockford in Fiscal Year 2014-15 was $58.2 million – equivalent to supporting 898 jobs.
will result in added annual income of approximately $2.2 million – equivalent to creating 31 new jobs. The expansion of the RMED program will continue this trend of economic impact -- bringing more jobs, employees with disposable income and visitors to Rockford. Next steps for the project include securing funding from state, federal and philanthropic sources. Stagnaro-Green hopes the project will break ground in 2023. In the midst of a global pandemic, with the healthcare system exhausted, the Heartbeat of Healthcare Luncheon was able to press pause on the current stress and point guests to a brighter future – one focused on expansion, wellbeing for those in need and a continued legacy of economic impact. The Heartbeat of Healthcare was presented by BMO Harris Bank. Gold sponsors included Humana, Rosecrance Health Network and SwedishAmerican, A Division of UW Health. Silver sponsors included Comcast Business, Northern Illinois Hospice, Quartz and Van Matre Impact of Expansion Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital. The impact of the 2017 expansion Event photography was sponsored by project spending from 2016 to 2035 Mindy Joy Photography. v
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September 2021 5
WATT featured for long-term use of Results Only Work Environment Greg Watt
Christina Kamer
By Barbara Connors, The VOICE With the business shutdowns from the pandemic, the proven use of technology for business interactions and employee demand for a more balanced work-home life, many organizations are rethinking their work environment and how best to get the work done. On July 9, WATT Global Media was featured in The New Yorker article, “How to Achieve Sustainable Remote Work” on its long-term use of the Results Only Work Environment (ROWE). The 50-person, business-media publishing firm headquartered in Rockford adopted the ROWE philosophy as its overall business strategy for talent acquisition in 2012. Moving from Mt. Morris, Ill., to Rockford in 2007 provided access to a diverse workforce for the company, but pushing “against the tide” of traditional work structures came from a recognition that media client needs were moving from print to digital products. Work preferences among talent with those digital competencies was veering from the traditional.
Transition from the traditional: Employees measured based on results, not hours worked on the job site “We needed to adapt to those needs,” said CEO Greg Watt. Watt was inspired by the story of Best Buy and its use of ROWE in the Daniel Pink 2009 book, “Drive.” Best Buy piloted ROWE between 2005 and 2007. By 2008, more than 80 percent of employees at corporate headquarters embraced the mind shift of a results-only work environment. Work couldn’t be passed off without a structured negotiation of what exactly was being asked and both parties agreeing to the plan. Passive-aggressive comments about peoples’ work behavior, such as, “Are you leaving early again today?” were frowned on and termed “sludge.” In 2013, Best Buy CEO Hubert Joly cancelled the program in order to take the company in a new direction.
Results Oriented ROWE emphasizes paying employees for results (output) rather than for the number of hours worked. Jody Thompson and Cali Ressler co-created the system and implements it in other organizations
through their professional services firm, CultureRx®. WATT made the cultural shift in 2012 by training employees at its Rockford offices through CultureRx®. “Managers and employees who transitioned in 2012 adopted the concept quickly,” said Christina Kamer, human resources consultant for WATT. Each employee works with his or her results coach (manager) to set goals that are continuously measured using SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time Frame. Goals are reaffirmed or modified every 90 to 120 days. WATT continues to use ROWE for its employees located in 16 states, and three located internationally. “Specifically, WATT employees integrate work with their life,” Kamer said. “Work is what you do, not where you go.” In screening applicants for open positions, some applicants share their preferences to work in an office, so they self-screen out, Kamer said. “However, the majority of applicants are excited to
We communicate to the new employees that they are the CEOs of their jobs.
own their work schedule and results. We established payroll in the states where staff reside. Employees work from home, the Rockford office or wherever they need to be. Some are early risers; others are night owls. “We communicate to the new employees that they are the CEOs of their jobs. Each employee has a formal job description and knows the expectations for meeting results. We’re finding that employees are more involved in self-directing and managing their performance by establishing and meeting their own individual and team goals.” Last year like other businesses, WATT closed its home office temporarily and implemented a travel ban. Employees, however, were able to meet their goals already working primarily from home. Now, post-pandemic, “ROWE continues to be core to our special culture, and the driver of results,” Greg Watt said. “It’s enhanced our culture, promoted employee engagement and increased revenue.” Barbara Connors is editor of The VOICE.
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September 2021
THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com
IGNITE: YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
CIRA RICHARDSON IGNITE ROCKFORD
Reimagining is good for your neighborhood
Let your creative mind loose to transform where you live Local gardener drops off produce to master gardeners at Edgebrook Farmers Market.
Donate your extra garden produce With the garden harvest season in full swing, University of Illinois Extension invites local gardeners to donate their excess fruits, vegetables and herbs at drop-off sites throughout Winnebago County. “Our purpose is to provide those less fortunate with access to fresh produce during the heart of the growing season,” explains Margaret Larson, county extension director. “Since the start of the program here in Winnebago County in 2001, over 200,000 pounds of produce has been collected and donated. In 2017, almost 27,000 pounds was donated.” The six drop-off sites:
Year-Round ■ University of Illinois Extension
Office, 1040 N Second St., Rockford ■ Rock River Valley Pantry, 421 S. Rockton Ave., Rockford ■ Winnebago-Boone Farm Bureau, 1925 S. Meridian Road, Rockford
Seasonal (through end of September) ■ Cherry Valley Public Library, 755 E. State St., Cherry Valley, Tuesdays, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. ■ Edgebrook Farmers Market, Rockford, Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. ■ The Landscape Connection, 4472 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, Monday through Sunday during store hours. Visit go.illinois.edu/jsw or 815-9864357 for more details.
Recently, Great Neighborhoods finished up a project with Judson University’s architecture program. Their Graduate Studio came to Rockford for a four-day master planning charrette where students took a neighborhood tour and spoke to community stakeholders and residents. The purpose of the Graduate Studio project was to pick a city and focus on its urban design and community design, identify the strengths and challenges, and develop an urban masterplan in response. The second part of the project focused on developing architectural design projects on site within the proposed masterplan.
innovative ideas have come from the simple act of imagining something bigger, easier and more beautiful. 4.
Imagination is magical: Think
about children playing together and the places, people and things they have created from their imaginations. How amazing would life be to look at everyday challenges through the eyes of a child? Imaginative thoughts turn the mundane into a magical expression. 5. Imagination provides hope: Watching the news and hearing about the world’s challenges and hardships all the time, makes us feel like that’s just the way it is. Using our imagination as a means
If you are looking for an
of creation, provides hope and where there is hope there is an opportunity for
organization that can help
transformation and change.
you reimagine where you
Imagine the Possibilities
live, Great Neighborhoods is a great place to start.
When
you
look
around
your
community and your neighborhood, remind yourself that there are so many
The graduate students reimagined Rockford’s Fordham, SWIFTT and ORCHID neighborhoods as part of their project. The results were amazing! The recommendations included an American girls’ professional baseball museum focused on the Rockford Peaches, aquarium and science center, ecology center, event venue, mixed income housing and a vertical farm and restaurant. The project sparked not only community conversations, but it challenged us to use our imaginations and rethink, and rethink big, about where we live, work, play and worship. And even though it is responsible to be realistic, using our imagination has so much value. Here are five reasons to use your imagination more: 1. Imagination sparks passion: Dreaming of what could be allows us to tap into our imagination and reminds us what it feels like to be passionate about something. Imagination connects to passion and that passion turns into purpose. 2. Imagination can create our futures: Our imagination is a vehicle that takes our thoughts and makes them possible. Albert Einstein said, “imagination is everything. It is the preview for life’s coming attractions. 3. Imagination stimulates creativity and innovation: Imagination is the creative power and key ingredient to expansion and advancement in the world. Some of the most influential and
more possibilities outside of what you are seeing right now. You can turn a green space into a park or a community garden. You can redesign a crosswalk, turn fences and trashcans into colorful creations, brighten up a dark neighborhood with a neon-mural, and more. We have the power to create so much more, and it’s up to us to use our imaginations for the better. If you are looking for an organization that can help you reimagine where you live, Great Neighborhoods is a great place to start. Great Neighborhoods is a grassroots program available to help residents understand their neighborhoods and what they have to offer. We transform neighborhoods into what the residents want. Together, we co-create action plans with our neighborhoods, and help connect all the dots and utilize networks and resources to move projects forward. Connect
and
get
involved
with
Great Neighborhoods to impact the neighborhoods around you by emailing cira@transformrockford.org. You can also visit the website, greatneighborhoods.info, and link to the Facebook and Instagram accounts too. Cira Richardson is program director at Transform Rockford-Great Neighborhoods and a member of IGNITE. The views expressed are those of Richardson’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
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September 2021 7
GUEST COLUMNIST
Private Schools: Good for Rockford PAUL BRANDT Rockford Christian Schools
When students thrive, families, businesses and our economy thrives
Rockford is blessed by private schools that range in size, in religion and philosophy, in instructional style, and location. While meeting the diverse needs of students throughout our community, private schools are also good for the growth and expansion of business. Private schools are good for Rockford.
tuition rate. Schools aid families through donor-funded financial aid, the Invest in Kids Act and reduced costs to families with several children enrolled. Rockford families are finding that they should not assume that family finances are a barrier to the benefits of a private school education.
Combined private school
Private Schools: Good for the Local Economy
employment places private schools among the top 20 employers of Winnebago County. Private Schools: Good for Business People love options. Each private school is driven by its unique philosophy, values and approach to teaching. Workers relocating to Rockford look for educational options that meet the particular needs of their children. Because they provide for those needs, private schools support community-wide educational choice that attracts new workers and new businesses. Private schools meet the needs of diverse students by providing diversity of educational methods, spiritual values, motivation and learning styles. That variety ranges from resource programs that support students with particular learning needs through advanced placement, but without overwhelming mandated testing that distracts from learning. The varieties of private schools serve the mosaic of peoples that form today’s Rockford region.
Private Schools: Good for Families People love freedom. The educational choices provided by private schools allow parents to choose schools that align with their family values. Parents in great numbers are using their freedom to choose private schools that support what they hold dear. Parents are doing this in such numbers that the combined enrollment at private schools would make them the third largest school district in Winnebago County. The doors to private schools are opening wider as they address the financial hurdle of tuition. The families of four in 10 students attending local private schools pay less than the full
Our local economy thrives when good jobs are plentiful. Private schools employ dedicated workers who are the heart and soul of each school’s unique service to our community. Schools are not primarily buildings, or equipment, or even the curriculum. It is the people found in our private schools that make the difference for children and youth. Our private schools employ hundreds of outstanding teachers, assistants, cooks, administrators, coaches, and others. In fact, the combined private school employment places them among the top 20 employers of Winnebago County.
Private Schools: Good for Children and Youth The academic benefits of private schools are well documented. That topic is worthy of an article of its own. For now, check out the data provided by the Council for American Private Education at capenet.org/benefits. According to wise Benjamin Franklin, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” Children and youth attend school for their present good and for future opportunities. Rockford is blessed by private school graduates in past and present service to our community, such as mayor, county chair, district attorney, state senator, counselor, fire fighter, police officer, pastor, pilot, building trades, nurse, public school superintendent, business owner, CEO, surgeon, public school principal, and so many more. When students thrive; families, businesses and our economy thrive. Private schools are good for Rockford. Paul Brandt is superintendent of Rockford Christian Schools. Private schools across Rockford provided input for this article. The views expressed are theirs and might not necessarily be those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
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CARIN WELLS Danfoss Drives
September 2021
THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com
GUEST COLUMNIST
GUEST COLUMNIST
Adjusting to a new “not-so-normal” normal
Succession planning for local businesses
It goes without saying that last year was completely unprecedented. Without much warning the world came to a shuddering stop and life as we knew it was totally put on hold. We were forced to miss out on birthdays, weddings, holidays, and even our regular, old day-to-days. Now as the world starts to re-emerge from its lockdown, and we begin to transition back to our offices, schools and long-forgotten routines, there will be a shared sentiment that we are starting to enter into a “new normal,” but what exactly does that mean? And how can we successfully navigate another new change after a year of such instability?
Take a Priority Inventory We have had an entire year to reflect, in-between endless social media scrolling and binge watching our favorite streaming services, but what did we learn from all that time spent? Take stock of what things you have missed the most and what things you could definitely stand to live without. Maybe you decided that the coffee brewed at home was far superior to the coffee at the drive thru. Or maybe you realized that you got more out of your work day when you spent less time checking your phone’s notifications. Perhaps there were things you wish you would have done with your sudden and unplanned abundance of time? Make a physical list of the things that are most important to you and keep it front and center, where the important things deserve to be.
Set Boundaries Now that you have your priorities in order, make them priorities. A key part of preventing yourself from taking on too much is learning that “no” is a complete sentence that doesn’t require additional explanation. It is much easier to prevent priorities from falling off your
JIM REYNOLDS Blackhawk Bank
plate when you don’t overload it. Familiarize yourself with your personal limits and get comfortable with politely declining when you have reached them. You have to respect your own boundaries and limits first before expecting others to respect them as well.
Check-In with Your Team Most of us spent much of the past year isolated, but we do not have to make our transitions back to normal alone. So much has changed, but one thing that doesn’t have to be is the support we can provide to one another. Check in with the people on your team -- whether that is your colleagues, your manager or even your friends and family. Have their situations changed in the past year? Has yours? Maybe there are new career paths, new family members or simply new expectations. Reacquaint yourself with the role others play in your life and the role you play in theirs.
Most importantly. Be Gentle! Be gentle with others and with yourself. Keep in mind that we are all adjusting to our own versions of this new “normal,” but that doesn’t mean we are all experiencing the same version of normal. For some, they may be embracing a fully remote workplace that gives more time to spend with children or pets, while others may be missing the water cooler chit-chat that would break up the monotony of a Tuesday morning. In a post-lockdown world where we have lost so much, let’s not let empathy be one of those things. CaRin Wells is training coordinator for Danfoss Drives. The views expressed are those of Wells’ and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
A plan for the successor of the business will provide everyone at the company, including yourself, peace of mind about the future. As a local business owner, creating a financially stable future for yourself, your employees and your clients is a high priority, and one of the best ways you can do that is to develop a succession plan. This type of planning allows owners to identify leaders and key employees in the business and how the business will carry on in your absence. Creating a succession plan can seem daunting, and between the dayto-day operations, managing employee schedules and solving immediate issues, it can sometimes take a backseat. However, planning for a future when you are no longer at the helm of all business decisions is important. Whether you plan to exit your business in the next five or 25 years, developing a plan will benefit your business for years to come.
Planning Ahead One of the main benefits of succession planning is the opportunity to plan ahead, instead of focusing on the immediate future. Some business owners
focus their energy on the here and now, feeling stress to grow their business or keep their business financially solvent. However, succession planning allows you to look ahead and give careful thought to the longevity of the company. This, in turn, will also help you make better decisions for your company now, because you will have your end goal in mind.
Peace of Mind Another benefit is the added security for the company, future owners and customers. With an exit plan, there will be a reassurance that the company will be able to provide the goods and services that customers need and rely on, as well as provide stability for employees and their families. A plan for the successor of the business will provide everyone at the company, including yourself, peace of mind about the future.
Identifying Your Priorities Creating a transition plan for your company will allow you to clearly identify what your own exit objectives are. Some business owners may believe that they can leave the company at any time, with little to no preparations. Unfortunately, this outlook can create unnecessary stress on you, the employees and the future owner. Exit planning takes into consideration your own goals as an owner and how you want the company to carry on, so nothing is left to chance. Jim Reynolds, CExP™, is vice president business banking, Blackhawk Bank. The views expressed are those of Reynolds’ and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com
DR. EHREN JARRETT Superintendent RPS 205
September 2021 9
Benchmarks set for reading proficiency, graduation rates
‘Won’t stop until we hit our improvement goals’ The Rockford Public Schools has attained a stability the community should be proud of. As I enter my ninth year as superintendent, the school board and I feel collective accomplishment about completing a $279 million facilities plan, dramatically decreasing the tax rate, and building a solid curriculum and strong teacher-driven teams to guide student learning. Federal funding under the COVID rescue plan will pay for more than $150 million in air quality improvements, so that by 2024, all of our classrooms will be air-conditioned. It’s a solid investment in our community’s future. However, the board and I realized that without significant improvement in student achievement, people aren’t going to feel like our work had the ultimate payoff: ensuring all students have access to a high-quality school. No matter what we do with our physical infrastructure, no matter what we do to increase people’s positive feeling about working in the district or sending children to our schools, there’s an elephant in the room. Still, far too many schools are performing below where they need to be. Still, far too many student outcomes are predicted by zip code.
Third-Grade Literacy Rate As a result, the board and I came together when it was time to negotiate a new contract. When new contracts are negotiated, it’s typical to have goals that aren’t very specific and lacking in direct accountability. The board and I wanted to turn that around. We felt now is the season to really attack some intractable issues: our third-grade literacy rate, our freshman on track rate and our graduation rate. By 2024, we are committed to increasing our on-track and district graduation rates to 75 percent and improving our third-grade literacy scores on the Illinois Assessment of Readiness by five percentage points. Why reading proficiency? Why third grade? Research shows if students are reading at grade level by the third grade, the chances they will succeed in school and ultimately graduate vastly increase. Reading proficiency is foundational in education. As students move through the system, they should have post-secondary choices. Do they want to go to college? We want that as an option. Do they want to start
a career right away, with the help of an industry credential? We want that as an option, too.
Freshman On-Track Rate To monitor progress toward the goal of graduation, we are building an ontrack tool for all middle school grades. That will drive another critical measure: the freshman on-track rate, a data point found on the Illinois Report Card. Our measures are too low right now, and we know it. Currently 67 percent of our students graduate. An estimated 68 percent of our freshmen are on track to graduate. Only 19 percent of our third-graders meet or exceed standards in reading on the most recent Illinois Assessment of Readiness. (That compares to 38 percent reading proficiency for the state.) We won’t stop when we hit our improvement goals. That’s not where we want to land. That’s where we begin with a universal commitment to all of our students. Inside our organization, we’ve built the structural capacity to deliver on these promises. We have a strong curriculum framework for both literacy and math, developed over five years. We have a strategic budgeting system that provides greater equity and determines allocations to schools based on student needs. We have developed teacher leaders and principal leaders. We have built, and are adhering to, an Academic Return on Investment protocol for our highestleverage projects. They have all led us to the point where we’re ready with one aligned system. It’s focused on raising student achievement and ensuring equity, with shared accountability. A stable foundation has allowed the board and I to be open-eyed about our most deeply intractable issues and act with urgency on moving the most important metrics. Until we address these core metrics, the board and I believe there will always be a limit to what we can accomplish. Our journey will continue, but this is the next important step we can take. Dr. Ehren Jarrett is superintendent of Rockford Public Schools. The views expressed are those of Dr. Jarrett’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
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WE BUILD
THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com
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SPECIAL SECTION Business Innovations & Trends
R O C K F O R D
THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com
September 2021
C H A M B E R
O F
C O M M E R C E
Small Business Enterprise While researching the
Finding your business niche VINCE CHIARELLI SBDC
What does your customer base really want?
When starting a business, it is important to differentiate yourself from your competition. To achieve this, entrepreneurs should find a specific business niche to target. A business niche is a specialized area of a broader business market that your business serves. Finding a niche is important, as it not only helps create stable revenue streams, but will also help build a loyal customer base. An example of a business niche would be a clothing company who specifically sells clothing for hiking, as they would be focusing on the specific market of hikers.
Some Steps to Take Once a business niche is created, the following steps are important to build a successful strategy. First, a target market/audience must be selected. As described in the above niche example, hikers would be the target audience. Then further research should be conducted on this customer base. Entrepreneurs need to understand what this customer base desires and what can be done to possibly lessen their frustrations with their competitors or other similar products.
customer base, the entrepreneur might even find an underserved need of this base.
While researching the customer base, the entrepreneur might even find an underserved need of this base. For example, maybe when researching hikers, they discover there aren’t many retail options that also accommodate children of hikers. After these steps, it is important to create a business plan. This will help define what exact products will be sold, the ideal customer and a pricing model. As part of the business plan, it is then important to plan your marketing efforts. It is important to find a marketing strategy that fits your business niche, as various marketing
strategies work for different types of business industries and niches. For help creating a business plan and creating your business niche strategy, the Rockford SBDC is here to help! Contact us for a consultation at 815316-4301 or sbdc@rockfordchamber. com. Vince Chiarelli owns Chiarelli Consulting and is a consultant with the Illinois Small Business Development Center at the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com
September 2021
Recharging Rockford PATTI THAYER Thayer Lighting, Inc.
Get plugged in: Electric Vehicle Chargers (EVCs)
Policymakers, drivers and auto manufacturers are betting big on electric vehicles or EVs. While it might seem easy to dismiss the public relations fireworks of a brand like Tesla, GM recently announced a $5 billion investment, and Volkswagen plans to go electric-only by 2035. In America, one of every 16 vehicles are a Ford F150, and this year Ford launched the F150 Lightning, an electric truck with all the features of a serious work vehicle. It’s no wonder that the number of EVs in the United States is expected to climb by 4 million by 2025, and this vehicle type should reach 40 to 50 percent market penetration by the end of the decade.
From consumer surveys to business spending, the data shows that financial decisions are increasingly being based on their potential environmental impact. Every business has an opportunity to profit from this trend by installing electric vehicle charging stations. For the following reasons, the time to act on this opportunity is now.
Tax Incentives Are Sunsetting Currently, businesses that install charging stations can seek a federal tax rebate for up to 30 percent of the project cost. Unfortunately, these incentives will end on Dec. 31 of this year. There was a possibility that Congress would renew the tax incentives in the infrastructure bill, but as of this writing, the bill has passed the Senate without any such language, and House leadership is refusing to take the bill up unless the Senate passes a larger infrastructure package they sent to the upper house earlier this year. The bottom line: It seems increasingly unlikely these incentives will be renewed for 2022.
First Mover Advantage Taking the initiative leads to advantage. True, sometimes it also carries increased risk. But, one of the beauties of electric vehicle technology is that it’s currently in the maturity sweet spot for profitability. It’s mature enough to be past all the kinks and growing pains, but new enough for you to receive the advantages of being an early adopter. If you deploy charging technology at your facility, you’ll have the advantage of
being one of the few in the Rockford area to offer it to a rapidly growing segment.
The Commitment Is Relatively Small In areas where EVs are common, it’s recommended that developers equip 10 percent of parking spaces to charging stations. Joining the electric vehicle revolution won’t require massive investment, just a few stations here and there.
Attract Sustainability Renters and Buyers From consumer surveys to business spending, the data shows that financial decisions are increasingly being based on their potential environmental impact. This trend is definitely present in the rental space. Sixty-one percent of residential renters say they will pay more to live in an environmentally friendly apartment, according to surveys by Apartmentdata.com. The majority of electric vehicle owners earn more than $100,000 per year, meaning they will be an excellent target market for higher-end rental properties and single-family homes that accommodate their vehicles. For businesses already seeking sustainable locations (or using an electric vehicle fleet), charging station support might be the factor that decides who will land their long-term lease. Plus, charging stations give you points toward LEED certification, making these properties even more attractive to businesses interested in a green approach.
Increase Your Retail Traffic with Affluent Customers Brought Right to You Electric vehicle manufacturers supply their customers with apps that direct them to charging stations in their area, and typically the vehicle will need to charge for at least 30 minutes. In other words, once you’ve installed charging stations, someone else is sending you customers who are going to have time on their hands and an above average income. It’s a perfect situation for any retail business. If this opportunity is making sense to you, we’re glad to be your advisers. Get in touch, and we’ll help you create a strategy to power you to greater profitability. rechargerockford.com Patti Thayer is president of Thayer Lighting, Inc. The views expressed are those of Thayer’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
SPECIAL SECTION Business Innovations & Trends
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R O C K F O R D
C H A M B E R
O F
C O M M E R C E
economic development MANUFACTURING DAY 2021 Career Education Associates of North Central Illinois (CEANCI) is planning Manufacturing Day 2021 and needs manufacturers to host high school students for a facility tour in October. Companies interested in participating should contact Bethany Meade, b.mead@ceanci.org or 815-921-8471. MFG Day - Manufacturing Day - helps show the reality of modern manufacturing careers by encouraging companies and educational institutions around the nation to open their doors to students and teachers. As manufacturers seek to fill 4.6 million high-skill, high-tech and high-paying jobs over the next decade, MFG Day empowers manufacturers to come together to address their collective challenges so they can help their communities and future generations thrive.
Subject matter experts speaking at MAC2021 What the aerospace conference offers The morning begins with attendees and exhibitors connecting in the exhibitor room and an industry update from Kevin Michaels, managing director of AeroDynamic Advisory, a specialty consulting firm focused on the global aerospace and aviation industries. Michaels has 31 years of experience, including hundreds of consulting engagements for leading aviation and aerospace companies across the globe. Following the industry update, breakout sessions will discuss supplier development, emerging technology, workforce and cybersecurity. Emerging technology speakers included Todd Spierling, Collins Aerospace, who discussed “Electrification – the Third Era of Aviation,” and Dr. Frederico Sciammarella, MxD, who discussed “Leveraging Technology in the Future of Manufacturing,” as part of the emerging technologies breakout sessions. Sciammarella is the president and CTO for MxD. He is responsible for the prioritization of projects and determines strategy for the organization. He also is leading the academic outreach engagement and launched a new program targeted for emerging technologies that will connect academics to industry with the goal of bringing up early-stage technology through to later stages of technology readiness. Spierling is a senior fellow for systems engineering with a focus in electrification and is a part of the power & controls engineering organization located in Rockford. In his current role, he provides technical leadership in all elements of aircraft electrification, including electric propulsion, more electric secondary systems, and propulsion, power & thermal management systems. He supports customer technology engagements, new business pursuits and company and corporate level strategic
technology planning. The afternoon will be kicked off with the keynote address by Dr. Ronald M. Sega, Department of Defense highly qualified expert in the role of chief technology officer. Dr. Sega joined U.S. Army Futures Command in July 2019. Prior to his appointment as CTO, Dr. Sega served as director, systems engineering programs at Colorado State University and special assistant to the chancellor for strategic initiatives from September 2013 through June 2019. Prior to joining CSU, Dr. Sega served as undersecretary for the U.S. Air Force from August 2005 to August 2007 leading a team that developed a comprehensive energy strategy emphasizing supply, demand and culture with results in 2006 leading to the receipt of the overall Presidential Award for Leadership in Federal Energy Management for the U.S. Government. He also is a former NASA astronaut and veteran of two shuttle missions and retired from the U.S. Air Force in the rank of major general. The day will conclude with matchmaking, workshops, exhibits and a cocktail reception. If your company would like to participate in the matchmaking session, contact Anna Garrison at AGarrison@RockfordIL. com. RAAN and the RAEDC continue to provide relevant and insightful events for the region. It is the dedication of staff and volunteers that ensure the industry clusters in our region have every opportunity to be successful and continue to flourish. With industry and subject matter experts like these, MAC2021 is the place to be on Oct. 5. For information on attending, the complete agenda and other speakers visit MidwestAerospaceConference.com.
Cybersecurity training for manufacturers Starting Sept. 1, IMEC is offering a 15-part training series for manufacturers, “Make Steady Progress: CMMC Cybersecurity 15-Part Training Series for Manufacturers,” which meets the first Wednesday of every month through October 2022. It’s a deep dive into the certification requirements, along with monthly action steps and support for progress towards Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). This seminar has been described as a self-study program with a coach. Each participating company registration includes: 1. Monthly training. Offered live, with each session recorded and available for on-demand viewing. 2. Resources and materials.
3. Unlimited participants. Attendees can vary from month to month, depending on the training topic. The cybersecurity seminar is possible due to a grant from the Office of Economic Adjustment and the Department of Defense and is hosted by IMEC, a team of improvement specialists and technicians dedicated to providing organizations in Illinois with the tools and techniques to create sustainable competitive futures. Learn more and register for these seminars at RockfordIL.com/events.
Economic development work also reconnects manufacturing supply chains Jerry Sagona, VP of business development, attended the Design-2Part Show in Schaumburg. He uses tradeshows and events like this to continue to create connections and extend the awareness of the Rockford Region to others who are in need of quality parts and innovative solutions. Design-2-Part brings together American-based contract manufacturers with OEMs and product manufacturers who need their services. This allows companies to find suppliers located within the United States. During this threeday event, there are more than 220 exhibitors that feature innovative contract products. These exhibitors feature more than 300 manufacturing categories including metal, plastics, rubber and electronics. Multiple companies from the region were in attendance for the event. This type of tradeshow provides companies with the opportunity to strengthen supply chains during a time when there has been disruption for many manufacturers.
Many of our region’s companies are small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs), and the global supply chain disruption is affecting these companies in new ways; less related to the pandemic and more related to the ability to get materials required to produce products. Some of this can be mitigated through developing relationships with a wide range of suppliers and vendors, which can also be time consuming for already timechallenged manufacturers. Networks and resources can also be found through programs such as the MEP National Network Supplier Scouting Program (nist.gov/mep/supplierscouting) or the Stateline Advanced Manufacturing Network (rockfordil. com/about-raedc/samn). For additional help recreating supply chains for your company, contact Jerry Sagona, VP of business development, GSagona@ RockfordIL.com, or Stephanie Jones, VP of sales, SJones@ RockfordIL.com.
THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com
September 2021 15
Destination
ILLINOIS, USA
ADDING WEALTH TO THE REGION’S ECONOMY BY GROWING TOURISM
JOHN GROH Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Stroll on State planning already underway Many opportunities to join in the fun
We are making our lists and checking them twice at RACVB as we gear up for our Merry and Bright signature event, Stroll on State. After the pandemic year spent celebrating with online events and activities, we are all eager for downtown Rockford to safely come to life once again as families and friends make memories and extend holiday cheer. So how does it all happen? Simply stated, the day would not be possible without the overwhelming generosity and passion of our volunteers and community sponsors. Volunteer efforts will officially start on Sept. 21 when the elves return to Santa’s Workshop at 310 S. Winnebago St. Every Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon, volunteer elves will gather to work their magic in preparing the streetscape decorations. Downtown will be transformed to a
winter wonderland during “Decoration Days,” which take place the weekend of Nov. 19 and 20. Would you like to join us as a volunteer at Santa’s workshop, on Decoration Days or for the Stroll on State event? All are welcome, and we have jobs for all skill sets and abilities. Check out the volunteer section at strollonstate.com for more details. The Stroll on State parade, which kicks off the event on Nov. 27 at 2 p.m., has become a much-anticipated, mustattend event. We encourage businesses, non-profit organizations and civic groups to apply to enter a float to show your pride and help make the Stroll experience even more festive. Not inspired to build your own? Float rentals and balloon sponsorships are available. One of the most prestigious honors in the area is having your tree selected
to shine for all during the tree lighting ceremony on the night of Stroll on State and then throughout the holiday season. This year we are planning to showcase not one, not two, but three trees! Think your spruce is spectacular? Wondering if your pine is perfect? The application and requirements are available at strollonstate.com. This opportunity is ideal for a tree that may have outgrown its space or that needs to be removed for safety concerns. Last but certainly not least, Stroll on State could not happen without our generous sponsors, including Illinois Bank & Trust, The Power Connection – IBEW 364 & NECA, OSF Healthcare, Northwestern Illinois Building Trades Unions, Pierce, PCI, Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 23, Xfinity, ComEd
and FurstStaffing & FurstProfessionals, among others. Their commitment and generosity are a gift to all of us. If you’d like to make support of Stroll on State part of your holiday tradition, additional sponsorships are still available. Contact Martesha Brown at 815-963-8111 to explore options for supporting Stroll. Want to know more? Visit strollonstate.com. Our elves will be busy updating the website throughout the season, so check back often! John Groh is president/CEO of Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. The views expressed are those of Groh’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
Pow(H)er is a conference for all who support, believe in and champion the advancement of women 2020 was an extremely difficult year – especially for women. Join us for a conference celebrating women’s achievements, supporting women through COVID recovery, and educating the community on how to advocate for and champion women in the business community. More information including speaker line up, virtual/in-person attendance opportunities, and award nominations to come.
Platinum Sponsor Edward Jones Erna Colborn, AAMS®, CRPS® Bronze Sponsor
Save the Date: October 28, 2021 Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront & Rockford Conference Center
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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com
legislative
LEGISLATIVE ISSUES Education bills passed with start of school year Gov. Pritzker has signed a number of bills related to education in Illinois. Below are some effective immediately; some by next year.
PHOTO BY NELSON NDONGALA
Senate Bill 564 adds the birthday of Muhammad Ali, Jan. 17, to the list of commemorative school holidays; recognizing patriotic, civic, cultural or historic persons on regular school days.
Bills aim to give students flexibility for religious observance House Bill 160 was passed, effective immediately, requiring school districts to excuse students from engaging in a physical education course during a period of religious fasting. The student’s parent or guardian must notify the school principal in writing that the pupil is participating in a religious fast. Similarly, House Bill 169, effective immediately, allows a student to be absent from public school due to religious reasons, including the observance of a religious holiday or participation in religious instruction. The bill also allows schools to require the parent or guardian of the student to give notice of the absence to school officials. Senate Bill 564, effective Jan. 1, 2022, requires history courses to include the study of the contributions made by Americans of different faith practices, including, but not limited to, Muslim Americans, Jewish Americans, Christian Americans, Hindu Americans, Sikh Americans and Buddhist Americans. It also established Muhammad Ali’s birthday, Jan. 17, as a commemorative school holiday.
Illinois Department of Labor highlights steps to prevent workplace violence Safe working conditions under the federal Occupational Safety and Health Act includes having a plan for workplace violence. Each year, millions of Americans are victimized, and the Department of Justice and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health estimates victims miss 1.8 million days of work each year, costing an estimated $121 billion. It now is one of the leading causes of job-related deaths and occurs most commonly in healthcare, education, and retail and service jobs, such as delivery and ridehailing drivers. OSHA classifies workplace violence into four categories: criminal intent, customer-client, worker-on-worker and personal relationship. Part of preventing workplace violence includes recognizing signs of stress that can lead to the act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation or other threatening disruptive behavior. Establishing a zero-tolerance policy
toward workplace violence against or by employees is the best protection an employer can offer, according to OSHA. But other precautions should also be taken, including: ■ Set parameters. Provide safety education to employees clarifying what conduct is not acceptable, what to do if they witness or experience such conduct and how to protect themselves. ■ Secure the workplace. Surveillance cameras, proper lighting, key or badge entry and guards all can help alleviate possible violence at work. ■ Encourage employees to alert supervisors to any concerns they have about coworkers’ erratic or potentially dangerous behavior, as well as other safety issues they believe could lead to violence at work. ■ Provide for a buddy system for employees who need it in potentially dangerous situations or at night.
HB 557. Requires school districts to allow a dependent of U.S. military personnel to enroll free of tuition if, at the time of enrollment, the child is in temporary housing outside of the school district but will be living within the district within six months. Effective immediately. HB 573. Delays the start date for the Treasurer’s college savings program for newborns from Jan. 1, 2021 to Jan. 1, 2023. Effective immediately. HB 597. Requires each school district to provide contact information for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and for the Crisis Text Line on the back of each student identification card issued by the school district. Effective July 1, 2021. SB 605. Requires each school district, charter school, or alternative school, or any school receiving public funds, to develop an absenteeism and truancy policy. Effective July 1, 2022. HB 26. Establishes new internet accessibility requirements for school districts to ensure that all students with disabilities can fully participate in any curriculum content delivered online. Effective Aug. 1, 2022. HB 1785. Requires a school board to hold at least three public hearings prior to closing a school building unless the building has been deemed unsafe by a licensed entity. Effective immediately. SB 673. Expands the definition of ‘restorative measures’ in the School Code by stipulating that it also means increasing student accountability if the incident of bullying is based on religion, race, ethnicity or any other category that is identified in the Illinois Human Rights Act. Effective immediately. SB 1638. Requires all public universities to provide a report to students containing relevant, independent and accurate data related to the student’s major and the occupational outlook of that field of study. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. HB 15. Requires school districts to provide written notification to a student’s parent or guardian when a student commits an act of misconduct. Effective immediately. HB 18. Allows school districts to perform teacher evaluations every
two or three years, rather than every two years, if the teacher previously received a rating of ‘excellent’ or ‘proficient’. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. HB 41. Requires school districts to provide students and their families the option to send the student to an in-state special education residential facility prior to placing the student in an out-of-state special education residential facility. Effective immediately. HB 576. Expands the range of exemptions from attending school to include the mental and behavioral health of a child. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. HB 816. Modernizes the use of paid sick leave for teaches and other employees of a school district with respect to the birth, adoption or placement for adoption of a child. Effective immediately. SB 633. Requires the Illinois Stated Board of Education’s school report cards to include data on the number of incidents of violence that occurred during school-related activities and resulted in student disciplinary measures. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. SB 1640. Prohibits a school guidance counselor from intentionally soliciting or receiving gifts from prohibitive sources. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. SB 1592. Prohibits insurers from denying or refusing to provide autism diagnosis and treatment services for those under 21 that are otherwise covered solely based on the location where the service is provided. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. SB 698. Requires that state IDs be issued to persons upon release or discharge from the Department of Human Services and prohibits a person convicted of aggravated domestic battery from receiving a school bus driver permit. Effective immediately. SB 812. Requires the State Board of Education to make available on its website the total number of personnel with a school support personnel endorsement, along with other information. Effective Jan. 1, 2022. SB 1610. Requires all higher education institutions to issue a Sexual Misconduct Climate Survey to students on an annual basis. Effective immediately.
THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com
September 2021 17
A Compass For Business
Growth Dimensions Economic Development, Transform Rockford, EIGERlab, Belvidere Area Chamber of Commerce, Rockford Chamber of Commerce, and Illinois Small Business Development (SBDC), along with area resource organizations, launched an entrepreneur resource guide known as COMPASS. With many independent organizations providing entrepreneurial services in Boone and Winnebago Counties and the surrounding area, the region is wellpositioned to be a globally recognized hub for aspiring entrepreneurs and innovative companies. COMPASS links these organizations together, in order to highlight the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem’s capabilities.
Looking at the Bigger Picture COMPASS is a regional tool, developed by professional organizations to provide a roadmap for aspiring and existing business owners. COMPASS provides a holistic view of resources available for entrepreneurs. The document is divided into three primary audiences: Concept/ Start-Up, Established and All Businesses.
Each resource organization is also identified by specialties provided, such as Financial Consulting, Internships / Student Programs, Legal Services, Manufacturing / Logistics, Marketing / Sales, Mentoring / Counseling, Networking / Events, Planning / Management, Research & Development (R&D) / Commercialization, Regulatory Compliance, Selling to Government & Corporations, Space Usage, Workforce / HR / Talent, and serving Minorities & Women. Regional partners from Boone, Winnebago, and Stephenson Counties and surrounding communities spent several months working with local and national organizations to develop this comprehensive resource that will guide entrepreneurs throughout their business lifecycle. COMPASS partners are committed to the success of entrepreneurs, by guiding them to the best network resources throughout their business cycle. Initially working with the National League of Cities, the City of Belvidere, assisted by Growth Dimensions Economic Development, was selected to advance their entrepreneurial ecosystem through a grant funded by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. This enabled Belvidere to begin working with SourceLink®, a provider experienced in bringing together organizations in order to develop a roadmap for entrepreneurs.
Understanding the need for a more regional approach, Growth Dimensions Economic Development began working with Transform Rockford to develop a list of entrepreneur-focused organizations. With their assistance, EIGERlab, Rockford Chamber of Commerce, and SBDC committed additional dollars and talent to provide a robust entrepreneur resource. Additionally, the Belvidere Area Chamber of Commerce joined the strategic partners to provide further insight to needed resources for new and established businesses.
Enthusiastic Endorsements Pamela Lopez-Fettes, Executive Director for Growth Dimensions Economic Development for Belvidere and Boone County stated, “This was a collaborative effort put together by leading entrepreneur-centric organizations. It was an honor and privilege to be able to bring such great minds to the table in developing this unique area resource.” “These conversations and the insight provided by our regional partners really helped develop COMPASS,” stated Spitty Tata, Program Manager for Transform Rockford. “Without their engagement, this resource would not be here today.” Mary McNamara Bernsten, Executive Director of Rockford Area Arts Council, added, “The Rockford Area Arts Council
is pleased to be a COMPASS partner. The Rockford Area Arts Council exists to support, promote, and develop access to the arts for everyone. As the collective voice of individual artists and regional arts organizations, we believe in the transformative power of the arts—and innovation—and its ability to set the tone for a region’s creative and cultural infrastructure.” COMPASS was created for every organization to use in order to assist local entrepreneurs realize their dreams of business ownership. COMPASS is not only a tool for entrepreneurs, creators and innovators, it is also a valuable resource for all partners and the business community. This document is also available to all regional industries and businesses committed to the success of business owners. Banks, law firms, accountants and many other private sectors will be able to utilize COMPASS to guide their own clients to valuable resources needed along their business journey. Mike Cobert, Director of EIGERlab, said, “COMPASS is going to be one of the best resources for entrepreneurs as they continue on their business path. And, we’re excited to continue seeing how the community will use this resource which is specifically designed for our area.” COMPASS can be found at mybizCOMPASS. com.
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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com
in the news
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS
Rockford Chamber members appear bolded. Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members.
1. Jonathan J. Schlemmer
2. Amy Sola
3. Lynn Gibson
4. Lakeferia Vaughn
5. J.J. Wett
6. Rachel Cunningham
7. Chris Davenport
8. Denise Delanty
9. Dr. Jillian Kaskavage
10. Meredith Johnson
11. Alyssa Hardt
12. Matt Quinn
13. Alen Brcic
14. Kimberly Cipra
15. Mary Ann Laudicina
16. Dr. Harjot Thind
BOARD APPOINTMENTS Gordon Eggers, Jr., joined the Goldie B. Floberg board. Jonathan (Jon) J. Schlemmer (1) joined the First National Bank and Trust board. Stan Kottke, Collins Aerospace, and Christina Valdez, CMM & Associates, joined the Crusader Community Health Foundation board. The Golden Apple Foundation of Rockford board voted in new members for 2021-2022: Amy Sola (2), Associated Bank, and Lynn Gibson (3), retired Hononegah District #207 and NIU. Pat Derry, Thomas Kress, Sarilyn Neiber and Jeff Powell retired from the board. Louis Mateus, Mercyhealth Sportscore Complexes general manager for the Rockford Park District, was elected to United States Youth Soccer Association board. Lakeferia Vaughn (4) and J.J. Wett (5) were voted in as new board members for the Regional Access & Mobilization Project, Inc. (RAMP). Craig Fetty and Joe Marshall were voted in for threeyear terms. Elected to the executive committee: Alan Zais as president, Arles Hendershott Love as vice president, Craig Fetty as treasurer, Kim Schweitzer as secretary for a one-year term. Jessica Koltz is past president. The Rockford Area Convention &
17. Wayne Laramie
18. Brad Hertzner
Visitors Bureau board elected the following as officers for one-year terms: Jennifer Furst, chair; John Penney, vice chair; Carol Schuster, treasurer; Tiana McCall, secretary. The following were elected as members for three-year terms: Mick Gronewold, Shelton Kay, Dana Martin, Ricardo Montoya-Picazo and Patrick Thompson.
NEW HIRES, PROMOTIONS, RETIREMENTS Rachel Cunningham (6) joined CoyleKiley as an employee benefits account manager and Chris Davenport (7) as a life insurance advisor. KMK Media Group hired Denise Delanty (8) as a communications specialist. SwedishAmerican welcomed new pediatrician, Dr. Jillian Kaskavage (9), to its Rochelle Clinic. WATT Global Media hired Meredith Johnson (10) as managing editor of Egg Industry Insight and Alyssa Hardt (11) as associate editor. Marilyn Alarcon Flores joined the Loves Park office of Weichert, Realtors® - Tovar Properties. Rosecrance named Matt Quinn (12) as director of Chicagoland for Rosecrance, Inc. Mercyhealth hired Alen Brcic (13) as vice president of people and culture.
19. Dave Weber
20. Paul Connor
Kimberly Cipra (14) joined The Gillette Group-Baird Rockford office as a client assistant and Mary Ann Laudicina (15) transitioned to financial advisor associate and enrolled in Baird’s financial advisor training program. OrthoIllinois welcomed spine surgeon Dr. Harjot Thind (16), who is fellowship-trained with a focus on general cranial and spinal neurosurgery. Wayne Laramie (17), RN, BSN, MBA, NEA-BC, accepted the position of vice president and chief nursing officer for OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center.
of Surgery and Surgical Specialties. Steven Larsen, retiring music director, Rockford Symphony Orchestra, extended his contract through December of 2021 and will conduct his final concerts in the Coronado Performing Arts Center. Mercyhealth welcomed Fafa Xexemeku (23), M.D., FACC, RPVI, board certified cardiologist, to Mercyhealth Heart and Vascular Center–Janesville.
Stillman Bank welcomed Brad Hertzner (18), compliance/BSA officer, and Dave Weber (19), vice president and commercial loan officer.
RAMP hired Jessica Ingenito and Abygail Franklin as Project Search employment specialists, Nicole Eckstein as transition specialist, Tiffany Hughes as youth education advocate, Alicia Elston as office assistant/I&R specialist and Tayanna Clark as marketing & outreach coordinator.
Paul Connor (20) joined M3 Insurance as vice president of property and casualty.
Studio GWA hired Caryssa Buchholz, AIA, as a project architect in the Rockford office.
The Chicago Blackhawks hired Ryan Snider as president, business operations of the Rockford IceHogs.
Ben Campion (24) joined Kelce & Company as finance manager and Samantha Anthony (25) as office manager. The dog, Dil (26), joined as the new greeter.
OrthoIllinois welcomed Dr. Mark Oyer (21), who specializes in adult total and revision hip and knee replacement and is accepting new patients at the Riverside Clinic. University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford named Fazlur R. Zahurullah (22), M.D., MBA, FACS, as chair of the Department
21. Dr. Mark Oyer
22. Dr. Fazlur R. Zahurullah
Sallini Kalachandran, M.D. (27), and Yahiya Syed, M.D. (28), were named co-chief residents for the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford Family Medicine Residency Program. Continued on page 19
23. Dr. Fafa Xexemeku
24. Ben Campion
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MEMBERS IN THE NEWS
25. Samantha Anthony
26. Dil
27. Dr. Sallini Kalachandran
28. Dr. Yahiya Syed
29. Dr. Ian Behr
30. Dr. John Myers
31. Scott C. Sullivan
32. Dr. Scott Trenahile
(continued from page 18) OSF HealthCare welcomed Ian Behr, M.D. (29), as a new endocrine surgeon at the OSF Medical Group – surgery office in Rockford.
EMPLOYEE/COMMUNITY RECOGNITIONS, AWARDS John Myers, M.D. (30), FACS, FACC, HMDC, medical director, Northern Illinois Hospice, received the Hospice Medical Director Certified credential by the Hospice Medical Director Certification Board. Forest City Gear recognized Jeff Mains, director of technical operations, for 10 years; Ingrid West, purchasing & expediting coordinator, for 10 years, and Kent Blatchford, CTO process engineer, for 20 years. Rockford Housing Authority celebrated Lifeforce Development Institute graduates: Debra Simpkins, Ana Medina, Carol Lyons and Nina Allen, and FSS graduates: Shameka Hawkins, Tabaika Robinson and Lakeisha Hill. Judson University honored Chief Justice Susan Christensen with the 2021 Alumnus of the Year Award. Lynn Long, Rev. Ken Morgan, Nancy (DeRolf) Morgan and Tim Schofield received 2021 Distinguished Alumni Awards. Angel Rivera, Weichert, Realtors® - Tovar Properties, completed the Weichert Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. Fast Track training program. Lea Evers, financial advisor, Edward
on digital
MEMBER PICS
Hidden Creek Estates hosted a ribbon cutting and grand opening on July 29 at 13276 White School, Roscoe. They offer a beautiful setting for weddings, special events, and community events.
Jones in Roscoe, was authorized by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards to use the certification mark CFP®. Rockford Area Arts Council announced that pastel painter, Nancie King Mertz, won the Best in Show award from the Pastel Society of the West Coast. Scott C. Sullivan, (31) partner, WilliamsMcCarthy LLP, was selected by his peers for inclusion in the 28th edition of The Best Lawyers in America© in commercial litigation. This is the eighth straight year for this recognition.
AGHL Law Firm (Allen Galluzzo Hevrin Leake, LLC) hosted a ribbon cutting on Aug. 5 at 6735 Vistagreen Way, Suite 110, Rockford.
OF GENERAL INTEREST State Senator Dave Syverson (R-Rockford) was keynote speaker at the I-39 State of the Market Symposium on July 23 discussing trends in transportation, rail, data centers and industrial development. He presented a $1,500 check in August to representatives of the Boone County Fair Association from his pay raise from the Illinois fiscal year 2022 budget. Surgeon Scott Trenhaile, M.D. (32), OrthoIllinois, coauthored “FullThickness Rotator Cuff Tears Can be Safely Treated With a Resorbable Bioinductive Bovine Collagen Implant: One-Year Results of a Prospective Multicenter Registry,” slated for an upcoming edition of Arthroscopy, Sports Medicine, and Rehabilitation. Currently published in The Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine.
OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center and Saint Anthony College of Nursing hosted a ribbon-cutting and blessing ceremony on Aug. 17 for a dedicated education unit on the cardiovascular care unit of 2 North inside OSF Saint Anthony. Eight senior nursing students will take part in the inaugural program for the fall semester; working side-by-side with expert nurses on real-life experiences in patient care.
Are you a Member with News to Share? Send news releases and other items of interest to the business community to: The VOICE, Rockford Chamber of Commerce 308 W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, IL 61101
Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding p ublication
Ambassador on the move — long-time Ambassador Mary Ann Gaunt working Brat Days for Alpine Kiwanis Club.
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business
BUSINESS BRIEFS
Boylan Catholic High School has combined efforts with Rockfordarea Catholic grade schools to recruit new students for preschool, grade school, middle school and high school using a multi-media marketing campaign: All Saints Catholic Academy, St. Bridget School, St. Rita Catholic School and Holy Family Catholic School. Social media posts, e-blasts and a postcard mailer was sent to area households in August. Fehr Graham launched a fully redesigned website at fehrgraham. com in partnership with KMK Media Group. Financial Advisor ranked Savant Wealth Management as No. 43 in its 2021 RIA Ranking of more than 600 RIAs across the nation; the 13th consecutive year it’s made the list. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources approved more than $131,400 in funding through the National Park Service’s Historic Preservation Fund for nine projects, including $19,000 to the City of Rockford for a comprehensive survey of historic industrial buildings built between 1850 and
1930. The city will provide $7,000. Barbara Olson Center of Hope received a grant from The Blazer Foundation to purchase a new small SUV for transferring individuals with developmental disabilities into the community. V2 Marketing & Management recently organized, promoted and facilitated the annual Summer Dance Workshop for the Chicago National Association of Dance Masters (CNADM) in Oak Brook, IL. The in-person event featured four different workshops with 400 dance teachers and students in attendance over the five days. The Rockford IceHogs announced its 72-game, 2021-22 regularseason schedule; starting on Friday, Oct. 15 against the Grand Rapids Griffins at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Mich. Opening Night at BMO Harris Bank Center is Saturday, Nov. 6 against the Griffins. SwedishAmerican, a division of UW Health, opened its District 100 Wellness Center, an employer-based health clinic exclusive to the employees and dependents of
Rockford Chamber members appear bolded. Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members.
Belvidere School District 100, at 1320 E. Ave., in Belvidere. It’s SwedishAmerican’s fifth and most recent employer-based clinic in the area. Mercyhealth celebrated 25 years of the House of Mercy Homeless Center in Janesville. Since 1996, more than 8,000 individuals — half children under 5 — have been given a safe, warm place to sleep, as well as financial assistance for housing, tenant education, transportation, child care and prescription co-pays. The thrift store, Re•Tag•It Thrift Shop, provides residents with access to free clothing and sells quality donated goods. City First Church hosted “Hope Now, Hope Always,” Aug. 1 to 8. It collected donations for backpacks of new school supplies for 2,000 students at Ellis Elementary, Constance Lane Elementary, Haskell Elementary, Carlson Elementary, McIntosh Elementary and Cherry Valley Elementary. Marco Technologies presented Midway Village Museum with a $1,000 check raised during “Marco Gold Standard Week,” in which Facebook followers nominated non-profits and organizations in a 12-state area. The Mercyhealth Prehospital and Emergency Services Center celebrated the graduation of its 33rd paramedic class of eight students on July 28. The paramedic program meets the requirements for education of paramedics as recommended by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Savant Wealth Management announced its plans to acquire Treybourne Wealth Planners, an Indiana-based registered investment advisory firm. The acquisition of Michigan-based AMDG Financial and AMDG Business Advisory Services closed on June 30. Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau estimated that the Tough Mudder race, Aug. 14 and 15 at the Chicago Rockford International Airport, drew 7,000 people on Saturday and 1,500 on Sunday. It was estimated to result in $1.2 million dollars in economic impact/spending. Per Mar Security Services acquired Armor Security, a residential and commercial security and locksmith provider in the Twin Cities, Minn. The company received the prestigious Five Diamond Certification from The Monitoring Association for meeting the five points of excellence. Brian Thomas Photography partnered with Tim Larson Dingus for the book cover images of his latest published release, The Power of Props: Life lessons for any gathering. Brian placed the visual aids used in decades of Tim’s speeches. Available on Amazon.com.
V2 Marketing & Management recently organized, promoted and facilitated a five-day online Summer Course for the National Association of Printing Ink Manufacturers (NAPIM), which included creating two course books for the attendees. Rockford Park District’s Therapeutic Recreation Fall 2021 Program Guide is available free at rockfordparkdistrict.org/therapeutic. Fall program registration is open. RAMP has partnered with the Tommy Corral Memorial Foundation to provide a variety of educational programming, alternative therapies, technical and accessibility assessments and disability awareness training in Winnebago County, thanks in part to funding from the Winnebago County Community Mental Health Board. The “Bring the Chair Home” fundraising campaign reached its goal in two weeks, resulting in the return of the Frank Lloyd Wrightdesigned chair to Laurent House. The chair is one of six pieces of furniture Wright designed for the home of Ken and Phyllis Laurent. The current owner offered to sell it back to the Laurent House Foundation at his cost of $11,700. The National Blood Testing Cooperative added Rock River Valley Blood Center to its list of 15 nonprofit blood centers located throughout the country. Since 2019, NBTC has provided high-quality testing services, at cost, to its owner-members by eliminating unnecessary profit markups that large testing entities charge. Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau and Rockford Park District welcomed the 2021 National Junior College Athletic Association Opening Weekend Tournament, Aug. 20 to 22, at UW Health Sports Factory. The event drew teams from Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, Florida and Texas. Visitors were projected to spend an estimated $135,000. RAMP is offering disability awareness trainings with presenters who use real life experiences to help others understand that having a disability is just another aspect of life. The organization also offers onsite technical/accessibility assessments for businesses concerned about their compliance with the ADA or wishing to improve accessibility for their employees or customers. Coronado Performing Arts Center has implementing its VenueShield program with the reopening in August. It’s one of more than 325 ASM Global facilities to use the advanced environmental hygiene and operational protocol.
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community
COMMUNITY EVENTS & WEBINARS
SEPTEMBER 2021 SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 Rockford Park District presents Camping 101: Creating an Outdoor Oasis, 9 to 11 a.m., at Atwood Center, Seth B. Atwood Park, 2685 New Milford School Road, Rockford. Advance registrations recommended at www.atwoodpark.org/programs.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 Illinois Institute of Nursing Studies, Inc., 2222 E. State St., Suite #A104, Rockford, launches its three-week Certified Nursing Assistant Training Program starting Sept. 7. The institute is partnered with the American Red Cross and a certified provider of Red Cross training. Call 779-770-9967 or www. illinoiscnatraining.com.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 Anderson Japanese Gardens presents Portraits in the Garden, 5 to 7 p.m. Photography sitting fees waived to the public for senior photos, engagement photos, birth announcements, family portraits and other special occasion photography. Cost is regular admission. No homecoming groups, wedding parties or commercial photography sessions. Register at www. AndersonGardens.org.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 International Women’s Baseball Center Annual Golf Scramble, 9:30 a.m., at Ingersoll Golf Course, 101 Daisyfield Road, #1300, Rockford. Register at www.eventbrite.com. Rockford Park District presents Flix on the Farm, 8 to 9:30 p.m., a family-friendly outdoor movie at Lockwood Park, 5201 Safford Road. Sept. 10 is Rio and Oct. 15 is Greatest Snowman. Parking lot opens one hour prior to movie start time. Restrooms available. Cost is $12 per vehicle. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Visit at lockwoodpark.com/flix.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful hosts a Fall Clothing Drive, at 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at various locations. Welcome are clean clothing, wearable or not, pillows, bedding, fabric, purses, belts, shoes, softsided luggage and stuffed toys. Visit knib.org.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 OrthoIllinois hosts a Rehab Explorer Program, 9 a.m. to noon, at 5875 E. Riverside Blvd., for high school and junior college students interested in physical therapy. Tickets are available at Eventbrite. com or call Jon Gallas or Heather Riley at 815-398-9491.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 Rockford Park District hosts Couples Nights, Sept. 14 and 28, at Aldeen Golf Club, 1902 Reid Farm Road. Tee times begin at 5 p.m. Call the Aldeen Golf Shop, 815-2824653, ext. 2. NIU Lifelong Learning Institute kicks off its fall informal online learning sessions for community members of all ages. Runs Sept. 14 to Nov. 4 with six weekly classes on topics ranging from women artists to Japanese history to volcanoes. Register at go.niu.edu/lli.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 RAMP presents its Bad Pants Open, nine-hole golf scramble at Timber Pointe Golf Club, 5750 Woodstock Road, Poplar Grove. Registration at 2 p.m.; shotgun start at 3 p.m. Dinner and prizes to follow. Register at give.classy.org/badpants or contact marketing@rampcil.org or 815-721-0166.
FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 17 Winnebago County CASA hosts Oktoberfest “Around The World” Golf Outing, a scramble format at Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford. Noon registration; 1 p.m., shotgun start. Food and drinks from Germany, France, Thailand, Australia and Mexico. Tickets at winnebagocountycasa.org. Rockford Park District presents Glow in the Garden, 6 to 9 p.m., at Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. 2nd St. Visit www. nicholasconservatory.com/glow-inthe-garden.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18
Rockford Chamber members appear bolded. Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members.
educator Grant McCarty. Register by Sept. 21 to receive the Zoom link. Free; donations accepted. Visit go. illinois.edu/jsw or 815-986-4357. The Petfood Forum hosted by WATT Global Media takes place Sept. 22 to 24 in Kansas City, Mo. Visit PetfoodForumEvents.com for details.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 Tickets are on sale for Blippi The Musical, 6 p.m., at Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford. Visit coronadopac.org. Rock House Kids hosts its annual fundraiser, Streets & Sweets, 6 to 8:30 p.m., at the Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, 200 S. Bell School Road, Rockford. Funds the Rock House Kids Expansion, Help for Today … Hope for Eternity. For tickets contact Nicole Bergren, 815-965-0567, ext. 111, or nicole. bergren@rockhousekids.org.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful hosts a Golf Play Day fundraising event at Timber Pointe Golf Course, 5750 Woodstock Road, Poplar Grove. Shotgun start at 9 a.m. Games, prizes, food and beverages included. Sign up at www.knib.org. The Purple for Peace Playday, a fundraiser for the Family Peace Center, takes place at Mauh-NahTee-See Club, 5151 Guilford Road, Rockford. Registration at 11:30 a.m.; lunch at noon; shotgun start at 1 p.m. Cocktail hour to follow. Visit www.815givesadamn.com/golfouting-2021 to register.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 26
Rockford Park District presents Here We Go, A-Fossiling, 1 to 3 p.m., at Atwood Center, Seth B. Atwood Park, 2685 New Milford School Road. Registration recommended at www.atwoodpark. org/programs.
Comedian Louis C.K. performs at 7:30 p.m., at Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford. Tickets at coronadopac. org/events.
First National Bank and Trust hosts a free Shred Day, 9 a.m. to noon, at its branch at 5360 Bridge St., Roscoe.
Mayor Tom McNamara headlines the 23rd annual Fall Human Resources & Benefits Seminar, hosted by 2HB Human Resources And Benefit Solutions Group, 8 a.m. to noon, at the Radisson Convention Center, 200 S. Bell School Road, Rockford. Other speakers: Attorney Eileen Caver, Allen Galluzzo Hevrin Leake, LLC; Holly Waldhoff, Chubb Workplace Benefits, and Laurie S. Miller, 2HB. RSVP by Sept. 24 with William Duval, 815-977-3496, ext. 211, or wduval@2HBSolutions.com.
kw Color Run 2021, 10 a.m., Sinnissippi Park, N. 2nd St., Rockford. Register at www.raceroster.com. Search “KW Color Run.”
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 Rockford Network of Professional Women hosts its Kickoff Celebration, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Prairie Street Brewing Company, 200 Prairie St., Rockford. Register by Sept. 16. Visit rockfordnetwork.org.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 University of Illinois – Extension Winnebago County hosts Falling into the Autumn Vegetable Garden, a virtual program at noon with
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 Rockford Park District’s Learn to Skate and Jr. IceHogs/Learn to Play Hockey programs kick off for all ages at Carlson Ice Arena in Loves Park. Visit www.rockfordparkdistrict. org/skating or call 815-969-4069.
OCTOBER 2021 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1 The Rockford Area Arts Council, City of Rockford, Rockford Public Library and City of Rockford Poet Laureate and Youth Laureate presents the first biannual ArtScene Poetry Kick-Off. Applications due Sept. 15. Those 16 and older chosen will read their poems live at Rockford City Hall at 4 p.m. Submit application at artsforeveryone. com/artscene.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 6 Foreign Trade Zone #176, administered by Zethmayr LLC, hosts its Annual Meeting, 4 to 6 p.m., at the Greater Rockford Airport Authority, 60 Airport Dr. Features a keynote from Harry Moser, founder of the Reshoring Initiative. Register at ftz-176.eventbrite. com.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7 The Accelerating Creatives & Entrepreneurs (ACE) Conference & Expo takes place Oct. 7 and 8 at the Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. Information on starting and growing a business; connect with business influencers, partners, innovators, creators and entrepreneurs. Organized by Transform Rockford, Illinois Small Business Development Center, EIGERlab, Rockford Public Library, Growth Dimensions, Greater Freeport Partnership and Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. Visit www.theaceevent.com.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 8 Boz Scaggs performs his new album, Out of the Blues, 7:30 p.m., Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford. Tickets at coronadopac. org/events.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 16 Get the Led Out performs 8 p.m., at Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford. Tickets at coronadopac.org/events. First National Bank and Trust hosts a free Shred Day, 9 a.m. to noon, at its branch at 300 E. Main St., Rockton.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 20 Alignment Rockford hosts the 10th annual Academy Expo, 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., at Indoor Sports Center MercyHealth Sportscore 2, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park. Helps RPS 205 Freshmen select their College and Career Academy for Sophomore year. Contact Jessica Hayes at jessica@alignmentrockford.com.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 24 A cappella group Straight No Chaser comes to Rockford to perform, “Back In The High Life,” 7 p.m., at the Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford. Tickets at coronadopac.org/events.
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MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS Thank you to members who renewed with the Rockford Chamber of Commerce in July 2021 Angler Motors Inc. Ascension Living Saint Anne Place Auto Body Specialist Inc. Berg Industries, Inc. Bill Doran Company Bisconti Computers Inc. BMO Harris Bank Connect Hearing CORA Physical Therapy Alpine Road CORA Physical Therapy - Belvidere CORA Physical Therapy - Byron CORA Physical Therapy Poplar Grove Dale Carnegie Training of Greater Illinois, Inc. Easterseals Easterseals - The Autism Program Easterseals Teen and Family Support Ethnic Heritage Museum/ Graham-Ginestra House Event Floral Focus Financial Advisors Forest City Gear Co. Getz Fire Equipment Company Gleason Cutting Tools Corporation Greenlee Howe Freightways, Inc. HUB-REMSEN Print Group Humana Illinois Cafe & Service Company, LLC Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC) Illumination.io JC Precision Milling, LLC Johnny Pamcakes K&J Finishing, Inc. Kelce & Company
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria Mary’s Market Mindy Joy Photography Morgan Building Maintenance Inc. Mr. Goodwater, Inc. Northern Illinois Hospice Northern Public Radio (WNIU/WNIJ/NIRIS) NyClo Screw Machine Products PACCAR Parts, A Division of PACCAR Physicians Immediate Care Prairie Street Brewing Co. RBG Janitorial Radisson Hotel & Conference Center Residence Inn by Marriott/Rockford Rock River Service Company Rockford Art Museum Rockford Board of Election Commissioners Rockford Electric Equipment Company Rockford Generation Rockford Local Development Corporation Rockford Lutheran School Rockford Register Star Rockford United Labor RU Recovery Ministry Secure Staffing Servpro of Rockford Sinnissippi Apartments Inc. Spectrum Insurance Agency, Inc. Stockholm Inn The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Northern Illinois UNION Savings BANK William Charles Construction
NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS AA CAD SERVICES LLC
KANEY, INC.
Drafting Services, 3D Modeling, Rendering, Mechanical Drawing and 3D Printing Services 6927 Winterberry Road Loves Park, IL 61111 Ali Al Thajil 815-909-2345 www.aacadservices.com
Aerospace and medical gear, actuators, manufacturing engineering expertise, test equipment, lab design 1300 Capital Dr., 61109 Heather Spillare 815-986-4359 www.kaney.com
THE BROKEN WINGS CLUB
N.S.E.W. ASPHALT COMPANY AND TREE SERVICES
Advocates for the incarcarated and ex-offenders Pinky Langdon 630-666-5438 www.thebrokenwingsclub.org
Honest and Professional for Sealcoating, Paving, Patching and Crack Filling 15 N. Anderson St. Aurora, IL 60505 Roy Del Real 630-552-5697 www.nsewasphalt.com
HUGHES RESOURCES Staffing firm specializing in light industrial, administrative and professional, with offices currently in four locations. 327 W. Exchange St. Freeport, IL 61032 Vanessa Hughes 815-847-4000 www.hughesresources.com
NORTHWEST RECOVERY Professional Private Parking Towing Services 622 Tay St., 61101 Jason Senne 847-255-7360 www.northwestrecovery.com
SEPTEMBER MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES Thank you to our members celebrating their anniversaries with the Rockford Chamber of Commerce
35-YEAR MEMBER
10-YEAR MEMBERS
Ascension Living Saint Anne Place
Come Together Rockford First National Bank and Trust Rockton First National Bank and Trust Roscoe Giuseppe Verdi Society/Verdi Club
25-YEAR MEMBERS Dale Carnegie Training of Greater Illinois, Inc. Thayer Lighting, Inc.
20-YEAR MEMBER Nelson Fire Protection
5-YEAR MEMBERS
Digital hive Mind Springfield Electric Supply Company
aMBaSSaDOR SPOTLIGHT Pinky Langdon, Rockford NAACP Branch 3028 At the Rockford NAACP Branch 3028 we work to disrupt inequality, dismantle racism and accelerate change in key areas including criminal justice, health care, education, climate and the economy. My favorite thing to do in Rockford is to enjoy the symphony, theater, the gardens and museums. We all have our reasons for becoming an ambassador. Mine was feeling that there was a lack of diversity. If you are a young professional, and part of the chamber, it would be in your best interest to be an ambassador. It gives you the opportunity to meet other members that you may not otherwise interact with. In short, this is one of the best perks of being a member.
THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com
September 2021 23
CHaMBER
ADVERTISERS INDEX
CHAMBER EVENTS & WEBINARS Rockford Chamber members appear bolded. Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members.
SEPTEMBER, 2021 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 Ribbon Cutting at Tilted 10/Tilt Studio, 10 to 11 a.m., 7200 Harrison Ave., Space S-01, Rockford. RSVPs to vpeek@tiltstudio.com appreciated.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 Government Affairs Council, 7:30 to 9 a.m., Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St., Rockford. Features Dr. Sandra Martell, Public Health Administrator, Winnebago County Health Department. Sponsored by AT&T.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 Breakfast Buzz, 8 to 9:30 a.m., PURI School of Business, 5100 E. State St., Rockford. Sponsored by RSM US LLP.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 Business Women’s Council, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford. Sponsored by Associated Bank.
OCTOBER, 2021 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1 Ribbon Cutting at LADIWORKZ, 2 to 3 p.m., 730 N. Church St., Ste. 101, 102, 103, Rockford.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7 Rockford Chamber of Commerce Mayor’s Business Address with Tom McNamara, 11:30 a.m. at Radisson Hotel & Conference Center,
200 S. Bell School Rd., Rockford. Sponsored by BMO Harris Bank (presenting), Comcast Business (silver), Van Matre Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital (bronze) and Mindy Joy Photography (photography).
ACE Conference and Expo. . . . . . . 13
Mercyhealth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Blackhawk Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Northern Public Radio . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Comcast Business. . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
OSF HealthCare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Entré Computer Solutions . . . . . . . 13
Rockford Chamber of Commerce
Illinois Bank & Trust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
. . . . . . . . . . 4, 6, 9, 11, 15, 20, 22, 23
The Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC). . . . . 12
Stillman Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
VOICE
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 8
Government Affairs Council, 7:30 to 9 a.m., Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St., Rockford. Sponsored by AT&T.
Thayer Lighting, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
the
Chamber Staff / Call 815-987-8100...........................................Direct Line Caitlin Pusateri, Executive Vice President...............................................815-316-4337
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 13
Heidi M. Garner, Chief Operating Officer..................................... 815-316-4312
Breakfast Buzz, 8 to 9:30 a.m., PURI School of Business, 5100 E. State St., Rockford. Sponsored by RSM US LLP.
Lynette Jacques, Vice President, Member Investment.. ................... 815-316-4317
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21 Business Women’s Council, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford. Sponsored by Associated Bank.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 22 IGNITE Lunch with a Leader — Luz Ramirez, noon to 1 p.m., YWCA Northwestern Illinois, 4990 E. State St., Rockford. Event also will be streamed via Facebook Live! BYO lunch!
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 27 Ribbon Cutting at Restore Counseling & Recovery, 1 to 2 p.m., 7399 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park. Celebrating the new office.
Jeff Bailey, Membership Development Executive...................................815-316-4336 Olivia Guzman, Administrative Assistant/Customer Service Rep...........815-987-8100 Doug Hessong, Director of Publications & Technology.................... 815-316-4338 Carmen Kellerman, Program & Event Coordinator ..............................815-316-4302 Kristin Muehlfelder, Member Relations....................................................815-316-4315 Doug Rand, Accounting Manager/Controller................................ 815-316-4316 Joan Sundvall, Membership Contact Coordinator.......................... 815-316-4320 Einar K. Forsman, President & CEO........................................... 815-987-8100 Edward Caceres, Director, Small Business Development Center....................................................815-987-8100
CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS & OFFICERS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
DIRECTORS
Chair of the Board Dan Ross Community Foundation of Northern Illinois Vice Chair Jean Crosby Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Crosby Starck Real Estate Vice Chair Don Daniels
Michael F. Iasparro Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP
LaVonne Brown Savant Wealth Management Samuel J. Castree Staff Management, Inc. Lesly Couper workplace Doug Curry Stenstrom Construction Group Rebecca Epperson Chartwell Agency
Treasurer Amy Ott Boylan Catholic High School
Eric Fulcomer, Ph.D. Rockford University Ira Grimmett Collins Aerospace Tim Honquest Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory
Carly LaMonica LaMonica Beverages, Inc. Kris L. Kieper Machajewski YWCA Northwestern Illinois Mike Paterson Mid-West Family Broadcasting Joel A. Prah Mercyhealth Denise Sasse RSM US LLP John Schuster Rosecrance Health Network
Alex Stagnaro-Green, MD, MHPE, MHA Univ. of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford Karl Swanson Illinois Bank & Trust Robert Young Midwest Packaging and Container
EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS Einar K. Forsman President & CEO, Rockford Chamber of Commerce John Groh Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Teresa Sharp American Precision Supply, Inc.
OCTOBER VOICE SPECIAL SECTIONS Improving Health (Innovations & Technology for Staying Strong & Well)
Moving Forward (Keeping Your Financial Plans on Track)
Celebration of Manufacturing in Our Region (The Future of Manufacturing & Technology)
For information on advertising, call 815
987-8100
