November Voice 2023

the November 2023 | Volume 36 | No. 11

of the rockford business community

DON’T LOSE YOUR FOCUS MARK TICHGELAAR

HELPING YOUR BUSINESS NAVIGATE SOCIAL MEDIA KATRYNA KIRBY

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IMPROVING BIRTH EXPERIENCES

A.I. in Rockford

Too many women in the U.S. die during the prenatal period, at delivery or within one year of giving birth due to complications and other pregnancy associated issues. Black women are two times as likely to die from pregnancy related complications as White women. And over 91% of pregnancy related deaths are preventable.

How businesses and schools are using AI tools to innovate and succeed

By Andrew Wright, Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce Generated artificial intelligence, AI, is an emerging tool used in schools and workplaces to help generate content by using predictive processing based on complex data and information resources accessible through the internet.

Programs like ChatGPT and Google’s Bard have emerged as front-runners for processing data into natural language based on prompts given by the user.

Graphic designers are using AI to help resize and clarify digital images, match fonts and create motion from static images for online use. AI tools can help users find royalty free images or generate ideas for designs and images based on sources within their vast libraries.

Local healthcare systems, along with the Winnebago County Health Department (WCHD), are partnering with moms to improve birth experiences.

But how are people in Rockford using AI technology in their workplace? Who is using AI tools effectively, and how can learning AI help us prepare for the future?

“It’s a tool. Use it.

Don’t be afraid.”

Michael Laskonis is a senior graphic designer for marketing firm Chartwell Agency, and he saw the writing on the wall that AI was on its way when it became part of the Adobe Creative Cloud.

“The new technology helped save significant time when it came to handling photographs,” he said.

The Adobe Firefly technology allowed users to enhance brightness and crispness of images like Photoshop, using computer learning to help achieve the most frequently desired results. Filling, expanding and recoloring could be done using filters or basic instructions rather than hours of tedious pixel correction.

“In the past few years, my concentration has been in producing video. Seven years ago, I believed that video [would] be how marking is carried out, specifically via social media,” Laskonis said. “Social media has become the default internet.”

As Laskonis’ children discovered apps (continued on page 8)

Pow(H)er Surge Conference 2023

Championing the advancement of professional women

By Andrew Wright, Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce

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Join the Chamber on Social Media

The Voice is online at rockfordchamber.com

On Thursday, November 16, the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce will present Pow(H)er, a full-day conference supporting and championing the advancement of professional women, presented by AT&T. The conference will be held at Prairie Street Brewing Company, 200 Prairie St, Rockford.

“We are proud, once again, to host these incredible leaders. The conference presenters represent the diverse voices of women entrepreneurs, founders, and CEOs from prominent local, regional and national businesses. Speakers will talk about the skills and tools that helped advance their careers and grow their companies in highly competitive markets,” said Caitlin Pusateri, president of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Conference attendees can select a series of seminars from a wide variety of

topics, including how to develop a plan for advancement, finding the right worklife balance, building a leadership legacy, or creating a lifestyle that is rewarding and satisfying. Attendees can also create a customized track based on the topics they find most appealing.

The Women-in-Business Luncheon will feature keynote speaker, Pamela Cohen, Ph.D. Cohen is the chief researcher and analytics officer at The Mom Project/Werklabs, a platform that connects talented women with rewarding employment opportunities and helps companies better understand ways to attract and retain a diverse workforce.

Her keynote speech will focus on how women supporting other women in the workplace can make a pivotal, positive difference in their career trajectory. (continued on page 17)

If you’re pregnant, thinking about becoming pregnant, or have had a baby in the past year, partner with your healthcare team to better your care.

Connect • Get support from the community around you, use 211 to find resources.

• Connect with WCHD for support before, during and after giving birth.

• Keep your healthcare team connected and informed of any emergency department visits. Make sure emergency department staff know you are or were pregnant for up to one year after giving birth.

Inform • Know what respectful care looks like. Visit WCHD website to find out more.

• Speak up if you are not receiving respectful care. Talk to a care provider you feel comfortable with, or work with your doula, partner or other care team member to advocate.

• Complete the survey you receive if you give birth in a hospital. This survey is anonymous and will provide feedback on your care to improve future care.

• Know the urgent maternal warning signs for pregnancyrelated complications.

Thrive • Write down where to call for pregnancy-related complications or concerns.

• Schedule your postpartum follow-up care visits before leaving the birthing center or hospital.

• Ensure you are discharged with the support and resources to care for yourself and your baby.

For more information, go www.publichealth.wincoil.gov/ betteryourcare.

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

November 2023

PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE

In our fast-paced, ever-changing world, it’s easy to get caught

The art of gratitude

up in the rush of our daily lives, often taking the simplest and

Finding happiness in being thankful

CAITLIN PUSATERI president, Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce

One of my favorite parts of the day are the moments my kids get their jams on. Lately, my 4 year old has been encouraging my 2 year old to “blast off!” (run away) after he tells Alexa to play Jingle Bells (yes, it’s October). They both run through our small upstairs, laughing as they run into each other as they run away from me. My husband hates it because it gets them all riled up before bed. I love it because it’s joy in its most simplistic form (and I don’t put our 2 year old down so I don’t deal with the consequences).

In our fast-paced, ever-changing world, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush of our daily lives, often taking the simplest and most profound things for granted. There are lots of moments in childrearing that I dread or hurry along. Bath time always involves me getting soaked as well as everything within a 10 ft radius. Someone’s crying because something is in their eyes. I

never have the right towel when I need it. My kids love bath time, but I have a hard time finding joy in it. But recently, as I was mopping up all the water all over the floor, I couldn’t help but smile as I thought about how hard my son laughed as he splashed his sister… and she laughed, too.

When I’m practical and not overtired or caught up in the moment, I know that a shift in perspective could lead to a happier, more fulfilled life. If I practice gratitude more, I will probably have attitude less (don’t hate me – I couldn’t resist).

Gratitude, the practice of acknowledging and appreciating the good things in life, has been the subject of numerous scientific studies, all of which point to its incredible power in fostering well-being. When we express gratitude, whether through words, actions, or simply our thoughts, we’re effectively rewiring our brains to focus on the positive aspects of life. This shift

most profound things for granted. in perspective can lead to increased happiness, improved mental health, and better relationships.

The funny thing? I hate these kind of practices. They feel cheesy and forced.

Journalling? I do it for about 10 minutes and then never again until I buy a new, beautiful journal that was on sale that certainly will shift my love of the practice.

Sitting down to think of three things that I’m grateful for each day feels awkward and sometimes sad when they are hard to find. Thinking about how much I have when I want something else usually just ticks me off.

See the problem here? I think someone named Taylor labeled it well: It’s me… hi…

Gratitude doesn’t have to be a forced journal entry or a weird awkwardness if it doesn’t fit. It’s more important that, more often than not, it’s the mindset we choose, a way of looking at the world, and an appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us.

This November, opportunities for gratitude abound. And while I’ll cherish the obvious ones on Thanksgiving Day, I think I’m ready to commit to a bit more.

I’m in a “hard era” right now. My professional life is busy and specific work involves some levels of uncertainty or reconfiguring as we continue forward in our merger. My home life is filled with chaos of raising young kids. There are toys EVERYWHERE. My table is never clean. There always seems to be a new “problem” that pops up – whether its illness or temper tantrums, development questions or sleepless nights. Little kids are full of joy, spitfire, and sugar.

A crazy combination. It weighs on my emotionally, mentally, physically, and financially. Goodness, I love my kids.

And goodness, parenting is hard.

Gratitude isn’t my first go-to tool in my toolbelt. But as we enter a busy, sugarfilled, glittery season of excess I’m going to make sure I take more time to smile when my kids are wet in the bath. Soak in the late-night run arounds. Dance and sing to Jingle Bells on the 20th time when I think I might go insane. I’m pretty sure all of that is what gratitude looks like for me right now. I guess my new journal will just have to wait.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

November 2023

GUEST COLUMNIST

Don’t lose your focus The importance of having a company vision and a strategy to reach it

MARK TICHGELAAR, The Alternative Board of Rockford

Every business needs a vision. Most business owners have a vision of where they want to go when they start their company. Although it might not be fully defined, they know their market and competitors, customer profile, revenue/ sales goals and geographic area.

Then they get on the “business-owner treadmill,” put their head down, and away they go. A few years later, they look up and wonder how they ended up where they are. All too frequently, it’s not where they wanted to be—poor work/ life balance, sluggish cash flow, missed revenue targets, inadequate customer mix, high employee turnover, and minimal strategy.

Imagine going on a road trip…

You set your destination on your GPS, decide on an optimal route and head out. But instead of listening to the GPS instructions, you put it on mute, because it’s kind of annoying. You’d much rather listen to your favorite artist on Spotify.

After driving a couple of hours, you look down at your GPS and realize you are way off track because you missed your turnoff. So much for the optimal route you started out on.

To avoid ending up somewhere you don’t want to be, it’s good practice to review your vision regularly and make course corrections as needed.

Personal vision vs. company vision It’s good practice to have both a personal vision and a company vision.

But sometime these are not aligned, and they should be. You don’t want to have a personal vision that calls for a work-life balance but have a company vision that demands more time away from home.

That only creates conflict between the two. This may require some trade-offs.

But in the end, a better balance between your personal and business life will result in less stress and more fulfillment.

Know where you are Do you know where you are in your journey? How do you compare to others in your industry? How do you compare to what your vision is? A business diagnostic tool helps you know where you are on the map. This will give you insights into what gaps exist and what areas of your business need course adjustment. Once you know where you are, then you need to understand how to get to your destination.

Useful tools include a strategic advantage survey to help you identify your value proposition, your key differentiators and how is your product or service positioned.

A SWOT analysis helps you to change your approach to exploit the market or identify new opportunities for growth.

Identifying your company values will help you define a company culture and brand statement. What is important to you, your business and your customers? How do you want your organization to interact and respond organically? Establishing a culture and brand statement helps your employees understand how they should respond in their daily roles and responsibilities to improve customer satisfaction.

Have a blueprint for success Now it’s time to create a plan of action.

This is where you identify critical success factors that will drive your business forward and the strategy for how they will be executed. From there, you need

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a strategic project plan that defines the steps necessary to reach your goals—who will do the work, how long it will take, and when it will be accomplished. And to keep you on track, it’s good practice to have Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in place that drive success in your business. Focus on the critical few, versus trying to fix everything at once.

Don’t go it alone The last piece of the puzzle is to get help. A good practice is to have an advisory board of business owners and a business coach that can help clarify ideas, improve decisions and offer accountability. Business owners that have an advisory board experience growth rates that outpace those that don’t. According to Fast Company and Business.com, companies with advisory boards have 19-43% higher revenue and grow more than two times faster than companies that don’t.

Mark Tichgelaar is owner of The Alternative Board of Rockford and a certified business coach. He has a BSEET, an MBA, a Master’s Degree in Project Management and executive education in strategic planning and leadership from Kelley School of Business, Yale School of Management, and the Center for Creative.

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

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

November 2023

GUEST COLUMNIST

Community collaboration saves a food pantry MARK BALDWIN, Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence

Good things happen when we work together

This is a story about the good things that happen when a community comes together to solve a problem. It’s also an example of how the Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence (NICNE) is poised to respond to social needs across the region.

First, some background Food insecurity on the northwest side of Rockford is no secret. Even before the 2018 closing of a prominent grocery store, the area was challenged by poverty and less-than-reliable transportation options for individuals who otherwise had to walk to buy groceries. The exit of a large grocer turned the neighborhood into a food desert.

What may be a secret to many in our community, however, were the efforts of a small nonprofit to make sure residents did not go hungry.

That organization, Voices of Inspiration, operates a food pantry that serves more than 1,200 people a month from a leased space on North Rockton Avenue. Voices is remarkable, because it depends entirely on the generosity of its all-volunteer staff and donations of food from partners like Walmart. The work was never easy, but people were fed.

Fast-forward to spring of this year, Voices’ landlord announced a rent increase well out of the organization’s reach. Voices had two options: move to a less-expensive space or close. When Voices’ prospects looked bleakest, the city of Rockford stepped in to pay for three months’ rent, providing a little bit of breathing room.

That’s when NICNE got involved With support from a grant provided by the city of Rockford, NICNE convened 40 stakeholders representing human services organizations, local government, the faith community and the neighborhood.

Members of the group shared a concern about food insecurity in northwest Rockford and a bias for action, and they quickly tapped their networks for ideas, advocated for Voices with public officials, identified potential donors, and opened the door to a broader discussion of food insecurity. It was a textbook case of collaboration to solve a social problem.

NICNE was created to do this kind of work and is eager to do more. We’ve expanded our Professional Services team, which now has more than 15 individuals available to consult with nonprofits on a variety of topics: governance, strategic planning, leadership development and

succession planning, fund development, marketing and communications, organizational culture, financial management and more.

There’s more, of course. Just one year ago, NICNE launched CollabLab, a forum for collaborations designed to address urgent community challenges, food insecurity being a prime example.

CollabLab is less a place than a state of mind and a toolbox of resources designed to encourage collaboration for social change. So far, NICNE-supported collaborative initiatives include: • Belonging Begins With Us-Rockford, a group of businesses, nonprofits, schools and government agencies working together to ensure all Rockford residents experience a sense of belonging.

• Youth Mental Health System of Care, a coalition of health care and social services providers, advocates, schools and others that formed in 2018 to create a coordinated, comprehensive system of care for young people with mental health challenges.

• Rockford Area Case Management Initiative, a collaboration of human services organizations that provides a community-wide approach to case management to deliver support services to individuals who face challenges like poverty, mental illness or barriers to literacy to help them achieve self-sufficiency.

• Sustain Rockford, a collaboration of individuals representing government, businesses, nonprofits, and the community at large who have come together to develop environmental sustainability plans for the Rockford region.

But back to Voices of Inspiration.

NICNE’s work there isn’t complete, but the fruits so far have been gratifying.

The Kiwanis Club of Rockford awarded Voices a $15,000 grant. That grant and contributions from other donors have enabled Voices to keep its doors open while the community addresses the broader question of food insecurity — proof that when we work together, anything is possible.

Mark Baldwin is on the NICNE Professional Services Team. NICNE Professional Services team members are available to help your organization. To learn more, call 815-753-8733 or email nicne@niu.edu.

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

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

November 2023

GUEST COLUMNIST

Hearing Care: A Necessity, Not an Option BEN LIBMAN, Center for Sight & Hearing

Prevention is key to avoid hearing loss

Hearing care is a critical aspect of our overall well-being. It affects our communication, emotional health, and overall quality of life. When hearing is compromised, we may find it difficult to engage in conversations, savor our favorite tunes, or even be aware of our surroundings. Untreated hearing loss can lead to a range of physical and mental health issues, such as social isolation, depression, and cognitive decline.

Preventing hearing loss begins with safeguarding your ears from excessive noise. Whether you’re attending a concert or working in a noisy environment, using earplugs or earmuffs can go a long way in preserving your hearing.

Regular hearing check-ups are also essential. Audiologists and hearing specialists can detect signs of hearing loss early, making it possible to address the issue promptly. These evaluations are particularly important as we age.

Additionally, maintaining overall health plays a vital role in hearing care.

Conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes can impact your hearing, so staying physically active, consuming a balanced diet, and managing your health effectively are crucial.

Aural Rehabilitation: The Road to Recovery While hearing care can prevent or mitigate hearing loss, some individuals still experience it. This is where aural rehabilitation enters the picture. Aural rehabilitation is a holistic approach to help people adapt to their hearing loss and improve communication skills. It involves counseling, education, and various strategies to enhance the quality of life for those with hearing impairment.

Modern hearing aids are a cornerstone of aural rehabilitation. These devices are more advanced than ever, offering customizable solutions that can amplify sounds effectively for those with hearing loss. They come in various styles and technology levels, providing discreet and tailored options for each individual.

For people with severe to profound hearing loss, cochlear implants are a game-changer. These electronic devices are surgically implanted and can provide a sense of sound to individuals who would otherwise have little or no hearing.

Aural rehabilitation also incorporates assistive listening devices. These devices, such as FM systems and Bluetooth accessories, can work in conjunction with hearing aids to improve communication in challenging listening situations.

But aural rehabilitation goes beyond the technical solutions. It encompasses counseling and education to help individuals adapt to their hearing loss.

This includes strategies to improve communication skills, cope with the emotional challenges of hearing loss, and connect with support groups. These aspects are crucial for the holistic wellbeing of those with hearing impairment.

The Emotional Impact and Beyond The psychological and emotional impact of hearing loss cannot be overstated. Coping with hearing impairment can lead to feelings of isolation and frustration. This is why aural rehabilitation takes into account the emotional well-being of individual.

It provides a space for individuals to understand and manage the emotional aspects of hearing loss, offering support to help them lead fulfilling lives.

In conclusion, hearing care is a lifelong journey to preserve and protect our sense of hearing. Aural rehabilitation, as an integral part of this journey, empowers individuals to reclaim the symphony of sound in their lives. By emphasizing hearing care and embracing the transformative power of aural rehabilitation, we can ensure that those with hearing loss continue to savor the world of sound and all the beauty it has to offer.

The Center for Sight and Hearing is hosting FREE hearing care classes to help those dealing with hearing loss and their loved ones. Our next sessions are November 13th, 10am or November 14th 4pm. To look at all classes and topics go to cshni.org/events or register by emailing info@cshni.org or calling 815-332-6823.

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

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

November 2023

MEMBER PROFILE profile profile

Staff Management, Inc. Many people employed in the Rockford area might see the Staff Management name on their paystubs or direct deposit receipts without knowing who they are or what they do. They may not even work for Staff Management at all.

That’s because a growing number of companies outsource their human resources and payroll functions to Staff Management, so they can concentrate on building their brands and pursuing success.

Forty years ago, John and Fran Morrissey saw a need for professional services in the human resources field, much like what was offered for accounting and payroll services at the time. They recognized that, by outsourcing H.R. functions, companies could focus on developing talent and innovation, while relying on Staff Management’s trained professionals to stay current with the latest labor laws and regulations.

“It was a new concept at the time, originally referred to as ‘employee leasing,’ and the industry developed into

what we now refer to as a professional employer organization (PEO),” said John J. Morrissey, president of Staff Management, Inc. John and his sister, Mary Beth Clausen, represent the second generation of the Morrissey family to lead Staff Management and the Morrissey Family Business companies, including John Morrissey Accountants, Inc., and Market Dimensions, Inc. “In the early days of our business, we quite literally became the employer for our clients. At the time, the IRS had no model for how to work with a company like ours,” Morrisey said. “Since that time, the industry has matured significantly, and the IRS now recognizes the important role we can play with for our clients. We are one of only about three dozen companies nationally that are recognized by the IRS as a certified professional employer organization.”

“Our founders were an integral part of a national organization that worked on governing and advocating for this

industry. They spoke in Washington D.C. to help legislators understand our industry and to encourage laws to be written that helped regulate these services,” Clausen said.

Over the years, Staff Management has developed proven strategies to onboard new staff, maintain regulatory compliance, provide and manage employee benefits, and assist with employee relations. And they serve a wide range of organizations and companies, including the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

“As entrepreneurs, small business owners understand the need for an accountant, an attorney, or, if building a new location, an architect. It only makes sense to have an expert that can help manage your human resources,” Morrissey said. “Nobody opens up a hot dog stand because they can’t wait to fill out a W2 form.”

“Many companies may not think they’re big enough for these services, but building a foundation while the business is small can help entrepreneurs take on other duties and projects that need their

focus and will benefit their company more,” Clausen said.

Staying current with new labor laws is one of the many reasons companies choose to work with PEOs. For example, Illinois SB 208 requires employers to track paid leave accrued by employees at a rate of one hour of leave for every 40 hours worked.

Staff Management ensures their clients are compliant with emerging legislation and helps report and track employee benefits.

“We have always cared about our clients and want to do good work for them,” Clausen said. “Our team culture is an important strength of our company, and people enjoy working here. Our team subscribes to the culture of helping our clients.”

“Peter Drucker once said that employees aren’t just employees, they’re people. A business would do well to remember that,’” Morrissey said. “Staff Management’s goal is to help employers outsource critical infrastructural employer functions, so that they can effectively focus on their people.”

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

November 2023

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GREATER ROCKFORD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

economic development Economic development 101 The chamber’s vital role in the Rockford region Economic development is the driving force behind a thriving community.

It shapes the present and future wellbeing of a region, creating opportunities for job growth, business expansion and increased economic prosperity. As a part of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce, the Economic development team plays a vital role, serving as a catalyst for the Rockford region’s economic growth.

The primary goal of economic development is to enhance the economic well-being of a region. So we focus on attracting and retaining primary jobs that significantly impact the local economy.

These jobs are created by businesses that sell products outside the state and bring money into the region.

In essence, we act as the region’s advocate for economic growth and prosperity.

We market the Rockford region to attract primary jobs that are good today, tomorrow and in the future, while propelling the region forward through business retention, expansion and attraction efforts. We conduct business retention visits to actively engage with primary employers that have a significant impact on the local economy.

During a visit, we talk with business leaders one-on-one about the challenges they face and discuss solutions to support their company’s growth, retention and productivity. We help connect them with federal and state partners to ensure they receive the support they need, including businesses resources, guidance on expansion plans and access to financial incentives.

By acting as a strategic partner for businesses looking to scale their operations, we foster a robust environment for business growth and bring valuable expertise to fuel the region’s economic growth.

But economic development goes far beyond business retention visits, it also includes infrastructure development and workforce development.

As the Economic development team, we regularly collaborate with municipalities and trade organizations to identify infrastructure needs and advocate for improvements. This ensures that the Rockford region remains competitive and attractive for investment, with a welldeveloped infrastructure that can support businesses and residents alike.

Another piece of that puzzle is workforce development and

education. We partner with educational institutions at various levels to ensure the incoming workforce is prepared for job opportunities within the region.

We provide programming to build the education-to-workforce pipelines needed to support our aerospace, advanced manufacturing, automotive and healthcare industries.

Northern Illinois University and Rock Valley College have partnered with the Economic development team to provide a four-year mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).

The program provides the curriculum as well as the opportunity for establishing mentorships and internships with business professionals and organizations located in the Rockford region. Rock Valley College has invested in an aviation maintenance technology program located at the Chicago Rockford International Airport. This program provides a direct talent supply chain to the AAR maintenance repair and overhaul facility. There are also dozens of apprenticeship programs offered by regional trade unions. These are taught by skilled craftsmen and apprentices earn

a living wage throughout the education process.

By collaborating with a variety of institutions, we actively work to close the skills gap, create career pathways, internship opportunities, and facilitate access to talent and training resources.

This ensures that the community can adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing economic landscape.

Proactively anticipating changes and preparing for them is essential for sustained growth.

The value our team brings to the community is found in the efforts and resources that drive economic well-being in the Rockford region. The Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce’s collaborative approach ensures a sustainable and prosperous future.

Economic development is a multifaceted endeavor that requires the active involvement of dedicated organizations. By focusing our attention on job creation, business growth and retention, infrastructure development, education and fostering partnerships, our efforts are instrumental in shaping the economic landscape of the Rockford region. Together, we all play a vital role in ensuring a prosperous and vibrant community today and in the future.

The chamber’s economic development team How we support local employers Advocacy

The Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce stands as a beacon of support and opportunity for primary employers seeking growth, development and success. As a part of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce, our economic development team plays a pivotal role in the economic landscape, offering a comprehensive range of services and resources to the business community.

education institutions. By partnering with local educational institutions like Rock Valley College, Rockford Public Schools and Harlem School District, we help close the skills gap, create career pathways and offer internship opportunities. This fosters a direct connection between businesses and emerging talent, laying the foundation for a prosperous future.

Funding access

Experts and resources

One of the key areas of focus for our economic development team is helping businesses access funding for workforce development. Through strategic partnerships with entities like The Workforce Connection, we help businesses access federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act (WIOA) grant dollars and provide fund customized trainings.

The organization also offers invaluable assistance to manufacturers with operational and manufacturing needs. Partnering with the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC), we provide access to expertise and resources that empower manufacturers to stay competitive and innovative in today’s dynamic marketplace.

Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce

Educational partnerships

Global market access

Commerce and Economic Opportunity

ensuring a bright economic future for

Another service is the economic development team’s commitment to bridging the gap between businesses and

Additionally, the economic development team works to connect businesses with the global market. Through

(DCEO) to offer economic development

the community. To learn more about

incentives, including tax benefits and

the services and programs offered, visit

workforce development incentives.

rockfordil.com.

cooperation with government agencies, the Foreign Trade Zone #176 and Greater Rockford Airport Authority, companies can import goods and materials without immediate tax and duty payments. This paves the way for expanding opportunities on the global stage.

Expansion, relocation and tax assistance Collaboration is a cornerstone of the and our economic development team’s mission. By partnering with utility companies, local governments and state entities, we assess site readiness, mitigate relocation risks and ensure shovel-ready locations for businesses. Our economic development team also collaborates with the State of Illinois Department of

Our Economic Development team is also the sole entity in Winnebago County that fulfills requests for information from site selectors, advocating for the redevelopment of brownfield sites and positioning large industrial sites before site selectors. For businesses looking to expand their supply chain, we bring experts to the table for one-on-one meetings, fostering connections and enhancing growth prospects.

Through a comprehensive range of services and strategic partnerships, the economic development team of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce facilitates economic growth, job creation and prosperity for the Rockford area,

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SPECIAL SECTION

All Things Web

November 2023

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

(continued from the front page)

like Musical.ly, he saw how kids were embracing creating and sharing short, funny videos on the web. “People would argue with me, ‘It’s just kids dancing to music.’ But that’s the same thing that was said about Instagram. We’ve had these same conversations. When you recognize we’ve been through this before, you can prepare for this.”

With the rise of Tik Tok and competitors like Instagram Shorts, video editing has taken on a new level of importance for marketers and communicators alike. But the process of creating video content for the web has grown more accessible to users thanks to AI tools.

“Say you’re recording an interview and there’s a background hum, then a car honks outside. AI is exceptional at cleaning up that audio for you with one touch, instead of spending time manually doing it,” Laskonis said.

When pressed, Laskonis isn’t worried about AI taking his job anytime soon.

“Like any tool, AI has got to be used in the right way to get the right results. If you think your 12-year-old can ‘do ChatGPT’ and get you results, try it. The easiest way to use AI is getting an expert who knows what they’re doing. If you don’t know what prompts to enter, the end product will not meet your standards.”

Lessons in AI Penny Yurkew, an English teacher by trade, is the assistant principal of academics at Boylan Catholic High School in Rockford. She’s very aware of the effect AI has on teaching writing skills.

According to Yurkew, educators started learning about AI applications in November of 2022, and how it was applied for both teacher and student use.

“I attended a law symposium for Catholic educators wanting to hear more about using AI responsibly and creating policies for school use. This was difficult at the time, as several AI features could not be used by students under 13 at all, and not for students under 18 without parental permission. Policies like these were designed for use in universities, not high schools,” she said.

Yurkew and Josh Anderson, Boylan’s tech director, set up ChatGPT on her phone and Chromebook, and Yurkew used the AI tool to seek out acceptable uses for AI in a Catholic high school setting. They continuously modified their prompts, emphasizing their mission statement, and generated pages of content that didn’t work or wasn’t great but helped Yurkew through her thought process.

Yurkew and her team worked on an Academic Honesty Policy, using internet tools like TurnItIn.com, requiring bibliographies and hand-written essay assignments in class to help thwart the use of AI as a substitute for work.

Louise Basile, an instructional coach and teacher at Boylan, understands that it’s also important for students to learn

and understand AI, not simply be warned against using it. “We also can encourage our students to ask their teacher if it’s acceptable to use AI on a project. We expect students to document that AI was used as a part of their work. Because we realize that AI will be used in places of employment, we want our students to think critically about what AI produces.”

One of Basile’s AI projects is to have students use ChatGPT or Google Bard to generate the history of Boylan High School.

“It’s very inaccurate, writing about ‘graduates’ that never graduated, filling in information it doesn’t know. We talk about using AI ethically for good rather than using it to create a situation that is dishonest. We want students to know how it’s used by effective employees,” she said.

Teachers also use AI to create lesson plans, generate slides for those plans, and help make complex subjects easier to understand.

That approach is working at Boylan.

“I don’t think we’ve seen a lot of cheating.

It helps that we use Google Docs which has a revision history to it. We can see as they’re writing how they’re revising what they take from a source and how they’re changing it,” Basile said.

Ethical AI is a part of the curriculum at Boylan through their freshman seminar on digital literacy and citizenship.

“Teaching kids about what they put onto the internet that is acceptable or not-acceptable, like sharing information about their location, what they’re doing, sharing pictures – all of that is accessible to anyone,” Yurkew said. “Understanding this technology is all part of digital literacy.”

Instead of focusing only on what not to do, instructors are talking about

how to use these technology tools in a positive way.

“We are teaching our students how to use this technology to create their brand. Using tools like Canva, students are creating a digital brand they would want people to see – playing sports, doing work. We want students to think critically about what they want their brand to say,” Basile said.

Brand management and AI at Boylan Anabel Nosek uses AI to help Boylan students and parents stay up to date on activities at the school.

Nosek, Boylan’s marketing coordinator, is in her second year of keeping the student body and their families informed of events via social media, as well as promoting the school to potential students and families considering enrolling their kids in next year’s class.

“I was wary of AI until this school year,” Nosek said. “I spent last year focusing on having a set voice for Boylan as a whole. I’m the sole writer of the majority of the communications that we put out, and I was worried with the use of AI that our voice might get lost.”

Nosek has ramped up her use of AI to help manage the growing list of communication requests from the student body, as well as the many marketing responsibilities that promote the school to the public.

“When I enter prompts into AI, I get very specific with what I want, starting with a simplified version of what I intend on writing, without the frills I would normally add. It often generates content that is close to what I had intended. Then I can go in and tweak it to make sure it’s something I would write using the voice

of Boylan that I’d developed.”

Where AI made a difference for Nosek was in generating new ways of approaching repeated topics. “Using AI to help me break phrasing habits has been good for me, helping the message stay fresh.”

Recently, Google’s Bard started adding features specifically designed to help with social media marketing, adding tools that help writers find different tones for different social media settings.

But Nosek reaffirmed the importance of having a skilled communicator over relying solely on AI to do this work.

“I don’t think that AI can ever replace the skill of writing and communication.

Writing should always be essential and taught alongside AI, never replaced by AI. It takes training to understand how to write for an audience, to make an argument,” she said.

Unexpected costs of AI “In the legal field, AI is both an opportunity and an existential threat,” said John Paul Kale, a patent attorney for Reinhart, Boerner, Van Deuren in Rockford.

“AI is a tool that relies on a lot of content scraped and generated by other people—information that is categorized, classified and trained on to produce and generate new content based on previous content. It can be used for things like generating legal product, memos, briefs and pleadings that are things you’d give to an internal client, shareholder or court.

Hypothetically, it could be as productive as a young associate attorney,” Kale said.

But it’s not fool proof. “If you don’t check its work, AI is prone to make stuff up. It doesn’t actually know what it’s saying, just stringing together predictable words. It has no way of knowing whether

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GUEST COLUMNIST

Is your website thriving or just surviving?

SHAUN KEHOE, KMK Media Group

How to evaluate your website’s performance

As the end of the year approaches, it’s time to evaluate what’s working and what’s not with your website. Is your online image ready for the new year?

The first place to start is a deep dive into your website analytics. We’ll break down what to look at and explain how you can evaluate if your website is thriving or just surviving.

Traffic metrics

what it’s saying is correct. It’s using probability and predictive algorithm. As a result, there’s a substantial probability that its output is incorrect,” he said.

Kale, who has been a patent attorney since 2013 and has seen a lot of technological changes in his line of work and can see how firms may turn to using AI, making life harder for graduating lawyers.

“In the patent field in particular, you’re going to see the adoption of AI to help prepare applications that get filed with the patent office,” Kale said.

Using AI to help fill in commonly repeated content in a patent applications or standard boilerplate in contracts could be cost-effective for some small firms, replacing the work of younger attorneys.

First-year associates aren’t expected to be efficient with their work as they learn their trade, Kale added. As long as there are deadlines, there are always going to be certain lawyers willing to cut corners, not willing to put in the time needed to develop attorneys when AI can do the job.

“The good news for young attorneys is that senior attorneys are slow to adapt to new technology or change, so new graduates may have the advantage there, finding it easier to start a firm using AI tools, and to offer a competitively priced, valuable product for their clients,” he said.

But the warning not to rely too heavily on AI stands. “The court and the clerk will research to make sure they are ruling based on the appropriate case law.

Many law firms will refuse to release AI generated documents to clients or the court. Before any work goes out, it needs another set of eyes,” Kale said.

On the other hand, AI has made pouring through online resources more efficient. Companies like LexisNexis and Thomson Reuters have made their

content searchable using AI tools, allowing researchers to find relevant information faster and more effectively using these new tools.

But there are many questions about using AI to generate ideas, image, or inventions based on information scraped from the internet.

“Recently, a U.S. federal circuit court confirmed that AI systems can’t patent inventions,” Kale said.

The US Patent Act requires that inventors “must be natural persons; that is, human beings,” the ruling from Judge Leonard P. Stark read, “There is no ambiguity.”

What this means to engineers and inventors could be complicated, particularly as online streaming platforms and social media grapple with the complexity of using AI to protect copyright while leaving room for fairuse. There’s a tug of war developing to protect creative content like art, literature and innovations, while simultaneously applying new technology to generate useful output that can help advance education, business and improve existing technology.

“These are difficult questions,” Kale said. “Whatever tools you are using, make sure to review the terms of use.

They will outline what remedies you may have if you feel your materials have been used without permission, as well as determine the rights of the output of the product. Check before you start a marketing campaign using AI generated work, you don’t want it to come back to haunt you because you don’t own the output.”

Kale’s advice is to use content that you own, and remember that AI can be very helpful. “Those that embrace the new AI tools will end up better than those who v fight against using them.”

The number of visitors your website receives is a fundamental metric. Google Analytics offers fantastic insights into your website’s traffic. Pay attention to: • Total visitors - This tells you how many people are coming to your website. An increase year over year here is a good sign.

• Unique visitors - These are the new faces on your site. Seeing this number rise indicates that your website is attracting fresh interest.

• Bounce rate - A high bounce rate means visitors are leaving your site quickly. Aim for a low bounce rate (40% or lower), as it suggests visitors find your content engaging.

Engagement metrics It’s not just about getting people to your site; it’s about keeping them there.

These Google Analytics metrics measure how engaged your visitors are: • Page views - This shows how many pages your visitors view on average.

More page views typically indicate more engagement.

• Average session duration - Longer sessions mean people are exploring your content. A healthy average session duration depends on what you want users to do on your site.

• Conversion rate - This tells you how many visitors take the desired action, like making a purchase or signing up for a newsletter.

with your audience? Use this information to guide your content strategy.

Site speed Nobody likes a slow-loading website.

Google’s PageSpeed Insights can help you gauge your site’s speed and offer suggestions for improvement. Aim for anything in the green zone (90+) or slightly below it.

SEO/traffic metrics Search engine optimization (SEO) is critical for driving organic traffic. Keep an eye on metrics like keyword rankings, click-through rates (CTR), and the number of indexed pages.

In addition, understand where your traffic is coming from so you can tailor your marketing efforts. Google Analytics is a good measurement for SEO ROI and can measure: • Organic search - Visitors who find your site through search engines.

High organic traffic is a sign of good SEO. • Direct traffic - People who type your URL directly into their browsers. This could be a result of strong branding, causing people to specifically look for you.

• Referral traffic - Visitors who come from other websites. Partnering with other sites can boost this metric.

• Social traffic - Traffic from social media. Are your social media efforts paying off?

Goals and KPI

Content analysis

Lastly, define your website’s goals and key performance indicators (KPI). These could include increasing sales, growing your email list or boosting engagement.

Regularly review these goals to ensure your website is aligning with your overall business objectives.

Evaluating your website’s performance doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right tools, like Google Analytics, and a clear understanding of the key metrics, you can gauge how well your website is working. Regularly monitoring and making data-driven improvements will help you keep your website on the path to success. So, roll up your sleeves, dive into your web stats, and watch your website flourish.

Shaun Kehoe has been a web developer with KMK Media Group for 10 years.

Your content is the heart and soul of your website. Analyze which pages or blog posts are performing the best. Are there specific topics or formats that resonate

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

Mobile vs. desktop With the rise of smartphones, it’s crucial to ensure your website looks and functions well on mobile devices.

Google Analytics provides data on the devices your visitors use. With 59% of all Internet traffic (Statista) coming from mobile devices, this is a must. Plus, Google gives better page ranking to sites that are well-formatted for mobile.

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

GUEST COLUMNIST

Helping your business navigate social media KATRYNA KIRBY, Social Kat

Start with the basics and don’t over-do it

You either love social media or you hate it. To be honest, I feel the same way. And as most of you know, if your organization or business is not actively posting on social media, you’re simply missing out.

But does the thought of posting overwhelm you? Do you feel like you need to post on ALL platforms? Do you feel so overwhelmed that you simply don’t post at all?

You’re not alone. But don’t overthink it. Go back to the basics and ask yourself these questions: • Who is my target audience?

• Where do they live?

• What do they do in their spare time?

• How old are they?

Next, review which social media platforms you’re currently on or thinking about joining, and make sure you are indeed posting on the right platforms.

And don’t over-do it. If you’re active on just one social media platform, that’s ok.

As long as you’re reaching your target audience, that’s what matters most.

Here’s a brief run down on each platform with tips on how to get the most from them.

Facebook According to SproutSocial, users 25-34 years old represent Facebook’s largest audience. Despite the platform’s reputation as an “older” network, it sees higher usage among people below the age of 44.

Facebook is a great place to advertise and actively promote your business.

And it’s easy to get started, because almost all content formats—text, images, video, stories—work well on Facebook. However, the Facebook algorithm prioritizes content that sparks conversations and meaningful interactions between people.

Instagram Because of its hyper-visual nature, Instagram is a popular platform. Here are some stats on Instagram users, according to Statista:

• 48% are female • 51% are male • 31% are 25-34 years old • 30% are 18-24 years old Instagram also appeals to users who want to become influencers and use their personality and interests to help brands reach their target audience.

If you have a product or service to showcase and you’re willing to put some creative juices into video, then Instagram is where it’s at. On the app, you can share a wide range of content, such as Instagram Reels (videos), Stories and static content.

As a business, you can create an Instagram business profile which provides rich analytics of your profile and posts. Instagram is also a great platform for pulling user-generated content from your audience, because users frequently share content and tag brands and businesses.

X (formerly Twitter) X, formerly Twitter, is the first platform people turn to for breaking news. X’s audience is active, engaged and plugged-in: • 56% are male • 43 % are female • 38% are 25-34 years old The platform invites an audience that loves to post news, entertainment, sports and politics to engage in realtime. Many brands use X as an alternate customer service channel. So, if you’re business or organization is in the news, entertainment, politics or sports space, this is the platform for you.

LinkedIn LinkedIn is a wonderful platform for entrepreneurs, business owners and professionals. Here are user age demographics according to Hootsuite: • 60% are 25-34 years old • 21.7% are 18-24 years old • 15.4% are 35-54 years old • 2.9% are over 55 LinkedIn has evolved from a simple job search engine and resume site into a professional networking platform where

industry experts share content, network and build their personal brand. It’s also a great place for businesses and leaders to establish thought leadership in their industries to attract talent.

If you’re an organization showcasing all the good you do in the community or a business looking to bring on solid team members, LinkedIn is a no-brainer.

It has an engaged, active and professional audience.

TikTok While TikTok rose to fame as a platform for Gen Z dance challenges, it has grown to encompass every kind of content and community. It’s now an essential tool for brands looking to connect directly with customers. But just because it’s the newest social media platform, doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for your business.

TikTok allows users to create and share videos 15-60 seconds long. If you have DIY tricks or tutorials, challenges, art videos, dance videos or minute recipes, TikTok may be your platform.

According to Buffer, approximately 47% of TikTok users are 10-29 years old.

If your target demographic is young, then TikTok is a great platform for your business or organization to be on.

Reading through these platforms, can you narrow down the one or two social media sites your business or organizations needs to be on? Yes? Then stick to those platforms. Don’t feel like you have to post on all of them.

Ultimately, make sure you diversify your content, post consistently and engage in conversations. If you keep it basic but make it a priority, your social media engagement will flourish, and your business or organization will grow.

Katryna Kirby is the founder of Social Kat, a boutique social media and public relations firm.

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

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5 Steps to Take Immediately If Your Business Is Hacked Cyberattacks cripple company operations, but swift action can reduce damage. Here’s how to respond to a security incident.

By Jessica Elliott , Contributor, Co- by U.S. Chamber Cybercrime comes in all shapes and forms. It can immediately slow networks or send spam emails from your business account. Conversely, you may only know your business was hacked once fraudulent charges appear on your statement or a third party notifies you.

In all cases, acting purposely and quickly can help you mitigate harm.

Review guidance from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) at the U.S. Department of Commerce. These organizations provide instructions for responding to and protecting your business from cyber incidents.

said, “The exact steps to take depend on the nature of the breach and the structure of your business.”

For instance, Hacked.com recommended different first steps based on the type of breach or attack, such as: • Ransomware: Isolation is the first step because the ransomware attack spreads through your systems, devices, and networks.

• Data breach: Once cybercriminals steal data, everyone is at risk. You should immediately inform affected individuals inside and outside of your organization.

• Social media account hack: If a social page or profile is compromised, change the passwords and recover the account.

Activate your breach response team

Detect and isolate affected systems and hardware

Once an incident is reported, your breach response team should spring into action. According to CISA’s Incident Response Plan Basics, businesses should assign an incident manager to lead the response, a tech manager to serve as a subject matter expert, and a communications manager to handle internal and external communications.

They will follow your incident response plan (IRP) detailing various scenarios and corresponding actions. The FTC

Detection and isolation are the first things you should do when handling a cyberattack, according to a Joint CISA and Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) ransomware guide. The best way to contain the infection is by taking the affected network offline at the switch level. If this isn’t possible, you can disconnect the network’s ethernet cable and any hardwired devices while manually disconnecting wireless devices.

Powering down hardware is a last resort because turning off equipment may remove evidence necessary for a forensic investigation. RedTeam Security also suggested that information security teams “check for backdoors” and, if the compromise originated through a thirdparty tool, “block all of that supplier’s accounts until they resolve the issue on their end.”

Alert employees The MS-ISAC and CISA checklist noted that “malicious actors may monitor your organization’s activity or communications to understand if their actions have been detected.”

Consequently, it’s vital to immediately switch to non-internet communication channels and prevent employees from chatting about the incident within chat applications or email. If you determine the attack was a social engineering scam through email, notify users to delete messages with the bogus subject line.

Preserve, remove, and restore Depending on the severity of the incident, your infosec team or a cybersecurity contractor will collect data about the breach. According to Delinea, this may involve collecting

“logs, memory dumps, audits, network traffic, and disk images.” After preserving evidence, they should remove malicious code and restore your system to its preincident state.

Other potential steps include: • Patching vulnerabilities.

• Updating software and firmware.

• Resetting passwords.

Inform affected parties and the authorities Work with your legal department and communications manager to determine who to notify next. Local, state, federal, and international laws regulate how quickly you tell affected parties and what information you disclose. For instance, if the breach included more than 500 personal health records, you must notify the FTC within 10 days after the incident.

It’s also a best practice to disclose a data breach to customers as soon as possible after securing your systems and evidence.

Lastly, CISA said federal law enforcement might have ransomware decryptors available. You should contact local, state, and federal authorities to report the incident and see if assistance is available. If you have cyber insurance or managed services, inform your agent or company contact of the attack or data breach.

10 Employee Benefit Costs You Can Deduct from Your Taxes Here are a few employee-related expenses you may be able to deduct as a business owner.

Danielle Fallon-O’Leary , Contributor – Co- By U.S. Chamber of Commerce As a small business owner, you may have considered offering your employees benefits like health insurance and retirement savings plans.

“When employees receive benefits, they have higher satisfaction, which decreases turnover and increases retention,” said Topher Reynoso, former Head of Health Benefits Compliance at Gusto. “Offering benefits also levels the playing field when it comes to recruiting talent, which is important in our tight labor market.”

Funding these programs can be a significant upfront expense, especially on a tight startup budget. However, many of these benefits-related costs can be deducted when you file your business taxes.

If you offer the following employee benefits to your team, you might be able to save on your tax bill.

Health care plans Health care is one of the most important benefits workers expect from their employers — and often the most expensive. However, Chayim Kessler, CPA and Managing Member at MiamiBeachCPA LLC, noted that contributions toward your employees’

health insurance coverage can be considered a tax credit “as long as you have less than 25 full-time staff, the paid premiums are under the SHOP Marketplace and the paid average annual wages are less than the prescribed amount by the IRS.” If you have fewer than 25 employees with annual salaries of under $50,000, the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit can be beneficial to your bottom line.

This tax credit, created by the Affordable Care Act, allows small businesses and tax-exempt employers to provide health insurance for employees. The credit amount you receive is determined on a sliding scale — the fewer number of employees, the more credit. However, the maximum credit is 50% and is only available for two consecutive years. To calculate and claim the credit, you’ll need to use Form 8941, Credit for Small Employer Health Insurance Premiums.

HRAs Not sure if you can afford to offer an employer-sponsored health care plan?

Health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs) are a much more flexible and accessible option for small businesses,

thanks to regulations like the Qualified Small Employer HRA (QSEHRA) and the Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement (ICHRA).

“Instead of funding a group health plan, employers can set a monthly budget for benefits and reimburse employees tax-free for plans they choose on the individual market,” said Amy Skinner, a spokesperson for Take Command Health.

Skinner also noted that an HRA takes the burden of managing a health plan and underlying health risks off of the employer. Instead, your employees choose the health care coverage that best suits their needs, and you can simply support them.

Section 125 deductions Reynoso recommends looking into Section 125 deductions to reduce your tax burden as an employer.

“These are items that can be deducted from employee pay on a pre-tax basis and are exempt from federal income tax withholding, Social Security, and Medicare taxes,” Reynoso told CO—. “These have the potential to lower employer payroll tax and lower

employees’ taxable income, which is a real win-win.”

Often referred to as a “cafeteria plan,” a Section 125 plan allows employees to choose from a menu of pretax benefits, including health and dental insurance.

Those who choose to participate in the plan will provide a fraction of their gross pay to help cover the benefits. The most common benefits that attract employees are premium-only plans (POPs) and flexible savings arrangements (FSAs).

If you’re interested in this option, open enrollment is offered yearly, but make sure to adhere to the specific IRS guidelines that govern these plans.

Paid employee leave If you offer paid leave for medical and personal reasons, you might be eligible to take a tax credit, said Kessler. Typically, the credit ranges from 12.5% to 25% of the leave paid to the employee. Eligible employers can request a credit equal to a percentage of the wages they provide to qualified employees during their family and medical leave. The credit applies to wages earned starting on December 31, (continued on page 18)

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

November 2023

GUEST COLUMNIST

Step into the sunshine

Prepare for the Corporate Transparency Act

DANIEL A. HUNTLEY, WilliamsMcCarthy, LLP

Beginning on January 1, 2024, businesses will need to begin reporting the ownership structures of their stateregistered business entities to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (“FinCEN”), to comply with the federal Corporate Transparency Act passed

by Congress on January 1, 2021. The information that FinCEN collects is purportedly to be used only for state and federal criminal matters and in conjunction with financial institutions’ Know Your Customer (“KYC”) regulations. However, similar state laws, such as New York’s, have eventually been amended to make such information reported publicly available via a searchable database.

The Corporate Transparency Act applies to ‘reporting companies,’ which is defined as any domestic entity that is created by a filing with a state secretary of state or an entity that registers to do business with a state secretary of state.

Here in Illinois, common examples of ‘reporting companies’ would be corporations, limited liability companies, many forms of Illinois partnerships, and any of the equivalent versions of those from neighboring states, such as Wisconsin or Iowa. As a federal law, these reporting requirements are not unique to Illinois businesses, and all U.S. businesses will need to evaluate themselves for compliance, whether they be based in Florida, Maine or Alaska.

While there is an extensive list of 23 types of ‘reporting companies’ that are otherwise exempt from FinCEN reporting, the most commonly used exemptions are expected to be nonprofit entities, political organizations and publicly-traded companies or similar entities subject to regulatory oversight.

For reporting companies, companies may be able to make use of the ‘large operating company’ exemption, defined as an entity (i) with more than 20 full-time U.S.

employees, (ii) operating from a physical location in the U.S., and (iii) reporting more than $5 million in revenue.

Business owners and their advisors need to be prepared for compliance on three different fronts. First, for ‘reporting companies’ created after January 1, 2024, they will need to submit their beneficial ownership information as to any owner that owns or controls more than 25 percent of that business entity’s ownership interests.

Second, for ‘reporting companies’ that were in existence prior to January 1, 2024, FinCEN requires that those companies report their beneficial ownership information prior to December 31, 2024. Third, there is a continuing obligation to report changes in beneficial ownership within 30 days of those changes. For ‘reporting companies,’ the information that must be provided includes (A) the beneficial owners’ full legal names; (B) birth date; (C) residential address; and (D) a passport or driver’s license number, and needs to be reported on FinCEN forms within 30 days, although FinCEN is considering extending the initial reporting deadline for a full 90 days for 2024. It is important to recognize that the FinCEN reporting requirement is as to ‘beneficial ownership,’ which circumstantially could include trust beneficiaries, land trust owners and

other indirect methods of ownership.

FinCEN is still finalizing its reporting system and its proposed forms as the date of this article, and it is possible that implementation of the Corporate Transparency Act will be delayed while FinCEN finalizes its reporting apparatus.

Failure to comply with the federal Corporate Transparency Act can result in civil and criminal penalties including $10,000 fines and up to two years of imprisonment. Importantly, liability also attaches to senior employees and officers of ‘reporting companies’ that fail to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act. However, given the information that needs to be collected for reporting, it is critical that businesses that believe they may qualify for reporting consult their advisors to determine their compliance obligations.

Daniel A. Huntley is a partner in the transactional group at WilliamsMcCarthy LLP. He concentrates his law practice in business and real estate transactions, and trusts and estates. Daniel can be reached at dhuntley@wilmac.com or by phone at 815987-8980.

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

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

November 2023

Stroll On State back for Year 11 Making spirits bright in downtown Rockford Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

 Destination

ILLINOIS, USA

ADDING WEALTH TO THE REGION’S ECONOMY BY GROWING TOURISM

The Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau is excited to announce the 11th annual Stroll on State, presented

by Illinois Bank & Trust, is set for Saturday, Nov. 25 in downtown Rockford.

The free-to-all holiday celebration, which is always held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, attracts over 70,000 guests every year.

The day will commence with the running of the Dasher Dash 5K at noon, followed by the festival taking place from 2 – 9 p.m. with new enhancements, attractions, live entertainment, vendors and more for eventgoers to enjoy.

“Every year, the best Holiday Fest in the Midwest happens in downtown Rockford. Stroll on State, presented

by Illinois Bank & Trust, brings our community together to create lasting

memories, rally behind local businesses and usher in the holiday season. I’d like to extend heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated partners, sponsors, volunteers for their unwavering support which makes this festive tradition possible,” said Kristen Paul, RACVB’s vice president of destination development. “Together, we bring merry and bright memories to the season, one joyful moment at a time.”

Sponsor Support Makes Stroll Possible Stroll on State transforms downtown Rockford into a winter wonderland thanks to many partners, volunteers and sponsors. In total, over 50 companies and organizations will provide financial support through sponsorship of this year’s Stroll on State and Dasher Dash

5K. Their investment allows RACVB to present the event as a gift to the community and visitors.

“It is with great pride that Illinois Bank & Trust continues to serve as presenting sponsor of Stroll on State.

Our commitment stems from the belief that community connections and tradition are important cornerstones of a thriving city. So, in that way Stroll on State is also an investment in our community’s future,” said Jeff Hultman, CEO of Illinois Bank & Trust. “Year after year, this event helps to bring people together to create cherished memories and provides an invaluable boost to local businesses, fostering economic vitality in our region. On behalf of all of us at Illinois Bank & Trust, I want to say thank

you to all involved who make this event a reality each year. We look forward to many more years of shared success.”

“Stroll on State is the perfect kick off to the holiday season in Rockford. My family and I have made Stroll on State a tradition. Stroll represents what is best in Rockford - government, business and

community

members

coming

together donating their time, resources and funding to ensure everyone can celebrate, said Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara. “Stroll also happens to fall on Small Business Saturday. I love seeing so many people shopping at locally owned businesses, and I hope that continues throughout the community all season long.”

STROLL’S TOP ANNOUNCEMENTS IN 2023 1. Interactive Map

The new Stroll on State interactive map helps visitors plan their Stroll experience in advance with images, descriptions and navigation at the touch of a button. www.gorockford.com/stroll-on-state/map/.

2. Gather for Tree Lighting

One of the event’s most popular moments – the lighting of the city Christmas tree – will take place at 6 p.m. at the Main Stage located at Main and Elm streets.

This year’s City of Rockford tree is sponsored by the Northwestern Illinois Building Trades. The Main Stage, sponsored by ComEd, will feature music and other entertainment throughout the day.

3. Sky Lights Fireworks, presented by Pierce Distribution

will once again light up the skies of downtown Rockford. The fireworks will be launched from the Jefferson Street Bridge at 8:30 p.m. Viewers will be able to see the skies burst with color from anywhere in the festival if they can see the Jefferson Street Bridge.

4. Inflatable Balloons Highlight Parade

Stroll on State’s Holiday Parade, sponsored by The Power Connection – IBEW 364 & NECA steps off on S. Main Street at Chestnut Street at 2 p.m. and will move north to State Street then east across the State Street Bridge, ending at 3rd Street.

Parade onlookers are encouraged to find a spot along the route beginning at 1 p.m. Hard Rock Rockford is rocking the parade by sponsoring eight balloons, including a surprise new balloon built custom for the Stroll parade. HolmstromKennedy PC and Mercyhealth each also are sponsoring a parade balloon. Local organizations and businesses are invited to participate in the parade. Deadline to register is November 10. For pricing options and information, contact Julie Huber at strollonstate@gorockford.com. Visit www.gorockford.com/stroll-on-state/parade/ for a list of rules, more information and to download a registration form.

5. Blitzen’s Ball, a Character Dance Party for Kids

From princesses to heroes and everything in between this dance party is hosted by Characters 2 Life and will take place inside Stewart Square, 308 W. State St. This event is sponsored by OSF Medical Center.

6. Holiday Hot Rods Classic Car Show

Hosted by Cars & Coffee Rockford see this combination of classic and vintage cars decked out for the holidays in the parking lot behind CJ’s Bar & Grill at 115 N. Madison St. Prizes for best in class as well as best decorated vehicles. The deadline to register is November 22. Email carsandcoffeerockford@gmail.com to register. A limited number of cars will be selected.

7. Frozen in Time Selfie Stations

Stop at any, or better yet all, of our Selfie Stations at Stroll on State. Check out the map for this year’s locations and pose for your perfect shot. This interactive activity is sponsored by General Mills and Quartz.

There are two new photo opportunities this year. A North Pole Village experience with a Rudolph balloon, elf houses and more. There will also be a Snow globe photo station sponsored by Comfort 1st Insulation.

8. Indoor and Outdoor Movie Land

See the return of the fan favorite Outdoor Movie Land next to Jimmy Johns on E. State St. or experience the Indoor Movie Land in Stewart Square, sponsored by Xfinity. “The Grinch” will be shown at each location.

9. Ice Skating at BMO Center

Take a break from strolling the grounds and lace up some ice skates at the BMO Center put on by the Rockford Park District and the Rockford IceHogs.

Additionally, there will be street hockey provided by the Chicago Blackhawks Foundation and the Rockford IceHogs Community Foundation outside of BMO Center as well as family friendly activities provided by the Rockford Park District outside of Veterans Memorial Hall.

10. Dasher Dash 5k

Dasher Dash is a holiday-themed 5k run or walk that starts and finishes near Beattie Park (near 100 Park Avenue). Participants will travel across the beautiful Rock River and decorated East State Street. The race starts at noon. Runners must register by Nov. 24. There will not be registration on the day of the festival.

Register at DasherDash.com by Nov. 10 to guarantee a race t-shirt. Thank you to FiberCity, Members Alliance Credit Union, Brad Martin with Dickerson & Nieman, Fleet Feet, Fehr Graham and DataPoint for sponsoring.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

November 2023

CLASSIC ATTRACTIONS

15

ADDITIONAL EVENT FAVORITES:

• The main event grounds will be along State Street in downtown Rockford bordered by Jefferson, Church, Chestnut and Third Streets. Look for new, upgraded decorations throughout the event.

• Santa Claus will walk throughout the festival. He may be at a S’mores station, taking care of his reindeer, on State Street, at the tree lighting ceremony or enjoying a hot chocolate.

• The popular Hot Chocolate Express will be at two locations – in the Veterans Memorial Hall parking lot and next to the Outdoor Movie Land.

• Rudolph’s Reindeer Village, sponsored by Mercyhealth, is back and will be at Veterans Memorial Hall.

• Your favorite group of elves will be back at Rockford City Hall to collect letters and give them to Santa! At Letters to Santa, sponsored by FurstStaffing, kids are encouraged to write and decorate their letters to Santa, and then mail them on site to the North Pole.

• S’mores stations will be set up in three locations. These yummy, gooey snacks are made fresh to order by Stroll grill masters.

• Horse & Wagon Rides, sponsored by Amazon will return with one location.

• Two Outdoor Holiday Markets with local retail and food vendors.

The markets will be located at Rockford City Market Pavilion (116 N. Madison St.) and Wyman Street District, sponsored by Chicago Blackhawks Foundation (Wyman St., North and South sides of W. State St.).

• Veterans Memorial Hall, at 211 N Main St, will feature a toy train display on the main level. Rockford Dance Company will offer free performances of “The Nutcracker” all afternoon on the second level.

• A full listing of events and attractions is available at www. strollonstate.com

SHOP SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY Stroll on State takes place in conjunction with Small Business Saturday which is an annual holiday tradition that encourages people to support local shop owners.

Locally owned businesses throughout the downtown River District will offer holiday specials and fun events. Be sure to visit the wide range of stores and restaurants, both during Stroll and throughout the holiday season.

Volunteers Help Make It Happen

Stroll on State is made possible in part with the help of several organizations, businesses and volunteers.

Volunteer Workshops are held Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. and Tuesday evenings from 6 – 9 p.m. at 310 Winnebago Street, on the corner of Winnebago and Chestnut Streets. Children ages 12-15 may volunteer with an adult and a signed waiver; 16- and 17-year-olds must provide a signed waiver.

Volunteers are welcome to come to the workshops without prior registration. Workshops end on Tuesday, November 21. Volunteers are needed for the Downtown Decorating Days on Friday and Saturday, November 17-18 and the day of the event. Those looking to lend a helping, including post-event volunteer opportunities, can get more information at www.strollonstate.com.

Parking and Park-And-Ride Free Transportation

In addition to the interactive map, there will be parking options specified on detailed maps. On-street parking and surface parking lots will be available as posted.

The event map with suggested parking areas is available at www.strollonstate.com.

There also will be three Remote Parking Lots with free shuttle bus transportation, sponsored by Rockford Mass Transit District: • YMCA, 200 Y Boulevard (handicapped accessible paratransit buses are available).

• Bethesda Church, 2102 E. State St. (new location this year) and • Crusader Community Health, 1200 W. State St. Shuttle buses run continuously every 10 minutes from 1:30 – 9:30 p.m. All shuttles drop off / pick up in downtown near Third and E. State Streets.

SUPPORTERS & PARTNERS Led by the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, in addition to many partners, the following entities have come together to generously support Stroll on State.

Presenting Sponsor: Illinois Bank & Trust

Parade Presenting Sponsor: The Power

Parade Balloon Sponsor: Hard Rock Rockford

Connection IBEW 364 & NECA Supporting Sponsors: • Accuride • Amazon • Chicago Blackhawks Foundation and Rockford IceHogs Community Foundation • ComEd • Comfort 1st Insulation • CoyleKiley • Field Fastener • FurstStaffing • General Mills • Great Water 360 Auto Care • Hard Rock Casino

Rockford • HolstromKennedyPC • LaMonica Beverages • Mercyhealth • Northwestern Illinois Building Trades Unions • OSF HealthCare • PCI Pharma Services • Pearson Plumbing & Heating • Pierce Distribution • Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 23 • Project First Rate • Quartz • United Union of Roofers

Local 11 • UWHealth • Winnebago County • Xfinity Friends of Stroll on State: • Aetna Plywood • Bennie’s Dry Cleaning • Cars & Coffee • Characters 2 Life • City First Church • County Materials • Creative Crane • Entre Computer Solutions • Event Floral • Fehr Graham • Forest City Fairytale

• Lino’s • Power Road Auto Body • Prographics • Rockford Dance Company • Rockford Ornamental Iron • Rosecrance • Stenstrom • Tree Care Enterprises • Ware Crane & Rigging Partner Organizations: • City of Rockford • BMO Center • Rockford Mass Transit District • Rockford Park District

• Two Men and a Truck Dasher Dash 5K Sponsor: • Rockford FiberCity • Brad Martin at Dickerson & Nieman Realtors • Data Point Inc. • Fehr Graham • Fleet Feet • MembersAlliance Credit Union Media Sponsors: • Northwest Quarterly • 23 WIFR • 13 WREX • WTVO Channel 17

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

November 2023

on digital

GUEST COLUMNIST

MEMBER PICS

Restoring the soul of American healthcare Rediscovering patient-centered care TABASSUM NAFSI, MD FCCP, CEO and physician, Rockord Pulmonary Clinic

Rose Pest Solutions celebrates their new location, 1621 Rural Street in Rockford, with a Ribbon Cutting and neighborhood Halloween Event October 11, 2023.

The state of healthcare in America has reached a critical juncture, where the pursuit of profit and bureaucratic red tape have overshadowed the core principle of patient-centered care. As the landscape becomes increasingly corporatedriven, physicians and patients alike are yearning for a return to the essence of medicine—a relationship founded on trust, empathy and individualized attention. In this article, we delve into the challenges facing American healthcare, the consequences of a profit-driven system and the emerging movement to restore the soul of healthcare through patient-centered practices.

The profit-driven healthcare paradigm In recent years, the pursuit of profit has become the driving force behind healthcare decisions, often at the expense of patient welfare. Pharmaceutical companies hike prices on life-saving medications, insurance companies prioritize profits over coverage and hospitals are driven to maximize revenue at the cost of quality care. This profitdriven paradigm has shifted the focus away from patients, leaving them as mere numbers in a system plagued by administrative burdens and impersonal interactions.

The BMO Center celebrates their newly renovated box office on Elm Street in Rockford, with a Ribbon Cutting, panel discussion and tour, October 12, 2023.

The adverse effects on physicians and patients The consequences of a profit-driven healthcare system are felt by both physicians and patients. Physicians are burdened with excessive administrative tasks, electronic health records and the pressure to see more patients in less time, resulting in burnout and a compromised doctor-patient relationship. Meanwhile, patients face rising costs, limited access to care and a loss of trust in a system that puts financial gain above their well-being. The soul of American healthcare is slowly eroding, leaving behind disillusioned physicians and disheartened patients.

A call for patientcentered care

Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum celebrated the completion of their new cottage roof at 411 Kent Street in Rockford.

Amidst the prevailing challenges, a movement is gaining momentum—one that advocates for a return to patientcentered care. Physicians who have witnessed the erosion of their profession are reclaiming the art of healing by embracing practices that put patients at the center. These physicians seek to restore the sacred bond between doctor and patient, prioritizing meaningful

connections and personalized care over profit margins and administrative tasks.

The emergence of direct primary and specialty care practices Across the country, direct care practices are redefining the healthcare landscape. Cash-based and membership models are emerging as viable alternatives to the traditional insurance-based system.

These practices prioritize direct access, longer appointment times and unhindered decision-making, allowing physicians to focus on providing quality care tailored to the unique needs of each patient. By circumventing insurance complexities, these practices aim to reduce administrative burdens and restore the physician’s role as a healer.

The revival of the soul of healthcare The movement to restore the soul of American healthcare is driven by a shared vision—one that recognizes the importance of human connection, compassion and individualized attention in the healing process. It aims to realign healthcare with its fundamental purpose—to improve the health and well-being of patients.

By championing patient-centered care, we can create a system where physicians thrive in their vocation and patients receive the care they deserve.

This movement is designed to bring physicians and patients back to the table and move the corporate sector out.

The state of healthcare in America demands a critical examination of the prevailing profit-driven paradigm.

As we navigate the complexities of the healthcare landscape, it is crucial to remember the true essence of medicine—a partnership between physician and patient rooted in trust, empathy and personalized care.

The movement to restore patientcentered practices offers a glimmer of hope, signaling a shift towards a more compassionate, sustainable and fulfilling healthcare system. Let’s come together to reclaim the soul of American healthcare and ensure that the well-being of patients remains at the forefront of our efforts.

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

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

November 2023

GUEST COLUMNIST

Dealing with the death of a baby The Haven Network supports families in their time of loss STEPHANIE GRIMM, The Haven Network

(continued from the front page)

Cohen has been featured on Fortune.com and Medium.com discussing the value women bring to the workforce.

The Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce will present awards recognizing women in the Rockford community—Excellence in Leadership, Community Hero, Emerging Leader of the Year, and Woman Business Owner of the Year.

Speakers for 2023 Pow(H)er: Your support and understanding can make a difference in their grief journey, and there are a number of ways you can kindly and respectfully acknowledge their loss:

In 1988, President Ronald Regan designated October as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month to encourage Americans to show their support of parents enduring the death of a baby.

In the U.S. one in four pregnancies end in miscarriage or stillbirth and 2,300 babies less than four months old die of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) annually. There’s a good chance that someone you know has endured a miscarriage, stillbirth or a loss due to SIDS. Since 2004, the Haven Network has supported local families who have lost a baby to miscarriage, stillbirth, SIDS, early infant death or terminal diagnosis.

We begin in the hospital following the birth of the child by creating a memory box for each family and photographing each baby and their family. The memory boxes and photography capture all the beautiful little details of each baby.

We also provide essential resources for the immediate next steps such as funeral planning. Our care continues for as long as each family needs with wellness checks, grief counseling, parent support groups, remembrance events and more.

In a society uncomfortable with death, the death of a baby or young child is even more isolating to the parents and family.

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• Allison Alexander, CPA and financial advisor for Savant Wealth Management • Tamika Brown, owner of Infinite Soul Vibrations • Anisha Grimmett, owner of A New Look by Nisha • Emily Hartzog, senior vice president from Chartwell Agency

• send a card, especially on the oneyear anniversary of their baby’s passing.

• say their baby’s name in conversation.

• check in on them in the weeks and months following the death of their child.

• allow them to grieve as they need to.

• Yvonne Henderson Decker, founder and CEO of The Signature

You can also encourage them to attend the annual Walk to Remember, held the first Sunday in October, or the annual Angel of Hope Candlelight Vigil, held every December 6 at the angel statue on the corner of East State Street and Water Street. Information about these events and more can be found at www. thehavennetwork.org.

The Haven Network encourages the community to support employees, coworkers, friends and family members enduring the death of a baby. This past October, many of you lit candles with us during the International Wave of Light in remembrance of families and their child.

Visit The Haven Network’s Facebook page to see their stories.

Stephanie Grimm is co-executive director at The Haven Network, a local nonprofit serving bereaved families in the community.

• Whitney Martin, assistant news director and morning anchor at

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

Image LLC • Theresa Kegley, founder of Movement Fitness • Kesia King, founder and CEO of CHOP CHOP Mobile Salon & Barber; • Elizabeth Muldowney, financial advisor and member owner of Savant Wealth Management • Rebecca Francis, founder of Ignite Change Solutions Eyewitness News • Maryjo Pirages Reynolds, attorney and partner at Allen, Galluzzo, Hevrin, Leake LLC law firm • Mandolen Mull, Ph.D., founder of MullMentum Consulting LLC • Marie Pawlak, founder of Prime Alchemy Group • Lisa Seymour, associate executive director of program support and founder of Broken 2 Be Blessed Ministries • Dr. Erin Terada, director of clinical training for Relief Mental Health • Nicole Walker, award-winning podcaster, international speaker and podcast strategist • Jerilyn Willin, speaker and Coach for J Willin Consulting • Vanessa Zamy, entrepreneurship trainer from Your Vision’s Catalyst • Rosie Zilinskas, executive career coach from No Woman Left Behind Visit www.powherrockford.com to register for Pow(H)er and the Women-in-Business Luncheon Seats are limited, so register by November 8 to guarantee your participation.

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

November 2023

(continued from page 11)

GUEST COLUMNIST

Rockford Promise scholar support program KAYLENE GROH, executive director, Rockford Promise

A pathway to college degree completion

Since 2016, Rockford Promise has provided more than 500 full-tuition scholarships to deserving Rockford Public School students attending Rockford University, Rock Valley College (RVC) or Northern Illinois University (NIU). All thanks to the generosity of local donors, foundations, businesses and individuals.

Encouraging and implementing a college-going culture is key to a community’s talent development pipeline and can provide local employers with a pool of ready and available employees.

But Rockford Promise doesn’t stop at scholarships. We also have a scholar support program.

Why is scholar support important?

Financial barriers are just part of the college equation for first-generation college students, minority students, or those from a lower socioeconomic background: • Only 26% of first-generation college students complete their degree, according to a May 2021 study by Pew Research Center.

• Black, Hispanic, and American Indian students complete college within six years at rates at least 20% lower than their White and Asian American counterparts.

• Around 90% of individuals from low-income households do not complete their college degree in six years, according to EAB, an education consulting firm.

Rockford Promise’s mission is to support our scholars to and through college. Scholarships have always been matched by scholar support efforts as a way to encourage students to complete their degrees. Scholar support includes robust community mentorships, strong academic advising and meaningful peer social connections to ensure they earn their degrees and jumpstart successful careers.

“I didn’t expect the incredible support I got from Rockford Promise staff, from freshman mentor circles and the student success series, to having an on-campus academic advisor. I never feel alone, and I know Rockford Promise has my back,” said Eddie Hoffman, a sophomore at NIU. While the Rockford Promise program on the NIU campus is still fairly new, with the first cohort of students having arrived in Fall 2021, students are already posting very strong results. The average GPA is

2017, and ending on January 1, 2026.

In order for credits to be claimed, a written policy is required to be in place stating that a minimum of two weeks paid family/medical leave and wages paid will not be less than 50% of annual wages. Only employees who have been with a company for over one year are eligible for paid employee leave.

Retirement plans 3.2, with 75 students achieving a GPA of 3.5 or higher, and 56 students falling within the 3.0-3.49 range. Notably, these scholars have a retention rate from their first to second year that is eight points higher than the student average at NIU. Such rates seem to point to the strength of the Rockford Promise scholar support program. According to a study conducted by Stanford in 2011, analyzing over 13,000 college-student records, students who utilized mentoring and coaching services had a 10-15% higher likelihood of continuing their college education.

Additionally,

the

study

showed a four percentage point increase in graduation rates among students who received coaching compared to those who did not.

These success rates are also bearing out for students at Rockford University and Rock Valley College. Rockford University reports a 92% graduation rate for Rockford Promise scholars at their campus, and Rock Valley College scholars are graduating within three years at three times the national average.

Rockford Promise is committed to the success of our local Rockford Public School students in achieving a college education. The efforts are unique to each scholar and can be a complex network of academic, social and emotional support or as simple as a thoughtful mentor helping them uncover the talent and resources they already have. What remains consistent is Rockford Promise’s presence

throughout

its

scholars’

journeys, removing barriers to their success and paving the way for a brighter future.

If you believe in the power of education to unlock the potential of individuals, families and communities, we’d welcome the opportunity to share more about Rockford Promise with you. With your help, Rockford Promise scholars will enter and graduate from college

knowing

their

community

wholeheartedly supports them. For more information, visit rockfordpromise.org.

Kaylene Groh is executive director for Rockford Promise and a passionate 18-year resident of Rockford.

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

According to Will Lopez, Head of Mission and Chief Ambassador for Gusto, the most common benefitsrelated tax deductions for small business owners are retirement vehicles like SEPIRAs, SIMPLE 401(k)s, and 401(k)s.

While there are limits to the amount, you can usually deduct contributions you make to your employees’ retirement plans, as well as your own.

Under the SECURE Act and the SECURE 2.0 Act, three distinct tax credits have been introduced to encourage the adoption of retirement plans and employer contributions: Startup Tax Credit. To qualify for this credit, businesses must meet three criteria: • Have 100 or fewer employees who were given a minimum of $5,000 in compensation in the prior year.

• Cover a minimum of one non-Highly Compensated Employee (HCE) with your retirement plan.

• Ensure that, in the three tax years preceding eligibility, the plan does not cover the same employees as another retirement plan sponsored by the business, a related entity, or a predecessor.

Employer Contribution Tax Credit.

To qualify for this credit, a business must meet the eligible employer criteria for the Startup Tax Credit. Employers can receive a maximum annual credit of $1,000 per eligible employee, provided the eligible employee’s annual compensation doesn’t exceed $100,000.

The credit amount varies based on the number of employees and the years since the plan’s initiation.

Auto-Enrollment Tax Credit.

Small businesses can receive a $500 tax credit for implementing an automatic enrollment feature in their 401(k) plan, as long as it complies with Eligible Automatic Contribution Arrangement (EACA) requirements. Eligibility for this credit is solely based on having 100 or fewer employees earning a minimum of $5,000 in the prior year. Starting in 2025, most 401(k) plans will be required to include the auto-enrollment feature.

These credits help with retirement savings opportunities and financial security for employees while lightening the burden on employers.

Office renovations for accessibility While repainting the office won’t count toward your tax deductions, any type of renovation that helps accommodate employees with disabilities may be considered tax-deductible.

“If your office has undergone renovations to make it more accessible to differently-abled people, then you can claim credit as long as your small enterprise has less than $1 million in revenue and less than 30 full-time staff,” said Kessler.

One example is the Barrier Removal Tax Deduction, which rewards any business for removing structural or transportation barriers restricting disabled individuals. Companies have the option to deduct qualified expenses, typically subject to capitalization, of up to $15,000 annually. This credit can be used alongside the Disabled Access tax credit yearly.

Tuition reimbursement More companies than ever are offering tuition reimbursement as part of their compensation package, and with good reason: Both employees and employers can reap the benefits. Investing in employees’ education helps attract and retain top talent, subsequently lowering recruiting costs as well as strengthening a company’s reputation and overall success.

Even better, tuition reimbursement comes at a minimal cost to organizations, as it is a tax-deductible perk.

In the tuition reimbursement process, an employee will pay upfront for college, graduate, or continuing education coursework. Once the semester is complete, the employer reimburses the employee for some or all of their previously paid tuition, so long as the student meets all listed criteria. This criterion may vary by company, but it typically includes a minimum grade or overall GPA, as well as coursework that is related to the employee’s job or industry.

While this may sound like a high expense, money spent on tuition or education reimbursement is taxdeductible — up to $5,250 per employee per year. Employers can deduct this per-employee amount from their own taxes each year. There are also additional government reimbursement programs that may apply to individuals taking jobor duty-specific coursework. As long as a business has the upfront capital for reimbursement, the actual long-term cost is oftentimes minimal and well worth it for companies and their staff alike.

If you’re planning to implement a tuition assistance program, you’ll want to seek legal assistance to ensure it meets federal, state, and local laws and guidelines.

Tools and resources Many “reasonable and necessary” business expenses also qualify for tax breaks. For example, professional publications and other continuing education materials can be deducted from your business taxes. Tools and uniforms purchased by the employer also qualify for a deduction, though some may deduct the cost of these items from their employees’ paychecks. Note that if tools will be used for more than a year, they must be depreciated.

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

19

November 2023

in the news

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

Rockford Chamber members appear bolded.

Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members.

1. Sonia Jass

2. Reverend Jhonatan Sarmiento

3. Robert E. Grese

4. Matilda AbuSaba, MD

5. Mehwish Aziz, MD

6. Gabriella Fuchs, MD

7. Syed Parvez Quadri, MD

8. Dr. Timothy Carroll

9. Timothy Niedzielak, DO

10. Jibran Rana, MD

11. Gina Adams

12. Pamela Timmons

13. Dr. Trish Patterson, AuD

14. Melissa Fernandez

15. Tammy Hawks

16. Philip Simonton

17. Don O’Day

18. Julie Sandberg

19. Ned Burns

20. Kayla Sojka, PA

21. Dr. Steven Kim, MD

Fehr Graham is proud to announce the hiring of Philip Simonton (16) as a Hydrogeologist in our Rockford, Illinois, office.

David N. McCoy, President and Chief 25. Kevin 24. Keith 23. Alejandra 22. Jennifer Executive Officer (CEO) Chatfield McCormick Fonseca Houck is retiring from First National Bank and Trust (FNBT), and as President of Centre 1 Bancorp, Inc, the bank’s BOARD APPOINTMENTS NEW HIRES, PROMOTIONS, holding company. He will remain with the bank in a consultative role RETIREMENTS, DEATHS Boylan Catholic High School is through March 31, 2024, as the honored to announce Sonia Jass (1) bank transitions Don O’Day (17), Mercyhealth is pleased to welcome and Reverend Jhonatan Sarmiento Executive Vice President (EVP) Chief Matilda Abu-Saba, MD (4), internal Operating Officer to President and (2) as the newest additions to its medicine doctor, to ; Mehwish Aziz, CEO of the bank. He will also serve Board of Consultors, which provides MD (5), family medicine physician; as President of the holding company. advice, counsel, and assistance to Gabriella Fuchs, MD (6), board certified pediatrician and fellowship Boylan’s President.

FNIC Trusted Insurance Advisors is trained neonatologist; Syed Parvez proud to announce Julie Sandberg Robert E. Grese (3), Emeritus Quadri, MD (7), fellowship trained (18) as Employee Benefits Account Professor in the School of infectious disease; Dr. Timothy Manager and Ned Burns (19) as Environment and Sustainability, Carroll (8), internal medicine Sales Executive Employee Benefits University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, doctor; Timothy Niedzielak, DO (9), both for the Rockford, IL team. has been elected to the Board of orthopedic surgeon, and Jibran Rana, OSF HealthCare is pleased to add the Smeja Homestead Foundation, MD (10), interventional cardiologist.

Kayla Sojka, PA (20) a new general a local nonprofit organization Illinois Extension has a long-standing surgery physician’s assistant to its dedicated to historic preservation commitment to providing youth staff to better serve the community and conservation of the cultural development programs throughout of Rockford and surrounding areas. landscape. the state. Locally, in the Rockford OSF HealthCare also added a new Midway Village Museum is pleased area, Extension has recently colorectal and general surgeon, Dr. to announce the addition of Tara welcomed Gina Adams (11) into a Steven Kim, MD (21), to its staff Blazer to its Board of Directors. to better serve the community of new role as 4-H Youth Development Rockford and surrounding areas.

Educator.

The Alpine Kiwanis Club installed the following New Officers/Board Engineering Enterprises, Inc. (EEI) Independence Village welcomes of Directors: K. Patrick Yarbrough, is proud to announce the hiring of Pamela Timmons (12) as Senior President; Ann Bruce, Presidenta new Accounting / Administrative Solutions Advisor. elect; Roxanne Vanderheyden, Assistant to the team, Jennifer The Center for Sight & Hearing has Vice President; Pat Kasmar, Club Houck (22). hired Dr. Trish Patterson, AuD (13), Secretary; Kathy Vigna, Membership The Rockford IceHogs announced as Audiology Clinic Director.

Secretary & Administrative former IceHogs head coach CoyleKiley Insurance Agency, Inc. Treasurer; John Spitzer, Charities Steve Martinson will join team Is pleased to welcome Melissa Treasurer and Dave Bennett, broadcaster Mike Folta on select Fernandez (14) in the Employee Immediate Past President. The home broadcasts this season on Benefits Department. members joining the Board of the IceHogs Broadcast Network Directors for 2023-2024 are Ted Tammy Hawks (15), Accountant, presented by BMO. Martinson is Plum, Valerie Johnson, Courtney joined Rockford Mutual in scheduled to make his on-air debut September. this Friday and Saturday when the Miller and Carl Pearson.

IceHogs take on the Iowa Wild and Grand Rapids Griffins at the BMO Center.

EMPLOYEE/COMMUNITY RECOGNITIONS, AWARDS Keith Country Day School, the region’s premier college-preparatory school, announced that 12th grader Alejandra Fonseca (23) has earned academic honors from the College Board National Recognition Programs. Specifically, Fonseca received the National Hispanic Recognition Award.

First National Bank and Trust (FNBT), is pleased to announce that Keith McCormick (24) has recently graduated from the Graduate School of Banking (GSB) at the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

He also received a Certificate of Executive Leadership from the Wisconsin School of Business Center for Professional and Executive Development.

Litesa Wallace founder of LITE Strategies LLC, has been selected to participate in the prestigious Crain’s Academy Leadership Program. This selective program, conducted in conjunction with the prestigious University of Chicago Booth School of Business is designed to cultivate and empower outstanding leaders across various industries, recognizing their potential to drive positive change within their communities and organizations.

Matt Honson, current NAILD Treasurer, attended the 2023 NAILD Convention on behalf of Thayer Energy Solutions.

Forest City Gear, an industry-leading manufacturer of fine and medium pitch custom gears, is proud to recognize Kevin Chatfield (25) on his 35th anniversary and thank him for his long-term dedication to the company.

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THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

November 2023

business

BUSINESS BRIEFS

In late October, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Illinois Field Office Director Kimberly Danna presented a $10 million Office of Public and Indian Housing Capital Improvements check to the Rockford Housing Authority in conjunction with National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week. This award is given to Public Housing Agencies to identify and eliminate housing-related hazards in public housing, including lead-based paint and other housing hazards.

Mother Christmas needs help again this year to provide wonderful Christmas gifs for the children, teenagers, and adults with intellectual developmental disabilites served

by Goldie Floberg. Beginning Wednesday, November 1, 2023, wish lists will be ready and Mother Christmas’ helpers will be answering calls at (815) 708-7479 and messages at MotherChristmas@GoldieFloberg. org for suggestions in the range of $5-$30 and donations to support the project. Individuals, community groups, and businesses are all encouraged to take part and make this the best Christmas for the kids and adults Goldie Floberg serves.

Unwrapped gifts will be collected at Floberg’s administrative office at 4960 E. State Street, Suite 300, Rockford, between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. by Monday, December 12th. More drop off sites are Roscoe Pack & Mail, 5062 Rockrose Court in Roscoe, Getz Fire Equipment, 2420 Harrison Ave in Rockford, and Choreo, LLC or RSM US LLP, 1252 Bell Valley Road, 3rd Floor in Rockford. Drop-offs should be made inside the buildings during regular business hours. For those interested in helping, but not shopping, Mother Christmas is glad to shop with your donation! Contributions can be made safely online at GoldieFloberg.org, through PayPal (@GoldieFloberg), on Facebook, or by texting ‘Christmas’ to 815-683-3247.

Savant Wealth Management is pleased to announce it has been recognized by Barron’s as one of the 2023 Top 100 Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) Firms. Savant earned the No. 31 spot, moving up from its No. 33 ranking in 2022 and No. 36 in 2021.

Forest City Gear has updated its technology infrastructure and policies in compliance with Level 2 Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0. The CMMC program ensures the protection of federal contract information and controlled unclassified information for suppliers within the U.S. Department of Defense’s supply chain. Through self-assessments aligned with NIST SP 800.171, Forest City Gear policies have proven to meet the 110 practices required for CMMC 2.0 compliance.

Region 1 Planning Council (R1) was awarded the National Award for Excellence in MPO Coordination & Partnership at the Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations’ (AMPO) annual conference on September 27. R1 was selected for this honor from among its metropolitan planning organization (MPO) peers nationwide. AMPO is the national transportation organization providing federal policy advocacy, technical support, and peer-topeer collaboration for metropolitan planning organizations.

WNIJ 89.5 FM, northern Illinois’ local NPR affiliate, brought home six awards from the Illinois News Broadcasters Association in September, including three first place “Crystal Mic” awards.

Forest City Gear sponsored the Stone Bridge ½ marathon and 5K race on Saturday, September 23, 2023, in Roscoe, IL. The race was organized by the Stateline YMCA and benefits LIVESTRONG at the YMCA in Beloit, WI, a small group program designed for supporting adult cancer survivors.

Goldie Floberg’s annual donor recognition dinner was on September 21 at Midway Village Museum and catered by GreenFire.

Generous sponsors were Choreo, LLC, CoyleKiley Insurance Agency, Inc., Schmeling Construction Co., Crusader Community Health, The Georganne Eggers Family, and Wells Fargo Advisors.

Visitor spending in Rockford and Winnebago County reached a record-breaking $508.5 million in 2022, showing a significant increase of $72.1 million or 16.5 percent compared to 2021 and topping prepandemic spending of $480 million in 2019. This data, released by the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, marks a significant milestone in the recovery of the travel and tourism industry, which suffered severe losses during the Covid-19 pandemic. Prior to the pandemic, tourism spending grew in Rockford and Winnebago County for 10 consecutive years at rates that outpaced growth in comparable Illinois cities and counties. In 2020, spending dropped to $358.5 million from $480 million in 2019. The surge in spending also contributed to employment and payroll growth, resulting in the creation of 782 new positions for local individuals for a total of 4,580 jobs, with $158 million in payroll, directly supported by visitors. Further, visitor spending contributed $13.8 million in local tax revenue and $32.7 million in state tax revenue, representing an increase of 23.2 percent and 26.7 percent.

The Alliance was honored with a 2023 BenefitsPRO LUMINARIES Award for its work to make

Rockford Chamber members appear bolded.

Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members.

healthcare more accessible and affordable in the Midwest. The second-annual LUMINARIES Awards celebrates organizations and individuals who are actively shaping the future of benefits and healthcare.

Forest City Gear hosted a tour for students of the Gleason Gear School on September 20, 2023. For more than 70 years, Gleason Cutting Tools’ school has led seminars in Rockford, IL on math, gear theory, and the required tooling, manufacture, and inspection of gears. Forest City Gear’s President Kika Young led the tour with help from Estimating Engineer Carl Wedig, Customer Quality Engineer Jacob Hutmacher, CNC Machining Division Manager Mike Miller, and Secondary Machining Supervisor Mark Sweet.

Comcast announced it has proactively connected its fiberrich network to multiple mall properties across the company’s Greater Chicago Region in Illinois and Indiana, including CherryVale Mall in Rockford. Mall traffic is experiencing a resurgence.

Some malls are experiencing a shift in tenants, while others are transforming from traditional retail destinations into anchor communities that include everything from entertainment venues, medical offices, service businesses, and public gathering spaces to office facilities and even residential buildings – in addition to retail. As a result, in many instances, the redevelopment is occurring both inside and outside mall structures and spilling onto the mall property.

With Comcast’s network in place, the company can deliver Internet speeds up to 100 Gbps to businesses and residential speeds faster than a Gigabit, along with its full suite of Comcast Business and Xfinity residential services, to mall properties.

Members of Rock Valley College leadership presented at the Association of Community College Trustees (AACT) Leadership Congress in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Board of Trustees Chair Gloria Cudia joined Drs. Spearman, Smith, and Stewart. Together, they presented Manufacturing Student Success Through Industry Partnerships.

The National Council for Marketing and Public Relations (NCMPR) recently recognized Rock Valley College’s (RVC) Marketing and Communications team for their outstanding achievements in design and communication. The team attended the NCMPR District 3/5 Conference in St. Louis, MO, and proudly walked away with three prestigious Medallion Awards.

Region 1 Planning Council (R1) received a $166,360 grant from the Illinois Department of Transportation

to create a Parking Reimagined plan for the Rockford Region. This plan will show how parking in Rockford can evolve over the next 5-10 years to provide space for vehicles, while also accounting for equity, affordability, efficient land use, economic development, community design, and environmental sustainability.

Forest City Gear is proud to announce its sponsorship of the Northern Illinois University Chapter of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE). This student-led organization is open to women in engineering and STEM majors and aims to provide members with connections and training to help them in their postgrad careers.

Savant Wealth Management, a nationally recognized, fee-only registered investment advisor (RIA), has been recognized by Financial Planning as one of the top 20 feeonly RIAs in the nation by assets under management (AUM) for 2023.

Savant landed the number seven spot on the “RIA Leaders 2023” list, with approximately $17 billion in AUM, jumping from the No. 13 spot in 2022.

Courtney Geiger, Mission Services Director for Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois, gave a presentation titled “Employment Services for Problem Solving Courts” during the three-day 2023 Illinois Association of Problem-Solving Courts Conference (ILAPSC) in Normal, IL. The ILAPSC Conference held in October brought together hundreds of individuals from around the state to explore the latest research and issues of justiceinvolved individuals with behavioral health needs. The ILAPSC mission is to promote problem-solving courts in Illinois by providing education, assistance, training and development through the collaboration of behavioral health and justice systems.

The National Safety Council (NSC) is pleased to announce that Rock Valley College Traffic Safety has been selected as a recipient of the prestigious 2022 DDC Training Center of the Year Award. This award is presented to organizations that have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the shared mission of eliminating preventable deaths through driver safety training.

Rock Valley College Traffic Safety’s commitment to this cause has not only helped save lives but has also contributed to the overall progress on the Road to Zero.

Through the B2B Arts Grant program, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) distributed a historic $50 million in grant money to assist businesses, nonprofit

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

November 2023

business

BUSINESS BRIEFS

organizations, and sole proprietors in the creative sector that have suffered losses because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Rockford Area Arts Council served as the communication bridge on behalf of the State’s advocacy agency, Arts Alliance Illinois, helping to secure over $400,000 in relief funding for local arts and culture agencies and creative sole proprietorships Boylan Catholic High School sent 311 Juniors and Seniors and 40 staff to participate in United Way of Rock River Valley’s day of service. Boylan

Rockford Chamber members appear bolded.

Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members.

contributed 1,193 total hours of work to the Rockford community in one day.

Committee is leading the firm’s efforts to promote a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren has successfully earned the Mansfield Rule 6.0 Certification for 2023 for the second year in a row.

This certification mandates that companies must consider candidates from diverse backgrounds for leadership positions, promotions, and client pitch meetings. This year, only 106 mid-size law firms in the U.S. were able to achieve this certification. Reinhart’s DEI

Residents living near Rockford Park District’s Harmon Park, 1924 East Gate Parkway, Rockford were among the first to utilize and celebrate new park amenities which will help improve their quality of life. Construction began at the end of June on a variety of park improvements including: a new recreation path with fitness stations and pathway lighting. The asphalt pathway is 8’ wide and a total of 1/3

community COMMUNITY EVENTS

21

mile in length and goes around the perimeter of the park maintaining existing trees and foliage. Three fitness stations and twenty-nine LED pathway lights on timers are also located along the pathway.

This project was made possible by a $432,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) secured through the advocacy of Representative West who went door-to-door asking residents about their wants and needs within the neighborhood.

Rockford Chamber members appear bolded.

Thank you for your support of your fellow Chamber members.

NOVEMBER

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1

State of Culture hosted by the Rockford Area Arts Council, 6-8:30 p.m., Veterans Memorial Hall, 211 N. Main Street, Rockford. Data gathered, since this past March, will be shared and it is the last opportunity for the public to give input as to the priorities of the Cultural Plan! The event is FREE and dinner will be provided.

Indoor Farmers Market, 9am-1pm, Edgebrook, 1639 N. Alpine Road, Rockford. Twelve vendors from the outdoor market will bring produce, flowers, plants, and baked goods indoors for patrons to enjoy great locally grown and made items. The market reoccurs every Wednesday through December 6. No Market on November 22.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3 Peripheral Artery Disease Lunch Seminar, noon, Javon Bea HospitalRockton, 2400 N. Rockton Ave., Rockford. Mercyhealth will offer a free lunch seminar on the importance of getting screened for peripheral artery disease and minimally invasive ways to approach treatment.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5 Smashing Pumpkins, 11am-2pm, Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main Street, Rockford.

Boylan Catholic High School Open House, 10am-1pm, 4000 St. Francis Dr., Rockford. Incoming freshmen and transfer students are invited to visit and learn all that Boylan has to offer. Prospective students and families will have the opportunity to meet with current students, teachers, faculty and coaches.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6 Generational Estate Planning Seminar hosted by Family Defined Benefits, 6-8pm, Lino’s, 5611 E. State Street, Rockford. Learn about Generational Estate Planning - Wills, Living Trusts & Probate How to protect your home, property, and your heirs’ inheritance from Probate or being swallowed up by nursing home care expenses.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9 Rodney Carrington, 7-11pm, Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main Street, Rockford.

Healthy Holiday Charcuterie Boards, 6-7:30p.m., Winnebago County University of Illinois Extension, 1040 N. Second Street, Rockford. During this workshop, learn what a charcuterie board is, what elements go into making a traditional board, the nuances of selecting a board or platter, how to make modifications to enjoy without feeling guilty, and food safety tips.

Leave with inspiration and resources to make a healthy and delicious charcuterie board this holiday season. Register for this holiday program by calling the Extension office at (815) 986-4357 or visit us online at go.illinois. edu/jsw. There is a $5.00 fee, which will cover the educational session.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11 15th Year Anniversary Celebration – Artale Grand Tasting. Tony Artale Memorial Foundation Fundrasier. 5:30-8:30pm, Nicholas Conservatory, 1354 N 2nd St, Rockford. Please Call the store 815-877-9463 or stop in to purchase tickets.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14 Understanding Personal & Business Credit & Demystifying the Lending Process. 5:30-8pm, Rock Valley College’s Main Campus, Student Center Atrium, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford. Hosted by Illinois SBDC at Rock Valley College & BMO.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16 Dining in the Dark Benefiting Center for Sight & Hearing, 6pm, Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, 200 S. Bell School, Rockford. The dinnerfocused event is a hands-on chance to experience how someone with little to no vision performs everyday tasks. Program highlights include cocktail hour, live music, a delicious dinner entrée, and a cash wine pull. Tickets cost $85/person or $600 for a table of eight.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17 Edgebrook’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, 5:30-6:30pm, Edgebrook, 1639 N. Alpine Road, Rockford. Enjoy holiday carols performed by the Boylan and Rockford Lutheran High School Choirs awaiting the countdown for the Edgebrook Tree to be lit for the first time this season!

Countdown televised LIVE on WIFR TV Channel 23 during the 6pm News.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18 Beethoven’s Fifth – Rockford Symphony Orchestra, 7pm, Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main Street, Rockford.

Dancing with the Rockford Stars, 6-11pm, Tebala Event Center, 7910 Newburg Road, Rockford. Benefiting Family Counseling Services. Purchase tickets at familycounselingrockford.org

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23 Thanksgiving Dinner, 11am – 1pm, Court Street United Methodist Church, 215 N. Court Street, Rockford. More than 930 local residents will enjoy a free Thanksgiving Dinner as either carryout or drive-through meals (limit 2 per person). Approximately 125 volunteers will step forward to help prepare the turkey breast needed, along with mashed potatoes, vegetables, dressing, cranberry sauce, and 175 pies.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25 Dasher Dash 5k, 12pm, Downtown Rockford. The Dasher Dash 5k, is a holiday themed race through downtown Rockford. Participants will receive a finisher medal and shirt. Registration closes Thursday, November 23 at 11:59 p.m. There will be no race day registration.

Stroll on State, 2pm, Downtown Rockford. Stroll on State is held annually on the Saturday after Thanksgiving--Small Business Saturday--and is the Rockford region’s kick-off to the holiday season. The free community event in downtown Rockford features a parade, fireworks, tree lighting, musical performances, surprise visits from Santa, and so much more! Visit https:// www.gorockford.com/stroll-on-state/ for more information.

Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland, 7:30pm, Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main Street, Rockford. “Wonderland” is an all-new musical journey that will transport audiences to a magical land far away for a fun-filled, unforgettable holiday-themed show experience.

22

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

November 2023

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS Thank you to members who renewed with the Rockford Chamber of Commerce in September 2023 AAR Aircraft Services

Olson Enterprises LLC

Absolute Grinding & Manufacturing, Inc.

Olson Funeral & Cremation Services Ltd./Fred C. Olson Chapel

Alpine Body Shop, Inc. American Roofing Supply Amundsen Davis BelRock Asphalt Paving Inc. Benson Stone Company, Inc. Bergstrom Inc.

Olson Funeral & Cremation Services, Ltd./North Main Chapel & Care Center PNC Bank Premier Technologies

QPS Employment Group Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren P.C. Crosby Starck Real Estate Rockford Ambulatory Bobcat of Rockford Surgery Center BP Roofing Solutions Rockford Carpetland USA, Inc. Caraotta Chiropractic Rockford Cemetery Association, Orthopedics P.C. Greenwood Cemetery & Cellusuede Products, Inc. Crematorium City of Rockford Rockford Toolcraft, Inc. Colorwave Graphics, LLC S. J. Carlson Fire Protection Digital Hive Mind Social Kat Fitzgerald Equipment Co., Inc. Staff On Site Midwest Inc. GiGi’s Playhouse Rockford State Farm Insurance - Brian Faulk, Header Die & Tool, Inc. CLU, ChFC Keller Williams Realty Signature The Alliance Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) Luxe Productions Menta Academy Northwest Obsidian Manufacturing Industries, Inc.

ACADIA

ROCKFORD BUZZ

Rolloff dumpster rentals 5440 Newburg Rd Belvidere IL 61008 Matt Yarber (815) 964-4243 www.acadiawaste.com

Rockford’s premiere community resource for events, positive news and local businesses in the region 213 N 3rd St, 61107 Jacob Bradt (815) 977-7050 www.rockfordbuzz.com

ORTHOILLINOIS SPINE CENTER Only facility in northwestern Illinois dedicated to multidiscinplinary spinal care specializing in both surgical and non-surgical spinal disorders 2902 McFarland Rd Ste 300, 61107 Lynne Pratt (815) 398-9491 www.orthoillinois.com

Title Underwriters Agency Urban Equity Properties WATT Global Media Wesley Willows Wood CPA’s Ltd

OCTOBER 2023 ANNIVERSARIES Thank you to our members celebrating their anniversaries with the Rockford Chamber of Commerce

45 YEAR MEMBERS

10 YEAR MEMBERS

40 YEAR MEMBERS

5 YEAR MEMBERS

Olson Enterprises LLC

Crusader Community Health - West State Title Underwriters Agency

Rockford Fastener Inc.

ColorLab Cosmetics, Inc. Porter Pipe & Supply Co. Trekk, Inc.

25 YEAR MEMBERS D&S Marine Inc.

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT AND CIRCULATION 1. Publication Title: The VOICE of the Rockford Business Community

3541:

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 353

2. Publication Number: 784-120

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 2,941

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 468

3. Filing Date: 9/11/2023

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 2,891

h. Total (Sum of 15f and g):

4. Issue Frequency: Monthly

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 6,000

5. Number of Issues Published Annually: 12

(3) Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid or Requested Distribution Outside USPS®:

6. Annual Subscription Price: $25

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: N/A

7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: 308 W. State St., Ste. 350, Rockford, IL 61101-1104 Winnebago County.

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: N/A

i. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (15c divided by 15f times 100):

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 6,000

(4) Requested Copies Distributed by Other Mail Classes Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail®):

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 58.24%

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: N/A

16. Electronic Copy Circulation

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: N/A

a. Requested and Paid Electronic Copies:

Editor: N/A

c. Total Paid and/or Requested Distribution [Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), and (4)]:

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: N/A

Managing Editor: Doug Hessong, same as above.

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 3,289

10. Owner: Rockford Chamber of Commerce

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 3,227

b. Total Requested and Paid Print Copies (Line 15c) + Requested/Paid Electronic Copies (Line 16a):

Complete Mailing Address: 308W. State St., Ste. 350, Rockford, IL 61101-1104.

d. Nonrequested Distribution (By Mail and Outside the Mail)

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 3,289

(1) Outside County Nonrequested Copies Included on PS Form 3541:

11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities.

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 3,227

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: N/A No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: N/A

c. Total Requested Copy Distribution (Line 15f) + Requested/Paid Electronic Copies (Line 16a):

(2) In-County Nonrequested Copies Included on PS Form 3541:

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 5,647

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: N/A

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 5,532

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: N/A

d. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Both Print & Electronic Copies) (16b divided by 16c times 100):

8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher: Same as above.

9. Publisher: Rockford Chamber of Commerce, 308W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, IL 61101-1104.

Full Name: N/A Complete Mailing Address: N/A 12. Tax Status (For completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at special rates.) The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes: Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months.

13. Publication Title: The VOICE of the Rockford Business Community 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data: September 2023 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: Chamber members and distribution sites in the community. a. Total Number Copies (Net Press Run): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 6,000 No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 6,000 b. Legitimate Paid and/or Requested Distribution (By Mail and Outside the Mail): (1) Outside-County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 348 No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 336 (2) In-County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions Stated on PS Form

(3) Nonrequested Copies Distributed Through the USPS by Other Classes of Mail (e.g. First-Class Mail, nonrequestor copies mailed in excess of 10% limit mailed at Standard Mail® or Package Services rates): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: N/A No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: N/A 4) Nonrequested Copies Distributed Outside the Mail (Include pickup stands, trade shows, showrooms, and other sources):

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 58.33%

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: N/A

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 58.24% No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 58.33% I certify that 50% of all my distributed copies (electronic and print) are legitimate requests or paid copies.

17. Publication of Statement of Ownership for a Requestor Publication is required and will be printed in the November 2023 issue of this publication.

Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 2,358 No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 2,305 e. Total Nonrequested Distribution [Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3), and (4)]: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 2,358 No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 2,305 f. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15e): Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 5,647 No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: 5,532 g. Copies not Distributed:

I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete.

I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties): Signed: Doug Hessong, Dir. of Publications and Technology Date: Sept. 11, 2023

THEVOICE • rockfordchamber.com

23

November 2023

CHaMBER

ADVERTISERS INDEX

CHAMBER EVENTS

Illinois Bank & Trust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Chamber Night at the IceHogs. . . . . 10

NOVEMBER 2023

DECEMBER 2023

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

Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c.. . 12

Blackhawk Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Leading Lawyers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7

Boylan Catholic High School. . . . . . . . 4

Williams McCarthy LLP. . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Business Over Lunch- Using EX to Level Up: Focusing on Employee Experience and Development to Elevate your Business, 11:30 am, Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford.

Presented by Thayer Energy Solutions. Keynote speaker: Vanessa Hughes.

The Update, 9 am, NIU Rockford, 8500 E State St, Rockford. Premiere Small Business Sponsor Thayer Energy Solutions. Featuring Zack Oakley (Chicago Rockford International Airport), Dr. Gina Caronna (The Workforce Connection) and Laura Furman (Midway Village Museum).

Thayer Energy Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . 5

WNIJ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Stillman Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

POW(H)ER Event. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12

Pow(H)er, 8:15 am, Prairie Street Brewing, 200 Prairie St, Rockford.

Presented by AT&T.

Business Over Lunch- Increase Your Revenue Fast, 11:30 am, Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Rockford. Presented by Thayer Energy Solutions. Keynote speaker: Jean Kuhn.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17 Government Affairs Council, noon, Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St, Rockford. Presented by AT&T. Featuring Congressman Darin LaHood, schedule permitting.

Chamber Night at the IceHogs, 7:00 pm, BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St, Rockford. Join us for an evening entertainment at the Rockford Chamber Night with the IceHogs.

Riverview Inn and Suites. . . . . . . . . . . 6

VOICE

the

Chamber Staff / Call 815-987-8100

Direct Line

Caitlin Pusateri, President...................................................................... 815-316-4337 Melissa Adams, Executive Assistant..................................................... 815-316-4312 Susan Contrady, Account Executive..................................................... 815-316-4317 Doug Hessong, Director of Publications & Technology..................... 815-316-4338 Alex Keedi, Business Development Manager ..................................... 815-969-4252 Carmen Kellerman, Events Manager ................................................... 815-316-4302

SAVE THE DATE: Rockford Chamber Golf Classic May 20, 2024 The Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Club 11:00am lunch Noon Shotgun

SEPTEMBER VOICE SPECIAL SECTIONS

• The Importance of Nonprofits • Holiday Greetings Submit your article to editor@rockfordchamber.com

by November 10, 2023 For information on advertising, call 815 316-4337

Kristin Muehlfelder, Member Relations............................................... 815-316-4315 Doug Rand, Accounting Manager/Controller...................................... 815-316-4316 Joan Sundvall, Membership Contact Coordinator.............................. 815-316-4320 Andrew Wright, Director of Strategic Initiatives.................................. 815-987-8100 Matt Zarembski, Director of Investor Relations ................................. 815-987-8118

GREATER ROCKFORD CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Terry Voskuil Woodward, Inc., Chairman Lesly Couper workplace, Vice Chair Conor Brown NorthWest Illinois Alliance of Realtors, Treasurer

DIRECTORS Wendy Alsteen Hard Rock Casino Travis Andersen UW Health Northern Illinois Region

Paula Carynski OSF Healthcare St. Anthony Medical Cntr Jean Crosby Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Crosby Starck Real Estate Eric Cunningham Collins Aerospace Dietmar Goellner Advanced Machine & Hennig Engineering Thomas Green Barrick, Switzer, Long, Balsley & Van Evera, LLP Michael Gronewold Fehr Graham

Troy Haggestad WilliamsMcCarthy LLP Jeff Hultman Illinois Bank & Trust Carly LaMonica LaMonica Beverages, Inc. Frank Wehrstein Dickerson & Nieman Realtors

EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS Caitlin Pusateri Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce

presented by

Thursday, November 16, 2023 8:15am - 4:30pm

Prairie Street Brewing Co. | 200 Prairie St Rockford, IL 61107

Engage. Empower. Enthrall.

Register now at rockfordchamber.com