April Voice 2025

Local roots and a global reach

Aqua-Aerobic Systems leads water treatment innovation around the world

By GRCC Economic Development Team

Many businesses in our area quietly contribute to global industries, while maintaining strong local roots. One such company, Aqua-Aerobic Systems, has not only thrived in Rockford for five decades but is also playing a pivotal role in revolutionizing water treatment technology—locally, nationally, and internationally. As the company undergoes a major expansion, it’s clear that its impact extends far beyond its Loves Park headquarters.

Protecting the world’s water

Since its founding in 1969, AquaAerobic Systems has remained committed to one essential mission: To protect the world’s water. While that might seem like an ambitious goal, James Horton, president of Aqua-Aerobic Systems, believes it’s not just possible but necessary.

“We’ve been creating technologies that protect water for over 50 years,” Horton said. “Our mission is to ensure safe, clean water through advanced treatment solutions—whether it’s for wastewater, drinking water, or even tackling the challenge of ‘forever chemicals.’”

As environmental challenges continue to grow and become more complex, Aqua-Aerobic Systems is at the forefront of developing solutions to tackle water purification. Among their many innovations, they pioneered ceramic membrane technology for drinking water treatment and created world-leading wastewater purification systems.

More recently, Aqua-Aerobic has been instrumental in addressing the contamination of water supplies by perfluorinated chemicals, specifically perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). Both

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Government Affairs Committee update

Facilitating engagement between business and government

By Jean Crosby, chair, GRCC Government Affairs Committee

The newly formed Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) Government Affairs Committee is tasked with helping Chamber members get to know their local government and helping local officials—and the voting public—better understand the needs of the business community.

Any individual or business concerned about promoting a pro-business economic environment in the greater Rockford area needs to know about the issues facing our community. Political education is essential to increase voter awareness of how legislation, policies, regulation, and government resources can promote or impede economic growth in our region.

NOMINATE AN UNDER 40

We’re looking for all kinds of leaders from different professions and walks of life for our 40 under 40 recognition. Nominate a friend or coworker (or yourself) who has made a big impression in their profession while also giving back to the community.

Nominees must be 39 years old or younger as of December 31, 2025, and must live or work in Winnebago, Boone, Ogle, or Stephenson counties. Nomination forms at rockfordchamber.com/ recognize-a-leader. Deadline is March 30, 2025. A reception for honorees will be held Sept. 16.

COMMUNITY GUIDE & MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY

The Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) is partnering with Town Square Publications to produce our 2025 Community Guide & Membership Directory. This publication is an affordable advertising tool for marketing your product or service to area business owners, residents, and visitors. Additionally, a digital version of the Community Guide & Membership Directory will be available at rockfordchamber.com and Town Square’s National Profile Network, further extending your advertising exposure.

Town Square Publishing will be reaching out to GRCC members soon. To secure prime advertising space, please email marketing@tspubs.com or call 815-600-7707.

COMING SOON

Here are the editorial themes for upcoming issues of the VOICE: May – Built environments and infrastructure

June – Health and wellness

The Government Affairs Committee is currently laying the ground work necessary to implement our key initiatives.

Build stronger relationships

Central to the work of the Government Affairs Committee is building stronger relationships with members of our local city councils and county boards. Our goal is to make connections that foster trust, support decision-making, enhance credibility, share expertise, and promote collaboration for effective, long-term legislative and political success. A strong partnership between the public and private sectors is an avenue to sustaining the future of the Rockford Region.

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July – The business of sports Aug – Celebrating the 815 Members can submit up to two articles a year for publication in the VOICE. Articles should be topical and not a fact sheet or profile about your company. Think of it as participating in an expert panel—it’s your chance to share real-world experiences (good and bad), give advice, highlight best practices, and offer business insights that your fellow Chamber members would find beneficial. See our article guidelines and tips for authors at rockfordchamber. com/the-voice

Deadline for articles is the 5th of the month prior to publication.

CEO PERSPECTIVE

Defining thriving

Characteristics of a community in which businesses engage, innovate, and grow

By Angela Kay Larson, CEO, Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce

GRCC’s vision for the future is to “relentlessly grow, develop, and support a thriving business community.” In strategic planning terms, it’s a vision that’s aspirational, akin to the Lexus slogan touting “the relentless pursuit of perfection.” Both demonstrate a commitment to continuous progress toward the goals of perfection, or, in GRCC’s case, a thriving business community.

To give more clarity to GRCC’s vision, I’ve been working to define “thriving business community.” In researching how others describe thriving communities, I’ve narrowed the definition to five characteristics of a community in which businesses actively engage, innovate, and grow.

Strong social connections

A close-knit community of diverse businesspeople who genuinely know each other and actively support and promote each other’s goals and ventures.

When I participate in GRCC committee meetings, attend networking events, and join site visits with potential

developers and businesses, our region’s strong social connections are evident. I’ve heard outsiders describe our diverse gatherings as “authentic,” “honest,” and “genuinely collaborative.”

Does everyone in our business community experience these strong social connections? Probably not. But I believe we’re working to create more and more social networks among business groups, and GRCC is working hard to connect them all together. As people come and go from our community, we must work relentlessly to invite them in and keep the networks strong and connected.

Engaged leaders

Those with authority act in service to others, devoting time to enriching themselves, as well as teams and individuals within their organizations and throughout our community.

To lead is to accept the responsibility of serving others. I’ve seen the effects of “command and control” leadership styles, and while they have their place, the most effective leaders rely on styles that build trust and inspire action—styles that put

Angela Kay Larson was featured recently in Northwest Business Magazine. In the article, she discusses the Chamber’s reorganization, as well as her vision for GRCC and the region’s business community. You can find this in-depth interview under the Business tab at oldnorthwestterritory. northwestquarterly.com

others before themselves. These leaders follow the old adage of ensuring the “right people are in the right seats” and trusting them to leverage their time and talent to achieve their goals. I’ve learned that serving up a little recognition, a little fun, and a lot of coffee can help a team feel recognized, supported, and inspired.

One of the most popular programs offered by the Chamber is Leadership Rockford. Soon to celebrate its 70th cohort, Leadership Rockford is an eightmonth program that exposes 50 leaders to the many civic, cultural, and business aspects of our region while providing opportunities to network, give back to the community, and develop as leaders. The program is a model for what it means to be an engaged leader.

Opportunities for all

Whether starting a business, expanding responsibility within their organization, or accepting a promotion at a new company, doors are open to talented individuals based on their aptitude and merit.

Equity and opportunity are areas where our region has recently begun to emerge and shine. We are blessed with a mosaic of programs and services that allow individuals to grow, develop, and excel:

• Several local chambers that serve the needs of minority communities.

• Business and economic development entities that support neighborhoods and corridors.

• Bureaus and incubators that help ideas become small businesses.

• Maker spaces and programs that drive innovation.

• Education and training providers that develop talent.

GRCC’s commitment to “opportunities for all” is captured in our Equity Promise, a central tenant of our strategic plan and a way of conducting business. The promise states, “We partner with members and the community to foster a business culture of equity and

belonging where everyone is seen, heard, and valued.”

Supportive regulatory environment

Local, state, and federal leaders and policies that encourage entrepreneurship and business development.

Our new business sentiment survey (results on pages 12 and 13) revealed that nearly 40% of respondents are spending more time addressing government requirements and regulations. While I’m told that our local, state, and federal leaders are collaborating more than ever to improve our region, we have much to do to reduce taxes and regulations that negatively affect business growth.

This year, GRCC re-chartered our Government Affairs Committee, and that team, led by Jean Crosby, is working on our policy agenda. This agenda will outline the specific issues we will address and the positions GRCC will take to advocate on behalf of our members locally, in Springfield, and in Washington.

Economic strength

Our private, public, and nonprofit sectors are attracting new investments and developing new businesses in a variety of industries that offer workers living wages and benefits, programs to develop their education and skills, and opportunities to give back to the community.

As the region’s economic development organization, GRCC is one of many players that supports business retention, expansion, and attraction. Post-merger with the Rockford Area Economic Development Council (RAEDC), our organization is building our collaborative muscle to support innovators and startups, to attract new businesses to our region, to grow the pool of qualified workers, and to refer and connect businesses to each other and to resources that support their growth. v

As GRCC’s CEO, Angela Kay Larson strives to honor her leadership purpose, “to encourage others to see their worlds differently and inspire them to try new things.”

are synthetic chemicals belonging to the group of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their extreme persistence in the environment and resistance to degradation.

The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) new regulations on these chemicals are forcing many municipalities to search for advanced solutions, and Aqua-Aerobic is ready with technology that meets strict safety limits at a lower cost than existing alternatives.

“These chemicals have contaminated drinking water supplies in many areas,” Horton said. “The EPA now mandates extremely low limits for PFOS and PFOA, and our technology is designed to help communities meet those requirements efficiently and affordably.”

A beneficial partnership

While Aqua-Aerobic Systems is a global leader in water treatment technology, they maintain strong local ties through their long-standing partnership with the Four Rivers Sanitation Authority in Rockford.

“One of the great highlights of my career has been working with Four Rivers,” Horton said. “We started a research collaboration 15 years ago, which led to the construction of a oneof-a-kind research facility right here in Rockford.”

This 5,000-square-foot Aqua-Aerobic Research & Technology Center has enabled groundbreaking advancements in water treatment, and Four Rivers has implemented multiple Aqua-Aerobic Systems technologies to improve water quality in the region. Beyond that, the partnership has benefited Rockford residents directly.

“All of our technologies are built in Rockford,” Horton said. “That means we’re paying local vendors, partnering

with steel fabricators, piping companies, and electrical workers. The money invested in our projects circulates back into the local economy, creating jobs and sustaining businesses.”

Home grown and growing

As Aqua-Aerobic Systems continues to grow, so does its need for more space, resources, and talent. The company is currently undergoing a significant expansion, adding roughly 20,000 square feet of office space and 18,000 square feet of additional factory space at its Loves Park facility.

“We’ve been growing at about 20% per year, and, as a result, we’ve outgrown our current facilities,” Horton explained. “This expansion will allow us to house more employees and increase our manufacturing capacity.”

The expansion is also a response to an aggressive hiring strategy. In the last two years alone, Aqua-Aerobic has hired more than 60 new employees, with positions ranging from engineers and researchers to field service technicians and production specialists.

“We currently have around 15 open positions, including engineering, production control, purchasing, and field service roles,” Horton said. “We’re always looking for great talent, and we love to hire locally.”

Training skilled workers

Recognizing the challenges of finding skilled workers, Aqua-Aerobic Systems is taking a proactive approach by developing its own training program. This year, the company is launching the Aqua Service School, a four-year apprenticeship program designed to train new field service technicians.

“We’re starting with five local hires this fall who will go through handson training to become skilled service technicians,” Horton said. “This allows us to grow our own talent and ensure

that our workforce remains highly trained in the latest technologies.”

The initiative highlights a larger trend in the Rockford manufacturing sector—companies investing in education, apprenticeships, and workforce development to create a sustainable pipeline of skilled labor.

Local commitment

While Aqua-Aerobic Systems calls the Rockford Region home, the

company has subsidiaries in Switzerland and Germany, as well as representatives in countries such as India, Australia, and the Philippines.

Despite their international reach, Aqua-Aerobic remains committed to its local identity.

“We still manufacture in Rockford and ship to all corners of the globe,” Horton said. “Wherever possible, we work with local vendors and keep our supply chain within a 50-mile radius to support the community.”

The company’s investment in local manufacturing and economic development is supported by the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC), which plays a role in AquaAerobic’s continued success.

“The Chamber has been a wonderful partner for Aqua-Aerobic over the years,” Horton said. “From celebrating our milestones to providing leadership training and supporting our expansion with tax incentives, their involvement has been invaluable.”

With a focus on research and innovation, Aqua-Aerobic Systems isn’t just expanding its business—it’s securing the future of water treatment around the world and strengthening economic growth in the Rockford Region.

For more information about GRCC’s economic development support for members, contact Alex Keedi at akeedi@ rockfordchamber.com.

Helping local companies mitigate tariff risk

About RFD’s Foreign Trade Zone program

By Carrie Zethmayr, FTZ #176 administrator

Tariff-day has arrived, sending waves of uncertainty across the C-suites of global companies. How long can my cash flow absorb the impact of my inventory carrying costs suddenly increasing 10-25%? It’s questions like this that are keeping CEOs and CFOs up at night.

If your company is seeking to mitigate risk to its financial stability from new tariffs on your imported components and inventory, activating your facility as a foreign trade zone (FTZ) could reduce your cash flow risk.

The Greater Rockford Airport Authority offers the Foreign Trade Zone program to companies across Northern Illinois as a tool to defer the customs entry process, reducing the immediate cash-flow impact of tariffs and potentially reducing total tariff costs. Every company has a unique trade flow that must be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, but here are the main ways an FTZ can mitigate the impact of tariffs:

Defer tariff payments to improve cash flow

Activating your facility as an FTZ allows you to import foreign products and hold the inventory in your facility

indefinitely, deferring the payment of import tariffs until your product leaves your facility and enters U.S. customs territory. If your product leaves your facility to be re-exported or transferred to another FTZ or customs bonded facility, then your tariff payment may be eliminated (in the case of re-export outside of USMCA territory) or further deferred (in the case of zone-to-zone transfer).

Eliminate tariff payment on re-exports outside of USMCA territory

If your imported components are re-exported outside the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, then you may be able to eliminate your import tariff completely. This is because your imported product never enters U.S. customs territory—it is destined for export, and your FTZ provides a platform for global commerce outside of U.S. customs territory.

Product that is re-exported to Canada or Mexico needs to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis as to whether the import tariff may be eliminated. (Imported components that are inputs to final products manufactured in the U.S. need to clear through U.S. customs

before being re-exported to Canada and Mexico due to USMCA regulations.) If you are re-exporting to Canada or Mexico, you should consult with a trade attorney to discuss how an FTZ may benefit you. FTZ #176 can help coordinate a feasibility analysis.

Eliminate tariff payment on scrapped material

For scrapped product that never enters U.S. customs territory, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may authorize the product to be destroyed in your FTZ, eliminating the tariff payment completely. The tariff does not apply to product that is sold for scrap value, but specific authorization must be provided by CBP to take advantage of this benefit.

Should you activate as an FTZ

Take a look at your warehouse and estimate the value of your imported components or products. Let’s say it’s worth $1 million, and you’re facing a new 25% tariff. The cash flow impact of the new 25% tariff could be $250,000. Is your company prepared to take that hit to its cash flow? With a $250,000 impact

on cash flow, activating your facility as an FTZ can easily payoff in its first year. With the cost of cash still relatively high and not likely to come down quickly given inflationary pressures, the cash flow benefits of activating as an FTZ will continue to payoff.

How to activate as an FTZ

The FTZ #176 service area encompasses Winnebago, Stephenson, Ogle, Lee, DeKalb, and Boone counties, as well as portions of Bureau, McHenry, Kane, Putnam, and LaSalle counties. If you are located in that service area, we can walk you through the process of activating your facility as an FTZ through the grant of authority of the Greater Rockford Airport Authority. It takes some investment, but it could be worth it in the long run.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Zethmayr is the FTZ #176 administrator for the Greater Rockford Airport Authority. She can be contacted at 312-221-1115 or carrie@zethmayr.com.

Carrie

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Educate voters

Conducting candidate forums is one way to educate voters. A candidate event or forum is excellent for increasing community awareness around an upcoming election. Because we are nonprofit, nonpartisan, and rooted in our local community, we are well positioned to sponsor forums and enhance members’ understanding of the election process and the candidates running.

Educate candidates

Our candidate development program will help identify and prepare future candidates. Successful campaigns need strong campaign strategies, voter contact, communication, budgeting, and fundraising. A campaign can be won or lost because of the quality of the campaign execution and candidate resources.

Advocate for pro-business policies

Competitive, pro-growth policies are essential to the success of the Rockford Region’s economy. The Chamber’s vision is to relentlessly “grow, develop, and support a thriving business community.” The Government Affairs Committee supports that vision by advocating for the regulations, legislation, and public policies essential to attracting and retaining businesses to the Rockford Region.

Focus on local issues

Citizens have a right and privilege to influence how their city and county are governed. Civic engagement is an essential factor in determining the health of the local economy and the well-being of the population. The Government Affairs Committee is focused locally to make a difference in policy decisions and regulations that directly affect our region.

ALIGN WITH GRCC’S OVERALL INITIATIVES

The Governmental Affairs Committee is aligning its vision with the seven initiatives that drive GRCC’s 2025-2029 strategic plan:

1. Strengthen capacity for business retention and expansion to ensure the long-term success of local companies.

2. Coordinate collaborative efforts to attract new businesses to Winnebago County, positioning the region as a prime destination for growth.

3. Establish GRCC as a proactive voice in pro-business advocacy, actively influencing policies and initiatives that benefit members.

4. Develop leadership and workforce through targeted training, best practices, recognition, and networking opportunities.

5. Reinvent GRCC’s communications and publications to become a reliable and confident source of business news and information.

6. Partner with GoRockford and The Workforce Connection to address current and future workforce needs, enhancing the talent pipeline.

7. Design productivity, efficiency, and innovation systems to model profitability and performance excellence.

Civic engagement is a fundamental part of democracy for individuals, organizations, and businesses. When citizens are engaged, they can exchange ideas, invest in finding solutions, and take part in civilized discourse to address the issues facing their communities.

She also serves on the boards of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce and the Illinois Chamber of Commerce. Recently, Jean stepped down after serving eight years on the Winnebago County Board.

GUEST

COLUMNIST

Clean energy matters

The role of the Clean Energy Choice Coalition in

Illinois’ energy future

By Amy Kent, Clean Energy Choice Coalition

As Illinois moves toward a more sustainable future, energy policies will have lasting effects on affordability, reliability, and economic stability.

The Clean Energy Choice Coalition (CECC) is working to ensure that these policies protect consumer choice while promoting practical energy solutions. Through government advocacy and community engagement, the CECC provides lawmakers and the public with strategies that support economic growth and sustainability while maintaining energy diversity.

About the CECC

The CECC is a 501c6 coalition of businesses, advocates, and community leaders committed to preserving energy options for Illinois residents and businesses. They aim to ensure access to a diverse energy mix that includes natural gas, renewable sources, and emerging technologies while preventing restrictive policies that could increase costs and limit access to affordable and reliable energy.

Advocating in Springfield

The CECC advocates for policies that promote energy affordability and reliability for local economies by:

Engaging lawmakers. The CECC collaborates with legislators to present data-driven policies prioritizing consumer choice and economic stability.

Promoting energy diversity. The coalition advocates for a mix of energy solutions, including geothermal, natural gas, and alternative fuels, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Challenging costly mandates. The CECC works to prevent policies that would increase energy costs or impose financial burdens on businesses and families.

Educating the public. Through outreach and educational initiatives, the CECC raises awareness about the effects of energy policies and encourages informed, public participation in policy discussions.

Prioritizing energy diversity

Maintaining a diverse energy portfolio helps stabilize energy costs and ensures reliability. The CECC supports policies that:

disrupting economic stability.

The risks of monopolized energy

The CECC warns that an immediate and forced transition to an electric-only energy source could create significant challenges:

Higher energy costs. Electricity costs per megawatt-hour are significantly higher than natural gas, leading to increased utility bills for consumers.

Strain on infrastructure. Widespread electrification would require extensive grid upgrades, resulting in higher costs for taxpayers and ratepayers.

Economic disruptions. Industries that rely on traditional energy sources could experience job losses and higher operational expenses, affecting local economies.

Shaping Illinois’ energy future

The CECC remains committed to advocating for policies that:

Encourage comprehensive cost analyses. Policymakers should conduct thorough financial assessments before implementing major energy shifts.

Support a balanced energy strategy. Illinois should embrace a mix of renewable energy, natural gas, and emerging technologies rather than relying solely on electrification.

Protect economic growth. Energy policies must support businesses and working families without imposing undue financial strain.

Encouraging public engagement

Informed decision-making and active participation shapes policy. The CECC encourages residents, business owners, and policymakers to:

Stay informed. Keep up with energy policy developments and understand how they affect local communities.

Communicate with legislators. Reach out to elected officials to express concerns about energy affordability and consumer choice.

Participate in public discussions. Attend forums, hearings, and meetings to contribute to the energy policy conversation.

Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce welcomes and encourages member submissions for The VOICE of the Greater Rockford Business Community. Deadline is the 5th of the month preceding publication date. Send news releases and other items of interest to the business community to: The VOICE - Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce 308 W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, IL 61101 For information about advertising contact Customer Service at 815-987-8100. The VOICE of the Greater Rockford Business Community (USPS 784-120). ISSN number 1086-0630, is published monthly by the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce, 308 W. State St., Ste. 350, Rockford, Illinois 61101. Periodicals postage paid at Rockford, Ill. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The VOICE of the Greater Rockford Business Community, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, IL 61101.

Keep energy affordable. Natural gas remains a lower-cost alternative to electricity, providing financial stability for households and businesses.

Enhance reliability. A diversified energy mix reduces dependence on a single source, making energy systems more resilient to demand fluctuations and extreme weather events.

Encourage innovation. Supporting multiple clean energy pathways allows Illinois to transition responsibly without

Illinois’ energy future is being decided now, and engagement from residents and businesses will play a crucial role in ensuring that policies reflect both environmental goals and economic realities. For more information about the CECC’s advocacy efforts and how to get involved, visit ourcleanenergychoice.com

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Jean Crosby is the president and managing partner of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Crosby Starck Real Estate.

GUEST COLUMNIST

Engaging with your state government

Tips on how to be proactive and stay informed

By Andrew Chesney, Illinois State Senator, 45th District

Bills filed in the Illinois Senate and House of Representatives shape the future of our state. That’s why it’s more important than ever for residents to stay engaged and informed about the issues that matter most. Here are several ways you can be proactive in staying informed and ensuring your voice is heard in Springfield:

Get to know your legislators

Every Illinois resident is represented by both a State Senator and a State Representative. To easily find out who represents you, the Illinois Policy Institute has a user-friendly “Find Your Legislator” tool (available at ilinoispolicy.org/maps). This interactive tool uses your street address to identify your elected officials at both the state and national levels.

Bookmark your legislators’ websites

Each Illinois legislator maintains their own legislative website, which is a valuable resource. On these sites, you can learn about their background, interests, and reasons for seeking office. You can also access a list of the bills they sponsor or co-sponsor, check their committee memberships, and find information about upcoming community events in your area. These sites also provide links for subscribing to newsletters and contact forms for submitting feedback on bills.

Follow legislators on social media

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X offer a less formal, more personal glimpse into the daily work of your legislators. By following their accounts, you can stay updated on events they attend, initiatives they’re working on, and how they are advocating for their constituents both inside and outside the legislature.

Become familiar with ilga.gov

The ilga.gov website is a one-stop shop for tracking legislative activity. It provides access to contact information for all Illinois legislators, session calendars, committee schedules, and

bill tracking. If you want to follow a specific bill’s progress or learn more about the legislative process, ilga.gov is an invaluable resource.

Watch committee hearings and floor action

You can also stay engaged by watching committee hearings and floor action in real-time. If a bill you care about is scheduled for a hearing, you can listen to committee testimony and see how members vote. Similarly, when a bill reaches the floor of the Senate or House, audio and video links are available for you to watch the live session. This transparency helps you stay informed on key legislative developments.

File witness slips to express your opinion

A powerful tool for engaging with the legislative process is filing witness slips when a bill is scheduled for a committee hearing. Witness slips allow you to express support or opposition to a bill, and they are read into the record during committee hearings. The number of witness slips filed is taken seriously by legislators, so it’s important to take advantage of this opportunity. I’ve provided a video tutorial on my website (SenatorChesney.com) at the bottom of the homepage under “Quick Links,” to guide you through the process.

The democratic process is most effective when citizens actively participate. As the 2025 legislative session progresses, it’s crucial to track key bills, share your opinions, and engage with your elected officials. By staying informed and involved, you ensure that your voice is heard and that your concerns are included in policy discussions.

Your engagement is vital in shaping the future of Illinois. Make your voice count, stay proactive, and hold your legislators accountable for the decisions they make on your behalf.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Andrew S. Chesney is an Illinois State Senator representing the 45th district. The 45th district includes all of Jo Daviess, Stephenson and Carroll counties as well as part of Ogle, Winnebago, Boone, and DeKalb counties.

How corporate taxes affect local economies

What it means for local businesses, workers, and their families

By Watson M. McLeish, senior vice president, Tax Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce; and Curtis Dubay, chief economist, U.S Chamber of Commerce

A competitive corporate tax rate is crucial for fostering economic growth and attracting investment. When businesses face lower tax burdens, they have more capital to invest in operations, innovation, and expansion, leading to job creation and increased productivity.

Higher tax rates have the opposite effect on business growth and innovation. As such, proposals to raise the corporate tax rate not only jeopardize America’s global economic competitiveness but also deal a blow to American workers and families in the form of lower wages and higher prices.

The data show that even raising the corporate tax rate by a single percentage point would have negative implications for workers and communities across the nation.

Restoring America’s economic competitiveness

In December 2017, Congress passed the landmark Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), the most comprehensive tax reform legislation enacted since 1986. The TCJA reduced and simplified the federal tax burden on American families and workers, and it substantially modernized America’s approach to taxing business income.

Before the law’s enactment, the U.S. had earned the dubious distinction of being home to the highest statutory corporate tax rate in the industrialized world, which harmed our economy and pushed investment and jobs overseas.

To help restore the global competitiveness of American companies and attract foreign investment to the U.S., the TCJA permanently lowered the corporate tax rate by 14 percentage points, from 35% to 21%. In conjunction with the TCJA’s other pro-growth reforms, reducing the corporate income tax significantly boosted domestic investment, studies now confirm, while increasing economic growth and workers’ wages.

Understanding the economic impacts of higher corporate taxes

Even with the TCJA’s historic reforms, however, U.S. corporations remain subject to an average combined federal-state statutory tax rate of 25.63%—higher than the current Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) average rate of 23.85%.

It is, therefore, critical for policymakers to understand that any proposal to raise the current corporate tax rate would put U.S.-based companies at a further disadvantage relative to their foreignbased competitors and increase the relative cost of business investment in America. But the harm wouldn’t stop there. Studies have shown that raising the corporate income tax would not only reduce economic output and wage growth but also increase consumer prices.

It is for these reasons that public- and private-sector economists alike have consistently characterized raising the corporate income tax as one of the most detrimental and inefficient ways to fund government priorities.

Breaking down the local impact

Recently, some policymakers have expressed support for raising the corporate income tax to offset the cost of other priorities, with some proposing to raise the corporate statutory rate by one or two percentage points—from 21% to 22% or 23%. This has led many to question, are we still under Trump tax policy? Others have contemplated doing this indirectly, by disallowing the deduction for state and local corporate income tax payments (C-SALT proposal). If Congress were to preserve the current 21% statutory corporate tax rate but adopt the C-SALT proposal, the average U.S. corporation would face an effective corporate tax increase of 1.23%.

The damage either change would do to America’s global competitiveness is clear: With an average combined federal–state corporate tax rate of approximately 27%, the U.S. would become the tenth highest-taxed country in the OECD— ceding our competitive advantage over the Netherlands, France, Canada, and South Korea.

But what would this change mean for local businesses, workers, and their families?

Raising the corporate tax rate by just one percentage point would increase federal tax revenue by an estimated $136 billion over the next decade. But where would that $136 billion come from?

Businesses have only three options to pay for higher taxes: raise prices, reduce costs, or lower returns to investors. In reality, they do all three. Recent economic research shows that just over half the cost of higher corporate taxes is borne by consumers in the form of higher prices, with another 28% borne by workers in the form of lower wages, and the remaining 20% borne by shareholders (which includes retirement accounts) in the form of lower returns.

The effects of raising the corporate tax rate to 22% in Illinois over 10 years

$1,532,904,855 in lost wages for workers.

$2,846,823,302 in higher prices for consumers.

$1,094,932,039 in lower returns to shareholders.

Illinois’s total 10-year cost of raising the corporate tax rate to 22%

$5,474,660,196

Find this and related articles at www. uschamber.com/taxes. It is reprinted here with permission from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

U.S. CHAMBER POLL: AMERICAN VOTERS WANT PERMANENT TAX RELIEF

A strong majority of American voters support making the tax reforms passed in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) permanent, a new U.S. Chamber survey finds.

By the numbers:

• 64% of likely voters favor permanently extending the TCJA, 20% oppose it, and 16% have no opinion.

• 81% of Republicans, 56% of Independents, and 55% of Democrats back the 2017 tax law.

65% of voters say they are more likely to support a candidate who votes for lasting tax relief, compared with just 20% who would be less likely to do so.

Yes, and: According to the new poll, about 8-in-10 voters believe the best way to balance the budget is by cutting wasteful spending and promoting pro-growth policies—not increasing taxes.

Why it matters: Millions of Americans will feel the brunt of the largest tax increase in American history if most of the pro-growth reforms in the TCJA expire at the end of this year. Unless Congress acts, we will see lower wages for workers, higher prices for families, and reduced economic growth.

What we’re doing: The U.S. Chamber is engaging with policymakers on how making tax reforms permanent will create new opportunities for American workers and businesses. Look for roundtables in your community with elected officials where local businesses will make their voices heard.

Bottom line: Together, we can make sure American workers and local businesses have the pro-growth tax policies they need to stay competitive and support their communities.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Methodology

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce calculated the amounts by which raising the federal corporate income tax rate by 1 percentage point would result in higher prices for consumers, lower wages for workers, and lower returns to shareholders in every state and congressional district. We did so by first determining the amount of such a tax increase over 10 years, using the Congressional Budget Office’s estimate that a 1% increase in the corporate tax rate raises $135.7 billion over 10 years. We then allocated 52% of this amount to consumers, 28% to workers, and 20% to shareholders. These percentages derive from the latest economic research on the incidence of corporate taxes on consumers, workers, and capital. See Scott R. Baker et al., Corporate Taxes and Retail Prices (Nat’l Bureau of Econ. Rsch., Working Paper No. 27058, 2023).

Finally, we apportioned those amounts to each state and congressional district based on the percentages of goods and services consumed, wages earned, and shareholder returns received by residents of each state and district.

According to OECD data, the current U.S. federal statutory corporate income tax rate less deductions for state and local corporate income taxes is estimated to be 19.77% and the average combined state and local statutory corporate income tax rate is estimated to be 5.86%, which produces a combined federal–state statutory corporate income tax rate of 25.63%. OECD, Corporate Income Tax Statutory and Targeted Small Business Rates (updated Sept. 2024). If Congress were to adopt the C-SALT proposal, the average effective corporate income tax increase on U.S. companies (1.23%) would equal the product of the average state/local corporate income tax rate (5.86%) and the federal corporate income tax rate (21%).

Watson McLeish is senior vice president for Tax Policy at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, where he serves as the primary adviser on all tax policy-related matters. This includes the development of tax policy positions, advocacy on tax issues, and coordination of efforts to influence tax legislation and regulations.

Curtis Dubay, chief economist in the Economic Policy Division at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, tracks the condition of the economy, analyzes the impact of public policy on economic growth, and runs the Chamber’s Chief Economists Committee, which helps the Chamber formulate economic policies and provides analysis to policymakers in Washington, D.C.

Civics in America

New study finds nation’s civic knowledge lagging

By U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation

A comprehensive new study from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation reveals an alarming truth just three years shy of America’s 250th anniversary— the nation’s civic knowledge is badly lagging. The national survey, which examined responses from 2,000 registered voters, also shows that while Americans lack basic understanding of government, trust in business remains strong.

The survey finds more than 70% of Americans fail a basic civic literacy quiz on topics like the three branches of government, the number of Supreme Court justices, and other basic functions of our democracy. Just half were able to correctly name the branch of government where bills become laws.

While two thirds of Americans say they studied civics in high school, just 25% say they are “very confident” they could explain how our system of government works.

“As we approach our semiquincentennial in 2026, this report amounts to a five-alarm fire drill for the civic health of the nation,” said Hilary Crow, head of the U.S. Chamber Foundation’s The Civic Trust®. “While Americans across backgrounds value civic participation in theory, we are sorely lacking in the basic knowledge that translates values into informed, engaged citizenship.”

Among the major red flags

• Only 46% of respondents believe the U.S. is performing well on the vital need to understand our system of government—a gap of 49 percentage points from the 95% who call it important for the nation’s success.

• One in three did not know there are three branches of government.

• More than half did not know the number of members in the House of Representatives.

“Put plainly, you can’t fix what you don’t understand,” Crow said. “Without reversing these deficiencies in understanding how our government works, we are risking the long-term health of our civic culture and democracy itself. That’s why we’re so committed to the National Civics Bee® and other civics literacy programs.”

Workplaces seen as spaces of unity and civility

The study also highlights deep wells of unity around core civic values and an openness to businesses playing a role in supporting citizenship.

More than 75% of adults in the U.S. view political division in the country and

Key Findings

government as a major problem. Yet just 19% see significant political tensions at their jobs.

Nearly half of respondents said workplaces should take the primary role in defusing divide, over government bodies.

“As the bonds holding our civic culture together fray, places of work stand out as sanctuaries where Americans still connect across differences,” Crow said.

“The data speak clearly – people welcome employers’ help in ensuring politics don’t infect these essential spaces.”

Specifically, the survey reveals:

• More than 80% of respondents hold positive views of large and small businesses alike.

• 82% agree businesses can play an “important role” in bringing people together.

• 93% would react positively if companies publicly tried “improving our country.”

As trusted institutions, there’s an opportunity for business leaders to drive significant impact in elevating civics as a national priority—for the current workforce and for the next generation. Only 38% of Americans believe children today are prepared to fulfill their roles as informed, active citizens. Business leaders must partner with educators in steering a new generation toward constructive civic participation.

“With our social fabric strained, the business community is being called upon to be a thread that can knit us back together,” Crow concluded.

About the survey

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation commissioned 3W Insights, a research-driven strategic consultancy, to measure attitudes related to civics ahead of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. The nationwide survey included a representative sample of 2,000 registered voters, fielded Oct. 25 – Nov. 1, 2023.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce. GRCC is a member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and not a subsidiary of the national organization.

This and other related articles can be found at www.uschamberfoundation.org/ civics. It is reprinted here with permission from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

70% of Americans fail a basic civic literacy quiz.

• 62% are optimistic about solving problems while many believe political division is a major problem and we’re on the wrong track.

• 82% believe American businesses can play an important role in helping bring people together.

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Northern Illinois Council of Governments

Working together to advocate for our region

By Michael Dunn, Region 1 Planning Council

The Rockford region is a wonderful place to live, grow a family, and start a business. But it can be tough for our area to stand out as a critical economy to state and federal governments when we live in the shadow of larger markets such as Chicago, Milwaukee and Madison.

Building a thriving business community requires a coordinated effort among governing bodies, aka council of governments (COG), to make DC, Springfield, and prospective business sit up and take notice.

A council of governments is a voluntary association of local governments designed to promote intergovernmental cooperation among its members to plan and solve problems on a multijurisdictional basis. A COG is not a government, and it does not have the authority to levy taxes, pass ordinances, or regulate local governments.

When the pandemic hit, almost every metro area in Illinois already had a council of government established, working with local elected mayors and the Illinois Municipal League. However, northern Illinois municipalities west of McHenry had very little coordination among mayors on how to best advocate for the region.

Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara, along with Mayor Morris of Belvidere and Mayor Jury of Loves Park, led the formation of the Northern Illinois Council of Governments (NorthCOG) as a new program of Region 1 Planning Council and invited elected leaders across the region to participate.

NorthCOG is an organization through which individual counties, municipalities, and other local governmental bodies can coordinate their efforts, allowing them to:

• Discuss and resolve regional issues of mutual concern.

• Jointly introduce, support, or oppose state and federal legislation where it is deemed in the best interest of the region.

• Develop and advocate for shared state and federal legislative priorities.

• Establish multi-jurisdictional partnerships, procurements, and joint ventures to modernize and reduce the cost of local government operations and services.

• Study, report, and make recommendations on innovative, proactive solutions to regional issues and best practices in good governance.

• Foster dialogue on best practices and share the efficiencies of shared priorities, resources, knowledge, challenges, and opportunities.

• Advocate for policy set by the Region 1 Planning Council governing board.

• Engage in statewide policy and advocacy to make sure we “punch above our weight” to secure state and federal resources for our region.

NorthCOG membership comprises Boone County, Winnebago County, City of Belvidere, City of Loves Park, City of Rockford, City of South Beloit, Village of Machesney Park, Village of Roscoe, Village of Winnebago, Village of Cherry Valley, City of Oregon, Region 1 Planning Council, Rockford Park District, Rockford Public Schools, Belvidere Community Unit School District 100, Four Rivers Sanitation Authority, City of Freeport, Village of Rockton, and Chicago-Rockford International Airport.

Representing 650,000 residents, NorthCOG is a bipartisan, rural/urban effort recognized by state and federal leadership as a model of how to organize a region with one-voice.

Region 1 Planning Council (R1) is a nonprofit government organization providing powerful data, grant, and planning services for northern Illinois. Visit www.r1planning.org to learn more.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

FEATURED COLUMNIST

More than a good meal

How our local eateries enhance the Rockford experience

By John Groh, GoRockford

Our favorite restaurants, bars, cafés, and bakeries don’t just serve good food— they help define a community’s identity. They reflect the energy, creativity and diversity of a place, shaping the way both locals and visitors experience it.

In the Rockford region, dedicated entrepreneurs and talented chefs keep pushing our culinary scene forward— serving something exciting at every price point and in a range of cuisines.

At GoRockford, we understand the challenges restaurants face, particularly in the slower months of the year. That’s why, since 2021, we’ve championed Rockford Restaurant Week to help drive business during the industry’s most challenging time. And it’s working. Based on post-event surveys, the majority of the 65 participating restaurants reported increased sales, with some seeing gains of more than 35%. That’s not just a boost for business owners—it’s a win for our entire community.

Restaurants are a major driver of our local economy and a vital source of jobs. The restaurant industry is the secondlargest private sector employer in Illinois and the nation. In 2024, it provided more than 12,600 jobs in the Rockford region.

“This city has really raised the bar for dining/drinking out,” Paul Sletten, founder and owner of Abreo and two other downtown Rockford restaurants, said in a Facebook post about Restaurant Week. “Twenty years ago, when we opened, I’m pretty sure elevated dining in Rockford was still a bacon-wrapped filet and frozen lobster tail.”

Nearly 30 eating and drinking establishments have opened in Winnebago County since early 2024, including Filipino, Hawaiian and Laotian options.

Five of the seven winners in this year’s Rockford Restaurant Week awards are new since 2020: 8th Ward Pub, Hidden Creek Estates, 27 Aluna, Sticky Rice Bites, and Plume. Three of these places opened in 2024. This isn’t just a trend—it’s a sign of real momentum. Local restaurants, are shaping a culinary scene that continues to grow in both quality and variety.

The evolution of Rockford’s culinary scene shows in the depth of what

Restaurant Week award winners offered. Best Experience, the top prize, went to Plume, a less-than-year-old restaurant in the city’s North End where the food is Italian. With a menu that’s regionally specific to northern Italy, Plume offers cuisine that goes beyond what’s often thought of as Italian food.

In addition to the benefits of Restaurant Week, GoRockford continues to address the lingering financial challenges restaurants face due to statemandated closures during the COVID pandemic. To bring relief to restaurants hard hit by skyrocketing unemployment insurance taxes, we are in the third round of helping administer state grants. The value of restaurants to our economy—and our workforce—is huge. According to the National Restaurant Association, three of every five adults in the U.S., me included, have worked in the restaurant industry. Our nation’s commercial kitchens, counters, and dining rooms are an important training ground in customer service, problem solving, teamwork, and time management.

Looking ahead, I see even more opportunity for growth in 2025. As hundreds of new housing units come online in downtown Rockford and along the South Main corridor, existing restaurants will gain access to a larger customer base.

I challenge you to support our local restaurants. Seek out new places, revisit old favorites, and share your experiences. When you find something great, post about it, tell your friends, and help amplify the success of these hardworking business owners.

Great food has a way of bringing people together. And in Rockford, our restaurants are doing just that, one meal at a time.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Michael Dunn Jr. is the executive director of Region 1 Planning Council, a multi-jurisdictional entity that focuses on transportation, infrastructure, economic development, housing, and community health on behalf of local government.

As president/CEO of GoRockford, John Groh works to make the Rockford area a thriving, multi-dimensional region that is recognized, respected and modeled. His appreciation for hospitality runs deep—thanks his experience waiting tables in college, where he mastered the art of balancing trays, handling difficult customers with a smile, and perfecting the “I’ll check on that for you” exit.

Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce Q1 Business Sentiment Survey results

Area businesses cautiously optimistic about the region’s economic future

By Christine Hand, managing editor

The results of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) Q1 2025 Business Sentiment Survey paint a picture of cautious optimism among businesses in the Rockford Region. Despite some concerns about the broader economic environment, most businesses report good health, comfortable cash flow, and plans for stability or growth in both investment and staffing.

The survey also highlights the ongoing challenges local businesses face, including regulatory burdens and a skilled workforce. However, the generally positive outlook on future revenue and staffing suggests that respondents are confident the local business community will find ways to navigate these challenges effectively.

About the survey

The Q1 survey was conducted Jan. 30-Feb. 14. Respondents were members of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce and other business leaders in the Rockford Region.

GRCC will conduct the same survey every quarter to monitor and contrast results. The more people who spare the 10 minutes to take the quarterly surveys, the more valid and useful the results are. The Q2 survey is scheduled to begin in June, so keep your eyes peeled for that email.

SUMMARY OF KEY FINDINGS

Overall business health

The survey reveals a generally positive sentiment among businesses regarding their overall health. A significant majority of respondents (67.7%) rated their business health as either very good or somewhat good.

When evaluating each quarter’s survey results, it’s helpful to keep in mind some of the economic, political, and social factors at play around the time of the survey. Here are some of the hot topics from Q1:

• Trump inaugurated January 20, followed by whirlwind activity in Washington DC.

• Stellantis announced return of Belvidere plant.

• Gunnite closure announced.

• Rockford recognized as a top housing market.

• Egg prices continued to spiral out of control.

• Multiple new employment policies and mandates from the State of Illinois went into effect Jan. 1.

• Los Angeles fires dominated the news.

• On again/off again Tik Tok ban.

• The threat of AI (or promise, depending on your perspective) continued to grow.

Economic perceptions

• Roughly two-thirds of respondents believe the U.S. economy is about average or somewhat good.

• More than 40% of respondents feel the regional economy is above average.

Factors influencing business health

Respondents ranked revenue growth, customer retention, and workforce stability as the strongest perceived indicators of business health, with revenue growth as the most significant.

Infrastructure support

More than 55% of respondents think the region’s infrastructure in supporting business operations is above average.

Workforce changes

Nearly nine out of 10 respondents have increased or retained their number of staff in the past year.

Future workforce plans

Nearly 45% of respondents plan to increase staff in the next year, compared to only 35% reporting increased staff in the previous year.

Cash flow comfort

Nearly three-quarters of respondents are comfortable with their current cash flow.

Investment plans

Roughly 90% of respondents plan to invest at least the same or more in their business in the year ahead.

Revenue expectations

• Respondents identified entering new markets and enhancing marketing efforts as the biggest opportunities for revenue growth in the year ahead.

• Nearly 90% anticipate revenue growth will increase or remain the same in the year ahead.

Factors influencing staffing decisions

• The two primary factors influencing staffing decisions in the year ahead are the demand for products/services and the availability of a qualified workforce.

• The main challenge identified by respondents in attracting or retaining employees is the lack of a skilled workforce.

Barriers to growth

Respondents identified the availability of a skilled workforce as the top barrier to business growth, with market competition and cash flow a distant second and third.

Regulatory burden

• More than 90% of respondents believe their regulatory burden has stayed the same or increased compared to six months ago.

• Taxes, fees, and increased employment regulations topped the list of government policies or regulations negatively affecting local businesses.

Business continuity planning

Over 55% of respondents do not have an up-to-date exit/divestiture plan in place.

Now what?

GRCC is committed to being a member-driven organization. That means our program topics, professional development offerings, and government advocacy strategies are based on these survey results and other member feedback (formal and informal). We use this information to determine what local businesses need and how effective we are at delivering on those priorities. That’s why your participation with these quarterly surveys is so critical. You get out of the Chamber what you put into it.

Conclusion

As the Rockford Region’s business landscape continues to evolve, GRCC’s Quarterly Business Sentiment Surveys will continue to provide timely and valuable insights for policymakers, business leaders and economic development organizations. The results of future surveys will be released in conjunction with U.S. Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Business Sentiment Survey results to give a more complete local and national snapshot.

Special thanks to Region 1 Planning Council for administering the survey and preparing

A one-on-one business sentiment survey

Straight talk from Meiborg Inc. about doing business in Rockford

By Christine Hand, managing editor

Meiborg Brothers was founded in 1981 by Bill Meiborg as a family business with 10 trucks shuttling US Postal Service freight between Rockford and Chicago. Today, Meiborg Inc. is a multifaceted enterprise with three Rockford-based companies—Meiborg, Inc., Meiborg Warehousing, and Meiborg Enterprises—encompassing assetbased trucking, warehousing, real estate investment, truckload brokerage, and full-service tractor trailer and equipment repairs.

Led by second-generation owner and CEO Zach Meiborg, the company continues to expand despite economic fluctuations, regulatory and workforce challenges, and the erratic nature of the trucking industry.

Strategic growth and diversification

After graduating college with a bachelor’s degree in business economics, Meiborg joined the family business full time. He started at the bottom and worked his way up, experiencing nearly every facet of the business.

Since taking the helm, he has played a crucial role in the company’s impressive growth. Understanding the volatility of the trucking industry, Meiborg has strategically diversified his company’s services. “We’ve focused our growth outside of just trucking into warehousing, truckload brokerage, truck repair, and even acquiring real estate for warehousing,” he said.

He oversaw the acquisition of Silver Arrow Express in 2012, which allowed the company to diversify into hazmat tanker-endorsed trucking. More recently, Meiborg Inc. acquired Midwest Express, an expedited line haul trucking service in Lenexa, Kansas, as well as a new warehouse in Rochelle that will soon become food-grade certified.

“Zach has done an outstanding job of growing the company through customer relations and acquisitions,” said James Cooper, Meiborg COO. “Under his leadership, the company has doubled in size twice since 2015.”

Today, Meiborg Inc. has 200 over-theroad trucks, 700 trailers, two million feet of warehousing space, and it employs

350 people at eight facilities in Rockford and Houston.

Navigating government regulations

Meiborg is outspoken about the challenges posed by government regulations, particularly Illinois’ complex workers’ compensation and unemployment laws, which he believes disincentivize productivity.

“I’m here to make some money and create some jobs by being productive. Nothing the state does is going to make me more productive,” he said. “I just want to compete, and I want to be good at what I do. And more restrictions and regulations only get in the way of that.”

Despite his frustrations with the state, Meiborg acknowledges that local municipalities work hard to create a business-friendly environment by taking a more hands-off approach that allows businesses like his to operate with minimal interference.

“I thought Rockford was a poor place to do business until I spent two and a half years in Houston. Then I realized Rockford is actually a pretty great place to do business,” he said.

Workforce obstacles and opportunities

A passionate advocate for young people entering the trucking industry, Meiborg Inc. is one of only 104 companies nationwide granted an exemption by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to allow 18- to 21-year-olds to drive across state lines.

“If people want to graduate high school and don’t want to go to college but want to make $80,000 a year driving a truck, they can do that with us,” he said. His own son, Luke Meiborg, is a participant in the program and has already driven cross-country.

But Meiborg admits he’s frustrated with the lack of engagement and enthusiasm he sees in the workforce in general. “We need to find a way to raise the level of consciousness of our workers. I don’t need people that just show up and check a box. I need good people who are willing and able to work,” he

said. “If we want to stay competitive as a region, we need engaged employees who are excited about having their brains turned on. Employers want workers who understand the objective and buy into it.”

To attract and retain the best workers, Meiborg Inc. is committed to employee well-being. The company provides unique benefits such as an on-site gym and free chiropractic care through a partnership with Hulsebus Chiropractic. They also offer free daycare services during school breaks to support employees with families.

Here to grow

Meiborg Inc. remains deeply invested in Rockford’s economic success. “We love Rockford, and we want more people to understand who we are and what we do,” Cooper said. “We’re serious about providing careers here and helping grow the local economy.”

To that end, Meiborg is eager to

build more local partnerships, especially with food companies and businesses with operations at or near the ChicagoRockford International airport. “I’d love to do more business with local companies like Berner Foods, Lowe’s, and Maersk,” he said.

Meiborg and Cooper agree that Rockford offers a number of advantages for their growing business. The region’s lower-cost real estate makes the company’s warehouse business more competitive. And Rockford’s strategic location and strong transportation infrastructure make it an ideal hub for logistics, warehousing, and trucking operations.

Importantly, the high level of engagement from pro-business organizations such as the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce make it easier to do business here. That, in turn, helps promote economic growth and strengthens the presence of key industries.

“Having that industry and having the distribution is what drives a lot of jobs, which then drives prosperity for the people. It generates tax dollars. And it generates wealth that can be used to buy things and raise the standard of living for everyone in the Rockford Region,” Meiborg said.

The views expressed in this article are those of Meiborg and Cooper and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

New player with a familiar face

What UMB’s acquisition of Illinois Bank & Trust means for employees, customers, and the community

By Christine Hand, managing editor

Banking has become a consolidationdriven industry. After a slowdown during the COVID-19 pandemic, bank mergers and acquisitions are on the rise. According to Harvard Law School Forum on Corporate Governance, U.S. bank deals with an aggregate value of $16.3 billion were announced in 2024, surpassing transaction volumes for 2023 and 2022 combined.

Many banks are pursuing mergers to achieve economies of scale and improve competitiveness in the evolving financial services industry. This trend is driven by the rising costs of regulation compliance, technology upgrades, digital banking services, and fraud prevention. Banks must continually invest in leading-edge technology to remain competitive and safeguard against cyber risks, which can be a significant financial strain for smaller institutions.

Community banks in particular are navigating a complex landscape of economic recovery, regulatory uncertainty, and competitive pressures by leveraging mergers and acquisitions as a strategy for growth and modernization. In this environment, UMB’s recent acquisition of Heartland Financial

(HTLF), parent company of Illinois Bank & Trust, represents a growing trend in the world of finance.

According to Tom Budd, president of commercial banking-Illinois at Illinois Bank & Trust, a division of UMB Bank, n.a., the acquisition benefits both UMB and HTLF. “For UMB, it gives them a strategic entry into new markets. While for [Illinois Bank & Trust], it gives us near overnight access to product offerings and technology that were beyond our immediate grasp.”

Succession planning is another driving factor, as generational changes and the need for scale often lead to consolidation as a viable solution.

UMB, with its robust financial standing and multi-generational leadership, is committed to supporting the Rockford market. Mariner Kemper, the CEO of UMB and a fourth-generation leader, exemplifies the financial institution’s long-term vision and dedication to its core values.

“While we have maintained an outstanding pace of organic growth during the past decade, this compelling combination with HTLF marks a truly momentous expansion of all our core

services in both existing and new markets. This synergy, along with a likeminded culture and customer approach, is an ideal fit for our business model, our credit and risk profiles, and our associates, customers and communities,” Kemper said in a prepared statement.

“This merger makes us one of the largest regional banks in the country but with the culture of a family-run institution,” Budd said.

He’s quick to point out that customers and the community will continue to deal with the same banking staff at their local branch.

“The same team is representing the bank to the market, but now we’ve got new capabilities and resources to make a big impact on the community,” he said.

These new products address the need for scale and expertise that many banks in smaller markets may lack, including secondary market mortgages and portfolio mortgages, expanded wealth management and investment offerings, and health savings accounts (HSAs).

“UMB is one of the top 10 administrators of HSA accounts in the country, providing our commercial customers with a valuable employee benefit package option,” Budd said.

UMB recognizes the importance of partnering with economic development organizations like the Chamber to foster a thriving business community. By collaborating with these entities, banks

can help grow the business population, create jobs, and drive economic prosperity.

“We want to partner with local economic development organizations to help grow the market, because the bank can only be as successful as the market we operate in,” Budd said. “As a bank, we see a lot of different industries and businesses. We want to help those business owners succeed by connecting them with experts and sharing best practices.”

While some may worry about the impact of out-of-town ownership on a bank’s local appeal, Budd says UMB is committed to maintaining a strong community presence in the Rockford area.

“What Rockford will see in UMB is a bank that’s going to be very supportive and committed to the Rockford market,” Budd said.

UMB encourages its associates to volunteer their time and talent to local nonprofits, and it provides paid volunteer time off to encourage hands-on engagement. Additionally, UMB offers a company match program for employee donations. It also supports initiatives such as down payment assistance programs for first-time homebuyers.

“I think the Rockford community is going to be very pleased when they realize what UMB is going to bring to this market,” Budd said.

GUEST COLUMNIST

Made for Rockford

Shaping our region’s story in a new way

By Whitney Martin, GoRockford

Even the best workplace culture isn’t enough to keep a loyal employee if they don’t feel at home. What happens from 5-9 p.m. can be more impactful than their 9-5. That little dash in between? That’s where Made for Rockford comes in.

If you’re new to the program, let me introduce myself… I’m Whitney Martin, director of this communitywide initiative. After years of reporting the news as a broadcast journalist, I transitioned to this role with GoRockford to help shape our region’s story in a new way. Made for Rockford is an aggressive, multi-platform approach to talent recruitment and retention. From targeted digital ads and billboards to community partnerships and welcome events, we’re not just bringing people here, we’re giving them reasons to stay.

Some of our success can be measured through data, but the real impact goes beyond a spreadsheet. It’s about connections. You’ll see that in our tailored citywide tours for job applicants and at our new resident mixers.

Our quarterly events at local restaurants and attractions are more than just a night out; they create opportunities for engagement. For some, it’s their first time stepping out since moving here. It’s where phone numbers are exchanged, friendships begin, and new residents get a firsthand look at what Rockford has to offer. Hearing about Friday’s Downtown City Market or Food Truck Tuesdays along the bike path is one thing, having someone to experience it with makes all the difference.

The program also places a strong focus on Boomerangers—those who’ve moved away but are considering a return to the area, often to be closer to family. You may have seen billboards at high-traffic intersections during the holidays, welcoming visitors back with a simple message: “Unpack for the last time.” That tearful goodbye at the end of a visit doesn’t have to be inevitable.

This campaign was paired with a digital approach, using nostalgia-driven ads as a heartfelt reminder that no matter how far you’ve gone, Rockford is still home. The opportunities are here; let’s fill them with home grown talent.

Talent attraction is only a piece of the puzzle. Employee retention takes a village. Through partnerships with the City of Rockford, Woodward, OSF Saint Anthony Hospital, UW Hospital, and Mercy Health, we’re putting Rockford on the map as a place where professionals can build a career and a life. With the cost of living nearly 25% below the national average, short commutes, and a strong sense of community, we offer a balance that’s hard to find. It’s no surprise Realtor.com recently named us the Hottest Housing Market in the country. Homes are selling fast—not because people end up here, they’re choosing Rockford.

Those partnerships extend beyond our major employers. We’ve also teamed up with The Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) on several new initiatives to align with business growth in Winnebago County. Together, we launched a new community guide packed

with key resources for new residents and featuring the Made for Rockford Go Team, a network of local ambassadors ready to be a welcoming first friend. Think of it like a match-making service for new neighbors.

This kind of collaboration with the Chamber is vital. A thriving workforce and a thriving business community go hand in hand. One can’t exist without the other. When businesses have access to a strong, engaged workforce, they can innovate, expand, and invest back into the community. Likewise, when employees feel supported with career opportunities, affordable living, and a high quality of life, they’re more likely to stay, contribute, and fuel local economic growth.

At the heart of it all, connection is key. It’s important to consider why an employee might choose to leave the area. Rockford has so much to offer, but people need to experience it to truly feel at home, and that’s where employers can make a difference. Incorporate our Go Guide, filled with local events, into your internal newsletters. Connect with our Go Team to help employees build relationships. Share our mixer flyers with your staff. Small actions can have a big impact. Often, it’s not just about the job, it’s about the life they’re missing after 5 p.m.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Whitney Martin leads the Made for Rockford program, attracting talent to Winnebago County. As a former Emmy nominated journalist, she’s earned multiple awards, including “Best Reporter.” She’s a GRCC 40 Under 40 leader and serves on the Workforce Connection Board, Greg Lindmark Foundation, Leadership Rockford, and, most recently, the fundraising committee for Family Counseling Services.

GUEST COLUMNIST

Universal newborn home visiting

An investment for community growth

By Emily Klonicki, Alignment Rockford

Winnebago County recently received an award of $300,000 from the Illinois Department of Public Health to fund a Universal Newborn Support System (UNSS), a maternal and neonatal public health program. As administrator of these newly awarded funds, the Winnebago County Health Department has selected Alignment Rockford as a strategic partner for the UNSS program.

In addition to free newborn home visits from a trained neonatal nurse for every baby born in Winnebago County, the program includes doula workforce development and mental health support.

Investing in early childhood isn’t just a social good—it’s a proven economic strategy that yields long-term financial benefits by laying the ground work for healthy families and a prepared workforce at the earliest stages of life. This approach generates $3 to $9 in savings for every $1 spent by preventing future healthcare, child welfare, and education costs.

If we estimate a conservative 65% of the total birthing population of the county (around 2,100 newborns) who might take advantage of this home visiting services through the UNSS program, we arrive at a total annual program cost of $1.2 million annually. Using the rationale above, the expected savings based on national early intervention data will be significant. At the low-end estimate (3:1 savings per dollar invested), the county would see $3.6 million in avoided costs annually, a net savings of $2.4 million per year after program expenses. At the high-end estimate (9:1 savings per dollar invested), savings could reach $10.8 million per year. These savings take into account reductions in various costs, including:

Reduced healthcare costs

• Fewer emergency room visits and hospital readmissions for newborns and mothers. Improved maternal mental health, lowering the long-term costs of untreated postpartum depression.

• Better newborn health outcomes, reduction in NICU admissions and preventable complications.

Lower special ed and developmental support costs

• Early screening and intervention help identify developmental delays

sooner, leading to timely, lower-cost interventions.

• Studies show that children who receive early interventions require fewer special education services later, a savings of $30,000–$100,000 per child over time.

Child welfare and foster care prevention

• Home visiting programs reduce instances of child abuse and neglect, leading to lower foster care placements and social services involvement.

• Studies estimate that home visiting can reduce maltreatment-related costs by 50%.

Improved school readiness

• Early home visiting improves language, cognitive, and social skills, increasing kindergarten readiness and long-term academic success.

• Over time, these children are more likely to graduate high school, earn higher wages, and contribute positively to the local economy.

Reduced criminal justice costs

• Research links early childhood support programs to lower rates of juvenile delinquency.

• Communities that invest in early intervention see significant reductions in youth incarceration costs, saving an average of $10,000–$50,000 per case avoided.

Employers and investors should take note—early childhood investments directly impact workforce readiness, employee productivity, and regional economic growth. Consider the outcomes of “going upstream” and providing a sound structure of support from the start.

I invite you to be part of this transformational initiative. Let’s make Winnebago County a model for business-driven community investment where every child gets a strong start, and every business benefits from a healthier, more productive workforce.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

and address systemic barriers, and equitably impact the growth, development, and academic achievement of students.

Developments in workforce development

The latest news on one of your top priorities

By Christine Hand, managing editor

Your priorities are our priorities. And you’ve told us (and the Q1 Business Sentiment Survey confirms) workforce development is near the top of your list. Here’s a quick update on Chamber initiatives and workforce news in the Rockford Region.

Mapping the workforce ecosystem

In general terms, an ecosystem is a complex network of interconnected systems. And it doesn’t get much more complex than the Rockford Region’s workforce ecosystem. We have a host of entities dedicated to equipping people to join the workforce. But employers and job seekers are often overwhelmed by the seemingly unlimited options and frustrated by limited details.

The Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) Talent Committee is on a mission to change that paradigm by developing a user-friendly system that creates a talent advantage for the Rockford Region.

“We need one place where all of these regional resources are consolidated and described,” said Paula Carynski, Talent Committee chair. “We want to create a visual map that anyone can look at— job seeker or employer—and find the resources that best suit their needs. For job seekers, it might be higher education, skills training, or apprenticeships. For employers, it could be STEM graduates, skilled trades people, or interns.”

In March the Talent Committee, along with invited contributors, began conducting Workforce Ecosystem Mapping sessions, facilitated by Chamber CEO Angela Kay Larson. The group’s initial objective is to create a common understanding of the current situation by identifying the target audience, categorizing workforce development sources (military, high schools, colleges, job training, etc.), cataloging the programs offered by those various sources, and highlighting the relationships/interconnections within that ecosystem.

The Talent Committee looks forward to sharing insights and innovations from these ongoing mapping sessions in future issues of the VOICE.

More than college prep

On March 13, the GRCC Community Series kicked off with “Future-ready

Workforce Community Series panelists

Workforce—Data, Collaboration, and Action.” Moderated by GRCC CEO Angela Kay Larson, the expert panel featured representatives from local school districts: Chad Dougherty, Hononegah High School, District 207; Bridget French, Rockford Public Schools, District 205; Matthew Fry, Belvidere School District 100; and Jacob Hubert, Harlem High School , District 122.

Panelists shared details and anecdotes about their varied workforce development programs:

• Career-focused study, including engineering, medical sciences, criminal justice, education, and entrepreneurship.

• Work-based learning, including job shadows, internships, and apprenticeships.

• Business partners, sponsors and advisory boards.

• College & Career Pathway Endorsement Areas.

• Workplace Readiness Programs.

• Student participation rates and success stories.

By aligning their efforts with state frameworks and collaborating with local businesses and higher education institutions, these school districts are creating a robust ecosystem of support for their students’ post-secondary success. Boylan partners with Rockford University and Rockford Promise Boylan Catholic High School has joined with Rockford University and Rockford Promise to give eligible Boylan students the opportunity to attend Rockford University tuition-free. Rockford Promise is a non-profit 501(c)(3) location-based scholarship program that offers fulltuition scholarships to deserving graduates in Rockford. For more information, visit rockfordpromise.org.

Auburn Future Fair

Auburn High School will host Future Fair – Career Edition on Wednesday, April 16. The event highlights available positions that current juniors or graduating seniors can secure without college experience. Employers must reserve a booth by April 5. For details contact Kathryn Haun, College & Career Academy coach at 815-966-3300 x10512 or Kathryn.haun@rps205.com.

Emily Klonicki is the executive director of Alignment Rockford. In partnership with Rockford Public School District 205, Alignment Rockford brings together strategic partners from corporate, civic, political, religious, and social entities to challenge

Immigration and the workplace

How new policies may affect your business

By Penny Lechtenberg and Brett Strand, Lechtenberg & Associates LLC

With a change in Administration comes change in policy, including immigration policy. With the advent of the Trump 2.0 Administration, many employers and individuals wonder what will be changing and how it will affect them. Let’s review some areas where employers can improve their processes and prepare themselves for potential changes.

Immigration sponsorship

The same programs that were in place before January 2025 continue to date, without change. In practice, we have not seen much change since the inauguration other than the possibility of the slowing of processing by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the U.S. Department of State (responsible for visa processing abroad). The level of scrutiny of any petition received may become higher. Employers will continue to sponsor workers for lawful work authorization, just as in the past.

One concept proposed by President Trump is a new “golden” green card. Details have not been disclosed, but any such program would have to first be authorized by Congress before it would be implemented, after routine notice and comment periods.

Another program that is frequently discussed in the press with varying degrees of accuracy is the H-1B program. No changes to the H-1B program have been proposed to date, and the program itself is functioning as usual, with the new 2026 fiscal year H-1B visa petitions initiated with USCIS in late March 2025 as always. H-1Bs are a critical tool for employers, both large and small, to obtain workers with college degrees to fill positions that require them. The Trump Administration seems to acknowledge the value and necessity of the program. We remain hopeful that this potentially favorable position will continue, perhaps with an expansion of available H-1B slots.

Preparing for investigations

Employers can perform a risk assessment of their workplace practices to determine their exposure to potential fines and penalties in the event of Department of Homeland Security investigations. Do you have policies or systems in place for immigration sponsorship or I-9 procedures? Are you an E-Verify user? Have you received Social Security Administration NoMatch Letters in the past? Do you have a history of I-9 violations? Have any immigration raids occurred lately in your area or industry?

I-9 audits

Both the U.S. Department of Labor and the USCIS (through Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)) are authorized to audit your I-9 forms and other aspects of your HR documentation and compliance. You will receive a Notice of Inspection from the government at least three business days prior to an audit. If an officer arrives at your location with the Notice but no warrant, you are within your rights not to allow an immediate sameday audit, but rather request the full three-day period prior to inspection.

Are your I-9 forms in order and error-free? Are you training your HR employees regarding best practices for I-9 completion and retention? Are you retaining copies of the backup documentation? Is your electronic I-9 system compliant with federal requirements? Have you had prior violations? All of these things can be addressed and minimized with periodic internal review of your I-9 forms and practices.

Workplace raids

Workplace raids by USCIS have occurred throughout all Administrations, regardless of political party. A workplace raid could encompass just one target individual, or it could encompass a review of the entire workforce to identify and remove all individuals unlawfully present in the U.S. or lacking lawful U.S. work authorization.

Every employer should have a policy in place and have its gatekeeper staff prepared for any potential arrival of ICE/ USCIS/HSI agents in person. Agents’ arrival at the business does not always mean a raid. Sometimes they may visit an employer to drop off documents to the employer or to a particular individual. It is important for the gatekeeper to remain calm and professional at all times, determine the purpose, and immediately notify management of the government visitor.

In the case of a warrant that authorizes a search of the premises (for individuals or documents or both), employers’ rights are limited. The employer should immediately notify its legal advisor about the warrant, but the officers will not wait for a legal representative to arrive. The officers may take control of the premises and/ or seize documents

or individuals. Allow the officers access to the individuals, areas, email servers, and/or other documents identified in the warrant. Managers should not interfere with the officers’ work. Employers are, however, allowed to observe and follow the officers, and to take copious notes.

Site visits

More often in the last few years, USCIS (through its own officers or via contractors at the Federal Detection and National Security (FDNS)) has been visiting employers to conduct brickand-mortar checks regarding pending or previously-approved employmentbased visa petitions. Like the I-9 audit situations, employers should contact their legal advisor when an officer visits the premises or when the employer receives a Notice of Inspection to this effect.

Employee Travel

Individuals holding U.S. visas for travel or work purposes are never guaranteed admission into the U.S. following travel abroad, even though they may hold an unexpired U.S. visa. Consider assessing the upcoming

planned foreign travel of these employees and limiting it to essential travel until we see how interpretations develop. There is always a risk that an employee could be denied re-entry or denied a new visa (if traveling abroad to renew it). If that happens, be prepared with a plan. Will the employee be able to work remotely for an unspecified period of time until any issue is resolved? Have you considered any international tax or other country-specific business consequences relating to the employment of workers outside the U.S.?

It’s important to know your rights. Most importantly, be prepared in order to avoid or minimize unnecessary exposure to fines, penalties, and negative headlines.

This article does not constitute legal advice. Please consult your legal advisor regarding any particular immigration matters.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Penny Lechtenberg and Brett Strand provide counsel on employment and business immigration law matters at Lechtenberg & Associates LLC. Contact them at www.lechtenberglawfirm.com or 779-210-2940.

in the newsMEMBERS IN THE NEWS

BOARD APPOINTMENTS

The Rockford Park District Foundation welcomed three new board members: Ryan Lange (1), chief investment officer, Midland States Bank; Dody Hollins (2), manager Hospital Services Operations, OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center; Brent Scott (3), president, Rockford Community Bank.

Martesha Brown (4), president of the Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners, was elected vicechairman of the Illinois Association of Park Districts’ (IAPD) Board of Trustees.

Emily Hartzog (5), president, Chartwell Agency, was named to the Public Relations Society of America Counselors Academy (CAPRSA) 2025 Executive Committee.

Lori Berkes-Nelson (6), Rockford Park District Foundation director, was named president of the Kiwanis Club of Rockford.

NEW HIRES, PROMOTIONS, RETIREMENTS, DEATHS

Forest City Gear welcomed vocational intern Jace Richart, from Hononegah High School.

Ben Jackson (7) joined Waldom Electronics as the new senior supplier business manager.

Bob Campbell, executive director of Zion Development for ten years, passed away on Saturday, Feburary 8, surrounded by his family.

Carpenter’s Place welcomed back Michelle Croft (8) as its new homeless dayroom specialist.

The Rockford Housing Authority welcomed Alecia Bennett (9) as the new LIPH Program manager.

Larson & Darby Group welcomed Max Keating (10) as an architectural designer.

Stillman Bank promoted Eric Haugdahl (11), CFP®, to portfolio manager.

Geronimo Hospitality Group named Laura Pierce (12) as director of Irontek in downtown Beloit.

First Mid Bank & Trust promoted Jim Pieschel (13) to Regional Community Bank president, northern region.

The Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office welcomed Brandon Gecan (14) and Julia Almeida (15) as new Assistant State’s Attorneys. They were sworn in by 17th Circuit Court Chief Judge John Lowry.

Engineering Enterprises, Inc. (EEI), promoted four employees: Jacob Seger (16), PE, CFM, CPII, to senior project

engineer II, Thomas Soelke (17) and Anthony Radomski (18) to senior project technician I, and Michael Agate (19) to project technician. EEI also welcomed Vince Rizza (20), Alexander Brooke (21), and Joseph Ferrel (22) as new construction technicians.

Aqua-Aerobic Systems promoted Gennie Ustich (23) to HR/benefits manager and Jeff Johnson to electrical engineering manager.

Mercyhealth welcomed Madeeha Banu, MD (24), fellowship-trained pulmonologist, to the staff at Mercyhealth Lung Center, 8201 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford.

Barbara Olson Center of Hope welcomed Mackenzie Martinez (25), direct support professional.

Mercyhealth welcomed Madhusudan Malladi, MD (26), FACC, board certified cardiologist, to Mercyhealth Heart and Vascular Center, 8201 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford.

EMPLOYEE/COMMUNITY RECOGNITIONS, AWARDS

The Rockford Area Arts Council announced that Mikiah Gerrity (27) was named the Illinois State Poetry Out Loud Champion. She is the first state champion from Rockford in the

competition’s 20-year history and will advance to the National Poetry Out Loud Competition in Washington D.C. Jen Reisinger (28), financial advisor with Edward Jones, received her Certified Private Wealth Advisor® professional designation from the Investments and Wealth Institute®.

YWCA Northwestern Illinois announced the award recipients at its 2025 Leader Luncheon XLV:

• Women of Achievement awards –Lisa Entrikin (business), Christina Valdez (community leadership), Dr. Sheila Hill (mentorship), Julia ScottValdez (professions), Khaneidra Horton (promise), Dr. Alesia Jones (racial justice).

• Bright Future scholarship – Cassie Boyer, Dakota Jr/Sr High School; Sahyan Garcia-Mendez, Belvidere North High School; Anna Polasky, Belvidere North High School.

• La Voz Latina scholarships – Angie Perez, Boylan Catholic High School; Mia Rodriquez, Pecatonica High School.

Award winners of the Annual Juried High School Art Exhibition at Rock Valley College are: Nayeli Villalpando

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

15. Julia Almeida

9. Alecia Bennett

2. Dody Hollins

4. Martesha Brown

18. Anthony Radomski

13. Jim Pieschel

14. Brandon Gecan

20. Vince Rizza

7. Ben Jackson

1. Ryan Lange

16. Jacob Seger

11. Eric Haugdahl

3. Brent Scott

17. Thomas Soelke

12. Laura Pierce

19. Michael Agate

5. Emily Hartzog

8. Michelle Croft

6. Lori BerkesNelson

10. Max Keating

21. Alexander Brooke

24. Madeeha Banu, MD

26. Madhusudan Malladi, MD

27. Mikiah Gerrity

28. Jen Reisinger

23. Gennie Ustich

22. Joseph Ferrel

25. Mackenzie Martinez

in the newsMEMBERS IN

of Jefferson High School, Best of Show; Alexis Adams of Guilford High School, First Place; Roman Gorsline of Boylan Catholic High School, Second Place; Delaney Mckinny of Byron High School, Third Place.

The Rockford Area Arts Council

announced its 2025 Rockford Area Arts Awards winners:

Arts Educator of the Year – Jillian Myers

Distinguished Artist of the Year – Brett Whitacre

Excellence in Service to the Arts (individual) – Victor Rivera

THE NEWS

Excellence in Service to the Arts

(organization) – J.R. Kortman Center for Design

Young Arts Ambassador – Nailah Brooks

Innovation in the Arts – Bob Schlehuber

Literary Excellence – Jenna Goldsmith

Performing Artist of the Year – Mychall

Miller-Cornejo

Placemaking + Spacemaking – Maze Books

Production of the Year – SOMNIUM

Visual Artist of the Year – Laura Gomel

Crowning Achievement – Riverfront

Museum Park and the Coronado

Theatre

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

business BUSINESS BRIEFS

Hard Rock Casino Rockford partnered with the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office to sponsor Dice, the department’s newest K9 officer.

First Mid Bank & Trust awarded $970,000 in grants to help deserving homebuyers in 2024, using grant funds from the Downpayment Plus® (DPP) Program through the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago.

Rock Valley Credit Union (RVCU) announced new official partners in the Partnership Plus Program: Sarene Alsharif, LDN, MPH, and team at Tad More Tailoring and Alterations; Movement Fitness; and A to Z Towing (above).

The Rockford Park District’s 2025 Summer Camps Program Guide is now available. Printed copies are available at Rockford Park District Customer Service locations (UW Health Sports Factory in downtown Rockford and Carlson Ice Arena in Loves Park) and in limited quantities at other park district facilities.

Mercyhealth now offers prosthetic services at Mercyhealth Orthopedic Clinic, 7402 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park.

WATT Global Media will host the Chicken Marketing Summit 2025, July 28-30, at the DeSoto Savannah in Savannah, Georgia.

Registration for Farmers Rising Free Range Kids Camp is now open for camp dates in June, July, and August. Visit farmersrising.org/farm-camps

The NorthWest Illinois Alliance of Realtors announced a merger with the Illini Valley Association of Realtors in Peru, Illinois, for a total membership of 1065 realtors, covering nine counties.

First National Bank and Trust (FNBT) announced Arcadio Flores (above) as the grand prize winner of the FNBT Exclusive Debit Mastercard® Sweepstakes.

Chartwell Agency developed a comprehensive brand and website design for Discovery Center Museum as well as the Rural Medical Training Collaborative.

Think Big Corp. opened a new small business incubator for minority- and women-owned businesses at 1311 N. Main Street, Rockford.

Mercyhealth Javon Bea Hospital–Riverside (above) successfully performed the Rockford area’s first dual leadless pacemaker procedure.

The Natural Land Institute’s Legacy Tree Program March Tree of the

Month was a Weeping Higan Cherry located adjacent to Anderson Japanese Gardens at the corner of the Spring Creek Partners office building.

As part of Boylan Catholic High School’s annual Day of Caring, the entire freshman class spent the morning volunteering at Carpenter’s Place, Rock House Kids, Rockford Rescue Mission, and St. Elizabeth Center to support those in need.

Colorwave Graphics announced a new collaboration with Brian Thomas Photography.

Rockford Park District’s Therapeutic Recreation Summer 2025 Program Guide is available free of charge at rockfordparkdistrict.org/guides and at Park District customer service locations.

Mercyhealth’s Accountable Care Organization maintained top quality and cost performance scores in 2023 through its participation in the Medicare Shared Savings Program, a federal program focused on improving Medicare beneficiaries’ health outcomes while maintaining costeffectiveness.

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

Keith Country Day School’s (above) high school quiz bowl team won the Masonic Academic Bowl and was crowned the Class 1A State Champion.

community COMMUNITY EVENTS

NOW THROUGH MAY 25

The Secret Life of Butterflies exhibit, presented by Xfinity, Rockford Park District’s Nicholas Conservatory, 1354 N. 2nd St., Rockford. Visit nicholasconservatory.com/butterflies for more information.

APRIL 3

Abreo Tour of Asia—5 courses + 5 pairings, 5:30 p.m., Abreo 515 E State St, Rockford. Visit abreorockford.com for ticket info.

APRIL 4

First Friday Wine Tasting for Goldie Floberg, 5:30-8 p.m., Artale & Co., 6876 Spring Creek Rd #128, Rockford. Admission is a $20 cash/check donation to Goldie Floberg.

APRIL 5

Rockford City Market 5th annual Wedding Expo, five venues—Embassy Suites, Prairie Street Brewing Co., Rockford City Market, The Standard, and Union. Visit downtownrockfordweddingexpo.squarespace.com for info.

APRIL 6

Sensory Friendly 815 Easter Egg Hunt, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Alpine Hills Adventure Park, 4402 Larson Ave., Rockford.

APRIL 10-13

Art in Bloom, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Rockford Art Museum, 711 North Main Street, Rockford. Tickets are $10 ($5 for RAM members) and available for purchase at the door.

APRIL 11

Blueprints for Change: Innovative Housing Strategies, sponsored by Northern Illinois Council of Governments, noon to 1 p.m., 127 N. Wyman St., Rockford.

APRIL 12

16th Annual Bark and Wine Gala benefitting Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary and Clinic, 4-9 p.m., Tebala Event Center, 7910 Newberg Rd., Rockford. Visit noahsarkanimals.org/barkandwine for details.

APRIL 19

First National Bank and Trust (FNBT) Free Shred Day, 9 a.m. to noon, FNBT branch at 105 State Road 67, Walworth, Wisconsin. Safe disposal of sensitive documents for FNBT customers and community members. Egg-Spot at Edgebrook 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Special Easter Eggs will be on display in Edgebrook shops for families to spot and match to a map. Get the map at Norm’s Piggy Pen, find all the eggs, then bring the map back for a prize, and get photos with Annie the rabbit.

Rockford Park District Elite Girls Basketball Camp with guest coach Chicago Sky’s Michaela Onyenwere, 9-11 a.m., UW Health Sports Factory, rockfordparkdistrict.org/events

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

APRIL 24

Sip & Sample, hosted by RAMP Disability Resources & Services, 5:30-8 p.m., Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N 2nd Street Rockford. Includes samplings of wine, beer, spirits and food from a variety of local vendors, the Secret Life of Butterflies exhibit, and silent auction Visit rampcil.org/events for more info

APRIL 25

The Northwest Illinois Administrative Perinatal Center Annual Conference sponsored by Mercyhealth, 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., at NIU Rockford Education Center, 8500 E. State St., Rockford. Registration is $50 and includes contact hours, continental breakfast and a boxed lunch from Mary’s Market. To register call 608-755-8820. Registration deadline is April 18.

APRIL 26

First National Bank and Trust (FNBT) Free Shred Day, 9 a.m. to noon, FNBT branch at 1795 S Madison Rd, Beloit, Wisconsin. Safe disposal of sensitive documents for FNBT customers and community members.

APRIL 29

University of Illinois Extension Certified Food Protection Manager course, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. AND Friday, May 2, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Rockford Police Station District 1, 1045 W State Street, Rockford. Participants must attend the full two-day training to be eligible for the exam. Preregistration is required due to limited space. Contact extension office at 815-986-4357 or visit go.illinois.edu/jsw to register

MAY 4

Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra Spring Concert, 3-5 p.m., Belvidere High School Performing Arts Center. Admission is free. Visit rockfordsymphony.com/rsyo for info.

MAY 9

Kiwanis Club of Rockford’s annual fundraiser, Budding Artists Gala, presented by Midland Wealth Management, 5:30-9 p.m., Tebala Event Center, 7910 Newburg Rd., Rockford.

MAY 10

Veteran Employment and Resource Event, hosted by the Veterans Assistance Commission of Winnebago County (VACWC) and Hard Rock Casino, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 7801 E. State Street, Rockford. Visit vacwc.org/ employment-resource-event-2025/ for details.

BloomFest 2025 plant sale and artisan market, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Drive, Rockford

MAY 12

Reverse Job Fair, sponsored by RAMP and RPS 205, 9:30-11:30 a.m., Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront, 416 S. Main St., Rockford (12th floor).

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS

Thank you to members who renewed with the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce in February 2025

Barnes International, LLC

Dania Kheder

- Graphic Designer & Strategist

Darin LaHood, 16th Congressional District of Illinois

Embassy Suites

- The Top Rooftop Bar & Lounge

Embassy Suites

- Tower Kitchen & Bar

Eric Sorensen, 17th Congressional District of Illinois

Forest Hills Country Club

Gardant Management Solutions / Grand Victorian of Rockford

Gates Electric

Gio Events & Alchemy at Aldeen High PSI Ltd.

John M. Cabello, 90th District, Illinois State Representative

Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary

Northwestern Illinois Contractors Association

Nothing Bundt Cakes

Pierce Distribution Services Company

Pierce Laminated Products, Inc.

Pizza Hut - 11th Street

Pizza Hut - North Main

Pizza Hut - Perryville Road

Pizza Hut - South Alpine

Rally Appraisal, LLC

Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity Inc.

Sassy Boys Co.

SILVEROCK

Stepping Stones of Rockford, Inc.

The Workforce Connection

T-Mobile Fiber

Tony McCombie, 89th District, Illinois State Representative

Transform Rockford

Van Matre Encompass Health

Rehabilitation Institute

YMCA - Camp Winnebago YMCA

YMCA - Children’s Learning Center

YMCA - Northeast Family YMCA

YMCA - Puri Family YMCA

YMCA - SwedishAmerican

Riverfront YMCA

YMCA of Rock River Valley

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS

CHOREO ADVISORS

Chris.Kovarik@choreoadvisors.com 779-229-6571

EDWARD JONESASSOCIATE FINANCIAL ADVISOR: LORY MOLCHIN, AAMS™ 815-561-9794

PARTNERS IN SUCCESS, AMSPIRIT

strive4pink@gmail.com 815-742-6529

WILLOW CREEK COUNSELING

willowcreekcounseling@ therapyemail.com 779-210-3453

APRIL 2025 ANNIVERSARIES

Thank you to our members celebrating their anniversaries with the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce

115 YEARS

BMO Bank NA Woodward AT&T

J.L. Clark

Schmeling Construction Co. ComEd, An Exelon Company

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. HolmstromKennedyPC Rockford University

85 YEARS

WilliamsMcCarthy LLP

65 YEARS

Guyer & Enichen

- Attorneys at Law

55 YEARS

Larson & Darby Group

50 YEARS

Pepsi-Cola of Rockford

30 YEARS

Klaas Financial Asset Advisors, LLC

25 YEARS

Blackhawk Propane Company, Inc.

20 YEARS

Barbara Olson Center of Hope City First Church

5 YEARS

Progressive West Rockford CDC

What is your business? What do they provide for the community?

Stanley Steemer of Rockford. We meet the cleaning and restoration needs of the community.

How long have you been a Chamber Ambassador?

About two years. This is my second time as an Ambassador.

What is your favorite thing to do in Rockford or favorite thing about Rockford?

My favorite thing to do, besides being a couch potato, is going to Marc’s Fusion Cafe.

Advice for someone, especially young professionals, considering becoming an ambassador?

Communicate with your coworkers about setting aside time in your schedule to be active with the Chamber. It’s worth it.

CHaMBER CHAMBER EVENTS ADVERTISERS INDEX

APRIL 2025

THURSDAY, APRIL 10

Celebration of Leadership, 10 a.m., Illinois Bank & Trust Pavilion, 1868 Reid Farm Rd, Rockford.

Join coworkers, friends, and fellow Chamber members as we celebrate the 70th Class of GRCC’s Leadership Rockford program. During the eight-month course, the 2024/2025 graduating class built their leadership skills and enriched their awareness of business, government, and civic issues in the Rockford Region through coursework and handson interaction. Come congratulate them on embracing their roles as community leaders.

THURSDAY, APRIL 24

Community Series: Rockford Mayor’s Business Address, 11:30 a.m., Illinois Bank & Trust Pavilion, 1868 Reid Farm Rd, Rockford.

This important event will feature the Mayor’s keynote address, outlining strategic initiatives and collaborations aimed at propelling economic prosperity and enhancing the business landscape in our region. Thank you to our Community Series presenting sponsor, i3 Broadband

MAY 2025

MONDAY, MAY 19

GRCC Golf Classic, 11 a.m., Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Rd, Rockford.

Trade your computer screen in for a club, invite your clients, and join us for an afternoon on the course. Play a great round of golf, enjoy on-course beverages, connect with tee-box sponsors, and more. Always a hit, the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic kicks off summer and supports our mission to Lead Business Growth.

JUNE 2025

THURSDAY, JUNE 26

Community Series – The Vital Signs of Healthy Business, Healthy Workforce: There Is No Health Without Mental Health , 11:30 a.m., Illinois Bank & Trust Pavilion, 1868 Reid Farm Rd, Rockford.

Join our panel of healthcare experts as they demystify behavioral health and reveal steps employers can take to promote wellbeing in the workplace. Thank you to our Community Series presenting sponsor, i3 Broadband

Woodward, Inc. Immediate Past Chair DIRECTORS

Wendy Alsteen Hard Rock Casino

Travis Andersen UW Health Northern Illinois Region David Anspaugh

Cardenas

Center Jean Crosby

Hathaway HomeServices Crosby Starck Real Estate

Dietmar Goellner

Advanced Machine & Engineering

Thomas Green Barrick, Switzer, Long, Balsley & Van Evera, LLP

Troy Haggestad WilliamsMcCarthy LLP

Sheila Hill Think Big Corporation

Jeff Hultman Foresight Financial Group

Steve Kotso

Collins Aerospace

Carly LaMonica LaMonica Beverages, Inc.

Frank Wehrstein Dickerson & Nieman Realtors

EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS

Mayor Tom McNamara City of Rockford Dr. Gina Caronna The Workforce Connection

Michael Dunn, Jr. Region 1

John Groh GoRockford

Angela Kay Larson Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce