2012 rockford chamber yearbook

rockfordchamber.com - ROCKFORD CHAMBER

2012 Yearbook and Annual Report 1

ABOUT THIS BOOK - The 2012 Rockford Chamber of Commerce Yearbook and Annual Report is published by the Rockford Chamber of Commerce. Every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. The Rockford Chamber of Commerce does not assume any responsibility for errors or omissions which may occur.

FOR MORE INFORMATION - Contact the Rockford Chamber of Commerce, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, IL 61101, 815-987-8100, fax 815-987-8122, or e-mail at [email protected]. For advertising information call Lynette Jacques, Advertising and Sponsorship Executive at 815-316-4317.

© Copyright 2012 Rockford Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced without expressed written permission of the Rockford Chamber.

Table of Contents

A Letter to Chamber Members . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Rockford Chamber Mission-Vision . . . . . . . . . 4

New in 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

2012 Founders’ Day Celebration . . . . . . . . . . 7

2012 People You Should Know . . . . . . . . . . 8-9

2012 Regional Business Expo . . . . . . . . . . . 10

2012 Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-15

2012 Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16-18

Leadership Rockford. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

IGNITE, Young Professionals . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Partners in 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21-23

Ribbon Cuttings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24-29

Executive Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Board of Directors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Public Policy Initatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Chamber Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Advertising Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33, 35

Advertisers Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

308 West State Street, Suite 190Rockford, Illinois 61101

815.987.8100815.987.8122 fax

[email protected]

Writer/Managing EditorBarbara Connors

Layout/Design/ProductionDoug Hessong

Database ManagerJoan Sundvall

Advertising SalesLynette Jacques

PhotographyBrian Thomas Photography

and the Rockford Chamber Staff

CoverRiverby Bridge

A memorial was established in honor of Becky Brown, a longtime Rockford Chamber

employee, and her husband Chuck Brown, to raise funds to light the bridge.

2 Rockford Chamber of Commerce

ROCKFORD CHAMBER - rockfordchamber.com

Dear Valued Chamber Members,

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce has built on its strong foundation by offering new and innovative ways to help you grow your business. It has taken a leadership role in building a strong and vibrant community. Here is an overview of what has happened in 2012 and what to look forward to in 2013.

An Overview of 2012 Results and “Firsts”

• TheBoardofDirectorstookastandandendorsedtheCityofRockfordmunicipalelectricalaggregation,theRockfordPublicSchools’ten year facility plan, and the resolution supporting amendments to impose a Winnebago County hotel tax of up to 2% to fund the “ReclaimingFirst!”initiative.Theboardvotedtoopposethe“TenaskaBill,”regardingthebuildingoftheTaylorvilleEnergyCenter--aproposedcoal-fedpowerplant.

• TheChamberformeditsPoliticalActionCommittee,ROCPAC,toendorsecandidatesinelectionsbasedontheiradvocacyonareasofkey

interest to the business community.

• TheChamberhosteditsfirstFounders’DayCelebrationtocommemorateits102ndanniversaryandtohonorthe15foundingmembersandlegacymemberspresent.Fortypercentofmembersarelegacycompanieswhohavebeeninbusinessfor50to100years.

• TheChamber introduced twonewmembers into theBusinessHallofFame,aprogramacquiredby theRockfordChamber.EstwingManufacturingandHolmstrom&KennedyLLCjoined52otherbusinessesintheBusinessHallofFame.

• TheChamberofferedsavingstomemberbusinesses,includingreducedelectricityrateswiththePowershareco-op,discountsforshippingwithUPS,andreducedbusinessinsurancecostswithAuto-OwnersInsurance.MemberscouldjointheYMCAofRockRiverValleyCorporateWell-beingprogramatreducedrates.

• TheChamberenteredintoanagreementwithHumana of Illinois to offer a small business health plan, which can provide discounted ratestoitsmembersforhealth,dental,visionandlifeplansonaprice-advantagedbasistomemberswithtwoto99employees.

• TheChamber,throughitsPublicEducationCouncil,becameapartofthecommunity-wideeffortwithAlignmentRockfordtoestablishHighSchoolAcademies,beginningatJeffersonHighSchool.Plansaretoexpandtootherhighschoolsin2013.

• TheChamberpartneredwithmemberorganizationstoofferprofessionaleducationopportunitieswiththeMcGladrey, LLP “Manufacturing & DistributionExecutiveSummit,”theSikich LLPseminar“HiddeninPlainSight-DiscoveringandPreventingEmployeeDishonestyandFraud,”the US Bankseminar“LeadershipIntegrityandCyberFraudPrevention,”andThePensionSpecialists, Ltd., seminar “401(k) Retirement Symposium,HowWill401(k)Emerge?”

• TheChamberjoinedotherregionalleadersinthefifth-annualTri-StateAllianceTransportationSummit,CreatingResilientCommunities…Jobs,LocalFoods,andTransportationinDubuque,Iowa.

• TheChamberpartneredwithATHENAInternationalandPNCBanktowelcomeSusanJohnsonandTeresaMaloneyofKidsSpot,Inc.,asthenewestrecipientsoftheATHENAPowerLink® mentoring program.

• Manyconnectionsweremadeamongthemorethan2,000peoplewhoattendedthefifth-annualRegionalBusinessExpoatBMOHarrisBankCenter.Organizedbysixchambersofcommerce–Belvidere,DeKalb,Freeport,GreaterBeloit,theParksandRockford,theexpofeaturedmorethan120businessandnon-profitbooths.

• TheChamberannounceditssecondclassof20PeopleYouShouldKnow(PYSK)recipientsatacelebrationattendedbyover250people.TheirstoriesappearedintheChambermagazine,“ONE:OneVoicefortheRockfordAreaBusinessCommunity.”Morethan60nominationswerereceived.PYSKrecipientswillbefeaturedspeakersattalkspresentedbyRockfordCollegeandtheRockfordChamberin2013.

• TheChambercelebratedthegraduationofits57thLeadershipRockfordclassof32areaprofessionalsinMay.Theclasscompletedcommunityserviceprojectsforfiveareanon-profits.

• TheChamberhonoredAlphaControls&Services,Inc.astheSmallBusinessoftheYear.



• IGNITE,withastrongbaseofmorethan350youngprofessionalmembers,launcheditsProfessionalDevelopmentQuarterlyBookClubandenteredintoapartnershipwithNICNEtorollouttheNextGenerationBoardprogram.IGNITEpartneredwiththreeareanon-profitorganizations,focusedoneducatingthenextgeneration.

• TheChamberlaunchedanewmobileappandwebsite,withimprovedcapabilitiestoincreasememberexposure,browsememberbusinesses,accesschamberevents,tracknewsandredeemcoupons.CapabilitiesincludeplacingtheWebLinkMobileAppontheuser’shomescreenforquickaccess.Allcontentisupdatedinreal-timefromthememberdatabase.

• TheChamberlaunchedanewFacebookpagewithChamberandcommunitynewsandevents,andlinkstointerestingblogs,articlesandeventpictures.“LikeUs”atwww.facebook.com/RockfordChamberOfCommerce.

• TheChamberandtheChicagoDivisionofFBIanditsRockfordResidentAgency,launchedtheFBICitizen’sAcademyClass–thefirstofitskindinRockford.Businessleadersparticipatedinthefour-weekprogramandreceivedacertificateofcompletion.Twoclasseswereheldin 2012 and a local alumni chapter has been formed.

• Achartergroupof32femaleexecutiveRockfordChambermemberslaunchedLead360toincreasetheimpactandinfluenceofwomanbusinessleadersandtomentoryoungprofessionalwomen.Thegroupmetquarterlyformotivationalprogramming,educationalround-tables, breakout sessions and collaborative networking.

• FiftymembervolunteerscommittedtheirtimeandeffortstoreachouttobusinessesthroughouttheregionandsharethebenefitsofmembershipasapartoftheGetIntheGame!Campaign.

Networking, Education, Information - TheChamber’snoonandeveningeventsfeaturedlocalandnationalspeakersanddrewthousandsofChamberbusinessprofessionals.NationalspeakerscametoRockford,includingAlLautenslager,smallbusinessowner,marketingconsultantandauthorof“GuerrillaMarketingin30Days,”andTedNodzenski,IllinoisHospitalAssociation.AnumberofarealeadersspokeatChamberevents, informing participants on local issues.

Hundredsofmembersnetworked,learnedandsharedleadsatthemonthlyBreakfastBuzz,BusinessWomen’sCouncil,andGovernmentAffairsCouncilmeetings,GoodMorningRockford!andBusinessAfterHours,Chamber101MemberOrientations,ribboncuttings,andtheAdvantageClubandAmbassadorsmeetings.

Some New Initiatives for 2013, A Look Ahead - The Chamber will continue to meet the goal that its founding officers and members set --tobe“aforcefulworkingunitforthegoodofRockford.”Weremaincommittedin2013andbeyond,inexecutingourthree-prongedstrategyofLeadingBusinessGrowthintheRockfordarea.Overthepastcentury,theRockfordChamberanditsmembershavewitnessedchallengingeconomic times, but together have always come out ahead.

Here are some of the things to look forward to in 2013:

•SmallBusinessConference–“HelpingYourBusinessThrive” •FBICitizenAcademy–thirdclassofferingandformationofRockfordFBIAlumniAssociation •PeopleYouShouldKnowTalks–hostedbyRockfordCollege •FormationofBusinessAssociationforRockfordMediatopromoteadvertisingbestpractices •RockfordChamberPoliticalActionCommittee–ROCPACsupportinkeyelectionsthisApril •DevelopmentofapermanentlocationfortheNorthernIllinoisBusinessHallofFame

Regardlessofsize,yourbusinessisimportanttotheRockfordChamber.Besuretotakeadvantageofthemanybenefitsofmembership--professionaldevelopment,networkingandleadgeneration,publicpolicyinitiativesandvalue-addedprogramsdesignedtosaveyoumoneyand information to keep you on top of industry trends and best practices.

We look forward to working with you, and serving you, in the year ahead.

Sincerely,

RichardWalsh EinarK.Forsman BoardChairman President&CEO



Mission-VisionRockford Chamber

AbouttheRockfordChamber:The Rockford Chamber of Commerce is a market-driven, voluntary membership organization whose mission is to be the Rockford region’s leading advocate for business growth. The Chamber delivers benefit to the community by leading in the promotion of economic growth, advocating for the interests of business, and providing services and educational opportunities that help our members grow.

WhatWeDo:Leading.Business.Growth.

• TheRockfordChamberistheLeadingAdvocateforBusinessGrowthintheregion.

3-PointMission

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce delivers benefit to the community • byleadinginthepromotionofeconomicgrowth, • advocatingfortheinterestsofbusiness,and • providingservicesandeducationalopportunitiesthathelpourmembersgrow.

4-KeyMembershipBenefits:

• Networking & Education: We help members grow their business through valuable networking and educational opportunities. These events are carefully planned and produced so that chamber members can meet the right people to grow their business.

• Access & Information: We provide easy access to elected officials and community leaders who provide relevant information to help members grow their business and engage in community issues. They come to our events knowing they’ll get questions and opinions from members.

• Advocacy: We’re the business community’s public policy voice. Opinions and priorities of our mem-bers are advanced to local, state and national legislators; the message will be heard by the proper elected officials and the message will be delivered effectively.

• Value: We offer programs and services that add dollars to your bottom line. Discounts and other Cham-ber programs help you save money; referrals and sales opportunities bring customers to your door; and targeted, effective, and affordable advertising opportunities deliver results.



Chamber Member InformationGoesMobile

The Rockford Chamber launched a new mobile app and website, with improved capabilities to browse member businesses in the directory, access chamber events, track news and redeem coupons.

The WebLink Mobile web app (rock-fordchamber.com/mobile) is optimized for mobile devices that support Stan-dard Compatible browsers including: iPhone, iPad, iTouch, Android phones and BlackBerry phones (Version 6 software and newer only). Users can save the WebLink Mobile App to their home screen for quick access; all content is updated in real-time from the member database. Visit rockfordchamber.com to view the search-engine optimized business directory.

Newin2012The Rockford Chamber launched innovative new programs in 2012, aimed at honoring business leaders and helping business grow. Here are some highlights.

The Chamber on FacebookThe Rockford Chamber launched a new

Facebook page with Chamber and commu-nity news and events, and links to interest-ing blogs, articles and event pictures. It’s a great way to communicate with fellow members to share news, information and insights. “Like Us” the page at www.facebook.com/RockfordChamberOfCommerce.

FBICitizen’sAcademyClassThe Rockford Chamber and the Chicago Division of

FBI and its Rockford Resident Agency, launched an FBI Citizen’s Academy Class – the first of its kind in Rockford. Twenty-four business leaders participated in the four-week program in April and received a certificate of completion. A second class was held in the fall. Special agents from vari-ous units shared how their high profile investigations came together and were eventually tried in federal court. Students participated in firearms demonstrations and gained insight into the structure and operation of an FBI Field Office; obtained an overview of the legal basis for the FBI’s juris-diction and issues relating to congressional oversight; and learned about the services the FBI provides to local and state law enforcement agencies.

GetInTheGame!CampaignIt has been more than four years since the Rockford

Chamber had a membership drive. The timing was right to grow and strengthen the membership with the Get in the Game! membership campaign. Nine teams of 50 vol-unteers, lead by team captains, committed their time and effort to this cam-paign in October. These team members reached out to businesses through-out the region to share the benefits of membership.

Thank you to our Get in the Game! volunteers andour sponsors OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center

and SwedishAmerican Health System!



Seated: Anthony Mencarini, Diane Navickis, Barb Berman, Valerie Tippitt, Karen Tilly, Mary Ann Gaunt;

First Row Standing, left to right: Mary Ann Suprenant, Libby Simms, Teri Beyer, Jean Lopez, Pat Casazza; Second Row: Mary Jo Hare, Denise Wimmer, Michelle Quast, Stacy Wallace, Barb Lane, Debbie Hutchinson, Lori Radant, Susan Geise, Jocelyn Hare, Ritu Bhargava;

Third Row: Donna George, Debbie Klinefelter, Ranae Bergman, Kurt Berry, Rick Peters and Lori Barker.

Not pictured: Bea Ricotta, Kay King, Sue Boyer, Kelly Vinje, Lance Kamin, Robbin Snodgrass, Janet Fischer, Chris Sherrard, Suzanne Ainsworth, Kellie Miller, Stacie Scott, Andy Krauss, Kathy Sieden-burg, Cindy Nicolosi, Lori Radean, Kathy Vogel, Adriana Krauss, Ray King, Paula Fisher and Joanne Blaser

Introducing the 2012AmbassadorsThank you to the Rockford Chamber Ambassadors for your hospitality at ribbon cuttings, open houses and events in 2012.

Lead360In March, a charter group of 32 female

executive Rockford Chamber members launched Lead 360 with a mission to ex-pand the impact and influence of woman business leaders in the region and focus on mentoring young professional women. The group met quarterly for motivational programming, educational roundtables, breakout sessions and collaborative networking.

Topics for 2012 included a discussion on a self-assessment instrument to enhance communication, a guest speaker from Strategex who walked through the 80/20 Principle, a visit by Laura Schwartz, speaker, author, commentator and former director of events for the Clinton Administration, and a dis-cussion on leadership with guest speaker Jennifer Mackin, The Oliver Group.

2012 Sponsor:



More than 300 community members commemorated the Rockford Chamber’s 102nd anniversary at the first Founders’ Day Celebration on July 11th at Midway Village Museum. The Chamber plans to make this celebration an annual event. It was presented by Windstream and co-hosted by founding and legacy members of the Chamber.

Representatives of the Chamber’s founding members and many legacy members were present. 40 percent of the Chamber’s members are legacy companies who’ve been in business for 50 to 100 years.

RockfoRd chambeR founding membeRs

■ Aramark Uniform Services, Inc. ■ AT&T ■ Barnes International, Inc. ■ BMO Harris Bank ■ ComEd, An Exelon Company ■ Eclipse, Inc. ■ Holmstrom & Kennedy, P.C. ■ J.L.Clark, A CLARCOR Company ■ JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A ■ Rockford College ■ Rockford Register Star ■ Schmeling Construction Co. ■ Schneider Electric ■ Whitehead Inc., Realtors® ■ Woodward

Founders’DayCelebration

“When you look at all the organizations who come and go, who try and do things for the community, you have one in the Chamber that’s been a stable force for over a century.”

-- Einar Forsman, Rockford Chamber

NorthernIllinoisBusinessHallofFameThree members were inducted into the Northern Il-

linois Business Hall of Fame during the Founders’ Day Celebration:

• U.S. Congressman Don Manzullo • Estwing Manufacturing founder Ernest O. Estwing • Holmstrom & Kennedy founder R.K. Welsh

Estwing and Welsh were honored posthumously.

The Business Hall of Fame was started by Junior Achievement of Rock River Valley in 1987. When the organization closed, the Chamber stepped up to take on the recognition program. To date, 54 inductees have been honored. The long-range goal is to establish a permanent exhibit at Midway Village Museum for the Hall of Fame.

5Marty Tuckett, (center) accepts the award on behalf of Ernest O. Estwing, Founder of Estwing Manufacturing.

5Phil Frankfort (center) accepts the award on behalf of R.K. Welsh, founder of Holmstrom and Kennedy.



Saul Arteaga, Director, Southern Wisconsin Interpreting and Translation Services (SWITS)

Paula Carynski, Vice President for Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer, OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center

Dr. Robert Head, President, Rockford CollegeIan Linnabary, Partner, Reno & Zahm LLPJody Schumacher, Branch Manager, RK DixonBob Guirl, Director, Business Development, UTC Aerospace

SystemsDr. John Koehler, President, Physicians Immediate CareBill LaFever, President, Bill Doran CompanyJeff Layng, President – Business Banking, JPMorgan ChaseSarah Wolf, Executive Director, Discovery Center MuseumMark Hunter, Coordinator, Black Male Health Program, Win-

nebago County Health Department

Dan Cataldi, Executive Director, EIGERlabChristie Stenstrom Jarrett, Director of Human Resources

and Marketing, Stenstrom Companies, Ltd.Scott Sullivan, Partner, WilliamsMcCarthy LLPTim Knauf, Division President, Williams-Manny Inc.Dr. Bill Gorski, President and CEO, SwedishAmerican Health

SystemAmy Brewer, Vice President Commercial, Riverside Com-

munity BankLisa Miles, Business Development Manager, The Barbara

Olson Center of HopePeter Provenzano, President and CEO, SupplyCore, Inc.Phil Eaton, President and CEO, Rosecrance Health Network

Thank You to Our Event Sponsor Reno & Zahm LLP (presenting)

Congratulations:201220PeopleYouShouldKnow



AnExpandingNetworkofLeadersThe inaugural People You Should Know (PYSK) Class of

2011 spent the past year exchanging ideas and working on various ways to impact the community. According to James W. Keeling, one of the inaugural class, it was apparent at the reception that the group wanted jointly to create a benefit for the community, and not just to receive personal recognition.

The group chose Café Coronado as its group project with a goal to become the headliner lead sponsor of the event that benefits youth educational programming. Café Coronado is an intimate small group performance event in a world-class “cafe style.” Each PYSK honoree could participate and contribute to the fund according to their financial abilities and interest or just take a pass. In the end, 28 attended and raised almost $15,000 for the Coronado!

The second class of PYSK was introduced in 2012. This group of leaders has already begun meeting to determine what initiatives they want to use their collective influence to support.

Newfor2013-TEDx-StyleTalksPYSK recipients will be featured speakers at TEDx-Style

talks presented by Rockford College and the Rockford Chamber. Talks will be held once a week for students and the community and videotaped for those unable to attend. Andreas Schell, UTC Aerospace Systems, will kick off the series on Feb. 6, 2013. Jim Keeling is scheduled in April.

“The success of the collective endorsement of this group of civic leaders has set the bar high for our next Café Coronado in March, 2013. We are grateful for the generous spirit of the PYSK Class of 2011, and thank the Rockford Chamber of Commerce for uniting these dynamic individuals.”

-- Beth S. Howard, Friends of the Coronado/ Rockford Coronado Concert Association

“PYSK 2011 started a network group last year. I expect more activities this year for our class. I am also very excited about the TEDx-style pre-sentations that Rockford College has asked the PYSK 2011 and PYSK 2012 to present, starting after the first of the year.”

-- Jim Keeling, Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP

“Our goal is to have this be an ever-expanding network of leaders. We want them to become more familiar with each other and their peers. Last year’s group took it upon themselves to get together, take tours of each other’s businesses, and host small receptions.”

– Einar Forsman, Rockford Chamber

“It’s fantastic to enjoy the success and the hard work being done by so many folks who impact the greatness of this community.”

-- Phil Eaton, Rosecrance Health Network, recipient

“It’s humbling. It drives you to help widen the circle, to grow the leadership in town and to grow future candidates for this type of recognition.”

-- Bob Guirl, UTC Aerospace Systems, recipient



More than 2,000 people turned out September 20th for the fifth-annual Regional Business Expo, organized by six chambers of commerce – Belvidere, DeKalb, Freeport, Greater Beloit, the Parks and Rockford. Inside the BMO Harris Bank Center in downtown Rockford, the expo fea-tured more than 120 business booths, ranging from non-profit agencies to area restaurants.

Keynote speaker, Tom Casale, spoke about Constant Contact® and social media marketing. Visitors took part in speed networking events and breakout sessions on social media marketing, employment law issues for small business, and strategies for growing business. The event featured a green expo, a business after hours hosted by the Rockford Area Venues and Entertainment Authority, and restaurant row showcasing area food, services and facilities.

Presenting sponsor was TDS.

RegionalBusinessExpo2012

“It’s a great opportunity to mingle with other busi-ness owners. I get to see what the competition is doing, and I get to see other businesses that I don’t know about. It’s nice to see new faces. Any-thing the Chamber has to offer is important to us. There are plenty of good vibes, good people, good connections, and a lot of fun at events like this.”

-- Mary Jo Hare, SERVPRO



AnnualDinner

Rockford Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Robert Wil-lis shared his five Readiness Rocks initiatives to an audience of 700 as keynote speaker at the Rockford Chamber’s An-nual Dinner on January 19th, at Giovanni’s. The initiatives aim to lay the foundation for improving and enhancing the school district as it moves forward.

Presenting sponsor was WilliamsMcCarthy LLP

SmallBusinessLuncheon

Al Lautenslager, small business owner, marketing con-sultant and author of Guerrilla Marketing in 30 Days, was the keynote speaker at the Chamber’s Small Business Luncheon on February 16th at Cliffbreakers Resort and Conference Center. Lautenslager shared his strategies with 250 busi-ness professionals. He said, “Everyone knows they have to market their company, but they tend to put it on the shelf. They’re good at fixing cars, good at doing the financials or serving food, but they forget about the support functions like marketing, which is the lifeblood of the business. And you don’t need a huge budget to do it.”

Presenting sponsor was BMO Harris Bank.

2012Events

5Dr. Robert Willis provides encouragement during his address to the 700+ crowd at the Annual Dinner.

5Businesses learn tips for Guerilla Marketing from Al Lautenslager.

The Rockford Chamber offered many opportunities to develop connections, hear from community leaders and enhance skills through its regular events. Here are some highlights.

“His presentation was articulated well. Those of us who’ve been around for a while - all we’ve known for years are the problems with the Rockford Public Schools. It’s good to see there is a vision to get the district back on track.”

-- Casey Kahler, Larson & Darby Group

“Whether you have a lot of time or not, every company can do something to promote itself. Our employees are the marketers for BMO. The passion they have for our clients and the organizations we work with shows in every interaction.”

-- Theresa Wendhausen, BMO Harris Bank

ThankYou-To BMO Harris Bank for their Presenting Sponsorship of the 2012 Rockford Chamber Business Luncheon Series.



StateoftheCountyLuncheon

Winnebago County Board Chairman Scott Christiansen delivered his State of the County address on April 25th at the Best Western Clock Tower Resort to 360 business leaders. Christiansen addressed the improvement of the airport entrance on Airport Drive at 11th Street and the reconstruction of Falcon Road. He touched on Operation Clean Sweep and the Sheriff’s Task Force targeting drugs and gangs, and additional Neighborhood Watch programs. Road projects he mentioned were the completion of Merid-ian Road, the Pecatonica Path and the Montague Bridge. Christiansen identified opportunities in developing the new industrial area south of the airport and in bringing new business to the logistics and distribution hub develop-ing all along the I-39 corridor.


ManufacturingExpo&Dinner

The Rockford Chamber’s Manufacturing Expo and Din-ner drew 560 business leaders to Giovanni’s on March 21st to hear keynote speaker Sagar Patel, president of Aircraft Turbine Systems for Woodward, Inc. The event featured more than 50 booths of area manufacturing and related services. The Manufacturer’s Council brought students from several high schools to learn about manufacturing careers of the future. Patel shared Woodward’s long-range strategic and growth strategy, and keys to its past success-es. The global provider of energy control technologies has received some of the largest engine controls programs in its history.

Presenting sponsor was QPS Employment Group.

5Sagar Patel, president of Aircraft Turbine Systems for Woodward, Inc., provided the keynote address.

5Winnebago County Board Chairman Scott Christiansen delivers an encouraging outlook to a capacity crowd.

“There was more feeling of passion and advance-ment within the manufacturing industry this year. Compared to last year, these manufacturing leaders are now fully running their shops, and looking to find qualified skilled workers. Now, it’s a matter of order fulfillment rather than finding orders.”


“The good news is that we already have a num-ber of manufacturers evaluating the I-39 corridor and others already expanding along the corridor throughout the county.”

- Scott Christiansen, Winnebago County Board Chairman



AnnualGolfClassicIt was a sure bet that a good time was had by all at the

Rockford Chamber Golf Classic, a Vegas-themed event on the green felt of The Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Club on May 21st. Hole sponsors showed their Vegas spirit with decorated booths. A great day on the links ended with an evening of dinner and drinks in the Clubhouse.

Presenting sponsor was SwedishAmerican Health System.

5The Rockford Chamber Golf Classic is a great way to mix business with pleasure, hosting clients, as well as mingle with businesses and sponsors spread throughout the course.



WomeninBusinessExpo and Luncheon

The Rockford Chamber’s Women in Business Expo and Luncheon on June 21st at Cliffbreakers Riverside Resort fea-tured a panel of successful local woman executives – all inau-gural members of the 2011 People You Should Know. Kathy Weber, BMO Harris Bank; LoRayne Logan, workplace staff-ing; Lori Gummow, Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful, and

Rebecca Epperson, PR Etc., spoke to more than 400 business community members. The event included an expo of more than 50 booths.

Presenting sponsor was Women’s Center of Rockford Health System.

Mayor’sBusinessLuncheonRockford Mayor Larry Morrissey encouraged more than

350 community leaders to step up and make Rockford a world-class community, during his remarks at the Rockford Chamber Mayor’s Business Luncheon on August 16th at Giovanni’s. Mayor Morrissey focused on three areas: build-ing a world-class business climate, physical infrastructure and human capital. He also praised Rockford Public Schools for its excellent leadership.


“It’s impossible to think realistically about re-cruiting, retaining and sustaining world-class jobs, if we’re not comparing ourselves to what world-class communities can provide to those world-class employers. Employers are so mobile today. They can move anywhere. If we can’t serve their needs, they’re going to go somewhere else.”

-- Rockford Mayor Larry Morrissey

“They’re all successful, and they feel strongly about Rockford. I think it’s important for younger professionals or people new to business to connect with those who are successful in their careers.”


5Martha Hayes, Rockford Public Schools, leads the panel disscussion with successful local woman executives, inaugural members of the 2011 People You Should Know.

5Mayor Morrissey challenges the business community to build a world-class business climate at the annual Mayor’s Business Luncheon.



EducationOutlookLuncheon

Dr. Robert Willis, interim superintendent of Rockford Public Schools, and Dr. Ehren Jarrett, the next superinten-dent, shared their thoughts with more than 400 commu-nity leaders about the district’s future during the Rockford Chamber’s Education Outlook Luncheon on December 6th at Cliffbreakers Riverside Resort. Jarrett will assume the position of superintendent in July, once the current school year ends. He will continue to implement plans created last year in the five “Readiness Rocks,” which includes college and career readiness, seven periods to success, 21st-century learning environments, preschool for all and college for all.

The luncheon was sponsored by BMO Harris Bank.

5Incoming superintendent Dr. Ehren Jarrett shared his thoughts about the district’s future.

Healthcare Industry Update

Ted Nodzenski, vice president of strategic and business development for the Illinois Hospital Association, spoke to 250 community leaders at the Rockford Chamber Healthcare Industry Update luncheon on November 16th at Giovanni’s. Nodzenski gave employers several reasons why they should think twice about doing away with healthcare benefits for employees, including penalties for dropping, the impact on employee morale and the effect on productivity. “It sends a bad signal to your workforce and the community,” he said.


5Ted Nodzenski challenged the audience with his views regarding the health care industry

“He’s going to do a fabulous job because he be-lieves in the team concept. To have a leadership team that believes in the same things, you can’t help but succeed.”

-- Dr. Robert Willis, Rockford Public Schools

“All of us have a role, one way or another. Maybe we can start a tutoring program. We need volun-teers to provide services that will help our neigh-bors and their children.”

-- John McNamara, Rockford College and former Rockford Mayor

“We haven’t changed our business model for 60 years, and I think it’s time for change. I think the way we have siloed ourselves, whether you’re a payer or provider, those days are done.”

-- Gary Kaatz, Rockford Health System

“It’s difficult to know how the implications of ac-countable care (ACO) are going to unfold, except to say it’s inevitable.”

-- David Schertz, OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center

“I’m a big fan of reform. We have to do it. The is-sue is payment penalties to employers for putting their employees into the exchange. To me that’s troubling.”

-- Dr. Bill Gorski, SwedishAmerican Health System



SmallBusiness

SmallBusinessoftheYearAlpha Controls & Services, Inc., was named the Rock-

ford Chamber Small Business of the Year at the Small Business Luncheon on February 16th. The company, which designs smart buildings for customers, experi-enced in 2011 a 42 percent increase in sales, and a 19 percent increase in its workforce with the addition of new engineers and service technicians. It helped clients real-ize energy and operational savings, in collaborating with local manufacturer Schneider Electric, ComEd, Ameren, the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportu-nity, and other energy grant programs, which help clients secure utility rebates and grants.

AnnualDinner

CitizenoftheYearA highlight of the Chamber’s Annual Dinner on January

19th was the announcement of the 2012 Citizen of the Year: Mike Robinson, director of marketing and communications at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center. The former local tele-vision news anchor is a diligent volunteer for many organiza-tions, including as a board member for Highview Retirement Home Association, Access Services of Northern Illinois and Rockford MELD.

2012AwardsThe Rockford Chamber honored individuals and businesses for outstanding successes in businessandthecommunity.Chamber-membercommitteeschosehonoreesbasedoncareful review.

5“I’ve always looked at my role as doing whatever I can to move the community forward. I believe in what the community is doing, what the community stands for, and the people who are pushing it forward.” – Mike Robinson, OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center

5“It’s a great recognition for our employees’ hard work in finding solutions for our customers that can help improve their financial performance.” – Brent Bernardi, Alpha Controls & Services, Inc.

Previous Recipients:

■ James L. Keeling, Hinshaw & Culbertson LLC (2011) ■ Barb Berman, Citizen Volunteer (2010) ■ Robert Funderburg, The Funderburg Foundation (2009) ■ Jon Lundin, posthumously (2008) ■ Mike Dunn, Greater Rockford Airport Authority Board (2007) ■ Sue Grans, William Charles (2006)



ManufactureroftheYearSpecialty Screw Corporation received the Manufacturer of

the Year Award. Founded in 1953, the locally owned compa-ny provides products for the fastening and engineered compo-nent market and has incorporated lean technology and green initiatives throughout its company. In January, 2012, it in-stalled a solar photovoltaic system using locally manufactured solar panels that will generate up to 1.8 kilowatts of energy.

ManufacturingThe Rockford Chamber Manufacturing Dinner & Expo

on March 21st honored area individuals and a business that positively affected the regional manufacturing industry.

ManzulloIndividualBusinessCatalystMelba Bradberry, Judy Pike and Teresa Beach-Shelow,

founders of Women of Today’s Manufacturing (WOTM), won the Manzullo Business Catalyst of the Year Award. For 10 years, WOTM has provided mentoring and leader-ship in manufacturing, especially to young people. Among other activities, it has hosted eighth, ninth and tenth grade students to attend TECHWORKS Manufacturing Camp at EIGERlab in summer, and has awarded scholarships to area residents looking to begin or advance a career in manufacturing.

5“Through our efforts and fundraising we’ve been able to establish scholarships between $40,000 and $50,000 for graduating seniors to go out into the manufacturing world. One of our first manufactur-ing camp students went on to earn an engineering degree from the University of Iowa. That is so exciting.” -- Judy Pike, Acme Grinding

5“We work very hard to satisfy our customer needs, to be innova-tive and to develop products that they will like. Our employees haveworked hard and sacrificed during the recession. But we always kept our spirits up because we knew that the economy would come back at some point.” – Bill Conkling, Specialty Screw Corporation

DidYouKnow?The Rockford Chamber issues certificates of origin (COs) to local exporters? Chambers have played a role in de-livering COs since the 1923 Geneva Convention. COs prove the origin of goods being exported in order to sat-isfy customs or trade requirements. For more information on obtaining a CO, contact Vee Jevremovic, Rockford Chamber, 815-316-4337 or [email protected].


■ Rick Bastian, Blackhawk Bank (2011) ■ Mike Molander, Austin-Western LLC (2010) ■ Robert Schafer, B/E Aerospace (2009) ■ Keith Irons, Rockford Area Ventures/EIGERlab (2008) ■ Bob Trojan, Rockford Linear Actuation, Inc. (2007)


■ J.L. Clark (2011) ■ Energy Dynamics, Inc. (2010) ■ Rockford Toolcraft, Inc. (2009) ■ Eclipse, Inc. (2007) ■ Aqua-Aerobic Systems, Inc. (2006)



several departments, 1,200 employees and a budget of $160 million. In 2002 and 2009, she was instrumental in OSF earn-ing Magnet status, a national program that recognizes health-care organizations for outstanding nursing systems.

WomanBusinessOwneroftheYearPatti Thayer, owner of Thayer Lighting since 2007, won

the Business Owner of the Year award. Thayer has seen growth in sales and employees. Her company is regarded as a local leader when it comes to energy conservation.

WomeninBusinessThe Rockford Chamber’s Women in Business Expo and

Luncheon on June 21st recognized three local women-owned/managed businesses and leaders making a difference in Rockford.

WomanBusinessLeaderofTomorrowRoseAnn Taphorn, sales and marketing assistant at North

American Tool, was recognized as Woman Business Leader of Tomorrow. Taphorn is responsible for overseeing her company’s sales reporting, convention show planning and social media program.

WomanManageroftheYearPaula Carynski, vice president for patient care services and

Chief Nursing Officer at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, received the Manager of the Year award. Carynski oversees

5L to R: Business Leader of Tomorrow, RoseAnn Taphorn, North American Tool; Business Owner of the Year, Patti Thayer, Thayer Lighting, Inc.; and, Manager of the Year, Paula Carynski, OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center.


■ Heather Kelley, Argyle Marketing (2011) ■ Veronica Blake, Hamilton Sundstrand (2010) ■ Mary Cacioppi, Ignite, Next Rockford (2009) ■ Joy Baldwin, Alpine Bank (2008) ■ Amanda Haymaker, Girl Scouts-Rock River Valley Council (2007)


■ Rebecca Kopf, PR Etc. (2011) ■ Mary JoHare, ServPro of Rockford (2010) ■ Bonnie Smith, Accurate Accounting and Payroll Services, LLC (2009) ■ MaryAnn Norwood, Pathways EAP (2008) ■ Jean Vitale, Beef-A-Roo (2007)


■ Kris Kieper, YWCA of Rockford (2011) ■ Lori Gummow, Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful (2010) ■ Julie Bosma, RAMP (2009) ■ Linda Grist Cunningham, Rockford Register Star (2008) ■ Lori Berkes-Nelson, Golden Apple Foundation (2007)



Leadership RockfordMore than 225 business and community leaders cel-

ebrated the graduation of the 57th Leadership Rock-ford class of 32 area professionals at the Rockford Chamber’s Celebration of Leadership luncheon on May 10th at the Radisson Hotel & Conference Center. Over eight months, Leadership Rockford participants gained knowledge and awareness of business, government and civic issues with bi-weekly classes from October to May. Participants engaged in group and panel discussions and completed community service projects. A highlight was

the chance to meet with state legislators during a class trip to Springfield in April.

Moderators for this year’s program were Jeff Tilly, Rock-ford Register Star; Lisa Johnson, OSF Saint Anthony Medi-cal Center, and Patricia Diduch, RREDD.

The moderators for the 2012-2013 program are: Jake Loe-scher, Savant Capital Management; Geoffrey Oman, Great-er Rockford Airport Authority, and Kelly Vinje, Gordon Flesch Company, Inc.

The prgram was presented by PNC Bank.

Congratulations! Leadership Rockford, 2011/2012

Ben Ackert, Fehr-Graham & AssociatesTracy Bonavia, BMO Harris BankCyndi Brush, Alpine BankCraig Carlson, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.Thomas Cross, Holmstrom & Kennedy, P.C.Bryan Cutler, Winnebago CountyKara Davis, North Central GroupLinda Dolezalek, McGladreyJames Evans, Rockford Health SystemAlbert Ferrabone, SwedishAmerican Health SystemKevin Gugliuzza, Scandroli Construction Company

Sheila Hill, EventusLynette Jacques, Rockford Chamber of CommerceMichelle Johannsen, Village of Machesney ParkMike Johnson, Cord Construction CompanyKarissa Kienast, Prairie State Legal Services Inc.Jocelyn Koch, Holmstrom & Kennedy, P.C.Marcy Leach, City of RockfordJakob Loescher, Savant Capital ManagementTherese Michels, OSF Saint Anthony Medical CenterGeoffrey Oman, Greater Rockford Airport AuthorityPamela Owens, RVC Foundation

Jason Pavlat, UTC Aerospace SystemsLori Radean, Discovery Center Museum of RockfordTonya Reuber, Rockford Park DistrictJessica Rielly, Stillman BankRyan Rydell, RyCOMCharles Schweinler, 13 WREXColin Simpson, City of RockfordMargie Veitch, YMCA of Rock River ValleyKelly Vinje, Gordon Flesch Company, Inc.

2011/2012LeadershipRockfordGraduates



IGNITE’s mission is to make the greater Rockford area a premier community by attracting and retaining young pro-fessionals. In 2012, IGNITE had a strong base of more than young professional members and 24 corporate and founding partners. Since its inception four years ago, it has hosted more than 400 events – all opportunities for personal and profes-sional growth, leadership, networking and volunteering.

Its three major priorities:EDUCATE: Provide personal and professional educa-tional programs that add value and growth to young profes-sionals for both their work life and home life. INVOLVE: Create a connection between the community and young professionals that fosters mutual growth and cooperation. REACH: Bring people together with both business and so-cial networking creating a fun and active environment for young professionals. Visit www.igniterockford.com.

IGNITEEventsAfter 5 A time to relax and unwind with other IGNITE members at local hotspots. Lunch Outside the Box (LOTB) A lunch series designed to educate young professionals on Rockford area community issues and to provide a forum for YP’s to learn from commu-nity business and civic leaders.Unplugged A meet and greet local leaders and interesting speakers in a relaxed, intimate forum. For Dummies A professional development and etiquette se-ries shaping young professionals into strong business leaders.

QuarterlyBookClubIgnite launched on Jan. 7, 2013 at Lonestar Steakhouse in

Rockford its Professional Development Quarterly Book Club to provide young professionals with access to more professional de-velopment. The book reviewed was “The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business,” by Charles Duhigg.

RoaringRockfordMembershipPartyIGNITE held its third-annual Roaring Rockford Casino

Soiree on Oct. 5 at Giovanni’s, Inc. Attendees dined as the stars did in the 1920s in an IGNITE version of NYC’s Club 21. The event featured casino tables, a silent auction and dancing the night away to music from the 1920s.

AnniversaryBash:ANightoutontheTown:ARedCarpetAffair!

IGNITE on May 18 hosted an evening filled with paparazzi, glam, red carpet, live music, and awards show and after party. The event was a celebration of organizational milestones and awards for Quarter-Life Achievement, Best Place to Host an After 5, Most Influential New Member, and more.

NextGenerationBoardIgnite, in partnership with NICNE, the Northern Illinois

Center for Nonprofit Excellence, rolled out the Next Gen-eration Board program, in order to give nonprofit organiza-tions a direct link to the YP talent pool in Rockford.

YoungProfessionalsGIVEBackIGNITE’s young professionals gave back to the communi-

ty by partnering in 2012 with non-profit organizations. The focus was on educating the next generation.

• Lydia Academy • Alignment Rockford’s Math Tutoring Program • United Way of Rock River Valley’s IREAD Initiative

5Former IGNITE Director Caitlin Ludwig, IGNITE President Thomas McNamara and wife Sarah attend IGNITE’s Anniversary Bash.

5YPs try their luck at charity casino games.



and life plans will be offered on a price-advantaged basis to Rockford Chamber members with two to 99 employees. Members can save up to two percent on medical premiums, and up to five percent on dental, vision and life plans.

‘NextGeneration’RetirementPlans

The Chamber and ThePensionSpecialists, Ltd., held a complimentary 401(k) Retirement Symposium, How Will 401(k) Emerge? Conversations About ‘Next Generation Re-tirement Plans’, on April 24 at Giovanni’s Restaurant and Convention Center. The half-day symposium featured two of the most respected national experts on employer retire-ment plan development and offered models for compliance, how to achieve key objectives for employer and employees, and out-of-the-box concepts for developing an effective plan.

Partnersin2012TheRockfordChamberpartneredincommunity-wideinitiativeswithmany organizationsin2012

ImprovingtheBottomLine

In 2012, the Chamber leveraged the power of its strong membership base with the launch of several value-added programs to deliver savings on the cost of doing business.

Powershare. The Powershare program continued as an energy co-op for Chamber members to offer lower electric utility rates to small businesses not available on an indi-vidual basis. Rates achieved typically saved a business one month’s energy cost in a one-year period.

UPS. The Chamber and UPS offered savings on shipping and freight to members. Savings for shipping was as high as 28 percent, while savings on freight was as high as 70 percent.

Auto-Owners Insurance. Members received 10 per-cent discounts on business insurance costs, especially in ar-eas like worker’s compensation, which can be a very high cost portion of operating a business.

YMCA Corporate Well-Being. The YMCA of Rock River Valley and the Chamber offered members who joined the YMCA’s Corporate Well-being program for employees no Corporate Enrollment fee and one month free.

SmallEmployerHealthPlanswithHumanaThe Chamber entered into a program agreement with

Humana of Illinois, whereby Humana health, dental, vision

“We have heard consistently from our small busi-ness members about their need to find a quality health offering that they can afford and rely upon.”

– Einar Forsman, Rockford Chamber of Commerce

“Our mission is to help people achieve lifelong well-being, and an important part of that is en-abling access to affordable and quality health care. These new plan offerings through the Cham-ber will allow small businesses to provide quality health insurance to their employees, while saving money at the same time.”

– Jeff Schmidt, Humana

POWERShare

residential



ATHENAPowerLink®Susan Johnson and Teresa Maloney of Kids Spot, Inc.,

were named the 2012 recipients of the ATHENAPowerLink® mentoring program at the Rockford Chamber Women in Business Expo and Luncheon on June 21. The program in Rockford is a partnership between the Chamber and ATHE-NA International and co-hosted by PNC Bank. Participants meet with an advisory panel of area professionals represent-ing various areas of expertise. The panel works with them at no charge for an entire year to meet their business goals – a value of $40,000.

Manufacturing&DistributionSummit

McGladrey LLP and the Chamber presented the 2012 McGladrey Manufacturing & Distribution Executive Sum-mit on Nov. 16 at Franchesco’s Ristorante in Rockford. Keith Friede, area vice president for Gallagher Benefit Ser-vices, provided updates on the potential impact that health care benefits would have on the industry. Highlights of the 2012 McGladrey Manufacturing & Distribution Monitor were given, including executives’ views on major issues af-fecting U.S. manufacturers and distributors.

EmployeeFraudSeminarSikich LLP and the Chamber presented the compli-

mentary seminar, Hidden in Plain Sight: Discovering and Preventing Employee Dishonesty and Fraud, on Oct. 4 at NIU Rockford. Topics addressed included corporate and governmental loss from employee dishonesty -- estimated to claim six percent of revenue -- and fraud schemes common

RollOutofHighSchoolAcademy

When the Rockford Chamber formed a Public Educa-tion Council more than two years ago, it signaled a shift in its position on schools from passive supporter to active par-ticipant. In 2012, the Chamber partnered with Alignment Rockford and other key organizations to support the estab-lishment of High School Academies. The initial phase took place at Jefferson High School, with plans for expansion to other high schools in 2013.

The academies aim to expose students to careers in in-dustries, such as manufacturing, healthcare and aerospace, to encourage them to discover what they enjoy and move successfully forward after graduation. At Jefferson, an academy coach was hired and the Chamber invited mem-bers to become community partners to help deliver real-world relevance to the curriculum and align it with indus-try standards and practices.

The Chamber also advocated for an internal selection process for the next Rockford Public Schools Superinten-dent and the development of an ongoing succession plan for future leadership within the school system. The succes-sion model was realized with the appointment of Dr. Eh-ren Jarrett as the next superintendent, to replace Interim Superintendent Dr. Robert Willis.

5Kristan McNames, named Susan Johnson and Teresa Maloney of Kids Spot, Inc., as this year’s participants in the ATHENA PowerLink® mentoring program.


■ Kristan McNames, Grace Funeral & Cremation Services (2011) ■ Antoinette “Toni” Brown, Stepping Stones (2010) ■ Jennifer Anderson, Anderson Environmental & Engineering Co. (2009)



for profit and non-profit organization. The seminar also ad-dressed employee theft and the profile of an employee who typically engages in dishonest behavior.

LeadershipIntegritySeminar

US Bank and the Chamber presented the complimentary seminar, Leadership Integrity and Cyber Fraud Prevention: How People Lose Their Ethics and What Can be Done to Stop It, on Nov. 7 at Radisson Conference Center. Jeff Lan-za, retired FBI agent, gave information on hiring employees with high integrity and maintaining a moral compass. Lanza was an FBI agent for more than 20 years and investigated corruption, fraud, organized crime, cyber-crime, human trafficking and terrorism.

MoneySmartWeekThe 2012 Money Smart Week (MSW), April 21 to 28,

featured more than 65 participating partners and almost 90 programs in Rockford. Programs touched on healthy saving habits, kids and money, community shred days, predatory lending, home buying and foreclosures, funeral pre-plan-ning, and understanding Medicare and retirement planning. The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago coordinates MSW. Visit www.moneysmartweek.org.

TriStateAllianceRegional TransportationSummit

The Rockford Chamber joined other regional leaders in the fifth-annual Tri State Alliance Transportation Summit, Creat-ing Resilient Communities… Jobs, Local Foods, and Trans-

portation, on May 18 at the Hotel Julien, Dubuque, Iowa. Government, commerce and business leaders discussed the region’s priorities for transportation infrastructure, the future transportation bill, transportation programs, funding levels, and local foods. Visit www.tristatealliance.com.

FastPitchExpandsin2012In 2012, the EIGERlab expanded on the FastPitch (FP)

competition. Three competitions took place in Winnebago, Boone and Rock, and Walworth, Racine and Kenosha coun-ties. The 6th annual Stateline FP competition in Rockford took place on June 20 at NIU-Rockford; drawing 46 present-ers from Illinois and Wisconsin, including eight students representing six colleges: RVC, NIU, UWW, Liberty Univer-sity, Cornell and the London School of Finance. Hopefuls shared their business ideas in a three-minute pitch in front of a panel of judges and the public.

2012 Winners:1. MySecureDelivery, IP & personal collateral security prod-uct, start-up phase.2. The RAT, Recess Access Tool for emergency extrications, start-up phase.3. miPact, centralized connection to loan and borrow goods, start-up phase.

Student Division Winner:Ink Again, marker centrifuge in the beta test phase, with a product slated to hit the market in 2013.

“It was an amazing opportunity of growth and ex-posure for aspiring entrepreneurs. I am extremely grateful, and I would urge those who have consid-ered being an entrepreneur to attend or partici-pate. For, remember, as in life, nothing ventured — nothing gained!”

-- Chris Wachowiak, Kryptonite Music Lounge



Ribbon CuttingsAhighlightofthemanyribboncuttingsbytheRockfordChamberformembersin2012.

Crimson Pointe, 7130 Crimson Ridge Dr., hosted a full-day grand reopening and service fair on Jan. 17.

The Treasure Shop Florist, 1274 S. Alpine Road, Rockford, held a ribbon cutting on Jan. 27.

Salvino’s, 7801 E. State St., Rockford, (Clock Tower Resort) held a ribbon cutting on Feb. 10.

Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Jan. 26, 615 N. Longwood St., Rockford.

Choice Furniture Inc., 1350 S. Alpine Road, Rockford, held a rib-bon cutting on Jan. 27.

KP Counseling, Inc./Four Corners Wellness, 6392 Linden Road, Rockford, held a ribbon cutting on Feb. 17.



Weight Watchers, 6282 E. State St., Rockford, held a ribbon cutting on Feb. 23.

Pierce Distribution Services Company, 3836 S. Central Ave., held an open house and ribbon cutting on April 5.

Valli Produce of Rockford, Inc., held a ribbon cutting on April 18 at its new location at 5880 E. State St., Rockford.

PR Etc., Inc., held a ribbon cutting and open house on May 10 for its new space at 120 W. State St., Ste. 305, Rockford.

Rock River Valley Pantry, 421 S. Rockton, Rockford., held a ribbon cutting on Feb 29.

Red Mango held a grand opening and ribbon cutting on April 6, 1093 W. Lane Road.

SwingnSplash held a ribbon cutting on May 3 at 2245 N. Central Ave., Rockford.

Wesley Willows, Suites II held a ribbon cutting on May 16 at 4141 N. Rockton Ave., Rockford.



In Home Services, Inc., held a ribbon cutting on May 17 at 7130 Crimson Ridge Road, Rockford

Rockford Mass Transit District held a ribbon cutting/grand opening at 725 Lyford Road, Rockford, on May 22.

Rock Valley Compounding Pharmacy held a ribbon cutting on May 23 at 811 S. Perryville Road, Ste. 109, Rockford.

Barbara Olson Center of Hope held a ribbon cutting on May 31 of its Com-munity Therapy Clinic, 3206 N. Central Ave.

Our Walk-In Closet, a resale and consignment boutique at 5846 E. State St., Rockford, held a ribbon cutting on May 18.

Lincolnshire Place held a ribbon cutting on May 22 at 6617 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park.

Stumpy’s Pub and Maciano’s Pizza held a ribbon cutting on May 30 at 5801 Columbia Pkwy., with refreshments and tours.

the groundUP s.s.i. (gUs, inc) held a ribbon cutting on June 1 at 6330 For-est Hills Road, Loves Park.



The District Bar & Grill held a ribbon cutting on June 1 at 205 W. State St., Rockford.

Circles of Wellness held a ribbon cutting on June 25 at 101 N. Alpine Road, Rockford.

U Save Liquor held a ribbon cutting on June 28 at 7904 N. 2nd St., Machesney Park.

Comprehensive Prosthetics & Orthotics held a ribbon cutting on July 20 at 535 Roxbury Road, Rockford.

Jersey Mike’s held a ribbon cutting on June 19 for its new location at 1513 West Lane Road (Rte. 173), Machesney Park.

Fairhaven Christian Retirement Center held a ribbon cutting on June 26 of its newly constructed chapel/auditorium at 3470 N. Alpine Road, Rockford

Booker Washington Center and the YMCA of Rock River Valley held a grand opening July 16 for the Willie D. Ashford Sr. YMCA Branch.

Upstream Investment Partners held a ribbon cutting on July 26 at 423 Financial Court, in Rockford.



Wyeth Stadium, home to Auburn and Jefferson teams, celebrated its stadium renovation and artificial playing field addition.

Aqua-Aerobic Systems held a ribbon cutting on Aug. 16 for a new Research and Technology Center, 3333 S. Kishwaukee St., Rockford.

Matt Duffy, (DeKalb); Randall Upton, (Greater Beloit); Jon Ollman, (TDS); and Einar Forsman, (Rockford), at the 2012 Regional Business Expo Sept. 20.

Foot Lodge, Inc., in the Crown Plaza, 6520 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, held a grand opening and ribbon cutting on Sept. 14.

Swanson Stadium, home to Guilford and East teams, celebrated its stadium renovation and artificial playing field addition.

Youth Service Bureau of Illinois Valley held a ribbon cutting on Aug. 22 at 308 W. State St., Ste. 475, Rockford.

GreenFire, a restaurant featuring organic food and drinks, held a ribbon cutting on Sept. 13 at 6795 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford.

KMK Media Group, Inc., held an open house on Oct. 25 at 716 N. Church St., Rockford.



Pandora held a ribbon cutting on Nov. 9 at 7200 Harrison Ave., in the upper level of CherryVale Mall, Rockford.

V2 Marketing Communications held a ribbon cutting on Nov. 14 at 220 E. State St., Ste. G, in Rockford. Merging of Velasco & Associates with Argyle Marketing.

Children’s Holiday Shoppe held a ribbon cutting on Nov. 21 at 300 N. Mulford Road at Market Place Mall, Rockford.

Cork Keg & Spirits, held a ribbon cutting on Nov. 9 at 1603 N. Alpine Road, Ste. 113 at Edgebrook Center, Rockford.

Rockford Rescue Mission Thrift Store held a ribbon cutting on Nov. 16 for its new thrift store at 2710 20th St., Rockford.

Carz R’ Us, 10208 Smythe Ave., Machesney Park, held a ribbon cutting on Nov. 30 to celebrate its new general automotive repair facility.



Rich WalshChairman

SwedishAmerican Health System

Richard ZumwaltVice Chairman

OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center

Mike Broski Immediate Past

ChairmanEntré Computer

Solutions

Patti Thayer Vice Chairman

Thayer Lighting, Inc.

Larry BridgelandTreasurerMid-City

Office Products

ExecutiveCommitteeMeet the 2013

ChamberMembershipanEffectiveBusinessStrategy

A national survey of 2,000 adults revealed that being active in a local chamber of commerce is an effective business strategy. Two-thirds of consumers believed that such companies use good business practices, were repu-table, cared about their customers, and were involved in the community. The study, conducted by The Schapiro Group, an Atlanta-based strategic consulting firm, found that consumers were:

• 49 percent more likely to think favorably and 80 per-cent more likely to purchase goods or services from small businesses they knew were chamber members.

• 10 percent more likely to think companies’ products stacked up better against the competition if they were

highly involved in their local chamber (e.g., a chamber board member),

• 68 percent more likely to eat at franchises in the next few months they knew were chamber members.

• 36 percent more likely to think favorably of insur-ance companies they knew were chamber members.

• 21 percent more likely to have a favorable opinion and 31 percent more likely to purchase their next car from auto manufacturers they knew were chamber mem-bers.

The study was commissioned by the American Chamber of Com-merce Executives (ACCE), in cooperation with the Western As-sociation of Chamber Executives.



BoardofDirectorsMeet the 2013

Ryan BraunsRockford Consulting

& Brokerage

Einar ForsmanEx-Officio

Rockford Chamber of Commerce

Mike MastroianniRock Valley College

Daniel SaavedraSaavedra Gehlhausen

Architects

Paul CallighanComEd, An Excelon

Company

Darlene FurstFurst Staffing

Paul McCannStanley Steemer

of Rockford

Henry SeyboldRockford Health

System

Joe CastrogiovanniGiovanni’s, Inc.

John GrohEx-Officio

Rkfd Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau

Patrick MorrowAlpine Bank

Patrick ShawMcGladrey LLP

J ChapmanMaverick Media

Jeff HultmanRiverside Community

Bank

Amy OttChicago Rockford

International Airport

Somchan ThatsanaphonK-I Machine Tool & Production Inc.

Rena CotsonesNorthern Illinois

University

Romero BennettBlue Sky Insurance

Agency

Michele JankeBMO Harris Bank

Mark PetersonCBL Associates

CherryVale

Tim White UTC Aerospace

Systems

Janyce FaddenEx-Officio

Rkfd Area Economic Development Council

Andrew BensonBenson Stone Company, Inc.

Penny LechtenbergHinshaw &

Culbertson LLP

Tim Rollins WilliamsMcCarthy LLP

Jennifer WoodSikich LLP



and modernization of Sportscore One and Two and the de-velopment of an indoor sports center at the former Ingersoll building in downtown Rockford, along the river. It is esti-mated that the increase in hotel/motel tax would generate $15 million for the project.

Rockford Chamber Signs Letter Supporting a STEM Visa Bill The Rockford Chamber of Commerce was one of 134

organizations nationwide to sign a letter, sent to the U.S. House of Representatives on July 11, in favor of the passage of a bipartisan STEM bill. The letter called on members of Congress to establish a green card program for outstanding foreign graduates of American universities with advanced degrees in STEM fields. Foreign students receive nearly four out of every 10 master’s degrees awarded in STEM fields and about the same percentage of all doctorates. They are in great demand by American employers, yet the United States currently selects only five percent of immigrants based on the skills and education they bring to the United States.

Rockford Chamber Signs Letter of Concern Over Potential DOD Cuts

The Rockford Chamber co-signed, along with other Illi-nois chambers, a letter sent to the U.S. House of Representa-tives expressing concern on the negative impact of the Bud-get Control Act of 2011 (BCA), known as the “fiscal cliff,” especially on defense installation and contractors. The letter supported the strong efforts to get the nation’s fiscal house in order, but expressed concern that the combination of tax increases and across-the-board spending cuts would under-mine the country’s fiscal position, not improve it. Specifi-cally, the chambers highlighted the impact of sequestration on the Department of Defense (DOD). Illinois is home to major defense installations and an extensive network of de-fense contractors, which have much at stake in additional cuts to the DOD.

Chamber Forms ROCPACThe Rockford Chamber formed its Political Action Com-

mittee, ROCPAC, in 2012. The committee planned its ac-tivities around the races for elected office and endorsed can-didates based on their advocacy in areas of key interest to the business community.

Yes to the City of Rockford Municipal Electrical AggregationDuring its meeting on Jan. 24, the Board voted to endorse

the City of Rockford municipal electrical aggregation (MEA), which authorized the City to engage in bidding out electric power supply. The benefits identified were the chance for Rockford and Winnebago County residents and small busi-nesses to save money on their electric bills, and to help the en-vironment by requiring renewable energy as part or all of the electricity supply or by funding energy efficiency programs.

No to the SB 678 Taylorville Energy Center “Tenaska Bill”

During its meeting on April 24, the Board voted to oppose SB 678, the “Tenaska Bill.” The Taylorville Energy Cen-ter was a proposed coal-fed power plant using an advanced technology called Integrated Gasification Combined-Cycle with Carbon Capture and Storage, or so-called “clean coal technology.” By Tenaska’s own estimates, power generated would cost Illinois electricity customers hundreds of mil-lions more per year than power from other sources, in par-ticular with the fall in natural gas prices.

Yes to the Rock River Environmental Services EcoRock CampusDuring its meeting on June 26, the Board voted to urge

the County of Winnebago to vote for the Proposed EcoRock Environmental Technologies Campus.

Yes to the RPS School District 205 School District ReferendumThe Board voted at a special board meeting on Sept. 14 to

endorse the Rockford Public Schools’ 10-year facility plan and bond financial structure of $139 million in general obligation funds. It encouraged members to vote yes for the RPS School District 205 School referendum. Voter support in the Nov. 6 election was 65 percent. The money generated will address school safety and energy efficiency issues, and upgrade facili-ties to modern learning spaces to improve the educational learning environment and overall student performance.

Yes to the “Reclaiming First” InitiativeThe Board voted on Oct. 23 to support the resolution sup-

porting amendments to the Illinois counties code, which will allow the county of Winnebago to impose a hotel tax of up to 2%. Funding will finance elements of the “Reclaiming First!” initiative. The $40 million project calls for the expansion

PublicPolicyInitiativesTheRockfordChamberBoardofDirectorsvotedtoopposeandsupport a number of public policies in 2012.



Einar K. ForsmanPresident & CEO

Lynette JacquesAdvertising and

Sponsorship Executive

Vee JevremovicManager of

Education Programs and Events

Diane NavickisMembership Development

Manager

Heidi GarnerExecutive Assistant

to the President & CEO

Andrew KobischkaMembership Development

Manager

Joy MoriartyV.P. Finance

Joan SundvallMembership

Contact Coordinator

Doug HessongDirector of

Publications & Technology

Cyndie LandisFinancial Assistant

Stacy MullinsDirector of Events

ChamberStaffMeet the

staff contact infoRmation

Einar K. Forsman 815-987-8100 [email protected]

Heidi Garner 815-316-4312 [email protected]

Doug Hessong 815-316-4338 [email protected]

Lynette Jacques 815-316-4317 [email protected]

Andrew Kobischka 815-316-4336 [email protected]

Cyndie Landis 815-316-4300 [email protected]

Vee Jevremovic 815-316-4337 [email protected]

Joy Moriarty 815-316-4316 [email protected]

Stacy Mullins 815-316-4302 [email protected]

Diane Navickis 815-316-4315 [email protected]

Joan Sundvall 815-316-4320 [email protected]

Rockford Chamber of Commerce Direct Line Call

815-987-8100



Celebrating 62 Years!



Absolute Fire Protection, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

The Alliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Alpine Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Aqua-Aerobic Systems, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Aramark Uniform Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Brian Thomas Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Bug Lady Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Comcast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover

Courier Meridian. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Coyle-Varland Insurance Agency, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Crescent Electric Supply Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Dickerson & Nieman Realtors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Entré Computer Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

Foltz Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Forest City Gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

Furst Staffing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Giovanni’s Restaurant & Convention Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Humana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover

Interstate Graphics Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Larson & Darby. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Leading Lawyers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Front Cover

MegaFab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

MembersAlliance Credit Union. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Northern Illinois University Conference Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Olsson Roofing Company, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39

OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Riverside Community Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Rockford Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

Saint Anthony College of Nursing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

SwedishAmerican Health System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford. . . . . . . . . . .43

Upper Iowa University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

UTC Aerospace Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39

Williams-Manny, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Woodward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

workplace. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39

AdvertisersIndexThe Rockford Chamber would like to thank its advertisers for supporting this publication.

Business Education CouncilWorks to educate members on sound business practices with monthly “Breakfast Buzz” seminars on sales, marketing, human resources and other business-related topics. Meets: Second Wednesdays, 7:30 a.m., at Rock Valley College’s Woodward Tech-nology Center.

Government Affairs CouncilThemissionoftheGovernmentAffairsCouncil istoadvocatefora strong and healthy business environment through influencing of legislative, economic and social policy. The Government Af-fairs Council brings together sectors of the business community to serveasonevoiceforbusiness.AlladvocacyeffortsmadebytheChamber’sGovernmentAffairsCouncilarefoundedonencouragingbusiness growth, promoting a strong local economy and fostering a favorable business climate of Rockford, Illinois. Meets: Second Fridays, 7:30 a.m., at Stockholm Inn.

Multicultural Business CouncilHosts monthly meetings designed to share information, discuss best practices, promote collaboration and foster business growth for minority professionals, business owners and managers. Meets:FourthTuesdays,9:30a.m.,(Locationsandtimesmayvary).

Business Women’s CouncilMeets monthly to foster networking and education for wom-en in business. Meetings are designed to help women shape their dreams, achieve professional goals and generate positive results in their lives. Meets: First Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., at Forest Hills Country Club.

Manufacturers CouncilWorks to ensure manufacturing continues to play a vital role in the Rockford Region. Hosts manufacturing-related events and works to develop and improve a range of services for existing manufactur-ers. Open to manufacturers only. Meets: Steering committee, First Wednesdays,7:30a.m.,atEIGERlab.Education&Outreachsub-committee, First Wednesdays, 7:30 a.m., various locations.

Ambassadors ClubThis is the volunteer arm of the Chamber. Wearing traditional red blazers,Ambassadorsserveasmentorstonewmembers,andareactive at grand openings, ribbon cuttings, open houses and Cham-ber events. Meets: Second Thursdays, 11:45 a.m., various loca-tions.

IGNITE - Young Professionals OrganizationConnect with local young professionals, ages 21-45, who live, work, learn and play in the Rockford region! Our mission is to attract andretainyoungprofessionalstotheRockfordregion,IGNITEen-ables young professionals to network with new friends and business contacts as well as provide leadership, volunteer and personal and professional development opportunities. Monthly programs include networking events as well as other events. Individual and corporate membership available.

Public Education CouncilThe Public Education Council focuses on assisting the public edu-cation system in meeting the needs of the business community. The council aims to identify objectives for improving Rockford’s public education system to foster business growth and retention, andtosupporttheRockfordPublicSchoolsBoardandAdministra-tion in achieving those goals.

2012 rockford chamber yearbook

Documents