2013 Rockford Chamber Community Relocation Guide

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815.987.8100 815.987.8122 fax info@rockfordchamber.com rockfordchamber.com Cover Photography Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Rockford Park District Writers Paul Anthony Arco Barb Connors

Welcome Letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Living in Rockford . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Healthy Living . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Key City Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Local Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Dining Out in Rockford . . . . . . . . . 15 Improving Education . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Design/Layout/Production Doug Hessong

A Skilled Workforce . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Advertising Sales Lynette Jacques

Bringing Home the Gold . . . . . . . . . 26

Membership Manager Diane Navickis Database Manager Joan Sundvall ABOUT THIS BOOK - The 2013 Rockford Chamber of Commerce Relocation Guide is published by the Rockford Chamber of Commerce. Information in this publication is compiled through research and in cooperation with Chamber members and other area organizations.

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 815-9878122, or e-mail at info@rockfordchamber.com. To inquire about purchasing the Rockford Chamber database call 815-987-8100. For advertising information call Lynette Jacques, Advertising and Sponsorship Executive at 815-316-4317. Š Copyright 2013 Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

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

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contents

Rockford Chamber of Commerce 308 West State Street, Suite 190 Rockford, Illinois 61101

Fun for Everyone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Links to the Past . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Rockford City Market . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Rockford, IL Sports Town . . . . . . . . . 46 Area Shopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Rockford Area Map . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Rockford Chamber Staff . . . . . . . . . 51 Advertiser’s Index . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Photos provided by: Brian Thomas Photography, CoCo Key Water Resort, Coronado Perfoming Arts Center, Paul Anthony Arco, Rock Valley College (Greg Murphy), Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (Mike Graham, Steve Pitkin), Rockford City Market, Rockford Park District, Rockford Health System, Rockford Speedway, and SwedishAmerican Health System

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welcome

Whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident, this Community Relocation Guide is packed with an abundance of information to help you better know our local healthcare systems, city services, the Chicago Rockford International Airport, General Mitchell International Airport, educational institutions, dining options and much more.

Rockford is not just about work. This is a city that loves to play. This guide showcases the world-class Rockford Park District, recently honored with the prestigious Gold Medal Award by the National Recreation and Park Association. Make time to enjoy the district’s pristine golf courses, equestrian center, Magic Waters Waterpark and the stunning Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens.

In addition, the Riverfront Museum Park is home to the Rockford Art Museum, Discovery Center Museum and Rockford Dance Company, and adjacent to the Burpee Museum of Natural History. Spend time getting familiar with downtown, which includes the Rock River, the City Market, the Coronado Performing Arts Center and the BMO Harris Bank Center – site of many concerts and sporting events, including the Rockford IceHogs, the minor league affiliate of the Chicago Blackhawks.

If outdoors is more your thing, take in a baseball game with the Rockford Aviators Professional Baseball Club, an independent team, or a soccer tournament at Sportscore One and Two. Other popular destinations include our many forest preserves of the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District, Rock Cut State Park, the Sinnissippi Recreation Path, and numerous parks and gardens located throughout the city.

If you need further information about Rockford, please visit rockfordchamber.com and gorockford.com We hope you enjoy all that Rockford has to offer.

Sincerely,

Einar Forsman

President and CEO

Rockford Chamber of Commerce

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John Groh President/CEO Rockford Area Visitors & Convention Bureau

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Living in ROCKFORD Dr. Geoffrey Van Thiel and his wife, Ashleigh, have lived in Rockford just seven months, but they already like what they see.

“The cost of living, quality of life and proximity to larger cities are all very appealing,” Van Thiel says. “It wasn’t a hard sell to convince Ashleigh that this was the place for us. It fit the bill.”

An orthopedic surgeon at Rockford Orthopedic Associates, Van Thiel has seen various parts of the country.

He grew up in Green Bay, Wis., went to college at the University of Wisconsin in Madison before moving to California, where he attended UCLA Medical School and the UCLA School of Business. He completed his residency at Rush Medical Center in Chicago.

“Real estate is a good long-term investment in Rockford,” said Steve Bois, CEO of Rockford Area Realtors.

“Buying a home is much more attainable for the average resident here than elsewhere in the country.”

“Rockford has realized the need to reinvent itself,” he added. “To me that’s not a negative thing. Now we need to find new ways to add value to the changing world economy and use the systems and engineering resources we’re steeped in to make that change.”

After training in Rockford for four months, Van Thiel decided to pass on job opportunities in California, Colorado and North Carolina, in favor of joining Rockford Orthopedic Associates. He also had a hand in recruiting others physicians to Rockford from New York, Boston and Cleveland. “We realized warmer weather wasn’t as important as was being around good people,” he says.

The Rockford area offers residents a high quality of life, and easy access to larger cities such as Chicago, Milwaukee and Madison, while maintaining the comforts of a mid-sized community. One reason the Rockford area is so “livable” is the affordability of its housing.

Rockford typically ranks in the top 15 percent of affordable markets in the country. This year, 12.7 percent of sales are from people moving to the Rockford market, many of them like the Van Thiels, due to housing affordability. continued on the next page 2013 Community Relocation Guide

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continued from the previous page But it’s much more than a cost factor that appeals to those who call Rockford home – both longtime residents and newcomers alike. Rockford is regarded for its nationally-known park district, many forest preserves, world-class museums, beautiful golf courses, theaters and other attractions, as well as leisure activities and ample learning opportunities for people of all ages.

“I’ve always found great opportunity here in Rockford.” Bois said. “There are many ways to make a living, chances to get involved and make a difference, and a tremendous park system. It’s a community comprised of very talented and energetic people, and a place where you can dream it, you can do it. It has a rich history of creating things that have changed the world.”

The Van Thiels purchased a price-friendly home in a pristine neighborhood on Rockford’s east side. “We found

the cost of living and amount of land here aren’t available in other parts of the country,” he says. “In Seattle, my brother paid double for a home. On holidays we can have family over and never worry about space. And the money we save allows us to travel. That’s a big deal to us.”

The couple gets together twice a week with new friends for dinner at Alchemy, Social Urban Bar and GreenFire restaurants. “It’s good food and good atmosphere, but not pretentious,” Van Thiel says. In addition, they enjoy concerts at the Coronado Performing Arts Center and look forward to warm summer days spent on local golf courses and nearby lakes.

The Van Thiels have put Los Angeles’ congestion and Chicago’s high rise living in their rearview mirror. “We now only go back to visit,” Van Thiel says. “Our quality of life has increased. We’re definitely here to stay.”

Population Characteristics Population Trends Rockford MSA City of Rockford Winnebago County Boone County

2010 349,431 152,871 295,266 54,165

2000 320,204 150,115 278,418 41,786

1990 286,719 139,426 252,913 30,806

Gender # % Male 171,386 49.0 Female 178,045 51.0 Age Structure 0-14 years 15-19 years 20-24 years 25-34 years 35-54 years 55-64 years 65 years and over

# 73,557 24,958 20,218 42,464 98,928 42,227 47,079

Population Growth 2000-2010 Population Change (thousands) Population Growth Rate (annual)

% 21.0 7.1 5.8 12.1 28.3 12.0 13.4

+29.2 +0.91%

Wider Population 2010 Within 25 miles 521,356 Within 50 miles 4,227,353 Within 100 miles 13,459,698 Sources: U.S. Census Bureau decennial censuses 4

Cost of Living Comparison

Composite

New York, NY

218.8

Washington, DC-VA

143.3

Boston, MA

137.7

San Diego, CA

130.6

Chicago, IL

114.7

Minneapolis, MN

110.6

Madison, WI

108.1

Denver, CO

105.0

Joliet-Will County, IL

99.9

Milwaukee-Waukesha, WI

99.3

Quad Cities

99.0

Champaign-Urbana, IL

97.0

Phoenix, AZ

96.5

Peoria, IL

92.9

Des Moines, IA

91.2

Columbus, OH

90.3

Rockford, IL

90.3

Springfield, IL

88.1

Source: Rockford Area Economic Development Council (ACCRA/ C2ER (2011 annual average). Using data provided by researchers at C2ER, key expenses in dozens of major cities are compared. Costs include housing, utilities, transportation and healthcare.)

Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

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Healthy LIVING

Quality healthcare is a top priority in the Rockford area. It’s the city’s second-largest industry and its largest employer. Thousands of residents work in one of the area’s three major health systems, which offer services to a 10-county area in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. Another major employer, the University of Illinois College of Medicine, educates doctors, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals, and also runs a system of clinics for residents.

Tara Pontarelli never had a health problem until last summer, when she tore her ACL playing soccer. Pontarelli, a scientist in the research and development laboratory at Siemens, spent four weeks in rehabilitation, working to regain mobility in her knee, before undergoing ACL reconstruction surgery three months later, which was performed by Dr. Scott Trenhaile at Rockford Orthopedic Associates. Two days later, Pontarelli was up and walking.

onto the soccer field soon. “I’m grateful that there was innovative care available to me right here in Rockford.”

“I had a good experience,” she said. “I had a lot of interaction with my physician, along with a physician assistant, who was working on my case. I felt well cared for before, during and after my surgery.”

“The quality of healthcare in Rockford is outstanding,” said Dr. Bill Gorski, President and CEO of SwedishAmerican Health System. “For someone new to Rockford, the reason to ever leave town for healthcare is minimal. There are specialty groups and physicians who would stand out in any market. Our community provides most services at a high level.”

Following surgery, Pontarelli underwent four months of physical therapy. She looks forward to getting back

When it comes to local healthcare, Rockford is fortunate to have an abundance of facilities, programs and services, and medical professionals available to local residents. Rockford has three excellent healthcare systems, a nationally-known college of medicine, community health center, and a number of specialty clinics.

Rockford Health System includes Rockford Memorial Hospital; Rockford Health Physicians with 10 clinic locations; Van Matre HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital; Visiting Nurses Association; and the Rockford Memorial Development Foundation. Rockford Memorial Hospital, the largest JCAHO-accredited hospital in the region, with 396 licensed beds, is home to a Level 1 Trauma Center and the highest-level Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, as well as the area’s only Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. Recently, RHS opened The Women’s Center at Rockford Health System, in addition to the Heart & Vascular Center and Brain & Spine Center. continued on page 7 2013 Community Relocation Guide

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continued from page 5 “We are proud that our region boasts so many high-level clinical services and we are continually benchmarking against the top programs in the nation,” says Gary Kaatz, President and CEO of Rockford Health System.

“We all have made substantial investments in key areas such as trauma; cardiology; neonatal care; cancer; pediatrics and a wide range of other specialties and subspecialties. We have a responsibility to the residents of the Rock River Valley to use our resources wisely and we take that very seriously.”

SwedishAmerican is comprised of two hospitals, 30 clinics, a home healthcare agency, a foundation and an affiliation with UW Health in northern Illinois.

The health system is home to the largest network of primary care physicians in northern Illinois, with more than 450 doctors representing about 40 different specialties. It offers 24-hour emergency care in both Rockford and Belvidere, immediate care in three locations and is home to one of the region’s most popular birthing centers. The SwedishAmerican Center For Women offers individualized education and guidance; in addition to the region’s only

heart hospital, SwedishAmerican cares for cancer patients through the Regional Cancer Center. In 2013 the center will open a free-standing outpatient cancer center in collaboration with UW Health in northeast Rockford. “Our emphasis has been to develop a large, high-quality medical group so that people can find care close to home,” said Dr. Gorski.

continued on the next page

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continued from the previous page OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center is a 254-bed tertiary care facility located on a 100-acre campus along East State Street. OSF is a regional medical center known for its Level I Trauma Center, Cardiovascular Services, including Rockford Cardiovascular Associates, Center for Cancer Care, Illinois Neurological Institute, Women’s

Rockford Health System 2400 N. Rockton Ave., Rockford 815-971-DRDR • rockfordhealthsystem.org SwedishAmerican Health System 1401 E. State St., Rockford 815-968-4400 • swedishamerican.org University of Illinois at Rockford 1601 Parkview Ave., Rockford 815-395-0600 • rockford.medicine.uic.edu OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center 5666 E. State St. 815-226-2000 • osfsaintanthony.org

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Center, OSF Specialty Clinic – Guilford Square and OSF Wound Healing Center. OSF Medical Group primary care physicians can be found at locations across Rockford, Winnebago and Boone County, including the Center for Care-Rock Cut. OSF PromptCare takes care of minor medical emergencies at two locations. OSF also includes the Saint Anthony College of Nursing and the OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center Foundation.

OSF HealthCare recently became the newest member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network. “This exclusive partnership provides the residents of our region access to another level of medical expertise and advanced care they cannot now receive without leaving the area,” says David Schertz, president and CEO of OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center. The Mayo Clinic Care Network extends Mayo Clinic’s knowledge and expertise to physcians and providers interested in working together in the best interest of their patients. OSF physicians will now be able to connect directly with Mayo Clinic specialists on questions of patient care using an electronic consulting technique called eConsults.

Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

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Key CITY SERVICES

Rockford’s Mayor’s Office is the top level of administration and policy making for the city and is the main office for residents to contact for city requests and services. The Mayor is assisted by the City Administrator, responsible for day-to-day municipal operations. The Rockford City Council of 14 council members acts with the Mayor as the legislative and policy-making body, and meets in open session each Monday at 6 p.m., in Council Chambers, second floor, City Hall, 425 E. State St. The city’s 14 wards are represented by 14 aldermen, elected to serve four-year terms all ending in the same year.

ALARM PERMITS - 815-987-8077 Rockford’s False Alarm Ordinance requires owners of monitored security systems to register their units with the city at an initial, one-time cost of $10 per system. Alarm permits are available at the payment center on the first floor of City Hall.

ROCKFORD WATER SERVICE - 815-987-5700 SANITATION - 815-965-2489 All one- to four-family residential properties are serviced by Rock River Disposal Services, Inc. The Water Department handles water and garbage service.

BUILDING PERMITS - 815-987-5550 Required for new construction, additions, structural alterations of an existing structure, demolition, or moving a structure, as well as siding, swimming pools, tents, carnivals, awnings/ canopies and signs. In multifamily and nonresidential buildings, permits also are required for change-the-type occupancy, for installing or altering equipment regulated by code, or moving a lot line that has an effect on the fire rating of exterior walls.

THE MAYOR’S OFFICE - 815-987-5590 LEGAL - 815-987-5540 Legal representative for the City of Rockford, its officers and employees. Prosecutes city ordinances and provides a variety of services including the land acquisition program, administration of liquor licenses and the coordination of special events.

LIBRARY CARDS - 815-965-7606 Library cards are free to all residents of Rockford.

HUMAN SERVICES - 815-987-5782 Mobilizes public and private resources to help persons in poverty achieve greater independence, dignity and self sufficiency. Programs fall under Head Start, Energy Services and Community Services Block Grant.

PUBLIC WORKS - 815-987-5634 Handles water resources, solid waste disposal, recycling, transportation needs, road maintenance and improvement, forestry, engineering services and parking.

POLICE - Non Emergency, 815-987-5800, Handles law enforcement, peace preservation, crime prevention, traffic control and education.

FIRE & 911 CENTER - 911, 815-987-5798 Handles fire suppression, fire prevention, public education, ambulance service including advanced life support on fire apparatus, hazardous material response team, monitoring and disaster management.

BUILDING - 815-987-5550 Ensures that the buildings people live in, work in and visit are safe. Issues permits and performs inspections to enforce city building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing and property maintenance codes for new construction and the rehabilitation and maintenance of existing buildings.

HUMAN RESOURCES - 815-967-6926

“Excellence Everywhere for Everyone” 425 E. State St. • 815-987-3024 • rockfordil.gov 2013 Community Relocation Guide

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Most Commonly Requested Services Service

Agency Telephone

Arts Council Rockford Area Arts Council 815-963-6765 Annexations Community Development 815-987-5624 Animal Control Winnebago County 815-319-4100 Attorney General’s Office State of Illinois 815-967-3883 Block Parties City of Rockford Public Works Department 815-987-5570 Bus Service Rockford Mass Transit 815-961-9000 Chamber of Commerce Rockford Chamber of Commerce 815-987-8100 Community Development City of Rockford 815-987-5600 CD/Neighborhood Standards Community Development 815-987-5566 Consumer Info - Better Business Bureau 815-963-2222 Convention and Visitors Bureau RACVB 815-963-8111 Crimestoppers 815-963-7867 Department of Children and Family Services State of Illinois 815-987-7640 Drivers License Illinois Secretary of State 815-394-0179 Drugs (to report drug activity) City of Rockford Police Narcotics Unit 815-987-5034 Economic Development Council RAEDC 815-987-8118 Elections (City of Rockford) Board of Election Commissioners 815-987-5750 Employment Security, Department of State of Illinois 815-395-6627 Employment - YouthBuild Rockford 815-963-6236 Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) Human Services Department 815-987-5711 Environmental Protection Agency State of Illinois 815-987-7760 Fire Prevention City of Rockford 815-987-5678 Garbage Collection Rock River Disposal 815-965-2489 Graffiti Hotline City of Rockford 815-961-3243 Head Start City of Rockford Human Services Department 815-987-5480 Housing Rockford Housing Authority 815-489-8500 Housing Winnebago County Housing Authority 815-963-2133 Housing Affordable Housing Coalition 815-962-2011 Human Services State of Illinois 815-987-7620 Landfill Winnebago County 815-874-7375 Library (Rockford Public Library) City of Rockford 815-965-7606 Licenses (new businesses) City of Rockford 815-987-5516 Liquor Licenses City of Rockford 815-987-5549 Neighborhood Development City of Rockford 815-967-6759 Parking Passes City of Rockford 815-987-5594 Parking Tickets (payment) City of Rockford 815-987-5712 Park District City of Rockford 815-987-8800 Police Chaplain Police Department 815-987-5889 Police Community Services Unit Police Department 815-987-5041 Police Detective Division Police Department 815-987-5878 Police Property and Evidence Police Department 815-987-5843 Police Records Police Department 815-987-5092 Police Traffic Unit Police Department 815-987-5868 Post Office 815-229-4811 Pothole Hotline City of Rockford Public Works Department 815-987-5771 Probation-Adult Winnebago County 815-987-2550

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Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

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Property Tax Information County Treasurer’s Office Property Tax Assessments Supervisor of Assessments Public Works (after-hours emergencies) City of Rockford Purchasing City of Rockford Rockford Township Salvation Army Special Events Information City of Rockford State’s Attorney Winnebago County Street Lights (burned out) Com-Ed Street Division (includes forestry) City of Rockford Public Works Department Traffic Court Winnebago County Voter Registration City of Rockford Water Emergencies (after-hours) City of Rockford Winnebago County Board Chairman Winnebago County Winnebago County Circuit Clerk Winnebago County Winnebago County Coroner Winnebago County Winnebago County Clerk Winnebago County Winnebago County Health Department Winnebago County Winnebago County Jury Duty Winnebago County Winnebago County Recorder Winnebago County Winnebago County Winnebago County Sheriff Winnebago County Treasurer Winnebago County Zoning (City) City of Rockford Zoning (County) Winnebago County

815-319-4400 815-319-4460 815-987-5712 815-987-5560 815-962-8855 815-969-7408 815-987-5590 815-319-4700 800-334-7661 815-987-5763 815-319-4500 815-987-5750 815-987-5712 815-319-4225 815-319-4500 815-319-4790 815-319-4250 815-720-4000 815-319-4880 815-319-4340 815-319-6000 815-319-4400 815-319-4350 815-987-5585

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Utilities The City of Rockford provides water and garbage service. All other utilities are provided by private companies.

The City’s Water Division is the largest municipally owned ground water system in Illinois. Call 815-987-5700 during business hours one week before you move in to set up water and garbage service.

Telecommunications AT&T 211 N. Church St., Fl. 3 Rockford, IL 800-222-0300 att.com

Forest City Communications 815-395-1800 fcitycommunications.com

Verizon Wireless 815-395-0150 815-282-3385 verizonwireless.com

Windstream 2970 Chapel Valley Rd. Fitchburg, WI 608-288-2022

Electric ComEd, An Exelon Company 123 Energy Ave. Rockford, IL 800-483-3220 comed.com

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Rock River Energy Services, Inc. 2047 S. IL Route 2 Oregon, IL 815-732-4603 rockriverenergyservices.com

TDS 9950 N. Alpine Road, Ste. 101 Machesney Park, IL 815-639-4700 tdsbusiness.com

US Signal 1123 Genoa St. Lake Geneva, WI 608-345-3644 ussignalcom.com

Gas

Television, Cable

Nicor Gas 4651 Linden Road Rockford, IL 888-642-6748 nicor.com

Comcast 4450 Kishwaukee St. Rockford, IL 866-594-1234 comcast.com

Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

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Local TRANSPORTATION Rockford is strategically located at the intersection of a number of interstate, federal and state highways. The city is well served with fixed-route and paratransit bus service and an award-winning international grade airport with passenger service to a number of North American destinations. A coach service provides transportation to and from Chicago. In 2008, bike lanes were added to many city streets and bike racks to the city buses.

Mark and Heather Bergstedt fly at least once a year when they take their three kids on vacation to Florida.

Traveling with three young children can require extra time, but not when you’re leaving from an airport located just minutes from your home. That’s why the Rockford residents choose Chicago Rockford International Airport for their vacations.

“For us, it’s the convenience factor,” says Mark. “There’s no need to leave the house five hours before your flight.

We can get there an hour before takeoff and there’s no stress or pressure involved. The parking is free and the staff is very friendly and helpful. I wish more people knew how great our airport really is.”

Located 85 miles northwest of Chicago, RFD is the 220th largest passenger airport in the country. More than 200,000 passengers depart from RFD each year, and that number is expected to rise this year, according to Amy Ott, Deputy Director of Finance and Administration.

“Your vacation starts at RFD,” she says. “It begins in our parking lot, not in the airplane or at your destination.”

RFD offers non-stop flights to nine destinations. Travelers can reach three warm-weather international destinations via Apple Vacations, including Punta Cana, Dominican Republic; Montego Bay, Jamaica, and Cancun, Mexico. Allegiant Airlines flies to Ft. Myers/Punta Gorda, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Tampa Bay, and Orlando.

Frontier Airlines offers flights to Denver, one of the top 10 leisure destinations for northern Illinois travelers. Depending on the season, as many as 31 flights depart from

RFD each week, with more to come in the near future.

“We are always looking for more destinations,” says Ott. Over the past few years, more than $180 million has been invested in infrastructure improvements and facilities at RFD, which has helped accommodate growth in passenger and cargo services. When travelers arrive at RFD, they can expect a hassle-free experience, thanks to amenities such as free parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, a brand new bar and short security waiting times.

“Customer service is important to our staff,” Ott says.

“Our goal is to treat each of our passengers as members of our own family and we have added a volunteer program called ‘Airport Ambassadors’ that assists us in meeting that objective.”

RFD is also a top U.S. cargo airport and a Midwest major transportation center. It’s home to the second-largest air hub sorting facility in UPS’s domestic division.

Every year, RFD is home to Rockford AirFest, a twoday event that attracts more than 75,000 visitors from around the region. This year, the popular festival will be held over Labor Day weekend and feature vintage warbird aircraft and civilian performance teams.

“It’s an opportunity to showcase our world-class facilities,” says Mike Dunn, RFD Executive Director. “This year’s show will give us an opportunity to recognize and honor the strong history and presence that Rockford has contributed to the aviation and aerospace industry.” continued on the next page 2013 Community Relocation Guide

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continued from the previous page Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) Airport Terminal Building 2 Airport Circle, Rockford 815-969-4000 • FlyRFD.com Located just 85 miles northwest of Chicago, Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) has made strides as the airport of choice for passengers planning trips to destinations like: Las Vegas, Orlando/ Sanford, Tampa Bay/St. Pete, the Fort Meyers Area, Myrtle Beach, Phoenix/Mesa, and Cancun. RFD offers free parking, curbside express lanes for passengers and baggage, and non-stop jet service to these popular destinations.

General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) 5300 South Howell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207 414-747-5300 • mitchellairport.com Close, affordable and convenient, Milwaukee’s General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) is your low-fare, easy travel O’Hare alternative. A quick 90 minute drive from Rockford, the same as to O’Hare, MKE is the smart choice for northern Illinois travelers. MKE’s competitive fares, reasonable parking rates and unique local amenities make travel enjoyable.

Visit “Mitchell Airport” on Facebook to learn more.

Rockford Mass Transit District 520 Mulberry St., Rockford 815-961-9000 • rmtd.org The Rockford Mass Transit District provides fixedroute and paratransit service to Rockford, Loves Park and Machesney Park. The 39 fixed-route buses operate more than 17 routes, Mondays through Saturdays, six night routes and five routes on Sundays. Fixedroute buses have bike racks. Paratransit service is a curb-to-curb service for persons with disabilities who are unable to ride the fixed route.

Van Galder Bus, A Coach USA Co. 7559 Walton St., Rockford 800-747-0994 • coachusa.com/vangalder Van Galder Bus/A Coach USA Company provides frequent, daily line-run service in a modern fleet of motorcoaches to Chicago’s O’Hare and Midway airports, and to the Amtrak station in downtown Chicago. The company has served southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois for more than 60 years. The charter department provides motorcoach service for any size group or function, including executive coaches with living-room style seating, a galley area with microwaves and coolers, AM/FM Stereo system with CD Player and DVD players with monitors. The tour & travel department offers day trips, custom tours and extended motorcoach tours.

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While RFD moves people to and from Rockford, the Rockford Mass Transit District help residents move about the city.

Mass Transit has 1.7 million riders each year.

The District offers 18 hours of service, Monday thru Friday, 13 hours of service on Saturdays and 8 hours of service on Sundays. The service area encompasses four cities – Rockford, Loves Park, Machesney Park and Belvidere – with 28 vehicles on the road during peak operating hours. From the 173 retail corridor to the North, to the Rockford airport to the South, and from Belvidere to the East to Ingersoll Golf Course to the West, RMTD offers an alternative method of transportation to anyone needing to get around in the greater Rockford region.

RMTD maintains a fleet of 41 fixed route vehicles all purchased within the last seven years and all boasting the latest in transit technologies. RMTD also provides service to those with a certified disability through its Rockford Paratransit service.

Rockford residents who need to go beyond the northern Illinois area can access Trailways Motor Coach from RMTD’s East Side Transfer Center at 725 Lyford Road. An a.m. dispatch and a p.m. dispatch can take residents West into Iowa or East to Chicago, where they can hook up with Trailways routes taking them wherever they need to go.

“People realize the value of using mass transit,” said Lisa Brown, marketing and public relations specialist. “We provide a transportation alternative. Residents who are new to Rockford can use RMTD as a way to get acquainted with the community in a safe and affordable environment.”

Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

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Dining Out IN ROCKFORD

By his own estimation, Doug Halberstadt dines out frequently. “About 95 percent of the time,” says the Rockford printer.

trict Bar and Grill. “I like the feel of downtown Rockford,” he says. “Since I live and work nearby, I try to support local establishments.”

Halberstadt and his 12-year-old daughter, Meredith, enjoy a variety of local residents. From barbecue to Italian, the Halberstadts appreciate a good dining experience.

But it also depends on the company he keeps. With his daughter, Halberstadt prefers a family-friendly locale.

Meeting up with friends, he gravitates towards quieter spots ideal for endless conversation. “The only type of place I don’t enjoy is where it’s so loud you can’t hear yourself talk.”

“Rockford is a great restaurant town,” he says. “There are many restaurants that offer good value and affordable prices. People new to the area will find that local restaurants aren’t as expensive as Chicago and Madison, but the quality and portions are just as good.”

Living not far from downtown, Halberstadt heads to nearby restaurants such as Capri Restaurant and Dis-

So, what are you hungry for? Italian, Mexican, Thai, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Swedish, Indian? Do you prefer vegetarian or traditional American? Do you like burgers, fish, steaks, appetizers, pizzas, sushi, sandwiches, or maybe just a salad? What’s it going to be tonight continued on the next page 2013 Community Relocation Guide

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continued from the previous page - casual, elegant, family-style, buffet, or maybe a quick bite at a fast food restaurant?

So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy the company of good family and friends any day of the week.

The Rockford area has a wide selection of dining options.

From dining downtown along the Rock River, to dining located conveniently near one of the area’s many shopping districts, there’s a unique experience waiting for you.

Here are some of our favorites...

Abreo Restaurant 515 E State St Rockford, IL 61104 (815) 968-9463 www.abreorockford.com Aunt Mary’s Restaurant 4431 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 397-6461 www.auntmarysrestaurant.com Beefaroo, Inc. 6364 Sebring Way Loves Park, IL 61111 (815) 637-1008 www.beefaroo.com Behr Den Restaurant 1100 Seminary St Rockford, IL 61104 (815) 987-2600 www.behrim.com Best Events Hospitality Group 1741 Adel St Janesville, WI 53546 (815) 516-8302 www.besteventsrockford.com Buffalo Wild Wings 6275 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 397-5649 www.buffalowildwings.com Capri Restaurant, Inc. 313 E State St Rockford, IL 61104 (815) 965-6341 www.caprirockford.com

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Chili’s Grill & Bar 1510 West Lane Rd Machesney Park, IL 61115 (815) 282-8805 Ciao Bella Ristorante 6500 E Riverside Blvd Loves Park, IL 61111 (815) 654-9900 Cliffbreakers Riverside Resort 700 W Riverside Blvd Rockford, IL 61103 (815) 282-3033 www.cliffbreakers.com Cronies Grill 9032 N 2nd St Machesney Park, IL 61115 (815) 282-2262 www.croniesgrill.com Culver’s Restaurant 5610 Wansford Way Rockford, IL 61109 (815) 398-9938 District Bar & Grill 205 W State St Rockford, IL 61101 (815) 977-4524 www.districtdowntown.com Egg Harbor Cafe 1603 N Alpine Rd Ste 121 Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 399-2650 www.eggharborcafe.com

Fortune Hibachi & Grill Buffet 5456 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 399-7888 www.facebook.com/pages/Fortune-HibachiGrill-Buffet/191223694346356 Franchesco’s Ristorante 7128 Spring Creek Rd Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 229-0800 www.franchescos.com Giordano’s 333 Executive Pkwy Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 398-5700 www.giordanos.com Giovanni’s, Inc. 610 N Bell School Rd Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 398-6411 www.giodine.com Granite City Food & Brewery 7140 Harrison Ave Rockford, IL 61112 (815) 332-7070 www.gcfb.com GreenFire 6795 E Riverside Blvd Rockford, IL 61114 (815) 316-3473 www.facebook.com/greenfire.il

Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

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Hoffman House 7550 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 397-5800 hoffmanhouserockford.com Hooters of Rockford 6904 Argus Dr Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 229-0539 www.hooters.com JMK Nippon Restaurant 2551 N Perryville Rd Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 877-0505

Napoli Pizza & Catering 6560 N Alpine Rd Loves Park, IL 61111 (815) 877-9888 8289 Burden Rd Machesney Park, IL 61115 (815) 633-4800 www.napolipizzaandpasta.com Old Chicago Restaurant 6280 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 227-4040 www.oldchicago.com

Jersey Mike’s 6284 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 226-0118

The Olive Garden Italian Restaurant 6367 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 399-3176 www.olivegarden.com

1513 West Lane Rd Unit C Machesney Park, IL 61115 (815) 633-4200 www.jerseymikes.com

Panino’s Restaurant 2725 N Main St Rockford, IL 61103 (815) 636-0036

Johnny Pamcakes 3700 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 229-7415 www.johnnypamcakes.com

5403 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 227-9200 www.paninosofrockford.com

Lone Star Steakhouse 6690 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 226-1122 www.lonestarsteakhouse.com Maciano’s Pizza - Columbia Parkway 5801 Columbia Pkwy Unit 101 Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 227-5577 6746 Broadcast Pkwy Loves Park, IL 61111 (815) 633-7500 www.macianos.com Meg’s Daily Grind 1141 N Alpine Rd Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 316-7669 www.megs-daily-grind.com

Pig Minds Brewing Co. Inc. 4080 Steele Dr Machesney Park, IL 61115 (779) 423-2147 www.pigmindsbrewing.com Pizza Hut (Rockford Pizza Inc.) 1533 West Lane Rd Machesney Park, IL 61115 (815) 639-1111 3329 S 11th St Rockford, IL 61109 (815) 229-2929 3748 N Main St Rockford, IL 61103 (815) 963-6363 2560 S Alpine Rd Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 399-0128 www.pizzahut.com

Prairie Street Brewhouse 200 Prairie St Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 277-9427 www.psbrewhouse.com Der Rathskeller 1132 Auburn St Rockford, IL 61103 (815) 962-2922 www.derrathskeller.net Red Mango 6876 Spring Creek Rd Ste 118 Rockford, IL 61114 (815) 282-1020 1093 W Lane Rd Machesney Park, IL 61115 (815) 885-8574 www.redmangousa.com Sam’s Ristorante 6075 E Riverside Blvd Rockford, IL 61101 (815) 877-2127 www.samsristorante.com Shogun Japanese Restaurant Izakoya 88 293 Executive Pkwy Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 394-0007 www.shogunofrockford.com Stockholm Inn 2420 Charles St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 397-3534 www.stockholminn.com Stumpy’s Pub 5801 Columbia Pkwy Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 316-1225 www.stumpyspub.com Sweet Ambrosia 115 7th St Ste 201 Rockford, IL 61104 (815) 962-9185 www.sweetambrosia.us

continued on the next page

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continued from the previous page TGI Friday’s 2408 Perryville Rd Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 332-5355 Taco John’s 3007 N Main St Rockford, IL 61103 (815) 282-5171 3269 S Alpine Rd Rockford, IL 61109 (779) 386-0832 www.tacojohns.com

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Thunder Bay Grille 7652 Potawatomi Tr Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 397-4800 www.thunderbaygrille.com

Wendy’s Old Fashioned Hamburgers (K & K Foods Inc.) 50 W Douglas St Ste 1101 Freeport, IL 61032 (815) 235-7515

Vito’s Ristorante, Inc. 1620 N Bell School Rd Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 312-5080 www.vitosristorante.net

Wired Café 414 E State St Rockford, IL 61104 (815) 316-2524 www.wiredcaferockford.com

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Improving EDUCATION Bridget French’s 9-year-old son, Evan, is a third grader at Washington Academy School. Like many Rockford public schools, Washington is old and in rough shape.

“The school has a shortage of electrical outlets and some of the carpet is held together by duct tape,” French says.

“Only a certain number of students can use computers at one time due to a lack of outlets. It’s not conducive for learning.”

Not for long.

Over the next 10 years, the Rockford Public Schools will invest $211 million on facility improvements – including $55 million over the next 12 months – for everything from parking lot paving to athletic facility upgrades. The first phase, expected to cost $139 million, includes additions at nine buildings.

“Many of our facilities have leaky windows that are 90 years old,” says Todd Schmidt, chief operations officer.

“We have boilers that are 80 years old and aren’t very energy efficient. When we install new mechanical systems, we’re going to save on our energy consumption and put that money back into the schools.”

Rockford Public School District 205 encompasses approximately 165 square miles in Winnebago and Boone

New to the District?

For enrollment, contact: Rockford Public Schools Family Resource Center Roosevelt Community Education Center, Room 124 978 Haskell Ave. 815-967-8070

counties. It’s the third largest school district in Illinois and the largest employer in the Rockford region. The school district serves more than 28,000 pre-K to grade 12 students. The District’s buildings also are used by community groups for meetings, events and recreation.

“Aesthetics are huge,” says newly-appointed superintendent Dr. Ehren Jarrett. “Before you get into the learning facility, the first things people see at a school are the sidewalks, the parking lot, and building facade.

We need safe and welcoming learning environments, a place that families can be proud of for their students.”

The improvements impact 46 facilities, including early childhood, elementary, middle, high and alternative schools. A steering committee, consisting of community members, parents, teachers and staff, was formed as an advisory group. The group met to review data, tour facilities, hear from staff and see the need first-hand. They also held 12 community meetings and invited feedback from nearly 10,000 surveys. The committee developed a detailed facilities plan to address long-deferred maintenance while making existing facilities functional. continued on the next page 2013 Community Relocation Guide

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continued from the previous page “We are really focused on creating a 21st century learning environment for all of our schools,” says Jarrett.

“People who move into the community in the next three to five years can expect improvements in every building, if not immediately, within a short amount of time. The need is clearly there.”

One of the first projects is an 80,000 square-foot addition to Auburn High School that will include an indoor track and four basketball courts. Other improvements are classroom and auditorium upgrades, and a number of infrastructure improvements such as plumbing, electrical, and mechanical upgrades and repairs. Cafeterias in all 31 elementary schools will also receive noticeable attention.

The major overhaul started last year when artificial turf was installed and bleachers were upgraded at the football stadiums at both Auburn and Guilford high schools.

“Our goal is to not only serve our schools, but serve the larger community and our taxpayers,” Jarrett says. “We have taken an asset that was only used once a week, and now they’re used for physical education classes, middle school and junior tackle football, park district tournaments and community rentals. These improvements are going to have a huge impact on how we can better utilize our existing space to transform the overall learning environment.”

Parents like Bridget French are also excited about the changes.

“This is the first time in a really long time that everyone is working together for the good of the school district,” she says. “The school district, teacher’s union and the community are coming together and saying ‘we care what’s best for the kids.’ I believe we’re headed in the right direction.”

Public Education THEME SCHOOLS/SPECIAL PROGRAMS Barbour Language Academy - Barbour Language Academy is the only dual-language immersion school in the Rockford Public Schools. The school, located at 1506 Clover Ave., offers programming for kindergarten through eighth grade. The dual-language immersion program evenly mixes predominantly English-speaking students with predominantly Spanish-speaking students in one classroom. All students will learn to read, write, listen and speak in Spanish and English.

Montessori School (elementary) - In the Montessori classroom, students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own education. In a prepared environment with a trained Montessori teacher, children may move freely around the room selecting materials needed to carry out the child’s plan.

Creative & Performing Arts (CPAC) - Gifted education identifies and nurtures student potential through the development of specialized curriculum offerings modified and adapted to meet the unique learning styles, learning rates, interests, abilities and needs of gifted students.

Renaissance Academic Gifted - Gifted education identifies and nurtures student potential through the development of specialized curriculum offerings modified and adapted to meet the unique learning styles, learning rates, interests, abilities and needs of gifted students.

Ellis Arts Academy (elementary) - Ellis Arts Academy celebrates the unique spirit of children and builds successful and caring citizens through the development of artistic talents and academic strengths.

Wilson Aspire - This special education center serves students classified as multiply challenged. The learning program is focused on an integrated approach that incorporates various therapies such as occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and vision therapy, and recreational and leisure programs.

Fresh Start/Fresh View Programs - Fresh Start and Fresh View Programs address each student’s behavior and aca-

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demic needs in a pro-active manner, so that each student, regardless of functioning level, grade placement or age, will be able to have a reasonable opportunity for success in school and in the community.

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CHILDHOOD EDUCATION Early Childhood Program: provides pre-K classes for children ages 3 to 5. Classes are located in elementary schools, Fairview Early Childhood Center, Dennis Early Education Center, Roosevelt Community Education Center, Summerdale and five childcare centers located throughout the city. Program services include in-home child development/case management services for parents and children, ages birth to three years old. These services help families identify family and child goals and educational and community resources to aid them in meeting identified goals.

Elementary Schools: Beyer, Bloom, Brookview, Carlson, Cherry Valley, Conklin, Froberg, Gregory, Haskell, Hillman, Johnson, King, Kishwaukee, Lathrop, Lewis Lemon, Marsh, McIntosh, Nashold, Nelson, Riverdahl, Rolling Green, Spring Creek, Stiles, Summerdale, Thompson, Walker, Welsh, West View, White Swan and Whitehead.

Middle Schools: Eisenhower, Flinn, Kennedy, Lincoln, RESA and West High Schools: Auburn, East, Guilford, Jefferson and Roosevelt CHARTER SCHOOLS RockfordCharterSchools.com Charter public schools are privately-operated, publicallyfunded schools of choice open to any student in Rockford Public Schools District 205. They are required to meet state academic standards, but are allowed to operate free from many local district regulations that apply to other

public schools, allowing for greater academic flexibility and innovation in the classroom. Charter public schools administer the same state standardized tests as traditional public schools and are held accountable to the results required by their charter agreement.

Galapagos Rockford Charter School 815-708-7946 • galapagoscharter.org Galapagos Rockford Charter School is dedicated to preparing students to be responsible, productive, collegeeducated adults who will prosper in the global economy.

During the 2009-10 school year, Galapagos serves students in grades K-3 and will add an additional grade each year as students advance.

Legacy Academy of Excellence 815-961-1100 • comped-csn.org compedservices@aol.com The Legacy Academy of Excellence focuses on lofty standards, extensively trained staff, well researched instructional strategies, high levels of accountability for all stakeholders and the combined efforts of the school, its parents and the community. It believes all students can routinely attain the highest levels of academic excellence.

During the 2009-10 school year, Legacy serves students in grades K-5 and adds an additional grade each year as students advance.

CICS Rockford Charter School (CRCS) 815-316-0093 • chicagointl.org In February, 2009, the Rockford School Board approved a resolution authorizing CRCS to open for the 2010-2011 school year. It is located at the Patriot’s Gateway Center at 615 S. 5th St., and will focus on providing an attractive and rigorous college-preparatory education that meets the needs of today’s student. continued on the next page

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continued from the previous page

Rockford Chamber Educational Institutions CICS Rockford Charter School Organization 615 S Fifth St Rockford, IL 61104 (815) 316-0093 www.chicagointl.org

Montessori Private Academy 8101 Sayer Rd Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 332-8101 www.montessoriprivateacademy.com

Galapagos Rockford Charter School 2605 School St Rockford, IL 61101 (815) 708-7946 www.galapagoscharter.org

Regional Office of Education 300 Heart Blvd Loves Park, IL 61111 (815) 636-3060 www.4roe.org

H.O.L.D. (Heart of Love Development) 4747 W Riverside Blvd Rockford, IL 61101 (815) 703-8394

Rockford Christian Schools 1401 N Bell School Rd Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 391-8000 www.rockfordchristian.org

Huntington Learning Center 5301 E State St Ste 104 Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 395-1011 www.rockford.huntingtonhelps.com Keith Country Day School 1 Jacoby Pl Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 399-8823 www.keithschool.com Lydia Home - Rockford 223 S Winnebago St 3rd Fl Rockford, IL 61102 (815) 966-0039 www.lydiarockford.org

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Rockford Lutheran School 3411 N Alpine Rd Rockford, IL 61114 (815) 877-9551 www.rockfordlutheran.org Rockford Public Schools, District #205 501 Seventh St Rockford, IL 61104 (815) 966-3101 www.rps205.com

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Rockford Chamber Higher Educational Institutions Columbia College 2998 W Pearl City Rd Freeport, IL 61032 (815) 599-3585 www.ccis.edu

Rock Valley College 3301 N Mulford Rd Rockford, IL 61114 (815) 921-7821 www.rockvalleycollege.edu

Concordia University of Wisconsin 2040 Sutler Ave Beloit, WI 53511 (608) 361-1830 www.cuw.edu/beloit

Rockford Career College 1130 S Alpine Rd Ste 100 Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 965-8616 www.rockfordcareercollege.edu

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 7479 Walton St Ste 4 Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 904-6532 www.erau.edu/rockford

Rockford College 5050 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 226-4000 www.rockford.edu

Judson University 1055 Featherstone Rd Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 399-3500 www.judsonforadults.com

Saint Anthony College of Nursing 5658 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 395-5091 www.sacn.edu

Keller Graduate School of Management and DeVry University 2250 Point Blvd Ste 250 Elgin, IL 60123 (847) 649-3980 www.devry.edu

University of Illinois Extension Winnebago County 1040 N 2nd St #40 Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 986-4357 web.extension.illinois.edu/jsw

Northern Illinois University NIU - Rockford, 8500 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 753-0835 www.niu.edu

University of Illinois Rockford, A UIC Health Sciences Campus 1601 Parkview Ave Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 395-0600 www.rockford.medicine.uic.edu

OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center 5666 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 226-2000 www.osfsaintanthony.org Rasmussen College 6000 E State St 4th Fl Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 316-4800 www.rasmussen.edu

Upper Iowa University - Rockford Center 1161 Tebala Blvd Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 332-1414 www.uiu.edu

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A Skilled WORKFORCE Largest Area Employers Employer (Industry)

Employees

Chrysler (Automotive) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,500 Rockford Public Schools (Education) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,730 Rockford Health System (Healthcare) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,000 SwedishAmerican Health System (Healthcare) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,988 UTC Aerospace Systems (Aircraft Components) . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,200 OSF Healthcare (Healthcare) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,800 Rockford Park District (Government) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,739 Winnebago County (Government) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,731 Wal-Mart Stores (Retail) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,611 Woodward (Governors & Auxiliary Equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,400 Schnucks (Grocery Stores) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,300 UPS (Parcel Sorting Hub) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,200 City of Rockford (Government) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,122 AndersonBrecon (Pharmaceutical Packaging) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,100 Harlem Consolidated Schools (Education) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,099 Belvidere Community Schools 100 (Education) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 967 Lowe’s (Distribution Center, Retail Stores) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 900 Mondelez International (Chewing Gum) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850 NCO Group (Telemarketing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800 Taylor Co (Ice Cream Machines) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 725

Income Characteristics Median Household Income

$45,457

Mean Household Income

$57,629

Per Capita Personal Income

$22,254

Rockford is the center of manufacturing, healthcare, employment and commerce for the more than 300,000 residents who live in or near its borders. The area’s top employers come from a variety of industries. The three major healthcare systems and the college of medicine employ a large number of the area’s private sector employees. Rockford remains, as in the past, an important manufacturing town, with hundreds of companies as major employers and producers. It’s a world leader in the manufacture of machine tools and auto parts and increasingly is recognized as an important center for aerospace components. Retail makes up another important sector. Over the years, Rockford has diversified itself and now is home to a broader set of enterprises, including distribution centers and call center/office operations.

Number Employed in the Rockford Area: 148,898 Mean Travel Time to Work: 20.6 minutes

Employment Resources

Visit the Rockford Chamber’s Business Directory at rockfordchamber.com, for a listing of employment agencies and services.

The WorkForce Connection, an Illinois workNet Center “One-stop shop” for employers to find workers and job-seekers to receive training, education and employment services.

Rockford Office 303 N. Main St. 815-395-6600; TTY 815-966-2436 Belvidere Office 998 Belvidere Road 815-547-9616; TTY 815-547-0253 Hotline 815-395-6608 theworkforceconnection.org

Source: Company & media reports / US Census Bureau 2010 ACS Profile

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Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

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Bringing Home THE GOLD Rockford Park District Brings Home the Gold Every year, more than 9 million visitors take advantage of recreational programs and services provided by the Rockford Park District, including Jim and Denise Noe and their two sons. During the summer, they visit Magic Waters Waterpark and the five Rockford Park District golf courses. On weeknights, the family packs a picnic basket and heads to the Music in the Park, a series of free concerts performed at the band shell in Sinnissippi Park.

“The activities and the programs are fun and affordable,” says Denise. “I can’t think of a better way for my family to spend time together, than at a Park District event or program.”

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The Noes aren’t the only ones who feel that way about the Park District. Last fall, the District received the prestigious 2012 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation from the National Recreation and Park Association during the NRPA’s Annual Congress & Exposition in Anaheim, CA. “This is a major accomplishment not just for the Rockford Park District, but for the entire community,” says Executive Director Tim Dimke. “The Rockford Park District is now known as the best park district in the nation. Our citizens deserve the best, and it is one of our highest priorities that residents have exceptional parks and recreation facilities, services, and programs at a reasonable cost. This achievement is a testament of the great leadership by the

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park board, commitment of the district’s team members, valuable partners and involved citizens that believe in the impact that parks and recreation have in their lives.”

The Gold Medal Award honors park and recreation agencies throughout the country that demonstrate excellence in long-range planning, resource management, volunteerism, environmental stewardship, program development, professional development, and agency recognition. Each agency is judged on its ability to address the needs of those it serves through the collective energies of citizens, staff, and elected officials.

“Rockford residents are in love with their parks,” says John Groh, president and CEO of the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. “The district has been a great steward of the community’s resources and in turn has provided great neighborhood parks, gardens, museums, sports complexes and programming that our residents enjoy. The national award is validation of what we’ve known locally for years—the Rockford Park District is one of our community’s finest organizations and assets and in turn is a national model of excellence.”

The Rockford Park District last won this honor in 1989, and was selected as a finalist in 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, and 2011. The District was awarded a second National Gold Medal for Special Recreation in 1995. A panel of five park and recreation professionals reviews and judges all application materials, and judges are chosen for their considerable experience and knowledge in parks and recreation on both local and national levels.

In May, the NRPA notified the Rockford Park District of the distinction of being chosen as one of four national

finalists for the 2012 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management for the population category of 100,000 to 250,000. The other finalists for the Class II population category were City of Round Rock Parks and Recreation Department, Texas; Conejo Recreation and Park District, California, and South Suburban Park and Recreation District, Colorado.

“It was an exciting moment to hear our name called,” says Board President Jack Armstrong. “Winning the NRPA’s National Gold Medal Award just means more opportunities to showcase the many wonderful programs, facilities, and people within the Rockford Park District. The award means other agencies look to us as a leader, knowing that we have excellent park and recreation programs and premier facilities.” continued on the next page

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continued from the previous page Rockford Park District 401 S. Main St., Rockford 815-987-8800/888-871-6171(TTY) • rockfordparkdistrict.org The Rockford Park District is nationally recognized as one of the best park and recreation systems in the United States, twice awarded the National Gold Medal for Excellence by the National Recreation and Parks Association, and accredited as a Distinguished Agency by the Illinois Association of Park Districts. With abundant recreational facilities, you will discover enjoyment of life because of these terrific assets in our community, not often found in a city our size. There are golf courses, nationally-recognized museums and 175 parks in the system, including many neighborhood parks located within easy walking distance from most homes. You will find terrific access and enjoyment of the Rock River, one of our community’s greatest assets, with multiple boat launches, public docks and the Rock River Recreation Path. For walkers, runners, bicyclists, dog walkers, there are more than 30 miles of paved recreational paths throughout the community and neighborhood parks.

The Park District offers specialty parks for many outdoor interests, including BMX racing, dog parks, soft indoor playgrounds, disc golf courses, skate parks and a radio controlled plane park, Pickleball courts, and lawn sports.

The Park District has an award-winning and highly acclaimed Therapeutic Recreation Department, making facilities, programs, and services accessible to all participants, with adapted sports and veterans programs.

It oversees public recreation facilities for virtually every kind of indoor and outdoor enthusiast. Environmental experiences are found at the Atwood Center, figure skating and hockey abound at the ice arenas, there are multiple outdoor tennis courts and swimming pools, excursion rides on the Forest City Queen Riverboat and Trolley

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Car 36, free concerts at the Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, and much more.

Byron Forest Preserve District 7993 North River Road, Byron, IL 815-234-8535 • byronforestpreserve.com The Byron Forest Preserve District is located on the rolling hills along the Rock River in Byron, Illinois. With many acres of prairie and woodlands, you don’t want to miss this beautiful setting during all seasons! You can enjoy these natural areas by walking our trails, using one of our picnic shelters, playing on the playground, going horseback riding, playing a round of golf, or just looking out over the prairie from the windows at the Jarrett Prairie Center.

The Byron Forest Preserve has a strong belief in preservation, conservation, and restoration of our natural lands. Our agency is devoted to purchasing and managing natural areas to increase biodiversity along with conserving rare animals and plants of our region.

The mission of the Byron Forest Preserve District is to provide for Preservation of open space/natural resources, provide Education concerning our natural environment/heritage, and provide Recreation opportunities and enterprise operations that are consistent with District goals.

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Fun for EVERYONE

Rockford is rich in cultural resources and offers a variety of entertaining and educational destinations, including numerous professional performance groups and facilities, museums and art galleries.

Museums Burpee Museum of Natural History 737 N. Main St., Rockford 815-965-3433 burpee.org Burpee is home to the famous dinosaur, Jane, a restored 21-foot skeleton of a juvenile Tyrannosaurus rex who lived and died 66 million years ago in the Cretaceous Period.

Burpee volunteers found Jane, and a number of other di-

nosaur skeletons in southeastern Montana. Kids of all ages will love visiting Jane: Diary of a Dinosaur; and other topnotch exhibits like the Children’s Gallery, the Carboniferous Coal Forest, the Ordovician Sea, Geoscience, First People and Windows to Wilderness: Exploring Nature in the Rock River Valley. Don’t forget to make a stop at the Dean Olson Specimen Viewing Lab for a window into how the museum works. Homer, the museum’s sub-adult Triceratops is found in and just outside the lab.

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Discovery Center Museum in Riverfront Museum Park 711 N. Main St., Rockford 815-963-6769 discoverycentermuseum.org Ranked one of the “12 Best Children’s Museums In The U.S.” by Forbes magazine, Discovery Center is a science adventure right at your fingertips with more than 250 interactive exhibits to satisfy any curiosity.

There are many exhibits to explore with Get the Message, Team Up! Explore Science & Sports, Discovery Center Planetarium, Tot Spot, Power House, Wild Weather, Simple Machines, Color & Light, Math & Puzzles, Body Shop, Art Studio, the WIFR Kids News Studio and Robotics Lab. Don’t forget to make a stop at Rock River Discovery Park, the nation’s first community-built outdoor science park, which reopened with the museum’s expansion in May, 2010.

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Rockford Art Museum in Riverfront Museum Park 711 N. Main St., Rockford 815-968-2787 rockfordartmuseum.org Located in the heart of downtown Rockford and Illinois’ third-largest museum, Rockford Art Museum houses 17,000 square feet of exhibition space in three galleries.

The permanent collection is a rotating display of more than 1,500 pieces representing Modern and Contemporary American Art, American Masters from 1830-1940, Photography, Contemporary Glass Art, and Outsider Art. Local, national and international artists are represented with a special emphasis on local and Chicago artists. The museum is home to the annual Greenwich Village Art Fair and the Rockford Midwestern juried art exhibition.

Ethnic Heritage Museum 1129 S. Main St., Rockford 815-962-7402 ethnicheritagemuseum.org Ethnic Heritage Museum, located in a home built in 1850, celebrates the history of six nationalities that helped shape the culture of Rockford’s southeast side.

In the heart of the old water power district, the museum houses African-American, Irish, Italian, Lithuanian, Polish and Hispanic galleries. History buffs will appreciate the scrapbook of newspaper clippings on Rockford’s west side residents beginning in the 1940s, and the book, That Men Know So Little About Me, about well known, local African-Americans in the Rockford area.

Lockwood Pioneer Scuba Diving Museum 7307 N. Alpine Road, Loves Park 815-633-6969 lockwoodmuseum.com Located in the Lighthouse Point Retail Center, the 2,000-square-foot museum houses vintage scuba and World War II hardhat diving equipment and shipwreck artifacts. The museum honors scuba diving pioneer James E. Lockwood of Racine, Wis. After moving to Rockford, Lockwood founded Lockwood Oil Co. service stations, and in 1938 invented a diving lung as well as an underwater housing for the Bell & Howell camera used during the 1930s filming of the original Tarzan movies.

Midway Village Museum, Rockford’s History Museum 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford 815-397-9112 midwayvillage.com Midway Village Museum is a true destination for turn-ofthe-century enthusiasts. Take a walk through yesteryear in a picturesque Victorian village set on 136 acres, with 24 historic buildings, artifacts and 19th century gardens.

Costumed interpreters give seasonal guided tours. The museum features galleries on Rockford history, including The Old Dolls’ House, The Girls of Summer on the Rockford Peaches, Queen City of the Prairies, and The Missing Link: Socks, Monkeys and Rockford’s Industrial Past. The Flight exhibit showcases Rockford’s pioneer aviators. See the Old Millhouse at Severin Lake -- a working replica of an operating water-powered machine shop.

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Festival, All Hallows Eve, the Sock Monkey Madness Festival and 1900 America Chautauqua.

Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum 411 Kent St., Rockford 815-964-2424 tinkercottage.com Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum is one of only two dozen Victorian Swiss-style homes left standing in the United States and a rare example of Victorian “exotic” architecture. Built in 1865 by early Rockford industrialist Robert H. Tinker, the cottage tells the story of the family that lived there through a rare collection of original furnishings, photos, diaries and household belongings. Visitors can walk across the restored swinging bridge that Tinker built over Kent Creek to connect his estate with his soonto-be wife’s, Mary Manny. Take guided tours through the Victorian Rose Garden, the Tinker Railroad Garden and the Tinker grounds. The museum plays host to the region’s only croquet tournament, Mallet Mayhem. In December, enjoy a Victorian Christmas.

and Japanese landscape designer Hoichi Kurisu, Anderson Japanese Gardens lies on a 14-acre site in the heart of Rockford and features two distinct gardens. The formal Japanese garden is in the style of the Kamakura period, 1185 to 1333 A.D., and the Guest House, Teahouse, and machiai are 16th century Sukiya-style architecture. The Garden of Reflection is a contemporary international garden with a strong Japanese influence.

Come for serenity and reflection at the gardens, stay for the unique finds at the gift shop.

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden 2715 S. Main St., Rockford 815-965-8146 klehm.org Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden has more than 155 acres filled with rare and unusual trees and shrubs, plus the Midwest’s most vigorous evergreen collection and the nation’s most extensive Azalea collection. As a “living

City of Gardens Anderson Japanese Gardens 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford 815-229-9390 andersongardens.org You might not think that the #1 ranked Japanese garden in North America would be in Illinois, but it is, according to Sukiya Living, a premier Japanese garden journal. Built by Rockford industrialist John Anderson

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museum,” there’s something new every season from the majestic colors of fall, to the hundreds of blooming crabapple trees in spring, to the butterfly gardens in summer, to the snow-covered evergreens in winter. There’s a 1.8mile, handicapped-accessible paved path going through the heart of the arboretum with many secondary, chipped trails. View the Fountain Garden, the Nancy Olson Children’s Garden, the Demonstration Gardens, the Prehistoric Garden, the Hosta Garden, the Grass Garden, the Butterfly Garden and the Daylily Garden. Tour the Visitor Center with a library, exhibition gallery, information center, classroom and the Flowering Magnolia gift shop.

Water Fun CoCo Key Water Resort at Clock Tower Resort & Conference Center 7801 E. State St., Rockford 815-398-6000 cocokeywaterresort.com There are many months of cold weather in the Midwest.

Rockford’s first major indoor waterpark at a warm 84 degrees is just the solution for the cold weather blues. Located at the Clock Tower Resort & Conference Center, CoCo Key is a fun-filled getaway any time of year with a Key West tropics theme and 60,000 square feet of water resort attractions, three thrilling water slides, an activity pool, outdoor splash pad, snack bar, lounge, arcade, cabanas, bar, private function and birthday party spaces.

Enjoy the Barracuda Blast two-person raft slide – an adventure river, and the Palm Grotto indoor/outdoor spa.

Kids will love Parrot’s Perch interactive play island with a 300-gallon tipping bucket and the “Dip-In Theatre” – a shallow pool with a constant display of movies and cartoons. This fun-filled attraction was rated as one of Nick Jr. Family Magazine’s “Top 7 Trips of ’07.”

SeaSerpent and Bonzai, rising five stories above the park.

Breaker Beach is everyone’s favorite wavepool, the largest in Illinois. For relaxation, float down SPLASHmagic River, a 1,200-foot-long river pool. For kids, nothing’s more fun than Splash Magic Island’s Castaway Adventure, a 50foot tall interactive water complex with a 1,000-gallon water bucket that tips and sends water splashing everywhere.

For the youngest, there’s Little Lagoon.

Magic Waters Waterpark 7820 N. CherryVale Blvd., Cherry Valley 815-96-MAGIC magicwaterswaterpark.com Bring the whole family to Illinois’ premier water park for waves of FUN! For the adventurous, ride the Abyss, a dark tunnel tube five stories above the park. Board a two-person raft and ride Splash Blaster, rising a dizzying 80 feet above Magic Waters and plunging 35 feet over the edge. Enjoy some of the Midwest’s best body slides, the Keelhauler, continued on the next page 2013 Community Relocation Guide

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Unique Attractions Blackhawk Farms Raceway 15538 Prairie Road, South Beloit 815-389-2000 blackhawkfarms.com This 1.95-mile private circuit racetrack is located on a 219-acre farm on the border between Wisconsin and Illinois. Established in the mid 1960s, the track is a favorite of SCCA, Midwestern Council, VSCDA, SVRA and other local and national racing organizations. Special events include Automotive Track Days for all experience levels to learn the fundamentals of track driving, and Motorcycle Track Days which gives street, sport and advanced riders the optimum environment to ride their motorcycles on a world-class race track facility.

Byron Forest Preserve/Jarrett Prairie Center 7993 N. River Road, Byron 815-234-8535 byronforestpreserve.com Formed in 1980 to preserve a small prairie remnant and to reestablish the plant and wildlife once flourishing at the site, Byron Forest Preserve has grown to nearly 900 acres. It has many activities for visitors including the Jarrett Prairie Center natural history museum; J. Weiskopf Observatory; PrairieView Golf Club, its acclaimed 18-hole bentgrass public golf facility; Heritage Farm Museum; Stone Quarry Park Recreation Park, and nearly 600 acres of restored dolomite prairie land.

The 6.5 miles of well marked trails through the restored prairieland and wooded areas provide opportunities for walking, jogging, hiking, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and more.

Carlson Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld 4150 N. Perryville Road, Loves Park 815-969-4069 rockfordparkdistrict.org Part of the Rockford Park District, this indoor ice arena is fun for all ages and open year round for hockey, figure and public skating. Sapora Playworld is Rockford’s largest indoor, three-level soft playground for children 5 to 12. Tiny Tots Play Space offers a safe, fun place for toddlers to play, exercise and explore.

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Historic Auto Attractions 13825 Metric Dr., Roscoe 815-389-7917 historicautoattractions.com Auto aficionados and nostalgia fans will get a kick out of this museum where history meets entertainment. Historic Auto Attractions has a unique collection of more than 75 special interest autos and countless pieces of Hollywood memorabilia. See limousines used by Presidents Ronald Reagan and Richard Nixon and world leaders like Evita Peron. Tour the White House Room with furnishings used by several presidents. See the movie car from the 1967 film “Bonnie & Clyde,” and Al Capone’s 1929 Ford Model AA beer truck. View the Batmobile, the Ghostbusters Cadillac ambulance and more. In Legends of Racing, see Mark Martin’s 1980 short track Camaro stock car and Richard Petty’s earliest race car in existence, a 1960 Plymouth.

Macktown, a Living History Education Center 2221 Freeport Rd., Rockton 815-624-4200 macktownlivinghistory.com On a forested bluff overlooking the Rock and Pecatonica Rivers are the remnants of Winnebago County’s earliest settlement. See life as it was in the 1830s at the home of fur trader Stephen Andrew Mack, Jr., one of the area’s first settlers, and his wife, Hononegah. Founded in 1829, Macktown, then known as Pekatonic, represents a time of change on the Illinois frontier, when the fur trade collided with a progressive world. The buildings are open to visitors, schools and groups by appointment.

Grounds are open to enjoy during regular Macktown Forest Preserve hours.

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Riverview Ice House 324 N. Madison St., Rockford 815-963-7465 rockfordparkdistrict.org Rockford Park District’s original indoor ice arena, Riverview Ice House offers year-round ice skating on twin rinks and instruction in hockey and figure skating for all levels. Many Olympic, national and regional skating stars have trained here. Enjoy figure skating, hockey, broomball, parties, lessons and exhibitions; and the Strength and Conditioning Training Center.

Theater/Music

Rockford Speedway/Forest Hills Lodge 9572 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park 815-633-1500 rockfordspeedway.com Rockford Speedway is northern Illinois’ oldest professional and continuous sports venue and features a familyoriented racing schedule. The high-banked, quarter mile oval has been tabbed as “Mid-America’s Finest Racetrack.” Racing is sanctioned by the National Association of Stock Car Racing, NASCAR. Rockford Speedway participates in the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series.

The divisions that compete at the Rockford Speedway include: Late Models, All-American Sportsmen, American Short Trackers, Road Runners, Hornets, Winged Women on Wheels and Figure 8s. The track also hosts many different touring series including: Big 8 Series, Mid-American Series, ASA Late Model Series Northern Division, INEX Legends, INEX Bandeleros, Super Cups, FIRA Mini-Indy, Allison Legacy, Rascal Outlaws and many more. Some of the events have been shown on Speed Channel’s “On the Edge” series.

Coronado Theatre 314 N. Main St. 815-968-0595 coronadopac.org The historic Coronado Theatre, Rockford’s “Crown Jewel,” is the home of “Coronado Presents,” a season of live musical and entertainment shows for all ages and demographics. The regional performing arts center is an anchor for downtown Rockford and plays host to performances by the Rockford Symphony Orchestra, the Rockford Dance Company, and the Rockford Coronado Concert Association, as well as Broadway at the Coronado. The theater maintains its original grand style, featuring Spanish castles, Italian villas, oriental dragons, starlit skies and a Grande Barton Pipe Organ, thanks to an $18.5 million restoration completed in 2001 by the Friends of the Coronado.

Davis Park at Founders Landing 320 S. Wyman St. Davis Park, near the BMO Harris Bank Center, showcases a variety of outdoor concerts, local festivals and recreational events throughout the year. Situated on seven acres along the city’s beautiful Rock River, Davis Park was given to the people of Rockford by Morris and Roberta Davis as a place to play, celebrate and relax.

Development of the park was accomplished with money from the Davis Trust, public funds and many private donations.

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Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center 415 N. Church St. 815-964-9713 mendelssohnpac.org Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center has the distinction of being the oldest, continuous community music organization in the United States. In 1884, Chandler Starr entertained her first group of Rockford music lovers at her home on North Main Street. Today it’s home to the Mendelssohn Chamber Orchestra, the Mendelssohn Chorale, the Rock Valley Children’s Choirs and the Kantorei, The Singing Boys of Rockford. Mendelssohn is synonymous with quality music with performances by local and world renowned artists in the Mendelssohn Series and Music on Main.

Rockford Dance Company 711 N. Main St. 815-963-3341 rockforddancecompany.com The Rockford Dance Company, a pre-professional dance company, is one of four resident performing organizations of the historic Coronado Theater. Now in its 35th season, it produces The Nutcracker with the Rockford Symphony Orchestra annually and a fulllength ballet in the spring, as well as a variety of small concerts throughout the year in various venues. Most of the company members received their dance training through the School of Rockford Dance Company and have participated in DanceReach, the performing company of the school.

Rockford Coronado Concert Association 711 N. Main St. 815-968-9863 rccaconcerts.org The association plays host to world-class performances of classical, semi-classical music and dance at the historic Coronado Theatre in downtown Rockford. From opera to dance, symphonies to world music, live musical performances are priced affordably so young people can be introduced to the magic. Established in 1936, the RCCA has brought world-class artists like Itzhak Perlman, the Vienna Boys Choir, the Teatro Lyrico d’Europa production of the opera “Carmen” and the popular Peking Acrobats.

Rockford Symphony Orchestra 711 N. Main St. 815-965-0049 rockfordsymphony.com Housed at the Coronado Theatre in downtown Rockford, the Rockford Symphony Orchestra has entertained music lovers in the community since 1943.

Named Illinois Orchestra of the Year, RSO performs more than 20 annual classics, pops, summer and youth concerts; featuring compositions from Beethoven, Handel, Mendelssohn, Rachmaninoff, Mozart, American composer Aaron Copland and more. The orchestra has hosted some of the world’s most renowned classical music talents such as legendary violinist Itzhak Perlman

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and internationally acclaimed cellist Yo-Yo Ma. RSO is home to the Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra, a performance ensemble for young people.

Starlight Theatre - Bengt Sjostrom Theatre/ Studio Theatre 3301 N. Mulford Road 815-921-2160 rvcstarlight.com Located on the Rock Valley College campus in Rockford’s east side, the world-class Bengt Sjostrom Theatre houses Starlight Theatre, the longest-running summer theater program in the Rockford area. An average of 40,000 people come each June, July and August to see productions under the theater complex’s dramatic hexagonal dome roof made of six triangular “roof leaves.”

During cool summer evening performances, the retractable roof opens from the center point like the petals of a flower to give the audience a glimpse of the night sky through the star-shaped opening. The theater also plays host to a number of concerts and other entertainment.

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Concerts. Professional Hockey. Harlem Globetrotters. Disney on Ice. Monster trucks. The BMO Harris Bank Center has something for everyone.

Since opening in 1981, the BMO Harris Bank Center has been home to live entertainment and sporting events for residents across the region. In the last five years alone, the BMO Harris Bank Center has hosted more than 30 sold out performances such as Brad Paisley, Kelly Clarkson Reba McIntire, Toby Keith, Larry the Cable Guy, Mötley Crüe, Blue Man Group, and Carrie Underwood.

“We have all the amenities of a major arena, yet you are never more than 25 rows away from the action,” said General Manager Gordon Kaye. “This facility has a great intimacy. It’s very much reflective of Rockford. This community has everything someone could want.”

The downtown arena, which is operated by Rockford Area Venues & Entertainment Authority (RAVE), has 7,000 seats and hosts more than 115 event days a year, most of which are open to the public. The regional destination attraction draws patrons from a 45-mile radius, including DeKalb, Marengo, Beloit, Janesville, Freeport, as well as Rockford.

“Having a corporation like BMO Harris Bank invest new dollars in the arena and Davis Park that heretofore were being paid by taxpayers is tremendous,” said RAVE Authority Chairman Mike Dunn. “The ongoing investment, in addition to the sponsorship dollars in the BMO Arena and Davis Park in items that reduce costs or increase efficiencies, allow us to continue to attract better shows and larger audiences.”

One of the arena’s biggest draws is the Rockford IceHogs. The hockey club is the top minor-league affiliate of the National Hockey League’s Chicago Blackhawks. Six months a year, the IceHogs provide quality entertainment for thousands of fans like Shane Hartje, a former season ticket holder, who still gets downtown for at least 10 games a year with his two young children.

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“To live in Rockford and watch these players grow up who will someday play with the Blackhawks, that’s cool,” said Hartje, who gets to a handful of Blackhawks games as well. “The food is excellent, the parking is reasonable and the staff goes out of their way to make you feel comfortable. From a hockey fan’s perspective, taking in a game at the BMO Harris Bank Center is the ultimate experience.”

These days, the fan experience is even better, thanks to a $23 million renovation completed in 2008 by the BMO Harris Bank Center Authority, City of Rockford and Winnebago County. Upgrades focused on enhancing the patron experience, attracting corporate clients, improving revenue-generating amenities, and increasing awareness in the region.

The project included adding a state-of-the-art video scoreboard, club boxes and club lounge, 11 executive suites, a new press box, a 200-person group terrace, additional bathrooms, an exterior façade update, a new box office and new entrance. Most of the renovations were completed by the end of 2008.

“There’s life, activity, and an energy in the building that was lacking before,” said Kaye. “Most of all, it’s a new beginning. We are committed to being a strong partner in the revitalization of downtown Rockford. We need to continue to get the word out that downtown is a fun and exciting place to be.”

Others agree.

“Rockford is now beginning to understand that we are developing up and down North Main and South Main a “Cultural Corridor” for our region,” said Dunn. “From the museums, to Mendelssohn, Coronado Performing Arts Center, the Sullivan Theater, the BMO Harris Bank Center, to Davis Park, Tinker Swiss Cottage and the Ethnic Heritage Museum, these venues, in addition to all of the other entertainment and performance venues in the area, really cause people new to the city to stand up and take notice of who we are and what we have here.”

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Links to THE PAST

There’s no question about it, this is a city that loves golf! Rockford has a national reputation for the quality and number of its public golf courses. It has consistently been named by Golf Digest as number one for mid-sized U.S. cities for the excellence of its public courses.

Rockford Golf Hall of Fame: Links to the Past Any longtime Rockford resident knows the importance of golf to the local area.

Rockford has a national reputation for the quality and number of its public golf courses. It has been named by Golf Digest as number one for mid-sized U.S. cities for the excellence of its public courses several times.

In 2005, the magazine ranked Rockford 22 out of 330 in the United States. Between the Rockford Park District and the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District, the area offers eight of the finest and most affordable competitive courses in the region. Aldeen Golf Club was rated 4-1/2 stars by 2008 Golf Digest Magazine’s Places to Play guidebook and GOLF Magazine calls it one of the Thrifty Fifty (top 50 courses in the country under $50).

To celebrate the significance of local golf, in 2005 the Rockford Park District created the Rockford Golf Hall of Fame, which recognizes, preserves, and promotes the heritage of golf in the area. The day-long celebration begins with golf at Aldeen Golf Club, followed by an induction ceremony and dinner at a local restaurant.

The Hall of Fame is located at Elliot Golf Course. This year’s event is scheduled for Monday, September 23.

“The Golf Hall of Fame is a wonderful way to honor a deserving group of golfers, organizations and businesses,” said David Claeyssens, co-manager of Golf Services for the Rockford Park District. “Every class has been exceptional and we expect this to continue for years to come.”

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continued from the previous page The inaugural class honored included Margaret and Norris Aldeen, Georgalee George, John Holmstrom, Jr., Nancy Joan Kauzlarich, Roger Lindeman, Lloyd McWilliams, Kay Rossmiller, Ken Scott, Mary Lib Skerkoske, Don Terasaki, Tom Warren, Alex Welsh.

Four years ago, Chris Beto was inducted into the Hall of Fame. One of the top local golfers for years, Beto has won more than 45 local tournaments. “Golf is one of the greatest games on earth,” he says. “I was ecstatic to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.”

Each year, a prominent keynote speaker takes part in the day’s activities. Past speakers include former Olympic speed skating champion Dan Jansen, Super Bowl MVP Mark Rypien, former major league pitcher Rick Rhoden, LPGA golfer Wendy Ward and actress Cindy Morgan.

Proceeds from the Golf Hall of Fame celebration benefit the Rockford Park District Youth Golf Programs. For more information, or to nominate a person or organization, contact the Rockford Park District Golf Services Division at 815-987-1602.

Hall of Fame Inductees Class of 2012: Tiger Woods Foundation, John Robertson, Steve Benjamin Class of 2011: Jamie Hogan, Gunnar Nelson, Rockford Sportsmen’s Golf Association, Conny Sjostrom, Sr. and Irene Sjostrom Youth Golf Foundation Class of 2010: Carl Dargene, Webbs Norman, Mary Holton Reid, Mark Taylor Class of 2009: Christian Beto, Ken Kellaney, Scott W. Nicholas, Lois Jean Dahlquist Woodworth Class of 2008: Shirley M. Dommers, Robert “Butch” Pegoraro, Robert A. “Bob” Reitsch, Rockford Pro/Am Class of 2007: David J. Claeyssens, Brad Fowler, Mike Johnson, Junior Golf Association of Greater Rockford – James W. Keeling Class of 2006: Steven Hare, The Hogan Family, Dean Lind, Rockford Women’s Golf Association, Mary Wilder Welsh, Salley Wessels Class of 2005: Margaret and Norris Aldeen, Georgalee George, John Holmstrom, Jr., Nancy Joan Kauzlarich, Roger Lindeman, Lloyd McWilliams, Kay Rossmiller, Ken Scott, Mary Lib Skerkoske, Don Terasaki, Tom Warren, Alex Welsh

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Rockford Park District Courses rockfordparkdistrict.org Aldeen Golf Club and Practice Centre 1902 Reid Farm Road, Rockford • 815-282-4653 AldeenGolfClub.com The course located near Interstate 90 on Rockford’s east side sets a new standard for upscale public golf. With 18 landscaped holes, 14,000-square-feet of putting greens, challenging water hazards on 12 of 18 holes, and 62 sand bunkers (including three Dick Nugent-designed “beach bunkers”), the course has earned 4½ stars by 2004 Golf Digest magazine’s Places to Play guidebook, the highest rating available for a public course. It was chosen as one of the “top 50 courses in the USA under $50” in the September 2004 issue of GOLF magazine. Par is 72.

The golf club is home to the Practice Centre, one of the finest practice facilities in the United States, with well positioned and shaped greens, bent grass fairway, trees, and rough areas.

Elliot Golf Course 888 S. Lyford Road, Cherry Valley • 815-332-5130 Opened in 1968, Elliot Golf Course is conveniently located off Interstate 90 on the city’s far east side. This 18-hole championship course was rated 3½ stars by Golf Digest. Elliot’s 6,433 yards of rolling terrain, large trees, spacious greens, and a smattering of water hazards and sand bunkers make it a challenging course for any golfer. Par is 72. The course also offers a driving range. The course is named for Earl F. Elliot, a long-time director of the Rockford Park District.

Ingersoll Golf Course and Learning Links 101 Daisyfield Road, Rockford • 815-987-8834 Ingersoll is a heavily wooded, 18-hole, par-71 course on Rockford’s west side with narrow fairways and gently rolling terrain on 6,107 challenging yards. Opened in 1922, the course is named for Lt. Clayton Ingersoll, who lost his life in an air crash over France in World War I. While there is no water, the par fours are short, and the tightly tree-lined fairways make keeping the ball down the middle imperative. Ingersoll was selected by the Tiger Woods Foundation to host Tiger Woods for a two-day golf clinic in 2001, as well as the Tiger Woods Foundation’s In the City Festival in 2004. continued on page 40

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Area Public and Private Courses Sandy Hollow Golf Course 18 holes - 6,228 yards. Par 71 (Municipal) 2500 Sandy Hollow Rd Rockford, IL 61109-2350 (815) 987-8836

Ingersoll Golf Course and Learning Links 18 holes - 6,107 yards. Par 71 (Municipal) 101 Daisyfield Rd Rockford, IL 61102-1300 (815) 987-8834

Savannah Oaks Golf Club of Candlewick Lake 18 holes - 2,925 yards. Par 35 (Public) 100 Savannah Dr Poplar Grove, IL 61065-6601 (815) 765-0111

Sinnissippi Park Golf Course 9 holes - 3,230 yards. Par 37 (Municipal) 1401 N 2nd St Rockford, IL 61107-3044 (815) 987-8838

Atwood Homestead Golf Course 18 holes - 7,470 yards. Par 72 (Municipal) 8990 Old River Rd Rockford, IL 61103-8738 (815) 623-2411

Red Barn Golf Course 9 holes - 1,598 yards. Par 28 (Public) 12379 Wagon Wheel Rd Rockton, IL 61072 (815) 624-8037

The Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Club 18 holes - 6,419 yards. Par 71 (Private) 5151 Guilford Rd Rockford, IL 61107-2410 (815) 399-0682

Newburg Village Golf Club 9 holes - 3,154 yards. Par 36 (Public) 253 Club House Dr Cherry Valley, IL 61016-8810 (815) 332-9002

Macktown Golf Course 18 holes - 5,770 yards. Par 71 (Municipal) 2221 Freeport Rd Rockton, IL 61072-1817 (815) 624-7410

Elliot Golf Course 18 holes - 6,433 yards. Par 72 (Municipal) 888 S Lyford Rd Rockford, IL 61108-2749 (815) 332-5130

Swan Hills Golf Course 18 holes - 6,359 yards. Par 71 (Public) 2600 Gustafson Rd Belvidere, IL 61008-9775 (815) 547-3232

Ledges Golf Course 18 holes - 6,740 yards. Par 72 (Municipal) 7111 McCurry Rd Roscoe, IL 61073-8288 (815) 389-0979

Rockford Country Club 18 holes - 6,626 yards. Par 71 (Private) 2500 Oxford St Rockford, IL 61103-3192 (815) 962-0948

PrairieView Golf Club 18 holes - 7,117 yards. Par 72 (Municipal) 7993 N River Rd Byron, IL 61010-9533 (815) 234-4653 x 12

Oregon Country Club 9 holes - 2,901 yards. Par 35 (Private) 250 S Daysville Rd Oregon, IL 61061-9701 (815) 732-7405

Forest Hills Country Club 18 holes - 6,650 yards. Par 72 (Private) 5135 Forest Hills Rd Rockford, IL 61114-5998 (815) 877-5733

Timber Pointe Golf Club 18 holes - 7,077 yards. Par 72 (Public) 5750 Woodstock Rd Poplar Grove, IL 61065-8837 (815) 544-1935

Rochelle Country Club Inc 18 holes - 4,677 yards. Par 66 (Private) US 251 South Rochelle, IL 61068 (815) 562-6666

Aldeen Golf Club 18 holes - 7,058 yards. Par 72 (Municipal) 1900 Reid Farm Rd Rockford, IL 61107-5644 (888) 425-3336

Westlake Village Course 18 holes - 6,337 yards. Par 71 (Public) 3820 Westlake Village Dr Winnebago, IL 61088-8024 (815) 335-7177

Source: golflink.com

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Ogle County Golf Course

Ingersoll Learning Links includes a four-hole, par-three golf course, practice green, practice bunker and driving range. Dedicated in 2004, the facility is the primary site for the park district’s extensive youth instructional program, and the perfect place for families and children.

Adults can level the playing field for a more competitive experience by using Cayman or “Almost Golf” balls to lengthen the Learning Links.

Sandy Hollow Golf Course 2670 Sandy Hollow Road, Rockford • 815-987-8836 Opened in 1930 on Rockford’s south side, this beautiful and challenging course on 6,228 yards is by far the most popular of the five park district courses. Golf Digest rated the 18-hole, tree-lined fairway course with three stars.

Par is 71. One of the more challenging holes is number 11, which requires a tee shot over a pond. Sandy Hollow is certified by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, and placed first in the Public Space category of the 2002 City of Gardens Rockford in Bloom Awards.

Sinnissippi Golf Course 1401 N. Second St., Rockford • 815-987-8838 Sinnissippi Golf Course opened in 1912 and is the oldest of the five Park District courses. Centrally located in beautiful Sinnissippi Park, the nine-hole, par-37, 3,230-yard course is best known for its hilly layout and tree-lined fairways. Sinnissippi offers challenges for advanced golfers as well as opportunity for novices. From the foresight of the first Park District commissioners, Sinnissippi has been nationally recognized for many years. At one time, it was the longest nine-hole course in the nation.

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Prairie View Golf Club 7993 N. River Road, Byron • 815-234-GOLF (4653) prairieviewgolf.com Designed by renowned golf course architect James Spear and owned and operated by the Byron Forest Preserve District, PrairieView’s bentgrass layout can be challenged from four sets of tees, stretching to over 7,000 yards, to test the skills and nerves of every golfer.

Dramatic bunkering. Supreme conditioning. A fifteenacre practice and game-improvement center. Views of restored dolomite prairie land that simply can’t be found elsewhere. It’s no wonder that PrairieView has garnered so many lofty recognitions and accolades.

Winnebago County Forest Preserve Courses wcfpd.org Atwood Homestead Golf Course 8990 Old River Road, Rockford • 815-623-2411 Located six miles north of Rockford, this 18-hole course opened in 1971 on land donated by Seth B. Atwood.

Par is 72. The course was designed by Charles Maddox to present a variety of alternatives so that golfers could select the tees most appropriate for their ability. The site includes a Clubhouse and Pro Shop remodeled from the Atwood family’s large stone homestead.

Ledges Golf Course 7111 McCurry Road, Roscoe • 815-389-0979 Built originally as a private course in 1966, the 18-hole course was purchased by the Forest Preserve in 1978.

Par is 72. Fairway bunkers and sand traps test skill and accuracy. Water hazards are featured on 10 holes.

Macktown Golf Course 2221 Freeport Road, Rockton • 815-624-7410 This sporty 18-hole, 5,770-yard blue grass course was built in the 1930s. The mature trees and established conditions make it a popular course for beginning golfers. With limited sand traps and one small pond, the course plays rapidly. Par is 71.

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Rockford CITY MARKET City Market Offers Something for Everyone Three years ago, Rockford City Market was created as a way to draw people to downtown Rockford.

It’s working.

The Rockford City Market provides farm-produced fruits and vegetables, plants (bedding, perennial, vegetable and herb), cheese, bakery, breads and grain, coffee and tea, soaps, candles, jewelry, flowers, local wines and craft beers. In addition, each week the market features local musical entertainment.

In 2010, nearly 19,000 visitors turned out for the City Market, located along the Rock River. The next year, the Market welcomed 39,000 guests and last year that number grew to 57,000.

According to City Market surveys, 29 percent of all visitors come from outside of Rockford and 92 percent live outside the downtown area. Officials estimate that the market is responsible for nearly $2.5 million in revenue between vendors and surrounding businesses.

“Typically most markets are open on Saturday mornings,” says Cathy McDermott, manager of the Rockford City market. “Most farmers were committed to other area markets so our consultant suggested Friday night.

We didn’t know how it would take off, but it has worked out perfectly. People visit the market and then go out for dinner or drinks afterwards. It’s been a good partnership between the market and local businesses.”

Rockford City Market is a collaborative effort of several agencies, including Rock River Development Partnership, the City of Rockford, and Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. continued on the next page

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The Rockford City Market is open every Friday from May 31 through October 11 from 3 to 8 p.m. The market closes at 7 p.m. after Labor Day. The market takes place along Water Street between State and Jefferson Streets.

healthy snacks. Most vendors and performers come from a 150-mile radius. Demonstrations and kid’s activities ensure a fun and interactive learning environment. A beer garden with live music takes place on the terrace overlooking the market.

“It’s definitely a regional draw,” says McDermott. “The goal is threefold: increase the visitation and exposure of downtown to people who live in other areas of the community; help existing businesses and to incubate small business. The City Market is an opportunity for startups to showcase products, pricing, variety, colors, and flavors of things they produce and grow.”

Paul Washa moved to Rockford 11 years ago from Madison, Wis., where he often attended that city’s popular farmer’s market. The first time he heard about Rockford’s Friday night version, he was skeptical about its timing. No more. Washa and his girlfriend, Danielle Kelly, close their business 30 minutes early during market season just to be among the first to arrive. “We do half our grocery shopping – fresh bread, cheese, organic meat – there,” says Washa, whose band, Empty Pockets, has even performed at the market. “The Rockford City Market is a community get together. We look forward to it every time. It’s such

In three years, the number of vendors has grown from 40 to 70, which includes local growers and vendors who sell natural products, including vegetables, fruits, eggs, meats, cheeses, flowers, herbs, baked goods, wine and

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a pleasure to be down there. What a great way to start your weekend.”

Rockford Health System is the presenting sponsor again this year. Various health system departments will be staffing a booth at the market during most weeks, providing information, screenings and other activities for visitors.

“Rockford Health System is excited to again be sponsoring the Rockford City Market,” says Wester Wuori, Director of Marketing & Public Relations. “The variety of vendors, the expanded features and the consistently strong attendance has made it a great initiative for us to support. The rapid growth of the market is really bringing a buzz to the downtown and we’re happy to be working with the organizers again to continue that momentum.”

There are many new activities this year. The market will welcome an additional 12 vendors, more activities for children and the participation of local artists. Soon, the market could become a year round event. Officials are looking into plans to construct an indoor downtown location that would complement the outdoor venue.

“The best part about the market is seeing all of the people gathering and socializing,” says McDermott. “I like to bring new people who’ve never been here before. Many guests become attached to the vendors and buy their products week after week. I had high hopes for the market, but I never thought it would grow to the extent it has in three years. It’s become a real gathering place for our community.”

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Rockford, IL SPORTS TOWN Rockford Aviators Baseball Takes Flight This Summer For Rockford fans, a new era of professional baseball is here.

This summer, the Rockford Aviators Professional Baseball Club will be sporting a new look when they take the field at Aviators Stadium in Loves Park. Formerly known as the RiverHawks, the Aviators play in the Frontier League.

to come back. These are not fans. They are our guests. We have to treat them like they just walked into our house.”

Prior to the start of the season, the organization held a name-the-team contest, which resulted in more than 3,000 entries.

On the field, Rich Austin is back for his third season as the team’s manager. Austin spent half of his 10-year playing career with the organization.

“This was important to our fans and it showed,” says Aviators President Bryan Wickline. “It was great to see people take their suggestion seriously and explain why their name was relevant to the area.”

“I love it here,” Austin says. “My main goal is to bring a championship back to Rockford. It was a great time when we won it all in 2004. We’re going to have a good product on the field. We will be a team our fans can be proud of and can get behind.”

“Aviators” is a name that has strong ties to the region’s history,” he adds. “We felt (Aviators) it was a natural connection to the region’s rich aviation history, from pioneers Col. Bert Hassell and Bessica Raiche to the stability and growth of the present.”

Professional baseball is more than just about wins and losses. This year, the team has ramped up its promotional schedule, including fireworks every Friday night, giveaways every Saturday night, Military Night, Senior Citizen Night, 50 Cent Hot Dog Night and more family activities on Sundays. Improving concessions and food quality also rank high on Wickline’s list of priorities.

“I want to make the games fan-friendly,” he says. “It will be successful when fans come out and they’re not bored.

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The Aviators look to field a competitive team in a league where the age limit for players is 27. Many Frontier League players have been affiliated with a major league team at some point during their careers. “They were released and came here to work on their curveball, or maybe they have a hitch in their swing,” Wickline says.

“They’re guys who are hungry and want to get back to where they once were.”

The season starts in May and goes through August.

Rocko is back as team mascot and the Aviator’s colors remain the same; navy and orange with accents of Columbia blue.

“We’re looking forward to creating a memorable first season of Aviators baseball,” says Wickline.

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Rockford Aviators Baseball 4503 Interstate Blvd., Loves Park 815-885-BALL • rockfordaviators.com The Rockford Aviators make their home in Loves Park, IL in a more than 3,000-seat stadium off Interstate 90 and Riverside Blvd. As a Central Division member of the independent professional Frontier League, the Aviators play dozens of home games against teams from across the Midwest and is host to concerts and other events throughout the summer and early fall. The team has won multiple league championships.

Rockford IceHogs Professional Hockey 300 Elm St., Rockford 815-986-6465 • icehogs.com The IceHogs hockey organization has established itself as a staple in the Rockford community. As the longest running professional sports team in Rockford, the IceHogs prides itself on its work in the community through the IceHogs Charitable Foundation and as the premiere choice for entertainment in the Forest City. The IceHogs are the top affiliate of the Chicago Blackhawks in the American Hockey League and have an unprecedented 10year affiliation agreement with the Blackhawks.

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The Rockford Region is the Amateur Sports Capital of the Midwest Sportscore Complexes

Sportscore One - Veteran’s Memorial Sportscore 1288 Elmwood Rd., Rockford (815) 636-8339 The original Sportscore One complex is located adjacent to the Rock River in northwest Rockford. The 105-acre complex was built in 1983 and has 8 lighted softball diamonds, 8 regulation soccer fields, and 11 practice soccer fields.

Recreational activities at Sportscore One include soccer, softball, baseball, boating, fishing, and recreational path use. Local play plus regional and national tournaments attracts over a million visitors to this location a year, and is consistently rated as the area’s top tourist destination.

Sportscore Two 8800 East Riverside Blvd., Loves Park (815) 885-1135 Sportscore Two is a busy hub of activity, a 124-acre site developed in 2001. It’s a major tourism draw on weekends and provides local players home field advantage!

On weekdays, local teams use the Sportscore Complex for practice, training, and matches. On weekends, local clubs host tournaments so players can participate close to home on high quality fields.

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Sportscore Two has 19 regulation soccer fields and 14 practice fields outdoors, with an Indoor Sports Center containing 3 multi-sport surfaces. This recreation center hosts activities that include soccer, rugby, football, volleyball (hard court), golf, softball, basketball, Pickleball, wiffle ball, dodge ball, ultimate Frisbee, adapted and wheelchair sports.

The Indoor Sports Center is also the venue for trade shows, expositions, and entertainment, including women’s roller derby.

The Rockford Park District’s Sportscore Complexes are revered by athletes, respected by coaches, and recognized by professional organizations as some of the finest amateur sports facilities in the Midwest and the USA. Athletes know these as the “field of dreams.” Sports Turf Manager’s Association has twice awarded Sportscore Complexes “Sports Complex of the Year.”

Because of earned reputation and past experience, we can accommodate larger tournaments - we were selected to host the United States Youth Soccer Association (USYSA) Region II soccer tournament five times in the past decade, and the Midwestern location for the Olympic Development Program for soccer.

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Area SHOPPING There are many places to shop, both indoors and out, in the Rockford area. Retail stores with ample parking and distinctive selections have coalesced around key transportation intersections, including State Street and Perryville Road, Broadway and Alpine Road, North Second Street and IL 173, Riverside Boulevard, and State Street in downtown Rockford. Unique stores, big box stores and shopping centers are found throughout the region.

River District Association 102 N. Main St., Rockford 815-963-8111 riverdistrict.com River District, located in Rockford’s historic downtown, is a hub for arts and entertainment, cultural venues & activities, salons, unique dining and shopping experiences, luxurious loft apartments, historic residential neighborhoods, attractive parks and grand old churches. The beautiful Rock River is a vital component of Rockford’s River District, drawing resident and visiting boaters from around the region.

CherryVale Mall and The District At CherryVale 7200 Harrison Ave., Rockford 815-332-2440 shopcherryvalemall.com Rockford’s largest indoor shopping mall, at Harrison Avenue and Perryville Road, has more 130 stores, including Bergner’s, Macy’s, Sears and JCPenney department stores, and 16 eateries. The District at CherryVale houses Barnes & Noble, Coldwater Creek, Granite City Food & Brewery, Jos. A. Bank, Talbots and more!

The Shops of Edgebrook 1639 N. Alpine Road, Rockford 815-226-0212 edgebrookshops.com The Shops of Edgebrook features an eclectic mix of stores and services. The upscale shopping center has restaurants, clothing boutiques, furniture, gifts and more.

It plays host to a number of events throughout the year, including Farmers Markets and Music on the Mall in summer and fall, the Cider N’ Cinnamon craft fair and Festival Of Fantasy Halloween Contest & Parade in fall, and a Fashion Show in spring.

MainStreet Machesney N. Second St. & Harlem Road, Machesney Park 815-877-5432 This is the village’s original “downtown.” Remember shopping before the big box stores? Most of the shops are independently owned by local residents and families who have been doing business in the community for 30 years or more. The area features a beautiful streetscape, with brick walkways and old-fashioned lantern lighting.

North Towne Mall North Main Street & West Riverside Blvd., Rockford North Towne Mall features specialty stores, restaurants and taverns, and Cliffbreakers Riverside Resort.

Gateway District West Lane Raod (IL 173), Machesney Park Located along a five-mile corridor on IL 173 between IL 251 east to the I-90 interchange, the Gateway District is a shopper’s paradise, offering national big box retailers, smaller boutique stores, financial institutions, and restaurants. Stores include Menards, Kohls, Target, Home Depot, Gordmans, Office Depot, Pier I Imports and PetSmart.

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Rockford Chamber STAFF The Rockford Chamber of Commerce staff can be reached directly with the contact information listed below:

Einar K. Forsman President & CEO 815-316-4304 eforsman@rockfordchamber.com

Cyndie Landis Financial Assistant 815-316-4300 clandis@rockfordchamber.com

Heidi Garner Executive Assistant to the President 815-316-4312 hgarner@rockfordchamber.com

Joy Moriarty Vice President, Finance 815-316-4316 jmoriarty@rockfordchamber.com

Doug Hessong Director of Publications & Technology 815-316-4338 dhessong@rockfordchamber.com

Stacy Mullins Director of Events 815-316-4302 smullins@rockfordchamber.com

Lynette Jacques Advertising and Sponsorship Executive 815-316-4317 ljacques@rockfordchamber.com

Diane Navickis Membership Development Manager 815-316-4315 dnavickis@rockfordchamber.com

Vee Jevremovic Manager of Education Programs & Events 815-316-4337 vee@rockfordchamber.com

Joan Sundvall Membership Contact Coordinator 815-316-4320 jsundvall@rockfordchamber.com

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Advertiser’s INDEX The Rockford Chamber of Commerce would like to thank our advertisers for supporting this publication.

Alpine Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Necchi New Home Sewing Center . . . . . . . . . . 17

Anderson Automotive Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover

Baker Tilly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Pierce Laminated Products, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Brian Thomas Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Rock River Valley Blood Center . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Comcast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Concordia University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Rockford Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Furst Staffing Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Rockford Area Realtors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Humana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Rockford Career College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Leading Lawyers Network . . . . Inside Front Cover

Stockholm Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

MembersAlliance Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

SwedishAmerican Health System . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Thayer Lighting, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Meridian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

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Miller Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Transformations Plastic Surgery . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover

ModernSpace Studio Techline Rockford . . . . . . 16

University Club of Rockford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

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