2014 Rockford Chamber Community Relocation Guide

815.987.8100 815.987.8122 fax info@rockfordchamber.com rockfordchamber.com Cover Photography C. Tyson Photography Writers Paul Anthony Arco Barb Connors Design/Layout/Production Doug Hessong Advertising Sales Lynette Jacques Member Relations Manager Diane Navickis Database Manager Joan Sundvall

Welcome Letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Living in Rockford . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Regional Healthcare . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Key City Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Local Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Dining Out in Rockford . . . . . . . . . 17 A Skilled Workforce . . . . . . . . . . . 22 A Night Out in Rockford . . . . . . . . . 23 Partners in Education . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Award Winning Park District . . . . . . . 32 Other Useful Services . . . . . . . . . . 35 Fun for Everyone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Teaching Youth the Game of Golf . . . . 45 Rockford City Market . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Rockford, IL Sports Town . . . . . . . . . 51

ABOUT THIS BOOK - The 2014 Rockford Chamber of Commerce Community 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 2014 Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

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

Area Shopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Rockford Area Map . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Rockford Chamber Board of Directors . . 57 Rockford Chamber Staff . . . . . . . . . 58 Who to Call, Chamber Services . . . . . 59 Advertiser’s Index . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Photos provided by: Brian Thomas Photography, CoCo Key Water Resort, Coronado Perfoming Arts Center, OSF Saint Anthony Medical 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, The Rockford Register Star and SwedishAmerican Health System

contents

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

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 become more familiar with our community.

From our local healthcare systems, city services, the Chicago Rockford International Airport, parks and visitor destinations, educational institutions, and dining options, there is so much to appreciate about Rockford.

Rockford is not just about work. This is a city that loves to play. This guide showcases the worldclass Rockford Park District, twice 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 is 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 any of the numerous tournaments that take place at Sportscore One and Two. These may include soccer, rugby, and fast pitch softball. 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.

You can also simply use this guide to identify the businesses and services that will help you in meeting your needs while enjoying Rockford. The great news about this guide is everyone featured is a member of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce and believes so much in supporting our community.

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

Sincerely,

Einar Forsman President and CEO Rockford Chamber of Commerce

Living in ROCKFORD

Coming Back Home

After college, Maryjo Pirages could have easily moved to a big city like Chicago, where she spent a summer while earning a law degree from the University of Illinois.

Instead, Pirages decided to return home to Rockford, where she was born and raised. “Living in Chicago was wonderful and a great learning experience,” says Pirages, an associate attorney for Holmstrom & Kennedy, P.C. “But it was too big for me. It was difficult to get around. It made sense to come home. I like the convenience Rockford has to offer. I can get to most places within 15 minutes. It’s has small-town attributes, yet still has a bigger city feel.”

Pirages, who graduated from Boylan High School, has seen considerable change in her hometown since she was away at college. Especially in the thriving downtown area thanks to the Coronado Performing Arts Center, BMO Harris Bank Center and activities such as the Rockford City Market.

“For millennials and young families moving here, the Rockford area offers residents an emerging cultural life,” says Steve Bois, CEO of Rockford Area Realtors.

“New development downtown includes cool boutique shops and emerging, really hip restaurants. The restaurants are specializing in different cuisines and restaurants are reaching a higher level. Overall, there’s a hustle and bustle, a palatable buzz in the downtown scene. What an exciting time to be part of an emerging experience and see an evolution over time.”

Another 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 Pirages, due

to housing affordability. Real estate is a good long-term investment in Rockford. Buying a home is much more attainable for the average resident here than elsewhere in the country.

“Quality of life is what most appeals to those who call Rockford home – both longtime residents and newcomers alike,” says Bois. “Rockford is regarded for its

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.)

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continued from the previous page 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. We have a large state park that’s full of summer and winter outdoor activities. In just a few minutes you can be out of town on a remote road cycling out in the country. All these activities are here for the taking.

“Rockford is a city on the move in so many new ways,” he adds. “Current expansion of the aerospace cluster is a huge kick for the Rockford regional economy. The BioSciences have a nice footprint too and are poised to grow. I’ve always found great opportunity here in Rockford. There are many ways to make a living, chances to get involved and make a difference. This is a community comprised of very talented and energetic people, and a place where if you can dream it, you can do it. It has a rich history of creating things that have changed the world.”

While busy with her career, Pirages finds time to give back to her community. She volunteers for the Big Brothers Big Sisters, Next Rockford, Crimestoppers, The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois and Transform Rockford, an initiative aimed at improving the social and economic well-being of the community. “Being involved in my community enables me to grow as a person,” she says. “Since I’ve been back, I’ve met so many good people who make a difference working and volunteering in our community. That inspires me.”

“Rockford has taken significant steps to reinvent itself, particularly in the last year,” says Bois. “Transform Rockford is a new community-wide initiative looking to change the area’s current socioeconomic trends.

We’re defining the key facts and identifying the real root causes to some of the region’s challenges. With a team of engineers as part of this, we have a great chance for real long-term change and a chance to create huge success.”

Pirages is excited about Rockford’s future, and she plans on playing an active role in its success.

“I find being home to be both professionally and personally satisfying,” she says. “Rockford is such a great place to live. We’re at an exciting point, and I think it will only get better.”

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

% 21.0 7.1 5.8 12.1 28.3 12.0 13.4

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

+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

Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

Regional HEALTHCARE

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.

Healthy Living Bonnie Johnson thought her life would never be the same. For years, Johnson suffered from debilitating back pain that took her from doctor to doctor looking for answers. “I was always an active person,” she says. “But it got to the point where I could only stand with the use of a walker. I was in constant pain.”

That is, until friends recommended the Rockford Spine Center, led by Dr. Fred Sweet, who along with his partners are fellowship trained spine surgeons who perform several hundred spine surgeries a year. In fact, Sweet has come up with several advanced treatments that have helped earn RSC a national reputation.

Sweet diagnosed Johnson with spinal stenosis and severe scoliosis. In November 2012 Sweet operated on Johnson and it wasn’t long after that the Rockford resident returned to her old ways. She’s active again and free of pain. “I instantly knew Dr. Sweet was the right doctor for me,” Johnson says. “Traveling to different cities looking for help was painful. It was frustrating going back and forth to doctor’s appointments. I’ve learned that you don’t have to leave Rockford looking for quality medical care.”

Indeed, Rockford is fortunate to have excellent healthcare institutions staffed by superior medical professionals. That includes three continued on the next page 2014 Community Relocation Guide

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continued from the previous page healthcare systems, specialty clinics and a world-class medical teaching university.

“The quality of healthcare in Rockford is outstanding,” says 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.”

SwedishAmerican is comprised of two hospitals, 30 clinics, a home health care 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.

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Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

In addition to the region’s only heart hospital, in 2013 SwedishAmerican opened the new outpatient Regional Cancer Center in collaboration with UW Health in northeast Rockford. In 2014, SwedishAmerican Medical Group will open its 20,000-square-foot stateline clinic in Rockton, offering primary care, immediate care, and specialty care. “Our emphasis has been to develop a large, high quality medical group so that people can find care close to home,” says Gorski.

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 five decades as a Level I Trauma Center with a privately owned helicopter. OSF provides Cardiovascular Services, including Rockford Cardiovascular Associates and is the only Rockford hospital providing Transaortic Valve Replacement (TAVR). There is also a Center for Cancer Care with the only TrueBeam linear accelerator, Illinois Neurological Institute, Women’s Center, OSF Specialty Clinic – Guilford Square, OSF Wound Healing Center and OSF Diabetes Center. continued on the next page

2014 Community Relocation Guide

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continued from the previous page

Rockford Health System

University of Illinois at Rockford

SwedishAmerican Health System

OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center

2400 N. Rockton Ave., Rockford 815-971-DRDR rockfordhealthsystem.org 1401 E. State St., Rockford 815-968-4400 swedishamerican.org

1601 Parkview Ave., Rockford 815-395-0600 rockford.medicine.uic.edu 5666 E. State St. 815-226-2000 osfsaintanthony.org

OSF Medical Group primary care physicians can be found at locations across Rockford, Winnebago and Boone County, including the OSF Center for HealthRock Cut. OSF PromptCare takes care of minor medical emergencies at three locations. OSF also includes the Saint Anthony College of Nursing and the OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center Foundation. In 2013 OSF HealthCare became a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network.

“OSF HealthCare continues to make Rockford a health care destination,” says Paula Carynski, president of OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center. “Becoming a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network this past year will truly help in that endeavor. We are also pleased to have expanded our primary care services and outpatient lab, imaging and physical therapy services in Belvidere this year, following the opening of primary care clinics in Byron and Rockton/Roscoe in 2013.”

Rockford Health System includes Rockford Memorial Hospital; Rockford Health Physicians with 10 clinic

8

Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

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. The organization also offers specialized care with the Regional Perinatal Center; Women’s Center; the Heart & Vascular Center; and Brain & Spine Center.

“We continue to focus on delivering the highest level of patient care in the region and that’s reflected in the numerous quality awards we’ve received over the past decade,” says Gary Kaatz, president and CEO of Rockford Health System. “We make significant investments in key areas such as trauma; cardiology; neurosciences; neonatal care; cancer; pediatrics and a wide range of other specialties and sub-specialties. We have a responsibility to the residents of the Rock River Valley to use our resources wisely and we take that very seriously.”

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.

Customer Services - 815-987-5500 City of Rock-

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, City of Rockford - Non-Emergency: 815-966-2900, Handles law enforcement, peace preservation, crime prevention, traffic control and education.

For all areas outside the city of Rockford: Winnebago County Sheriff Non-Emercency: 815-282-2600.

FIRE & 911 CENTER - 911, 815-987-5645 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 - 815-987-5585 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.

ford

“Excellence Everywhere for Everyone” 425 E. State St. • 815-987-3024 • rockfordil.gov 10

Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

Most Commonly Requested Services Service

Agency Telephone

Arts Council

Rockford Area Arts Council

815-963-6765

Construction & Development

Community & Economic Development

815-987-5585

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

815-967-6915

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 Information

Better Business Bureau

815-963-2222

Convention and Visitors Bureau

RACVB

815-963-8111

Crimestoppers

City of Rockford

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/Voter Registration (City of Rockford)

Board of Election Commissioners

815-987-5750

Employment Security, Department of

State of Illinois

815-395-6627

Employment - YouthBuild Rockford

Comprehensive Community Services

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

815-987-5660

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

Home Start

815-962-2011

Human Services

State of Illinois - Dept. of Human Services

815-987-7620

Landfill

Winnebago Landfill Company

815-874-7375

Library (Rockford Public Library)

City of Rockford

815-965-7606

Licenses (new businesses)

City of Rockford

815-987-5594

Liquor Licenses

City of Rockford

815-987-5549

Neighborhood Development

City of Rockford

815-987-5600

Parking Information (Passes & Tickets)

City of Rockford/ABM Parking Services

815-968-5294

Park District

Rockford Park District

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 Records

Police Department

815-987-5092

Police Traffic Unit

Police Department

815-987-5868

Post Office

United States Post Office

815-229-4811

Pothole Hotline

City of Rockford Public Works Department

815-987-5771

Probation-Adult

Winnebago County

815-319-6250

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Property Tax Information

Winnebago County Treasurer’s Office

815-319-4400

Property Tax Assessments

Supervisor of Assessments/Winnebago County

815-319-4460

Public Works (after-hours emergencies)

City of Rockford

815-987-5712

Purchasing

City of Rockford

815-987-5560

Human Services

Rockford Township

815-962-8855

Social Services

Salvation Army

815-969-7408

Special Events Information

City of Rockford

815-987-5590

State’s Attorney

Winnebago County

815-319-4700

Street Lights (burned out)

Com-Ed

800-334-7661

Street Division (includes forestry)

City of Rockford Public Works Department

815-987-5763

Traffic Court

Winnebago County

815-319-4500

Election Information / Deliquent Taxes

Winnebago County

815-319-4250

Water Emergencies (after-hours)

City of Rockford

815-987-5712

Winnebago County Board Chairman

Winnebago County

815-319-4225

Winnebago County Circuit Clerk

Winnebago County

815-319-4500

Winnebago County Coroner

Winnebago County

815-319-4970

Winnebago County Clerk/Vital Records

Winnebago County

815-319-4500

Winnebago County Health Department

Winnebago County

815-720-4000

Winnebago County Jury Duty

Winnebago County

815-319-4880

Winnebago County Recorder

Winnebago County

815-319-4325

Winnebago County Sheriff

Winnebago County

815-319-6000

Winnebago County Treasurer

Winnebago County

815-319-4400

Zoning (City)

City of Rockford

815-987-5585

Zoning (County)

Winnebago County

815-319-4350

Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

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

Windstream Communications 616 E Limerick Lane Beloit, WI 608-368-1525

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

Electric

Electric/Gas

Gas

Television, Cable

ComEd, An Exelon Company 123 Energy Ave. Rockford, IL 800-334-7661 comed.com

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

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

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

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

2014 Community Relocation Guide

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Local TRANSPORTATION Plenty of Options for Visitors and Residents to Move Around the Region Jake and Lisa Dykstra and their son, Jacob, always look forward to vacations in Florida and Arizona. The anticipated trip is always made easier by the fact that the Poplar Grove family is just a short drive from the Chicago Rockford International Airport, from where they fly into Tampa or Sanford, Fl., or Mesa, Az. “The real value for us is the convenience and the accessible parking,” says Jake. “We can be there in 20 or 25 minutes.

The ease of getting in and out is a big deal to us. Flying out of Rockford is always the first choice for our family.”

Located 85 miles northwest of Chicago, RFD is the 215th largest passenger airport in the country. More than 200,000 passengers depart from RFD each year and 2013 marked the highest passenger traffic since the return of air service in 2003, according to Amy Ott, Deputy Director. “Much of RFD’s success can be attributed to the value we place on a hassle-free experience that begins immediately upon airport arrival,” she says.

“Travelers arriving at RFD can expect amenities such as free parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, a brand new bar and short security waiting times.”

RFD offers non-stop flights to eight destinations.

Travelers can reach three warm-weather international destinations via Apple Vacations, including Punta Cana, Dominican Republic; Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and Cancun, Mexico. Allegiant Airlines flies to Ft. Myers/Punta Gorda, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Tampa, and Orlando. Depending on the season, as many as 31 flights depart from RFD each week, with more to come in the near future.

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. “Our goal is to treat each of our passengers as members of our own family,” says Ott. “In 2013, we honored more than 30 volunteer Airport Ambassadors who have logged 2,080 hours to assist RFD in providing exceptional service to our passengers.”

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

RFD also hosts the Rockford AirFest, a two-day event that attracts more than 75,000 visitors from around the region. This year, the popular festival will be held June 7-8 and feature the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.

“AirFest is one of the most highly anticipated events of the summer and we look forward to this opportunity to showcase our world-class facilities honoring the strong history and presence that Rockford has contributed to the aviation and aerospace industry,” says Mike Dunn, executive director for RFD.

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Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

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) in Milwaukee is the only airport in Illinois or Wisconsin with service from all major domestic airlines.

With more than 7 million annual passengers, Mitchell Airport is the busiest airport in Wisconsin. Eight airlines offer 135 daily departures to 35 popular business and vacation destinations, plus connections to hundreds of destinations worldwide. Southwest, the largest carrier at MKE, offers service to 20 nonstop cities coast to coast. MKE has a number of familyfriendly amenities, including children’s play areas, charging stations for electronic devices, ping pong, an aviation museum, live piano players, and a used book store. Mitchell is a 75-minute drive from Rockford on I-43.

Bus Travel The Rockford Mass Transit District help residents move about the city. Last year, more than 1.7 million riders used RMTD last year and that number continues to grow.

Recently, RMTD added two new routes to its system. These 19 routes offer 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

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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continued from the previous page can hook up with Trailways routes taking them wherever they need to go.

“With our expanded service area we like to say that Rockford Mass Transit can now get you where you need to go, no matter which way your compass is pointing,” says Lisa Brown, marketing and public relations specialist.

Used with permission from the Rockford Register Star and rrstar.com

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

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Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

The Van Galder Bus Company has been providing transportation since 1947. Van Galder provides service to Chicago O’Hare International Airport and downtown Chicago every day of the year, as well as single and multi-day excursions throughout the region for sporting events, theater performances and sightseeing in some of the Midwest’s most incredible locales.

“We’re fortunate in this area to have access not only to airports, but to the largest city in the Midwest,” says Allen Fugate, operations manager for Van Galder. “We strive to provide solid customer service in order to get guests where they need to be, whether it’s a local destination or to Chicago on their way to some other place in the world.”

Dining Out IN ROCKFORD Karen Carlson dines out nearly every day. A demanding work and family schedule keeps the Belvidere resident on the run most of the time.

“I’m usually running through a drive through, but if I get the chance to have a sit down lunch, I have a few favorites,” she says. “What I look for in a restaurant is cleanliness, food, service and atmosphere, in that order.

I tend to lean toward restaurants with variety. Japanese or Mexican are my favorite types of restaurants. I always like to try new places but usually find myself going back to more established restaurants. It seems that most of the new places are chains, but I prefer local. Local is just a different feel, more like family.”

“We have an abundance of restaurants,” says Rich Huffman, general manager of Stockholm Inn. “Customers love all cultures. Whether it’s Stockholm Inn, Giovanni’s, or Lino’s, people tend to follow long-time established restaurants in the community. We’re off the beaten path at Stockholm Inn, and you pass 75 restaurants to get to us, but people still keep coming.”

Rockford also likes new restaurants. Just look at the packed parking lots at popular new eateries such as Chick fil-A, LongHorn Steakhouse or Jason’s Deli.

It’s no secret that Rockford loves to eat.

“This town likes new,” says Dustin Turner, general manager of Old Chicago. “Whether it’s fast casual or sit down, people enjoy going out with family and friends to have fun and sample different style restaurants.”

You name it – a mad dash through a fast food restaurant or a ritzy night out on the town – and Rockford eats it up.

The Rockford area has a wide selection of dining options.

From dining downtown along the Rock River, to dining continued on the next page

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continued from the previous page located conveniently near one of the area’s many shopping districts, there’s a unique experience waiting for you any day of the week.

“People flock to comfort food,” says Katlyn Johnson, general manager of Thunder Bay Grille. “That’s why it’s important for any restaurant to always try something new and to keep it fresh. As restaurants, we’re always evolving.”

One of the changes, in fact, is a move to offering healthier options. Thunder Bay Grille, for example, now features a gluten-free menu. “Customers are becoming more health conscience,” says Johnson. “People want to know their fish are wild caught. They’re more informed and making educated decisions about their food choices.”

Thunder Bay Grille offers a little of everything including hearty salads, handcrafted burgers and mouthwatering steaks and seafood. Customers range from locals to traveling businessmen who stop in from the I-90 corridor. “Our setting is very urban chic,” says Johnson. “We think of ourselves as a chic hunting lodge.”

Looking for a great place to share a world-class pizza and a tasty craft beer? Check out Old Chicago, it is a place that’s popular for family get togethers, celebrations or meeting friends after work.

Founded in Colorado, Old Chicago is a corporate restaurant with 100 locations including Rockford, with 25 more restaurants slated to open in 2015. Old Chicago prides itself not only on great food and great atmosphere, but it offers beer lovers 110 different selections of brew. “If you like good beer, we’re the ones to go to,” says Turner. “We’re the beer authorities.”

Stockholm Inn has been in business since the 1940s.

Known for its Swedish pancakes with lingonberries, Swedish meat balls and Friday night fish fry, this popular Rockford destination serves 12,000 customers a week.

“We like to keep things simple,” says Huffman. “We strongly believe in taking care of customers. They’re vital in our business. Anyone can serve great eggs and toast, but people love to come to Stockholm Inn for the tradition, great food and excellent customer service.”

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 – casual, elegant, family-style, buffet, or maybe a quick bite at a fast food restaurant? Sample a few of the restaurants below.

Chamber Member Restaurants

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Abreo Restaurant 515 E State St Rockford, IL 61104 www.abreorockford.com (815) 968-9463

Aunt Mary’s Restaurant 4431 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 www.auntmarysrestaurant.com (815) 397-6461

Capri Restaurant, Inc. 313 E State St Rockford, IL 61104 www.caprirockford.com (815) 965-6341

Applebee’s Restaurant 6845 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 www.applebees.com (815) 226-8818

Beefaroo, Inc. 6364 Sebring Way Loves Park, IL 61111 www.beefaroo.com (815) 637-1008

Chick-fil-A Rockford 280 N Perryville Rd Rockford, IL 61107 www.chick-fil-a.com/rockford (815) 381-1010

Applebee’s Restaurant 1675 E Riverside Blvd Rockford, IL 61114 www.applebees.com (815) 654-8339

Behr Iron & Metal 1100 Seminary St Rockford, IL 61104 www.behrim.com (815) 987-2600

Ciao Bella Ristorante 6500 E Riverside Blvd Loves Park, IL 61111 (815) 654-9900

Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

Cronies Grill 9032 N 2nd St Machesney Park, IL 61115 www.croniesgrill.com (815) 282-2262 Culver’s Restaurant 5610 Wansford Way Rockford, IL 61109 (815) 398-9938 Der Rathskeller 1132 Auburn St Rockford, IL 61103 www.derrathskeller.net (815) 962-2922 Egg Harbor Cafe 1603 N Alpine Rd Ste 121 Rockford, IL 61107 www.eggharborcafe.com (815) 399-2650 Franchesco’s Ristorante 7128 Spring Creek Rd Rockford, IL 61107 www.franchescos.com (815) 229-0800 Gene’s Place 4412 Manchester Dr Rockford, IL 61109 www.genesplace.biz (815) 977-4365 Giordano’s 333 Executive Pkwy Rockford, IL 61107 www.giordanos.com (815) 398-5700 Giovanni’s, Inc. 610 N Bell School Rd Rockford, IL 61107 www.giodine.com (815) 398-6411 Granite City Food & Brewery 7140 Harrison Ave Rockford, IL 61112 www.gcfb.com (815) 332-7070 GreenFire 6795 E Riverside Blvd Rockford, IL 61114 www.facebook.com/greenfire.il (815) 316-3473 Hoffman House 7550 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 hoffmanhouserockford.com (815) 397-5800 Hooters of Rockford 6904 Argus Dr Rockford, IL 61107 www.hooters.com (815) 229-0539

JMK Nippon Restaurant 2551 N Perryville Rd Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 877-0505 Jason’s Deli 575 S Perryville Rd Rockford, IL 61108 www.jasonsdeli.com (815) 397-8606 Jersey Mike’s 6284 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 226-0118 1513 West Lane Rd Unit C Machesney Park, IL 61115 www.jerseymikes.com (815) 633-4200 Johnny Pamcakes 3700 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 www.johnnypamcakes.com (815) 229-7415 Lone Star Steakhouse 6690 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 www.lonestarsteakhouse.com (815) 226-1122 Longhorn Steakhouse 6655 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 www.longhornsteakhouse.com (815) 397-4685 Lucha Cantina, Inc. 1641 N Alpine Rd Ste 212 Rockford, IL 61107 www.luchacantina.com (815) 977-4319

Old Chicago Restaurant 6280 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 www.oldchicago.com (815) 227-4040 The Olive Garden Italian Restaurant 6367 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 www.olivegarden.com (815) 399-3176 The Olympic Tavern 2327 N Main St Rockford, IL 61103 www.theolympictavern.com (815) 962-8758 Panino’s Restaurant 2725 N Main St Rockford, IL 61103 (815) 636-0036 5403 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 www.paninosofrockford.com (815) 227-9200 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

Macianos Pizza (Perryville Pizza, LLC) 6746 Broadcast Pkwy Loves Park, IL 61111 (815) 633-7500 5801 Columbia Pkwy Unit 101 Rockford, IL 61108 www.macianos.com (815) 227-5577 Meg’s Daily Grind 1141 N Alpine Rd Rockford, IL 61107 www.megs-daily-grind.com (815) 316-7669

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Napoli Pizza & Catering 6560 N Alpine Rd Loves Park, IL 61111 (815) 877-9888 8289 Burden Rd Machesney Park, IL 61115 www.napolipizzaandpasta.com (815) 633-4800

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continued from the previous page Thunder Bay Grille 7652 Potawatomi Tr Rockford, IL 61107 www.thunderbaygrille.com (815) 397-4800 Victory Golf Range 7003 N Alpine Rd Loves Park, IL 61111 victorygolfrange.com (815) 633-7075 Vito’s Ristorante, Inc. 1620 N Bell School Rd Rockford, IL 61107 www.vitosristorante.net (815) 312-5080

Red Mango 6876 Spring Creek Rd Ste 118 Rockford, IL 61114 (815) 282-1020 1093 West Lane Rd Machesney Park, IL 61115 www.redmangousa.com (815) 885-8574 Restoration Cafe 625 W State St Rockford, IL 61102 www.rockfordrescuemission.org (815) 977-4361

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Shogun Japanese Restaurant Izakaya 88 293 Executive Pkwy Rockford, IL 61107 www.shogunofrockford.com (815) 394-0007 Stockholm Inn 2420 Charles St Rockford, IL 61108 www.stockholminn.com (815) 397-3534 Taco John’s - South Alpine 3269 S Alpine Rd Rockford, IL 61109 www.tacojohns.com (779) 386-0832

Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

Wendy’s Old Fashioned Hamburgers (K & K Foods Inc.) 50 W Douglas St Ste 1101 Freeport, IL 61032 (815) 235-7515 Wild Wild Westmor Lanes Bar & Grill 2407 N Central Ave Rockford, IL 61101 (815) 963-7210 Wired Cafe’ 414 E State St Rockford, IL 61104 www.wiredcaferockford.com (815) 316-2524

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

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

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Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

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.

Illinois Dept. of Employment Security - Rockford Office 303 N. Main St. 815-395-6627; TTY 815-966-2436 Rock River Training - Belvidere Office 998 Belvidere Road 815-547-9616; TTY 815-547-0253 theworkforceconnection.org

A Night Out IN ROCKFORD

When the sun goes down, Rockford comes out to play Looking for something fun to do at night and on weekends? Don’t worry there are plenty of places and activities to choose from such as theater, concerts, comedy, sporting events and much more.

If sports are your thing, you’re in luck. Rockford is home to the Rockford IceHogs, the top minor league affiliate of the Stanley Cup champions, the Chicago Blackhawks.

The IceHogs play their home games at the BMO Harris Bank Center in downtown Rockford.

During the summer, the Rockford Aviators offer a slate of baseball games at Aviators Stadium, located on the east side of town. If you’re into speed, you’ll enjoy the fast-paced races at the Rockford Speedway.

has plenty of venues to hear the best local bands, as well as the biggest acts in the music industry. While the stars can be found at the BMO Harris Bank Center and the Coronado Performing Arts Theater, several Rockford nightclubs and bars are ideal for taking in a show.

Keith Anderson loves the local music scene. He’s been known to attend multiple shows in one night.

“I like to hear good music anywhere, it doesn’t matter if it’s rock and roll or a good jazz band,” he says. “I can get a great Italian or Asian meal right downtown and head out to a concert. The best part is I don’t have to

Shane Hartje and his children attend as many sporting events as they can. Whether it’s taking in a hockey game, a baseball game, or just running along the Sinnissippi Bike Path, Hartje and family stay plenty busy.

“The atmosphere at the sporting events is fun and the crowds are always good,” he says. “We know so many people at the games that we attend; it’s become almost like a family. The kids love it. And when we’re not at a game, we like to spend a day as a family at the movies, skating or Magic Waters during the summer. There’s never a shortage of things to do.”

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continued from the previous page

travel to the suburbs to see a great show. The night life in Rockford is alive and well. It’s a lot of fun.”

If you’re looking for something different, the Discovery Center Museum hosts a Discovery After Dark event several times a year. The museum is open from 6 to 10 p.m. for adults ages 21 and over. During the evening, guests are able to explore the museum, mingle with friends, and listen to guest speakers talk on such topics as the

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Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

art of mixology to how nanotechnology is changing the world. Discovery After Dark also features themed events such as pumpkin carving at Halloween and an ugly sweater contest during the holidays. The cost to attend is less than $10 for members and nonmembers.

“Discovery After Dark is a fun way to see the museum with other adults,” says Ann Marie Walker, marketing manager. “This is the time for adults to come out

Kathi Edwards finds plenty of fun activities throughout Rockford. For example, she’s attended ArtScene, which brings out thousands of art-lovers to galleries and studios all over town, to enjoy new exhibits of original works. She’s enjoyed time with friends at the Prairie Street Brewhouse, one of the downtown’s most unique historic architectural landmarks. In addition, Edwards and a group of close friends meet for dinner at one of Rockford’s many dining establishments.

and play. It’s a chance to learn about science in a lighthearted way.”

Downtown Rockford is a popular nighttime destination throughout the year, whether it’s seeing a concert or a theatrical performance, enjoying a warm summer night at the City Market, dining in at several fabulous restaurants, or taking a leisurely boat ride along the Rock River.

“For people who say there’s nothing to do, they’re really doing themselves a disservice,” she says. “There is so much to do, that I really have to pick and choose what I can do. Whether it’s downtown or any other part of the city, there’s so much to experience.”

Edwards, like so many others, has a suggestion to those who are new to Rockford.

“Just have an open mind,” she says, “and be willing to try things you’ve never done before.”

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Partners in EDUCATION with Rasmussen College, Judson College and Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.

“Most students need that postsecondary education and we need to connect those dots sooner rather than later,” Jarrett says. “As resources become tighter and tighter, it becomes more important to offer the best professional development from the best possible providers. We have many great providers that we can utilize.”

Rockford Public Schools team up with higher education institutions to provide quality education offerings for local students.

As superintendent of Rockford Public Schools, Dr. Ehren Jarrett knows just how important collaboration is between RPS and higher education institutions.

“We have excellent higher education in the region that we want to take advantage of,” says Jarrett. “They’re all excellent institutions and have unique strengths, and we want to continue those partnerships with all of them.

We think all our partners help bridge those skills gaps that currently exist with students.”

RPS has several key partnerships with area colleges including Rock Valley College, Rockford University and Northern Illinois University, through its college career readiness program. In addition, RPS also works

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 26

Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

Rockford University offers a number of opportunities for RPS students and employees from summer learning experiences to student teacher/observation hours.

In addition, Rockford has pledged $2 million to RPS’s College for All Fund for students, regardless of their economic situation, to pursue higher education.

“A strong community is supported by a strong public school system; a population which has a high percentage of college graduates; and a robust economy with high employment and an abundance of opportunities,” says President Dr. Robert Head. “All of these items are related and all can serve to improve our community. While not the only strategy needed to accomplish a more vibrant community, a successful College for All venture will positively impact our community long term.”

Rock Valley offers a multitude of programs. Running Start is a two-year advanced college program in which qualified students can complete an associate’s degree in preparation to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Engineering while simultaneously completing their high school diploma.

The manufacturing fast track is a nine-week course in which students are prepared to earn two National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Certificates:

Measurement, Materials & Safety and CNC Lathe Level 1 Operation. In addition, students take part in career readiness sessions which finish with interviews with local manufacturing companies, which often lead to employment for the students.

In the fall, Rock Valley will offer college-level math classes for students at Jefferson High School. The idea is to better prepare students, so they’re not taking remedial classes in college.

“Rock Valley College partners with all of our school districts in the region to provide the next step in the educational pathway for students, to support educational enrichment programs to students while they are still in high school, to accelerate their ability to move through advanced education towards four-year degrees and to prepare them for jobs in the community,” says Mike Mastroianni, President of Rock Valley College. “Their educational experience helps prepare them for four-year colleges and universities, and for the working world. We help prepare them to be critical

thinkers and problem solvers, and meet their learning need, whatever their current level.”

RPS and NIU have engaged in a partnership for a number of years. The programs vary from college and career readiness, such as the Engineering Running Start program; classroom, after-school and weekend activities; student services, as well as teacher preparation and educator professional development, such as leadership training for all principals and assistant principals. “We need high quality and diverse placement for our teachers, and they need high quality placement,” says Marilyn Bellert, associate director of NIU’s P-20 Center. “The more we partner with Rockford Public Schools, the more we create high quality places for our candidates.”

Another example of collaboration is the NIU Office of Regional Engagement/Rockford, which is the first and only such office NIU has. It provides full-time staff in a community working exclusively on connecting the resources and expertise of the university with the resources continued on the next page

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continued from the previous page and expertise of the community to address challenges and maximize opportunities.

Jarrett sees more partnerships between RPS and higher education institutions in the near future.

“Engagement with RPS is a top priority as NIU tries to help increase the Rockford area’s educational attainment and support the improvement of public school outcomes,” says Dr. Rena Cotsones, assistant vice president of regional engagement for NIU. “Partnerships don’t just happen. They evolve from continuous relationship-building, introductions to relevant people, brainstorming, and understanding of the local context to identify mutually beneficial opportunities.”

“I see less and less of a clear dividing line between K-12 and post secondary institutions,” he says. “I see more high school students getting college credit while in high school, and more direct partnerships to connect us.

We’re committed to working collaboratively with the region to make sure we have the best possible offerings for our students and a competitive, well-trained workforce for our employers.”

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.

Creative & Performing Arts (CAPA) - 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.

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Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

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

Haskell Year-Round Academy - Haskell Year-Round Academy is the only year-round school in the Rockford Public Schools. The school, located at 515 Maple St., offers programming for Early Childhood students through 5th grade. Haskell offers a 45/15 day calendar for its students. Students begin school in late July and attend for 45 days then enjoy a 3 week break in October. During the 3 week break students can attend an additional week for enrichment in literacy and numeracy. This sequence is repeated again in the spring. Along with the 4 week summer programming students at Haskell are afforded an additional 30 days of school each year.

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.

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.

Thurgood Marshall School - Marshall School houses two special programs for the Rockford Public School District: the Middle School component of the Gifted Program and Grades 4-7 of the Montessori Program. Both programs, in their own unique way, promote academic excellence, personal responsibility, and integrity.

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.

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, Ellis, Froberg, Gregory, Hillman, Johnson, King, Kishwaukee, Lathrop, Lewis Lemon, Marsh, McIntosh, Nashold, Nelson, Riverdahl, Rolling Green, Spring Creek, 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 Community Education Center CHARTER SCHOOLS RockfordCharterSchools.com Charter public schools are privately-operated, publically-funded 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, college-educated adults who will prosper in the global continued on the next page

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continued from the previous page economy. Galapagos serves students in grades K-8th Grade and will add an additional grade each year as students advance.

Legacy Academy of Excellence 815-961-1100 • legacy-academy.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.

Legacy serves students in grades K-6th and adds an additional grade each year as students advance.

CICS Jackson Rockford Charter School 815-316-0093 • cicsjackson.org CICS Jackson (formerly CICS Patriots) is a free, public college preparatory charter school. Currently serving students in Kindergarten through Grade 7 and will continue to expand annually until the school becomes a full K-12 school. Focus is on providing an attractive and rigorous college-preparatory education that meets the needs of today’s student.

Rockford Chamber Educational Institutions Boylan Catholic High School

Galapagos Rockford Charter School

Montessori Private Academy

CICS Jackson Rockford Charter School

H.O.L.D. (Heart of Love Development)

Regional Office of Education

4747 W Riverside Blvd Rockford, IL 61101 (815) 703-8394

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

Huntington Learning Center

Rockford Christian Schools

5301 E State St Ste 104 Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 395-1011 www.rockford.huntingtonhelps.com

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

Keith Country Day School

Rockford Lutheran School

1 Jacoby Pl Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 399-8823 www.keithschool.com

3411 N Alpine Rd Rockford, IL 61114 (815) 877-9551 www.rockfordlutheran.org

Lydia Home - Rockford

Rockford Public Schools, Dist. #205

4000 St Francis Dr Rockford, IL 61103 (815) 877-0531 www.boylan.org

315 Summit St Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 316-0093 www.cicsjackson.org

Christian Life Schools 5950 Spring Creek Rd Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 877-2600 www.clschools.org

The First Tee of Greater Rockford 4402 Larson Ave Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 965-5057 www.thefirstteegreaterrockford.org

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

223 S Winnebago St 3rd Fl Rockford, IL 61102 (815) 966-0039 www.lydiarockford.org

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

501 Seventh St Rockford, IL 61104 (815) 966-3101 www.rps205.com

Rockford Chamber Higher Educational Institutions Columbia College

Rockford Career College

Concordia University of Wisconsin

Rockford University

DeVry University and Keller Graduate School of Management

Saint Anthony College of Nursing

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford

Judson University

University of Illinois Extension Winnebago County

2998 W Pearl City Rd Freeport, IL 61032 (815) 599-3585 www.ccis.edu

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

2250 Point Blvd Ste 250 Elgin, IL 60123 (847) 649-3980 www.devry.edu

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

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

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

OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center 5666 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 226-2000 www.osfsaintanthony.org

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

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

5658 E State St Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 395-5091 www.sacn.edu

1601 Parkview Ave Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 395-0600 www.rockford.medicine.uic.edu

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

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

Rasmussen College 6000 E State St 4th Fl Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 316-4800 www.rasmussen.edu

Rock Valley College

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

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Award Winning PARK DISTRICT Snow Sculpting Competition One of the most unique events in the Rockford area is the Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition (ISSC), hosted every year by the Rockford Park District.

Since 1987, about a dozen teams from across the state compete for the right to represent Illinois at the U.S. Nationals Snow Sculpting Competition, which is held in Lake Geneva, WI. In addition, one exhibition team (the winner of the previous year’s event), and 15 high school teams from northern Illinois take part in the four-day event, which annually draws as many as 60,000 visitors to Sinnissippi Park to view the enormous works of snow art.

“People love it because it’s art,” says John Beck, events, entertainment and recreation projects manager for the Rockford Park District. “It’s a different type of medium that sculptors use. And for visitors, it’s something to do to break up the doldrums of winter. It’s unique. There aren’t that many opportunities to see snow sculpting from start to finish.”

Sven Skupien started sculpting when he was 19. He and his family have competed in the local snow sculpting competition since it started 27 years ago. This year, Skupien’s team took first place with a piece titled “Dragon Whisperer.”

“I love being able to carve or sculpt something so immense,” he says. “Snow sculpting requires a team. There’s too much to do without help; you don’t even need to be an artist to contribute. A person can become good at many different parts of creating a piece. We are brothers, so we tend to bounce ideas off of each other at family get togethers until all three of us are in agreement.”

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The state teams consist of three people, and it must be the same three people who start working on the project.

The high school teams have four people on a team.

“Not all sculptors are artists,” says Beck. “Some teams only have one artist who draws the design and handles the detail work. It’s the magnitude of the piece of work.

Working with huge blocks of snow makes it fun. The challenge is not knowing what’s going to happen when you cut into that block.”

Teams use axes, machetes, water buckets, shovels, ice chisels, and homemade scraping tools. The sculptors are not allowed to use any power tools or pre-fabricated molds. Each team is assigned a block of snow that is six feet long, six feet wide and 10 feet high and weighs about 2-1/2 tons each. The snow used during the competition comes from the Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD). About a week prior to the event, trucks deliver about 56 loads of snow to Sinnissippi Park, where it’s poured into wooden forms.

The teams create a wide range of masterpieces – from dragons to wizards to pouncing tigers. “We see everything from abstract to humorous to historical. It’s all over the place,” Beck says. “We never know from year to year what we’re going to see. That’s what makes it so exciting.”

In the past 28 years, the ISCC has been canceled three times, and postponed several other times due to weather.

“The perfect scenario is fresh snow in early January and temperatures between 0 and 30 degrees,” says Beck. “It

can get too cold, too warm and too snowy. We dream of someday having the ability to make our own snow.”

Scott Triplett has sculpted as a hobby for most of his life. The Rockford resident has sculpted in ice storms, snow storms and rain, with temperatures ranging from -22 to 45. “I enjoy the camaraderie with the other sculptors, the challenge of sculpting in a variety of weather conditions, the beauty of the park, the people that come through and talk to us, and the fact that the event is held right here in Rockford,” he says. “Our city is well known across the country for having more professional level sculptors than any other city in the U.S.” For Beck, the best part about being involved in the snow sculpting competition is getting to know the participants. “There’s a comradery between staff, sculptors and members of the community who volunteer or donate equipment or material,” he says. “It’s awesome to see the process from start to finish. This is an event the entire community can be proud of.”

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Rockford Park District 401 S. Main St., Rockford 815-987-8800/771 IL Relay Service • 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

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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 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.

Other Useful SERVICES

Apartments

Faust Landmark Apartments Office 630 E State St Rockford, IL 61104 (815) 962-3731

Rock River Tower Apartments 913 N Main St Rockford, IL 61103 (815) 963-2111

Hampton Properties (Leasing Office) 3464 Hampton Ridge Dr Rockford, IL 61109 (815) 874-8200 www.hamptonpropertiesapts.com

Rock Valley Apartments 7102 Rock Valley Pkwy Loves Park, IL 61111 (815) 637-6508 www.rockvalleyapartments.com

Terrace Senior Apartments 2321 Halsted Rd Rockford, IL 61103 (815) 654-7313

Banner of Truth International 1401 W State St Rockford, IL 61102 (815) 968-0026 www.banneroftruthinternational.com

First Evangelical Free Church 2223 N Mulford Rd Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 877-7046 www.firstfreerockford.org

Rockford First 5950 Spring Creek Rd Rockford, IL 61114 (815) 877-8000 www.rockfordfirst.com

Catholic Diocese of Rockford PO Box 7044 Rockford, IL 61125 (815) 399-4300

Heartland Community Church 1280 S Alpine Rd Rockford, IL 61108 (815) 395-8000 www.heartland.cc

Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church 108 N 5th St Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 963-8625 www.constantineandhelen.org

Terra Creek Apartments 375 Bienterra Trl Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 397-3320 www.terracreek.com

Mulford Park Apartments 444 Gramercy Dr Ste 10 Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 398-8553

Churches

Court Street United Methodist 215 N Court St Rockford, IL 61103 (815) 962-6061 www.courtstreetumc.org

New Zion Missionary Baptist Church 604 Salter Ave Rockford, IL 61102 (815) 964-3114 www.newzionrockford.com

Westminster Presbyterian Church 2821 Bell School Rd Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 282-1500 www.westminsterrockford.org

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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 dinosaur skeletons in southeastern Montana. Kids of all ages will love visiting Jane: Diary of a Dinosaur; and other top-notch 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.

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.

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 and

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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 museum,” there’s something new every season from the majestic colors of fall, to the hundreds of blooming crab-apple trees in spring, to the butterfly gardens in summer, to the snow-covered evergreens in winter. There’s a 1.8-mile, 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.

Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens 1354 N. 2nd St., Rockford 815-987-8858 Situated along the banks of our beautiful Rock River, Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens brings the tropics to the Midwest. The facility is the third largest conservatory in Illinois, offering an 11,000-square-foot plant exhibition area complete with water features, seating areas, and sculptures, all in a tropical plant setting. The beauty continues outdoors with the newly restored Eclipse Lagoon, complete with two fountains and a waterfall, pedestrian bridge, patio areas, and walkway connecting the Conservatory to the Sinnissippi Rose Garden.

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.”

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

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continued from the previous page 80 feet above Magic Waters and plunging 35 feet over the edge. Enjoy some of the Midwest’s best body slides, the Keelhauler, 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 50-foot 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.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

Theater/Music

Rockford Speedway/Forest Hills Lodge Office 1601 West Lane Road, Loves Park 815-633-1500 rockfordspeedway.com Rockford Speedway is northern Illinois’ oldest professional and continuous sports venue and features a family-oriented 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

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. continued on the next page 2014 Community Relocation Guide

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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.

Charlotte’s Web, div of Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center 406 N. Main 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.

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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 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 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 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 longestrunning 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. In winter, Rock Valley College’s Studio Theatre hosts Agatha Christie murder mysteries and original plays.

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If you’re looking for some Rockford entertainment, look no further than downtown!

Downtown Rockford is the home to three unique venues including the BMO Harris Bank Center, the Coronado Performing Arts Center and Davis Park. Each of these venues is managed by Rockford Area Venues & Entertainment Authority (RAVE), an organization designed to positively impact the downtown area through entertainment.

The BMO Harris Bank Center is the region’s largest and most versatile arena and entertainment venue which has something for everyone. The unique design of the facility allows for up to 7,200 attendees to an event but can be scaled to host a more intimate setting for 2,000 people.

BMO hosts more than 75 events a year including family friendly events such as Disney on Ice, The Harlem Globetrotters and Monster Trucks. The arena also holds a number of concerts throughout the year, attracting musical talent for any taste, including artists such as Carrie Underwood, Cheap Trick, Stone Temple Pilots, Brad Paisley, Kelly Clarkson and Peter Frampton, just to name a few.

One of the biggest draws to the arena is the Rockford IceHogs, a professional hockey team and top minor league affiliate of the Chicago Blackhawks. The six-month season promises to provide a fun tradition for families and friends alike.

Recently, the BMO Harris Bank Center underwent $2 million in upgrades targeted to enhance the guest experience and create additional social gatherings. Arena upgrades included increased seating and upgraded food service operations.

And the entertainment doesn’t stop there.

Outdoor entertainment is a summertime staple. A warm breeze, the smell of popcorn, and the kids sprawled out on a picnic blanket. Since 2010, families have been enjoying free, family-friendly movies on the North Lawn at Davis Park. Stop by Davis Park on Friday nights throughout the summer for Friday Night Flix.

If you’re looking for a more intimate venue, visit the Coronado Performing Arts Center (CPAC), one of Rockford’s historic treasures. The Coronado Theater opened in 1927 as an atmospheric style theater and movie palace. Today you can enjoy the Rockford Symphony Orchestra or a Broadway show at this beloved, elegant venue. The theater is also a great place to see an intimate concert or a comedy show and has drawn performers such as Jerry Seinfeld, Wynton Marsalis, Straight No Chaser, Willie Nelson, NPR’s “Wait Wait . . . Don’t Tell Me,” and Chieftains, among a variety of others.

“Part of RAVE’s commitment is to bring quality, affordable, family-friendly entertainment to the region,” said RAVE Authority Chairman Craig P. Thomas. “Between the entertainment venues and other downtown attractions such as the Discovery Center Museum, Burpee Museum and Tinker Swiss Cottage, there is always something going on for families.”

For more information on events at the BMO Harris Bank Center or Davis Park, visit www.thebmoharrisbankcenter.com or call (815) 968-5600 For information on events taking place at the Coronado Performing Arts Center, visit www.coronadopac.org or call (815) 968-2722

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Teaching Youth

THE GAME OF GOLF

There’s no shortage of golf opportunities for young people in the Rockford area. Just take a look, for example, at the Rockford Park District.

One of the best known districts in the country, the Rockford Park District offers a variety of junior golf programs for ages 3 to college-aged golfers. The program includes basic lessons, clinics, tournaments and programs that combine lessons and play.

“Our programs are intended to help teach children the great game of golf, as well as ensure that we are developing the golfers of the future,” says Duncan Geddes, director of golf operations for the Rockford Park District. “Rockford has a long history of good public golf. Most public courses are accessible and affordable. And golf is a great

recreational sport to play. You don’t have to be an exceptional athlete to enjoy golf for a lifetime.”

Geddes is a product of the local golf scene. He grew up playing local courses, before excelling in high school and studying golf management in college. Geddes returned home to work at Forest Hills Country Club, before joining Aldeen Golf Club when it opened in 1991.

“Local junior golf really took off in the early 1990s, during the height of its popularity across the country,” says Geddes, who, along with the staff at Aldeen Golf Club, was instrumental in developing new instructional programs throughout Rockford, along with Brad Fowler, Perry Green, Lloyd McWilliams and Steve Moore.

In addition to the park district, another local opportunity for young golfers is The First Tee of Greater Rockford. The First Tee, a youth development organization, impacts the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill lifeenhancing values and promote healthy choices through the game of golf. Nearly 16,000 children are involved with the local chapter.

“The First Tee is unique in its youth development, including both golf and life skill learning opportunities,” says Patty Henk, director of the local chapter. “It’s really exciting to see a young person develop from a shy 7-yearold to a confident young person, willing to shake hands with adults and properly introduce him or herself.”

The First Tee offers three areas of programming: The First Tee National School Program, which is available in all Rockford Public School’s elementary schools, two private schools and two Belvidere public schools. The continued on the next page 2014 Community Relocation Guide

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continued from the previous page physical educators are trained by the national office to implement the programs in the physical education classes.

Rockford Park District Courses

The second element is outreach, which is available to any group or organization in the area who would like to introduce their young people to golf. The third part includes life skills education classes in which participants learn The First Tee nine core values which include honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy, and judgment.

“We have young people, who participate in some of our programs, who’ve never been exposed to the game,” says Henk. “They have a curiosity for learning, and are amazed at the golf skills they develop. As coaches, we are also amazed at the personal development we see in our participants and their willingness to learn and use the life skills they develop during lessons.”

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 park district is looking to expand its offerings to young golfers by adding lessons, tournaments and more teaching instructors. Last year, the park district partnered with Rockford Public Schools #205 middle schools to create a new golf program. This year, the park district is splitting the program into competitive and development divisions.

Geddes is also hoping to create a summer internship program that will pair junior golfers with local businesses to help give young people opportunities outside of golf.

In addition, the Rockford area offers junior programs at three Winnebago County courses, three country clubs and Victory Golf Range, a new indoor driving range facility open year round that features hitting bays, putting greens, and golf instructors who are available for individual and group lessons.

The future of local junior golf is bright.

“In working closely with our partner, the Rockford Park District, we feel children participating in our programs are better people for having the character education and also becoming better golfers through the various programs offered,” says Henk. “As the Alpine Hills facility continues to be developed for our young golfers, the middle school program continues to grow, and we reach out to more children in the community, the junior golf scene will continue to make a huge impact on young people for years to come.”

rockfordparkdistrict.org

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 48

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Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: golflink.com

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continued from page 38

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, 3,230yard course is best known for its hilly layout and treelined 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.

Rockford CITY MARKET City Market Growing in Popularity Cindy Karnitz enjoys visiting Rockford City Market. How much? Try every Friday night.

“I like the eclectic variety of local vendors. I have my favorites that I purchase from each week,” says the Rockford resident. “I enjoy seeing friends and networking with the many people I run into each Friday at the City Market. It’s such a family-friendly place that I often bring my daughter who makes fast friends with other kids.”

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. Each week the market also features local musical entertainment.

In 2010, nearly 19,000 visitors turned out for the inaugural season City Market, located along the Rock River. Last year, that number grew to more than 75,000, a 32 percent increase over 2012.

Rockford City Market was created and managed by Rock River Development Partnership in collaboration with the City of Rockford and Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

“We’ve been extremely pleased with the way the community has embraced the City Market,” says Cathy McDermott, manager. “We have quality vendors, wonderful atmosphere, and a great location along the river.”

The Rockford City Market is open every Friday, with the exception of Fourth of July, from May 30 through October 17 from 3 to 8 p.m. The market closes at 7 p.m. after Labor Day. The market takes place in the adjacent streets along Water Street between State and Jefferson Streets. “People visit the market and then go out for dinner or drinks aftercontinued on the next page

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continued from the previous page wards,” says McDermott. “It’s been a good partnership between the market and local businesses.”

According to City Market surveys, 30 percent of all visitors come from outside of Rockford and 91 percent live outside the downtown area. Officials estimate that the market is responsible for nearly $3.5 million in revenue between vendors and surrounding businesses.

In just four years, the number of vendors has grown from 40 to 75, which includes local growers and vendors who sell natural products, including vegetables, fruits, eggs, meats, cheeses, flowers, herbs, baked goods, wine and healthy snacks.

Most vendors and performers come from a 150-mile radius. In addition, the City Market includes demonstrations, kid’s activities and a beer garden featuring live music.

There will be new vendors and performers added to this year’s lineup. On Labor Day weekend the market will hold a special “Rock the Market” evening with extended hours, two different performers and a luau theme. Visitors can also expect to see improvements to the outdoor infrastructure. Rockford Health System is the presenting sponsor of the market.

“City Market is where the community can come together and socialize on a weekly basis,” says McDermott. “We want the market to positively impact area businesses and the downtown area as a whole.”

According to regulars such as Cindy Karnitz, the City Market is doing just that.

“The City Market makes the downtown come alive,” she says. “There are people walking everywhere, exploring the many downtown businesses and restaurants that they may not encounter if it weren’t for the City Market.”

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Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

Rockford, IL SPORTS TOWN Reclaiming First

Facility upgrades and a new downtown athletic facility could further Rockford’s reputation as a premier sports destination.

For several years, the Rockford region has earned a strong reputation as one of the country’s leaders in amateur sports. Amateur sports tourism events held at the Rockford Park District’s Sportscore One and Two gross $15.25 million each year for the local economy and generate nearly $1.8 million in tax revenue for our local municipalities.

Now, community leaders are working to ensure that Rockford remains one of the top destinations when it comes to providing excellent athletic opportunities.

Reclaiming First is a $50 million regional economic initiative led by the Rockford Park District and Rockford

Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, and supported by Winnebago County, the cities of Rockford and Loves Park and various other municipal and community partners.

The plan is to expand and enhance the existing Indoor Sports Center (ISC) and Sportscore Two complexes and convert the former Ingersoll manufacturing building in downtown Rockford into an indoor sports complex by late 2015. The new indoor sports facility will allow Rockford to capture a greater share of the sports tourism market, as well as offer athletic and healthy opportunities for local residents.

“The facility will be specifically designed for anything that you can do indoors such as basketball, volleyball, cheer competition, judo, wrestling, as well as events such as vacation, boat and fishing shows,” says John Groh,

continued on the next page

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continued from the previous page

Above and on the previous page: Architect’s renderings of the new downtown indoor sports facility.

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 10-year affiliation agreement with the Blackhawks.

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president and CEO of the RACVB. “It will be used by citizens during the week, and visitors who come to town on weekends.”

The second part of the plan is to upgrade the Indoor Sports Center and Sportscore Two facilities by adding multi-sport fields, lighting and artificial turf. All volleyball and basketball activities currently at ISC will be relocated to the downtown center, clearing the way for additional artificial turf soccer fields at ISC. This will increase day and seasonal playing time, eliminate weatherrelated problems, and accommodate new sports such as lacrosse or rugby.

“Amateur sports are something our community does very well, and we benefit in many ways from attracting regional and national tournaments,” says Tim Dimke, executive director of the Rockford Park District. “These turf sports tournaments (soccer, softball, Lacrosse) will expand to accommodate more teams with the Reclaiming First sports facility expansions. It will attract new tournaments to our region, which will fill hotels and other businesses on a year-round basis.”

The projected revenue from Reclaiming First is impressive. The additional economic impact resulting from the proposed improvements doubles the economic impact – up to $16.5 million in new community income and up to $2 million in new tax revenues. There will be 40 additional sports tournaments each year and 226 permanent full-time jobs after the construction tradesmen have completed construction of the facility.

“I’m most excited about the downtown sports complex and it’s potential,” says Groh. “It opens us up to markets that we don’t compete in now, and takes us in deeper into other markets. We’ve done well for decades with softball and soccer, but we don’t have a year-round facility.

“We have a proven track record with sports in our community,” he adds. “We have a growing momentum in downtown revitalization. We project that 30 some weekends a year, if not more, will bring in thousands of people with disposable income and time on their hands. We’ll continue to bring life and vitality to our downtown area.”

Reclaiming First is a bold new vision for Rockford’s sports tourism industry.

Local sports leaders are excited at the potential.

“Attracting and retaining these types of sporting events is very good for our local economy,” says Dimke. “With the addition of artificial turf and lights on outdoor fields, we will have a longer playing season and accommodate larger tournaments. With the addition of the indoor sports at the Ingersoll building and expansion of the Indoor Sports Center, weather will not impact play.

We’ve had excellent support and enthusiastic response from the area hotels, municipalities, and organizations such as the Rockford Chamber of Commerce in signing onto Reclaiming First because this is something excellent for our community.”

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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) 987-1640 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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Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com

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.

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 779-207-0110 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.

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.

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!

Gateway District West Lane Road (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.

Machesney Town Center 8700 N. Second St., Machesney Park 815-877-5432 Machesney Town Center enclosed mall facilities are anchored by Bergner’s, Big Lots! and Burlington Coat Factory.

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Rockford Chamber BOARD OF DIRECTORS executive committee

Paul McCann Stanley Steemer

Chairman of the Board Rich Walsh SwedishAmerican Health System

Patrick Morrow Alpine Bank

Chairman Elect Patti Thayer Thayer Lighting, Inc. Vice Chairman Richard Zumwalt OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center Treasurer Larry Bridgeland Mid-City Office Products Immediate Past Chairman Mike Broski Entré Computer Solutions

directors Andrew Benson Benson Stone Company, Inc. Jan Bowman TLC Construction Paul Callighan ComEd, An Excelon Company Joe Castrogiovanni Giovanni’s, Inc. Dr. Rena Cotsones Northern Illinois University Darlene Furst Furst Staffing Jeff Hultman Riverside Community Bank Michael F. Iasparro Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP Michael Mastroianni Rock Valley College

Amy Ott Chicago Rockford International Airport Mark Peterson CBL Associates CherryVale Michele Petrie BMO Harris Bank Laura Pigatti Williamson Rockford Park District Tim Rollins WilliamsMcCarthy, LLP Henry Seybold Rockford Health System Patrick Shaw McGladrey LLP Somchan Thatsanaphon K-I Machine Tool & Production Inc. Josh Trust Rockford Register Star Tim White UTC Aerospace Systems Jennifer Wood CPA

ex-officio directors Einar K. Forsman Rockford Chamber of Commerce John Groh Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Michael Nicholas Rockford Area Economic Development Council

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mary Ann Suprenant Membership Development Manager 815-316-4336 msuprenant@rockfordchamber.com

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

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Who to Call CHAMBER SERVICES Service

Staff

Direct Line

Joy or Cyndie

815.987.8100

cservice@rockfordchamber.com

Address/Contact Changes

Joan

815.316.4320

jsundvall@rockfordchamber.com

Advantage Clubs

Vee

815.316.4337

vjevremovic@rockfordchamber.com

Advertising (publications/web site)

Lynette

815.316.4317

ljacques@rockfordchamber.com

Ambassadors

Diane

815.316.4315 dnavickis@rockfordchamber.com

Annual Publications (editorial/distribution)

Doug

815.316.4338

dhessong@rockfordchamber.com

Board Meetings

Heidi

815.316.4312

hgarner@rockfordchamber.com

Business After Hours

Stacy

815.316.4302

smullins@rockfordchamber.com

Business Women’s Council

Stacy

815.316.4302

smullins@rockfordchamber.com

Certificates of Origin

Vee

815.316.4337

vjevremovic@rockfordchamber.com

Education Council

Vee

815.316.4337

vjevremovic@rockfordchamber.com

E-mail Newsletters

Doug

815.316.4338

editor@rockfordchamber.com

Good Morning Rockford!

Stacy

815.316.4302

smullins@rockfordchamber.com

Government Affairs Council

Einar

815.987.8100

eforsman@rockfordchamber.com

Lead 360

Diane

815.316.4315

dnavickis@rockfordchamber.com

Leadership Rockford

Vee

815.316.4337

vjevremovic@rockfordchamber.com

Manufacturers Council

Vee

815.316.4337

vjevremovic@rockfordchamber.com

Einar

815.987.8100

eforsman@rockfordchamber.com

Mary Ann

815.316.4336

msuprenant@rockfordchamber.com

Membership (Existing Members)

Diane

815.316.4315

dnavickis@rockfordchamber.com

Multicultural Business Council

Einar

815.987.8100

eforsman@rockfordchamber.com

Public Education Council

Einar

815.987.8100

eforsman@rockfordchamber.com

Relocation Information/Maps

Cyndie

815.987.8100

cservice@rockfordchamber.com

Ribbon-Cuttings

Heidi

815.316.4312 hgarner@rockfordchamber.com

Special Events

Stacy

815.316.4302

Accounts Payable/Receivable

Media Calls Membership (New Members)

Sponsorships

Lynette

E-mail Address

smullins@rockfordchamber.com

815.316.4317 ljacques@rockfordchamber.com

The VOICE (editorial/distribution)

Doug

815.316.4338

rockfordchamber.com

Doug

815.316.4338 dhessong@rockfordchamber.com

IGNITE - Young Professionals

815.987.8100

dhessong@rockfordchamber.com

igniterockford.com 2014 Community Relocation Guide

59

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

Alpine Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Rock River Valley Blood Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Anderson Automotive Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Rock Valley College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Brian Thomas Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Rockford Bank & Trust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Charles Schwab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Rockford Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Concordia University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Rockford Public Schools, District #205 . . . . . . 27

FurstStaffing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Stockholm Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Leading Lawyers Network . . . . Inside Front Cover

SwedishAmerican Health System . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

MembersAlliance Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Thayer Lighting, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Meridian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

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

Miller Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

University Club of Rockford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Northern Illinois University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Upper Iowa University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

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

Upstream Investment Partners . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Woodward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Pierce Laminated Products, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Riverside Community Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

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Rockford Chamber of Commerce - rockfordchamber.com