2018 Rockford Chamber Yearbook

Building leaders

attracting and r e ta i n i n g workforce strengthening

community

establishing networks

gro wi n g business: Rockford Chamber

of Commerce

YEARBOOK 2018

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rockfordchamber.com - ROCKFORD CHAMBER

308 West State Street, Suite 190 Rockford, Illinois 61101 815.987.8100 815.987.8122 fax info@rockfordchamber.com rockfordchamber.com Writers/Editors Barbara Connors Caitlin Pusateri Layout/Design/Production Doug Hessong

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Table of Contents

A Letter to Chamber Members . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

What We Do . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Business Growth

Partnerships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8

Caught On Digital! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-15

Business Luncheon Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Business Advocacy

Advocacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Leadership

Yearbook Sponsor Professional Graphics Inc.

Rockford Leadership Alliance . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19

Leadership Rockford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Advertising Sales Lynette Jacques

Lead 360 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

People You Should Know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Database Manager Joan Sundvall Photography Brian Thomas Photography and the Rockford Chamber Staff

IGNITE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23-24

Professional Development

2018 Events & Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25-30

Looking to 2019

The 2019 Board of Directors . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-33

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

Advertising Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Advertiser's Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

35-44

ABOUT THIS BOOK - The 2018 Rockford Chamber of Commerce Yearbook is published by the Rockford Chamber of Commerce. Every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy.

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce does not assume any responsibility for errors or omissions which may occur.

FOR MORE INFORMATION - Contact the Rockford Chamber of Commerce, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190, Rockford, IL 61101, 815-987-8100, fax 815-987-8122, or e-mail at info@ rockfordchamber.com. For advertising information call Lynette Jacques, Vice President, Member Investment at 815-316-4317.

Š Copyright 2019 Rockford Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced without expressed written permission of the Rockford Chamber.

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Dear Valued Chamber Members, 2018 was a great year! For our entire region, it appears as if many long sought after objectives were being realized. We have a vibrant downtown, robust jobs, business expansions, and so many, many other great stories. That is the same for the Rockford Chamber as well.

Our investments to support our members have been really paying off. In this yearbook you will get a snapshot of all of the wonderful activities and initiatives we engaged in to support and grow the Rockford region’s business community. We are grateful for the involvement and support our members provide in creating a healthy business environment.

Leadership Development During 2018, the Rockford Chamber kicked off its third year of the Rockford Leadership Alliance by featuring Joseph Grenny, renowned thought leader who gave us “Crucial Accountability.” 2018 represents the third leg of our five-year program to inspire, grow, and produce effective and positive leaders throughout the spectrum. Through our first three years of the Leadership Alliance, we have had over 600 unique participants in this critical program who are building their leadership skills for personal and business development.

Pro-Business Environment As the business community’s public policy voice, with 1,200 members strong representing a workforce of 60,000, the Rockford Chamber remains committed to public policy and political action that is good for business. We also engage in many government affairs activities to connect the needs of business to our public policy makers. The Chamber was one of the first to support the Restoring Home Rule proposal for Rockford, to put more local control in our hands. Ultimately, that proposal did not gain the voter support it needed, but it certainly did not stop us from seeking a stronger local voice for Rockford.

Small Business Development Business growth is a key reason why we have a Chamber, and we believe small businesses are at the very core of a strong local economy. The Chamber is excited to have launched the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) two years ago. 2018 was our first full year as an SBDC and we have witnessed tremendous growth and interest from those seeking to start and grow their own business. Halfway through 2018 we had already met or exceeded most of our goals established by the Small Business Administration!

Workforce Development Finding quality workforce remains a critical issue for growing our economy. Developing a talented, quality workforce remains an imperative in Rockford, as it does in many urban areas. The Rockford Chamber has collaborated with other agencies to develop a stronger talent pipeline addressing core workforce weaknesses (soft skills) and industry-specific demands as well (engineering, aerospace, machining, and healthcare).

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For 2019, the Chamber will continue to offer its valued events, educational programs, publications and services to advance members’ economic growth and professional development, advocate for an inclusive, pro-business environment and cultivate business connections. We encourage you to review the entire Yearbook to learn what the Rockford Chamber is doing for its members and the community.

Stay tuned for more information in this publication, The Voice and social media, or call 815-987-8100 for questions on how you can get involved in any of these key priorities.

2019 is going to be an exciting year!

Sincerely,

Michele Petrie

Board Chairman 2019

Einar K. Forsman President & CEO

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Crime and Safety Progress on Crime in our community is showing positive results from a crime statistic perspective, with significant drops in many areas. However, the areas of violence and perception of a lack of a safe environment persists to this day. Having said that, we have worked with the City of Rockford and Winnebago County in these areas to help articulate the strategies being carried out and are encouraged by the wonderful collaborations that have been formed.

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GROWTH Connections, Networking, Business Referrals and Illinois Small Business Development Council (SBDC)

LEADERSHIP

EDUCATION Resources and Tools to Strengthen Your Business through Workshops, Forums and Seminars

Develop Skills that Foster Leadership through Our Center for Leadership Development

ACCESS Connects You to Elected Officials and Community Leaders

WHAT WE DO VALUE Access to Member-Only Discounts Saves You Money

Unified Political Voice to Advance Business Priorities to Local, State and National Legislators

Increased Exposure through Our Publications, Websites, Social Media, and Sponsorships

VISIBILITY

Consumers are 80% More Likely to Patronize a Business They Believe is a Chamber Member

ADVOCACY

(The Shapiro Group Study)

CREDIBILITY

Why Rockford Chamber of Commerce?

"At Arc Design Resources, part of our mission is to help our clients excel at their core business. The Rockford Chamber of Commerce is an organization that helps us do exactly that. The Chamber is never satisfied with the status quo and engages businesses into a real community that is driven to make the Rockford region strong and attractive to businesses and people of all ages."

Joe Altenhoff, Arc Design Resources, Inc. 6

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The Rockford Chamber participated in the confluence concept, collaborating with organizations across the community

Small Business Development Center - Putting Small Business First

The Rockford Chamber hosts an Illinois Small Business Development Center to help launch new businesses, thanks to a combination of State of Illinois DCEO SBA program grants, Rockford Chamber funding and support from NIU Rockford and local lending institutions. It operates out of NIU EIGERlab at NIU-Rockford, 8500 E. State St., and at the chamber office downtown.

Services are free to aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners in the Rockford area -- chamber members and nonmembers.

• One-on-one business advice and management assistance.

• Assistance with the development of business plans.

• Help with accessing market information and development of marketing plans.

• Assistance with accessing business financing programs.

• Assistance with financial analysis and planning.

• Access to business education and training opportunities.

• Specialized services in technology, innovation, entrepreneurial development, website development and social media marketing.

By the Numbers The SBDC has 16 performance metrics by which it’s measured; provided by the state coordinators and the state director.

A Few Areas of Measurement for 2018 (through early October)

Jobs Created Jobs Retained Business Starts Business Expansions Dollar Amount Debt Financing Clients Advised Total Client Hours Long Term Clients Average Hours/Client Advised

Goal 14 20 8 3 1.400K 98 1,100 14 7.0

Accomplished 35 26 12 3 1.825K 142 1,231 76 8.44

SBDC Partners with Rockford Public Library Rockford Public Library and the SBDC have partnered to offer a series of live and digital courses to teach you how to turn your great idea into a thriving, profitable business.

• Executive Summary Basics • Marketing Plan Basics • Financing & Accounting Basics

Call 815-987-6639 or visit rockfordpubliclibrary.org/business-building-basics.

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Partnerships

Harold “Bo” Boger is the director for the Illinois SBDC at the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Contact him at SBDC@rockfordchamber.com or 815-316-4301.

Edward Caceres is a consultant and Spanish bilingual with the Illinois SBDC at the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Contact him at Edward.SBDC@rockfordchamber.com or 815-566-1953.

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Manufacturing DaySM, Oct. 11

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Rockford area manufacturers participated again in National Manufacturing Day. On Oct. 11, they opened their doors to show future generations the opportunity that comes with a career in the industry. More than 400 students from 12 area high schools toured one of 14 participating manufacturing facilities and then convened at Giovanni’s for a Rockford Chamber program and manufacturing expo that included a welcome by Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara.

"The current momentum of the Chamber continues to be focused on our business community.

Almost all businesses started as small businesses. How fitting to focus on the next generation of hard-working innovators who are willing to invest their dreams in our community. The rewards will be a part of our community legacy for decades."

- Richard Zumwalt, chairman, Rockford Chamber board

Thank You to Our Hosts for the 2018 Manufacturing Day in Our Region: 425 MFG AME Accurate Metal, Illinois AMI Bergstrom

Ingersoll Cutting Tools Parker Hannifin Rockford Linear Actuation Rockford Toolcraft

Thermofisher Scientific Triangle Metals Woodward

Thank You to the Participating Schools: Boylan Catholic High School Byron High School Harlem High School Hononegah High School

Regional Alternative School Rockford Auburn High School Rockford East High School Rockford Guilford High School

Rockford Jefferson High School Rockford Roosevelt High School Stillman Valley High School

Giovanni’s, Inc. Illinois Bank & Trust Noon Lions Club Rock Town Products Rock Town Consulting Rock Valley Heritage Kiwanis

Rockford Kiwanis Triangle Metals Woodward

and, Thank You to the Sponsors: Alpine Kiwanis Bergstrom CEANCI (Career Education Associates of North Central Illinois) Community Foundation of Northern Illinois

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Caught on Digital!

Always a celebration, ribbon cuttings and ground breakings represented grand openings and expansions for member businesses in 2018

Blackhawk Bank cut the ceremonial red ribbon celebrating the grand opening of its new Janesville banking center at 2525 Milton Ave., on Jan. 24.

Rockford Public Library held a ribbon cutting on Feb. 14 to celebrate the complete movein to its new downtown location at the Hart Interim Library, 214 N. Church St.

SwedishAmerican Heart Institute held an open house/ribbon cutting on Thursday, Feb. 15 at 1340 Charles St., #300, Rockford.

Tasty Tidbits Culinary Services, LLC, held a ribbon cutting and open house on Friday, Feb. 16 at 1222 S. Alpine Road, Rockford.

SwedishAmerican broke ground on its new $24-million, 70,000-sq.-ft. Creekside Medical Center at 3505 N. Bell School Road, Rockford. Completion is slated for spring 2019.

Northwest Bank executives, board members and local officials broke ground on Northwest Bank’s major new banking facility at 4402 Peak Drive, on the corner of Perryville Road and Broadcast Parkway in Loves Park.

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OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center held a ribbon cutting and open house on April 5 for the North Tower at 5666 E. State St., Rockford.

Rockford Art Deli held a press conference on April 5 at 402 E. State St. Owners shared details as co-founders of a new t-shirt manufacturing company, Allmade.

MOD Pizza held a ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration on April 12 at 6470 E. State St., Rockford.

Keller Williams Realty Signature held a ribbon cutting and open house on April 12 at 4201 Galleria Dr., Loves Park.

Rockford Christian Schools broke ground on April 13 on an expansion project at its Bell School Road campus with an indoor fitness and recreation facility, center for the arts, theater and 200-bed residence hall for students from around the nation and world.

Habitat for Humanity ReStore held a ribbon cutting on April 20 for its new location at 7141 Harrison Ave., Rockford.

Comfort Keepers held a ribbon cutting and open house on April 27 at 4855 E. State St., Manhattan Plaza, Rockford.

Cheri Bustos, 17th Congressional District of Illinois Local Office, held a ribbon cutting and open house on May 3 at 119 N. Church St., Rockford.

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State Sen. Dave Syverson (R-Rockford) and State Rep. Bob Pritchard (R-Hinckley) welcomed members of the Belvidere Fire Department to the State Capitol on May 8 to honor the firefighters for saving eight individuals during a March 2017 fire on West Jackson Street.

Area teachers dressed up in pie costumes as a part of McTeacher’s Night, a family fundraiser for Maple Elementary School at McDonald’s at 3858 Northridge Dr., on May 8.

Express Employment Professionals held a ribbon cutting on May 31 at 2477 Eastrock Dr., Rockford.

White Pines Retreat Center held a ribbon cutting and grand opening on June 4 at 6712 W. Pines Road, Mount Morris, Ill.

Chastain & Associates LLC held a ribbon cutting on June 6 at 6832 Stalter Dr., Ste. 100, Rockford.

Riverview Inn & Suites at Cliffbreakers held a ribbon cutting and open house on June 15 at 700 W. Riverside Blvd., Rockford; showcasing its completed renovations, including an upgraded ballrooms and 84 newly decorated and remodeled hotel rooms.

Hennig, Inc., held a ribbon cutting on June 19 at 9900 N. Alpine Road, Machesney Park.

Advanced Machine & Engineering Co. (AME) held a ribbon cutting on June 20 at 2500 Latham St., Rockford.

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Mercyhealth held a ribbon cutting for the new Mercyhealth Alpine clinic in Loves Park on June 20, which replaced the existing clinic next door.

Mercyhealth Occupational Health and Wellness introduced its new Mobile Health Clinic at the Mercyhealth Alpine ribbon cutting on June 20.

Chicago Rockford International Airport held a groundbreaking on July 2 for its new building expansion at the Cargo Center and the start of construction for a new $3.5 million ramp for cargo aircraft parking.

State Farm Insurance - Brian Pinkstaff held a ribbon cutting and grand opening on July 11 at 3957 W. Riverside Blvd., Rockford.

Lifescape Community Services hosted a ribbon cutting with the Sauk Valley Chamber of Commerce on July 11 for its new Rock Falls location at 206 Dixon Ave.

Specialty Screw Corporation hosted a ground-breaking ceremony for a $2.5 million, 20,000-sq.-ft. addition and plans to hire an additional 10 employees.

SwedishAmerican, a division of UW Health, broke ground July 23 on its new special procedures catheterization laboratory expansion for interventional cardiology, interventional radiology and peripheral vascular procedures on the hospital’s downtown campus.

Mercyhealth held a press conference at its new Riverside campus on July 25, celebrating its designation from the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services as the only state-designated children’s hospital in the northern Illinois region.

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Rockford Rescue Mission held a community dedication July 27 for its new William Howard and Lucille D. Dittmar Performing Arts Center.

Pizza Hut held a ribbon cutting on July 30 at a new location, 575 S. Perryville Road, Rockford.

SwedishAmerican, a division of UW Health, broke ground Aug. 2 on its Women and Children’s Tower. It includes a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and secure NICU rooftop healing garden for patients and families.

Rosecrance Marlowe House received a $4,000 grant Aug. 17 from Daniel Schmitt, Freeport Community Foundation, and Dick and Marianne Drogosz, founders of the John M. Drogosz Memorial Fund, to update fitness equipment.

SwedishAmerican, A Division of UW Health, held a topping out ceremony Aug. 22; placing the top steel beam on Creekside Medical Center at 3505 N. Bell School Road, adjacent to the Regional Cancer Center.

Ring Container Technologies held a ribbon cutting and open house on Aug. 23 at 4689 Assembly Dr., Rockford.

Edward Jones - Trina Bankord Andersen, held a ribbon cutting and open house on Aug. 23 at 109 N. Show Place Dr., Ste. 1, Rockford.

Rockford Park District hosted a ribbon cutting on Sept. 12 at Aldeen Golf Club for the completion of Rockford Bank & Trust Pavilion, 1868 Reid Farm Road. The 9,000-sq.ft. facility holds 250.

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Circle of Wellness hosted a ribbon cutting and open house on Sept. 18 at 3626 E. State St., Rockford.

Baird Wealth Management hosted an open house and ribbon cutting on Sept. 19 at 2601 Reid Farm Road, Rockford.

Fastsigns of Rockford hosted a ribbon cutting on Sept. 25 at 7310 Walton St., Ste. C, Rockford.

Christina Rae Salon Spa Ltd., held a ribbon cutting on Oct. 1 at 109 N. Showplace Dr., Ste. 113, Rockford.

Rockford OMS held a ribbon cutting on Oct. 5 at 449 Roxbury Road.

Getz Fire Equipment held a grand opening and ribbon cutting on Oct. 10 at 2420 Harrison Ave., Rockford.

Empowering Word Christian Center held a ribbon cutting on Oct. 12 at 4010 E. State St., Rockford.

Siena on Brendenwood held an open house and ribbon cutting on Oct. 17 at 4444 Brendenwood Road, Rockford.

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Security First Title Company held a ribbon cutting and open house on Oct. 18 at 3963 W. Riverside Blvd., Rockford.

Infinite Soul Vibrations held a ribbon cutting on Oct. 24 at 333 E. State St., Ste. 108, Rockford.

Heartland Hospice held a ribbon cutting on Nov. 13 at 6000 E. State St., Ste. 100, Rockford.

PCI Clinical Services hosted a groundbreaking Nov. 13 at Plant 2, 4545 Assembly Dr., Rockford to mark the beginning of construction of an expansion for clinical trial packaging and labeling and office space.

Porter Pipe & Supply Co., held a ribbon cutting and grand opening on Nov. 14 at 284 Eastrock Dr., Rockford.

Stayceez Dollar Shop held a ribbon cutting on Nov. 20 at 5811 N. Forest Hills Road, Ste. 2, Rockford.

New Horizons Coaching Corp., held a ribbon cutting on Nov. 28 at 309 Mulberry St., Ste. C, Rockford.

2018 Rockford Chamber Ambassadors Happy New Year!

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Business Luncheon Series Presented by BMO Harris Bank, the Business Luncheon Series puts to action the Chamber’s commitment to build leaders, workforce, community, networks and business. With topic-driven agendas focused on issues important to business success, the Business Luncheon Series creates a space for members to engage, network and grow.

The State of Small Business Breakfast Nothing’s bigger than small business. America’s job opportunities come from small business employers – 67% of them actually. In celebration and support of small business, The State of Small Business Breakfast featured three thriving local business owners who shared their stories of success: Teri Sharp, American Precision Supply; Matt Aukes, Carz R’ Us – General Automotive & Tires; and Chris Manuel, CMM & Associates and Prairie Street Brewing Co. The panel took place on February 22 at Prairie Street Brewing Company.

State of the County Winnebago County is one of the largest, most complex and economically and ethnically diverse counties in the Midwest. Few units of government touch more aspects of our daily lives, both personally and in business, than county government. Winnebago County Board Chairman Frank Haney covered topics from deficit spending and public safety to getting young people ready for leadership at his second-annual State of the County address on March 21 at Giovanni’s Restaurant & Convention Center.

Education Outlook Luncheon Making Rockford Public Schools the first choice for all families is a vital component in the Rockford region becoming one of the nation’s top communities. RPS 205 educates more than 28,500 students in 44 schools. It is the second-largest employer in the Rockford region and among the largest school districts in Illinois.

During the Education Outlook luncheon, Superintendent Ehren Jarrett outlined the district’s progress toward that vision at the September 6 luncheon at the Radisson Hotel & Convention Center.

Heartbeat of Healthcare Ever changing, healthcare remains a core component of both the business community and the community at large. The Heartbeat of Healthcare, held on October 18 at the Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, examined the vitals of the industry and our community. This year, the event focused on The University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford - an organization who continues to make exciting strides forward. Dr. Alex Stagnaro-Green, dean of the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford, touched on research being done at the college, including research that has resulted in a new vaccine for shingles, Shingrix; a vaccine for lymphatic filariasis; and innovative stem cell technology to treat and potentially cure infants and toddlers with spinal muscular atrophy.

Mayor’s Business Address Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara offered a comprehensive update on his administration’s first 18 months in office and his efforts to strengthen the business community at the Mayor’s Business Address on Nov. 15 at Giovanni’s Restaurant and Convention Center. As strong advocate for the region with a firm belief in the importance of community service, he focused on public safety, strengthening neighborhoods and encouraging economic development.

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The Rockford Chamber supports issues that contribute to strengthening the overall business climate

Government Affairs Council

The Government Affairs Council met monthly at Stockholm Inn in 2018 to discuss public policy issues to present a collective and powerful business perspective to elected officials.

ROCPAC, the business community’s public policy voice

The political action committee ROCPAC, representing the Rockford Chamber’s 1,200+ members and a workforce of 60,000, committed itself to political action.

Making Rockford a Home Rule City

The Rockford Chamber Board of Directors voted to endorse the March 20, 2018 referendum to restore Home Rule powers to the City of Rockford at its Jan. 23 meeting. The vote followed two extensive review sessions with Mayor McNamara and representatives from the citizens’ advocacy committee, Our Decisions — Our Solutions. The Government Affairs Council was the chamber’s vetting body and made its recommendations to the chamber board.

Home Rule Question (March 20, 2018 Election) No 53.64% Yes 46.36%

Source: Rockford Board of Elections

The goal was to shift decision making from the state to the local level on initiatives and ordinances in areas such as building, zoning, sanitation, public health, civil disturbances, quality of life, safety and welfare.

The chamber set up a webpage as an objective resource center on the Home Rule issue.

"If you look at the state and Washington, it’s dysfunctional. Outside of our local delegations, Rockford is not their top priority. We need to take ownership. Home rule will help us reduce our reliance on property tax, and it will strengthen our neighborhoods."

– Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara at his first business address to chamber membership on Nov. 16, 2017

Consolidation of County Offices The Rockford Chamber Board of Directors also voted to endorse the proposed consolidation of the Winnebago County Clerk and County Recorder of Deeds Offices at its Feb. 27 meeting.

The question placed before county voters on the March 20 ballot was: “Shall the office of the Recorder of Deeds of Winnebago County be eliminated and all the duties and responsibilities of the office of the Recorder of Deeds be transferred to, and assumed by, the office of the County Clerk of Winnebago County on December 1, 2020?”

In Illinois, more than 70 percent of counties take advantage of a single office. While initial cost savings may not be the primary reason for consolidating, it would save more than $100,000 annually in costs.

Register of Deeds Question

Election Office Consolidation

(March 20, 2018 Election) Yes 73.92% No 26.08%

(Nov. 6, 2018 Election) Yes 71.62% No 28.38%

Source: Rockford Board of Elections

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Advocacy

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Rockford Leadership Alliance

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Rockford Leadership Alliance (RLA) is a focused, thematic leadership development program designed for business executives and high potential leaders in the Rockford region. The RLA’s annual focus is oriented towards addressing critical leadership gaps identified in the Rockford business community.

2018/2019 Accountability:

When others let us down, break rules, fail to deliver on their promises or behave badly, what do we do?

Unfortunately, most people choose to say nothing. In fact, research shows people waste $1,500 and an 8-hour workday every time they avoid an accountability conversation.

However, in organizations that build cultures of accountability, people raise concerns with those beside, above and below them on the organizational chart. As a result, problems are solved routinely and quickly and a pervasive sense of empowerment and responsibility for results prevails.

Building on our past topics of Trust & Organizational Health, RLA turned its focus to Accountability in 2018/2019.

RLA 2018/2019 was kicked off by New York Times Bestselling Author Joseph Grenny. He lead a workshop entitled Accountability: Bridging the Gap Between Expectations and Results based on his book Crucial Accountability. Participants continued their accountability studies throughout 2018 and into 2019 with facilitated half-day workshop led

by The Anser Group.

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Facilitated by:

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Rockford Leadership Alliance Investors Thank you to our 2018/2019 investors who made this program possible:

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Leadership Rockford

Celebration of Leadership Luncheon

Designed to provide a holistic understanding of the Rockford community, Leadership Rockford is an 8-month program suitable for emerging leaders, leaders new to the community, or leaders eager to become more involved in the Rockford region. Members of the class represent a wide range of backgrounds, organizations, and levels of experience. The diversity of the class forms a dynamic cross-section of personal and professional viewpoints and perspectives. Whether a life-long resident of the community or a newcomer, Leadership Rockford provides each participant with an in-depth understanding of the local community, including its history, opportunities and successes.

The mission of Leadership Rockford is to build leadership skills and enhance awareness of business, government and civic issues through interaction and direct involvement with business and community leaders.

On May 10, 41 graduates representing the 64th Class of Leadership Rockford, presented by PNC Bank, were welcomed into the ranks of alumni at Tebala Event Center at the Celebration of Leadership Luncheon. They joined 1,810 others who have been a part of this program since 1967.

2017-2018 Leadership Rockford Class:

Tareq Abdel Rahim, Larson & Darby; Alli Bernardi, ALPHA Controls & Services LLC; Matthew Flores, City of Rockford; Tami Kellerman, Agrace Hospice & Palliative Care; Greg Lundquist, Blackhawk Bank; Jennifer Borg, Alpine Bank; Alex Campbell, The Morrissey Family Businesses; Lynette Castronovo, Saint Anthony College of Nursing; Haley Galarza, City of Rockford; Peter Schmeling, Schmeling Construction; Alex Johansson, Specialty Screw; Jennifer Johns, Mercyhealth; Audrey Moon, WREX; Shondra Wandell, Alpine Bank; Karl Franzen, City of Rockford; Ross Grimes, Fehr Graham; Michelle Huber, Dickerson & Nieman Realtors; Stephen Lorence, Savant Capital Management; Emma Robbins, MACO-sys, LLC; Brian Hintzsche, RSM; Alaina Levins, Dickerson & Nieman Realtors; Mark Robinson, SwedishAmerican, A Division of UW Health; Sydney Turner, Region 1 Planning; Lakithia Williams, UTC Aerospace; Mary-Katherine Kladar, Woodward, Inc.; Eric Magnuson, US Bank; Margo Stedman, Rockford Symphony Orchestra; Xavier Whitford, City of Rockford; Irma Contreras, Woodward; Klint Kruse, Scandroli Construction Company; Butch Rosecke, Mr. Goodwater; Amy Sola, Associated Bank; Shamika Williams, KFACT, Inc.; Ryan Duvall, OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center; MJ LaMonica, LaMonica Beverages; Julie Smith, City of Rockford; Rebecca White Newgren, SecondFirst Church; Monica Bayne, Rockford Public Schools, District #205; Raed Salem, Larson & Darby; Lindsey Truax, PNC Bank; Stacy Wallace, V2 Marketing & Communications. 2017/2018 Class Moderators: Michelle Angileri, Savant Capital Management; Becky Hopper, SwedishAmerican, A Division of UW Health; Carly LaMonica, LaMonica Beverages

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Lead 360 Members include: Debra Adkins, Jennifer Anderson, Pam Appino, Kim Blascoe, Jan Bowman, Amy Brewer, Karen Brown, Kimberly Bruce, Susan Busenbark, Jedediah Cantrell, Paula Carynski, Jean Crosby, Kelly Davit, Anna Derocher, Lori Diaz, Michele Diedrichs, Courtney Geiger, Linda Gerber, Lorrie Gitz, Mary Jo Hare, Sherry Harlan, Emily Hartzog, June Hazzard, Barb Held, Bobbie Holzwarth, Shurice Hunter, Lynette Jacques, Saba Jaffery, Lisa Johnson, Kris Kieper-Machajewski, Tina Lake, Penny Lechtenberg, Betsy Makris, Tonya Markert, Melissa McCormick, Dawna Menke, Jodi Miller, Laurie Miller, Joy Moriarty, Marcia Mueller, Diane Navickis, Kathy Olson, Amy Ott, Christina Ott, Michele Petrie, Betsy Pierson, Michelle Polivka, Caitlin Pusateri, Denise Sasse, Kathy Schier, Sue Schrieber, Martina Schumaker, Teri Sharp, Sandie Soldwisch, Maribeth Speckman, Heather Spillare, Lynn Stainbrook, Samantha Stovall, Patti Thayer, Judy Thompson, Kathy Velasco, Janis Waddell, Peg Wartowski, Jennifer Whiteford, Kika Young, Julia Zimmerman, Tammy Zurfluh

Lead 360 brought 67 top executive-level chamber member women together throughout the year. These C-Suite, presidents, vice presidents, business owners and general decision makers in their organizations worked towards expanding the impact and influence of woman business leaders in the Rockford Region.

leadership

Lead 360

This year, participants heard from four speakers. In March, Sofia Pereria (SheShouldRun.org) spoke on “250,000 Women Running for Elected Office by 2030.” June brought Sandra Walston Ford to speak on “Women United in Courage.” In October, Catherine Malloy Cummings spoke on “Igniting Team Performance.” The year closed with Mary LoVerde speaking on “I Used to Have a Handle On Life But It Broke.” Programming was well diversified and met the unique needs of executive level women.

Participation in Lead 360 is open to executive-level women who meet the outlined criteria found at rockfordchamber.com

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People You Should Know

The Rockford Chamber unveiled the 2018 20 People You Should Know during a reception on Nov. 1 at the Tebala Event Center. Since People You Should Know started in 2011, the program has honored six classes of 121 leaders. This year’s class featured eight women and 12 men representing industries including healthcare, government, nonprofits, finance, education, manufacturing and professional services, presented by workplace.

"We have many people in our community who are doing great things every day, either for their company or for the community. The community may not know about them, but they should respect and appreciate them."

-- Einar Forsman, Rockford Chamber

Introducing the 2018 People You Should Know Sheena Amble, Rockford Fire Department

Thelma Baker, OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center

Benjamin Bernsten, Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois

Lesly Couper, Rockford Bank & Trust

Ray Davis, MD University of Illinois College of Medicine

Eric W. Fulcomer, Ph.D. Rockford University

Willy Goellner, Advanced Machine & Engineering Co./Hennig, Inc.

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David Gomel, Ph.D. Rosecrance Inc.

Anisha Grimmett, Alignment Rockford

LuAnn Groh, Community Foundation of Northern Illinois

Mick Gronewold, Fehr Graham

Andrew Hendrickson, RSM US LLP

Brian Knabe, MD

John T. Saunders, Larson & Darby Group

David Sidney, Transform Rockford

Lynn Stainbrook, Rockford Public Library

Tiffany Staman, The Pregnancy Care Center of Rockford

Jason Todd, Thinker Ventures

Linda Zuba, Zuba & Associates, P.C.

Savant Capital Management

Brent Pentenburg, YMCA of Rock River Valley

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leadership

IGNITE

IGNITE hosts events and opportunities to attract, engage and retain young professionals to the Rockford Region

IGNITE Cup

IGNITE Cup’s fifth anniversary took place in 2018 and was comprised of 20 teams of ten young professionals competing in a series of summer events.

The packed kick-off in April at Abreo lead to a fun night of bowling at Don Carter Lanes and a competitive game night at MauhNah-Tee-See. In June, a Mini Putt competition at Volcano Falls was followed by a throwback to elementary school days with a Field Day at the Northeast Branch YMCA. IGNITE also partnered with the YMCA for canoe battleship, a water-filled battle that’s always a favorite among competitors. In August, Rockford Country Club hosted us for a crazy hat themed trivia night.

Returning from its premiere in 2017, was Penny Wars. IGNITE’s INVOLVE board has pushed this initiative to add a charitable aspect to our summer fun. Each team was allowed to pick a non-profit chamber member of its choice to represent and fight for in the 2018 competition. In Penny Wars, positive points are earned by the team putting coins in their own jar and negative

points are given to a team when a different team puts bills in their jar. The top three teams with positive points saw all of the money collected distributed to their charities!

IGNITE Cup teams raised just under $2,600 this year—more than double what was collected last year ($1,000)! The first place winner for penny wars, Team Medicinal Unicorns, were able to donate $1,700 to The Haven Network, followed by Team New Kids on the Rock donating $550 to United Way and Team A Team Has No Name donating $330 to Friends of the Coronado!

To bring the summer to an end, our closing ceremonies took place on the docks at Prairie Street Brewing Co. where our winners were announced on stage!

2018 IGNITE Cup Winners

Medicinal Unicorns - 1st Place

Rockford Float Club - 2nd Place

Steve is a Traitor - 3rd Place Special thanks to IGNITE Cup sponsors: Blackhawk Bank (Gold Sponsor), as well as Crusader Community Health, RSM, and Wipfli (Silver Sponsors).

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INVOLVE, REACH, EDUCATE

IGNITE’s three boards work together to create the best opportunities for our members in the areas of personal and professional development, service, and connection to the community.

INVOLVE (volunteer) Our INVOLVE team focuses on creating awareness of local service opportunities for our members and hosts drives at our After 5s every other month. In 2018, our drives helped give back to six unique organizations - including The Literacy Council, Remedies Renewing Lives, and Rockford Public Schools.

REACH (social) REACH consistently offers our members personal networking opportunities through our monthly After 5s. Our After 5s also allow our members to visit different restaurants in the community. In 2018, some of these venues included: Tavern on Clark, Cliffbreakers, Aero Ale House, and Greenfire! Some of our other fun events included a free laser tag night hosted by Laser Quest Rockford and a City Market Meet-Up on RAMP’s patio!

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EDUCATE (professional development) Our EDUCATE team has always organized our popular monthly Lunch with a Leader event! Inviting local CEO’s and leaders to come sit down for a casual lunch allows for an intimate setting where connections are created and personalized questions can be asked! A few of our leaders who shared their own leadership journey with us were Dr. Michael Born, Larry Morrissey, and Mick Gronewold!

A successful new event series, Adulting 101, also emerged this year and was sponsored by Blackhawk Bank. This fun series allows our members to attend sessions lead by local experts that break down the basics of different topics no one really teaches you before you enter the world of “being an adult”. Some of the topics included: Finance 101, Homebuying 101 lead by Blackhawk Bank, and All Things Cars hosted by Buttita Brothers.

Visit igniterockford.com

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Each year, the Rockford Chamber provides a robust calendar of opportunities and events for members to build networks, grow business and engage in the community. 2018 was no exception as members took advantage of all the Chamber had to offer

Annual Dinner The Annual Dinner, presented by OSF Healthcare, kicked 2018 off on January 25 at Giovanni’s Restaurant & Convention Center with keynote speaker Bill Graham, Graham Corporate Communications. Focused on The Power of Likable Leadership, 800 attendees found practical applications amidst humor in Graham’s message.

During the event, Bill Roop, CEO of Alpine Bank was honored as Citizen of the Year. Roop has spent more than four decades in the financial industry, including 32 years at Alpine Bank. He has volunteered for the Rockford Area Economic Development Council, Rockford Boys & Girls Club, Rockford Rescue Mission and Rockford Area Crime Stoppers, among others. He also brought together competing banks to create a $17 million line of credit to ensure the AAR was completed at the Chicago Rockford International Airport.

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2018 Events & Awards

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Celebration of Manufacturing Expo and Dinner As the bedrock of our community, manufacturing is vital to our region’s success. At the Celebration of Manufacturing Expo & Dinner presented by QPS Employment Group on April 25 at Giovanni’s Restaurant & Convention Center, we showcased and celebrated the power of our factory floors – both the machines and the men and women who run them. In a sold-out room, manufacturers and supporters of the industry immersed themselves in manufacturing through an on-site as well as a video expo and a message from keynote speaker Dr. Federico Sciammarella, chair of mechanical engineering at Northern Illinois University.

During the evening celebration, Advanced Machine & Engineering (AME) was honored as Manufacturer of the Year and Don Williams of Rock River Valley Tooling & Machining Association was honored as Business Catalyst of the Year.

Golf Classic After a torrential downpour scratched the traditional May date, 148 golfers enjoyed a beautiful day August 27 on the links at The MauhNah-Tee-See Club. Hole sponsors engaged with golfers on the course in a fun and spirited manner. Among the day’s favorites was an Irish Pub, hosted by the Rockford Chamber, to coincide with the day’s “On the Map” theme.

Presenting Sponsor: Stratus Network/AT&T Partner Exchange

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Women-in-Business Expo and Luncheon According to the National Association of Women Business Owners, there are nationally more than 11.6 million businesses are owned by women, employing nearly 9 million people, and generating $1.7 trillion in sales as of 2017.

Clearly, women are one of the keys to success in our economy. The Women In Business Expo & Luncheon presented by Mercyhealth, celebrated the role women play in business while outlining the need for an increase in women holding senior-level positions and corporate board seats across the country through keynote speaker Jill Manzo’s, Illinois Economic Policy Institute, address: “Women in High-Ranking Position: The Few, The Need and the Path Forward.” Guests also engaged in an Expo of women-owned and women-supported businesses in the newly remodeled Cliffbreakers.

In the spirit of celebrating women, three outstanding women were honored during the event: Woman Business Leader of Tomorrow: Jocelyn Hare, SERVPRO of Rockford Woman Manager of the Year: Kathryn Pearce, Mercyhealth Woman Business Owner of the Year: Laurie Miller, 2HB Human Resources and Benefits Solutions

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On a beautiful summer evening on July 12, the Rockford Chamber celebrated its 108th birthday with a free, community event in downtown Rockford. Prime Time Live Band entertained, Blue Line provided food and beverages, Rockford Art Deli made vintage Rockford Chamber t-shirts and Toad Hall shared a reproduction of a 1917 Chamber publication.

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Presented by: Rockford University

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Founders’ Day Block Party

Rockford Chamber of Commerce

2015

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Business After Hours

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The prime place for connecting, exhibitors and attendees at The Exposition experienced Rockford’s vibrant and unique business community during an energizing afternoon of opportunity and exposure. Spotlighting 70 Chamber members, The Exposition offered an opportunity for connection, networking, and business growth for all involved at the beautiful downtown UW Health Sports Factory on September 27.

During the event, participants were able to take advantage of the knowledge of LinkedIn Expert Wayne Breitbarth during his presentation “Using LinkedIn to Generate a Steady Stream of Sales Prospects.”

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The 2019 Board of Directors

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Executive Committee

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Michele Petrie

Chair Wintrust Commercial Banking & Mortgage

Richard Zumwalt Immediate Past Chair Z Resource

Dan Ross Vice Chair Gallagher

Jean Crosby

Vice Chair Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Crosby Starck Real Estate

Amy Ott

Treasurer Boylan Catholic High School

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Andrew Benson Benson Stone Company, Inc.

Kimberly Blascoe Wipfli LLP

Jan Bowman TLC Construction

looking to 2019

The 2019 Board of Directors

LaVonne Brown Savant Capital Management

Paula Carynski OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center

Samuel J. Castree Staff Management, Inc.

Doug Curry Stenstrom Companies

Don Daniels SwedishAmerican, A Division of UW Health

Rebecca Epperson Chartwell Agency

Ira Grimmett Collins Aerospace

Tim Honquest Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory

Jeff Hultman Illinois Bank & Trust

Michael Iasparro Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP

Kris Kieper Machajewski YWCA Northwestern Illinois

Mike Paterson Mid-West Family Broadcasting

Mark Peterson CBL Associates CherryVale

Denise Sasse RSM US LLP

Sue Schrieber Mercyhealth

John Schuster Rosecrance Health Network

Teri Sharp American Precision Supply, Inc.

Dr. Alex Stagnaro-Green Unv. of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford

Karl Swanson Rockford Bank & Trust Co.

Udaya Talwar Woodward

Jon Thompson Butitta Brothers Automotive

Einar Forsman Ex-Officio Rockford Chamber of Commerce

John Groh Ex-Officio Rockford Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau

Nathan Bryant Ex-Officio Rockford Area Economic Development Council

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The Rockford

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Chamber Staff

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Staff contact information

Einar K. Forsman President & CEO

Heidi Garner Chief Operating Officer

Bo Boger Illinois SBDC at Rockford Chamber

Olivia Guzman Administrative Assistant/Customer Service Rep.

Cori CurrEy Membership Development Executive

Doug Hessong Director of Publications & Technology

Einar K. Forsman eforsman@rockfordchamber.com

815-987-8100

Bo Boger SBDC@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4301

Cori Currey ccurrEy@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4336

Heidi Garner hgarner@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4312

Olivia Guzman oguzman@rockfordchamber.com

815-987-8100

Doug Hessong dhessong@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4338

Lynette Jacques ljacques@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4317

Phoebe Morris pmorris@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4302

Kristin Muehlfelder 815-316-4315 kmuehlfelder@rockfordchamber.com

Lynette Jacques Vice President, Member Investment

Phoebe Morris Program & Event Coordinator

Kristin Muehlfelder Member Relations

Caitlin Pusateri cpusateri@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4337

Doug Rand drand@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4316

Joan Sundvall jsundvall@rockfordchamber.com

815-316-4320

Rockford Chamber of Commerce Direct Line 815-987-8100 Caitlin Pusateri Vice President, Leadership Development

Doug Rand Accounting Manager/Controller

Joan Sundvall Membership Contact Coordinator

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Advertisers Index The Rockford Chamber would like to thank it's advertisers for supporting this publication.

Ad Vice Marketing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 The Alliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Associated Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Crosby Starck Real Estate . . Inside Back Cover Blackhawk Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Brian Thomas Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Collins Aerospace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Construction Business Development Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 CoyleKiley Insurance Agency, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Crescent Electric Supply Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Edward Jones - Jennifer Reisinger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 First Northern Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Forest City Gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 FurstStaffing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Getz Fire Equipment Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Interstate Graphics Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Knopp Construction, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Leading Lawyers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover, 1 Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 MembersAlliance Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Mercyhealth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover Meridian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Northern Illinois University Conference Centers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 OSF HealthCare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Professional Graphics Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Quartz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren P.C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Rockford Lutheran . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Rock River Valley Blood Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 SwedishAmerican, A Div. of UW Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Van Matre Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Woodward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

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