Family
&
2020
OWNED OPERATED A publication of Rock Valley Publishing LLC
Page 2
FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS
2020
Christenson Est. 1914
FUNERAL HOME Family & CREMATORY Owned/Operated
“Striving to create an event that truly reflects the spirit and memory of your loved one”
925 3rd Avenue • Rockford, IL 815-965-1600 www.rockfordfunerals.com 367717
2020 FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS
Page 3
AW Anderson Agency: A leader of the Loves Park community t was on June 6, 1941, that Arthur W. Anderson embarked on what was to become a very successful career in the insurance profession. His early insurance career, however, was interrupted with the outbreak of World War II where he served in the field artillery division of General Patton’s Third Army in Europe. After returning from the war, he resumed working in the insurance field. In 1955, Art opened his first office at the Meadowmart on Windsor Road with only two employees. With a great deal of hard work in the early years, the AW Anderson Agency began to grow. It was at this time that Art Anderson looked for a more visible location for a new office building. Groundbreaking for that new location occurred in 1959 at 6464 North Second Street in Loves Park, the current location of the office. The new facility offered housing for the agency as well as the regional claims department for Pekin Insurance. As the community of Loves Park began to flourish in the early years of the town’s incorporation, so did the AW Anderson Agency. The office was incorporated and in 1963, Carl Lee joined the office as a producer and minority partner in the agency. Carl worked primarily in the life and health field in spurring on growth of the newly organized life company of Pekin Insurance. Crawford DeWitt and Debbie Nelson both joined the agency in 1968 as a producer and secretary respectively. It was shortly after this time that the agency became departmentalized to enable employees to specialize in certain areas of insurance to provide their customers with the best service possible. The decade of the 1970s saw considerable changes to the agency. First, the agency office had two separate additions to the building to accommodate the need for the added personnel required to provide the best service to their expanding client base. In 1977, Art’s son, Jeff, joined the agency after serving as an adjuster with an insurance company to bring needed help in personal lines underwriting. Also in 1978 saw the addition of Tim Humpal as Life Department Manager. Tim brought previous experience as a successful life producer with Mass Mutual Financial Services. In 1980, the agency experienced many changes. Mary Smith retired as a longtime secretary/office manager after 26 years of dedicated service. Steve Anderson was hired as a personal lines and life insurance producer and Gary Anderson followed a few months later to assist with the rapidly growing commercial department. In this same year, the agency purchased the Peterson-Gibson Insurance Agency in neighboring Rockford which they ran as a separate office until merging it with the AW Anderson Agency in 1989. The acquisition of this agency allowed the AW Anderson Agency to expand to include more clients in the Rockford area. In 1993, Carl Lee retired as Chairman of the Board after serving 30 years with the agency and was succeeded by Crawford DeWitt. Mark Taylor was added that same year as a commercial lines producer after working several years in the credit ilfe and health field. Crawford DeWitt remained as Chairman of the Board until his retirement
the same for you. Remember – who you insure with does make a difference.
I
Arthur Anderson’s personal life of achievements Born on Flag Day on June 14, 1922, in Rockford, Art’s parents had immigrated to the United States from Sweden. He remained ever proud of his Swedish heritage and kept in close contact with his relatives in Sweden. Art grew up in Loves Park and attended schools in the Harlem School District. Enterprising from a very young age, Art had his first job at the age of eight delivering the Saturday Evening Post. He later worked as a youth as a shoe shine boy at the Forest Hills Country Club only to become the President of the country club as an adult. On June 6, 1941, he embarked on what was to become a very successful career in the insurance profession. His early insurance career, however, was interrupted with the outbreak of World War II where he served in the field artillery division of General Patton’s Third Army in Europe,
obtaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge. At the end of the war, he helped to liberate prisoners in war camps. After returning from the war, he married Betty Lou Ralston in 1950. They would later celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in 2000 prior to her passing in 2001. It was in 1955 that Art opened his first office at the Meadowmart on Windsor Road with only two employees, and in 1959, Art broke ground for an insurance office at 6464 North Second Street in Loves Park – the current location of his office. Their sons, Jeff, Steve and Gary, have followed in his professional footsteps and are currently the majority owners of their father’s agency. In 2004 and 2008, the office added his grandsons, Chris and Kyle, to the staff, making the office a third generation business. As the community of Loves Park began to flourish in the early years of its incorporation, so also did the AW Anderson Agency. Now the agency
See AW ANDERSON, Page 11
Art and his boys at groundbreaking in 1959. SUBMITTED PHOTOS Family-Owned Business
in 1998 and was succeeded by Jeff Anderson. After 2000, the agency was remodeled again and added Chris Anderson in 2005 and Kyle Anderson in 2008 as producers after their graduation from Carthage College. Their addition makes the office a third generation family-owned business bringing energy and new ideas to enhance the progress of the office in the new century. Another renovation facelift was completed both on the inside and outside of the agency office in 2013 resulting in a more updated look while removing walls within the office. Gary Anderson also retired in that same year after 33 years as a commercial life producer and former President of the agency. In 2015, a second location was established with the purchase of Apple Insurance located in nearby Roscoe, Ill. The acquisition of this agency allowed that office to continue providing excellent customer service while expanding the services and products to those customers in Roscoe. In 2016, Debbie Nelson retired after servicing the agency for 48 years. She is the second longest employee in agency history only exceeded by our founder, Arthur W. Anderson. It was in 2017 that Jeff Anderson decided to retire. He served in many capacities at the agency over his 40 years including Chairman of the Board. The AW Anderson Agency has been the recipient of numerous awards from many companies including Pekin Insurance. They have maintained the status of being one of the top Property and Casualty agencies for Pekin Insurance for over 30 years and have received over 100 awards for outstanding life insurance production. Today, the agency has 13 employees with combined experience of over 250 years with many of our employees working there over 25 years or more. Since 1941, we have helped navigate our clients through the complexities and ever changing landscape of risk, with innovative insurance products. We can do
AW Anderson Agency in 1954. Located at Meadow Mart (now Doc’s Diner).
AW Anderson Agency 1965.
Page 4
FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS
2020
A.W. Anderson Agency, Inc. Personal and Business Insurance Family owned since 1941
FOOTVILLE ROCK & LIME CORP FOOTVILLE TRUCKING CORP Call us for your landscaping needs!
For all your insurance needs! 6464 North Second Street Loves Park, IL 61111 Phone 815-633-6464 www.awanderson.com
338947
• Crushed Limestone Products • Mulch • 70-79 Zone Ag Lime with Spreading • Topsoil • Decorative Landscape Stone • Fill: Dirt & Sand • Free Stall Sand • Dump Truck Services 14249 West Dorner Road Brodhead, WI 53520 • 608-876-6608
367125
New, Custom Hardwood Floors Installed, Sanded & Finished Custom Sanding of Old Floors
ull Hardwood Flooring Hardwood Flooring Specialists for Over 40 Years Family Owned & Operated
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL • Real 3/4” hardwood flooring, not a thin laminate. • Custom sanding and finishing of old floors.
Covering Brodhead and the surrounding areas
367121
Call for free estimates at 1-608-897-4960 or 1-608-558-1960
2020 FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS
Page 5
Seth Atwood: A longtime Rockford family business
Seth Glanville Atwood silencers for cars. Eventually, estate properties. As a result, the majority of the museum’s (June 2, 1917 – Feb. 21, 2010) the company began to collection went to the Museum of Science was an American industrialist, manufacture a complete line Time Museum and Industry in Chicago, and was on display community leader, and of automobile body hardware. In 1971, Seth G. Atwood founded the from January 2001 to February 2004. In horological collector. He was Seth G. Atwood became Time Museum at the Clock Tower Resort in 2004, a campaign to raise US$35 million to the chairman and president the president of the Atwood Rockford, Illinois. The resort was originally buy the collection for Time Museum failed, of Atwood Vacuum Machine Vacuum Machine Company in built by the Atwood’s family in 1968. In and the collection was broken up with its Company, one of the world’s 1953 when his father became 1980s, the museum became one of the timepieces sent to auctions. largest manufacturers of chairman of the board. leading horological museums in the world, Over the years, hundreds of items from automobile body hardware, and In 1967, Seth G. Atwood with nearly 1,500 pieces of horological the museum’s original collection went up for sale in Sotheby’s auctions, and several pieces a long-time leader of the Atwood became the chairman of collection, including atomic clocks. became the world’s most expensive watches family’s business which involved the company, and under The museum’s notable collection and clocks ever auctioned. in manufacturing, banking and his leadership the company included ancient Chinese sundials and Seth Atwood These included the Patek Philippe Henry hotel industries, with over 2,500 became the world’s “largest water clocks by Su Song, early pendulum Graves Supercomplication and the Breguet employees. independent manufacturer of internal auto clocks, a quarter-repeater by Thomas In addition, Atwood was a director of the Sympathique Clock No.128 & 5009 (Duc body hardware” in 1968. Tompion, an astronomical and world time Illinois Manufacturers’ Association, and had d’Orléans Breguet Sympathique, owned In 1970, the company re-organized and clock by Christian Gebhard, the Harrison served in the Illinois Chamber of Commerce by Ferdinand Philippe, Duke of Orléans), established the Automotive and Contract wooden regulator clock, the Richard Glynn and the Graduate School of Business at the which was originally restored by English Division and the Mobile Products Division, mechanical equinoctial standing Ring-Dial, watchmaker George Daniels at the request of University of Chicago. employing over 2,500 employees with five and so on. In 1990s, the museum attracted In 1971, Seth G. Atwood founded the Seth G. Atwood. plants in Canada and the United States. over 50,000 visitors each year. Time Museum at the Clock Tower Resort in The Patek Philippe pocket watch currently In 1971, the annual sale of the company The Museum of Science and Industry in holds the title of the most expensive watch Rockford, Illinois, which later became one reached around US$50 million. In 1985, Chicago kept and displayed a large portion ever sold at auction, fetching US$24 million of the leading horological museums in the Atwood Vacuum Machine was sold to of the original collection from the Time US dollars (CHF 23,237,000) in Sotheby’s world with nearly 1,500 pieces of horological Anderson Industries in Rockford, Illinois; Museum until February 2004. Geneva auction on Nov. 11, 2014. The collection, including atomic clocks. the annual sale of the company was US$138 However, the museum was shut down in The museum’s notable collection included Breguet Sympathique Clock, on the other million at the time of this acquisition. March 1999 when United Realty Corp., a ancient Chinese sundials and water clocks, Seth G. Atwood also managed other company owned by Atwood family interests, hand, currently ranks as one of the most early pendulum clocks, a quarter-repeater expensive clocks ever sold at auction, businesses of his family involving sold the Clock Tower Resort to Regency by Thomas Tompion, Breguet Sympathique fetching US$6.80 million. banking, venture capital, hotels and real Hotel Management. Clocks, and the Patek Philippe Henry Graves Supercomplication which currently holds the title of the most expensive watch ever sold at auction, fetching 24 million US dollars (23,237,000 CHF) in Geneva on Nov. 11, 2014. However, the museum was shut down in 1999 and its collection was sent to auctions over the years. Manus Repair Center is a family-owned and operated girls and live in Ridott. In his spare time, Randy farms with his automotive maintenance and repair center located in Pecatonica, Early life grandfather. Ill. We have served Pecatonica and the surrounding area for over Seth G. Atwood was born in Rockford, 30 years. Ill. on June 2, 1917. He attended Carleton Services offered In 1981 Rick Manus started his own auto repair shop in College, and graduated from Stanford Our experienced technicians provide honest and professional German Valley after leaving his Auto Technician job at JC University with a B.A. degree in 1938. He service and excellent customer service. We make sure the job Penney. (Yes, Penney’s had auto repair shops back in the 60’s & later studied at the University of Wisconsin for is done right the first time. Your safety is top priority at Manus 70’s) a year, and obtained an M.B.A. from Harvard Repair Center, LLC and to ensure your safety, we go that extra In 1983 Rick brought in Rod Wichman as partner and Diesel University in 1940. From 1942-1946, he mile so your vehicle will too. Mechanic & it became Manus & Wichman Repair. He started a served as an officer in the United States Navy, At Manus Repair Center, LLC no job is too big or too small. shop in Forreston in 1993 and one in Pecatonica in 1997. After achieving the rank of lieutenant commander. We are equipped to handle your vehicle’s regular maintenance Seth G. Atwood later returned to dissolving the partnership of 25 years, the business became needs or repair problems. From oil changes and brakes to Rockford and joined in the Atwood Vacuum Manus Repair Center in 2006. air conditioning repair and wheel alignment, we are your Machine Company, which was founded by Randy Manus joined his father as an auto technician in 1997. neighborhood repair center. his father, Seth B. Atwood, and his uncle, Beth Manus has always done the bookwork but became the We look forward to adding you to our family of satisfied James T. Atwood in 1909 specializing in service writer in 2008. We just have the one shop in Pecatonica customers. While we gladly accept and welcome walk-ins, manufacturing vacuum cleaners. now and enjoy the small town atmosphere and the people of the you can contact us today to schedule an appointment for your community. Rick and Beth live in German Valley and have four next auto maintenance or repair. Learn more about our brake Family business granddaughters. services, wheel alignment, tires services, or air conditioning By 1920, the Atwood Vacuum Machine In their spare time, they have a volleyball club called Excess repair. Company had already shifted its focus from that is in Pecatonica also. Randy and his wife Jodi have two Call 815-239-2588 for a free estimate. manufacturing vacuum cleaners to door
Manus Repair Center: #1 in Auto Repair & Maintenance
FIRE & SAFETY, INC.
MANUS REPAIR & STORAGE Randy Manus, Owner
39 Years in Business PECATONICA, IL • 239-2588 Complete Auto Repair
367690
2581 PARK AVENUE BELOIT, WI 53511 608-362-1634
25+ Years Experience! 367560
SERVING YOU FOR OVER 50 YEARS
367119
Serving All Faiths Wisconsin & Illinois Funeral Service
210 Baldwin St. Sharon, WI 53585
367856
A B C
Toynton Sharon Funeral Home
Call 262-736-4333 or Walworth 262-275-2171
Page 6
FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS
2020
Westwinn Kennels: Providing a home away from home for your pet
Westwinn Kennels is a full service kennel. We provide full boarding services for the special member(s) of your family. The facility is located at 285 S Hoisington
Road, Pecatonica, Ill.
Our canine friends enjoy a roomy private indoor run with an adjacent outdoor run. The indoor floor is heated so your dog stays toasty on even the coldest winter nights. We provide a large fenced grassy (or snowy) area for added exercise time. We encourage ‘comfort’ items from home such as a favorite bed, blanket, toy, ball or even an old shoe. Your dog is welcome to eat the food we provide but if for some reason your loved one is on a special diet, needs canned food or just doesn’t tolerate a change in diet very well, you’re welcome to bring your own. Please bring it in a container that can be closed. Fresh water is given all day. Treats and lots of love are all included. Our feline friends enjoy an entire 10’x10’ room with a window. We provide covered or uncovered litter boxes (whatever your kitty prefers), a scratching post, toys to stimulate and lots of love (only when they want it, of course!) We feed our feline guests a dry kibble but if you wish to bring something else, you are welcome to do so. We ask that ALL guests be leashed or crated from the
Westwinn Kennels, a full service kennel, provides full boarding services for your pet. The facility is located at 285 S Hoisington Road, Pecatonica, Ill. SUBMITTED PHOTO Family-Owned Business
car to the building. For the protection of your pet as well as others you MUST provide written proof of the following vaccines: Dogs: Rabies, DHLPP, Bordetella Cats: Rabies, FVRCP, Feline Leukemia Your vet can fax the vaccination info to us at 815-2478553. If you haven’t visited our gift shop lately, come and
see what’s new! We have a new engraving machine so we can engrave pet tags ON THE SPOT! We can even engrave on both sides. We carry a new line of safety dog collars and leashes that light up or flash so you can see your dog in the dark. It is also the perfect gift for the person who walks or jogs with their dog after dark. We now carry a new line of pet beds that are stylish, durable and machine washable at a great price. New to our inventory is Sterling Silver dog breed jewelry for the dog lover in your family. It makes a great Christmas gift! We have dog sweaters, lots and lots of toys (at a price much lower than the big pet stores). We are really excited about new product called Pill Pockets. If your dog or cat takes medication and you have a tough time getting him to take it, Pill Pockets are for you. They are a patented liver treat(for dogs) and salmon treat(for cats) designed to hold pills. Just drop the pills in the pouch and your pet never knows they’re there. They are AWESOME and don’t need refrigeration. And if you like to dress your pet up for the holidays we have some really cute collars and leashes with snowmen on them. Your dog will look stylish (not ridiculous).
For more information, call 815-247-8311.
Family-owned businesses are economic powerhouses America’s economic engine
Family businesses account for 64 percent of U.S. gross domestic product, generate 62 percent of the country’s employment, and account for 78 percent of all new job creation. Family-owned businesses are the backbone of the American economy. Studies have shown about 35 percent of Fortune 500 companies are family-controlled and represent the full spectrum of American companies from small business to major corporations. The greatest part of America’s wealth lies with familyowned businesses. Family firms comprise 80 to 90 percent of all business enterprises in North America. Roughly 90 percent of the families responding to a survey in “From Longevity of Firms to Transgenerational Entrepreneurship of Families: Introducing Family Entrepreneurial Orientation indicated that they control more than a single firm. The results of the survey suggest that there is strong entrepreneurial activity undertaken by controlling families beyond their core (i.e., largest) company. Small businesses, including many family firms, employ just over half of US workers. Of 113.4 million non-farm private sector workers in 2011, small firms with fewer than 500 workers employed 55 million and large firms employed 58.4 million. Firms with fewer than 20 employees employed 20.2 million. Research shows that family businesses are less likely to lay off employees regardless of financial performance. Family businesses have longevity
Recent research has shown that continued family control can be efficient, since families are, for example, able to positively affect the resource inventory and usage of their firms, apply a long-term perspective allowing for unique strategic positioning, have less human resources problems and higher firm values, or drive new entrepreneurial activity. What truly drives many family businesses is the sense of connection and identity the owners and their family members feel with the business. The mean age of family control in the family’s core company is 60.2 years. More than 30 percent of all family-owned businesses survive into the second generation. Twelve percent will still be viable into the third generation, with 3 percent of all family businesses operating at the fourth-generation level and beyond. The tenure of leadership in a Family Enterprise is four to five times longer than their counterparts. Of primary importance among family firm wealth
holders is transferring not only their financial wealth but also their values surrounding their wealth to subsequent generations. Primary values taught include encouraging children to earn their own money, philanthropy, charitable giving and volunteering. The environment for innovation in family businesses improves when more generations of the owning family are actively involved in the business. Family businesses retain talent better than their competitors do: only 9 percent of family businesses work forces turned over annually (versus 11 percent at non-family firms), in a Harvard Business Review study. They create a culture of commitment and purpose, avoiding layoffs during downturns, promoting from within and investing in people. Family businesses create wealth
Family-owned businesses have strong entrepreneurial activity across time. On average and over the family’s history these families controlled 6.1 firms, created 5.4 firms, added 2.7 firms through merger and acquisition activity, spun off 1.5 firms, and shifted industry focus 2.1 times. These families exhibit a significant level of entrepreneurial activity over time, in terms of rearranging the portfolio of activities through founding activity, mergers and acquisitions, as well as divestments. The largest family-owned business in the US is Wal-Mart Inc., with $499.4. billion in net sales and 2.2 million employees worldwide in 2016. 222 owners and executives of mostly mid-sized, family-owned businesses were surveyed. Approximately 70 percent of the respondents represented companies with revenues of $200 million or more, while 25 percent were with companies generating revenues of $500 million or more. In the S&P 500 companies, ROI is greater in family businesses, with a 6.65 percent greater return than nonfamily firms. Family businesses know how to do business right
Family-owned businesses practice good governance. A Harvard Business Review study showed 94 percent of surveyed family firms were controlled by supervisory or advisory boards. Family representation on these boards averaged 31 percent, demonstrating a clear separation between family and business in most cases. Family businesses leaders focus on the next generation, not the next quarter. They tend to embrace strategies that put customers and employees first and emphasize social responsibility.
Family businesses develop leaders in unlikely places – more than 40 percent of companies in the Harvard Business review study included members of the next generation on their boards and committees in order to nurture their business and management skills. Family businesses have powerful internal cultures. A study of 114 family firms and 1,200 other large companies for their organizational health found that family-owned businesses scored significantly higher on things like worker motivation and leadership. 74 percent believe they have a stronger culture and values than non-family firms. And, 72 percent measure success differently – not just growth and profit. Women matter in family business
Women are increasingly participating in family businesses leadership. Currently, 24 percent of family businesses are led by a female CEO or President, and 31.3 percent of family businesses surveyed indicate that the next successor is a female. Nearly 60 percent of all family-owned businesses have women in top management team positions. Over the past five years, woman-owned family businesses have increased by 37 percent. Female-owned family firms are typically 10 years younger than male-owned firms and more are firstgeneration businesses. Female-owned family firms experience greater family loyalty to the business, agreement with its goals, and pride in the business. Woman-owned family firms have a 40 percent lower rate of family member attrition in the business. Family businesses face big issues
By 2017, it was estimated that 40.3 percent of family business owners expected to retire, creating a significant transition of ownership in the US. Less than half of those expecting to retire in five years have selected a successor. Nearly half of family business owners (43 percent) have no succession plan in place. Even though nearly 70 percent of family businesses would like to pass their business on to the next generation, only 30 percent will actually be successful at transitioning to the next generation. A majority of family businesses (60 percent) believe that their ethical standards are more stringent than those of competing firms. They also report ethical standards being discussed often or always at meetings with employees, in discussions with customers and during board meetings.
2020 FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS
Page 7
Hiring an outside expert for your family business One of the of the trickiest thing for a family business to do is to ask for help from an outsider, whether it’s bringing on an expert as a full-time employee, a consultant or a board member. But to take a family business to the next level, tackle thorny challenges and receive no-holds-barred feedback, sometimes you need to do just that. It’s tricky, though. Pulling back the curtains to non-family members requires trust and a willingness to listen and to learn. For insight on when and how to find an outside expert for a family business, I reached out to Ted Clark, Northeastern University Center for Family Business executive professor of entrepreneurship and innovation and director of the Center for Family Business. Clark is also on the board of FamilyBusiness.org, from the University of St. Thomas’ Entrepreneur and Innovation Exchange — eix.org — a social media platform for new business ventures. (Full disclosure: The Schulze Foundation, which funds EIX, is also a funder of Next Avenue.) Next Avenue: When should a family business look for an outside expert? Ted Clark: I would say as soon as you need one at any particular point in time. Bringing in a non-family employee can happen immediately, if you need someone to support the business. The same with the board. You can’t do it soon enough. Isn’t there a psychological or ego issue — the insider versus the outsider issue? From the perspective of a functioning family business, I would turn it around. If you’re thinking that you don’t need these
people — ‘We are smarter than the rest of the world. We don’t need outsider perspectives.’ — it’s really a question of how long can that last? Seriously! To think for one second that you can be disconnected and unconnected from the outside world, that is not reasonable. If you are in the situation where your family is saying ‘We don’t need outside people,’ that is a sign that you need some outside people. Does it depend on the way the family business is set up? There are three types of family businesses. There’s the monarchy or aristocracy, where there is the king or the queen, and one person is in charge. That is the family business that gets the bad rap of not needing outside people. You see the king or the queen, who either started the business or have been running it for a long time, and they are very confident in their abilities and may have had success by not listening to the experts and charting a different course and being an innovator. It is difficult for them to hear somebody new, or an outside perspective. But if the business is faltering or not working well, that is the time that person hopefully acknowledges that yeah, maybe the world has changed. and they do need a new vision and perspective from the outside. The next kind of family business is when siblings own the business. You move away from a monarchy to an oligarchy. That group is typically a little more prone to bringing in outsiders, because they have lived with the monarchy, and they may have seen sometimes the monarch gets a little long in
the tooth and needs a new view of the world. The third type of family business is the diffused type where there are multiple owners and more of a democratic structure. Those almost always have a board of advisers. And quite often a board of directors. They are the aspirational model of a family business: outside advisers, board of directors, meetings, openness, transparency. It takes a while to get there. Is there a business case for bringing in an outsider as a consultant rather than as a fulltime employee? Yes. You bring in the expert employee — great voice, great vision, great everything — but all their eggs are in one basket of being an employee. And they may not necessarily give you the best advice for fear that they will upset you or that if they say something the monarch is not pleased with it, it could jeopardize their career or future employment. Sometimes, although these people are experts, they may be reluctant to provide advice and the owner may be reluctant to accept it. So, there is great risk there. The upside with consultants is that it is temporary. It should be a transactional relationship. By that I mean, they provide a service and then move on. You can reengage them and hire them again. But the idea here is you want someone to be able to look you in the eye and tell you that with all honesty, in a diplomatic way, that is the dumbest thing they have ever heard, without any fear of losing their employment with you because they know it is transactional. So, you will hopefully listen to them. They
Aukes family established Carz R Us in Machesney Park Founded in 2009 by brothers Matt and Ray Aukes, Carz R Us is an automotive service center located in the heart of Machesney Park, Ill. What initially began as a small shop on Ralston Road, Carz R Us has grown to become a state-of-the-art, 10bay shop with plenty of room for expansion. So, how did we get here? We’d love to share our story. Matt and Ray grew up around cars, but their love for music came first. Both Matt and Ray attended NIU and majored in music. After graduation, Matt taught high school band for six years, and Ray performed music professionally. When the brothers started working on their late father’s 1967 Camaro, they discovered their love for cars. The wheels were in motion, so to speak, and the idea of starting a family-owned and -operated business began. To lay the groundwork for success, Ray worked as a mechanic at a local automotive shop, where he took on the role of head tech and continued to train and enhance his skills. Matt focused his efforts on learning about business by training in taxes, legal and real estate. In November 2008, Matt and Ray purchased their first location – a building with an auto repair shop, restaurant, and salon. When the building was slated for demolition due to the widening of Ralston Road, the brothers made a bold decision and built Carz R Us as it looks today close by, on the southwest corner of Routes 173 and 251. Despite your standard “brotherly” disagreements, Matt and Ray’s partnership
Brothers Matt and Ray Aukes, opened Carz R Us, an automotive service center in Machesney Park, Ill., in 2009. SUBMITTED PHOTO Family-Owned Business
has been a successful one, and family plays a big role in that success. Their wives (both named Melissa, and yes, this is very confusing), mom, Renae, and aunt, Rita, help at the shop. Carz R Us thrives on building relationships with its clients and in the community and continues to support local
organizations and schools through many initiatives, including its School Loyalty Program. We’d love to get to know you and show you how our family can serve your family with the highest level of technical and client service. Our story is just beginning – we hope you’ll join us for the ride!
are telling you the truth because they have nothing to lose. If you’re hiring an outside expert, are you looking for a trusted adviser? One of the things in family businesses that drives me nuts is the term “trusted adviser.” I don’t want to trust an adviser. I want a truthful adviser. Trusted adviser also sort of implies forever, too. I don’t want them to think this is forever. As the business changes, my needs change; as I change, my needs change. You shouldn’t feel you should keep them forever and they shouldn’t feel they are stuck here for life.
Footville Rock & Lime: Your source for limestone, decorative stone When you need limestone or other natural materials, the very best place to get them is straight from the quarry in Wisconsin. When you choose Footville Rock & Lime Corporation, that’s exactly what you’ll get: superior quality materials, provided by an honest company. Whether you need agricultural lime for your soil treatment or are improving your residential landscape with quality stone materials, we’re here to help. We’ll even help you spread your rock to make sure it’s applied perfectly. Our full offering of products includes crushed limestone products, agricultural limestone, decorative stones, mulch, sand, dirt, driveway gravel and more. Why choose Footville Rock & Lime Corporation for limestone and decorative stone in Wisconsin? Simple: we work to deliver the highest quality products at the best prices, and we always treat our customers with the integrity and respect they deserve. We work with you to figure out your exact needs, and we pass along the savings of mining directly from our quarry, meaning you’re going to get exactly what you need at a price you can afford. Take a look at just a few more of the reasons we have so many satisfied customers and why our customers recommend us anytime there’s a need for limestone, landscaping materials or decorative stone in Wisconsin: We’re a family owned and operated business. We have a wide range of quality products available to customers. We’re pleased to supply residential, commercial and agricultural customers alike. We’re happy to spread rock and limestone for you upon delivery. Our business has been around since 1974!
Page 8
FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS
2020
Lube Express
Piasa Leather & Saddle LOVES PARK, IL
Featuring Genuine Mobile Products 7706 N. Second St. • Machesney Park, IL
815-877-5727
815-636-0717
5442 N. SECOND
New & Used English and Western Saddles
World’s Leading Synthetic Motor Oil
3.00 OFF $ 5.00 OFF $ 12.00 OFF $
Full Service Oil Change
Transmission Service New Technology Changes All The Fluid Including The Converter
Complete Repair of: Saddles • Tack • Coats • Purses, briefcases and related items • Custom Goods • Belts • Holsters • Chaps • Leanin’ Tree Cards & Gifts
Open 6 Days A Week
Leather Work and Repair We Repair Most Golf Bags
Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8 - 5 Sat. 8 - 3 CLOSED Sun.
Full Service Oil Change and Transmission Service Done at same time 367687
Offering Boot and Shoe Repair 367686
Mobile. Changing oil for over 125 years.
Take Advantage of up to $500 in Utility Rebates - Ask Us How!
• 24 Hour Emergency Service • Heating/Cooling Systems • Gas/Wood Fireplaces • Air Duct Cleaning • Filtration Systems
444 Meadows Dr. - Freeport 815-233-1622 • www.bomarheating.com
367689
2020 FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS
Page 9
Excellence has been Bomar Heating & Cooling’s hallmark since 1974 BoMar Heating & Cooling is a customer focused family owned heating and air-conditioning company that was originally started in 1974. The company was started by Bob and Margaret Rowland and the business name is a combination of their first names. Located in Freeport, IL, we employ highly trained people whose goal is to make our company the best service company in Northwest Illinois. Our company specializes in designing, engineering, and installing complete comfort systems for owners of existing homes and buildings just like yours. We take special pride in the craftsmen we train and employ--a fact you’ll notice immediately in the attitude and integrity they bring to your job site. Our entire company works hard to make your experience with us is hasslefree and enjoyable. Should we make a mistake, we will do everything in our power to correct it to your satisfaction. From the professionalism of our comfort consultants, to the dedication of our field personnel, we are dedicated
BoMar Heating & Cooling continues growing with more satisfied customers each and every year. Give them a call for your service needs at 815-233-1622. SUBMITTED PHOTO Family-Owned Business
to delivering you the best. We take our responsibility very seriously when you place your trust in us. We pledge to always tell you up front what your cost will be to complete your job correctly. We make it a point to go over any details or limitations of the proposed system that will affect your enjoyment of the end result. You are told exactly what to expect up front. We back this philosophy with our exclusive written
guarantee when choosing BoMar Heating & Cooling to contract your job: “If at any time during the first year of installation, you are not 100% satisfied with the performance of the equipment, our service or even our people, we will, within 30 days of your request, remove the system and cheerfully refund the entire amount of the contract.” Compare our guarantee with the limitations, fine print and exclusions other
companies tend to use to back their work today. Others will typically guarantee only the functionality of the equipment-not your satisfaction with the process or that the finished job lives up to your expectations. This is why BoMar Heating & Cooling continues growing with more satisfied customers each and every year. Give us a call for your service needs and see what you’ve been missing.
Managing a family-owned business Running a family business is similar to running any small business. However, there are certain issues that are specific to operating a family owned business. Some common problems that can occur in a family owned business include: Arguments over daily operations Differences in opinion about dividing and spending the business’s profit High turnover rate among non-family employees Family tension Different opinions do not always produce disagreements, but the emotional relationships between family members can make it hard to make objective decisions. Some ways to handle family tension in your business include: Agreeing on a process for settling disputes before they occur Hiring a mediator Managing the business If a member of the family is in charge of operations, he or she should be able to negotiate between family members to make the best decisions for the business. In some cases, you can achieve more objective control and oversight in a family-owned business by hiring a manager who is not a family member. With either option, the roles and responsibilities for all employees, including family members, should be clear, and the manager’s authority to suspend or discharge any staff member that violates company rules should also be clear. Fairness is very important in a family company, and management will be ineffective if special allowances are made. Succession planning Succession planning is an important issue to consider for any small business. Consider who will take over if something happens to the family member who owns or manages the business. A strong succession plan can guide your business through a change in management, and can help you avoid
conflict. Hiring relatives One of the most common issues in a family business is the pressure to hire a relative. The emotional aspect of family relationships can make it difficult to refuse the request. Try to make the decision based on what is best for the business and not on emotional connections. If you do hire a family member it should not affect the relationship that you have with other members of your staff. Hold relatives to the same standard as non-family employees. Presenting new ideas When presenting new ideas for business improvement, particularly where spending is involved, base your information on facts to provide an objective perspective of what is best for the company. Family members can then make an informed decision based on concrete information. You can also hire a business advisor. Relatives will sometimes accept the credibility of advisors - such as bankers, accountants or lawyers - when they won’t accept your judgment. Paid consultants can also help confirm the value of expenditures for the business, and can devote additional time and effort to specialized projects that could require further research. Dividing profits Paying family members and dividing profits among them can be a difficult task. Many people feel that they are underpaid, but what do you do when relatives are unhappy with their share of the profits? If the business is a small corporation, certain equalizing factors can be accomplished by using stock dividends, or recapitalizing the company. Providing competitive salaries is another way to ensure that profits are being divided fairly. Find out what local salary ranges are for various jobs and use these ranges as a guide for paying both family and non-family personnel.
Christenson Funeral Home is located in downtown Rockford, Ill at 925 Third Ave. For more information, call 815-965-1600. SUBMITTED PHOTO Family-Owned Business
Christenson Funeral Home provides comfort, assistance For nearly 100 years the Christenson Funeral Home & Crematory has served the Rock River Valley, to help pay tribute to a life lived. A funeral can be as simple or elaborate as you wish, and the experience as unique as the individual life being honored. We strive to create an event that truly reflects the spirit and memory of your loved one. The new Christenson Funeral Home & Crematory located in the heart of Rockford, believes in supporting our communities to enable economic prosperity, while providing an outlet for friends and families to manifest their spirituality. By offering affordable end of life rituals, and emphasizing our “common sense” approach to funeral merchandise,
we bring about a new ethic in the field of funeral service; one rooted in transparency, accountability and ecological responsibility. From the beginning of time people have received comfort and support from those who have made their life’s work to care for the dead and provide service for the living. Let the new Christenson Funeral Home & Crematory create a farewell that is more meaningful to you, those you love and the planet. Christenson Funeral Home is conveniently located in downtown Rockford, Ill at 925 Third Ave. For more information, call 815965-1600. Family Owned and Operated - Established 1914.
Page 10
FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS
2020
RY
VE ING AND RECO TOW BELOIT, WI SINCE 1958
Dewey’s Towing:
Gilbank
More than just towing services
CONSTRUCTION, INC
AND RECOVERY TOWING BELOIT, WI SINCE 1958
General Contractor
2212 Prairie Ave., Beloit, WI
(608) 362-5377
501 Hemenway Pl., So. Beloit, IL
(815) 389-3032
24 HOUR TOWING SERVICE & RECOVERY National Certified Drivers Fully Insured 337104
301 Scot Drive Clinton, WI (608) 676 2261
367706
Dewey’s began as a service station garage in 1955. In 1958 when the only local tow truck driver was killed, Dewey was asked to take over the tow truck. At the time, he only planned on being in the towing business for 2 years. Over 50 years later the company is still going strong with the 3rd generation working and the 4th generation learning to someday be a part of the business as well. One employee always says that if there was work
to be done Dewey was there. He never sent an employee out if he himself wasn’t already working. In 1968 Dewey’s expanded from an Illinois company to include a second location in Wisconsin. Dewey’s still operates to serve both Illinois and Wisconsin today. Over the years Dewey’s has expanded time and time again. What started off as a
See DEWEY’S, Page 11
Ray’s Family Restaurant Open 7 days a week Daily Hours: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Serving breakfast and lunch
108 W. Main St., Rockton, IL 815-624-2822
Dewey’s Towning & Recovery is based in Beloit, Wis., 2212 Prairie Ave. Call 608-362-5377 for more information. SUBMITTED PHOTO Family-Owned Business
367880
Full Retail Counter of Fresh Meats Homemade Sausage & much more On-Site Processing to ensure Quality & Freshness
REGIST ER TO WIN A MONTH LY $25 DRA WING
Proudly serving pets & their humans for 19 years • Family owned & operated since the beginning
Custom Butchering by Appointment Only
Wisconsin Quest Illinois Link Sorg’s Gift Cards
CALL AHEAD: 1-262-724-5554 or 1-262-724-3364
367870
OPEN
– Authorized Nutri-Source dealer – Boarding • Grooming • Pet Supplies • Indoor & Outdoor Runs Convenient Location - Take a “virtual” tour at westwinnkennels.com
Try our Al Capone Roast Also Al Capone Brats Chicken, Beef, or Turkey Pot Pies.
Monday-Friday 8am-5pm, Saturday 8am-4pm N4290 US HWY 14 • Darien, WI 53114
• Seasonal Maintenance of your Furnace & Air Conditioning Systems • Indoor Air Quality Products
Call 815-865-5782
Westwinn Kennels “A country retreat for your pet”
$75.00 All Beef Box $50.00 Variety Box of Beef and Pork NOW SELLING HOMEMADE FRUIT PIES!
339053
— FAMILY OWNED —
Spring • Summer Winter • Fall Mike Wymer Rock City, IL
“When it’s time to replace the old, inefficient heating & air conditioning equipment, we’ll help you sort out the options for high efficiency choices at a price you can afford.” 367123
285 S. Hoisington Road • Pecatonica, IL 815-247-8311 • Like us on Facebook
LSON WELL & PUMP Residential Division
Dedicated to providing quality products backed by quality service 405 W. 11th Street, Pecatonica, IL 61063
(815) 239-2194
367561
Erlander family established early Rockford businesses John Erlander was born everything equally...and as the in Slätthög, Kronobergs län, Vikings did, they swore in blood Småland, Sweden on April to keep the pledge. The clothing 7 1826. He emigrated to the store flourished, and the partners United States in 1854 with his remained in business until 1885 sister Kajsa Jönsdotter, and his when Erlander sold his half of brother Peter Magnus Jönsson. the business to Johnson. He was Their father was Jöns Petterson, 59 years old at the time. so their name was Jönsson. In 1876, the Rockford (Note: Surnames were not Union Furniture Company was solidified in Sweden until the organized by a small group of late 1800’s. Until that time men meeting at the Erlander children were identified by home. Jonas Peters, Erlander’s John Erlander their father’s first name with the brother-in-law, had saved some addition of either “son” or “dotter” to the end money while serving in the Civil War. With of the name--depending on their gender.) this seed money Peters started the Union John Erlander first settled in Chicago Furniture Company. John Erlander was where he learned to operate a new, elected President of the company. Jonas, timesaving invention...the sewing machine. formerly a cabinetmaker’s apprentice, served In 1855 he came to Rockford and worked as as Treasurer/Manager, and P.A. Peterson a tailor. His employer had a sewing machine, was elected company Secretary. The Union but did not know how to use it. John did, Furniture Company was a cooperative however know how to use it, and added association with 25 members. Members to the business success through increased helped to raise the initial capital for the productivity. business. It was the first of 25 area furniture Erlander was involved in several business factories that were formed as cooperatives. ventures during his lifetime. In 1861, he John Erlander was involved in several other entered into a partnership with Sven August business ventures and provided leadership in Johnson (often referred to as S.A. Johnson). the Rockford community. He served on the They open a tailoring and men’s clothing boards of the Excelsior Furniture Company, shop on East State Street, naming their the Central Furniture Company, and the business “Erlander & Johnson.” Rockford Brick Company. He was also one According to John Erlander’s son Alfred, of the primary organizers of the Swedish the men entered into their partnership Mutual Fire Insurance Company, and was a with the agreement that they were to share stockholder in Manufacturer’s National Bank.
Gilbank Construction: Building the future for more than 50 years Gilbank has been a staple in its small‐town community. Gilbank Construction, Inc. was incorporated in 1965 and has thrived since. Gilbank Construction, Inc. has completed a vast amount of commercial, industrial and residential projects in the southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois state line area. Our teams of office and field management staff are highly skilled and reputable construction professionals. Our job superintendents have an immense body of knowledge generated through decades of construction experience. Several of our superintendents have been with Gilbank Construction, Inc. for over 30 years. Their knowledge and problem solving abilities on the construction site, combined with our skilled workforce, are a key factor in our success. Project Management separates us from other commercial construction companies. Our clients have the unique ability to work with a management staff that has a vested interest in the success of the project and in Gilbank Construction, Inc. Our project management team consists of Tom Gilbank (President) and Gary Gilbank
• AW Anderson
Page 11
(Continued from page 3)
employs 12 full-time employees. The agency building has been enlarged and remodeled several times over the past years to accommodate the growing needs of its clients. The evolution from birth to maturity of a successful business would not have been possible without leadership. It is not surprising that the office continued to grow under the leadership of Art Anderson into a professional and highly successful insurance agency. Art was very active in the insurance industry during a career that spanned over 50 years. He began his tenure as a Board member of Pekin Insurance in 1970, retiring in 1995 after 25 years of dedicated service. Art also served on the board for Rockford Mutual Insurance and was the Secretary-Treasurer of the Winnebago County Mutual Insurance Company. He served in 1973 as President of the Illinois Association of Mutual Insurance Companies and was honored with the organization’s Lautum Award. Many Rockford area organizations were beneficiaries of Art’s innumerable measures of energy, his constant pride of his hometown, and his vision and passion to do good for his community. To name only a few of Art’s contributions to the Rockford/Loves Park area: * Member of the Harlem School Board for two terms * Established the Arthur W. Anderson Scholarship Fund, which contributes annually to a deserving Harlem High School senior * Lifelong member and past President of the Harlem Fans Club * Board member and past President of Swedish American Hospital * Director for the Rockford Museum Center * Director for the Sinnissippi Lung Association * Director for the Winnebago Center for the Blind * Director for the United Bank of Loves Park * Member of the Loves Park Lions Club * Member of the local Shriner and Mason organizations * Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars * Member of the American Legion * Served on many committees for Grace Lutheran Church
• Dewey’s
(Vice President). Tom and Gary are 2nd generation employees. Tom has been with Gilbank Construction, Inc. since 1975 and Gary has been with Gilbank Construction, Inc. since 1986. John Williams has been with Gilbank Construction, Inc. for 12 years. He currently serves as the Secretary/Treasurer for Gilbank Construction, Inc. and is also a member of the board of directors. Our newest project manager is James Gilbank; James started the third generation for Gilbank Construction, Inc.
2020 FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS
Late in his life, Art worked closely with the Rockford Park District and served as the Chairman in establishing and building the Field of Honor Memorial in Loves Park. It was said the genius of the Field of Honor came from Art, who felt the need to honor those veterans who gave their lives in the line of duty. This park in which the memorial stands was later named the Arthur W. Anderson Peace Park. In recognition for his civic pride, the gymnasium at Harlem High School was named after him in June of 1994 for his lifetime support of the school and its athletics program. He was often referred to as “Harlem’s Number One Fan,” which is engraved on the plague, which now hangs in the gymnasium. He served as chairman of the Loves Park’s beautification committee and was honored on two occasions as the parade marshall for the Young at Heart Festival. The local history room of the North Suburban Library was named for Betty and Art Anderson for their effort in collecting and displaying the history of the City of Loves Park. In 1997, he received the Excalibur Award given annually by the Rockford Register Star to their top individual community volunteer. His sense of community has become an important part of the philosophy of the AW Anderson Agency and has spilled over to his agency staff who have served in various volunteer capacities in the Rockford/Loves Park area. Art Anderson has been a mover and a shaker in the Loves Park community for many, many years. He has given of his time and talents to any organization, regardless of its size or stature. His involvement was never passive. To those who personally knew Art, he was keen-minded, persistent, ethical, creative, a visionary, caring and a mentor to many. He never let roadblocks in his life dissuade him from pursuing his dreams. His deep, folksy and ever-kind voice easily drew you in. He had a very special gift of pulling people together to bring projects to fruition. Art loved his family, his insurance career, his community and his country. His capacity to get things done in his career and his civic life both testify to the depth and breadth of his thinking, which earned him the respect and admiration of many.
(Continued from page 10)
one truck, one man show has become a large family business complete with two flatbeds, one light duty truck, one medium truck, three heavy duty trucks (including the latest 75 ton rotator), and air bags. Besides upgrading trucks to keep up with technology, Dewey always made sure that his drivers learned the latest techniques. Our employees range from 30+ years of experience to the rookies who are learning from our pros. In order to keep them on their toes, our drivers have been certified through The
Towing and Recovery Association of America, Wreckmaster, or both. Our
mechanics are also trained to keep up the technology of vehicle maintenance through ASE Certifications. Dewey was concerned about the safety of not only his drivers, but also everyone in the towing business. In order to make a difference, he supported numerous committees including the chairman for the Wisconsin Towing Association of which
Dewey’s is a charter member. Dewey worked with Wisconsin legislation to get the Move Over or Slow Down law in order to keep emergency response personnel safe on the sides of roads and highways. In 1994 Dewey was inducted into the Towing Hall of Fame in Chattanooga, Tenn., in recognition of his constant efforts to improve the towing industry. In 2007 Dewey passed away, but his legacy lives on not only at Dewey’s, but also in the towing industry. The business is still run the same way he started it in 1958 with the exception of technological improvements. On any given day you will find Dewey’s children, son-in-law, grandchildren, and beloved family employees working in all aspects of the business. You will also find Dewey’s great-grandchildren following in the footsteps of those who came before them. Dewey’s Towning & Recovery is based in Beloit, Wis., 2212 Prairie Ave. Call 608-3625377 for more information.
Page 12
FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS
2020
“A Short Drive for What the Lena Businesses Have to Offer” 367565
Call to place your order
Brandon’s Hardware & Rental
815-291-7829 We can do any drink that a Full Sized Coffee Shop can do!
• Lattes • Frappes • Smoothies Homemade Waffle Cones & Hand Dipped Ice Cream Sunday Evenings June — August
Check us out on facebook.com/cafe217
To see our cupcake flavor of the month!
338923
We Specialize in Gourmet Filled Cupcakes.
405 S. Schuyler St. Lena, IL
Come In for all your Paint and Lawn & Garden Rental Needs
145 W. Railroad St. • Lena 815-369-5542
March Specialty Pizza of the Month 222 W. Railroad St. Lena, IL 815-369-4400
REUBEN PIZZA
502 S. Schuyler, Lena (Route 73) 815-369-4444 www.downonthefarmtoys.com
338931
• Sun-Tues (Closed) • Wed-Fri 10 am - 6 p.m. • • Sat 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. •
338936
• Dolls • Tractors • Puzzles • Large selection of Melissa & Doug Toys • Home Decor! 367567
Le n a M a i d Meat s ’ s m Slaughte AJ Custo Beef • Hogs • Lamb ring Call today to book your animal for April and May 141 W. Railroad St. Lena, IL 815-369-9990 Th - Sat 11 - 7 Sun 11 - 4
for Quality Meat Processing
We can make beef, pork or lamb brats with your processing trim.
A short d for premiurive • Award Winning Cured Meats • Clean & Inspected Facility m quality. • Excellent Selection of Beef, Pork & Sausage Products • Cut and Packaged to your Specifications • Competitive Rates
Take Advantage of our
Reasons to Shop in Lena
• 50 wines to enjoy • Great atmosphere • Wonderful boutique with many great gifts like Hobo leather purses, pillows, area rugs, and candles
A Short Drive for Premium Quality
at AJ’s Lena Maid Meats Owners Laverne & Marcia Pax • Locally raised fresh and frozen retail • Beef sides & quarters meats • Whole or half hogs • Wide selection of sausage products • Wholesale items available • Award winning, cured meats • Very competitive prices • Local cheese products • Friendly and knowledgeable service • Unique grocery items • Special cuts & orders (available anytime) • Gift boxes and party trays • New Delivery Service to Lena residents. • Custom and Wild Game processing Please call with your retail order. If you are looking for high quality meats, cut the way you want or the many specialty cured meats and sausage products with that “Old Country” flavor, AJ’s Lena Maid Meats is the place to stop. “Under the Water Tower in Lena”
Mon - Fri 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Sat 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
367875
ajslenamaidmeats@mediacombb.net • www.ajslenamaidmeats.net
338938
500 West Main Street • Lena • 815-369-4522