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One, Vol. 1 Iss.1 - November 2011 - One Voice for the Rockford Area Business CommunityTRANSCRIPT
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one voice for the rockford area business communityoneTwenty-one
people you should know
They say knowledge is power.
We say people are powerful, too…
…when fueled by passion for what they do.
Take the Rockford community for example. We’re a sizeable city with a
close-knit feel. A place where—at every fundraiser, festival or corporate event—
you’ll find familiar faces leading us forward.
Rockford has no shortage of fine people you should know. The same can be
said of Reno & Zahm LLP, trusted attorneys and counselors since 1923.
We put our passion for the legal profession to work representing a broad range
of clients. We have a long history of providing realistic yet innovative solutions
to their needs. And while we rarely seek the spotlight, we’ve quietly cultivated a
reputation for distinguished talent…quality of character…and exceptional results.
Reno & Zahm and Rockford. The right people, the right resources, working
together to do the right thing. Now that’s powerful.
PROUD SPONSOR OF PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW
www.renozahm.com
ATTORNEYS SCOTT A. CALKINS JAMIE S. CASSEL ROBERT A. FREDRICKSON NICHOLE JOHNSON ARTHUR G. KIELTY
WAYNE T. KIM WESLEY E. LINDBERG IAN K. LINNABARY JAN H. OHLANDER R. JEROME PFISTER
ANTHONY R. PHELPS JEFFREY H. POWELL ROGER RENO MICHAEL G. SCHULTZ CRAIG P. THOMAS JACK D. WARD ERIN E. WALSH
One November 2011 » 3
Reno & Zahm is honored to be the presenting sponsor of the inaugural People You Should Know. This honor is bestowed upon a select
group of individuals, each of whom move our community forward, stand out among the
crowd and take time to enrich the lives of others. They exemplify the concept of “People You
Should Know” in every sense.
The Rockford region is blessed with a business
community steeped in leadership. The good work of
our business leaders provides a foundation for the
civic, economic and cultural vitality of the entire
community. It is critical that we do not lose sight of
our responsibility to groom and develop the next generation of leaders through mentorship so
our business community may continue to grow to realize its full potential.
At Reno & Zahm, we recognize the importance of effective mentorship, and the strength
of our team demonstrates our belief. We seek to distinguish ourselves through the quality and
character of our lawyers. The honorees also recognize the importance of achievement and
mentoring others to achieve success. Our community is filled with countless individuals who
have been positively impacted by the efforts of one or more of these People You Should Know.
The attorneys of Reno & Zahm wish to sincerely congratulate and thank the People You
Should Know award recipients. You are among Rockford’s most valuable assets.
RENO & ZAHM LLP
Sponsor’s Welcome
You know the old saying: “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know?”
Well personally, I think it’s more than a saying—it’s a mantra. It’s what Chamber members do...get to know one another, our professional triumphs and challenges.
Rockfordians have this “getting to know you” thing down. It’s one of many attributes that impresses me about our community. How about if I make networking even easier by introducing you right now to some People You Should Know in Rockford business?
We publicized the nominations for two months and reached out to the entire community to nominate the best and brightest. Eighty-five applications were received from which these individuals were selected—twenty-one of them, in fact, who contribute to the civic, economic, and cultural vitality of the Rockford area.
These honorees of various ages and occupations are the movers and shakers of our community. They represent a powerful connection within our Chamber membership. Please join me in saluting their passion and commitment. Better yet, get to know them
with a warm smile and firm handshake at your next Chamber event!As you enjoy reading about them in these pages, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the publication itself. It’s our
new magazine for Chamber members called One.One reflects our viewpoint that the Chamber is
where Rockford comes together as one voice. One community. We are the ONE information resource you need if you’re doing business in Rockford.
We wouldn’t have it any other way.
So please, sit back and soak in this inaugural issue of One. Be inspired by our inaugural “20 People You Should Know.”
And as always, let me know what you think.
President’s Letter
4 » November 2011 One
The Rockford Chamber of Commerce publishes One four times a year.
For information about advertising contact Customer Service at 815-987-8100.
Rockford Chamber of Commerce, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190 Rockford, Illinois 61101
Periodicals postage paid at Rockford, Ill.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: One, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190
Rockford, IL 61101
StaffEinar K. Forsman, President & CEO
Heidi Garner, Executive Assistant to the President
Doug Hessong, Director of Publications & Technology
Lynette Jacques, Advertising and Sponsorship Executive
Vee Jevremovic, Manager of Education Programs and Events
Cyndie Landis, Financial Assistant
Joy Moriarty, V.P. Finance
Stacy Mullins, Director of Events
Diane Navickis, Membership Development Manager
Joan Sundvall, Membership Contact Coordinator
Valerie Tippitt, Membership Development Manager
Visit us online rockfordchamber.com
oneone voice for the rockford area
business community
Einar Forsman, President/CEO Rockford Chamber
6 » November 2011 One
As we recognize our group of People You Should Know, we can examine the leadership qualities that helped to define their success. Effective leaders are those who can connect with their vision—a clear, vivid picture of where to go, as well as a firm grasp on what success looks like and how to achieve it. But it’s not enough to have a vision; our leaders must also share it and act upon it.
A leader must be able to communicate their vision clearly and passionately, as passion is contagious.
A good leader must have the discipline to work toward their vision, as well as to direct their actions and those of the team toward the goal.
Action is the mark of a leader. A leader does not suffer “analysis paralysis” but is always doing something in pursuit of the vision, inspiring others to do the same.
Integrity is the integration of outward actions and inner values. A leader must have the trust of followers and therefore must display integrity. Honest dealings, predictable reactions, well-controlled emotions, are all signs of integrity.
Creativity is the ability to think differently, to get outside of the box that constrains solutions. Creativity gives
leaders the ability to see things that
others have not seen and thus lead followers in new directions.
The most important question that a leader can ask is, “What if … ?”
Dedication means spending whatever time or energy is necessary to accomplish the task at hand. By setting an excellent example, leaders can show followers that there are no nine-to-five jobs on the team, only opportunities to achieve something great.
Openness means being able to listen to new ideas, even if they do not conform to the usual way of thinking. Good leaders are able to suspend judgment while listening to others’ ideas, as well as accept new ways of doing things that someone else thought of. Openness builds mutual respect and trust and it also keeps the team well supplied with new ideas that can further its vision.
Fairness means dealing with others consistently and justly. A leader must check all the facts and hear everyone out before passing judgment. They must avoid leaping to conclusions— and when people feel they that are being treated fairly, they reward a leader with loyalty and dedication.
Assertiveness is not the same as aggressiveness. Rather, it is the ability to clearly state what one expects so that there will be no misunderstandings. A leader must be assertive to get
the desired results and also take the responsibility to clearly understand what followers expect from their leader.
Magnanimity means giving credit where it is due. A magnanimous leader ensures that credit for successes is spread as widely as possible throughout the company. Conversely, a good leader takes personal responsibility for failures. To spread the fame and take the blame is a hallmark of effective leadership.
Leaders with humility recognize that they are no better or worse than other members of the team. A humble leader is not self-effacing but rather tries to elevate everyone.
A sense of humor is vital to relieve tension and boredom, as well as to defuse hostility. Effective leaders know how to use humor to energize followers. Humor is a form of power that provides some control over the work environment. And simply put, humor fosters good camaraderie.
As we celebrate the inaugural class of People You Should Know, we all can learn from the leadership qualities they demonstrate daily. Not only are they leaders in their respective industries, but they also provide a solid foundation on which the next generation of Rockford’s leaders can build. n
This article was excerpted from “The Top 10 Leadership Qualities” by David Hakala on Focus.com.
Making the connection:Examining the qualities of leadership
8 » November 2011 One
oneevents2011 One “People You Should Know” Reveal ReceptionReno & Zahm LLP, Presenting Sponsor Karl J. Jacobs Center, Rock Valley CollegeOctober 20, 2011
One Magazine and Rockford Chamber of Commerce celebrated the 2011 “People You Should Know” award recipients at a special reception, sponsored by Reno & Zahm. More than 250 guests enjoyed appetizers and drinks in the main hall and lounge area of the new Karl J. Jacobs Center. Chamber President Einar Forsman, Ian Linnabary of Reno & Zahm, and Mike Broski, Chamber Board Chairman announced the awards and recognized each of the twenty-one recipients.
To look at all the event pictures, go to rockfordchamber.com.
(LtoR): Einar Forsman, honoree Roberta Holzwarth, Ian Linnabary from event sponsor Reno & Zahm, and Mike Broski, Chamber Board Chairman.
Reception attendees applaud for honoree Dr. Michael Roh.
Chamber President Einar Forsman welcomes a capacity crowd of over 250 to the event. Honoree Andreas Schell and wife Anke.
The “family” at Alpine Bank gathered to support honoree Bill Roop.
One November 2011 » 9One November 2011 » 9
Mike Broski and Ian Linnabary unveil the cover of the new Chamber magazine One.
Teresa Beach-Shelow congratulates honoree Robert Trojan.
Andreas Schell and wife Anke (center) celebrate with Hamilton Sundstrand co-workers.
LoRayne Logan receives her plaque from Mike Broski and Einar Forsman.
Brent Brodeski’s parents, Sharon and Ray Brodeski, accepted the award on his behalf.
Beverly Klintworth and honoree David Klintworth network with Janna Becherer.
10 » November 2011 One
Jack Becherer and Dan Cataldi.
Lana Paris and Michelle Angileri.Richard Nordlof, LoRayne Logan, Jack Dillon and Michael King
Craig Thomas from Reno & Zahm delivered inspirational words.
Pat and Jim Keeling enjoy a moment before the ceremony.
William O’Donnell, Cathy and Robert Funderburg.
12 » November 2011 One
(LtoR) Chris and Heather Kelley, Tricia Sweeney and Jennifer Deuth Fritts.
(LtoR): Kathy Velasco, Mike Mastroianniand Jessica Jones.
(LtoR) Honoree Dana Kiley, Brenda Kiley and Paul Arco.
Kylie Crull and Michelle Polivka mingle with honorees.
Dr. Kathleen Kelly receives her award plaque. Honoree Dr. Michael Roh and wife Myong enjoy the evening.
RockfoRd Spine centeR2902 McFarland Road • Suite 300 • Rockford, IL 61107
Call 815-316-2100 or visit us online at www.rockfordspine.com
Our team of experts offer one-stop comprehensive evaluation with onsite:
The Physicians and Staff of Rockford Spine Center would like to congratulate Dr. Roh for being named one of the People You Should Know in Rockford.
RockfoRd Spine centeRRockford Spine Center is a nationally recognized
referral center of excellence, caring for the most
complex spinal cases with cutting edge technologies.
We are the only center in the region to combine the
expertise of three fellowship-trained spine surgeons—
a Mayo Clinic-trained physiatrist and a general
orthopedic surgeon.
Dr. Michael Roh
Dr. Sliva Dr. Sweet Dr. Behr Dr. Walker
n Interventional Pain Managementn MRI
n Physical Therapyn X-rayn Nerve Conduction Studies
14 » November 2011 One
People You Should Know
Power, money, prestige.These are not the goals of the individuals
celebrated here in these pages. Instead, they
started with an idea: helping others, providing
much-needed services and skill-sets. And
along the way they made connections, friends
and a reputation.
One publication is proud to present to you
some of the people you should know.
One November 2011 » 15
President Rockford Local Development Corporation
Visualizing a better Rockford
John Phelps
“We try to be as entrepreneurial as we expect our clients to be.”
For the past 10 years, John Phelps has grown the not-for-profit Rockford Local Development Corporation to manage small business loan funds for Winnebago and Boone Counties, an SBA 504 program with more than $50 million in loans supporting more than $200 million in projects, and an SBA 7a loan packaging program. “We try to be as entrepreneurial as we expect our clients to be.”
Phelps sharpened his finance and economics skills as researcher, instructor and financial analyst — and as a “student of the ’80s depression.” In the 1990s, he honed his economic development, lending, real estate development and entrepreneurial skills as chief operating officer for First Rockford Group and as executive director for the Rockford Council of 100.
One significant RLDC project was turning the abandoned K-Mart property on North Main into a $5 million mixed-use community anchored by a new medical clinic and planned 24 market-rate residential condominiums. Also important was helping homeowners — victims of the 2006 and 2007 floods at Keith Creek — by acquiring devastated properties and relocating homeowners while the City of Rockford applied for state and federal grants. “The area was not eligible for FEMA at the time.”
Many RLDC development projects have been personally important to Phelps, as the Rockford native recalls spending time — “riding bikes in the St. Anthony’s district, the Boylan High School area, along South Main and North Main.”
By Barbara Connors
16 » November 2011 One
President and Owner PR Etc.
Connections count
Rebecca Epperson
“I always try to connect people who can help each other.”
Rebecca (Kopf) Epperson is all about connections. More than once, she’s moved to a city where she knew no one and immediately started networking to find out what made the town tick and what her role in it might be.
That’s how she came to be founder of PR Etc., which is the only firm in Rockford that specializes in public relations, but also has expanded in all forms of marketing and event planning. PR Etc. has field offices in Madison and Racine, Wis., and services dozens of clients from around the globe, including Saudi Arabia.
When she arrived in 2002, she knew only one other person. Epperson started freelancing PR jobs here and soon was making a living.
“The biggest key is networking,” she says. “Two days a week, I’d go for coffees or lunches with someone I didn’t know. I’d call and say, ‘John Doe said you are a person I should meet, can we get together?’”
Epperson started PR Etc. with subcontractors and three years ago she began hiring staff. She now pays salaries and benefits to six full-timers.
Her connections have led to volunteer community involvement – with The Literacy Council, Discovery Center, YWCA and the OSF Foundation, to name a few. Her success in the business world has garnered honors, including the Chamber’s Small Business of theYear and Woman Business Owner of the Year.
Epperson, whose company hit its 2011 budget goal at the end of August, is about to move PR Etc. to bigger offices and planning to add more national and international clients as well.
By Geri Nikolai
One November 2011 » 17
Vice President Coyle Varland Insurance Agency, Inc.
The ultimate competitor
Dana Kiley
“If you want your voice heard, you have to be active.”
Dana Kiley credits his never-quit attitude to his high school days where he excelled both in basketball and golf at Boylan High School. Kiley was an all-conference golfer and played on a basketball team that lost only eight games in four years.
That same competitiveness is on display today. The Freeport native spent four years working at the Glidden Paint Company in Chicago. He moved back to Rockford and has spent the past 10 years at Coyle Varland Insurance Agency, where he is the company’s youngest partner.
Kiley enjoys working in a job where he can call on the many contacts he’s developed over the years. “I like working with all sorts of
industries and helping owners achieve their goals – whether it’s cost savings or putting better programs in place,” he said. “Every client is so different.”
“Dana consistently goes over and beyond what one would expect from their insurance agent by ensuring my business and assets are protected from any threat,” said his nominator. “Ethics and dependability are much sought after traits in today’s business world. They aren’t always found, and they aren’t always authentic. They are in Dana.”
Kiley is a founding member of NEXT Rockford, a member of the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign, president of Rockford Cosmopolitan Charities, member of First Tee of Greater Rockford, and serves on the Northern Illinois Community Foundation Scholarship Board.
“It’s important for young people to get involved,” he said. “If you want your voice heard, you have to be
active. The younger generation needs to step up and make a difference.”
By Paul Anthony Arco
18 » November 2011 One
Director of MBA Program, Community Training Rockford College
Guiding force
Jeff Fahrenwald
“I’m rewarded by seeing other people succeed.”
Jeff Fahrenwald is “an impresario of capital investment” – human capital that is, according to Robert Evans, department chair of Rockford College’s economics, business and accounting department. As a 30-year veteran and director of the MBA program and community training for the college, Fahrenwald could be a guiding force behind many of the movers and shakers in the Rockford area.
“I don’t know if I’ve had an original idea in my life. I’m just good at helping others make their ideas work.” Paying attention to others’ ideas has helped Fahrenwald expand the college’s MBA program enrollment three-fold. He formed business and student advisory boards and “just listened to people.” The growth ideas came from “the people they should come from – the businesses that hire the students and the students themselves.” Seeing a need, he also helped develop an accelerated degree completion program for adult learners and a leadership training program for employers like Hamilton Sundstrand, Rockford Public Schools District 205 and GE Aviation.
Fahrenwald says he’s often approached by former students and associates for help in refining their business plans and ideas, including Randy Baker as he was developing Five Forks and Noonan’s at Aldeen restaurants. As COO for a time, he helped grow SupplyCore into a worldwide distributor of supplies and parts. Currently, Fahrenwald is a partner with Arwadh, a Saudi Arabia-based provider of advanced technologies supporting critical infrastructure needs.
“I’m rewarded by seeing other people succeed,” Fahrenwald says. “The college has given me the space to be entrepreneurial.”
By Barbara Connors
One November 2011 » 19
CEO Practice Velocity
Speedy Rx for clinics
David Stern, MD
“We have created a need for well-trained software engineers.”
When David Stern, M.D., C.P.C, was at Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, the thought that he would forgo the practice of medicine to head a software company in 20 years was not even in the realm of possibility. Today he’s CEO of Practice Velocity, LLC, where he prescribes solutions for urgent care clinics, including computer tablet-based diagnostic record systems, specialized billing systems, practice management software and a patented record template system.
Dr. Stern and his partners at Physicians Immediate Care searched for resources that didn’t exist when they started their urgent care clinics in 1987. They needed a modified electronic medical record designed specifically for the urgent care environment, which became the catalyst for the services provided by Practice Velocity. By 2002, software engineers were writing code for programs the doctors sought to make their 19 clinics more efficient.
Today, Practice Velocity serves more than 800 urgent care clinics in 49 states. It employs 200 between two locations, and expects to continue expansion this year.
“The demand for our systems, which increased revenues, streamlined patient flow, and improved patient encounters, exploded rapidly,” Stern said.
“We have created a need for well-trained software engineers and are training other employees with new skills,” noted Stern. “And we’re doing it with funds that come from outside the area, so we are substantially contributing to the local economy, creating the ability for our employees to raise their families here.”
By Martha Byrnes
20 » November 2011 One
President Hamilton Sundstrand Electric Systems and Rockford Site Executive
Chief executive of quality
Andreas Schell
“I am a restless person who likes to challenge an environment. I have an eye for areas of improvement.”
It may be impossible to overstate the importance of quality when it comes to the parts that Hamilton Sundstrand supplies to nearly every commercial and military aircraft worldwide. Quality of these four million parts is something that German-born Andreas Schell, president of Hamilton Sundstrand’s electric systems division, is passionate about. “I am a restless person who likes to challenge an environment. I have an eye for areas of improvement.”
Since taking the helm of Rockford’s largest manufacturing employer in March, 2010, Schell has generated new contracts to develop key electric system content for next-generation commercial aircraft like the Bombardier Global 7000 and 8000 business jets, IRKUT Corporation’s MC-21 and the Mitsubishi Regional Jet. Recently he led the formation of a Chinese joint venture to co-develop and manufacture the electric power system on the COMAC C919 in a new facility in Xi’an.
Recognizing that much of the company’s economic success comes from the people of Rockford, Schell encourages his team to become involved in the community and on area nonprofit boards. “I have a fundamental belief as a business leader that you have a responsibility to the surrounding community.”
He’s a founding member of the Alignment Rockford board, where he offers his perspective on the skills students need to fill the aerospace jobs of the future. “There are more than 1,200 engineers out of 2,100 employees at Hamilton Sundstrand in Rockford. I am concerned about having enough talent to sustain that level in the future.”
By Barbara Connors
One November 2011 » 21
Executive Director Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful
Rockford area green queen
Lori Gummow
“Unless we change awareness, we’ll continue to do what we always do.”
Lori Gummow drove bales of fresh hay at her family’s farm in Rockton before she earned her driver’s license. The environmental leader of 23 years admits she was so shy at Hononegah High School, that when the principal had to sign her graduation document, he didn’t even know she was a student.
Representing the Winnebago County Cattlemen’s Association changed everything. The Rock Valley College student soon earned her leadership credentials with speeches and presentations at trade shows, fundraisers and fairs.
Armed with a Northern Illinois University public relations degree, Gummow started Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful in 1988 to improve the environment through education, public awareness and community involvement.
The organization has earned numerous environmental awards and has drawn to Rockford icons like Hollywood star Ed Begley, Jr., and Philippe Cousteau, Jr., grandson of Jacques Cousteau. The clothing drive in October inspired donations from 1,527 area households. The medication collection was recognized as Illinois’ largest. Possibly more important, it raised awareness that 3.6 billion gallons of area drinking water was protected that day.
“Lori is recognized as the local source for information with regard to all aspects of the environment,” says employee John Kloster-Prew. The organization to date has educated more than 30,000 students on reducing, reusing and recycling. “I realized that unless we changed awareness, we’d continue to do what we always do,” Gummow says.
By Barbara Connors
22 » November 2011 One
Orthopedic Spine Surgeon Co-Founder of Rockford Spine CenterMichael Roh, MD
“The era of paternalistic doctor-patient relationships is over.”
Setting it straightOrthopedic spine specialist Michael S. Roh, MD, co-founder of the
Rockford Spine Center, says he believes in conservative management and educating patients about their treatment options before offering surgical solutions. “The era of paternalistic doctor-patient relationships is over,” Dr. Roh said. “The latest research shows patients are really good at making choices about spinal care, once educated about their options.”
Rockford Spine Center specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal conditions. His particular interests include minimally-invasive spine surgery and cervical spine problems. Dr. Roh said the Spine Center prioritizes patient education, with regular community outreach and educational seminars.
Dr. Roh brought his young family to Rockford at the invitation of Fred Sweet, MD. The surgeons both completed the prestigious Fellowship in Spinal Surgery at Washington University in St. Louis. Drs. Roh and Sweet formed Rockford Spine Center in 2003, and were later joined by Chris Sliva, MD, and Marie Walker, MD.
Dr. Roh’s credentials include an undergraduate degree in computer science from Brown University, after which he graduated first in his class from Brown Medical School. He completed his orthopedic surgery residency at Columbia University in New York City, where he also served as Chief Resident. And for five years, Dr. Roh worked as a stadium physician for the New York Yankees, late in the George Steinbrenner era.
Anthony Sorkin, MD, a former colleague of Roh’s noted, “Dr. Roh could work anywhere in the country, and chooses Rockford for his practice.”
By Martha Byrnes
One November 2011 » 23
Owner workplace staffing
Finding a calling
LoRayne Logan
“I’m a perfect example of someone who followed her dream.”
LoRayne Logan learned the value of hard work growing up in Colorado, where, at age 11, she worked for her father’s agricultural implement business. “I was lucky,” she said. “My father believed in me and told me I could be anything.”
That continued as an adult when Logan was an industrial and clerical placement specialist for an area staffing service for seven years, before starting workplace staffing in 1988. “I have loved every day of this industry,” she said. “I always knew that I was an entrepreneur and would start my own business. I’m a perfect example of someone who followed her dream.”
workplace staffing helps people find employment in either manufacturing/logistics or administrative support/professional positions. Much has changed in the staffing business over the years. “Now it’s all about what you can bring to the company and help them advance. You have to be a continuous learner, personable and adaptable.”
Logan’s company has been recognized as a “Top Ten Staffing Company in the United States” by Forbes Magazine.
Logan is involved in many civic organizations, including Rockford Symphony Orchestra Foundation, Rock Valley College Foundation and Rock River Development Partnership; her past involvement includes Carpenter’s Place, New American Theater, and Zion Development. She also serves as chair of the Rockford Police and Fire Commission.
“I’ve learned so much from being involved in this community,” she said. “I’m a big believer in giving back. It comes from my heart.”
By Paul Anthony Arco
24 » November 2011 One
President Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois
Not a charity, but a chance
Samuel Schmitz
“It’s about the dignity of work.”
Sam Schmitz runs a thriving retail operation, nine stores in 18 northern Illinois counties.
Sales are up. Plans are to open more stores throughout the region. Schmitz is president of Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois,
an organization that makes money by selling donated items. The profit made goes toward helping people who face barriers —
physical, emotional or otherwise — to find employment.Running Goodwill, says Schmitz, “is the best job I’ve ever had.
It’s fascinating.” This from a man who spent two years teaching in Australia, worked for the city of Rockford under three mayors,
and ran the Employers Coalition on Health for 10 years.Goodwill’s growth under Schmitz has been dramatic.
Since he took over in 2008, retail revenue doubled to a projected $7 million this year and the number of
employees more than doubled.What’s most satisfying to Schmitz is the use of
profits. They are spent on courses in computers and financial literacy, counseling people on finding jobs, and tax filing help for people with little money. More than 4,300 people will benefit this year.
“It’s about the dignity of work,” Schmitz says. “As our founder put it, not a charity, but a chance.”
His off-duty affiliations have the same philosophy. He’s involved in the high school redesign committee
of Alignment Rockford, Rockford Local Development Corp., Workforce Investment Board, and Access Services
of Northern Illinois.“It takes business acumen,” he says, “but at the end of the
day, we’re helping people.”By Geri Nikolai
One November 2011 » 25
Attorney Holmstrom & Kennedy, P.C.
Do the right thing
Roberta Holzwarth
“Working to achieve mutually beneficial solutions is always my goal.”
Attorney Roberta L. “Bobbie” Holzwarth, J.D. represents employers in administrative proceedings, discrimination claims, breach of contract, retaliatory discharge and other employment tort claims. Practicing at Holmstrom & Kennedy, P.C., for more than 25 years, Holzwarth counsels clients about what they can do and helps them to do the right thing.
Fellow attorney Philip R. Frankfort says, “Bobbie gets to the heart of any situation, no matter how complex, and identifies the best solution.”
Bobbie is the only area attorney with the national honor of being named a Fellow of the College of Labor and Employment Lawyers. She serves on the Board of the United States Congress Office of Compliance, the agency that enforces labor and employment laws within the Legislative Branch.
“Our Board issues regulations and reviews decisions in cases involving Members of Congress and other Legislative Branch employers,” said Holzwarth.”We have adopted a collaborative approach with our stakeholders, and consider education and alternative dispute resolution to be as critical to achievement of our mission as traditional enforcement activities.”
Holzwarth is Chair of the Rockford YMCA Board, and recently participated in the selection and hiring of CEO Mike Brown. A past president of the Winnebago County Bar Association, she has been a mentor for other lawyers in the 17th Judicial Circuit, a program of the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism. Holzwarth also serves on the Circuit’s five-member Peer Review Council.
By Martha Byrnes
26 » November 2011 One
Managing Director, Wealth Management RSM McGladrey, Inc.
Results-driven advisor
David J. Klintworth
“A good advisor needs to stay knowledgeable and nimble.”
David J. Klintworth, C.F.P., P.F.S., didn’t have a mentor when he was learning the ropes of tax accounting early in his career; he learned a lot by observation. He observed that clients needed greater assistance with their personal financial situation. So, he readily agreed to build a high-net-worth individual financial advisory practice in the Rockford office, as part of a national rollout.
Klintworth has now served as a managing director of McGladrey’s Great Lakes wealth management practice for more than 10 years.
His team of nine provides financial planning, estate and tax planning, investment management and other financial services. It has grown into the largest wealth management practice within McGladrey, the fifth largest accounting firm in the U.S.
This results-oriented success is duly noted by peers he now mentors. “Dave has been involved in several industry-related committees and groups focused on sharing best practices, ideas, strategies and solutions in helping clients in the financial services industry,” said team member Mark Siegmund.
“He has a passion for helping people. Dave stays ahead of the curve in estate and personal tax law, which allows him to help clients adjust their plans on an ongoing basis.”
In the community, Klintworth shares his talents as chair of the investment committee for the Janet Wattles Foundation, as a director of the Rockford Symphony
Orchestra, and as Treasurer of the Northern Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA).
By Martha Byrnes
One November 2011 » 27
Chief Medical Officer, Chief Quality Officer SwedishAmerican Health System
A physician’s passion
Kathleen Kelly, MD
“I am a caregiver at heart and have always had a desire to take care of people in need.”
There was never a doubt that Kathleen Kelly, M.D., would grow up to become a physician. Even as a five-year-old, she gave her dolls the best possible care. “I am a caregiver at heart and have always had a desire to take care of people in need,” she said.
The New York native joined the SwedishAmerican Medical Group in 1991, and 11 years later became the system’s Chief Medical Officer and Chief Quality Officer, a position she holds today. “While I found direct patient care extremely rewarding,” she said, “I developed an interest in improving the quality of health care for groups of individuals through our health plans, and now for all patients of SwedishAmerican Health System and our community.”
“Dr. Kelly understands that healthcare is a complex, costly, people-driven business,” says her nominator. “She believes that education about chronic disease, support for better health choices, and preventive services play key roles in maintaining health and wellness.”
With healthcare’s many moving parts (technology, people, patients), Dr. Kelly’s challenge is to provide reliable delivery of high quality care as efficiently and safely as possible.
“Some of the greatest advocates for our health system are patients who have helped SwedishAmerican identify processes in need of improvement through their own challenging experiences, and have worked with us to raise the bar for other patients,” she said. “I get up every morning truly excited to carry out the mission of my health system. I want to be known as a physician and administrator who will go to great lengths to find creative solutions for our patients.”
By Paul Anthony Arco
28 » November 2011 One
Managing Director BMO Harris BankKathy L. Weber
It’s her passion for people and her ability to organize and manage that got Kathy L. Weber noticed in her climb from teller to commercial lending to wealth management executive. An executive whose business and civic life is deeply woven in the fabric of the Rockford community, Kathy has held the position of Managing Director, Rockford Market, Harris Private Bank since 2010.
Kathy enjoys opening doors and gets people to answer their phones all over town.
“I try to lead by example,” Weber said. “To grow our market, I will go on joint calls with bankers to build relationships and trust with clients.” She oversees a professional wealth services team that includes portfolio managers, trust administrators, private bankers and wealth advisers.
Weber also gets to know potential high-net-worth clients by serving with them on community boards such as the Coronado Performing Arts Center and Rockford Park District Foundation. She is Chair of the 2012 American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women” luncheon.
Alongside her husband Butch, Weber has also gained planning experience at home, managing the athletic activities of their four sons, three of whom are now coaches.
Weber said, “I enjoy helping families and individuals organize and strategize their options, so they can get to their
financial dreams.”By Martha Byrnes
“I try to lead by example.”
Opens Your Doors
One November 2011 » 29
Principal Loescher & Associates Ltd.
It’s not just bean counting
Dan Loescher
“People need to invest in people.”
Being an accountant is an exciting job for Dan Loescher who started Loescher & Associates in 1995 after 19 years with Coopers & Lybrand, because it means being of service.
He recalls a woman who came to see him after the unexpected death of her husband. She said a friend sent her. “What is it that you do?” she asked. “What is it that you want me to do?” he answered. “What do you need?”
“Sure, I do tax returns.” he says. “What I enjoy is helping people. Say it’s time to transfer wealth. What do you want to do philanthropically, for your children, parents? I act as a successor trustee and executor for estates. I do what people need me to do.”
Outside of the office, Loescher likes to help make things happen for organizations he serves voluntarily, including Rockford College, Northern Illinois Center for Non-Profit Excellence, SwedishAmerican Health System, Woodward Governor Co. Charitable Trust, Rockford Local Development Corp., and more. In the past he has served on many others, including Crusader Health Foundation and Alzheimer’s Association. He is the 2006 winner of the Register Star’s Excalibur Award.
Helping make things happen is what Loescher enjoys. Spending time recruiting clients and making more money doesn’t drive him. Making positive things happen, does.
“My premise,” he says, “is that this is a caring, giving community. It’s not a matter of getting noticed. It’s a belief that people need to invest in people.”
By Geri Nikolai
30 » November 2011 One
President Rock Valley College
Teaching life’s lessons
Jack Becherer
“This is a passionate part of my life.”The first class Jack Becherer ever taught
was an evening psychology class. Despite being younger than his students, the experience left an indelible mark on the professor. “It was a metaphor of my life,” he said. “I’ve always learned more from students than I could teach them.”
Becherer has spent 34 years as a professor and administrator at five community colleges, including the last seven as president of Rock Valley College. “This is a passionate part of my life. It’s important to help students gain confidence and see their potential. That’s what community college is all about.”
Under Becherer’s leadership, Rock Valley has remodeled and upgraded the Student Center, the Physical Education Building, the Estelle M. Black Library, built the $28 million Karl J. Jacobs Center for Science and Math, and has secured $48 million to build an arts instructional center.
“We’ve done a lot of work to improve our facility to serve the region,” he said. “A community college can help determine the quality of life for citizens and serve the vitality of our community. It’s a privilege to be at Rock Valley College.”
Becherer, a St. Louis native, has served on various boards, including the Rockford Area Economic Development Council, Rockford Health System and the Golden Apple Foundation. He is co-founder and executive board member of Alignment Rockford, a community endeavor to improve student achievement in the Rockford Public Schools.
“Dr. Becherer is an active listener who can help seemingly diametrically opposed positions find common ground and resolution,” said his nominator. “He passionately believes that education is the means to better lives and a stronger community.”
By Paul Anthony Arco
One November 2011 » 31
President and CEO Alpine Bank
Banking on success
William Roop
“I’ve always had a passion to learn through hands-on experiences.”
When Bill Roop launched his career in the mid 1970s, at a small bank in Savanna, Ill., he opted to spend his vacations learning the inner workings of the bank, rather than fish or vacation at some exotic destination. “I’ve always had a passion to learn through hands-on experiences,” he said. “That’s probably helped me more than anything else.”
The Sheboygan, Wis. native moved to the area in 1983 to work for the Funderburg family at their Belvidere Bank; in 1984, he became president of The Valley Bank, and in 1996, he became president and CEO of Alpine Bank, where he remains today.
Much has changed in Roop’s 35 years in banking, especially when it comes to technology. “When I started, the only customer information that was digital or electronic was checking,” he said. “Everything else was done by hand. Now we have hundreds of customers banking on PDAs.”
Roop is an active community volunteer. He chairs the Rockford Area Economic Development Council and SwedishAmerican Health System boards; he is immediate past chairman of the Rockford Boys & Girls Club and Rockford Area Crime Stoppers, and past board member of the Rock Valley College Foundation.
Hanging in Roop’s office is a clock given to him as a thank you gift from a satisfied client, whom Roop helped finance his business. It serves as a reminder as to why he went into banking. “I enjoy helping individuals buy a home or start a business, and to see them grow and prosper,” he said. “Even when I drive through a subdivision, it feels good knowing that we helped put that together.”
By Paul Anthony Arco
32 » November 2011 One
Security Manager United Parcel Service
A public guardian
Gary Caruana
“From global issues to the smallest customer – everything is on the front burner.”
It’s all about logistics for UPS. The world’s largest package delivery service prides itself on moving more material to more places faster than anyone else.
Getting that done day after day are professionals like Gary Caruana, security manager of the massive UPS regional air hub at Chicago Rockford Airport. Caruana oversees security for the Rockford air hub as well as UPS air operations at O’Hare and Peoria and ground delivery systems in 12 cities.
All that grew out of an interest in security that Caruana brought with him when he joined UPS as a driver in 1986. He was 28 years old, had been a Winnebago County sheriff ’s deputy for eight years, and wanted something new.
Caruana moved up the ranks in UPS and, in 2002, was promoted to his current position, where he is concerned not only with logistics but also about safety and loss prevention.
“We deal with security from global issues down to the smallest customer,” Caruana says. “Getting a Christmas gift to someone in California on time is as important to us as preventing a major threat. Everything is on the front burner.”
To that end, Caruana works not only with the FAA and TSA on high-level security topics but also on packaging and claims issues that arise with the hundreds of thousands of items shipped through the UPS operations on his watch everyday.
The preventive and investigative issues that arise each day make for an intensive work experience. Caruana relaxes later, golfing, SCUBA diving or riding his Harley. That comes after volunteer work, which includes United Way, Special Olympics and Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful, and serving on the Rockford Police and Fire Commission.
By Geri Nikolai
One November 2011 » 33
CEO Savant Capital Management
Investment visionary
Brent Brodeski
“There is not one ‘cookbook’ answer for each investor.”
Brent Brodeski remembers he always was starting businesses growing up —beginning at five when he sold bags of candy to his father’s co-workers. After college in 1992, he co-founded Savant Capital Management with Thomas Muldowney. Since then, the firm has risen to become Rockford’s largest Registered Investment Advisor firm, managing more than $2 billion in assets for high net-worth individuals and institutions.
Brodeski says he’s good at seeing a vision, creating excitement, and outlining steps around that vision. He applies that approach towards the growth of his employees and clients as well. He characterizes Savant’s roughly 80 employees as “a team that’s willing to go all in.” Instead of set job descriptions, the firm hires “the best and the smartest,” and they create custom job descriptions based on an inventory of the team’s talents and personal goals.
That same customized approach applies towards clients’ success. “We decided we wanted no conflicts of interest with our clients and to invest as we would for our own families.” Savant’s planning tool, The Wise Wealth Integrator™, helps clients create their vision, identify obstacles, and form a plan that aligns with their vision.
For the future, one of Brodeski’s “BHAGs”, “Big, Hairy, Audacious, Goals,” is to expand Savant’s strong local brand regionally and nationally – and expand to cities like Milwaukee. His media profile has contributed in part to his company’s strong brand through national acclaims like “RIA Giant” and appearances in publications like Barron’s, Forbes, BusinessWeek and InvestmentNews.
By Barbara Connors
34 » November 2011 One
President Rockford Linear Actuation, Inc.
Making every opportunity count
Robert Trojan
Robert Trojan came to Rockford in 1990 as president of Hydro-Line, Inc. When the company was acquired and relocated in 2001, Trojan didn’t panic. Instead, the company leader started a new business, and in the process, saved 21 jobs.
Rockford Linear Actuation, Inc. designs, manufactures and sells lines of hydraulic cylinders used in numerous industrial applications servicing domestic and international distributors and customers.
That’s not to say it’s always been smooth sailing for Rockford Linear. As with most businesses, there have been tough economic times, but the company has managed to weather the financial storm by tightening it budgets, while hustling for new business. The judicious moves have paid off in a big way for Trojan’s company. “We have customers today that we didn’t have three years ago,” he said.
Trojan has participated on many boards, including Goodwill/Abilities Center, Rockford Area Ventures, Manufacturing Alliance of the Rock River Valley (MARRV), Rockford Area Chamber of Commerce and chair of the Manufacturing Council, and co-chair of the Citizens for Rebuilding Rockford. He also has been instrumental in organizing many events, including the Manufacturing Dinner and Expo and Student Factory Tours.
Trojan has realized another interest – he served as a community member for the Rockford Register Star’s Editorial Board. He likes tackling issues that impact his business and sharing his insights with other business leaders in a blog that he writes. “Every day is a challenge,” he said. “Is it a problem or an opportunity? I look at things as an opportunity. I would rather maintain a can do attitude, instead of wringing my hands.”
By Paul Anthony Arco
“Every day is a challenge… I look at things as an opportunity.”
One November 2011 » 35
Partner Hinshaw & Culbertson
Leveraging time
James W. Keeling
“Golf is a unique sport in that you call penalties on yourself.”
Jim Keeling grew up in Rockford and returned after law school in 1974 to join a three-lawyer office. Today, he’s partner in the same firm, now part of Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP, the largest private practice law office in the state outside of Cook County.
Keeling brings a sense of community to work with him. While advising the Winnebago County Housing Authority on the Hope VI residential development, Keeling suggested the Authority set up headquarters in the neighborhood’s Washington Park Community Center run by the Park District. That arrangement has become a national model.
That story of networking is Jim’s stock in trade in his legal work, as well as civic engagement. He learned how to do that, he says, while playing golf.
“We need to develop our young people as citizens and I believe recreation and civility are basics,” says Keeling. What better game to teach those basics than golf? That’s why Keeling is involved in the area’s First Tee and Junior Golf organizations. “Golf is a unique sport in that you call penalties on yourself.”
Keeling is deeply committed to Rockford College, where he serves on the Board, and to Operation Respect, a national anti-bullying program. Keeling sees both as perfect fits philosophically with the Peace Plaza he and his wife Pam envisioned and built on Perryville Road with developer Sunil Puri.
Keeling has become one of the “go to” people to enlist in fundraising. He helped raise money for the Perryville recreation paths, Sportscore 2, youth golf programs and the Nicholas Conservatory.
“I don’t have time to coach a team or read to kids at school,” Keeling explains. “But I can leverage my time and talents to impact people community-wide, which is what I like to do.”
By Geri Nikolai
36 » November 2011 One
Selection CommitteeThank you to our committee who dedicated time and effort to make the difficult choices.
Andy Benson, Benson Stone Company
Veronica Blake, Hamilton Sundstrand
Joe Castrogiovanni, Giovanni’s
Dan Cataldi, Eigerlab
Kelly Davit, The Alliance
Ian Linnabary, Reno & Zahm LLP
Dan O’Boyle, Coyle-Varland Insurance Agency
Jennifer Wood, Sikich LLP
The Karl J. Jacobs Center for Science and Math on the Rock Valley College campus provided the backdrop for our People You
Should Know photography and the location of the celebratory reception.The building was named for former Rock Valley President Karl
Jacobs. Jacobs served as president of Rock Valley College from 1969 to 1997. He worked to create many academic programs and building projects to serve the college as well as the region. It has state-of-the-art technology and equipment, including six physical science labs, six life science labs, 12 classrooms, faculty offices, math lab space and student resource areas, and student study and lounge spaces.
The center is completely heated and cooled by a geothermal system. The building has a greenhouse, outdoor rain gardens and green roofs that contain plant material to help absorb heat. Fritted windows regulate light and heat into the building based on the direction of the sun. There’s also a large pendulum that hangs from the third floor and serves as an educational tool to demonstrate the earth’s rotation.
One November 2011 » 37
The Venue
Paul Anthony Arco is a staff writer for Northwest Quarterly Magazine, and frequent contributor to the Chamber newspaper, The VOICE. His work has appeared in the Chicago Tribune, Bloomberg News, Rockford Register Star and many others. For more information, visit paulanthonyarco.com
Martha Byrnes is a customer service account executive at Lifetouch in Loves Park, assisting the publishing company’s guests create online yearbooks. The Roscoe resident is also a freelance creative services consultant, drawing from her experience in public relations,
marketing, constituent publications and editing, as well as an independent Creative Memories consultant.
Barbara Connors, M.S., journalism, University of Illinois, is a writer/editor with 20+ years experience managing magazines, newspapers and newsletters in the manufacturing, automotive, business, health care, real estate, senior living and farming
industries. She currently is half-way towards completing her BSN degree.
Geri Nikolai is a freelance writer who spent 40 years in the newsrooms of Rockford Register Star and Wausau, Wis., Daily Herald, She’s been a Rockfordian since 1986.
38 » November 2011 One
Meet the writers
One November 2011 » 39
42 » November 2011 One
Brian Thomas Photography and Velasco & Associates:
Two companies that worked together to help create One publication.
And proud to help represent the People You Should Know.
Proud.
815-395-1105brianthomasphotography.com
815-397-6052velascomarketing.com
For advertising rates
and a publication schedule,
please contact
Lynette Jacques at the
Rockford Chamber of
Commerce.
Lynette Jacques Advertising and Sponsorship [email protected]
This is the one to be in!
one
Congratulations!The Rockford Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors would like to extend their
congratulations to the twenty-one “People You Should Know!”
Your Rockford Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
Teresa Beach-ShelowSuperior Joining Technologies
Romero Bennett Blue Sky Insurance Agency
Andrew BensonBenson Stone Company
Walter BootheBMO Harris Bank
Ryan BraunsRockford Consulting & Brokerage
Larry BridgelandMid-City Office Products
Michael BroskiEntré Computer Solutions
Paul CallighanComEd
Joe CastrogiovanniGiovanni’s
J. ChapmanMaverick Media
Rena CotsonesNorthern Illinois University
Janyce FaddenRockford Area Economic Development Council
Darlene FurstFurst Staffing
John GrohRockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Penny LechtenbergHinshaw & Culbertson
Pam MaherKMK Media Group
Mike MastroianniRock Valle College
Paul McCannStanley Steemer of Rockford
Patrick MorrowAlpine Bank
John OllerPBC Linear
Mark PetersonCBL Associates CherryVale
Dee PremoWhitehead Realtors
Peter RickerRockford Register Star
Tim RollinsWilliamsMcCarthy
Dan SaavedraSaavedra Gehlhausen Architects
Henry SeyboldRockford Health Systems
Patrick ShawRSM McGladrey
Patti ThayerThayer Lighting
Rich WalshSwedishAmerican Health System
Jennifer WoodSikich LLP
Richard ZumwaltOSF Saint Anthony Medical Center
Visit us online
rockfordchamber.com
