CONVERTING WASTE INTO ENERGY
the
CHAIRMAN CHIARELLI
of the greater rockford business community
THE YEAR OF PEACH FUZZ
A healthier, more vibrant Rockford
The Rockford Garden Club encourages residents to decorate their pots, hanging baskets and gardens with peach-colored flowers in honor of “Peach Fuzz,” Pantone’s 2024 Color of the Year. Pantone chose this shade of peachyorange for its warm, welcoming glow, and gardeners and homeowners are embracing it.
How healthcare evolution shapes our community By Caitlin Pusateri, Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce
The Rockford region has long been a testament to resilience and innovation. Over the years, our community has witnessed significant transformations, particularly in the healthcare sector. This evolution not only enhances the quality of care available to residents, but it bolsters the local economy through job creation and charitable initiatives. In this month’s issue of The Voice, we highlight the advancements, compassion and community spirit of our local healthcare organizations, specifically, the three major health systems—UW
In conjunction with the RAVCB, the Rockford Garden Club will plant the Downtown Rockford ‘Four Corner’ plots with the theme color. They also plan to place peach-themed pots outside the Rockford Peaches baseball park.
Health, Mercyhealth, and OSF Saint Anthony. In the Rockford region, the presence of three major health systems ensures access to quality healthcare services and serves as a cornerstone of economic development. Through job creation, talent
attraction,
growing
support
industries, and promotion of community well-being, UW Health, Mercyhealth, and OSF Saint Anthony contribute to the city’s economic vitality and resilience. By recognizing the interconnectedness of healthcare and economic development, Rockford can continue to leverage its healthcare assets to build a prosperous
Exemplary care and innovation The healthcare landscape in the Rockford region has changed significantly in recent years, with mergers taking place, facility upgrades across all health systems and new technology that has pushed the boundaries of medicine and saved lives. After the acquisition of SwedishAmerican Health System by UW Health, the Rockford community continues to benefit from state-of-theart healthcare and services. UW Health remains steadfast in its commitment to integration and community involvement, (continued on page 9)
and sustainable future for all.
GUEST COLUMNIST
Strategic advocacy The role of government affairs in supporting local businesses DR. LITESA WALLACE, founder of LITE Strategies LLC
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MARK TICHGELAAR PAGE 17
PAGE 8 June 2024 | Volume 37 | No. 6
IS YOUR TEAM ALIGNED?
In today’s economic environment, local businesses can find navigating the legislative landscape challenging. Often referred to as lobbying or government affairs, strategic advocacy can bridge the gap between local enterprises and legislative bodies, ensuring that the interests of small and mid-sized businesses are well represented.
A tool for economic development Government affairs is often misunderstood as merely a conduit for large corporate interests. However, at its core, lobbying is about advocacy,
information gathering and partnership. For local businesses in Illinois, engaging in lobbying activities can be a powerful tool to drive economic development. By actively participating in the legislative process, businesses can advocate for policies that directly benefit them, such as tax incentives, infrastructure improvements and regulatory changes. One significant area where lobbying has proven effective is in securing state grants and funding for local projects. For example, through strategic advocacy efforts, several Illinois towns successfully obtained state funds to improve local (continued on page 4)
Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens will participate by adding peach-colored plants to their 100+ hanging pots this summer. Plant some “Peach Fuzz” in your neighborhood this summer and watch Rockford bloom.
CITY MARKET VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Rock River Development Partnership hosts the Rockford City Market every Friday, May 17-Sept. 27 in downtown Rockford. They’re looking for volunteers to act as Gate Greeters for the market. Individual and group volunteers are welcome and may sign up for one date or multiple markets. Group volunteers will also be given a free booth space to promote their organization during the market. This is the perfect opportunity for nonprofits, clubs, schools and sports groups to serve the community while promoting their organization and/or next event. For more information on volunteering, please contact amy.ekberg@rrdp.org or call 815-315-1332.
SAVE THE DATE 2024 Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner Thursday, September 19 5-8 p.m. Tebala Event Center 7910 Newburg Rd Rockford, IL 61108 Register online at rockfordchamber.com presented by: