Forward Janesville - TheReport - Fourth Quarter 2021

4 • W W W . F O R W A R D J A N E S V I L L E . C O M Curt Parish • Interm President, Forward Janesville CELEBRATING OUR GOOD FORTUNE As I reflect on my three months as Interim CEO, I am amazed at the level of activity in the office. When I was approached in August about assuming this temporary role, I quickly agreed. As a longtime member, I am passionate about Forward Janesville and its role in the community. In recent years, much has been accomplished in collaboration with the city, the school district, and the county, along with private businesses. Still, I underestimated the current level of activity and the partnerships involved with upcoming initiatives. We are blessed with experienced, committed staff, as well as an active, supportive Board of Directors. The leadership provided by the Executive Committee is phenomenal, as evidenced by the recent accomplishments. And there is more on the radar—a Children’s Museum, the Woodman’s Athletic & Conference Center, the opportunity with the former Shopko property, and interest in the GM property, just to list a few. My role is to continue to support these talented people on these important projects for the wellbeing of all of Janesville. The one question I get almost daily is, how is the search going? Please know that our recruiter, QTI out of Madison, continues a very active process. Headed up by Londa Dewey, the firm’s CEO, an update was provided to our full Board at our November meeting. They continue to identify good prospects, but the current job market has proved to be challenging. We all knew that John Beckord would not easily be replaced! Another current priority is identifying individuals for local elected positions. History shows us that we can accomplish a lot when we collaborate with local governmental offices. As of December 1, candidates can circulate nomination papers. Competitive races between qualified and enthusiastic candidates ensure that our community can address both new opportunities and challenges. My request to each of you is to look around at your business, your neighbors, and your friends. Are there people that are committed to seeing Janesville and Rock County continue to advance and who want this area to be an attractive place for them to live and work? If so, please encourage and support them to run. We have made great progress downtown and around the area. These successes will continue if we have elected officials that are passionate about the possibilities, and willing to commit the time to make it happen. If you have questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact me or our VP of Government Relations, Dan Cunningham. Most importantly, the holidays are here. Take the time to enjoy the season with family and friends. Stay happy and healthy—we are truly blessed! As a longtime member, I am passionate about Forward Janesville and its role in the community. In recent years, much has been accomplished in collaboration with the city, the school district, and the county, along with private businesses.