Walking back to my hotel after an early morning presentation to the Rockford Area CVB Board, I came upon a corner that made me smile (click image to enlarge).
It was the stone in front of the Rockford Park District that read "Webbs Norman Center." Along with former CVB CEO Wendy Perks Fisher, Webbs was one of the early national visionaries that saw the potential in Sports Tourism almost 40 years ago. It was their early partnership that set into motion the transformation of Rockford Tourism. This video offers a glimpse of that relationship.
My smile grew larger when I noticed that the street in front of the Webbs Norman Center has been renamed Tim Dimke Drive...as Tim and his crew took Webbs' and Wendy's vision and expanded it even further with current RACVB CEO John Groh.
As I ducked into the sensational riverfront Embassy Suites Hotel for a quick bite before heading out, I had to smile again because I heard joy and laughter coming out of the kitchen...and that's a sound we've all missed over the past few years. But, there it was...and, as I surveyed my fellow diners, I could see how infectious it was for all of us.
And, that's just damn good management...the kind that empowers employees to have fun, please the guest and take incredible pride in their work.
Thanks Rockford...let's see if my next stop continues the streak.
I'm proud to have directed that video and to have worked with those special people for many, many years prior to its production. I first met Webbs when I was just ten years old. I remember that encounter like it was yesterday. The proverbial molds were broken when Wendy and Webbs were born. The effects of their good work will be felt in the Rockford Region as long is it exists. Good post, Bill.
Posted by: Jay Graham | April 26, 2023 at 10:36
Y'all have been a force that has propelled the renaissance of Rockford! Kudos to the max.
Posted by: Bill Geist | April 26, 2023 at 23:01
The subtext of this post (love it, Bill!), is the power of succession and assurances that the next generation of talent has equal or greater passion for executing toward that transformational vision. I’m sorry our paths didn’t cross while you were in town, Bill. Maybe next time! — AKL
Posted by: Angela Kay Larson | May 23, 2023 at 12:53
It's been way too long!
Posted by: Bill Geist | May 23, 2023 at 16:13