Lifestyle
Gerald 'Jerry' Downen, 81, of Rockford, IL Passes Away
Downen served in the U.S. Marine Corps and had a long career in the tech industry.
Rockford's Top Pizza Spots Revealed on National Pizza Day
Yelp rankings show local favorites, but some are closed for the holiday
Rockford Teachers Union and School District Conclude Tense Bargaining Session
Details of the meeting remain unknown as both sides seek to avoid a potential strike.
Sports
Rockford Hosts Annual AHL All-Star Classic
Blackhawks' AHL affiliate IceHogs take center stage at premier minor league hockey event.
Illinois State Head Football Coach Discusses Playoff Run and Rockford Roots
Brock Spack led the Redbirds to the FCS Championship game despite being heavy underdogs in four straight playoff games.
Rockford's Hard Rock Casino Hosts Free Super Bowl Viewing Party
Over 200 screens across the casino property will show the big game, including a giant cafe screen.
Crime
13-Year-Old Charged in Rockford Stolen Car Incident
The minor faces multiple charges after leading police on a high-speed chase and foot pursuit.
Bomb Threat at Rockford Hard Rock Casino, Armed Arrest Hours Later
Two separate incidents near Rockford entertainment spots lead to terrorism, weapons, and drug charges as Illinois police make swift arrests.
Man Charged for Stealing $250K Dodge Challenger Demon, Linked to Prior Hellcat Theft Attempt
Suspect Myqwon Greer allegedly broke into a Wisconsin dealership, stole the rare Demon model, and caused thousands in property damage.
Business
Rockford City Council Reconsiders $200,000 McDonald's Incentive
Alderman Karen Hoffman leads motion to revisit previously approved funding for proposed West Side location.
ComEd Launches New Low-Income Discount Program
Program provides bill discounts of 3-6% of household income for eligible customers
Smokey Bones Restaurants to Close After Parent Company Files for Bankruptcy
Fat Brands, which owns Smokey Bones and other chains, plans to shutter at least 6 locations this year as part of Chapter 11 filing.
Politics
Illinois Bill Would Require High Schoolers to Attend Government Meetings
New proposal aims to boost civic engagement through hands-on experience
Bishops Celebrate Mass for Solidarity Between African and U.S. Catholics
Liturgy highlights shared faith and mission between the two church communities
Religious Leaders Unite in Washington for Solidarity with Africa
Bishops from the U.S. and Africa hold Mass and advocacy events to address religious freedom concerns in Nigeria
