New Forest Preserve Honors Late Birdwatcher in Shirland
The Paula Swanson Forest Preserve is the 45th preserve owned by the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County.
Warm Temps Persist Across Northern Illinois, Elevated Fire Risk Wednesday
Orangeville Native Tessa Janecke Leads Team USA to Olympic Gold Medal Game
Lifestyle
Rockford Students Explore Engineering Careers at Upcoming Event
Rock Valley College hosts 'Engineering the Future' to connect students with employers and educators.

Rockford's Best Appetizers Ranked
These Rockford restaurants are serving up the top appetizers in town, according to Yelp users.
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.
Business
7 Brew Drive-Thru Development Hits Zoning Hurdles in Rockford
Rockford planners raise concerns over parking, pavement, and median removal for proposed coffee shop location.

Gustafson's Furniture Closure and Reopening Confusion Leaves Rockford Customers Uncertain
Furniture store's social media announcements and deleted posts add to uncertainty for customers awaiting deliveries.
Rockford City Council Reconsiders $200,000 McDonald's Incentive
Alderman Karen Hoffman leads motion to revisit previously approved funding for proposed West Side location.
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.
Entertainment
Comedian Nate Bargatze Serves as Daytona 500 Grand Marshal
Bargatze's 'Big Dumb Eyes World Tour' set a record for biggest one-year gross by a comedy performer.

Big Country Acts Headline February Concerts Across Illinois and Missouri
From Rascal Flatts to Eric Church, the Midwest is set for a month of major country music events.
Mitchell Tenpenny Announces 'Speed of Light' Tour for 2026
The country star's headlining run kicks off in February with support from Jake Banfield.
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