New exhibit reveals history of Freeport Pretzels
Visitors can now explore the story behind Freeport’s distinctive Pretzels nickname through a new exhibit at the Stephenson County Historical Museum. The exhibit traces how the nickname developed from early newspaper references into an official part of Freeport’s identity, according to a community announcement. Museum v
ISP Troop 1 Announces Results of Special Patrols in July
PECATONICA – Illinois State Police (ISP) Troop 1 Commander, Captain Ken Benson, has announced the results of three special patrols in Whiteside, Lee, and Winnebago counties during July. Alcohol Countermeasure Enforcement (ACE) patrols in Whiteside and Winnebago counties allowed the ISP to focus on preventing, detecting
In Illinois, a growing community of compulsive gamblers offers hope
(Editor’s note: Some individuals in this story are identified only by first name and last initial at their request to allow them to speak openly about their addiction without fear of reprisal for actions taken when gambling.) At his worst, Jimmy M. was a rough-and-tumble bar fighter. But he can also be a major mama’s b
Freeport bus pilot program delayed by state review
Freeport's new fixed-route bus pilot has been postponed as state transportation officials complete additional review requirements. The Fixed Route Pilot Program had been scheduled to begin Aug. 3 and would have introduced scheduled bus service with designated stops and planned arrival times throughout the city. Pretzel
City Council approves plan for new Culver’s on former Rockford school site
ROCKFORD — City Council members on Monday approved a pair of items that clear the way for developers to tear down the vacant Morris Kennedy School to build a new Culver’s restaurant. Aldermen voted 14-0 to approve a zoning map amendment and 13-1 to OK a sign variance...
Adopt 815: Meet ‘Teddy Bear’
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) - A six-year-old kitty is ready to trade his ‘tomcat’ street life for a cozy couch to call his own. For this week’s Adopt 815, we introduce you to ‘Teddy Bear,’ a domestic shorthair cat up for adoption at Winnebago County Animal Services.
Rockford man arrested after fleeing from traffic stop, police say
A Rockford man was arrested after allegedly fleeing a traffic stop Sunday evening, according to Rockford Police.
Interfaith friendship shines as Rockford congregation returns home months after sanctuary fire
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) - One Rockford congregation’s journey back home has been measured in months, not days. On Sunday, members of Christ United Methodist Church returned to their campus for the first time since a devastating fire earlier this year, reflecting on the interfaith neighbors who stood beside them along the
Man hospitalized after snapping phone during drug arrest in Rockford
Anthony Beardsley, 21, was jailed in Rockford, Illinois, on suspicion of drug dealing after police discovered cannabis, cocaine, and firearms in his vehicle during a traffic stop.
Rockford officials offer emergency backup number amid Comcast 911 outage
Comcast VoIP customers in Illinois faced issues dialing 911 on August 3, leading officials to advise calling the Rockford Emergency Communications Center's non-emergency line.

















