Plans move ahead to bring new event space to old Ellida Lodge in Rockford’s...
ROCKFORD — A local family received preliminary approval on Tuesday for their plans to turn the former Ellida Lodge in Midtown into a creative event space. We first told you about the vision for Spider on Quinta, 1111 Fifth Ave., a month ago. Owner Anahi Rubi, whose family has run Spider Sushi Bar for 17 years,...
Rockford-area religious leaders call for togetherness
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) - Following a deadly attack at a religious gathering in Australia, local faith leaders reflect on how moments like this affect communities during an already meaningful time of year. The tragic event comes as many religious groups observe major holidays, including Hanukkah, a time traditionally...
The 10 most popular housing markets in 2025: Zillow
Six of the 10 most popular housing markets were in the Midwest as affordability remains a top concern.
Winnebago County leaders sound alarm on alcoholism following Illinois’ first report
The report documents how the state drinks alcohol, including its use and misuse impacting health and safety.
Norad prepares to track Santa’s journey for the 70th year
(WIFR) - He’s made his list and now he’s checking it twice. Santa Claus is almost ready to come to town. NORAD gears up to track him for the 70th year. The North American Aerospace Defense Command monitors and defends North American airspace 24/7, 365 days a year. However, every December fourth, an extra special...
Freeport brewery set to close in January 2026, owners say
Freeport's Generation Brewing Company announced plans to close after 11 years in business.
Former 15th & Chris owner, James Purifoy, set to change plea in federal arson...
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) - The man charged with setting fire to his own business is scheduled to change his plea, according to federal court documents. James Purifoy, 51, was indicted earlier this year for the January 2023 arson at 15th and Chris, 201 15th Avenue. Purifoy owned the business for 10 years prior to the fire.
Illinois Is Great at Making New Laws
Rockford, Ill (WTVO) — Tim Mahoney stopped by to talk to us about some of the new laws hitting the books in 2026!. “There’s a lot of good stuff. Just because there’s a lot of laws, doesn’t mean they’re bad.” Tim says. Some of...
Rockford’s Village Green to close Dec. 23 after 60 years of blooming success
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) - Brisk winter temperatures couldn’t keep local customers from visiting Village Green Nursery on Tuesday afternoon to say goodbye to the popular shopping destination. The home and garden center’s last day will be December 23. Village Green sold to Platt Hill Nursery, another family owned...
Friend who bought gun for Kyle Rittenhouse accused of robbing two people from Janesville...
JANESVILLE — Two people from Janesville say they were robbed last week in Harvard, Illinois, while selling jewelry to someone through Facebook marketplace. It turns out that one of the accused robbers is the friend who bought the gun that notorious shooter Kyle Rittenhouse used to kill two men in 2020 during protests...

















