Today will be the coldest day of the work week, gradual warm-up follows
Winter is here. No, not officially as the winter solstice isn’t scheduled to occur until December 21st. However, mother nature is providing us with a taste of what is to come with the recent snowfall and this bitterly cold batch of Arctic air. Temperatures prior to this morning’s commute...
A few snow showers possible overnight, with a gradual warming trend
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) - The snow has ended, but it was a cold and blustery day across the stateline, with daytime highs slightly above the freezing mark. After some partial clearing this evening, expect the clouds to increase overnight tonight with lows in the 20s by early tomorrow morning. Download...
Rockford council member proposes $500K for new fire station
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) - A city council member proposes using $500,000 from the cannabis and casino fund to purchase land for a new fire station. Tim Durkee said a 2021 study showed response times to fire calls increased. His proposal would set aside the money from the budget to buy land for what would become...
GoFundMe started to save gymnastics school in Roscoe
ROSCOE, Ill. (WIFR) - Parents in Roscoe launch an online fundraiser to keep the doors of an area gymnastics school open. Gymnastic Academy North said it may close due to health and financial challenges. However, some community members are determined to keep the organization they love alive. Owners of Gymnastic...
Rockford budget keeping property taxes flat with cannabis revenue clears first hurdle
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) - The City of Rockford’s finance director returned to her spreadsheets following feedback from council members. “The work of government is building consensus,” she told WIFR. In her initial presentation on the city’s proposed budget for 2026 on October 20, Carrie Hagerty outlined a roughly $3.7...
Local pantries hit hard as SNAP benefits remain in limbo
As discussion over the allocation of SNAP benefits continues at the federal level, food pantries in the Rockford area are struggling to meet increased demand.
Pearl City native shares her journey from farm life to medicine
Dr. Marie Heimerdinger, a Pearl City native and Highland Community College alum, will speak at the college Nov. 13. The event, hosted by the Women+ in Science Club, will take place at 1:30 p.m. in the Natural Science Center, Room N-107. A virtual attendance option is also available, according to a community...
Rockford-native Michelle Williams nominated for Grammy Award
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) - A Rockford native, most known for her work as part of Destiny’s Child, could snag her second Grammy Award in 2026. Michelle Williams and the team behind “Death Becomes Her” are nominated for Best Musical Theater Album. After 20 years of not being...
Rockford’s Klehm Arboretum sundial turns heads this fall
With daylight saving time ending, the Harezlak Family Sundial at Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden offers some of the most striking views of the year. The sundial, crafted from limestone, Corten steel and decorative gravel, honors the community contributions of Jean and Dennis Harezlak and their family, according to a...
3 Illinois Spots Make List Of Scariest Graveyards In America
From ghost stories to personal fears, the mysteries of cemeteries have intrigued many. Some of the scariest spots in Illinois might just be on your list.
