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GOVERNMENT
Rockford-area shelters help panhandlers get off the streets and start a new beginning
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) - While it’s common to see panhandlers at certain stateline intersections, leaders say there are ways to help those people get the resources they need. In the state of Illinois, panhandling is legal, as long as it isn’t aggressive. While many feel police should get involved, the City of Rockford says the best thing to do is refer panhandlers to shelters like the Rockford Rescue Mission.
Residents near Chemtool can file claims for a portion of the $94.5 million settlement
Chemtool has posted a claim form online which will allow residents to receive a portion of a $94.5 million settlement over property damage caused by the devastating explosion and fire on June 14, 2021, at Lubrizol's Chemtool facility in Rockton, Illinois. The claim form went online on June 14, 2024, three years after the explosion. The case is called 'Grasley v. Chemtool.' Another lawsuit, filed by Sara Henderson, Nick Migliore, and Stephanie Mackey, is referred to as 'Mackey.' Both would be settled at the same time.
Rockford Park District celebrates the completion of $760K park renovation
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — The Rockford Park District celebrated the completion of the $760,000 Wantz Memorial Park remodel located at 602 East Riverside Boulevard. The Rockford Park District was awarded $315,000 from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development grant and was able to use $405,000 out of its capital […]
Rock County Board approves updated casino agreement with Beloit, Ho Chunk Nation
BELOIT – A future casino in Beloit took a step forward Thursday night as the Rock County Board updated an intergovernmental agreement for the project between the city of Beloit, the county and the Ho Chunk Nation. The vote was 27-1 vote with Supervisor Kevin Stone the sole dissenter. The casino is proposed to be constructed on property owned by the Ho-Chunk Nation in the city of Beloit. ...
Wantz Memorial Park grand reopening held in Loves Park
LOVES PARK, Ill. (WIFR) - After nearly a year of remodeling, a popular Loves Park neighborhood park reopens on Saturday. Dozens of families and youth gathered at the Wantz Memorial Park, 602 E Riverside Blvd., to break in the new playground equipment. Children explored new updates in the park including a spray pad, picnic pavilion, ball field and more.
Krueger Pool in Beloit temporarily closed to replace mechanical issue
BELOIT, Wis. WIFR) - The City of Beloit says Krueger Pool is closed until further notice because of a significant mechanical issue. They encourage the community to use the splash pads at Vernon and Regina Dunkin Parks or the water feature at Riverside Park. An update will be provided on...
Where to celebrate the Fourth of July, see fireworks around the stateline
STATELINE (WIFR) - Communities across the stateline are celebrating Independence Day with fireworks, parades, and festivals. Below is a list of celebrations happening in the area. Admission may apply for some events. WINNEBAGO COUNTY. Rockford 4th of July; fireworks will begin at 9:30 p.m. on July 4 in downtown Rockford....
Rockford residents press ahead for a city council permanent cease-fire resolution
Since January some Rockford residents have called on the Rockford City Council to pass a permanent cease-fire resolution in the Israel-Hamas War. Nationwide, over 100 cities have passed ceasefire resolutions including Atlanta, Detroit, Chicago, Villa Park and Bridgeview, which is home to a large Palestinian community. Faiza Harunani was among...
Loss of state grocery tax could have big impact on Rockford-area communities
LOVES PARK, Ill. (WTVO) – Loves Park Mayor Greg Jury wasn’t excited when Illinois officials announced the elimination of the 1-percent grocery tax as of Jan. 1, 2026. Loves Park generates between $500,00 and $600,000 in grocery tax every year, funds that pay for public safety and other central services. “That 1% might not be […]
Stateline communities to celebrate Juneteenth
(WIFR) - Multiple celebrations are taking place in the stateline to mark Juneteenth. Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, the day when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas finally learned of their freedom, a full two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. On June 17, 2021, Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, was declared a federal holiday.
Moorland Road reconstruction complete between Beloit, National
WAUKESHA, Wis. - The Waukesha County Department of Public Works marked the completion on Friday, June 14 of a segment of the Moorland Road reconstruction project between Beloit Road (CTH O) and National Avenue (CTH ES). A news release says the 1.4 mile long project included improvements such as pavement...
Block parties take over downtown Rockford for Father’s Day weekend
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) - Downtown Rockford on Friday, June 14, could shape up to be pretty crowded. If you plan on being in the area, plan accordingly. Friday events include the Fred VanVleet Block Party, comedy shows from Shane Gillis at the BMO Center and Kevin James at the Coronado Theatre, along with the Screw City Block Party and Rockford City Market.
Rock County Board approves ARPA funds for Beloit Fresh Start program
BELOIT — The Rock County Board Thursday night voted to give federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to Beloit’s Fresh Start program after other grant funding for the program fell through. The vote was 25-3 with Supervisors Mike Schwarz, Christine Fugelseth and Ron Woodman dissenting. Fresh Start is an education and job training program serving youth ages 16-24. The students are enrolled full-time and attend 32 to 34 hours...
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