Grab some friends and get building! After a too-long hiatus, this beloved race is back, and with it comes a supply of wild, wacky homemade watercraft. ...

What once was a dilapidated building in an industrial district has found new life as a destination for people to live, work and play. Now, as many return to business-as-usual, the Brewhouse is prepared for many a social event. For many years, Prairie Street Brewing Co. has served as a social landmark in Rockford. It’s where people go to grab ...

Now that summer is here, it’s time to get a much-needed change of scenery. Our region is ripe with luxurious hotels, thriving state parks, bustling downtowns and hidden attractions that bring you face-to-face with the refreshing waterfront. Where do you want to begin? ...

For thousands of years, native people enjoyed the scenic juncture where the Rock and Kishwaukee rivers meet. Step inside the stately manor atop its bluffs, and see why this gentleman's farm and has much to teach us about ourselves. ...

Recreation opportunities abound in our region! Here are a few of the best our area has to offer. ...

The Rock River has suffered the impact of urbanization, but many dedicated groups have worked and are working to restore its health. Jon McGinty explores the impact of these efforts, including recognition by the National Park Service. ...

Sure you know about the Wild West of the Gold Rush, but long before that, settlers found plenty of adventure here, in Illinois. Janine Pumilia explores how our area developed when only animals and flatboats carried goods across the river. Editor’s Note: This is a reprint of a story we first ran in Summer 2012. See the original here. O ...

The "Pride of Oregon" and one of the Rock River's most popular dining attractions is forging ahead, as its new owners continue to improve this local landmark. ...

His poet-philosopher cousin is more famous, but this Rockford businessman had the practical sense to develop many of the city's most important industries. Discover more about this man who stood tall in our community. ...

He may have come from Michigan, but this morning show news anchor is finding himself quite at home in the Forest City. ...