Business

Beloit-based Blackhawk Bank acquired by First Mid Bank & Trust

March 21, 2023 @ 2:50 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app BELOIT, Wis. — Blackhawk Bank, which has served the region for more than 140...

Rockford brothers' company Phateez breaks the mold for sunglasses

March 21, 2023 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Brothers Josh and Jacob Montoya may not have literally broken the mold...

Camera Craft, Rockford's last locally owned camera store, will close in April

March 17, 2023 @ 8:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Camera Craft, the last independently owned camera store in the region, will...

Parks Chamber leader to retire next month, successor named lead it 'into the fut...

March 17, 2023 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app LOVES PARK — Tonya Lamia will retire next month as the leader of the...

Shear Determination: Barber moving to Rockford wants to help more women break in...

March 16, 2023 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — First things first, let’s get Elena Martinez’s title straight: She’s a barber,...

Charcuterie, pinchos and caviar: Social has reopened in downtown Rockford with a...

March 15, 2023 @ 1:25 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — A downtown bar and restaurant has reopened with a new concept inspired...

Roxy Carmichael plans to move this summer to Edgebrook in Rockford

March 15, 2023 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Locally owned fashion retailer Roxy Carmichael plans to leave the shop it has...

Rockford Roasting Co. to close its original shop, consolidate 'all of our passio...

March 10, 2023 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Rockford Roasting Co. plans to close its original roasting facility and brew...

Sector 815 brings laser tag back to former Laser Quest in Rockford

March 10, 2023 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Laser tag has returned to a building where the live-action game was...

'27 phenomenal years': Crimson Ridge in Rockford clears final inventory, closes ...

March 9, 2023 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Over roughly two decades as a customer, Judy Lindberg said Crimson Ridge‘s...

Customers dig for deals at new bin shopping store in Rockford

March 8, 2023 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — On a recent Thursday inside the city’s newest discount store, customers hunting...

Dari Fair, a summertime tradition in Rockford since the 1960s, is for sale

March 2, 2023 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Dari Fair, an ice cream shop that’s been a summertime tradition on...

Riverfront luxury lofts coming to Beloit, future tenants can pre-lease now

March 1, 2023 @ 3:47 pm

Rock River Current Get our mobile app BELOIT, Wis. — Hendricks Commercial Properties announced Wednesday that it is pre-leasing for future tenants of its...

Irish Rose Saloon announces indefinite closure due to family illness

March 1, 2023 @ 8:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — The Irish Rose Saloon, a staple for fine dining in downtown for...

New car wash opens in Loves Park, offers free washes this weekend

February 24, 2023 @ 12:07 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app LOVES PARK — The city’s street crews have already poured out nearly 2,700 tons...

Rockford's 5 independent bookstores team up to boost each other's business with ...

February 23, 2023 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — When Dave Pedersen opened Maze Books last summer, one of his earliest...

Tropical Smoothie Cafe plans to expand across Rockford region, offer career grow...

February 22, 2023 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Tropical Smoothie Cafe plans to open its first restaurant in the city...

Half Price Books Outlet to close its Rockford location this spring

February 21, 2023 @ 10:55 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our Newsletter ROCKFORD — A family-owned bookstore chain that specializes in secondhand and discount books, movies and...

'I'm happy to finally open': Chavez Mexican Restaurante open for business in Roc...

February 17, 2023 @ 9:47 am

By Paul Anthony Arco Special to the Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — The long wait is finally over. Chavez Mexican...

A hoppy couple: Belvidere natives plan to open downtown brewery

February 14, 2023 @ 6:00 am

By Paul Anthony Arco Special to the Rock River Current Download our mobile app BELVIDERE — Whenever Belvidere natives Ryan and Cheryl Morris take...

Tropical Smoothie Cafe to open first location in Rockford this spring

February 13, 2023 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Tropical Smoothie Cafe plans to open its first location in the city...

Rockford Casino starts 2023 with near-record admissions, revenue

February 10, 2023 @ 11:05 am

Hard Rock Casino numbers Infogram By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Rockford Casino kicked off 2023 by...

Why now? Behind the Rockford Speedway's decision to make this its final season

February 8, 2023 @ 3:47 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app LOVES PARK — Years ago, Tom Deery recalls, people would talk about going “up...

Rockford Speedway says this season will be its last, ending 76 years of racing h...

February 8, 2023 @ 8:34 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app LOVES PARK — The Rockford Speedway said Wednesday that this upcoming season would be...

Live-action laser tag to return to former Laser Quest in Rockford with new techn...

February 7, 2023 @ 1:14 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — A laser tag business that ran for nearly three decades is being...

Carlyle Brewing Co. owners to retire, nearby Rockford business to 'continue the ...

February 6, 2023 @ 10:38 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — The owners of a downtown brewery plan to retire after two decades in...

Belvidere family physician recognized for leadership, care

February 3, 2023 @ 11:57 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app BELVIDERE — A family medicine physician at Belvidere Crusader Community Health Clinic was honored...

What to expect in the Rockford real estate market in 2023

February 2, 2023 @ 7:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — The Rockford region’s real-estate market has gone through back-to-back record-breaking years with...

815 Yoga Collective to expand with more holistic services at Edgebrook in Rockfo...

February 1, 2023 @ 6:15 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Ally Ubiparipovic and Jaime Fagan are ready for Rockford to see yoga...

Galaxy Hair Studio reveals location of new downtown Rockford space

January 28, 2023 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Galaxy Hair Studio has revealed the location of its new downtown salon...

UW Health has renamed its clinic on Marchesano Drive in Rockford

January 27, 2023 @ 11:45 am

From news release Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — UW Health has officially renamed its Riverwest Clinic to UW Health Marchesano...

'The work environment of the future': Here is Rockford's newest coworking space

January 25, 2023 @ 6:02 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Katie Spondouris has one of the best views of the city from...

Designer clothing retailer moving from downtown Rockford into Edgebrook shopping...

January 19, 2023 @ 11:32 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — A downtown retailer of designer clothing, shoes, jewelry and other fashion accessories...

A downtown Rockford retail shop's closure will allow another business to grow

January 18, 2023 @ 6:59 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — The closure of one downtown business is giving another room to grow....

It's showtime: New event space opens near former Schnucks on Rockton Avenue in R...

January 18, 2023 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — A new venture inside the Rockton Avenue Shopping Center on the city’s...

It's showtime: New event space opens near former Schnucks on Rockton Avenue in R...

January 18, 2023 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — A new venture inside the Rockton Avenue Shopping Center on the city’s...

Developers target spring to open building that will house Five Guys, Tropical Sm...

January 9, 2023 @ 7:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app MACHESNEY PARK — Developers say they’re targeting spring to complete a three-tenant building near...

Beefaroo opens new Rockford restaurant, its ninth in Illinois

December 20, 2022 @ 2:23 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Beefaroo has opened its eighth location in the Rockford area and ninth...

Mondelez agrees to sell gum business, including Loves Park plant, to maker of Me...

December 19, 2022 @ 12:33 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app LOVES PARK — Mondelēz International has agreed to sell its developed-market gum business, including...

Mondelez agrees to sell gum business, including Loves Park plant, to maker of Me...

December 19, 2022 @ 12:33 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app LOVES PARK — Mondelēz International has agreed to sell its developed-market gum business, including...

Bounces to shed ounces: Trampoline fitness trend comes to Rockford area

December 19, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app CHERRY VALLEY — Michelle Young dims the lights before the evening class begins at...

Crimson Ridge in Rockford to close flower shop, too and end operations after mor...

December 14, 2022 @ 4:22 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — After announcing in August that it would shut down its retail operations,...

Harlem High School grad returns home to open own optometry practice

December 13, 2022 @ 5:38 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app LOVES PARK — Dr. Jennifer Dungan says the birth of her older son was...

This business makes sparks fly: Meet Rockford's new permanent jewelry vendor

December 13, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Katie Thompson has faced a few misconceptions about her new permanent jewelry...

'Uplift your routine': New bungee fitness facility in Rockton to host grand open...

December 7, 2022 @ 5:55 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKTON — Need something to spice up your workout routine? Uplift Bungee Fitness is...

'A little bit of everything': Rooted marks 1 year of bringing big-city boutique ...

December 6, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — When Elizabeth Schaer opened her shop in the North End neighborhood, she...

Cucina di Rosa in Rockford announces plans to close at year's end

November 29, 2022 @ 4:00 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — An Italian restaurant known for its sweet desserts is set to close...

Rockford Better Business Bureau offers tips to avoid Cyber Monday scams

November 28, 2022 @ 11:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — The Better Business Bureau is warning online shoppers of common Cyber Monday...

'Supporting someone's dream': Rockford-area businesses tout importance of shoppi...

November 25, 2022 @ 6:15 am

By Chelsea Meyer Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — The busiest spending day of the year is here, and holiday shoppers have...

Podcast: The importance of buying local with Lauren V. Davis

November 25, 2022 @ 6:00 am

Lauren V. Davis, co-founder and president of Winnebago Buy Local, joins Matt and Chelsea on the B103 Morning Routine to talk about Small Business...

Podcast: The importance of buying local with ...

Rock River Current Podcasts

Candy Cloud in Rockford launches franchise program, hopes to open next storefron...

November 25, 2022 @ 5:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Candy Cloud’s owners want their store to be a nationwide name, and...

Athletico Physical Therapy marks 1 year in Machesney Park with Parks Chamber eve...

November 22, 2022 @ 7:26 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app MACHESNEY PARK — Athletico Physical Therapy marked one year in business in the village...

Geronimo Hospitality Group hires new general manager for Lucy's #7 Burger Bar in...

November 18, 2022 @ 8:53 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app BELOIT — One of Geronimo Hospitality Group’s many downtown Beloit businesses, Lucy’s #7 Burger...

Freeport man's traveling plant shop is literally the cat's meow

November 10, 2022 @ 6:30 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app FREEPORT — John Miller didn’t set out to be Freeport’s catnip dealer when he...

Tad More Tailoring in Rockford wants you to look stylish and 'save the world at ...

November 9, 2022 @ 3:44 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Sarene Alsharif wants you to take a second look at second-hand clothing. Alsharif...

Crusader Community Health in Rockford names new chief medical officer

November 8, 2022 @ 10:44 am

Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Crusader Community Health has named Dr. Gary Fernando as its new chief medical officer. Fernando most...

New downtown Rockford store focuses on more sustainable shopping habits

November 8, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Ade Villatoro is ready to revolutionize the way Rockford thinks about shopping. She...

New restaurant in Rockford offers fried chicken and Arabic cuisine

November 4, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — A new restaurant offering traditional fried chicken and an Arabic menu opened...

Rockford-area housing market begins to cool, but prices remain near record highs

November 1, 2022 @ 6:30 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — The region’s housing market showed its first signs of cooling last month...

German American State Bank opens new downtown Pecatonica branch

October 31, 2022 @ 2:39 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app PECATONICA — German American State Bank has opened a new branch in the heart...

New fitness and training facility set to open in Machesney Park by the end of th...

October 25, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app MACHESNEY PARK — A new fitness facility is coming to the village by the...

New fitness and training facility set to open in Machesney Park by the end of th...

October 25, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app MACHESNEY PARK — A new fitness facility is coming to the village by the...

Machesney Park mayor teases multiple new businesses in State of the Parks speech

October 19, 2022 @ 7:10 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app LOVES PARK — The village of Machesney Park’s most active business corridor is nearly...

'Celebrate different milestones': New event space to fill former Rent-A-Center i...

October 18, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app LOVES PARK — An event-hosting business is moving to the Meadow Mart Shopping Center...

What's next for Rockford City Market? This survey will help decide

October 7, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Rockford City Market is conducting its end-of-season survey as it tries to...

You can literally eat like a king at Thai Jasmine Rice and Noodles in Rockford

October 6, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — At the city’s newest Thai restaurant, you can literally eat like a...

Mission BBQ to open in Rockford next week

October 4, 2022 @ 6:30 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — On a mission for Mission BBQ? The wait is almost over. The...

As Rockford City Market wraps up its season, more of its vendors are set to grad...

September 30, 2022 @ 9:29 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Aakash Patel was running a Roly Poly sandwich franchise when Rockford City...

'Make this dream a reality': Hard Rock goes from when will you start to when wil...

September 28, 2022 @ 7:00 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Before shovels hit the dirt Wednesday at the future Hard Rock Casino...

KFC in south Rockford reopens after repairs

September 28, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — The KFC restaurant on 11th Street has reopened after repairing a gas leak...

Arby's closes South Alpine restaurant in Rockford

September 26, 2022 @ 3:45 pm

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — The global fast food chain Arby’s closed one of its nine locations...

Cajun and Creole restaurant in Rockford to close at month's end

September 23, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — 815 Cajun announced it will close its doors at the end of...

'Big contributors to the community': Shosies Cyclery in Loves Park set to close

September 16, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app LOVES PARK — Shosies Cyclery is set to close at the end of the...

Another fast-food addition is coming to Loves Park's growing restaurant corridor

September 16, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app LOVES PARK — The city’s corridor of restaurants off the interstate already has coffee,...

'A big milestone': Rock'n Vodka surpasses half-million dollars invested in Rockf...

September 15, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — A fast-growing vodka company has surpassed a major investment milestone with more...

New Mexican restaurant to fill former Riverside Family Restaurant in Loves Park

September 15, 2022 @ 5:45 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app LOVES PARK — A new restaurant coming to Riverside Boulevard wants to serve you...

Rockford florist who spread acts of kindness, brought personal touch to business...

September 9, 2022 @ 2:54 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — A floral design, interior decorating and event planning shop that sprouted from...

Does your guinea pig need a spa day? This new Rockford shop has you covered

September 9, 2022 @ 7:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — A new boutique store at Edgebrook Shops puts a big focus on...

Does your guinea pig need a spa day? This new Rockford shop has you covered

September 9, 2022 @ 7:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — A new boutique store at Edgebrook Shops puts a big focus on...

New shoe shop moves into former Fred VanVleet store in downtown Rockford

September 8, 2022 @ 11:26 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — A new shoe and streetwear store downtown carries more than 20 different...

'I dreamed of these doughnuts': Edwards Apple Orchard is 'an experience' for del...

September 7, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app POPLAR GROVE — When Rockford-born Harlow Kedzie moved to Tampa, Florida, she often found...

Stateline Fast Pitch, a 'premiere' event for entrepreneurs, to return to Rockfor...

September 6, 2022 @ 12:47 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — A competition that gives local inventors and entrepreneurs a chance to pitch...

Coming soon: 4 new businesses set to open (and 2 changing locations) in the Rock...

September 6, 2022 @ 11:25 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Coming soon signs have been popping up around the city the last...

Natural light and Napoli's pizza: New Loves Park slot spot has a different feel

September 1, 2022 @ 1:03 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app LOVES PARK — Pam Manning watched the progress being made on renovations to the...

Subway to move into former Taco John's in south Rockford

September 1, 2022 @ 7:37 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Subway is moving out of Alpine Plaza and into the former Taco...

A new food truck in Loves Park combines award-winning BBQ with THC

August 31, 2022 @ 1:35 pm

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app LOVES PARK — Little Nick’s BBQ is bringing you food on the go with...

Rockford man blends art and baking to make custom cakes for people and pets

August 31, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Michael Ramos combines his passion for art and desserts in his at-home...

Rockford man blends art and baking to make custom cakes for people and pets

August 31, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Michael Ramos combines his passion for art and desserts in his at-home...

Third generation family-owned company moving into former Rockford Products site

August 29, 2022 @ 9:06 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — A third generation family-owned company is moving into the former Rockford Products...

Evolve Dance Co. moves into new space at Edgebrook in Rockford

August 27, 2022 @ 4:10 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Evolve Dance Co. celebrated the start of a new chapter on Saturday...

Photos: Opening weekend at Edwards Apple Orchard in Poplar Grove

August 27, 2022 @ 1:29 pm

Apple orchards across the Rockford region opened for business this weekend. We stopped by Edwards Apple Orchard, 7061 Centerville Road in Poplar Grove, on...

New Gymnastic Academy of Rockford owner envisions growth, inclusion

August 27, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Katelynn Landis initially saw her first job at Gymnastic Academy of Rockford...

Associated Bank to close Rockton Avenue branch in Rockford

August 26, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Associated Bank plans to close its Rockton Avenue branch later this year...

Roscoe-based roofing and siding company lands on America's Fastest Growing Compa...

August 25, 2022 @ 12:58 pm

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROSCOE — Roscoe-based Martin Exteriors has landed on Inc. 5000’s America’s Fastest Growing Companies...

Chuck E. Cheese, a home for birthday celebrations in Rockford for 34 years, gets...

August 24, 2022 @ 7:13 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Chuck E. Cheese has revamped its Rockford entertainment center with new games,...

'There's going to be lots of Baked Wings': New Loves Park restaurant has big exp...

August 19, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app LOVES PARK — A business that was born out of the pandemic as a...

'There's going to be lots of Baked Wings': New Loves Park restaurant has big exp...

August 19, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app LOVES PARK — A business that was born out of the pandemic as a...

Crimson Ridge says it will close its retail space, return to roots as a flower s...

August 12, 2022 @ 8:01 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Crimson Ridge announced this morning that it would close its upstairs retail...

Rockford Public Schools to host hiring event. Some positions offer $3K signing b...

August 9, 2022 @ 9:15 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Rockford Public Schools will host another hiring event this month to fill...

LADIWORKZ, a resource for entrepreneurs of all kinds, moves to new spot in Loves...

August 8, 2022 @ 7:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app LOVES PARK — When you work with Brandi Morris you can get exposure to...

'More than fashion': Rockford born hip-hop artist opens store in Midtown to cele...

July 26, 2022 @ 6:30 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Dana Reeder wants to bring his love for hip-hop to Midtown with a new...

Blue Collar Coffee Co. moves locations in downtown Beloit

July 20, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our newsletter BELOIT — Blue Collar Coffee Co., is moving locations in downtown Beloit to offer better...

'We get paid to make people happy': BW Event & Decor set to open first storefron...

July 15, 2022 @ 5:30 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — The Kardashians are known for throwing their children flamboyant parties with vibrant decor,...

Edwards Apple Orchard announces opening date for 2022 season

July 12, 2022 @ 12:36 pm

By Chelsea Meyer Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — A sign of cooler temperatures — along with crisp red, yellow and orange...

Crusader Community Health celebrates 50 years of serving the Rockford region

July 12, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Steve Summers and Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Crusader Community Health is celebrating 50 years of providing health...

Crusader Community Health celebrates 50 years...

Rock River Current Podcasts

'It's a resource for everyone': Rock Valley alumnus opens production studio in d...

July 12, 2022 @ 5:30 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Josiah Sjostrom credits Rock Valley College for strengthening his love for filmmaking in...

Rockford Public School District 205 is hosting hiring event

July 7, 2022 @ 1:36 pm

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Looking for a job in education? Rockford Public Schools is hosting a hiring...

Sweet Basil Cafe in Cherry Valley plans to reopen after repairs

June 28, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our newsletter CHERRY VALLEY — Sweet Basil Cafe abruptly shut its doors earlier this month after a...

Edgebrook looks for new tenant to fill Mary's Market space in Rockford

June 24, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk and Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Edgebrook Shopping Center is working to find a new tenant...

Mary's Market in Rockford's Edgebrook Shopping Center permanently closes

June 23, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Mary’s Market in the Edgebrook Shopping Center, which initially opted to close temporarily...

Female Energy celebrates women-owned small businesses, community and artists in ...

June 22, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Evangelina Jimenez set out to prove that she could thrive as a female...

Culture Shock to celebrate 16 years in business with a party in Rockford

June 17, 2022 @ 12:28 pm

By Chelsea Meyer Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — At age 24, Skylar Davis had to sell records from his personal collection...

Judging a book by its cover is part of the charm of shopping at Maze Books in Ro...

June 16, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — At downtown’s newest independent book store, you’re welcome to judge a book by...

Rockford airport ranked in top 15 for cargo weight landed in the country

June 14, 2022 @ 11:46 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Chicago Rockford International Airport ranks as the 14th largest cargo airport in the...

The Norwegian Artist Lofts is set to show off its North End space with an open-h...

June 9, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Tucked above The Norwegian restaurant is a group of business owners and artists...

Drink in '90s nostalgia at this new downtown Rockford coffee shop

June 8, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Walking into Pete DuFoe’s new downtown coffee shop is a bit like walking...

'A cheesecake lover's dream come true': Brothers bring their desserts to Machesn...

June 8, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our newsletter MACHESNEY PARK — After supplying other restaurants with desserts, two brothers are bringing their homemade...

ROTD Crafter's Corner celebrates grand opening of its new location in Loves Park

June 1, 2022 @ 1:37 pm

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our newsletter LOVES PARK — A husband and wife team has brought their full-service print and vinyl...

Fred VanVleet Shop closes downtown Rockford storefront, but a new location is in...

May 27, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — The Fred VanVleet Shop has closed its downtown storefront, but VanVleet’s marketing director...

New indoor adventure park coming to Rockford

May 25, 2022 @ 7:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — A new indoor trampoline and adventure park is set to open this winter...

New indoor adventure park coming to Rockford

May 25, 2022 @ 7:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — A new indoor trampoline and adventure park is set to open this winter...

New indoor adventure park coming to Rockford

May 25, 2022 @ 7:00 am

By Mary Sisk Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — A new indoor trampoline and adventure park is set to open this winter...

Mobile health unit brings screenings and other care to people in northern Illino...

May 19, 2022 @ 1:32 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — UW Health is bringing health screenings and other medical care directly to people...

Mary's By Design in Rockford to close after 24 years in business

May 19, 2022 @ 7:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Mary’s By Design, a family-run home decor store, plans to close this summer...

Mary's By Design in Rockford to close after 24 years in business

May 19, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Mary’s By Design, a family-run home decor store, plans to close this summer...

Mary's By Design in Rockford to close after 24 years in business

May 19, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Mary’s By Design, a family-run home decor store, plans to close this summer...

Here's how you can invest in this fast-growing Rockford vodka company

May 18, 2022 @ 5:45 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — You can now invest in a fast-growing vodka company with a local ownership...

New event space The Bricks breathing new life into Cherry Valley

May 16, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Chelsea Meyer Rock River Current Get our newsletter CHERRY VALLEY — The village has a brand new event space in its cozy, quaint,...

Northwest Bank names new president and CEO

May 12, 2022 @ 1:03 pm

From news release Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Northwest Bank of Rockford has named its next president and CEO. Ryan Miller...

'Pioneering' Loves Park dart company named Small Business Exporter of the Year

May 6, 2022 @ 12:00 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter LOVES PARK — An innovative Loves Park company that has darted its products from here...

'A landmark here in Rockford': Lino's Restaurant marks 50 years in business

May 3, 2022 @ 6:02 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Sitting down to dine at Lino’s Restaurant can spark feelings of nostalgia for...

How the groundUP stores went from a simple sticker to a multifaceted maintenance...

April 29, 2022 @ 12:26 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter MACHESNEY PARK— It started with a sticker. It was 2006 and Sam Furman, who had...

'It felt like home': Real Beautiful You opens in historic Emerson house in Rockf...

April 29, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — You wouldn’t immediately recognize Rachel Bagne’s business as a health center upon stepping...

212 Grindhouse announces sudden closure of downtown Rockford burger restaurant

April 27, 2022 @ 9:11 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — A downtown burger restaurant closed its doors Tuesday evening in an abrupt move...

The Mill aims for late summer opening after renovating former Cronies in Machesn...

April 27, 2022 @ 5:45 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter MACHESNEY PARK — A husband-and-wife team is busy renovating the former Cronies Bar & Grill...

Pit Stop convenience store one of several new businesses at Machesney Park strip...

April 27, 2022 @ 5:30 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter MACHESNEY PARK — The former Short Stop Food Mart and liquor store is being remodeled...

'The future is bright under her leadership': Caitlin Pusateri named president of...

April 26, 2022 @ 1:19 pm

From news release Rock River Current Get our Newsletter ROCKFORD — Caitlin Pusateri has been named the new president of the Rockford Chamber of...

Northwest Bank is still serving Rockford 50 years after 'a leap of faith'

April 22, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — It may seem like an unlikely group of investors to start a bank....

She returned to her hometown to help you make 'your perfect home decor' in Loves...

April 21, 2022 @ 11:22 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter LOVES PARK— Diann Panozzo was in Frisco, Texas, when she stepped foot inside an AR...

State Street will be partially closed during Rockford City Market

April 18, 2022 @ 9:00 pm

Aldermen voted 10-2 on Monday, April 18, 2022, to keep State Street closed between Madison and Wyman streets during Rockford City Market. (Photo by...

'They give back to everybody': Rockford veteran known for his generosity gifted ...

April 15, 2022 @ 2:37 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Gene Schaefer’s first reaction was surprise. Then, he tried to find a way...

Hawthorne Race Course opens OTB at Shooter's Bar in Rockford

April 14, 2022 @ 1:48 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — The city has a newly remodeled horse betting facility, and it’s a change...

'I'd like to be like a Shark Tank': Multifaceted Amez Enterprises looks for more...

March 21, 2022 @ 3:04 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter MACHESNEY PARK — If you ask Bryan and Amanda Amezquita what the future holds for...

Bath & Body Fusion opens in Beloit, its second brick-and-mortar location

March 3, 2022 @ 12:22 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter BELOIT, Wis. — Bath & Body Fusion has expanded across the state line, opening a...

Saluting Women Owned Businesses in the Stateline: FurstStaffing in Rockford

March 1, 2022 @ 8:25 am

About this feature March is Women’s History Month and Northwest Bank, B103 and the Rock River Current are saluting women owned and operated businesses...

Learn to start or grow your business at ACE expo in Rockford

February 28, 2022 @ 12:06 pm

By Matt Hall Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — If you’re looking to start or grow your business, you may want to...

CVS Health to close south Rockford location

February 4, 2022 @ 12:14 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — CVS Health will close its pharmacy and convenience store on South Alpine Road...

Satisfying your sweet tooth will get more expensive as Hershey's raises prices

February 4, 2022 @ 11:08 am

From news reports B103 Rockford Get our newsletter Hershey is raising prices this year. The chocolate company said Thursday that it is planning “list...

Customers 'elated' with return of Carlyle Brewing Co. in Rockford

February 2, 2022 @ 5:53 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Mike Youngblood was cleaning out his home bar area about two days ago...

Black Women in Business Expo aims to support and inspire entrepreneurs

February 1, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter BELOIT, Wis. — Four years ago, a group of about a dozen Black women came...

Krispy Kreme to give blood donors free donuts and coffee

January 25, 2022 @ 11:23 am

By Chelsea Meyer B103 Rockford Get our newsletter To help combat the nationwide blood shortage, Krispy Kreme is giving away free donuts and coffee....

The Parks Chamber's newest series connects government and business leaders

January 18, 2022 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter LOVES PARK — When the coronavirus pandemic took hold in spring 2020 – leading to...

Collins Aerospace in Rockford to upgrade B-52 bomber's electric power generation...

January 11, 2022 @ 9:42 am

From news reports Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — A Rockford-based aerospace company will play a key role in modernizing the U.S....

Hard Rock names new president of Rockford Casino

January 6, 2022 @ 3:29 pm

From news reports Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Hard Rock has officially named Geno Iafrate as the president of its new Rockford Casino. A...

Hard Rock names new president of Rockford Casino

January 6, 2022 @ 3:29 pm

From news reports Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Hard Rock has officially named Geno Iafrate as the president of its new Rockford Casino. A...

Baci's Kitchen in Rockford to close after 5 years

January 5, 2022 @ 5:30 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Baci’s Kitchen, a family owned restaurant that serves everything from calzones to healthy...

Eyewitness News in Rockford names new morning anchor

January 5, 2022 @ 5:00 am

From news reports Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — Eyewitness News has named a new morning anchor for its shows on WTVO...

Here's a peek inside The Content Factory, a new selfie museum in Loves Park

December 3, 2021 @ 6:15 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter LOVES PARK — The Content Factory, the area’s first full-time selfie museum and content creative...

A hit new business: D-BAT Rockford offers year-round training ground

December 3, 2021 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter LOVES PARK — A new business aims to help athletes hone their pitching, hitting and...

'A creative playground': Step up your social media at new Loves Park business

November 18, 2021 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter LOVES PARK — Calling all creators: A new business coming to North Second Street wants...

New grocery store to open near shuttered Schnucks on Rockton Avenue in Rockford

November 15, 2021 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — When the Schnucks on Rockton Avenue closed its doors in July 2018, Sonya...

How Costco helped Loves Park weather The Great Lockdown

November 1, 2021 @ 10:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter LOVES PARK — When business activity dwindled to a crawl in March 2020 after statewide...

Firefighter opens business for new, old-school gamers in Machesney Park

October 28, 2021 @ 5:06 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our Newsletter MACHESNEY PARK — As long as Chad Cunningham is in business you’ll be able to...

His Der Rathskeller jingle dominated Rockford radio for decades. Meet Chuck Ingl...

October 28, 2021 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our Newsletter ROCKFORD — Inside a local radio studio in the early 1980s, Chuck Ingle turned on...

The Bubble Hive aims to add to downtown Rockford culture, arts scene with second...

October 27, 2021 @ 6:15 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our Newsletter ROCKFORD — Bad timing spoiled The Bubble Hive’s first attempt at a second location. Timing...

'Sad but proud': Rathskellar Rockford closes 1 year after reopening

October 20, 2021 @ 5:37 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter ROCKFORD — A vintage Rockford restaurant that reopened under new ownership amid the coronavirus pandemic...

New neighborhood bar with live music, arcade games coming to North Second Street...

October 19, 2021 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our newsletter LOVES PARK — A new bar coming to North Second Street aims to be a...

2 restaurants, auto service business coming to East State Street in Rockford

October 13, 2021 @ 6:35 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our Newsletter ROCKFORD — Two new restaurants and a quick-service oil change business are coming to the...

Belvidere wants state to incentivise electric vehicle production to strengthen a...

October 5, 2021 @ 11:03 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current BELVIDERE — City Council members are urging the state to create an incentive package for electric vehicle production...

Loves Park provides redevelopment incentives at former Jacobs Signs property

October 5, 2021 @ 9:05 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current LOVES PARK — The city will offer up to $90,000 in incentives to the company redeveloping the former...

New paint store in former Loves Park Kmart wants to help you 'make it happen'

October 1, 2021 @ 1:42 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current LOVES PARK — A company that aims to help customers breathe new life into their homes with fresh...

Grocery store coming to Forest Hills Road and Riverside Boulevard in Loves Park

September 30, 2021 @ 7:15 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current LOVES PARK — Construction is underway on an Aldi’s grocery store at the southwest corner of Forest Hills...

New wine bar aims to be perfect blend with downtown Rockton

September 30, 2021 @ 7:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current ROCKTON — Connie Kieffer had admired the village’s quaint downtown since she first passed through as a young...

'Superheated demand': Rockford area home sale prices hit another record high

September 29, 2021 @ 9:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current ROCKFORD — Home sale prices in the region climbed to another record high in August as buyers continue...

Craig Stallings to lead Rosecrance Ware Center in Rockford

September 28, 2021 @ 11:56 am

By Kevin Wood Rock River Current ROCKFORD — Rosecrance Regional Vice President of Operations Craig Stallings has been tapped to lead the Rosecrance Ware...

New salon in Machesney Park wants you to 'be your own kind of beautiful'

September 24, 2021 @ 10:45 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current MACHESNEY PARK — It may seem counterintuitive for a salon, but A&M Essentially You Inc. wants its customers to...

15th & Chris wants its sauces and seasonings on store shelves

September 24, 2021 @ 8:30 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current ROCKFORD — First he revived a shuttered ice cream shop into one if the city’s most popular burger...

From sleepless nights to heartfelt thanks, Byron nuclear plant employees describ...

September 18, 2021 @ 7:05 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current BYRON — The culmination of more than a year of uncertainty and anxiety for Byron nuclear plant workers...

Ripe Life Juice Co. in Rockford takes fresh approach to proper nutrition

September 17, 2021 @ 6:00 am

By Chelsea Meyer Rock River Current ROCKFORD — Good health begins with what we fuel and put into our bodies. Jamar Luster, owner and...

New quick service oil change business coming to Loves Park

September 16, 2021 @ 7:05 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current LOVES PARK — A new quick service oil change business that lets customers stay in their car while...

Chipotle hiring for new Loves Park location

September 16, 2021 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current LOVES PARK — Chipotle is hiring as it prepares to open its newest area location later this month....

'Just let me buy a house': Hot Rockford real estate market creates bidding wars ...

September 15, 2021 @ 7:05 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current LOVES PARK — Krista Everling spent about five months watching her home-buying plans unravel as her offers were...

Hard Rock Casino Rockford hiring 250 as it prepares for fall opening act

September 15, 2021 @ 6:05 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current ROCKFORD — Hard Rock Casino Rockford is pushing to hire more than 100 additional employees as it readies...

Rockford Regional Hispanic Chamber of Commerce opens to help businesses thrive

September 14, 2021 @ 3:23 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current ROCKFORD — When Sully Cadengo launched her interpreting business more than two years ago, she quickly became a...

Amazon hiring 800 for new Rockford fulfillment center

September 10, 2021 @ 10:41 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current ROCKFORD — Amazon is hiring 800 people to work in its new fulfillment center and production site on...

New fashion retailer opens in former Kuma's in downtown Rockford

September 10, 2021 @ 8:05 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current ROCKFORD — A new clothing shop that promises to bring “a different edge” to the downtown retail scene...

SwedishAmerican Hospital to change name to reflect UW Health merger

September 9, 2021 @ 12:24 pm

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current ROCKFORD — SwedishAmerican Hospital has changed its name to better reflect the merger it made with UW Health...

New business to open at former Jacobs Signs in Loves Park

September 7, 2021 @ 7:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current LOVES PARK — A new business is set to move into the former Jacobs Signs at the corner...

Wammy's Kitchen owner turned moment of inspiration into one of Rockford's bigges...

September 4, 2021 @ 7:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current ROCKFORD — Sandra Pearson was mopping the floor in the sanctuary of her church when an idea struck...

Rockford nostalgia is abundant in this new Midtown pub

September 2, 2021 @ 6:00 am

By Kevin Haas Rock River Current ROCKFORD — Midtown’s newest pub is ready to get you hooked on its fresh Italian beef and versatile...