This Week In The Stateline

SHOW DATE: Saturday & Sunday, October 16th & 17th, 2021 SEGMENT #1: RKFD Park District/Nicole Cabe Lockwood Park “Fall on The Farm”  This week, Executive Director of Lockwood Park Nicole Cabe discusses the gem of Lockwood Park in our community and how families can enjoy Fall on the Farm thru October for the season. SEGMENT #2: Illinois House of Representative Dave Vella 68th District State Representative Dave Vella discusses his youth growing up in Rockford, and his plan for generating jobs in the 815. He also discusses how the Hard Rock Cafe is helping the area. He also outlines that in the next session Representatives will be working on new constituent redistricting coverage maps and he's picking up Belvidere along w/Loves Park, Machesney Park and Rockford. SEGMENT #3: Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara This week Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara discusses the new Rockford Casino group and how it will benefit Rockford, about the decrease in monthly crime stats and what City Council will be discussing this upcoming Monday night. In addition, he tells us why he chose the trick or treat times in Rockford.

Saturday & Sunday, October 2nd & 3rd, 2021 SEGMENT #1: NIK's Wish Fundraising Event October 9th  - This local fundraising event is being held at Rivets Stadium October 9th. Organizers outline how the organization was created, why it was created and how it grants final wishes for those between 18-24 SEGMENT #2: Karen Carlson, Executive Director of GiGi's Playhouse Rockford (REPLAY) SEGMENT #3: Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara - This week Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara discusses Crime in Rockford, The proposed Barbara Coleman Building Development, Property taxes, being elected to serve on the IML Board in the State of Illinois and his thoughts on working with Mid-West Family Broadcasting at the Northern Illinois Food Bank this past week.

Saturday & Sunday, September 25th & September 26th, 2021 SEGMENT #1: Mike Winters Harlem High School Coach Local Harlem High School Basketball Coach Mike Winters has written a book which applies lessons from the Hardwood to Life and is on the Bestseller list with the likes of Steve Kerr and more. He shares his insight to helping local teams, schools and individuals on how to success and how to have the right mindset. SEGMENT #2: Todd Reuber Branch Manager of Northern Illinois Food Bank  - September is Hunger Awareness Month and the Northern Illinois Food Bank is in need of volunteers, food, and awareness. We outline the needs and how individuals in food need can receive supplies. Todd also outlines local teams of volunteers like Hononegah High School and more. SEGMENT #3: Karen Carlson, Executive Director of GiGi's Playhouse Rockford - This week Karen Carlson outlines the all new fundraiser “Down In The 8-1-5” Sunday October 3rd from 1-5pm at the Rockford City Market Venue. She outlines the food trucks, the games, and the events. She also breaks down why the funds are needed and how they will be applied in Rockford at GiGi's Playhouse. Runtime: 6:45 Minutes

SHOW DATE: Saturday & Sunday,  May 1st and 2nd, 2021 Karen Carlson of GiGi’s PLayhouse Rockford  Karen Carlson from GiGi’s Playhouse Rockford discusses the virtual Acceptance Challenge coming up on June 5th from Harlem High School. The money raised thru this virtual run, walk, event will be used to keep the doors open for Gigi’s Playhouse in Rockford, Heather Hulmes of Cops, Cars & K9 Classic Car Show & Parade  Co-Chair Heather Hulmes discussed the upcoming May 8th Car Show Parade from Roscoe and their upcoming car show July 24th for the Winnebago County Sheriff's K-9 Fund. Details of the event(s) were discussed and why these events are important for the community. Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara This week, Tom discusses Covid-19 vaccines and how they are working, about his new learning and tutoring program this summer for school kids to get back on track while having fun, and how the search for a new Rockford Police Chief and Fire Department Chief is going.

SHOW DATE: Saturday & Sunday, April 17th & 18th, 2021 Lori Davie Executive Director Easter Seals This week, Lori breaks down Autism Awareness Month and how Easter Seals of Rockford can help parents diagnose and care for individuals with Autism...She also outlines how others in the area can support the Easter Seals by reaching out with donations and such to help the entire community. Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara  This week, Tom discusses COVID vaccine and rates concerning the J&J Vacinee.. Covers the recent shootings involving Rockford Police..How the search for Chief Dan O’ Shay and Fire Chiefs selection is going. He also discusses Child Abuse and Sexual Abuse Month, why the Family Peace Center is helping, Rent payments for families from a recent grant, and more  

SHOW DATE: Saturday & Sunday, April 10th & 11th, 2021 Deb Walter (LawnCare by Walter) Covers Autism Awareness Month This week, Deb Walter tells her story of her son Grant who has Autism and parents in the Stateline can reach out for support, and assistance. She also outlines how others in the area can support the Easter Seals by reaching out with donations and such to help the entire community. Mike Peck Operations Manager of Rockford ICEHOGS  Mike Peck outlines the sale of the Rockford ICEHOGS to the Chicago Blackhawks, how the team and front office feels about the moves, and how the fan experience will change. In addition, he outlines the timeline for changes and how much the ICEHOGS appreciate being in Rockford and thank the fans. Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara This week, Tom discusses Rockford Police Chief Dan O’ Shay leaving Rockford at the end of April and how the selection committee will pick our next Police and Fire Chiefs. He also discusses #VAXUP815 to get vaccines out, The sale of the Rockford ICEHOGS and the 13 million dollar investments into the BMO, being elected for another term, about the Family Peace Center helping to fight crime, fight child abuse and assist families in need.

SHOW DATE: Saturday & Sunday,  April 3rd & 4th, 2021    Belvidere Mayor Mike Chamberlain  This week, Mayor Mike Chamberlain outlines the city’s COVID-19 response and how vaccinations are being conducted and measured in Belvidere. He outlines the return of students to the classrooms, how the city successfully handed out business grants to local companies last month, and what the City Administration/Council is currently working on. He concludes with an update in the changes at the Belvidere Chrysler plant and challenges ahead for the automaker in Belvidere. Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara  This week, Tom discusses Rockford Police Chief Dan O’ Shay leaving Rockford at the end of the year, and how the selection committee will pick our next Police and Fire Chiefs. He also discusses the groundbreaking for the World’s Largest Telescope coming to Rockford and the effort by Ingersol to get it done, The new Fiber Optic approval by City Council, Amazon leasing the former Bergner’s Distribution plant on North Main, Cobid -19 numbers and a reminder to all to stay vigilant against the virus.

SHOW DATE: Saturday & Sunday, March 6th & 7th, 2021 Danny McDade Irish Marching Society  This week, Danny McDade outlines the new St. Patrick’s Day Parade idea for March 13th to combat Covid-19 and to follow CDC Health guidelines. He also discusses the reason for a newly planned “HalfWay To St. Patrick’s Day” Event over Labor Day Weekend. He also outlines why it is important to pay tribute to heritage, have the PaddyFest and keep the club vibrant in 2021 and beyond. He even plays guitar to add joy to the month. Rockford Habitat For Humanity Executive Director Keri Asevedo  Executive Director Keri Asevedo outlines the Rockford Chapter of Habitat for Humanity and how the Pandemic played havoc on the build schedule in 2020. In addition, she outlines the schedule of builds in 2021 and how the agency really took social injustice to a new level with education, company wide changes and policies and sharing video content. She discusses the Re-Store location, thanks the community for the continued support and asks for volunteers to sign up at Rockford Habitat.org Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara This week, Tom discusses the WNIT coming to Rockford in a few days, the announcement of a new six story riverfront building along the Rock River, about Rockford being named Best City for New Homebuyers, and how the vaccine rollout continues. He also addresses pothole repairs going into Spring and teases about a new fiber optic development he will announce next week.

SHOW DATE: Saturday & Sunday, February 20th & 21st, 2021 Heidi Onahbayknee of The Rock River Valley Blood Center RRVBC Heidi discusses how the recent Polar Vortex has played havoc with the blood supply in the area as well as the Stateline area. She outlines the need, the requirements to donate and also reveals that Rockford as well as all blood centers in America were asked to donate blood to Texas due to the ice and bad weather there. John Groh RACVB Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau John discusses the recent announcement the RACVB Diversity Initiatives announced in the press this week in honor of Black History Month, and how the agency will better serve all of its residents. John also outlines the steps the RACVB will be taking once the Casino is actually here, and how the agency is planning ahead in 2021. He recaps the Stroll on State Experience with a tese of new community events and plans to be determined in the months ahead. Ann Mairer Soderstrum of Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois Ann Marie discusses the sales of Girl Scout cookies this year going on now thru mid March and what the funds go towards for the Girl Scouts. Show outlines the types of cookies, how to purchase them, and how it helps throughout the year.

SHOW DATE: Saturday & Sunday,  February 13th & 14h, 2021  Amy Newel of The ARC of Ogle Winnebago and Boone Counties Amy discusses the upcoming Chocoholic Frolic in a COVID World and about the delivery of the chocolate Feb 25th for The ARC. She discusses the silent auction, 50/50 auction and how the funds from Choc-Froc go help individuals with developmental disabilities at The ARC. Jodi Miller Mayor of Freeport  Jodi discusses Freeport’s status as the city moves from 2020, Covid, and how the city helped local restaurants and businesses. She also outlined what the city did to help with property taxes, liquor license fees and infrastructure planning. She highlights her new planning committee to bring events to downtown Freeport as well as plans happening to host this year’s Stephenson County Fair. Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara This week Mayor McNamara discusses how the city is handling the cold winter and homeless population, how it feels to have City Council back in City hall and face to face, the latest ruling on the Hard Rock Casino and why Rockfordians need to champion the Byron Nuclear Plant efforts to stay open.

SHOW DATE: Saturday & Sunday, January 30th & 31th, 2021 Zack Saddlery of Lifescape Services of Illinois Zack discusses Meals on Wheels Program for Seniors in 8 counties thru Northern Illinois, about the recent food distribution program thru Heartland Church from a private donation, and discusses how Lifescape has faired thru the pandemic, how important it is for seniors and how local community members can assist. Belvidere Mayor Chamberlain discusses Belvidere 2021 Mayor Mike Chamberlain discusses the Forward Boone initiative and how the city is coming together top assist in vaccinations. How the Chrysler Plant and MAGNA Auto Suppliers are working with Swedish American Belvidere to distribute vaccinations among workers and in the community. He also discusses the status of the School and Health Departments in Belvidere and a new Valentines Day Card Community Project for Seniors in Belvidere. Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara  This week Mayor McNamara discusses the status of Hard Rock Casino talks downstate in Illinois, about COVID-19 vaccinations and why the positivity rate is lowering, and he thanks the city plowing departments for tremendous snow removal work in the city this season. In addition, talks about the Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition in Sinnissippi Park.  

SHOW DATE: Saturday & Sunday,  January 23rd & 24th, 2021  Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara  This week, Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara discusses the Inauguration, COVID update on vaccines, new grants for the city, about the upcoming vote to extend the Road Referendum  February 23rd for voters and what it means. He also mentions the RockFOODian campaign with GoRockford.COM. Laura Gibbs Green Rockford Park District Laura discusses this years’ Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition and why the dates changed, what to expect and who is participating. She also explains why the Light Displays at Nicholas Conservatory and other parks are still on and details on the all new Rocky The Snowman Building Competition.

SHOW DATE: Saturday & Sunday, January 16th and 17th, 2021 SEGMENT #1: Laura Gibbs Green Rockford Park District Laura discusses this years’ Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition and why the dates changed, what to expect and who is participating. She also explains why the Light Displays at Nicholas Conservatory and other parks are still on and details on the all new Rocky The Snowman Building Competition in Rockford. SEGMENT #2: Jeff Hultman Co-Chair of The Greater Rockford Growth Project Jeff discusses the newly developed group The Greater Rockford Growth Group and its mission for the city of developing growth. The Rockford Development Group and Chamber of Commerce have joined together to form this initiative. Jeff discusses the people behind the idea, their goals for the area and how businesses have a voice through this group. SEGMENT #3: Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara This week, Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara discusses disbanding the protestors outside City Hall and why he did it, the newly created 3% Cannabis Sales Tax and where the funds will be going thanks to meeting with the community, and the approach we will be taking as Covid-19 Mitigations loosen from level 3 to level 2 in the city and area.

SEGMENT #1: Karen Carlson Executive Director of GiGi's Playhouse Rockford  Karen discusses the 10 year anniversary of GiGi's Playhouse opening in Rockford this weekend with a history of how it came about, how it is fully funded by volunteers in the Stateline, and how individuals with Down Syndrome can receive services for life without paying through GiGi's Playhouse Rockford.. gigisplayhouse.org/Rockford for more. SEGMENT #2: Jean Lopez of KNIB Keep Northern illinois Beautiful Xmas Tree Recycling  Jean discusses the locations, how to recycle your Christmas tree and what are the benefits for the community to recycle VS placing trees into the garbage, filling up the landfill unnecessarily. SEGMENT #3: Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara  This week, Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara discusses COVID-19 numbers, easing of restrictions from the State, New ordinances in 2021, how he plans on addressing the surge in violent crime in Rockford in 202, and the need for additional family advisors at The Family Peace Center in Rockford.

Amy Newel/The Arc of Ogle Winnebago & Boone Counties Choc Froc ‘21 Amy discusses how COVID has affected individuals with mental and physical disabilities and why the 2021 Chocoholic Frolic Fundraiser coming in February is so critical to the organization continuing. In addition, she discusses how to grab a “crave case of chocolate” for the fundraiser.  Andrea from Noah's Ark Animal Sanctuary in Rockford Andrera discusses why it is not a great idea to give a pet as a Christmas gift in the area unless you are ready to make the commitment, and how the adoption process has changed in a COVID-19 world. In addition, she discusses how to donate cash and or products to keep the shelter moving forward for Rockford. Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara This week, Tom discusses City Council approving a balanced budget for 2021 this week, Service Line Warranties that are legit for Rockford, Covid-19 stats for the week, and how the Family Peace Center has been a blessing for the area surpassing over 135 client assistance needs since opening just a few months ago.

Kevin Polky of KP Counseling of Rockford about December Depression Psychologist Kevin Polky discusses handling depression during a holiday season with COVID-19 hanging over us. He outlines signs, gives a few steps on how to deal and accept the changes and how to look forward to 2021 and building on the positives. He also provides his contact information for those who are seeking or need additional help. Boy Scouts of N. Illinois Organizer Roman Salomon discusses Xmas Trees Roman discusses where the Boy Scouts of Northern Illinois have moved Christmas Trees Stands to and where the proceeds go to in the non-for-profit. Also Roman states that the trees are from local tree farms in Ogle County and Southern Wisconsin. He also outlines how to sign up K-18 for Boy Scouts in the area. Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara This week, Tom discusses the recent approval of the 5 year improvement plan, his Christmas Card design winner, and COVID-19 vaccine distribution in Rockford and the 3 week roll out starting as early as next week.  

SHOW DATE: Saturday &Sunday, October 31- November 1st, 2020 SEGMENT #1: Downtown Beloit Association Exe Dir Shauna El Amin Shauna outlines details on the decision to hold Grand Lighted Holiday Parade in 2020 thru downtown Beloit and outlines the reverse concept of the parade, outlines the newly designed Winter Farmers Market in Beloit, and Holidazzle guideline for shopping in Beloit this holiday season. Runtime: 8 Minutes SEGMENT #2: Lois Shores Vets 5k Run Director/Veteran's Drop In Center Lois outlines the upcoming Veteran's 5K Run and Walk November 5th and how to get involved and what the proceeds will do at Rockford's Vets Drop In Center SEGMENT #3: Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara This week, Tom discusses Halloween pushback for hosting Trick or Treat Hours in Rockford, Covid 19 numbers frustration, Casino IGB delay and how Rockford deserves better from the State. He also outlined his plans to have City Council approve hold property taxes, lowering liquor city fees for local restaurants this Monday night, and where he plans to target new found Cannabis funds from 2020 just to mention a few topics.

SHOW DATE: Sunday, October 17- 18th, 2020   SEGMENT #1: Staff Sergeant Yahya U.S. Marines Rockford Recruiting Staff Sergeant Yahya outlines what benefits you get from joining the Marines, If COVID has interrupted recruiting new men and women, the requirements to join, and why he became a Marine and what are the benefits.. Runtime: 4 Minutes SEGMENT #2: John Groh Director of RACVB/Stroll on State 2020 This week, Rockford announced Stroll on State in happening for the community November 28th. Due to COVID-19, John outlines what is new, what are the changes, and why the Stateline needs this event now more than ever for local businesses and for peace of mind in 2020.   SEGMENT #3: Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara This week, Tom discusses COVID Positivity rates, Virtual Family Peace Center Open House Virtual Sessions, The Newly Announced Co-Responder Pilot Program featuring Rockford Police and Rosecrance Social Workers, Stroll on State, and the recent shooting of a 3 year old on Court Street in Rockford.

SHOW DATE: Sunday, September 13th, 2020     Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara  This week, Tom McNamar discusses reading for the Literacy Council, a $500,000 grant from state for Winnebago County to help battle violence to disabled women, the Family Peace Center, COVID-19 numbers are getting worse, and how the 2020 Census is working going into the final month of data collection. The Literacy Council (Replay) September is Literacy Reading Month! Family Peace Center Golf Outing 2020  Friday September 25th at Mauh Nah Tee See country Club. How to sign up, where the proceeds go, and more covered in the segment featuring Tom Kress from Associated Bank and Sierra Kellen of Family Peace Center.  

SHOW DATE: Sunday, September 6th, 2020 SEGMENT #1: Shannon Bell “Ease the Mind Motorcycle Ride” for Vets September 12th. Shannon discusses how to ride along in this event for local Vets and how to help make a difference for Vets battling COVID and thoughts of suicide. $20 to ride, $15 per passenger. Starts at Kegels and goes into Wisconsin. SEGMENT #2: Bill Grennell & Debbie Lindley/Directors at The Literacy Council Rockford Bill and Debbie share details on the planned “Readers Are Leaders” Reading Event since September is Literacy Month. Officials, Mayors, and Personalities all are sharing a reading session via ZOOM and social media to help educate Rockfordians. In addition to the event, ways to volunteer and ways to donate through TEXTING “Literacy” to 2-6-9-8-9 were also discussed. SEGMENT #3: Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara The first comments form Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara on the Masonic Cathedral / Metro Christian Center fire in downtown Rockford and why the demolition response was so quick. We also discuss his thoughts and response to Javon Bae and Mercy Health on the “reduction” of services at the North Rockton Avenue Health Campus. We discuss the newly developed Minor Rehab Housing Lottery Program, the 30 day anniversary of The Family Peace Center opening, Census 2020 responses and COVID-19 responsibilities for each of us during this Labor Day Weekend.

SEGMENT #1: Michael Peyton, Communications/Family Counseling Services of Rockford  Michael discusses the services provided by Family Counseling Services of Rockford, how to reach them if you need help in any manner, and how to support them with their Inaugural Meat Raffle coming up Wednesday September 2nd 2020. SEGMENT #2: GiGi's PLayhouse Executive Director Karen Carlson Karen provides an update on 2020 No Bull Golf Outing at Rockford Country Club for Gigi's Playhouse and where the money is going for. In addition, to the numerous events and fun planned at this year's event. Runtime: 5 Minutes   SEGMENT #3: Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara This week, Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara discusses gun violence in our community and how we as citizens can help curb the problem, latest on the COVID-19 Mask mandate for eating in restaurants, Winnebago County Health Department stating that even if you are asymptomatic you should still be tested, the latest job fair town hall, where our Casino approval is at down state (He states 90-120 days away before a ruling) and the four areas the city is planning on working on in the new few days concerning racial unrest.

SEGMENT #1: Jean Lopez (Events and Communication Coordinator) KNIB Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful is hosting an upcoming Golf Playday for funds Friday September 25th at Elliot Golf Course. Registration info and recycling hours and needs were also discussed.   SEGMENT #2: Shauna El-Amin Executive Director of Downtown Beloit Association Shauna discusses the upcoming Downtown Beloit Book Drive thru the end of the month where residents can drop off books for all ages for the Little Free Libraries in Downtown Beloit for the school year ahead. She also outlines other upcoming events in Beloit, Wisconsin coming soon.   SEGMENT #3: Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara This week, Tom discusses the fluctuating Covid-19 numbers and encourages Rockfordians to hold the line...He outline the planned use of a $2 million dollar Infrastructure Grant..His feelings and thoughts on MercyHealth diminishing services at their location on Rockton Avenue, and why Aldean Dam is getting a $4 million dollar renovation.

Segment #1: Gigi's Playhouse NO BULL Golf Outing  Karen shares details about their NO BULL GOLF OUTING coming up September 14th. She outlines safety measures being taken, the event, and how the funs generated from this event support the programs at the playhouse for individuals with Down Syndrome in the Stateline... Segment #2: United Way REUnited Event Aug 15th  Event is planned for numerous restaurants on Saturday Aug 15th for 815 Day Segment #3: Cars for CASA Boone County Car Show Event  Details on an amazing car show on Aug 23rd in Belvidere to raise money for Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children.

Segment #1: United Way REUnited Event Event is planned for numerous restaurants on Saturday Aug 15th for 815 Day Segment #2: Family Peace Center  Director Sierra Kellen discusses the new center, the location, how to contact them and how an individual of domestic abuse can get help at the new center across from the Coronado Theatre... It is the only one of it's kind in Illinois, and many trades donated time to build it. Segment #3: Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara Tom discusses protesters at his home, Covid-19 update going into August, Schools opening, Census update, and an update on Casino approvals.

Segment #1: Boone County Fire District #2  Adam discusses the Fire Auxiliary's decision to go forward with their annual Donut Days even though the Boone County Fair has been cancelled. They worked with the Boone County Health Department and the Boone County Fair Board to get approval for Saturday and Sunday August 8th and 9th Donut distribution at the FairGrounds.. Adam lays out the menu, how to get donuts and how the fund collected is utilized by the Auxiliary for use. Segment #2: Family Peace Center  Director Sierra Kellen discusses the new center, the location, how to contact them and how an individual of domestic abuse can get help at the new center across from the Coronado Theatre... It is the only one of it's kind in Illinois, and many trades donated time to build it. Segment #3: Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara This week Tom discusses Covid-19 and how far we have come, his Economic Virtual Town Hall, bending the Governors ear to get in on the 3 billion dollar road improvement funds, and about the Mobile Covid Testing Centers now being added to the mix in the city attack on Covid-19.

Segment #1: Karen Carlson from GiGi's Playhouse Rockford  Karen shares details about their NO BULL GOLF OUTING coming up September 14th. She outlines safety measures being taken, the event, and how the funs generated from this event support the programs at the playhouse for individuals with Down Syndrome in the Stateline... Segment #2: Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara This week, Tom outlines The COVIDE 19 plan just released from the Governour, about staying open and what factors could cause a reverse in moving forward. He discusses Rockford Public Schools going back in a COVID World. He also outlines his new Economic Virtual Town Hall session coming up on Facebook Tuesday July 21st. He reviews the Rockford Fire/EMT/Responder report card for the first 6 months, and wraps up with a push for the Census and why it is important to fill it out.

Segment 1: Ann Marie from Discovery Center  Ann discusses camps, summer activities that are opening in a Covid 19 world at Discovery Center Museum in Rockford.. Segment 2: Laura Gibbs Green/Communications for Rockford Park District Laura is back to discuss further Park District facilities opening up and she outlines the stance the Rockford Park District is taking on racism and injustice. In addition she discusses June 19th Blackout of Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens as a symbolic gesture showing Park District condemns racism. Segment 3: Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara  Tom discusses recent Governor Pritzgers appearance in Rockford, Phase 4 coming for restaurants, Covid Testing now open to anyone not just the sick, and his discussions his outline and steps moving forward with Rockford Police, Black Lives Matter groups, and all other minority groups in Rockford to seek action against racism and injustice in Rockford.

Segment #1: Janesville City Manager Mark Freitag  We discuss the cities response to Covid-19, what the city is doing to help local businesses, and the construction progress on I-90 at 14 and 26 Milton in his area. Segment #2: Freeport Mayor Jodie Miller  Jodi and I discuss the efforts in battling Covid-19 and the protests that rocked their city and how she plans on settling the unrest in Freeport moving forward. Segment #3: Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara Tom and I discuss his view on the protests in downtown Rockford, his communication with organizations, police and leaders to address needs of the community. Also states why he did not instate a curfew like other cities like Freeport had to. We address Covid -19 and Phase 3 progress in the city. Finally, he addresses change moving forward in Rockford to conclude.

Segment #1: Cathy McDermott Rock River Development Partnership. Cathy McDermott is the Exec Director of Rkfd City Market & North End City Market &  discusses the changes, why the events are still happening and what to expect at the Rockford City Market in 2020. Segment #2: Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara Tom discusses Phase 3 and what is opening, how the operations will be, and what to expect moving forward in Rockford and Winnebago County. In addition, he discusses the new Alderwoman for the 12th Ward, and hints of a major announcement coming soon for Rockford that will put RKFD in a national picture coming soon... Segment #3: Belvidere Mayor Mike Chamberlain Mike discusses Belvidere Chrysler Plant operations, openings and affect COVID-19 had on his city and Boone County. Also discusses Forward Boone, a new initiative for businesses and residents to stay on top of the changing economic posture in his city.

Segment #1: Laura Gibbs Green Communication Manager for the Rockford Park District discusses loses and the direction of the Park District moving forward Segment #2: Loves Park Mayor Greg Jury and Loves Park Treasurer John Danielson discuss how COVID 19 has hit their city, and how loss of Sales Tax from down spending will have on the City. Also they discuss the "Field of Honor" that will be open for Memorial Day remembrances... Segment #3: Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara discusses openings just announced from Illinois Governour Pritzker and his message for Memorial Day weekend to the Stateline

Segment #1: Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara Tom starts us off with a COVID-19 recap, urge for food donations to local pantries, and describing the task forces he has put together and how info will be digested in order to get things started in Phase 3 as we reopening Rockford and area. Segment #2: John Groh Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau John discusses being on one of the mayor's Panels, what they are studying for reopening, the economic impact of events and hotels, restaurants and such in the area from COVID-19.  John Groh also states it may be too early for City Market, and is still up in the air concerning Stroll on State events. Segment #3: Teresa Shryver of Northern Illinois Food Bank in Rockford Teresa discusses the need for food as requested by Mayor Tom McNamara, states they have served 7 million meals in 3 months (Way above average) and the ways to donate food. In addition, she outlines the massive needs and stress being placed on the food system due to COVID -19.

Winnebago County Chairman Frank Hainey discusses County game plan to battle COVID-19, Alzheimer's Association Tips for Home Caregivers w/COVID-19, and Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara Easter Message and latest Rockford COVID-19 updates