Elizabeth Ippolito

1 week ago | mystateline.com | Elizabeth Ippolito |Ryan Johnston

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — As a heatwave sweeps parts of the nation, veterinarians are warning pet owners about heat-related emergencies and what they should do to prevent those situations. “Heat stroke is the big risk and actually death,” said the Owner and Veterinarian at Auburn Animal Clinic, Patricia Holms. “It happens fairly easy and fairly quickly, much more quickly than the owners would realize.”The Winnebago County Animal Services Director said to be wary of the pavement in extreme heat.

1 week ago | mystateline.com | Elizabeth Ippolito |Ryan Johnston

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — People from around the Rockford area gathered at Sinnissipi Park to celebrate Juneteenth at Sinnissipi Park on Thursday. Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, the day when the last enslaved African Americans in Confederate states were freed by the Union Army. This year marks the 35th anniversary of Rockford’s Juneteenth Celebration, the oldest known celebration of its kind in Illinois.

1 week ago | mystateline.com | Elizabeth Ippolito |Ryan Johnston

FREEPORT, Ill. (WTVO) — Freeport students will soon have access to mental health support through teletherapy. The school district has partnered with Daybreak, an organization that provides mental health resources and therapy. Students will receive access to support through referrals from teachers. “We really wanted to change the mindset of our families, our community, and really start supporting our mental health organizations and connecting them through the school district,” Randle explained.

1 week ago | mystateline.com | Elizabeth Ippolito |Ryan Johnston

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois has awarded 217 students with over $500,000 in scholarships for all their hard work. One student explained what it meant to be one of the many selected for a scholarship. “It matters to me to know that I have backing here,” said Alex Marshall, a sophomore at the University of New Hampshire. Marshall is majoring in marine biology and received the Fred Peterson Scholarship.

2 weeks ago | mystateline.com | Elizabeth Ippolito |Ryan Johnston

ROCKTON, Ill. (WTVO) — Old Settlers Days gave Rockton residents a night of summer fun, all while raising funds for those with disabilities. “You’re not just buying a ticket to go listen to a great concert or have the opportunity to have some food and go right on the rides, but you’re benefiting the community,” said Lions Club Chair of Old Settlers Days, Carol Wright. This year marks the 25th time the Rockton Lions Club has hosted the event.