WZOK-FM (Rockford, IL)

1 week ago | 97zokonline.com | Emily Sotakoun

You know that moment you step outside and suddenly the smell of grilled hotdogs hits you? That's an obvious sign it's getting nicer outside, right? The weather gets nicer, people are exercising outside more, sitting on their porches every day and night, and tons of local events are happening every single weekend—those are all great signs that summer is near. The #1 sign we can tell summer is actually upon us? You can probably guess. ORANGE CONES EVERYWHERE.

1 week ago | 97zokonline.com | Emily Sotakoun

No, this isn't going to be another one of those "watch out for crime and high property taxes" kind of blog. We want to give you an experience in Rockford before you officially decide to move here. Being a Rockfordian my entire life, you learn a thing or two about this city; the entertainment hotspots, which streets to avoid because of the potholes, the best bike paths, hiking spots, and the famous icons who are from here.

1 week ago | 97zokonline.com | Steve Shannon

Struggling with stress, burnout, or just getting through the day? Winnebago County now has a free online resource to help residents take better care of their mental health before things hit a breaking point. If you've ever stared blankly at a wall for 10 minutes, wondering how you're going to get through the rest of your day and hold it all together, you are not alone. The good news? Winnebago County just launched something that might actually help.

1 week ago | 97zokonline.com | Emily Sotakoun

Let's be real—growing up in Illinois had its own set of experiences. Things other kids can't relate to. Am I wrong? Tell me if you remember any of these things from your childhood, or you still do now!Took field trips to the Museum of Science and IndustryA cold, crispy morning loading everyone on the school bus to go to Chicago was truly an experience only Illinois kids remember.

1 week ago | 97zokonline.com | Emily Sotakoun

Put away the hiking boots and bug spray—you won't need it where we're going. Rockford is home to some seriously cool art trails that you have to see this summer. These are the kind of trails that take you past colorful murals, beautiful art installations, through local coffee shops, and iconic Rockford landmarks. If your kids constantly beg to go somewhere instead of staying cooped up in the house, let them get their energy out at these five creative trails around town.