Disaster Cleanup – Free Learning Resource!
If you're dealing with fire, water, or mold damage, you don\’t have to figure it out alone! We\’ve built a SKOOL Community filled with expert guidance based on IICRC standards to help you handle property damage the right way.
📚 Inside the SKOOL Community / Classroom, You'll Learn:
- How to clean up water damage & prevent mold
- Steps for fire & smoke damage restoration
- When to call a pro & how to navigate insurance claims
💡 Don’t make costly mistakes—get the knowledge you need!
👉 Visit the Disaster Response SKOOL Community now:

Water Damage Restoration in Rockford, IL
Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.
Whether from broken pipes or heavy thunderstorms, it doesn't take a professor from Rasmussen University Rockford in Rockford to know that water damage can be incredibly harmful to your home. Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in Rockford, IL is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.
Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in Rockford. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.


Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:

Navigating the insurance claim process
We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.

Scheduling for a quick and quality completion
We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.
You might also be thinking about:

Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.

Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.

Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.

Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.

Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.



Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.

Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.

Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.

Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.

Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.

At Disaster Response, It's All About You
Like LakePeterson House in Rockford, Disaster Response has been a pillar of the community for years. As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in Rockford.
Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.
We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.
The Disaster Response Difference

Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes
In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.

Insurance Advocacy
Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.

Satisfaction Guaranteed
We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.



Tom Allen
Scene Cleaners
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From water and fire damage to mold remediation, ( Scene Cleaners ) doesn't just follow industry norms-they set new ones. Our rigorous vetting process ensures that ( Scene Cleaners ) exceeds expectations, delivering cutting-edge solutions for your emergency needs.
When you choose Disaster 911 and ( Scene Cleaners ), you're opting for a dynamic partnership that prioritizes effective, next-level recovery. Don't settle for the ordinary-when disaster strikes, choose the best in emergency response.
1020 W Fullerton Ave Unit G, Addison, IL 60101


Your Guide to Water Damage Restoration in Rockford, IL
Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.
As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Mold and bacteria can grow in damp areas after water incidents, causing allergies, respiratory problems, and even visits to Bickford of Rockford in Rockford for examination. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.
What Makes Our Water Damage Company in Rockford, IL, Different from Others?
One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in Rockford?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.
But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:

Cost
Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.

Technicians
Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to

Time
Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. One moment, you're enjoying family time at Aldeen Park in Rockford. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.

Tools
Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.

Process
For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.

Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network
We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.
What Does Disaster Response Fix?
As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in Rockford, IL, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.
- Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
- Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
- Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
- Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value. Instead of throwing it away or donating it to Spafford Square in Rockford, we can repair and restore it.

Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.
What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?
We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the Rockford restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:

Infrared Cameras
Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.

Moisture Meters
We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.

Air Movers
This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.

Ozone Generators
These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.

Xtreme Xtractor
This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.
Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About
Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in Rockford, IL, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:

Clean Water Damage

This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.

Gray Water Damage

Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.

Black Water Damage

The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.
If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:

- Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
- Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
- Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.
Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in Rockford, IL
Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.
We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.
After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.
Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.
- Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
- Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
- Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
- Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.

The Water Damage Company in Rockford, IL, You Can Trust
When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. You go to a Abreo in Rockford. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.
As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.
Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a Rockford rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.
Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!
Latest News in Rockford, IL
Was THIS the first Fish Fry in Illinois history?
Johnny Vhttps://q985online.com/best-fish-fry-illinois-2024/
March is one of my favorite months of the year, because it's when temperatures (typically) start to warm up as Spring arrives, Cubs spring training games are on, and Fridays are for Fish Fry's during Lent.According to an article from Illinois Farm Bureau Partners, the Friday night ritual of attending a fish fry may have first started in Illinois...
March is one of my favorite months of the year, because it's when temperatures (typically) start to warm up as Spring arrives, Cubs spring training games are on, and Fridays are for Fish Fry's during Lent.
According to an article from Illinois Farm Bureau Partners, the Friday night ritual of attending a fish fry may have first started in Illinois with the Woodworth Fish Fry.
READ MORE: List of 10 Largest Landowners in Illinois is Shocking
This fish fry goes all the way back to the 1930s when people would travel from miles around to the village of Woodworth in western Illinois for Elmer Brutlag's fried cod fish sandwiches.
The "Original Woodworth" Fish Fry continues in 2025 and is coming up Friday, March 14 at St. Paul's Lutheran School of Woodworth, about 100 miles south of Chicago.
I'm partial to the St. Bernadette Catholic Church Fish Fry in Rockford. Not because their fish and sides are great, but I also won their half pot last year so you know I'll be heading back again.
And the St. Edward Catholic Church Fish Fry is always tops on my list for their dessert selection.
According to your responses on Facebook, these were 10 of the Best Friday fish fry spots to visit during Lent:
Rockford's Best Fish Fry During Lent
Here are the fish fry locations that social media suggest we try.
Gallery Credit: Johnny Vincent
LOOK: Baby names that are illegal around the world
Stacker scoured hundreds of baby name databases and news releases to curate a list of baby names that are illegal somewhere in the world, along with explanations for why they’re banned.
Gallery Credit: Annalise Mantz
LOOK: The top holiday toys from the year you were born
With the holiday spirit in the air, it’s the perfect time to dive into the history of iconic holiday gifts. Using national toy archives and data curated by The Strong from 1920 to today, Stacker searched for products that caught hold of the public zeitgeist through novelty, innovation, kitsch, quirk, or simply great timing, and then rocketed to success.
Gallery Credit: Jacob Osborn & Peter Richman
When will Raising Cane’s in Rockford open?
Kevin Haashttps://www.rockrivercurrent.com/2025/03/when-will-raising-canes-in-rockford-open/
By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile appROCKFORD — Raising Cane’s has set an official date for its opening in Rockford.The resta...
By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app
ROCKFORD — Raising Cane’s has set an official date for its opening in Rockford.
The restaurant plans to open Tuesday, April 15.
The chicken finger chain is expected to receive its temporary occupancy permit this week, according to Nelson Sjostrom, the city’s construction and development services manager. That’s a key step that allows the company to begin using the building while the final landscaping is complete.
“Raising Cane’s new Rockford restaurant is slated to open Tuesday, April 15, offering 20 lucky customers free Canes for a year, community givebacks, and more,” a Raising Cane’s representative told the Rock River Current via email. “As part of Raising Cane’s commitment to the communities it serves, the new restaurant will engage with local schools, sports teams, and non-profit organizations through fundraising opportunities and sponsorships.”
Construction of the restaurant at 6445 E. State St. has been ahead of schedule. Raising Cane’s initially targeted an October 2025 opening when it went through the city’s zoning process a year ago. It pushed that forward at the start of the year, saying a late spring opening was the new goal.
Construction teams demolished the former Stone Eagle Tavern at the corner of East State Street and Trainer Road last summer to make way for the 3,225-square-foot restaurant and drive-thru. Stone Eagle, a locally-owned restaurant, had remodeled a former Cheddar’s franchise space with its own signature decor, including seven limestone eagles. The restaurant closed after 15 years in business in February 2024 after its lease expired and the owner opted to sell to Raising Cane’s.
The restaurant is expected to employ about 55 people and operate seven days a week. Its hours are slated to be 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 a.m. Friday and Saturday.
The restaurant will have employees with tablets ahead of the menu boards during peak hours in order to increase order efficiency and manage traffic along the busy East State Street corridor. The company previously said its average time for service is two minutes and 28 seconds.
Raising Cane’s was founded in 1996 in Baton Rouge, Louisana, by Todd Graves. It is focused solely on chicken with a menu that includes chicken fingers, fries, coleslaw and Texas toast. There is also a sandwich made with three chicken fingers.
Raising Cane’s had a record year for growth in 2024, opening 118 restaurants across the country. There are now more than 800 Raising Cane’s in the U.S. The nearest one to Rockford is at 2411 Sycamore Road in DeKalb.
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas
The Sandwich Spot brings ‘a fresh option’ to downtown Rockford
Kevin Haashttps://www.rockrivercurrent.com/2025/03/the-sandwich-spot-brings-a-fresh-option-to-downtown-rockford/
ROCKFORD — A new lunch spot offering home-style cooking centered on sandwiches, soups and a salad bar has opened at the corner of State and Wyman streets in downtown.The Sandwich Spot celebrated its ribbon-cutting on Tuesday at 201 W. State St., a space that was the longtime home of Subway and most recently ...
ROCKFORD — A new lunch spot offering home-style cooking centered on sandwiches, soups and a salad bar has opened at the corner of State and Wyman streets in downtown.
The Sandwich Spot celebrated its ribbon-cutting on Tuesday at 201 W. State St., a space that was the longtime home of Subway and most recently TNT Funnel Cakes. The opening marks a return to business for cafe’s owner Linda Derrickson, who previously ran The Spot Cafe and The Sandwich Spot at different locations in downtown but spent the past few years working for other local establishments.
“It’s what we were looking for — a lunch spot where you can get a diverse offering and great home cooking,” said Marge Bevers, who owns the building with her husband, Kyle, and their business partner Don Bissell. “We wanted somebody who would do a whole luncheon menu, and it would be healthy food. We got a bonus because she’s the best soup maker ever.”
Derrickson started The Sandwich Spot in 2008 at its first location on the ground-floor of the William Brown building at 226 S. Main St. in downtown. She then moved the business to the former Millennium Center, 220 S. Madison St., in November 2009 and changed the name to The Spot Cafe. The Spot Cafe operated for seven years before moving to Seventh Street in Midtown for roughly a year.
Derrickson said bringing it back to downtown fills a lunch need for the area.
“There’s no sandwich spot down here, and definitely nobody’s doing a salad bar. So it gives everybody a fresh option,” she said. “They can come in and just get it themselves and don’t have to wait on somebody to make it. They can build their own salad, and nobody’s doing that. I think that’s great for downtown.”
The Sandwich Spot offers grilled paninis such as a melty ham and mozzarella, breakfast sandwiches on bagels, a rotating variety of soups and a salad bar that lets you scoop your choice of fruits, vegetables and dressings. There is also a build-your-own sandwich option.
More business: Demolition on portion of former Rockford Plaza set to move forward for new Starbucks
The restaurant started with its soft opening on Feb. 28, and on Tuesday it celebrated the grand opening in a ceremony organized by alderman-elect Tamir Bell. He was joined by members of the River District Association, Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce, GoRockford and Ald. Jeff Bailey, who Bell will succeed in representing the 13th Ward after winning the Feb. 25 primary.
Bell said he was glad to see another business opening on the city’s west side and in the 13th Ward.
“The menu is affordable and it gives you a quick stop for lunch,” he said. “The Sandwich Spot is a Rockford staple, and I’m so glad to have it on the west side of the river.”
The space may be most familiar to Rockford residents as the longtime home of Subway, which operated for 32 years before closing in May 2022. TNT Funnel Cakes, a popular tent at Rockford City Market, then opened in the space in November 2022. It operated until Aug. 17 as the owners moved to North Carolina.
It was a few months later that Derrickson was contemplating going back into business for herself. That’s when she saw the sign in the building saying the space was available.
“In November I came across the bridge, saw this spot and I was like, there’s your sign,” she said.
It reopened after some minor remodeling, including fresh coats of paint and new hardwood high-top tables.
About | The Sandwich Spot
Where: 201 W. State St., Rockford
Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday
Phone: 815-978-5989
On Facebook: Go HERE
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas
Rockford Schools issue statement after death of 11-year-old Eisenhower student Jalyah Thomspon
John Clarkhttps://www.mystateline.com/news/local-news/rockford-schools-issue-statement-after-death-of-11-year-old-eisenhower-student-jalyah-thomspon/
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Rockford Public Schools have issued a statement in response to the death of an 11-year-old Eisenhower Middle School student, Jalyah Thompson.Family members said she took her own life on Friday.“This should never happen,” wrote Superintendent Ehren Jarrett. “We must come together as a community. Not to cast blame, but to recognize our responsibility to support all of our children. No child should feel this alone. No child should believe there’s no way forward. And yet, someho...
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Rockford Public Schools have issued a statement in response to the death of an 11-year-old Eisenhower Middle School student, Jalyah Thompson.
Family members said she took her own life on Friday.
“This should never happen,” wrote Superintendent Ehren Jarrett. “We must come together as a community. Not to cast blame, but to recognize our responsibility to support all of our children. No child should feel this alone. No child should believe there’s no way forward. And yet, somehow, we failed to reach one of our own. That pain is shared by all.”
According to data released by the school district, suicide is the number two cause of death for children between the ages of 10 and 14, nationwide.
Authorities suggest watching for the following warning signs:
“If you need someone, please reach out. Talk to a teacher, a counselor, a parent, any adult you trust. Remember, you are never alone. If you see a friend in trouble, don’t ignore the signs. Talk to them. Tell someone,” Jarrett wrote.
“While Rockford Public Schools invests nearly $30 million annually in social-emotional support across our schools, we recognize that this is just the beginning. True change requires a collective effort, and we know that with the support of our community partners, we can do even more to ensure every child feels seen, supported, and valued,” he continued. “Every word we speak, every interaction, every act of kindness can change someone’s life. We all share this pain. But we also share the responsibility to act. Together, we can do better. We must do better.”
According to a GoFundMe set up to support Jalyah’s family, the youngster suffered from bullying.
“Heartbroken, we want others to know that with more kindness and less bullying, Jalyah would still be with us today,” her grandmother, Arlain Thompson, wrote.
“Jalyah left us at eleven-and-one-half years old far, far too early to seek and reach her desire to become a nail technician. True to girls her age, Jalyah wore pink, loved Hello Kitty fashion, gave attention to her hair and nails, took many selfies, listened to Billy Eilish and Sza,” she added.
At a press event on Wednesday afternoon, Jarrett said the school is conducting a “thorough investigation” and interviewing students and staff to determine the facts of the case.
The City of Rockford posted a list of resources for children struggling with grief, loss, bullying, isolation, suicidal thoughts, or hopelessness on Monday.
‘Not all people are welcome in our community’: Rockford Alderman speaks out against city welcome sign
Reanne Weilhttps://www.mystateline.com/news/not-all-people-are-welcome-in-our-community-rockford-alderman-speaks-out-against-city-welcome-sign/
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Rockford’s 3rd Ward Alderman Chad Tuneberg received backlash after he expressed frustration with the city’s welcome sign.The sign off of I-90 and East State Street reads: “Rockford – All People Are Welcome.”On February 18, Rockford City Council had a regularly scheduled meeting when Tuneberg said he wasn’t happy with the welcome sign. He said it encourages criminals.“Not all people are welcome in our community, and I think that sign is a slap in the ...
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Rockford’s 3rd Ward Alderman Chad Tuneberg received backlash after he expressed frustration with the city’s welcome sign.
The sign off of I-90 and East State Street reads: “Rockford – All People Are Welcome.”
On February 18, Rockford City Council had a regularly scheduled meeting when Tuneberg said he wasn’t happy with the welcome sign. He said it encourages criminals.
“Not all people are welcome in our community, and I think that sign is a slap in the face and destructive to the well-being of those who have been affected by such,” Alderman Tuneberg said.
The alderman said it was put up in 2018 without the consent of council members.
“The sign was put up about seven years ago without any consultation from the aldermen,” Tuneberg said.
One local organization heard the alderman’s comments and decided to rally in support of the current message on the sign.
Members from the League of Women Voters of Greater Rockford showed up to Monday night’s Planning and Development Committee meeting and shared their opinions.
“Let us stand together and affirm that Rockford is a community that welcomes all people,” one speaker said. “I simply want it to say, ‘Welcome to all,'” another said.
League Chair Sara Dady said the group came together to stand for inclusivity in our community.
“It’s actually a really good thing that we are a diverse community with people of many different interests, and all people should feel welcomed here,” Dady said. “I think people coming out today and paying attention to what’s going on in local government is how we improve our community. It’s how we hold our elected officials accountable to do the things that benefit everyone that lives in this city.”
Alderman Tuneberg made it clear that Rockford is not a sanctuary city, which is a city that limits cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. Tuneberg said he wants residents to know he never said that he wanted the sign to be taken down.
“For individuals that like the sign, it’s going to stay,” Tuneberg said. “It does not mean that all people are welcome, meaning criminals.”
The committee decided to keep the sign as is. They also decided that future signage of any sorts in the city will be voted on by council before it is put up.
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