ROCKFORD — Throughout October during National Women’s Business Month, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is working to uplift and elevate women-owned businesses throughout the state.
Elora Home Interiors is a home decor, home goods and gift shop on East State Street.
Owner Amie McDonald says women juggle a lot between being a wife and a mom, and as a new business owner, she is finding being an entrepreneur just as rewarding as those two roles.
October is Women-Owned Business Month, supporting Elora Home Interiors
“I think women are incredible. I think we wear a billion hats. Go women, opening businesses, starting things and doing all the things all the time.”
McDonald started her business as a hobby out of her home.
She started thrifting pieces for her own home, which led to her creating a business and moving into a space downtown earlier this year.
She says becoming a small business owner has made her recognize and appreciate local businesses and supporting others by spending money locally.
“I think it’s important to be mindful of supporting the people in the city that you live in because the only reason why we exist is because we have loyal customers that come in because they want to see us stay and they don’t want to see businesses in their city continue to close,” she says.
The store sells everything from custom designed throw pillows to locally made candles and decor for your fireplaces and book shelves.
Elora Home Interiors located on 214 E. State St. is open Thursday through Saturday with extended holiday hours starting November.
Are you searching for a new place to call home? Look no further than Rockford, IL. Nestled along the scenic Rock River, Rockford perfectly balances urban amenities and natural beauty. But is it truly a good place to live? In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the various pros and cons of living in Rockford, exploring its affordability, recreational opportunities, and more. So, whether you’re already looking at apartments for rent in Rockford or you’re still considering the big move, let’s dive in and discover if Rockford is a good fit for you.
Pros of living in Rockford, IL
1. Affordability
One of the most significant advantages of moving to Rockford is its affordability. The cost of living in Rockford is lower compared to many other cities in Illinois and the surrounding region. A house in Rockford costs an average of $135,000, lower than the cost in nearby Chicago ($339,450), well below the national average of $408,031. Groceries are also relatively cheap, costing 6% less than the national average, and lifestyle expenses like haircuts and movie tickets are 10% lower. With lower living costs, residents of Rockford have more disposable income to allocate toward savings, investments, or leisure activities.
2. Natural beauty
Rockford boasts breathtaking natural beauty, with abundant parks, gardens, and riverside trails. Residents can enjoy the serenity of Anderson Japanese Gardens, explore the Rock Cut State Park, or stroll along the Sinnissippi Riverwalk. The city’s commitment to preserving and enhancing its natural surroundings provides plenty of things to do if you’re an outdoor enthusiast.
3. Cultural offerings
Despite being a mid-sized city, Rockford has a thriving cultural scene. It is home to several museums, including the Burpee Museum of Natural History and the Rockford Art Museum, showcasing diverse exhibits and art collections. The Coronado Performing Arts Center hosts concerts, Broadway shows, and other live performances, offering a lively entertainment scene for residents to enjoy.
4. Strong community spirit
Rockford’s residents are known for their strong sense of community spirit. The city has numerous active community organizations, volunteer opportunities, and neighborhood events. From local festivals like the Rockford City Market to charitable initiatives, residents have countless opportunities to connect and make a positive impact.
Cons of living in Rockford, IL
1. Limited shopping options
One of the cons of living in Rockford, IL, is the limited shopping options compared to larger metropolitan areas. While Rockford does have a selection of shopping centers, including CherryVale Mall and various strip malls, the variety and range of retail establishments may not be as extensive as in bigger cities. Residents looking for high-end fashion, luxury brands, or niche specialty stores may need to travel to nearby cities for a more diverse shopping experience.
2. Harsh winters
As with many Midwestern cities, Rockford experiences long and cold winters. Sub-zero temperatures, snowstorms, and icy conditions can be challenging for those unaccustomed to harsh winter climates. However, the city offers various winter activities, such as ice skating and skiing, which can help residents embrace the season.
3. Limited job diversity
While Rockford has a thriving job market, it is worth noting that the economy relies heavily on a few key industries, such as manufacturing and healthcare. This reliance on specific sectors can make the job market less diverse, potentially limiting opportunities for individuals in particular fields. Those seeking employment in niche industries or specialized professions may find fewer options in Rockford.
4. High unemployment rate
Rockford, IL has been grappling with a persistently high unemployment rate, and this stands as a significant drawback for those considering living in the city. Currently, Rockford’s unemployment rate stands at 6.2%, surpassing the national average of 3.7%. The repercussions of a high unemployment rate can ripple throughout the community, impacting local businesses, social services, and overall economic vitality. .
Is Rockford a good place to live? The bottom line
In conclusion, the question of whether Rockford, IL is a good place to live requires a thoughtful consideration of its pros and cons. The city offers affordability, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and proximity to natural attractions, providing opportunities for an enriching and enjoyable lifestyle. However, it is important to be mindful of the harsh winters, limited job opportunities, and the challenges posed by the city’s high unemployment rate. Ultimately, the decision to live in Rockford will depend on personal preferences, priorities, and the ability to navigate the potential challenges associated with the city.
Between the actual Cars movies, and classic movies that feature memorable cars, there are lots of sweet rides we’d like to own ourselves. Here are the top 13 cars we’ve loved from movies throughout the last few decades!
1. KITT
Photo Credit: 20th Television.
The KITT (Knight Industries Two Thousand) was an iconic car in the Knight Rider series. It is a modified 1982 Pontiac Trans Am. Michael Scheffe, a customizer, created KITT. George Barris conceptualized and produced the KITTs for the convertible and super-pursuit missions.
One person said, “This is the correct answer, Michael.”
2. DeLorean, from Back to the Future
Photo Credit: Universal Pictures.
In the film Back to the Future, Michael J. Fox’s Marty McFly traveled through time in the DeLorean, one of the most well-known automobiles in cinematic history—the DeLorean sports coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers for its four independent wheels. The front suspension also uses double wishbones, while the rear is a multi-link design. Overall, the design is very attractive to car enthusiasts.
3. General Lee, from Dukes of Hazard
Photo Credit: Village Roadshow Pictures.
The Dukes of Hazzard’s car, also known as the “General Lee,” is a 1969 Dodge Charger prominently featured in the television series “The Dukes of Hazzard,” aired from 1979 to 1985. The car is easily recognizable due to its bright orange paint job with a Confederate flag emblem on the roof, as well as its signature horn that plays the first 12 notes of the song “Dixie.”
One person said, “Dukes of Hazzard’s car. I remember that car from my childhood.”
4. Herbie, from The Love Bug
Photo Credit: The Walt Disney Company.
The Herbie car is a 1963 Volkswagen Beetle that was featured in several movies, including the 1968 film “The Love Bug” and its sequels. Herbie is a sentient car with a mind of its own and the ability to drive itself. The car is white with red, white, and blue racing stripes and features the number “53” on its doors and hood. In the movies, Herbie often competes in races and outsmarts its human drivers. The car became a beloved character and cultural icon, inspiring a generation of car enthusiasts and spawning merchandise such as toy cars and clothing.
5. Aston Martin DB5, from Goldfinger
Photo Credit: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer.
The Aston Martin car brand has been featured in many James Bond movies, starting with the 1964 film “Goldfinger.” In the movies, Bond drives various models of Aston Martin cars, which are typically equipped with various gadgets and weapons, such as machine guns, missile launchers, and ejector seats. With the car’s features, it’s no wonder why many people find it appealing!
6. Bean’s Car, from Mr. Bean
Photo Credit: Tiger Aspect Productions.
Mr. Bean’s car is a 1976 British Leyland Mini 1000 Mark 4, which is a small and compact car. The car is a major part of the character’s antics in the British sitcom “Mr. Bean,” which aired from 1990 to 1995. The car is light green with a black hood and a yellow registration plate reading “SLW 287R.”
7. Batmobile, from Batman
Photo Credit: Warner Bros.
The Batmobile is a car featured in many Batman movies, TV shows, and comics. The car is made to look like Batman, who is a powerful, mysterious, and dark vigilante. The design of the Batmobile has evolved over the years, but it typically features advanced technology and weaponry, such as grappling hooks, missiles, and even a jet engine.
8. Greased Lightning, from Grease
Photo Credit: Paramount Pictures.
The Grease Lightning car is a 1948 Ford De Luxe Convertible that was featured in the 1978 musical film “Grease.” The car was originally owned by Kenickie, a member of the T-Birds gang, but it eventually becomes the main focus of the gang’s attention when they decide to fix it up and turn it into a racing car. The car is customized with various features, such as a flame paint job, a hood scoop, and a set of whitewall tires.
9. The Mystery Machine, from Scooby-Doo
Photo Credit: Hanna Barbera.
The Mystery Machine is a van that has been featured in various iterations of the animated TV series “Scooby-Doo.” The van is primarily used by the main characters, including Scooby-Doo and his human companions, as they travel to different locations to investigate paranormal mysteries. The van is often depicted as being brightly colored with a psychedelic paint job and featuring the words “Mystery Machine” written on the side in bold letters.
10. Frank Bullitt’s car, from Bullitt
Photo Credit: Warner Bros.
The car featured in the 1968 film “Bullitt” starring Steve McQueen is a 1968 Ford Mustang GT 390 Fastback. The car is known for its high-speed chase scene through the streets of San Francisco, which has become one of the most iconic car chase scenes in cinematic history. The car was driven by McQueen’s character, Frank Bullitt, a tough and determined police detective who is tasked with protecting a key witness in a high-profile case.
One person stated, “My dream car. Some day I’ll have one.”
11. Jim Rockford’s car, from The Rockford Files
Photo Credit: Universal Television.
The car driven by Jim Rockford in the TV series “The Rockford Files” is a gold-colored 1974 Pontiac Firebird Esprit. The car is often seen in the show’s opening credits, as Rockford drives along the California coastline, and is a defining characteristic of the character. The car is not only stylish but also functional, as Rockford uses it in his job as a private investigator to chase down leads and tail suspects.
12. Lightning McQueen, from Cars
Photo Credit: Walt Disney Studios.
Lightning McQueen is a character in the Disney-Pixar animated movie “Cars.” He is a red race car that is inspired by real-life NASCAR racing cars, with a sleek and aerodynamic design. In the first “Cars” film, Lightning is a cocky and ambitious rookie racer who dreams of winning the Piston Cup championship.
13. Sam and Dean Winchester’s Car, from Supernatural
Photo credit: Warner Bros Television.
The Chevy Impala is a black 1967 model that has become a defining characteristic of the TV series “Supernatural.” The car is owned by the main characters, Sam and Dean Winchester, who use it as their primary mode of transportation as they travel across the country fighting supernatural creatures. The Impala features a powerful V8 engine and a distinctive, muscular design with a sleek black finish. The car has also been customized with various features, including a hidden compartment in the trunk to store weapons and a Kansas license plate with the number “KAZ 2Y5.”
View the original Reddit thread here.
Here are 10 of The Most Beautiful Songs People Have Ever Heard
Photo Credit: Shutterstock.
What’s your favorite song of all time? Check out this article with ten of people’s favorite songs of all time.
10 Movies People Said were Awful that are Actually Great
Photo Credit: Shutterstock.
Have you ever been warned away from a terrible movie only to discover that you really love it? Check out this list of movies people said were terrible, but turned out to be fantastic!
10 Actors People Never Believed would Become as Big as they Did
Photo Credit: Shutterstock.
Have you ever been surprised at an actor or actress’s success? Us too: check out this article of celebrities we never thought would get this popular.
10 Celebrities People Automatically Assume will make a Movie Great
Photo Credit: Shutterstock.
Who’s your favorite celebrity? Would you watch anything they’re cast in? Check out this compilation of Redditors’ favorite actors!
10 Best One-Note Actors of All Time
Image Credit: Shutterstock – Tinseltown
Can you think of any actors or actresses who were great, and then weren’t? Here’s our top list of one-hit wonders, all in one place!
Welcome to Rockford, a city teeming with rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you’re living in a house in the city or you’re searching for apartments for rent in Rockford, you’re in for a treat. In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the diverse range of museums that this city has to offer. Perfect for art enthusiasts to history buffs, Rockford’s museums provide a captivating glimpse into the past, present, and future. Let’s get started!
1. Discovery Center Museum
Let’s kick off our journey with the Discovery Center Museum, a haven for curious minds of all ages. This interactive science museum offers hands-on exhibits that encourage visitors to explore the wonders of physics, geology, health, and technology. From launching rockets to excavating dinosaur bones, the Discovery Center Museum ensures an unforgettable experience that combines education with entertainment.
2. Rockford Art Museum
Art aficionados will find solace at the Rockford Art Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of contemporary and historical artworks. Featuring exhibitions that highlight local, national, and international artists, the museum provides a platform for artistic expression, fostering creativity and cultural appreciation within the community.
3. Burpee Museum of Natural History
Delve into the world of paleontology and anthropology at the Burpee Museum of Natural History. Discover the wonders of ancient creatures, including the most complete juvenile Tyrannosaurus rex ever discovered, Jane. Unearth the mysteries of human evolution and marvel at the fossilized remains that reveal our fascinating past. The Burpee Museum offers a captivating blend of science, history, and discovery.
4. Ethnic Heritage Museum
Embrace the cultural diversity of Rockford at the Ethnic Heritage Museum, a unique institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating the heritage of various ethnic groups that have contributed to the city’s rich tapestry. With individual galleries representing different cultures, including African-American, Hispanic, Italian, Lithuanian, Polish, and Irish, the museum fosters understanding and appreciation for the city’s multicultural roots.
5. Midway Village Museum
Step back in time at the Midway Village Museum, an immersive living history museum that transports visitors to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Roam through meticulously recreated period buildings, including a Victorian-era village, and witness the daily lives of the people who shaped Rockford’s history. Engaging exhibits, costumed interpreters, and special events bring the past to life, offering a captivating glimpse into bygone eras.
6. Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum and Gardens
Take a tour of the Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum and Gardens, a beautifully preserved Victorian-era mansion that offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of Rockford’s early settlers. Admire the intricate craftsmanship, period furnishings, and stunning gardens as you uncover the story of the Tinker family. Guided tours provide a deeper understanding of the cottage’s history, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
7. Erlander Home Museum
The Erlander Home Museum invites visitors to explore the heritage of Swedish immigrants who played a pivotal role in shaping Rockford. Step into the past as you wander through the meticulously restored 1871 home of Swedish-American John Erlander. Immerse yourself in Swedish culture, learn about the challenges faced by immigrants, and appreciate the contributions they made to the city.
8. National Museum of the USAF
For aviation enthusiasts, the National Museum of the United States Air Force is an absolute gem. Although located a short drive from Rockford in Dayton, Ohio, it’s worth mentioning due to its proximity and outstanding collection. This awe-inspiring museum showcases an extensive array of aircraft, from vintage planes to modern jets, and delves into the history of aviation and space exploration. Get up close to iconic aircraft like the Wright Flyer, Apollo space capsules, and military planes that shaped the nation’s aerial history.
