September 26th, 2008
For the Sunday front page centerpiece of “180 Degrees: Solutions for a Better Rockford,” our graphic artist Billy Kulpa created a “Welcome to Rockford” postcard to reflect the growing number of cultural attractions. He chose a retro type feel with modern-day pictures.
Back in the day when I actually sent postcards (maybe 10 years ago), I remember buying Rockford postcards at Magna and other drugstores.
Now it’s your turn: Create a Rockford postcard, and I’ll post it (as long as it’s tasteful, people!). Send to jpollock@rrstar.com in jpeg format with your name, city of residence, daytime phone number for verification and maybe a sentence or two about your design. Note: Submissions may be published or distributed in print, electronic or other forms.
April 28th, 2008
I’ve never understood why so many people are so down on this community. I moved here eight years ago. Figured I would stay two and move on to another news organization. Ended up falling in love with the people and the town. Mostly, it’s the people who are from here who dis it the most. Why is that? I don’t have bad things to say about Peoria (my hometown) or Cedarburg, Wis. (a town just north of Milwaukee where I lived through middle and high school).
(Just look at what people had to say about Rockford after Rolling Stone blasted the town.)
You hear about “that school system,” the crime rate, the lack of jobs and so on. These are all things we can do something about.
There was a big push last year to be positive about Rockford and the surrounding area when consultant Rebecca Ryan visited. She presented a report that highlighted ways our region could be more vital. She encouraged Rockfordians to sign a pledge. By signing, you agreed to be positive about Rockford. I signed it way back when. (Unfortunately, the pledge appears to be offline now.)
ALAN LEON | RRSTAR.COM FILE PHOTO
Rebecca Ryan (right) of Next Generation Consulting answers a question posed by Linda Grist Cunningham, Register Star executive editor, during an Editorial Board meeting held Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2007, at the News Tower. Ryan answered questions regarding the results of her study: “Attracting and Retaining Young Talent to the Rockford Area.”
I feel I am being positive about Rockford with this project: 180 Degrees: Solutions for a Better Rockford. Want to find ways to make Rockford a better place. Reduce crime. Improve education. Promote our community. Not simple things to achieve. But if we truly make this a campaign and we all get on board, we could make a difference.
Will you join the movement?
