I agree with the schools comment. I send my kids to private school….tuition in addition to my city taxes. Hi-Ya!!!!! But, at 5:30-6:00 pm when I still see these Rockford school kids getting bussed home from the opposite side of town, I have to ask. When do they get their homework done? Get home from school at 6:00, eat, do homework…where’s the time for the extracurricular?

If they play a sport, then their up even later, and not getting a proper night sleep.

This city is anything but a picture of excellence. Don’t even get me started on the police. They’ve definitely focused on everything else but policing. They need to resolve their quarrels, and get to training to become the most effective police force that they can. I’m prior military, and was involved with some units who trained for serious stuff. That’s how our police should have the opportunity to train.

Get past the 276-6 dispute, put discipline into the ranks, and make RFPD the best police force in the country. Why can’t we?

Rockford is certainly less that ideal. I’ve been looking at moving to Machesney Park, but also, at a city our size in Missouri: Springfield, MO. They are our size, but, light years ahead, and their business, manufacturing, and economy is on “fast forward”. A very progressive city.

Our officials should go and check it out……and, take some notes.

We can be a lot more than we are, Rockford. We just have to demand it. And then……..get ignored and frustrated because nobody cared to listen to our demands!!!!!