Have questions about Rockford? Ask Jim. He's been here nearly 30 years.
I’ve come to know Rockford quite intimately over the last 27 years.
Hailing from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where I studied public relations and journalism at Northern Michigan University, my dream was to land at any newspaper that would have me, get engaged in the community and tell interesting stories.
As the cliché goes, things didn’t exactly pan out the way I planned. I earned a degree. But it wasn’t until after a forgettable career in finance and a stint as a musician did I stumble into the hazy newsroom of a local weekly paper.
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Over the next 11 years, it was only fitting that I learned what they don’t teach in journalism school from an unmatched, eccentric cast of characters.
But though it all, I learned how to be a reporter and got to know the ins and outs of Rockford and what makes it tick. I've spent the past 16 years writing stories about Rockford, and the plan is to write many more.
Although it hasn’t really decided what it wants to be, Rockford is still reinventing itself after many of its factories and foundries fell victim to a global economy. Not much is “Made in Rockford” anymore. But there are still countless stories to tell.
So, with that, we’d like your help. Do you have something you’d always wanted to know about Rockford and the surrounding area? Shoot me your questions.
“Ask Jim” is a new column focusing on all things Rockford, a chance for this scribbler to write about his adopted hometown — its new developments, tall tales, history, mysteries and beyond.
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Is there something about Rockford's past that you've always wondered about? Or is there something happening in town that just has you stumped? Ask me about anything — past, present or future.
Here are some examples to stir your curiosity.
Rockford has been home to some major manufacturers over the years. We know about Amerock and National Lock. What are some others and what did they make?
Rockford has plenty of historic buildings, too. Ever wonder what they used to house and what they're being used for today?
Want an update on a particular project? Wondering what ever happened to plans that went kaput? Wishing you knew more about what went right or what went wrong?
What's the story behind Rockford's hidden gems, tastiest treats, most popular hangouts and most famous (and infamous) people?
When it comes to Rockford, what do you wish you knew more about? Now is the time to ask.
I'll be writing about your questions and whatever answers I can dig up in this column.
So what would you like to know? Send your questions, comments, and suggestions to jhagerty@rrstar.com. Please include "ASK JIM" in the subject line.
Jim Hagerty: jhagerty@rrstar.com; @jimhagerty
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Have questions about Rockford? Ask Jim, and he'll dig into it
