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Stories

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Stories

Every community is built by the stories told from each of the successes of our residents and businesses. Here are a few from Freeport and Stephenson County.

Ryan Shirley, "Don't do it for the praise, do it for the purpose."
Diane Regan quote
Mindy Reiman quote
Austin Bower quote
Gary Eisenhower quote
Marilyn Smit quote
Steve Kneubuehl quote
Stephanie Lewis quote
Miles Schwartz quote
Ted Tomita quote
Chris Schneiderman quote

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From Freeport to Everywhere: A simpler way to reach 350+ destinations with RFD + American Airlines Landline November 5, 2025 Freeport, Stephenson County Families and businesses across Stephenson County have a new, easier way to start a trip. American Airlines, operated by The Landline Company, connects Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) to American’s global network through Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)—all on a single American itinerary that you book on AA.com or the American app. You begin your journey right here in our […]
Guest Columnist Kim McIver – Native American Heritage Month November 5, 2025 Freeport, quiet souls, Stephenson County The Partnership is honored to commemorate Native American Heritage Month with a guest column from Kim McIver of Quiet Souls in Freeport. Kim is also an Illinois Road Scholar and award-winning Ojibwa author from the White Earth Reservation in northwest Minnesota. We asked Kim a few questions to provide a better understanding of Native culture. As most of you know, November is […]
Saved by the Swifties August 18, 2025 Last week, I had the privilege of joining thousands of tourism industry professionals from around the country at the Destination International Annual Conference in Chicago. This is a conference our small destination wouldn’t usually attend, but being so close to home, it was a great opportunity to meet and learn from a much wider group. The people were amazing, education […]
A Welcoming Community Fuels Economic Growth June 12, 2025 A thriving economy starts with a welcoming community. When people from different backgrounds, cultures, races, and orientations feel valued and accepted, they bring new ideas, businesses, and opportunities that strengthen our local economy.  Cultural competence is more than just embracing diversity—it’s a powerful driver of economic development, tourism, and business growth. Communities that foster inclusivity become attractive destinations for visitors, […]