Lil Zim

Meet Shannon Zimmerman, aka, Lil Zim; Q98.5’s own crafting queen, animal lover, chocolate aficionado, and country music enthusiast who has been helping you start your day since 2010 and stands at a whopping 5 feet 2 inches tall. (hence the nickname). Off the mic, Shannon is a devoted mom to two daughters, three dogs, and a cat. She loves her hometown of Rockford, Illinois, raising awareness for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and writing about and reading true-crime stories.

Major Recycling Mistakes Rockford Residents Keep Making

Half of Rockford’s recycling is ending up in landfills. Are you making these common recycling mistakes without realizing it?

2025 Alpine Kiwanis Brat Days Cancelled—Here’s How You Can Help

A massive storm has canceled the 2025 Alpine Kiwanis Brat Days for the first time ever. Damaged equipment makes rescheduling impossible, but there are still ways you can help.

Rockford Businesses Launch Snack Wrap Shirts for a Good Cause

McDonald’s Snack Wrap is back, and two Rockford businesses are celebrating with a shirt that benefits the Rockford Family Peace Center.

Major Tornado Alert System Malfunction in Northern Illinois

As severe storms approach Northern Illinois, officials confirm that many tornado sirens in Winnebago County are not working, leaving residents relying solely on phone alerts for warnings.

Gross Truth: Illinois and Wisconsin Lakes May Be Dirtier Than You Think

Beaches in Illinois and Wisconsin may look inviting, but over 70% tested positive for unsafe fecal bacteria at least once in 2024.

The Cheese Curds Everyone’s Talking About in Wisconsin

Braywood in Eagle River is the Northwoods spot serving up the ultimate Wisconsin treat—Spotted Cow beer-battered cheese curds you won’t forget.

Universal Studios Bringing New Year-Round Haunted House to Chicago

Horror lovers, rejoice! Universal is bringing a year-round haunted attraction to Chicago in 2027 with haunted houses, themed mazes, and chilling fun.

Wisconsin Driver Crashes Into Deputy While Eating Taco Bell

A messy meal and distracted driving led to a crash with a sheriff’s deputy in Wisconsin. Could eating in the car get you in legal trouble?

This Adventure Park in Lake Geneva Is a Must for Thrill-Seeking Families

Looking for thrilling summer fun? Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures offers ziplining, ropes courses, hiking, and more—perfect for adventurous families.

Morgan Wallen’s Madison Concert: Everything You Need to Know

Morgan Wallen hits Camp Randall in Madison this weekend with a massive show and a packed crowd. Here’s what you need to know before you go.