Good morning, Rockford.

The YMCA of Rock River Valley assumed management of Harlem Community Center on Feb.

1 to boost programs and long-term stability for area families in Machesney Park, with support from local leaders. The partnership aims to expand childcare, youth sports and activities for older adults.

Gustafson's Furniture and Mattress, a 98-year-old family-owned store at 6651 E.

State Street, closed on Sunday, Feb. 15 for restructuring that will let founders Dale and Trina retire while David and Christopher take over. Customers can get updates by calling (815-636-8608) for refunds or product inquiries.

Rockford Public Schools may change bus providers from Sunrise to Zum (a Silicon Valley firm costing more) after the school board votes today at 7 p.m. at the administration building, and some parents worry about maintaining safe rides for students with special needs.

At Kinnikinnick School in Roscoe, the principal hired the first Student Support Interventionist, Allison Watt, to support fourth + fifth graders with academics and behavior.

The role, part of a seven-district rollout backed by the Regional Office of Education, has already helped students show progress and confidence.

On Feb. 16, a career event at Rochelle Community Hospital let local high school students explore hospital work with mock surgeries, clinical demonstrations + hands-on activities such as injections, IV starts and suturing on pigs’ feet.

The free event is offered twice yearly to inspire future health care providers.

Illinois tax experts advise local residents to prepare tax returns early because a new Postal Service rule now marks mail when it reaches a postal facility (not when it is dropped off), which could delay processing if documents are mailed on April 15.

This guidance aims to avoid penalties and ensure timely filing.

WIFR introduces Adopt 815 to help local families meet shelter pets; this week, Star, a two-year-old cat, is available today at Winnebago County Animal Services (4517 N.

Main St.) who loves treats and affection.

The nearly 114-year-old former Elks Lodge No. 64 was demolished Monday morning (Feb.

16) at the corner of Jefferson and Main after months of debate over its preservation, and cleanup is underway with plans to turn the site into green space and offer brick pickups to residents.

Dexter Patterson Meet & Greet and Book Signing

3-7 p.m. — RPL Nordlof Center — Free for general admission; VIP tickets available — Celebrate Black History Month with author Dexter Patterson sharing his passion for birding and signing his new book.

An Evening with Laid Back Country Picker

7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Music Box — Cost not specified — A unique concert blending country rock with a powerful duo performance.

An Evening with Freedy Johnston

8:00 – 10:00 p.m. — The Music Box — From $18.85 — Enjoy the poignant storytelling of acclaimed songwriter Freedy Johnston as he performs live.

La Fe Norteña Concert

8 PM — Apollo Activity Center — $40.00 + Fees — Enjoy a night of vibrant Norteno music featuring La Fe Norteña and more.

Charlie Berens Comedy Show

5-8 p.m. — Coronado Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with Emmy-winning comedian and author Charlie Berens.

Fireside Music with Rockford Symphony Orchestra

11:30 AM – 1:30 PM — Anderson Japanese Gardens — Free entry — Enjoy a cozy atmosphere with live music from Rockford’s premier youth choir while savoring light lunches and pastries.