Good morning, Rockford.

LimaMar Restaurant and Cocktail Bar announced that its downtown Rockford location at 221 E.

State Street will permanently close on April 30. The restaurant thanked the community for years of memories as it prepares to end its operations.

Loves Park announced that AutoZone and Belle Tire will soon join Club Carwash on Deery Drive at the former Rockford Speedway site—this move is part of a plan to redevelop the 14.5-acre property into a retail complex led by Shorewood Development Group.

Rockford’s LimaMar, a Peruvian restaurant at 221 E.

State Street that served local dishes like Ceviche+Conchitas+Causa for six years, announced it will close permanently on April 30 as its owners Ross+Rosana Terry end the venture.

Tyler Lee, 38, was convicted of second degree murder for shooting Christopher Peters during a fight on May 20th in Loves Park—neighbors later found Peters outside his door.

On April 2, around 3:45 p.m., Rockford Police arrested 19-year-old Torrey Ristow after he strangled and bit a woman during a car argument on Village Court+ witnesses intervened when he punched her, she defended herself, and he threatened her life.

On April 5, Rockford University will host a three-part International Food Festival at its campus, featuring a free Around the World exhibit in the lower level of the Burpee Student Center from 3 to 5 p.m and an international dinner at the Dining Hall from 4:30 to 6 p.m with tickets at $10 in advance or $12 at the door. The event will end with a free Flag Ceremony and performances in Regents Hall from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m — offering a cultural experience that highlights 28 countries and 37 national anthems — for community members.

Jefferson High School junior Mikiah Gerrity won the Illinois Poetry Out Loud State Championship and will represent Illinois in a national poetry contest in Washington D.C. from May 5th to 7th—she hopes her win will inspire others to try new challenges.

Rockford’s OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center welcomed Alec Grabowski as its new president on Tuesday, April 1 when he began leading internal operations—he replaces Paula Carynski, who retired after 11 years in the role.

Grabowski brings 15 years of health care experience and ties to the community through his Polish and Swedish roots.

The 2025 National Collegiate Table Tennis Championships began on April 3 at UW Health Sports Factory and will run until April 6, featuring nearly 250 student-athletes from over 50 colleges and universities.

The event is expected to boost Rockford’s economy — drawing teams from 25 U.S. states and international competitors.

Air Supply Live Concert

7 PM – 1 AM — Hard Rock Casino Rockford — Tickets available — Experience the legendary sounds of Air Supply at this unforgettable live performance.

Easter Egg-Streme Egg Hunt

7-9 p.m. — The YMCA of Rock River Valley - Northeast Family YMCA — Free entry — Celebrate Easter with egg hunts, crafts, and a photo with the Easter bunny.

Egg Hunt at Camp Winnebago

1-4 p.m. — Camp Winnebago Branch YMCA — Free entry — Enjoy a fun-filled Easter Egg Hunt with games, crafts, and thousands of eggs filled with sweets and prizes.

34th Annual RAMI Awards

7-10:30 p.m. — Hard Rock Casino Rockford — Ticket info not specified — Celebrate the achievements of the Rockford music community during this annual awards night.

Screw City Car Show

10 AM – 2 PM — Screw City Tavern — Free entry — Celebrate spring with tacos, music, and a showcase of cars, trucks, and bikes.

Bergstrom Corporate Headquarters Tour

5:30-8 p.m. — Bergstrom Inc — Free entry — Explore the heart of Bergstrom operations since 1971 and network with industry peers.

Steve Trevino at Coronado Theatre

8:00–9:30 p.m. — Coronado Theatre — Ticket prices starting at $38 — Experience a night of laughter with comedian Steve Trevino.

Fresh Finds Spring Market

12-5 p.m. — Rockford Wholesalers — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful day of shopping local with handmade goods and fresh finds.