Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 9th of April.
Good morning, Rockford.
🏘️ Community
Senior Connections in Belvidere has helped older adults in Boone County for over 50 years by linking them with social services and activity programs.
Named the 2025 Boone County Community Champion, the organization plans to expand partnerships to support seniors in staying independent.
Roscoe Restaurant Week runs April 10–18 with 10 local restaurants offering special menus and photo contests.
Participants may win gift cards from the eateries and from Party Like a Rockstar Balloon Bar through social media contests.
Rockford faith leader Violet Johnicker left her role at Brooke Road Methodist Church last year to launch Table of Grace on Palm Sunday at the Good Shepherd YMCA, joining her work with Rockford Urban Ministries — an interfaith church plant offering fresh faith options.
🎭 Culture
Anderson Japanese Gardens will open on April 17 at 9 a.m. at 318 Spring Creek Road, offering 12 acres of serene landscapes with streams, waterfalls, koi ponds, and an on-site restaurant (Fresco) for breakfast and lunch while hosting events such as tea ceremonies and yoga sessions through mid-November.
🎓 Education
Rockford Public Library debuted its new mobile library on Wednesday, April 8 using a Ford E450 truck painted with a mural of the Rock River to bring books and Wi-Fi to local neighborhoods.
It will visit underserved areas this summer to offer literacy support and online access.
📰 Real Estate
UW Health SwedishAmerican has begun stripping the Civil War-era Briggs Mansion (1244 E.
State St) to clear the space needed for hospital expansion, with demolition set to start in May. This change marks a shift as the building, long recognized for its historical value, is removed from the community.
🎉 Rockford Events
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Los Huracanes Del Norte Live Concert
7-10 p.m. — Hard Rock Casino Rockford — Ticket prices vary — Experience the lively sounds of Los Huracanes Del Norte in a vibrant setting.
Rockford Handmade Market - Spring 2026
11 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Prairie Street Brewing Co. — Free entry — Experience a vibrant showcase of local creativity and craftsmanship in the spring market.
Lonely Teenage Cassette Release Show
8-10 p.m. — The Music Box — $15.08 — Experience an ambient/drone night with the local duo Lonely Teenage and special guests.
🏠 Rockford Real Estate
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💼 Rockford Job Board
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📣 Rockford Announcements
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