Good morning, Rockford.

The 4th of July Civic Committee announced that fireworks will launch from the Jefferson Street Bridge for the first time in 25 years.

The 30 minute, soundtrack synched show will begin at 9:30 p.m. on July 4 with food trucks and local festivities nearby while using a reduced budget of $60,000.

Six businesses opened at Plaza Comercial at 4040 Charles Street in Rockford on April 11th after renovations by Smart Home Realty following a $200,000 purchase from Karen Baptist Church.

The property offers a one-stop shop for realty services including loans, insurance, titles and home inspections—additional spaces remain available and future business classes are planned.

Rockford record stores Toad Hall Books and Records and Culture Shock Clothing and Records are preparing for National Record Store Day today.

Toad Hall (2106 Broadway) will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. with special deals and an early selection process starting at 6 a.m., and Culture Shock (2239 Charles St) will offer various promotions as customers are urged to arrive early due to expected long lines.

The City of Rockford earned its second Gold Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health from Mental Health America in recognition of its strong workplace policies that support employee wellness.

House Bill 1237—introduced by Rep. Maurice West—is headed to the Senate after the Illinois House passed it on Thursday with a 71-40 vote, and if signed into law, it will require seven northern Illinois schools to change their Native American-themed names, logos, or mascots by 2030. Affected schools can keep their current designs until they meet guidelines such as discontinuing use of old materials or securing tribal consent.

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker is evaluating whether he will testify at a Congressional hearing on May 15th—his state's sanctuary laws shield undocumented immigrants from federal authorities.

Committee Chair Rep. James Comer said the hearing will address claims that these policies risk public safety.

Lawmakers passed Senate Bill 1784—set to raise the minimum age for arresting minors from 10 to 12—on April 11th, and the bill now heads to the House for further review.

Nearly 300 Illinois Army National Guard soldiers returned from a month-long overseas deployment on April 11th at Chicago Rockford International Airport—families greeted them with hugs and smiles.

The event highlighted strong support as loved ones warmly reunited with the returning soldiers.

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.

Open Mosque Day

4:30-6:30 p.m. — 1110 Arthur Ave — Free entry — Explore the beauty of the mosque and connect with the local Muslim community.

Mother's Day Brunch

10 AM – 2 PM — The Standard — $35 per person — Celebrate with a delightful brunch and unlimited mimosas in honor of Mom.