Good morning, Rockford.

The Kids Bowl Free program will offer children two free games of bowling each day from April 30 through August 31 at local alleys including The Cherry Bowl and Don Carter Lanes in Rockford—families of children 15 and under will receive email coupons every Sunday when they register online.

On Wednesday, over 400 juniors and seniors attended a career fair at Auburn High School in Rockford where more than 30 local businesses looked for students ready to start jobs in areas such as cosmetology, farming (or the army).

Career coach Katy Haun said the event was the first step in teaching essential work skills and encouraging career planning.

Rockford’s Education Design Development and Research Corporation received $440K from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity through the Illinois Works Pre-apprenticeship Program to create job pathways in skilled trades—addressing the ongoing shortage of trade workers.

After mail-in ballots were counted following the April 1 election, Diana Johnson won a seat on the Harlem School Board by beating Katie Littlefield by 27 votes—certified results show she will join incumbent Evelyn Meeks along with newcomers Kurt William Thompson and Diane McKinney.

Jefferson High School held a signing event where nine seniors committed to joining the Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Space Force — or Coast Guard.

Biology teacher and veteran David Bardwell organized the night after noticing school athletes received similar recognition.

Winnebago County completed its final draft of its traffic safety plan — it targets high-risk roadway areas to reduce fatalities and serious injuries — and the plan is open for public comment.

Rockford is also working on its own safety plan.

On Wednesday, Congressman Eric Sorensen joined a ride-along with Lifescape’s Meals on Wheels in Rockford and delivered meals to seniors—he spoke with board members about federal funding cuts that might make running the program harder.

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.

Prairie Street Golden Apple Give Back Day

Rockford City Tin participant, Prairie Street Brewhouse, is giving back! Golden Apple will receive 20% of the receipts for purchases from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday, May 14. Join us on the dock (or inside) at 200 Prairie St., Rockford, for some great food and drinks!