Daily
Rockford
Friday, April 18th, 2025
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Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 18th of April.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ With storms on the horizon, Pearson Plumbing and Heating advised Rockford homeowners to install operational sump pumps and battery backups to protect their basements since FEMA warns that one inch of water can cause $25,000 in damages (experts say prompt action can prevent severe flooding). The company also recommended checking outdoor faucets and air conditioner drains to reduce the risk of water damage. WIFR
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Rockford mom Rosie Blake Thomas canceled her vacation today expecting her son Jovan’s murder trial to begin next week but learned the case of his shooting on April 16, 2016 will be pushed to September—she calls for a speedy trial and courtroom reforms after waiting nine years for justice. WIFR
- ➤ Roland Breault, a 61-year-old Rockford man convicted last year for involuntary manslaughter in the 2016 stabbing death of bar owner Joe Pendergrass, will appear in A&E’s new series Accused: Did I Do It? airing at 9 p.m. CT on Thursdays. WIFR
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Ed Hajim, a former University of Rochester board chairman and Wall Street executive, appeared on the Teachers’ Lounge podcast today to discuss his new book Island of the Four Ps—a fable that helps students plan for an uncertain future by trusting their inner voice. Northern Public Radio
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Severson Dells Nature Center invites residents from Winnebago, Boone, Ogle, Stephenson and DeKalb counties to join the Global City Nature Challenge from April 25 to 28 by exploring local outdoor areas and capturing images of plants, animals and fungi on the iNaturalist app—these observations will support land and wildlife conservation. The challenge includes free local events like guided hikes and plant walks that will engage community members throughout Rockford. WIFR
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Illinoisians with cannabis convictions now can get free legal help from New Leaf Illinois — working with Prairie State Legal Services in Rockford — to clear old records, and over 80,000 people may be eligible. The process takes about four to six months and often does not require court appearances, so interested individuals should check their records and start the petition process. WIFR
- ➤ On April 17, firefighters cut a hose to mark the opening of the new fire station at 1011 Harlem Road in Machesney Park after voters approved a $5 million bond in 2022 to centralize operations—officials say nearly 90% of the community now has quicker response times. WIFR
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Organizers of the Victory Pickleball Dink for Pink event raised over $3,000 to support breast cancer patients at UW Health in Rockford. The fundraiser held on March 1 attracted more than 300 participants and resulted in a $3,351 check presented on April 17 to the SwedishAmerican Health Foundation—funds used for local cancer care. WIFR
- ➤ OSF Saint Anthony held a flag raising ceremony on April 11 at 11 a.m. to mark Organ Donor Awareness Month and honor families of donors—an event that began with personal stories of hope. Anne Moorman shared her experience with loss to encourage families to make their own organ donation decisions. WIFR
SHOP NEWS
- ➤ TODAY'S SPONSOR We never have to worry about dead batteries and missed calls thanks to this portable power bank that can charge up to five devices at once. The Buy
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Rockford.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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Lola Blu Solo Sunday Funday
2-8 p.m. — Louie's Tap House — Free entry — Experience the soulful sounds of rising country star Lola Blu with her captivating voice live on stage.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.
~ Theodore Roosevelt
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