Good morning, Rockford.

Yesterday, Rockford congregations joined Rockford Urban Ministries for an interfaith prayer walk for justice on Good Friday.

The walk began at Emmanuel Episcopal Church and stopped at 14 downtown locations to pray for issues like mass incarceration + it marked the 37th year of the tradition.

Rockford police are searching for a suspect after a burglary occurred at Mulligans — 2212 N.

Main Street — on April 18, and they shared surveillance photos while urging anyone with information to contact them.

Rockford police arrested Austin Olmstead (18 years old) on gun charges after stopping a vehicle on Searles Avenue at 4:30 p.m. on April 17 that was linked to a March 29 incident and found ammunition and a gun light (charges include aggravated possession of a weapon as well as possession of a firearm with a defaced serial number and no valid FOID).

The Better Business Bureau warned Rockford residents to beware of scammers who send texts, calls and emails offering help with getting a REAL ID by May 7—government agencies do not call to check REAL IDs and fake websites may steal your information.

Rockford University will host its annual Internship and Career Fair from 1-4 p.m. Tuesday, April 22 at Regents Hall in the Burpee Student Center.

More than 40 companies will be present to offer students networking opportunities and insights into campus job openings—students can also receive professional headshots.

Earlier this week, RFK Jr. said children with autism will never pay taxes, hold a job, play baseball, write a poem or go on a date.

Local groups RAMP in Rockford and the Superhero Center in Loves Park said his remarks are false—autistic people work, build relationships and add value to the community.

OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center’s Strive Recovery Program is helping Rockford residents heal from trauma linked to gun violence after recent shootings in Dallas and Florida—program manager Therasa Yehling said 98% of those served have avoided hospital stays for serious thoughts.

A stateline mother and a local parent stressed that stronger mental health care and community ties are needed to help prevent future tragedies.

Macktown Golf Course opened Friday, April 18 in Rockton to mark the start of the 2025 golf season—players of all levels, from seasoned golfers to high school freshman Hunter Sopczak trying his first round, enjoyed the course's hilly and tight layout.

The course, built in 1931, remains open daily through November for continued play.

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!

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.