Good morning, Rockford.

Rock River Valley Pantry and the Northern Illinois Food Bank prepare for SNAP cuts that will remove benefits for about 6,000 locals starting May 1.

To help, they scheduled a pop-up grocery event for up to 750 households on May 16 at Sandy Hollow Road.

Carpenters Local 792 celebrated its 125th anniversary today at Hard Rock Casino with over 700 guests, including union members and local officials.

The union, which trains local carpenters and operates from a historic Labor Temple and a Tebala Boulevard center — reflects decades of community impact.

Rockford Rescue Mission paused its lunchtime service on Wednesday to honor Chef Brad, a seven-year volunteer, by awarding him Volunteer of the Year and presenting him with a leather apron.

He said the recognition inspires him to keep helping the community.

Stellantis executives and UAW leaders tour the Belvidere Assembly Plant today as they prepare to discuss a launch agreement ahead of a meeting scheduled for May 6.

Production will resume in 2027 after a $600 million investment.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources awarded field trip grants to northern Illinois schools; seventh graders from Kenyon Woods Middle School will visit Starved Rock (while fifth and fourth graders from Long Beach and Madison Elementary tour Harris and Byron Forest Preserves).

Drivers can expect road work to begin May 1 on U.S. Business and Bypass 20 and Illinois 70 in Rockford as crews also repair Illinois 64 in Ogle County.

The Illinois Department of Transportation will finish repairs by July 20 while flaggers manage daytime lane closures.

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.

Mother's Day Garden Celebration

12-3 p.m. — Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden — General admission required — Celebrate Mother's Day with floral arrangements, live music, and delicious food in a beautiful garden setting.

The Wizard of Oz

6 PM — Rockford Woman's Club — Cost not specified — Experience a captivating retelling of the beloved classic as you journey down the yellow brick road.

Heart Vs Hustle: Dej Loaf and Rob49 Concert

7-10 p.m. — Hard Rock Live - Rockford — Ticket availability varies — Enjoy an electrifying night with Dej Loaf and Rob49 at the Hard Rock Casino.