Good morning, Rockford.

The Northern Illinois Food Bank opened a Neighborhood Market in its old K-Mart on Sandy Hollow Road to ease the stigma of using food pantries by offering a grocery store style shopping experience.

The market—featuring order-ahead lockers—is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays for those in need.

On April 30, Rockford fire crews responded to two apartment fires on the east side—at 2856 Strathmoor Drive at 8:15 a.m., a two-unit building fire showed all occupants safe though one person was treated for breathing issues, causing $20,000 in damage and displacing one family, and at 424 Gramercy Court at 11:15 a.m., firefighters forced entry to a four-unit building to put out a small hallway fire with no injuries.

Rockford native Zoe Jensen will star as Glinda in the national tour of Wicked, debuting on May 20 at the Eccles Theater in Salt Lake City—she is the first Asian woman in the role and hopes to inspire local artists.

Harlem Unit School District 122 reported that 27.9% of its 2,595 students met or exceeded ELA expectations in the 2023—24 school year—a 2.7% improvement over the previous year that resulted in about 724 students passing the Illinois Assessment of Readiness.

The district serves 11 schools and has its main office in Machesney Park.

Severson Dells Nature Center said April 30 that federal funding cuts ended AmeriCorps support and forced layoffs of four local nature education workers—this move disrupts conservation projects in the area.

Two other conservation groups reported similar job losses as the federal cuts have affected over 32,000 AmeriCorps members nationwide.

Rockford’s Community Relations Commission will hold a Special Open Forum on May 8 at 5:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers—residents must sign up by noon on May 7 to speak for three minutes with two minutes set aside for questions, and those unable to attend may email their comments.

One lane of E. State Street has been closed for storm inlet repairs from Robert Avenue to Rome Avenue since April 30, and the work will finish by May 2 so drivers should use alternate routes.

Winnebago County Highway Department will start work on Elmwood Road between Owen Center Rd and IL Route 2 on May 7 to resurface asphalt, replace pipe culverts, widen shoulders & pave, and add pavement markings.

Portions of the road will be closed to thru traffic while one lane is available, and officials expect the project to finish by June 6 & delays may occur due to weather.

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.

Info Session on the Impact of Property Tax Sales

Join us for an important community event focused on property tax sales and how they impact Rockford residents. This is a FREE event open to the public—everyone is welcome! 📍 Location: Crusader Community Health Clinic | 📅 Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 | ⏰ Time: 5:30 PM | 📍 Address: 1200 W State St, Rockford, IL 61102

8th Annual Miracle Mile Car Show

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Don Carter Lanes — Entry fee $20, spectators free — Celebrate automotive passion with a showcase of cool rides and live music.

On-Site Tour at Grand Victorian

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Grand Victorian of Rockford — Free entry — Explore award-winning senior living activities and dining options in a welcoming environment.