Daily
Rockford
Friday, May 2nd, 2025
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Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 2nd of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Community leaders, mental health advocates and educators gathered in Rockford for the Unlocked Potential Summit — where local youth learned to share their struggles and build support through mentoring. The event focused on empowering young people facing challenges such as poverty and trauma through connection and understanding. WIFR
- ➤ Rockford University partnered with Lang Health and the Jane Addams Center to mark Denim Day with a class project focused on raising sexual assault awareness—students hosted flag football activities, drills, and an art exhibit sharing messages of resilience and hope. WIFR
- ➤ GoRockford is seeking hundreds of volunteers for the city’s first IRONMAN 70.3 event from June 20 to June 22 to fill roles such as water safety, lifeguard support, transition assistance and environmental cleanup in Rockford—volunteers must register by June 8 and be 14 or older as the event is expected to attract thousands of athletes and visitors. WIFR
- ➤ Lyra O’Brien, who worked as a reporter and weathercaster for WTVO Channel 17 from 1992 to 1997, passed away on May 1 after quietly battling health issues, her husband said — she later worked in various TV markets and became a realtor in 2014. She was a Schaumberg native whose career touched many parts of the media world. WTVO
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ The Chicago Rockford International Airport set a record in March by serving nearly 40,000 passengers—a 34% increase over last March—driven by spring break travel to warm destinations and extra flights from Allegiant Air. Airport officials say they will add more routes and increase flight frequency to support continued travel growth. Rock River Current
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ A swearing-in ceremony will follow the Rockford City Council meeting that begins at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, May 5 at the Council Chambers at 425 E. State Street. Attendees may enter at 5 p.m. — those unable to attend in person can watch the meeting live on Comcast Channel 17 and online. Rockford Sun
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Mercyhealth will open its new 19000 square foot Cancer Institute May 5 at 8201 E. Riverside Blvd, Rockford—located next to Javon Bea Hospital—Riverside—to offer expanded medical and radiation oncology services. The facility features enhanced treatment areas, advanced technology and direct access to a Level 1 Trauma Center for emergencies. WIFR
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Rockford’s housing inventory is at a record low with only 150 homes available—a drop of more than 22% from last year. Local realtors say sellers should seize this golden opportunity while buyers need to act fast and be well-prepared. 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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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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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
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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.
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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.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Any fool can make something complicated. It takes a genius to make it simple.
~ Cornelius Vanderbilt
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