Good morning, Rockford.

Rockford Police arrested Jordan Bickler, 24, on May 5 at 10:30 a.m. for allegedly breaking into his former residence condemned after a fire, with the landlord alleging he caused the fire and officers charging him with criminal trespassing and property damage.

Harlem High School celebrated its soon-to-be teachers yesterday at a Future Teacher Signing Event—inviting family and friends to honor students who completed four education classes.

Twelve seniors, including Mackenzie Erickson, signed university intent letters to pursue teaching careers—highlighting their commitment to education.

Records show a 99% drop in student municipal violation tickets in Rockford Public Schools this year—only 2 issued compared to 178 last year.

School officials have not fully confirmed the change—while advocates say the reduction may help end unfair fines for students.

The City of Rockford earned the GFOA Triple Crown for Excellence in Financial Management by receiving all three top honors from the Government Finance Officers Association—one of fewer than 0.5% of local governments to do so.

Mayor Tom McNamara credited the Finance Department and city team for their hard work and dedication to clear financial reporting.

Rockford-area leaders began a $32M project on May 6 to transform the Public Safety Building at 420 W.

State St. into a Family Court Center with modern courtrooms, a domestic violence assistance center, and a children’s waiting room—upper floors will be cleared for future use. The main courthouse entrance will temporarily move to 403 Elm Street until renovations finish by summer.

OSF HealthCare will host a free skin cancer screening event at the Patricia D.

Pepe Center for Cancer Care in Rockford during Skin Cancer Awareness Month + dermatologists from Edgebrook Dermatology will examine patients from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, May 10 to check for early signs of skin cancer.

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.

Timber Pointe Party Band Performance

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Timber Pointe Golf Club — Check event page for ticket info — High energy party band covering a wide variety of music from the 70’s to today’s hits.