Good morning, Rockford.

Rockford City Market opens today for its 16th season with over 50 vendors—18 of which are new including Honey Boy’s BBQ—and organizers expect about 5,000 visitors if weather permits.

Carolyn Kloss retired from Hillman Elementary after more than 30 years in education, and the school honored her legacy by installing a Little Free Library— a book exchange that promotes reading— outside the building.

Kloss will continue to visit Rockford schools to read to students and ensure the library stays stocked.

In the 2023-24 school year, 54.9% of students at Kinnikinnick Community Consolidated School District 131 did not meet math standards on the IAR test, a 4.1% rise from the previous year.

The district covers schools in Winnebago County and has its main office in Roscoe as reported by the Illinois State Board of Education.

Professor Timm Adams is now the artistic director of Camerata Emanon and will keep his job as Associate Professor of Music at Rockford University while leading the Camerata Emanon Singers—he follows Dr. Timothy Anderson's ten-year leadership and brings a strong background in choir and theater work.

On Thursday, six Guilford High School students signed letters to serve in the armed forces—three joining the National Guard, two the Army and one the Air Force—while 16 others committed to pursuing trades through the school's construction program with Habitat for Humanity.

Staff Sergeant Nicholas Antczak, a Guilford alumnus, noted that strong family support helped shape these students’ decisions.

Hard Rock Casino Rockford turned its lights blue on May 15 in honor of Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week as local law enforcement leaders and city officials attended the commemoration.

The casino donated $1,000 each to Blue 815 and the Greg Lindmark Foundation—organizations that support police training and first responder mental health.

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.