Good morning, Rockford.

Rockford International Airport will launch seasonal international vacation flights in early 2027, offering trips to Cancun, Punta Cana, and Liberia Guanacaste.

The flights, provided by Apple Vacations and partner companies, give travelers air-only or full vacation package options + a stress-free departure from our local airport.

Live at The Wooden Handle, a lakeside concert series, returns for a second summer at West Rock Wake Park starting in June and continuing through September.

The event, which begins at 6 p.m. on the final Friday of each month, will showcase local bands & food trucks.

Rock Valley College held its second annual CEO Challenge on April 30 at its main campus and raised nearly $79,000 for student scholarships.

Ryan Adleman (named champion) and 20 local organizations set up named scholarships to support local students.

Forreston business owners at Koeller Forreston Hardware say a decision by the Forrestville Valley School District over a $12.75M bond led to the immediate closure of their credit account and has strained community ties.

The owners, also involved in local school activities, call for more transparency to mend the split.

The Boone-Winnebago Office of Education will host its Summer Symposium for teachers and mental health professionals on June 9 at the Embassy Suites in Rockford from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The program features breakout sessions and expert guidance on social and emotional learning (SEL).

Demolition crews began tearing down the historic 163-year-old Briggs Mansion Tuesday morning on East State Street for UW Health expansion—community efforts to save the Italianate-style building did not secure landmark status.

A proposed 350-unit apartment and commercial complex called University Hills received support from Rockford's Code and Regulation Committee on Tuesday, May 26 and now awaits full City Council approval.

Designed by Place Foundry (with RK Johnson), the development would span 13.3 acres near Rockford University to offer modern housing for students and staff.

Love Song Live in Vietnamese

6-9 p.m. — Hard Rock Casino Rockford — 21+ only — Experience captivating live music in a vibrant setting.

Nike Flag Football Camp in Rockford, IL

June 3-5 — Clarence Hicks Sports Complex — Pricing available upon inquiry — Enhance your flag football skills with experienced coaches and fun competitions.

Mushroom Identification Hike

10 AM - 12 PM — Funderburg Forest Preserve — $7 per person — Explore the wonders of fungi hidden in the forest during this nature adventure suitable for all ages.

Once on This Island

7:30-9:30 p.m. — RVC Starlight Theatre — Cost Info TBA — Experience a vibrant musical journey of love and destiny on the island of Haiti.

The Voice of Hind Rajab Movie Screening

3-5 p.m. — RPL Nordlof Center — $5 entry — Watch the Oscar-nominated film that explores humanity and mental health themes.

Guest Bartender Night

RPS205 administration, staff and Teacher Academy members will be behind the bar from 4-7 p.m. June 25 at Ernie’s Midtown Pub, 1025 Fifth Ave., Rockford. Fill the tip jar, get some great food and drinks and chat with your friends! A percentage will come back to Golden Apple to support local teachers. Your server may even turn out to be Dr. Jarrett! It’s a FUNdraiser — join us!