Good morning, Rockford.

Mark Henderson, who served as WIFR TV's chief meteorologist in Rockford for 22 years, left the station on Wednesday—after being informed of a change in the weather department's direction—while he looks for a new role to help the community.

He expressed gratitude for his long tenure and remains committed to local service.

Toad Hall Books and Records in Rockford has upgraded its parking lot and store layout to host special sales events and meet growing interest in physical media.

Owner Nick Naruz said the new setup now supports 17 vehicles and a relocated shipping container will be used for special sales events — a change that benefits customers.

Ingersoll Machine Tools in Rockford developed a special 3D printer with a large-scale milling machine for the U.S. Army—designed to print and mill parts quickly for battlefield needs—and celebrated the creation on May 30 when Rockford Army Surplus and the local Police Tactical team visited the plant at 854 S. Lyford Road.

The family-owned Capri Restaurant will open a new Loves Park location on Sunday, June 15 with many historic pieces from its Rockford site that was damaged by fire in October 2022 — the updated space features restored murals, classic signs, and a window for watching pizzas being made.

Rockford Police arrested William Chatman on May 29 after his vehicle ignored a stop sign and had an expired registration + a search revealed cannabis, cocaine and a loaded pistol + he now faces charges for illegal firearm possession and drug delivery.

Rockford Police arrested Demarland Rollins, Marquice Rollins, and two juveniles during a weapons raid on May 30th.

Officers searched a duplex in the 400 block of 11th Street around 10:45 a.m. — finding a stolen Volkswagen, a loaded pistol, ammunition and cannabis.

A circuit court judge ruled that Rockford could not enforce a rule that required venues to earn 50% of their revenue from food and drinks before adding extra slot machines—Kelly Quinby of Spinning Slots had sued after her business was denied a sixth terminal despite state law allowing it.

Rockford judge Lisa Fabiano permanently blocked the city rule that required bars and restaurants with slot machines to generate 50% of their revenue from food and drinks — a move meant to limit gaming parlors.

The decision, based on changes to the Illinois Video Gaming Act, affects about 60 local establishments, and city officials are considering an appeal.

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.

Portillo's Golden Apple Give Back Day

Golden Apple Foundation will receive 20% of the receipts for purchases from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, June 18, at 6090 E. State St., Rockford. Join us for some great food and drinks! Order online or in-app for pickup using code PORTILLOS36 before checkout in the “Coupon Code” field or let the cashier know when ordering at the restaurant. Valid on drive-thru, pickup, kiosk and in-restaurant orders!

Rockford Job Fair

10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Radisson Hotel & Conference Center Rockford — Free entry — Connect face-to-face with several employers hiring in the Rockford area.