Good morning, Rockford.

On June 4, 2026, the 1834 Alliance of Transformational Dreamers + Doers held its inaugural Honors + Celebration at the RPL Nordlof Center, where community guests and leaders including Mayor Tom McNamara shared remarks.

Pearl Lake reopened under new ownership, reviving the classic summer destination with a revamped lodge, playground, sport courts (basketball and pickleball) and fun house, and management will add nearly 150 new waterfront campsites on the west side to expand family-friendly amenities.

On June 4, the 1834 Alliance honored downtown Rockford and the Rockford Promise college program at the Public Library Nordlof Center for their work in transforming local spaces.

Peter Provenzano and Kaylene Groh accepted honors on behalf of groups (celebrating community effort).

The Boys and Girls Club hosted its 15th Smash fundraiser Friday, June 5 at its Rockford center, where community supporters raised funds to help maintain youth programs and services (including tutoring, health care, and skill-building).

Music on the Mall returns for its 5th season at Edgebrook Shops every Friday except July 3rd, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Swingbilly RFD opened the season with 40s-50s honky-tonk as the lead singer said he loves playing off crowd energy.

Rockford University hosted its annual gala Friday night at the Rockford Public Library, offering fundraising opportunities, entertainment and a live auction to support its students and strengthen community partnerships as noted by Vice President Katherine Trotter.

Keith Country Day School celebrated its Class of 2026 on May 28 at Rockford University's Maddox Theatre.

The 13 seniors received nearly $9 million in merit-based scholarships and will attend colleges across the country.

Rockford's Human Services Department revealed that new SNAP work requirements, in effect since May 1, have strained efforts to assist homeless residents in accessing food.

Program manager Angie Walker said the department is working with community partners to update records and help those affected.

Amberwood Care Centre in Rockford operated under four owners since Dec.

30, 2021 and earned a CMS rating of 3 with an average of 125 residents per day in Q1 (the facility can accommodate 135 residents).

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!

Rockford Fourth of July Fireworks

5-9:30 p.m. — Davis Park at Founders Landing — Free entry — Enjoy a spectacular 30-minute fireworks display synchronized to music over the Rock River.

An Evening with The Brass Queens

7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Music Box — Ticket pricing not specified — Enjoy an energetic performance by the female-led brass band making waves since 2019.