Good morning, Rockford.

Rock River Current shared a range of positive stories from Rockford, noting that Todd Crandell delivered a hope-filled message at an Ironman race and the Rockford Public Library retired its long-serving fountain of knowledge after 60 years—other reports show a local artist beautifying the city, a nonprofit opening a new home for youth mental health support, and a coalition set to bridge the digital divide.

A 44-year-old man was shot around 6:30 a.m. Saturday in the 2900 block of Cameron Avenue and taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries — Rockford police are investigating and requested that residents avoid the area.

Alliant Energy offers tips to help residents reduce energy use and lower cost during extreme heat by setting thermostats to 78 degrees during the day and closing shades to block the sun+ they also suggest taking cooler showers, washing clothes in cold water, adjusting water heater settings, cleaning or changing AC filters, and scheduling a professional AC tune-up.

On June 20, local officials and community members in Rockford proposed keeping the grocery tax in place after the state repealed it, saying the tax is needed to fund essential services.

On June 16th, Governor JB Pritzker signed Illinois' largest spending plan, totaling more than $55 billion and including nearly $1 billion in new taxes.

State Senator Dave Syverson criticized the plan for record spending and reduced funding for education and property tax relief — concerns that may add pressure on families and businesses statewide.

On Saturday, around 250 signs listing names of overdose victims lined the Rock River at 200 Y Boulevard during the 11th Drug Overdose Awareness Walk in Rockford.

The event was started by local resident Becca Rogers, who lost her brother to an overdose, and officials provided Narcan and support — with Winnebago County reporting a 20% drop in overdose deaths.

Rochelle's Rosemary Good will race in her first solo Ironman today in Rockford where more than 2,700 athletes are competing and temperatures may near 100 degrees.

She began training in November while balancing work and family and said she is ready to push through pain — her family will support her at the event.

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.

Lifescape 4th of July Classic Run/Walk

7:00–11:00 a.m. — Riverview Ice House — Registration required — Celebrate Independence Day with a classic run/walk through downtown Rockford.

Screw City Duathlon and Multi-Sports Event

8 AM — Peak Sports Club — Register by July 8, 2024 — Participate in a thrilling duathlon, team duathlon, or 2-mile run/walk in a community-focused event.