Good morning, Rockford.

Yesterday, a gravestone dedication placed a proper headstone for Civil War veteran Samuel H.

Bogenrief at Arlington Memorial Park in Rockford—he served as a farrier with the 17th Illinois Cavalry and his marker was added nearly 100 years after his death.

Rockford Mass Transit District and the Rockford Food Insecurity Task Force launched a campaign on June 26 that put route guide signs on 41 buses to help residents in poverty find local food pantries.

Officials say the project aims to boost food access for over 22% of area residents and may later include a mobile market option — a long-term effort to fight hunger.

Rockford Police arrested Donta Johnson, 42, for allegedly attacking a pregnant woman who was calling for help during an argument on March 14 at 11 p.m. on Ford Street — court records show he had three past domestic battery convictions — and he now faces charges for aggravated battery.

Angel Crowder—30 was arrested by Rockford Police in the Whiskey Roadhouse parking lot on North Main Street around 2 a.m. on June 25 for allegedly pepper-spraying a woman and stealing her phone, wig, and shoes, with officers later granting her pretrial release on June 26.

Loves Park Police arrested 30-year-old Kiel Uecker on June 25 around 11 a.m. after he allegedly fired his rifle from an apartment window to show off his gun & he now faces two counts of reckless discharge of a firearm while endangering people.

Rockford Public Schools hosted a town hall to launch the three-year BAGS initiative that will boost students' behavior, attendance, grades and social-emotional learning—50 male educators and 50 female educators from the Brothers for Change and Sisters for Change groups will mentor and support scholars throughout the program.

Realtors say Rockford buyers face a tight market with fewer homes and rising prices.

Experts report that Baby Boomers—who now represent more than half of sellers—are staying in their homes, keeping inventory low and prices high.

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.

Japanese Summer Festival

Experience Japanese culture — July 26-27 — Anderson Japanese Gardens — Admission details not specified — Enjoy live performances, martial arts, crafts, and delicious cuisine in a serene garden setting.