Good morning, Rockford.

Rockford's 2025 fireworks show will launch from the Jefferson Street Bridge for the first time in 25 years and feature new pyrotechnic ground effects during a 30-minute display set to music on 103.1 FM.

Residents are advised to use new viewing areas downtown—such as Prairie Street Brewing Co. and Riverview Ice House parking lot—as traditional spots will no longer provide a view, and several bridges will close during the event.

A 24-year-old woman was injured when her 2002 Chevrolet Suburban rolled over on Cherry Valley Road in Boone County at about 5:53 p.m. on Wednesday—she was taken to a hospital in Rockford and is in stable condition, police said.

Three Rockford men are accused of killing Ruben Hernandez on the steps of a west side home on July 1 & investigators reported that a fight started earlier in the evening before multiple people returned later to assault him, causing severe head injuries.

Rockford police arrested 44-year-old Dontae Bell after finding him driving a stolen Ford Escape near Taco Bell on East State Street; he was charged with possession of a stolen vehicle, driving on a revoked license, theft, and possession of drug paraphernalia — he is wanted in multiple counties over outstanding warrants — and officers recovered crack cocaine and a glass pipe on him.

Rockford Police arrested gang member Davontae Curry, 29, on multiple weapons charges after a traffic stop near Schalck and Halsted on July 3 at 1 a.m.—Curry ran on foot when officers found a pistol in the vehicle and was later caught on Darwood Drive.

Recent local government reports show that in 2024 all H-1B petitions for Rockford employers in wholesale, retail and transportation were approved by USCIS while Rep. Cabello has invited 90th District residents to join his 2025-2026 Legislative Survey and hosted a session wrap-up at Highland Community College. Meanwhile — Gov. Pritzker announced plans to seek a third term, signed a $55 billion spending plan, and his tax hikes and sanctuary policies have drawn sharp criticism.

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.

Greater Rockford Classic

Fri-Sun, Aug 1-3 — Aldeen Golf Club — Registration Fee Required — Compete in a nearly century-old tournament with 54 holes of stroke play open to players aged 14 and older.

Maxwell Concert

7-10 p.m. — Hard Rock Live - Rockford — Tickets from $86 — Experience a night of soulful melodies with Maxwell at Hard Rock Casino.