Good morning, Rockford.

Rockford Police arrested Oscar Taylor, 55, after he allegedly robbed a downtown convenience store clerk at knifepoint around 8:15 a.m. Wednesday; investigators found the knife, clothing, and cash nearby and charged him with armed robbery, aggravated robbery, and aggravated battery (strangulation).

Goodwill hosted a free job fair at Forest City Church on July 10 that connected Rockford job seekers with local employers — including those in construction, manufacturing, engineering, warehousing and CNC — looking to hire for skilled trades positions.

Residents in Rockford have increased the amount of recyclables in their bins since larger carts were introduced over a year ago—yet about half of the collected tonnage is being rejected due to non-recyclable items.

City officials and Waste Connections will boost public education on proper recycling methods using social media.

Nearly 2,500 customers lost power Thursday in Winnebago County as storms and flooding hit the area—over 1,200 in Rockford remain without power while restoration times are pending.

Illinois residents may lose SNAP benefits under new rules that require work checks and more frequent reporting—Gov. JB Pritzker said 360,000 people could lose help and state costs would rise to $705 million annually.

Illinois Rep. Darin LaHood said SNAP will remain for those who are disabled or elderly.

Illinois lawmakers and public health officials are raising awareness of firearm restraining orders as a way to temporarily remove guns from those in crisis—one of 21 states with these laws.

State Representative Dave Vella said the orders give time to address domestic, drug and mental health issues—aiming to reduce gun violence without filing criminal charges.

Residents in Winnebago County say many tornado sirens are not working after a test and county officials reported dozens still need repair—40 sirens have been fixed so far, and residents are urged to sign up for the Emergency Notification System for alerts on severe weather.

The city announced an emergency water main repair on the 200 block of Kishwaukee Street between Walnut Street and 2nd Avenue - traffic controls are in place and drivers are advised to use alternate routes until repairs will be completed in 3-5 business days.

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.

Dockside Live featuring Tristan Sheedloe

6-9 p.m. — Prairie Street Brewing Co. — Free entry — Enjoy original tunes and 90s grunge covers while relaxing by the riverfront.