Good morning, Rockford.

Winnebago County Animal Services has extended the BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelters adoption event through Saturday, July 25 at 4517 N.

Main St. in Rockford; the event will offer dog adoptions at $50, kitten adoptions at $30 and adult cat adoptions at $5+ all adoptions include wellness care.

The Kevin D. Rice Sr. Memorial Bike Ride and Picnic will take place Saturday, Aug.

1. Riders will complete a 15.7-mile route that starts and ends at the Winnebago County 9/11 Emergency Responders Memorial, with a picnic at Macedonia Baptist Church in Rockford honoring his legacy.

Rockford's Chicago Rockford International Airport is celebrating 80 years with upcoming competitions + specials on its website and social media.

Airport chief Zack Oakley noted major renovations, growth in cargo and passenger numbers, and plans for further expansion during the anniversary.

TV stations WIFR and WREX will rebrand to Rockford News First this September, unifying local news, weather, and sports under one platform.

Their websites, streaming channels, and social media accounts will shift to the new brand as planned.

Producers of American Pickers are seeking private antique collections for filming in September in Illinois and Iowa (collectors can submit photos and contact info) and ask for examples such as vintage toys and folk art (private collections only).

United Way Rock River Valley has invested $347,805 in 20 local literacy programs across Winnebago County to help children improve reading skills for the 2026 to 2027 program year.

The funding aims to boost early reading levels in the community.

After 408 confirmed and probable Cyclospora cases were reported as of July 21, Rockford shoppers are turning to local produce and avoiding bagged lettuce.

Farmers and vendors now implement extra safety measures (washing, sanitizing, and cold storage) to help keep food safe.

In 2024, Medicaid providers in Rockford billed $28,910 for Temporary Codes services in ZIP code 61103 — an 84.6% increase from 2023.

This rise follows sharp payment growth in past years that highlights shifts in local service use and reimbursement rates.

Winnebago County has launched a new Residential Sharps Disposal program that lets residents pick up sharps containers at five locations (the Health Department, Roscoe Township, Cherry Valley Police, Winnebago Public Library, and Durand).

Officials say proper disposal is available during business hours and plan to expand services soon.

Some of the best women baseball players began a five-day tournament yesterday at Rivets Stadium in Loves Park + finals are set for next year in Rockford.

Two Rockford Park District youth flag football teams (10U and 14U Rockford Bears) are heading to the NFL Flag Championships at Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield, Indiana today through July 26, following their final practice on July 21 at the Clarence Hicks Sports Complex.

A Rockford Evening with Hollywood: Players from A League of Their Own

5-8:30 p.m. — Rockford Woman's Club — Paid entry — Celebrate baseball history and Hollywood with AAGPBL players and cast members in a fun-filled evening.

All White Affair Rockford

4-9 p.m. — Burpee Museum of Natural History — Enjoy an evening with live R&B from ANN MARIE at this elegant summer affair.