Good morning, Rockford.

The Think Big Food Court will launch its weekly pop-up tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Think Big Accelerator at Provenzano Center, 1311 N.

Main St — the event, postponed from July 19 due to weather, offers local food vendors a free space to share their products until August 30.

Winnebago County Deputies arrested 24-year-old Zachary Payton on July 23 near the 6700 block of Country Lane for allegedly strangling a man during a domestic dispute; after fleeing to a residence on Clover Crest Lane and engaging in a struggle, Payton later forced his way back in—deputies reported visible injuries on the victim and multiple charges against him.

Rockford police arrested 32-year-old Jermey Barfield after stopping his speeding Infiniti SUV near Main Street and Chestnut when officers smelled raw cannabis— a search of his vehicle found a pistol, additional cannabis and a scale, and he now faces charges for weapon possession as a felon, cannabis manufacturing and delivery, and traffic violations.

Four high school robotics teams are set to compete against 29 teams from Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, and Wisconsin on Saturday at Rock Valley College from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.—students will play multiple three-on-three matches—with each game beginning with a 15-second autonomous period before driver control takes over.

The Winnebago County Juvenile Detention Center will expand its mental health services with nearly $2 million from county boards—officials said new therapy spaces, offices and classrooms will be detailed in plans discussed next week.

In June, homes on the west side broke the $200,000 mark for the first time ever with a three-month average sale price of $226,786, and Mayor Tom McNamara said the growth is driven by an increasing population and new investments—like a library and a $96 million infrastructure plan.

Local realtors noted that rising property values are attracting more young families seeking affordable starter homes.

The developer of Colman Yards plans to restart work on the former Barber-Colman complex on South Main and Loomis by combining Phase 1A and 1B to catch up on delays.

They are working with contractors—who have filed nearly $6 million in liens—to clear disputes before construction resumes.

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.

Lola Blu & the Boys Concert

7 PM – 1 AM — Winnebago County Fairgrounds — Tickets available — Experience the captivating blend of country and southern rock with rising star Lola Blu.

RAMP River Run Half Marathon

11 AM — Downtown Rockford — Registration fee required — A spirited half marathon encouraging competition and community fun to cap off the summer.