Good morning, Rockford.

The former Morris Kennedy School (vacant for years) at 3218 11th St. will be demolished this fall to build a new Culver’s restaurant on south Rockford, set to open a dual-lane drive-thru in spring 2027; Jimmy and Nichole Smith expect the project to create about 70 jobs.

Rockford's 23-WIFR and 13-WREX announced plans to merge their digital news coverage under the new brand Rockford News First in September, with websites, apps and social media channels shifting soon while most on-air news slots remain unchanged.

The Poetically Yours series showcased Rockford’s Welsh elementary school student Conner Douglas, whose poem "The Death of My Caterpillar" won third place in the Youth Poetry Contest for 2025, and his work is supported by Paula Coulahan’s guidance of fourth and fifth graders for the Bulldog Beat at his school.

Rockford's Poetically Yours features Welsh elementary school student Ka'Miyah Garcia this week after she received an honorable mention in the Rockford Writers' Guild Youth Poetry Contest (award given in 2025) as Paula Coulahan leads fourth and fifth graders on the Bulldog Beat newspaper, showcasing local creative talent.

Rockford education leaders will expand the Rockford Promise program by establishing a direct transfer track that lets students move from Rock Valley College to Rockford University without losing momentum.

Transfer applicants can apply (applications due by Aug. 1) for the fall semester.

Rockford Public Schools held a small summer graduation ceremony Friday morning at Jefferson High School for students who completed their requirements later in the year.

School leaders said the intimate event recognized each graduate individually.

Durand Township roads are set for seal coating work starting Tuesday, July 28 and finishing by Friday, July 31, weather permitting — drivers should expect intermittent closures and use alternate routes.

UW Health nurse practitioner Dhara Mehta explains that controlling diabetes during pregnancy helps lower risks such as congenital anomalies and neonatal complications — she advises balanced nutrition, moderate exercise, and proper weight gain to support both mother and baby.

Former AAGPBL players and cast from A League of Their Own met 200 fans on Friday in Rockford at a luncheon celebrating women’s baseball history — the event offered autographs, photos and stories and is part of a week featuring the Women’s Baseball World Cup and Baseball For All Nationals.

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.