Good morning, Rockford.

Rockford police arrested Adonis Smith—42—for allegedly sexually abusing a woman and committing domestic battery after she forced him out of her Auburn Street apartment as witnesses said he touched her inappropriately while she slept.

Four Rockford residents and one from Beloit were indicted for allegedly defrauding over $1 million in federal pandemic benefits+ the charges include multiple counts of mail and wire fraud.

Rockford authorities arrested Jerickoe Simmons (38) on the 1100 block of Elm Street and Cornealious Wells (49) on the 300 block of Avon Street on July 24 for allegedly selling fentanyl and other drugs; deputies seized five pounds of cocaine, two pounds of cocaine, half a pound of heroin, ammunition and cash during an investigation sparked by reports from May.

The Teachers’ Lounge radio show featured local educators Maurice McDavid, the new principal of Dr. Leroy A.

Mitchell Elementary School (opening in fall), and Lissette Jacobson, Huntley’s curriculum director who released a book (Your Words are Fire) on culturally-responsive teaching. Rockford STEM teacher Stacy Wallace from Thurgood Marshall School shared how her Project Lead the Way classes use flight simulators and solar backpacks to help a Ugandan refugee camp while she works toward her pilot’s license.

U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen will hold a town hall meeting at Chicago Rockford International Airport on July 28 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.—doors open at 5 p.m. with limited seating—as local groups host the event to answer residents’ questions about his work in Washington D.C.

Rockford’s Expanded Rehab Assistance Program will reopen for new applications from Aug.

4 to 8 and offer eligible homeowners up to $60,000 in forgivable mortgage loans for necessary repairs. The program now prioritizes lower-income families and a town hall on July 29 will provide additional details — interested residents should check eligibility online.

Rockford has opened applications for a new fire chief to lead the city’s Fire Department—candidates must have five years in a leadership role and submit a cover letter, résumé, and online questionnaire by August 22.

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.