Good morning, Rockford.

Apple orchards in the area will open soon as Curran’s Orchard starts its fall season on Aug.

16 and Edwards Apple Orchard in Poplar Grove and its West location in Winnebago will open on Aug. 22 — Valley Orchard in Cherry Valley has not announced its start date.

Rockford Public Library’s Board of Trustees selected life-long resident Anthony Cortez as its new executive director, succeeding Lynn Stainbrook who led the library since 2014.

He will build on his experience to expand services and community partnerships—following the recent grand opening of the library’s new Main Library.

Edwards Apple Orchard at 7601 Centerville Road in Poplar Grove and its West branch in Winnebago will open for the season on August 22nd.

Visitors will enjoy apple picking—along with cider, donuts, pumpkins, and raspberries—in a historic setting.

Uber announced Tuesday its new Hope Rides initiative that will provide free rides for domestic violence survivors to the Family Peace Center at 315 N Main Street in Rockford — the program partners with Alliance for HOPE International and will cover rides to 15 Family Justice Centers statewide to help survivors reach safety and support.

Comprehensive Community Solutions received a $100,000 donation from Nicor Illinois Community Investment on Wednesday to hire an on-site behavioral therapist for its Alive and Well program that offers free mental health resources and workforce training — the funds are expected to boost local workforce development as Nicor has invested nearly $2 million in the area since 2021.

Rockford has improved nearly 900 road locations this summer as part of its largest capital improvement program in history worth $54,286,044, with work on roads, bridges, and neighborhood streets.

City officials say construction will end by Labor Day — drivers are already planning their trips to avoid delays.

Rockford has requested bids to demolish the historic Elks Lodge No. 64 at 210 W.

Jefferson St because the building is unsafe due to years of neglect—bids open Aug 14. The City Council will review the lowest bid while the demolition case continues with a status hearing set for Aug 28.

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.

Dinner on the Dock with Random AF

5-10 p.m. — Prairie Street Brewing Co. — Varied food and drink costs — Enjoy high-energy covers from the vibrant band Random AF while dining on the riverfront.

Ginuwine Concert

7-10 PM — Hard Rock Live - Rockford — Tickets from $316 — Experience a night of R&B hits with Ginuwine live in concert.

Dockside Live featuring Honey Cellar

6-9 p.m. — Prairie Street Brewing Co. — Free entry — Unwind with live folk rock sounds and scenic riverfront views.

Dinner on the Dock featuring Flannel Daze

5-10 p.m. — Prairie Street Brewing Co. — Food and drinks available — Enjoy live 90s rock and grunge hits while dining riverside in a lively atmosphere.