Daily
Rockford
Friday, August 8th, 2025
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Rockford.
Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 8th of August.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Renovations are underway at Rockford Park District’s inclusive playground Paulyground at Alpine Park on 950 S. Alpine Road. The upgrade includes wheelchair-accessible equipment, sensory zones, a calming play area and a swing designed for all children—funded in part by a $600,000 grant—with further park improvements planned. Rockford Register Star
- ➤ Rockford’s annual Female Energy Festival returns on August 9 at UW Sports Factory and will give more than 100 businesses owned by women a chance to show ideas and products including home goods, beauty items and fashion. The event features the Healthy Girl Market with fresh produce, baked goods & holistic care products along with food trucks and live music, and admission is $5 at the door. WIFR
- ➤ Comprehensive Community Solutions received a $100,000 grant on August 6 from Nicor Illinois Community Investment—this award will support its work in workforce development, sustainable wages, and affordable housing in Rockford. WIFR
- ➤ Tony Cortez took over as executive director of the Rockford Public Library on August 6th and plans to meet community needs by reaching out to local groups. He succeeded longtime director Lynn Stainbrook—who retired after decades of service—and will work to make the library a welcoming third space for residents to gather. Rock River Current
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse in Rockford Crossings (6636 E State Street) will close on September 20th. The store sold brands such as Adidas, Converse, New Balance, and Vans and is part of Designer Brands Inc that operates over 500 stores. WTVO
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ A man was critically injured after he was trapped under a vehicle in a Rochelle driveway on August 6 during a reported domestic dispute and was flown to a Rockford hospital for further care, authorities said. WIFR
SHOP NEWS
- ➤ TODAY'S SPONSOR We never have to worry about dead batteries and missed calls thanks to this portable power bank that can charge up to five devices at once. The Buy
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Rockford.
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Today, Rockford hosts the 2025 NAFA World Series at MercyHealth Sportscore One where nearly 40 teams from 30 states and international players compete in fastpitch softball. Sports officials report that the tournament has already generated over $500,000 in economic impact and more events are planned—such as the Men’s Masters World Series East in September and a Women’s Baseball World Cup next year. WIFR
-
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.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
Stay Connected Anywhere with This Powerful Portable Charger
Never worry about dead batteries or missed calls again. This high-capacity, portable power bank is a game-changer for anyone who relies on their devices throughout the day. With the ability to charge up to five devices at once, it’s perfect for families, professionals, and travelers alike.
Its compact design makes it easy to carry, while its powerful output ensures your phone, tablet, earbuds, and more stay fully charged no matter where you are. Say goodbye to low-battery anxiety and hello to uninterrupted productivity.
Whether you’re commuting, on vacation, or working remotely, this charger is your ultimate power solution. Stay connected, stay powered, and never miss a moment.
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Rockford.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The first draft of anything is garbage.
Know who said this? Send us an email!
Reveal the authorAbout Daily Rockford
Welcome to the Daily Rockford, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Rockford, Illinois community. If you like the Daily Rockford, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Rockford.
Advertising Opportunities
Advertising with us will make sure you stay at the top of everyone's mind—in Rockford and across Illinois. You can learn more here. We'll work together to build a custom plan to hit your goals this year.
Alternatively, you can submit events, announcements, real estate listings, and job postings. We'll include them in our newsletter on whichever dates you like.
Community, delivered
Our hyper-local media company activates communities through daily email newsletters that curate the most positive, impactful local news + events – all for free.
Subscribe to Daily Rockford
A free Rockford community newsletter.
- Daily local news
- We curate the most positive, impactful local news + events.
- 6AM City
- A publication of 6AM City, the nation's leading local newsletter-first media network. Nominate your city.
© 6AM City Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy. Terms of Service. Questions? Contact us here
Sitemap: https://dailyrockford.com/sitemap