Good morning, Rockford.

Residents in Parkland have raised safety concerns over the vacant Provena Cor Mariae building at 3330 Maria Linden Drive after noticing broken windows, shattered glass and late-night suspicious activity.

Neighbors contacted police and urged officials to investigate the damage promptly.

Rockford residents can receive free admission to the Winnebago County Fair on Aug.

19 by donating at least two non-expired canned goods, while Rockford Rescue Mission will collect 150 bottles of detergent for 815 Day on Aug. 15 — each drive aims to meet critical needs for meals and clean clothing.

Living Well Center of Northern Illinois plans to open a senior center at the former Fifth Third Bank space at 1111 S.

Alpine Road. City Council will review a $100,000 annual funding request, with the center set to open by winter & serve as a hub for healthy aging.

Local poet Paula Coulahan, a retired Rockford Public Schools teacher (mentor at Welsh Elementary), is featured in Poetically Yours this week, a series showcasing northern Illinois poets.

Her work highlights a commitment to enriching local arts.

F&W Mobile Repair co-owners Juan Figueroa and Garrick Wixson will resume auto mechanics classes in September through the YouthBuild program by Comprehensive Community Solutions to help local teens gain valuable skills and confidence.

Rockford Public Schools will bring back final exams for high school students in the 2026-27 school year; exams and alternative assessments will count for 10 percent of the semester grade, with first semester finals set for Dec.

16-18 and second semester finals for May 19-21, 2027 (bus and lunch schedules will adjust).

Rockford Public Schools District 205 has rescheduled Meet Your Bus Driver Day from Aug.

10 to Tuesday, Aug. 11 — families will receive bus route updates on Friday, Aug. 7.

State lawmakers authorized the return of about 1,500 acres of Shabbona Lake State Park to the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, ending nearly 200 years of disputed ownership.

Federal approval is pending — Chairman Joseph Rupnick said the park will remain open to all.

Chandra Smith, cared for as a frightened teen by nurse Ellen Henry, became a nurse inspired by that kindness at UW Health SwedishAmerican Hospital.

Reuniting with Ellen during the delivery of her second baby, their full-circle moment shows how compassionate care can shape lives.

UW Health offers back-to-school safety tips for families by recommending longer routes with sidewalks and crossing guards, suggesting practice walks and proper helmet use for biking+ teaching children to stop, look, and wait before crossing to stay safe on their commute.