Good morning, Rockford.

Former WIFR meteorologist Mark Henderson has launched his Weather Hub on Facebook to give daily local forecasts in a relaxed style—he now has more than 22,000 followers and 100,000 views per day.

He formed Henderson Weather Consulting LLC in early July and is taking on sponsors as he continues to serve our community while searching for a full-time job.

The Joe Rice Memorial Car Show celebrated its third annual event on Sunday, Aug.

10 — uniting organ donor recipients with a Winnebago family while funding a scholarship for high school seniors studying trades. Organizer Leslie Hopp said the event honors Joe Rice’s legacy and keeps his generous spirit alive.

The Winnebago County Fair will run from Aug.

13 to Aug. 17 with gates opening at 11 a.m. on Aug. 13 and 14 and at 10 a.m. on Aug. 15, 16, and 17 while special offers include free admission for children 8 and under and discounted rates for veterans and seniors on Aug. 13. Key attractions include the Fair Queen and Junior Miss Pageant at 6 p.m. on Aug. 13 and a demolition derby at 2 p.m. on Aug. 17—other events feature truck races, tractor pulls, and rodeo performances.

Rockford Barbell hosted its annual Cars & Coffee fundraiser for kids at Byron’s Sweatbean Cafe and Bakery—proceeds will support its free after-school programs for local students.

Although rain on Sunday canceled the car show—child-friendly activities like face painting, a bounce house and an obstacle course enlivened the event.

Hard Rock Casino Rockford nears its three millionth guest milestone since opening in November 2021 and is celebrating with a Unity Rewards giveaway that runs nightly at 10 p.m. from Aug.

8 to Aug. 29, where one guest will win 1 million points + 20 others will each win 100,000 points.

The BBB warned that pet adoption scams using fake online listings and AI videos are rising and can put victims at risk — they advise residents to check business profiles and verify pets in person or via video call before paying.

Gov. JB Pritzker signed a law that will require annual mental health screenings for students in grades three through 12 starting in the 2027 to 2028 school year.

Critics claim the mandate may lead to false positives—parents can opt their children out of the tests.

The Illinois Department of Transportation will begin bridge repairs on westbound U.S. 20 near Rockford on Aug.

12 — drivers will face a one-lane reduction until mid-October.

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.

Cruise Night 2025

5-8 p.m. — Historic Attractions — Free entry — Experience cool cars and groovy music along with delicious food at this fun-filled community event.