Good morning, Rockford.

Harvey Wallbangers held a pop-up event on Friday, Aug.

15, 2025 at 519 E. State St. to preview its drinks-only service before its full opening in early September. Owner Paul Sletten said the venue keeps the look of the former Irish Rose Saloon—giving longtime patrons a familiar space.

A man who threatened WingStop employees with a gun in Rockford was sentenced to 10.5 years in federal prison—Steven Baxter, 40, had a history of illegal firearm possession and was caught with 2 handguns on I-90.

Rev. Matthew Johnson, the senior minister at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Rockford, is leaving his post after 17 years to join the Unitarian Universalist MidAmerica Region and work with congregations across the Midwest.

A departure celebration is planned for Aug. 22 and his final sermon, Keep the Faith, will be held at 10 a.m. on Aug. 24.

Rockford Public Schools kicked off the new school year on Thursday with staff greeting students at the front doors—Flinn Middle School will focus on literacy, numeracy and attendance with weekly falcon time advisory lessons, according to principal Brandie Fago.

The University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford welcomed 58 new students with a White Coat Ceremony on August 15—marking the start of their training to become doctors at the UIC Rockford campus.

The City of Rockford will reduce E.

State to one lane at the intersection of E. State and Alpine today for water main repairs — motorists are advised to use an alternate route.

Mayor Tom McNamara kicked off the 10th annual 815 Day celebrations on August 15 at 8:15 a.m. at the Rockford Public Library by reading a proclamation and urging locals to explore shops, parks, and museums—he also introduced the first Explore Rockford Historical Bus Tour to highlight key city sites.

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.

Greenwich Village Art Fair

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Rockford Art Museum — Free entry — Explore local art, enjoy live music, and engage in children's activities at this vibrant outdoor fair.