Good morning, Rockford.

James Patterson became president of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois on Monday, Aug.

18—he has worked with the nonprofit for over 25 years and took over from Dan Ross.

Fern Shore, a 101-year-old northern Illinois resident who died in 2024, left a legacy gift for Hope for Haitians with 741 shares of McDonald’s stock valued at $220,000 and 32 porcelain dolls to be auctioned—helping fund projects for housing, clean water, and education for Haitian families; any remaining funds will secure a future endowment.

Fern Shore, a retired teacher who lived to 101 and saved small amounts over many years, left Hope for Haitians 741 shares of McDonald’s stock and 32 porcelain dolls valued at $220,000 to help fund clean water, housing, and education projects.

The donation was announced Wednesday at the University Club in Rockford—showing how steady efforts can add up to lasting support.

The Better Business Bureau reports that the illegal online gambling market is nearly four times larger than the legal market at $402 billion compared to $103 billion—recent figures show a widening gap.

The bureau has received almost 200 scam reports and over 10,000 business complaints since 2022 and warns consumers of big payout promises and unclear terms.

The Illinois Tollway will close the Belvidere Road bridge over I-90 for repairs starting Monday, August 25—drivers must use detours on Swanson Road or IL Route 251 until work finishes by September 13.

Rockford completed the EV Readiness Program, clearing the path for more charging stations for electric vehicles in neighborhoods + city officials say this step will boost clean mobility and support a sustainable transportation system.

Rockford reopened a section of West Riverside Boulevard after nearly 500 pothole complaints in 2024—this stretch runs from Central Avenue to Packard Parkway and from Rockton Avenue to Latham Street.

Three other resurfacing projects on Alpine, Mulford and Spring Creek roads will be finished by Labor Day to help nearly 80,000 vehicles travel more smoothly.

Nike Phenom America is holding its first youth basketball camp in Rockford at UW Health Sports Factory on September 20–21.

It will serve male athletes in grades 6–12 and is expected to attract 500 spectators while boosting local hotel stays with an estimated $155,201 impact.

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.

Glow in the Garden

6-9 p.m. — Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens — Cost varies — Celebrate the end of summer with family activities, lanterns, and fun runs.

Rockford Symphony Orchestra Opening Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Coronado Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the vibrant rhythms of Rimsky-Korsakov and Tchaikovsky performed by the RSO and guest guitarist Daniel Bolshoy.