Good morning, Rockford.

Two Rockford organizations—the Better Business Bureau and the Rockford Public Library—have teamed up to launch a free forum series to help locals learn how to avoid scams and spot reliable businesses.

The next forum will be held at the library on Sept. 11 from 10 a.m. to noon.

The Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office in Rockford is investigating a crash at Clikeman and Elmwood roads where a First Student bus and a pick-up took minor damage and at least one child was released to a parent—drivers are urged to avoid the area as it is the second school bus crash within a week.

Doc’s Diner in Loves Park was damaged by a fire on Wednesday afternoon when crews working on the ventilation system sparked flames at 3:30 p.m. on Aug.

20—firefighters put out the blaze with no injuries, and the diner said it will reopen after repairs are finished.

Velvet Robot Coffee Lab will close its Roscoe shop on September 7 — it started in May last year.

The shop will keep serving customers from its Rockford location.

RAVE has hosted 165 shows over the past year at venues including the BMO Center and Coronado Theatre—only four of those took place at Davis Park.

City council approved the park's redevelopment, which will add a larger stage, playground, skate park, six art pieces, and a revamped river walk, with completion targeted for June 2026.

On Wednesday, Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi visited Rockford Public Library’s East Branch — part of his summer listening tour — and declared his Senate bid after Senator Durbin's retirement announcement.

He said his campaign would focus on economic issues — including unmasking ICE agents and banning mid-decade redistricting — and on increasing funding for technical education.

The Rockford Park District is seeking a new naming partner for the UW Health Sports Factory—this sports facility has hosted major events and helped drive significant economic impact.

Businesses must submit proposals by 2 p.m. on September 17 via DemandStar as part of an expanded partnership that will also include several other park district venues.

The Rockford Park District is searching for a new naming rights partner to replace UW Health at the downtown Sports Factory located at 305 S.

Madison St.—The district is accepting proposals through Sept. 17 and expects the new sponsor to boost local sports tourism and economic activity.

Dogs in Rockford are getting physical therapy to help them move without pain.

A certified canine rehabilitation therapist in South Beloit is using stretches and exercises to assist an 8-year-old labradoodle — the treatment is gaining attention from local pet owners.

At Henry Dorrbaker’s Pub & Play in Beloit, duckpin bowling is drawing local fans as the venue—open since November 2024—is the only duckpin alley in Stateline and challenges bowlers with its smaller ball and shorter lanes.

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.