Good morning, Rockford.

The 18th annual 'Dancing with the Rockford Stars' fundraiser will be held November 22nd at the Tebala Event Center to raise funds for Family Counseling Services and support local mental health care.

Alderwoman Gabrielle Torina will join the event to share her mental health journey — her participation highlights the community's commitment to wellness.

Carpenter’s Place in Rockford is asking the community for $50,000 to upgrade its security with security glass—buzzer system and cameras after a guest was attacked at knife point.

The shelter will use the funds to improve safety for guests and staff amid challenges from street conflicts and untreated issues.

Two people were taken by ambulance from a crash on I-39 near Baxter Road at 10:25 a.m. on Thursday to Rockford hospitals with critical injuries - first responders from Blackhawk Fire Protection District, New Milford Fire Protection District, Cherry Valley Fire, and the Winnebago County Sheriff quickly arrived at the scene.

Harvey Wallbangers, a new pub, opened Tuesday—Sept.

2 at 519 E. State St. in downtown Rockford and now serves hearty pub food and creative cocktails during a soft opening week. The restaurant fills a historic space that once housed a popular saloon and will expand its hours later.

Rockford police arrested Avery Jones on September 2 for allegedly firing multiple shots inside the District Bar & Grill and later condemned his home — where officers found handgun magazines, a cannabis grow operation, and living hazards — while Nicole Jones faces charges for obstructing a police officer.

The Natural Land Institute acquired 20.5 acres of land along north Blair Road near the Pecatonica River—protecting an old growth forest and bird nesting habitat.

The purchase from a long-time local family preserves the rural character of the area.

Rockford Public Works closed the eastbound curb lane on 1400 Charles Street—located at 10th Street—for manhole repairs that started on September 4; traffic controls are in place and motorists should take alternate routes.

The repairs are expected to finish by the end of today if weather permits.

Rockford City Council met Sept.

2 and reviewed a detailed agenda covering proclamations, petitions, committee reports on development agreements, zoning changes, public works contracts, and appointments—issues that will guide future city decisions.

Mercyhealth said it will keep 500 employees at its Rockton Avenue clinic even as Pastor Melvin Brown and his wife Sheila Brown signed a purchase agreement for the former hospital facility.

The company will continue running its clinic, REACT hangar, and EMS training center while local officials worry new owners may face high upkeep costs — an issue that could affect our community.

Local pastor and his wife, Melvin and Shelia Brown, have signed an agreement to buy the former Rockford Memorial Hospital at 2400 N.

Rockton Ave, with plans for the facility still to be announced. Mayor Tom McNamara has warned that the new owners may face about $1.5 million each year in maintenance costs—raising concerns about its future impact on the community.

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.

Trail Mix Off-Road Duathlon and Mountain Bike Race

2-8 p.m. — Atwood Park Trail System — Registration required — Compete in duathlon and mountain bike races while enjoying food and drinks from local vendors.