Good morning, Rockford.

Visitors can join hands-on events at Gretta’s Goats, a 25-acre farm at (498 N Farwell Bridge Rd.), to hike with goats, build bouquets from on-site flowers and learn cheese- and soap-making.

The classes aim to connect community members with farm life while offering interactive experiences.

Byron Fire crews advise boaters on Rock River this Labor Day weekend to slow down and carry required safety gear, as shifting water levels create hazards from sandbars and debris (life jackets are crucial for children).

Boater Robert Misitano urges avoiding alcohol while navigating.

Brad Hopkins took over as CEO of Rockford Rescue Mission on Sept.

3 after longtime leader Sherry Pitney became president emeritus. The 62-year-old nonprofit has served the community by addressing homelessness, addiction and crisis.

Loves Park officials celebrated the first season of adaptive baseball programs at the new Home Base Sports Fields (Darryl F.

Lindberg Park) on Aug. 24; Buddy Baseball and All-Stars Baseball offered accessible opportunities for athletes while city leaders praised the Rockford Park District for creating an inclusive venue.

September marks Suicide Prevention Month – a campaign in Rockford to promote mental health support and help individuals in crisis, with experts noting that talking openly can save lives while community resources include the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and Better Health Illinois hotline at 1-866-329-4701.

Prostate Cancer Awareness month leads UW Health Northern Illinois to urge men to get screened early as Dr Tarita Thomas recommends PSA tests starting at age 45 to catch cancer early and expand treatment options while watching for symptoms like slow urinary stream, weakness and weight loss.

Pediatric dietitian Shirley Poole from UW Health recommends adding more fiber-rich foods—such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes—to kids’ meals to support digestion and prevent future health issues.

She advises that parents add five to a child’s age to calculate daily fiber needs and increase water intake.