Good morning, Rockford.

Marshmallow’s HOPE will host its Music for HOPE: 90s Throwback Gala at Hard Rock Casino Rockford at 6 p.m. on Sept.

18 with dancing (90s-inspired gala attire) and a live performance from Too Hype Crew to raise funds for youth mental health care.

Construction on the Charles Street Bike Path began today between Alpine Road and Mulford Road as crews mill and resurface the path—improving ADA ramps while keeping local traffic access.

The project is set to continue through Oct. 9 though weather may affect the schedule.

Students in the 45th Senate District may submit original artwork honoring America's 250th birthday; entries must measure up to 8 by 10 inches and are due by Oct.

30, and winners will see their work displayed at State Sen. Chesney's district office and the Capitol during Veto Session Nov. 17 — 20.

The League of Women Voters of Greater Rockford is hosting Concert For a Cause: Democracy at Maddox Theatre on the Rockford University campus at 7:30 p.m. Sept.

12. Folk musicians Joe Jencks and Mark Dvorak will perform to support voter education and democratic engagement.

In 2025, Winnebago County saw record tourism spending of $549.6 million—a 5% rise from 2024 fueled by events such as the inaugural IRONMAN 70.3 Rockford and strong hotel demand.

Local officials say the gains support jobs + local tax revenue.

Record diesel prices hit northern Illinois farms as harvest nears, with diesel reaching nearly $6 a gallon and one farmer estimating an extra $25,000 in costs this season + farmers are adjusting budgets to manage rising fuel expenses.

Northern Illinois University welcomed 2,301 freshmen and 1,403 transfer students this fall, with a total enrollment of 15,811—marking its third largest freshman class in a decade.

Nearly 80% of freshmen qualify for merit scholarships, reflecting the school's focus on regional students.

Congressman Darin LaHood visited Highland Community College in Freeport yesterday to tour its courses—meeting President Scott, faculty and students while discussing campus upgrades and federal funding plans.

He said the visit reinforces the college’s role in expanding local education opportunities.

Four Rivers and Aqua-Aerobic Systems celebrated a new wastewater treatment system on Wednesday at the Four Rivers facility that uses fewer chemicals to treat 10 million gallons daily.

The locally designed system has drawn global experts for its ability to boost capacity in limited space — a first for Rockford.

Sen. Tammy Duckworth visited Rock Island on Labor Day to hear local residents discuss rising living costs and economic challenges — she stressed that voting is vital for young people and working families and vowed to report their concerns to Washington, D.C.