Good morning, Rockford.

Rockford priest Father William Wentink recalled being called to serve at ground zero on 9/11 when a squad car stopped him to report the attack.

He later joined FBI chaplain rotations to help first responders—honoring the bravery that still inspires his community.

Rockford police, firefighters, and other community members gathered yesterday at the Winnebago County 9/11 Emergency Responders Memorial—placing a wreath near steel beams from the World Trade Center to honor nearly 3,000 lives lost in the 2001 terror attacks.

Interim Fire Chief Brian Carlson said the ceremony marked both the tragedy of that day and the resilience of those who came together afterward.

Local experts recalled that 9/11 united the nation by rallying people against a common enemy, but political differences and online misinformation have since deepened divisions.

Local party leaders warned that rising hate and heated rhetoric are risking community unity—renewed efforts to rebuild trust are needed.

The Northern Illinois Food Bank moved into the old K-Mart on Sandy Hollow and still needs more volunteers to serve 1,000 people daily during its National Day of Service for 9/11—on September 11, about 100 people helped at this location and 300 supported nearby sites.

Hard Rock Casino Rockford was named in 13 categories by an international gaming magazine, winning four first-place finishes in awards for table games, dealers, promotions and high-limit rooms—a recognition of its strong performance after opening a year ago.

Colorwave Graphics in Loves Park has marked over two decades of business success as it grew from a home-based shop in 2002 into a 55-hundred square foot family-run operation that makes custom signs, murals, and decals — the team handles a variety of projects and has adapted to challenges like COVID with innovative equipment — and owner Mike Lombardo leads the company with a strong focus on quality work.

Organizers have cancelled two events celebrating Hispanic culture in Rockford due to safety concerns over immigration rhetoric—Fiestas Patrias Rockford set for Sept.

14 at Levings Lake and the Community Parade & Festival planned for Sept. 20 have been cancelled.

The three-member Fire and Police Commission announced on Wednesday its five finalists for Rockford fire chief—four of whom are current in-house candidates—with a virtual Q&A set for Sept.

23 and an in-person meet and greet on Oct. 6 at Kresge Hall. The final chief will be chosen this fall.

Crews began resurfacing work on N.

Main Street from Vernon to Auburn street on Thursday, and the southbound lane shifted to the outside. Drivers are advised to use caution during the project—delays may continue as work proceeds.

On Thursday, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem warned that groups like the Rockford Rapid Response Team, which document immigration operations, might face legal risks—despite the First Amendment protecting public documentation.

Brandon Lee from the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant & Refugee Rights said community members fill these groups and questioned if the warning meant that legal action could be taken.

OSF Sleep in Rockford received accreditation from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine—marking its 25th year of quality sleep care—and joined 25 centers nationwide.

UI Health's family medicine resident said that as kids returned to school, cases of hand, foot and mouth disease increased because the virus easily spreads through close contact.

She advised parents to keep children home when sick+ practice regular hand-washing and use supportive care like Tylenol or Ibuprofen to ease fever and pain.

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.

Lola Blu & the Boys Live Performance

8 PM – 12 AM — Grand Avenue Pub — Check local listings for ticket details — Experience Lola Blu's captivating blend of country and southern rock at this lively pub venue.

Rock River Valley Video Game Convention

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Riverview Inn & Suites — Ticket prices vary — Experience a day of gaming fun at the Rockford area's premier video game convention.