Good morning, Rockford.

Rockford native Tammi Dunaway completed a 14-day, 160-mile walk from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C. as part of the We Are America march — which united people of different views — and she will join another walk in the spring to further build community ties.

The city of Rockford will partner with Goodwill of Northern Illinois and Rock Valley College for a diaper drive benefiting the Baby Bank starting October 1.

Families can drop off diapers and pull-ups—at City Hall, police stations, the fire headquarters, and the college—through October 15.

The Better Business Bureau warns Rockford residents of scams in dress rentals and limo services during homecoming season — consumers should verify credentials, read reviews, and confirm all service details before booking.

Six teachers at Guilford High School received classroom activity kits donated by Napleton Subaru Rockford on September 24 — the donation included school supplies and a $500 certificate for extra supplies via Adopt a Classroom.

The owner of the historic Elks Lodge said he is negotiating a sale with a potential buyer as city officials delayed the demolition vote until next month—after a report showed that $420K is needed to repair the building built in 1912.

The downtown property on West Jefferson and North Wyman, which has been vacant for over three decades, will continue to be reviewed as due diligence moves forward.

Five Fire Chief candidates participated in a virtual Q&A last night—sharing their vision for the Rockford Fire Department's future.

Beginning September 24, Rockton Road Bridge traffic shifts with a work zone and open left-turn lane, and on September 26 both Harlem and Rote Road bridges will close with detours posted—drivers are advised to follow posted directions as additional shifts are planned into October during the repairs over I-90 in Winnebago County.

Illinois health officials issued new fall vaccination guidance after federal review processes changed — the updated rules recommend COVID-19 shots for most people, exclude children 2 through 17 without risk factors, and call for flu shots for everyone over 6 months with extra RSV advice for at-risk groups.

The Illinois Department of Public Health recommended that all adults get a COVID-19 shot this fall — a decision that goes against CDC guidelines — and the state order will let local providers offer the vaccine at pharmacies and clinics.

Renowned autism advocate Dr. Temple Grandin visited Rockford for the first time and addressed hundreds at Lockwood Park while promoting her best-selling book Visual Thinking—she explained that visual thinkers often excel in areas like animal care and mechanical tasks, inspiring local families seeking better support for those with autism.

Remedies Renewing Lives in Rockford held its third annual Recovery Day on Wednesday to honor clients fighting addiction with guest speakers, raffles, food, and education—COO Laurie Graciana said the clinic supports over 400 clients and uses creative therapies like yoga and art to help each person on their unique recovery journey.

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.

Broadway And Beyond

7:30-9 p.m. — Coronado Theatre — $35-85 — Experience Broadway hits with star Ben Crawford in an unforgettable evening.

An Evening with Miles & Kelly

7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Music Box — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of music, stories, and improvisation from Miles Nielsen & Kelly Steward.

Herbie Hancock Performance

7-10 p.m. — Rockford Casino — Ticket prices vary — Experience jazz legend Herbie Hancock in an evening of musical mastery.

Rockford Poké Fest

10 a.m.-6 p.m. — Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront — $5 Adult Admission — Celebrate Pokémon with family-friendly activities and fun for all ages.