Good morning, Rockford.

A new article in Rockford examined 10 local topics sparking heated debate—issues such as crime rates, property taxes, and housing that challenge local residents and leaders.

The piece also looked at community concerns—like school funding, historic landmarks, and transportation—to show mixed opinions across the city.

Master gardener Barbara Flores and her husband Frank established a 32-bed organic vegetable garden at Rock River Valley Food Pantry—transforming a dusty parking lot into a source of fresh produce for those in need.

The garden offers vegetables including green beans, tomatoes and cucumbers and is open from 1 to 3:30 p.m.—Monday through Friday.

Rockford’s Veterans Drop-In Center at 1539 S.

4th Street will reopen Friday, October 3 and host a celebration with dinner for veterans from 4:30—6 p.m. Following a temporary closure for cleaning, reorganization, and staffing changes, the center will offer two meals a day, clothing, toiletries, housing assistance and other support to veterans.

Russell Williams—celebrating 30 years at Rockford Burger King—attended a special event at the 3342 S.

Alpine Rd. location with family, friends and co-workers to mark his milestone. He rides the city bus daily and remains excited about serving customers after starting his career in 1995.

At Northern Illinois University Rockford, the Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence celebrated 20 years of supporting local nonprofits on Sept.

26 with community leaders and guests attending the event — marking decades of service to local organizations.

Local bird-watchers are enjoying the fall season as migratory birds like sandhill cranes fly south through Rockford woods, drawing both longtime observers and newcomers.

A local bird club will meet on Oct. 3 at Nygren Wetland at 7:30 a.m.—the session costs $5 and offers guided field trips around the region.

Students and staff at Loves Park Elementary were evacuated Friday morning when a rooftop machine produced smoke that set off a fire alarm; the fire department responded at 10:08 a.m.—two classrooms were affected as classes were relocated while the school day continued.

A renewable natural gas plant in Dixon opened in June and converts landfill methane into clean energy—reducing carbon emissions by 61,000 metric tons.

The project will hold an open house on October 1 at 1214 Bataan Road—inviting visitors to tour the facility and meet energy officials.

Lane closures will begin next week on I-90 near the Kishwaukee River for bridge repair work including pavement, structural, and joint fixes.

Eastbound traffic will shift to two lanes on the left shoulder until repairs are complete — construction signage will be posted in advance.

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.