Good morning, Rockford.

Rockford trade unions helped rebuild a Wish Lamp for Nik’s Wish, a nonprofit that grants wishes to young adults fighting cancer—restoring its safety and brightness with new LED lighting, a built-in smoke machine, and a fresh exterior.

The lamp was unveiled Oct. 10 at MercyHealth Sportscore Two and will be on display today at the Nik’s Home Run 5K run/walk as 24 wishes remain to be funded.

Nik’s Wish unveiled its new Wish Lamp Friday morning at MercyHealth Sportscore Two, featuring an updated design with lights, smoke, and work by Northwestern Illinois Building and Construction Trades.

The lamp, a key part of each wish — symbolizing hope and joy for young adults fighting cancer — reflected the nonprofit’s commitment to support local families.

A former Subway restaurant in Machesney Park is set to become home to Sassy Mac Boys’ first store as the popular food truck expands its business—owner Donald Czyzyk announced the change on Facebook, noting the store will open this fall at 10223 N.

2nd Street.

Rockford artist Jessie Prouty launched a Crowdfunder to raise $5,000 so he can turn a former furniture shop on Wallin Ave. into his Artcade, a permanent space for art events and classes—easing the stress of renting commercial space.

Rock Valley College is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month by hosting cultural events that highlight Hispanic music, food — and family traditions, with the Association of Latin American Students led by Natalie Melendez inviting everyone to learn about the heritage.

Professor George Hernandez added that the events aim to build understanding by sharing the community's rich cultural traditions.

Local haunted attractions Fear Fest (which drew 1,500 visitors on its opening weekend) and Sound of Terror feature movie-style setups with safety measures; Fear Fest will remain open until November 3rd while Sound of Terror runs until October 31st.

Both attractions closely monitor visitor safety to ensure a secure and fun experience.

Rockford Christian School announced it will consolidate its two campuses as early as the start of the 2026-27 school year, moving all students to its Upper School campus at 1401 N.

Bell School Road. The school will renovate the campus over the next year to accommodate younger students plus lease its Lower School building to another educational institution.

Flinn Middle School hosted its 4th Annual Youth Story Ledger on Oct 10—over 60 students from Jefferson, Auburn, Marshall, Flinn and West schools shared their personal narratives to promote creativity and courage.

The event aimed to strengthen student-teacher relationships by giving students a clear voice in sharing their experiences.

Medical students from University of Illinois College of Medicine-Rockford attended 'No Harm on the Farm' yesterday at Scheidairy and Mark Bakers farms to learn about agriculture risks such as chemical exposure, loud equipment, and heavy livestock — the 19-year program gave them hands-on insight into rural safety challenges.

Ashley Rogers, a breast cancer survivor, co-founded a support group for young women battling breast cancer in 2019 after finding little support during her treatment—now the group has grown to nearly 200 members and will host a Pinktober party on October 23.

Realtor.com data shows that in July the median home price in Winnebago County dropped to $184,000—down 4.4% from June's $192,500 and slightly higher than last July's $181,000.

City leaders and Urban Equity Properties started a nearly $14 million project to redevelop the historic Chick House Hotel into 18 luxury loft apartments, three retail spaces and a future restaurant in downtown Rockford—developers plan to complete the construction in 2027 while preserving the building's historic charm.

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.

Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Tribute

7-10 p.m. — Rockford Casino — Tickets required — Experience the powerful tribute to Led Zeppelin with Jason Bonham at the Rockford Casino.

Halloween Night with Taboo Blah Blah

8-11 p.m. — The Music Box — Check website for tickets — Enjoy an evening of rhythmic sounds and heartfelt songwriting with local band Taboo Blah Blah.

An Evening with Long-Shot

8-10:30 p.m. — The Music Box — Ticket information not provided — Enjoy an evening of music with Rockford's own twin brothers and their band Long-Shot.

X Bar Bingo Night at Chewy’s

7-9 p.m. — Chewy’s Sports Bar & Grill — Bring your own markers — Enjoy a fun-filled evening of bingo with prizes and delightful dinner specials.

Ninja Kidz Live

6-7:30 p.m. — Coronado Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the excitement of the Ninja Kidz Live show in Rockford's historic theatre.

2025 Annual Diwali Night Celebration

5-9 p.m. — Harlem High School — $15-$35 — Celebrate Diwali with dinner, dancing, performances, and cultural festivities.