Good morning, Rockford.

Seven graduates marked a key milestone when they walked the stage at Rockford Rescue Mission on October 14 for the annual Restoration Celebration (which supports recovery from addiction, homelessness, and trauma) and one graduate, Don Thompson, said the ceremony was a turning point (he is now working toward finishing his high school diploma at Rock Valley College).

Roxy Carmichael Boutique reopened yesterday in Edgebrook under new owner Noelle Tulley, who bought the store from retiring owner Christine LaMantia.

Tulley updated the boutique's clothing, accessories and home decor—keeping the trusted brand alive for Rockford shoppers.

Stellantis announced Tuesday that it will invest $600-million to reopen the Belvidere Assembly plant in 2027 — creating 3,300 jobs and building Jeep Compass and Cherokee models — as part of a $13-billion plan to upgrade plants across the nation.

Rockford freshmen attended the RPS 205 Academy Expo where they met with over 100 local business representatives — interactive demonstrations helped them explore career options and plan their high school courses — marking the 14th annual event.

Illinois is launching its own health insurance exchange, Get Covered Illinois, in 2026 to gain control over costs amid uncertain federal subsidies.

Open enrollment begins November 1 and the new program targets individuals without workplace plans—self-employed and early retirees may see about $130 higher monthly premiums if Congress does not act—while offering service in English and Spanish.

Rockford resident Jacqueline Hawkins survived lung cancer diagnosed on September 11th, 2001, breast cancer in 2020, and kidney cancer last year and said her strong faith helped her fight the challenges as she urged others to keep going.

On October 15, UW Health observed Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day to honor babies lost too soon and to support grieving families.

The hospital also runs a monthly support group—'How to Catch a Falling Star'—that meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Women and Children’s Hospital to help parents cope with their loss.

The University of Illinois College of Medicine will receive a $2.5 million grant from the federal Health Resources and Services Administration to train 34 family medicine residents annually in street medicine to serve the unhoused in Rockford, rural northern Illinois and Chicago.

The five-year project is led by Rhonda Verzal and James Swakow and will partner with community and faith groups—helping strengthen care for those with limited access to traditional healthcare.

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.