Good morning, Rockford.

Rockford is partnering with AED Essentials and iEmpathize to offer free human trafficking prevention training—featuring a 30-minute tour of a survivor exhibit—at Rockford University.

A special session for healthcare professionals will take place on November 3 while sessions for the general public will run November 4 through 7.

On October 17, snow plow drivers from across Northern Illinois competed in an obstacle course at Loves Park City Hall as the annual Snow Plow Rodeo was organized by the American Public Works Association and the Loves Park Street Department—showcasing 20 years of tradition.

Several vendors set up booths to display snow removal products.

FatherHood United held its Vision Reveal event on October 17 at the Think Big Innovation Center to launch the DADvocate program, which will train over 30 volunteers to help fathers reconnect with their children in Rockford—aiming to reduce father absence and strengthen community support. The nonprofit plans to equip dads with skills and resources that address challenges faced by many single-parent homes.

Residents and business owners in Rockford oppose a proposed Club Car Wash and commercial rezoning near the Auburn Street roundabout because they fear increased traffic and a loss of neighborhood charm — Save Our North End collected over 600 signatures and will speak at the Zoning Board of Appeals meeting at 5:30 p.m. Oct. 21 at City Hall.

A new spot for sushi lovers opened in Loves Park on Oct.

17 when Super Bowl Mongolian Grill and Sushi held a ribbon cutting at a renovated former Hardee’s at 1550 E. Riverside Blvd—offering fried rice, noodles, sushi, sashimi, and an all-you-can-eat Mongolian grill where chefs cook fresh ingredients in front of customers—bringing a style not seen before in the city.

Rockford Public Schools now require all students to wear ID badges during school hours — the new rule is meant to keep unauthorized people out of school buildings.

The district will soon let students scan their badges for attendance — officials expect that full compliance will improve safety across campuses.

Rockford firefighter Jason Morse posted on Facebook a comment calling Fire Department Chief Rebecca Tyo a 'DEI face' and later removed the post and apologized on Women's March Rockford after facing widespread backlash; Tyo, an openly gay 16-year veteran selected from five finalists after a national search, now sees Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara express disappointment—leaving it unclear if Morse will face any disciplinary action.

Federal employees at the Rockford courthouse are not getting paid as the government shutdown reaches its 17th day — the courthouse is operating at 78 percent staffing and workers face serious financial strain.

Chief Judge Virginia Kendall said that while money issues continue, trials and jury sessions are still running.

Lisa Horn, a Belvidere mother of five and a school crossing guard, was diagnosed with breast cancer after a routine mammogram early this year—she received fast care with chemotherapy, surgery, radiation and a hair-sparing treatment.

She is now on antigen therapy and will have surgery soon to lower her risk of ovarian cancer while urging others to get yearly mammograms.

Winnebago County's two colleges spent $391,316 on their 2024 football teams, with Rockford University receiving all the funds which made up 9.6% of their sports spending according to the U.S. Department of Education.

The funding was lower than the previous year's investment.

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.

Beyond the Scoreboard: A Night of Champions

6-9 p.m. — Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront — $12 individual, $50 family of five — Celebrate mental health awareness in sports with MLB champion Ben Zobrist and local leaders.