Good morning, Rockford.

A local couple is converting an old industrial building at 505 N.

Madison St. into Cahoots Rockford—a 52,000-square-foot family entertainment center with arcade games, mini putt, duckpin bowling, a restaurant, and spaces for special events that will open in early 2026. The project aims to add a new destination downtown and boost local family activities.

Four former workers bought the city's oldest factory and relaunched it as Rockford Brake Manufacturing with plans to restart operations in November.

The new firm will add 150 jobs — union reps have questioned recall rights — while company leaders say the plant now runs under different rules.

YMCA Camp Winnebago and the Rotary Club of Rockford are teaming up in Rotary Academy’s 24th year to build leadership skills in 220 Rockford Public Schools eighth graders — the students take part in crate-stacking and will face a high ropes course in April to boost teamwork and self-confidence. The program also includes monthly activities like etiquette training, community service, and college visits, concluding with a dinner at Embassy Suites where progress is celebrated.

Rockford residents and community leaders met Monday morning to voice concerns that federal food assistance may be suspended, which could delay November SNAP payments and force families to face tough choices.

Local officials warn that if funding is not renewed, food banks and nonprofits will brace for a surge in demand.

OSF HealthCare Foundation received the Angel Award for its long-time support of Carpenter’s Place—a nonprofit center that helps people facing homelessness by offering care, education and job training.

The award was given during the center’s 25th annual fundraiser as OSF continues its commitment to community outreach.

Data from Zumper shows Rockford apartment listings increased 3% from last September's median of $967 to around $1,000 in September while median rents fell 5% from last month's $1,050.

One-bedroom rents rose 11% year-over-year, and two-bedroom rents declined slightly.

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.

An Evening with Nathan Graham & Noah Guthrie

7-10:30 p.m. — The Music Box — $20.11 — Experience soulful melodies blending South Side Blues with Nashville Americana.

An Evening with The Cold Stares

7:30-10:00 p.m. — The Music Box — Starting at $15.08 — Experience the fierce, blistering live show of The Cold Stares, a duo with nearly a decade of world touring.

Babyface Concert

7-10 p.m. — Rockford Casino — Tickets available — Experience a night of soulful music with the legendary Babyface.