Good morning, Rockford.

Food pantries in Rockford and nearby areas are helping families amid reduced SNAP benefits due to the government shutdown—local pantries list their open times and locations for residents in need.

Residents can refer to the guide for details on weekday and weekend hours in Winnebago and surrounding counties.

The UW Health sports factory hosts an inaugural table tennis tournament benefiting Rosecrance today at 5 p.m.—community members including WIFR Morning Anchor Mike Garrigan will compete to raise funds for new recreational equipment at the Rosecrance Harrison campus.

At the Burpee Museum, researchers Dr. Lindsay Zanno and Dr. James Napoli studied Jane’s bones, once seen as those of a young T-Rex, and now say she is a new species called Nanotyrannus lethaeus.

Jane is the only known one of her kind — her discovery will lead to more studies on how dinosaurs grew and changed.

Rockford Public Works is reducing traffic lanes on S Church between Chestnut and Green streets for water line repairs that began Wednesday and is closing a section of Pepper Drive between Alpine Road and Cinnamon Lane today for hydrant replacement — Rural Street will be closed from Hillsdale to North Prospect on Nov 10 for watermain work with detours posted and work expected to finish by day’s end.

Rockford city officials urged low-income residents facing rising energy costs to apply for help through LIHEAP, which makes direct payments to utility companies.

An outreach event was held today at Northwest Community Center & a second event will be held tomorrow at 9:00 a.m. at the same location.

Machesney Park provided $7,000 to Helping Hands Pantry after SNAP benefits were halted during a government shutdown.

The Village Board presented the check at Village Hall on Monday—supporting food access for over 400 families each month.

Local law enforcement agencies in Rockford are honoring Officer Jaimie Cox’s memory eight years after he died on November 5 during a traffic stop when a suspect tried to flee + his legacy is celebrated through community events and a foundation that supports first responders.

Former high school athletes from the Rockford Metro area will compete on Saturday, Nov.

8, in a series of matchups scheduled between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. as players from schools like Carroll, North Boone, and Rockford Regents + several others aim to showcase their skills in future contests.

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.

2025 NorthPointe Wellness Turkey Trot

2:30-4:00 p.m. — 5605 E Rockton Rd, Roscoe, IL — Registration fee may apply — Participate in a fun-filled annual Turkey Trot event promoting health and community spirit.

Dasher Dash 5K Run/Walk

12 – 4 PM — Beattie Park — Entry fee applies — Celebrate the holiday season with a festive run in downtown Rockford.

An Intimate Evening with David Foster & Katharine McPhee

7-10 p.m. — Rockford Casino — Ticket information unavailable — Enjoy a night of musical brilliance with renowned composer David Foster and soprano Katharine McPhee.

The Nutcracker by Rockford Dance Company

6-7:30 p.m. — Coronado Theatre — $35-67 — Experience the magic of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince in this beloved holiday ballet featuring local talent.