Hello Rockford! Stay connected with the latest updates from around town. Let's dive in! ☀️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: ICONIC REUNION - Music of Neil Diamond, Roy Orbison, Patsy Cline, John Denver, and MORE and 8 more events.
Today's riddle: Why do fish live in salt water? 🤔 (Answer below!)
1. Rockford schools chief Larry Huff hosts community talk (rrstar.com) — Rockford families can meet new Superintendent Larry Huff and discuss district priorities at a community conversation Thursday, Aug. 20, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Guilford High School. You'll hear Huff's vision for Rockford Public Schools, ask questions, and share concerns directly with district leadership.
2. Rockford police use Flock camera to make hit-and-run arrest (rrstar.com) — Rockford police used a Flock license plate reader to identify and arrest a local man after a hit-and-run that seriously injured a 15-year-old girl near Auburn and Bluefield on Aug. 18. Officers say the teen was hospitalized with multiple injuries, and the suspect now faces several charges. Residents with information can contact Rockford Police or submit anonymous tips by text.
3. Local drivers in shock over Illinois tollway rate hike (mystateline.com) — Rockford-area drivers face a sharp toll increase at the Belvidere I-90 plaza starting Jan. 1, 2027, with I-PASS rates jumping from $1.50 to $2.40. The hike is part of a $26.5 billion Illinois Tollway plan to rebuild roads and bridges, which officials say is needed to maintain the system without tax funding.
4. Broadway businesses identify signage and permit hurdles during Rockford workshop (mystateline.com) — Rockford business owners along the Broadway corridor met with city staff this week to air frustrations over signage rules, permits, and other hurdles hurting their storefronts. Participants also raised concerns about safety, cleanliness, and finding skilled workers. The city is asking more Broadway businesses to share feedback so it can fine-tune support programs and a future business association.
5. Vintage RC planes take flight at Rockford event (rrstar.com) — Rock Valley RC Flyers will host their free Warbirds and Classics show in Rockford on Sept. 5, with a Sept. 6 rain date, at 3215 Harrison Road. Spectators can watch vintage and military-style radio-controlled aircraft fly all day, while pilots from across the Midwest show off turbine, gas, and electric models. Boy Scout Troop 32 will sell food and drinks on-site.
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Ok Rockford! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: Pepper makes them sneeze (Thank you Karla H. for sending it in!)
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