Hello Rockford! Stay connected with the latest updates from around town. Let's dive in! ☀️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Woodsong Summer Concert - Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute and 6 more events.
Today's riddle: What is the difference between a jeweler and a jailer? 🤔 (Answer below!)
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1. The Rockford Public Library is helping some adults achieve something that helps them excel further (northernpublicradio.org) — Rockford adults without a high school diploma can now earn an accredited credential for free through the Rockford Public Library's donor-funded Adult Online High School, which has already graduated more than 300 people. Led by educator Leon Smith, the self-paced program pairs coursework with intensive coaching and local career partnerships, helping parents boost both their own prospects and their children's success.
2. New Illinois law expands Rockford's domestic violence resource model statewide (wifr.com) — Rockford's Family Peace Center model just became the blueprint for a new Illinois law, meaning similar one-stop support hubs for domestic violence survivors can now open statewide. Local leaders say the unanimously passed Family Justice Centers Act recognizes Rockford's survivor-led approach and could expand coordinated services like legal help and rape crisis support far beyond the city.
3. Airbus looks for new manufacturing partners in Rockford (wifr.com) — Airbus just brought its Supplier Day to Rockford, courting local manufacturers for long-term partnerships to build aircraft parts and potentially add high-quality jobs. With Rockford touted as a top U.S. aerospace cluster, local companies met one-on-one with Airbus leaders to explore joining the company's massive production pipeline for planes, helicopters, and defense projects.
4. Rockford holds send-off for Mayor Tom McNamara as he transitions to a new role (mystateline.com) — Rockford residents are preparing for a leadership change as Mayor Tom McNamara steps down after nine years to take a nonprofit role, with Alderwoman Janessa Neal serving as interim mayor until spring elections. Hundreds turned out to thank McNamara for work on community development, Rockford Promise, and the Family Peace Center, which supporters say strengthened support for students and survivors.
5. Enjoy A Fun Event with The Whole Family and Help Children in Need! (mystateline.com) — Rockford-area families are invited to the 4th annual 2026 Bikers Day on September 19 at 100 Heart Blvd in Loves Park, running from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Organized by Rockford Area Riders and the Wolf Pack Social Club, the fundraiser packs in bike and car shows, games, kids' activities, and live music to support Lurie Children's Hospital and local families.
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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: A jeweler sells watches and a jailer watches cells. (Thank you Jean D. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!
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