Friday, January 3rd, 2025

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Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 3rd of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Polar Playground at Discovery Town, featuring activities like sock skating and a polar petting zoo, will close on Jan. 5 to make way for new attractions. WIFR
- ➤ Twin boys, Jack and Vern, became the first babies born in 2025 at UW Health SwedishAmerican Hospital in Rockford, marking the arrival of Generation Beta. WIFR
- ➤ Kikifer’s Entrepreneur Academy is seeking funding from The Winnebago County Community Mental Health Board to expand its mental health program and aims to be the first Black-owned organization to receive such support. WIFR
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Jacinto Ramon Albarran Tovar was charged with the sexual assault of a person over 60 and aggravated battery in Rockford. WIFR
- ➤ A 51-year-old Rockford man faces charges including possession of a stolen firearm and cannabis found in his vehicle during a traffic stop. WIFR
- ➤ Four juveniles were apprehended at CherryVale Mall for allegedly stealing a car from Jefferson High School in Rockford. WIFR
- ➤ Cherry Valley Police apprehended 4 individuals in connection with a vehicle theft at CherryVale Mall. WTVO
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ In Winnebago County, a single gas station reported the lowest midgrade gas price at $3.29 per gallon as of the week ending Dec. 28, with average prices in Illinois and predictions suggesting fluctuations. Rockford Sun
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Natural Land Institute acquired two properties near Pecatonica, expanding conservation efforts with an additional 208 acres. Rock River Current
SHOP NEWS
- ➤ TODAY'S SPONSOR We never have to worry about dead batteries and missed calls thanks to this portable power bank that can charge up to five devices at once. The Buy
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Rockford.
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Cole Brandt Live at Rock River Bar & Grill
Cole Brandt will be performing live at the Rock River Bar & Grill located in Rockford Casino.
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Rockford IceHogs vs. Texas Stars Hockey Match
Watch the Rockford IceHogs take on the Texas Stars at the BMO Center in Rockford, IL.
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The Princess Bride: Behind the Scenes with Cary Elwes
Cary Elwes shares insights from his experience on the set of the beloved film 'The Princess Bride' following a screening of the movie.
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Mozart Meets Mahler: An Evening of Classical Masterpieces
This concert features the works of Mozart and Mahler at the Coronado Performing Arts Center in Rockford, IL.
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Candlelight Concert: Tribute to Coldplay & Imagine Dragons
Experience a unique live musical performance featuring the music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons, performed by the Listeso String Quartet in a candlelit setting.
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Chicago Wolves Face Off Against Rockford IceHogs
The Rockford IceHogs will compete against the Chicago Wolves in an exciting hockey match at the BMO Center.
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PRAIRIE SMOKE Concert Featuring Ryan Borens Band
Prairie Smoke, a psychedelic rock band from Rockford, Illinois, will perform an engaging concert at The Music Box, showcasing cosmic riffs and evocative lyrics.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it's not the same river and he's not the same man.
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