Daily
Rockford
Monday, January 5th, 2026
Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Monday, the 5th of January.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Rockford businesses can apply for five-year forgivable loans up to $25,000 until Jan. 31 for equipment, salaries and operations; the City’s Business Advancement Program will forgive the loans after five years if businesses meet requirements (location, zoning and licensing compliance) and remain operational. Rockford Register Star
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Illinois farmers now face the invasive weed Asian copperleaf, which was confirmed in a Stephenson County cornfield post-harvest. Experts advise growers to scout their fields before planting and during the season to catch the weed early. Rockford Register Star
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Rockford City Council is considering a $4M forgivable loan to support Urban Equity Properties' $45.6M redevelopment of the former News Tower at 99 E. State St. The project will create 80 loft-style apartments, a restaurant and commercial spaces — work is set to begin in 2027 and finish in 2029. Rockford Register Star
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The fool wonders, the wise man asks.
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