Daily
Rockford
Monday, January 12th, 2026
Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Monday, the 12th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The annual Second Chances Summit returns as a free legal aid event for residents seeking to seal or expunge criminal records. It runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on March 27 at the Nordlof Center in downtown Rockford — a chance for a fresh start. WIFR
- ➤ Dozens gathered Sunday in front of the federal courthouse for a Justice Vigil that honored those affected by recent immigration events & showcased community unity. Local leaders highlighted the diverse turnout that brought Rockford residents together in peaceful reflection. WIFR
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Zion Lutheran Church honored Bonnie Dahlberg and Eliminate Racism 815 with its annual MLK Legacy Award on Sunday — an award established in 2009 by the late Ruthie Fairchild to recognize efforts that reflect Dr. King's commitment to justice and community. WIFR
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Valerie Blaine of DarkSky International will explain the importance of darkness for plants, wildlife and humans on Jan. 15 at Cherry Valley Public Library; the free event begins with socializing at 6 p.m. plus an educational talk at 6:30 p.m. offering practical tips to reduce light pollution. Rockford Register Star
-
Susan Nelson – Soprano Performance
7:30-10:00 p.m. — Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the powerful and sensitive performances of soprano Susan Nelson as she celebrates women composers.
-
Ernie Hendrickson Band Tribute to The Grateful Dead
8-10 p.m. — The Music Box — Ticket info available — Join Ernie Hendrickson Band for a nostalgic tribute to The Grateful Dead.
-
AHL All Star Classic
1-9 p.m. — BMO Center — Ticket prices vary — Cheer on top hockey players as they showcase their skills at this all-star event.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.
~ Friedrich Nietzsche
About Daily Rockford
Welcome to the Daily Rockford, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Rockford, Illinois community. If you like the Daily Rockford, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Rockford.
Advertising Opportunities
Advertising with us will make sure you stay at the top of everyone's mind—in Rockford and across Illinois. You can learn more here. We'll work together to build a custom plan to hit your goals this year.
Alternatively, you can submit events, announcements, real estate listings, and job postings. We'll include them in our newsletter on whichever dates you like.
Community, delivered
Our hyper-local media company activates communities through daily email newsletters that curate the most positive, impactful local news + events – all for free.
Subscribe to Daily Rockford
A free Rockford community newsletter.
- Daily local news
- We curate the most positive, impactful local news + events.
- 6AM City
- A publication of 6AM City, the nation's leading local newsletter-first media network. Nominate your city.
© 6AM City Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy. Terms of Service. Questions? Contact us here
Sitemap: https://dailyrockford.com/sitemap