Daily
Rockford
Friday, January 16th, 2026
Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 16th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Natural Land Institute hosts Dark Sky Bonfire with s'mores, stargazing and a trail walk to celebrate a new 80-acre addition that brings Pecatonica Ridge Preserve to 160 protected acres. The free event runs from 4 to 7 p.m. Jan. 21 at 14992 Doty Road and requires registration by Jan. 20. Rockford Register Star
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Rockford Art Deli (402 E State St.) is offering new Chicago Bears-themed shirts and a peek into its screen-printing process, so fans can show their team pride. The new prints arrive ahead of the Bears' Divisional playoff game on Sunday, Jan. 18. WIFR
- ➤ Following the national State of American Business Address in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, local business owners shared their views on rising costs and shifting consumer habits. They said that local support — a key factor in overcoming challenges — will drive their success throughout the year. WIFR
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Maze Books published its third project, a haiku book by local poets, last month in Rockford. Owner Dave Pedersen said over 200 submissions from nearly 70 poets were gathered by the bookstore, which entered publishing more than a year ago. Northern Public Radio
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ For high school seniors in Rockford, local scholarship programs have upcoming deadlines from Jan. 23 to April 3. Mercyhealth and other groups are offering awards for students pursuing health care, human services and more, including Rockford Promise for those attending local colleges. WIFR
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Illinois has extended enrollment for 2026 health coverage through Get Covered Illinois until Jan. 31 so residents will have extra time to compare plans and get free help from over 140 navigators (with assistance from 9,000 brokers). Rockford Register Star
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Galentine's Pop-Up
4-8 p.m. — Rockford City Market — Free entry — Celebrate friendship with themed drinks and local vendors for a fun Galentine's get-together.
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Valentine's Day Ski-Plane Fly-In
5 PM — Midtown District — Free entry — Enjoy a winter cookout with lots of fun and ski planes at Cottonwood Airport.
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
Well done is better than well said.
~ Benjamin Franklin
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