Good morning, Rockford.

An Illinois family donated 400 Hot Wheels cars to burn patients at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center today in Rockford, honoring the memory of their 8-year-old son (Dedrick Vazquez) who died in September.

The toys were collected at Eichelberger Elementary School and aim to promote burn safety.

Officials shared a list of warming centers in Winnebago and Boone counties to help residents cope with dangerously cold weather this week.

Locations include Carpenter’s Place and Rockford Rescue Mission in Rockford, a gym at Loves Park City Hall, and a public library in Belvidere — the list is subject to change without notice.

Rockford NAACP president George Scott, who led 18 committees against injustice since Nov.

17, 2022, died on Jan. 17. His nephew, NAACP Youth Council head David Scott, paid tribute at downtown Nordlof Center — urging membership growth and a future leadership change.

Rockford City Market will add themed Fridays to its 2026 season from May 15 through Aug.

28, with outdoor hours from 4 to 8:30 p.m. and indoor produce vendors from 2 to 6 p.m.—local applicants can apply online.

Yugen Authentic Japanese opened in Rockford offering ramen, sushi, hibachi and stir-fry noodles with prices from $5 to $23.

The restaurant at 6565 Lexus Drive is open every day (Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Sunday noon to 9 p.m.).

Comfort Keepers is hosting a job fair in Rockford on Wednesday, Jan.

21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 4855 E. State St., Suite 22 to offer on-site interviews for caregiver roles. Attendees must bring a valid driver’s license and car insurance + be ready for a background check.

Annette Carmichael introduced PeerSip, a 40-ounce cup (with customizable lids and one-way check valves) that lets families share drinks without germs.

The Kickstarter to fund production will launch Feb. 10 and aims to bring this innovative tool to local households.

Illinois Farm Bureau is awarding 34 grants to county Farm Bureaus to support nutrient stewardship and pollinator restoration projects; 26 counties will work on nutrient initiatives and 24 will advance pollinator conservation—efforts that boost local farming and environmental care.

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.

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.

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.

Dexter Patterson Meet & Greet and Book Signing

3-7 p.m. — RPL Nordlof Center — Free for general admission; VIP tickets available — Celebrate Black History Month with author Dexter Patterson sharing his passion for birding and signing his new book.

An Evening with Laid Back Country Picker

7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Music Box — Cost not specified — A unique concert blending country rock with a powerful duo performance.