Daily
Rockford
Thursday, January 22nd, 2026
Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 22nd of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Rockford will celebrate its 50th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 14 at 3 p.m., with a route from 7th Street and 4th Avenue to 200 Prairie St., and most groups can register free until March 7 before joining Paddyfest at Prairie Street Brewing Co. at 4 p.m. Rockford Register Star
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Two reports by the JEC-Minority showed Illinois families paid an average of $1,781 more in living costs in 2025, with groceries, housing, and transportation expenses climbing — affecting local budgets. The study used data from key economic agencies to capture rising costs across the region. WIFR
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Highland Community College president Chris Kuberski led major improvements during the pandemic while strengthening student services and local engagement — her recent receipt of the Stephenson County Community Champion award highlights her efforts. She aims to leave Highland better than she found it and nurture a supportive college culture. Rockford Register Star
- ➤ Dr. Trevonne Thompson has been named regional dean for the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford and will take over from Dr. Alex Stagnaro-Green on March 16 — pending board approval. He currently serves as associate dean for admissions with a strong background in emergency medicine and toxicology. Rock River Current
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center oncologist Dr. Iftekhar Ahmad said cancer survival rates improved as the American Cancer Society reported a 70% 5-year rate for patients diagnosed from 2015 to 2021—evidence of better treatments in Rockford. WIFR
- ➤ Pearson Plumbing & Heating advises homeowners to inspect furnaces and clear any blocked PVC pipes ahead of a cold snap expected this weekend. The company offers 24-hour emergency service and emphasizes regular maintenance to prevent system failures during extreme cold. WIFR
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Rockford native Shawn Cox plans to transform the former Lithuanian Club at 716 Indiana Ave into The Copper Lantern, a modern event space for celebrations following a series of permit approvals; City Council may vote Feb. 2 while renovations, including ADA accessibility + landscaping, aim to start for summer events. Rock River Current
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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.
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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.
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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.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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Reveal the authorAbout Daily Rockford
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