Friday, February 14th, 2025

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Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 14th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Made for Rockford is hosting its second New Resident Mixer with free food, drinks, and live art on Feb. 17 at The Top Rooftop Bar & Lounge, aimed at helping newcomers connect and settle in Rockford. WIFR
- ➤ Prairie Street Brewing Company employees swiftly rescued a DoorDash driver whose car submerged in the Rock River, demonstrating quick action and resourcefulness. WIFR
- ➤ Rockford continues to beautify the city with 'Forest City Beautiful,' a program enhancing public spaces with art and landscaping, now extended for six more years and receiving an additional $25,000 annually. WTVO
- ➤ The decision not to route the I-90 Tollway through downtown Rockford in the 1950s led to significant economic and developmental shifts to the city's east side, while proposed highway projects to connect the city center faced various challenges and were ultimately not realized. WTVO
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Damajae McKenzie, wanted for a non-fatal shooting in Rockford, has been arrested by U.S. Marshals in Calumet City. WIFR
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Joe Coots, a beloved actor from Winnebago known for his roles from Starlight Theater to Broadway, is remembered for his warmth and the positive impact he had on those around him. WIFR
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ In Rockford's 5th Ward, three Democratic candidates discuss policies and community improvement goals ahead of the February 25 primary election, where the winner is likely to secure the city council seat. WIFR
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Rockford-area restaurants gear up for Valentine's Day, their busiest holiday, with advanced planning and reservations recommended. WTVO
SHOP NEWS
- ➤ TODAY'S SPONSOR We never have to worry about dead batteries and missed calls thanks to this portable power bank that can charge up to five devices at once. The Buy
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Rockford.
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The Fiction We Create Event
The Fiction We Create is a musical event happening at Screw City Tavern in Rockford that features various performances starting at 8 PM.
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29th Annual Stateline Fruit and Vegetable Growers Conference
The Stateline Fruit and Vegetable Growers Conference provides essential information and resources for local fruit and vegetable growers to improve their practices and ensure a successful growing season.
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Warren Haynes Live at Coronado Theatre
GRAMMY Award-winning artist Warren Haynes, known for his remarkable guitar skills, will perform live at the Coronado Theatre.
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Rockford IceHogs vs. Iowa Wild Hockey Game
The Rockford IceHogs face off against the Iowa Wild in a thrilling hockey match at the BMO Center.
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Cole Brandt Live Performance
Cole Brandt, an accomplished musician from the Rockford area, will showcase a blend of pop, rock, jazz, classical acoustic, and electronic dance music.
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An Evening with Stillhouse Junkies
Stillhouse Junkies will perform live at The Music Box, offering an engaging musical experience for attendees.
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Lee Brice Live Concert
Country artist Lee Brice, known for significant hits and multi-platinum records, will perform live at the Coronado Theatre.
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PaleoFest 2025 - General Admission
PaleoFest at the Burpee Museum of Natural History offers a weekend of engaging paleontology activities including lectures, workshops, and exhibits, suitable for all ages.
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Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire
The event showcases fan-favorite Hot Wheels Monster Trucks including Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, and HW 5-Alarm in an exciting live performance.
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New Attitudes AA Meeting
This weekly Alcoholics Anonymous meeting provides resources and support for individuals seeking recovery from alcohol addiction in Rockford.
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.

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Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Rockford.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Better to be too early and have to try again, than be too late and have to catch up.
~ Paul Graham
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