Daily
Rockford
Sunday, February 22nd, 2026
Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Sunday, the 22nd of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Loves Park Police and Fire will host a free emergency preparedness session on Feb. 25 at 10 a.m. at 100 Heart Blvd in Loves Park, offering residents tips for planning, safety, and recovery. RSVP is required to ensure enough seating and handouts. Rockford Register Star
- ➤ Mary Lou Cowlishaw was honored on Feb. 20 on her birthday for her dedicated service to the community. Born in Rockford, she spent her life serving local groups — in education, healthcare and welfare — and her legacy continues to inspire neighbors. Rockford Sun
- ➤ Local wedding vendors gathered Saturday at Franchesco’s Ristorante for its annual bridal show, helping stateline couples plan weddings with DJs, florists, photographers and more. Attendees enjoyed champagne, hors d'oeuvres and entries for a $1,000 reception prize — special packages from Klehm Arboretum and Anderson Japanese Gardens were offered. WIFR
- ➤ The Salvation Army hosted its annual Concert for Hope at Veterans Memorial Hall on Saturday in Rockford—this event featured a performance by the Chicago Staff Band and raised funds to support local rental and housing assistance programs. WIFR
- ➤ The Rockford SheVets Chapter marked a decade of support for local women veterans at Veterans Memorial Hall & Museum last Saturday, highlighting its mission to offer a welcoming space for sharing experiences. WIFR
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ A former BP station at the corner of Riverside Boulevard and McFarland Road in Loves Park is set to be replaced by a Dutch Bros Coffee — Rockford Structures is seeking a special-use permit at a Zoning Board meeting on March 12 and aims to open before year’s end. Rock River Current
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Members of the NAACP Rockford Branch and local residents united Saturday, Feb. 21, at the Rockford Public Library to mark a centennial Black History Month celebration. Local performers and community leaders highlighted decades of Black culture and heritage — a tribute to historic efforts and modern civic engagement. WIFR
- ➤ Members of Allen Chapel AME Church (the oldest Black church in Rockford) celebrated Founder’s Day Saturday to honor Richard Allen’s legacy during Black History Month. The event reflected on the church’s historic role in promoting free and inclusive worship. WIFR
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An Evening with Freedy Johnston
8:00 – 10:00 p.m. — The Music Box — From $18.85 — Enjoy the poignant storytelling of acclaimed songwriter Freedy Johnston as he performs live.
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La Fe Norteña Concert
8 PM — Apollo Activity Center — $40.00 + Fees — Enjoy a night of vibrant Norteno music featuring La Fe Norteña and more.
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Charlie Berens Comedy Show
5-8 p.m. — Coronado Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with Emmy-winning comedian and author Charlie Berens.
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Fireside Music with Rockford Symphony Orchestra
11:30 AM – 1:30 PM — Anderson Japanese Gardens — Free entry — Enjoy a cozy atmosphere with live music from Rockford’s premier youth choir while savoring light lunches and pastries.
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52nd Annual Rockford RV, Camping, & Travel Show
2-4 p.m. — Indoor Sports Center — $8 adults, children free — Explore RVs, camping gear, and enjoy live entertainment with unique contests.
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Rock River Valley Model Train Show
10 AM – 5 PM — Harlem High School — $5 admission, kids 12 and under free — Explore vast displays of model trains and supplies while enjoying hourly door prizes.
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Melodies at the Museum
4:00 – 5:30 PM — Rockford Art Museum — $45 — Experience a blend of chamber music and art with insights from RSO musicians and a community reception.
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A Night of Cheap Trick Songs
7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Music Box — From $22.17 — Celebrate the sounds of Rockford's Hall of Fame band with MILES NIELSEN & KELLY covering their classics.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
If everyone is thinking the same thing, then no one is thinking.
~ Ryan Holiday
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