Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 3rd of March.
Good morning, Rockford.
🏘️ Community
On Monday, March 2, the YWCA Northwestern Illinois celebrated six local women with achievement awards at Hard Rock Live - honoring leaders in business, community, mentorship, professions, promise, and racial justice.
The ceremony also recognized five high school seniors with scholarships for leadership.
Blain’s Farm and Fleet hosted Chick Days on Friday in Rockford, offering residents the chance to welcome baby chicks.
The store provided over 300 chicks available in-store (and online) along with beginner kits and expert advice.
💼 Business
Chipotle Mexican Grill will open a new restaurant in Forest City on Wednesday, Mar.
4 at 5521 E. State Street. The outlet, featuring a drive-thru for online order pick-up, will operate daily from 10:45 a.m. to 10 p.m. and create about 30 jobs.
🎓 Education
Harlem Unit School District 122 enrolled 6,045 students during the 2024-25 school year, a 2.5% drop from last year, according to the Illinois State Board of Education.
Harlem High School led the decline with 1,836 students (the largest enrollment), while other schools experienced varied changes.
🏛️ Government
City Council extended its property tax rebate to cover newly built homes in 2026, approving a three-year extension on Monday, Mar.
2 and waiving fees for permits & water connection. The program helped spur home construction recently and seeks to ease the housing shortage.
Winnebago County Highway Department will hold an open house public hearing for the Madigan Creek Restoration Project Phase I on Mar.
9 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Rockford Public Library East Branch; an overview is set for 5:30 p.m.
📰 Lifestyle
Dharma is an affectionate 2-year-old terrier pit bull mix ready for adoption at Winnebago County Animal Services.
You can meet her today at 4517 N. Main St. in Rockford.
🎉 Rockford Events
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Jesse & Joy Concert
7-10 p.m. — Hard Rock Casino Rockford — Ticket prices vary — Experience the beautiful melodies of Jesse & Joy during their El Despecho Tour.
Rockford IceHogs vs. Iowa Wild Hockey Game
6:30-10:30 p.m. — BMO Center — Free food included — Enjoy an exciting AHL matchup and learn about sports chiropractic while cheering for the IceHogs.
🏠 Rockford Real Estate
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💼 Rockford Job Board
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📣 Rockford Announcements
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