Daily
Rockford
Wednesday, March 11th, 2026
Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 11th of March.
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ Emergency crews (from Byron, Rockford, Pecatonica, Winnebago, and German Valley) responded just before 5:45 p.m. today to reports of chemical exposure at Byron Nuclear Plant, and officials confirmed there were no deaths. WIFR
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ GoRockford announced on Tuesday, March 2 that 34 restaurants received nearly $428K in final relief grants to help offset higher unemployment taxes from the pandemic. The program has given a total of $1.4M in aid to 53 local eateries since it began in May 2024. Rock River Current
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Rockford University President Lynott honored Sunil for his strong commitment to education and the vital role he played in guiding the campus through tough times. His legacy continues to inspire the university and local community. Rockford University
- ➤ United Way Rock River Valley announced a community book drive to collect 2,000 books for pre-kindergarten to third graders through April 10, with drop-offs at local sites. A free book fair will take place at their Main St. office on May 14 & lets families browse titles at no cost. Rock River Current
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Winnebago County Health Administrator Dr. Sandra Martell visited Springfield to support House Bill 4579, which proposes boosting the Local Health Protection Grant from $20 M to $30 M for fiscal year 2027. The measure aims to improve disease investigation, vaccination, and inspections (efforts to boost public health services). WIFR
- ➤ Voters in Winnebago County will decide on a 1% sales tax for schools on March 17. The measure is expected to generate about $40 million annually for local schools & fund construction, maintenance and safety services. Rockford Register Star
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Illinois observes Problem Gambling Awareness Month by expanding outreach and treatment services to support residents with gambling problems. Gov. Pritzker and state partners will light downtown buildings teal and host an art contest for recovery — help resources are offered statewide. Rockford Register Star
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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.
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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.
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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.
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.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The quality of your life is proportional to the quality of your habits.
~ James Clear
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