Good morning, Rockford.

On Friday, Mar. 13, about 350 power outages affected over 11,000 customers (Winnebago, Boone, Stephenson, and DeKalb counties) in Northern Illinois, prompting ComEd to update its outage status online.

Last Friday, winds reached 60 MPH, causing local traveling food vendors to close for safety.

Owners said that high winds posed risks with grill ignition and propane leaks - a concern driving extra caution - and they now plan to monitor weather trends - part of their safety measures - for future operations.

After severe storms earlier this week, State Farm received over 10,000 claims, including 8,000 in Illinois, for hail damage.

The insurer opened a customer care site in Bradley (1260 N. Bradley Blvd.) and advises policyholders to file claims and keep repair receipts while avoiding contractor scams.

Local poet Anna Jollymore, whose book Words for Becoming debuted in 2025, appears in Poetically Yours featuring Northern Illinois talent.

Now a Rockford resident, she says the city's vibrant arts scene inspires her to blend myth with everyday life.

Rockford Public Schools is set to cut 110 positions to address a $15M budget deficit while keeping classroom teaching roles intact.

Details and a chance for affected staff to transfer to teaching jobs will be discussed at the board meeting on Tuesday, Mar. 24.

Voters in Winnebago County will decide on a 1% sales tax for school facility upgrades and security on March 17, which is expected to bring in around $40 million annually based on student enrollment.

Local leaders debate the tax's impact on small businesses & call for clear accountability measures.

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.