Daily
Rockford
Thursday, April 23rd, 2026
Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 23rd of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Cahoots Rockford held its first private family-friendly event Tuesday at 314 Prairie St. as it tested arcade games, duckpin bowling, and mini putt before a soft opening early next week and a grand opening in May (the long-vacant facility will soon include a restaurant and event space). Rock River Current
- ➤ Calvary Chapel Rockford has faced turmoil as Pastor Charles Heffelfinger resigned after misconduct allegations emerged from a troubled service on April 12, with members now calling for stronger accountability to rebuild community trust. WIFR
- ➤ Local mechanics advise Rockford drivers to check car fluids, filters, tire pressure and AC recharge before summer travel. Grease Monkey’s district manager urges routine maintenance to help prevent breakdowns during vacation season. WIFR
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Free movies return downtown as the Coronado Theatre launches its Summer Cinema series with showings on Saturday, June 13 for Wicked: For Good and Saturday, July 11 for Zootopia (screenings are at 314 N. Main Street). Admission is free while food and activities require separate payment. WIFR
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ A new report from the National Institute for Early Education Research shows Illinois’ preschool enrollment grew slowly despite Gov. Pritzker’s Smart Start last year — flat state funding has stalled expansion efforts compared with other states. WIFR
- ➤ Two seniors at Keith Country Day School were named Illinois State Scholars today by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission, earning recognition for their academic excellence (one of about 19,000 top performers statewide) as they get ready for college. Rockford Register Star
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Residents who purchased certificates at the Winnebago County Clerk’s Office received free tree seedlings ranging from 12 to 18 inches tall on Wednesday — county officials say each tree planted helps preserve the local environment. WIFR
- ➤ More than 900 Rockford residents signed up for the Earth Day Citywide Cleanup organized by United Way, GoRockford, the Chamber, and the Mayor’s office as part of America’s 250th anniversary. Over 400 volunteers cleaned the Rockford IRONMAN course on Wednesday, and teams will continue cleaning today and Friday. WIFR
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Old River Road will be closed to all traffic just south of Roscoe Road on Friday, Apr. 24 for a culvert replacement as part of its widening project. The road will reopen by day’s end so drivers should choose an alternate route + remain cautious in construction areas. Winnebago County
- ➤ Illinois warns up to 150,000 SNAP recipients may lose food assistance benefits starting May 1 if they do not meet new work requirements, and Gov. Pritzker urges eligible residents to use state tools to check their benefits. Rockford Register Star
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ UW Health advises parents to secure cleaning products, supplies and pesticides out of children’s reach to prevent burns, poisoning and breathing difficulties. Pediatrician Dr. Megan Yanny recommends that children only help with age-appropriate household tasks under close supervision. WIFR
- ➤ The Village of Roscoe will stop its mosquito control program for the 2026 season, which may lead to more mosquitoes this summer. Residents are urged to remove standing water + use EPA-approved repellent to protect against bites. Rockford Register Star
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Crews tore down the former Goldie Floberg Center in Rockton today as the site is being prepared for a future senior housing project. Wesley Willows purchased the property for $400,000 after it was donated and found too costly to repair. WIFR
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Los Huracanes Del Norte Live Concert
7-10 p.m. — Hard Rock Casino Rockford — Ticket prices vary — Experience the lively sounds of Los Huracanes Del Norte in a vibrant setting.
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Rockford Handmade Market - Spring 2026
11 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Prairie Street Brewing Co. — Free entry — Experience a vibrant showcase of local creativity and craftsmanship in the spring market.
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Lonely Teenage Cassette Release Show
8-10 p.m. — The Music Box — $15.08 — Experience an ambient/drone night with the local duo Lonely Teenage and special guests.
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Mother's Day Garden Celebration
12-3 p.m. — Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden — General admission required — Celebrate Mother's Day with floral arrangements, live music, and delicious food in a beautiful garden setting.
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The Wizard of Oz
6 PM — Rockford Woman's Club — Cost not specified — Experience a captivating retelling of the beloved classic as you journey down the yellow brick road.
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Heart Vs Hustle: Dej Loaf and Rob49 Concert
7-10 p.m. — Hard Rock Live - Rockford — Ticket availability varies — Enjoy an electrifying night with Dej Loaf and Rob49 at the Hard Rock Casino.
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