Daily
Rockford
Friday, September 19th, 2025
Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 19th of September.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The 2025 40 Under 40 honorees have been announced in Rockford—240 young professionals from various fields were recognized for their work and community service. The list highlights individuals under 40 who distinguished themselves in their careers and local volunteer efforts. Rockford Register Star
- ➤ Rockford’s Edgebrook Farmer’s Market lets residents meet local farmers and get recipe ideas—longtime vendor Jonathan Van Laar has been a participant for 16 years. The market runs every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 1639 N Alpine Rd and will hold its final event on Oct. 29. WTVO
- ➤ A Rockford couple started I Rescued Patisserie & Bakery to raise funds for local shelter animals by donating $3 from every $4 sugar cookie sale—offering cookies inspired by adoptable pets at farmers markets and online. The bakery has been open for two years and plans to expand its impact as a nonprofit in the future. WTVO
- ➤ The Veterans Drop-In Center in Rockford is temporarily closed for restructuring after its executive director left — the center will work with current volunteers to coordinate meal deliveries and continue supporting veterans. WTVO
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Embassy Suites in downtown Rockford has rebranded its lower level restaurant from The Tower Kitchen & Bar to Culinary Underground—featuring a refreshed menu with twists on nostalgic favorites and art-filled decor. The grand opening on September 18th showcased a 12-foot sock monkey painting by local artist Brett Whitacre and vintage photos that distinguish it from the hotel’s rooftop bar. Rockford Register Star
- ➤ The Greater Rockford Chamber invites community members to nominate women whose leadership and vision have positively impacted Rockford for its Women-in-Business awards. Honorees will be celebrated at the annual Pow(H)her Conference on November 13 at the Embassy Suites Rockford Riverfront and nominations are due by September 30. WIFR
- ➤ Bob Whalen invented Pet Loader over 20 years ago in a garage to help his dog get into vehicles, and he now hand-builds the product in Rockford for use with cars and boats—sourcing parts from Illinois, Wisconsin, and Ohio—while planning future growth to create more jobs. The business continues to expand internationally and emphasizes quality with every unit made by hand. WTVO
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Illinois Department of Transportation said at the Nordlof Center public meeting that Rockford will see passenger rail service restart by the end of 2027 with work set to begin in early 2026. The plan includes a new station south of Cedar Street—track upgrades will help connect Rockford to Chicago. Rock River Current
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Shatter Our Silence held its ninth annual fundraiser in Rockford to raise awareness about young adult suicide and mental health struggles. Survivor Kirsten Edmunds shared her fight against negative voices and a past eating disorder—while founder Kevin Polkey said planning for the tenth annual dinner is underway. WTVO
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Rockford Symphony Orchestra Opening Concert
7:30-9 p.m. — Coronado Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the vibrant rhythms of Rimsky-Korsakov and Tchaikovsky performed by the RSO and guest guitarist Daniel Bolshoy.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The secret to getting ahead is getting started.
~ Mark Twain
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