Good morning, Rockford.

The Center for Sight and Hearing held its annual Dine in the Dark fundraiser at the Radisson Hotel in Rockford to raise awareness of the challenges faced by people with little or no vision.

Guests ate a four-course meal while blindfolded and joined a low vision obstacle course — proceeds will support the center’s low-cost services.

Hundreds of women gathered at Embassy Suites on Thursday as the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Pow(H)er conference to honor local female leaders and present awards such as the Emerging Leader award (given to Paige Gors Limberg).

A panel of regional leaders shared their ideas to help support women's progress in the community.

Comcast awarded two local Boys and Girls Clubs each $10,000 on Nov.

13 to support technology training for kids through the Rockford Digital Opportunity Initiative—helping improve digital access in our community.

Little Caesars opened its first self-service pizza shop in Rockford on Oct.

24 and created 30 new local jobs at its modern restaurant on 3134 11th St. The grand opening will be held tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. —with the first 100 guests receiving a free Classic Pizza—and live music to mark the event.

Rockford residents gathered today at Rusty Taco's ribbon-cutting ceremony at 6905 E State Street — the chain’s first Illinois location — where owner Nick Rufenecht, who returned from Dallas, will host fundraiser nights and engage with the community.

South Beloit High School has turned a covid-era check-in system into an Adopt-A-Senior program that pairs each senior with a mentor—such as a teacher, coach, or counselor—for guidance during their final year.

The school will continue the tradition even as class sizes grow, ensuring students receive personalized support.

Educators across Stateline were honored for the 2026 Golden Apple Teacher nominations.

Lindsay Mertes from Boyland Catholic High School said she felt proud when she received a nomination envelope filled with kind student words - the awards will be held in April.

Students, teachers and union members at state schools asked the board of higher education to tell Governor Pritzker to release over $29 million in college funds held until federal policies become stable.

They also urged the board to back a new plan that would send more money to schools in need — a change that could ease rising costs and prevent job cuts.

Rockford leaders met at District 1 Police Station on Wednesday night to warn that Winnebago County could face a shortage of up to 9,000 affordable homes, risking stability for families, veterans, and young adults aging out of foster care—Mayor Tom McNamara noted plans to create or preserve 6,000 to 9,000 housing units by 2035 using tools like tax rebates, TIF funding and streamlined approvals.

The Leapfrog Group released its Fall 2025 Hospital Safety Grades, showing mixed performance among Rockford hospitals.

OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center maintained a B grade, UW Health SwedishAmerican Hospital dropped from a B to a C, and Mercyhealth Rockton stayed at a D — Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital earned its fifth consecutive A.

The redevelopment of the former Barber-Colman complex in Rockford has faced delays since 2023 as costs increased from $450 million to $600 million due to developer changes and lien issues.

Real estate official Josh Jeffers said most liens have been cleared—only a few remain to be resolved—and plans call for restarting the second phase in early 2026.

Beyond the Scoreboard: A Night of Champions

6-9 p.m. — Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront — $12 individual, $50 family of five — Celebrate mental health awareness in sports with MLB champion Ben Zobrist and local leaders.

An Evening with Nathan Graham & Noah Guthrie

7-10:30 p.m. — The Music Box — $20.11 — Experience soulful melodies blending South Side Blues with Nashville Americana.

An Evening with The Cold Stares

7:30-10:00 p.m. — The Music Box — Starting at $15.08 — Experience the fierce, blistering live show of The Cold Stares, a duo with nearly a decade of world touring.

Babyface Concert

7-10 p.m. — Rockford Casino — Tickets available — Experience a night of soulful music with the legendary Babyface.

2025 NorthPointe Wellness Turkey Trot

2:30-4:00 p.m. — 5605 E Rockton Rd, Roscoe, IL — Registration fee may apply — Participate in a fun-filled annual Turkey Trot event promoting health and community spirit.

Dasher Dash 5K Run/Walk

12 – 4 PM — Beattie Park — Entry fee applies — Celebrate the holiday season with a festive run in downtown Rockford.

An Intimate Evening with David Foster & Katharine McPhee

7-10 p.m. — Rockford Casino — Ticket information unavailable — Enjoy a night of musical brilliance with renowned composer David Foster and soprano Katharine McPhee.

The Nutcracker by Rockford Dance Company

6-7:30 p.m. — Coronado Theatre — $35-67 — Experience the magic of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince in this beloved holiday ballet featuring local talent.

Riverview Inn & Suites Winter Wonderland

11 AM - 5 PM — Riverview Inn & Suites — $10/person at the door — Experience holiday cheer with Santa photos, crafts, and live music.

NLI’s Holiday Open House

4-7 p.m. — Natural Land Institute — Free entry — Celebrate the holidays with cider, snacks, and mingling at NLI's festive headquarters.