Good morning, Rockford.

Karen Tilly is a finalist for the 2025 Excalibur award—she is recognized for her lifetime of community service through work with nonprofits and volunteer efforts.

Susie and Phil Smalley (the owners) announced the sale of Rockford’s Skateland roller rink after 33 years of operation; the business will change hands on December 1 (no new owner has been named).

Panda Express has submitted plans to build a restaurant with a drive-thru on a vacant lot at 7280 E.

Riverside Blvd next to Starbucks in Loves Park. The proposal is in the city’s approval process and a City Council vote is expected next month — it adds to the busy development along the growth corridor — as the area continues to attract new businesses.

Today, Sleigh Bar debuts at Rockford City Market at 116 N.

Madison St.—this pop-up Christmas bar offers seasonal cocktails, wine, mocktails, and food from Bop Bop Korean BBQ for those 21 and older. It will operate Friday and Saturday evenings from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. until Jan. 3 as a cashless venue.

Illinois awarded nearly $10 million in grants to 47 small businesses through the Small Business Capital Grant Program—helping them upgrade infrastructure and expand operations—and Rockford's Ripe Life Juice Company received over $114,000 to support its improvements.

Administrators at Boylan Catholic High School said on November 21 that police began investigating a concerning social media post showing troubling images that may affect school safety— the involved student has been removed from classes while authorities continue the inquiry.

Poetically Yours featured Rockford poet Wren Medina, whose work has appeared in local anthologies, and shared an excerpt from his poem 'Field of Dreams' that recalls details like a tube TV and vintage uniforms—highlighting local artistic memories.

Recent data from the Illinois State Board of Education shows that 20% of 17,903 Winnebago County students passed the math portion of the IAR in the 2023—24 school year—marking a 2.5% rise from last year.

The report also shows notable achievement gaps in math scores among racial and ethnic groups.

Illinois eliminated nearly $430 million in medical debt through its statewide relief program that helped about 357,800 residents since its launch in 2024.

State officials said the program, which forgave qualifying debts through partnerships with hospitals, is set to receive $15 million from the FY26 state budget to continue reducing financial hardship.

Students and staff gathered today at the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford for National Rural Health Day to discuss rural healthcare challenges.

A panel of experts addressed provider shortages and Rural Health Hero Awards were given to Illinois Senator Dick Durbin, Freeport Health Network, and Jacksonville Memorial Hospital — focusing on training future rural physician leaders.

Rockford Fire Department is urging residents to follow fire safety rules this holiday season as about 50% (half) of residential fires start when cooking is left unattended.

The department advised using timers, remote thermometers and proper cleaning of appliances while suggesting monthly tests of smoke detectors to reduce risks.

Local nursing students may soon get lower loan amounts if nursing loses its professional degree status—Laura Monahan from UIC Rockford said the rule will cut yearly funding caps and may worsen the existing shortage of healthcare workers.

The change is set to go through a public comment period in 2026.

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.

2025 Excalibur & Excelsior Awards Celebration

6-8 p.m. — Prairie Street Brewing Co. — Free entry — Celebrate community service excellence at the Annual Excalibur & Excelsior Award Ceremony.

An Evening with Kevin Gordon

8-10 p.m. — The Music Box — From $15.08 — Enjoy the soulful sounds of Louisiana's own Kevin Gordon as he shares stories through his songs.

A Christmas Carol Performance

7:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. — Cheek Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magical story of Ebenezer Scrooge brought to life through a one-man play by Greg Oliver Bodine.

Holiday Pops - Rockford Symphony Orchestra

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Coronado Theatre — $35-85 — A festive performance featuring nearly 200 community performers, perfect for getting into the holiday spirit.