Good morning, Rockford.

Rosie Marie Buchert, a 66-year-old Rockford resident, has been living on the streets with her longtime boyfriend since early November after their home was sold with little notice — a decision that has left them struggling to find shelter.

Local agencies report that the growing crisis among older adults is pushing more seniors to seek help as affordable housing options become scarce.

Thanksgiving drivers on Illinois highways are facing heavy traffic as more than 4.1 million residents begin their holiday trips, with travelers urged to remain patient amid rush-hour conditions.

The Illinois Department of Transportation advises drivers to prepare for colder weather—keeping emergency kits ready and ensuring vehicles have full tanks and proper supplies for delays.

Volunteers at Rockford Rescue Mission handed out free Thanksgiving meals on Wednesday, serving turkey, stuffing, and pie; the annual event—since 1964—allowed families to share a meal.

Rockford retailers warn that shoppers are holding back as low consumer sentiment and rising costs threaten holiday sales.

For example, B Jones will be open tonight from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. for a special sale — shop owners say that weaker spending now risks full-year support for small businesses.

Winnebago County Sheriff Gary Caruana provided free safe rides from 9:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. on November 26 to help partygoers avoid DUIs and alcohol-related injuries—UW Health’s Dr. Philip Carlson-Dexter warned that even moderate drinking can impair driving and rides were limited to getting patrons home.

The Under Rocks team expressed gratitude for the fine food and drink in northern Illinois while revisiting their favorite culinary adventures in a recent feature—highlighting unique dishes such as aspic.

Rockford city officials have announced road closures and parking changes for holiday events starting at 5 a.m. on Nov.

29. Key streets on the Stroll on State route — Jefferson, Church, Chestnut/Walnut, and 3rd — will be closed with detours in place and parked cars to be towed, and additional closures near Main Street and the Jefferson Street Bridge will affect event access.

ComEd has opened its Emergency Operation Center and deployed extra crews and equipment after strong winds hit on November 26, and the company says heavy snow expected on November 29 will require swift power restoration—residents are urged to report any downed power lines immediately.

UW Health has shared gift-buying tips for parents to help choose safe and age-appropriate toys—child life specialist Julia Clark advised checking age recommendations and safety labels to prevent choking hazards.

She urged parents to remove recalled toys and register new ones for recall alerts.

Christmas tree farms are guiding families on choosing a fresh tree by advising them to check needle retention on Fraser Fir, Balsam Fir, and Scots Pine and to test freshness by feeling the branches.

Experts recommend trimming the tree’s base for better water absorption—ensuring it remains a long-lasting holiday centerpiece.

Former Rockford Metro high school stars will compete in several sports games on Nov.

29, with matchups featuring teams like UW La Crosse Eagles and Monmouth Fighting Scots scheduled at various times starting at 12 p.m.—local athletes from around the area will play for their former schools.

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.

Sleigh Bar: A Holiday Pop-Up Experience

4-11 p.m. — Rockford City Market — Cost info not provided — Sip on festive cocktails and soak in the Christmas decor for a fun holiday season celebration.