Wednesday, December 18th, 2024

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Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 18th of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ After 33 years, Len and Donna Roach retire from LDR Cleaning and Restoration, passing the leadership to the next generation. WIFR
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ A former Rockford School District official and his wife are accused of embezzling over $160,000 from his elderly mother. WTVO
- ➤ Patrick Pursley, acquitted of a 1993 murder after spending nearly 25 years in jail, will receive a $5 million settlement from the city of Rockford. WTVO
- ➤ Timothy Gulley, Jr, 39, received an 11-year prison sentence for the predatory sexual assault of a child under 13 in Rockford, Illinois. WTVO
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The Rockford Symphony Orchestra's annual Holiday Pops show, featuring over 200 local choir members and conducted by Kevin Stites, offers family-friendly performances on Dec. 21 and 22, with tickets available for purchase. WIFR
- ➤ The West Side Show Room, to conclude its 10th anniversary, is staging 'Psycho Beach Party,' a replays of its inaugural camp comedy, from Dec. 27 through Jan. 12, offering free tickets via its public access program. Rock River Current
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ A group of local entrepreneurs is set to open multiple Scooter's Coffee locations in the Rockford area, contributing to the expansion of the fast-growing drive-thru coffee chain. Rock River Current
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ In the 2023-24 school year, 78.2% of Winnebago County's public high school students did not meet grade-level standards on the English portion of the SAT. Rockford Sun
SHOP NEWS
- ➤ TODAY'S SPONSOR We never have to worry about dead batteries and missed calls thanks to this portable power bank that can charge up to five devices at once. The Buy
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Rockford.
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Durand-Pecatonica High School will join the Big Northern Conference for football and soccer starting the 2026-2027 school year, replacing Rockford Christian and aiming to ensure consistent game opportunities. WIFR
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Donuts, Coffee, and Year-End Review
This event features an informal year-in-review presentation by Executive Director Alex Mills, accompanied by donuts and coffee at Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden.
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Rockford Symphony Orchestra: Holiday Pops Concert with Kevin Stites
This festive concert features beloved holiday music directed by Kevin Stites, along with performances by local choirs and a special appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus.
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Christmas Eve Eve Services
All are welcome to join us as at 5:30 or 7pm we celebrate the birth of Jesus in an event called “Silent Night.“ Songs like Little Drummer Boy and other holiday favorites will be done by our Rockin’ Band, with Candles & Silent Night to close.
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Christmas Eve Eve Services
All are welcome to join us as at 5:30 or 7pm we celebrate the birth of Jesus in an event called “Silent Night.“ Songs like Little Drummer Boy and other holiday favorites will be done by our Rockin’ Band, with Candles & Silent Night to close.
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The Harlem Globetrotters Live in Rockford
The world-renowned Harlem Globetrotters will perform their iconic basketball tricks and entertaining antics at the BMO Center.
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Cole Brandt Live at Rock River Bar & Grill
Cole Brandt will be performing live at the Rock River Bar & Grill located in Rockford Casino.
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Rockford IceHogs vs. Texas Stars Hockey Match
Watch the Rockford IceHogs take on the Texas Stars at the BMO Center in Rockford, IL.
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The Princess Bride: Behind the Scenes with Cary Elwes
Cary Elwes shares insights from his experience on the set of the beloved film 'The Princess Bride' following a screening of the movie.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.

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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.
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Reveal the authorAbout Daily Rockford
Welcome to the Daily Rockford, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Rockford, Illinois community. If you like the Daily Rockford, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Rockford.
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