Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 31st of December.
Good morning, Rockford.
🏘️ Community
Julie Yurko, CEO of Northern Illinois Food Bank, was named Food Bank Leader of the Year today by Food Bank News for her innovative hunger relief work.
Her team delivered 93M meals through a network of over 900 pantries since 2014—highlighting her lasting impact on the community.
💼 Business
Rockford shoppers are warned to verify store return policies as many retailers now impose stricter deadlines and fees for holiday exchanges.
Dennis Horton from the BBB Rockford Regional Office issued these reminders on Dec. 31, noting return windows are often 14 to 30 days (check receipts before returning).
🎭 Culture
J.R. Kortman Center for Design in downtown Rockford celebrates 40 years at the historic Barloga building on North Main Street, hosting a ‘Year 40’ exhibition.
A desk-style 2026 calendar featuring 25 artworks will be available through Jan. 10, 2026.
📰 Economy
Everett Butzine will lead business expansion for the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce starting Jan.
1. He moves from Madison and his role aims to boost local growth by strengthening industry ties & attracting new investments.
🌲 Environment
Residents can recycle Christmas trees when Rock River Disposal collects trees Jan.
5-15, 2026 if decorations are removed and trees over four feet are cut, while KNIB provides 12 drop-off sites in Winnebago & Stephenson Counties from Jan. 1-15 to turn trees into mulch at 523 S. Central Avenue.
🏛️ Government
Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs returned $100K in unclaimed funds from the ICash program to food pantries statewide after federal food aid was cut, with one donation of $5,500 given to 4 K.I.D.S Sake in the southwest suburbs on Dec.
18. The move helped pantries prepare for increased holiday demand.
🎉 Rockford Events
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🏠 Rockford Real Estate
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💼 Rockford Job Board
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📣 Rockford Announcements
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