Positive News, Stories, & Rockford Buzz Polls

It’s officially the first day of Fall! Did you feel your spooky heart come alive this morning when you woke up? I know I did. It probably should have been accompanied by some clouds and maybe a slight drizzle. But, who can argue with a beautiful sunny day?Anyway.It’s fall in Rockford! Because we are lucky enough to live in the Midwest, there are plenty of things to do in the spirit of Autumn! This year it’s a bit different because of COVID-19 rules. There are no haunted houses. But, many places are still open. Plus, a lot of them are outdoors! Here are some ideas for you!OrchardsApple Orchards are a must! They are still open with a few restrictions and new guidelines in place. But, you can get your delicious donuts and some more goodies to take home as well!You’ve got a few options:Curran’s Orchard (6385 Kilburn Ave, Rockford, IL 61101)Edwards Orchard (7061 Centerville Rd, Poplar Grove, IL 61065)Edwards Apple Orchard West (8218 Cemetery Rd, Winnebago, IL 61088)Valley Orchard (811 E State St, Cherry Valley, IL 61016)HikingOne of my favorite activities is hiking. During the fall, there are so many beautiful colors to see here in the Rockford area. You’re in luck because we have a lot of hiking trails here in the area! We talked about them on the podcast recently. You can check that out here.Coffee!Obviously, another one of my top suggestions is to grab some delicious Fall drinks from our local coffee shops. They’ve all got new flavors for the season. I'd suggest trying them all ;) PaddlesportsRocktown Adventures has some paddle trips coming up. If you want to stay out on the water, I suggest looking into those!Fall PhotosDuring the month of October, Anderson Japanese Gardens in waiving their photo session fees on Wednesdays. You can get some gorgeous pictures taken in the Gardens with all of the fall colors for just the price of admission.These are just a few ideas. I know that this season may look a bit different for some due to COVID and distancing rules. But, there are plenty of ways to get out there and enjoy it!

Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful's annual Golf Play Day is coming up THIS Friday!There's still some time to register. So make sure you give them a call ((815) 637-1343) to get set up! If you enjoy golfing, this should be a no-brainer! But, it's not only golfing that you get to enjoy. There will be food, beverages, Axe Throwing, minnow racing, games, prizes, a raffle, and more! It's also supposed to be an absolutely gorgeous day. So get signed up now!

Some of my favorite memories from childhood involve being able to play at the Discovery Center Museum. I mean, it doesn't get better than being able to go up the stairs by climbing through different sized holes in the staircase! Plus, I could spend all day trying to see how many times I'm able to get the bubble to be taller than me. You know exactly what I'm talking about. Those of us who were lucky enough to grow up in Rockford, or have taken a child to the museum, know just how fun, educational, and exciting Discovery Center is. Check this out. Discovery Center Museum earned a 2020 TripAdvisor "Travelers Choice" Award for attractions. That means they consistently receive great reviews that put them in the top 10% of hospitality business around the world. Mind. Blown. I'm not surprised, but that is SO cool! We are lucky to have Discovery Center Museum right downtown Rockford. It's easily accessible and affordable for families to come out and play. It's great for teaching and allowing kids to get hands-on experience with so many different objects. Per their announcement:“Winning the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award is a source of pride for the staff and board at Discovery Center Museum and we’d like to thank all of our past visitors who took the time to complete a review on Tripadvisor,” said Ann Marie Walker, marketing director at Discovery Center Museum. “There is no greater seal of approval than being recognized by one’s customers. The accolade is a vote of confidence to our museum and our continued commitment to excellence,” Walker added.“Winners of the 2020 Travelers’ Choice Awards should be proud of this distinguished recognition,” said Kanika Soni, Chief Commercial Officer at Tripadvisor. “Although it’s been a challenging year for travel and hospitality, we want to celebrate our partners' achievements. Award winners are beloved for their exceptional service and quality. Not only are these winners well deserving, they are also a great source of inspiration for travelers as the world begins to venture out again.”CONGRATS Discovery Center! This award is well-deserved. We know how amazing you know. It's great to see the rest of the world recognizing it as well!About Discovery Center MuseumDiscovery Center Museum is a children’s science museum providing hands-on math, science and art experiences for all ages with over 250 hand-on exhibits and an award-winning outdoor park. Discovery Center Museum is the nation’s 5th Best Museum for Families according to USA TODAY/10Best.com, and one of 12 museums included in Forbes.com’s article, The 12 Best Children’s Museums in the U.S. Discovery Center is located inside Riverfront Museum Park, 711 North Main Street, Rockford, Ill. General admission to the Museum is: $9 adults, $9 children (ages 2 to 17) and free to Museum members and children age 1 and younger. Current temporary hours open are: 10 am-Noon and 1-3 pm Wednesday – Sunday. For additional information regarding Discovery Center Museum, call (815) 963-6769 or log onto our website at www.discoverycentermuseum.org.

We asked you on Facebook to nominate your favorite local pizza places. We have the compiled list! Now it's time to vote!CLICK HERE TO VOTE!May your favorite place win! The winner will be announced on Wednesday's podcast episode! Find & subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google, & Spotify HERE - or wherever else you stream podcasts.

Discovery Center Museum invites children and families to celebrate Worldwide Day of Play on Saturday, September 26.  Lace-up your shoes and put on your thinking caps! Today is a day to turn off your electronic devices, get off the couch and play! Join us as we participate in the Worldwide Day of Play with a scavenger hunt through the museum and outdoor park. Work together with your group to solve puzzles and participate in activity challenges to complete the scavenger hunt. Included with Museum admission. About Discovery Center MuseumDiscovery Center Museum is a children’s science museum providing hands-on math, science and art experiences for all ages with over 250 hand-on exhibits and an award-winning outdoor park. Discovery Center Museum is the nation’s 5th Best Museum for Families according to USA TODAY/10Best.com, and one of 12 museums included in Forbes.com’s article, The 12 Best Children’s Museums in the U.S. Discovery Center is located inside Riverfront Museum Park, 711 North Main Street, Rockford, Ill. General admission to the Museum is: $9 adults, $9 children (ages 2 to 17) and free to Museum members and children age 1 and younger. Current temporary hours open are: 10 am-Noon and 1-3 pm Wednesday – Sunday. For additional information regarding Discovery Center Museum, call (815) 963-6769 or log onto our website at www.discoverycentermuseum.org.

For the first time, art-lovers from Rockford – and afar – can peruse and purchase pieces from the Greenwich Village Art Fair when the renowned festival moves online (www.greenwichvillageartfair.com) on Saturday and Sunday, September 19-20.Over 70 artists from across America will showcase their work virtually, covering the gamut of painting, mixed media, sculpture, printmaking, photography, jewelry, fibers, artisan food and hand-crafted gifts.The Rockford Art Museum, host of the fair, moved the fair online to uphold local and state-wide COVID-19 recommendations. The fair will still be a juried show and will remain a two-day event with lots of bonus activities like musical performances, family art activities and more on social media.“We’re very proud that even a pandemic won’t stop our beloved Greenwich Village Art Fair from running this year. The virtual format is also great way to expose our local and regional artists to art-lovers outside of Rockford,” said Rockford Art Museum Executive Director/Curator Carrie Johnson.“With so many people still working from home, this is a great chance to mix up your space with a new piece of artwork that also supports the livelihood of hardworking artists,” she said.Established in 1948, GVAF is the longest-running art fair of its kind in the Midwest. All artwork on virtual display at Greenwich Village Art Fair is original and produced entirely by the hands of the exhibiting artist. There are no reproductions or mass-produced work.Midland States Bank is the Presenting Sponsor of the 72nd Greenwich Village Art Fair.Follow the action online-View and buy work (beginning on Saturday, September 19th): www.greenwichvillageartfair.com-Greenwich Art Fair extras and updates: Head to facebook.com/greenwichvillageartfair and @greenwichrockford #greenwichrockford on social media for behind-the-scenes, Greenwich memories through the years, musical performances, family art activities and more.About Rockford Art MuseumFounded in 1913, the mission of Rockford Art Museum is to foster creativity and build community through visual arts. RAM is located inside the Riverfront Museum Park building at 711 North Main Street in downtown Rockford, Illinois. Connect with us on Facebook @rockfordartmuseum and Instagram @rockfordart#rockfordartmuseum, and go behind the scenes with us on our free mobile app. Learn more at rockfordartmuseum.org.

Today, Midway Village Museum hosted a ribbon cutting to unveil their three brand new bike racks on the museum campus!Thanks to Hon. K. Patrick Yarbrough Family, I Bike Rockford, Kegel's Bicycle Store, Rockford Bicycle Co., Rockford Park District, and Midway Village Museum guests will have a place to park their bikes around the museum so they can get out and enjoy while being active.“I felt we could bring value to the museum and what it offers to our community, and being a part of I Bike Rockford I felt I could bring people in the community together to work on this project,” Patrick Yarbrough said. “Many people in the community bike ride for enjoyment, and the timing could not be better with people seeking additional outdoor activities in their leisure time because of the pandemic. The goal of I Bike Rockford is to get more people riding for fun, exercise and to encourage everyone to get to know their community better. Being able to provide access to bike racks on the museum grounds helps encourage residents to get out and learn more about area history.”Yarbrough, a lifelong Rockford resident, Guilford High School and Ripon College graduate, began creating a group of community leaders he felt could move the project along just this past January. With snow on the ground, Yarbrough brought the committee together at Midway Village Museum to tour the museum campus to locate a possible area for a bike rack.With more than 148-acres and numerous entry points to the grounds, three site locations were determined to be convenient and also visible to bicyclists coming to the museum.  The three new bicycle racks will provide access to various entrance points at the museum including the Main Museum Center front entrance, the recreation path near the public restrooms and on the south side of the main parking lot near the historic village entrance. The museum project is the second of three destinations in Rockford to receive the bicycle racks. The Veterans Memorial Hall and the Ethnic Heritage Museum are the other two destinations. There is one rack for six bicycles already at Veterans Memorial Hall.To start the fundraising campaign for the bike racks Yarbrough and his wife, Tammy, donated all the three bike racks to be located on the Midway Village Museum campus. The I Bike Rockford group, Rockford Bicycle Company and Kegels Bicycle Store gave financing to complete the project at the museum including the concrete work needed for the bike rack pads. The concrete work for the bike rack pads is by Paul LaBree of LaBree Concrete Inc.The committee of community members include Patrick Yarbrough, I Bike Rockford; David Brynes, Midway Village Museum; Laurie Anderson, Rockford Park District; Robb Sinks, Kegels Bicycle Store; Ashley Sarver, Gary W. Anderson Architects and I Bike Rockford; Laura Furman, Midway Village Museum; Caitlin Treece, Midway Village Museum; Kevin Polaski, I Bike Rockford; Skip Stienecker, Rockford Bicycle Company; Theotis Glover, Rockford Park District; Jenny Johnson, Rockford Park District; Jocelyn Hare, Ethnic Heritage Museum; Jay Sandine, Rockford Park District; and Ian Linnabary, Reno Zahm, LLP.“We hope many members of the community will utilize and enjoy the bike racks while attending events, visiting the exhibits at Midway Village Museum or when exercising on the recreation path,” said Yarbrough.”Midway Village Museum is situated on 148-acres with a recreation path circling around the property which measures as a 1.4 mile loop. A new Perryville Road loop was completed last year linking to the original recreation path. On the far southeast side of the property situated at the corner of Guilford and Perryville Road is a resting area with a water fountain.“The new bicycle racks will encourage more individuals to visit the museum, and spark an interest to come to those who may never have been to the museum before,” said David Byrnes, Executive Director, Midway Village Museum. “Outdoor recreation is very popular with more people than ever getting outdoors and riding bikes for exercise and for enjoyment. The timing is perfect to place these on the grounds as a way to invite more people to visit.”

Do you love celebrations? We love celebrations! We also love Roxy Carmichael Boutique. They just happen to be having an exciting celebration this weekend!Roxy Carmichael Boutique will be celebrating two years of being open under current ownership!Stop in and help them celebrate on Saturday, September 19, from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm. It's not just a day of happy vibes, there are also some goodies in it for you when you stop in!I won't give you too many spoilers. But, I hear there will be some GIVEAWAYS . . . and GIFTS . . . and PARTY FAVORS. I'm already excited, aren't you?!I know you are.So, go visit Roxy Carmichael, 310 N. Alpine Road, this Saturday! Tell them we said hello :)Congrats, Roxy Carmichael Boutique! Here's to many more exciting years of dressing up Rockford!

Over the past few years, escape rooms have really skyrocketed in popularity. They’re a fun activity for a group of friends or family. They’ll make you think, but you feel so accomplished when you find the clues.Rockford Public Library (RPL) has brought that concept to the internet for teens and tweens between the ages of 11 and 18.Every Wednesday, starting this week (9/16), you’ll be able to join RPL in an online chat room to find clues, unlock doors, and solve puzzle games! Links will only be sent out to those who register. You can go here (https://services.rockfordpubliclibrary.org/event/4583395) to register for this week and find the following events.You’ll be solving a new escape room each week, so make sure you sign up for more than one if you enjoy it! You won’t see the same room twice.

This September, Rockford Public Library (RPL) will screen three documentary films each featuring subject matter important to the overall theme of racial justice in America. Each screening will be followed by a panel discussion moderated by community activist and mentor, Tony Turner of the United Way’s Strong House and Conscious Coaching. The film series is the first of events being promoted under RPL’s newly designated Anti-racism Initiative, which aims to provide opportunities for people in our community to learn about the multi-faceted problems of racism and discuss solutions. “As stated in our strategic plan, Rockford Public Library works to celebrate diversity and inclusion of all within our community.” explains RPL Executive Director, Lynn Stainbrook. “’The Racial Justice Documentary Film Screenings and Panel Discussions’ are perfect examples of the type of unique learning experiences that makes RPL a key education provider for people of all ages.”The screenings and subsequent discussions will be held on Tuesday evenings this month at 6:30PM at RPL’s Nordlof Center at 118 N. Main Street, downtown Rockford. Panels are comprised of community actively involved in facilitating real and sustainable change. All panel discussions will be mediated by community activist and coach, Tony Turner. Racial Justice Documentary Film Screenings include: 9/15/20“I AM NOT YOUR NEGRO” Written by, James Baldwin Directed by, Raoul Peck9/22/20“TEACH US ALL”Directed by, Sonia Lowman Produced by, ARRAY9/29/20“WHOSE STREETS?”Directed by, Sabbah Folayan & Damon Davis Registration is required. Please visit www.rockfordpubliclibrary.org to register.

I don’t know about you, but one of the worst things about the lockdown for me was missing live music. There’s something about going out and seeing artists on stage performing their music that speaks to me and inspires me. Of course, hearing live music is also just entertaining and can enhance a night out.Thankfully, live music is starting to come back slowly and we have some great venues and restaurants around the Rockford Area that have adapted and hosted outdoor concerts.There’s one weekend in particular for live music that you need to get on your calendar. Rivets Stadium is hosting a whole concert weekend from Friday, September 25 – Sunday, September 27.Friday night, you can catch Black Smoke Cherry with special guests The Nielsen Trust.Doors open at 6:00 pm. The show starts at 7:00 pm.Grab your tickets: https://northwoodsleague.com/rockford-rivets/concert/Saturday Night, Too Hype Crew with specials guests Fool House will take the stage.Doors open at 6:00 pm. The Show starts at 7:00 pm.Grab your tickets: https://northwoodsleague.com/rockford-rivets/9-26-too-hype-crew-concert/Sunday night, REVOLUTION DE AMOR TRIBUTO A MANA with special guests Rolling Roses Band, Dj Petey P and DJ Dame! are putting on a show.Doors open at 2:00 pm. Show starts at 3:00 pmGrab your tickets: https://northwoodsleague.com/rockford-rivets/revolution-de-amor-tributo-a-mana/

If you’ve been cleaning out your closets (or, let’s be real, need a push to do so), Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful is hosting a Clothing Drive this Saturday, September 12, from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm. The neat thing is that it doesn’t have to just be clothing.Here’s their list of acceptable items:All clean clothing, wearable or notShoesBeltsPursesPlush toysSoft-sided luggagePillowsBeddingLinensFabricBackpacksThey request that you place all items into plastic bagsThere will be FOUR different drop-off locations for your convenienceFarm & Fleet4567 E Rockton RdRoscoe, IL 61073Farm & Fleet7300 E Riverside BlvdLoves Park, IL 61111Farm & Fleet4725 W State StRockford, IL 61102Our Saviors Lutheran Church3300 Rural StRockford, IL 61107Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful specializes in recycling and waste reduction. These two things alone are a huge factor in keeping our environment safe and, of course, BEAUTIFUL! They host wonderful programs throughout the year to encourage waste reduction and cleaning up Northern Illinois. Along with designated programs, they also have two recycling facilities located in Rockford, IL and Loves Park, IL.For more information and to see what items they accept at their recycling centers, you can visit their website at:https://knib.org/

In order to curb the spread of COVID-19, there were new guidelines put into place for guests visiting restaurants for drive thru, dine in, and carry out. These guidelines were updated at the end of August, but I’ve heard from a bunch of people that they were unaware. So, you can find the new guidelines below!Face coverings that cover your mouth and nose must be worn when communicating with employees of the establishment. So, when you are placing your order, receiving your food and/or beverages, being seated, paying, and leaving – your face covering needs to be over your nose and mouth. Previously, the rule of thumb was that once you were seated at your table, you could remove your mask. This is still true while eating and drinking, of course. But, if you are interacting with building staff, you must have your mask on.When you’re picking food or drinks up from a drive-thru window, you must be wearing a mask that covers your nose and mouth.When picking up food and/or drinks for carryout, you must be wearing a facemask that covers your nose and mouth.There you have it! Mask up and be safe!More information can be found at the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity websiteAndWinnebago County Health Department website

Learn to Skate and Learn to Play Hockey Lessons are back!Ice skating and hockey lessons are returning to Carlson Ice Arena in September! Rockford Park District’s Learn to Skate and Jr. IceHogs/Learn to Play Hockey programs offer people ages two through adult of all abilities the opportunity to learn the skills to enjoy ice sports recreation for a lifetime. Group sessions are offered year-round for beginner, recreational, and advanced skill levels, and meet at Carlson Ice Arena in Loves Park once a week for 30-50 minutes, with skates and helmets provided; the next sessions begin September 10, 2020. Fees vary according to session type and residency; find complete schedules and program details online, or by calling 815-969-4069.Unique programs at Rockford Park District ice facilities include Baby Blades for ages 18 months-2 years, and Junior Figure Skaters Training for ages 7-16. Unique hockey programs include Power Skating for the Hockey Player for ages 6-17, Youth Learn to Play Hockey for ages 5-15, plus a variety of specialized camps and clinics for both sports.New instructional programs starting September 10, 2020, for ages six through adult - Off Ice Conditioning and Jump Class, and Figure Skating Specialty Class.Skaters interested in additional advanced training can arrange individual lessons with professional figure skating and hockey coaching staff of the Park District's ice facilities.Registration for skating and hockey programs will continue until capacity is reached. Registration, class descriptions, schedules, and fees are available online, at Park District Customer Service locations: UW Health Sports Factory in Rockford, and Carlson Ice Arena and Mercyhealth Sportscore Two in Loves Park. Information on fee assistance for eligible residents, as well as possible support and adapted sports programs for skaters and hockey players with disabilities is available at 815-969-4069 or 815-987-8800 (call/text).Safety has been and will continue to be a top priority for the Rockford Park District. The District has worked with and followed guidelines from the CDC, IDPH, Restore Illinois, and local health officials to develop procedures and protocols to ensure a fun and safe recreational experience. Complete information is posted online.Our popular Learn to Skate program is getting back on the ice at Carlson Ice Arena in September! Select the class below for more information and to register.Learn More!

Classes now available to both homeschool and traditional students and new Intensive classes sure to please those wanting to dig deeper!Discovery Center Museum is adding two new categories of classes to its fall offerings. In addition to classes for homeschool students, Discovery Center is opening those classes to children who will be doing virtual learning through their schools, yet have a schedule that allows them to enjoy some supplemental learning through either an in-person or online class. The museum’s education staff have also developed “Intensives” - classes digging deep into subjects as students meet in person once a week for six weeks.  All classes are for children ages 7 and older. Families can choose a date and time that works best for their schedule, as well as choose between in-person or virtual classes (virtual classes on Fridays only). Cost is $11 for Discovery Center members and $13 for the public. Fees are per child per class. Advance registration required. Payment must accompany registration. Registration closes 3:00 pm on Monday the week before class. Register online at www.discoverycentermuseum.org, or call (815) 963-6769. COVID-19 Protocols: In accordance with state and local health guidelines, all students and staff will be required to wear face coverings (over nose and mouth). Exceptions can be made for people with medical conditions or disabilities that prevent them from safely covering their nose and mouth. Temperatures of all participants will be checked prior to entry into classroom. SCHEDULE OF CLASSESIt’s Rocket ScienceDesign a variety of rockets to blast off. Experiment with varying fuel amounts, wing shapes, and sizes. What design works best for you?Session 1: Tuesday, Sept. 22; 10-11:30 am Session 2: Wednesday, Sept. 23; 1:30-3:00 pm Session 3: Thursday, Sept. 24; 10-11:30 am Session 4: Friday, Sept. 25; 1:30-3:00 pm - virtual class Insect InsidesExplore the insides of a landlubber grasshopper and see the similarities and differences between the body of an insect and the body of a human. Look at the similarities and differences between our skeletons, our eyes, our blood, and how we breathe! Learn the importance of insects within the ecosystem, especially large predators like grasshoppers!Session 1: Tuesday, Oct. 6; 10-11:30 am Session 2: Wednesday, Oct. 7; 1:30-3:00 pm Session 3: Thursday, Oct. 8; 10-11:30 am Session 4: Friday, Oct. 9; 1:30-3:00 pm - virtual class Chemical ConundrumsLearn about chemical reactions in this exciting course! See how heat can be released by a chemical reaction, create new compounds, run your own tests! Witness liquids, solids, and gases change form right before your eyes! Utilize acids and bases to make a whole rainbow of colors. Work with proper safety equipment in a chemistry lab and learn to do experiments like a true scientist!Session 1: Tuesday, Oct. 20; 10-11:30 am Session 2: Wednesday, Oct. 21; 1:30-3:00 pm Session 3: Thursday, Oct. 22; 10-11:30 am Session 4: Friday, Oct. 23; 1:30-3:00 pm – virtual class Take it ApartEver wonder what’s inside a computer, telephone or printer? Learn about the gears, pulleys and other simple machines that help make technology work. Then grab a screwdriver and join us as we investigate the inner workings of technology!Session 1: Tuesday, Nov. 3; 10-11:30 am Session 2: Wednesday, Nov. 4; 1:30-3:00 pm Session 3: Thursday, Nov. 5; 10-11:30 am Session 4: Friday, Nov. 6; 1:30-3:00 pm – virtual class Game LabWhat makes a game fun? What makes a game winnable? How do you build strategies to win a game? We’ll learn how tabletop games are structured, and then build our own!Session 1: Tuesday, Nov. 17; 10-11:30 am Session 2: Wednesday, Nov. 18; 1:30-3:00 pm Session 3: Thursday, Nov. 19; 10-11:30 am Session 4: Friday, Nov. 20; 1:30-3:00 pm – virtual class Elements of EnergyDiscover the energy sources and uncover the connection between spinning things and electricity! Have a static-induced hair-raising experience, wire a light-up circuit you can take home or send to a friend, explore lightning, and turn crazy stuff into batteries! Session 1: Tuesday, Dec. 1; 10-11:30 am Session 2: Wednesday, Dec. 2; 1:30-3:00 pm Session 3: Thursday, Dec. 3; 10-11:30 am Session 4: Friday, Dec. 4; 1:30-3:00 pm – virtual class  NEW INTENSIVE CLASSES Session Times: Mondays 1:30-3:00 pmCost: $70 Members / $85 PublicRegistration deadline for Intensives is the Monday prior to the first week of class. Coding 101Learn basic coding skills using both screen-free and visual coding, like Blockly. Create and test your own code while programming Ozobots and Cubelets. Explore how coding and making intersect with a 3D printer in this hands-on coding course. Class Dates: Sept. 21; Sept. 28; Oct. 5; Oct. 12; Oct. 19; Oct. 26 Introduction to Anatomy & PhysiologyTake a deep dive into the systems of the human body and the processes that make it function. Dissect organs to learn how they work and how they contribute to our physiological processes.Class Dates: Nov. 2; Nov. 9; Nov. 16; Nov. 23; Nov. 30, Dec. 7

The City of Rockford Community and Economic Development Department is pleased to announce a new minor repair housing program lottery that provides up to $25,000 to income-eligible households. The housing rehab program may address exterior, electrical, mechanical or plumbing issues, as well as accessibility modifications for persons with disabilities. Eligible homes must be single family, owner occupied, and located within the City of Rockford. Additional program details and requirements can be found on the Neighborhood Development page of the City’s website www.rockfordil.gov.Interested homeowners can contact the City via phone at 779-348-7162, fax at 815-967-6933 or email NDHousing@rockfordil.gov to be included in the lottery selection for the program. Please provide your name, property address, phone number, and email address by September 9, 2020. Any homeowner whose name is selected through the lottery system will be contacted by City staff and receive information about the program application process.Funding for this program is provided through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Happy Friday! The weekend is here again! It's toasty outside today, but the weather is supposed to be more manageable for the rest of the weekend - for those of you like me who enjoy 70's and low 80's! Have a great weekend!Friday, August 28, 2020Victorian Village Seasonal Tours @ Midway Village Museum - view event11:00 am - 4:00 pmRockford City Market - view event3:30 pm - 7:30 pmClosing Night for SUPERFREAK! @ 317 Art Collective - view event6:00 pm - 9:00 pmMusic on the Mall with The Lone Canary @ Edgebrook - view event6:30 pm - 8:30 pmSensations @ GreenFire - view event8:00 pm - 11:00 pmSaturday, August 29, 2020Record Store Day @ Culture Shock - view event8:00 am - 6:00 pmRockford Midtown Market - view event9:00 am - 1:00 pmDance at the Dells: Site Specific Dance @ Severson Dells Nature Center - view event5:00 pm - 7:00 pmTrinadora's Duo Dance @ Cucina di Rosa - view event6:00 pm - 9:00 pmLIVE Music @ Graystone Grill - view event6:00 pm - 9:00 pmThe Rocksurfers @ Rock-A-Bago Hall - view event7:00 pm - 11:00 pmSunday, August 30, 2020Sunday Farm Stand Pick Up @ Owl's Roost Farm - view event8:00 am - 11:00 amB.Y.O.C. event benefiting Miss Carly's @ Ciao Bella Restaurant - view event1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Keeping up with technology is not always easy. Voice search technology presents a rare opportunity for businesses looking to get ahead of the game. Voice Search allows users to use a voice command to search the internet, a website, or an app on your smartphone, computers to home assistant devices. If you think your organization’s digital marketing efforts might benefit from an enhanced voice search strategy, there’s still time to beat your competitors to the punch!Please join Tom Galante of Midwest Family Marketing from Madison, Wisconsin. Tom’s presentation will guide you through tips and strategies of Voice Search.When: Tuesday, September 8th, 5:30 to 7 p.m.Where: Online via Zoom (please click on link below) https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89990020936Meeting ID: 899 9002 0936Cost: Free

Welcome to the weekend! If you're looking for things to do, we've got you covered! For even more options, check out the EVENTS LIST. Friday, August 21, 2020Rockford City Market - view event3:30 pm - 7:30 pmRick Burns @ Cucina di Rosa - view event6:00 pm - 9:00 pmLive w/ Liv at The Norwegian's "State Fair" @ The Norwegian - view event6:30 pm - 8:30 pmMusic on the Mall with Fred & Ginger @ Edgebrook - view event6:30 pm - 8:30 pmVintage Vinyl @ Rock-a-Bago Hall - view event7:00 pm - 11:00 pmGreenFire & DFS Part II @ GreenFire Restaurant - view event8:00 pm - 11:00 pmShifty Shafer Rockin @ Whiskeys Roadhouse - view event9:00 pm - 1:00 amSaturday, August 22, 2020Rockford Midtown Market - view event9:00 am - 1:00 pmPrayer Banners @ Womanspace - view event10:00 am - 1:00 pmVictorian Village Seasonal Tours @ Midway Village Museum - view event11:00 am - 4:00 pmThe Firelight Dimmers @ Cucina di Rosa - view event6:00 pm - 9:00 pmLIVE Music @ Graystone Grill - view event6:00 pm - 9:00 pmShooter/USA live @ Rock-A-Bago Hall - view event7:00 pm - 11:00 pmSunday, August 23, 2020Drinks for the Dells @ Carlyle Brewing Co. - view event3:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Birthday parties may look a little different these days, but Rockford Park District’s Sapora Playworld offers a unique way to surprise birthday boys and girls with a celebration.Facility mascot Rocky the Polar Bear lives at Carlson Ice Arena and the three-level indoor Sapora Playworld soft play structure, and misses seeing all his friends celebrate their birthdays with him. Rocky came up with a fun way to wish his friends “Happy Birthday” while they celebrate safely at home with a virtual birthday package.Each package costs $10, and consists of a Rocky the Bear birthday song and dance video sent via e-mail, personalized virtual birthday card, birthday greeting posted on Sapora Playworld’s Facebook page, and a coupon for $10 off a future birthday party package.This virtual offering is one of many ways the Rockford Park District is utilizing technology to keep youth active and engaged. For more information, call 815-969-4082; purchase a virtual package online.More info!

Rockford Day is this weekend! If you’re going out on the town, here are some tips for celebrating! If you want ideas for things to do check out the Rockford Buzz EVENTS PAGE!Be safe – Wear Your Masks & Wash Your HandsLet’s be smart and safe so our favorite local spots can stay open. Make sure you wear your masks and abide by social distancing rules. Most of our local restaurants and shops have been working extremely hard to stay clean so they can be open for you. Help them out!Check Out the Rockford Buzz Events PageI mentioned it above. But, if you’re looking for things to do on Saturday, check out the EVENTS PAGE on Rockford Buzz! We’ve got you covered!Visit Your Favorite Local PlacesThis seems like a no-brainer. If there’s a local spot you really appreciate, SHOW UP! Even if you don’t end up buying anything, show up and make your presence and support known. They’re looking forward to seeing you.Visit Local Places You’ve Never Been to or Haven’t Been in AwhileIt’s easy to visit places we know and love. Make it a priority to also visit a local shop or restaurant you’ve never been to or haven’t been to in awhile! Maybe they’ll become one of your new favorites, too!Document Your Time Out and AboutSpread the love! Show your friends where you’ve been by sharing photos of the local spots you’ve visited and any of the goodies you’ve bought! Don’t forget to tag the businesses on Facebook and Instagram. When they’re winding down from a busy day or weekend, they’ll love looking back at all of the photos and seeing that you had a great time.These are just a few tips for enjoying Rockford Day! Get out there, stay safe, and spread some love! We all need it now more than ever!

Rockford Day looks a little different this year. Usually the two of us would be out and about all day visiting as many places as humanly possible. Now, having to be COVID-conscious, it’s not as easy to just pop in to every place along one strip of road at a time.While some people may still be going out to celebrate Rockford Day and support local businesses in person, it’s totally okay to celebrate from home, too! Here’s some ideas for ways to support your favorite local businesses while at home.815GIVES.com815gives.com is a brand new website set up by One Body Collaboratives, Inc. to give Rockford the chance to help give back to those in need in our community. If you have any extra to give, please head on over to their website and consider donating. What better way to celebrate Rockford Day than to help people of Rockford in need?Share Local Business Posts Regarding Rockford DaySocial Media is a super powerful tool! One of the best ways you can show your support for your favorite local places without gracing them with your physical presence is sharing their posts! Some of your friends may not have heard of them before and will be inspired to pay them a visit, order online, or share their posts as well!Give Special Shoutouts to Your Favorite Local BusinessesTaking the time to create your own posts and give shoutouts to your favorite local places warms their hearts more than you know! It takes about two seconds to share a post that they create, but when you take a few moments out of your time to write something on your own, it shows a lot of care and positivity. That’s what we’re all about here!Support a Local Artist Through an Online ShopIf there’s one thing I know, Rockford has so many talented artists! Whether you love visual arts or music, most of our local artists have online shops so you can grab their work! Some of them even offer free local delivery. This is a great way to show support for some of our local creatives who have especially been hit hard by COVID this year.Order Food For DeliveryIf you don’t want to dine out, order delivery! Most of your favorite places offer delivery or curbside pick up. Make a whole day of it! You can order something for lunch AND more dinner! Rockford Day only comes around once per year afterall!Share Your Favorite Local MusicIf you want to go further than just buying a record or digital download, share some streaming links to your favorite local musicians! It’ll make their day!These are just a few ways to celebrate Rockford Day right from your couch! Easy, right? Let’s spread some love and positivity. It’s needed this year more than ever!

Game 1 was extremely exciting to watch. But, I have questions!Can you stay out of the box?The Edmonton Oilers have a lethal powerplay and it was on display in Game 1. When the final buzzer sounded on Saturday, the Oilers had 4 goals. 3 of them came on the powerplay. 1 of them came with the goaltender pulled. If Edmonton has an extra skater on the ice, Chicago needs to tighten up their game. The question is – how hard are they going to make this on themselves?Are you ready for Edmonton to score?Look, Edmonton didn’t get to where they are because they are defensive wizards. Draisaitl put up 110 points in the regular season and McDavid had 97. That’s only two players. Edmonton is going to score. That’s just fact. It’s what follows a goal that matters most. Will the Blackhawks let it mess with their head and lead to more defensive lapses? Or will they shrug it off and focus on the next play? Crawford has been known to not worry about the last goal and only focus on the next shot. Will the rest of the team do the same? If not, they’ll get stuck puck chasing, and the Oilers will eat them alive.Is Crawford actually ready?By now, we all know that Corey Crawford tested positive for COVID-19 and missed most of training camp. That, after not playing hockey for 4 months. He got a few practices in, half of an exhibition game, and one full meaningful game. He hasn’t looked bad, by any means. But, there were a few plays that left something to be desired on Saturday. He will get up to game speed soon, no doubt. But if he isn’t there for Game 2, the Blackhawks might not be able to score their way out of trouble this time. The Blackhawks will be in a much more comfortable position going into Game 3 with a 2-0 series lead rather than letting Edmonton tie the series at 1. The skaters need to do their job, but the Blackhawks are going to need Crawford dialed in as well. I think he will be ready for Game 2.The Chicago Blackhawks kicked the series off with a bang. They beat the Edmonton Oilers 6-4 and didn’t look like the offensively deficient team that we’ve seen so often in the last few years. It was extremely exciting as a Blackhawks fan to watch.Now the anxiety sets in for the game tonight . . .

Beginning the week of August 3, 2020, Rockford Art Museum (RAM) will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday–Sunday each week—with no reservations required, and free admission through the end of the year. The museum’s top priority in responding to the current public health crisis is the health and safety of our community, visitors, staff and volunteers. As part of our phased reopening, requirements for visitors will still include: face coverings over mouth and nose, wellness checks (no temperature above 100.4, no COVID-19 symptoms) and social distancing. Visitors who are not able to meet the entrance requirements will be asked to return a different day. All policies and practices align with recommendations from the Centers For Disease Control (CDC), Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and Winnebago County Health Department (Rockford, IL) (WCHD), and are subject to change as updated. Rockford Art Museum follows all guidelines given from the official State of Illinois Reopening Plan as well as the City of Rockford Government. Other procedures are based on best practices from research and collaboration with the American Alliance of Museums (AAM).The museum is an active part of Rockford’s “Clean Hands, Open Doors” program, led by the Rockford Area Convention Center & Visitors Bureau (RACVB). RAM has pledged to join with organizations and businesses across the Rockford region to help keep residents and visitors safe by adhering to guidelines regarding face coverings, clean hands, sanitization, social distance, wellness checks, training and protocols, and public health guidelines. Learn more at rockfordcleanhands.com.Rockford Art Museum is located inside the Riverfront Museum Park building at 711 North Main Street in downtown Rockford, Illinois, across the hall from Discovery Center Museum (open Tuesday–Sunday, reservations required, discoverycentermuseum.org) and next door to Burpee Museum of Natural History (open Friday–Sunday, reservations recommended, burpee.org).About Rockford Art Museum: Founded in 1913, the mission of Rockford Art Museum is to foster creativity and build community through visual arts. Connect with us on Facebook @rockfordartmuseum and Instagram @rockfordart #rockfordartmuseum, and go behind the scenes with us on our free mobile app. Learn more at rockfordartmuseum.org.