Articles & Stories | Rockford IL

Rockford Region Celebrates Census Day April 1

Wednesday, April 1, 2020 marks the official Census day, and area organizations are encouraging everyone to complete their Census survey online or by phone. Over 34% have completed the survey in the United States, 37.6% in IL, and 42.5% in Winnebago County. Other county response rates in the region include:Boone 43.9%, Ogle 44.9%, Stephenson 44.7%, and DeKalb 40.5%. The deadline for self-responding is August 14, 2020.“Our goal is to encourage everyone to make it a priority to complete their Census survey, to help ensure federal funding comes to our region and that we are properly represented,” said Wester Wuori, City of Rockford Chief of Staff and Chair of the 2020 Census Regional Complete County Committee. “For every person not counted, we are at risk of losing $15,350 in federal funding over the next ten years.”More than $675 billion in federal funds is allocated annually to local communities to fund programs for: schools, hospitals, fire and police departments, roads and bridges, people with disabilities, the elderly, rural residents, and other community service providers.How to Complete CensusBeginning, March 12, 2020, households across the nation began receiving in the mail an invitation to complete the 2020 Census with instructions for responding online. Even during shelter-in-place orders without leaving home, the nine-question survey can be completed either online at my2020census.gov or by calling 1-844-330-2020. Final counts will take place by August 2020 with the Census Bureau completing delivery of redistricting counts to the states in April 2021.Join Local Facebook Live Q & A Session: Thursday, April 2 @ 11:30amOn Thursday, April 2, 2020 at 11:30am, join Census Program Director Ivy Hood and Representative Maurice West for a Facebook Live session, where they will share information about the Census and answer questions. Link: https://www.facebook.com/R1Planning/. For more information on the Census visit, www.2020Census.gov.

Share

Info

Rockford Area Restaurants Offering Delivery or Carry Out!

Share

Info

Loan Program to Help Small Business Owners

Joined by members of the local banking industry, Mayor McNamara announced the creation of the COVID-19 Small Business Emergency Loan Fund. The loan fund, established by the Northern Illinois Community Development Corporation and managed by the Rockford Local Development Corporation, is funded by the City of Rockford, Winnebago County, Illinois Bank and Trust, Associated Bank, WinTrust, Midwest Community Bank, Blackhawk Bank, Northwest Bank, Stillman BancCorp and Sunil Puri. To date, $2 million has been raised with other financial institutions committing to support the fund. Due to the outbreak of COVID-19, many small businesses have suffered a devastating economic impact. These loans, available from $5,000 to $50,000, can be used for working capital and to help make ends meet during this critical time. The loan will be bridge financial while the small businesses seek funding from the Small Business Administration Disaster Relief Fund program. To be eligible businesses must:· Be for-profit entities· Have less than 100 employees· Be experiencing a business interruption or cash flow issue due to COVID-19· Meet an average credit score· Must have full year of operations or other financial informationFor more information on the COVID-19 Small Business Emergency Loan Fund you may contact John Phelps at John@rldc.us or Andrew Jury at Andrew@rldc.us or call 815-987-8675.NICDC is a multi-bank community development corporation owned by nine local financial institutions. Its mission is to provide gap financing for small businesses in the Rockford region to advance business formation and expansion, job creation and investment throughout the region.

Share

Info

What Shelter-In-Place Means For You

So, here we are. It has officially ticked past 5:00 pm on Saturday, March 21, 2020. The state of Illinois is under a Shelter-In-Place order from Governor Pritzker. I know the title brings with it a lot of confusion, so I will try to clear it up. If you have already been practicing self-isolation and social distancing, nothing is really changing for you at this point. Stay at home unless you need to go out for IMPORTANT reasons. If your job is requiring you to go in to work instead of working from home, you are still allowed to do so. Make sure you check with your employer if you are unsure. What you CAN do:Go to work (if you are required to do so)Go grocery shopping for necessary items – please do not hoard. Stores are not closing. The more you hoard, the less there is for your neighbors. Only buy what you need.Go to the doctor (please call ahead if you are exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms OR if you have a general appointment scheduled to make sure you aren’t rescheduled)Fill up your gas tankPick up medication from pharmaciesGo outside – go for a walk or jog around your neighborhood. Please still keep to the 6ft distancing rule. Open outdoor spaces are safe, but keep your distance from others. If you’re visiting a park, make sure they are still open before doing soOrder delivery or curbside pick-up from restaurants. Please call ahead or order online (if applicable) before showing upWhat you CAN’T do: Dine-in at restaurants – this has been the case all week. Attend gathering – we are all adjusting to this. It isn’t easy. The sooner we do this, the sooner we can get back to the life we want. Go to the gym – This may definitely throw a huge wrench in your routine. A lot of our local gyms have transitioned to online training! And, as you read above, you can still walk or jog around your neighborhood. Here are some things to remember:Don’t panic. This is new for all of us, but the best thing you can do is just stay home (if you are able)Do things at home that make you happy. Don’t feel like you have to tackle every home project you’ve been putting off just because you have time now. No one is expecting you to be overly productive. Breathe. We will get through this. Places that can stay open (From City of Rockford):Government, including police, fire, and 911Health care facilities and public health operationsStores that sell groceriesPharmaciesMedical and adult use cannabis dispensaries and operationsFood production and agricultureOrganizations that provide charitable and social servicesHuman services operationsMediaGas stations and auto supply/serviceFinancial institutionsHardware and supply storesCritical trades and essential infrastructure Mail, post, shipping, logistics, and delivery servicesEducational institutions (for the purpose of facilitating distance learning)Laundry servicesRestaurants for off-premises consumptionSupplies to work from homeSupplies for essential businesses and operationsTransportation (bus, taxi, Uber, Lyft)Home-based care and servicesResidential facilities and sheltersProfessional services (legal, accounting, insurance, and real estate)Certain day care centers for employees exempted by this orderManufacturing, distribution, and supply chain for critical products and industriesCritical labor union functionsHotels and motelsFuneral servicesAgain – Just because these places can remain open doesn’t mean that they will. Please call ahead before visiting if you are unsure. ANDAgain – Just because these places can remain open doesn’t mean to visit them daily. STAY HOME unless you have an important reason to go out. To sooner to adhere to this, the sooner we can get back to business as normal. Stay awesome, Rockford.

Share

Info

COVID-19 Information

Share

Info

Rockford Public Library will be offering remote services ONLY through April 7, 2020

In accordance with Governor Pritzker’s Shelter In Place order, Rockford Public Library [RPL] will be offering remote services only beginning 5PM, Saturday, March 23, 2020 through at least April 7, 2020. All events and classes have been canceled until further notice. Material holds will be honored and can be picked up at the time of reopening. Library staff will continue to work remotely and serve customer needs through email services.Please direct all inquiries to info@rockfordpubliclibrary.orgEligible borrowed materials will be renewed according to RPL’s automatic renewal process. Patrons are encouraged to return borrowed materials to any RPL branch location through external walk-up/drive-up receptacles. The renewal of material loans can also be achieved by calling any RPL location or by visiting our website: www.rockfordpubliclibrary.org , selecting “MY ACCOUNT” on the top navigation bar, and following the prompts. If cardholders are unable to travel to a location to return materials, fines will be waived.Other digital services available to cardholders during these weeks include:Keeping up with current as well as researching historical news through NEWSBANK The streaming of tens of thousands of digital materials including: ebooks, audiobooks through CLOUD LIBRARY, HOOPLA, children’s audio and animated books through TUMBLEBOOK, music through HOOPLA and FREEGAL, movies, television programs through HOOPLA and KANOPY, magazines through FLIPSTER and RB DIGITAL. Learn something new by taking one of our hundreds of digital courses through UNIVERSAL CLASS or one of dozens of “Great Courses” through KANOPY. Learn a new language through ROSETTA STONE. Stream hundreds of children’s video lessons through SCHOLASTIC GO. Students can keep up with their academics during the break from school by accessing HOMEWORK HELP as well as DMV PRACTICE EXAMS through our website.All of these databases can be found at: https://www.rockfordpubliclibrary.org/a-to-z-all-databases/ . Rockford Public Library Locations:Hart Interim Library: 815-965-7606 214 N. Church Street East Branch: 815-966-2748 6685 E. State StreetMontague Branch:815-966-2740 1238 S. Winnebago StreetRock River Branch: 815-966-2763 3128 11th StreetRockton Centre: 815-966-2776 3112 N. Rockton AvenueRPL’s Nordlof Center:815-987-6660 118 N. Main Street Rockford Public Library 214 N. Church St. Rockford, IL 61101 [T] 815-965-7606 [F] 815-965-0866 rockfordpubliclibrary.orgAbout the LibraryThe Rockford Public Library, founded in 1872 as the second library in Illinois, currently has six facilities, including a performing arts and training center (Nordlof Center), the Hart Interim Library and four Branch Libraries. Rockford Public Library informs, educates, entertains, and provides cultural enrichment to the people of our community.

Share

Info

The Ultimate Guide to Working From Home

With the news that we should be social isolating as much as possible, most companies are allowing employees to work from home if they’re able to. We, here at Rockford Buzz, have often been told that we’re lucky we get to work from home during normal times. Well, yes . . . we are. But, it isn’t as easy as it may seem. So now, *cracks knuckles*, I shall impart my knowledge and expertise onto you. If you're not used to working from home, let me help you out. COFFEEFirst and foremost, your choice of coffee is super important. It sets the tone for your entire day. Who has ever had a good day when their first cup of coffee is burnt or made from non-quality beans? None of us. Here’s what you do – buy your coffee from a local coffee shop. No, I’m not saying you have to leave your house every day to go buy a cup of coffee. I’m sure they would love to see your face every day, but let’s be smart here. You can buy whole beans OR coffee grounds at Meg’s, Wired, and the Roasting Company. This way, you know you are getting the quality goods AND you’re still supporting local*. Win, win, win, win, +10000.Meg’s Daily Grind1141 N Alpine RdRockford, Illinois 61114(815) 316-8785&3885 N. Perryville RdRockford, IL 61114(815) 639-0909Wired Café414 East State StRockford IL 61104(815) 316-2524Rockford Roasting Company206 N Main StRockford, Illinois 61101(815) 290-9591*if you have stumbled across this article and are not from the Rockford, IL region, consult the Google machine for your closest local coffee shop. I’m sure they’re lovely people too. But, we have the best. Sorry, not sorry.Once you have your beans and/or grounds, your coffee mug selection for the day is the next most important decision. If you’re like me – you have plain mugs and you have fun mugs. A plain mug is fine if you’re curling up with a book on a Sunday afternoon. In these trying times, you need FUN MUGS! You’re in luck because I can think of a place in Rockford that's accessible AND staying open – Culture Shock. I am writing this while drinking out of a mug I got at Culture Shock! Again, you can spice up your day by simply having a fun mug AND you’re supporting local in the process. All of the wins!Culture Shock2239 Charles StRockford, Illinois 61104(815) 229-2997Your fave local coffee shop also sells mugs. Mugs with local business names on them ARE fun!A final note on coffee – if you’re a tea drinker instead, desperate times call for desperate measures. It’s time to switch to coffee now. (Jokes aside – our local coffee shops also have tea, and they’ll be happy to hook you up. Just call ahead!)LISTENINGDepending on your type of work, it’s nice to have things playing in the background. I prefer music or podcasts, so that’s what I'll recommend. You happen to be in luck here, too. We have some incredible local* bands that can get you through the day. And some local podcasters - us included. Not that I'm bragging.Lone CanaryFacebookSpotifyName the MoonFacebookSpotifyQuilt ClubFacebookSpotifyEspinosa and CoffeyFacebookYoutubeGo Go TorpedoFacebookSpotifyMana KintorsoFacebookSpotifyMiles NielsenFacebookSpotifyMono In StereoFacebookSpotifyTaboo Blah BlahFacebookSpotifyPodcastsRockford Buzz: The PodcastFacebookListenFrom Center IceFacebookListenGhost Freak’n Talk’nFacebookListenWeird DarknessFacebookListen*Again, if you’ve stumbled across this and aren’t from Rockford, these folks aren’t local to you. But, that’s what the Internet is for. Listen to them anyway. BOOZENeed I say more? The days can drag on and get monotonous. Here are some local places you can get some booze for your afternoons/evenings. Don’t go too crazy (at least while you’re still working!)Artale Wine Co. 6876 Spring Creek Road #128Rockford, Illinois 61114(815) 877-9463Carlyle Brewing Co.215 E State StRockford, Illinois 61104(815) 963-2739Prairie Street Brewing Co.200 Prairie St.Rockford, Illinois 61107(815) 277-9427TECH ISSUESEven the biggest technology nerds among us have technical difficulties. Trying to work from home through that just isn't going to happen without smashing your head into a wall repeatedly. PC Tech 2U is OPEN and ready to help you!PC Tech 2U1654 N Alpine RdRockford, Illinois 61107(815) 871-2470Now that we have a list of some local places you can support while working from home, I’ll give you some other tips!GET DRESSEDIt’s entirely too tempting to stay in your PJs if you don’t have to leave the house. Here’s the downside: your motivation will match your outfit. You can get lazy when you are in your comfy sweats and large shirts. I’m not saying you have to put on a full suit or a full face of makeup (Although, if you want to – more props to you!). Put on a pair of pants other than your PJ pants and a shirt that you didn’t sleep in. Sometimes I even put shoes on. You’ll figure out your perfect work from home outfit!EAT YOUR MEALSI sometimes just plain forget to eat my meals. You can get caught up in work and all of a sudden it’s 9:00 pm and all you’ve eaten all day is a cookie (adulting – woohoo!). Time does not exist when you work from home. Some of you may still have to clock in and clock out. But, time does not exist. It’s a myth. Do your best to get your 2 or 3 meals in per day – however many you normally would. We’re all different here. SNACKSYes, it's very tempting to snack all day while you’re home. You have full access to your kitchen and the day can get boring. DON’T. DO. IT! Some snacks are perfectly fine, of course. If you find yourself purely snacking out of boredom, you’ll feel miserable at night and then wonder where all of your food went. My recent cure for this is eating oranges or the small Cuties. You have to put the work into eating them by taking the peel off. If you feel better after eating it - great! You probably just needed something else to do instead of work. If you're still feeling hungry, allow yourself another small snack.WALKWhen you start wearing down, get up and take a walk around the house. It’ll wake you up, give your eyes a reset, and let your brain hit the restart button. You may even come up with a brilliant idea to get to work on when you sit back down. If you don't mind the weather, walking outside is even better.IGNORE THE CHORES“I would really love to get this article written, but that pile of laundry is STARING at me and JUDGING me . . . I can feel it . . . my clothes now have eyes . . . and they won’t stop staring at me!”No, your clothes don’t have eyes. They don’t have feelings. They’ll be perfectly fine until you finish your work for the day. They would be there if you were at your place of work. This is no different except you can see them. IGNORE THEM*!*note: it is okay to take a BREAK to get something done. Don’t let it derail your day. BREATHEThis is a reminder we all need. Things will be okay. Just breathe. (I can't take the credit for this one. Credit goes to someone in my own life who had to remind me to do this yesterday).There you have it! I hope this has been helpful. If you have any other tips, we would love to hear them. You can comment on Facebook or message us on Instagram!If you enjoy positive news about Rockford and don't have our mobile app yet, it's free on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Also consider becoming a Rockford Buzz Backer and supporting our mission to change the narrative around Rockford!

Share

Info

Rockford Area Restaurants Offering Delivery or Carry Out!

Share

Info

Discovery Center Museum to close

Discovery Center announced today the museum is temporarily closing to the public at 5:00 pm, Saturday, March 14 through March 30. “The health and safety of our guests, staff and volunteers is our top priority,” explains Discovery Center Executive Director Sarah Wolf. Following Illinois Governor Pritzker’s announcement of statewide school closures, and the Winnebago County Health Department’s recommendations regarding COVID-19 (coronavirus), Discovery Center is taking unprecedented steps to balance its educational mission with the duty to protect the health and well-being of their guests, staff and volunteers. Discovery Center’s Leadership Team and Board of Directors made the decision to do their part in the social distancing efforts that public health experts suggest help protect people from the further spread of the coronavirus. Over the coming days, the Discovery Center Leadership Team will continue to make additional adjustments and announcements as needed to meet the needs of the community. People can check http://www.discoverycentermuseum.org/ and the Discovery Center Museum Facebook page for updates. 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, planetarium, special area for children under five, and an outdoor science 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. In 2019 Discovery Center earned the Trip Advisor Hall of Fame distinction. The Museum 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); free to Museum members and children age 1 and younger. Hours of operation are: 10 am to 5 pm seven days a week. For additional information, call (815) 963-6769 or log onto our website at www.discoverycentermuseum.org.

Share

Info

COVID-19 Closure Update: Rockford Art Museum temporarily closed, effective 5 p.m., Saturday, March 14

Effective 5 p.m. Saturday, March 14, Rockford Art Museum is temporarily closed until further notice—and all events, classes and programs at RAM are cancelled or postponed. After yesterday’s announcement of statewide school closures, and as part of Illinois Governor JB Pritzker’s ask for communities to aggressively expand social distancing efforts to limit exposure, all Rockford Park District facilities, events, programs, and rentals are suspended effective immediately.This includes Rockford Art Museum, located inside the Riverfront Museum Park building at 711 North Main Street in downtown Rockford, which is also home to Discovery Center Museum, Rockford Dance Company and Rockford Symphony Orchestra. Burpee Museum of Natural History is located next door. Rockford Art Museum and the Rockford Park District have been following and supporting guidelines and recommendations made by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), Winnebago County Health Department (WCHD) and the City of Rockford, and will continue to do so until this health emergency subsides. We are constantly monitoring news and recommendations, as they change daily and sometimes hourly. Please regularly check our website, rockfordartmuseum.org, and Facebook page, facebook.com/rockfordartmuseum, for updates. Thank you for your support. Carrie Johnson Executive Director/Curator Rockford Art Museum p.s. Need an art fix from home? Download our free mobile app and go behind the scenes with us, where you’ll find artist-led gallery walks, curator talks and more.

Share

Info

Octane is OPEN!

To everyone concerned about what’s going on. Octane will be open for regular service as of now, if you don’t want to be inside you can order on Grub-Hub and DoorDash, if you have a hard time finding the menu it’s on our website @ www.octanerkfd.com, we always practice good hygiene here at Octane, we make sure surfaces including chairs and door handles are thoroughly disinfected and sanitized, regardless we can drive food out to your car as well if needed. Everyone please stay safe ,we love you all and we’ll do the cooking for ya.- Patrick Alberto

Share

Info

PC Tech 2U COVID-19 Statement

Hey, Friends of PC Tech 2U. Here are a few important updates amidst the COVID-19 news.Right now I know you are feeling the pressure to not go out and do anything unnecessary outside of the house. Some of you will have children or grandchildren to look after during the day when they would normally have childcare...We understand your frustration and the challenges that you are faced with. As a LOCAL small business, we are facing some challenges too.But we wanted to let you know... We are here for you.Please remember that we offer services (in-home services or in-office services) remotely for many of the tech issues you may need to be resolved.We can do almost anything remote, that we can do in our offices. We can always pick up/drop off as well.Because many of you will be at home more often, computers will be vitally important as far as communication is concerned.It's important to keep your computers in great shape. We can perform maintenance on them and get them in tip-top shape for you to prepare you against scams and viruses that are likely to pop up as a result of this worldwide situation.Your shares and spreading this important message for us will also help us drastically. Like I mentioned before, local businesses are facing some challenges as well. Please think of us. We will continue to innovate and help you through this as best as we can.–Robert, and the PC Tech 2U Team

Share

Info

BMO Harris Bank Center and Coronado PAC Events Postponed

Share

Info

BMO Harris Bank Center and Coronado PAC Events Postponed

Share

Info

No Joke MMA - All Scheduled Classes Remain OPEN

For now, all scheduled classes at No Joke MMA will be going forward and we are open for business.We are closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation with your safety in mind, implementing heightened hygiene protocols, and working to ensure the safety of students and staff at No Joke.We understand and appreciate your concern for your health and safety, as well as the health and safety of others.All that said: PLEASE STAY HOME IF YOU ARE SICK.Keeping our customers, staff, and family members safe is our highest priority.If you have any additional questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us.Thank you.

Share

Info

Roxy Carmichael is OPEN!

To all of our fabulous Roxy Carmichael Boutique Customers ~We wanted to let you know that we are maintaining our regular business hours.The safety of our customers and our staff is our number one concern. We are working hard to keep high touch areas such as counters, computer keyboard and door handles clean as well as washing our hands and using hand sanitizer.As a small business, we are always grateful and thankful for all of our wonderful customers that come in and support our local boutique. We will continue to provide a safe place to shop and hopefully a place for all our customers to escape from all the craziness, even if it is only for a little while❤️.See something you like on Facebook? Message us on FB or call us at 815-316-7396 to make your purchase.FREE SHIPPING if you’d like us to ship your order to you.Be safe, be healthy and thank you for shopping small, it really does make a difference.#roxycarmichael #local #shopsmall #healthy #rockford #thankful #boutique #freeshipping #buywbl

Share

Info

Spring ArtScene Cancelled

In accordance with Winnebago County Health Department’s recommendation that businesses, institutions, and organizations suspend nonessential public gatherings of 25 people or more, as a way to reduce and prevent community transmission of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), Rockford Area Arts Council is cancelling our biannual Spring ArtScene gallery walk, April 17 and 18, 2020.ArtScene galleries, restaurants, and venue hosts will have their checks voided and credit card payments and checks/cash payments will be reimbursed.ArtScene galleries, restaurants, and venue hosts are responsible for communicating to their hosted-artists regarding this cancellation.It is always tough to make decisions that affect so many adversely, however, the Rockford Area Arts Council is putting the health and well-being of our community first.The Arts Council will continue to be available, at 713 E. State Street, 9-5, 815-963-6765.We encourage our members and the community at large to call or email first, before stopping in, to avoid unnecessary exposure to one another.Mary McNamara BernstenExecutive DirectorRockford Area Arts Council

Share

Info

Rockford Public library COVID 19 Statement

RPL takes precautions to prevent spread of COVID-19 while continuing to serve Rockford residents.Adhering to County Health Dept. guidelines while continuing to provide library services.Rockford Public Library [RPL] is monitoring federal, state, and county agencies as the COVID-19 outbreak unfolds. As an important public space providing vital services to the community of Rockford, we will continue to evaluate and adjust our operations to best prioritize the health and well-being of Library Staff and patrons alike. While we currently remain open and are maintaining business as usual, we are taking reasonable precautions to decrease the spread of germs. Some of the sensible actions RPL is taking to minimize risk include, extra sanitization of hard surfaces, toys, puzzles and shared devices in the libraries, increasing social space where possible between computer terminals and reading areas, increased thorough hand-washing including before all children’s events, placement of hand sanitizers throughout the Library buildings, and urging both staff and patrons who are not well to stay home. In accordance with Winnebago County Health Dept. recommendations, some classes and events, system-wide that would serve groups in excess of 25 adults, as well as some events hosted by outside partners have been canceled. Please check RPL’s event calendar at : www.rockfordpubliclibrary.org/events for cancellations. All patrons who are registered for canceled events are automatically notified via email. For patrons looking for books and magazines to read, videos and programs to watch at home, please explore our digital collection through our website: Hoopla, Kanopy, Cloud Library, and RB Digital. For those looking to learn something new, please explore Scholastic GO, Rosetta Stone, and Universal Class. Rockford Public Library Cardholders can access all these databases and more through our website at: https://www.rockfordpubliclibrary.org/a-to-z-all-databases/For more information, please call the Friends at 815-966-2721 or email: friendsofrpl@gmail.com. While RPL currently remains open, the situation is changing quickly, so please stay posted for updates. About the LibraryThe Rockford Public Library, founded in 1872 as the second library in Illinois, currently has six facilities, including a performing arts and training center (Nordlof Center), the Hart Interim Library and four Branch Libraries. Rockford Public Library informs, educates, entertains, and provides cultural enrichment to the people of our community.

Share

Info

RPS 205 Closed Through March 30

We learned today of Gov. J.B. Pritzker's announcement to close schools through Monday, March 30, with a possible extension. Administrators, principals and staff have been working on plans for several weeks in case of the spread of COVID-19 to our area. While closing schools isn't ideal for teaching and learning, we will make the best of it together. We're working closely with the Winnebago County Health Department and the Illinois State Board of Education, and we will continue to prioritize the safety of our students and staff. We will continue to work with our community partners to provide meals and other support services to students, despite the interruption. Next week is Spring Break, so students and staff were already prepared for a much-deserved break. In the coming days, we will provide more information to our families and staff about our next steps. At this point, our district is not set up for e-learning. Administrators and staff have been compiling a list of resources for families in case of extended time away from school. We'll share more information – including those resources – through our usual communication channels when it's available. This will be difficult, but I know we can work through it together and continue to put students first.Sincerely, Dr. Ehren JarrettSuperintendentRockford Public Schools

Share

Info

Midway Village Museum Operations And The COVID-19 Virus

Midway Village Museum is closely monitoring and preparing its operations as the COVID-19 outbreak continues in Illinois. At Midway Village Museum, our goal is to keep staff, volunteers and the public safe. In keeping in compliance with both Gov. JB Pritzker’s announcement yesterday to cancel events of more than 1,000 people, and the Winnebago County Health Department’s recommendation to cancel or suspend gathering of more than 25 people attending, effective immediately is a revised schedule of museum activities and special events until May 1, 2020. No Changes In Schedule19th Amendment Anniversary Storytime at Rockford Public Library Rockton Centre Branch Saturday, March 14, 2020Women’s Suffrage Centennial LecturesSunday, March 15, 2020Jason’s Deli Restaurant FundraiserWednesday, March 18, 2020 From Minks to Sinks Rummage SaleThursday, April 16, 17, 18, 2020PostponedSilent Film Saturday – New Date and Time To Be DeterminedCancelled World War I School Day ProgramEducational Field TripFriday, April 3, 2020 World War I: The Great WarSaturday, April 4 and Sunday, April 5, 2020Two-Day Public EventCivil War Hands-On History ProgramEducation Field Trip ProgramApril 28 - May 1, 2020Main Museum Center Is OpenThe museum’s Main Museum Center is open during regular hours at this time. If current situations change, the museum will adjust its operational schedule of the Main Museum Center, and communicate changes as these may develop. The staff at the museum is following Center for Disease Control guidelines to avoid further spread of the virus:Stay home if you are sickIndividuals at high risk with health issues or those over 80 to suspend activity until further notice including volunteers or others affiliated with the museumIndividuals over the age of 60 to assess personal health issues and proceed with activities with caution including volunteers or others affiliated with the museumCover your coughs and sneezesWash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 secondsClean frequently touched surfaces and objectsAs a travel destination-facility, the museum is also taking precautions for all its facility visitors by:encouraging hand sanitizing with increased hand washing stationsstaff preparedness and reducing customer/staff contact with gloves or other barriers when appropriatereducing crowding at events by modifying event logistics and space when appropriate with social distancing as recommended of up to 6-feet apartincreased number of hand washing stations and hand sanitizers, along with an increased schedule of cleaning surface areas, such as service areas, tables and restrooms.We ask each group or individual to personally assess your own situations and health when deciding to actively participate in museum activities and special events. The safety of our community, and all those who visit and are part of the museum team remains our highest priority. The museum will provide updates on its operations to staff, visitors, re-enactors, educators, members, volunteers and others affiliated with museum operations. If you have further questions, please contact the staff you work directly with at the museum, or call the main phone number at 815-397-9112 and your call will directed to the appropriate person.

Share

Info

Cry it Out Cancels Performances after Thursday’s Performance

In accordance with Winnebago County Health Department’s recommendation that businesses, institutions, and organizations suspend all public gatherings of 25 people or more, Artists’ Ensemble Theater is closing there current production of Cry It Out after tonight’s (Thursday) performance. Tonight's (Thursday) performance will be the final performance of Cry it Out. If patrons to tonight's performance wish to cancel their reservation we understand. Please call the box office and we will gladly transfer that ticket to a performance of Jeeves Saves the Day in May at no charge. Patrons who hold tickets to the rest of this weekend or next weekend can call the box office and we will gladly transfer that ticket to a performance of Jeeves Saves the Day in May at no charge. It is always sad closing a show. Closing like this is hard, but the health and well-being of our community has to come first. Our box office will be busy so please be patient. AE Box office: (815) 394-5004 Cry It Out is funded by grants from The Community Foundation of Northern Illionois and The Rockford Area Arts Council.

Share

Info

American Hockey League Announces Suspension of 2019-20 Season

With the health and safety of our players, officials, staff and fans of primary importance, the American Hockey League has announced the suspension of play until further notice, effective immediately, due to concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic.The AHL will continue to monitor developments and will provide updates on the 2019-20 season at the appropriate time.

Share

Info

Rockford Art Museum statement about COVID-19

In response to the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), we want you to know that the museum is currently open and taking all appropriate precautions recommended by the Centers for Disease Control, Winnebago County Health Department and the City of Rockford to keep visitors and staff healthy. As of March 12, WCHD and Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara have recommended that local businesses and organizations suspend public gatherings of 25 people or more. Because of this, Rockford Art Museum will stay open until further notice, although we are cancelling events, programs and classes for this weekend and the upcoming week: We have RESCHEDULED the ART X FUNDRAISER for FRIDAY, JULY 17 (originally scheduled for Friday, March 13). Ticketholders are being notified they have the option to keep their tickets or be refunded. We have CANCELED the opening reception for the 79TH YOUNG ARTIST SHOW: HIGH SCHOOL DIVISION (originally scheduled for Sunday, March 15, 1–3 pm). The exhibit itself is on view at the museum through April 11.Below are the precautionary measures the museum has implemented, along with some reminders about common sense and using your own discretion: We have increased the sanitation of all public spaces and communal objects (door handles, railings). Hand sanitizers are available throughout the building at the front desk. We ask that if you have flu-like symptoms or cause to believe you have been exposed to the virus to remain at home and avoid public spaces.We encourage everyone to take the normal precautions recommended for navigating cold and flu season, including social distancing, adhering to coughing and sneezing etiquette, and frequent and proper hand washing. The museum is constantly monitoring news and recommendations, as they update so quickly. Please regularly check our website, rockfordartmuseum.org, and Facebook page, facebook.com/rockfordartmuseum, for updates. Thank you for your support. Carrie Johnson Executive Director/Curator p.s. Need an art fix from home? Download our free mobile app and go behind the scenes with us, where you’ll find artist-led gallery walks, curator talks and more. # # # About Rockford Art Museum: Founded in 1913, Rockford Art Museum exists to enrich the quality of life in the Rockford region through a permanent art collection, frequent art exhibitions, and lifelong art education. 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.

Share

Info

IceHogs and BMO Harris Bank Make Donation to Carlson Elementary

The Rockford IceHogs have partnered with BMO Harris Bank to promote the importance of living a healthy lifestyle for the students at Carlson Elementary School in Rockford.Together, the IceHogs and BMO Harris Bank donated over 400 drink tumblers that will allow every student and staff member at the school to stay hydrated throughout the day. IceHogs mascot, Hammy, joined representatives from the team as well as BMO Harris Bank to speak to the children about the value of staying active and maintaining a healthy diet.Earlier this year, Carlson Elementary endured a period where it was limited to just one drinking fountain for 350 students before renovations added a second fountain that came with a water bottle filling feature. The IceHogs and BMO Harris Bank then stepped up by donating tumblers to ensure each child and faculty member can have water all day.“I am overwhelmed with excitement for this very generous gesture,” Kristina Miller, principal of Carlson Elementary School, said. “I love seeing our community reaching out for the benefit of our students. I was pleasantly surprised with the addition and tumblers for our students. They ensure that all our students and staff have access to water throughout the day to be hydrated and focused on learning!”The IceHogs and BMO Harris Bank have teamed up for several different initiatives in the past, including building an outdoor learning center at Washington Elementary School, building a playground at RocVale Children’s Home and several sock drives to benefit Project Undershare.Building a sustainable future is one of the main pillars of BMO’s company purpose statement to “Boldly Grow the Good in business and life,” along with supporting a thriving economy and an inclusive society. BMO's leadership on sustainability has been recognized on numerous rankings, including the Dow Jones Sustainability Index and Ethisphere® Institute's list of the World's Most Ethical Companies®.About BMO Harris BankBMO Harris Bank provides a broad range of personal banking products and solutions through more than 500 branches and fee-free access to over 40,000 ATMs across the United States. BMO Harris Bank's commercial banking team provides a combination of sector expertise, local knowledge and mid-market focus throughout the United States. For more information about BMO Harris Bank, visit the company fact sheet. Accounts are subject to approval. BMO Harris Bank N.A. Member FDIC. BMO Harris Bank is part of BMO Financial Group, a highly diversified financial services provider with total assets of CDN$880 billion, as of January 31, 2020.

Share

Info

Recents

Positive News, Stories, & Rockford Buzz Polls

Page 19 | Positive Stories & Articles | Rockford IL

Rockford Region Celebrates Census Day April 1

Share this post

Rockford Region Celebrates Census Day April 1

Rockford Area Restaurants Offering Delivery or Carry Out!

Share this post

Rockford Area Restaurants Offering Delivery or Carry Out!

Loan Program to Help Small Business Owners

Share this post

Loan Program to Help Small Business Owners

What Shelter-In-Place Means For You

Share this post

What Shelter-In-Place Means For You

COVID-19 Information

Share this post

COVID-19 Information

Rockford Public Library will be offering remote services ONLY through April 7, 2020

Share this post

Rockford Public Library will be offering remote services ONLY through April 7, 2020

The Ultimate Guide to Working From Home

Share this post

The Ultimate Guide to Working From Home

Rockford Area Restaurants Offering Delivery or Carry Out!

Share this post

Rockford Area Restaurants Offering Delivery or Carry Out!

Discovery Center Museum to close

Share this post

Discovery Center Museum to close

COVID-19 Closure Update: Rockford Art Museum temporarily closed, effective 5 p.m., Saturday, March 14

Share this post

COVID-19 Closure Update: Rockford Art Museum temporarily closed, effective 5 p.m., Saturday, March 14

Octane is OPEN!

Share this post

Octane is OPEN!

PC Tech 2U COVID-19 Statement

Share this post

PC Tech 2U COVID-19 Statement

BMO Harris Bank Center and Coronado PAC Events Postponed

Share this post

BMO Harris Bank Center and Coronado PAC Events Postponed

BMO Harris Bank Center and Coronado PAC Events Postponed

Share this post

BMO Harris Bank Center and Coronado PAC Events Postponed

No Joke MMA - All Scheduled Classes Remain OPEN

Share this post

No Joke MMA - All Scheduled Classes Remain OPEN

Roxy Carmichael is OPEN!

Share this post

Roxy Carmichael is OPEN!

Spring ArtScene Cancelled

Share this post

Spring ArtScene Cancelled

Rockford Public library COVID 19 Statement

Share this post

Rockford Public library COVID 19 Statement

RPS 205 Closed Through March 30

Share this post

RPS 205 Closed Through March 30

Midway Village Museum Operations And The COVID-19 Virus

Share this post

Midway Village Museum Operations And The COVID-19 Virus

Cry it Out Cancels Performances after Thursday’s Performance

Share this post

Cry it Out Cancels Performances after Thursday’s Performance

American Hockey League Announces Suspension of 2019-20 Season

Share this post

American Hockey League Announces Suspension of 2019-20 Season

Rockford Art Museum statement about COVID-19

Share this post

Rockford Art Museum statement about COVID-19

IceHogs and BMO Harris Bank Make Donation to Carlson Elementary

Share this post

IceHogs and BMO Harris Bank Make Donation to Carlson Elementary

Get Your Business, Events, & Deals On Rockford Buzz

Thank You to Our Amazing Sponsors

Platinum Sponsors

Greenlink Energy Solutions

Historic Auto Attractions