Positive News, Stories, & Rockford Buzz Polls

From the North Pole to Northwest; Northwest Community Center is proud to host a Breakfast with Santa to the Rockford community. This event is free for all and will feature breakfast, free haircuts for children, activities, and a photo with Santa Claus.Please join us Saturday, December 16, 2023 from 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at 1325 N. Johnston Ave. and take part in this fun event which is presented in partnership with Molina Healthcare, Awaken Foundation,  Fine Mindz Inc., La Jefa’s Multicultural Barber Shop, Rockford Public Library, Aetna Better Health of Illinois, Kendel Sherman Foundation, Rock Valley College, and Midland States Bank.Additionally, Northwest Community Center has turned 75! Northwest has proudly served the residents of Rockford for 75 years and is celebrating its diamond anniversary 2023-2024.For more information about Northwest Community Center, visit www.northwestrockford.org.

There is a new brunch spot in town and it deserves a spot on your regular rotation! Octane has introduced their new Filipino style brunch, and you have to try it. From sweet to savory, the new menu has something everyone will enjoy.  Let's start with the Pan de Sal & Gravy: a pan de sal roll, longganissa sausage gravy, pan de sal bacon, 2 fried eggs, and house fries. If you have never had this filipino inspired biscuits and gravy, you are in for a treat! The pan de sal roll is a Filipino breakfast staple that is airy, sweet, and shines as part of this dish. The sausage is made in-house and added to the most amazing gravy. This savory sauce is not only beautiful but delicious. The flavor is out of this world. Topped with two over-easy eggs and served with bacon and fries, you might just fall in love with this dish... we sure did.Next up was the Cornsilog: corned beef, garlic rice, 2 fried eggs, and fried hashbrowns. Meat lovers rejoice! The corned beef was piled high on a plate of Octane's delicious garlic rice. The corned beef is locally sourced and prepared perfectly. The over-easy eggs added a delicious golden sauce to the rice, and the fried hashbrowns added a delicate crunch to each bite. This savory dish was amazing and filling. Octane brings a bottle of house made garlic aioli to your table and we highly recommend adding it to your meal. It was absolutely delicious.Last, but absolutely not least, we tried the hot cakes! These fluffy silver dollar sized sweet cakes knocked it out of the park. The vanilla flavor made these stand out. If you prefer a sweet treat for breakfast, this is absolutely the way to go. Served with sausage or bacon, this is the perfect breakfast for those of us with a sweet tooth. But seriously... they're so fluffy!!You love Octane for dinner, and now you can love them for brunch too! Grab your friends and family and head to Octane for brunch every Saturday. See you there, Rockford!

It's another walk down Memory Lane as AET celebrates our 20th season with scenes, stories, and songs from past holiday shows. This is a pay-what-you-can event. No tickets, no reservations, just a donation jar. There are just two performances of Holiday Havoc — 7:30 Fri. Dec. 15 and 4:00 Sat. Dec. 16 This is a pay-what-you-can performance, so no tickets to buy and no reservations to make. We do recommend coming early to get a seat. The cast includes Tim Anderson, Patte Armato-Lund, John Chase, Ian Garthwaite, David A. Gingerich, Margaret & Richard Raether, Lisa Turbyville, and Gary Wingert. David A, Gingerich AE Holiday Havoc will be performed 7:30 Fri. Dec. 15 and 4:00 Sat. Dec. 16 in the Cheek Theatre in the Clark Arts Center at Rockford University. There are no tickets to purchase. This is a pay-what-you-canperformance. For more information call the AE box office 815-394-5004. Holiday Havoc is family friendly, recommended for age 10 and up. Artists’ Ensemble is the state line area’s resident professional theater performing in residence at Rockford University.

Discovery Center Museum announced Executive Director Sarah Wolf will retire at the end of January 2024 after leading the museum for 43 years. Wolf was one of the founders of the children’s museum and is its first and only executive director.Sarah Wolf led the museum through many changes and substantial growth, from humble beginnings in the old Rockford Post Office to a nationally recognized children’s museum. Publications like USA Today, Forbes, Child Magazine, Family Vacation Critic, Family Fun Magazine and Reader’s Digest have all listed Discovery Center as one of the top children’s museums in the nation."Sarah has been an outstanding leader and a tireless advocate for informal education and the importance of play in the Rockford Region," said James DiVerde, Chair of Discovery Center’s Board of Directors. "For more than 40 years, her vision and dedication to providing educational opportunities for children has touched the lives of countless people and transformed Discovery Center from an improbable endeavor into a nationally recognized museum beloved by children, parents, grandparents, and educators,” DiVerde added.Rockford Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Ehren Jarrett explained, “During my 13 years leading Rockford Public Schools, Sarah Wolf stands out among the community leaders who consistently make a positive impact. She tirelessly advocates for students, including arranging field trips to the Discovery Center and creating opportunities for extended learning throughout the year. Her commitment to RPS staff, students, and families has truly made a difference. I’m immensely grateful for her years of dedicated leadership and service.” When asked about Sarah Wolf’s legacy, John Groh, president/CEO of the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau had this to say: “When I think of Sarah Wolf, I think of a young mom and teacher who simply wanted to improve the educational opportunities for local children and along the way created one of the finest children’s museums in the country. Over the years, Sarah and her team have welcomed more than 5 million visitors and residents to the museum, making it one of Rockford’s top visitor destinations and generating significant tourism spending in the community. As she retires, Sarah will give away the credit for the museum’s growth and success to others. However, without Sarah’s indomitable spirit, her relentless drive for quality, her deep love for children and her creative ability to solve problems and seize opportunities the Discovery Center Museum would not be the crown jewel of Rockford’s museum community or the national model of excellence it is today.” Under Sarah Wolf’s direction, Discovery Center Museum: Welcomed almost five million visitors and served almost 6.5 million children and families including its school and outreach programs since its opening in 1981. Transformed into a major tourism destination. Successfully completed two major capital campaigns. The first campaign centered on the transformation of a downtown Sears building into a museum campus in 1991. The second campaign allowed Discovery Center to expand its exhibit and classroom space, create new exhibits, and build a shared exhibition hall with Burpee Museum in 2010. Created the nation’s first community-built outdoor science park in 1991. The park, situated behind Discovery Center on the banks of the Rock River, has received numerous accolades. It was built by thousands of volunteers over the course of several weeks. Participated in a seven-museum national collaborative that developed science-based traveling exhibitions that toured the country. Known as TEAMS, the collaborative received four National Science Foundation grants in recognition of the excellence of their work. Formed long-term partnerships with NASA, providing access to information, funding, and resources to excite and inform children about space-related topics. Established Fun for Everyone events (for children with disabilities and their families) and mentor memberships (for area social service agencies serving children and families), providing opportunities for hundreds of people to enjoy free visits to Discovery Center. Established an endowment program for the museum currently valued at approximately $1 million. “It has been my privilege and pleasure to work with so many dedicated and skilled board members, staff, and volunteers over the years,” said Sarah Wolf. “I am proud of all we accomplished together.” Sarah Wolf grew up in Belleville, Illinois, and earned a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Illinois as well as a master’s degree in education from Northern Illinois University. She is co-editor of the book, Handbook for Small Science Centers. Wolf is married, has two sons and daughters-in-law, and four grandchildren. Upon her retirement, she looks forward to spending more time with her family and continuing her work with Alignment Rockford. Wolf has helped position Discovery Center to attract a successor who will guide the museum into the next stage of its evolution and expand on its role as a leader in playful learning.Discovery Center Museum is committed to continuing Sarah Wolf’s legacy. The museum’s Board of Directors has formed a search committee and is actively working to identify her successor.

The holidays are upon us and you might be looking for a delicious meal with loved ones. Head to Greenfire at 6795 E Riverside Blvd, Rockford, IL 61114 for a fresh luxury local experience.  Greenfire has been serving culinary classics for years now. With a menu that covers fine dining, gourmet burgers, pasta, and wood-fired pizza, your holiday group's preferences are covered.We started with the Duck Confit: slow-roasted duck breast with garlic mashed potatoes, asparagus, and blackberry gastrique. The duck had the perfect crisp skin and tender, juicy dark meat. The blackberry gastrique added that touch of sweet to the savory duck. The fresh asparagus complimented the garlic mashed potatoes (which are fabulous!). This dish was filling and beautifully presented.Next up was the Braised Beef Short Rib: slow-roast beef short rib with garlic mashed potatoes and farm vegetables. This hearty cut of beef short rib just melts in your mouth. Aus jus is ladled over this dish, giving a savory addition to your potatoes and keeping each bite juicy. The farm vegetables are so fresh and crisp. The variety is delicious: beets, peppers, broccoli, carrots, and more. All roasted together and dusted with a large ground salt. The dish feels rich with every bite.We highly encourage you to stay for dessert! You can't go wrong with Greenfire's top notch bakery. You deserve it, so indulge!  Enjoy your next evening out at Greenfire. See you there, Rockford!

Capri Restaurant, a family-owned Italian eatery that has been serving the community of Rockford for over 58 years, is getting ready to move to a new location on Riverside Boulevard. The purchase of the new premises, the former Shell gas station situated at 6480 E. Riverside Blvd., has been finalized by the restaurant's owners. The new location will offer more space and better accessibility for customers, as well as ample parking.The owners are eager to begin the renovation and remodeling process of the new premises in order to have the restaurant up and running as soon as possible. They plan to start the demolition work right away, with the aim of opening a carryout service in the near future. The owners have also announced that they intend to open a full dine-in restaurant at the new location in the coming year.Capri Restaurant has been a cherished part of the downtown Rockford community since it first opened its doors in 1963. The restaurant has become a local institution known for its delicious, authentic Italian cuisine, and its welcoming atmosphere. Capri Restaurant's loyal customer base is excited to see what the future holds for this beloved establishment.

Discovery Center has the perfect solution for stress-free holiday shoppingROCKFORD, IL. – With the holiday season in full swing, the question of what to get each person on the list looms large. For holiday shoppers hoping to find the perfect gift for young scientists, engineers, or anyone with natural curiosity, Discovery Center has several answers:1.     A gift from the museum gift shopEnjoy relaxing, inspired shopping in the Discoveries to Go museum gift shop. For those wanting to encourage future minds with activities and toys that spur wonder and curiosity about the world around us, Discovery Center’s gift shop has the answer! The gift shop offers an inspired collection of items ranging from science kits and space toys to puzzles, books, plush animals, jewelry, and more. Enjoy extra savings during the holiday sale from December 1 – 17. Members will receive a 25% discount and the Public will receive 15% off their total gift shop purchase! The gift shop is open Tuesday– Sunday from 9:30 am- 4:30 pm. 2.     A Gift MembershipFor the child in your life who has more toys than he/she knows what to do with, a membership to Discovery Center is the perfect answer. This “experience” gift gives a family 365 days of playful learning and family memories. An annual membership ($135 for a basic family or grandparent membership) also entitles the owner to discounts on classes, camps, birthday parties, and rentals; invitations to members-only events, discounts in the gift shop and free or reduced admission to more than 300 museums across the country! Purchase a membership online at http://www.discoverycentermuseum.org/exhibits/give-the-gift-of-membership or call 815-963-6769.   3.     A Gift CertificateWhy is a gift certificate to Discovery Center a great choice? You’ve got no worries about slow shipping, they work for any budget, and can be purchased onsite or online! Gift certificates can be made in any amount and be used for a day visit, classes, gift shop purchase, or toward a membership. Purchase a gift certificate online at https://www.discoverycentermuseum.org/visit/gift-certificates or call 815-963-6769. 

Rockford Rescue Mission has received a $36,641 grant to provide child care while residents and guests rebuild their lives in the Mission’s Works! Center. The grant was awarded by the Dr. Louis and Violet Rubin Fund of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois.Through the Works! Center and local partnerships, the Mission provides free education, vocational training and certifications in various career specialties. But many of the women who use these services are moms who also need child care. They are in desperate circumstances: homelessness, chemical dependency, domestic violence or destructive relationships — not to mention simply being unemployed or underemployed. Most arrive with no hope of finding, or being able to afford, quality child care on their own.“For moms in our care, child care costs represent a barrier to finding their way out,” said Sherry Pitney, Rockford Rescue Mission CEO. “This grant from the Community Foundation is a true blessing because it removes that barrier.”The Mission contracts with the YMCA of Rock River Valley to provide child care four mornings a week at the Mission. Meanwhile, their moms take life-skills classes and receive help finding employment and housing — moving from desperation and dependence toward wholeness and stability.Rockford Rescue Mission is the Rock River Valley’s primary provider of homeless services, including crisis care, career training, health care and Life Recovery programs. The Mission has served individuals and families since 1964.The Mission of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois is to inspire endowment and philanthropy for the current and future needs of the people of northern Illinois. Since its founding in 1953, the CFNIL has granted more than $85 million for charitable purposes. Learn more about CFNIL’s history, grantmaking and commitment to endowment at cfnil.org.

The second annual 815HORTS: A 5HORT Film Festival, presented by the City of Rockford + Rockford Film Office, returns this Saturday, December 2, with an expanded line-up highlighted by 13 acclaimed short 815HORTS films, an Oscar-nominated featured guest, the Sundance Film Festival Short Film Tour, educational content, and more. To help get prepped for the film festivities, the 815HORTS event week quick facts are here to help prep for Saturday’s show: ▪ Great Seats: General admission tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students with ID (under 17 requires adult supervision). Attendees are encouraged to purchase tickets online ahead of time (atthe-door sales will be accepted as available). Re-entry will be allowed for ticketed guests. Visit www.815HORTS.com or https://filmfreeway.com/815HORTS/tickets to buy your tickets! ▪ 13 5HORT Films: During 815HORTS, 13 acclaimed short films will be screened during the 815HORTS Matinees block at 3 p.m. and 815HORTS Prime Time features at 7 p.m.. Genres include suspense, comedy, documentary, thriller, and music video. ▪ Bing Liu Returns Home: Academy Award-nominated filmmaker and Rockford native Bing Liu is back home this weekend as a featured guest. Liu’s latest short film titled “What the Hands Do” will make its Rockford premiere during the 7 p.m. Prime Time block, after which Liu will be interviewed onstage by Illinois Film Office director Peter Hawley during the 5HORT Talk interview series. And, yes, we will be taking questions from the audience! ▪ Lunch + Learn: With the purchase of a general admission ticket to 815HORTS, The 5HORT Route: Building a Career Through Short Films is a free lunch and learn session exclusive to the first 50 registrants. The 5HORT Route will be held from 12-2 p.m. at City Stage Studios (821 First Avenue, Rockford, IL 61104), where attendees will learn about leveraging the art of short filmmaking to help create a successful career arc. Limited space remains. To reserve your Lunch + Learn spot, purchase your GA 815HORTS ticket and email Nick@PlusSevenCompany.com. ▪ Sundance is Back: For the second-straight year, 815HORTS welcomes the world’s most prestigious film festival brand back to the Forest City with a screening of the 2023 Sundance Film Festival Short Film Tour. This year’s Sundance Shorts Tour features seven films from the 2023 Sundance Film Festival, including two Sundance award winners. The Sundance Shorts Tour screening is set for 5 p.m. Saturday (between the 815HORTS Matinees (3 p.m.) and Prime Time (7 p.m.) blocks). ▪ Tacos for Dinner: Guests are encouraged to have dinner onsite, as the Olivo Taco food truck will be on hand from 5-7 p.m. outside the box office entrance of the RPL Nordlof Center. ▪ Drinks for Sale: If you’re thirsty, District Bar & Grill will have a variety of drinks for purchase at the RPL Nordlof Center lobby bar throughout the day and evening. ▪ And the Winner Is…: The 5HORT Awards will close the evening by recognizing 2023 winners for Best 5HORT (Best in Show) and Best Local/Regional 5HORT. The award show is scheduled to begin at approximately 9:30 p.m. (Note: Program times may vary.) ▪ Giving Back: As the Rockford Public Library (RPL) Foundation is our nonprofit partner, a portion of the event’s net proceeds will benefit the RPL Foundation’s film related youth programs! For more information, visit www.815HORTS.com and follow @p7company / @PlusSevenCompany on social. -MORE- Plus Seven Company | PlusSevenCompany.com Page 2 of 2, 815HORTS: A 5HORT Film Festival – The Quick Facts 815HORTS PARTNERS Plus Seven Company would like to thank the following partners and individuals for supporting 815HORTS: ▪ Presenting Partners: City of Rockford + Rockford Film Office ▪ Premier Partner: Illinois Film Office ▪ Supporting Partner: Ron Clewer ▪ In-Kind Partners: RPL Nordlof Center/Rockford Public Library, City Stage Studios, District Bar & Grill ▪ Nonprofit Partner: Rockford Public Library Foundation ▪ Special Thanks: Dena Altamore, Don Hatton, Peter Hawley, Jerry LaBuy, Bing Liu, Josiah Sjöström ABOUT PLUS SEVEN COMPANY Plus Seven Company delivers winning events and experiences with expertise in brand building, partnerships, public relations, and tourism advisory. Visit www.PlusSevenCompany.com for more information. Contact: Nick Povalitis, Plus Seven Company, Nick@PlusSevenCompany.com, 815.708.1644.

The African-American Resource Center at Booker (AARCB) is a non-profit organization serving the community for over one hundred seven years. The center is located in the southwest quadrant of Rockford, Illinois. AARCB provides services and resources to families through its MISSION of utilizing education, art recreation, mentorship and cultural programs to create an environment that promote and enhance the quality of life by celebrating the achievements and improving the welfare of our community members.

We headed out to Scoreboard Bar by Hoffman House to enjoy a great meal and traditional sports bar atmosphere. With tons of TVs, you won't miss a single play while you happily sip and munch on your meal.First up, a classic... mozzarella sticks! I mean, cheese in any form is a crowd pleaser. These are fried to golden perfection and come out hot and melty. Served with marinara sauce, this appetizer flies off the table.Next up, the Hoffman House Shaved Prime Rib sandwich with mushrooms and onions on a hoagie bun with au jus. This massive sandwich takes two hands and a big appetite to finish. The bread is sturdy enough to go the distance with you as you enjoy this fabulous creation. Dip to your heart's content in the au jus and enjoy the flavor of the prime rib. This decadent sandwich is served with your choice of side.  They also have dinner specials! We ordered the Golden Fried Shrimp, jumbo golf shrimp thick battered and fried, and served with Hoffman House cocktail sauce. Coming with soup or salad, and a side, this dinner is filling and delicious. The thick batter adds a hearty flavor to the perfectly fried shrimp.Whether you want traditional bar snacks, or an elevated dinner experience, Scoreboard can serve your needs. Stop on in the next time you are looking for a local experience on East State Street. See you there, Rockford!

Stepping Stones of Rockford, Inc. is proud to announce that it has received a $11,730.00 grant from the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois Grants Program, with support from the Dr. Louis and Violet Rubin Fund, to purchase Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) which will be installed in several of the organization’s facilities. The Benefits of the Grant: According to Dr. Myron Weisfeldt of John Hopkins University, the use of AEDs before emergency medical services arrive (by bystanders), saves about 1,700 lives per year in the United States and having them available could possibly save another 500 lives. The AEDs funded by the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois will provide a great deal of comfort to the staff at Steppig Stones knowing these devices are available to help save lives at our facilities in the unfortunate incident that a person needs a shock. The AEDs will be placed in eleven facilities and will serve as important risk management tools in the event of their need. Susan Schroeder, CEO, LCSW of Stepping Stones of Rockford, Inc. said about the grant: “I was so pleased the trustees of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois recognized the value of funding our grant request to help Stepping Stones install AEDs in our facilities. The installation of these devices means we will have another method to help save the life of a person who is in need of a shock until emergency medical services personnel arrive.“ About Stepping Stones of Rockford, Inc.: Stepping Stones of Rockford, Inc. is a private 501 ( c ) ( 3 ) nonprofit behavioral healthcare organization that provides mental health services to children aged six and older and youth with severe emotional disturbances and housing and psychiatric rehabilitation services to adults with serious mental illnesses. Since beginning as a single halfway house in 1969, Stepping Stones has grown to become northern Illinois’ leading provider of residential programs designed to meet the housing and recovery needs of adults with mental illnesses. To learn more about Stepping Stones, please visit https://steppingstonesrockford.org. About the AED Project: The AEDs funded by the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois will be installed in the organization’s facilities. Clinical staff will receive training on the use of the devices as part of their initial CPR/First Aid training and during their on-going re-certification sessions. About the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois: The mission of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (CFNIL) is to inspire endowment and provide philanthropy for the current and future needs of the people of Northern Illinois. Since its founding in 1953, CFNIL has granted over $85 million for charitable purposes. Learn more about CFNIL’s grantmaking and commitment to endowment at cfnil.org.  

Baked Wings, located at 6390 E Riverside Blvd, Loves Park, IL 61111, is celebrating one year in business! We stopped in to try the pun-inspired food and great atmosphere.When you walk into Baked Wings, you can head to the counter to place your order and then find a table. If you opt for the bar seating, you can order directly from the bar. Large TVs featuring the game of the hour are hung above the bar and ready to entertain you.We couldn't decide whether to get baked or get smashed... so we opted for both. Good times were had by all 😂. This pun-inspired theme is fun and woven into the restaurant menu and decor. Baked Wings features wings that are baked instead of fried for a delicious wing experience. The dusts aren't just for the wings. You can add them to the fries and other sides as well. For the record, hot buffalo fries are a new favorite around here.We tried a Hen Held, the Nashville Hot: a tender chicken breast (seared or hand battered) with Nashville hot sauce, coleslaw, garlic aioli, and pickles on a brioche bun. This delicious sandwich isn't a burner. Fans of a milder burn can enjoy this one for the flavor. The coleslaw is made fresh and the flavors melt together perfectly in this saucy sandwich. The chicken is so tender and juicy. No dry birds around here!Next, we got smashed with the Honey Pit: 2 Smashed Beef Patties, Honey BBQ Rub, Two Slices Of Cheddar Cheese, Crispy Onion Rings, Wake and Bake BBQ Sauce On A Toasted Potato Bun. This burger is stacked high and a true masterpiece. The sweet BBQ sauce brings all the elements together in harmony. Featuring Baked Wings onion rings, this burger is fantastic and a crowd favorite.Whether you decide to get smashed or baked at Baked Wings, you can't go wrong! Stop in and celebrate their first year in business with your favorite dish. See you there, Rockford!

If you haven't been to Potato Shak... what have you been doing for breakfast all these years? Potato Shak, located at 5529 N 2nd St, Loves Park, has been a community staple for decades and is serving up an amazing diner experience.We tried to order as much as possible because it's all so delicious! But we narrowed it down to a few dishes. We started with the savory side: steak and eggs, and biscuits and gravy. If you love a good biscuit and gravy, this is the place! The biscuits had the perfect texture. They weren't dry or chewy at all. They tasted freshly baked and delicious. The gravy you can tell is made in house, and the flavor is spot on. You can't go wrong with this classic dish. The steak and eggs is a great dish for the meat and potato fan at the table. The steak is cooked to your preferred temperature and served with eggs made your way.I love it when a breakfast spot serves amazing bacon that knocks your socks off. We ordered crispy, and we got crispy. I think I've made my point. And we couldn't talk about Potato Shak without... potatoes! Enjoy your generous serving of American fries with many of their popular breakfast, or order a side to add to your meal of choice. You won't regret these delicious spuds.We moved on to the sweeter side of things with pancakes and french toast. The french toast was covered in delicious batter and the huge pancakes were cooked to golden brown perfection. Served with butter and syrup, these are a sweet start to any day.Potato Shak is cash only, but they do have an ATM on-site for your convenience. Whether you are a regular, or trying it for the first time, we hope you have an awesome breakfast and enjoy the wonderful staff at Potato Shak for your next breakfast. See you there, Rockford!

ANNOUNCING THE ANNIE’S LOCKER ENDOWMENT FUND: BENEFITING ROCKFORD BARBELL AND GIRLS ON THE RUN NORTHWEST ILLINOISROCKFORD, IL: Annie’s Locker was started in 2008, inspired by a fellow runner who died from cancer and who, while battling cancer, asked for one thing: "Please run for me until I can run again." The idea was born to do something to inspire people toward a healthier lifestyle, and to remove barriers so that more people can find their "wings". For fourteen years, Annie's Locker collected donations of new and gently used fitness apparel and equipment, as well as cash donations, and made grants of both equipment and dollars to local groups and causes to help achieve their mission: "Inspiring and equipping people to lead healthier lives."Annie's Locker accomplished incredible work as an all-volunteer endeavor. In 2022 the Annie's Locker board approached the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (CFNIL) to consider ways to continue their mission through a partnership that would ensure the good work would continue, whether or not there were volunteers with the time and energy to devote. The result of those conversations was the establishment of Annie's Locker Fund, a permanent endowment that will support the work of two local organizations removing barriers to fitness participation and improving the health of youth in our community: Girls on the Run Northwest Illinois and Rockford Barbell. While GOTR and Rockford Barbell have very different programs, they are each uniquely poised to help "inspire and equip people to lead healthier lives."Members of the media are invited to attend a press conference on Wednesday, November 15, at 4:30pm at Rockford Barbell (213 N 3rd St, Rockford), when representatives from Annie’s Locker, CFNIL, Girls on the Run, and Rockford Barbell will officially announce the Annie’s Locker Fund and share what this partnership means for each organization. Rockford Barbell youth participants will also be on hand. Interviews and photo opportunities with participants and representatives are welcomed!Rockford Barbell’s mission is to improve the social and emotional functioning of school-age kids through mindful movement and trauma-informed practices. Rockford Barbell’s Youth Weightlifting and Yoga Programs address the competencies of social-emotional learning to help youth developresilience, improve mental health, physical development, and social-emotional outcomes for youth by teaching and modeling principles of self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Rockford Barbell’s programs utilize a trauma-informed approach, helping youth learn to be physically and emotionally safe, to connect with others, and to regulate their minds and bodies effectively.Girls on the Run offers programs designed to inspire girls of all abilities to recognize and embrace their inner strength and make meaningful connections with others. Trained coaches use physical activity and dynamic discussions to build social, emotional, and physical skills while encouraging healthy habits for life. Girls on the Run Northwest Illinois is headquartered in Crystal Lake and serves McHenry, DeKalb, Winnebago, and Boone Counties.About the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (CFNIL)The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois has served Northern Illinois since 1953. CFNIL works to inspire endowment and promote philanthropy for the current and future needs of the people of Northern Illinois. Learn more about their work and commitment to philanthropy and effective grantmaking at https://cfnil.orgAbout Rockford BarbellRockford Barbell is an accessible option for improving the mental and physical outcomes of youth. Rockford Barbell’s Youth Programs are offered year-round to kids ages 10-18 at no cost. Find more information about Rockford Barbell’s programs at https://rockfordbarbell.comAbout Girls on the Run Northwest Illinois Girls on the Run® is designed to enhance participants' social, emotional and physical skills to successfully navigate life experiences. Our fun, interactive lessons meet the unique needs of participants of all abilities and backgrounds. Girls on the Run Northwest Illinois is a council of Girls on the Run International, proudly serving McHenry, DeKalb, Winnebago and Boone Counties. Since our council’s inception, we have unlocked the power and potential of our participants and made a lasting impact on our community through participant-led service projects. Learn more at https://gotrnwil.org/

MEDIA ADVISORYJOIN US AT 11 A.M. THURSDAY FOR “THE UNVEILINGS: A 5HORT FILM MEDIA DAY”815HORTS Film Selections to be Unveiled, Including Bing Liu’s Latest Rockford Premiere ROCKFORD, Ill., November 13, 2023 – You’re invited to “The Unveilings: A 5HORT Film Media Day” to help announce official selections for this year’s 815HORTS: A 5HORT Film Festival. Please join us! Details include: What: The Unveilings: A 5HORT Media DayWhen: 11 a.m., Thursday, November 16, 2023Where: RPL Nordlof Center, 118 North Main Street, Rockford, IL 61101Who: Scheduled speakers include: Dena Altamore, founder of SoundLight Entertainment; Don Hatton, founder of Rockford Film Office and co-founder of Dashford Media; Tom McNamara, mayor of City of Rockford; Nick Povalitis, founder of Plus Seven Company and director of 815HORTS; and Lynn Stainbrook, executive director of Rockford Public Library.Why: 815HORTS returns to RPL Nordlof Center on Sat., Dec. 2, as the region’s premier short film festival. At Thursday’s media event, we’ll unveil film selections for this year’s 815HORTS: A 5HORT Film Festival, preview the 2023 Sundance Film Festival Short Film Tour, and announce Bing Liu’s latest Rockford premiere!RSVP: Attending media are asked to RSVP by 12 p.m. noon Wednesday, November 15, to Nick Povalitis at Nick@PlusSevenCompany.com or 815.708.1644. Thank you! For more information, visit www.815HORTS.com and follow @p7company on social. About Plus Seven Company: Plus Seven Company delivers winning events and experiences with expertise in partnerships, public relations, storytelling and tourism. Visit www.PlusSevenCompany.com for more info. Contact: Nick Povalitis, founder, Plus Seven Company, Nick@PlusSevenCompany.com, 815.708.1644.

Rockford Art Museum will temporarily close on November 13th in order to undergo major renovation project Rockford Art Museum (RAM) has made the thoughtful decision to temporarily close its doors to the public. The focal point of this temporary shutdown is a much-needed HVAC renovation, a vital upgrade that will ensure the preservation of our treasured art collection. By investing in modern climate control systems, the museum is taking a significant step to protect and maintain the artworks for years to come. RAM looks forward to the grand reopening in Summer 2024, where we can enjoy the beauty of art in a rejuvenated setting. During our closure, it’s our goal to continue programming in new settings so that we’re able to stay connected with the community. For more information on the closure and our continued programs, visit our website (rockfordartmuseum.org) or social media pages (@rockfordartmuseum). It is the mission of Rockford Art Museum to foster creativity and build community through visual arts. ### FOR MORE INFORMATION: To schedule an interview with Executive Director/Chief Curator Carrie Johnson email cjohnson@rockfordartmuseum.org 

The Mill Saloon, located at 9032 N 2nd St, Machesney Park, has been open since summer and has expanded its bar and menu to give you plenty of reasons to stop in and try them out! Their mission has always been to become a neighborhood bar and grill, serving all of your favorites. We think they nailed it.We tried the Boom Boom Shrimp first. Breaded and fried popcorn shrimp served piping hot and with a generous side of boom boom sauce, and we do mean generous. This sauce has a mild kick to it, and honestly pairs great with so many things in case you opt to keep the extra on the table.  Next up was the Black and Blue Steak Wrap with blackened sirloin steak, blue cheese crumbles, cucumber, lettuce, and chipotle aioli. Blue cheese lovers, your time has come. This wrap really lets the blue cheese shine. The wrap is generously stuffed, but robust enough to stay together for your dining ease. Served with your choice of side, this is not a light meal! You'll leave satisfied after this wrap.We also tried the Reuben, and I have to say... it was delicious. The Mill Saloon is not afraid to get things saucey, and they pile on the meat for their sandwiches. This Reuben was packed with flavor. The rye bread was toasted delicately for that delightful crunch.The Mill Saloon has a large bar to serve up your favorites, and TVs on all day to keep you up to date on the scores. Give them a try for your next meal, and maybe find your new neighborhood bar. See you there, Rockford!

Rockford is such a great place to be a foodie and this week's feature, The Kitchen Tap Wall & Grill, is no exception. Located at 7003 North Alpine Road, Loves Park inside Victory Pickleball, this new addition to town is worth the stop even if you aren't a pickleball fan.First of all, let's talk about the 30 taps on the wall! You heard that right...30. Everything from a lineup of domestic and tap beers to wines, and house mixes like their margarita. This serve-yourself tap wall comes with a card that you tap prior to pouring, it keeps track of your tab and you check out at the end. Want a half glass of margarita, go for it. Like your pour straight to the rim, let 'er rip. And I highly recommend their house margarita.When it is time to order food, you can order online via a QR code on every table, or let them know you prefer a server to help you out. If you order online, all of your food is served at once so be sure to pace your order if you prefer your appetizer first. We started off with their cheese curds. You can request your choice of dipping sauce and we went with pizza sauce. These white cheddar cheese curds came out piping hot with a crispy batter shell and a melty paradise on the inside. Dusted with garlic parmesan, these are sure to please the crowd.We also tried their burger and chicken sandwiches, with a twist. The Kitchen Tap Wall & Grill offers three ways to get a sandwich: classic, baja, or buff. We sampled the baja burger: a quarter-pound burger topped with black bean hummus, guac, cotija cheese, pickled red onions, lettuce, and tomato. Choose your burger temp and enjoy this fresh flavor that has a little kick behind it. The guac is super fresh and this is a filling burger! And for as loaded as it arrives, the bun is robust enough to handle the job. Add your side of choice and enjoy!Next up was the buff chicken sandwich with, you just it, buffalo sauce! But also: blue cheese dressing, garlic aioli, lettuce, and tomato. The chicken was so tender and juicy, and cooked perfectly. The sauces brought so much flavor to this sandwich and melted together beautifully. No one flavor overwhelmed the others.  Eat your meal on the decks overlooking the courts or inside. We can't wait to go back to try the rest of the menu. See you there, Rockford!

Are you craving a big bowl of pasta and a cannoli? Us too, so we visited Salamone's in Cherry Valley for dinner.First of all, you have to sample their specialty appetizers. This group of table pleasers steps up the bar on meal starters. We tried their new Arancini: four breaded rice balls filled with bolognese sauce consisting of finely ground beef, carrots, and peas served with our homemade tomato cream sauce. The tomato cream sauce added a velvety texture to this appetizer. These were generously sized, and perfect to share with someone. The arancini were crisp on the outside and had soft rice and sauce inside. The texture was just perfect.Next up, Rina's Ravioli: this recipe comes straight from their Aunt Rina in Sicily and features portabella ravioli topped with succulent scallops and shrimp in a delicious white wine mushroom sauce. Mushroom lovers rejoice! This portabella ravioli lets the portabella truly shine. The white wine sauce is a delicate addition that brings all of this dish's flavors together. The scallops and shrimp and prepared beautifully and the texture is spot on. We also tried a classic, Chicken Parmigiana. You can't go wrong with this classic dish. Their homemade red sauce pairs perfectly with your pasta and fried chicken breast. The melted cheese on top is what every pasta lover lives for. Not sure what to order? This classic delivers.You can't leave without dessert! We ordered the mini cannolis stuffed with their homemade filling and chocolate chips. This decadent dessert is the perfect size to finish off a hearty dinner with a sweet ending. The pastry had the perfect crisp with the chilled cream. Covered in powdered sugar, this finger food is a fun and delicious way to end your meal.Skip cooking tonight and take your friends or family to dinner at Salamone's. Their fall drink menu is out, and it's scary good. See you there, Rockford!

Rockford River District and Rockford Art Deli to Host Spook the Blocks, Saturday October 28Trick-or-Treat in Downtown Rockford as Stores & Restaurants Open Their Doors to Local FamiliesROCKFORD, IL – The Rockford River District Association is thrilled to announce it is partnering with Rockford Art Deli to host Spook the Blocks, a family-friendly trick-or-treat event, in downtown Rockford. The event will take place on Saturday, October 28 from 12 – 4 PM. Families are invited to the River District to trick-or-treat and visit downtown businesses. There will be tantalizing seasonal specials and promotions and ghoulish goods from restaurants.WHERE: All throughout downtown Rockford. From Jefferson Street to Cedar/Walnut Streets and Kilburn Avenue to Third Street and beyond.PARTICIPATING BUSINESSES:· 317 Art Collaborative· BMO Center· Carlyle Brewing Co.· Cheezy’s Grilled Cheeses· CJ’s Public House· District Bar & Grill· EARTH Zero Waste· Elora Home Interiors· Ernie’s Midtown Pub· Exquisite Cuts & Shaves· Galaxy Hair Studio· Inzombia Coffee· J.R. Kortman Center· Juju Rey’s Art Clubhouse· LimaMar Restaurant· Lucette Holistic Salon· Magpie· Maze Books· Prairie Street Brewing Co.· Quixotic Bakery· Real Beautiful You· Rockford Art Deli· Rockford City Market· Rockford Ice Hogs and Fire Department Coffee· Rockford Roasting Company· Rocktown Adventures· Runner’s Image· Salvaged by Sonya· Smiley’s Vintage Supply· S’mores Collectibles & Vintage· SRM Prints Studio + Gift Shop· Subversive Cycling Company· TNT Funnel Cakes· Willow Beauty· Wood and Brick Tavern· Woodfire Brick Oven Pizza· And more to come!GIVEAWAY: Stop into Rockford Art Deli during Spook the Blocks to enter to win a treat bucket from the Rockford Chamber of Commerce and a tote from Rockford Art Deli.“Whenever we can throw a party and invite our community to downtown Rockford to have fun while supporting local businesses, we’re all in,” said River District Board President John Groh. “Spook the Blocks is a family-friendly event where kids (and adults) can dress up, trick or treat at locally owned businesses and maybe stop into a restaurant to enjoy a good meal or hot beverage or take advantage of a great deal or special at a new store. It’s a fun event that attracts families to the River District. We look forward to seeing the community dress up and have fun in downtown.”To learn more about Spook the Blocks visit www.riverdistrict.com. To learn more about up-to-date Spook the Block specials and activities, follow Rockford Art Deli on Facebook or Instagram.

ROCKFORD, IL - Northwest Community Center (NWCC) has turned 75! Northwest has proudly served the residents of Rockford for 75 years and is celebrating its diamond anniversary. “Many lives have been positively impacted by our staff, volunteers, and services offered over the years at Northwest. We are thrilled to be celebrating this milestone and we are excited to explore new partnerships and opportunities to grow our community outreach” said Nichol Fricks, Executive Director. Fricks, a 14 year NWCC veteran became the organization’s leader in July 2023. Because of the Center’s physical location, nestled on a wooded side-street in Northwest Rockford, it is often referred to as a “hidden gem.” But Northwest’s impact is certainly not hidden and they are reigniting their presence in the city of Rockford. While needs increase in the community, so does the need for quality programming that can meet the demands of their neighbors. While Northwest has many well-functioning programs, there is much opportunity for program expansion. That’s where partnering directly with the community to identify needs is integral to the future of the organization. In the coming months Northwest will be hosting stakeholder open houses to bring additional awareness to the Center. For more information about Northwest Community Center, visit www.northwestrockford.org.

The Top Rooftop Bar & Lounge at 416 S Main Street, 12th Floor, Rockford, IL 61101 just unveiled their new brunch menu, and let us tell you... it's hitting all those charcuterie vibes. We had to dive into a few boards ourselves!Grab your friends for this shareable brunch experience at The Top! They have several boards to pick and choose your brunch favorites. If you don't like to share, no worries... they have individual brunch items as well. And make sure to check out the cocktail menu! You can't go wrong, from classic mimosas to crafted flavors like blueberry pancake and cinnamon roll.We started with the Sweet Board: muffins, danish, crème brûlée waffle, scones, syrup, honey butter, regular butter, and assorted berries. This tray has morning smiles written all over it. The crème brûlée waffles were so delicious that we actually ordered an extra plate for the table. Belgian waffle is the base, and it's topped with a generous dollop of vanilla crème brûlée and berries. Served with syrup, this was a crowd favorite. The scones and other sweets were all so fresh and delicious. The honey butter was a delightful addition to this beautiful spread.We also tried the Traditional Breakfast Board: cheesy scrambled eggs, herb roasted potatoes, ham, jalapeño bacon, cracked pepper bacon, breakfast sausage, tri-colored tomatoes, English muffins, honey butter, strawberry jam, and habanero bacon jam. Jalapeno bacon was a first for me, and I loved the spicy kick that accompanied nature's meat candy. If spicy isn't your jam, the cracked pepper bacon is a classic favorite. Normally ham is the leftover meat on a tray such as this... but don't rule out this ham! It packed an awesome flavor punch and stood alone as its own star on this board. The breakfast sausage is a chorizo sausage, but not greasy at all. The flavor was on point and not too spicy. Definitely give the bacon jam a try on the biscuit or english muffin, but the housemade strawberry jam is amazing as well! Loaded with eggs and roasted potatoes, this board is the full breakfast experience.Two boards fed our table of 4 perfectly, with some bonus leftovers. Enjoy an amazing brunch with stunning views of downtown from The Top! See you there, Rockford.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 14th, 2023, as we are excited to announce the 12th Annual Nik’s Home Run event at Rockford Rivets Stadium (4503 Interstate Blvd., Loves Park, IL). This event features a 7K Run, a 1.5 Mile Fun Walk, a Virtual 5K, and a display of Grammy’s Auction items available for online bids. The Stadium opens at 8:00 AM and admission will be free. The 7K Run and Fun Walk will start at 9:00 AM.Families are welcome to attend and meet some of the young adult cancer warriors (Wishers) and their families. The event will be held in a family-friendly environment with kid-friendly facilities and services, including public restrooms, a terrific food stand, and music for entertainment. You can even shop at the Team Store. The deeply moving closing ceremony will honor both the outstanding runners and courageous young adults that Nik’s Wish serves.This year marks the 7th year of Nik’s Home Run on the Rockford Road Runners Circuit as a Certified USATF Race with chip-to-chip timing. Splits will be announced at each mile marker. Water and first aid stations will be available. The overall male and female winners will receive $100, and age group, team, and para-athlete winners will also be recognized. If you dedicate your race to someone, bring a copy of their picture for our Dreaming Tree.The registration fees for the 7K Run and Fun Walk are $45 and $35, respectively. However, prices will increase after October 13th. All registrants will receive an awesome Goodie SWAG Bag and a chance to win 2 Bears tickets. The first 200 registrants will also receive a COOL event T-shirt. If you cannot attend, you can still participate in the Virtual 5K for $35 (which includes shipping), and you will receive all the SWAG plus a Finisher’s Pin. All proceeds will benefit Nik’s Wish, a Rockford-based, all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to BRING HOPE & JOY to young adults (18-24), and their loved ones, fighting cancer. Since its founding in 2012, Nik’s Wish has granted over 315 wishes in 40 states. If you wish to learn more, please visit www.NiksWish.org; https://www.facebook.com/NikolasRitschelFoundation/; or https://twitter.com/Take1STEPwNIK.If you are interested in bidding for Grammy’s Auction items, online bidding is now open. Please visit https://bringjoy.cbo.io to register for the Auction and take a sneak peek at the items. On Race Day at Rivets Stadium, the auction items will be displayed and ready for pickup after the online bidding closes at 11:00 AM. Nik’s Grammy, Judi Boehle, has over 300 items from entertainment, dining, sports memorabilia, and many more categories. If you need help placing an online bid, assistance will be available at the Stadium.Join us at Nik’s Home Run to CELEBRATE LOVE beating cancer every time!