Positive News, Stories, & Rockford Buzz Polls

If you weren’t at the game or following the score, I’m going to play a bit of a spoiler role and tell you right now that the IceHogs won this game. . . somehow. I’m telling you this now, because what I’m about to write will not lead you to believe the outcome, and I don’t want you to be stressed out like I was.When the puck dropped on this Saturday night duel between Central Division foes, neither team looked particularly interested in taking the lead. It was a lot of back and forth hockey with one-and-done chances, which is fine. It was a feeling out period for sure. It doesn’t make for the most exciting hockey, but it’s better than bad hockey.As the first period went on, the Iowa Wild had some grade A scoring chances in front of Kevin Lankinen, but the fierce Fin was turning them aside. Then the Penalty Kill Woes made themselves known. The Wild had a late power play and the IceHogs were not at all ready for the kill. They couldn’t clear the puck, and it wasn’t a matter of IF but WHEN the puck was going to find it’s way past Lankinen. It did. That’s fine. A 1-0 game. Hockey is a game of inches; you’re going to be down by one goal many times throughout the season.Shots were 18-8 Wild at the end of the first period.Well, on this Saturday night, the floodgates opened wide up after goal #1 for Iowa. They went on to score 3 more unanswered goal and the Hogs found themselves in a 4-0 hole. Then, something miraculous happened. Jordan Schroeder took a *SHOT (we’ll get to this) on the power play and the IceHogs injected an ounce of life back into their veins.The game was 4-1 at the end of the second period. Shots were 28-17 Iowa.The third period arrived. Shockingly, not many people had left yet. You never know in sports. When the game is going poorly for the home team, sometimes people like to leave early for whatever reason. I’ve never done it, but to each their own.From the beginning of the third period and on, the game played out somewhat like a movie. Henri Jokiharju blasted a puck from the point, it hit Luke Johnson, and it found it’s way into the back of the net. Jordan Schroeder netted goal #2 of the night for himself. With the clock ever present in the mind of fans and players alike, Joni Tuulola ripped an absolute laser top shelf to tie the game. This game-tying goal came off of the most precise cross-ice pass you can have from Andreas Martinsen and the finish was a thing of beauty.I think I could watch that goal on repeat forever and never get tired of it. Just a gorgeous, gorgeous goal - one that the Wild goalie surely wants to have back, not because it was weak, but because it changed everything. The IceHogs believed. The fan believed. The BMO was hopping.Unfortunately, after all of that excitement, there were still a few minutes to play in regulation time. These are the longest minutes ever. Are they going to win in regulation? Are they going to lose in regulation? If they’re going to lose, please just get to overtime to get a point. Oh, god, what if they give up a goal with under a minute and have no time to try to get it back.Friends, it’s stressful.I think my heart was doing a weird mixture of beating too fast and just completely stopping. Being a hockey fan isn’t healthy, but it sure is fun.Most of the time.At the end of regulation, with the game tied 4-4, the shots were 36-33 Wild.Now, take a look at the shot totals after the first two periods. They are terribly skewed in favor of Iowa. The IceHogs came out with fire in the third period and they weren’t to be denied. They played a near perfect period, and all numbers on the scoreboard showed this. I don’t know where this team was for the first 40 minutes, but I’m glad they showed up.Off to overtime we went. Going into overtime is either great or awful. It’s never just an experience that you’re indifferent about.In this case, it was great. I don’t think anyone thought the Hogs would be in this position after going down 4-0. But, in overtime, the next goal wins. There was some great action. I’m a big fan of 3-on-3 overtime, even though the coaches have now had a few seasons to take some of the frantic excitement out of it. The Hogs had a few awesome chances and Lankinen came up with some great saves. But, neither team popped that shifty piece of rubber into the back of the net.The stress continued and intensified as the game went to a shootout. I often joke that being a hockey fan is taking years off of my life. But, it might not actually be a joke. This kind of stuff is not for a weak person!Jokiharju – stopped.Anas – stopped by Lankinen.Schroeder – stopped.Sokolov – stopped by Lankinen.Edjsell – SCORES!!!!!!Mahew – STOPPED BY LANKINEN!!!!!!ICEHOGS WIN! ICEHOGS WIN! ICEHOGS WIN!Can we just take a moment to appreciate the greatness of Kevin Lankinen. After giving up 4 goals, it would be easy to get lost in your head and completely lose control of the game. But, after his team got one back, he locked it in and kept them in the game and did not let anything else by him. That, my friends, is mental toughness. And, yes, I love goaltenders. So, you’ll be hearing about them a lot.The IceHogs somehow dug deep a pulled out a win on this crazy stressful Saturday night. I don’t know how they did it, but I sure am glad they did.*Now we are back to this point about the power play. I don’t know what is going on, but it’s as if the team refuses to take a shot. Maybe it’s a confidence thing. Maybe it’s a coaching thing. I don’t think it’s a personnel thing, as that hasn’t really changed. All I know is that is way too frustrating to watch 2 minutes of possession pass by on the power play with either zero or one shot on net. It’s amazing what can happen when you actually shoot the puck.This afternoon, the IceHogs take on the San Antonio Rampage. The puck drops at 4 pm. Tickets are available at the BMO Harris Bank Center Box Office!

Friday, February 15, 2019Sam Adams Lobster Boil @ The Olympic Tavern - view event11:00 amHappy Valentines Day Wine Tasting @ Tinder Box - view event5:00 pm - 9:00 pmThe Vince Chiarelli Band @ Cucina di Rosa - view event6:00 pm - 9:00 pmNate Fry @ The Hope & Anchor - view event6:00 pmKane Brown: Live Forever Tour @ BMO Harris Bank Center - view event7:00 pmWhite Shape and Vanishing Kids @ Mary's Place - view event9:30 pm - 1:30 amSaturday, February 16, 2019Rockford Quad Con @ Riverfront Museum Park - view event10:00 am - 4:00 pmWrappin' with the Meyer's @ Meyer's Tails Up Farm - view event11:30 am - 12:30 pmBlack History Month Program @ Veterans Memorial Hall - view event1:00 pm - 5:00 pmTrinadora's US Roots @ Stockholm Inn - view event5:00 pm - 7:30 pmRockford IceHogs vs Iowa Wild @BMO Harris Bank Center - view event6:00 pm - 9:00 pmSunday, February 17, 2019Avalon String Quartet @ Mendelssohn PAC - view event3:00 pm - 6:00 pmRockford IceHogs vs San Antonio Rampage @ BMO Harris Bank Center - view event4:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Area high school students can apply now for the Summer Science Internship Program focusing on biomedical sciences at the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford, 1601 Parkview Ave.The two-month paid internship program is open to students who are at least age 16 by June 1, 2019. It will be held Monday, June 10, through Friday, August 2, 2019. Students will work on the UIC Health Sciences Campus-Rockford with scientists conducting cutting-edge research to find a cure for cancer, develop vaccines, and design and develop new drugs and will receive various career-building and mentoring skills. The Summer Science Internship Program offered through the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford is a long-standing collaborative undertaking between Thermo Fisher Scientific Pierce Protein Biology of Rockford and the College of Medicine Rockford to serve the students in the Rockford School District and nearby communities. The program has been going on for over 32 years and aims at imparting new laboratory skills to the selected students. Each year the program accepts five interns who will gain valuable hands-on laboratory skills using a variety of scientific techniques.The application deadline is March 15, 2019. For more information and an application, visit go.uic.edu/HIGHSCHOOLPROGRAMS or e-mail jlss@uic.edu.

The Rockford Area Arts Council, Mayor Thomas McNamara and Winnebago County Chairman Frank Haney will present the 2019 Rockford Area Arts Awards on Thursday, February 21, 2019 from 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. at the Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main Street, Rockford, IL. Join Miles Nielsen and Kelly Steward as they host an evening of visual arts, performances and music, and honor those who inspire, enrich, and uplift our community through their work. This evening will also celebrate the retirement of Sharon Nesbit-Davis as Executive Director and the official beginning of RAAC’s new director, Caitlyn Baylor. Award Categories are: The Community Impact Award, honoring a business or individual who recognizes the importance of the arts through financial or in-kind support, use of the arts in the workplace and/or volunteerism for the arts. The Creative Arts and Cultural Event Award recognizes an exhibit, performance, festival, series or special event during the 2018 year (in Winnebago or Boone County) which brought heightened visibility to the arts. The Young Artist Award will honor a young artist (ages 16-20) who has positively impacted the community through his or her art. Individual Artist Award honors an artist whose artistic achievements and commitment to the arts have generated a significant and positive impact on the community over a period of time. New this year is The Lifetime Achievement Award, which will be awarded posthumously to Dorothy Bock. 2019 Nominees include: Community Impact Award: AgeQuake Theatre, Gallery 2213: Balta Ramirez and Ricardo Hernandez, Lauren Hart, Minglewood, The Rockford Art Guild, and Rockford Public Schools/Rockford Symphony Orchestra “Band Grandpa Program”. The Creative Arts and Cultural Event Award: “Buddha Barrios and the Dia de los Muertos,” “Mosaic World Film Festival,” Rockford Art Museum “MISFITS Exhibition,” “The Rockford Battle,” and Womanspace “Fairy Festival.” Young Artist Award: Visual Artist Libbie Frost, Violinist Gabriel Roethle, and Dance Artist/Choreographer Jayqwon Tobias. Individual Artist: Saxophonist Amanee Avery, Cellist Michael Beert, Actor Erin Brady, Artist Jesus Correa, Artist Torrey Franklin, Performance Artist/Painter Roni Golan, Custom Toy Creator/Maker Peter Goral (Killer Bootlegs), Painter/Sculptor Brian Harker, Renaissance Man Ron Holm, Visual Artist Evangelina Jimenez, Musician/Filmmaker/Wrestler Matt Jones, Watercolor Artist/Muralist/Illustrator Jenny Mathews, Block Print Artist Sarah McNamara, Visual Artist Steve Nofsinger, Visual Artist/Arts Educator Pam Peterson, Playwright/Performer/Visual Artist Margaret Raether, Visual Artist Brock Pieper, Photographer Jeremy Schultz, Visual Artist Brandy Smith, and Photographer Tyler Yomantas. Please reserve your tickets by Wednesday, February 13, 2019 at 815-963-6765 or on-line: www.artsforeveryone.com The Rockford Area Arts Council supports, promotes, and develops the arts for everyone in our Northern Illinois region. The Arts Council is guided by the vision of a community in which everyone enjoys and participates in the arts - and a community in which successful artist and arts organizations contribute to the vitality of the economy and quality of life. www.artsforeveryone.com If you go...What: Rockford Area Arts Awards When: Thursday, February 21, 2019 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Where: Rockford Art Museum 711 N. Main Street Rockford, IL Cost: $30 Members $35 Non-Members For more information or reservations, please contact the Rockford Area Arts Council at 815-963-6765 or visit www.artsforeveryone.com

Have a family night out to remember! Bring your family to the Coronado Performing Arts Center to see the breathtaking performance by MAYUMANA! What would you get if youcould mix the electrifying energyand percussion of “Stomp...” with the dazzling stagecraftand playfulnessof Blue Man Group...And the pure athleticismof Pilobolus dancers? This is the only way to describe the mesmerizing and immersive universe that percussion dance troupe Mayumana creates on stage.PROCEEDS from this performance will benefit Friends of the Coronado Foundation Student Outreach Initiatives.Save money on fees by purchasing tickets at the Coronado or BMO Harris Box Offices.Discounted Student Ticketsare available forages 22 and youngerstarting at $13.

Discovery Center Museum is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $37,544 grant by the Barber-Colman Management Fund of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois’ Community Grants Program. The funding will help support a comprehensive STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) program for RPS#205 students in nine schools through the RPS After School Achievement Program (ASAP).The grant will fund a three-part program:1. Discovery Center staff will offer STEM related hands-on activities for students in the ASAPs. Staff will visit each school twice a month and engage students (approximately 100 per school) in small group activities that build STEM skills.2. Discovery Center will conduct family nights at each of the schools. Students and their families will participate in hands-on activities that reinforce the STEM concepts they are learning in the after school programs. Hosting a family night will encourage parents to attend and participate. Parent, family, and community involvement in education correlates with higher academic performance and school improvement. Students tend to earn higher grades, attend school more regularly, stay in school longer and enroll in higher-level programs.3. Discovery Center will provide free field trips to students participating in the after school programs at the designated schools. Approximately 90% of the families involved in the ASAP programs live at or below poverty level, so visiting a museum is generally not affordable. Following the field trip, students will be given a take-home activity and coupon to return for a free museum visit with his/her family.Students in the following seven elementary schools and three junior high schools will benefit from this grant: Beyer, Ellis, Hillman, Kishwaukee, Lewis Lemon, McIntosh, Whitehead and Kennedy, Lincoln and RESA.“Discovery Center is committed to advocating the importance of STEM education,” explains Discovery Center Executive Director Sarah Wolf. “We want students to understand and embrace the technology that impacts their lives every day. Our goal is to plant the “seed of interest” that can grow into an exciting and rewarding STEM career.”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 2018, 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: $8 adults, $8 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, phone (815) 963-6769 or log onto our website at www.discoverycentermuseum.org.About the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois:The Community Foundation of Northern Illinois has been a regional leader in philanthropy since 1953. CFNIL serves as a catalyst for giving in order to attract, grow, and preserve an endowment for the needs of Northern Illinois.

When Oscar Olson died in December of 1910, many Swedish friends and family mourned the young man. Oscar was well known and liked by the Rockford’s close knit Swedish Community. He was a carpenter by trade and from all accounts quite a good one. Oscar went to Minnesota in the fall of 1910 to visit an uncle. He stayed six weeks or so before traveling to the Northern woods of Wisconsin. It was just before Christmas when the news reached Rockford that young Oscar had been struck and killed by a train in Minneapolis.Though, as one can imagine, identification was made nearly impossible by the nature of the accident, someone identified Oscar and he was buried there in the local cemetery. The news of Oscar’s accident was reported in the paper and also wrote up in the Tribunen, a weekly Swedish paper. Many of the Swedes in Rockford had subscriptions to the Tribunen so the news made its way from Minneapolis quite quickly. The articles were quite lengthy about the accident so no one had any reason to doubt the stories.So when rumors started to swirl that Oscar was seen walking around in Rockford, it made the good folks of Rockford very confused. Some even reported that the young man had returned from the grave. Though some of the most respectable Swedes would not listen to these stories they soon spread throughout the city. By April 21, 1911 the truth was finally revealed. Oscar though reported dead and buried in the little cemetery outside of Minneapolis was alive and well. It seemed that it was a simple case of mistaken identity. Oscar Olson’s relatives knew that he was in Wisconsin but couldn’t verify that fact immediately. Eventually Oscar was shown copies of the newspapers reporting his demise. It seemed that Oscar possessed a great sense of humor about the whole thing. He decided to return to Rockford and clear up the misunderstanding in person. He got quite a laugh about people’s reactions when he showed up on their doorstep!Oscar later expressed surprise that some people took so much convincing before they would believe that he was really alive. It was much easier for his neighbors to believe that his ghost was wandering the streets of Rockford!For more stories and information on upcoming events, visit www.hauntedrockford.com. There are 2 events this month: The Dead Guy Festival on Saturday, February 23 from 12:00-5:00 and a Paranoormal Evening at the Graham Ginestra House also February 23 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. Get more information about these events on the website.

Computer science engineers are working on robots so tiny they might eventually fit INSIDE the human body. They are also developing cutting-edge music software. Hard to believe? Not if you’re an engineer. Biomedical engineers develop artificial lenses that restore sight to the blind; environmental engineers find ways to clean up our oceans and rivers; agricultural and biomedical engineers design methods of keeping harmful microorganisms out of our food supply. Cars are safer, medical tests are more accurate, and computers and cell phones are a lot more fun, all thanks to engineers. Local engineering feats will be showcased at Discovery Center Museum on Saturday, February 23 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to celebrate National Engineers' Week - February 17-23, 2019. This is one of the highest attended annual events Discovery Center presents each year. Discover Engineering features engineers from local companies, along with members of the local professional engineering societies and high school robotics teams, providing demonstrations, hands-on activities and general information. The event is offers elementary and middle school-age children the opportunity to take part in numerous experiments and hands-on activities such as designing and testing catapults and bridges, experimenting with circuits, experiencing an augmented reality sandbox, watching liquid nitrogen demonstrations and much more! So set your brain on “try-it mode” and prepare for some fun challenges!A variety of companies and groups will be represented, including (to date) Woodward, Collins Aerospace, Nicor Gas, Ingenium Technologies, Underwriter’s Laboratory, Aqua-Aerobic Systems, TAC Rockford, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Bioblaze Community Bio Lab, Ingenium Technologies, Bergstrom, Ingersoll Machine Tools, National Technical Systems, Rockford Makers, National Society of Black Engineers – NIU chapter, along with several engineering societies and high school robotics teams.Discover Engineering is sponsored by TAC Rockford, Thermo Fisher Scientific, the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers – Rockford Chapter, Nicor Gas, Rockford Bank & Trust, and the Illinois Space Grant Consortium. Cost for visitors is included with admission to the Museum - $8 adults; $8 children ages 2-17; and free to Museum members and children age 1 and younger.

Gigi’s Playhouse Rockford is a Down Syndrome Achievement Center that works to inspire and empower individuals with Down syndrome to succeed in life. Offering free lifetime educational, therapeutic-based, and career development programs for individuals and their families, the Playhouse is striving to change the way our community, and the world, perceives Down syndrome. During a presentation about recycling made by Beverly Broyles of Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful, she emphasized the importance of focusing on the three R’s, “Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.” Mentioning that plastic bottle caps are not recyclable, she said that they can be “reused” and made into benches. She shared the Green Tree Plastics “ABC” program that could recycle plastic caps and lids into a “Buddy Bench.” The Green Tree Plastics Company’s ABC PROGRAM is a cap and lid program specifically designed by group participants for group participants. It is to be a tool in the hands of teachers to teach participants about caring for the earth and green living. It must be put through participant’s hands and someone must be responsible to see that it is a learning experience for them. Furthermore, the bench needs to belong to the participants; it is to be placed where they want it to be placed so they can show others and be proud of what they have accomplished.Wanting to do something positive for their community and the Playhouse, the “Marvelous Mondays” group and their leaders asked to be part of the program. Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful provided Gigi’s Playhouse with the contact information for Green Tree Plastics and they were off and running. Collecting, cleaning, sorting, and weighing the caps was all done by the “Marvelous Mondays” group! The group decided to order two four foot benches and ordered one blue bench and one purple bench. They raised the necessary money required to manufacture the bench by collecting, crushing and selling aluminum cans (also protecting the environment) and by the sale of handmade articles at a holiday fair.Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful’s volunteer and recycle center supervisor Michael Simmons and his wife Lora offered to take the 400 pounds of bottle caps and lids to Green Tree Plastics in Evansville, Indiana and to bring back the completed benches on January 21, 2019. The benches were presented to the “Marvelous Mondays” group at Gigi’s Playhouse on Monday, February 11, 2019.

College students can apply now for the Summer Medical Research Training (SMaRT) Program focusing on biomedical sciences at the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford, 1601 Parkview Ave.The eight-week paid internship program is open to undergraduate students at any U.S. college. Acceptance is based on academic merit and interest in pursuing a career in medical science or a related field. Approximately three students will be selected for the program that will be held Monday, June 10, through Friday, August 2, 2019. Interns will receive a stipend at the end of program.Interns will work on the UIC Health Sciences Campus-Rockford with scientists conducting cutting-edge research to find a cure for cancer, develop vaccines, and design and develop new drugs. During this training, the students gain significant hands-on experience in planning and successfully executing a medical research project. At the conclusion of the program, students present their scientific data as a poster and an oral presentation at the college’s SMaRT Scientific Forum. The application deadline is March 15, 2019. For more information and an application, visit https://rockford.medicine.uic.edu/education/programs-high-school-college-students/ or e-mail jlss@uic.edu.

SATURDAY, JUNE 1, 2019 AT 7:30PM CORONADO PERFORMING ARTS CENTER TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15 AT 10:00AM!WHAT: Tom Petty has inspired generations of American rock fans and now his music has been transformed into a unique symphonic experience. Southern Accents, the ultimate Tom Petty Tribute band, joins forces with Grammy Award nominated Composer/Conductor Dr. Rob Tomaro and the Beloit Janesville Symphony Orchestra to create an unforgettable synthesis of orchestral texture and rock band power that celebrates Tom Petty’s life and legacy.The evening’s concert will be the world premiere of these orchestrated Tom Petty songs, which include Free Fallin’, Runnin’ Down a Dream, Learning to Fly, American Girl, and Refugee, among many others.WHERE & WHEN: The Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, IL. Saturday, June 1, 2019 at 7:30pm.TICKETS: All tickets are available through Ticketmaster, prices ranging from $25 - $75. The VIP Tickets for $75 include a Meet & Greet before the concert with the band, the Symphony Conductor and musicians, a personally autographed poster, and light refreshments.Call 815-968-5222; click on www.Ticketmaster.com; or visit the Coronado PAC or BMO Harris Bank Center box office. All seats are reserved.ABOUT BJSO: The Beloit Janesville Symphony Orchestra, now in its sixty-sixth year, is the professional symphony orchestra of Rock County. In addition to its series of classical and pops concerts, each year it performs Independence Day concerts in Janesville and Beloit, which are offered free to our audience. Beginning as a volunteer community orchestra in 1953 at Beloit College, it has grown into a respected regional orchestra in Wisconsin and Northern Illinois.The mission of the BJSO is to serve as a major cultural and educational resource to Southern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois by providing a rich variety of symphonic music and related cultural activities to the citizens, schools and other institutions in the area.Music Director Dr. Rob Tomaro is also active in our school systems, bringing his original educational program “Conducting Kids” to area middle schools.Founded by Lewis Dalvit in 1953, the BJSO baton was passed on to Dr. Crawford Gates in 1963 and, in 1999, to Dr. Robert Tomaro.ABOUT SOUTHERN ACCENTS (from an Edsel West Entertainment press release):Southern Accents formed in early 2016 when Bob Ocker was approached about getting together with a "Tom Petty doppelgänger" who had been trying to find his "Mike Campbell" to form a Tribute band. Being one of the biggest Tom Petty/Mike Campbell fans, Ocker had to check it out. After hearing Ronnie Gregg sing the first song, he was sold. They quickly recruited the rest of the band members and haven't looked back!Southern Accents’ show can be described in one word: Authentic. Gregg isn't trying to be Petty. For better or for worse, his likeness bears an uncanny resemblance to him. From his stringy hair to his facial structure, stature and especially his vocals; on stage, he embodies Petty beautifully.The band, made up of experienced, professional Nashville musicians, recreate the sound of The Heartbreakers with precision, skill and reverence. This isn't just another singer in a blonde wig and top hat crooning to some backing- tracks, this is precise, authentic and spiritual. Throughout the show, Gregg pays homage to Petty with great respect - gracious to his audience for their support and grateful for their mutual love of Petty's music.Rounding out the band are; Bob Ocker (lead guitar), Tony Mac (drums), Paul Jones (bass), Jeff Hollandsworth (keys, mandolin) and Jace Aaron (guitar, percussion). Each member - true to his craft - has studied the sound and technique of the Heartbreaker they're emulating and they put on one heck of a show.Southern Accents has been booking across the U.S. and continues to gain popularity. They have been praised by Keith Eveland, president of Tom Petty Nation, as “some of Nashville’s best musicians...who full on ROCK!”In addition to their standard show, they recently branched out to include symphony shows. Twelve symphony scores were conceived and written by Grammy-nominated Dr. Rob Tomaro, an accomplished songwriter, jazz guitarist, composer and Maestro of the Beloit Janesville Symphony Orchestra. Tomaro will conduct the premiere collaboration on June 1 at the Coronado Performing Arts Center in Rockford, IL. This is going to be a rock-the- symphony kind of show; do not miss it!About SMG: Founded in 1977, SMG provides management services to 243 public assembly facilities including convention and exhibition centers, arenas, stadiums, theaters, performing arts centers, equestrian facilities, science centers and a variety of other venues. With facilities across the globe, SMG manages more than 19 million square feet of exhibition space and more than 1.5 million sports and entertainment seats. As the recognized global industry leader, SMG provides venue management, sales, marketing, event booking and programming, construction and design consulting, and pre-opening services for such landmark facilities as McCormick Place & Soldier Field in Chicago, Moscone Convention Center in San Francisco, Houston’s NRG Park and the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans. SMG also offers food and beverage operations through its concessions and catering companies, currently serving more than 140 accounts worldwide. For more information visit www.smgworld.com

Earlier today, Gwen & Kent Meyer won Best in Breed for Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers with their fierce competitor, Crawford!Tonight, you can tune is as Crawford takes on the TERRIER GROUP COMPETITION. It'll be broadcast live on Fox Sports 1 at 7:30 pm. If Crawford is victorious again, they will move on to Best in Show. I don't know about you, but spending an evening watching dogs on TV sounds glorious. Especially when a great local dog has the opportunity to sweep a competition. Grab some snacks, a cold (or warm!) drink, and tune in to watch this competition while cheering on our local "Good Boy". GOOD LUCK, CRAWFORD, GWEN, & KENT! 

It’s the most wonderful time of the year - NATIONAL PIZZA DAY! I have listed some of the restaurants that have stolen a pizza my heart below. If I could tell you about every pizza that I have loved, you wouldn’t have time to go celebrate so I only shared a few!Greenfire Restaurant Bar & Bakery - 6795 E Riverside Blvd, Rockford, IL 61114Margherita - red sauce, parmesan, fresh mozzarella and fresh basilProsciutto Goat Cheese - red sauce, Prosciutto di Parma, spinach, goat cheese, gruyere, mozzarella, parmesan and fresh basil*Every time I see this picture I drool a little bitWoodfire Brick Oven Pizza - 408 E State St, Rockford, IL 61104Sausage & Bell Pepper - Fresh mozzarella, sauce, fennel sausage, bell peppers and HOT giardiniera (spicy hot peppers)*You don’t have to wait for the City Market to enjoy their pizzas! Lino’s - 5611 E State St, Rockford, IL 61108Build Your Own - All pepperoni and half onions & bell peppers*Don’t forget to order the Special Salad as well, folksPig Minds Brewing Co. - 4080 Steele Dr., Machesney Park, IL 61115Margherita Flatbread - Marinara sauce, roma tomatoes, fresh basil, drizzled with a cheezyvegan mozzarella sauce and almond parmesan*I’m not even vegan and I loved this flatbread! Also, their beer is fantastic

Hello there. I bring you the unfortunate news that it's supposed to be cold again this weekend. Not to worry, there are a bunch of indoor events for you to attend. Just, make sure you remember to bundle up!Friday, February 8, 2019Not Without a Fight: Free Public Opening @ Rockford Art Museum - view event5:00 pm - 8:30 pm"Love Bugs," watercolor by Jenny Mathews @ J.R. Kortman Center For Design - view event5:30 pm - 9:00 pmRockford IceHogs vs Tuscon Roadrunners @ BMO Harris Bank Center - view event7:00 pmThat Gurl @ The Hope & Anchor - view event7:00 pm - 10:00 pmThe Vagina Monologues @ The Nordlof Center - view event7:00 pm - 9:00 pmTrinadora Rocks @ Belvidere Moose Lodge - view event7:00 pm - 10:00 pmPurple Hell with Speaker Speaker @ Mary's Place - view event9:30 pm - 1:30 amSaturday, February 9, 2019Conservation Crew Restoration Day @ Severson Dells - view event9:00 am - 12:00 pmCreate Your Own Jizo Doll @ Rockford Arm Museum - view event9:00 am - 12:00 pmSnarky Cross Stitch Club @ RPL: Hart Interim Branch - view event10:00 am - 12:00 pmRockford Boat, Vacation, and Fishing Show @ Indoor Sports Center - view event10:00 am - 6:00 pmRockford IceHogs vs. Tuscon Roadrunners @ BMO Harris Bank Center - view event6:00 pmBlues Night: Mike Wheeler Band @ The Hope & Anchor - view event8:00 pmToo Deep @ Mary's Place - view event9:30 pm - 12:30 amSunday, February 10, 2019Rockford Boat, Vacation, and Fishing Show @ Indoor Sports center - view event10:00 am - 4:00 pmStayin' Alive with American Pie: Music From the 1970's @ Midway Village Museum - view event2:00 pm - 3:00 pmBlack History Month Movie: Through a Lens Darkly @ The Nordlof Center - view event2:00 pm - 3:30 pmChocolate Sundae Sunday @ Discovery Center Museum - view event2:00 pm - 4:00 pmBlack History Month Movie: Blindspotting @ The Nordlof Center - view event4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Who: Veterans Memorial Hall and Museum, Harlem Veteran ProjectWhere: 211 N. Main St. Rockford IllinoisWhen: Saturday February 16, 2019-1 to 5 PMWhat: Capturing American History-The unique perspective of the African-American Service MemberVeterans Memorial Hall and Museum, and the Black History Month Committee presents:“Capturing American History; The Unique Perspective of the African-American Service Member”. After ten years of bringing historic World War II African American Veterans to the Rockford area, we are reinventing our program to present the unique experience that African Americans had while serving in the United States Military. We have partnered with the Harlem High School Veteran Project to showcase local African- American Veterans that have been interviewed for the project. Both Veteran and student will discuss clips of the Veteran’s interview and the impact those topics had on each of them. These video interviews will be presented to the Library of Congress for historical and educational purposes. The program will also include special presentations honoring The Jefferson-Horton American Legion Post 340 and The Booker Washington Center.A live video interview session will also be conducted.Why: In spite of adversity and limited opportunities, African Americans have played a significant role in U.S. military history over the past 300 years. They were denied military leadership roles and skilled training because many believed they lacked qualifications for combat duty. On June 25th 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued Executive Order No. 8802 establishing the fair employment practice that began to erase discrimination in the Armed Forces. This executive order gave African Americans an opportunity to serve their county as equals. Veterans Memorial Hall and Museum is honored to present these patriotic Veterans to Rockford community in celebration of Black History Month.Doors open at 12:30 PM with the opening ceremony scheduled for 1:00 PM. The event will conclude at 4PM with an autograph session in our library. A donation of $3.00 is requested, students and seniors are free.

Local business owners will be competing in the 143nd Annual Westminster Kennel Club All Breed Dog Show in New York City on Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 11-12, 2019.Kent and Gwen Meyer, who own Meyer’s Tails Up Farm, are returning to Westminster with TWO top winning, beautiful show dogs to compete among the more than 3,000 dogs in the events of Westminster Week, which includes the iconic All-Breed Dog Show and its 3rd Annual Masters Agility Championship at Westminster.One is a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier named Crawford. Crawford is the #1 Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier for 2018 and thus far for 2019. JT, a Bouvier, is ranked #2 in the country for 2018 and will also be returning this year to compete.JT & CRAWFORD – will all be available and on-site at Meyer’s Tails Up Farmthis Thursday, February 7th as they prepare for departure on Friday. Gwen and Kent will be available for interview and to show the dogs on that day – please contact Gwen at: Email:KGMEYER@MEYERSPETCARE.COM Telephone: 815-623-9999

Welcome to From Center Ice, a new article series all about the Rockford IceHogs. I’ll try to keep this stuff as civilized as possible. . . but I’m not going to make any promises. If there’s anything I’m passionate about, it’s the Piggies. But, I will do my best. Because I was starting this series, I contacted the Blackhawks and asked them to send down Henri Jokiharju. I figured it would make for an interesting piece to kick this thing off! Okay, maybe I don’t have that kind of influence, but a girl can dream, right? They must have at least known this was coming because the IceHogs were gifted with the young and super-talented blue-liner AND it just so happened that there was a firework show ON THE ICE after the game. There’s so much to talk about, so let’s just get into it. Friday night, the IceHogs took on their bitter rival The Chicago Wolves. It’s been an up and down season series this year after the IceHogs swept them in the 2018 post season. Games against the Wolves are always hard fought and they get the crowd riled up. Henri Jokiharju lit the place up by scoring his first professional goal to tie the game at 1. That goal sparked the young Fin, the crowd, and the team. They didn’t look back and held up their strong play to beat the Wolves 5-2! Alexandre Fortin, William Pelletier, and Victor Edjsell also got on the score sheet betting goals of their own. We can’t possibly overlook the performance of Finnish goaltender Kevin Lankinen. He was owning his crease Friday night coming up with some absolutely huge saves to keep the Hogs ahead of their Illinois Lottery Cup rivals, the Wolves. Lankinen is a promising prospect in net, so it’s good to see him consistently post games with big saves to keep his team in it. The 23 year-old goaltender has appeared in 12 games with the IceHogs this season and sports a .910 sv%. This was the IceHogs 3rd consecutive win. They picked up another victory in overtime Saturday night in Milwaukee. The Hogs went on a slide in the standings after losing Head Coach Jeremy Colliton and young stud goaltender Collin Delia to the Chicago Blackhawks. Now that Rockford has been gifted with Jokiharju, they can turn this thing around and get back to the playoffs where anything can happen.In 37 games with the Blackhawks, Jokiharju notched 12 assists and a -6 rating. He spent a lot of time on the top defensive pair with Duncan Keith which is an awesome opportunity for a young player coming out of Juniors. He didn't look out of place at all, but the organization wanted to get him playing top minutes in every situation, so Rockford is blessed with his presence until they pluck him back from us. Henri also participated in the 2019 World Junior Championship and was on the gold-medal winning Finland squad. He scored 2 goals and 5 assists for 7 points in the tournament. The next home game is Wednesday, February 6 at 7:00 pm vs Wilkes-Barre Scranton. They’ll also be home at the BMO Harris Bank Center on Friday and Saturday taking on the Tuscon Roadrunners. The IceHogs have a home-heavy schedule this month. They’ll look to take advantage of home ice and pick up as many points as possible. Grab your tickets and come cheer on the boys. Tickets are available online at Ticketmaster or at the BMO Harris Bank Center Box Office.

Welcome to From Center Ice, a new article series all about the Rockford IceHogs. I’ll try to keep this stuff as civilized as possible. . . but I’m not going to make any promises. If there’s anything I’m passionate about, it’s the Piggies. But, I will do my best. Because I was starting this series, I contacted the Blackhawks and asked them to send down Henri Jokiharju. I figured it would make for an interesting piece to kick this thing off! Okay, maybe I don’t have that kind of influence, but a girl can dream, right? They must have at least known this was coming because the IceHogs were gifted with the young and super-talented blue-liner AND it just so happened that there was a firework show ON THE ICE after the game. There’s so much to talk about, so let’s just get into it. Friday night, the IceHogs took on their bitter rival The Chicago Wolves. It’s been an up and down season series this year after the IceHogs swept them in the 2018 post season. Games against the Wolves are always hard fought and they get the crowd riled up. Henri Jokiharju lit the place up by scoring his first professional goal to tie the game at 1. That goal sparked the young Fin, the crowd, and the team. They didn’t look back and held up their strong play to beat the Wolves 5-2! Alexandre Fortin, William Pelletier, and Victor Edjsell also got on the score sheet betting goals of their own. We can’t possibly overlook the performance of Finnish goaltender Kevin Lankinen. He was owning his crease Friday night coming up with some absolutely huge saves to keep the Hogs ahead of their Illinois Lottery Cup rivals, the Wolves. Lankinen is a promising prospect in net, so it’s good to see him consistently post games with big saves to keep his team in it. The 23 year-old goaltender has appeared in 12 games with the IceHogs this season and sports a .910 sv%. This was the IceHogs 3rd consecutive win. They picked up another victory in overtime Saturday night in Milwaukee. The Hogs went on a slide in the standings after losing Head Coach Jeremy Colliton and young stud goaltender Collin Delia to the Chicago Blackhawks. Now that Rockford has been gifted with Jokiharju, they can turn this thing around and get back to the playoffs where anything can happen.In 37 games with the Blackhawks, Jokiharju notched 12 assists and a -6 rating. He spent a lot of time on the top defensive pair with Duncan Keith which is an awesome opportunity for a young player coming out of Juniors. He didn't look out of place at all, but the organization wanted to get him playing top minutes in every situation, so Rockford is blessed with his presence until they pluck him back from us.Henri also participated in the 2019 World Junior Championship and was on the gold-medal winning Finland squad. He scored 2 goals and 5 assists for 7 points in the tournament. The next home game is Wednesday, February 6 at 7:00 pm vs Wilkes-Barre Scranton. They’ll also be home at the BMO Harris Bank Center on Friday and Saturday taking on the Tuscon Roadrunners. The IceHogs have a home-heavy schedule this month. They’ll look to take advantage of home ice and pick up as many points as possible. Grab your tickets and come cheer on the boys. Tickets are available online at Ticketmaster or at the BMO Harris Bank Center Box Office.

So you're probably wondering who is Xavier Whitford (it’s pronounced Sha vee air). My name is always a conversation starter. It’s French and means little darling. Apparently my mom thought she was going to birth a sweet little darling, but instead she got a strong willed, sassy, and annoyingly motivated girl. Most people who see my name assume I am a male. I am not. So a little about me; I grew up in Harvard, a small farm town. We moved to Rockford when I was 16 and lived here for a couple years before moving back to Harvard. In 2003, I planted my roots in the Rockford area after finding the love of my life, Cory. A few years later, I accepted a position with the City of Rockford in the Finance Department where I have been working since. It was never my plan to work in local government, however I found out quickly that it was a great opportunity and good fit for me. I love our City and am proud to work where I do. There are so many amazing places to eat and things to do. We are blessed with an abundance of gorgeous outdoor areas, an amazing river walk, and cool museums. But what I love most is the heart of the people who live and work here. Rockford is filled with so many selfless, loving, and giving people. I have a beautiful and motivated 21 year old daughter who attend University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee majoring in Occupational Therapy and is on their dance team. I am also a Gigi (grandma) to a beautiful 3½ year old little girl. I am a Pastor’s wife and have served as a youth leader for students for the past 15 years. I spend most of my spare time advocating and supporting people. I am passionate about helping people live their best life physically, mentally, and spiritually. Mental health is a deep-rooted passion of mine. In 2014, I lost my 19 year old son Tommy to suicide as a result of depression. After losing him I immersed myself to better understand how individuals can get to a point of feeling life isn’t worth living. I have listened, I mean really listened, to teens and adults share their stories of fighting depression and suicidal thoughts to learn and understand the factors. This has allowed me to have deep compassion and empathy for those who live with mental illness. There is so much stigma and silence around the topics of mental illness and suicide. I work everyday to end the silence and break the stigma. In our community, I have become a bit of a resource expert in order to help connect others with the help they need. The good news is we have a lot of really great resources locally. The bad news is there is not enough and our suicide rates are increasing, but I believe that instead of complaining about what’s wrong we can take action to be part of the change that is needed. Anyone who knows me also knows that physical health is also an important part of my life. After watching many I love die as a result of physical illnesses that could have been prevented had they made healthier choices, I found myself making my own health a priority. I, myself, struggled with weight and unhealthy habits for years. I was always taking care of everyone else, I forgot to take care of myself. In November 2016, I decided to change that and started a health journey where I lost 45 pounds, but more important than the weight loss, I gained a healthier lifestyle, more energy, and confidence and let go of a lot of health issues and physical pain. I love to cook, find new healthy recipes, and support others to a healthier lifestyle so they can live their best life. I hope that through my articles, I can open your mind to various health topics and illustrate how incredibly blessed we are to have organizations and individuals working to improve and provoke needed change in our community. 

Are you interested in a passenger rail system coming through Boone and Winnebago counties?You can expect topics such as pricing, service options, the process, and associated costs to be covered. The presentation and panel is hosted by Representatives Joe Sosnowski, Jeff Keicher, Maurice West, Senators Steve Stadelman, Dave Syverson, and Region 1 Planning Council.All residents from Boone and Winnebago counties are invited to come and participate on Friday, February 8, at 3:30 pm. The workshop is being held at Giavanni’s Restaurant & Convention Center. Seating is limited, so reserve your spot by calling (815) 547-3436 or emailing sosnowski@ilhousegop.org.

WE HAVE A BREAK FROM THE POLAR VORTEX!!! It isn't going to last long though, so this is the best time to emerge from your caves and have some fun. Here is your Weekend Roundup! Sidenote - we have some awesome new stuff dropping on Monday... STAY TUNED!Friday, February 1, 2019Sam Adams Lobster Boil @ The Olympic Tavern - view event11:00 amRPL's Maker Mixer @ Hart Interim Library - view event5:30 pm - 7:30 pmEspinosa & Coffey @ Cucina Di Rosa - view event6:00 pm - 9:00 pmRockford IceHogs vs Chicago Wolves @ BMO Harris Bank Center - view event7:00 pmGood Karrma @ Louie's Tap House - view event9:00 pm - 1:00 amErnie Hendrickson Band @ Mary's Place - view event9:30 pm - 1:30 amSaturday, February 2, 2019Yoga On Stage @ Coronado PAC - view event10:00 am - 11:15 amValentine Pet Photos @ Bark On Mulford - view event10:00 am - 3:00 pmElevate 815 @ The Workforce Connection - view event11:00 am - 2:00 pmThe Iliad, the Odyssey, and All of Greek Mythology in 99 Minutes @ The Nordlof Center - view event2:00 pm - 4:00 pmName The Moon and Taboo Blah Blah @ Mary's Place - view event9:30 pm - 1:30 amSunday, February 3, 2019Super Bowl Sunday w/ Minimal @ Louie's Tap House - view event12:00 pm - 3:00 pmValentine Pet Photos @ Bark On Mulford - view event12:00 pm - 3:00 pmThe Iliad, the Odyssey, and All of Greek Mythology in 99 Minutes @ The Nordlof Center - view event2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden is proud to announce it has received a $5,000 grant for improvements to support increased engagement with the Latino community. The grant was awarded by the Dr. Courtney J. & Margaret Hutchins Hamlin Family Fund of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois’ Community Grants Program.“This grant funds the translation and printing of our Trail Guide into Spanish, so we can serve a broader audience and expand the learning opportunities at Klehm to even more people,” said Alex Mills, Executive Director of Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden.“The grant also funds new directional signage in English and Spanish at our entrance and on our grounds, so we can make the arboretum and gardens more inviting and accessible to everyone. We want to be a better neighbor and a better resource to the entire community - there is just is so much to learn, explore and enjoy here, we want everyone to be able to take advantage of what we have to offer.’ Mills continued.“We are thrilled to be able to better deliver on our mission: To maintain a living museum for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of all people.” Mills said.About Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden:Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden is Rockford’s 155-acre “living museum” and operates as a private 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, membership based organization supported through membership dues, donations, sponsorships, grants, fundraisers and subsidies, in partnership with the Forest Preserve of Winnebago County.About the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois:The mission of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois is to serve as a catalyst for giving in order to attract, preserve, and grow an endowment for current and future needs of Northern Illinois. Since its founding in 1953 CFNIL has granted more than $71 million for charitable purposes. Learn more about CFNIL’s grantmaking and commitment to endowment at cfnil.org.

We have some terribly cold weather coming our way. It’s going to reach levels that are not safe to be out in for long periods of time. While some people will be able to stay in their homes, there are way too many people that do not have that opportunity. The City of Rockford and Second Congregational UCC/First Presbyterian Church of Rockford have come together to provide a short-term overnight café. It will run from Monday, January 28, 2019 through Thursday, January 31, 2019 from 9:00 pm – 7:00 am inside Second/First Church. According to the church’s website, “This program aims to provide a warm, well-lit and fully-supervised gym with tables and chairs, movies and cards, coffee and hot chocolate.”Second/First church is located at 318 N Church St in Rockford. According to their website, "You can even bring a furry friend (we have accommodations for pets and folks with pet allergies).  Because no one should die in the cold in this great city."If you would like to donate to the cause or find more information follow THIS LINK.

Which one of you asked for all of this snow?! You better check out the Family Ski Day with Rocktown Adventures. For the rest of you like are over it being winter, there are some great shows in town this weekend and the IceHogs are back home! Here's your Weekend Roundup!Friday, January 25, 2019Universal Joint @ The Hope & Anchor - view event6:00 pm - 9:00 pmRockford IceHogs vs Manitoba Moose @ BMO Harris Bank Center - view event7:00 pmComedy Night @ Franchescos - view event8:30 pm - 11:00 pmThe Sensations featuring Holland Zander @ Mary's Place - view event9:30 pm - 1:30 amSaturday, January 26, 2019Sports Card Show @ Forest Hills Lanes - view event9:30 am - 2:00 pmRAM @ RAM Art Show + Sale @ Rockford Art Museum - view event10:00 am - 4:00 pmWinter Hike @ Severson Dells - view event10:00 am - 11:30 amHuman Library @ RPL East Branch - view event11:00 am - 1:00 pmFamily Ski Day @ Sinnissippi - view event1:00 pm - 3:00 pmRockford IceHogs vs Iowa Wild @ BMO Harris Bank Center - view event6:00 pmJay Owenhouse @ Coronado PAC - view event7:30 pmGo Go Torpedo @ Mary's Place - view event9:30 pm - 1:30 amSunday, January 27, 2019Star Wars Sunday @ Discovery Center Museum - view event1:00 pm - 4:00 pmPool Class: Open Pool Session @ Boylan Swim Complex - view event3:30 pm - 6:30 pm