Positive News, Stories, & Rockford Buzz Polls

Strike the Box Pipes and Cigars offers a relaxed environment where you can purchase and enjoy their pipes or cigars in one of the comfortable leather chairs or on their outdoor patio. You can rent this relaxing atmosphere for a company outing or meeting as well.

Sean Kenney's Nature Connects Made with LEGO® Bricks, an award-winning and record-breaking exhibition that uses beautiful works of art made from simple toy blocks to explore animal endangerment, the balance of ecosystems, and mankind’s relationship with nature is coming to Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden in Rockford, Illinois this summer, beginning June 11, 2022.Produced by Imagine Exhibitions, Nature Connects depicts important topics that the New York artist, Sean Kenney, holds dear, such as protecting an animals’ habitat or planting a garden. Nature Connects further shows that just as LEGO® bricks interconnect, everything in nature is interconnected in a delicate balance. The narratives, along with the intricate displays, also explore the importance of conservation, the balance of ecosystems, predator/prey relationships, and the relationships between humankind and the natural world.Tom Zaller, CEO of Imagine Exhibitions shared, “Imagine Exhibitions is proud to partner with Sean Kenney to bring the creative vision of Nature Connects to Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden. The messages in the exhibition about our connection to nature are beautifully presented and effectively weaved into the story in the hopes of inspiring visitors to think more about mankind’s impact on the greater world around us.”Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden is Rockford’s “living museum”, filled with rare trees, unique features, and special gardens such as the Nancy Olson Children’s Garden. With over 2 miles of paved paths and over 3 miles of unpaved trails, the 155-acre botanic garden and arboretum is an ideal setting for guests of all ages to explore and enjoy Nature Connects.Come explore the beauty and wonder of Sean Kenney's Nature Connects Made with LEGO® Bricks, open daily to the public from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, 7 days a week, for a limited engagement from June 11 to September 11, 2022. Plan your visit today!Sean Kenney's Nature Connects Made with LEGO® Bricks at Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden is made possible in part by the Dean Alan Olson Foundation and the Kjellstrom Family Foundation.More information about Sean Kenney's Nature Connects Made with LEGO® Bricks can be found on Klehm’s website: www.klehm.org/nature-connects

Right on the corner of E. State and Madison, you'll find Omakase, a ramen and sushi bar. We ventured in on a particularly hungry night to sample... almost everything.We started with Gyoza, traditional pork dumplings pan cooked with chili ponzu s.auce, and Crab Rangoon. Nothing beats a good appetizer, especially here! Everything was delivered hot and with the most amazing sauces. Gyoza is a personal favorite of mine, so I may be a little biased. They were delicious. I will be back.Next, we thought an entree would be the best choice. We went with the Teriyaki Steak dinner. We asked for it to be prepared rare, and this is definitely the place for you if you like your steak rare. They get it, they support it, they prepare it right. This was served with a generous heap (yes, heap) of grilled vegetables with amazing flavor. You get your choice of fried or white rice, and we wholeheartedly recommend the fried rice. It had such a fresh flavor and was definitely worth the extra few bucks. By now, we were full... but we knew we couldn't stop here.It was time for sushi! We ordered the Yellow Tail, the Scallop Roll, and the Omakase Roll. We couldn't pass up ordering their namesake roll that features scallops, crab, avocado, green onion, baked with a sweet soy mao and sriracha sauce, and topped with masago and red tobiko. The Yellow Tail and Scallop Roll were great mild choices, perfect for anyone new to sushi. The Omakase Roll brought some heat in a delicious way! This is a bolder roll, but we are glad we ordered it. The presentation alone was beautiful.Of course, we finished with mochi. And we recommend you do as well. Be sure to make a reservation, as they fill up fast on busy nights. It's worth the extra planning for this delicious experience.

The 2nd annual Rockton Pelican Fest will be held May 21, 2022, 10 AM to 3 PM in downtown Rockton and is presented by the Village of Rockton, JR Finally Art Studio & Gallery, Natural Land Institute and Sinnissippi Audubon Society.It’s a free family oriented event that gives people of all ages the opportunity to learn about and celebrate the return of the American White Pelicans to the Rock River and nearby Nygren Wetland Preserve during their migration period.Families and individuals will be able to spend time together exploring historic downtown Rockton, local shops, restaurants, outdoor vendor booths, participating in activities, and attending lectures about birds and other wildlife. Local shops and restaurants will have pelican-themed specials, the booths will host kids activities and some might even have a live bird to see. Rockton Village Hall will host presentations at 11 AM by “Hoo” Haven with their pelican, Rocky Road, and at 1 PM Jennifer Kuroda, President, Sinnissippi Audubon Society, will talk about Peregrine Falcons. Talcott Free Library will host kids activities, displays, and other information related to pelicans and wildlife.Stateline Mass Transit District will be providing a free shuttle bus service from downtown Rockton to the Nygren Wetland Preserve Wildlife Overlook (3714 W. Rockton Rd., Rockton) throughout the festival. A knowledgeable volunteer will be there to greet visitors and talk about birds and other wildlife. Free guided walking tours of Nygren Wetland will start at the Wildlife Overlook at 11 AM and 12:30 PM. An Early Bird Walk is scheduled for 7:30 AM at the Wildlife Overlook presented by Sinnissippi Audubon Society.Rockton Pelican Fest is sponsored by Winnebago County Pheasants Forever and Sinnissippi Audubon Society.For more information about participating businesses and specials, booths and kids activities, and other information visit: www.naturalland.org, www.sinnissippiaudubon.org, and www.jillraefinallyart.com.

Haven’t been to Octane in a while? A lot has changed, and the flavors are amazing! Don’t worry, their staple menu items are still there for our nostalgic souls to enjoy.  You don’t go to Octane and skip the drink menu. Their unique cocktail list and flavors truly make drinking an experience. Ask for a virgin concoction to get the experience without the alcohol.Next up, an appetizer. We had to try the Pork Lumpia. I know, this is technically an entree… but we do what we want around here. I had been craving these for months and all that anticipation did not let me down. These were everything I wanted them to be. The sweet chili sauce was light, not syrupy, and the simple dish was really elevated with the garlic fried rice. 10/10, will order again!When we got around to the main event, we had to try a bao. We went for the light flavors in the Seared Tuna Bao, and added fries because potatoes are sacred. This bad has marinated tuna, cucumbers, daikon radish, and sesame lime mayo. This is great for folks that love light and fresh flavors!Last but not least, we tried the Beef Bulgogi Noodles with the gluten free twist of subbing rice for the noodles. The flavors in this bowl were phenomenal. Anyone who can fry the perfect egg is my hero, and this was perfection. Nothing beats breaking the yolk and letting it flow. Served with chopsticks, I have to take a moment to thank Octane for preparing the steak and veggies to the right size for forkless dining. You can also order this mild, medium, or hot… and they bring hot sauce out if you really love spice and can’t get enough. I loaded mine up with heat and loved every bite.  We cannot wait to go back and enjoy all the new items on the menu! 

Rockford celebrates their rich baseball history as A League of Their Own celebrates it’s 30th anniversary! July 4th weekend is full of Rockford Peaches celebratory events, all building toward the celebrity baseball game.We're thrilled to have Megan Cavanagh (played Marla 'What a Hitter' Hooch) sharing her warmth and humor with the Rockford community again after having headlined the 75th Anniversary Celebration of the Rockford Peaches in 2018. Megan will be an integral part of our Celebration at all venues. She has proved to be a real League of Their Own fan favorite!The International Women's Baseball Center (IWBC) and its League of Their Own 30th Celebration (LOTO30) Committee has chosen July 1st to kick-off this two-day party for Rockford because it will be 30 years to that the movie premiered - July 1, 1992.*****The Suds Bucket Bash!*****5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Friday, July 1, 2022The Standard, 214 E. State St., Rockford, IL$100 per person / 400 person capacityThe evening includes live and video entertainment, autograph and photo opportunities with Megan as well as players from the original Rockford Peaches and the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL). Special appearances by students from The Studio performing songs from this summer's debut of the original production of the "Girls of Summer" about the Rockford Peaches and pop-up 40s swing dancers hit the floor when you least expect it! Move over Madonna!Who can forget that raucous Suds Bucket bar scene from A League of Their Own and Marla Hooch's boozy rendition of "It's Got to Be You"? Join us and Megan Cavanagh fora special 1940s party for 400 sponsors and guests on the top two floors of The Standard with rooftop patio views ofthe City and the Market below.Guests can partake of appetizers and desserts catered by Greenfire, as well as cash bar offerings and Signature drinks from the Suds Bucket bars on both floors.After Megan Cavanagh arrives by limo to meet the press and greet the crowd from the Pavilion Stage, Friday night's Celebration gets underway. The Market theme is everything "Peaches" - from food to special vendor merchandise. IWBC's 1940s Peaches-era bus will be parked adjacent to the Market for photo ops. The bus restoration's $100,000 goal is the focus of the LOTO30 Celebration and GoFundMe campaign.Limited edition LOTO30 merchandise benefiting IWBC will be sold at the SPoRT booth in the lower level of the City Market building. IWBC's booth will host AAGPBL players signing autographs, Midway Village Museum joins the Rockford Park District in their booth with Rockford Peaches displays and children's activities celebrating baseball.*****Friday Night Flix Showing of A League of Their Own*****7:00 PM to Movie End, Friday, July 1, 2022Davis Park, Rockford, ILFree to the publicFriday Night Flix hosts a special showing of A League of Their Own, voted one of the top ten sports movies of all time. Pre-movie entertainment includes 1940s-era swing dancers recreating scenes from the movie at the Suds Bucket, along with students from The Studio performing songs from their upcoming original musical "Girls of Summer."The International Women's Baseball Center will provide baseball-themed activities while kids are waiting for the movie to start and one small complimentary Peaches pennant will be handed out to the first 300 children under 12 as they enter the park. Vintage cars and trucks from the 40s and 50s will be displayed next to Davis Park for nostalgic photo ops with friends and family Just before the movie starts Megan Cavanagh, who played Marla Hooch, arrives to greet the crowd.*****IWBC Meet & Greet at Beyer Park*****10:00 AM to 11:30 AM, Saturday, July 2, 202215th Ave. and Seminary St., Rockford, ILFree to the publicIWBC Board members will be set up on the actual grounds of the future $10 million museum site to talk to the public about their plans. AAGPBL players and Megan Cavanagh will be on hand to sign autographs ahead of the afternoon's Celebrity Softball Game.Children's activities related to baseball in the STEAM Zone will be available for families to enjoy ahead of the afternoon Celebrity Softball Game.*******Celebrity Baseball Game*****12 Noon to 1:30 PM, Saturday, July 2, 2022Beyer Park Field on Seminary St., Rockford, ILFree to the publicMayor Tom McNamara throws out the first pitch to start a rambunctious, but friendly, game of softball before adoring fans of the movie. The Opposing Team boasts local softball talent from RVC, the Screw City Sluggers, Rockford Park District, Rockford 60+ Softball and Midwest Aftershock Softball.Play by Play Announcer Mike Peck, Sr. Director for Marketing & Content for the IceHogs, and Color Announcer Bob 'Mr. Baseball' Presman, will keep the audience laughing. Food and drink vendors will be on site offering a variety of ballpark fare.Megan Cavanagh, who played Marla 'What a Hitter' Hooch, will join a local celebrity team Beyer field to reprise her 2018 appearance for the 75th Anniversary of the RockfordPeaches and the AAGPBL.Events and details can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/ALeagueOfTheirOwn30

The sun will come out tomorrow! This weekend is PACKED with fun things to do with Mom and anyone else you love. And with warmer weather on the horizon… let’s just call this the unofficial start of summer.FridayYoga! Yoga! Yoga! …I don’t think that’s how that goes… but regardless, yoga has returned to Anderson Japanese Gardens, hosted by 815Yoga. With single drop in prices and packages available, anyone can find their zen.Who likes wine and supporting their community!? Us too. KFACT (Keeping Families and Communities Together), is celebrating the successes of the Lady All Stars mentoring program by partnering with Artale Wine Co. to raise awareness and funds for KFACT class of 2022 graduating class! Join them in raising funds to provide each KFACT graduating high school senior with college and career essentials for their transition into post-secondary education. Get your tickets at the door for $15 (Cash Only).SaturdayCars and Coffee kicks off this Saturday! Coffee, donuts, Girl Scout cookies, a special appearance by Hammy from the IceHogs, and so much more. We hear rumors that there will even be a Model T hanging out.  The Kentucky Derby is running and the place to see all the action is Shooter’s Tap Room above Don Carter Lanes. With food trucks, live music, and more, this is going to be the biggest Derby Party around. Place your bets, and let the race begin!SundayIt’s Mother’s Day! Treat your mom, or mom-figure, to a day of delicious eats. Start with brunch at Franchesco’s and then head over to Barnstormer Distillery for floral cocktails and BBQ.Don’t make mom do dishes…Find all the details for these events and more: https://rockfordbuzz.com/events

If you have never been to the Waffle Shop off of Riverside, it's time to wander in for a meal. Whether you prefer breakfast or lunch, this menu has something for everyone and prices that will bring you back for more.We couldn't go to the Waffle Shop and not order a waffle, of course. We stuck with the traditional belgian waffle, without any toppings, to give us the best test of this item. If you like to suit up your waffle, they have plenty of toppings to choose from. This waffle did not disappoint! The crisp crust gave through to a fluffy interior. The crust kept the waffle from getting soggy, and let's face it... no one wants a soggy waffle. I actually sampled the waffle last, and it was still crisp by the end of the meal. Served with warm syrup and butter, the waffle is a meal in itself, but you know we didn't stop there.Skillets are my personal breakfast favorite. There is just something about a pile of random meat, vegetables, cheeses, and more on a plate that gets my mouth watering. We gave the corn beef hash skillet a try. Now, I understand that corn beef hash is a polarizing breakfast item. You either love it, or you hate it. Personally, I love it. It came with my choice of cheese, red peppers, onions, and more. It came from the kitchen piping hot, and with a side of hot sauce. The flavors really meld together, and the generous portion got me through a long day of work. What I truly appreciated was the fresh vegetables. No canned mushrooms here. Everything looked freshly hand-prepped and tasted amazing.We looked over the menu and saw a few fan favorites like Swedish pancakes, chicken and waffles, and a full lunch menu... in case eggs and bacon aren't your thing. Stop in and give the Waffle Shop a try for your next breakfast outing.

Stepping Stones of Rockford is proud to announce it will hold a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Open House to give the public an opportunity to tour our new outpatient Counseling Center. The event will be held, during nationally recognized Mental Health Month, on Thursday, May 12, 2022 from 11:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. The Ribbon Cutting ceremony will be at 11:30 a.m., followed by tours of the facility. About the Counseling Center: The Counseling Center serves children aged six and older, adolescents and adults with severe emotional disturbances or serious mental illnesses, and their families. The center was made possible by a generous grant from the Winnebago County Community Mental Health Board (WCCMHB), whose funding is generated by a voter approved 1/2 cent sales tax to help fund mental health and substance abuse services throughout Winnebago County. Services at the center include: Comprehensive Assessment and Individualized Treatment; On-Site and Tele-Psychiatry; Individual and Family Counseling and Case Management. Services are prioritized for those who are eligible for Medicaid but are available to anyone in need who qualifies. To schedule an assessment or make a referral, please call 779-970-5605. Susan Schroeder, CEO, LCSW of Stepping Stones of Rockford, Inc. said about the Counseling Center: “It has been my dream for years for Stepping Stones to bring mental health services to children, adolescents and their families. We are grateful to the voters of Winnebago County and the Winnebago County Community Mental Health Board for helping to make this a reality. I believe members of our community, who need mental health services, should have choices in where they receive that care. This center is now available to offer another option for counseling and related care.” 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 adolescents with severe emotional disturbances and housing and psychiatric rehabilitation services for 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 community based residential programs designed to meet the housing and recovery needs of adults with serious mental illnesses. To learn more about Stepping Stones, please visit https://steppingstonesrockford.org.

This weekend, it’s gonna be MAY! Thanks, Justin Timberlake, for the awesome segue. It’s also going to be the last round of Earth Month events, a huge weekend of comedy, and a flashback game of baseball as the Peaches take the field.FridayNicholas Conservatory is hosting a tree giveaway to homeowners, provided by Living Lands & Waters as part of their Million Trees Project.12-24” Red, Swamp White, and Bur Oak bare root saplings, suitable for your residence, will be available for pick-up in the Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens parking lot.Comedy is all over town! Check out Ernie’s Midtown Pub, Franchesco’s, the Coronado, and more to get your laugh on.SaturdayKick-off your paddle season with Rocktown Adventure’s Paddle Sports Demo Day. Test paddle kayaks, canoes, and SUPs under the watchful eye of our paddlesport staff in short 10-15 minute segments and really learn what fits you best. You will get some paddling tips, so there is knowledge to be had!Wolf Hollow strongly believes that you should never have to apologize or be made to feel indifferent for loving the strange things that make your weird little heart happy, and that all starts by encouraging the youth to express that. They will have 7 local artists ages 9 to 15 selling their wonderfully strange and unusual artwork. Come show your support for these unique young artists!SundayJoin Midway Village to celebrate the seasonal opening of their Victorian Village and watch the women of the Rockford Peaches Living History League play ball! Visitors can also tour the Victorian Village, view the Rockford Peaches exhibit in the Main Museum Center, and shop unique Rockford Peaches merchandise.Find all the details for these events and more: https://rockfordbuzz.com/events

My daily commute recently changed, bringing me past Windsor Pizza Parlor regularly! As a self-proclaimed pizza aficionado, I couldn't leave the pie unsampled for long.We walked in and really loved the theme. There are race car memorabilia everywhere, giving you plenty to look at while you smell the delicious pizza cooking. We started the meal with their Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks. Garlic. Parmesan. Bread in stick form. Need we say more? These came out piping hot and with a side of warm sauce. Warm. That's an extra step that I truly appreciate.When it came time to order pizza, we built our own, right down to our crust style. You get to choose from braided, edgeless, or double (if you like A LOT of dough). We went with edgeless because it's not an option we often see on menus! I personally love a messy meal and edge-to-edge toppings, so this was a great option. But honestly, I went back a second time to order the braided pizza... because I had to try their original crust after finding out that it's made fresh and never frozen. If you prefer your pizza with handles, the braided crust won't disappoint. It has a crisp outer shell, but the dough inside is soft. The braid offers a distinctive look that sets Windsor Pizza Parlor apart.If pizza isn't your thing, don't worry! They have a full menu with burgers, wings, and more. Looking for a fast lunch? Try their lunch special: $5.75 for 2 slices of pizza and a soda.Try them out for your next meal!

As the RPS 205 2021-2022 school year comes to an end, KFACT, Keeping Families and Communities Together, is celebrating the successes of the Lady All-Stars mentoring program by partnering with Artale Wine Co. to raise awareness and funds for KFACT. KFACT has maintained a 100% high school graduation outcome for all mentees in the program for the past 8 years and this year graduating class of 5 mentees have all been accepted into a college or university to pursue post-secondary education. It is the belief of KFACT that education is one way to alleviate generational poverty for kids who wouldn’t otherwise end this cycle!KFACT will use the funds from this year’s wine tasting event to provide each graduating senior with a dorm basket filled with dorm room essentials.Event Details:What: KFACT’s Annual Wine Tasting with Artale Wine Co.When: Friday, May 6th, 5:30 pm until 8:30 pmWhere: Artale Wine Co. 6876 Spring Creek Rd # 128 Rockford, Il 61114About KFACT (Keeping Families and Communities Together)KFACT is a youth development and mentoring organization established to alleviate opportunity gaps among young ladies attending Rockford public schools. KFACT specializes in providing an array of comprehensive services such as school-based prevention programs, intervention services, youth advocacy, college and career mentorship, and transitional assistance upon completion of high school to post-secondary education.

This weekend, the scene is all about our earth and art! Join our city in the art takeover and support local artists, while celebrating Earth Day.FridayRockford Art Deli is doing a free print on Earth Day itself from 12pm-6pm. In collaboration with Allmade Apparel, bring in any older tee to recycle, and they will give you a brand new Allmade unisex adult tee FREE to get the second globe design printed on! ArtScene kicks off! ArtScene is a regional, biannual, gallery walk hosted at over 30 locations throughout Winnebago County. During ArtScene, existing galleries, and pop-up galleries alike, display and sell the work of dozens of local artists. Admission to every venue is free and open to the public.Spring ArtScene’s kickoff will begin with the Poetry Prelude, 4 p.m., at Rockford City Hall.Spring ArtScene 2022 is April 22 and 23—5-9 p.m. on Friday night and 4-9 p.m. on Saturday night.All venues will have maps/artist listings for visitors.SaturdayRecord Store Day is here! Stop by Culture Shock all day for live music, food trucks, deals, and VINYL. Everything is first come first serve, so get there early to get your top picks.Fashion is an amazing form of art. Celebrate it with a local boutique crawl featuring 18 of Rockford's Boutiques. Pick up a punch card at one of the participating stores, shop, buy and get your card punched. Get at least 5 punches to be entered into a HUGE drawing of a $25 gift card from EACH store.SundayEnjoy the 38th annual Heritage Run, sponsored by Winnebago County CASA! Run through scenic Midway Village. View the beauty and history of Rockford while supporting children in our community.Think you are the best gamer? If you’ve got what it takes, come and compete against others in the Rockford Rumble 13 Super Mash Bros Ultimate Tournament.Find all the details for these events and more: https://rockfordbuzz.com/events

If you are a local beer fan, you are a Prairie Street Brewhouse fan. They offer a huge variety of food and drink, giving you (and us!) a reason to visit them regularly. If outdoor dining is your thing, it is perfect on their expansive dock with a stunning river view. Let’s dive in!Life is not complete without appetizers, so we started with the Not So Irish Spring Rolls: house-made corned beef brisket, sauerkraut, Swiss and white cheddar cheese rolled in a crispy wonton and served with thousand island dressing. I urge you to try these, even if sauerkraut is not a regular in your dining menu. The flavors melt together beautifully for a savory kick-off to your meal. It pairs well with many of the beers as well. This was a pretty hearty app as well, always a pleasant experience!For dinner, we started with the Baja-style Shrimp Tacos: black garlic marinated shrimp, Baja sauce, cabbage slaw, queso fresco, spicy pickled red onion & sweet corn, and cilantro on flour tortillas. Served with chips and delicious salsa. This one has a bit of a spicy kick! If you are sensitive to spice, be aware. Spice fans will enjoy the subtle heat that doesn’t mask the other wonderful flavors on these tacos. The shrimp are large and flavorful.Next up was the Cajun Mac ’n Cheese: a blend of cheeses with ham, chicken, shallots, white wine, pasta, and breadcrumbs. This one we ordered gluten-free. One thing I truly appreciate about PSB is how well they cook their GF pasta. It doesn’t take away from the flavor or consistency of the dish. Their whole menu is very GF friendly! This one has a very subtle warmth to it, but I wouldn’t categorize it as spicy. The ham adds a fun flavor note that feels nostalgic to mom’s mac.Next time you want to eat AND drink local, check out Prairie Street Brewhouse.

Midway Village Museum is developing a new permanent exhibit to tell the story of Rockford’s Camp Grant, and they are announcing the launch of a new effort to collect artifacts and stories to support the future exhibit. Community members who have family stories and/or artifacts are encouraged to add them to our Camp Grant collection by visiting the museum website: https://www.midwayvillage.com/midway-camp-grant.html. Central to the museum’s mission to collect, preserve, and interpret the history of the Rockford region is to comprehensively tell the story of Camp Grant. As the U.S. entered World War I in 1917, Rockford community leaders successfully campaigned the federal government to build an Army Infantry Training Camp on the land where today’s airport now operates. Camp Grant soon became a significant element of the city’s growth, as new roads and public services were developed and hundreds of buildings were built with local labor and supplies. The onset of World War II saw a dramatic expansion of Camp Grant, during which 330,000 soldiers came through its gates. Camp Grant also became a center for the training of medical personnel and the housing of prisoners of war. It served as a rallying point for local war efforts, a source of job growth and economic development, and forever changed the demographics of the community’s population. The Camp Grant exhibit will become part of Midway Village Museum’s permanent exhibit space, and will use a timeline-based approach with artifacts and stories to vividly recount the history of the camp. Of particular importance will be the lasting impact on the Rockford community, including how African American soldiers who trained at Camp Grant brought a new diversity to the region. 

Easter weekend is here! Between your brunches and egg hunts, check out these great events around town.FridayGetting married? Hi Beautiful Bridal is hosting an Open House to showcase dresses, accessories, and more. Sip some delicious beverages while enjoying the inspiring atmosphere.Share your words, songs, and stories at 317 Art Collective’s monthly Open Mic, hosted by Goddess Warrior the Poet. Open mic is 6 pm - 8 pm, followed by a social hour.SaturdayCelebrate Earth Day Month by swapping plants from 1 pm - 3 pm at the Rockford Public Library on 1238 S Winnebago Street! Bring a plant to swap or come and take one. Ask questions about plant care and gardening. Share your love of plants.Celebrate the brilliant full moon at Severson Dells with a walk through the woodland and prairie while enjoying the emergence of nocturnal wildlife.SundaySunday is Easter! Enjoy one of the many brunches around town, time with your loved ones, or even a nap! The world is your Easter egg.Find all the details for these events and more: https://rockfordbuzz.com/events

Lino’s has been serving Italian classics since 1971. With the unique atmosphere, special recipes, and excellent service, we can understand why they have been a major part of the 815 for over 5 decades. This was definitely not our first time visiting Lino’s, but it is the first time we have reviewed the food!First things first, Lino’s salad. I mean, do we need to say more? The bottomless salad is something we have all craved at some point or another. The dressing is perfectly paired and able to be requested on the side if you prefer. The fresh Italian sausage and hard boiled eggs are the crown of this first course. Did you even truly experience Lino’s if you didn’t eat your weight in the salad? Next we enjoyed the Toasted Ravioli as an appetizer. My personal favorite is the GENEROUS amount of sauce that comes with it. No small side cups here! It makes a great addition to dip your bread in as well. The toasted ravioli always comes out piping out with delicious cheese melted inside. Always a hit for a table shareable.For entrees we enjoyed the Saltimbocca Alla Romana (two hand cut, tender veal cutlets seasoned with fresh sage, layered with prosciutto, and sautéed in butter), and half Mostaccioli and half Tortellini in Lino’s famous red sauce.We all know that Lino’s pasta is amazing. You cannot go wrong with the perfectly al dente dishes that start off the menu. The mostaccioli is my personal favorite, especially when you add a meatball… but if you haven’t explored the Italian classics on the menu as well, you are missing out.The Saltimbocca Alla Romana was divine! This was my first experience with veal, and it was so tender and perfectly prepared. This dish is rich, sautéed in butter, with a healthy seasoning of salt and spices to even out the flavor and delight your senses. Each bite was as delicious as the last. If you prefer a more familiar flavor, you can order this dish with chicken.Don’t forget to save room for ice cream at the end of your meal. A healthy scoop of one of their many flavors is the perfect ending to your dining experience.

As a thank-you to the community for helping to raise enough funds to replace the beautiful American flags that line East State Street periodically, Miracle Mile Rockford is holding a flag retirement ceremony to lay the old, tattered ones to rest. They will be joined by VFW Post 9759 Honor Guard, RAMI award winning singer Jodi Beach, and Boy Scout Troop 14 from Our Savior’s Lutheran Church.This very dignified ceremony should be witnessed at least once in a person’s lifetime. People are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, plus any flags they wish to retire as well. Should there be rain, the event will be postponed until May 2nd.As the old flags are polyester, they plan on retiring them in an environmentally friendly way.Miracle Mile Rockford is a non-profit business district association supporting businesses and residents from SwedishAmerican/UW Health Hospital to Rockford University, south to Charles Street and north to Guilford Road.For more information, visit https://miraclemilerockford.com/events or call Paula Olson at 815-871-0120 or info@MiracleMileRockford.com.

April snow showers bring May flowers, or something like that… The classic multiple personalities of Midwest weather are really having a moment, but so are the events around Rockford this weekend!  FridayFriday kicks off the 3-day Grand Opening celebration of Barnstormer Distillery’s new Tasting Room! Look for us enjoying a cocktail on Saturday evening.Rockton Inn Pub & Grub will be hosting Karaoke for a Cause for Hope's Legacy & Trust. Good, bad or indifferent....every song you sing will earn $1 courtesy of the DJ! Pick your song, and sing your heart out.SaturdayHow ‘bout an adult Easter egg hunt? We can’t let the kids have ALL the fun! Join Severson Dells and The Norwegian for an egg-citing and delicious early Easter celebration. Have fun with pie-iron cooking over campfires with brunch treats from The Norwegian, learn about the science of eggs in nature, and culminate the afternoon with the egg hunt.Making close observations of the insects we share our world with can be tricky as they often don't stay in one place for long. A bug box is just the thing for an amateur entomologist to help capture, observe, and return insects! In this class at Nicholas Conservatory, you will build your own bug box from durable materials. SundayNothing is better than mimosas and crafting. Grab your tickets for a fun board class at Erica’s Board Creations! Complimentary mimosas while you sand, stain and paint a new board. It's the perfect time to make a new spring porch sign, Easter sign or even a wedding gift.Are you prepared to save your pet's life? In this class at Meyer’s Tails Up Farm you will learn lifesaving skills to help protect your furry friend. This class is designed to help owners and pet care providers provide temporary urgent care to pets until they can reach a veterinary or emergency clinic.The art and music scene are truly alive this weekend. Check out your local favorites.Find all the details for these events and more: https://rockfordbuzz.com/events

International Burrito Day is April 7th! Are you ready? Do you know where to go for an amazing burrito? Rockford has a plethora of options!We wandered into Fuego Nuevo Grill to sample their burrito offerings and were not disappointed. We ordered the Burrito Mexico and the Burrito Fajita. Let's dig in!First up, the Burrito Mexico: grilled chicken, caramelized onions, sauteed mushrooms, black beans, and Mexican rice rolled up in a flour tortilla and topped with a trio of velvety sauces. The presentation of this burrito was a beautiful tribute to the Mexican flag. Each sauce had its own flavor that kept this burrito fresh with each bite.The second was the Burrito Fajita: you get to choose your meat, sauteed onions, tomatoes, poblano and red peppers, with rice and beans rolled up in a flour tortilla and topped with their homemade cheese sauce. As we all know... everything is better smothered in cheese sauce, and it was definitely smothered. This burrito came with all the normal fajita fixings: guacamole, sour cream, and more. And speaking of guacamole... definitely get the appetizer. Trust us on this one.What makes a good burrito? Whatever they did at Fuego Nuevo! The meat was seasoned perfectly, and tender. The addition of black beans was a fun twist, and the sauces were as velvety as they were flavorful.Go forth and celebrate International Burrito Day in confidence, with great friends, and delicious beverages.

I know we are all excited about the extra sunshine and the warmer weather, but we are most excited for… Food Truck season! With outdoor events on the horizon, it’s time to make sure you are ready for the amazing street eats the 815 offers.Here is a list of local food trucks. Happy eating!15th & ChrisAuthenticaThe Bells ChurrosBit of BrianaBlaz'in Magic BBQCantina TacoChili Sauce and DogsDisco ChickenFlying PigHicks BBQJ&C Old Fashioned Ice CreamJack It Up Vegan EatsJakarta CafeJammin Jerk GrillKa-BaoLa CalleMario’s TacosMarvin’s TacosMy Funnel TruckNorthside BarbaQPizza FrescaOlivo TacoThe Olive BranchRustic Oven Wood Fired PizzaSabores Mobile KitchenSausage FestSavor BBQSouth Padre Sea FoodStormy’s Grilled CheeseSweet GirlTappan ExpressThe Taco Shop 815TLK Tita’s Local KitchenT&T Jolly Wows BBQWehpahWok n RollWoodfire PizzaVee Dubs Mobile Cocktail BarVeebo’s PizzaVinces’ Gourmet Hot Dogs & SpudsYou’re Bacon Me CrazyDid we miss one? Let us know and we will add them to the list!

It is April Fool’s day, but the events around town aren’t joking around! Get out and enjoy everything the 815 has to offer… but trust no one… FridayGoddess Warrior Productions and Rockford Public Library present a National Poetry Month celebration at the RPL Nordlof Center. Join local youth as they showcase their spoken word and poetic talent on the big stage!Lucha is hosting comedy night! Did you hear about their special menu collaboration with The Pomodoro?SaturdayGet your palm read at Wolf Hollow with Palmist & Elder Witch Noah Matthew Ravenson.With butterflies in the Nicholas Conservatory, it’s a great opportunity to photograph some of the most colorful insects around. Learn macro concepts and equipment, and focus on the challenges associated with fast-moving small subjects with a Butterfly Photography class through the Rockford Park District. SundayVuture Food Truck, visiting from LA California, will serving up some of the best vegan comfort food at Barnstormer Distillery from 12:00pm to 4:00pm. Grab your friends and enjoy the vibe.Find all the details for these events and more: https://rockfordbuzz.com/events

Maybe you’ve heard about the new dinner experience on Riverside, KBQ… a Korean barbecue adventure. Never heard of Korean barbecue? Us either, so we had to check it out.First things first, the atmosphere is amazing. Music that everyone knows, stunning murals and artwork, unique lighting, an exposed kitchen, and other fun elements make this restaurant stand out.Every table has a grill, allowing you to grill your own meats. We opted for Combo 1, a solid variety of their popular selections: Bulgogi (marinated ribeye), Jeyuk Bokkeum (marinated pork), Dak Galbi (marinated chicken), Chaeggeut (striploin steak), and Chadohl (brisket). The meal came out quickly, complete with steamed rice, 6 refillable sides (that will change regularly with the seasons), 2 sauces, and a smoky salt. After a quick explanation of the various meats and sides, you start cooking! Our personal favorites were the Bulgogi, Jeyuk Bokkeum, and the Chadohl.There was plenty of space on the grill to ensure that we didn’t run out of food as the cooking continued. It was a fun evening of cooking and exploring new flavors. We cannot wait to return and explore more of the menu. For a while, we recommend making sure you have a reservation for this awesome experience.To view the menu, head to their Facebook page!

Spring has sprung in the 815… in the form of rain. But that won’t stop us from having an amazing weekend! Check out these awesome events to get a sample of spring in the 815.FridayErnie’s Midtown Pub is hosting Comedy Night! No cover charge, just great laughs and delicious food.Join 317 Art Collective for the closing reception of the current gallery show, TABOO! From 5:30 - 7:30 PM, the artists will be in the gallery to give an up close and personal look into their inspiration and creative process and will be available for questions.SaturdayJoin the Friends of the Rockford Public Library for their first of two spring book sales at the Hart Interim Library. Snag your favorites for pennies!Wolf Hollow is hosting a free live performance after hours with local Rockford band The Funeral March of the Marionettes. SundayCome compete against others in Super Smash Bros Ultimate and much more at the Rockford Public Library’s Rockford Rumble 11 Super Smash Bros Ultimate Tournament.Head to the Coronado to meet Jenna, a waitress and expert pie-maker who dreams of a way out of her small town and rocky marriage. Pouring her heart into her pies, she crafts desserts that mirror her topsy-turvy life in Waitress the musical.Be sure to get your dining reservations set for downtown before the show!Find all the details for these events and more: https://rockfordbuzz.com/events