Articles & Stories | Rockford IL

Dinner at Aero Ale House

Hunger brought us to Aero Ale House to give their menu a try! There was much debate over what to order, but we landed on a surf and turf theme. We kicked it off with the Buffalo Chicken Spring Rolls. I personally love anything dipped in buffalo sauce, so I knew these would be a hit. We were pleasantly surprised by how big they were (that's what... never mind). This was a pretty filling appetizer for a two top, and that's really what we all want in life. I definitely recommend these for your next trip.Next up were the entrees: Deep Fried Pickle Burger and the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.If you love deep fried pickles, this is the burger for you. It's stacked high with pickles, bacon, and two slices of cheese. You get your choice of house chips or fries for the perfect pub meal.The Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos were stuffed! Overflowing with large shrimp, pico, cabbage, and more, these tacos are not for the faint of heart. Your choice of corn or flour tortillas and you are all set to enjoy. If you are unfamiliar with bang bang sauce, these have delightful flavor but I wouldn't categorize them as spicy. We couldn't talk about Aero without mentioning their expansive beer and drink menu. You are sure to find something unique during your next visit.

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Article Take Over: Spring Home Maintenance with Giddens Property Service

Homeowners, here is your Spring Home Maintenance check listSpring has sprung! And this has us at Giddens Property Service jumping for joy because there’s nothing better than fresh spring air and new blooms coming up to color our city. But we’re also excited because that means spring home projects get underway! To that end, we have a list of 5 things that every homeowner should check on as the winter melts away.1. Seepage in your basement, and new water spot on ceilings, walls, and floors.Chances are if your basement has cracks in its foundation, you’ll find out the hard way as the snow melts and spring rain showers begin. An unfinished basement is easy to spot where water is flowing in and standing, but if your basement is finished you may only notice small spots on the walls or a little wet corner on the floor. These can be signs of bigger issues, that water is flowing where you definitely don’t want it to. Be sure to check all the rooms, looking over each wall and every corner, in your basement thoroughly, and take a flashlight to those areas that aren’t well lit.2. Inspect your gutters and downspouts.Spring is the perfect time to check on your gutters and downspouts to be sure there wasn’t any damage done during winter storms. Cracks in the metal or bent/missing pieces are all things that should be addressed right away. And if your gutters weren’t cleaned in the last 6 months it's likely there is a build up of leaves and debris, or more sadly, birds or rodents (yes, we’ve seen this ) that may be clogging your gutter system. For the sake of your home’s foundation, it’s important to have the water coming off your roof leading away from your house, and cleared gutters and downspouts are the key to this.3. Air-tight check doors and windows.If you’ve ever noticed that your energy bill skyrockets during the colder months, checking on your exterior windows and doors can help problem solve. It’s normal for older houses to become drafty as they age and let in or out the heat or AC that you’re running. By checking the frames of your windows and doors during a windy spring day, you’ll be able to feel the cool air flowing through. Do you have double paned windows that have become foggy and hard to see through, or collect water in between the panes? These are surefire ways to tell that your thermal windows/doors have become compromised and are no longer insulated properly.4. Inspect your outdoor wooden fixtures.Inspect your deck, patio, shed, and outside trim for damage or wood rot. Do you have wood siding on your house? You’ll want to carefully inspect the entire house for any damage or peeling/chipping paint as well. Wood rot is something that happens often to structures made from wood, and it leads to the wood becoming soft and mushy, easily buckling under pressure. It can worsen with standing snow, ice, and water throughout the years. If you have peeling or chipping paint on your deck, patio or siding it leaves the wood underneath vulnerable to weathering and potential wood rot.((We always recommend that all outside treated wood be stained or painted to help protect it from the elements. Any boards or siding panels that show signs of wood rot must be torn out and replaced with new.))5. Check seals on outside lights and spigots.Damage from storms and the elements can weather your outdoor light fixtures and if the fixture is not sealed to your siding water can get in behind the fixture and corrode the electrical components of your lighting. The age of your lighting also plays a roll, as the seal to the house can give way after some years. Checking each fixture and seal for your lights is always good practice in the spring. Spigots are commonly forgotten about as they usually require little to no maintenance, but it’s important to check if there is ice build up in the waterline from the house to the outside wall. If there is a blockage in your plumbing, you’ll see an expanded pipe that is likely to burst. If you do find a distressed pipe this is something that should be addressed immediately.Checking on and tackling these maintenance items each year will ensure that your small spring projects stay small and don’t compound into big expenses for you in the future. As Your Rockford Handyman, we at Giddens Property Service have seen all these things and more in our customer’s houses. We know just what we’re looking for and how to remedy these problems in a quick and efficient way, so if you’re finding yourself confused about what you’re seeing or overwhelmed by the process, give us a call. We’d love to help with these repairs and recommend what the next steps are.Contact us at (815) 354-2071 or mark@giddenspropertyservice.comhttp://giddenspropertyservice.com/

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Weekend Roundup: March 18-20

St. Patrick’s Day weekend is here! How are you celebrating in the 815? Can’t think of anything to do? Check out these local events.FridaySpring Cleaning at Culture Shock kicks off on Friday. Records for $1 and deals throughout the whole store is certainly something to celebrate!Dueling Pianos is live at The Pomodoro. Celebrate their one year anniversary and request your favorite song.SaturdaySaturday is all about being downtown. The Irish Marching Society's St. Patrick’s Parade begins at 3:00 pm and follows a route from 7th Street and 5th Avenue, north on 7th Street, west on State Street and north on Madison Street. Stop at Prairie Street Brewing Company before or after for the perfect celebration.SundayThe IceHogs take on the Milwaukee Admirals on Sunday at 4:00pm. Later that evening, One Night of Queen hits the stage at The Coronado.Be sure to get your dining reservations set for downtown!Find all the details for these events and more: https://rockfordbuzz.com/events

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Rockford’s Newest Steakhouse - Prime

Rockford’s Newest Steakhouse - PrimeWe ventured out to Rockford’s newest steakhouse, Prime, and we were not disappointed. Rumors have spread quickly about this new venue and the amazing food.Our experience was excellent, making a reservation was smooth and we got in right away. The service was amazing from beginning to end. But let’s dive right into the food…Now listen, normally I do not write about the bread. Bread is one of my true loves… but the bread basket never really makes the review, until today. We received a generous basket of warm bread, but the real surprise was it being accompanied by fresh roasted garlic. Our server actually removed the roasted cloves from the head, mashed them, and added olive oil, cheese, and pepper to it right at the table. If you love garlic…welcome to your new favorite restaurant. Deciding what to order was difficult, because everything sounded amazing. We decided to take the recommendations from the house: Bacon Alfredo Gnocchi and Medallion Filet Trio. My favorite part of the menu were the wine pairings listed for all of the chophouse items.The Bacon Alfredo Gnocchi is a popular item that features bacon, spinach, sun dried tomatoes, and a house made Alfredo. The result is a colorful pasta that packs a fun combination of flavors. The house made Alfredo had an amazing consistency.Let’s talk about the steak. The filet medallions were perfectly cooked and featured a gorgonzola crust, parmesan crust, and a horseradish crust all drizzled in a red wine demi and served with asparagus and garlic mashed potatoes. These are some of the best medallion filets I’ve had and the portion was huge. Though we didn’t order it, we caught a glimpse of the rib eye, and it was a thing of pure art. Easily shareable, and stunningly displayed.We couldn’t leave without dessert, and the house made tiramisu, served with a generous river of chocolate sauce, was the perfect end cap to our evening. Not at all soggy, they truly had the perfect balance of textures. If you haven’t tried Prime yet, I encourage you to explore this new gem on Rockford’s East side.

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NEIGHBORHOOD GRANTS PROGRAM APPLICATION OPENS FOR 2022 CYCLE: UP TO $25,000 AVAILABLE FOR NEIGHBORHOOD-FOCUSED PROJECTS

NW HomeStart and the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (CFNIL) are accepting applications for the Neighborhood Grants Program until 5 p.m. on Monday, April 4. This program is open to neighborhood-based groups and nonprofit organizations operating in Boone, Ogle, Stephenson, and Winnebago Counties.The Neighborhood Grants Program funds neighborhood-focused and resident-led projects, including but not limited to beautification, crime prevention, surveys, clean ups, newsletters, organizing, reforestation, and resident-focused education. The maximum award from the Neighborhood Grants Program is $2,500. Awards will be announced in April 2022.Applications must be submitted through CFNIL’s online grants application portal by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, April 4, 2022. HomeStart administers the Neighborhood Grants Program, including awarding the grant funds. To learn more about the program, view grant guidelines, and start your application, visit: https://cfnil.org/grants/neighborhood.Last year’s recipients included: African American Resource Center, Comprehensive Community Solutions, Coronado Haskell Neighborhood Association, Greater Freeport Partnership, Northwest Neighbors, Rock Valley College, SecondFirst Church, Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity, Rockford Park District Foundation, Transform Rockford, Village of Poplar Grove.CFNIL has operated a neighborhood grants program since 1995, distributing more than $775,000 to build better neighborhoods in Rockford and beyond. This is the sixth year CFNIL and HomeStart are collaborating to better extend the opportunity to the four-county region.Through this partnership, HomeStart will also offer the opportunity for a team to attend the NeighborWorks Community Leadership Institute this fall. This event is geared toward citizens who are seeking to learn about neighborhood improvement strategies that can be put into practice in their own communities. Visit nwhomestart.org to learn more about the NeighborWorks Community Leadership Institute.About NW HomeStart: HomeStart envisions thriving neighborhoods where everyone has equal access to quality housing opportunities. Serving ten counties in Northern Illinois, HomeStart works in partnership with residents, local elected officials, and business leaders to strengthen communities within the Northern Illinois region. HomeStart is a HUD-approved housing counseling organization and chartered-member of NeighborWorks America, a nationwide network of nearly 245 trained and certified community development organizations at work in nearly 3,000 communities across America. Learn more about HomeStart at nwhomestart.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. Since its founding CFNIL has granted over $77 million for charitable purposes. Learn more about the Community Foundation at cfnil.org.Article courtesy of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois.

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Weekend Roundup: March 11-13

It’s finally Daylight Savings Time, and the weekend! Don’t forget to make your weekend plans and set your reminders to change the clocks. No plans you say? Take a look at what Rockford has to offer.FridayJT’s Sports Cards & Collectibles is hosting a Trade Night. It’s your chance to bring cards you’d like to trade/sell and meet other local collectors.It’s Marvel Trivia Night at The Pottery Lounge. Paint any project you wish, and battle the other teams to be the trivia winner.SaturdayLearn how to make the iconic Sock Monkey with Midway Village! Visitors will sew their own sock monkey with guided instruction, and have the opportunity to attend an hour presentation of the sock monkey doll given by a costumed History Interpreter. If live music is your jam, catch Gary Camaro at Pig Minds Brewing Company. There is no cover and tons of delicious food on the menu.SundayRockford Park District's Carlson Ice Arena invites everyone to enjoy an afternoon of indoor ice skating fun with family or friends while gaining the benefits of recreation and exercise at Rockin’ Rocky’s Family Skate sessions. Ice skate to music under disco lights, and watch for special appearances by facility mascot Rocky the Bear.Find all the details for these events and more: https://rockfordbuzz.com/events

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Bring Spring Into Your Home

Surprise! Winter is back...But we are days away from entering Daylight Savings Time (March 13th, set your reminders!), and just weeks away from the official arrival of the Spring Equinox. Even though the view out our windows is still a little white... let's perk up the indoors with our local businesses!A Little Bird Told Me5466 Bridge St, Roscoe, IL 61073Frosted Farmhouse112 Hawick St, Rockton, IL 61072Hidden Treasures Mall & Antiques6329 N 2nd St, Loves Park, IL 61111Home on Hayloft109 W Main St, Rockton, IL 61072London Avenue Designs214 E State St, Rockford, IL 61104The Midwest Rustic218 E State St, Rockford, IL 61104Porch3065 N Perryville Rd #101, Rockford, IL 61114Primitive 'n Proper8402 N 2nd St, Machesney Park, IL 61115Urban Farmgirl716 N Madison St, Rockford, IL 61107Do you have any local stores to add to the list? Let us know!

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Revamp Your Green Spaces with Local Garden Centers

We have started to feel the temperatures warm-up, and even though we aren’t out of the woods of winter yet… it’s time to think spring! After many months of being indoor cats, you might be ready to revamp your green spaces with some much needed TLC. At a local garden center, every salesperson more than likely has a ton of gardening knowledge, and they're happy to talk mulch and planting timelines with you. (When do you really need to plant those tulips…?)Owners of local garden centers also spend each day with their flowers and shrubs-that means they give them their undivided attention and care. This guarantees they go home with you in their best condition.Check out this list of local garden centers, and develop your green thumb with local experts.Ack Ack Nursery Company5704 E Riverside Blvd.Cherry Valley Garden Center104 Enders Dr.Didier Greenhouses4601 W State St.J Carlson Growers Inc.8938 Newburg Rd.The Landscape Connection4472 S Mulford Rd.Pepper Creek7295 Harrison Ave.Rock Valley Garden Center Inc.785 N Bell School Rd.Village Green Home and Garden6101 E Riverside Blvd.Village Green Nursery2640 N Main St.

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Weekend Roundup: March 4-6

Hey Rockford, welcome to March! Temperatures and spirits are up, as well as the events around our amazing community. Get out and enjoy the first hints of spring. FridayIt is Vintage Shop Hop weekend and it kicks off on Friday. There are many Rockford area locations participating, including Meyer’s Tails Up Farm, Hidden Treasures, Urban Farmgirl, and more. How many places can you get to this weekend?Still want to shop but not down for a road trip? The City Market Indoor Market is Friday 4 pm-8 pm.SaturdayAfter a full day of shopping, you might need to wind down on Saturday. Head to Cattle and Cream for a wine tasting from noon to 3 pm, and leave with an awesome plan for dinner.Love a good podcast? Ghost Freak'n Talk'n team will be at Wolf Hollow streaming their podcast live on YouTube. There will be two spooky segments for you to listen to and even be a part of.SundayHave a child who loves princesses? Check out The Pottery Lounge for the Princess Party! Tickets include: a princess figurine to paint, temporary tattoos, and a meet and greet with Princess Belle.Don’t forget to hit any last-minute Vintage Shop Hop stops you may have missed before the weekend ends!The live music lineup is crazy this weekend, so be sure to get out and support your favorite local music.Find all the details for these events and more: https://rockfordbuzz.com/events

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Did Someone Say Dessert... Pizza?

It’s no secret that pizza holds a special place in our hearts. We go out of our way to find excuses to eat more pizza, so imagine the pure joy we experienced with Woodfire Rockford’s dessert pizza!They have a few varieties, sure to appeal to everyone’s palate. We opted for the S’mores pizza. This delicious concoction comes complete with roasted marshmallows, graham cracker crumbs, and a chocolate drizzle. Basically, everything that makes your campfire dreams come true.Not for the faint of heart, this campy confection is shareable. But, you may want to just keep it for yourself… it’s that good. As the marshmallows melt, this becomes the sticky perfection that we all love about s’mores.It comes out piping hot, just like all of Woodfire’s amazing pizzas. All of their dessert pizzas are available on a gluten-free crust as well.End your meal with a sweet treat next time you stop at Woodfire Pizza.

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Hard Rock Rockford to Host Weekly Jazz Brunch and WINESday Events

It wouldn’t be Hard Rock without LIVE MUSIC. The Rockford Casino – A Hard Rock Opening Act kicked off its weekly Sunday Jazz Brunch and WINESdays, formally known as Wednesday. Both events will be held in Rock River Bar & Grill, the upscale casual restaurant and bar on the east side of the casino located at the corner of Bell School Road and E. State Street. Sunday’s Jazz Brunch will be held weekly from 10 am to 2 pm and will feature live music and a new brunch menu including chicken and waffles, eggs benedict “prosciutto,” breakfast pizza, staples like steak and eggs and avocado toast, and many more culinary delights. Upcoming Sunday Jazz Brunch musical acts will feature:· March 6 – Stateline Jazz Quartet· March 13 – Groove Hotel Quartet· March 20 - Evon Sams Quartet Hard Rock’s mid-week WINESday events will feature our extensive wine list with all bottles half-priced. Plus, you can enjoy our regular menu or sample our new upscale bar menu from 5 to 10 pm and live music from 5 to 8 pm every Wednesday. Upcoming performers for Wednesday WINESday events include:March 2 – Mario Dueñas Electric DuetMarch 9 – Tristan SheedloMarch 16 – Evon Sams Quartet In addition to delicious food and great music at both activities, guests can also enjoy 635 of the newest slots and electronic table games, shop at mini–Rock Shop offering the Hard Rock brand’s signature Rock Shop merchandise and check out the other casino dining option, the Midway Bar – a casual spot with 10 big screen TVs, a full menu and over 20 beers on tap, and now features Happy Hour every weekday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. offering draft beer and appetizer specials. The Rockford Casino – A Hard Rock Opening Act opened a little over three months ago and has already become a destination for tourists and an economic driver for the region. The addition of a weekly Jazz Brunch and WINESday evenings is another step towards the casino becoming a venue for entertainment in the Rockford region.Article courtesy of KMK Media

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Black History Month at Jackson Charter School

Black History Month is wrapping up, but Jackson Charter School isn't stopping there. They have African-American Studies incorporated into their K-5 curriculum. Black history is American history, not just through February.

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Weekend Roundup: February 25-27

Hey Rockford, welcome to last weekend in February! It may be a little chilly, but that’s not stopping the events around town. FridayMiss the theatre? Head over to Rockford University for The Revlon Girl, a play that tells the real-life story of a group of bereaved mothers who met every week above a local hotel to talk, cry, and even laugh without feeling guilty. Busy on Friday? No worries, the show runs all weekend.SaturdayGrab the kiddos and head to the Cherry Valley Public Library for mini-golf and a silent auction in the stacks! Be sure to call and set your tee time in advance.Wolf Hollow is hosting Psychic Readings with the Stateliness Medium. As a spiritual healer, Rebecca uses her tools of clairvoyance, clairsentience, claircognizance, and clairaudience to help you find peace, purpose, and direction.SundayThe IceHogs take the ice to battle the Texas Stars! Cheer them on to victory while enjoying all the awesome food inside the BMO Harris Bank Center.There are so many more exciting events happening this weekend including comedy, live music, maple syrup, and more! So get out there and make your weekend plans something to talk about on Monday morning.Learn more here: https://rockfordbuzz.com/events

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Brunch at Franchesco's

Brunch is back at Franchesco's and we had to taste it for ourselves!Let's dive right into the beverages, because what is brunch without a solid lineup of adult indulgences? Mimosas are the first thing that I associate with brunch and Franchescos has plenty of flavors to suit your taste. Can't pick just one? Order a Mimosa Flight with up to 4 flavors. Besides the flights, they also have Mimosa Towers... 88 ounces of pure brunch bliss. Grab your favorite friends, pick your favorite flavor, and fill up your glass all brunch long. If mimosas aren't your thing, make the bloody mary of your dreams at the Bloody Mary Bar. Franchesco's lays out a spread of meats, cheeses, and other delicious bloody mary accessories.Franchesco's brunch menu is a mix of Fresco favorites and Franchesco's staples. We ordered the Fresco Breakfast, a collection of breakfast favorites: two organic eggs cooked to any style, choice of two slices of apple smoked bacon or two sausage patties, & your choice of 2 pancakes, 2 slices of French toast, or a half waffle. One thing I absolutely love is Franchesco's bacon, and paired with their french toast dusted in powdered sugar... delicious.Next up was an item from the lunch menu, the salmon lettuce wraps. The addition of the lightly spicy bang bang sauce gave these wraps a wonderful kick. I'm always a fan of fresh avocado, and there were generous slices on each wrap. These are a great lighter item for brunch that you do not see on other menus.Add Franchesco's Sunday Brunch to your weekend plans with friends and loved ones.

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Stepping Stones of Rockford Receives Grant from the Rockford Area Arts Council

The Stars of Light, a program of Stepping Stones of Rockford, Inc., is proud to announce that it has received a $2,000.00 grant from the Rockford Area Arts Council to allow the Stars of Light program to host a series of Visiting Artist Workshops that will make it possible for attendees to participate in The Art of Recovery gallery that will be held during the Rockford Area Arts Council’s 2022 Fall ArtScene. The Benefits of the Grant: The Stars of Light will host a series of Visiting Artist Workshops in preparation for The Art of Recovery gallery that will be held at Stepping Stones’ Mildred Kral Rehabilitation Center, 706 North Main Street, Rockford, Illinois 61103 during the Rockford Area Arts Council’s Fall ArtScene in October 2022. Workshop times and dates will be announced at a later time and will be open to individuals with mental illness who would like to participate in the gallery show. The gallery will spotlight the importance of artistic expression in recovery and help reduce the stigma that is still too often attached to mental illness. Susan Schroeder, CEO, LCSW, of Stepping Stones of Rockford, Inc., said about the grant: “It will be our pleasure to host the Stars of Light’s The Art of Recovery gallery this fall. The grant provided by the Rockford Area Arts Council will allow the Stars of Light to provide workshops and other assistance necessary for participants to showcase their art. There is no doubt that without the Art Council’s support, many of these artists would not be able to participate in the gallery. About Stepping Stones of Rockford, Inc.: Stepping Stones of Rockford, Inc. is a private 501 ( c ) ( 3 ) nonprofit social service organization that provides outpatient mental services to children and adolescents with severe emotional disturbances and housing and psychiatric rehabilitation services for adults with mental illnesses. Since beginning as a single halfway house in 1969, Stepping Stones has grown to become northern Illinois’ leading provider of residential programs designed to meet the recovery needs of adults with mental illnesses. About Stars of Light: The Stars of Light is a program of Stepping Stones of Rockford, Inc., whose purpose is to educate the public about mental illness. Since its inception in 1995, the Stars of Light has expanded its focus beyond a theatre troupe to offer individuals with mental illness, their families and friends the opportunity to participate in a variety of artistic forms as a way of furthering their recovery, combating stigma and increasing our area’s understanding of mental health related issues. About the Rockford Area Arts Council: The Rockford Area Arts Council was established in 1969 as a four-county umbrella arts organization. The Arts Council provides Winnebago, Boone, Ogle, and DeKalb Counties with organizational resources, collective advocacy efforts, and critical arts and cultural resources for our communities, with a special focus on our disadvantaged and underserved populations. The Arts Council exists to support, promote, and develop access to the arts for everyone. This goal is achieved by funding artists and arts organizations that oversee programs to under-served communities; supporting arts education and programming; developing collaborative relationships with the City of Rockford, the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, Transform Rockford, R1 Regional Planning Council, Winnebago/Boone/Ogle/DeKalb Counties, and regional school districts; overseeing events that showcase local talent; and advocating for the arts at the local, state, and federal level.Article courtesy of Stepping Stones of Rockford.

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Weekend Roundup: February 18-20

Hey Rockford, welcome to another glorious weekend! Here is a sneak peek of what’s happening around town. FridayShare your words, songs, and stories at 317 Art Collective’s monthly Open Mic, hosted by their Writers Workshop Instructor, Goddess Warrior the Poet.If you are ready for laughter, great entertainment, delicious food, and comedy night cocktails, get your tickets for Screw City Tavern’s comedy night. This event is only available to ticket holders, so be sure to check ticket availability before you go.SaturdayThe Discovery Center is hosting Black Achievers Celebration by highlighting famous as well as local people of color. Activities for kids range from finger painting, digital photography, and catapult building.Wintertime in the Midwest can feel like a battle against the elements, but that’s no reason to stay inside! Come to Atwood and work with your family and friends to make a forest shelter. This event is FREE, but pre-registration is highly recommended.SundayMusic 2 Celebrate; Celebrate 2 Music will be The Music Academy’s way of celebrating Sunday, February 20, 2022 (2/20/22 a palindrome). The celebration will include a free concert to be held at 2:20 p.m. in First Lutheran Church, 225 S. 3rd Avenue.Yoga at the Market series is back! The one-hour yoga class is led by Stacy Morrissey in the Indoor City Market’s beautiful Bowtruss Room. Mat included. Enjoy breakfast or lunch at the food hall before or after!There are so many more exciting events happening this weekend! So get out there and enjoy our amazing city.Learn more here: https://rockfordbuzz.com/events

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Breakfast at Jessica's

It's still National Breakfast Month and we had to venture out to try a local staple, Jessica's.Jessica's is famous for the never-empty cup of coffee. It's only once you start vibrating from the caffeine consumption that you realize you kept sipping on a cup that never ended. It's one of my favorite parts, and amazing on a cold day when you are sharing breakfast with a good friend.The menu is huge! It was hard to pick a couple of dishes to sample. We ordered the Baja Breakfast Tacos and Short Rib Benedict.The flour shell tacos were great, and customizable to whichever breakfast meat you prefer. It comes with your choice of potato, and all the taco appropriate dips. The avocado was perfectly ripe, hard to find during this time of the year. Jessica's creates a mini omelet in the flour tortilla, which makes these tacos mess free and especially easy to reheat and enjoy later.The Short Rib Benedict was divine! What a fun flavor combination. This meal felt like a fancy brunch item with fresh asparagus and heavenly hollandaise sauce. The tender meat melts in your mouth. This is also served with your choice of potatoes. Keep the fancy vibe alive with Jessica's rosemary red potatoes.Next time you are in the Roscoe area, give Jessica's a try!

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The Bridal Experience at Rockton Sanctuary Spa & Salon

It's February and love is in the air! If you are planning your wedding, looking and feeling your best for your day is top of mind. The bridal experience at Rockton Sanctuary Spa & Salon is uniquely special, just for you.As a Bride, you have to be aware of your budget and even more importantly... your time. Rockton Sanctuary Spa & Salon understands what you need, and they deliver. Booking was a breeze. You don't get locked into a package, but instead, get to choose exactly what you do and don't need for your big day. Erica was even helpful in revamping my skincare routine leading up to the big day to make sure I put my best face forward. Happy with your routine? Great! There is never any pressure to change anything. Leading up to the big day, you have the opportunity to trial your hair and make-up as many times as you need. Pair it with a fun night out to really test the durability of your look.Once your day is finally here, you will love your experience! Whether you arrive at the salon, or you have your beauty team meet you at your venue, you will be greeted by an amazing team who truly loves what they do. You get the full VIP experience with your hair and makeup being done at the same time. This unique approach allows you to spend more time enjoying your day, and less time in the chair. Before your team leaves, they will perform any last-minute touch-ups to make sure you are stunning for the festivities ahead.I absolutely loved my wedding day look. My hair and make-up stayed in place all day, through an outdoor ceremony and hours of photography. Erica and her team went the extra mile to make my day special, and they will do the same for you! Every bride gets a fun video to remember the day, and your photographer/videographer is welcome to join you at the salon.Whether you are getting married, planning a fun night out, a family photo shoot, or simply want to experience the care performed by the amazing team at Rockton Sanctuary Spa & Salon, reach out today!https://www.sanctuarysparockton.com/

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Oregon High School Student Recently Participated in Dream - All American Bowl

Oregon High School’s senior linebacker and running back, Daniel Dominquez, was selected as the only participant from Illinois in the 2022 Dream-All American Bowl football game. The game was held January 8th at the AT&T Stadium in Texas.Dominquez was invited to submit films from his past Oregon football seasons and was accepted during this past fall football season. The all-star football game series is held at the regional and national level across the country. Even though Daniel’s team lost its game in Texas, he received the leadership award from his team. He is now evaluating options for playing football after graduation.“This was a once in a lifetime type of experience,” Dominquez said. “I am blessed and honored that I was chosen and appreciate every challenge that I faced while I was there. It made me step up my game even more in just that little period with teammates I’ve never met before.”The all-star game series culminates with the DREAM All-American Bowl Game. The game is sponsored by Recruit Nation and Dream Scouting Network and obtains a national TV audience. Players who participate receive premium uniforms and gear, have the chance to learn from higher-level coaches, and gain a boost in recruitment opportunities.Article courtesy of the Oregon Community Unit School District and KMK Media.

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Weekend Roundup: Valentine's Edition

Hey, Rockford! February is the season of love, and we are here for it. Whether you are in a romantic relationship, want to celebrate how much you love your friends, or want to treat yourself with self-love... the 815 has plenty of ways to spread the love.Here is a sample of the Valentine's Day Love Lineup...Love puppies? Check out Meyer's Pet Care Puppy Play Time on Saturday mornings. Make sure your pup is up to date on any shots, and bring a copy with you to enjoy safe play time. Love orchids? Nicholas Conservatory's Orchid Display is officially open. Check out these amazing florals and enjoy the comfy temps inside the greenhouse. Ready to become a plant parent? Spread the seeds of love!Love your girlfriends? Check out Galentine's events at The Pottery Lounge, Lallygag Boutique, After the Vine, and more!Love buying local? Love on Local kicks off this weekend and continues through the end of the month. Over 20 local stores and restaurants are part of this amazing way to tell your community you love it.If you love the snow and ice, there are plenty of seasonal activities to enjoy! The Ice Hogs hit the arena on Friday, the Carlson Ice Arena has plenty of open skate times, and Rocktown Adventures is hosting a snowshoe hike on Saturday.Of course, there is much love to be paid to our stomachs. If you love to eat, take advantage of special Valentine's menus all over town. Check your favorite restaurant for special menus, deals, and more.Need more information on these events and more? Check out: https://rockfordbuzz.com/eventsFeel the love, Rockford.

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Enjoy National Pizza Day with a Local Slice

February 9th is National Pizza Day, or as we lovingly call it... the best day ever! There is no shortage of places to grab a pie in the 815, so get out there and seize the day!You're an adult now. No one can tell you not to eat pizza for every meal. Go ahead, live your best life. After all, tomorrow is just Thursday (or as we lovingly call it... another day to enjoy pizza).The Local Line-Up:(Please let us know if we missed one!)Anna's PizzaAnna Maria'sCapri RestaurantFather & Son'sFranchesco's Gerry's PizzaGiuseppi'sGreen FireJoe's Casa Di AmiciJohn's RestaurantLino'sLucha CantinaMama Mia'sMark's PizzaNapoli PizzaNunzio'sOpsahl's TavernPietro's PizzaPino's PizzaThe PomodoroRitchie's Smokin BBQSalamone'sSam's RestaurantVinny's PizzaWindsor PizzaWoodfire Brick Oven Pizza

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Weekend Roundup: February 4 - 6

Hey Rockford! Welcome to the weekend! Here is a tiny sneak peek of a few events this weekend. Need more? We get it. Get the details for these events and explore more events here: https://rockfordbuzz.com/eventsFriday is Rockford City Market's Winter Market. Take a stroll through the market to find that perfect Valentine's, or just because gift. Nothing says I love you like a local gift from the heart... of Rockford. (See what we did there?). Plan ahead and buy tickets for the painting party at the Market that night.Friday is also the opening for the new Rockford Art Museum exhibition: Buzz Spector - Reading Matter. On Saturday, check out Valloween at Wolf Hollow! They are welcoming The NewlyDeads and their unique style of loving each other to death! We love the love they put into their art and think you will leave Wolf Hollow with a darkly whimsical and sweet delight for your Beloved that you won't find anywhere else in town.Winter lovers rejoice! Rocktown is hosting Snowshoeing at Klehm Arboretum on Saturday with a fun poker run twist.Sunday is family skate at Carlson Ice Arena. Take the whole family for some chilly fun.See you out there, Rockford.

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Rascals Bar and Grill Food Review

Love live music and delicious wings? Rascals Bar and Grill needs to be on your go-to list. We ventured out on a weekday for lunch and were not disappointed!Let's start with the menu. Rascals has something for everyone, and I do mean everyone. Salads, wraps, wings, burgers, pasta, steaks, and seafood... the list goes on! They even have fry selections for everyone (#team steak fries).Our first item was the French Dip Sandwich with house-cut fries. The beef was tender and juicy, even without the dip! You can dress this sandwich up with cheese, onions, mushrooms, and/or peppers to make it your own.Second, we ordered wings and steak fries. We opted for the hot buffalo and garlic parmesan because variety is the spice of life...right next to salt. Both sauces were amazing, and I especially enjoy the sauce level. I prefer my wings dripping, and Rascals delivered. The steak fries had seasoning salt on them, which is a fun addition.Pair excellent food with great staff and an awesome regular music lineup, and you have a great local hangout to explore.

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Rockford Barbell Received Grant for Youth Weightlifting Program

Rockford Barbell is proud to announce it has received a $13,300 grant for its Youth Weightlifting Program. The grant was awarded by the Dr. Louis & Violet Rubin Fund of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois’ Community Grants Program. Rockford Barbell’s mission is to improve the social and emotional functioning of school-age kids through physical activity and trauma-informed practices. Rockford Barbell’s Youth Weightlifting Program addresses the competencies of social-emotional growth through the sport of weightlifting.Rockford Barbell improves mental health, physical development, and social-emotional outcomes for youth by teaching and modeling principles of mindfulness, focus, communication, self-control, grit, and resilience. Rockford Barbell’s youth weightlifting program helps build resilience by exposing participants to new experiences, demonstrating how a lifestyle of consistent effort can translate into direct success, and by helping children build secure attachments with caring adults. Rockford Barbell was founded in 2019 by a group of educators who personally experienced the need for additional social-emotional support outside of the classroom. Rockford Barbell’s Youth Weightlifting Program is offered year-round to kids aged 10-18 at no cost. It is one of Rockford Barbell’s founding principles to be an accessible option for improving mental health outcomes of youth. You can find out more information about the program or how to register your child at www.rockfordbarbell.com 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 $77 million for charitable purposes. Learn more about CFNIL’s grantmaking and commitment to endowment at cfnil.org.

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Recents

Positive News, Stories, & Rockford Buzz Polls

Page 9 | Positive Stories & Articles | Rockford IL

Dinner at Aero Ale House

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Dinner at Aero Ale House

Article Take Over: Spring Home Maintenance with Giddens Property Service

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Article Take Over: Spring Home Maintenance with Giddens Property Service

Weekend Roundup: March 18-20

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Weekend Roundup: March 18-20

Rockford’s Newest Steakhouse - Prime

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Rockford’s Newest Steakhouse - Prime

NEIGHBORHOOD GRANTS PROGRAM APPLICATION OPENS FOR 2022 CYCLE: UP TO $25,000 AVAILABLE FOR NEIGHBORHOOD-FOCUSED PROJECTS

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NEIGHBORHOOD GRANTS PROGRAM APPLICATION OPENS FOR 2022 CYCLE: UP TO $25,000 AVAILABLE FOR NEIGHBORHOOD-FOCUSED PROJECTS

Weekend Roundup: March 11-13

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Weekend Roundup: March 11-13

Bring Spring Into Your Home

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Bring Spring Into Your Home

Revamp Your Green Spaces with Local Garden Centers

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Revamp Your Green Spaces with Local Garden Centers

Weekend Roundup: March 4-6

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Weekend Roundup: March 4-6

Did Someone Say Dessert... Pizza?

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Did Someone Say Dessert... Pizza?

Hard Rock Rockford to Host Weekly Jazz Brunch and WINESday Events

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Hard Rock Rockford to Host Weekly Jazz Brunch and WINESday Events

Black History Month at Jackson Charter School

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Black History Month at Jackson Charter School

Weekend Roundup: February 25-27

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Weekend Roundup: February 25-27

Brunch at Franchesco's

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Brunch at Franchesco's

Stepping Stones of Rockford Receives Grant from the Rockford Area Arts Council

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Stepping Stones of Rockford Receives Grant from the Rockford Area Arts Council

Weekend Roundup: February 18-20

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Weekend Roundup: February 18-20

Breakfast at Jessica's

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Breakfast at Jessica's

The Bridal Experience at Rockton Sanctuary Spa & Salon

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The Bridal Experience at Rockton Sanctuary Spa & Salon

Oregon High School Student Recently Participated in Dream - All American Bowl

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Oregon High School Student Recently Participated in Dream - All American Bowl

Weekend Roundup: Valentine's Edition

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Weekend Roundup: Valentine's Edition

Enjoy National Pizza Day with a Local Slice

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Enjoy National Pizza Day with a Local Slice

Weekend Roundup: February 4 - 6

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Weekend Roundup: February 4 - 6

Rascals Bar and Grill Food Review

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Rascals Bar and Grill Food Review

Rockford Barbell Received Grant for Youth Weightlifting Program

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Rockford Barbell Received Grant for Youth Weightlifting Program

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