Positive News, Stories, & Rockford Buzz Polls

A popular thing to do in the final week of the year is to try to put the past 12 months into some kind of perspective.You will see plenty of top 10 lists over the next several days. We’re proposing a different question. If you were burying a time capsule what items would you put in it that would tell the person opening it that it came from Rockford in 2024?I can think of three for sure.Hard Rock Casino Poker ChipsAt the end of August, the long-awaited Hard Rock Casino Rockford opened. The 175,000-square-foot venue features nearly 1,300 slot machines, 50 table games, a poker room with six tables, a retail sports book, seven restaurants, and a 1,600-seat Hard Rock Live entertainment venue. Joan Jett and the Blackhearts and country star Brad Paisley were among the first groups to perform in Rockford because of the new venue.Keys to a new houseIn April, the Wall Street Journal listed Rockford as the hottest housing market in the United States in a quarterly ranking. Rockford was the only Illinois city in the top 50. Peoria was next highest at No. 59.In 2023, the local real estate market set records for the highest annual average sale price and the highest average sale price for any month …. And the gains continued for most of 2024.The announcement was a remarkable turnaround for Rockford considering that in 2013 as much of the country was on its way to recovering from the Great Recession Rockford was No. 1 in the country in “underwater mortgages.” Just 11 years ago, Rockford had the highest percentage of homeowners who owed more on their mortgage than what their home was worth.A book from the Rockford Public LibraryWe’d have to buy the book - we wouldn’t want library investigator Joe Bookman to come after us - but something from the Rockford Public Library would have to be in the time capsule. In June, a new 66,000-square-foot, three-story library on the riverfront at 215 N. Wyman St. opened to the public for the first time.The $39 million project took nearly three years to complete.Of course, a time capsule isn’t limited to just three things. What else from 2024 would you put in a Rockford time capsule?

The third annual Blue Christmas service will have a mix of emotions on Dec. 23.The 10 a.m. service at Brooke Road UMC & Community Center, 1404 Brooke Rd., gives families who lost loved ones to opioid overdose a chance to remember and grieve together. This Blue Christmas, though, will also have a message of hope. For the first time in decades, public health data shows that drug overdose deaths are declining. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drug overdose deaths are expected to decline by more than 10% this year.The drop in Winnebago County is even more striking. There were 149 drug overdose deaths in 2023 and there have been just 63 so far this year with two weeks to go. That's a decline of more than 55%.Most experts agree that the widespread distribution of naloxone or Narcan is making a real difference. Narcan is an over-the-counter drug that treats opioid overdose by blocking opioid receptors in the body. It can be administered by injection or as a nasal spray.The Winnebago County Health Department offers free Narcan training and, since October 2022, Rockford has had several vending machines in the city give out free Narcan kits. On average, more than 200 kits are claimed monthly.While it's clear that overdose deaths are declining, it's not clear yet if drug use is falling. Still, it's a small victory worth celebrating.

Much like the actual year that Santa Claus was born - or created - isn't really clear, the year that the fiberglass Santa that sits outside of Ambrose Christmas Store first started waving to Rockford is also unclear.Its original home was Goldblatt's Department Store at 616 Hollister Ave., in the Rockford Plaza Shopping Center, which is now home to the Stockholm Inn, among others. Goldblatt's was a department store chain that started in Chicago and by 1956, when it opened in Rockford, had more than 20 stores across several states.Sometime in the late 1950s, early 1960s, Goldblatt's bought the two-piece fiberglass Santa that it would mount on a roof facing its Charles Street parking lot. Unfortunately, by the time the Santa began appearing annually in Rockford, Goldblatt's was past its peak. Retailers such as Kmart and Sears were cutting into its profits. In 1981, Goldblatt's in Rockford closed when the company declared bankruptcy.That's when the Charles Street Santa became a traveling Santa. William Lidster of Pecatonica went to the liquidation and bought Santa. For the next 16 years, Santa would bounce around. Some years it was put on display at Lidster's business, Advanced Window Systems on Windsor Road in Loves Park, and other times sitting outside the Lidster's home on Illinois Route 70 west of Rockford. Occasionally, the Lidsters would display Santa as part of the Festival of Lights at Sinnissippi Park.In 1997, the Goldblatt's Santa found a permanent home. The Lidsters reached out to Ambrose Christmas Store in Loves Park to see if there was interest and a deal was quickly reached. Now, for many people in Rockford, Loves Park, and Machesney Park, the first real sign of Christmas is when the Ambrose Santa is brought out of storage and put on display.It's a perfect marriage because Ambrose is only slightly younger than Santa. Ambrose opened in 1969 and is on its second generation of family ownership. Once you pull into the parking lot, give Santa a wave and head inside, you find more than 150 Christmas trees on display, specialty and novelty Christmas lights, collectibles, custom-decorated wreaths, and thousands and thousands of ornaments.An annual trip to Ambrose is a family tradition all its own.

On November 4th, 2024, the world celebrated the 102nd anniversary of the first archaeologists to enter King Tutankhamun’s tomb and Rockford native Dr. James Breasted was part of the party.British archaeologists Howard Carter and Lord Carnarvon were the first two to enter King Tut’s tomb in more than 3,000 years, discovering a sealed burial chamber completely intact with a collection of several thousand priceless objects, including the gold coffin containing the mummy of the teenage king.Breasted, who was a nationally renowned archaeologist, was right behind them. He aided in the opening and translated the tomb’s runes.Breasted was born in Rockford in 1865 and went to local schools before graduating from North Central College, earning a master’s degree from Yale and a doctorate from the University of Berlin, where he became the first American to earn a PhD in Egyptology.His academic accomplishments are long, including becoming the first director of the Oriental Institute at the University of Chicago, publishing dozens of articles and several books on archaeology, and being the first to compile a book on Egyptian hieroglyphics.He was so well regarded in his profession that in 1985 the American Historical Association created the James Henry Breasted Prize which is awarded annually to a book in English that covers any period of history prior to 1000 AD. Breasted died in 1935 and is buried at Greenwood Cemetery where his headstone simply has his name and the description “historian and archaeologist.”

It's that time of year when nothing warms the soul quite like a rich, creamy cup of hot chocolate. We're on the hunt for the best hot chocolate in Rockford!Who’s got the most decadent, marshmallow-topped masterpiece in town? Vote for your favorite and let us know where you’re sipping on the ultimate hot chocolate this season!

The City of Rockford this month sent a very strong message - it is investing long-term in the next generation of leaders. This month, the city announced that it would increase its annual $1.5 million commitment to Rockford Promise to $2.1 million going forward helping the non-profit organization expand the number of students it can help go to Rockford University. Rockford Promise is a scholarship program that has been helping Rockford Public Schools graduates with GPAs above 3.0 go to RU, Rock Valley College since 2015, Northern Illinois University since 2021 and, beginning this spring, Saint Anthony College of Nursing. The money is coming from a portion of the proceeds generated by the Hard Rock Casino. Whether you are for or against gambling, there's no denying that the money being generated by the casino for Rockford Promise is life changing for the students and eventually for the city of Rockford. Rockford Promise was born in 2006 after a group of locals learned about the Kalamazoo Promise. In that Michigan city, a group of wealthy families) pooled their resources to create a scholarship program that allowed every single graduate of Kalamazoo Public Schools to go to college in Michigan tuition free. There are now more than 400 Promise programs around the U.S. From 2007 to 2015, Rockford Promise raised money and gave partial scholarships to dozens of students. Feeling that that just wasn't moving the needle enough, the group reorganized to raise money to give students tuition until they got their degrees at Rockford University and Rock Valley College. Rockford Promise restarted small. In 2016-2017, the group started with two RU students and three RVC students. In 2017-2018, that grew to four at RU and 10 at RVC. By 2020-2021, the group was supporting 18 at RU and 61 at RVC. In 2021-2022, Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara kicked the effort into fifth gear by pledging to funnel $1.5 million of casino revenues annually for Rockford Promise students to go to NIU. This year, there are 451 students currently attending college on a Rockford Promise scholarship. About two-thirds of these are first-generation college students who would have been unlikely to have been able to afford college without the help. Already, Rockford Promise has 107 proud graduates to its credit and that list is going to grow rapidly. Two of the 98 students who were part of the first NIU cohort in 2021-2022 have graduated early, the rest are seniors this year. The addition of NIU was game-changing for Rockford Promise, but that choice is not for everyone. The Rockford Promise scholarship does not cover room and board and some students have extensive home responsibilities that make moving to DeKalb or commuting difficult or impossible. The additional money announced by the city this month will vastly increase the number of students who can stay close to home at RU. It's also a way to invest in the city by making sure RU has a steady stream of local students attending. RU has hundreds of local employees who live in Rockford. It's essentially doubling the impact. "Since 2016, we have welcomed Rockford Promise Scholars, who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and academic success, reflected in their 92% graduation rate, RU President Patricia Lynott said in the monthly Rockford Promise email newsletter. "Last year alone, we received over 90 applications from local students eager to pursue their studies at Rockford University through Rockford Promise. We are proud to deepen this relationship and look forward to seeing our community grow stronger through this initiative." It's also a politically savvy move by the mayor. Rockford Promise was founded specifically to help Rockford Public Schools students afford college and to make the district an attraction to families moving to the area or business owners looking to relocate here. College costs are a national concern. If you are trying to decide where to move, a district that has a Promise program that can help your child go to college tuition free is a pretty good recruiting tool. There were some detractors, though, who felt like Rockford Promise should be open to both public and private school students. The mayor listened. The additional $600,000 for Rockford University scholarships will be available to any outstanding high school graduate from the city of Rockford. RockfordBuzz likes to celebrate all things good about the city of Rockford. The city of Rockford helping kids go to college, many of which will return and be the leaders of the next few decades, is about as good as it gets. To learn more about Rockford Promise or to apply for a scholarship, go to https://rockfordpromise.org/apply-scholarship/.

Josh Patterson and the staff at Wired Cafe were pretty excited for the second week of October. Patterson and his partners at Eight Fifteen Capital bought the 13-year-old coffee shop in January, learned the ropes, learned the customers, and wanted to take the next step by roasting their own coffee beans."We'd just gotten the roaster on Friday (Oct. 4)," said Patterson, who owns the cafe along with his brother, Matt Simpson, Terrance Hall, Clydale Hilson and Jaron Hite.Sunday morning, he got a call. Someone had broken into Wired and set three different fires."That day there was just a lot of uncertainty, a lot of just wrapping my head around what happened, why it happened," Patterson said.The next few days were a whirlwind of meeting with representatives of their insurance company. "That helped as far as just addressing, we talk about triage, stopping the bleeding, that helped us in terms of starting to pick up the pieces."Once the group could see a path forward, they wanted to take control of what others were seeing and saying."One of the seven principals of Kwanzaa is kujichagulia, which means self determination in Swahili," Patterson said. Kwanzaa is the annual holiday affirming African family and social values that is celebrated the seven days after Christmas. Kujichagulia emphasizes the right and responsibility to define, name, create for oneself, and speak for oneself."We knew that the longer that we're not open, there's opportunity for our customers to get what they get from us from other places," Patterson said. "There were a lot of questions about what happened and we wanted to stay connected with our Wired Family."Wired worked with Pablo Korona, the filmmaker behind the Our City, Our Story series, to document its path to reopening. The group released videos on Oct. 13 and Nov. 4 on its Facebook and Instagram pages giving its customers an insiders view.Patterson said the videos have been cleansing."It's empowering to tell your own story," he said. "This happened to us, but we control what happens next."Patterson is excited about the next video, which is scheduled to be posted on Nov. 19. It will include Wired Cafe's reopening date."It's going to be sooner rather than later."You can find Wired Cafe at facebook.com/@wiredcaferockford or instagram.com/wiredcaferkfd/.

Der Rathskeller was a North End staple for 90 years. What started out as a sausage shop and delicatessen in 1931 at 1132 Auburn St. eventually evolved to include a bar, restaurant and outdoor beer garden.Beginning in 2016, though, the restaurant went through three ownership changes before closing for good in October, 2021, unable to survive the COVID-19 pandemic.In June, the property sprung back to life as Plume under the direction of husband-wife duo Lia Pennacchi and Chase Williams. The two know the Rockford restaurant scene well. They started working together when Williams was the executive chef at Social Urban Bar & Restaurant in downtown Rockford.For those who remember Der Rathskeller, Plume is a bit of a change. It's much brighter with an upscale decor and pricing. It's also an Italian restaurant - but with a slight twist. The cuisine is northern Italian - the Pennacchis' heritage traces back to northern Italy - and the food has Austrian and German influences. So there's still that little tie to Der Rathskeller.My sister and I stopped in to try it out on Halloween, even sitting next to a couple dressed as a British king and queen. One thing to note. You will not be offered a menu. There are QR codes to scan to find the drink and food menus. They will bring you one if you ask. The goal of Plume is to change the menu regularly as produce is in season without having to routinely print new menus.We split a small plate, the tigelle. That came on a wooden board and included thin biscuits that you slice to make small sandwiches stuffed with mortadella (thin slices of Italian sausage), coppa picante (cured pork), pesto Modenese (a spread made of cured pork fat, garlic and rosemary) and blueberry preserves. For one, that would have been a meal in and of itself.We also split the Eickman's beef tenderloin, which was an 8-oz filet placed on top of potatoes cooked with onions and balsamic vinegar. The steak was so tender it seemed to melt in your mouth and the potatoes were sweet almost like sweet potatoes.We plan on going back to check out the bar and desserts on another day. On the night we went, it had Nutella Pot de Creme (hazelnut butter, chocolate and Frangelico whipped cream) and Tiramasu on the menu.Plume is a welcome addition to the North Main-Auburn corridor that also features the Norwegian at 1402 N. Main St. You should put both on your restaurant rotation.

There will be tens of thousands of kids out on Halloween in Rockford, in the annual quest for some cool candy. On Halloween in 1956, Rockford native and U.S. Navy Admiral George Dufek was hoping not to get too cold.On Oct. 31, 1956, Dufek became the first American to stand at the South Pole. He was one of seven U.S. Navy pilots who landed an airplane for the first time at the bottom of the world. With the engines running to avoid freeze-up, Dufek stepped out onto the frozen terrain and planted the U.S. Flag.The flight was part of Operation Deep Freeze, which had the ultimate goal of establishing a research station on the continent. In 1957, Dufek returned to the South Pole to establish a supply base, which he named Little Rockford.Today, the National Science Foundation's South Pole Station is host to cutting-edge science and home to as many 150 people at a time. Dufek was born in Rockford in 1903. He joined the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) at Rockford High School and was appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy in 1921.Dufek became a pilot and served in World War II and the Korean War, when he was placed in command of the aircraft carrier USS Antietam. Dufek retired from the Navy in 1959 and died in 1977. The Navy stopped using Little Rockford in 1965.

It's October and that means it's time for Spooks! I’m dying to know… what’s your favorite haunted house to visit in the 815?

Tatianna Salisbury, a proud Rockford, Illinois native, has always been driven by her passion for storytelling. Now based in Denver, Colorado, she has blossomed into a powerful voice in the world of creative writing, publishing her debut book, words my heart needed to hear, in June 2023. This remarkable collection of poetry and short stories reflects Tatianna’s emotional journey through love, betrayal, longing, and healing. Her raw, honest writing style has already begun to resonate with readers across the country.A Passion for StorytellingTatianna’s love for writing began early on, but it was during her time at Rockford’s Auburn High School, in the CAPA program, that she truly started to believe in her potential as a writer."I’ve always loved writing," Tatianna shared. "But it was really when I was in the CAPA program at Auburn that I started to think I could make a career out of it. I had some incredible English teachers who pushed me to evolve as a writer."Her teachers’ encouragement ignited a passion that continued to grow throughout her college years. Tatianna pursued her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications at Northern Illinois University, where she honed her skills in journalism and creative writing. She held several positions at the university newspaper, including Editor-In-Chief, and contributed to various online publications and magazines across the U.S.The Journey to DenverIn the fall of 2021, Tatianna moved to Denver, Colorado, to further her career in internal communications. But it wasn’t long before she rekindled her love for creative writing and poetry. Between 2022 and 2023, Tatianna poured her heart into writing and publishing her first book, words my heart needed to hear, a collection that dives deep into the complexities of relationships and self-discovery."Through five chapters, we experience the lifecycle of love through Tatianna’s eyes," the book description reads. "As love sparks, takes, hurts, heals, and lasts, intimate stories from Tatianna’s life are displayed, divulged, and in some cases, dissected."The collection is more than just a series of poems—it’s a heartfelt letter to herself and an offering of comfort and understanding to those navigating their own emotional journeys.Looking to the future, Tatianna is preparing to republish words my heart needed to hear in spring 2025, featuring illustrations by an indie Colorado artist, a reimagined cover, and bonus material that teases her second book. She will be publishing her second book in late 2025.Tatianna’s Advice to Aspiring CreativesAs someone who has successfully pursued a creative career, Tatianna offers two key pieces of advice to anyone following a similar path. First, from her mentor: "Make the time and do the thing." Whether it’s writing for five minutes a day, painting on a small canvas, or volunteering at a theater company, making time for your creative passion is essential.Second, her personal advice is simple but powerful: "Don’t be afraid to love something." Reflecting on her own experiences, Tatianna remembers how she was hesitant to fully embrace her love for writing in school, often holding back for fear of judgment. Her message to younger creatives is clear: pursue your passion unapologetically, and don’t let the fear of judgment stand in your way."The only person’s judgment that matters is your own in terms of anything creative," she adds. "Whether you love writing, geometry, or collecting stamps, don’t be afraid to pursue it."Looking ForwardTatianna Salisbury’s journey is just beginning. Her book, words my heart needed to hear, is a testament to her passion, talent, and dedication to storytelling. As she continues exploring her creative path, both in writing and life, Tatianna is poised to inspire countless others with her courage and authenticity.For readers looking to experience the beauty of Tatianna’s writing, her debut book is available now—and it promises to be just the first of many stories she will share with the world. To follow Tatianna’s creative journey and stay updated on future projects, visit her website at tatiannasalisbury.com and connect with her on social media.

On September 17, 1971, a pivotal moment in television history unfolded as NBC aired the debut episode of McMillan & Wife, a popular police procedural series that captivated audiences across the country. What makes this day even more special for Rockford is its connection to Susan Saint James, one of the show’s leading stars. While Saint James was born in Los Angeles, she spent much of her formative years right here in Rockford, Illinois. Her journey from Rockford to television stardom is a story worth celebrating, particularly on this day in history.A Star is BornSusan Saint James was born Susan Jane Miller on August 14, 1946, in Los Angeles, California. However, fate brought her to Rockford when her father, Charles Daniel Miller, became the president of Testor Corporation, a well-known manufacturer of model kits and paints. Moving to the Midwest, Saint James spent much of her youth in Rockford, attending local schools and soaking in the small-town charm of this northern Illinois city.From an early age, Saint James exhibited a flair for performance. She was involved in local theater productions and showed a passion for acting, which she would later pursue professionally. Despite her upbringing in a quiet Midwestern town, Saint James’ ambitions were anything but small. After graduating high school, she left Rockford to chase her dreams in the entertainment world.Breaking Into HollywoodBy the late 1960s, Saint James had carved out a niche for herself in Hollywood, albeit with modest roles. She appeared in minor TV and film parts, slowly building a résumé that would eventually pave the way for her big break. One of her notable early roles was in the 1968 film Where Angels Go, Trouble Follows, a comedy about nuns. However, it was her work in television that would eventually catapult her to fame.In 1969, Saint James scored a recurring role in the TV series The Name of the Game, where she played the resourceful research assistant Peggy Maxwell. This part was instrumental in showcasing her talent to a broader audience. Saint James earned her first Emmy Award for her role in the series, a sign that her star was on the rise. She was no longer a small-town girl from Rockford – she was on her way to becoming a household name.The Breakthrough: McMillan & WifeIt wasn’t until September 17, 1971, however, that Susan Saint James would truly make her mark on Hollywood history. That night, the first episode of McMillan & Wife aired on NBC, introducing audiences to the charming dynamic between Rock Hudson, who played police commissioner Stewart McMillan, and Saint James, who played his witty and clever wife, Sally McMillan. The show was a blend of mystery, drama, and light-hearted comedy, with the husband-wife duo solving crimes together in San Francisco.While Rock Hudson was already an established star, McMillan & Wife turned Susan Saint James into a bona fide TV sensation. Her portrayal of the stylish, quick-witted Sally McMillan was beloved by audiences, and her chemistry with Hudson was one of the main reasons the show resonated so strongly with viewers. For six years, McMillan & Wife was a fan favorite, airing as part of NBC’s rotating Mystery Movie series, which also included popular shows like Columbo and McCloud.Throughout the run of McMillan & Wife, Saint James’ work did not go unnoticed by critics either. She was twice nominated for Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, as well as receiving a Golden Globe nomination for her performance. Her time on the show established her as a prominent actress in the industry, and by the time the series ended in 1977, Susan Saint James was a household name.Kate & Allie and Pushing Boundaries in TelevisionSaint James’ television career didn’t end with McMillan & Wife. In 1984, she took on another groundbreaking role, this time in the sitcom Kate & Allie, which would go on to become a major hit in the 1980s. Starring alongside Jane Curtin, the show followed two divorced women, Kate (Saint James) and Allie (Curtin), who decide to live together and raise their children under one roof in New York City.At the time, Kate & Allie was considered risky because it centered on two strong, independent women who didn’t rely on men for financial or emotional support. This was a notable departure from many of the TV shows of the era, which often focused on traditional family structures. However, the show’s humor, relatable characters, and heartfelt storylines resonated with viewers, particularly women who saw themselves reflected in the lives of Kate and Allie.Once again, Saint James’ talent shone brightly. She earned three more Emmy Award nominations for her role as Kate McArdle, further cementing her status as a television icon. Kate & Allie ran for six successful seasons until 1989, when the show concluded, and Saint James began to gradually step back from her acting career.A Life Beyond the SpotlightBy the late 1980s, Susan Saint James had become one of television’s most recognizable faces. After Kate & Allie, she consciously began to reduce her presence in Hollywood, opting to focus on her family and personal life. Although she appeared in a few more television projects, including guest roles and TV movies, Saint James largely stepped away from the limelight. Her last on-screen role was in 2011, when she made a special appearance in a TV movie.Throughout her career, Susan Saint James remained grounded, never forgetting her roots in Rockford. In interviews, she frequently spoke about her Midwestern upbringing and how it shaped her work ethic and values. Despite her Hollywood success, there was always a sense that Saint James carried a piece of Rockford with her wherever she went.Susan Saint James: Rockford’s Legacy in HollywoodFor Rockford, the success of Susan Saint James serves as a source of pride. Though she left the city as a young woman, her connection to Rockford has never been forgotten. Her success is a reminder that even from a relatively small city like Rockford, individuals can rise to great heights. Saint James’ career is a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and staying true to one’s values – traits that she no doubt developed during her years in Rockford.In many ways, her story mirrors the values that Rockford as a city embodies: hard work, community spirit, and resilience. It’s not uncommon to hear local residents refer to Susan Saint James as "Rockford’s own," proudly remembering the days when she walked the same streets they do today.A Timeless TalentAs we reflect on September 17, 1971, and the debut of McMillan & Wife, it’s clear that this day in history was a turning point not only for Susan Saint James but for television as a whole. The show’s success paved the way for future police procedural series and showcased the dynamic power of having a strong female lead.Saint James continued to break boundaries throughout her career, particularly with her role in Kate & Allie, where she helped redefine the portrayal of women on television. Her ability to tackle both dramatic and comedic roles with grace and authenticity is what made her a standout star of her generation.Today, Susan Saint James is remembered not just as an actress but as an icon whose contributions to television helped shape the way women were represented on screen. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her fans and in the impact she made on the industry. And for the people of Rockford, she will always be a shining example of what someone from this great city can accomplish.Celebrating Rockford's Contributions to HistoryThe story of Susan Saint James serves as a powerful reminder that Rockford, Illinois has been home to many individuals who have gone on to make significant contributions to the world. As we celebrate this day in Rockford history, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on the other talents, innovators, and leaders who have called this city home.From its rich industrial past to its thriving arts and culture scene today, Rockford continues to be a place where people are encouraged to dream big and pursue their passions. Susan Saint James’ journey from a local Rockford girl to a Hollywood star is just one of many stories that make this city special.As we look to the future, let us remember the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of those who have come before us. By honoring their legacy, we can inspire the next generation of Rockfordians to reach for the stars – just like Susan Saint James did on that unforgettable September 17th, 1971.

Cantina Taco has two locations in the Rockford area to help you celebrate your love for tacos every day of the week. With fresh ingredients and unique flavors, you can't go wrong for lunch or dinner. Find them at 6342 E Riverside Blvd, Loves Park, IL 61111 and 117 S Main St, Rockford, IL 61101.Order at the counter and try not to drool on yourself while they prepare and deliver your order to your table.  We tried the beef birria tacos on corn tortillas, and wow! With a thick layer of cheese between the tortilla and the meat, these are a heavy serving of delicious flavors. Dip your way to birria heaven and just try to keep your hands clean while you enjoy the juicy goodness. Pick your favorite salsa to add if you want to turn up the heat or add some fresh pico.No review of Cantina Taco is complete without trying the Screw City Taco: a fried flour tortilla with your choice of protein, topped with house-made Queso cheese, basmati rice, corn, and sour cream. We opted for the pork and dug in! These are large tacos, with 2 being quite filling. The creamy texture is perfect for cheese and sour cream lovers and the flavor is unique to Cantina Taco! The pork was cooked perfectly, and juicy.  If fancy flavors aren't your speed, enjoy some of Cantina Taco's classic flavors like the ground beef taco. With fresh lettuce, onion, cilantro, and cheese, these classic flavors are customizable to suit everyone's taste and available with many different protein options.  With burritos, bowls, and quesadillas also on the menu, everyone is bound to find something they love at Cantina Taco. See you there, Rockford!

Don't sleep on this awesome summer patio experience! What's better than classic Lino's favorites and a patio the whole family can enjoy? Let the kids run and explore while you enjoy a beverage and your favorite yard games. This Lino's experience is available at 8410 E Riverside Blvd, Loves Park, IL 61111.In case you thought the Riverside Lino's was only for carry-out, we are here to set the record straight. Order your favorites to go but enjoy The Shed, a large covered dining experience with indoor and outdoor seating available. Pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches are available at this location, along with their special salad and gelato!We enjoy special salad to start, and enjoyed the classic flavors that makes Lino's salad a crowd favorite. Served with bread and butter, you get the classic Lino's start to your patio experience.  Next up, gnocchi with meatballs. This hearty pasta dish will fill your stomach and put a smile on your soul. Served hot, the gnocchi has that classic doughy texture that sets this pasta apart. The hand made Lino's meatballs add the perfect amount of protein to this feast.We also had to order the classic mostaccioli with meatballs. You can't go wrong with any of Lino's pastas in their sweet red sauce. Adding some sunshine and patio fun only makes this Lino's experience better.Don't forget to add a scoop of gelato to your meal for that sweet finishing touch in the summer sun.Wines are available by the bottle, and they have a selection of canned beers and seltzers as well. Bring the whole family out for food and fun before the season ends. See you there, Rockford!

Crazy Times Pub & Grub, located at 1520 Glen Forest Dr, Machesney Park, IL 61115, has an awesome patio with covered and open areas to give you the perfect summer dining experience. Thursday is steak night, which is why we think you should keep reading this before you make dinner plans for tomorrow!You have to start with a good old fashioned fried appetizer at a pub, you just have to. So we went with fried mac and cheese bites to appease our inner child. Served with ranch, this dippable classic is exactly what you think it is, mac and cheese fried into triangles. The crispy outer crust and the gooey inside makes you feel young at heart.It was steak night, so we had to order their 14oz ribeye, served with Garlic Texas toast, choice of side salad, cottage cheese or Soup of the Day, choice of baked potato, twice baked, french fries, waffle fries, tots, or onion straws. With all those sides, you won't leave hungry! We ordered the twice baked potato, which did not disappoint. The chives, bacon, and cheese made this potato delicious. The steak was cooked to our preferred temp perfectly, and had an out of this world blend of seasonings on top. It was tender and juicy.Also served with a sweet roll that almost felt like eating dessert, this is a delicious meal that didn't put a huge dent in the wallet. We think it might be steak night more often around here!Head on out to Crazy Times Pub & Grub for good company, a good beverage, and a great steak. See you there, Rockford!

This summer has been a mix of high heat and heavy rains, but the patio at Lucha Cantina can be enjoyable for both! Located at 1641 N Alpine Rd, Rockford, IL 61107, Lucha Cantina's patio offers some covered options to help keep you cool and dry while you dine.It was actively raining during our trip, and we stayed dry and comfy under the covering on the patio!If you have not tried the Yucca Tots yet, you don't know what you're missing! Made with freshly shredded Yucca, a Mexican root vegetable similar to a potato, and served with a side of sriracha mayo, this is a great share for the whole table and fun for adults and kids alike. A crispy outside and a soft inside make these a delicious way to start your meal.Next up, the good old fashioned Cheesesteak Chimi: thinly shaved sirloin along with crimini mushrooms, poblano peppers, bell peppers, onions, and a dash of Ranch Dressing, and smothered in queso. Whether you like it the old way (yes, there's a button for that) or the new way, the Cheesesteak Chimi is a crowd favorite with its cheesy goodness and very generous portions. Lucha Cantina is well known for their fresh ingredients and the fresh flavors really melt together with this delicious entree. Next up, the Rio Grande Bowl: an amazing blend of flavors that starts with poblano rice, chihuahua cheese, spinach, a little red onion, corn, jalapeño, black beans and fresh avocado. Add your favorite protein and this bowl will quickly become your favorite fresh dish on the menu! The crunch of the fresh vegetables truly shines within this dish. You can feel good about this meal, without sacrificing delicious flavors.  Add a side to your order to complete your dish, we highly recommend the fiesta potatoes with black beans and corn. The potatoes are prepared to crispy perfection.Whether the weather is in your favor or not, the patio at Lucha Cantina can be a great go-to for amazing food! See you there, Rockford!

It's time for a new patio, Plume! Located at 1132 Auburn St, Rockford, IL 61103, Plume is a new Italian restaurant that offers unique dishes from the owners' hearts.  We started with Pumpernickel Cavatelli: Smoked beef brisket, quark cheese, cabbage, and Eiger Mountain Emmenthaler. The pumpernickel flavor really shines in the handmade pasta, making this a unique pasta that captivates you from the first bite. The smoked beef brisket with perfectly prepared and generously portioned. Topped with cheese to give you that classic pasta feel and a satisfying crunch coming from the cabbage, each bite of this pasta is full of flavor. Don't sleep on the sauce, the flavor really brings the individual pieces of the dish together with a velvety feel.Next up, the Hot Chicken: Polenta puree, olive oil, braised greens, honey, and chowchow. The sweetness of the honey shines through on this dish beautifully. The huge portions of chicken breast make this a very filling dish. This crispy skin on the chicken was packed with flavor and added a fun texture to the plate. The unique polenta puree and vegetables make this a stand out. The large chicken breast was prepared perfectly, tender and juicy throughout.We couldn't leave without trying the Nutella Pot de Creme: Hazelnut butter, chocolate, and Frangelico whipped cream in a mason jar. This is a great shareable dessert where you will find yourself knocking spoons to get the last bite.Try this new patio this summer and experience new tastes. See you there, Rockford!

It's time for a Rockford patio classic, the Olympic Tavern! Located at 2327 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61103, the Olympic Tavern has been a Rockford staple for 80 years. A large patio with covered and open areas to suit everyone's preferences means you can't go wrong with summer dining.We started with a couple of beverages, one being a fun peach special, No Crying in Baseball, is perfect for summer sipping. It has white sangria with riesling, peach nectar, Stoli Citros vodka, ginger ale, and lemon juice, and peach rings for garnish. With a massive beer and cocktail list, you can enjoy hours of summer sun with your refreshment of choice.Next up, an appetizer! Volcano Shrimp are flour-dusted shrimp tossed in creamy Thai chili sauce, over napa cabbage & jicama slaw. This generous portion of slightly sweet and spicy shrimp is a great shareable for 2 or a light meal for 1. The slaw is a light crunchy salad that compliments the shrimp nicely. The shrimp is tail off and ready to pop in your mouth.We ended with the Prime Rib Sandwich, an 8oz prime rib grilled with provolone, horseradish cream, and onions on a toasted Turano hoagie roll with fries. This beast of a sandwich won't leave you hungry! It requires two hands to support this delicious sandwich, prepared to medium temp and towering with onions and fries on the side. Served with a steak knife to cut as needed, you can easily share this or keep the glory all to yourself. The prime rib was prepared perfectly because this was still a sandwich you could sink your teeth into and eat comfortably.Get out this summer and enjoy a classic patio experience. You can bring your (well behaved) pups on Monday to make it a family affair! See you there, Rockford!

Sometimes you want a fancy feel with your summer patio dining. Franchesco's Ristorante, located at 7128 Spring Creek Rd, Rockford, IL 61107, is serving up summer patio dining with some serious style.  The manicure patio has beautiful landscaping and a fountain to bring your date night that romantic flair, while still enjoying the summer breeze. Part of the patio is covered to offer protection from the sun, or a surprise summer rainfall. Enjoy white table clothe dining under the roof, or a more traditional patio set up in the open air.Do not, I repeat, do not skip the bread basket. You're welcome.  We started with Linguine Charlie: 6 Garlic encrusted Shrimp, tossed with Olive Oil, Garlic, Red Pepper, and Romano Cheese. This seemingly simple dish is loaded with stunning flavor and perfectly prepped shrimp. The garlic shines as the star of this plate and pairs perfectly with the red pepper and olive oil sauce. With perfect al dente linguine, this is a fast favorite.Next up, the classic Chicken Parmesan: Jumbo Chicken Breast pan fried, with Mozzarella and Pomodoro. Served with Penne. Jumbo is no understatement, this chicken breast is a protein motherload that is pan fried to perfection, layered with mozzarella, and dripping in red Pomodoro sauce. This classic is a crowd pleaser that comes to the table in delicious perfection every time. The chicken is juicy, the sauce is generous, and the penne adds that carb balance. This dish transports you to Grandma's kitchen and warms your soul.No matter what you order at Frachesco's, you cannot go wrong. The menu is full of stunning flavors and for the rest of the season you can enjoy them and summer at the same time! See you on the patio, Rockford!

Tour de Patio trucks along as we explored food truck turned brick and mortar Easy Tiger! With garage doors opening up to a spacious patio, pull up a chair, order a delicious meal, and soak up the sun.Easy Tiger opened up with a fun drink menu with plenty of spicy and fruity flavors to give you that tropical island feel. The fresh garnish and spicy rims take these drinks to a new level.After you order a beverage, make sure to explore the food menu! We tried the Pork Nachos and...wow. These piled high nachos have all your favorite toppings and sweet and savory pulled pork. This is a table shareable, or a meal for our nacho fanatics out there. The veggies were fresh, and the pork was tender and delicious. You can add this pork to plenty of options on the menu, and we recommend doing just that. The flavor is one you can't get enough of!Easy Tiger also boasts an Asian flair, so we had to tried the classic fried rice. We opted for shrimp this time, which was cooked to perfection and generously portioned. The fried rice itself is out of this world! The salty sweet medley is different than your average take out and will have you clamoring for the next bite! This is a classic dish with Easy Tiger's signature twist.Add Easy Tiger to your Tour de Patio, and we'll see you there Rockford!

In honor of National Tattoo Day on July 17th, we're celebrating the incredible tattoo artists in our community! 🎉🖤 Whether you have a collection of tattoos or are just a fan of the art, we want to know: which local tattoo parlor is your favorite.Vote for the best local tattoo parlor below!

Tour de Patio continues with Pig Minds Brewing Co., located at 4080 Steele Dr., Machesney Park, IL 61115. With cafe lights and vines decorating the patio, this one is serving up good food with a fun vibe.  You can't go to Pig Minds Brewing Co. and not get a craft beer! Pick your flavor and sip on a hot summer day. Don't forget they have a full bar, so order a margarita or anything your heart desires!We started with a crowd favorite, the Sweet Hot Brussels Sprouts: crispy brussel sprouts in an agave sriracha sauce. Sweet and hot is right, these have the perfect balance of both flavors to make eating your vegetables a fun treat. Marked as a favorite for a reason, this generous portion is enough to share with the whole table, because everyone will want some!Next up, the Hawaiian BBQ Pizza: smokey BBQ sauce topped with caramelized pineapple, smoked maple soy curls, red onion, mozzarella, cheddar cheeze, & smokey bbq drizzle. Handmade to order, the vegan pizzas at Pig Minds Brewing Co. are delicious. The hand tossed crust is fluffy on the inside, and provides a stable base for the toppings above. We believe all pizza toppings are created equal, even pineapple, which added a sweetness to this delicious pizza. #justiceforpineapple We couldn't leave without dessert! We ordered the Special Brownie: a warm chocolate brownie drizzled with chocolate syrup and peanut butter sauce. This vegan treat is served warm and is the perfect shareable size (or not, we never judge). The peanut butter drizzle really made this brownie out of this world.Grab a local craft beer and a special brownie out on the patio this summer at Pig Minds Brewing Co. See you there, Rockford!

If you haven't noticed the theme yet this summer, it's all about patio dining! One of Rockford's favorite dock dining experiences is Tad's on the Rock, located at 10 E Riverside Blvd, Loves Park, IL 61111. Whether you arrive by land or water, you can enjoy beautiful river views and classic summer flavors.We started with the Western Burger, a 1/4 pound patty loaded with onion, cheddar cheese, bacon, and BBQ sauce; served on a buttered and toasted bun with the most perfectly cooked french fries around, or side of your choice. The burger was prepared to medium temperature and the flavors and textures blended perfectly. The crispy bacon made this burger easy to eat.  Next up, the classic Pork Chop Sandwich. With all the classics fixins, this larger-than-bun summer favorite is as fun to eat as it is delicious. All the veggies were fresh, and the patty was crispy fried to perfection. Also served with a side of your choice, we took this opportunity to have even more french fries.  These beauties are fried crispy but soft inside. Never soggy. Tossed in salt prior to hitting your table, these bad boys are worth the trip alone.With regular drink specials, an awesome live music schedule, and river views, you can't go wrong at Tad's on the Rock. See you there, Rockford!

Food is not the highlight of this week's review, instead, it's the outstanding line up at RVC Starlight Theatre!The summer session at Starlight Theatre has begun and we had to check out the first show, Legally Blonde, for ourselves! Returning in August, this is one to see and share with friends.There isn't a bad seat in the house at Starlight Theater. With stadium seating you never have to worry about an obstructed view, and the intimate setting gives you a great view of the stage no matter your seat.Legally Blonde follows Elle, a fashion major turned law student as she pursues love and finds herself along the way. The Director, Clarissa Dahlhauser, has this to say, "This musical asks us to check our initial (often judgemental) perceptions of others, and in the same breath, find our own self-confidence in who we know that we can be despite other's clouded perceptions of us and our capabilities. It's for everyone that's ever felt judged, felt self-conscious in their chosen field or identity, felt pressure to be something they were not, and to anyone that's ever been told, 'you will never make it'."The sets are stunning and detailed, really transporting you to each scene. The highlight of this show was truly the people involved. Elle, played by Chanel Black, was truly inspirational, with a voice that enchanted the whole audience. The Delta Nu girls kept cheering our main character along her journey with fun songs that will keep your toe tapping. Every crew member hit their mark during incredibly tough choreography that left us completely impressed.  If you are a fan of the movie, you'll love this stage rendition which didn't miss a beat. We got Paulette's charming side story and were endeared by the furry cast members.If this show is setting up the rest of the Starlight Theater season, we are in for a summer filled with excellent performances and great entertainment!Don't miss the rest of the season, featuring Guys and Dolls, The Color Purple, Disney's Newsies, and Disney's Beauty and the Beast.See you there, Rockford!