Positive News, Stories, & Rockford Buzz Polls

The Rockford Symphony Orchestra (RSO) in conjunction with Rock Valley College’s Starlight Theatre will present the Star Spangled Spectacular July 3 at 8 PM. The concert will be conducted by the Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra’s Music Director Linc Smelser and will include a variety of patriotic favorites along with the always popular tribute to our community’s Veterans. Also included will be music from the movies Star Trek, Superman and Apollo 13. A highlight of this year’s concert will be Aaron Copland’s Lincoln Portrait featuring State Representative Maurice West who will be narrating this moving work filled with American folk tunes interwoven with narrated passages from some of Abraham Lincoln’s greatest speeches. Food trucks will be available on-site beginning at 6 PM. Tickets are $30 and youth 12 and under $10. Lawn seats are also available for $5 each. Purchase tickets online at rockfordsymphony.com or call the RSO box office at 815-965-0049. The annual Star Spangled Spectacular in the beautiful Starlight Theatre is the perfect way to celebrate Independence Day!

The ’80s are back! Put on your neon, get your hair as big as possible and get ready for a night of creativity and splatter at Pottery Lounge. If you’re not in the mood to paint for yourself then check out Art’s Happening Downtown with 317 Art Collective for a day of art and a music festival or an art exhibit at Nicholas Conservatory. FRIDAYPottery Lounge 80’s Neon canvas Paint Night- Grab a friend or bring a date to our 80's themed Glow Paint Night! The canvas is blank, 11" x 14" canvas. If you want to pre-sketch your canvas, make sure to arrive 15 minutes early to do so.Be among the first to see DELICATE FORCES, the first US exhibition by Skunk Control, a group of engineers, scientists, and science educators from Australia at the Nicholas Conservatory. The exhibition features immersive artworks that bring a sense of the wonder of nature through pieces uniquely created through science. Colorful dichroic materials and subtle mechatronic movements create a kaleidoscope of colors that delight during daylight hours and illuminate in the evening when darkness descends.Angry Birds, Pokemon, Minecraft, and more! Head to the Discovery Center Museum on Friday, June 24 for Angry Birds, Pokémon, Minecraft, and more! Use everyday materials to examine the science and engineering behind your favorite games. Catapults, pinball, Tetris blocks, pixel drawing, Pokémon scavenger hunt, and more will make for a great gaming adventure!SATURDAYPig Minds Brewing Comedy Night is happening on Saturday, June 25th, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. The host Michael Palmenderi is a Rockford native. He's a regular with Fats Productions Presents and has performed all over the Midwest. Get ready for a show appealing to any demographic setting aside cultural differences and finding common ground through laughter.The goal of Art’s Happening Downtown festival is to bring the community together through art and music and to showcase and celebrate talent from our area and abroad. The Location of the festival is the entire 300 block of Market Street, between Madison and 1st, in downtown Rockford. The event will happen rain or shine.A tributary of the Rock River, Turtle Creek winds its way for over 30 miles from Turtle Lake near Delavan, Wisconsin to the Rock River in South Beloit, Illinois. Don't let the word "Creek" fool you! This scenic waterway offers great opportunities for paddling, tubing, fishing, and wildlife.Learn more at https://rockfordbuzz.com/events

Prime Video and the City of Rockford will team up to host a free advance screening of the upcoming Prime Video original series A League of Their Own. The screening is planned as the final event of a weekend celebrating the 30th anniversary of the classic film of the same name, based on the beloved Rockford Peaches women’s professional baseball team. On Saturday, July 2, the Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, will welcome guests for an exclusive sneak peek before the anticipated series debuts on Prime Video on Friday, August 12. “The Peaches are an important part of Rockford’s history, and we are honored that Prime Video has not only created a series based upon the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, but is also hosting the series debut right here in Rockford– weeks before it is available to the public,” says Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara. “I’m excited to watch as the launch of this series, as well as the creation of the International Women’s Baseball Center in Rockford, usher in a new era of AAGPBL fans.” From 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., guests are invited to a pre-screening street fair in front of the historic theater including free ballpark snacks, interactive baseball games like “Throw Like a Girl” Pitching, 1940’s music and cars, a special green carpet photo opportunity, and much more. After the street fair, guests with tickets will enter the historic Coronado Performing Arts Center for a special advance screening of the premiere episode of Prime Video’s A League of Their Own set to begin at 8:00 p.m.Tickets are free to the public and available to claim at: https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/04005CD5EA413939. For more information on the weekend events, please visit @ALeagueOfTheirOwn30 and @GoRockford Facebook. ​About A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN on Prime VideoA League of Their Own evokes the joyful spirit of Penny Marshall's beloved classic, while widening the lens to tell the story of an entire generation of women who dreamed of playing professional baseball, both in and outside of the AAGPBL. The show follows Carson (Abbi Jacobson) and Max (Chanté Adams) and a new ensemble of sharp and hilarious characters as they carve their paths toward the field, along the way finding their teams and themselves.A League of Their Own is from Amazon Studios and Sony Pictures Television in association with Field Trip Productions. The series premieres on Prime Video on August 12, 2022.Follow A League of Their Own on Twitter at https://twitter.com/LeagueOnPrime, Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/leagueonprime/, and use #FindYourTeam to join the conversation! Find an Instagram Baseball Card AR filter here.

Sometimes we make these food reviews a family affair! So, we headed out to Tavern On Clark to enjoy their dog-friendly patio with Remi. We started with the calamari appetizer. Tavern On Clark offers a sweet chili and a marinara sauce, perfect for a house with divided tastes. The calamari is fried and served crisp with a large lemon wedge. The sauces are dished generously, so you do not have to worry about that awkward dip-to-snack ratio error. Our entree came with soup or salad, and of course, we chose the soup... on a 95-degree day, in the sun. We do this for you, Rockford. And because no one wants to read a food review about salad...We had to sample their house specialty, the baked french onion soup. Served in the piping hot bowl it was baked in, this broth-based soup is loaded with onions, bread, and melted cheese. Definitely worth the experience, even on a hot evening.The soup was followed by another Tavern on Clark specialty, the salmon oscar. A generous portion of salmon with crab, shrimp, and hollandaise sauce, served with asparagus and potatoes. This is a fun way to jazz up a few dishes at Tavern on Clark. Just ask to have it oscar style! The salmon was cooked well and the oscar style toppings were generously applied. As usual, some of us get a little too excited for dessert and take a bite before the work is done... resulting in a food review photo of cheesecake with a missing bite. We decided to add caramel to the cheesecake and we were not disappointed! There was plenty of caramel for every bite of dessert.Special shout out to our amazing server Gabbie! She faced the heat to make our dining experience wonderful and brought Remi some ice to munch on. The food and service were spectacular, and we hope you give them a try for your next dining experience!*Also a special shout out to the bravest bird in town who silently stared down a bird dog, within reach, for much of our meal.

Aaron McDaniel, like many of us, was bothered by the lack of positivity coming out of Rockford. Born and raised in Rockford, having graduated from East High School in 2013, Aaron had found his passion in personal training. Always active growing up, Aaron had played football for the E-rabs through high school. However, an injury in his sophomore year is what turned him on to athletic training, and later personal training. His injury wasn’t extreme, but it was painful. JJ, his athletic trainer amongst others, had helped him through his recovery. It was Aaron’s experience with the training staff that led him to pursue his degree in Kinesiology, which he acquired from NIU. Shortly after graduating from NIU, Aaron decided to move to Las Vegas, Nevada. Aaron was looking for something different and the bigger city, along with some family living in the area, is what drew him to Vegas. It was there that he studied and earned his strength and conditioning certification, started his career in personal training, and is currently working at Self Made Training Facility. Aaron would come back to Rockford on occasion to visit family and friends. It was during these trips that he would often be asked for help and advice on matters of health and fitness.  This was the beginning of what’s to come. It was from these experiences that Aaron decided to pour his time and energy into bringing something positive to Rockford.  Aaron will be hosting a one-day fitness event on August 27th. The event will take place at the Northwest Community Center on Johnston Avenue.  Aaron says he’s not trying to be a hometown hero. He just wanted to create an opportunity for people to network and create a community around health and fitness. To help others the same way that people have helped him through his health journey.  The goal for the event is to have 30 - 50 people in attendance and Aaron hopes to bring this type of event to Rockford a few times a year. To learn more about the event and Aaron, or if you have questions regarding fitness and health, you can find him on Instagram at @NLMB.FIT

Old Settlers Days is here! The Rockton Lion's largest event will feature carnival rides for everyone, vendors galore, big-time musical acts, 50/50 raffles, and the beloved beer tent. Also kicking off this weekend, celebrating the longest day of the year is the annual Midsommar festival. Enjoy a day of dancing, music, shopping, and of course the Swedish pancake eating contest. Disaster the musical, guitar phenom Paul Bronson and an ABBA solute round out this weekend full of music. Stop by the Juneteenth Celebration for a whole weekend of activities. Vinyl, vintage shirts, live music, snacks, and killer deals will all be at Culture Shock celebrating 16 years of business!FRIDAY Old Settlers Days- Concerts, vendors, midway rides. The largest fundraiser of the year for Rockton Lions charities. Large musical acts, beer tent, carnival, 50/50 raffle. Parade on Saturday on main st. rockton. Once again we welcome back the “Cadillac of Carnivals,” Skinners Amusements. DRS Skinners’ Amusements Inc. is a family owned and operated carnival, founded in 1910. Their rides are fully insured and state inspected, maintained monthly and checked daily for safety.Welcome back all you DANCING QUEENS! Midsommar Natt returns featuring live music performed by Dancing Queen: ABBA Salute. Join us with your best dance moves and beautiful voices on Friday, June 17th at 6:00 PM.  The Listening Room welcomes Rockford's celebrated guitar phenom Paul Bronson to the stage. The concert is an Inscape Collective production, presented by Rockford Urban Ministries. There is no admission charge. Free-will donations will compensate Paul. On this special day, the Inscape Collective store will be open from 6:00pm on; concertgoers are encouraged to arrive early and see the wonderful merchandise. The store will be open until 9:00pm, so listeners may also shop after the concert.  SATURDAY The 15th Annual Record Store Day Drop Deux & Culture Shock's 16th Anniversary is on Saturday, June 18th and we are pumped to share all of the details and celebrate with you! They will also be hosting some live music in the afternoon from their friend and talented musician Andrew Robinson from Noon-2pm.  Starlight Theater presents…It's 1979, and New York's hottest A-listers are lining up for the opening of a floating casino and discotheque. What begins as a night of boogie fever quickly changes to panic as the ship succumbs to multiple disasters, such as earthquakes, tidal waves, and infernos. As the night turns into day, everyone struggles to survive and, quite possibly, repair the love that they've lost...or at least escape the killer rats. The Rockford Juneteenth Celebration is a celebration for all races commemorating the day the slaves were freed in the south. Featured events include a community cookout, Chautauqua, Juneteenth Queen competition, community church service, all-black graduation, and Sunday's Best competition. Learn more at https://rockfordbuzz.com/events

Greenfire Restaurant has a pretty well-known menu. I’m not sure I can ever remember a visit to Greenfire being in any way disappointing. It’s a solid go-to for an excellent meal, a fabulous glass of wine, and desserts that will knock your socks off.We stuck with a seafood theme for this evening, but please take the time to explore the land options on their menu… you won’t be disappointed!  First up was the Seafood Crepe, a baked crepe with Maine lobster meat, wild mushrooms, shrimp, creamy tomato sauce, and parmesan. I have been a die-hard fan of the Chicken Crepe for many years, so I was excited to try its seafood sister entree. The crepe meals are so unique. You get the sweet flavors from the crepe that are complemented by the savory fillings. The lobster was generously portioned and cooked perfectly. The sauce was a flavorful medley that really complimented the seafood well. These crepes are filling, so come hungry!Next, we tried the Cedar Plank Scottish Salmon, an 8 oz salmon with herb butter and black Hawaiian sea salt, served with citrus rice and farm roasted vegetables. I cannot express my love for this dish enough! The herb butter and sea salt on the salmon is delicious and make this healthier choice feel a little more sinful than it really is. If you are a roasted veggie fan, this is going to be your new go-to location. Greenfire’s medley includes root veggies, squash, broccoli, and more. All roasted to a crunchy tenderness that makes you enjoy your vegetables.We couldn’t go to Greenfire and neglect the dessert menu. Actually, we picked out dessert before our entrees because… priorities. We decided on the Chocolate Ecstasy, because that’s a fabulous name. It’s a molten chocolate cake that is shareable if you are stuffed from dinner, but bigger appetites may want to order their own. The chocolate cake shell comes to your table warm, and when you dive in the delicious melted chocolate floods your plate, making for a perfectly messy and decadent dessert. Served with a petite scoop of vanilla ice cream, this was a wonderful ending to a fabulous meal.

Rockford Art Museum (RAM) opens new art exhibition The Shape of Light: Contemporary Painting and Studio Glass on Friday, June 10th. Members Opening and Gallery Walk with Executive Director/Curator Carrie Johnson happens at 5:15 PM and is open to Rockford Art Museum members. The free public opening happens from 7 to 8:30 PM. RAM is located inside the Riverfront Museum Park building at 711 North Main Street in downtown Rockford, Illinois. The exhibition remains on view through September 25, 2022; galleries are open Thursday through Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM with free general admission thanks to a sponsorship from Studio Wealth Advisory Group–David Boccignone.  Celebrating the International Year of Glass 2022, The Shape of Light explores the relationship between contemporary painting and studio glass. This feature exhibition pairs paintings from Rockford Art Museum’s Permanent Collection and studio glass from Illinois artists and collectors. Also on view are selections from the museum’s studio glass collection. Artists include Jose Chardiet, William Conger, Susanne Doremus, Drew Helge, Richard Hull, Carmen Lozar, Joel Philip Myers and more.The Shape of Light is organized by Rockford Art Museum Curator, Carrie Johnson. Free admission is sponsored by Studio Wealth Advisory Group–David Boccignone. The exhibition and its related educational programming are sponsored by Joan Stonecipher and Studio Wealth Advisory Group and partially supported by a Partners in Excellence Grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency and Women’s Art Board of Rockford Art Museum.

Get your pup ready to party this weekend! Meyer's Tails Up Farm is having a pool party with food trucks and more that is a free event for the whole family! The Norwegian is having an open house party in their Artist Loft with yoga classes, henna tattoos, macrame, and pop-up vintage shops. There are talent shows, live events, famous Chefs to see, and more to check out at other locations. This weekend is going all out for Rockford! Check it out. :)FRIDAYThe Norwegian is hosting their first ever OPEN HOUSE PARTY at their Artist Lofts this Friday, June 10th, 2022 hosted by Moon Lab Rockford, Three Ravens Studio, and Calm Yoga Studio. They're a collective of small, independent businesses, located just above The Norwegian Restaurant. They're planning an evening full of fun events, and art. There will be many fun things happening throughout the day, from family yoga classes in the morning, to live tattooing by Mark Meyer, custom Henna "tattoos" by Mahnoor Henna Design, pop up vintage shops from White Light Mercantile and Winnie Nutter, macrame for sale by Knotty McKnots, new art on the walls by Keelan McMorrow, Inscape Collective and Molly Carter, plus snacks from Mrs. Buckbee's Wake & Bakery and mixology by Kwesi Talavera. This event is FREE to attend -- there is no charge to enter but several of the hosts will be accepting donations for local charities.  SATURDAYYour favorite Outdoor Market is back this year at Hidden Treasures Mall & Antiques. Go browse vendors set up with everything from vintage to handmade to new! This is THE Market to visit this year, and what makes it even better is you can step inside and cool down and shop some more!Enjoy a special evening with CMA and Grammy award-winning country artist, Travis Tritt at the Coronado Performing Arts Center. This show, which will include Tritt’s band, will give attendees an opportunity to hear some of the performer’s biggest hits, including “T-R-O-U-B-L-E,” “It’s A Great Day to Be Alive” and “Best of Intentions.” Plan to sing along with Tritt’s vast catalog of crowd favorites like “Modern Day Bonnie and Clyde” and “Here’s a Quarter" — songs that have created a devoted fan base that continues to sell out shows across the globe. SUNDAYMeyer's Tails Up Farm is hosting a FREE EVENT fun for the whole family! Join them for an afternoon of fun with you and your dog! You can enjoy training demonstrations, a food truck, vendors, shopping, entertainment, and more! Your dog can take a swim in our pool, learn new tricks, enjoy ice cream treats, and more! Bring a pet food donation for Kibble Korner and you can take a spin on our prize wheel! All dogs are welcome, but please secure them on a 6' leash. Fabio Viviani, a nationally acclaimed chef, and entertainer will showcase his culinary skills and wit, onstage on June 12th at Franchesco’s. This event will consist of a 5-course dinner as well as a wine pairing for each course. A classroom-style theme with a camera crew will display and deliver an educational experience, as well as a delicious night out. As Fabio and Executive Chef Juan Lozano prepare their dishes onstage, our team will prepare the same dish for our guests simultaneously. A truly promising evening of fun, food, and laughter!Live At Levings Talent Show and Concerts is presented by the City of Rockford and supported by Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, and grants received from Illinois Arts Council. Live musical performances by Too Deep (playing R&B, funk, and soul), Blkhrt Amir (playing R&B, pop, and soul), and Swad (playing hip hop). Food will be provided by Big & Smallz BBQ.Learn more at https://rockfordbuzz.com/events

Ok, I know it's not Sunday Funday yet...but with rotating weekly specials, outdoor seating, and a HUGE beverage list, every day is a fun day at Ernie's Midtown Pub.We started at the bar and enjoyed our beverages on the patio while waiting for a table. After a long winter, a craft beer and a fruity cocktail in the sunshine were just what we needed. The patio tables are pretty comfy, so give them a try if you like to eat outside!To kick off our meal we started with fried mushrooms and cheese curds. Before I actually dig into to the food, it needs to be noted that you can combine appetizers for only $10. That's right, we got that massive plate of fried mushrooms and cheese curds for only $10. They have larger combinations for bigger crowds/appetites as well. Now, let's talk about the mushrooms. No tiny mushroom caps here. These were huge mushroom steaks sliced, fried, and served piping hot with ranch and Ernie's sauce (a spicy dip if you like things hot). The cheese curds were fabulous as well. The kind where the cheese is actually fresh! By now we were full (seriously, did you see that appetizer?), but we soldiered on... for science. Next was the Nashville Hot Chicken, a simply perfect sandwich, served with waffle fries. Personally, the nostalgia of the waffle fry gets me every time. They bring a smile to my face and Ernie's makes them seasoned, making them even better. The Nashville Hot Chicken is having a moment in 2022 and I am here for it. Ernie's version has a manageable heat, but it's still a hot sauce so orderers beware if you have a sensitive palate. At Ernie's, the meat is the star and that chicken breast was juicy and tender. Make a trip down to Midtown for one of Ernie's specials or regular menu items. You won't be disappointed!

The craft beer community has been growing for years, but have you stopped by our local breweries? With their unique brews and lineup of awards... they are worth letting your taste buds explore.Here is a list of local breweries in the 815!Carlyle Brewing Co.Crazy Llama Brewing CompanyPig Minds Brewing Co.Prairie Street Brewing CompanyUrban Forest Craft Brewing

Are you ready for everything this weekend has to offer you? Outdoor movies, shopping, historical events, a live show, and an Italian market! No matter what you choose to do in Rockford this weekend, make sure to #treatyoself. (Who knows what that hashtag phrase is from?)FRIDAYGlitzy garage sale: Shop this mega-sale with 17 departments, including an air-conditioned boutique featuring designer clothing, jewelry, and accessories. Over 3,000 clothing items for men, women, children, and infants can be found in the spacious Anjali Pavilion. Much more is available at rock-bottom prices in three tents plus the garage! Sunday is BARGAIN SUNDAY with reduced prices all day!Friday Night Flix: Get ready for Summer 2022! Friday Night Flix returns the first Friday of each month in June, July, and August. The series features large-screen movies that the entire family can enjoy on the North Lawn of Davis Park. SATURDAYGirl Scouts over the edge: Over the Edge 4 GSNI is a fundraiser like no other! Participants raise money for the chance of a lifetime – rappelling more than 100 feet from the historic SupplyCore building in downtown Rockford!Midway Village: The Celebration of Innovation is a unique Living History Theme Weekend in the Victorian Village, and will take place on June 4-5 from 10 am - 4 pm. Our costumed interpreters will show how technology changed life in Rockford from 1860 - 1920.Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood LIVE! "Won't you ride along with me?" Daniel Tiger and all his friends from the beloved Emmy Award-winning PBS KIDS television series are hopping back aboard the Trolley for DANIEL TIGER'S NEIGHBORHOOD LIVE! Mills Entertainment is pleased to bring you this theatrical production with enhanced safety protocols in place. Italian Market: Lino’s Pasqua Mercato is a seasonal, open-air Italian Market dedicated to the idea of family. The market is a weekly home for families to celebrate, as most do, around the food they eat while supporting their larger family: the community, local farmers, vendors, and organizations. Find all the details for these events and more: https://rockfordbuzz.com/events

The Rockford area is rich in dining culture. You can travel the world by strolling through some of Rockford’s popular dining districts. For this flight-free dining experience, we had a classic from Sister’s Thai Cafe.We can never order just one thing, so of course, we started with an appetizer. Who doesn’t love a sampler platter? At Sister’s Thai, the platter comes with their grilled chicken satay, Thai spring rolls, shrimp rolls, and crab rangoons, along with their house peanut sauce and sweet & sour sauce. Everything was delicious! Grilled chicken satay and crab rangoons are usually my run away favorites… so it was perfect to find a platter with my favorites and a few new items to try. If you are a fan of shrimp, definitely try the shrimp rolls! This was a first time try for me, and I will absolutely be ordering this platter again… because I can no longer decide which item I can’t live without during my next visit.Now on to the main course, Pad Thai: stir fried thin rice noodles with ground peanuts, green onions, bean sprouts & eggs in their delicious homemade sauce. You can choose to add of beef, chicken, shrimp, tofu, pork or veggies to your Pad Thai as well. This Thai classic is perfect for beginners just starting to test their international palate, but also a beloved dish by all. The mild flavors with the homemade peanut sauce really blend together nicely. Rice noodles can be tricky, but the team at Sister’s Thai cook them perfectly. No overly sticky, or mushy noodles here! Love Pad Thai but want a kick? Ask them to make it spicy!If you prefer an even more authentic dish, check out their curries, Nam Now, and Larb Kai. The Lab Kai is on my list for our next trip to Sister’s Thai Cafe!

This month, we want to know...Where do you get your local pizza? Who makes your favorite pie? Who has the best dough, the best sauce, and the best bake?There is no shortage of places to grab a pie in the 815, so vote for your favorite today!

Summer Reading Challenges for children, teens, and adults are being offered through Rockford Public Library [RPL]! The Library is challenging everyone to read 500 minutes each month for June, July, and August, track their progress, and win prizes! Studies show that children who read and use the Library throughout the summer experience less learning loss over the summer. With school-age kids making up for lost time in the classroom this past year, it is more important than ever they engage this summer by joining our Summer Reading Challenge.The 2022 Summer Reading Challenge, whose theme is Travel Through Time, will run from June 4th through August 20th. To join now, visit their website: www.RockfordPublicLibrary.org or on the Rockford Public Library app. RPL will host a fun-filled Summer Reading Challenge Kick-off Party on Saturday June 4th from 10AM to 1PM in the parking lot of the Riverfront Museum Park at 711 N. Main Street in Rockford. Register for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge then enjoy crafts and games! RPL’s Mobile Library will be onsite along with the Discovery Center’s Mobile Maker Space providing unique, interactive programming, designed to energize youth and families. Refreshments will be available through the Anjan Food Truck. Shop the HUGE Friends of the Rockford Public Library Used Book Sale, taking place in Kresge Hall, inside the Museum Campus building from 9AM to 4PM on June 4th, 2022. The first 800 kids to register will receive a limited edition “Travel Through Time” SRC 2022 t-shirt. Check www.rockfordpubliclibrary.org for more details on the classes and events planned in conjunction with Summer Reading Challenge 2022. “Research shows that summer reading programs like RPL’s Summer Reading Challenge 2022 can help children minimize and even overcome the lapse in literary progress that regularly occurs during breaks from school being in session,” explains RPL Youth Services Librarian, Amy Pfeifer. “Because this year, kids in Rockford have worked to make up for so much lost time due to the pandemic, we believe it is more important than ever that they participate in this fun and engaging reading program.”

Do you have an urge to leave city life and live in the country to work with your hands and create your own cutting boards, soap, and care for baby goats? THIS IS THE WEEKEND FOR YOU! If you're not into that, there are other fun options too. :)FridayGet yourself to Rockford City Market today at 4 P.M. With 70+ local vendors with fresh produce, baked goods, handmade items, jewelry, cheese, honey, and more underneath the pavilion in the heart of downtown Rockford.Saturday Kick your Saturday off the right way by learning how to be self-sufficient and make your own custom soap that suits you and your body at 11 A.M. at Gretta's Goats in Pecatonica. While you're learning, you can snuggle some baby goats and meet the other animals on the farm.The Rockford Speedway is hosting its 5th Annual Cruise and Car Show at 8 A.M. - 4 P.M. If you've got the automotive blood pumping through your veins and have a need for speed then this show is a can't-miss.Pig Minds Brewing Co. is hosting Shannon Marie at 6 P.M. to tantalize your ears while you dine on some of their amazingly good eats.The Pottery Lounge is ready to teach you to pour your own epoxy to make a custom charcuterie board or lazy susan to display in your home with pride and beauty. Head over there at 7 P.M. to get situated with your friends for a night of creativity!Finish your powerhouse Saturday off at 5Bar at 10 P.M. to enjoy listening to Stalley Cats with a cold drink in your hand and surrounded by good company.Find all the details for these events and more: https://rockfordbuzz.com/events

We traveled to Cherry Valley to enjoy the delicious menu at Salamone’s! With so many items to choose from, we decided to go with a three-course steak dinner.Appetizers are the best way to start any meal, so we opened with the stuffed mushrooms: mushroom caps stuffed with their homemade spinach filling, topped with breadcrumbs, and served in wine chicken broth. Served with a lemon wedge, this is a generous appetizer perfect for 2 people to split. The flavors are lighter, which truly lets the mushroom flavor shine. The melted cheese on top seals in the juices. Definitely a tasty start!Next was the Trio Jack Medallions topped with a sweet and tangy jack sauce. Medallions are great, you can usually add a crust to them and they stay tender. The jack sauce was unique and gave the steak a sweet flare. They include extra on the side for your dipping whims. We decided to make it a surf and turf with their grilled shrimp. They were seasoned and cooked perfectly and paired with lemon and cocktail sauce. The garlic mashed potatoes were terrific. A generous serving of garlic-filled goodness. You won’t even miss the gravy.If you’ve heard reviews of Salamone’s before, you’ve heard about their Cannoli Cake. It’s homemade and magical. The cake is light and moist, with delicious cannoli-inspired frosting. Mini chocolate chips and a light chocolate drizzle tie it all together. We highly recommend saving room for this dessert during your next trip to Salamone’s!We look forward to going back and digging into their pasta menu!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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