Positive News, Stories, & Rockford Buzz Polls

Carlyle Brewing Co. at 215 E State St, Rockford, IL 61104 is a staple in Rockford's downtown. They may have changed owners, but this classic bar is standing the test of time. Keep reading to hear about our experience!Carlyle is a great stop for beer enthusiasts but did you know they also stock half bottles of wine? They have all the classics on hand, so whether you are a beer fan or a wine fan, Carlyle Brewing Co. has you covered.They also have a selection of bar classics like chips and queso to huge head-sized soft pretzels. You can't go wrong with salty snacks when you are drinking locally crafted beers.Of course, they have pizza as well to keep you full. Their thin-crust pizzas are cooked edge to edge for maximum pizza experience. You have the freedom to make your own and customize your perfect pizza to make your experience uniquely yours. With lots of sauce, lots of cheese, and lots of toppings, this pizza is perfection. The pizzas are the perfect size for two to three to share as you enjoy the ambiance of this local gem. Next time you are looking for great local beer and pizza, take the trip downtown to enjoy Carlyle Brewing Co. Maybe take home your favorite beer in a growler or cans to enjoy at home later. See you there, Rockford!

You probably drive by it more than you think, but have you stopped into Pho 27 at 298 N Mulford Rd, Rockford, IL 61107? This local restaurant has traditional dishes made from love and family recipes. Keep reading to hear about our visit!First of all, shout out to the amazing service at Pho 27. Our experience with the food was stellar, but the awesome service made it even better.  We started with crab rangoon, and these are huge! A great shareable to kick off your meal that arrives piping hot and with a generous serving of sweet and sour for your dipping pleasure. These have a savory filling that pairs perfectly with the sauce.Next up, we tried the Specialty Fried Rice: stir-fried white rice with homemade sweet sausage, BBQ pork, shrimp, egg, carrots, green beans, peas, corn, cilantro, scallions, and green and red bell peppers. This dish was packed with protein and a heaping serving that could satisfy a big appetite. The veggies were fresh and cooked perfectly to maintain their crisp. The flavors all worked so well together and the meats were delicious. This one is a fan favorite and we understand why!Upon recommendation, we tried the Laotian Heaven Beef: Laotian street style beef jerky, served with sticky rice. Our wonderful server told us this was a dish that keeps people coming back, and we believe it! The beef has a crispy jerky texture but the flavors just pop! Served with a house made sauce that has a mild heat, this is the perfect dish for mild spice fans who want to expand their palate in an interesting way. The sticky rice is served in a basket and has that fun sticky texture. The flavor is almost sweet for the beef, making this an easy dish for everyone to enjoy.We also ordered a side of noodles, which came in a heaping bowl that could have probably been a meal of it's own. We love a restaurant with large portions and that is certainly what you'll get at Pho 27. Stop on in for pho or any of their delicious dishes. See you there, Rockford!

New restaurants are popping up all over town, and we were excited to try El Vallarta Sports Bar and Grill at 7140 Harrison Ave, Rockford, IL, 61112. They specialize in seafood with a touch of Nayarit-style Mexican flair, and we couldn't wait to dig in.It wouldn't be a Mexican restaurant without chips and salsa, and at El Vallarta Sports Bar and Grill you will get chips and a ceviche style salsa! Their green salsa is hot and pairs perfectly with the ceviche, if you like heat. Their huge menu has all the appetizer favorites like guacamole as well.Seafood is the name of game here, so we had to try a couple seafood dishes. If seafood isn't the mood of everyone in your group, they also serve chicken and beef classics like fajitas and more. We dove right in to the Pina Rellena al Gusto, a pineapple stuffed with a seafood mix (shrimp, octopus, scallops, crab, and more), red and yellow peppers, mushrooms and a creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with melted cheese. Served with salad, rice, and garlic bread, you are not leaving hungry! The pineapple offers a sweetness to this dish, and the savory mushroom sauce lets the flavors of the seafood shine through. Piled high, this was a fun and filling presentation that was delicious and perfect for a mild palate.Next up was the Chapuzon Dinner: shrimp, octopus, and oysters in a Nayarit sauce. This dinner also came with salad, rice, and garlic bread, and packed a spicy punch that was a delightful slow burn. The seafood consistency was spot on, which can be tricky when you're working with a mix such as this. The sauce is house made and you can taste all the delicious spices and seasonings. It is labeled on the menu as hot, and they are not kidding! But if you like spice, this is a knock out dish that you'll come back for.Whether you want that sports bar feel or a dining room experience, El Vallarta Sports Bar and Grill is a great place to step out of the ordinary into unique flavors. See you there, Rockford!

We love seeing locally owned media companies succeed! So when we learned about the 2024 Soar Awards, we had to share it! Check out the press release below for all the news and details. 🤩Soar Radio, Award-winning online radio station, is excited to reveal the upcoming seventh annual Soar Awards television taping. The star-studded event is scheduled for Monday, March 4, 2024, at 7 PM at The Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main Street, Rockford, IL. This celebration of gospel excellence has secured a major national television partner, to be announced and aired inthe second quarter of 2024.Multi-award-winning recording artist Todd Dulaney is set to take the stage as the host, adding his charismatic presence to an already dazzling program that will feature performances honoring pioneers from all genres of gospel music.Marvin Sapp to Receive Soar Icon Award:Artist Marvin Sapp, a celebrated name in the gospel genre and a multiplatinum-selling artist, will be honored with the Soar Icon Honor. With 13 Grammy nominations, 24 Stellar Awards, 2 Soul Train Music Awards, 2 BET Awards, 4 Dove Awards, and numerous other accolades, Sapp has left an indelible mark on the industry.Ricky Dillard to Receive Soar Award Legend Award:Known as "The Choir Master, " Ricky Dillard has been a force in gospel music since his debut recording in 1990. A multiple Grammy and Dove Award nominee, Dillard has ensured the enduring presence of gospel choir music in the industry. He will receive theSoar Award Legend Honor.Kim Burrell to Receive Soar Industry Impact Award:Singer Kim Burrell, recognized for her powerful voice and widespread influence, will be honored with the Industry Impact Honor. With notable collaborations with mainstream secular artists, Burrell has left an indelible mark on the industry. Travis Greene to Receive Soar Luminary Award Artist/Pastor Travis Greene, a Grammy-nominated gospel singer, songwriter, and pastor, will receive the Soar Luminary Honor. His international sensation and chart-topping hits have solidified his place in the gospel music landscape.The evening will feature dynamic performances and appearances by a lineup that includes Jekalyn Carr, Mali Music, Lena Byrd Miles, Brian Courtney Wilson, Anita Wilson, Gene Moore, Maranda Curtis, Todd Galberth, and more. Phillip Feaster, renowned for his work with Fred Hammond and VaShawn Mitchell, will serve as the music director.Tickets for this extraordinary event are available at Ticketmaster.com or BMO Harris Center's Box Office. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of the 2024 SOAR Awards celebration.

Ritchie's Smokin' BBQ at 7828 N 2nd St, Machesney Park, IL 61115 has new owners and the same amazing BBQ. We stopped by to fulfill our BBQ dreams.Ritchie's Smokin' BBQ offers carry-out and dine-in, with outdoor seating in the warmer months as well. We dined in and started with the BBQ brisket pizza! You can add their mac and cheese to the pizza now, making this a meal for the whole family. Drizzled with their bbq sauce, this cheesy and saucey pie is loaded with flavor on a hand-tossed crust. You can also get the pizza in a 7" personal size for an individual appetite. Not a brisket fan? Swap out the meat to your favorite and make it your own!Next up was the classic two-meat dinner. We went with pulled pork and brisket for this meal and selected the mac and cheese and baked beans for our sides. The baked beans are delicious and have the perfect thick consistency, making it easy to grab and go. Ritchie's Smokin' BBQ's mac and cheese is a rich and creamy cheese sauce on an oversized macaroni noodle, making an awesome pairing. Drizzled with BBQ sauce, this dinner will satisfy your cravings and carry you through your day. You can swap the sides for any that you prefer, and with classic options like coleslaw and more, you can't go wrong.Whether you are grabbing lunch or dinner on the go, or have the time to sit and enjoy, make Ritchie's Smokin BBQ a stop on your list. With award winning BBQ and pizza that will please the whole crew, you can't go wrong with Ritchie's Smokin BBQ. See you there, Rockford!

If you know, you know. If you don't know, you need to know The Great Wall on 4228 E State St, Rockford, IL 61108!  We headed to The Great Wall for a cozy dinner at a Rockford classic. They have an extensive menu, making this a great option for groups with a variety of tastes. We were seated immediately and decided to try the Tang Dynasty Dinner for 2.The Tang Dynasty Dinner opens with Sizzling Rice Soup: chicken broth blended with meat and vegetables, and topped with morsels of fried golden rice. This soup has a mild, but delicious flavor that warms your core during these cold winter months. You get two cups and a refill bowl, because they know you are going to want more. Next up is their appetizer platter, the Confucious Concoction: Crab rangoon, Egg Roll, Shrimp Toast, Fried Wonton, BBQ Spare Ribs, and Beef Kabob. Talk about variety! This platter has three dipping sauces: sweet and sour, spicy mustard, and soy sauce. Everything is absolutely delicious. The kabobs are a crowd-pleaser and the BBQ spare ribs are tender. This is one of everything for each, just enough to give you the platter experience without filling you up too much before the entrees.The main courses are Sweet and Sour Shrimp and Mongolian Beef. Fried shrimp with fresh grilled onions, green peppers, and pineapple are glazed with sweet and sour sauce for a sweet treat. The Mongolian Beef has a savory flavor with green onions. These pair incredibly well together for an amazing shared meal. The meat was tender, and the large shrimp kept its crisp texture. Served with white rice, you won't leave the table hungry!With outstanding service, delicious food, and a full bar, you can't go wrong at The Great Wall for a fun dinner out with your friends and family. Enjoy the inviting atmosphere. We'll see you there, Rockford! 

It's the New Year and that means a lot of people are getting serious about their fitness. That means a lot of our local neighbors are going to be looking for a gym. We want to hear from you on your favorite gym in the 815! Cast your vote below and engage with us on Social Media for a chance to win a gift card to the gym of your choice!

We visited Chavez Mexican Restaurant at 5494 E State St, Rockford, IL 61108 for dinner with the family. With outstanding service, a menu with plenty of delicious options, and a cozy fireplace in the middle of the dining room, it's the perfect stop for lunch or dinner during your busy holiday schedule.First of all, chips and salsa fans rejoice because they keep it coming! And with homemade guacamole, just the way you like it, you can eat chips to your heart's desire. If you still have room for your entree, Chavez Mexican Restaurant has amazing authentic and family-friendly options.We started with the classic crowd-pleaser, Fajitas. We ordered the chicken and beef combination and added the melted chihuahua cheese. The flavors of the chicken and beef were amazing, as well as being very tender and juicy. The vegetables were fresh and still had a delicate crisp to them. A fun highlight is that it comes to your table with a small fire under the dish that keeps your fajitas warm and sizzling. This small detail really stood out and made a classic dish feel unique again.Flautas came next, and they lived up to all of our expectations! Stuffed with shredded beef, these are fried and delicious. Layered with all the toppings including guacamole, this is a simple but amazing dish that is fun to eat. The house-made sauce brings these to the next level.They have a kids menu, which is always appreciated, and our small tried the ground beef enchilada with rice and beans. He thought it was "pretty outstanding". With that 5-star review, you can't go wrong.Next time you are driving down East State Street, pop into Chavez Mexican Restaurant for an amazing meal. See you there, Rockford!

For 59 years, Rockford Rescue Mission has provided a Christmas Banquet. This year’s free banquet is at noon on Friday, Dec. 22, at the Mission, 715 W. State St.“The hope of Christmas means everything at the Mission,” said Sherry Pitney, Rockford Rescue Mission CEO. “Especially during the Christmas season, we look forward to celebrating the reason we do what we do.”“We want to thank the many community volunteers who will prepare and serve the Banquet this year,” Pitney said. “An event of this size would not be possible without them.” This year’s volunteers include Sheriff Gary Caruana, amongst many other men, women and children.The media is invited to arrive at the Mission at 11:45 a.m. for a time of interviews with staff and residents. The banquet area will then be available for filming footage at 12:00 p.m.

The holidays are upon us. Soon children will be off school and grownups everywhere will be looking for opportunities for family fun. Whether you’re going stir crazy, or looking to make some memories, Discovery Center has some terrific events planned. Winter WonderlandDecember 22-23 and 26-Jan. 2Enjoy winter adventures without the cold! Test your skating skills at Discovery Center’s indoor Sock Skating Rink! No ice, no shoes, just slip-sliding fun with friends on this high-tech surface. After a few spins around the rink, enjoy creating winter crafts. These activities will be offered daily between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm.Included with museum admission; $10 Public; free to Members and children ages 1 and younger. Countdown to FunDecember 3110:00 am - 3:00 pmDon’t want the children staying up ‘til midnight? Discovery Center’s got you covered! It’s midnight – somewhere, and Discovery Center has all the fun and excitement of midnight with countdowns and Times Square–style ball and confetti drops at 10:00 am, 11:00 am, 12, 1, 2, and 3:00 pm. Fabricate a party hat, create a noisemaker, and take a spin on our sock skating rink. Don’t miss this family tradition as you ring in the New Year early with the youngsters!Included with museum admission; $10 Public; free to Members and children ages 1 and younger. Special Holiday Hours:Closed December 24 and 25Open December 31 and January 1 from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm

From the North Pole to Northwest; Northwest Community Center is proud to host a Breakfast with Santa to the Rockford community. This event is free for all and will feature breakfast, free haircuts for children, activities, and a photo with Santa Claus.Please join us Saturday, December 16, 2023 from 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at 1325 N. Johnston Ave. and take part in this fun event which is presented in partnership with Molina Healthcare, Awaken Foundation,  Fine Mindz Inc., La Jefa’s Multicultural Barber Shop, Rockford Public Library, Aetna Better Health of Illinois, Kendel Sherman Foundation, Rock Valley College, and Midland States Bank.Additionally, Northwest Community Center has turned 75! Northwest has proudly served the residents of Rockford for 75 years and is celebrating its diamond anniversary 2023-2024.For more information about Northwest Community Center, visit www.northwestrockford.org.

There is a new brunch spot in town and it deserves a spot on your regular rotation! Octane has introduced their new Filipino style brunch, and you have to try it. From sweet to savory, the new menu has something everyone will enjoy.  Let's start with the Pan de Sal & Gravy: a pan de sal roll, longganissa sausage gravy, pan de sal bacon, 2 fried eggs, and house fries. If you have never had this filipino inspired biscuits and gravy, you are in for a treat! The pan de sal roll is a Filipino breakfast staple that is airy, sweet, and shines as part of this dish. The sausage is made in-house and added to the most amazing gravy. This savory sauce is not only beautiful but delicious. The flavor is out of this world. Topped with two over-easy eggs and served with bacon and fries, you might just fall in love with this dish... we sure did.Next up was the Cornsilog: corned beef, garlic rice, 2 fried eggs, and fried hashbrowns. Meat lovers rejoice! The corned beef was piled high on a plate of Octane's delicious garlic rice. The corned beef is locally sourced and prepared perfectly. The over-easy eggs added a delicious golden sauce to the rice, and the fried hashbrowns added a delicate crunch to each bite. This savory dish was amazing and filling. Octane brings a bottle of house made garlic aioli to your table and we highly recommend adding it to your meal. It was absolutely delicious.Last, but absolutely not least, we tried the hot cakes! These fluffy silver dollar sized sweet cakes knocked it out of the park. The vanilla flavor made these stand out. If you prefer a sweet treat for breakfast, this is absolutely the way to go. Served with sausage or bacon, this is the perfect breakfast for those of us with a sweet tooth. But seriously... they're so fluffy!!You love Octane for dinner, and now you can love them for brunch too! Grab your friends and family and head to Octane for brunch every Saturday. See you there, Rockford!

It's another walk down Memory Lane as AET celebrates our 20th season with scenes, stories, and songs from past holiday shows. This is a pay-what-you-can event. No tickets, no reservations, just a donation jar. There are just two performances of Holiday Havoc — 7:30 Fri. Dec. 15 and 4:00 Sat. Dec. 16 This is a pay-what-you-can performance, so no tickets to buy and no reservations to make. We do recommend coming early to get a seat. The cast includes Tim Anderson, Patte Armato-Lund, John Chase, Ian Garthwaite, David A. Gingerich, Margaret & Richard Raether, Lisa Turbyville, and Gary Wingert. David A, Gingerich AE Holiday Havoc will be performed 7:30 Fri. Dec. 15 and 4:00 Sat. Dec. 16 in the Cheek Theatre in the Clark Arts Center at Rockford University. There are no tickets to purchase. This is a pay-what-you-canperformance. For more information call the AE box office 815-394-5004. Holiday Havoc is family friendly, recommended for age 10 and up. Artists’ Ensemble is the state line area’s resident professional theater performing in residence at Rockford University.

Discovery Center Museum announced Executive Director Sarah Wolf will retire at the end of January 2024 after leading the museum for 43 years. Wolf was one of the founders of the children’s museum and is its first and only executive director.Sarah Wolf led the museum through many changes and substantial growth, from humble beginnings in the old Rockford Post Office to a nationally recognized children’s museum. Publications like USA Today, Forbes, Child Magazine, Family Vacation Critic, Family Fun Magazine and Reader’s Digest have all listed Discovery Center as one of the top children’s museums in the nation."Sarah has been an outstanding leader and a tireless advocate for informal education and the importance of play in the Rockford Region," said James DiVerde, Chair of Discovery Center’s Board of Directors. "For more than 40 years, her vision and dedication to providing educational opportunities for children has touched the lives of countless people and transformed Discovery Center from an improbable endeavor into a nationally recognized museum beloved by children, parents, grandparents, and educators,” DiVerde added.Rockford Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Ehren Jarrett explained, “During my 13 years leading Rockford Public Schools, Sarah Wolf stands out among the community leaders who consistently make a positive impact. She tirelessly advocates for students, including arranging field trips to the Discovery Center and creating opportunities for extended learning throughout the year. Her commitment to RPS staff, students, and families has truly made a difference. I’m immensely grateful for her years of dedicated leadership and service.” When asked about Sarah Wolf’s legacy, John Groh, president/CEO of the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau had this to say: “When I think of Sarah Wolf, I think of a young mom and teacher who simply wanted to improve the educational opportunities for local children and along the way created one of the finest children’s museums in the country. Over the years, Sarah and her team have welcomed more than 5 million visitors and residents to the museum, making it one of Rockford’s top visitor destinations and generating significant tourism spending in the community. As she retires, Sarah will give away the credit for the museum’s growth and success to others. However, without Sarah’s indomitable spirit, her relentless drive for quality, her deep love for children and her creative ability to solve problems and seize opportunities the Discovery Center Museum would not be the crown jewel of Rockford’s museum community or the national model of excellence it is today.” Under Sarah Wolf’s direction, Discovery Center Museum: Welcomed almost five million visitors and served almost 6.5 million children and families including its school and outreach programs since its opening in 1981. Transformed into a major tourism destination. Successfully completed two major capital campaigns. The first campaign centered on the transformation of a downtown Sears building into a museum campus in 1991. The second campaign allowed Discovery Center to expand its exhibit and classroom space, create new exhibits, and build a shared exhibition hall with Burpee Museum in 2010. Created the nation’s first community-built outdoor science park in 1991. The park, situated behind Discovery Center on the banks of the Rock River, has received numerous accolades. It was built by thousands of volunteers over the course of several weeks. Participated in a seven-museum national collaborative that developed science-based traveling exhibitions that toured the country. Known as TEAMS, the collaborative received four National Science Foundation grants in recognition of the excellence of their work. Formed long-term partnerships with NASA, providing access to information, funding, and resources to excite and inform children about space-related topics. Established Fun for Everyone events (for children with disabilities and their families) and mentor memberships (for area social service agencies serving children and families), providing opportunities for hundreds of people to enjoy free visits to Discovery Center. Established an endowment program for the museum currently valued at approximately $1 million. “It has been my privilege and pleasure to work with so many dedicated and skilled board members, staff, and volunteers over the years,” said Sarah Wolf. “I am proud of all we accomplished together.” Sarah Wolf grew up in Belleville, Illinois, and earned a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Illinois as well as a master’s degree in education from Northern Illinois University. She is co-editor of the book, Handbook for Small Science Centers. Wolf is married, has two sons and daughters-in-law, and four grandchildren. Upon her retirement, she looks forward to spending more time with her family and continuing her work with Alignment Rockford. Wolf has helped position Discovery Center to attract a successor who will guide the museum into the next stage of its evolution and expand on its role as a leader in playful learning.Discovery Center Museum is committed to continuing Sarah Wolf’s legacy. The museum’s Board of Directors has formed a search committee and is actively working to identify her successor.

The holidays are upon us and you might be looking for a delicious meal with loved ones. Head to Greenfire at 6795 E Riverside Blvd, Rockford, IL 61114 for a fresh luxury local experience.  Greenfire has been serving culinary classics for years now. With a menu that covers fine dining, gourmet burgers, pasta, and wood-fired pizza, your holiday group's preferences are covered.We started with the Duck Confit: slow-roasted duck breast with garlic mashed potatoes, asparagus, and blackberry gastrique. The duck had the perfect crisp skin and tender, juicy dark meat. The blackberry gastrique added that touch of sweet to the savory duck. The fresh asparagus complimented the garlic mashed potatoes (which are fabulous!). This dish was filling and beautifully presented.Next up was the Braised Beef Short Rib: slow-roast beef short rib with garlic mashed potatoes and farm vegetables. This hearty cut of beef short rib just melts in your mouth. Aus jus is ladled over this dish, giving a savory addition to your potatoes and keeping each bite juicy. The farm vegetables are so fresh and crisp. The variety is delicious: beets, peppers, broccoli, carrots, and more. All roasted together and dusted with a large ground salt. The dish feels rich with every bite.We highly encourage you to stay for dessert! You can't go wrong with Greenfire's top notch bakery. You deserve it, so indulge!  Enjoy your next evening out at Greenfire. See you there, Rockford!

Happy Tuesday, Rockford! Are you ready to make your voice heard and win big? We're back with another exciting poll, and this time we want to know which Local Bakery in town is your absolute favorite. Don't miss your chance to influence the results and be entered to win an amazing gift card. All you have to do is click on the link below, cast your vote, and tag your favorite bakery in the comments section. It's that simple! We can't wait to hear your recommendations!

Capri Restaurant, a family-owned Italian eatery that has been serving the community of Rockford for over 58 years, is getting ready to move to a new location on Riverside Boulevard. The purchase of the new premises, the former Shell gas station situated at 6480 E. Riverside Blvd., has been finalized by the restaurant's owners. The new location will offer more space and better accessibility for customers, as well as ample parking.The owners are eager to begin the renovation and remodeling process of the new premises in order to have the restaurant up and running as soon as possible. They plan to start the demolition work right away, with the aim of opening a carryout service in the near future. The owners have also announced that they intend to open a full dine-in restaurant at the new location in the coming year.Capri Restaurant has been a cherished part of the downtown Rockford community since it first opened its doors in 1963. The restaurant has become a local institution known for its delicious, authentic Italian cuisine, and its welcoming atmosphere. Capri Restaurant's loyal customer base is excited to see what the future holds for this beloved establishment.

Discovery Center has the perfect solution for stress-free holiday shoppingROCKFORD, IL. – With the holiday season in full swing, the question of what to get each person on the list looms large. For holiday shoppers hoping to find the perfect gift for young scientists, engineers, or anyone with natural curiosity, Discovery Center has several answers:1.     A gift from the museum gift shopEnjoy relaxing, inspired shopping in the Discoveries to Go museum gift shop. For those wanting to encourage future minds with activities and toys that spur wonder and curiosity about the world around us, Discovery Center’s gift shop has the answer! The gift shop offers an inspired collection of items ranging from science kits and space toys to puzzles, books, plush animals, jewelry, and more. Enjoy extra savings during the holiday sale from December 1 – 17. Members will receive a 25% discount and the Public will receive 15% off their total gift shop purchase! The gift shop is open Tuesday– Sunday from 9:30 am- 4:30 pm. 2.     A Gift MembershipFor the child in your life who has more toys than he/she knows what to do with, a membership to Discovery Center is the perfect answer. This “experience” gift gives a family 365 days of playful learning and family memories. An annual membership ($135 for a basic family or grandparent membership) also entitles the owner to discounts on classes, camps, birthday parties, and rentals; invitations to members-only events, discounts in the gift shop and free or reduced admission to more than 300 museums across the country! Purchase a membership online at http://www.discoverycentermuseum.org/exhibits/give-the-gift-of-membership or call 815-963-6769.   3.     A Gift CertificateWhy is a gift certificate to Discovery Center a great choice? You’ve got no worries about slow shipping, they work for any budget, and can be purchased onsite or online! Gift certificates can be made in any amount and be used for a day visit, classes, gift shop purchase, or toward a membership. Purchase a gift certificate online at https://www.discoverycentermuseum.org/visit/gift-certificates or call 815-963-6769. 

Rockford Rescue Mission has received a $36,641 grant to provide child care while residents and guests rebuild their lives in the Mission’s Works! Center. The grant was awarded by the Dr. Louis and Violet Rubin Fund of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois.Through the Works! Center and local partnerships, the Mission provides free education, vocational training and certifications in various career specialties. But many of the women who use these services are moms who also need child care. They are in desperate circumstances: homelessness, chemical dependency, domestic violence or destructive relationships — not to mention simply being unemployed or underemployed. Most arrive with no hope of finding, or being able to afford, quality child care on their own.“For moms in our care, child care costs represent a barrier to finding their way out,” said Sherry Pitney, Rockford Rescue Mission CEO. “This grant from the Community Foundation is a true blessing because it removes that barrier.”The Mission contracts with the YMCA of Rock River Valley to provide child care four mornings a week at the Mission. Meanwhile, their moms take life-skills classes and receive help finding employment and housing — moving from desperation and dependence toward wholeness and stability.Rockford Rescue Mission is the Rock River Valley’s primary provider of homeless services, including crisis care, career training, health care and Life Recovery programs. The Mission has served individuals and families since 1964.The Mission of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois is to inspire endowment and philanthropy for the current and future needs of the people of northern Illinois. Since its founding in 1953, the CFNIL has granted more than $85 million for charitable purposes. Learn more about CFNIL’s history, grantmaking and commitment to endowment at cfnil.org.

The second annual 815HORTS: A 5HORT Film Festival, presented by the City of Rockford + Rockford Film Office, returns this Saturday, December 2, with an expanded line-up highlighted by 13 acclaimed short 815HORTS films, an Oscar-nominated featured guest, the Sundance Film Festival Short Film Tour, educational content, and more. To help get prepped for the film festivities, the 815HORTS event week quick facts are here to help prep for Saturday’s show: ▪ Great Seats: General admission tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students with ID (under 17 requires adult supervision). Attendees are encouraged to purchase tickets online ahead of time (atthe-door sales will be accepted as available). Re-entry will be allowed for ticketed guests. Visit www.815HORTS.com or https://filmfreeway.com/815HORTS/tickets to buy your tickets! ▪ 13 5HORT Films: During 815HORTS, 13 acclaimed short films will be screened during the 815HORTS Matinees block at 3 p.m. and 815HORTS Prime Time features at 7 p.m.. Genres include suspense, comedy, documentary, thriller, and music video. ▪ Bing Liu Returns Home: Academy Award-nominated filmmaker and Rockford native Bing Liu is back home this weekend as a featured guest. Liu’s latest short film titled “What the Hands Do” will make its Rockford premiere during the 7 p.m. Prime Time block, after which Liu will be interviewed onstage by Illinois Film Office director Peter Hawley during the 5HORT Talk interview series. And, yes, we will be taking questions from the audience! ▪ Lunch + Learn: With the purchase of a general admission ticket to 815HORTS, The 5HORT Route: Building a Career Through Short Films is a free lunch and learn session exclusive to the first 50 registrants. The 5HORT Route will be held from 12-2 p.m. at City Stage Studios (821 First Avenue, Rockford, IL 61104), where attendees will learn about leveraging the art of short filmmaking to help create a successful career arc. Limited space remains. To reserve your Lunch + Learn spot, purchase your GA 815HORTS ticket and email Nick@PlusSevenCompany.com. ▪ Sundance is Back: For the second-straight year, 815HORTS welcomes the world’s most prestigious film festival brand back to the Forest City with a screening of the 2023 Sundance Film Festival Short Film Tour. This year’s Sundance Shorts Tour features seven films from the 2023 Sundance Film Festival, including two Sundance award winners. The Sundance Shorts Tour screening is set for 5 p.m. Saturday (between the 815HORTS Matinees (3 p.m.) and Prime Time (7 p.m.) blocks). ▪ Tacos for Dinner: Guests are encouraged to have dinner onsite, as the Olivo Taco food truck will be on hand from 5-7 p.m. outside the box office entrance of the RPL Nordlof Center. ▪ Drinks for Sale: If you’re thirsty, District Bar & Grill will have a variety of drinks for purchase at the RPL Nordlof Center lobby bar throughout the day and evening. ▪ And the Winner Is…: The 5HORT Awards will close the evening by recognizing 2023 winners for Best 5HORT (Best in Show) and Best Local/Regional 5HORT. The award show is scheduled to begin at approximately 9:30 p.m. (Note: Program times may vary.) ▪ Giving Back: As the Rockford Public Library (RPL) Foundation is our nonprofit partner, a portion of the event’s net proceeds will benefit the RPL Foundation’s film related youth programs! For more information, visit www.815HORTS.com and follow @p7company / @PlusSevenCompany on social. -MORE- Plus Seven Company | PlusSevenCompany.com Page 2 of 2, 815HORTS: A 5HORT Film Festival – The Quick Facts 815HORTS PARTNERS Plus Seven Company would like to thank the following partners and individuals for supporting 815HORTS: ▪ Presenting Partners: City of Rockford + Rockford Film Office ▪ Premier Partner: Illinois Film Office ▪ Supporting Partner: Ron Clewer ▪ In-Kind Partners: RPL Nordlof Center/Rockford Public Library, City Stage Studios, District Bar & Grill ▪ Nonprofit Partner: Rockford Public Library Foundation ▪ Special Thanks: Dena Altamore, Don Hatton, Peter Hawley, Jerry LaBuy, Bing Liu, Josiah Sjöström ABOUT PLUS SEVEN COMPANY Plus Seven Company delivers winning events and experiences with expertise in brand building, partnerships, public relations, and tourism advisory. Visit www.PlusSevenCompany.com for more information. Contact: Nick Povalitis, Plus Seven Company, Nick@PlusSevenCompany.com, 815.708.1644.

The African-American Resource Center at Booker (AARCB) is a non-profit organization serving the community for over one hundred seven years. The center is located in the southwest quadrant of Rockford, Illinois. AARCB provides services and resources to families through its MISSION of utilizing education, art recreation, mentorship and cultural programs to create an environment that promote and enhance the quality of life by celebrating the achievements and improving the welfare of our community members.

We headed out to Scoreboard Bar by Hoffman House to enjoy a great meal and traditional sports bar atmosphere. With tons of TVs, you won't miss a single play while you happily sip and munch on your meal.First up, a classic... mozzarella sticks! I mean, cheese in any form is a crowd pleaser. These are fried to golden perfection and come out hot and melty. Served with marinara sauce, this appetizer flies off the table.Next up, the Hoffman House Shaved Prime Rib sandwich with mushrooms and onions on a hoagie bun with au jus. This massive sandwich takes two hands and a big appetite to finish. The bread is sturdy enough to go the distance with you as you enjoy this fabulous creation. Dip to your heart's content in the au jus and enjoy the flavor of the prime rib. This decadent sandwich is served with your choice of side.  They also have dinner specials! We ordered the Golden Fried Shrimp, jumbo golf shrimp thick battered and fried, and served with Hoffman House cocktail sauce. Coming with soup or salad, and a side, this dinner is filling and delicious. The thick batter adds a hearty flavor to the perfectly fried shrimp.Whether you want traditional bar snacks, or an elevated dinner experience, Scoreboard can serve your needs. Stop on in the next time you are looking for a local experience on East State Street. See you there, Rockford!

Stepping Stones of Rockford, Inc. is proud to announce that it has received a $11,730.00 grant from the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois Grants Program, with support from the Dr. Louis and Violet Rubin Fund, to purchase Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) which will be installed in several of the organization’s facilities. The Benefits of the Grant: According to Dr. Myron Weisfeldt of John Hopkins University, the use of AEDs before emergency medical services arrive (by bystanders), saves about 1,700 lives per year in the United States and having them available could possibly save another 500 lives. The AEDs funded by the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois will provide a great deal of comfort to the staff at Steppig Stones knowing these devices are available to help save lives at our facilities in the unfortunate incident that a person needs a shock. The AEDs will be placed in eleven facilities and will serve as important risk management tools in the event of their need. Susan Schroeder, CEO, LCSW of Stepping Stones of Rockford, Inc. said about the grant: “I was so pleased the trustees of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois recognized the value of funding our grant request to help Stepping Stones install AEDs in our facilities. The installation of these devices means we will have another method to help save the life of a person who is in need of a shock until emergency medical services personnel arrive.“ About Stepping Stones of Rockford, Inc.: Stepping Stones of Rockford, Inc. is a private 501 ( c ) ( 3 ) nonprofit behavioral healthcare organization that provides mental health services to children aged six and older and youth with severe emotional disturbances and housing and psychiatric rehabilitation services to adults with serious mental illnesses. Since beginning as a single halfway house in 1969, Stepping Stones has grown to become northern Illinois’ leading provider of residential programs designed to meet the housing and recovery needs of adults with mental illnesses. To learn more about Stepping Stones, please visit https://steppingstonesrockford.org. About the AED Project: The AEDs funded by the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois will be installed in the organization’s facilities. Clinical staff will receive training on the use of the devices as part of their initial CPR/First Aid training and during their on-going re-certification sessions. About the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois: The mission of the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (CFNIL) is to inspire endowment and provide philanthropy for the current and future needs of the people of Northern Illinois. Since its founding in 1953, CFNIL has granted over $85 million for charitable purposes. Learn more about CFNIL’s grantmaking and commitment to endowment at cfnil.org.  

Baked Wings, located at 6390 E Riverside Blvd, Loves Park, IL 61111, is celebrating one year in business! We stopped in to try the pun-inspired food and great atmosphere.When you walk into Baked Wings, you can head to the counter to place your order and then find a table. If you opt for the bar seating, you can order directly from the bar. Large TVs featuring the game of the hour are hung above the bar and ready to entertain you.We couldn't decide whether to get baked or get smashed... so we opted for both. Good times were had by all 😂. This pun-inspired theme is fun and woven into the restaurant menu and decor. Baked Wings features wings that are baked instead of fried for a delicious wing experience. The dusts aren't just for the wings. You can add them to the fries and other sides as well. For the record, hot buffalo fries are a new favorite around here.We tried a Hen Held, the Nashville Hot: a tender chicken breast (seared or hand battered) with Nashville hot sauce, coleslaw, garlic aioli, and pickles on a brioche bun. This delicious sandwich isn't a burner. Fans of a milder burn can enjoy this one for the flavor. The coleslaw is made fresh and the flavors melt together perfectly in this saucy sandwich. The chicken is so tender and juicy. No dry birds around here!Next, we got smashed with the Honey Pit: 2 Smashed Beef Patties, Honey BBQ Rub, Two Slices Of Cheddar Cheese, Crispy Onion Rings, Wake and Bake BBQ Sauce On A Toasted Potato Bun. This burger is stacked high and a true masterpiece. The sweet BBQ sauce brings all the elements together in harmony. Featuring Baked Wings onion rings, this burger is fantastic and a crowd favorite.Whether you decide to get smashed or baked at Baked Wings, you can't go wrong! Stop in and celebrate their first year in business with your favorite dish. See you there, Rockford!