Community Calendar: Week of Sept. 14-20, 2011

Ongoing Attractions

Rockford Public Library Hours – Main Library open Tues.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; East Branch open Mon.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Rock River and Montague branches open Tues.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Rockton Centre Branch open Mon.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Lewis Lemon Branch open Mon.-Fri., 2-6 p.m. All library locations closed Sundays.

Merchant Family Civil War Display – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, Local History Room, 215 N. Wyman St. Winnebago County family who sent 10 sons to the military during the Civil War. Thru September.

Burpee Museum of Natural History – 737 N. Main St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Info: 815-965-3433.

Discovery Center Museum – 711 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Info: 815-963-6769.

Tinker Swiss Cottage – 411 Kent St. Tours 1, 2, 3 p.m., Tues.-Sun. New exhibit: “Barn Quilt” on Tinker Barn to celebrate Northern Illinois Quilt Fest thru September. Info: 815-964-2424.

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden – 2715 S. Main St. Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission $6 adults, $3 seniors & students, children younger than 3 and Klehm members, free. Info: 815-965-8146.

Through the Branches – A Quilter’s Perspective – Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St. Exhibit runs through September. Free with Arboretum daily admission fee. Adults $6, seniors 65+/students $3, members and children younger than 5, free. Info: 815-965-8146.

Anderson Japanese Gardens – 318 Spring Creek Road. Open May 1-Oct. 31. Info: 815-229-9390.

Memorial Hall – 211 N. Main St. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon-Fri., or by appointment. Now exhibiting: “Flashes of Glory,” recognizing those leaders from Winnebago County who led battalions during the Civil War. Info: 815-969-1999.

Camp Grant – 1004 Samuelson Road. 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Tues.-Sat. Restaurant on premises. Info: 815-395-0679.

Lewis Lemon Community Center – 1993 Mulberry St. Mon.-Fri., 5:30-11 p.m. Free. Info: 815-987-8800.

Ethnic Heritage Museum – 1129 S. Main St. Sun., 2-4 p.m. Featuring “Garibaldi Guard!” honoring the 39th New York Infantry, a regiment of Italian-American men who fought under Giuseppe Garibaldi; runs until Nov. 30. Admission $3 individual, $5 family. Info: 815-962-7402.

Pine Tree Pistol Club – Info about club & classes: 815-874-7399.

Graham-Ginestra House Museum – 1115 S. Main St. Sundays, 2-4 p.m. Info: 815-968-6044.

Midway Village – 6799 Guilford Road. Mon.-Sat., noon-4 p.m. Exhibit Stitches and Scraps: Quilts from the Museum’s Collection until Oct. 1. Info: 815-397-9112.

Stone Quarry Recreation Park – 6845 N. German Church Road, Byron. Mon.-Fri., 4-8 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., noon-8 p.m. Info: 815-234-8900.

Health Classes/Seniors Meetings/Support Groups – OSF Saint Anthony Center for Health. Call for specific meetings/dates/info: 815-395-4505.

Support Groups/Youth Drop-in Hours – Diversity of Rockford, 117 S. Third St. Free. Weekly. Call for specific meetings/dates/info: 815-964-2639.

Alcoholics Anonymous – Call for locations/times/info: 815-227-4633 or 815-968-0333.

Narcotics Anonymous – Call for locations/times/info: 815-964-5959 or 888-656-7329.

Support for Retired Grievers – Zion Lutheran Church, 925 Fifth Ave. 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Every other Wed. Call for dates/info: 815-636-4750.

Overeaters Anonymous H.O.W.– Every Thursday at Byron Public Library, Route 2. 12-step study group – 5:30-6 p.m. Regular group meets 6-7:30 p.m. Info: 815-734-4662.

Rockford Public Library Used Book Shop – Rockford Public Library, 215 N. Wyman St. Mon.-Wed., noon-8 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Info: 815-965-7606.

Ken-Rock Community Center – 3218 11th St. Various activities throughout the year. Info: 815-398-8864.

Womanspace – 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Yoga every Thursday, 9:30-10:45 a.m. $40/four classes or $12/class. Basic Hatha Yoga. Other activities throughout the year. Info: 815-877-0118.

Beckman Mill Park – 11600 S. County Road H, off Highway 81. Tours 1-4 p.m. Corn grinding demonstrations, see the blacksmith shop, creamery & visitor center. Info: 608-751-1551.

Heritage Farm Museum – 8059 N. River Road, Byron. Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 217.

Poplar Grove Vintage Wings and Wheels Museum – 5151 Orth Road, Poplar Grove. Open weekdays 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Info: 815-547-3115.

Rock River Valley Blood Center – 419 N. Sixth St. Mon.-Thurs., 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Fri., 6:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Info: 815-965-8751 or 866-889-9037.

Kishwaukee Valley A.B.A.T.E. Meeting – V.F.W., 2018 Windsor Road, Loves Park. Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. Info: 815-544-3088.

Land of Oz Corn Maze – 3262 E. 1951 Road, Ottawa, Ill. 5 p.m. until dusk. Fund-raiser for local Camp Fire Council. Open weekends thru Oct. 30. Night hikes available by reservation only, minimum of six. For information/directions: 815-488-5000.

Open Doors – Court Street United Methodist Church Chapel, 215 N. Court St. 12:30-1 p.m. Every Wed. Enter north end. Info: 815-962-6061.

Historic Auto Attractions – 13825 Metric Drive, Roscoe. Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Info: 815-389-9999.

Angelic Organics Learning Center – 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Various classes & activities throughout the year. Info: 815-389-8455.

Byron Museum of History – 106 N. Union St., Byron. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-234-5031.

The Bridge Center of Rockford – 4861 American Road. Games & classes for beginners through experts. Info: 815-873-9334.

Becca’s Closet – Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1829 N. Rockton Ave. Accepting donations of gently-used formal wear. Donations accepted Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at: Machesney Park City Hall (300 Machesney Road), Classic Formal Wear (Colonial Village Mall), United Way of Rock River Valley (612 N. Main St.), Crusader Clinic (1200 W. State St.) & Harlem Roscoe Fire Station (Bridge & Main streets, Roscoe). Info: 815-289-3551.

Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off – Rock River Water Reclamation District, 3333 Kishwaukee St. Sat., 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., noon-4 p.m.

Club Round: A Clubhouse for Round People – 7120 Windsor Lake Pkwy., Suite 202, Loves Park. Various activities throughout the year. Info: 815-639-0312.

Rockton Township Historical Society Museum – Corner of Blackhawk Boulevard & Green Street, Rockton. Open for tours every Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-624-4830.

Singles Together Across Rockford (STAR) – Volleyball/Game Nights resume Sept. 10, 7-10 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 343 Grand Ave., Loves Park. Second and fourth Saturdays of each month. Info: 815-962-4279.

Having Trouble Hearing on the Phone? – Center for Sight & Hearing, 8038 Macintosh Lane. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri. Free amplified phone program. Must be Illinois resident and have standard phone service. Application/info: 815-332-6800.

Winnebago County Health Dept. Flu Vaccine Available – For flu clinic schedule, call 815-720-4264 or go to www.wchd.org.

Stretch & Belly Dance Combo Beginners’ Class – Club Round, 7120 Windsor Lake Parkway. 7:30-9 p.m. Classes every Mon., Wed. & Fri. Registration/info: 815-639-0312.

Adventure Club – Jarrett Center, Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road, Byron. 9-11 a.m. or 1-3 p.m. Ages 3-6. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Intermediate Writing/Publishing Class – Meets every Mon. Call for information. Info: 224-343-0384.

Introduction to Card-Making/Stamping – Meets every Thurs. Call for information. Info: 224-343-0384.

Toddler Time – Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 2001 N. Alpine Road. 9:15-10:15 a.m. Every Mon. and Tues. Free. Info: 815-399-3171.

Neighborhood Tool Bank – 907 S. Main St. Loans out tools for gardening & cleanup projects. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Mon.-Thurs.; and 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Friday. Thru Oct. 1. Make appointment in advance. Info: 815-963-6236.

Logan Museum of Anthropology – 700 College St., Beloit, Wis. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Tues.-Sun. Info: 608-363-2677.

Yoga Classes – Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 Third Ave., Rockford. Mondays, 6-7:15 p.m., six weeks consecutive, $45 or single classes, $10 each. Register/Info: 815-963-4815.

Jarrett Center – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road, Byron. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Summerfield Zoo – 3088 Flora Road, Belvidere. Open two weekends a month, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sundays. Open one weekday per month. Admission: $7 adults, $5 children. Info: 815-547-4852.

Registration for Canoe the Rock – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Meet at Heritage Farm Museum. Date: Sept. 18. 9 a.m.-noon. Cost: $20/canoe. Register by Sept. 16. All ages. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for Trip to LeClaire Distillery and American Pickers – Byron Forest Preserve District. Meet at Jarrett Center. Date: Sept. 24. 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Cost: $15/person. Register by Sept. 16. Info: 815-234-8l535, ext. 200.

Registration for Trip to St. Louis – Byron Forest Preserve District. Meet at Jarrett Center. Visit the zoo, science center, Bud brewery. Dates: Sept. 24-25. Leave at 10 a.m. Cost: $195/room. All ages. Register by Sept. 16. Info: 815-234-8535.

Registration for OSF “CATCH” Program for children & parents – OSF St. Anthony Center for Health. Date: Sept. 27, 4-5 p.m. Classes in exercise, nutrition and healthy lifestyle. Fee: $25. Info: 815-395-4505.

Reservations for La Voz Latina’s 40th Anniversary Celebration Banquet – Date: Sept. 23. Cliffbreakers. Cost: $50/person, $600/corporate table of 8. Info: 815-965-5784 or www.lavozlatina-rkfd.org.

Wednesday, Sept. 14

Edgebrook Farmers’ Market – Edgebrook Shopping Center, 1601 N. Alpine Road. Every Wednesday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Local produce. Rockford Rescue Mission will have bins available for donations. Donations can be dropped off at several locations. Info: 815-226-0212.

City of Rockford Community Development Department: View the Draft 2012 Annual Update of the 2010-2014 Consolidated Plan – Patriots Gateway Center, 615 S. Fifth St. 5:30 p.m.

Girl Scout Alumnae Garden Party – Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St. 1-4 p.m. $10 registration fee includes activities. Info: 800-242-5591, ext. 7210 or www.girlscoutsni.org.

Hispanic Author Celebration – Rockford Public Library, Montague Branch, Connie Lane Room,1238 S. Winnebago St. 5-6 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

Tips on Athletic Recruiting – Hononegah High School, 307 Salem St., Rockton. 7:30 p.m. Former college football player Dave Carl will speak to parents and athletes in grades 7 to 12 about taking high school athletics to the next level. Free. Info: 312-624-7437.

Internet – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 2-4 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Info: 815-965-7606.

Online Job Search – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 6-8 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Info: 815-965-7606.

Babes and Books – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 11:15 a.m.-noon. Children younger than 2. Develop baby’s literacy & social skills through rhymes, stories, songs. Info: 815-965-7606.

Comedy: Mike Brody & Eric Koconis – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. Info: 815-877-8007.

Look, Listen, and Learn Storytime – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, 6685 E. State St. 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Ages 3-6. Info: 815-965-7606.

Wednesday Storytime – Rockford Public Library, Rock River Branch, 3128 11th St. 4-4:45 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

Home School Skate and Play – Carlson Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4d150 N. Perryville Road. Indoor ice skating from 2:20-4:20 p.m. every Wed. thru May 16, 2012. Open for children 12 and younger. Discounted prices: admission, $2.50 ($3 non-resident); skate rental, $1.50, Playworld admision, $2.50 ($3 non-resident). Family package $20 ($25 non-resident) includes skating admission, skate rental & Playworld admission for up to 4 family members. Info: 815-969-4069 or www.rockfordparkdistrict.org. For people with disabilities, call 815-987-8800.

Breastfeeding Class – OSF Saint Anthony Center for Life, St. Anthony and St. Joseph Rooms, 5666 E. State St. 7-9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-227-2695.

Gastric Banding & Bypass Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Center for Health, 5510 E. State St. 5-6 p.m. Info: 815-227-2761.

Weight Loss Orientation – OSF Saint Anthony Center for Health, rotates among three OSF locations. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. every Wed. Info: 815-395-4505.

“Woman to Woman” Breast Cancer Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Center for Cancer Care, 5666 E. State St. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free. Info: 815-227-2624.

Psychology Boot Camp – Spectrum of Rockford LGBTQA, 6625 N. Second St., Loves Park. Wednesdays from 7:30-9 p.m. Learn cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) techniques. Build your mental strengths. Cost: $15 per group session. Register at: 815-639-0300.

Thursday, Sept. 15

City of Rockford Community Development Department: View the Draft 2012 Annual Update of the 2010-2014 Consolidated Plan – Northwest Community Center, 1325 N. Johnston Ave. Noon.

Rosie’s Birthday Club Fund-raiser – Cliffbreakers Resort, 700 W. Riverside Blvd. 5-8 p.m. Tickets: $40 or $320 for corporate table. Live cake decorating and cake auction to benefit Rosie’s. Help needy children in the Rockford area who may otherwise be forgotten. Make reservations. Info: 815-543-7770 or www.rosiesbirthdayclub.org.

“A Trip to India” Style Show – Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road. Noon-1:30 p.m. Ester Prabhakar will present a style show with saris. Dr. John Prabhaker will speak on “Prescription for Life: The Presence of God in the Midst of Illness.” Cost: $13.50 includes lunch. Men are welcome. RSVP: 815-222-3015.

Open Auditions for 2011 Scream-atorium & Fear Asylum Haunted Houses – Auburn High School, Room 739 (Studio B), 5110 Auburn St. 4-7 p.m. Must be 16 years or older. Info: 815-965-6772.

Tour of Hangar at Camp Grant Museum – Meet at Command Post Restaurant, 1004 Samuelson Road. 7 p.m. Cliff Wilewski, owner of Heritage Aero, Inc. will give a tour of hangar where vintage aircraft are being restored. Info: 815-395-0679.

“An Evening to Remember” Wine Tasting – Orchard Ridge Farms, Pavilion, Rockton. 6-10 p.m. Tickets: $ 100 couple or $75 person. Proceeds to benefit Stateline Boys & Girls Club. Wines, hors d’oeuvres, desserts, silent auction, drawing for game-day package at Packers-Bears game Sept. 25. Raffle tickets can be purchased. Info: 608-365-8874 or www.statelinebgc.org.

ESL Enrollment – Rock Valley College, Woodward Technology Center, Room 117, 3301 N. Mulford Road. 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Info: 815-921-2000.

Bilingual Thursdays Storytime (Spanish/English] – Rockford Public Library, Rock River Branch, Program Room, 3128 11th St. 4-4:45 p.m. Ages 3-8. Info: 815-965-7606.

Genealogy: Intermediate – Rockford Public LIbrary, Main Library Classroom A, 215 N. Wyman St. 2-3:30 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Look, Listen and Learn Storytime – Rockford Public LIbrary, East Branch, 6685 E. State St. 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Ages 3-6. Info: 815-965-7606.

Preschool Picnic Storytime – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. Noon-12:45 p.m. Ages 3-6. Info: 815-965-7606.

Say It Two Ways Bilingual Storytime – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 12-12:45 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

Ecology 101 – Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St. 7-9 p.m. Jack Pizzo will speak about sustainable landscapes. Free. Info: 815-282-5482.

Breast Cancer Risk Reduction Class – OSF Saint Anthony Center for Cancer Care, 5666 E. State St. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Registration is required. Info: 815-227-2618.

SOUNS for Infants – Rockford Public Library, East Branch Children’s Area, 6685 E. State St. 6-6:45 p.m. Ages under 2. Literacy-building program. Info: 815-965-7606.

Open Mic – Katie’s Cup, 502 Seventh St. Free. Info: 815-986-0628.

Sunset Storytime – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 6:30-7:15 p.m. Ages 4-10. Info: 815-965-7606.

Swing Dancing – St. Edward Church, 3004 11th St. 8-10:30 p.m. Every Thurs. Info: 815-914-7441.

OSF “Stepping Forward” Cancer Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Center for Cancer Care, 5666 E. State St. 6:30-8 p.m. Info: 815-227-2223.

Support for Grief After Suicide – Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 4700 Augustana Drive. 7 p.m. Free. Every other Thurs. Call for schedule/info: 815-399-0202.

Unplugged Gamers Night – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Young Adult Zone, 215 N. Wyman St. 5-7 p.m. Board games, Yu-Gi-Oh! trading cards, classic card games. Info: 815-965-7606.

Latino Film Festival – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Auditorium, 215 N. Wyman St. 6-8 p.m. Ages 18 and older. Info: 815-987-6633.

Learn Self-Hypnosis for Wellness – Entrance Center, 5844 Elaine Drive, Rockford. 6:30-8 p.m. $25. Call in advance: 815-397-5901.

A Ministry of Restoration Bible Study – Montague Branch Library, 1238 S. Winnebago St. 5:30 p.m. Every Thurs. Prayer every Tues. 6:30 p.m. For prayer or info: 815-966-6322.

Overeaters Anonymous H.O.W. – Byron Public Library, on Ill. Route 2. 6-7:30 p.m. every Thurs. Info: 815-547-5932.

LGBT Movie Night – Spectrum of Rockford, 7120 Windsor Lake Parkway, Suite 202, Loves Park. 7:30-10 p.m. Ages 16 and up. $10/person/ RSVP: 815-639-0312.

Senior DigiPhoto No. 2 – Rockford Public Library, East Branch Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 1-3 p.m. Ages 55 and older. Bring your camera with memory card, all cables and power cord or charger, and instruction booklet. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Tues., Thurs. & Fridays during school year, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Friday, Sept. 16

Lois and Willard Mackey Chair reading by Giles Foden – Beloit College, Pearsons Hall, Moore Lounge, 700 College St., Beloit, Wis. 8 p.m. Award-winning British novelist and author. Info: www.beloit.edu/arts.

GED Enrollment – Rock Valley College, Learning & Opportunity Center, Room 216, 308 W. State St . 9 a.m. Info: 815-921-2000.

Roundtable Lunch – Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles St. Noon. Speaker: Dr. John Howard, Senior Fellow and founder at The Howard Center, will speak about: “America’s Best Colleges! Really?” Q & A session to follow. Cost: $15 members, $25 non-members. Info: 815-964-5819.

RSO SoundBites Series – Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Country Clulb, 5151 Guilford Road. Noon. Discussions with Music Director Steven Larsen prior to Saturday’s concert. Free, but reservations recommended. Guests may bring their lunch or order from the menu. Info: 815-965-0049.

Midtown Farmers’ Market – Seventh Street and Second Avenue, across from Nicholson’s Hardware. Every Friday until mid-October, 3-7 p.m. Local produce, honey, cheese, snacks, crafts, with local musicians performing every week.

Rockford City Market – 200 Water St. between State and Jefferson streets. Thru Oct. 21. 3-7 p.m. 25+ vendors. Live music by Frank Calvagna & Mike Youngblood, entertainment. Featuring University of Illinois Extension Office’s “Plant Parts” and a “Learn Great Foods Cooking Demonstration.” Info: 815-964-4388 or rockfordcitymarket.com.

Farmers’ Market – HCC Realty, 1240 S. Alpine Road.

Drop-In Storytime – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 10:30-11 a.m. Info: 815-965-7606.

Girlz Talk – Rockford Public Library, Lewis Lemon Branch, 1988 W. Jefferson St. 4-5 p.m. Ages 9-13. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Black Cinema Discussion Series: Waiting for Superman – Rockford Public Library, Montague Branch, Connie Lane Room, 1238 S. Winnebago Stl. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Ages 18 and older. Info: 815-965-7606.l

Say It Two Ways Bilingual Storytime – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 10:30-11 a.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

Senior Drop-In Computer Lab – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 2-4 p.m. Ages 55 and older. Info: 815-965-7606.

Diabetes Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Francis Room, 5666 E. State St. 6:30 p.m. open discussion. Free. Info: 815-395-5159.

Spectrum of Rockford LGBTQA – Harmony Center, 6625 N. Second St., Loves Park. Teen Drop-In, 4-6 p.m. Young Adult Group, 4-6 p.m. Rockford Rainbow Group, 6-7:30 p.m. Bisexual Group, 6-7:30 p.m. Gay Men’s Group, 6-7:30 p.m. Rockford Pride Fest Board Meeting, 7:30-8:30 p.m. Lesbian Women’s Group, 8:30-10 p.m. Transgender Group, 8:30-10 p.m. Cost/Info: 815-639-0312.

Wine Tasting w/live music by Kelly Steward – Cliffbreakers, 700 W. Riverside Blvd. 6-8 p.m. $10. Info: 815-282-3033.

Wellness for the Mind, Body & Spirit Lecture Series: Natural Health – Siena on Brendenwood, 4444 Brendenwood Road. 1:30 p.m. Ryan Hulsebus, D.C. Info: 815-399-6167.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Info: 815-969-4069.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Tues., Thurs. & Fridays during school year, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Extra Friday session begins Sept. 9, 80-10 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Saturday, Sept. 17

Greenwich Village Art Fair – Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main St. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Paintings, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, photographs, prints, sculpture, music, food, gourmet marketplace, Bohemian bazaar. Admission: $5 adults, children 12 and younger free. Advance tickets $3 at RAM or any Alpine Bank. Info: 815-968-2787.

Midwest Fire Academy – Rock Valley College Physical Education Center, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Blackhawk Firefighters Association presents the Academy, hosted by RVC, Rockford Fire Department, Cherry Valley Fire Protection District, Byron Fire Department and Harlem-Roscoe Fire Protection District. Instructors will teach courses. Free.

Children’s Health & Safety Safari – OSF St. Anthony Medical Center, 5666 E. State St. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Includes child safety car seat inspection. Info: 815-227-2055.

Cornbag Tournament Fund-raiser for Leaf River Days – Bertolet Park, Leaf River. Sign-up at 10:30 a.m., game starts at 11. Food, hot dogs, chips, drink. $30 per team.

“Operation Recreation” – Lockwood Park, 5201 Safford Road. Noon-5 p.m. Wagon, pony and trail rides, see & feed farm animals, enjoy playground. Event limited to first 500 military and/or family members who register. Military ID needed. Info: 815-987-8809.

Paddle Trips – Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. Second St. Paddle the Rock River from Sinnissippi to Atwood Forest Preserve; 9-mile trip. Reservations required. Info: Paddle & Trail at (855) 752-9688.

Forest City Queen Fall Rides – Riverview Park, 321 N. Madison St. Noon, 1:30 and 3 p.m. Adults, $5.50 ($6 non-resident); youth age 5-17, $4.50 ($5 non-resident); children (4 and younger), free. Groups (per individual) $4 ($4.50 non-resident). Advance registration required for 10 or more. Info: 815-987-8800.

Byron Chamber Chili Fest – BJ Way Park, corner of Washington and Route 2. Gates open 3 p.m., tasting starts at 4, awards at 6. Help Operation Santa and the Byron Kiwanis; buy a pork sandwich. Live entertainment: Firefighter Pumper Pull, 1 p.m,; Lost Karma, 3-6 p.m.; Tres Elliott. 6-9 p.m. Tickets: 6 for $20 advance or $5 at the gate. Info: 815-234-5500.

Rock & Mineral Swap Meet – Odd Fellows Hall, 6219 Forest Hills Road, Rockford. 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Free.

Saturday Fun Day – Lockwood Park Trailside Equestrian Center, 5209 Safford Road. $2 pony ring and hay rides; $22 trail rides ($24 non-resident); free children’s farm visits.

North End Farmers’ Market – North End Commons, 1400 N. Main St. Purchase fresh seasonal produce, cut flowers, plants and bakery items.

Mt. Carroll Farmers’ Market – Market Street Commons, 320 N. Main St., Mt. Carroll. 8 a.m.-noon, May thru October. Includes Learn Great Foods cooking demonstrations at 10 a.m. the first and second Saturdays of each month. Info: 800-244-9594.

(Rescheduled) 2011 Fatman Olympics – Blackhawk Springs Forest Preserve, 5360 Mulford Road, Cherry Valley. Noon. Sporting events: Fantastic Football Flinging, Putt Putting for Putzes, Home Run Derby, Buster’s Bean Bag Toss, Fabulous Free Throwing, Rag Arm Pitching, Fab Frizz. Cost: Adults, $25 BYOB, kids younger than 12, $10 to participate. Meats, refreshments, T-shirt provided. Bring a dish to pass. Part of proceeds go to Buster Lindsay Memorial Scholarship Fund. Info: 815-751-7683.

Local Rockford Fall Fest – Lou Bachrodt Auto Mall, 5695 E. State St. 10 a.m. -2 p.m. Food vendors on site. Sponsored by First Northern Credit Union and Lou Bachrodt Auto Mall. Cost: Donations of non-perishable food for a local food pantry.

Out of the Darkness Rockford Community Walk – Anderson Japanese Gardens, Dining Room, 318 Spring Creek Road. Check-in 10 a.m. Walk at 11 a.m. Sponsored by American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to raise awareness and reduce stigma. Help save lives. No minimum fund-raising requirement, no registration fee to participate in walk. Info: http://afsp.donordrive.com/event/rockford.

Hispanic Heritage Fiesta – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 11-11:45 a.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

Couponing 101 – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 10:30 a.m.-noon. Ages 18 and older. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Monarch Watch – Midwest Museum of Natural History, 425 W. State St., Sycamore. 10:30 a.m.-noon. Janie Grillo will present a program about the life stages of the monarch butterfly; see live butterflies. Cost: $4/person, plus museum admission, $5 children and seniors, $6 adults. Museum members, $3/person. No registration. Info: 815-895-9777.

Night of Thrills – Rockford Speedway, 9572 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park. Night of Thrills. Incinerator and Mechanical Mischief Monster Trucks, Doug Rose and his Green Mamba Jet Car Meltdown. Also Auto Soccer, Spectacular Drags, Hornets, Triple Steel Wall Crash, a Drifting Exhibition, Hillbilly Fun with Airbags, Smokey Burnout Contest, Roll Over Contest, Paintball Gauntlet, Exploding Event. Spectator gates open at 5 p.m., qualifying begins at 6 p.m. with the first race at 7:07 p.m. Reserved seats in the main grandstand are $18 for adults, $9 for ages 11 and younger. General admission adult tickets: $15, kids age 11and younger, $5. Info: 815-633-1500 or www.rockfordspeedway.com.

Kundalini Yoga – Lazy Dog Yoga Studio, 5428 Williams Drive, Roscoe. 9 a.m. Info: 970-485-0249.

Weiskopf Observatory–Public Viewing – Byron Forest Preserve District, Jarrett Center, 7993 N. River Road, Byron. Begins at dusk, every Saturday. Free. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 216.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Extra Saturday and Sunday session begins Sept. 10, 2-4 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Sunday, Sept. 18

Greenwich Village Art Fair – Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Paintings, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, photographs, prints, sculpture, music, food, gourmet marketplace, Bohemian bazaar. Admission: $5 adults, children 12 and younger free. Advance tickets $3 at RAM or any Alpine Bank. Info: 815-968-2787.

Irish Fest – St. Bridget’s Church, 600 Clifford Ave., Loves Park. Noon-7 p.m. Food, rides, children’s games, Irish Store, Irish Tea Room, entertainment, beer garden, raffle. Monetary and food donations welcome. Proceeds to benefit parish food pantry.

Canoe the Rock – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Meet at Heritage Farm Museum. 9 a.m.-noon. Cost: $20/canoe. Register by Sept. 16. All ages. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Paddle Trips – Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. Second St. Paddle the Rock River from Sinnissippi to Atwood Forest Preserve; 9-mile trip. Reservations required. Info: Paddle & Trail at (855) 752-9688.

Open Auditions for 2011 Scream-atorium & Fear Asylum Haunted Houses – Belvidere Park District (Baltic Mill), 916 W. Lincoln Ave. Noon-3 p.m. Must be 16 years or older. Info: 815-965-6772.

Forest City Queen Fall Rides – Riverview Park, 321 N. Madison St. Noon, 1:30 and 3 p.m. Adults, $5.50 ($6 non-resident); youth age 5-17, $4.50 ($5 non-resident); children (4 and under), free. Groups (per individual) $4 ($4.50 non-resident). Advance registration required for 10 or more. Info: 815-987-8800.

NGH Hypnotist Certification Program – Entrance Center, 5844 Elaine Drive, Rockford. 10 hours, 10 consecutive Sundays. Call for info: 815-397-5901.

Huntington’s Disease Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Anthony & St. Joseph rooms, 5666 E. State St. 4 p.m. Info: 815-282-0600.

Old Town Hall Museum – Davis Junction Scott Township Historical Society Old Town Hall Museum, 202 W. Pacific Ave.,one block south of Rt. 72, corner of Pacific and Elm. Davis Junction. 1-4 p.m.

Family Golf – Ingersoll Golf Course, 101 Daisyfield Road. Open practice 1-5 p.m. Admission: $1, ages 17 and younger, $3 ages 18 and older [$1 if accompanied by youth ages 17 and younger). Park District golf permit holders admitted free. Info: 815-987-8834.

Midwest Fire Academy – Rock Valley College Physical Education Center, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Blackhawk Firefighters Association presents the Academy, hosted by RVC, Rockford Fire Department, Cherry Valley Fire Protection District, Byron Fire Department, and Harlem-Roscoe Fire Protection District. Instructors will teach courses. Free.

Pine Tree Pistol Club – 5454 11th St., Rockford. 1-5 p.m. open to the public for general target shooting on 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month. Classes in firearms safety and most events open to the public. Info: www.pinetreepistolclub.com.

Good God Questions – Zion Lutheran Church, 925 Fifth Ave. 9:15 a.m. Every Sun. Free. Info: 815-964-4609.

Ethnic Quilts – Ethnic Heritage Museum, 1129 S. Main St. Showcases a variety of ethnic, southwest Rockford, and Civil War circa quilts. Thru Sept. 30. Sponsored by Northern Illinois Quilt Fest. Admission: $5/family, $3/ individual, $2/student. Info: 815-962-7402.

Huntington’s Disease Support Group – OSF St. Anthony Medical Center, St. Anthony & St. Joseph Rooms, 5666 E. State St. 2-4 p.m. Info: 815-282-0600.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Extra Sunday session begins Sept. 11, 2-4 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Monday, Sept. 19

Proclamation of Centennial Multi-cultural United Methodist Church Week – Rockford City Council. To celebrate their 175 years of ministry in the community.

Conversational English – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Bookworm Bakery & Café, 6685 E. State St. 6-8 p.m. Info: 815-965-7606.

Katie’s Choice Book Club Discussion – Katie’s Cup, 502 Seventh St. 7 p.m. Book: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks. Info: 815-962-4279.

Kids Club – Rockford Public Library, Lewis Lemon Branch, 1988 W. Jefferson St. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Ages 6-12. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Senior Computer Learning 2 (of 6 sessons) – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 1-3 p.m. Ages 55 and older. A beginning computer class. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Chocolate City Nightlife – Bar 3, 326 E. State St. 9 p.m. Every Mon. Info: 815-621-4319.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Info: 815-969-4069.

Rockford Ostomy Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, 5666 E. State St. 7:30 p.m. Info: 815-397-2514.

Point Man Ministries – Firstborn Ministries Church, 8213 N. Alpine Road. 6:30 p.m. Veterans meet for fellowship and prayer every Monday. Info: 815-742-1993.

Tuesday, Sept. 20

Farmers’ Market – Verdi Club, 782 N. Madison St. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Every Tuesday thru Sept. 27. Info: 815-968-8119.

“First and Third” Open Art Studio – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 Wyman St. 4-7 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

Edgar Cayce A.R.E Holistic & Spiritual Study Group – 1615 River Bluff Blvd. Every other Tues. 7-8:30 p.m. Info: 815-234-2394.

Coronado Theatre Tours by Land of Lincoln Theatre Organ Society – Coronado Theatre, 314 N. Main St. 7 p.m. See the Grand Barton Theatre Organ, atmospheric show, Van Matre–owner’s apartment circa 1927, dressing rooms. Cost: $7/person. Reservations required. Info: 815-968-2722, ext. 17.

Seniors Use Your E-mail No. 2 – Rockford Public Library, Main Library second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. Ages 55 and older. Second of a series. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Family Skate – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road, Loves Park. 8 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Adult Grief Support Group – Beloit Regional Hospice Office, 655 Third St., Suite 200, Beloit, Wis. 6-7:30 p.m. Info: 608-363-7421.

Kundalini Yoga – Lazy Dog Yoga Studio, 5428 Williams Drive, Roscoe. 7:30 a.m. Info: 970-485-0249.

Public Skating – Riverview Ice House, 324 N. Madison St. Info: 815-963-7465.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Info: 815-969-4069.

Family Story Hour – Rockford Public Library, Rock River Branch, 3128 11th St. 6:30-7:30 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

“Get Fit After 50 … Safely” – Rock Valley College, Physical Education Center, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Info: 815-921-3931.

Spectrum of Rockford LGBTQA – Harmony Center, 6625 N. Second St., Loves Park. Teen Drop-In, 4-6 p.m. Young Adult Meet & Greet, 5-7 p.m. Gay Men’s Group, 7-8:30 p.m. Transgender Group, 8:30-10 p.m. Cost/Info: 815-639-0312.

Sunset Storytime – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Children’s Area, 6685 E. State St. 6:30-7:15 p.m. Info: 815-965-7606.

Word 2010 – Session 2 – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 6-8 p.m. You must have taken the first session of Word 2010. Info: 815-965-7606.

From the Sept. 14-20, 2011, issue

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