Community Calendar: Week of Oct. 12-18, 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.

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. Now featuring: Peanuts… Naturally. A lighthearted look at nature with Charlie Brown, thru Jan. 8, 2012. $1/person for members; $10/person for public. Info: 815-963-6769.

Tinker Swiss Cottage – 411 Kent St. Tours 1, 2, 3 p.m., Tues.-Sun. 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.

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. 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. Special program Oct. 16: “The Secret Life of Sarah E?” The story of an American nurse, portrayed by Amy Nyman. 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.

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.

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.

R.I.P. Productions’ Halloween Horror – FearFest 2011, 6512 Manchester Road, South Beloit, Fri. and Sat. 7-11 p.m. Weekdays & Sundays, 7-10 p.m. Screamatorium and Fear Asylum, Belvidere Park District, 916 W. Lincoln Ave., Belvidere. Fri. and Sat., 7-11 p.m. Weekdays & Sundays, 7-10 p.m. Tickets at various area outlets, or online for Screamatorium and Fear Asylum only at www.trailofscreams.com. Info: 815-965-6772.

Reservations for Family Ball – Discovery Center Museum, Riverfront Museum Park, 711 N. Main St. Date: Oct. 15. 5:30-10 p.m. Fund-raiser for Discovery Center Auxiliary. Tickets: $50/adults, $25/children age 12 and younger. Reserve by noon, Oct. 12. Info: 815-972-2839.

Registration for Trip to Shedd Aquarium – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Oct. 17. Leave Byron at 10 a.m. from the Jarrett Center. All ages. Cost: $15/person or $20/couple. Register by Oct. 16. Info: 815-234-8535.

Registration for Trip to Cave in the Rock State Park – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Dates: Oct. 22-24. Depart Byron at 9 a.m. Meet at Jarrett Center. $275/room includes room in resort and transportation. Register by Oct. 12. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Provena St. Anne Center 25th Anniversary – 4405 Highcrest Road, Rockford. Date: Oct. 23. 2-4 p.m. Auxiliary needs new members. Dues: $5/year. Info: 815-282-0468.

Wednesday, Oct. 12

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.

Fall Lecture Series – Stephenson County Museum, 1440 S. Carroll Ave., Freeport. 7 p.m. Discussion of Structo Toys by one of Freeport’s leading collectors. Info: 815-232-8419.

Bushels of Apples – Rockford Public Library, Montague Branch, 1238 S. Winnebago St. 5-6 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

Community Foundation’s Annual Event – Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road. Noon. Topic: “Endowing Education, Creating Legacies for the Future.” Tickets: $40, available at Community Foundation of Northern Illinois, 946 N. Second St. or 815-962-2110, ext. 10. $20 from each ticket sold will benefit the endowed scholarship funds.

DigiPhoto – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 2-4 p.m. Ages 16 and older. Bring your camera with memory card, cables & power cord or charger and instruction booklet. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Daf Drum Lessons – Womanspace, New Dimensions Gallery, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. 11 a.m.-noon (level 1) and noon-1 p.m. (level 2). Cost: $40 members, $48 non-members. Info: 815-877-0118.

EarthMatters Discussion Group: Coal – Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Noon-1:15 p.m. Suggested donation: $5. Each guest this month will receive a free jar of local honey. Bring a sack lunch. Info: 815-877-0118.

Breastfeeding Class – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, 5666 E. State St. 7-9 p.m. Included in “Baby 101” and Baby Express classes. Info: 815-227-2695.

Hire Me! Session 2 – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 6-8 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Get help with your resume. 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: Scott Long & Mike Marvell & DJ – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. Info: 815-877-8007.

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

Book Adventure: The Calder Game – Womanspace Library, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Ages 9-13. Cost: $30 members, $35 non-members. Info: 815-877-0118.

Home School Skate and Play – Carlson Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 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.

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

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.

Kids Club – Rockford Public Library, Montague Branch, Connie Lane Room, 1238 S. Winnebago St..5-6 p.m. Ages 6-12. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

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.

Forest City Queen Family Fun Night Cruise – Riverview Park, 324 N. Madison St. 6-8 p.m. Adults (age 18 and older), $5.50 ($6 non-resident); youth (ages 5-17) $4.50 ($5 non-resident); children (age 4 and younger) free; groups $4 per person , ($4.50 non-resident). Various food prices. Info: 815-987-1685.

YA Anime/Manga Club – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Young Adult Zone, 215 N. Wyman St. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Ages 13-19. Info: 815-965-7606.

Thursday, Oct. 13

Planning Meeting for Money Smart Week – Whitehead Realtors, 839 N. Perryville Road. 10 a.m. Info: www.moneysmartweek.org.

Breast Cancer Risk Reduction Class – OSF Saint Anthony Center for Cancer Care, Library, 5666 E. State St. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free; class size is limited; registration is required. Info: 815-227-2618.

Brownie-Try-It: Senses – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. 6-8 p.m. Meet at Keller Center. Register by Oct. 10. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Leaves on the Wind – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Friends of RPL Meeting Room, 6685 E. State St. 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. All ages. (Enter thru side door.) Info: 815-965-7606.

Seminar on Veterans’ Benefits – P.A. Peterson Center for Health, 1311 Parkview Ave. 6:30 p.m. Sponsored by American Association for Wartime Veterans. Free. Info: 815-399-8832.

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.

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.

Senior DigiPhoto No. 1 – 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, cables & power cord or charger and instruction booklet. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Online Job Search – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 1-3 p.m. 6-8 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Info: 815-965-7606.

Unplugged Gamers Night – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Young Adult Zone, 215 N. Wyman St. 5-7 p.m. Ages 13-19. Play board games, trading card or classic card games. Info: 815-965-7606.

Foundations of Yoga – Womanspace Library, 3333 Marila Linden Drive. 5:30-6:45 p.m. Cost: $60 members, $72 non-members. Six-week class. Register by Oct. 11. Info: 815-877-0118.

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.

SOUNS for Infants – Rockford Public Library, East Branch Children’s Area, 6685 E. State St. 6-6:45 p.m. Ages younger than 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.

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

Yoga for Woman – Womanspace Library, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. 9:30-10:45 a.m. With Una Ryan. Cost: $40 or $12/class, members; $48 or $13/class, non-members. Info: 815-877-0118.

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.

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

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.

Teen ‘Scape – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 4-7 p.m. Ages 10-19. Info: 815-965-7606.

Clos Du Val Wine Dinner – Josef-Barbados, 6860 Spring Creek Road. 6 p.m. $65. Info/reservations: 815-877-WINE (9463).

“Our Scaly and Slimy Neighbors” – Midwest Museum of Natural History, 425 W. State St., Sycamore. Lecture by Dr. Richard King of NIU. 7-8 p.m.; doors open at 6. Cost: $5/person, members; $7/non-members. No registration needed. Info: 815-895-9777.

Film: Waiting for Superman: Documentary movie/discussion – Katie’s Cup, 502 Seventh St. 7 p.m. Presented by United for Our Children. Facilitators: Brad Roos, Zion Development, and Rodney Prunty, United Way of Rock River Valley. Free.

Friday, Oct. 14

Rockford City Market – 200 Water St. between State and Jefferson streets. Thru Oct. 21. 3-7 p.m. 25+ vendors. Live music by Ron E. Rawhoof & Matt Flamm w/special guest Helmuth Redschlage on keyboard, entertainment. Featuring Natural Land Institute and Rockford Park District. Info: 815-964-4388 or rockfordcitymarket.com.

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

Flu Vaccine Clinic – Keen Age Center, 2141 Henry Luckow Lane, Belvidere. 9-11 a.m. Info: 815-547-8590.

Jr. Girl Scouts Sky Search – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. 6-9 p.m. $5/person. Register by Oct. 12. Info: 815-8535, ext. 200.

After Hours Book Discussion: Broken – Rockford Public Library, Montague Branch, Connie Lane Room, 1238 S. Winnebago St. 7-9 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

Tinker Swiss Cottage Paranormal Tour – Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum 411 Kent St. 7-9:30 p.m. One of a series; special guest on each tour. Cost: $15/person; reservations preferred. Info: 815-964-2424.

Conversational English – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Bookworm Bakery & Café, 6685 E. State St. 6-8 p.m. Ages 18 and older. Info: 815-965-7606.

Hunter’s Moon Hike – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. 8-10 p.m. All ages. Meet at Weiskopf Observatory. Free. Register by Oct. 13. Info: 815-8535, ext. 200.

Dedication of Sculpture by John Verl McNamara – 201 Seventh St. 5:30 p.m. Metal sculpture titled “Peace Window” in west parking lot facing First Avenue. Public is invited.

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

Forest City Queen Friday Grab ‘N Go 30-Minute Lunch Cruise – Riverview Park, 324 N. Madison St. 11:30 a.m., 12:15 and 1 p.m. Adults (age 18 and older), $5.50 ($6 non-resident); youth (ages 5-17) $4.50 ($5 non-resident); children (age 4 and younger) free; groups $4 per person , ($4.50 non-resident). Various food prices. Info: 815-987-1685.

Forest City Queen Friday Night Fish Fry Cruise – Riverview Park, 324 N. Madison St. 6-8 p.m. Adults (age 18 and older), $5.50 ($6 non-resident); youth (ages 5-17) $4.50 ($5 non-resident); children (age 4 and younger) free; groups $4 per person , ($4.50 non-resident). Various food prices. Info: 815-987-1685.

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.

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. 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.

“Going to the Dogs” After Hours Dinner – Egg Harbor Cafe, Edgebrook Shopping Center, 1603 N. Alpine Road. 4-7 p.m. Bring your pooches! Special menu items for dogs. Fund-raiser to benefit PAWS Humane Society. Enjoy dinner and meet some adoptable animals from PAWS. Patio seating available for dogs and their owners. Info: 815-299-7297.

Saturday, Oct. 15

Oakdale in October – Oakdale Nature Preserve, 4433 S. Cranes Grove Road, Freeport. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 30+ local exhibitors. Artists and crafters offer handmade aprons, hats, scarves, paintings, wood carvings, garden benches, pottery, jewelry. Baked goods. Wagon rides, build a birdhouse, make a scarecrow. Breakfast served 9 a.m.-noon; $6 adults, $5 ages 5-11, free for kids 4 and younger. Info: 815-235-6114.

Harvest Fest – Boone County Conservation District, 603 N. Appleton Road, Belvidere. 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Beginning at Belvidere Park, continuing at Conservation District. Vendors, pumpkins, sunflowers, music, hay rides, singing around the campfire. Benefit for Riverfront Development Committee. Info: 815-547-7935.

Pumpkin Giveaway & Food Drive – Amazing Grace Lutheran Church, Prairie Hill & Willowbrook Roads, South Beloit. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Benefit for Rockton Food Pantry. Visitors bringing two or more non-perishable food items can select a free pumpkin. Local artist Dan Wuthrich will be on hand to assist children in painting their pumpkins. Info: 815-624-8840.

Candy Cane Bazaar, Bake Sale & Luncheon – St. Anskar Episcopal Church, 4801 Spring Creek Road. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Crafters and artists. Light lunch served. Door prizes. Free.

Budgeting & Credit: Things You Need to Know – Rock Valley Valley Credit Union, 11280 Forest Hills Road, Machesney Park. 10-11:30 a.m. Hosted by Rockford Area Chapter of Credit Unions. Free. RSVPs suggested but not required. Info: 815-633-5788.

Tender Loving Crafts Sale – Christ United Methodist Church, 4509 Highcrest Road (across Alpine Road from Holy Family Church). 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Crafts, BBQ lunch and homemade pies. Info: 815-399-5210.

Girl Scout Alumnae Day Camp – Camp McCormick, Stillman Valley. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. “Camp-style” lunch, arts and crafts, sing-along, outdoor recreation. $10 registration fee includes all activities & refreshments. Register at http://girlscoutsni.org/alumnae.html or call 800-242-5591, ext. 7210, or at any Girl Scout Center.

Small Wind Generators for Home-owners – Illiniois Renewable Energy Association, 1230 E. Honey Creek Road, Oregon, Ill. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Lecture, discussion and hands-on experience. Free-will donations. Advance registration required. Info: 815-732-7332 or sonia@essex1.com.

Lower Sugar River Watershed Association Grant Work Session & Dairy Operation Tour – Brodhead Public Library, 1207 25th St., Brodhead, Wis. 9 a.m.-noon. Bring your own coffee mug or water bottle. Info: www.lsrwa.org.

170th Anniversary Winnebago County Fair & Cattle Show – Ingersoll Centennial Park, 315 S. First St., Rockford. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Baby Express – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, Foundation Room, 5666 E. State St. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $75 per couple. Info: 815-227-2695.

Free Community Shred Day – MembersAlliance Credit Union, 2a550 S. Alpine Road. 9 a.m.-noon. Maximum limit of 100 lbs. or two boxes per car. Info: 815-226-2260.

Loctoberfest – Lockwood Park, 5209 Safford Road. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit Pumpkin Land, the Haunted Barn and more. Free admission; fees for some activities. Pony ring/hay rides, $2; trail rides, $22 ($24 non-resident); Children’s Farm visits, free. Info: 815-987-8800.

Douglas Nolan Book Signing Event – Canterbury Books & Tours, 1662 N. Alpine Road. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Author will sign copies of his children’s book, The Cider House Bears.

Advanced Couponing – 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.

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

Author visit: James Kennedy – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Auditorium, 215 N. Wyman St. 3-4 p.m. All ages. Children’s book author will do readings and share some of his adventures in Japan. Info: 815-965-7606.

Nature Rocks Family Nature Club: Fall Colors– Magnolia, Bluff County Park outside Evansville, Wis. Hosted by Welty Environmental Center and Rock County Parks.10-11:30 a.m. Cost: $10/family. Register by Oct. 10. Info: 608-361-1377 or e-mail at info@weltycenter.org.

Singles Together Across Rockford (STAR) – Singles Dance, 7-10 p.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 3300 Rural St. Live music by Missing Links. Volleyball on second and fourth Saturdays of each month. Info: 815-962-4279.

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 under), free. Groups (per individual) $4 ($4.50 non-resident). Advance registration required for 10 or more. Info: 815-987-8800.

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.

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, 2-4 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Forest City Queen Saturday Evening Sunset Dinner Cruise – Riverview Park, 324 N. Madison St. 6-8 p.m. Adults (age 18 and older), $5.50 ($6 non-resident); youth (ages 5-17) $4.50 ($5 non-resident); children (age 4 and younger) free; groups $4 per person , ($4.50 non-resident). Various food prices. Info: 815-987-1685.

Past Life Regression Workshop – enTrance Center, 5844 Elaine Drive. 1-5 p.m. 4 CEUs. $50. Experience one of your past lives again. Info: 815-397-5901.

Family Ball – Discovery Center Museum, Riverfront Museum Park, 711 N. Main St. 5:30-10 p.m. Fund-raiser for Discovery Center Auxiliary. Tickets: $50/adults, $25/children age 12 and younger. Reservation deadline: Noon, Oct. 12. Info: 815-972-2839.

Sunday, Oct. 16

25th Annual CROP Hunger Walk – Riverfront Museum Park, 711 N. Main St. Register at 1 p.m., step off at 2 p.m. Benefits hunger relief through Church World Service. More than 300 sponsored walkers who raise pledges. Info: 815-540-3703 or davidj6226@aol.com.

Cuts for Mutts Benefit – Ab Fab Salon and Spa, 5643 E. State St., Suite 3. Noon-5 p.m. To benefit Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary. Patrons who bring specialty items for Noah’s Ark will receive discounted services. Haircuts and seated chair massages: $15; eyebrow shaping, mini manicures, pet photos and nail trim, $10. Info: 815-708-8557.

“The Secret Life of Sarah E?”– Ethnic Heritage Museum, 1129 S. Main St. The story of an American nurse during the Civil War, portrayed by Amy Nyman. Admission $3 individual, $5 family. Info: 815-962-7402.

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.

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.

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.

Breast Cancer Benefit – Hope and Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park. 1 p.m. Bag tournament. $25 entry fee per team. 10 teams of two people each. Info: 815-633-2552.

Monday, Oct. 17

Citizens Utility Board Information Session – Boone County Council on Aging, Keen Age Center, 2141 Henry Luckow Lane, Belvidere. 1 p.m. Hosted by State Sen. Christine Johnson (R-Shabbona). Free. Attendees are encouraged to bring a copy of their phone bill to assist CUB staff in finding ways to lower their bills.

A.O. Smith’s High Efficiency Revolution Tour – Connor Company, 3537 Merchandise Drive, Rockford. 1 p.m. and 4-9 p.m. Visit distributor locations where contractors, plumbers, specifying engineers, builders and consumers may vist the MMV and learn how A. O. Smith’s innovative new line is changing the water heating industry; featuring NEXT Hybrid. Info: www.hotwater.com/MMV.

Infant/Toddler CPR Class – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, 5666 E. State St. 7-9 p.m. Fee: $12.50/person or free to those who attend “Baby 101” or Baby Express. Info: 815-227-2695.

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.

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.

Excel 2010 – Help – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 6-8 p.m. Ages 13 and up. Prerequisite: Must have taken MS Word 1 & 2 ord their equivalent. Info: 815-965-7606.

Tuesday, Oct. 18

2012 – Medicare and You – Ken-Rock Community Center, 3218 11th St. 2 and 5:30 p.m. Info for Medicare-eligible folks in Winnebago, Boone and Stephenson counties. Free, but reserve your space. Info: 815-398-8864.

Stained Glass 101 – Rockford Public Library, Rock River Branch, 3128 11th St. 4-5:30 p.m. Ages 12-19. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Squash Dinner at Abreo – Abreo, 515 E. State St. 5-9 p.m. Open seating. Cost: $40/person (excluding tax & gratuity). Reserve between 5-9 p.m. RSVP: 815-968-9463.

A.O. Smith’s High Efficiency Revolution Tour – First Supply, 10736 N. Second St., Machesney Park. 1 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. Visit distributor locations where contractors, plumbers, specifying engineers, builders and consumers may vist the MMV and learn how A. O. Smith’s innovative new line is changing the water heating industry; featuring NEXT Hybrid. Info: www.hotwater.com/MMV.

“First and Third” Open Art Studio – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, Little Theatre, 215 N. 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.

Boone County Habitat for Humanity Meeting – CrownPoint Community Center, Immanuel Lutheran Church, 925 Belvidere Road, Belvidere. 6:30 p.m. Two three-year positions open.

Senior Computer Learning – Rockford Public Library, Main Library 2nd Floor Computer Room, 215 N. Wyman St. 3-5 p.m. Ages 55 and older. Beginning computer class for the true beginner. Class meets weekly for 6 weeks. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Kids Club – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 4-5 p.m. Ages 6-12. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

QuickBooks, Sessions 1-3 – Rockford Public Library , East Branch Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. Tues-Thurs. 6-8 p.m. Ages 16 and older. Learn the basics of QuickBooks 2011. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Conversational Spanish – Rockford Public Library , East Branch Bookworm Bakery & Cafe, 6685 E. State St. 6-8 p.m. Ages 18 and older. Info: 815-965-7606.

Public Tour of Coronado PAC – 314 N. Main St. 7 p.m. $7/person. Must reserve ahead of time. Info: www.coronadopac.org.

Teen Wired Cafe – Rockford Public Library , East Branch Bookworm Bakery & Cafe, 6685 E. State St.5-7:30 p.m. Ages 10-19. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

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

A Night to Celebrate Women in Healthcare: The Role and Influences of Women in Healthcare Professions – Univ. of Illinois School of Medicine Auditorium, 1601 Parkview Ave. 7 p.m. Hosted by Univ. of Illinois School of Medicine. Free. Info: 815-395-5920.

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.

“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.

Please have your free listing in to The Rock River Times the Thursday preceding our Wednesday publication. Call (815) 964-9767 to report any inaccuracies in these calendars.

From the Oct. 12-18, 2011, issue