Community Calendar: Week of Oct. 26-Nov. 1, 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. Exhibiting thru April 29, 2012: “Ice Age Mammals.” Admission: $8 adults, $7 children 3-17, free for children younger than 3 and members; additional fee for travaling exhibits. 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. 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. 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, 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 Mushroom Dinner at Abreo – Abreo, 515 E. State St. Date: Nov. 1. 5-9 p.m. Four courses at $40/person (excluding tax & gratuity]. RSVP: 815-968-9463.

Registration for “The State of Illinois Charter Schools” – Katie’s Cup, 502 Seventh St. Date: Nov. 3, 11:45 a.m. lunch, 4 p.m. program. Lunch and program, $12; program only, $5. Refreshments served; donations accepted. Info: RALMmail@aol.com or 815-962-4279.

Registration for Foot Reflexology Classes – Healthy Balance Reflexology Clinic, 6053 Fincham Drive, Rockford. Dates: Nov. 3-Dec. 15, 6-8 p.m. Cost: $150 for six weeks, or $35 per class. Info: 815-519-4977.

Registration for “A Toast to Remember Wine Tasting Benefit” – Franchesco’s, 7128 Spring Creek Road. Date: Nov. 3, 5-7:30 p.m. Cost: $15/person advance, $20 at door. Benefit for Alzheimer’s Association. Info: Provena Cor Mariae Center, 815-877-7416.

Registration for 15th Annual Food for Thought Workshop – Oakdale Nature Preserve, Freeport. Date: Saturday, Nov. 5. 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Learn about locally-produced food and sustainable agriculture. $20/person for Northwest Illinois Audubon Society members, $25 non-members. Register by Oct. 28. Info: 815-947-2720 or 815-938-3204 or dldufford@dishmail.net.

Registration for Home School Class: On Exhibit – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Nov. 7. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Ages 8-14. Meet at Jarrett Center. Learn how museum exhibits are made. Cost: $10. Register by Nov. 2. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for Home School Class: Books, Books, Books – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Nov. 7. 1-4 p.m. Ages 8-14. Meet at Jarrett Center. Cost: $10/person. Register by Nov. 2. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for Astronomy: Fall Constellations – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. Road. Date: Nov. 4. 8-10 p.m. All ages. Meet at Weiskopf Observatory. Free. Register by Nov. 3. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for “An Evening With Carl Kasell” – NIU’s Barsema Alumni & Visitors Center, 231 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb. Date: Nov. 4. 7 p.m. Celebrating WNIJ’s 20th anniversary with NPR news icon Carl Kasell. 7 p.m. social hour, 8 p.m. program. Cost: $30/person, $50/couple. Info: 815-753-9000.

Calling Former Students of Gunsolas Grade School – Reunion planned for Nov. 8, 2-4 p.m. at 5512 35th St., Rockford. Bring pictures for display and stories to share. Call Vivian Johnson at 815-87402659.

Wednesday, Oct. 26

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. Last time this season!

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.

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.

Master’s of Science Information Session – Saint Anthony College of Nursing, 5658 E. State St. 3-6 p.m. Info on various specialty tracks and application process. Info: 815-395-5476.

Spaghetti Dinner 14 – The 4 Seasons Banquet Rooms, 1100 W. Galena Ave., Freeport. 4:30-7:30 p.m. Cost: Adults, $6; children 10 and younger, $3. Carry-outs available. Tickets also available at the door. Benefit for Human Services Fund of Freeport. Info: 815-235-8012.

Joint Replacement Surgery: Ask the Experts – SwedishAmerican Hospital Conference Center, 1401 E. State St. 6-8 p.m. Admission free, but seating is limited. Reserve a space by calling 815-968-2500. Enter thru Heart Hospital entrance, off Charles Street. Valet parking available.

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.

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.

Winnebago County Animal Services Public Awareness Session: Feline Facts & Myths – Volunteer Auxiliary at 4517 N. Main St. 6-7:30 p.m. Learn about multiple cat households, litter box issues, declawing, spaying/neutering. Space is limited. Reserve at 815-319-4106 or 815-319-4100.

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

Introduction to Sacred Sound – Womanspace, Fountain View Room, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tibetan singing bowls offer profound healing vibrations. Cost: $20 members, $25 non-members. Info: 815-877-0118.

Free Blood Pressure Screening – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, 5666 E. State St. 9-11 a.m. No registration required. Info: 815-395-5064.

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 admission, $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.

To Write Love on Her Arms – Rockford College, 5050 E. State St. 6:30-7 p.m. Nonprofit movement to help people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide. Speaker: Jamie Tworkowski. Free. Info: www.twloha.com.

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.

“Woman to Woman” Breast Cancer Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, 5666 E. State St. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Info: 815-227-2629.

Thursday, Oct. 27

“Made in America: Insects” – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. 4-6 p.m. All ages. Meet at Jarrett Center. Register by Oct. 26. Info: 815- 234-8535, ext. 200.

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.

Candle Lighting Memorial Service – Our Lady of the Assumption Church, 2222 Shopiere Road, Beloit, Wis. 6:30 p.m. To honor patients and families served by Beloit Regional Hospice. 2011 memorial quilt will be on display after the service. Info: 608-363-7421.

Love Has No Color Fund-raiser for Native American Children – Hoffman House, 7550 E. State St. 5:30-9 p.m. Sponsored by local chiropractors to benefit children on Fort Peck Reservation, Montana. Silent auction, IceHogs autographs, program at 7, cash bar, music, Indian artifacts to purchase. Info: 815-623-5460 or 815-623-8100.

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.

Fall Lecture Series: Philip B. Dedrick – Freeport Public Library, 1440 S. Carroll Ave., Freeport. 7 p.m. Artist Philip Dedrick made many contributions to the Freeport Art Museum. Sponsored by Stephenson Country Museum and Freeport Public Library. Free. Info: 815-232-8419.

Foundations of Yoga – Womanspace Library, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. 5:30-6:45 p.m. Cost: $60 members, $72 non-members. Six-week class. 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.

Leaves on the Wind – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 12-12:45 p.m. All ages. 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 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.

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.

International Student Visit Day – Rockford College Burpee Center, 5050 E. State St. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Visit with admission representatives, financial aid staff. Complimentary lunch. Reserve at: 815-226-4050 or 800-892-2984.

Rockford Housing Authority Board of Commissioners Meeting – Rockford Housing Authority, 223 S. Winnebago St. 4 p.m.

Parks Chamber Annual Meeting – Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park. Speaker Bill Rancic. Social time, 5:30 p.m., dinner at 6, program to follow. Music by Jodi Beach Trio. Register at 815-633-3999.

A Celebration of Fair Trade – JustGoods, 201 Seventh St. 7 p.m. Special program by Robert S. Chase, president/CEO of SERRV International. Chase was founder and chairman of Fox Valley Interfaith Refugee Resettlement Committee. Meet the people who run the store and learn about fair trade; store will be open. Info: 815-964-7111.

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.

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.

“Behind the Screams” Lights on Tour – Screamatorium Haunted House & South Beloit Haunted Barn, 6512 Manchester Road, South Beloit. 7-9:30 p.m. Free, open to public.

Friday, Oct. 28

Rockford Fire Department Promotion Ceremony – NIU Rockford Auditorium, 8500 E. State St. 3:30 p.m. Open to the public.

Miller Upton Forum keynote lecture by Professor Joel Mokyr – Beloit College, Center for the Sciences Atrium, 700 College St., Beloit, Wis. 7 p.m. Topic: “Why is the World in 2011 Richer than ever before? Mysteries of Economic Growth.” Info: www.beloit.edu/arts.

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

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.

Boo Bash – Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road. 9 p.m. Info: 815-398-6411.

Tinker Swiss Cottage Paranornal 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.

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.

Free Scary Face Pancakes for Kids at IHOP – All participating IHOP restaurants. 7 a.m.-10 p.m. “Design-your-own” Scary Face Pancake includes an oversized signature buttermilk pancake with whipped topping mouth and strawberry nose, served with two mini Oreo cookies & candy corn on the side. Halloween hotcake!

Terror at the Mill Spook House – Corner of South Main & Meadow streets, Belvidere. 7-10:30 p.m. Cost: $10. Part of the proceeds benefit Habitat for Humanity of Boone County. Info: 815-761-4200.

Saturday, Oct. 29

Craft & Bake Sale – Christian Life Retirement Center, 250 Bienterra Trail, Rockford. 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Enjoy a fresh cinnamon roll and coffee.

Blessing Rockford New Hope Apartment Building – 1921 Charles St. 9 a.m. Volunteer work crew from Kingswood United Methodist Church will clean up and rehab the apartment house. Info: 815-997-2752.

Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Grand Opening – 1354 N. Second St., Rockford. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Gardens, greenhouse, pumpkin carving, Rockford Wind Ensemble, puppet shows, cornhusk dolls, activities. Admission: $6 Rockford Park District/Winnebago Co. residents, $8 non-residents, children age 4 and younger, free. Info: 815-987-1689.

Beginning Solar Electric Class – Illinois Renewable Energy Association, 1230 E. Honey Creek Road, Oregon, Ill. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Info: 815-732-7332 or sonia@essex1.com.

Happy Holidays Craft Show & Expo – St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1415 10th Ave., Rochelle. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Approx. 30 vendors featuring handmade and specialty items. Info: 815-751-8233.

2011 Symphony of Homes – Sponsored by Beloit Janesville Symphony. Five beautiful homes will be open for public viewing from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Live music, gift items and bakery goods available.Tickets: $15 in advance, $20 on day of the house walk. Available at Visit Beloit, JPAC in Janesville, and Edward Jones Financials in Main Street Square in Roscoe. Also from Friends of the Beloit Janesville Symphony members.

Gasps and Giggles: Halloween Stories – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 11-11:45 a.m. All ages. Stories and songs. Info: 815-965-7606.

Personal Travel Altars – Womanspace, New Dimensions Studio, 3333 Mari Linden Drive. 9 a.m.-noon. Create your own design for a portable altar. Cost: $20 members, $25 non-members. Register by Oct. 27. Info: 815-877-0118.

Sixth Annual Festival of Fantasy – Edgebrook Shopping Center, 1639 N. Alpine Road. 12:30-3:30 p.m. Children ages infant to 12 are eligible. Treat bags handed out. Grand prize of an age- and gender-appropriate Trek 20 bicycle for best costume. Registration from 12:30-1 p.m. Dragon Mania and Parade, 1-1:30 p.m. Costume judging and prizes, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Free: Info: 815-226-0212.

Scary (and Not-So-Scary) Tales – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Auditorium, 215 N. Wyman St. 3-4:30 p.m. All ages. Tingly tales, creepy craft, spooky film. Info: 815-965-7606.

Feast of the New Waxing Moon – Welty Environmental Center, Beckman Mill County Park, 11450 S. County Road H, Beloit, Wis. 4-8 p.m. All ages welcome. Suggested donation: $10/family, $5/individual. Info: 608-361-1377 or e-mail info@weltycenter.org.

Alpha Club Potluck – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, Foundation Room, 5666 E. State St. 6-9 p.m. Gentlemen bring drinks or snacks; ladies bring a dish to pass to serve 6-8 people. Info: 815-633-9530.

Spooky Science – Discovery Center Museum, Riverfront Park, 711 N. Main St. 6-9 p.m. Creepy craft projects for kids. Admission: $8/person, general public; $4 /person members. Includes all related activities as well as the Peanuts … Naturally exhibit. Info: 815-963-6769.

Fossil Hunt – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Oct. 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Meet at Stone Quarry Park. Register by Oct. 26. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Third Annual 9-Pin Bowling Benefit for Barbara Olson Center of Hope – Park Lanes, 5318 N. Second St., Loves Park. 12:30-4:30 p.m. Cost: $16 per bowler, includes 3 games of bowling, shoe rental, door prizes, pizza samples, 50/50 and sports prize raffles and desserts. Kids’ activity room. Come dressed for the Best Halloween Costume contest. Info: 815-871-2907.

Fitness Certificate Courses – Rock Valley College, Physical Education Center, 3301 N. Mulford Road. “Nutritional Concepts for Fitness Professionals,” 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Cost: $129. “Group Fitness Instructor Certification,” 9 a.m.-noon, Saturdays. Cost: $530. Info: 815-921-3900.

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.

Locktoberfest – Lockwood Park Trailside Equestrian Center, 5209 Safford Road. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit Pumpkin Land, the Haunted Barn and more. Featuring Scarecrow Days. 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.

Costume Party Days – Lockwood Park Trailside Equestrian Center, 5209 Safford Road. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit the Children’s Farm Barn, ride a pony (kids age 7 and younger), get your face painted. Food and beverages available. Info: 815-987-8800.

Comedy: Exit 99 – Paddock Hall, 1127 N. Seventh St., Rochelle. 7 p.m. $5.

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.

Burpee Explorers: Mammoths and Mastodons – Busting Myths – Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Ages 6-10, must be accompanied by adult. Pre-registration and payment required. Visit traveling exhibit “Ice Age Mammals” and discover how these giants were alike and how they were different. Cost: $15 per child members; $20 per child non-members. Info: 815-965-3433.

Japanese Flower Arranging & Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony – Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road. 10:30 a.m. & 1 p.m. Cost: $15/person. Reservations required. Info: 815-229-9390.

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

Halloween at Krape Park – 1799 S. Park Blvd., Freeport. 3-5 p.m. Go on the Trick-or-Treat Trail, beginning at the carousel. Free to attend. Hayrides, $2/person. See the Haunted Bandshell (for 10 yrs. and younger–not too scary). Cost: $1/person.

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

Supper and Show: A View From the Pew – Grace United Methodist Church, 3555 McFarland Road. 5 p.m. Old-time comedy with music. Tickets: $10 adults, $5 children, includes both supper and show. Info: 815-670-5182.

Ghost Tours – Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St. Tickets: $10/person, advanced reservations required. Info: 815-968-2722.

Haunted Theater – Starlight Theater, Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Tickets: $8/person or $25/family of no more than six; children in costume receive a Specter’s Treat. Info: 815-921-2160.

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.

Terror at the Mill Spook House – Corner of South Main & Meadow streets, Belvidere. 7-10:30 p.m. Cost: $10. Part of the proceeds benefit Habitat for Humanity of Boone County. Info: 815-761-4200.

Hockey: Rockford IceHogs vs. Peoria Rivermen – BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St. 7 p.m. VIP (formerly Glass Level): $27; Lower Level Sidelines: $23; Lower Level Endzone: $20; Upper Level Sideline: $17; Upper Level Endzone: $14; Terrace Level: $8. Info: 815-968-5222.

Rockford Rage Women’s Roller Derby: Heroes vs. Villains – Indoor Sports Center, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park. $10 in advance, $15 at the door; group rates for 10 or more available in advance. Info: 815-885-1135.

Women’s Fifth Saturday Workshop Fellowship Retreat: ’“It’s ALL In Me!“ – Freeport Public Library, 100 E. Douglas St., Freeport. 1-3 p.m. $10 donation. With WAY founder Dianna Cole and “Word of Wisdom” on Finances by Dr. Louise D. Wade. Jewelry items available. Info: 815-914-1487 or MsCSOGN@aol.com.

Sunday, Oct. 30

Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Grand Opening – 1354 N. Second St., Rockford. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Gardens, greenhouse, pumpkin carving, storytelling, cornhusk dolls, activities. Admission: $6 Rockford Park District/Winnebago Co. residents, $8 non-residents, children age 4 and younger, free. Info: 815-987-1689.

Locktoberfest – Lockwood Park Trailside Equestrian Center, 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.

Author William Kringel Book Signing – Life Church, 5910 Elevator Road, Roscoe. 9:30 a.m. Author shares real-life experiences from his book, Is Your God Real? A Rational Look at God.

Halloween on the Prairie – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. 12-4 p.m. All ages, free. Haunted hayrides, games, food, snake wrangler, costume contest at 2 p.m., egg hunt at 3. Co-sponsored by Byron Park District. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Eat, Drink and Dance to End Alzheimer’s – Dixon Elks Lodge No. 779, 1279 Franklin Grove Road, Dixon. Noon-7 p.m. Tickets: $10/person or 3 for $20, includes meal and drink. Seven chances to win 4 tickets to any Chicago game of your choice: Cubs, White Sox, WNBA Sky, Bulls, Wolves, Blackhawks or Fire. Need not be present to win. 3 Bands: Candid Country, Burn N’ Bush, Eileen Quest. Kids 10 and younger in Halloween costumes free, kids 5 and younger, free. Info: 815-285-1100.

Farmers’ Market – Cherry Valley Landscape Center, 7711 Newburg Road. Every Sunday in October, 11a.m.-3 p.m. Local produce, apples, honey, baked goods. Vendors for jewelry, woodcrafts, etc. Info: 815-977-5268.

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.

Japanese Flower Arranging & Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony – Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road. 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. Cost: $15/person. Reservations required. Info: 815-229-9390.

Lanes of Treats – Forest Hills Lanes, 7742 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park. 1-5 p.m. Trick-or-treat among the bowling lanes. Parents will accompany children. Proceeds go to “BVL” Bowling Veterans League. Info: 815-645-3900.

Clean Up Rock Cut – Rock Cut State Park. Noon-4 p.m. Sponsored by Blackhawk Sierra Club and Natural Land Institute. Volunteers should bring gloves & plastic shopping bags for trash. Meet at Concessions parking lot to check in. Instructions on where to go will be provided. Check-in location will be set up thru 3 p.m. for those who start after noon. Info: 815-289-1102.

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.

Terror at the Mill Spook House – corner of South Main & Meadow streets, Belvidere. 7-10:30 p.m. Cost: $10. Part of the proceeds benefit Habitat for Humanity of Boone County. Info: 815-761-4200.

Monday, Oct. 31

City of Rockford Trick-or-Treat Hours – 5:30-7:30 p.m. Outside lights should be left on. Trick-or-treaters are urged to wear light clothing or reflective tape. Motorists should use caution; drive slowly and carefully.

Halloween at Alden Debes – Alden Debes Rehabilitation & Health Care Center, 550 S. Mulford Drive. 3-5 p.m. Cookie decorating, cake walk, mummy wrap, face painting, spider ring toss, pumpkin painting. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free and open to public. Info: 815-484-1002.

Halloween at Alden Park Strathmoor & Health Care Center – 5668 Strathmoor Drive. 3-5 p.m. Trick-or-treating, costume contest, face painting, games, snacks, entertainment. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free and open to the public. Info: 815-229-5200.

Trunk or Treat – Gateway Community Church, 8545 N. Alpine Road, Machesney Park. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Trick-or-treating among the cars in the parking lot. Cars are decorated for Halloween; drivers will give out treats.

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.

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.

Terror at the Mill Spook House – corner of South Main & Meadow streets, Belvidere. 5-7 p.m. Cost: $10. This day only, kids younger than 10 get in free and may go trick-or-treating in the Spook House. Part of the proceeds benefit Habitat for Humanity of Boone County. Info: 815-761-4200.

Tuesday, Nov. 1

Mushroom Dinner at Abreo – Abreo, 515 E. State St. 5-9 p.m. Four courses at $40/person (excluding tax & gratuity]. RSVP: 815-968-9463.

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.

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, thru Nov. 15. 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.

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.

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

Friends of Growth Membership Meeting – Sam’s Ristorante, 1031 Har-lem Road, Loves Park. 6 p.m. Planning for holidays, sign-ups for helping and donation of cookies, discussing possibility of an endowment. RSVP: prolixian@comcast.net.

Hockey: Rockford IceHogs vs. Texas Stars – BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St. 7 p.m. VIP (formerly Glass Level): $27; Lower Level Sidelines: $23; Lower Level Endzone: $20; Upper Level Sideline: $17; Upper Level Endzone: $14; Terrace Level: $8. Info: 815-968-5222.

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. 26-Nov. 1, 2011, issue