Community Calendar: Week of Dec. 7-13, 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 traveling 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. Now: Charlie Brown and Charles Schulz: An Appreciation of Peanuts. $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. Closed Sundays and Mondays until April. 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.

Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens – 1354 N. Second St. Open Tues.-Sat. (closed Mon.): hours vary, check website or call. Admission: $6 resident, $8 non-resident, free for children 4 and younger. Water features, seating areas and sculptures, all in a tropical plant setting. Changing seasonal floral displays, special events, educational programs, workshops, lecture series. Rentals of meeting/event room available. Gift shop. Info: www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/ncg or 815-987-8858.

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. 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.

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.

Registration for Parents’ Day Out–The Spiderwick Chronicles – Welty Environmental Center at Beckman Mill County Park, 8606 W. County Rd. H, Beloit, Wis. Date: Dec. 10. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Ages 6-12 years. Explore the forest for hidden living things. Cost: $15 per FWEC member, $20 non-member. Register by Dec. 7. Info: 608-361-1377 or info@weltycenter.org.

Registration for DNR Hunter Education Course – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Dates: Dec. 12, 14, 16. 6-9 p.m. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for Winter Hike – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Dec. 16, 5-7 p.m. Meet at Jarrett Center. All ages. Register by Dec. 13. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for “A Journey to Bethlehem” – Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1045 Belvidere Road, Belvidere. 45-minute tour given on three days: Dec. 16, 6:30-9 p.m.; Dec. 17, 3-8 p.m.; Dec. 18, 2-6 p.m. Reserve now until Dec . 14. Info: 815-544-8058, ext. 325.

Festival of Trees – Midwest Museum of Natural History, 425 W. State St., Sycamore. Display of more than 20 trees thru December. Live animal presentations, 10:30-11 a.m. and tours at 2 p.m. Info: 815-895-9777.

Dental Group of Rockford, 3065 N. Perryville Road, will accept donations for Toys for Tots now thru Dec. 16.

Do you need help? Gamblers Anonymous meets at 6 p.m. every Monday. Call Roger at 815-601-8894.

Wednesday, Dec. 7

MELD Gift Wrapping – Sears at CherryVale Mall, main level. Make a donation, and MELD volunteers will wrap your gifts, every Wednesday thru Dec. 21.

Young Hearts for Life Cardiac Screening – SwedishAmerican Heart Hospital, 1401 E. State St. 6-7:30 p.m. Free EKG screenings for high school students. Must be enrolled in a Boone or Winnebago County high school. Info: 815-966-2066.

World in Motion Program/Jet Toy Experiment: Designing Experiments – Kishwaukee Elementary School, 526 Catlin St. 9-11 a.m. Sessions on science. Volunteer engineers provide examples of how math and science lessons can be applied outside the classroom.

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.

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

Computer Skills for the Workplace Workshop – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St.12 -8 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Two-day workshop. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Lunch and Learn: Feldenkrais – Awareness Through Movement – Womanspace, Fountain View Room, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Noon-1 p.m. Cost: $12 (members $10). Register by Dec. 5. 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.

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

Law and Government Exploring Program – Memorial Hall, 211 N. Main St. 7 p.m. Open House. Students can learn about careers in law and government thru hands-on activities led by attorneys. RSVP: 815-397-0210, ext. 7507.

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.

Turning 65–Get the Facts – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 1-3 p.m. Ages 50 and older. Social Security, original Medicare Parts A and B, Supplemental Insurance and Medicare Parts C and D. Eligibility, enrollment, types of benefits, online resources. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Rockford Public Schools Community Input Meeting – Beyer Elementary School Gym, 333 15th Ave. 6-7 p.m. Info: FMP@rps205.com.

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

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.

Online Job Search – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 6-8 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Prerequisite: familiarity with Internet Explorer. Registration is not required. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

Rockford Public Schools Community Input Meeting – Auburn High School Library, 5110 Auburn St. 6-7 p.m.

The Story of Dorothy Day–Warrior for Peace & Champion of the Poor – Womanspace, Fountain View Room 3333 Maria Linden Drive. 7-8:30 p.m. Cost: $12 (members $10). Video story of the life of a 1920’s suffragette and peace activist. Info: 815-877-0118.

Young Adult Advisory Board Meetin g– Rockford Public Library, Main Library, Young Adult Zone, 215 N. Wyman St. 6-7 p.m. Ages 13-19. How can the library better serve teens? To apply, see Kathi Kresol in Youth Services, call 815-965-7606, ext. 682 or e-mail kkresol@rockfordpubliclibrary.org.

Thursday, Dec. 8

Christmas in Hawaii – Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road. Noon-1:30 p.m. Betsy Puig from Polynesian Dance Group will demonstrate the hula and share some Polynesian traditions. Cost: $13.50 includes lunch. Reserve at 815-222-3015 or rewcreservations@aol.com.

Children’s Holiday Shoppe – The MarketPlace, 5846 E. State St. 3 - 7 p.m. Affordable shopping for parents, sponsored by Children’s Home & Aid, Tues., Thurs. & Sat. thru Dec. 17. Info: 815-962-1043.

Special Educaton Workshop: a focus on Assessments & Evaluations – Freeport Public Library, 100 E. Douglas St. 5-7 p.m. Hosted by RAMP and the Parent Mentor Project with Freeport School District 145. Open to all. Two CPDUs will be offered, and Certificates of Completion are available. RSVP: 815-233-1128.

Postal Service Public Meeting on Mail Processing Study – Best Western Clock Tower Resort & Conference Center, 7801 E. State St. 7 p.m. Open to the public.

Rockford Area Libertarians Meeting – Villa Di Roma,1620 Harrison Ave. at 11th St. 7 p.m. Come early if you would like to order food. Info: 815-963-1962.

Waxing Moon Hike – Welty Environmental Center, Beckman Mill County Park, 11450 S. County Road H, Beloit, Wis. 6 p.m. Cost: donations accepted. Info: 608-361-1377.

“12 Hours of Salvation Toy Drive” – Lou Bachrodt Auto Mall, 5695 E. State St. 7 a.m.-7 p.m. In partnership with First Northern Credit Union and the Salvation Army. New and unwrapped toys accepted. Local choral groups will sing Christmas carols, Santa Claus will give out candy canes. Info: 815-332-3000, 815-332-9898 and 815-962-7207.

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.

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.

Teen ‘Scape – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 4-7 p.m. Ages 10-19. Play games on Wii or Playstation, surf the Internet, play board games. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

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.

Holiday Grief Support Group – Beloit Regional Hospice, 655 Third St., Suite 200, Beloit, Wis. 5:30-7 p.m. Info: 608-363-7421.

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

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.

Snow and Icing–Cookie Decorating Party – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 4:30-5:30 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

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.

Yoga for Women – Womanspace Library, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. 9:30-10:45 a.m. Cost: $36 or $13/class (members $30 or $12/class). Dress comfortably and bring a sticky mat. Info: 815-877-0118.

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

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.

How Will We Pay for College? – Rockford Public Library, East Branch Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Ages 15 and older. Information about college costs, scholarships, financial aid applications, loans & financing. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

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.

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.

Friday, Dec. 9

Holidazzle Sweet Shoppe – St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 212 W. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. 5-8 p.m. Cookies, candies, baked goods, jams, jellies, craft items, raffle tickets.

Holiday Silent Auction, Final Bids – Monroe Arts Center, Monroe Arts Center,1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. 7:15 p.m. Info: 608-325-5700.

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

Elves in the Workshop – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Creative Corner, 215 N. Wyman St. 10:30-11 a.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

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, 8-10 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Zrii Tasting Party – Namaste Studios, 223 E. State St., Upper 1, 7:45-9 p.m. Zrii is an Ayurvedic nutritional beverage line.

River District Association’s Holiday Hoopla Event – City Hall & downtown businesses from East State to Main Street. Santa will be in lobby of City Hall from 6-9 p.m. Toys will be given away. Municipal parking lot on the 300 block of East State St. will have a stage for Christmas music. Press event at 6:30 p.m. in City Hall.

Hockey: Rockford IceHogs vs. Chicago Wolves – 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.

Saturday, Dec. 10

Chicago Shopping Trip – Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Bus departs at 8 a.m. from RVC parking lot 10. Small breakfast served on the bus. Shop along Michigan Ave. from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Bus returns to RVC by 8 p.m. Tickets $10 each at RVC Student Life Office, Student Center. Open to the community. Info: 815-921-4173.

Breakfast with Santa – Lena Fire Station, Lena, Ill. 8-10:30 a.m. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. Tickets: $4 ages 7-adult; $2.50 for ages 4-6, and children younger than 3, free. Enjoy breakfast, play games and win prizes! Info: 815-369-5351.

Lucia Fest – First Lutheran Church, 225 S. Third St., Rockford. 9 a.m.-noon. With St. Lucia and guests, Treasure Table, baked goods, crafts, live music, incl. students from Rockford Music Academy. Info: 815-962-6691.

Holidazzle Sweet Shoppe – St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 212 W. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Cookies, candies, baked goods, jams, jellies, craft items, raffle tickets. Lunch, $5 for either soup or bowl of chili.

Children’s Holiday Shoppe – The MarketPlace, 5846 E. State St. 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. Affordable shopping for parents, sponsored by Children’s Home & Aid, Tues. & Sat. thru Dec. 17. Info: 815-962-1043.

Holiday Gift Expo with Authors’ Book Signing – Freeport/Stephenson County Visitors Center, 4596 US Highway 20 East, Freeport. 1-3 p.m.Display features a 12-ft. Christmas tree surrounded by unique holiday gift ideas, products manufactured in Freeport or Stephenson County. Several local authors will do book signing. Gift Expo will be on display thru Jan. 8. Visitors Center is open from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. daily.

In Print Writers Meeting – Cherry Valley Library, 755 E. State St., Cherry Valley. 1-4 p.m. Info: 815-654-8639.

Cookie Walk – Second Congregational Church, 318 N. Church St. Doors open at 11 a.m. Sale lasts until cookies are gone. New this year, Christmas-themed cupcakes. Lunch also available. Carry out or eat in.

iRent Real Estate Open House with Holiday Treats – 1444 Myott Ave., Rockford. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Donations accepted for Toys for Tots and Rockford Rescue Mission. Regular office hours M-F, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

“In the Outdoors: Family Fun in 2011”– Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. Second St. All day. Info: 815-987-8800.

Chakra Body Sound Healing w/Jia Khechari – The House Cafe, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 2 p.m. Info: 815-787-9547.

Alpha Club Christmas Party – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center Foundation Room, 5666 E. State St. 6 p.m. No pot luck, but light refreshments will be served. Info: 815-633-9530.

Scrapbook Saturday – Rockford Public Library, East Branch Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 3-5 p.m. Ages 8 and older. Children younger than 12 need to be accompanied by an adult. Info: 815-965-7606.

Luminary Walk – Krape Park, 1799 S. Park Blvd., Freeport. 6-9 p.m. Admission: $5/person, includes treats, hot drinks and guided hike. Children 7 and younger admitted free.

Rockford Urban Ministries Annual Peace Program – Unitarian Universalist Church, 4848 Turner St. 7 p.m. Guest is peace activist Kathy Kelly, who visited Afghanistan and Gaza Strip during hostilities. Info: 815-964-7111.

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

Holiday Grief Support Group – Beloit Regional Hospice, 655 Third St., Suite 200, Beloit, Wis. 10:30 a.m.-noon. Info: 608-363-7421.

Kids’ Concert: Circus Boy – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. 3 p.m. Meet at Keller Center. Free. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Parents’ Day Out–The Spiderwick Chronicles – Welty Environmental Center at Beckman Mill County Park, 8606 W. County Rd. H, Beloit, Wis. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Ages 6-12 years. Explore the forest for hidden living things. Cost: $15 per FWEC member, $20 non-member. Register by Dec. 7. Info: 608-361-1377 or info@weltycenter.org.

Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois Holiday Luncheon – Illinois Machine Shed, 7475 E. State St. 11:30 a.m. For alumnae ages 18 and older. Registration free; attendees will order meals off the menu. Register by Dec. 7 at 815-963-9851 or snapshotmom@yahoo.com.

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.

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

12th Annual Wheelchair Basketball Tournament – Harlem High School, 9229 N. Alpine Road. 12:30, 3:30 and 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Rockford Park District. Free. Info: 815-987-1606 or 888-871-6171 [TTY].

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.

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.

Rockford Public Schools Community Input Meeting – Guilford High School Auditorium, 5620 Spring Creek Road. 10-11a.m.

Hockey: Rockford IceHogs vs. Grand Rapids Griffins – 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.

Sunday, Dec. 11

“Toys for Tots Sundays” – CoCo Key Water Resort, Best Western Clock Tower Resort & Conference Center, 7801 E. State St. Partnership with Marine Toys for Tots. Sundays, thru Dec. 18, guests who bring a new, unwrapped toy to CoCo Key will receive up to four half-price admissions. Offer valid 2 p.m.-close.

Holiday Gift Expo with Authors’ Book Signing – Freeport/Stephenson County Visitors Center, 4596 US Highway 20 East, Freeport. 1-3 p.m. Display features a 12-ft. Christmas tree surrounded by unique holiday gift ideas, products manufactured in Freeport or Stephenson County. Several local authors will do book signing. Gift Expo will be on display thru Jan. 8. Visitors Center is open from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. daily.

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.

12th Annual Wheelchair Basketball Tournament – Harlem High School, 9229 N. Alpine Road. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Hosted by Rockford Park District. Free. Info: 815-987-1606 or 888-871-6171 [TTY].

Monday, Dec. 12

DNR Hunter Education Course – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Dates: Dec. 12, 14, 16. 6-9 p.m. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Kids Club – Rockford Public Library, Lewis Lemon Branch, 1988 W. Jefferson St. 4:30-5:30 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

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.

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.

Excel 2010 in a Day – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 12-6 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Fundamentals of MS Word. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

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

“Basics” Series of Small Farm/Commercial Production Teleconference – University of Illinois Extension Office, 915 Alexandra Drive, Belvidere. 6:30-8 p.m. Topic: “The Basics of Commercial Pumpkin Production.” Register: 815-544-3710.

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

Lap-Band Bariatric Procedure – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, 5666 E. State St. 6 p.m. Free, but reservations requested. Info: 815-227-2274.

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.

Free Pool & Monday Night Football – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. Info: 815-877-8007.

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, Dec. 13

Elves in the Workshop – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 4-5 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

Kids Club – Rockford Public Library, Lewis Lemon Branch, 1988 W. Jefferson St. 4-5 p.m. Info: 815-965-7606.

Young Hearts for Life Cardiac Screening – SwedishAmerican Medical Center/Belvidere. 6-7:30 p.m. Free EKG screenings for high school students. Must be enrolled in a Boone or Winnebago County high school. Info: www.swedishamerican.org.

Birdwatching at Your Window – Welty Environmental Center, 8606 W. County Road H, Beloit, Wis. 6:30 p.m. Cost: $5 suggested donation. Register by Dec. 12 at 608-361-1377.

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.

Insight Meditation – Womanspace Library, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. 6:30-8 p.m. Cost $15 (members $12. Ages 15 and older. Vipassana meditation. Info: 815-877-0118.

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

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

Public Tours of Coronado Performing Arts Center – Coronado PAC, 314 N. Main St. 7 p.m. Tickets: $7. Call ahead for reservation at 815-968-0595.

Teen ‘Scape – Rockford Public Library, Rock River Branch, 3128 11th St. 4-5:30 p.m. Ages 10-19. Play games on Wii or Playstation, surf the Internet, play board games. 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.

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

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 Dec. 7-13, 2011, issue