Community Calendar: Week of April 25-May 1, 2012

Ongoing Attractions

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.

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

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

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

Becca’s Closet – Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1829 N. Rockton Ave. Accepting donations of gently-used formal wear. Donations accepted Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-noon at Christ Lutheran Church, 425 Riverside Road, Belvidere; Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 343 Grand Ave., Loves Park; Harlem Roscoe Fire Station, 10544 Main St., Roscoe, Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1829 N. Rockton Ave., Rockford, Mon.-Thurs., 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Machesney Park Village Hall, 300 Machesney Park Road, Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; The Postal Shoppe, 1643 N. Alpine Road, Rockford, Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. & Sat., 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; The Postal Shoppe, 2205 S. Perryville Road, Rockford, Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. & Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Info: 815-962-4279.

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.

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

Burpee Museum of Natural History – 737 N. Main St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Exhibiting thru April 29: “Ice Age Mammals.” Admission: $10 adults, $9 children 4-12, free for children younger than 4 and members; additional fee for traveling exhibits. Info: 815-965-3433.

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.

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

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

John Deere Historic Site – 8334 Clinton St., Grand Detour, Dixon. Opens for season May 2. Gates open Wed.-Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission $5 for ages 12 and older. Info: 815-652-4551.

Discovery Center Museum – 711 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $7 adults, $7 children. Now exhibiting: About Robots: The Interactive Exhibition thru April 29. Info: 815-963-6769.

Ethnic Heritage Museum – 1129 S. Main St. Sun., 2-4 p.m. Admission $3 individual, $5 family. Info: 815-962-7402.

Freeport Park District – 1122 S. Burchard, Freeport. Shaolin Kempo Kung Fu Self-Defense Classes run April 24-June 12. Tae Kwon Do classes run April 26-June 14. Info: 815-235-6114, ext. 109.

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

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.

Healing Pathways Cancer Resource Center – 2821 Bell School Road, Rockford. Classes in yoga, strength training, Qigong, line dancing and support group. Info: 815-395-5649 or healingpathwayscrc.org.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Ken-Rock Community Center – 3218 11th St. Various activities throughout the year. Computer classes Mon. and Wed. from 9:30-11:30 a.m. beginning March 12 thru April 11. Class will meet two times per week for 5 weeks. Class size is limited. Pre-registration and $50 commitment deposit required prior to first class. Fee will be refunded after you complete the class. Register/ Info: 815-398-8864.

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.

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. Donation Day is first Tuesday of each month. Admission free, donations of any amount welcome. Info: 815-965-8146.

Lazy Dog Yoga Studio – 5428 Williams Drive, Roscoe. $10 per drop-in class or 6 classes for $50. Kundalini Yoga every Friday at 10:30 a.m. Info: 970-485-0249.

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

Little Cubs Field – 1160 W. Empire St., Freeport. Website accepts reservations for birthday parties, corporate events, reunions, family gatherings. Visit www.littlecubsfield.com.

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

MELD Mother’s Day Cards & Note Cards available – At various locations. Cards $5 each, 8 notecards for $10. Info: 815-633-6353, ext. 10.

Memorial Hall – 211 N. Main St. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon-Fri., or by appointment. Info: 815-969-1999.

Midway Village – 6799 Guilford Road. Mon.-Sat., noon-4 p.m. Info: 815-397-9112.

Midwest Museum of Natural History – 425 W. State St., Sycamore. Admission $6, adults, $5 kids and seniors. Safari Sprouts 4th Wednesday of each month. Info: 815-895-9777.

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

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.

Northern Illinois Medical Group – 5301 E. State St. Qigong classes offered at various times, based on demand and class progression. Info: 815-397-8500.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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 Organization Across Rockford (formerly STAR) – Volleyball/Game Nights, 7-10 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 343 Grand Ave., Loves Park. Second and fourth Saturdays of each month. Cost: $4 or $2 with a snack to share. Info: 815-563-4309, 815-636-9880 or go to www.singlesinrockford.org.

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.

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.

Summerfield Zoo – 3088 Flora Road, Belvidere. Opening Saturday, April 28, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, April 29, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: $5 per person. Open weekends and selected Wednesdays. Info: 815-547-4852.

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

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.

Tinker Swiss Cottage – 411 Kent St. Tours 1, 2, 3 p.m., Tues.-Sun. Info: 815-964-2424.

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.

Volcano Falls Adventure Park – 7602 Rock Valley Parkway. Extended hours: Open weekdays 3-8 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays, noon-8 p.m., weather permitting. Info: 815-282-2100.

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.

YMCA of Rock River Valley – I.D. Pennock Branch, 200 Y Blvd., 815-489-1252. Northeast Branch, 8451 Orth Road, Loves Park. 815-489-3352.

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.

Zumba Fitness Class – Spring Creek United Church of Christ, 4500 Spring Creek Road. 10:15-11:15 a.m. every Saturday. Open to those 12 and older with no experience necessary. $5 drop-in fee. No membership fee, no child care. Info: 815-381-0765.

Registration Needed

Registration for Angelic Organics Learning Center events – Starting Your Organic Garden, April 28, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $70. The “Ins” and “Outs” of Composting, April 29, 1-3:30 p.m. $45. Animal Chores for Kids, April 30, May 7, May 14. 4-5:30 p.m. $40. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Registration for Free EKG Screens for High School Students – Heart Hospital at SwedishAmerican. Date: May 8. Appointments are scheduled every 15 minutes and begin at 6 p.m. Register your child at 815-968-4400, ext. 62894.

Applications for Winnebago County Retired Association Scholarship Grant – Deadline: June 1 (WCRTA). Info: 815-636-3060.

Registration for Taking Care of Trees Series – Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St. Session 3: The Care and Feeding of Trees, May 17, Session 4: Geriatric Tree Care, May 24. Individual courses, $15 non-member, $12 Klehm members. Info: 815-965-8146.

Registration for Rockford Park District Adult Golf Clinics – Aldeen Practice Centre. Thru June 23. Fees: $20 per clinic ($23 non-resident). Register at least one week in advance. Info: 815-987-8800 or www.rockfordparkdistrict.org (click Register Now) or by mail, fax (with credit card), or at either Park District Customer Service location. Info: 815-987-8800.

Registration for Girl Scout Centennial Celebration with Radio Disney AM Road Crew – NIU Convocation Center, 1525 W. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. Date: April 28, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Music, dancing, prizes; live stage performance by pop music sensation Savvy and TV stars. Kids’ activities and vendors. Tickets: $10/person advance, $12/person day of event. Purchase at NIU Convocation Center box office, all Ticketmaster Outlets, Ticketmaster.com, by phone at 800-745-3000 or Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois Shops.

Reservations for Mostaciolli Dinner & Auction (Benefit for Boone County Habitat for Humanity) – First Baptist Church, 1255 W. Jackson St., Belvidere. Date: April 28, 4-8 p.m. Tickets: $10/person or $35/family of four or more. Purchase at two Belvidere locations: Zion Lutheran Church, 1300 Pearl St. and Duraclean, 1989 Bedford North Drive. Info: 815-544-9888.

Applications for City of Gardens Flower Giveaway – Rockford Park District, 401 S. Main St. Applications due by May 3. Groups receiving flowers can pick up their flat(s) on May 11 at Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens.

Registration for “Faith at the End of Your Fork: Food, Spiritual Practice and Climate Change” Workshop – Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1829 N. Rockton Ave. Date: April 28, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: $10 registration and $10 for healthy lunch. Info & register: 815-234-8777 or revmikemul@frontier.com.

Registration for Womanspace Programs – Journey of the Female Hero, April 28, 9 a.m.-noon. Cost: $30, members $25. Register by April 26. Writershop: Women on Poetry, April 30. Cost: $25, members $20. Register by April 26. Info: 815-877-0118.

Registration for RAMP’s Boone County Wheel-A-Thon – Community Building Complex, 111 W. First St., Belvidere. Date: April 28, 9 a.m. Sponsorship opportunities still available. Info: 815-544-8404.

Registration for Alzheimer’s Association-Central Illinois Chapter, Rock River Chapter Educational Program – 93 S. Hennepin Ave., Dixon. Date: April 28, 9-11 a.m. Register at: 815-285-1100 or 800-272-3900.

Reservations for Seth B. Atwood Conservation Award Presentation – Nicholas Conservatory, 1354 N. Second St. Date: April 26, 5 p.m. social hour, 6 p.m. buffet, 7 p.m. speaker. Cost: $35. Reserve ASAP at 815- 987-1689.

Registration for Wonders of Water for Scouts & Homeschool – Welty Environmental Center in Beckman Mill County Park. Date: April 28. Session I: 10 a.m.-noon. Session II: 1-3 p.m. Grades 2-3. Cost: $10 per Scout. Register by April 26; specify which session you prefer. Info: 608-361-1377 or info@weltycenter.org.

Registration for Paranormal Evening at Midway Village Museum – 6799 Guilford Road. Date: April 28, 7-10 p.m. With spirit communicator Mark Dorsett. Registration till noon on April 28 or pay at the event. Info: www.hauntedrockford.com.

Registration for “Inspired to Paint” Art Show & Silent Auction – Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Spring Creek Road. Date: April 29, 2-4:30 p.m. Art from local artists available for purchase. Tickets: $35 advance, $40 at the door. Info: 815-964-9275, ext. 265.

Registration for “Family Overnight at the Museum” – Midwest Museum of Natural History, 425 W. State St., Sycamore. Dates: May 5-6, 6 p.m.-8 a.m. Pizza dinner, activities, continental breakfast. Ages 5 and up. $40/person, $36 members. Info: 815-895-9777.

Registration for “Bird Day Hike and Activities” – Welty Environmental Center and Friends of Rockport Park at Rockport Park, Janesville, Wis. Date: May 5, 9 a.m.-noon. Bring binoculars and field guides, pack a picnic lunch. Donations to sponsor groups accepted. Register at 608-361-1377 or info@weltycenter.org.

Registration for Eat Your Weeds! An Introduction to Wild Edibles – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Date: May 5, 9 a.m.-noon. $50. Pre-register at 815-389-8455.

Registration for Easy Dyes from Nature – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Date: May 5, 1-5 p.m. $60. Pre-register at 815-389-8455.

Registration for Alzheimer’s Workshop – Provena Cor Mariae Center, 3330 Maria Linden Drive. Dates: April 30, May 7 and 14. Three-day workshop. Designed for caregivers. Register at 815-877-7416.

Registration for Lunch & Learn: Bike Repair for Women on the Go – Womanspace, Anjali Pavilion, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Date: May 2, noon-1 p.m. Cost: $12 (members, $10). Bring a sack lunch. Info: 815-877-0118.

Registration for Ogle County Bird Count – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: May a5, 7 1.m. All ages. Meet at Jarrett Center. Bring binoculars and ID book. Register by May 4. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for “Bug Invaders of the Foreign Kind” – U. of Ill. Extension, Ogle County Farm Bureau, 421 W. Pines Road, Oregon. Date: May 8, 1 p.m., or May 10, 7 p.m. Identification, biology and management. $5/person. Info: 815-732-2191.

Reservations for Shelter Care Spring Luncheon – Tebala Shrine Temple, 7910 Newburg Road. Date: May 10, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Cost: $35/person. Tables of 10 available. Festivities include music and song by Jubilee Center members, piano music. Marketplace items for sale. Info: 815-964-5520.

Reservations for Wine Dinner at Abreo – 515 E. State St. Date: May 10, 6:30 p.m. Five-course dinner with five selected wines. Cost: $50/person (excludes tax & gratuity). RSVP: 815-968-9463.

Registration for “A Big Cat Tackle for MELD” – Giovanni’s Restaurant, 610 N. Bell School Road. 5:30-9:30 p.m. with VIP reception from 6-7 p.m., dinner at 7. Cost of dinner and program with James “Big Cat” Williams: $75/person or table of 10 for $750. Includes live and silent auction and raffle with sports memorabilia, Cubs and Bears tickets and more. Info: 815-633-6353, ext. 10 or www.rockfordmeld.org.

Registration for Rockford Football Training Camp – Auburn High School Stadium, 5110 Auburn St. Date: May 19, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Chicago Bears Players will appear. Fees: $60/participant ($65 non-resident), Meet & Greet tickets also available for fans and non-participants for $60. Info: 815-987-8800 or www.rockfordparkdistrict.org (click Register Now), or by mail, fax or credit card and at Park District Customer Service locations.

Registration for 10th Annual Rt. 75 Garage Sales – 40 miles of garage sales along IL Rt. 75 between I-90 near Rockton and U.S. 20 outside Freeport. Dates: June 1 and 2. No charge. Sign up now, edit your listings later. www.route75sales.com.

Registration for Third Annual Stone Bridge Trail Marathon & 5K Races – Date: Saturday, Oct. 13, 2012, 7 a.m. Race registration closes at 200 runners. Registration for marathon, $80 thru Oct. 5, $90 after. Registration for each 5K run is $25 thru October, $30 after. Info/Register: 815-623-5858 or www.ymcastonebridgemarathon.org.

Wednesday, April 25

Caritas 26th Annual “Sparkle” Luncheon & Fashion Show – Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road. Silent auction at 10:30 a.m. Luncheon at noon. Tickets: $35. Info: 815-389-3259.

Coupon Clipping with the Pros – Rock Valley Federal Credit Union, 11280 Forest Hills Road. Noon-12:45 p.m. Free. Info: 815-484-1608.

Stand Against Racism – Learning and Opportunity Center, Stewart Square, 308 W. State St. Noon-1 p.m. Free.

St. James Church Altar & Rosary Society 75th Annual Spring Card Party – St. James Beauvais Center, Parish Hall, 428 N. Second St. 7-9:30 p.m. Cost: $7/person, women, men, children. Free desserts, fruit coffee, tea. Pop and water sold at minimal prices, Bring your cards and/or board games. Door prizes, 50/50 raffle, drawing, silent auction. Info: 815-962-3639.

Babes and Books – Rockford Public 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.

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.

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 and power cord or charger and instruction booklet. Info: 815-965-7606.

Microsoft Word 2010 (3-week class) – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 6-8 p.m. Ages 13 and older. 6-8 p.m. Prerequisite: Must have used MS Word in the past and have good mouse skills. Info: 815-965-7606.

Comedy Night – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 Main St. 8 p.m. Free. Info: 815-877-8007.

Thursday, April 26

Seth B. Atwood Conservation Award Presentation – Nicholas Conservatory, 1354 N. Second St. 5 p.m. social hour, 6 p.m. buffet, 7 p.m. speaker. Cost: $35. Reserve ASAP at 815- 987-1689.

Stand Against Racism – Rock Valley College Main Campus, 3301 N. Mulford Road. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free.

MembersAlliance Free Seminar for Today’s Home Buyer – Metropolitan Title Agency, 6277 E. Riverside Blvd. 6-7:30 p.m. Local experts will present information and answer questions. Reserve: 815-484-1160 orerundblade@membersalliance.org. Walk-ins also welcome.

Photography of Nature – Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St. 6:30-8:30 p.m. With David Olson. $15 public, $12 members. Info: 815-965-8146.

Vegetable Garden Planning – University of Illinois Extension, Ogle County Farm Bureau, 421 W. Pines Road. Oregon. 7 p.m. Info: 815-732-2191.

Extreme Weather & Storm Chasing – Midwest Museum of Natural History, 425 W. State St., Sycamore. 7-8 p.m.With Dr. Walker Ashley of NIU. Cost: $4/person, members free. Info: 815-895-9777.

Friends of the Pecatonica River Foundation Meeting – Monroe Public Library, Monroe, Wis. 7 p.m. To promote interest in a paddling club.

Katie’s Book Club Discussion: The Descendants – Katie’s Cup, 502 Seventh St. 10 a.m. Info: 815-962-4279 or RALMmail@aol.com.

Healthcare Career Fair – Rock Valley College, Physical Education Center, 3301 N. Mulford Road. 4;30-7 p.m.

WCAS Public Information Meeting:“Is This the Right Pet for Me?” – Winnebago County Animal Services, 4517 N. Main St. 6-7:30 p.m. Info on different breeds and things to consider. Question & answer session last half-hour. Space is limited. Reserve now at 815-319-4106 or 815-319-4100.

Rockford Housing Authority Board Meeting – Central Office, 223 S. Winnebago St. 4 p.m.

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.

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

Guilford High School Athletic Signing – Guilford High School, 5620 Spring Creek Road. 3:30-4:30 p.m. in gym. Hannah Stanley will sign with Florida State College-Jacksonville to play volleyball.

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.

Turning 65: Get the Facts – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Ages 50 and older. Medicare eligibility, enrollment, benefits, options, Part D. Q&A session. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

YA Monthly Movies @ Main: Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Auditorium, 215 N. Wyman St. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Rated PG-13. Ages 12-19. 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.

“Special Education Basics” – Belvidere Park District Bldg., 1006 W. Lincoln, Belvidere. 6-9 p.m. Training for parents of students receiving special education services; 3 CPDUs available for educators. Dinner provided; childcare available. Free. Register by April 19 at 866-436-7842, ext. 107 or www.fmptic.org/family-matters-trainings.htm.

Stories by the Fire – 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, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 5-5:45 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.

Plant a Tree – Rockford Public Library, Rock River Branch, 3128 11th St. 4-4:45 p.m. Info: 815-965-7606.

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.

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

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.

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.

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, April 27

Healthcare Career Fair – Rock Valley College, Physical Education Center, 3301 N. Mulford Road. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-921-7821.

Science Siesta! – Discovery Center and Burpee Museum of Natural History. Girls will meet women in science career fields at this ovenight session, gain information on career choices. Choice of three workshop tracks. Cost: $40/girl. Info: 815-758-8194 or http://web.extension.illinois.edu/bdo/.

Open House: Spring Fever – Let’s Dance – Meyer’s Canine Colony, 10985 Main St., Roscoe. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Info: 815-623-9999.

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.

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.

Guilford High School Athletic Signing – Guilford High School, 5620 Spring Creek Road. 3:30-4:30 p.m. in gym. Kayla Liles will sign with Quincy University for girls’ golf.

Conversational English – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Bookworm Bakery & Café, 6685 E. State St. 4-6 p.m. Ages 18 and older. Info: 815-965-7606.

Recycled Tie-Dye Party – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 4-5:30 p.m. Ages 13-19. Bring in fabric items to be recycled. Info: 815-965-7606.

Winnebago County CASA Celebrity Treasures Dinner & Auction – Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road. Social hour, silent auction at 6 p.m. Dinner, 7 p.m. with speaker and live auction, 50/50 raffle; need not be present to win. Raffle tickets $10 each or 3 for $25, may be purchased online at www.winnebagocountycasa.org or call 815-319-6880. Event ticket price is $60.

Saturday, April 28

“Great American Cleanup” – Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful. 8 a.m.-noon. Patriots Gateway Center, 615 S. 5th St. is central location; supplies also available at other locations. Info: 815-637-1343.

“Faith at the End of Your Fork: Food, Spiritual Practice and Climate Change” Workshop – Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1829 N. Rockton Ave. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: $10 registration and $10 for healthy lunch. Info & register: 815-234-8777 or revmikemul@frontier.com.

Journey of the Female Hero – Womanspace, Library, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. 9 a.m.-noon. With Janet Lueck, Ed.D. Cost: $30, members $25. Register by April 26. Info: 815-877-0118.

Mayor’s Youth Advisory Summit: “Success^You” – Heartland Community Church, 1280 S. Alpine Road. 9 a.m.-2 p.m.Free breakfast and lunch. Raffle prizes, Subway certificates, giveaway bags, chance to win a Kindle. Open to high school-age youth. Info: 815-967-4038 or e-mail annie.hobson@rockfordil.gov.

Macktown Living History – Macktown Forest Preserve, 2221 Freeport Road, Rockton. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: $8 adults, $5 students, children under 6 free; family (up to 5 people), $20.

Introduction to Qigong Class – Northern Illinois Medical Group, 5301 E. State St., Ste. 101. 10 a.m. Classes to be held Wednesday evenings in 7-8-week sessions, cost depending on length of session. Info: 815-397-8500.

Illinois Solar Energy Association Social Networking – Freedom Field, 3333 Kishwaukee St. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Open to all who are interested in solar energy. Tours given, light lunch & beverages. Registration through ISEA website. Info: info@freedomfieldenergy.com.

Ladies Day Out Spring Sale – Lena Community Center, Lena, Ill. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Shop for Mother’s Day gifts, graduations, weddings. Silent auction benefits Lena Area Church Cooperative. Door prizes, grand prize of $100. No admission fee. Gentlemen also welcome; lunch stand and handicap accessibility.

“It’s All About You” Open House – P. A. Peterson Center for Health, 1311 Parkview Ave. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Items from various vendors will be offered. Public invited to free event.

Astronomy Day – Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Planetarium shows, star maps, star crafts, check out a telescope. Included with museum admission, $7 adults, $7 children 2-17. Info: 815-963-6769.

Alzheimer’s Association-Central Illinois Chapter, Rock River Chapter Educational Program – 93 S. Hennepin Ave., Dixon. 9-11 a.m. Register at: 815-285-1100 or 800-272-3900.

RAMP’s Boone County Wheel-A-Thon – Community Building Complex, 111 W. First St., Belvidere. 9 a.m. Info: 815-544-8404.

Starting Your Organic Garden – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $70. Info: 815-389-8455, www.learngrowconnect.org.

Fabulous Faux for Boring Walls – Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road. 9:30 a.m.-noon. and 1-3:30 p.m. One-day seminar. Free. Register at 815-921-3900.

Wonders of Water for Scouts & Homeschool – Welty Environmental Center in Beckman Mill County Park. Session I: 10 a.m.-noon. Session II: 1-3 p.m. Grades 2-3. Cost: $10 per Scout. Register by April 26; specify which session. Info: 608-361-1377 or info@weltycenter.org.

Instant Guitar for Hopelessly Busy Adults and Teens – Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road. 9:30 a.m.-noon. One-time class. Also, How to Play Guitar By Ear, 1-3:30 p.m. Register online at www.rockvalleycollege.edu/ceonline. Info: 815-921-3900.

Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois Centennial Celebration – NIU Convocation Center, DeKalb. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Goodwill Industries is donating 5,000 gently-used T-shirts. Family-friendly event.

Open House: Spring Fever – Let’s Dance – Meyer’s Canine Colony, 10985 Main St., Roscoe. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Info: 815-623-9999.

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

Radio Disney AM 1300 Road Crew hosts Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois Centennial Celebration – NIU Convocation Center, 1525 W. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Music, dancing, prizes and more. Tickets: $10/person, $12/person day of event. Children age 2 and younger, free. Purchase at NIU Convocation Center box office, Ticketmaster Outlets, Ticketmaster. com, by phone at 815-745-3000 or at Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois Shops.

Exploring Woodland Wildflowers – Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715S. Main St. 1-4 p.m. with wildflower expert Anita Johnson. Free with garden admission. Info: 815-965-8146.

SCIENCE! – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, Auditorium, 215 N. Wyman St. 3-4:30 p.m. All ages. Make scientific crafts, perform experiments. Info: 815-965-7606.

Generations Fashion Show – Ellis Arts Academy, 222 S. Central Ave. 4-7 p.m. Fund-raiser for Black Family Reunion. Tickets: $10. Sponsored by Rockford Section, National Council of Negro Women, Inc. Tickets/Info: 815-601-6904.

Seth B. Atwood Conservation Award Presentation – Nicholas Conservatory, 1354 N. Second St. 5 p.m. social hour, 6 p.m. buffet, 7 p.m. speaker. Cost: $35. Reserve ASAP at 815- 987-1689.

Mostaciolli Dinner & Auction (Benefit for Boone County Habitat for Humanity) – First Baptist Church, 1255 W. Jackson St., Belvidere. 4-8 p.m. Tickets: $10/person or $35/family of four or more. Purchase at two Belvidere locations: Zion Lutheran Church, 1300 Pearl St. and Duraclean, 1989 Bedford North Drive. Info: 815-544-9888.

Paranormal Evening at Midway Village Museum – 6799 Guilford Road. 7-10 p.m. With spirit communicator Mark Dorsett. Registration till noon April 28 or pay at the event. Info: www.hauntedrockford.com.

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.

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.

Sunday, April 29

March for Babies – Verdi Club, a782 N. Madison St. 9 a.m. Sponsored by March of Dimes. Rep. Chuck Jefferson will participate. Info: 815-987-7433.

Macktown Living History – Macktown Forest Preserve, 2221 Freeport Road, Rockton. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: $8 adults, $5 students, children under 6 free; family (up to 5 people), $20.

Girl Scout Centennial Celebration with Radio Disney AM Road Crew – NIU Convocation Center, 1525 W. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Music, dancing, prizes; live stage performance by pop music sensation Savvy and TV stars. Kids’ activities and vendors. Tickets: $10/person advance, $12/person day of event. Purchase at NIU Convocation Center box office, all Ticketmaster Outlets, Ticketmaster.com, by phone at 800-745-3000 or Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois Shops.

Powering Down – Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St. 1-4 p.m. Conclusion to “Robots: The Interactive Exhibition.” All activities included with Robots admission: $11 public, $2 members. Info: 815-963-6769.

Rays of Hope – Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens, 1354 N. Second St. 2-4 p.m.Hosted by SwedishAmerican Regonal Cancer Center. Limited seating. Register at 815-968-2500. Info: 815-489-4884.

“Inspired to Paint” Art Show & Silent Auction – Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Spring Creek Road. 2-4:30 p.m. Art from local artists available for purchase. Tickets: $35 advance, $40 at the door. Info: 815-964-9275, ext. 265.

“Ins” and “Outs” of Composting – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia.1-3:30 p.m. $45. Info: 815-389-8455, www.learngrowconnect.org.

Prairie Preservation Society of Ogle County Annual Banquet – Lorado Taft Field Campus, Ogle County. Doors open at 5 p.m., dinner at 6:30, program at 7:30. Speaker Randy Niebour; topic: turtles and other wildlife of northern Illinois. Tickets $25. Info: 815-243-0020 or ppsoc.org@gmail.com.

Monday, April 30

Alzheimer’s Workshop – Provena Cor Mariae Center, 3330 Maria Linden Drive. April 30, May 7 and 14. Designed for caregivers. Register at 815-877-7416.

Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon Listening Post – FHN Burchard Hills Family Healthcare Center, 1010 Fairway Drive, Freeport. 1-3 p.m.

Classrooms First Public Hearing – Rock Valley College, Woodward Technology Center, Room 118-121, 3301 N. Mulford Road. 4:30-6:30 p.m. Info on helping school districts consolidate. To view live-stream of public hearings or submit online comments, go to www.ltgov.illinois.gov.

Senior Computer Q&A – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 1-3 p.m. Ages 55 and older. Info: 815-965-7606.

Animal Chores for Kids – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. 4-5:30 p.m. Pre-register. Cost: $40. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Winnebago Landfill Hearing – Winnebago County Board Room, 400 W. State St., 8th Floor. 6-9 p.m. Public participation. Consideration on the proposed expansion of the landfill. Info: 815-319-4250.

Writershop: Women on Poetry – Womanspace, Fountain View Room, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. 7-9 p.m. With Christine Swanberg, for women age 18 and older. Cost; $25, members $20. Register by April 26. Info: 815-877-0118.

Gamblers Anonymous – Meets at 6 p.m. every Monday. Call Roger at 815-601-8894.

Tuesday, May 1

Pub Trivia – Hope and Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park. 8 p.m. Info: 815-633-2552.

Books and Barks – Cherry Valley Public Library, 755 E. State St., Cherry Valley. 3:30-5 p.m. Ages 5-12. Registration is required. Info: 815-332-5161 or www.cherryvalleylib.il.us.

Northwest Illinois Audubon Society Meeting & Potluck – Oakdale Nature Preserve, 3 miles south of Freeport off Bailey Road. Potluck, 6 p.m.; program at 7. Topic: “Whose woods these are” intro to 50-acre wooded property donation. Bring a dish to pass and table service. Beverages will be provided.

Public Tours of Coronado Performing Arts Center – Coronado PAC, 314 N. Main St. 7 p.m. $7. Reservations/Info: 815-968-0595.

Women’s Self-Defense Class – River Valley Complex, 605 S. Main St., Leaf River. 7-9 p.m. No martial arts or athletic ability required. Costs/Info: 815-973-1064. Next class May 8.

7th Annual Peanut Butter Rally – Rock River Valley Pantry. Thru May. Info: 815-965-2466.

Have your free listing in the Thursday preceding our Wednesday publication. Listings can be e-mailed to contact@rockrivertimes.com, faxed to 815-964-9825 or called in to 815-964-9767.

From the April 25-May 1, 2012, issue