Community Calendar: Week of Aug. 1-7, 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.

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. 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.

Edgar Cayce (ARE) Group – Meets every other Tuesday. Address: Call for info: 815-234-2394.

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.

CoCo Key Water Resort – Best Western Clock Tower Resort & Conference Center, 7801 E. State St. CoCo’s Book Drive will be extended thru the summer. Every Wed., guests can receive $3 off admission with donation of a new or gently-used book. Books will be donated to Friends of the Rockford Public Library.

John Deere Historic Site – 8334 Clinton St., Grand Detour, Dixon. Gates open Wed.-Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission $5 for ages 12 and older. Aug. 4 and 5: “Hammer In” festival celebrates the blacksmith who founded the company 175 years ago. Info: 815-652-4551.

Discovery Center Museum – 711 N. Main St. New expanded hours: Sun.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $7 adults, $7 children, free to members and children age 1 and younger. Info: 815-963-6769.

Ethnic Heritage Museum – 1129 S. Main St. Sun., 2-4 p.m. Admission $3 individual, $5 family. Irish Gallery salutes the Mulligan Guards, thru October. Now thru November: Italian Gallery presents “Wandering through Memory Lane” – historic glimpses of south Rockford. Info: 815-962-7402.

Freeport Park District – 1122 S. Burchard, Freeport. Info: 815-235-6114.

Freeport/Stephenson County Visitors Center – U.S. 20, east of Freeport. Expo: ‘Good Old Summertime” thru Labor Day. Hours: 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

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: 815-389-7917 or www.historicautoattractions.com.

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. 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.

Lena Community Park District – Splashland Pool, 1-8 p.m. all summer. Splashland Food Court, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Mini Golf, Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat.-Sun., 1-8 p.m. Water Polo, Mon. & Wed., 8-9:15 p.m. Info: 815-369-5351.

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

LifeHOUSE The Atrium – Monthly support group for individuals and families dealing with dementia. Meets every second Tuesday of the month at noon. Info: Patti Lizer at 815-876-7536.

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.

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. Info: 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.

Ray of Hope: Support After Suicide – Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 4700 Augustana Drive. Meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday. 7-8:30 p.m. Free. For registration: 815-636-4750.

Really, Really Free Market – Beattie Park, 21st of each month. Noon-6 p.m Free admission. Have stuff to donate? Drop it off!

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. Special offer: Now thru Sept. 1, area blood donors will receive a coupon for a free Cherry Berry Chiller from participating McDonald’s. “Hot Dog Wednesdays” and Ice Cold Slushies at donor centers. Anyone who donates blood at a local blood center or mobile blood drive location is eligible. Info: 815-965-8751 or 866-889-9037 or www.rrvbc.org.

Rockford Park District Pools Now Open – Alpine Pool, 4310 Newburg Road,Rockford. Dates: June 9-Aug. 12. Info: 815-987-8804. Harkins Aquatics Center, 910 Acorn St., Rockford. Thru Aug. 19. Info: 815-987-8805. Sand Park Pool, 1041 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park.Thru Aug. 19. Info: 815-987-8806. Also see: www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/pools. Now: “Trolley to the Tropics” – a special discount for Trolley Car 36 and a tour of Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens. Purchase tour packages at the Trolley Station, 324 N. Madison St. every Thurs. now thru August. Cost: $6 (residents), $7 (non-residents), $4 (students age 18 and younger); ages 4 and younger, free. Info: 815-987-1685. Neighborhood Groups Help Hydrate the Forest City – Park District will provide 5-gallon watering buckets and watering instructions to neighborhood groups; must pre-register. Info: 815-987-8863.

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 Farmers’ Market – Rockton United Methodist Church, 102 Chapel St., Rockton. Every Wednesday, thru Oct. 24, 4-7 p.m.

Rockton Township Historical Society Museum – Corner of Blackhawk Boulevard & Green Street, Rockton. 2012 Quilt Show thru Aug. 25. 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.

Stephenson County Museum – 1440 S. Carroll Ave., Freeport. Exhibiting now: “A Century of Maps: Freeport and Stephenson County, 1870s to 1970s,” till Aug. 5. Admission: $4 adults, $2 children up to age 12. Info: 815-975-7631.

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. 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 and 3 p.m., Tues.-Sun. New program: Blue Star Museums, offering free admission to active duty military personnel and their families this summer from Memorial Day thru Labor Day. 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.

Trolley and Forest City Queen Rides – Riverview Park, 324 N. Madison St. Available thru the summer with Rockford Park District. New this season: Rent a bike, in partnership with Paddle & Trail. Single or tandem bikes: $10/hr., $25/half day, $50/day. Info: 815-987-8824.

Vintage Wings and Wheels Museum – 5151 Orth Road, Poplar Grove. Now exhibiting: 1893 World’s Fair Exhibit. Info: 815-547-3115.

Volcano Falls Adventure Park – 7602 Rock Valley Parkway. Extended hours: Open Sunday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday & Saturday, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. through summer, weather permitting. Info: 815-282-2100.

Windsor Lake Regional Activity Center – 7212 N. Alpine Road, Loves Park. Rockford Park District and Paddle and Trail of Loves Park. Now offering: Mad Anglers Fishing Club, Windsor Lake Fishing League, Paddlesport instruction and rental, RAC memberships through Paddle and Trail, group and corporate outings, boat storage, special women’s and youth programs. Info: 855-752-92688 or www.paddleandtrail.com.

Winnebago County Animal Services – 4517 N. Main St. Golden Whiskers adoption program spotlights cats and dogs 7 years old or more. Any qualified adopter 18 years or older can adopt a senior cat for $20 or dog for $55 – half off regular adoption fee. Info: 815-319-4100 or www.wcasrock.org.

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.

Registration Needed

Registration for Freeport Park District Programs – Martial Arts at the Freeport Park District: Shaolin Kempo, Aug. 14-Oct. 2; Litt le Ninjas, Aug. 16-Oct. 4; Tae Kwon Do, Aug. 16-Oct. 4. Tai Chi, Aug. 20-Oct. 15; Aug. 14-Oct. 2; Aug. 16-Oct. 4. Register by Aug. 10. Little Rippers, Aug. 29-Sept. 5, ages 5-15. Info: 815-235-6114, ext. 109.

Registration for Daytime and Evening Adult Grief Support Groups – Beloit Regional Hospice, 655 Third St., Beloit, Wis. 1-2:30 p.m. and 6-7:30 p.m. Each group meets for seven weeks. Register at 608-363-7421 or 877-363-7421. No fee, but advance registration is required.

Registration for Volunteer Tutor Workshops – The Literacy Council, 982 N. Main St. Six classes to be held Mon. and Wed. beginning Aug. 6 at 5:30 p.m. Also online workshop. Info: www.theliteracycouncil.org or 815-963-READ.

Registration for Walking Tour of Angelic Organics – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Date: Aug. 4, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Pre-register. Cost: $22. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Registration for Playing with Your Food Day Camp – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Dates: Aug. 6-9, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost: $170. Pre-register. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Registration for Information Session on U of I Extension Master Naturalist Program – Cherry Valley Public Library, 755 E. State St. Date: Aug. 7, 5:30 p.m. Free, but pre-registration is requested. Info: 815-986-4357 or jbatista@illinois.edu.

Registration for “A Harvest for All Seasons” Workshop – U of I Extension, Ogle County, basics of vegetable gardening webinar program. Date: Aug. 9, 6-8 p.m. Free. Register at https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=6936.

Registration for Trip to Davenport, Iowa – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Aug. 10. See Figge Art Museum and the River Music Experience. Cost: $15/person, for adults. Meet at Jarrett Center at 9 a.m. Register by Aug. 3. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for Freeport Cruise Night – Downtown Freeport. Date: Aug. 11; display begins at 3:30 p.m.; cruising, 7-10 p.m. Display your antique cars, at least 25 years old, in Freeport Public Library parking lot. Info: 815-238-6124 or 815-990-1082.

Registration for Fossil Hunt – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Aug. 11, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Meet at Stone Quarry. Fee: $2/person. Register by Aug. 8 at 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for Beloit Regional Hospice and Transitions Volunteer Training – Beloit Regional Hospice, 655 Third St., Beloit, Wis. Dates: Aug. 11 and 25, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Call 608-363-7421 or e-mail volunteer@beloitregionalhospice.com by Aug. 3. Light lunch provided.

Reservations for U of I Openfields Local Foods Dinner – Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road. Date: Aug. 4, 6 p.m. Cost: $50 per person, vegetarian option available. Catered by Toni’s of Winnebago. Part of the proceeds will be donated to Severson Dells. Reserve at 815-986-4357 or 815-235-4125 or http://web.extension.illinois.edu/jsw.

Registration for Jr. RiverHawks Tryouts – RiverHawks Stadium, 4503 Interstate Blvd., Loves Park. Dates: Aug. 7 and 8, 5:30-8 p.m. Info: 815-885-2255 or 815-980-6219.

Registration for Cheesemaking – Angelic Organics, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Date: Aug. 4, 1:30-4:30 p.m. Pre-register. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Registration for Furry Worry Stone – Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road. Date: Aug. 8, 4 p.m. Class using locally grown and collected Angora wool and a “stone” mold. Age 6 and up. Cost: $15 non-members, $12 members. Info: 815-316-3307.

Registration for Sketching for Fun – Womanspace New Dimensions Studio, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Date: Aug. 8, 9:30 a.m.-noon. Fee $25 (members $20). Girls and boys ages 9-15. Info: 815-877-0118.

Registration for Rock Run Soccer Club’s Fifth Annual Golf Play
Day – Aldeen Golf Club, 1900 Reid Farm Road, Rockford. Date: Aug. 10. Cost: $125. Includes golf, cart, lunch and dinner. Scramble format. Proceeds to help fund Club’s college scholarship and financial aid funds. Info: 815-222-6128 or www.rockrun.org.

Registration for Basic Digital Photography Class – Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road. Every Thurs. Aug. 9-30, 6-8:30 p.m. Cost $109. Class presented by Chicago Photo Safaris. Info: 815-316-3307.

Registration for Matthew’s Miracle Network Second Annual Dinner & Silent Auction – NorthPointe, 5605 E. Rockton Road, Roscoe. Date: Aug. 11, 6 p.m. To benefit childhood cancer research. Cost: $50/person. Info: 815-713-3207, 815-222-6576 or www.Facebook.com/MatthewsMiracleNetwork.

Registration for Count Your Chickens – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Date: Aug 11, 9 a.m.-noon. Pre-register. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Registration for Get Your Goat – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Date: Aug 11, 1-4 p.m. Pre-register. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Registration for Science of Composting Workshop – U of I Extension Ogle County, 421 W. Pines Road, Oregon. Date: Aug. 11, 9 a.m.-noon. Cost: $30/person advance, $15 second participant. Children under 18 years of age: $5. Late registration and walk-in fee: $35. Deadline: Aug. 8. Info: 815-732-2191.

Reservations for Fifth Annual Peak Harvest Farm Dinner Benefit – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Date: Aug. 11, 5 p.m. Guests will enjoy a gourmet five-course meal. Event starts in Chicago with pre-event reception at Big Bowl; a shuttle bus will transport Chicago residents to the event. Info/Tickets: www.learngrowconnect.org/farmdinner.

Registration for Antique Cars for Freeport Cruise Night – Date: Aug. 11. Cars will be sponsored by Freeport Public Library in their parking lot. Eligible cars must be at least 25 years old and in original form. Info: Dick at 815-238-6124 or Bob at 815-990-1082.

Registration for Alzheimer’s Association’s Great Duck Race – Rock River Branch, 93 S. Hennepin Ave., Dixon. Date: Aug. 11, 10 a.m. Race to be held at Heritage Crossing Riverfront Plaza, Dixon. Buy your lucky rubber ducks today! Info: 800-272-3900.

Registration for Paranormal Investigation of Cedar Bluff Cemetery – 1200 Rural St. Date: Aug. 11, 7-9 p.m. With Forest City Paranormal Society. Cost: $10 in advance, $15 at the event. Info: 815-871-4239 or www.hauntedrockford.com.

Registration for Perseid Meteor Watch – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Aug. 12, 10 p.m.-midnight. Meet at Weiskopf Observatory. Free. Register by Aug. 10. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for Animal Day for Families – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Date: Aug 12, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Pre-register. Info: 815-389-8455, www.learngrowconnect.org.

Registration for CROP Hunger Walk Recruitment Rallies – JustGoods Meeting Room, 201 Seventh St. Dates: Aug. 12 and 13, 5:30 p.m. Program is free and open to public. Soup and bread supper will be served free, but please call or e-mail in advance: David Jones, 815-540-3403 or davidj6226@aol.com.

Registration for Northern Illinois Hospice & Grief Center 25th Annual Charity Golf Event – Rockford Country Club, 2500 Oxford Road. Date: Aug. 13. Registration after Aug. 1: $175. Includes 18 holes of golf, buffet lunch, golf cart, chances on prizes and gifts, dinner. Additional guests may purchase a ticket for dinner only for $45. Info: 815-398-0500.

Registration for Seminar on Child Abuse for Educators, Social/Medical Field Workers – Grace Roper Lounge, Burpee Center, Rockford College, 5050 E. State St. Date: Aug. 13, 7:45-9:30 a.m. Cost: $20/person includes breakfast. Presented by Carrie Lynn Children’s Center. Info: 815-226-4087.

Registration for Webinar on Tomato Plants – University of Illinois Extension, Ogle County, 421 W. Pines Road, 0regon. Date: Aug. 14, 11:15 a.m. Variety selection, best planting practices and cultural information, how to recognize early and late blight, etc. Open to public. Cost: $5. Info: 815-732-2191.

Nominations for Charles G. Uram Lifetime Service Award – Rockford Cosmopolitan Charities in partnership with Community Foundation of Northern Illinois. Deadline Aug. 15. Info: http://cfnil.org/connect-through-us/charles-uram-award/.

Registration for Kids with Cob – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Date: Aug 15, 1-4 p.m. Pre-register. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Registration for Cartoon & Caricatures – Womanspace New Dimensions Studio, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Date: Aug. 16, 9:30 a.m.-noon. Fee $25 (members $20). Girls & boys ages 9-15. Info: 815-877-0118.

Registration for Family Matters PTIC and DSCC for: Collaboration: Schools and Families Working Together – Division of Specialized Care of Children, 4302 Main St. Date: Aug. 17, noon-2 p.m. Free workshop, but register by Aug. 10 at 866-436-7842, ext. 107. 2 CPDUs available for educators. Certificate of attendance provided. If accommodations are needed, call at least 2 weeks prior to training date.

Registration for Application Seminar for Habitat for Humanity Program – Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity, 5183 Harlem Road. Date: Aug. 18. Info: www.rockfordhabitat.org or 815-636-4573.

Registration for Hypertufa Garden Art – Womanspace New Dimensions Studio, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Date: Aug. 18, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fee $80 (members $70) includes all materials. Age 16-adult. All supplies will be provided, but dress for messiness and bring a sack lunch. Info: 815-877-0118.

Order Tickets for Pro Wrestling Event – RiverHawks Stadium, 4503 Interstate Blvd., Loves Park. Date: Aug. 18. Co-production of Pro Wrestling/Rock Concert, former WWE and reality show stars. Tickets available at Riverhawks box office or www.rockfordriverhawks.com or 815-885-2255.

Registration for “Church Accountability by the Book” – United Presbyterian Church, 302 W. Stephenson St., Freeport. Date: Aug. 18, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Why are ministers audited? How to protect the church 501(c)(3) status? Summit Tax & Accounting, LLC presents this seminar. Cost: $52.50-$65. Info: 217-877-6766.

Registration for 10th Annual Durand Biker Bash and Chili Shoot Out – Town Square, Durand. Date: Sept. 8. All types of motorcycles welcome; no entry fee. Live music by two bands. Entry deadline Aug. 17. $50 deposit required, to be refunded the day of the show. Info: 815-494-3446 or www.durandevents.com.

Reservations for St. John’s UCC Roast Beef Dinner – 401 N. Main St., Belvidere. Date: Aug. 18, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Carry-outs available. Tickets: $10 adults, $5 children age 5-12, ages 4 and younger, free. Info: 815-877-877-8953 or 815-547-8808.

Reservations for Adoption Informa tion Meeting – St. Anthony’s Medical Center, 5666 E. State St. Date: Aug. 19, 1-3 p.m. Both domestic and international adoptions explained. Hosted by Children’s Home & Aid. Reserve at 815-962-1043 or 888-248-4335. Walk-ins also welcome.

Registration for Senior Golf Classic – Ingersoll Golf Course. Dates: Aug. 20 and 21. Open to amateur golfers age 60 and older who are residents of Winnebago, Boone, Ogle, Stephenson or Rock counties; or are Rockford Park District golf permit holders. Limited to first 130 entries. Deadline: Aug. 6. Info: 815-987-8800 for entry form, or www.rockfordparkdistrict.org.

Registration for “Dealing with Drought in the Home Landscape” – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, 6685 E. State St. Date: Aug. 22, 6-7 p.m. Hosted by University of Illinois Extension, Winnebago County. Free, but registration is requested. Info: 815-986-4357.

Registration for “Dinner With the Dead, Buffet With the Beyond” – The Golden Corral, 995 E. Perryville Road. Date: Aug. 23, 6 p.m. Psychic Jonna Carlson will give readings during dinner. Tickets: $25/person. Info: 608-346-1277; PayPal at jonna@jonnathehappymedium.com.

Registration for Live Gallery Reading with Mark Dorsett at the Camp Grant Museum – 1004 Samuelson Road. Date: Aug. 25, 7-9 p.m. Messages from loved ones in gallery-style sessions. Cost: $20. Info: www.hauntedrockford.com.

Registration for Family Matters PTIC Workshop: “Being Your Child’s Advocate” – First United Methodist Church, 503 Lily Creek Road, Freeport. Date: Aug. 28, light meal at 5:30 p.m., training, 6-8:30 p.m. Certificate of Attendance provided; EI credits pending. Free, but register by Aug. 21 at 866-436-7842, ext. 107 or www.fmptic.org/events/trainings.

Registration for “Meet the Buyers/Meet the Chefs” – Highland Community College, Student Conference Center, Freeport. Date: Aug. 28. Brings farmers and buyers/chefs together and creates more outlets for specialty crops. Open to farmers from Illinois and the region. Free, but register by Aug. 24. Info: U of I Extension, 815-235-4125 or http://web.extension.illinois.edu/jsw.

Registration for Lost Nation Golf Club Event Benefit – Easter Seals Autism Therapeutic School, Rockford and Rockvale Children’s Home,Rockford at 6931S. Lost Nation Road, Dixon. Date: Aug. 31, 10 a.m. shotgun start. Cost: $75 includes dinner; hole sponsorships available at $100 each. Info: 815-652-4212.

Registration for Classic Car Show – Central Christian Church, 6595 Guilford Road. Date: Sept. 8, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Pre-registration cost: $8 per car if submitted before Aug. 24; $10 day of show. Music, kids activities, food vendors, soft drinks. Proceeds go to Carpenter’s Place. Info: 815-997-5178 or 815-963-7254.

Order Tickets for “Elmo Makes Music” – BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St. Dates: Sept. 7-9. Tickets: $3 and $13; limited number of $25 Gold Circle seats and $60 Sunny Seats. Opening Night, all seats (excluding Gold Circle and Sunny Seats) are $20. Facility fee of $1.50 is added. Info: 815-968-5222 or www.sesamestreetlive.com.

Registration for Out of the Darkness Community Walk for Suicide Prevention – Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road. Date: Sept. 8. Register to walk or donate: www.OutOfTheDarkness.org.

Registration for Eighth Annual Thin Mint Sprint – Girl Scouts Camp McCormick, Stillman Valley. Date: Sept. 8. Events: 8K and Tough Cookie Trail Run are $25/person, $30 after Aug. 15. “Do the Double” is $40/person; $50 after Aug. 15. 2-mile Family Fun Walk/Run is $15/person; $20 after Aug. 15. Info: www.girlscoutsni.org.

Registration for RAMI Golf Play Day to benefit Gary S. Wilmer Memorial Scholarship Fund – Elliot Golf Course. Date: Sept. 14. $65 per golfer or $350 Gold Sponsorship or $250 Silver Sponsorship or Hole Sponsorship for $125. Deadline: Sept. 7, golfers and dinner reservations for non-golfers. Limited to first 144 golfers. Entry forms at www.ramiawards.com. Info: 815-546-3021.

Reserve Booth Space for Lifescape’s Senior Expo – Indoor Sports Center, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park. Dates: Sept. 13-14. Theme: “Fit & Fab ulous!” Info: 815-490-1111 or www.lifescapeservices.org.

Registration for Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s – YMCA Log Lodge, Rockford, Sept. 22 and Hopkins Park, DeKalb, Sept. 23. 3-mile walk. Start or join a team today at alz.org/walk or call 815-484-1300.

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 ymcastonebridgemarathon.org.

Registration for “Master the SAT Class” by College Prep Genius – Talcott Library, 101 E. Main St., Rockton. Dates: Oct. 19 (4-9:30) and 20 (9-2:30). Tuition: $179, includes DVD review. Early registration is $149 until Sept. 15. Space limited; reserve early. Info: 815-624-0970.

Vendors Needed for Holiday Craft & Gift Fair – Oregon United Methodist Church, Oregon, Ill. Date: Nov. 3, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Cost: $20 per table space; 6-foot and 8-foot tables available on limited basis for additional donation. Info: 815-732-2994.

CoCo Key Water Resort Helps Prevent Skin Cancer – In partnership with American Cancer Society, CoCo Key offers CoCo’s Sun Safety Tuesdays, thru Aug. 21. Discounted admission. Guests must bring in old bottles of sunscreen lotion or any sunscreen that is not broad spectrum to the water park for disposal. Receive $3 off on four admissions for a total savings of $12.

CoCo Key Water Resort Partners with Rockford School District to Help Needy School Children – In partnership with Rockford School District 205, CoCo Key is hosting “CoCo’s School Supplies Drive” every Wednesday, Aug. 1-22. All donations collected will be given to the school district to be distributed to needy kids through their “Back 2 School Supplies for Schools” program. Guests who donate will receive discounted admission for the day to CoCo Key. For each item donated, guests will receive $2 off one admission with a limit of $6 off per admission. For a complete list of acceptable supplies, visit http://cocokeyrockford.com/events.asp.

YWCA of Rockford accepting Nominations for Leader Luncheon XXXIII Awards – Available at 4990 E. State St., Rockford, or download forms at www.ywca.org/rockford/leader-luncheon. Deadline: Jan. 11, 2013, 5 p.m. Info: 815-316-6126.

Get Healthy, Rockton! – Rockton Chamber of Commerce, 330 E. Main St. Northern IL Fit Club and John Sole of Sole Fitness invite Rockton to “Get Healthy” during a Team Beach Body workout every Thursday evening from 7-8 p.m Cardio conditioning, free samples of Shakeology, Results and Recovery, Energy and Endurance offered. Info: 815-200-1116.

Help the Community with Share a Haircut Program – All Hair Cuttery salons in Rockford area, Aug. 1-15. Salon will donate one free haircut to a child in need for every haircut purchased for a child age 18 or younger in partnership with Ill. Dept. of Human Services and other government and nonprofit agencies.

Order Tickets for The Arc’s Great Home Giveaway – Dates: Aug. 4-12. Tickets $20 each, 3 for $50 (thru Aug. 12), 7 for $100, 15 for $200 or 50 for $500. Purchase at The Arc office, 1222 E. State St., at various local outlets, or online at www.RockfordGreatHomeGiveaway.com or call 815-965-3455. Drawing is Nov. 15.

Dogs & Owners Needed for Animal Assisted Therapy Program – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, 5666 E. State St. Date: Saturday, Aug. 11. Dog temperament testing: 8-10 a.m. and 10 a.m.-noon. A 1-3 p.m. time slot will be added if needed. $20 fee for testing, refunded if dog does not pass. Info: 815-227-2500. Deadline to register: Aug. 3.

Wednesday, Aug. 1

“Grand Slam for Health” Back-to-School Health Clinic – Winnebago County Health Department, 555 N. Court St. 3-7 p.m. Physicals for grades Pre-K, kindergarten, 6th, 9th & students new to district. School & sports physicals, $25. Immunizations Pre-K-12th, $16 each. Required dental exams for kindergarten, 2nd & 6th: No charge for dental exam. Info: 815-720-4213 or www.wchd.org.

National Breastfeeding Week begins – Ogle County Health Department, Rochelle Family Video and Culver’s (Rochelle). Aug. 1-7.

Ogle County Fair – Ogle County Fairgrounds, 1440 Limekiln Rd., Oregon. Aug. 1-5. See 4-H animal exhibits compete for prizes on two levels. Antique tractor parade and pull. Gate admission $6/person, $3 wristbands must be purchased at office for carnival rides.

GED Fair – Rockford Career College, Heartland Church complex, 1130 S. Alpine Road. 1-7 p.m. Rock Valley College will conduct assessment sessions for people interested in enrolling in GED preparation classes. Info: www.rockfordgedfair.org or www.rockfordgedfair.com.

Client Appreciation Ice Cream Social – John Morrissey Accountants, Inc., 5919 Spring Creek Road, Rockford. 1:30-5:30 p.m. Info: 815-282-9976.

Good Summer Crafts for Kids – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 2-3 p.m. Ages 5-10. Info: 815-965-7606.

Babes and Books – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 11:15 a.m.-noon. For children under 2. Build baby’s literacy and social skills. Info: 815-965-7606.

Round Table Discussion on Veterans’ Issues – Keen Age Center, 2141 Henry Luckow Lane, Belvidere. 2:30 p.m. with Rep. Joe Sosnowski. Highlighting bipartisan legislation passed in Illinois General Assembly, including initiatives to help veterans find jobs, offering easier access to benefits, and modernization of veterans’ programs. Info: 815-547-3436 or 815-544-9893.

YA Anime Manga Club – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 2-4 p.m. Ages 13-19. Info: 815-965-7606.

Sci-Fi and Sundaes – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 4-5 p.m. Ages 13-19. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

Say It Two Ways – Rockford Public Library, Montague Branch, 1238 S. Winnebago St. 5-6 p.m. Words in English and Spanish. Ages 6-12. Info: 815-965-7606.

Free Figure Skating Exhibition – Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Road. 5:30-6:30 p.m. Twenty-five beginning to senior skill level skaters ages 4-40 from the Park District’s figure skating programs will demonstrate their skills, performed to music. Info: 815-969-4069.

Turning 65: Get the Facts about Medicare – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Ages 50 and older. Info about eligibility, enrollment, types of benefits available, online resources, appeal process, etc. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Hire Me! (4-week class) – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 6-8 p.m. Get help with your resume. Prerequisites: Proficient familiarity with the muse and Internet and an e-mail address. Info: 815-965-7606.

Young Adult Advisory Board Meeting – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Young Adult Zone, 215 N. Wyman St. 6-7 p.m. Ages 13-19. To apply, see Kathi Kresol in Youth Services, or call 815-965-7606, ext. 682 or e-mail her at kkresol@rockcfordpubliclibrary.org.

Create Your Website with WIX – Rockford Public Library, Main Library second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 6-8 p.m. Ages 13 and up. Registration is required. 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.

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

Wild Wednesday – Rockford Speedway,9572 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park. Dollar Beer Night. Road Runner Super Summer Series, Bandits, Figure 8, Spectacular Drags, Misfits, Winged Women on Wheels and Hare ‘N Hound Race. Double features for Bandits and Figure 8 divisions. Spectator gates open at 5:30 with first race at 7:07 p.m. Adult general admission tickets $8; students ages 12-17 are $6, kids ages 6-11 are $4 with kids ages 5 and under admitted free. Info: www.rockfordspeedway.com or 815-633-1500.

Thursday, Aug. 2

Rock Valley College Center for Learning in Retirement Annual Meeting – Bengt Sjostrom (Starlight) Theatre, 3301 N. Mulford Road. 1-3 p.m. Open to public. Find out what the CLR has to offer in classes, bus trips, social events, fitness program and more. Info: 815-921-3931.

FCQ Brewhouse Cruise – Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St. 6-8 p.m. Boat leaves the dock every 30 minutes. Cost: $2/person; snacks on board. Every Thurs. in August. Info: 815-987-8894 or 815-987-1685.

Northern IL Voters Forum Movie Night – New Life Tabernacle Church, 5414 Reimer Drive, Roscoe. 6:30 p.m. Michael Chapman film in the series on “Education for Sustainable Tyranny.” Public is welcome. Free. Info: 815-277/1144.

Look, Listen, and Learn Storytime – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 11:15 am.-12:15 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

Preschool Storytime – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. Noon-12:45 p.m. For ages 3-5. Info: 815-965-7606.

Finding Grants for a Non-Profit Organization – Rockford Public Library, Main Library second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 2-3:30 p.m. Must be proficient using the Internet. Info: 815-965-7606.

Creative Coping for Grieving Kids – Northern Illinois Hospice & Grief Center, 4215 Newburg Road. 3-4:30 p.m. Cost $10. Info: 815-398-0500.

Scavenger Hunt Class – Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road. Every Thurs. Aug. 2 to Oct. 25, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Cost: $10/class, non-members or $130 for the session; $8/class, members, or $104 for the session. Age 6 or older without adult, 5 or younger with an adult. Info: 815-316-3307.

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.

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.

Babes and Books – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Children’s Area, 6685 E. State St. 6-6:45 p.m. Children younger than 2. Develop your baby’s literacy and social skills. Info: 815-965-7606.

Swing Dancing – Mt. Olive Lutheran Church, 2001 N. Alpine Road. 8-10:30 p.m. Every Thurs. Info: www.forestcityswing.org.

Celebrate National Breastfeeding Week – Connolly Park, 200-215 Gary Ave., Rochelle. 2-5 p.m. Raffles, ice cream, educational information. Info: 815-732-7330, ext. 279 or 815-562-6979.

Summer Teen’Scape – Rockford Public Library, Montague Branch, 1238 S. Winnebago St. 2-5 p.m. Ages 10-19. Play games on Wii or Playstation, surf the Internet, play board games. Info: 815-965-7606.

Bilingual Thursdays Storytime (Spanish/English) – Rockford Public Library, Rock River Branch, 3128 11th St., 4-4:45 p.m. Ages 3-8. 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.

Sunset Storytime – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 5-5:45 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

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, Aug. 3

Garage Sale to Benefit Haitian Project – Second Congregational Church, 318 N. Church St. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Many household items, kids’ toys, clothing, etc. Info: 815-963-8431.

LEGO Lovers – Discovery Center Museum, Riverfront Museum Park, 711 N. Main St. 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Building projects with LEGOs. All activities are included with Museum admission: $7 adults; $7 children; free to Museum members and children age 1 and younger.

Rockford City Market – Water Street by Jefferson. 3-8 p.m. every Friday thru Oct. 12. Local growers and vendors selling natural products, vegetables, fruit, eggs, meat, cheeses, flowers, herbs, baked goods, snacks, wines. Beer garden. Music by Empty Pockets. Activity by Macaroni Kid & Auburn Key Club.

Grab ‘N Go Lunch Cruise – Trolley Station, Riverview Park, 324 N. Madison St. Every Friday Lunch Cruise on the Forest City Queen. 11:15 a.m. 12:15 and 1 p.m. Prices: Adults $8 ($8.50 non-resident); ages 5-17, $7.50 ($8 non-resident); ages 4 and younger, $5. No reservations needed; walk-ups welcome. Specialty cruises or private rentals also available. Info: 815-987-8800.

Movie: Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days – Lindo Theater, 115 S. Chicago Ave., Freeport. Info: 815-233-0025.

Healthy Living with Chronic Illness – Rockford Public Library, Montague Branch, 1238 S. Winnebago St. 1-3:30 p.m. Ages 18 and older. Six-week program; registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

“Four Wheel Fridays” Cruise Night – Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery, Clock Tower Resort, 7801 E. State St. 5-8 p.m. Owners of classic muscle cars, rare antiques, tricked-out trucks, custom motorcycles, other interesting modes of transportation are invited to come and display their vehicle. Free. Exhibitors receive special discounts on food at Tilted Kilt and chance to win prizes. Participants should preregister at www.tiltedkiltrockford.com.

Sixth Annual Great Golf Ball Drop – Aldeen Golf Club, 1902 Reid Farm Road. 6:13 p.m. Grand prize of $2,500, other prizes. Sponsored by Culver’s. Entry fee of $5 per ball; may enter multiple times. Info: www.rockford parkdistrict.org/gbdrop.

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.

Festa Italiana – Boylan Central Catholic High School, 4000 St. Francis Drive. 5-11 p.m. Micheal Castaldo, Amici Italiani Adult Italian Folk Dancers, Soco 7, Audio Drive. Admission $5. Info: www.griaa.com.

Movies in the Park: Bedtime Stories – Lena Community Park District, Lena, Ill. 8:30 p.m. Info: 815-369-5351.

Comedy Night – Franchesco’s, 7128 Spring Creek Road. 8 p.m. Info: 815-229-0800.

Saturday, Aug. 4

“Life is a Highway” Memorial Ride part Deuce – American Legion, 900 W. Chrysler Drive, Belvidere. Includes poker run, raffles, silent auction. Benefit for Easter Seals Autism Therapeutic School in Rockford. Info: 815-978-2334.

“Hammer In” Festival – John Deere Historic Site, 8334 Clinton St., Grand Detour, Dixon, Ill. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Two-day event. Blacksmiths from around the Midwest will gather to commemorate the blacksmith who founded the company 175 years ago. Blacksmith demonstrations and charity auction. Admission: $5 ages 12 and older. Info: 815-652-4551.

Festa Italiana – Boylan Central Catholic High School, 4000 St. Francis Drive. Noon-11 p.m. Tony Spavone, Amici Italiani Youth & Adult Italian Folk Dancers, Radio Stars, Mr. Big Stuff. Late afternoon: Vince Chiarelli Band. Admission: $5. Info: www.griaa.com.

Garage Sale to Benefit Haitian Project – Second Congregational Church, 318 N. Church St. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Many household items, kids’ toys, clothing, etc. Info: 815-963-8431.

Car Show & Youth Car Wash – Roscoe United Methodist Church, 10816 Main St., Roscoe. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Open to all makes and models. Prizes, food, fun. Info: 815-742-1174.

Store Opening for Midwest Rail Junction Model Railroad Hobby Shop – Edgebrook Shopping Centre, 1611 N. Alpine Road. Hours: 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.,Mon.-Sat. Info: 815-963-0200.

Walking Tour of Angelic Organics – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Pre-register. Cost: $22. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Rockford Area Spanish Conversation Meetup – Katie’s Cup, 502 Seventh St. 10 a.m.-noon. Every Saturday. Info: malonett@gmail.com.

Geocaching Event Day – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Noon-5 p.m. All ages. Meet at Jarrett Center; at least one adult per team. Free. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Cheesemaking – Angelic Organics, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. 1:30-4:30 p.m. Pre-register. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

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

4-H Market Animal & Quality Meats Auction – Ogle County Fairgrounds, Oregon, Ill. 3 p.m. Live animals may be purchased. Pork, lamb, chicken and rabbit carcasses sold whole. Beef carcasses sold by halves. Info: 815-732-2191.

Mosaic Student Film Festival 2012 – Rockford Theatre, 323 Park Ave. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., screenings at 7. Door prizes given for donated items at the door to support local charities.Tickets: $5, available at the door. Info: 815-742-7410 or www.mosaicfilmfest.com.

Yoga Nidra – Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. 9-10 a.m. Age 14 and up, females and males. Fee: $13, members $12. Learn deep relaxation. Info: 815-877-0118.

Adult Grief Support Group – Beloit Regional Hospice, 655 Third St., Suite 200, Beloit, Wis. 10-11:30 a.m. Open to anyone in the community who has experienced a death. No charge, but advance registration is required. Info: 608-363-7421 or 877-363-7421.

Fourth Annual Fairy Festival – Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. 5-8 p.m. Age 13 and older: $15 advance, $20 at gate. Age 4-12: $10 advance, $15 at gate. Age 3 & younger: Free. With Rockford Dance Company. Crafts, scavenger hunt, food, fairies. Bring a picnic. Event has been sold out in the past; advance purchase recommended. Info: 815-877-0118.

U of I Openfields Local Foods Dinner – Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road. 6 p.m. Cost: $50 per person, vegetarian option available. Catered by Toni’s of Winnebago. Part of the proceeds will be donated to Severson Dells. Reserve at 815-986-4357 or 815-235-4125 or http://web.extension.illinois.edu/jsw.

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.

World Famous Figure 8 Trailer Race of Destruction – Rockford Speedway, 9572 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park. Trucks, SUVs and vans pull campers, boats and more ; participants attempt to knock the trailers off their competitors’ vehicles. National TV crews will be filming this event. Racing features Late Models, Sportsmen, American Short Trackers and Road Runers as well as the Toll Booth Race. Spectator gates open at 5, qualifying begins at 5:55 with the first race at 7:07 p.m. Reserved adult tickets in main grandstands are $24 for seats with backs, $18 for seats without backs. Main grandstand seating for those ages 11 and younger are $12 for seats with backs, $9 for seats without backs. Bleacher seating is also reserved seating; adult tickets, $15 and kids’ tickets (ages 11 and younger) $5 each. Info: www.rockfordspeedway.com or 815-633-1500.

Sunday, Aug. 5

Little Cubs Third Annual Charity Challenge Homerun Derby – Little Cubs Field, 1160 W. Empire St., Freeport. 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Charities raise money and try to break last year’s record of 3,814 home runs in one day. Info: www.littlecubsfield.com.

“Hammer In” Festival – John Deere Historic Site, 8334 Clinton St., Grand Detour, Dixon, Ill. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Two day event. Blacksmiths from around the Midwest will gather to commemorate the blacksmith who founded the company 175 years ago. Blacksmith demonstrations and charity auction. Admission: $5 ages 12 and older. Info: 815-652-4551.

Festa Italiana – Boylan Central Catholic High School, 4000 St. Francis Drive. Noon-8:30 p.m. Amici Italiani Youth & Adult Italian Folk Dancers, Vince Amore, Jaime Campbell and the Redneck Romeos. Late afternoon: Vince Chiarelli Band. Admission: $5. Info: www.griaa.com.

Monday, Aug. 6

Public Hearing regarding Illinois Health Facilities Planning Act – Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St. 1 p.m. Concerning the closing of H. Douglas Singer Mental Health Center. Open to the public. Info: 217-782-3516.

Puppet Camp – Court Street United Methodist Church, 215 N. Court St. Aug. 6-10, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Children make their own puppets, then take part in a puppet show. Grades K-8; all skill levels. Fee: $5. Info: 815-962-6061.

Tutor Workshop Series – The Literacy Council, 982 N. Main St. Six classes, Mondays and Wednesdays, begin today at 5:30 p.m. Info: 815-963-READ.

What’s Cookin’ on the Farm Day Camp – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Dates: July 30-Aug. 2, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Ages 6-12. Pre-register. Cost: $170. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Playing with Your Food Day Camp – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Aug. 6-9, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost: $170. Pre-register. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Senior Facebook (3-week class) – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. Noon-3 p.m. Ages 55 and older. Must be proficient at using a computer and the Internet. Info: 815-965-7606.

“Dealing with Drought in the Home Landscape” – University of Illinois Extension–Ogle County, 421 W. Pines Road, Oregon. 6 p.m. Free. Register at 815-732-2191 or http://web.extension.illinois.edu/bdo/

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

Microsoft Excel 2010 – (3-week class) – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 6-8 p.m. Age 13 and older. Prerequisite: Proficient familiarity with computers and Internet. Must have an e-mail address. Info: 815-965-7606.

Messy Mondays: Coffee Filter Butterflies with Tasha Neisewander – Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Fee included with Museum admission: $7 adults, $7 children (ages 2-17); free to Museum members and children age 1 and younger. Info: 815-963-6769.

Free Pool – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. 9 p.m. Info: 815-877-8007.

Tuesday, Aug. 7

Boone County Fair Opens – Boone County Fairgrounds, 8791 Rt. 76, one mile north of Belvidere. Runs thru Aug. 12. Info: www.boonecountyfair.com.

Neighborhood Open House – Harlem Community Center’s Hand-N-Hand Childcare Center, 8301 Mitchell Road, Roscoe. 6-7:30 p.m. Neighborhood Centers Alliance celebrates 20th anniversary.

Summer Teen ‘Scape – Rockford Public Library, Rock River Branch, 3128 11th St. 2-5 p.m. Ages 10-19. Play games on Wii or Playstation, surf the Internet, play board games. Info; 815-965-7606.

“First and Third” Open Art Studio – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 5-7 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

Jr. RiverHawks Tryouts – RiverHawks Stadium, 4503 Interstate Blvd., Loves Park. Aug. 7 and 8, 5:30-8 p.m. Info: 815-885-2255 or 815-980-6219.

Information Session on U of I Extension Master Naturalist Program – Cherry Valley Public Library, 755 E. State St. 5:30 p.m. Free, but pre-registration is requested. Info: 815-986-4357 or jbatista@illinois.edu.

Hand-n-Hand Child Care Center Open House – 8301 Mitchell Road, Machesney Park. 6-7:30 p.m. Celebrating five years of offering quality child care. Info: 815-l885-4214.

Happy in School – Rockford Public Library, Rock River Branch, 3128 11th St. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Ages 2-12. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

HAPPY: The Movie – Womanspace Library/Media Room, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free $12 (members $10). Info: 815-877-0118.

Public Tours of Coronado Performing ts Center – Coronado PAC, 314 N. Main St. 7 p.m. $7. Reservations/Info: 815-968-2722, ext. 17.

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 Aug. 1-7, 2012, issue