Community Calendar: Week of Sept. 26-Oct. 2, 2012

Fall Attractions

Amenti Haunted House – Egyptian Theatre, 135 N. Second St., DeKalb. Ages 12 and older. Open at 7 p.m., Oct. 19-21, 26-28, 30-31. $13. Info: 815-758-1215.

Curran’s Apple Orchard – 6385 Kilburn Ave. Open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily until first weekend in December. Info: 815-963-7848.

Edwards Apple Orchard – 7061 Centerville Road, Poplar Grove. Open daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m. from Labor Day to end of October, and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. in November, closing the weekend of Thanksgiving. Info: 815-765-2234.

Edwards Apple Orchard West – 8218 Cemetery Road, Winnebago. Open daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m. from Labor Day to end of October, and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. in November, closing the weekend of Thanksgiving. Info: 815-963-2261.

Fear Asylum Haunted House – Belvidere Park District (William Grady Pool), 916 W. Lincoln Ave., Belvidere. Ages 13 and older. 7-11 p.m., Fri. Sat. and Halloween; and 7-10 p.m., Sun. Thurs., Sept. 28, Oct. 5-7, 12-14, 18-21, 24-31. $10/$15. Info: 815-965-6772.

Fright Factory – 1405 Riverside St., Janesville, Wis. Ages 13 and older. 7-10:30 p.m., Fri. and Sat.; 7-9:30 p.mk., Thurs., Oct. 25 and Sun., Oct. 28; Oct. 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 25-28. $13 or $18 Fright Pass (go to front of line). Info: 608-754-5879.

Hopper’s Haunted House – 11576 Route 2, Rockford. 7p.m.-midnight, Fri.-Sat; and 7-10 p.m., Sun.-Thurs., Oct. 5-6, 12-13, 19-21, 24-31. $10. Info: 815-871-7334.

The Pumpkin Patch – 3178 Illinois Rt. 173, Caledonia. Open 7 days a week, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. in Sept. and 9 am-.7 p.m.in Oct. Admission to grounds, petting zoo and barn is free Mon.-Fri.; $3 per person and free for children 2 and younger and adults 65 and older, Sat. and Sun. Additional fee for rides & attractions. Info: 815-765-2587.

Screamatorium Haunted House – Screamatorium Haunted House, Arte Verde Garden Center, 15630 Ill. Route 76, Poplar Grove. Ages 13 and older. 7-11 p.m., Fri., Sat. and Halloween; 7-10 p.m., Sun.-Thurs., Sept. 28, Oct. 5-7, 12-14, 18-21, 24-31. $10/$15. Info: 815-965-6772.

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.

Atwood Environmental Center – 2685 New Milford School Road, Rockford. Now open Saturdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. with feeding time for Birds of Prey at 1. Info: 815-874-7576.

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., l8 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.

Boy Scouts of America – Camping opportunities at Crystal Lake Scout Reservation. Info: 715-490-2241.

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. Info: 815-398-6000.

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. 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.

Elite Defense Systems Self-
Defense Center – 5695 Strathmoor Drive. Daily classes. Now offering special after-school program for students’ character building using martial arts. Info: 815-885-4758.

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.

FitMe Wellness – Next to Hilander, Spring Creek & Mulford roads. New program to support our schools. For each new, recurring membership sold before Sept. 30, 2012, FitMe Wellness will donate $10 to the Parent-Teacher Organization of the school of the new member’s choice. For any teacher or school employee who joins, the donation to the PTO of his or her choice will be doubled to $20. Info: 815-904-6000.

Forest City Brewers – Monthly meetings first Wed. of each month, 7 p.m. at Thunder Bay Grille, 7652 Potawatomi Trail. “Tasters Guild” meetings at 7 p.m. third Wed. of each month at Der Rathskeller, 1132 Auburn St. Info/membership: www.forestcitybrewers.org or info@forestcitybrewers.org.

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

Freeport/Stephenson County Visitors Center – U.S. 20, east of Freeport. Hours: 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Expo now exhibiting: “Bank On It,” featuring four local banking institutions.

Goodwill Industries of Northern Illlinois – Bon-Ton Semi-annual Goodwill Sale – Runs from Sept. 12-29 at participating stores. Bergners, CherryVale, 7200 Harrison Ave., Rockford; Bergner’s , 8790 N. Second St., Machesney Park. Customers will receive a discount coupon for each item of clothing or textile donated. You can also register support online at www.millionactsofgoodwill.com and receive a coupon for a 25 percent discount to use at any BonTon store.

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

Group Hope Depression Bipolar Meetings – St. Edward Church, 3004 11th St. 6:15-7:45 p.m. Every Friday. Info: 815-398-9628.

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.

Junior StreetHogs Arena – Booker Washington Community Center, 524 Kent St. Outreach street hockey program for youth. Info: 815-969-4072.

Ken-Rock Community Center – 3218 11th St. Various activities throughout the year. Now offering Zumba Fitness classes every Mon. and Fri., 9-10 a.m. $5 per class. 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 Hospice & Grief Center – 4215 Newburg Road. Various support groups for children, teens and adults starting in October. Info: 815-398-0500.

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.

OSF St. Anthony Center for Health Classes – 5510 E. State St. “Anything Goes” on Saturdays has been changed to “Body Combat.” New: ZumbAtomic Children’s Zumba class added on Sundays. Tues./Thurs. morning Zumba classes now offered from 7:30-8:30 a.m. Other classes available. Info: 815-395-4591.

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.

Rock River Valley Blood Center – 419 N. Sixth St. Mon.-Thurs., 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri., 6:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Sat., 7-11 a.m. Belvidere Donor Center – 1740 S. State St. Mon.-Tues., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Wed.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Fri. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Second Sat. of each month, 7-11 a.m. Freeport Donor Center – 461 E. South St. Mon.-Tues., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Thurs.-Fri. 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Second Sat. of each month, 7- 11 a.m. Perryville Donor Center – 3065 N. Perryville Road. Mon.-Thurs., 6:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Fri. 8 a.m.- 1 p.m. Sat. 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Info: 815-965-8751 or 866-889-9037 or www.rrvbc.org.

ROCK Swim and Fitness – 3800 E. State St. Zumba classes, 9 a.m. Tuesdays. Age 14 and older. $5 drop-in fee for non-members. Info: 815-381-0765.

Rock Valley Ski Association – Thunder Bay Grille, 7652 Potawatomi Trail. Meets second Tues. of each month. Info: www.SkiRockford.org.

Rockford Public Library – 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. Tues., Thurs., Noon.-6 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; closed Sat. 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. Open for tours every Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-624-8200 or 815-629-2210.

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.

Spectrum of Rockford – Harmony Center for Holistic Psychotherapy, 6625 N. Second St., Loves Park. Various LGBTQA groups. Fall LGBT support group meets Thursdays from 7:30-9 p.m. Info: 815-639-0312.

Stephenson County Museum – 1440 S. Carroll Ave., Freeport. Admission: $4 adults, $2 children up to age 12. Coming in Oct.: Local History and Writers Series, Oct. 4, 10, 16, 22. 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: 815-639-0300.

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. 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. Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 3-8 p.m., Fri., 3-9 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., noon-8 p.m. 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.

Winnebago County Health Department – For flu clinic schedule and prices, go to www.wchd.org or call 815-720-4264.

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 Rockford Park District Youth Indoor Volleyball – Indoor Sports Center, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park. Sessions begin Oct. 28 for ages 5-8. Fee: $40/person ($50 non-resident). Ages 8-11, sessions begin Oct. 26. Ages 11-14, Oct. 26. Fee: $65/person ($75 non-resident). Sessions also offered in January and February for ages 8-11. Info: 815-987-8800.

Registration for Freeport Park District Programs – Youth Archery League for ages 7-18. Roller Skating Lessons, Tues. evenings, Oct. 2-23. Martial Arts classes beginning in October: Shaolin Kempo, Little Ninjas, Tae Kwon Do (beg. & Inter.) and Adults. Deadline to register: Sept. 28. Learn to Waltz Ballroom Dance classes at Krape Park Community Building, Oct. 23-Nov. 6. Register by Oct. 16. Info: 815-235-6114, ext. 109.

Registration for Yoga Classes for adults or After-School Programming for kids – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Yoga classes will be a flowing, energetic style called Prana Yoga.Youth programs will include an animals series in September and a cooking series in October. Info/Register: 815-389-8455. Classes will coincide with weekly pick-up of fresh vegetables. Info: 815-389-2746 or www.angelicorganics.com.

Reservations for East Troy Electric Railroad’s “Dinner Train” – Depot at East Troy, Wis. Dates: Oct. 6, 13, 20. Departs at 5:30 p.m., returns two hours later. Cost: $72/person (sales tax included). Dinner includes cash bar serving wine and craft beers if desired. Reservations required. Info: 262-642-3263.

Registration for Fall Golf and Life Skill Lessons – The First Tee at Alpine Hills Practice Center. Dates: Sept. 27, Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25. 4:30-6 p.m. Open to children ages 7-18. Registration fee: $90; pay to chapter office. Info: 815-965-5057 or e-mail the chapter at info@thefirstteegreaterrockford.org.

Registration for Trip to Kenosha, Wis. – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Oct. 6, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. All ages. Meet at Jarrett Center. $10/person or $15/couple. Register by Sept. 28. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Reservations for The Orchid Gala “Groovin’ in the Tropics” – Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. Second St., Rockford. Date: Sept. 29, 6-10 p.m. Featuring the bands Starlite Radio and Hey Champ. Cocktail attire, cash bar, silent auction. Proceeds benefiting the Rockford Park District Foundation and Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens. Info: 815-987-1632.

Registration for Fossil Hunt at Vulcan Quarry – Midwest Museum of Natural History, 425 W. State St., Sycamore. Date: Sept 29, 9:30-11 a.m. Keep whatever you find. Non-members: $20/person or $55 for family of 3-4. Members: $8/person or $50 for family of 3-4. Ages 6 and up (children must have an adult present). Payment must be taken at registration. Info: 815-895-9777.

Registration for Walking Tour of Angelic Organics – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Date: Sept. 29, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Pre-register. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Registration for Annual Easter Seals Walk With Me Rockford – YMCA Log Log Lodge. Date: Sept. 29 Walk of 1-1/2 miles starts at Rock River Rec Path at 8:30 a.m. To raise funds for Easter Seals Autism Therapeutic School in Rockford. To sign up to walk or start a team, go to www.walkwithme.org/Rockford or call 815-965-6745.

Registration for Canoe the Rock – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Sept. 29, 2-5 p.m. All equipment provided; all ages. Cost: $20/canoe. Meet at Heritage Farm Museum. Minimum of one adult per canoe. Register by Sept. 28. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for Pies: Sweet and Savory – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Date: Sept. 29, 2-7 p.m. Pre-register. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

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

Registration for Preschool Fresh Food from the Farm: Apple Adventures – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Dates: Oct. 3-Jan. 10-11:30 a. m. Pre-register. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Registration for Afterschool Fun at the Farm: Cooking! – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Dates: Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24. Time: 4-5 p.m. Pre-register. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Registration for Community Foundation Annual Dinner – Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road. Date: Oct. 3, social hour 5 p.m. , dinner and program at 6. Tickets: $40 each; $15 from each ticket benefits the Eunice Wishop Stromberg Spelling Bee Endowment. Info: 815-962-2110, ext. 12.

Registration for Prana Flow Yoga – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Dates: Oct. 3,10, 17, 24. 4-15-5:15 p.m. Pre-register. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Registration for Yoga and Tai Chi at Nicholas Conservatory – Rockford Park District programs for ages 16 and older in four- or five-week sessions. Yoga: Oct. 4-25 and Nov. 1-29: $32 ($40 non-resident). Tai Chi: Oct. 3-24 and Nov. 7-28; $32 ($40 non-resident). Register at least one week in advance for each session: www.rockfordparkdistrict.org (click Register Now), by mail, fax, or at Customer Service locations. Info: 815-987-8800.

Registration for Website Workshop – Heritage Center, Lanark. Date: Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-noon. Sponsored by Blackhawk Hills Regional Council. Open to public; free. Register at 815-625-3854 or melanie.flesch@blackhawkhills.com.

Registration for RAEDC Coffee Talk: Chairman Scott Christiansen and Mayor Larry Morrissey – Eisenhower Middle School, 3525 Spring Creek Road. Oct. 4, 7-9 a.m. Special guest: Mayor of Lidkoping, Sweden. Register by Oct. 2. Info: 815-969-4255.

Registration for RVC Booster Club “Taste the Hops” Fund-raiser – Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, 200 S. Bell School Road. Date: Oct. 5, 7-11 p.m. Dinner, dancing, dessert. Sample unique beers. Tickets: $40, available in advance at 815-921-3801. Tables of 10 available. Proceeds to benefit Rock Valley College Booster Club.

Order Tickets for 48th Annual German Society Oktoberfest – Loves Park City Hall, 100 Heart Blvd. Dates: Oct. 5-6. Tickets: $5 advance for two-day festival or $5 a day at the gate. VIP Party Packs available for $35 each. Tickets available at all area Logli and Hilander locations, Der Rathskeller and Advanced Machine in Rockford. Info: www.germanoktoberfest.org.

Memorial Event – No Registration Needed: “A Walk to Remember” –YMCA Log Lodge, Sinnissippi Bike Path. Date: Oct. 7. Program at 1 p.m. Memorial walk to remember children lost through miscarriage, stillbirth, infant and childhood death. Sponsored by SwedishAmerican Foundation and Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory. Info: 815-489-4420 or 815-226-2273.

Reservations for Wine Tasting Benefit for La Voz Latina – Artale Wine Co., 6876 Spring Creek Road. Date: Oct. 12, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Sample Latin-inspired food, wine and beer. $15 at the door. Info: 815-965-5784.

Registration for Third Annual Stone Bridge Trail Marathon & 5K Races – Date: Saturday, Oct. 13, 7 a.m. Limited to 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.

Registration for Shelter Care Ministries Soup-r-Fest Challenge – Shelter Care Ministries, Park Avenue and Court Street. Date: Oct. 13, 2-5 p.m. Who has the best soup recipe? Live music from Park District Showmobile, children’s activities, vendors. Admission: $5, children younger than 6, free. Space still available for marketplace vendors. Info: 815-964-5520.

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. 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.

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 Wednesday evening from 7-8 p.m. Cardio conditioning, free samples of Shakeology, Results and Recovery, Energy and Endurance offered. Info: 815-200-1116.

Registration for Computer Classes at Ken-Rock – Ken-Rock Community Center, 3218 11th St. Various classes offered Sept. 18-Dec. 20. Info: 815-398-8864 or kenrock.org.

Registration for Seminar: “How To Be Thin, Rich and Happy in Just 3 Minutes” – Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Date: Oct. 3, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Hosted by Rockford Retirement Resource Center. Cost: $30. Info: 815-633-9595 or www.rockfordretirement.com or www.rockvalleycollege.edu/ceonline.

Registration for Home School class: Migrate – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Oct. 5, 9-11:30 a.m. Meet at Jarrett Center. Ages 6-14. Register by Oct. 1. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for Home School class: Finding patterns – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Oct. 5, noon-12:30 p.m. Meet at Jarrett Center. Ages 6-14. Cost $5. Register by Oct. 1. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for Discovery Center’s Second Annual Family Ball Fund-raiser – Discovery Center, 711 N. Main St. Date: Oct. 6- 6-10 p.m. Theme: “Tropical Paradise.” Guests: Aloha Hula Girls. Scavenger hunt, shark dissection, create your own volcano, silent auction, games. Cost: $30/person; all ages. Reserve at: 815-972-2839 or http://www.discovercentermuseum.org.

Registration for Baseball Prospect Showcase – Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Dates: Oct. 6 and 7. Cost: $50. Showcase only. Not a two-day camp; choose which day to attend. Pro-style workout. Register/Info: 815-921-3820.

Registration for Ornamental Grasses – Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St. Date: Oct. 13, 9-11 a.m. Learn which grasses suit our climate. Cost: $15 public, $12 Klehm members. Info: 815-965-8146.

Registration for Growing Native Plants From Seed – Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St. Date: Oct. 13, 9-11 a.m. Learn how to start native plants indoors from seed. Cost: $15 public, $12 Klehm members. Info: 815-965-8146.

Registration for Animal Day for Families – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Date: Oct. 13, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Pre-register. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Registration for Hands-on Small Wind Workshop – Illinois Renewable Energy Association,1230 E. Honey Creek Road, Oregon, Ill. Date: Oct. 13. Participants will take down, disassemble and reassemble a 1-Kw Bergey wind generator. Lunch provied. Cost: $20 IREA members, $40 non-members. Pre-register. Info: 815-732-7332 or sonia@essex1.com.

Registration for Contests at Boone County Harvest Fest – Belvidere Park. Date: Oct. 13, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Contest entry forms for Scarecrow, Costume, Cupcake Decorating, Pie Eating contests. Cash awards and prizes. Info: 815-547-4252 or www.boonecountyharvestfest.com.

Registration for Assessing Risks & Resources to Start a Small Farm or Market Garden – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. Date: Oct. 14, 1-5 p.m. Pre-register. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Registration for “Putting the Garden to Bed” – U of I Extension Ogle County, 421 W. Pines Road, Oregon. Date: Oct. 17, 5-6 p.m. Cost: $5. Pre-registration required by Oct. 15. Info: 815-732-2191.

Registration for 76th Annual NAACP State Convention – Theme: “Your Power, Your Decision, Your Vote…” Dates: Oct. 19-21. Oct. 19: Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, 200 S. Bell School Road. Convention, commencement & mass meeting. Oct. 20: Holiday Inn, 7550 E. State St. Workshop & panel discussion ; keynote speakers at Rockford College and luncheon. State convention dinner at Radisson, 6 p.m. Info: 779-772-8092.

Registration for Crusader Community Health’s “4 Decades of Ahhs, Heart, Brains, Courage” – Giovanni’s Restaurant, 610 N. Bell School Road. Date: Oct. 19, 5:45-10 p.m. Cost: $100/person or $1,000 for table of 10. Purchase online at www.crusaderhealth.org. Includes music, autumn-themed dinner, announcement of “Spirit of Caring” Award winners, silent auction.

Buy Tickets for Shantala Sacred Chant Public Performance – Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 Third Ave. Date: Oct. 19, 7 p.m. Tickets: $15-$25. Info: 815-963-4815 or emmanuelchurch7A@aol.com.

Registration for Goblin Gobble at Nicholas Conservatory – 1354 N. Second St. Date: Oct. 20, 8-9:30 a.m. Family-friendly pumpkin-themed breakfast. Seasonal craft project. Cost: $8 ($10 non-resident). Register by Oct. 13, either online at www.rockfordparkdistrict.org or by mail, fax (using credit card) or at Customer Service locations in downtown Rockford, or Carlson Ice Arena, Riverside and Perryville, Loves Park. Or call 815-987-8858.

Registration for Hoop House for Winter Hardy Vegetables – Illinois Renewable Energy Association, 1230 E. Honey Creek Road, Oregon. Date: Oct. 20. Learn how to grow and preserve produce. Lunch provided. Cost: $10, IREA embers, $30 non-members. Pre-register. Info: 815-732-7332 or sonia@essex1.com.

Registration for 27th Annual Rockford Area CROP Hunger Walk – Riverfront Museum Park, 711 N. Main St. Date: Oct. 21, register at 1 p.m., step off at 2 p.m. Info: 815-540-3703 or davidj6226@aol.com.

Registration for “Do You Want a Tax-Free Retirement?” – Rock Valley College, Community Education, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Date: Oct. 24, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Cost: $30. Info: 815-921-3900.

Registration for “Building Your Global Growth Strategy: Permanent Tax Savings Locally & Overseas” – NIU Rockford campus, 8500 E. State St. Date: Oct. 31, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For executive leadership looking to advance their global trade strategy. Complimentary lunch included. Register at 815-969-4267or online at tenglish@rockfordil.com.

Local Authors Needed for Charity Market V – St. Rita’s Church, 6254 Valley Knoll Drive, Rockford. Date: Nov. 17, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Authors will join quality artists and crafters. Sign up now! Info: 815-397-5509.

The Literacy Council Needs Volunteer Tutors – Sign up for New Tutor Workshop Series (six classes) beginning Oct. 2, Tues. & Thurs. at 12:30 p.m., North Suburban District Library, 6340 N. Second St., Loves Park. Info: 815-963-READ (7323).

Registration for RVC Dental Hygiene Clinic for Children – Rock Valley College, Stenstrom Center, 4151 Samuelson Road. Dental exams for children ages 5-12. Cost: $38-$53. Info: 815-921-3235.

Reminder: Oct. 9 is the deadline to register to vote in the Nov. 6 General Election.

Registration for Fall Tot Spot Classes – Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St. Various classes available, $12 for public and $10 for Discovery Center members. Info: 815-963-6769 to register.

Event Rescheduled: Pig & Pie in the Park, hosted by Sojourn House, has been rescheduled to Oct. 27 in Read Park, Freeport, from noon to 7 p.m. Barbecue cookoff, apple baking competition, bags tournament, bounce house, live music, face and pumpkin painting. Admission $5 adults; children age 8 and younger are free. Info: 815-238-5141.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Curves clubs will offer a $0 joining fee for new members who show proof of a mammogram performed within the last year, or who donate $25 to the American Cancer Society. Participating clubs are: Curves of Roscoe, 5348 Williams Drive, 815-623-1300, and Curves of Rockford, 2430 S. Alpine Road, 815-484-0858.

Wednesday, Sept. 26

Rockford Mass Transit District Board of Trustees meeting – Administration building, 420 Mulberry St. 7:45 a.m.

Leadership Café with Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence (NICNE) – Burpee Center, Rockford College, 5050 E. State St. Free for NICNE members, $15 for non-members. RSVP five days in advance. Info: 815-394-4384.

League of Women Voters of Greater Rockford Voter Registration – Rock Valley Learning and Opportunity Center, Downtown Campus, 30p8 W. State St. 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

“Fun at the Farm: Animals!” – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. 4-5:30 p.m. Pre-Register. Info: 815-3898-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.

Prana Flow Yoga – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. 4:15-5:15 p.m. Pre-Register. Info: 815-3898-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.

“I on Diabetes” U of I Workshop – University of Illinois Extension Ogle County, 421 W. Pines Road, Oregon. Dates: Sept. 26, Oct. 3, Oct. 10. Cost: $40 for series. Pre-registration by Sept. 12. Class size is limited. Info: 815-732-2191.

Lunch and Learn: World Religion Series: Taoism & Confucianism – Womanspace, Fountain View Room, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Noon-1 p.m. With Professor Kanwal Prashar. Fee: $12, Members, $10. Bring a sack lunch. Info: 815-877-0118.

Brain Workshop: “Head Strong: Exercise Strategies to Enhance Memory and Thinking” – U of I Extension-Winnebago County, 1040 N. Second St., Rockford. 1:30-3 p.m. $5/person. Register at 815-986-4357 or http://web.extension.illinois.edu/jsw.

Preschool Fresh Food from the Farm: Totally Tomatoes!– Angelic Organics Learning Center,1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. 10-11:30 a.m. Pre-register at 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Planning for Retirement and Beyond – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Friends Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Ages 18 and older. 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.

Beginning Computer for the Absolute Beginner – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 2-4 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Info: 815-965-7606.

Beloit Regional Hospice hosts Business After Hours – Beloit Regional Hospice, 655 Third St., Suite 200, Beloit, Wis. 5-7 p.m. Information about many services will be available. Cost: $5 for members of Greater Beloit Chamber of Commerce and $10 for non-members. Light refreshments; door prizes.

Sunset Storytime – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Children’s Area, 6685 E. State St. 6:30-7:15 p.m. Ages 3-7. Info: 815-965-7606.

LOL (Library Out Loud) Club – Rockford Public Library, Montague Branch, 1238 S. Winnebago St. 5-6 p.m. Ages 6-12. Texting with reading, learning, discovering and crafts. Info: 815-965-7606.

High School Planning Guide Forum – Auburn High School, 5110 Auburn St. 6-8 p.m.

Campaign Rally for State’s Attorney Joe Bruscato – Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, 200 S. Bell School Road. 5:30-7 p.m. With guest Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan. Info: 779-423-1185.

YA Movie Night – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Auditorium, 215 N. Wyman St. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Ages 13-19. Info: 815-965-7606.

DigiPhoto – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 6-8 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Bring your camera with memory card, all cables and power cord or charger and instruction booklet. Info: 815-965-7606.

Holistic Moms Network: Help Get Kids Outside – JustGoods Listening Room, 201 Seventh St., 7-9 p.m. Guest Jamie Johanssen of Winnebago County Forest Preserve District. Free.

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

Thursday, Sept. 27

Tutoring/Mentoring Program Assembly – Lincoln Middle School, 1500 Charles St. 10-10:30 a.m. Featuring Bob Guirl of UTC Aerospace Systems (Hamilton Sundstrand).

I Love My Farm! – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. Noon-12:45 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

Fall Golf and Life Skill Lessons – The First Tee at Alpine Hills Practice Center. Dates: Sept. 27, Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25. 4:30-6 p.m. Open to children ages 7-18. Registration fee: $90; pay to chapter office. Info: 815-965-5057 or e-mail the chapter at info@thefirstteegreaterrockford.org.

Yoga for Women – Womanspace, Library, 3333 Maria Linden Driv e. Sept. 27, 9:30-10:45 a.m. With Una Ryan. Fee: $13/class, members, $12/class. Info: 815-877-0118.

Fit to Shop – On the Move Fitness Center, 125 W. Locust St., Lanark. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Check out local vendors, get a start on Christmas shopping. Also, bring new or gently-used shoes for a shoe drive. Gentlemen welcome, too. Free admission.

RMAP Policy Meeting Agenda – Machesney Park Village Hall, 313 N. Main St., Machesney Park. 1:15 p.m. Info: 815-964-7627.

Have Your Cake and Eat It Too” Fund-raiser – Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, 200 S. Bell School Road. 5-8 p.m. Tickets: $40 each or $300 for corporate table. Register ASAP. Info: 815-543-7770 or www.rosiesbirthdayclub.org.

Regional Chamber of Commerce Business Expo – BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St. 2-7 p.m. Mobile demonstration units provide customers with a hands-on opportunity to learn about energy management including energy efficiency, grid modernization and smart meters.

St. John’s United Church of Christ Fall Rummage Sale – 401 N. Main St., Belvidere. 4-7:30 p.m. Handicapped accessible, many bargains.

QuickBooks 2010 Workshop – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, 6685 E. State St. 6-8 p.m. Ages 13 and up. 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.

Look, Listen, and Learn Storytime – Rockford Public Library, East Branch Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Ages 2-5. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

Senior Computer Learning (a six-week class) – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, 6685 E. State St. Sept. 13-Oct. 18, 1-3 p.m. Ages 55 and older. Beginning computer class for the tru beginner. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

Bridge Rockford Alliance Board of Commissioners Meeting – Central Office, 223 S. Winnebago St. 5 p.m.

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

“Tea Gardens” Program – University of Illinois Extension Ogle County, 421 W. Pines Road, Oregon. 7 p.m. Cost: $5. Open to the public. Info: 815-732-2191.

Helping Our Prisoners in the Overcrowded Jail – Christ United Methodist Church, 4509 Highcrest Road. 7 p.m. With Winnebago County Sheriff Richard Meyers and Pastor Jeff Peterson of Greater Rockford Re-entry Coalition. Hosted by Rockford Urban Ministries. Info: 815-964-7111.

Babes and Books – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Children’s Area, 6685 E. State St. 6-6:45 p.m. Children under 2. Info: 815-965-7606.

What Makes a Tinker? – Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum, 411 Kent St. Special Access Night, 6-8 p.m. Advance tickets only, $50/person.

High School Planning Guide Forum – Jefferson High School, 4145 Samuelson Road. 6-8 p.m.

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

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.

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.

“Bloomin’ Bulbs” Program – University of Illinois Extension Ogle County, 421 W. Pines Road, Oregon. 7 p.m. Registration required. With Cook County Horticulture Educator Nancy Pollard. Info: 815-732-2191.

Home School Class: Drip, Drip – Byron Forest Preserve District. 9-11:30 a.m. Meet at Jarret Center. Ages 6-14. $5. Register by Sept. 10. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Winnebago County Board Meeting – Administration Building, 404 Elm St. 6 p.m.

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, Sept. 28

St. John’s United Church of Christ Fall Rummage Sale – 401 N. Main St., Belvidere. 9 a.m-4 p.m. Handicapped accessible, many bargains.

Friends of the Pecatonica River Foundation’s Second Annual Fish Fry Fund-raiser – Rock Hollow Conservation Club, 1971 IL Rt. 75, Freeport. 4-9 p.m. Four different choices of fish. Info: 815-238-7888.

Home School Class: Make a Splash – Byron Forest Preserve District. 12-2:30 p.m. Meet at Jarrett Center. Ages 6-14. $5. Create aquatic tools. Register by Sept. 10. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Preview Library Sale – Cherry Valley Library, 755 E. State St., Cherry Valley. Noon-3 p.m. Fee $5 (cost of Friend of Library membership).

La Voz Latina’s 41st Annual Banquet – Cliffbreaker’s Riverside Resort, 700 W. Riverside Blvd. 5 p.m. social hour, 6 p.m. dinner. Tickets: $60/person or $600 for corporate table of 8. Also accepting items for silent auction. Info: 815-965-5784.

Zumba Fitness Program – Ken-Rock Community Center, 3218 11th St. 9-10 a.m. Every Mon. and Fri. morning. $5 per session. No pre-registration. Pay as you go. First class FREE. Info: 815-398-8864.

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

Rockford City Market – Water Street in downtown Rockford. 3-7 p.m. through Oct. 12. Free. Features more than 50 vendors including local growers and vendors who sell natural products, vegetables, fruit, eggs, meat, cheeses, flowers, herbs, baked goods, wine and healthy snacks, as well as artisans and beer garden with live music. This week: Live music by Long Shot and activities by Natural Land Institute.

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.

Girls, Let’s e-read – Rockford Public Library, Lewis Lemon Branch, 1988 Jefferson St. 4-5 p.m. Ages 9-12. Info: 815-965-7606.

Group Hope Depression Bipolar Meetings – St. Edward Church, 3004 11th St. 6:15-7:45 p.m. Every Friday. Info: 815-398-9628.

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.

ZUMBATHON – Harlem Middle School, 735 Windsor Road, Loves Park. 6-8 p.m. Boy-BGirl Break Dance Battle, 8-9 p.m. With fitness instructors from GL Dance Fitness Studiop and Rockford Hip Hop Congress. Raffles, door prizes, silent auction. Tickets: $10 advance, $15 at the door. Tickets at GL Dance Fitness, 7326 Cherry Valley Drive, or call 815-988-0101. Also available thru your local ZUMBA fitness instructor.

47th Annual National Short Track Championships – Rockford Speedway, 9572 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park. More than 12 racing divisions will battle on the high banks. Gilley’s Cool 5 Series features Late Models, Sportsman, American Short Trackers, RoadRunners, the Hornet/Bandit Challenge as well as Championship event for Figure 8’s. Racing starts at 7:07 p.m. General admission: adults $12, students (12-17) $8, kids (6-11) $5, ages 5 and younger, free. Info: 815-633-1500 or www.rockfordspeedway.com.

Comedy Night – Franchesco’s, 7128 Spring Creek Road. 9 p.m. Info: 815-229-0800.

Saturday, Sept. 29

Smithsonian Museum Day at Klehm – Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St. Free admission to ticket holders. Get your ticket at www.smithsonianmag.com.

St. John’s United Church of Christ Fall Rummage Sale – 401 N. Main St., Belvidere. 8-10 a.m. with a $2 bag sale. Handicapped accessible, many bargains.

Gun & Knife Show – Winnebago County Fairgrounds, Pecatonica. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission $5.

Annual Easter Seals Walk With Me Rockford – YMCA Log Log Lodge. Walk of 1-1/2 miles starts at Rock River Rec Path at 8:30 a.m. To raise funds for Easter Seals Autism Therapeutic School in Rockford. To sign up to walk or start a team, go to www.walkwithme.org/Rockford or call 815-965-6745.

Emergency Preparedness Day – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, Auditorium, 215 N. Wyman St. 10 a.m. -3 p.m. Rockford Fire Department, Rockford Health Systems, the U of I College of Medicine and others will provide information on how to protect yourself, your family and home in case of a disaster. Emergency Kits will be given away while supplies last. Free and open to the public. No registration needed.

Alpaca Farm Days – True Colors Alpaca Farm, 14718 Route 76, Caledonia. 10 a.m. -4 p.m. Sat. and Sun. Meet the alpacas; yarn and other alpaca items for sale. Free.

Alpaca Farm Open House – Willow Glen Farm, 21000 Leroy Center Road, Capron. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat. and Sun. Visit with more than 30 alpacas. Items for sale from yarn to socks to rugs. Free.

Benefit for Nick and Nate Hoffman – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Benefit for two children who lost both parents tragically, and now face losing their Loves Park home. NSF Band performs, and Pulse 18 will be at Whiskey’s. Live rock ‘n roll, auction, food, drink specials, raffles, prizes. Donations will help pay property taxes on the home. Info: Scott at 779-772-2385 or 815-877-8007.

Forestry Tour – Acorn Acres Tree Farm, 6 miles southeast of Elizabeth, Ill. 9-9:45 a.m. $5 registration fee covers lunch and snacks. At various stops along the tour, speakers will discuss their topic and answer brief questions. Lunch after tour, short presentations, door prizes, a Woodmizer sawmill demonstration. Info: 815-598-3215 or AcornAcres@sandprairie.net.

St. Elizabeth Catholic Community Center Celebrates 101 Years – 1536 S. Main St. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Picnic and reunion.Food, games, entertainment, blood drive, community awareness activities, more. Admission and all activities are free, open to the public. Info: 815-520-3195.

Fossil Hunt at Vulcan Quarry – Midwest Museum of Natural History, 425 W. State St., Sycamore. 9:30-11 a.m. Keep whatever you find. Non-members: $20/person or $55 for family of 3-4. Members: $8/person or $50 for family of 3-4. Ages 6 and up (children must have an adult present). Payment must be taken at registration. Info: 815-895-9777.

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

Library Sale – Cherry Valley Library, 755 E. State St., Cherry Valley. 9 a.m.-regular library hours, thru Oct. 6 (1/2 price day and Oct. 7 (Bag of Books for a Buck afternoon).

East Troy Electric Railroad at Milwaukee Days – 2002 Church St., East Troy, Wis. Sept. 29-30, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Home to the only remaining streetcar from the Milwaukee transit system still running today. All special events included in daily unlimited ride fare: $12.50 for adults, $10.50 for seniors, $8 for children ages 3-11; children younger than 3 are free. Info: www.easttroyrr.org.

What Makes a Tinker?(Opening Day) – Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum, 411 Kent St. Tours at 1 and 3 p.m. Exhibit runs thru Oct. 31. Info: 815-964-2424.

The Orchid Gala “Groovin’ in the Tropics” – Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. Second St., Rockford. 6-10 p.m. Featuring the bands Starlite Radio and Hey Champ. Cocktail attire, cash bar, silent auction. Proceeds benefiting the Rockford Park District Foundation and Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens. Info: 815-987-1632.

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

League of Women Voters of Greater Rockford Voter Registration – Logli, 2642 Charles St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Hilander, Brynwood, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Hilander, Roscoe, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

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

Excel 2010 in a Day – Rockford PUblic Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Ages 13 and up. Prerequisite: Must have a good understanding of MS Word, especially copy and paste functions; must have used Excel. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Canoe the Rock – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. 2-5 p.m. All equipment provided; all ages. Cost: $20/canoe. Meet at Heritage Farm Museum. Minimum of one adult per canoe. Register by Sept. 28. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Pies: Sweet and Savory – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. 2-7 p.m. Pre-register. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Handmade Pasta – Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Road, Caledonia. 2-5 p.m. Pre-reg ister. Info: 815-389-8455 or www.learngrowconnect.org.

Murder Mystery Night w/Dinner – Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum, 411 Kent St. Cost: $45. Sold out! Info: 815-397-9112.

Open Scrapbook Studio – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Friends Community Room , 6685 E. State St. 2-5 p.m. Finish your project from the Cricut Craft room or begin something new. 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.

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.

Prairie Seed Collecting – Elkhorn Creek Biodiversity Preserve, 3 miles southwest of Forreston, West Grove & Freeport roads. 2-4 p.m. Info: 815-938-3204.

47th Annual National Short Track Championships – Rockford Speedway, 9572 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park. More than 12 racing divisions will battle on the high banks. Stars and Cars of the Big 8 Late Model Series begin at 5:05 p.m. The Illini Midget Series, Illinois Vintage Series, Sportsman and Hobby Stox will make up more than 200 laps of racing. General admission: adults $18, students (12-17) $10, kids (6-11) $5, ages 5 and younger, free. Info: 815-633-1500 or www.rockfordspeedway.com.

Sunday, Sept. 30

Gun & Knife Show – Winnebago County Fairgrounds, Pecatonica. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission $5.

Alpaca Farm Days – True Colors Alpaca Farm, 14718 Route 76, Caledonia. 10 a.m. -4 p.m. Sat. and Sun. Meet the alpacas; yarn and other alpaca items for sale. Free.

Alpaca Farm Open House – Willow Glen Farm, 21000 Leroy Center Road, Capron. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat. and Sun. Visit with more than 30 alpacas. Items for sale from yarn to socks to rugs. Free.

League of Women Voters of Greater Rockford Voter Registration – Logli, 2642 Charles St. Noon.-5 p.m. and Hilander, Brynwood, noon-5 p.m. and Hilander, Roscoe, noon-5 p.m.

Milwaukee Days at East Troy Electric Railroad – 2002 Church St., East Troy, Wis. Sept. 29-30, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Home to the only remaining streetcar from the Milwaukee transit system still running today. All special events included in daily unlimited ride fare: $12.50 for adults, $10.50 for seniors, $8 for children ages 3-11; children younger than 3 are free. Info: www.easttroyrr.org.

Figure It Out – Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.Manipulate colors to create delightful designs, practice strategies that boost your chances of winning, enjoy games from around the world, and learn to fool your friends with math tricks that look like magic. $7 adults, $7 children, free to members and children age 1 and younger. Info: 815-963-6769.

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

Open Houses of Worship – St. Peter’s Cathedral, 1243 N. Church St., 2-2:45 p.m. Christ the Carpenter United Methodist Church, 1100 S. Winnebago St., 3-3:45 p.m. Vietnamese Buddhist Temple, 518 15th Ave., 4-4:45 p.m. Sponsored by Rockford Interfaith Council. Info: 815-621-2762 or 815-964-7111.

Harvest Moon Campfire – Elkhorn Creek Biodiversity Preserve, 3 miles southwest of Forreston, southeast corner of West Grove and Freeport roads. Prairie walk at 6 p.m., campfire at 7 p.m. S’mores and water provided. Bring a lawn chair and a flashlight. Info: 815-938-3204.

47th Annual National Short Track Championships – Rockford Speedway, 9572 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park. Super Late Models battle for the National Short Track Championshipo Crown at 12:30 p.m. in the 200 lap championship. A 75-lap Mid-American Stock Car race, Gerber Challenge Race and Late Model Showdown Match Races are also on the card. General admission: adults $20, students (12-17) $10, kids (6-11) $5, ages 5 and younger, free. Info: 815-633-1500 or www.rockfordspeedway.com.

Monday, Oct. 1

Microsoft Word 2010 (four-week class) – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 3-5 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Prerequisite: Proficient familiarity with computers and Internet. Info: 815-965-7606.

League of Women Voters of Greater Rockford Human Services Forum for State Representative and Senate Candidates – Rockford College Burpee Center, 5050 E. State St. 5:30-8 p.m. Free and open to public.

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

Tuesday, Oct. 2

Fall Wagon Rides – Lockwood Park, 5201 Safford Road. 10-11:30 a.m. Cost: $6/person, $8 non-residents. Advance reservations required. Tickets available at either Rockford Park District Customer Service location (downtown Rockford or Carlson Ice Arena, Riverside and Perryville, Loves Park) or Lockwood Park. Info: 815-987-8800.

The Literacy Council’s Volunteer Tutor Workshop – North Suburban Library, 6340 N. Second St., Loves Park. Series consists of six classes, Tues. and Thurs. at 12:30 p.m. Info: 815-963-READ.

2013 Medicare and You – Ken-Rock Community Center, 3218 11th St. 1 p.m. Educational only. Free. Register at 815-398-8864.

Computer Classes – Ken-Rock Community Center, 3218 11th St. Various classes offered Sept. 18-Dec. 20. Info: 815-398-8864 or kenrock.org.

Alzheimer’s Association Program: Facing New Challenges – Rock River Branch Office, 93 S. Hennepin, Dixon. 1-3 p.m. For caregivers. Materials fee: $5/person or $10/family. Register at least a day in advance at 815-285-1100 or 800-272-3900.

Microsoft Word 2010 (four-week class) – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, 2nd Floor Computer Room, 215 N. Wyman St. 3-5 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Prerequisite: Proficient familiarity with computers and Internet. Info: 815-965-7606.

Teen’Scape – Rockford Public LIbrary, Rock River Branch, 3128 11th St. 4-5:30 p.m. Ages 10-19. Play games o Wii or Playstation, surf the Internet, play board games or make crafty surprises. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

Learn to Skate Lessons – Rockford Park District. Register online at www.rockfordparkdistrict.org (click Register Now), by mail, fax, or at CusLithographs Customer Service locations in downtown Rockford or Carlson Ice Arena, Riverside and Perryville, Loves Park. Info: 815-987-8800.

Registration for Youth Basketball Program – Ken-Rock Community Center, 3218 11th St. 6-8 p.m. Cost: $75. Includes T-shirt and end of season award. Info: 814-398-8864 or www.kenrock.org.

Rockford Public School District Board of Education Meeting – Administration Building, 501 Seventh St., 3rd Floor Board Room. 7 p.m.

Comedy Night: Claude Stuart w/Jen Shenberger – The District Bar & Grill, 205 W. State St. 8 p.m. Info: 815-977-4524.

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

From the Sept. 26-Oct. 2, 2012, issue