Rockford celebrates, cheers on NIU Huskies in their first Orange Bowl appearance

Online Staff Report

Alumni and friends of Northern Illinois University (NIU) are celebrating the NIU Huskies’ first appearance at the Discover Orange Bowl, to be held Jan. 1, 2013. Thousands of fans are headed to Miami to cheer on the team in person, but events are planned for those staying close to home in Rockford for the New Year.

Rockford Mayor Larry Morrissey (I) will designate January as NIU Huskies Month in Rockford at the Dec. 31, 3 p.m., meeting of the Rockford City Council.

Jan. 1, the NIU Rockford Alumni Club and the NIU Alumni Association are presenting a Rockford Orange Bowl Watch Party. Alumni and friends of NIU are invited to come together to witness the biggest sporting event in Huskies history at 7 p.m. at Brewsky’s, 4414 Charles St., in Rockford. Appetizers and door prizes will be provided; food and beverages will be available for purchase. There is no charge to attend, but registration is requested at http://myniu.com/niu-is-in-theorange-bowl/.

“As Rockford’s four-year public university, NIU is delighted with the excitement around town for the Huskies’ historic season,” said Rena Cotsones, assistant vice president for regional engagement/Rockford. “We thank Mayor Morrissey and the City Council for their recognition of the team and look forward to meeting lots of NIU alumni at the Watch Party.”

Posted Dec. 28, 2012