Rockford Art Museum – 711 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. Featuring: “The Chemistry of Color” thru April 22. Free for everyone every Tues. Now: Pulp and Pigment: The Realms of Roland Poska, Feb. 3-May 6. Pulp and Pigment Teacher Workshop, Wed., Feb. 15, 4:30-6 p.m.; registration required. Children’s classes, Pulp Painting, (ages 5+) Sat., Feb. 5; Plantable Pulp Cards (ages 5+), Sat., March 24; Rock, Scissors, Paper (ages 6+), Sat., April 28. All classes 2-3:30 p.m. $8 per class or $20 for all 3. Info: 815-968-2787.

Artists’ Ensemble – Rockford College Cheek Theatre, 5050 E. State St. Info: 815-903-2277 or www.artistsensemble.org.

Kortman Gallery – 107 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Opening Feb. 3: “The Pollyanna Society,” featuring work of Shannon Blosser-Salisbury. Info: 815-968-0123.

David C. Olson Photography Studio – 7801 E. State St., inside Clock Tower Resort. Wildlife and nature imagery. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-noon, Saturday. Free. Info: 815-873-1777.

Beth Ann Weis Salon & Spa – 4108 Morsay Drive, Rockford. Hours: Tues. & Fri., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thurs., noon-9 p.m.; Sat., 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Sun., Mon., Wed. Info: 815-387-2700.

Funktional Arts – 412 N. First St. Furniture & sculpture. Info: 815-969-7942.

Rockford Dance Company – Riverfront Museum Park, 711 N. Main St. Info: 815-815-963-3341.

Village Gallery – Stewart Square. Artists’ co-op. 45 artists. Open Wed.-Fri., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-963-ARTS.

Bonzi Productions Theatre Group – Family theater, plays, musicals. Info: 815-394-8987.

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

Galena Artists’ Guild Gallery – 324 Spring St., Galena. Thurs.-Mon., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Info: 815-777-2870.

NIU Art Museum – Hall Case Galleries, 116 Altgeld Hall, DeKalb. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., noon-4 p.m. Exhibiting Jan. 10-Feb. 25: New to the Collection. Selection of artwork recently donated to NIU. Free. Info: 815-753-1936.

Rockford College Art Gallery – Clark Arts Center, 5050 E. State St. 3-6 p.m., Tues.-Fri. Info: 815-226-4105.

Womanspace – Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Mon.-Thurs., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Info: 815-877-0118.

Beloit Fine Arts Incubator – 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.Other hours by appointment. Info: 608-313-9083.

Monroe Arts Center – 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Now exhibiting: Earth’s Canvas, group exhibit running thru Feb. 17. Info: 608-325-5700 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

ArtSpace West – 1426 N. Main St. Tues.-Fri., 3-8 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Info: 630-546-4727 or 815-988-1501.

Age Quake Theatre – Plays for and about those 55 and older performed in the greater Rockford area. Info: 815-398-8090.

Byron Civic Theatre – 850 N. Colfax, Byron. Playing Feb. 3-5: Mister Roberts. Info: 815-312-3000.

Cholke Photography & Fine Art Gallery – 2211 E. State St. Fri., 7:30-10 p.m.; Sat., 4:30-10 p.m.; Sun., 2-5 p.m. Free. Info: 815-226-9398.

The Fireside Theatre – Fort Atkinson, Wis. Now playing: Viva Vegas thru March 4. Info: 800-477-9505 or www.firesidetheatre.com.

Found It! Gallery – 107 Monroe St., Genoa. After-school arts & crafts from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Tues.-Fri. for kids ages 3-14. Cost: $3 if you sign up at least the day before, $5 drop-in, $10 for all four days. Info: 815-601-2375.

Freeport Art Museum –121 N. Harlem Ave., Freeport. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., noon-5 p.m. Exhibiting now: 8th Annual Juried Exhibition, thru Feb. 3, 2012. Info: 815-235-9755.

DeKalb Area Women’s Center – 1021 State St., DeKalb. Fridays 7-9 p.m. Info: 815-758-1351.

Tom Littrell Design & Art Studio – 317 Market St., Rockford. Info: 815-519-5288.

Pec Playhouse Theatre – 314 Main St., Pecatonica. Coming Feb. 10: Waste MisManagement. Info: 815-239-1210.

Timber Lake Playhouse – 8215 Black Oak Road, Mt. Carroll. Info: 815-244-2035.

Ingrid Dohm Studio Gallery – 839 N. Perryville Road. Appointments/Info: 815-519-6492.

Midtown Marketplace – 203 Seventh St. Info: 815-961-1269.

The Gallery At JustGoods – 201 Seventh St. Currently seeking local artist to present works in the Community/Art room. Info: 815-965-8903.

Charlotte Hackin Art Studio & Gallery – 6278 Brynwood Drive. Info: 815-639-1318.

Bliss Beads Studio & Gallery – 161 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb, Ill. Weekly classes in bead jewelry making, silversmithing and flamework glass. Now thru Feb. 4: Folded Copper. Regular hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Info: 815-517-0164.

Woodstock Musical Theatre Company – Woodstock Opera House,121 VanBuren St., Woodstock. Info: 815-338-5300.

Northwestern Illinois Theater Coalition – Opening February 2012: The Cheddar Curtain. Info: 815-281-0138.

Rock Valley College – Estelle M. Black Library, Educational Resource Building, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Now thru Feb. 20: Exhibit of early Chinese ceramics from the Neolithic period, Han, Tang, Song, Jin and Liao dynasties. Mon.-Thurs., 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fridays, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Rockford College Art Gallery – 5050 E. State St. Exhibiting Feb. 2-March 3: Rearviewed by Chicago artist Don Colley. Hours: 3-6 p.m., Tues.-Fri. and by appointment. Info: 815-226-4100.

Womanspace, Gallery 1 – 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Thru Feb. 23: “Realism or Not.” Works by a group of artists in oil, acrylic, watercolor, glass, beadwork, pastel and mixed media.Watercolor class for beginners on Feb. 4. Info: 815-877-0118.

Call for Artists! Art Show for “Occupy” – 2500 N. Main St. Date: March 10, 3-10 p.m. Deadline: Feb. 29. Info: 815-519-1809.

Beloit International Film Festival presents: The Silent Film Showcase – Eclipse Center, corner of Riverside & Henry. Beloit, Wis. Date: Saturday, Feb. 18, 7:30 p.m. Silent classics with music by the Beloit Janesville Symphony Orchestra. Tickets: $25. Info: 608-313-1200 or beloitjanesvillesymphony@gmail.com.

Registration for Art Lecture: Wassily Kandinsky – Womanspace, Fountain View Room, 3333 Maria Linden Road. Date: Feb. 9. Noon-1:30 p.m. Cost: $12 (members $10). Bring a sack lunch if you like; light refreshments provided. Info: 815-877-0118.

Wednesday, Feb. 1

Bat Boy: The Musical – Rock Valley College StudioTheatre, 3301 N. Mulford Road. 8 p.m. Tickets: $16 adults, $14 seniors/students. Info: 815-921-2160.

The New Art Examiner, “Chicago’s Independent Voice of the Visual Arts,” 1973-2002 – NIU Art Museum, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thru March 10. Info: 815-753-1936.

Thursday, Feb. 2

Artists’ Reception – ArtSpace West Gallery, 1426 N. Main St. 5-8 p.m. Painting and Imagination by Paul Henderson; Fused Glass Jewelry by Sue Barber; Stained Glass by Dave Barber; new works by Ray Schulz, Jackie Hickey, H. Edward Riddle and Jim. Gifts for Valentine’s Day, all occasion, starting at $3. Info: 630-546-4727.

The Weir – NIU School of Theatre & Dance, DeKalb. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $16 adults, $13 seniors, $8 students. Info: 815-753-1600 or www.niu.edu/theatre/.

Bat Boy: The Musical – Rock Valley College StudioTheatre, 3301 N. Mulford Road. 8 p.m. Tickets: $16 adults, $14 seniors/students. Info: 815-921-2160.

Rearviewed – Rockford College Art Gallery, 5050 E. State St. Exhibit by Chicago artist Don Colley. Discussion with artist, 10 a.m. in Printmaking Studio, Clark Arts Center. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. in the gallery. Info: 815-226-4100.

Rockford Area Arts Council Recognition of 2012 Grant Recipients – Rockford Park District, Webbs Norman Conference Center, 401 S. Main St. 4 p.m. Council will award nearly $20,000 in grants to artists, arts organizations and community groups. Info: 815-963-6765.

Chelonia – Beloit College, Neese Theatre, 700 College St., Beloit, Wis. 8 p.m. Tickets: $8.50 general admission, $5 seniors, $4 students. Info: 608-363-2755.

Friday, Feb. 3

The Pollyanna Society (an exhibition of digital works by Shannon Blosser-Salisbury) – J.R. Kortman Center for Design, 107 N. Main St. Opening reception 5:30-9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-968-0123.

Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Tasting Fund-raiser– Freeport Art Museum, 121 N. Harlem Ave., Freeport. 6-9 p.m. Tickets: $20 members, $23 non-members, $25 at the door. Info: 815-235-9755.

Bat Boy: The Musical – Rock Valley College StudioTheatre, 3301 N. Mulford Road. 8 p.m. Tickets: $16 adults, $14 seniors/students. Info: 815-921-2160.

The Weir – NIU School of Theatre & Dance, DeKalb. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $16 adults, $13 seniors, $8 students. Info: 815-753-1600 or www.niu.edu/theatre/.

Mister Roberts – Byron Civic Theater, 850 N. Colfax, Byron. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $12 adults, $10 seniors, $6 students. Info: 815-312-3000.

Rearviewed – Rockford College, 5050 E. State St. 3-6 p.m. Exhibit by Chicago artist Don Colley. Thru March 3. Info: 815-226-4100.

Pulp and Pigment: The Realms of Roland Poska – Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main St. Handmade paper work. Members Preview with Gallery Walk at 5 p.m., reception, 6-7:30 p.m. Info: 815- 968-2787.

Chelonia – Beloit College, Neese Theatre, 700 College St., Beloit, Wis. 8 p.m. Tickets: $8.50 general admission, $5 seniors, $4 students. Info: 608-363-2755.

Saturday, Feb. 4

The Weir – NIU School of Theatre & Dance, DeKalb. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $16 adults, $13 seniors, $8 students. Info: 815-753-1600 or www.niu.edu/theatre/.

Bat Boy: The Musical – Rock Valley College StudioTheatre, 3301 N. Mulford Road. 2 p.m. Tickets: $16 adults, $14 seniors/students. Info: 815-921-2160.

Mister Roberts – Byron Civic Theater, 850 N. Colfax, Byron. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $12 adults, $10 seniors, $6 students. Info: 815-312-3000.

Arty-Joke: All Star Evening of Music and Laughter – Artists’ Ensemble, Rockford College, Maddox Theatre, 5050 E. State St. 8 p.m. Tickets: $30. All proceeds benefit Artists’ Ensemble Theater. Info: 815-904-2277 or artistsensemble.org/.

Pulp and Pigment: The Realms of Roland Poska – Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main St. Handmade paper work. Public opening with free admission, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free Gallery Walk at 11 a.m.-noon. Free Children’s Art Activity, 11 a.m.-noon. Sponsored by Art in the Garden. Info: 815-968-2787.

Sunday, Feb. 5

The Weir – NIU School of Theatre & Dance, DeKalb. 2 p.m. Tickets: $16 adults, $13 seniors, $8 students. Info: 815-753-1600 or www.niu.edu/theatre/.

Bat Boy: The Musical – Rock Valley College StudioTheatre, 3301 N. Mulford Road. 2 p.m. Tickets: $16 adults, $14 seniors/students. Info: 815-921-2160.

Mister Roberts – Byron Civic Theater, 850 N. Colfax, Byron. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $12 adults, $10 seniors, $6 students. Info: 815-312-3000.

Monday, Feb. 6

No listings submitted

Tuesday, Feb. 7

Rearviewed – Rockford College Art Gallery, 5050 E. State St. 3-6 p.m. Exhibit by Chicago artist Don Colley. Thru March 3. Info: 815-226-4100.

New to the Collection – NIU Art Museum, Hall Case Galleries, 116 Altgeld Hall, DeKalb. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., noon-4 p.m. Exhibiting Jan. 10-Feb. 25. Selection of artwork recently donated to NIU. Free. Info: 815-753-1936.

“First and Third” Open Art Studio – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 4-6:30 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

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 Feb. 1-7, 2012, issue



Rockford Public Library Hours – Main Library open Tues.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; East Branch open Mon.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Rock River and Montague branches open Tues.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Rockton Centre Branch open Mon.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Lewis Lemon Branch open Mon.-Fri., 2-6 p.m. All library locations closed Sundays.

Burpee Museum of Natural History – 737 N. Main St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Exhibiting thru April 29: “Ice Age Mammals.” Admission: $8 adults, $7 children 3-17, free for children younger than 3 and members; additional fee for traveling exhibits. Info: 815-965-3433.

Discovery Center Museum – 711 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $7 adults, $7 children. Opening Jan. 28: About Robots: The Interactive Exhibition thru April 29. Info: 815-963-6769.

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

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden – 2715 S. Main St. Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Sundays and Mondays until April. Admission $6 adults, $3 seniors & students, children younger than 3 and Klehm members, free. Donation Day is now first Tuesday of each month. Admission free, donations of any amount welcome. Info: 815-965-8146.

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

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

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

Rockford Park District Indoor Adult Golf Clinics – Indoor Sports Center, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd. Mondays, 12:30-1:20 p.m. or 1:30-2:20 p.m. Taught by PGA members and apprentices. Thru March 14. Info: 815-987-8800.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stone Quarry Recreation Park – 6845 N. German Church Road, Byron. Mon.-Fri., 4-8 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., noon-8 p.m. Info: 815-234-8900.

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

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

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

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

Support for Retired Grievers – Zion Lutheran Church, 925 Fifth Ave. 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Every other Wed. Call for dates/info: 815-636-4750.

Overeaters Anonymous H.O.W.– Every Thursday at Byron Public Library, Route 2. 12-step study group – 5:30-6 p.m. Regular group meets 6-7:30 p.m. Info: 815-734-4662.

Rockford Public Library Used Book Shop – Rockford Public Library, 215 N. Wyman St. Mon.-Wed., noon-8 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

Womanspace – 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Yoga every Thursday, 9:30-10:45 a.m. $40/four classes or $12/class. Basic Hatha Yoga. Other activities throughout the year. Info: 815-877-0118.

Beckman Mill Park – 11600 S. County Road H, off Highway 81. Tours 1-4 p.m. Corn grinding demonstrations, see the blacksmith shop, creamery & visitor center. Info: 608-751-1551.

Heritage Farm Museum – 8059 N. River Road, Byron. Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 217.

Poplar Grove Vintage Wings and Wheels Museum – 5151 Orth Road, Poplar Grove. Open weekdays 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Info: 815-547-3115.

Rock River Valley Blood Center – 419 N. Sixth St. Mon.-Thurs., 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Fri., 6:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Info: 815-965-8751 or 866-889-9037.

Kishwaukee Valley A.B.A.T.E. Meeting – V.F.W., 2018 Windsor Road, Loves Park. Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. Info: 815-544-3088.

Open Doors – Court Street United Methodist Church Chapel, 215 N. Court St. 12:30-1 p.m. Every Wed. Enter north end. Info: 815-962-6061.

Historic Auto Attractions – 13825 Metric Drive, Roscoe. Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Info: 815-389-9999.

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

Byron Museum of History – 106 N. Union St., Byron. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-234-5031.

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

Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off – Rock River Water Reclamation District, 3333 Kishwaukee St. Sat., 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., noon-4 p.m.

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

Rockton Township Historical Society Museum – Corner of Blackhawk Boulevard & Green Street, Rockton. Open for tours every Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-624-4830.

Singles 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. Info: 815-632-9880 or 815-563-4309 or 815-275-7179.

Having Trouble Hearing on the Phone? – Center for Sight & Hearing, 8038 Macintosh Lane. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri. Free amplified phone program. Must be Illinois resident and have standard phone service. Application/info: 815-332-6800.

Winnebago County Health Dept. Flu Vaccine Available – For flu clinic schedule, call 815-720-4264 or go to www.wchd.org.

Stretch & Belly Dance Combo Beginners’ Class – Club Round, 7120 Windsor Lake Parkway. 7:30-9 p.m. Classes every Mon., Wed. & Fri. Registration/info: 815-639-0312.

Adventure Club – Jarrett Center, Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road, Byron. 9-11 a.m. or 1-3 p.m. Ages 3-6. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Intermediate Writing/Publishing Class – Meets every Mon. Call for information. Info: 224-343-0384.

Introduction to Card-Making/Stamping – Meets every Thurs. Call for information. Info: 224-343-0384.

Toddler Time – Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 2001 N. Alpine Road. 9:15-10:15 a.m. Every Mon. and Tues. Free. Info: 815-399-3171.

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.

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

Yoga Classes – Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 Third Ave., Rockford. Mondays, 6-7:15 p.m., six weeks consecutive, $45 or single classes, $10 each. Register/Info: 815-963-4815.

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

Lazy Dog Yoga Studio – 5428 Williams Drive, Roscoe. $10 per drop-in class or 6 classes for $50. Chair Yoga every Friday at noon, Kundalini Yoga every Saturday at 9 a.m. Info: 970-485-0249.

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.

Registration for The Winter Zodiac – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Feb. 3. 7-8 p.m. For ages 6 and up. Meet at Weiskopf Observatory. Free. Register by Feb. 2. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for Trip to Art Institute – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Feb. 8. Meet at Jarrett Center at 10 a.m. All ages. Cost: $15/person or $25/couple. Museum fees not included. Register by Feb. 6. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University – Valley Evangelical Covenant Church, 103 S. Maple St. (Rt. 72 & Maple St.), Stillman Valley. Program starts Feb. 13 . Info: 815-645-8872.

Registration for Owl Prowl – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Mon., Feb. 16 7 p.m. Take a night hike; meet at Jarrett Center. $2/person. Register by Feb. 8. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

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

Reservation for PAWS Humane Society Fur Ball Dinner – Giovanni’s Restaurant, 610 N. Bell School Road. Date: Feb. 11. Cocktails, 5:30 p.m., dinner 6:30, live auction 8 p.m. Info: 815-299-PAWS (7297) or www. PAWSHS.org.

Reservations for Valentine Potluck and Chocolate Dessert Sale – Second Congregational Church, 318 N. Church St. Date: Feb. 11. 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Lunch: Bring a light Valentine entree to serve 6-8. Breads, beverages and dessert will be provided. Chocolate Dessert: Bring a dessert item priced and wrapped for sale. Speaker Andrea Wright, AAUW member. RSVP by Feb. 8 to 815-877-4762 or joysd248@att.net.

Registration for Sweetheart Skiing – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Feb. 12, 1-4 p.m. Meet at Jarrett Center. All ages. $2/person. Register by Feb. 8. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Upcoming: Kid Concert – Magic Matt – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Feb. 11. Meet at Jarrett Center at 3 p.m. All ages. Free. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Coupons for Fund-raiser for “Thrivent Builds” Lutheran Habitat House – Denali’s Pizza, 4190 Newburg Road. Dates: Feb. 13 and 14. 15 percent of your purchase (before tax) will be donated to Rockford 2012 “Thrivent Builds” Habitat for Humanity home. Pick up your Denali’s coupon at a Lutheran church. Info: 815-708-6523.

Registration for Free EKG Screens for High School Students – Heart Hospital at SwedishAmerican, Rockford. Date: Feb. 15. Appointments are scheduled every 15 minutes, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Info: 815-968-4400, ext. 62894 or asammons@swedishamerican.org.

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

Volunteer Tutors Needed – The Literacy Council Tutor Workshop Series invites you to sign up. Six classes will be held Mondays and Wednesdays at 982 N. Main St.. Feb. 6 & 7. Info: 815-963-READ (7323).

Wednesday, Feb. 1

Environmental Film Series: Windfall – Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road. 6-10 p.m. Cost: $1. Discussion to follow. Advance registration: 815-921-3900.

Ohio Valley Gold & Silver Refinery Roadshow – Holiday Inn, 7550 E. State St. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Online system connects with 10,000-plus collectors. Info: 217-726-7590.

Free Admission at Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens – 1354 N. Second St., Rockford. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Highlights: “Herbal Teas & Your Health” – 5-6 p.m. Shop at Garden Gate Gifts. Info: 815-987-8898.

Free EKG Screenings for High School Students – Belvidere Medical Center, 1700 Henry Luckow Lane. Appointments are scheduled every 15 minutes and begin at 5:30 p.m. Info: 815-968-4400, ext. 62894 or asammons@swedishamerican.org.

RU Ready to be an Entrepreneur? – Rock Valley College Technology Center, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Free. Sponsored by SCORE. Info: www.northernillinoisscore.org/workshop-ruready.html.

Babes and Books – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 11:15 a.m.-noon. Children younger than 2. Develop baby’s literacy & social skills through rhymes, stories, songs. Info: 815-965-7606.

YA Monthly Movies @ Main: Priest –Rockford Public Library, Main Library Auditorium, 215 N. Wyman St. Rated PG-13. Ages 12-19. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Info: 815-965-7606.

Online Job Search – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 6-8 pm. Ages 13 and older. Must be proficient with Internet Explorer. Info: 815-965-7606.

Diabetes Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Francis Room, 5666 E. State St. 6:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-395-5159.

Weight Loss Orientation – OSF Saint Anthony Center for Health, rotates among three OSF locations. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. every Wed. Info: 815-395-4505.

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

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.

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

Lizard Man & Joe Keith: Comedy – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. 8 p.m. Info: 815-877-8007.

Thursday, Feb. 2

Walk-In Cholesterol Screening Clinic – Heartland Community Church, 1280 S. Alpine Road. 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. “Heart Month Special” on Lipid Panel and Comprehensive Metabolic panel, $25. Tests require a 10-hour fast, but it is recommended to drink plenty of water prior to screening. Info: 815-720-4000.

Winnebago County Candidates Forum – Allen Chapel, 3000 Rural St. 6:30 p.m. Sponsored by AAUW, League of Women Voters and others.

Ohio Valley Gold & Silver Refinery Roadshow – Holiday Inn, 7550 E. State St. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Online system connects with 10,000-plus collectors. Info: 217-726-7590.

Career Expo and Job Fair – Community Building Complex, 111 W. First St., Belvidere. Noon-4 p.m. Hosted by The Workforce Connection. Info: www.theworkforceconnection.org.

Blue Blazers Toastmasters Meeting – Hamilton Sundstrand, 4747 Harrison Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Info: 815-968-6860.

Free “Leaving Your Legacy” Workshop – Booker Washington Center, 524 Kent St. 1 p.m. Learn how to preserve family photos, birth records, marriage licenses, military records, awards, trophies, more. Sponsored by Lifescape Community Services, Inc., and Booker Washington Center. Info: 815-962-9117.

Career College for High School Students Info – Rock Valley College, Stenstrom Center, 4151 Samuel-son Road. 6-7:30 p.m. Learn about dual credit courses, get help in filling out RVC applications. Info: 815-921-4086.

Internet – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 2-4 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Prerequisite: Introduction to computers or the equivalent. Info: 815-965-7606.

Teen ‘Scape – Rockford Public Library, Montague Branch, Connie Lane Room, 1238 S. Winnebago St. 4-7 p.m. Ages 10-19. Info: 815-965-7606.

Beginning Computer for the Absolute Beginner – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 6-8 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Info: 815-965-7606.

Love Your Library – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, 6685 E. State St. 11:15-12:15 p.m. All ages. Must enter by side door. Info: 815-965-7606.

Sweet Tooth Styles – Rockford Public Library, Montague Branch, Connie Lane Room, 1238 S. Winnebago St. 4-7 p.m. Ages 10-19. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Turning 65–Get the Facts – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Ages 50 and older. Social Security, Original Medicare Parts A and B, supplemental insurance, Medicare Parts C and D, info on eligibility, enrollment, benefits. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Happiness Club Meeting – North Suburban Library, 6340 N. Second St., Loves Park. 6:30-8 p.m. Speaker Jodell Gabriel presents an overview of aromatherapy. Free. Info: 888-637-3563.

Concert of Prayer – St. Luke’s Missionary Baptist Church, 2919 19th St. 7 p.m. Worship & prayer, open to public. Sponsored by National Day of Prayer Committee and Rockford Renewal Ministires. Info: 815-962-6246.

Nondenominational Bible Talks on New Testament Teachings of Jesus – Winnebago Farm Bureau, 1925 S. Meridian Road. 7:30-8:30 p.m. Free. All are welcome. Info: 815-670-4387.

QuickBooks Workshop – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 6-8 p.m. Ages 18 and older. Info: 815-965-7606.

Look, Listen and Learn Storytime – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, 6685 E. State St. 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Ages 3-6 Info: 815-965-7606.

Bilingual Thursdays Storytime (Spanish/English) – Rockford Public Library, Rock River Branch, Program Room, 3128 11th St. 4-4:45 p.m. Ages 3-8. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

Made in America: Mammals – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. 5-7 p.m. Meet at Jarrett Center. All ages. Register by Dec. 21. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

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.

Stories by the Fire – Rockford Public Library, Rock River Branch, 3128 11th St. 6:30-7:30 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

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. Main St. 5-5:45 p.m. Ages 4-10. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

Swing Dancing – St. Edward Church, 3004 11th St. 8-10:30 p.m. Every Thurs. Info: 815-914-7441.

Preschool Picnic Storytime – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. Noon-12:45 p.m. Ages 3-6. Bring a lunch. 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.

Support for Grief After Suicide – Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 4700 Augustana Drive. 7 p.m. Free. Every other Thurs. Call for schedule/info: 815-399-0202.

Learn Self-Hypnosis for Wellness – enTrance Center, 5844 Elaine Drive, Rockford. 6:30-8 p.m. $25. Call in advance: 815-397-5901.

Unplugged Gamers Night – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, Young Adult Zone, 215 N. Wyman St. 5-7 p.m. Ages 13-19. Info: 815-965-7606.

QuickBooks – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 6-8 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Prerequisite: Must be able to mail merge in MS Word and create a chart in MS Excel. Registration is required. 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, Feb. 3

Walk-In Cholesterol Screening Clinic – Heartland Community Church, 1280 S. Alpine Road. 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. “Heart Month Special” on Lipid Panel and Comprehensive Metabolic panel, $25. Tests require a 10-hour fast, but it is recommended to drink plenty of water prior to screening. Info: 815-720-4000.

“The Role of Philanthropic Advisors” – Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road. 7:30-9 a.m. Presented by the Northern Illinois Planned Giving Council. Cost: $20 for NIPGC members, $35 for non-members. Registration fee includes breakfast. Info: 815-490-1620 or NIPGC@aol.com.

Ohio Valley Gold & Silver Refinery Roadshow – Holiday Inn, 7550 E. State St. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Online system connects with 10,000-plus collectors. Info: 217-726-7590.

Salsa Business Network Luncheon – Spider Sushi Bar & Restaurant, 4415 Harrison Ave., Rockford. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Cost: $12 at the door. RSVP at: 815-289-5970.

Benefit for Mitchel Krause Scholarship Fund – Park Lanes, 5318 N. Second St., Loves Park. Donations can also be made to Mitchel Krause Scholarship Fund, c/o Gateway Community Bank, 5390 Williams Drive, Roscoe, IL 61073. Info on event or scholarship: MK23memorial@gmail.com.

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

The Winter Zodiac – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. 7-8 p.m. For ages 6 and up. Meet at Weiskopf Observatory. Free. Register by Feb. 2. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

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

Girlz Talk – Rockford Public Library, Lewis Lemon Branch, 1988 Jefferson St. 4-5 p.m. Ages 9-13. Info: 815-965-7606.

Diabetes Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Francis Room, 5666 E. State St. 6:30 p.m. open discussion. Free. Info: 815-395-5159.

Wellness for the Mind, Body & Spirit Lecture Series: Natural Health – Siena on Brendenwood, 4444 Brendenwood Road. 1:30 p.m. Ryan Hulsebus, D.C. Info: 815-399-6167.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Tues., Thurs. & Fridays during school year, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Extra Friday session, 8-10 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Monster Jam – BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St. 7:30 p.m. Monster truck series showcasing freestyle and racing competition among machines averaging 12 feet by 12 feet, weighing at least 10,000 pounds. Tickets: $20 adults, $5 children age 12 and younger, limited number of Gold Circle seats available. Info: 815-968-5222. $5 discount coupons available at participating Advance Auto Parts locations thru Feb. 3.

Saturday, Feb. 4

Walk-In Cholesterol Screening Clinic – Heartland Community Church, 1280 S. Alpine Road. 8 a.m.-noon “Heart Month Special” on Lipid Panel and Comprehensive Metabolic panel, $25. Tests require a 10-hour fast, but it is recommended to drink plenty of water prior to screening. Info: 815-720-4000.

Ohio Valley Gold & Silver Refinery Roadshow – Holiday Inn, 7550 E. State St. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Online system connects with 10,000-plus collectors. Info: 217-726-7590.

Atwood Wanderings – Atwood Park, 2685 New Milford School Road. Morning or afternoon. Fee: $7/person ($9 non-resident), or bring a sack lunch and save $2 by signing up for same-day morning and afternoon programs. Info: 815-987-8800.

February Visit Day – Rockford College, Burpee Center, 5050 E. State St. 8:30 a.m.-noon. Application fee will be waived if students fill out their application form today. Reserve at: 815-226-4050 or 800-892-2984 or http://www.rockford.edu/?VisitDay.

Turner Hall Open House – 1217 17th Ave., Monroe, Wis. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Creative room displays and decor, entree & wine sampling, facility tours, slide presentation, drawings for Ratskeller gift certificates, etc. Info: 608-325-3461.

Winter Trails & Naturalist Tales – Atwood Center, 2685 New Milford School Road. 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Presented by U of I Extension-Winnebago County. Fee: $30, includes lunch, two keynote speakers, one guided outdoor hike and snowshoe rental. Register at 815-986-4357 or http://web.extension.illinois.edu/sw.

Traditional Japanese Snow Viewing Tea Ceremony – Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road. Ceremony times from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. $25/person; reservations required. Limited to 15 participants for each of the times. Info: 815-229-9390, ext. 10.

Paper Bag Princess Party – Cherry Valley Public Library District, 755 E. State St. 1 p.m. Ages 3 and older. Children’s program based on the book, The Paper Bag Princess. Info: 815-332-5161.

Winnebago & Boone Counties Genealogical Society – Spring Creek United Church of Christ, 4500 Spring Creek Road. 1:30 p.m. Program about Greenwood Cemetery history. Free, open to all interested persons. Info: 815-230-1040.

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

Water Your Roots: Grow Your Family Tree – Rockford Public Library, Montague Branch, 1238 S. Winnebago St. 3-5:15 p.m. Ages 18 and older. Discover your ancestry. Info: 815-965-7606,

Snowshoeing (with instruction) – Seth B. Atwood Park. Youth must be accompanied by an adult during the program. Pre-registration requested. Info: 815-874-7576.

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

Family Skate – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road, Loves Park. 8 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Adult Grief Support Group – Beloit Regional Hospice Office, 655 Third St., Suite 200, Beloit, Wis. 6-7:30 p.m. Info: 608-363-7421.

Kundalini Yoga – Lazy Dog Yoga Studio, 5428 Williams Drive, Roscoe. 7:30 a.m. Info: 970-485-0249.

Public Skating – Riverview Ice House, 324 N. Madison St. Info: 815-963-7465.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Info: 815-969-4069.

Monster Jam – BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St. Pit party, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Monster truck series showcasing freestyle and racing competition at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Machines averaging 12 feet by 12 feet, weighing at least 10,000 pounds. Tickets: $20 adults, $5 children age 12 and younger, limited number of Gold Circle seats available. Info: 815-968-5222. $5 discount coupons available at participating Advance Auto Parts locations thru Feb. 3.

Sunday, Feb. 5

All-You-Can-Eat Buffet Breakfast – Monroe Township Firefighters Association, 104 West St., Monroe Center, Wis. 7-11 a.m. Cost: $7.50 adults, $3 children ages 6-12, age 5 and younger, free.

Frosty and Friends Ice Skating – Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Road. 2-4 p.m. Learn to Skate lessons, music by a live DJ, prize drawings. Admission includes skate rental, $5; free for ages 2 and younger. Info: 815-987-8800.

Monday, Feb. 6

The Skin I’m In – Rockford Public Library, Lewis Lemon Branch, 1988 Jefferson St. 4:30-5:30 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

Applications/Workshop for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Scholarship – DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St., DeKalb. 5-7 p.m. and Freeport School Dist. Admin. Office, 5-8 p.m. Workshops open to public, male and female. Applications available at all area high schools, public libraries and members of the organization, or e-mail to RACDSTscholarship@hotmail.com.

Kids Club – Rockford Public Library, Lewis Lemon Branch, 1988 W. Jefferson St. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Ages 6-12. Info: 815-965-7606.

Valentine Party – Cherry Valley Public Library District, 755 E. State St. 6 p.m. Ages 6 and up. Design a quilt square, games, stories, crafts, activities. Info: 815-332-5161.

MS PowerPoint 2010 – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 6-8 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Prerequisite: Proficient familiarity with computers. Info: 815-965-7606.

Excel – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 6-8 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Prerequisite: Must have a good understanding of MS Word. Info: 815-965-7606.

Infant/Toddler CPR – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Anthony and St. Joseph rooms, 5666 E. State St. 7-9 p.m. Cost: $12.50/person or free to those who attend “Baby 101” or Baby Express. Info: 815-227-2695.

Tuesday, Feb. 7

Benefit for Jimmy Newcomer – Texas Roadhouse, 7240 Walton St. 2-10 p.m. Dinner fund-raiser and silent auction to help 19-year-old serving assistant who was recently diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. Special appearances by Rockford IceHogs. Restaurant will donate all tips and 10 percent of all sales to Jimmy’s family.

Love Your Library – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, 6685 E. State St. Noon-12:45 p.m. All ages. Must enter by side door. Info: 815-965-7606.

Beginning MS Word 2010 – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. Ages 13 and older. Prerequisite: Proficient familiarity with mouse and keyboard. Info: 815-965-7606.

Sweet Tooth Styles – Rockford Public Library, Rock River Branch, 3128 11th St. 4-5:30 p.m. Ages 10-19. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Teen ‘Scape – Rockford Public Library, Rock River Branch, 3128 11th St. 4-5:30 p.m. Ages 10-19. Info: 815-965-7606.

Garlic Dinner at Abreo – 515 E. State St. 5-9 p.m. Cost: $40/person (excluding tax & gratuity). Seating is limited. RSVP: 815-968-9463.

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

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

Northwest Illinois Audubon Society Meeting – St. John United Church of Christ, Freeport. 7 p.m. Topic: “Do We Live Above An Underground Lake?” Speaker Larry Lyons, a master groundwater contractor. Free.

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 Feb. 1-7, 2012, issue

Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center 2012-2013 Concert Season – Subscription packages or single tickets available. Next concert: Debussy, le magnifique. Date: Friday, March 2, 7:30 p.m. with pre-concert lecture by Michael Beert. Admission: $25 adults, $5 students; groups of 10 or more receive $5 off per ticket. Info: www.mendelssohnpac.org.

Rockford Symphony Orchestra Patrons: Single tickets are now on sale for ComEd Classics Series. Next concert: Valentine Bon-bons. Date: Saturday, Feb.11. Coronado Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m. Info: www.rockfordsymphony.com, or call 815-965-0049 or visit the Box Office at Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St.

Wednesday, Feb. 1

Brother K Band – Adriatic Café, 327 W. Jefferson St. 7:30 p.m. $3. Info: 815-967-9939.

Vinyl Voodoo – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 10:30 p.m. Free. Every Wed. Info: 815-962-7944.

Truman’s Ridge – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 7:30 p.m. Info: 815-787-9547.

The Sons of Many Bitches – Kryptonite Bar, 308 W. State St. 10 p.m. Info: 815-965-0931.

Karaoke with Mike – Rusty Nail, 1804 Eighth Ave. 7:30 p.m.-midnight. Every Wed. Free. Info: 815-397-2510.

Open Stage w/Jim Grass – Hope and Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. Info: 815-633-2552.

Thursday, Feb. 2

Blues Gone Wild Open Blues Jam hosted by the Howdos – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 7:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-787-9547.

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

Open Mic – The Grove, 100 E. Grove St. 6 p.m. Free. Info: 815-765-1002.

Bike Night, DJ & Karaoke – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. Info: 815-877-8007.

Open Stage – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Free. Every Thurs. Info: 815-962-7944.

Open Mic – Cronie’s Grill, 9032 N. Second St., Machesney Park. Every Thurs.

Friday, Feb. 3

“Listening Room Fridays” – JustGoods, 201 Seventh St. 7 p.m. Weekly venue for composers, acoustic and classical performers, band players. This week: Jamie Kindleyside and Andrew Holm. Free-will donations go to Charlotte’s Web. Info: http//justgoods.info/ or 815-965-8903.

The Red Sea Pedestrians – Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 415 N. Church St. 7:30 p.m. Blend of Klezmer, Greek, Gypsy, Celtic, jazz and American music. $18 advance, $20 door. Info: 815-964-2238 or www.charlotteswebofrockford.org.

Winter White Jazz Night – Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road. 6-10 p.m. Chicago jazz musicians pay tribute to some of the best. Fund-raiser for Keith Country Day School. Tickets: $25/person. Info: 815-399-8850, ext. 152.

Dirty Fishnet Stockings – Adriatic Café, 327 W. Jefferson St. Live recording. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-967-9939.

Mike Williamson & Rick Burns – Butterfly Club, 5246 E. County Road X, Beloit, Wis. 7 p.m. Info: 608-362-8577.

Superbob w/Brand New Sin & Six-hoursorrow – Bar 3, 326 E. State St. 9:30 p.m. $6. Info: 815-968-9061.

The Sensations feat. Holland Zander – Big Al’s Bar, 610 N. Bell School Road. 8:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-398-6411.

Cover Story – Hope and Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park. 7 p.m. Free. Info: 815-633-2552.

The Coop w/Brothers Rage, DJ Free Con – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 8 p.m. $8. Info: 815-787-9547.

The Lustkillers, Dick Slack & Official Lizzard Skynard Fanclub – Kryptonite Bar, 308 W. State St. 8 p.m. Info: 815-965-0931.

House Brotherhood: Kerry Atoms, DJ Loko, Nick G., DJ Mike Hawk – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-962-7944.

Pablo & the Rhythmix Band – Mustang’s Bar & Grill, 482 Gardiner, South Beloit. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 779-475-0048.

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

Karaoke – The Filling Station, 6259 11th St. Info: 815-874-5766.

Karaoke – The Grove, 100 E. Grove St., Poplar Grove. 9 p.m. Info: 815-765-1002.

Karaoke – Scanlan’s, 2921 City View Drive. 9 p.m. Info: 815-639-0000.

DJ – Backstop Bar & Grill, 1830 Union Ave., Belvidere. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-547-8100.

DJ – Oscar’s Pub & Grill, 5980 E. State St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-399-6100.

DJ – Manor Nightclub, 293 Executive Pkwy. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-394-0077.

DJ – Brewsky’s, 4414 Charles St. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-399-9300.

DJ – RBI’s, 3870 N. Perryville Road. 9 p.m. Info: 815-877-5592.

DJ – Tad’s, 10 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Info: 815-654-3500.

DJ – The Office Niteclub, 513 E. State St. 9 p.m. Info: 815-965-0344.

DJ Mark & Lana – FIBS, 105 W. Main St., Rockton. 9:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-624-6018.

DJ/Karaoke – Jayne’s Place, 2229 Anderson Drive, Belvidere. Info: 815-544-5153.

DJ/Karaoke – Red’s Neighborhood Tavern, 129 N. State St., Belvidere. Info: 815-544-6677.

Saturday, Feb. 4

Steve Ditzell and Blue Lightning – Adriatic Café, 327 W. Jefferson St. 9 p.m. $3. Info: 815-967-9939.

Wyland w/Hollow Drive, Sand, Trip Effect & Case In Point – Bar 3, 326 E. State St. 8:30 p.m. $8. Info: 815-968-9061.

Mike Williamson & Rick Burns – Butterfly Club, 5246 E. County Road X, Beloit, Wis. 7 p.m. Info: 608-362-8577.

Grey Matter Mechanics – CJ’s Lounge, 300 E. State St. 9:30 p.m. $3. Info: 815-964-7457.

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

Broken Arrow – Grant Park Tavern, 3015 Kishwaukee St. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. Info: 815-397-9819.

The Crunchy Frogs – Hope and Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-633-2552.

Early show: Kim Divine – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. Early: 5 p.m. $5. Late show: Giant Rock ‘n’ Roll All Out Attack w/Supercush, Hasta Lumbago, The Phantom Scars, Davey Dynamite, Nobelium 102. 8 p.m. Info: 815-787-9547.

The Sensations feat. Holland Zander – Kryptonite Bar, 308 W. State St. 9:30 p.m. $5. Info: 815-965-0931.

Court Street Scrappers – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-962-7944.

Helium Fuse w/Jenny Franck, Polarizer, Mind Shatter – Otto’s Niteclub & Underground, 118 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 8 p.m. $7. Info: 815-758-2715.

The Classix – Rascal’s Bar & Grill, 5223 Torque Road, Loves Park. 9 p.m. Info: 815-636-9207.

The Buzz – Splitter’s Bar & Grill, 5318 N. Second St., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Info: 815-877-6051.

Benefit for Ruthis – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. 2 p.m. Music and various artists; 9 p.m.: Smiley Virus, acoustic performance by Chad Foster & Todd Paluzzi, Shawn Unplugged, Sixhoursorrow, Forcefed Kaose, Black Damage. Info: 815-877-8007.

Open Mic – Take 20, 438 Bypass U.S. 20, Cherry Valley. 8 p.m. Info: 815-332-9920.

DJ/Karaoke – Red’s Neighborhood Tavern, 129 N. State St., Belvidere. Info: 815-544-6677.

DJ Mark & Lana – FIBS, 105 W. Main St., Rockton. 9:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-624-6018.

DJ – Tad’s, 10 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Info: 815-654-3500.

Sunday, Feb. 5

Broken Arrow – Grant Park Tavern, 3015 Kishwaukee St. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. Info: 815-397-9819.

Spook Show Entertainment’s Monthly Movie and Mixed Media Night feat. 4Lizard Productions w/4Lizard Productions – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 6 p.m.-1 a.m. $5. Info: 815-787-9547.

Open Mic – Take 20, 438 Bypass U.S. 20, Cherry Valley. 8 p.m. Info: 815-332-9920.

Super Bowl Party – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. Free food, tons of giveaways, 25-cent wings, $5 pics. Info: 815-877-8007.

Monday, Feb. 6

Vinyl Voodoo – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 10:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-962-7944.

Open mic featured artist – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. Info: 815-787-9547.

Tuesday, Feb. 7

Barb City Swing Connection – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 7 p.m. $5. Info: 815-787-9547.

Open Stage – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-962-7944.

Karaoke – Kryptonite Music Lounge, 308 W. State St. Info: 815-965-0931.

Free Pool & Karaoke with Bob – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Info: 815-877-8007.

Rehearsal for Rockford Christian Fellowship Band – First Covenant Church, 316 Wood Road. 7-9 p.m.

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 Feb. 1-7, 2012, issue

Rockford Art Museum – 711 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. Featuring: “The Chemistry of Color” thru April 22. Free for everyone every Tues. Now: Call for Entries to 72nd Rockford Midwestern Biennial. Juried Exhibition, deadline Feb. 1. Info: 815-968-2787.

Artists’ Ensemble – Rockford College Cheek Theatre, 5050 E. State St. Info: 815-903-2277 or www.artistsensemble.org.

Kortman Gallery – 107 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Exhibiting now: “The Wright Inspiration: Art, Design, and the Laurent House.” Info: 815-968-0123.

David C. Olson Photography Studio – 7801 E. State St., inside Clock Tower Resort. Wildlife and nature imagery. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-noon, Saturday. Free. Info: 815-873-1777.

Beth Ann Weis Salon & Spa – 4108 Morsay Drive, Rockford. Hours: Tues. & Fri., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thurs., noon-9 p.m.; Sat., 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Sun., Mon., Wed. Info: 815-387-2700.

Funktional Arts – 412 N. First St. Furniture & sculpture. Info: 815-969-7942.

Rockford Dance Company – Riverfront Museum Park, 711 N. Main St. Coming Jan. 28: Hansel and Gretel at Sullivan Center, 118 N. Main St., 2 and 4 p.m. Tickets: $10/person. Info: 815-815-963-3341.

Village Gallery – Stewart Square. Artists’ co-op. 45 artists. Open Wed.-Fri., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-963-ARTS.

Bonzi Productions Theatre Group – Family theater, plays, musicals. Info: 815-394-8987.

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

Galena Artists’ Guild Gallery – 324 Spring St., Galena. Thurs.-Mon., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Info: 815-777-2870.

NIU Art Museum – Hall Case Galleries, 116 Altgeld Hall, DeKalb. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., noon-4 p.m. Exhibiting Jan. 10-Feb. 25: New to the Collection. Selection of artwork recently donated to NIU. Free. Info: 815-753-1936.

Rockford College Art Gallery – Clark Arts Center, 5050 E. State St. 3-6 p.m., Tues.-Fri. Info: 815-226-4105.

Womanspace – Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Mon.-Thurs., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Info: 815-877-0118.

Beloit Fine Arts Incubator – 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Other hours by appointment. Exhibiting now: The Artists of L’Atelier thru Jan. 27. Info: 608-313-9083.

Monroe Arts Center – 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Now exhibiting: Earth’s Canvas, group exhibit running thru Feb. 17. Info: 608-325-5700 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

ArtSpace West – 1426 N. Main St. Tues.-Fri., 3-8 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Info: 630-546-4727 or 815-988-1501.

Age Quake Theatre – Plays for and about those 55 and older performed in the greater Rockford area. Info: 815-398-8090.

Byron Civic Theatre – 850 N. Colfax, Byron. Playing Jan. 27-29 and Feb. 3-5: Mister Roberts. Info: 815-312-3000.

Cholke Photography & Fine Art Gallery – 2211 E. State St. Fri., 7:30-10 p.m.; Sat., 4:30-10 p.m.; Sun., 2-5 p.m. Free. Info: 815-226-9398.

The Fireside Theatre – Fort Atkinson, Wis. Now playing: Viva Vegas thru March 4. Info: 800-477-9505 or www.firesidetheatre.com.

Found It! Gallery – 107 Monroe St., Genoa. After-school arts & crafts from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Tues.-Fri. for kids ages 3-14. Cost: $3 if you sign up at least the day before, $5 drop-in, $10 for all four days. Info: 815-601-2375.

Freeport Art Museum –121 N. Harlem Ave., Freeport. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., noon-5 p.m. Exhibiting now: 8th Annual Juried Exhibition, thru Feb. 3. Info: 815-235-9755.

DeKalb Area Women’s Center – 1021 State St., DeKalb. Fridays 7-9 p.m. Info: 815-758-1351.

Tom Littrell Design & Art Studio – 317 Market St., Rockford. Info: 815-519-5288.

Pec Playhouse Theatre – 314 Main St., Pecatonica.Info: 815-239-1210.

Timber Lake Playhouse – 8215 Black Oak Road, Mt. Carroll. Info: 815-244-2035.

Ingrid Dohm Studio Gallery – 839 N. Perryville Road. Appointments/Info: 815-519-6492.

Midtown Marketplace – 203 Seventh St. Info: 815-961-1269.

The Gallery At JustGoods – 201 Seventh St. Currently seeking local artist to present works in the Community/Art room. Info: 815-965-8903.

Charlotte Hackin Art Studio & Gallery – 6278 Brynwood Drive. Info: 815-639-1318.

Bliss Beads Studio & Gallery – 161 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb, Ill. Weekly classes in bead jewelry making, silversmithing and flamework glass. Now thru Feb. 4: Folded Copper. Regular hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Info: 815-517-0164.

Woodstock Musical Theatre Company – Woodstock Opera House,121 VanBuren St., Woodstock. Jan. 29 & 30: Auditions for Annie Get Your Gun. Info: 815-338-5300.

Northwestern Illinois Theater Coalition – Opening February 2012: The Cheddar Curtain. Info: 815-281-0138.

Rock Valley College – Estelle M. Black Library, Educational Resource Building, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Now thru Feb. 20: Exhibit of early Chinese ceramics from the Neolithic period, Han, Tang, Song, Jin and Liao dynasties. Mon.-Thurs., 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fridays, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Womanspace, Gallery 1 – 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Exhibit thru Feb. 23: “Realism or Not. Works by a group of artists in oil, acrylic, watercolor, glass, beadwork, pastel and mixed media. Info: 815-877-0118.

Wednesday, Jan. 25

NIU School of Art Faculty Exhibition – NIU Art Museum, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thru Feb. 25. Info: 815-753-1936.

The New Art Examiner, “Chicago’s Independent Voice of the Visual Arts,” 1973-2002 – NIU Art Museum, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thru March 10. Info: 815-753-1936.

Thursday, Jan. 26

Viva Vegas – The Fireside Theatre, Fort Atkinson, Wis. Info: 800-477-9505 or www.firesidetheatre.com.

Friday, Jan. 27

Mister Roberts – Byron Civic Theatre, 850 N. Colfax, Byron. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $12 adults, $10 seniors, $6 students. Info: 815-312-3000.

Saturday, Jan. 28

Hansel and Gretel – Sullivan Center, 118 N. Main St., 2 and 4 p.m. Presented by Rockford Dance Company. Tickets: $10/person. Info: 815-815-963-3341.

Mister Roberts – Byron Civic Theatre, 850 N. Colfax, Byron. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $12 adults, $10 seniors, $6 students. Info: 815-312-3000.

Sunday, Jan. 29

Auditions for Annie Get Your Gun – Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. For children ages 10-14, 6-7 p.m.; adults ages 16 and older, 7-9 p.m. Performances in April and May. Info: 815-338-5300.

Mister Roberts – Byron Civic Theatre, 850 N. Colfax, Byron. 2 p.m. Tickets: $12 adults, $10 seniors, $6 students. Info: 815-312-3000.

Monday, Jan. 30

Auditions for Annie Get Your Gun – Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. For children ages 10-14, 6-7 p.m.; adults ages 16 and up, 7-9 p.m. Performances in April and May. Info: 815-338-5300.

Tuesday, Jan. 31

New to the Collection – NIU Art Museum, Hall Case Galleries, 116 Altgeld Hall, DeKalb. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., noon-4 p.m. Exhibiting Jan. 10-Feb. 25. Selection of artwork recently donated to NIU. Free. Info: 815-753-1936.

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 Jan. 25-31, 2012, issue

Rockford Public Library Hours – Main Library open Tues.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m., Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; East Branch open Mon.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Rock River and Montague branches open Tues.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Rockton Centre Branch open Mon.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Lewis Lemon Branch open Mon.-Fri., 2-6 p.m. All library locations closed Sundays.

Burpee Museum of Natural History – 737 N. Main St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Exhibiting thru April 29, 2012: “Ice Age Mammals.” Admission: $8 adults, $7 children 3-17, free for children younger than 3 and members; additional fee for traveling exhibits. Info: 815-965-3433.

Discovery Center Museum – 711 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $7 adults, $7 children. Opening Jan. 28: About Robots: The Interactive Exhibition thru April 29. Info: 815-963-6769.

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

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden – 2715 S. Main St. Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Sundays and Mondays until April. Admission $6 adults, $3 seniors & students, children younger than 3 and Klehm members, free. Donation Day is now first Tuesday of each month. Admission free, donations of any amount welcome. Info: 815-965-8146.

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

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

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

Rockford Park District Indoor Adult Golf Clinics – Indoor Sports Center, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd. Mondays, 12:30-1:20 p.m. or 1:30-2:20 p.m. Taught by PGA members and apprentices. Thru March 14. Info: 815-987-8800.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stone Quarry Recreation Park – 6845 N. German Church Road, Byron. Mon.-Fri., 4-8 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., noon-8 p.m. Info: 815-234-8900.

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

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

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

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

Support for Retired Grievers – Zion Lutheran Church, 925 Fifth Ave. 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Every other Wed. Call for dates/info: 815-636-4750.

Overeaters Anonymous H.O.W. – Every Thursday at Byron Public Library, Route 2. 12-step study group — 5:30-6 p.m. Regular group meets 6-7:30 p.m. Info: 815-734-4662.

Rockford Public Library Used Book Shop – Rockford Public Library, 215 N. Wyman St. Mon.-Wed., noon-8 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

Womanspace – 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Yoga every Thursday, 9:30-10:45 a.m. $40/four classes or $12/class. Basic Hatha Yoga. Other activities throughout the year. Info: 815-877-0118.

Beckman Mill Park – 11600 S. County Road H, off Highway 81. Tours 1-4 p.m. Corn grinding demonstrations, see the blacksmith shop, creamery & visitor center. Info: 608-751-1551.

Heritage Farm Museum – 8059 N. River Road, Byron. Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 217.

Poplar Grove Vintage Wings and Wheels Museum – 5151 Orth Road, Poplar Grove. Open weekdays 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Info: 815-547-3115.

Rock River Valley Blood Center – 419 N. Sixth St. Mon.-Thurs., 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Fri., 6:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Info: 815-965-8751 or 866-889-9037.

Kishwaukee Valley A.B.A.T.E. Meeting – V.F.W., 2018 Windsor Road, Loves Park. Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. Info: 815-544-3088.

Open Doors – Court Street United Methodist Church Chapel, 215 N. Court St. 12:30-1 p.m. Every Wed. Enter north end. Info: 815-962-6061.

Historic Auto Attractions – 13825 Metric Drive, Roscoe. Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Info: 815-389-9999.

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

Byron Museum of History – 106 N. Union St., Byron. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-234-5031.

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

Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off – Rock River Water Reclamation District, 3333 Kishwaukee St. Sat., 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., noon-4 p.m.

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

Rockton Township Historical Society Museum – Corner of Blackhawk Boulevard & Green Street, Rockton. Open for tours every Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-624-4830.

Singles 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. Info: 815-632-9880 or 815-563-4309 or 815-275-7179.

Having Trouble Hearing on the Phone? – Center for Sight & Hearing, 8038 Macintosh Lane. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri. Free amplified phone program. Must be Illinois resident and have standard phone service. Application/info: 815-332-6800.

Winnebago County Health Dept. Flu Vaccine Available – For flu clinic schedule, call 815-720-4264 or go to www.wchd.org.

Stretch & Belly Dance Combo Beginners’ Class – Club Round, 7120 Windsor Lake Parkway. 7:30-9 p.m. Classes every Mon., Wed. & Fri. Registration/info: 815-639-0312.

Adventure Club – Jarrett Center, Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road, Byron. 9-11 a.m. or 1-3 p.m. Ages 3-6. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Intermediate Writing/Publishing Class – Meets every Mon. Call for information. Info: 224-343-0384.

Introduction to Card-Making/Stamping – Meets every Thurs. Call for information. Info: 224-343-0384.

Toddler Time – Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 2001 N. Alpine Road. 9:15-10:15 a.m. Every Mon. and Tues. Free. Info: 815-399-3171.

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.

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

Yoga Classes – Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 Third Ave., Rockford. Mondays, 6-7:15 p.m., six weeks consecutive, $45 or single classes, $10 each. Register/Info: 815-963-4815.

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

Lazy Dog Yoga Studio – 5428 Williams Drive, Roscoe. $10 per drop-in class or 6 classes for $50. Chair Yoga every Friday at noon, Kundalini Yoga every Saturday at 9 a.m. Info: 970-485-0249.

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.

Nominations sought for NLI George & Barbara Fell Award – Individuals with outstanding achievements in land conservation. Submit to Natural Land Institute, 815-964-6666 or www.NaturalLand.org. Deadline: Jan. 27.

Reservations for OSF St. Anthony 58th Annual Pink Ball – Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road. Date: Jan. 28, 6 p.m. Info/tickets: 815-395-5333.

Reservations for Garlic Dinner at Abreo – 515 E. State St. Date: Feb. 7, 5-9 p.m. Cost: $40/person (excluding tax & gratuity). Seating is limited. RSVP: 815-96-9463.

Registration for Ice Fishing – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Jan. 29. Meet at Jarrett Center at 7a.m., fish until 10 a.m. $5. For all ages, younger than 5 is free. Register by Jan. 27. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University – Valley Evangelical Covenant Church, 103 S. Maple St. (Rt. 72 & Maple St.), Stillman Valley. Program starts Feb. 13 with 45-minute preview of program Sun., Jan. 29 at 12:30 p.m. Info: 815-645-8872.

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

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

Wednesday, Jan. 25

Free Admission at Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens – 1354 N. Second St., Rockford. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Highlights: “Herbal Teas & Your Health” — 5-6 p.m. Shop at Garden Gate Gifts. Info: 815-987-8898.

26th Annual Snow Sculpting Competition – Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. Second St. Eight teams from Illinois compete.

Public Meeting to Discuss Plan for Amateur Sports in Rockford Region – Rockford Park District Webbs Norman Center, Board Room, 401 S. Main St. 5:30 p.m. Copy of plan is available at www.reclaimingfirst.org.

DigiPhoto – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 2-4 p.m. Ages 16 and older. Bring camera with memory card, all cables and power cord or charger and instruction booklet, also USB drive to save pictures. Info: 815-965-7606.

Free EKG Screenings for High School Students – Belvidere Medical Center, 1700 Henry Luckow Lane. Appointments are scheduled every 15 minutes and begin at 5:30 p.m. Info: 815-968-4400, ext. 62894 or asammons@swedishamerican.org.

RU Ready to be an Entrepreneur? – Rock Valley College Technology Center, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Free. Sponsored by SCORE. Info: www.northernillinoisscore.org/workshop-ruready.html.

Babes and Books – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 11:15 a.m.-noon. Children younger than 2. Develop baby’s literacy & social skills through rhymes, stories, songs. Info: 815-965-7606.

YA Monthly Movies @ Main: Priest –Rockford Public Library, Main Library Auditorium, 215 N. Wyman St. Rated PG-13. Ages 12-19. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Info: 815-965-7606.

Online Job Search – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 6-8 pm. Ages 13 and older. Must be proficient with Internet Explorer. Info: 815-965-7606.

Diabetes Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Francis Room, 5666 E. State St. 6:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-395-5159.

Sticky Note Creation Competition – Rockford Public Library, Main Library YA Zone, 215 N. Wyman St. 5-8 p.m. Ages 13-19. Build a video game character out of sticky notes. Info: 815-965-7606.

Weight Loss Orientation – OSF Saint Anthony Center for Health, rotates among three OSF locations. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. every Wed. Info: 815-395-4505.

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

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.

Comedy Night – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. Info: 815-877-8007.

Thursday, Jan. 26

Goodwill Hosts Ribbon Cutting Ceremony – Mission Services/Administration Building, 615 N. Longwood St. 9 a.m. Tours to be given following the event. Speakers: Einar Forsman, president of Rockford Chamber of Commerce, and Sam Schmitz, president of Goodwill Industries.

26th Annual Snow Sculpting Competition – Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. Second St. Eight teams from Illinois compete.

Bundle Up! – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, 6685 E. State St. 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

Rockford Housing Authority Board of Commissioners Meeting – 223 S. Winnebago St. 4 p.m. Info: 815-489-8500.

QuickBooks Workshop – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 6-8 p.m. Ages 18 and older. Info: 815-965-7606.

Owl Prowl – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. 7 p.m. Take a night hike; meet at Jarrett Center. $2/person. Register by Jan. 25. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Katie’s Choice Book Club – Katie’s Cup, 502 Seventh St. 10 a.m. Book: The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay. Info: 815-962-4279.

Look, Listen and Learn Storytime – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, 6685 E. State St. 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Ages 3-6 Info: 815-965-7606.

Bilingual Thursdays Storytime (Spanish/English) – Rockford Public Library, Rock River Branch, Program Room, 3128 11th St. 4-4:45 p.m. Ages 3-8. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

Made in America: Mammals – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. 5-7 p.m. Meet at Jarrett Center. All ages. Register by Dec. 21. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Sunset Storytime – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 6:30–7:15 p.m. Ages 4-10. Info: 815-965-7606.

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.

Stories by the Fire – Rockford Public Library, Rock River Branch, 3128 11th St. 6:30-7:30 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

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

Swing Dancing – St. Edward Church, 3004 11th St. 8-10:30 p.m. Every Thurs. Info: 815-914-7441.

Preschool Picnic Storytime – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. Noon-12:45 p.m. Ages 3-6. Bring a lunch. 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.

Support for Grief After Suicide – Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 4700 Augustana Drive. 7 p.m. Free. Every other Thurs. Call for schedule/info: 815-399-0202.

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

Learn Self-Hypnosis for Wellness – enTrance Center, 5844 Elaine Drive, Rockford. 6:30-8 p.m. $25. Call in advance: 815-397-5901.

Unplugged Gamers Night – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, Young Adult Zone, 215 N. Wyman St. 5-7 p.m. Ages 13-19. 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, Jan. 27

Comedy Night – Franchesco’s Ristorante, 2404 Perryville Road. 9 p.m. Hosted by Sky Drysdale, featuring Dobie Maxwell. $5 cover. Patrons can stop in early to receive 50 percent off appetizers. $2.50 Miller family bottles offered all night. Reserve: 815-229-0800.

71st Annual Winnebago Co. Soil & Water Conservation District Meeting & Awards Luncheon – Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St. Registration at 11 a.m., lunch at noon. Election of directors and awards ceremony. Silent auction. Tickets: $14, from SWCD directors, office, 4833 Owen Center Road, or day of meeting. Call 815-965-2392, ext. 3.

26th Annual Snow Sculpting Competition – Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. Second St. Eight teams from Illinois compete.

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

Diabetes Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Francis Room, 5666 E. State St. 6:30 p.m. open discussion. Free. Info: 815-395-5159.

Wellness for the Mind, Body & Spirit Lecture Series: Natural Health – Siena on Brendenwood, 4444 Brendenwood Road. 1:30 p.m. Ryan Hulsebus, D.C. Info: 815-399-6167.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Tues., Thurs. & Fridays during school year, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Extra Friday session, 8-10 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Saturday, Jan. 28

About Robots: The Interactive Exhibition – Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $7 adults, $7 children. Admission to exhibit, $2 for members, $11 for public; includes museum admission. Thru April 29. Info: 815-963-6769.

26th Annual Snow Sculpting Competition – Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. Second St. Eight teams from Illinois compete.

OSF Saint Anthony Sibling Class – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, 5666 E. State St. 10-11 a.m. Fee: $5/family. Registration is required. Info: 815-227-2695.

OSF Saint Anthony 58th Annual Pink Ball – Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road. 6 p.m. Info/tickets: 815-395-5333.

Volunteer with PAWS Open Houses – Four PAWS ReSale Boutique, 1414 N. Main St. and PETCO, 6305 E. State St., Forest Plaza. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Talk to representatives and find out how you can help. Info: 815-299-7297 or www.PAWSHS.org.

Winter Festival – Cherry Valley Public Library District, 755 E. State St., Cherry Valley. 1 p.m. Winter stories, games, crafts, sledding relay, snowball relay, scavenger hunt, snow science station, bird feeder creation, etc. Info: 815-332-5161.

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

Aloha Winter Luau – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 3-4:30 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

Alpha Club Monthly Potluck – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, Foundation Room, 5666 E. State St. 6 p.m. For widowed persons. Gentlemen bring drinks or snacks, ladies bring a dish to pass. Info: 815-633-9530.

Ethnic Heritage Museum Celebrates Black History Month – 1129 S. Main St. “A Salute to the Divine Nine” exhibit (Greek letter African-American fraternities and sororities), 2-4 p.m. Italian Dinner Buffet/Divine Nine showcase with Step Show, Burpee Center, Regents Hall, Rockford College, 6 p.m. Tickets: $35 adults, $15 students. Info: 815-962-7402.

Snowshoeing (with instruction) – Seth B. Atwood Park. Youth must be accompanied by an adult during the program. Pre-registration requested. Info: 815-874-7576.

Fourth Annual Groundhog Gala – Midwest Museum of Natural History, 425 W. State St., Sycamore. 6-9 p.m. Music, exhibitors, silent auction, open bar. Tickets: $30 each or two for $50. Info: 815-895-9777.

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

Paranormal Evening at the Tinker Swiss Cottage – 411 S. Kent St., Rockford. 7-9 p.m. With presentation by author Stephen Osborne. Cost: $15. Info: 815-871-4239.

Family Skate – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road, Loves Park. 8 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Adult Grief Support Group – Beloit Regional Hospice Office, 655 Third St., Suite 200, Beloit, Wis. 6-7:30 p.m. Info: 608-363-7421.

Kundalini Yoga – Lazy Dog Yoga Studio, 5428 Williams Drive, Roscoe. 7:30 a.m. Info: 970-485-0249.

Public Skating – Riverview Ice House, 324 N. Madison St. Info: 815-963-7465.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Info: 815-969-4069.

Hockey: Rockford IceHogs vs. Milwaukee Admirals – BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St. 7 p.m. VIP (formerly Glass Level]: $27; Lower Level Sidelines: $23; Lower Level Endzone: $20’ Upper Level Sideline: $17; Upper Level Endzone; $14, Terrace Level: $8. Info: 815-968-5222.

Sunday, Jan. 29

Open House & Book Fair – St. Paul Lutheran School, 811 Locust St., Rockford. Noon-3 p.m. in the school gymnasium. Learn about 42 percent tuition reduction beginning next school year; enjoy activities. Art show of students’ work; 1:30 p.m. band concert. Info: 815-3335, ext. 215 or www.stpaulrockford.org/school.

Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University – Valley Evangelical Covenant Church, 103 S. Maple St. (Rt. 72 & Maple St.), Stillman Valley. Program starts Feb. 13 with 45-minute preview of program Sun., Jan. 29 at 12:30 p.m. Info: 815-645-8872.

About Robots: The Interactive Exhibition – Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 1-4 p.m. $7 adults, $7 children. Admission to exhibit, $2 for members, $11 for public; includes museum admission. Thru April 29. Info: 815-963-6769.

Ethnic Heritage Museum Celebrates Black History Month – 1129 S. Main St. “A Salute to the Divine Nine” exhibit (Greek letter African-American fraternities and sororities), 2-5 p.m. Unveiling of exhibit & reception, 2-5 p.m. at the museum. Info: 815-962-7402.

An Afternoon with Mrs. Lincoln – Cherry Valley Public Library District, 755 E. State St., Cherry Valley. 2 p.m. Actress Laura F. Keyes shares Mrs. Lincoln’s story of life and losses. Free. Info: 815-332-5161.

CROP Hunger Walk Thank You Dessert Event – Christ United Methodist Church, 4509 Highcrest Road. 3 p.m. Presentation of check to Rockford Food Pantry Coalition; hear speaker Dawn Rourke, executive director of Midwest Region Church World Service. RSVP: 815-540-3703 or davidj6226@aol.com.

Art Workshop – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Noon-4 p.m. Meet at Keller Center. For ages 6 and up. Cost: $10/person. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Frosty and Friends Ice Skating – Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Road. 2-4 p.m. Learn to Skate lessons, music by a live DJ, prize drawings. Admission includes skate rental, $5; free for ages 2 and younger. Info: 815-987-8800.

Monday, Jan. 30

Kids Club – Rockford Public Library, Lewis Lemon Branch, 1988 W. Jefferson St. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Ages 6-12. Info: 815-965-7606.

MS PowerPoint 2010 – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 6-8 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Prerequisite: Proficient familiarity with computers. Info: 815-965-7606.

Infant/Toddler CPR – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Anthony and St. Joseph rooms, 5666 E. State St. 7-9 p.m. Cost: $12.50/person or free to those who attend “Baby 101” or Baby Express. Info: 815-227-2695.

Tuesday, Jan. 31

Alzheimer’s Association Educational Program – Rock River Area Branch, 93 S. Hennepin, Dixon. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Speaker Aubrie McShane, education specialist with Alzheimer’s Association, Central Illinois Chapter. Free and open to public, but registration by Jan. 30 is required. Info: 800-285-1100.

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

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

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 Jan. 25-31, 2012, issue

Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center 2012-2013 Concert Season – Subscription packages or single tickets available. Next concerts: Avalon String Quartet Concert Program 3 - “Sturm and Drang.” Date: Friday, Jan. 27. 7 p.m. $10/adults, $5/students.Young Musicians Series Recital: “The Harmony of Music.” Date: Jan. 28, 1:30 p.m. Free. Debussy, le magnifique. Date: Friday, March 2, 7:30 p.m. with pre-concert lecture by Michael Beert. Admission: $25 adults, $5 students; groups of 10 or more receive $5 off per ticket. Info: www.mendelssohnpac.org.

Rockford Symphony Orchestra Patrons: Single tickets are now on sale forComEd Classics Series. Next concert: Valentine Bon-bons. Date: Saturday, Feb.11. Coronado Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m. Info: www.rockfordsymphony.com, or call 815-965-0049 or visit the Box Office at Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St.

MAC Radio Live-2012 Showcase of Talent – Monroe High School Performing Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Dates: Jan. 27, 28. 7:30 p.m. General admission: $10 adults, $5 students (18 and younger), tickets at box office. Info: 608-325-5700, 888-596-1249 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

Rockford Area Music Industry Youth Charity Jam Applications deadline and Recording Nominations deadline is Jan. 30. Info: 815-546-3021.

Wednesday, Jan. 25

“March Madness” Concert – United Methodist Church, Monroe, Wis. 12:15 p.m. Repeated at St. Victor Catholic Church, Monroe, Wis. 5:30 p.m. Marches written or transcribed for organ. Saint-Saens, Dubois, Grieg, Mendelssohn, and others. Free.

Brother K Band – Adriatic Club, 327 W. Jefferson St. 7:30 p.m. $3. Info: 815-967-9939.

Vinyl Voodoo – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 10:30 p.m. Free. Every Wed. Info: 815-962-7944.

Karaoke with Mike – Rusty Nail, 1804 Eighth Ave. 7:30 p.m.-midnight. Every Wed. Free. Info: 815-397-2510.

Open Stage w/Jim Grass – Hope and Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. Info: 815-633-2552.

Thursday, Jan. 26

Anew Revolution w/Anchored, Soulicit, Case In Point, Marquette – Bar 3, 326 E. State St. 8 p.m. $10. Info: 815-968-9061.

Empires w/Adora, Gentlemen’s Guild & Jacob’s Cabin – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 8 p.m. $8. Info: 815-787-9547.

Jon Drake & The Shakes w/Chaperone, Aktar Aktar, Shiloh & Dave Green – Otto’s Niteclub & Underground, 118 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 8 p.m. $7, ages 21 and older. Info: 815-758-2715.

Open Mic – The Grove, 100 E. Grove St., Poplar Grove. 6 p.m. Free. Info: 815-765-1002.

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

Bike Night, DJ & Karaoke – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. Info: 815-877-8007.

Open Stage – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Free. Every Thurs. Info: 815-962-7944.

Open Mic – Cronie’s Grill, 9032 N. Second St., Machesney Park. Every Thurs.

Friday, Jan. 27

“Listening Room Fridays” – JustGoods, 201 Seventh St. 7 p.m. Weekly venue for composers, acoustic and classical performers, band players. This week: Matt Flamm hosts Open Mic. Free-will donations go to Charlotte’s Web. Info: http//justgoods.info/ or 815-965-8903.

Avalon String Quartet Concert Program 3 - “Sturm and Drang” – Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 415 N. Church St. 7 p.m. $60 for whole series, single tickets, $10/adults, $5/students. Info: 815-964-9713 or www.mendelssohnpac.org.

MAC Radio Live-2012 Showcase of Talent – Monroe High School Performing Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. 7:30 p.m. General admission: $10 adults, $5 students (18 and younger), tickets available at box office. Info: 608-325-5700, 888-596-1249 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

Steve Ditzell – Adriatic Club, 327 W. Jefferson St. 9:30 p.m. $3. Info: 815-967-9939.

Mötley Crüde w/Sinister Fate – Bar 3, 326 E. State St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-968-9061.

Cash Box Kings – Big Al’s Bar, 610 N. Bell School Road. 8:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-398-6411.

Jon Drake & The Shakes w/Ellis Sieberling – DC Cobb’s, 226 Main St., Woodstock, Ill. 10 p.m. $5, ages 21 and older. Info: 815-206-5580.

Harlan Jefferson – Hope and Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park. 7 p.m. Free. Info: 815-633-2552.

Old Soul Company w/The Earnest Nellis Band, Relish, TBA – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 8 p.m. Info: 815-787-9547.

Daddy’s Got a New .45 (Sublime cover band] – Kryptonite Bar, 308 W. State St. 8 p.m. $5. Info: 815-965-0931.

Smiley Virus – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-962-7944.

High Infidelity – Otto’s Niteclub & Underground, 118 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 9 p.m. $8/$5 ID. Info: 815-58-2715.

Stampede – Shooter’s Bar & Grill East, 7171 Cherryvale Blvd., Cherry Valley. 9 p.m. Info: 815-332-5229.

Karaoke – The Filling Station, 6259 11th St. Info: 815-874-5766.

Karaoke – The Grove, 100 E. Grove St., Poplar Grove. 9 p.m. Info: 815-765-1002.

Karaoke – Scanlan’s, 2921 City View Drive. 9 p.m. Info: 815-639-0000.

DJ – Backstop Bar & Grill, 1830 Union Ave., Belvidere. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-547-8100.

DJ – Oscar’s Pub & Grill, 5980 E. State St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-399-6100.

DJ – Manor Nightclub, 293 Executive Pkwy. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-394-0077.

DJ – Brewsky’s, 4414 Charles St. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-399-9300.

DJ – RBI’s, 3870 N. Perryville Road. 9 p.m. Info: 815-877-5592.

DJ – Tad’s, 10 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Info: 815-654-3500.

DJ – The Office Niteclub, 513 E. State St. 9 p.m. Info: 815-965-0344.

DJ Mark & Lana – FIBS, 105 W. Main St., Rockton. 9:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-624-6018.

DJ/Karaoke – Jayne’s Place, 2229 Anderson Drive, Belvidere. Info: 815-544-5153.

DJ/Karaoke – Red’s Neighborhood Tavern, 129 N. State St., Belvidere. Info: 815-544-6677.

Saturday, Jan. 28

Young Musicians Series Recital: “The Harmony of Music” – Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 415 N. Church St. 1:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-964-9713.

MAC Radio Live-2012 Showcase of Talent – Monroe High School Performing Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. 7:30 p.m. General admission: $10 adults, $5 students (18 and younger), tickets available at box office. Info: 608-325-5700, 888-596-1249 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

The Crastinators – Adriatic Club, 327 W. Jefferson St. 9:30 p.m. $3. Info: 815-967-9939.

TraSH 80s – Bar 3, 326 E. State St. 9:30 p.m. $5. Info: 815-968-9061.

Missing Links – Big Al’s Bar, 610 N. Bell School Road. 8:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-398-6411.

Pistol Pete – Grant Park Tavern, 3015 Kishwaukee St. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. Info: 815-397-9819.

Southern Charm – The Grove, 100 E. Grofe St., Poplar Grove. 9 p.m. Info: 815-765-1002.

Prime Time Live– Hope and Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-633-2552.

Saint Astro, Mitch Munns, Under the Willow, Steven Schultz & AJ Paredones – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 7 p.m. Info: 815-787-9547.

Empty Pockets Band w/Jesse Fox and Fox DeLuxe – Kryptonite Bar, 308 W. State St. 9 p.m. $5. Info: 815-965-0931.

Kelly Steward & The Restless Kind – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-962-7944.

Gregory Hyde w/Jake Mack, Lucrezio & North of Eight – Otto’s Niteclub & Underground, 118 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 9 p.m. $7. Info: 815-758-2715.

X51 – Rascals Bar & Grill, 5223 Torque Road, Loves Park. 9 p.m. Info: 815-636-9207.

The Sensations feat. Holland Zander – Shooter’s Bar & Grill, 4007 E. State St. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-654-3900.

Bullet – Shooter’s Bar & Grill East, 7171 Cherryvale Blvd., Cherry Valley. 9 p.m. Info: 815-332-5229.

County Line – Splitters Bar & Grill, 5318 N. Second St., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Info: 815-877-6051.

Open Mic – Take 20, 438 Bypass U.S. 20, Cherry Valley. 8 p.m. Info: 815-332-9920.

Tripping Tarzan – Town Hall Lounge, 5624 N. Second St., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-636-9996.

DJ/Karaoke – Red’s Neighborhood Tavern, 129 N. State St., Belvidere. Info: 815-544-6677.

DJ Mark & Lana – FIBS, 105 W. Main St., Rockton. 9:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-624-6018.

DJ – Tad’s, 10 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Info: 815-654-3500.

Sunday, Jan. 29

Margaret Dean in Organ Concert – St. Mark Lutheran Church, 675 N. Mulford Road. 7 p.m. Free-will offering. Info: 815-398-3587.

Helium Fuse w/Edge of Doubt, TBA – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 7 p.m. Info: 815-787-9547.

Open Mic – Take 20, 438 Bypass U.S. 20, Cherry Valley. 8 p.m. Info: 815-332-9920.

Karaoke with Bob – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Info: 815-877-8007.

Monday, Jan. 30

Blues In The Schools – Blackhawk Elementary School, South Beloit, morning. Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School, Rockford, afternoon. Presented by Crossroads Blues Society with Fruteland Jackson.

Vinyl Voodoo – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 10:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-962-7944.

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

Open mic featured artist – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. Info: 815-787-9547.

Tuesday, Jan. 31

Miles Nielsen Songwriters’ Night – Adriatic Club, 327 W. Jefferson St. 8 p.m. $5. Info: 815-967-9939.

Chicago Winter – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 7 p.m. Info: 815-787-9547.

Open Stage – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-962-7944.

Karaoke – Kryptonite Music Lounge, 308 W. State St. Info: 815-965-0931.

Free Pool & Karaoke with Bob – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Info: 815-877-8007.

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 Jan. 25-31, 2012, issue

Rockford Art Museum – 711 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. Featuring: “The Chemistry of Color” thru April 22. Free for everyone every Tues. Now: Call for Entries to 72nd Rockford Midwestern Biennial. Juried Exhibition, deadline Feb. 1, 2012. Info: 815-968-2787.

Artists’ Ensemble – Rockford College Cheek Theatre, 5050 E. State St. Info: 815-903-2277 or www.artistsensemble.org.

Kortman Gallery – 107 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Exhibiting now: “The Wright Inspiration: Art, Design, and the Laurent House.” Info: 815-968-0123.

David C. Olson Photography Studio – 7801 E. State St., inside Clock Tower Resort. Wildlife and nature imagery. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-noon, Saturday. Free. Info: 815-873-1777.

Funktional Arts – 412 N. First St. Furniture & sculpture. Info: 815-969-7942.

Rockford Dance Company – Riverfront Museum Park, 711 N. Main St. Coming Jan. 28: Hansel and Gretel at Sullivan Center, 118 N. Main St., 2 and 4 p.m. Tickets: $10/person. Info: 815-815-963-3341.

Village Gallery – Stewart Square. Artists’ co-op. 45 artists. Open Wed.-Fri., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-963-ARTS.

Bonzi Productions Theatre Group – Family theater, plays, musicals. Info: 815-394-8987.

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

Galena Artists’ Guild Gallery – 324 Spring St., Galena. Thurs.-Mon., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Info: 815-777-2870.

NIU Art Museum – Hall Case Galleries, 116 Altgeld Hall, DeKalb. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., noon-4 p.m. Exhibiting Jan. 10-Feb. 25: New to the Collection. Selection of artwork recently donated to NIU. Free. Info: 815-753-1936.

Rockford College Art Gallery – Clark Arts Center, 5050 E. State St. 3-6 p.m., Tues.-Fri. Info: 815-226-4105.

Womanspace – Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Mon.-Thurs., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Info: 815-877-0118.

Beloit Fine Arts Incubator – 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.Other hours by appointment. Exhibiting now: The Artists of L’Atelier thru Jan. 27. Info: 608-313-9083.

Monroe Arts Center – 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Now exhibiting: Earth’s Canvas, group exhibit running thru Feb. 17. Info: 608-325-5700 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

ArtSpace West – 1426 N. Main St. Tues.-Fri., 3-8 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Info: 630-546-4727 or 815-988-1501.

Age Quake Theatre – Plays for and about those 55 and older performed in the greater Rockford area. Info: 815-398-8090.

Byron Civic Theatre – 850 N. Colfax, Byron. Coming Jan. 27-29 and Feb. 3-5: Mister Roberts. Hours: 6-9 p.m., Mon.-Thurs. and 9 a.m.-noon, Sat. Info: 815-312-3000

Cholke Photography & Fine Art Gallery – 2211 E. State St. Fri., 7:30-10 p.m.; Sat., 4:30-10 p.m.; Sun., 2-5 p.m. Free. Info: 815-226-9398.

The Fireside Theatre – Fort Atkinson, Wis. Now playing: Viva Vegas thru March 4. Info: 800-477-9505 or www.firesidetheatre.com.

Found It! Gallery – 107 Monroe St., Genoa. After school arts & crafts from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Tues.-Fri. for kids ages 3-14. Cost: $3 if you sign up at least the day before, $5 drop-in, $10 for all four days. Info: 815-601-2375.

Freeport Art Museum –121 N. Harlem Ave., Freeport. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., noon-5 p.m. Exhibiting now: 8th Annual Juried Exhibition, thru Feb. 3, 2012. Info: 815-235-9755.

DeKalb Area Women’s Center – 1021 State St., DeKalb. Fridays 7-9 p.m. Info: 815-758-1351.

Tom Littrell Design & Art Studio – 317 Market St., Rockford. Info: 815-519-5288.

Pec Playhouse Theatre – 314 Main St., Pecatonica.Info: 815-239-1210.

Timber Lake Playhouse – 8215 Black Oak Road, Mt. Carroll. Info: 815-244-2035.

Ingrid Dohm Studio Gallery – 839 N. Perryville Road. Appointments/Info: 815-519-6492.

Midtown Marketplace – 203 Seventh St. Info: 815-961-1269.

The Gallery At JustGoods – 201 Seventh St. Currently seeking local artist to present works in the Community/Art room. Info: 815-965-8903.

Charlotte Hackin Art Studio & Gallery – 6278 Brynwood Drive. Info: 815-639-1318.

Bliss Beads Studio & Gallery – 161 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb, Ill. Weekly classes in bead jewelry making, silversmithing and flamework glass. Now thru Feb. 4: Folded Copper. Regular hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Info: 815-517-0164.

Woodstock Musical Theatre Company – Woodstock Opera House,121 VanBuren St., Woodstock. Info: 815-338-5300.

Northwestern Illinois Theater Coalition – Opening February 2012: The Cheddar Curtain. Info: 815-281-0138.

Rock Valley College – Estelle M. Black Library, Educational Resource Building, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Now thru Feb. 20: Exhibit of early Chinese ceramics from the Neolithic period, Han, Tang, Song, Jin and Liao dynasties. Mon.-Thurs., 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fridays, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Womanspace, Gallery 1 – 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Exhibit thru Feb. 23: “Realism or Not.” Works by a group of artists in oil, acrylic, watercolor, glass, beadwork, pastel and mixed media. Info: 815-877-0118.

Wednesday, Jan. 18

The Artists of L’Atelier – Beloit Fine Arts Incubator, 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. Featuring six local artists, thru Jan. 27. Hours: Mon.-Fri.,10 a.m.-2 p.m. or by appointment. Info: 608-313-9083.

Earth’s Canvas – Monroe Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Group artist exhibit, thru Feb. 17. Paintings, sculptures, natural materials. Info: 608-325-5700 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

NIU School of Art Faculty Exhibition – NIU Art Museum, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thru Feb. 25. Info: 815-753-1936.

The New Art Examiner, “Chicago’s Independent Voice of the Visual Arts,” 1973-2002 – NIU Art Museum, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thru March 10. Info: 815-753-1936.

Thursday, Jan. 19

Viva Vegas – The Fireside Theatre, Fort Atkinson, Wis. Info: 800-477-9505 or www.firesidetheatre.com.

The Artists of L’Atelier – Beloit Fine Arts Incubator, 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. Featuring six local artists, thru Jan. 27. Hours: Mon.-Fri.,10 a.m.-2 p.m. or by appointment. Info: 608-313-9083.

Earth’s Canvas – Monroe Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Group artist exhibit, thru Feb. 17. Paintings, sculptures, natural materials. Info: 608-325-5700 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

Friday, Jan. 20

The Artists of L’Atelier – Beloit Fine Arts Incubator, 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. Featuring six local artists, thru Jan. 27. Hours: Mon.-Fri.,10 a.m.-2 p.m. or by appointment. Info: 608-313-9083.

Earth’s Canvas – Monroe Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Group artist exhibit, thru Feb. 17. Paintings, sculptures, natural materials. Info: 608-325-5700 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

Folded Copper – Bliss Beads Studio & Gallery, 161 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb, Ill. Exhibit by Steve Mitchell made up of large-scale copper triptychs, thru Feb. 4. Regular hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Info: 815-517-0164.

Realism or Not – Womanspace, Gallery 1, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Opening reception, 5:30-8 p.m. Featuring works in oil, acrylic, watercolor, glass beadwork, pastel & mixed media. Info: 815-877-0118.

Saturday, Jan. 21

The Wizard of Oz – Belvidere High School, 1500 E. Avenue Blvd., Belvidere. 2 p.m. Presented by Christian Art Student Theater. Tickets: $8 advance, $10 at the door. Info: 815-790-1488.

The Artists of L’Atelier – Beloit Fine Arts Incubator, 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. Featuring six local artists, thru Jan. 27. Hours: Mon.-Fri.,10 a.m.-2 p.m. or by appointment. Info: 608-313-9083.

Sunday, Jan. 22

The Wizard of Oz – Belvidere High School, 1500 E. Avenue Blvd., Belvidere. 2 p.m. Presented by Christian Art Student Theater. Tickets: $8 advance, $10 at the door. Info: 815-790-1488.

Earth’s Canvas – Monroe Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Group artist exhibit, thru Feb. 17. Paintings, sculptures, natural materials. Info: 608-325-5700 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

Monday, Jan. 23

The Artists of L’Atelier – Beloit Fine Arts Incubator, 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. Featuring six local artists, thru Jan. 27. Hours: Mon.-Fri.,10 a.m.-2 p.m. or by appointment. Info: 608-313-9083.

Earth’s Canvas – Monroe Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Group artist exhibit, thru Feb. 17. Paintings, sculptures, natural materials. Info: 608-325-5700 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

Realism or Not – Womanspace, Gallery 1, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Opening reception, 5:30-8 p.m. Featuring works in oil, acrylic, watercolor, glass beadwork, pastel & mixed media. Info: 815-877-0118.

Tuesday, Jan. 24

The Artists of L’Atelier – Beloit Fine Arts Incubator, 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. Featuring six local artists, thru Jan. 27. Hours: Mon.-Fri.,10 a.m.-2 p.m. or by appointment. Info: 608-313-9083.

Earth’s Canvas – Monroe Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Group artist exhibit, thru Feb. 17. Paintings, sculptures, natural materials. Info: 608-325-5700 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

Realism or Not – Womanspace, Gallery 1, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Opening reception, 5:30-8 p.m. Featuring works in oil, acrylic, watercolor, glass beadwork, pastel & mixed media. Info: 815-877-0118.

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 Jan. 18-24, 2012, issue

Rockford Public Library Hours – Main Library open Tues.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; East Branch open Mon.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Rock River and Montague branches open Tues.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Rockton Centre Branch open Mon.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Lewis Lemon Branch open Mon.-Fri., 2-6 p.m. All library locations closed Sundays.

Burpee Museum of Natural History – 737 N. Main St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Exhibiting thru April 29, 2012: “Ice Age Mammals.” Admission: $8 adults, $7 children 3-17, free for children younger than 3 and members; additional fee for traveling exhibits. Info: 815-965-3433.

Discovery Center Museum – 711 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $7 adults, $7 children. Info: 815-963-6769.

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

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden – 2715 S. Main St. Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Sundays and Mondays until April. Admission $6 adults, $3 seniors & students, children younger than 3 and Klehm members, free. Donation Day is now first Tuesday of each month. Admission free, donations of any amount welcome. Info: 815-965-8146.

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

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

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

Rockford Park District Indoor Adult Golf Clinics – Indoor Sports Center, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd. Mondays, 12:30-1:20 p.m. or 1:30-2:20 p.m. Taught by PGA members and apprentices. Thru March 14. Info: 815-987-8800.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stone Quarry Recreation Park – 6845 N. German Church Road, Byron. Mon.-Fri., 4-8 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., noon-8 p.m. Info: 815-234-8900.

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

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

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

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

Support for Retired Grievers – Zion Lutheran Church, 925 Fifth Ave. 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Every other Wed. Call for dates/info: 815-636-4750.

Overeaters Anonymous H.O.W.– Every Thursday at Byron Public Library, Route 2. 12-step study group – 5:30-6 p.m. Regular group meets 6-7:30 p.m. Info: 815-734-4662.

Rockford Public Library Used Book Shop – Rockford Public Library, 215 N. Wyman St. Mon.-Wed., noon-8 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Info: 815-965-7606.

Ken-Rock Community Center – 3218 11th St. Various activities throughout the year. Info: 815-398-8864.

Womanspace – 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Yoga every Thursday, 9:30-10:45 a.m. $40/four classes or $12/class. Basic Hatha Yoga. Other activities throughout the year. Info: 815-877-0118.

Beckman Mill Park – 11600 S. County Road H, off Highway 81. Tours 1-4 p.m. Corn grinding demonstrations, see the blacksmith shop, creamery & visitor center. Info: 608-751-1551.

Heritage Farm Museum – 8059 N. River Road, Byron. Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 217.

Poplar Grove Vintage Wings and Wheels Museum – 5151 Orth Road, Poplar Grove. Open weekdays 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Info: 815-547-3115.

Rock River Valley Blood Center – 419 N. Sixth St. Mon.-Thurs., 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Fri., 6:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Info: 815-965-8751 or 866-889-9037.

Kishwaukee Valley A.B.A.T.E. Meeting – V.F.W., 2018 Windsor Road, Loves Park. Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. Info: 815-544-3088.

Open Doors – Court Street United Methodist Church Chapel, 215 N. Court St. 12:30-1 p.m. Every Wed. Enter north end. Info: 815-962-6061.

Historic Auto Attractions – 13825 Metric Drive, Roscoe. Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Info: 815-389-9999.

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

Byron Museum of History – 106 N. Union St., Byron. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-234-5031.

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

Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off – Rock River Water Reclamation District, 3333 Kishwaukee St. Sat., 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., noon-4 p.m.

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

Rockton Township Historical Society Museum – Corner of Blackhawk Boulevard & Green Street, Rockton. Open for tours every Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-624-4830.

Singles 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. Info: 815-632-9880 or 815-563-4309 or 815-275-7179.

Having Trouble Hearing on the Phone? – Center for Sight & Hearing, 8038 Macintosh Lane. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri. Free amplified phone program. Must be Illinois resident and have standard phone service. Application/info: 815-332-6800.

Winnebago County Health Dept. Flu Vaccine Available – For flu clinic schedule, call 815-720-4264 or go to www.wchd.org.

Stretch & Belly Dance Combo Beginners’ Class – Club Round, 7120 Windsor Lake Parkway. 7:30-9 p.m. Classes every Mon., Wed. & Fri. Registration/info: 815-639-0312.

Adventure Club – Jarrett Center, Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road, Byron. 9-11 a.m. or 1-3 p.m. Ages 3-6. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Intermediate Writing/Publishing Class – Meets every Mon. Call for information. Info: 224-343-0384.

Introduction to Card-Making/Stamping – Meets every Thurs. Call for information. Info: 224-343-0384.

Toddler Time – Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 2001 N. Alpine Road. 9:15-10:15 a.m. Every Mon. and Tues. Free. Info: 815-399-3171.

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.

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

Yoga Classes – Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 Third Ave., Rockford. Mondays, 6-7:15 p.m., six weeks consecutive, $45 or single classes, $10 each. Register/Info: 815-963-4815.

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

Lazy Dog Yoga Studio – 5428 Williams Drive, Roscoe. $10 per drop-in class or 6 classes for $50. Chair Yoga every Friday at noon, Kundalini Yoga every Saturday at 9 a.m. Info: 970-485-0249.

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.

Nominations sought for NLI George & Barbara Fell Award – Individuals with outstanding achievements in land conservation. Submit to Natural Land Institute, 815-964-6666 or www.NaturalLand.org. Deadline: Jan. 27.

Reservations for Potato Dinner at Abreo – 515 E. State St. Date: Jan. 24, 5-9 p.m. Cost: $40/person (excluding tax & gratuity). Seating is limited. RSVP: 815-968-9463.

Reservations for Garlic Dinner at Abreo – 515 E. State St. Date: Feb. 7, 5-9 p.m. Cost: $40/person (excluding tax & gratuity). Seating is limited. RSVP: 815-968-9463.

Registration for Owl Prowl – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Thursday, Jan. 26, 7 p.m. Take a night hike; meet at Jarrett Center. $2/person. Register by Jan. 25. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for Ice Fishing – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Dates: Jan. 22 and 29. Meet at Jarrett Center at 7a.m., fish till 10 a.m. $5. For all ages, under 5 is free. Register by Jan. 20 or 27. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for Art Workshop – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Sunday, Jan. 29. 12-4 p.m. For ages 6 and older. $10 /person. Meet at Keller Center. Register by Jan. 25. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University – Valley Evangelical Covenant Church, 103 S. Maple St. (Rt. 72 & Maple St.), Stillman Valley. Program starts Feb. 13 with 45-minute preview of program Sun., Jan. 29 at 12:30 p.m. Info: 815-645-8872.

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

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

Wednesday, Jan. 18

Free Admission at Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens – 1354 N. Second St., Rockford. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Highlights: “Herbal Teas & Your Health” – 5-6 p.m. Shop at Garden Gate Gifts. Info: 815-987-8898.

“Living with Alzheimer’s” program – Alzheimer’s Association, 1111 S. Alpine Road, Suite 307. Dates: Jan. 18-Feb. 1, 1-3 p.m. Info: 815-484-1300.

SHIP Services for Seniors – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, Volunteer Services office, 5666 E. State St. 9-11 a.m. With SHIP (Senior Health Insurance Program) volunteers. Appointments required by calling 815-395-5064.

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

Blackhawk Woodcarvers Meeting – Ken-Rock Community Center, 3218 11th St. 9-10 a.m. Open Carving, 8:30-11 a.m. Info: 815-393-4581.

Trip to Cave of the Mounds – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Meet at Jarrett Center at 10 a.m. Cost: $15/person, $25/couple. All ages welcome. Cave admission not included. Register by Jan. 12 at 815-234-8535, ext. 200

Babes and Books – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 11:15 a.m.-noon. Children younger than 2. Develop baby’s literacy & social skills through rhymes, stories, songs. Info: 815-965-7606.

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.

Prezi – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, second-floor computer room, 215 N. Wyman St. 6-8 pm. Ages 13 and older. Must be familiar with click and drag, copy and paste and PowerPoint software. Registration is not required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Bundle Up! – Rockford Public Library, Montague Branch, Connie Lane Room, 1238 S. Winnebago St. 5-6 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

Diabetes Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Francis Room, 5666 E. State St. 6:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-395-5159.

Sticky Note Creation Competition – Rockford Public Library, Main Library YA Zone, 215 N. Wyman St. 5-8 p.m. Ages 13-19. Build a video game character out of sticky notes. Info: 815-965-7606.

Weight Loss Orientation – OSF Saint Anthony Center for Health, rotates among three OSF locations. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. every Wed. Info: 815-395-4505.

Will You Ever Be Able to Retire? – North Suburban Library, 6340 N. Second St., Loves Park. 6:30-8 p.m. Rockford Retirement Resource Center presents the “Not Yet Wealthy” free “Money Workshop” that reveals secrets that banks, credit card companies and the IRS aren’t telling you and are afraid to find out. Reservation is required. Info: 800-756-6607.

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

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.

YA Gaming Tournament – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, YA Zone, 215 N. Wyman St. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Ages 13-19. Test lyour gaming skills in various PS3 and Wii games. Info: 815-965-7606.

Beloit International Film Festival Sneak Peek Event – Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Spring Creek Road. 5:30-7:30 p.m. See trailers for some of the top films for this year’s festival. Open to public. Free.

Holistic Moms Network Meeting & Potluck – JustGoods, 201 Seventh St. 7 p.m. Meet new members, bring a dish to share. Info: 815-601-5564.

Book Discussion: Marching to the Mountaintop – Beloit College, Pearson Hall, Moore Lounge, 700 College St., Beloit, Wis. 7 p.m. Book by Ann Bausum tells the story of the Memphis sanitation workers’ strike and its impact on the final days of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s life. Free. Info: 608-363-2849.

Comedy Night – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. Info: 815-877-8007.

Thursday, Jan. 19

Breast Cancer Risk Reduction Class – OSF Saint Anthony Center for Cancer Care, 5666 E. State St. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Class size is limited; registration is required. Info: 815-227-2618.

Katie’s Choice Book Club – Katie’s Cup, 502 Seventh St. 10 a.m. Book: The Power of One by Bruce Courtenay. Info: 815-962-4279.

Joy for Everyday Living Luncheon – Giovanni’s Restaurant, 610 N. Bell School Road. Noon-1:30 p.m. With Kelly Epperson, author, humorist, happiness coach. Creative Memories consultant Missie Pierson will present her story, “Questions.” Child care by reservation, door prizes. Info: 815-222-3015 or rcwcreservations@aol.com.

Look, Listen and Learn Storytime – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, 6685 E. State St. 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Ages 3-6 Info: 815-965-7606.

Bilingual Thursdays Storytime (Spanish/English) – Rockford Public Library, Rock River Branch, Program Room, 3128 11th St. 4-4:45 p.m. Ages 3-8. Info: 815-965-7606.

“Lincoln, the Indispensable Man” – Rockford College, Fisher Memorial Chapel, 5050 E. State St. 4 p.m. Program by scholar and Abraham Lincoln biographer, Dr. Michael Burlingame. Part of the college’s Forum Series. Free, but tickets required. Info: 815-226-4100.

Teen ‘Scape – Rockford Public Library, Montague Branch, 1238 S. Winnebago St. 4-7 p.m. Ages 10-19. Play games on Wii or Playstation, surf the Internet, play board games. Info: 815-965-7606.

Sunset Storytime – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 6:30-7:15 p.m. Ages 4-10. Info: 815-965-7606.

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.

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.

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

Swing Dancing – St. Edward Church, 3004 11th St. 8-10:30 p.m. Every Thurs. Info: 815-914-7441.

Preschool Picnic Storytime – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 12-12:45 p.m. Ages 3-6. Bring a lunch. 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.

Support for Grief After Suicide – Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 4700 Augustana Drive. 7 p.m. Free. Every other Thurs. Call for schedule/info: 815-399-0202.

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

Unplugged Gamers Night – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, Young Adult Zone, 215 N. Wyman St. 5-7 p.m. Ages 13-19. Board games, Yu-Gi-Oh! trading card or classic card games. Info: 815-965-7606.

Learn Self-Hypnosis for Wellness – enTrance Center, 5844 Elaine Drive, Rockford. 6:30-8 p.m. $25. Call in advance: 815-397-5901.

Unplugged Gamers Night – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, Young Adult Zone, 215 N. Wyman St. 5-7 p.m. Ages 13-19. 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, Jan. 20

Occupy the Courts Rally – Stanley J. Roszkowski U.S. Courthouse, 211 S. Court St. 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Occupy Rockford and other community groups will rally in opposition to the 2010 Supreme Court Citizens United vs. the Federal Elections Committee ruling that affirmed corporations are people and money is speech. This ruling allowed corporations to donate unlimited sums of money to election activities, much of it anonymously.

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

Girlz Talk – Rockford Public Library, Lewis Lemon Branch, 1988 W. Jefferson St. 4-5 p.m. Ages 9-13. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Diabetes Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Francis Room, 5666 E. State St. 6:30 p.m. open discussion. Free. Info: 815-395-5159.

Wellness for the Mind, Body & Spirit Lecture Series: Natural Health – Siena on Brendenwood, 4444 Brendenwood Road. 1:30 p.m. Ryan Hulsebus, D.C. Info: 815-399-6167.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Tues., Thurs. & Fridays during school year, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Extra Friday session, 8-10 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Hockey: Rockford IceHogs vs. Chicago Wolves – BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St. 7 p.m. VIP (formerly Glass Level]: $27; Lower Level Sidelines: $23; Lower Level Endzone: $20’ Upper Level Sideline: $17; Upper Level Endzone; $14, Terrace Level: $8. Info: 815-968-5222.

Saturday, Jan. 21

Boy Scout 24 Hour Fire & Food Drive – Highway 251 & Hononegah Road, Roscoe. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Donations of non-perishable food, paper products and hygiene products for Rockton Food Pantry. Monetary donations also accepted. Boy Scouts of Troop 622 will keep the fire going and offer coffee and hot chocolate. Also accepting old American flags for retirement ceremony at 4 p.m.

Rockford Public Schools Gifted Testing – Washington Gifted Academy, 1421 West St. 9 a.m.-noon for kindergarten. 12:30-3:30 p.m. for grades 1-4. Info: 815-966-3182.

Accounting Basics for the Small Business – EIGERlab, 605 Fulton Ave. 9:30 a.m.-noon. Presented by SCORE, facilitated by Dave Rumple of Rumple’s Tax and Consulting Services. Free. Info: ww.northernillinoisscore.org/workshop-accounting-tips-practices.html.

Monster Rats of the Ice Age — Giant Rodents – Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St. 1-2:30 p.m. $18 per child members, $20 per child non-members. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-3433.

Winter Bird Hike – Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road. 8-10:30 a.m. Meet at the Nature Center. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. Info: 815-335-2915.

Keith Country Day School Information Fair – Keith Country Day School, 1 Jacoby Place. 10 a.m.-noon. Info: Keithschool.com.

Get Moving: Playing with Food – Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St. Noon-3 p.m. With Winnebago County Health Department, Univ. of Ill. Extension Office, Univ. of Ill. College of Medicine. Bean Sprouts–Hip and Health Kids Cafe will host a cooking class for kids age 5 and older, 2-2:30 p.m. and 2:30-3 p.m. Included with Museum admission: $7 adults, $7 children ages 2-17. Info: 815-963-6769.

Senior Drop-In Computer Lab – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 2-4 p.m. Ages 55 and older. For beginners who know how to use a mouse and keyboard. Info: 815-965-7606.

Free YMCA Weekend – I.D. Pennock Branch, 200 Y Blvd., Rockford, and Northeast Branch, 8451 Orth Road, Loves Park. Open to the public with activities, games, tours, classes for all family members. No joiner fee. Info: 815-489-1253 (Pennock] or 815-489-3352 [Northeast].

Black Cinema Discussion Series: Their Eyes Were Watching God – Rockford Public Library, Montague Branch, Connie Lane Room, 1238 S. Winnebago St. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Ages 18 and older. Info: 815-965-7606.

Train for “A Game of Shadows” – Gallowglass Academy, Inc., River Valley Complex, 605 S. Main St., Leaf River, Ill.

DigiScan – Rockford Public Library, East Branch Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Bring your own laptop, external hard digitally. Future classes will teach drive or USB drive. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

GED Fair – Rockford Career College, 1130 S. Alpine Road. 1-7 p.m. Sponsored by The Workforce Connection. Info: www.rockfordgedfair.org.

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

Snowshoeing (with instruction) – Seth B. Atwood Park. Youth must be accompanied by an adult during the program. Pre-registration requested. Info: 815-874-7576.

Green Drinks Series Kick-off – Cliffbreakers, 700 W. Riverside Blvd. 5:30 p.m. Steve Ernst, exec. director of Rockford Metropolitan Area Planning, presents a report about Rockford area’s Sustainability Planning process. $10 wine & hors d’oeuvres, $4 green “Nibble of the Month.” Info: greendrinks.org.

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

Family Skate – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road, Loves Park. 8 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Adult Grief Support Group – Beloit Regional Hospice Office, 655 Third St., Suite 200, Beloit, Wis. 6-7:30 p.m. Info: 608-363-7421.

Kundalini Yoga – Lazy Dog Yoga Studio, 5428 Williams Drive, Roscoe. 7:30 a.m. Info: 970-485-0249.

Public Skating – Riverview Ice House, 324 N. Madison St. Info: 815-963-7465.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Info: 815-969-4069.

Sunday, Jan. 22

Frosty and Friends Ice Skating – Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Road. 2-4 p.m. Learn to Skate lessons, music by a live DJ, prize drawings. Admission includes skate rental, $5; free for ages 2 and younger. Info: 815-987-8800.

Hockey: Rockford IceHogs vs. Milwaukee Admirals – BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St. 5 p.m. VIP (formerly Glass Level]: $27; Lower Level Sidelines: $23; Lower Level Endzone: $20’ Upper Level Sideline: $17; Upper Level Endzone; $14, Terrace Level: $8. Info: 815-968-5222.

Monday, Jan. 23

Word 2010 in a Day – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. Noon-6 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Prerequisite: Must have used MS Word in the past and have good mouse skills. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Kids Club – Rockford Public Library, Lewis Lemon Branch, 1988 W. Jefferson St. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Ages 6-12. Info: 815-965-7606.

Discovering Wilderness: An Adventure Guide in Quetico Provincial Park – JustGoods, 201 Seventh St. 7 p.m. Guest Jane McMillan, wilderness guide, will speak to Blackhawk Chapter Sierra Club about her experiences backpacking and canoe trips on the Minnesota-Ontario border. Free, open to the public.

Infant/Toddler CPR – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Anthony and St. Joseph rooms, 5666 E. State St. 7-9 p.m. Cost: $12.50/person or free to those who attend “Baby 101” or Baby Express. Info: 815-227-2695.

90th State House District Debate – Stillman Valley High School, Stillman Valley. 7 p.m. Sponsored by Ogle County Young Republicans. Free.

Tuesday, Jan. 24

Potato Dinner – Abreo, 515 E. State St. 5-9 p.m. Cost: $40/person (excluding tax & gratuity). Seating is limited. RSVP: 815-96-9463.

RU Ready to be an Entrepreneur? – Cherry Valley Public Library District, 755 E. State St., Cherry Valley. PowerPoint presentation by Vernon Wanner of SCORE to help you start a business. 6:30 p.m. Info: 815-332-5161.

“Baby 101” – OSF Saint Anthony Center for Life, Foundation Room, 5556 E. State St. 7 p.m. Info: 815-227-2695.

Fourth Tuesday Book Discussion: The Greater Journey: Americans in Paris – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, Classroom C, 215 N. Wyman St. 6:30-7:45 p.m. Ages 18 and older. Info: 815-965-7606.

Stories by the Fire – Rockford Public Library, Rock River Branch, 3128 11th St. 6:30-7:30 p.m. All ages. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

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

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

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 Jan. 18-24, 2012, issue

Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center 2012-2013 Concert Season – Subscription packages or single tickets available. Next concerts: Avalon String Quartet Concert Program 3 - “Sturm and Drang,” Date: Friday, Jan. 27. 7 p.m. $10/adults, $5/students. Debussy, le magnifique. Date: Friday, March 2, 7:30 p.m. with pre-concert lecture by Michael Beert. Admission: $25 adults, $5 students; groups of 10 or more receive $5 off per ticket. Info: www.mendelssohnpac.org.

Rockford Symphony Orchestra Patrons: Single tickets are now on sale forComEd Classics Series. Next concert: Valentine Bon-bons. Date: Saturday, Feb. 11. Coronado Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m. Info: www.rockfordsymphony.com, or call 815-965-0049 or visit the Box Office at Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St.

MAC Radio Live-2012 Showcase of Talent – Monroe High School Performing Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Dates: Jan. 27, 28. 7:30 p.m. General admission: $10 adults, $5 students (18 and younger), tickets available at box office. Info for tickets or audition forms: 608-325-5700, 888-596-1249 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

Wednesday, Jan. 18

Brother K Band – Adriatic Café, 327 W. Jefferson St. 7:30 p.m. $3. Info: 815-967-9939.

True Flight w/Mo Bizzy & D Trigga – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 7 p.m. Info: 815-787-9547.

Vinyl Voodoo – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 10:30 p.m. Free. Every Wed. Info: 815-962-7944.

Karaoke with Mike – Rusty Nail, 1804 Eighth Ave. 7:30 p.m.-midnight. Every Wed. Free. Info: 815-397-2510.

Open Stage w/Jim Grass – Hope and Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. Info: 815-633-2552.

Thursday, Jan. 19

Winnie Page and the Dirt Band w/Trip Effect, qwandry – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 8 p.m. Info: 815-787-9547.

Open Mic – The Grove, 100 E. Grove St. 6 p.m. Free. Info: 815-765-1002.

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

Bike Night, DJ & Karaoke – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. Info: 815-877-8007.

Open Stage – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Free. Every Thurs. Info: 815-962-7944.

Open Mic – Cronie’s Grill, 9032 N. Second St., Machesney Park. Every Thurs.

Friday, Jan. 20

“Listening Room Fridays” – JustGoods, 201 Seventh St. 7 p.m. Weekly venue for composers, acoustic and classical performers, band players. This week: David Stocker with Hope & Kristiana. CD Release party. Free-will donations. Info: http//justgoods.info/ or 815-965-8903.

Charles Walker Band – Adriatic Café, 327 W. Jefferson St. 9:30 p.m. $5. Info: 815-967-9939.

Skinny Lombard – Bar 3, 326 E. State St. 9:30 p.m. $5. Info: 815-968-9061.

Stampede – Big Al’s Bar, 610 N. Bell School Road. 8:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-398-6411.

Mark Reed & Waddy– Café Belwah, 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, Wis. 6-10 p.m. Free. Info: 608-363-1110.

The Danny Boyz – Hope and Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park. 7 p.m. Free. Info: 815-633-2552.

Venice Gashouse Trolley w/Pete Jive, Machine Gun Moses, Tyler Krienitz, Jack Mack and the Last Stand – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hemnly wy., DeKalb. 8 p.m. Info: 815-787-9547.

David Hayes w/Thomas Turner – Kryptonite Bar, 308 W. State St. 9 p.m. $5. Info: 815-965-0931.

The Funk Attack feat. Harlan Jefferson & Hosie Baskin – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-962-7944.

Legend Haz It w/Train Company, Pinto and the Bean – Otto’s Niteclub & Underground, 118 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 9 p.m. $7. Info: 815-758-2715.

The Sensations featuring Holland Zander – Shooter’s Bar & Grill East, 7171 Cherryvale Blvd., Cherry Valley. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-332-5229.

Karaoke – The Filling Station, 6259 11th St. Info: 815-874-5766.

Karaoke – The Grove, 100 E. Grove St., Poplar Grove. 9 p.m. Info: 815-765-1002.

Karaoke – Scanlan’s, 2921 City View Drive. 9 p.m. Info: 815-639-0000.

DJ – Backstop Bar & Grill, 1830 Union Ave., Belvidere. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-547-8100.

DJ – Oscar’s Pub & Grill, 5980 E. State St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-399-6100.

DJ – Manor Nightclub, 293 Executive Pkwy. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-394-0077.

DJ – Brewsky’s, 4414 Charles St. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-399-9300.

DJ – RBI’s, 3870 N. Perryville Road. 9 p.m. Info: 815-877-5592.

DJ – Tad’s, 10 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Info: 815-654-3500.

DJ – The Office Niteclub, 513 E. State St. 9 p.m. Info: 815-965-0344.

DJ Mark & Lana – FIBS, 105 W. Main St., Rockton. 9:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-624-6018.

DJ/Karaoke – Jayne’s Place, 2229 Anderson Drive, Belvidere. Info: 815-544-5153.

DJ/Karaoke – Red’s Neighborhood Tavern, 129 N. State St., Belvidere. Info: 815-544-6677.

Saturday, Jan. 21

April Verch Band – Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 415 N. Church St. 7:30 p.m. Canadian fiddler, singer, songwriter & stepdancer. $18 advance/$20 door. Info: 815-964-2238 or 815-543-7627.

Allegro II: The Beloit Janesville Symphony: “A Brief History of Horn” featuring the BJSO Horn Quartet– Eaton Chapel, 700 College St., Beloit, Wis. 7:30 p.m. Led by John Wunderlin, with some of the most beautiful chamber works. Tickets: $15 adults, $5 students with valid student ID. Adults with season subscription, $10. Info: 608-313-1200, at the door, or www.BeloitJanesvilleSymphony.org.

Rockford Symphony Orchestra/Rock Valley College Concerto Competition – Rock Valley College Education Resource Center, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Competition for young musicians ages 13-21 who live within a 50-mile radius of Rockford. Info: RSO offices, 711 N. Main St. By appointments. Info: 815-965-0049 or www.rockfordsymphony.com/rsyo/concerto.asp.

Whalebone – Adriatic Café, 327 W. Jefferson St. 9:30 p.m. $3. Info: 815-967-9939.

Clement Family Benefit w/Patchwork, 99 Proof Devils, Lost Thoughts and By Tomorrow’s End & Matt Roberts of Cylinder 6 and Chad Foster of Beyond Threshold. Also: Chili cookoff, raffles, silent auctions – Bar 3, 326 E. State St. 7 p.m. $5. Info: 815-968-9061.

Jin and Tonic – Big Al’s Bar, 610 N. Bell School Road. 8:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-398-6411.

Pentatonics & Southern Charm – The Grove, 100 E. Grove St., Poplar Grove. 9 p.m. Info: 815-765-1002.

Karaoke/Ma & Pa Kittle – Grant Park Tavern, 3015 Kishwaukee St. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. Info: 815-397-9819.

Aunt Janet Band – Hope and Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-633-2552.

The Island of the Misfit Toys w/Dastardly, Foreign Giants, Oh, Alchemy, & Jeff Goldsmith – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 8 p.m.-2 a.m. $7. Info: 815-787-9547.

Scratch Track w/Illphonics – Kryptonite Bar, 308 W. State St. 9 p.m. $5. Info: 815-965-0931.

Minotaur – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-962-7944.

Shine Box – Otto’s Niteclub & Underground, 118 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 9 p.m. $7. Info: 815-758-2715.

The Sensations featuring Holland Zander – Rascal’s Bar & Grill, 5223 Torque Road, Loves Park. 9 p.m. $3. Info: 815-636-9207.

XJ7 – Shooter’s Bar & Grill East, 7171 Cherryvale Blvd., Cherry Valley. 9 p.m. Info: 815-332-5229.

ROSCOE – Splitters Bar & Grill, 5318 N. Second St., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Info: 815-877-6051.

DJ/Karaoke – Red’s Neighborhood Tavern, 129 N. State St., Belvidere. Info: 815-544-6677.

DJ Mark & Lana – FIBS, 105 W. Main St., Rockton. 9:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-624-6018.

DJ – Tad’s, 10 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Info: 815-654-3500.

Sunday, Jan. 22

Gina Venier, Dave Tamkin, Mike Manigone – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 6 p.m. Info: 815-787-9547.

Open Mic – Take 20, 438 Bypass U.S. 20, Cherry Valley. 8 p.m. Info: 815-332-9920.

Karaoke with Bob – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Info: 815-877-8007.

Monday, Jan. 23

Bun E. Carlos & The Monday Night Band – Adriatic Café, 327 W. Jefferson St. 9:30 p.m. $5. Info: 815-967-9939.

Vinyl Voodoo – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 10:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-962-7944.

Open mic featured artist – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. Info: 815-787-9547.

Tuesday, Jan. 24

Open Stage – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-962-7944.

Karaoke – Kryptonite Music Lounge, 308 W. State St. Info: 815-965-0931.

Free Pool & Karaoke with Bob – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Info: 815-877-8007.

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 Jan. 18-24, 2012, issue

Rockford Art Museum – 711 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. Featuring: “The Chemistry of Color” thru April 22, 2012. Free for everyone every Tues. Info: 815-968-2787.

Artists’ Ensemble – Rockford College Cheek Theatre, 5050 E. State St. Info: 815-903-2277 or www.artistsensemble.org.

Kortman Gallery – 107 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Exhibiting now: “The Wright Inspiration: Art, Design, and the Laurent House.” Info: 815-968-0123.

David C. Olson Photography Studio – 7801 E. State St., inside Clock Tower Resort. Wildlife and nature imagery. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-noon, Saturday. Free. Info: 815-873-1777.

Beth Ann Weis Salon & Spa – 4108 Morsay Drive, Rockford. Hours: Tues. & Fri., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thurs., noon-9 p.m.; Sat., 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Sun., Mon., Wed. Info: 815-387-2700.

Funktional Arts – 412 N. First St. Furniture & sculpture. Info: 815-969-7942.

Rockford Dance Company – Riverfront Museum Park, 711 N. Main St. Coming Jan. 28: Hansel and Gretel. Info: 815-815-963-3341.

Village Gallery – Stewart Square. Artists’ co-op. 45 artists. Open Wed.-Fri., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-963-ARTS.

Bonzi Productions Theatre Group – Family theater, plays, musicals. Info: 815-394-8987.

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

Galena Artists’ Guild Gallery – 324 Spring St., Galena. Thurs.-Mon., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Info: 815-777-2870.

NIU Art Museum – Hall Case Galleries, 116 Altgeld Hall, DeKalb. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., noon-4 p.m. Exhibiting Jan. 10-Feb. 25: New to the Collection. Selection of artwork recently donated to NIU. Free. Info: 815-753-1936.

Rockford College Art Gallery – Clark Arts Center, 5050 E. State St. 3-6 p.m., Tues.-Fri. Info: 815-226-4105.

Womanspace – Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Mon.-Thurs., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Info: 815-877-0118.

Beloit Fine Arts Incubator – 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Other hours by appointment. Exhibiting now: The Artists of L’Atelier thru Jan. 27. Info: 608-313-9083.

Monroe Arts Center – 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Now exhibiting: Earth’s Canvas, group exhibit running thru Feb. 17. Info: 608-325-5700 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

ArtSpace West – 1426 N. Main St. Tues.-Fri., 3-8 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Info: 630-546-4727 or 815-988-1501.

Age Quake Theatre – Plays for and about those 55 and older performed in the greater Rockford area. Info: 815-398-8090.

Byron Civic Theatre – 850 N. Colfax, Byron. Info: 815-312-3000, 6-9 p.m., Mon.-Thurs. and 9 a.m.-noon, Sat.

Cholke Photography & Fine Art Gallery – 2211 E. State St. Fri., 7:30-10 p.m.; Sat., 4:30-10 p.m.; Sun., 2-5 p.m. Free. Info: 815-226-9398.

The Fireside Theatre – Fort Atkinson, Wis. Coming Jan. 19: Viva Vegas. Info: 800-477-9505 or www.firesidetheatre.com.

Found It! Gallery – 107 Monroe St., Genoa. After school arts & crafts from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Tues.-Fri. for kids ages 3-14. Cost: $3 if you sign up at least the day before, $5 drop-in, $10 for all four days. Info: 815-601-2375.

Freeport Art Museum –121 N. Harlem Ave., Freeport. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., noon-5 p.m. Exhibiting now: 8th Annual Juried Exhibition, thru Feb. 3, 2012. Info: 815-235-9755.

DeKalb Area Women’s Center – 1021 State St., DeKalb. Fridays 7-9 p.m. Info: 815-758-1351.

Tom Littrell Design & Art Studio – 317 Market St., Rockford. Info: 815-519-5288.

Pec Playhouse Theatre – 314 Main St., Pecatonica.Info: 815-239-1210.

Timber Lake Playhouse – 8215 Black Oak Road, Mt. Carroll. Info: 815-244-2035.

Ingrid Dohm Studio Gallery – 839 N. Perryville Road. Appointments/Info: 815-519-6492.

Midtown Marketplace – 203 Seventh St. Info: 815-961-1269.

The Gallery At JustGoods – 201 Seventh St. Currently seeking local artist to present works in the Community/Art room. Info: 815-965-8903.

Charlotte Hackin Art Studio & Gallery – 6278 Brynwood Drive. Info: 815-639-1318.

Bliss Beads Studio & Gallery – 161 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb, Ill. Weekly classes in bead jewelry making, silversmithing and flamework glass. Now thru Feb. 4: Folded Copper. Regular hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Info: 815-517-0164.

Woodstock Musical Theatre Company – Woodstock Opera House,121 VanBuren St., Woodstock. Info: 815-338-5300.

Northwestern Illinois Theater Coalition – Opening February 2012: The Cheddar Curtain. Info: 815-281-0138.

Rock Valley College – Estelle M. Black Library, Educational Resource Building, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Now thru Feb. 20: Exhibit of early Chinese ceramics from the Neolithic period, Han, Tang, Song, Jin and Liao dynasties. Mon.-Thurs., 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fridays, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Womanspace, Gallery 1 – 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Opening Jan. 13, exhibit thru Feb. 23: “Realism or Not. Works by a group of artists in oil, acrylic, watercolor, glass, beadwork, pastel and mixed media. Opening reception Jan. 13, 5:30-8 p.m. Info: 815-877-0118.

Wednesday, Jan. 11

The Artists of L’Atelier – Beloit Fine Arts Incubator, 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. Featuring six local artists, thru Jan. 27. Hours: Mon.-Fri.,10 a.m.-2 p.m. or by appointment. Info: 608-313-9083.

Earth’s Canvas – Monroe Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Group artist exhibit, thru Feb. 17. Paintings, sculptures, natural materials. Info: 608-325-5700 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

NIU School of Art Faculty Exhibition – NIU Art Museum, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thru Feb. 25. Info: 815-753-1936.

The New Art Examiner, “Chicago’s Independent Voice of the Visual Arts,” 1973-2002 – NIU Art Museum, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thru March 10. Info: 815-753-1936.

Thursday, Jan. 12

The Artists of L’Atelier – Beloit Fine Arts Incubator, 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. Featuring six local artists, thru Jan. 27. Hours: Mon.-Fri.,10 a.m.-2 p.m. or by appointment. Info: 608-313-9083.

Earth’s Canvas – Monroe Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Group artist exhibit, thru Feb. 17. Paintings, sculptures, natural materials. Info: 608-325-5700 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

Friday, Jan. 13

The Artists of L’Atelier – Beloit Fine Arts Incubator, 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. Featuring six local artists, thru Jan. 27. Hours: Mon.-Fri.,10 a.m.-2 p.m. or by appointment. Info: 608-313-9083.

Earth’s Canvas – Monroe Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Group artist exhibit, thru Feb. 17. Paintings, sculptures, natural materials. Info: 608-325-5700 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

Folded Copper – Bliss Beads Studio & Gallery, 161 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb, Ill. Exhibit by Steve Mitchell made up of large-scale copper triptychs, thru Feb. 4. Regular hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Info: 815-517-0164.

Realism or Not – Womanspace, Gallery 1, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Opening reception, 5:30-8 p.m. Featuring works in oil, acrylic, watercolor, glass beadwork, pastel & mixed media. Info: 815-877-0118.

Saturday, Jan. 14

The Artists of L’Atelier – Beloit Fine Arts Incubator, 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. Featuring six local artists, thru Jan. 27. Hours: Mon.-Fri.,10 a.m.-2 p.m. or by appointment. Info: 608-313-9083.

Folded Copper – Bliss Beads Studio & Gallery, 161 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb, Ill. Exhibit by Steve Mitchell made up of large-scale copper triptychs, thru Feb. 4. Regular hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Info: 815-517-0164.

Sunday, Jan. 15

Earth’s Canvas – Monroe Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Group artist exhibit, thru Feb. 17. Paintings, sculptures, natural materials. Info: 608-325-5700 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

Monday, Jan. 16

The Artists of L’Atelier – Beloit Fine Arts Incubator, 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. Featuring six local artists, thru Jan. 27. Hours: Mon.-Fri.,10 a.m.-2 p.m. or by appointment. Info: 608-313-9083.

Folded Copper – Bliss Beads Studio & Gallery, 161 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb, Ill. Exhibit by Steve Mitchell made up of large-scale copper triptychs, thru Feb. 4. Regular hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Info: 815-517-0164.

Earth’s Canvas – Monroe Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Group artist exhibit, thru Feb. 17. Paintings, sculptures, natural materials. Info: 608-325-5700 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

Realism or Not – Womanspace, Gallery 1, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Opening reception, 5:30-8 p.m. Featuring works in oil, acrylic, watercolor, glass beadwork, pastel & mixed media. Info: 815-877-0118.

Tuesday, Jan. 17

The Artists of L’Atelier – Beloit Fine Arts Incubator, 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. Featuring six local artists, thru Jan. 27. Hours: Mon.-Fri.,10 a.m.-2 p.m. or by appointment. Info: 608-313-9083.

Folded Copper – Bliss Beads Studio & Gallery, 161 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb, Ill. Exhibit by Steve Mitchell made up of large-scale copper triptychs, thru Feb. 4. Regular hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Info: 815-517-0164.

Earth’s Canvas – Monroe Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Group artist exhibit, thru Feb. 17. Paintings, sculptures, natural materials. Info: 608-325-5700 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

New to the Collection – NIU Art Museum, Hall Case Galleries, 116 Altgeld Hall, DeKalb. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., noon-4 p.m. Exhibiting Jan. 10-Feb. 25. Selection of artwork recently donated to NIU. Free. Info: 815-753-1936.

Realism or Not – Womanspace, Gallery 1, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Opening reception, 5:30-8 p.m. Featuring works in oil, acrylic, watercolor, glass beadwork, pastel & mixed media. Info: 815-877-0118.

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 Jan. 11-17, 2012, issue

Rockford Public Library Hours – Main Library open Tues.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; East Branch open Mon.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Rock River and Montague branches open Tues.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Rockton Centre Branch open Mon.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Lewis Lemon Branch open Mon.-Fri., 2-6 p.m. All library locations closed Sundays.

Burpee Museum of Natural History – 737 N. Main St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Exhibiting thru April 29, 2012: “Ice Age Mammals.” Admission: $8 adults, $7 children 3-17, free for children younger than 3 and members; additional fee for traveling exhibits. Info: 815-965-3433.

Discovery Center Museum – 711 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $1/person for members; $10/person for public. Info: 815-963-6769.

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

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden – 2715 S. Main St. Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Sundays and Mondays until April. Admission $6 adults, $3 seniors & students, children younger than 3 and Klehm members, free. Info: 815-965-8146.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stone Quarry Recreation Park – 6845 N. German Church Road, Byron. Mon.-Fri., 4-8 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., noon-8 p.m. Info: 815-234-8900.

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

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

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

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

Support for Retired Grievers – Zion Lutheran Church, 925 Fifth Ave. 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Every other Wed. Call for dates/info: 815-636-4750.

Overeaters Anonymous H.O.W.– Every Thursday at Byron Public Library, Route 2. 12-step study group – 5:30-6 p.m. Regular group meets 6-7:30 p.m. Info: 815-734-4662.

Rockford Public Library Used Book Shop – Rockford Public Library, 215 N. Wyman St. Mon.-Wed., noon-8 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Info: 815-965-7606.

Ken-Rock Community Center – 3218 11th St. Various activities throughout the year. Info: 815-398-8864.

Womanspace – 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Yoga every Thursday, 9:30-10:45 a.m. $40/four classes or $12/class. Basic Hatha Yoga. Other activities throughout the year. Info: 815-877-0118.

Beckman Mill Park – 11600 S. County Road H, off Highway 81. Tours 1-4 p.m. Corn grinding demonstrations, see the blacksmith shop, creamery & visitor center. Info: 608-751-1551.

Heritage Farm Museum – 8059 N. River Road, Byron. Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 217.

Poplar Grove Vintage Wings and Wheels Museum – 5151 Orth Road, Poplar Grove. Open weekdays 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Info: 815-547-3115.

Rock River Valley Blood Center – 419 N. Sixth St. Mon.-Thurs., 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Fri., 6:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Info: 815-965-8751 or 866-889-9037.

Kishwaukee Valley A.B.A.T.E. Meeting – V.F.W., 2018 Windsor Road, Loves Park. Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. Info: 815-544-3088.

Open Doors – Court Street United Methodist Church Chapel, 215 N. Court St. 12:30-1 p.m. Every Wed. Enter north end. Info: 815-962-6061.

Historic Auto Attractions – 13825 Metric Drive, Roscoe. Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Info: 815-389-9999.

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

Byron Museum of History – 106 N. Union St., Byron. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-234-5031.

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

Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off – Rock River Water Reclamation District, 3333 Kishwaukee St. Sat., 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., noon-4 p.m.

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

Rockton Township Historical Society Museum – Corner of Blackhawk Boulevard & Green Street, Rockton. Open for tours every Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-624-4830.

Singles 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. Info: 815-632-9880 or 815-563-4309 or 815-275-7179.

Having Trouble Hearing on the Phone? – Center for Sight & Hearing, 8038 Macintosh Lane. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri. Free amplified phone program. Must be Illinois resident and have standard phone service. Application/info: 815-332-6800.

Winnebago County Health Dept. Flu Vaccine Available – For flu clinic schedule, call 815-720-4264 or go to www.wchd.org.

Stretch & Belly Dance Combo Beginners’ Class – Club Round, 7120 Windsor Lake Parkway. 7:30-9 p.m. Classes every Mon., Wed. & Fri. Registration/info: 815-639-0312.

Adventure Club – Jarrett Center, Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road, Byron. 9-11 a.m. or 1-3 p.m. Ages 3-6. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Intermediate Writing/Publishing Class – Meets every Mon. Call for information. Info: 224-343-0384.

Introduction to Card-Making/Stamping – Meets every Thurs. Call for information. Info: 224-343-0384.

Toddler Time – Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 2001 N. Alpine Road. 9:15-10:15 a.m. Every Mon. and Tues. Free. Info: 815-399-3171.

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

Yoga Classes – Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 Third Ave., Rockford. Mondays, 6-7:15 p.m., six weeks consecutive, $45 or single classes, $10 each. Register/Info: 815-963-4815.

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

Lazy Dog Yoga Studio – 5428 Williams Drive, Roscoe. $10 per drop-in class or 6 classes for $50. Chair Yoga every Friday at noon, Kundalini Yoga every Saturday at 9 a.m. Info: 970-485-0249.

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.

Nominations sought for NLI George & Barbara Fell Award – Individuals with outstanding achievements in land conservation. Submit to Natural Land Institute, 815-964-6666 or www.NaturalLand.org. Deadline: Jan. 27.

Registration for Schools Day Out – Welty Environmental Center at Beckman Mill County Park, 8606 W. County Road H, Beloit, Wis. Date: Jan. 16, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Ages 6-12. Cost: $14 per FWEC member, $20 nonmember. Register by Jan. 12. Info: 608-361-1377.

Registration for Trip to Cave of the Mounds – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Jan. 18. Meet at Jarrett Center at 10 a.m. Cost: $15/person, $25/couple. All ages welcome. Cave admission not included. Register by Jan. 12 at 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for “Living with Alz-heimer’s” program – Alzheimer’s Association, 1111 S. Alpine Road, Suite 307. Dates: Jan. 18-Feb. 1, 1-3 p.m. Info: 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 www.ymcastonebridgemarathon.org.

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

Wednesday, Jan. 11

Trip to Chicago Art Institute – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Meet at Jarrett Center 10 a.m.-7 p.m. All ages. Cost: $15 person, $25 couple. Museum admission not included. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Book Signing Event: Webbs Norman – Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. Second St. 5-7 p.m. Webbs Norman’s book, Building a Lasting Dream 1909 to 2009: A History of the Rockford Park District. Public is welcome; books can be purchased at Garden Gate Gifts for a $20 donation. Info: 815-987-8800 or www.rockfordparkdistrict.org.

Babes and Books – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 11:15 a.m.-noon. Children younger than 2. Develop baby’s literacy & social skills through rhymes, stories, songs. Info: 815-965-7606.

Partner Family Search for Habitat for Humanity – Salvation Army Building, 422 S. Main St., Belvidere. 5:30-7 p.m. Family must be able to perform at least 300 hours of sweat equity work on the home, be a Boone County resident for at least a year, and able to pay affordable monthly mortgage payments. Info: 815-288-6382.

H & R Block Blood Drive – 6373 E. State St. (in Forest Plaza next to Big Lots). 3-6 p.m. H & R Bl.ock offers any customer a free second-look review when they sign up to donate. First-time donors, bring a photo ID. Info/scheduling: 815-654-8848.

Breastfeeding Class – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Anthony and St. Joseph’s rooms, 5666 E. State St. 7-9 p.m. Fathers are welcome. Free. Register at: 815-227-2696.

Celebrate Aldo Leopold’s Birthday – Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road. 6:30-8:30 p.m. See the film Green Fire. Free. Info: 815-335-2915.

Diabetes Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Francis Room, 5666 E. State St. 6:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-395-5159.

Weight Loss Orientation – OSF Saint Anthony Center for Health, rotates among three OSF locations. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. every Wed. Info: 815-395-4505.

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

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.

Hockey: Rockford IceHogs vs. Houston Aeros – BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St. 6:35 p.m. VIP (formerly Glass Level]: $27; Lower Level Sidelines: $23; Lower Level Endzone: $20’ Upper Level Sideline: $17; Upper Level Endzone; $14, Terrace Level: $8. Info: 815-968-5222.

Comedy Night – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. Info: 815-877-8007.

Thursday, Jan. 12

Book Release: Webbs Norman Book – Building a Lasting Dream 1909 to 2009: A History of the Rockford Park District. Available at: Webbs Norman Center, 401 S. Main St., Rockford; Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Road, Loves Park; Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. Second St., Rockford.

Breast Cancer Risk Reduction Class – OSF Saint Anthony Center for Cancer Care, 5666 E. State St. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Class size is limited; registration is required. Info: 815-227-2618.

Diversity Business Luncheon – Cliffbreakers Resort & Conference Center, 700 W. Riverside Blvd. 11:30 a.m. Keynote speaker: Andrea Zopp, president of the Chicago Urban League. Cost: $35/person. Advance registration required at 815-218-3661 or online at www.rockfordkingday.com.

Invest in Yourself Luncheon – Giovanni‘s Restaurant, 610 N. Bell School Road.11:30 a.m. Keynote speaker: Lisa Berlage. Guest speaker: Kelly Epperson. Sponsored by Wipfli Hewins Investment Advisors, LLC. Register/Info: 888-520-3040.

Look, Listen and Learn Storytime – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, 6685 E. State St. 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Ages 3-6 Info: 815-965-7606.

Bundle Up! – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. Noon-12:45 p.m. All ages. 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.

Live Your Dream College Fair – Cliffbreakers Resort & Conference Center, 700 W. Riverside Blvd. 6-8 p.m. High school students and their parents invited to explore college and career opportunities. Free.

Sunset Storytime – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 6:30-7:15 p.m. Ages 4-10. Info: 815-965-7606.

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.

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

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

Swing Dancing – St. Edward Church, 3004 11th St. 8-10:30 p.m. Every Thurs. Info: 815-914-7441.

Preschool Picnic Storytime – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. Noon-12:45 p.m. Ages 3-6. Bring a lunch. 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.

Support for Grief After Suicide – Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 4700 Augustana Drive. 7 p.m. Free. Every other Thurs. Call for schedule/info: 815-399-0202.

Unplugged Gamers Night – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, Young Adult Zone, 215 N. Wyman St. 5-7 p.m. Ages 13-19. Board games, Yu-Gi-Oh! trading card or classic card games. Info: 815-965-7606.

Learn Self-Hypnosis for Wellness – enTrance Center, 5844 Elaine Drive, Rockford. 6:30-8 p.m. $25. Call in advance: 815-397-5901.

YA Anime/Manga Club – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Ages 13-19. 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, Jan. 13

Live Your Dream College Fair – Cliffbreakers Resort & Conference Center, 700 W. Riverside Blvd. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. High school students and their parents invited to explore college and career opportunities. Free.

SHIP Services for Seniors – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, Volunteer Services office, 5666 E. State St. 9-11 a.m. With SHIP (Senior Health Insurance Program) volunteers. Appointments required by calling 815-395-5064.

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

Diabetes Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Francis Room, 5666 E. State St. 6:30 p.m. open discussion. Free. Info: 815-395-5159.

Wellness for the Mind, Body & Spirit Lecture Series: Natural Health – Siena on Brendenwood, 4444 Brendenwood Road. 1:30 p.m. Ryan Hulsebus, D.C. Info: 815-399-6167.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Tues., Thurs. & Fridays during school year, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Extra Friday session, 8-10 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dinner – JT’s Bourbon St. Grille, 1407 N. Main St. 6 p.m. Commemorative dinner buffet honoring the civil rights leader, featuring some of his favorite foods. $10/ person or $6 RSVP. Info: 815-964-4400.

Cabin in the Woods Gathering – Severson Dells Nature Center: Rotary Forest Preserve. 6-7:30 p.m. Enjoy hot chocolate, look for owls and animal tracks. Reservations required. Info: 815-335-2915.

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

Saturday, Jan. 14

DigiScan – Rockford Public Library, East Branch Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Bring your own laptop, external hard digitally. Future classes will teach drive or USB drive. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

In Print Writers’ Meeting – Cherry Valley Public Library, 755 E. State St., Cherry Valley. 1-4 p.m. Info: 815-275-9226.

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

Pharmacy Technician School Class – Perryville Business Centers, 6957 Olde Creek Road. Suite 2300, Rockford. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Hosted by Rx Tech Prep. Info: www.rxtechprep.net or 888-560-5953.

Nature Rocks Family Nature Club: Winter Sports – Welty Environmental Center & Rock County Parks. Gibbs Lake County Park outside Evansville, Wis. 10-11:30 a.m. Cost: $10/family. Info: 608-361-1377.

Railroad Lecture – Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum, 411 Kent St. 2 p.m. Dr. Simon Cordery of Monmouth College will give the lecture.Tickets: $5 non-members, $2 members. Info: 815-964-2424.

Snowshoeing (with instruction) – Seth B. Atwood Park. Youth must be accompanied by an adult during the program. Pre-registration requested. Info: 815-874-7576.

Benefit for Diane McLain – Cliffbreakers Resort & Conference Center, 700 W. Riverside Blvd. 4 p.m., dinner at 6. Heartland Hospice volunteer Diane McLain is herself a cancer victim; benefit is booked up, but if you would like to donate, go to annieryan1979@gmail.com.

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

Paranormal Evening at the Roadhouse Restaurant – 807 S. Seventh St., Oregon, Ill. 7:30-9:30 p.m. Tour of the restaurant and history, presented by Mark Dorsett. Includes buffet dinner. $25/person. Info: 815-871-4239.

Family Skate – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road, Loves Park. 8 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Adult Grief Support Group – Beloit Regional Hospice Office, 655 Third St., Suite 200, Beloit, Wis. 6-7:30 p.m. Info: 608-363-7421.

Kundalini Yoga – Lazy Dog Yoga Studio, 5428 Williams Drive, Roscoe. 7:30 a.m. Info: 970-485-0249.

Public Skating – Riverview Ice House, 324 N. Madison St. Info: 815-963-7465.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Info: 815-969-4069.

Sunday, Jan. 15

Frosty and Friends Ice Skating – Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Road. 2-4 p.m. Learn to Skate lessons, music by a live DJ, prize drawings. Admission includes skate rental, $5; free for ages 2 and younger. Info: 815-987-8800.

Illinois Prairies 1815-1840 – Cherry Valley Public Library, 755 E. State St., Cherry Valley. 2 p.m. Speaker Norm Moline, Ph.D. from University of Chicago. Based on pioneers’ historical journals. Free. Register at 815-332-5161 or www.cherryvalley.lib.il.us.

An Evening of Remembrance – St. Paul Church of God in Christ, 1001 Wigton Ave. 6 p.m. Free.

Monday, Jan. 16

A Day of Celebration – West Middle School, 1900 N. Rockton Ave. 11 a.m. Speakers: Dr. Robert Head, president of Rockford College; Jeremy DeWeerdt, lead pastor of Rockford First; Gloria Cudia, community activist. Performance by high school and community choirs. Free.

Martin Luther King Jr. School’s Out Ice Skating Session – Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Road, Loves Park. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: $5 adult, ($5.50 non-resident) and $4 youth ($4.50 non-resident); skate rental available for $2. Info: 815-969-4069 or 815-987-8800.

MLK Monday at Discovery Center – 711 N. Main St. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. In the art studio, kids can make their own Martin Luther King Dream Viewer. Museum admission: $7 for children and adults; children 1 and younger are admitted free.

App Inventor for Android – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 1-3 p.m. Ages 13 and older. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Schools Day Out – Welty Environmental Center at Beckman Mill County Park, 8606 W. County Road H, Beloit, Wis. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Ages 6-12. Cost: $14 per FWEC member, $20 nonmember. Info: 608-361-1377.

Kids Club – Rockford Public Library, Lewis Lemon Branch, 1988 W. Jefferson St. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Ages 6-12. Info: 815-965-7606.

Infant/Toddler CPR – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Anthony and St. Joseph rooms, 5666 E. State St. 7-9 p.m. Cost: $12.50/person or free to those who attend “Baby 101” or Baby Express. Info: 815-227-2695.

Katie’s Choice Book Club – Katie’s Cup, 502 Seventh St. 7 p.m. Book: The Power of One by Bruce Courtenay. Info: 815-962-4279.

Hockey: Rockford IceHogs vs. Texas Stars – BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St. 1p.m. VIP (formerly Glass Level]: $27; Lower Level Sidelines: $23; Lower Level Endzone: $20’ Upper Level Sideline: $17; Upper Level Endzone; $14, Terrace Level: $8. Info: 815-968-5222.

Tuesday, Jan. 17

January Life Breakfast – Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road. 7:30-8:45 a.m. Hosted by The Howard Center for Family, Religion & Society and World Congress of Families. Speaker: Dr. Alveda C. King, niece of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Cost: $20 adults, $15 students, $200 table; $100 program sponsors. Info: 815-964-5819.

Free EKGs Screenings for High School Students – Heart Hospital at SwedishAmerican, 1400 Charles St. Appointments are scheduled every 15 minutes and begin at 5:30 p.m. Info: 815-968-4400, ext. 62894.

“First and Third” Open Art Studio – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 4-6 p.m. All ages. 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. Ages 18 and older. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

Turning 65 – Get the Facts – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Friends of RPL Community Room, 6685 E. State St. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Ages 50 and older. Social Security, original Medicare Parts A and B, Supplemental Insurance, Medicare Parts C and D. Info about eligibility, enrollment, benefits, resources. Registration is required. Info: 815-965-7606.

SwedishAmerican Caring Canines Program – SwedishAmerican Conference Center, 1401 E. State St. If you and your dog are registered with a therapy dog organization, consider attending a Temperament/Skills Assessment. Appointments available at 5, 6 and 7 p.m. Pre-registration is required. Info: 779-696-2166.

To the Beach! – Rockford Public Library, East Branch Children’s Area, 6685 E. State St. 6:30-7:15 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.

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

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 Jan. 11-17, 2012, issue

Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center 2012-2013 Concert Season – Subscription packages or single tickets available. Next concert: Debussy, le magnifique. Date: Friday, March 2, 7:30 p.m. with pre-concert lecture by Michael Beert. Admission: $25 adults, $5 students; groups of 10 or more receive $5 off per ticket. Info: www.mendelssohnpac.org.

Registration for Rock Valley Children’s Choir for Spring 2012 – Four choirs taking registration in January: Do Re Mi Singers (grades 1-3]; Music Makers Chorus (grades 4-8); Crescendo Choir (grades 6-8, auditions required); Encore (grades 9-12]. Info: 815-964-9713.

Rockford Symphony Orchestra Patrons: Single tickets are now on sale for ComEd Classics Series. Next concert: Tales from the Mideast. Date: Jan. 14. Coronado Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m. Info: www.rockfordsymphony.com, or call 815-965-0049 or visit the Box Office at Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St.

Allegro II: The Beloit Janesville Symphony Horn Quartet– Eaton Chapel, Beloit, Wis. Date: Jan. 21, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $15 general admission. Info: 608-313-1200 or www.BeloitJanesvilleSymphony.org.

MAC Radio Live — 2012 Showcase of Talent – Monroe High School Performing Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Dates: Jan. 27, 28. 7:30 p.m. General admission: $10 adults, $5 students (18 and younger), tickets available at box office. Info for tickets or audition forms: 608-325-5700, 888-596-1249 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

Wednesday, Jan. 11

Brother K Band – Adriatic Café, 327 W. Jefferson St. 7:30 p.m. $3. Info: 815-967-9939.

Flight of the Fire w/The City of Wight, Blackened Death, Murdering Grace, Exorcist – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 7 p.m. Info: 815-787-9547.

Vinyl Voodoo – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 10:30 p.m. Free. Every Wed. Info: 815-962-7944.

Karaoke with Mike – Rusty Nail, 1804 Eighth Ave. 7:30 p.m.-midnight. Every Wed. Free. Info: 815-397-2510.

Open Stage w/Jim Grass – Hope and Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. Info: 815-633-2552.

Thursday, Jan. 12

Registration for Rock Valley Children’s Choir [Crescendo Choir, Encore] – Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 415 N. Church St. Crescendo, 4-6 p.m. Encore, 5-7 p.m. Info: 815-964-9713.

Wooden Box Theater in The Second Annual “Beatles Night” at the House Café w/DJ Kyle Armour, BNTY HNTR, Fight with Monsters, Becca Mellott, Brittany Wayne, Demetra Dokos, Bill Leighly, Rudy Galindo, Dylan Melody, Aura Weaver, Tim Roloff, Jesse Fox, Carrie Morse, Jenny Lupa, Debbie Judkins, Sharon Kus/Marilyn Lorch, Molly & Jess, Chelsea Danielle, Chris Dobelman, Pete Jive, Glory – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 5:30 p.m. $6. Info: 815-787-9547.

Open Mic – The Grove, 100 E. Grove St. 6 p.m. Free. Info: 815-765-1002.

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

Bike Night, DJ & Karaoke – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. Info: 815-877-8007.

Open Stage – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Free. Every Thurs. Info: 815-962-7944.

Open Mic – Cronie’s Grill, 9032 N. Second St., Machesney Park. Every Thurs.

Friday, Jan. 13

Rockford Symphony Orchestra’s SoundBites Series Presents Mike Alongi – Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Country Club, 5151 Guilford Road. Noon. Guests may bring lunch and beverage, or order from the menu. Free to attend, but reservations strongly recommended. Info: 815-972-2939.

“Listening Room Fridays” – JustGoods, 201 Seventh St. 7 p.m. Weekly venue for composers, acoustic and classical performers, band players. This week: Pete Jonsson with Jeremy Tallacksen. Free-will donations. Info: http//justgoods.info/ or 815-965-8903.

Barstool Bob – Adriatic Café, 327 W. Jefferson St. 9:30 p.m. $3. Info: 815-967-9939.

Clutch Cargo – Big Al’s Bar, 610 N. Bell School Road. 8:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-398-6411.

Mike Williamson, Bob Rub & Bob DeVita – Butterfly Club, 5246 E. County Road X, Beloit, Wis. 7 p.m. Free. Info: 608-362-8577.

Firelight Dimmers – Hope and Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park. 7 p.m. Free. Info: 815-633-2552.

Huge Show w/Seeking Zero, Desolate, I Solemnly Swear, MY OH MY, Crossing The Delaware, It Lies Within, As They Sleep – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 4:30 p.m. Also: Vulgar Display of Comedy, 11 p.m. Info: 815-787-9547.

The Smooties, The Stanleys – Kryptonite Bar, 308 W. State St. 9 p.m. $5. Info: 815-965-0931.

Henhouse Prowlers – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-962-7944.

The Lawrence Arms w/Holy Mess, Lord – Otto’s Niteclub & Underground, 118 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 9 p.m. $15. Info: 815-758-2715.

Rollin’ Whiskey – Splitters Bar & Grill, 5318 N. Second St., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Info: 815-877-6051.

Vintage Vinyl – Shooter’s Bar & Grill East, 7171 Cherryvale Blvd., Cherry Valley. 9 p.m. Info: 815-332-5229.

Grey Matter Mechanics – Shooter’s Bar & Grill, 4007 E. State St. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. Info: 815-399-0683.

Karaoke – The Filling Station, 6259 11th St. Info: 815-874-5766.

Karaoke – The Grove, 100 E. Grove St., Poplar Grove. 9 p.m. Info: 815-765-1002.

Karaoke – Scanlan’s, 2921 City View Drive. 9 p.m. Info: 815-639-0000.

DJ – Backstop Bar & Grill, 1830 Union Ave., Belvidere. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-547-8100.

DJ – Oscar’s Pub & Grill, 5980 E. State St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-399-6100.

DJ – Manor Nightclub, 293 Executive Pkwy. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-394-0077.

DJ – Brewsky’s, 4414 Charles St. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-399-9300.

DJ – RBI’s, 3870 N. Perryville Road. 9 p.m. Info: 815-877-5592.

DJ – Tad’s, 10 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Info: 815-654-3500.

DJ – The Office Niteclub, 513 E. State St. 9 p.m. Info: 815-965-0344.

DJ Mark & Lana – FIBS, 105 W. Main St., Rockton. 9:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-624-6018.

DJ/Karaoke – Jayne’s Place, 2229 Anderson Drive, Belvidere. Info: 815-544-5153.

DJ/Karaoke – Red’s Neighborhood Tavern, 129 N. State St., Belvidere. Info: 815-544-6677.

Saturday, Jan. 14

Corky Siegel w/The Music Academy Concert – First Lutheran Church, Loreen Hall, 226 S. Second St. 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Free, open to public. Info: 815-986-0037.

Mike Williamson, Bob Rub & Bob DeVita – Butterfly Club, 5246 E. County Road X, Beloit, Wis. 7 p.m. Free. Info: 608-362-8577.

Treasa Levasseur & The Daily Special – Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 415 N. Church St. 7:30 p.m. $18 advance/$20 door. Info: 815-543-7627.

Rockford Symphony Orchestra presents “Tales from the Mideast” – Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St. 7:30 p.m. Featuring Mendelssohn: Overture to St. Paul; Hovaness: The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam, with Michael Alongi on accordion, and Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade. Info: 815-965-0049, or visit the Box Office or www.rockfordsymphony.com.

Stragglers – Adriatic Café, 327 W. Jefferson St. 9:30 p.m. $3. Info: 815-967-9939.

Acoustic Art 4 The Arc w/Adam Tobias, Cooked Grass, Phil Wright, Dave Sadtler & Misty Swift. Art displays by Corey Hagberg, Dan Lindberg, Jennifer Dyer & Jesus Correa – Bar 3, 326 E. State St. 7 p.m. Proceeds donated to The Arc in honor of our fallen friend of local music. $5. Info: 815-968-9061.

The Classix – Big Al’s Bar, 610 N. Bell School Road. 8:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-398-6411.

Desolation Row – East End Tavern, 9042 E. Illinois Rt. 72, Stillman Valley. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-988-5440.

Bullet – Grant Park Tavern, 3015 Kishwaukee St. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. Info: 815-397-9819.

State Line Band – The Grove, 100 E. Grove St., Poplar Grove. 9 p.m. Info: 815-765-1002.

X51 – Hope and Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-633-2552.

Vapor Eyes, Shane-O, Hemstreet, DJ Rae – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 8 p.m.-2 a.m. $5. Info: 815-787-9547.

Anthony Billups – Kryptonite Bar, 308 W. State St. 8 p.m. $5. Info: 815-965-0931.

Iron Cross w/Iron Mahan (Iron Maiden Tribute) – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-962-7944.

Kirkland w/Jynx Never Sticks, 3 In Counting, East Lincoln Avenue, Run and Punch – Otto’s Niteclub & Underground, 118 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 8 p.m. $7. Info: 815-758-2715.

The Sensations feat. Holland Zander – Poison Ivy Pub, 5765 Elevator Road, Roscoe. 9:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-523-1480.

Sweet Lucy – Rascal’s Bar & Grill, 5223 Torque Road, Loves Park. 9 p.m. $3. Info: 815-636-9207.

Southern Charm – Shooter’s Bar & Grill East, 7171 Cherryvale Blvd., Cherry Valley. 9 p.m. Info: 815-332-5229.

Smiley Virus – Splitters Bar & Grill, 5318 N. Second St., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Info: 815-877-6051.

Shooter – Take 20, 438 Bypass U.S. 20. 9:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-332-9920.

DJ/Karaoke – Red’s Neighborhood Tavern, 129 N. State St., Belvidere. Info: 815-544-6677.

DJ Mark & Lana – FIBS, 105 W. Main St., Rockton. 9:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-624-6018.

DJ – Tad’s, 10 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park. 9 p.m. Info: 815-654-3500.

Sunday, Jan. 15

Open Mic – Take 20, 438 Bypass U.S. 20, Cherry Valley. 8 p.m. Info: 815-332-9920.

Karaoke with Bob – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Info: 815-877-8007.

Monday, Jan. 16

“Let Freedom Ring!” – Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 415 N. Church St. 3-5 p.m. A musical community celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, hosted by Sounds Of Good News Productions, featuring the Young Eagles Soaring Inspirational Choir. Info: 815-914-1487 or MsCSOGN@aol.com.

Registration for Rock Valley Children’s Choir (Do Re Mi Singers) – Spring Creek United Church of Christ, 4500 Spring Creek Road. 4-5:30 p.m. Info: 815-964-9713.

Vinyl Voodoo – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 10:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-962-7944.

Open Mic Featured Artist – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. Info: 815-787-9547.

Tuesday, Jan. 17

Registration for Rock Valley Children’s Choir (Music Makers Chorus) – Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 415 N. Church St. 4-6 p.m. Info: 815-964-9713.

Miles Nielsen Songwriters’ Night – Adriatic Café, 327 W. Jefferson St. 8 p.m. $5. Info: 815-967-9939.

Open Stage – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-962-7944.

Karaoke – Kryptonite Music Lounge, 308 W. State St. Info: 815-965-0931.

Free Pool & Karaoke with Bob – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Info: 815-877-8007.

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 Jan. 11-17, 2012, issue

Rockford Art Museum – 711 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. Featuring: “The Chemistry of Color” thru April 22, 2012. Free for everyone every Tues. Info: 815-968-2787.

Artists’ Ensemble – Rockford College Cheek Theatre, 5050 E. State St. Info: 815-903-2277 or www.artistsensemble.org.

Kortman Gallery – 107 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Exhibiting now: “The Wright Inspiration: Art, Design, and the Laurent House.” Info: 815-968-0123.

David C. Olson Photography Studio – 7801 E. State St., inside Clock Tower Resort. Wildlife and nature imagery. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-noon, Saturday. Free. Info: 815-873-1777.

Beth Ann Weis Salon & Spa – 4108 Morsay Drive, Rockford. Hours: Tues. & Fri., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thurs., noon-9 p.m.; Sat., 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Sun., Mon., Wed. Info: 815-387-2700.

Funktional Arts – 412 N. First St. Furniture & sculpture. Info: 815-969-7942.

Discovery Center -Museum – 711 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Now featuring: Peanuts… Naturally. A lighthearted look at nature with Charlie Brown, thru Jan. 8, 2012. $1/person for members; $10/person for public. Info: 815-963-6769.

Village Gallery – Stewart Square. Artists’ co-op. 45 artists. Open Wed.-Fri., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-963-ARTS.

Bonzi Productions Theatre Group – Family theater, plays, musicals. Info: 815-394-8987.

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

Galena Artists’ Guild Gallery – 324 Spring St., Galena. Thurs.-Mon., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Info: 815-777-2870.

NIU Art Museum – Hall Case Galleries, 116 Altgeld Hall, DeKalb. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., noon-4 p.m. Exhibiting Jan. 10-Feb. 25: New to the Collection. Selection of artwork recently donated to NIU. Free. Info: 815-753-1936.

Rockford College Art Gallery – Clark Arts Center, 5050 E. State St. 3-6 p.m., Tues.-Fri. Info: 815-226-4105.

Womanspace – Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Mon.-Thurs., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Info: 815-877-0118.

Beloit Fine Arts Incubator – 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Other hours by appointment. Info: 608-313-9083.

Monroe Arts Center – 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Info: 608-325-5700 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

Burpee Museum of Natural History – 737 N. Main St. Info: 815-964-2424.

ArtSpace West – 1426 N. Main St. Tues.-Fri., 3-8 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Info: 630-546-4727 or 815-988-1501.

Age Quake Theatre – Plays for and about those 55 and older performed in the greater Rockford area. Info: 815-398-8090.

Byron Civic Theatre – 850 N. Colfax, Byron. Info: 815-312-3000, 6-9 p.m., Mon.-Thurs. and 9 a.m.-noon, Sat.

Cholke Photography & Fine Art Gallery – 2211 E. State St. Fri., 7:30-10 p.m.; Sat., 4:30-10 p.m.; Sun., 2-5 p.m. Free. Info: 815-226-9398.

The Fireside Theatre – Fort Atkinson, Wis. Coming Jan. 19: Viva Vegas. Info: 800-477-9505 or www.firesidetheatre.com.

Freeport Art Museum –121 N. Harlem Ave., Freeport. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., noon-5 p.m. Exhibiting now: 8th Annual Juried Exhibition, thru Feb. 3, 2012. Info: 815-235-9755.

DeKalb Area Women’s Center – 1021 State St., DeKalb. Fridays 7-9 p.m. Info: 815-758-1351.

Tom Littrell Design & Art Studio – 317 Market St., Rockford. Info: 815-519-5288.

Pec Playhouse Theatre – 314 Main St., Pecatonica.Info: 815-239-1210.

Timber Lake Playhouse – 8215 Black Oak Road, Mt. Carroll. Info: 815-244-2035.

Ingrid Dohm Studio Gallery – 839 N. Perryville Road. Appointments/Info: 815-519-6492.

Midtown Marketplace – 203 Seventh St. Info: 815-961-1269.

The Gallery At JustGoods – 201 Seventh St. Currently seeking local artist to present works in the Community/Art room. Info: 815-965-8903.

Charlotte Hackin Art Studio & Gallery – 6278 Brynwood Drive. Info: 815-639-1318.

Bliss Beads Studio & Gallery – 161 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb, Ill. Weekly classes in bead jewelry making, silversmithing and flamework glass. Regular hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Info: 815-517-0164.

Woodstock Musical Theatre Company – Woodstock Opera House,121 VanBuren St., Woodstock. Info: 815-338-5300.

Northwestern Illinois Theater Coalition – Opening February 2012: The Cheddar Curtain. Info: 815-281-0138.

Rock Valley College – Estelle M. Black LIbrary, Educational Resource Building, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Mon.-Thurs., 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fridays, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Womanspace, Gallery 1 – 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Opening Jan. 13, exhibit thru Feb. 23: “Realism or Not. Works by a group of artists in oil, acrylic, watercolor, glass, beadwork, pastel and mixed media. Opening reception Jan. 13, 5:30-8 p.m. Info: 815-877-0118.

NIU School of Art Faculty Exhibition – NIU Art Museum, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thru Feb. 25. (closed Dec. 17, 2011-Jan. 9, 2012]. Info: 815-753-1936.

The New Art Examiner, “Chicago’s Independent Voice of the Visual Arts,” 1973-2002 – NIU Art Museum, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thru March 10. Info: 815-753-1936.

Wednesday, Jan. 4

No listings submitted

Thursday, Jan. 5

No listings submitted

Friday, Jan. 6

No listings submitted

Saturday, Jan. 7

No listings submitted

Sunday, Jan. 8

No listings submitted

Monday, Jan. 9

No listings submitted

Tuesday, Jan. 10

New to the Collection – NIU Art Museum, Hall Case Galleries, 116 Altgeld Hall, DeKalb. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., noon-4 p.m. Exhibiting Jan. 10-Feb. 25. Selection of artwork recently donated to NIU. Free. Info: 815-753-1936.

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 Jan. 4-10, 2012, issue

Rockford Public Library Hours – Main Library open Tues.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; East Branch open Mon.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Rock River and Montague branches open Tues.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Rockton Centre Branch open Mon.-Thurs., noon-8 p.m. & Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Lewis Lemon Branch open Mon.-Fri., 2-6 p.m. All library locations closed Sundays.

Burpee Museum of Natural History – 737 N. Main St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Exhibiting thru April 29, 2012: “Ice Age Mammals.” Admission: $8 adults, $7 children 3-17, free for children younger than 3 and members; additional fee for traveling exhibits. Info: 815-965-3433.

Discovery Center Museum – 711 N. Main St. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Now featuring: Peanuts… Naturally. A lighthearted look at nature with Charlie Brown, thru Jan. 8, 2012. Now: Charlie Brown and Charles Schulz: An Appreciation of Peanuts. $1/person for members; $10/person for public. Info: 815-963-6769.

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

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden – 2715 S. Main St. Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Sundays and Mondays until April. Admission $6 adults, $3 seniors & students, children younger than 3 and Klehm members, free. Info: 815-965-8146.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stone Quarry Recreation Park – 6845 N. German Church Road, Byron. Mon.-Fri., 4-8 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., noon-8 p.m. Info: 815-234-8900.

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

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

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

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

Support for Retired Grievers – Zion Lutheran Church, 925 Fifth Ave. 10-11:30 a.m. Free. Every other Wed. Call for dates/info: 815-636-4750.

Overeaters Anonymous H.O.W.– Every Thursday at Byron Public Library, Route 2. 12-step study group – 5:30-6 p.m. Regular group meets 6-7:30 p.m. Info: 815-734-4662.

Rockford Public Library Used Book Shop – Rockford Public Library, 215 N. Wyman St. Mon.-Wed., noon-8 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Info: 815-965-7606.

Ken-Rock Community Center – 3218 11th St. Various activities throughout the year. Info: 815-398-8864.

Womanspace – 3333 Maria Linden Drive. Yoga every Thursday, 9:30-10:45 a.m. $40/four classes or $12/class. Basic Hatha Yoga. Other activities throughout the year. Info: 815-877-0118.

Beckman Mill Park – 11600 S. County Road H, off Highway 81. Tours 1-4 p.m. Corn grinding demonstrations, see the blacksmith shop, creamery & visitor center. Info: 608-751-1551.

Heritage Farm Museum – 8059 N. River Road, Byron. Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 217.

Poplar Grove Vintage Wings and Wheels Museum – 5151 Orth Road, Poplar Grove. Open weekdays 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Info: 815-547-3115.

Rock River Valley Blood Center – 419 N. Sixth St. Mon.-Thurs., 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Fri., 6:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Info: 815-965-8751 or 866-889-9037.

Kishwaukee Valley A.B.A.T.E. Meeting – V.F.W., 2018 Windsor Road, Loves Park. Second Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. Info: 815-544-3088.

Open Doors – Court Street United Methodist Church Chapel, 215 N. Court St. 12:30-1 p.m. Every Wed. Enter north end. Info: 815-962-6061.

Historic Auto Attractions – 13825 Metric Drive, Roscoe. Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Info: 815-389-9999.

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

Byron Museum of History – 106 N. Union St., Byron. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-234-5031.

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

Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off – Rock River Water Reclamation District, 3333 Kishwaukee St. Sat., 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., noon-4 p.m.

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

Rockton Township Historical Society Museum – Corner of Blackhawk Boulevard & Green Street, Rockton. Open for tours every Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Info: 815-624-4830.

Singles Together Across Rockford (STAR) – Volleyball/Game Nights, 7-10 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 343 Grand Ave., Loves Park. Second and fourth Saturdays of each month. Info: 815-962-4279.

Having Trouble Hearing on the Phone? – Center for Sight & Hearing, 8038 Macintosh Lane. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri. Free amplified phone program. Must be Illinois resident and have standard phone service. Application/info: 815-332-6800.

Winnebago County Health Dept. Flu Vaccine Available – For flu clinic schedule, call 815-720-4264 or go to www.wchd.org.

Stretch & Belly Dance Combo Beginners’ Class – Club Round, 7120 Windsor Lake Parkway. 7:30-9 p.m. Classes every Mon., Wed. & Fri. Registration/info: 815-639-0312.

Adventure Club – Jarrett Center, Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road, Byron. 9-11 a.m. or 1-3 p.m. Ages 3-6. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Intermediate Writing/Publishing Class – Meets every Mon. Call for information. Info: 224-343-0384.

Introduction to Card-Making/Stamping – Meets every Thurs. Call for information. Info: 224-343-0384.

Toddler Time – Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 2001 N. Alpine Road. 9:15-10:15 a.m. Every Mon. and Tues. Free. Info: 815-399-3171.

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

Yoga Classes – Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 Third Ave., Rockford. Mondays, 6-7:15 p.m., six weeks consecutive, $45 or single classes, $10 each. Register/Info: 815-963-4815.

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

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.

Nominations sought for NLI George & Barbara Fell Award – Individuals with outstanding achievements in land conservation. Submit to Natural Land Institute, 815-964-6666 or www.NaturalLand.org. Deadline: Jan. 27.

Registration for Wander at the Wetland: Moonlight Snowshoe & Ski – Nygren Wetland Preserve, 3190 W. Rockton Road. Date: Jan. 8. 4:32-7:08 p.m. Enjoy the winter weather in the setting of a prairie, wetlands and forest during early evening. Attendees can snowshoe, ski, or hike; rent or bring your own equipment. Snowshoes, skis and kids’ equiment can be rented from Paddle & Trail at $10 rental fee (reserve equipment by Jan. 6). Admission free, but donations accepted. Register by Jan. 6: 815-964-6666.

Registration for Webelos Badge: Naturalist – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Jan. 10, 6-8 p.m. Meet at Jarrett Center. Cost: $7/Webelo. Register by Jan. 9 at 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Registration for Breastfeeding Class – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, 5666 E. State St. Date: Jan. 11, 7-9 p.m. Included in “Baby 101” and Baby Express classes. Fathers are welcome. Info: 815-227-2695.

Celebrate Aldo Leopold’s Birthday – Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road. Date: Jan. 11, 6:30-8:30 p.m. See the film Green Fire. Free. Info: 815-335-2915.

Registration for Trip to Chicago Art Institute – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Jan. 11, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Cost: $15/person, $25/couple. Museum admission not included. Meet at Jarrett Center. Register by Jan. 9 at 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Reservations for January Life Breakfast – Hosted by The Howard Center for Family, Religion & Society and World Congress of Families. Date: Tues., Jan. 17, 7:30–8:45 a.m. at Giovanni’s. Speaker: Dr. Alveda C. King, niece of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Cost: $20 adults, $15 students, $200 table; $100 program sponsors. Info: 815-964-5819.

Registration for Trip to Cave of the Mounds – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. Date: Jan. 18. Meet at Jarrett Center at 10 a.m. Cost: $15/person, $25/couple. All ages welcome. Cave admission not included. Register by Jan. 12 at 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

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

Wednesday, Jan. 4

Babes and Books – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 11:15 a.m.-noon. Children younger than 2. Develop baby’s literacy & social skills through rhymes, stories, songs. Info: 815-965-7606.

Financial Peace University – Rockford First Assembly of God, 5950 Spring Creek Road. 6 p.m. 13-week course taught by Dave Ramsey on DVD. Info/Register: 815-877-8000.

2012 World Hypnotism Day – enTrance Center, 5844 Elaine Drive, Rockford. Free hypnotism demonstrations and free hypnosis CDs. Stop smoking, lose weight, learn deep relaxation. Info: 815-397-5901.

Diabetes Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Francis Room, 5666 E. State St. 6:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-395-5159.

Weight Loss Orientation – OSF Saint Anthony Center for Health, rotates among three OSF locations. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. every Wed. Info: 815-395-4505.

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, call her at 815-965-7606, ext. 682, or e-mail her at kkresol@rockfordpubliclibrary.org.

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

Comedy Night – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. Info: 815-877-8007.

Thursday, Jan. 5

Teen ‘Scape – Rockford Public Library, Montague Branch, 1238 S. Winnebago St. 4-7 p.m. Ages 10-19. Play games on Wii or Playstation, surf the Internet, play board games. Info: 815-965-7606.

Made in America: Mammals – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. 5-7 p.m. Meet at Jarrett Center. All ages. Register by Dec. 21. Info: 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

Sunset Storytime – Rockford Public Library, Main Library Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St. 6:30-7:15 p.m. Ages 4-10. Info: 815-965-7606.

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.

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.

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

Swing Dancing – St. Edward Church, 3004 11th St. 8-10:30 p.m. Every Thurs. Info: 815-914-7441.

Preschool Picnic Storytime – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centree Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. Noon-12:45 p.m. Ages 3-6. Bring a lunch. 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.

Support for Grief After Suicide – Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 4700 Augustana Drive. 7 p.m. Free. Every other Thurs. Call for schedule/info: 815-399-0202.

Unplugged Gamers Night – Rockford Public Library, Main Library, Young Adult Zone, 215 N. Wyman St. 5-7 p.m. Ages 13-19. Board games, Yu-Gi-Oh! trading card or classic card games. Info: 815-965-7606.

Postal Service Public Meeting on Mail Processing Study – Clock Tower Resort & Conference Center, 7801 E. State St. 7 p.m. Consideration of consolidating mail processing operations. Rescheduled from earlier date.

Learn Self-Hypnosis for Wellness – enTrance Center, 5844 Elaine Drive, Rockford. 6:30-8 p.m. $25. Call in advance: 815-397-5901.

A Ministry of Restoration Bible Study – Montague Branch Library, 1238 S. Winnebago St. 5:30 p.m. Every Thurs. Prayer every Tues. 6:30 p.m. For prayer or info: 815-966-6322.

Overeaters Anonymous H.O.W. – Byron Public Library, on Ill. Route 2. 6-7:30 p.m. every Thurs. Info: 815-547-5932.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Tues., Thurs. & Fridays during school year, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Friday, Jan. 6

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

Girlz Talk – Rockford Public Library, Lewis Lemon Branch, 1988 W. Jefferson St. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Ages 9-13. Info: 815-965-7606.

Discovery After Dark: Fermentation Information – Discovery Center Museum, Riverfront Museum Park , 711 N. Main St. 6-10 p.m. Event featuring local brewers. Learn to layer liqueurs, turn juice into wine, and learn home-brew basics. More than 200 hands-on exhibits. Cash bar by Giovanni’s and samples from local vendors. Admission: $3 members, $10 public. Reservations at: www.discoverycentermuseum.org or call 815-972-2839.

Diabetes Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Francis Room, 5666 E. State St. 6:30 p.m. open discussion. Free. Info: 815-395-5159.

Wellness for the Mind, Body & Spirit Lecture Series: Natural Health – Siena on Brendenwood, 4444 Brendenwood Road. 1:30 p.m. Ryan Hulsebus, D.C. Info: 815-399-6167.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Tues., Thurs. & Fridays during school year, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Extra Friday session, 8-10 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Saturday, Jan. 7

RVC Student Enrollment – Rock Valley College Student Center, 3301 N. Mulford Road. 8 a.m.-noon. Staff available to assist prospective students. Bring photo ID, ACT or SAT scores and previous college transcripts (if available.) Prior to coming, complete an enrollment form, available at www.rockvalleycollege.edu/enrollmentform.

Pharmacy Technician School Class – Perryville Business Centers, 6957 Olde Creek Road, Suite 2300, Rockford. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Hosted by Rx Tech Prep. Info: www.rxtechprep.net or 888-560-5953.

Partner Family Search for Habitat for Humanity – Salvation Army Building, 422 S. Main St., Belvidere. 8:30-10 a.m. Family must be able to perform at least 300 hours of sweat equity work on the home, be a Boone County resident for at least a year, and able to pay affordable monthly mortgage payments. Info: 815-288-6382.

Health & Wellness Fair – Woman-space, 3333 Maria Linden Drive. With local author Gloriann Dawson, who will sign her new book, Chloe Tales, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Story of Rockford’s first K-9 hospice volunteer and pioneer of the hospice pet visitor program. Info: 815-877-0118.

Winter Survival for Families – Welty Environmental Center, Beckman Mill County Park, 11600 S. County Road H, off Highway 81, Beloit, Wis. 10 a.m.-noon. All ages (accompanied by adult). Cost: $10 person, $25 family maximum. Hands-on workshop. Register by Jan. 5. Info: 608-361-1377 or info@weltycenter.org.

Winter Survival for Adults – Welty Environmental Center, Beckman Mill County Park, 11600 S. County Road H, off Highway 81, Beloit, Wis. 1-3 p.m. Ages 14 years and up. Cost: $20 person. Learn the basics of living off the grid. Dress for outdoors. Materials included. Maximum of 20 participants; register by Jan. 5. Info: 608-361-1377 or info@weltycenter.org.

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

“The Legend of Jesse James in Boone County” – Spring Creek United Church of Christ, 4500 Spring Creek Road. 1:30 p.m. Hosted by Winnebago and Boone Counties Genealogical Society. Speaker Mike Doyle will explore the topic, “Was Jesse James really here?” Free. All interested persons welcome. Info: 815-230-1040.

Snowshoeing (with instruction) – Seth B. Atwood Park. Youth must be accompanied by an adult during the program. Pre-registration requested. Info: 815-874-7576.

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

Family Skate – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road, Loves Park. 8 p.m. Info: 815-969-4069.

Adult Grief Support Group – Beloit Regional Hospice Office, 655 Third St., Suite 200, Beloit, Wis. 6-7:30 p.m. Info: 608-363-7421.

Kundalini Yoga – Lazy Dog Yoga Studio, 5428 Williams Drive, Roscoe. 7:30 a.m. Info: 970-485-0249.

Public Skating – Riverview Ice House, 324 N. Madison St. Info: 815-963-7465.

Public Skating – Carlson Arctic Ice Arena & Sapora Playworld, 4150 N. Perryville Road. Info: 815-969-4069.

Sunday, Jan. 8

Adoption Information Meeting – OSF St. Anthony Medical Center, 5666 E. State St. 1-3 p.m. Hosted by Children’s Home & Aid Society. For reservations, call 815-962-1043 or 888-248-4335. Walk-ins welcome.

Bon Voyage, Charlie Brown! – Discovery Center Museum, Riverfront Museum Park, 711 N. Main St. 1-4 p.m. Special nature activities, art and crafts. Design a bird feeder for Woodstock and his friends, create a ring that changes in sunlight, outline a glowing Snoopy constellation. Admission: $1 members, $10 public.

Remarkable Rookie Class Highlights Harlem Globetrotters’ Arrival into Rockford – BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St. 2 p.m. Tickets: $18, at BMO Harris Bank Center box office, by phone at 815-968-5222 or www.harlemglobetrotters.com, www.thebmoharrisbankcenter.com.

Huntington’s Disease Support Group – OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, St. Anthony and St. Joseph Rooms, 5666 E. State St. 2-4 p.m. Info: 815-395-5036.

Wander at the Wetland: Moonlight Snowshoe & Ski – Nygren Wetland Preserve, 3190 W. Rockton Road. 4:32-7:08 p.m. Enjoy the winter weather in the setting of a prairie, wetlands and forest during early evening. Attendees can snowshoe, ski, or hike; rent or bring your own equipment. Snowshoes, skis and kids’ equiment can be rented from Paddle & Trail at $10 rental fee (reserve equipment by Jan. 6). Admission free, but donations accepted. Register by Jan. 6: 815-964-6666.

Monday, Jan. 9

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

Kids Club – Rockford Public Library, Lewis Lemon Branch, 1988 W. Jefferson St. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Ages 6-12. Info: 815-965-7606.

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

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

Full Moon Ski, Hike, Snowshoe – Welty Environmental Center and Rock County Parks at Magnolia Bluff County Park, outside Evansville, Wis. 6:30 p.m. All ages welcome but children must be accompanied by adults. Cost: $5 person, $20 family maximum. Info: 608-361-1377.

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

Tuesday, Jan. 10

Kids Club – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 4-5 p.m. Ages 6-12. 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 on Wii or Playstation, surf the Internet, play board games. Info: 815-965-7606.

Stories by the Fire – Rockford Public Library, Rockton Centre Branch, 3112 N. Rockton Ave. 4-5 p.m. All ages. Bring a blanket. 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.

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

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

East Branch Second Tuesday Book Group – Rockford Public Library, East Branch, Bookworm Bakery & Cafe, 6685 E. State St. 6:30-8 p.m. Book: Sarah’s Key by Tatiana de Rosnay. Ages 18 and older. Info: 815-965-7606.

Home Composting – Welty Environmental Center, 11600 S. County Road H, off Highway 81, Beloit, Wis. 6:30 p.m. Cost: $5 suggested donation. What to do with all those kitchen scraps? Turn garbage into garden gold. Info: 608-361-1377.

“Baby 101” for Expectant Parents – OSF Saint Anthony Center for Life, Foundation Room, 5666 E. State St. 7 p.m. Cost: $35 if baby is delivered at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center; $60 if baby is delivered elsewhere. Info: 815-227-2695.

Webelos Badge: Naturalist – Byron Forest Preserve District, 7993 N. River Road. 6-8 p.m. Meet at Jarrett Center. Cost: $7/Webelo. Register by Jan. 9 at 815-234-8535, ext. 200.

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 Jan. 4-10, 2012, issue

Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center 2012-2013 Concert Season – Subscription packages or single tickets available. Next concert: Debussy, le magnifique. Date: Friday, March 2, 2012, 7:30 p.m., with pre-concert lecture by Michael Beert. Admission: $25 adults, $5 students; groups of 10 or more receive $5 off per ticket. Info: www.mendelssohnpac.org.

Registration for Rock Valley Children’s Choir for Spring 2012 – Four choirs taking registration in January: Do Re Mi Singers (grades 1-3]; Music Makers Chorus (grades 4-8); Crescendo Choir (grades 6-8, auditions required); Encore (grades 9-12]. Info: 815-964-9713.

Rockford Symphony Orchestra Patrons: Single tickets are now on sale forComEd Classics Series. Next concert: Tales from the Mideast. Date: Jan. 14. Coronado Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m. Info: www.rockfordsymphony.com, or call 815-965-0049 or visit the Box Office at Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St.

Rockford Symphony Orchestra/Rock Valley College Concerto Competition Applications – Rock Valley College Education Resource Center. Competition to be held Jan. 21. Deadline: Jan. 6. Young musicians ages 13-21 who live within a 50-mile radius of Rockford. Info: RSO offices, 711 N. Main St. or www.rockfordsymphony.com/rsyo/concerto.asp.

Allegro II: The Beloit Janesville Symphony Horn Quartet – Eaton Chapel, Beloit, Wis. Date: Jan. 12, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $15 general admission. Info: www.BeloitJanesvilleSymphony.org.

MAC Radio Live-2012 Showcase of Talent – Monroe High School Performing Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. Dates: Jan. 27, 28. 7:30 p.m. General admission: $10 adults, $5 students (18 and younger), tickets available at box office. Info for tickets or audition forms: 608-325-5700, 888-596-1249 or www.monroeartscenter.com.

Wednesday, Jan. 4

Brother K Band – Adriatic Café, 327 W. Jefferson St. 7:30 p.m. $3. Info: 815-967-9939.

Vinyl Voodoo – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 10:30 p.m. Free. Every Wed. Info: 815-962-7944.

Karaoke with Mike – Rusty Nail, 1804 Eighth Ave. 7:30 p.m.-midnight. Every Wed. Free. Info: 815-397-2510.

Open Stage w/Jim Grass – Hope and Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. Info: 815-633-2552.

Thursday, Jan. 5

Registration for Crescendo Choir and Encore (Rock Valley Children’s Choir) – Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 415 N. Church St. Crescendo, 4-6 p.m. Encore, 5-7 p.m. Info: 815-964-9713.

People, Places and Time – Adriatic Café, 327 W. Jefferson St. 9 p.m. $5. Info: 815-967-9939.

Blues Gone Wild open blues jam hosted by the Howdos blues group – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 7:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-787-9547.

Open Mic – The Grove, 100 E. Grove St. 6 p.m. Free. Info: 815-765-1002.

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

Bike Night, DJ & Karaoke – Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St. Info: 815-877-8007.

Open Stage – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Free. Every Thurs. Info: 815-962-7944.

Open Mic – Cronie’s Grill, 9032 N. Second St., Machesney Park. Every Thurs.

Friday, Jan. 6

“Listening Room Fridays” – JustGoods, 201 Seventh St. 7 p.m. Weekly venue for composers, acoustic and classical performers, band players. This week: Andrew and Casey Calhoun, with Victor Sanders . Folk, pop, swing, Scottish ballads, American spirituals. Free-will donations. Info: http//justgoods.info/ or 815-965-8903.

Fresh Hot Fritters – Adriatic Café, 327 W. Jefferson St. 9:30 p.m. $3. Info: 815-967-9939.

Primer 55 Unplugged w/Beyond Threshold acoustic & more – Bar 3, 326 E. State St. 7 p.m. $7. Info: 815-968-9061.

The Sensations feat. Holland Zander – Big Al’s Bar, 610 N. Bell School Road. 8:30 p.m. Free. Info: 815-398-6411.

Not By Chance w/The Madison Letter – The House Café, 263 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb. 6 p.m. Info: 815-787-9547.

Tattoo You w/Fake Your Money Maker – Kryptonite Music Lounge, 308 W. State St. 9 p.m. $5. Info: 815-965-0931.

Los Osos Valedores starring Jesus Correa VII – Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-962-7944.

Karaoke – The Filling Station, 6259 11th St. Info: 815-874-5766.

Karaoke – The Grove, 100 E. Grove St., Poplar Grove. 9 p.m. Info: 815-765-1002.

Karaoke – Scanlan’s, 2921 City View Drive. 9 p.m. Info: 815-639-0000.

DJ – Backstop Bar & Grill, 1830 Union Ave., Belvidere. 9 p.m. Free. Info: 815-547-8100.

DJ – Oscar’s Pub & Grill, 5980 E. State St. 9:30 p.m. Info: 815-399-6100.