Calendar of Events - The Parks Chamber of Commerce
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Event Type:

November 2022
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Events available for Registration...

The Parks Chamber New Member Orientation WEBINAR
6/5/2024
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The Parks Chamber New Member Orientation WEBINAR
6/5/2024
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The Parks Chamber New Member Orientation WEBINAR
6/5/2024
register for this event...

The Parks Chamber New Member Orientation WEBINAR
6/5/2024
register for this event...

The Parks Chamber New Member Orientation WEBINAR
6/5/2024
register for this event...

The Parks Chamber New Member Orientation WEBINAR
6/5/2024
register for this event...

The Parks Chamber New Member Orientation WEBINAR
6/5/2024
register for this event...

The Parks Chamber New Member Orientation WEBINAR
6/5/2024
register for this event...

The Parks Chamber New Member Orientation WEBINAR
6/5/2024
register for this event...

The Parks Chamber New Member Orientation WEBINAR
6/5/2024
register for this event...

The Parks Chamber New Member Orientation WEBINAR
6/5/2024
register for this event...

The Parks Chamber New Member Orientation WEBINAR
6/5/2024
register for this event...





Events in the month of November 2022
DateEvent
11/1/2022

You're invited to attend a Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony and Grand-Opening Celebration for Fozzy’s Skybox - located inside Indoor Sports Center at Mercyhealth Sportscore Two at 8800 E. Riverside Boulevard in Loves Park, Illinois - on Tuesday, November 1 at 5:30 PM.


Participants in the Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony will include:

  • Fozzy’s Skybox Operators Nick Fosberg and Michele Fosberg
  • Rockford Park District General Manager of Mercyhealth Sportscore Complexes Louis Mateus
  • City of Loves Park Mayor Greg Jury
  • Village of Machesney Park Mayor Steve Johnson
  • Harlem Township Supervisor Gary Jury
  • The Parks Chamber of Commerce Chairman of the Board Mike Broski and Vice Chair Julie Altenbernd
  • Young at Heart Queen and Princesses
  • Aldermen, Trustees, and senior staff from the City of Loves Park and Village of Machesney Park
  • Board Members from The Parks Chamber of Commerce 


“I’ve owned bars and restaurants for 12 years now in the area," said Fozzy’s Skybox Operator Nick Fosberg. "When I was presented with the opportunity to bring our Fozzy’s Bar & Grill brand to the Skybox location, I was excited for the opportunity! Fozzy’s Bar & Grill was started in 2019 at 6246 East Riverside, and we built another one in Spring Hill, Tennessee, last year. Since then, we’ve now finalized all the legal work to start franchising! Fozzy’s Skybox will be different from all others because of the four golf simulators that don’t just include golf, but many other games like basketball, football, soccer, carnival games, and more. We’re already starting to run indoor golf leagues and have many birthday parties and business parties being booked for the space and simulators. With having video gaming, darts, pinball, and simulators, we can bring fun for all ages. We’re excited for Spring and Summer, as we plan to have live music on the patio while also renting the 100-plus capacity patio out for events and golf outing after parties."


“Fozzy’s Skybox operating within the Indoor Sports Center will enhance this world class amateur sports facility and allow us to focus on recreational services, tournaments, events, concessions, and much more," said Louis Mateus, General Manager of Mercyhealth Sportscore Complexes. "This will also allow the Rockford Park District to continue to do what our citizens wanted us to do, reduce our footprint and free up operational and capital resources to invest in priorities such as neighborhood parks, playgrounds, youth programs, trails, and priority projects throughout the Park District.” 

 

ABOUT FOZZY’S SKYBOX

Fozzy's Skybox is a full-service restaurant and bar that is located inside Indoor Sports Center at Mercyhealth Sportscore Two in Loves Park, Illinois. In addition to world-class service, fresh food, and unique cocktails, Fozzy’s Skybox also features four multi-sports simulators, gambling machines, video games, and space for private parties and events. For more information, visit fozzysskybox.net.


more info...
11/2/2022

Members and prospective members of The Parks Chamber are invited to join us via Zoom on the first Wednesday of every month at 11:00 AM to learn more about the chamber, our events, and the benefits of membership. 

Advance registration is requested, and the Zoom link with dial-in details are provided below:

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

more info...
11/4/2022
HOORAY! PEPPA PIG LIVE! PEPPA PIG’S ADVENTURE
TO TOUR ACROSS THE US WITH A SPECIAL STOP IN ROCKFORD, IL
 
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The show, featuring the globally beloved character of Peppa Pig, will delight Rockford audiences on November 4 at 6p.m.
 
Tickets on sale July 22 via Ticketmaster
 
ROCKFORD, IL (July 19, 2022) – Round Room Live and Hasbro are thrilled to announce that Peppa Pig Live! Peppa Pig’s Adventure will bring the loveable, cheeky little piggy to live audiences across the United States, with a stop in Rockford, IL, at the Coronado Performing Arts Center on November 4.  Tickets for the live, family-friendly musical experience will go on sale July 22 at 10 a.m. with pre-sales beginning July 21. For tickets and additional information, visit Ticketmaster.com, the BMO Harris Bank Center box office, or call 815-968-5222.
 
Come join Peppa Pig on an exciting camping trip in the woods with George and her school friends, including Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald Giraffe. With lunchboxes packed and Daddy Pig driving the bus, Peppa and friends are excited about their outdoor adventures, full of singing, dancing, games and surprises. Little piggies everywhere will love this 60-minute live musical experience!
 
“We can’t wait to bring this delightful and captivating show, featuring such beloved characters, to audiences across the country,” says Stephen Shaw, tour producer and co-president of Round Room Live. “We’re proud to offer the most engaging and memorable family experiences for live entertainment fans of all ages.”
 
In an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Peppa Pig Live! Peppa Pig’s Adventure tour producers and venue management teams continue to work diligently on localized plans to ensure the safety of all audience members, touring personnel, and venue staff.  Visit the Coronado Performing Arts Center website for the most current COVID-19 information about this event.
 
Fans can visit peppapigliveus.com now for tour dates, ticket information and one-of-a-kind photo experience packages. Follow Peppa Pig Live! social media for pre-sale access and exclusive tour content.
 
FOLLOW PEPPA PIG LIVE!:
Website: www.peppapigliveus.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/PeppaPigUSTour
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/PeppaPigLiveUS
Instagram: www.instagram.com/PeppaPigUSTour
 
FOLLOW PEPPA PIG:
Website: www.peppapig.com
YouTube: www.youtube.com/peppapig
Facebook: www.facebook.com/OfficialPeppaPig
Twitter: www.twitter.com/PeppaPig
Instagram: www.instagram.com/officialpeppa
 

11/4/2022
FROSTY FRIDAYS PUBLIC SKATING SESSIONS BEGIN SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 -- It’s great to skate indoors at the coolest place in town, no matter what the weather is like outdoors! Gather family or friends for some Friday night fun and healthy exercise at Rockford Park District's Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Rd., Loves Park, IL.
          Frosty Fridays discounted indoor public ice skating sessions are scheduled every Friday from September 30, 2022 through April 28, 2023, from 7:00 until 9:00 pm. Admission is $8.00 per person (all ages), including skate rental; no discount coupons accepted. The events also include music by a DJ, and a meal deal special for purchase. Frosty Fridays are among the many low-fee family friendly events offered for the community by the Rockford Park District.
          For more information on ice skating/hockey programs and events, plus monthly public skating calendars, visit www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/publicskate, or call 815-969-4069, where information on accessibility and adapted skating equipment for people with disabilities is also available.
 

more info...
11/11/2022
FROSTY FRIDAYS PUBLIC SKATING SESSIONS BEGIN SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 -- It’s great to skate indoors at the coolest place in town, no matter what the weather is like outdoors! Gather family or friends for some Friday night fun and healthy exercise at Rockford Park District's Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Rd., Loves Park, IL.
          Frosty Fridays discounted indoor public ice skating sessions are scheduled every Friday from September 30, 2022 through April 28, 2023, from 7:00 until 9:00 pm. Admission is $8.00 per person (all ages), including skate rental; no discount coupons accepted. The events also include music by a DJ, and a meal deal special for purchase. Frosty Fridays are among the many low-fee family friendly events offered for the community by the Rockford Park District.
          For more information on ice skating/hockey programs and events, plus monthly public skating calendars, visit www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/publicskate, or call 815-969-4069, where information on accessibility and adapted skating equipment for people with disabilities is also available.
 

more info...
11/13/2022
DIRTY DANCING IN CONCERT
WORLD TOUR IS COMING TO
ROCKFORD'S CORONADO PAC NOVEMBER 13

 A global live to film concert tour commemorates the
35th anniversary of the classic hit phenomenon
 
ROCKFORD, IL (June 19, 2022) – Relive the timeless love story of Baby and Johnny as global content leader Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B), GEA Live, Karl Sydow, and Innovation Arts & Entertainment announce Dirty Dancing in Concert at the Coronado Performing Arts Center on November 13, celebrating the film’s 35th anniversary on a full-size cinema screen with a band and singers live on stage. With a soundtrack that defined a generation, Dirty Dancing in Concert promises to bring a new thrilling experience to the 80s classic! Tickets for Dirty Dancing in Concert in Rockford go on sale on Friday, June 24 at 10am CT on Ticketmaster.com, in person at the BMO Harris Bank Center and by phone at 815-968-5222.
 
Audiences attending Dirty Dancing in Concert will experience the hit film in a unique and unforgettable way. A complete screening of the digitally remastered film will play as a band and singers perform the songs live, in sync with the film. Stay for the encore party and continue to sing and dance along with the band to your favorite Dirty Dancing songs.
 
Dirty Dancing in Concert will tour in 35 cities in North America in 2022. Opening in celebration of the 35th anniversary of the film, fans will have a new way to immerse themselves in the world of Dirty Dancing while celebrating the classic they know and love. For a list of cities and ticketing information, please visit www.dirtydancinginconcert.com.
 
Dirty Dancing, written by Eleanor Bergstein, directed by Emile Ardolino, and starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey in their most iconic movie roles, was a worldwide box-office sensation when it was released in 1987. Its soundtrack generated two multi-platinum albums and multiple singles, including the Academy Award®-winning best original song “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life”. Grossing more than $213 million worldwide, Dirty Dancing captured the hearts of audiences everywhere.
 
Set in the summer of 1963, Baby Houseman (Jennifer Grey) and her family vacation to the beautiful Catskills resort, Kellerman’s. Intrigued by the staff’s dance instructor, Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze), and the vastly different lifestyle of others, Baby finds herself learning to dance while having the time of her life and falling in love. It is a summer she’ll never forget.
 
Dirty Dancing in Concert’s tour joins a series of live-to-film concerts touring internationally based on Lionsgate properties, including the highly successful La La Land in Concert, with more than 125 performances in 25 countries to date. For more information, visit www.dirtydancinginconcert.com.
 

11/16/2022
The Parks Chamber Legislative Event Series will be held from 4:00 - 6:00 PM Monthly on the Third Wednesday from February through November of 2022 at Forest Hills Country Club (5135 Forest Hills Road).
 
Each monthly event will feature the chef’s selection of heavy hors d’oeuvres, and cash bars will be open for the duration of each event:
  • 4:00 PM:  Networking Begins
  • 4:30 PM:  Welcome & Featured Speakers
  • 5:15 PM:  Networking Resumes

NOVEMBER 16 FEATURED SPEAKER: 
“State of the Park District” by Rockford Park District Executive Director Jay Sandine



Jay Sandine has served as Executive Director of Rockford Park District since May of 2017. He earned his MBA from Rockford University and began his career with the Rockford Park District in 1996, where he has since managed golf courses, police, Sportscore Complexes, aquatics, ice facilities, park maintenance, food and beverage, and revenue development. Sandine has also served on boards and committees to include the YMCA, RPS 205, Rockford IceHogs, IWBC, Six Flags Great America, the Harkins Community Memorial Foundation, Transform Rockford, Alignment Rockford, and the RACVB. In 2013, he graduated from the National Recreation and Park Association’s Directors School in West Virginia. Parks and recreation is his life, as his grandfather and father were both park superintendents.

The Parks Chamber Legislative Event Series will also feature display tables by federal, state, and local organizations that offer free and confidential services to the businesses and entrepreneurs to include:
  • Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity: DCEO provide targeted referrals and counseling for economic opportunities to businesses, including site selection; customized workforce training; regional and local collaboration; expedited permitting, licensing and other approvals; connection to key stakeholders and civic and business partners; and potential financial support to include small businesses recovery grants for those hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Illinois Small Business Development Center: The SBDC provides information, confidential business guidance, training, and other resources for start-ups and existing small businesses to include free and confidential business advising, a professional referral network, access to capital, technology development, assistance to minority business owners, and more.
  • The Workforce Connection: TWC is the local workforce development board that provides a fully integrated and accessible workforce development system that balances the needs of individuals and businesses to ensure our region has a skilled workforce to effectively compete in the global economy. TWC provides regional employers in Boone, Stephenson, and Winnebago counties with business services that make organizations more competitive, improve productivity, create new revenue streams, and improve acquisition and retention of valued employees.
  • U.S. Commercial Service: The U.S. Commercial Service recently hired a Director of International Trade, who provides free and confidential support to businesses in the Northwest Illinois territory by promoting trade, exports, and investment to help U.S. organizations compete at home and abroad.

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS & TO REGISTER

more info...
11/18/2022
You’re invited to attend a Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for the new Region 4 headquarters for Birth to Five Illinois - located at 1028 E. Riverside Boulevard in Loves Park, Illinois - on Friday, November 18 at Noon.

“The inaugural Birth to Five Illinois headquarters, established in Loves Park, is amplifying family and stakeholder voices in Boone and Winnebago Counties,” said Region 4 Manager for Birth to Five Illinois Livia Bane. “The beating heart of a productive economy is comprised of individuals who were given opportunities to learn, flourish, and grow. Birth to Five Illinois is engaging with residents to address early childhood education and care needs in their own communities. Together, we will develop a strategic plan that identifies the need for the expansion of quality early learning opportunities. Following the ribbon-cutting, we will invite attendees to tour the office space, indulge in treats, and engage in discussions regarding the region’s early care needs. Going forward, this office will be the hub for the work of Birth to Five Illinois, Region 4. We are all responsible for providing secure and healthy environments for our children. Whether you are a business owner, an educator, a parent, or service provider—when families thrive, our community and entire state thrives!”


more info...
11/18/2022
FROSTY FRIDAYS PUBLIC SKATING SESSIONS BEGIN SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 -- It’s great to skate indoors at the coolest place in town, no matter what the weather is like outdoors! Gather family or friends for some Friday night fun and healthy exercise at Rockford Park District's Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Rd., Loves Park, IL.
          Frosty Fridays discounted indoor public ice skating sessions are scheduled every Friday from September 30, 2022 through April 28, 2023, from 7:00 until 9:00 pm. Admission is $8.00 per person (all ages), including skate rental; no discount coupons accepted. The events also include music by a DJ, and a meal deal special for purchase. Frosty Fridays are among the many low-fee family friendly events offered for the community by the Rockford Park District.
          For more information on ice skating/hockey programs and events, plus monthly public skating calendars, visit www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/publicskate, or call 815-969-4069, where information on accessibility and adapted skating equipment for people with disabilities is also available.
 

more info...
11/19/2022
Join us for a spectacular night of fun and entertainment on Saturday November 19, 2022 at the 15th Annual Dancing with the Rockford Stars.

Crystal is used to mark a fifteenth anniversary, so our evening will be star studded and full of sparkle with all the pomp and circumstance of a Royal Gala. Our six Local Celebrity Couples are working hard to perfect their routines with our partnering dance studios, getting ready to trip the light fantastic and take home one of our Coveted Mirrored Ball Trophies! The Judges' Choice Award will be given to the dancers who get the highest score from our Celebrity Judges - Sara Dady, Whitney Martin, and one judge yet to be determined. The People's Choice Award will be won by the dancers with the most votes cast by the public - online and live at the event. Every $1 = 1 vote. Add a delicious meal by Greenfire, a DJ from Luxe Productions, and live and silent auctions for a great kick-off to the holiday season. Support your favorite dancers by “stuffing the ballot box” to support Family Counseling Services!

 

more info...
11/20/2022
Christmas Tree Lightings, Fireworks, & Light up the Parks Holiday Parade

Sunday, November 20, 2022

4:30 PM Fireworks & Loves Park Tree Lighting
4:45 PM Parade Starts from Loves Park City Hall
TBD Parade Ends & Machesney Park Tree Lighting

 
* NEW PARADE STARTING LOCATION!


You're invited to submit your FREE "lighted" parade entry today, which includes decorated and lighted floats, cars/trucks, and walking entries. The parade will take place into the evening so please be sure to have a lighted entry. An awards ceremony will take place during the Village of Machesney Park Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony immediately following the parade in the Town Center Roundabout. Awards will be presented to the “Best Youth”, “Best Business” and “ Best Decorated house on the parade route in “Loves Park” and another in “Machesney Park.” People dressed as Santa Claus are not allowed on any float entries. There will only be one Santa Claus in the parade, which is arranged by event organizers (this rule is for younger children who still believe).

Begin your night at Loves Park City Hall where Mayor Jury will light the City's Christmas tree at 4:30 pm and kick off the parade with fireworks.

The parade starts at 4:45 pm leaving Loves Park City Hall and crossing over to Elm Ave., turning west on Roosevelt Rd., crossing N. Second St., concluding at the Town Center, located at 8750 N. Second St.

Finish your evening with Mayor Johnson at the Town Center roundabout, immediately following the parade, as he lights the Village's 30' Christmas tree. Santa will be present to visit with the children and treats will be provided by a local church.

Remember to bring your letters to Santa.



more info...
11/22/2022
You’re invited to attend a Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony and Business AfterHours networking event at Athletico Physical Therapy – located at 1768 W Lane Road in Machensey Park, Illinois – on Tuesday, November 22.

The ceremony will take place at 4:30 PM, and the free networking event will continue until 7:00 PM. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres, beer, wine, and soft drinks will be provided.

"Athletico Physical Therapy offers a variety of physical therapy, rehabilitation, and work comp services to help patients get back to doing what they love to do," said Clinic Manager Matthew Windmoeller. "As experienced professionals, our physical therapists create custom treatment plans for each patient’s healthcare needs."


 

more info...
11/25/2022
FROSTY FRIDAYS PUBLIC SKATING SESSIONS BEGIN SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 -- It’s great to skate indoors at the coolest place in town, no matter what the weather is like outdoors! Gather family or friends for some Friday night fun and healthy exercise at Rockford Park District's Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Rd., Loves Park, IL.
          Frosty Fridays discounted indoor public ice skating sessions are scheduled every Friday from September 30, 2022 through April 28, 2023, from 7:00 until 9:00 pm. Admission is $8.00 per person (all ages), including skate rental; no discount coupons accepted. The events also include music by a DJ, and a meal deal special for purchase. Frosty Fridays are among the many low-fee family friendly events offered for the community by the Rockford Park District.
          For more information on ice skating/hockey programs and events, plus monthly public skating calendars, visit www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/publicskate, or call 815-969-4069, where information on accessibility and adapted skating equipment for people with disabilities is also available.
 

more info...
11/26/2022
Saturday, November 26, 2022 is Small Business Saturday – a day to celebrate and support small businesses and all they do for our community. 

This year, we know that small businesses need our support now more than ever as they navigate, retool, and pivot from the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

Please join The Parks Chamber, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and organizations across the country in supporting our local small businesses by shopping at a small business.


For business owners and operators, CLICK HERE for "Shop Small" marketing materials that you can use to promote your business. Simply choose your industry, select and download materials, then post directly to your accounts.