http://www.rockford.edu/news/default.asp Thu, 23 May 2013 00:02:49 GMT Thu, 28 Apr 2011 14:40:53 GMT Copyright © 2011 Rockford College http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=64192 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=64192 ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- Barbara Reynolds, Ed.D.,, Senior Advisor – Education with UNICEF New Your, will speak at the college as the final lecture installment of the "Half the Sky” initiative spearheaded by civic leaders Jim and Pam Keeling.

Dr. Reynold’s lecture will take place in Regents Hall, 2nd floor Burpee Center, on Monday, May 2, from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. where she will present, "Equity For, In and Through Education.” Dr. Reynolds focus is on human rights, education in the developing world, access to education for all, opportunities for those in the education profession and the United Nations Millennium Development Goals. Dr. Reynolds has worked for UNICEF for the past 20 years and spent time as a UNICEF representative in Botswana, Nigeria, China, and Angola.

Dr. Reynolds lecture is free and open to the public. Regents Hall is accessible. Her visit is co-sponsored by the Rockford College Department of Education.

For more information about Half the Sky, visit http://www.rockford.edu/?HalfTheSky.

This story appeared at http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Senior_UNICEF_Education_Advisor_to_speak_at_Rockford__120889469.html on April 28, 2011.]]> Thu, 28 Apr 2011 15:40:53 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=62863 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=62863 By Shay Holland
RRSTAR.COM
Posted Apr 11, 2011 @ 07:45 PM

Who is she? Marti Frantz was born in Rockford and is the director of The Music Academy of Rockford College and has been a part of the school as an administrator and teacher for 25 years.

What inspires you? I love the families and teachers I work with and am inspired by them daily. They are involved, dedicated, determined and engaged in seeing that children achieve their highest potential. The learning triangle created between students, parents and teachers makes for a rich teaching and learning environment, producing amazing and highly rewarding results. I have the great fortune to have my profession, my passion and my avocation all tied together. I am inspired to make the arts relevant and central to quality of life, learning and the economy of our community.

What is up next for you? The Music Academy is moving July 1 to its new home in Loreen Hall, 226 S. Second St. The 12,000-square-foot, three-story building, along with a new partnership with First Lutheran Church (owners of Loreen Hall), offers us teaching studios, classrooms and performance spaces. We are excited to grow, to further invest in our future and the future of music education.

What do you like to do in your free time? My husband and I have a good time working hard together. We’ve farmed together, raised two boys, gutted and restored two homes, dug thousands of holes in which we’ve planted trees and shrubs, and lately we’re enjoying boating and birding on the Rock River.

Favorite song: "Little Jazz Bird” as sung by Blossom Dearie is running through my head.

Best piece of advice: "The realm of silence is large enough beyond the grave ... communicate!” — Art Doederlein, NIU professor of communications (adapted from George Eliot.)

If you could take a break, what would you do? Visit my sons and their families.

Who is your hero? Jacqueline Dupré. As a young, female cellist growing up, she was a unique role model for me. She remains one of the most remarkable musicians ever.

Favorite place in the Rock River Valley: I love my home on the Rock River. Nature is a great spectacle right outside my door. Other favorite places are the Coronado Performing Arts Center, Nygren Wetlands, the Kishwaukee River, the Rockton Inn and Northpointe Wellness.

The Rock River Valley needs ... to work on good, relevant education and wise, dedicated leadership. We need to consider the economic effects of the arts and measure the humble, human exchanges experienced through them that increase the quality of life in our community.

Favorite quote: "Do what you do intensely. The artist is the person who leaves the crowd to go pioneering. Within them is an idea which is their life.” — Robert Henri

This story appeared at http://www.rrstar.com/news/gtkm/x90875802/Marti-Frantz on April 11, 2011.]]> Tue, 12 Apr 2011 21:58:16 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=62862 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=62862 By Sean F. Driscoll
BUSINESSROCKFORD.COM
Posted Apr 11, 2011 @ 06:04 PM
Last update Apr 11, 2011 @ 07:36 PM

ROCKFORD — The post-graduation job market is likely to be kinder to this year’s crop of college graduates than those who left school at the height of the Great Recession.

The National Association of Colleges and Employers’ latest college hiring survey shows 53 percent of employers plan an increase in their college hiring compared with last year, up from less than 50 percent in the fall. NACE also conducts surveys on both hiring and recruitment activities on college campuses; both measures show improvement compared to last year.

The Great Recession was tough on all categories of job seekers, especially those leaving college with a degree but little work history. The unemployment rate for job seekers ages 20 to 24 was 15 percent in March. That’s down 0.7 percentage points from March 2010, but nearly double what it was just four years ago.

Kelly Cooper, director of the career services office at Rockford College, said she’s noticed more optimism from this year’s seniors who are starting their job hunts.

"It seems like just two years ago, a number of students were saying they would go to graduate school rather than try and look for work,” she said. "Now they’re saying maybe they should go into the work force. It’s not automatic that they stay in school.”

NACE is a professional organization that connects college career service departments with more than 3,000 recruiting staff. Every month from October to April, it polls its membership on both hiring and recruiting activities and produces an index of the responses.

Marilyn Mackes, NACE executive director, said in a news release that the index’s improvement points to the strongest hiring season for college students in two years.

This story appeared at http://www.rrstar.com/top_stories/x532924872/Survey-More-employers-plan-to-hire-recent-college-grads on April 11, 2011.]]> Mon, 11 Apr 2011 21:54:52 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=62861 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=62861 By Alex Gary
BUSINESSROCKFORD.COM
Posted Apr 09, 2011 @ 04:56 PM

ROCKFORD — Even though March 2010 wasn’t a part of the Great Recession — which officially ended in June 2009 — it may have been the bottom of the economic well for the Rock River Valley.

The jobless rate was at 17.2 percent, down from the 27-year high of 19 percent in January; the number of local people filing for bankruptcy protection soared to a five-year high; and the number of new foreclosure cases filed hit an all-time high.

A year later, the economic recovery continues to build steam, albeit slowly, and bankruptcy cases in March 2011 were down 22.2 percent from last year. Foreclosure filings were down 35.1 percent.

Fred Rezazadeh, a Rockford College economics professor, said both bankruptcies and foreclosures are lagging indicators — meaning they improve well after other indicators start showing positive signs — but the fact that fewer people are losing homes or becoming insolvent is feeding the recovery.

"You see it in improved retail sales, and normally you would see it in construction — that’s not happening this time around,” he said. Real estate sales continue to show little signs of recovery, and homebuilders have little incentive to add more homes to the market.

"Orders for capital goods is a good leading indicator,” he added. "When companies need to expand or buy new machinery, they increase their capital goods orders. That’s been improving consistently, and it’s because people have more money to spend.”

Rezazadeh cautioned that the decline in foreclosure filings may be temporary.

"The twist is that issue at the end of (2010) with the automatic document signing,” he said of the so-called robosigners who caused several major banks to halt foreclosures while they reviewed their policies. "Some of the banks held back, so it’s not clear yet what level foreclosure activity is really at.”

This story appeared at http://www.rrstar.com/top_stories/x1700910889/Rock-River-Valley-leaves-worst-of-slump-behind on April 9, 2011.]]> Sat, 9 Apr 2011 21:48:31 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=62377 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=62377 Two area students could be the next financial gurus of our time.
Posted: 11:56 AM Apr 6, 2011
Reporter: From Harris Bank

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- Two area students could be the next financial gurus of our time.

Katelyn Sanders, a seventh grader from Belvidere Central Middle School, and Bernadette Rotello, a sixth grader from St. James Catholic School in Rockford have won the Money Smart Week Rockford essay contest, sponsored by the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. These students best answered this year’s essay question: "You have been asked to give your class a short lesson on the importance of financial literacy. What would you say?”

Katelyn, the grand prize winner, was awarded a $2,000 savings bond from Harris Bank at the 2011 Money Smart Week Rockford kickoff event at Rockford College on April 1. Her essay was titled "Financial Literacy.” Bernadette, the runner up, entitled her essay "What Financial Literacy Means to Me” and received a $1,500 Bright Start Scholarship from the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office at the kick off event award presentation.

Additionally, three finalists were selected. These Rockford students each received a backpack full of goodies courtesy of Goodwill of Northern Illinois and various other Money Smart Week Partner organizations:

Colleen Brown – 8th grader from St. James Catholic School, Rockford
Erik Reck – 8th grader from Rockford Christian School, Rockford
Nicholas Russell – 7th grader from St. James Catholic School, Rockford

The Money Smart Week Rockford Essay Contest is one of the many activities held during Money Smart Week, taking place April 2 – 9. Money Smart Week offers free classes and events that help consumers learn to manage their personal finances.

The week is coordinated by the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, which serves most of Illinois, and hundreds of partner organizations dedicated to financial literacy. It is designed to educate consumers about money management and generate awareness of financial education available on a wide range of topics such as saving, investing and using credit wisely.

This story appeared at http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Winners_of_Money_Smart_Week_Essay_Contest_Announced_and_Prizes_Awarded__119334419.html?ref=419 on April 6, 2011.]]> Wed, 6 Apr 2011 20:58:57 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=62376 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=62376 By Cathy Bayer
RRSTAR.COM
Posted Apr 04, 2011 @ 09:21 PM
Last update Apr 07, 2011 @ 01:57 PM

ROCKFORD — More than 500 youngsters in the city’s Head Start program will have opportunities to attend museums and learn music, science and history lessons thanks to a $75,000 grant from PNC Foundation.

Officials from PNC Bank announced details of the grant today. It’s part of the PNC Foundation’s Grow Up Great initiative, a 10-year, $100 million bilingual initiative to improve early childhood education. The foundation will funnel $25,000 a year for three years to the city’s Head Start program, which provides early education to low-income preschool children.

Partnerships with the Music Academy of Rockford College, the Burpee Museum of Natural History and the Discovery Center Museum will expand, and special activities and curriculum will be created for more than 500 students with the grant.

"That’s how we enrich the lives of our young people, no matter what their economic background might be,” said Mayor Larry Morrissey.

Kathleen Scordato, education department manager at Burpee, compared the Head Start experience with giving kids more tools for their toolbox. As kids grow, she said, they’ll become the architects for the future.

"The more tools we can give them, the more successful they’ll be,” Scordato said.

PNC is also donating staff time to volunteer at Head Start, and the volunteers are just as important as the dollars, said George Davis, executive director of Rockford’s Human Services Department.

The funding comes at a critical time, said Head Start Director Joanne Lewis. Head Start officials should learn this week at what level the federal government will fund the program. Without such donations, the department couldn’t offer all of its current services, she said.

The city’s Head Start program relies on federal dollars. The Rockford School District’s Early Childhood Education program relies on state funding.

The state is offering pre-kindergarten funding through a competitive grant for the 2011-12 school year, and it’s unclear whether the Rockford School District will receive that funding, or if it will be enough to cover program costs. The School Board last month agreed to use as much as $6 million from its reserve fund to offer some form of the program.

This story appeared at http://www.rrstar.com/top_stories/x675816627/Rockfords-Head-Start-receives-75-000-boost-from-PNC-Bank on April 4, 2011.]]> Mon, 4 Apr 2011 20:56:47 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=61892 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=61892 Posted: 1:23 PM Mar 30, 2011

Rockford College has received continued funding for a grant from the U.S. Library of Congress.

Reporter: From Rockford College

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- Rockford College has received continued funding for a grant from the U.S. Library of Congress (LOC).

The new annual award for $160,000 in 2011 will help teach both prospective and current educators how to use the library’s vast collection of online primary sources to enrich their classroom instruction. The college is one of only 26 institutions in 12 states to be accepted into the Library of Congress’ Teaching with Primary Sources (TPS) program.

TPS is a federal teacher training project that teaches instructors how to access primary sources—actual records that have survived from the past like letters, photographs, articles of clothing and music. They are different from secondary sources, which are written account of events sometime after they happen.

"This is the third year of Rockford College's association with the Teaching with Primary Sources program. It has become a vital part of our teacher education program. Both pre-service and in-service teachers are utilizing the Library's massive collection of digitized primary sources as they plan for instruction,” says Debra Dew, Ph.D., project director and associate professor of education at Rockford College

According to Dr. Dew, some 15 million primary sources have been put online by the Library of Congress, and more are being added every day. The additional $160,000 grant supports the previous year’s funding for the program, and will be used to provide professional development workshops, compensate workshop presenters, pay stipends to faculty who integrate TPS projects in their courses and cover salary expenses. The cumulative total of the grant has reached $620,000 since it was put in place in 2008.

As part of the TPS project, area K-12 teachers will also have a chance to learn more about teaching with primary sources through face-to-face classroom instruction, workshops, and seminars. The goal is to make educators in Northern Illinois fully aware of the opportunities and value of LOC primary resources.

Education experts point to distinct benefits from using primary sources. Jacki Lutzow, third grade teacher at Marsh Elementary in Rockford, says "I have begun using the LOC as a springboard for many subjects, and as a result, the majority of my students will not only have a wider range of experiences; they will have a solid strategy for answering extended questions on the state testing.”

Susan Uram, who teaches at Spectrum School in Rockford notes, "TPS was hands down the most valuable graduate class I have taken while working on my masters degree. Witnessing my students discover, make comparisons, and synthesize information from primary sources has been a leap in the right direction for all of us. TPS was the tool that helped me breathe the life of the past into my classroom today.”

This story appeared at http://www.wifr.com/home/headlines/Library_of_Congress_Grant_Benefits_Current_and_Future_Teachers_118928609.html on March 30, 2011.
]]> Wed, 30 Mar 2011 21:39:53 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=61842 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=61842 By Maria Dripps-Paulson
Tuesday at 11:02 p.m.

The 3rd Annual Kaneland Community Fine Arts Festival Juried Art Show runs from April 1st – April 30th at the Sugar Grove Public Library during regular library hours. The Festival has partnered with the library for a second year, because the library is an outstanding space in which to showcase art and they are a part of the Kaneland Community. It is one way the Festival tries to unite the many communities of Kaneland by working with the many public and visual entities within the school's boundary.

The reception and awards ceremony for the juried art show is on Thursday, April 14th at 6:30 pm at the library. The show displays over 50 works of art from 18 artists. Returning to the show are artists such as Philip Soosloff (Rockford College art teacher) as well as Teresa Baber who does infrared photography. Mary-Glynn Boies is an oil painter and a Sycamore native. Her painting subjects are usually of children. A new artist to the show is Greta Bell from Batavia. She is an oil painter whose work is whimsical with lots of color.

The Sugar Grove Public Library is located at 125 S. Municipal Drive in Sugar Grove and is open from Tuesday – Thursday from 9am – 9pm and Friday – Saturday from 9am – 1pm.

This story appeared at http://triblocal.com/elburn-maple-park/community/stories/2011/03/the-sugar-grove-public-library-hosts-the-3rd-annual-kaneland-community-fine-arts-festival-juried-art-show/ on March 29, 2011.]]> Tue, 29 Mar 2011 15:01:48 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=61841 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=61841 By Amanda Podgorny
apodgorny@beloitdailynews.com
Published: Tuesday, March 29, 2011 11:42 AM CDT

ROSCOE — Candidates for Roscoe Village Board President and Trustee positions as well as candidates for the Hononegah School Board gathered Monday night to share their visions during a candidate forum.

The forum, sponsored by the League of Women Voters and the North Suburban Library District, was moderated by Bernard Sundstedt, the vice president of institutional advancement at Rockford College, and was held at the North Suburban District Library- Roscoe Branch, 5562 Clayton Circle.

Candidates for village president have all served time on the Roscoe Village Board in the past. They are Stacy Mallicoat, current village president Dave Krienke, Sharon Atkins and Dave DeCarlo.

The presidential candidates were asked about economic development and infrastructure, something all candidates believe needs to be improved in Roscoe.

Mallicoat said that currently he has to drive to Chicago for his job, which is based in Machesney Park because "that’s where the work is.” Maillcoat hopes to bring jobs to Roscoe.

"Businesses don’t just walk in the door any more,” Mallicoat said. "You have to go out and find them.”

While Krienke agrees that Roscoe does need to bring in more jobs, he stands by the work he has done to bring in new businesses while serving on the board.

"I do think Roscoe is a great place to live and I would like to make it a great place to work,” Krienke said.

Atkins has a different viewpoint when it comes to economic development in Roscoe. She plans to hire a marketing firm that will promote Roscoe to businesses.

"We obviously know we can do a better job and market Roscoe — and I would like to do that,” she said.

DeCarlo said focusing retail development will help the village create funds to improve the infrastructure of Roscoe. Like Atkins, he believes there needs to be a new approach to marketing Roscoe.

"We haven’t put together a package to go out and present to people,” DeCarlo said. "But what have we done? Absolutely nothing.”

Candidates for the three village trustee positions also answered a question about the top three issues in Roscoe. Candidates in attendance were Kevork Muradian, Dale Keller, Robert Baxter and Carol Gustafson. Lowell Smith was not present.

The common points between all candidates were jobs, safety and controlled development.

Muradian and Baxter both stressed the safety of the village’s children, saying there is currently nowhere for children to play within their neighborhoods causing them to flow out onto the streets.

Muradian also would like to see controlled development within Roscoe.

Baxter felt Roscoe is not "laying out the welcome mat” for businesses or residents and hopes to improve upon that.

Keller was interested in bringing more jobs and businesses to the area, where Gustafson was focused on budget issues and promoting regionalism.

Also in attendance at the forum were candidates for Hononegah School Board. John Sole, Dave Kurlinkus, Mary Lewis and Jeff Schultz were present at the forum and answered a question centering on what makes a good school board member. Absent from the forum was Matt Kentner and Dave Bergeron.

This story appeared at http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/03/29/news/local_news/news2905.txt on March 29, 2011.]]> Tue, 29 Mar 2011 14:57:45 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=61719 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=61719 GO.RRSTAR.COM
Posted Mar 24, 2011 @ 03:06 PM

The Music Academy of Rockford College will present its first All School Suzuki Showcase, created to celebrate the academy’s 25th anniversary season, at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 Third Ave., Rockford.

The family-friendly presentation is free and open to the public.

Two piano recitals will be at 8:30 and 9:30 a.m. featuring students of all ages. The 10 a.m. Suzuki String, Guitar and Flute All School Showcase Concert will feature Suzuki students from ages 3 to 18 years old playing a variety of repertoire.

The academy offers Suzuki and traditional instruction to students as young as 3 years old as well as adults. For more information, call Marti Frantz at 815-226-4168 or click here.

This sotry appeared at http://www.rrstar.com/updates/x65588079/Rockford-Colleges-Music-Academy-presents-showcase on March 24, 2011.]]> Thu, 24 Mar 2011 22:22:05 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=61444 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=61444 By Victor R. Yehling
GO.RRSTAR.COM
Posted Mar 22, 2011 @ 05:18 PM

There is a lot of "poor behavior,” as playwright Theresa Rebeck describes it, in her thriller "Mauritius,” the current Artists’ Ensemble production — and there is a lot of terrific acting.

One way to be sure that an actor playing a less-than-admirable character is doing a good job is that you really want to strangle him or her. Well, there is one of each of those in this production.

Mark Ulrich is a snake in a sharkskin suit in the role of Sterling, and he just oozes slime and very bad behavior as he tries to turn the events of this taut stage piece his way ... and it doesn’t take long before you’re wishing you could do something to stop it.

And Betsie Swartz is a cold, heartless jerk as Mary, the half sister who just couldn’t come back to visit her dying mother after taking off and leaving her sibling and parent in an apparently untenable position ... and then returning after mom died to claim the cream of the "inheritance” with absolutely no consideration for the one who remained.

Not to get too far ahead of things, Mauritius is a beautiful island in the Indian Ocean off the east coast of Africa — a former British colony (what wasn’t?) — which was one of the earliest countries to issue postage stamps. The first issue of two stamps is among the rarest prizes of philately, and those stamps appear to be in a collection left behind after mom died.

Jackie, the younger half sister played sharply and sassily by Casiena Raether, says mom left the stamps to her and goes off to have them evaluated by a stamp dealer.

She encounters Philip, a somewhat arrogant shop owner played well by Jamie Button, and Dennis, an utterly charming young man who offers his own review when Philip refuses. Dennis sternly sends Jackie home, and the game’s afoot.

Tension is woven wonderfully in every scene, whether it’s the sisters’ verbal battles over the "inheritance” or the philatelists’ argument over who knows what or any scene involving Sterling and anyone else. You could practically cut it with a knife.

The plot follows a semi-predictable path that seems to leave Jackie finally getting her reward, but the "S” curve has just started to unwind at that point. And it definitely is worth the wait.

Director Richard Raether has done an outstanding job of focusing on the acting, with good support from Angelo O’Dierno’s spare setting and effective lighting. Jan Bacino’s costuming is spot on as well.

The language of the play, by the way, is more than a little harsh — even though it is appropriate — so it’s not a good choice for kids or those easily offended.

This "Mauritius” certainly is not a vacation to a beautiful island, but it is an escape to an evening of excellent theater. The production runs through April 3 in the Cheek Theatre of the Clark Arts Center on the Rockford College campus. Call 815-904-2277 for ticket information.

This story appeared at http://www.rrstar.com/updates/x713429962/Strong-acting-nasty-characters-fuel-Mauritius on March 22, 2011.]]> Tue, 22 Mar 2011 20:59:15 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=61292 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=61292 Reporter: From Rockford College

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- Rockford College Professor of Education Louis Ferroli, Ph.D., has been selected as the recipient of the 2011 Illinois Reading Council (IRC) Hall of Fame Award.

The award is the highest award given to a member of the Illinois Reading Council and is presented in recognition of the significant contributions to reading and reading education. The Hall of Fame Award is presented at the IRC’s annual conference held in Springfield, Ill. This year’s award presentation was on March 18. The IRC has approximately 6000 members.

Dr. Ferroli has been teaching at Rockford College since 1990. He has been an active member of the IRC for more than 30 years, serving in a variety of leadership roles. He is Chair of the IRC Obama Literacy Fund Committee, former president of the West Suburban Reading Council, former president of the College Instructors of Reading Professionals, and former Treasurer of the council. He is a consistent contributor to the council’s newsletter, the Communicator, known for his "Cool Studies” section that highlights current research in reading, and has involved dozens of students from the College in presentations for at the council’s annual statewide conference.

In addition, Dr. Ferroli has been instrumental in the development of Rockford College’s Master of Arts in Teaching Reading Specialist Certification. The new track began in the fall of 2010 and allows teachers to achieve "highly qualified” status as literacy reading coaches following guidelines put in place by the No Child Left Behind Act.

This story appeared at http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Rockford_College_Professor_Recognized_with_Hall_of_Fame_Award_from_the_Illinois_Reading_Council_118393759.html?ref=759 on March 21, 2011.]]> Mon, 21 Mar 2011 22:07:55 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=61294 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=61294 GO.RRSTAR.COM
Posted Mar 16, 2011 @ 05:02 PM

The Without Shoes Dance Company will present its spring concert, "Songs of Life, Love and Flowers” at 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 25, at Rockford College’s Maddox Theatre, 5050 E. State St., Rockford.

The concert will focus on the music of the Beatles, Barber and Copland and will feature live music, guest artists as well as company members and a few special children’s pieces.

The cost is $15 for adults and $5 for students and children.

This story appeared at http://www.rrstar.com/updates/x13279945/Without-Shoes-presents-Rockford-concert-March-25 on March 16, 2011.]]> Wed, 16 Mar 2011 22:14:15 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=61289 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=61289 By Chris Green
RRSTAR.COM
Posted Mar 16, 2011 @ 12:06 AM
Last update Mar 16, 2011 @ 12:32 AM

ROCKFORD — Sheryl WuDunn and her husband, Nicholas Kristof, were in Beijing, China, on June 4, 1989, when tanks of the People’s Liberation Army opened fire on the crowds at Tiananmen Square, killing hundreds to silence a pro-democracy movement.

Tuesday at Rockford College, WuDunn said an even greater but less publicized tragedy — the oppression of women — was and still is occurring in China and around the globe.

WuDunn and Kristof are New York Times best-selling authors of "Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity.”

WuDunn, half of the Pulitzer Prize-winning duo, was the guest speaker Tuesday night at the college. The event was sponsored in part by the Rockford Register Star, Rockford Woman Magazine and rrstar.com.

Stories were shared of young girls and women living in undeveloped countries and overcoming Third World atrocities such as lack of education, violence, sex trafficking, maternal mortality and scarce employment opportunities.

WuDunn said empowering women with education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and the path to gender equality.

With the exception of microfinancing, investing in or making loans to the poor to help them rise from poverty through entrepreneurship, WuDunn didn’t specify how to get involved or what organizations to donate time or money to. Instead she encouraged the audience, particularly the students, to do their own research and to "contribute to a cause greater than yourself.”

Since the book was published in September 2009, it has caught on across the country, with many nonprofit organizations working toward their own Half the Sky initiative.

Sue Pisano, a member of the audience, said her book club read "Half the Sky” and hosted a Beads for Life party in November at the Just Goods Store. She said the book club members sold beads made by the women of Uganda and donated 100 percent of the profits, $2,500, back to the Uganda women.

Rockford College Trustee Jim Keeling and his wife, Pam, were co-sponsors of Tuesday’s event. They were instrumental in bringing WuDunn to Rockford to share her message of turning oppression into opportunity for women worldwide.

"This is what Rockford College is about and what Jane Addams (an 1881 Rockford College graduate) would have embraced,” he said. "We decided to accept the challenge of the book and find out how we could help women around the world.”

This story appeared at http://www.rrstar.com/news/x1777812079/Speaker-at-Rockford-church-addresses-oppression-of-women on March 16, 2011.]]> Wed, 16 Mar 2011 21:55:24 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=60772 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=60772 Reporter: From the RSO

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- The Rockford Symphony Orchestra (RSO) is pleased to announce the winners of the RSO Star: Who Will It Be? Competition.

Nine Stateline area competitors took the stage with the RSO on Saturday, March 12. The audience voted following their performances and the top three were announced live from the stage.

First Place: Emily Rogers of Rockford, IL
Second Place: Jordan Knapick of Machesney Park, IL
Third Place: James Edward Johnson of Rockford, IL

Emily Rogers will be the featured performer with the orchestra during the RSO’s ComEd Independence Day Spectacular at Starlight Theatre in July and received a $1,000 prize.

The RSO Star competition gave local amateur musicians the opportunity to perform at the Coronado Performing Arts Center with the Rockford Symphony Orchestra. Following auditions in September 2010, thirteen semi-finalists were selected and then narrowed to eight finalists after a public vote on the RSO website. Online voters cast 22,500 votes to select the finalists.

In addition to performances by each of the finalists and works performed solely by the RSO, Measure 5 of the Music Academy of Rockford College gave a brief performance while the votes were tabulated. Dr. Kristoffer Tumilowicz of Dental Dimensions also surprised the audience with a rendition of "I’ve Got the World on a String.”

Visit www.rockfordsymphony.com for more information about the RSO Star competition and finalists.

RSO Star is part of the Rockford Health System Pops Series and is graciously sponsored by Nadi Creative Branding Group and Dental Dimensions.

This story appeared at http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Rockford_Symphony_Orchestra_Announces_Winners_of_RSO_Star_Competition_117944819.html?ref=819 on March 14, 2011.]]> Mon, 14 Mar 2011 22:09:42 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=60771 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=60771 GO.RRSTAR.COM STAFF REPORTS
Posted Mar 14, 2011 @ 05:03 PM

Artists’ Ensemble Theater’s "Mauritius” will open Friday at Rockford College, Cheek Theatre, 5050 E. State St., Rockford.

The plot focuses on Jackie. After growing up in poverty, she has acquired two stamps from the tiny island nation of Mauritius that are worth a fortune. It won’t be simple to cash in, however.

Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays, 4 and 8 p.m. Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays starting Friday and running through April 3.

Cost is $19 for Thursday tickets. Other shows are $28, $26 for seniors, and $10 for students.

For more information, call 815-904-2277 or visit artistsensemble.org.

This story appeared at http://www.rrstar.com/updates/x1707778893/Artists-Ensemble-stages-tale-of-valuable-stamps on March 14, 2011.]]> Mon, 14 Mar 2011 22:02:37 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=60768 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=60768 By Shea Staskowski
sdnedu@bellsouth.net

Each spring, college students from around the nation head to Starkville for the building of the annual Apostles’ House.
The Apostles’ Houses are sponsored by area churches, who donate money for building supplies, and college students from other universities in other states spend their spring break helping build the home.
"Just as Jesus chose apostles, we thought that Habitat would be a good name for a ministry that all the churches could do together. We decided to name the Spring house each year the Apostles’ House,” said Peggy Branch, Habitat for Humanity office manager. "Since Habitat is a Christian ministry, and just as Jesus chose the Apostles to send out His message, we want our message to go out through the churches.”
This year’s recipient of the Apostles’ House is the Shed family. Bobby and Lywanda Shed have two sons, DeAndre, 20, and Termaine, 18.
Lywanda is on oxygen part-time and has some disabilities in her legs, which renders her unable to work, but she takes pride in doing all she can to take care of her family. Termaine has cerebral palsy. Bobby works at Starkville Ford detailing cars and has a passion for helping others.
Currently, the Sheds live in a two bedroom, one bathroom apartment with mold problems, which affects Lywanda’s breathing. Habitat reports that the Sheds are anxiously awaiting the completion of their new home at 29 Greenwood Street.
"It has become apparent, stabilizing families benefits not only the parents, but also the children and generations to come,” Branch said. "The community is improved and volunteers have an opportunity to help other people — a win win for all.”
Rockford College students from Rockford, Ill. will be the first volunteer group to help make the Shed’s dream come true. They have taken part in the Collegiate Challenge for 16 years and will make the 14 hour trek to be apart of the ground breaking of the forty-fifth Starkville Habitat home this Sunday.
More than 30 Rockford College students will be spending their spring break building the Apostles’ House, but to them, it is a spring break well spent.
"Each year that I return to Starkville, I am blown away at what can happen in less than seven days,” said Patrick Young, Rockford alumnus who is returning for his eleventh Collegiate Challenge. "Lives are changed on this trip — not just the Habitat recipient family, but also each individual walks away a different person. They walk away with new friends, new experiences and a sense of accomplishment.”
"As a co-curricular activity of Rockford College, the Alan Hutchcroft Alternative Spring Break fulfills the college’s mission to prepare students for fulfilling lives, careers and participation in a modern and changing global society,” said Robin Kenney, alternative spring break coordinator. "Students apply what has been inspired in the classroom, build leadership skills and learn the value of service to others outside the classroom. Each spring, Rockford continues the tradition by serving the Starkville community through work with Habitat for Humanity.”
When the Rockford College students arrive Sunday, they will be greeted with nothing more than a concrete slab and a pile of building supplies. Their challenge is to have shingles on the roof by the end of the seventh day.
"Weather depending, Rockford has met this challenge most years,” Kenney said. "Arriving on Sunday to a slab of cement and a stack of wood can be overwhelming at first, especially to those who are participating in the Collegiate Challenge for the first time. Watching the coordination of walls being raised—one after another—is a feeling that is not easy to describe.”
After Rockford leaves, three more universities will follow through April 23, which will complete the Collegiate Challenge.
The ground breaking on the Apostles’ House will be held Sunday at 4 p.m. at 29 Greenwood Street.

This story appeared at http://www.starkvilledailynews.com/node/4824 on March 4, 2011.]]> Fri, 4 Mar 2011 21:57:53 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=59678 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=59678 BUSINESSROCKFORD.COM
Posted Feb 26, 2011 @ 05:52 PM

Miracle Mile Rockford elected a new slate of board of directors for 2011.

They include Tom Baudhuin of Alpine Inn and Papa John’s, president; John Mecklenburg of the SwedishAmerican Foundation, vice president; Scott Hendee of Riverside Community Bank, second vice president; Paula Olson of Riverside Community Bank, secretary/treasurer; John Sommer of Don Carter Lanes, member; Ron Billy of Tyson and Billy Architects, member; Bryan Suh of Mary’s Market, member; Frank Beach, alderman with the city of Rockford, ex-officio member; and Peter Roche, retired from Riverside Community Bank, past president.

Miracle Mile is a group of business owners, managers, employees and residents working together to revitalize the neighborhood centering on East State Street from SwedishAmerican Hospital east to Rockford College, north to Highcrest and south to Charles Street.

This story appeared at http://www.rrstar.com/businessrockford/onthemove/x2114544931/Miracle-Mile-elects-board-of-directors-for-2011 on February 26, 2011.]]> Sat, 26 Feb 2011 21:47:33 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=59671 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=59671 RRSTAR.COM STAFF REPORTS
Posted Feb 24, 2011 @ 12:36 AM

ROCKFORD — Rockford College President Robert Head has accepted a new three-year contract from the college’s board of trustees.

"Dr. Head has provided great leadership to the college during his first three years, and the board is very pleased that his contract has been renewed for another three-year period,” board Chairman Dave Rydell said in a news release earlier this month.

"In addition to being very engaged with the college, Robert and his wife, Sheryl, have also become active members in the greater Rockford community, serving on several boards of not-for-profits.”

Head is the 17th president of Rockford College. His new contract will run through the completion of the 2013-14 academic year.

The college is experiencing solid enrollment numbers for the fall 2010 and spring 2011 semesters. Spring undergraduate enrollment is at its highest level in nine years, resulting in an 8 percent increase in full-time undergraduate students compared with last year.

"It is an honor to serve Rockford College,” said Head in the news release. "I truly enjoy working with our faculty, staff, students, alumni, board and friends to strengthen our institution and to expand our impact within higher education.

"I am excited to continue to move forward with a strategic planning process designed to further enhance the college’s 163-year legacy in Rockford of providing an outstanding education for its students.”

This story appeared at http://www.rrstar.com/news/x1040068140/Rockford-College-leader-agrees-to-3-year-contract on February 24, 2011.]]> Thu, 24 Feb 2011 21:27:52 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=58971 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=58971 PRESS RELEASE

Rockford, Ill. – The Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence (NICNE) at Rockford College works to build the management capacity of area nonprofit organizations by offering a variety of programs, training and resources. NICNE has recently completed a survey of participants in their Grant Writing Proposal Workshops. After completing the workshop, participants are tracked for one year on submitted grants and results. The 2009 survey respondents report writing 46 new grants in 2010, resulting in 31 funded proposals and totaling more than $13 million in new funding for the greater Rockford. NICNE Program and Membership Coordinator Karen Ream says, "This amount adds to the $4 million from the previous year to total over $17 million since the beginning of the grant writing program."

The Proposal Workshops teach nonprofits the essential elements of a proposal, how to research funders, measure results, prepare budgets, write clearly and concisely, and how to find and prepare federal grants. Pam Clark Reidenbach, Director of NICNE adds, "We have always believed that the center's funds were best spent teaching agencies to fish for themselves. The result is expanded grant writing capacity for more than 170 agencies and a huge financial return to our community."

The next Proposal Workshop session begins March 10.

This story appeared at http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14043962 on February 16, 2011.]]> Wed, 16 Feb 2011 21:36:36 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=58967 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=58967 By Elizabeth Davies
RRSTAR.COM
Posted Feb 16, 2011 @ 07:00 AM
Last update Feb 17, 2011 @ 01:01 AM

ROCKFORD — In every soul, even from birth, there is music.

There is rhythm, even for those who can’t seem to keep a beat.

There is melody, even for those who can’t carry a tune.

And in the years before we worry what others might think, little bodies are made to simply revel in music. From the soft song of a mother singing her baby to sleep to an early game of "Here We Go ’Round the Mulberry Bush,” music fills the lives of preschoolers.

So natural it seems, then, that children as young as 6 months gather at Rockford College each week for music classes that encourage their budding melodies.

"This has intrinsic value,” said Martha Franz, director of the Music Academy at Rockford College. "Moms and babies should be singing. We sing, and we teach them from the very beginning through these little songs. They bond, they learn. It’s a great way to emotionally connect even before words are involved.”

The music program, called Prelude, is a steppingstone to music education for older children at Rockford College. Aimed at children from ages 6 months to 6 years, Prelude exposes children to a variety of music from throughout the world. They learn about music as it’s developmentally appropriate — and have a good time doing it.

"They develop a base of knowledge,” Franz said. "They have a certain literacy.”

Classes are small, with a maximum of 10 children. And sometimes, they might seem a bit chaotic — as any room filled with 10 infants or toddlers might be.

"The kids will all take it on in their own ways and at their own speed,” Franz explained.

But, without the children realizing it, they’re learning about structure, memorization and fine motor skills. Whether they’re dancing to music or waving ribbons and scarves, children have the opportunity to embrace a musical world.

Prelude has been at Rockford College for 18 years. Of its four instructors, two came through the school’s Music Academy themselves. Their aim is to share their love for music with the children around them.

"There’s such joy here, and affirmation of how wonderful young people are,” Franz said. "It’s 45 minutes a week to sit back and celebrate what young people do.”

Parental involvement is core to Prelude, and that’s a special time for Mary Hampilos and her 2-year-old daughter, Demi.

"What’s nice is the interaction you have with your child,” she said. "It’s a time of bonding.”

Demi has been a Prelude student for about a year. Before that, Hampilos brought her older daughter through the program.

"I had heard it was a really great program,” she said. "It’s been really positive, that’s for sure.”

Her reasons for enrolling her daughters varied: She wanted to expose them to music. She hoped to develop musical talent. And she wanted to give them a fun, exciting outing.

"Children are born with natural instincts of music,” she said. "It seems all the children there really love it. They learn pretty simple songs, and they’re catchy. She’ll come home and remember them.”

Hampilos can’t say for sure whether her older daughter, now 7 years old and a violinist in Rockford College’s Music Academy, got a head start musically because of Prelude.

But she knows one thing.

"It sure can’t hurt to expose them” to music, she said. "She’ll never remember not being musical.”

This story appeared at http://www.rrstar.com/news/yourtown/x1240516713/Rockford-College-introduces-music-to-children-at-very-young-age on February 16, 2011.]]> Wed, 16 Feb 2011 21:28:15 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=58970 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=58970 By Corina Curry
RRSTAR.COM
Posted Feb 15, 2011 @ 04:49 PM
Last update Feb 17, 2011 @ 12:44 AM

ROCKFORD — Neighbors and business leaders of the Miracle Mile were pleased, for the most part, with what they heard at an informational meeting on the city’s road program tonight.

Several residents and business types said they support what the city is doing with its public infrastructure sales tax and feel it is being a good steward of the funds.

The Miracle Mile Business Association organized the meeting for its members and area residents.

Mayor Larry Morrissey, Public Works Director Tim Hanson and Patrick Zuroske, superintendent of infrastructure and engineering, gave a presentation and answered questions from the few dozen people who attended.

Most of the interest from the audience centered on the city’s plans for particular roads, how much money the city’s 1 percentage-point sales tax for roads has generated and what’s in the pipeline for the years to come.

While the city leaders did get some criticism regarding the proposed North Main and Auburn roundabout, they got praise as well.

"I think it was very positive,” said Ken Bennett as he left the meeting. Bennett owns a building in the Miracle Mile. "They showed the money was spent right. I appreciate the information they shared about compounding the state funding and eliminating debt.”

Helen and Joel Finegan live in the 14th Ward but came to the 10th Ward meeting because they said they were interested in what the city was doing to try to improve all areas.

"I’m very impressed with the mayor’s dedication to redevelopment,” Joel Finegan said. "He really believes in the area.”

The Miracle Mile is roughly the area north and south of East State Street from SwedishAmerican Hospital to Rockford College.

The city passed a 1 percentage-point sales tax for public infrastructure in 2007 and is using the money to fix and expand roads. The tax expires in 2012, and city leaders are trying to drum up support for an extension. A referendum to extend the tax will be on the April 5 ballot.

Association President Tom Baudhuin said he felt the city did a good job presenting what it’s done and what it plans to do.

"I think they articulated excellently the arguments to sustain the 1 percent tax,” Baudhuin said.

Baudhuin said the association is not endorsing the referendum but wants its members and neighbors to be able to make an informed decision on election day.

This story appeared at http://www.rrstar.com/carousel/x95294020/Miracle-Mile-neighbors-invited-to-discuss-capital-plan-sales-tax on February 15, 2011.]]> Tue, 15 Feb 2011 21:33:09 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=58788 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=58788 RRSTAR.COM STAFF REPORTS
Posted Feb 11, 2011 @ 02:30 PM

ROCKFORD — Rockford College President Robert Head has accepted a new three-year contract from the college’s Board of Trustees.

"Dr. Head has provided great leadership to the college during his first three years and the board is very pleased that his contract has been renewed for another three year period,” board Chairman Dave Rydell said Friday in a news release.

"In addition to being very engaged with the college, Robert and his wife, Sheryl, have also become active members in the greater Rockford community, serving on several boards of not-for-profits.”

Head is the 17th president of Rockford College. His new contract will run through the completion of the 2013-14 academic year.

The college is experiencing solid enrollment numbers for the fall 2010 and spring 2011 semesters. Spring undergraduate enrollment is at its highest level in nine years, resulting in an 8 percent increase in full-time undergraduate students compared with last year.

"It is an honor to serve Rockford College,” said Head in the same prepared news release. "I truly enjoy working with our faculty, staff, students, alumni, board, and friends to strengthen our institution and to expand our impact within higher education.

"I am excited to continue to move forward with a strategic planning process designed to further enhance the college’s 163-year legacy in Rockford of providing an outstanding education for its students.”

This story appeared at http://www.rrstar.com/updates/x167309553/Rockford-College-leader-reaches-new-contract-deal and at http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Rockford_College_President_Accepts_Renewed_Contract___115965879.html?ref=879 on February 11, 2011.]]> Fri, 11 Feb 2011 21:50:52 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=58789 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=58789 RRSTAR.COM STAFF REPORTS
Posted Feb 11, 2011 @ 02:30 PM

ROCKFORD — Rockford College President Robert Head has accepted a new three-year contract from the college’s Board of Trustees.

"Dr. Head has provided great leadership to the college during his first three years and the board is very pleased that his contract has been renewed for another three year period,” board Chairman Dave Rydell said Friday in a news release.

"In addition to being very engaged with the college, Robert and his wife, Sheryl, have also become active members in the greater Rockford community, serving on several boards of not-for-profits.”

Head is the 17th president of Rockford College. His new contract will run through the completion of the 2013-14 academic year.

The college is experiencing solid enrollment numbers for the fall 2010 and spring 2011 semesters. Spring undergraduate enrollment is at its highest level in nine years, resulting in an 8 percent increase in full-time undergraduate students compared with last year.

"It is an honor to serve Rockford College,” said Head in the same prepared news release. "I truly enjoy working with our faculty, staff, students, alumni, board, and friends to strengthen our institution and to expand our impact within higher education.

"I am excited to continue to move forward with a strategic planning process designed to further enhance the college’s 163-year legacy in Rockford of providing an outstanding education for its students.”

This story appeared at http://www.rrstar.com/updates/x167309553/Rockford-College-leader-reaches-new-contract-deal and at http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/Rockford_College_President_Accepts_Renewed_Contract___115965879.html?ref=879 on February 11, 2011.]]> Fri, 11 Feb 2011 21:50:52 GMT http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=58325 http://www.rockford.edu/news/news.asp?id=58325 RRSTAR.COM STAFF REPORTS
Posted Feb 04, 2011 @ 04:32 PM

ROCKFORD — A Rockford College faculty member and student have launched an Internet radio station available on the college’s website.

The radio station was established by associate professor of philosophy Matt Flamm, Ph.D., and student Vince Chiarelli. The station has a unique combination of musical genres, including original music from Rockford, talk sessions and various types of programming.

To listen to the station, visit rockford.edu/Members/blogs.asp, and look for the Rockford College radio button on the right side of the page or visit www.live365.com and search for Rockford College Radio.

A "faculty focus” program will interview and profile faculty on campus. A "Rockford Locals” music program will showcase musicians with interviews and in-studio performances. The station also features jazz programs and live streaming of open mic nights at the college.

This story appeared at http://www.rrstar.com/news/x549730568/Rockford-College-student-teacher-launch-Internet-radio and at http://www.wifr.com/entertainment/headlines/Internet_Radio_Station_Launched_at_Rockford_College__115298959.html on February 4, 2011.]]> Fri, 4 Feb 2011 21:55:58 GMT