DeAndre Hemby’s journey from Auburn High School to drumming for Teddy Swims
Rockford native returns to hometown to perform at Hard Rock amid national tour
By Chelsea Meyer
B103 Rockford
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ROCKFORD — DeAndre Hemby’s story is one of passion, persistence and the powerful pull of music.
Born and raised here in Rockford, music didn’t begin for him at Auburn High School — it started long before.
More music: Rockford-area musicians, regional bands keep Hard Rock rocking multiple nights a week
Hemby grew up in family where music was always present. Despite his love for basketball, he was drawn to rhythm as a child, choosing music over sports. Both activities fueled his energy, but in the end, his heart belonged to the drums.
After graduating from Auburn High School in 2013, Hemby made a bold move. He left Rockford to chase his musical dreams in Atlanta while attending Gwinnett Tech College.
In May 2022, his life changed when he connected with the rising star Teddy Swims and became the drummer for his band.
Swims — whose music blends R&B, soul, country, and pop — has been rising on multiple music charts, including hitting No. 1 earlier this year on the Billboard Hot 100 for his song "Lose Control."
Hemby's first tour with the band was nothing short of spectacular as he found himself playing across Europe — a dream that once felt far from his Rockford roots. For Hemby, whose friends call him Dre, this wasn’t just a career move, it was the culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice.
One of his favorite songs to play with Teddy Swims is “Bed on Fire.” He lights up as he talks about how fun and dynamic the setlist is, noting that Swims loves to switch things up every night.
“Every song is fun to play,” he said, “but 'Bed on Fire' and 'For the Rest of Your Life' are special to me. Teddy keeps things fresh, so every night feels like a new experience.”
The friendship among Hemby, Swims and the band is more than just professional — it’s personal. Every night before a show, they have a ritual: a pinky promise handshake.
“We pinky promise that no matter what’s going on during the day, when we hit that stage, we leave everything out there,” Hemby said.
This bond isn’t just for show.
“We don’t just say we’re a family — you can visibly see it," he said. "These are my brothers up there, and that energy is what makes our performance so transparent.”
Hemby's advice to aspiring musicians is simple yet profound: “Follow your passion, not the money. When you chase your inner drive, the money will follow."
Hemby went on to say that coming from Rockford, a small city, there’s always fear in making a leap to bigger places like Atlanta or Los Angeles.
"If you follow your dreams for the right reasons, everything will align," he said.
Now, he is preparing for a milestone performance in his hometown at the Hard Rock Casino Rockford.
This moment is huge for him — a chance to come full circle and show his city how far he’s come.
Hemby’s journey from Rockford to the world stage is a testament to following your passion and trusting the process, he said.
As he gets ready to perform at Hard Rock Casino, one thing is certain: this hometown hero’s story is just getting started.
This article is by Chelsea Meyer of B103 Rockford. You can reach her at chelsea@b103fm.com.
Teddy Swims to rock Rockford's new Hard Rock Casino, featuring hometown talent on drums
By Chelsea Meyer
B103 Rockford
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ROCKFORD — Teddy Swims is bringing his soulful voice and electric energy to the new Hard Rock Casino next month.
But this Sept. 20 show has a special connection to the city — it’s a homecoming for Teddy’s drummer, DeAndre Hemby, who was born and raised right here in Rockford.
"It feels really good to come home to perform with Teddy and the guys," Hemby said in a message to B103.
For Hemby, this isn’t just another gig — this is home. The Auburn High School graduate developed his skills locally before going on to tour with major artists like Teddy Swims. This performance is not only a chance for him to showcase his drumming, it’s also a moment to celebrate his roots and the community that shaped him.
"Never have I had the opportunity to perform with other artists I've worked with in Rockford, nor does Rockford get their own big acts to come through on normal occasions," he said. "They normally stop in Chicago or Milwaukee. So, it's good, one, for me to come home and see so many familiar faces in the crowd — and two, the city and Hard Rock to get a good vibe and major positive buzz."
As one of the most exciting new voices in music today, Swims has captivated audiences with his genre-blending style, moving seamlessly between soul, pop, and R&B. With hit tracks like “Lose Control” and “The Door,” he’s gained a massive following, and now he’s ready to bring that energy to Rockford’s own Hard Rock stage.
The concert was announced Monday on Swims' website and social media platforms.
Pre-sale tickets start at 10 a.m. Tuesday.
This article is by Chelsea Meyer. Follow B103 on Facebook.
Your guide to Fourth of July fireworks and events in the Rockford region
Compiled by Chelsea Meyer
B103 Rockford
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ROCKFORD — Independence Day is a time for celebration, and every year the Stateline hosts several spectacular fireworks shows that light up the night sky and bring communities together in patriotic festivity.
Here’s a guide to all the Fourth of July fireworks shows and festivities around the area starting as early as this weekend.
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June 29
Belvidere Heritage Days
Enjoy various activities and festivities and culminate with a fireworks show. There will be a 5K race at Doty Park with proceeds going toward keeping the festival going for years to come. There’s also a free kids’ race at 9 a.m. within the park, covering approximately 400-500 meters on the circle path.
The parade steps off at 5 p.m. with the fireworks show starting at dusk. This event is a great opportunity to celebrate the community and the rich history of the area.
When: Heritage Days' festivities starting at 9 a.m. Saturday, June 29. Fireworks at dusk.
Where: Downtown Belvidere
Hinkley Good Time for All Festival
Enjoy a day full of music, outdoor activities, food, and fireworks in Hinkley, about an hour southeast of Rockford. Other activities include a cornhole tournament, music bingo followed by a DJ, craft vendors, activities for the kids and more.
When: Festival begins at 3 p.m. Saturday, June 29. Fireworks at dusk.
Where: 700 E. Lincoln Hwy, Hinckley
Star Spangled Saturday in Janesville
Celebrate the Fourth of July with the Rock Aqua Jays Water Ski Show Team. Enjoy a full day of amusement rides, live music, a ski show and other special acts.
When: Noon on Saturday, June 29. Fireworks at dusk.
Where: Traxler Park, 600 N. Main St, Janesville
July 3
Davis Junction Independence Day Fireworks
Head out to Davis Junction for an Independence Day movie night and fireworks. Movie still pending, check The Village of Davis Junction's Facebook page for more updates.
When: 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 3. Fireworks at dusk.
Where: Community Park, 101 Lincoln Ave., Davis Junction
Edgerton Lions Fireworks Festival
The Edgerton Lions Fireworks Festival includes live music, a tug of war competition, kids activities and a petting zoo, food and beverages at the concession stand starting at 4 p.m. and fireworks at dusk.
When: 4 p.m. Wednesday, July 3. Fireworks at dusk.
Where: Racetrack Park, 900 Stoughton Road, Edgerton, Wis.
Rockford Symphony Orchestra Star Spangled Spectacular
The Rockford Symphony Orchestra performs a variety of American favorites and the always popular tribute to our community’s veterans. Plus, the food trucks will start rolling in at 6 p.m., so you can grab some delicious bites before the concert kicks off at 8 p.m.
When: 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 3
Where: Rock Valley College's Starlight Theatre, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford
Mount Morris Let Freedom Ring Festival
This multiday event takes place July 3-5 with a patriotic program at the bandshell, food, bouncy houses, live music and the ringing the Freedom Bell of Illinois at 1 p.m. July 4, simultaneously with ringing the famous Liberty Bell in Philadelphia.
The fireworks show will take place at dusk behind David L. Rahn School on July 4.
When: Wednesday, July 3 through Friday, July 5; Fireworks on July 4 at dusk.
Where: David L. Rahn School, 105 W. Brayton Road, Mount Morris
Village of Winnebago Fireworks
When: Fireworks at dusk on July 3
Where: The village of Winnebago
July 4
Byron’s Fourth of July Fireworks
This 20-minute fireworks show is set to music, and there will be food trucks, ice cream, and more.
When: Gates open at 6 p.m. on July 4; Fireworks at dusk.
Where: 7287 N. River Road, Byron
DeKalb Park District Fourth of July Celebration
Festivities begin at 2 p.m. in Hopkins Park on the Fourth of July. The fireworks will begin 30 minutes after sunset on July 4.
When: Fireworks on July 4 at dusk.
Where: Hopkins Park, 1403 Sycamore Road, DeKalb
Durand Fourth of July Festival
Enjoy an ice cream social and pork chop dinner, Durand Charm Duck Races, Bulldog Bolt 5K, the Fourth of July Bottle Flip Championship, and more at Durand's Fourth of July Festival.
When: Wednesday, July 3 and Thursday, July 4; Fireworks on July 4th at dusk
Where: 200 W. South Street, Durand
Milton Rhythm and Boom
Milton's Fourth of July Festival takes place July 3-7 with tons of patriotic activities. Miss Wisconsin meet and greet, food truck court and beer garden, carnival, live music, Papa Doc’s Axe Throwing, and more.
The parade steps off at 1 p.m. and the fireworks start at 8:30 p.m. on July 4.
When: Wednesday, July 3 through Friday, July 7.
Where: Schilberg Park, W. High Street, Milton, Wis.
Pops on the Rock in Beloit
The city of Beloit and the Beloit-Janesville Symphony Orchestra are hosting the annual patriotic concert and fireworks show on the Fourth of July.
The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Harry Moore Pavilion followed by fireworks display at dusk. Attendees bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the awesome free show or drive up on your boat.
When: Wednesday, July 3 and Thursday, July 4; Fireworks on July 4 at dusk.
Where: Riverside Park, 1160 Riverside Drive, Beloit, Wis.
Rochelle Independence Day Parade and Fireworks
Parade: 11 a.m. on July 4 in downtown Rochelle.
Fireworks and festivties: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, July 5. Fireworks at dusk
Where: Atwood Park, Tenth Ave. and 20th Street, Rochelle, Illinois
Rockford Fourth of July parade and fireworks
Activities begin at 7 a.m. July 4 with the Lifescape Classic 5 K run, followed by the Patriotic Prayer breakfast at 8:30 a.m. in Beattie Park. The motorcycle parade begins at 4:40 p.m. followed by the parade - which follows past years' route - at 5 p.m.
When: Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m. with a soundtrack broadcast on B103, found at 101.3 FM on your radio dial.
Where: Downtown Rockford; special event gathering in Davis Park, 320 S. Wyman St. Davis Park opens at 4 p.m.
Full schedule: Go HERE
July 6
Kirkland Lions Club 76th Annual Fourth of July Celebration
This three-day celebration starts on July 3 with a bags tournament, live music, 50/50 raffle, pancake breakfast, and more. The parade steps off at 11 a.m. on July 4. The fireworks show will start at 9:15 p.m. on Saturday, July 6.
When: Festival; July 3rd-July 6th; Parade, 11 a.m. July 4. Fireworks show 9:15 p.m. July 6
Where: Kirkland
July 7
Dixon Petunia Festival
Carnival runs daily throughout the Festival on Lincoln Statue Drive between Dixon High School and the Riverfront. The parade will step off at 1 p.m. on Sunday, July 7 at St. Mary's Catholic School, moving north on Peoria Avenue and ending at Dixon High School. Fireworks will begin at 9:30 p.m.
When: Wednesday, July 3rd - Sunday, July 7th; Fireworks at 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 7.
Where: 77 S. Hennepin Ave. Dixon
July 13
Freeport’s Tutty Baker Fest
Travel to Freeport for its Tutty Baker Fest from July 12-14. Craft vendors, interactive bubble stations, magic shows, petting zoo, live music, food trucks, and more. Firework shows starts at dusk on Saturday, July 13.
When: Friday, July 12 - Sunday, July 14; Fireworks on Saturday, July 13, after dusk
Where: downtown Freeport
Compiled by Chelsea Meyer. You can reach her at chelsea@b103rockford.com.
Celebrate Dad this Father's Day with this special brunch at Fresco at the Gardens in Rockford
By Chelsea Meyer
B103 Rockford
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ROCKFORD — Looking for the perfect way to celebrate Father's Day this year? Fresco at the Gardens is rolling out an extraordinary Father's Day Brunch from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 16.
Benny Salamone, who owns of Fresco at the Gardens, along with Franchesco’s and Benny’s Bar & Lounge, said he's thrilled to bring this special event to the community.
“It's the perfect way to spoil all the amazing dads and grandpas out there," Salamone said. "This year's brunch promises to be an incredible experience. We’re pulling out all the stops for the dads — they deserve some appreciation, and we’re giving it."
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Fresco at the Gardens is an artisanal breakfast and lunch restaurant set inside Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road.
So, what makes this brunch so special? For starters, there will be not one, not two, but three premium-cut carving stations featuring prime rib, honey-glazed ham and turkey.
Imagine your dad's delight as he enjoys these succulent meats. The brunch will also showcase a live pasta wheel, an assortment of fresh seafood and fresh handmade gelato.
And what’s brunch without some delightful drinks? A variety of cocktails, including mimosas and wine, will be available throughout the event. It’s the perfect way to toast to the special dads in your life.
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Salamone and his team are dedicated to making this Father’s Day one to remember.
“Our amazing staff is committed to providing exceptional service and ensuring that every guest has a wonderful dining experience," he said in a news release. "We hope to help you make Father's Day unforgettable this year.”
Ready to spoil Dad with an extraordinary brunch experience? Make your reservations by calling Fresco at the Gardens or visiting their website.
This article is by Chelsea Meyer. Email her at chelsea@b103rockford.com.
Two cultures stitched into one: Rockford couple's unique wedding wear creates social media buzz
By Chelsea Meyer
B103 Rockford
ROCKFORD — One Rockford couple's wedding turned into a local TikTok sensation thanks to their fashion-forward approach to tying the knot.
RVC Starlight Theatre Director Mychall Cornejo and Music Director Mark Miller were preparing for their big day after getting engaged on stage in 2023. Cornejo wanted to honor his Filipino heritage in a way that felt not just authentic but also special and meaningful.
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Filipino tradition calls for the male to wear a ceremonial white top that is typically ornate, Cornejo explained.
"It's called a Barong, which is what my dad wore," he said. "So, since he wore that, I wanted to find a way to incorporate that into our ceremony."
Cornejo initially wanted to wear a green suit, but his fiancé urged him to wear white. So, he went with it. What Cornejo ended up designing was a beautiful white suit jacket with a cut out back laced with flowers and a flowing veil that swept from the shoulders to the floor behind his feet.
"You only get one wedding in your entire life and I wanted to find a way to make it special," Cornejo said.
For Cornejo, the veil and suit weren't just pieces of fabric — they were symbols of identity, pride and love. He set out on a mission with his sister, Elyssa, to find decals with intricate patterns by searching online and at fabric stores that would best represent the rich symbolism of this Filipino tradition.
After gathering the materials, they brought it to Tad More Tailoring, 6116 Mulford Village Drive, suite 15, a local shop that specializes in turning old garments into new treasures.
Amanda Davis, a bridal specialist at Tad More's Tailoring, said this was all Cornejo's vision.
"He did a lot of the heavy lifting; we told him where to find these premade lace decals that we could add to the suit and so he went out and found it and he sat down with his sister, and they figured out where they wanted everything to go and all we did was pin it onto the suit for him to wear," she said.
Davis said being able to create something unique that you can't find anywhere in a store is the most rewarding part of her job.
"I spend my days trying to make people feel happy in their clothes, and feel good in their clothes, and feel like they are a real representation of themselves," she said.
Cornejo stepped out for his wedding day on Saturday in an all-white grandiose ensemble with touches of Filipino flair. Sophia Fanara, a friend who attended the wedding at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa in Galena, said she "audibly gasped" when she watched Cornejo walk down the aisle.
As for Miller, his first look at Cornejo was outside on the patio overlooking the lake.
"There were tears and not a ton of words at first," Miller said. "It sounds cliche but I was a little speechless for a minute."
Together, the couple was a visual symphony — a celebration of love, culture, and the beautiful fusion of two worlds. Miller said the first look was an intimate moment amidst the nerves and anxiety of making sure the big day went smoothly.
"It was like catch your breath, find your calm, and now turn around and see your husband in an hour, to be," he said.
A single video that captured this moment was posted on Tad More Tailoring's TikTok, and it has now been played more than 121,500 times and generated more than 35,000 likes. The video showcased not just a garment, but the craftsmanship that Mazen Qassab, Amanda Davis and the rest of the team at Tad More Tailoring poured into it.
Sarene Alsharif and her team at Tad More Tailoring are all about giving old clothes a fresh start.
Instead of letting them gather dust or becoming wasted textiles, they work their magic to turn them into stylish new outfits or cherished keepsakes. It's like they're giving your wardrobe a second chance while also doing their part to reduce clothing waste.
For those getting married soon, Tad More Tailoring is upcycling magazines and creating wedding day vision boards with couples for their big day. Couples will be able to ask wedding planning questions and enjoy light refreshments at this Wedding Vision Board Creation Event on from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on May 25.
The second event is a Sustainable Wedding Decor DIY workshop where couples will be able to join in on making upcycled wedding decorations. This event will be from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on June 27 at Tad More Tailoring.
Tad More on Tik Tok
Check out the video below:
https://www.tiktok.com/@tadmoretailoring/video/7363354446119669035
This article is by Chelsea Meyer of B103's Morning Routine. Contact her at chelsea@b103rockford.com.
The Rock River Anything That Floats Race is returning to the Rockford region in August 2024
News release
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — The Rock River Raft Race NFP Steering Committee proudly announces that the 2024 Rock River Anything That Floats Race will set sail from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18.
Since 1976, thousands of racers have floated their dreams downstream on our beautiful Rock River, and it is time once again to gather friends, family and coworkers to imagine and build your dream vessels for this year’s event.
Those who don’t float can cheer on the racers from an endless number of riverside perches between the Auburn Street bridge and the Finish Line at Prairie Street Brewing Co.
Event details can be found on the race website: rratfr.com
Rain date in the event of bad weather is Sunday, Aug. 25.
BY THE COMMUNITY, FOR THE COMMUNITY
The Rock River Anything That Floats Race all-volunteer steering committee is proud to plan and produce this incredibly fun annual event. We love seeing Rockford’s ingenuity and thirst for fun come shining through each August. When financial circumstances allow, we share proceeds with other local not-for-profits like the Fourth of July Celebration, Loves Park Ski Broncs, Rock River Trail, Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful and others. Since relaunching the race in 2017, we have shared approximately $20,000 in proceeds.
RAFT RACE DIVISIONS: DIY & HULLED CRAFT
Racers can choose from two Race Divisions:
- Do It Yourself (DIY): This is the division for the handy craftsmen and women among us who wish to design, build and test their customized rafts. Your imagination is your limit!
- Hulled Craft: If you want to race but you don’t have an unlimited amount of time to build your raft from scratch, you can use a hulled craft as a base and decorate an existing floating vessel (with no motor). Jon boat? Yep! Rowboat? You bet. Canoe? Why not?
- Details at rratfr.com
PRIZES
Entrants in both divisions compete for First, Second, and Third place prizes for Fastest Raft as well the coveted People’s Choice and Frank Schier Design and Creativity Judges Choice awards to determine the most creative designs.
SIGN UP TODAY!
Local area businesses, clubs, students and groups of individuals are encouraged to sign up and make this event a fun team-building experience. To register, visit rratfr.com.
The registration deadline is August 12, 2024. The entry fee is $100 per team (up to 10 crew members) and $50 per team for Student Teams (must be currently enrolled in an educational institution) and Not-for-Profit Organization teams.
RELEASE THE QUACKIN’!
Returning to this year’s event will be the popular dockside Release The Quackin’ in which race attendees of all ages fire toy yellow ducks at a mid-river floating target with a giant dock-mounted slingshot at Prairie Street Brewing Co. Prizes are won and fun is had by participants and spectators at this one-of-a-kind event-within-an-event.
H2-Oh! ENVIRONMENTAL FAMILY FUN FAIR
Bring the kids and join the professional Staff of Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful and other local organizations to learn the ways of water and explore the habitat along the Rock River. Take a watery quiz, drip some drops, make something float and more! It’s a great way to boost children’s eco-knowledge and fun for kids of all ages! H2-Oh! Will take place at the riverside YMCA Boathouse on the south end of the Rock River Recreation Path.
RACE SCHEDULE
Race day schedule of events includes:
- 10:00 a.m.: Sign-in starts (all categories)
- 11:00-4:00 H2-Oh! Environmental Family Fun Fair at the YMCA boathouse
- 12:00 p.m.: Race begins at the Auburn Street bridge
- 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.: Release the Quackin’ on the dock at Prairie Street Brewing Company
- 4:00 p.m.: Awards ceremony at Prairie Street Brewhouse
“On the Raft Race Steering Committee, we meet year ‘round,” said Jay Graham, Steering Committee Member. “But late winter is when our planning processes really pick up and we start to get excited to see what kind of creative surprises this year’s racers will produce. Rockford is such a creative city and we love watching people shine on race day, whether they’re floating on the river or cheering from shore. It makes all the hard work worthwhile.”
THE COURSE & THE RACE
The race course is 1.65 miles in length and ends in a grand finish at Prairie Street Brewhouse. The scenic course offers a variety of viewing options for thousands of spectators who will attend: Auburn Street Bridge, the Whitman Street Bridge, all along the Rock River Recreation Path and at Prairie Street Brewing Co. Race Day is also a big day for local clubs like Lombardi and Verdi. Pick a spot along the route and watch the rafts float by in all their glory, one by one. The race is a time trial format in which we release the rafts one by one in parade form to give each their moments in sun as they cover the length of the course.
VOLUNTEER!
It takes a Navy of volunteers to produce an event like the Rock River Anything That Floats Race. The board is looking for people interested in numerous roles to make this event a success, from planning in advance, to assisting with rafts entering the water to helping clean up the riverfront. You can be part of the crew! Visit the “VOLUNTEER” tab at rratfr.com to sign up and help.
SPONSORS WELCOME!
The Rock River Anything That Floats Race is an entirely volunteer-driven community event. The Steering Committee welcomes additional sponsors to help support our efforts, which require cash and elbow grease. Please visit our website sponsorship page for more information and to help keep RRATFR afloat now and in the future: rratfr.com/sponsors.
About The Race
Initially launched in 1976 (the U.S. Bicentennial) as a US. vs. Brits special event for a local radio station, the first Raft Race featured just two teams. In 1978, the race was opened to the public to much fanfare. Decades of enthusiastic racing and spectating ensued. More than just an homage to the incredibly popular raft races of the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s - the all-new Rock River Anything That Floats Race is a restored tradition for new generations of Rockfordians to love and experience. Additional event details can be found at rratfr.com.
Brunch, booze, and boards: A perfect Sunday at The Top Rooftop Bar & Lounge in Rockford
By Chelsea Meyer
B103
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ROCKFORD — Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront is mixing charcuterie boards and breakfast at The Top Rooftop Bar & Lounge.
Starting Sunday, The Top Rooftop Bar & Lounge will serve brunch with a chef-created menu featuring delicious options like The Top Frittata, scallops Benedict, hatch chili pork Benedict, and crème brule waffles.
On top of their delicious menu items, they are also offering shareable brunch boards.
"We've got our three signature boards but we're super excited, we're going to have themed boards that come out as specials," Kelly Plath, director of sales at Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront, said on the B103 Morning Routine.
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The Embassy Suites' rooftop lounge offers breathtaking views of downtown Rockford, making it the ideal spot to unwind. Their drink menu is curated featuring new signature cocktails, such as spicy barbecue bloody Mary, a breakfast margarita, and a cinnamon roll cold brew. Sip on a cocktail while soaking in the skyline – it's the perfect way to transition from brunch to afternoon relaxation.
"We offer 360 degree views up there, and as fall is coming and the leaves are changing," Plath said. "We are open year-round, and even in the winter you feel like you're in a snow globe up there."
About | The Top Rooftop Bar & Lounge
Where: 416 S. Main St., Rockford
Hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays
On the web: Embassy Suites Rockford Riverfront, IL Hotel Restaurant (hilton.com)
Check out the Perseids meteor shower at Severson Dells Nature Center this weekend
By Chelsea Meyer
B103 Rockford
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ROCKFORD — Get ready to wish on a shooting star and check out the most dependable celestial show this weekend.
Away from light pollution, Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road, is an ideal location for a viewing party of the Perseids meteor shower.
"The Perseids Meteor Shower happens every year around mid-July to mid-August, and it usually peaks the second weekend of August," said Liz Wiener from Severson Dells Nature Center. "It's one of the most reliable meteor showers, and it's also one of the best meteor showers of the year. You can see up to 70 meteors an hour, so that's like a meteor a minute."
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This meteor shower occurs when the Earth passes through the debris left behind by the Swift-Tuttle comet, resulting in the spectacular Perseids meteor shower. Named after the constellation Perseus, from where the meteors appear to originate, this cosmic spectacle offers a breathtaking display of brightly-colored shooting stars streaking across the night sky.
Bring a blanket or lawn chair to relax while you watch the celestial show.
The event goes from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday at
This feature is by Chelsea Meyer. Email her at chelsea@b103fm.com.
Take a swing at glow mini putt this weekend at Aldeen Practice Centre
By Chelsea Meyer
B103 Rockford
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ROCKFORD — This Saturday, as the sun sets and darkness falls, the practice center at Aldeen Golf Course will come alive with vibrant colors.
The Glow Golf event at Aldeen Golf Course, 1902 Reid Farm Road, offers a unique twist on the traditional game. Participants will be able to take a swing at glow mini-putt, glow chipping corn hole, long drive glow competition, food, drinks, music and lots more.
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Glow Golf is a family-friendly event that welcomes players of all skill levels and ages. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, you're guaranteed to have a blast. It's the perfect opportunity to introduce your kids to the game or enjoy a fun night out with friends.
Aldeen Golf Course also offers a range of amenities to enhance your evening. Grab a bite to eat at Alchemy, where you can enjoy delicious food and refreshing drinks. And don't forget to take advantage of the stunning views of the course.
Gather your friends and family, grab your glow-in-the-dark golf balls, and get ready for a night of unforgettable fun.
The event runs from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and it costs $15. Grab all the details and get registered, HERE.
This feature is by Chelsea Meyer. Email her at chelsea@b103fm.com.
Beloit restaurant serves up drinks to quench your thirst for hit movies 'Barbie' and 'Oppenheimer'
By Chelsea Meyer
B103 Rockford
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BELOIT, WIS. — Come on Barbie, let's go party at truk't in Beloit.
With the recent craze surrounding the "Barbie" and "Oppenheimer" movies, truk’t, 443 E. Grand Ave., is offering two specialty drinks through Sunday, Aug. 13.
The Barbie-rita mixes tequila, lime juice, dragon fruit simple syrup, edible glitter and lime.
The Smoked Manhattan contains Woodford Reserve, Carpano antica sweet vermouth, mandarine napolean, lemon peel and mesquite smoke.
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The restaurant and bar is gearing up for another event later this month, too.
If you're a fan of tacos and tequila, you may want to check out this special pairing event from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 29.
The "ultimate tequila and taco adventure" takes place at the Nosotros Tequila & Mezcal Tasting in The Barrel Room at truk’t.
You’ll be served a cocktail and appetizer meant to set the tone for an evening of bold flavors. A representative will guide you through the tasting and help you explore a flight featuring Nosotros Tequila Reposado, Nosotros Madera Tequila Anejo and Nosotros Mezcal.
You can also mix and match three tacos of your choice: American barbecue, pork al pastor, chicken tinga, Baja fish, charred brussels sprouts and short rib.
Tickets can be purchased HERE.
This feature is by Chelsea Meyer. Email her at chelsea@b103fm.com.