State Representative Joe Sosnowski

Having first ben elected to the Illinois General Assembly in 2010, Joe continues to advocate for the residents of the Rockford region and far northwestern suburbs with an emphasis on strengthening education, creating economic opportunities, and protecting the taxpayers of Illinois.

In the current 104th General Assembly, Representative Sosnowski serves as the Republican Spokesperson on the Revenue and Finance Committee, a leadership position that plays a decisive role in legislative debates on state spending and budget priorities. He also serves on the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability.

Representative Sosnowski also serves on the Cities & Villages Committee, Elementary & Secondary Education: administration, Licensing & Charter Schools Committee, Mental Health & Addiction Committee, Transportation: Rail Systems, Roads & Bridges Committee, and the International Relations, Tourism, and Trade Committee.

Kantorei

Kantorei serves youth ages 6-18 in the northern Illinois area. This unique program was founded in 1964 by Linden Lundstrom (1913-1996) as The Singing Boys of Rockford to provide a quality musical education while instilling in each member the rewards of self-discipline, responsibility, and dedication toward common goals.

In the 2017-2018 season, Kantorei expanded to become a fully coeducational choir serving all children in elementary to high school. Kantorei’s mission is to offer an outstanding musical education and has provided several generations of young singers the opportunity to perform high-quality choral music both throughout the stateline and around the globe.

Week 2 — Thursday, June 18, 2026

Reader: David Vella; Illinois State Representative, District 68

Program: The Wonderland Ballet Company

9:00 AM -9:45 AM | Cost – Free | Under the Pavilion

State Representative Dave Vella

Dave Vella was born and raised in Rockford, where he still proudly calls home. He began his education in RPS 205 and graduated from Boylan High School. For more than 20 years, Dave has worked as an attorney at Vella & Lund, beginning his career as a Public Defender in Winnebago Country representing people who could not afford legal help. That experience shaped his commitment to fairness, opportunity, and community.

Dave’s passion for service was inspired early on by his grandfather, Zeke Giorgi, who taught him a lesson that still guides him today: “Everyone’s the same. We all want our families and our neighbors to have a good life.” That simple truth fuels Dave’s work as a State Representative, where he stand with local workers and families to support fair wages, job security, and a strong local economy. Dave is also deeply passionate about promoting literacy and believes reading opens doors for young people. He hosts annual book drives, regularly reads to local classrooms, and donates books year-round to teachers and students to help ensure every child has access to books.

Dave believes that reading, learning, and sharing stories are powerful ways to bring communities together and is proud to be part of programs that help inspire a lifelong love of reading in the next generation.

The Wonderland Ballet Company

The Wonderland Ballet Company is a performance based supplemental company providing high quality ballet training under Creative Director Andrew Mahan and his 20+ years of training and leadership. Wonderland is an equal opportunity space that does not discriminate against body types, age, color, background, gender, sex, or any other beautiful diversity. We off affodable training to reach a wider audience and scholarships for low income individuals who have big dreams! 

Week 3 — Thursday, June 25, 2026

Reader: Aaron Wilson; Morning Weather Anchor, WIFR Channel 23

Program: The Golden Apple Foundation

9:00 AM -9:45 AM | Cost – Free | Under the Pavilion

Aaron Wilson

Aaron is known for his unique approach to delivering an upbeat forecast to prepare folks for weather.

Aaron started broadcasting at WIFR-TV while enrolled in his senior year at Rockford College. He graduated with a degree in Education and has a current teacher’s certificate for the State of Illinois. Aaron is also a graduate of Jefferson High School and has his Associate of Arts degree from Rock Valley College. He had plans of becoming an Earth Science teacher and someday a Principal. All of that came to an end when 23 News hired Aaron September of 1997.

As for his service to WIFR-TV? Aaron has coined himself as the guy that will pretty much try anything. He is seen broadcasting on location two to three times a week promoting local businesses and showing off the proud accomplishments of the region. Aaron has logged in thousands of live remotes. Some include: Living at Rock Cut State Park for a week, An RV Adventure to Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Mississppi Gulf Coast, New Orleans, Memphis, and St. Louis. Live broadcasts from Yellowknife in the North West Territories, Cancun Mexico, Six Flags Great America, Wisconsin Dells, and Quincy Illinois. It was in Quincy that Aaron shared the microphone with CBS Early Show Weather Anchor Dave Price.

The Golden Apple Foundation

Golden Apple Foundation is a volunteer-driven organization that celebrates, inspires, and supports educational excellence in our community. Local founders, Don Zimmerman and Dr. Richard Novak, took a common passion for education and turned it into a collective community effort by mobilizing volunteers to recognize excellence in teaching. 

Golden Apple Foundation teachers will engage children in interactive stations featuring STEM activities, art and crafts, and music with movement.  

Week 4 — Thursday, July 2, 2026

Reader: Tom McNamara; Mayor, City of Rockford

Program: Hoo Haven Wildlife Education & Rehabilitation Center

9:00 AM -9:45 AM | Cost – Free | Under the Pavilion

Mayor McNamara

Mayor Tom McNamara took office as the 41st Mayor of Rockford on May 1, 2017. He was re-elected on April 6, 2021 and sworn in to a second term on May 3, 2021.

Prior to becoming Mayor, Tom served the community for four years as 3rd Ward Alderman, representing constituents on Rockford’s east and west sides, as well as downtown.  As Mayor, Tom has focused on developing and implementing plans to reduce crime, increasing police technology and training, strengthening neighborhoods and schools and encouraging economic development. He has worked to reduce the city’s property taxes and has appointed members to commissions and board who are fiscally responsible and share a likeminded responsibility to use taxpayer funding efficiently and effectively.

Mayor McNamara serves on many boards across the community, including the Alignment Rockford Governing Board, Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, Illinois Community Revitalization Task Force, Illinois Municipal League Board of Directors, JB Pritzker’s Budget and Innovation Team, Metropolitan Mayors Caucus, Rockford Area Economic Development Council Board of Directors, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and the Workforce Connection Board.

The mayor is a graduate of Rockford’s Boylan Catholic High School. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in sociology and criminology and a master’s degree in non-profit administration, both from John Carroll University in Cleveland. He and his wife Sarah live with their two children in the Churchill’s Grove neighborhood.

Hoo Haven

“Hoo” Haven is dedicated to rehabilitating and releasing, sick, injured, and orphaned, North American Wildlife. And to educate individuals to the importance of the conservation of Mother Earth, to maintain the land, clean and beautiful for all. 

Week 5 — Thursday, July 9, 2026

Reader: John Gleason; Chief Operating Officer Anderson Japanese Gardens

Program: Wendy & DB – Award Winning Multi-Cultural Kindie Duo

Program Sponsored By: NSLD (North Suburban Library District)

9:00 AM -9:45 AM | Cost – Free | Under the Pavilion

John Gleason

Born and raised in New York City, John has been entertaining audiences for over 20 years. He has performed improv and sketch comedy in Off-Broadway shows such as “Eight is NEVER Enough,” “LMAO Off-Broadway,” and “Minimum Wage.” John has also traveled around the country, performing for youth groups with Improv 4 Kids. In the Midwest, he has had the opportunity to take the stage with The Second City, IO Theater, and Laugh Out Loud.

John spent five years working on board a Carnival Cruise Lines ship as a Cruise Director, where he shared his humor and talents as a performer and master of ceremonies for shows, presentations, briefings, and various activities. He even underwent an intensive two-week Game Show Host training because, well, why not?

It was on the cruise ship that John met his wife, Nicole, who was born and raised in Rockford. Her influence inspired their move from New York City to Rockford. Since relocating in 2013, John has remained active in the Hospitality, Travel, and Entertainment sectors. By day, he worked as a Hotel Sales Manager, and by night, he served as an Event DJ and EMCEE. Joining the Anderson Japanese Gardens team in 2021 has allowed him to combine all his passions: Hospitality, Tourism, Entertainment, and Community. He enjoys wearing many hats and looks forward to brightening someone’s day every day.

North Suburban Library Presents – Wendy & DB

Wendy and DB, an award-winning kindie duo from Chicago, with two guitars, a ukulele, and their voices, write and perform songs about science, nature, diversity, animals, safety, and the arts. Their unique style is reflected in the music, catchy lyrics, and vocal harmonies. They examine the world curiously; what you experience is just fun! Wendy and DB’s live shows for pre-school-age children and families explore a variety of instruments and joyful props that get everyone moving, singing, and dancing. Wendy and DB write their songs with inclusion, diversity, love, kindness, and family values.

Week 6 — Thursday, July 16, 2026

Reader: Zach Meiborg; FCEO, Meiborg Trucking & Meiborg Companies

Program: Todd Downing – Tall Tales & Silly Songs

Program Sponsored By: NSLD (North Suburban Library District)

9:00 AM -9:45 AM | Cost – Free | Under the Pavilion

Brian Carlson

Division Chief Carlson has been with the Rockford Fire Department for 27 years. He is currently the Division Chief of Administration and is a key member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Fire Chief. Division Chief Carlson is responsible for managing and coordinating the administrative functions of the department to ensure efficient and strategic internal operations that support field operations, community programs, and organizational goals.  Division Chief Carlson previously held the position of District Chief. He’ll begin as interim Fire Chief on July 9.

North Suburban Library Presents -Todd Downing – Tall Tales & Silly Songs

Todd began writing children’s music in 2012, when his first child was born. Todd has 10 years’ experience as a Music Teacher at a Music Studio and Pre-School in Naperville. His Songs quickly became favorites and the catchy tunes often had children singing the first time they heard them.

Everyone loves those tall tales! Todd tells some real whoppers and then weaves them into lively songs! Todd is a sure bet to have kids and parents moving and grooving, laughing all the way!

His show is great for small group settings as well as larger concert arenas and is perfect for children ages 2-10 and their families.

The program has kids singing, dancing, moving and laughin; there will even be bubbles! Todd brings out a bubble machine for one song and end the program witha large roll of bubble wrap for the kids (and even adults) to dance on.

Week 7 — Thursday, July 23, 2026

Reader: The Go Rockford Team

Program: Stroll on State – Christmas in July

9:00 AM -9:45 AM | Cost – Free | Under the Pavilion

The GoRockford Team

GoRockford is responsible for promoting the Rockford region as an attractive travel destination and enhancing its public image as a dynamic place to live and work. Through the impact of travel, GoRockford strengthens the economic position of the region and provides opportunities for people in our communities. www.gorockford.com

Stroll on State

Join the Stroll on State team as they bring the holiday spirit to Anderson Japanese Gardens in July!

Stroll on State is held annually on the Saturday after Thanksgiving — Small Business Saturday — and is the Rockford region’s kick-off to the holiday season. The Free community event in downtown Rockford features a parade, fireworks, tree lighting, musical performance, surprise visits from Santa, and so much more! Stroll on State is about experiencing the awe and wonder of what a community can do together.

Week 8 — Thursday, July 30, 2026

Reader: Caitlin Pusateri; Chief Operating Office, Rockford Chamber of Commerce

Program: TnZ Magic, Zack Percell

9:00 AM -9:45 AM | Cost – Free | Under the Pavilion

Caitlin Pusateri 

Caitlin Pusateri is the President of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce. She has worked for the Chamber in some capacity since 2010 and in her current role since 2022. She holds a Master’s in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Training & Development from Lewis University and a Bachelor of Arts in Music & Business Administration from Illinois Wesleyan University. She completed two national fellowships – one with the US Chamber Foundation and one with the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. She sits on multiple boards including Alignment Rockford, Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, and the Illinois Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. She is a mom of two wonderful, spunky kids and the wife of Adam. She and her family live in Rockton, IL where they enjoy parks, ice cream, and libraries.

North Suburban Library Presents: TnZ Magic with Zack Percell

Zack Percell of TnZ Magic is a full-time professional magician and a local Rockford native that happens to be a neighbor to Anderson Gardens. GHe has entertained all over the Mid-West and on 3 other continents with his mind blowing, family oriented magic shows!

Week 9 — Thursday, August 9, 2026

Reader: Brent Murray; Owner/Operator, Dairyhäus Homemade Ice Cream

Program: ScribbleMonster, Creative Music Play

Program Sponsored By: NSLD (North Suburban Library District)

9:00 AM -9:45 AM | Cost – Free | Under the Pavilion

Brent Murray 

Meet Brent Murray, the passionate owner of Dairyhäus. Since 1983, Dairyhäus has been delighting taste buds with their Homemade Ice Cream treats, all prepared in a cozy kitchen nestled in historic downtown Rockton, Illinois. With an unwavering commitment to detail and a focus on the finest ingredients, Dairyhäus takes pride in delivering the freshest and creamiest Homemade Ice Cream. Indulge conveniently by ordering at our Downtown Rockton scoop shop or, for added convenience, our delightful ice cream is also available at our esteemed local retail partners, including Schnucks, Woodman’s, Main Street Meats, Van Laars, and more.

North Suburban Library Presents – Scribble Monster

Jump and jam at a creative play music concert presented by Jim from ScribbleMonster and PBS kids’ show Wimee’s Words. ScribbleMonster’s music can be heard regularly on Sirius/XM’s Kids Place Live and has been recognized by the likes of National Public Radio, The Parents’ Choice Awards, and Parenting Magazine.

Ann Wasser

Ann has the unique opportunity to be the Director of Severson Dells Nature Center in Rockford, IL. Ann came to this position with years of experience in informal science education in very diverse settings – summer camp, outdoor school, public aquarium, aboard tall ships and most recently the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History on the Monterey Peninsula as the Director of Education.

In August of 2019, Ann received the Outstanding New Leader Award from ANCA.

Ann received her B.S in Earth System Science and Policy from CSU Monterey Bay and her M.Ed in Science Education from the University of Washington.

Discovery Centy Museum

Discovery Center Museum is a hands-on children’s science museum with more than 300 exciting interactive exhibits spread throughout 23,000 square feet on two floors. All our exhibits relate to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math). Exhibit galleries focus on the human body, forms of electricity, the science of sports, space travel, simple machines, communication, agriculture, color and light, and math. Out in the museum’s backyard, visitors can explore our Rock River Discovery Park, a 15,000 square foot multi-level science park featuring a dinosaur dig pit, maze, water play area, and a Secret Garden. Discovery Center is one of the top family attractions in Northern Illinois and has received numerous local, state, and national accolades.