Cherry Valley promotes local businesses during 815 Day

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — 815 Day made its way outside of Rockford and into Cherry Valley today in promotion of local businesses at The Bricks Venue Center.

That’s awesome because everybody kind of comes out and they feel a sense of community. They see each other [and] they know then where to go for things,” said Aggies Uncluttered Cottage Owner Sarah Homola. “They see all these local businesses, they kind of get to know them and they know who to call. If they’re looking for something.”

Homola knows how important community events are to local businesses. It is a focus for The Bricks as they try and promote the small shops and celebrate 815 Day.

“Bricks is the first thing you see when you come across the bridge in Cherry Valley. So, we like to entertain the people of our community, put together events, and showcase what Cherry Valley does have to offer,” said The Bricks Venue Manager Tori Nassir. “We open up the retail portion in 2022. We have some shops coming up here soon and I want them to get enough exposure and thrive in their business.”

There was a live band, local vendors, offered community resources and games. Ricky Howard said it was his first 815 Day and it will not be his last.

“I’ve never experienced it before. Everything’s been really good so far,” said Howard. “I’ve actually came out to play in the back tournament they’re having here, so I’m going to get involved with that and I’m sure I’ll meet some nice people there.”

“I wanted to join the 815 Day committee to bring 815 Day just out of Rockford and into the surrounding area,” said Nassir. “So people understand what really is up here in northern Illinois and what we have to offer out here in Cherry Valley.”

Organizers are looking forward to making it even bigger next year.

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