By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — Juju Rey’s Art Clubhouse, a new business that aims to unite youth and families through art and play, will open its doors on Friday.
We told you about the plans Rockford artist Judith Goudy and her partner, Reynaldo Bernard, have for the former Bath & Body Fusion at the start of last month. Now, the family has set an opening date for Friday after remodeling the space at 324 E. State St. for youth arts programs and video games.
“We want people to come and feel that energetic vibe,” Goudy said.
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The grand opening will be from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday with a neon painting party.
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Juju Rey’s provides all the supplies families need to paint, drawn and create. The business will offer rates starting at $10 and up depending on the type of art supplies you want. You can also rent time with video games that include computer games and consoles such as Playstation and Xbox.
“We really set this place up for a lot of different age groups to come in here and really have a good time,” Bernard said.
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Bernard said one focal point will be on giving teenagers a fun and safe place to play. The various video game options, he expects, will do just that.
“Everyone wanted something to do, and now we’ve given them something to do,” he said.
Bernard and Goudy, who has a bachelor’s degree in fine arts and a master’s degree in education, were also inspired to create the business while raising a child with autism. They said the city needs more resources for children with autism, and they’ve found arts and video games can be a great way for kids to connect.
“He’s right up there with the other kids when it comes to video games and learning,” Bernard said of their son, Jemani. “So through play we’re hoping kids really have a great learning experience.”
Grand opening | Juju Rey’s Art Clubhouse
Where: 324 E. State St., Rockford
When: 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, July 7
On the web: Follow Juju Rey’s Art Clubhouse on Facebook; instagram.com/jujureysartclubhouse
Email: jujureysartclubhouse@gmail.com
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on Twitter at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas