Smart Living Weekly - June 17, 2015

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5 @ e w ge pa No on e gs St Se in av n tS o Ge ns

iving n g Sm mart a r t L ivi ivin ng Weekly Save Smarter • Live Better • Rockford Region/Beloit 95¢ • June 17, 2015

™

Right in Our Region

First Annual Ballyhoo Festival

By Peggy Werner

T

he first annual Rock River Ballyhoo Festival will take place from noon to 9 p.m. Saturday, June 27, on the south lawn of Davis Park.

It’s an affordable, family-friendly festival with something for all ages and brings people to a beautiful park in downtown Rockford,

says Troy Flynn, executive director and general manager of Rockford Area Venues and Entertainment Authority (RAVE), host of the event.

“It’s another chance to have a good time in the great outdoors and, since we are in the business of entertainment, we wanted to create Continued on p. 20

• Get All the SAVINGS You Deserve from Local Businesses

New Downtown Vintage Market • Kitchen Remodel 101 • Salmon Chipotle Wraps Be Nice to Your Garbage Disposal • Foot Golf! • Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint

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B U L C S ’ R E Y A L P R E I M E R P E H T

R E Y A L P H C I WH ?

U O Y E R A WHICH PLAYER ARE YOU? “Green” is an Emerald’s middle name.

When he arrives, they know his name and how to treat this MVP. Learn more about our five-tier player’s club, featuring the best gaming and amenities in the Midwest, now with more smoke-free areas!

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 20 Ballyhoo Festival Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Kitchen Remodel Basics Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Created Equal Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Salmon Chipotle Wrap Your Outings: Foot Golf .....................................17 Your Outings: City Market ..................................26 Outings: Vintage Market .....................................33 Your Health .............................................. .......... 25 Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer Your Fun .................................................... ......... 27

Restaurant of the Week .................................... 29 Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint Dining Locally ........................................... ........ 29

Tips ............................................................ ......... 31 Prevent Garbage Disposal Damage

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden

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Managing Editor Janine Pumilia Deputy Editor Sarah Soenke Assistant Editor Lindsey Gapen Senior Staff Writer/Promotions Coordinator Paul Anthony Arco Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Ryan Contributing Writers Rachel Shore, Peggy Werner

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Copyright 2015 by Hughes Media Corp., 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

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June 17

Happy Father’s Day !

C

oming up this week is the celebration of Father’s Day, on Sunday, June 21.

Ever curious about how these traditions get started, I did a little research and wasn’t surprised to learn that a woman set this one into motion, as is so often the case. (Not long ago we talked about Sarah Josepha Hale, who lobbied five American presidents to make Thanksgiving an official U.S. holiday, before Abraham Lincoln finally signed it into law in 1863.)

The woman behind Father’s Day was Sonora Smart Dodd, an Arkansas native who lived most of her life in Spokane, Wash. Her work to make Father’s Day an official holiday began in 1909, but would take nearly seven decades to complete. After Sonora’s mother, Ellen Smart, died while giving birth to her sixth child, husband William Jackson Smart, a distinguished Civil War veteran, reared his six children alone. Sonora, the eldest of the six, greatly respected her father for his effort as a single parent. His birthday was June 5.

During a church sermon, Sonora heard about the movement to establish Mother’s Day and felt fathers also should be recognized. She suggested to the Spokane Ministerial Association and the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) that a holiday be established to celebrate fathers and father figures within American society. The notion caught on locally and later gained support throughout the country, but formal recognition didn’t occur until 1972, when President Richard Nixon officially set the date as the third Sunday in June. Sonora died six years later, at age 96.

All devoted parents – and all those who stand in for them out of love and concern for children – should be appreciated every single day of the year. Surely there is no more important work.

We wish all the fathers, grandfathers, uncles and other men who help to rear children, in our region, a very happy Father’s Day. You deserve it! ❚ Janine Pumilia Executive Editor Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

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Y H  G

The Basics of a Kitchen Remodel

By Kimberly Watley plains. “They have a high shine, almost like a thick plastic or fiberglass appearance. Clean and simple, white-on-white textures in all of the cabinet lines are available.” The patina is userfriendly and easy to clean, she adds.

While neutral colors remain very popular, some people are choosing to go bold. Accent colors like indigo blue and Marsala, a deep wine red color, are popular with some, says Knabe. “It looks nice with the grey, which we’re seeing a lot of, too. We really try to go with the customer’s taste and work in trends,” she says. “We can take them from design services to the final product.”

Knabe says a kitchen should be renovated every 15 to 20 years. “Trends are time-lined about 10 years,” she says.

“It’s fun. People don’t know where to start. So they come in, find a designer, sit around the table and talk about it. We’re professionals, but we also try to make the process enjoyable.” ❚ (Benson Stone photo)

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ou’ve been thinking about it for years, dreaming of it for months, and now you’re ready. The hub of your home is ready for a makeover. But where should you begin?

Establish a financial plan. A new kitchen can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000, depending on the scope of the project and materials used. The average is about $30,000.

Once you have a general idea of your budget, the best place to start your renovation is with a trusted designer, who can change the flow of traffic simply by opening up or moving a wall, for example, to maximize both space and functionality.

Once an initial consultation is complete, the designer will provide drawings, project board sketches or computerized renditions of the finished project. This gives clients an opportunity to make changes well in advance of materials purchase.

Cabinetry, most of which is custom made, has branched out from traditional oak. Painted finishes, a wide array of wood choices and modern and rustic detailing are quite popular.

White is the hottest color designers are seeing currently and it has staying power. A classy, clean look appeals to many people, says Erin Knabe of Benson Stone Co., 1100 11th St., Rockford.

“We’re doing a lot of new acrylic Acrilux doors,” Knabe ex-

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I  W

‘Created Equal’ Our government is far from perfect, but the ideals we embrace as a democratic republic still shine as a beacon of hope for oppressed people across the globe. May we never take them for granted. In honor of the upcoming Independence Day holiday, we reprint here the first portion of the Declaration of Independence, brilliantly penned by Thomas Jefferson and signed by 56 men on July 4, 1776.

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hen in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

– That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed – That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world ... ❚ 12

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June 17

FREE FAMILY FUN! SATURDAY, JUNE 20, 2015 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM ON THE RIVERFRONT IN BELOIT! 1160 RIVERSIDE DRIVE PRESENTING

MISSISSIPPI MASS CHOIR! THE EVENT WILL INCLUDE • Regional Church Choir Performances • Hispanic Dance Performances • Traditional African Mask Making • Ethnic Food and Expo Vendors AND SO MUCH MORE!

SCHEDULE • • • • • • • • • • 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:45 pm

Youth Talent Showcase Beloit’s Sundays Best Gospel Competition Multitalented Choir Showcase New Restoration Christian Church Choir Iglesia Crosspointe The Gospel Music Workshop of America Rockford Chapter

3:20 pm 4:00 pm

Beloit’s Sunday Best Winner Announced Mississippi Mass Choir

Questions? Contact Visit Beloit!

Tara Dunn @ (608) 313-1361 or visitbeloit.com

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Y Y K K

Delicious Salmon and Chipotle Wrap S

eafood is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that help to protect against heart disease, and the USDA recommends eating it twice a week.

Salmon has long been heralded for its nutritional value, and Alaska canned salmon offers a convenient way to keep it on hand, for a quick, tasty meal or snack. At the grocery store, simply look for “Alaska” on the lid or label to ensure a top-quality, wholly natural product with nothing added but a pinch of salt for flavor.

Alaska canned pink salmon has four times the omega-3s EPA and DHA, and 12 times the vitamin D, as many popular canned meats and fish. It also has 25 percent of adults’ Recommended Daily Allowance for calcium and nearly meets the daily reference amount for selenium.

Traditional pack canned salmon contains skin and delicate, edible bones that are rich in calcium and magnesium. Pressure-cooked in the can, they are so soft they can be easily blended into the salmon, adding extra nutrients and flavor. Skinless, boneless Alaska salmon is also available in cans and pouches.

Pink salmon – the variety commonly found in cans – has a light color and mild flavor, while red salmon (or sockeye) has a richer, more intense flavor and color.

This recipe illustrates how Alaska canned salmon can be the star of a delicious main course. For additional preparation tips and recipes, visit wildaslaskaseafood.com.

4 whole wheat tortillas (8-inch) 4 large lettuce or cabbage leaves, shredded

In bowl, mix lime juice, chiles, cilantro, bell pepper, red onion, garlic, salt and pepper.

Gently stir in salmon until blended.

In small bowl, blend cream cheese and adobo sauce. Spread 1/4 mixture over each tortilla to within 1 inch of edge.

Spread 2/3 cup salmon mixture over cream cheese. Top with 1/4 of lettuce and roll up burrito-style. Repeat for remaining tortillas.

For appetizers, cut each wrap into thirds (makes 12 appetizer servings).

As a meal, cut each wrap in half (makes

4 entree servings). Serve immediately. ❚ Source: Family Features

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Fine Oils, Vinegars, & Now Spices!

Alaska Salmon & Chipotle Wrap

Prep time: 15 minutes Servings: 4 2 to 3 Tb. fresh lime juice 1 Tb. chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce 2 Tb. chopped fresh cilantro 2 Tb. chopped red bell pepper 1 to 2 Tb. chopped red onion 1 tsp. chopped garlic 1/4 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. pepper 1 can (14.75 oz.) Alaska salmon or 2 cans or pouches (6 to 7.1 oz. each) skinless, boneless salmon, drained and chunked 3 Tb. light cream cheese or light sour cream 1 tsp. adobo sauce

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Blend Soccer and Golf to Play Footgolf

By Rachel Shore

C

hances are you’ve probably played footgolf, before, without even realizing it. A combination of soccer and golf, this sport is played by kicking a soccer ball toward a designated large hole. Like golf, the goal is to achieve the lowest score, kicking the ball as few times as possible.

“For golfers, it’s a new twist on an old game, and for soccer players, it’s a new way to add finesse to their skills,” says Jamie Johannsen, Winnebago County Forest Preserve’s director of marketing and community relations.

In 2014, multiple state footgolf organizations formed the United States Footgolf Association (USFGA). Through USFGA approval, a growing number of golf courses are becoming footgolf-certified as the sport gains popularity.

Atwood Homestead Golf Course, 8990 Old River Road, Rockford, recently became USFGA-certified. It will host monthly footgolf nights throughout the summer. These affordable, family-friendly

events will begin at 5 p.m. on June 20, July 18 and Aug. 15. An 18-hole course will be set up on nine holes, so participants will travel the nine holes twice to play a full game. With both recreational and competitive categories, anyone is welcome to play, from first-time players to serious athletes.

“Don’t be intimidated if you’ve never played footgolf before,” says Johannsen.

“We’ll provide a quick overview of the rules and etiquette, and we’ll help you discover the sport so that you can have a good first experience with it.”

Why play footgolf instead of separate games of soccer or golf? The answer is simple: this hybrid sport offers a new and exciting challenge for people of all ages. Especially with declining numbers of youth who play golf, this sport gives younger people a perfect opportunity to play a fast-paced game.

“Another one of the challenges in conventional golf these days is making time to play all 18 holes,” Johannsen

explains. “Footgolf is much faster – you can be done in an hour and a half.”

For more information about Atwood’s special footgolf events and to schedule tee times, call (815) 623-2411 or visit winnebagoforest.org. ❚ Get SLW Outings articles every week. Visit NWQSmartLiving.com and start your e-Edition today.

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R  O R

Ballyhoo Festival Continued from Cover

another opportunity for people to be in Rockford’s downtown and see the momentum we’re gaining in that area.

Downtown has a cool vibe right now and the river is always a great place to be. People are always looking for things to do with the family on the weekends, especially something that’s outdoors, affordable and fun,” he says.

“It’s another chance to have a good time in the great outdoors and, since we are in the business of entertainment, we wanted to create another opportunity for people to be in Rockford’s downtown and see the momentum we’re gaining in Troy Flynn

that area. Downtown has a cool vibe right now and the river is always a great place to be. People are always looking for things to do with the family on the weekends, especially something that’s outdoors, affordable and fun,” he says.

RAVE is the board that oversees the BMO Harris Bank Center, Coronado Performing Arts Center and Davis Park, with the mission of revitalizing downtown Rockford with entertainment and sporting events. The board was appointed by Rockford Mayor Larry Morrissey, Loves Park Mayor Darryl Lindberg and Winnebago Country Chairman Scott Christiansen, in March 2010.

Activities like the City Market, the Giant Slip and Slide, and Friday Night Flix are other RAVE-sponsored events bringing life to the city’s downtown waterfront.

For only $5 a person, people can enjoy Ballyhoo Festival activities in the Kid’s Zone, including Inflatables, provided by the YMCA of the Rock River Valley, Atwood Park’s “Birds of Prey” exhibit, and Pony Rides by Tower Hills Stables. Live music will be provided by Kevin Purcell and the Nightburners, The Sensations, Recently

Paroled, the Hoodoo Rhythm Kings and Dan Phelps. Food vendors include Buddy’s Burgers, Big Papa’s Barbeque, Fork and Stein Food Truck, Papa John’s, D & A Concessions and Ole Salty’s.

In addition, Jack Cadwell Productions will be hosting a car show. Trophies will be awarded for the Top 30, 100 dash plaques, Best of Car Brands and Best of Show.

Registration will begin at 11 a.m. and end at 3 p.m. The entry fee is $15. For all questions regarding the car show, call Jack at (815) 494-0018.

Ballyhoo didn’t just happen. A lot of thought and research went into planning the festival.

A committee of six people representing every RAVE department went to work months ago, organizing and planning, setting a budget, and handling the explosion of ideas.

Flynn credits his staff for being deeply committed to their work and taking a refreshing approach to bring life to downtown Rockford.

“We started out knowing we wanted a very affordable, family-friendly activity with live music and activities for kids, and

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R  O R from there, we just built on that concept,” he says.

The most difficult part was choosing a name.

“For three weeks, we were calling it various names, trying them out and seeing how people liked them. We chose “Ballyhoo” because it didn’t focus on any one activity and yet we believed it was a name that encompassed the whole experience,” he says.

Time, temperature and place were also a consideration.

No other festivals are offered in the area the last weekend in June and the weather is generally mild. It’s a good chance to spotlight Davis Park and kick off the summer before the Fourth of July. If it rains, Ballyhoo will move indoors to the BMO Harris Bank Center.

The first festival is for the people of Rockford, by the people of Rockford, highlighting what is great about local food, talent, and entertainment, Flynn says.

“We just started reaching out to people and told them what we are doing and asking them if they want to be a part of it.

We chose food vendors carefully to give

a variety of foods while not duplicating offerings. The local musical talent is outstanding, and Rockford has a very active artistic scene. I look at Rockford and see it has so much going for it. It doesn’t take much to ignite a spark and Ballyhoo is meant to do that. We’re not asking for much, just that people have a great time by enjoying what Rockford has to offer.”

If proven successful, Ballyhoo will grow bigger and better each year. And at Davis Park, there’s room to grow.

Bordered by the Rock River and two major streets in downtown Rockford, Davis Park at Founders Landing marks the site where Rockford’s cultural and industrial heritage began. With seven acres of grass and paved walks, plus ample parking lots, Davis Park is host to many outdoor festivals, fairs and concerts.

“Davis Park is an interesting space, but we don’t get the traffic we’d like to see there,” Flynn says.

The park can handle about 10,000 people. Designed with big events in mind, tit’s in a scenic location along the Rock River, with walkways and quiet spaces for the public to enjoy every day.

It’s always a risk starting something new, but with careful planning and public support, the festival can grow into a summer tradition that will draw people and vendors from all over the Midwest and beyond, Flynn says.

“We hope to just break even this year and then we can go back to the drawing board to figure out what worked, what didn’t and what we can do better,” he says.

Tickets are available through Ticketmaster, on the BMO Harris Bank Center Facebook page, and can be picked up in person at the box office at 300 Elm St. or by calling (815) 968-5222 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. ❚

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Get In Quicker Convenient Care and Emergency Department Scheduling

RHSInQuicker.org

GO TO:

You can reserve your spot at one of four Convenient Care locations or the Rockford Memorial Hospital Emergency Department.  Fill out the online form.  Wait in the comfort of your home.  Arrive at your projected treatment time.

ROCKFORD HEALTH PHYSICIANS CONVENIENT CARE Rockford – 3401 N. Perryville Road M-F: 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. • Sat-Sun: Noon to 8 p.m.

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Belvidere – 1747 Henry Luckow Lane M-F: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. • Sat: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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EMERGENCY CARE - 24/7 Rockford Memorial Hospital Emergency Department • 2400 N. Rockton Avenue

If you have a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

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June 17

MEET ME AT THE MARKET! Fridays | May 22 – Oct 2 | Downtown Rockford 3:30 – 8:30 p.m. (3:30 – 7:30 p.m. after Labor Day)

rockfordcitymarket.com

Don’t miss the North End City Market!

Saturdays | May 16 – Oct 31 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Auburn & Main St. Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

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Y H

Know the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

By Craig Schmidt

“T

he silent killer” isn’t so quiet after all. Ovarian cancer has been called “the silent killer” because it was thought that there were no symptoms of the disease until the late stages, when chances of recovery were poor. But recent studies show that ovarian cancer does often produce identifiable symptoms, even in the early stages, when treatment is most effective.

That’s good news, because only 19 percent of ovarian cancers are currently found at an early stage, before they have spread, according to the American Cancer Society. As a result, ovarian cancer ranks fifth in cancer deaths among women. When ovarian cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, the survival rate is far better, with 93 percent of women living five years or more.* The following are the most common symptoms. See your doctor if they occur almost daily and last more than a few weeks.

Signs of Ovarian Cancer • Bloating • Pelvic or abdominal pain • Trouble eating or feeling full quickly • Urgent or frequent need to urinate

These symptoms are often caused by a variety of ailments less serious than ovarian cancer, but a visit to the doctor is in order to be sure. It pays to know your body and pay attention to anything unusual.

Talk to your doctor for more information about detecting ovarian cancer.

Beloit Health System’s OB/GYNs diagnose and treat disorders of the female reproductive system, as well as provide care during pregnancy and childbirth. To find an OB/GYN near you, call (608) 3628677. ❚ Source: Beloit Health System and *American Cancer Society,

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Rockford City Market Draws Large Crowds

By Rachel Shore

T

housands of local residents are enjoying Rockford City Market on Friday evenings in summertime. Located at the intersection of Water and Market streets, the event offers a wide variety of food options, local shops, kids’ activities and live music performances.

The weekly event began in 2010, in hopes of creating a positive experience in downtown Rockford and increasing visits to the beautiful area along the river.

“We also wanted to have a venue where entrepreneurs could incubate businesses by starting at a low cost, and it’s working,” says Cathy McDermott of the Rock River Development Partnership. “Six market vendors have opened their own storefronts, and many others have grown their businesses through catering and special orders.”

The sixth season started on May 22 with more than 8,000 visitors, and will run every Friday through Oct. 2, from 3:308:30 p.m. Thanks to a state grant, a new pavilion was added this year, covering about half of the vendors. The upgraded lighting, electricity and water supply have greatly benefited both the vendors and guests as well.

With so many food choices, visitors can stuff themselves with pizza, pasta, falafel, ice cream and more. Some of the vendors this year include Woodfire Brick Oven Pizza, Bamboo

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Asian Noodles & Tapas Bar and Zammuto’s. Local growers sell goods such as vegetables, fruits and flowers.

Musicians provide live entertainment throughout the night. Upcoming performances will featurer Jodi Beach, Vince Chiarelli, Kelly Steward and Starlite Radio.

Managed by the Rock River Development Partnership, the market has grown each year and now includes 65 unique vendors. During the 20 weeks of the 2014 season, 75,000 people attended the market. “It’s become a community gathering place every Friday night,” says McDermott. ❚

Y F

AE: The Spitfire Grill, A Musical Through June 28, check website for dates/times. In this tuneful tale, Percy Talbott, a young girl fresh out of prison, heads to the small town of Gilead, Wis., where she hopes to make a fresh start.

Recommended for middle school or older.

Artists’ Ensemble (AE), Cheek Theatre, Rockford University, 5050 E. State St., Rockford. Info: AE, (815) 394-5004, artistsensemble.org.

Starlight Theatre: Memphis June 17-20, July 22-26, 8 p.m.; June 20, 2 p.m. The story of DJ Huey Calhoun, a good ol’ boy with a passion for R&B music, and Felicia Farrell, an up-and-coming black singer who’s ready for her big break. RVC, Rockford, (815) 921-2160.

German Print Making June 18, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Join Midway Village Museum for a monthly hands-on workshop geared toward children ages 5-12, this month focused on Germany.

All materials included with regular museum admission. The workshops are open throughout the day and meet in the new Many Faces, One Community exhibit.

6799 Guildford Road, (815) 397-9112.

Midwayvillage.com.

Mason Rivers Country Band June 18, 7 p.m. This high-energy country band covers today’s favorites and many classics. Free. Sinnissippi Band Shell, Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. 2nd St., Rockford.

Rockfordparkdistrict.org.

Old Settlers Days June 18-21, Thu.-Fri. 4-11 p.m., Sat. 12:30-11 p.m., Sun. 1:30-9:30 p.m. Food vendors, beer tent. Sat. 5k run/walk; Sun. fireworks; live music including Thomas Rhett, Chase Rice, Big 7 Rich, Sam Hunt.

Settler’s Park, 200 Hawick St., Rockton.

(815) 206-8525, oldsettlersday.com.

Jurassic Park June 19, dusk. Steven Spielberg’s classic tale of an island inhabited by dinosaurs

run amok. Free. Friday Night Flix, Davis Park, 320 S. Wyman St., Rockford, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com.

E-I-E-I-O June 19, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Climb aboard the tractor and explore life on the farm at Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford. (815) 963-6769.

Owl Prowl June 19, 8 p.m. Look for and listen to owls on this night hike at Seward Bluffs Forest Preserve, 16999 Comly Road, Seward, Ill., (815) 335-2915, winnebagoforest.org.

Jazz on the Rock June 20, 7-11 p.m. This masqueradethemed event supports critical programs delivered by the Children Home + Aid Northern Region. $75 per ticket includes dinner, cash bar, live and silent auctions, more. Dance to After5 Jazz. Location: Rockford Country Club, 2500 Oxford St., Rockford. More info. at childrenshomeandaid.org/jazzontherock Garden Explorers Through Aug. 13, Thursdays 9-10 a.m.

A new interactive children’s program at Anderson Japanese Gardens features themed storytime at 9 a.m. and interactive programs. andersongardens.org.

June’s Got The Ca$h June 20, 7-9 p.m. Food and soft beverages for sale. Concerts on the Creek series. Free. Spring Creek United Church of Christ, 4500 Spring Creek Road, (815) 877-2576, ext. 103, springcreekucc.org.

Summer Gospel Jam June 20. This free, all-day multi-cultural event along Beloit’s riverfront will feature the Mississippi Mass Choir, which performed for Pope John Paul II in Italy.

Also church choirs, a gospel competition, activities for kids, Hispanic dancers, traditional African mask making, much more.

Bring blankets/chairs for lawn seating.

Learn more at visitbeloit.com.

The Beloit riverfront is the backdrop for Summer Gospel Jam on June 20.

“Songs from the Stage and Screen” June 23, 7 p.m. Free. Sinnissippi Band Shell, Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. 2nd St., Rockford. Rockfordparkdistrict.org.

You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown June 26 & 27, 7:30 p.m.; June 28 (Sunday), 2 p.m.; also Sat. 1 p.m. without dessert. Charlie, Lucy, Linus and the gang, presented by Players Dessert Theatre of Mighty Richland Players. 300 W. High St., Orangeville, Ill. (815) 819-1310.

Rock River Ballyhoo June 27, noon-9 p.m. Blues music, kids’ zone, vendors, car show. Davis Park, downtown Rockford. See cover story.

Family Nature Day June 27, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. See nature up close in 10 learning stations at Nygren Wetland Preserve. Free, but registration is required. Learn more at info@naturalland.org or call Natural Land Institute at (815) 964-6666. Event location: 3190 W. Rockton Road, Rockton, Ill. Historic Auto Attractions Open now through Labor Day, Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.; Sundays 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

See more than 75 historic autos displayed in 36,000 square feet at 13825 Metric Road, Roscoe, (815) 389-7917.

Wildflower Walkabouts Through June 23, 6 p.m. The Natural Land Institute (NLI) and Severson Dells Nature Center (SDNC) are leading weekly 90-minute guided hikes throughout the region. Learn more at (815) 964-6666, info@naturalland.org, naturalland.org or contact SDNC at (815) 335-2915, don@ seversondells.org or seversondells.com. ❚

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WDL

Restaurant of the Week

Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint Sizzles

By Paul Anthony Arco, senior staff writer

B

eloit’s rich history comes alive at Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint, 500 Pleasant St. “It’s a tribute to our city’s past and the industry leaders who created Beloit,” says Jayme Braasch, the restaurant’s general manager. “We want people to feel like they can really connect with Beloit.”

Named after Orson Merrill and George Houston, who founded Merrill & Houston Iron Works in 1858 (later Beloit Ironworks and eventually the Beloit Corporation), the restaurant itself is a tribute to the past.

The bar, for example, was constructed with wood gathered from a house that once stood on the property of the Iron Works.

Leather seats, hardwood floors and many historic photographs lining the walls give the space a vintage feel.

As the name implies, the restaurant features mouth-watering steaks along with a full-service menu of fish, chicken and

seafood. Specialties include seafood Alfredo, duck a l’orange, and broiled pike almondine, complemented by a toasted almond lemon butter. “We offer something for every customer,” says Braasch.

Steak cuts include rib-eye, porterhouse and New York strip, along with petite filet, Manhattan steak, and ribeye mignon. Half sizes are available.

All steaks are seasoned and topped with buttered mushrooms and crispy thin onion rings. And for an additional $7.95, each can be topped with crab, asparagus and Béarnaise, for a traditional Oscarstyle steak.

Merrill & Houston’s hosts many special occasions such as birthday parties, reunions and wedding receptions. The main dining room seats 120 and the banquet room can accommodate 200 guests.

(815) 877-0505. L T-F 11:30am-2pm, Sat 2:30pm; D M-Th 5-9:30pm, F-Sat 10:30pm, Sun 4:30-9:30pm. $$.

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Amici Italian Grill  Upscale-Casual/Authentic Italian. 5506 Clayton Circle, Roscoe, (815) 623-7171. LD Sun-Th 11am9pm, F-Sat 10-pm. $-$$.

Bravo Pizza  Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Rd., South Beloit, (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $.

Main Street Bistro  Upscale-Casual/Fine dining. Th&Sat. 109 S. Galena, Freeport, (815) 232-2322. M-Sat 2pm-midnight. $$.

Maciano’s Pizza & Pastaria  Casual. Beer/wine. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, (815) 963-7869. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $$.

Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint  Fine Dining. Ironworks Hotel, 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, Wis. (608) 313-0700. D Sun.Th 4:30-9pm, Fri-Sat. 10pm. $$.

Café Fromage  Casual/American. Regional foods. 431 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, (608) 312-2070. BrLD M-F 7am-6pm, SatNapoli Pizzeria III & Top Dollar Slots  Takeout/delivery.

Sun 8am-5pm. $.

6560 N. Alpine, Loves Park, (815) 877-9888. LD daily 11am.

Cannova’s Italian Cuisine  Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., Freeport, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. Pearl Bistro  Casual. Brick oven pizza, burgers, sandwiches, appetizers, steak, seafood, signature cocktails. 6876 Spring $-$$.

Creek, Rockford, (815) 654-3400. LD daily. $-$$.

Ciao Bella Ristorante  Upscale-Casual/Italian-American.

Extensive wine list; daily specials. 6500 E. Riverside, Loves Prairie Street Brewhouse  Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Park, (815) 654-9900. LD M-F 11am-9pm, Sat 5-9pm. $$.

Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$.

Costa’s Ristorante  Upscale-Casual. 133 Blackhawk Dr., BySisters Thai Café  Casual/Thai-Laotian. Authentic cuisine. ron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. Open daily 4pm. $-$$.

In Clock Tower Resort, 7801 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 229Dos Reales  Casual/Mexican. Authentic Mexican fare, 4545. L M-Sat 11am-2:30pm; D Sun-Th 5-9pm, Sat 10pm. $. lunch menu. 5855 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 227-4979. LD Tavern on Clark  Casual/American. 755 Clark Ave., RockSun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 10:30pm. $-$$. ford, (815) 708-7088. LD daily 10am. $-$$.

Giordano’s Famous Stuffed Pizza  Casual/Italian. Pick-up/ delivery. 333 Executive Pkwy., Rockford, Ill. (815) 398-5700. This Is It Eatery  Casual/American. 16 N. Chicago Ave., Freeport, (815) 616-5449. LD T-Th 11am-8pm, F-Sat 10pm. $.

LD Sun-Th 9am-11p.m; F-Sat to midnight. $.

JMK Nippon Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar  Upscale- Vito’s Ristorante  Casual/Authentic Italian. 1620 N. Bell Casual. Food cooked tableside. 2551 N. Perryville, Rockford, School Rd., Rockford, (815) 312-5080. LD T-Sat 11am. $$. ❚

Jayme Braasch

“Fine dining is alive and well, and continues to grow,” Braasch says. “As long as you have quality food, excellent service and a great atmosphere, you can’t go wrong. People want a nice night out. That’s never going to change.”

Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint is open daily at 4 p.m. ❚

In the Spotlight Alchemy

T

his trendy restaurant inside Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford, offers an out-of-the-ordinary experience in a big-city atmosphere.

“Alchemy has its own vibe and feel,” says Al Castrogiovanni, chef and founder. “I always had a vision and knew what I wanted to do. We do a lot of out-of-the-box thinking and customize everything.”

The full service bar features 36 craft beers on tap. Everything on the menu is made from scratch with fresh ingredients.

Pizzas made from handcrafted dough, with names like Chicago Dog and Thai Pie, are baked in a wood-fire oven. Classic fare includes pastas, soups, salads, burgers and sandwiches, all with a special twist, and daily specials.

Alchemy serves lunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Mon.-Fri.; and dinner 4-10 p.m. Mon.Thurs. and 4-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat. The bar is open later. ❚

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T  I

How To Keep Your Garbage Disposal Healthy

By Peggy Werner

A

garbage disposal is a great household helper, but you have to treat it well to remain good friends with it. If not cared for properly, disposals can clog and block drains, causing expensive repairs.

Garbage disposals are for leftover food scraps; they’re not meant to be used as garbage cans.

“The biggest mistake we see people making is putting too much food down the disposal at one time,” says Don Howe, licensed plumber and certified technician with Pearson, 2415 20th St., Rockford. “The food is ground up, but it gets clogged in the trap and causes a blockage.”

If you have a disposal, use it regularly to prevent rust build-up and corrosion, but use it correctly, he says.

“Always run cold water while grinding up food. This will cause grease and oil to solidify and be cut up before leaving the trap. After running the disposal, leave water running for about a minute to wash away any remaining particles,” he says.

It’s OK to grind up egg shells, small fruit pits and small chicken and fish bones; in fact this actually helps to clean the sides of the disposal. Once or twice a month, grind up some pieces of ice to help keep the blades sharp.

Regularly putting citrus peels through a disposal will help it to smell fresh. For stubborn odors, put baking soda into the drain and let it sit for several hours before running water and the disposal to flush it out.

Much of the time, when a garbage disposal doesn’t work, it just needs to be reset.

Most disposals have a red or black reset button. If pushing that button doesn’t fix the disposal, check for a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker. Most disposals also have a hand crank underneath that may be used to free up a stuck mechanism. ❚ For nearly 60 years, Pearson has served the Northern Illinois area. Pearson offers Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning, Pest Control, Remodeling and other services.

Call Pearson at (815) 398-8312, or visit PearsonGuy.com or Facebook.

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Rockford Vintage Market Debuts June 20

By Rachel Shore

A

fter noticing the successful impact a vintage market made on a community in Michigan, the Rock River Development Partnership decided to establish one in Rockford this year.

“We know that there is quite a following in the area for vintage and antique goods,” says Cathy McDermott of the Rock River Development Partnership.

“We thought that offering the Rockford Vintage Market would fill a niche in the community.”

With free admission, this event is offered the third Saturday of each summer month, June 20, July 18 and Aug. 15, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s located in the same place as the Rockford City Market, at the intersection of Water and Market streets downtown.

“We wanted to try something different on Saturdays, in addition to the Rockford City Market on Friday nights,” McDermott says.

Two vintage shops in the area, Salvaged by Sonya and The Bee’s Knees General Store, will help to organize and promote attendance for this market. Many other businesses will join them at each event, selling vintage and antique products. Some of the other vendors at this market are Stitches in Time, Pickadilly Boutique, Redesigned Relics and Musser Antiques.

The local band Swingbilly RFD will provide live entertainment at each event. Food and beverages will be available for purchase, from Big Papas BBQ, Fork & Stein, Rockford Brewing Company and more.

“Rockford Vintage Market offers a different shopping experience for those interested in vintage, repurposed and antique goods,” says McDermott.

“We hope to create a monthly Saturday opportunity that will bring visitors downtown to shop for vintage items, as they enjoy the local restaurants and businesses in the area.”

For more information, visit rockfordvintagemarket.com or facebook. com/RockfordVintageMarket. ❚

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