Smart Living Weekly - May 25, 2016

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Right in Our Region

50th Starlight Season Features Favorites

By Toni Rocha

T

he 50th season of Starlight Theatre at Rock Valley College brings back three

By Sarah Soenke, deputy editor of the most popular shows ever performed here but also kicks off with something fresh – a new production of Ian Fleming’s “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.” Favorites “Jesus Christ Superstar,” “Phantom of the Opera” and

“Children of Eden” will follow.

Starlight Executive Director Mike Webb says he chose “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” because it was family-friendly and “Phantom of the Opera” because it was previously the bestattended of all Starlight’s productions.

Continued on p. 22

Best of Life Information for Our Region’s Residents & Visitors

Proudly Serving the Needs of 326,000 Neighbors - For Your Home, Health & Fun! 2016 at Anderson Japanese Gardens • Protect Your Cell Phone Screen • Summery Grape Recipes How to Deal with Fleas and Ticks • Why Use an Outpatient Surgery Center? • Light Your Home Properly

Smart Living Weekly

Issue 1

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Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • May 25, 2016

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Issue 1

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Rockford, Illinois, is filled with Delicious Destinations that make it a can’t-miss culinary adventure. An impressive list of local chefs have been delighting diners and diverse palates for years. They know that to get the best tasting creations, fresh food is better and that farmers are a chef’s best friend.

Whether you are grabbing some of the best burgers of your life from 15th & Chris, sampling the Real. Orignal. granita from Zammuto’s, trying the latest trends and fusion foods at Alchemy or having a pint of the “beer that made Milwaukee jealous,” the Nikelob, at Prairie Street Brewhouse, you’ll be In Good Company when you pull up a chair at our table – and you will be glad you did.

Smart Living Weekly @gorockford | #gorockford | gorockford.com

May 25

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region .........................Cover & p. 22 Starlight’s 50th Season Your Home ................................................... ..... 11 Lighting Your Home Inspiration & Worship .......................................12 Eyes Opened Your Kitchen ......................................................15 Cooking with Grapes Your Outings ...................................................... 17 City Market, Farmers Markets Your Health .............................................. .......... 25 Surgery Outpatient Options Your Outings ...................................................... 26 Anderson Japanese Gardens Your Fun .................................................... ......... 27

Dining Locally ........................................... ........ 28

Outdoor Living ................................................ ..29 New Tools Make Lawn Care Easier Your Technology .............................................. ..33 Shattered Cell Phone? Help is Here

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Janine Pumilia Deputy Editor Sarah Soenke Assistant Editor Lindsey Gapen Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Ryan Contributing Writers Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes General Manager/Northwest Business Magazine Dave Marino Account Executives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Website www.NWQSmartLiving.com Published by Hughes Media Corp.

222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 (815) 316-2300, Fax: (815) 316-2301 lhughes@northwestquarterly.com Smart Living Weekly.

Copyright 2016 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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May 25 To advertise call 815-316-2300

A Tourist Town I

t looks like we’re grasping the idea that our hometown region is a tourism destination. Some 97 percent of respondents believe tourism is “very important” or “important” to our regional economy, according to a recent survey conducted by the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford.

And indeed it is very important. That’s why we’re writing about our visitor attractions more than ever, these days, in Smart Living Weekly. Surprisingly, many residents have yet to discover the gems that out-oftowners know about.

Visitors spent $340 million here in 2014, generating $5.57 million in local tax receipts, says the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. That’s money you and I don’t have to supply through our property tax bills.

And some of what we do support with our taxes is paying strong dividends.

In particular, the Rockford Park District’s Sportscore complexes, along with the Indoor Sports Center, drew 2.8 million visits in 2014.

Rock Cut State Park, park district-owned ice facilities, BMO Harris Bank Center (including the IceHogs) and the Forest Hills baseball complex attracted the most visitors in 2014.

Expect tourism receipts to keep growing.

The park district’s new Sports Factory will draw thousands downtown when it opens this summer; two new downtown hotels are moving forward; and 124-acre Sportscore Two is under construction on East Riverside Blvd.

We’re establishing our region as the premier amateur sports center of the Midwest.

Visitors also love places like Anderson Japanese Gardens, Klehm Arboretum, our museums, Starlight and Coronado theaters, Magic Waters, RSO ...

When we read the sponsor lists on the beautification projects, special events and other things that are adding to Rockford’s renaissance, we notice it’s not the national chain stores that care whether or not Rockford improves. It’s the locally owned businesses.

By helping them to thrive, we help our community to thrive. We also keep more money circulating locally.

It looks like another beautiful week coming up: Get out and enjoy what your city has to offer! ❚ Janine Pumilia Executive Editor

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May 25 To advertise call 815-316-2300

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May 25

Y H  G

Lighting Gallery Offers ‘Jewelry for the Home’

By Lindsey Gapen

P

roper lighting plays an important role in the aesthetics of a home. In fact, lighting department manager Michael McGinty from Benson Stone Co., 1100 Eleventh St., Rockford, refers to lighting as “jewelry for the home.”

“You can spend a lot of money on paint, flooring, cabinets and furniture, but if your home is poorly lit, it will never look its best,” McGinty says.

“Proper lighting is essential for a beautiful and functional home.”

Staff members at Benson Stone Co. can assist you in picking out the proper lighting for your home. The expansive new lighting department on the fourth floor showcases chandeliers, pendant lights, wall sconces, floor lamps, outdoor fixtures, landscape lighting and more.

There’s a lighting style for everyone, from traditional to contemporary.

“Crystal is making a big comeback,” McGinty says. “It’s not your grandmother’s crystal chandelier anymore – we’re seeing a lot of contemporary pieces that I’ll call ‘lightly dressed.’ It’s not a heavy crystal piece, but it has a little accent of crystal on it.”

And there are other trends.

“On the opposite side of the spectrum, people are choosing the reclaimed urban-warehouse style,” says store owner Andy Benson. “You’ll see a lot of these Edison-style bulbs for a more industrial look.”

Benson Stone Co.’s showroom is organized around the style and finish of the fixture. Lights of all sizes and price ranges are available.

“Customers have a lot of options here,” Benson says. “I think this showroom helps to emphasize, more than ever

before, that we are a one-stop shop. You can discover a full breadth of products here. It’s convenient to be able to find the right lighting to go with your new kitchen, sofa or dining room table all right here in one store.” ❚

Get SLW Home & Garden articles every week. Visit NWQSmartLiving. com and start your e-Edition today.

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May 25

11

I  W

Eyes Opened O

ne of the most interesting incidents in scripture occured during the 50 days between Easter and Pentacost, when a rather sly resurrected Christ appeared to two men who were walking to a village called Emmaus, near Jerusalem. Luke 24, verses 13-35 (NIV):

“As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them, but they were kept from recognizing him. He asked them, ‘What are you discussing together as you walk along?’

They stood still, their faces downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, ‘Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who doesn’t know the things that have happened there in these days?’

‘What things?’ he asked.

‘About Jesus of Nazareth,’ they replied.

‘He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning but didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they didn’t see Jesus.’

He said to them, ‘How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?’

And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.”

Can you imagine it? Jesus himself taught these men scripture from beginning to end, pointing out what Old Testament prophets had to say about him. In response, the men invite him to supper.

“When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, ‘Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?’”

More than 2,000 years later, the Messiah still reveals himself to those who have eyes to see and ears to hear. ❚ – Janine Pumilia

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one, from traditional to contemporary. more.

room helps to emphasize, more than ever home office and basement.

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Y K

Simply Sweet Summer Entertaining L

ight, refreshing flavors are the perfect solution for a summer meal. As temperatures heat up, take your summer entertaining to the next level with a secret ingredient that is as pretty as it is tasty.

Alone or in a recipe, grapes from California are a deliciously healthy way to bring refreshing flavor to the summertime table. You may be surprised by all of the combinations of flavors and textures you can achieve, from main dishes to sides and even desserts.

Impress your guests with this mouthwatering lineup featuring grapes with a grilled flank steak and an unexpectedly sweet but savory sorbet.

Grilled Flank Steak with Grapes and Stilton Serves: 6

Ingredients:

• 1 flank steak (2 pounds) • kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper • 1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar • 1 tablespoon chopped shallot • 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil • 2 bunches (8 cups) watercress, trimmed • 1/2 cup crumbled Stilton or other blue cheese • 2 cups red California grapes, halved

Savory Black Grape Sorbet Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds (4 cups) black California seedless grapes, washed and stemmed • 1/4 cup sugar • 2 tablespoons vodka • 2 tablespoons lemon juice • 8 large basil leaves • pinch of salt

Directions: In food processor or blender, puree grapes and sugar until smooth. Pour into small saucepan and bring to boil over high heat.

Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until reduced by about one-third, about 15 minutes. Stir in vodka, lemon juice, basil and salt then cool to room temperature.

Pour mixture into shallow pan and freeze until hard, 3-4 hours. Transfer to food processor or blender and process until smooth and creamy, and lightened in color. Serve immediately. ❚ -- Source: Family Features

Directions: Heat grill to high and oil grates. Sprinkle steak with salt and pepper.

In small blender or food processor, combine vinegar, shallot, mustard and olive oil to make dressing. Season with salt and pepper, and puree until smooth.

Grill steak until it reaches 130 F for medium-rare, about 6-7 minutes per side.

Transfer to cutting board and let rest 5 minutes.

In large bowl, combine watercress, salt, pepper and enough dressing to coat.

Thinly slice steak across the grain and transfer to platter. Top with watercress, Stilton and grapes, and serve with additional dressing.

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Y O

City Market, North End Market Thriving L

ast Friday was a beautiful evening for Rockford City Market-goers along the Rock River in downtown Rockford.

Children played in the public spaces as their parents and grandparents laughed with friends, listened to live music and perused the maze of vendor tents, sniffing the delectable scents of cooking food.

The market takes place every Friday during the summer months along Water Street between State and Jefferson streets.

Local growers and vendors sell natural products like vegetables, fruits, eggs, meats, cheeses, flowers, herbs, baked goods, wine and healthy snacks.

Artisans sell their wares, too. Most vendors and performers come from a 150-mile radius, ensuring locally grown produce and unique retail items.

A beer garden with live music takes place on the terrace overlooking the market. There are demonstrations and kids’ activities to ensure fun and interactive learning for the younger crowd.

Rockford City Market first opened in June 2010, welcoming nearly 1,000 visitors including families, young professionals, kids and seniors.

By the end of the third season nearly 60,000 visitors and 70 vendors took part.

The Rockford City Market is managed by the Rock River Development Partnership and operates with infrastructure support from the City of Rockford and marketing from the Rockford Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau.

North End City Market The North End City Market is located at the southeast corner of the intersection of

North Main and Auburn streets Saturday mornings through Oct. 29, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

The North End Commons Farmers Market has been a weekly tradition for the people of the North End for many years. In 2015, the Rockford City Market team began managing the North End City Market in the same intersection but moved it across the street for better visibility.

The North End City Market is full of fresh, local products and food and is a nice place for the community to gather to shop, eat, and socialize. ❚

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May 25

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21

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Starlight Continued from Cover

“We’re repeating ‘Children of Eden,’ which we presented the American premiere of in 1997,” Webb adds. “I heard a recording of the music from this play and fell in love with the title song.”

The 50th season promises to be as enchanting as the theater housing it. Starlight has a one-of-a-kind operable roof that opens to the twilight sky on fair summer evenings. It also draws top-notch volunteer musicians and performers year after year, which frees Webb’s budget for the other expenses that operating a theater entails. While the severe state budget crises is certainly impacting the Rock Valley College theater program, the 50th season will dazzle because of its committed volunteers.

The following are descriptions of each musical offered by Starlight.

“Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” (June

22

Smart Living Weekly

8-11 & July 6-10), is a stage musical based on the 1968 film produced by Albert R. Broccoli, which was inspired by the novel “Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang: The Magical Car,” written by “James Bond” author Ian Fleming for his son.

(The Broccoli family also produced all the Bond films.) The Sherman Brothers, of “Mary Poppins” fame, wrote the score.

The story is about an out-of-thisworld car that flies through the air and sails the seas. An eccentric inventor, Caractacus Potts, sets about restoring an old race car from a scrap heap with the help of his children Jeremy and Jemima. They soon discover the car has magical properties including the ability to take flight.

Trouble occurs when the evil Baron Bomburst desires the magic car for himself.

“Jesus Christ Superstar” (June 1518 & July 13-17) was created as a concept album at the end of the turbulent 1960s and has, at its center, a social and political rebel. Jesus’ meteor-like rise provides, as the title suggests, a parallel to

May 25 To advertise call 815-316-2300

contemporary celebrity worship.

As Jesus’ radical teachings are evermore embraced, Judas increasingly questions the enlightened motives of this new prophet, resulting in betrayal. Christ’s final days are dramatized with emotional intensity, thought-provoking edge and explosive theatricality. Propelled by a stirring score composed by Sir Andrew

R  O R

(Starlight Theatre photos)

Lloyd Weber, with lyrics by Tim Rice, this musical is both driving and majestic, satirical and tender; it illuminates the transcendent power of the human spirit with a passion that goes straight to the heart.

“The Phantom of the Opera” (June 22-25 & July 20-24) is composed by Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, with lyrics by

Charles Hart and Richard Leroux. Inspired by the classic Gaston Leroux novel, “Phantom of the Opera” tells the story of a masked figure who lurks beneath the catacombs of the Paris Opera House, exercising a reign of terror over all who inhabit it. He falls madly in love with an innocent young soprano, Christine, and devotes himself to nurturing her extraordinary talents and making her a new star. In the process, he employs many devious methods. The sensational score includes “Think of Me,” “Angel of Music,” “Music of the Night,” “All I Ask of You,” “Masquerade” and the title song.

“Children of Eden” (June 29-July 2 & July 2731) is based on the Biblical story of Genesis. From musical theater greats Stephen Schwartz and John Caird comes a joyous and

inspirational musical about parents, children and faith ... not to mention centuries of unresolved family business. This is an expansive and ambitious musical. Adam, Eve, Noah and the “Father” who created them deal with the headstrong, cataclysmic actions of their respective children.

The show ultimately delivers a bittersweet but inspiring message: that “the hardest part of love ... is letting go.”

A large cast is needed to take on the story of the Old Testament in this moving, foot-stomping musical. “Children of Eden” is a wonderful show for faithbased groups looking for a large-scaled pageant with sweeping music.

Single and season tickets are available through the Starlight Theater box office either by phone or online. Tickets are $30 for adults and $29 for students/ seniors and can be purchased in advance by calling (815) 921-2160 or online at rvcstarlight.com. Season tickets are also on sale for $75 for adults and $65 for students/seniors. ❚

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May 25

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The Benefits of an Outpatient Surgery Center I

t’s difficult to predict the future of U.S. health care, given the rapidly changing marketplace. However, a high-quality, low-cost provider is in the best position to thrive. Superior, affordable health services translate into satisfied patients – the goal of Rockford Ambulatory Surgery Center (RASC).

Since 1994, the outpatient surgery center’s founders sought to give area residents an alternative choice to expensive in-hospital, one-day surgical care.

“Smart consumers want out-ofpocket expenses at the bare minimum,” observes CEO/Administrator Dr. Steve Gunderson. “We offer advances that reduce recovery time and provide services at the lowest cost Dr. Steve Gunderson

to patients in most instances. That’s a powerful combination.”

From its location at 1016 Featherstone Road on Rockford’s east side, RASC has performed more than 90,000 procedures in the past 20 years. The center’s multiple specialties include ear, nose and throat, general surgery, orthopedic, gynecologic, ophthalmology, pain management and podiatric surgery.

“We have a great, mature group of surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses and technicians who’ve served the community for years,” Gunderson notes.

The facility features five operating rooms, a large recovery area and two waiting rooms. Unlike hospitals, which have high capital, operating and maintenance costs, RASC enjoys a low overhead that saves patients money.

Visitors experience many comforts, such as a cozy fireplace, Wi-Fi, television and complimentary beverages. To younger and older patients alike, the atmosphere

is warm and friendly. Convenience is one reason why RASC consistently earns a near-perfect patient satisfaction rating.

“Most people want to spend as little time as possible in a health care setting,” Gunderson says. “We encourage family members to stay with patients until they are taken to the operating room and to be present when patients awaken. This creates a more relaxing environment.”

Excellent care remains the distinguishing characteristic after two decades.

The center meets standards set by the Center for Medicare Services and the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, and strictly adheres to established protocols.

“Satisfied patients’ word of mouth is our best marketing tool,” says Gunderson. “Our staff members deliver the best outpatient care available and a level of safety that’s as high as in any hospital and an infection rate that’s much lower.” ❚ (Source: Rockford Ambulatory Surgery Center)

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Y O

Enjoy Anderson Japanese Gardens this Season nderson Japanese Gardens (AJG), 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, is open daily through the end of October.

Inspired by calm and tranquility, this 12-acre garden is comprised of koifilled ponds, winding pathways, gentle streams, plunging waterfalls, raked gravel gardens, beautifully trained pines and much more. Master craftsmanship and 16th century traditional architecture are found throughout.

Fresco at the Gardens, owned and operated by Franchesco’s Ristorante, offers a diverse menu made from locally sourced ingredients. Fresco is open Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and weekends 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

There are several special events and programs scheduled at the gardens. Here are a few.

• AJG’s popular Tuesday Evening in the Gardens music series begins May 31 with Edward David Anderson of Bloomington, Ill., and Andy Frasco of Los Angeles. Find a downloadable

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schedule of 2016 performances under the events tab at the website.

The concerts are included with regular admission cost.

Concerts begin at 5:45 p.m.; guests may set up picnic areas starting at 5 p.m. Off-site parking with shuttle service is available at the University of Illinois College of Medicine on Parkview Avenue. Food and beverages may be purchased from Woodfire Pizza, DiTullio’s Italian Deli, Zammuto’s and Fresco at the Garden. Carry-in suppers are fine, but no carry-in beverages.

• The Japanese Summer Festival is a two-day celebration of traditional cultural arts on July 30 & 31, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It includes exhibits, demonstrations and unique performances that appeal to all age groups and help to foster a better understanding of the Japanese culture.

• New to the garden this year is a children’s music series with nationally renowned performers.

(David Anderson photo)

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May 25 To advertise call 815-316-2300

• Also new is Strings on Sunday, a late afternoon picnic series that includes a mix of pop favorites, blue grass and classical selections performed by the Turtle Creek Chamber Orchestra.

Enjoy the gardens Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and weekends 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Garden admission is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors 62 and over, $6 for students and free to children under age 5. Or, become a member and come and go without admission.

Learn more about egarden membership, at andersongardens.org. ❚

Y F Autumn just might be the best time of year. The sun is a little lower (and prettier), the air is a little crisper (and cleaner) and the leaves cascade down in colorful splendor. This fall, spend some quality time in the fun, nearby, value-packed Rockford Region. See stunning fall colors at

Real. Original.

SM

Anderson Japanese Gardens, the finest in North America. Visit beautifully spacious Rock Cut State Park. Don’t miss Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, with more than 500 different species of trees, shrubs and vines, all

ILLINOIS, USA

glowing in autumn’s glory. Indoors, our concert and theater season will be gaining momentum at Coronado Performing Arts Center, a beautifully restored downtown vaudeville house. Plus, our Riverfront Museum Campus will be coming alive for the whole family. Visit gorockford.com today for a full list of autumn special events, festivals, gardens, golf and more.

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau NWQ_fall.indd 1

102 N. Main St.

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Tourism

Attractions & Events

Stephen Warde Anderson Exhibit Thru May 30, recurring daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Rockford Art Museum (RAM) presents The Wonderful of Stephen Warde Anderson Rockford, IL 61101 World 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com exhibition. RAM, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-2787, rockfordartmuseum.org.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

LEGO Exhibit Thru June 19, Tues.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. & Sun. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Come see LEGO sculptures and colorful LEGO bricks set among tropical plants. Nicholas Conservatory &Gardens, 1354 N. 2nd St., Rockford, (815) 987-8858, rockfordparkdistrict.org.

Rocktown Adventures: Kayak Trip May 27, 3:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Start the holiday weekend off right and explore the Kishwaukee River. This entry level paddle trip includes 30 minutes of dry land instruction and fitting, followed by a launch and paddle down to Atwood Park. Espenscheid Forest Preserve, 4800 S. Perryville Road, Cherry Valley, Ill., (815) 636-9066, rocktownadventures.com.

Young At Heart Festival May 27-May 30. Enjoy live music, a beer garden, carnival rides, kids’ activities and food.

Full schedule of events and performances on website. Loves Park City Hall Grounds, 100 Heart Blvd., Loves Park, Ill., (815) 633-3999, youngatheartfestival.com.

Crooked River 5K Walk/Run May 28, 8 a.m. 5K walk/run; 9 a.m. halfmile kids fun run. Awards are given to overall female and male and top three in age divisions.

Pecatonica Library, 400 W. 11th St., Pecatonica, Ill., runsignup.com.

Rockford Color Vibe 5k Run May 28, 9 a.m. Get ready for a colorful, fun-filled day. Get blasted with color while you run a 3.1mile route. Boone County Fairgrounds, 8791 Illinois Rt. 76, Belvidere, Ill., thecolorvibe.com/ Rockford.php.

Let's Pack a Picnic May 28, 11 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Attend Rockford Public Library's storytime and plan a pretend picnic, share story books with friends and make a craft. Main Library, Little Theatre, 215 N. Wyman St., Rockford, (815) 965-7606, rockfordpubliclibrary.org.

Enjoy the annual Young at Heart Festival and Parade in Loves Park May 27-30.

Magic Waters Opening Weekend May 28-30, Sat.-Mon. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Magic Waters Waterpark kicks off the season Memorial Day Weekend. 7820 Cherryvale N. Blvd., (815) 966-2442, magicwaterswaterpark.com.

Concerts on the Creek May 28, 7 p.m. Enjoy live music. Concessions available. Spring Creek UCC Auditorium, 4500 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 877-2576, springcreekucc.org/#!concerts-on-the-creek/cecg.

Country Roads Invitational Bike Ride May 28-29, Sat. & Sun. registration 7-10 a.m.

The 40th annual Blackhawk Country Roads Invitational Ride features four routes and concessions. Greater Rockton Centre, 302 W. Main St., Rockton, Ill., blackhawkbicycleclub.org.

NASCAR Military Appreciation Night May 28, 7 p.m., gates 5 p.m. All current or former Military members with Military ID $5. Rockford Speedway, 9572 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park, Ill., (815) 633-1500, rockfordspeedway.com.

WWE Smackdown May 31, 7 p.m. Watch WWE Superstars during the Mega 10 Man Tag Team Main Event. BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford, (815) 968-5222, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com.

Down Peony Lane with Roy Klehm June 1, 6:30 p.m. Roy Klehm covers all gardening aspects of Woody and Herbaceous Peonies, as well as Intersectionals. Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, Rockford, (815) 965-8146, Klehm.org. ❚

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May 25

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Restaurant of the Week

Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint Sizzles

By Paul Anthony Arco

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.

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

Cannova’s Italian Cuisine E Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., Freeport, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. $-$$.

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

Extensive wine list; daily specials. 6500 E. Riverside, Loves Park, (815) 654-9900. LD M-F 11am-9pm, Sat 5-9pm, Sun 4-7:30pm.

Costa’s Ristorante E Upscale-Casual. 133 Blackhawk Dr., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. Open daily 4pm. $-$$.

Dos Reales E Casual/Mexican. Authentic Mexican fare, lunch menu. 5855 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 227-4979. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 10:30pm. $-$$.

Giordano’s Famous Stuffed Pizza E Casual/Italian. Pick-up/ delivery. 333 Executive Pkwy., Rockford, Ill. (815) 398-5700.

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

JMK Nippon Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar E UpscaleCasual. Food cooked tableside. 2551 N. Perryville, Rockford, (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. $$.

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“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

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Authentic Fresh Mexican. 107 W. Main St., Poplar Grove, Ill., (815) 765-1144.

LD M 11am-8pm; Tue-Th 11am-9pm; Fri 11am-10pm; Sun noon-8pm. $.

Jayme Braasch

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

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

Maxson Riverside Restaurant E Casual/American. 1469 IL Route 2, Oregon, Ill., (800) 468-4222. LD M-Sat 11am-8pm, Br Sun 10am-3pm. $$.

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

Napoli Pizzeria III & Top Dollar Slots E Takeout/delivery.

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

Prairie Street Brewhouse E Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$.

Tavern on Clark E Casual/American. 755 Clark Ave., Rockford, (815) 708-7088. LD daily 10am. $-$$.

Thrive Café E Healthful, fresh salads, wraps, sandwiches, smoothies and cold-pressed juices. Inside Peak Fitness, 4401 Peak Drive, Loves Park. 6 am-8 pm Mon-Fri.; 8 am-2 pm Sat.; Closed Sundays.

This Is It Eatery E Casual/American. 16 N. Chicago Ave., Freeport, (815) 616-5449. LD T-Th 11am-8pm, F-Sat 10pm. $. ❚

May 25

Olympic Tavern

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his family-owned restaurant, at 2327 N. Main St., has been a Rockford icon for 70 years, changing with the times, yet always giving the public what they want.

“Our business is about hospitality and making people feel welcomed,” says Zak Rotello, the third generation of his family to work in the restaurant.

The full service bar, which was remodeled, updated and expanded about three years ago, features a beer menu of 28 craft brews on tap, which changes daily.

The Olympic is also about great food and friendly service. Daily specials, $14$19, are seasonal items not normally on the menu. Monday is burger night, with a half-pound burger and fries for $5, and Friday night is the $12 fish fry.

Olympic hosts private events and offers patio dining seasonally. The kitchen is open Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m.-midnight. The bar is open later. ❚

O L

New Tools Make Lawn Care Easier

By Peggy Werner

I

f you’re looking for quality products to manage the care and feeding of your lawn, the experts at Cherry Valley Landscape Center, 7711 Newburg Road, can help.

The family-owned business was in the landscaping and snow removal business for 16 years before it opened a “one stop shop” in 2010 that caters to landscape companies and contractors but also offers a wide variety of products to homeowners.

One of the newest items on the showroom floor is the Hustler Raptor Flip-up zero-turn riding lawn mower. At the push of a button, the front deck can be raised and lowered for easy cleaning and blade changing.

“This technology is revolutionary, when it comes to what’s new in mowing equipment,” says Rob Johnson, sales manager at Cherry Valley Landscape Center.

“It’s especially nice for maintaining the mower and less storage space is needed.”

When purchasing a mower, the size of the lawn determines the size of the lawn mower needed; quality of cut, comfort, durability and price range figure into the equation, too, he says.

In addition to lawn care equipment, Cherry Valley Landscape Center sells snow removal equipment, salt spreaders, landscape materials, premium hardwood

mulch, colored mulch, stone, fertilizer, grass seed, ice melt products and Unilock paver and wall system products. It also runs a full-service small engine parts and repair shop and will work on most brands of equipment, including snow plows.

Ever introducing new lines of product, the business recently added TruckCraft, WeatherGuard and Buyers truck accessories to its showroom. For more information, contact Cherry Valley Landscape Center at (815) 977-5268. ■

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May 25 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Pricing Selling The Most Powerful Tool For Buying Your Next Home The Gambino Realtors Mobile App! Access to the most comprehensive and accurate real estate listings is now at your fingertips.

Download it today from the App Store!

Type in Gambino Realtors and download.

1.815.282.2222

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e-Subscribe to Smart Living Weekly Now! You Will Be Automatically Entered into This Week’s Giveaway!

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Enter This Week’s Giveaway, and Receive Smart Living Every Week For FREE! E-Subscribers: Click Here Now to Enter This Week’s Giveaway.

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May 25 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Y T

Broken Cell Phone Screen? Here’s Help

By Peggy Werner

O

h no! It happened again. You dropped your cell phone and find yourself looking at your apps through a shattered glass screen.

One of the quickest and most inexpensive ways to get help is at Batteries Plus Bulbs, 1825 S. Perryville Road in Rockford.

“Cell phone screens break so easily. We’re all rough on stuff and we live in a throw-away society.

If we can keep our products longer with some easy changes, it just makes sense,” says Ashley Beto, commercial sales representative for Batteries Plus Bulbs. Her family also owns stores in Loves Park and Sycamore, and plans to open a fourth store in LaSalle-Peru later this year.

Batteries Plus Bulbs can replace the cell phone screen while you wait. Other options are available if you have insur-

ance on your phone or if the phone is still under warranty.

Trained technicians can install replacement batteries and repair and replace buttons, ports, speakers, headphone jacks, cameras and more on most

smart phones, tablets and MP3 players.

For those who want to think ahead and prevent problems from happening, Simple Snap is a brand name of a thin layer of tempered glass that peels off and onto your phone to protect the glass screen.

“I learned about this product when I was at a convention,” says Beto. “The person demonstrating took a hammer to the cell phone and only the tempered glass broke.”

Otter boxes and other covers and cases provide a wide range of levels of protection for your phone. One of the newest items in the store is a waterproof bag that holds a cell phone, protecting it from rainy days and splashing water at the pool. ❚

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