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Special Tourism Issue: Welcome to Our Region!
n iving g Sm mart a L ivi ivin ng ma Weekly See Inside for Tourism Attractions, Events, Entertainment, Dining & More
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Right in Our Region
Rotary Dedicates Labyrinth for 100th By Peggy Werner
O
ne hundred years ago on June 15, a group of Rockford businessmen, most residing on the city’s west side, penned the Rockford Rotary Club into existence. It was 243rd club chartered in the international organization, which then involved three countries. Today there are more than 32,000 clubs in 200 countries, all dedicated to doing good things at home and abroad.
The club will celebrate its anniversary on Wednesday, June 15, at 4 p.m., with the public dedication of a Rotary Labyrinth on the corner of West State and Avon streets. This gift to the community is 24 feet wide, with an 8-footwide granite medallion featuring the “Service Above Self” Rotary motto at the center. It’s landscaped with plants, lights and benches. 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! How to Choose a Mattress • Dining at Dos Reales • Discounts on LED Bulbs Heritage Days in Belvidere • Swedish Days in Rockford • Ethnic Dining at Midway Village
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Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • June 8, 2016
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In This Issue
Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 22 Rockford Rotary Turns 100 Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 How to Choose a Mattress Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Got Prayer? Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Tasty Ways to Stay Hydrated Outdoor Living ............................................ ....17 Lawn Tips Your Health .............................................. .......... 25 Sensible Weight Loss Your Fun .................................................... ......... 27 Your Outings ............................................... 29-31 Heritage Days, Swedish Days, Bow Tie March
Dining Locally ........................................... ........ 29
Your Technology .............................................. 33 Save Money on Energy-EfďŹ cient Lightbulbs
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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‘This is Rockford?’
M
uch as Beloit has done a “worst to first” turnaround in recent history, Rockford is surprising visitors with its transformation and wide array of attractions and events. Some 97 percent of us believe tourism is “very important” or “important” to our regional economy, according to a recent survey. We at Smart Living Weekly agree. That’s why we’re writing about our visitor attractions more than ever these days. Surprisingly, many residents have yet to discover the gems here that out-oftowners already know about. Visitors spent $340 million here in 2014, generating $5.57 million in local tax receipts, the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau tells us. That’s money for public services that you and I don’t have to supply through our property tax bills. And some of what we do support with our taxes is really paying strong dividends today. 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. Tourism receipts are expected to keep growing. The park district’s new Sports Factory will draw thousands downtown 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. Many, many good things are happening in Rockford. Efforts by all kinds of people are adding up. We note that it’s the locally owned businesses that are sponsoring many of the projects and events that are lifting up our community. They care about the Rockford, Ill., region. Big-box stores and other national businesses do not. Please keep that in mind the next time you go shopping, dining out, banking or anything else that can be handled by a local business. By helping local folks to thrive, we help our community to thrive and can say with growing confidence: Welcome to Rockford! ❚ Janine Pumilia Executive Editor
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How to Choose a Mattress
Y H G
By Janine Pumilia, managing editor
H
ave you ever wandered through a sea of mattresses and felt overwhelmed by all the choices? As store manager of the new 6651 E. State St. location of Gustafson’s Furniture & Mattress, Mitchell Johnson knows it happens. Over the decades, he has matched thousands of customers to thousands of mattresses. “Every mattress is a white rectangle, so how do you tell them apart?” he says. “I advise people to buy the best you can afford and to buy for comfort, not durability.” There’s simply no such thing as a mattress that will last 20 years, at any price point, says Johnson, so don’t believe a sales pitch that says otherwise. “Think of a mattress as you would a car tire. Buy it, use it, replace it when it wears out. Eight to 10 years is the best you can expect from any mattress.”
Today’s mattresses use memory foam, gel and other technologies to provide superb body support. There’s no one mattress that’s right for everyone. “You really have to lay on a mattress to figure out what feels good to you,” says Johnson. He recently helped to design a new tool developed by the Dr. Scholls company that will help customers nationwide to better understand their mattress preferences. Customers will spend seven minutes lying on a specially equipped mattress. As various adjustments are made, they’ll rate their comfort levels. When done, they receive a recommendation for one of five categories of mattresses that best suits their tastes. “It’s a state-of-the-art tool that will eliminate a lot of the guesswork,” says Johnson. Gustafson’s is one of only 10 stores nationwide that will receive the new tool this spring.
Both locations of Gustafson’s Furniture & Mattress offer mattresses by Tempur-Pedic, Serta, Mattress 1st, Aireloom and more.
Along with good support, many people want a bed they can adjust. “Millennials like to sit up in bed and work on laptops, etc., and older people have always valued adjustable beds,” Johnson explains. The original store is located at 808 W. Riverside Blvd., Rockford. ❚
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I W
Got Prayer?
E
ven those who love scripture and believe in the power of prayer sometimes find it challenging to make time for a rich and consistent prayer life. Yet prayer is the engine of a Christian’s spiritual life, the linchpin of a relationship with God. When we fail to take time for prayer, it’s often because we’re in an “I can do it by myself!” mode of thinking, not unlike a stubborn 2-year-old. But life isn’t meant to be lived without a consistent prayerful relationship with God. The gospels are full of examples of Jesus taking time to pray, both in short and long sessions, sometimes with others, sometimes alone. “Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed,” we read in Luke 5:16. Note the word “often.” He made his relationship with God top priority and taught followers to do likewise. Jesus emphasized the importance of being persistent and bold in our requests to God. In Luke 11:9 we read, “So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.” Prayer isn’t only about asking for things. It’s also a time of expressing thankfulness and praising God. There’s an old poem, most often attributed to Grace L. Naessens, which beautifully sums up the matter: I got up early one morning and rushed right into the day; I had so much to accomplish that I didn’t have time to pray. Problems just tumbled about me, and heavier came each task, “Why doesn’t God help me?” I wondered. He answered, “You didn’t ask.” I wanted to see joy and beauty, but the day toiled on gray and bleak; I wondered why God didn’t show me; He said, “But you didn’t seek.” I tried to come into God’s presence; I used all my keys at the lock; God gently and lovingly chided, “My child you didn’t knock.” I woke up early this morning, and paused before entering the day; I had so much to accomplish that I had to take time to pray. ❚ 12
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O L
Something Cool: Custom-Made Awnings W hen hot weather sets in, a little shade can make all the difference to your comfort level. A high-quality awning can dress up a home or business and make it feel more welcoming. Whether placed on your windows or rolled out over your patio, awnings offer relief from the blazing sun. The Rockford region is fortunate to have a company that’s been specializing in custom awnings since Paul R. Berg founded Illinois Automatic Awning in the 1920s, inside the old post office building on South Main Street. Berg invented the very first roller awning and set into motion Berg Industries Inc., a business that still prospers today. Michael Holsker, vice president of sales, has been working in all aspects of Berg Industries’ awning division since the early 1980s. “We offer hundreds of styles and options, from standard awnings to porch curtains and retractable awnings,” says
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Holsker. “The endless array of colors, whether bold or subdued, striped or solid, makes it easy to complement any style of architecture.” Awnings help to conserve energy by reducing interior temperatures; they also extend your outdoor living space. Ordering is easy because Berg staff members bring fabric samples to your home or business and custom measure the spaces to be shaded. “Fabric quality makes or breaks the performance and beauty of an awning,” says Holsker. Berg Industries partners with Tri Vantage, a top-line fabric distributor. The awnings and canopies are custom-made on-site at Berg Industries, 3455 S. Mulford Road, Rockford. Come fall, Berg will remove and store your awnings or deck canopy to prolong their life, and reinstall them in spring. “This is especially important for canopies over a deck that can sag and stretch
under the weight of snow,” Holsker explains. Berg also offers cleaning services to maintain your awnings. Along with residential and commercial awnings, Berg Industries makes custom boat covers and is the area’s largest tent rental company. Berg rents tents, tables, chairs, dance floors, table coverings and much more. Learn more at bergtents.com. ❚
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Y K
Hydrate Your Way to a Healthy Summer S
taying well-hydrated is especially important during the summer months. In addition to normal body functions, higher temperatures draw more water through perspiration, so consciously replacing your fluid content becomes essential for overall health. “Every system in your body – from reproduction and digestion to circulation, mood and memory – depends on water,” said Elizabeth Somer, M.A., R.D., and author of several nutrition and wellness books. However, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 44 percent of adults drink fewer than four cups of water per day (less than half of the recommended eight glasses per day), and in some cases, no water at all. What many people don’t realize is that beverages aren’t the only way to hydrate your body. In fact, water-dense foods such as watermelon can also boost your hydration. Sweetly flavored, lowcalorie watermelon is 92 percent water and offers several nutrients along with the cancer-fighting antioxidant lycopene. Whether eaten out of hand, tossed into a salad or blended in a healthy beverage, there are dozens of delicious ways a healthy serving of watermelon can help hydrate: • Crave-worthy snacks. Thoroughly chill the watermelon then slice, ball or cube it for a quick, refreshing and juicy boost. For kids, cut one-inch slices of the watermelon then use cookie cutters to make fun shapes for snacking. • Frozen treats. Puree watermelon, add chunks of fruit and pour into freezer molds for a sweet way to beat the heat. • Healthy juices. Make a simple Watermelon Juice for a great post-workout snack, or try this flavorful Watermelon Lemonade to put a fresh spin on a summertime favorite. Another option: add watermelon to your favorite fruit shakes or smoothies for a new flavor twist. • Salads and sandwiches. Easily add extra hydration into your regular
meals by tossing chunks of watermelon into a salad or layering strips of the fruit on a sandwich or wrap.
Watermelon Lemonade Serves: 5 cups
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup lemon juice • 2 1/2 cups water • 2/3 cup agave syrup • 2 cups watermelon chunks
Directions: Place all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth. Serve over ice.
Watermelon Juice
Serves: Varies, depending on watermelon size
Ingredients:
Directions: Blend 2-3 cups watermelon at a time until smooth. Strain into serving pitcher, if desired. Note: If not strained, juice will need to be stirred until blended prior to serving. ❚
• 1 watermelon, washed and cut into chunks
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Organic Fertilizers: Better for People, Pets, Wildlife By Peggy Werner
W
e’ve all heard about organic gardening, but what about organic fertilizer? “Organic fertilizer is really growing in popularity because people are concerned with what chemicals do to their property and the environment,” says Robert Ewald, CEO and president of Ewald Services, Inc., 1119 Turret Drive in Machesney Park. “We’re really seeing a big movement with people wanting healthier but also affordable options.” To meet the customer demand, Ewald researched products and expanded his 15-year-old landscaping business, Ewald Services, to become the exclusive distributer of SumaGreen by SumaGrow in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin, through his company, JB Green Solutions. The product allows people to grow plants organically while increasing yields, says Ewald. It also improves nutrient and water uptake; improves root
and plant growth; improves overall soil health; improves taste and crop quality; speeds germination time and removes soil contamination, Ewald says. The product is a little more expensive than chemical fertilizers, but not as expensive as traditional organic products. Ewald markets the product to farmers, turf companies and homeowners. “The product is a biological stimulant that puts microbes back into the soil to unlock the nutrients that are already there,” he explains. “The result is that you get a nice green lawn with no chemical additives and low-toxicity weed control,” he says. “Because I like to do things differently, I looked for options for my customers. I came across this product and was amazed at the results people in all sectors
of life have seen using it, whether growing corn in Ohio or taking care of a lawn in Illinois. “I researched the product extensively before using it to see how it performed and it gave great results across the board,” says Ewald. “Plus, it’s safer for people, pets and wildlife than traditional fertilizers and is a completely natural product.” ❚
The Yard Care Experts
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R O R
Continued from Cover
“Being of service is what we’re all about,” says Mike Donnelly, longtime Rotarian. “We have weekly meetings and quietly go about our business of community service, always looking for ways to improve our community and help to develop our youth through leadership programs.” “The labyrinth will serve as an area of peace and inspiration along the West State Street Linear Park,” says Tom Michalowski, chairman of the 100-year celebration. “We want the community to be excited about this project and to know it belongs to them as a place to walk, think or just sit and be at peace.” Michalowski felt strongly about giving this gift to the city. “We chose the west side because we’re all about leading and we want to see the west side revitalized in downtown Rockford,” Michalowski says. The dedication ceremony will feature Chamber
of Commerce President Einar Forsman as the master of ceremonies. Mayor Larry Morrissey and Rockford Park District Board President Ian Linnaberry will be featured guests. The $79,000 project was totally funded by local Rotarians. Greater Rockford has three Rotary clubs, one each in Rockford, Cherry Valley and Loves Park. The Rockford club is the oldest, born in 1916 at an afternoon outing held aboard the Illinois, a Rock River excursion boat. A group of Rockford leaders, in part recruited by Chicago Rotarians, had gathered for a day of fun,
food and fellowship. Six days later, 63 Rockford men met at Rockford’s Nelson Hotel, on South Main Street, to sign the charter for a Rockford Rotary Club. Along with many local projects, such as providing scholarships to students, Rotarians work worldwide to eradicate polio, set up filtered water plants, get school supplies to children, educate people about nutrition and much more. The Rotarian motto is “Service Above Self” and every project must pass a four-way test of promoting truth, fairness, friendship and goodwill for all. Russ Johansson, current club
Mike Donnelly
Russ Johansson
Photos by Tom Clabough
Rockford Rotary
Tom Michalowski
Nancy Kalchbrenner
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R O R president, has been a Rotarian since he moved to Rockford in 1987. Change begins at home, he says. “Now that we’re part of the Ellis Heights neighborhood, we must engage the neighborhood’s youth in using and maintaining the labyrinth,” he says. “We have a physical presence now and my hope is that the area can be a future meeting place for groups from the area and that we can build even more activities around the site.” For example, Rockford Rotary is in the process of getting a grant to purchase books for a reading program that could be held at the Rotary Labyrinth Center during summer months. Nancy Kalchbrenner, immediate past president of Rockford Rotary, and a former Rockford school board president, served on the centennial committee. Cover photo: Tom Michalowski of Rockford Rotary Club interacts with 2nd-graders in support of the club’s participation in the Rockford Reads program.
“We knew we wanted something that could be used by people and would last,” she says. “The more we found out about the West State Street Corridor Project, the more we got excited about being a partner. We wanted to contribute to the development and revitalization of the west side of Rockford.” Rockford Rotary members support international efforts The Rockford Park District such as providing clean water and immunizing children will maintain the site, with help against polio. (Rotary International/Monika Lozinska photo) from Rotarians and community Kalchbrenner feels that Rotary Club is a members, including those from the Rogood fit for her. tary Academy program. That program is “I enjoy the camaraderie and the among those for which the club is best emphasis on service and supporting huknown, along with a college scholarship manitarian causes in the community and program and sponsorship of the Rockford around the world,” she says. “I embrace Reads program for 2nd-graders. Rotary the concept of ‘think globally, act locally’ Academy partners with Rockford Public and you can do both at Rotary.” Schools, YMCA, Rockford University Learn more by attending Rockford and Rock Valley College to provide 230 Rotary at noon, on any Thursday, Sep8th-grade students with leadership develtember through June, at Veterans Memoopment opportunities. rial Hall, 211 N. Main St. ❚ A Rotarian for eight years,
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Learn more about Rockford and how it is the perfect getaway for
Chris Manuel, Dustin Koch, Reed Sjostrom
food, culture and outdoor adventure.
Prairie Street Brewhouse
Request your GoRockford guide at gorockford.com/vguide.
James Purifoy
Al Castrogiovanni
Zina Horton
15th & Chris
Alchemy
Zammuto’s
Real. Original. Delicious. 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 @gorockford Weekly 8 24 | June #gorockford | gorockford.com
Y H
Weight Loss: It’s All About What You Eat
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By Peggy Werner his time of year, people flock to the gym hoping to look better in their summer clothing. It’s always a good idea to get to the gym, but it won’t make up for what you put into your mouth, says Phil Toldo, International Sports Sciences Association certified personal trainer and sports nutritionist at Peak Fitness and Sports Club in Rockford and Loves Park. “Losing weight and body fat is about 80 percent of what you eat and about 20 percent of what you do at the gym. That shocks a lot of people,” he says. Toldo has a three-point plan for helping people to lose weight. First, you have to look hard at what you’re eating. Find out how many calories you’re taking in daily and eliminate processed foods and sugar. Make meals and snacks from lean protein, fruits and vegetables and healthy carbohydrates.
“People are so afraid of carbs, but if they eat the right ones, it’s OK,” says Toldo. Depending on your goals, a good starting point for daily caloric intake would consist of 30 percent fat, 40 percent carbohydrate and 30 percent protein. Secondly, once you know what you’re eating, start making changes and drop about 200 calories a week until you see results. He recommends no less than 1200 calories a day to get proper nutrition. Keep meals small and more frequent and you will be more satisfied and maintain your energy level, he says. “Everyone loses weight at a different rate. Just keep making small adjustments so you keep seeing results. You don’t want to feel miserable; you just want to restrict yourself as little as possible to get the results you want,” he says. Thirdly, increase your daily activity by walking and working out. If new to exercising, start out with just 10 to 20
minutes a day and gradually add time, intensity and frequency as you progress. “When it comes to diet and exercise, too many people want dramatic results too fast,” he says. “They end up getting discouraged, frustrated and injured. They eventually just give up. I’m happy if my clients are losing 2 to 4 pounds and 1 percent body fat per month. Think of food as fuel for the body, not a source of entertainment.” For more information, call Peak Fitness at (815) 398-7300 or Peak Sports Club at (815) 877-4401. ❚
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Enjoy more than 11,000 angels & angel artifacts on exhibit and the Black Angel collection donated by Oprah Winfrey
Heavenly Treasures Gift Shop
Unique & Vintage Angels • Distinctive Gift Ideas • Jewelry & Original Art
Taste of Heaven Café
Available for rent for special events like meetings • showers • birthdays Motor Coach & Group Tours Always Welcome
Museum Hours:
Thurs. - Sat. 10 am - 4 pm Handicap accessible & free parking
Featuring the Berg Angel Collection
656 Pleasant St., Hwy. 51 Beloit, WI 608.362.9099 or 877.412.6435 www.angelmuseum.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
Lego Exhibit Now thru June 19. Sun.-Sat. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. See beuautiful, whimsical Lego creations inside the conservatory. Afterward enjoy a stroll along Rockford, IL 61101 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com the Rock River and through Sinnissippi Rose Garden. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. 2nd St., Rockford, (815) 987-8858, nicholasconservatory.com. 9/10/07 2:07:37 PM
Stephen Sondheim’s “Assassins” Thru July 2, recurring Thu.-Sat. 8 p.m. Our nation’s most notorious assassins gather on stage to violently pursue a twisted American Dream. “Assassins” combines Sondheim’s signature blend of intelligent lyrics and beautiful music. Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 987-6660, rockfordpubliclibrary.org. Starlight Theatre: “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” June 8-11, Wed.-Sat. 8 p.m., Sat. matinee 2 p.m.; July 6-10, 8 p.m. Everyone’s favorite flying car comes to life in the musical adaption of the beloved 1968 Disney family film. Starlight Theatre, Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford, (815) 921-2160. AE: “Women Who Steal” June 10-26, Thu. 7:30 p.m., Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 4 p.m. & 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. During one wild ride, respectable Peggy and Karen, fueled by tequila, seek revenge on the men who did them wrong. Presented by Artists Ensemble. Cheek Theatre, Rockford University, Rockford, (815) 394-5004, artistsensemble.org. Lake Geneva Paint-In June 11, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Stroll the streets of downtown Lake Geneva while they’re lined with quaint umbrellas, under which you’ll find local artists painting, drawing and creating unique artworks. Downtown Lake Geneva, lakegenevadowntown.com. Concerts on the Creek: Greg Herriges June 11, 7-9 p.m. Greg Herriges presents music from around the globe. Pizza from Mamma Mia’s, canned soda, bottled water and popcorn is available. Spring Creek United Church of Christ, 4500 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 8772576, springcreekucc.org. Concerts on the Creek: Greg Herriges June 11, 7-9 p.m. Greg Herriges presents music from around the globe. Pizza from Mamma
Enjoy "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" at Starlight Theatre starting June 8.
Mia’s, canned soda, bottled water and popcorn is available. Spring Creek United Church of Christ, 4500 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 8772576, springcreekucc.org. History Explorers: Toys and Games June 11, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Families of all ages can visit more than a dozen interactive stations to explore toys and games from the 1800s. Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, (815) 397-9112 (ext. 104), midwayvillage.com. Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show June 12, noon-3 p.m. Registration begins at 8 a.m. Rockford First presents its eighth annual car, truck and motorcycle show featuring some of the area’s finest vehicles, as well as kids activities, Bike blessing, food vendors and live music from Pistol Pete. Rockford First, 5950 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 877-8000, rockfordfirstcarshow.com. Starlight Theatre: “Jesus Christ Superstar” June 15-18, Wed.-Sat. 8 p.m., Sat. matinee 2 p.m.; July 13-17, 8 p.m. Enjoy the Broadway rock opera based on the Gospels’ account of the last days of Jesus. Starlight Theatre, Rock Valley College, Rockford, (815) 921-2160. Wildflower Walkabouts June 15, 6 p.m. Join naturalists Lee and Lynda Johnson for a tour of Colored Sands Forest Preserve. This easy level walk will be a great hike for all abilities. Meet at the preserve’s Banding Station parking lot at the end of Haas Road, Rockton, (815) 335-2915, seversondells.com. ❚
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June 8
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Restaurant of the Week
Authentic Mexican Cuisine at Dos Reales By Paul Anthony Arco
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(Samantha Ryan photos)
os Reales, 5855 E. State St., Rockford, has been serving up authentic Mexican fare since 1998, along with some American favorites and signature margaritas, in an intimate yet fun atmosphere. Dos Reales features several Mexican signature items on its recently updated menu: burrito cheese steak, chimichangas and appetizers such as guacamole ranchero. Newer dishes include torta Mexicana, a Mexican style of sandwich filled with grilled chicken or steak; sopes Mexicanos, a traditional Mexican dish served with rice and beans; and molletes, a traditional Mexican meal with toasted bread covered in refried beans and grilled steak. There are nontraditional dishes, too, such as chicken wings, burgers and french fries. “There’s a misconception that all Mexican food is hot,” says Jose Gonzalez, Dos Reales’s manager. “All of our dishes are mild unless guests request them to be spicy. We prepare everything from scratch and purchase our products from local sources.”
Dos Reales offers gluten-free options and has always used fresh, preservative-free corn tortillas, chips and vegetable oil in its cooking. Recently, Dos Reales underwent a major renovation – its parking lot was repaved, the main dining room was repainted, new flooring and a new roof were installed and the kitchen received extensive upgrades. There’s a new bar, where customers gather for what Gonzalez calls the “best margaritas in town.” Drink specials are popular on Monday and Tuesday evenings. Live music is featured every other Friday. The main dining room seats 100, and the back dining area can be reserved for private events. Carry-out and catering are also offered. Dos Reales is open Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and Fri.-Sat. until 10:30 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. $. 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. $-$$. Giordano’s Famous Stuffed Pizza E Casual/Italian. Pick-up/ delivery. 333 Executive Pkwy., Rockford, Ill. (815) 398-5700. LD Sun-Th 9am-11pm; F-Sat to midnight. $. JMK Nippon Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar E UpscaleCasual. Food cooked tableside. 2551 N. Perryville, Rockford, (815) 877-0505. L T-F 11:30am-2pm, Sat 2:30pm; D M-Th 5-9:30pm, F-Sat 10:30pm, Sun 4:30-9:30pm. $$. 28
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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. $. ❚
June 8 To advertise call 815-316-2300
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. ❚
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Celebrate Summer at Midsommar Fest S By Peggy Werner
ummer will be welcomed in a big way with song, dance, food and more, in Swedish tradition, during the Swedish Historical Society’s annual Midsommar Fest on Saturday, June 18th. The free event will be from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the Erlander Home Museum grounds at 404 S. 3rd St. Visitors will step into a quaint Nordic village where they can dance around a maypole at noon with the Nordic Dancers of Chicago and enjoy Swedish folk music by Chicago Spelmanslag and Svea Sonar/Harmony Men’s Chorus throughout the day. They can shop artisan goods and antiques at the “Marknad,” and discover fine collectibles at “Mormor’s Attic,” including items from the Swedish American Museum of Chicago. Swedish food will be available at the Stockholm Inn pavilion, at the SHS booth and at other locations on the festival grounds.
“In Scandinavia, this is the most important celebration of the year,” says Lucretia Ristin, second vice president of the Swedish Historical Society. “Businesses close down and all activities stop so everyone can celebrate the longest day of the year. Because summer is so short in Sweden, we want to embrace all of life and its beauty while we have a chance to get outside and soak up the sun.” New this year is a silent auction featuring Swedish-inspired birdhouses, painted by local artists, including Ingrid Dohm. Prairie Street Brewhouse has crafted a special Lingonberry beer for the event, and will serve up a menu of BBQ foods and other delectable items. There will be a children’s area with crafts, face painting, storytelling and games, including the Viking yard game, KUBB. Pippi Longstocking and roaming
Vikings will mingle with guests throughout the day. Those 12 years and older can enter a Swedish Pancake eating contest. The Erlander Home Museum will be open for tours and guests will see where a new addition to the building is being constructed. From 5 to 8 p.m.,“Midsommar Natt” will present live music by Miles Nielsen & the Rusted Hearts; Emily Hurd & Stone Blind Valentine; and Kelly Steward & the Restless Kind. Admission to Midsommar Natt is $10. ❚
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Belvidere Pride to Shine at Heritage Days By Peggy Werner
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hen Belvidere Mayor Mike Chamberlain was elected to office in 2013, he wanted to celebrate his community by bringing back Heritage Days in a big way – and he has. This year’s three-day festival, with the theme “Belvidere Pride,” is June 2426 in downtown Belvidere and on the Boone Country Fairgrounds. The community also is celebrating its 135th anniversary. More than 40,000 people are expected to attend. “A lot of good stuff is planned and admission is free. We want Heritage Days to be available to all people in our community and be a wonderful event filled with plenty of fun things to do,” he says. Dozens of sponsors raise most of the money to pay for the festival. Among this year’s highlights are a Best Burger contest on Friday; the winning burger will be on the menu at the
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city’s Bush Garden’s Bar and Grill for one year. At the Kansas City BBQ Society contest on Saturday, teams will compete for the best chicken, pork rib, pork butt and brisket recipes. The Hispanic Festival Cinco de Mayo, normally held in May, has joined forces with Heritage Days and will take place all three days in the Fiesta Market parking lot at U.S. 20 and Pearl Street. Friday’s downtown events will include Go Kart races at 6 p.m. and a Museum Mystery Dinner at 5:30 p.m. The Zac Matthews Band will perform from 7 to 11 p.m. at the fairgrounds. Saturday’s downtown activities are
June 8 To advertise call 815-316-2300
from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. and include a fire truck pull, art fair, car show, craft vendors, duck derby, water fights, Paint on State and a street dance with light show at 8 p.m. Local bands, a truck show, tractor show, kid’s carnival, baseball tourney, the Kansas City BBQ contest and Grit Fit 5K challenge will be at the fairgrounds. Sunday begins with a patriotic worship service at 10 a.m. followed by bed races and a mural painting, then the Heritage Days Parade at 3 p.m. It will end with a July 4th Fireworks celebration at 9 p.m. at the fairgrounds. For a complete listing of times and events, go to the Belvidere Heritage Days Facebook page. “Heritage Days is about celebrating who we are and the whole community gets involved,” says Chamberlain. “We faced some tough economic times, but we have bounced back. We expect even more growth. When the entire community focuses on good news, it’s contagious.” ❚
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Healing Pathways Bow Tie March June 11 H By Peggy Werner elping local men to protect themselves from early death and giving them the support and information they need to have a full lives is the goal behind the sixth annual Bow Tie March and 5K run sponsored by Healing Pathways Cancer Resource Center, 3921 E. State St. in Rockford on June 11. Teams or individuals can register for the 1.5 mile Symbolic March and/or 5k Run, a Rockford Road Runners circuit race for 2016, beginning at 6 a.m. in the Home Depot parking lot. Both will take place along the Perryville Path. “It’s really a beautiful day, not too long, and very moving and touching,” says Melody Roccaforte, executive director of Healing Pathways. A Survivor/VIP tent opens at 6:30 a.m. where people can talk with men, ages 19-92, whose lives have been touched by cancer. “In Honor” signs and bow ties can be purchased at the tent. The run begins at 7:15 a.m. and the March begins
at 9 a.m. A Wellness Fair sponsored by OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center opens at 6:45 a.m. Children’s activities sponsored by Illinois Bank & Trust will start at 7 a.m. The Bow Tie mascot will offer photo opps and a chance to win a prize. Food tents and music start at 7:30 a.m.; Hooters Restaurant will provide wings at 9:30 a.m. The day is presented by MercyHealth and will benefit Healing Pathways, which offers programs and services to all people whose lives are touched by cancer, at no charge. “This is one of the very few venues where men can come and really share what men need to talk about; the fact that they’re often in denial, ignoring symptoms,” says Roccaforte. “Men don’t want to talk about what they’re feeling and don’t want their wives dragging them to the doctor. They’re afraid of hearing about a diagnosis and how treatment will affect their lives. The truth is that there has been much progress
in detecting cancer early and treating the disease with minimal side effects.” By nature, women are more intuitive and concerned about health matters for themselves and others, Roccaforte says. “The main message we want to get across is that if you notice anything unusual, get to the doctor right away and get a physical exam at least once a year.” A men’s cancer support group meets at 9 a.m. the first and third Saturday of each month at Healing Pathways. A caregivers group for friends and family members meets at the same time. Healing Pathways programs include, among others, counseling, nutrition, gentle exercise, therapeutic writing classes, support groups, massage therapy, reflexology, Reiki and emotional support through social gatherings. Learn more at healingpathwayscrc.org. ❚
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June 8 To advertise call 815-316-2300
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Take Advantage of Discounts on LED By Peggy Werner
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he savings on the electric bill can be huge when you switch to LED lighting, but replacing every bulb in the house at once can really add up. It makes sense to take advantage of the discounts offered to customers through the ComEd Energy Efficiency Program, which has been available to ComEd customers since June 2008. Batteries Plus Bulbs, 1825 S. Perryville Road, is one of the businesses that offers the ComEd discount to residential customers. Ashley Beto, commercial sales representative for Batteries Plus Bulbs, says people get an instant discount when purchasing LED light bulbs at the store. For example, a two-pack of LED bulbs, equivalent to 60-watt incandescent bulbs, will cost $6.99 after a $4 rebate. Most incandescent bulbs are good for 2,500 hours, while an LED light bulb
lasts about 25,000 hours, Beto says. That amounts to about six years of continuous use, compared to six months. The average homeowner can save about $52 a month with energy-efficient lighting. With LED lighting, you also need to choose a color temperature, which ranges from warm to cool. “You’ll use different colors, depending on your situation, to create different feelings. The warmer colors mimic the old incandescent lighting, while the cooler colors help people to experience the benefits of true daylight,” Beto says. The discount program is made possible through the Energy Efficiency Program line item on your ComEd electric bill. Customers pay into the program and should take advantage of services made available to them to help cut electric costs, says Michele Ptaszek of ComEd.
“State law requires that we provide energy efficiency offerings to our customers. Through the ComEd Energy Efficiency Program, we help people find ways to save energy,” she says. For a complete list of energy saving ideas, go to comed.com/homesavings. Batteries Plus Bulbs on Perryville is a family-owned business with additional locations in Loves Park and Sycamore. A fourth store will open in LaSalle-Peru later this year. ❚
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June 8 To advertise call 815-316-2300
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