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Right in Our Region

Rockford Speedway Offers Family Fun

By Peggy Werner

ow in its 69th year, Rockford Speedway has a long history as a family-run business offering fans fun-filled evenings with all the sounds, sights, pageantry and excitement you can find only at the racetrack. “There’s something for everyone at the Rockford Speedway and it’s one of the most

affordable family activities you can find,” says Eric Huenefeld, director of sales and media for Rockford Speedway, who also is the Saturday night announcer. “For as long as we’ve been around, we still get people who are new to the track and find out it’s so much fun, they want to come back every year.” Continued on p. 20

Best of Life Information for Our Region’s Residents & Visitors Proudly Serving the Needs of 326,000 Neighbors - For Your Home, Health & Fun! What to Know About Home & Business Water Systems • Rockford Pro-Am! • Rockton River Market Recipe:Mediterranean Eggs • Mamma Mia Italian Carry-Out & Catering • Free Summer Concerts!

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region .......................Cover & p. 22 Fun at Rockford Speedway Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 How to Choose Lumber Inspiration & Worship .....................................12 Solomon or David? Your Kitchen ....................................................15 Mediterrranean Eggs Your Health ............................................. .........25 Water Treatment Systems Your Fun ................................................... ........27 Dining .............................................................. 28 Mamma Mia, Rockford Brewing Co. Your Outings .............................................. ......23 Rockford ProAm Your Outings .............................................. ......17 Summer Music Roundup Your Outings .............................................. ......30 Rockton River Market

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Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Janine Pumilia Assistant Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen Deputy Editor Jermaine Pigee Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Ryan Contributing Writers Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes Account Executives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Website www.SmartLivingWeekly.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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Hot & Windy T

here’s a lot of hot air oppressing us in July 2016, and it’s not all caused by weather patterns. I’ve seen tornados with less spin than we’re witnessing in this national election cycle. Over the years, northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin have contributed plenty to the political fray. A quiz in our current issue of Northwest Quarterly Magazine (NWQ) tests your political memory. Here’s a sampling, with answers on p. 15. Pick up a free copy of NWQ from one of our 200-plus advertising partners or go to northwestquarterly.com. 1. Chicago has hosted more political conventions than any other city. How many? a) 14 Republican, 11 Democrat b) 11 Republican, 14 Democrat c) 17 Republican, 10 Democrat d) 7 Republican, 12 Democrat 2. Only one Wisconsin resident has appeared on a majority party’s presidential ticket. Can you name him? a) Tommy Thompson b) Joseph McCarthy c) Paul Ryan d) Scott Walker 3. One presidential candidate proudly claimed Rockford as his home. Under which party’s ticket did this candidate appear? a) Republican b) Democrat c) Independent d) Libertarian 4. Several presidential candidates have called Chicagoland home. Which did not? a) Hillary Clinton b) Jesse Jackson c) Thomas Dewey d) Adlai Stevenson II Enjoy your week and behold the political process at work! ❚

Janine Pumilia Executive Editor

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How to Nail Your Outdoor Projects By Anna Girgenti

ummer is the perfect time for outdoor projects, but building a wood deck can be daunting. “When it comes to buying lumber, customers need to know what type of materials they’re looking for and what’s available,” says Mike Rotolo, who handles sales for Schmeling Building Supply, 1031 School St., Rockford. Schmeling is Rockford’s only locally owned lumberyard, founded in 1903 as a small contracting business and carpenter shop. This family-owned business has the services, products, and advice you need for any outdoor or indoor lumber projects. So, what’s the golden rule during the decking process? “Don’t go for price, go for quality. This wood is going to be exposed to weather constantly,” says Rotolo. Schmeling carries lumber that can withstand extreme weather changes. “We tend to carry a higher grade of

material, such as #1KDAT(kiln dried after treatment) Southern Yellow Pine, which takes the retention of chemicals better than other woods,” Rotolo says. “This is material that you can stain and paint immediately.” Many chain lumber stores advise customers to wait months before staining or painting, but the strength and quality of Schmeling’s lumber make the process quicker. Schmeling’s also has a well-equipped shop that can plane, rip, cut and shape material for your projects. After your outdoor project is finished, maintenance is key. “There’s no such thing as maintenance-free decking,” says Rotolo. “Composite decks should be cleaned regularly, wood decks need to be sealed with an oil-based product, such as Penofin. Oil soaks in better than latex paint, which will peel. The oil-based stain should be semi-transparent, not opaque,

and it should be reapplied every 2-3 years.” With Schmeling, your next project may be easier than you think. Schmeling takes special orders and makes quick deliveries for industrial and commercial accounts. “I’ve worked in other lumberyards near Chicago, and many of them schedule deliveries that are days out,” says Rotolo. “We’re all about keeping our customers happy.” Learn more at schmeling.com. ❚

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I  W

David or Solomon?

ing Solomon was the Bill Gates of his day, from a worldly perspective. The son of King David and Bathsheba, he ruled a vast empire and knew every pleasure in the world. He constructed the first Temple of the Lord in Jerusalem and is still remembered for his wisdom, a gift he asked for and graciously received from God when he was young. Solomon said, “I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties … So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?” – 1 Kings 3:7-9 Tragically, Solomon didn’t receive this great gift with lifelong humility and gratitude. He forgot Whose people he governed and, over time, began treating them badly. He denied God the one thing God really wanted from Solomon: a loving and obedient relationship. “For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the Lord his God, as was the heart of David his father … And the Lord was angry with Solomon, because his heart was turned from the Lord God of Israel, which had appeared unto him twice.” – I Kings 11:4-9 How many of us have longed to see God in person, even once? For all his wisdom, Solomon was no David. David also behaved very badly, at times, but he desperately loved God and always returned to Him with true humility. He spent time with God, dancing and singing for Him, and writing God love poems, something frowned upon by the joyless religious class of the day. David experienced joy with God beyond anything Solomon ever knew and God called David a man after His own heart. Solomon built an impressive Temple, but David built a place for God inside his heart. Who was the richer man? Who does God tell us to emulate? Humility matters, and God is not fooled by showy works and empty rhetoric. ❚ – Janine Pumilia 12

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Mediterranean Baked Eggs: Delicious Nutrition

ggs are among the world’s most versatile treats. Think tasty Eggs Benedict, warm hash brown frittata, refreshing egg salad, savory egg-fried rice or sweet and creamy egg custard. Eggs also works perfectly with many of today’s popular eating patterns. The Mediterranean diet, for example, focuses on nutrient-dense foods and recommends that breakfasts feature a quality protein like eggs along with fruits, vegetables and whole grains. The diets of chickens impact the nutritional value of eggs. Producers like Eggland’s Best intentionally up the nutrients in eggs. Eggland’s Best hens are fed healthy grains, canola oil and a supplement of rice bran, alfalfa, sea kelp and Vitamin E. In addition, the hens’ feed contains no added hormones, antibiotics, steroids, animal by-products, recycled or processed foods.

Quiz Answers from p. 7

Mediterranean Baked Eggs:

4 large eggs 2 cups frozen hash brown potatoes 1 TB butter 1 medium (3/4 cup) onion, chopped 1 cup sliced mushrooms 1 (6-ounce) bag fresh spinach leaves 6 TB heavy whipping cream 1 tsp ﬁnely chopped fresh garlic 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp pepper 1 small (1/2 cup) tomato, chopped 4 TB freshly grated Parmesan cheese 2 TB ﬁnely chopped fresh basil leaves Preparation Heat oven to 400° F. Butter 4 (each 8-oz.) individual glass or ceramic baking dishes. Spoon ½ cup potatoes evenly onto bottom of each. Bake 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are very lightly browned. Melt butter in 12-inch skillet until sizzling; add onions and mushrooms and

cook until softened. Add spinach; continue cooking, turning spinach often, 4-5 minutes. Add whipping cream, garlic, salt and pepper; continue cooking 1 minute. Add tomato, 2 TB Parmesan cheese and basil. Spread mixture over potatoes; sprinkle with remaining cheese. Make an indentation in center of mixture in each baking dish. Crack 1 egg into each indentation. Bake 18-20 minutes or until yolks are set or yolk temperature reaches 160°F. Serves four. ❚ Source: BPT

1. a) Chicago welcomed 14 Republican and 11 Democrat conventions between 1860 and 1996. President Bill Clinton was the most recent president to be nominated here. 2. c) Paul Ryan ran as the Republican vice presidential nominee with Mitt Romney in 2012. The pair lost to Chicagoan Barack Obama and Joe Biden of Delaware. 3. c) John B. Anderson, a former congressman from Rockford, ran in the 1980 Republican primary against Ronald Reagan, who received the nomination. Anderson then broke from the party and ran as an independent. 4. c) Thomas Dewey, who ran against Franklin Roosevelt in 1944 and Harry Truman in 1948, spent much of his life in New York state. Hillary Clinton grew up in Park Ridge, Ill., and Jesse Jackson began his career in Chicago. Adlai Stevenson II lived in Libertyville. ❚ Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

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Upcoming Summer Concerts to Enjoy Saturdays - Concerts on the Creek Spring Creek United Church of Christ, 4500 Spring Creek Road, 7 p.m. Springcreekucc.org. July 30: Eric Lambert & Chris Walz; Aug. 6: Mark Dvorak & friends; Aug. 13: Firelight Dimmers; Aug. 20: Paper Airplane; Aug. 27: John Denver Tribute Concert featuring Chip Messiner; Sep. 3: Groove Hotel; Sept. 10: Arch Smith & John Lindhorst; Sept. 17: The Pickin’ Bubs

Valley Summer Festival Orchestra; Aug. 4: American English Beatles Tribute; Aug. 9: Big Daddy Woo Woo; Aug. 11: Moonlight Jazz Orchestra. Wednesdays - Tunes on the Terrace Nicholas Conservatory, 1315 N. 2nd St., 6 p.m., Rockfordparkdistrict.org. July 27: The Lone Canary; Aug. 3: After 5 Jazz; Aug. 10: Stages; Aug. 17: Jodi Beach; Aug. 24: Eddie B Jazz; Aug. 31: Frank Calvanga; Sept. 7: Three Good Men; Sept. 14: Reed & Waddy.

Select Sundays - Woodsong Series Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., $10 non-members. Klehm.org. Aug 21: The Jimmys. Tuesday Evenings in the Garden Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Tuesday evenings 5:45 p.m., Andersongardens.org, concerts free with garden admission; Aug. 2: Hackensaw Boys of Charlottesville, Va. w/Mark Rose; Aug. 9: Strange Americans of Denver, Colo., with Vince Chiarelli; Aug. 16: Ragbirds of Ann Arbor, Mich. w/Tom MacGroup; Aug. 23: Whiskey Farm of Madi-

Thursdays - Dinner on the Dock Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., 5-10 p.m., deck opens at 4 p.m. July 28: Unity the Band and Reggae Horns. son, Wis. and Miles Nielsen of Rockford; Aug. 30: Danielle Nicole Band of Kansas City, Mo., w/ Patchouli. Tues. & Thurs. - Music in the Park Sinnissippi Music Shell, 1401 N. 2nd St., 7 p.m. rockfordparkdistrict.org. July 28: Mason Rivers Country Band; Aug. 2: Rock

Select Fridays - Music on the Mall Edgebrook, 1639 N. Alpine Road, 6:30 p.m., Edgebrookshops.com. July 29: Between Planes; Aug. 5: Fred & Ginger; Aug. 12: The Surf Band; Aug. 19: Eddie B Jazz; Aug. 26: After5 Jazz; Sept. 2: The Groove Hotel; Sept. 9: Blue Lightning Band; Sept. 16: Swingbilly Rockford. ❚

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Speedway Continued from Cover

The short track’s family-oriented racing schedule is nationally known for innovative events like the “World Famous Figure 8 Trailer Race,” scheduled this year at 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6, and sponsored by Kar Korner of Loves Park. “This is our most well-known event and has taken on a life of its own,” Huenefeld says. “Trucks, cars, and vans pull boats, campers, trailers, or whatever they can pull to destroy and create carnage until only one vehicle is left standing. This event has been featured on national television and we’ve been doing it for more than 20 years. It always draws a sell-out crowd. People love the craziness.” Kid’s Night is featured four times a season. After the races, fans can enter the pit to get a close-up view of the cars, meet and talk with the drivers and get autographs, along with other activities for kids of all age groups.

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David Deery, general manager of Rockford Speedway, says the goal is always to offer something new and exciting for the fans. He grew up at Rockford Speedway and then operated tracks on the East Coast and in Arizona before returning to the family business in 2008, bringing some great ideas with him. More than 200 truckloads of dirt turned the asphalt track into a dirt path for the first “Outlaw Clay Classic” held in June. Another popular attraction is Auto Soccer, which will be part of the Miller Lite “Night of Thrills,” on Saturday, Sept. 17th at the track. “Imagine a ball of steel four feet in diameter and weighing 800 pounds getting battered around by cars,” he says. The family legacy began in 1959, when the late Hugh Deery purchased a stake in the track; he and wife Jody later became sole owners. Now 92, Jody still comes to work every day. Their eight children grew up working on what she calls the “family farm.”

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“It was a good way to keep the family together,” she says. “They learned to work as a team and how to handle money. All of them were able to pay for at least their first year of college with the money they earned.” Hugh and Jody knew very little about racetracks, at first. They were living in Indianapolis at the time. Hugh was working for an insurance agency and she was

R  O R a registered nurse. He got to know people in the auto repair business, and one of the business owners invited him to the track. “He thought it was so exciting, and I’m sitting at home with two babies and one on the way,” Jody recalls. “The next time, I went with him and I thought it was fun and interesting, too. Some people like the cars, others like the excitement. There’s always something new and different at the racetrack. No two races are alike and you never know what’s going to happen. All of that makes it exciting.” Hugh loved entertainment on a grand scale, Jody says. He used his sharp business mind and many sales skills to create a family legacy that stood the test of time. Today, Jody works at the track with son David and daughter Sue, who is comptroller and manages hospitality and concessions. Jody has no plans to retire. “I will stay on as long as I can. It’s my life,” she says. “And racing is life. Everyone is always trying to beat someone at something. Even in Biblical times,

chariots raced on oval tracks with checkerboard flags signaling the beginning and end of a race. We still use horsepower, but a different kind. People would be amazed at the many things we have in our cars today that were first used in race cars – like seat belts and rear view mirrors.” Jody enjoys her family and church activities when not on the job. The Speedway is a quarter-mile, high-banked, asphalt racetrack with grandstand seating on both sides. Party pavilions accommodate business group outings or birthday parties. Suites hold about a dozen people. In addition to the racetrack, there are concession stands, a playground and a souvenir stand. The track, known for its difficulty, has helped launch the careers of NASCAR stars such as Mark Martin, Dick Trickle, Alan Kulwicki, Ted Musgrave, Rusty Wallace, Rich Bickle, Greg Biffle, Matt Kenseth, Travis Kvapil, Jamie McMurray, Todd Kluever, Erik Darnell and Scott Wimmer.

Sanctioned by the National Association of Stock Car Racing (NASCAR), Rockford Speedway participates in the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series. The divisions that compete at the Rockford Speedway include: Late Model, Sportsman, American Short Trackers, Road Runners, Hornets, Bandits, Winged Women on Wheels and Figure 8s. The track also hosts many touring series including ARCA Midwest Tour, Big 8 late Model Series, Mid-American Stock Car Series, Illini Racing Series Midgets, Super Cups and more. The Speedway also welcomes nationally-known monster trucks, such as Doug Rose and his world famous Green Mamba Jet Car, featured again this year on Saturday, Sept. 17th. The Speedway season includes Saturday-night entertainment April to October, and Wednesday races from mid-June to mid-August. Gates open at 5 p.m. Races begin at 7:07 p.m. on Saturdays and at 7:27 p.m. on Wednesdays. ❚

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40th Annual Rockford ProAm is Aug. 15 T

he 40th Annual Rockford ProAm will be held on Monday, Aug. 15, at Rockford Country Club. Established in 1977, the Rockford ProAm (pro-am means professional/ amateur) is the nation’s longest-running, freestanding pro-am event not associated with a professional tournament. It features amateur foursomes paired with professional golfers. The foursomes play in a best-ball handicapped format, while the pros keep straight 18-hole scores. Now entering year 40, the Rockford ProAm has donated more than $3 million to various northern Illinois health and human services organizations through the years. It also has provided an entertaining day of high-level, professional golf to the Rockford area. The ProAm traditionally has been held in mid-July and, over the past decade, has been up against the British Open, when luring professional golfers

to the tournament. In 2016, the Olympic games in Rio have helped necessitate a one-time change to the PGA Tour schedule that moves the closest event, the John Deere Classic (JDC) in Silvis, Ill., to a Sunday, Aug. 14 finish. Moving the date away from the British Open offers a unique situation that will increase opportunities for the Rockford ProAm to draw from a larger professional golfer pool. Cost is $10 and tickets are available at the gate. For more information, visit therockfordproam.com. Beneficiaries of the 40th Annual Rockford ProAm include: • Discovery Center Museum’s Handicap Accessible Picnic Area. Proceeds will be used to landscape, construct and outfit a new picnic area connected to the Museum’s award-winning outdoor science park for children with special needs. • GiGi’s Playhouse Down Syndrome Achievement Center. Proceeds will be used to secure Crawlers, Walkers, Hop,

Skip & Jumpers and volunteer training for its Therapeutic programs, plus supplies, materials and volunteer training for its Literacy/Math programs. • Rockford MELD Trinity House Shelter and Transitional Living Programs. Proceeds will support programs and staff at Rockford MELD’s emergency shelter and transitional living apartments. • The First Tee of Greater Rockford/A Program of the Rockford Park District. Proceeds will be used to impact the lives of young people. ❚

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What to Know About Your Water System By Anna Girgenti

f there’s one thing you shouldn’t have to worry about during the busy summer months, it’s your water. Having clean, accessible water in your home or business involves proper installation and maintenance, according to the experts at Affordable Water, 214 W. Menomonie St., Belvidere. “The biggest mistake people make with their in-home water systems is misapplication of equipment,” says Samantha Strobel, general manager at Affordable Water. Without proper installation, your water system is susceptible to permanent damage. Installing a water treatment system is more complicated than many people think. The slightest mistake may result in hard water, staining or the introduction of bacteria and viruses. Misapplication due to inadequate installation can ruin both the equipment and the water. If you’re

thinking about installing your own water system, you may be putting your system at higher risk of malfunction. Consider calling a professional water company to handle the entire process for you. “We specialize in water purification equipment and chemical-free systems. We also offer a complete lineup of equipment for rental, leasing, residential, commercial accounts and more,” says Stro-

bel. The family-owned business offers more than 35 years of experience, with certified service technicians. “People commonly run into issues with their water softeners when they’re not keeping up with maintenance or when the system isn’t programmed properly,” says Strobel. Some types of water treatment systems need maintenance more often, and some require regular professional maintenance. Your water system will last longer if you rely on a company that can service all your needs. “Affordable Water is an accredited business for the Better Business Bureau,” says Strobel. “Consumers looking to install or repair a home water system should check with the Better Business Bureau to know they’re doing business with a reputable company. ,” says Strobel. Affordable Water is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Call (815) 544-0918 for more information. ❚

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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

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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

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Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

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Attractions & Events

“Children of Eden” July 27-31, 8 p.m. Based on the book by John Caird, this musical inspired by the Biblical book of Genesis illuminates the age-old conflicts Rockford, IL 61101 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com between parents and children. Starlight Theatre, Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford, (815) 921-2160, rvcstarlight.com. 9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

Rigidity and Flexibility in Traditional Japanese Arts July 28, 7 p.m. One of the distinctive characteristics of traditional Japanese arts and culture is the co-existence of rigidity and flexibility. Explore Japanese arts that demonstrate these characteristics and learn about the art forms that have influenced Japan’s contemporary industry. Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 316-3307, andersongardens.org. Jim Gill Family Friday July 29, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Kids and adults will be singing, dancing and sneezing during two lively performances. Jim Gill, an award-winning musican and author, is releasing a new CD for children and families. Enjoy these new songs and old favorites while playing silly musical games. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, discoverycentermuseum.org. Krazy Kids Inflatable Fun Run 2016 July 30, 8:30 a.m. The Krazy Kids Inflatable Fun Run is a nation-wide obstacle run created solely for children. Each inflatable obstacle is unique, safe and fun. MercyRockford Indoor Sports Center, 8800 Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, Ill., (815) 399-2233, krazykidsinflatablefunrun.com. Concerts on the Creek: Eric Lambert & Chris Walz July 30, 7-9 p.m. Eric Lambert and Chris Walz perform flat pickin’ guitar infused with bluegrass, blues, rock and soul. Pizza from Mamma Mia’s, canned soda, bottled water and popcorn available. Spring Creek United Church of Christ, Rockford, (815) 877-2576, springcreekucc.org. Japanese Summer Festival July 30-31, Sat. 10 a.m., Sun. 3 p.m. The Japanese Summer Festival features exhibits, demonstrations and unique performances that help to foster a better understanding of the Japanese culture. Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford, (815) 229-9390, andersongardens.org.

Bike through the North End of Rockford to get a passport stamped at The Tour de North End Bike Festival on July 30.

Historical Bike Tour July 30, 8 a.m. The River District Association hosts a Historical Bike Tour of downtown Rockford. Gary Anderson, a well-known Rockford architect, is knowledgable about historic buildings downtown Rockford and will be leading the tour. Meet at the Rockford City Hall parking lot, 425 E. State St., Rockford, riverdistrict.com. Tour de North End Bike Festival July 30, 11 a.m. signup, 1-5 p.m. ride. Rockford's original bike festival and neighborhood ride returns for its sixth year. Bike through the North End of Rockford to participating locations to get your passport stamped. Begin at Olympic Tavern, 2327 N. Main St., Rockford, tourdenorthend.com. Happy Birthday, Harry July 31, 6-9 p.m. Birthday cake, pumpkin juice and chocolate frogs are only the beginning of this birthday celebration. Drop into herbology, practice potions or get a glimpse of the night sky in astronomy class. Muggles are welcome. Discovery Center Museum, Rockford, (815) 963-6797, discoverycentermuseum.org. AJG: Hackensaw Boys Aug. 2, 5:45 p.m., doors 5 p.m. Tuesday Evening in the Gardens concert series. American roots-inspired Hackensaw Boys, whose music fuses vintage tones with modern sensibilities. Refreshments available. Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford, (815) 229-9390, andersongardens.org. ❚

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July 27

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Mamma Mia’s: ‘Simple, Fresh, Real’ Italian Food

By Peggy Werner history of great Italian cooking, warm family memories, more than 30 years of restaurant experience and recipes passed down through generations – all come together at Mamma Mia’s, 1139 N. Alpine Road, Rockford. Charlie Salamone, one of the co-owners at Franchesco’s Ristorante, is helping his son, Frank, bring to life another successful business that provides “simple, fresh, real” Italian food. Mamma Mia’s offers carry-out food and and delivery service; it also caters parties of any size, including weddings, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers and corporate events. Many recipes for sauces and main dishes come from the late Anna Salamone, mother and Nonna, who provided son Charlie with skills and knowledge at a young age, which he has passed along to Frank. “There was nothing she couldn’t make,” Charlie says of his mom. Frank remembers, “We’d say we were

full, and she would put more food on our plates. She loved to cook and feed people. It was her passion.” The menu includes appetizers, specialty pizzas, calzones, gourmet pastas, salads, sandwiches, desserts and specials. Everything is made fresh daily from high quality ingredients. You might want to try your luck at taking down “The Don,” family members (L-R) Caroline, Wendy, Rockford’s largest pizza. The Salamone Charlie, Frank, Luke and Allie. 32-incher is great for parties of up to Fridays bring an all-day fish fry. 20 people, but if two can eat it within 45 “Simple, fresh and real ingredients minutes, they earn a $100 gift certificate is our motto,” says Frank. “We don’t cut to Mamma Mia’s, get their picture posted corners. It’s the only way our family cooks. on the wall and the pizza for free. There’s always an easier way, but that Pizza crust choices at Mamma Mia’s doesn’t make it better. We have proven it include extra thin, regular, pan-style, time and time again.” stuffed and gluten-free. There’s also gluMamma Mia’s is open from 4-9 p.m. ten-free mostaccioli and chocolate cake. Mon.-Thurs.; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri.; 4-10 Customer favorites include Garlic p.m. Sat.; and 4-9 p.m. Sun. Call (815) Dough Knots and sandwiches made with 399-6262 or go to mmiaspizza.com or use slow-cooked Italian beef, meatballs, sauthe Mamma Mia’s mobile app. ❚ sage or an Italian beef/ sausage combo.

In the Spotlight

Top Picks for Local Restaurants 9 East Coffee E Casual/Coffeehouse. Specialty coffees, pastries, breakfast, lunch. 9 E. Stephenson St., Freeport, (815) 233-7300, BkL M-F 7am-3pm, Sat 7am-2pm. $

Maciano’s Pizza & Pastaria E Casual/Italian. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, Ill., (815) 963-7869. LD Sun-Th 11am10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $$.

Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Authentic Mexican. 107 W. Main St., Poplar Grove, Ill., (815) 765-1144. LD M 11am8pm; T-Th to 9pm; F to 10pm; Sun noon-8pm. $.

Mamma Mia’s E Casual/American. Pizza, pasta, sandwiches, wraps. 1139 N. Alpine Road, Rockford, (815) 399-6262. LD M-Th 4-9pm, F 11am-10pm, Sat 4-10pm, Sun to 9pm. $$

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

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

Cannova’s Italian Cuisine E Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., Freeport, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. $-$$. Costa’s Ristorante E Upscale-Casua/Italian. 133 Blackhawk Dr., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. LD Daily 4pm. $-$$. Franchesco’s Ristorante E Upscale/Italian-American. Sommelier, live entertainment. 7128 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 229-0800. LD Sun-Th 4-9pm, F-Sat to 10pm. $$ Fresco at the Gardens. E Casual/American Café. Fresh, localsourced ingredients. 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 316-2256 BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$ Giordano’s Famous Stuffed Pizza E Casual/Italian. Pick-up/ delivery. 333 Executive Pkwy., Rockford, (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 to 2:30pm; D M-Th 5-9:30pm, F-Sat to 10:30pm, Sun 4:30-9:30pm. $$. 28

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Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint E Fine Dining. Ironworks Hotel, 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, (608) 313-0700. D Sun-Th 4:30-9pm, Fri-Sat to 10pm. $$. Napoli Pizzeria III & Top Dollar Slots E Takeout/delivery. 6560 N. Alpine, Loves Park, Ill., (815) 877-9888. LD Daily 11am. Prairie Street Brewhouse E Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$. Rock Cut Concessions E Casual/American. Hot beverages, snacks, equipment rental. Rock Cut State Park, 7318 Harlem Road, Loves Park, Ill., (815) 885-4740. BkLD Daily 7am-7pm. $ Tavern on Clark E Casual/American. 755 Clark Ave., Rockford, (815) 708-7088. LD Daily 10am. $-$$. Thrive Café E Casual/Cafe. Salads, wraps, sandwiches, smoothies, cold-pressed juices. Inside Peak Fitness, 4401 Peak Drive, Loves Park, Ill. BkLD M-F 6am-8pm, Sat 8am-2pm. ❚

July 27 To advertise call 815-316-2300

The Rockford Brewing Co.

he Rockford Brewing Co. restaurant, inside the Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., Rockford, serves lunch and dinner seven days a week, and offers daily drink and food specials. On the menu are appetizers like shrimp & avocado ceviche, trufﬂe fries, a hummus plate and Poutine, made with Yukon gold fries, screw city light braised pork belly, cheese curds and herbed bacon gravy, along with soups and salads. “Handhelds” are sandwiches like pulled pork, screw city light corned beef, turkey club, and a BLT made with a one-third pound patty, with options of cherrywood bacon, and/or duck bacon. Entrees include ﬁsh and chips, ribeye steak and Gado Gado, an almondcrusted tofu dish. Rockford Brewing Co. is open Sun.-Wed. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.,Thurs. to midnight, and Fri.-Sat. to 2 a.m. ❚

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July 27

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Fresh Food, Friendly Faces at River Market By Anna Girgenti

espite a rough start ﬁve years ago, the Rockton River Market has become a cherished tradition for residents of Rockton and surrounding areas. Patricia Diduch, planning and development administrator for the Village of Rockton, has witnessed the River Market’s exponential growth. “Originally, the market was in a church parking lot, and it didn’t have much success there,” Diduch says. “The market now takes place in Settler’s Park in downtown Rockton, where hundreds of people crowd each Wednesday night. This is the fourth summer that there’s been music, and that attracts a lot of people.” The market’s weekly concerts aren’t the only attraction. A wide range of food and goods sold by vendors fill the market each summer. One such vendor is The Wild Rhubarb Eatery & Bakery, owned

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by Susan Wheeler. “Our purpose is twofold,” says Wheeler. “We want to support the local economy, but we also want to support locally grown fresh food. The market is the perfect place for that. The market offers plenty of great locally made food, from local businesses like Mark’s Pizza, Rookie’s Pub & Grill, Fibs Supper Club and Lulu’s Roasted Corn. Perhaps the best part of the market is the hometown atmosphere. “I live in Roscoe and, as an artist, it’s important for me to get out and meet people in the community and learn from them,” says Jill Rae of Jill Rae Finally Art. For her, the market isn’t about publicity or income; it’s all about spending time with local people. Last summer, she met other artists at the market, including Gail Anderson Clay Artist and Geri Cook of Softplace Lifestyles. “I sat right next

July 27 To advertise call 815-316-2300

to a farmer selling these beautiful sunflowers, and I was so inspired. I’ve been painting sunflowers ever since.” The busy Rockton River Market is evidence of this community’s passion for good food, music, shopping, and fellowship. The market will continue from now through August, every Wednesday night from 4-8 p.m. in Settler’s Park. Learn more at rocktonrivermarket.com. ❚

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July 27 To advertise call 815-316-2300

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July 27

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Issue 1