Smart Living Weekly - July 15, 2015

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n iving g Sm mart a r t L ivi ivin ng Weekly Save Smarter • Live Better • Rockford Region/Beloit 95¢ • July 15, 2015

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Right in Our Region

Craig Campbell Headlines 161st Green Co. Fair

By Peggy Werner

T

he 161st Green County Fair will take place July 22-26. Yep, you heard it right – the county’s 161st fair. And after all these years, fair organizers vow to hold onto old-fashioned values and tradition, while keeping pace with the times and offering something new for people of all ages.

This year, there will be more rides, races, auctions, food and entertainment than ever before, says Stephanie Miranda, office manager for the fair. “I love this fair because it has such a nice small town feel, yet it also has a rich history,” she says. “It’s amazing it started so long ago, has grown so much, but never loses that small-town feel.”

Continued on p. 20

• Get All the SAVINGS You Deserve from Local Businesses

Rockford Launches Vintage Fair • Farm to Table Recipes • Make Your Patio a Haven Save Money on Back-to-School Shopping • Know the Signs of Skin Cancer • Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 20 Green County Fair Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Outdoor Living Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Seek, Don’t Hide Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Farm to Table Finds Your Outings ......................................................17 Second Rockford Vintage Market Your Health ............................................. .......... 25 Know the Signs of Skin Cancer Your Fun ................................................... ......... 27

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

Tips ........................................................... ......... 31 Avoid Mosquito Bites Your Money .............................................. ......... 33 Save on Back-to-School Shopping

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 Senior Staff Writer/Promotions Coordinator Paul Anthony Arco Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Ryan Contributing Writers Rachel Shore, Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes General Manager/Northwest Business Magazine Dave Marino Account Executives Brian Hughes, Kimberly Perkins Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Website www.NWQSmartLiving.com Published by Hughes Media Corp.

222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 Smart Living Weekly.

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

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Green Acres T

he county fair detailed in our cover story is a great reason to visit Green County, Wis., but, really, you don’t need an excuse.

My sweetie and I drove up a few weeks ago to see what’s new – or maybe to enjoy what’s not new. The sense of timelessness there is part of the charm.

We meandered the countryside, with its gently rolling hills and lush pastures dotted with happy cows nourished by grass, fresh air and sunshine. That scene is all the more cherished in this age of cruel factory farms, where animals never feel sunlight on their backs.

We enjoyed wandering the shops, bakeries and historic sites of New Glarus, our “Little Switzerland.” Fondue, anyone? Fresh fudge?

There’s something about the quaint square in Monroe that makes me feel good – and I’m not talking about the Spotted Cow beer I ordered to wash down my Cheddar-onrye sandwich at Baumgartner’s Tavern. It’s something less tangible.

Anchoring Monroe Square is a grand 1891 Romanesque-style county courthouse.

Its lawns are the backdrop for summer concerts, art shows and the Green County Cheese Days, the latter celebrated only in even-numbered years. Wrapping the square are locally owned businesses, like dress shops, book stores and galleries. Their owners are nearly always good for a chat – like Army veteran James Reese, whose hand-carved custom furniture and toys are a marvel. He opened The Wooden Trooper this summer and is enthused about working closely with other shopkeepers to cross-promote wares. It’s exactly this sense of goodwill that visitors like me enjoy most about Green County.

If you’re wondering why whimsical mermaids and seahorses inhabit Monroe Square, it’s because this year’s theme is “Asquarium,” and talented local artists paint these figures just for your enjoyment.

Summer is far from over and it can’t rain every day, so why not enjoy some daytrippin’ to neighboring counties? Happy wanderings! ❚ Janine Pumilia Executive Editor

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Y H  G

Be Creative with Outdoor Spaces

By Peggy Werner hether you envision a warm and welcoming place to entertain large groups of people, or just want to replace that ugly cracked and sunken piece of concrete outside the sliding glass doors, you’ll have to go through a few steps to plan for that new patio.

“Most people have an idea of what they want,” says Kevin Obee, general manager at Benson Stone Company, 1100 11th St. “Whether it’s a large or small project, they want that outdoor space to function more like another room in the house.”

A well-planned patio can add value to your home and make it a more comfortable place in which to entertain, he says.

“The only limits are in your own mind.”

Planning an outdoor space is not much different from revamping any other room in a home. A focal point should be chosen – perhaps a table and chairs,

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fireplace, fire pit, fountain, waterfall or something else. The homeowner also must decide on the size of the space, the desired style, and the type of materials to be used.

Depending on the size and scope of the project, Benson works with designers and landscape architects to help homeowners achieve the look, lines, and colors they want to incorporate into an outdoor room.

Everything a person needs, from start to finish, to make a livable and lovable outdoor space, is found at Benson Stone.

In business for more than 75 years, furniture, fireplaces, wood fire ovens, barbeque grills, fireplaces, granite countertops, carpet, flooring, landscape materials, and brick and stone of all types are available.

Visit the four-story restored furniture factory filled with ideas to transform your home inside and out. Showroom hours

are from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday; and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. While you’re there, stop by the Hearthrock Café for breakfast or lunch.

The Café is open from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Monday through Friday; and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. ❚

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I  W

Seek, Don’t Hide

G

od loves us. “Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered,” Jesus tells his disciples in Luke 12:7 (NIV).

God also knows we’re vulnerable to being misled and turned from Him. A few verses earlier, in Luke 12, Jesus warns the disciples not to be deceived and misled by hypocritical leaders who say one thing but do another. They don’t fool God, he says.

“For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known. Therefore whatsoever you have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which you have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.” (Luke 12:2 & 3) Many of us believe that if God really knew us, He couldn’t possibly love us. Our shame can cause us to “hide” from God, which is not only impossible to do, but also the exact opposite of what He wants.

Adam and Eve tried hiding in the garden, after sinning, but it didn’t go well, to say the least. They only managed to distance themselves, and the rest of us, from God, until Christ arrived to undo the damage.

“And they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden. Then the Lord God called to Adam and said to him, ‘Where are you?’ So he [Adam] said, ‘I heard your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; and I hid myself.’” (Genesis 3:8-10) No one hides from God. And not one of His children needs to. God knows what we’re made of and loves us anyway. We’re not “good enough” to earn His love. Jesus Christ is. To ignore this is to ignore all that Christ accomplished for us on the cross.

Through Christ, the bridge between God and people was rebuilt.

Because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions – it is by grace you have been saved.” (Ephesians 2:4) Seek, don’t hide. Embrace the grace! ❚ – Janine Pumilia 12

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Tasty Farm-to-Table Bites W

onderful food, worthy to be shared with family, begins with only the finest, most wholesome ingredients.

Bring the farm-fresh flavor to any meal, any time of day.

Tasty Bites

Perfect for gatherings or just a delicious weeknight nosh, this crostini recipe features potatoes, a nutritional powerhouse for any meal. For recipes and more, visiteatwisconsinpotatoes.com.

Roasted Potato Crostini w/ Pesto Cheese Servings: 8 Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes Non-stick cooking spray 1/3 pound (4 medium) Wiscon sin Red or Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices 1/2 tsp. garlic salt 3/4 cup (6 ounces) soft cream cheese 1/4 cup prepared pesto 1/4-1/2 tsp. red pepper sauce (optional) 1/4 cup finely chopped pre pared roasted red peppers Snipped fresh chives or minced green onion (optional) Heat oven to 400 degrees F. Spray baking sheet with cooking spray. Arrange potatoes in single layer; spray lightly with additional cooking spray. Sprinkle evenly with 1/4 tsp. garlic salt.

Roast 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and browned, turning over halfway and sprinkling with remaining garlic salt.

Meanwhile, in small bowl, mix together cream cheese, pesto and red pepper sauce, if desired. Pipe or spoon about 2 teaspoons pesto mixture onto each potato; top with red pepper. Sprinkle with chives, if desired.

Nutritional information per serving: 157 calories; 10 g fat; 4 g protein; 2 g fiber; 10 g cholesterol; 285 mg sodium.

Create Your Own Popcorn Snack

Popcorn is a true farm-to-table snack because it’s a seed taken from the husk, dried, then popped. Delicious hot from the popper, popcorn is also easy to flavor with just about any seasonings you have on hand. Whether you want a pinch of sugar and cinnamon, garlic powder and oregano, or parmesan cheese and rosemary - the options are limitless. For recipes and more, visitpopcorn.org.

Glazed Lemon and Poppy Seed Popcorn Yield: 4 quarts 4 quarts unbuttered and unsalted popcorn (air popped) 1 egg white 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon lemon extract 2 teaspoons lemon zest 1 teaspoon poppy seeds

Heat oven to 300 degrees F. Line large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper (or foil sprayed with cooking spray). Spread popcorn onto prepared baking sheet.

In small bowl, whisk together egg white, sugar, salt and lemon extract until foamy. Mix in lemon zest and poppy seeds. Pour over popcorn and toss to coat evenly.

Bake 20 minutes, stirring once midway through baking time. Cool completely before storing in airtight container. ❚ Source: Family Features

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Y O

Second Rockford Vintage Market is July 18

By Rachel Shore

A

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Friday Saturday

July 17 &Da18 ys During Brat

Your favorite Edgebrook shops and restaurants will be outside enjoying the summer sun with great offers and events.

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Edgebrook offers a unique blend of eclectic boutique shops, excellent restaurants and convenient service-oriented businesses. For a complete listing of merchants and events, visit edgebrookshops.com 1639 N. Alpine Rd • Rockford, Illinois • 815.226-0212 • orputcompanies.com

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Green Co. Fair Continued from Cover

Highlights include a performance by country singer Craig Campbell; the Three Hills Rodeo; agriculture competitions galore; an American Idol-type talent show; a national Tug-O-War competition; and lawn mower racing. The fair takes place on the county fairgrounds, 2600 10th St., in Monroe, Wis. Campbell will take the stage at 7 p.m. Friday. Born in Lyons, Ga., he has made his way to fame with two albums, “Craig Campbell” in 2011 and “Never Regret” in 2013. He has six singles that made it to the country charts and his newest song, “Tomorrow Tonight,” was released in June. The opening act is the Zac Matthews Band from Janesville.

After a couple of years with no headliner, people started asking for more entertainment, says Steve Mayer, entertainment chairman. Campbell is expected to draw a big crowd.

“We’re trying to do what we can to make our fair more attractive for all

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people,” says Mayer. “The fair has always been a big draw for those in 4-H and in Future Farmers of America (FFA), but we want the general public to enjoy it, too, while learning more about our agricultural community.

“Fewer and fewer people are born on a farm and it’s a good experience for people to see the animals and get a taste of agriculture,” notes Mayer. “So many people don’t know where our food comes from and there needs to be a greater appreciation for the animals.”

Many fairs no longer open competition to people of all ages, restrict it to youths. But Green County is exceptional as an agricultural community and has kept the open competition available for adults.

“We consistently have about 700 youths competing in all categories each year. Green County has great 4-H leaders, agricultural teachers, and youth organizations. Family and club leaders make it a priority to find projects for the kids and watch them learn and grow. For many of

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the kids, they work year round to have an award-winning project, whether raising livestock or making crafts. Many of these kids will be leaders and students of agriculture, which is a good reflection on their parents and the community,” Miranda says.

Miranda knows the business first hand. Having grown up on a farm, she was involved in 4-H as a young child, joined FFA in high school, became an agriculture teacher, and married a dairy farmer. The couple moved from the State of Oregon, four years ago, to a 300-acre farm in Juda, Wis. They have since downsized and live in Janesville.

R  O R “Farming always kept me busy and out of trouble,” says Miranda. “It gives you an opportunity to focus on something positive. As I learned more and my skillset grew, I was involved in all kinds of projects, but it all had a tremendous positive effect on my life. It’s how I met my husband, and all my family and friends have the same passion. Whether or not these kids make a career of agriculture, they are making great memories,” she says.

Mayer discovered lawnmower racing at a fair convention this winter. Much appreciated in Central and Northern Wisconsin, The Wisconsin Lawnmower Racing Association was looking for a venue in Southern Wisconsin.

“And we were looking for some new, fun family entertainment,” he says.

“These aren’t your usual lawnmowers.

They can reach speeds of up to 50 miles per hour,” he says.

The races will begin at 7 p.m.

Saturday in the Grandstand.

Earlier that day, teams from around the country will compete in the National Tug-O-War competition to be held at 10

a.m. at the fairgrounds infield. The event is sponsored by Colony Brands.

Kristin Bansley, fair secretary and concessions chairman, says a lot of the most popular food vendors are returning and others will be making their debut at the fairgrounds this year.

Cheese curds sold by the Optimists are always a big hit. “People come from all over just for the curds,” says Bansley.Other non-profits that supply food and beverages include the Lions, VFW, Knights of Columbus and Foreign Legion. The Green County Ag Chest sells cream puffs, ice cream and sundaes.

Fresh-squeezed lemonade and gyros are favorites, too.

This year will be the first time North American Midway will offer amusement rides. Five to six new rides will be introduced, with a bigger focus on entertainment for teens and younger children.

The Junior American Talent Competition mimics American Idol and the winners will compete in the Wisconsin State Fair later this summer. Last year, the winners in both the youth and teen division were from Green County.

The Green County Fair is and always has been a non-profit project of the Green County Agricultural and Mechanical Institute. It takes a lot of effort and volunteer power to keep it all going.

In cooperation with area schools and local libraries, the Green County Reading Program encourages summer reading by offering kids ages K-12 reduced admission for a Midway bracelet, if they’ve read five books so far this summer.

A lunch hour special offers free admission for those wanting to enjoy fair food while on break from work. Offered on Thursday and Friday, in past years, it will also be available on Wednesday this year.

Gates will be open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day and general admission is $8 for adults, $3 for children ages 8-12, and free for children under 8. Sunday is Pioneer Day, with an antique tractor pull, cheese and dairy auctions, and a demolition derby. Seniors pay $5 for an all-day pass. Parking is $3. For more information, contact the fair office at (608) 3259159 or go online at greencountyfair. com. ❚

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

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Y H

Know the ABCDEs of Skin Cancer Y

our risk of developing skin cancer increases with age, which is why it becomes more important to have regular skin cancer screenings and to stay informed about skin cancer symptoms as you grow older.

Dermatologists Dr. Roger Kapoor and Dr. Paul Segal, who have offices at both Beloit Clinic and NorthPointe Clinic, share some insight here.

What Types of Skin Cancer Are There?

Skin cancer falls into two primary categories: nonmelanoma and melanoma.

“Nonmelanoma skin cancers (basal and squamous cell cancers) are the more common and less deadly of the two types,” says Kapoor. “They generally form in the top layer of skin in areas routinely exposed to sunlight. They may take different forms including a scaly reddish patch, a pearly or waxy bump or an open sore.”

Melanomas are less common than nonmelanomas, but are the leading cause of skin cancer-related deaths. A mela-

noma can appear on normal skin or may begin as a mole or birthmark that begins to change in appearance. It also tends to form on parts of the body with high exposure to sunlight.

Who is Most at Risk?

Although skin cancer can occur in young people, the risk of developing it increases as you age. Other factors that may increase your risk include: • Having fair skin, eyes and hair pigmentation.

• Being exposed to large amounts of sunlight.

• Experiencing one or more blistering sunburns as a child.

• Using tanning devices.

• Having a relative who has developed skin cancer.

Becoming familiar with the risks and symptoms of skin cancer can help with early detection and keep you healthy.

Call a dermatologist if you have questions about potentially cancerous growths or about your risk for skin cancer. ❚

Symptoms of Skin Cancer Learn the ABCDEs, or, the asymmetry, borders, colors, diameter and evolution, of a mole or growth. Ask yourself the following: Asymmetry: Is half of the mole different from the other half?

Borders: Are the edges irregular?

Color: Do the colors vary?

Diameter: Is the growth larger than 6 millimeters in diameter?

Evolution: Is the mark constantly changing?

“Symptoms of nonmelanoma skin cancer to look out for include a sore that bleeds easily and doesn’t heal, irregular vessels in or around a sore, or a sore with a depression in the middle,” Kapoor adds.

“If you notice a growth, mole or birthmark with these symptoms, it’s a good idea to have it looked at by a doctor.”

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

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Exhibit: Mind, Spirit & Emotion July 14-Aug. 29. An exhibit in which the artist’s mind, spirit and emotions show in the work. Two-dimensional artwork created in any medium. The Next Picture Show, 113 W. First St., Dixon, Ill. (815) 285-4924, thenextpictureshow.com.

Family Friday Journey to Mars July 17, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Become part of the engineering team that designs the wheels for a Mars Rover. $8/members free. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

Lafayette County Fair July 15-19, daily. FFA and 4-H exhibits/ judging, tractor pull, carnival, stock car races, entertainment. Lafayette County Fairgrounds, 701 E. Louisa St., Darlington, Wis., (608) 776-4828, lafayettecountyfair. org.

“Planes: Fire and Rescue” July 17, dusk. Dane Cook and Ed Harris star in the Pixar-animated tale about a group of racing planes-turned-firefighters. Free. Friday Night Flix, Davis Park, Rockford, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com.

Starlight Theatre: “The Last Five Years” July 15-19, 8 p.m. Two 20-something New Yorkers fall in and out of love over the course of five years. The show’s unconventional structure sees Cathy, the woman, telling her story backwards while Jamie, the man, tells his story chronologically; the two storylines converge just once, in the middle of the show. Starlight Theatre, Rock Valley College (RVC), 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford, (815) 9212160.

Lennox Barnett & Daybreak July 15, 5 p.m. Tunes on the Terrace.

Food and beverages for sale. Free.

Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. 2nd St., Rockford, (815) 987-8858, Rockfordparkdistrict.org.

Miles Nielsen & The Rusted Hearts July 16, 7 p.m. Free. Sinnissippi Band Shell, Sinnissippi Park, Rockford.

Rockfordparkdistrict.org.

Alpine Kiwanis Brat Days July 17-18, Fri. 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. All proceeds benefit local nonprofits. Sponsored by Alpine Kiwanis organization. Three Rockford locations: Edgebrook, 1639 N. Alpine Road; Schnucks, N. Alpine & Harlem roads; Schnucks, 6410 E. State St. Live music.

Info: (815) 979-5249, alpinekiwanis-il. com.

Peter and Lou Berryman July 18, 7-9 p.m. Food and soft beverages for sale. Concerts on the Creek series. Free. Spring Creek United Church of Christ, Rockford, (815) 877-2576, ext.

103, springcreekucc.org.

MBTL: BoDeans July 18, 7:30 p.m. Waukesha boys Sam Llanas and Kurt Neumann have forged a signature sound of heartfelt lyrics and ringing guitars. Ferro Pavilion, GWC, Williams Bay, musicbythelake.com.

Art on the Lawn July 19, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. The Rockford outdoor art fair sets up at its new home, Klehm Arboretum. The juried fine art show features a wide variety of media by area artists. Klehm Arboretum, Rockford, (815) 965-8146.

Benjamin Burnley will perform at BMO Harris Bank Center on July 22.

Green County Fair July 22-26, daily. Youth exhibits, animal shows & auctions, entertainment, food stands, carnival. Green County Fairgrounds, 2600 10th St., Monroe, Wis., (608) 325-9159, greencountyfair.net.

Woodsong: The Jimmys July 19, 6 p.m. This blues powerhouse combines blues, R&B and funk sounds for a showstopper with drumming, bass and a horn selection. Woodsong Summer Series. Klehm Arboretum, Rockford, (815) 965-8146.

Evenings in the Garden: Jon Troast July 21, 5:45 p.m. Formerly of Lake Geneva, this Nashville musician plays a wide range of music, from folk and rock to country, alternative and Christian.

Opening Act: Bob Nanna. Food and beverages for sale, picnics OK but no carry-in beverages. $5 non-members. Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford, (815) 2299390, andersongardens.org.

Ice Cream Social and Artists in the Park July 19, noon-4 p.m. Ice cream, cake, chips & beverages; artists displaying their work; music by The Mill Road Band. Beckman Mill, 8606 S. County Road H, Beloit, (608) 751-1551, beckmanmill.org.

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

Kishwaukee Fest July 20-27, daily. Events all week: live music, carnival, farmers market, Fri. parade, Sat. bacon festival, car show, Sun. wild west shootout. Downtown DeKalb, Ill. Info: (815) 756-1263, kishwaukeefestival.com.

Breaking Benjamin July 22, 8 p.m. Over the past decade, this rock group, led by Benjamin Burnley, has achieved worldwide success through its chart-topping music. BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford, (815) 9685222, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com. ❚

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Restaurant of the Week

Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint Sizzles

By Paul Anthony Arco, senior staff writer

B

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Main Street Bistro E Upscale-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. $$.

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. $$.

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

Sun 8am-5pm. $.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jayme Braasch

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

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

In the Spotlight

T

Alchemy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Outsmart Mosquitoes

By Janine Pumilia

A

mple rain in 2015 means this is a terrible year for mosquito bites, in our region. Itchy discomfort aside, most bites don’t cause major health problems.

Still, the odds of serious disease transmission grow with every season. A dead bird found in Rockton, Ill., this month, tested positive for West Nile Virus. The virus has existed in Winnebago County for 14 years, but this is the earliest date in the season any animal has tested positive.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that all people wear insect repellent, including pregnant women and children. It’s safe when used as directed, states the CDC. It recommends: • Products containing DEET such as Cutter, OFF!, and Skintastic (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin) • Products containing picaridin including Cutter Advanced and Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus.

• Products including Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD such as Repel and Off! Botanicals • Products containing IR3535 such as Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus Expedition and SkinSmart.

Mosquitoes that spread West Nile Virus bite at night from dusk to dawn.

There are no medications to treat the virus and no vaccines to prevent it. Most infected people have no symptoms. The CDC reports that about 1 in 5 will develop a fever with other symptoms. Less than 1 percent will develop a serious, sometimes fatal, neurologic illness such as encephalitis or meningitis (swelling of the brain or surrounding tissues).

In 2014, 48 states and the District of Columbia reported more than 2,200 cases of West Nile Virus, says the CDC. In addition to wearing repellant, the CDC recommends wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, when weather permits, and taking measures to keep insects outdoors, such as using air conditioning or making sure that window and door screens are repaired. ❚

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Save Money When Back-to-School Shopping I

f the cost of school shopping is adding stress to your household, ease the burden with these helpful tips.

Make note of your inventory. School lists often carry over each school year, so make sure you aren’t buying multiples of things you already own.

Make a list with your children. Put everything you need on that list, and be clear that once the list is done, it’s done.

Having everyone on the same page with a complete list helps ensure nothing vital is forgotten, and the list can serve as a handy tool to keep your budget in check.

Using vibrant Sarasa gel pens by Zebra to create color-coded lists can make your shopping more manageable for you and more engaging for the kids.

Begin shopping as early as possible.

Hunt bargains before the traditional backto-school season to get the best deals. Not only will you save some cash, shopping before the rush will give you a wider se-

lection. Spreading the shopping over several weeks or months also allows you to distribute the expense across several pay periods.

Check out your favorite brands and retailers online, and sign up for their email alerts, so you’ll be in the know when the best deals hit. Watch ads closely.

Create a back-up bin at home. You may find that your kids consistently run out of certain items midyear. Devote a special area of your home to keep extras in stock, and take advantage of sales or buy in bulk to get a better price.

Put quality ahead of price. While it’s tempting to go for cheap when your list is long, remember that sometimes quality buys actually save more in the long run.

Involve your kids in the back-toschool shopping process by giving them a budget. Help them allocate money for all the expenses, including clothing, school supplies, shoes and more. Use the oppor-

tunity to talk about how shopping smart for the necessities can leave room for some fun buys, too.

Reduce and reuse. Encourage kids to embrace reusable items, such as lunch bags in place of paper sacks and plastic containers instead of sandwich bags. Remember: school shopping can be fun! ❚ (Source: Family Features. Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

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Issue 1