Smart Living Weekly - June 22, 2016

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Special Tourism Issue: Welcome to Our Region!

n iving g Sm mart a r t L ivi ivin ng Weekly See Inside for Tourism Attractions, Events, Entertainment, Dining & More

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Right in Our Region

Drew Baldridge Headlines 29th ByronFest

By Sarah Soenke, deputy editor

D

espite its growth every year, ByronFest keeps its small-town, family-friendly appeal center stage. The 29th annual ByronFest, running July 8-10 throughout the downtown Byron area, returns with a balance of small- and big-name entertainment, carnival rides, sporting events, the Taste of ByronFest, beer gardens, a car show, a parade and more. Drew Baldridge, country

artist from Patoka, Ill., will be headlining this year’s music lineup.

“Last year, we tried something new and got some up-and-coming acts to join our local talent on the rock and country stages, and so we did that again this year,” says Deanna Mershon, executive director of the Byron Chamber of Commerce, which organizes the event.

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! Heritage Days in Belvidere • Big Cat Tourney in Rock Falls • Landscaping Tips Rockford Plate Event at Midway Village • Dining at Butterfly Club • Fruity Summer Recipes

Smart Living Weekly

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Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • June 22, 2016

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June 22 To advertise call 815-316-2300

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 22 Byronfest!

Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Love Your Landscape Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 240 Years Ago ....

Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Summery Treats Your Health ............................................. .......... 25 All About Wellness Your Fun ................................................... ......... 27 Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 29 Your Outings .....................................17,29,30,33 Heritage Days, Rockford Plate, Big Cat Quest, Anderson Japanese Gardens

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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June 22 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Summer Solstice

A

s Midsommar Fest reminded us on Saturday, the longest day of the year has come and gone. That thought makes me sad, but also reminds me that we dare not waste these precious days of summer.

Gorockford.com, the newly updated website of our partner, The Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, is a good place to get a comprehensive look at what’s happening each day in our region.

In the 12 years since we launched Northwest Quarterly Magazine, we’ve written quite a lot about the festivals and fairs in our area. I’m constantly amazed at the way they keep getting bigger and better. These events require so much planning and effort, and most of that effort is volunteer. To me that says a lot about the personality and character of our people. We still want to celebrate life together and we’re willing to get out and make things happen for one another. It also tells me we take a lot of pride in our heritage and the things that make each of our communities unique.

Much is written about our tendency toward isolation in this modern, plugged-in society, with good reason. Still, it’s clear that the desire to enjoy life collectively is alive and well. The unexpectedly huge response to weekly events like Rockford City Market, Dinner on the Docks and Tuesday Evenings in the Garden is an indicator that a sense of community really is important to us.

In our office, we’ve been working hard to finish the next issue of Northwest Quarterly Magazine, which means it will be in your hands very soon. As always, we’re proud to showcase the best of life our region has to offer, with stories and stunning photos about the people, places, events, history, wildlife and other unique features that make our Midwest home the place we cherish above all others. Get your complimentary copy by visiting one of the hundreds of advertising partners who support us.

Seize the days! ❚ Janine Pumilia Executive Editor Tell themyou yousaw saw it in Tell them in ... ...Smart Living Weekly

June 22

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Rockford City Market

Every Friday in Downtown Rockford May 20 - September 30 rockfordcitymarket.com Presented by

Experience Downtown Rockford

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June 22 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Y H  G

Project Time: How to Love Your Landscape

By Sarah Soenke

S

o you have an idea of how you’d like your landscape to look, but you’re not sure how to get started. What to do?

“All you need to do is come in with a general idea of what you want to accomplish, and we can help you find the right materials and pieces to put it together,” says Andy Benson, president of Benson Stone Co. “Especially if you want to do the project yourself, we have employees here who have been doing this for 25 years and know the ins and outs of how to do it right the first time. You don’t want to put a lot of time and work into building your own retaining wall, for example, only to have it topple over in a few years.”

This 86-year-old, fifth-generation family business carries many full product lines of landscaping materials in its main showroom, at 1100 Eleventh Street, from decorative gravel and mulch to patios and composite decking. Much of the business

relates to paving brick, flagstone and steppers for walkways, patios and driveways.

Its masonry also extends to stone and concrete retaining, garden and seat walls; outcropping stone; and decorative boulders.

Benson Stone Co. also stocks a range of outdoor kitchen elements, fireplaces, fire pits, standard barbeque grills and outdoor lighting. Outdoor kitchens and LED lighting are especially popular, these days, says Benson.

“LEDs are great because they don’t use nearly as much power, so you can wire more of them into a single transformer, spend less on electricity and replace the bulbs less frequently.”

The business houses one of area’s largest selections of advanced gas, charcoal and electric grills; smokers; pizza

ovens; and a range of grilling accessories.

The outdoor kitchen of your dreams can be accessorized with additional storage, outdoor refrigerators and granite counter tops.

“For do-it-yourselfers, our staff experts are here to offer landscaping ideas, knowledge and advice,” says Benson.

“Of course, we can also refer customers to our own trusted contractors and designers that we know are the best in the area.” ❚

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June 22

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I  W

‘Created Equal’

Imperfect though our government is, the ideals we embrace as a democratic republic still shine as a beacon of hope for people across the globe.

May we make the effort to understand them and never take them for granted – and may we seek to live up to the truly revolutionary concept, put forth by both God and our nation’s founders, that all people are indeed created equal.

In honor of the upcoming Independence Day holiday, we reprint here the first portion of the Declaration of Independence, brilliantly penned by Thomas Jefferson and signed by 56 men on July 4, 1776 ... 240 years ago.

W

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

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

– That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed –That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.

Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations ... ❚ 12

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June 22 To advertise call 815-316-2300

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Y K

Apples Bring Flavor for the Perfect Picnic T

here’s nothing like the perfect picnic or barbecue to slow down and reconnect with friends and family. This season, gather together guests and surprise them with a rustic backyard picnic, starring delicious new recipes that bring out the flavor of apples – a versatile and healthy year-round fruit.

Filled with healthy antioxidants, fiber, vitamins and minerals, apples add a flavorful twist to classic picnic fare.

For a refreshing treat that both kids and adults will love, try the Strawberry Banana Smoothie Popsicle, made with Tree Top Apple Juice. Or grill some Spiced Pork and Apple Burgers with Maple Dijon, made with Tree Top Apple Sauce for a lean and juicy burger.

For more recipes and inspiration, visit treetop.com.

Spiced Pork and Apple Burger with Maple Dijon

a patty, spinach leaf and bun top. If desired, toast buns and top with cheddar cheese, grilled onions, pickles, tomatoes or other favorite toppings.

Serve with sweet potato fries and steamed beans.

Strawberry Banana Smoothie Popsicles Ingredients:

• 1 cup Tree Top Apple Juice • 1 pint strawberries, hulled, sliced and frozen • 1 banana, sliced and frozen • 1 apple, peeled, cored, sliced and frozen • 6 ounces vanilla yogurt • 1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions: Put all ingredients in a blender and

process until smooth. Pour into ice pop forms or paper cups.

Place ice pop sticks in center and freeze, inverted, for 3 hours or until solid.

Keep frozen until ready to serve. ❚ – Source: Family Features

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons maple syrup • 2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard • 2 pounds ground pork • 1/2 cup Tree Top Natural Apple Sauce • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt • 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder • 1 teaspoon dry mustard • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 6 hamburger buns • Baby Spinach leaves

Directions: Stir maple syrup and mustard together in a small bowl. Set aside. Spray a large non-stick grill pan or griddle with cooking spray and place over medium to medium high heat.

Mix pork, apple sauce, salt, chili powder, dry mustard, pepper and cinnamon together in a large mixing bowl.

Form mixture into 6 patties. Place patties in pan and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, turn and cook additional 4 to 5 minutes or until done.

To serve, spread bun bottoms with maple mustard mixture. Top each with Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

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June 22 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Y O

Belvidere Pride to Shine at Heritage Days

By Peggy Werner

W

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

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

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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June 22

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R  O R

ByronFest Continued from Cover

Baldridge and opener Ruthie Collins, country singer-songwriter, perform Saturday night starting at 8 p.m. Keith Semple, Northern Irish singer, musician and Top 20 finalist on “The Voice,” heads the rock stage lineup starting Friday night. The three-day festival also features local acts Olivia Dvorak, Byron Civic Center, Desolation Row, Prowler, Amperage, Sunset Strip and SoapStone.

A pre-festival Gospel Fest kicks off the entertainment Thursday night, and nonmusical entertainment includes a magician and nonprofit-fundraising dunk tank.

The three-day festival attracted about 30,000 visitors to the city of 3,800 residents last year, says Mershon, and this year is set to do the same. Many of last year’s successful tweaks and additions will continue for ByronFest 2016.

On Saturday morning, registration

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for the 5K and 1-mile Family Fun Run begins at 7 a.m., an hour before the races start, at the Jarrett Prairie Center, 7993 N. River Road. The third-annual ByronFest Fitness Challenge begins at 10 a.m., followed by the bags tournament.

“We want the Fitness Challenge to be something that anyone can see and want to do,” says Sarah Downs, festival manager. “So to make it seem less intimidating, we lowered the registration cost to $20, which includes a festival admission wristband and one beer.”

The timed course features eight obstacles in two heats, including tire hits, a shuttle run, man makers, full crunches, a wall box, heavy jump rope and a sled pull. New this year, two bonus events allow team and individual competitors to shave seconds off their total times. First, second and third-place individual winners are named for the overall best time, while group winners are named for the top four best combined times and the most people in a group.

June 22 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Another recent addition is the PrairieView Golf Club’s second annual ByronFest Open on Sunday morning. The event features a four-person scramble from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“We are excited to be approaching our 30th anniversary for this festival, and that means we are certainly always looking for new and fresh ideas,” says Mershon. “What we have now is already pretty impressive for such a small town.”

Even the popular Taste of ByronFest, located along Second Street, has grown to include more options this year. More than 20 vendors cover a diverse variety of food, from traditional carnival fare to Greek and Chinese dishes. The local Kiwanis Club of Byron, the Byron Lions Club and the Dakota Cheerleaders also return to fundraise through food sales.

The Taste of ByronFest and beer gardens are open 5 p.m.-midnight Friday; 11 a.m.midnight Saturday; and 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sunday.

“We increased our covered seating,

R  O R

so we now have three 20-by-30 foot tents that people can sit under and enjoy,” says Downs.

Food and beer vendors accept tickets only, which are available for $1 each at three ticket booths on the festival grounds. Carnival ride tickets and booths are separate. Admission wristbands may be purchased in advance for $5, either online or from Byron merchants, or for $8 at the gate. Children ages 7 and younger get

in free all weekend, and wristbands are not required for Sunday, the Family Day of the festival.

The weekend also hosts a quilt show all three days at the Byron Museum of History and the Lucius Read House, 110 N. Union St., and the Hib Reber Memorial Car Show on Saturday at the United Church of Byron, 701 W. Second St. The ByronFest Parade is the cornerstone event on Sunday, with more than 50 groups participating in the route running from Maple and Second streets to Third and Market streets.

This year’s presenting sponsor, Byron Bank, has been supporting the festival for more than 20 years. “The Chamber employees and the ByronFest Steering

Committee work very hard to make this one of the best family festivals in northern Illinois,” says Gail Barton, vice president of marketing for Byron Bank. “Byron Bank is proud to be a part of it.”

The festival raises an average of $30,000 each year for participating nonprofits, says Downs, making it not only the year’s largest fundraiser for the chamber, but for those organizations as well.

This means over the past 29 years, ByronFest has helped raise more than $700,000 to benefit the community.

“Byron is such a close-knit town, and it takes more than 300 volunteers to make this festival happen every year,” says Downs. “The awesome heart of Byron really shines through this festival. Every time you come up to a booth, you can meet a volunteer that lives here and wants you to have fun and support our town.”

For more information about ByronFest and to register for events, visit byronfest.org, facebook.com/byronfest or call (815) 234-5500. ❚

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June 22

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June 22

Y H

Conventional and Alternative Medicine Can Coexist

By Peggy Werner

D

r. Kimberly Williams, owner of Rockford Wellness Center, believes in not having to make a choice between conventional medicine and alternative treatments when caring for our health.

Her personal experience of seeing her family make its way to total health with the help of a local chiropractor inspired her to do the same for others.

Ten years ago, she opened Rockford Wellness Center and is celebrating that anniversary with a Wellness Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 25, at the business’s new and bigger location at 6019 Fincham Drive.

The fair will feature products and information from 20 vendors; face painting; a bounce house and other activities for children; and talks from area health care specialists about a variety of topics such as meditation, yoga, physical therapy and more.

“Our goal is to become a central hub

of wellness in the area, where traditional and alternative medicine can meet and work together and help patients become whole. It doesn’t have to be a choice of one or the other,” she says.

As a graduate of the National University of Health Sciences with a Doctor of Chiropractic degree, Williams received special training in acupuncture, botanical medicine and women’s health.

She combines her areas of expertise with those of team members to offer patients help through traditional and alternative medicine, including acupuncture, massage, hair and saliva analysis, oxygen therapy, nutritional counseling and more.

“Conventional medicine focuses on symptom treatment, while our approach is to search for the root problem,” she says. She addresses lifestyle issues such as work, diet and exercise and how they are impacting one’s health.

Currently, Williams is complet-

Wellness Fair

10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, June 25 6019 Fincham Drive, Rockford

ing her National board exams for her Diplomate from the American Board of Chiropractic Internist. She is a member of the American Chiropractic Association, Illinois State Chiropractic Association, and the Christian Chiropractors Association.

The Max Effect, an organic juice bar and bistro, is expected to open at the location in early July, and will feature organic smoothies and fresh squeezed juices. ❚

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June 22

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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

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

Bass Pro Shop's Big Cat Quest Tournament June 24-26. Watch angler teams compete to produce a prize-winning Top 5 catfish. Enjoy fireworks on Sat. Rock Falls Riverfront Venue, Rockford, IL 61101 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com 201 E. 2nd St., Rock Falls, Ill., (731) 234-1888, kenfreemanoutdoorpromotions.com.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

Women on Water: Kayaking June 22 & 29, 10 a.m.-noon. Enjoy paddling in a low-key setting with Rocktown Adventures. This women’s-only paddle meets at the store, where you’ll get outfitted and review safety instructions, before heading out on the water. Rocktown Adventures, 313 N. Madison St., Rockford, (815) 636-9066, rocktownadventures.com.

Tunes on the Terrace: Lennox Barnett June 22, 6 p.m. Enjoy a free concert located along the banks of the Rock River. Food and beverages available for purchase. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. 2nd St., Rockford, (815) 9878858, nicholasconservatory.com.

“The Phantom of the Opera” June 22-25, Wed.-Sat. 8 p.m., Sat. matinee 2 p.m.; July 20-24, 8 p.m. Witness Andrew Lloyd Webber’s award-winning turn on the tale of the disfigured musical genius, hidden away in the Paris Opera House, who terrorizes the opera company for the unwitting benefit of his young protegee, Christine. Starlight Theatre, Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford, (815) 921-2160, rvcstarlight.com.

RAMP’s Wine & Beer Tasting June 23, 5-7:30 p.m. RAMP’s annual wine and beer tasting with a silent auction is the first event to occur at The Standard, Rockford’s new event venue including two rooftop bars. Tour the new space and taste wine, beer, hors d’oeuvres, cheese, olive oil and dessert. Music from The Groove Hotel Band. The Standard, 214 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 968-7467, rampcil.org.

Cruise-In to the Guys Who Gave Us Rock June 24, 5 p.m. Explore the classic cars and take a journey through musical history entitled “The Guys Who Gave Us Rock.” Rockford Auto Museum, 518 Walnut St. & 225 S. 3rd St., Rockford, (815) 979-2990, rockfordautomuseum.com.

River District 12 Bike Tour June 25, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. River District 12 is a 12-

Join Rocktown Adventures for a women's-only paddle on June 22 & 29.

hour bike tour designed to promote bike safety and awareness, provide a bike view of the River District and build the community’s foundation.

River District Association, 223 E. State St., Ste. 202, Rockford, (815) 398-8021, riverdistrict12. com.

When I Grow Up June 24, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. What will you be when you grow up? Meet men and women who work in our town and enjoy hands-on activities related to their fields. Discovery Center, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

Concerts on the Creek: Lone Canary June 25, 7-9 p.m. Enjoy music from Lone Canary, a folk/Americana duo. Pizza from Mamma Mia’s, canned soda, bottled water and popcorn available. Spring Creek United Church of Christ, Rockford, (815) 877-2576, springcreekucc.org.

AJG: The O’s June 28, 5:45 p.m., doors 5 p.m. Tuesday Evening in the Gardens concert series. The O’s meld country, fold, Americana and pop influences. Refreshments available. Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford, 318 Spring Creek Road, (815) 229-9390, andersongardens.org.

Patriotic Concert: “Hooray for the USA” June 28, 7 p.m. Enjoy a patriotic concert performed by the Rockford Concert Band.

Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 1401 N. 2nd St., Rockford, rockfordfireandice.com. ❚

For More Attractions & Events Visit GoRockford.com Tell them you saw it in ...

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June 22

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Butterfly Club: A True Wisconsin Supper Club

By Sarah Soenke

S

tep back in time at The Butterfly Club, 5246 E. Co. Road X, in Beloit, where the atmosphere and fare of America’s traditional supper clubs lives on. This longtime fine dining destination features fresh dishes, a well-stocked bar, regular live entertainment and a rich history, making it one of Beloit’s most treasured hotspots.

In 1924, Hal and Mae Sherburne purchased five acres and opened the original Butterfly Tea Room, named for the yellow and white butterflies in the surrounding fields. Subsequent owners added a new kitchen, dining room and cocktail lounge in the 1950s and ’60s, allowing the restaurant to host live entertainers. Even after a fire destroyed it in 1972, the Butterfly Club was quickly rebuilt. Its new owners, the Camboni family, expanded the menu and added a deck.

Mike Sala

Since 1994, brothers Mike and Hektor Sala have lovingly overseen this retro mainstay. They brightened the decor and tweaked the menu, but otherwise kept the historic flair of the restaurant intact.

“We feel we have the best lounge within 100 miles,” Mike says. “The lay-

out is beautiful – large windows with great views and big, comfortable chairs.

It’s the way a supper club should be.”

Menu favorites include the 8-oz. prime rib, served with three Honduran shrimp; the shrimp de jonghe, baked with onions and mushrooms in a pastry shell; and the Alaskan king crab legs, which come as a full-pound serving with drawn butter. Specials include a Friday fish fry and prime rib on Tues.and Thurs.

“We’re known for our steaks,” Mike says. “And everything we serve is fresh and seasoned to perfection.”

The Butterfly Club hosts many private parties. Live entertainment by Mike Williamson is presented in the lounge every Fri. and Sat. at 7 p.m., except the last Friday of every month.

Butterfly Club is open Tues.-Thurs.

5-9 p.m., Fri. 4:30 p.m.-10 p.m., Sat. 5 p.m.-10 p.m. and Sun. noon-8 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. $$.

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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 22 To advertise call 815-316-2300

D

Dos Reales

os Reales, 5855 E. State St., Rockford, has been serving up authentic Mexican fare and signature margaritas, along with some American fare, since 1998.

Its recently updated menu features a burrito cheesesteak and chimichangas, along with newer items such as 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. Dos Reales offers glutenfree options, and dishes are mild unless a guest requests spicy.

“We prepare everything from scratch and purchase our products from local sources,” says Jose Gonzalez, Dos Reales’s manager.

Dos Reales is open Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and Fri.-Sat. until 10:30 p.m. ❚

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

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

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

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

• AJG’s popular Tuesday Evening in the Gardens music series continues June 28 with The O’s (Dallas, Texas). Opening for them is Macyn Taylor of Milwaukee.

Find a downloadable schedule of 2016

performances under the events tab at the website. The concerts are included with regular admission cost.

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

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

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

(David Anderson photo)

A

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

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

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

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

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June 22

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The Rockford Plate: A Culinary Journey M

idway Village Museum will present “The Rockford Plate: A Culinary Journey of Early Rockford Immigrants” from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, July 7, in the museum’s 13-acre Victorian Village, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford.

The Rockford Plate Gala will transport guests to 1900-era Rockford and a village neighborhood that has opened its homes for one night so that visitors can explore the cuisine of six of Rockford’s ethnic immigrant groups. Immigrant homes will feature food, music, traditional clothing, education displays, decorations and actors portraying actual Rockford immigrants. Guests are then invited to the Main Street Celebration for live music, dancing, dessert and more.

Guests to The Rockford Plate will arrive at the Rockford train station in the year 1900 and stroll through the Victorian Village to meet immigrants who live there. The neighbors will open their

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doors so you can taste dishes prepared in ways that are representative of their home countries.

Music By Trinadora Trio and the 2015 Chicago Music Award Winner Eric Lambert Bluegrass Band will be performed. A culinary-themed silent auction will take place and a memento gift will be given to all guests.

Signature drinks will be available for purchase. Here’s a preview of the food and drink: Italian: Pasta Carbonara. Signature Drink: Lemoncello Lemonade with Birra Peroni; Swedish: Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes, Lingonberries. Signature Drink: Lingonberry Beer; AfricanAmerican: Hoppin’ Johns Black-eyed Peas, Candied Yams, Fried Chicken and Corn Bread.Signature Drink: Tangerine Sweet Tea with Van Dear Hum Liquor and Fresh Fruit Garnish. Polish: Pierogi, Smoked Sausage, Sauerkraut and Rye

June 22 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Bread. Signature Drink: Zubrowka Vodka and Apple Juice. Latino: Tacos, Rice, Beans. Signature Drink: Pineapple Jalapeno Margarita. Irish: Lamb Stew with Root Vegetables. Signature Drink: Bushmill Irish Whiskey Ginger Beer and Lime The cost of the event is $50 per person and reservations must be made by June 29. The event will take place rain or shine. Dress is business casual – wear comfortable walking shoes.

To learn more or RSVP, call (815) 397-9112, ext. 109. ❚

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Type in Gambino Realtors and download.

1.815.282.2222

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June 22

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

Save Smarter • Live Better • Every Week

Get Started at NorthwestQuarterly.com/Contest

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

This Week’s Giveaway Winner To Be Announced June 29 on the 13 WREX Morning Show 4 Tickets from the Rockford Park District Forest City Queen River Tours

Enter Now At: www.northwestquarterly.com/contest Contest Giveaway may take 4-6 weeks to be processed.

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For contest rules go to NWQSmartLiving.com

June 22 To advertise call 815-316-2300

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Big Cat Tourney, River Chase in Rock Falls A

major catfish tournament, a Summer Splash event and the Rock Falls River Chase add up to a giant weekend of activity in Rock Falls, Ill., June 24-26.

During the Bass Pro Shops Big Cat Quest Tournament Series, angler teams compete to produce a prize-winning Top 5 catfish. Fish will weigh in June 25 & 26 at 3 p.m. at the Rock Falls riverfront venue. Bring lawn chairs and enjoy the spectacle.

Cat Quest is presented by Bass Pro Shops and hosted by Rock Falls Tourism.

This is the first-ever tournament stop in Rock Falls and is the Midwest Qualifier for the 2016 National Championship to be held in Richmond, Va. There’s a guaranteed $10,000 payback in cash and prizes.

Majeski Motors will give away a truck to the person who breaks the state record for a catfish caught by hook and line. Official rules and entry information

for Big Cat Quest are found at visitrockfalls.com.

The public is invited to a free Catfishing Seminar and Meet-the-Pros event on Friday from 5-7 p.m. at the Eagles Club, 321 W. 2nd St., with celebrity angler Ken Freeman. Learn more at kenfreemanoutdoorpromotions.com or call (731) 234-1888.

Corresponding with Big Cat Quest are the Rock Falls Summer Splash and the Rock Falls River Chase.

Summer Splash includes live entertainment, a car show, pub crawl, vendors, petting zoo, a wild game cook-out and a Dale-Earnhardt Jr. race car & simulator.

The River Chase is a heart-pounding

event in which boats travel 60 mph as drivers kneel, right hand on the throttle and left hand holding onto the boat, inches above the water. New this year is the North American Championships for Jr. Class Boats.

On Saturday, June 25 at 9 p.m., enjoy a fireworks display along the Rock Falls Riverfront in celebration of these major weekend events in Rock Falls. ❚

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June 22

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June 22 To advertise call 815-316-2300

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