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Special Tourism Issue: Welcome to Our Region!

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Right in Our Region

Everyone Can Be Italian at Festa Italiana

By Peggy Werner

very year, for one weekend, everyone is Italian. This year, that weekend is Aug. 5-7 on the grounds of Boylan High School, 4000 St. Francis Dr., Rockford. “Festa Italiana is a fun family time for everyone to meet and greet each other,” says Rick Heffner, entertainment director. “It’s like one big family reunion and that’s why the event has lasted so long. People look forward to it every year.”

The Festa began 38 years ago when two men were inspired to gather the local Italian community together to celebrate the sights, sounds, foods, games, dance and culture of their ancestry – while at the same accomplishing something good. Festa proceeds go toward scholarship money for students with Italian heritage who need financial help to attend local parochial schools. 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! Mamma Mia’s Italian Carry-Out • Lots of Free Concerts this Week • High Nutrition On the Go Virtual Travel with Visitors’ Bureau • Farmers Markets • Grilled Cheese All Grown Up

Smart Living Weekly

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Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • July 20, 2016

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 22 Festa Italiana Your Home ................................................... ..... 11 Meet the New Luxury Vinyl Tile Inspiration & Worship .......................................12 The Search for Truth Your Kitchen ......................................................15 Grilled Cheese All Grown Up Your Health ............................................. ........... 25 High Nutrition on the Go Your Fun ................................................... .......... 27

Dining Locally .......................................... ......... 28 Mamma Miaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Italian Carry-Out & Catering Your Technology .......................................... .....30 Do You Overpay for Tech Services? Your Outings ..............................................9,17,26 Virtual Travel with Tourism Bureau; Farmers Markets; Outdoor Concert Roundup

Smart L iving Weekly â&#x201E;˘

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Janine Pumilia Assistant Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen 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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Let’s Go Explore

ne of our favorite things to do at home is to sit back and watch “Rick Steves Europe” or some other good travel show. No, it’s not the same as being there, but it’s awfully enjoyable to roam the streets of Paris or explore an Italian coastal village at no cost and without sore feet. Then, when we actually do travel, we have a better idea of what to look for and what to avoid. The narration in these shows helps us to understand what we’re looking at, without the need for those dorky tourist headphones. So it interests me that Rockford’s tourism organization has teamed up with Georama to provide little travel shows accessible online to explore some of Rockford’s attractions in real-time and with 360-degree viewing. And you can learn about more than just Rockford. Georama is working with tourism groups all over Illinois. The 30-minute segments include narration and a chance for interactive Q & As. Pretty cool. And if you miss a real-time presentation, you can still pull it up online, after the fact. It always amazes me how many people living in our community have traveled the globe but haven’t visited the attractions in our own backyard. Learn more about this new “thing” at GoRockford.com/georama and in our story on p. 26. In the end, there’s no replacement for experiencing the ﬂavors, textures, scents and ambiance of a location ﬁrsthand. I’m here to tell you that a one-hour stroll through Anderson Japanese Gardens or Rock Cut State Park can completely change my mindset and give me the energy to face a new day. Winter is coming. But right now, we’re gifted with a stretch of beautiful summer days and a long list of interesting local places to experience. Making the most of them is smart living. Find ideas for concerts, shows and much more inside these pages. Enjoy! ❚ Janine Pumilia Executive Editor

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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 23: Jodi Beach; 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

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; July 26: American Aquarium of Raleigh, NC with Andrew Robinson; 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,

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.

Mich. w/Tom MacGroup; Aug. 23: Whiskey Farm of Madison, 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 21: Blooze Brothers; July 26: RSO Latin American Influence; July 28: Mason Rivers Country Band; Aug. 2: Rock Valley Summer Festival Orchestra; Aug. 4: American English Beatles Tribute; Aug. 9: Big Daddy Woo

Thursdays - Dinner on the Dock Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., 5-10 p.m., deck opens at 4 p.m. July 21: Derek Luttrell & Taboo Blah Blah; July 28: Unity the Band and Reggae Horns. Select Fridays - Music on the Mall Edgebrook, 1639 N. Alpine Road, 6:30 p.m., Edgebrookshops.com. July 22: H!p Pocket; 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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Luxury Vinyl Tile: Functional and High-Style By Janine Pumilia ust like other home materials, flooring is trending toward handsome but easy-care materials, says Kevin Rose, president of Carpetland USA Colortile, 326 N. Alpine Road, Rockford. “The most innovative new thing in the flooring world is luxury vinyl, which comes in planks (LVP) or in tiles (LVT),” says Rose. “People are thrilled with how good it looks and how well it wears.” Not to be confused with the plasticlooking vinyl floors of yesterday, luxury vinyl imitates natural wood and stone products with uncanny accuracy. The image on the surface of the vinyl is topped with a durable finish that resists stains, scratches and dents. Vinyl products are softer and warmer underfoot than real stone or tile and far easier to install, although Rose still recommends professional installation. Unlike laminate flooring, which can disintegrate in moisture, or solid wood

floors, which can warp in the Midwest’s fluctuating humidity, “Luxury vinyl is 100 percent waterproof, which means it can be used in basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens and anyplace moisture could be a problem,” says Rose. Trending now are much wider planks and much larger tile sizes. Hard surface flooring continues to gain ground over carpet. Luxury vinyl is taking market share away from laminate flooring, but solid wood and engineered wood floors are still wildly popular. We’re covering fewer square feet of our homes in carpet these days, but it’s still highly valued in certain rooms for its warmth, softness and beauty, especially in four-season climates like ours. “Carpet was probably 65 percent of our business 10 years ago and now it’s 50 percent,” says Rose. “We’re still laying a lot of carpet.” Rose says the durability of carpet

varies greatly and “you really do get what you pay for” when it comes to choosing a carpet of good fiber with adequate face weight, density and twist. Carpetland is the longest continually running flooring store in Rockford and has a second location in Sycamore, at 1719 Dekalb. ❚

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Search the Scriptures

t’s human nature to ignore a section of scripture that contradicts what we already believe or to loudly quote a scripture that backs up our personal opinion, whether or not we’ve studied it in context. While we may fool one another with scriptural distortions, we don’t fool God. And God takes a dim view of those who twist His word. “Every man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the hearts,” cautions Proverbs 21:2. It’s our responsibility to make an effort to understand God on His terms, not ours, through eyes-to-page contact with scripture. Jesus set the standard for this, learning scripture as a boy and quoting it throughout his lifetime, as when he was tempted by Satan in the desert. “It is written: Man shall not live by bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God,” he told Satan. (Matthew 4:4 NIV) While the vast majority of scripture is pretty straightforward, some of it can be confusing. The Bible has been translated several times and ways, and few of us speak Greek, Hebrew or Aramaic. Still, God promises to help us as we earnestly seek truth through His Word, by “enlightening the eyes of our understanding” (Ephesians 1:18.) We don’t need a theological degree to open the Bible and read it for ourselves. We do need a humble attitude, a prayerful mindset and persistence. It can be helpful to start small and read just a few scriptures a day and let them sink in, or even commit them to memory as Jesus did. Reading it in several translations – for example New International Version (NIV) and King James (KJV) etc. – can help us to gain a more well rounded understanding, too. Our hunger for scripture increases as we stay with it day by day. The more we understand it for ourselves, the less vulnerable we are to those who pervert it or use it carelessly, and the more excited we become as we see how truth is a living thing. “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12) Here’s to good reading. ❚

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Grilled Cheese All Grown Up: New Ideas T he grilled cheese sandwich is the type of recipe that matures as you do. The foundation begins with the right kind of bread. Ideally, it should be thick sliced, have a soft texture and a rich flavor. One example is Sara Lee Artesano Bread, which has the distinct golden crust and creamy character found in bread made from scratch. Here are three tips to inspire your next grilled cheese adventure: 1. The veggie-centric grilled cheese. Leafy greens pair beautifully with an earthy, salty cheese like Gruyere. These veggie-based sandwiches are about to go mainstream this year, as showcased in the Farm-to-table Grilled Cheese that features arugula and a broken egg yolk. 2. The Hawaiian grilled cheese. To create a luau for your taste buds, combine a sweet, buttery cheese like Havarti with a tangy barbecued meat. The barbecuedpork and pineapple Aloha Pork Grilled Cheese mixes sweetness and spice. 3. The spicy and pickled grilled cheese. You can pickle almost anything. Onions, cabbage and other items are pure magic after the fermentation process, as showcased in the Zesty Grilled Cheese sandwich that utilizes red onion and spicy, artisan pickles. Pair this with a mild, creamy Fontina cheese. Here are some tips on cheeses wellsuited to grilled sandwiches: • Havarti: Has a light, buttery, creamy taste with a mellow aroma. Pair with fruit, jam or honey for a sweet surprise. • Gouda: Has a rich, buttery, slightly sweet flavor and a smooth, creamy texture. Savory flavors complement Gouda - try it with prosciutto or tomato. • Muenster: Has a mild flavor and smooth, soft texture that stands out alone or plays well with other cheeses. Try matching Muenster with sliced avocado. • Fontina: A semi-soft cheese with a slightly sharp edge. Add fresh basil or pesto to a Fontina grilled cheese for a refreshing twist. Classic comfort foods like grilled

cheese warm the heart, but aren’t the healthiest in reputation. Elevate your grilled cheese with these healthful tricks: Get choosy with cheese: Not all cheese is created equally. Try Arla cheese, made without any artificial flavors or preservatives. There are many good lowerfat and low-salt cheeses on the market, too. Veg out: Fresh fruits and vegetables add nutrition and boost flavor. Add avocado, apple slices, cucumber, etc. Pack in the protein: The average person should get about 30 grams of protein at each meal, according to the Journal of Nutrition. A cheese like Arla has 4 to 6 grams of protein per slice. Banish butter: Traditionally grilled cheese is made with butter or margarine, but you can still grill a mean sandwich when you select a lighter option. Try using olive oil, which feature nutrientpacked fats and omegas.

More Tips:

• Skip the spread. Add oils directly to the skillet rather than spreading on bread. • Grill both sides of the bread to get a decadent crunch. Place plain bread slices on the skillet in oil to toast, then flip and add the cheese. • Cook low and slow: Have patience! You’ll get better results when you use medium-low heat rather than high. If you use too high of a temperature, you’ll burn the bread without thoroughly melting the cheese. ❚ Source: BPT

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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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Buy it Fresh at Local Farmers Markets H ere’s a glance at the ongoing farmers markets in our region. All feature fresh produce and other treats.

Saturdays

Beloit Farmers Market Saturdays, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., downtown. Now in its fourth decade, this is one of the oldest markets in our region, with more than 85 vendors. VisitBeloit.com North End City Market Saturdays, 9 a.m.- 1 p.m., southeast corner of Main and Auburn streets, Rockford, through Oct. 29. Live music, fresh-cooked food and socializing. Rockfordcitymarket.com/northend

Pecatonica Farmers Market Saturdays, 10 a.m.-noon, through Oct. 29, Main and Fourth Streets. Gorockford.com

Wednesdays/Thursdays

Edgebrook Farmers Market Wednesdays and Thursdays. Wed. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Oct. 26 and Thurs. 3-6:30 p.m., with a different set of vendors than Wednesday, through Sept. 15. The Wednesday market is now in its 25th year. Live music on Thursdays. Edgebrookshops.com Rockton River Market Wednesdays, 4-8 p.m. through Aug. 31, along the Rock River on East Harwick Street, in Old Settlers Park. RocktonRiverMarket.com

Freeport Farmers Market Saturdays, 7-11 a.m., CVS parking lot, 721 W. South St., Freeport, through Oct. 1. Stephenson-county-il.org

Highland Farmers Market Wednesdays, 3-6 p.m. through Oct. 5, Parkling Lot C of Highland Community College, 2998 W. Pearl City Road, Freeport

Belvidere Farmers Market & Crafts Saturdays, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. through Oct. 22, parking lot of Dodge Lanes, 1940 State St., belviderefarmersmarket.com

Pecatonica Farmers Market Wednesdays, 4-7 p.m. through Oct. 26, at Main and Fourth Streets. Gorockford.com

GPS Faith Community Farmers Market Thursdays, 3-7 p.m. through Sept. 22, 10714 N. Second St., Machesney Park, Ill. (north and west of Route 173.) Live music 5-7 p.m., gorockford.com

Fridays

Rockford City Market Fridays, 3:30-8:30 p.m. on Water Street near State Street through Sept. 30. (Closing time changes to 7:30 p.m. after Labor Day.) Live music, fresh-cooked food and locally brewed beer. Rockfordcitymarket.com. Winnebago Farmers Market Fridays, 3:30-7 p.m., through Oct. 28, Main and Benton streets. GoRockford.com ❚

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Festa

Continued from Cover

More than $700,000 in scholarship money has been raised for the Greater Rockford Italian American Association (GRIAA), the organization that oversees the Festa Italiana Committee. Two stages will offer a variety of music from new and returning artists, says Heffner. Music styles will include classic and contemporary Italian, American pop and dance music, jazz, rock and more. This year, each stage will have a list of performers and times they will be performing, to help people plan and enjoy other parts of the festival while waiting to see a favorite act. Thanks to more than 100 coordinators, hundreds of volunteers and more than 25,000 people in attendance last year, Festa has grown to be the secondlargest festival in Rockford. This year the festival will debut its

own website, festaitalianarockford.com, designed by Greg Johnson, digital media developer for Cain & Co in Rockford. The site is user-friendly, accessible by smart phone, eye-catching, and has a well-organized design with lots of photos and information. Festa will host its second Little Miss Italian American Pageant on Saturday, Aug. 6, on the festival grounds at the Gambino Stage, next to the Culture Tent. The pageant will host two groups: one for ages 5-8 and one for ages 9-12. Contestants will be judged on speech, stage presence, and prepared questions. Application forms can be downloaded from the Festa website and must be filled out and postmarked by July 27. Space is limited. The entertainment schedule begins at 5:45 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5, on the Gambino Realty Stage, with the return of Joe Scalissi of Madison, Wis., who has earned the reputation of being one of the best Dean Martin tribute artists worldwide. His performance will be followed by opening

remarks that kick off the festival, and at 7:30 p.m. Diamanti will perform, followed by The Stevee Nix. Diamanti performs at Italian festivals around the country and is comprised of five talents from the Chicago area, offering a wide repertoire of classical and contemporary Italian and American pop and dance music. The Stevie Nix will take the stage at 9:30 p.m., bringing energy, creativity and emotion to a potent blend of genres that is unique, exciting

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R  O R and stirs up a party atmosphere. Its music spans modern/alternative rock to its own style of retro tunes. On the same stage, Saturday’s entertainment includes Serendipity at 1:45 p.m.; the Nick Pontarelli Band at 4:15 p.m.; Denny Diamond and the Jewels at 7 p.m.; and Back Country Roads at 9:30 p.m. Sunday’s performers include the Mike Williamson Trio at 1:15 p.m., Trippin’ Tarzan at 3 p.m., Tony Spavone at 5:10 p.m. and closing ceremonies at 7:25 p.m., followed by Miles Nielsen and the Rusted Hearts at 7:40 p.m. The Gambino Building and Remodeling Stage will open with Eddie B. Jazz at 5 p.m., performing a mix of classic and contemporary jazz mixed with rhythm and blues, soul, pop and funk. The group performs every Tuesday and Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m. at Lino’s in Rockford. Next up is the Amici Italiana Adult Troupe at 7:05 p.m. The dance troupe will also perform at 5:45 p.m. Saturday

and at 4:15 p.m. Sunday. The Amici Italiana Youth Troupe will perform at 3 p.m. Saturday and at 2:15 p.m. Sunday. Dakota Horvath, a 27-year-old singer/songwriter is often compared to Michael Buble, Bobby Darin and Frank Sinatra. He has shared the stage with many talents including the late Natalie Cole, Tony Bennett, Jimmy Buffet, Seal, Rick Springfield, Don Rickles, Paul Anka, Lou Rawls, Tony Orlando and more. He performs at 8:30 p.m. Saturday. A new talent will take the stage at 6:25 p.m. Sunday. Angel Spiccia was seen by Heffner at the Chicago Italian Festival and he liked her performance so much, he invited her to come to Rockford. “She has a beautiful jazz vocal performance that was so enjoyable to listen to and she will be new to us this year. I’m always looking for new talent and ways to make our festival bigger and better to attract more people each year,” he says. The traditional Roman Catholic Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on

Sunday. Festival hours are from 5 to 11 p.m. Friday, from noon to 11 p.m. Saturday and from noon to 9 a.m. Sunday. Admission is $5. Admission is free for children under the age of 12 when accompanied by an adult. Free admission is also granted to all military active duty and veterans. There are unlimited carnival rides from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and all day Sunday with the purchase of a $15 wrist band at the south gate. The 2016 executive committee for Festa Italiana is chaired by Alex LaSala and co-chaired by Brian Meade, Jay Villani, Joy Parlapiano and Mike Maffioli, all past chairpersons of the event. The 2016 Advisory Board for the event includes John Falzone, Corky Corirossi, Karen Cantele, Mitch LaMonica, Louis Maffioli, Paul Maffioli, Whitey Marinelli, Frank Nelson, Frank Valentine, Rick Heffner and Mike Vernia. Learn more at festaitalianarockford. com. ❚

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High Nutrition Served at Peak’s Thrive Café

By Peggy Werner

eak Sports Club, 4401 Peak Drive, Loves Park, is offering yet another way to achieve good health. Thrive Café is open to the general public as well as to Peak members. The menu consists primarily of freshly made salads, wraps, Panini sandwiches, coldpressed juices and smoothies. All homemade items are prepared with fresh ingredients purchased locally. Jason Rager, owner and operator of Thrive Café, is a personal trainer who emphasizes the nutritional side of fitness. He says good carbohydrates fuel a workout and protein and other nutrient-rich foods like fruits and vegetables help the body recover and repair after strenuous activity. Rager describes the freshly made cold-pressed juices and smoothies as a “meal-in-a-cup” because of the quan-

tity of fruits and vegetables used in each 16-oz serving. Making the drinks on the spot allows for optimum nutrition you can’t find in processed foods. Juicing extracts the liquid from fruits and vegetables, leaving the fiber behind. Without the fiber, it’s easier to consume lots of fruits and vegetables and quickly get essential vitamins, minerals and enzymes into the blood stream for an energy burst. “Juicing changes the body at a cellular level. With new cells being generated all of the time and getting the nutrients they need, the body just functions better,” he says. Smoothies are made with the whole

fruit, giving the consumer the benefit of fiber, which is more filling. It allows for a slower release of sugar into the bloodstream and is good roughage. Because smoothies are blended, other ingredients may be added, such as nuts and seeds, which generally can’t go through a juicer. Either way, people get daily servings of fruits and vegetables they otherwise might not consume, which helps to protect the human body from disease. Thrive Café is open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday; from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and closed Sunday. ❚

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f you’d like to check out some Rockford attractions from your easy chair, in real time, you’ll get your chance this week. Virtual tours of various locations will be available through Georama, a virtual travel experience. Georama is working closely with the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (RACVB) and the Illinois Ofﬁce of Tourism. Find the link at gorockford.com/georama. “We’re very excited to team up with the Illinois Ofﬁce of Tourism and Georama to share ‘Real. Original.’ experiences in the Rockford region with folks near and far,” says Josh Albrecht, director of marketing and public affairs at RACVB. “This is a great opportunity for viewers to see behind-the-scenes virtual tours of sites, attractions and eateries that Rockford is known for. Sign-up is simple and gives folks full access to 30-minute live videos airing each day. This also includes

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interactive Q&A with the tour guides and hearing their favorite tips and ideas about the region.” The live tours began July 15 and run through July 22. Tours that have already taken place can be pulled up and watched as well. On Wednesday, July 20, at noon, downtown Rockford will be featured; On Thursday, July 21, at noon, Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens will be explored; On Friday, July 22, at noon, the Coronado Performing Arts Center and Cheap Trick will be featured. Attractions that can be pulled up from the website include Rockford City Market, Riverfront Museum Park and Anderson Japanese Gardens. Live tours featuring other attractions across Illinois can be found at EnjoyIllinois.com/live. Georama calls itself “the world’s ﬁrst real-time virtual tour platform.” Its vision is to help anyone ‘travel’ anywhere

July 20 To advertise call 815-316-2300

(Jesse Fox photo)

‘Visit’ Local Attractions Virtually This Week I

Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens

in the world instantly, via real-time mobile guided tours using a 360-degree HD quality camera. Viewers can interact in real-time to ask questions and make suggestions. The mission of RACVB is to drive quality of life and economic growth for citizens through tourism marketing and destination development. Learn more at GoRockford.com. ❚

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

"Sugar" Thru July 31, Fri. & Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. "Sugar," a musical based on the film "Some Like It Hot," chronicles the zany lives of two Rockford, IL 61101 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com musicians of the prohibition era. Pec Playhouse Theatre, 314 Main St., Pecatonica, Ill., pecplayhouse.org. 9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

“The Phantom of the Opera” 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. 12th Annual Cars on Main July 23, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Come for the cars, stay for the food, shops, entertainment and smalltown charm. There will be a variety of classic to modern cars on display. Downtown Pecatonica, 400 Block of Main St., Pecatonica, Ill., (815) 978-9530, carsonmain.org. Concerts on the Creek: Jodi Beach July 23, 7-9 p.m. Enjoy music from Jodi Beach, a jazz vocalist and pianist. Pizza from Mamma Mia’s, canned soda, bottled water and popcorn available. Spring Creek United Church of Christ, Rockford, (815) 877-2576, springcreekucc.org. Perry Pitney Memorial Concert July 23, 5:30 p.m.-8:15 pm. This annual concert, featuring The Bankesters, is in memory of Perry Pitney, former executive director of Rockford Rescue Mission. Enjoy country, folk, bluegrass and gospel music. The evening includes a light meal, dessert auction and concert. Rockford Rescue Mission, 715 W. State St., Rockford, (815) 316-4176, rockfordrescuemission.org. Kryptonite's Absurd Fun'd Fare July 23, 2 p.m. Join Kryptonite for their last block party. All ages can enjoy live music, food and grade school games with an adult twist. Kryptonite Bar, 308 W. State St., Rockford, (815) 505-3381, kryptonitebar.com. AJG: American Aquarium July 26, 5:45 p.m., doors 5 p.m. Tuesday Evening in the Gardens concert series. American Aquarium is a fresh voice that borrows from

Enjoy music from jazz vocalist and pianist Jodi Beach on July 23 at Spring Creek United Church of Christ.

many forms of the American songbook. Refreshments available. Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 229-9390, andersongardens.org. Music al Fresco: Latin Nights July 26, 7 p.m. Enjoy the musicians of the Rockford Symphony Orchestra at an outdoor venue. This special summer appearance features symphonic music with a Latin-American influence, inspired by dance rhythms and traditions of Mexico, the Caribbean and South America. Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 1354 N. 2nd St., Rockford, rockfordsymphony.com. The Lone Canary Enjoy tunes on the terrace along the banks of the Rock River. Food and beverages available. Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens, 1354 N. 2nd St., Rockford, rockfordparkdistrict.org/ncg. Rigidity and Flexibility in Traditional Japanese Arts July 28, 7 p.m. Explore Japanese arts that demonstrate these characteristics and learn about the art forms that have inﬂuenced Japan’s contemporary industry. Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford, (815) 316-3307, andersongardens.org. 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. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 9636797, discoverycentermuseum.org. ❚

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

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July 20

WDL

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 Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Authentic Fresh Mexican. 107 W. Main St., Poplar Grove, Ill., (815) 765-1144. LD M 11am-8pm; Tue-Th 11am-9pm; Fri 11am-10pm; Sun noon-8pm. $. Bravo Pizza E Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Rd., South Beloit, (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $. Cannova’s Italian Cuisine E Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., Freeport, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. $-$$. Ciao Bella Ristorante E Upscale-Casual/Italian-American. Extensive wine list; daily specials. 6500 E. Riverside, Loves Park, (815) 654-9900. LD M-F 11am-9pm, Sat 5-9pm, Sun 4-7:30pm. Costa’s Ristorante E Upscale-Casual. 133 Blackhawk Dr., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. Open daily 4pm. $-$$. Dos Reales E Casual/Mexican. Authentic Mexican fare, lunch menu. 5855 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 227-4979. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 10:30pm. $-$$. Giordano’s Famous Stuffed Pizza E Casual/Italian. Pick-up/ delivery. 333 Executive Pkwy., Rockford, Ill. (815) 398-5700. LD Sun-Th 9am-11pm; F-Sat to midnight. $. JMK Nippon Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar E UpscaleCasual. Food cooked tableside. 2551 N. Perryville, Rockford, (815) 877-0505. L T-F 11:30am-2pm, Sat 2:30pm; D M-Th 5-9:30pm, F-Sat 10:30pm, Sun 4:30-9:30pm. $$. 28

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Main Street Bistro E Casual/Fine dining. Th&Sat. 109 S. Galena, Freeport, (815) 232-2322. M-Sat 2pm-midnight. $$. Maciano’s Pizza & Pastaria E Casual. Beer/wine. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, (815) 963-7869. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $$. Maxson Riverside Restaurant E Casual/American. 1469 IL Route 2, Oregon, Ill., (800) 468-4222. LD M-Sat 11am-8pm, Br Sun 10am-3pm. $$. Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint E Fine Dining. Ironworks Hotel, 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, Wis. (608) 313-0700. D Sun.Th 4:30-9pm, Fri-Sat. 10pm. $$. Napoli Pizzeria III & Top Dollar Slots E Takeout/delivery. 6560 N. Alpine, Loves Park, (815) 877-9888. LD daily 11am. Prairie Street Brewhouse E Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$. Tavern on Clark E Casual/American. 755 Clark Ave., Rockford, (815) 708-7088. LD daily 10am. $-$$. Thrive Café E Healthful, fresh salads, wraps, sandwiches, smoothies and cold-pressed juices. Inside Peak Fitness, 4401 Peak Drive, Loves Park. 6 am-8 pm Mon-Fri.; 8 am-2 pm Sat.; Closed Sundays. This Is It Eatery E Casual/American. 16 N. Chicago Ave., Freeport, (815) 616-5449. LD T-Th 11am-8pm, F-Sat 10pm. $. ❚

July 20 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Merrill & Houston's Steak Joint

ocated at 500 Pleasant St., inside the Ironworks Hotel, the restaurant features mouth-watering steaks, along with a full-service menu of ﬁsh, chicken and and sea food selections. Named after the men who's 1858 foundry became Beloit Corp., Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint celebrates Beloit's rich industrial history. Many of its components are constructed with repurposed materials salvaged from historic buildings. Leather seats, hardwood ﬂoors and many historic photographs lining the walls give the space a rustic feel. Merrill & Houston's is available for private and corporate events. The main dining room seats 120 and the banquet room can accommodate 200 guests. Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint is open daily at 4 p.m. ❚

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July 20

Y T

Are You Paying Too Much for Tech? By Peggy Werner

t’s easy to complain about prices, especially when paying for what you don’t need or want. EZ Satellite & Wireless, a family-owned business at 6239 N. 2nd St., Suite B, in Loves Park, is aiming to change that for local customers. The business is an authorized dish network retailer and is licensed to offer services from any other provider using dish, cable, internet and home security, such as Comcast, Frontier, HughesNet, DishNet, DirectTV, Digitenna, and Vivint. “People are paying too much for phone, internet, and television services by using just one company. I can help people save money by finding out what they need and paying only for those services, having the best from each company,” says Charles Zambrano, owner of EZ Satellite & Wireless. Zambrano opened his business in 2011, in Roscoe, and in May moved to

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a larger, more visible location in Loves Park, with a new bill-paying center as an added service. EZ Satellite & Wireless is a full service retailer for satellite TV and internet, and can also help people acquire cable services. About 80 percent of Zambrano’s business is working with residential customers, and the remainder is commercial. He services homes and businesses in southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois. After working for many years as a satellite dish installer for one of the local providers, he decided to go out on his own to be more in control of his life and to help others do the same. “It get’s very confusing. People end up unhappy because they’re driven by price and don’t really know what they’re getting,” he says. EZ Satellite and Wireless offers custom-tailored packages for each customer. The person who lives in a rural area

July 20 To advertise call 815-316-2300

and is limited by what services are available has a whole different situation than the couple with five kids, with everyone on the internet and their own cell phones, and a television in every room. “I find out what people need before they sign up for anything. Instead of shopping around, I can show you all the options. We’re in the business of providing solutions,” he says. For more information, contact EZ Satellite & Wireless at (815) 957-4335 or stop by the office. ❚

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July 20

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July 20 To advertise call 815-316-2300

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July 20 To advertise call 815-316-2300

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Issue 1