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Right in Our Region
Mo Pitney Headlines 28th Byronfest By Sarah Soenke, deputy editor
F
or 28 years, Byronfest has offered familyfriendly fun, and this year is no exception. Country music sensation Mo Pitney, a native of Cherry Valley, will headline the three-day fest, which runs July 10-12. Pitney performs Saturday at 9:30 p.m.
“ByronFest gives people a chance to come here and see what this little town offers,” says Deanna Mershon, executive director of the Byron Chamber of Commerce, which organizes the event. “A lot of people don’t realize what our town has to offer until they visit ByronFest.” Continued on p. 20
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Perfect Patios • Quicker ER Access • Social Security Myths Tasty July 4th Fare • Lucha Cantina • Make Your Home Safer for Kids
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In This Issue
Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 20 Byronfest Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 The Perfect Patio Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Star Struck Your Kitchen .....................................................15 A July 4th Feast Your Outing .......................................................17 Shop the Blocks Your Health ............................................. .......... 25 Quicker Service to the ER Your Outing ............................................. .......... 26 O.V. Shaffer Exhibit Your Fun ................................................... ......... 27
Restaurant of the Week ................................... 29 Lucha Cantina Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 29
Tips ........................................................... ......... 31 Keep Your Little Ones Safe Your Money .............................................. ......... 33 Understanding Social Security Myths
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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Something Afoot in 1963
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he year was 1963. JFK was president and real-life Mad Men were holding martini lunches in Manhatten. But out here in Rockford, Ill., something else was afoot. ThenMayor Ben Schleicher approached a young ball of energy named Joe Marino to ask if he would consider organizing a special event: July 4th festivities in Rockford. A U.S. Navy veteran of World War II, and a first-generation American, Marino met the challenge with an enthusiasm that hasn’t waned in more than five decades. He organized a committee, solicited private donations and presented the city with its first downtown fireworks show in that summer of ‘63. In retrospect, it was a summer of innocence, on the eve of three terrible assasinations, a horrific war and a spate of issues that bitterly divided Americans for the next decade and beyond. But summer after summer, regardless of differing viewpoints on Vietnam, feminism, Civil Rights, and much more, we celebrated the birth of our country, side by side, right here in Rockford. And we’re still doing it, with a fireworks show that delights young and old, year after year. Tradition can be a very good thing. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the political radicalism, and sheer courage, that led us to declare our independence from the English king, in 1776. Did you know that NO tax dollars are used for this celebration? At a time when many communities have given up fireworks because of budget cuts, Rockford still proudly puts on one of the best shows in the state, thanks to the hard work of Joe & friends. A few years ago, Joe Marino told Northwest Quarterly staff writer Paul Anthony Arco: “This is the country that gave my immigrant parents an opportunity to come here and build better lives for themselves. As long as I’m alive, I will celebrate that opportunity.” What a wonderful attitude of gratitude. Of course, Joe would be the first to tell you he hasn’t done it alone. Be proud, Rockford. And Happy Birthday, America! ❚ Janine Pumilia Executive Editor
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The Perfect Patio: Functional & Low Maintenance By Peggy Werner
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ong lasting, functional, and low maintenance are key concepts today’s homeowners are interested in when they build or improve home patios. As general manager of Benson Stone Company, 1100 11th St., Kevin Obee has seen how the evolution of materials and designs is impacting the way people enjoy life outdoors. “Sometimes the best room in the house isn’t in the house,” he says. One of the most popular trends is building a retaining wall around a patio, which not only adds privacy and beauty, but also extra seating for guests. Walls and innovative flooring materials are ushering the way toward the biggest changes in patio planning, he says. Screens, gates, brick walls, fireplace walls, garden screens, colorful sliding glass door panels, plants, shrubs, firepits, gazebo-style tents and awnings can add to a feeling of privacy and coziness. “This is a big trend all over the country,” he says. With so many new materials and an explosion of ideas being incorporated into making outdoor spaces more comfortable, the trends in outdoor living continue to evolve, he says. “I’m seeing people design bigger spaces, with multiple levels,” he says. In one area, there may be a patio with seating
around a fire pit and a path leading to a quiet garden area. People are moving away from high-maintenance wood decks to long-lasting materials that require little maintenance and offer a variety of looks. Benson’s showroom, inside a four-story restored furniture factory, is filled with ideas to transform your home inside and out. Showroom hours are 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Mon. and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.Sat. While you’re there, stop by the HearthRock Café to enjoy gourmet coffee, waffles, quiche, biscuits and gravy for breakfast or an array of salads, soups, sandwiches and fresh baked goods for lunch. The Café is open 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Mon.-Fri. and from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. on Sat. ❚
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Star Struck B
eing people, we sometimes argue about which celebrities are “good role models” for our children. Who and what do we admire? Financial success? Athletic prowess? Physical beauty? Great talent or intelligence? Charisma? “You can reach for the stars like these people did,” we tell our kids. Yet, while all of these qualities are pleasant and just may be used to the glory of God, they have little to do with the behaviors modeled by Jesus Christ. Along with unfailing, loving obedience to God, Jesus set an example for passionate service to others. He demonstrated courage, compassion, humility, kindness, patience and an unstoppable, unconditional, crazybig love for people. John writes in John 13:1-5 (NIV): It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him... ... John 13:12-17: When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” God’s ways are far above our ways. But with His help, we can reach for the stars – and the Maker of the stars – anyway. ❚ – Janine Pumilia 12
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Dazzle Guests with a July 4th Feast C
elebrate warm weather, abundant outdoor activities and all the fun of July 4th with a flavorful and festive gathering.
Patriotic and Perfectly Sweet
This July 4th, serve watermelon. This yummy fruit boasts sweetness and nutrition at a great value. Loaded with vitamins A, B6 and C, as well as antioxidants and heart-healthy amino acids, it’s a welcome addition to your summer spread. For more recipes, visit watermelon.org. Red, White and Blue Watermelon ‘Cake’ Servings: 6–8 1 seedless watermelon 1 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt 1 cup sliced almonds 1 cup blueberries 1 cup sliced strawberries Place watermelon on side on cutting board. Cut 3 to 5 inches off each end to create large center slice 3 to 5 inches in depth. Trim off outer rind. Cut watermelon slice into 6 to 8 pieshaped wedges. Blot edges with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Dip the back (curved) side of each slice in yogurt and then almonds, re-assembling pieces on serving platter as each piece is completed. When finished, it will look like piecrust of almonds around watermelon slices. Frost top of reassembled watermelon with remaining yogurt and decorate top with berries. Serve cold.
4 brioche-style buns, toasted 1 small red onion, very thinly sliced into rings 1 cup arugula Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Season burgers with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Drizzle with olive oil, then place on grill. Cook 3 minutes, then flip. Add slices of blue cheese and cook another 1 to 2 minutes. Remove burgers from grill and place patties on toasted buns. Top each burger with slice of red onion and arugula. Serve. Dipped Ice Cream Cones 1 bag (12 oz.) White Candy Melts 12 Sugar ice cream cones Jimmies 6-Mix Sprinkle Assortment Rainbow Jimmies
Melt candy in microwave safe bowl. Dip cones about 1 inch deep around opening of cone. Cut small hole in tip of bag and drizzle melted candy 1 inch deep around opening of cone. Tap cone lightly to smooth, and sprinkle with jimmies. Chill 10 to 15 minutes. Add ice cream scoops at party and serve in cone rack. ❚ Source: Family Features
Fine Oils, Vinegars, & Now Spices!
Fresh Off the Grill
“For a red-white-and-blue burger that tastes as good as it looks, I use ground bison on a brioche bun, topped with Castello Burger Blue Cheese,” says celebrity chef Michael Symon. For more of his recipes, visit castellocheeseusa.com. Bison Burger with Blue Cheese Servings: 4 Kosher Salt Freshly ground black pepper 2 Tb. olive oil 1 pound ground bison, loosely packed into burger patties 4 slices blue cheese
6332 E. Riverside Blvd. Loves Park, IL 328 East State Street Rockford, IL Hours: Mon–Fri 11-7p Sat 11-6p Sun 12-4p
815-904-6120 theoliveoilexperience.com
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MEET ME AT THE MARKET! Fridays | May 22 – Oct 2 | Downtown Rockford 3:30 – 8:30 p.m. (3:30 – 7:30 p.m. after Labor Day)
rockfordcitymarket.com
Don’t miss the North End City Market! Saturdays | May 16 – Oct 31 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Auburn & Main St.
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Shop the Blocks on July 3 T
he River District Association (RDA) announces the debut of “Shop the Blocks – Shop, Dine, Play, Local,” a joint venture of the RDA, The ELEMENT Rockford, and City of Rockford’s Community and Economic Development department. The aim is to bring people downtown to relax, shop, dine and play together, on three dates this summer: July 3, Aug. 8 and Sept. 5. Shop the Blocks kicks off on Friday, July 3 from 3-9 p.m., on East State Street, from the river to 3rd and 1st streets. Retailers and restaurants will bring their businesses outside to offer sidewalk sales and dining areas. Also, a few select parking spaces on 1st Street will be turned into temporary interactive open-air “parklets,” offering visitors a space to kick back and relax, connect with friends, and even do something unique like play a game of bags, chess or checkers. Salvaged by Sonya will offer an antique-style seating area, and Lucette Salon will offer hair styling.
“We’ve worked hard with downtown businesses to customize three special events that will encourage people to walk the blocks while enjoying outdoor retailers, restaurants and interactive parklets,” says RDA Director Leah Tuneberg. The parklets idea is one used in cities like San Francisco, Seattle and Nashville. “This is an excellent opportunity to support the businesses in the area while testing some of the tactical efforts of the Downtown Implementation Plan,” says Todd Cagnoni, director of the city’s Community and Economic Development Department. River District Association (RDA) is a not-for-profit, membership-based organization and is supported through dues, donations, sponsorships, grants, and fundraisers. The ELEMENT Rockford, a nonprofit, works to build community among those with a creative spirit, in the heart of Rockford. The following partners have been working together to ensure a successful
summer event series: The City of Rockford-Public Works; Vintage @501: Lucette Salon; Salvaged by Sonya; Wired Café; Art Deli; Bee’s Knees; Roni-State of the Art; Bath and Body Fusion; Yolo’s Bakery; Runners Image; Sienna’s Kitchen; and 317 Studio & Gallery. ❚ Get SLW Outings articles every week. Visit NWQSmartLiving.com and start your e-Edition today.
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R O R
Byronfest Continued from Cover
The city of 3,800 residents welcomes 30,000 visitors during the event. Most of the action takes place in Byron’s downtown area, where visitors find two entertainment stages, two beer gardens, Taste of ByronFest, a carnival midway, and much more. Other Byronfest attractions are located throughout the city. “For entertainment, we really made every attempt to offer a wide variety of music for all ages,” says Mershon. “This year we’re excited to have Mo Pitney.” The country singer-songwriter has been performing across the nation since releasing his 2014 debut single “Country,” which was featured on Spotify’s country playlist. The 22-year-old received a standing ovation at the Grand Ole Opry and recently was featured in an issue of the Country Music Association’s “Close-Up Magazine.” Other performers on the entertainment lineup include Miles Nielsen & The Rusted Hearts, Jamie Campbell & The Redneck
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Romeos, Love & Thunder, Sunset Strip, The Crave, The Stevee Nix with Abby Alton, Kashmir and Missy Vail, who will perform just before Pitney on Saturday night. Byronfest regulars will notice a few changes this year. For one thing, 18 food vendors will group themselves along Second Street for Taste of ByronFest following last year’s change, rather than spreading themselves throughout the festival grounds. Their diverse, tasty festival fare will be available 5 p.m.-midnight Friday; 11 a.m.-midnight Saturday; and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Food vendors won’t accept cash but will operate through a $1-ticket system, as will carnival ride operators. Physical fitness has grown in importance at this fest, and the second annual fitness challenge, which debuted last year, will expand. While the course will test contestants’ strength, speed, power and agility, it will be lest daunting than it was last year. “We had horrible weather, and it was really difficult, so that may have deterred some people,” says Mershon. “This year,
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we scaled it back, so it’s still hard, but it’s doable. We’ve added a mental challenge as well.” Festival goers can also get active at the 5k Run, at 8 a.m. Saturday at the Jarrett Prairie Center, 7993 N. River Road, and at the men’s and women’s USSSA state qualifier softball tourneys staged at Byron Outdoor Sports Complex. Admission tradition is changing this
R O R year, too. Rather than the usual button, this year’s attendees will purchase wristbands to enter the main festival grounds. “It was easy for people to lose the buttons – they would often fall off or get misplaced,” explains Mershon. “It’s sad to get rid of the tradition of the button, but the cost savings make up for it.” Wristbands may be purchased in advance for $5, either online or from Byron merchants; they cost $8 at the gate. Wristbands are not required for Sunday, the Family Day of the festival. Other key events include a quilt show all three days at the Byron Museum of History and the Lucius Read House,
Cover & inside photos by Randy Stukenberg
110 N. Union St.; the Hib Reber Memorial Car Show on Saturday at the United Church of Byron, 701 W. Second St.; and a bags tournament at 11 a.m. Saturday on the festival grounds. The entire weekend will be kicked off with GospelFest, Thursday evening at 6:30 p.m., at the Neighbors Rehabilitation Center, 811 W. Second St. A 2 p.m. parade is the highlight on Sunday, the final day of Byronfest. The free-to-enter lineup will showcase more than 40 local businesses and organizations. The parade route runs from Maple and Second streets to Third and Market streets. The free publicity parade participants receive is just one of the ways the festival supports participating organizations. “The festival is the Chamber’s biggest fundraiser, but the amount of money we give back to community organizations makes it their biggest fundraiser, too,” says Mershon. “We wouldn’t be able to put on this festival without our awesome sponsors and volunteers.”
The festival returns about $30,000 to local charities every year. Byron Bank is the presenting sponsor, and more than 100 other businesses and organizations support the event as well, making the fest a truly collaborative effort. “It definitely is a community fundraising opportunity, and it grows tourism in the area,” says Mershon. 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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Get In Quicker Convenient Care and Emergency Department Scheduling
RHSInQuicker.org
GO TO:
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.
ROCKFORD HEALTH PHYSICIANS CONVENIENT CARE Rockford – 3401 N. Perryville Road M-F: 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. • Sat-Sun: Noon to 8 p.m. Rockford – 2300 N. Rockton Avenue M-F: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. • Sat: 8 a.m. to noon
Belvidere – 1747 Henry Luckow Lane M-F: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. • Sat: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Roscoe – 5000 Prairie Rose Drive M-Th: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. • Sun: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
EMERGENCY CARE - 24/7 Rockford Memorial Hospital Emergency Department • 2400 N. Rockton Avenue
If you have a life-threatening emergency, call 911.
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New Online Check-in Tool Speeds Patient Care R
ockford Health System is reinventing the way patients access the Convenient Care clinics and Rockford Memorial Hospital Emergency Department. This summer, patients began getting treatment quicker by using a new online check-in tool. They go to RHSInQuicker.org and fill out a form, wait in the comfort of their own homes and arrive at the facility at the projected treatment time. So far, an average of seven patients per day are using the system. The InQuicker tool is used at Rockford Memorial Hospital Emergency Department, 2400 N. Rockton Ave., Rockford, as well as the following Rockford Health System locations: • Rockford Health Physicians – Perryville, 3401 N. Perryville Road, Mon.-Fri. 7:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. noon-8 p.m. • Rockford Health Physicians – North Rockton Avenue, 2300 N. Rockton Ave., Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat. 8 a.m.-noon • Rockford Health Physicians – Belvidere, 1747 Henry Luckow Lane, Mon.-Fri. 5 p.m.-8 p.m.; Sat: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. • Rockford Health Physicians – Roscoe, 5000 Prairie Rose Dr., Mon.-Thu. 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. “Our patients deserve respect for their time,” explains Michelle Hintz, director of Emergency Services at Rockford Health System. “It’s a simple and convenient way for people with busy lives and busy families to conveniently access care for minor medical needs. If you’re in doubt about the severity of your condition, you should always seek immediate care.”
The system is designed to filter certain symptom keywords that may indicate a life-threatening or debilitating medical condition, in addition to a review of a user’s symptoms by a health care professional at Rockford Health System. Those with symptoms that indicate such medical conditions are prompted to dial 911 or go immediately to the nearest emergency room. InQuicker is not an appointment or reservation service, because the nature of ER triage does not allow for the scheduling of medical treatment. It estimates treatment times based on facility conditions. In the event of a projected treatment time delay, users are sent realtime notifications via phone call and email so they can continue waiting at home. Patient feedback for the new system has been positive. “I had a great experience! When you have a sick twoyear-old, the last thing you want to do is sit in a waiting room for an hour. As soon as we got to the clinic and checked in, my son was quickly called back and taken care of. We were in the clinic less than 40 minutes!” ❚
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Y O
he work of artist Owen Verne Shaffer will be celebrated in a special show running July 3-31 at the Beloit Fine Arts Incubator, 520 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis. The opening on Friday, July 3, is from 5-8 p.m. and is open to the public. Shaffer is Wisconsin’s most prolific public artist. His sculptures are seen in parks, museums, schools, libraries, churches, homes and more, not only in Wisconsin, but throughout the U.S. and in other countries. Although he now lives in his hometown of Princeton, Ill., Shaffer spent 50 years living in southern Wisconsin. He graduated from Beloit College in 1950 and then earned a master’s degree in art at Michigan State University. He taught at Olivet College and worked at a lithographic firm before returning to Beloit College, in 1955, where he worked as an instructor and director of the Wright Museum of Art. A statewide celebration of Shaffer’s artwork will begin with an opening reception at the Beloit Fine Arts Incubator, with work from his later years. All of the work in this exhibit is from privately owned collections. Other venues for Shaffer’s work during July include Beloit College Wright Museum of Art, the Janesville Art League Woman’s Gallery and the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.
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Now age 87, Shaffer continues to work in his Princeton studio, a converted barn. For most of his career, he sculpted in Clinton, Wis. Shaffer’s artwork is made of steel and brass, welded or cast, This Shaffer sculpture is installed at Nicholas and wood and cast con- Conservatory & Gardens in Rockford. crete. He has won multiple awards, including awards from the Wisconsin governor’s office and lifetime achievement awards. A road trip to 14 cities in Wisconsin to view Shaffer’s public art has been developed. Each piece is marked with a QR code allowing visitors to connect to a YouTube via a smart phone to see and hear the artist talking about the piece they are viewing. A large printed map with corresponding QR codes will be available throughout the state. The printed maps will include QR codes that connect to Google Maps and provide turn-by-turn directions to each of the public art pieces. For additional information regarding this month-long celebration, go to Beloitfineartsincubator.com. ❚
(Samantha Ryan photo)
O.V. Shaffer Celebration Begins July 3 in Beloit T
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51st Annual Dixon Petunia Festival July 1-5, events daily. Carnival, 5k run, live bands, car show, bingo, art show, parade, fireworks. Dixon Riverfront, Dixon, Ill., petuniafestival.org.
MELD July 4th Classic July 4, Runs 7 and 7:05 a.m.; walk 8 a.m. 8k Run, 2 Mile Run and 1 Mile Fun Walk. Riverview Ice House, 324 N. Madison St., Rockford, (815) 963-6353, rockfordmeld. org.
Istavan & His Imaginary Band July 1, 1:30 p.m. Interactive rock’n’roll, country, pop, punk, sing-alongs. Pre-show activities at 12:45. Free. Sinnissippi Band Shell, Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. 2nd St., Rockford. Rockfordparkdistrict.org.
Pops on the Rock July 4, 7:45 p.m. Patriotic music on the Rock River. Riverside Park, 1160 S. Riverside Dr., Beloit, visitbeloit.com.
Reed & Waddy July 1, 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. Family Movie Night July 2, 7 p.m. Free showing of The Lego Movie. Riverside Park, Beloit, visitbeloit. com. Mississippi Heat July 2, 7 p.m. Sounds of Summer Concert Series. Chicago blues music. Food and beverages for sale. Free. Sinnissippi Band Shell, Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. 2nd St., Rockford. Rockfordparkdistrict.org. Kaboom! July 3-4, Fri. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Sat. 1-5 p.m. Discover the secret ingredients that put the oohs and ahhs in fireworks, test your rocket design and send a mini-missile soaring, create patriotic art. $8/members free. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.com. ComEd Independence Day Spectacular July 3, 8 p.m. Pops Concert of patriotic favorites, a tribute to our veterans, lively summertime tunes. Fireworks follow. $30/$29 age 25-under, 65-over. Attend BBQ beforehand, 6 p.m.: $15/$10 age 12-under. Starlight Theater, Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Rd., Rockford, (815) 921-2160, rockfordsymphony.com.
Rockford July 4th Celebration July 4, events all day. Highlights: 7 p.m. parade begins at 7th St./6th Ave., 6 p.m. entertainment by Carl Cole on S. Wyman and Elm Streets, 9:30 p.m. fireworks over downtown Rockford. Rockfordfireandice. com. WWE Live Summerslam Heatwave Tour July 5, 7 p.m. Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins in the WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match, Ryback vs. Bray Wyatt in the Intercontinental Championship Match. BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford, (815) 9685451, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com. Canoe Convoy July 6, 6 p.m. Explore the miles upon miles of paddling opportunities in Winnebago County. Equipment and guides $20, $5 shuttle fee if needed. Ages 10 and up. Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road, Rockford, (815) 3352915, winnebagoforest.org. Donation Day July 7, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Free admission to Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, Rockford, (815) 965-8146, klehm.org. jf gaziano & beatmerchants July 7, 5 p.m. Tuesday Evening in the Gardens Concert Series. Blues/jazz music. $5 adults; $3 teens; members/12 and under free. Food, beer & wine, beverages for sale. Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 2299390, andersongardens.org.
Enjoy a free showing of “The Lego Movie” on July 2 at Riverside Park.
“The Rhythm of the Night” July 7, 7 p.m. Sounds of Summer Concert Series. Food and beverages for sale. Free. Sinnissippi Band Shell, Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. 2nd St., Rockford. Rockfordparkdistrict.org. Rob Tomaro July 8, 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. Starlight Theatre: “Mary Poppins” July 8-12, 8 p.m. An umbrella-travelling nanny uses magic and common sense to teach a family how to value each other again. Rock Valley College, 3301 North Mulford Road, Rockford, (815) 921-2160, rockvalleycollege.edu. Friday Night Flix July 10, 7 p.m. Free showing of “How to Train Your Dragon 2.” Davis Park, 320 S. Wyman St., Rockford, (815) 489-8207, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com. 28th Annual ByronFest July 10-12, events daily. Live bands, carnival, food vendors, parade, car show, 5k run, art show. Downtown Byron, Ill., (815) 234-5500, byronfest.businesscatalyst.com. Symphony Saturdays: Wonderful Woodwinds July 11, 10 a.m. This family-friendly program introduces children and their parents to the woodwind, percussion, brass and string section of an orchestra. $10. Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford (815) 229-9390, andersongardens.org. ❚
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Restaurant of the Week
Fresh & From-Scratch at Lucha Cantina By Peggy Werner
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ucha Cantina, 1641 N. Alpine Road, at Edgebrook, is a Mexican restaurant with a very fresh twist. Most everything on the menu is made from scratch, using premium ingredients like grass-fed beef and free-range chicken. The salsas, dressings and sauces are made in-house daily and gluten-free and vegan items are identified on the menu. Even the cocktails are made with fresh fruit and juices; you’ll find no artificially flavored syrups here. And the selection of craft beers are mostly made by local brewers. The menu features enchiladas, quesadillas, steaks, fish, chiles rellenos, sandwiches, burgers, soups, salads, a kids menu, a $9 lunch menu, chips, salsa and sweets. The only items not homemade are the tortillas, chicken tenders and sweet potato fries. “We’ll make anything to order, if we have the ingredients,” says Shane Johnson, manager. “Our mission is to deliver a unique dining and drink experience for people, while helping to make Rockford a better place.” Lucha Cantina is owned by Josh Binning, who modeled it after three restaurants in Colorado that are owned by a friend.
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. $-$$. Bravo Pizza E Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Rd., South Beloit, (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $.
Appetizers include nachos loaded with fresh vegetables and cheese, with the option of adding a meat and/or salsa topping. Seven homemade salsas range from mild to extra spicy. Taco favorites include the Wahoo Fish Taco, built with cole slaw, spinach, guacamole, Pepper Jack cheese and cilantro dill sauce. A pulled pork taco is topped with freshly diced onion, olive Owner Josh Binning blend, spinach, sour cream and cheese. Among the featured burritos is the Killer Kilo, with pork, chicken, beef, rice and beans, spinach, cabbage, onion, sour cream and cheese. The Surf and Turf taco is made with Wahoo fish, shredded beef, rice, cheese, spinach, cabbage, onion, sour cream and a cilantro dill sauce. Lucha Cantina is open from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday through Thursday; and 11 a.m.-midnight Friday and Saturday. ❚
(815) 877-0505. L T-F 11:30am-2pm, Sat 2:30pm; D M-Th 5-9:30pm, F-Sat 10:30pm, Sun 4:30-9:30pm. $$.
In the Spotlight
Main Street Bistro E Upscale-Casual/Fine dining. Th&Sat. 109 S. Galena, Freeport, (815) 232-2322. M-Sat 2pm-midnight. $$.
Café Fromage
Maciano’s Pizza & Pastaria E Casual. Beer/wine. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, (815) 963-7869. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $$.
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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. $$. ❚
n May 2011, husband and wife Darren and Judith Larsen opened The Cheese People, 431 E. Grand Ave., Beloit. Their original intent was to extend their farmers markets sales of regional artisan cheeses to a retail space. They now also operate the adjacent Café Fromage, a coffee shop and restaurant. Along with gourmet coffees and teas and specialty coffeehouse drinks, the cafe offers pastries, baked goods, sandwiches and lunch and breakfast fare. Items are made fresh daily with local sourced ingredients when available. The Cheese People has at least 40 regional artisan cheeses on hand, including Sweet Cream Havarti, applewood smoked baby Swiss, a variety of goats’ milk cheeses, along with artisan and regional brews and wines, jams, honey and more. Café Fromage opens Mon.-Fri. at 7 a.m. and Sat.-Sun. at 8 a.m. ❚
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Tips to Keep Children Safe H
ome is where most people feel safest, yet for children, the home isn’t as safe as you might assume. About 3.5 million children go to the ER every year for injuries that happen in homes and 2,200 of them die. Here are 10 tips to make your home kidsafe. Find more at SafeKids.org or MakeSafeHappen.com. 1. Make sure there is a working smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas. Test the batteries every month. 2. Create and practice a home fire escape plan with your family. Know two ways out of every room in case of a fire. 3. Give young children your full and undivided attention when they’re in and around water. Only 1 percent of parents list drowning as a concern, yet every week a child dies from drowning in a bathtub. 4. For young children, use safety gates at the top and bottom stairs, attaching them to the wall if possible. 5. Keep cribs clear of toys and soft bedding; make sure babies sleep alone, on their backs, and in a crib every time they sleep. For children under the age of 1, suffocation is the leading cause of injury-related death. 6. Keep all medicine up and away, out of children’s reach and sight. Think about places where kids get into medicine, like in purses, on counters and on nightstands. 7. Store all household cleaners, liquid laundry packets and other toxic products out of children’s reach and sight. Use cabinet locks to prevent young children from getting into products that may cause them harm. 8. Save the Poison Help line number into your phone and post it in your home where anyone can find it easily in an emergency: 1-800-222-1222. 9. Secure flat-panel TVs by mounting them to the wall and place box-style TVs on a low, stable piece of furniture. 10. Properly install window guards or stops to help prevent falls from windows. Each year, 3,300 children are injured by falling out of a window, yet 70 percent of parents never use window guards or stops. ❚ (Source: BPT)
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How Well Do You Understand Social Security?
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mericans may have faith in the Social Security system, but many still don’t really understand how it works. That’s a key take-away from a recent survey. While 63 percent of respondents said they believe Social Security benefits will be available to them when they retire, many were confused about who qualifies for benefits, how much they’ll be eligible to receive, and when they can start drawing benefits without penalty. The survey, by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), included a true/false quiz about Social Security facts. Just 28 percent of those surveyed scored a passing grade, and only one person out of the 1,500 polled was able to answer all survey questions correctly. The survey results illustrated a significant lack of knowledge about Social Security, including: * More than seven in 10 respondents mistakenly thought that 65 is the age when everyone can begin drawing full
retirement benefits. Actually, your full retirement age depends on what year you were born. * 55 percent of those surveyed incorrectly believed they could continue working during retirement while collecting full Social Security benefits, regardless of their age. If you work during retirement, but have not yet reached your full retirement age, your Social Security benefits may be reduced if you earn too much. “Perhaps the greatest Social Security deficit in this country is the lack of education around the retirement benefits of the program,” says Michael R. Fanning, executive vice president, U.S. Insurance Group, MassMutual. “With millions of Americans nearing retirement each year, many may be at risk of underutilizing a critical component of their retirement income stream.” Still, some good news emerged, too. Americans seem aware that Social Security should be only one component of their
overall retirement savings plan. You can test your Social Security knowledge by taking the MassMutual quiz. For additional information on saving for retirement and Social Security benefits, visit MassMutual.com/SocialSecurity or the Social Security Administration. ❚ (Source: BPT)
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