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Special Tourism Issue: Welcome to Our Region!

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Right in Our Region

Magic in the Air at DeKalb Kite Fest

By Anna Girgenti n autumn tradition like no other will take place on Sept. 11 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in a blustery field on Northern Illinois University’s campus at the corner of Lucinda Avenue and Kishwaukee Drive in DeKalb. “Kite Fest is a family-friendly festival that spans generations,” says Debbie Armstrong, executive director of the DeKalb County

Convention & Visitors Bureau (DCCVB). “We have entire families, including grandparents, who attend this event together. It gets people to enjoy the outdoors. It brings back memories of your childhood and the sheer joy of flying a kite.” Armstrong co-chairs the festival with former board president Doug Nelson. 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! Freeport’s Art in the Park • Farmers Market Roundup • How to Choose a Contractor Effective Gutters Matter • Dining at Butterﬂy Club • Quick-Fix Salad

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Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • August 31, 2016

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 22 DeKalb Kite Fest Outdoor Living .................................................. ..8 Hire the Right Contractor Your Technology .............................................. ..33 Are You Paying Too Much for Tech Services? Your Home .................................................. ...... 11 Are Your Gutters Doing Their Job? Inspiration & Worship .......................................12 Untouchable Peace Your Kitchen ......................................................15 Delicious, Fast Bean Salad Your Outing ....................................................... 17 Freeport’s Art in the Park Your Health ............................................. ........... 25 You CAN Improve Your Health Your Fun ................................................... .......... 27 Dining Locally .......................................... ......... 29 The Butterﬂy Club Your Outing ....................................................... 29 Farmers Market Roundup

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Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Janine Pumilia Assistant Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen Deputy Editor Jermaine Pigee Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Ryan Contributing Writers Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes Account Executives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Website www.SmartLivingWeekly.com Published by Hughes Media Corp. 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 (815) 316-2300, Fax: (815) 316-2301 lhughes@northwestquarterly.com Smart Living Weekly. Copyright 2016 by Hughes Media Corp., 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

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Aug 31 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Local Tourism Up

ood news! Tourism revenue grew 3 percent last year, in the Rockford/ Winnebago County region, to nearly $350 million, says the Illinois Department of Commerce’s Office of Tourism. The continued growth is chalked up to the success of our sports tourism industry and leisure tourism partners like Discovery Center Museum, Anderson Japanese Gardens and others, says John Groh, president/ CEO of the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (RACVB). Tax revenue from tourism helps our local governments to pay for services we rely upon. It reached $5.9 million, a 6 percent increase over the prior year, says Groh. And, local tourism and hospitality industry employment grew 4 percent to 2,810 jobs. “We’re delighted to see such strong results again this year for the tourism economy in Winnebago County,” says RACVB Board Chair Roberta Holzwarth. “Sustained economic growth is crucial as we transform our region. The RACVB Board knows that the more we invest in our community to make it a dynamic destination, and the more we work to promote and market our destination, the greater our returns will be.” Overall Illinois tourism also grew in 2015, with expenditures topping $37 billion, a 2.6 percent increase from 2014. “With the UW Health Sports Factory now online and the advancements that have been made at Mercy Sportscore 2, the local tourism industry is poised for continued success in the years to come,” says Groh. “In addition, we continue to see the reinvestments being made in Rockford’s downtown core and the ripple effect that is having on our local events and attractions such as Rockford City Market, which is seeing record-breaking numbers of its own this summer.” Some good news is always welcome, right? Enjoy your week! ❚ Janine Pumilia Managing Editor

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O L

Find a Contractor with a Strong Work Ethic By Peggy Werner

ave you ever called a contractor, carpenter, painter or other tradesperson – only to be told “I’ll get back to you,” but you never hear from them again? “We hear that complaint from customers much more than you would think and I’m not sure why that is,” says Jim Flynn, manager of Bonte Construction, 6628 N. Deer Path Road, Oregon, Ill. Flynn and owner Greg Bonte have worked together in the building trades for more than 15 years and a large part of their success is because they have the same work ethic, says Flynn. Bonte branched off on his own to start Bonte Construction in 2011. Bonte Construction is one of the area’s leading contractors, specializing in construction, remodeling, additions,

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kitchens, bathroom, decks, siding, windows, doors and more. It services customers living in Byron, Oregon, Rockford and the surrounding area. Some companies just don’t have a strong work ethic. “Obviously, they don’t need the work or the income,” Flynn says of people who don’t follow through. They may be poor communicators, disorganized or just undependable. Some customers believe they get the brush-off from professionals because the

Aug 31 To advertise call 815-316-2300

job is too small or too difﬁcult. Again, that’s not a good business practice. “We don’t ignore any job,” says Flynn. “A little job can always mean more business from that customer in the future, in the form of more work or referrals. And if we can’t do the job, we’ll be honest about it,” he says. Flynn recommends always asking friends and family for names and phone numbers of people they know have done good work and are reliable. “Personally, I can’t understand why anyone would ignore someone,” says Flynn. “We pride ourselves in quality workmanship, do what we say we are going to do, and get the job done in a timely fashion. It’s just who we are.” For more information or to set up an appointment for a free estimate, call Bonte Construction at (815) 345-1586. ❚

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

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

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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Y H  G

Are Your Gutters Doing Their Job? By Peggy Werner

ne of the best ways to protect your home from top to bottom is to make sure your gutters are in good shape and doing their job. Worn out or clogged gutters can cause problems throughout a house, says Greg Green, president of Midwest Seamless Gutters and Siding, 929 S. Alpine Road, Suite 201, in Rockford. “The purpose of gutters is to direct rain water away from a house. If water backs up, it can go into the walls and foundation and cause a lot of damage,” he says. One inch of rain translates to 1,900 gallons of water rolling off a roof and if the gutters are not up to the task of redirecting the water, damage is inevitable. Visual clues that your gutters need attention include rain that’s splashing up or over the gutters, rather than going down the downspouts; concrete that’s pitted because of continual dripping; water

streaking down the sides of a house; gutters pulling away from the roof or sagging due to the heaviness of trapped water or the buildup of ice and snow; peeling paint, mold, or rotted wood underneath the gutters and siding; and eroding earth below gutters. Cleaning out gutters to keep them free of leaves, branches and other debris is not only a difficult job to keep up with, it can also be a dangerous job if being on the roof leads to accidents and falls. “Clogged gutters are also a prime breeding ground for mosquitoes and a perfect nesting spot for other insects and birds,” he says. Midwest Seamless Gutters and Siding cleans, repairs and installs gut-

ters. It also offers the Leafx® brand patented clog-free system with a written lifetime guarantee backed by both the manufacturer and the distributor. The leaf protection system is available in all price ranges, in dozens of colors, and installed by certified specialists. For more information or a free estimate, contact the company at (815) 7088113. ❚

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I  W

Peace Promised I t’s not like we risk our lives just to catch supper anymore. We live in one of the safest time periods and societies ever, enjoying average lifespans undreamed of just a century ago. Why, then, does high anxiety take such a toll on modern individuals? Jesus Christ taught us there are two kinds of personal peace: the kind found in the world, and the kind found in him. The ﬁrst depends upon on factors often beyond our control. The second is rooted in our faith; no one can take inner peace from us, although we can choose to relinquish it. Shortly before he was betrayed, Jesus began preparing his disciples for the terrible events that would follow. He understood their fear and anxiety. “Let not your heart be troubled: you believe in God, believe also in me.” (John 14:1) Clearly upset, the disciples asked him questions. Jesus explained that after he would leave the earth, “the Comforter” would come to dwell with them. “Even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it sees him not, neither knows him: but you know him; for he dwells in you and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless. I will come to you. Yet a little while and the world sees me no more; but you see me: because I live, you shall live also.” (John 14:17-19). Why would Jesus Christ ask his followers not to be troubled, unless it was possible to do so? “Peace I leave with you,” he says a few verses later in 14:27. “My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” Many more scriptures speak of the “peace that passes understanding” given to us by Jesus Christ, which is rooted in the hope of his return and the knowledge that we have eternal life through his grace. “These things I have spoken to you that in me you might have peace,” he says in John 16:33. “In the world you will have tribulation: But be of good cheer: I have overcome the world.” ❚ – Janine Pumilia

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Make a Delicious, Quick-Fix Bean Salad A

great salad is always a welcome choice. Bean salads are perennial favorites, and this simple, satisfying, prizewinning recipe won’t disappoint. To recreate a winning recipe from the recent Seneca Foods Mystery Box recipe contest, begin with a pantry staple, READ 3 or 4 Bean Salad. Smart cooks keep a couple of cans or single-serve cups in the refrigerator, ready to serve as a side dish or to kick start a salad, like this Chipotle Chicken and Bean Quinoa Salad.

The ready-to-eat combo of green, wax and kidney beans is delicious mixed with cooked quinoa, chicken and a subtly spicy, smoky chipotle dressing accented with lime juice and cilantro. Spooned into lettuce cups to serve, it’s the easiest main dish ever, and it’s a tasty way to use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken.

To prepare dressing: In small bowl, whisk together reserved liquid, lime juice, adobo sauce, mustard, salt and pepper. Whisk in oil until completely combined. Stir in cilantro; set aside. In medium bowl, combine bean salad, quinoa, chicken, onions and minced chipotle pepper. Add dressing; toss gently. If chilled salad is desired, cover and refrigerate 2 hours, or as long as overnight.

To serve, divide bean salad mixture equally among lettuce cups. Note: To make salad for one, drain single-serve cup of bean salad; reserve 1 1/2 teaspoons of liquid and place bean salad in small bowl. Add 1/2 cup cooked quinoa, 1/4 cup diced cooked chicken, 1 tablespoon sliced green onion

and 1 teaspoon minced chipotle pepper. Whisk together reserved bean liquid, 1 1/2 teaspoons lime juice, 3/4 teaspoon adobo sauce, 1/4 teaspoon mustard and salt and pepper, as desired. Whisk in 2 teaspoons olive oil. Add dressing to bean mixture and toss. Spoon into 1 Bibb lettuce leaf. ❚ Source: Family Features

Double the recipe if needed or if opting for a single serving, it couldn’t be simpler. Start with an individual serving cup of salad and decrease dressing ingredients as the recipe directs. Chipotle Chicken and Bean Quinoa Salad Cups 1 can (15 ounces) READ 3 or 4 Bean Salad 2 TB freshly squeezed lime juice 1 TB adobo sauce (from canned chipotle pepper in adobo sauce) 1 tsp. Dijon mustard 1/4 tsp. kosher salt 1/8 tsp. black pepper 3 TB olive oil 1/4 cup ﬁnely chopped fresh cilantro 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa 1 cup diced cooked chicken 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions 1 chipotle pepper, minced (from canned chipotle pepper in adobo sauce) 4 leaves Bibb lettuce Preparation Drain bean salad; reserve 2 Tb. liquid. Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

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Freeport’s Art in the Park is Sunday, Sept. 4 W

hen Labor Day approaches, you know it’s time for Freeport’s Art in the Park, which takes place each year on the Sunday before Labor Day. A joint effort of Freeport Park District and Freeport Art Museum, this year’s event is Sept. 4 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at lovely Krape Park, 1799 S. Park Blvd. Art in the Park features fine art for sale, such as paintings, jewelry, ceramics, pottery, photography, sculpture, wooden items, prints and more. The event also includes live performances, demonstrations of various art media and children’s hands-on activities. Vendors sell delicious cuisine and visitors can explore the unique amenities of Krape Park, such as the authentic working carousel, fenced-in duck farm, waterfall, children’s play areas, canoes and paddle boats and band shell. Live music is presented all day long. At 10 a.m., The Sunshine opens the day with music. This duo of South Dakota native Elliott Graber and Rockford native

Kevin Earlywine offers a unique blend of old-fashioned harmony singing and exciting percussive guitar. At 11:30 a.m., independent folk music songwriter and performer Kendra Swanson takes the stage. Her expressive vocals center around themes of the American heartland. At 1 p.m., Greg Herriges performs solo, duo with percussion, and with many configurations of the full group Telluric Currents, which includes tabla and bass, plus special appearances by vocalist Pooja Goswami and others. The Lone Canary takes the stage from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. This folk/ Americana duo of Rockford residents Jesse Fox and Heather Camacho has an acoustic, rootsy sound. The pair grew up as childhood friends, playing music together. Jesse, a solo artist since 2008, and Heather, who occasionally played and sang with him, officially joined forces in June of 2014 to form The Lone Canary.

Capping the entertainment lineup is SeaSaw, from 4 to 5 p.m., made up of members Eve Wilczewski and Meg Golz. Fate and a Freeport restaurant brought them together for the first time in 2010. Seasaw collaborated long-distance until the summer of 2015, when Eve joined Meg in their current residence of Madison, Wis. Learn more at freeportparkdistrict. org or freeportartmuseum.org. ❚

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Kite Fest Continued from Cover

“We’re celebrating our 11th year on the 11th of September. That makes it our golden year –kind of like a golden birthday,” says Armstrong. The tradition began when members of a local family, the Overmanns, flew kites together at a festival while traveling. The family wanted to bring a kite festival to their community, so they sought help and support from the DeKalb Chamber. “At that time, we were just a tourism committee that was part of the DeKalb Chamber,” says Armstrong. The DCCVB is now a certified Bureau with the Illinois Office of Tourism and the host of DeKalb’s annual Kite Fest. The festival’s success reflects DeKalb County’s development over the past decade. Only a few hundred people attended in 2006, but now the event attracts between 3,000 and 5,000 people,

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including residents and visitors from the suburbs and neighboring states. Chicago Kite, a specialty kite store at 5445 N. Harlem Ave. in Chicago, will be selling all types of kites at the festival, from simple to delta kites and complex show kites. Ten years ago, Kite Fest caught the attention of Dave Zavell, Chicago Kite’s owner. Since then, the store has been a vendor at the festival every year. Zavell also coordinates groups of specialty kite flyers to perform at the event. These flyers bring colorful specialty kites reaching up to 90 feet in length. “We’re always excited to welcome back our friends that provide the kites and fly for us. They make Kite Fest what it is,” says Armstrong. “It’s their generosity and joy of flying that keep them coming back to DeKalb every second Sunday in September. Some have traveled from as far as Michigan and Wisconsin to fly for us.” This year, the festival will feature 15 Wisconsin flyers. In addition to many

Aug 31 To advertise call 815-316-2300

returning flyers, Kite Fest will host show kite flyers Al Sparling and Darryl Waters and one new sport team, Team Sky-FX from Ohio. “The types of kites flying will depend on the weather, but we’re planning to fly kites of all different shapes and forms, including two line controllable kites, stunt kites and quad-line kites,” Zavell says.

R  O R The festival is more than just a spectacle of flying colors; it’s a way for families to make lifelong memories together. “My favorite part is watching the families enjoy it,” says Zavell. Kids especially enjoy the kite candy drop, when a small kite with a parachute attached leads them onto the field and drops candy from the sky. “The kite can’t hold enough candy for all the kids so

volunteers help throw candy out, too. The kids just love it,” says Armstrong. The time of the candy drop and other events will depend on weather conditions. Kids can also build their own kites for free, with the help of volunteers; many of them are NIU students. Normally, NIU’s mascot, Victor E. Huskie, also makes an appearance. “The Huskie students love volunteering for this event and everyone loves a photo with the mascot,” says Armstrong. Unlike many kite festivals, this one allows visitors to fly their own kites in designated areas. Visitors can bring their own food and drinks, too. Treats will be sold by SweetDream Desserts & Catering and

Cream King ice cream truck. Along with the festival’s many sponsors, several nonprofits will set up booths in the field and provide activities for kids. The sponsors cover all festival costs. See the DeKalb Kite Fest Facebook page for a full list of sponsors. Admission is free. Parking next to the field costs $3 in cash per car. For more information call (815) 756-1336 or visit dekalbcountycvb.com. ❚

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‘I Feel So Much Better Today’ By Peggy Werner

im Knoll faced the sad facts about being out of shape and decided it was time to make some changes. That was two years ago and today, at 58, he doesn’t smoke, feels great, has gained muscle weight and is stronger than ever, having at least doubled the amount of weight he can lift doing the dead lift and squats. “There’s no price tag you can put on being healthier, but there is a price to pay. You have to work at it and do what you have to do to meet your goals,” he says. A bad bout with the flu made Knoll realize what bad shape he was in at the time. While sick, he was so weak that he couldn’t get outside to smoke; he figured maybe he could really quit, this time – and he did. Two weeks later, he was rolling a set of tires from a shed to his car and became so out of breath, he felt alarmed. Knoll did some research on how to

improve his health and decided to hire a personal trainer. At Peak Sports Club, he signed up for the free Fitness Consultation and was paired with Personal Trainer Phil Toldo. “I didn’t know what I was doing. I didn’t want to hurt myself and I wanted to be accountable to someone. I knew if someone was waiting for me to show up, I’d be more motivated to get to the gym,” he says. “My progress has been steady, and even though I don’t look like I’m having a lot of fun, I am. Getting started was probably harder for Phil than for me, because he had to watch me gasp for air. But he’s been really good for me, helping me to see things I wouldn’t be aware of otherwise. I never thought I would be able to lift the amount of weight I’m lifting, but I remember what it felt like when I couldn’t,” he says. He works with his trainer two days a week and on his own another three days.

Making fitness a part of his daily routine was tough at first, he says, but working hard and meeting goals is satisfying. He says a good trainer is encouraging, motivating, demonstrates correct form and helps you to set up a schedule. Knowing someone is there to spot you and make suggestions allows you the freedom to challenge yourself even more. “I feel so much better today. My posture has improved and the strength I’ve acquired carries over into being able to do more at home and work. I have more energy, confidence, strength, and a better attention span,” he says. This year, he picked up the tires and carried them. “It makes a big difference.” ❚

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Y F Autumn just might be the best time of year. The sun is a little lower (and prettier), the air is a little crisper (and cleaner) and the leaves cascade down in colorful splendor. This fall, spend some quality time in the fun, nearby, value-packed Rockford Region. See stunning fall colors at

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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

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glowing in autumn’s glory. Indoors, our concert and theater season will be gaining momentum at Coronado Performing Arts Center, a beautifully restored downtown vaudeville house. Plus, our Riverfront Museum Campus will be coming alive for the whole family. Visit gorockford.com today for a full list of autumn special events, festivals, gardens, golf and more.

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Tourism

Attractions & Events

Tunes on the Terrace: Frank Calvagna Aug. 31, 5 p.m. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a free concert from Frank Calvagna. Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens, 1354 N. Rockford, IL 61101 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com 2nd St., Rockford, (815) 987-8858, nicholasconservatory.com. 9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

Concerts on the Creek: Groove Hotel Sept. 3, 7-9 p.m. Enjoy a free, family-friendly concert in a beautiful auditorium. Groove Hotel is an up-tempo funk and soulful jazz ensemble. Pizza from Mamma Mia’s, canned soda, bottled water and popcorn available. Spring Creek United Church of Christ, 4500 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 877-2576, springcreekucc. org. RAMP River Run Sept. 3, 6:30 a.m. registration, 7:30 a.m. half marathon, 7:45 a.m. 5K, 8 a.m. kids fun run, 8:30 a.m. 3K walk & wheel, 8:45 a.m. half marathon & 5K top ﬁnisher awards, 9:30 a.m. 3K. Trolley Station at Riverview Park, 324 N. Madison St., Rockford, (815) 968-7467, rampriverrun.com. Art in the Park Sept. 4, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. This exciting event features activities throughout Krape Park: fine art displays, performing arts, demonstrations of various art media and children’s hands-on activities. Experience outdoor cuisine at various food vendors on site. Additionally, explore the fine amenities of Krape Park: an authentic working carousel, a fenced-in duck farm, children’s play areas, canoes and paddle boats, a band shell and more. Krape Park, 1799 South Park Blvd., Freeport, artintheparkfreeport.com. Tunes on the Terrace: Three Good Men Sept. 7, 6 p.m. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy music along the banks of the Rock River. Food and beverages are available beginning at 5 p.m. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, Rockford, (815) 987-8858, nicholasconservatory. com/tunes-on-the-terrace. AE: Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike Sept. 9-25. Adult siblings bicker over their costumes for an upcoming party while their (possibly psychic) housekeeper prophesies doom in this hilarious Tony winner for best play. Presented by Artists’ Ensemble. Cheek Theatre, Rockford College, 5050 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 394-5004, artistsensemble.org.

Hear Douglas Dawson's perspective on living in Japan on Sept. 15 at Anderson Japanese Gardens.

Greek Fest 2016 Sept. 9-11, Fri. 5-11 p.m., Sat. noon-11 p.m., Sun. noon-9 p.m. Enjoy dancing (both modern and traditional Greek), food, Greek and domestic beers and wines, baked goods, vendors and a rafﬂe drawing. Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 108 N. 5th St., Rockford, (815) 963-8625, rockfordgreekfest.com. Roscoe Lions Club Annual Fall Festival Sept. 9-11, Fri. 5-10 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.-10p.m., Sun. noon-8 p.m. The Roscoe Lions Club hosts the village’s annual Fall Festival, featuring amusement rides, music, parades, rafﬂes. Leland Park, 10701 3rd St., (815) 623-2435, roscoelionsclub. com. Music on the Mall: Blue Lightning Band Sept. 9, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Experience live music at its best. Food and drinks from Mary’s Market available. Mary’s Market Café and Bakery, 1639 N. Alpine Road, Rockford, (815) 394-0765, edgebrookshops.com. Screw City Beer Fest 2016 Sept. 10, 1-5:30 p.m. The sixth annual Screw City Beer Festival features dozens of American craft breweries. Sample more than 130 beers. Downtown Rockford, West State St. and Main St., Rockford, screwcitybeerfest.com. Evoking Native Landscape Using Japanese Garden Principles Sept. 15, 7 p.m. Hear one gardener/potter/art dealer’s perspective on living in Japan. Presentation by Douglas Dawson. Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 316-3307, andersongardens.org. ❚

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

Smart Living Weekly

Aug. 31

WDL

Restaurant of the Week

The Butterfly Club

By Sarah Soenke hether you’re coming off Interstate 43 or taking advantage of the scenic drive through the back roads, The Butterfly Club, 5246 E. Co. Road X, Beloit, is the perfect place to enjoy the picturesque hills and valleys of southern Wisconsin. This nostalgic fine dining establishment celebrates the longheld traditions of the Wisconsin supper club. Diners can socialize in the spacious lounge, sip on classic cocktails and enjoy live entertainment surrounded by historic Wisconsin decor of decades past. Large green plush chairs, green walls and mirrored ceilings preserve the vintage, laid-back feel. And singer Mike Williamson, known for his pop and jazz standards, performs every Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m., except on the last Friday of every month. Since 1994, brothers Mike and Hektor Sala have co-owned The Butterfly Club and overseen its continued success. The restaurant opened as the Butterfly Tea Room in 1924, and has gone through several owners and structural changes. Today, it mixes modern amenities with a traditional supper club menu. “Late summer is a wonderful time to stop by The Butterfly Club because diners can take advantage of our outdoor deck and

Hektor and Mike Sala, owners of The Butterfly Club.

perhaps enjoy a popular ice cream drink, such as a brandy Alexander or grasshopper,” says Mike. Beyond its extensive drink list, The Butterfly Club serves upscale American fare. Ribs and seafood are favorites, as is the 8-oz. prime rib, served with three Honduran shrimp and a side of au gratin potatoes, and the shrimp de jonghe, a puff pastry filled with shrimp, butter, sherry, mushrooms and onions, topped with bread crumbs. Daily specials include a Friday fish fry and prime rib on Tuesdays and Thursdays. “We feel we have the best lounge within 100 miles,” Mike says. “The layout is beautiful – large windows with great views and comfortable, oversized chairs. It’s the way a supper club should be.” ❚

In the Spotlight

Top Picks for Local Restaurants 9 East Coffee E Casual/Coffeehouse. Specialty coffees, pastries, breakfast, lunch. 9 E. Stephenson St., Freeport, (815) 233-7300, BkL M-F 7am-3pm, Sat 7am-2pm. $ Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Authentic Mexican. 107 W. Main St., Poplar Grove, Ill., (815) 765-1144. LD M 11am8pm; T-Th to 9pm; F to 10pm; Sun noon-8pm. $. Bravo Pizza E Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, South Beloit, Ill., (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. $-$$. Costa’s Ristorante E Upscale-Casua/Italian. 133 Blackhawk Dr., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. LD Daily 4pm. $-$$. Franchesco’s Ristorante E Upscale/Italian-American. Sommelier, live entertainment. 7128 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 229-0800. LD Sun-Th 4-9pm, F-Sat to 10pm. $$ Fresco at the Gardens. E Casual/American Café. Fresh, localsourced ingredients. 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 316-2256 BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$

5-9:30pm, F-Sat to 10:30pm, Sun 4:30-9:30pm. $$. Local Dough Cafe E Restaurant/cafe. Baked goods, breakfast, lunch, dinner, beer, wine. 202 W. Main St., Rockton, (815) 957-0584. BkLD W-Sun 7 am-6 pm. $. Main Street Meat Co E Deli/bakery. Quality meats, seafood, café/bakery with catering services. 9515 N. 2nd St., Roscoe, (815) 623-6328. BkLD M-F 8 am-6:30 pm; Sat. 8 am-6 pm; Sun. 9 am-5 pm. $. Mamma Mia’s E Casual/American. Pizza, pasta, sandwiches, wraps. 1139 N. Alpine Road, Rockford, (815) 399-6262. LD M-Th 4-9pm, F 11am-10pm, Sat 4-10pm, Sun to 9pm. $$ Maxson Riverside Restaurant E Casual/American. 1469 IL Rt. 2, Oregon, Ill., (800) 468-4222. LD M-Sat 11am-8pm; Br Sun 10am-3pm. $$. Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint E Fine Dining. Ironworks Hotel, 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, (608) 313-0700. D Sun-Th 4:30-9pm, Fri-Sat to 10pm. $$. Napoli Pizzeria III & Top Dollar Slots E Takeout/delivery. 6560 N. Alpine, Loves Park, Ill., (815) 877-9888. LD Daily 11am.

GreenFire � Upscale-Casual/American contemporary. Seasonal cuisine; local-sourced ingredients; gourmet market; live entertainment. 6795 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, (815) 316-3473. BkLD M-F 11am; Sat-Sun 8 am. Bar open late. $$.

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. $-$$.

JMK Nippon Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar E UpscaleCasual. Food cooked tableside. 2551 N. Perryville, Rockford, (815) 877-0505. L T-F 11:30am-2pm, Sat to 2:30pm; D M-Th

Thrive Café E Casual/Cafe. Salads, wraps, sandwiches, smoothies, cold-pressed juices. Inside Peak Fitness, 4401 Peak Drive, Loves Park, Ill. BkLD M-F 6am-8pm, Sat 8am-2pm. ❚

Smart Living Weekly

Aug 31 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Arturo’s

rturo’s at 107 W. Main St., Poplar Grove, Ill., is run by Arturo Torres, who learned to cook authentic Mexican food in Guadalajara, Mexico. He uses only fresh, from-scratch ingredients. Fan favorites include tacos, fajitas, 10 Finger Burritos and enchilada dinners. American dishes include steaks, burgers, chicken wings and seafood plates. There’s also an expanding selection of domestic and imported beers, and, of course, the house margarita. Breakfast is served Saturdays and Sundays, starting at 7 a.m., with 12 to 15 authentic Mexican options like huevos rancheros, chilaquiles, juevos tirados and huevos con chorizos, along with American fare. Arturo’s expects to open a rooftop beer garden by the end of 2017. Hours: Mon.-Thu. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri.Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and Sun. 12 p.m.-8 p.m. ❚

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Aug 31

Y O

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

Smart Living Weekly

Aug 31 To advertise call 815-316-2300

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 ❚

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Aug 31

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Aug 31 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Aug 31

Smart Living Weekly

Aug 31 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Smart Living Weekly

Issue 1