Smart Living Weekly February 5, 2020

Sm mart a r t L iving Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • Feb 5, 2020

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Right in Our Region

Enjoy City Market Fun All Year Long See Page 16

Choosing a House Cleaner About Water-Borne Illnesses Tips for Gas-Powered Equipment Recipe: Shrimp Egg Roll Bowl

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$50 Gift Card to ReTool See Pg. 28 Details

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 16 Year-Round Fun at Indoor Rockford City Market Your Home ................................................ . 11, 19 Gas Fireplace Options; Hiring a House Cleaner Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Justice Loves Truth Your Kitchen ......................................................15 Egg Roll Bowl with Shrimp Your Outdoor Living .................................. ....... 21 Tips for Using Gas-Powered Equipment Your Health ............................................. .......... 23 Understanding Water-borne Infectious Diseases Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 Gene’s Irish Pub Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 26 Your Outing .................................................24, 29 February City Market Events; Outdoor Winter Fun

Smart L iving ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen Lukas Assistant Managing Editor Jermaine Pigee Editor Emeritus Janine Pumilia Multimedia Editor Sara Myers Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Behling Contributing Writer Peggy Werner, Paula Kalivoda Furniss General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes Advertising Sales Representatives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones, Nita Lasky Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Distribution Kelly Fairbairn 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 2020 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 Keep it Up! L

ocal businesses are telling us that you supported them enthusiastically during the holiday season. This is great news! It means we’re thinking beyond big box and online sites when making purchases. Supporting local owners is crucial to our local economy. Why? Because that money recirculates here instead of enriching outof-state executives who care nothing about us.

With the holidays behind us, however, local businesses are vulnerable to slumps. To keep building momentum for a lively retail community, we need to “think local” year-round.

A fine opportunity to do that this is coming up this Friday, Feb. 7, from 4 to 8 p.m., when the indoor Rockford City Market hosts Love is in the Air at its 116 N. Main St. location.

Shoppers can purchase gifts for their valentines (both two- and four-legged) from 16 local vendors. Items range from jewelry and stuffed toys to dog treats and more. Live acoustic classic rock music will be presented by Mark Sturm.

Learn more in our articles on pages 24 & 29.

I’m happy we’re running this cover story because many folks still don’t know the year-round, indoor City Market exists. The space is owned by Rock River Development Partnership (RRDP), founded in 2009 to connect local entrepreneurs with local customers and strengthen our urban core. The astounding popularity of Rockford City Market proves that we hunger for what’s local, genuine and sociable in our downtown and beyond.

Fledgling businesses are getting their start inside the Indoor City Market, which rents out a shared commercial kitchen. Others have already launched, in part because of exposure they received at City Market, such as Woodfire Brick Oven Pizza and The Canine Crunchery.

Behind every successful project is strong leadership and RRDP is no exception. Cathy McDermott, with her staff and countless volunteers, deserves big thanks for her commitment to strengthening our local business scene.

“Use it or lose it,” as they say. We’re using it!

And together we’re building a better region.

Have a great week! ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor

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Y H  G

Understanding Natural Gas Fireplace Options N

othing says “cozy” like a fireplace and many homeowners prefer to burn natural gas. The three main kinds of gas fireplaces are vented gas logs, vent-free gas logs and direct-vent fireplaces. Each has unique benefits.

“It’s about finding the best fit with your space and circumstances,” says Kevin Obee, Benson Stone Co., 1100 11th St., Rockford.

Vent-Free Gas Logs/Stoves • No chimney needed • Almost 100-percent efficient • Smaller, less realistic flames: yellow in newer models, blue in older models “The fire throws off a large amount of moist heat, so this is a good option for warming up difficult-to-heat spaces, such as a chilly basement or a large room with vaulted ceilings,” says Obee.

These fireplaces must be placed in well-ventilated rooms, to avoid condensation. Any combustion byproducts are released into the room’s atmosphere, since there is no vent. “This bothers only a few people who are very sensitive to chemical smells,” Obee says.

Vented Gas Logs • Attractive, heat-producing flames • Can go into an existing fireplace • Requires professional installation of gas line “The big disadvantage is that it draws warm air from other parts of the house and sends it outside,” explains Obee. “Your

furnace may run nonstop and other rooms may become pretty chilly.”

Direct-Vent Gas Fireplaces • On/off switch • Attractive, efficient fire • Glass doors protect room’s air quality • Double-chambered chimney keeps warm air inside • Free-standing or built-in; can be installed almost anywhere “One chamber draws combustion air into the fireplace and the other vents flue gas to the outside,” explains Obee. “Heated air from your house is not being sent outside.” ❚

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I  W

Justice Loves Truth

J

ustice is a concept of key importance in the Bible. Our just God expects us to behave justly to all people.

A frequent companion of justice in scripture is truth.

“For the word of the Lord is right and true; he is faithful in all he does. The Lord loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love.” – Psalm

33:4 & 5

“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” – Micah 6:8 Without real commitment to “tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth,” there is no justice. Truth is so important that God made the eighth commandment: “Thou shall not bear false witness against thy neighbor.”

How many human souls languish in prisons, both literal and mental, unjustly convicted by false witness of dictators or other selfish humans who find lies more convenient than truth? Such obstruction of justice is an abomination to God. Both testaments tell us God wants justice meted out evenly to all people.

“Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the great, but judge your neighbor fairly.” – Leviticus 19:15

This concept undergirds a U.S. belief in the rights of the accused to receive a fair trial and a legitimate defense. As in all areas of life, the strong are expected to help the weak realize God-given rights.

“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”

– Proverbs 31:8 & 9.

God promises a future of justice to those with faith in Jesus Christ.

“In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth.”

- Isaiah 42:4

Until then, our job is to uphold blind justice and truth, however inconvenient this may be to us personally.

“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” – Matthew 25:40. ❚ (All verses NIV).

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– Janine Pumilia

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Y K

Egg Roll Bowl with Shrimp W

ith some simple changes - and timesaving recipes - you can create delicious dishes and meals that will keep you feeling energized to fuel your busy lifestyle.

For example, these quick and easy recipes for a main course, snacks and even desserts are all part of the Atkins low-carb lifestyle, a long-term, healthy eating approach focused on high-fiber carbohydrates, optimal protein and healthy fats. Learn more at Atkins.com.

Egg Roll Bowl with Shrimp Servings: 4

5 cups frozen cauliflower rice 3 TB canola oil 3 TB sesame oil 4 tsp. minced or pressed garlic 2 tsp. ginger paste 6 cups pre-cut carrots & cabbage 1 cup sliced red bell pepper 1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions, root and tips trimmed

1 1/4 2 1 4

tsp. Chinese five-spice blend cup tamari soy sauce TB mirin rice cooking wine lb. cooke, peeled shrimp tsp. sesame seeds

In microwave, steam cauliflower according to package instructions.

While cauliflower is cooking, warm large, nonstick skillet with lid over medium heat. Add oils, swirl to coat pan and, when shimmering, add garlic and ginger. Saute until sizzling and fragrant, stirring constantly, about 30 seconds.

Add coleslaw, bell pepper and scallions; continue sautÈing, stirring frequently, until cabbage just begins to wilt, about 3 minutes.

Sprinkle on five-spice blend and stir to incorporate. Add soy sauce and mirin rice cooking wine to pan and stir to evenly coat cabbage. Add shrimp to skillet; toss to evenly distribute. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover with lid and allow shrimp to warm, about 3 minutes.

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Measure about 1 cup cooked cauliflower rice into bottom of four bowls. Top evenly with shrimp and cabbage mixture, about 1 cup vegetables and 9-11 large shrimp per serving, drizzling with pan sauce evenly. Sprinkle each bowl with 1 tsp. sesame seeds and serve while hot.

Notes: To help meal come together quickly, use frozen cauliflower rice, pregrated ginger paste, pre-minced jarred garlic and bagged coleslaw mix. Green onions and bell pepper can also be presliced.

(Source: Family Features)

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Right in Our Region

Indoor City Market is Year-Round Fun

By Peggy Werner ost people know Rockford City Market offers a fun opportunity to stroll along the riverfront with loved ones, browse the wares of local vendors and listen to outdoor live music in summer and fall.

Not everyone knows it’s much more than that.

The market has a year-round indoor space at 116 N. Madison St., where small businesses sell their goods. The restored turn-of-the-century building offers spaces people can rent for meetings, weddings and other events. People can attend year-round activities and classes there, explains Cathy McDermott, executive director of Rock River Development Partnership, the owner of Rockford City Market. There’s a large, licensed commercial kitchen that can be rented by fledgling businesses. Plans are underway to offer

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cooking classes in the kitchen, both for children and adults.

“It has become an entity all its own with both an indoor facility and outdoor market where people from the community can get together to buy locally grown produce and handmade goods, encouraging entrepreneurs to start a business, or grow a business by getting exposure,” says McDermott. “It’s a great forum where small businesses can grow and make adjustments based on what is and isn’t working for them.”

This spring, the The Velvet Robot Coffee Lab will open inside the indoor market. It debuted at the outdoor market last summer and was so popular that its owner, Rockford native Justin Carner, applied to open a full menu location inside the market.

Other tenants inside the indoor city

market include Crust and Crumbles, an artisan bakery café offering breads, croissants, Danishes and other baked good as well as coffee and breakfast items on Saturday; Ronit’s Kitchen, offering Mediterranean-style cuisine inspired by generations of family recipes from Israel; and Quixotic Bakery, which sells ice cream, bakery items and chocolates.

Several other local businesses got their start at the outdoor market, including Woodfire Brick Oven Pizza, Bella Luna Bakery, Bath & Body Fusion, The Canine Crunchery and Candle Crest Soy Candles.

McDermott emphasizes that local businesses play a vital role in any community and the city market is a good forum to help them get off the ground.

“Local businesses are important because they’re the heart of your city and

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Right in Our Region

See the February event schedule for Rockford City Market in our related story, on page 24.

it needs to be a vibrant heart,” she says.

“Larger stores and chain restaurants have their purpose, but when people are looking for a place to work and live, they want to see a unique downtown with local businesses and lots of activities and events that are a part of the local life.”

It’s a trend happening nationwide.

About 50 years ago, urban sprawl pushed people and businesses out of downtowns to malls and the suburbs. Today, communities everywhere are seeing a revival of downtowns as a place where people can get many of their needs met

within a walkable space.

In Rockford, the outdoor city market has grown every year and has helped to revive the downtown. It raises the visibility of the downtown, attracting visitors from surrounding counties and beyond. Today, more than 70 vendors attract more than 100,000 people each summer.

Vendor applications are being accepted beginning in February for the upcoming season. Hours will be 3:30 to 8:30 p.m. every Friday May 15 to Sept.

25. (7:30 p.m. closing after Labor Day).

The outdoor market features local growers and vendors who sell handmade products including vegetables, fruit, eggs, meat, cheeses, flowers, herbs, baked goods, beer, wine and prepared food and more. Most vendors originate within 150 miles of Rockford.

McDermott said the market is always looking to include more farmers and locally grown produce. It offers them

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a special reduced vendor rate to encourage participation. Future plans include having more onsite cooking demonstrations so people can get ideas for how to use the produce.

The “footprint” of the outdoor market has grown to include East State Street to the south and the Jefferson Street bridge to the north; Water Street to the west and the Market Street alley to the east.

The market, which began in June 2010, expanded in the spring of 2019 to include the indoor market, which is open from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday; from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday; and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday.

The market hall, which is among the larger event spaces in the indoor market, is accessible from the outdoor pavilion. It offers additional space for vendors, a portable bar and additional seating for eating, drinking and getting out of the sun during the summer season. ❚

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What to Ask Before Hiring a House Cleaner

By Janine Pumilia

H

iring someone to clean your house can be a real pleasure. Who doesn’t love coming home to a clean home? And who couldn’t use the time it frees up, especially now that two-income households are the norm? For the cost of one family dinner out, this pleasure could be yours.

Before you hand your house key to a stranger, however, be sure to ask these questions, suggests Paul Wheelock, owner of Merry Maids franchises in five local counties.

• What’s your security protocol?

Wheelock personally runs federal background checks on every person he hires.

“State background checks alone are not enough,” he says. “My guideline is that I won’t hire anyone I wouldn’t give my own house key to.”

• Can you provide proof of insurance? “If a company isn’t insured and bonded, you could be responsible for any

injuries that occur on your property,” says Wheelock. All Merry Maids employees are insured, bonded and covered by Worker’s Compensation.

• How well are your employees treated? High turnover is never good.

Companies that respect employees will attract better people who take more pride in their work.

“We offer a career experience to our employees,” says Wheelock. “We provide benefits like paid time off and a retirement plan. This helps us to find the best people and keep them onboard.”

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• Is the work guaranteed? Expectations on both sides should be well communicated to avoid conflicts. “We’ll come back and make right anything that a customer feels was not properly done,” says Wheelock.

• How do pricing and payment options work? “We do a walk-through before a final price is set,” says Wheelock.

“Be wary of companies that skip this step and offer a ‘free cleaning,’ sight unseen, as a gimmick.” You get what you pay for.

As for payment methods, “We offer options for encrypted, secure online payment so you don’t have to bother with checks or cash.” Online software allows you to get a rough idea of how your cleaning job will be priced or you can get an estimate over the phone.

Merry Maids specializes in residential work. A typical cleaning schedule is 1.5 to 3 hours every two weeks.

Learn more at Merrymaids.com. ❚

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O L

Tips for Using Gas-Powered Equipment

By Peggy Werner

W

hen it comes to using gas-powered equipment successfully, you’ll only get as far as your gasoline takes you, no matter what season you’re in.

Gasoline doesn’t have the shelf life it used to have, says Tim Kinney, general manager of Lincoln Rental and Sales Inc. The shelf life is about 30 days when stored in small containers, so it’s important to keep a fresh supply on hand.

“When gasoline gets too old, it will gum up carburetors and you won’t be able to start the engine,” he explains. “At that point, you have to get to a service center, where the carburetor has to be taken out and cleaned.”

The Environmental Protection Agency requires small engine manufacturers to make engines run cleaner for fuel efficiency and a cleaner burn for the protection of the environment, Kinney says. As a result, the openings for gasoline to flow

through have been made smaller, which causes them to plug up easier if gasoline is of poor quality or gets old. When fuel gets too old, it separates, collects moisture and is contaminated. Ethanol-free gasoline has a higher energy content so it delivers more power when burned, providing more mileage on less fuel.

Ethanol-free fuels are more expensive but well worth it, if you want gasoline to last longer and burn cleaner, Kinney says. Hardware stores and lawn and garden centers sell containers of ethanolfree fuel. More gas stations are making the choice available, too, he says.

A good rule of thumb is to drain or run dry any gas-powered equipment before the end of a season, when getting ready to store lawn mowers, snowblowers, hedge trimmers, string trimmers, leaf blowers etc.

“At the start of any season, always

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start your equipment with fresh gas, change the oil, and check the spark plugs and air filter to have the best chance of getting through the season with as few problems and headaches as possible,” says Kinney.

Lincoln Rent-All is located at 6625 E. Riverside Blvd. (815) 633-9322, and 3110 Auburn St., (815) 968-0931. Both are open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. ❚

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Understanding Water-Borne Diseases B y To n i R o c h a

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oronavirus is in the news, but it’s only one kind of infectious disease.

Like staph and hepatitis, it spreads directly from human to human. Other diseases spread from animal/insect to human, such as Lyme and West Nile. Still others are water-borne, such as cholera and typhoid.

Of water-borne diseases, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that 3 to 5 million people worldwide are infected with cholera; 130,000 cases prove fatal. About 12.5 million cases of typhoid are recorded annually, most commonly in Southeast Asia, causing Dr. Vijaya Somaraju, medical director of in149,000 deaths. fectious disease at BeU n d e r d e v e l - loit Health System.

oped countries are most likely to see water-borne diseases, but at least 400 cases are diagnosed in the U.S. each year. Numbers swell after massive natural disasters, when flooding pushes contaminated water into heavily populated regions, says Dr. Vijaya Somaraju, medical director of infectious disease at Beloit Health System. Both typhoid and cholera can cause diarrheal illness and death by severe dehydration if left untreated.

The bacteria specific to typhoid fever is salmonella typhi. Several other strains of salmonella cause food poisoning (salmonellosis) each year in the U.S. Cholera, a feco-oral infection, is caused by vibrio cholera, a toxin-producing bacteria. A tiny amount can cause severe illness.

“Patients must be constantly rehydrated until the diarrhea runs its course,” Somaraju says. “It is extremely contagious through one-on-one contact with

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body fluids.”

Somaraju suggests that people visiting under-developed foreign countries drink only bottled water or local water that’s been boiled for 20 full minutes, and avoid undercooked foods.

“If you’re traveling to an underdeveloped country, start planning a few months in advance by scheduling vaccinations for cholera and typhoid at least 6 to 8 weeks prior to travel,” she says.

“This will give you enough time to develop protective immunity that can last for six months to one year.”

Travelers to Africa should be mindful of ebola. As recently as July 2019, an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo caused an international health warning.

Another travel tip: “Book a hotel room on the third floor or higher,” she says. “It sounds weird, but mosquitoes don’t usually fly that high up.” ❚

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Y O

Fun February Events at Indoor City Market

By Peggy Werner

T

he community is invited to share in all kinds of fun this month at Rockford Indoor City Market, 116 N. Madison St. Love Is in The Air is a winter market for Valentine’s Day from 4 to 8 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 7. About 16 Local vendors will offer handmade and vintage goods such as jewelry, treats, candles, honey, dog treats, tote bags, ear warmers, stuffed toys, and SPoRT Makeup, the latter created in honor of the Rockford Peaches.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day by testing your knowledge of romantic comedies you’ve watched over the years. Romantic Comedy Trivia Night is at 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 12. Remember your favorite moments from “When Harry Met Sally,” “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” “10 Things I Hate About You” and more. Cost to play is free and prizes will be awarded.

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Themed cocktails and wine will be served at the bar, which will open at 5:30 p.m.

The food hall will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Stacy Morrissey offers Yoga at the Market from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. a couple Saturdays each month, the next one being Feb. 15. Cost is $12 and mats are provided. Breakfast and coffee are available for purchase in the food hall.

Music at the Market: An evening with Josh Cohen is 5 to 8 p.m. Friday,

Feb. 5

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Feb. 21. Food and drink will be sold. The bar opens at 5 p.m. and the food hall will be open until 9 p.m. Cohen is a multiaward winning six string electric bassist, composer, and music educator from Madison.

Whiskey and Wine is the first annual indoor fundraiser for Rock River Development Partnership, the nonprofit owner of Rockford City Market. It will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22.

Sample whiskey and wine from around the world, provided by Artale Wine Co. Enjoy wine tastings, light appetizers, music by Cole Brandt and a commemorative logo glass.

Brandt is a popular local musician and producer who plays a variety of musical styles, including classical, jazz and electronic selections. Cost is $50 and tickets can be purchased at rockfordcitymarket.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.

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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

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

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Winter Fun Attractions & Events

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.

'37 Postcards' Thru-Feb. 8, Thu.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sat.-Sun, 3 p.m. In this poignant comedy, Avery Sutton Rockford, IL 61101 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com is happy to return to his home in Connecticut after years of traveling abroad; but almost nothing is as he remembers it. Beloit Civic Theatre, Elizabeth Reinholz Theatre, Beloit Memorial High School, 1225 4th St., Beloit, (608) 362-1595, beloitcivictheatre.org.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

Korn & Breaking Benjamin Feb. 6, 7 p.m. Grammy award-winning Korn and hard rockers Breaking Benjamin perform; with guest Bones UK. BMO Harris Bank Center, Rockford, (815) 968-5222, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com.

'Sex Please, We’re Sixty!'

Feb. 7-9 & 14-16, Fri.-Sat. 7 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. Things are turned on their head at Mrs. Stancliffe’s Rose Cottage B & B when a retired chemist’s libido-boosting pills for older women are mixed up with Viagra pills belonging to “Bud the Stud” Davis. Main Street Players, 111 W. 1st St., Belvidere, (800) 741-2963, mainstreetplayersofboonecounty.com.

'Bedroom Farce' Feb. 7-16, Fri.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. The comedy takes place in the bedrooms of three married couples over the course of one long night. Janesville Little Theatre, 906 W. Racine St., Janesville, Wis., (608) 756-4172‎, janesvilletheatre.org.

RAM: Sonic Disruptions: Buisch & Hogin Feb. 7-May 25, daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thu. to 7 p.m. Chair of Painting and Sculpture at the U of I, Laurie Hogin creates beautiful yet bizarre landscapes. Derrick Buisch, a professor at the U of WI, Madison, creates evocative imagery with moments of uneasy hilarity. Rockford Art Museum (RAM), 711 N. Main St., (815) 9682787, rockfordartmuseum.org.

Explore Hearts Feb. 8, 1-2:30 p.m. Investigate the hearts of various members of the animal kingdom. How are the hearts of amphibians and reptiles different from mammals? Dissect a pig heart with students from U of I medical school. Ages 6 and up. Reg. online. Burpee Museum of Natural History, (815) 965-3433, burpee.org.

Short-eared Owls: Ghosts in the Grass Feb. 9, 2 p.m. Jacques Nuzzo, of the Illinois

"Firebird with Poison Fruits and Scavenging Companion Species" by Laurie Hogin is part of Sonic

Disruptions: Buisch & Hogin, opening Feb. 7 at Rockford Art Museum.

Raptor Center, shares the results of a 2-year study of these owls, once among the most numerous species before European settlement but now endangered. Jarrett Prairie Center, 7993 N. River Road, Byron, Ill., (815) 234-8535, byronforestpreserve.com.

History of the Mafia in Rockford Feb. 11, 6:30-7:45 p.m. Jean Lythgoe, local historian, talks about the mafia in Rockford from the early 20th century and Prohibition to the little-known stories of retirement in Rockford.

Local History Room, Hart Interim Library, (815) 965-7606, rockfordpubliclibrary.org.

Beatles & Sing-along Night Feb. 13, 7-8:30 p.m. Tribute Trio, a tight-harmony family band, performs timeless songs.

Katie’s Cup, Rockford. Ticket info: charlotteswebofrockford.org.

'Love, Sex and the IRS' Feb. 14-Mar. 1, Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 2 & 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. To save money, two out of work musicians rooming together in New York City file taxes as though they are married. When the IRS announces an audit, the situation becomes a cross between “I Love Lucy” and “Some Like it Hot.” Pec Playhouse Theatre, 314 Main St., Pecatonica, Ill, (815) 239-1210, pecplayhouse.org.

Galena Winter Carnival Feb. 14-17, see website. Watch the hot air balloon glow and ice carving, play snow games, sled, cross-country ski and more. Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa, 444 Eagle Ridge Dr., Galena, Ill., (800) 892-2269, eagleridge.com. ❚

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Feb. 5

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WDL

Gene’s Irish Pub – Small Setting, Big Flavors

By Lindsey Gapen Lukas, managing editor

G

ene Hayenga and Amanda Head opened Gene’s Irish Pub at 1025 Fifth Ave., in Rockford’s Midtown District, in September, after closing their previous restaurant, Gene’s Place. They wanted a smaller place in all respects.

“Fewer seats, fewer staff, fewer hours, a smaller menu. I feel like everyone likes an Irish pub,” Hayenga says.

“It’s about good food and good service in a friendly, relaxing atmosphere.”

“The clientele we’ve had in Midtown has been wonderful,” says Head. “We get people who appreciate the craft beer and finer Irish whiskeys that we have.”

Craft beers are sourced from Blind Pig Brewery, Two Brothers Brewing Co., Stone Brewing Company, Wisconsin Brewing Co. and Lexington Brewing Co., among others. And true to any Irish pub, there are multiple options.

Irish whiskies like Red Breast 12yr, Jameson, Powers Signature, Tullamore

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Baci’s Kitchen  Fast-Casual, dine-in, carry-out. 2990 N. Perryville Road, inside A Perryville Place. (815) 329-6922. Open 7 days/wk. at 8 a.m. BkLD. Complete menu at Baciskitchen.com.

Backyard Grill & Bar  Casual/American. 5390 Elevator Road, Roscoe, Ill., (815) 623-6677. 2nd St., Loves Park, Ill., (815) 6369430. LD M-Th 11am-midnight, F-Sat to 2am, Sun noon-10 p.m. $-SS. Bravo Pizza  Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, S. Beloit, Ill., (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $.

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

Daily specials. 6500 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, Ill. (815) 654-9900. LD M-F 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 5-10 p.m. $$ Cucina di Rosa  Italian Bistro/Bakery 1620 Bell School Road, (815) 395-5040. BkLD. M-Sat 7am-9pm. $$ Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant  Casual/Mexican. 5855 E. State St., (815) 227-4979. LD $-$$.

Fresco at the Gardens.  Casual/American Café. 318 Spring Creek Road, (815) 316-2256. BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$ Gene’s Irish Pub  Casual/Irish Pub. American and Irish fare.

Over 21 only. 1025 5th Ave., Rockford, (815) 977-4365. LD T-Th 11am-10:30pm, F-Sat to midnight. $$.

Giordano’s  Casual/Italian. Stuffed pizza, salads, entrees, sandwiches, desserts. 33 Executive Parkway, Rockford, (815) 398-5700. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11 pm.

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Dew and many more join several non-Irish whiskeys on a lengthy list.

Vodka, rum, gin, tequila, brandy, scotch, schnapps and wine are also available.

Favorite dishes from Gene’s Place are on the menu, including the Pork Chop Sandwich, Famous ½- lb. Cheeseburger, Grilled Salmon, Gourmet Mac & Cheese and Gene’s Famous Fish & Chips on Fridays and Prime Rib on Saturdays.

New items include Chicken O’Sullivan, with two seasoned boneless chicken breasts char-grilled and topped with an Irish Whiskey cream sauce, served with homemade mashed potatoes and vegetable of the day and Lassie Mandy’s Shepherd’s Pie, with a hearty mixture of ground beef, carrots and peas layered in homemade mashed potatoes.

Real Irish banger sausages are steeped in Irish stout beer and chargrilled for the Bangers & Mash, a classic Irish dish. Rueben Egg Rolls “fly off the

menu” with house-made corned beef rolled up with Swiss cheese and sauerkraut.

“There’s also an Irish twist on some of our older dishes,” Hayenga adds.

“A lot of our meals have Irish whiskey infused into the sauces, like the Ribeye, which comes with a peppercorn and Irish whiskey sauce.”

It’s Irish through and through, as the owners distinctly envisioned.

Hours: Tues.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. to midnight; closed Sunday and Monday. ❚

In the Spotlight Hearthrock Cafe  Restaurant/cafe. Baked goods, coffee, breakfast, lunch. Inside Benson Stone Co., 1100 11th St., (815) 227-2000. BkL M-F 7:30am-3pm; Sat. 8am-3pm. $-$$.

Lino’s  Italian/American. 5611 E. State St., Rkfd. (815) 397-2077. D M-Sat 4:30am-10pm; Sun. 4:30am-9 pm. $$.

Maciano’s  Casual Italian. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, (815) 633-7500; & 5801 Columbia Pkwy., Rkfd., (815) 227-5577. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $-$$.

Mary’s Market Cafe & Bakery  Baked goods, sandwiches, salads. 2636 McFarland Road, Rockford, (815) 986-3300; 1659 N. Alpine Road, Rockford, (815) 394-0765; 4431 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 397-7291. BkLD Hours vary by location. $.

Olympic Tavern  Upscale-Casual/American. 2327 N. Main St., (815) 962-8758. Extensive beer list. LD M-Th 11 a.m.-midnight; Fri-Sat. to 2 a.m. $-$$.

Prairie Street Brewhouse  Upscale-Casual/American.

200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$.

Salamone’s North  Italian-American. 2583 N. Mulford Road, Rkfd. LD. Sun. noon-10 p.m.; Mon.-Th 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat. noon-11 p.m. (815) 639-1200 Stockholm Inn  Casual/American, Scandinavian emphasis.

2420 Charles St., Rockford, (815) 397-3534. BkLD M-Sat., Sun. brkfst. only. M-Th 7a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri. & Sat. 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

Sun. 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Weekend brunch. Large menu, Swedish pancakes specialty. $$ ❚

Feb. 5

To advertise call 815-316-2300

D

Dos Reales

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

Its recently updated menu features a burrito cheesesteak and chimichangas, along with newer items such as torta Mexicana, a Mexican style of sandwich filled with grilled chicken or steak; sopes Mexicanos, a traditional Mexican dish served with rice and beans; and molletes, a traditional Mexican meal with toasted bread covered in refried beans and grilled steak. Dos Reales offers glutenfree options, and dishes are mild unless a guest requests spicy.

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

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

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To advertise call 815-316-2300

Y O

It’s Time to Discover Winter Outdoor Fun!

By Peggy Werner

Y

ou know who owns our public forest preserves and parks? We the people do! So let’s get out and enjoy them, no matter what season it is.

Winter is a great time for outdoor discovery, says Jamie Johannsen, Forest Preserves of Winnebago County marketing and community relations manager. The forest preserves, Severson Dells and Rocktown Adventures have teamed up to encourage outdoor fun.

“Winter offers some of the best opportunities for wildlife observation,” says Johannsen.

Upcoming events include a Honeysuckle Hiking Stick workshop from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22 at Severson Dells. Honeysuckle grows uncontrollably in the forest, but the invasive plant takes on a new and useful life when transformed into walking sticks. Nature Educator Ellen Rathbone will provide

tools and training. The cost is $15 for non-members and registration is required

by Feb. 17 by calling (815) 335-2915 or going to seversondells.com.

Severson Dells Naturalist/Educator Andrea Wallace Noble says many animals are especially active during mild winters, like the one we’ve had so far.

“Every species has a different way of handling winter, but most stay active unless they have to protect themselves from the harshest weather conditions,” she

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says. “I appreciate this time of year because you can see so much. Dress right and you can enjoy nature at any time.”

Kevin Versino, general manager of Rocktown Adventures, 313 N. Madison St., organizes guided snowshoe hikes throughout the winter that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.

“If you can put one foot in front of the other, you can snowshoe and you don’t even need a lot of snow. Snowshoeing is the fastest growing winter sport,” he says.

Check out the event schedule at rocktownadventures.com.

Johannsen says walk-in use is welcomed at all forest preserve locations.

Some hard paths are kept cleared of snow.

Visit winnebagoforest.org to see a list of areas accessible by vehicles and hard paths for pedestrian use during the winter. ❚

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To advertise call 815-316-2300

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