Smart Living Weekly August 28, 2019

Sm mart a r t L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit 95¢ • Aug. 28, 2019

™

Right in Our Region

Greek Fest! A Time for Food, Fun, Fellowship See Page 16

‘Kitten Lady’ Comes To Rockford Art in the Park in Freeport Sept. 1 Does Your Car Need Some TLC? Double the Life of Your Driveway Volunteer for Food Pack-a-Thon

FREE WIN!

2 Tickets to Sapora Playworld See Pg. 28 Details

Best of Life Information for Our Region’s Residents & Visitors Proudly Serving the Needs of 326,000 Neighbors - For Your Home, Health & Fun!

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 16 Greek Fest! Food, Fun, Fellowship & Tradition Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Double the Life of Your Driveway Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Remembering the Matriarchs Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Tasty Back-to-School Supper Your Community .........................................19, 20 Meet ‘Kitten Lady’; Food Bank Pack-a-Thon Your Outing ............................................. .......... 21 Freeport’s Art in the Park Your Health ............................................. .......... 23 Choosing an Orthodontist Your Technology .................................... .......... 24 Eliminate Your Electric Bill?

Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 Taco Betty Your Auto ........................................ .................. 29 Does Your Vehicle Need Some TLC?

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen Assistant Managing Editor Jermaine Pigee Editor Emeritus Janine Pumilia 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 2019 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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Middle-Aged Knights

I

’m fortunate to share a bond with my closest friend from grade school, whom I met when we were 7. When I told her that my old family home was about to sell, she came over to bid it farewell. She’d recently cleaned out her parents’ home, too, so we commiserated on the emotional and practical challenges.

Afterward, we caught up on each others’ lives over dinner. She showed me gorgeous photos from Crater Lake National Park in Oregon. I told her about a recent trip to Smoky Mountain National Park and Fort Sumter National Historic Site. The latter is being swallowed by a rising ocean. We fretted about the future of our parks and endangered species.

As kids, we watched adults work hard to get environmental protections signed into bipartisan law for our benefit. We felt proud of the USA for its foresight. Later, we reaped the reward of our parents’ efforts when we took our own children to see bald eagles, manatees and grizzly bears no longer on the brink of extinction.

We marveled together at the changing world and agreed we grew up during better times. Then we laughed at how “old-lady” we sound. Our grandmothers pined for “good old days,” too, but those days included two world wars, the Great Depression and horrific oppression of women and minorities.

With retirement looming down the road, we ask each other what comes next for two Loves Park grade-schoolers-turned-grandmothers. A well-deserved rest? A plunge into activism? Both? Neither? We’ll soon attend our 40-year Harlem High School reunion and learn how our peers are answering that question.

With middle age comes many losses. But there’s a flip side. We view the world with far more context now. The frantic pressures of proving ourselves are dropping away. We’re like battle-worn knights shedding armor, heavy piece by heavy piece, having fulfilled so many obligations to others, gladly and without regret, but not without exhaustion. We’re clearer now on what matters to us.

As we climbed into our cars to head home, we agreed: Middle age isn’t so bad. Let’s make it count! ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor

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Aug. 28 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Y H  G

Why Pavement Maintenance Pays Off

By Peggy Werner

L

arry Lazzerini opened Premier Pavement Solutions, 5059 Contractors Drive, in Loves Park, 13 years ago. The full-service asphalt company specializes in sealcoating, infrared repairs, striping and other markings, asphalt maintenance, crack filling, pothole repair and repair of collapsed drains. The company also does snowplowing/salting, during the winter, for the City of Rockford and other customers.

When it comes to sealcoating, ingredients matter, says Lazzerini. A specially formulated Seal Master Brand sealcoat is made exclusively for his company by a manufacturer in Streamwood, Ill., and comes with a letter of authenticity. Latex and sand are added to the product to make it more flexible and durable.

Sealcoating improves the appearance of a driveway and protects it from

the damaging effects of sun, water, salt and chemical spills like oil and gasoline from cars. The non-porous coating makes cleaning easier and provides a smooth surface for rain to wash away dirt and debris.

Regular maintenance can double the life of a new driveway, Lazzerini says, and sealcoating should be done between May and November.

What sets him apart from the competition is customer service, or the “Premier Difference,” says Lazzerini. He personally visits each home or other work site before and after a job is completed.

Repeat customers have priority on the schedule and get discounted pricing.

Being proactive about caring for your pavement can save you money in the long run, says Lazzerini. Watch for discoloration, the top of the driveway pull-

ing away from the garage, deep cracks and holes where water can seep in, loose rock and broken edges.

And beware of scam artists who offer this line of work. What sounds like a great deal may be just the opposite, if you’re not careful.

“You don’t know where they’re from, if they will be around, what’s in their product and how watered down it is,” he says. ❚

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I  W

Remembering The Matriarchs

Primary scriptures: Genesis chapters 11 to 35.

B

ehind every great patriarch is a matriarch (or two).

Such was the case for Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (Israel), who loved their wives – Sarah, Rebekah and Rachel – very much.

These six flawed people faced numerous hardships, some self-inflicted, but found grace in the eyes of God. Among the women, Rebekah and Rachel were prone to dishonesty, which came back to haunt them. But all three strong women played important roles in God’s plan.

Each of these women struggled with infertility, but all gave birth to one or more heirs, after long waiting, Sarah at age 90.

We recall that Jacob worked seven long years to earn the right to marry his pretty cousin Rachel (Rebekah’s niece), but was duped into marrying “weak-eyed” elder sister Leah, instead. A week later, Jacob took Rachel as his second wife.

Leah was sad because she knew her husband didn’t want her. She took her sorrow to God, who blessed her with six healthy sons and a daughter. From her son Judah’s line, Jesus would descend.

Rachel enjoyed the deep love of her husband, but watched with jealousy as Leah bore him the children she couldn’t produce. Rachel and Leah both sent their maids to mate with Jacob, and they gave him four more sons.

Rachel told God she would rather die than fail to present Jacob with children.

Eventually God “opened her womb” and she gave birth to Joseph, who became Jacob’s favorite son and the leader of Israel (of “many-colored coat” fame.)

When Jacob packed up his family to return to his father’s home in Canaan, Rachel secretly stole her father Laben’s valuable idols (statues made of precious materials). Not knowing it was she who had stolen them, Jacob pronounced a curse on the idol-worshipping thief.

Later, his beloved Rachel died in childbirth, when her second son, Benjamin, (Jacob’s 12th son) entered the world.

From Jacob’s 12 sons descended the 12 tribes of Israel and Jesus Christ. ❚ – Janine Pumilia

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Y K

A Back-to-School Dinner

B

ack-to-school season can be hectic.

Creating a master plan for simple and nutritious meals is an easy way to take control of your family’s hectic schedule. Start by stocking the pantry with staples that amp up the nutrition and flavor, such as American pecans.

Baked Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders Cook time: 35 minutes 2 cups raw pecan halves or pieces 1 cup panko or gluten-free bread crumbs 1 tsp. garlic powder 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper 1 tsp. salt, plus additional, to taste 1 1/2-2 lbs. chicken breast tenders or chicken strips 3 large eggs 1 cup all-purpose flour pepper, to taste Buttermilk Ranch Dip: 1/4 cup buttermilk 1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/2 1 1 1 1 1/2

cup sour cream tsp. parsley tsp. onion powder tsp. garlic powder tsp. dried dill tsp. salt

Heat oven to 425 F. In food processor, pulse pecans until fine as breadcrumbs. In shallow bowl, mix pecans with panko, garlic powder, cayenne pepper and 1 teaspoon salt.

In separate shallow bowl, whisk eggs until smooth. In third shallow bowl, add flour.

Lightly season chicken tenders with salt and pepper, to taste. Working with one chicken tender at a time, dip in eggs, flour then pecan mixture. Press pecan mixture into chicken to be sure it is completely coated. Set chicken on baking sheet lined with cooling rack or parchment paper. Repeat with remaining chicken.

Place chicken on center rack and

bake 20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

To make Buttermilk Ranch Dip: In small bowl, whisk buttermilk, mayonnaise, sour cream, parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, dried dill and salt until smooth.

Serve chicken tenders warm paired with Buttermilk Ranch Dip. ❚ (Source: Family Features)

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Sept. 7 & 8: Welcome to Greek Fest!

By Janine Pumilia

I

t’s that time of year when the people of Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 108 N. 5th St., Rockford, roll out the welcome mat and offer delicious food, music, dance and other fun as they celebrate all things Greek.

There’s a lot to celebrate! Ancient Greece is the birthplace of western civilization, after all.

One of many great aspects of Greek culture is its welcoming attitude, says Anne Panos, lifetime member of the church and a longtime Greek Fest organizer.

“Hospitality is an important part of Greek culture,” says Panos. “We like to share our cuisine and socialize. We think our downtown Rockford location is perfect for that. It’s always a fun time for us to welcome guests and also to re-connect with each other and our own ancestry. It’s

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also a good time for our younger generations to learn about our traditions.”

This year’s Greek Fest is Saturday and Sunday Sept. 7 & 8. Admission is free.

Another wonderful Greek tradition is distinctive and tasty cuisine. Among the many offerings: • Gyros, a blend of seasoned beef and lamb, onions, tomato and tzatziki sauce (yogurt, cucumber and garlic) cradled in a warm pita bread.

• Pastitsio, a layered, baked macaroni and ground beef dish topped with béchamel sauce.

• The Souvlaki Platter, tender grilled pork kabobs nestled in rice pilaf.

• Athenian Chicken, a split breast with olive oil, lemon, and savory spices served with rice pilaf, Greek salad and warm pita bread.

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• Loukaniko, a seasoned Greek sausage served with tzatziki sauce in warm pita bread.

• Greek Salad, with cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, Kalamata olives and feta cheese.

• The Combination Platter, comprised of one Athenian chicken breast plus your choice of souvlaki or loukaniko sausage served with rice pilaf, Greek salad and warm pita bread.

• Saganaki, which is kefalotyri cheese seared on the grill, then flamed with brandy and topped with fresh lemon.

At the Greek Fest bakery, you’ll find loukoumades, a fried dough drenched in honey and topped with powdered sugar, cinnamon and/or walnuts, and baklava sundaes.

“It’s very relaxing to come get a

R  O R

table at the taverna, order some Greek wine or beer or coffee, maybe an appetizer like saganaki, and then linger over a wonderful meal as you socialize, watch the dancers, and maybe finish up with a Greek pastry,” says Campos. “Our event is a little smaller than some, which makes it easier to provide a more intimate atmosphere.”

Greek music, both traditional and modern, will fill the air throughout the weekend. A troupe of traditional dancers will perform at 2 and 6 p.m. each day. A

returning favorite band, Men of Our Times, will perform a blend of classic hits on Saturday night starting at 8 p.m.

Raffle tickets will be sold both days and an “agora,” or marketplace, will sell Greekrelated items like clothing, jewelry, CDs, cookbooks, incense and incense holders, icons, blankets, handbags, dolls, kitchen items and more.

In Ancient Greece, the agora was the center of civic life, where people gathered to discuss politics, philosophy and spirituality.

Christian faith is a cornerstone of the Greek culture. Guided tours of the church, with its stunning Byzantine iconography, will be given throughout the weekend. The congregation recently celebrated its 100th anniversary and welcomes inquiries from people who are curious about the Orthodox Church.

“People of many ethnic backgrounds

attend our church, including Lebanese, Syrian, Russian, Ethiopian and Serbian Christians,” Panos says. “Our church is really what I’d call Pan-Orthodox, not just Greek Orthodox.”

The Orthodox Church dates back to the apostles and owes its existence in the U.S. to immigrants from Greece, Russia, the Middle East and the Balkans. Like so many others, in the 19th and 20th centuries, Orthodox Christians came here in search of freedom and opportunity.

The Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church is led by interim Pastor Andrew Zbeeb. The congregation works with organizations including Rockford Rescue Mission, Rock River Valley Food Pantry, the Alzheimer’s Association and the Remedies domestic violence shelter to serve the local community year-round, says Panos.

Festival hours are noon to 11 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 8 p.m. on Sunday.

Admission is free. Learn more at RockfordGreekFest.com. ❚

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Y C

‘Kitten Lady’ Comes to Rockford Sept. 7

By Janine Pumilia

A

ll babies are fragile and felines are no exception. Since most shelters aren’t equipped to do the labor-intensive work of saving very young kittens, hundreds of thousands are euthanized each year across the U.S. “It isn’t the shelter’s fault,” says “Kitten Lady” Hannah Shaw. “Saving kittens is a community effort … that’s why fostering for your local shelter is the best way to make an impact.”

Shaw has made it her life’s work to find innovative ways to protect animals.

She’s the author of “Tiny But Mighty,” a New York Times best-seller that makes a case for saving kittens and explains exactly how to do it.

Rockford’s Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary, a no-kill shelter, will host Shaw from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 7, at Regent’s Hall, Rockford University, 5050 E. State St. Admission

is $30 and includes two sessions. The first is “Saving Kittens’ Lives” and the second is “Community Cats 101.”

Well-meaning people deliver what they believe to be orphaned kittens to Noah’s Ark several times each week, during kitten season, which is mid-spring to mid-fall.

“But sometimes they’re not really orphans,” says Brooke Pond, media specialist at Noah’s Ark. “The mother may be out hunting or may be in the process of moving kittens, one at a time, to a new location. One trick is to sprinkle flour

around the kittens and check back in four hours or so. If the mother is coming and going, you’ll see her paw prints.”

Young kittens are always better off with their mothers, but if mom is missing, the Noah’s Ark staff does what it can to save them, even taking them home at night to keep up with bottle feedings.

While many locals have signed up at Noah’s Ark and other shelters to be kitten foster parents, more are always needed.

As for feral mother cats, Noah’s Ark runs a Track-Neuter-Release program in which strays are neutered and released back to where they came from.

Shaw shares adorable images and educational videos about kitten care through social media and YouTube.

Buy tickets for this event online at noahsarkanimals.org; in person at Noah’s Ark, 111 N. First St.; or by calling (815) 962-2767. ❚

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Y C

Volunteers Needed for Food Pack-A-Thon Sept. 27 B

ecause there’s a strong need in the Winneabgo County region, the Northern Illinois Food Bank (NIFB) recently increased the percentage of its food resources dedicated to our region.

This means more local volunteers are needed to pack and distribute the food.

An excellent opportunity to volunteer is coming up Sept. 27 during the first-ever Hunger Action Pack-A-Thon.

This festive, 12-hour event will include friendly competitions between volunteer teams to label and pack the most canned food for hungry neighbors. The event will include raffles and other suprises.

Volunteer shifts for this event are from 7-9 a.m.; 9:30-11:30 a.m.; 12:302:30 p.m. and 3-5 p.m.

The event will take place at the food bank’s Northwest Center in Rockford, 765 Research Parkway, near the Comcast building by the airport.

Volunteers are needed on a continual basis at the food bank.

“Whether you can volunteer once

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a week, once a month or once a year – individually or with a group of friends, family or colleagues – whatever your commitment, every hour of assistance helps us to ensure our hungry neighbors will have access to food in their time of need,” says Julie Yurko, president.

The food bank serves 13 northern Illinois counties, with centers in Geneva, Park City, Joliet and Rockford.

Volunteers are needed to sort and package food; to stock shelves and work with clients on distribution days; and to contribute unique skills for specific tasks.

According to a recent Hunger in America survey, Northern Illinois Food Bank serves more than 71,000 people each week. Clients use the pantries and feeding programs eight times per year, on average.

Children under age 18 make up 36 percent of clients, while seniors age 60 and older make up 9 percent.

The survey reveals that about 77 percent of clients have had to choose

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A food bank volunteer stocks shelves.

between paying for food or utilities, and 62 percent have had to choose between food or medicine/medical care.

Since 1983, NIFB has been working with food manufacturers, grocers, corporations, foundations and individuals who donate food and funds. It distributes food through 800 pantries and programs.

Register online at solvehungertoday. org or call the volunteer team at (630) 443-6910 to learn more. ❚

Y O

12th Art in the Park in Freeport on Sept. 1 K

rape Park in Freeport will provide a beautiful backdrop for the 12th annual Art in the Park festival on Sunday, Sept. 1.

From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., visitors can stroll the shaded paths that wind through the park to enjoy nearly 40 booths featuring a variety of fine art for sale, including paintings, photography, ceramics, jewelry, mixed media and more.

Performances by local and regional performers, free art activities for families and delicious foods will add to a full day of fun for the community.

“We’re honored to be a part of hosting this festival each year,” says Jessica Modica, Freeport Art Museum executive director. “It’s a great way for us to support artists and to help provide an enjoyable cultural event for the entire community. Art in the Park typically draws a crowd of well over 4,000 people during the single-day event.”

Live music will be performed by That Gurl, from 10-11 a.m.; Mr. Ed from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; Grass Attack from 1-2 p.m.; Kris Valkema from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.; and Port Stephenson from 4-5 p.m.

Occurring over Labor Day weekend, the festival encourages tourism to the area and highlights one of Freeport’s best attributes: Krape Park. The park features a picturesque 44-foot waterfall that tumbles down from a high limestone bluff, a one-of-a-kind carousel that costs just 50 cents to ride, canoes and paddle boat rental, and a miniature golf course.

Ron Schneider, superintendent of recreation for Freeport Park District, says “Krape Park is the perfect community gathering space for Art in the Park because of its natural beauty and fun recreation activities.”

Many of the participating artists are returning from previous years because

they were impressed with the sales they generated at this event.

“Art in the Park is my best show of the year, financially,” says painter Mia Rudolph. “I’m very pleased with how many people from the community come out to support local artists.”

The event is sponsored by State Bank, FHN and MetLife. Learn more at ArtInTheParkFreeport.com. ❚

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Y H

Finding the Right Orthodontist for You B y To n i R o c h a

W

hether it’s a personal choice or a referral, finding the right fit in an orthodontic specialist is vital.

Dr. Yaroslav Yarmolyuk, DDS MS, and owner of Orthodontic Experts in Rockford, says the most important aim is to find an actual “specialist.”

“Illinois is one of only three states requiring advanced training to be licensed in both general dentistry and orthodontics,” he explains. “The Illinois Department of Finance and Professional Regulations mandates this.”

Yarmolyuk says that many dentists also do orthodontic work in other states.

It’s essential that patients look for a professional who has received the advanced education.

“I did a three-year specialist residency in orthodontics,” he says. “I also did extracurricular work on weekends while in training and have the experience

to provide the best possible care. Technology has gotten easier, but still most general dentists fall short of what a specialist can offer.”

Orthodontic Experts also provides patients with flexible payment plans for its services, which are covered under most major health insurance policies, including ObamaCare.

“We can arrange payments in our clinic at 5051 E. State St., Rockford, or any one of our other clinics in the Chicago area,” Yarmolyuk says. “This is important because realignment and other treatments can range from $2,000 to $6,000, depending on the length of time needed to complete the process.”

He explains that minor treatments can take as little as six months while complex ones may take up to 2.5 years.

“The other advantage we offer is our call center, which is available seven days a week. Our emergency call service is accessible 24 hours every day,” Yarmolyuk says. “With nine orthodontic specialists and 90 support employees, we have the ability to help anyone at any time.”

For more information, call (815) 918-4427 or visit orthodonticexpertscom. ❚

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Y T

Can You Live Without an Electric Bill?

By Peggy Werner

T

he time is right for people who want to switch to solar power, especially if they don’t want to shoulder the entire cost of transitioning to cleaner energy.

EZ Satellite and Wireless owner and General Manager Charles Zambrano has partnered with Aeos Energy in Franklin Park, Ill., to form another branch of his business called EZ Solar Energy. It aims to provide savings to homeowners through no down payment, fixed-rate financing, discounts and rebates to homeowners.

“Our goal is to get everyone as close as possible to getting their energy 100 percent from the sun, so they don’t have to have an electric bill,” Zambrano says.

EZ Solar will help people every step of the way with permits, applications and obtaining a loan, for those who qualify.

The product is maintenance-free, has a 25-year warranty and takes only one day

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to install. Paperwork takes several weeks to process.

Everyone can reduce or eliminate their electric bill with solar power, he says. A lot of factors figure into the equation such as the direction the home faces, the roof style, square footage and how power is used. If a home can only handle so many panels, there will still be a savings. Those who qualify can immediately reduce their electric bill and, at best, eventually have no bill, he says.

Federal Investment Tax Credits (ITC) allow homeowners to deduct 30 percent of the cost of installing a solar energy system. The deadlines for the tax incentives have been extended many times and currently expire in 2022. State laws require utilities to produce a specific

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percentage of electricity from renewable sources. Right now, for a limited time, the state is offering a rebate for homeowners who have installed solar panels, rewarding them for helping the state meet its goals of producing 25 percent of its electricity through renewable sources by 2025.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Zambrano at EZ Solar at (815) 200-9075. ❚

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

Real. Original.

SM

Anderson Japanese Gardens, the finest in North America. Visit beautifully spacious Rock Cut State Park. Don’t miss Klehm Arboretum & Botanic

Summer Fun

ILLINOIS, USA

Garden, with more than 500 different species of trees, shrubs and vines, all glowing in autumn’s glory. Indoors, our concert and theater season will be gaining momentum at Coronado Performing Arts Center, a beautifully restored downtown vaudeville house. Plus, our Riverfront Museum Campus will be coming alive for the whole family. Visit gorockford.com today for a full list of autumn special events, festivals, gardens, golf and more.

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau NWQ_fall.indd 1

102 N. Main St.

Attractions & Events

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

'The Chicken Ranch' Through Aug. 29, 1 p.m. Comical musical about a brothel with a colorful history. Mt. Morris, (815) 946-3817, whitepinesinn.com.

Rockford, IL 61101

1.800.521.0849

gorockford.com

Music on the Veranda Through Labor Day, Sat.-Sun. 8-11 p.m. Enjoy music, dinner and a gorgeous sunset. Starved Rock Lodge, Starved Rock State Park, Routes 178 & 71, Utica, Ill., (800) 868-7625, starvedrocklodge.com.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

'Steel Magnolias' Through Sept. 1. See website for times. Six women of Chinquapin, La., show more steel than delicacy as they face life’s ups and downs together. Timber Lake Playhouse, Mt. Carroll, Ill., (815) 244-2035, timberlakeplayhouse.org.

Art in the Park - Freeport Sept. 1, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Stroll Krape Park and purchase art from regional vendors. Live music all day, plus a variety of food booths. Learn more at ArtintheParkFreeport.com.

Music on the Mall Through Sept. 13, most Fridays 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Edgebrook, 1639 N. Alpine Road, Rockford, (815) 226-0212, edgebrookshops.com.

Dockside Live Through Sept. 23, Mon. 6-9 p.m. Live music, food & brews. Prairie Street Brewing Co., 200 Prairie St., (815) 277-9427, psbrewingco.com.

Bodacious Music Through Sept. 27, Fri. 6 p.m. Relax on the patio to live music with views of the Rock River. 119 N. Main St., Janesville, bodaciousshops.com.

Julie Heffernan & Shelly Mosman - RAM Through Sept. 29, daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The “Chance Encounters” exhibit uses paintings and photography to tell visual stories that disrupt one-sided stories of female figures.

Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main St., (815) 968-2787, rockfordartmuseum.org.

Barb City Stompers Aug. 31, 7 p.m. The group entertains in a jazzy style, a combination of hot-swing-traditional with a dash of New Orleans sass. Spring Creek United Church of Christ, Rockford, (815) 8772576, springcreekucc.org.

Enjoy Freeport's Art in the Park on Sept. 1.

'Urinetown (the Musical)' Through Aug. 31, Thu.-Sat. 7:30 p.m. The downtrodden rise up against the corporation controlling a drought-stricken town. [usual] Suspects, Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St., Rockford. Info: rockfordpubliclibrary.org.

Kenny & Dolly in Harmony Sept. 3-5, 1 p.m. Dave Karl & Wendy T re-create songs of the “Real Love” tour. Mt. Morris, Ill., (815) 946-3817, whitepinesinn.com.

'August: Osage County' Sept. 5-15, Thu.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. The Weston family is full of interesting characters.

Stage Coach Players, DeKalb, Ill., (815) 7581940, stagecoachers.com.

Greek Fest Sept 7 & 8. Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 108 N. 5th St., Rockford.

Read cover story on p. 16.

The High Kings Sept. 7, 7:30 p.m. An encore performance by the quartet that celebrates Ireland’s folk heritage. Egyptian Theatre, 135 N. 2nd St., DeKalb, Ill., (815) 758-1215, egyptiantheatre.org.

The Club Mario Show Sept. 11, 1 p.m. The one-man show by Mario Rosales features the biggest hits of the ’40s through the ’90s. White Pines, Mt. Morris, Ill., (815) 946-3817, whitepinesinn.com.

'Newsies' Sept. 12-22, see website for times. Set in turn-of-the-century New York City, the musical story of Jack Kelly, the leader of a band of newsboys. Timber Lake Playhouse, Mt. Carroll, (815) 244-2035, timberlakeplayhouse.org. ❚

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WDL

Taco Betty’s Offers Tasty, Trendy Fare

By Jermaine Pigee

L

ocated at 212 E. State St., this trendy, casual downtown Rockford restaurant takes its name from the nickname that investor Brent Hughes uses for his wife, Betsy Branca. Hughes and coinvestor John Bross came up with the concept for Taco Betty’s in 2014. Chef Paul Sletten is president of the company and handles daily operations.

The entrance to Taco Betty’s faces State Street near the Rock River and the restaurant has an open design and large windows that bring in loads of natural light. Diners have a front-seat view of Rockford City Market in summertime and downtown Rockford year-round.

The goal of this restaurant is to serve tasty food, not necessarily authentic Mexican fare, says manager Dann Shallenberger.

“A lot of people say this is not an authentic Mexican restaurant, but we never tried to be that,” Shallenberger

says. “We just want to make fun, unique tacos.”

Among signature offerings are pork and pineapple tacos made with chilebrined pork, roasted pineapple, cilantro and onion and crispy fish tacos with roasted corn, dried chiles, cheese, avocado lime mayo, cilantro and onion.

Tacos come in pairs for lunch and threesomes for dinner. They’re served with smoked black beans and rice, house pickles and salsa. Additional flavor combinations come and go throughout the year.

Other items on the menu include chips and guacamole, chicken taquitos, chicken verde nachos and taco salad.

The kitchen inside Taco Betty’s is exposed, so your food is made right in front of you. Executive Chef Quinn Lawyer oversees what happens in the kitchen.

The restaurant continues to evolve,

Dann Shallenberger mixes margaritas from juice squeezed fresh daily.

with more made-from-scratch items being added over time.

“Pretty much everything we serve is made in-house,” says Shallenberger.

The restaurant opens daily at 11 a.m.

The kitchen is open Sun.-Thurs. until 10 p.m. and until midnight on Fri.-Sat. ❚ ❚

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. $$ 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.

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. $-$$.

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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.-2 p.m.

Sun. 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Weekend brunch. Large menu, Swedish pancakes specialty. $$ Taco Betty’s  Casual/Mexican-American. 212 E. State St., Rkfd., (815) 977-5650. LD Daily 11am-1am. $$. ❚

Aug. 28

To advertise call 815-316-2300

In the Spotlight

Hearthrock Cafe

B

enson Stone Company’s Hearthrock Café has introduced new items to its already-popular menu. Head Chef Todd Cooper is following the popular farm-totable trend, working with seasonal and fresh ingredients as much as possible.

One of his most popular new creations is the Smoked Andouille Sausage Flatbread, with a homemade Marinara sauce, fresh mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, red pepper and mushrooms.

There’s also a new Benson Reuben sandwich, made with homemade sauce and pickled red cabbage.

Fresh salads include apple walnut, mandarin orange, garden, spinach or Caesar, iwith optional chicken or bacon.

Hearthrock Café hours are Mon.Fri. 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and Sat. 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Breakfast is served until 11 a.m. Benson Stone Company is located at 1100 11th St. in Rockford. Learn more at BensonStone. com/hearthrock. ❚

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Y A C

Prevent Vehicle Trouble with Maintenance I

By Peggy Werner

f you drive a car, truck, recreational vehicle, have a fleet of trucks, or any other motorized transportation, chances are you can find everything you need at Scott’s RV, Truck and Auto Repair at 3301 American Road.

Owner Scott Adkins started out in a shop like his own, and when it closed he saw an opportunity to continue to service people in the way he was used to doing.

“I wanted a fair, honest repair shop where people could get everything done in one place. We’re pretty diversified in what we do, and it’s especially convenient for customers with more than one vehicle,” he says.

He opened his business 11 years ago and quickly outgrew the small shop located just a half mile from his current location. In 2009, he bought a lot and put up a building that underwent a major expansion in 2014, bringing the number of

work bays to 15. He employs five certified technicians in automotive services and diesel mechanics and a total of 11 employees.

Adkins says it’s not too early to think about avoiding trouble down the road.

“So many problems with vehicles can be prevented with routine maintenance. Oftentimes, what people think is the main problem is really a symptom of something else gone wrong,” he says.

To get ready for winter, it’s a good idea to have the tires, battery, coolant, wipers, brakes and other moving parts checked.

“Cars don’t need tune-ups as often as they used to, but it’s still a good idea to have a fall inspection. Everything works harder in the winter and you don’t want to have a breakdown on the coldest day,” he says.

His business services every type of

foreign and domestic vehicle, warranties its work for 12 months or 12,000 miles, has the latest diagnostic equipment and a waiting area with WI-FI, provides free shuttle rides within a limited area and does Illinois and federal DOT inspections. Learn more by calling (815) 8740800 or visit scottstruckandauto.com. ❚

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