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Century-old home gets a make-over for family living

PAID Permit No. 440 Sterling, IL 61081 P.O. Box 498

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Spring 2014

Burgers, sweets (and even martinis) are offered inside

Plan your summer!

Petunia Fest at 50, many more events

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Publisher Trevis Mayfield Advertising Director Jennifer Baratta Editor Larry Lough Magazine Editor Marla Seidell Page Design Robin Norburg Matt Lindstrom

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Published by

Exquisite woodworking, detail throughout

Sauk Valley Media 3200 E. Lincolnway Sterling, IL 61081 815-625-3600 Articles and advertisements are the property of Sauk Valley Media. No portion of Dixon Living Magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Ad content is not the responsibility of Sauk Valley Media. The information in this magazine is believed to be accurate; however, Sauk Valley Media cannot and does not guarantee its accuracy. Sauk Valley Media cannot and will not be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services provided by advertisers listed in any portion of this magazine.

Homeowners renovate Queen Anne to balance tradition , functionality

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Brighten her day with a fresh bouquet.

Come check out our new line of s

*EWELRY s 3CARVES s 'IFT )TEMS

Dee Dee Morgan, Owner

Make us your One Stop Shop!

We also have Tuxes for him!

1103 Palmyra Street, Dixon www.eflowersetc.com

815-288-3335 d i x o n

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features Swim lessons among summer offerings at the Y

6 Treating clients like family is second nature Kristen Crawford honored as local Realtor of the Year

Programs keep kids outside ... and moving!

Satisfy your sweet tooth

27 And you can dance ...

10

Centerstage offers tap, jazz, ballet, tumbling, hip-hop, and more

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Where you’re a stranger only once

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Shamrock Pub offers award-winning food in friendly environment

A nice variety of cute things Penny Lane vendors offer items from toys to teapots

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Studio 404 teamwork focuses on customer comfort

Home’s History Shines Through

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Park district offers summer sports for all ages Sports, leagues, lessons among the activities

Get a little martini at Tipsy Bar in fifth year of offering friendly, relaxed environment

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Creating relaxing, enjoyable experience

Whitcombes renovate century-old home for their family.

Folsom’s serves up cookies, crème horns, cinnamon rolls, turnovers, and more

An icon in this community

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Ralph Contreras has spent a lifetime serving

Celebrating 50 years

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Petunia Festival to open with a different beat

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SUMMER OFFERINGS AT THE “Y�

Amaya Contreras, 6, of Dixon lies back and floats while learning to swim at the Dixon YMCA. Photos by Alex T. Paschal/Dixon Living

Programs keep kids outside... and moving!

Swim Lessons Among

BY KAYLA HEIMERMAN SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

F

amilies looking for summer fun need look no further than the Dixon Family YMCA, which offers swimming lessons and day camp for kids and aquatic fitness classes in an outdoor pool for adults.

The YMCA has swimming lessons for children as young as 6 months.

Lessons for children ages 6 and older are on weekday afternoons, weekday evenings and Saturday mornings from June 2 to July 12 or July 14 to Aug. 23.

Lessons are offered at various skill levels.

Cost is $25 for members.

Lessons also are available for 3- to 5-year-olds, and parent/child swim lessons are given for children 6 to 36 months old.

The Y offers a “gym and swim� class for children in two age groups, 1 to 3 and 3 to 5. The class has two components – 30 minutes of play time in the gym (during which kids work on tumbling skills and strength, flexibility and coordination) and 45 minutes of swimming lessons in the pool.

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The class is weekday mornings. The tot class (ages 1 to 3) is $24 for members, while the older class (ages 3 to 5) is $30 for members.

The Y also has a summer swim team that practices weekday evenings and competes from May 19 to July 25. Cost is $70 for members.

It also offers a lifeguard training course for those 15 and older from May 13 to May 27; it does not meet every day. The class is $180 for members.

The YMCA has special summer programming at Timber Creek Golf Club, too, including swim lessons, a deep water swim class, and Zumba in the pool.

Registration for all aquatic offerings starts the first week of May. The YMCA also offers summer day camp for children ages 5 to 12.

“The kids are outside basically all day,” said Lindsey Kerley, membership and child care director. “There’s no sitting in front of the TV, no playing video games. We’re going on hikes, playing games, and swimming, …”

Campers spend the majority of the day outside. They also take field trips, such as to Splash Landing Aquatic Center in Bettendorf or Sky High Sports trampoline park in Naperville, once a week.

Camp has a weekly theme and focuses not only on physical activity, but social skills and character development through games and activities.

Parents may choose to send their kids to camp part time or full time. Only three to five spots are left for the summer, though, Kerley said.

The YMCA doesn’t offer summer sports, but it has a speed, agility and quickness conditioning class to prepare youths for fall sports. The

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class is from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays June 2 to July 11 or July 14 to Aug. 15.

The class, geared toward children ages 8 to 16, covers linear and lateral speed drills to increase overall quickness, agility drills to improve directional mechanics and plyometric moves and conditioning workouts to increase power and fitness.

“It just keeps them moving,” said Christine Hoyle, sports and wellness director.

Cost is $40 for members.

Summer is prime time for soccer registration, though; it runs from June 1 to July 15.

Players must be 4 by July 31 to participate on teams, which are divided into U.S. Club Soccer age groups up to U-14.

Games start the first week of school and are mostly on Saturdays, although some are on Friday nights, all at The Meadows. The season lasts about 6 weeks.

Fees are based on age and start at $40 for members.

The Y is the only place in town that offers soccer, Hoyle said.

Caption: Dixon YMCA day campers throw the ball around in the yard outside of the building. The kids have been cooped up the past couple days so when the weather looked tame, they took advantage of it.

Games start the first week of school and are mostly on Saturdays, although some are on Friday nights, all at The Meadows. The season lasts about 6 weeks.

Fees are based on age and start at $40 for members.

The Y is the only place in town that offers soccer, Hoyle said. s Dixon YMCA day campers throw a ball around in the yard outside the building. The kids had been cooped up the past couple of days, so when the weather looked tame, they took advantage of it.

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Treating Clients

Like Family is Second Nature Kirsten Crawford honored as local Realtor of the Year

BY KIMBERLY WATLEY SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

K

irsten Crawford, managing broker and co-owner of Crawford Realty, is the local Realtor of the Year, an honor awarded by the Sauk Valley Association of Realtors.

Nominated by Vicky Turner, a two-time recipient, Crawford was surprised and happy her peers chose her for the award.

“I was honored because you don’t expect that,” she said.

Turner, of United Country Burke Realty, said Crawford’s dedication, serving as a member of committees within the board of realtors, is one of many reasons she was a worthy candidate.

Kirsten Crawford, managing broker and co-owner of Crawford Realty, won Realtor of the Year, a top-honor in the real estate business. Honors were given

by Sauk Valley Association of Realtors.

Home of the original Spaghetti Pizza

Angelo’s III 285-0055 10

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800 N. Galena Ave., Dixon Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m.-12 a.m.

“She does such a great job,” Turner said.

“She is willing to put in the time and energy of a project. She’s thorough and does a great job overall. I just really admire her for her professionalism.”

She also said she feels Crawford is a great role model for her children and other working mothers.

“My children are older now, but it is pretty challenging when you have a young family, and she does,” Turner said.

Crawford and her husband, Tim, married for 15 years, opened their business in 2008. The couple have three children: Kyle 13, Ashley 10, and Jordyn 8.

“My kids and family are my No. 1 priority,” Crawford said. “With sports and dance and other school activities, it’s kinda crazy, but fun.”

Previously, she worked in banking for 13 years, a background that she believes helped when she decided to join her husband, who had started selling real estate right out of college.

“He always loved it, and wanted to widen his career a bit, start his own business,” she said.

“Working with my husband as a team with clients, we focus on our different strengths.”

They both take pride in their commitment to

those they serve. “We are not the ‘sale is most important’ type of realtors,” she said. “We want the best decision for them possible. If we see what we feel is a wrong choice, we will guide them.”

For example, she said, it is vital to make sure first-time homebuyers do not get themselves “over their heads” in debt or overextend themselves.

“We have a strong family and carry that over into our business,” Crawford added. “Treating our clients like family is second nature because we know how important your home is.”

For the coming year, the Crawfords’ team of 10 expects a positive and busy season. Gearing up for spring, they have added a mobile app, increased their web presence, and continue to develop a broader, more user-friendly internet base to accommodate people and their busy lifestyles. s

For more information: Crawford Realty 124 E Boyd St., Dixon 815-285-3444 www.crawfordrealtyonline.com Sauk Valley Association of Realtors: www.svarhomes.com.

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Where Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Only a Stranger Once!

Shamrock Pub offers award-winning food in friendly environment

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Elaine Bruns and husband Stewart invite you to try their awardwinning burgers.

Photos by Alex T. Paschal

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hamrock Pub, which has been a favorite gathering place in Dixon since the 1980s, has seen changes in the 2 years since Elaine and Stew Bruns bought the business.

Elaine, who had worked at Shamrock for 9 years before buying it, is proud the environment, creating the motto, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re only a stranger once.â&#x20AC;?

Great food and gaming machines can be enjoyed any day of the week â&#x20AC;&#x201C; along with a unique frosty schooner, a cold draft beer served in glasses kept in the freezer.

There is a Bloody Mary bar available on Saturday or Sunday with all of the traditional garnishes for only $4; Smirnoff or Absolute vodkas are $5.

Customers can also enjoy specials every night of the week.

Monday is Taco night, with a beef taco for $1.75 or a chicken taco for $2.50.

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BY CASSANDRA ZIMMERMAN SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

Tuesday and Wednesday night are the Chef â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice special.

The Thursday special is the chef â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creation burger with fries. The type of burger varies from week to week but, according to Elaine Bruns, the jalapeĂąo popper burger has become a customer favorite.

On Friday and Saturday nights, Shamrock has two specials: smoked prime rib with fries and slaw, price dependent on cut, or fried chicken for $6.95.

According to Bruns, the Friday and Saturday specials are a customer favorite. The food, which is also available through take-out, has also been recognized in the local Readers Choice competition, winning second place for best burgers and third place for fries.

Shamrock has created a loyal following by taking the happiness of its customers seriously. The Brunses, along with part-owners Ed and Nancy Miller, hold an annual customer appreciation night the night before Thanksgiving to provide free appetizers and snacks to those who show up.

Doug Stem is a long-time fan of Shamrock. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have never had a bad meal, poor service or a warm beer,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a home away from home, a mom-and-pop bar, the hometown bar the way it used to be. We come every Saturday for the good laughs, meet friends, and have great conversation.â&#x20AC;?

The sentiment is echoed by Rick and Deb Hartley, who love the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cheers-likeâ&#x20AC;? atmosphere. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We love this place and come two or three times a week,â&#x20AC;? Rick said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everyone is always friendly, we have great service, and it is just a really nice, comfortable place to enjoy a beer, food, and see old friends.â&#x20AC;?

For Elaine Bruns, creating an environment enjoyed by her customers is most important. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love the social life that has been created at the Shamrock,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Anyone who comes will always meet new people. We have built friendships and an extended family that is very important to Stew and I. We hope that people will continue to enjoy the camaraderie that can be seen here every day.â&#x20AC;? s

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Order takeout: Shamrock Pub 1401 Chicago Ave. 815-288-4163 Bar opens 11 a.m. daily.

Kitchen hours 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-7p.m. Sunday Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShamrockPubDixon

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A nice variety of cute things

Penny Lane vendors offer items from toys to teapots

BY KIMBERLY WATLEY SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

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enny Lane takes shoppers through a stroll down Memory Lane as soon as they step foot inside.

It offers trinkets both vintage and antiques; toys; small implements; Hollywood memorabilia; and several handcrafted pieces, including purses, gifts and accessories.

The store is made possible by the 24 vendors who partner with owner Penny Williams-Slusser. She gives credit to them for the quick success since the Jan. 16 opening.

Customers say they enjoy the welcoming ways of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Penny Lane.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not really my name,â&#x20AC;? Williams-Slusser said with a laugh, â&#x20AC;&#x153;but I answer to it.â&#x20AC;?

While assisting Karen and Ron Scanlan of Ashton, Williams-Slusser points out items of interest. Each has their own collection.

For him, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vintage toys like G.I. Joe memorabilia, Hot Wheels and Marx Playsets, while she is in search of Hall Teapots.

Three rooms are filled with various goods, from handmade hair accessories, home dĂŠcor and jewelry, to antiques and vintage pieces, offering a little something for everyone, she said.

Dealers and their wide assortment of merchandise come from as far away as Amarillo, Texas, and as close to home as Dixon. Others are from Harmon, Forreston, Polo, LaSalle, Sterling and Rock Falls.

Offering them space to sell their wares, Williams-Slusser does not charge vendors a percentage of their proceeds or a commission fee unless there is a credit card transaction.

That requires a 5 percent processing fee. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Each pays a flat rental price,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is based on how much space they need and ranges from $20 per month to $100.â&#x20AC;?

While shopping with a couple of friends, Kay Rude

of Sterling said she was a frequent flier at Penny Lane because it has â&#x20AC;&#x153;a nice variety of cute things, and they are very well priced.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;That is what I like to hear,â&#x20AC;? Williams-Slusser said, smiling.

Affordability is important to her, though she always allows dealers to price their own products. Before opening the store, she bought and sold items from swap meets, rummage sales, and the Internet. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This place just fell into my lap,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And it worked, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been great.â&#x20AC;?

The Scanlans browsed the store, joking with her as she shared information about coming events. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In May, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m planning to host a mother-daughter tea with an American Girl Doll theme,â&#x20AC;? she said.

She was inspired by one of the dealers who handcrafts wooden furniture and makes clothing for the popular dolls.

Serving the community is important to Williams-Slusser.

She hopes to create more events of special interest to â&#x20AC;&#x153;give people something fun to look forward to.â&#x20AC;?

Taking part in Second Saturdays and Shop Small Saturdays are a couple of events she holds near and dear, keeping later store hours during those times. s

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Penny Lane 221 S. Peoria, directly across from St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s distinguished red door 815-499-1292 Hours 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Saturday-Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Closed Sunday, Wednesday Facebook: www.facebook.com/221SPeoria

Making All The Right Moves For You!

1254 N. Galena Avenue, Dixon Phone: 815-288-4648 Proudly Serving the Sauk Valley Since 1986 Matt Hermes Managing Broker Bill Gorski

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Creating a relaxing, enjoyable experience

Studio 404 teamwork focuses on customer comfort

T

BY CASSANDRA ZIMMERMAN SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

rendy Studio 404, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, is the perfect place for those looking to refresh their own style or create a new look throughout the year – or even just to relax with a facial or massage.

The business owned by Sally Montavon and her husband, Bill, was named one of Salon Today Magazine’s Top 200 Fastest Growing Salons. The salon prides itself on creating a

relaxing and enjoyable experience for anyone who walks through the door.

Studio 404 is also a teaching salon. Each stylist is required to pass the 41-week training program as well as a written and practical exam – after passing the required state schooling.

For Montavon, 47, the program is essential.

“I, along with other stylists, realized that after we were done with schooling, that we lacked real world experience and knowledge,” Continued on page 18

Sally Montavon, owner of Studio 404.

Photos by Alex T. Paschal / Dixon Living

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she said. “Our training program creates consistency by giving all stylists a standard set of abilities.”

The training, which equates to 5 years of experience, also teaches each stylist the principal cutting technique used in the salon, which takes into account the shape and surface of the scalp when hair is being cut.

Stylist Stacia Staples is among the 15 employees.

“We really work together as a team,” she said. “We want to focus on the experience of the customer as soon as they walk in the salon.”

A team can better serve a guest than only one person, Montavon says, and a group effort is what makes Studio 404 a relaxing experience.

Staples, along with stylists April Strong and Audrey Brooks, has been with the salon for the past 25 years.

During March and April, guests are welcome to try a new service, such as a pedicure or Mirabella makeup application, or new product line, for 25 percent off.

Listening is one of the most important parts of a hair appointment.

By following “The Art of Consultation,” each stylist at Studio 404 creates an extensive profile of each client.

The profile takes into account hair structure as well as lifestyle.

“By listening to each client and better understanding their lives, we set each person up for great hair every day between appointments,” Montavon says.

That includes keeping up with present trends that might not yet be popular in the Sauk Valley area. One such trend is the use of splash lights, a band of lighter color blended into darker hair to re-create the look of natural light hitting hair, which can help to elongate a round or square face or enhance facial features.

The salon, which features Pureology and Redken hair products, has also seen romantic hairstyles similar to the Gatsby-era rise in popularity. Those styles can include feathers or other hair accessories similar to those seen in the 1920s and 1940s.

Volume reminiscent of the 1980s, but with more flow and natural movement, is a frequent request from clients.

While the salon focuses on its clients, it has also succeeded in positively impacting the community through events, such as the 10K Hairy Buzz Run held in October.

Wedding parties can also enjoy the relaxation of the salon, where the stylists stage an event before the big event, many times including a continental breakfast.

The will to create confidence has also encouraged Montavon to offer a $500 scholarship to a high school student planning to attend one of the three local cosmetology schools.

“Every visit is particularly meaningful to the client, an experience to learn something new or get a refresher,” Montavon explained. “We want to create a visit that serves our clients’ lives. These programs help to reward our clients while helping them to feel better about themselves.” s

Hair today...

Studio 404 112 E. Fellows St. 815-284-4247 Call for appointments. www.studio404salon.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/404salon

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Angie Chavera takes a call from a client at Studio 404.

Derri Bowers of Dixon has her hair styled

by Audrey Brooks of Studio 404 in Dixon.

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Exquisite Woodworking,

Detail

Throughout

Homeowners renovate Queen Anne to balance tradition, functionality

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BY CASSANDRA ZIMMERMAN SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

aul Whitcombe had a childhood dream, and 2 years ago that dream came true when he bought the Queen Anne home on South Hennepin Avenue.

“When I was a little boy, I played in the grade school marching band,” said Whitcombe, 47. “We marched from South Central School, past this home. I had always said that someday I wanted this house, and I had never even seen the inside.”

Paul, his wife, Reni, and their four children have been renovating the home with the goal of restoring it to its initial glory, but with the modern functionality needed for the family.

Built around 1905, the construction followed designs created by George F. Barber, a popular architect in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

The house was converted to a nursing home during World War II. Continued on page 23

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Original stained glass windows cast highlights on the ornate wood staircase.

“

A piano is the centerpiece of the music room.

Photos by Alex T. Paschal

“My favorite part of the home, the grand staircase, is unique to this home; there is not one like it anywhere else because it was designed for this home.”

PAUL WHITCOMBE

Intricate woodwork and pocket doors can be found through out the home.

“

The spacious kitchen has plenty of room for the whole family to pitch in.

22

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A nook in the living room is where the children keep and play games.

The entertainment area has a niche that the children sit and play games in.

“The president of the Dixon Power and Light Company bought the plans and then customized them to better fit his own likes,” Whitcombe said. “It was then sold to the president of Dixon College.

“My favorite part of the home, the grand staircase, is unique to this home; there is not one like it anywhere else because it was designed for this home.”

The staircase, made of quarter-cut oak like most of the flooring in the home, is original as is the exquisite woodworking and detail throughout.

Stained glass windows bring light and character into the home.

With five bedrooms, two bathrooms and servants quarters, the Whitcombe family has plenty of space to create precious memories to last

a lifetime.

“The home exudes a relaxing atmosphere,” Whitcombe said. “It is quiet and beautiful with characteristics that cannot be re-created in a newer home. My favorite moments are when I am able to sit in the parlor, watching the fire, with my children in the pocket nook playing board games.”

The family has greater plans for the home, 521 S. Hennepin Ave. The spacious attic will one day become a master bedroom retreat. The carriage house, which has already seen beautiful renovations, will become a space for their college-age son, with the ground floor being used as a garage.

Continued on page 24

A large, carved, wooden dining room table is big enough to sit eight.

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The Whitcombes built a new driveway to replace the original, which was made for the model T so popular when the home was built. They also replaced all of the concrete sidewalks around the home.

However, the family realized that renovating the Queen Anne style home has its issues.

While the house features many arched windows that include beautiful woodwork, it has become difficult for the family to find a carpenter who is able to fix or imitate the ornate designs so prominent in the Queen Anne era.

For the family, the memories they are creating far outweigh any issues they encounter.

Paul loves his home and the potential he sees within it. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It has so much character, and we have already created so many memories in the short 2 years that we have lived here,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is phenomenal to decorate for the holidays, when the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history really shines through.â&#x20AC;? s

Nearly every inch of wall space is full pf photographs, most taken by Paul himself.

A carriage house sits above the garage.

A spiderweblike fleur-de-lis window looks out from the the top floor.

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SATISFY YOUR SWEET TOOTH

Folsom’s Bakery and Cafe in Dixon offers fresh baked goods.

Photos by Philip Marruffo

Folsom’s serves up cookies, crème horns, cinnamon rolls, turnovers, and more

F

BY CASSANDRA ZIMMERMAN SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

Customers pick up their baked goods at Folsom’s Bakery and Cafe in Dixon.

olsom’s Bakery and Cafe, which opened 5 months ago, has continued the same great traditions that lovers of the Rock Falls store have enjoyed for the past 14 years – while creating some new traditions in Dixon.

Located on North Galena Avenue since Oct. 28, the trendy shop is owned by Jim Helle, 43, who is striving to create a new gathering spot for Dixon locals.

In addition to selling the popular Folsom’s cookies. which are well loved in this area, the new bakery and cafe bakes crème horns, cinnamon rolls, turnovers, and pecan rolls, among many other items.

Folsom’s also serves frappés and Java Mania Coffee brought from Loves Park. Kymin Hussung and Michelle Zeisler, who work at the bakery and cafe, have seen a few items become quick customer favorites.

“The bakery can go through 10 dozen doughnut holes a day,” Hussung explained. “We also sell out of chocolate creamfilled long johns almost every day. But my favorite item, and another customer favorite, are the Danishes. They come in cream cheese, cherry, apricot, lemon, and apple, among several flavors.”

Everything is always baked fresh, Helle said, urging customers to watch for new items.

Continued on page 28

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Diana Owens gets coffee at the new Folsomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bakery and Cafe in Dixon.

Kymin Hussung helps customers at the Dixon Folsomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bakery and Cafe.

Customers to Folsomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in Dixon look over the baked goods.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sometimes the doughnuts can sell out by 10 a.m.,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our doughnut specials have become popular. A dozen doughnuts are $7.50, or 12 rolls are $8.50. Customers can also buy six donuts and six rolls for $8. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are also a lot of things we do up here in Dixon that we do not offer in Rock Falls. We offer our coffee to go, which fits up to two pots of coffee for $14.99.â&#x20AC;?

Dena Knight and her mother, Diana Owens, have become regulars at Folsomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new store. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have created a family club, and we meet here once, sometimes twice a week,â&#x20AC;? Dena said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My sister Stephanie loves the bagels and soup, and our friend Ron McDonald also joins us.â&#x20AC;?

Her mother agrees. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The staff is always friendly, and the coffee is exceptional,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We try something different every time, whether it be the bagels, the coffee cake, or the soup.â&#x20AC;?

The shop also has daily specials. Each day of the week, a different soup is featured, such as the stuffed green pepper or chicken dumpling. The soups can also be served in a bread bowl, creating a great lunch for any hungry customer who stops by.

Customers can also order items from the bakery such as cupcakes and regular cakes for events like weddings and birthdays.

Helle has also started baking gluten-free cakes to fulfill a need in the community.

He has continued some family traditions and has started to share them with the community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our new Normandy Coffee Cake is a family recipe that my grandpa used to make,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We want to bring back some old-fashioned items into the community. It feels great to have customers enjoying Folsomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bakery and Cafe, and giving the community a place to meet and have good conversations.â&#x20AC;? s

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We service all makes & models of lawn tractors!

Baked fresh Folsom’s Bakery and Cafe 847 N. Galena Ave. 815-677-9385 5 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday 5 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Folsoms-Bakery-Cafe/258356870981404

Folsom’s Bakery and Cafe offers a comfortable atmosphere to enjoy your daily cup of coffee.

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Beginning class members Hannah Bass, Cecila Reglin, Madolynn Kirby and Kaylee Dodson work on their routine at Centerstage.

Photos by Alex T. Paschal/Dixon Living

AND YOU CAN DANCE...

Centerstage offers tap, jazz, ballet, tumbling, hip-hop, and more

F

BY CASSANDRA ZIMMERMAN SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

or those who love to dance, Centerstage Dance Studio provides an opportunity to enhance the artist in everyone.

The studio, which has seven teachers and seven assistant teachers, has been offering classes to students of all ages, from 2-1/2 to those who are young at heart.

Students can choose from tap, jazz, ballet, tumbling, hip-hop, contemporary, and adult classes for the past 26 years.

Owners Cheryl and Matt Moeller are proud of the atmosphere that has come to embody what is important at Centerstage. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The younger children show such great enthusiasm and excitement,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is promising to see how excited they are to learn to dance.

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When I watch the older students, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m in awe when I watch their technique and see the passion come through when they dance.â&#x20AC;?

Dancers have an opportunity to showcase their passion for dance at the annual recital at Sterling High School. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Love Dance!â&#x20AC;? will be staged April 25 and 27 this year.

The studio recently performed in Hollywood Convention and Competition, where competitors attended dance sessions throughout the day and competed at night. Twenty-seven of Centerstage Dance Studioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s students won prizes, such as the opportunity to take classes at Millennium Dance Studio, free Hollywood makeover and professional headshots, music video performances, and auditions with the Laker girls, all located in Los Angeles, for one week over the summer.

While about one is five of the students is a competitive dancer, Centerstage focuses on opportunities for dancers to grow as individuals and create lasting memories.

Logan Moeller, Cheryl and Mattâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s son, has been taking tap and hip-hop classes at the studio since he was 3.

Continued on page 32

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Sesily Gaffey rehearses for an upcoming recital.

Logan most enjoys dancing with friends and learning new techniques. Jazz and lyrical dancer Eve Hvarre has been dancing since she was 2.

Eve says she loves “to see the different dances and routines from other studios during competitions.”

Both students’ attitudes reflect the importance of sportsmanship at Centerstage.

“For many dancers, Centerstage is their second home, and I like to think my staff is good role models and have great advice for these kids,” Cheryl said. “We stress the importance of good sportsmanship and being supportive of each other and dancers from other studios.”

Centerstage also has a larger impact on the community.

Moeller will start a fine arts preschool in the fall to focus on a core education curriculum with the opportunity to take additional classes such as art, dance, and acting. The school, the first in the area, will run from 9 to 11 a.m.

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Those who have seen the movie “Teen Beach Party” will appreciate the studio’s own Teen Beach Party from 10 a.m. to noon April 5, when those who attend can learn to hula hoop, dance, play games and tumble.

An American Girl Tea party is planned for May. Dancers also participate in charitable events such as Operation Christmas Child, Quartermania, and the Minute to Win It event at Grace United Methodist Church. The studio will also perform with a Whitney Huston Impersonator at a fundraiser this spring.

Moeller is also dedicated to supporting those who wish to pursue a career in the fine arts. Beginning this fall, Centerstage will accept applications for a $500 scholarship to a high school senior pursing a fine arts degree.

For Moeller, 48, the lasting impact of students’ experiences at Centerstage is what matters most.

“These kids inspire me because they have learned to juggle school, activities, family, sports, and dance,” she said. “It takes a special kid, or one that’s committed, to be able to organize their day-to-day lives to do that. We are now having many students from the past who are now bringing their children to the studio.

It is wonderful to see some second- and third-generation families at Centerstage.” s Left: Jozi Dever, dancer in the advanced class, rehearse at Centerstage in Dixon.

Intermediate class members work on a routine at Centerstage.

Get your groove on ...

Centerstage Dance Studio 1701 Eyelet Road 815-284-6489 www.centerstagedixon.com Birthday parties with custom themes available Annual recital times: 7 p.m. April 25, 1 and 4 p.m. April 27

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Nichols Greenhouses 7 TH 3TREET $IXON s -ONDAY 3ATURDAY 3UNDAY Celebrating 41 Years!

Bedding Plants

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Friends Roberta Royer of Woosung and Mark Loham of the Quad Cities enjoy a picnic lunch along the Rock River in Lowell Park.

Photo by Alex T. Paschal/ Dixon Living

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he summer brings with it not only sunshine, but also softball, tennis and golf â&#x20AC;&#x201C; sports leagues and lessons for all ages through the Dixon Park District.

Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the docket: Softball: Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; slow-pitch softball kicks off in early June; the deadline to register is April 30. Leagues are divided by age and open to those in kindergarten through eighth grade. Games are Tuesday nights and last 6 to 8 weeks.

Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fast-pitch softball starts in late May; the deadline to register is May 14.

Two leagues are available, one for those age 12 and younger and another for those 14 and younger. Games are Tuesday and Wednesday nights from May to July.

The park district also offers a softball fundamentals camp for girls in kindergarten through fourth grade from 9 to 11 a.m. June 10-12. The deadline to register is May 14.

Tennis: Tennis lessons run in three sessions from early June through mid-August. Lessons are offered in four categories: Tiny Tot, for 3- to 6-year-olds. Lessons are Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.

Junior, for 7- to 18-year-olds. Lessons at four skill levels are 5 days a week.

Early Bird, for those 16 and older. Lessons are Tuesday and Thursday mornings.

Evening, for working adults or children of working parents. Lessons are Monday and Wednesday nights.

Golf: Golf lessons for boys and girls ages 9 to 13 run in two sessions, June 17-19 and June 24-26. Classes are limited to three students.

The park district, in partnership with the Dixon High School golf team, also

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Cila Freitas,11, gives a big spin to Theo Matos-Carlson, 5, and Sophie Carlson,11, on the merry-go-round at Lowell Park in DIxon. The group was down from Madison, Wis., visiting grandparents in Dixon.

Photo by Alex T. Paschal/ Dixon Living

ZOOMER saysâ&#x20AC;Ś

Intestinal worms, heart worms, fleas & ticks... OH MY!

My mom gives me a heartworm test & parasite prevention year round, every year.

offers a free golf camp for boys and girls ages 9 to 13 from 10-11:30 a.m. July 8-11. The deadline to register is April 30, and 10 participants will be drawn May 1.

Pickleball: Pickleball, a racquet sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis and ping-pong, starts in early June. Play is open to those 10 to 18 years old.

For adults: Softball leagues open in May; menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s league begins May 19, womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s league begins May 22, and co-ed league begins May 23. The deadline to register is May 7, or when teams are full.

The park district also offers fall softball leagues. The deadline to register is Aug. 11, or when teams full.

The district also offers flag football in July.

For more information, including prices, or to register for summer offerings, contact the Dixon Park District at 815-284-3306 or go to www.dixonparkdistrict. recdesk.com.The Y is the only place in town that offers soccer, Hoyle said. s

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Get a Little Martini at Tipsy Bar in fifth year of offering friendly, relaxed environment

A dozen beer varieties are always on tap at Tipsy.

With new lines that were recently installed, it offers the coldest beer around, said co-owner Scott Burkitt. Seasonal and crafts, many from local breweries, are periodically switched out to give customers a continuous assortment. Three Olives is the vodka of choice for martinis at Tipsy, where a seemingly infinite number of flavors is available.

Photos by Kimberly Watley

“Enter as strangers, leave as friends” is the motto at Tipsy.

T

BY KIMBERLY WATLEY SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

ipsy has been a downtown staple since 2009, when Linda and Scott Burkitt opened their bar.

Their daughter, Caroline, has been instrumental in its success, the couple said.

Known as the first martini bar in the area, Tipsy still offers more varieties than most.

Three Olives is the vodka of choice, and Tipsy carries 32 flavors and other brands, Linda said, making the options seemingly endless.

The dirty cosmo and lemon drop martini selections are the top picks among patrons. Dessert assortments like chocolate are also very popular.

“We’ll make any drink, and if we don’t know how to make it, we will look it up,” Linda said. “Manhattans are coming back; bourbons, whiskeys, both served on the rocks; basically, what’s old is new again.”

Caroline manages the staff as well as making sure there are plenty of varieties of beer available. A dozen assortments are always on tap. Seasonal and crafts, many from local breweries, are periodically switched out to give customers a continuous assortment.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;We installed new lines that make it the coldest beer around, too,â&#x20AC;?

Lindaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sister, Brenda Humphrey, the artist, painted the mystery porScott said. trait: their mother, Caroline. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Caroline gets all the credit for our beer selections,â&#x20AC;? Linda said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I do â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a diverse bar,â&#x20AC;? Linda added. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We get people of all ages. It is rebookkeeping and taste testing the drinks,â&#x20AC;? she added with a laugh. markable how the demographics have changed since we opened.â&#x20AC;?

Each person has a role, Scott said, calling himself the â&#x20AC;&#x153;plumber today, Sipping a strawberry lemonade martini, customer Emily Mills said it electrician tomorrow.â&#x20AC;? was the first martini she had ever had.

They offer nightly drink specials, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really good,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I like it here. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s including Tuesday $2 margaritas, a nice, clean place, nice open floor plan, with a Wednesday $1 domestic drafts, lot of space, and the people are just really super Thursday $5 martinis, Friday $5 long friendly.â&#x20AC;? islands, and Sunday the loaded bloody The Tipsy motto is written on a mirror behind Mary with cheese, beef stick, pickles, the bar: Enter as strangers, leave as friends. olives, and additional garnishes upon â&#x20AC;&#x153;We really try to follow that,â&#x20AC;? Linda said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We Cutting up with request. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s our brunch in a glass,â&#x20AC;? like having a relaxing, quiet bar where you can customers, Tipsy bartender Lauren Linda said. come in after work and have a seat, talk to friends, Mills mixes a Patrons like the relaxed atmosphere. not have to scream over music.â&#x20AC;? martini, one of Four arm chairs surround a table in â&#x20AC;&#x153;We even have these plug-ins so when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re many specialty front of one of the windows looking out and you need to charge your phone, you can,â&#x20AC;? drinks available. out on the downtown. Several high said Scott, showing an outlet next to purse hooks tables and chairs, as well as ample under the barâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s edge. seating around the bar, offer places to relax.

Tipsyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also has five gambling machines, three dartTipsy Bar Tables and chairs on the deck expand boards, and the only shuffleboard in town. good-weather seating, and a two-car-sized â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a fun place to gather for after work, wind79 S. Hennepin Ave. garage door is kept open during nice ing down or for a party or celebration type of thing,â&#x20AC;?

815-288-1119 Hours weather, offering an even more open feeling.

Linda said.

1 p.m.-1 a.m. weekdays The walls are adorned with paintings of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everyone asks how the economy has affected us, 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Saturday many famous faces. Most customers can and I say, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Everyone is either crying in their beer or 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday guess all of them, from Humphrey Bogart celebrating, and we give them a spot to do both.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? s Find Tipsy on Facebook at https://www. to Marilyn Monroe. But one small profile facebook.com/tipsy.bar.9?fref=ts. stumps everyone.

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AN ICON IN THIS COMMUNITY Ralph Contreras has spent a lifetime serving

BY JOHN KERMOTT SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

T

But Contreras was a server, and he continued to serve throughout his here are two kinds of people in the world: those who serve, and retirement. those who consume. Ralph Contreras, 89, has been a server all “I’ve done a lot with sports,” he said in a bit of an understatement. his life.

Contreras first developed a church softball league, then he put His first job was in the service industry, washing dishes at Dixon’s together the Dixon city softball league. Interest continued to grow, so Ford Hopkins Drug Store and soda fountain. He wasn’t old enough to Contreras developed a “25 and older” league to go along with the 14-tobegin working legally, but he wanted the job so badly that he fudged 25-year-old league. the truth about his age. He got the job not long after he graduated from He was then asked to sit on the board of directors that would build grade school in 1939. the YMCA. “When I saw they didn’t have a gym in the plans, I said, Two years later, Pearl Harbor was attacked. Contreras, again, was ‘What’s a Y without a gym?’” So he started a fund drive to helped in itching to serve, so he tried to join the Marine Corps. raising the money to include a gymnasium.

“I wasn’t heavy enough, so I went back to work at the Drug Store, and He served the community, again, as park district board commissioner tried to fatten myself up with banana splits,” he said with a smile. The for 12 years, during which time the land for Borden field was sold to the day before he turned 17, he left to serve his country as a Marine. district for $1 by the Borden family, and the field itself was created.

The story of his service in Guam and Japan has been recorded for For 60 years he has served with the Good Fellows organization, posterity, and can be heard online from working for a time alongside Mrs. Leydig. the Oral History Collection on the “She was a nice lady,” he said, remembering Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum the woman who had done so much for website, http://www2.illinois.gov/ the people of Dixon, and who had made a alplm/library/collections/oralhistory/ difference in his life.

“When we were kids, we VeteransRemember/worldwarII/Pages/ could go to her and she would give us a slip ContrerasRalph.aspx. of paper so we could get a new pair of shoes. I “A guy from the library came up and learned later that it was Ronald Reagan’s father interviewed me here,” Contreras said. who had fitted me for my shoes.”

Contreras recalled a time when his Contreras has recently concluded productive platoon was pinned down by machine service in Dixon city government. gunners that they couldn’t spot. Someone “I figured 20 years as street commissioner had to run across a rice paddy to draw was enough,” he said.

Ralph Contreras sits in his Dixon fire. “Contreras! Evans! Get across there,” home surrounded by items of his life.

Contreras feels good about what he was able he recalls hearing.

Photo by Alex T. Paschal to accomplish, especially now, in light of the “There wasn’t time to think,” he said. revelations of Rita Crundwell siphoning off “We just got up and ran across. I heard millions of dollars from city coffers. the bullets zinging past my head.

“You have to hand it to the commissioners that we made it through “It’s good if you can hear them. It’s the one you don’t hear that you that time and didn’t fire people,” he said. “It’s a wonder we functioned.” worry about,” he said, with a smile.

Contreras remembers Crundwell sitting in a budget meeting.

Ironically, Contreras and Evans were the only guys from his platoon “She sat there with a straight face and told us we didn’t have any who made it through the war without being killed or injured. money, the day before she bought a motor home,” he lamented.

After the war, he returned to work at Ford Hopkins.

He also has served in the Golden Kiwanis, the Knights of Columbus, “When I started out as a dishwasher, I worked a 60-hour week for The Marine Corp Club, the Moose Club, and the Al Morrison Club. $10, but I moved up to janitor, then moved up to clerk, then moved up You begin to see the pattern that reveals the heart of one who serves as to assistant manager,” Contreras said. He later became manager of the compared to one who only receives services; one who produces over one store until it closed, as did many others of its kind, in the early ’70s. who merely consumes.

The Dixon Developmental Center had a plan to expand its facilities, Ralph Contreras’ life of service has made a difference in the lives of and Contreras was again called to serve. those around him.

“A friend of mine out there called and said they were going to put “He’s just an outstanding friend who would do anything for anybody,” in a new building with a barber shop, a beauty shop, a bank and a new said Dick Dir, owner of Bill and Dick’s Barber Shop in Dixon. “He’s a commissary,” Contreras recalled. “He said he wanted me to come out part of this barber shop. I mean, he’s family! It should be Bill and Dick’s and oversee the building and be commissary supervisor.” and Ralph’s!

He took the job. “I think it was the best decision I ever made.”

“I can’t tell you enough of the good he’s done,” Dir said, clearly Contreras was serving about 5,000 patients at the center. reaching for the words to express the strength of feeling he has for Ralph “I was working at the drug store when it closed, and I was working at Contreras. the commissary when it closed,” he said, referring to the closing of the “Everybody knows him, and everybody speaks well of him,” Dir said. center in 1985 and the opening of the Dixon Correctional Center on “I would call Ralph an icon in this community.” s that site. “I figured it was time to retire.”

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CELEBRATING

50 YEARS Petunia Festival to open with a different beat

BY KAYLA HEIMERMAN SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

Thousands of people packed the downtown to hear the Spin Doctors as the played the Petunia Festival Photos by Alex T. Paschal/Dixon Living

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he signature event of the summer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this year celebrating its 50th anniversary â&#x20AC;&#x201C; kicks off with a fun, funky punch.

The world-beat-infused rock of jam band Rusted Root will roar into town to open Petunia Festival on July 2. The Pittsburgh-based band, famous for its unique fusion of acoustic, rock and world music, will headline four nights of entertainment on two stages at the annual summer party.

Petunia Festival will run July 2 to July 6 in downtown Dixon.

Other headliners include: â&#x20AC;&#x201D; On July 3, Parmalee, a family band that burst onto the country scene with its smash hit â&#x20AC;&#x153;Carolina.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201D; On July 4, Miles Nielsen and the Rusted Hearts, a rock band led by Rockford native Miles Nielsen, son of Cheap Trick guitarist Rick Nielsen. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Also on July 4, Gina Venier and the Gentlemen, a local band that wowed festival-goers last year and also played the Troy, Ohio, stopover on the Munford & Sons Gentlemen of the Road tour in 2013. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; On July 5, The Wood Brothers, an Americana and blues group from Colorado. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Also on July 5, Apache Relay, folk rockers from Nashville, who played the Dixon stopover of the Gentlemen of the Road tour in 2012. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; And finally, on July 5, Sun Stereo, the one-of-a-kind group from Urbana that blends electronic soundscapes, vocal harmonies and a funky horn section; the six-piece band played the downtown stage during the Gentlemen of the

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Road stopover in 2012.

Festival entertainment organizers wanted to take advantage of the amphitheater area along the riverfront, said Josh Albrecht, executive director of Dixon Main Street and a festival board member.

They added a second stage to keep musical performances constant, he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the things we wanted to get away from was dead air, if you will, when acts are changing over on the main stage,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This will provide sort of a continuous stream of entertainment through out the night.â&#x20AC;?

Petunia Festival will remain in its new location downtown; food and entertainment again will be at Heritage Crossing along the riverfront, and the carnival again will be near the high school.

Festival organizers called the move last year â&#x20AC;&#x153;an overwhelming successâ&#x20AC;? in spite of their nervousness about the change, said Dave Johnson, the festivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vice president of operations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And that was something we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take lightly, and something we were all sort of eagerly anticipating how well it would be received,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And it was a phenomenal success. All we heard last year was how great the people liked it down there and what a nice venue it was.â&#x20AC;?

The golden anniversary of the festival promises a gold-star celebration.

The big party will officially open July 2 with a luau, featuring hula dancers, a pig roast and other Hawaiian-themed offerings along the riverfront.

The festival will close July 6 with a drum corps show, a past festival favorite, on the high school football field. Six top drum corps will put on a one-of-a-kind show. Tickets will cost $12 and $20, and will be available at the Dixon Main Street office or online at www.dci.org.

The closing also will include the annual parade â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this year with the theme â&#x20AC;&#x153;50 Years of Festival Magicâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and fireworks. The parade will have a slightly different route because of the city streetscape project.

Throughout Petunia Festival, an exhibit, â&#x20AC;&#x153;50 Years of Festival Memories,â&#x20AC;? will be on display at Loveland Community Building.

Festival staples, including the carnival, pancake breakfast, municipal band concert, sports tournaments and craft show, will round out the offerings.

The Taste Trail, a series of food courts stretched across River Road, will feature past festival favorites as well as local vendors. s

Mark your calendar: The 50 th annual Petunia Festival will be July 2-6 in downtown Dixon.

Go to www.petuniafestival.org, find it on Facebook, or call Dixon Main Street at 815-288-2308 for more information.

Admission will cost $5 a day, or $15 for the whole festival; carnival admission is free, and the only cost is for rides.

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Other upcoming events: Fridays from May 2 - Sept. 26 Musical Fridays; Heritage Crossing, Dixon; Dixon Main Street, www.dixonmainstreet.com or 815-2882308; noon-1 p.m.

Saturdays from May 10 - Oct. 11 Second Saturdays; downtown Dixon; businesses host artists and musicians; www.second-saturdays.com or Facebook; 6-8 p.m.

May 31 Shop Small Saturday; merchants in Dixon, Sterling and Rock Falls; merchants offer promotions throughout the day and specials for shoppers who wear a Sauk Valley Shop Small button; www.saukvalleyshopsmall. com, Facebook or saukvalleyshopsmall@gmail.com.

June 6 -7 Cabelaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s King Kat Tournament; Rock River, Dixon; anglers compete for cash, prizes and a chance to advance to national tournament in October; www.kingkatusa. com, www.discoverdixon.org or 815-284-3496; fishing 6:30 a.m.-3 p.m., weigh-in at 4 p.m. in Page Park.

June 20-22 World War II re-enactment; Elks Page Park, 7883 S. Lowell Park Road, Dixon; re-enactment with display of camps and equipment, mock battles with armored vehicles and machine guns; admission is $5, kids under 10 are free; www.WWII-recreated-dixon.weebly.com or 815-284-1965; sneak peak Friday, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday and 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday.

June 21-22 Bloominâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on the Rock; Heritage Crossing, Dixon; garden walk, flower pot auction, vendors, music and food sponsored by the Rock River Garden Club; Dixon Tourism, 815-284-3496.

June 28 Dixon Beer Festival; Heritage Crossing, Dixon; samples of beer, wine and spirits; food available for purchase; tickets are $20 in advance at Treinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jewelry, The Crystal Cork and Dixon Main Street and get the buyer a complimentary tasting glass and extra tasting tickets; Dixon Main Street, www.dixonmainstreet.com or 815-288-2308; 6-9 p.m.

Caring For Loved Ones Like Family

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Pinky Petunia Kirsten Pitman throws out beads along the parade route during the 49 th annual Petunia Parade in Dixon.

Your Sweet Tooth Is Calling!

Newly Remodeled Private Suites

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July 5 Nuts About Art; John Dixon Park, 515 N. Galena Ave., Dixon; juried art show, music

by Kraig Kenning; The Next Picture Show, 815-285-4924; 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Aug 6-9 Reagan Trail Days; Dixon; beer and wine tasting, ice cream social, community picnic, art sale, rubber duck races, bags tournament, historic trolley rides, activities at the Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home, kids activities, live music, sidewalk sales and more; Dixon Main Street, 815-288-2308, or Facebook.

Aug. 16 Gardenstock Art and Music Festival; Distinctive Gardens, 2020 Lowell Park Road, Dixon; art, music and food; benefits Sinnissippi Center’s youth gardening program; admission is by donation; www.diggersdelight.com or Distinctive Gardens, 815-285-0014; 11 a.m.

Aug. 23-24 Dixon Family Carp Derby; Rock River, Dixon; families compete for prizes; Dixon Tourism, 815-284-3496; 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday and 8 a.m.-noon Sunday.

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Riders are freakin’ out on the Freak Out at Petunia Festival in Dixon.

July 5 Reagan Run 5K; Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home, 816 S. Hennepin Ave., Dixon; register by mail, in person at the Dixon Family YMCA, 110 N. Galena Ave., Dixon, or at www.getmeregistered.com; registration is $20 before June 15, $25 June 15-July 4 or $30 on race day and includes a T-shirt; www.reaganrun.com or 815-288-2308; 8 a.m., kids’ fun run at 7:30 a.m.

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