Articles & Stories | Rockford IL

Classic Grilled Plates at Hacienda San Jose

If you’ve never been to Hacienda San Jose, it’s time to make the trip down East State Street! When you walk in you are greeted by the fun atmosphere and pleasant team.We all know it’s about the chips and salsa, and if you are a fan of traditional salsas, this is the place for you. You get three salsas of various spice levels and flavors. It was hard to choose a favorite, so be sure to tell us which is yours!Sometimes you just need classic fajitas, so that’s what we started with. The mixed fajitas lets you choose which protein combo you’d like. Treat yourself and get up to three. We went with the classic steak, chicken, and shrimp. These are served sizzling with a variety of cooked peppers, onions, tomatoes, and all the classic fajita sides including rice, beans, fresh vegetables, and cheese. Choose your preferred tortilla and start building your meal! These are big enough to share, or make a perfect leftover meal for the next day.Not feeling fajitas? Try their classic dinners. Steak, chicken, and shrimp grilled to perfection and served with classic vegetables, rice, beans, fresh vegetables, avocado, and tortillas. The whole grilled vegetables are a delicious addition to this dish. You can enjoy this meal many different ways, and each one of them is delicious.Add a margarita and you have a great local meal. Share your favorite dishes with us to try on our next visit!

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Brunch at Fresco

Anderson Japanese Gardens is known for its amazing grounds that transport you to a beautiful Japanese Garden. Tucked inside the Visitor Center is Fresco at the Gardens, a fresh breakfast and lunch restaurant with stunning views and a warm ambiance.Fresco is known for its fresh flavors and spins on classic dishes. We ordered breakfast to start our day off. First up, the Fresco Breakfast. This is perfect for the person who wants it all! Sausage, bacon, potatoes, eggs, and a sweet side of your choice make this a meal fit for champions. The sausage is house blended into thick patties, and the bacon is cooked to that perfect texture. Add 2 eggs your way and a pile of roasted breakfast potatoes and there is no way you are leaving hungry. You get to choose from 1/2 a waffle, pancakes, or French toast to round out this savory feast. The French Toast is thick, fluffy, and why love songs are written. Another popular dish is Fresco’s Egg Benedict. Artisan challah rolls topped with thick cut natural smoked pit ham, organic eggs, and topped with artisan hollandaise sauce. If you are a Benedict fan, you have to dig into Fresco’s version. Served with breakfast potatoes and fresh fruit, this is sure to start your day off right.Enjoy the Garden views, the warmth of the fireplace, and the excellent service at Fresco at the Gardens.

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Sushi at Shogun

When was the last time you visited Shogun? We headed out for a celebration and sushi!Shogun is one of those places where you can never restrain yourself to only order one thing, so wear your stretchy pants and go all in. We started with gyoza, a steamed dumpling filled with meat and veggies. The texture of the gyoza was perfect, and paired with the dipping sauce this dish is the perfect start to any Shogun meal. You can’t go wrong with sushi at Shogun. They have simple flavors, such as the salmon roll, yellowtail roll, etc., to very detailed rolls such as the Rockford Roll and more. Keep in mind that you can request hand rolled for many of the choices! Shogun is known for their fresh sushi and did not disappoint.Even though we sat on the cafe side, we gave a grill recipe a try. The Beef Teriyaki was an impressive assortment of veggies, steak, and rice. Cooked to your preference, the steak is delicious, and treated to a splash of teriyaki sauce to enhance it’s flavor. The fresh vegetables come in a huge portion to help keep you full.Shogun is a great choice for any celebration, or just Wednesday. So go ahead, make today a celebration.

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Breakfast at Magpie

Magpie is an adorable restaurant in the heart of downtown Rockford. Serving breakfast and lunch, there is plenty to explore!We started with breakfast and will definitely be back to try lunch soon. First up, the Reuben 3 Egg Omelet. If you are a fan of corned beef and sauerkraut… run, don’t walk, to enjoy this delectable and unique omelet. The Swiss cheese and French drizzle on top really melted all of the flavors together. The corned beef is house-made, and you’ll never return to anything else. Served with potatoes and toast with house-made jam, you are set to tackle the day.Next, a classic breakfast with a little bit of everything. A bed of potatoes, topped with a single biscuit, gravy, bacon, and eggs. Can’t decide what you want? This is it. Get a taste of all of your savory favorites in one bite. With house-made gravy, you can’t go wrong with this delicious dish.But wait! What if you have a sweet tooth? You order Magpie’s amazing French toast. Thick baguette slices made into delicious French toast are topped with powdered sugar and cinnamon butter. Order their stuffed French toast for an extra dose of sweet infusion. Whatever you decide to order at Magpie’s, add a cup of their delicious coffee and it will be the perfect kickstart to your day. Enjoy!

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Rockford Symphony Orchestra to Present Holiday Pops

The Rockford Symphony Orchestra will be presenting Holiday Pops on Saturday, December 17 at 7:30 PM at the Coronado Performing Arts Center. One of the Rockford area’s most loved holiday traditions will be conducted by locally recognized music director Kevin Jensen. Special guests include the Nielsen Chorale and Rock Valley College’s Chris Brady. The concert will feature holiday classics including The Christmas Song and the Hanukkah Festival Overture along with some fun contemporary pieces such as Elf The Musical Medley and The Toy Trumpet featuring the RSO’s principal trumpet Mark Baldin. And no Holiday Pops is complete without the sing-a-long. Jensen was the conductor and musical director for the Rockford Wind Ensemble starting with its founding in 2002 until retiring in 2022. His 35-year career as a music teacher included Eureka, Batavia, and Loves Park/ Machesney Park (Harlem) high schools. In 2014 he was given the Rockford Mayor’s Arts Award, and in 2015 was recognized as the “Outstanding Alumni” for the School of Music at Illinois State University. While at ISU, he served as drum major of the "Big Red Marching Machine". Jensen is an acclaimed composer with nearly 40 commercially published works and over 200 freelance commissioned works to his credit.Order your tickets today online at www.rockfordsymphony.com, by phone at 815-965-0049, or in person at the RSO box office.

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Meet Iron Salamander - A Full Service Food Truck

Have you been out to Barnstormer Distillery lately? They just welcomed the Iron Salamander, a new food truck, to their hangar experience. What makes Iron Salamander special? They offer a full-service dining experience!The Iron Salamander has a full line up of delicious truck food, including burgers and more, but we tried their dinner specials and were blown away by what came out of a food truck!Off their classic truck menu, we started with the Philly-son, a philly cheese steak eggroll topped with their salamander sauce. We highly recommend you make these a part of your regular rotation! What a fun way to experience a philly, and the sauce was delicious. They came out piping hot. One order is enough to share...but you won't want to.Next up was the main courses off their special dinner menu. The specials rotate, so you get to try new flavors out of this amazing restaurant on wheels. We had the salmon and beef tip plates. The salmon was served on a bed of amazing risotto. The texture was perfect, and the flavor was phenomenal. The salmon was cooked perfectly. If you enjoy salmon, you have to try Iron Salamander.Next up were the beef tips. Served on a generous and delicious bed of mashed potatoes, this perfectly prepared dish was cooked to tender perfection.Paired with fresh asparagus, these meals were not only plated stunningly but immediately had us making plans to return.We had a sneak preview of the chocolate mousse, and let's just say... make sure you save room for dessert. Catch the Iron Salamander at Barnstormer Distillery through December. Follow their pages to find where they are headed next!

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Red Noses Comes to The West Side Show Room

Is there anything to laugh about during a pandemic? In Red Noses, a dark comedy set in Medieval Europe during the Black Death, Father Marcel Flote receives divine inspiration to assemble a troupe of clowns known as “God’s Zanies.” Their mission: to travel around the countryside using slapstick comedy and hilarious antics to lift the spirits of the sick and dying. Using Monty Python-style humor, this troupe of misfits includes a blind juggler, a trembling drummer, a sex-starved nun, two one-legged tap dancers, a stuttering comedian, and a mute acrobat who communicates by ringing bells. Each finds connection and redemption by continuing Christ’s true work.First presented in London in 1985 during the height of the AIDS epidemic, Red Noses spoke to the hopes and fears brought on by that global crisis. For West Side Show Room director Epic Jones, presenting the play in the context of the current pandemic allows it to take on new relevance.“Today, as we are emerging from COVID, we are given the opportunity to see ourselves reflected in this troupe of comically flawed, but endearingly human clowns,” said Jones. “Like many of us, they are survivors who were inspired to seek a higher purpose.”The Red Noses cast includes Carolyn Cadigan (last seen as the Judge in We Are Pussy Riot) as blind juggler Jean Le Grue, Eduardo Galaviz (The Nasty Interesting Man in Eurydice) as Marcel Flote, and Kevin Poole (Putin in We Are Pussy Riot) as surly soldier Brodin. “Red Noses” opens Dec 1, 2022 at The West Side Show Room, 1414 N Main St. in Rockford. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for students on Fridays and Saturdays, $20 for adults and $10 for students on Thursdays and Sundays. The Friday, December 9th performance is free. Donations accepted. To reserve tickets, visit wssr.org.Play:Red Noses by Peter BarnesProducing Organization:The West Side Show RoomLocation:1414 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61103Dates/Times:Dec 1 - 18, 2022Thursdays 7pmFridays 8pmSaturdays 8pmSundays 4pmTickets:Free - $25Information:wssr.org/nosesContact:contact@wssr.org

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Get Baked at Baked Wings

A new wing joint has opened up in Rockford! Once a ghost kitchen inside of The Pomodoro, Baked Wings is now open on Riverside in Loves Park. We wandered in to try the new location and ordered a feast! We tried their “soon to be famous” Garlic White Cheddar cheese curds. They hit the nail n the head with these large cubes of delicious cheese, lightly breaded and fried to perfection. Serious cheese lovers rejoice! Finally, a curd that is more cheese than breading. Available in three flavors, we can’t wait to go back and try them all.Next up, the wings. The baked wing concept is a healthier take on the chicken wing. Combine that with their lineup of flavor rubs and you have a wing that tastes just as sinful as its fried and dunked brother but packs a lighter punch. They have 13 flavor rubs to choose from, and 13 dunking sauces… to really give you the freedom to explore any flavor profile you desire.We tried the Chili Lime, Garlic Parmesan, and Buffalo Hot rubs. Each spice rub has its own flavor profile. The heat really came through on the Buffalo Hot, and the Garlic Parmesan makes your mouth just melt. Add some fried to your order, and you’re all set.With an expanded menu, there is definitely something for everyone at Baked Wings. You can get full service at the bar, or order at the counter and take a seat in the main dining area. Check out Baked Wings and tell us your favorite wing flavor!

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Joffrey Ballet Dancers Lead Rockford’s Nutcracker Performance

The Nutcracker tradition in Rockford continues this year with one performance on December 3 at 3:00 p.m. at the Coronado Performing Arts Center. Lucas Segovia and Cary Marie Gary are the Principal Dancers in this combined performance by The Rockford Dance Company and the Rockford Symphony Orchestra. Originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Segovia, who is also the choreographer of the Rockford Nutcracker, joined Ballet Argentino at the age of 19 as a Soloist Dancer. Segovia has been a member of The Washington Ballet, Morphoses/The Wheeldon Company and The Joffrey Ballet in Chicago.Gary received her formal ballet training at International Ballet Academy in Greer, South Carolina and prior to joining The Joffrey Ballet, she danced with American Ballet Theatre’s ABT II and was an apprentice with Orlando Ballet. She has won many awards both nationally and internationally. Kevin Jensen will be the Music Director for this performance. Jensen was the conductor and musical director for the Rockford Wind Ensemble starting with its founding in 2002 until retiring in 2022. His 35-year career as a music teacher included Eureka, Batavia, and Loves Park/ Machesney Park (Harlem) high schools. In 2014 he was given the Rockford Mayor’s Arts Award, and in 2015 was recognized as the “Outstanding Alumni” for the School of Music at Illinois State University. While at ISU, he served as drum major of the "Big Red Marching Machine". Jensen is an acclaimed composer with nearly forty commercially published works and over two hundred freelance commissioned works to his credit.There is no reason to travel any further than Rockford to experience The Nutcracker at its best! Order your tickets today online at www.rockfordsymphony.com

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Start Your Morning at Fresh Start Cafe

Sometimes, you just need a hearty breakfast. Fresh Start Cafe on Forest Hills Road will fuel you up for whatever is coming your way! First things first, you gotta try the coffee. Always fresh, and always hot, the coffee at Fresh Start Cafe is delicious. If you like it fancy, they have you covered with a cafe menu. We tried to stick with the classics! You can't go wrong with biscuits and gravy or a classic breakfast skillet. A hearty plate with two biscuits layered in thick sausage gravy is a great place to start. Served with two eggs your style, this meal is a stunning classic. The sausage gravy is excellent. The flavors are excellent and it'll warm you up during this chilly season.The skillet menu has something for everyone. We opted for the corn beef hash skillet. We know, we know, corn beef hash can be polarizing... but Frest Start Cafe serves it up perfectly. The skillets are loaded with potatoes, two eggs your style, meat, veggies, and cheese. Served with two adorably mini pancakes, this is the perfect savory and sweet combo to keep you coming back.Start your next day at Fresh Start Cafe!

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Community Survey: Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan

Region 1 Planning Council is asking the public to complete a survey to help update the Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan for the Rockford Metropolitan Area. The survey will guide recommendations for improving sidewalks, intersections, and streets in order to make it easier for all residents, workers, and visitors to bike and walk around the region. Additionally, the survey will help identify focus areas and facilities that are comfortable and uncomfortable to use, why walking or bicycling may be used throughout the region, and what improvements should be prioritized. The survey can be found in both English and Spanish at: www.r1planning.orgAbout the PlanThe purpose of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan is to promote a safe and efficient transportation network for people that provides a balanced multi-modal system minimizing costs and impacts to the taxpayer, society and the environment. The Plan will address the development of a region-wide system of on-street bicycle and pedestrian facilities to connect with existing shared use path facilities, existing and planned public transportation services and provide model development regulations and ordinances to promote and encourage bicycle- and pedestrian-friendly growth in the Rockford region. Region 1 Planning Council, is a special-purpose, regional government agency. Regional councils are public organizations comprised of local elected officials that promote collaboration among local governments, working across the jurisdictional silos of states, counties, and municipalities. For more information, visit www.r1planning.org.

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Steak and Seafood at Stone Eagle Tavern

Many folks don't realize that Stone Eagle Tavern is locally owned and operated! They have fresh seafood and locally sourced steaks, making this a delicious destination on East State Street. We wandered in to try Stone Eagle Tavern and with a menu including wood fired pizza, fresh seafood, hand cut steaks, and more... we didn't know where to start! The Seafood Augratin and the steaks came highly recommended by the amazing staff, so we dug in. The Seafood Augratin can only be described as the best thing that has ever happened to me. Fresh seafood medley in a cheesy augratin sauce and baked with a crisp breading top simply melts in your mouth. This is a very rich dish, but so completely amazing. The menu described it as a masterpiece, and we agree. Next up was a New York Strip, cooked to your preferred temperature and so many add-on options available. They offer a garlic crust, parmesan crust, mushrooms, onions, and more! Personalize your steak just the way you want it. We tried the parmesan crust because cheese makes everything better. The steak was perfectly cooked and served on a warm skillet. Stone Eagle gets their steaks from Eickman's, so you know it was delicious, tender, and packed with flavor. You get to select delicious sides along the way, and we highly recommend the brussel sprouts, if green is your thing. They were deliciously prepared in a way that makes you forget you're eating vegetables. The garlic mashed potatoes added that classic vibe to the steak. If you have room, they will bring by a hard to say no to dessert platter. Life is short, order dessert. We hope you check out Stone Eagle Tavern for your next night out, or brunch with friends and family!

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A Great Meal at Crazy Times Pub

Slightly off the main path of 251, you'll find Crazy Times Pub & Grub. This is your classic neighborhood bar, a place to meet your friends for a great drink at their expansive bar. However, when they offer you a menu... don't pass up the opportunity to dig into the crazy good food!We arrived on a Wednesday night, and were pleasantly surprised to experience wing Wednesday at Crazy Times Pub & Grub. We figured that was an excellent start to our meal. We choose the buffalo hot, and the parmesan garlic. The wings were hot, flavorful, falling off the bone, and dripping in delicious sauce. The buffalo had the perfect balance of heat and flavor, letting you enjoy both parts of this traditional selection. If things get too heated, we always recommend a solid parmesan garlic. It takes the heat off but packs a delicious flavor punch. The menu options have something for everyone! We had a hard time deciding which to try (which mostly means we can't wait to go back and try more!), but finally landed on the Italian beef sandwich and the Texas patty melt. With the Italian beef, you have customization options. Want to add peppers, giardiniera, cheese, onions, etc? Have at it! Make it your own. Served on a hoagie bun, this sandwich is sturdy enough to withstand dipping into the au jus without falling apart. The Italian beef is piled high, and was delicious to the last bite.The texas patty melt features Pepper Jack Cheese, Grilled Onions,Bacon, BBQ Sauce on Texas Toast. As a patty melt fan, I feel it is my duty to report on patty melts of the area and this is one that I will return to regularly. The thick texas toast was grilled to perfection, and there is something savoringly sweet about bacon and bbq as a pair. You get to pick your burger temperature (also a plus in my book), and they nailed the cook. We look forward to our next trip to Crazy Times Pub & Grub and hope to see you there, Rockford!

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Classic Dishes at Irish Rose Saloon

Irish Rose Saloon in downtown Rockford is an amazing destination for local foodies. They are well known for using the freshest ingredients and staying preservative-free. Everything you order is made from scratch and they have a fresh board menu to offer you something new every time you visit. So you know we had to visit and try it for ourselves.We knew we had to order a few things off of the fresh menu. These items that made in limited quantities. When it's gone, it's gone! We tried the Full Irish Breakfast and the Lamb Chops.The Full Irish Breakfast featured a trio of meats, 2 eggs, 2 heart slices of tomato, and beans. Nothing beats the quality that Irish Rose brings to the table, and that really showed in this dish. The banger had stunning flavor, and the bacon was some of the best we've had. This classic dish is a crowd pleaser!The lamb chops came with a vegetable medley that was seasonally perfect. It's the type of side that warms your soul. The chops themselves were cooked with a delicious outer char, and a lovely flavor. Served with a rice medley, this hearty dish won't leave you hungry.If nothing on the fresh board speaks to you, you can look to their classic pub menu to order any of their burgers, flatbreads, and more that are offered daily. The classic burger is a crowd pleaser for all ages.Stop into Irish Rose Saloon for your next dining adventure, and make sure to check out the fresh board!

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Local Filmmakers Invited to Submit Short Films for Inaugural 815HORTS

As part of a new program to spotlight the great work of the local creative community, filmmakers are invited to submit short films for 815HORTS. The inaugural edition of 815HORTS, which celebrates the fine art of short film cinematography by featuring locally produced shorts, is scheduled for Saturday, December 10, 2022, at Rockford Public Library’s Nordlof Center. CALL FOR 815HORTS GUIDELINES 815HORTS Submissions: Local filmmakers are encouraged to submit one (1) free submission via YouTube or Vimeo link to Nick@PlusSevenCompany.com by Friday, November 11, 2022. All genres (fiction, nonfiction, documentary, experimental, animation, music video, other short film/video) are welcomed. Submitted filmmakers grant legal authority to 815HORTS to use all music, images, clips and film content for 815HORTS and promotional use on any medium. If selected for screening by the 815HORTS Jury, requested file formats from 815HORTS will include Blu Ray and/or high quality (1080p) .MP4. 815HORTS reserves right to amend guidelines, reschedule and/or cancel the program at any time. 815HORTS may be featured as a showcase or competition format. 815HORTS Jury Selection Criteria: 1. Story (quality of writing, plot, performances, etc.) 2. Impact (audience engagement, thought provoking, etc.); 3. Production (editing, sound, lighting, scenery/props, etc.) In addition to showcasing local shorts in the J.R. Sullivan Theater, 815HORTS will be followed immediately by a 5HORT Party with a DJ, beverages and snacks in the RPL Nordlof Center lobby. After the 5HORT Party, we are thrilled to also share that the 2022 Sundance Film Festival Short Film Tour will be screened in the Theater.

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Screw City Tacos at Cantina Taco

Taco lovers, rejoice! This week we ventured to Cantina Taco to try their tacos. Home of the Screw City Taco, we knew this would be a delicious trip.Cantina Taco has two locations, one in the heart of downtown, and one on E. Riverside Blvd to make getting your taco cravings resolved as easy as possible. You've probably also seen their food truck at City Market and other outdoor events all over town. Head to your nearest location and order tacos!We had to try their Screw City Taco, a fried flour tortilla stuffed with rice, your choice of meat, corn, sour cream, and queso. We are a house divided on the best protein for the Screw City Taco. Help us decide, are you team chicken, team pork, or team veggie? The fried tortilla immediately set this taco apart. Its hearty toppings make this the perfect lunch when you need to power through your day. Cantina Taco makes amazing queso...and we fully support getting a little extra on the side.Next up, Cantina Taco's birria tacos. Nothing is better than a food that you can dip into more food. Birria is a spiced beef that simmers in a stew of flavors until the meat is incredibly tender. This is a simple taco, birria, cheese, and onion... but the flavor packs a punch. Dip the taco in the stew for an extra flavor boost, and add house made hot sauces for an extra kick. You won't regret ordering these, we promise!Cantina Taco offers many other menu options including bowls, burritos, and more. Dine in or carry out and make the whole family happy.

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Your Vote Is Your Voice

Election Day, November 8 will be upon us very quickly. This will give citizens an important opportunity to use their voice and cast their vote to help determine who will guide our state, country, and local communities. Unfortunately, too few voters take the time to participate in our democracy. During our last primary election on June 28, only 17% of registered voters in Rockford cast a ballot, while a mere 22.5 % of voters in Winnebago county voted; Boone county voters did somewhat better with 26% going to the polls. If you don’t vote, you are allowing someone else to make important decisions for you.To address this very low turnout, many local organizations including League of Women Voters of Greater Rockford, American Association of University Women (AAUW), NAACP, Women’s March Rockford and many other non partisan, not for profit organizations joined together to form a focused GET OUT THE VOTE 815 effort. The idea of this initiative is to put tools in the hands of voters to help increase the likelihood of more voters going to the polls. We registered well over 100 prospective voters including first time voters in high schools. Meet and Greets to introduce candidates to their constituents have been held in Rockford, Winnebago and Boone counties. Communities were introduced to the IllinoisVoterGuide.org, a one-stop on-line location to provide everyone with information on how, when, and where to vote and who is on the ballot. Voting materials are available in both English and Spanish and IllinoisVoterGuide.org can be accessed in both languages.There is still time to vote. Please join us: Make a plan to vote Urge your friends, families, co-workers and colleagues to register to vote and vote. You can vote early until Nov. 7 Vote on Election Day, Nov. 8 Attend Meet and Greets to talk with your candidates for national, state and local elections. Contact us through our website: www.govote815.org or through our Facebook group-Go Vote 815.Let’s make this a banner year for voter participation. Remember “YOUR VOTE IS YOUR VOICE”.Article by Faye Marcus, GOTV 815

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Dinner at Joe's Casa Di Amici

If you haven't been to Joe's Casa Di Amici off Riverside, it's time for your first experience. We headed out for dinner and were not disappointed. Personally, I love home-to-restaurant renovations. The cozy room-to-room seating is a unique ambiance that we love to see. Once seated, we were greeted and immediately ordered their famous garlic bread and special salad. The bread is a classic Italian sesame loaf, coated in garlic butter and parmesan cheese. This is a do not miss at Joe's Casa Di Amici. A special salad is always a good choice. This one features olives, peppers, sausage, eggs, and more. The oil and vinegar dressing has a nice zing to it. Joe's Casa Di Amici is known for their pasta and steak, so of course, we had to try them for ourselves. We ordered the meat tortellini and the steak special of the evening, an 8 oz filet. The filet comes with either a baked potato or a side of pasta. The pasta was phenomenal. Large tortellini topped with a delicious sauce and meatball plated in a generous portion. This dish was simple, but truly delicious. The filet was amazing. I like my steak rare, and for all my rare fans out there... you know how hard it is to get that perfect cook. I was blown away by the beautiful Pittsburgh preparation, charred on the outside but rare on the inside. The flavor was buttery and delicious, and the meat just melted in your mouth. This is definitely a steak that will keep me coming back. What dish is your favorite at Joe's Casa Di Amici?

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Straight to The Top

We took advantage of the warm afternoons still honoring us with its presence and headed straight to The Top for a dinner with a view.The Top is known for its fun cocktail list, small plates, and a one of a kind view. After ordering a couple drinks (the Peaches Sangria will convince you it's still summer), we decided on a few plates. We selected Crab Arancini, Tuna Nachos, and Caribbean Pork.We dug right into the Tuna Nachos, a huge pile of wonton chips loaded with toppings: Rare Ahi Tuna, Black Bean & Corn Salsa, Avocado, Pickled Onions & Jalapenos, and Spicy Aioli. The Ahi Tuna was beautifully prepared, and the spicy kick of the aioli was a delightful pairing. The wonton chips were a nice hardy vessel for these heavy toppings. This is a big shareable, so come hungry!Next up, the Caribbean Pork: Slow-Cooked Salsa Verde Pork, Pineapple Salsa, Grilled Polenta Cake. The polenta cake was perfectly prepared! Hearty enough to support the piled-high pork, these are a shareable you may end up wanting to keep to yourself. The pineapple salsa was fresh and light, and truly brought out the flavors in the pork.Last, but certainly not least... the Crab Arancini: 4 Crispy Fried Sicilian Rice Balls, Surimi Crab, Parmesan, Seasoned Panko Crumbs. Served with the spicy aioli and a light cucumber sauce, we couldn't get enough. The crunchy exterior gives way to the crab stuffed interior. You can see and taste the individual flavors. We ended up being a house divided in between the spicy aioli and the cucumber sauce. Order these and weigh in on the great sauce debate.Grab your friends and head on down for your own feast of shareables. Cozy up to the fires on the outdoor patio, or hang inside to enjoy modern day temperature control. Enjoy!

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Vintage Shop Hop

Thousands of shoppers will converge on northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin once again for the fall edition of the popular Vintage Shop Hop™ on Friday and Saturday, October 7 & 8, 2022. The event is a self-guided road trip for vintage and antique lovers in the northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin region to satisfy their ‘vintage’ addiction and support small businesses at the same time. Typically, between 350 to 400 locally owned vintage shops, antique malls, women’s boutiques, occasional and pop-up shops, home décor, upscale consignment shops, and vintage barn sales in the two-state region participate in this one-of-a-kind event.The event was destined to grow quickly. Between the shop owners looking for a unique, low-cost way to promote not only their shop but their town too, and then add in shoppers who are excited to have a list of hundreds of fun shops dropped in their lap, you can’t hold them back!” laughed Ann Campos, founder of the event. The event stretches across two states from the Mississippi Riveron the west to Lake Michigan on the east, goes north to Stevens Point & Green Bay in Wisconsin, and south to I-80 in Illinois.Each shop has an “in-store” promotion for the weekend, and many shops go miles beyond just complimentary refreshments (like mimosas and dessert treats). “We encourage the shops to create a day unlike the other 363 days of the year,” say Campos. As a result, shoppers will find fun promotions like “pop a balloon” or “spin the wheel” to determine their discount, door prizes, meet-the-maker, paint demos, live music, food trucks, and free swag bags just for stopping in. Others create punch card promotions to get people moving around their region, hire live music and invite food trucks to park in their lots. All shops will be ready and waiting to greet new faces to their store and provide the shoppers with the best in customer service. “The participating shop owners are very passionate about the history of their antiques as well as their buildings. In order to compete with big box stores, small business owners have to be creative in their marketing efforts and work extra hard to get noticed,” Campos said. “I’m just happy I can help them out by using my experience to bring customers to their doorstep with this fun shopping event. To my knowledge, it’s the biggest event of its kind in the Midwest.” Many of the shops are set in historic and unique buildings, in downtowns, villages, and the countryside brimming with history which sets them apart from their competitors in big shopping malls. For example, shoppers who step into Vintique Junque in Monroe, Wisconsin can find a sweet shop filled with antiques, vintage, recycled goods, and fun junk housed in a historic 1880s coal store that supplied the downtown square with coal. Or shoppers can experience ‘out of the box' shopping for on-trend vintage items and home décor inside a gorgeous 1882 Methodist church, complete with steeple, at The Half Full Nest in West Dundee, Illinois. Or, explore Starline Excursion Market in Harvard, Illinois tucked inside a renovated, ivy-covered farm equipment factory built in 1888. These are just a few examples of shops located inside unique structures making the shopping experience memorable.Road trip planning for the Vintage Shop Hop is made easy with the interactive Google Map and Master List of Shops. The Google Map includes all shop details that can be accessed on mobile devices while shoppers are traveling the area. The list and map are both found on the event’s blog page 24/7/365 and can be printed off www.vintageshophop.blogspot.com or follow the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/VintageShopHopEvent. A direct link to the interactive Google Map is here: https://bit.ly/VintageShopHopMap_Oct2022

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Local Man Works to Revitalize Broadway

It's no secret that the past few years have been hard on small businesses, with some parts of the city getting hit harder than others. In the wake of COVID and inflation there are those within our community that are stepping up. Isidro Barrios is one of those people.After spending 40 years as a union carpenter, Isidro and his wife, Melanie, opened a community center inside of their neighborhood. El Barrio is located at 1516 Broadway and aims to be a resource for the businesses and residents of the Broadway region. Isidro referenced his 13 grandbabies as motivation for the passion he has for his community. And his first goal is to help re-establish the Broadway corridor as a thriving business community.Between 11th Street and Kishwaukee Broadway has over 50 available storefronts and through a combination of efforts Isidro aims at reducing that number. One of these efforts is a Business Opportunity Event for the 11th Ward.This event is being hosted at El Barrio, 1516 Broadway, on Friday, September 30th, from 5:00 to 8:00pm. The event hosts multiple opportunities for both existing businesses and those wishing to start a business. There will be resources and information for new and existing businesses, information on solar energy and the Illinois Shines Program, as well as a host of special guests.State Representative Dave Vella, State Representative Maurice West, 11th Ward Alderman Tuffy Quinonez, County Chairman Joe Chiarelli, and County Board Jaime Salgado will all be in attendance.If you have a passion for the Broadway corridor of our city, are wanting to start a business and are looking for a place to open, or just want to connect with our local leadership, then head on over to El Barrio this Friday night.You can RSVP at elbarrio@myyahoo.com

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A Fiesta at Alvarez Mexican Restaurant

We ventured to Alvarez Mexican Restaurant to try their famous margaritas and eat our weight in chips! As you do…We were warmly greeted with chips and salsa, and decided to try the Quest Fundido, a fondue with chorizo brought with even more chips (muahahaha). This is a HUGE appetizer, we dug right in to the warm cheese and chorizo medley. The flavor was out of the world and we will definitely order this again… but bring many many more friends, hahaha.Acting like we hadn’t completely filled up on chips, we then sampled the Enchiladas en Mole (three corn tortillas in a rich poblano mole sauce with cheese and sour cream) and the Fajita Lover (sizzling strips of steak, chicken, & shrimp, topped with spanish onions, slices of tender bell pepper & pico de gallo).I have never tried mole sauce, so this was a first for me! The sweetness was a unique contrast to the enchilada and I now see why folks love this stuff. It had almost a nutty flavor, and that pairing was a fun surprise.The fajita was a masterpiece of a medley. Everything was grilled to perfection (no tough shrimp here!) and the meat to vegetable ratio was perfect. I’m a big fan of build your own meals, so fajitas really cater to my desire to get my hands dirty. I was happily surprised with the generous dollops of sour cream and guacamole as well.I almost forgot the margaritas! With a strong blend of many liquors, these are described as “killer” on the menu, and I have to agree with them! Not too sweet, they really nailed the balance. Drink responsibly!Check out Alvarez for your next chip binge!

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A Perfect Pour at Hope & Anchor

In the mood for some English Pub comfort food? Rockford’s got that. Travel down 251 to find Hope & Anchor, an English Pub with authentic dishes right in your backyardWhen you walk in the moody atmosphere greets you and you know this place has stories. Take a seat at the bar, order the perfectly poured Guinness and settle in for tales of spooky events and history.Ready for some grub? They serve authentic recipes including fish & chips, bangers & mash, and cottage pie. We tried the fish & chips first.I’m not typically a fan of tartar sauce (let the tar and feathering begin), but in the spirit of the full experience, I sampled Hope & Anchor’s. I can honestly say that I loved it! It paired beautifully with the beer batter fried cod. The menu says “generous portion”, and they aren’t kidding. Come hungry! Served with thick cut English chips and slaw, this is a meal that is certain to fill you up. The fish was fresh and flaky, and the crust was crisp and thick. I definitely recommend this English classic.Next up was the cottage pie, a medley of simmered beef, onions, carrots, and mushrooms topped with mashed potatoes. The presentation of this dish was beautiful, and the flavor was all comfort. This hearty dish will warm your whole soul, while filling you up. The gravy was perfection, taking this simple dish to the next level.We can’t wait to go back and dig into some more dishes, and their dessert menu! What’s your favorite dish at Hope & Anchor?

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Portraits in the Garden

Anderson Japanese Gardens provides an extraordinary backdrop for individual and small group portraits. Wednesdays, October 5 through October 19, 2022, during special afternoon hours, Anderson Japanese Gardens will waive photography sitting fees and allow guests and photographers access to the Gardens for the price of regular admission.Anderson Japanese Gardens will waive the special use Garden rental fee for individual, small group, and special occasion photography, during its third annual Portraits in the Gardens. Special use dates and hours will be Wednesdays, October 5 through October 12, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., and October 19, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.Limited Portraits in the Gardens dates and hours offer an opportunity for photographers to utilize the vibrant fall foliage while still preserving the tranquility and views of the gardens for guests who attend during regular business hours.Per person admission for Portraits in the Gardens is the price of regular individual Gardens admission. Homecoming groups, wedding parties, and commercial photography sessions will not be permitted. Photographers and guests are asked to always remain on pathways and grassy turf areas, not disturb or remove plants, not block pathways, not climb trees or boulders, not enter water areas or step into garden beds. Drone aerial photography and tripods are not permitted.

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Positive News, Stories, & Rockford Buzz Polls

Page 5 | Positive Stories & Articles | Rockford IL

Classic Grilled Plates at Hacienda San Jose

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Classic Grilled Plates at Hacienda San Jose

Brunch at Fresco

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Brunch at Fresco

Sushi at Shogun

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Sushi at Shogun

Breakfast at Magpie

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Breakfast at Magpie

Rockford Symphony Orchestra to Present Holiday Pops

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Rockford Symphony Orchestra to Present Holiday Pops

Meet Iron Salamander - A Full Service Food Truck

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Meet Iron Salamander - A Full Service Food Truck

Red Noses Comes to The West Side Show Room

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Red Noses Comes to The West Side Show Room

Get Baked at Baked Wings

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Get Baked at Baked Wings

Joffrey Ballet Dancers Lead Rockford’s Nutcracker Performance

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Joffrey Ballet Dancers Lead Rockford’s Nutcracker Performance

Start Your Morning at Fresh Start Cafe

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Start Your Morning at Fresh Start Cafe

Community Survey: Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan

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Community Survey: Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan

Steak and Seafood at Stone Eagle Tavern

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Steak and Seafood at Stone Eagle Tavern

A Great Meal at Crazy Times Pub

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A Great Meal at Crazy Times Pub

Classic Dishes at Irish Rose Saloon

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Classic Dishes at Irish Rose Saloon

Local Filmmakers Invited to Submit Short Films for Inaugural 815HORTS

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Local Filmmakers Invited to Submit Short Films for Inaugural 815HORTS

Screw City Tacos at Cantina Taco

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Screw City Tacos at Cantina Taco

Your Vote Is Your Voice

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Your Vote Is Your Voice

Dinner at Joe's Casa Di Amici

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Dinner at Joe's Casa Di Amici

Straight to The Top

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Straight to The Top

Vintage Shop Hop

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Vintage Shop Hop

Local Man Works to Revitalize Broadway

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Local Man Works to Revitalize Broadway

A Fiesta at Alvarez Mexican Restaurant

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A Fiesta at Alvarez Mexican Restaurant

A Perfect Pour at Hope & Anchor

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A Perfect Pour at Hope & Anchor

Portraits in the Garden

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Portraits in the Garden

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