As the cold sets in and the nights grow long, Tad’s on the Rock keeps the party going indoors. This riverside tavern, at 10 E. Riverside Blvd., in Loves Park, Ill., is known for putting the “rock” in Rock River with live music and an even livelier atmosphere. As the dockside fun subsides, Tad’s Rat Pack Night, held on the first Friday of every month, whisks guests back to the era of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr.
“Reservations aren’t required, but they’re recommended,” says Paula Schwartz, Tad’s co-owner. “The night fills up really fast and we don’t want anyone left out.”
The evening spotlights three favorites from the Rockford music scene. Nicky Bertolino takes the mic to croon Rat Pack hits – local fans may know him as the lead singer of The Stevee Nix, a tribute band celebrating Fleetwood Mac. Jennifer Winterland, one half of the acoustic duo Rollin’ Dubs 815, adds intimate interpretations of era-defining songs while Jim Thomas, a beloved fixture in Rockford’s music community, delivers Rat Pack standards with his signature flair…