Smart Living Weekly - January 28, 2015

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Right in Our Region

Visit Beloit BIFF Weekend Getaway

By Karla Nagy, associate editor

T

he people of Beloit always roll out the red carpet for those attending the annual Beloit International Film Festival (BIFF), this year scheduled for Feb. 20-March 1.

For 2015, BIFF’s 10th anniversary, the Visit Beloit BIFF Weekend Getaway means that somebody will get a truly royal treatment.

The winner receives a two-night stay at

Beloit’s Ironworks Hotel, a $100 gift card for Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint, and two Golden Passes to the fest, for Feb. 20-21.

“We’ve always worked closely with BIFF, to draw people to the fest,” says Erin Clausen, director of marketing for Visit Beloit. “We wanted to do something special to mark the 10th anniversary. A giveaway seemed perfect.”

Continued on p. 20

• Get All the SAVINGS You Deserve from Local Businesses

Men: Reclaim Your Bathroom Space • RHS’s New Linear Accelerator • Cold Weather Pet Tips Buying the Right Fur • Versatile, Nutritious Quinoa • Restaurant of the Week: Pearl Bistro

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 20 Visit Beloit Sponsors BIFF Weekend Getaway Your Home ................................................... ..... 11 Men: Reclaim Your Bathroom Space Inspiration & Worship ...................................... 12 On Friendship Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Quinoa: The Perfect Food Your Style ......................................................... 17 What You Need to Know About Buying a Fur Your Health ............................................. .......... 25 Advice for Controlling Your Blood Sugar Your Health ............................................. .......... 26 Cancer Center of RHS Gets Linear Accelerator Your Fun .................................................... ........ 27 Restaurant of the Week ................................... 29 Pearl Bistro Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 29 Tips ........................................................... ......... 31 Cold Weather Tips for Pet Owners Your Money .............................................. ......... 33 5 Financial Fitness Tips for the New Year

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes Executive Editor Janine Pumilia

Managing Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Associate Editor/Special Projects Editor Karla Nagy Senior Staff Writer/Promotions Coordinator Paul Anthony Arco Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Ryan General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes General Manager/Northwest Business Magazine Dave Marino Account Executive Brian Hughes Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Website www.NWQSmartLiving.com Published by Hughes Media Corp.

728 N. Prospect St., Rockford, IL, 61107 (815) 316-2300, Fax: (815) 316-2301 lhughes@northwestquarterly.com Smart Living Weekly.

Copyright 2014 by Hughes Media Corp., 728 N. Prospect St., Rockford, IL, 61107. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

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Three Cheers for 10 Years of BIFF

A

t Northwest Quarterly Magazine, we recently celebrated our 10th anniversary with a special issue that looked back at a decade’s worth of positive articles written about our region. In that retrospective, another 10-year-old figured prominently: The Beloit International Film Festival (BIFF).

What a fantastically fun, positive and exciting addition to our region this festival has turned out to be. And we’ve been telling you all about it ever since it was just a newborn.

This year is no exception. Here, this week and next week, our own Karla Nagy (who holds a master’s in film study) provides a run-down on the 10-day event, from the free Opening Night Block Party on Feb. 20, complete with ice sculpting, fire breathers and lots of special activities, to the final film screened on March 1. More than 100 films will be shown on the first weekend alone.

This week Karla details the Visit Beloit BIFF Weekend Getaway, a special way to recognize the 10-year milestone of the festival.

It’s been a joy for us to witness not only the the growth and success of this festival but also the success of the Beloit area as a whole.

What a well-focused community Beloit is, as it faithfully sticks to the plan it mapped out so many years ago with broad community input. Step by step, great things are happening.

On most Saturday mornings in summer and fall, you’ll find me hanging out with my husband at the Beloit Farmers Market, squeezing melons, sniffing fresh herbs and wandering through fun new shops in Beloit’s downtown. We love the good vibes and are happy to see that same kind of energy taking root in our hometown of Rockford.

On behalf of Smart Living Weekly and Northwest Quarterly Magazine, a hearty congratulations to BIFF organizers and the entire Beloit community! ❚ Janine Pumilia Executive Editor Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

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Helping Men to Reclaim Bathroom Space M

ost couples agree that women get the majority of space in the bathroom. Just one-third is set aside for men, according to the 2014 U.S. Dove Men+Care Hair Survey, and they often use their partner’s products rather than their own. Dove Men+Care, which offers hair care products made specifically for men, has partnered with home improvement duo Mark and Theresa Clement, to offer some helpful tips for sharing a bathroom with your partner:

• Identify needs. “Talk about what you’re looking for,” says Mark. “Do you prefer the top or bottom shelf? Speak up. It can be helpful to organize space together.”

• Compromise. Some need more space in the cabinet, others in the shower. Theresa advises: “Try to be flexible with your partner’s requests. Do your best to divide space according to your needs, and always respect your partner’s space.”

• Delineate the spaces. Some sort of structure will remind each of you which area is yours. The Clements love “his-and-hers” shelves or shower caddies, and recommend customized drawers or cabinet space if you’re looking to invest in your home.

Mark & Theresa Clement • Stock products for both of you.

About nine in 10 men have borrowed their partners’ products, according to the survey, but many women wish they didn’t. End the “sharing” – buy a product he likes, such as Aqua Impact Shampoo from Dove Men+Care Hair, and you can keep yours all to yourself.

• Decorate for both of you. Putting your own stamp on the area is important. “Don’t forget about decorations,” Theresa says.

“Moving in together means creating a space for his and her tastes. Explore the colors and themes each of you prefers and find a way to combine them for a unique style.”

Enjoy a happy shared bathroom, with the full range of Dove Men+Care products, and these great tips from Mark & Theresa. ❚ Source: Brandpoint

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I  W

On Friendship W

hen it comes down to it, being a good friend is one of the noblest ways we can spend our time. And friendship takes effort.

“A man that has friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother,” says Proverbs 18:24.

This inspiring poem by Grace Stricker Dawson offers insight on the value of active friendship.

To a Friend

You enterend my life in a casual way, And saw at a glance what I needed; There were others who passed me or met me each day, But never a one of them heeded.

Perhaps you were thinking of others folks more, Or chance simply seemed to decry it; I know there were many such chances before, But the others–well, they didn’t see it.

You said just the thing that I wished you would say, And you made me believe that you meant it; I held up my head in the old gallant way, And resolved you should never repent it.

There are times when encouragement means such a lot, And a word is enough to convey it; There were others who could of, as easy as not – But, just the same, they didn’t say it.

There may have been someone who could have done more To help me along, though I doubt it; What I needed was cheering, and always before They had let me plod onward without it.

You helped to refashion the dream of my heart, And made me turn eagerly to it; There were others who might have (I question that part)– But, after all, they didn’t do it! ❚ 12

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Quinoa: Add This Super Food to Your Meals H

igh in protein and fiber, low in sodium and saturated fat, quinoa (KEENwah) is versatile and tasty. Light and fluffy but very filling, quinoa can be used in place of rice, couscous and pasta in recipes.

It’s among the nutrient-rich class of foods, a three-tier system devised by nutritionist and author Joel Fuhrman, MD. The foods in the first class are rich in all of the nutrients your body needs, and contain no substances your body doesn’t need.

With its many healthy properties, quinoa is as close to a super food as it comes.

Quinoa has been found to possess antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, valuable amounts of heart-healthy fats, and best of all, boiling, simmering and steaming don’t diminish its nutritional value. It’s also a healthy option for gluten-free diets.

Grown in South America, high in the Andes, quinoa is an ancient grain that was sacred to the Incas. The quinoa harvest in March is celebrated with a two-day Harvest Festival attended by representatives from 4,000 family farms.

Quinoa remains unfamiliar to many, especially when it comes to its preparation and uses. Given the remarkable nature of this easily-prepared, nutrient-rich food, once people taste it, they’re sure to make it a part of their regular diet. Its subtle, nutty flavor marries well with many other foods.

Cooking tips: Rinse well before cooking; quinoa has a natural bitter coating that fends off pests and makes the use of chemical pesticides unnecessary. Ready in just 15 minutes, you can tell quinoa is done when the white germ of the kernel is visible. Fluff with a fork just before serving.

This recipe, from Dr. Emmett Blahnik, Next Level Health, is a great introduction to the culinary delights of this super food. ❚ Emmett Blahnik, owner of Next Level Health, 2835 McFarland Road, Rockford, is a doctor of chiropractic and a certified nutrition counselor, as well as speaker, author and radio show host.

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Chicken & Broccoli Quinoa Casserole Ingredients 1 2½ 12 4½ 1 ½ 2 1 2 12 ⅓

lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed cups quinoa (rinsed) oz. fresh broccoli florets cup chicken broth cup coconut milk cup coconut flour Tb. pesto tsp. Sea Salt cups fresh organic spinach oz. mozzarella cup parmesan cheese

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Generously grease a 9×13 baking dish (I prefer coconut oil) and add quinoa. Steam broccoli florets for 4-5 minutes. Set aside.

In a saucepan, bring the broth, pesto, salt and ½ cup coconut milk to a boil. In a separate bowl, whisk the remaining coconut milk and coconut flour; add to boiling liquid and whisk until a smooth creamy sauce forms. Add to the quinoa, then the spinach. Top with chicken cubes. Add parmesan and ¾ of mozzarella. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes.

Remove casserole, mix in broccoli. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and bake for 5 minutes or until cheese melts. Sprinkle with more parmesan cheese if desired. I place my casserole under the broiler until golden-brown, 2-3 minutes. Serve warm with a smile!

From the Kitchen of: Dr. Emmett Blahnik, Next Level Health Cooperative. Find more nutrition information and healthy recipes at nextlevelhealth.com.

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Advice on How to Shop for Fur

By Paul Anthony Arco, senior staff writer

W

inter is a natural time to shop for fur, not just for fashion, but for warmth and comfort. Whether buying your first fur or just looking to update your wardrobe, here are some helpful hints to assist you in making this all-important purchase.

“The biggest thing people should know is that a fur coat doesn’t have to cost a lot of money,” says Chris Laird, owner of Fur Company Williams-Laird, located at Edgebrook, 1603 N. Alpine Road, Rockford. “You can buy a fur coat from $1,500 and up, depending on what you want.”

Laird’s fur salon features everything from rabbit to chinchilla furs, as well as accessories such as pillows, purses and scarves.

In the 37 years since starting the business with his late wife, Eva, Laird’s seen it all when it comes to styles and tastes.

“The biggest trend I’ve seen in the past 10 or 15 years is the simplicity of the fur coat,” he says. “We’re seeing an elegant, classic styling. People don’t wear fur just for dress-up anymore. They wear it for comfort.”

Laird strongly recommends finding a professional furrier, who works with and is knowledgable about furs. “We love to teach people what to look for and how to make the right decision,” he says.

You can look at furs online, but nothing compares to experiencing them in person. “It’s a much different experience, coming in to touch, feel and look at the coat,” Laird says. “If you come

into the store, I can show you the details of how the coat is made and find out if it fits you and your lifestyle. There are so many different styles to choose from. It’s not just about fashion anymore.”

After 37 years in business, Laird and his longtime staff, which includes Anthony Flowers, Elizabeth Bole and Marissa Bernachea, still get a kick out of helping people find the right fur coat.

“This never gets old,” Laird says. “Our goal is to make it a fun experience buying a fur. I want customers to walk out of the store with a smile on their face. That’s our greatest satisfaction.”

To learn more about finding a fur to fit your lifestyle, visit the Fur Company at Edgebrook or call (815) 397-7778. ❚

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R  O R

Visit Beloit BIFF Getaway Continued from Cover

BIFF attracts scores of visitors, from movie buffs and film scholars to industry hopefuls, who come for the opportunity to view hardto-find independent feature, documentary, animated and short films. As film festivals go, BIFF is unique, in that the screenings take place in Beloit’s downtown, in venues ranging from restaurants and coffee shops to art galleries and clothing boutiques.

“The community is incredibly supportive,” says Monica Krysztopa, executive director for Visit Beloit. “From major corporate sponsors, to the owners who show the films in their businesses, to the local volunteers who help out and the residents who attend. This giveaway not only showcases BIFF, but offers winners the chance to experience Beloit and our great downtown.”

As part of the prize package, the winner receives a two-night stay for two at the historic Ironworks Hotel, a luxury boutique hotel on the banks of the Rock River, in the heart of downtown Beloit. Formerly the Beloit Inn, the Ironworks celebrated its grand opening in June, following an expansion and complete renovation.

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Inspired by Beloit’s industrial heritage, the hotel décor features exposed brick, woodwork, repurposed quality items from local industries, and a mix of modern amenities with old world charm.

Included with the stay is a $100 gift card for the hotel’s restaurant, Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint, with a menu that features a variety of mouth-watering steaks, along with fish, chicken and seafood selections. The restaurant is named after the two men who founded Merrill & Houston’s Iron Works in 1858; renamed Beloit Ironworks in the late 1880s, it eventually became Beloit Corporation. It has a rustic feel, with leather seats, hardwood floors and walls lined with historic photographs. Expansive windows offer a view of the Rock River and the colorful murals of ironworkers that decorate brick walls of the historic Beloit Ironworks factory.

The crowning piece of the prize package is two GOLD Passes to BIFF, good for any of the film screenings during the weekend.

Among the weekend offerings is BIFF’s second annual Wisconsin Illinois Showdown, with filmmakers from both states vying for audience choice awards.

All told, more than 200 Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint films will be screened at BIFF throughout the 10 days. “A big bonus at BIFF is that many of the filmmakers attend the screenings of their films, and are available afterward for questions,” Krysztopa says.

R  O R

To kick off its 10th year, BIFF is taking over downtown Beloit for its Opening Night Block Party. “It’s going to be a fantastic event,” Krysztopa says. “Beginning at 7:30 p.m., there will be ice sculpting, fire breathers, and activities for kids. Various downtown venues will host entertainment that includes a live radio broadcast of Casablanca, life-size puppet shows, stand-up comedy and live music from local performers.”

The 10th anniversary is an important milestone for this event, a grassroots enterprise that has grown each year since it began, in both scope and prestige. In 2006, the first BIFF screened 80 films over four days; this year, it will showcase more than 200 films, representing 40 countries, over 10 days. BIFF organizers are quick to give credit for the resounding success to the Beloit community.

“It’s a reflection on the community,” says Ron Nief, president of the BIFF Board of Directors. “Sponsorship has been key. Beloit Health System is a major sponsor for our ‘BIFF Cares’ screenings.

Diane and the late Ken Hendricks inspired the festival, and The Hendricks Group has provided title sponsorship since the beginning of the festival.”

Visit Beloit is a longtime BIFF supporter. “Visitors can come to us for information on the films and venues, to pick up programs, buy BIFF merchandise, or to ask about places to eat or stay,” Krysztopa says.

Known as “The Gateway to Wisconsin,” Beloit is home to Beloit College, Beloit Snappers baseball, a beautiful riverfront, live theater and a thriving arts community.

“We have an awesome downtown, with great restaurants and boutiques, most of them independently owned,” Krysztopa says.

“We’re right along the river, and we have tons of trails and parks for great outdoor activities all year round. We invite all of BIFF’s guests to stay for a few days to see these amazing films and explore our city.”

Enter the Visit Beloit BIFF Weekend Getaway online at beloitfilmfest.org, where you’ll also find more information about BIFF. The winner will be drawn on Feb. 13. Hotel stay and gift card are good only for the weekend indicated. GOLD Passes can be used throughout the entire 10-day event.

For information on lodging, restaurants, shopping and things to do while in Beloit, go to visitbeloit.com. ❚

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Ambulatory Surgery: Convenience, Peace of Mind

By Craig Schmidt

G

oing to a hospital, even to visit someone, tends to create anxiety. For individuals who have never undergone surgery, stepping into a sprawling medical complex can be nerve-racking, whether you’re a child or an adult. Opting for ambulatory – or outpatient – surgery can help to calm those nerves.

Once inside an outpatient surgery center, you may notice important differences from traditional hospitals. You won’t see bustling emergency activity or hear insistent overhead pages.

“An ambulatory surgery center doesn’t look or sound like a hospital, even though we provide many of the same services and have the same equipment,” says Dr. George Arends, clinical medical director of Rockford Ambulatory Surgery Center, 1016 Featherstone Road, Rockford. “It can make for a much calmer experience. With the smaller setting, nurses have more time to spend with patients as well.”

Demand for ambulatory surgery has soared in recent years.

Increasingly sophisticated procedures are performed in more convenient and comfortable venues.

“Outpatient procedures should be convenient for the patient,” says Arends, who oversees every aspect of the center’s surgical processes. “We emphasize starting every case on time. The surgery center has excellent time control, so there’s less waiting time once patients arrive.”

On any given day, surgeons from across the Stateline Area help patients to regain quality of life beginning as early as 7 a.m.

Oftentimes, the last patient leaves recovery as late as 5:30 or 6 p.m.

The center starts preparing patients by telephone, from two days to a week ahead of scheduled procedures. Tests are rarely needed, since patients are generally healthy and medically stable.

Patients appreciate the simplified admissions process and discharge procedures. There is minimal paperwork during registration. The center offers free parking with a covered drive-up entrance and discharge area.

Typically, patients arrive one to two hours before surgery. The average procedure takes from 30 minutes to one hour, with local or general anesthetic. Patients spend about an hour in recovery, then leave to recuperate in the comfort of their own homes.

“Most people would rather go home on the day of the procedure,” Arends says. “It’s convenient for patients.” ❚

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New Linear Accelerator at RHS Cancer Center T

he Cancer Center at Rockford Health System has added a linear accelerator, to augment its already comprehensive cancer treatment programs. Renovations and expansion of the North Rockton Avenue location were undertaken in May 2014, to make room for the state-of-the-art system, which provides cutting-edge radiation therapy.

Funding for the project, which was completed late last year, was provided by The Rockford Memorial Development Foundation. Treatment of patients using the new TrueBeam linear accelerator is expected to begin shortly.

By better pinpointing where cancer cells end and healthy cells begin, linear accelerators help medical experts to deliver enough radiation to a tumor to eliminate it, while minimizing the amount of healthy tissue that’s exposed to the radiation.

The technology is important because cancer tumors and lesions don’t stay in the exact same place after each treatment session. When a patient experiences weight fluctuation or other physical changes, organs can shift even slightly. So it’s important that physicians can identify exactly where cancerous cells end and healthy cells begin.

The TrueBeam linear accelerator also greatly reduces the number of steps needed for imaging, positioning and treating patients.

Its treatment couch can be positioned with near-perfect accuracy, and the system moves in a continuous rotation around the patient, which syncs imaging with dosage delivery.

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For patients of the Cancer Center, all of this means that treatment times and the number of treatments could be reduced by more than half.

To learn more about Rockford Health System, its programs, providers, services and locations, visit rockfordhealthsystem.org. ❚ Source: Rockford Health System

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Rock River Philharmonic Annual Trivia Night Jan. 29, 6:30 p.m. Teams or individuals compete to answer questions in a variety of categories. $25 per/$200 team of eight. Prizes to top individuals and teams; refreshments provided. All proceeds support the BJS. Registration: beloitjanesvillesymphony.org. Event: Rotary Riverside Center, 1220 Riverside Dr., Beloit.

A Talent for Murder Jan. 29-Feb. 7, see website for days/times. An internationally successful mystery novelist’s relatives wouldn’t mind killing her to get their hands on her extensive art collection. Beloit Civic Theatre, Elizabeth Reinholz Theatre, Beloit Memorial High School, 1225 4th St., Beloit, Wis. (608) 362-1595, beloitcivictheatre.org.

(Hannah Baldwin photo)

Coal Mining of Illinois Exhibition Through March 7, Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. noon-5 p.m. Photographs and artifacts from the times between 1820 and 1990 highlighting the coal miners’ lives and coal mining in the U.S. Freeport Art Museum, 121 N. Harlem Ave., Freeport, (815) 235-9755, freeportartmuseum.org.

See hundreds of tropical orchids, attend workshops and shop orchid vendors, at the “In Full Bloom” orchid exhibit, Jan. 31-March 1 at Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens in Rockford.

Vince Chiarelli & Frank Calvagna Jan. 31, 7 p.m. Pizza from Mamma Mia’s, canned soda, bottled water, popcorn available for purchase. Free admission; donations welcome.

Spring Creek UCC, Rockford, springcreekucc.org.

Shotgun Jane Jan. 30, 7:30 p.m. From amazing vocals and musicianship to fun stage performances, this Janesville-based band delivers a high energy rock show. JPAC, Janesville, (608) 758-0297.

Wander at the Wetland Feb. 3, 4-7:30 p.m. Hike, snowshoe or ski the trail set with hundreds of luminaries under the full moon. Guided tours available. Bonfires along the way. Cookies, snacks, hot cocoa, coffee and tea inside. All ages, family-friendly. Nygren Wetland Preserve, 3190 W. Rockton Road, Rockton, (815) 964-6666, naturalland.org.

A Taste of BIFF at Janesville Jan. 30-31, 5 p.m. Sample the best films of BIFF 2015. Three film slots at 5 and 7 p.m. each night.

Sat: 2 p.m. screening of Someone You Love: The HPV Epidemic, with panel of health care professionals. Tickets/info: beloitfilmfest.org. Venue: Ramada Janesville, 3900 Milton Ave., Janesville.

A Little Night Music Feb. 4-14, Wed.-Sun., see website for times. This Stephen Sondheim musical involves the romantic lives of several couples, with the hit song “Send in the Clowns.” Studio Theatre, Rock Valley College (RVC), 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford, (815) 921-2160, rockvalleycollege.edu.

Japanese Snow Viewing Tea Ceremony Jan. 31, 10:30 a.m., 12:30 & 3 p.m. Host Kimiko Gunji, Professor Emeritus of Japanese Traditional Arts and Culture at the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana. Held in 16th century Sukiya style Guest House. Space limited; reservations req. $25/$20 members. Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 229-9390, andersongardens.org.

317 Studio & Gallery Grand Opening Feb. 6, 4-8 p.m. Owners/artists Tabatha Dougherty and Therese Rowinski offer classes and host gallery showings and First Friday events. Opened in March 2014, they’re now expanding into adjacent space. Celebrate with them and view the February First Friday artist exhibit. Free. 317 Studio & Gallery, 317 Market St., Rockford, (815) 315-7000, 317studiogallery.com.

In Full Bloom: Orchid Exhibit Jan. 31-March 1, Tues.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat.Sun. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Hundreds of tropical orchids creatively displayed in the warm tropical exhibition area. Also, orchids for sale, orchid vendors, workshops, more. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. 2nd St., Rockford, (815) 987-8858, nicholasconservatory.com.

Annual Susan B. Anthony Birthday Party Feb. 7, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. From the League of Women Voters. A readers’ theater on area suffragists, with local actress Michelle Dennis and audience volunteers. $25. Mail checks made out to “League of Women Voters-Beloit” to Deb Fallon, 1232 Elm St., Beloit, WI 53511. The Butterfly Club, 5246 E. County Rd. X, Beloit. ❚

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WDL

Restaurant of the Week

Pearl Bistro

By Brian Hughes

s the newest owner of Pearl Bistro, 6876 Spring Creek Road Rockford, longtime customer Rick Lewis is excited about his new career. “Other than being a customer during my many years of business travel, this is my first time owning or working in a restaurant,” he says.

Lewis purchased Pearl Bistro from Josef & Cherri Schwaiger, owners of Josef’s of Barbados, in October 2014. Although new to the restaurant game, Lewis’ excitement and enthusiasm shines bright. Almost every day and night, he can be found at the restaurant greeting customers, filling water glasses, and directing his staff.

Pearl has been serving the Rockford area for a number of years, and Lewis plans to build on its reputation as a relaxing place where people can come for good food and fun times. “Hash tag MeetAtPearl is our motto,” he says. “It can mean anything from gathering with friends or family, to meeting for a first date, to conducting business over lunch or drinks.”

Lewis says the restaurant will operate with a similar menu, the same staff, and the reappointing of Executive Chef Jonathon Powers. Pearl is Rockford’s original Brick Oven Pizza Bar, a feature Lewis will continue to highlight. “From a simple Margherita to our Meat Loaded Grinder, there really is a pizza for everyone,” he says.

There’s even a Bananas Foster dessert pizza.

(Kevin Thompson photo)

A

Owner Rick Lewis, inside Pearl Bistro, Rockford

Menu items include a chicken panini, chicken Alfredo, pesto ravioli, and the Certified Angus Beef Pearl Burger. Appetizers include the Buffalo Shrimp and Buffalo Chicken, which features a “secret” Pearl buffalo sauce. The Friday night fish fry also is very popular.

The full-service bar offers a variety of gourmet cocktails. “We have several new drinks, including smoke infused martinis and craft cocktails,” Lewis says.

People at the bar can order from Pearl’s regular menu, and several large screen TVs let customers follow their favorite sports. “We strive to treat our guests like they’re coming into our home, which creates an atmosphere that’s inviting and comfortable,” says Lewis.

Pearl Bistro is open Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-12:30 a.m., and Sun. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. ❚

Main Street Bistro  Upscale-Casual/Fine dining. Th&Sat. 109 S. Galena, Freeport, (815) 232-2322. M-Sat 2pm-midnight. $$.

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Amici Italian Grill  Upscale-Casual/Authentic Italian. 5506 Clayton Circle, Roscoe, (815) 623-7171. LD Sun-Th 11am-9pm, F-Sat 11am-10-pm. $-$$.

Bravo Pizza  Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Rd., South Beloit, Ill. (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $.

Butterfly Club  Fine Dining. 5246 E. Co. Road X, Beloit, Wis., (608) 362-8577. Sat T-Th 5pm, F 4:30-10pm, Sun noon-8pm. $$.

Maciano’s Pizza & Pastaria  Casual. Beer/wine. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, (815) 963-7869. LD Sun-Th 11am10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $$.

Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint  Fine Dining. Ironworks Hotel, 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, Wis. (608) 313-0700. D Sun.-Th 4:30-9pm, Fri-Sat. 10pm. $$.

Napoli Pizzeria III & Top Dollar Slots  Takeout/delivery.

6560 N. Alpine, Loves Park, (815) 877-9888. LD Sun-Th11am10:30pm, F-Sat to 11:30pm. $-$$.

Café Fromage  Casual/American. Regional foods. 431 E. Pearl Bistro  Casual/American. Brick oven pizza, burgers, Grand Ave., Beloit, (608) 312-2070. BrLD M-F 7am-6pm, Sat- sandwiches, appetizers, steak, seafood, signature cocktails.

6876 Spring Creek, Rockford, (815) 654-3400. LD M-Th 11amSun 8am-5pm. $.

11pm, F-Sat to 12:30am, Sun to 8pm. $-$$.

Cannova’s Italian Cuisine  Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., FreePrairie Street Brewhouse  Upscale-Casual/American. 200 port, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. $-$$.

Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Ciao Bella Ristorante  Upscale-Casual/Italian-American. ExTh to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$. tensive wine list; daily specials. 6500 E. Riverside, Loves Park, Sisters Thai Café  Casual/Thai-Laotian. Authentic cuisine.

(815) 654-9900. LD M-F 11am-9pm, Sat 5-9pm. $$.

InClock Tower Resort, 7801 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 229Costa’s Ristorante  Upscale-Casual. 133 Blackhawk Dr., By4545. L M-Sat 11am-2:30pm; D Sun-Th 5-9pm, Sat 10pm. $. ron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. Open daily 4pm. $-$$.

Tavern on Clark  Casual/American. 755 Clark Ave., Rockford, Giordano’s Famous Stuffed Pizza  Casual/Italian. Pick-up/ (815) 708-7088. LD daily 10am. $-$$. delivery. 333 Executive Pkwy., Rockford, Ill. (815) 398-5700. LD This Is It Eatery  Casual/American. 16 N. Chicago Ave., FreeSun-Th 9am-11p.m; F-Sat to midnight. $. port, (815) 616-5449. LD T-Th 11am-8pm, F-Sat 10pm. $.

JMK Nippon Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar  UpscaleCasual. Food cooked tableside. 2551 N. Perryville, Rockford, Vito’s Ristorante  Casual/Authentic Italian. 1620 N. Bell (815) 877-0505. L T-F 11:30am-2pm, Sat 2:30pm; D M-Th School Rd., Rockford, (815) 312-5080. LD T-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $$. ❚ 5-9:30pm, F-Sat 10:30pm, Sun 4:30-9:30pm. $$.

In the Spotlight The Rockford Brewing Co.

T

he Rockford Brewing Co. restaurant, inside the Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., Rockford, serves lunch and dinner seven days a week, and offers daily drink and food specials.

On the menu are “shared dishes” like wings, Nikolob-steamed mussels, a meat or cheese board and battered cheese curds, along with soups, salads and sides like house-made chips with sea salt. Sandwiches range from burgers and pulled pork to Screw City light corned beef and a BLT made with a one-third pound patty, cherry-wood bacon, and/or duck bacon.

Entrees include fish and chips, ribeye steak, blackened bone-in pork chop, and Gado Gado, an almond-crusted tofu dish.

Rockford Brewing Co. is open Sun.-Wed. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Thurs. to midnight, and Fri.-Sat. to 2 a.m. ❚

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T  I

Cold Weather Pet Care Tips

F

ollow these guidelines to help protect your companion animals during harsh winter weather.

• Keep your cat inside, to keep him safe from freezing or getting lost in the snow.

• Outdoor cats sometimes sleep under the hoods of cars and are injured or killed when the motor’s started, so bang loudly on the hood before starting the car, to let the cat escape.

• Never let your dog off the leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm, when dogs can easily become lost. Make sure your dog always wears ID tags.

• Thoroughly wipe off your dog’s paws, legs and stomach when he comes in from the snow, to remove any dangerous road or car chemicals. Pads can be irritated by snow or ice caught in them, too.

• Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter. After a bath, be sure to completely dry your dog before taking him outside.

If you own a short-haired breed, consider getting him a coat or sweater with a high collar or turtleneck with coverage from the base of the tail to the belly.

• Never leave your dog or cat alone in a car in cold weather. A car can hold in the cold and cause the animal to freeze to death.

• Puppies are sensitive to the cold and may be difficult to housebreak in winter, so you may need to paper-train them inside.

A dog sensitive to the cold due to age, illness or breed should go outdoors only to relieve himself.

• If your dog engages in outdoor winter activities, increase his food and protein.

• Antifreeze is lethal poison for dogs and cats, so thoroughly clean up any spills or leaks from your car.

• Give your pet a cat or dog bed to sleep on, with a blanket or pillow, off the floor and away from all drafts. ❚ Source: ASPCA

Get SLW Tips & Information articles every week. Visit NWQSmartLiving.com and start your e-Edition today.

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• 2 Beloit International Film Festival GOLD Passes* • 2 Night stay at the Ironworks Hotel (BIFF Kickoff Weekend)** • $100 Gift card to Merrill & Houstonʼs Steak Joint * GOLD Passes give unlimited access to all films during the full 10-day festival, non-film events, and free admission to the BIFF Signature Event.

Find more information on BIFF at www.beloitfilmfest.org. * * Overnights are good for Friday, February 20th and Saturday, February 21st only. View hotel accommodations at www.ironworkshotel.com.

Winner will be chosen on Friday, February 13th.

Now in its tenth year, BIFF is a ten-day tribute to the power and excitement of independent film from around the world. Local residents and visitors from across the nation fill venues in Downtown Beloit, ranging in size from 40 seats to 400 seats, to experience nearly 150 films and meet more than 100 filmmakers who come from as far away as Europe, Asia and South America! Individual tickets are available at www.beloitfilmfest.org.

•••••••••

Visit beloitfilmfest.org or complete the form below and mail to: Visit Beloit Attn: Film Fest • 500 Public Ave., Beloit, WI 53511 Name ___________________________________ Email ___________________________________ Phone ___________________________________ Smart Living Weekly 32www.visitbeloit.com

608.365.4838

Jan. 28

*All forms must be postmarked by Feb. 9th, 2015

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Y M

5 Financial Fitness Habits for the New Year W

hile the New Year is a time when many people focus on personal health goals, it’s also a great time to check your financial fitness. To whip your finances into shape, faculty member Dr. Alan Harper, of South University College of Business, Virginia Beach, suggests adopting these five financial habits in 2015: • Establish a budget This is the first step in taking control of your finances. “Know how much money is coming in, where it’s going, and how to allocate it appropriately,” Harper says. “This way, you’ll gain a broader understanding of your spending habits.”

• Start saving Your budget should also include money set aside for emergencies or job loss. According to Harper, the old standard of having three months’ salary in your bank account is not adequate in our current economy. “We found in the last recession that people tended

to stay out of work much longer than three months,” he says. “You should have six months to a year’s worth of income in savings, just in case.”

• Manage your credit Check your credit history regularly and look for any mistakes on your credit report, which can cost you money in higher interest rates on loans, or even keep you from being approved for a loan.

• Shop smart Make it a priority to save money while you shop, by clipping coupons and comparison shopping.

• Check your insurance Harper advises reviewing your auto, home and life insurance policies, to make sure you have the proper coverage.

“You don’t want to pay for coverage you may no longer need, and you want to have adequate coverage in case you need to make a claim,” he says.

“Also make sure your life insurance

policies are sufficient to protect your family from a financial crisis if something were to happen to you.”

Just like going to the gym, it can be a lot of work to stick to these financial habits.

“But the rewards to your financial fitness are well worth the effort,” Harper says. ❚ Source: Brandpoint Get SLW Money articles every week. Visit NWQSmartLiving.com and start your e-Edition today.

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e-Subscribe to Smart Living Weekly Now! You Will Be Automatically Entered into This Week’s Giveaway!

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Enter This Week’s Giveaway, and Receive Smart Living Every Week For FREE! E-Subscribers: Click Here Now to Enter This Week’s Giveaway.

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Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint Enter Now At: www.northwestquarterly.com/contest For contest rules go to NWQSmartLiving.com

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Issue 1