Sm mart a r t L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • October 17, 2018
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Right in Our Region
It’s Apple Time!
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Make an Apple Butter Cake Why Car Care Pays Off Can You End Electric Bills? Understanding Heart Attacks Getting to Know Furniture Brands
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In This Issue
Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 16 Apple Time at Ten Eyck Orchard Your Money .........................................................9 Cornerstone Opens New South Beloit Location Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Know Your Furniture Brands Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Meet Deborah Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Apple Butter Cake Your Outing .......................................................19 Lots of Fall Fun at Midway Village Museum Your Auto ................................................ .......... 20 Regular Maintenance Pays Off Your Technology .................................... .......... 21 Can You Live Without Electric Bills? Your Health ............................................. .......... 23 What to Know About Heart Attacks Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 Taco Betty’s Your Professional .................................... ......... 29 Why Legal Advice Can Save You Money
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Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes
Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen Assistant Managing Editor Jermaine Pigee Editor Emeritus Janine Pumilia Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Behling Contributing Writer Peggy Werner, Paula Kalivoda Furniss General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes Advertising Sales Representatives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones, Nita Lasky, Anthony Franklin Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Distribution Kelly Fairbairn Website www.SmartLivingWeekly.com Published by Hughes Media Corp. 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 (815) 316-2300, Fax: (815) 316-2301 lhughes@northwestquarterly.com Smart Living Weekly. Copyright 2018 by Hughes Media Corp., 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.
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Being Together C
ongratulations to Rockford City Market for another successful summer of fun Friday nights spent downtown. Nearly 100,000 visitors were welcomed over the 20-week season, which is pretty remarkable, considering the eight Fridays of rain, three Fridays of high heat and one storm that shut the market down early. I appreciate the way people from different walks of life come together at City Market and share their interests, like food, home brews, music, hand-made wares and charitable causes. It’s also a valuable platform for budding entrepreneurs to test out products. Several have made the leap to storefronts after finding success here. We can thank Cathy McDermott of the Rock River Development Partnership (RRDP) for leading the herculean effort each Friday night, assisted by a cadre of volunteers and, of course, 78 vendors, all from within 150 miles of Rockford. RRDP also coordinated 41 musical performances on two stages at City Market this year. Some 47 local non-profit groups were able to promote their causes at the market, in exchange for running gates or providing a free children’s activity. McDermott has been involved with running the market since its debut in 2010 and assumed full responsibility in 2012. None of us relishes the impending cold winds of winter, but our four-season climate does provide a good chance to rest, review, regroup and plan for next year. Looking back on the summer/fall of 2018, we see how the many opportunities for people to come together in our region add to our quality of life. I remember when many of us were surprised at the immediate success of City Market and its bigger-than-expected visitor numbers – but now I can’t recall why we were surprised. Having just returned from Europe, I’m reminded that simply being together, whether in our Midwest downtown or at the street cafes of Paris and Vienna, is something we crave and need. Have a great week! ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor
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Cornerstone Holds South Beloit Open House
By Janine Pumilia
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ocally owned and managed Cornerstone Credit Union is focused on providing the latest e-services to members, but it also knows some folks like to bank in person. For that reason, it maintains four staffed locations. On Sept. 20, it relocated its South Beloit, Ill. branch to an extensively remodeled building at 640 Blackhawk Blvd. A grand opening celebration will be held the week of Oct. 22, with a ribbon cutting on Oct. 23. Visitors will be met with specials, gifts and warm greetings from branch manager Barbi Ortiz and her staff. Anyone who lives or works in one of nine northwestern Illinois counties or in Rock or Green counties in Wisconsin can join member-owned Cornerstone Credit Union, the only financial institution in South Beloit. “This new location is larger and more convenient for customers,” says David Hoffert, vice president of operations. It features three drive-up lanes; a
sunny, welcoming lobby and coffee area; a pod-style layout with stand-up and sitdown customer service representative stations; management offices and a selfservice coin-counting machine. There’s also a conference room for community workshops, something Lorna Cote, marketing director, appreciates. “Helping people to find the right financial solutions is important to us,” she says. “And it’s a service the credit union provides that online banks just can’t offer.” Hoffert likes the way the new facil-
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ity’s design maximizes efficiency. “The better we do, the more we’re able to pass it along to members in the form of lower loan rates and better dividend returns,” he explains. While Cornerstone offers old-fashioned in-person service, it also caters to tech-savvy customers. Mobile check deposits, transfers and online applications are among its offerings. “Members also have access to thousands of ATMS throughout the nation and can conduct business in person at many credit unions because of our participation in Shared Branching,” says Hoffert. Cornerstone provides mortgages, personal and small business loans and investment products like IRAs and CDs, at less cost. All deposits are federally insured. “We pride ourselves on making safety and security a priority,” adds Hoffert. PG Architecture led the extensive remodeling effort. Stop by the new branch or learn more at CornerstoneCU.org. ❚
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A Furniture Brand Overview
By Janine Pumilia astes in furniture vary, but we all want good quality at a fair price. Benson Stone Co., 1100 11th St., Rockford, offers a broad selection of brands, many made in the USA. Owner Andy Benson is proud of the value he offers in a wide range of price points. “We bought this building in 1999 for $250,000, so we enjoy very low overhead,” he says. “That allows us to offer very good value. Apples-to-apples, we have the lowest prices in our region, something not everyone knows about us. We sell good, better and high quality brands. The only thing we don’t carry is cheaply made stuff nobody should be buying.” Most furniture looks good on the outside, but it’s the inside construction that will or won’t disappoint. The career professionals at Benson can explain the differences. The most recent addition to Benson’s lineup is Simply Amish, of Arcola, Ill.,
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for which Benson Stone is the exclusive dealer in northern Illinois. This solid wood furniture is handmade by Amish craftsmen on 50 Midwest farms. “They can fully customize any piece, not only the style, wood species and stain options, but even the measurements,” says John Otto, furniture manager at Benson. Smith Bros., of Berne, Ind., offers about 1,200 fabric and leather choices for upholstered living room and motion furniture. Otto describes it as “a Lexus product at a Chevy price.” When it comes to heirloom-quality leather, Hancock & Moore, of Hickory, N.C., “just exudes quality and only gets better with time,” says Benson. Flexsteel, of Dubuque, Iowa, is respected for its patented blue steel spring technology in sofas and chairs. Rowe, of Elliston, Va., and Klaussner, of Asheboro, N.C., make furniture that’s “more affordable but still well made,”
Traveler’s swivel chair by Hancock & Moore.
says Benson. “Rowe offers modern, clean styling with a lot of custom options.” Klaussner is known for its wide array of sectional and sofa configurations. One of the most popular brands is Stressless, made on a fjord in Norway. “There are lots of copycats but none are as good,” says Benson. “You have to try one out to understand the comfort.” Benson also carries furniture by Skovby, Thomasville, Kincaid, Bradington Young, Hooker, Sherill, Precident, Omnia Leather and more. Learn more at Bensonstone.com. ❚
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Who Was Deborah?
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ong before Israel became a kingdom, its 12 tribes were loosely joined without a central government. The people wavered in their relationship to God, often getting swept up in idolatry, which led to their oppression at the hand of various enemies. At other times, they repented and turned back to God, led by a divinely inspired person known as a “judge.” Most of the judges were in some way flawed or handicapped, at least by the standards of their culture. Sampson had a weak spot for bad women; Gideon lacked courage; Jephthah was the son of a prostitute; Ehud was left-handed; and Deborah … was a woman. “Now Deborah, a prophet, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time. She held court under the Palm of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, and the Israelites went up to her to have their disputes decided,” says Judges 4:4. Deborah sets up a plan to defeat Israel’s latest oppressor, Jabin the king of Canaan, and Sisera, the commander of his army. Deborah’s plan works and Sisera ends up having a tent peg driven through his head, while sleeping, thanks to a woman named Jael. This fulfills a prophecy by Deborah that “the Lord will deliver Sisera into the hands of a woman” rather than into the hands of Barak, the most influential man in Israel at the time. In Judges 4:23 we read, “On that day God subdued Jabin king of Canaan before the Israelites.” Afterward, Deborah oversaw Israel for 20 peaceful years. Why did God choose people with social “flaws” to lead His people? Perhaps to illustrate that the weakest among us may overcome all odds when relying upon God’s strength rather than our own. Many centuries later, the Apostle Paul would quote the Lord Jesus Christ saying: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) ❚ – Janine Pumilia 12
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An Easy Potluck Dish: Apple Butter Cake A
s the saying goes, sharing is caring, and nothing spreads a little love like a potluck gathering among family and friends. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or at a watch party for your favorite team, bring a simple make-andtake recipe for a tasty good time. One sure bet for a crowd pleaser is the rich flavor of Musselman’s Apple Butter, a classic Pennsylvania Dutch spread made with apples and cinnamon that can add a special touch to your favorite sweet or savory recipes. Find more recipes just right for sharing at musselmans.com.
Apple Butter Gooey Butter Cake Cake Ingredients: 1 cup flour 3/4 cup sugar 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt 1 egg
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted 2 TB milk 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract Filling Ingredients: 4 ounces cream cheese, softened 1 cup Musselman’s Apple Butter 1 egg 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract 1 cup powdered sugar 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon, plus additional for serving 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg whipped cream Preparation: Heat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease 8-by-8-inch square pan. To make cake: In large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Whisk in egg, melted butter, milk and vanilla until moistened. Spread
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evenly in pan. To make filling: In large bowl with electric mixer, beat together cream cheese and apple butter until smooth. Beat in egg then beat in melted butter and vanilla. Scrape bowl then beat in powdered sugar, 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon and nutmeg. Spread filling over cake; bake 4550 minutes, or until center is set. Do not overbake as center should be slightly gooey. Cool completely before serving. Garnish with whipped cream and dust with cinnamon to serve. ❚ Source: Family Features
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It’s Apple Season Again at Ten Eyck Orchard By Lindsey Gapen, managing editor
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en Eyck family members have been nurturing apple trees all year long. Now, the fruit of their labor is ready for the public to enjoy. “We pick everything at peak ripeness,” says owner Drew Ten Eyck. “The quality of our apples sets us apart – everything is fresh and delicious.” The woodlands, prairies and changing leaves make for a gorgeous ride out to the family farm, located on Highway 11 and 81, just three miles west of Brodhead, Wis., and 10 miles east of Monroe, Wis. Every year, visitors come from near and far to browse more than 50 varieties of traditional and heirloom apples, which are picked at the peak of flavor and texture. When it comes to cooking, Drew recommends Cortland and Jonathan apples. For eating, Honeycrisp, Suncrisp
and Holiday apples are among his favorite varieties. “Those are the best to bite into,” Drew says. “The Honeycrisp is sweet and crunchy, while the Suncrisp is a little more citrusy. The Holiday is very crisp and tart. All of them are delicious.” In addition to apples, the farm also offers pumpkins, gourds, pears, plums and a plethora of apple-infused treats. The Ten Eycks make cider, donuts and pies with their apples – and everything is made from scratch. “We have everything from handdipped caramel apples to weird, warty
squashes,” Drew says. “It’s a great variety of products and everything is fresh.” Opal John, the orchard manager, has been working with the Ten Eyck family since she was a teenager. Now, she manages the orchard’s beehives and makes treats with raw, unfiltered honey. Products from her Opalicious Honey line are
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also available in the selling shed. The orchard has a 5-acre corn maze for visitors to enjoy. “It’s a pretty traditional corn maze – it’s just a lot of fun for people of all ages,”
says Drew, who represents the sixth generation to own and operate Ten Eyck Orchard. In 2013, he returned to the family farm with experience in ecological monitoring and prairie management. Today he’s working alongside his father, Rob, to bring the orchard into the 21st century. “My dad has emphasized that quality is the most important thing,” Drew says. “We don’t have the largest quantity, but we do have a better-tasting apple than anybody else. This is the time of year when we work the hardest.” Drew also learned from his father to always give back to the community. “The community is so supportive of us,” Drew says. “It’s important that we recognize that and be good to them.” Drew is proud that Ten Eyck Orchard is known for having a knowledgeable and
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friendly staff. Most of the salespeople have been with Ten Eyck for two decades and apple pickers have had years of experience gently handling the fruit. Drew believes it’s the variety and quality of apples, combined with the friendliness of his staff, that keeps people coming back to Ten Eyck Orchard. “We try to grow stuff that people haven’t seen since their childhood, but also stay on top of what’s new and popular,” Drew says. “Our friendly customer service is what sets us apart.” Drew also is proud of the family’s history. The 179-year-old farm has grown from simply sustaining the Ten Eyck family to serving the community. “I have great memories of growing up here,” Drew says. “It’s a beautiful landscape – a classic Green County farm setting – with multiple decades of history. We’ve served generations of customers and it’s important to us that we continue sustainable practices while adapting to customer needs.” ❚
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Lots to Learn at Midway Village this Autumn V By Peggy Werner
isitors always find something interesting at Midway Village Museum, whether or not a special event is taking place. “We have an ever-changing museum center that’s available to people yearround,” says Caitlin Treece, museum educator. Museum Gallery Guided Tours take place on the third Saturday of most months. Upcoming tours will be at 10:30 a.m. on Oct. 27 and Nov. 24. The 90-minute tours offer in-depth information about Rockford history and a chance to ask questions. On Saturday, Nov. 3, the museum will present Evening of Illumination from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Costumed guides will take groups around the Victorian Village by lantern to explore stories about the buildings and visit activity stations. Also on Nov. 3 is the All Aboard! Model Train Show from 10 a.m. to 4
p.m. More than 12 trains will be on display and experts will share information and answer questions. The event is held in partnership with the Rock River Valley Division of the National Model Railroad Association, which meets the first Sunday of the month September through May at the museum. The fourth annual Hometown Heroes: Rockford’s Vietnam Veterans event is at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 10. Harlem High School students have interviewed Vietnam veterans and produced half-hour documentaries that will be shown. Featured veterans this year include Thomas Morgan, who was part of a land clearing company, speaking on “Fear of Dying,” and Gary Kahler, a U.S. Marine helicopter co-pilot who was shot down during a resupply mission. The students will share what they learned from the veterans while making the videos.
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“We’re taking this opportunity to thank our veterans and pay tribute to their experiences and sacrifices, and to let them know they’re appreciated,” says Laura Furman, the museum’s curator of collections and education. “They were not treated well at the time of the war, but they have important stories to tell and those memories need to be collected and preserved.” Museum admission fees apply to most events, unless otherwise noted. They are $7 for adults, $5 for ages 3-17, and free to infants and members. ❚
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Prevent Vehicle Trouble with Maintenance By Peggy Werner
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f you drive a car, truck, recreational vehicle, have a fleet of trucks, or any other motorized transportation, chances are you can find everything you need at Scott’s RV, Truck and Auto Repair at 3301 American Road. Owner Scott Adkins started out in a shop like his own, and when it closed he saw an opportunity to continue to service people in the way he was used to doing. “I wanted a fair, honest repair shop where people could get everything done in one place. We’re pretty diversified in what we do, and it’s especially convenient for customers with more than one vehicle,” he says. He opened his business 11 years ago and quickly outgrew the small shop located just a half mile from his current location. In 2009, he bought a lot and put up a building that underwent a major expansion in 2014, bringing the number of
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work bays to 15. He employs five certified technicians in automotive services and diesel mechanics and a total of 11 employees. Adkins says it’s not too early to think about avoiding trouble down the road. “So many problems with vehicles can be prevented with routine maintenance. Oftentimes, what people think is the main problem is really a symptom of something else gone wrong,” he says. To get ready for winter, it’s a good idea to have the tires, battery, coolant, wipers, brakes and other moving parts checked. “Cars don’t need tune-ups as often as they used to, but it’s still a good idea to have a fall inspection. Everything works harder in the winter and you don’t want to have a breakdown on the coldest day,” he says. His business services every type of
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foreign and domestic vehicle, warranties its work for 12 months or 12,000 miles, has the latest diagnostic equipment and a waiting area with WI-FI, provides free shuttle rides within a limited area and does Illinois and federal DOT inspections. Learn more by calling (815) 8740800 or visit scottstruckandauto.com. ❚
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Can You Live Without an Electric Bill? By Peggy Werner
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he time is right for people who want to switch to solar power, especially if they don’t want to shoulder the entire cost of transitioning to cleaner energy. EZ Satellite and Wireless owner and General Manager Charles Zambrano has partnered with Aeos Energy in Franklin Park, Ill., to form another branch of his business called EZ Solar Energy. It aims to provide savings to homeowners through no down payment, fixed-rate financing, discounts and rebates to homeowners. “Our goal is to get everyone as close as possible to getting their energy 100 percent from the sun, so they don’t have to have an electric bill,” Zambrano says. EZ Solar will help people every step of the way with permits, applications and obtaining a loan, for those who qualify. The product is maintenance-free, has a 25-year warranty and takes only one day
to install. Paperwork takes several weeks to process. Everyone can reduce or eliminate their electric bill with solar power, he says. A lot of factors figure into the equation such as the direction the home faces, the roof style, square footage and how power is used. If a home can only handle so many panels, there will still be a savings. Those who qualify can immediately reduce their electric bill and, at best, eventually have no bill, he says. Federal Investment Tax Credits (ITC) allow homeowners to deduct 30 percent of the cost of installing a solar energy system. The deadlines for the tax incentives have been extended many times and currently expire in 2022. State laws require utilities to produce a specific
percentage of electricity from renewable sources. Right now, for a limited time, the state is offering a rebate for homeowners who have installed solar panels, rewarding them for helping the state meet its goals of producing 25 percent of its electricity through renewable sources by 2025. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Zambrano at EZ Solar at (815) 200-9075. ❚
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What You Should Know About Heart Attacks By Mercyhealth Staff hen the coronary arteries are unable to deliver blood to the heart muscle for a prolonged period of time, a heart attack can occur. A heart attack means that the heart muscle cells have been without oxygen long enough that the cells begin to die. It often means that permanent damage has occurred to the heart muscle. Persons suffering from a heart attack may be able to prevent permanent damage if their treatment is started very early. Heart attacks occur most often from blockages or plaque build-up in the coronary arteries that prevent oxygen from getting to heart muscle cells. The plaque may build up until the coronary artery is completely closed, or the plaque may allow for blood clots to form which block the artery. Heart attacks can also occur from a coronary artery spasm.
• Nausea or vomiting • Back pain
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Heart attack warning signs include: • Chest discomfort: Pain, pressure or a crushing feeling in the middle of the chest • Can last more than a few minutes or go away and come back • Burning sensation, like indigestion, that does not go away • Discomfort can also be felt in the arm, neck, jaw and upper back • Shortness of breath • Light-headedness • Dizziness • Breaking out into a cold sweat
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Sometimes women experience shortness of breath, nausea, back and/or jaw pain or fatigue. Treatment must happen fast. If you or someone else may be having a heart attack, call 911 for assistance immediately. Don’t try to drive yourself to the hospital or wait for a doctor’s appointment. Some risk factors for heart attack, such as age or heredity, are out of our control. Others can be managed with medication and/or lifestyle changes, such as treating high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels and diabetes. Managing weight, quitting smoking, reducing stress and using alcohol only in moderation can reduce the risk of heart attack. Eating a healthful diet and getting regular exercise are two of the best ways to fight cardiovascular disease. Learn more at Mercyhealth.org. ❚
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Y F Autumn just might be the best time of year. The sun is a little lower (and prettier), the air is a little crisper (and cleaner) and the leaves cascade down in colorful splendor. This fall, spend some quality time in the fun, nearby, value-packed Rockford Region. See stunning fall colors at
Real. Original. SM
Anderson Japanese Gardens, the finest in North America. Visit beautifully spacious Rock Cut State Park. Don’t miss Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, with more than 500 different species of trees, shrubs and vines, all
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glowing in autumn’s glory. Indoors, our concert and theater season will be gaining momentum at Coronado Performing Arts Center, a beautifully restored downtown vaudeville house. Plus, our Riverfront Museum Campus will be coming alive for the whole family. Visit gorockford.com today for a full list of autumn special events, festivals, gardens, golf and more.
Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau NWQ_fall.indd 1
102 N. Main St.
Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Tourism
Attractions & Events
Wings of Wonder – Lorikeet Exhibit Thru Nov. 11, Tues.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat.Sun. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Meet these always curious nectar-feeding birds known for Rockford, 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com theirIL 61101 playful personalities and ability to mimic words and sounds. Nicholas Conservatory, 1354 N. 2nd St., (815) 9878858, rockfordparkdistrict.org/ncg. 9/10/07 2:07:37 PM
Listening Room Concerts Thru Dec. 21, Fri. 7 p.m. Sofia Talvik, Rupert Wates, Blues Boys, Emily Hurd, Marques Morel and Andrew Holm are some of the upcoming performers. Listening Room, 201 7th St., Rockford, (815) 965-8903, rockfordlisteningroom.com. 'Chesapeake' Oct. 18-Nov. 10, Thu.-Sat., see website for times. When a conservative candidate's criticism of Kerr’s government-sponsored performance art lands him a Senate seat, Kerr seeks revenge. [usual]Suspects, Nordlof Center. Info: rockfordpubliclibrary.org. John Lindhorst Oct. 19, 7:30 p.m. The musician portrays the history of the ukulele through song. MPAC, Mendelssohn Hall, Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org. A Paranormal Evening with Alice Cooper Oct. 24, 8 p.m. The architect of “shock rock” presents dark and horror-themed theatrics. Coronado PAC, coronadopac.org. 'Jekyll & Hyde' Oct. 24-Nov. 3, see website for times. Robert Louis Stevenson’s story of a London lawyer who investigates strange occurrences between his old friend, Dr. Henry Jekyll, and the evil Edward Hyde. Stage Coach Players, DeKalb, Ill., stagecoachers.com. RSO: Romeo & Juliet Oct. 27, 7:30 p.m. Featuring pianist David Syme, with music from Prokofiev, Rachmaninoff, Tippett and Paul Ben-Haim. RSO, Coronado PAC, (815) 965-0049, rockfordsymphony.com. 'War of the Worlds' Oct. 31, 7 p.m. Originally performed in 1938, the radio drama simulates a live broadcast, with news flashes and eyewitness accounts of the alarming invasion by
Enjoy Monroe Swiss Fest on Nov. 5.
Martians. Stage One, JPAC, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org. 'Chicago' Nov. 2, 7:30 p.m. Winner of 6 Tony awards, the Broadway musical is a universal tale of fame, fortune and all that jazz. Coronado PAC, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org. Avalon String Quartet Nov. 4, 3 p.m. Lecture at 2 p.m. Returning for their eighth season, the quartet features works by Mendelssohn. MPAC, Mendelssohn Hall, Rockford, (815) 9649713, mendelssohnpac.org. Monroe Swissfest Nov. 5, 2 p.m. A longtime Monroe tradition, this program features an afternoon of Green County’s finest Swiss folk choirs and performers. Turner Hall of Monroe, 1217 17th Ave., Monroe, Wis., (608) 325-3461, turnerhallofmonroe.org. John Denver Tribute Nov. 10, 7 p.m. Chip Messiner’s vocals are a remarkable match for the legendary singer/ songwriter. Spring Creek UCC, Rockford, (815) 877-2576, springcreekucc.org. RSO: Old War Poems Nov. 10, 7:30 p.m. John Borling, Maj. Gen., USAF (ret.) narrates to the music of Copland and Hyden; with the Mendelssohn Chorale. RSO, Coronado PAC, Rockford, (815) 9650049, rockfordsymphony.com. AE: “Five Women Wearing the Same Dress” Nov. 15-18, Thur.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun 2 p.m. Having survived an elaborate wedding ceremony, five bridesmaids seek refuge from the ostentatious reception, spending the afternoon in a bedroom on the bride’s estate. Artists’ Ensemble, Rockford U., (815) 226-4100, artistsensemble.org. ❚
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Taco Betty’s Offers Tasty, Trendy Fare
By Jermaine Pigee
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ocated at 212 E. State St., this trendy, casual downtown Rockford restaurant takes its name from the nickname that investor Brent Hughes uses for his wife, Betsy Branca. Hughes and coinvestor John Bross came up with the concept for Taco Betty’s in 2014. Chef Paul Sletten is president of the company and handles daily operations. The entrance to Taco Betty’s faces State Street near the Rock River and the restaurant has an open design and large windows that bring in loads of natural light. Diners have a front-seat view of Rockford City Market in summertime and downtown Rockford year-round. The goal of this restaurant is to serve tasty food, not necessarily authentic Mexican fare, says manager Dann Shallenberger. “A lot of people say this is not an authentic Mexican restaurant, but we never tried to be that,” Shallenberger
says. “We just want to make fun, unique tacos.” Among signature offerings are pork and pineapple tacos made with chilebrined pork, roasted pineapple, cilantro and onion and crispy fish tacos with roasted corn, dried chiles, cheese, avocado lime mayo, cilantro and onion. Tacos come in pairs for lunch and threesomes for dinner. They’re served with smoked black beans and rice, house pickles and salsa. Additional flavor combinations come and go throughout the year. Other items on the menu include chips and guacamole, chicken taquitos, chicken verde nachos and taco salad. The kitchen inside Taco Betty’s is exposed, so your food is made right in front of you. Executive Chef Quinn Lawyer oversees what happens in the kitchen. The restaurant continues to evolve,
Backyard Grill & Bar Casual/American. 5390 Elevator Road, Roscoe, Ill., (815) 623-6677. 2nd St., Loves Park, Ill., (815) 6369430. LD M-Th 11am-midnight, F-Sat to 2am, Sun noon-10 p.m. $-SS. Bravo Pizza Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, South Beloit, Ill., (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $. Capital House Lunches, fine dining, sushi bar, gourmet coffee & pastries, martini bar. 308 W. State St., Rockford, (815) 708-8989. LD T-Th 11am-10pm, Fri.-Sat. 11 am-10pm. $-$$$. Ciao Bella Ristorante Upscale-Casual/Italian-American. Daily specials. 6500 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, Ill. (815) 654-9900. LD M-F 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 5-10 p.m. $$ Cucina di Rosa Italian Bistro/Bakery 1620 Bell School Road, (815) 395-5040. BkLD. M-Sat 7am-9pm. $$ Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant Casual/Mexican. 5855 E. State St., (815) 227-4979. LD $-$$. Fresco at the Gardens. Casual/American Café. 318 Spring Creek Road, (815) 316-2256. BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$ Giordano’s Casual/Italian. Stuffed pizza, salads, entrees, sandwiches, desserts. 33 Executive Parkway, Rockford, (815) 26
Smart Living Weekly
with more made-from-scratch items being added over time. “Pretty much everything we serve is made in-house,” says Shallenberger. The restaurant opens daily at 11 a.m. The kitchen is open Sun.-Thurs. until 10 p.m. and until midnight on Fri.-Sat. ❚
In the Spotlight
Top Picks for Local Restaurants Baci’s Kitchen Fast-Casual, dine-in, carry-out. 2990 N. Perryville Road, inside A Perryville Place. (815) 329-6922. Open 7 days/wk. at 8 a.m. BkLD. Complete menu at Baciskitchen.com.
Dann Shallenberger mixes margaritas from juice squeezed fresh daily.
398-5700. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11 pm. GreenFire Upscale-Casual/American contemporary. Live entertainment. 6795 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, (815) 3163473. BkLD M-F 11am, Sat-Sun 8am. Bar open late. $$$. Hearthrock Cafe Restaurant/cafe. Baked goods, coffee, breakfast, lunch. Inside Benson Stone Co., 1100 11th St., (815) 227-2000. BkL M-F 7:30am-3pm; Sat. 8am-3pm. $-$$. Maciano’s Pizza & Pastaria Casual. Pizza, Italian favorites, beer & wine. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, (815) 633-7500; and 5801 Columbia Pkwy., Rockford, (815) 2275577. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $$. Olympic Tavern Upscale-Casual/American. 2327 N. Main St., (815) 962-8758. Extensive beer list. LD M-Th 11 a.m.-midnight; Fri-Sat. to 2 a.m. $-$$. Prairie Street Brewhouse Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$. Rock Cut Concessions Casual American. BkLD. Daily 8 a.m.-7 p.m., open to 9 p.m. on Friday for fish fry. Taco Betty’s Casual/Mexican-American. 212 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 977-5650. LD Daily 11am-1am. $$. Union Dairy Ice cream treats, grill food. Locally sourced. 126 E. Douglas, Freeport. LD Daily 11am-10 pm. Grill closed Sundays and after 8 pm. $$. ❚
Oct. 17
To advertise call 815-316-2300
Merrill & Houston's Steak Joint
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ocated at 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, inside the Ironworks Hotel, the restaurant features mouthwatering steaks, along with a full-service menu of fish, chicken and and seafood selections. Named after the men whose 1858 foundry became Beloit Corp., Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint celebrates Beloit's rich industrial history. Many of its components are constructed with repurposed materials salvaged from historic buildings. Leather seats, hardwood floors and many historical photographs lining the walls give the space a rustic feel. Merrill & Houston's is available for private and corporate events. The main dining room seats 120 and the banquet room can accommodate 200 guests. Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint is open daily at 4 p.m. ❚
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Being Legally Proactive Can Save You Money By Janine Pumilia
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ttorney James Meason has practiced law in some of the largest cities of the country. But opening his own practice in Rockton, Ill., in 1997, was one of the best decisions he ever made. “By being a small-town attorney, I can really help people,” he says. His services include family law, estate planning, real estate, business law, mediation and environmental law. He takes pride in providing what clients need – and not selling them what they don’t need. “I grew up in a working class neighborhood of Chicago, went to public school and was the first person in my family to attend college,” he says. “I know how hard people work. I hate to see how some attorneys complicate things in order to charge more money. Sometimes they build you a lunar module when all you need is a minivan.” Before coming to Rockton, Meason
Attorney James Meason
was a top attorney at the national firm Hinshaw & Culbertson, where he defended companies charged with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) violations. Before that, he worked as a federal attorney prosecuting companies for EPA violations. Meason earned his Master’s in International Relations from Georgetown University and was working 13-hour shifts at the Pentagon for the Joint Chiefs of Staff of Naval Intelligence when he decided to earn his law degree by attend-
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ing night school at American University. He discovered that he loved the law. “People can save a lot of money if they’re proactive about consulting an attorney at key times in their lives,” he says. “You wouldn’t believe the messes people find themselves in because they didn’t do this when setting up a business or closing a real estate transaction, for example.” There are simple things people should know, but don’t, he says. “Many people own homes valued at more than $100,000 but don’t realize that an estate of more than $100,000 will go through Illinois probate unless a trust has been set up,” he says. “Or they think that being married automatically gives the spouse power of attorney. It doesn’t.” Meason’s office manager is Elizabeth “Tess” Whitaker, who is a mediator and paralegal. The practice is located at 113 N. Main St., Rockton. Learn more at measonlaw.com. ❚
Smart Living Weekly
Oct. 17
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Smart Living Weekly
Oct. 17
To advertise call 815-316-2300
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