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Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Freeport 95¢ • Jan. 20, 2016

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Right in Our Region

Mendelssohn Celebrates 131 Years

By Sarah Soenke, deputy editor

etween downtown Rockford’s Main and Church streets, a block-wide, three-building campus hosts a performing arts community 131 years in the making. This year’s season brings a wide range of genres and performers to the Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, along with a few special events.

The Avalon String Quartet returns at 3 p.m. on Feb. 28 for the third performance in a four-part program, titled “Celebrating Russian Composers.” The concert is just one in this season’s Main Stage Series, which includes the center’s most popular concerts by renowned musicians on the Mendelssohn Hall stage. Continued on p. 20

Live a Better Quality of Life Reading & Using Smart Living Weekly Proudly Serving the Needs of 326,000 Neighbors - For Your Home, Health & Fun! A New You Before Summer • Getting to Know Your Car • Education Focus: Allegro Academy All About Eye Floaters • Wedding Venue of the Week: Beloit Club • Perfect Popcorn Recipes

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 22 Music at Mendelssohn Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Light Up your Home Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Finding Peace Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Perfect Popcorn Recipes New You for 2016 ..............................................17 Ready for Bikini Weather? Your Auto ................................................. ........ 16 Read your Manual! Your Health ............................................. .......... 25 All About Eye Floaters Your Fun ................................................... ......... 27

Wedding Guide ................................................. 29 Beloit Club School Guide .............................................. ......33 Allegro Academy and Learning Center

Smart L iving Weekly â&#x201E;˘

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Janine Pumilia Deputy Editor Sarah Soenke Assistant Editor Lindsey Gapen Senior Staff Writer/Promotions Coordinator Paul Anthony Arco Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Ryan Contributing Writers Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes General Manager/Northwest Business Magazine Dave Marino Account Executives Brian Hughes Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Website www.NWQSmartLiving.com Published by Hughes Media Corp. 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 Smart Living Weekly. Copyright 2016 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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Jan. 20

Surviving the Blitz

oday daughter Rebecca, age 24, is shopping for plastic containers to use for storing her Christmas decor. Not by coincidence, this comes one day after she spent a whole afternoon helping me to sift and sort, lift and tote, toss, pack and label Christmas decor that was stored in mouse-eaten cardboard boxes and lidless plastic tubs in my attic. I’ve collected it over 30 years and most of it looks like it survived the Nazi Luftwaffe Christmas Blitz of 1940. “Do me a favor and pick a brand of plastic boxes and stick with it the rest of your life so the lids will all fit,” I tell her. “Not doing this is one of the great regrets of my life. This may be one of the best pieces of advice I’ll ever give to you.” “You’re too melodramatic,” she tells me, but that jumble of 342 plastic containers and 472 plastic lids (not one of the former matching the latter) tells the sad story. Thanks to her help, our attic is now neatly organized and about 800 lbs. lighter. I will never miss those melted wax Santas or the 182 strings of lights I was going to “fix someday.” Getting organized is one of those instincts that hits hard each January, sort of like the urge to get fit. Along those lines, our New You series of articles offers tips on everything from becoming healthier to gaining self confidence in your appearance through plastic surgery. In our other special guides this season, you’ll find tips on choosing a great wedding venue and selecting the right school for your child. Both decisions are important and require a good deal of “comparison shopping.” We hope our articles make that task a bit easier. You can sign up for a free digital subscription to Smart Living Weekly by going to NWQSmart Living.com. It's cold outside, so why not take on some projects? Have fun getting organized and may all of your containers have forever matching lids! ❚ Janine Pumilia Executive Editor Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Jan. 20

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Lighting Gallery Offers ‘Jewelry for the Home’ By Lindsey Gapen

roper lighting plays an important role in the aesthetics of a home. In fact, lighting department manager Michael McGinty from Benson Stone Co., 1100 Eleventh St., Rockford, refers to lighting as “jewelry for the home.” “You can spend a lot of money on paint, flooring, cabinets and furniture, but if your home is poorly lit, it will never look its best,” McGinty says. “Proper lighting is essential for a beautiful and functional home.” Staff members at Benson Stone Co. can assist you in picking out the proper lighting for your home. The expansive new lighting department on the fourth floor showcases chandeliers, pendant lights, wall sconces, floor lamps, outdoor fixtures, landscape lighting and more. There’s a lighting style for everyone, from traditional to contemporary.

“Crystal is making a big comeback,” McGinty says. “It’s not your grandmother’s crystal chandelier anymore – we’re seeing a lot of contemporary pieces that I’ll call ‘lightly dressed.’ It’s not a heavy crystal piece, but it has a little accent of crystal on it.” And there are other trends. “On the opposite side of the spectrum, people are choosing the reclaimed urban-warehouse style,” says store owner Andy Benson. “You’ll see a lot of these Edison-style bulbs for a more industrial look.” Benson Stone Co.’s showroom is organized around the style and finish of the fixture. Lights of all sizes and price ranges are available. “Customers have a lot of options here,” Benson says. “I think this showroom helps to emphasize, more than ever

before, that we are a one-stop shop. You can discover a full breadth of products here. It’s convenient to be able to find the right lighting to go with your new kitchen, sofa or dining room table all right here in one store.” ❚

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

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I  W

Finding Peace I

t’s not like we risk our lives just to catch supper anymore. We live in one of the safest time periods and societies ever, enjoying average lifespans undreamed of just a century ago. Why, then, does high anxiety take such a toll on modern individuals? Jesus Christ taught us there are two kinds of personal peace: the kind found in the world, and the kind found in him. The ﬁrst depends upon on factors often beyond our control. The second is rooted in our faith; no one can take inner peace from us, although we can choose to relinquish it. Shortly before he was betrayed, Jesus began preparing his disciples for the terrible events that would follow. He understood their fear and anxiety. “Let not your heart be troubled: you believe in God, believe also in me.” (John 14:1) Clearly upset, the disciples asked him questions. Jesus explained that after he would leave the earth, “the Comforter” would come to dwell with them. “Even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it sees him not, neither knows him: but you know him; for he dwells in you and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless. I will come to you. Yet a little while and the world sees me no more; but you see me: because I live, you shall live also.” (John 14:17-19). Why would Jesus Christ ask his followers not to be troubled, unless it was possible to do so? “Peace I leave with you,” he says a few verses later in 14:27. “My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” Many more scriptures speak of the “peace that passes understanding” given to us by Jesus Christ, which is rooted in the hope of his return and the knowledge that we have eternal life through his grace. “These things I have spoken to you that in me you might have peace,” he says in John 16:33. “In the world you will have tribulation: But be of good cheer: I have overcome the world.” ❚ – Janine Pumilia

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Perfect, Healthy Pops for Every Occasion N

o matter what events you have on your social calendar, you can pop up delicious treats that are sure to be a hit. Sweet, spicy, salty or served in more non-traditional ways, the possibilities are endless, and perfect for everything from date night or family movie night to a kids’ party. And since it’s healthy and whole grain – being naturally low in fat and calories – popcorn is a satisfying snack suitable for every occasion that you can feel good about serving.

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Cheesy Pepperoni Popcorn Yield: 6-8 cups

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup nonfat Parmesan cheese • 2 teaspoons garlic powder • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano • 1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram leaves • 1/4 teaspoon dried basil leaves • 1/8 teaspoon dried sage • 12 cups popped popcorn • 3/4 cup bite-size turkey pepperoni • olive oil cooking spray

Directions: In small bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, marjoram, basil,

sage and pepper; mix well. Place cooked popcorn and turkey pepperoni in large bowl; spray lightly with cooking spray. Sprinkle popcorn and pepperoni with cheese mixture and toss to coat evenly. ❚ Source: Family Features

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Perfect, Healthy Pops for Every Occasion N

Cookies ‘N Cream Popcorn Yield: 12 cups

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Information Matters in Good Car Care By Peggy Werner

t’s been said that the least-read book is anyone’s car manual. Take a look at that manual and you’ll not only learn how to operate some of the features of the car, but you’ll also get tips on how to most safely drive it and care for it. You’ll also ﬁnd recommendations for service and maintenance. Ken Tomlinson, owner of AutoEnhancers, 515 18th Ave., says the biggest problem he sees in his shop is that people don’t take the time to do regular maintenance on their vehicles. “More often than not, people don’t pay attention to normal, routine maintenance that needs to be done on a car,” he says. “And even worse, if something goes wrong, they sometimes ignore the signs that can lead to other problems, if not taken care of.”

Smart Living Weekly

Tomlinson says it’s best to ﬁnd an auto mechanic you like and trust and go in at least quarterly to have the car looked over to check the brakes, belts, ﬂuids, hoses, tires and suspension, and to look for any leaks. Waiting until something is not working right is never a good idea. “I’ve had people come in saying something is not right and their oil looks like mud. Oil is the lifeblood of the car and, if you don’t change it regularly, it can cause your car to overheat, clog up and wear down more quickly,” he says. Tomlinson believes in changing oil every 3,000 miles, even though some manufacturers recommend less often. It’s debatable whether synthetic oils are really better for cars, he says.

Jan. 20

“Manufacturer recommendations are only guidelines. What you need is a mechanic that knows you, your driving habits, and knows your car. Not everyone drives the same or takes care of their car in the same way, and all this information is important to keep your vehicle running well,” he says. ❚

A N Y  

Now’s the Time to Get Summer-Ready By Paul Anthony Arco

f you’ve been considering a tummy tuck or facelift, now may be the best time to get it done. “This is the time of the year people are thinking of spring vacations, taking cruises and planning for summer – the time to plan for bikinis and swimsuits,” says Dr. Sarah Hagarty, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon at OSF Healthcare. In 2014, nearly 16 million cosmetic procedures were performed in the U.S. and nearly 92 percent were performed on women. Among the most common were breast augmentation, body Dr. Sarah Hagarty

We’re bringing remarkable care home to you... Residency: Orthopaedic Surgery, Northwestern University/ McGaw Medical Center, Chicago, IL, 2014

contouring, nasal and eyelid surgery, says Hagarty. “The industry has seen many advances in technology,” she says. “We have more demand for minimally invasive procedures that don’t require a lot of down time. Popular quick fixes for the face can be found with fillers, Botox, peels and other procedures to improve the contour and texture of skin. Also in vogue now is the short scar or mini facelift. A full facelift can mean 2 or 3 weeks of bruising, swelling and wearing big sunglasses and a floppy hat. The in-office short scar facelift requires no fasting or anesthesia. Mini facelifts can improve the most obvious signs of aging in the cheek, jawline and neck and are especially popular with patients in their 40s and 50s who don’t have a severe amount of excess skin in those areas.

“It’s a shorter procedure that’s intended for patients who are experiencing early sagging in the lower face,” says Hagarty. “It’s a shorter scar and done in a more targeted area. Improvements can endure 10 years or more.” Hagarty recommends patients do their homework before committing to any procedure. Research doctors’ credentials and talk to people in the community who know their reputations. Look for plastic surgeons who are board certiﬁed by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons. Learn more at plasticsurgery.org. ❚

Welcome

Jamie Frantz, MD Sports Medicine/ Orthopaedic Surgery Dr. Frantz joins the Beloit Health System from Birmingham, AL. Dr. Frantz will be treating a wide range of orthopaedic conditions and injuries, with a special emphasis in the evaluation, prevention and treatment of sports and exerciserelated injuries. Dr. Frantz is currently accepting new patients.

Fellowship: Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Fellowship, American Sports Medicine Institute/Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center, Birmingham, AL, 2015

Frantz Welcome Northwest Quarterly.indd 1

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Mendelssohn Continued from Cover

“The Avalon String Quartet is the artist faculty string-quartet-in-residence at Northern Illinois University,” says Martha Dahlberg, Mendelssohn board president. “They came to us four years ago because they were playing a season at the Art Institute of Chicago. So now it’s a very exciting opportunity for us to have a world-class string quartet here on a seasonal basis.” Three other series guide the Mendelssohn season: Music on Main, Jazz@ Emerson and Charlotte’s Web. Music on Main celebrates brief, intimate concerts with classically inspired performances in the Emerson House. The Jazz@Emerson series focuses on classic and modern jazz, at 3 p.m. on the second Sunday of every month, in the same location. Charlotte’s Web rounds out Mendelssohn’s repertoire by bringing in folk, Americana and

singer-songwriter-inspired musical acts, with a focus on local musicians. “We try to update what we’ve done but still keep that historic element as well,” says Dahlberg. “The performance history of Mendelssohn and who has been here has always been pretty mind boggling, but we also like to bring in something new.” Mendelssohn is known for its postshow receptions after every concert, when audience members are invited to meet musicians and other guests to discuss the performance. “There are people who will drive from hours away just to have that specific experience, because they know they’ll meet the musicians,” says Mark West, Mendelssohn marketing coordinator. “When we had Corky Siegel’s Chamber Blues here on Sept. 25, one guest had seen him back in 1977 and had been holding onto his comment for 30 years, until he finally had the chance to share it with him one-on-one.”

In addition, this season’s cornerstone event will bring together modern music, theater, dance and the visual arts to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s life; the Bard departed this earth in April, 1616. An intimate Music on Main performance, titled “Songs of Shakespeare’s Era” is set for Feb. 29, a prelude to the main event, “Shakesperience: Legacy of the Bard.” This April 23 concert will be a collaborative event involving Mendelssohn, Rockford Dance Company, Rockford University’s

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R  O R Performing Arts Department, Rock Valley College’s Theater Department and more. Hosted by the Court Street United Methodist Church, the building’s wooden interior will add to the concert ambiance, as if it were unfolding at Queen Elizabeth I’s own court. “This is a little unusual for us, because this goes beyond the intimate concert experience that is our mission,” says Dahlberg. “But every two to three years we try to do a big event like this and

really pull the whole arts community together.” Youth musical education has been a cornerstone of Mendelssohn’s mission. Since 1961, the Chandler Starr Miller Scholarship Competition has given young musicians the chance to compete for monetary awards and to receive valuable feedback from professional judges. This year’s 55th annual competition on Feb. 20 is open to students ages 8-23, in 12 musical divisions. The following day, a Winner’s Recital will recognize all competitors and host special performances by each division winner. From intimate concerts to educational programs, Mendelssohn’s wide scope is a result of decades of development and planning, mixing historical traditions with new experimentations. What started on Oct. 4, 1884, as a simple, private gathering of local music enthusiasts has grown to become a multifaceted, public community organization spread over three campus buildings.

“Developing Mendelssohn with a campus mentality really was a goal that came out of a strategic plan we did about 15 years ago,” says Dahlberg. “Mendelssohn Hall is now a multi-use building, and we’re still trying to find out how to best utilize the space.” To continue growing, Mendelssohn hosts a night of Irish festivities every March to welcome support for the center’s programming. This year’s Irish Pub Night Fundraiser, set for March 4, features live Irish entertainment, a Meads Longwood Meat Market buffet, a Rockford Brewing Company cash bar, games, gift baskets and a raffle. “We’re the oldest community-based, nonprofit music club of its kind in the United States,” says Dahlberg. “The old saying is, ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day,’ and we’re certainly not in our final form.” Concert tickets may be purchased for individual shows, or in bulk through Mendelssohn’s FlexPass system, online at mendelssohnpac.org or at the door. ❚

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Jan. 20

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Jan. 20

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What You Should Know About Eye Floaters P art of smart living is taking good care of our bodies, including our eyesight. Here, Dr. Richard A. Miller, board-certified opthalmologist and owner of Miller Eye Center, 2995 Eastrock Dr., Rockford, answers questions about eyesight.

the middle-age years, often forming minute debris within the eye. Floaters are also more often noticed in people who are nearsighted (myopic), and those who have had cataract or Yttrium Argon Garnet (YAG) laser surgery.

Exactly What are Eye Floaters? Floaters are actually cellular debris within the vitreous, the jelly-like fluid that fills the inside of the eye. They may be seen as strings, streaks, clouds, bugs, dots, dust, or spider webs. They appear to be in front of the eye, but they are really floating in this fluid and, at the same time, casting their shadows on the retina, the light-sensing inner layer of the eye. The debris could be made up of blood, torn retinal tissue, inflammation, or vitreous scars, but the presence of floaters could also simply be a change in the vitreous as part of its normal aging. The vitreous fluid degenerates during

How Are Floaters Diagnosed? Floaters are usually nothing to worry about, being simply a result of the normal aging process. Most people will develop a prominent floater in their fifties to sixties. Nevertheless, it is recommended you see an eye specialist, as floaters could be associated with a serious eye disease such as retinal detachment. The vitreous covers the retina surface, and sometimes the retina is torn when degenerating vitreous is pulled away. This occasionally leads to a small amount of bleeding, which may be interpreted as a new cluster of darker floaters. A torn retina is serious and

could possibly develop into a retinal detachment. Consequently, any new floaters that appear should be seen and evaluated by a doctor. What Is the Treatment for Floaters? Though floaters can interfere with reading and be quite bothersome, there is no treatment or cure for floaters. They may, however, slowly fade out over time. In the meantime, if a floater appears, you can move your eyes up and down, which may cause the vitreous fluid to shift and help the floater move out of the line of vision. ❚

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Jan. 20

Experience Downtown Rockford

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Brews and Views Film Series: "Uncle Buck" Jan. 20, 7 p.m. Enjoy food and beer while watching "Uncle Buck." Hang out after to chat with fellow film fans. Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., Rockford, facebook.com/ TheElementRockford. Old Tankard Ale Tapping & Sampling Jan. 21, 6 p.m. Sample ale from Wisconsin Brewing Co. The Olympic Tavern, Rockford, (815) 9628758, facebook.com/theolympictavern. Severson Dells Concert: Aaron Lee Tasjan Jan. 22, 7 p.m., doors 6 p.m. Tasjan put out his first EP, "Crooked River Burning," in 2014, which reached No. 1 on the iTunes singer/ songwriter chart. Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road, Rockford, (815)335-2915, seversondells.org. Civil War Symposium Jan. 23, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. This year's symposium features experts on key Civil War battles and the contributions from Rockford soldiers. Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, (815) 397-9112, midwayvillage.com. Katie's Cup Music Series: Denise Lagrone Jan. 23, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Enjoy live music in a comfortable setting. Food and beverages available for purchase. Katie's Cup, 502 7th St., Rockford, (815) 986-0628, katiescup.com. Burns Scottish Supper Jan. 23, 5-10:30 p.m. Burns Suppers are held worldwide in January to honor Scottish poet Robert Burns. Enjoy cocktails, dinner and live entertainment. Reservation required. Hoffman House Restaurant, 7550 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 234-2840, rockfordburnsclub.com. "Art in the Lofts" Benefit Jan. 23, 6-8 p.m. Proceeds support the Rockford Area Arts Council. The evening includes a "mystery box" auction, beverages, appetizers, desserts and a drawing for donated artwork. Garrison Lofts, 419 John St., Rockford, (815) 963-6765, artsforeveryone.com. Rockford Rage Women's Roller Derby Jan. 23, 7 p.m., doors 6 p.m. Help celebrate a #DecadeOfDerby as the Rockford Rage takes on the Skunk River Riot. MercyRockford Sportscore 2 Indoor Sports Center, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, Ill., facebook.com/ pages/The-Rockford-Rage. Tell them you saw it in ...

Hike, snowshoe or ski a trail set with luminaries at Nygren Wetland Preserve on Jan. 25. Bonfire and hot beverages to follow.

The Year of Women in Science Jan. 24, 2-3 p.m. Dr. Ramona Cornea, an independent geologist, speaks on geological work to renew the environment from the ground up throughout Illinois. Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 965-3433, burpee.org. Full Moon Snowshoe & Hike Jan. 25, 4:30-8 p.m. Enjoy the natural setting of the prairies and wetlands under the full moon as you hike, snowshoe or ski a trail set with luminaries. Bonﬁre and hot beverages to follow. Nygren Wetland Preserve, 3190 W. Rockton Road, Rockton, Ill., (815) 964-6666, naturalLand. org. Music on Main: Scott Metlicka, Flute Jan. 25, 5:30 p.m. Experience beautiful music from RSO’s principal flute, mingle with RSO artists, enjoy a glass of wine and light refreshments, and have fun with your friends at this brief and intimate after-work concert with classically inspired performances. Emerson House, Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org. Full Moon Hike Jan. 25, 6 p.m. Bring cross-country skis, snowshoes or winter hiking boots and take in the beauty of the full moon. Big Hill Center, 1201 Big Hill Court, Beloit, (608) 361-1377, weltycenter.org. Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition Jan. 27-30, recurring daily. View massive works of snow art and vote for your favorite from 8:3011 a.m. on Jan. 30. Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. 2nd St., Rockford, (815) 987-8800, ilsnowsculpting. com. ❚

Smart Living Weekly

January 20

• Five pairs of tickets to Beloit International Film Festival showings* • One-night stay at the Ironworks Hotel** • $100 gift card to Merrill & Houstonʼs Steak Joint * Tickets may be used at any BIFF showing when seating is available. Find information on venues and showtimes at www.beloitfilmfest.org. * * Overnight is good for Friday, February 19th or Saturday, February 20th only. View hotel accommodations at www.ironworkshotel.com. Winner will be selected on Friday, February 12th. Now in its eleventh year, BIFF is a ten-day tribute to the power and excitement of independent film from around the world. Residents and visitors from across the nation fill venues in Downtown Beloit to experience more than 100 films and meet filmmakers who come from as far away as Europe, Asia and South America! Tickets are available at www.beloitfilmfest.org.

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Enter online at http://ow.ly/Xfd7A or complete the form below and mail to: Visit Beloit, Attn: Film Fest • 500 Public Ave., Beloit, WI 53511 Name ___________________________________ Email ___________________________________ Phone ___________________________________ 28

www.visitbeloit.com 608.365.4838 Smart Living Weekly

Jan. 20

*All forms must be postmarked by Feb. 9th, 2016

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Beloit Club Offers Hilltop Views, Elegance By Lindsey Gapen

ith a charming brand-new building, Beloit Club is ready to host dream weddings. Formerly known as Country Club of Beloit, this enchanting venue rests on a hilltop overlooking an 18-hole golf course, which wedding parties can utilize for photo opportunities or even a game of golf during the wedding weekend. “Beloit Club broke ground just a few months prior to the old club house coming down in March 2014,” says Amanda Barlass, the event coordinator. “What a transformation, all within less than a year.” The main entrance, which is wheelchair accessible, has a large chandelier shining above a grand staircase leading up to the main banquet hall. Natural light floods the space, which has a full bar tucked to the side of the room and a balcony facing the back, where there’s an

expansive view of the patio, golf course and an additional rentable green space that’s perfect for wedding ceremonies. To the left of the main banquet hall, large wooden doors slide open to reveal the breakout room, a setting that can comfortably fit up to 40 people. A stone fireplace adds a cozy touch. “This room is great for rehearsal dinners, intimate weddings or other events,” Barlass says. Only just inaugurated, the new Beloit Club is receiving reservations for wedding ceremonies, receptions and rehearsal dinners a year in advance. Many club amenities are available for members only, but the facility’s three floors, totaling up to 24,000 square feet of gathering space, can be booked by the general public for events large or small. “You can have a group of 16 people in one of our smaller rooms, or you

can have up to 250 guests in our main banquet hall,” says Ken McIntyre, the general manager. “The best thing to do is come see the place yourself, and, of course, meet Amanda, who will work with you to achieve your vision. Don’t imagine something can’t be done here.” Beloit Club offers delicious on-site catering, including the wedding cake. The head chef, Jeff King, can serve anything on the menu or create something new based on the bride and groom’s preferences. “We know that everyone has an individual taste, so we’re not a cookie-cutter club that just rolls stuff out,” McIntyre says. “We can give you something off the menu, or we can accommodate requests.” Beloit Club’s banquet space includes tables and chairs, standard linens, linen napkins, china service, glassware and silverware. ❚

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Jan. 20

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Pricing Selling The Most Powerful Tool For Buying Your Next Home The Gambino Realtors Mobile App! Access to the most comprehensive and accurate real estate listings is now at your fingertips. Download it today from the App Store! Type in Gambino Realtors and download.

1.815.282.2222

Mortgage Advisor 15 Yr Fixed

Lenders Byron Bank

Rate

byronbank.com

APR*

3.05%

(815) 234-2561 Mo. Payment* $1,121.14 3.429%

30 Yr Fixed

30 Yr Jumbo FHA/VA & ARM

3.86%

3.625%

$668.87

$661.24

4.409%

4.674%

Please Call

Smart Living Weekly Magazine’s Mortgage Advisor is intended to provide you with a guide to securing the mortgage you seek. Quoted rates are supplied by the institutions (as of Jan. 18, 2016) and can change daily. Interest rates and monthly payment installments are based on a $150,000 loan with a 5% down payment and 0 points; FHA with a 3.5% down payment and 0 points. APR is based on a good faith estimate of prepaid finance charges. Your APR will vary according to the specifics of your transactions. Contact the bank, credit union or S&L directly for their most current rates. The mortgage rate you obtain will be based upon your credit rating, loan amount and standing with that particular financial institution. * APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Mo. Payment = The monthly principal and interest payment.

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e-Subscribe to Smart Living Weekly Now! You Will Be Automatically Entered into This Week’s Giveaway! Save Smarter • Live Better • Every Week

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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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A Visit To Allegro Academy and Learning Center

his non-denominational Christian school and childcare center at 6413 Forest Hills Road has been providing educational service to the Rockford area for more than 30 years. Allegro Academy offers a PreK through 8th grade curriculum that’s recognized by the Illinois State Board of Education, while Allegro Learning Center, a DCFS-licensed daycare facility, offers daycare to children ages 6 months to 6 years, including before- and after-school programs, summer programs and care on school holidays. “Our summer program is awesome,” says Jean Marie McCormack, principal. “We help children to keep up their reading and writing skills throughout summer, but also take two ﬁeld trips per week, one of them to a swimming pool.” The Allegro environment is just the right size to make sure every child gets ample attention. “Allegro is locally owned and has

more of a family feel than a big corporate feel,” says McCormack. “We know all of the children here. If there’s an issue, there’s someone on the property who really knows and cares about that child.” In fact, many of the teachers choose to enroll their own children here. “That’s how confident they are of the quality of care and education children receive.” In its school curriculum, Allegro Academy offers a strong core along with an emphasis on the arts. “What sets us apart is the way we’ve integrated fine arts instruction for all students,” says McCormack. “Movement and music, art, and Bible curriculum is taught throughout the week, starting in preschool. We tailor the educational experience to the child, to accommodate individual learning styles.” Allegro offers a unique combination of progressive and advanced academics and fine arts. Programs include visual arts, music, accelerated/gifted programs,

athletics, after-school programs, clubs and extracurricular activities. Facilities include a science lab, gymnasium, dance studio and music room. “We’re passionate about children progressing according to their abilities and not merely age,” says McCormack. “Each child is assessed and allowed to run on his or her strengths in language arts and mathematics.” A Christian perspective is part of the academic program, including daily prayer, Friday chapel and Bible curriculum taught four days of the week. ❚

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Jan. 20

Smart Living Weekly

Issue 1