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Right in Our Region

Five Days of Fun at Petunia Festival

By Lindsey Gapen

T

he five-day, 51st annual Petunia Festival in Dixon, Ill., will begin with time travel and end with fireworks this year, starting July 1. Live entertainment, a carnival, fireworks, parade and daily pancake breakfasts are just the beginning.

“The festival is an event that not only the

Dixon community looks forward to, but the entire Sauk Valley region,” says Ashley Trueblood, the festival’s vice president of marketing.

“From the much-anticipated headline entertainment to classic events like craft fairs and Family Fun Night, the Petunia Festival has something for everyone and remains a favorite in the area.”

Continued on p. 20

• Get All the SAVINGS You Deserve from Local Businesses North End City Market • Scoliosis Awareness • DIY Car Care Tips Tasty Salads • Update Your Kitchen • Be Good to Your Toilet

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Get In Quicker Convenient Care and Emergency Department Scheduling

RHSInQuicker.org

GO TO:

You can reserve your spot at one of four Convenient Care locations or the Rockford Memorial Hospital Emergency Department.  Fill out the online form.  Wait in the comfort of your home.  Arrive at your projected treatment time.

ROCKFORD HEALTH PHYSICIANS CONVENIENT CARE Rockford – 3401 N. Perryville Road M-F: 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. • Sat-Sun: Noon to 8 p.m.

Rockford – 2300 N. Rockton Avenue M-F: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. • Sat: 8 a.m. to noon

Belvidere – 1747 Henry Luckow Lane M-F: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. • Sat: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Roscoe – 5000 Prairie Rose Drive M-Th: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. • Sun: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

EMERGENCY CARE - 24/7 Rockford Memorial Hospital Emergency Department • 2400 N. Rockton Avenue

If you have a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

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In This Issue Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 20 Dixon Petunia Festival Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Kitchen Remodel Tips Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Canticle of the Sun Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Jazzed Up Salads and Sandwiches Your Outing .......................................................17 North End Market Expands Your Health ............................................. .......... 25 Scoliosis Awareness Your Fun ................................................... ......... 27

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 29 Pearl Bistro Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 29

Tips ........................................................... ......... 31 Take Care of Your Toilet Your Money .............................................. ......... 33 Save Dollars with DIY Car Care Tips

Smart L iving Weekly ™

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 Rachel Shore, Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes General Manager/Northwest Business Magazine Dave Marino Account Executives Brian Hughes, Kimberly Perkins Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Website www.NWQSmartLiving.com Published by Hughes Media Corp.

222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 Smart Living Weekly.

Copyright 2015 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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June 24

Bored or Boring?

W

hen my mom taught freshman English at Harlem High, her students quickly learned one thing never to say in front of Mrs. Huffman. It wasn’t a swear word, though she didn’t abide those, either.

It was the phrase, “I’m bored. There’s nothing to do in this town.” Any kid who uttered that sentiment was given the “People who are bored are choosing to be boring people” speech. “Do you expect someone to come along and entertain you every minute?” she’d ask. “Anyone worth his salt will go find things to do.”

In her day as a farmer’s teen daughter, Mom read books, attended local dances and live concerts, and occasionally rode the Interurban train to downtown Rockford for a Chinese meal at the Mandarin Garden “for a quarter,” followed by a show at one of Rockford’s nine thriving movie palaces.

She was right, of course. And the number of options today is nearly overwhelming, no matter what your interests. In live music concerts alone, a person could find one nearly every night of the week, many of them free.

Throw in musical theater and other theater and I know every night is covered. Thanks to our local park districts and forest preserves, there are roughly 14 zillion options for activity, from water sports to team sports to equestrian options, hiking, camping, canoing and something new (to me, at least) called “footgolf.” If you prefer to watch rather than play, take in a Ski Broncs performance or a local baseball game.

Gardeners have some of the best gardens and arboretums in the nation to wander and learn from. Farmers markets are thriving and expanding; local observatories beckon visitors to see the night skies; our libraries, museums, churches, endless civic groups and artsy folks are always doing something cool. Add in fairs and festivals, like the one detailed on our cover, and there’s hardly a moment to spare.

Bored or boring?

Enjoy your exciting week! ❚ Janine Pumilia Executive Editor Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

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We’ re here , fo r yo u.

Area’s best in patient safety FHN Memorial Hospital was recently recognized for a second year for our patient safety record by the world’s largest independent, non-profit product-

We at FHN are committed to a safe patient experience, and are proud that

and service-testing organization. In their second U.S. study, in which safety scores were calculated for nearly 2,000 hospitals, only 6% nationwide – and only four hospitals in Illinois – earned a score

FHN Memorial Hospital, which scored higher than any other hospital close to the communities it serves.*

as high or higher as

It is our goal to offer our communities the best possible healthcare services we can provide, and recognition such as this confirms our commitment to your confidence in our processes and capabilities.

Whether you need surgery, cancer treatment or other specialty care close to home, a hand in welcoming a new baby into your life, help in handling a chronic health condition, or emergency care,

choose the best in the area for patient safety: FHN.

For more information, visit www.fhn.org or call 1-877-6000-FHN (1-877-600-0346).

* Within a 50-mile radius of Freeport

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Y H  G

Your Kitchen: Always the Heart of the Home

By Kimberly Watley

S

o you’re ready to update your kitchen, but you’re not sure where to start.

Diane Feuillerat, owner of Kitchens by Diane, 6346 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, suggests bringing your designer some pictures or ideas from magazines or the Internet, to provide an indication of your preferred style.

“I’ll ask, too, that they bring in existing kitchen photos,” she says. “I’ll look at the space they have and use it to the best of my ability. Dimensions and ideas on what to incorporate are helpful but not imperative; we will come out to the home to see if there is any major reworking of the space needed.”

Once an initial consultation is complete, a designer will provide drawings, project board sketches or computerized renditions of the finished project. This gives clients an opportunity to make changes well in advance of construction and materials purchase.

Time constraints need to be considered early on. Planning well in advance of holidays or entertaining is essential.

All contractors will wait on demolition and construction until the cabinets have been delivered, which can take several weeks. This prevents a kitchen from being in disarray any longer than necessary. It’s important to inspect cabinets as soon as they arrive. If damage isn’t noticed until contractors are ready to hang them, the project can be significantly delayed.

A big trend in kitchens is to conceal as much as possible (such as garbage cans and appliances), to provide a streamlined look.

Making cabinet interiors as functional as possible is also on trend.

“People like wide, deep drawers to store pots and pans for easier access,” says Feuillerat. For countertops, granite continues to be highly sought after, and quartz runs a tight second in popularity.

Kitchens by Diane prides itself on using only Americanmade products.

Feuillerat says her clients often ask what their return on investment will be, once a renovation is complete.

“It used to be 75 to 100 percent back, but it all rides on the housing market,” she says. “Still, no matter what market we’re in, the kitchen is always the heart of the home.” ■

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I  W

‘Canticle of the Sun’

Last Wednesday, Pope Francis published a letter to church Bishops titled “Laudato Si,” or “Praised be You,” taken from “Canticle of the Sun,” which was written in 1224, in Italian, by the Pope’s namesake, Saint Francis of Assisi. Pope Francis devoted much of his letter to the subject of caring for our earth. Here, we reprint “Canticle of the Sun.”

M

ost high, all powerful, all good Lord!

All praise is Yours, all glory, all honor, and all blessing.

To You, alone, Most High, do they belong.

No mortal lips are worthy to pronounce Your name.

Be praised, my Lord, through all Your creatures, especially through my lord Brother Sun, who brings the day; and You give light through him.

And he is beautiful and radiant in all his splendor!

Of You, Most High, he bears the likeness.

Be praised, my Lord, through Sister Moon and the stars; in the heavens You have made them bright, precious and beautiful.

Be praised, my Lord, through Brothers Wind and Air, and clouds and storms, and all the weather, through which You give Your creatures sustenance.

Be praised, my Lord, through Sister Water; she is very useful, and humble, and precious, and pure.

Be praised, my Lord, through Brother Fire, through whom You brighten the night.

He is beautiful and cheerful, and powerful and strong.

Be praised, my Lord, through our sister Mother Earth, who feeds us and rules us, and produces various fruits with colored flowers and herbs.

Be praised, my Lord, through those who forgive for love of You; through those who endure sickness and trial.

Happy those who endure in peace, for by You, Most High, they will be crowned.

Be praised, my Lord, through our sister Bodily Death, from whose embrace no living person can escape.

Woe to those who die in mortal sin!

Happy those she finds doing Your most holy will.

The second death can do no harm to them.

Praise and bless my Lord, and give thanks, and serve Him with great humility. ■ 12

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Y Y K K

A Flavorful Twist on Salads & Sandwiches P erk up your next picnic with these deliciously different sandwiches and salads that are super easy to prepare and can be made ahead.

Condiments make the difference between a good sandwich and a great sandwich. Grab a jar of Aunt Nellie’s Sliced Pickled Beets. Their sweettangy homemade flavor makes them a perfect base for quick relish to embellish all kinds of sandwiches.

For a Greek-inspired relish, chop and toss the beets with marinated artichoke hearts and olives. Add to a basic turkey sandwich for a gourmet twist. Wrap up brunch favorites smoked salmon and cream cheese in a flour tortilla with a chopped pickled beet-red onion-caper relish. Delicious!

Pantry staples, such as READ 3 or 4 Bean Salad and German Potato Salad are handy head starts to fabulous salads. A can of bean salad, cooked tortellini, veggies and basil pesto make a picnic-perfect salad in minutes. German potato salad paired with grainy mustard and sliced steak becomes a rustic entree salad to serve atop convenient packaged greens.

For additional recipes and serving suggestions, visit auntmellies.com or READsalads.com.

Picnic-Wiches With Greek Artichoke-Beet Relish (Servings: 6) 1 jar (16 oz.) Aunt Nellie’s Sliced Pickled Beets 1 jar (about 6 oz.) marinated artichoke hearts 1/2 cup pitted kalamata or ripe olives, sliced 3 TB sliced green onions Freshly ground black pepper 6 romaine lettuce leaves 1 lb. thinly sliced deli turkey 6 ciabatta or sandwich rolls, sliced horizontally in half 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted

Drain beets and artichoke hearts, reserving 1/4 cup liquid from each.

Coarsely chop. Combine beets, artichokes, olives and green onions in medium bowl; set aside.

Whisk together reserved beet and artichoke liquids in small bowl. Pour over beet mixture; toss gently to coat.

Season with black pepper, if desired.

Layer lettuce and turkey on bottom halves of rolls.

Top with relish, feta cheese and pine nuts. Top with remaining halves of rolls.

Wrap tightly; chill up to 4 hours until ready to serve. Serve with remaining relish. Enjoy! ■ (Source: Family Features)

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MEET ME AT THE MARKET! Fridays | May 22 – Oct 2 | Downtown Rockford 3:30 – 8:30 p.m. (3:30 – 7:30 p.m. after Labor Day)

rockfordcitymarket.com

Don’t miss the North End City Market!

Saturdays | May 16 – Oct 31 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Auburn & Main St. Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

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Y O

Tradition Continues at North End City Market

By Rachel Shore

F

or 20 years it was known as the North End Commons Market, but the Saturday morning farmers market just off North Main Street is now known as North End City Market and is under new management. The Rock River Development Partnership hopes to grow the event this year, both in attendance and number of vendors.

“It’s a weekly tradition for the people of the North End,” says Cathy McDermott of the Rock River Development Partnership. “We’ve added live music, activities and food and beverage for purchase.”

Visitors find a large collection of farmers’ produce, plants, breads, fresh eggs, baked goods, pickles, cheeses, honey and more. A few local restaurants also claim spots in this market. Rathskeller sells homemade brats and lyonnaise potatoes; Deli Italia sells breakfast pizza, focaccia and sausage bread; and Mom

& Pop’s BBQ sells smoked pulled pork.

Adult beverages, including Bloody Marys and mimosas, also are available.

Many of the original farmers still vend at the market, and a few new vendors have joined the group this year. With about 18 vendors right now, there’s still room for more. Anyone interested in becoming a vendor at North End City Market can visit rockfordcitymarket.com/north-endmarket to access the application.

Kids’ activities have been added to the market as well. Nonprofit organizations engage young children in various activities each week, such as arts and crafts. Womanspace helped with this aspect of the market the first week, and other community groups are scheduled to work with kids throughout the summer.

While it used to be located in the parking lot behind Altamore Ristorante on the west side of Main Street, the market is now held on the southeast corner of N. Main and Auburn streets.

“The turnout is usually a few hundred people each week, but we’re hoping to grow that to about 500-700 each week,” says McDermott. “We want to create a nice environment where people can come buy fresh and local produce, as well as socialize.”

The North End City Market is held Saturday mornings from May 16-Oct. 31, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. For more information, visit the market’s Facebook page at facebook. com/pages/North-End-City-Market. ❚

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R  O R

Petunia Festival Continued from Cover

Festival admission is $5 per day or $12 for all days, with free entrance on Sunday. The ticket price includes access to the live entertainment and other activities may involve additional fees. Children 12 and under can get in for free.

From Thursday to Saturday, festivalgoers can watch all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays in a comical abridged performance of the complete works of William Shakespeare, presented by Dixon’s new professional theater, Stage Left. Every morning starts with a pancake breakfast and drop-in craft events.

The excitement builds on the first evening, with the showing of “Back to the Future,” at 9 p.m., along the riverfront. Bring a blanket or comfy lawn chair and enjoy some snacks courtesy of Liberty Court.

“The outdoor movie has always

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been a favorite for families,” Trueblood says. “And it’ll be fun for kids to make a patriotic jingle stick at the drop-in crafts event, or a crown to wear to the parade on Sunday.”

Daily activities include a carnival located in Dixon High School’s parking lot, a “taste trail” featuring food and drinks from a variety of vendors and live music on two stages. The Dixon Elks Club on Franklin Grove Road will be the headquarters for Bingo; players must be 18 or older.

Trueblood is especially looking forward to the live music.

“With Nitty Gritty Dirt Band headlining our entertainment lineup this year, we’re very excited about all the incredible artists and talent that will be featured on our two Riverfront stages,” she says.

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Nitty Gritty Dirt Band is known for country/folk Top 10 hits “Fishin’ In The Dark” and “Mr. Bojangles.” Other performers throughout the festival will play rock, country, folk, blues, singer/ songwriter, R&B and funk music.

Special events Friday and Saturday include the new Ultimate Air Dogs show, a competition sponsored by Purina, in which dogs jump off a dock for glory and prizes. There’s also a new Cruisin’ Car Show featuring shiny models from around the community.

R  O R “The car show is definitely something to look forward to,” Trueblood says. “It’s a very popular event, at many festivals, and we’re excited to offer it to festivalgoers this year.”

Returning special events include an ice cream social; a 5K Reagan run/walk starting in front of the ex-president’s childhood home; a craft show and sale featuring many types of artwork; a Kids Day and Family Fun Night with games and refreshments; and annual bags and tennis tournaments.

On Sunday, the last day of the festival, a magical-themed parade will begin at 1 p.m. The parade lineup features local community members, the Jesse White Tumblers, the Next Generation Fancy Drill Team and much more. A worship service will commence earlier in the morning and fireworks will cap off the evening.

“It’s a great, family-oriented day,” Trueblood says. The festival will take place off of U.S. Route 52 on both sides of the Rock River, with events spanning the nearby streets of Dixon High School on Lincoln Statue Drive.

Dixon is known as the “Petunia Capital of the World” due to a bright cascade of the pink plants covering over 2.5 miles of the city’s main streets. The Dixon Men’s Garden Club, formed in 1950, began the tradition of planting petunias along the main roadways of the community after Dutch Elm disease destroyed most of the trees in the area. The Garden Club decided to bring beauty to the barren areas by planting 4,500 petunias in 1960. The initial effort is now a major city project, with 18,500 of the plants gracing the area every year from May until late fall.

To celebrate the Garden Club’s beautification efforts, the Dixon Petunia Festival occurs annually and attracts thousands of visitors. The plantings are in full bloom when the festival hap-

pens, which has been every year since 1964, always over Independence Day weekend.

Dixon now embraces the pink flower as its symbol and highly anticipates the festival every year. “Festivalgoers are bound to have a great time,” says Trueblood. Learn more about the festival and find a complete lineup of performances at petuniafestival.org. ❚

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Steps for Preventing Pain in Children with Scoliosis

A

bout one in 50, or 6 million Americans, have scoliosis, and 600,000 of them are children. Since June is National Scoliosis Awareness Month, the doctors at Rockford Spine Center are raising awareness and offering proactive measures to help children with the disease.

Scoliosis is the sideways curvature of the spine that occurs most often during an adolescent growth spurt. Most cases of scoliosis are mild, but severe scoliosis can be disabling. A severe spinal curve can reduce the amount of space within the chest, making it difficult for the lungs to function properly.

In children and teens, scoliosis typically does not cause symptoms and is not obvious until the curve of the spine becomes moderate or severe. This is why early diagnosis is key to preventing the condition from worsening.

New research and development for screening and non-operative interventions are providing opportunities for safer and more effective early diagnosis and patient care. However,

only 26 states mandate school scoliosis screenings and Illinois is not one of them.

“It takes about 30 seconds to conduct a non-invasive scoliosis screening,” says Dr. Michael Roh, orthopedic spine surgeon, Rockford Spine Center, 2902 McFarland Road. “This screening allows us to take preventative steps to avoid a future of pain for that child. It is important to be an advocate for your child, so ask for a scoliosis screening.”

Rockford Spine Center has diagnosed and treated more than 2,000 people with scoliosis and has helped them to lead healthy, active, and pain-free lives.

Parents, teachers, and other caregivers should be alert to the following signs of scoliosis in children: § Uneven shoulders § One shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other § Uneven waist § One hip higher than the other

Early diagnosis is key to avoiding future pain for children and ensures that your child receives treatment as soon as possible. Rockford Spine Center maintains resource tools on the Patient Education portion of its website found at rockfordspine. com. The tools include videos and links to professional organizations like the Scoliosis Research Society, for which Dr. Roh has served as a cabinet and committee chair. ❚

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Y F Felicia Farrell, an up-and-coming black singer who’s ready for her big break. RVC, Rockford, (815) 921-2160.

34th Annual Nuts About Art July 4, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. All-original fine art exhibit. John Dixon Park, 500 N. Galena Ave., Dixon. Sponsored by The Next Picture Show, thenextpictureshow.com.

Echo Beach Surf Band July 4, 6-9 p.m. Food and soft beverages for sale. Concerts on the Creek series. Free. Spring Creek United Church of Christ, 4500 Spring Creek Road, (815) 877-2576, ext. 103, springcreekucc.org.

Jodi Beach will perform at Tuesday Evening in the Gardens at Anderson Japanese Gardens on June 30. Bring a picnic dinner or buy one, and relax to the music surrounded by lovely gardens.

Young Frankenstein: The Musical June 24-27, July 29-Aug. 2, 8 p.m.; June 27, 2 p.m. Enjoy all of your favorite moments from the classic film, plus brand-new, show-stopping numbers for the stage, including “Transylvania Mania,” “He Vas My Boyfriend,” “Puttin’ on the Ritz.” Starlight Theatre, RVC, Rockford, (815) 921-2160.

sale, picnics OK but no carry-in beverages. $5 non-members. AJG Evening in the Gardens series, Rockford, (815) 229-9390, andersongardens.org.

Bandshell Concert June 25, 7 p.m. Free. Sinnissippi Band Shell, Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. 2nd St., Rockford. Rockfordparkdistrict.org.

Steel Magnolias July 1-2, 8-9, seating at 11:45 a.m. and 5:45 p.m.; Sun. 3:30 p.m. The story of a group of gossipy southern ladies in a small-town beauty parlor whose interactions reveal deep strength of character.

Set completely in Truvy’s shop, with just the female characters. White Pines, Mt. Morris, (815) 946-3817.

Despicable Me June 26, dusk. Steve Carell stars in this animated film about Gru, an evil mastermind turned super-dad. Free. Friday Night Flix, Davis Park, 320 S. Wyman St., Rockford, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com.

Greg Herriges’ New Whirled Duo with Terrence Karn June 27, 7-9 p.m. Food and soft beverages for sale. Concerts on the Creek series. Free. Spring Creek United Church of Christ, 4500 Spring Creek Road, (815) 877-2576, ext. 103, springcreekucc.org.

Anderson Japanese Gardens: Jodi Beach June 30, 5:45 p.m. Rockford’s unique, original arrangements of jazz classics and contemporary works. Opening Act: The Groove Hotel. Food and beverages for

Celebrating Our Nation’s Heroes June 30, 7 p.m. Free. Sinnissippi Band Shell, Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. 2nd St., Rockford. Rockfordparkdistrict.org.

ComEd Independence Day Spectacular July 3, 8 p.m. Enjoy an evening under the stars with a Rockford Symphony Orchestra Pops Concert of patriotic favorites, a tribute to our veterans and lively summertime tunes. Fireworks and John Philip Sousa’s Stars and Stripes Forever complete this annual summer tradition.

Picnic prior to performance. Starlight Theatre, RVC, Rockford, (815) 921-2160.

Starlight Theatre: Memphis July 22-26, 8 p.m.; June 20, 2 p.m. The story of DJ Huey Calhoun, a good ol’ boy with a passion for R&B music, and

jf gaziano & beatmerchants July 7, 5:45 p.m. Rockford-based blues and jazz group, known for a “sway and reel” sound. Opening act: Ballroom Thieves. Food and beverages for sale, picnics OK but no carry-in beverages. $5 non-members. AJG Evening in the Gardens series, Rockford, (815) 229-9390, andersongardens.org.

Mary Poppins July 8-12, 8 p.m. Young Jane and Michael have sent many-a-nanny packing before the umbrella-travelling nanny arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, Poppins teaches the family how to value each other again. Starlight Theatre, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford. Tickets: (815) 921-2160 or online, rockvalleycollege.edu.

Rhythm Rockets July 9, 7 p.m. Free. Sinnissippi Band Shell, Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. 2nd St., Rockford.

Rockfordparkdistrict.org.

How to Train Your Dragon 2 July 10, dusk. Hiccup and his dragon, Toothless, discover a cave that’s filled with dragons. Free. Friday Night Flix, Davis Park, 320 S. Wyman St., Rockford, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com.

RSO: Wonderful Woodwinds July 11, 10-11 a.m. A family-friendly introduction to the woodwind section of the orchestra. Includes hands-on activities.

Symphony Saturdays Series at Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford, (815) 2299390. Tickets: Rockfordsymphony.com. ❚

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Restaurant of the Week

Pearl Bistro Offers Something for Everyone

By Brian Hughes

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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 brightly. 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.

On the menu are appetizers such as Buffalo Shrimp and Buffalo Chicken, with a “secret” Pearl buffalo sauce, and entrees range from a chicken panini and Angus burger to chicken Alfredo and pesto (815) 877-0505. L T-F 11:30am-2pm, Sat 2:30pm; D M-Th 5-9:30pm, F-Sat 10:30pm, Sun 4:30-9:30pm. $$.

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Amici Italian Grill E Upscale-Casual/Authentic Italian. 5506 Clayton Circle, Roscoe, (815) 623-7171. LD Sun-Th 11am9pm, F-Sat 10-pm. $-$$.

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

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

Maciano’s Pizza & Pastaria E Casual. Beer/wine. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, (815) 963-7869. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $$.

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

Café Fromage E Casual/American. Regional foods. 431 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, (608) 312-2070. BrLD M-F 7am-6pm, SatNapoli Pizzeria III & Top Dollar Slots E Takeout/delivery.

Sun 8am-5pm. $.

6560 N. Alpine, Loves Park, (815) 877-9888. LD daily 11am.

Cannova’s Italian Cuisine E Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., Freeport, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. Pearl Bistro E Casual. Brick oven pizza, burgers, sandwiches, appetizers, steak, seafood, signature cocktails. 6876 Spring $-$$.

Creek, Rockford, (815) 654-3400. LD daily. $-$$.

Ciao Bella Ristorante E Upscale-Casual/Italian-American.

Extensive wine list; daily specials. 6500 E. Riverside, Loves Prairie Street Brewhouse E Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Park, (815) 654-9900. LD M-F 11am-9pm, Sat 5-9pm. $$.

Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$.

Costa’s Ristorante E Upscale-Casual. 133 Blackhawk Dr., BySisters Thai Café E Casual/Thai-Laotian. Authentic cuisine. ron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. Open daily 4pm. $-$$.

In Clock Tower Resort, 7801 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 229Dos Reales E Casual/Mexican. Authentic Mexican fare, 4545. L M-Sat 11am-2:30pm; D Sun-Th 5-9pm, Sat 10pm. $. lunch menu. 5855 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 227-4979. LD Tavern on Clark E Casual/American. 755 Clark Ave., RockSun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 10:30pm. $-$$. ford, (815) 708-7088. LD daily 10am. $-$$.

Giordano’s Famous Stuffed Pizza E Casual/Italian. Pick-up/ delivery. 333 Executive Pkwy., Rockford, Ill. (815) 398-5700. This Is It Eatery E Casual/American. 16 N. Chicago Ave., Freeport, (815) 616-5449. LD T-Th 11am-8pm, F-Sat 10pm. $.

LD Sun-Th 9am-11p.m; F-Sat to midnight. $.

JMK Nippon Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar E Upscale- Vito’s Ristorante E Casual/Authentic Italian. 1620 N. Bell Casual. Food cooked tableside. 2551 N. Perryville, Rockford, School Rd., Rockford, (815) 312-5080. LD T-Sat 11am. $$. ❚

Onwer Rick Lewis, inside Pearl Bistro, Rockford

ravioli. 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,” says Lewis.

Hrs: Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Fri.-Sat. to 12:30 a.m., and Sun. to 8 p.m. ❚

In the Spotlight Alchemy

T

his trendy restaurant inside Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford, offers an out-of-the-ordinary experience in a big-city atmosphere.

“Alchemy has its own vibe and feel,” says Al Castrogiovanni, chef and founder. “I always had a vision and knew what I wanted to do. We do a lot of out-of-the-box thinking and customize everything.”

The full service bar features 36 craft beers on tap. Everything on the menu is made from scratch with fresh ingredients.

Pizzas made from handcrafted dough, with names like Chicago Dog and Thai Pie, are baked in a wood-fire oven. Classic fare includes pastas, soups, salads, burgers and sandwiches, all with a special twist, and daily specials.

Alchemy serves lunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Mon.-Fri.; and dinner 4-10 p.m. Mon.Thurs. and 4-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat. The bar is open later. ❚

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T  I

Be Good to Your Toilet W

hen a person has toilet trouble, it’s most likely because something went into the toilet that doesn’t belong there, says Don Howe, a licensed plumber and certified technician with Pearson, 2415 20th St., Rockford. “Using too much toilet paper is one of the main reasons people get clogged toilets,” Howe says. He recommends using one-ply paper, which dissolves right away in water. If you have a septic system, it’s all you should use.

Those who prefer to use softer, doubleply tissue should understand that it absorbs water like a paper towel; in large amounts, it becomes too heavy to go through the trap, says Howe.

If people have problems flushing even after they’ve consciously reduced paper usage, they might want to install a powerassisted toilet, which uses water and air pressure, rather than gravity alone, to flush.

Hard water is also an enemy for all plumbing fixtures in the home.

“With hard water, a good flushing toilet will lose flushing capacity in just a couple years because lime builds up quickly and can lead to clogs,” Howe explains.

Surprisingly, one of the most common reasons for calling a plumber these days is because a cell phone has been dropped down a toilet, says Howe. Resolving the problem can cost hundreds of dollars.

“Just paying more attention to what you’re doing can prevent toilets from clogging,” he says.

Small, everyday items can damage not just your own plumbing, but your neighborhood’s entire sewer system. Why? Because many items don’t dissolve or disintegrate easily.

You can prevent problems like these by following one simple rule – only use your toilet to flush toilet paper or organic waste material. Everything else, including old medications and grease, should go into the wastebasket. ❚ For nearly 60 years Pearson has served the Northern Illinois area. Pearson offers Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning, Pest Control and Remodeling services, among others. Call Pearson at (815) 398-8312, or visit PearsonGuy.com or Facebook.

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Save Money with These DIY Care Care Tips W

hile taking your car to an auto service professional is a great way to ensure its performance, the Car Care Council reminds vehicle owners there are few simple vehicle checks that they can easily learn and do themselves to save a little money and help keep their vehicles running efficiently all summer long.

With basic knowledge of common maintenance practices and a little time, motorists can inspect the following components in their own driveway: Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.

Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering and brake and transmission, as well as windshield washer fluid and antifreeze/coolant.

Check the hoses and belts as they can become cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or show signs of excessive wear. These are critical to the proper functioning of the

electrical system, air conditioning, power steering and the cooling system.

Check the wipers and lighting so that you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior lighting is working properly and inspect and replace worn wiper blades.

Keep the reservoir filled with windshield washer fluid.

To keep the cooling system working effectively, the coolant and distilled water mixture for a vehicle’s radiator should be 50:50. Never open a hot radiator cap when checking the coolant level in the reservoir.

As a rule of thumb, the coolant should be changed annually on most vehicles.

Check the gas cap to ensure it is not damaged, loose or missing to prevent gas from spilling or evaporating.

Don’t neglect the exterior. When washing the outside, make sure to include

the tires and wheels and the underside and fenders to eliminate any road salt or grime.

The body of the vehicle should be washed using a product sold specifically for cars.

Wax your vehicle every six months.

To learn more about how to care for you vehicle, and for a free copy of the popular Care Care Guide, visit carecar. org. ■

(Source: Family Features. Photo courtsy of Getty Images)

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