Smart Living Weekly - June 1, 2016

re a C on ve nt io n & V

it

d re so on By Sp

is

e ea er w cad n, Ar s d fu ca

or es the lly kf c

fu n at uti c ei Ro m lors ea ani ll

it b ot , a co e s s all Vi & B ine ill b . v 1 ica tum nd n w lly pus 10 a o er m ore bs eas tifu am 61 b C s ru r L au e m fo Ar sh er ,I m es, eat , a b seu ay rd d r fo tre d th nte Mu to . ck t e of m e n r Ro t a ts C fron d.co mo er r r r d . nc g A ive kfo an St in r R roc olf n g m ai u s, go or , o n s .M e sit N Plu Vi ard 2 g e. ily.

10 ls, am iva u e f fest ea s, ur nt B ve rs

A

o

l. ina rig O al.

Re

Special Tourism Issue: Welcome to Our Region!

n iving g Sm mart a L ivi ivin ng ma Weekly See Inside for Tourism Attractions, Events, Entertainment, Dining & More

A

80

0.

52

1.

08

49

go

ro

ck

fo

rd

.c

om

9/1

0/0

7

2:0

7:3

7

PM

95¢ • June 1, 2016

™

Right in Our Region

Hear Music, Have Fun in German Valley

By Peggy Werner

M

usic will be in the air during German Valley Days, June 10-12, at Ben Miller Park. The town of about 500 residents plans all year for the festival and expects to welcome about 2,000 people. “I Hear Music” is the theme this year because the festival and parade will feature more musical groups than ever before.

“We’re a small town, but we’re proud of our community,” says Donna Smith, chairperson of the festival planning committee. “We’re a little place that does big things and German Valley Days is a weekend that puts us on the map and brings people from all directions to be a part of our community.”

Continued on p. 22

Best of Life Information for Our Region’s Residents & Visitors Proudly Serving the Needs of 326,000 Neighbors - For Your Home, Health & Fun! Organizing Your Home • Dining at Fresco • Cell Phone Screen Broken?

You Can Improve Your Health • Anderson Japanese Gardens Events • Al Fresco Music from RSO

Smart Living Weekly

Issue 1

53

SM

&

US IS, 2re7au O IN gers Bu ILL PaVisito

e Se

n tio en nv Co

1.

Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit

Learn more about Rockford and how it is the perfect getaway for

Chris Manuel, Dustin Koch, Reed Sjostrom

food, culture and outdoor adventure.

Prairie Street Brewhouse

Request your GoRockford guide at gorockford.com/vguide.

James Purifoy

Al Castrogiovanni

Zina Horton

15th & Chris

Alchemy

Zammuto’s

Real. Original. Delicious.

Rockford, Illinois, is filled with Delicious Destinations that make it a can’t-miss culinary adventure. An impressive list of local chefs have been delighting diners and diverse palates for years. They know that to get the best tasting creations, fresh food is better and that farmers are a chef’s best friend.

Whether you are grabbing some of the best burgers of your life from 15th & Chris, sampling the Real. Orignal. granita from Zammuto’s, trying the latest trends and fusion foods at Alchemy or having a pint of the “beer that made Milwaukee jealous,” the Nikelob, at Prairie Street Brewhouse, you’ll be In Good Company when you pull up a chair at our table – and you will be glad you did.

54 Smart Living @gorockford Weekly Issue 1 | #gorockford | gorockford.com

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

June 1

3

4

Smart Living Weekly

June 1 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

June 1

5

In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 22 German Valley Days Outdoor Living ...................................................8 Custom Awnings Your Home .................................................. ...... 11 Organize Your Home with Custom Shelving Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 God’s God & We’re Not Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Mediterranean-inspired Recipes Your Outings ................................................17,29 Anderson Gardens, RSO Your Health ............................................. .......... 25 Your Can Improve Your Health Your Fun ................................................... ......... 27

Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 29

Your Technology .............................................. ..33 Shattered Cell Phone Screen? Here’s Help

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 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, Jeremy Jones Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Website www.NWQSmartLiving.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 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.

6

Smart Living Weekly

June 1 To advertise call 815-316-2300

‘Welcome to Rockford !’

I

t’s a phrase we’d all better get used to saying, now that Rockford is such a growing tourism hub. Some 97 percent of us believe tourism is “very important” or “important” to our regional economy, according to a recent survey. And the staff of Smart Living Weekly agrees. That’s why we’re writing about our visitor attractions more than ever, these days.

Surprisingly, many residents have yet to discover the gems here that out-of-towners already know about.

Visitors spent $340 million here in 2014, generating $5.57 million in local tax receipts, the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau tells us. That’s money for public services that you and I don’t have to supply through our property tax bills. And some of what we do support with our taxes is really paying strong dividends.

In particular, the Rockford Park District’s Sportscore complexes, along with the Indoor Sports Center, drew 2.8 million visits in 2014.

Rock Cut State Park, park district-owned ice facilities, BMO Harris Bank Center (including the IceHogs) and the Forest Hills baseball complex attracted the most visitors in 2014.

Tourism receipts are expected to keep growing. The park district’s new Sports Factory will draw thousands downtown when it opens this summer; two new downtown hotels are moving forward; and 124-acre Sportscore Two is under construction on East Riverside Blvd. We’re establishing our region as the premier amateur sports center of the Midwest.

Many, many good things are happening in Rockford. Efforts by all kinds of people are adding up. We note that it’s the locally owned businesses that are sponsoring many of the projects and events that are lifting up our community. They care about the Rockford, Ill., region. Big-box stores and other national businesses do not. Please keep that in mind the next time you go shopping, dining out, banking or anything else that can be handled by a local business.

By helping local folks to thrive, we help our community to thrive and can say with growing confidence: Welcome to Rockford! ❚ Janine Pumilia Executive Editor

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

June 1

7

O L

Something Cool: Custom-Made Awnings W hen hot weather sets in, a little shade can make all the difference to your comfort level. A high-quality awning can dress up a home or business and make it feel more welcoming. Whether placed on your windows or rolled out over your patio, awnings offer relief from the blazing sun.

The Rockford region is fortunate to have a company that’s been specializing in custom awnings since Paul R. Berg founded Illinois Automatic Awning in the 1920s, inside the old post office building on South Main Street. Berg invented the very first roller awning and set into motion Berg Industries Inc., a business that still prospers today.

Michael Holsker, vice president of sales, has been working in all aspects of Berg Industries’ awning division since the early 1980s.

“We offer hundreds of styles and options, from standard awnings to porch curtains and retractable awnings,” says

8

Smart Living Weekly

Holsker. “The endless array of colors, whether bold or subdued, striped or solid, makes it easy to complement any style of architecture.”

Awnings help to conserve energy by reducing interior temperatures; they also extend your outdoor living space. Ordering is easy because Berg staff members bring fabric samples to your home or business and custom measure the spaces to be shaded.

“Fabric quality makes or breaks the performance and beauty of an awning,” says Holsker. Berg Industries partners with Tri Vantage, a top-line fabric distributor. The awnings and canopies are custom-made on-site at Berg Industries, 3455 S. Mulford Road, Rockford.

Come fall, Berg will remove and store your awnings or deck canopy to prolong their life, and reinstall them in spring.

“This is especially important for canopies over a deck that can sag and stretch

under the weight of snow,” Holsker explains. Berg also offers cleaning services to maintain your awnings.

Along with residential and commercial awnings, Berg Industries makes custom boat covers and is the area’s largest tent rental company. Berg rents tents, tables, chairs, dance floors, table coverings and much more.

Learn more at bergtents.com. ❚

Tell them you saw it in ...Smart Living Weekly call 815-316-2300 June 1 To advertise

March 30

13

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

June 1

9

10

Smart Living Weekly

June 1

Y H  G

An Organized Home Decreases Your Stress

By Janine Pumilia, managing editor

W

hen Joe Weller began installing closet systems more than 30 years ago, options were pretty limited.

“When I started in this business in 1985, most everything was shelf and pole construction and closet design wasn’t talked about much. That has changed,” says the owner of Shelving & Bath Unlimited, 4337 S. Perryville Road, Cherry Valley, Ill. Today, almost 80 percent of Weller’s customers opt for custom laminate closet systems that look like finished wood cabinets.

Along with more than 50 melamine colors and textures, there are options for granite surfaces, glass shelves, motionactivated LED lighting – even LED lights inside the drawers if you like – built-in mirrors, jewelry trays, removable laundry bags, a fold-out ironing board, adjustable cubbies made for shoes, boots and handbags and much more.

“Many people are using fewer or no dressers in their bedrooms and are choosing instead to maximize their closet space,” Weller explains.

While some people go so far as to convert spare bedrooms into luxurious walk-in closets, others double or triple the efficiency of their reach-in closets by having them professionally designed. Either way, it’s the design expertise offered by Shelving Unlimited that makes it possible to meet organization goals.

“It’s all about good design,” says Weller. “You can have the largest Taj Mahal-type closet in the world, but if it’s not functioning well it can become one more mess to deal with. Good organization saves you time and prevents frustration.”

Weller also designs storage solutions for the pantry, garage, laundry room, home office and basement.

“Good organizational design plays a big role in making a home more functional and enjoyable,” he says.

Along with adjustable-shelf laminate storage, Shelving Unlimited offers wireshelving systems by Rubbermaid, the No. 1 brand in the industry. ❚

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

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

June 1

11

I  W

God’s God & We’re Not. T he Book of Job is easy to avoid.

Who wants to read about a good man who suffers terrible things in some cosmic wager between Satan and God? We should, because there’s lots to learn.

Before God restores Job’s life, Job demands an explanation from seemingly absent God, and boy does he get it – well, sort of. God tells Job that no part of the creation should put the Creator on trial. God’s tirade unfolds during four beautiful chapters in which He describes His own handiwork.

If you’ve never read Job chapters 38 to 41, deny yourself the pleasure no longer. Job 38: 1-13; (NIV): Then the Lord an-

swered Job out of the storm. He said: “Who is this that darkens my counsel with words without knowledge? Brace yourself like a man; I shall question you, and you shall answer me.

“Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell Me, if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know!

Who stretched a measuring line across it? On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone – while the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy?

Who shut up the sea behind doors when it burst forth from the womb, when I made the clouds its garment and wrapped it in thick darkness, when I fixed limits for it and set its doors and bars in place, when I said, ‘This far you may come and no farther; here is where your proud waves halt’?

“Have you ever given orders to the morning, or shown the dawn its place, that it might take the earth by its edges and shake the wicked [night] out of it? ...”

Job 40: 1-2; 8-(NIV):

The Lord said to Job: “Will the one who contends with the Almighty correct him? Let him who accuses God answer Him! ... Would you discredit my justice? Would you condemn me to justify yourself? Do you have an arm like God’s, and can your voice thunder like His? Then adorn yourself with glory and splendor, and clothe yourself in honor and majesty.

Unleash the fury of your wrath, look at every proud man and bring him low ...” ❚ Editor’s note: A highly thought-provoking study of Job is found in The Bible Jesus Read, by author Philip Yancey.

12

–Janine Pumilia

Smart Living Weekly

June 1 To advertise call 815-316-2300

14

Smart Living Weekly

June 1 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Y K

Get Transported by Mediterranean Meals R

ipe vegetables, fresh herbs and fragrant spices all lend vibrant, bold flavors to mouthwatering meals that are worth lingering over with friends. This is what Mediterranean cooking is all about.

Add some Mediterranean inspiration to your everyday meals with these recipes using Crisco olive oils to help you turn an ordinary meal into a memorable one.

Linguine with Basil and Tomatoes Serves: 8

Ingredients:

• 1 1-pound box linguine pasta • 1 tablespoon salt, or to taste • 1/2 cup Crisco 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil • 2 pints grape tomatoes (4 cups), cut in half • 1 tablespoon minced garlic • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes • 18 to 20 basil leaves, cut in thin strips • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus additional for garnish

• 2/3 cup plain yogurt • 3 large eggs • 2/3 cup Crisco Pure Olive Oil • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 3/4 cup heavy cream • 3 tablespoons honey • 3/4 cup ricotta cheese, at room temperature

Directions: Heat oven to 350°F. Spray a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan generously with baking spray.

Combine flour, baking powder and salt in a small bowl.

Whisk together sugar, orange peel, lavender and pepper in a large mixing bowl.

Add yogurt, eggs and olive oil; whisk until smooth. Add in vanilla. Add flour mixture and gently whisk in until just combined. Scrape batter into prepared pan.

Bake 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool

in pan 5 minutes; remove from pan and cool completely.

Whip cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Add honey and continue to whip until stiff. Add ricotta cheese, a dollop at a time, and beat until fluffy. Slice cake. Top slices with honeyed ricotta and sprinkle with lavender. ❚ – Source: Family Features

Directions: Heat 6 quarts water to boil. Add pasta and salt. Cook according to package directions while preparing sauce.

Heat olive oil in large skillet on medium heat. Add tomatoes and garlic.

Cook and stir 2 minutes or until tomatoes are soft. Remove from heat. Stir in vinegar and pepper flakes.

Drain cooked pasta. Add to skillet.

Cook and stir 1 minute or until pasta is coated and hot. Remove from heat. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in basil and cheese. Serve with additional cheese, if desired.

Lavender Olive Oil Cake with Honeyed Ricotta Serves: 8-10

Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups Pillsbury All Purpose Flour • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt • 1 cup sugar • 1 tablespoon finely grated orange peel • 1 tablespoon culinary lavender, crushed, plus additional 1 to 2 tablespoons for garnish • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

June 1

15

JACKPOTS UP TO $25,000!

REEL RANDOM JACKPOT WINS THIS SPRING:

They could happen at any time, any seat, any dollar amount and any reel combination.

Just play slots now–June 30 during our 25th Anniversary celebration and you’ve got a random shot at prizes of $25, $250 and $2,500, awarded all dawy every day. You could also win a progressive jackpot guaranteed to hit by $25,000!

26

Smart Living Weekly

June 1

Y O

Enjoy Anderson Japanese Gardens this Season nderson Japanese Gardens (AJG), 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, is open daily through the end of October.

Inspired by calm and tranquility, this 12-acre garden is comprised of koifilled ponds, winding pathways, gentle streams, plunging waterfalls, raked gravel gardens, beautifully trained pines and much more. Master craftsmanship and 16th century traditional architecture are found throughout.

Fresco at the Gardens, owned and operated by Franchesco’s Ristorante, offers a diverse menu made from locally sourced ingredients. Fresco is open Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and weekends 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

There are several special events and programs scheduled at the gardens. Here are a few.

• AJG’s popular Tuesday Evening in the Gardens music series continues June 7 with Radio Birds (Atlanta, Ga.).

Opening for them is hometown group Swingbilly RFD. Find a downloadable

schedule of 2016 performances under the events tab at the website.

The concerts are included with regular admission cost.

Concerts begin at 5:45 p.m.; guests may set up picnic areas starting at 5 p.m. Off-site parking with shuttle service is available at the University of Illinois College of Medicine on Parkview Avenue. Food and beverages may be purchased from Woodfire Pizza, DiTullio’s Italian Deli, Zammuto’s and Fresco at the Garden. Carry-in suppers are fine, but no carry-in beverages.

• The Japanese Summer Festival is a two-day celebration of traditional cultural arts on July 30 & 31, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It includes exhibits, demonstrations and unique performances that appeal to all age groups and help to foster a better understanding of the Japanese culture.

• New to the garden this year is a children’s music series with nationally renowned performers.

(David Anderson photo)

A

• Also new is Strings on Sunday, a late afternoon picnic series that includes a mix of pop favorites, blue grass and classical selections performed by the Turtle Creek Chamber Orchestra.

Enjoy the gardens Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and weekends 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Garden admission is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors 62 and over, $6 for students and free to children under age 5. Or, become a member and come and go without admission.

Learn more about egarden membership, at andersongardens.org. ❚

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

June 1

17

In N tro o du w cin g

Queen Set $1999 King Set $2599

Calista Extra Firm

Katarina Plush Pillow Top

Queen Set $2599 King Set $3199

Desiree Plush

Queen Set $2299 King Set $2899

Katarina Luxury Firm

Queen Set $2599 King Set $3199

Queen Set $2299 Desiree Luxury Firm King Set $2899

Mariela Extra Firm

Queen Set $2799 King Set $3599

Displayed Only atForRiverside Location.

See Store Details.

Trina & Dale Welcome You 808 W. Riverside Boulevard to Shop Gustafson’s 206,000+ sq. ft.

6651 E. State Street ❙ Rockford, IL ❙ 815.636.8608 ❙ ofgustafsonfurniture.com Home Furnishings & Save!

RATION OF OF GUSTAFSON’S GUSTAFSON’SFURNITURE FURNITUREAND ANDMATTRESS MATTRESS2ND 2NDSTORE! STORE!NOW NOW SHOP BOTH RIVERSIDE BOULEVARD AND EAST STATE STREET LO RATION SHOP BOTH RIVERSIDE BOULEVARD AND EAST STATE STREET LOCA

HURRY IN FOR INCREDIBLE SAVINGS th OFFER ENDSBoth JUNE 6Join ! InInTheTheCelebra BothLocations Locations Join Celeb Pricesgood goodthrough throughJune June3rd 3rd Prices

Thurs 10am-7pm 10am-7pm || Fri Fri 10am-8pm 10am-8pm| |Sat Sat10am-7pm 10am-7pm| Sun | Sun12-5pm 12-5pm Thurs

HURRY IN IN FOR FORINCREDIBLE INCREDIBLEMEMORIAL MEMORIALDAY DAYMATTRESS MATTRESSSAVINGS! SAVINGS! HURRY

INSTANT INSTANT SAVINGS SAVINGS EVENT EVENT

SAVE 1200 1200 UP UP$$ TO TO

SAVE UP SAVE UPTO TO$400 $400 on iComfort and ®

® on ®iComfort and Hybrid Mattresses iComfort iComfort® Hybrid Mattresses

**

UP SAVE UPTO TO$800 $800 ++ SAVE on select Serta on select Serta Adjustable Foundations ®

®

Adjustable Foundations

Save up to $1200 instantly with purchase of an iComfort or iComfort Hybrid mattress and Save up to $1200 instantly with purchase of an iComfort or iComfort Hybrid mattress and select Serta Adjustable Foundation. Savings vary by model and size. select Serta Adjustable Foundation. Savings vary by model and size.

Advanced memory Advanced foam mattressmemory foam mattress featuring Triple Action featuring gel memoryTriple foamAction for: gel memory foam for:

Pressure Relieving Added Pressure Relieving Support Added Comfort Comfort Support

Mattress Price Mattress Price

iComfort iComfort Foresight Foresight Queen Size

Queen Size

iComfort iComfort Guidance Queen Size Guidance Queen Size

iComfort Hybrid Applause Firm iComfortIIHybrid Queen Size II Firm Applause Queen Size

iComfort Hybrid Observer iComfort Hybrid Queen Size Observer Queen Size

Motion Perfect® III Motion Perfect® III Adjustable Adjustable Foundation Price Foundation Price

Temperature Temperature Regulation Regulation

TOTAL INSTANT TOTAL INSTANT SAVINGS! SAVINGS!

$1399 + $2674 = $400 $1399 + SAVE $2674 $300 SAVE $100 = $400 SAVE $100 SAVE $300 $1599 + $2874 = $400 $1599 + SAVE $2874 $300 = $400 SAVE $100 SAVE $100

SAVE $300

SAVE $100

SAVE $300

$1199 + $2474 = $400 $1199 $2474 $100 $300 SAVE = $400 + SAVE SAVE $100 SAVE $300 $1399 + $2674 = $400 $1399 $2674 $100 $300 SAVE = $400 + SAVE

*Photos for illustration only. Not responsible for typographical errors. We reserve the right not to honor any incorrect pricing.

*Photos for illustration Not responsible for typographical errors.

We reserve right not honor any incorrect pricing. ept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.only.

Interest free financing available for purchases overthe$2000 to toqualified buyers.

See store for details. 30 Day Lay ept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. Interest free financing available for purchases over $2000 to qualified buyers. See store for details. 30 Day

8 W. Riverside Blvd. & 6651 East State St. • Rockford, IL • 815.636.8608 • www.gustafsonfurniture.co 08 W. Riverside Blvd. & 6651 East State St. • Rockford, IL • 815.636.8608 • www.gustafsonfurniture Trina & Dale Welcome You

.

to Shop Gustafson’s 206,000+ sq. ft.

808 W. Riverside Boulevard ❙ Rockford, IL ❙ 815.636.8608 ❙ ofgustafsonfurniture.com Home Furnishings & Save!

6651 E. State Street

CELEBRATION OF GUSTAFSON’S FURNITURE AND MATTRESS 2ND STORE!

Prices good through June 8th

Both Locations Join In The Celebration!

Good through June 8th

Good through June 8th

Good through June 8th

Cherry Sleigh Bed WAS $319

Rocker Recliner WAS $339

Plush Rocker Recliner WAS $479

$199

$199

$299

NOW $249

NOW $249

with in-store coupon

NOW $399

with in-store coupon

with in-store coupon

Displayed at Both Locations.

Displayed at Both Locations.

Displayed at Riverside Location.

Good through June 8th

Good through June 8th

Good through June 8th

Stuman Table w/ 4 Chairs WAS $629

Beast Big Man Recliner WAS $1129

NOW $499

Garek Double Reclining Sofa WAS $819 NOW $599

NOW $588

$399

$488

with in-store coupon

$499

with in-store coupon

with in-store coupon

Displayed at Both Locations.

Displayed at Both Locations.

Displayed at Riverside Location.

Good through June 8th

Good through June 8th

Good through June 8th

Buy the Sofa for $699,

Maverick Sofa WAS $1139

Get the Loveseat FREE

NOW $1059

$599

$809

with in-store coupon

Displayed at Both Locations.

with in-store coupon

Displayed at Both Locations.

*Buy the Sofa and Loveseat, Get the Recliner

FREE

*

Leather Reclining Sofa and Loveseat WAS $2499

$1999

with in-store coupon

Displayed at Both Locations.

We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. Interest free financing available on purchases over $2000 to qualified buyers. See store for details. 30 Day Lay-A-Way. 20

*Photos for illustration only. Not responsible for typographical errors. We reserve the right not to honor any incorrect pricing.

Smart Living Weekly June 1

Open 24 hours on the web

Find us on Facebook

NOW SHOP BOTH WEST RIVERSIDE BOULEVARD AND EAST STATE STREET LOCATIONS!

MEMORIAL DAY FREE FOUNDATION EVENT

MEMORIAL DAY FREE FOUNDATION EVENT LIMITED TIME OFFER 5/23-6/5 LIMITED TIME OFFER 5/23-6/5

PURCHASE ANY HAND CRAFTED AIRELOOM MATTRESS AND GET THE MATCHING FOUNDATION FREE!

Rip Van Winkle

Super Featherbed

Plush or Firm

Queen Set Was $2899

Queen Set Was $3699

King Set ...... Was $3699

King Set ...... Was $4699

NOW $2599 NOW $3249

NOW $3399 NOW $4249

PURCHASE ANY HANDCRAFTED AIRELOOM MATTRESS AND GET THE MATCHING FOUNDATION FREE! 808CRAFTED W. Riverside Blvd.

GUSTAFSON'S GUSTAFSON'S PURCHASE ANY HAND AIRELOOM MATTRESS AND

ON RIVERSIDE BLVD ON STATE ST Rockford, IL GET THE MATCHING FOUNDATION FREE! Clearance Center Bargain Basement One of a Kind Specials!

One of a Kind Specials!

COASTER 500016 SOFA CHAISE WAS $529 NOW $350 ULTRA COMFORT UC212 AUTUMN LIFT CHAIR WAS $869 NOW $550 ASHLEY 2260338 LEATHER SOFA WAS $2209 NOW $1295 SOUTHERN MOTION 566 RECLINING SECTIONAL WAS $3279 NOW $1900 SOUTHERN MOTION 884-28P DOUBLE RECLINING SOFA W/ CONSOLE WAS $1269 NOW $525 ASHLEY 9980120 CHAIR WAS $689 NOW $295 SOUTHERN MOTION 705-31 RECLINING SOFA WAS $819 NOW $595 BASSETT 6273-0665 END TABLE WAS $399 NOW $195

BROYHILL 49890-002 END TABLE WAS $499 NOW $125 BASSETT 3956 LEATHER CHAIR WAS $1719 NOW $775 CASSADY D5 RECLINER NAVY OR BLACK WAS $535 NOW $195 JONATHAN LOUIS 21482 CHAISE WAS $1139 NOW $195 IFD IFD975 LIFT TOP COCKTAIL TABLE WAS $729 NOW $295 BASSETT 4486 TABLE W/ 3 CHAIRS SET WAS $3279 NOW $1495 BROYHILL 4308 QUEEN BEDROOM SET WAS $5489 NOW $3499

Shop Early

for best selection!

6651 E. State St. Rockford, IL

SOUTHERNMOTION 56530 PWR SOFA WAS $1519 NOW $980 ALBANY E31100 SOFA WAS $409 NOW $350 NATUZZI B68206411 SOFA WAS $1998 NOW 1192 ASHLEY 7500038 SOFA WAS $479 NOW $ 339 BROYHILL: L45241 LEATHER WAS $2029 NOW $1129 COASTER 505742 WAS $859 NOW $499 BASSETT 399542 WAS $1449 NOW $869 BROYHILL 65171 LOVESEAT WAS $1019 NOW $699 BROYHILL 45931 LOVESEAT WAS $1169 NOW $799 ALBANY E31110 LOVESEAT WAS $359 NOW $299

Smart Living Weekly

BROYHILL CHAIR 7902 WAS $759 NOW $455 BASSETT 3751 COMPLETE SECTIONAL WAS $4419 NOW $2799 COASTER 505803 CHAIR COASTER 505801 SOFA COASTER 505802 LOVESEAT WAS $2479 NOW $1497 ASHLEY 3 PACK TABLES T14213 WAS $349 NOW $239 ASHLEY TABLE T5400 WAS $309 NOW $215 ASHLEY TABLE T4861 WAS $399 NOW $279

Shop Early

for best selection!

June 1

www.gustafsonfurniture.com | 815.636.8608

21

R  O R

German Valley Days Continued from Cover

Felix and Fingers Dueling Pianos of Crystal Lake will bring their creative, high energy interactive show to the stage at 7 p.m. Saturday. Earlier in the day, singer/ songwriter Adam Linder of Gene va, Ill., takes the stage at 2:30 p.m., followed by blue grass/folk musicians Kelsey Thorp and Kendra Swanson & Second Breakfast at 3:30 p.m.

During the parade, which begins at 1:30 p.m. Saturday on Church Street going east from Rock City Road to Bunker Hill Road, the Janesville, Wis., Fife and Drum Corps, Pipes and Drums of Clan MacAlpine, and the Forreston High School Redbird Regiment will be featured.

Friday’s events will begin at 5 p.m., with concessions, vendors, pony rides,

22

Smart Living Weekly

inflatable rides and carnival games. Other activities include Panning for Gold, a dunk tank and a Celebration Supper hosted by SWIFT, the youth group of Silver Creek Church. There also will be a live weather forecast by Mark Henderson of WIFR-TV at 5 and 6 p.m.

The Friday evening “Run the Valley” 5K and fun run begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by an awards presentation and The Little Miss and Mister German Valley pageant. The NIYB all-star baseball games will be at 6 and 8 p.m. TV personality Mark Henderson will also host a Lip Sync Battle at 7:30 p.m.

A flyover by the Albertus Airport Pilots (weather permitting) will lead the way for the start of the German Valley Days “I Hear Music” parade at 1:30 p.m.

Saturday sponsored by the German Valley Firefighters and Donna Smith. Saturday’s events will start with a pancake breakfast and health screenings from 7 to 10 a.m. at the fire station, followed by registration for the Antique Tractor Show

June 1 To advertise call 815-316-2300

and German Valley Lions Club Antique Car Show.

Hands-on activities by the Rockford Discovery Center Museum will be from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and a Pig Scramble for children ages 3-10 will take place at 9 a.m. behind the Historical Museum, which will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

There also will be a coloring contest, euchre tournament, pie eating contest, shopping cart race to benefit the German Valley Food Pantry and a K-9 demonstration.

Sunday’s only event will be the “Fes-

R  O R tival of Praise” community worship service at 10 a.m. in the park.

Now in its 43rd year, German Valley Days began as a way to raise funds for the development of Ben Miller Park.

The community-wide event is supported and celebrated by most of the nearly 500 residents in this Stephenson County hamlet. The whole town pitches in, mainly through the efforts of the Lions Club, the Village of German Valley, its businesses, organizations and churches.

While events occur in various locations throughout the village, most action takes place in Ben Miller Memorial Park, located next to the German Valley Historical Museum on Church Street.

That’s a fitting location because the festival was first conceived to develop the park, which today has two shelter houses, a ball diamond, basketball court, volleyball court, playground, wooded area and concession stand.

German Valley was the location of Pleasant Prairie Academy, which began

as a school for German-speaking students studying to become pastors, and later on became the town’s high school. The school closed in 1958 and the building was torn down. The land was purchased by a local bank and given back to the village to become a park, named in honor of Ben Miller, a long-serving village president.

German Valley was first settled by German immigrants in the 1850s and was originally called Baalton. It was the first settlement in America for people coming from Ostefriesland, Germany, Smith says. In 1857, the town consisted of a general store and two houses. When the Chicago Great Western Railroad made its way to the small town, a depot was established and the village was platted and given a new name.

While German Valley Days gives residents a chance to celebrate the history of their community, it also allows guests to experience its charm.

“It’s good for our town and it feels

good to see people coming from all over to have a good time in German Valley on these special days,” says Smith. “We’re always excited to offer new things for people to see and enjoy each festival season.”

Admission is free. Learn more about German Valley Days at Stephensoncounty-il.org or call Smith at (815) 3623671 before the event and at (815) 5410853 during the event. ❚

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

June 1

23

24

Smart Living Weekly

June 1 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Y H

Peak Fitness: You CAN Improve Your Health

By Peggy Werner

I

n our society we get bombarded with “quick fix” messages from every direction on how to get that perfectly fit and low-fat body – sooner than later.

The only problem is that it doesn’t work that way.

Nick Dal Pra, Peak Fitness and Sports Club Training Director, says that transforming one’s body takes time, commitment, and a plan of action.

Peak offers a free fitness consultation to all new members and to those who want to freshen up a tired workout.

The one-hour meeting includes a body fat measurement, nutrition information, a review of health history, goal setting for health, start-up recommendations and eight exercises to assess one’s physical fitness in the areas of range of motion, mobility and basic strength. It’s also an opportunity to talk about work-

ing with a personal trainer and to learn how that can help you reach your fitness goals.

“The session helps new people to get acquainted with Peak and reduces their anxiety about working out,” Dal Pra explains. “Peak is a big place and it can be intimidating, but once you have a purpose and a plan, it’s the best place to be,” he says.

A good workout includes aerobics for the heart and lungs, strength training for muscles and bones, and stretching and flexibility to help with balance and core strength. Fitness is also about eating properly and giving the body the rest it needs, he says.

Those new to the gym need to start out with an easy plan and challenge themselves as their abilities increase. A work-

out is made more difficult by increasing time, intensity, and frequency – but not all at once. People with health problems or injuries don’t have to avoid the gym.

Workouts can be designed to protect areas of weakness while promoting healing and building overall strength, he says.

For more information on Peak Fitness and Sports Club or to schedule a fitness consultation, call (815) 877-4401. ❚

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

June 1

25

Enjoy more than 11,000 angels & angel artifacts on exhibit and the Black Angel collection donated

by Oprah Winfrey

Heavenly Treasures Gift Shop

Unique & Vintage Angels • Distinctive Gift Ideas • Jewelry & Original Art

Taste of Heaven Café

Available for rent for special events like meetings • showers • birthdays Motor Coach & Group Tours Always Welcome

Museum Hours:

Thurs. - Sat. 10 am - 4 pm Handicap accessible & free parking

Featuring the Berg Angel Collection

656 Pleasant St., Hwy. 51 Beloit, WI 608.362.9099 or 877.412.6435 www.angelmuseum.org

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

ILLINOIS, USA

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

Lego Exhibit Now thru June 19. Sun.-Sat. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

See beuautiful, whimsical Lego creations inside the conservatory. Afterward enjoy a stroll along Rockford, IL 61101 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com the Rock River and through Sinnissippi Rose Garden. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. 2nd St., Rockford. Adults $6/$8 (resident/non-resident), Seniors & Veterans $4/$6, Ages 5-17 $4/$6; Age 3-4, $1/$2.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

AJG: Tuesday Evenings in the Garden June 7: Concert by Radio Birds, from Atlanta.

Opening act is Swingbilly RFD from Rockford.

Concert bigins at 5:45 p.m. Set up picnic areas beginning at 5 p.m. Purchase food and drinks or carry in picnic food (but not drinks.) Concert included with garden admission. Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, Andersongardens.org.

Starlight Theatre: “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” June 8-11, Wed.-Sat. 8 p.m., Sat. matinee 2 p.m.; July 6-10, 8 p.m. Everyone’s favorite flying car comes to life in the musical adaption of the beloved 1968 Disney family film. Starlight Theatre, Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford, (815) 921-2160.

AE: “Women Who Steal” June 10-26, Thu. 7:30 p.m., Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 4 p.m. & 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. During one wild ride, respectable Peggy and Karen, fueled by tequila, seek revenge on the men who did them wrong.

Presented by Artists Ensemble. Cheek Theatre, Rockford University, Rockford, (815) 394-5004, artistsensemble.org.

Lake Geneva Paint-In June 11, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Stroll the streets of downtown Lake Geneva while they’re lined with quaint umbrellas, under which you’ll find local artists painting, drawing and creating unique artworks. Downtown Lake Geneva, lakegenevadowntown.com.

Starlight Theatre: “Jesus Christ Superstar” June 15-18, Wed.-Sat. 8 p.m., Sat. matinee 2 p.m.; July 13-17, 8 p.m. The Broadway rock opera based on the Gospels’ account of the last days of Jesus, written by the legendary writing team of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Starlight Theatre, Rock Valley College, Rockford, (815) 921-2160.

Enjoy "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" at Starlight Theatre starting June 8.

Woodsong Concert: Too Deep Band June 19, doors 4 p.m., concert 6 p.m. Too Deep featuring the Hanserd Brothers has been entertaining audiences at festivals, concerts and night club circuits for more than 25 years. Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, Rockford, (815) 965-8146, klehm.org.

Starlight Theatre: “The Phantom of the Opera” June 22-25, Wed.-Sat. 8 p.m., Sat. matinee 2 p.m.; & July 20-24, 8 p.m. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s award-winning turn on the tale of the disfigured musical genius, hidden away in the Paris Opera House, who terrorizes the opera company for the unwitting benefit of his young protegee, Christine. Starlight Theatre, Rock Valley College, Rockford, (815) 921-2160.

“I Never Sang for My Father (Drama)” June 24-25, 30; July 1-2, 7:30 p.m. College professor Gene has tried all his life to find love and acceptance from his father. Upon the untimely death of his mother, Gene is forced to help his father through his dark days. The story probes into the disquieting alienation that can exist between a father and son. Winneshiek Players, 228 W. Clark St., Freeport, (815) 232-7023, winneshiekplayers.org.

Slow Water Arts Festival June 25-26. Freeport Art Museum and the Freeport Downtown Development Foundation host an exciting two-day event featuring exhibits, live entertainment and food/beverage cafes.

Downtown Freeport, slowwaterarts.org. ❚

For More Attractions & Events Visit GoRockford.com Tell them you saw it in ...

Smart Living Weekly

June 1

27

WDL

Restaurant of the Week

Fresco in the Gardens

By Chris Linden, executive editor

F

ranchesco’s Ristorante in Rockford has long been known for its classy interior, culinary artistry and evening entertainment.

Now, this local favorite is stepping up to the breakfast and lunch table with Fresco at the Gardens, set inside Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford.

Fresco combines Franchesco’s dedication to quality with a focus on fresh, organic, locally sourced ingredients in scratch-made dishes. “Local and organic meals are trending topics around the nation and the world,” says Jake Ziegler, Fresco general

manager.

“We’ve designed our menu around the freshest ingredients possible.”

The fresh produce comes mainly from area farms; some Franchesco's owner Benny Salamone, Franchesco's ingredients are supplied by general manager Michelle LaMay with Fresco general familiar local businesses. Mary’s manager Jake Ziegler. dishes like Chicken Corn Chowder, a Market provides fresh-baked Caprese flatbread, the Fresco burger, bread and Rockford Roasting Co. supplies a crab cake BLT and an apple walnut fresh coffee. chicken salad (shown left).

Breakfast and lunch menus are In-and-out diners can pick up coffee crafted by head chef Robert Phillips, a Le or a FrescoFit Healthy Thirst Quencher, a Cordon Bleu graduate who’s spent a few healthful homemade smoothie. decades cooking throughout America.

The restaurant is open year-round and His breakfasts put a flavorful spin on the offers a prime view of one of the highestmorning meal. The Green Eggs and Ham rated Japanese gardens in North America. omelet, for example, combines pesto, Hours are Mon.-Fri. from 7 a.m. to 3 Asiago cheese, pancetta and eggs.

The lunch menu offers flavor-packed p.m. and Sat.-Sun. from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. ❚

In the Spotlight

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Authentic Fresh Mexican. 107 W. Main St., Poplar Grove, Ill., (815) 765-1144.

LD M 11am-8pm; Tue-Th 11am-9pm; Fri 11am-10pm; Sun noon-8pm. $.

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

Cannova’s Italian Cuisine E Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., Freeport, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. $-$$.

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

Extensive wine list; daily specials. 6500 E. Riverside, Loves Park, (815) 654-9900. LD M-F 11am-9pm, Sat 5-9pm, Sun 4-7:30pm.

Costa’s Ristorante E Upscale-Casual. 133 Blackhawk Dr., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. Open daily 4pm. $-$$.

Dos Reales E Casual/Mexican. Authentic Mexican fare, lunch menu. 5855 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 227-4979. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 10:30pm. $-$$.

Giordano’s Famous Stuffed Pizza E Casual/Italian. Pick-up/ delivery. 333 Executive Pkwy., Rockford, Ill. (815) 398-5700.

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

JMK Nippon Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar E UpscaleCasual. Food cooked tableside. 2551 N. Perryville, Rockford, (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. $$.

28

Smart Living Weekly

Main Street Bistro E 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. $$.

Maxson Riverside Restaurant E Casual/American. 1469 IL Route 2, Oregon, Ill., (800) 468-4222. LD M-Sat 11am-8pm, Br Sun 10am-3pm. $$.

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. $$.

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

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

Prairie Street Brewhouse E Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$.

Tavern on Clark E Casual/American. 755 Clark Ave., Rockford, (815) 708-7088. LD daily 10am. $-$$.

Thrive Café E Healthful, fresh salads, wraps, sandwiches, smoothies and cold-pressed juices. Inside Peak Fitness, 4401 Peak Drive, Loves Park. 6 am-8 pm Mon-Fri.; 8 am-2 pm Sat.; Closed Sundays.

This Is It Eatery E Casual/American. 16 N. Chicago Ave., Freeport, (815) 616-5449. LD T-Th 11am-8pm, F-Sat 10pm. $. ❚

June 1 To advertise call 815-316-2300

D

Dos Reales

os Reales, 5855 E. State St., Rockford, has been serving up authentic Mexican fare and signature margaritas, along with some American fare, since 1998.

Its recently updated menu features a burrito cheesesteak and chimichangas, along with newer items such as torta Mexicana, a Mexican style of sandwich filled with grilled chicken or steak; sopes Mexicanos, a traditional Mexican dish served with rice and beans; and molletes, a traditional Mexican meal with toasted bread covered in refried beans and grilled steak. Dos Reales offers glutenfree options, and dishes are mild unless a guest requests spicy.

“We prepare everything from scratch and purchase our products from local sources,” says Jose Gonzalez, Dos Reales’s manager.

Dos Reales is open Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and Fri.-Sat. until 10:30 p.m. ❚

Y O

RSO Fills the Air with Music This Summer M

embers of the Rockford Symphony Orchestra will perform in various locations throughout the area this summer as part of RSO’s Music Al Fresco program. It’s a chance to hear excellent music at no charge while enjoying various venues out in the fresh air.

From string duos to the full orchestra, the RSO will be out and about playing at Farmers Markets, City Market, Music in the Park and the University Club.

On June 7, hear the RSO Brass Quintet perform with the Phantom Regiment at the Sinnissippi Band Shell, 1354 N. 2nd St., as part of the Rockford Park District “Music in the Park” series.

On June 11 see the RSO String Quartet perform at the Beloit Farmers Market, State and East Grand streets, Beloit, from 9 a.m. to noon.

On July 26, at 7 p.m., the RSO will be back at the Sinnissippi Band Shell for

“Latin Nights.”

On Aug. 6, listen to an instrumental duet with an RSO member and a member of the Rockford Symphony Orchestra Youth Orchestra at North End Market, 1416 North Main St., Rockford, starting at 10 a.m.

On Aug. 26, the RSO Brass Quintet will perform at the Rockford City Market in the acoustic area, 124 N. Water St., Rockford.

The Al Fresco series wraps up Sept.

10 with a performance by the RSYO Sterling String Quartet at the North End Market starting at 10 a.m.

Also on the RSO’s summer schedule is the annual Independence Day concert at Starlight Theatre at Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford.

Celebrate our country’s independence with a concert of patriotic favorites, a tribute to our veterans, and lively, sum-

mertime tunes. The Armed Forces Salute, John Philip Sousa’s Stars and Stripes Forever, and fireworks complete this annual summer tradition. The cost for this concert is $30 adults; $29 seniors and students.

An All-American Picnic is available prior to the performance for $15 adults, $10 children 12 and under.

Learn more about these and other events at rockfordsymphony.com. ❚

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

June 1

29

30

Smart Living Weekly

June 1 To advertise call 815-316-2300

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

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

June 1

31

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

Save Smarter • Live Better • Every Week

Get Started at NorthwestQuarterly.com/Contest

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

This Week’s Giveaway Winner To Be Announced June 8 on the 13 WREX Morning Show 4 Tickets Magic Waters

Enter Now At: www.northwestquarterly.com/contest Contest Giveaway may take 4-6 weeks to be processed.

32

Smart Living Weekly

For contest rules go to NWQSmartLiving.com

June 1 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Y T

Broken Cell Phone Screen? Here’s Help

By Peggy Werner

O

h no! It happened again. You dropped your cell phone and find yourself looking at your apps through a shattered glass screen.

One of the quickest and most inexpensive ways to get help is at Batteries Plus Bulbs, 1825 S. Perryville Road in Rockford.

“Cell phone screens break so easily. We’re all rough on stuff and we live in a throw-away society.

If we can keep our products longer with some easy changes, it just makes sense,” says Ashley Beto, commercial sales representative for Batteries Plus Bulbs. Her family also owns stores in Loves Park and Sycamore, and plans to open a fourth store in LaSalle-Peru later this year.

Batteries Plus Bulbs can replace the cell phone screen while you wait. Other options are available if you have insur-

ance on your phone or if the phone is still under warranty.

Trained technicians can install replacement batteries and repair and replace buttons, ports, speakers, headphone jacks, cameras and more on most

smart phones, tablets and MP3 players.

For those who want to think ahead and prevent problems from happening, Simple Snap is a brand name of a thin layer of tempered glass that peels off and onto your phone to protect the glass screen.

“I learned about this product when I was at a convention,” says Beto. “The person demonstrating took a hammer to the cell phone and only the tempered glass broke.”

Otter boxes and other covers and cases provide a wide range of levels of protection for your phone. One of the newest items in the store is a waterproof bag that holds a cell phone, protecting it from rainy days and splashing water at the pool. ❚

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

June 1

33

34

Smart Living Weekly

June 1 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Smart Living Weekly

Issue 1

55

52

Smart Living Weekly

Issue 1