Smart Living Weekly August 29, 2018 by Northwest Quarterly Mag

Sm mart a r t L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit 95¢ • August 29, 2018

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Right in Our Region

Five Spectacular Local Homes to Tour

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Dress Your Windows How Secure is Your Router? Back-to-School Meal Planning Prevent Trouble by Maintaining Vehicles

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2 Tickets to Sapora Playworld See Pg. 28 Details

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Dining Rooms Remodel yours in time for the holidays

We have the area’s best selection of dining rooms

Taos Dining Room by Intercon

1100 Eleventh St. (just south of Charles) • Rockford, Illinois 61104 • 815-227-2000 Hours: Mon 9am-8pm, Tues-Sat 9am-5pm, Closed Sundays

Visit us online at: www.bensonstone.com

Furniture ❙ Flooring ❙ Fireplaces ❙ Kitchens & Baths ❙ Granite ❙ Lighting BBQ Grills ❙ Brick Stone ❙ Landscape Products ❙ Home Decor &Aug. Gifts ❙29 HearthRock5Cafe Tell❙ them you saw& it in ... Smart Living Weekly

In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 16 Five Spectacular Homes to Tour Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 How to Dress Your Windows Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Thoughts on Leadership Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Back-to-School Meal Planning Your Community ...................................19, 22, 29 Steve Young Gutters; Learning English; Tips for a Smooth College Move Your Auto ................................................ .......... 20 Why Regular Maintenance Matters Your Technology .................................... .......... 21 How Secure is Your Router? Your Health ............................................. .......... 23 Mercyhealth’s State-Designated Children’s Hospital Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 Thrive Cafe; Bravo Pizza

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen

Got the bank account BLUES?

Assistant Managing Editor Jermaine Pigee Editor Emeritus Janine Pumilia Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Behling Contributing Writer Peggy Werner, Paula Kalivoda Furniss General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes Advertising Sales Representatives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones, Nita Lasky, Kendra Green Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Distribution Kelly Fairbairn Website www.SmartLivingWeekly.com

Move your money to a place where FREE checking still means FREE without all the hoops to jump through through...aa place where local still actually means local. Your last bank transfer is just one call, click, or stop away... 815.226.2260 l membersalliance.org Free Basic Checking has no activity or maintenance fees. Additional services are available in conjunction with checking accounts that may include fees. See account terms & conditions for more information on additional services.

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Published by Hughes Media Corp. 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 (815) 316-2300, Fax: (815) 316-2301 lhughes@northwestquarterly.com Smart Living Weekly. Copyright 2018 by Hughes Media Corp., 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

Bittersweet Season

ou love it and dread it all at once when you spy that newsletter from the apple farm in your mailbox, right? Going there is so much fun! A cherished tradition! But it also means that, faster than you can say “One cider donut, please,” summer will have scampered away. It’s not just our apple access that’s changing about now, either. We’re also getting children back into school routines, moving grown kids into dorms and wondering why time evaporates more quickly with every year that passes. Summer days feel like a glorious treasure slipping between our fingertips. Also this time of year, there are reminders everywhere to STOP FOR SCHOOL BUSES, a message some folks just never seem to hear. Yes, it can be a little confusing in some situations, but we can do it, folks! Here’s the state law in Illinois: “The driver is required to stop his or her vehicle before passing the school bus from either direction. An exception is when the driver is on a highway with four or more lanes with at least two lanes of traffic in either direction. If the driver is going in the opposite direction of the bus, they do not have to stop.” We can do this! One of the better things about the between-summer-and-fall season is the fresh produce. There’s something about rows and rows of colorful vegetables, fruits and flowers that lifts our souls; we begin to crave recipes made with cinnamon and pumpkin and pay more attention to our country roots. And, cool nights of sleep feel mighty sweet with the windows open. The end of summer certainly doesn’t spell the end of outdoor fun around here, as all sorts of festivals, concerts and special events play out. Our friends at gorockford. com can give you the full scoop. Speaking of scoops, there’s still time to grab a cone, take a boat ride or lounge by the pool a few more times before winds turn cold. So make the most of fleeting weeks and relax. Whatever your pleasure, make it a great week! ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor

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Y H  G

Fresh Styles, New Options for Windows By Janine Pumilia ike everything else in your home – flooring, furniture, fixtures – window treatments need to look beautiful and function well. “People aren’t always aware of the functional options in today’s window treatments,” says Jenny Behning-Ziemke, local design consultant for 3 Day Blinds. “Do you need them to open and close automatically while you’re on vacation? Is child safety or energy conservation your concern? Do you want to let in light above but maintain privacy below? There are more solutions than you may think.” Ziemke has seen many styles evolve since she earned her design degree and entered the custom window treatment industry more than 28 years ago. But the need for sound design advice remains constant. “In the 1990s, we saw a lot of fancy, heavy window treatments,” she recalls.

“Next came a big swing toward a very clean look, often with nothing at all on windows except blinds for privacy.” That phase has passed. “For the past 5 years, most people have settled between those extremes,” says Ziemke. “They want their windows dressed but not overdressed. A home today might feature blinds for privacy plus stationary fabric panels on each side and a decorative rod with nice finials. Cozy but not heavy. “We mostly see drapes in living and dining rooms, and also bedrooms, because they add to a feeling of romance.” Stationary panels or full drapery that have returns are practical in bedrooms, she says. “They block those slices of light that can escape from the sides of blinds and wake you up.” The 3 Day Blinds company provides a no-obligation, in-home visit with an ex-

perienced design consultant. “It takes about two to three hours,” says Ziemke. “I bring my showroom-onwheels right to you. We measure, help you place the order, manufacture the products and ship them to the installer within three days. We install them in your home and you enjoy them.” Learn more at 3dayoffer202.com or set up a home consultation by calling (815) 242-0034. Be sure to ask about the buy one, get one 50 percent off sale currently in progress. ❚

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I  W

‘Champion of Ideals’

his week we bid farewell to a U.S. statesman who became the rarest of rare birds: a person widely beloved by people of both major U.S. political parties. Many disagreed with his policies, but few doubted his commitment to democracy, civility, decency and selfless public service. He believed an ethical core matters. McCain united people around common ideals and fought the status quo when he felt it worked against democracy here and abroad. Like all men, he was flawed. But he sought the high road even when it cost him. “I will not take the low road to the highest office in this land. I want the presidency in the best way, not the worst way,” he said in 2000. McCain was open to learning. “I don’t mind a good fight. For reasons known only to God, I’ve had quite a few tough ones in my life. But I learned an important lesson along the way: In the end, it matters less that you can fight. What you fight for is the real test.” He spoke up when he felt the U.S. was losing its way. “We live in a land made of ideals, not blood and soil. We are the custodians of those ideals at home, and their champion abroad. We have done great good in the world. That leadership has had its costs, but we have become incomparably powerful and wealthy as we did. We have a moral obligation to continue in our just cause, and we would bring more than shame on ourselves if we don’t. We will not thrive in a world where our leadership and ideals are absent. We wouldn’t deserve to.” – 2017. McCain had a quiet faith and credited prayer with getting him through five years of torture in Vietnam. But he distrusted selfserving “too political, too public” religious factions and the intolerance they bred. In many, many places, the Bible lists qualities God values in human leaders. Among them are faith, humility, honesty, self-control, fairness, empathy, a willingness to learn and a deep desire for peace. Qualities God hates include the love of money, a quarrelsome nature and arrogance. Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. – I Timothy 3:2-7 (NIV) May the life of John McCain inspire future leaders to demonstrate their faith in action, not lip service. ❚ – Janine Pumilia

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Y K

Easy Back-to-School Meals in Minutes

hese simple ideas from the experts at Ortega can help make “taco night” and other Mexican meals better than ever. Encourage kids to get hands-on. Tacos are an obvious favorite, but other options like quesadillas, taquitos and Ortega Fiesta Flats are also easy to enjoy sans silverware. Find more recipes at Ortega.com. Poblano Ranch Tacos 2 TB olive oil 4 poblano peppers, sliced 1 yellow onion, sliced 1 TB fresh lime juice (optional) 1 box Ortega Corn Taco Shells 6 radishes, sliced

1 cup corn kernels 1 cup cotija cheese 1 Ortega Flavor Craver Ranch Taco Sauce, to taste Add olive oil to skillet over medium heat. Add sliced poblano peppers and yellow onion to pan. Saute until cooked through. Add squeeze of lime to pepper and onion mixture, if desired. Bake taco shells according to package directions. To assemble, add poblano and onion mixture to base of taco. Top with radishes, corn, cotija cheese & sauce. Steak Fajita Burrito Bowl Makes: 4 bowls 3 TB olive oil, divided 1 pound skirt steak 1 red & 1 yellow pepper, sliced 1 package instant rice 1 TB fresh lime juice 1/2 packet Ortega Taco Seasoning 1 Ortega Bakeable Tortilla Bowl Kit 3 cups green leaf lettuce, sliced 2 avocados, diced 1 cup corn kernels 1/2 cup cotija cheese 1 Ortega Green Taco Sauce, to taste

Add 2 TB oil to skillet over mediumhigh heat. Cook skirt steak 5 minutes on each side. Remove steak from pan and let rest. When cooled, slice into strips. Add remaining olive oil to skillet over medium-high heat. Saute red and yellow peppers until cooked through. Prepare rice as directed on package. Add squeeze of lime and taco seasoning. Stir to combine. Prepare tortilla bowls as directed on package. Fill with rice, shredded lettuce, sliced steak and peppers. Top with diced avocado, corn and cotija cheese. Finish with taco sauce. ❚

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R  O R

Woman’s Club Tour Spotlights Fine Homes T By Peggy Werner he Rockford Woman’s Club is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its building at 323 Park Ave. by putting the spotlight on beautiful and outstanding homes in the Rockford area. Five elegant, dramatic, high-end homes will be featured in the Fall Home and Garden Tour open to the general public from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 15. The tour is a continuation of the event that featured five other homes in June. The first tour got rave reviews, says President Nancy Whitlock, a long-time member of the Rockford Woman’s Club. “We were so pleased with the attendance and reaction from people during the spring tour; we hope even more people will come to see the next five homes. Each home is unique, one-of-a-kind, and meant to inspire,” she says. Homeowners will be available to answer questions and provide information.

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Otherwise, the tours are self-guided and people can go through the homes and grounds at their own pace, in any order that best suits them, she says. A home at 3475 Westminster Drive is a stately 1923 English Tudor style that has been totally remodeled to preserve original parts of the home but also create a new look. The unique home is owned by Jake and Ali Chance, owners of A. Tanner Design, an interior design and contracting firm. The home is situated on a hill surrounded by towering walnut, oak, and cherry trees. Inside, the timeless architectural style of the original home has been restored while living space and tasteful touches of modern design have been added. “This is what I do. It’s my passion,” says Ali. “It’s fun for me to show others what I’ve done in my home and I hope it gives them ideas and inspiration, while

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helping to raise money for a good cause.” The couple has lived in the home for three years. “A home is always an ongoing process,” says Ali. “I remember walking into this home thinking, ‘This is my forever home.’ We have invested a lot in this home and I hope people will appreciate seeing some of the original features and what’s new. Some parts are finished, some are not.” One of her favorite features is a sunken living room, which creates unique spaces by breaking up the floor plan and elevating the ceilings in that room. The furnishings are a collection of eclectic pieces, bringing together traditional and modern décor in each room, she says. The property at 9544 N. Second St. in Roscoe is a spacious home designed by local architect Gary Anderson and is situated on a bluff overlooking the Rock

R  O R River with a yard that includes about 15 acres of restored prairie, providing a habitat for many species of wildlife. Another property, at 12822 Ashfield Road in Caledonia, exudes luxury. The 2004 Parade Home is filled with distinctive custom millwork moldings, Brazilian cherry flooring, soaring ceilings and expansive windows. The décor features old world antiques and chandeliers with modern touches. Built to replace a home that burned in 2002, the hyperbolic paraboloid structure at 5635 Nebeshonee Lane is the brainchild of late businessman John R. Martin. A unique steel and glass construction is used to carry out the theme of a rising Phoenix. Expansive glass walls bring the outdoors inside with beautiful views of the river. Maniena Maring, a Rockford Woman’s Club member for 10 years, worked with another member, Earline Dickerson, to find homeowners willing to participate in the tour. She says the home on

Nebeshonee will pique people’s interest because it is so unusual. Maring says they wanted to showcase homes that were different from one another, yet have interesting architecture, great design, are beautifully decorated, well-maintained, and have nicely landscaped yards in aesthetic settings. “There are so many beautiful homes in Rockford that are incredibly stately,” says Maring. “The people who choose to open their homes for the tour are all interested in helping the Woman’s Club raise

money, while sharing with the community what they’ve done with their homes and gardens, knowing many people love to look at gorgeous homes and get ideas.” Breathtaking views can be seen from 7042 Kinnikinnick Dr., in Roscoe, a fully exposed ranch situated on the third hole of the Ledges Golf Course on a 1.29-acre wooded lot. Inside, the spacious home features an open floor plan with soaring ceilings and executive finishes. The finished lower level is beautifully appointed and features a sunroom that opens to a lush yard and in-ground pool. Tickets are $40 and may be purchased at rockfordtheater.com or in person at Crimson Ridge, 735 N. Perryville Road; Poska, 2213 E. State St.; Possessions, 1642 N. Alpine Road (at Highcrest Centre) Shear Renewal Salon, 2209 E. State St.; and both Village Green nurseries, 6101 E. Riverside Blvd. and 2640 N. Main St. ❚

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Y O

Law Enforcement Roast for CASA Aug. 30 B

elly laughs will be on the menu during a fundraiser for the Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program in Winnebago County. “Burning Bacon: a Night of Laughs,” with comedian Bob Zany, is Thursday, Aug. 30, from 6-9 p.m. at Giovanni’s Restaurant & Convention Center, 610 Bell School Road, Rockford. Local law enforcement leaders will go head to head in a roast battle. Guests will eat, drink and be zany as Rockford Police Chief Daniel O’Shea and Illinois State Rep. John Cabello (R-Machesney Park) face off against Winnebago County Sheriff Gary Caruana & Illinois State Rep. Brian Stewart (R-Freeport). Captain Jack and Double T from 96.7 The Eagle will be on hand to keep things lively, with a panel of celebrity judges including WTVO news anchor Eric Wilson, Midday Michelle from 97ZOK, JB Love from Q98.5, Riley O’Neil from WROK

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and Steph from 96.7 The Eagle. Comedian Bob Zany will work the crowd and perform his own comedy show following the roast battle. A $50 ticket includes gourmet bites created by Giovanni’s chefs. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. Purchase your tickets at Winnebagocountycasa.org. So just what is a CASA volunteer? A judge can request that a CASA be assigned to a case in which a child is impacted. The sole purpose is to gather objective information about the child’s situation and report it to the

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court so that the judge can make a better-informed decision with regard to the child’s welfare. Unlike the attorneys representing the interests of adult parties in the case, a CASA advocates only for the child. To learn more about becoming a CASA, go to winnebagocountycasa.org, or call the office at (815) 319-6880. If you live outside Winnebago County, find your local CASA organization at illinoiscasa.org/find-casa-by-county or wisconsin-casa.org/locations. If you can’t volunteer, consider donating to CASA, which receives no state or federal funding to support the children of Winnebago County. All funding comes from individual donors, fundraising efforts and grants. There are typically hundreds more children in need of a CASA in Winnebago County than can be helped by the 100-plus trained CASAs here. ❚

Y C

Gutter Business Was Born from a Young Mind By Peggy Werner

etired business owner Steven Young may not be ofﬁcially onthe-job, but his ambition, foresight, imagination, entrepreneurial spirit and resilience continue to work overtime. At 79, Young calls hard work “fun,” and can’t yet let go of his dynamic work ethic. Owner of Boone Packaging for more than 25 years, he worked for other companies until he got “fed up with their politics” or was fired, only to move onto another, better opportunity. “If something didn’t work out, I’d just shake it off and move to another idea,” he says. “It’s easy for me because when I get an idea I think will work, I just have to go with it. If I get an itch to do something, I just have to do it.” His latest adventure began when he couldn’t find the right gutter guards for his house.

“I looked around and everything I found was either too expensive or not going to work,” he says. So, he kept looking and found a manufacturer in California that made a high quality gutter guard with a 25-year warranty at a reasonable price. Not only did he buy the product for his own house, he is in the process of becoming the only dis-

tributer of the product in this area. Affordable Gutter Guards will be a division of TimberCrest Builders and Remodelers, which is owned by his son, Kevin. The company is already offering discounts up to $500 for the purchase and installation of the product. Steven will go on sales calls, measure homes, provide quotes and TimberCrest will provide the labor and installation. Gutter guards are important, he says, to prevent the build-up of pine needles and leaves in gutters that restrict water flow, ultimately causing damage to roofs and siding. And having gutter protection will also eliminate the danger involved when having to get up on a roof to clean out the gutters, he adds. ❚

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Y A C

Prevent Vehicle Trouble with Maintenance By Peggy Werner

f you drive a car, truck, recreational vehicle, have a ﬂeet of trucks, or any other motorized transportation, chances are you can ﬁnd everything you need at Scott’s RV, Truck and Auto Repair at 3301 American Road. Owner Scott Adkins started out in a shop like his own, and when it closed he saw an opportunity to continue to service people in the way he was used to doing. “I wanted a fair, honest repair shop where people could get everything done in one place. We’re pretty diversified in what we do, and it’s especially convenient for customers with more than one vehicle,” he says. He opened his business 11 years ago and quickly outgrew the small shop located just a half mile from his current location. In 2009, he bought a lot and put up a building that underwent a major expansion in 2014, bringing the number of

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work bays to 15. He employs five certified technicians in automotive services and diesel mechanics and a total of 11 employees. Adkins says it’s not too early to think about avoiding trouble down the road. “So many problems with vehicles can be prevented with routine maintenance. Oftentimes, what people think is the main problem is really a symptom of something else gone wrong,” he says. To get ready for winter, it’s a good idea to have the tires, battery, coolant, wipers, brakes and other moving parts checked. “Cars don’t need tune-ups as often as they used to, but it’s still a good idea to have a fall inspection. Everything works harder in the winter and you don’t want to have a breakdown on the coldest day,” he says. His business services every type of

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foreign and domestic vehicle, warranties its work for 12 months or 12,000 miles, has the latest diagnostic equipment and a waiting area with WI-FI, provides free shuttle rides within a limited area and does Illinois and federal DOT inspections. Learn more by calling (815) 8740800 or visit scottstruckandauto.com. ❚

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Y T

Routers Play Key Role in Data Security By Peggy Werner

ost people are careful not to give out personal information over their phone, yet they work every day on computers with inadequate security, says Primetime Audio Video General Manager Dirk Dutton. He says people pay attention to what they see and can hold in their hands, like cell phones and credit cards, but pay less attention to what they can’t see. “Their fears are in the wrong place,” says Dutton. “Smart devices are the most vulnerable items and hackers are working every day to find new ways to phish for information.” People spend thousands of dollars on phones, Ipads, laptops, computers and other electronics, but they rely on outdated and inexpensive routers that don’t have security updates, he says. The router takes the signal it gets

from a modem and delivers it to Wi-Fi, so people can see information on their devices, he explains. Especially in rental units, you don’t know the age of the equipment. It comes with a default username and password that should be changed right away to be made more secure. “The router is the foundation of a wireless system and should be as good

as the devices connected to it. Network security has been around as long as the internet has existed and is at the forefront of people’s minds in hospitals, banks, and other businesses, but the amount of security people have at home has been largely ignored. Everyone knows what Wi-Fi is and how to use it, but they don’t know much about it,” he says, adding, “Good network security and good Wi-Fi go hand in hand. Why have great service, but have equipment that slows you down and is unprotected?” Dutton recommends working with technology experts to upgrade equipment that will do security updates. People should expect to pay hundreds of dollars for a good router because as manufacturers learn about safety measures and implement them for the consumer, there is a cost for that technology, he adds. ❚

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English as A 2nd Language: How to Learn It D o you have a neighbor, close friend or co-worker who needs help speaking or reading the English Language? Do they or you struggle daily with reading simple instructions, prescription bottles, job applications, a child’s homework or today’s newspaper? “The Literacy Council exists to help,” says Sheryl Thogerson, executive director. Its mission is to provide adult education that includes English as a Second Language [ESL]. Instruction is offered to adults in small classes with a choice of day or evening classes and in two locations, Belvidere and Rockford. Lessons cover real life language skills needed to communicate on the job, at the doctor’s office, at a child’s school and in other everyday situations. “Our learners are adult men and women of all ages, nationalities, economic and social backgrounds,” she says. “Over the past 18 months, we’ve helped

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adults representing 37 languages in the task of speaking, listening, reading and writing English. Along with English literacy, our basic computer courses are critical components in helping our learners adapt and function in today’s society.” The high quality instructors provide an encouraging and supportive learning environment and guide learners to success. A recent ESL learner told Thogerson, “The best thing I have learned is how to pronounce words I could only read before. I am a better grandma because I understand my grandkids more. Studying at The Literacy Council is important to me because it has helped me to learn idioms and common expressions that are very useful in my daily life.”

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These foundational skills open doors to employment and the ability to take a more active role in the community, says Thogerson. They also strengthen families and therefore the communities in which they live. The Literacy Council, 982 N. Main St., Rockford, offers these classes and all programs at no cost to the learner. Learn more by calling (815) 963-7323. ❚

Y H

Mercyhealth Only State-Designated Children’s Hospital

his summer, Mercyhealth became the only state-designated children’s hospital in the northern Illinois region. It earned this honor from the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (IDHFS) because of the wide spectrum of children’s services it provides through its State of Illinois-designated Regional Perinatal Center, Level III (highest level) Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Small Baby Unit, Level II Pediatric Trauma Center, Pediatric Critical Care Center, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and 50-plus pediatric physicians who provide care in 26 subspecialties. The charitable care provided by Mercyhealth to the community also spurred the Children’s Hospital designation. Mercyhealth’s Perinatal Center provides medical direction for an 11-county region in northern Illinois. It’s the only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in the region, caring for premature newborns who are critically ill or require surgical intervention. Its Small Baby Unit cares for the smallest of micro-preemies born at less than 27 weeks or weighing less than 2.2 pounds.

In 2017, Mercyhealth Hospital-Rockton Avenue was designated a Level II Pediatric Trauma Center by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). It’s the only one in Rockford and one of only ﬁve Illinois hospitals designated as being capable of providing comprehensive trauma care to children who’ve suffered blunt force trauma, penetrating wounds or head injuries in crashes, falls or violent acts. Also, Mercyhealth is recognized as one of only 10 Pediatric Critical Care Centers by the IDPH, which means it provides the highest level of specialized critical care in its 20-bed Pediatric Unit and 7-bed Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). The 50plus pediatric specialists provide care in 26 specialties, including 24/7 neonatology and

24/7 pediatric hospitalist services. “We take great pride in giving infants and children the best possible start in life, and are proud to be the only hospital in the northern Illinois region to have earned state designation as a Children’s Hospital,” says Javon R. Bea, President and CEO of Mercyhealth. “Caring for the region’s smallest and youngest patients, especially those who are less fortunate, is an honor.” It’s because Mercyhealth is the statedesignated Regional Perinatal Center for the northern Illinois region, and the fact that it’s the largest Medicaid and charitable provider in northern Illinois, that the state gave this designation to Mercyhealth. Last year, Mercyhealth partnered with the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago to bring super subspecialty services to Rockford, including pediatric cardiovascular surgery, pediatric plastic surgery, pediatric urology, pediatric hematology/oncology, and 24/7 consultative and telemedicine coverage for pediatric neurocritical care, infectious disease and pediatric emergency medicine. ❚

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Y F Autumn just might be the best time of year. The sun is a little lower (and prettier), the air is a little crisper (and cleaner) and the leaves cascade down in colorful splendor. This fall, spend some quality time in the fun, nearby, value-packed Rockford Region. See stunning fall colors at

Real. Original. SM

Anderson Japanese Gardens, the finest in North America. Visit beautifully spacious Rock Cut State Park. Don’t miss Klehm Arboretum & Botanic

ILLINOIS, USA

Garden, with more than 500 different species of trees, shrubs and vines, all 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

Music on the Mall – Edgebrook Most Fridays 6:30-8:30 p.m. Bring your own chair. 1639 N. Alpine Road, (815) 226-0212, edgebrookshops.com. Rockford, IL 61101

1.800.521.0849

gorockford.com

RAM Midwestern Biennial Show Now thru Sept. 30, daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. RAM, Rockford, (815) 968-2787, rockfordartmuseum.org. 9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

Rockford City Market On Aug. 31 featuring music by Long Shot on the Main Stage. City Market runs on Fridays thru Sept. 28. Foraging: Eat Local, Drink Local Aug. 29, 6-7 p.m. Hear about the importance of native plants, pollinators and water conservation, and how they tie in to what we like to eat and drink. Register online. From Natural Land Institute at Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., (815)964-6666, naturalland.org. Barb City Stompers Sept. 1, 7 p.m. From DeKalb, the birthplace of barbed wire, this group has a jazzy style described as Hot-Swing-Traditional with a dash of New Orlean’s sass. Spring Creek United Church of Christ, 4500 Spring Creek Road, (815) 877-2576, springcreekucc.org. FAM: Art in the Park Sept. 2, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The festival includes fine art displays, performing arts, demonstrations of various art media, children’s hands-on activities, music and food concessions. Freeport Art Museum, Krape Park, 1799 S. Park Blvd, Freeport, (815) 235-9755, freeportartmuseum,org. Tunes on the Terrace: After 5 Jazz Sept. 5, 6-8 p.m. The trio performs traditional, smooth and original jazz compositions in a class/vintage night club style. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, (815)987-8858, rockfordparkdistrict.org/ncg. AE: “Women in Jeopardy” Sept. 6-23, Thur.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 2 p.m., Sun. 4 p.m. In this comedy, Liz has a new man in her life and her friends want to be supportive, but suspect that he's a serial killer. Artists’ Ensemble (AE), Cheek Theatre, Rockford U., 5050 E. State St., (815) 3945004, artistsensemble.org.

Enjoy Freeport's Art in the Park festival Sept. 2

'The Realistic Joneses' Thru Sept. 8, Thu.-Sat. 8 p.m. Meet the Joneses, two suburban couples with identical homes and shared last names. As their relationships begin to intertwine, they must decide between their idyllic fantasies and their imperfect realities. [usual]Suspects, Nordlof Center. rockfordpubliclibrary.org. Beattie is…Back Sept. 8, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. A family-friendly festival featuring an artist market, art demonstrations, a make-and-take creative zone, live music and specialty food vendors. Rockford Area Arts Council, City Market Pavilion, 100 Water St., Rockford, artsforeveryone.com. Magic & Music Sept. 8, 7 p.m. Arch Smith is back with finely honed magical skills; John Lindhorst rounds out the evening with his ukulele melodies. Spring Creek UCC, Rockford, (815) 8772576, springcreekucc.org. Presley, Perkins, Lewis & Cash Sept. 8, 7:30 p.m. A tribute to the four men who stood at the center of the advent of rock and roll. Egyptian Theatre, 135 N. 2nd St., DeKalb, Ill., (815) 758-1215, egyptiantheatre.org. RSO: Farkle and the Wolf! Sept. 9, 3 p.m. A family-friendly matinee concert cleverly explores the instruments of the orchestra, told through John Lithgow’s “The Remarkable Farkle McBride” and Prokofiev’s symphonic fairy tale “Peter and the Wolf.” Rockford Symphony Orchestra, Starlight Theatre, Rock Valley College (RVC), 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford, (815) 9212160, rockvalleycollege.edu. ❚

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Aug. 29

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Healthful, Fresh Fare at Thrive Café

By Peggy Werner

n expanded menu, longer hours, new equipment and new seasonal items at Thrive Café, 6731 Broadcast Parkway, are making the Rockford area a much healthier place to live. Owner Jason Rager is a personal trainer and has a strong commitment to helping people live healthier lives by making all menu items from fresh ingredients with no additional fat, sugar or dairy products. “Customers are so excited about what we have to offer,” says Rager. “Because everything is fresh and made to order, we get a lot of people wanting to eat healthier because they are ill or on a special diet, or just following a national trend of everyone wanting to eat healthier.” New this spring are items that can be made with hot food because of a new grill that was installed earlier this year. All bowls, wraps and salads can

be topped with grilled chicken, salmon or tuna and hot vegetables. Other new items are cleansing vegetable juices, cashew nut milk, shrimp spring rolls, a vegetable quiche and a caramelized onion and mushroom quiche, both made with a sweet potato crust. All salad dressings are made in house and are gluten-free and dairy-free. Among the most popular protein smoothie is the “Cool Down,” made with Almond Milk, Spinach, natural peanut butter, banana, protein powder and cinnamon. Exotic fruit smoothies include the Dragon Slayer, made with Dragon Fruit, coconut water, banana, pineapple, mango and chia seeds. Super food micro bites are made with peanut butter, granola, guiltless chocolate or tropical mango. Rager started out in the summer of 2015 with Thrive Café at Peak Sports

Club, 4401 Peak Drive, specializing in freshly made cold pressed juices and smoothies, and that location remains open. He opened the second location about a year ago, with an expanded menu and seating for up to 20 people. Thrive Café on Broadcast Parkway is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and closed on Sundays. ❚ ❚

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Baci’s Kitchen  Fast-Casual, dine-in, carry-out. 2990 N. Perryville Road, inside A Perryville Place. (815) 329-6922. Open 7 days/wk. at 8 a.m. BkLD. Complete menu at Baciskitchen.com. Bravo Pizza  Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, South Beloit, Ill., (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $. Capital House  Lunches, fine dining, sushi bar, gourmet coffee & pastries, martini bar. 308 W. State St., Rockford, (815) 708-8989. LD T-Th 11am-10pm, Fri.-Sat. 11 am-10pm. $-$$$. Ciao Bella Ristorante Upscale-Casual/Italian-American. Daily specials. 6500 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, Ill. (815) 654-9900. LD M-F 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 5-10 p.m. $$

3473. BkLD M-F 11am, Sat-Sun 8am. Bar open late. $$$. Hearthrock Cafe  Restaurant/cafe. Baked goods, coffee, breakfast, lunch. Inside Benson Stone Co., 1100 11th St., (815) 227-2000. BkL M-F 7:30am-3pm; Sat. 8am-3pm. $-$$. Maciano’s Pizza & Pastaria  Casual. Pizza, Italian favorites, beer & wine. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, (815) 633-7500; and 5801 Columbia Pkwy., Rockford, (815) 2275577. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $$. Olympic Tavern  Upscale-Casual/American. 2327 N. Main St., (815) 962-8758. Extensive beer list. LD M-Th 11 a.m.-midnight; Fri-Sat. to 2 a.m. $-$$.

Cucina di Rosa  Italian Bistro/Bakery 1620 Bell School Road, (815) 395-5040. BkLD. M-Sat 7am-9pm. $$

Prairie Street Brewhouse  Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$.

Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant  Casual/Mexican. 5855 E. State St., (815) 227-4979. LD $-$$.

Rock Cut Concessions  Casual American. BkLD. Daily 8 a.m.-7 p.m., open to 9 p.m. on Friday for fish fry.

Fresco at the Gardens.  Casual/American Café. 318 Spring Creek Road, (815) 316-2256. BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$

Taco Betty’s  Casual/Mexican-American. 212 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 977-5650. LD Daily 11am-1am. $$.

Giordano’s  Casual/Italian. Stuffed pizza, salads, entrees, sandwiches, desserts. 33 Executive Parkway, Rockford, (815) 398-5700. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11 pm.

Union Dairy  Ice cream treats, grill food. Locally sourced. 126 E. Douglas, Freeport. LD Daily 11am-10 pm. Grill closed Sundays and after 8 pm. $$.

GreenFire  Upscale-Casual/American contemporary. Live entertainment. 6795 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, (815) 316-

Thrive Café  Casual. Healthful food & drinks. 6731 Broadcast Pkwy, Loves Park. BkLD M-F 7am-8pm, Sat 9am-5pm. ❚

Smart Living Weekly

Aug. 29

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In the Spotlight Bravo Pizza

ith more than 40 years in the restaurant business, Joe Ocello knows how to create an authentic dining experience. Since opening the first Bravo Pizza & Italian Restaurant location in 2001 with wife Francesca, the couple has been refining its classic Italian fare. Most items are made from scratch, ensuring a home-made meal with fresh ingredients. The Italian beef, served au jus or with tomato meat sauce, was named Best in the Stateline by MyStateline.com in 2013. Top sellers include Italian meatball sandwiches, fettucine Alfredo and fish specials. “We make it all ourselves. Each meatball is about a quarter pound apiece, so they’re huge,” says Ocello. Bravo has locations in South Beloit and Poplar Grove. Both offer a full-service bar, catering, carry-out and delivery services. Learn more at Bravopizzarestaurant.com. ❚

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Aug. 29

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10 Tips for an Easier College Move-In Day M

oving a college freshman into a dorm can be stressful. Here are some tips from Justin LaVelle, of peoplelooker.com, to make it a little smoother. 1. Start Packing Two Weeks Ahead It’s a good idea to start spending just 30 minutes a day, two weeks before you leave, so you’re not overloaded with a huge to-do list. 2. Use Storage Bins To Pack Your Stuff Instead of cardboard boxes or plastic bags, use storage bins because they’re easier to pack, you can use them for storage later and, if you’re using the kind that go under your bed for things like extra linens, towels or clothes, unpacking is unnecessary. 3. Keep It Light You don’t need a winter coat in August. Winter clothes can be picked up on a weekend trip home or shipped to you. 4. Talk To Your Roommate Find out who your roommate is and co-

ordinate on move times and shareable items, like a TV or a coffeemaker. 5. Bring An Overnight Bag When you’re exhausted from lugging stuff around and meeting new people, you won’t want to scramble through bags for a toothbrush and change of clothes. Keep your essentials in an overnight bag or backpack. 6. Bring Drinks & Snacks Because move-in day is tiring and you’re going to want them. 7. Bring Cleaning Supplies & Tools Bring items like trash bags and cleaning wipes for tidying up, scissors and wall mounting strips. 8. Check the College Website To make sure you’re doing what you’re supposed to do, check your college’s website and read about the move-in policies and important info. Look at the campus map and figure out where you need to park, pick up your key and unload your

stuff. Also check the to see if there’s a list of banned items. 9. Wear Comfortable Clothes Sneakers are a must! Also stylish athleisure is perfect, as you can comfortably go from unloading items to grabbing dinner without having to change. 10. Bring Three or Fewer People There will inevitably be a lot of commotion on campus, so you don’t want your whole family along for the day. Above all, enjoy the day and remember to take a few pictures for posterity. ❚

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

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Aug. 29

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