Smart Living Weekly - February 15, 2017

Smart L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • Feb. 15, 2017

™

Right in Our Region

Beloit International Film Festival 2017

See Page 20

How to Eat for Weight Loss Is Your Home Properly Insulated?

Yummy Stuffed Green Pepper Recipe Choose the Right Dog Breed Get Organized in 2017!

FREE, WIN!

$25 Gift Card from GreenFire Restaurant

See Pg. 32 for Details

Best of Life Information for Residents & Visitors Proudly Serving the Needs of 326,000 Neighbors - For Your Home, Health & Fun!

Smart Living Weekly

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In This Issue Right in Our Region .......................Cover & p. 20 Beloit International Film Festival Your Home .................................................. ..9,11 Is Your Home Properly Insulated?/Get Organized!

Inspiration & Worship .....................................12 Doors Wide Open Your Kitchen ....................................................15 Stuffed Bell Peppers Your Outings ...................................................17 VanVleet Fundraiser Your Health ............................................. .........25 Eat to Lose Weight Your Fun ................................................... ........27

Your Dining & Dish of the Week ............28 & 29 Cannova’s Your Backyard .................................................19 Feed the Birds Your Pet .................................................... ........31 Choose the Right Dog Breed

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Janine Pumilia Assistant Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen Deputy Editor Jermaine Pigee Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Ryan Contributing Writers Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes Advertising Sales Representatives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones, Bob Ulmer Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Website www.SmartLivingWeekly.com Published by Hughes Media Corp.

222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 (815) 316-2300, Fax: (815) 316-2301 lhughes@northwestquarterly.com Smart Living Weekly.

Copyright 2017 by Hughes Media Corp., 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

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Four We Love

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n Monday we’ll celebrate two presidents who set the standard for selflessness in public service – George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. How special for us that Illinois was Lincoln’s chosen home and that the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library is in Springfield, Ill., rather than Kentucky, where he was born. If you’ve never been to this interactive wonder, you’re in for a real treat.

Lincoln spent about 30 years in Illinois until he was elected president in 1860.

We’re also fortunate that Chicago was chosen as the site of the (all privately funded) $500 million Barack Obama Presidential Center, expected to open by 2021. Obama’s birthplace of Hawaii competed for it and lost. (No sympathy here for Hawaiians, who don’t need a library to attract tourists.) Obama moved to Chicago after graduating Harvard Law School in 1991.

President Ulysses S. Grant, born in Ohio, moved his family to Galena, Ill., but was soon called away to serve the Union Army. To me, Grant is among the most interesting and under-rated American presidents, more widely celebrated as the general who finally turned the tide toward Union victory. Grateful townspeople presented his family with the home in Galena that we tour today. It contains many of the furnishings used by his family, but not many documents. Ironically, his 17,000-linearfoot presidential library collection is stored in the deep south, at Mississippi State University.

I’ve no idea why but it involved a lawsuit.

It’s also ironic that we have the least notable landmarks to show for the one Illinois president actually born here – Ronald Reagan.

The Reagans chose Simi Valley, Calif. as the site of their library, in 1987. Through no fault of Dixon residents, who are fiercely proud of their native son, the Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home has fallen into disrepair and badly needs funds to restore it. Born in Tampico, Reagan spent most of his childhood in Dixon before seeking his future in Hollywood in 1937.

I can think of no other state that boasts four presidents as beloved or unique as Lincoln, Grant, Reagan and Obama. It’s one more remarkable aspect of our region. Have a great week! ❚ Janine Pumilia Managing Editor

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Y H  G

Is Your Home Properly Insulated?

By Jermaine Pigee, deputy editor

K

eeping your house warm this winter starts with making sure it’s properly insulated.

Unwanted drafts, mold and low air quality can come from poor air sealing or inadequate insulation, says Julia Swanson, operations manager for Saunders Insulation Specialists, 9016 Swanson Drive, Roscoe.

“If you’re sitting in your home and you feel a draft, there’s a reason why,” Swanson says. “You have to seal up those holes, especially in the attic.”

You may notice cold spots in certain areas of main floors, too.

“Some of the walls in your closet may not have insulation, which is why some of them may be cold.”

Along with cold drafts, inadequate insulation can cause excess moisture in a non-insulated room, which can lead to mold and mildew.

“That happens when there’s a lack of insulation or humidity,” she says. “It increases when temperatures go down because air holds moisture.”

Swanson says foam insulation works best to seal cracks in a home.

“Foam insulation has the highest R-value (insulating power) per inch and it seals the home at the same time,” she says. Some insulation problems should be addressed by professionals; others can be tackled by homeowners.

“People can grab a can of spray foam at Menards and crawl into their attic to look for crevices and fill them.”

In addition to the attic, cold air may infiltrate from around light fixtures, ceiling fans and that electrical box in the basement.

“Wires come in through the walls and electricians have to drill holes, which can allow air in,” Swanson says.

In winter months, cold air pushes warm air generated by the furnace upward to the attic, where it leaves the home through leaks. This happens because cold air has a higher density and moves through the home at lower levels.

This process, which Swanson calls “the stack effect,” is an important reason to insulate your attic.

Save money and remain cozy this winter by preparing now, and meeting the challenge head-on. ❚

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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.

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I  W

Doors Wide Open

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hen Jesus came into the world, he preached primarily to the nation of Israel. After his resurrection, and before his ascension to Heaven, however, he instructed his 11 remaining disciples (Judas had killed himself) to share the good news of salvation with all people of the earth.

This is known as “the great commission.”

“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’”

(Matthew 28:18-20.)

Imagine the shock and resentment some Jewish Christians must have felt when they learned God had thrown the doors wide open to invite all people who believed to receive eternal life. After all, it was the Jews who had protected Hebrew tradition for many centuries, often enduring cruel persecution for their efforts. They alone had been God’s chosen people and often had resisted the societal pressures to worship multiple gods.

No one was more deeply aware of this than the apostle Paul, who had once climbed the ranks of Jewish leadership and even persecuted Christians. But he wrote to the young church at Galatia, “There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28) Jesus defied many other social norms as well, when he showed compassion to people his society most despised: the sick, weak, young, poor, outcast and foreign. He even called a tax collector (never a popular profession) to be a disciple.

God’s ways are not man’s ways. “ Many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first.” (Matthew 19:30).

It’s little wonder that Jesus’ message of salvation offended so many stakeholders – and still does today, as we struggle to see others as Christ sees them.

“For you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28) Do we really believe it? ❚ – Janine Pumilia

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Y K

A Classic Recipe Makeover: Stuffed Peppers I

t’s true that classics never go out of style, but they can also evolve to keep current while still maintaining their original appeal.

Take stuffed peppers. It’s easy to give them a Tex-Mex spin simply by using a can of READ Southwestern Bean Salad as the base for the filling. The salad already has black and kidney beans, hominy and corn in it, as well as a slightly spicy dressing. Build on that flavorful combination by adding browned ground beef or turkey, cheese and tortilla chips.

Poblano peppers could be substituted for bell peppers for an even more authentic south-of-the-border flair.

For more easy, flavorful dinner ideas, visit READsalads.com.

Southwestern Bean Salad Stuffed Peppers Ingredients: 1 can READ Southwestern Bean Salad

1 tsp. ground cumin 1 small jalapeno pepper, minced (optional) 1/2 pound ground lean beef (90 percent lean) 1/2 cup chopped onion 3 large bell peppers, any color or combination nonstick cooking spray 1 cup crushed tortilla chips, plus 1/4 cup (optional), divided 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided

Preparation: Drain bean salad; discard liquid. With fork, mash half of beans until chunky. Combine with remaining beans. Stir in cumin and jalapeno, if desired; set aside.

In medium skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and onion 8-10 minutes until ground beef is completely cooked, stirring frequently.

Cut bell peppers in half, lengthwise. Remove membranes and seeds. Line baking pan with aluminum foil. Spray with nonstick cooking spray (or brush lightly with vegetable oil).

Heat oven to 350 F.

Combine ground beef and onion mixture with bean mixture. Stir in 1 cup tortilla chips and 1/2 cup cheese. Divide evenly among peppers. Arrange peppers cut-side up in prepared pan; peppers should fit snugly. Top with remaining crushed tortilla chips, if desired. Bake, covered, 25 minutes, or until peppers are tender and filling is heated through.

Sprinkle with remaining cheese and bake, uncovered, until cheese melts. ❚

Source: Family Features

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You’re Invited to our Open House!

Come discover the difference Rockford Lutheran can make in your child’s future.

9:00AM - 1:00PM TUESDAYS / GRADES K - 5 / 1711 Delcy Dr. WEDNESDAYS / GRADES 6-12 / 3411 N. Alpine Rd. THURSDAYS / PRESCHOOL / 2001 N. Alpine Rd.

www.RockfordLutheran.org Please contact Julie Behmer, Director of Admissions, at 815-877-9551 ext. 158 or jbehmer@rockfordlutheran.org with any questions.

Rockford Lutheran School admits students of any race, color, nationality or ethnic origin.

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Y O

Van Vleet to Host Youth Sports Fundraiser

By Lorem Ipsum

T

oronto Raptors rookie and Rockford native Fred VanVleet will host an FVV All-Star Party Feb. 19 at The District Bar & Grill, 205 E. State St., in downtown Rockford. The event is part of a fundraising effort to bring additional sports tournaments and events to the Rockford region and marks the first joint venture between VanVleet and the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (RACVB).

The FVV All-Star Party includes musical performances sponsored by Urban Equity Properties from local musicians Ashleye Armelin and RAJU. In addition, there will be a silent auction, buffet dinner and the NBA All-Star game will be on throughout the night for fans to enjoy.

Doors will open at 5 p.m. for a silent auction and VIP meet and greet. At 6 p.m. a pre-game show will be presented

by RAJU. An NBA All-Star Game begins

at 7 p.m. At 8 p.m. there will be a halftime show featuring Ashleye Armelin and silent auction winners will be announced at 8:30 p.m.

General tickets cost $30 and include a game-day food buffet, live music, a silent auction and more.

VIP package tickets cost $50 and include the above plus a guaranteed meet and greet and autograph with VanVleet.

Purchase tickets at The District Bar & Grill or gorockford.com/allstarparty.

The event is open to all ages but alcohol will be served only with valid photo ID. Proceeds from the event will go to RACVB Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit focused on enhancing the community through projects like Forest City Beautiful and Rockford 5-0 Youth Basketball.

The RACVB aims to help VanVleet establish a new basketball camp and tour-

nament at the UW Health Sports Factory this summer.

Learn more by calling Josh Albrecht at the RACVB at (815) 489-1655 or go to gorockford.com. ❚

Get SLW Outings articles every week. Visit smartlivingweekly.com and start your e-Edition today.

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Different Seeds Attract Different Birds

By Peggy Werner ird feeding is not just a fun hobby for homeowners; it’s also an essential part of the equation for helping birds have the energy and nutrients they need to stay warm in winter.

“Birds can lose up to 15 percent of their entire body weight on an especially cold night. They need energy from food to fly, to reproduce in the summer and to stay warm in the winter,” says Phil Rezin, owner of Wild Birds Unlimited, 631 S. Perryville Road in Rockford.

Normally, birds use feeders to supplement other food sources available in nature, but when the temperatures dip, they rely on backyard feeders more than ever to get those much-needed calories for survival, he says.

The sale of fresh, high-quality bird seed accounts for about half the business at Wild Birds Unlimited in Rockford, Rezin says.

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“Our seed comes in weekly, moves quickly, and is always stored inside. Seed, like produce, comes from plants and the longer it sits around, the less nutritional value it has,” he says.

High-quality birdseed provides the most calories because it’s pure seed.

“There’s no waste in any of our seed,” says Rezin. “Waste is a common problem with most birdseed because it’s 70 to 80 percent filler, consisting of cereal and other grains that birds won’t eat.”

Various blends attract various birds.

Sunflower and safflower-based seed blends attract cardinals, chickadees, nuthatches and finches. Woodpeckers, blue jays, titmice and nuthatches all like nuts with their seed.

The best seller, though, is the “no mess blend,” which is pure seed with no hulls. Hulls make a seed blend about 40 percent inedible because the birds don’t eat them and when they are discarded

they can sprout and cause unwanted vegetation in a yard.

“A lot of people like to see birds cracking hulls, for their own entertainment, but the birds don’t care about hulls,” says Rezin. “If birds are what you want to see, tell us what kinds of birds you like and we can help you get them in your yard.” ❚

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R  O R

The Buzz About Beloit International Film Festival

By Lindsey Gapen, assistant managing editor

B

eloit International Film Festival (BIFF) is one of the most significant cultural events in our region. For 10 days, downtown Beloit welcomes hundreds of visitors each day. Filmmakers and film lovers intermingle in the local bars and restaurants, while the top 100 films from more than 1,000 submissions evoke intelligent discussion.

“If you’ve experienced BIFF, I don’t have to ask you to come back because you’ll already want to,” says Rod Beaudoin, BIFF executive director. “It’s a world class festival with the warmth of a small town.”

Now in its 12th year, BIFF takes place Feb. 24 through March 5 and tickets are $9 per film. In the final days before the festival, there’s palpable excitement among the team members as they finalize the lineup. They’ve chosen the best documentaries, narrative features

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and short films to showcase at the festival. Within those categories, there’s a variety of dramas, psychological thrillers, historical fiction and more.

It’s easy for the BIFF team to mention a few favorite films at this year’s festival.

The narrative feature “Demimonde” ranks high on everyone’s list. Filmed in Hungary, “Demimonde” is a murder mystery that takes place in the early 1900s.

“It’s just so beautifully shot,” Beaudoin says. “The costumes are amazing and the cinematography is stunningly beautiful. It’s a real piece of art.”

“Dead Slow Ahead” causes disagreement among team members. The film is classified as a “slow burn,” or a film that places emphasis on slower, yet significant moments in life.

“A slow burn is something you’re going to watch if you’ve been deep into

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film and you’ve become bored of the typical thing,” says Adam Fogarty, BIFF programming director.

During prescreening, many people rated “Dead Slow Ahead” high on the 0-10 scale, while others ranked it lowest.

“Some people thought it was one of the best films they’ve ever seen, and some people thought it was the worst,” says Max Maiken, assistant director.

“That’s a film where the ranking feels more like a matter of taste, as opposed to a proper interpretation of quality,” Fogarty adds.

For a quality feel-good film, Beaudoin recommends “Growing Up Smith,” a coming-of-age story about an immigrant experiencing the American Dream.

When it comes to documentaries, “American Street Kid” is one of Beaudoin’s top picks. Shot in Los Angeles, the film examines homelessness. Beaudoin

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finds it’s one of the better documentaries he’s seen over the years.

The team puts forth much effort in deciding which venue to place each film in, and at what time. The festival spans six venues within close proximity to one another. Over the years, certain venues have become known for showing specific types of films.

Domenicos, an Italian Restaurant, is known for showing top-choice documentaries. Bushel and Peck’s, a local market and cafe, shows comedies and dramas, while Bagels and More shows a combination of documentaries and dramas in a

more intimate setting.

La Casa Grande, the largest downtown venue, shows what the team expects will be the hit films of the festival.

“Sometimes we’re wildly accurate, and sometimes we’re way off the mark,” Beaudoin says. “Each film gets two showings in the festival, but there can be as many as five. So, toward the back end of the festival, we show what we think are blockbusters at La Casa Grande.”

During the first weekend of the festival, BIFF exclusively showcases films made by Wisconsin and Illinois residents.

Beaudoin has a few top picks.

“Thank You For Your Service” is one he expects to do well, since Beloit is home to many veterans.

Another is “60 Yard Line,” which is expected to be popular with the BIFF audience. Made in Green Bay, Wis., this narrative feature is all about The Packers.

BIFF has a couple special events that have become a tradition. Since early on,

the festival has presented a silent film with The Beloit Janesville Symphony Orchestra providing music throughout. This year, Beaudoin is changing things up and featuring the Beloit Memorial High School Jazz Orchestra.

“Music is such an integral part of a film, even in the early days during silent films,” Beaudoin says. “The high school jazz orchestra is nationally recognized, so we thought it would be great to switch over to the high school this year. We can also provide more seats in the high school auditorium.”

Other traditions include showing a classic film and a musical at Luxury 10.

This year it’s “The Graduate,” now 50 years old. The musical is “A Hard Day’s Night,” with music from The Beatles.

“People love to get dressed up and sing along during the musical,” Beaudoin says. “And as for the classic film, we want to pay homage to the great films outside the silent era.”

Find more information about BIFF at beloitfilmfest.org. ❚

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Y T

Reduce the Cost of Monthly Tech Bills

By Peggy Werner

W

hile thinking about all the money you have to spend this holiday season, why not also think about ways to save money on your monthly tech bills?

EZ Satellite & Wireless, 6239 N. 2nd St., Suite B, in Loves Park, can help with that.

“People are paying too much for phone, internet, and television services by using just one company,” says Charles Zambrano, owner. “You don’t have to choose just one company to save money.

People get excited when they see promotions because they’re just looking at the price, which will jump up dramatically after the special offer ends. Plus, they don’t always know exactly what they’re getting – and what you don’t know can hurt you.”

When you purchase TV and internet service through EZ Satellite & Wireless, you’ll get a $100 gift card when you share the news with someone else.

EZ Satellite & Wireless is an authorized dish network retailer and also is licensed to offer services from any other provider using dish, cable, internet and home security, such as Comcast, Frontier, HughesNet, DishNet, DirectTV, Digitenna, and Vivint.

The company offers the highly rated Protect America home security service for $19.95 per month.

EZ Satellite specializes in helping people make the right choices based on what they need and where they live, so they can save money.

The family-owned business opened in 2011, in Roscoe, and moved to a larger, more visible location in Loves Park last May, adding a new bill-paying center for customer convenience. EZ Satellite & Wireless is a full service retailer for satellite TV and internet, and can also help people to acquire cable services. About 80 percent of his business is working with residential customers in Southern

Wisconsin and Northern Illinois. The company also works with businesses.

After working for many years as a satellite dish installer for one of the local providers, Zambrano decided to go out on his own to be more in control of his life and to help others do the same.

“I love to see people’s faces when they find out how much money they can save,” he says.

For more information, contact EZ Satellite & Wireless at (815) 957-4335 or stop by the office. ❚

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Weight Loss: It’s All About What You Eat

By Peggy Werner

T

his time of year, people flock to the gym hoping to work off those extra pounds.

It’s always a good idea to get to the gym, but it won’t make up for what you put into your mouth, says Phil Toldo, International Sports Sciences Association certified personal trainer and sports nutritionist at Peak Fitness and Sports Club in Rockford and Loves Park.

“Losing weight and body fat is about 80 percent of what you eat and about 20 percent of what you do at the gym. That shocks a lot of people,” he says.

Toldo has a three-point plan for helping people to lose weight.

First, you have to look hard at what you’re eating. Find out how many calories you’re taking in daily and eliminate processed foods and sugar. Make meals and snacks from lean protein, fruits and vegetables and healthy carbohydrates.

“People are so afraid of carbs, but if they eat the right ones, it’s OK,” says Toldo. Depending on your goals, a good starting point for daily caloric intake would consist of 30 percent fat, 40 percent carbohydrate and 30 percent protein.

Secondly, once you know what you’re eating, start making changes and drop about 200 calories a day until you see results. He recommends no less than 1200 calories a day to get proper nutrition. Keep meals small and more frequent and you will be more satisfied and maintain your energy level, he says.

“Everyone loses weight at a different rate. Just keep making small adjustments so you keep seeing results. You don’t want to feel miserable; you want to restrict yourself as little as possible to get the results you want,” he says.

Thirdly, increase your daily activity by walking and working out. If new to exercising, start out with just 10 to 20

minutes a day and gradually add time, intensity and frequency as you progress.

“When it comes to diet and exercise, too many people want dramatic results too fast,” he says. “They end up getting discouraged, frustrated and injured. They eventually just give up. I’m happy if my clients are losing 2 to 4 pounds and 1 percent body fat per month. Think of food as fuel for the body, not a source of entertainment.”

For more information, call Peak Fitness at (815) 398-7300 or Peak Sports Club at (815) 877-4401. ❚

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

Real. Original.

SM

Anderson Japanese Gardens, the finest in North America. Visit beautifully spacious Rock Cut State Park. Don’t miss Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, with more than 500 different species of trees, shrubs and vines, all

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

Travis Tritt Feb. 16, 7:30 p.m. Performing some of his biggest hits, including “T-R-O-U-B-L-E,” “It’s a Great 1.800.521.0849 Day to be Alive” and “Best of Rockford, IL 61101 gorockford.com Intentions,” the Grand Ole Opry member brings his award-winning songs to life during this upclose and personal event. Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-0595, Coronadopac.org.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

“The Graduate” Feb. 17-March 5, Fri. & Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m.

See the play adaption of the classic novel and cult film. Benjamin Braddock has just finished college and he’s trying to avoid the one question everyone keeps asking: What does he want to do with his life? An unexpected diversion crops up when he is seduced by Mrs. Robinson, a bored housewife and friend of his parents. But what begins as a fun tryst turns complicated when Benjamin falls for her daughter, Elaine. Pec Playhouse Theatre, 314 Main St., Pecatonica, Ill., (815) 239-1210, pecplayhouse.org.

Rockford Boat, Vacation & Fishing Show Feb. 17-19, Fri. 3-8 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Whether you’re interested in buying a fishing boat, pontoon or personal watercraft, or you seek charters, guides & lodging, this show has what you’re looking for.

Mercyhealth Sportscore 2 and Indoor Sports Center, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, Ill., (815) 997-1744, landroproductions.com.

Shrek the Musical Feb. 17-19, Fri. 7 p.m., Sat. 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., Sun. 3 p.m. An ogre named Shrek is the unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Nordlof Center, J.R. Sullivan Theater, 118 N. Main St., Rockford, (920) 412-7151, ctpytp.org.

Spectacular Saturday: Switzerland Feb. 18, 10:30-noon. Travel to a new location each month in this family program series. This month, learn about Switzerland through its art, culture, history and traditions. Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, (815) 397-9112, midwayvillage.com.

Black History Month Celebration Feb. 18-19, 1-4 p.m. Patriotic veterans share their firsthand stories in "Afican-American Veterans

The synchronized skating championships come to the BMO Harris Bank Center Feb. 23-25.

from World War II and Beyond." Veterans Memorial Hall, 211 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 969-1999, veteransmemorialhall.com.

“42nd Street” Feb. 22, 7:30 p.m. This quintessential backstage musical comedy classic is the song and dance fable of Broadway, with an American Dream story that includes songs such as “We’re In the Money,” “Lullaby of Broadway,” “Shuffle Off to Buffalo,” “Dames,” “I Only Have Eyes For You” and of course, “42nd Street.” Coronado Performing Arts Center, Rockford, (815) 9680595, coronadopac.org.

Painted Birdhouse Class Feb. 17, 10 a.m.-noon. Lighten your heart and welcome birds to your yard. In this hands-on class, participants learn the process of turning a birdhouse into a work of art. Supplies are all provided and no prior experience is required. Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford, (815) 965-8146, Klehm.org.

Synchronized Skating Championships Feb. 23-25. Synchronized skating is a team sport in which 8-20 skaters perform a program together. See 96 teams compete. BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford, ussnchrochampionships.com.

Irish Marching Society Parade March 11, parade starts 3 p.m. The Irish Marching Society presents its annual St. Patrick's Parade with food, drinks and entertainment to follow. Parade begins on 5th avenue, south of the BMO Harris parking lot. Festivities follow at Prairie Street Brewing Company, 200 Prairie St., Rockford, irishmarchingsociety.com.❚

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

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Feb. 15

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WDL

Restaurant of the Week

Cannova’s Fine Italian Cuisine

By Paul Anthony Arco

C

annova’s has been serving up authentic Italian dishes and pizza since 1921, when Anthony and Philippina Cannova started the restaurant – a pizzeria in the back of the grocery store they ran at 607 E. Winneshiek St., in Freeport. After son Frank returned from World War II, he took over and moved Cannova’s to its current location in 1964.

Today, their granddaughter, Linda, and her husband, Patrick Beckman, carry on the tradition, at 1101 W. Empire St. They use many of Frank’s original recipes for pizza, spaghetti sauce, Italian beef, fresh bread and pizza dough. House specials include a Sicilian filet marinated in olive oil and red wine, Italian-style baked cod, and seafood Alfredo. Desserts include Linda’s made-fromscratch tiramisu, cheesecake and chocolate spoon cake.

“Cannova’s is a wonderful place,” Pat Beckman says. “It gives people a great place to go. It’s not overly expensive, and we have great food and great music.”

Then there are the pizzas: the Classic, with diced tomatoes, fresh basil, spinach and sweet basil; the New York, with olive oil on the crust, fresh garlic, mozzarella and diced tomatoes with a house cheese; the double-crusted Gloria Read, named for a longtime customer; and the a Sicilian, with sliced Italian sausage and pepperoncinis,

voted “best traditional pizza” by Pizza Today in 2001. Cannova’s Chicken Tuscany pizza earned a silver medal at the 2005 International Pizza Expo in Las Vegas.

The friendly rapPat and Linda Beckman port among staff and customers is another reason for the restaurant’s success. Many employees have worked there for 10 to 25 years. “This business is interesting because of all the people that you meet. Being in a smaller town like Freeport, you know everyone,” Beckman says.

“We have people who grew up working here and are still here. It’s fascinating to see the evolution of people. It’s like a family.”

Cannova’s is home to jazz quartets, folk musicians and musical theater groups throughout the year. For two weeks in December, it hosts a popular holiday dinner theater.

Cannova’s is open Sun.-Tues. 5-10 p.m. and Fri.-Sat. until 11 p.m. ❚

Top Picks for Local Restaurants 9 East Coffee E Casual/Coffeehouse. Specialty coffees, pas- sandwiches, desserts. 33 Executive Parkwy., Rockford, (815) tries, breakfast, lunch. 9 E. Stephenson St., Freeport, (815) 398-5700. LD Sun-Th 11 am-10 pm, F-Sat to 11 pm.

233-7300, BkL M-F 7am-3pm, Sat 7am-2pm. $ Giovanni’s/Big Al’s Bar/Alchemy E Upscale-casual/AmeriArturo’s Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Authentic Mexican. 107 can. Three dining rooms. 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford.

W. Main St., Poplar Grove, Ill., (815) 765-1144. LD M 11am-8pm; (815) 398-6411. LD M-Th 11a.m.-10 pm, F to 11 pm, Sat 3-11 pm. Live entertainment, open late. $-$$.

T-Th to 9pm; F to 10pm; Sun noon-8pm. $.

Bravo Pizza E Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, South Be- GreenFire EUpscale-Casual/American contemporary. Sealoit, Ill., (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $. sonal cuisine; local-sourced ingredients; gourmet market; live entertainment. 6795 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, (815) Cannova’s Italian Cuisine E Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., Free316-3473. BkLD M-F 11am; Sat-Sun 8 am. Bar open late. $$. port, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. $-$$.

Local Dough Cafe E Restaurant/cafe. Baked goods, breakCosta’s Ristorante E Upscale-Casual/Italian. 133 Blackhawk fast, lunch, dinner, beer, wine. 202 W. Main St., Rockton, Dr., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. LD Daily 4pm. $-$$.

(815) 957-0584. BkLD W-Sun 7 am-6 pm. $.

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit ECasual/BBQ. 845 S. Perryville Road, Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint E Fine Dining. Ironworks Rockford, (815) 599-1110. LD Daily 11 a.m.-9 p.m. $-$$.

Hotel, 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, (608) 313-0700. D Sun-Th Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Mexican. Authen- 4:30-9pm, Fri-Sat to 10pm. $$. tic dishes, lunch menu. 5855 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 227Prairie Street Brewhouse E Upscale-Casual/American. 200 4979. L D Sun-Th 11 a.m.-10 p.m., F-Sat to 10:30 p.m. $-$$.

Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Franchesco’s Ristorante E Upscale/Italian-American. Som- Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$. melier, live entertainment. 7128 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, Thrive Café E Casual/Cafe. Salads, wraps, sandwiches, (815) 229-0800. LD Sun-Th 4-9pm, F-Sat to 10pm. $$ smoothies, cold-pressed juices. Inside Peak Fitness, 4401 Peak Fresco at the Gardens. E Casual/American Café. Fresh, local- Drive, Loves Park, Ill. BkLD M-F 6am-8pm, Sat 8am-2pm. sourced ingredients. 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) Vito’s Ristorante E Casual/Fine Dining. Carry-out, steak & 316-2256 BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$ seafood, Italian specialties, pizza. 4866 Bluestem Road, RosGiordano’s E Casual/Italian. Stuffed pizza, salads, entrees, coe, Ill. (815) 312-5080. D Mon.-Sat. 4 p.m.-close. $-$$.. ❚ 28

Smart Living Weekly

Feb 15 To advertise call 815-316-2300

In the Spotlight Merrill & Houston's Steak Joint

L

ocated at 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, inside the Ironworks Hotel, the restaurant features mouth-watering steaks, along with a full-service menu of fish, chicken and and sea food selections.

Named after the men whose 1858 foundry became Beloit Corp., Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint celebrates Beloit’s rich industrial history.

Many of its components are constructed with repurposed materials salvaged from historic buildings. Leather seats, hardwood floors and many historic photographs lining the walls give the space a rustic feel.

Merrill & Houston’s is available for private and corporate events. The main dining room seats 120 and the banquet room can accommodate 200 guests.

Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint is open daily at 4 p.m. ❚

Vito’s Dish of the Week Name of Plate: Conchiglie alla Sarda (Con-jil-ee) Restaurant: Vito’s Ristorante 4866 Bluestem Road, Roscoe Description: Vito’s signature dish! Featuring shell pasta in a tomato-cream sauce with peas and ground sausage.

Why does this dish stand out?

“This is our most popular dish,” says Chef Vito, owner. “This dish is our best seller and dates back all the way to my culinary training days in Chicago.”

Vito’s Ristorante offers dine-in, carry-out and banquet room services. The restaurant opens Mon.-Sat. at 4 p.m.

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Feb 15

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Y P

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Smart Living Weekly

Feb 15

Y P

Choosing the Right Dog Breed for You

By Peggy Werner

W

hen it comes to picking out man’s (or woman’s) best friend, don’t be too hasty.

“People see a puppy, think it’s cute, buy it and bring it home without knowing anything about the particular breed and if it will be a good fit for the owner or family home where the dog will live,” says Dave Schnidt, owner of Dave’s Doggie Den, 107 St. Louis Ave., Rockford, where dogs can be groomed, trained, and attend daycare.

When it comes to choosing a pet, think about your own lifestyle, he says.

Do you live in a small apartment or a big home in the country? Do you want a low-key lazy lap dog or a high energy hound that needs a lot of play time and exercise? Are you going to mostly snuggle or jog with your dog? Do you want a faithful friend or a fierce protector? Are there kids in the house or small children in the neighborhood? Do you mind fur all over your favorite sofa or will that drive you crazy? And, in case you didn’t

know, all dogs require some training and the bigger they are, the more they eat. So, with all costs adding up, will a dog fit into your budget?

These are questions that need to be answered before buying a dog.

Schnidt says people need to research the breeds, talk to other dog owners, a veterinarian, and others who have experience working with dogs.

In general, some breeds are predictably less aggressive, such as labradors, poodles, golden retrievers, beagles, and hounds, while chows, German shepherds, rottweilers, and pit bulls can be more aggressive, especially with other dogs and

animals, he says.

With some information, people can be well matched to their pets, which can provide years of unconditional love and companionship. Studies have shown that loving and caring for a pet can be good for a person’s health, helping to lower blood pressure and reduce stress. ❚

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Keep your attaboys and pats on the back.

After a long, hard day’s work, all these men wanted was

a good steak dinner.

WELCOME TO MERRILL & HOUSTON’S STEAK JOINT. A restaurant inspired by a time when the best rewards resulted in a full belly. A restaurant inspiring you to reward yourself each and every dinnertime.

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Located in Downtown Beloit, Wisconsin

Smart Living Weekly

Feb 15 To advertise call 815-316-2300

500 Pleasant Street • Beloit, WI 53511 • Phone: 608-362-5500

MerrillAndHoustons.com

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