Smart Living Weekly January 22, 2020

Sm mart a r t L iving Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • Jan. 22, 2020

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Right in Our Region

Discover Nature in Outdoor Events

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Where are the Birds this Winter?

Carpet Still Preferred in Bedrooms Tips for Preventing Home Water Damage Your Vehicle May Need Some Winter TLC

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$25 Gift Card to Arch

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

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WELCOME HOME! BECAUSE IT IS HOME OPENING FEBRUARY 2020 - NOW LEASING! The TLC Living Community is an assisted living community designed to provide a vibrant, yet secure and comfortable way for its residents to age in place.

From an independent life experience to assistance with healthcare needs, you’ll get it all without leaving the comfort of your apartment. Conveniently located in Machesney Park, TLC Living Community offers an abundance of included amenities…too many to list here! Call for a personal tour to see for yourself why everyone is celebrating!

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8702 N. 2ND ST., UNIT B MACHESNEY PARK, IL 61115 / (815) 242-2852 / WWW.TLC-MP.COM /  FOLLOW US

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 16 Discover the Beauty of Nature in Winter Your Home ................................................... ..... 11 Why We Still Love Carpet; Prevent Water Damage Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 God Loves Humility Your Kitchen ......................................................15 Mushroom Turkey Nachos; Cooking for One Outdoor Living ....................................................2 Where are the Birds?

Your Health ............................................. .......... 23 Reduce Allergens in Your Home Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 Baci’s Kitchen Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 26

Your Auto ........................................ ....... ...........29 Winter TLC for Your Vehicle

Smart L iving ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen Lukas Assistant Managing Editor Jermaine Pigee Editor Emeritus Janine Pumilia Multimedia Editor Sara Myers 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 Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Distribution Kelly Fairbairn 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 2019 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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So Just What is Tech Mag Live?

D

o you remember the first time you used the Internet? Wrote an e-mail? Used a cell phone?

I vividly recall the first Apple desktop home computer I ever saw, purchased by my Harlem High School biology teacher, Jerry Falzone, in the late 1970s.

“Groovy, but why is it named after a fruit?” I asked him, half wondering if he’d been swindled.

“Trust me, this is the future,” he said.

Lots of technology is mystifiying at first. We can’t see why we would ever need it, but soon wonder how we ever got along without it. (Downton Abbey fans recall how suspicious Mr. Carson was of the first electric toaster ordered by his future wife, Mrs. Hughes.)

Now a different Hughes, our publisher Bill Hughes, is employing some new technology to improve your reading experience.

You may have noticed the masthead on our cover now says “Live” after the words “Smart Living.”

That’s because Northwest Quarterly and Smart Living are now offering Augmented Reality technology. Once you download a free Wikitude phone app, you can hold your cell phone above one of our articles or ads marked with a yellow circle icon and see video images spring to life, along with sound.

Example: In our current issue of Northwest Quarterly, you’ll find an article about Rockford’s brilliant young musician, Emily Bear. Not only can you read detailed information about Emily that only print media provides, but now you also can see and hear her performing by using this app.

Crazy, right? What’s next? Smell-avision?

Technology just keeps evolving and we either adapt or miss out.

Learn more about TechMag Live in issues to come and have a very groovy week! ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor

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Y H  G

Cozy Carpet Still a Favorite in Bedrooms

By Jermaine Pigee, assistant managing editor

M

ore people are using stylish hardwood and luxury vinyl tile in their living rooms these days, says Kevin Rose, owner of Carpetland USA, 326 N. Alpine Road, Rockford. But soft and cozy carpet isn’t leaving bedrooms any time soon.

“In the Midwest, we still have our frigid winters and the warmth and comfort of carpet as you step out of the bed in the morning is preferred,” Rose says.

Carpet also keeps the bedroom quieter.

Plush pile and berber carpet styles are popular and are made from many kinds of fiber. People who are more cautious when they walk may prefer shortlooped berber for its firmness; others prefer the luxurious density of pile carpet.

For homes with kids and pets, Rose recommends flooring that withstands moisture, such as spill-resistant hardwood and laminate.

You don’t have to shy away from

carpet if you have pets and kids, however. Many newer carpets have pet-proof backings that don’t allow urine to soak into padding and subfloors. Some carpet is made from non-absorbent yarn, so spills can be easily cleaned without leaving stains.

No matter what type of flooring you purchase, Rose recommends doing your homework first.

“A common mistake that people make is purchasing a product solely on price and assuming it has a level of quality that will sustain your living space,” Rose says. “You get what you pay for, as the old saying goes. Our staff will explain the pros and cons that suit your family and your home, not what suits everyone else walking through the front door.”

When shopping for flooring, describe your space to the salesperson helping you. What kind of traffic and mois-

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ture conditions will the flooring need to withstand? What styles appeal to you visually? What expectations do you have for the longevity of this flooring?

“Make sure your salesperson understands what you want and make sure they’re listening to your needs,” he says.

A trained salesperson who thoroughly understands the flooring industry can provide a great deal of assistance as you winnow down the options that satisfy your criteria. ❚

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I  W

God Loves Humility

S

ome things in scripture are crystal clear.

One is that God despises arrogance.

In hundreds of verses throughout the Old and New Testaments, God condemns arrogance and exalts humility. Indeed, it was Lucifer’s excessive pride that got him kicked out of Heaven. God told him:

“Since your vast business planning filled you with violent intent from top to bottom, you sinned, so I cast you away as defiled from the mountain of God ... Your heart grew arrogant because of your beauty; you annihilated your own wisdom because of your splendor.

Then I threw you to the ground in the presence of kings, giving them a good look at you!” (Ezekiel 28:16-19, ISV) Proverbs 11:2 tells us, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.”

King David, the only human God referred to as “a man after my own heart” (I Sam. 13:14 & Acts 13:22), expressed humility. “O Lord, my heart is not lifted up; my

eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me.” (Psalm 131:1) Jeremiah 9:23 tells us, “... Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches …”

Visit the new temporary exhibit Discovery Town

January 18 to May 10

Kids can explore the vet clinic, fire station, pizza shop, post office and more!

815.963.6769 DiscoveryCenterMuseum.org 711 N. Main St. Rockford, IL 61103 #discoverycentermuseum

Jesus told his followers in Luke 14:11 (ESV): “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” When his disciples argued over

which of them was greatest, Jesus told them:

“If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.” (Mark 9:35) Paul instructs, in Philippians 2:3: “Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.”

And in James 4:6: “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

How are we to behave? “So be imitators of God, as his dear children. Live lovingly, just as the Messiah also loved us and gave himself for us as an offering and sacrifice, a fragrant aroma to God.” (Ephesians 5:1, ESV) ❚ – Janine Pumilia

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Y K

Mushroom Turkey Nachos M

ushrooms, with their inherent umami flavor, are a perfect addition to increase both flavor and nutrition.

Chefs kicked off the trend by blending finely chopped mushrooms with meat for burgers that are flavorful, healthy and Earth-friendly, and now blended burgers are showing up in school cafeterias, supermarket meat counters and fast food drive-thrus.

MasterChef Junior finalist and teen chef Evan Robinson likes to blend multiple varieties of mushrooms into family favorites such as tacos, burgers and stuffed peppers.

“I find that blending mushrooms into some of my go-to recipes helps increase the flavor while reducing the amount of fat and sodium,” Robinson said.

Recruit kids as kitchen helpers to tackle tasks such as wiping mushrooms clean and using their hands to blend the meat and mushrooms together.

For more family-friendly, blended recipes, visit Blenditarian.com.

Blended Mushroom Nachos

Recipe courtesy of Chef Evan Robinson. Servings: 4 5 5 1 1/4 1 10

shiitake mushrooms white button mushrooms clove garlic cup chopped onions TB Mexican meat seasoning oz. ground turkey

Cheese Sauce: 1 TB butter 1 TB flour 1 cup milk 1 1/4 cups shredded cheese tortilla chips salsa (optional) guacamole (optional) kale (optional) romaine lettuce tomatoes (optional) cilantro (optional) diced red bell peppers

In blender or food processor, pulse mushrooms, garlic and onions. In large saute pan over medium-high heat, mix

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mushroom mixture with seasoning and cook 2 minutes. Add ground turkey, breaking into fine crumbles until completely cooked through. Set aside.

Cheese Sauce: In medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt butter then add flour and whisk constantly, breaking up lumps. Stir 2 minutes then add milk and continuously whisk. Stir in cheese and mix with wooden spoon.

Assemble chips on serving platter; spread mushroom-meat crumble on top. Add sauce and toppings like salsa, guacamole, kale, romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro and diced red bell peppers, if desired.

(Source: Family Features)

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Right in Our Region

Discover Winter Beauty at Outdoor Events N

By Peggy Werner ature lovers know winter is a great time to get outside and explore, and they want others to enjoy the season, too.

People suffering from cabin fever don’t always know what to do or where to go, says Forest Preserves of Winnebago County Marketing and Community Relations Manager Jamie Johannsen.

For that reason, the forest preserve works in partnership with nature centers and organizations, as well as local businesses, to plan and promote activities which are publicized on individual websites and on 815Outside.com.

“Winter offers some of the best opportunities for wildlife observation,” says Johannsen. “The lack of leaves and the die-back in vegetation reveal many signs of life that exist all around.”

Upcoming events include A Family Snowfari from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 25 at Severson Dells Nature

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Center, 8786 Montague Road, and a Guided Snowshoe Hike on Sunday, Feb. 2, at Kieselburg Forest Preserve, 5801 Swanson Road, Roscoe, Ill. A Honeysuckle Hiking Stick workshop will take place from 9:30 to 11 a.m.

Saturday, Feb. 22, at Severson Dells.

Honeysuckle, an invasive plant, takes on a new and useful purpose when transformed into walking sticks. Nature Educator Ellen Rathbone will provide the tools and training needed to transform the plants into walking sticks. Register by calling (815) 335-2915 by Feb. 17 or go online at seversondells.com. Register online for Family Snowfari by Jan. 22.

Kevin Versino, general manager of Rocktown Adventures, 313 N. Madison St., organized the guided snowshoe hike.

Recently retired Rocktown Adventures employee Rick Barton will be the guide.

Versino says the event, which can be

Jan. 22

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enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities, will include instruction on snowshoes and how to use them.

“If you can put one foot in front of the other, you can snowshoe and you don’t even need a lot of snow,” he says.

“Snowshoeing is the fastest-growing winter sport. You can access trails and other places you couldn’t get to otherwise.”

Poles will be provided.

“Just do it to take on the challenge, make friends, and feel a part of a community,” he says.

R  O R

Rocktown Adventures sells and rents outdoor equipment and apparel and provides lessons, guided trips and private trips. Call (815) 636-9066, stop in at the store or go to rocktownadventures.com.

Forest preserves are open all winter long, says Johannsen. Some hard paths are kept cleared. Visit winnebagoforest. org to see a list of areas accessible to vehicles and pedestrians in winter.

Whether walking, hiking, cross country skiing, snow-shoeing or bird watching, nature’s playgrounds always have a lot on display.

For example, without foliage on trees, people can identify them by their

shape and bark. They also can see various animal homes more easily in winter and can learn about the shape, location and materials of bird nests. More than 30 bird species live in this area in winter and many are actively looking for seeds.

Animal tracks indicate where animals have been, how large they are and if they’re hunting or not. Droppings tell us about an animal’s health, diet, and how recently it was at a location. River otters leave slide marks along the river’s edge.

Look for signs of deer and beaver where they have gnawed on bark.

Where there’s open water on our region’s four rivers, find Canada geese as well as Mergansers, Goldeneyes and other diving ducks. Bald Eagles can be seen fishing in open waters.

Great Horned Owls begin calling for mates from November through January and may be heard at dusk or early dawn. Short-Eared Owls, Rough-Legged Hawks, Saw Whet Owls, Snowy Owls and Long-Eared Owls are all species

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found here in winter, too.

Severson Dells Naturalist/Educator Andrea Wallace Noble says many animals are especially active during mild winters, like the one we’ve had so far.

“Every species has a different way of handling winter, but most mammals stay active unless they have to protect themselves from the harshest weather conditions,” she says.

Not as many bird species are using feeders this winter because they can still find food on the ground. Also, some birds who normally leave the area during the winter have stayed because it’s been relatively warm, says Wallace Noble.

“The unseasonably warm weather affects the migration patterns and activities of the birds,” she says.

“I appreciate this time of year because you can see so much. Our mission is to connect people to nature and to help them discover the wonderful treasures we have in our own back yard. Dress right, and you can enjoy nature at any time.” ❚

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Your Home & Garden

How to Prevent Indoor Water Damage

By Peggy Werner

W

ater damage can be incredibly destructive to your home. A few preventative steps can help you to avoid unwelcome surprises, damage, and expense.

“People going away on vacation, whether for days or months, should turn off the water to their whole house,” says Chris Picot, general manager of Flood Pros, 11137 Bertram Road in Rockford.

“People don’t always think to do that, but it only takes a couple hours to cause thousands of dollars worth of damage because of water.”

Frozen pipes, worn-out appliances, and leaks or breaks in water lines, roofs and windows can all lead to water damage.

Picot also suggests having a plumber change out water supply lines from plastic ones to rubber hoses encased in braided stainless steel, which prevents flexing.

Plastic ice maker water lines can be changed to copper. Copper water lines leading to the outside in unheated areas of the home should be shut off in the winter. Water lines in exterior walls should be well insulated.

Flood Pros has been in business since 1992 and works around the clock to respond to water problems quickly. A water damage specialist explains to customers the process of water damage restoration and helps with processing an insurance claim, if needed.

The company has state-of-the-art equipment such as thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to determine the source of water damage. It also uses high-powered dehumidifiers and large air movers to reduce drying time to three days or less, in most cases. By recording

data on each damaged area, Flood Pros can determine what progress is being made. Totally drying an area eliminates mold or other pathogenic growths from developing.

For more information, visit floodpros.net or call the Rockford office at (815) 398-2379. The Janesville location is at 2811 Milton Ave. and its phone number is (608) 756-9300. ❚

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Outdoor Living

Where are the Winter Birds?

By U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Great Lakes Region

H

ave you noticed that the number of birds visiting your yard each winter seems to fluctuate year to year?

What you might be experiencing is called an irruption – a sharp, irregular movement of birds to an area where they aren’t normally found.

Typical migrations consist of predictable, regular movements within a specific time frame and between the same geographic areas. Migration is driven by instinctive responses to environmental cues related to seasonal changes. Irruptions are a different, less predictable type of migratory behavior triggered by a lack of food in a bird’s typical range.

Irruptions can result in birds being spotted outside of their typical home range. In extreme cases, birds may wander hundreds or even thousands of miles from their typical winter ranges. A wide variety of birds can have irruptions, in-

cluding owls, hawks, shrikes, waxwings, nuthatches, chickadees, a variety of finches and many kinds of woodpeckers.

If you watch closely, you may be lucky enough to spot a bird that’s normally uncommon in your area.

Irruptions are driven by a predatorprey relationship. The predators are birds and the prey is a wide variety of foods such as seeds, fruit and rodents. Each seed eaten results in a lower chance for the plant to reproduce. Plants combat this by releasing a super abundance of seeds when possible. In these years, there’s way more food available than what is needed for seed-eating birds to survive. As a result, the birds and the plants are able to thrive. The birds can remain in their winter habitat without having to travel in search of food and the plants have produced so many seeds that there are plenty left to germinate in the warmer months

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Black-capped chickadee perched on a branch.

Photo by David Ellis/USFWS.

and eventually grow into mature trees.

If you aren’t seeing many birds at your feeders, you may worry that bird populations aren’t doing well, when in fact, it may be the complete opposite.

Birds almost always prefer natural food sources. Fewer birds at your feeder may be the result of more natural food sources.

In years when conditions aren’t favorable for seed production, trees conserve their energy and make fewer seeds.

During those winters, many birds have no choice but to utilize any other available food sources, including your bird feeders.

Whether it’s a busy or slow season at your feeder, enjoy winter bird watching. ❚

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Y H

Professional Cleaning Reduces Allergens

By Peggy Werner

A

allergens thrive in your home every month of the year.

Paul McCann, owner of Stanley Steemer, 9958 N. Alpine Road, says they build up in the home year round and the only way to banish them is to have floors, grout and carpets professionally cleaned.

“No matter how good you are at cleaning, there are microscopic particles of dust, pet dander, dead skin cells and pollen that build up in the home,” he says.

Stanley Steemer’s equipment, people and products set his business apart, he says. He can remove about 94 percent of common household allergens from carpet, 96.5 percent from tile and grout and 96 percent from hardwood floors, while leaving behind no residue. This makes life safer for pets and people, he says.

All employees of Stanley Steemer undergo a criminal background check, are drug screened, thoroughly trained and

certified, he says. Stanley Steemer has the Asthma and Allergy Friendly certification from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, which was created to scientifically test and identify consumer products that are more suitable for people with asthma and allergies.

Chemicals used by Stanley Steemer meet the criteria for the Environmental Protection Agency’s “safer choice” category, which helps consumers find products that are safer for both human health and the environment.

Professional equipment outperforms home machines by reaching higher temperatures with more pressure and vacuuming ability to get the best results, he says.

Stanley Steemer makes its own equipment and cleaning products in the U.S.

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McCann recommends people get all flooring cleaned every spring and winter.

Depending on their lifestyles, number of children and pets, some may need to professionally clean more often.

Contrary to what some people think, professional cleaning is not hard on flooring, he says.

“We never get the carpet so wet that it goes through the backing. If you use the right products and technique, cleaning will not cause wear.” ❚

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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

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Winter Fun Attractions & Events

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.

Frosty Fridays Fridays 8-10 p.m. Enjoy indoor ice skating with family and friends; discounted packages Rockford, IL 61101 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com available.

Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Road, Loves Park, Ill., (815) 969-4069, rockfordparkdistrict.org.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

Cross-country Ski Fridays Fridays through March 1 when there's snow.

Also Feb. 22, 8 p.m. Skis, boots, poles and a guide provided. Ages 10 and up. Reg. online.

Byron Forest Preserve, 7993 N. River Road, (815) 234-8535, byronforestpreserve.com.

Enjoy "Swan Lake" at the Coronado Jan. 25.

strength of a family whose grandmother fights to retain her independence in the face of Alzheimer’s disease. Byron Civic Theater, 850 N. Colfax St., (815) 312-3000, bctmagic.com.

Coffee and Climate Conversation Jan. 22, Feb. 5 & 26, 9-11 a.m. Look at the most current data, discuss the science and determine what actions we can take at home.

Reg. online. Welty Environmental Center, Beloit, (608) 361-1377, weltycenter.org.

Jazz at the Egyptian Jan. 25, 7 p.m. DeKalb and Sycamore High School Jazz Ensembles & NIU Jazz Orchestra.

Egyptian Theatre, 135 N. 2nd St., DeKalb, Ill., (815) 758-1215, egyptiantheatre.org.

Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition Jan. 22-25, sunrise-10:30 p.m. Teams from around the state compete to represent Illinois in the national snow sculpting competition.

Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. 2nd St., (815)9878800, ilsnowsculpting.com.

Eagle Watch Weekend Jan. 25, 9 a.m. Birds of prey shows and family activities at the Starved Rock Visitor Center, Lodge and Illinois Waterway Visitor Center.

See schedule at illinoisaudubon.org. Oglesby, (815) 220-7386, starvedrocklodge.com.

PJ Masks Live: Save the Day! Jan. 23, 6 p.m. Featuring an adventure with favorite preschool superheroes.Coronado PAC, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

Makerspace for Kids Jan. 25, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Kids 5-14 program an Ozobot, fly a mini-drone, make Shrinky Dinks, make a catapult; experience an escape room for kids and families. Byron Forest Preserve, (815) 234-8535, byronforestpreserve.com.

Orchesis & Rockford City Dance Concert Jan. 23-25, 7:30-10 p.m. Produced in collaboration with local artists, in honor of Orchesis’ founder Prof. Jayne Poor, artist and educator.

Rockford U. Dance Co., Maddox Theatre, 5050 E. State St., (815) 226-4100, rockford.edu.

Nate Bargatze Jan. 24, 7 p.m. The comedian, actor and writer is touring the US with his show “A Good Problem to Have.” Coronado PAC, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

'Tales of Our Farms' Jan. 24-26, Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 2 p.m.

This locally-written play is based on true stories of life on the farm in Rock County. JPAC, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.

'The Waverly Gallery' Jan. 24-26 & 31, Feb. 1-2, Fri.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. This play captures the humor and

Candlemas Celebration Jan. 25, 11 a.m. Learn about the Scottish tradition of Candlemas by experiencing the bagpipe music and rituals of this celebration.

Hart Interim Library, Rockford, (815) 9657606, rockfordpubliclibrary.org.

National Ballet of Odessa: Swan Lake Jan. 25, 7:30 p.m. Set to Tchaikovsky’s music, this full-scale ballet follows a young prince as he works to free a beautiful swan maiden from a spell. Coronado PAC, (815) 965-0049, rockfordsymphony.com.

Rockton Yeti Fest Jan. 29-Feb. 1. Enjoy yeti hunting, ice skating, dog sled mushing, drinking and shopping.

Settlers Park, 150 E. Hawick St., Village Green Park, 100 E. Chapel St., Rockton, Ill., (815) 624-0935. ❚

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WDL

Something New is Always Cookin’ at Baci’s

By Peggy Werner

N

ikko Castrogiovanni sees his business as constantly evolving to give people what they want from his full -service, all-day offerings of Italian and American cuisine. These include many health-conscious and vegetarian options.

“We offer great customer service, fresh foods and a great atmosphere,” he says. “People are pleasantly surprised when they come here and they make plans to return. And many people are still trying us out for the first time.”

Baci’s Kitchen is located at 2990 N. Perryville Road, Rockford, inside A Perryville Place, between Olde Creek and Spring Creek roads. It offers carryout, catering, delivery and full table service, with reservations highly encouraged. It also has a private gaming corner, a sit-down bar, daily specials and live music most Fridays and Saturdays.

Among favorite items on the menu are 10 oz. burgers, such as a mushroom

burger with caramelized onions, Swiss cheese, portabella mushrooms and bacon; the avocado burger topped with lettuce, tomato, black beans, avocado, American cheese and onion; and the Baci Blue, with bleu cheese, bacon and purple onion.

Also beloved is Baci’s Mac and Cheese, made with corkscrew pasta that’s baked and lightly topped with panko crumbs. There are many options, like Alfredo Mac and Cheese with shrimp, peppers and broccoli.

For breakfast, waffles, omelets, skillets and ala carte items are available as well as breakfast pizza starting at $14 in three sizes, made with scrambled eggs and a choice of sauces, cheeses, toppings and meat. There are also breakfast bowls like Greek yogurt with fresh berries, granola, bananas and honey or sweet potato and egg with avocado and kale. Costs range from $4.50 to $8.

Lunch/dinner options include sand-

wiches, soups, panini, wraps, specialty salads, pizzas, calzones and full-blown entrees like peppercorn-encrusted sirloin filet for $22 or lasagna for $14.95.

Among Baci’s healthful signature protein bowls is the Salmon Bowl, with blackened salmon filet, brown rice, sesame seeds, spinach, avocado, edamane and shredded carrots for $14.

Hours: Sun. 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; Mon.Wed. 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thurs.-Sat. 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Learn more at baciskitchen.com. ❚ ❚

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Baci’s Kitchen E 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.

Backyard Grill & Bar E Casual/American. 5390 Elevator Road, Roscoe, Ill., (815) 623-6677. 2nd St., Loves Park, Ill., (815) 6369430. LD M-Th 11am-midnight, F-Sat to 2am, Sun noon-10 p.m. $-SS. Bravo Pizza E Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, S. Beloit, Ill., (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $.

Ciao Bella Ristorante EUpscale-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. $$ Cucina di Rosa E Italian Bistro/Bakery 1620 Bell School Road, (815) 395-5040. BkLD. M-Sat 7am-9pm. $$ Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Mexican. 5855 E. State St., (815) 227-4979. LD $-$$.

Fresco at the Gardens. E Casual/American Café. 318 Spring Creek Road, (815) 316-2256. BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$ Gene’s Irish Pub E Casual/Irish Pub. American and Irish fare.

Over 21 only. 1025 5th Ave., Rockford, (815) 977-4365. LD T-Th 11am-10:30pm, F-Sat to midnight. $$.

Giordano’s E 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.

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Hearthrock Cafe E 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. $-$$.

Lino’s E Italian/American. 5611 E. State St., Rkfd. (815) 397-2077. D M-Sat 4:30am-10pm; Sun. 4:30am-9 pm. $$.

Maciano’s E Casual Italian. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, (815) 633-7500; & 5801 Columbia Pkwy., Rkfd., (815) 227-5577. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $-$$.

Mary’s Market Cafe & Bakery E Baked goods, sandwiches, salads. 2636 McFarland Road, Rockford, (815) 986-3300; 1659 N. Alpine Road, Rockford, (815) 394-0765; 4431 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 397-7291. BkLD Hours vary by location. $.

Olympic Tavern E 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. $-$$.

Prairie Street Brewhouse E Upscale-Casual/American.

200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$.

Salamone’s North E Italian-American. 2583 N. Mulford Road, Rkfd. LD. Sun. noon-10 p.m.; Mon.-Th 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat. noon-11 p.m. (815) 639-1200 Stockholm Inn E Casual/American, Scandinavian emphasis.

2420 Charles St., Rockford, (815) 397-3534. BkLD M-Sat., Sun. brkfst. only. M-Th 7a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri. & Sat. 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

Sun. 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Weekend brunch. Large menu, Swedish pancakes specialty. $$ ❚

Jan. 22

To advertise call 815-316-2300

In the Spotlight

Hearthrock Cafe

B

enson Stone Company’s Hearthrock Café has introduced new items to its already-popular menu. Head Chef Todd Cooper is following the popular farm-totable trend, working with seasonal and fresh ingredients as much as possible.

One of his most popular new creations is the Smoked Andouille Sausage Flatbread, with a homemade Marinara sauce, fresh mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, red pepper and mushrooms.

There’s also a new Benson Reuben sandwich, made with homemade sauce and pickled red cabbage.

Fresh salads include apple walnut, mandarin orange, garden, spinach or Caesar, iwith optional chicken or bacon.

Hearthrock Café hours are Mon.Fri. 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and Sat. 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Breakfast is served until 11 a.m. Benson Stone Company is located at 1100 11th St. in Rockford. Learn more at BensonStone. com/hearthrock. ❚

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Jan. 22

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Y A C

Prevent Vehicle Trouble with Maintenance I

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

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.

In 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 foreign and domestic vehicle, warranties

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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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To advertise call 815-316-2300

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