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Save Smarter • Live Better • Rockford Region/Freeport 95¢ • Nov. 12, 2014

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Right in Our Region

Cannova’s Christmas Dinner Show By Karla Nagy, associate editor

annova’s Italian Cuisine has been serving up authentic Italian dishes and pizza since 1921, when founder Anthony Cannova opened his restaurant. After son Frank returned from World War II, he took over. Today, Linda and Patrick Beckman, Frank’s daughter and son-in-law, carry on the tradition,

at 1101 W. Empire St. And each year since 1985, the pair has presented their special “Holiday Dinner Show,” now a holiday tradition in Freeport. Slated this year for Dec. 9-10 and 15-17, it includes a ﬁve-course meal, prepared by Linda, and Christmas songs and skits, performed by Patrick and some very talented friends. Continued on p. 20

• Get All the SAVINGS You Deserve from Local Businesses

A Local Expert’s Turkey Tips • Winterizing Your Home • Handling Your Picky Eater 5 Questions to Ask a Financial Adviser • Driving at Night • Top Recommended Health Screenings

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region .............................Cover & p. 20 Cannova’s Annual Holiday Dinner Show Your Home .................................................. .......... 11 Interior Repairs to Winterize Your Home Inspiration & Worship .......................................... 12 ‘A Stink in God’s Nostrils’ Your Kitchen ..........................................................15 Turkey Talk with Pete at 640 Meats

Your Auto .............................................................17 Tips for Driving at Night Your Health ............................................. .............. 25 Chances Are, Your Doctor is on Staff at RASC Your Health ............................................. .............. 26 FHN Recommends These Health Screenings Your Fun ................................................... ............. 27

Restaurant of the Week ...................................... 29 Tavern on Clark Dining Locally .......................................... ............. 29 Tips ........................................................... .............. 31 Handling a Picky Eater Your Money .............................................. .............. 33 5 Vital Questions for your Financial Adviser

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes Executive Editor Janine Pumilia

Managing Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Associate Editor/Special Projects Editor Karla Nagy Senior Staff Writer/Promotions Coordinator Paul Anthony Arco Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Ryan General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes General Manager/Northwest Business Magazine Dave Marino Account Executive Brian Hughes Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Website www.NWQSmartLiving.com Published by Hughes Media Corp. 728 N. Prospect St., Rockford, IL, 61107 (815) 316-2300, Fax: (815) 316-2301 lhughes@northwestquarterly.com Smart Living Weekly. Copyright 2014 by Hughes Media Corp., 728 N. Prospect St., Rockford, IL, 61107. 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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My Guilty Pleasure

t the risk of never being inducted into the Cool People Society, I confess to you my guilty pleasure: watching those Christmas movies that have been playing on cable channels since before Halloween. I even found myself laughing with a store cashier, the other day, about Christmas With The Kranks (2004), when I was buying Christmas lights. I admit that many of the made-for-TV movies have pretty corny themes, like “Engaged (to Wrong Man) lady meets True Love on the way home for Christmas.” (For some reason, Wrong Man is generally well-heeled, while True Love is scruffy with a heart of gold – but always cleans up nicely.) My must-watch Christmas “alternate universe” films include Frank Capra’s masterpiece It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) and its modern counterpart The Family Man (2000). A good made-for-TV version of this theme is Comfort & Joy (2003) about a single lady lawyer who wakes up to find she has two great kids and a (heart-of-gold and slightly scruffy) husband who runs a homeless shelter. It’s sweet. Really. Another favorite is A Season for Miracles (1999) about a jailbird mom who begs her nice sister to run off with her kids so they won’t go into state foster care. Nice sister’s jalopy breaks down in a town called Bethlehem. She’s broke, so she and the kids hole up (illegally) in a vacant Victorian. Kindly townspeople (especially a hunky cop) help the traumatized children to thrive. It takes a village, you know. Part of the appeal of Christmas movies is that they’re often set in quaint towns with close-knit communities. Isn't it nice to know that plenty of real life hometown charm and Christmas spirit exist right here in our region? You may not find it at the big-box store, though, so seriously consider holiday shopping at locally owned stores this year. Who knows, some scruffy-but-good-hearted store clerk just might make all your Christmas wishes come true – or at least share a good belly laugh with you. ❚ Janine Pumilia Executive Editor Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

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Y H  G

Winterize Your Home in the Fall

all is the perfect time to take care of little things that can make a big difference to you and your home. Roy Raymond, owner of All Property Services, Rockford, offers the following list of fall indoor tasks. Most are within the average person’s ability, but if you choose to hire a professional, you’ll save money, get the job done right – and avoid possible injury. • Furnace/Heat A furnace in good working order is vital during winter, so fall is a great time for maintenance. Change the filter, clean all debris and dust from the filter and motor areas, and test that it’s working properly. It’s best to hire a professional for this, so the unit can be inspected for cracks and carbon monoxide leaks. If you have radiated heat, drain the expansion tank, check the water pressure, bleed radiators and check for water leaks. Also check fireplaces and wood burning stoves each season prior to use. Hire a professional to inspect, clean and properly maintain your chimney and stovepipe, to help to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning or fires. This is also a good time to check carbon monoxide and smoke detectors and replace battieries. • Attic Insulation Clear soffits and roof vents of any insulation, to ensure proper airflow in the attic. Insulation settles over the years and loses its effectiveness. As a general rule, add more if the insulation is even with or below the ceiling joists. Walk on the ceiling

joists to avoid drywall damage or falling through the ceiling. If you’re in doubt about the amount or quality of your insulation, contact a professional. • Windows/Doors Gaps in caulk and weather stripping mean high heating bills. Shut or install storm windows and check for problems. Close a door or window on a strip of paper, and if it slides out easily, replace your weather stripping. Carefully move a lighted candle around the frame to check for drafts. Fill any gaps with caulk or new weather stripping.

For help with these and other home repair and improvement projects, contact Raymond at (815) 979-9016 or visit online at apshomepros.com. ❚ Source: All Property Services

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A ‘ Stink in God’s Nostrils’

hen you think about it, it’s remarkable that God allows us to choose whether or not to follow Him. If anyone has a right to force us to do something, surely it’s the Creator. But God doesn’t want allegiance that isn’t freely given. Jesus told his followers to “go tell the good news,” not to “go force people into joining my religion.” Tragically, governments and religions have been less respectful of individual conscience throughout history, leading to wars and executions, even here in America. From the early 1600s to mid 1700s, religious persecution and state-mandated, tax-supported religions were the norm. Louisiana required residents and their slaves to practice Catholocism; Virginia mandated Anglicanism; Puritan Massachusetts barely tolerated Protestant dissenters, much less the beliefs of American Indians, Africans, Jews or Quakers. This led Quaker Roger Williams to declare “Forced worship stinks in God’s nostrils,” as he established Rhode Island on the “new” principle of religious freedom. It was against this backdrop that Virgina Gov. Thomas Jefferson declared that no man is truly free as long as his religious beliefs are manipulated by his government. In the 1786 Viriginia Act for Establishing Religious Freedom, Jefferson wrote: “... Be it therefore enacted by the General Assembly, That no man shall be compelled to frequent or support any religious worship, place, or ministry whatsoever, nor shall be enforced, restrained, molested, or burdened in his body or goods, nor shall otherwise suffer on account of his religious opinions or belief; but that all men shall be free to profess, and by argument to maintain, their opinions in matters of religion, and that the same shall in nowise diminish, enlarge, or affect their civil capacities...” He later made this concept a cornerstone of the Declaration of Independence. Especially as we approach Thanksgiving, let’s appreciate the hard-won freedom of religion that we enjoy in America. And as Christians, let’s never take for granted the privilege God gives us to follow Him by choice. May we always extend the same courtesy to our neighbors. ❚ Written by Janine Pumilia 12

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Y Y K K

Pete at 640 Meats Talks Turkey B y K a r l a N a g y, a s s o c i a t e e d i t o r

ocal meat master Pete Lentz, butcher and owner of 640 Meats, 6410 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, has the answers to all of your turkey questions. • Fresh vs. Frozen: “Fresh turkeys are juicer and more tender,” says Lentz. “Frozen turkeys are injected with water and sodium, for preservation. When they thaw, they lose all of that moisture.” • Stuffed vs. Unstuffed: “I prefer to cook the stuffing outside of the bird,” says Lentz. “The turkey cooks faster unstuffed.” He fills the cavity with freshcut apples and salt and pepper. “The apples add moisture and a little apple flavor. I throw them away afterward. Some use carrots and celery or other vegetables.”

• Cooking Method: “I bake my bird,” says Lentz. “It’s a personal preference. I have customers who deep-fry theirs, but I’ve never done it. If you deep-fry, before the bird hits that hot oil, just make certain that if it was frozen, it’s completely thawed, and that you’ve patted it completely dry.” • Covered vs. Uncovered: “I cook my turkey uncovered, at a lower temperature, 325 degrees, rather than 350 or 375,” Lentz says. “I tuck in the wing tips or cover them in foil, to keep them from burning. I put some water in the bottom of the pan and baste every 30 minutes.” • Seasoning: Lentz uses just salt and pepper and then rubs butter under the skin, for extra flavor and moisture.

“Some folks will b r i n e a fresh turkey – that’s soaking it in a solution of salt and herbs for 24 hours before cooking,” says Lentz. “You could do it with a thawed bird, but it’s already salty because of that injected solution.” On the Sunday before Thanksgiving, Lentz will receive fresh turkeys from a farm in southern Wisconsin, in many weights. “They come to me processed and sealed in cryovac bags, so they’ll be good in your fridge for two weeks, if you don’t cook them on Thanksgiving,” he says. ❚ Get SLW Kitchen articles every week. Visit NWQSmartLiving.com and start your e-Edition today.

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Shedding Light on Driving at Night N

ew survey results reveal that drivers as young as 40 feel uncomfortable driving in nighttime conditions. The recent switch from daylight savings time means darkness falls earlier, increasing the amount of low-light driving time for all drivers. Here are some facts, tips and tricks to help you better navigate at night. Vision issues related to night driving can be organized into three categories: • Low-light Conditions: Affects contrast and the ability to gauge distance. • Glare: May cause a period of blind driving. • Reduced Reaction Time: Occurs when visibility is hampered. Concerns about driving at night and in low-light conditions are valid. According to the National Safety Council, traffic death rates are three times greater driving at night versus day. There are numerous ways you can proactively improve your safety while driving at night. The experts at EyePromise offer these suggestions.

Practice safe driving. • Make sure the windshield and headlights are clean. Companies such as Armor All and Rain-X offer cleaners specifically designed for auto glass. • Drive more slowly and leave more distance between cars. • Watch the white line on the road, to check your bearings. Avoid looking straight into oncoming headlights. • Use the night setting on your interior rearview mirror.

Schedule regular eye exams to monitor for vision problems. A professional can identify issues such as an astigmatism, which makes it harder for your eyes to adapt to darkness. Improve your eyes with nutrition. Research shows that nutritional supplements high in Vitamin A, dietary zeaxanthin (10 mg or above) and lutein protect and promote eye health. Trace amounts of

these nutrients are found in foods like leafy greens, eggs, corn and orange and yellow peppers. Another option is a natural supplement, like EyePromise vizual EDGE, with high levels of dietary zeaxanthin and lutein in a once-daily softgel. ❚ Source: Family Features

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on NPR with Garrison Keillor. Everybody is very talented, with impressive musical credentials.” Continued from Cover Each singer will perform individually or in pairs, as well as with the ensemble. “We started with three singers and a “Amy is a very popular performer in piano,” says Patrick, a classical pianist, the Madison area, and she’ll be who used to teach in the music doing ‘The 12 Drinks of Christdepartment at Highland Commumas,’ and by the time she finishes, nity College. “We now have eight her character is drunk, and it’s singers – what we call ‘the big very funny,” Patrick says. “Tim choir’ – a piano and a jazz trio.” Conners, the drama director at The show will include group, Freeport High School, plays Louie duet and solo vocal performances, Vermicelli, a character he’s develaccompanied by Patrick and the oped, who’s very full of himself, jazz ensemble, and a few origiand Louie always has a big skit.” nal skits and characters. Music In lieu of costumes, the perincludes traditional and popular formers wear tuxes and formal standards, silly fun songs and some dresses. classical, all having to do with The group, which is made Christmas. up of two baritones, two tenors, “We begin the show with a few standards by the whole group,” On Friday and Saturday evenings at Cannova’s, Pat Beckman two sopranos and two altos, persays Patrick. “In between courses, performs on the baby grand piano that was donated by a customer. forms arranged music for the full spectrum of voices. “The choir we do the funny songs and solos.” Performers include John Webb, Madison, where she’s a popular jazz produces such a beautiful sound,” Patrick Ashli Keith, Tim Conners, Allen Red- singer, and Tim Conners is the drama says. “We have a really nice mix of styles ford, Karen Gorsline, Rick Roderick, Joy director at Freeport High School. Jon – a gospel singer, jazz singers, a concert Hotchkiss, Tracy Bristow and Amy Welk. Watson plays in a Cajun band that’s been soprano, church choir members.” (Dustin Waller photo)

The house band is made up of Joe Steil on standup bass, John Hartman on guitar, Jon Watson on drums, and Patrick on piano. “John is the former head of fine arts at Highland, and Allen is the current head,” Patrick says. “Amy comes from

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R  O R Patrick begins planning the show in September. “I order about 15 songs each year, and we maybe use three,” he explains. “So we have quite a backlog of music. Some pieces we’re doing this year, we haven’t done since 2005. We try to mix things up and keep it fresh.” Over the years, however, the ensemble has developed some special songs and skits that the audience not only looks forward to but has come to expect. “Rick and John do a duet,” says Patrick. Rick sings ‘Mr. Tanner,’ a story song by Harry Chapin about a dry cleaner in a small town who dreams of being a singer. Behind that, John sings ‘O Holy Night’ in his deep baritone, and it’s really very moving. Well, we left it out one year, and people were very unhappy about that. So they perform it every year.” While a few of the performers have changed, the group has remained mostly constant over the 29 years of the Holiday Dinner Show. “John’s been in it every year, and Amy almost every year,” Patrick says. “The rest have been with the show for the past 12 years.”

For the holiday event, Cannova’s is transformed into a dinner theater venue, complete with sound mixers, amplifiers, speakers and lighting. The main dining room, which usually seats about 60, is reconfigured to accommodate as many as 75. The front glassed-in dining room is used as an orchestra pit and backstage area. “The restaurant is decked out in lots of wreaths and Christmas lights, with poinsettias under the The show’s ensemble is made up of local and regional piano and set out everywhere,” Pat- well-known performers. rick says. Expect great food along with a great kitchen can accommodate guests with show. Cannova’s has been named multi- special food restrictions or allergies. ple times by Pizza Today as a top 100 U.S. And Linda’s not the only cook in the pizza maker, and has been recommended family. Patrick’s creation, the Chicken by the Chicago Sun-Times in both its Tuscany Pizza, was one of four original Food Review and Pizza Review sections. pizzas worldwide chosen to compete for Dinner courses for the holiday event best original pizza at the 2005 Internainclude an appetizer, a salad, pasta, an tional Pizza Expo. entrée of chicken or pork and dessert. Reservations are required for Can“Linda creates great food, with extra nova’s Holiday Dinner Show. Cost is $80 touches,” Patrick says. “It’s not just an per person, paid on the night of the event. ordinary salad, for example. It’s a really To book your seat or table, call (815) 233special salad.” With some notice, the 0032. ❚ The Only Full Time ABA Certified Group of Interventional Pain Management Physicians in the Rockford area

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We’ re here , fo r yo u.

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

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

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

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

as high or higher as

It is our goal to offer our communities the best possible healthcare services we can provide, and recognition such as this confirms our commitment to your confidence in our processes and capabilities. Whether you need surgery, cancer treatment or other specialty care close to home, a hand in welcoming a new baby into your life, help in handling a chronic health condition, or emergency care,

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

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

* Within a 50-mile radius of Freeport

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Chances Are, Your Doctor is on Staff at RASC By Craig Schmidt

ockford Ambulatory Surgery Center (RASC) opened its doors 20 years ago. Since then, more than 90,000 medical procedures have taken place in the modern facility at 1016 Featherstone Road. RASC is a high-quality, low-cost provider, which translates into satisfied patients. “Satisfied patients’ word of mouth continues to be our best marketing tool,” says Dr. Steve Gunderson, CEO and administrator. “We offer the convenience of a smaller facility that has innetwork contractual and negotiated agreements with insurance companies. This reduces patients’ out-of-pocket costs.” More than 200 Rockford-area physicians treat patients at RASC. To patients, the atmosphere is warm and friendly. For physicians, RASC maintains a structured, well-organized operating environment that emphasizes efficiency and safety. Because the surgery center is independent, these physicians aren’t employed by the facility. However, RASC enjoys excellent working relationships with SwedishAmerican Hospital, Rockford Memorial Hospital and OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, as well as dozens of the area’s top surgeons. “We have a great, mature group of surgeons who have been active in the local medical community for years,” Gunderson notes. “They work closely with the anesthesiologists, nurses and technicians on behalf of patients.”

Surgeries not requiring an overnight hospital stay can be performed in an ambulatory surgery center or a hospital’s daysurgery unit. The most common procedures performed at RASC involve cataracts, hernias, foot surgeries, tonsillectomies, plastic surgeries and ear tube implants. Quality at RASC is exceptional, because the physicians control the medical decisions and the surgical staff is proficient in the performance of high-volume surgical procedures. “Patients have a real choice of where to have outpatient surgery,” says Gunderson. “Smart consumers who want to minimize out-of-pocket expenses will seek out the low-cost, quality care provider for their outpatient surgical procedures. They simply have to let their surgeons know their choice is RASC.” ❚ Source: Rockford Ambulatory Surgery Center

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Top FHN Recommended Health Screenings T

he healthcare providers at FHN recommend the following health screenings. Check with your insurance company to see which are covered by your policy. Cardiovascular Calcium Screening: Utilizes special electron beam-computed tomographic techniques to search for signs of plaque in coronary arteries and identify issues that could lead to a heart attack. Cervical Cancer Screening: Typically part of a routine gynecological exam and should include a pelvic exam, Pap test and an HPV (human papillomavirus) screen. Colorectal Cancer Screening: Differs according age. Under 50 years old, likely a fecal occult blood test to identify blood in the stool. If over 50, probably a colonoscopy, a more involved procedure that requires a special short-term diet before the test. Lipid Measurement: Group of tests that check total cholesterol; HDL (aka the “good” cholesterol); LDL (aka “bad” cholesterol); and triglycerides. Requires wateronly fast 9-12 hours prior to blood draw.

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Mammogram: A low-dose x-ray exam of the breasts to look for abnormalities in breast tissue that can’t be felt during a physical breast exam. Each breast is compressed between a compression paddle and a detector plate and two images are taken. Takes about 20 minutes. Prostate Cancer Screening: Blood test to measure prostate specific antigen (PSA), a protein produced by the prostate. An elevated PSA concentration does not necessarily mean cancer. Other causes include benign prostatic; prostate infection; or trauma, such as from bicycle riding. Sleep Apnea Testing: A common sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts; this condition increases risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, obesity and diabetes. Symptoms include loud snoring and fatigue after a full night’s sleep. May require an overnight observation in a sleep clinic. Depression Screening: Depression is a medical condition often caused by

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hormonal imbalances or other physical conditions that can be effectively treated. Similar to a survey; your provider may go through it with you in person or ask you to fill it out at home and bring it in to his or her office to review your results with you. Skin Cancer Screening: The most common form of cancer, but, when found early, one of the most easily cured. Your provider will visually examine your skin during a skin cancer screen. If there are any concerns, further tests may be scheduled. ❚ Source: FHN

Y F

Behind the Brew: Beer Nov. 13, 6:30-8 p.m. Sample various beers and learn about the brewing process. Rockford Brewing Co., ages 21 & older. Info: Rockfordbrewingco. com. Event host and location: Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St., Rockford, burpee.org. Year in Review Nov. 13, 7 p.m. Hear about projects and renovations completed, as well as accomplishments of 2014. $5/ members free. Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 316-3307, andersongardens.org.

Russian pianist Vassily Primakov and American cellist Benjamin Capps perform in Freeport on Nov. 15.

In This Moment Nov. 14, 7 p.m. An American alternative metal band with special guests 12 Foot Ninja, Starset and 3 Pill Morning. Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 9650049, rockfordsymphony.com. Chastity Brown Nov. 14, 7 p.m. This singer/songwriter has roots in indie, R&B, soul, rock, blues and country, but a style that’s all her own. $15. Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road, Rockford, (815) 335-2915, seversondells.org. Primakov & Capps Nov. 15, 3 p.m. “Soul of Piano & Cello” performed by world-class musicians Vassily Primakov, a Russian pianist, and Benjamin Capps, an American cellist. Freeport Community Concert Association, Masonic Temple, 305 W. Stephenson St., Freeport, (815) 232-4214. Red Tail Ring Nov. 15, 7:30 p.m. This duo performs traditional and original folk music on fiddle, banjo, mandolin, jaw harp. Charlotte’s Web Concert Series. Emerson House, 420 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org. Rockford Arts & Crafts Holiday Spectacular Nov. 15-16, Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun. to 5 p.m. More than 100 crafters and artisans with a variety of handcrafted items for holiday decorating and gift-giving. Free parking; on-site restaurant. Indoor Sports Center, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, (815) 997-1744. Blue Man Group Nov. 15-16, Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 3 p.m. Their wildly popular theatrical shows combine comedy,

music and technology to create a unique form of entertainment. CPAC, Rockford, coronadopac.org. Mistletoe Walk Nov. 18, noon-4 p.m. Carolers, Santa, carriage rides, refreshments, stores decorated for the holidays; raffle; silent auction. Benefits Freeport Downtown Development Foundation, the Salvation Army and the Freeport Area Church Cooperative. Downtown Freeport. (815) 232-9000, (815) 233-0013. Holiday Tree Lighting & Open House Nov. 21-22, Fri. tree lighting 5-7 p.m.; Sat. open house noon-4 p.m. Kick off the holiday shopping season; live entertainment; activities; more. Edgebrook, 1639 N. Alpine Road, Rockford, (815) 226-0212, edgebrookshops.com. Ladies’ Day Out Nov. 22, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Santa 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Local and home-based businesses selling jewelry, clothing, food, kitchen items, more. Gentlemen welcome too; free gift wrapping; free admission. Food drive, raffles. Fundraiser for the Lena Area Church Cooperative. Elementary School, 401 Fremont St., Lena, Ill., (815) 275-3997. 11th Regional Juried Exhibition Nov. 22, Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. noon-5 p.m. Opening reception Nov. 21, 5-8 p.m. Art from up to 160 emerging and established regional artists, in a variety of media. Freeport Art Museum (FAM), 121 N. Harlem Ave., Freeport, (815) 235-9755, freeportartmuseum.org. FHN Festival of Trees Holiday Tree Lighting Nov. 23, 5 p.m. Refreshments, holiday caroling, and Freeport Mayor Gitz “flips the switch” on Freeport’s holiday tree. 1045 W. Stephenson St., Freeport, (877) 600-0346 x901. ❚

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5 NEW reasons to celebrate! Try our new Fresh-tini collection! ™

Five fresh fruit bouquets arranged in a stylish martini container. Call, visit or order at edible.com

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Nov. 12

WDL

Restaurant of the Week

Tavern on Clark By Peggy Werner

am Sabani and Dan Isai, brothers-in-law, each grew up in the restaurant business. Together, they decided to create an eatery and bar with top-quality food and a great atmosphere, where business partners, couples, family and friends could gather for all occasions. The result is Tavern on Clark, 755 Clark St., in the former Damon’s Restaurant building, which has been transformed inside and out. “We didn’t cut corners on the building renovation,” says Isai. Adds Sabani: “We were very intentional in creating Sam Sabani and Dan Isai have opened a classic American tavern with a familiar, yet what we describe as the classic American tavern, with fresh and creative, menu. a fresh, new, clean look, where there’s something for everyone.” A full-service bar offers signature cocktails, an extensive wine beer sauce. And save room for desserts such as carrot cake, chocolist, about 40 bottled beers and eight domestic and imported drafts. late cake, New York cheesecake and more. Menu offerings include aged center-cut steaks and chops, fresh salThe space is open and inviting, with plenty of natural light ads, flatbreads, appetizers, pasta, and ribs. Lunch and dinner speto showcase the quality décor of dark woods, stone walls, earthcials include the Friday fish fry and Saturday prime rib, as well as toned granite countertops and porcelain tile. Large booths seat six regular Ahi tuna, mahi mahi and surf-and-turf deals. “We spent a lot of time researching what people wanted,” says comfortably, and a private dining room, with a wall-mounted flat screen TV and a fireplace, seats 50 and can accommodate busiIsai. “We offer quality you can’t find elsewhere.” All steaks and hamburgers are made from USDA-certified ness meetings and presentations. “Rockford needs a place like this, where people can come and Black Angus beef and all menu items are made-to-order from fresh just hang out or get business done,” says Isai. produce, locally grown when possible. Tavern on Clark is open daily at 11 a.m. Dinner is served until Tavern on Clark’s signature dishes include 10-ounce certified Black Angus beef hamburgers and craft ale beer-battered side- 10 p.m. on weekdays, 11 p.m. on weekends. The bar is open later. ❚ winder sea-salted French fries, served with a Wisconsin Cheddar

Smart Dining Weekly ™

Key: D Dinner, L Lunch, Br Brunch, Bk Breakfast Price: $ under $12.50, $$ $12.50-$25, $$$ $25+ 9 East Coffee  Specialty coffees, pastries, breakfast & lunch items. 9 E. Stephenson St., Freeport. (815) 233-7300. $ Amici Italian Grill  Upscale-Casual/Italian. Fresh, authentic Italian cuisine. 5506 Clayton Circle, Roscoe, (815) 623-7171. LD Sun-Th 11am-9pm, F-Sat 11am-10-pm. $-$$. Bravo Pizza  Casual, full bar. 376 Prairie Hill Rd., South Beloit, (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $. Butterfly Club  Upscale-Casual/Fine Dining. 5246 E. Co. Road X, Beloit, Wis., (608) 362-8577. LD T-Th 5-9:30pm, F 4:3010pm, Sat 5-10pm, Sun noon-8pm. Live bands. $$. Cafe Fromage  Artisan sandwiches, soups, cheese plates, baked goods. 431 E. Grand, Beloit, Wis., (608) 207-3094. $. Cannova’s Pizzeria & Fine Italian Cuisine  Casual. Pizza, pasta, steak, seafood. 1101 W. Empire St., Freeport, (815) 2330032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. $-$$.

Ciao Bella Ristorante  Upscale-Casual/Italian-American. Extensive wine list; daily specials. 6500 E. Riverside, Loves Park, (815) 654-9900. LD M-F 11am-9pm, Sat 5-9pm. $$.

Maciano’s Pizza & Pastaria  Casual. Italian favorites, beer & wine. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, Ill., (815) 963-7869. LD Sun-Th 11am-midnight, F-Sat to 11pm. $$.

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

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

Dos Reales  Casual/Authentic Mexican. 5855 E. State St., Rockford. LD M-Th, Sun 11am-10pm; F-Sat to 10:30pm. $. Franchesco’s Ristorante  Upscale/Italian-American. Sommelier, entertainment, Sinatra Lounge, Benny’s Bar. 7128 Spring Creek, Rockford, (815) 229-0800. LD M-Th 11am-10pm, F 11pm, SatSun 4pm. $$. Giordano’s  Casual/Italian. Pasta, deep-dish pizza. 333 Executive Pkwy., Rockford, (815) 398-5700. LD 11 a.m.-midnight $. JMK Nippon Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar  UpscaleCasual. Food cooked tableside. 2551 N. Perryville, Rockford, (815) 877-0505. L T-F 11:30am-2pm, Sat 2:30pm; D M-Th 5-9:30pm, F-Sat 10:30pm, Sun 4:30-9:30pm. $$. Leombruni’s Italian Village Pizza & Restaurant  Casual. 110 W. 2nd St., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-2696. D T-Th 5-9pm, F-Sat to 11pm, Sun to 10pm. $. Main Street Bistro  Fine dining, full bar, live music Th&Sat. 109 S. Galena Ave., Freeport, (815) 232-2322. M-Sat 2pmmidnight. $$

Napoli Pizzeria III & Top Dollar Slots  Pizza, pasta, sandwiches, dinners. 6560 N. Alpine, Loves Park, (815) 877-9888. LD Sun-Th11am-10:30pm, F-Sat to 11:30pm. $-$$. Olympic Tavern  Casual/American. 2327 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 962-8758. LD M-Sat 11am-2am. $-$$. Prairie Street Brewhouse  Upscale-Casual/American. Riverside dining, handcrafted beers, banquet rooms, marina. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$. Tavern on Clark  Casual/American. Tavern-style fare, big burgers, steaks, fries, flatbreads. Full bar; banquets. 755 Clark Ave., Rockford, (815) 708-7088. LD daily 10am. $-$$. This Is It Eatery  Ribs, burgers, pasta, salads. 16 N. Chicago, Freeport, (815) 616-5449. LD T-Th 11am-8pm, F-Sat to 10pm. $. Vito’s Ristorante  Casual/Italian. Sauces, soups, mama’s meatballs, desserts fresh daily. 1620 N. Bell School Rd., Rockford, (815) 312-5080. LD T-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $$. ❚

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Smart Living Weekly

Nov. 12

T  I

Tips to Handle Picky Eaters T

he experts at Birds Eye frozen vegetables offer these strategies to get kids excited about adding vegetables to their favorite dinner meals. 1. Spark interest by getting kids involved. It’s easy to get kids more engaged in mealtime by including them while you’re preparing and cooking family meals. Teach kids how to measure out herbs and spices, or have them pick out their favorite Birds Eye vegetable to serve with dinner. 2. Embrace variety to keep dinnertime boredom from creeping in. Just like adults, kids can become bored with the same old rotation of veggies every week. Branch out from the basics by tapping into the 40 vegetable varieties Birds Eye offers year round in the freezer section. With affordable prices and a broad selection, it’s easy to spark kids’ interest by encouraging them to look forward to a new vegetable to try each evening. 3. Introduce new foods slowly, pairing them on the table with familiar foods. It can be difficult to get little ones to try new foods – especially fruits and veggies – so introduce foods slowly. Add in new flavors alongside their favorite dishes. Try serving your family’s favorite dips, salsa or hummus with veggies, to help picky eaters to be more willing to expand their taste preferences. Establishing a healthy diet at a young age will encourage well-rounded eating habits for a lifetime. There’s no better time than dinnertime to start modeling smart behaviors for them to follow. ❚ Source: Family Features

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Nov. 12

Y M

5 Vital Questions to ask your Financial Professional M

eetings with your financial professional provide an important opportunity for you to ensure that your strategy is on track and your family and finances are protected. You can get the most out of your meeting by asking the right questions. The experts at Thrivent Financial suggest the following.

1. What are your company’s strengths? Insurance is only as strong as the ability of your financial institution to pay out claims when you need to claim a contract. Make sure to investigate the strength and stability of any company you’re working with to ensure it is financially sound enough to make good on its obligations. 2. Is my coverage adequate? Make sure you have proper financial protection against death, disability or injury. Ask about cost concerns and protection options to ensure your family’s financial well-being in such an event. If you’ve experienced major life changes like the birth or adoption of a child, purchased a house or gotten married, chances are your protection will need updating. 3. What are some creative ways to help to maximize benefits? Your adviser can help you to organize your financial strategy to factor in things like taxes and market volatility, and will know what changes are on the horizon that could affect you.

A financial professional can suggest unique uses of primary products like life insurance – such as supplementing a retirement income stream. These are applications many don’t know about, but that can offer advantages to your financial strategy.

4. Do my financial strategies align with my values? If you have charitable causes you want to support, or volunteer trips you want to take, make sure your financial professional knows about them. He or she can help you to develop ways to bring your generosity to life. 5. What should I do differently in the next year? Your financial professional can help you to stay ahead of the curve, when it comes to your future strategy needs. For instance, taking advantage of market volatility and ensuring your future protection needs, are just two of the many variables you may consider. ❚

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Source: BrandPoint

Nov. 12

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Issue 1