Smart Living Weekly - December 2, 2015 by Northwest Quarterly Mag

n s hi o lt s ca a Lo Se

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n iving g Sm mart a r t L ivi ivin ng Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit 95¢ • Dec. 2, 2015

™

Right in Our Region

Rockford Becomes ‘Merry & Bright’ By Lindsey Gapen, assistant editor

he Rockford Region is celebrating the holiday season in a big way with sites, attractions, eateries and other organizations joining together to put on “Merry & Bright” festivities from Nov. 28 to Jan. 31.“The holidays mark a special time of

year when families and friends gather to establish traditions by attending community events and participating in local activities,” says Josh Albrecht, Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Director of Marketing. Continued on p. 22

Live a Better Quality of Life Reading & Using Smart Living Weekly Proudly Serving the Needs of 326,000 Neighbors - For Your Home, Health & Fun! Bird Feeding Basics • Dazzling, Easy Holiday Eats • 20th Annual ‘Hometown Holidays’ Improved Cataract Surgery • State-of-the-art Varicose Vein Treatments • Make Your Money Stretch

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Smart Living Weekly

Dec. 2

Smart Living

Holiday Shopping Guide

In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 22 Merry & Bright! Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Bird-Feeding Basics Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Who Was King Saul? Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Easy, Dazzling Holiday Eats Your Health ............................................. .......... 24 New Cataract Treatment at Rockford Ambulatory Your Health ............................................. .......... 25 Breakthroughs in Varicose Vein Treatment Your Fun ................................................... ......... 27

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 29 Dos Reales Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 29

Tips ........................................................... ......... 31 Vacation Planning Tips Your Money .............................................. ......... 33 Make Your Money Stretch

Smart L iving Weekly â&#x201E;˘

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Janine Pumilia Deputy Editor Sarah Soenke Assistant Editor Lindsey Gapen Senior Staff Writer/Promotions Coordinator Paul Anthony Arco Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Ryan Contributing Writers Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes General Manager/Northwest Business Magazine Dave Marino Account Executives Brian Hughes Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Website www.NWQSmartLiving.com Published by Hughes Media Corp. 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 Smart Living Weekly. Copyright 2015 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.

Smart Living Weekly

Dec. 2

Enjoy the Journey!

or me, the Christmas season starts when I drive down North Second Street in Loves Park and see the Woodward people decorating their front lawn with the same vignettes that so captivated my imagination as a child. I used to beg my parents to turn into the U-shaped driveway, no matter how many times I’d already seen the tableau that year. My folks good-naturedly complied, no doubt thrilled to make me so happy at no charge. I did the same with my children, and I’m not sure which of us was more excited about the ritual. Do you remember being a little child, back when the holidays meant only good times and breathless anticipation? I also recall reaching the age when a new holiday emotion took hold: Stress. At some point it became me who was desperately searching for the Legos Hogwarts Castle, overspending and worrying about whether my kids would enjoy the season enough. Looking back, I’m certain that a less frenzied mother would have been a better gift to them than the picture-perfect Christmas day I felt driven to produce. Over time, I’ve learned to work, shop and live smarter. I don’t have to set a table like Martha Stewart. It’s OK to dust less and sleep more. How ironic that we celebrate the Prince of Peace by frantically exhausting ourselves! In our December issues of Smart Living Weekly, we offer tips on making easy treats, coping with stress, and taking time to enjoy events we share as a region. People in the greater Rockford community have long understood the joy of finding warm, overlapping circles of friendship. This yearning to be together has never been more obvious to me than in recent years, as we turn out in droves for community events like Stroll on State and season-long Merry & Bright festivities. What fun to witness our present downtown renaissance play out in every season. As your season progresses, we urge you to enjoy the moments along the way. Our cover story will fill you in on what’s new. Enjoy! ❚ Janine Pumilia Executive Editor Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Dec. 2

Experience Downtown Rockford

Smart Living Weekly

Dec. 2

Y H  G

Start with a General-Purpose Bird Feeder By Peggy Werner

lthough they were born to be outdoors, birds have a much easier time surviving the winter months if they are well-fed, warm and protected. Phil Rezin, owner of Wild Birds Unlimited, 631 S. Perryville Road, Rockford, keeps a blackboard behind his checkout counter to list all of the species of feathered friends his customers have seen in our region at any given time of year. Whether you’re a beginner or an old pro at taking care of backyard birds, you can find everything you need in his store, including bird advice. “Some species will pass through and be around for just a few weeks, while others choose to make the area their home, regardless of the weather,” Rezin says. Either way, they all need food, water to drink and bathe in, and shelter. If you’re just starting out, the best investment is a general-purpose bird

(David C. Olson photo)

Red-Bellied Woodpecker

feeder that will attract a wide variety of birds. After that, you can choose specialized feeders to attract certain species to your backyard. Not all feeders are the same. Different species are attracted to different designs that meet their needs. Sparrows, doves and some towhee species prefer to feed on large, flat surfaces and won’t go to a hanging feeder. Hopper feeders are “house-shaped” with walls and a roof, and protect the seed

from bad weather. Larger hoppers attract larger birds and smaller designs attract smaller birds. Tube feeders with short perches attract small birds like finches, which prefer to eat thistle seed. Grackles and jays will use a tube feeder if perches and feeding holes are larger. Suet cages hold high-calorie mixtures of birdseed and fats like peanut butter, to help birds stay warm in the winter. They often attract various woodpeckers. Nectar feeders attract hummingbirds. Inventing the perfect birdfeeder was the goal of CEO Jim Carpenter, who founded Wild Birds Unlimited in 1981. He wanted a classic feeder to look good, but also to allow birdwatchers to easily see birds as they feed. Since then, every birdfeeder available at Wild Birds Unlimited has met certain criteria, such as easy mounting or hanging, and good visibility for the viewer. The feeders also must be durable, weather resistant and easy to clean and fill. Satisfaction is guaranteed. ❚

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Dec. 2

I  W

Who Was Saul? I

Scriptures: I Samuel 14 and 15 n the 10th century BC, Israel was comprised of 12 loosely connected tribes. A time came when they lobbied to have their own king. “You don’t really want a king. A king will grow too powerful and abuse you,” God tried to warn them. But they were tired of the constant threat of war and insisted on becoming a federated state with a king’s standing army. So, God directed his prophet Samuel to anoint a man named Saul as Israel’s first king. Saul was tall, brave and charismatic; he respected God and showed great promise. But it wasn’t long before he began ruling according to his own ideas, not God’s, and lost the spirit God had put upon him. A young shepherd and musician named David sometimes eased Saul’s sadness through music. Later, David killed a giant named Goliath, when Israel battled the Philistines, and so became very popular among the people. Saul grew jealous of David and plotted to murder him, but God loved David and protected him. Saul reigned only about 20 years before falling on his sword during a lost battle with the Philistines, a battle that also claimed the lives of all his sons. How did Saul, a man with so much promise, become an example of how not to lead? He forgot that the One who gives power can also take it away. Saul’s love for God gave way to selfish little desires and dishonest acts that snowballed. Saul misused his power and failed to care for God’s people, which gave Satan room to work. As Israel’s first king, Saul could have set the standard for greatness. Instead, the unrepentant king squandered his chance. To say the least, Israel’s first foray into nationhood could have gone much better. And its second king was a deeply flawed man, too. But this second king had one remarkable quality: he loved God with all his heart and desperately sought His forgiveness after screwing up. God called him “a man after my own heart,” perhaps the greatest compliment ever given to a mortal. That man was King David. ❚ This is the 11th in a series about important figures of the Bible. Sign up for your free digital edition of Smart Living Weekly at NWQSmart Living.com. 12

Smart Living Weekly

Dec. 2

for the Holidays www.edgebrookshops.com 1639 N. Alpine Rd • Rockford, Illinois • 815.226-0212

Smart Living Weekly

Dec. 2

Y K

Dazzle Guests with Easy Holiday Eats C

reating a delicious holiday spread that your guests will love doesn’t have to be hard. Keep it simple and serve a table of tasty appetizers rather than a full meal, especially during a season when guests likely have several stops to make.

Making delectable appetizers doesn’t mean you have to spend hours in the kitchen. Timesavers, such as the easy-toserve feta cheese crumbles used in this Holiday Bruschetta, are a quick way to enhance any salad, cheese plate or side dish. Then round out your menu with a diverse offering of other crowd-pleasing, quick-prep items, from deviled eggs and pinwheels, to shrimp cocktail and bagel pizzas.

Holiday Bruschetta • 1 baguette • olive oil • 1 tomato, diced

• 1/2 cup red pepper, diced •1 container (6 ounces) Simply Artisan Reserve Feta Cheese •1 tsp. Litehouse Instantly Fresh Basil •1/2 cup Litehouse Organic Balsamic Vinaigrette

Directions: Cut baguette into 1/2-inch slices. Brush with olive oil and grill lightly. In bowl, combine tomato, red pepper, feta cheese, basil and just enough vinaigrette to lightly coat. Place heaping spoon of mixture on each baguette slice and drizzle with more vinaigrette, to taste.

Blue Cheese, Pomegranate and Quinoa Caviar • 2 ounces Simply Artisan Reserve Blue Cheese (Crumbles or Center Cut) • 1/3 cup pre-cooked red quinoa • 1/3 cup pomegranate arils (seeds), 1 TB. reserved • 1 tsp. Litehouse Organic Balsamic Vinaigrette • 1 tsp. Litehouse Instantly Fresh Thyme

• 1 TB. chopped walnuts • assorted crackers

Directions: In small bowl, add blue cheese crumbles, quinoa, pomegranate arils and vinaigrette. Stir gently to combine. Transfer to 6-ounce ramekin dish and use back of spoon to tightly pack down. Place serving plate on top of ramekin and quickly invert. Carefully lift ramekin, leaving mixture in mold form. Sprinkle top with thyme, walnuts and reserved pomegranate arils. Serve with crackers. ❚ Source: Family Features

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Dec. 2

Gustafson’s West Serving Our Hometown Since 1928

Super Holiday Sale! 36 Mon ths

0% Inter e s t 808 W. Riverside Boulevard • 815-636-8608

Beige Sofa: Was-$1229 Now-$999

Black & White Two Tone Sofa: Was-$789 Now-$649

Queen Bed, Dresser & Mirror: Was-$2009 Now-$1679

Brown Two Toned Sofa with Paisley and Plaid Pillows: Was-$1189 Now-$899

Queen Bed, Dresser & Mirror: Was-$1399 Now-$1019

Black Queen Bed, Dresser & Mirror:: Was-$1279 Now-$939

You’ll See Hundreds of Beautiful Bedroom, Dining Room, LivingRoom, Mattress Sets Sale Priced at Gustafson’s West! 16

Visit Both of Our Locations Today!

Smart Living Weekly

Dec. 2

Gustafson’s East

W NE

Now Open!

Furniture & Mattress

6651 East State Street • 815-636-8608

Brown Leather Sofa with Nailhead Trim: Was-$2500 Now-$2175

Table with 6 black Windsor Style Chairs: Was-$3729 Now-$3259

Beige Colored Three-piece Sectional: Was-$1549 Now-$1289

Brown Counter Height Table & 8 Chairs: Was-$1839 Now-$1339

Table with 8 Red & Gray Chairs: Was-$2449 Now-$2099

Brown Leather Half Moon Sectional: Was-$8069 Now-$6999

At Gustafson’s East You’ll Find Our Outstanding Line of Flexsteel Furniture, and Much More, All Priced Incredibly Low for Our Big Sale!

36 Months 0% Interest* at Both Locations Tell them you saw it in ...

Smart Living Weekly

*To Qualified Buyers on financed balance over $2,000 with 10% Down. Tax & delivery not financeable.

Dec. 2

Open 24 hours on the web

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s h t n o 36 M

t s Holiday e r e t n I % 0 SALE *

Prices valid thru

Wednesday December 9, 2015

Mon & Fri 10am-8pm | Tues-Thur 10am-7pm | Sat 10am-6pm | Sun 12-5pm

IFD BOOKCASES

40"

399

Albany Chocolate Sofa and Loveseat

55"

449

899

70"

499

IFD Console

Ashley Sofa and Loveseat

999

699

Coaster Dining Table with 4 chairs

Ashley Merlot Headboard

FREE BOXSPRING SALE

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

129

199 FREE 298 Buy a Queen for

THERE’S NO CREDIT CHECK YOU PAY AS YOU GO PAY IN PERSON, BY PHONE OR ONLINE

169

Buy a King for

receive a

FREE boxspring receive

boxsprings

GUSTAFSON FURNITURE • 808 W. Riverside, Rockford, IL • 815.636.8608 • www.gustafsonfurniture.com 18

Smart Living Weekly Dec. 2 OPENING SOON in an additional location: 6651 East State Street, Rockford, IL 61108

Open 24 hours on the web

Home

Find us on Facebook

for the

Holiday

SALE

Mon & Fri 10am-8pm | Tues-Thur 10am-7pm Sat 10am-6pm | Sun 12-5pm Prices valid thru

Wednesday December 9, 2015

699each

Ashley Reclining Sofa or Loveseat. Available in 3 colors. POWER BEDS

TWINS STARTING AT

899

ULTRA COMFORT

LIFT CHAIR

588

GUSTAFSON'S FURNITURE & MATTRESS I

UPHOLSTERY:

UPHOLSTERY SETS:

BEST: PWR LIFT 1AW21-20029 WAS 1049 NOW 575 ULTRA COMFORT PWR LIFT C HAIR/RECL PL340 WAS 989 NOW 599

ENGLAND STORAGE OTTOMAN 4530 WAS 659 NOW 299 ENGLAND OTTOMAN 5637 WAS 489 NOW 199 NATUZZI SOFA B61900920 WAS 2765 NOW 1799 HGTV 2544-62, 2570-55 SOFA AND OTTOMAN WAS 2439 NOW 1499 ENGLAND LOVESEAT 6206AL WAS 1919 NOW 750 HGTV 2542-52 STUDIO SOFA WAS 1369 NOW 550 HGTV 2560-02 GEMSTONE ACCENT CHAIR WAS 1169 NOW 675 KINCAID CHAIR 167-84 WAS 959 NOW 350 BASSETT CHAIR 3977-12FC WAS 799 NOW 399 BASSETT CHAIR 3999-12FC WAS 899 NOW 499 KINCAID CHAIR 625-84 WAS 1629 NOW 899 ENGLAND CHAISE 1L00-80 WAS 939 NOW 499

UPHOLSTERY SETS:

BROYHILL 4231 SECTIONAL WAS 2029 NOW 1699 ASHLEY CHAIR 6400221 WAS 479 NOW 250 ENGLAND SECTIONAL 1W00 WAS 2180 NOW 1299 BEST WINGBACK CHAIR 0660DC-1 WAS 599 NOW 375 ASHLEY SECTIONAL 7070 WAS 1400 NOW 725 ENGLAND SOFA/LOVESEAT 6205AL,6206AL WAS 3200 NOW 2400 ASHLEY RECLINING SECTIONAL 1080 WAS 3250 NOW 2400 ASHLEY OTTOMAN 8670208 WAS 329 NOW 199 Photos for illustration only. Not responsiENGLAND OTTOMAN 2407R ble for typographical errors. We reserve the WAS 459 NOW 199 right not to honor any incorrect pricing.

BASSETT CHAIR 1019-02-LINEN WAS 929 NOW 525

WOOD PRODUCTS:

BASSETT COCKTAIL TABLE 6767-0613 WAS 699 NOW 299 ASHLEY T600-13 ENDTABLES(PAIR) WAS 750 NOW 315 BASSETT DRESSER/MIRROR 2767-0242/0237 WAS 1869 NOW 750 ASHLEY T720 COCKTAIL TABLE W/1 END TABLE NOW 399 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T165-13 WAS 299 NOW 199 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T231-13 WAS 299 NOW 199 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T269-13 WAS 299 NOW 199 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T140-13 WAS 319 NOW 199 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T142-13 WAS 305 NOW 199 BROYHILL SOFA TABLE 4812-009 WAS 549 NOW 299

ENGLAND 3PK TABLES H279221/201 WAS 1369 NOW 799 ASHLEY CHEST B429-46 WAS 679 NOW 399 ASHLEY END TABLE T845-3 WAS 429 NOW 175 ASHLEY YOUTH GIRLS NIGHTSTAND WAS 199 NOW 75 ASHLEY NIGHTSTAND B697-92 WAS 499 NOW 195 ASHLEY NIGHTSTAND B246-92 WAS 589 NOW 175 BROYHILL END TABLE 4986-0000 WAS 409 NOW 95 BROYHILL ENDTABLE 4310-002 WAS 369 NOW 125 ASHLEY SOFA TABLE T697-4 WAS 649 NOW 350 ASHLEY DRESSER B562-31 WAS 569 NOW 299 PRIMO FUTON FRAME 2814 WAS 620 NOW 250 FASHION TWIN PLATFORM FRAME B51093 WAS 319 NOW 195 BROYHILL QUEEN STORAGE BED 4444-450 WAS 1500 NOW 599

GUSTAFSON FURNITURE • 808 W. Riverside, Rockford, IL • 815.636.8608 • www.gustafsonfurniture.com Smart Living Weekly 2 19 OPENING SOON in an additional location: 6651 East State Street, Rockford,Dec. IL 61108

Open 24 hours on the web

We're So So Thankful Thankful to to Be Be Your Your We're Home

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s h t * n o M 36 est

r e t n I 0%

Prices valid thru

for the

Holiday

SALE

Prices valid through 12/2/15

Prices valid through 12/2/15 Only at Gustafson’s East!

Wednesday December 9, 2015

Mon & Fri 10am-8pm | Tues-Thur 10am-7pm | Sat 10am-6pm | Sun 12-5pm

IFD BOOKCASES

40"

399

55"

449

Albany Sectional Albany Sectional Also available in Chocolate and Beige Also available in Chocolate and Beige

70"

Now Now

499

1099 1099

IFD Console

Lane Hi-Leg Recliners: Homestretch Reclining Sofa Homestretch Reclining Sofa “Chloe” starting at $549. and Loveseat and Loveseat

Coaster table and Coaster table 4 banana leafand chairs 4 banana leaf chairs

899

Now Now

1589 1589

169

2099 2099

“Fritz” starting at $749 Now

Now

CLEARANCE PRICED! PRICED! CLEARANCE

You’ve Got to See Our Beautiful New Line of Flexsteel Furniture, Perfect forYour Home.

Albany Chocolate Sofa and Loveseat

999

Coaster Dining Table with 4 chairs

Lane “Brandon” Reclining Sofa w/Chaise Starting at $2499

129 Ashley Sofa Sofa 249 Ashley Last One! One! 1499 1499 and Loveseat 249 Last and Buy Loveseat receive a a Queen for

Ashley Sofa and Loveseat

Coaster White Bunk Bed. Coaster White Bunk Bed. Limited quantity in stock.

Limited quantity in stock. Available to order in Black, Red or Blue Available to order in Black, Red or Blue

699

Ashley Merlot Headboard

199 199 FREE 298 FREE 298 Buy a Queen for Buy a Queen for

THERE’S NO CREDIT CHECK YOU PAY THERE’S NO THERE’S NO AS YOU GO CREDIT CHECK CREDIT CHECK PAY IN PERSON, YOU PAY YOU PAY BY PHONE AS YOU GO AS YOU GO OR PAY INONLINE PERSON, Prices starting at PAY IN PERSON, BY PHONE PhotosBY forPHONE illustration only. Not responsible for typographical errors. We reserve the right not to honor any incorrect pricing. OR ONLINE OR ONLINE

FREE BOXSPRING SALE FREE $2099 BOXSPRING SALE

Buy a King for

Buy a King for Buy a King for

receive aa FREE receive boxspring FREE boxspring boxspring receive

receive receive

boxsprings boxsprings boxsprings

Photos for illustration only. Not responsible for typographical errors. We reserve Rockford, the right not to honor any incorrect pricing. GUSTAFSON FURNITURE •typographical 808 W. errors. Riverside, •$2599 815.636.8608 • www.gustafsonfurniture.com for Sofa Several colors to choose from. Photos for illustration only. Not responsible for We reserve the right not to honorILany incorrect pricing.and Loveseat.

GUSTAFSON FURNITURE 808 W. Riverside,location: Rockford, IL • 815.636.8608 www.gustafsonfurniture.com OPENINGFURNITURE SOON in••an East State ••Street, Rockford, IL 61108 GUSTAFSON 808additional W. Riverside, Rockford,6651 IL • 815.636.8608 www.gustafsonfurniture.com

Hometown Merchant for 87 Years! 36 Months Home Thank You, Open 24 hours on the web

for the

Rockford, for Voting Us Your Number 1 Furniture Store

Holiday

SALE

Prices valid through 12/2/15

Find us on Facebook

0% Interes t

Mon & Fri 10am-8pm | Tues-Thur 10am-7pm Sat 10am-6pm | Sun 12-5pm Prices valid thru

Open 24 hours on the web

Wednesday December 9, 2015 Find us on Facebook

Ashley 5 Piece Dining Set

Ashley Reclining Sofa or Loveseat. YOU CHOOSE - 499 EACH

699each

Available in 3 colors. Artisan "Antique"

POWER POWER BEDS TWINS BEDS

STARTING AT TWINS STARTING AT

899 899

ULTRA ULTRA COMFORT COMFORT LIFT CHAIR

anyGUSTAFSON incorrect pricing.

Now

1349

GUSTAFSON'S GUSTAFSON'S FURNITURE & MATTRESS FURNITURE & MATTRESS

I N I N UPHOLSTERY: BEST: PWR LIFT 1AW21-20029 UPHOLSTERY: WAS 1049 NOW 575

BEST: PWR LIFT 1AW21-20029 ULTRA COMFORT PWR LIFT C WAS 1049 NOW HAIR/RECL PL340575 LIFT CHAIR ULTRA WASCOMFORT 989 NOWPWR 599LIFT C HAIR/RECL PL340 UPHOLSTERY WAS 989 NOWSETS: 599 BROYHILL 4231 SECTIONAL UPHOLSTERY SETS: WAS 2029 NOW 1699 BROYHILL 4231 6400221 SECTIONAL ASHLEY CHAIR WAS NOW250 1699 WAS 2029 479 NOW ASHLEYSECTIONAL CHAIR 6400221 ENGLAND 1W00 WAS 479NOW NOW1299 250 WAS 2180 SECTIONAL 1W00 BESTENGLAND WINGBACK CHAIR 0660DC-1 WAS NOW375 1299 WAS 2180 599 NOW BEST WINGBACK CHAIR 0660DC-1 ASHLEY SECTIONAL 7070 WAS 599 NOW NOW 725 375 WAS 1400 ASHLEY SOFA/LOVESEAT SECTIONAL 7070 ENGLAND WAS 1400 NOW 725 6205AL,6206AL ENGLAND WAS 3200SOFA/LOVESEAT NOW 2400 6205AL,6206AL ASHLEY RECLINING SECTIONAL 1080 WAS 3200 NOW2400 2400 WAS 3250 NOW ASHLEY RECLINING SECTIONAL ASHLEY OTTOMAN 8670208 1080 WAS NOW199 2400 WAS 3250 329 NOW Photos for illustration only. Not responsiASHLEY OTTOMAN ENGLAND OTTOMAN8670208 2407R blePhotos for typographical errors. reserve the for illustration only.WeNot WAS 329 NOW 199 WAS 459 NOW 199 right not to honor any incorrecterrors. pricing. ENGLAND OTTOMAN 2407R responsible for typographical WAS 459 NOW 199 We reserve the right not to honor

588 588

Island w/5 drawers

S T O R E C L A S S I F I E D TABLES H279221/201 S UPHOLSTERY T O RSETS: E CBASSETT L A S I F ENGLAND I E3PKD CHAIR S 1019-02-LINEN WAS 1369 NOW 799 WAS 929 NOW 525 ENGLAND STORAGE OTTOMAN 4530 ENGLAND 3PK TABLES H279221/201 BASSETT CHAIR 1019-02-LINEN UPHOLSTERY SETS: ASHLEY CHEST B429-46 WOOD PRODUCTS: WAS 659 NOW 299 WAS679 1369NOW NOW399 799 WAS 929 NOW 525 WAS ENGLAND STORAGE OTTOMAN BASSETT COCKTAIL TABLE ENGLAND OTTOMAN 5637 4530 ASHLEY CHEST WOOD PRODUCTS: ASHLEY END TABLEB429-46 T845-3 WAS489 659NOW NOW199 299 6767-0613 WAS WAS429 679NOW NOW175 399 WAS BASSETT COCKTAIL TABLE ENGLAND OTTOMAN 5637 WAS 699 NOW 299 NATUZZI SOFA B61900920 ASHLEY TABLE T845-3 6767-0613 ASHLEY YOUTHEND GIRLS NIGHTSTAND WAS 489NOW NOW1799 199 WAS 2765 ASHLEY T600-13 ENDTABLES(PAIR) WAS 429 NOW 175 WAS 699 NOW 299 WAS 199 NOW 75 NATUZZI SOFA B61900920 WAS 750 NOW 315 HGTV 2544-62, 2570-55 SOFA ASHLEY YOUTH GIRLS NIGHTSTAND ASHLEY NIGHTSTAND B697-92 WAS 2765 NOW 1799 ASHLEY T600-13 ENDTABLES(PAIR) BASSETT DRESSER/MIRROR WAS499 199NOW NOW195 75 AND OTTOMAN WAS WAS 750 NOW 315 HGTV 2570-55 2767-0242/0237 WAS2544-62, 2439 NOW 1499SOFA ASHLEYNIGHTSTAND NIGHTSTANDB246-92 B697-92 ASHLEY BASSETT DRESSER/MIRROR AND OTTOMAN WAS 1869 NOW 750 WAS589 499NOW NOW175 195 ENGLAND LOVESEAT 6206AL WAS 2767-0242/0237 WAS 2439 NOW 1499 ASHLEY T720 COCKTAIL TABLE WAS 1919 NOW 750 ASHLEYEND NIGHTSTAND B246-92 WAS NOW 750 BROYHILL TABLE 4986-0000 ENGLAND LOVESEAT W/11869 END TABLE WAS409 589NOW NOW95 175 HGTV 2542-52 STUDIO6206AL SOFA WAS ASHLEY T720 COCKTAIL TABLE WAS 1919 NOW 750 NOW 399 WAS 1369 NOW 550 BROYHILL ENDTABLE END TABLE4310-002 4986-0000 TABLE BROYHILL HGTV 2560-02 2542-52 GEMSTONE STUDIO SOFA ASHLEY W/1 3PK END TABLES T165-13 WAS369 409NOW NOW125 95 HGTV NOWNOW 399199 WAS WAS 1369 NOW 550 WAS 299 ACCENT CHAIR BROYHILL ENDTABLE 4310-002 ASHLEY3PK 3PKTABLES TABLEST231-13 T165-13 ASHLEY SOFA TABLE T697-4 HGTV GEMSTONE ASHLEY WAS2560-02 1169 NOW 675 WAS649 369NOW NOW350 125 WAS299 299NOW NOW199 199 WAS ACCENT WAS KINCAID CHAIRCHAIR 167-84 ASHLEYDRESSER SOFA TABLE T697-4 ASHLEY3PK 3PKTABLES TABLEST269-13 T231-13 ASHLEY B562-31 WAS959 1169NOW NOW350 675 ASHLEY WAS WAS 649 NOW 350 WAS299 299NOW NOW199 199 WAS 569 NOW 299 KINCAID CHAIR 167-84 WAS BASSETT CHAIR 3977-12FC ASHLEY DRESSER B562-31 ASHLEY3PK 3PKTABLES TABLEST140-13 T269-13 PRIMO FUTON FRAME 2814 WAS799 959NOW NOW399 350 ASHLEY WAS WAS620 569NOW NOW250 299 WAS319 299NOW NOW199 199 WAS BASSETTCHAIR CHAIR3999-12FC 3977-12FC WAS BASSETT PRIMO FUTON FRAME FRAME 2814 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T140-13 FASHION TWIN PLATFORM WAS 799 NOW 399 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T142-13 WAS 899 NOW 499 WASB51093 620 NOW 250 WAS 319 NOW 199 BASSETT CHAIR 3999-12FC WAS 305 NOW 199 KINCAID CHAIR 625-84 FASHION WASTWIN 319PLATFORM NOW 195 FRAME ASHLEYSOFA 3PK TABLES T142-13 WAS1629 899NOW NOW899 499 BROYHILL TABLE 4812-009 B51093 WAS BROYHILL QUEEN STORAGE BED WAS549 305NOW NOW299 199 KINCAID CHAIR 625-84 WAS WAS 319 NOW 195 ENGLAND CHAISE 1L00-80 4444-450 BROYHILL SOFA TABLE 4812-009 WAS 1629 NOW 899 BROYHILL QUEEN STORAGE WAS 939 NOW 499 WAS 1500 NOW 599 BED WAS 549 NOW 299 ENGLAND CHAISE 1L00-80 4444-450 WAS 939 NOW 499 WAS 1500 NOW 599

FURNITURE • 808 W. Riverside, Rockford, IL • 815.636.8608 • www.gustafsonfurniture.com Smart Living Weekly 2 21 GUSTAFSON 808additional W. Riverside,location: Rockford,6651 IL • 815.636.8608 • www.gustafsonfurniture.com OPENINGFURNITURE SOON in•an East State Street, Rockford,Dec. IL 61108

R  O R

“Merry & Bright” Continued from Cover

“The Merry & Bright season gives visitors and our residents a chance to partake in local holiday events that are unique to our region,” Albrecht adds. Stroll on State kicked off the Merry & Bright celebration last Saturday, with thousands of people gathering downtown to watch the lighting of the city Christmas trees and to take part in other festive activities. But the fun has just begun. This year, RACVB is launching two new events to add to the Merry & Bright calendar. Shop on State, a hometown holiday shopping experience, happens Thursday, Dec. 10, from 5 to 9 p.m. More than 14 local businesses downtown will offer shopping specials and free treats throughout the evening. “Shop on State will be a magical experience, as shoppers will feel the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping as they

Smart Living Weekly

take in the downtown decorations and discover great gifts at each store along State Street,” Albrecht says. “The event is a perfect fit for groups of friends to spend an evening shopping and socializing.” The signature event of the evening, Wine at Waterside, features an elegant wine tasting reception located at 124 N. Water St., Rockford. Guests can enjoy local and regional wines, along with specialty chocolates by CacaoCuvee. The second new event, the 12 Bars of Christmas Pub Crawl, commences Saturday, Dec. 19, starting at 2 p.m. at Prairie Street Brewhouse. From there, guests can make their way to Vintage @ 501, Kryptonite Bar, Octane Interlounge, Woodfire Pizza, Irish Rose Saloon, Social Urban Bar & Restaurant, Carlyle Brewing Co., The District, CJ’s Public House, Bamboo Asian Noodles & Tapas Bar, and Abreo. Each location has signature activities, as well as drink and food specials. A new attraction called “River Lights” is illuminating the Rock River

Dec. 2

downtown throughout the holiday season. Lights that are synchronized with music light up the riverbank every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night until Jan. 2. Light shows occur at 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. on these nights. Returning events to the Merry & Bright season include: • Holiday Festival of Lights: Nov. 29-Dec. 27, Sinnissippi Park. View more than 50 holiday displays sponsored by various local businesses and organizations throughout the region. • Lucia Concert: Dec. 4, Swedish Historical Society. Embrace a cultural celebration that lights up the darkest time of the year with Swedish traditions and delicacies. • “The Nutcracker”: Dec. 5-6, Coronado Performing Arts Center. Watch Rockford Dance Company and Rockford Symphony Orchestra perform this timeless family tradition. • Rockton Christmas Walk: Dec. 5, Downtown Rockton. Experience the

R  O R Candy Cane Craft Fair, the official lighting of the park, a lighted parade, horsedrawn wagon rides, a visit from Santa, carolers and more. • A Local Holiday Market: Dec. 5, Rockford University. Support local businesses while shopping some of the area’s best makers selling handmade goods. • J.R. Sullivan’s “Hometown Holiday”: Dec. 11-13, Coronado Performing Arts Center. Laugh along at this popular seasonal variety show featuring holidayinspired storytelling, comedy and seasonal songs. • Holiday Pops Concert: Dec. 1920, Coronado Performing Arts Center. Join the Mendelssohn Chorale and the Rockford Symphony Orchestra as they bring the best music of the season, from popular to traditional and sentimental to serious. • New Year Around the World: Dec. 31, Burpee Museum of Natural History. Celebrate the last hours of 2015 by watching performances of folk dancers

from different countries, viewing displays of items from various cultures and participating in activities to celebrate and welcome the New Year. • Countdown to Fun!: Dec. 31, Discovery Center Museum. Design a party hat, create a noisemaker and get showered with confetti during the countdown to midnight each hour. • The 2015 Snow Sculpting Competition: Jan. 20-23, Sinnissippi Park. View massive works of snow art and vote for your favorite. In addition, outdoor fun is intensifying for the Merry & Bright season as Rocktown Adventures hosts snowshoeing tours throughout Rock Cut State Park and various Rockford Park District facilities. Alpine Hills Adventure Park

is also offering snow tubing, skiing and snowboarding, including a magic carpet lift that carries you back to the top of the runs. For more information on Merry & Bright events, visit gorockford.com/merryandbright. “It’s great to be among hard-working, talented and inspiring people that give back to our community in such a merry and bright way,” Albrecht says. ❚

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Dec. 2

Y H

New Type of Cataract Eye Surgery Now Available Here B y To n i R o c h a

ataract procedures are one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the United States, with more than 3 million performed each year. In the past decade, advances have transformed the way surgeons are able to provide safe, permanent removal of these cloudy growths that can cause blurry vision, glare and rings of light. Rockford Ambulatory Surgery Center (RASC) has recently taken a major step forward in offering the latest equipment innovation, the LenSx® Laser, which offers specialists across our region the means to perform outpatient cataract surgery with vastly improved precision and predictability. “We began exploring several different femtosecond laser systems after one of our surgeons requested that we consider this new technology,” says RASC CEO and medical director Dr. Steve Gunderson. The goal of this laser operation is to break the cloudy lens into easily removable pieces, remove those pieces with phacoemulsification and insert an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) in place of the natural lens.Traditionally, surgeons accomplished this by making tiny incisions in the eye using a surgical knife. Today, patients can choose traditional, manual surgery or bladeless procedures assisted by advanced laser technology. The LenSx® Laser offers image guidance for predictability and enhanced precision. While eyes all share the same basic anatomy, each patient’s eyes are totally unique when it comes to size, depth, curvature and other key features. The LenSx® Laser allows surgeons to plan and perform a procedure that’s completely customized. For more than a decade, femtosecond lasers have helped surgeons perform LASIK with unparalleled precision and accuracy. Now the LenSx® Laser brings advanced accuracy and reproducibility to cataract surgeries performed 24

Smart Living Weekly

at RASC. The technology behind the LenSx® Laser captures high-resolution images that yield precise measurements and data, helping surgeons plan and perform cataract procedures to exacting specifications. Many patients experience improved vision after two weeks; they approach optimal vision between two and four months after their procedures. “RASC is the first facility in Rockford to acquire the LenSx laser, and we expect others to follow,” Gunderson says. There’s a price for advanced technology. “This new technology does not come without a price,” says Gunderson. “The laser costs about $400,000 and is not covered by insurance or Medicare. Patients must pay a $650 fee if they wish to have laser-assisted cataract surgery.” Gunderson says the Center for Medicare Services has placed restrictions on the use of the laser for Medicare patients. “Medicare Part B permits patients to pay for the LenSx laser when used specifically to implant premium refractive intraocular lenses (presbyopia-correcting or astigmatic-correcting), or when a refractive keratotomy is performed with a conventional lens,” Gunderson says. “The new technology provides enhanced imaging and integrated computations that are used to enhance the cataract procedure.” ❚

Dec. 2

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Y H

Major Advancements in Vein Treatment B y To n i R o c h a

n America, varicose veins affect 50 to 55 percent of women and 40 to 45 percent of men. Symptoms include fatigue, a heavy feeling in the legs, aching and burning, throbbing and itching, ulcers that won’t heal, cramping and restless leg syndrome. Yet varicose veins have been taken for granted as part of the aging process. The truth is, anyone at any age can develop varicose veins, as a result of valve failure that can occur because of leakage, calciﬁcation or other causes. For Dr. Rimas Gilvydis, a fascination with computerized, minimally invasive medical procedures, coupled with a family history of varicose veins, resulted in the founding of the Northern Illinois Vein Clinic, 1340 Charles St., Ste. 404. Here, patients of all ages with all levels of varicose vein disease ﬁnd state-of-theart help. Gilvydis became interested in specialized treatments for varicose veins dur-

ing his interventional radiology fellowship at Chicago’s Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center, now called Rush University Medical Center. His fellowship class was the ﬁrst to be introduced to the new minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins. “At that time, the treatment included only radiofrequency ablation of varicose veins,” he says. “Since I had a signiﬁcant amount of varicose veins myself, I instantly became very interested in learning this new treatment.” Today, he and Dr. Hyungman Kang perform endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) surgery, the very latest minimally invasive treatment available. Gilvydis began performing radiofrequency ablation treatments in SwedishAmerican Hospital’s cath lab. Encouraged by the excellent outcomes and a growing patient referral base, he decided to open a dedicated outpatient vein clinic where he could concentrate on varicose vein treatment. “I visited numerous other vein clin-

ics that were run by very well-known physicians in the ﬁeld,” he says. “I then took the positives from each of these clinics and developed what has turned out to be a very comprehensive and progressive vein clinic. Initially, the clinic was open just one day a week. That quickly expanded to ﬁve days a week, because of our successful outcomes.” A second location, Gilvydis Vein Clinic, has since opened in Sycamore, Ill., at 2127 Midlands Court, Ste. 102. ❚

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Dec. 2

Y F

Holiday Gift Expo Thru Jan. 3, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Shop for jewelry, alpaca products, wreaths, holiday decor, hats, scarves and other unique gifts from more than 100 local private and non-profit vendors. Freeport/ Stephenson County Visitors Center, 4596 U.S. Highway 20 East, Freeport, Ill., stephensoncounty-il.org. Sunday in the Park with George Dec. 2-12. Experience one of the most acclaimed productions of our time, “A Christmas Carol.” This story merges past and present into beautiful, poignant truths about life, love and the creation of art. Rock Valley College Studio Theatre, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford, (815) 921-2160, rockvalleycollege.edu. “The Nightmare Before Christmas” Dec. 3, 7 p.m. Movies on Main: Biweekly views of cult classic films. Admission $5 or free with your RPL library card. The Nordlof Center, Rockford, (815) 963-3341, rockfordpubliclibrary.org. Visual Arts Faculty Exhibit Nov. 5-Dec. 8. Featuring works by Bob Apolloni, Sam Tucibat, Reed Bakken and Jim Planting. Highland Gallery, Ferguson Fine Arts Center, Highland Community College, 2998 W. Pearl City Road, Freeport, (815) 599-3718. “The Nutcracker” Dec. 5-6. Rockford Dance Company performs this holiday ballet classic with RSO at Coronado Performing Arts Center (CPAC), Rockford, (815) 968-0595, rockforddancecompany.com. 23rd Annual Cookie Walk and Bazaar Dec. 5, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Enjoy homemade cookies, casseroles, Fair Trade gifts, crafts and artwork. A chili lunch is available for $6. The bazaar is in the gym. Second Congregational/First Presbyterian Church, 318 N. Church St., Rockford, (815) 9638431, secondﬁrst.org. Christmas in the Trenches Dec. 5, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m., 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Experience a re-enactment of the 1914 WWI Christmas truce. Sing carols with the soldiers, take part in the gift exchange, sip hot chocolate and even play football. $10. Midway Village Museum, Rockford, (815) 397-9112, mmnh.org. Holiday Tea Event Dec. 5, 2-4 p.m. Enjoy sweets, savories and scones along with pots of tea, served by costumed staff members. $35 adults/$30 members/$15 child.

Watch "The Nightmare Before Christmas Dec. 3 at 7 p.m. at The Nordlof Center.

Midway Village Museum, Rockford, (815) 3979112, mmnh.org. 1800s Holiday Walk Dec. 5, 6-8 p.m. Time-travel back to the 1800's by strolling along luminary lit paths, listening to carolers, stopping at log cabins to learn about Christmas past, meeting a Civil War Santa and enjoying holiday treats and live music. Free. Boone County Conservation District, 603 N. Appleton Road, Belvidere, Ill., (815) 547-7935. Evergreen Ball XXVII Dec. 5, 6 p.m. This elegant fundraising event features fine dining from Chef Paul Sletten of Abreo, live music by High Society Orchestra and entertainment by RYSO Strings. Proceeds support RAM throughout the year. $200, corporate tables available. Rockford Art Museum (RAM), 711 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-2787, rockfordartmuseum.org. Minecraft Unplugged Dec. 6, 1-4 p.m. Assemble cubelets, construct a village out of newspaper, get your hands on real rocks and minerals, make a torch that lights up, blow away zombies and dabble in pixel art. Discovery Center Museum, Rockford, (815) 9636769, discoverycentermuseum.org. “It’s a Wonderful Life: Live from WVL Radio Theatre” Dec. 6, 2 p.m. This 1940s “live broadcast” of Frank Capra’s beloved film will tak you back to the golden age of radio. The fresh adapation of the film is set in the fictional studio of WVL Radio Theatre. Monroe Arts Center, Gunderson Stiles Concert Hall, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis., monroeartscenter.com. ❚

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Dec. 2

WDL

Restaurant of the Week

Tavern on Clark: Great Food, Friendly Atmosphere By Peggy Werner

rothers-in-law Sam Sabani and Dan Isai 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 Dr., in the former Damon’s Restaurant building. “We were very intentional in creating what we describe as the classic American tavern, with a fresh, new, clean look, where there’s something for everyone,” says Sabani A full-service bar offers signature cocktails, an extensive wine list, about 40 bottled beers and eight domestic and imported drafts. Menu offerings include aged center-cut steaks and chops, fresh salads, flatbreads, appetizers, pasta, and ribs. Lunch and dinner specials include a Friday fish fry and Saturday prime rib, as

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Arturo's Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Authentic Fresh Mexican. 107 W. Main St., Poplar Grove, (815) 765-1144. LD M 11am-8pm; Tue-Th 11am-9pm; Fri 11am-10pm; Sun noon-8pm. $. Bravo Pizza E Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Rd., South Beloit, (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $. Cannova’s Italian Cuisine E Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., Freeport, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. $-$$. Ciao Bella Ristorante E Upscale-Casual/Italian-American. Extensive wine list; daily specials. 6500 E. Riverside, Loves Park, (815) 654-9900. LD M-F 11am-9pm, Sat 5-9pm. $$. Costa’s Ristorante E Upscale-Casual. 133 Blackhawk Dr., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. Open daily 4pm. $-$$. Dos Reales E Casual/Mexican. Authentic Mexican fare, lunch menu. 5855 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 227-4979. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 10:30pm. $-$$. Ebeneezer Brown Eatery & Pub E Casual. American classics. 4866 Bluestem Road, Roscoe; (815) 270-1213. LD Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-12 a.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. $-$$. Giordano’s Famous Stuffed Pizza E Casual/Italian. Pick-up/ delivery. 333 Executive Pkwy., Rockford, Ill. (815) 398-5700. LD Sun-Th 9am-11p.m; F-Sat to midnight. $. JMK Nippon Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar E Upscale-

well as regular Ahi tuna, mahi mahi and surf-and-turf deals. “We spent a lot of time researching what people wanted,” says Isai. “We offer quality you can’t find elsewhere.” All steaks and hamburgers are made from USDA-certified Black Angus beef, and all menu items are made-to-order from fresh produce, locally grown when possible. Signature dishes include a 10-ounce certified Black Angus beef burger and craft ale beer-battered sidewinder sea-salted French fries, served with a Wisconsin Cheddar beer sauce. Desserts include carrot cake, chocolate cake, New York cheesecake and more. The space is open and inviting, with plenty of natural light to showcase the quality décor of dark woods, stone walls,

Sam Sabani and Dan Isai

earth-toned granite countertops and porcelain tile. Large booths seat six comfortably, and a private dining room, with a wall-mounted flat screen TV and a fireplace, seats 50 and can accommodate business meetings and presentations. Tavern on Clark opens daily at 11 a.m. for lunch. Dinner is served until 10 p.m. on weekdays, 11 p.m. on weekends. The bar is open later. ❚

In the Spotlight Casual. 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. $$. Main Street Bistro E Casual/Fine dining. Th&Sat. 109 S. Galena, Freeport, (815) 232-2322. M-Sat 2pm-midnight. $$. Maciano’s Pizza & Pastaria E Casual. Beer/wine. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, (815) 963-7869. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $$. Maxson Riverside Restaurant E Casual/American. 1469 IL Route 2, Oregon, Ill., (800) 468-4222. LD M-Sat 11am-8pm, Br Sun 10am-3pm. $$. Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint E Fine Dining. Ironworks Hotel, 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, Wis. (608) 313-0700. D Sun.Th 4:30-9pm, Fri-Sat. 10pm. $$. Napoli Pizzeria III & Top Dollar Slots E Takeout/delivery. 6560 N. Alpine, Loves Park, (815) 877-9888. LD daily 11am. Prairie Street Brewhouse E Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$. Tavern on Clark E Casual/American. 755 Clark Ave., Rockford, (815) 708-7088. LD daily 10am. $-$$. This Is It Eatery E Casual/American. 16 N. Chicago Ave., Freeport, (815) 616-5449. LD T-Th 11am-8pm, F-Sat 10pm. $. Vito’s Ristorante E Casual/Authentic Italian. 1620 N. Bell School Rd., Rockford, (815) 312-5080. LD T-Sat 11am. $$. ❚

Ciao Bella

his authentic Italian restaurant, at 6500 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, has been family-run since it opened in 2008. “We serve home-cooked Italian food with deep red sauces, hearty soups and homemade pastas, and it all starts in the kitchen,” says owner Talia Castrogiovanni. Heading up the kitchen is brother Nikko, who joined the business about two years ago. The bar features drink and appetizer specials Mon.-Fri., 4-6 p.m. Menu specialties include pizza, pasta, salads and seafood. For lunch, Ciao Bella offers an express lunch of sandwich and endless soup, for $7. “Business people can get their meal within 10 minutes and still make it back to work within the hour,” says Castrogiovanni. Dinner prices are $12 to $25. Ciao Bella is open Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., and Sat. 5-9 p.m. ❚

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Dec. 2

T  I

Plan That Vacation

ure, we’re still in the midst of Holiday Season, but it’s never too soon to think ahead about your vacation planning. Although last-minute deals can be great, the best travel deals are usually scored well ahead of time. Here are some tips: 1. Think Ahead. By researching airfare, hotel and rental car costs ahead of time, you’ll tally major costs before you incur them and know how much money to save. 2. Make a Budget. Figure out how much to set aside each month toward vacation and stick to your plan. 3. Avoid Interest. If you make your reservations by credit card, pay them off completely before interest charges accrue. 4. Be Realistic. If you can’t afford to pay for the vacation up front, consider delaying your time table or cutting back on other expenses to help make up the difference. 5. Enjoy the Anticipation. Part of the fun of a wonderful vacation is anticipating it. Researching your destination before you go will extend the pleasure and help you to make wiser choices once you arrive. ❚

Mortgage Advisor 15 Yr Fixed

Lenders Byron Bank

Rate

byronbank.com

APR*

(815) 234-2561 Mo. Payment*

30 Yr Fixed

30 Yr Jumbo FHA/VA & ARM

3.09%

3.89%

3.75%

$990.26

$671.31

$671.49

3.47%

4.44%

4.79%

Please Call

Smart Living Weekly Magazine’s Mortgage Advisor is intended to provide you with a guide to securing the mortgage you seek. Quoted rates are supplied by the institutions (as of Nov. 30, 2015) and can change daily. Interest rates and monthly payment installments are based on a $150,000 loan with a 5% down payment and 0 points; FHA with a 3.5% down payment and 0 points. APR is based on a good faith estimate of prepaid finance charges. Your APR will vary according to the specifics of your transactions. Contact the bank, credit union or S&L directly for their most current rates. The mortgage rate you obtain will be based upon your credit rating, loan amount and standing with that particular financial institution. * APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Mo. Payment = The monthly principal and interest payment.

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Dec. 2

Y M

Score Black Friday-Worthy Deals Every Day B

lack Friday: the unofficial holiday when retail promotions peak, and the winter holiday shopping season kicks off. Americans across the country scour for deals and wake up before dawn to beat the crowds and score bargains on their most wanted products. But deals don’t only have to happen on one day. Here are four out-of-the-box ideas for landing the best deals all year long: • Anticipate the season before it arrives. When purchasing seasonal items like clothes, prices tend to be higher right before the seasons change. Avoid this by purchasing items like your winter coat or that grill you’ve been eyeing for summer barbecues a couple of seasons early – you’ll likely be able to get a great deal and beat peak season costs. • Be an informed shopper. Many people often find themselves without something they need then sprint to the nearest store to purchase it without a sec-

ond thought. This sense of urgency tends to cause consumers to overpay for goods. Doing even a few minutes of Internet research beforehand allows you find the closest, cheapest location that stocks exactly what you need. • Subscribe to email lists for tailored deals. You can score major savings (even ahead of other shoppers) at your stores if you opt in to receive their email newsletter. Choose your favorite brands and sign up for their mailing list – sometimes you can even get exclusive deals. • Start with your home. Home heating, cooling and electricity can be your most expensive bill, often because consumers aren’t aware of their options. Now more than ever, homeowners are finding ways to cut their electricity bill by making the switch to solar. Getting a good deal starts with re-

search. Home solar companies like Sunrun make it simple and affordable to get a solar system customized for your family’s needs and save 20 percent or more on electricity throughout the year. ❚ Source: Brandpoint

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Issue 1