Smart Living Weekly - November 19, 2014

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Save Smarter • Live Better • Rockford Region/Beloit 95¢ • Nov. 19, 2014

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Right in Our Region

Swingin’ Jazz Tribute at Franchesco’s

By Karla Nagy, associate editor

T

ony Bennett, Duke Ellington, Nat King Cole, Louie Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Sammy Davis Jr., The Andrews Sisters, Rosemary Clooney. The songs of these artists have become standards that represent an era of American history. Which is why jazz saxophonist Harlan Jefferson is honoring them.

On Nov. 29, he’s presenting “It Don’t Mean a Thing if it Ain’t Got that Swing: A Tribute to the Legends of Jazz,” at Franchesco’s in Rockford. “Many people love this kind of music, and they don’t get to hear it live in this area,” says the Rockford-born band leader and multiple RAMI winner.

Continued on p. 20

• Get All the SAVINGS You Deserve from Local Businesses

Conquering Chronic Pain • Prepare Your Tires for Winter • What to Look for in a Snow Blower Rockford’s Stroll on State • Sweet & Smoky Roast Chicken • Tips for Last-Minute Entertaining

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ............................. Cover & p. 20 Franchesco’s Night of Swing Your Home .................................................. .......... 11 Tips for Last-Minute Entertaining Inspiration & Worship .......................................... 12 Make Your List Your Kitchen ..........................................................15 Recipe: Sweet & Smoky Roast Chicken Your Style ..............................................................17 Create a Beautiful Holiday Tablescape Your Health ............................................. .............. 25 Don’t Let Chronic Pain Ruin Your Life Your Fun ................................................... ............. 27 Restaurant of the Week ........................................ 29 Ciao Bella Ristorante Dining Locally .......................................... ............. 29 Tips ........................................................... .............. 31 Check Your Tires for Winter Your Money .............................................. .............. 33 Tips for Purchasing a Snow Blower

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 Contributing Writers Jim Killam 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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Nov. 19

The Woman Behind America’s Thanksgiving

B

eing thankful for good things is a healthy habit, whether or not we’re religious.

The concept of “thanksgiving for the harvest” dates back to ancient times, in Judeo-Christian, pagan and other cultures. The U.S. holiday, however, is distinctly Christian.

Setting aside days for fasting and thanksgiving was common among 1600s Puritans.

In 1621, Gov. William Bradford, of Plymouth, Mass., organized a three-day celebration of thanksgiving after the colony’s first successful corn harvest, inviting American Indian allies to join in the merrymaking.

The colonists celebrated survival itself.

Much later, the Continental Congress designated one or more days of thanksgiving per year. Then, in 1789, President George Washington issued the first Thanksgiving Proclamation, asking Americans to thank God for their new country and to ask His blessings upon it. John Adams and James Madison followed suit, unofficially.

Perhaps the greatest champion of a national U.S. Thanksgiving holiday was author Sarah Josepha Hale (composer of “Mary Had a Little Lamb.”) For nearly four decades, she urged politicians to set aside an official day each year for Americans to give thanks for their country.

Hale’s cause was finally answered by President Abraham Lincoln, in 1863, during the Civil War. Lincoln chose the final Thursday in November and it remained so until 1939, when Franklin D. Roosevelt moved it up a week to spur retail sales during the Great Depression. Critics referred to his action as “Franksgiving,” and, in 1941, he reluctantly signed a bill making Thanksgiving the fourth Thursday in November.

Today, for many Americans, the holiday is about food, football and the lead-in to Black Friday. But it began with prayers for our nation and gratitude for survival itself. Have a great week! Janine Pumilia

October 16th, 2014

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Nov. 19

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Y H  G

Tricks for Entertaining Unexpected Guests T

he holiday season is a time for joy, giving and, at times, unexpected guests. For even the most unanticipated of visitors, it’s wise to always be ready to share the season’s cheer with a nice hot cup of coffee, freshlybaked cookies and a welcoming home.

This year, follow these simple tips for making lastminute holiday entertaining quick, easy and stress-free:

• Serve freshly-baked cookies.

Keep a variety of frozen cookie doughs on hand.

Then, simply pull out and bake as many cookies as you need.

• Light seasonal candles.

Candles scented with seasonal fragrances such as gingerbread or winter greenery are an inexpensive way to make your home smell good and feel warm and inviting, even without advanced notice.

• Stock a variety of beverages.

A single-serve brewing system is one of the most helpful items to purchase for entertaining. When choosing a model, make sure to take into account convenience, compatibility and, most importantly, taste. Consider a system that accepts different styles of single serve offerings, such as the Opus from iCoffee, available at Bed, Bath & Beyond. You don’t have to worry what brand or flavor of single serve cup you choose because the iCoffee can accept every k-style cup on the market.

• Take 5 minutes to de-clutter.

Instead of cleaning the house from top-to-bottom before guests arrive, spend just 5 minutes each day picking up common areas so that your home is clean and organized whenever guests arrive.

• Say thank you.

At the beginning of the season, buy a selection of seasonal holiday note cards. After guests visit, mail them a short note thanking them for their friendship and for stopping by. The personal gesture will speak volumes to them.

From a hot beverage to a personalized note, hosting unexpected guests this holiday season can be fun, easy and relaxed – with just a bit of preparation. ❚ Source: Brandpoint

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I  W

Grab a Pen! Q

uick! Without stopping to think, jot down 10 things you’re thankful for.

1.

2.

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10.

_______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________

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Did you run out of space? Find another sheet of paper and keep going. The truth is that there are always reasons to be grateful, no matter how many bad things there are to steal our focus.

We can start with the basics: Life itself – both now and eternal. Air to breathe. Eyes to see. Ears to hear. Skin that feels. The senses of taste and smell.

Through no effort on our part, we were fortunate to be born into communities where most of us have access to clean water and enough food to sustain us.

We can be thankful for every person we love and every person who loves us.

We can be thankful for good health; even when we’re sick, there are probably parts of our bodies that are working miraculously well. As we pray for people who have no homes, we also can be grateful for the shelter over our own heads, and warm beds to sleep in.

People with jobs can be thankful for those jobs. Students can be thankful for their education.

Too, we can be thankful for all of the simple and not-so-simple joys in our lives that motivate us not only to face each day, but to cherish it.

This list goes “to infinity and beyond.”

And on this eve of another U.S. Thanksgiving holiday, each of us can be thankful to live in a nation – albeit an imperfect one – where we enjoy individual rights and freedoms that most people who’ve lived on this planet – and many who still do – would view as a dream come true. Is the cup half full or half empty?

That’s up to each of us. We can choose to be thankful for every good thing in our lives, no matter what. ❚ Nov. 19

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Y Y K K

Spicing Up a Comforting Classic W

hether you’re preparing for a big gathering or hosting a small dinner with loved ones, make any get-together a special occasion with a twist on a delicious, seasonal classic.

Holiday cooking tips • Prepare some items a day or two in advance, or prep vegetables the day before.

• Brine the chicken the night before to loosen muscle fibers and allow it to retain moisture when roasting.

Impress your guests with a Sweet & Smoky Roast Chicken that will fill your home with enticing aromas and set the stage for joyful memories. Created by Chef Matt Gordon. For more delicious recipes for your holiday menu, visit tabasco.com. ❚ Source: Family Features

Get SLW Kitchen articles every week.

Visit NWQSmartLiving.com and start your e-Edition today.

Sweet & Smoky Roast Chicken Ingredients 1 3 ⅓ ¼ 4 8 1 1 1 1 1 2 ½ 1

whole chicken 2.5-4 lbs., rinsed qts. cold water cup kosher salt cup each, granulated & brown sugar sprigs fresh thyme cloves garlic Tbs. peppercorns lemon, sliced olive oil/cracked pepper to taste Tbs. vegetable oil jalapeno, de-seeded and minced red bell pepper, seeded & diced sticks celery, diced tsp. ground star anise or fennel tsp. smoked paprika

2 1 2 ½ 5 1 1 4

inch stick lemongrass, bruised cup apple cider vinegar cups orange juice cup brown sugar Tbs. Tabasco Chipotle Sauce, divided Tbs. cornstarch or arrowroot Tbs. water Tbs. butter

Directions

For brine, bring four cups of the 3 qts. of water to a boil. Remove from heat, add salt, sugars, thyme, garlic, peppercorns & lemon. In large bowl, combine with remaining cold water, submerge chicken, cover. Refrigerate 12-16 hours.

Preheat oven to 400°F. Remove chicken from brine, pat dry. Rub with olive oil; sprinkle with pepper. Bake breast side up for 45 minutes or until golden brown. Meanwhile, prepare sauce.

Heat oil in small saucepan over medium heat; add jalapeno, bell pepper, celery, anise, paprika, lemongrass; stir every 30 seconds for 3 minutes. Add vinegar, bring to a boil. Reduce by half, 3-4 minutes. Add orange juice, sugar, 4 Tbs. Tabasco Sauce. Reduce heat, simmer 5 minutes.

In separate bowl, combine cornstarch and water. Add to sauce and let simmer 1 minute. Turn off heat and stir butter into sauce until melted. Add remaining Tabasco Sauce.

Reduce oven to 300°F and bake chicken 10 minutes. Remove from oven, brush liberally with sauce; bake another 20 minutes. Rest 20 minutes before serving. Servings: 4-6.

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Y S

Inspired Holiday Tablescapes W ith the holiday home entertaining season gearing up, you want to create a holiday tablescape to serve as the focal point for your prettiest, most festive holiday party possible. The experts at CorningWare, Corelle & more stores offer these tips.

• Use family treasures.

Use a family heirloom as your starting point to bring a totally custom and retro twist to the table. Not only will it help to choose a color theme, but it will serve as a great conversation starter and ice breaker. Whether it’s your grandmother’s gorgeous glass vase filled with seasonal flowers that pop, or a retro tree topper, everyone at the table will notice and enjoy an unexpected piece.

• Sweeten the deal.

Nothing adds color and fun to a table like sweet treats. Fill uniquely shaped bowls and glasses with your favorite colorful holiday candy. Fill an oversized hurricane glass with mini candy canes or chocolates and marshmallows for after-dinner s’mores. Fill a cornucopia with treasures your guests will love, like old pictures, ticket stubs or memoribilia.

• Stay chic with the classics.

Invest in quality white dinnerware and serveware to easily transition from holiday to everyday use. Classic white plates complimented with white baking and serving vessels can serve as a blank canvas to add color and personal touches.

• Add seasonal elements.

Personalize the table with your favorite seasonal flowers, fruits and vegetables for an organic and fresh look that add color and texture to your tablescape. Add fragrance with festive greenery, such as berries, pinecones and sprigs of cedar.

• Match it up.

Components that match create the most cohesive looks. Find complete kitchenware collections from more than 80 trusted brands, as well as holiday products in festive colors and patterns, at CorningWare, Corelle & more stores.

Not only will guests bask in the creative design of your stunning table, but it will bring everyone together to create new memories – which is what the season is all about. For more ways to make your spread spectacular, visit shopworldkitchen.com. ❚ Source: Family Features

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Jazz Tribute Continued from Cover

The event will be hosted by Paul Logli and feature several local guest vocalists, including Dorothy Paige Turner, Dr. Kris Tumilowicz and Judge Glenn Schorsch.

This is the third year Jefferson has presented “A Tribute to the Legends of Jazz,” each held at Franchesco’s. “I love all music – gospel R&B, blues – and I do tributes to those, too,” he says. “This one seems to get the best response. We’ve sold out every year.”

That popularity inspired Jefferson to make this year’s jazz tribute a fundraiser for one of Rockford Park District’s summer programs.

“I’m in charge of Live at Levings, a free music series that features all varieties of entertainment, plus a summer-long talent competition for all kinds of performers – dancers, musicians, magicians, rappers,” he explains. “It’s held at Levings Park, and it’s designed to give atrisk youth the chance to participate in and attend a positive event.”

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Established in 1920, Levings Park is named after Thomas Levings, who served Rockford as highway commissioner and donated the land for the recreation space.

It was developed in 1928. Live at Levings A portion of the proceeds from this year’s jazz tribute will go to support was created in 1986 as Live at Levings, a free summer concert series by the Rockford Park Levings Talent Show- District and headed by Harlan Jefferson. case, and Jefferson has singing “The Star Spangled Banner” or been its director since 2003.

Many local and regional performers “O Canada.”

“Dr. T is singing a variety of old stanlend their talents to “A Tribute to the Legends of Jazz,” and while some make their dards, including hits from Frank Sinatra livings as singers and musicians, some and Dean Martin, two of his favorite performers,” Jefferson says. have other day jobs.

Another jazz vocalist is the Honorable Dr. Kris Tumilowicz, better known around town as “Dr. T,” owns and prac- Glenn Schorsch, a newly-appointed assotices dentistry at Dental Dimensions in ciate judge in Illinois’ 15th Judicial Circuit Rockford, specializing in cosmetic and Court. Schorsch is a regular performer in dental implant surgery. In his heart, how- Rockford’s popular “Legal Follies.”

Dorothy Paige-Turner is a retired ever, he’s a song and dance man. He’s a cantor in his church and occasion- music educator who worked in the Rockally opens Rockford Ice Hogs games by ford Public School system for 34 years.

Nov. 19

R  O R A favorite vocalist in Rockford for more than three decades, she performs traditional and contemporary jazz with the Joel Ross Quartet; like Jefferson, she is a multiple RAMI winner.

“Dorothy will cover jazz standards and favorites from the greats – Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Etta James,” says Jefferson. Paige-Turner also sings Big Band and contemporary jazz hits.

Joining in is Danielle Juhre, an awardwinning Chicago acoustic vocalist who specializes in jazz, blues and soul, and her Harlan Jefferson

special guest, Gabe Burdelis from Madison. Other performers include Frankie Wesson, Mike Williamson and Rick Burns, backed by members of the Harlan Jefferson Band and guest musicians.

“All are part of the arts community in Rockford, and they all understand the importance of the event,” says Jefferson.

The host for the evening is former state’s attorney and judge Paul Logli. “He may even sing,” Jefferson says.

This is the third year that Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Spring Creek Road, has

hosted the event. Owner Benny Salamone believes it’s the perfect venue.

“We have rooms with the Rat Pack theme – Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin,” he says.

Tickets for the performance are $50, and guests pay separately for food and beverages.

“We partner with Harlan for promotion of the event,” Salamone explains.

“We put together a special menu, but folks can order from the regular menu, too.”

Salamone says Jefferson’s passion and love of jazz is contagious.

“I love Harlan’s sax playing,” he says.

“Seldom do we get this kind of music in Rockford, and Harlan brings together local celebrities and Chicago performers who put on a fantastic show. This is Harlan’s baby. We basically work for Harlan on that day.”

To attend “It Don’t Mean a Thing if it Ain’t Got that Swing: A Tribute to the Legends of Jazz,” call Franchesco’s at (815) 229-0800 for reservations. “Guests pay for the tickets when they call,” says Salamone. ❚

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Don’t Let Chronic Pain Rule Your Life

By Craig Schmidt

C

hronic pain – pain that lasts at least three months and resists conventional medical treatments – can devastate lives by forcing people from jobs and destroying relationships with family and friends.

While medication goes a long way in pain treatment, it often isn’t enough to control all of the symptoms. When chronic pain is poorly controlled, living with it is a challenge. Other therapies, like physical therapy, can help.

Still, many people pursue healthy, productive lives in spite of continuing pain. This is because they have found ways to cope.

• Accept Your Condition Recognize pain as a problem. Learn about your condition and talk through treatment options with your doctor.

• Exercise Regularly Use it so you don’t lose it. Muscles become weak from inactivity, and weak muscles are more vulnerable to pain. A safe exercise program keeps muscles active and joints flexible, which alleviates the symptoms of chronic pain.

• Learn to Relax Stress makes muscles tense, which increases pain. Relaxation as a pain management tool can be used on its own or in combination with other treatments. Yoga, guided imagery,

deep breathing, or sitting in a quiet room and listening to peaceful music decrease stress and muscle tension.

• Don’t Go it Alone One in 10 Americans has chronic pain at some point.

A support group, or even a supportive friend, can offer advice and tips on what techniques have worked for them.

• Set Realistic Goals Managing pain in small steps provides a sense of accomplishment and enables you to achieve larger goals more effectively.

Pain that won’t let up can be discouraging at best and unbearable at worst. Remember that there are treatment options that can lessen your pain and improve your quality of life. ❚ Source: Medical Pain Management Services, Ltd. Get SLW Health articles every week. Visit NWQSmartLiving.com and start your e-Edition today.

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Babes in Arms Nov. 20-23, Thurs.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. Musical about a young man and woman who put on a show with their friends to avoid having them sent to a work farm. Rockford University, 5050 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 226-4032.

(Visit Beloit photo)

11th Annual Sips & Sweets Nov. 20, 6-10 p.m. Fundraiser for Stateline Boys & Girls Clubs. Wine, hors d’oeuvres, wine & gourmet chocolate pairings. Cash bar, silent auction. $75/$100 per couple. Ironworks Hotel, 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, (608) 3658874, statelinebcg.org.

Santa and Mrs. Claus light the Christmas tree, then ride in the Lighted Holiday Parade on Nov. 28 in Downtown Beloit.

Torq Percussion Quartet Nov. 21, 7:30 p.m. Renowned for its engaging performances and repertoire, this group adds new vitality to percussion repertoire and performance. Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, Rockford, mendelssohnpac.org.

Bushnell Wheeler Christmas Open House Nov. 21-23, Fri. 5-9 p.m., Sat.-Sun. noon-5 p.m.

The historic house decorated for the season, with a Christmas tree in every room, cookies, punch and coffee. Bushnell Wheeler House, 532 Wheeler Ave., South Beloit, bushnellwheelerhome.com.

Holiday Tree Lighting & Open House Nov. 21-22, Fri. tree lighting 5-7 p.m.; Sat. open house noon-4 p.m. Live entertainment; activities; more. Edgebrook, 1639 N. Alpine, Rockford, (815) 226-0212, edgebrookshops.com.

Barbara Buck Studio Santa Fest Nov. 21-23, Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m-7 p.m.; Sun. noon5 p.m. Celebrate the 29th anniversary of this annual holiday gallery walk featuring heirloom quality, one-of-a-kind Santas. 1240 S. Walnut, Freeport, (815) 541-8890.

Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis Nov. 22, 8:30 a.m. Annual fundraising event for the Arthritis Foundation. Teams/individuals run/5-kilometer walk. Info: (312) 880-4733, jinglebellrockford.kintera.org. Event: Indoor Sports Center, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park.

Ladies’ Day Out Nov. 22, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Santa 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Local and home-based businesses with jewelry, clothing, food, health & beauty products, kitchen items, more. Free gift wrapping; free admission.

Food drive, raffles. Fundraiser for Lena Area Church Cooperative. Elementary School, 401 Fremont St., Lena, Ill., (815) 275-3997.

Magic Man Zack Percell!

Nov. 22, 11 a.m. A program for the whole family that mixes humor, magic and audience participation. Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 965-7606, rockfordpubliclibrary.org.

Kegel Harley-Davidson Champagne Party Nov. 22, 5-9 p.m. Live music, free gift wrapping, food, drink, beer for purchase and champagne. Win a 2013 Fat Boy Lo (must be present to win). Kegel Harley-Davidson, 7125 Harrison Ave., Rockford, (815) 332-7125, kegelmotorcycles.com.

Rotary Botanical Gardens Taste of Chocolate Nov. 22, 6-10 p.m. A delicious meal, decadent chocolate, festive music and more than 355,000 twinkling lights. Rotary Botanical Gardens, 1455 Palmer Dr., Janesville, (608) 752-3885, rotarybotanicalgardens.org.

Light Up the Parks Holiday Parade Nov. 23, parade start 4:45 p.m.; tree lighting 7 p.m. Start at Schneider Electric, 1354 Clifford Ave., north on Elm, ends at Roosevelt Road. Float awards at Holiday Tree Lighting, Machesney Park Village Hall, 300 Machesney Road.

(815) 633-3999, parkschamber.com.

Lighted Holiday Parade Nov. 28, 5-8 p.m. tree lighting 6 p.m., parade 6:30 p.m. Santa comes from a rooftop to light the tree; floats made by businesses, civic organizations, families. Starts 200 block West Grand, ends at Horace White Park-Beloit. Visit Santa at Turtle Creek Bookstore from 7 p.m. Beloit, Wis., (608) 365-0150, visitbeloit.com. ❚

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WDL

Restaurant of the Week

Ciao Bella Ristorante

By Paul Anthony Arco, senior staff writer

T

alia Castrogiovanni smiles when she thinks back to the first five years as owner of Ciao Bella, 6500 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park.

“We have a loyal group of customers,” she says. “And we’re trying to entice younger customers to experience Ciao Bella.

Many things have helped to draw younger customers, including adding entertainment, and offering drink specials and free appetizers in the bar Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m.”

Lunch and dinner specialties include pizza, pasta, salads and seafood, including seasonal dishes of halibut and sea bass.

There’s also salmon Izzabella, grilled and topped with a light lemon cream sauce, chopped asparagus, capers, tomatoes and a side of garlic allioli linguini. Dinner prices are $11 to $22.

“We serve home-cooked Italian food with deep red sauces, hearty soups and homemade pastas,” Castrogiovanni says. “Our tomato sauces start here in the kitchen.”

For lunch, Ciao Bella offers a $7 sandwich and endless soup.

“We’re known for express lunches,” says Castrogiovanni. “Business people can get their meal within 10 minutes and still make it back to work within the hour.”

Castrogiovanni says the biggest boost to the menu has been the return of her brother Nikko, who joined the family-owned business a year ago. “He’s made a huge difference,” she says.

“It’s nice to have him back.”

Ciao Bella owner Talia Castrogiovanni with dad Nick and brother Nikko.

Inside, the walls are finished in aux fresco and painted in rich gold and burgundy. Tables and chairs are cinnamon oak. Recessed, track and pendant lighting enhance the atmosphere, while soft music completes the soothing ambiance. “I wanted a place that was cozy and comfortable,” Castrogiovanni says.

Melody Roccaforte of Rockford has been going to Ciao Bella since it first opened. “They do so many things that are outstanding,” she says. “The staff is wonderful, and the bartenders are very personable. And the atmosphere is amazing. It’s like the Italian version of Cheers. When someone walks in, they know almost everyone in the bar. They always look up and say ‘hello’ to whoever comes in. You don’t get that everywhere.”

Ciao Bella is open Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 5-9 p.m. ❚

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

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  Italian/American favorites, full bar. 376 Prairie Hill Rd., South Beloit, Ill. (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $.

Butterfly Club  Upscale-Casual/Fine Dining. 5246 E. Co. Road X, Beloit, Wis., (608) 362-8577. LD T-Th 5-9:30pm, F 4:30-10pm, 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. $.

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, live entertainment, weddings, Sinatra Lounge, Benny’s Bar. 7128 Spring Creek Rd., Rockford, (815) 229-0800. LD M-Th 11am-10pm, F to 11pm, Sat-Sun 4pm. $$.

Giordano’s  Casual/Italian. Pasta, deep-dish pizza, specialties. 333 Executive Pkwy., Rockford, (815) 398-5700. LD 11 a.m.-midnight $.

JMK Nippon Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar  Upscale-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. $$.

Leombruni’s Italian Restaurant  Casual. 110 W. 2nd St., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-2696. D T-Th 5-9pm, F-Sat to 11pm, Sun to 10pm. $.

Cannova’s Pizzeria & Fine Italian Cuisine  Casual. Pizza, pasta, steak, seafood. 1101 W. Empire St., Freeport, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. $-$$.

Main Street Bistro  Fine dining, bar, live music Th&Sat. 109 S. Galena Ave., Freeport, (815) 232-2322. M-Sat 2pm-midnight. $$

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. $$.

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

Napoli Pizzeria III & Top Dollar Slots  Pizza, pasta, sandwiches, dinners, desserts. Takeout/delivery. 6560 N. Alpine, Loves Park, (815) 877-9888. LD Sun-Th11am-10:30pm, F-Sat to 11:30pm. $-$$.

Olympic Tavern  Casual/American. Family friendly, vast beer selection, great burgers, beer garden. 2327 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 962-8758. LD M-Sat 11am-2am. $-$$.

Prairie Street Brewhouse  Upscale-Casual/American.

Riverside dining, handcrafted beers, banquet room 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 Ave., Freeport, (815) 616-5449. LD T-Th 11am-8pm, F-Sat to 10pm. $.

Vito’s Ristorante  Casual/Italian. Authentic fare from family recipes. 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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T  I

Tire Tips for Winter

By Karla Nagy

A

mong the many adjustments we must make with the onset of cold, snowy weather is checking our car tires. Ryan Lovejoy, owner of Jack’s Tire Sales & Service, 4829 Prairie Hill Road in South Beloit, points out the three big areas to address.

• Tread “Make sure you have proper tread depth,” Lovejoy says. The old standby for checking this is the penny test. Place a penny upside down in the tread, and if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires. “The standard measure is that you have too little when it’s at two-thirty seconds – that basically the Lincoln head measure,” he says. “But you really should replace them before then.”

• Air Pressure Tire pressure needs to be increased in winter, because gases expand in the heat and contract in the cold. “When it’s colder, your tires lose air pressure, because the molecules compress,” Lovejoy explains.

“You need to add about four more pounds of air pressure to compensate.”

• Tire Style “You really need to make sure you have an all-season tire on your car,” Lovejoy says. Cars are being designed with larger wheels, and an all-weather tire may not be available for all of them.

“Car manufacturers want cars to look cool, and so they make a larger wheel,” he explains. “Tire manufacturers can’t keep up with demands for the sizes.”

This means that more car models are coming with summer or performance tires standard. “They just aren’t meant for winter driving,” Lovejoy says.

The best way to be certain that your tires are ready for the cold, icy winter ahead is to have them checked by a professional. To learn more about tires, stop in or visit online at jackstire.com. To schedule an appointment, call (815) 389-9849. ❚ Get SLW Tips & Information articles every week. Visit NWQSmartLiving.com and start your e-Edition today.

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Y M

Smart Advice for Buying a Snow Blower

By Jim Killam

W

hen buying a snow blower, it’s important to get the correct model and size for your needs. Tim Kinney of Lincoln Rent-All & Lawn Equipment Sales, 3110 Auburn St., Rockford, offers a few tips for buyers.

First, determine what size snow blower you need. They come in two basic types, single-stage and two-stage.

Single-stage: This model is ideal if you have a flat, midsized paved driveway and walks; it easily handles snowfall up to 8 inches. It’s fairly light, easier to handle than a two-stage, and takes up about as much space as a lawn mower.

Single-stage models usually clear an 18- to 22-inch swath, with rubber paddles that contact the surface to sweep the snow up and out of a chute in one quick movement. The rubber parts are forgiving on blacktop and concrete driveways, Kinney says, but since its auger contacts the ground, don’t use it on gravel driveways.

Two-stage: This type is best if you have a long, wide, or hilly driveway. It can take on a lot more snow than a single-stage and clear a swath 24- to 32-inches wide. A metal auger funnels the snow backward inside the machine, where a spinning impeller throws it out of a chute at high velocity, typically 10 to 15 feet farther than single-stage machines.

“If you’re in an area with a lot of drifting, a two-stage is better,” Kinney says.

Metal skids can be height-adjusted, depending on the surface. Since the auger doesn’t contact the ground, a two-stage model is needed for a gravel driveway.

Next, decide what features you need.

Both types come in electric and gas models, and controls can vary. “Can you handle just a pull start, or do you need an electric start?” Kinney asks. “The electric

start doesn’t have a battery, so you do have to plug it in, but once it starts, you unplug it and you’re good to go.”

Engine type is another consideration.

Lincoln Rent-All sells only Toro snow blowers, which have four-cycle engines.

That means you don’t have to mix the gas and oil, as you would with a two-cycle.

If you just need a machine to clean off sidewalks, a deck, or even a very short city driveway, consider a smaller, all-electric model. They’re less powerful but convenient and require little maintenance. ❚

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