Smart Living Weekly - February 22, 2017 by Northwest Quarterly Mag

Sm mart a r t L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • February 22, 2017

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Right in Our Region

40th St. Patrick’s Day Parade

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Meet Mr. Fix-It The Buzz About BIFF Learn Money Basics Kindness: Pass It On Recipe: Dark Chocolate Brownies

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 20 40th St. Patrick’s Day Parade Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Design Trends for 2017 Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Yearning for God Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Dark Chocolate Brownies Your Outing ........................................................17 Gear Up for BIFF Your Technology .........................................19, 31 Meet Mr. Fix-It; Lower Your Technology Bills Your Auto ..........................................................23 Caring for Your Car Your Health ............................................. .......... 25 What to Know About Your Water System Your Senior Living ........................................... 29 Close Bonds at Crimson Pointe Your Fun ............................................................ 27 Dining & Dish of the Week ...............................29 Bravo Pizza Your Money ................................................... ....33 Kindness: Pass it On

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Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Janine Pumilia

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Assistant Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen Deputy Editor Jermaine Pigee Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Ryan Contributing Writers Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes

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Website www.SmartLivingWeekly.com Published by Hughes Media Corp. 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 (815) 316-2300, Fax: (815) 316-2301 lhughes@northwestquarterly.com Smart Living Weekly. Copyright 2017 by Hughes Media Corp., 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

Winter Wonders

ome of our region’s most signiﬁcant events happen during late winter. February brings the opening of the Beloit International Film Festival (BIFF), now a 10-day event (Feb. 24 to March 5) that attracts people from around the globe. We’ve been writing about BIFF in Northwest Quarterly Magazine since it began 12 years ago. BIFF is so successful that its executive director, Rod Beaudoin, has been lured away by West Coast types to develop the Hollywood Film Festival. But don’t worry. Longtime BIFF veteran Max Maiken is at the helm. In a BIFF programming change, “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?” is now the 2017 featured classic film. This brilliant 1967 comedy tackled the issue of interracial marriage when it was still illegal in 17 U.S. states. It stars Spencer Tracy, Sidney Poitier, Katharine Hepburn and her niece, Katharine Houghton. Tracy – whose parents were married and buried in Freeport, Ill. – died just weeks after filming was completed on this, his 75th and final film. The 2017 honorary BIFF chair is director Jon Pavlovsky, who’s currently in preproduction on “Lesser Evil,” a feature written by Blake Heron (“Bourne Identity”). Also attracting globetrotters to our region is PaleoFest, the highly respected (and fun) science festival at Burpee Museum of Natural History. Reading the March 4 & 5 lineup of this year’s speakers, I can’t help but admire the Indiana Jones-like adventurers headlining the event. This year’s keynote speaker is Dr. Matthew C. Lamanna, who’s led field expeditions to Antarctica, Argentina, Australia, China, Egypt and Greenland. He’s appeared on TV programs for PBS (NOVA), the Discovery Channel, the History Channel, A&E, the Science Channel and more. We’ll tell you more about PaleoFest in next week’s issue. There’s plenty happening right here in our region, so don’t let cabin fever overtake you. Have a great week! ❚ Janine Pumilia Managing Editor

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Y H  G

2017 Home Interior Trends: Comfort is Key By Janine Pumilia, managing editor

hen it comes to 2017 style trends, today’s designers do an admirable job of making sure comfort and style coexist peacefully. “Comfort is huge,” says Trina Gustafson, co-owner of Gustafson Furniture & Mattress, with locations on East State Street and West Riverside Boulevard. “A rustic, casual look is very big, but it’s not the dark and heavy rustic of yesterday.” Think about the ways Joanna Gaines uses rustic details on the TV show “Fixer Upper,” Gustafson suggests. “It’s light and airy but also has a lot of character and rich detail. Her Magnolia Home furniture lines are inspired by primitive, industrial, French, traditional, Bo Ho and farmhouse styles. You find these influences across many brands today.” Today’s furniture is pretty – and practical – but not pretentious. Walk through

one of the Gustafson’s showrooms and you’ll spy a sleek end table by Kincaid with a flip-up storage nook to conceal lamp cords and a phone charging station. That’s practical. Nearby are reclining sofas that not only have automatic leg rests and backs that adjust to any position, but also automatic headrests that do the same. “You don’t have to adjust to its shape,” Gustafson says. “It adjusts to yours.” In terms of style, “There’s a lot of glitz to be found on showroom floors right now, whether gold or silver, in accessories, lamps and furniture details.” Think mullions on glass doors, metallic stripes on wood inlays, gilt sunburst mirrors, ornate metal drawer pulls. When it comes to wall colors, earthy greens and dusky blues are new favorites.

“Greenery” is the Pantone Color of the Year, “a refreshing and revitalizing shade symbolic of new beginnings.” At recent home shows, Gustafson noticed soft green used as a neutral on walls. Gray remains a favorite neutral and is warming up. Think fawn gray rather than steel gray in wood tones, fabrics and wall color. “And we’re seeing a lot of blue in textiles,” says Gustafson. “Navy blues but also aquas and other blues.” ❚

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I  W

Yearning for God

t’s a fact of human nature that we most yearn for God during times of personal hardship. We yearn to hear His voice when we’re grief-stricken, sick, imprisoned, broken-hearted or otherwise in a position of weakness. Conversely, it’s all too easy to forget about God when we feel that “we have things under control.” In those times we may give Him lip service or keep up appearances, but without a heart-to-heart yearning to hear His voice, we just might miss something important that He has to show us. God told Paul “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Cor. 12:9 ESV). Psalm 42 expresses the yearning for God that can fill us in good times and bad: As the deer pants for the water brooks, So pants my soul for You, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God? My tears have been my food day and night, While they continually say to me, “Where is your God?” When I remember these things, I pour out my soul within me. For I used to go with the multitude; I went with them to the house of God, With the voice of joy and praise, With a multitude that kept a pilgrim feast. Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him For the help of His countenance. O my God, my soul is cast down within me; Therefore I will remember You from the land of the Jordan, And from the heights of Hermon, From the Hill Mizar. Deep calls unto deep at the noise of Your waterfalls; All Your waves and billows have gone over me. The Lord will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, And in the night His song shall be with me—A prayer to the God of my life. I will say to God my Rock, “Why have You forgotten me? Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?” As with a breaking of my bones, My enemies reproach me, While they say to me all day long, “Where is your God?” Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, the help of my countenance and my God. ❚

Want a second opinion? We give you one at every visit! The L.P. Johnson Family Health Center (FHC) trains resident physicians. Every time you see a resident physician, a seasoned family physician reviews your current condition. You benefit from the highest standards of family focused care. As the family medicine residency program for the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford, FHC has trained more than 400 family medicine physicians, many of whom continue to provide care in our community. We accept most insurance and are open 8 am–8 pm Monday through Thursday and 8 am–5 pm on Fridays.

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Y K

Sweetheart Dark Chocolate Brownies C

hocolates? Roses? Been there, done that. Let the special someone in your life know every day how much you care. Here are some easy and fun ways to prove that he or she is number one in your book. Make a Playlist of “Your Songs” Every couple has songs that mean something special to them. In the car, leave a CD stocked with your most memorable tunes as a special surprise and a suddenly better commute. Do the house chores. Seriously. Fix that item you’ve been saying you would ﬁx forever. Empty the dishwasher and clean the bathroom. When they get home, the only thing left to do is enjoy each other’s company. Put Pen to Paper Hide little notes with heartfelt sentiments on the refrigerator, on the nightstand, taped to the computer screen – any place they might stumble upon it throughout a typical day. Raise a Glass and Indulge

Toast each other with some tasty treats. Pop some bubbly, then enjoy this recipe together. For more romantic wines and recipes, visit www.barefootwines.com.

Dark Chocolate Brownies

Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter, cut into pieces 4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped 2 eggs, at room temperature 3/4 cup white sugar 1 tsp. vanilla 1/2 cup all-purpose ﬂour 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1/2 tsp. kosher salt For the glaze: 2 ounces semisweet chocolate 1 TB unsalted butter Preparation: Preheat the oven to 350°F. In small pot over low heat, melt 1/2 cup of butter and 4 ounces of dark chocolate together until

smooth. Add eggs one at a time, and whisk to combine after each addition. Add sugar and vanilla and stir to combine. Add flour, cocoa powder and salt and stir until smooth. Transfer batter into a 9 x 9 aluminum foil lined baking pan and place it into the oven for 25 minutes and bake until done. While brownies are baking, melt together semisweet chocolate and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter for the glaze. Once melted, set aside. When brownies are done, let them cool. Then, drizzle glaze over brownies, and spread it on top using an offset spatula. ❚

Source: Family Features

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Y O

Gear Up for Beloit International Film Festival By Lindsey Gapen, assistant managing editor

eloit International Film Festival (BIFF) is one of the most significant cultural events in our region. For 10 days, downtown Beloit welcomes hundreds of visitors. Filmmakers and film lovers intermingle in the local bars and restaurants, while the top 100 films from more than 1,000 submissions evoke intelligent discussion. “If you’ve experienced BIFF, I don’t have to ask you to come back because you’ll already want to,” says Rod Beaudoin, BIFF executive director. “It’s a world class festival with the warmth of a small town.” Now in its 12th year, BIFF takes place Feb. 24 through March 5 and tickets are $9 per film. There are documentaries, narrative features and short films that include dramas, psychological thrillers, historical fiction and more, screened at various locations throughout Beloit.

It’s easy for the BIFF team to mention a few favorite films at this year’s festival. The narrative feature “Demimonde” ranks high on everyone’s list. Filmed in Hungary, this murder mystery takes place in the early 1900s. “It’s just so beautifully shot,” Beaudoin says. “The costumes are amazing and the cinematography is stunningly beautiful. It’s a real piece of art.” “Dead Slow Ahead” is classified as a “slow burn,” or a film that places emphasis on slower, yet significant moments in life. “A slow burn is something you’re going to watch if you’ve been deep into film and you’ve become bored of the typical thing,” says Adam Fogarty, BIFF programming director. For a quality feel-good film, Beaudoin recommends “Growing Up Smith,”

a coming-of-age story about an immigrant experiencing the American Dream. During its first weekend, BIFF exclusively showcases films made by Wisconsin and Illinois residents. Beaudoin has a few top picks, including “Thank You For Your Service” and “60 Yard Line.” The latter is about the Green Bay Packers and will play multiple times throughout the festival. Learn more about BIFF at beloitfilmfest.org. ❚

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Y T

If You Broke It, Apple Shack Can Fix It By Peggy Werner

nthony Jenkins, owner of Apple Shack Repair Shop, 11706 N. Main St., Roscoe, had all the components in place to make his life work. He just had to put them together. For as long as he can remember, Jenkins has loved electronics. This, coupled with the strength of character that comes from serving in the U.S. Marine Corps and getting a college education, has led him to a career of doing what he loves best. “I grew up in a rough neighborhood and it was good that my interest in computers kept me off the streets,” he says. “I had an affinity for electronics, which my grandfather recognized. He encouraged me. As a kid, I liked to tinker with stuff and was always taking things apart and putting them back together to make them work.” Jenkins also learned a lot from a

childhood friend who became the IT director at Virginia Technical Institute. The Apple Shack specializes in the repair and replacement of all Apple and Samsung products, including smart phones, tablets and computers. “If it has a power button, I’ll work on it,” he says. Jenkins started his business three and a half years ago, with $150, a desk, a box of parts and the tenacity to get it right. While waiting for his business to grow, he bought items in disrepair from eBay and fixed them. A Virginia native, Jenkins made his way to the Rockford area 12 years ago, after meeting wife Colette, who was in

business for herself in South Beloit. She sensed he had what it took to be a business owner and encouraged him. Her business, BeDazzled Salon and Day Spa, is in the same building as Apple Shack. For more information or to make an appointment, contact Jenkins at appleshackrepair.com or call him at (779) 203-8500. ❚

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R  O R

Enjoy 40th St. Patrick’s Day Parade March 11 F By Janine Pumilia, managing editor McDade, a parade organizer, Irish folk or four decades, Irish-Americans singer and grandson of Irish immihave marched down Rockford grants. “We like to say our part of the streets to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day American stew is just a little bit greenand the wearing of the green. Always, er. Think of this as an Irish Mardi Gras friends from all ethnic backgrounds have and the kick-off to springtime.” marched alongside them. On Saturday, March 11, the 40th “We Irish love keeping our cultural Rockford St. Patrick’s Day Parade traditions alive but we also cherish diwill step off at 3 p.m. from 5th Aveversity,” says Danny Michael Patrick nue, south of the BMO Harris parking lot. It will head north on 7th Street, turn west on East State Street, then north on Madison Street, ending at Prairie Street Brewhouse. There, PaddyFest will commence at 4:30 p.m. with special food and four stages of live Irish song and dance. “The dancers will rove throughout the restaurant and there won’t be a bad seat in the

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house,” says McDade. The parade is free for all to enjoy, and marchers can participate at no cost as long as they register ahead of time and come with an attitude “to have fun and keep things light-hearted,” says McDade. PaddyFest entrance requires a prepurchased wristband and runs from 4:30 to 8 p.m.; children under 14 enter free with their parents.

R  O R All parade funding is privately donated. “We march rain or shine. Every year, we look forward to bringing our families out to have fun together,” says McDade. “There’s a special something in the Irish DNA that makes us love music and dancing and the celebration of life. And it’s highly infectious.” McDade traces that “special something” back through many centuries. Despite enduring invasions by Vikings, Normans, British and others, Irishmen held

tight to their cultural identity. When more a million of them fled Ireland between 1820 and 1870, forced from their homeland by poverty and famine, they proudly brought that identity with them. There are now seven times as many people claiming Irish heritage in American than in all of Ireland today, says McDade. “The Irish immigrants were treated like third-class citizens, were viewed by many in the U.S. as shiftless peasants,” he says. “So, many of them gravitated toward jobs in public service, becoming police officers and firemen, earning respect by taking on dangerous work. The term ‘Paddy’ was used in a derogatory way, at first, to refer to Irishmen. But we embraced the term and have fun with it now. Adapting to your new environment is what cultures that thrive do.” The unfriendly

welcome their Irish ancestors received may be one reason today’s Irish-Americans prize diversity so highly. “Anyone is welcome to march with us in our parade as long as they register,” says McDade, who retired from the U.S. Marines after 30 years of service. He currently pilots the REACT emergency rescue helicopter for Mercyhealth. He also performs traditional and modern Irish music in local pubs under the name “Danny’s Gone Rogue.” “To this day, the Irish are known for their prolific contributions to music, dance and literature,” he says. “Each generation wants to pass along this culture we love so much to our next generation. But we also want to share it with anyone else who wants to join in the fun. In Rockford, and in a lot of other cities, the annual parade is one way to do both of those things.” Learn more, register to march in the parade and purchase PaddyFest tickets at IrishMarchingSociety.com. ❚

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Y A C

Car Care is Extra Important in Wintertime By Peggy Werner

ast week was crazy warm, but winter’s not over yet. And a little snow can spell a lot of trouble for drivers, especially those in a hurry to get somewhere. Ken Tomlinson, owner of AutoEnhancers, 515 18th Ave., knows this to be true because he sees the results a day or two later, after accidents have occurred and people bring in their vehicles for repairs. “Weather has to be the biggest contributor to car accidents, especially when it rains or snows unexpectedly,” he says. “People are driving too fast for conditions, are following too closely, and don’t anticipate stopping when they have to. When weather is more severe, people are prepared and plan accordingly.” The condition of tires, shocks and brakes plays an important role in a driver’s ability to stop on time. Winter is no time to go without regular maintenance.

In addition to auto body repair, AutoEnhancers offers a long list of services, such as paint refinishing; detailing; mechanical repair; electrical diagnosis; tire alignments; repair of heating and air-conditioning systems; repair of suspension, brake and exhaust systems; tire repair; glass, and mirror repair; hardware and trim replacement; and all fluid and filter services. In addition, Tomlinson sells some used cars. Last year, the business created a new website and logo, and new signage, while expanding its reach through social media. Ken’s wife, Rhonda, is the office manager. The Tomlinsons say they want to build trusting relationships with people, cater to customer needs and set themselves apart and above the competition.

“No one in Rockford does mechanical and body work in one place,” says Ken. “We want to offer customers a complete line of services for vehicles. There’s nothing we won’t do here and all the work gets done right here at our shop. Nothing is sent out to be completed. We’re trying to build an awareness of all that we do. Even our customers are not aware of the many services we provide, and we’re trying to change that.” Learn more at autoenhancersinc.com or call (815) 961-9465. ❚

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Y H

What to Know About Your Water System By Anna Girgenti

f there’s one thing you shouldn’t have to worry about during the busy summer months, it’s your water. Having clean, accessible water in your home or business involves proper installation and maintenance, according to the experts at Affordable Water, 214 W. Menomonie St., Belvidere. “The biggest mistake people make with their in-home water systems is misapplication of equipment,” says Samantha Strobel, general manager at Affordable Water. Without proper installation, your water system is susceptible to permanent damage. Installing a water treatment system is more complicated than many people think. The slightest mistake may result in hard water, staining or the introduction of bacteria and viruses. Misapplication due to inadequate installation can ruin both the equipment and the water. If you’re

thinking about installing your own water system, you may be putting your system at higher risk of malfunction. Consider calling a professional water company to handle the entire process for you. “We specialize in water purification equipment and chemical-free systems. We also offer a complete lineup of equipment for rental, leasing, residential, commercial accounts and more,” says Stro-

bel. The family-owned business offers more than 35 years of experience, with certified service technicians. “People commonly run into issues with their water softeners when they’re not keeping up with maintenance or when the system isn’t programmed properly,” says Strobel. Some types of water treatment systems need maintenance more often, and some require regular professional maintenance. Your water system will last longer if you rely on a company that can service all your needs. “Affordable Water is an accredited business for the Better Business Bureau,” says Strobel. “Consumers looking to install or repair a home water system should check with the Better Business Bureau to know they’re doing business with a reputable company. ,” says Strobel. Affordable Water is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Call (815) 544-0918 for more information. ❚

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Y S L

Director Values Close Bonds at Crimson Pointe By Peggy Werner

att Hopkins’ desire to care for others has always been a main motivator for choosing a career. So it was no accident that he was promoted to executive director of Crimson Pointe Senior Living, 7130 Crimson Ridge Dr., Rockford, two years ago. As a little boy, he wanted to be a fireman. He served in the U.S. Navy, took courses to become an Emergency Medical Technician and later became a Registered Nurse, working with hospice patients. He discovered an ideal place for himself at Crimson Pointe, one of two Five Star Senior Living communities in in our region. Five Star Senior Living also operates Huntington Place in Janesville, Wis., and more than 270 other senior living communities in 30 states. “I just love taking care of people,” he says. “If you think about it, working

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in emergency medicine or helping someone in their home is all about making things work, whether getting the right equipment in place or making people comfortable in other ways.” Hopkins grew up in Rolling Meadows and moved to Rockford in 1996. He became acquainted with Crimson Pointe while visiting hospice patients in the building. At one point, he learned of an opening for the position of Resident Services Director, which he landed. Next, he became the Interim Director. Three months later, in July 2015, he was hired as Executive Director. Hopkins says he likes Crimson Pointe because of the family atmosphere and close bond he feels among employees and residents.

Feb 22 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Crimson Pointe is an assisted living community for seniors who need some support with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing and mobility. Individualized medication programs are available to meet each resident’s needs. Rehabilitation and respite stays are also available. Learn more at lifeatcrimsonpointe. com or call (815) 398-7792. ❚

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

Real. Original. SM

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

ILLINOIS, USA

glowing in autumn’s glory. Indoors, our concert and theater season will be gaining momentum at Coronado Performing Arts Center, a beautifully restored downtown vaudeville house. Plus, our Riverfront Museum Campus will be coming alive for the whole family. Visit gorockford.com today for a full list of autumn special events, festivals, gardens, golf and more.

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau NWQ_fall.indd 1

102 N. Main St.

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Tourism

Attractions & Events

Synchronized Skating Championships Feb. 23-25. Synchronized skating is a team sport in which 8 to 20 skaters perform a program together. See 1.800.521.0849 96 teams compete. BMO Harris Rockford, IL 61101 gorockford.com Bank Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford, ussnchrochampionships.com. 9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

The Great American Trailer Park Musical Feb. 23-26, Th.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. You'll want to sing along with this naughty, bawdy, mischievous and dysfunctional community. Rockford University, Clark Arts Center, Maddox Theatre, 5050 E. State St., Rockford, rockford.edu. Rockford Home Show Feb. 24-26, Fri. 3-8 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Shop for new products, services, ideas, concepts and expertise on interior and exterior design. Mercyhealth Indoor Sports Center, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, (815) 871-7469, showtimeproduction.net. Gabriel Iglesias Fluffymania Tour Feb. 24, 8 p.m. Gabriel's stand-up comedy is a mixture of storytelling, parodies, characters and sound effects that bring his personal experiences to lfie. Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org. Discovery Engineering Feb. 25, noon-3:30 p.m. What's it like to be an engineer and solve problems? Find out from dozens of engineers from local firms who are setting up shop in Discovery Center spaces to give kids and adults hands-on experiences. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.org. Sports Champions Ball Feb. 25, 5 p.m. social, 6:30 p.m. dinner and Athletic Hall of Fame Inductions. Rockford Public Schools & Rockford Sports Coalition present this year's inductees: Leonard Bell, Roger Lindeman, Carrie Zarse, Diane Peterson, Hal Carlson and the 1992-93 Guilford Boys Basketball Team. Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, 200 S. Bell School Road, Rockford, (815) 966-8960, rps205.com. Brahms & Schumann Classical Concert Feb. 25, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Internationally renowned

Emmy and Tony Award winning actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth performs with the Rockford Symphony Orchestra on March 1.

violinist Ilya Kaler joins his award-winning son Daniel on stage for a Brahms duet. Coronado Performing Arts Center, Rockford, (815) 9650049, rockfordsymphony.com. Past, Present and Future of Housing in Rockford Feb. 26, 2 p.m. Learn how our current situation came to be and how Rockford intends to become a Top 25 community where people want to come and raise a family. Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, (815) 397-9112, midwayvillage.com. Rockford Wind Ensemble Concert Feb. 26, 3 p.m. Local talent performs a concert that's family-friendly and impressive. Nordlof Center, J.R. Sullivan Theater, 118 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 227-8550. rockfordwindensemble.org. Kristin Chenoweth and the RSO March 1, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Emmy and Tony Award winning actress and singer, Kristin Chenoweth, joins the RSO for an unforgettable evening under the stars. Coronado Performing Arts Center, Rockford, (815) 965-0049, rockfordsymphony.com. Irish Marching Society Parade March 11, parade starts 3 p.m. The Irish Marching Society presents its annual St. Patrick's Day Parade with food, drinks and entertainment to follow. Parade begins on 5th Avenue, south of the BMO Harris parking lot. Festivities follow at Prairie Street Brewing Company, 200 Prairie St., Rockford, irishmarchingsociety.com. ❚

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Smart Living Weekly

Feb. 22

WDL

Restaurant of the Week

Authentic Italian Dining at Bravo Pizza W

ith more than 40 years in the restaurant business, Joe Ocello knows how to create an authentic Italian dining experience. Since opening the first Bravo Pizza & Italian Restaurant location in 2001 with wife Francesca, the couple has been refining classic Italian fare with all the comfort and flavors of a home-cooked meal. “We work in quality, price and service – those are our three main ingredients,” says Ocello. “I’ve been in this business for 40 years, so we know how to maintain a consistency for our customers. There’s no price that pays for that.” Bravo Pizza & Italian Restaurant has two locations – one in Poplar Grove, the other in South Beloit – and each provides a genuine escape for patrons. You’ll find large wooden tables, warm golden lighting

and murals of Italian scenery, inspired by Ocello’s Sicilian heritage. Diners can choose from a vast array of Italian classics, from pizza and calzones to pasta and sandwiches. There are American classics, too, such as the Bravo Burger. Most items are made from scratch in the Bravo kitchen, ensuring a home- Managers Richard Owens and Heather Intravaia with Joe Ocello. made meal with fresh ingredients. The Ital- they’re huge, too,” says Ocello. “'Bravo' in ian beef, served au jus or with tomato meat Italian means good, and I think we are very sauce, was named Best in the Stateline good. We have a menu we’ve been perfectby MyStateline.com in 2013. Top sellers ing for forever, so we know how to do it include Italian meatball sandwiches, fettuc- well.” cine Alfredo and fish specials. Both locations offer a full-service bar, “We make it all ourselves. Each meat- catering, carry-out and delivery services. ball is about a quarter pound apiece, so Bravo Pizza is open daily at 11 a.m. ❚

In the Spotlight

Top Picks for Local Restaurants 9 East Coffee E Casual/Coffeehouse. Specialty coffees, pas- sandwiches, desserts. 33 Executive Parkwy., Rockford, (815) tries, breakfast, lunch. 9 E. Stephenson St., Freeport, (815) 398-5700. LD Sun-Th 11 am-10 pm, F-Sat to 11 pm. 233-7300, BkL M-F 7am-3pm, Sat 7am-2pm. $ Giovanni’s/Big Al’s Bar/Alchemy E Upscale-casual/AmeriArturo’s Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Authentic Mexican. 107 can. Three dining rooms. 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford. W. Main St., Poplar Grove, Ill., (815) 765-1144. LD M 11am-8pm; (815) 398-6411. LD M-Th 11a.m.-10 pm, F to 11 pm, Sat 3-11 pm. Live entertainment, open late. $-$$. T-Th to 9pm; F to 10pm; Sun noon-8pm. $. Bravo Pizza E Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, South Be- GreenFire EUpscale-Casual/American contemporary. Sealoit, Ill., (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $. sonal cuisine; local-sourced ingredients; gourmet market; live entertainment. 6795 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, (815) Cannova’s Italian Cuisine E Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., Free316-3473. BkLD M-F 11am; Sat-Sun 8 am. Bar open late. $$. port, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. $-$$. Local Dough Cafe E Restaurant/cafe. Baked goods, breakCosta’s Ristorante E Upscale-Casual/Italian. 133 Blackhawk fast, lunch, dinner, beer, wine. 202 W. Main St., Rockton, Dr., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. LD Daily 4pm. $-$$. (815) 957-0584. BkLD W-Sun 7 am-6 pm. $. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit ECasual/BBQ. 845 S. Perryville Road, Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint E Fine Dining. Ironworks Rockford, (815) 599-1110. LD Daily 11 a.m.-9 p.m. $-$$. Hotel, 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, (608) 313-0700. D Sun-Th Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Mexican. Authen- 4:30-9pm, Fri-Sat to 10pm. $$. tic dishes, lunch menu. 5855 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 227Prairie Street Brewhouse E Upscale-Casual/American. 200 4979. L D Sun-Th 11 a.m.-10 p.m., F-Sat to 10:30 p.m. $-$$. Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Franchesco’s Ristorante E Upscale/Italian-American. Som- Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$. melier, live entertainment. 7128 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, Thrive Café E Casual/Cafe. Salads, wraps, sandwiches, (815) 229-0800. LD Sun-Th 4-9pm, F-Sat to 10pm. $$ smoothies, cold-pressed juices. Inside Peak Fitness, 4401 Peak Fresco at the Gardens. E Casual/American Café. Fresh, local- Drive, Loves Park, Ill. BkLD M-F 6am-8pm, Sat 8am-2pm. sourced ingredients. 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) Vito’s Ristorante E Casual/Fine Dining. Carry-out, steak & 316-2256 BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$ seafood, Italian specialties, pizza. 4866 Bluestem Road, RosGiordano’s E Casual/Italian. Stuffed pizza, salads, entrees, coe, Ill. (815) 312-5080. D Mon.-Sat. 4 p.m.-close. $-$$.. ❚ 28

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Feb 22 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Arturo’s

rturo’s at 107 W. Main St., Poplar Grove, Ill., is run by Arturo Torres, who learned to cook authentic Mexican food in Guadalajara, Mexico. He uses only fresh, from-scratch ingredients. Fan favorites include tacos, fajitas, 10 Finger Burritos and enchilada dinners. American dishes include steaks, burgers, chicken wings and seafood plates. There’s also an expanding selection of domestic and imported beers, and, of course, the house margarita. Breakfast is served Saturdays and Sundays, starting at 7 a.m., with 12 to 15 authentic Mexican options like huevos rancheros, chilaquiles, juevos tirados and huevos con chorizos, along with American fare. Arturo’s expects to open a rooftop beer garden by the end of 2017. Hours: Mon.-Thu. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri.Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and Sun. 12 p.m.-8 p.m. ❚

(Blake Nunes photo)

By Sarah Soenke

SLW Dish of the Week Name of Plate: Enchiladas Mexicanas Restaurant: Dos Reales, 5855 E. State St., Rockford Description: This typical Mexican dish comes with three enchiladas of the customer choice – ground beef, shredded chicken or shredded beef – with gluten-free tortillas that are fried in vegetable oil. The plate also comes with rice, beans, lettuce, sour cream and guacamole. “It’s a wonderful plate,” says Jose Gonzalez, manager. “Of the entire menu, this is one of the most requested dishes.” Why does this dish stand out? “Enchiladas are one of the most known dishes from Mexican cuisine,” Gonzalez says. “In Mexico, they make enchiladas spicy, but we take the spice out because we know most of our customers want something milder in taste. A Mexican customer might add hot sauce to it. The dish also has a good portion size. There’s enough to ﬁll you up.”

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Feb 22 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Y T

Reduce the Cost of Monthly Tech Bills By Peggy Werner

hile thinking about all the money you have to spend this holiday season, why not also think about ways to save money on your monthly tech bills? EZ Satellite & Wireless, 6239 N. 2nd St., Suite B, in Loves Park, can help with that. “People are paying too much for phone, internet, and television services by using just one company,” says Charles Zambrano, owner. “You don’t have to choose just one company to save money. People get excited when they see promotions because they’re just looking at the price, which will jump up dramatically after the special offer ends. Plus, they don’t always know exactly what they’re getting – and what you don’t know can hurt you.” When you purchase TV and internet service through EZ Satellite & Wireless, you’ll get a $100 gift card when you share the news with someone else.

EZ Satellite & Wireless is an authorized dish network retailer and also is licensed to offer services from any other provider using dish, cable, internet and home security, such as Comcast, Frontier, HughesNet, DishNet, DirectTV, Digitenna, and Vivint. The company offers the highly rated Protect America home security service for $19.95 per month. EZ Satellite specializes in helping people make the right choices based on what they need and where they live, so they can save money. The family-owned business opened in 2011, in Roscoe, and moved to a larger, more visible location in Loves Park last May, adding a new bill-paying center for customer convenience. EZ Satellite & Wireless is a full service retailer for satellite TV and internet, and can also help people to acquire cable services. About 80 percent of his business is working with residential customers in Southern

Wisconsin and Northern Illinois. The company also works with businesses. After working for many years as a satellite dish installer for one of the local providers, Zambrano decided to go out on his own to be more in control of his life and to help others do the same. “I love to see people’s faces when they find out how much money they can save,” he says. For more information, contact EZ Satellite & Wireless at (815) 957-4335 or stop by the office. ❚

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Feb 22 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Y M

‘Kindness: Pass it On,’ says Local Credit Union

By Peggy Werner

t’s been said that a little kindness goes a long way. Enriching the community with one act of kindness at a time is the idea behind Partners in Kind, a program started by MembersAlliance Credit Union, 2550 S. Alpine Road, Rockford. At random times, Diane James, director of business development for MembersAlliance, goes to coffee shops, other local businesses and community events to engage with people and treat them with complimentary food or drinks, encouraging the recipients to pass it on. “It’s all about doing something kind and hoping others will be inspired to do something for someone else,” saus Cheryl Sio, president of MembersAlliance. “Part of our company philosophy is to have a positive influence in our community.”

At one networking event, Sio talked about Partners in Kind with the objective of encouraging community partners to do similar projects. One woman at the event works for the Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois and decided to bring some Girl Scouts to one of the credit union branches to pass out boxes of Girl Scout cookies. “It’s just a pleasant way to connect with people,” she says. “Most people are surprised, enjoy the visit, and say they will try to do something for someone,” she says. With all the emphasis on making Rockford a better city through the revital-

ization of downtown Rockford and the efforts of Transform Rockford, it’s just one more way to encourage positive change, she says. “We’re so excited about what’s happening in our community and we choose to look forward with a positive attitude, knowing things don’t change overnight, but they are definitely headed in the right direction,” Sio says. MembersAlliance has a branch location at 6951 Olde Creek Road and inside the Wal-Mart Supercenters on West Riverside Boulevard, Walton Street and Rockton Road in Rockton. ❚

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Feb 22 To advertise call 815-316-2300

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