Smart Living Weekly - October 14, 2015 by Northwest Quarterly Mag

S in av rty tS e Ge rop lP Al

n iving g Sm mart a r t L ivi ivin ng Weekly S

@ es 30 w ic ge No rv pa e gs

Save Smarter • Live Better • Rockford Region/Freeport 95¢ • Oct. 14, 2015

™

Right in Our Region

RSO, Cirque Team Up to Dazzle By Sarah Soenke, deputy editor

n Oct. 24, the Coronado Performing Arts Center will host a multi-sensory experience unlike any other, when the Cirque de la Symphonie presents stunning choreography in conjunction with music performed by the Rock-

ford Symphony Orchestra. The dramatic lighting, colorful costumes and spectacular physical stunts will make this one-night-only show a oneof-a-kind event. Continued on p. 20

• Get All the SAVINGS You Deserve from Local Businesses

Take Control of Acne • Let’s Talk About Money • Dining at The Olympic Make-Your-Own Halloween Treats • What is Speech Therapy? • Rockford’s New Home Lighting Center

Smart Living Weekly

Issue 1

Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 20 Cirque de la Symphonie at RSO Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 New Home Lighting Center! Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Who was Jacob? Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Make Healthful Halloween Treats Your Outings ......................................................17 Students Head for Yellowstone Park Your Health ............................................. .......... 25 What is Speech Therapy? Your Health ............................................. .......... 26 Taking Control of Acne Your Fun ................................................... ......... 27 Restaurant of the Week ................................... 29 Olympic Tavern Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 29 Tips ........................................................... ......... 31 Worthwhile Home Fixes Your Money .............................................. ......... 33 Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Talk About Money

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 Rachel Shore, Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes General Manager/Northwest Business Magazine Dave Marino Account Executives Brian Hughes, Kimberly Perkins 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

Oct. 14

The Big One I

t’s the season of scary Halloween movies, but I know a better way to frighten folks: Casually mention “Three months from today, Christmas 2015 will be a distant memory.” I did this at a recent family gathering and unleashed sheer terror. As we sat on the sun-splashed deck, all three of my brothers whipped out their phones and checked i-calendars to see if little sister could possibly be right. Plaintive grumbling followed. “It’s 75 degrees out and I’m wearing shorts. How can that be?” As I write, the mother-lode holiday is just 10 Fridays away. If you’re thinking, “Big deal, that’s a long time from now,” you’re probably either A.) a small child or B.) a married male. You’re certainly not a retailer or the family matriarch scribbling out a “Holiday To Do List” that rivals the Collected Works of Tolstoy in size. My list starts with “Start the never-ending string of emails about dates, times, places and who brings the lemon-carrot Jello salad.” Then it’s “Get lights on trees before frigid weather!” I always intend to finish my list early. I envision calmly sitting by the fire in my spotless, festively decorated house on Dec. 20, carols playing on the Bose. I’m sipping mulled wine and my Bible is open to the Christmas Story. Presents are stacked neatly beneath the tree, meal preps are stacked neatly in the freezer, cookies are piled neatly on a Royal Doulton holiday plate, and I’m reading pleasant responses to the neatly written Christmas cards I mailed the day after Thanksgiving. In reality, I don’t have that much “neatly” in me and never will. By Dec. 20, my power shopping will have morphed to panic shopping and I’ll be scolding myself for letting Christmas sneak up on me – again. So, if you’re like me, consider yourself warned: as Fred Sandford used to say, “The Big One is coming, Elizabeth!” Consider getting some of that shopping out of the way early – at locally owned stores, of course. Enjoy the journey! ❚

Fall in Love!w online • social • mobile • local

5 convenient locations in Rockford/Rockton Celebrating International Credit Union Day October 15, 2015! Your deposits are insured to $250,000 per account. This institution is not federally insured.

Janine Pumilia Executive Editor

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Get In Quicker Convenient Care and Emergency Department Scheduling

RHSInQuicker.org

GO TO:

You can reserve your spot at one of four Convenient Care locations or the Rockford Memorial Hospital Emergency Department.  Fill out the online form.  Wait in the comfort of your home.  Arrive at your projected treatment time.

ROCKFORD HEALTH PHYSICIANS CONVENIENT CARE Rockford – 3401 N. Perryville Road M-F: 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. • Sat-Sun: Noon to 8 p.m. Rockford – 2300 N. Rockton Avenue M-F: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. • Sat: 8 a.m. to noon

Belvidere – 1747 Henry Luckow Lane M-F: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. • Sat: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Roscoe – 5000 Prairie Rose Drive M-Th: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. • Sun: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

EMERGENCY CARE - 24/7 Rockford Memorial Hospital Emergency Department • 2400 N. Rockton Avenue

If you have a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Y H  G

Lighting Gallery Offers ‘Jewelry for the Home’ By Lindsey Gapen

roper lighting plays an important role in the aesthetics of a home. In fact, lighting department manager Michael McGinty from Benson Stone Co., 1100 Eleventh St., Rockford, refers to lighting as “jewelry for the home.” “You can spend a lot of money on paint, flooring, cabinets and furniture, but if your home is poorly lit, it will never look its best,” McGinty says. “Proper lighting is essential for a beautiful and functional home.” Staff members at Benson Stone Co. will be able to assist you in picking out the proper lighting for your home. The expansive new lighting department on the fourth floor showcases chandeliers, pendant lights, wall sconces, floor lamps, outdoor fixtures, landscape lighting and more. There’s a lighting style for everyone, from traditional to contemporary.

“Crystal is making a big comeback,” McGinty says. “It’s not your grandmother’s crystal chandelier anymore – we’re seeing a lot of contemporary pieces that I’ll call ‘lightly dressed.’ It’s not a heavy crystal piece, but it has a little accent of crystal on it.” But it’s not the only trend. “On the opposite side of the spectrum, people are choosing the reclaimed urban-warehouse style,” says store owner Andy Benson. “You’ll see a lot of these Edison-style bulbs for a more industrial look.” Benson Stone Co.’s showroom is organized around the style and finish of the fixture. Lights of all sizes and price ranges are available. “Customers have a lot of options here,” Benson says. “I think this showroom helps to emphasize, more than ever

before, that we are a one-stop shop. You can discover a full breadth of products here. It’s convenient to be able to find the right lighting to go with your new kitchen, sofa or dining room table all right here in one store.” ❚

Get SLW Home & Garden articles every week. Visit NWQSmartLiving. com and start your e-Edition today.

DON’T MISS THIS CRUCIAL PLAY… GET YOUR FURNACE TUNED UP!

$79 FURNACE

TUNE-UP

NORMALLY $99

OFFER EXPIRES 12/1/15 OFFER CODE: SMLW

815-398-8312

PEARSONGUY.COM Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Y H  G

Lighting Gallery Offers ‘Jewelry for the Home’ By Lindsey Gapen

Get SLW Home & Garden articles every week. Visit NWQSmartLiving. com and start your e-Edition today.

DON’T MISS THIS CRUCIAL PLAY… GET YOUR FURNACE TUNED UP!

$79 FURNACE

TUNE-UP

NORMALLY $99

OFFER EXPIRES 12/1/15 OFFER CODE: SMLW

815-398-8312

PEARSONGUY.COM Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

I  W

Who Was Jacob? Scriptures: Genesis chapters 25-49.

early a quarter of the book of Genesis concerns Jacob (“deceiver”), who God renames Israel (“wrestles with God.”) The grandson of Abraham & Sarah, and the son of Isaac & Rebekah, Jacob fathered 12 sons whose offspring formed the 12 tribes of the nation of Israel. Jacob was the second-born twin of Esau and was favored by his mother; his dad favored Esau. Under Rebekah’s guidance, Jacob tricked his way into receiving Esau’s larger inheritance. It was one of many times he would be the instigator or victim of deception. Fearing Esau’s rage, Jacob fled to Uncle Laben’s house at Haran. Along the way, God renewed His promise of divine protection to Jacob during a dream. Reaching Laben’s home, Jacob fell deeply in love with his cousin, Rachel. In exchange for the right to marry her, he worked seven years for Laben, skillfully managing his flocks. Those years “seemed but a few days because of the love he had for her.” (Gen. 29:20) At the wedding, however, Laben dupes Jacob by substituting elder daughter Leah as the bride. A week later, Jacob also weds Rachel, after agreeing to work seven more years. Many years and 11 sons later, Jacob strikes a deal with Laben before moving his large family and flocks back home to Hebron. Before making peace with Esau and settling into life as a herdsman in his ancestral home, however, Jacob is engaged in a night-long struggle with an angel near the river Jabbok, after sending his party ahead. He is transformed for the better by the encounter and says “I have seen God face to face and my life is preserved.” Afterward, God changes Jacob’s name to “Israel,” which means “wrestles with God.” Much more happens, including the rape of his daughter Dinah and the death of his beloved Rachel in childbirth as her second son Benjamin (Jacob’s 12th) is born. Jacob is a flawed man but he sincerely honors God; God keeps His promise by continuing the lineage through Jacob’s sons that will result in the eventual birth of the Messiah, Jesus. ❚ This is the fourth in a series about major figures of the Bible. To receive a free, weekly digital version of Smart Living Weekly, sign up at NWQSmartLiving.com. 12

Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Y K

Homemade Alternatives to Halloween Candy P rocessed, sugar-packed candies are collected door-todoor every year at Halloween. This year, try a different angle with homemade sweet treats that you can make with your kids for Halloween. Chef Claire Menck from The Art Institute of Wisconsin loves making ghostly "gorp" wrapped in white parchment paper with her two children. "Gorp is basically granola mixed with your child's favorite treats like chocolate candies, peanut butter chips, pretzels, gummy bears, etc.," she says. To make the granola, toss oatmeal with your choice of spices, honey and oil. Lay mixture on a cookie sheet and toast on the lowest heat possible (usually 150 or 200 F). You can add sugar to the granola, but be careful to not add too much, as it can make it hard. Parents can also substitute the sugar with agave or maple syrup. Mix the granola with the tasty treats. Take white parchment paper and draw two eyes. Place a scoop of the gorp into the opposite side of the paper and tie up top for spooky gorp. Another of Chef Menck's favorite treats is dried fruit roll-ups wrapped to look like candy. She recommends using local, seasonal fruit. "We always go apple-picking in the fall and come back with more than we need; and so we create dried apple treats." Cut and peel the apples or fruit of your choice into halfinch slices. Then mix with spices of your choosing, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, etc. "Make it a tactile experience for your kids and allow them to mix all the ingredients together, maybe even with their hands," she says. Lay the apples on an oiled cookie sheet, turn your oven on to the lowest setting and slow bake until dehydrated (about 45 to 90 minutes, depending on preference). Take colorful tissue paper or Halloween-themed paper and place under parchment paper. Once the fruit is dehydrated, place a small amount of the fruit on a 4-by4-inch parchment paper. Then roll and twist the ends to look like a candy wrap-

per and tie the ends. You can also use dehydrated berries like cranberries for the fruit roll-up candy. "For a creepier spin on your Halloween treats, I recommend trufﬂe eyeballs to liven up a kids' party," says the chef. All you need is 8 ounces of semisweet chocolate, 1/2 cup of heavy whip-

ping cream and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Heat the cream, pour over the chocolate, and whisk in the butter until nice and smooth. Pour the mixture in a pan and chill for 2 hours, or overnight -just long enough to ﬁrm it. You can ﬂavor with anything like vanilla, peanut butter or fruit puree. Then take an ice cream scoop or have the kids help by rolling the mixture into small balls with their hands; roll the balls in powdered sugar. Top off with a chocolate candy and then take red, edible writing gel to make squiggly lines. ❚ (Source: BPT) Get SLW Kitchen articles every week. Visit NWQSmartLiving.com and start your E-Edition today.

Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Experience Downtown Rockford

Y O

Yellowstone Adventure Awaits Students A

dventure Safari Network Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting youth to the outdoors with meaningful educational experiences, announces its inaugural 10-day Yellowstone Adventure for high school students, at a cost of $300 per student. The Foundation focuses on environmental, leadership, and photographic educational opportunities in the natural environment. In conjunction with the Yellowstone Foundation and other partners, Adventure Safari has planned a unique opportunity for 45 high school students who have completed grades 8-12 to experience America’s first national park. From June 20-30, 2016, participants will travel via motor coach from Rockford. The trip will include visits to Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse and Grand Teton National Park. “The National Park Service will be celebrating its 100th Anniversary in 2016,” says Gary Gullett, president of

Adventure Safari Network. “In celebration of this milestone, the selected students will be able to experience firsthand the spectacular scenery and wildlife of Yellowstone National Park. The 10-day adventure will give students the opportunity to not only see these magnificent places, but also to participate in worldclass leadership training, environmental education and photography workshops.” While on the trip, students can print their photos daily and add them to their own personalized journals. Each student also will participate in a service day, while in Yellowstone. The Adventure Safari Network is geared toward getting students behind the scenes and having hands-on experiences. The trip promises to be a life-changing experience for the students who are selected. Students can apply online by going to AdventureSafariNetwork.com and clicking on “foundation.” They are asked to write an essay, submit three letters of recommendation and be interviewed.

More information is available on the website or by calling Adventure Safari Network at (312) 470-6704. Early submissions are recommended, as it will be a rolling enrollment process. Applications will close when all spots are filled. Cost of the program is $300 per student. The remainder of all program expenses is supported by monetary donations from individuals and corporate sponsorships. Donations are still needed; learn more at AdventureSafariNetwork. com/Foundation.asp. ❚

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

FALL

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

into Savings! Prices valid through 10/21/15

709

Manchester Queen Bed

Handmade in the USA in your choice of 5 wood species and over 30 finishes

179 FREE 298 Buy a Queen for

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

FREE BOXSPRING SALE

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

Buy a King for

receive a

FREE boxspring receive

boxsprings

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

FALL

Open 24 hours on the web

Find us on Facebook

into Savings!

Prices valid through 10/21/15

298

Rocker Recliner

Dillon Sectional. Was $6299

Dining Set Table/4 Chairs

3999

GUSTAFSON'S FURNITURE & MATTRESS

495

RECLINERS:

LIVING ROOM:

WOOD PRODUCTS:

ASHLEY OTTOMAN 8670208 WAS 329 NOW 199

2232 BIG MAN SOUTHERN MOTION: WAS 859 NOW 299

ENGLAND LOVESEAT 6206AL WAS 1919 NOW 750

BASSETT COCKTAIL TABLE 6767-0613 WAS 699 NOW 299

LIVING ROOM:

Coaster 203260 Set Queen Bed, Dresser, Mirror

1838 PWR SOUTHERN MOTION: WAS 789 NOW 275

PWR 9MP87-1 BEST CHAIR WAS 869 NOW 299

1599

NOW

BROYHILL 4231 SECTIONAL WAS 2029 NOW 1699 ENGLAND 1Z06 4PC (SOFA, LS, CHAIR, OTTOMAN) WAS 2950 NOW 1450

HGTV 2542-52 STUDIO SOFA WAS 1369 NOW 550

ASHLEY T600-13 ENDTABLES(PAIR) WAS 750 NOW 315

CHAIRS:

BASSETT DRESSER/MIRROR 2767-0242/0237 WAS 1869 NOW 899

KINCAID CHAIR 167-84 WAS 959 NOW 350

ASHLEY T720 COCKTAIL TABLE W/1 END TABLE NOW 399

BASSETT CHAIR 3977-12FC WAS 799 NOW 399

ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T165-13 WAS 299 NOW 199 BROYHILL SOFA TABLE 4812-009 WAS 549 NOW 299

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

Albany 2 PC Sectional

Available in Grey, Red, Brown & Black

959

North Main

Gu sta fson 's

I-90

Rock River

Riverside Blvd

Furniture

Bypass 20

ULTRA COMFORT

LIFT CHAIR

588

POWER BEDS TWINS STARTING AT

899

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

R  O R

RSO Cirque Continued from Cover

“It’ll be an incredible overall experience,” says Julie Thomas, executive director for the orchestra. “There’ll be gorgeous Romantic music enhanced by the visual element of beautiful colors and costumes. It’ll be very exciting.” The night’s ﬁve Cirque artists are

Smart Living Weekly

some of the world’s leading cirque performers; they’re aerial ﬂyers, acrobats, contortionists, dancers, jugglers, balancers and strongmen. Through incredible precision, timing and strength, their daredevil maneuvers will enrich the symphony experience for regulars and non-regulars alike. RSO music director Steven Larsen’s program selections are designed to fully engage the audience in new ways while bringing these pieces to life. “They’re going to be doing some of these acts aerially on red silk ribbons right above the orchestra and some out on stage in front of the orchestra, so they’ll be very close to the audience and the musicians,” says Thomas. “This show was created for a performing arts center like the Coronado Theatre. It will be unlike anything I think most of us have ever seen.” As the opening concert for the symphony season’s Pops Series, the performance will feature popular classical pieces to be visually redeﬁned by the cirque

Oct. 14

artists. From the traditional Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “Valse” from “Sleeping Beauty,” to the more modern John Williams’ “Flight to Neverland” from “Hook,” the night’s songs are meant to be familiar to multiple generations. While Cirque de la Symphonie performs across the country at different venues, each show is a unique creation between the performers and the maestro’s direction. The RSO’s concert is set to include juggling, illusion, contortion, dance, a spinning cube, aerial straps, electric juggling, a cyr wheel and aerial duo performances. The cirque’s elegant adaptations of some of the most challenging physical feats for the stage will then pair the magic of cirque in real time with the magic of the symphony. “It’s cirque acts choreographed to classical music, but it’s very recognizable orchestral works,” says Thomas. “I think it’ll be very captivating with the visual element and will really hold the audience’s interests.”

R  O R

The Rockford Symphony Orchestra is also introducing a new event for the special performance. Starting at 6 p.m. before the show’s 7:30 p.m. start, a Cirque Pre-Show Party will allow guests to meet some of the night’s performers and enjoy refreshments before taking their seats for showtime.

“That will be a behind-the-scenes type of party, in the second ﬂoor rehearsal room in the Coronado Theatre, which is not a public space that many people get to go to,” says Thomas. “Two of the performers will join the party and do some acts, and attendees will get to mingle with some of the people who will be out on stage.” Around only 100 concert-goers will be able to purchase tickets for the pre-show party, and the event is meant for attendees 21 and older. The $45 tickets include cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a chance to be part of the evening’s performance. “There will be an opportunity to win a chance to go on stage as part of the per-

formance in a special walk-on role,” says Thomas. “Only the people at the party will be able to participate.” From the pre-show party to the concert itself, the RSO’s Cirque de la Symphonie is meant to create a unique performing arts experience for audience members, from ﬁrst-time concertgoers to season ticket holders. It will be a rare opportunity to witness a unique artistic hybrid of the aural elegance of orchestral music with gravity-defying visual cirque acts conveniently right in the Rockford region. “This is really unusual for us,” says Thomas. “The other orchestras that we’ve talked to that have done this program have all sold out. One of them even said to me that they wish they had done two shows.” Tickets for the show range from $7 to $65 and can be purchased in advance or at the door while still available. For more information and to purchase tickets online, visit rockfordsymphony.com. ❚

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Y H

FHN Rehab: Just What Is Speech Therapy? P

We’re h ere , for you.

hysical therapy (PT), occupational therapy (OT), and speech therapy are very broad fields within healthcare, but all focus on returning patients to full function, ideally pain-free and without limitation. Speech therapists evaluate and treat communication disorders as well as problems with swallowing. These disorders can be the result of injury or illness such as stroke or Alzheimer’s disease; birth defects or genetic complications including Down syndrome and autism; developmental delays; conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or deafness; or learning difficulties like dyslexia. Speech therapists often work with other healthcare providers to ensure a comprehensive approach to their patients’ treatment, including neurologists, behavioral health providers, and other specialty providers such as physical and occupational therapists. While PT is used for rehabilitation following a traumatic event such as stroke, surgery or accident, it also offers effective nonsurgical, drug-free options for conditions ranging from back pain and muscle tears to osteoarthritis and cerebral palsy or multiple sclerosis. OT is different. An occupational therapist helps people of all ages to deal with limitations associated with chronic conditions like Parkinson’s or cerebral palsy, that won’t change markedly over time, as well as assist in adapting their actual tasks and environments to their limitations.

“We work to understand what’s important to the patient, not just to ensure that they can manage their regular everyday activities, but also to get them back to the things they enjoy,” says Karen Christen, PT and director of FHN Rehabilitation Services, Occupational Health, Pain Clinic and Orthopedic Service Line. The Rehabilitation Services team at FHN, more than 40 people strong, was recently joined by Northern Illinois Physical Therapy. Specialty services include aquatherapy, lymphedema care, functional capacity evaluations, work conditioning, targeted soft-tissue treatment that stimulates the body’s healing response (ASTYM), pelvic health therapy (including treatment for incontinence and similar conditions), and athletic training. For more information or to arrange treatment, visit fhn.org or call (877)-600-0345, ext. 940. ❚ Source: FHN

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

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

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

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

as high or higher as

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

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

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

* Within a 50-mile radius of Freeport

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Y H

Acne Control Begins with Skin Care Routine By Lindsey Gapen

hen it comes to self-esteem, acne can play a major role. Dr. Mona Gandhi, now scheduling appointments at Kovak Dermatology and Laser Institute, 195 Buckley Drive, Rockford, knows that managing breakouts can impact overall confidence levels. “I’ve noticed that acne doesn’t know age,” Gandhi says. “A lot of teens break out because of hormonal imbalances, stress, genetics and other factors, but women and men experience acne as well. I’m here to help patients take control of acne, because it does affect your confidence. We also want to make sure that acne doesn’t lead to permanent scarring and further treatments down the road.” Having a skin care routine is the most important line of defense against future breakouts, Gandhi says. Teens especially should develop a daily regimen of washing their faces. Depending on acne severity, other options such as topical ointments, oral antibiotics and laser treatments are available. “I ultimately see the best results when I use laser treatments in combination with a medical regimen,” Gandhi says. “But even then, you still have to wash your face. Sticking to a consistent routine will yield optimal results.”

Gandhi says this is an area where teens often falter, as they may not be used to the consistency of skin care. “A lot of teens usually don’t have their routine down, and they might not necessarily realize the importance of washing their face,” Gandhi says. “That’s why I stress to patients that I’m here to guide them, but it’s ultimately up to them to do the work. The sooner I start treating you, and the sooner you pick up the routine, the sooner we can efficiently manage your acne.” ❚

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Y F

Women’s Art Board Luncheon: Barbara Rinella Oct. 14, 11 a.m. This popular fundraising luncheon features an entertaining performance by Barbara Rinella who brings to life personas from current bestselling books. Silent auction, raffle, gift shop. $45. Proceeds support Rockford Art Museum (RAM), 711 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-2787, rockfordartmuseum.org. The Four Seasons of the Gardens Oct. 15, 7-8 p.m. John Powell on the famed Adachi Museum of Art located in Yasugi, Japan. $5/members free. Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford, (815) 229-9390, andersongardens.org. 28th Annual Autumn Drive Oct. 16-18, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tractor rides, petting zoos, hay rides, apple and pumpkin picking, craft vendors, more. 16105 Garden Valley Road, Woodstock, Ill., autumndrive.net. Giordano Dance Company Oct. 17, 7:30 p.m. America’s original jazz dance company will perform a wide-range of dance styles from its critically-acclaimed repertoire. Coronado Performing Arts Center, (815) 9680595, coronadopac.org. Music on Main: Mark Baldin, Trumpet Oct. 19, 5:30 p.m. Experience beautiful music, mingle with the artists, enjoy a glass of wine and light refreshments and have fun with your friends. Emerson House, Rockford, (815) 9642238, mendelssohnpac.org. The Illusionist – Live from Broadway Oct. 20, 5:30 p.m. This mind blowing spectacular showcases the jaw dropping talents of the most incredible illusionists on earth. Witness a powerful mix of the most outrageous and astonishing acts ever to be seen on stage. Coronado Performing Arts Center, (815) 9680595, coronadopac.org. Scorpion Dissection Oct. 22, 7-8:30 p.m. Dissect a creepy-crawly. $18/$12 members. Midwest Museum of Natural History (MMNH), 425 W. State St., Sycamore, Ill. (815) 895-9777, mmnh.org. Night Sounds Oct. 23, 6-8:30 p.m. Trick-or-Treat your way through Burpee Museum of Natural History wearing a costume. Ages three and up. Burpee Tell them you saw it in ...

Enjoy pumpkin picking at the 28th annual Autumn Drive on Oct. 16-18 in Woodstock, Ill.

Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 965-3443. Discover the Spirits Oct. 23, 7:30-10:30 p.m. Enjoy science demonstrations, a slient auction, free caricatures and psychic readings, live music and tasty tidbits. Must be 21+. $45. Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 9636769, discoverycentermuseum.org. 4th Annual Nik’s Home Run Oct. 24, 8 a.m. registration. Participate in a 7k race, 1.5 mile fun walk and silent auction. Rockford Aviators Stadium, 4503 Interstate Blvd., Loves Park, Ill., nikolasritschelfoudation. org. Robin Hood’s Enchanted Woods Oct. 24, 2-8 p.m. Trick-or-treating through the Victorian Village, crafts, games. Tour scenes and meet characters from Robin Hood. $6/ members free. Midway Village Museum, Rockford, (815) 397-9112, midwayvillage.com. RSO: Cirque de la Symphonie Oct. 24, 7:30 p.m. The RSO Pops Season begins with this exciting production of amazing acrobats, aerial flyers, dancers and jugglers beautifully choreographed to classical masterpieces and popular contemporary music performed by the RSO. Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org. Nancy Kerrigan’s Halloween on Ice Oct. 25, 5 p.m. One of the longest running shows in all of figure skating, a new story with a star studded cast of Olympic, World and U.S. National medalists will help celebrate Halloween. BMO Harris Bank Center, (815) 968-5222, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com. ❚

Smart Living Weekly

October 14

Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

WDL

Restaurant of the Week

Olympic Tavern Keeps Customers Happy By Peggy Werner

he Olympic Tavern, 2327 N. Main St., has been a familyowned Rockford icon for 70 years, always changing with the times and giving customers what they want. The business has come a long way from the days when Anthony Rotello opened a little place where factory workers could get a burger and beer on the corner of Main and Fulton. When Anthony’s son, Tom, took over the business, in the 1990s, he fulfilled his vision of a full-service restaurant, three times larger, with a fireplace and lots of atmosphere. Zak, the third generation of Rotellos to work in the restaurant, is beer director and an authority on craft beers.The beer menu changes daily, and lists 28 draft beers in order from lightest to darkest, with a description of the style, alcohol content and price. Daily specials are seasonal items not on the menu, ranging in price from $14 to $19. Monday night is always burger night, with a half-pound burger and fries for $5 (no carry outs). The $12 Friday night fish fry includes cod with all the trimmings. The patio, which seats 80 and is open seasonally,

Top Picks for Local Restaurants 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. $-$$. Giordano’s Famous Stuffed Pizza E Casual/Italian. Pick-up/ delivery. 333 Executive Pkwy., Rockford, Ill. (815) 398-5700. LD Sun-Th 9am-11p.m; F-Sat to midnight. $. JMK Nippon Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar E UpscaleCasual. Food cooked tableside. 2551 N. Perryville, Rockford, (815) 877-0505. L T-F 11:30am-2pm, Sat 2:30pm; D M-Th 5-9:30pm, F-Sat 10:30pm, Sun 4:30-9:30pm. $$. Main Street Bistro E Upscale-Casual/Fine dining. Th&Sat.

just got all new furniture from Village Green. The Olympic remodeled, updated and expanded its bar about three years ago. Although the business climate has changed, neighborhood and other local people still support The Olympic. “The public makes us who we are. We are the livZak Rotello ing room of the neighborhood – a place where people can stop between work and home – and we’ll do the dishes for you,” he says. Zak has a good role model in his father, who still works every day. “He taught me not to settle for second best and to always strive to be the best I can be,” he says. “Our business is about hospitality and making people feel welcomed, whether it’s greeting customers with a smile or doing something special for them on birthdays and anniversaries. We’re just one of a very few places that has called Rockford home for this long.” ❚

In the Spotlight 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. $-$$. Sisters Thai Café E Casual/Thai-Laotian. Authentic cuisine. In Clock Tower Resort, 7801 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 2294545. L M-Sat 11am-2:30pm; D Sun-Th 5-9pm, Sat 10pm. $. Tavern on Clark E Casual/American. 755 Clark Ave., Rockford, (815) 708-7088. LD daily 10am. $-$$. 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. $$. ❚

Cannova’s

annova’s has been serving up authentic Italian dishes and pizza since Anthony and Philippina Cannova started the restaurant 1921. Today, their granddaughter, Linda, and her husband, Patrick Beckman, carry on the tradition, at 1101 W. Empire St. They use many original recipes for pizza, spaghetti sauce, Italian beef, fresh bread and pizza dough. House specials include a Sicilian ﬁlet, marinated in olive oil and red wine; Italian-style baked cod; and seafood Alfredo. Linda’s made-from-scratch desserts include tiramisu, cheesecake and chocolate spoon cake. Then there are the award-winning pizzas: the Classic; the New York; the double-crusted Gloria Read, named for a longtime customer; and the Sicilian. Cannova’s is open Sun.-Tues. 5-10 p.m. and Fri.-Sat. until 11 p.m. ❚

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

T  I

Selling Your Home

Worthwhile Fixes

ost buyers today are interested in homes that are “move-in ready.” If you’re selling your home, what projects are most worthwhile? • Addressing major maintenance and safety issues. Nobody wants a home with faulty wiring, for example. • Ripping up old carpet if it’s an eyesore. Refinish an underlying wood floor or replace with new, neutral-colored carpet. • Enhancing curb appeal. If the roof looks like it was ravaged by a tornado, potential buyers won’t even come through the door. Small fixes here can make a big difference. • De-cluttering. The less “you” seen in the home, the easier it is for others to imagine their own lives there. If necessary, rent a storage space to temporarily relocate extra furniture and clutter while your home is on the market. Source: NewsUSA

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

e-Subscribe to Smart Living Weekly Now! You Will Be Automatically Entered into This Week’s Giveaway! Save Smarter • Live Better • Every Week

Get Started at NorthwestQuarterly.com/Contest

Enter This Week’s Giveaway, and Receive Smart Living Every Week For FREE! E-Subscribers: Click Here Now to Enter This Week’s Giveaway.

This Week’s Giveaway Winner To Be Announced Oct. 21 on the 13 WREX Morning Show $50 Gift Card Gustafson’s Furniture & Mattress

Enter Now At: www.northwestquarterly.com/contest For contest rules go to NWQSmartLiving.com

Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

Y M

5 Essential Steps to Start Talking About Money

oney is a taboo topic – we’re taught not to talk about it from the time we’re kids. But research shows it’s also a source of stress, anxiety and tension for most Americans. In fact, 64 percent of adults experience stress about money, ranking it a higher source of stress than work, family responsibilities and health according to a recent study by the American Psychological Association. And it’s affecting our health – 66 percent of all doctor’s office visits last year were due to stress-related health issues. The fact is, dealing with money doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few small steps, it’s possible to change the way we think and talk about money, creating new possibilities for financial and personal growth along the way. 1. Get inspired. Look for creative expressions of growth that inspire you at your favorite museum, outdoors or online

at websites like MadetoGrow.com, which is chock-full of compelling content and stories of overcoming challenges. 2. Dream big, act small. Whether your dream is to spend a year in Thailand, turn your love of cooking into a business or pay off your credit card debt, each dream begins with a first step. Break your dream into smaller actions to make the mountain smaller. Set deadlines along the way to give yourself the satisfaction of achieving milestones. 3. Adopt the buddy system. Find a friend or loved one in a similar financial situation and open up about your financial challenges, hopes and dreams. Consider creating a community group with others to share tips and learnings with one another. 4. Talk leads to action. Get out there and talk about it. For too long, money has been a forbidden topic that we’ve been conditioned to avoid. Podcasts are a great

source of inspiration. Open Account with SuChin Pak is a great example of open and honest conversations about all aspects of money and life. 5. Find a partner that believes. You’ve opened up, now what? Find a bank that’s dedicated to helping customers realize their full potential. Build a relationship with a financial advisor that understands your dreams and can help you reach your goals. The right partner will listen to your goals and identify tools and resources to help. ❚

Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Source: Brandpoint

Oct. 14

I  W

Smart Living Weekly

Oct. 14

B U L C S ’ R E Y A L P R E I M E R P E H T

R E Y A L P H C I H W ? U O Y E AR WHICH PLAYER ARE YOU? Topaz is suave, without being too serious. Blackjack’s his game of choice, though he dabbles in slots every now and again. Learn more about our five-tier player’s club, featuring the best gaming and amenities in the Midwest, now with more smoke-free areas!

Smart Living Weekly

Issue 1