Smart L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • April 4, 2018
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Right in Our Region
Habitat’s ReStore Makes a Big Move
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Maximize Your Furniture Comfort How to Clean Window Treatments Have You Thought About Router Security? Lots of Springtime Plays, Concerts, Fun
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In This Issue Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 16 Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore Moves, Expands Your Home ............................................. .....11, 21 How to Clean Blinds; Maximizing Comfort Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Onward to Pentecost! Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Dessert and Wine Pairing Your Technology .................................... .......... 23 Is Your Router Secure? Your Outing ............................................. ......... 24 Spring Shopping Event this Weekend Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25
Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 Ciao Bella Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 26
Your Health ............................................. .......... 29 Hydrogen-rich Water
Smart L iving Weekly ™
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes
Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen Assistant Managing Editor Jermaine Pigee Editor Emeritus Janine Pumilia Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Behling Contributing Writer Peggy Werner, Paula Kalivoda Furniss General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes Advertising Sales Representatives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones, Nita Lasky, Kendra Green Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes 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 2018 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.
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Moral Courage A
t our family’s Easter gathering, we reflected on the day the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was murdered for acting on his faith, 50 years ago today, April 4, 1968. Although I was little, I clearly remember the impact it had on adults around me. My late mom, who very rarely cried, wept over the kitchen sink as she washed dishes. As a Presbyterian seminary student, my brother-in-law, the Rev. David Jones of Rockford, was hauled to jail for 30 days in June of 1963 in Wilmington, N.C., after taking part in a lunch counter sit-in at a “whites only” diner. He was beaten by white inmates for saying “I believe in equal rights for everyone.” Inspired by Dr. King, Dave believed his faith demanded that he stand up for the marginalized. Now retired, he still gets weepy when he thinks about the NAACP youth chapter members who daily gathered outside his jail cell window to sing “We Shall Overcome.” Later in 1963, by sheer coincidence, Dave bumped into those same Wilmington youths on the crowded Washington D.C. mall, as Dr. King delivered “I Have A Dream.” Today, faith still demands of Christians – and the Declaration of Independence still demands of Americans – a bedrock belief in the equality of all people. And that belief still meets mountains of resistance. Today, Dr. King’s sermons still ring scripturally pure. He didn’t preach that faith in God would fix all our problems or make us wealthy, as became a popular message to win converts in the 1980s. He knew only too well that faith requires us to risk losing everything. To me, he exemplifies moral courage. Dr. King attacked systems gone awry, not individuals. He taught peaceful resistance to oppression, not violence. He modelled love, not vengeance, and hope, not cynicism. Dr. King was no saint – no human is. But his strength was grounded in the conviction that Jesus Christ loves all people equally and expects the same from us. As it temporarily did for Jesus, this message proved fatal in a society determined to rank people by its own value system. Find Dr. King’s speeches online at drmartinlutherkingjr. com. Have a great week! ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor
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AMAZING SOFA SALES!
Conway Power Leather Sofa WAS $2799 NOW $2549 Custom Sofas Starting at $1899 If you can’t find the right piece for your style and space, or simply don’t care for off the rack styles, take design into your own hands. With frame options for sectionals, sofas, loveseats and chairs, you can choose the right seating arrangement and size for your space. Once you decide on the scale of your frame, you can choose from several feet, skirt, arm and back options. Add personal flare to your piece with welting and nailhead trim options, and over 650 fabrics.
6551 E. State St. Call (815) 636-8608 Today! 4
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Towww.GustafsonFurniture.com advertise call 815-316-2300
808 W. Riverside Blvd. & 6651 E. State St. Rockford IL • 815.636.8608 • GustafsonFurniture.com Smart Living Weekly
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CUSTOM BLINDS, SHADES, SHUTTERS AND DRAPERY
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Personalized Experience | Fast Service | Trusted Brand *This offer must be presented at the time of purchase. Offer valid on 3 Day Blinds brand products only. Buy 1 window covering and receive the 2nd one of equal or lesser value at 50% off! Offer excludes Shutters, Special Orders, installation, sales tax, shipping and handling. Not valid on previous purchases or with any other offer or discount. Offer Code BGXB. To advertise callMA 815-316-2300 Smart Livinglicenses: Weekly AprilCA4#1005986, 10 Blinds holds 3 Day the following AZ ROC 264398, CT HIC.0644950, #184680, NJ #13VH09390200, OR #209181, PA #PA107656, WA #3DAYBDB842KS, Nassau County H01073101, Rockland County #H-12401-34-00-00. © 2018 3 Day Blinds LLC.
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How to Clean Blinds, Shades & Shutters By Janine Pumilia
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ost of us value our window treatments but aren’t always sure how to clean them. “It’s a question I’m asked pretty often,” says Jenny Behning-Ziemke, Rockford-area design consultant with 3 Day Blinds. The company offers noobligation in-home visits to help you choose customized window treatments that look and function well in your particular rooms. The consultant measures, explains options and helps you to choose products that meet your needs and preferences. 3 Day Blinds typically manufactures and ships the products within three days; a professional then brings them to your home and installs them. “We pride ourselves on a hassle-free experience,” says Ziemke. “Our business is built around that concept.” But keeping your window treatments
clean is up to you. 3 Day Blinds offers these tips: Horizontal metal, wood and faux wood blinds can be put into a closed position and vacuumed with a vacuum nozzle attachment or hand-held vaccum, says Ziemke. Honeycomb shades and blinds and horizontal sheer shades can be cleaned with a hair dryer set on cool temperature to blow dust out of the channels. “I also recommend using canned air that you buy in an office supply store to clean the channels,” says Ziemke. “If you clean them well four times a year, they’re good.” Vertical blinds can be vacuumed or spot cleaned with a damp towel. Curtains and drapes should be dry cleaned to ensure the various fabrics are treated as needed. Frequent dusting and
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occasional vacuuming is a great way to keep them clean year round. Shutters are among the easiest window treatments to clean and maintain. In addition to dusting every few weeks, clean shutters with wood-cleaning spray and a soft cloth. Learn more at 3dayoffer202.com or set up a home consultation by calling (815) 242-0034. Be sure to ask about the buy one, get one 50 percent off sale currently in progress. ❚
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On to Pentecost T
he resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the Christian faith, as we recently celebrated on Easter Sunday. But the story doesn’t end there. In fact, the close of the Easter season is a full 50 days after Easter in the Western world. Why? “After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.” Acts 1:3 In the opening of Acts, we read that Jesus has been appearing to various people for 40 days and is now with his 11 apostles. He tells them to stay in Jerusalem, where they will “receive power” from the holy spirit – a promise that’s fulfilled 10 days later, on Pentecost – 50 days after the resurrection. “Pente” means 50. Before Christ came, Jews celebrated Pentecost, or the Feast of Weeks, to recognize the way God provided for them – Moses brought the law to the people from Mt. Sinai 50 days after the miraculous exodus from Egypt and slavery. Just as Israel was freed from Egyptian captivity and given God’s law 50 days later, Christ’s followers were freed from mortality by his resurrection and transformed by holy spirit 50 days later. Jesus tells the apostles that, once they have received power from the holy spirit, they will be witnesses for him not only in Jerusalem, but throughout the entire earth. Especially in an age without modern transportation or communication, it was quite a statement. “And when he had spoken these things, while they watched, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.” Acts 1:9 Although most of us don’t celebrate Pentecost with the same fanfare (and commercialism) given to Easter and Christmas, it’s a landmark date in Christianity and is the “birthday” of the church. This year, Pentecost will be celebrated on Sunday, May 20. It’s always seven weeks after Easter Sunday. Easter is determined by calculating the first Sunday after (but never on) the first full moon after the spring equinox – the day when hours of light and darkness are about the same. Onward to Pentecost! ❚ – Janine Pumilia
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Pair Like a Pro: Wine and Desserts W
hen it comes to pairing wine with food, even experts agree that desserts can pose a challenge. A wide variety of flavor combinations can make it hard to find the perfect selection to serve with your sweet treat. While there’s no exact science to wine pairing, these simple tips can help you make your selection.
equal. For a richer delicacy, try something like Villa Pozzi Nero D’avola, a more fruit-forward, easy-drinking red varietal. For more tips visit winefix.com
Sweet Cheesecake A good rule: the lighter the dessert, the lighter the wine. Avoid heavy reds for a sweeter dessert and instead pair with a crisp white like Chardonnay, such as Joseph Carr from Sonoma, Calif. Citrusy Lemon Meringue Pie Lemon flavors can sometimes be polarizing, but complementing this dessert with an equally citrusy wine can work wonders. Try pairing with a food-friendly pinot grigio or a sauvignon blanc. Rich Chocolate Cake Red wine with chocolate seems like a nobrainer, but not all red wines are created
Recipe courtesy of the National Honey Board 2 cups graham cracker crumbs 1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese 3/4 cup honey 1/4 cup flour 5 eggs 1/3 cup heavy cream 1 TB lemon zest, grated 1 tsp. vanilla fresh berries, for garnish fresh mint, for garnish
New York-Style Honey Cheesecake
Preparation: To make crust: In small bowl, stir together graham cracker crumbs and butter until well blended. Press mixture evenly onto bottom and sides of greased 9-inch springform
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pan; set aside. Heat oven to 350 F. To make filling: In electric mixer bowl, combine cream cheese, honey and flour. Beat until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Beat in cream, lemon zest and vanilla. Pour cream cheese mixture over crust; bake 15 minutes. Lower oven temperature to 200 F and bake 1 hour and 30 minutes longer, or until center no longer looks wet or shiny. With oven off and door ajar, let cheesecake cool 1 hour in oven. Remove cheesecake to rack to cool completely. Cover and refrigerate cheesecake at least 4 hours before serving. Garnish with fruit and fresh mint. Pair with chardonnay like Joseph Carr. ❚
Source: Family Features
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Habitat ReStore Moves, Expands this Month By Peggy Werner
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eri Nelson, executive director of Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity, has big plans for the local organization. This means building more homes, developing closer-knit neighborhoods and moving and expanding Habitat ReStore. Habitat ReStore accepts new and used building materials, fixtures, working appliances and more from individuals, retailers, businesses and contractors. These are sold to the general public at 50 to 90 percent off the retail price, with all proceeds going to Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity. Donations can be picked up, depending on the location, and are tax deductible. Purchases cannot be delivered. Habitat ReStore is in the process of moving from its North Towne Mall location to the former MC Sports building at 7141 Harrison Ave., where it will have
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three times more space to take in donations. Although it’s a big undertaking, Nelson has confidence in her community. “Rockford is nothing short of incredible,” says Nelson. “This city is an unusually generous and kind community. There are far more thoughtful, compassionate and kind people than most people give it credit for and for that reason I fell in love with this city. The number of people who really care about this city is amazing. It’s easy to love a city when you get to know the people.” The new location officially opens Wednesday, April 18, with a grand opening celebration on Saturday, April 21, with free hot dog lunches, activities for kids, do-it-yourself workshops and other in-store activities, as well big discounts on inventory. Store hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
April 4
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ReStore Accepts ... • Aluminum Siding • Architectural Items li keColumns, Mantles • Cabinets – Kitchen and Bathroom • Carpet and Carpet Pad (New) • Countertops • Doors • Electrical Usable Fixtures, Parts & Supplies • Fencing & Materials • Flooring: Wood, Ceramic Tile, Vinyl • Furnaces & Air Conditioners (working) • Furniture: Desks, Tables, Bookcases etc. • Hardware: Knobs, Hinges, Locks, Nails etc. • Large Appliances (working) • Light Fixtures & Lamps, Interior & Exterior • Lumber & Trim: 4-feet min. length, nail free • Masonry, Sheathing & Drywall • New Paint, Stain & Varnish • Plumbing: Toilets, Sinks, Bathtubs etc. • Roofing: Full, Unopened Bundles Only • Tools: Hand, Garden & Working Power • Wallpaper: Full, Unopened Rolls Only • Water Heaters: Less than five years old • Windows & Shutters: No broken glass
R O R Volunteers are needed to work as cashiers, to research and price items, stock shelves, pick up donations, receive and unload items and to provide customer service. Volunteer training sessions are every Thursday morning. If you’re interested in volunteering, call ReStore at (815) 713-3184. In addition to kicking off the new location for ReStore, Nelson and crew are focused on building more local Habitat homes, helping to maintain those homes and working with other organizations to provide affordable housing. “There’s a significant number of people who own homes but can’t afford to repair them,” she explains. “We also want to get into the area of neighborhood revitalization, so we aren’t just building homes, but are also building communities, so people can get to know their neighbors and watch out for each other.” Habitat for Humanity is in its 30th year in Rockford and builds about five new homes per year and repairs as many.
Nelson has been in charge of the local Habitat for Humanity for four years. She previously served as a volunteer coordinator for Habitat for Humanity in DeKalb, Ill. Twice a year, she organized a group of volunteers to bring supplies and workers to cities ravaged by hurricanes; she traveled 12 times to Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina. The Habitat affiliate with which she volunteered had an aggressive goal to build 100 homes for people who were left homeless by Katrina but didn’t want to leave their community in Slidell, La. Habitat changes lives for homeowners and volunteers. “I started working with Habitat in college and have been hooked ever since,” says Nelson. “It has taught me a lot about life and connected me with a lot of great people. Habitat people are the most resilient I know. Their stories kept pulling at my heartstrings and I just felt called to do more and more.” Nelson grew up volunteering for
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various projects through her church and school. In college, as a resident assistant, she chose projects to get students involved in community volunteering. Nelson believes most people who volunteer for Habitat are propelled by their strong faith or have themselves struggled with housing at one time and want to give back. “Once I got involved in Habitat, everything just opened up, one career move after another,” she says. “For me, it’s a ‘calling.’” ❚
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Power Furniture: The Solution for Comfort By Janine Pumilia
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ost of us grew up with a one-sizefits-all sofa in our homes, and it was more comfortable for some people than others. If you were petite, your feet may not have touched the floor and the backrest may have pushed your head too far forward. If you were tall, you may have felt cramped and constantly tempted to sling your legs over the coffee table when Mom wasn’t looking. As for Mom, she wished Dad would sit with her on the sofa now and then. But he found his old recliner just too comfortable to resist. Then came the Age of Power Furniture, which changed everything and continues to evolve. “Motion reclining furniture continues to be a growing trend,” says Becky Monigold, general manager at Gustafson’s Furniture & Mattress, 6651 E. State St. and 808 W. Riverside Blvd.,
Rockford. “Striving for ultimate comfort, manufacturers are showing adjustable headrests and adjustable lumbar features.” Today’s power furniture makes it possible for each person to customize the support his or her body needs, with the touch of a button. Power recliners, footrests and headrests are built right into today’s sofas and loveseats. One good example is the made-in-America CustomComfort line by HomeStretch. Its power sofas feature double recliners with power headrests, power lumbar movement and power extended footrests. The plush, pad-over chaise seating is made from easy-to-maintain 100 percent polyester; arm pads are made from solid foam. The seat box is constructed with hardwood and the motor mechanisms are made from steel. The attractive leatherlook cover has contrast stitching.
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Both domestic and imported materials are used in HomeStretch products, but the entire manufacturing process takes place in northeast Mississippi. Many other fine companies are making power furniture, too. Now, no matter your size or shape, it's easy for every person to find a comfortable position without sacrificing the needs of one family member for another. And being comfortable is what being home is all about, right? ❚
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Routers Play Key Role in Data Security By Peggy Werner
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ost people are careful not to give out personal information over their phone, yet they work every day on computers with inadequate security, says Primetime Audio Video General Manager Dirk Dutton. He says people pay attention to what they see and can hold in their hands, like cell phones and credit cards, but pay less attention to what they can’t see. “Their fears are in the wrong place,” says Dutton. “Smart devices are the most vulnerable items and hackers are working every day to find new ways to phish for information.” People spend thousands of dollars on phones, Ipads, laptops, computers and other electronics, but they rely on outdated and inexpensive routers that don’t have security updates, he says. The router takes the signal it gets
from a modem and delivers it to Wi-Fi, so people can see information on their devices, he explains. Especially in rental units, you don’t know the age of the equipment. It comes with a default username and password that should be changed right away to be made more secure. “The router is the foundation of a wireless system and should be as good
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as the devices connected to it. Network security has been around as long as the internet has existed and is at the forefront of people’s minds in hospitals, banks, and other businesses, but the amount of security people have at home has been largely ignored. Everyone knows what Wi-Fi is and how to use it, but they don’t know much about it,” he says, adding, “Good network security and good Wi-Fi go hand in hand. Why have great service, but have equipment that slows you down and is unprotected?” Dutton recommends working with technology experts to upgrade equipment that will do security updates. People should expect to pay hundreds of dollars for a good router because as manufacturers learn about safety measures and implement them for the consumer, there is a cost for that technology, he adds. ❚
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Events by Jodi Support Local Craftspeople By Peggy Werner
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ringing together people to discover the talents of others and supporting local businesses is what Events by Jodi is all about. The next scheduled event is from 10 a.m. to 3p.m. Saturday, April 7 at Tebala Shrine Center, 7910 Newburg Road. Both homemade arts and craft items and items from direct sales companies will be featured by more than 75 vendors coming from Wisconsin, Iowa and Illinois cities. Attendees can also register for door prizes at the entrance. “I hope people leave the event feeling they had a lot of fun while looking at a wide variety of crafts and meeting a lot of great people,” says Jodi Dandridge, event planner. After all, she puts in a lot of hours to plan each event. “I spend seven days a week, several hours a day, for months, planning each
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event in the hopes of creating a memorable event for everyone,” she says. She started her business in 2010 because she was aware of the enormous amount of talent in the area, with many of those people owning small businesses. She wanted to help build an awareness of their existence. Each year, the number of vendors has grown and hundreds of people now attend each event. Events by Jodi is a one-woman effort, which will result in six arts and craft
April 4
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shows with 75 to 135 vendors in locations in Boone, Winnebago and Stephenson counties. About half of the items are handmade and half are from direct sales vendors. Craft items include handmade soaps, wood art, Christmas items, jewelry, scarves, pillows, paintings, candles and much more. Most items are priced from $5 to $125. Other events on the schedule for this year include July 14 at Pecatonica Fairgrounds, Aug. 11 at Freeport Fairgrounds, Oct. 13 at The Community Center in Belvidere and Nov. 24 at Tebala Shrine Center in Rockford. All are free to attend. Anyone interested in being in a craft show can contact Jodi at jodidandridge@ yahoo.com. ❚
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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
Cirque du Soleil: Corteo April 5-8, Th.-Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 3:30 & 7 p.m., Sun. 1 & 5 p.m. Performers Rockford, IL 61101 gorockford.com singers include 51 1.800.521.0849 acrobats, musicians, and actors from around the world. BMO Harris Bank Center, Rockford, the bmoharrisbankcenter.com. 9/10/07 2:07:37 PM
Foreigner 40th Anniversary Tour April 6, 8 p.m. Forty years on, the band continues to rock with hits such as “Cold as Ice,” “Hot Blooded,” “Juke Box Hero” and “I Want to Know What Love Is.” Coronado PAC, Rockford, (815) 9680595, coronadopac.org. '1984' April 6-15, Fri.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. George Orwell depicts the horrors of man’s fate in a society where Big Brother is always watching. JPAC, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org. RSO: Brahms and Stravinsky April 7, 7:30 p.m. This program with violinist Joshua Brown features Brahms’ “Violin Concerto in D Major,” Dvorak’s “Prague Waltzes,” Stravinsky’s “Suite from the Firebird” and Scott Joplin’s “The Entertainer." Rockford Symphony Orchestra, Coronado PAC. (815) 9650049, rockfordsymphony.com. 15th Annual Home & Garden Showcase April 7-8, Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun. to 5 p.m. See trends in landscaping, decks, backyard ponds, waterfalls, more. Clinics on container gardening, beekeeping and gardening with recycled products. Live plant and shrub sale. Forest Hills Lodge, 1601 W. Lane Road, Loves Park, Ill., (815), 871-7469, showtimeproduction.net. Rockin’ Road to Dublin April 8, 7 p.m. Combining the best of rock and Irish, the high-energy show spotlights Celtic rocker Chris Smith and Irish Dance World Champion Scott Doherty. Coronado PAC, Rockford, (815) 9680595, coronadopac.org.
Three Dog Night comes to Rockford April 13.
Jonathan Rundman April 8, 7 p.m. This singer, vocalist and keyboard player presents a concert in various musical styles. Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Rockford Lutheran High School, 3441 N. Alpine Road, Rockford, (815) 399-0531, oslcrockford.com. Soar Radio Gospel Awards April 9, 7 p.m. This awards show features the best in Gospel and Inspirational music and highlights local community leaders. Coronado PAC, Rockford, (815) 9680595, coronadopac.org. NIU’s Steelband April 13, 7:30 p.m. This 35-member group has performed around the world. MPAC, Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org. Three Dog Night April 13, 8 p.m. Celebrate five decades of great music with icons whose hits include “Joy to the World,” “One” and “Eli’s Coming.” Coronado PAC, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org. 'Sugar' April 12-22, Thurs.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. Based on the 1959 movie “Some Like It Hot.” Stage Coach Players Theatre, 126 S. 5th St., DeKalb, Ill., (815) 758-1940, stagecoachers.com. Spring ArtScene April 13-14, Fri. 5-9 p.m., Sat. 4-9 p.m. New exhibits of original works throughout Rockford. See website for locations. Rockford Area Arts Council, (815) 9636765, springartscene.com. ❚
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New Chef, Menu, Hours, Specials at Ciao Bella
By Peggy Werner
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iao Bella Ristorante, 6500 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, has already made its mark as one of the best dining establishments in our region. Now it’s evolved to appeal to people of all ages, whether they want an elegant and leisurely evening meal or a quick, affordable lunch on the run. With a new chef, new menu items, new hours, a wider selection of beer and wine, a separate bar menu, food specials, options for vegetarian, vegan and glutenfree meals, slot machines and new ways of placing food orders, Ciao Bella has stepped up to the plate. “We just want more people to experience what we have to offer,” says Owner Talia Castrogiovanni. “We’ve taken the restaurant in a new direction by trying new things to attract those who haven’t been here and to keep others coming back.” Among recent changes: Customers
may now place online orders through the Ciao Bella Facebook page. They can enjoy $7 express lunches with an endless bowl of homemade soup. There’s a new lunch punch card that rewards you with one free meal after 12 visits. And there’s now an option to choose full or half salads. Drink specials include house wines and draft beer for $3 on Chicken Caprese with grilled vegetables & basil pesto. Mondays and Wednesdays or $2 toes, garlic and olive oil. Other new house wines on Thursdays. A new bar items include an Italian pizza burger, menu features boneless chicken wings, portabella flatbread, Caprese salad, clasquesadillas, tacos, burgers and wraps. sic Caesar salad and spinach salad served The new menu offers the most popwith warm bacon dressing. New appeular specials that have received rave tizer options include Teriyaki tuna and reviews in the past, such as mango groujumbo Asiago shrimp. per, which is grilled, topped with mango Ciao Bella has new hours, too. They salsa and served with house vegetables are Sundays from 4 to 7 p.m.; Monday and pesto angel hair pasta. There’s also through Friday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and 5 scallop or shrimp Pappardelle, which is to 9 p.m. Saturdays. ❚ egg noodles tossed with spinach, toma-
In the Spotlight
Top Picks for Local Restaurants Baci’s Kitchen Fast-Casual American and Italian specialties, Giordano’s Casual/Italian. Stuffed pizza, salads, entrees, dine-in, carry-out. 2990 N. Perryville Road, inside A Perryville sandwiches, desserts. 33 Executive Parkway, Rockford, (815) Place. (815) 329-6922. Open 7 days/wk. at 8 a.m. BkLD. Com- 398-5700. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11 pm. plete menu at Baciskitchen.com. GreenFire Upscale-Casual/American contemporary. SeaBravo Pizza Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, South Be- sonal cuisine; local-sourced ingredients; gourmet market; loit, Ill., (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $. live entertainment. 6795 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, (815) Capital House Fine dining, sushi bar, gourmet coffee (martini 316-3473. BkLD M-F 11am, Sat-Sun 8am. Bar open late. $$$.
bar awaiting liquor license). 308 W. State St., Rockford, (815) 708- Hearthrock Cafe Restaurant/cafe. Baked goods, coffee, 8989. BLD M-Th 8am-4pm, Fri. 8 am-10pm, Sat. 11am-10pm. breakfast, lunch. Inside Benson Stone Co., 1100 11th St., Closed Sunday. $-$$$. Rockford, (815) 227-2000. BkL M-F 7:30am-3pm; Sat. 8amCiao Bella Ristorante Upscale-Casual/Italian-American. Dai- 3pm. $-$$.
ly specials. 6500 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, Ill. (815) 654- Maciano’s Pizza & Pastaria Casual. Pizza, Italian favor9900. LD M-F 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 5-10 p.m. $$ ites, beer & wine. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, Ill., Costa’s Ristorante Upscale-Casual/Italian. 133 Blackhawk (815) 633-7500; 5801 Columbia Pkwy., Rockford, (815) 2275577. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $$. Dr., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. LD Daily 4pm. $-$$.
Cucina di Rosa Italian Bistro/Bakery 1620 Bell School Road, Prairie Street Brewhouse Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Rockford, (815) 395-5040. BkLD. Homemade gelato, baked Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$. goods, pasta, frittatas, more. M-Sat 7am-9pm. $$ Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant Casual/Mexican. Authen- Taco Betty’s Casual/Mexican-American. 212 E. State St., tic dishes, lunch menu. 5855 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 227- Rockford, (815) 977-5650. LD Daily 11am-1am. $$. 4979. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 10:30pm. $-$$.
Thrive Café Casual/Cafe. Salads, wraps, sandwiches, smoothies, cold-pressed juices. Inside Peak Fitness, 4401 Peak Fresco at the Gardens. Casual/American Café. Fresh, local-sourced ingredients. 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, Drive, Loves Park, Ill. BkLD M-F 6am-8pm, Sat 8am-2pm. ❚ (815) 316-2256. BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$
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To advertise call 815-316-2300
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Dos Reales
os Reales, 5855 E. State St., Rockford, has been serving up authentic Mexican fare and signature margaritas, along with some American fare, since 1998. Its recently updated menu features a burrito cheesesteak and chimichangas, along with newer items such as torta Mexicana, a Mexican style of sandwich filled with grilled chicken or steak; sopes Mexicanos, a traditional Mexican dish served with rice and beans; and molletes, a traditional Mexican meal with toasted bread covered in refried beans and grilled steak. Dos Reales offers glutenfree options, and dishes are mild unless a guest requests spicy. “We prepare everything from scratch and purchase our products from local sources,” says Jose Gonzalez, Dos Reales’s manager. Dos Reales is open Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and Fri.-Sat. until 10:30 p.m. ❚
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To advertise call 815-316-2300
Y H
The Healing Powers of Hydrogen Water M
any of us are doing everything we can to stay healthy. We exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet with lots of fruits and veggies, get plenty of sleep, drink water, and lead a purposeful life. Despite this, we may still experience health issues that are described as “signs of getting older.” For all of us, young and old, there is good news; the molecular hydrogen revolution has begun. Molecular hydrogen (H2) has been with us from the beginning of the universe and is vital to our life. It is a nontoxic, colorless, odorless, and tasteless antioxidant. It’s the smallest chemical element and since H2 is formed by our intestinal flora when digesting fiber, it is a natural byproduct of a healthy diet. Studies have shown Hydrogen-rich water to be a natural way to reduce pain and inflammation, improve energy, cognitive function, exercise performance,
and recovery. It’s also shown to neutralize free radicals, support antioxidant balance, super-hydrate your cells, and support overall wellness. And, while many people are discovering the healing powers of H2 water, our tap and bottled water contains literally no H2. A double-blind study with soccer players published in 2012 indicated that drinking H2 water before exercise reduced blood lactate levels and improved exercise-induced decline of muscle function. What does this mean for us? When
Healthy Hydrogen Water on Tap! Water Wellness Presentation a video/slideshow presentation
if you’re an ATHLETE who wants to achieve better performance, or a PARENT who battles school and daycare viruses, or a HEALTH NUT and want to keep it going, or if you’re AGING, or SUFFERING from chronic health conditions, or simply a PET OWNER who wants the best possible health for your special friend – THIS PRESENTATION IS FOR YOU!
we are well hydrated with H2 water, we will have less muscle fatigue during the workout, less post-workout muscle pain, and a quicker recovery. H2 water can be produced in highquality, medical-grade ionizers that can be installed in our homes, so we can drink freshly made H2 water. The best ionizers will produce water that is ultra-filtered to 0.001 microns, contains beneficial minerals, and has an abundance of H2. Today, this breakthrough is available to everyone, not just to elite athletes. Want to learn more about the natural healing powers of Hydrogen water? Steven Clarke, Certified Molecular Hydrogen Advisor, will be providing a free one -hour presentation on water wellness on April 5,6 & 7. For more information call (815) 262-6473. ❚ (Sponsored Content)
guest speaker
Steven Clarke
Three Time Options: NIU Rockford Conference Center
Certified Molecular 5800 E. State St – Rockford Hydrogen Advisor Nano-Hydration Specialist Thursday, April 5 ► 6:00 – 8:00 pm Water Wellness Coach Friday, April 6 ► 1:30 – 3:30 pm
Steven will present water wellness Emmanuel Episcopal Church in a unique and enjoyable way. Nation- 412 N. Church St – Rockford wide, many say they’ve learned more Saturday, April 7 ► 10:00 am – 12:00 about water in 1 hour than they knew in a lifetime. This new understanding “Hydrogen has therapeutic potential in of hydrogen and health is backed by over 170 disease models and in essenover 1,000 peer-reviewed scientific tially every organ of the human body.” research papers, most of them (Molecular Hydrogen Foundation) published since 2007!
Admission is FREE. Seating space is limited.
Please reserve your seat ONLINE today! NIU: https://niu_healthywaterontap.eventbrite.com Emmanuel: https://ee_healthywaterontap.eventbrite.com
Or feel free to call 815-262-6437 for more details Sponsored by Ionized Water Plus, LLC
Hydrogen Water ● Learn it ● Use it ● Benefit from it ! Tell them you saw it in ...
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April 4
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1721 WEST CANAL STREET | MILWAUKEE, WI 53233 | 1-800-PAYSBIG | WINNERS RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL TAXES MANAGEMENT RESERVES ALL RIGHTS | GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-426-2535 ©2018 FOREST COUNTY POTAWATOMI COMMUNITY, WISCONSIN
1721 WEST CANAL STREET | MILWAUKEE, WI 53233 | 1-800-PAYSBIG WINNERS RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL TAXES MANAGEMENT RESERVES ALL RIGHTS | GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-426-2535 ©2018 FOREST COUNTY POTAWATOMI COMMUNITY, WISCONSIN
END-OF-WINTER CLEARANCE
60 % SAVE up to
Final Days!
on Furniture Floor Samples!
SAVE ON FURNITURE
40
ALL % OFF Flooring
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LIGHTING SALE #F519-WH
Was $309
orig. $6.75/sq. ft.
Amazing Selection Professional Designers Only the Best Installers
Sale $ Price
399
sq. ft.
75% up to
52" CEILING FAN Helmsman Collection 1/2" x 5" Engineered Hardwood (shown)
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Over 200 Clearance Fixtures ON SALE!
Over 1,000 Fixtures on Display
Visit our website (lighting dept.) to view all 65,000 lighting fixtures available!
Area’s Largest Selection of Quality Slabs
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Hours: Mon 9am-8pm Tues-Sat 9am-5pm, Closed Sundays Sale ends April 9, 2018
www.bensonstone.com 1100 Eleventh Street (just south of Charles) • Rockford, Illinois 61104 • 815-227-2000
Visit our Cafe serving Breakfast and Lunch
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