Smart Living Weekly - February 8, 2017

Smart a t L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • February 8, 2017

™

Right in Our Region

Say ‘I Love You’

by Donating Blood

See Page 20

Make Valentine Sugar Cookies Gear Up for Beloit Film Festival Practice Good Money Habits Prevent Indoor Flooding

FREE, WIN! $25 Gift Card from GreenFire Restaurant

See Pg. 32 Details

Best of Life Information for Our Region’s Residents & Visitors Proudly Serving the Needs of 326,000 Neighbors - For Your Home, Health & Fun!

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 20 Say ‘I Love You’ By Donating Blood Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Prevent Indoor Flooding Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 A Promise of Peace Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookies Your Outings ................................................17,18 Beloit International Film Festival, ‘Love Letters’ Your Auto ................................................ .......... 19 Be Safe This Winter Your Schools .......................................... .......... 23 Rockford Lutheran Schools Your Health ............................................. .......... 25 Is Your Water Pure?

Your Fun ................................................... ......... 27

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 28 Thrive Cafe Your Technology .................................... .......... 31 Pay Less for Tech Your Money .............................................. ......... 33 Pay Yourself First

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Janine Pumilia Assistant Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen

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Cleats and Fetes

W

ow, that was SOME Super Bowl, and I’m not even a football fan! I especially enjoyed the bad puns posted by Falcons fans, like “This game is enraptoring” or “they are so “talonted.” And this bit of humor, too: “At least the Falcons won the popular vote.”

I’m guessing manicurists all over the city are slammed after that nail-biting 4thplus quarter. It brought back memories of the roller coaster 2016 World Series, when our Cubbies defeated the Indians 8-7 in the 10th inning. My nails were plenty wrecked after that game, too.

There are moments in these pro games that make me wonder why we put ourselves through such an excruciating crucible.

Unlike elections, which actually impact our future, pro sports victories give us nothing tangible and cost us plenty.

Consider that Chicago Cubs tickets will rise nearly 20 percent in 2017, after that World Series triumph. A strictly moneyminded view of the world would find it logical for us to root for their loss, not their victory. But money isn’t everything.

Premium dugout box tickets will cost more than $29,000 – an average of $359 per game. Bleacher tickets will average $51 plus tax. But we wouldn’t trade our team victories away for anything, would we? Good ideals often trump mere good deals.

Condolences to you true football fans who are experiencing withdrawal this week.

We’re here to remind you that there’s life beyond cleats and fetes, right in our region.

Local concerts, special exhibits, outdoor festivals and fine dining come to mind.

And it’s a safe bet that many non-footballloving housemates are more than ready to be rewarded for months of patient endurence.

This is the lead-up week to Valentine’s Day, after all.

We present you with many ideas for fun, on these pages, and you’ll find even more in the Northwest Quarterly Magazine calendars at northwestquarterly.com.

Here’s to a lovely, football-free week and a little romance, too! ❚ Janine Pumilia Managing Editor

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Y H  G

How to Prevent Indoor Water Damage

By Peggy Werner

W

ater can be soothing, romantic and mesmerizing. Left to its own devices, however, it can be destructive and even deadly.

A few preventative steps can help you to avoid unwelcome surprises, damage and expense.

“People going away on vacation, whether for days or months, should turn off the water to their whole house,” says Chris Picot, general manager of Flood Pros, 11137 Bertram Road in Rockford.

“People don’t always think to do that, but it only takes a couple hours to cause thousands of dollars worth of damage because of water.”

Frozen pipes, worn-out appliances, and leaks or breaks in water lines, roofs and windows can all lead to water damage.

Picot also suggests having a plumb-

er change out water supply lines from plastic ones to rubber hoses encased in braided stainless steel, which prevents flexing. Plastic ice maker water lines can be changed to copper. Copper water lines leading to the outside in unheated areas of the home should be shut off in the winter. Water lines in exterior walls should be well insulated.

Flood Pros has been in business since 1992 and works around the clock to respond to water problems quickly. A water damage specialist explains to customers the process of water damage restoration and helps with processing an insurance claim, if needed.

The company has state-of-the-art equipment such as thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to determine the source of water damage. It also uses high-powered dehumidifiers and large

air movers to reduce drying time to three days or less, in most cases. By recording data on each damaged area, Flood Pros can determine what progress is being made. Totally drying an area eliminates mold or other pathogenic growths from developing.

For more information, visit floodpros.net or call the Rockford office at (815) 398-2379. The Janesville location is at 2811 Milton Ave. and its phone number is (608) 756-9300. ❚

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I  W

A Promise of Peace

I

n the book of Isaiah, written more than 700 years before the birth of Jesus Christ, Isaiah prophesied the coming of the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).

In Galatians 5:22, we see “peace” listed among the fruit of the spirit that Christians reap when they follow the ways of God. The word is translated into English from the Greek “eirene,” (“pax” in Latin), which appears more than 90 times in the New Testament. (The name “Irene” comes from eirene.)

Throughout the Gospels, Jesus cautions that this world will never be a place of peace. “Don’t suppose that I’ve come to bring peace on the earth,” he says in Matthew 10:34. In fact, the very act of following him will stir turmoil, not peace, he warns. (Luke 12:51) So if this earth isn’t a peaceful place, why is peace promised to us? Because God’s peace is internal, not external.

Jesus knew what the Old Testament proclaimed about peace: “You [God] will keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, all whose thoughts are fixed on You,” (Isaiah 26:3 NLT).

Jesus promised that God would send the gift of holy spirit, a “comforter,” to live inside each believer. That promise was fulfilled on the Day of Pentacost.

This supernatural kind of peace only comes from God. “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus,” Paul wrote in Philippians 4:7.

Shortly before the darkest moment of history – Jesus’ betrayal and execution – he told his disciples: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I don’t give to you as the world gives. Don’t let your hearts be troubled and don’t be afraid.” (John 14:1).

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33).

God has already delivered peace to us through Jesus Christ, whether or not we “feel” it. Studying how the word "peace" is used in scripture is a great starting point for helping us to internalize this precious gift. ❚

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Y K

Show Off Your Sweet Side on Valentine’s Day T reat family, friends and co-workers this Valentine’s Day to impressive cookies. Start with your favorite roll-out cookie recipe or simply dress up storebought ones with simple icing details.

For more recipes, baking tips and inspiration, visit wilton.com.

Stackable Ombre Heart Cookies Ingredients: Favorite roll-out cookie recipe Royal icing (recipe on wilton.com) Rose Icing Color Heart Micro Mini Icing Decorations Preparation: Prepare and roll out cookie dough following recipe directions. Use 3 smallest cutters from 4-piece heart nesting cookie cutter set to cut out shapes. Bake and cool cookies.

Divide royal icing into three equal portions, and tint 3 shades of rose. Thin a portion of each shade following recipe directions. Use

tip 3 and full-strength tinted icing to outline cookies. Use thinned tinted icing in cut decorating bag to fill in cookies; gently tap to smooth icing. Let dry overnight.

Use icing to attach cookies, stacking largest to smallest; place icing decoration on top.

Scalloped Heart Cookies

Favorite roll-out cookie recipe Ready-To-Use White Creamy Decorator Icing Icing Colors: Burgundy, Red-Red and Christmas Red Preparation: Prepare and roll out dough following recipe directions. Use largest cutter from the 4-piece heart nesting cookie cutter set to cut out shape. Bake and cool cookies.

Divide icing into four equal portions. Tint one of each portion light burgundy, dark burgundy and combination of red-red/Christmas red. Reserve last portion white.

Starting from top edge of heart, use tip 102

and icing in dark burgundy, light burgundy, red and white to pipe V-shaped groups of two petals, one piped from left and one from right, to create row of petals in alternating colors. Repeat with second row between petals in first row. Continue to repeat pattern until cookies are covered. ❚

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Y O

Gear Up for Beloit International Film Festival

By Lindsey Gapen, assistant managing editor

B

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 O

H

ave you ever known someone who touched every part of your life?

Have you loved someone across time and distance?

“Love Letters,” a two-person play starring Doug and Kelley Munda of Freeport, Ill., will explore these themes on Saturday, Feb. 18 at 7:30 p.m. at Monroe Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis. This special performance is a collaborative fundraiser presented by Monroe Arts Center (MAC), Monroe Theatre Guild (MTG), and Winneshiek Theatre in Freeport.

“Love Letters” is a critically-acclaimed Broadway play by A. R. Gurney. It’s told through a lifetime of correspondence between Andrew and Melissa, who grew up together, went their separate ways, but continued to share hopes and ambitions, dreams and disappointments, through letters to one another.

Each born to wealth and position,

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straight-arrow Andrew Makepeace Ladd III and rebellious Melissa Gardner begin their lifelong correspondence with birthday party thank-you notes and summer camp postcards. Despite leading entirely separate lives, they can’t let go of each other and maintain a 50-year correspondence. Long after the letters are done, the real question remains: Have they made the right choices? Is once-in-a-lifetime love only a letter away?

“Kelley and I are delighted to be working in conjunction with MAC and MTG in order to support the arts in our communities,” says Doug Munda, the owner of Munda Auctions in Freeport.

He’s been involved in theater his entire life and is a board member at Winneshiek Theatre in Freeport.

Kelley Munda studied classical ballet and has danced with the Pennsylvania/ Milwaukee Ballet. Previous stage work includes roles in “The Fantasticks” and

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(Jane Lethlean photo)

Locals Star in ‘Love Letters’

Doug and Kelley Munda of Freeport rehearse for ‘Love Letters.’

“The Vagina Monologues.”

Reserved seat tickets are $15 and are tax deductible. Tickets for members of MAC, MTG and Winneshiek Theatre are $10. Purchase them at the box office, call (608) 325-5700 or go online at monroeartscenter.com.

This performance is supported by Corporate Underwriter Colony Brands, Inc., and Media Underwriters Monroe Publishing, LLC, and Big Radio. ❚

Y A C

Car Care is Extra Important in Wintertime

By Peggy Werner

A

little snow and rain can spell trouble for motorists, 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 and check-ups.

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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R  O R

Say ‘I Love You’ by Donating Blood

By Janine Pumilia, managing editor

C

heery, bright red hearts have been a favorite symbol of love for centuries, especially during the Valentine’s Day season. But coursing through our real hearts is blood – the sustainer of human life we all hold in common.

The origin of St. Valentine’s Day is foggy, but it didn’t start with Hallmark.

Some historians say it’s rooted in Lupercalia, an ancient pagan fertility festival that was celebrated on the ides of February (Feb. 15). Weirdly enough, it involved gently slapping young women with strips of animal skin dipped in sacrificial animal blood.

Like many pagan events, the festival was co-opted by the Roman Catholic Church during the Christianizing of Rome, sometime around 500 A.D. It was renamed for a martyred saint – possibly one who secretly wed couples in defiance

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of an emperor’s edict against marriage.

However it began, the holiday is now a celebration of human-to-human love in its many forms. Some people use the day to volunteer, donate to charities, send cheery cards to shut-ins or invite a lonely person to share a meal. In short, they stretch their wings of altruism and say “I love you” to the greater community.

Another good way to practice altruism is to donate blood to the Rock River Valley Blood Center (RRVBC), the only blood provider to hospitals in Rockford, Freeport, Beloit, Rochelle, Belvidere and Edgerton. The need is very great.

“Collections are down about 20 percent,” says Jennifer Bowman, marketing manager of RRVBC. “We’re juggling the limited blood products we have to ensure our hospitals have

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While 100 percent of the population is at risk for needing donated blood, only 10 percent of the eligible population gives blood. products on their shelves, but the supply continues to dwindle.”

Cold weather and flu season are seriously impacting the situation. There’s

R  O R

currently just a one-day supply of blood types B- and O-. A+, B+ and O+ are also below preferred levels; the center much prefers to have a three to five-day supply.

While 100 percent of the population is at risk for needing donated blood, only 10 percent of the eligible population gives blood, says Bowman. Those donors are a very special kind of people.

“These everyday heroes save lives without ever asking for anything in return,” says Bowman. “And donating blood is safe and simple. You can’t get AIDS or any other infectious disease by donating blood.”

To donate, you need to be at least 17 years old (age 16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 lbs. and generally be in good health. People who take

medications are not necessarily disqualified; if you have questions about this, just ask.

There are four community donor centers in Rockford, Freeport and Belvidere plus mobile blood drives. While the actual donation takes about 10 minutes, the whole process takes an hour or so.

When you arrive, you’ll complete a donor history screening and a mini-physical that consists of taking your temperature, pulse, blood pressure and hemoglobin (the number of red blood cells within your blood). Next, you’ll relax in a comfortable chair as blood is drawn. In less than 10 minutes, the blood donation is complete and you’ll experience the joy of knowing you’ve helped to save up to three lives. Relax in the center’s canteen

and enjoy refreshments, then wait at least eight weeks before donating again.

The average adult has 8 to 12 pints of blood circulating and donors give about a pint, or one unit, during one visit.

To put the need in perspective, consider that one average car accident victim requires about 50 units; one average heart surgery patient requires 6 units. About 40,000 units of donated blood are used every day in the U.S. Go to rrvbc.org for hours, directions and mobile blood drive schedules, and to learn more about who is qualified to donate blood, or call (877) 778-2299.

We’re all glad the days of slapping young women with animal blood are done. But our recognition of blood as a life-giving common denominator shared by all people of the earth lives on, as does the urgent need for donation.

If you’re looking to express some altruism this Valentine’s Day, it’s hard to imagine a better way to say “I love you” than by donating blood. ❚

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F  E

Rockford Lutheran Schools R

ockford Lutheran, 3411 N. Alpine Road, Rockford, is a Pre-K through grade 12 school with a strong tradition driven by the core values of excellence, service and harmony. It offers Christ-centered programs and interactions.

“We approach each student as an independent learner,” says Don Gillingham, executive director. “Beginning in the elementary school, we use leveled reading and individualized assistance in math to support and motivate students to do their best and reach for perfection. Our music program is second to none in the Stateline. Our Athletic program produces Jr. High and High School State Champions. Our teams regularly compete with schools having more than seven times our enrollment and find success.”

Excellence is the standard in all things, says Gillingham. The College Prep program regularly earns acceptance for more than 95 percent of graduates.

The graduating class of 2016 was offered more than $7 million in scholarships.

At Rockford Lutheran, students are not only prepared to become community leaders, but are also provided with opportunities to serve. This year, high school students are expected to provide more than 7,000 hours of Christian service for their churches, neighbors and community organizations.

Rockford Lutheran has families from a wide range of backgrounds who entrust their children to the school’s care.

“But simply having a kaleidoscope of individuals in a school is not enough,” Gillingham says. “Rockford Lutheran values taking the diverse perspectives and experiences and blending them together to create a harmony that enriches our lives and expands our horizons.”

Rockford Lutheran was founded as

HELP

a ministry for young people to grow socially, scholastically and spiritually. Daily interactions are rooted and built up in Christ. The active integration of a living faith into college prep studies provides a Christ-centered environment.

In the coming years, Rockford Lutheran is committed to being an active part of the growth of the Stateline Region.

Learn more by calling (815) 8779551or go to rockfordlutheran.org. ❚

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Y H

What to Know About Your Water System

By Anna Girgenti

I

f there’s one thing you shouldn’t have to worry about, it’s your water. But 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 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

School Fair Feb. 8, 5-8 p.m. Parents can meet representatives of Rockford schools and learn about the diverse opportunities 1.800.521.0849 and unique gorockford.com programs. Nordlof Rockford, IL 61101 Center, 118 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 9657606, rockfordpubliclibrary.org.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

AE: Romance Theater Feb. 10-11, Fri. & Sat. 7:30-9 p.m. Immerse yourself in a play about classic romance, recreated as a vintage radio broadcast. The actors are literally switching hats at the microphone as they become new characters, while live sound effects intensify the action. Rockford University, Clark Arts Center, Cheek Theatre, 5050 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 394-5004, artistsensemble.org.

I Love the '90s Feb. 10, 7 p.m. Iconic artists of the '90s unite, including Salt-N-Pepa, Vanilla Ice, Coolio, Tone Loc, Young MC and Rob Base. BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford, (815) 9685222, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com.

Charlotte’s Web: Ellis Feb. 10, 7:30 p.m. A gifted songwriter and performer, Ellis is known for her stirring lyrics, openhearted performances and contagious laughter. She got her start at coffee shops and now tours the folk circuit with nine albums to her credit. Emerson House, 420 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.

The Five Irish Tenors Feb. 10, 7:30 p.m. These performers fuse Irish wit and boisterous charm with lyricism, dramatic flair and operatic style to bring the audience a unique Irish tenor concert experience. Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

Spotlight Youth Theater: “Seussical the Musical” Feb. 10-12, Fri. 7 p.m., Sat. 2 and 6 p.m., Sun. 3 p.m. Journey back to your childhood and the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss with Horton the Elephant, who finds himself faced with entertaining challenges. Hononegah Performing Arts Center, 307 Salem St., Rockton, Ill., (847) 5162298, spotlight.org.

Inspired Life Art Studio Open House Feb. 11, 3-8 p.m. To celebrate the grand opening

On Feb. 11, celebrate the opening of Inspired Life Art Studio, in Rockton.

of Insired Life Art Studio, this open house event features live-painting by owner/artist Tabatha Dougherty, coupons for future workshops and classes, refreshments and half-price "DIY Paint." Inspired Life Art Studio, 201 W. Main St., Rockton, Ill., (815) 391-0392, inspiredlifeartstudio.com.

History of St. Valentine's Day Feb. 12, 2 p.m. Learn the origins of this Saint's Day and special day for lovers. Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, (815) 397-9112, midwayvillage.com.

Jazz at Emerson: The Encore Trio Feb. 12, 3 p.m. Savor an intimate concert by The Encore Trio, followed by light refreshments.

Emerson House, Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.

Travis Tritt Feb. 16, 7:30 p.m. Performing some of his biggest hits, including “T-R-O-U-B-L-E,” “It’s a Great Day to be Alive” and “Best of Intentions,” the Grand Ole Opry member brings his awardwinning songs to life during this up-close and personal event punctuated by personal stories and anecdotes about his life and musical influences. Coronado Performing Arts Center, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, Coronadopac.org.

Painted Birdhouse Class Feb. 17, 10 a.m.-noon. Lighten your heart and welcome birds to your yard. In this hands-on class, participants learn the process of turning a birdhouse into a work of art. Supplies are all provided and no prior experience is required. Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford, (815) 965-8146, Klehm.org. ❚

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Feb. 8

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WDL

High Nutrition Served at Peak’s Thrive Café

By Peggy Werner

P

eak Sports Club, 4401 Peak Drive, Loves Park, is offering yet another way to achieve good health.

Thrive Café opened last year and is open to the public as well as to Peak members. The menu consists primarily of freshly made salads, wraps, Panini sandwiches, cold-pressed juices and smoothies. All homemade items are prepared with fresh ingredients purchased locally.

Jason Rager, owner and operator of Thrive Café, is a personal trainer who emphasizes the nutritional side of fitness.

He says good carbohydrates fuel a workout and protein and other nutrient-rich foods like fruits and vegetables help the body recover and repair after strenuous activity.

Rager describes the freshly made cold-pressed juices and smoothies as a “meal-in-a-cup” because of the quan-

tity of fruits and vegetables used in each 16-oz serving.

Making the drinks on the spot allows for optimum nutrition you can’t find in processed foods.

Juicing extracts the liquid from fruits and vegetables, leaving the fiber behind. Without the fiber, it’s easier to consume lots of fruits and vegetables and quickly get essential vitamins, minerals and enzymes into the blood stream for an energy burst.

“Juicing changes the body at a cellular level. With new cells being generated all of the time and getting the nutrients they need, the body just functions better,” he says.

On the other hand, smoothies are

made with the whole fruit, giving the consumer the benefit of fiber, which is more filling than juice alone. It allows for a slower release of sugar into the bloodstream.

Also, because smoothies are blended, you can add other ingredients like nutritious nuts and seeds that can’t go through a juicer.

Either way, people get daily servings of fruits and vegetables they otherwise might not consume, which helps to protect the human body from disease.

Thrive Café is open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. On Saturday it’s open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

It’s closed on Sunday. ❚

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

Smart Living Weekly

Feb 8 To advertise call 815-316-2300

D

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. ❚

SLW Dish of the Week Name of Plate: Rib Plate Restaurant: Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, 845 S. Perryville Road, Rockford Description: This dish comes with five hickory-smoked rib bones – just one bone short of a half rack. The plate also comes with two homestyle side dishes. Choose from mac-and-cheese, baked potato casserole, green beans with bacon and onions, waffle fries, coleslaw, potato salad and other options.

Why does this dish stand out?

“The ribs are smoked fresh every day with real hickory wood,” says Ryan McPeek, owner. “That gives them a really nice flavor. There’s also a lot of food on the rib plate. A lot of people end up taking home leftovers.”

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit offers dine in, carry out and catering services. Hours are 11 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. ❚

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Y T

Reduce the Cost of Monthly Tech Bills

By Peggy Werner

W

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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Y M

Good Money Habit: Pay Yourself First

By Peggy Werner

N

o matter how much money you have, getting into the habit of saving money is not only a good idea, it’s also good planning.

Everyone should have an emergency savings account, with funds set aside for those unexpected costs that are inevitable, like a worn-out appliance, leaky roof, replacement car parts or medical bills, says Matt Lynch, director of marketing for MembersAlliance Credit Union, headquartered at 2550 S. Alpine Road in Rockford.

“We teach the mantra ‘Pay yourself first.’ If you’re not in the habit of saving, set aside a small amount of money on a regular basis, until you get used to the idea and enjoy the results,” Lynch suggests.

“You have to work up to it, but the

earlier you start, the more you’ll benefit from getting into the habit of saving. People find out they can enjoy saving money as much as they enjoy spending it. When an emergency occurs, you won’t have to wonder where the money is coming from, you’ll have it,” he says.

Of course, a lot depends on how old you are, what debt you have, your family size and personal situation.

Technology makes it easy to transfer money to a savings account before making other payments.

“The only thing you have to be diligent about is increasing the amount over time. People think they will miss the money, but they won’t, especially if they increase the amount they set aside gradually, maybe eat out less, or make other minor adjustments to the way they live.”

MembersAlliance has a branch location at 6951 Olde Creek Road, Rockford; and locations inside Wal-Mart Supercenters on West Riverside Boulevard, Walton Street and Rockton Road in Rockton. ❚

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