Smart Living Weekly October 23, 2019

Smart L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit 95¢ • Oct. 23, 2019

™

Right in Our Region

Laughs for Literacy!

Have Fun, Do Some Good

See Page 16

Chiropractic for Student Athletes Last Year for Hometown Holidays!

On the Go? Fast, Nutritious Meals Do You Embrace New Technology?

Plant Now for Christmas Blooms

FREE WIN!

2 Passes to the Discovery Center Musesum

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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. 16 ‘Laughs for Literacy’ Your Home ............................................ ..... 11, 21 Remodeling Tips; Plant Now for Holiday Blooms Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 The Joy of Honesty Your Kitchen ...............................................15, 19 Love Your Leftovers; Tasty Alternative to Fast Food Your Outing ........................................................20 Final Curtain for ‘Hometown Holiday’ Your Health ............................................. .......... 23 How Chiropractic Can Help Student Athletes Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25 Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 Dos Reales Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 26 Your Technology ...................................... ......... 29 Embrace New Technology

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen Lukas 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 Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Distribution Kelly Fairbairn 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 2019 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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Spicing It Up A

utumn is the time of year I delude myself into thinking I’ll soon do a lot of cooking.

But while organizing my kitchen this fall, I had a sad epiphany: my good intentions exceed actual oven hours logged and always have.

Most humbling of all is organizing my spice drawers. I have two large spice drawers, a continual annoyance to my husband, who’s a salt-and-pepper kind of guy.

The sheer volume tells me I’m either wonderfully creative or in denial of my mortality.

Even Julia Child couldn’t have used this much spice in one lifetime. And she actually cooked!

Why do I have six jars of cumin, each half full? Why did I buy so many brands, each with differing jar sizes that don’t fit nicely side-byside? I vow to change my ways but know I won’t; I picture Martha Stewart slowly shaking her head in disapproval.

As I alphabetize my misfit collection, I’m fascinated that so many spices begin with the letter “C.” Caraway, cardamom, celery seed, cinnamon, Chinese five spice, chili powder, chives, cloves, coriander, curry … What’s up with that? “C” is for “curious” and that I am. I stop to Google “history of spices.”

“C” is also for “compulsive.” Should “Ground Red Pepper (Cayenne)” go with the Cs or Ps? I waste time agonizing over this.

Rogue bowls that don’t nest properly in a cupboard drive my hubby crazy. Not me; I just wrangle them into submission. But straggler seasonings? They’re my nemasis.

Logically, for example, “Chicken seasoning blend” (another “C”) should be stored next to “Poultry seasoning,” right? Yet those names are 14 letters apart in the alphabet. Frustrating!

Some spices I own just because it feels irresponsible not to, like turmeric, which doubles as a super food. But turmeric turns food neon yellow, so I mostly avoid it. (Note to self: Like your gym membership, merely owning it won’t improve health.)

By the time I finish all this sorting, I’m exhausted and order a pizza. We humans are complicated.

Happy cooking! Or not. ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor

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Y H  G

Goal: A Home Renovation Without Surprises

By Peggy Werner

M

acktown Construction, 9957 N. Alpine Road, in Machesney Park, has put on a new addition to make life easier for homeowners looking for ideas and materials for renovating their homes.

Cedar & Stone Cabinetry and Flooring is a new 2,400 square-foot showroom that carries a full line of cabinets, flooring, cabinet hardware, countertops and lighting to help people make choices, says Tony Bonnet, president.

“We want to create a better overall experience for our customers. In this business for more than 15 years, one thing that stands out is just how overwhelming and stressful it can be for people trying to make choices,” Bonnet says.

Macktown specializes in kitchens, bathrooms and home renovations and adheres to a seven-step process to make sure every construction project runs smoothly and with minimal surprises.

“When it comes to remodeling, you can find a lot of buried headaches in the areas of plumbing, electrical work and framing that can’t be seen at first. We want to make sure we have everything covered and there are no surprises,” he says.

Macktown Construction professionals offer a free inhome consultation with customers. It gives advice and discusses goals and fears a customer may have regarding the project. A pre-construction meeting takes place before the project begins. When work is finished, a warranty is delivered and follow-up appointments ensure satisfaction, Bonnet says.

When thinking about a home remodeling project, people need to have an idea

in mind of how they want an area to look and what they are willing to invest.

“The first thing we always want to know is why someone wants to make a change, whether it’s to update an existing space, open up an area, or set another goal,” he says. ❚

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I  W

The Joy of Honesty

H

onest people do the right thing, even when that thing means personal sacrifice. But cheaters rationalize selfish behaviors. They tell themselves it’s OK to cheat on taxes; to forge school papers or exams; to shortchange customers; to lie to the boss ...

While “Be Honest” isn’t one of the 10 commandments, it’s at the core of most.

Stealing, bearing false witness and adultery, for example, all involve dishonesty … and God doesn’t like it. Habitual liars rob themselves of true peace and other spiritual riches that come with “growing up in Christ.” (Ephesians 4:15) More importantly, they grieve the heart of a generous God who has lavished us with unconditional love and eternal life. How must God feel when we act like petty thieves rather than grateful children? God wants us to treat one another the way we want to be treated.

“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.” Luke 16:10 (NIV) Before the coming of Jesus, it would have been better for us to cut off our hands than to steal again, says scripture. Today, we have better options. We can accept God’s grace, change our bad habits and grow up in Christ. As we do, something wonderful happens: We experience the secret thrill of pleasing God. We grow closer to Him and feel joy. And with each good choice, we extend the light of Christ further into a dark world.

The world seldom exalts people for being honest, but who cares? We do it because pleasing God is worth everything.

“Now the Pharisees, who were lovers of money, were listening to all these things and were scoffing at Him [Jesus]. And He said to them, ‘You are those who justify yourselves in the sight of men, but God knows your hearts; for that which is highly esteemed among men is detestable in the sight of God.’” (Luke 16:14 & 15) The world exalts cheaters, liars, the proud and self-serving. Don’t let it get you down. Jesus Christ has overcome the world.

(John 16:33). ❚ – Janine Pumilia 12

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Y K

Tips and Tricks to Waste Less Food A

mericans waste an estimated 40 percent of the food they buy. In fact, the average person wastes an estimated 25 pounds of food every month and dairy products are thrown out even more than produce. Learning kitchen tricks and strategies to store dairy products properly can help to reduce food waste.

•To toss could be a loss. Research conducted by the Midwest Dairy Association found more than half of consumers don’t understand the meaning of “Sell-By” or “Use-By” dates on dairy products. These dates actually indicate peak quality, not safety. Dairy products can be safely consumed beyond the “Sell-By,” “Best-By” or Use-By” dates up to one week for milk, up to 10 days for yogurt and weeks or months for most soft and hard cheeses.

•Know when to throw it. Discard dairy products if they have an off flavor, odor or appearance. Soft cheese or yogurt with mold should be discarded. Mold on hard cheese should be removed by cutting off a 1-inch square around the affected area and throwing it away; the rest is safe to eat.

Turkey Tetrazzini with Cheddar and Parmesan Nonstick cooking spray 1 package (12 ounces) whole-wheat penne pasta 2 TB butter 1/4 cup flour 3 cups low-fat milk 1 cup fat-free low-sodium chicken broth 1/2 cup dry white wine (or additional chicken broth) 1/2 tsp. pepper 2 cups sliced white button mushrooms 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese 2 cups diced cooked turkey breast 1 cup frozen peas 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese

Preparation Heat oven to 350 F. Spray shallow 2to 3-quart baking dish with cooking spray; set aside. Cook pasta according

to package directions. In large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and stir in flour. Stirring constantly, cook about 2 minutes. Whisk in milk, chicken broth, wine and pepper; bring mixture to a boil.

Stir in mushrooms, reduce heat and cook about 10 minutes, stirring frequently, or until mixture thickens and mushrooms are softened. Stir Parmesan cheese, pasta, turkey and peas into milk mixture; spoon into prepared baking dish. Top with cheddar cheese and cover loosely with foil. Bake about 45 minutes, or until bubbling at edges and heated through. ❚ Source: Family Features

•Portion and freeze future meals.

Soups, stews and casseroles all freeze well, including those that contain dairy products. Milk is best when used within three months of freezing and yogurt when used within two months. For best quality, soft cheeses should be used within two to three months of freezing and hard cheese within six months.

•Put nutrition first. Many experts agree that eating too many calories is a form of food waste; it can impact health and lead to chronic disease, including obesity. Maximize food choices with healthy, nutrient-rich options. For example, milk, cheese and yogurt provide a unique package of nine essential nutrients, and three daily servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy products have been shown to improve overall diet quality.

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R  O R

Good, Clean Fun at ‘Laughs for Literacy’

By Peggy Werner t’s been said laughter is the best medicine and in a world full of ills, it’s time to take a big dose of an evening filled with clean humor, good food, and music – all for a good cause.

Laughs for Literacy is the major fundraiser for The Literacy Council and will take place this year at 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8 at the University of Illinois College of Medicine, 1601 Parkview Ave. Highlights will include the return of favorite comedian Gerry Grossman, hors d’ oeuvres and desserts provided by Mary’s Market, an open bar of beer and wine, a 50/50 raffle and a new “Barrels of Laughs” drawing for prizes. Those in attendance can buy unlimited $5 tickets, which can be placed in barrels next to about 20 items, with one lucky winner’s name being drawn for each prize that evening. Among prize items are sports

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memorabilia, gift cards, art work, event tickets and outings for families. Morning radio personality Steve Summers of 95.3 The Bull will be master of ceremonies.

Comic Gerry Grossman is nicknamed “the Human Jukebox” for his performances that include classic rock n’ roll music and humor. He has appeared with Who’s Who, John Denver, The Byrds, The Turtles, The Lovin’ Spoonful, Johnny Rivers, Tammy Wynette, Three Dog Night, The Temptations and many other famous names.

Grossman says “magic” happens when you tap into people’s good memories and touch their hearts with song and that’s why requests are a big part of the evening.

“People communicate through music. Laughter breaks through all the barriers of brokenness we each have, and in

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that moment, we are united,” he says.

Literacy Council Executive Director Sheryl Thogerson says people loved Grossman when he performed for the event three years ago.

“No one wanted to leave because they were having so much fun,” she says.

“He sings, tells jokes, gets the audience involved and it’s all good, clean humor.

He’s a real crowd pleaser and perfect for our event. Everyone wanted him back.”

The Literacy Council’s mission is to “empower individuals to achieve” and it relies on volunteers to help learners achieve their goals. Currently, about 100 volunteers are paired with one or more learners, but about 30 people who want to learn are on a waiting list, she says.

“Our mission is to empower people of all ages by helping them improve their reading and writing skills so they

R  O R can advance in their jobs and careers, all at no cost to the learners,” says Thogerson.

In addition to helping adults learn to read at least to a ninthgrade level, Gerry Grossman the council also offers English as a Second Language classes and Adult Basic Education Skills, which teach reading, writing, history and math to those 17 and older who are not in school. Children in kindergarten through third grade who have difficulty reading benefit from the I Read program through a partnership of the United Way of Rock River Valley and The Literacy Council. Teachers also meet with families at Crusader Clinic and Winnebago County Health Department to read to children

and talk to parents about the importance of reading. Each child takes a book home.

“We want children to be excited about reading and to help parents understand the importance of reading as a stepping stone to achieving success in life.”

The Literacy Council services individuals in Boone, Winnebago and Northeast Ogle counties, where more than 40,000 people do not read past the third or fourth grade level, Thogerson says.

“It’s unbelievable, but it’s true.”

A variety of things interrupt the learning process, causing young children to be unable to concentrate at school, she says, including poverty, childhood trauma, domestic violence, learning disabilities and more. In many cases, students don’t meet high school graduation requirements or drop out.

“For adults, there are many reasons that life got in the way and they didn’t complete the education they needed. People come to us because they need help filling out job applications so they can get

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a better job, want to prepare for the GED exam and want to help their own children in school,” she says.

Twelve-hour training sessions are offered monthly for those interested in becoming tutors; online courses are also available. See the training schedule at theliteracycouncil.org.

“We’re always improving our programs and updating our materials to give volunteers the best training and resources possible,” she says.

The Literacy Council is a non-profit group that receives state and federal funding for adult education programs. Additional funding comes from grants, foundations and fundraisers.

Tickets are $45 and can be purchased by calling (815) 963-7323, ext. 11 or by going online at laughsforliteracy19.eventbrite.com. Mail orders can be sent to The Literacy Council at 982 N. Main St., Rockford, IL 61103. Raffle tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20 and you need not be present to win. ❚

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Y K

An Alternative to Fast Food for Busy Folks

By Peggy Werner

W

ith autumn fully underway, everyone is short on time. There are game practices, music lessons, parttime jobs, social life and charity functions, and other activities pushing the calendar into overdrive. Parents have their own work schedule, clubs, meetings and volunteer duties, too.

It’s a wonder families have time to eat at all, but they don’t have to fall into the unhealthy fast food trap.

Countryside Meats & Deli, 781 Highgrove Place, specializes in ready-toeat and ready-to-cook entrees and entire meals, whether for a quick lunch, dinner or special occasion.

“We make it easy for people to stop by and get what they want for a homecooked meal,” says owner Jarrod Bush.

“Or if someone wants something special for dinner, we can make it for you as long as we have the product.”

Just walk into the store and you’ll be surrounded by options. If you can’t make a decision, talk with Bush, who has more than 20 years’ experience and wants only the best for his customers.

In his locally owned and operated store, Bush has a clean, organized and attractive 20-foot-long meat case filled with top quality freshly cut Midwestern beef, pork and poultry.

The store offers a weekly advertised special every Wednesday and other inhouse specials. There are cases full of

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“oven ready” meals such as lasagna, stuffed green peppers, meatballs, Italian beef, pulled BBQ pork, chicken pot pie, chicken Kiev and 25 varieties of bratwurst. There are cheeses and cheese spreads, sauces, dips, seasonings, dressings and marinade. There’s chicken, egg, tuna and crab salad, as well as cole slaw, broccoli slaw, baked beans, potato salad, macaroni salad, Italian pasta salad and creamed or pickled herring.

Gourmet items include four kinds of stuffed chicken breast with ingredients like Prosciutto, fennel, cheese and Italian seasoning; twice-baked and cheesy potatoes; stuffing made with ham and Swiss cheese, apples and cranberries, or traditional bread stuffing; garlic cheese bread and crab cakes. Large Portabella mushrooms filled with crab meat and Swiss cheese or Cheddar cheese and bacon are a favorite. ❚

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Y O

Curtain Falls on Final Hometown Holiday “J

. R. Sullivan’s Hometown Holiday,” one of Rockford’s favorite holiday traditions, will make its final curtain call performance Dec. 13-15 in the Sullivan Theater of the Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St. The seasonal variety show, featuring storytelling, comedy and holiday and popular songs, will mark its 25th anniversary with this production.

Former Rockford resident, E. Faye Butler, will return to join the cast of regional and local musicians and actors including Shawn Wallace, Randy Sabien, Megon McDonough, Marcella Rose-Sciotto, Kayla Carter, Linda Abronski, Stephen F. Vrtol, Lydia Berger Gray, Daniel Patrick Sullivan and Jeff Christian. J. R. Sullivan, founder of the former New American Theater, produces “Hometown Holiday” and closes the show with an all-new Rockford story.

“Hometown Holiday” has been noth-

ing less than a joy to prepare and perform every year since our first show in 1994,” says Sullivan. “Rockford is my hometown. Rockford gave me my start in theater, from a brilliant time at Boylan High School, through my education with great teachers at nearby Beloit College, and then with the establishment of the New American Theater in 1972. Rockford has always stayed with me as my theater work continued in Chicago, New York

and theaters nationwide. It has always been my hope that “Hometown Holiday” would be a way for me to give thanks to Rockford every holiday season. Indeed, so many contributors and thousands of audience members have loved our show and made it an annual holiday tradition for 25 years. This grand finale is to honor that great audience, the audience that gave me – and every one of my fellow artists – their applause and their love.”

In honor of its 25th anniversary, “Hometown Holiday” tickets will be $25 until Dec. 10, and $30 after that date. Show times are 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 13 and 14, and 4 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 15. A reception with cast members will take place after the Saturday evening show. Show and reception tickets are $35. Learn more at Eventbrite. com. ❚

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Y H  G

By Melinda Myers

L

et amaryllis fill your home with flowers for the holidays and keep the blossoms coming all winter long. When you plant several types, from both the southern and northern hemisphere, you can get a long-lasting, colorful show.

Kick off the holiday season with bulbs imported from growers in Peru. As we enter autumn, it’s springtime in South America, and they’re eager to bloom. Pot them up before early November for flowers in December.

Amaryllis varieties grown in the southern hemisphere include deep red Mandela, frosty white Denver, coral-pink Bolero and two-tone Charisma. Combine these impressive blossoms with greens, poinsettias, candles and other holiday décor, or give them as living gifts to friends, family and neighbors.

Most amaryllis bulbs that are grown in the U.S. are imported from Holland,

and their natural bloom time is January through March. Exactly when the flowers will open is impossible to predict. The best strategy is to choose a number of varieties and plant them 3 to 4 weeks apart during November, December and January.

Start your indoor flower display with an early bloomer such as Evergreen, which is always quick to break out of dormancy. Minerva’s extra-large, cherry-red flowers have a white star in the middle and an apple green throat. Apple Blossom is a long-time favorite with snow-white petals brushed with pink and a lime green throat. Or grow a double amaryllis such as Double King with layers of burgundyred petals and up to a dozen flowers.

For best selection, order bulbs early and store them in a cool, dry, dark place until you’re ready to plant. Once you pot up the bulbs and place them in a warm, bright location, flower buds should ap-

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photo courtesy of Longfield-Gardens.com

Plant Now for Holiday Amaryllis Blooms

Double King amaryllis brightens up any room with up to a dozen double blossoms of burgundy-red.

pear in about 6 to 10 weeks.You can count on these showy blooms to lift your spirits and ease your way to spring. ❚

Melinda Myers is the author of “Small Space Gardening.” She hosts the nationallysyndicated “Melinda’s Garden Moment” TV & radio shows. Learn more at MelindaMyers.com

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Y H

How Chiropractic Helps Student Athletes

By Peggy Werner

C

hiropractor Dr. Amanda Klosterman-Bond recently joined the staff at The Joint Chiropractic and looks forward to using her personal experiences and professional skill to help injured student athletes.

A former high school and college softball player and certified trainer, she can relate to the physical, emotional and mental pressures of having to compete.

“I know what they’re going through and chiropractic services can be very beneficial in helping to relieve stress at all levels and to help people recover faster without the side effects of taking drugs,” she says. “Sometimes, pain medicine is necessary, but we all know pain medicine is overused and abused and pain can often be treated without using drugs at all.”

With about 500 locations nationwide, The Joint in Rockford is at Forest

Plaza, 6139 E. State St., next door to Kohl’s. It offers affordable and convenient adjustment appointments seven days a week and a new youth wellness plan offers four adjustments a month for $39. There is also a $59 adult plan.

Her goal is to keep student athletes in the game.

“An injury doesn’t necessarily mean having to miss out on practices and games. An athlete can keep playing while healing, with the proper care and rest. I don’t believe in stopping what you are doing, but you can alter what you are doing and should be able to continue pain-free by making changes in how you move and how efficiently you rest,” she says.

Regular chiropractic adjustments can help relieve neck and back pain as well as pain caused from arthritis, fibromyalgia, headaches, stress and sciatica. Pain in

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specific areas of the body like the knee, ankle, foot, shoulder, and elbow can be treated, she says, adding that routine visits may also help in the early detection of other problems.

The Joint is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Walk-ins are always welcome.

For more information, visit thejoint. com or call the clinic at (815) 977-4316. ❚

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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

Autumn Fun

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

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Attractions & Events

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.

RAM: Bold Abstractions Now thru Jan. 26, daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Featuring paintings from the Thoma collecRockford, IL 61101 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com tion, exploring new forms of abstract painting from the 1960s. RAM, (815) 968-2787, rockfordartmuseum.org.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

Wings of Wonder: The Lorikeet Exhibit Now thru Nov. 10, Tues.-Sun. Get an intimate look into the fascinating world of these playful birds. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. 2nd St., Rockford. (815) 987-8858.

Sycamore Pumpkin Festival Oct. 23-27, events daily. Thousands of pumpkins decorate the courthouse lawn, with a Wild West theme. Parade on Sun. Sycamore Courthouse & Downtown, 133 W. State St., sycamorepumpkinfestival.com.

What’s Funny After 50?

Oct. 25, 7:30 p.m. When comedian Dan St. Paul discovered his body changing after he turned 50, he decided to invite others to find the humor in it as well. MAC, Monroe, Wis., (608) 325-5700, monroeartscenter.org.

Rock-Con Game Convention Oct. 25-27, Fri. 2-11 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. to 3 p.m. Historical and fantasy miniature gaming, collectible miniatures, role-playing, board gaming and more. Tebala Event Center, 7910 Newburg Road, Rockford, (815) 4941365, rock-con.com.

Disney on Ice Presents: Dream Big Oct. 25-27, Fri. 7 p.m.; Sat. 11 a.m., 3 & 7 p.m.; Sun. 1 & 5 p.m. Discover the bravery of Moana, Jasmine, Ariel, Aurora, Belle & Cinderella.

BMO Bank Center, 300 Elm St., (815) 9685222, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com.

Katie's Cup - Saturday Midday Music Oct. 26, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Emerald Wind is a gifted sister duo creating beauty and serenity on harp and flute. 502 7th St., Rockford. Learn more at Katiescup.com.

'On Golden Pond' Oct. 25-Nov. 3, Fri.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m.

Cantankerous Norman Thayer and wife Ethel spend summers at their New England vacation home. Janesville Little Theatre, 906 W. Racine St., (608) 756-4172‎, janesvilletheatre.org.

Enjoy spooky fun this week!

RSO: The Last Night of the Proms Oct. 26, 7:30 p.m. Orchestra favorites, popular sing-alongs, sentimental tunes, including “Sweet Caroline,” “Sound of Music,” “William Tell Overture,” and “Rock Around the Clock.”

Coronado PAC, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

AJG: Spook-Tacular Haunts Oct. 26, 2-5 p.m. Hoo-Haven Wildlife Rehabilitation & Education Center brings birds and animals to the garden for families to experience at this Halloween event. Children are invited to come in costume and trick-or-treat through the gardens and enjoy fun and spooky activities. Anderson Japanese Gardens, (815) 229-9390, andersongardens.org.

Halloween Fun at Discovery Center Oct. 26, 9-10 a.m. Children with disabilities and their immediate families are invited to experience the center’s exhibit before the museum opens to the public. Come in costume for an hour of fun. Reg. online or at (815) 972-2839. Discovery Center Museum, (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

Renaissance Faire Game Day Oct. 26, 1-7 p.m. A day of games fit for the entire family, with activities such as mancala, fox and geese, 9 Man Morris, historic riddles and more. Don a period costume if you have one. Mystic Moraine Minerals, 500 W. Milwaukee St., Janesville, (608) 563-0223, janescvb.com.

Swan Lake Oct. 26, 7:30 p.m. The Russian Ballet Theatre’s new production of Tchaikovsky’s timeless classic. Egyptian Theatre, DeKalb, Ill., (815) 7581215, egyptiantheatre.org. ❚

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Oct. 23

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WDL

Restaurant of the Week

Authentic Mexican Cuisine at Dos Reales

By Paul Anthony Arco

D

(Samantha Ryan photos)

os Reales, 5855 E. State St., Rockford, has been serving up authentic Mexican fare since 1998, along with some American favorites and signature margaritas, in an intimate yet fun atmosphere.

Dos Reales features several Mexican signature items on its recently updated menu: burrito cheese steak, chimichangas and appetizers such as guacamole ranchero. Newer dishes include 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. There are nontraditional dishes, too, such as chicken wings, burgers and french fries.

“There’s a misconception that all Mexican food is hot,” says Jose Gonzalez, Dos Reales’s manager. “All of our dishes are mild unless guests request them to be spicy.

We prepare everything from scratch and Jose Gonzalez purchase our products from local sources.”

Dos Reales offers gluten-free options and has always used fresh, preservative-free corn tortillas, chips and vegetable oil in its cooking.

Recently, Dos Reales underwent a major renovation – its parking lot was repaved, the main dining room was repainted, new flooring and a new roof were installed and the kitchen received extensive upgrades.

There’s a new bar, where customers gather for what Gonzalez calls the “best margaritas in town.” Drink specials are popular on Monday and Tuesday evenings. Live music is featured every other Friday.

The main dining room seats 100, and the back dining area can be reserved for private events. Carry-out and catering are also offered. Dos Reales is open Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and Fri.Sat. until 10:30 p.m. ❚ ❚

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Baci’s Kitchen  Fast-Casual, dine-in, carry-out. 2990 N. Perryville Road, inside A Perryville Place. (815) 329-6922. Open 7 days/wk. at 8 a.m. BkLD. Complete menu at Baciskitchen.com.

Backyard Grill & Bar  Casual/American. 5390 Elevator Road, Roscoe, Ill., (815) 623-6677. 2nd St., Loves Park, Ill., (815) 6369430. LD M-Th 11am-midnight, F-Sat to 2am, Sun noon-10 p.m. $-SS. Bravo Pizza  Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, S. Beloit, Ill., (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $.

Ciao Bella Ristorante Upscale-Casual/Italian-American.

Daily specials. 6500 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, Ill. (815) 654-9900. LD M-F 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 5-10 p.m. $$ Cucina di Rosa  Italian Bistro/Bakery 1620 Bell School Road, (815) 395-5040. BkLD. M-Sat 7am-9pm. $$ Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant  Casual/Mexican. 5855 E. State St., (815) 227-4979. LD $-$$.

Fresco at the Gardens.  Casual/American Café. 318 Spring Creek Road, (815) 316-2256. BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$ Giordano’s  Casual/Italian. Stuffed pizza, salads, entrees, sandwiches, desserts. 33 Executive Parkway, Rockford, (815) 398-5700. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11 pm.

Hearthrock Cafe  Restaurant/cafe. Baked goods, coffee, breakfast, lunch. Inside Benson Stone Co., 1100 11th St., (815) 227-2000. BkL M-F 7:30am-3pm; Sat. 8am-3pm. $-$$.

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Lino’s  Italian/American. 5611 E. State St., Rkfd. (815) 397-2077. D M-Sat 4:30am-10pm; Sun. 4:30am-9 pm. $$.

Maciano’s  Casual Italian. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, (815) 633-7500; & 5801 Columbia Pkwy., Rkfd., (815) 227-5577. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $-$$.

Mary’s Market Cafe & Bakery  Baked goods, sandwiches, salads. 2636 McFarland Road, Rockford, (815) 986-3300; 1659 N. Alpine Road, Rockford, (815) 394-0765; 4431 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 397-7291. BkLD Hours vary by location. $.

Olympic Tavern  Upscale-Casual/American. 2327 N. Main St., (815) 962-8758. Extensive beer list. LD M-Th 11 a.m.-midnight; Fri-Sat. to 2 a.m. $-$$.

Prairie Street Brewhouse  Upscale-Casual/American.

200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$.

Salamone’s North  Italian-American. 2583 N. Mulford Road, Rkfd. LD. Sun. noon-10 p.m.; Mon.-Th 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat. noon-11 p.m. (815) 639-1200 Stockholm Inn  Casual/American, Scandinavian emphasis.

2420 Charles St., Rockford, (815) 397-3534. BkLD M-Sat., Sun. brkfst. only. M-Th 7a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri. & Sat. 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sun. 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Weekend brunch. Large menu, Swedish pancakes specialty. $$ Taco Betty’s  Casual/Mexican-American. 212 E. State St., Rkfd., (815) 977-5650. LD Daily 11am-1am. $$. ❚

Oct. 23

To advertise call 815-316-2300

In the Spotlight

Hearthrock Cafe

B

enson Stone Company’s Hearthrock Café has introduced new items to its already-popular menu. Head Chef Todd Cooper is following the popular farm-totable trend, working with seasonal and fresh ingredients as much as possible.

One of his most popular new creations is the Smoked Andouille Sausage Flatbread, with a homemade Marinara sauce, fresh mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, red pepper and mushrooms.

There’s also a new Benson Reuben sandwich, made with homemade sauce and pickled red cabbage.

Fresh salads include apple walnut, mandarin orange, garden, spinach or Caesar, iwith optional chicken or bacon.

Hearthrock Café hours are Mon.Fri. 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and Sat. 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Breakfast is served until 11 a.m. Benson Stone Company is located at 1100 11th St. in Rockford. Learn more at BensonStone. com/hearthrock. ❚

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Oct. 23

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Oct. 23

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To advertise call 815-316-2300

Y T

Overcoming Your Fear of Technology

By Peggy Werner

B

arbara Reynolds, 68, is living proof that it’s not only healthy, but also empowering, to face your fears.

Not long ago, she was well aware of all the technological advances around her but wasn’t willing to take the leap of pursuing them. However, when rising costs to use her “bundled” telephone, television, internet and home security systems were getting out of control, she had no choice but to go look for a better way.

That’s when she sought out the services of Charles Zambrano, owner and general manager of EZ Satellite and Wireless, 6239 N. 2nd St., Loves Park, Ill., who has built his business around helping people save money, time, and energy.

Reynolds cut her bills in half. A year later, she bought a Nest programmable thermostat and video doorbell with motion activated alerts, and an Alexa, which is an Amazon echo voice activated

device – all of which can be monitored and controlled from her Smartphone.

It was a lot of change for her, but with Zambrano’s help, she found out just how much better life can be.

“So many people are afraid of change, but they don’t realize how easy it is to make a change, save money, and live a more comfortable life,” says Zambrano.

“We take our customers by the hand and walk them through the whole process.”

Reynolds admits it was a frightening experience, at first.

“I was very nervous, but these

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upgrades have made my life so much better,” she says.

“The Nest thermostat learns your comfort levels, the video doorbell lets you know when a package is delivered and you can talk with someone at your door when you’re not home.

Alexa tells me the weather forecast, can order online and make phone calls, plays music, finds a recipe, and reminds me to give my dog his medicine.

“All I can think of now is just how amazing it is and everything works together. I feel so much more in control of my life and I don’t worry as much.

Once you learn what you need to know, it’s easy.”

EZ Satellite &Wireless is an authorized DISH network retailer licensed to offer services from a long list of providers. Learn more by calling (815) 9574335 or stop by the office. ❚

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