Smart Living Weekly - January 18, 2017

Sm mart a r t L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • January 18, 2017

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Right in Our Region

Rachel Barton Pine to Perform with RSO

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WWI Symposium at Midway Village Better Balance for Family Meals Kitchen Design Trends Financial Tips for 2017 Get Fit with PSX Training

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Smart Living Weekly

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 20 Professional Violinist Comes to Coronado Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Design Trends for 2017 Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Love Your Enemies Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Panzanella Salad Your Pets .............................................................9 Why Grooming Your Pet is Important Your Health ............................................. .......... 25 Improving ConďŹ dence and Strength Your Fun ................................................... ......... 27

Your Outings ................................................ 17,19 Abominable Snow Race and WWI Symposium Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 29 Your Money ................................................. ......33 A Secure Financial Future

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 Deputy Editor Jermaine Pigee Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Ryan Contributing Writers Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes Advertising Sales Representatives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones, Bob Ulmer 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 2017 by Hughes Media Corp., 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

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Illinois Led MLK Day

T

his week we recognize Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal holiday signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1983. The feds decided on the third Monday of January because King’s birthday was Jan. 15.

Did you know Illinois was already celebrating this holiday? The state enacted it in 1973, just five years after the beloved civil rights leader was slain.

Not everyone was happy about the new holiday. Utah became the last state to adopt MLK Day by name, in 2000. The same year, South Carolina became the last state to make MLK Day a paid holiday for its state employees; before that, they could choose between celebrating it or one of three Confederate-related holidays.

As his first act in office, then-Arizona governor Evan Mecham rescinded MLK Day, in 1987, which set off a tourism boycott and caused the NFL to move its 1991 Super Bowl site from Phoenix to Pasadena, Calif. The following year, Arizona citizens voted to enact MLK Day. I was 7 years old, on April 4, 1968, when Rev. Dr. King was murdered in Memphis around suppertime. Our family was about to attend a Marshall Middle School band concert in Loves Park. Mom got word of the assassination while working at the sink and burst into tears.

I grew up learning about King’s beliefs, accomplishments and methods of non-violent resistance. He always taught within a context of Christian love, not hate. Only recently have I begun to read through his sermons online.

His absolute belief in the power of love to effect change was stunning.

In 1954 King wrote: “I decided early to give my life to something eternal and absolute.

Not to these little gods that are here today and gone tomorrow, but to God who is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”

Nearly 50 years after his death, he’s still changing hearts.

What a legacy. Have a great week! ❚ Janine Pumilia Managing Editor

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Jan 18

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Healthy Pets Need Grooming

By Peggy Werner

G

ood grooming for cats and dogs helps animals to feel better, and can even make them look fashionable.

Angie Johnson, owner of All Paws Beauty Salon and Day Care, 130 N. 1st St., in Rockford since 2006, has been in the pet grooming business most of her life. Her mom worked as a veterinarian technician and recruited her daughter’s help when needed.

Johnson also helps groom pets at no cost for Noah’s Ark, to help the animals get adopted.

Even if you want your animal to have long hair, it needs to be groomed on a regular schedule, year round. Toenails left untrimmed can cause a dog to have arthritis. Cat claws can grow too long and into the soft pads of their paws. And ear infections are reduced with regular cleaning.

“Not all animals are crazy about being groomed, but if they stay on a schedule,

they feel loved and cared for,” Johnson says, adding that a gentle massage while bathing an animal can help the pet relax.

Neglect hurts.

“If the hair gets all knotted up, it can be painful when brushed, and matted-up hair can cause skin irritations, which can lead to infection, because the skin is not able to breathe,” she says.

Regular grooming can also help pet owners feel their breed is trendy. For ex-

ample, a dog Mohawk cut is popular and only those breeds with thick, curly or wavy hair can pull it off.

The lion cut looks good on Persians, Himalayans and other long-haired cats.

When trimming the fur, Johnson leaves a “mane” around the neck, “boots” on its feet and a “poof” at the end of the tail.

Depending on the breed, grooming may be needed monthly or, at minimum, four times a year. ❚

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Y H  G

2017 Kitchen Trend: Calmness Prevails

By Janine Pumilia, managing editor

T

he kitchen is the heart of the home and the most important room to upgrade for improved resale value. In 2017, texture is in and busy-and-bright are out.

Calm hues prevail. Easy maintenance is a must, and there’s an interesting mix of rustic and elegant qualities afoot.

“We see more emphasis on texture contrast than color contrast right now,” says Erin Meyers-Knabe, kitchen and bathroom design consultant at Benson Stone Co., 1100 11th St., Rockford. She points to a showroom model kitchen with white cabinets and soft gray-blue walls.

The marble-topped island has subtle gray vein movement.

Overhead, a glass chandelier sparkles. Underfoot is a dark wood floor with a rustic finish. Other countertops in the room are solid gray quartz. A gorgeous laser-cut marble tile backsplash climbs the wall to the ceiling, framing the stove

hood. Ribbons of gray-blue in this tile offer subtle interest.

“A white kitchen can feel too stark if you don’t have texture and some movement,” explains Knabe.

Classic white-painted cabinets are always in style, but she describes today’s white as “creamier, not stark.”

Medium-brown wood tone cabinets are on trend. Favorite species include maple and cherry, but not oak.

“Neutral brown and gray stains are in, but not reddish browns,” she says.

“Very dark cabinets aren’t out of date, but they’re losing ground. Gray is still very popular, but is moving toward a warmer shade, closer to a taupe.”

Mixing wood stains and paint colors is a good idea, such as using a navy blue painted island in a white kitchen. Likewise, a maple wood cabinet may com-

plement gray-stained cabinetry. Today’s designers strive to break up monolithic cabinetry in favor of a more furniturelike look.

For countertops, granite and quartz remain top-sellers at Benson Stone Co. To maintain a home’s optimal value, designers recommend updating the kitchen at least every 10 years.

“We try to do things in ways that make the room as timeless as possible,” says Knabe. “When people get tired of the look, there are often ways to change things up without a major overhaul.” ❚

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I  W

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that.

Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.”

– The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Love Your Enemies

T

he following is an excerpt from a sermon delivered 60 years ago by The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King in Montgomery, Ala. Read or listen to the entire sermon at ipoet.com. The context is Matthew 5:43-44, when Jesus says: “Ye have heard that it has been said, ‘Thou shall love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy.’ But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them that despitefully use you; that ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven.”

“Men must see that force begets force, hate begets hate, toughness begets toughness. And it is all a descending spiral, ultimately ending in destruction for all and everybody. Somebody must have sense enough and morality enough to cut off the chain of hate and the chain of evil in the universe. And you do that by love… “… hate distorts the personality of the hater …You begin hating somebody, and you will begin to do irrational things.

You can’t see straight when you hate. You can’t walk straight when you hate. You can’t stand upright. Your vision is distorted. There is nothing more tragic than to see an individual whose heart is filled with hate. He comes to the point that he becomes a pathological case.

“For the person who hates, the beautiful becomes ugly and the ugly becomes beautiful. For the person who hates, the good becomes bad and the bad becomes good. For the person who hates, the true becomes false and the false becomes true. “…Never hate, because it ends up in tragic, neurotic responses … And modern psychology is calling on us now to love.

But long before modern psychology came into being, the world’s greatest psychologist who walked around the hills of Galilee told us to love…” ❚ 12

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Jan 18 To advertise call 815-316-2300

PreK-12 Open House Sunday, January 29, 2017 1:00-3:00PM Rockford Lutheran School is more than any one classroom or single grade. With a program beginning in preschool and ending with students acquiring college credit, we walk with families as their young people develop and mature in a Christ-centered environment. Rockford Lutheran offers academics, athletics, arts, and activities that not only prepare our students for college, but for life as well-rounded, solid citizens.

Our school is spread across three campuses in Rockford, Illinois.

We invite families to join us on Sunday, January 29th from 1pm-3pm to discover more about the full range of educational opportunities available for their preschool through 12th grade student.

Families will be given the opportunity to take a tour and meet some of our gifted and dedicated teachers.

PRESCHOOL at Mt. Olive Church 2001 N. Alpine Road ROCKFORD LUTHERAN ACADEMY Grades K-5 1711 Delcy Drive JR/SR HIGH Grades 6-12 3411 N. Alpine Road

www.RockfordLutheran.org Please contact Julie Behmer, Director of Admissions, at 815-877-9551 ext. 158 or jbehmer@rockfordlutheran.org with any questions.

Rockford Lutheran School admits students of any race, color, nationality or ethnic origin.

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Y K

Find Better Balance for Family Meals T

his New Year, set a realistic resolution to take time to sit down with your family and eat balanced meals together. A few simple solutions and a dash of inspiration are all you need to set the tone for a year of health and wellness.

Last year, Americans were only meeting the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s MyPlate recommendations for vegetables, fruit, protein, dairy and grain consumption one week out of the entire year. While many families try to cook nutritious meals at home, a balanced plate can be hard to achieve. Educational programs, such as Nestlé’s Balance Your Plate, make it simple to create delicious and balanced meals by pairing frozen prepared meals and pizzas with madefrom-scratch side dishes, which makes meeting the dietary guidelines a more attainable goal.

By pairing Stouffer’s Lasagna with Meat & Sauce, made with ingredients you

would find in your own kitchen cupboard, with a homemade Panzanella Salad and Garlic Roasted Asparagus with Tomatoes and Balsamic, it’s easy to create a familyfriendly meal without the hassle.

Find more simple, delicious and well-balanced meal ideas to share with your family at nestleusa.com/nutrition/ balance.

Panzanella Salad

Recipe courtesy of The TomKat Studio blog on behalf of Stouffer’s Ingredients: 1 whole wheat baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes 4 TB extra-virgin olive oil, divided 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 TB Dijon mustard 3 TB red wine vinegar salt, to taste pepper, to taste 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved 1 hothouse cucumber, diced

3 assorted bell peppers, diced 1/2 red onion, diced 10 sprigs basil leaves, julienned Preparation: On baking sheet, spread bread in single layer and drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Bake 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove and set aside. In bowl, whisk together garlic, mustard, vinegar, salt and pepper with remaining olive oil to make vinaigrette. In large bowl, toss ingredients together, making sure to coat all ingredients with vinaigrette. Serve immediately. ❚

Source: Family Features

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Y O

Abominable Snow Race Offers Winter Fun

By Peggy Werner

A

t a time of year when most people are taking a break, the second annual Abominable Snow Race challenges them to get up, get outside, set goals, and raise money for charity.

This year, the family-friendly obstacle course, for all levels of ability, will be Saturday, Jan. 28 at The Mountain Grand Geneva Ski Resort in Lake Geneva, Wis. There are three race categories: the Elite Heat at 8 a.m., the Hero’s Heat at 9 a.m., and Open “Fun” Heats every 20 minutes until 2 p.m. – all with 20 or more obstacles along a snowy 4.4 mile path.

Prizes will be awarded to the top three men and women in each race category, while all participants will receive an Abominable Snow Race T-shirt, beanie hat and free craft beer (or hot chocolate, for those under 21.)

“There’s plenty to do for the entire family this year,” says Race Director Bill Wolfe. Kids aged 4 to 11 can race an eight-obstacle course every 30 minutes

beginning at 10 a.m. and can have their picture taken with Yeti, the abominable snowman. Everyone will enjoy music from 2 to 5 p.m. by Future Stuff, a folk/ pop band from Chicagoland.

“Most of the people are not in it for the prizes, but rather are looking to experience something they thought they could never do,” says Wolfe. “It’s a way to get outside in the winter and connect with that inner child; it’s a chance to play in the snow.”

Last year, about 1,200 people raced and Wolfe is expecting more than 2,000 this year. People from more than 25 states have registered, he says.

The for-profit race has again partnered with Transition Living Services, a non-profit organization in McHenry County that helps homeless veterans get off the streets and on their feet, by providing housing, employment assistance, food from the local pantry, and other support services.

Oscar Mike is the exclusive sponsor of the “Heroes” heat for veterans, firefighters, police and first responders. This foundation wants to see all injured veterans use their full potential to live rewarding and productive lives.

All racers have something in common, Wolfe says.

“Each racer is trying to overcome a personal obstacle, individually or as a team,” says Wolfe. “Some are going for the top prize while most are looking for a fun new challenge and a chance to play in the snow.

Racers come from all walks of life to conquer the Abominable Snow Race, and while the individual mission may be different for each of

us, there’s no doubt we are all connected by our human spirit to take Winter headon and wrestle it to the ground.”

Wolfe was a track and field star in high school and college, but got away from organized sports, while working toward a finance career. Then, he discovered obstacle racing.

“It gave me the same feeling I got from running track and field. It’s an individual sport, but you’re part of something bigger and connecting with people.

For me, it is very personal. I needed an outlet for physical fitness and to be with others,” he says.

Some of the obstacles include The Blizzard, a 300-foot climb and descent in simulated blizzard conditions; The Cold Snap, a 9-foot inverted wall climb; The Winter Weaver, a military-style challenge requiring races to make their way over and under a series of bars, without touching the ground; and The Alaskan Oil Rig, a 17-foot climb up an oil rig-type structure. New this year is The Rocky Sled Pull, which requires people to pull a fully-loaded sled 40 yards while combating blowing snow.

Sign up to race, volunteer, and donate at AbominableSnowRace.com. ❚

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Y O

WW I Symposium at Midway Village T he 2017 Connecting With History Series kicks off with“Impact of The Great War: World War I” at Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, on Jan. 21 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

The series continues through March with a variety of lectures relating to Rockford history, including a community forum titled “The Past, Present and Future of Housing in Rockford.” The five lectures are each 90 minutes in length. Early reservations are encouraged for programs in the series, with walks-ins also welcome.

The results of World War I have impacted our country’s and the world’s affairs ever since. For example, as a result of the war, the U.S. reluctantly became a leader in world affairs; the League of Nations, predecessor to the United Nations, and the foundations of the current situa-

tion in the Middle East were laid.

Many people are aware of how the Treaty of Versailles planted the seeds for World War II, but few are aware of how its legacy continues to affect us, from massacres in Paris to shootings in America. Josh Fulton will untangle the web of intrigue that set the stage for modern events and the War on Terrorism.

Thousands of Illinois’ young men answered the call to arms. Using regimental histories and letters from soldiers, Dr. Christopher McDonald will share his research into the Illinois regiments that fought in the War, their experiences and its impact on veterans.

When the U.S. entered the first World War, the U. S. Army began looking at states on which to build a National Army Cantonment. Rockford was chosen to receive one of these new National

Army Induction and Training Centers.

Hear how pristine farmland south of Rockford was transformed into a massive Army facility. Camp Grant, at its height, accommodated more than 50,000 troops at one time.

Cost for the symposium is $35, $25 for museum members and $20 for students. For a program guide to the entire series, email your postal address to admin@midwayvillage.com, and you will recieve a complete brochure with registration form. View more details online and purchase reservations at midwayvillage.com. ❚

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R  O R

A Great Violinist Visits the Coronado

By Lindsey Gapen, assistant managing editor

O

ne of America’s greatest violinists, Rachel Barton Pine, joins the Rockford Symphony Orchestra (RSO) on Jan. 21 at 7:30 p.m. for a diverse concert at the Coronado Performing Arts Center.

“Her mastery of the instrument, insightful and passionate performances, beautiful sound, and engaging presence have made her one of the RSO’s favorite soloists,” says Michele McAffee, RSO marketing director. “This concert has something for everyone, from classic violin and baroque to a rocking electric violin concerto.”

Pine is known for her stunning ability to interpret classical masterpieces. The RSO expects her to dazzle the audience with her strong technique, lustrous tone and emotional honesty.

Pine plans to play three violins throughout the show, with three varied

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techniques. First, she’ll enchant the audience with a baroque bow, shaped more like an archery bow with less tension on the hair, before moving into techniques of the 21st century. She’ll end the concert with Beloit native Tracy Silverman’s “Anthem 25” on electric violin.

The varied techniques take the audience on a journey through violin history.

“This will be the violin equivalent of going from Andres Segovia to Jimi Hendrix,” McAffee says. “It’s guaranteed excitement. With an infectious joy in music-making and a passion for connecting historical research to performance, Pine transforms audiences’ experiences of classical music.”

Pine has appeared as a soloist with many of the world’s most prestigious ensembles, including the Chicago Symphony; the Philadelphia Orchestra; the Royal

Jan 18 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Philharmonic; and the Netherlands Radio Kamer Filharmonie. She has worked with such renowned conductors as Charles Dutoit, Zubin Mehta, Erich Leinsdorf, Neeme Järvi and Marin Alsop.

The RSO is the backdrop to Pine’s soloist work. It ends the concert with one of Wolfgang Mozart’s last three symphonies – No. 40. The piece is considered to be one of Mozart’s greatest works, and therefore one of the greatest of all symphonies.

Together, Pine and the RSO are bringing something new, fresh and exciting to Rockford.

“Rachel, along with the RSO strings, perform with baroque-era bows to accurately replicate the sound of that time period,” McAffee says. “It was Rachel’s suggestion and she made the arrangements to have the bows available for our

R  O R Orchestra Box Office at (815) 965-0049.

Ticket prices range from $22 to $60. Student tickets are available for $7.

A More In-Depth Look

players.”

And of course, having the performance in the ornately decorated Coronado Theater only enhances the experience.

“The Coronado is our performance home,” McAffee says. “The ambiance and acoustics are stunning.”

Tickets for the concert are available online at rockfordsymphony.com or by calling the Rockford Symphony

Pine opens the concert with Pietro Antonio Locatelli’s violin concerto in D Major, op. 3, no. 12, “The Harmonic Labyrinth.”

Before Pietro Antonio Locatelli died in Amsterdam in 1764, his Opus 3 volume of 12 violin concertos was published in 1733. The score calls for a solo violinist accompanied by a string orchestra with continuo. The duration of the piece is about 18 minutes.

Next, Pine tackles Antonio Vivaldi’s concerto in D minor for viola d’amore and strings. The dates of composition and first performance are unknown, though Vivaldi lived from 1678-1741. In addition to a violin soloist, the score calls for an orchestra of strings and continuo. The duration is about 11 minutes.

Spanish rhythms make an entrance

for Pine’s next piece, Camille Saint Saen’s introduction et Rondo Capriccioso, op. 28 – originally composed for the Spanish violinist Pablo de Sarasate. In addition to the solo violin, the score calls for pairs of flutes, oboes, clarinets, bassoons, horns and trumpets, plus timpani and strings. The duration is about 10 minutes.

Finally, Pine finishes with Tracy Silverman’s “Anthem 25” for electric violin and orchestra, originally composed for the 25th anniversary season of the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra. The duration is about six minutes.

The RSO closes the concert with Wolfgang Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 in G minor. Mozart completed the piece on July 25, 1788. The score originally called for a flute and two each of oboes, bassoons and horns, plus strings. Later, however, Mozart rewrote the piece to include clarinets, which will be used in this performance. The duration is about 35 minutes. ❚

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Y H

PSX Improves Confidence and Health

By Jermaine Pigee, deputy editor

I

f you want to get stronger, faster and healthier in 2017, PSX at Peak Sports Club may help you.

The PSX training facility, which opened last spring, consists of high intensity group workouts designed to increase lean muscle and burn body fat.

“You will get stronger, faster, more flexible and more conditioned if you do this workout at least three times a week,” says Nicholas Dal Pra, fitness director and trainer at Peak Fitness.

The 4,950-square-foot facility is attached to the north side of Peak Sports Club, 4401 Peak Drive, Loves Park. The facility, which is adjacent to the weight training room, features a large, open space for trainers to lead small group workouts, which focus on high-intensity interval training.

The workouts can be scaled and

modified to match your ability and experience.

There is a variety of gym equipment that is used in each workout, such as free weights, power racks, turf sleds and plyometric boxes.

“You’re getting programming and coaching in this program, whereas, when you pay for this gym or another gym, you’re basically on your own,” Dal Pra says. “Here, it’s 100 percent controlled.”

PSX was the brainchild of Mark Banz, founder and president of Peak Fitness. In addition to the Loves Park location, he also runs Peak Fitness at 4304 E. State St., in Rockford.

“Group training is a growing trend in the industry and it’s a way to make personal training more available and more

affordable for more people,” Banz says.

“The fundamental aspect of group training has grown over the years, and now group training classes have their own dedicated space.”

Workout classes take place at different times Monday through Saturday and each class has a range of eight to 14 people.

Visit peakfitnessusa.com for more information or call (815) 877-4401. ❚

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ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION REDISCOVER BURPEE Mingled Visions: Images from The North American Indian Collection by Edward S. Curtis. Organized by Dubuque Museum of Art, Dubuque, Iowa.

th

REDISCOVER the treasure trove of artifacts, specimens and memorabilia in the museum collection, alongside 3 newly developed exhibits ! www.burpee.org 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

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NOVEMBER 11TH, 2016 - APRIL 2017

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Jan 18

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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 Dreams: Jungle Fantasy Jan. 18, 7:30 p.m. This show is an exotic encounter inspired by nature’s unpredictable creations, brought to life1.800.521.0849 by an international cast of soaring Rockford, IL 61101 gorockford.com aerialists, spine-bending contortionists, acrobats, jugglers and musicians. Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition Jan. 18-21, Wed.-Sat., viewing hours sunrise until 10:30 p.m. Awards ceremony Sat. 1 p.m. As many as 70,000 visitors view these massive works of snow art each year. Teams from around the state compete for the right to represent Illinois in the 2018 U.S. National Snow Sculpting Competition.

Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. 2nd St., Rockford, (815) 987-8800, ilsnowsculpting.com.

Coffee with the Curator Jan. 20, 10-11 a.m. Rockford Art Museum’s Curator, Carrie Johnson, discusses the latest feature exhibition. Join the lively conversation while enjoying a cup of coffee. Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 9682787, rockfordartmuseum.org.

LOLTOS: Organ Concert Jan. 21, 9:30 a.m. The Land of Lincoln Theatre Organ Society hosts a free organ concert with Stan Zimmerman as guest artist. Donations welcome. Coronado Performing Arts Center, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

Impact of the Great War: WWI Jan. 21, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. During this centennial year of American involvement in World War I, learn how the war changed the lives of Americans forever. Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, (815) 397-9112, midwayvillage.com.

Spectacular Saturday: Japan Jan. 21, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Learn about the arts, culture and history of Japan. Midway Village Museum, Rockford, (815) 397-9112, midwayvillage.com.

Burpee Explorers: Wild Things of the Night Jan. 21, 1-2:30 p.m. Explore the world of nocturnal animals and study their special adaptations that make nightly foraging possible. Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St., Rockford, burpee.org.

Snowshoe hike through Klehm Arboretum on Jan. 21 from 2-4 p.m.

Klehm Arboretum Snowshoe Hike Jan. 21, 2-4 p.m. Experience one of the fastest growing winter activities in the beautiful scenery of Klehm Arboretum. There is an instructional component and gear is included. Klehm Arboretum and Botanic Garden 2715 S. Main St., (815) 636-9066, rocktownadventures.com.

The Three Violins of Rachel Barton Pine Jan. 21, 7:30-9:30 p.m., pre-concert lecture with Maestro Steven Larsen at 6:30 p.m. This classical concert features Rachel Barton Pine on the violin, viola d’amore and electric violin. Coronado Performing Arts Center, Rockford, (815) 9680595, coronadopac.org.

Book Talk: “The Underground Railroad” Jan. 24, 6:30-7:45 p.m. Discuss “The Underground Railroad” by Colson Whitehead, a Pulitzer Prize finalist. Rockford Public Library, Central Location, 215 N. Wyman St., Rockford, (815) 9657606, rockfordpubliclibrary.org.

Rockford University Dance Concert Jan. 26-28, 7:30 p.m. See the dancers of Rockford University under the direction of Assistant Professor of Dance Amy Wright. Rockford University, Maddox Theatre, 5050 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 226-4000, Rockford.edu.

Botany Lab: Hibernation & Migration Jan. 28, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Have you ever wondered what happens to the fish, ducks and turtles in the lagoon over the winter? What about the flowers? Learn various methods that plants and animals use to survive our harsh winters. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. 2nd St., Rockford, (815) 987-8858, nicholasconservatory.com. ❚

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WDL

Restaurant of the Week

‘Something Different’ At GreenFire Restaurant

I

f you’re looking for a unique dining experience, look no further than GreenFire Restaurant, Bar and Bakery, 6795 E. Riverside Blvd.

Shendet Ismajlaj, owner for the past year, has a long history of working in Rockford area restaurants and is now carrying on the dream of late owner and founder Philippe Forcioli, who owned Café Patou and then opened GreenFire.

“I worked with Philippe for several years and never met anyone who could cook like him,” says Ismajlaj.

GreenFire is an American-contemporary farm restaurant, bar and bakery that uses only natural, fresh and seasonal ingredients, with everything cooked in stateof-the-art wood stone ovens.

“We offer something for everyone,

but we cater to the individual who wants to try something different,” says Ismajlaj. “People tell us there is nothing like it anywhere. We are known for our customer service, quality of food and unique flavor combinations.”

For breakfast, unique choices include tequila French toast, caramel apple pecan French toast, avocado eggs Benedict, wild berries crepes, and apple cider pancakes.

Appetizers include treats such as gorgonzola stuffed dates wrapped in applewood smoked duck bacon, with blackberry gastrique.

For lunch and dinner, there’s a wide selection of salads, meat entrees, seafood dishes, burgers, pasta, wood fire pizza and those delicious crepes made famous by Café Patou.

(Blake Nunes photo)

By Peggy Werner

Shendet Ismajlaj, owner of GreenFire

On any given week, at least a dozen kinds of dessert are featured, the most popular one being a flourless, dense chocolate torte.There are regular and featured daily specials, as well as dinner pizzas for $10 after 10 p.m. every day. Learn more by calling GreenFire at (815) 316-3473. ❚

In the Spotlight

Top Picks for Local Restaurants

GreenFire EUpscale-Casual/American contemporary. Seasonal cuisine; local-sourced ingredients; gourmet market; 9 East Coffee E Casual/Coffeehouse. Specialty coffees, pas- live entertainment. 6795 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, (815) tries, breakfast, lunch. 9 E. Stephenson St., Freeport, (815) 316-3473. BkLD M-F 11am; Sat-Sun 8 am. Bar open late. $$.

233-7300, BkL M-F 7am-3pm, Sat 7am-2pm. $ JMK Nippon Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar E UpscaleArturo’s Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Authentic Mexican. Casual. Food cooked tableside. 2551 N. Perryville, Rockford, 107 W. Main St., Poplar Grove, Ill., (815) 765-1144. LD M 11am- (815) 877-0505. L T-F 11:30am-2pm, Sat to 2:30pm; D M-Th 8pm; T-Th to 9pm; F to 10pm; Sun noon-8pm. $.

5-9:30pm, F-Sat to 10:30pm, Sun 4:30-9:30pm. $$.

Bravo Pizza E Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, South Be- Local Dough Cafe E Restaurant/cafe. Baked goods, breakloit, Ill., (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $. fast, lunch, dinner, beer, wine. 202 W. Main St., Rockton, Cannova’s Italian Cuisine E Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., Free- (815) 957-0584. BkLD W-Sun 7 am-6 pm. $. port, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. $-$$.

Main Street Meat Co E Deli/bakery. Quality meats, seafood, Costa’s Ristorante E Upscale-Casual/Italian. 133 Blackhawk café/bakery with catering services. 9515 N. 2nd St., Roscoe, (815) 623-6328. BkLD M-F 8 am-6:30 pm; Sat. 8 am-6 pm; Dr., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. LD Daily 4pm. $-$$.

Sun. 9 am-5 pm. $.

Franchesco’s Ristorante E Upscale/Italian-American. Sommelier, live entertainment. 7128 Spring Creek Road, Rock- Mamma Mia’s E Casual/American. Pizza, pasta, sandwiches, wraps. 1139 N. Alpine Road, Rockford, (815) 399-6262. ford, (815) 229-0800. LD Sun-Th 4-9pm, F-Sat to 10pm. $$ LD M-Th 4-9pm, F 11am-10pm, Sat 4-10pm, Sun to 9pm. $$ Fresco at the Gardens. E Casual/American Café. Fresh, localsourced ingredients. 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint E Fine Dining. Ironworks Hotel, 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, (608) 313-0700. D Sun-Th 316-2256 BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$ 4:30-9pm, Fri-Sat to 10pm. $$.

Giordano’s E Casual/Italian. Stuffed pizza, salads, entrees, sandwiches, desserts. 33 Executive Parkwy., Rockford, (815) Prairie Street Brewhouse E Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, 398-5700. LD Sun-Th 11 am-10 pm, F-Sat to 11 pm.

Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$.

Giovanni’s/Big Al’s Bar/Alchemy E Upscale-casual/American. Three dining rooms. 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford. Thrive Café E Casual/Cafe. Salads, wraps, sandwiches, (815) 398-6411. LD M-Th 11a.m.-10 pm, F to 11 pm, Sat 3-11 smoothies, cold-pressed juices. Inside Peak Fitness, 4401 Peak Drive, Loves Park, Ill. BkLD M-F 6am-8pm, Sat 8am-2pm. ❚ pm. Live entertainment, open late. $-$$.

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Jan 18 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Arturo’s

A

rturo’s at 107 W. Main St., Poplar Grove, Ill., is run by Arturo Torres, who learned to cook authentic Mexican food in Guadalajara, Mexico. He uses only fresh, from-scratch ingredients.

Fan favorites include tacos, fajitas, 10 Finger Burritos and enchilada dinners.

American dishes include steaks, burgers, chicken wings and seafood plates. There’s also an expanding selection of domestic and imported beers, and, of course, the house margarita.

Breakfast is served Saturdays and Sundays, starting at 7 a.m., with 12 to 15 authentic Mexican options like huevos rancheros, chilaquiles, juevos tirados and huevos con chorizos, along with American fare. Arturo’s expects to open a rooftop beer garden by the end of 2017.

Hours: Mon.-Thu. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri.Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and Sun. 12 p.m.-8 p.m. ❚

SLW Dish of the Week Name of Plate: Enchiladas Mexicanas Restaurant: Dos Reales, 5855 E. State St., Rockford Description: This typical Mexican dish comes with three enchiladas of the customer choice – ground beef, shredded chicken or shredded beef – with gluten-free tortillas that are fried in vegetable oil. The plate also comes with rice, beans, lettuce, sour cream and guacamole.

“It’s a wonderful plate,” says Jose Gonzalez, manager. “Of the entire menu, this is one of the most requested dishes.”

Why does this dish stand out?

“Enchiladas are one of the most known dishes from Mexican cuisine,” Gonzalez says. “In Mexico, they make enchiladas spicy, but we take the spice out because we know most of our customers want something milder in taste. A Mexican customer might add hot sauce to it. The dish also has a good portion size. There’s enough to fill you up.”

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Jan 18 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Y M

Put Your ‘Lazy Money’ to Work E veryone’s goal in the world of investing is a secure financial future.

But it could be that your security is being victimized by the deadbeat of the financial world, “lazy money.” “‘Lazy money is money that just sits there, not really working for you the way it can and should,” says Alexander Joyce, president and CEO of ReJoyce Financial.

“And it’s money that can end up being eaten away by fees and taxes, not to mention the potential loss of any return on investment.”

If you want to put a little energy into the “lazy money” in your life, Joyce suggests a few places to look: • Checking and savings accounts.

When you’re in retirement, you want to be conservative with your investments – to a degree. But you can go overboard, Joyce says. Sometimes people keep higher than necessary balances in their check-

ing accounts and savings accounts.

They have quick access to that cash, which is great, but the money isn’t growing the way it could.

• Old 401(k) plans. People often change jobs, but are uncertain what to do with their 401(k). So they just leave it with their previous employer and “it sits there and does nothing,” Joyce says. “You could roll it into a traditional IRA and structure it in a different way to be either conservative or more aggressive, your call.”

Another option is to consolidate it into a 401(k) with your new employer.

• Little-used options with current employer benefit plans. Sometimes it’s worth having a financial professional review how you’re investing in retirement plans offered by your current employer, Joyce says. Many employees assume they don’t have access to that money until they

are 59½, other than possibly to borrow from it, but sometimes they might.

“So many people don’t realize they even have ‘lazy money’ and that there are opportunities to put that money to work,” Joyce says. “A good financial professional can help them determine whether their money is doing everything that it can.” ❚

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