Smart Living Weekly March 21, 2018

Sm mart a r t L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit 95¢ • March 21, 2018

™

Right in Our Region

40 Days, 40 Nights ...

Noah’s Ark Turns 40

See Page 16

Dress Your Windows!

Is Your Router Secure?

How to Prepare for Retirement Help the Hungry Through Foodie Run

FREE WIN!

$50 Gift Card from Primetime Audio/Video See Pg. 28 Details

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

Smart Living Weekly

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 16 Noah’s Ark Turns 40 Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 How to Dress Your Windows Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 What is Palm Sunday?

Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Easy Easter Fare Your Outing .......................................................19 Events by Jodi Your Health ............................................. .......... 23 Hydrogen-rich Water Your Technology ............................................ ... 21 Your Router and Wireless Security Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 Cucina di Rosa Your Community ...............................................24 Foodie Run Benefits the Hungry Your Money .............................................. ......... 29 Approaching Retirement: What to Know

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen Assistant Managing Editor Jermaine Pigee Editor Emeritus Janine Pumilia Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Behling Contributing Writer Peggy Werner, Paula Kalivoda Furniss General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes Advertising Sales Representatives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones, Nita Lasky, Kendra Green Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Website www.SmartLivingWeekly.com Published by Hughes Media Corp.

222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 (815) 316-2300, Fax: (815) 316-2301 lhughes@northwestquarterly.com Smart Living Weekly.

Copyright 2018 by Hughes Media Corp., 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

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Why We Exist E

very now and then I like to remind myself just why Smart Living Weekly is important to our community.

The short answer is that we help to level the playing field for locally owned businesses left behind by juggernaut national advertising budgets. We offer highly effective blanket market coverage local folks can afford.

We care about Mom & Pop and you should, too. Why? Because they tend to keep a much higher percentage of money circulating in our communities. About 80 cents on every dollar spent at a big-box store or chain restaurant immediately heads for that store’s headquarters in another state. Mom & Pop also tend to be better employers and more supportive of our community.

As happened all across America, our region lost much of its identity when chains began replacing thousands of locally owned businesses. The end result was a weaker local economy and local identity, a depressingly cookie-cutter ambiance, a hollowed-out downtown and fewer entrepreneurs earning a living by selling clothing, books, toys, hardware, you name it.

Slowly a movement took root that recognized “buying local” as better for our economy, better for our environment ... and better for our quality of life.

Bill Hughes has always championed local business owners and recognized the challenge they face when trying to get out their ad messages in a playing field tipped against them.

We’re not expecting a return to the days when local grocers thrived on every corner.

But we do share a thirst for what’s original, personal and unique to our community. We crave food that’s locally grown, ideas that are locally born and gathering places with décor that isn’t shrink-wrapped and sent to us from Corporate.

By doing business with the folks who support this magazine, you really are making the region stronger in important ways. Enjoy your week! ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor

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Y H  G

Fresh Styles, New Options for Windows

By Janine Pumilia ike everything else in your home – flooring, furniture, fixtures – window treatments need to look beautiful and function well.

“People aren’t always aware of the functional options in today’s window treatments,” says Jenny Behning-Ziemke, local design consultant for 3 Day Blinds.

“Do you need them to open and close automatically while you’re on vacation?

Is child safety or energy conservation your concern? Do you want to let in light above but maintain privacy below? There are more solutions than you may think.”

Ziemke has seen many styles evolve since she earned her design degree and entered the custom window treatment industry more than 28 years ago. But the need for sound design advice remains constant.

“In the 1990s, we saw a lot of fancy, heavy window treatments,” she recalls.

L

“Next came a big swing toward a very clean look, often with nothing at all on windows except blinds for privacy.”

That phase has passed.

“For the past 5 years, most people have settled between those extremes,” says Ziemke. “They want their windows dressed but not overdressed. A home today might feature blinds for privacy plus stationary fabric panels on each side and a decorative rod with nice finials. Cozy but not heavy.

“We mostly see drapes in living and dining rooms, and also bedrooms, because they add to a feeling of romance.”

Stationary panels or full drapery that have returns are practical in bedrooms, she says. “They block those slices of light that can escape from the sides of blinds and wake you up.”

The 3 Day Blinds company provides a no-obligation, in-home visit with an ex-

perienced design consultant.

“It takes about two to three hours,” says Ziemke. “I bring my showroom-onwheels right to you. We measure, help you place the order, manufacture the products and ship them to the installer within three days. We install them in your home and you enjoy them.”

Learn more at 3dayoffer202.com or set up a home consultation by calling (815) 242-0034. Be sure to ask about the buy one, get one 50 percent off sale currently in progress. ❚

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I  W

Why Palm Sunday?

T

his Sunday, March 25, Christians worldwide will celebrate Palm Sunday.

What is it?

Also called Passion Sunday, Palm Sunday is always on the Sunday before Easter.

It commemorates Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem shortly before his execution, as recorded in Mark 11:1–11, Matthew 21:1-11, Luke 19:28-44 and John 12:12-19.

Crowds welcomed Jesus with enthusiastic reverence. They waved palm fronds and lined his path as he entered the city on a donkey, as was prophesied by Zechariah in verse 9:9 of his book, NIV: Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.

The people had heard of the great miracles done by Jesus and dared to believe he was the long-awaited redeemer of Israel.

What they didn’t know is that he would emerge not only as Israel’s redeemer, but also as Messiah to all people who choose to believe on him.

Why didn’t they know this? Because Jesus didn’t spell out the full story during his ministry, not wanting Satan to foil God’s plan. Had Satan truly understood it, he would have stopped the dark events that unfolded during Holy Week. Paul states in I Corinthians 2:7-9: No, we declare God’s wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.

Powerful rulers who were threatened by Jesus’ popularity chose to humiliate, torture and execute him. Jesus willingly submitted himself to their cruelty, even though he could have stopped it at any moment. Matthew 26:53-54 NIV: “Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than 12 legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen this way?”

By one man’s disobedience (Adam) the world fell; By one man’s obedience it is redeemed. (Romans 5:19) Palm Sunday marks the beginning of the end of Jesus’ ministry on earth – and opens the door to a new era in which all who believe on Jesus Christ are welcomed – Janine Pumilia to God’s family. ❚ 12

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Y K

Easy, Tasty Easter Fare

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his Easter, give your spread a boost with spices and herbs of the highest quality, such as those from Spice Islands.

Anise, Pear Almond Crostata Crust: 1 1/4 1 1/2 1/4

cups all-purpose flour stick butter, cubed and frozen tsp. sea salt cup ice water

Anise Almond Filling: 1 cup blanched, slivered almonds 3/4 tsp. Spice Islands Anise Seeds 1/3 cup sugar 1 large egg 1 tsp. Spice Islands Vanilla Extract 1/4 tsp. fine Mediterranean sea salt 2 Tb. butter, at room temperature 3 Fiorelle or small pears, sliced 2 Tb. sugar, plus extra 1 Tb. lemon juice 1 large egg, beaten 2 Tb. Polaner Apricot Preserves, Cream or ice cream (optional)

Crust: In food processor, combine flour, frozen butter and salt. Pulse until dough is size of large peas. Add 3 Tb. ice water

and pulse several times. Pinch dough to see if it’s holding together; if not, add water until dough holds together. Form dough into disk, wrap in plastic wrap and chill 30 minutes. Heat oven to 400 F. Filling: In food processor, blend almonds, anise seeds, sugar, egg, vanilla and salt until paste forms. Add room temperature butter and blend again. Set aside.

Toss sliced pears with 2 Tb. sugar and lemon juice. Set aside.

On sheet of floured parchment paper, roll out dough into 13-inch circle; transfer on parchment to rimless cookie sheet.

Spread almond paste onto circle, leaving 2-inch border. Scatter pears on top, covering almond paste. Fold dough up and over pears, overlapping dough as needed. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle crust generously with extra sugar.

Bake until pears are tender, 40-45 minutes. If crust starts to get too brown, lightly cover with foil. Remove tart from oven and brush pears with heated apricot preserves. Serve with cream or ice cream.

Spiced Honey and Pepper Ham 8-10 1 1 1 1/2 1 1/2 1/2

lbs. shank-end ham Tb. black pepper Tb. ground mustard Tb. garlic powder cup honey tsp. ground Saigon cinnamon tsp. ground cloves

Heat oven to 325. Score ham at 1-inch intervals and moisten with water.

Combine black pepper, mustard and garlic powder and rub over ham. Roast according to directions. Combine honey, cinnamon and cloves. Drizzle over ham during last 30 minutes of roasting.

Remove and let rest 20 minutes before slicing.

Source: Family Features

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R  O R

Noah’s Ark Celebrates 40 Years of Pet Rescue F

By Peggy Werner

or 40 years, Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary Inc., 111 N. 1st St., has been rescuing homeless and abandoned animals, while enriching the lives of pet owners.

Shelter Manager Stephanie Lauer says pet ownership is a serious responsibility and communicating that message is a big part of the shelter’s responsibility.

“We’ve survived this long because the community embraces our mission of providing temporary homes for animals until a good home is found,” she says.

Since Lauer assumed her position two and a half years ago, she has focused on providing an upbeat, welcoming environment and good customer service.

The shelter will celebrate the anniversary during its 11th annual fundraiser, Bark & Wine, May 5 from 4 to 10 p.m. at Tebala Shrine Center, 7910 Newberg Road. The event includes hors d’oeuvres

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followed by a buffet dinner catered by ABC Catering and then jazz music.

There’ll be a silent auction, door prizes and quarter buckets.

Noah’s Ark began as a small storefront at the current address and gradually expanded as money allowed. It rented more and more of the building until it could purchase it about 20 years ago.

About 25,000 adoptable animals have come through those doors in need of a warm bed, a good meal, medical attention and someone to love. At any given time, the shelter can accommodate up to 50 cats and 20 dogs. Last year, adoptions were up by 38 percent.

“There is increased awareness that mixed-breed animals are healthier animals and there are so many in need of homes,” says Lauer. “Rescue is becoming a way of life in many homes.”

The animal sanctuary was founded

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by a small group of Rockford residents on April 30, 1978, to provide humane care to homeless animals and to help control the animal population.

Jan Stewart and her late husband, Charles, were part of that group. Jan still volunteers at the shelter and is president of the board of directors.

“A lot of those people were trying to place animals on their own so fewer animals would be killed,” she explains.

The idea of a community shelter evolved and Noah’s Ark opened. Stewart attributes the growth of the shelter to her frugal nature and community support.

“I didn’t spend money on what I didn’t need,” she says. “Every time I needed something, I asked for donations and people responded. With the money we saved up, we opened the hospital building.”

Noah’s Ark Animal Hospital, 125 S.

R  O R

Madison St., opened in 2008 and is also a non-profit organization. It offers low-cost animal services to low-income pet owners, among other community programs.

Noah’s Ark was the first “no kill” shelter in the community, meaning that animals are not euthanized just to make room for other animals. They’re euthanized only if they’re terminally ill, suffering or if they’re a public hazard due to very aggressive behavior.

Noah’s Ark receives no government funding and entirely relies upon private donations, bequests, fundraisers, grants, memberships, kennel sponsorships and volunteers.

Hundreds of people volunteer each year to cuddle kittens, walk dogs, work in the office, help with fundraisers, foster animals, feed the animals, clean cages and many other “behind the scenes” tasks.

The shelter is always looking for new volunteers, who can apply online at noahsarkanimals.org. A “wish list” of items that people can donate is found online as well. All donations are tax deductible.

Lauer says the main reasons pets are surrendered to a shelter or abandoned is because they’re not given the proper accommodations at home, are not accepted as a permanent part of the family, and/or don’t receive training.

“All dogs have to be trained,” she says. “A trained dog is a well-behaved dog. Cats and dogs both need socialization to feel unconditional love and to be able to give back that love,” she says.

And it’s never too late. It takes time and training to renew an animal’s trust,

Bark & Wine May 5, 4-10 p.m.

Tebala Shrine Center $40 per person, $70 per couple NoahsArkAnimals.org

but it can be done, she says.

“We’ve included daily enrichment via individual human contact and training into our daily routine at the ark,” she says.

Given the name of the shelter, 40 years is an especially significant anniversary. The tag line of event posters states, “40 Years, 40 Days, 40 Nights, 24,000 lives changed.”

Purchase tickets for Bark & Wine in person or online at Noahsarkanimals.org or on Facebook. ❚

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Experience Downtown Rockford

Y O

Events by Jodi Support Local Craftspeople

By Peggy Werner

B

ringing together people to discover the talents of others and supporting local businesses is what Events by Jodi is all about.

The next scheduled event is from 10 a.m. to 3p.m. Saturday, April 7 at Tebala Shrine Center, 7910 Newburg Road.

Homemade arts and crafts will be featured from more than 75 vendors coming from Wisconsin, Iowa and Illinois cities. Attendees can also register for door prizes at the entrance.

“I hope people leave the event feeling they had a lot of fun while looking at a wide variety of crafts and meeting a lot of great people,” says Jodi Dandridge, event planner.

After all, she puts in a lot of hours to plan each event.

“I spend seven days a week, several hours a day, for months, planning each event in the hopes of creating a memo-

rable event for everyone,” she says.

She started her business in 2010 because she was aware of the enormous amount of talent in the area, with many of those people owning small businesses.

She wanted to help build an awareness of their existence. Each year, the number of vendors has grown and hundreds of people now attend each event.

Events by Jodi is a one-woman effort, which will result in six arts and craft shows with 75 to 135 vendors in locations

in Boone, Winnebago and Stephenson counties. All items are handmade, except for one direct sales vendor. All types of crafts are for sale including handmade soaps, wood art, Christmas items, jewelry, scarves, pillows, paintings, candles and more. Most items are priced from $5 to $125.

Other events on the schedule for this year include July 14 at Pecatonica Fairgrounds, Aug. 11 at Freeport Fairgrounds, Oct. 13 at The Community Center in Belvidere and Nov. 24 at Tebala Shrine Center in Rockford. All are free to attend.

Anyone interested in being in a craft show can contact Jodi at jodidandridge@ yahoo.com. ❚

Get SLW Outings articles every week. Visit smartlivingweekly.com and start your e-Edition today.

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Y T

Routers Play Key Role in Data Security

By Peggy Werner

M

ost people are careful not to give out personal information over their phone, yet they work every day on computers with inadequate security, says Primetime Audio Video General Manager Dirk Dutton.

He says people pay attention to what they see and can hold in their hands, like cell phones and credit cards, but pay less attention to what they can’t see.

“Their fears are in the wrong place,” says Dutton. “Smart devices are the most vulnerable items and hackers are working every day to find new ways to phish for information.”

People spend thousands of dollars on phones, Ipads, laptops, computers and other electronics, but they rely on outdated and inexpensive routers that don’t have security updates, he says.

The router takes the signal it gets

from a modem and delivers it to Wi-Fi, so people can see information on their devices, he explains.

Especially in rental units, you don’t know the age of the equipment. It comes with a default username and password that should be changed right away to be made more secure.

“The router is the foundation of a wireless system and should be as good

as the devices connected to it. Network security has been around as long as the internet has existed and is at the forefront of people’s minds in hospitals, banks, and other businesses, but the amount of security people have at home has been largely ignored. Everyone knows what Wi-Fi is and how to use it, but they don’t know much about it,” he says, adding, “Good network security and good Wi-Fi go hand in hand. Why have great service, but have equipment that slows you down and is unprotected?”

Dutton recommends working with technology experts to upgrade equipment that will do security updates. People should expect to pay hundreds of dollars for a good router because as manufacturers learn about safety measures and implement them for the consumer, there is a cost for that technology, he adds. ❚

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Y H

The Healing Powers of Hydrogen M

any of us are doing everything we can to stay healthy. We exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet with lots of fruits and veggies, get plenty of sleep, drink water, and lead a purposeful life.

Despite this, we may still experience health issues that are described as “signs of getting older.” For all of us, young and old, there is good news; the molecular hydrogen revolution has begun.

Molecular hydrogen (H2) has been with us from the beginning of the universe and is vital to our life. It is a nontoxic, colorless, odorless, and tasteless antioxidant. It’s the smallest chemical element and since H2 is formed by our intestinal flora when digesting fiber, it is a natural byproduct of a healthy diet.

Studies have shown Hydrogen-rich water to be a natural way to reduce pain and inflammation, improve energy, cognitive function, exercise performance,

and recovery. It’s also shown to neutralize free radicals, support antioxidant balance, super-hydrate your cells, and support overall wellness. And, while many people are discovering the healing powers of H2 water, our tap and bottled water contain literally no H2.

A double-blind study with soccer players published in 2012 indicated that drinking H2 water before exercise reduced blood lactate levels and improved exercise-induced decline of muscle function. What does this mean for us? When

Healthy Hydrogen Water on Tap! Water Wellness Presentation a video/slideshow presentation

if you’re an ATHLETE who wants to achieve better performance, or a PARENT who battles school and daycare viruses, or a HEALTH NUT and want to keep it going, or if you’re AGING, or SUFFERING from chronic health conditions, or simply a PET OWNER who wants the best possible health for your special friend – THIS PRESENTATION IS FOR YOU!

we are well hydrated with H2 water, we will have less muscle fatigue during the workout, less post-workout muscle pain, and a quicker recovery.

Fortunately for us, this amazing H2 water can be produced in high-quality, medical-grade ionizers that can be installed in our homes, so we can drink freshly made H2 water. The best ionizers will produce water that is ultra-filtered to 0.001 microns, contains beneficial minerals, and has an abundance of H2. Today, this breakthrough is available to everyone, not just to elite athletes.

Want to learn more about the natural healing powers of Hydrogen water? Steven Clarke, Certified Molecular Hydrogen Advisor, will be providing a FREE one -hour presentation on water wellness on April 5th, 6th, and 7th. For more information call 815-262-6473. ❚ (Sponsored Content)

guest speaker

Steven Clarke

Three Time Options: NIU Rockford Conference Center

Certified Molecular 5800 E. State St – Rockford Hydrogen Advisor Nano-Hydration Specialist Thursday, April 5 ► 6:00 – 8:00 pm Water Wellness Coach Friday, April 6 ► 1:30 – 3:30 pm

Steven will present water wellness Emmanuel Episcopal Church in a unique and enjoyable way. Nation- 412 N. Church St – Rockford wide, many say they’ve learned more Saturday, April 7 ► 10:00 am – 12:00 about water in 1 hour than they knew in a lifetime. This new understanding “Hydrogen has therapeutic potential in of hydrogen and health is backed by over 170 disease models and in essenover 1,000 peer-reviewed scientific tially every organ of the human body.” research papers, most of them (Molecular Hydrogen Foundation) published since 2007!

Admission is FREE. Seating space is limited.

Please reserve your seat ONLINE today!

NIU: https://niu_healthywaterontap.eventbrite.com Emmanuel: https://ee_healthywaterontap.eventbrite.com

Or feel free to call 815-262-6437 for more details Sponsored by Ionized Water Plus, LLC

Hydrogen Water ● Learn it ● Use it ● Benefit from it !

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Y C

Fun Run/Walks Support Local Food Bank R

unners and walkers of all ages and skills can lace up the running shoes and sign up to help fight hunger in our community. Registration for the 2018 Foodie 5K Series is now open.

These events benefit Northern Illinois Food Bank, which serves 13 counties including Winnebago. More than 3,500 runners and walkers are expected to participate in races in Wheaton, Libertyville and Romeoville.

Each event features a post-race festival with entertainment, gourmet food trucks and activities for kids, offering a great day for families, leisure walkers and competitive runners.

“We’re so excited for the Foodie 5K to be returning after a great outpouring of support last year,” says Kate Thomas, special events coordinator at Northern Illinois Food Bank. “These races offer a fun and interactive way for people to en-

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gage with the Food Bank’s message and to give back right in their own communities.”

The 5K races are scheduled for Saturday, April 7, in DuPage County at Cantigny Park in Wheaton; Saturday, May 12, in Lake County at Independence Grove in Libertyville; and Saturday, Sept.

15, in Will County, at Lewis University in Romeoville.

Last year, the Foodie 5Ks attracted more than 2,500 participants and raised more than $209,000 to support the Food Bank’s efforts of solving hunger across its service area. This translated to $1.6 mil-

March 21 To advertise call 815-316-2300

lion in groceries for hungry neighbors.

All proceeds benefit Northern Illinois Food Bank, where every $1 donated provides $8 worth of food.

All three races are chip-timed fun runs/walks open to all ages. Participants will receive a race t-shirt, $2 food truck voucher to be used at the post-race festival and more. Those who register for a second race will receive a code for $10 off, and those who sign up for all three races will receive a special commemorative gift.

Registration per race is $35 for adults and $15 for children ages 6-12. Children ages 0-5 are free. Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities are available for all three races.

Go to SolveHungerToday.org/Foodie5K for updates on participating food trucks, entertainment and activities for kids at all three race locations. ❚

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

FAM Native American Artists Through March 24. Featuring work by contemporary Native American artists in Rockford, IL 61101 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com FAM’s permanent collection.

Freeport Art Museum, 121 N. Harlem Ave., Freeport, (815) 235-9755, freeportartmuseum.org.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

Lisa Loeb March 23, 7:30 p.m. Trailblazing Loeb offers hit singles “Do You Sleep,” “I Do” and “Let’s Forget About It,” in addition to hits from her two gold albums. JPAC, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.

AE: 'Dying for Attention' March 23-25, Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 4 & 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. An audience of wouldbe detectives is invited to solve a murder case in this interactive comedy. AE, Rockford University, (815) 394-5004, artistsensemble.org.

Model Train Show & Sale March 24 & 25, presented by the Rock River Valley Division of the National Model Railroad Association at Belvidere North High School, 9393 Beloit Road, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sunday. Adults $5, kids free, free parking.

Learn more at rrvd-nmra.com.

Guided Tour of Midway Village March 24, 10:30-11:30 a.m. A trained interpreter gives visitors an in-depth look at Rockford’s history with anecdotes.

MVM, 6799 Guilford Road, (815) 3979112, midwayvillage.com.

A Visual Exploration of the Prairies March 28, 7-8:30 p.m. Beginner and seasoned naturalists discover the hidden and often-missed beauty of our local prairies.

Severson Dells Nature Center, Winnebago, Ill., (815) 335-2915, seversondells.com.

'Of Mice and Men' March 30-April 7, Fri.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 2 p.m. The John Steinbeck classic about drifters George and Lennie, the latter a man-child and gentle giant. Winneshiek

Model train fans will enjoy a show and sale this weekend at Belvidere North High School.

Players Theatre, 28 W. Clark St., Freeport, (815) 232-7023, winneshiekplayers.org.

'Cipollino' March 30-31, Fri. 7 p.m., Sat. 1 & 7 p.m.

A ballet that tells the adventures of the Little Onion Boy. Rockford Dance Co., Hononegah Performing Arts Center, 307 Salem St., Rockton, Ill., (815) 963-3341, rockforddancecompany.org.

Maple Sugaring March 31, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Learn how and why maple trees produce sap, which are the best to tap, how syrup is made and how science has modernized this ancient seasonal practice. Severson Dells Nature Center, Winnebago, Ill., (815) 335-2915, seversondells.com.

Cirque du Soleil: Corteo April 5-8, Th.-Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 3:30 & 7 p.m., Sun. 1 & 5 p.m. Corteo, or cortege in Italian, is a joyous parade imagined by a clown, in the mysterious space between heaven and Earth. Includes 51 acrobats, musicians, singers and actors from all around the world. BMO Harris Bank Center, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com.

Foreigner 40th Anniversary Tour April 6, 8 p.m. Forty years on, the band continues to rock with hits such as “Cold as Ice,” “Hot Blooded,” “Juke Box Hero” and “I Want to Know What Love Is.” Coronado PAC, Rockford, (815) 9680595, coronadopac.org. ❚

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March 21

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WDL

Good Food & Folks at Cucina di Rosa

By Peggy Werner

R

ose Mary Leggio believes in celebrating each day with good food and good people and that’s just what she does at Cucina di Rosa in Rockford.

Sicilian born, Leggio began her restaurant career in 2006 after friends who tasted her cannoli begged her to start selling the creamy, crunchy Italian dessert made from a 100-year-old family recipe. She opened Cannoli Café at 1620 N. Bell School Road and in 2016 opened Cucina di Rosa (Rosa’s Kitchen) in the same location.

“It’s my kitchen, and that allows me to be creative and prepare food as I would for my own family,” Leggio says.

Leggio serves craft beers and Italian wines, some made with grapes grown only in Sicily. Her daily specials are much anticipated by regular customers eager to see what she’s cooked up.

The core menu consists of soups, salads, panini and entrees such as fried

rice balls filled with mozzarella cheese and ham or meat sauce and peas. Favorite entrees include eggplant Parmigiana, ravioli, tortellini and a special Sicilian lasagna made with peas and slices of hard-boiled eggs.

Leggio offers an array of desserts, including 16 flavors of homemade gelato, cannoli, cannoli cake, eclairs, cream puffs, bisconti, croissants with various toppings and an assortment of Italian cookies.

“I love to hear people say how happy they are that I’m back in business and I love to see their reactions to the foods they recognize as what their grandmas used to make,” says Leggio. “I feel so appreciated and I feel that I’m offering something unique to Rockford.”

Leggio’s staff members interact like family, which some of them are. Her

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Baci’s Kitchen  Fast-Casual American and Italian specialties, Giordano’s  Casual/Italian. Stuffed pizza, salads, entrees, dine-in, carry-out. 2990 N. Perryville Road, inside A Perryville sandwiches, desserts. 33 Executive Parkway, Rockford, (815) Place. (815) 329-6922. Open 7 days/wk. at 8 a.m. BkLD. Com- 398-5700. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11 pm. plete menu at Baciskitchen.com.

GreenFire  Upscale-Casual/American contemporary. SeaBravo Pizza  Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, South Be- sonal cuisine; local-sourced ingredients; gourmet market; loit, Ill., (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $. live entertainment. 6795 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, (815) Capital House  Fine dining, sushi bar, gourmet coffee (martini 316-3473. BkLD M-F 11am, Sat-Sun 8am. Bar open late. $$$.

bar awaiting liquor license). 308 W. State St., Rockford, (815) 708- Hearthrock Cafe  Restaurant/cafe. Baked goods, coffee, 8989. BLD M-Th 8am-4pm, Fri. 8 am-10pm, Sat. 11am-10pm. breakfast, lunch. Inside Benson Stone Co., 1100 11th St., Closed Sunday. $-$$$.

Rockford, (815) 227-2000. BkL M-F 7:30am-3pm; Sat. 8amCiao Bella Ristorante Upscale-Casual/Italian-American. Dai- 3pm. $-$$.

ly specials. 6500 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, Ill. (815) 654- Maciano’s Pizza & Pastaria  Casual. Pizza, Italian favor9900. LD M-F 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 5-10 p.m. $$ ites, beer & wine. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, Ill., Costa’s Ristorante  Upscale-Casual/Italian. 133 Blackhawk (815) 633-7500; 5801 Columbia Pkwy., Rockford, (815) 2275577. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $$.

Dr., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. LD Daily 4pm. $-$$.

Cucina di Rosa  Italian Bistro/Bakery 1620 Bell School Road, Prairie Street Brewhouse  Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Rockford, (815) 395-5040. BkLD. Homemade gelato, baked Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$. goods, pasta, frittatas, more. M-Sat 7am-9pm. $$ Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant  Casual/Mexican. Authen- Taco Betty’s  Casual/Mexican-American. 212 E. State St., tic dishes, lunch menu. 5855 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 227- Rockford, (815) 977-5650. LD Daily 11am-1am. $$.

4979. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 10:30pm. $-$$.

Thrive Café  Casual/Cafe. Salads, wraps, sandwiches, smoothies, cold-pressed juices. Inside Peak Fitness, 4401 Peak Fresco at the Gardens.  Casual/American Café. Fresh, local-sourced ingredients. 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, Drive, Loves Park, Ill. BkLD M-F 6am-8pm, Sat 8am-2pm. ❚ (815) 316-2256. BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$

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March 21 To advertise call 815-316-2300

daughter, Leandra Sandahl, helps run the business and will someday take it over.

Leggio’s sons, Joe and Eric, also assist in the business effort.

Cucina di Rosa is available for private parties on Sundays and Mondays and also caters special events.

Regular hours are Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. There’s live entertainment every Saturday and most Friday evenings. ❚

In the Spotlight Merrill & Houston's Steak Joint

L

ocated at 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, inside the Ironworks Hotel, the restaurant features mouthwatering steaks, along with a full-service menu of fish, chicken and and seafood selections.

Named after the men whose 1858 foundry became Beloit Corp., Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint celebrates Beloit's rich industrial history.

Many of its components are constructed with repurposed materials salvaged from historic buildings. Leather seats, hardwood floors and many historical photographs lining the walls give the space a rustic feel.

Merrill & Houston's is available for private and corporate events. The main dining room seats 120 and the banquet room can accommodate 200 guests.

Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint is open daily at 4 p.m. ❚

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March 21

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March 21 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Y M

Approaching Retirement: What to Know

By Janine Pumilia

F

rom the time he was in high school, Brad Steele knew he wanted to help people better understand the confusing world of insurance and retirement preparation. He’d grown up on a farm in Walnut, Ill., and watched his grandfather wrestle with unaffordable insurance and interest rates that cost him his livelihood.

“When my grandfather was forced out of business, I knew I wanted to help people navigate the issues that arise when approaching retirement,” says Steele.

“Many people pay too much because they don’t understand how it all works.”

So 15 years ago, Steele and business partner Tony Torbey founded Senior Advisors of Illinois to provide financial counseling to people befuddled by red tape – which is most of us. Today, about 300 insurance professionals operate under Senior Advisors in 35 states.

“It costs nothing to sit down with

us and review your financial needs and options,” says Steele. “If you decide to use the options we recommend or invest through us, we all profit. Either way, when we walk away, you’re better educated and have a much better understanding of how investing and Medicare insurance work.”

Steele represents more than 120 insurance companies. He also offers financial portfolio management with an emphasis on low-risk investments.

“As people get closer to retirement, they should be shifting to a lower-risk portfolio,” says Steele. “Sadly, I knew people who didn’t take that advice and lost half of their retirement savings when the stock market crashed in 2008.”

A few years ago, a local pharmacy referred a struggling couple to Steele.

“We ended up saving them $5,000 a year in premium costs,” he says. “I recently bumped into their daughter and she

gave me a big hug and told me what a difference that had made to her parents’ ability to buy food. That’s very rewarding.

“Helping seniors leave a legacy for their family rather than the state is another large hurdle we help overcome,” he says. “Properly aligning all life insurance, health insurance and investments is key. We’ve perfected that.”

Senior Advisors of Illinois is located at 7214 N. Alpine Road in Loves Park.

Learn more by calling (815) 282 3480 or go to Senioradvisorsofillinois.com. ❚

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March 21 To advertise call 815-316-2300

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