Smart Living Weekly May 15, 2019

Sm mart a r t L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • May 15, 2019

™

Right in Our Region

Summer Fun at Midway Village

See Page 16

New Home Tech Ideas Tips for Easier Remodeling Why You Do Need a Lawyer Springtime at Starved Rock

FREE WIN!

4 tickets to Public Skate 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!

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 16 Midway Village Welcomes Springtime Your Home ............................................ ..... 11, 19 New Home Showroom; Tips for Remodeling Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Magnet & Compass Your Kitchen ...............................................15, 18 Spicy Springtime Fare Your Tech............................................................19 Making Home Life Easier Your Outing ............................................. .......... 21 Springtime at Starved Rock Your Health ............................................. .......... 23 New Treatment for Childhood Incontinence Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25 Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 Baci’s Kitchen Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 26 Your Money ........................................ ......... 29 Why You Do Need a Lawyer

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 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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Being Original

H

ere at Smart Living Weekly and Northwest Quarterly magazines, we’re very thankful for the advertisers who support what we do. Sure, they keep us employed, but they also help us to help our local economy. How? The short answer is that we help to level the playing field for locally owned businesses who can’t afford juggernaut national advertising budgets. We offer effective blanket market coverage they can afford so they can get out their ad messages. We couldn’t do this without advertisers.

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, weaker local identity, a cookiecutter ambiance, a hollowed-out downtown and fewer entrepreneurs earning a living by selling clothing, books, toys, hardware, etc.

Then a movement took root that recognized “buying local” as better for our economy, environment and quality of life. We’re glad to be part of that because Publisher Bill Hughes has always championed local business owners and recognized the challenges they face communicating their ad messages.

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 designed by local people.

By doing business with the folks who support this magazine, you’re making the region stronger.

Enjoy your week! ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor

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Y H  G

Renovation Showroom Opens in Machesney

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 who are looking for ideas and materials for their own home renovations.

Cedar & Stone Cabinetry and Flooring is a new 2,400 square-foot showroom opening this month at the same location and will carry a full line of cabinets, flooring, cabinet hardware, countertops and lighting to help people make choices, says President Tony Bonnet.

“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 in the Stateline area and adheres to a seven-step

process to make sure every construction project runs as smoothly as possible 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 in-home consultation with customers. They give advice, talk about goals and any 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, he says.

“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.

Macktown Construction and Cedar & Stone Cabinetry and Flooring will be at the Rockford Home Show (Booth 148) Feb. 22-24, at Mercyhealth Sportscore Two, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park. ❚

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I  W

Magnet & Compass

T

he late theologian Howard Hendricks said, “A leader is a person with a magnet in his heart and a compass in his hand.”

How do we recognize a good leader?

First, by studying scripture to see how God defines “good.” In a way, the Bible is an anthology of leadership profiles, detailing both successes and failures of prophets, judges, kings, Jewish high priests, quarreling leaders of the fledgling church and the Messiah himself.

Second, by asking God for spiritual insight and valuing it above human noise.

Here are a few sections of scripture to study.

• The gospels, of course, since Jesus Christ was the only perfect leader. “...whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be a slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.’” (Mark 10:42-45 NIV) • In I Timothy, Paul shares leadership qualities he values. “Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.” (I Tim. 3:3 NIV).

• Proverbs, penned mostly by King Solomon. “God cares about honesty in the workplace, your business is his business. Good leaders abhor wrongdoing of all kinds; sound leadership has a moral foundation. Good leaders cultivate honest speech; they love advisors who tell them the truth. An intemperate leader wreaks havoc in lives; you’re smart to stay clear of someone like that. Good-tempered leaders invigorate lives; they’re like spring rain and sunshine. Get wisdom – it’s worth more than money; choose insight over income every time.” (Proverbs 16:11-16 MSG) • Judges. These deeply flawed, often-reluctant leaders were made great by God and their stories are riveting. As God told Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Cor. 12:9) ❚ 12

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Y K

Easy, Tasty Spring Fare

G

ive your spring table a boost with spices and herbs, 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

New Summer Events at Midway Village

By Peggy Werner

W

hether you’re interested in history, education, gardening, volunteering or just having fun with others, there’s something for you this summer at Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford.

The summer lineup features new events including Lamplight Evening Tours, The Oregon Trail: IRL (in Real Life), Yoga in the Village and Rockford’s Culture Crawl.

“Summer is a busy time at the museum and the focus is on new and interesting events to attract people of all ages and encourage them to visit and learn about Rockford history,” says Lonna Converso, director of marketing and social media.

“The experiences are immersive and interactive, so visitors can learn about their community and what history means to all of us.”

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Victorian Tea The deadline to register for the popular Victorian Summer Tea event is May 22.

This year’s tea will be from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, June 2, in the historic Chamberlain Hotel. The menu will include a three-course meal and endless pots of summer teas. After the meal, make your own Victorian hat with guidance from an expert. Admission is $35 for adults, $30 for members, $20 for 17 years and under.

Costumed interpreters in Midway Village’s Junior Program will be helping out. Participants are encouraged, but not required, to wear historically appropriate dress.

Alyssa McGhghy, special events coordinator, says the evening tours will help people to experience Midway Village in another “ambiance,” and will be useful to people who can’t attend daytime events.

Lamplight Evening Tours The new Lamplight Evening Tours will be at 7 p.m. every Wednesday, June through August, led by history interpreters dressed in 1900s clothing.

The Oregon Trail: IRL Learn how to treat a snakebite, ford a river, fix a wagon wheel and sharpen your other pioneer skills to see if you have what it takes to successfully travel the

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Yoga in the Village Yoga in the Village will be led by certified yoga instructor Amanda Stivers at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 13. The class is open to all levels. Bring a yoga mat and water bottle. Cost is $12 per person, $10 for members. Those under 13 are admitted for free. Registration deadline is July 11.

If the day is successful, more yoga events will be added next year.

R  O R Oregon Trail: IR, when the classic game comes alive Saturday, June 8. The first session, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., is geared for people of all ages and will focus on family-friendly activities and non-competitive games. Admission is $8/adults, $6/members, free to those 2 and younger.

A later session, from 5 to 7 p.m., is for those 21 years and older who want to compete in teams. Early registration is required for teams of no more than six people, with no limit to the number of teams wanting to complete 10 stations within two hours. It will take place rain or shine.

“Both groups will definitely learn about pioneer life and what it was like to take to the trail, anticipate hazards, know what plants are edible, and handle other struggles pioneers faced, in all kinds of weather,” McGhghy says.

Rockford Culture Crawl 2019 Rockford Culture Crawl 2019, presented

by ComEd, will feature free creative and educational activities for children and

families from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 20, at seven locations throughout the city. Among them are Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St.; Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St.; Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road; and Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. 2nd St. Admission will be free that day at Midway Village Museum; Rockford Art Museum and Rockford Dance Company, 711 N. Main St.; and Ethnic Heritage Museum, 1129 S. Main St. Get a stamp at each location and, when finished touring, turn in stamps at any of the locations to be eligible to win a prize.

An After Hours event for those 21 and older will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. at Midway Village. Taboo Blah Blah will open for headliner Miles Nielsen and the Rusted Hearts. St. Stanislaus Church of Rockford will serve Polish fare; Prairie Street Brewing Company and Lucha Cantina will provide food and drinks; and participating organizations will host

activities. Bring blankets and chairs for outdoor entertainment. Admission/$10.

“Our community has so many really great cultural organizations and institutions and we just want everyone to get acquainted with them or have another reason to go through the doors to see what they have to offer,” McGhghy says.

To pre-register for the Victorian Tea, Yoga, or Oregon Trail evening event, call McGhghy at (815) 397-9112, ext. 104 or email specialevents@midwayvillage. com. Payment is due at registration. Purchase tickets online or at the door for Oregon Trail day event and Culture Crawl. ❚

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Y H  G

Tips for a Smooth Kitchen or Bath Remodel

By Janine Pumilia

T

od Chapman, owner of C & H Design Center, has coordinated a lot of kitchen and bath remodels during the past 10 years and has some advice to share.

First, be wary of do-it-yourself projects.

“We often have to go in and fix problems people created for themselves by taking on more than they really knew how to do,” says Chapman. “They’re trying to save money, but it ends up costing them more. Take advantage of the knowledge and experience people like us can offer.”

Chapman’s 6,000-foot showroom at 6506 Logan Ave., in Belvidere, Ill., contains all the elements needed for any size job, from design help to cabinets, counters, tile, hardware, fixtures, shower systems, flooring and more. C & H Design serves customers within a 65-mile radius, including Rockford, Freeport, southern

Wisconsin and Chicago suburbs.

“Some people think they’ll save a lot of money buying from big-box home centers but don’t realize those materials are often rejects or factory seconds that may not be great quality,” says Chapman. “Our pricing is comparable to home centers, but we carry a bigger selection of quality products at all price points. Plus, you don’t have to stand there and figure out all the aspects of the job yourself.”

Chapman is glad he can offer a onestop experience to customers because he knows how many phone calls and headaches can be involved when coordinating a job.

“Someone has to do all the scheduling for the various subcontractors,” he says. “We can handle everything so that you only have one interface, or we’ll work with you if you want to use a particular subcontractor. When you do a re-

model with us, you’ll get a schedule of who is going to be there, on which day, doing what.”

Chapman advises people to make sure they feel comfortable with the contractor they hire and to be sure all subcontractors are licensed and insured. Ask to see photos of completed jobs and check references. Businesses with longevity and a local street address are more likely to be reliable.

Learn more at candhdesigncenter. com or call (815) 547-8453. ❚

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Y P

Yes, You Really Do Need a Lawyer

By Janine Pumilia

A

ttorney James Meason has practiced in some of the largest cities of the country. But opening his own law office in Rockton, in 1997, was one of the best decisions he ever made.

“By being a small-town attorney, I can really help people,” he says. “I grew up in a working-class neighborhood of Chicago, went to public school and was the first person in my family to attend college. I know how hard people work.

I hate to see how some attorneys complicate things in order to charge more money. Sometimes they build you a lunar module when all you need is a mini van.”

One thing all adults do need, however, regardless of age, is to put into writing end-of-life wishes related to health care and assets, with help from an attorney, says Meason.

A living will is a directive to your

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doctor that documents your ideas on what, if any, extraordinary measures you’d want taken to prolong your life if you were incapacitated by illness or injury. This can happen to anyone at any age, as the case of 26-year-old Terry Schiavo demonstrated in 1990. That landmark case dragged out for 15 years because Schiavo’s wishes were undocumented.

“Everyone, regardless of their financial situation, should name a power of attorney for health care and also a power of attorney for handling finances,” says Meason. “And, everyone should have a will. By law, if your assets are greater than $100,000, (that includes your home), you should have a trust set up to prevent your heirs from having to send your estate through the lengthy and costly probate process.” That threshold is just $50,000 in Wisconsin.

Seeking legal help makes sense at

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many other key moments in life, too.

“You would not believe the messes people find themselves in because they didn’t consult an attorney when Attorney James Meason setting up their business or closing a real estate transaction, for example,” says Meason.

He cautions it’s risky to take a “do it yourself” approach to law.

“You get what you pay for.”

Meason’s services include family law, estate planning, real estate, business law, mediation and environmental law.

Find him at 113 N. Main St. in Rockton, go to measonlaw.com or call (815) 6246517. ❚

Y O

Waterfalls & Wildflowers at Starved Rock

By Kathy Casstevens

S

pringtime is perhaps the best time to visit Starved Rock State Park and Lodge. Seasonal waterfalls come to life in deep sandstone canyons and wildflowers pop into bloom along 13 miles of hiking trails. The array of Virginia Bluebells in Illinois Canyon becomes the highlight of Mother Nature’s handiwork.

A fairyland of varying hues of purple flowers makes this hike much better than a mere walk in the woods. Throughout May, Waterfall and Canyon Tours are offered on Monday and Saturday. The tour includes lunch from a special menu in the rustic Main Dining Room, a ride on a Starved Rock Trolley and guided hike to French, St. Louis and Ottawa Canyons.

Details and departure times are listed on the Lodge’s website.

Located in LaSalle County, less than 90 minutes from Rockford and the Chicago Suburbs, historic Starved Rock Lodge

is the only hotel located within scenic Starved Rock State Park. Parking is free and guaranteed for all hotel guests who can also enjoy an indoor pool complex, WiFi, a café, a full-service restaurant, the Back Door Lounge and outdoor dining with an amazing view on the Veranda.

Trailheads Concessions is located at the Visitor Center, which is accessible from a steel staircase on the east end of the Veranda.

Attendance at Starved Rock State Park has risen, so midweek getaways are the best way to enjoy an overnight stay, since the park is less crowded.

The Lodge’s annual Mother’s Day Buffet welcomes guests on Sunday, May 12. Reservations and advanced payment are required for this event.

The Main Dining Room is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Sunday Brunch is a crowd pleaser, so make

reservations.

Live music makes the Back Door Lounge an especially fun place to be on Friday nights from 8 to 11 p.m. Gorgonzola Nachos and Signature Ale are among the most popular choices on the menu.

Classic Rock and Roll fans will be entertained by Patty Waszak and her “Rock Around the Clock” show on May 20-22.

To learn more about spring events at Starved Rock Lodge, visit starvedrocklodge.com or call (815) 667-4211. ❚

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Y H

A New Treatment for Pediatric Incontinence

By Lindsey Gapen, managing editor

S

ome 13 million U.S. children suffer from incontinence, a lack of control over urination or defecation. This common problem is just one of many that Dr. Patrick McKenna treats as the director of pediatric urology at Mercyhealth Physician Clinic-Riverside.

McKenna and his team have created a three-pronged program. The Midwest Mercy Center for Reconstruction focuses on urological surgeries. The Antenatal Program manages urological problems detected in children before birth. And the Confidence Center provides non-surgical treatment for incontinence and more.

McKenna speaks nationally about incontinence and has developed a nonsurgical biofeedback program that’s close to 100 percent effective.

“I used to do about 130 to 150 ureteral surgeries in children per year,” he says.

“With our program, I did zero last year.”

His program in part uses video games to aid biofeedback.

“Biofeedback isn’t just the computer games – it’s 20 minutes of going over homework related to the education component, 20 minutes of teaching the children to control their abdominal and pelvic floor muscles, and 20 minutes of computer games that teach them how to relax their muscles when they void,” McKenna says.

A chance meeting, nearly 25 years ago, with a developer of computer games used to rehabilitate children from sports injuries, led to his program. When a resident doctor came to McKenna in search of a research project, McKenna pulled out the games and suggested developing an incontinence biofeedback program. He didn’t have high expectations, not being a big believer in biofeedback, at that time.

The resident completed his experi-

ment with 60 incontinent children and McKenna could hardly believe the results.

“There was an 80 percent success rate with Dr. Patrick McKenna no medicine,” McKenna says. “You can image the amount of data I had him review again.”

McKenna has refined and used the program for more than two decades now.

“To be honest, we wiped out one of the biggest operations that pediatric urologists do, so it has a big financial impact and therefore many people don’t want to run the program,” McKenna says. “But I’ve always found it’s best to do the right thing … we’ve really solved a lot of problems for children.” ❚

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You Deserve David’s Unsurpassed Service David Palmer, Gambino Realtors Here’s What David’s Customers Have to Say:

“Everything went smooth he is very nice and a great guy!”

Tamarius B 815-566-2437 • dpalmer@gogambino.com See more of my testimonials at my website: GoGambino.com/dpalmer

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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

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Tourism

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.

Scandinavian Smorgasbord May 18, 4-7 p.m. Celebrate the 175th anniversary of Jefferson Prairie Lutheran Church Rockford, 61101 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com with ILlefse, fish balls, pastries and other Scandinavian foods. $7/adults. 23184 Bergen Road, Poplar Grove, Ill. (815) 292-3226.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

Truman’s Ridge Band May 18, 7-9 p.m. Folk, jazz & swing combine for an evening of Chicago bluegrass. Spring Creek United Church of Christ, Rockford, (815) 877-2576, springcreekucc.org. ❚ 2nd Annual GR815 Beer Fest May 18, VIP tickets, 1-5 p.m., gen. admission 2-5 p.m. Sample beer from over 26 breweries; also wine, whisky, food trucks, cigars and music. BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford, (815) 968-5222, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com.

Whiskey on the Rock May 18, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Choose from more than 80 whiskeys, beer and wines. Tickets at Artale Wine Co. 6876 Spring Creek Road, event at Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, (815) 987-8858, rockfordparkdistrict.org/ncg.

Natural Living Expo May 18, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Showcasing 40-plus local businesses that support natural, holistic and sustainable community, such as yoga, massage, meditation, essential oils, cloth diapers, handmade soaps, wellness, healthy food options, allergen-friendly treats and more.

Cliffbreakers Riverside Hotel, 700 W. Riverside Blvd., rockfordcrunchyladies.org.

‘Pec Thing’ Antique & Flea Market May 18-19, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. More than 500 dealers display antique tools, quilts, yard art, jewelry, furniture, crafts, sports memorabilia, candles, glassware and much more. Rain or shine. Winnebago County Fairgrounds, 500 W. 1st St., Pecatonica, winnebagocountyfair.com.

Rockford Jazz Ensemble May 19, 3 p.m. Rockford’s newest big band performs a variety of jazz standards and contemporary selections, joined by a youth jazz band. MPAC, Starr Center, 415 N. Church St., (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.

Rock Around the Clock May 20-22, 11:30 a.m. Patty Waszak, who

Enjoy the Frogs & Friends event at Severson Dells on May 30.

hails from Pigeon Forge, Tenn., entertains with comedy and a wide variety of music. Tickets online or at (815) 220-7386. Buffet lunch included. Starved Rock State Park, Utica, Ill., (815) 667-4726, starvedrockstatepark.org.

RAM Community Day May 24, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Bring the family to the museum parking lot for music, food, art activities and more. YMCA & RAM, Rockford, (815) 968-2787, rockfordartmuseum.org.

Fort Koshkonong Rendezvous May 25-26, Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. to 4 p.m.

Step back in time to the early 1800s for an authentic reenactment that lets your family experience life as early Wisconsin pioneers.

Rock River Park, 1300 Lilian St., Fort Atkinson, Wis., (920) 563-7781, hoardmuseum.org.

Roy & Patsy’s Roadshow May 25, 7-9 p.m. The music of Roy Orbison, Patsy Cline and other country legends, performed by Ron Holm, Jannie Nelson and Trinadora Rocks. Spring Creek United Church of Christ, (815) 877-2576, springcreekucc.org.

That’s What I Call Rock ‘N Roll May 30-July 14, see website for times. Music from the '50s to '80s, with tributes to Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Beach Boys, the Beatles, Michael Jackson, Led Zeppelin, Queen, Springsteen and more. Fireside, Fort Atkinson, (800) 477-9505, firesidetheatre.com.

Frogs & Friends May 30, 1-3 p.m. Put on old sneakers and explore the pond and creek for frogs and other aquatic life. Bring a change of clothes and shoes. Severson Dells Nature Center, Winnebago, Ill., (815) 335-2915, seversondells.com. ❚

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WDL

Baci’s Kitchen Serves Up Tasty Fare

By Peggy Werner

N

ikko Castrogiovanni sees his business as constantly evolving to give people what they want from his full -service, all-day offerings of Italian and American cuisine. These include many health-conscious and vegetarian options.

“We offer great customer service, fresh foods and a great atmosphere,” he says. “People are pleasantly surprised when they come here and they make plans to return. And many people are still trying us out for the first time.”

Baci’s Kitchen is located at 2990 N. Perryville Road, Rockford, inside A Perryville Place, between Olde Creek and Spring Creek roads. It offers carryout, catering, delivery and full table service, with reservations highly encouraged. It also has a private gaming corner, a sit-down bar, daily specials and live music most Fridays and Saturdays.

Among favorite items on the menu are 10 oz. burgers, such as a mushroom

burger with caramelized onions, Swiss cheese, portabella mushrooms and bacon; the avocado burger topped with lettuce, tomato, black beans, avocado, American cheese and onion; and the Baci Blue, with bleu cheese, bacon and purple onion.

Also beloved is Baci’s Mac and Cheese, made with corkscrew pasta that’s baked and lightly topped with panko crumbs. There are many options, like Alfredo Mac and Cheese with shrimp, peppers and broccoli.

For breakfast, waffles, omelets, skillets and ala carte items are available as well as breakfast pizza starting at $14 in three sizes, made with scrambled eggs and a choice of sauces, cheeses, toppings and meat. There are also breakfast bowls like Greek yogurt with fresh berries, granola, bananas and honey or sweet potato and egg with avocado and kale. Costs range from $4.50 to $8.

Lunch/dinner options include sand-

wiches, soups, panini, wraps, specialty salads, pizzas, calzones and full-blown entrees like peppercorn-encrusted sirloin filet for $22 or lasagna for $14.95.

Among Baci’s healthful signature protein bowls is the Salmon Bowl, with blackened salmon filet, brown rice, sesame seeds, spinach, avocado, edamane and shredded carrots for $14.

Hours: Sun. 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; Mon.Wed. 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thurs.-Sat. 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Learn more at baciskitchen.com. ❚ ❚

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.

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. $-$$.

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.

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

Bravo Pizza  Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, S. Beloit, Ill., (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $.

Capital House  Lunches, fine dining, sushi bar, gourmet coffee & pastries, martini bar. 308 W. State St., Rockford, (815) 708-8989. LD T-Th 11am-10pm, Fri.-Sat. 11 am-10pm. $-$$$.

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.

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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. $-$$.

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. $$ Taco Betty’s  Casual/Mexican-American. 212 E. State St., Rkfd., (815) 977-5650. LD Daily 11am-1am. $$. ❚

May 15

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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Y T

Home Tech Can Make Your Life Easier

By Peggy Werner

D

o you often wish you could be in two places at once? This may be your answer.

Charles Zambrano, owner of EZ Satellite and Wireless, 6239 N. 2nd St. in Loves Park, has expanded his business as part of his mission to help people save money, time and energy.

He’s now working with Nest to bring the conveniences of home automation into the lives of his customers. He says it’s not a difficult change to make.

“I’m finding out that a lot of people are afraid of technology, but if they try it and find out how much easier life can be, they enjoy the benefits. Everyone has a smart phone, but not everyone is using it to the fullest capacity,” he says.

The number of “smart” devices is growing, and so are options for connecting those devices to local area networks.

This allows people to monitor and access their homes and businesses remotely.

For example, cameras can allow you to see what’s going on inside and outside your home, and you can talk to people at your door, when you’re away. You can also switch lights on and off, change or lock in thermostat settings and lock or unlock doors remotely.

“In this age of e-commerce, your phone can let you know when someone is at your door, when a package is delivered, and other notifications about what’s going on at home,” Zambrano says.

Nest offers all services on one application, which is a one-time purchase for installation, with no additional charge for monitoring.

“We’re just keeping pace with what’s available to customers and helping people to manage their lives better by getting them to use technology that’s available to them,” says Zambrano.

EZ Satellite &Wireless also is an authorized dish network retailer licensed to offer services from any provider using dish, cable, internet and home secu-

rity, such as Rise Broadband, Comcast, Frontier, HughesNet, DishNet, DirectTV, Digitenna and Vivint.

The EZ Solar Energy branch provides savings to homeowners who switch to solar power. There’s no down payment and fixed-rate financing, discounts and rebates are available. EZ Solar helps with permits, applications and obtaining a fixed-interest loan, for those who qualify.

Contact EZ Satellite & Wireless at (815) 957-4335 or EZ Solar at (815) 200-9057 or stop by the office. Learn more at EZsatellitenow.com and EZsolarenergynow.com. ❚

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