Smart Living Weekly - March 15, 2017

Smart L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • March 15, 2017

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Right in Our Region

Rockford Dance Company Presents ‘Snow White’

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Benefits of Organic Fertilizer When Not to Do It Yourself How to Avoid Foot Pain Meal-Planning Tricks for Health Recipe: Sesame Chicken Wings

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5X s t n i o p

S u n d ay s in March

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 20 Rockford Dance Company Presents ‘Snow White’ Your Outdoor Living ..........................................9 Consider Organic Fertilizers Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 When NOT to Do It Yourself Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Humility, Not Hubris Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Sticky Sesame Chicken Wings Your Outing .......................................................17 Cultural Heritage Celebration at Midway Village Your Technology ...............................................19 How to Take Care of Your Cell Phone Your Auto ...........................................................23 Driving in Spring Snow Your Health ........................................... ...... 25, 26 How to Avoid Foot Pain; Meal Planning Tips Your Fun ................................................... ......... 27 Restaurant of the Week ................................... 28 Cannova’s Italian Cuisine Your Money .............................................. ......... 33 Tips for Being in Control of Your Money

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, Nita Lasky 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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Dancing Peonies

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saw two robins and the clock sprang forward yesterday. I blissfully fell asleep clutching seed catalogs; visions of new peony cultivars danced through my head.

Then awoke to snow this morning. And with each snowfall comes a gleeful email from my teasing brother in Tallahassee, Fla., who apparently planted flowers and sipped mint juleps in his backyard all weekend, no snow shovels required.

“Why don’t you move south and join us?” he asked for the millionth time. “The weather is great! Florida has no income tax! And our property taxes are still affordable!”

“That’s because your property soon will be underwater,” I muttered to myself. And it’s true. Coastal palm trees are already dropping dead from salt water invasion and beaches are shrinking fast.

But my brother loves his Florida lifestyle and he’s not alone. That state’s population has doubled since 1980. Doubled! It’s now thirdlargest after California and Texas.

Meanwhile, Illinois lost more people in 2016 than any state except West Virginia – for the third year in a row. Wisconsin’s population is shrinking, too, at a slower rate. The most common destinations for ex-Illinoisans are Texas, Arizona and Florida, in that order, according to an IRS report.

It’s true the weather is pleasant in the Sun Belt and a large part of our population is reaching retirement age. But high taxes, a chronically dysfunctional state government and a less-than-thrilling job market are also cited by those who flee.

As for me, I love our region. I revel in its natural beauty. I adore four true seasons, good-tasting tap water, real grass and a wide variety of trees that don’t turn brown in summer heat. I enjoy snow. And I’m not crazy about alligators. And in a few months, my brother will be trapped indoors by terrible heat and humidity.

We can’t do much about our weather, but we must fix the problems ailing our state.

They’re serious. As we do, let’s keep our perspective and not lose sight of all that’s good around us. Spring is a time for new beginnings. Enjoy the anticipation! ❚ Janine Pumilia Managing Editor

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O L

Consider Using Organic Fertilizer this Spring

By Peggy Werner

W

e’ve all heard about organic gardening, but what about organic fertilizing?

“Organic fertilizer is really growing in popularity because people are concerned about what chemicals do to their environment and to wildlife,” says Robert Ewald, CEO and president of Ewald Services, Inc., 1119 Turret Drive in Machesney Park. “We’re really seeing a big movement with people wanting healthier but also affordable options.”

To meet the customer demand, Ewald researched products and expanded his 16-year-old landscaping business, Ewald Services. It’s now the exclusive distributer of SumaGreen by SumaGrow in northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin, through his company, JB Green Solutions.

The product allows people to grow

plants organically, while increasing yields, says Ewald. It also improves nutrient and water uptake; improves root and plant growth; improves overall soil health; improves taste and crop quality; speeds germination time and removes soil contamination. The product is a little more expensive than traditional chemical fertilizers, but not as expensive as traditional organic products, Ewald says.

Ewald markets the product to farmers, turf companies and homeowners.

“The product is a biological stimulant that puts microbes back into the soil to unlock the nutrients that are already there,” he explains. “The result is that you get a nice green lawn with no chemical additives and low-toxicity weed control.

“Because I like to do things differently, I looked for options for my customers. I came across this product and was

amazed by the results people in all sectors of life have seen using it, whether growing corn in Ohio or taking care of a lawn in Illinois.

“I researched the product extensively before using it to see how it performed and it gave great results across the board.

It’s safer for people, pets and wildlife than traditional fertilizers and is a completely natural product.” ❚

The Yard Care Experts

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Home Repair: When Not to Do It Yourself I

t looks easy on those home improvement channels – hanging a ceiling fan, putting in that new tile floor, replacing the garbage disposal, repainting the family room. But it’s not always easier or cheaper to DIY. “People start a project and find that it’s more difficult or it’s going to take much longer than they thought,” says Roy Raymond, owner of All Property Services in Rockford. “I get calls all of the time to finish – or fix – someone’s DIY attempts.”

The most important consideration is if you can really handle the job. “Electricity and plumbing are things best handled by the experts,” Raymond says. “One DIYer was hanging a ceiling fan that had two power wires, and he got an incorrect voltage reading of 220 on a 110 circuit. He couldn’t figure out why it wouldn’t work, and he ended up calling me.”

Also, it’s a matter of having the right tools. “When you hang a door, you need a plumb-bob and a long level – a six-inch level isn’t enough,” Raymond says.

Often, DIYers discover unknown problems. “You don’t see everything that they deal with on those DIY shows,” says Raymond.

“In older homes, especially, you’re likely to run into things like faulty wiring, mold or rotten pipes, and find that more is involved than just the project. That’s where professional knowledge and experience pay off.”

Even “simple” jobs, like painting or laying tile, aren’t. “People

are surprised sometimes at how hard it is to paint a room,” Raymond says. “They get paint on the ceiling.

They don’t buy enough paint or good brushes.

It took one woman a week to paint a room, and we redid it in a day.”

Laying a tile floor?

“That looks easy, but you need to start in the exact center of the room and work your way out,” Raymond says.

Many things can go wrong when working on home improvement projects. So, rather than risking injury to yourself or your home, don’t be afraid to ask for help.

“At least call an expert for advice or to get a professional opinion,” Raymond says. “If I can, I’ll even try to walk you through it or ask questions to figure out where you’re going wrong.”

The professional handyman has the knowledge and experience to get your home project completed efficiently and correctly. For help with your projects, call Raymond at (815) 979-9016, or visit apshomepros.com. ❚

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Humility, Not Hubris

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any things seem murky to us, in scripture, but some are very clear. One of the clearest is God’s view of arrogance.

In hundreds of verses throughout the Old and New Testaments, God condemns arrogance and exalts humility. Indeed, it was Lucifer’s excessive pride that got him kicked out of Heaven. God told him: “Since your vast business planning filled you with violent intent from top to bottom, you sinned, so I cast you away as defiled from the mountain of God ... Your heart grew arrogant because of your beauty; you annihilated your own wisdom because of your splendor.

Then I threw you to the ground in the presence of kings, giving them a good look at you!” (Ezekiel 28:16-19, ISV) Proverbs 11:2 tells us, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.”

King David, the only human God referred to as “a man after my own heart,” (I Sam. 13:14 & Acts 13:22), expressed humility. “O Lord, my heart is not lifted up; my

eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me.” (Psalm 131:1) Jeremiah 9:23 tells us, “... Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches …”

Jesus told his followers in Luke 14:11 (ESV): “For everyone who exalts himself will

be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” When his disciples argued

over which of them was greatest, Jesus told them: “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.” (Mark 9:35) Paul instructs, in Philippians 2:3: “Do

nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.”

And in James 4:6: “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

How should we view conceit? “So be imitators of God, as his dear children. Live lovingly, just as the Messiah also loved us and gave himself for us as an offering and sacrifice, a fragrant aroma to God.” ❚ 12

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Y K

Tips to Tackle a Tasty March Madness Menu J

ust like a sports victory, hosting a winning party takes planning, preparation and teamwork. Remember these entertainment tips to score big with your fans.

Scatter the refreshments. Try placing finger foods and other appetizers in a couple of locations, beverages in another area and desserts in yet another space.

Embrace variety. Offer spicy options along with less seasoned dishes, both indulgent and better-for-you treats, plus an array of beverages for drinkers and non-drinkers alike.

Don’t forget the dips. Wings are a staple, and dips are a great pairing. The delicious combination of fresh herb and vegetable flavors make Litehouse Homestyle Ranch a perfect party choice, and Litehouse Chunky Bleu Cheese features fresh buttermilk, homemade mayonnaise and a blend of spices as the backdrop for award-winning artisan blue cheese chunks.

Expand on tradition. Don’t be afraid to put some new flavors into play, such as these Sticky Sesame Chicken Wings with a tangy flair.

Find more game day recipes at LitehouseFoods.com.

Sticky Sesame Chicken Wings Ingredients: 1/4 cup flour 1/4 tsp. salt 20 chicken wings 3 TB soy sauce 2 TB sesame oil 1/2 tsp. Litehouse Instantly Fresh Garlic 3 TB water, divided 1/2 cup brown sugar 1 TB cornstarch sliced green onions, for garnish sesame seeds, for garnish celery sticks (optional) Litehouse Homestyle Ranch and Chunky Bleu Cheese Dressing

Preparation: Heat oven to 400 F. In large bag, combine flour and salt. Add chicken wings and shake to coat. Line baking sheet with foil and spray with pan spray. Place wings in single layer on baking sheet. Bake wings 40-45 minutes, turning halfway through. In sauce pan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, 2 TB water and brown sugar. Whisk together remaining water and cornstarch, and pour into sauce. Bring to boil then simmer until thickened. When wings are done, toss with sauce, garnish with green onion and sesame seeds, and serve with celery sticks, ranch and bleu cheese dressing. ❚

Source: Family Features

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Celebrate Our Cultural Heritage at Midway Village

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day of fun and music will be presented at the second annual Cultural Heritage Celebration at Midway Village Museum, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 18. Midway Village Museum is located at 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford.

The celebration will feature members of community ethnic groups honoring their past and present with educational displays, artifacts, clothing and more. Visitors will see ethnic dancing, hear live music and make craft projects to take home. New in 2017, visitors will visit the museum’s immigration exhibit, Many Faces One Community, where costumed interpreters will be in character as 1800s immigrants to create a unique, immersive experience for all visitors as they go through the historic journey of coming to Rockford. Also new, each visitor will have an opportunity to have their own family’s immigration story professionally preserved in our community’s history archive.

Several ethnic food vendors will sell meals and snacks throughout the day.

The Performance and Presentation Schedule includes: 10 a.m. Irish Fiddle Music – Kaeleigh Miller 10:30 a.m. Syrian Music – Syrian Newcomers Group 11 a.m. International Students Exchange Forum 12 p.m. Irish Traditional Dancing – McNulty Dancers 12:30 p.m. Lao-American Music and Dancing – Lao-American Association of Northern Illinois 1 p.m. Latin Music and Dancing – Ron Holm, Jannie Nelson, Judith Barrera-Tulian 1:30 p.m. Latin Music and Dancing – Association of Latin American Students 2 p.m. Polish Traditional Dancing – St. Stanislaus Church and School 2:30 p.m. African Music and Dancing – Multicultural Club at Rock Valley College 3 p.m. German Dancing and Music – German Society of Rockford 3:30 p.m. Tai Chi Demonstration – Sue Michaelson

Admission is $7 for adults; $5 for

children (3-17 years old) and free for age 2 and under. Museum members enter for free. Tickets can be purchased in advance in the museum’s gift shop, or at the door on the day of the event.

This program is supported by a generous grant from the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois.

Questions? Call (815) 397-9112. ❚

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Y T

How (Not) to Care for Your Cell Phone

By Peggy Werner

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he excitement that comes with owning a new phone won’t last long, if you don’t know how to take care of it.

Anthony Jenkins, owner of Apple Shack Repair Shop, 11706 N. Main St., Roscoe, daily sees the results of carelessness, when it comes to electronic devices.

His business specializes in the repair and replacement of all Apple and Samsung products, including smart phones, tablets, computers and more. He backs up all his repair work with a one-year warranty.

Cracked screens and damage from liquids are among the most common problems he sees with cell phones. People throw phones, set them on top of a car and drive off, step on them, drop them in the toilet or another pool of water.

If your phone gets wet, it needs immediate attention.

“The longer you wait, the more corrosion sets in and the more damage is

done. Water can destroy a phone. You need to turn it off, unplug it, remove the battery, if you can, and get the phone to a repair shop,” he says.

People can extend the life of their phones by protecting them with a tempered glass protector and a protective case that will not only reduce the shock when dropped, but will limit the amount of dust that can accumulate.

Keep the phone clean by using a can of air or a cotton swab with 99 percent Isopropyl alcohol and wipe off all areas where dust can get trapped, like speakers, the headphone jack, and other openings.

Don’t put the phone in a bag of rice to draw out moisture. That doesn’t work,

he says.

“Electronic devices hold their value, so the better you take care of them, the better resale value they will have,” he says.

For more information or to make an appointment, contact Jenkins at appleshackrepair.com or call him at (779) 203-8500. ❚

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Dance Company Premieres ‘Snow White’

By Peggy Werner ost people are familiar with some version of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” but few have experienced it in a live ballet performance.

That will change when the Rockford Dance Company (RDC) presents the world premiere of “Snow White” at 7 p.m. Friday, March 31; and at 1 and 7 p.m. Saturday, April 1, at Hononegah Performing Arts Center, 307 Salem St., Rockton, as choreographed by Milwaukee Ballet II Director and School & Academy Director Rolando Yanes.

“This is quite a large undertaking, compared to restaging an existing ballet,” explains Emily Cooke, executive director and artistic coordinator of the RDC. “This is literally the premiere of an entirely new production.” Cooke will play the Evil Queen, also known as the jealous stepmother of Snow White.

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Pictured on the cover: Emily Cooke, executive director/artistic coordinator of Rockford Dance Company.

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Juliana Eno, age 12, will play the role of Snow White. She’s in seventh grade at Edison Middle School in Janesville, Wis., and most recently danced the lead role of Clara in “The Nutcracker.”

She’s also appeared as a soldier, clown, rat, Clara’s friend, and as a snow angel in previous productions.

John Carlson, a sixth grader at Keith Country Day School, Rockford, will play the Prince. He’s been dancing for six years and has performed as the Mouse, Party Boy Chinese, and Fritz in “The Nutcracker.”

Cooke says more and more ballet companies are performing the story of Snow White, and every version is different, based on the choreographer.

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Some choreographers focus on the dark side of the tale, while the local production will be more balanced, with dancers communicating the story of good and evil with their movements, augmented by music, lighting and costumes.

“Rolando is very big into all the production aspects of a ballet and how to make a story come alive on stage,” says Cooke. “He loves the storytelling and working with lighting. He’s a very inspiring person. The show will be intense and dramatic, but also very magical and enchanting.”

Audience members may remember Yanes as rehearsal master for RDC’s most recent production of “The Nutcracker,” staged this past December. Monica Isle of the Milwaukee Ballet & Academy was the choreographer. This time, they exchanged roles.

After the winter production, Cooke approached Yanes about doing a main stage production with RDC.

R  O R “When we talked, we connected when discussing the endless possibilities for ‘Snow White’ and there wasn’t a question as to what the spring production would be,” says Cooke. “I wanted to bring a ballet to the community that would resonate with people and send them away with a positive message. At the same time, I didn’t want to bring back a production that had been previously performed.”

“Snow White” is a 19th century German fairytale published in 1812 in the first edition of Grimms’ Fairy Tales.

The story begins before Snow White is born. After her mother dies, her father remarries a beautiful but excessively vain, wicked woman who is deeply jealous of lovely and kind Snow White.

The stepmother makes many attempts to have Snow White killed. Snow White runs away and finds a peaceful refuge in the forest with newfound dwarf friends, until one day the wicked stepmother comes to the cottage door disguised as a farmer’s wife and offers Snow White a poisonous apple. Everyone thinks the

wicked stepmother has finally succeeded in murder, but the prince’s love for Snow White brings her back to life.

“People love Snow White because she’s so sweet and innocent, and yet she does have to be industrious enough to run away from danger,” says Cooke.

“No matter where she is, Snow White makes the best of every situation. The Evil Queen, on the other hand, is totally self-absorbed and unhappy; she attempts to elevate herself by hurting others.”

Audiences will enjoy the original spin this production puts on the tale, says Cooke.

“What each person gets out of it will vary from person to person. They may love the costumes, the music, the movements or how it all comes together,” says Cooke. “Hopefully, ballet enthusiasts will walk away thinking they saw welltrained dancers perform to very moving and beautiful choreography. Others will say they saw an amazing performance by the Rockford Dance Company, with a whole lot of dynamics coming together.”

Cooke has been with RDC for more

than a year. A native of Elmhurst, Ill., she started dancing when she was age 3 and has never stopped studying or training. She went to college on dance scholarships while pursuing business and marketing degrees and has worked for Fortune 100 companies.

Get tickets at Rockford Dance Company, 711 N. Main St., or call (815) 963-3341, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mon.Thurs. and 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturdays.

Or order online at tutix.com/Rockford. ❚

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Kitchens & Baths, PatiosDecks, Roofs, Water Gardens, Windows, Landscaping, Gadgets & More!

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Y A C

Spring Snow Demands a Well-Maintained Vehicle

By Peggy Werner

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little snow and rain can spell trouble for motorists, especially those in a hurry to get somewhere.

Ken Tomlinson, owner of AutoEnhancers, 515 18th Ave., knows this to be true because he sees the results a day or two later, after accidents have occurred and people bring in their vehicle for repairs.

“Weather has to be the biggest contributor to car accidents, especially when it rains or snows unexpectedly. People are driving too fast for conditions, are following too closely, and don’t anticipate stopping when they have to. When weather is more severe, people are prepared and plan accordingly,” he says.

The condition of tires, shocks and brakes plays an important role in a driver’s ability to stop on time.

In addition to auto body repair, AutoEnhancers offers a long list of services, including paint refinishing, detailing, mechanical repair, electrical

diagnosis, alignments, heating and airconditioning repair, suspension, exhaust, brakes, tires, glass, mirrors, hardware and trim replacement and all fluid and filter services. In addition, Tomlinson sells some used cars.

Last year, the business created a new website, logo, and signage, while expanding its reach to others through social media. Ken’s wife, Rhonda, is the office manager.

The Tomlinsons say they want to conduct their family business by building trust and relationships with people, always catering to their needs, and being creative enough to set themselves apart and above the competition.

“No one in Rockford does mechanical and body work in one place,” says Ken. “We want to offer customers a complete line of services for vehicles.

There’s nothing we won’t do here and all the work gets done right here at our shop.

Nothing is sent out to be completed.

We’re trying to build an awareness of all that we do. Even our customers are not aware of the many services we provide, and we’re trying to change that.”

Learn more at autoenhancersinc.com or call (815) 961-9465. ❚

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Avoid Foot Pain by Wearing the Right Shoes P

By Peggy Werner

eople usually walk into Akerman’s Shoes at Edgebrook Center, 1613 N. Alpine Road, after friends and foot doctors recommend they go there to get relief for their aching feet.

The store is known for its quality, supportive shoes and great customer service. In business for 57 years, Akerman’s has always catered to seniors looking for comfort and supportive shoes, but younger people are feeling the need, too.

“They know we have always taken care of Mom and Grandma, and they come to us when they need help, too,” says Diane Cooling, buyer at Akerman’s.

“Teens, especially, are now coming in for Birkenstock sandals, and they don’t look much different than they did when their parents bought them,” she says.

Birkenstock is headquartered in Germany and its clogs and sandals have been

available in the U.S for 50 years. The company is known for crafting premium quality shoes that promote health and well-being.

Aetrex and Alegria are two of the newest brands of shoes, boots and sandals at Akerman’s. Oofos is a sandal made with foam for comfort and support

and is engineered to help painful feet recover quickly from a workout or long day at work. The shoe is designed to be 37 percent more shock absorbent than regular footwear, while cradling the arch and flexing with the foot when walking.

“People put on these shoes and feel instant relief from pain,” she says.

Many manufacturers of shoes today are responding to the foot problems caused by wearing inexpensive shoes that don’t offer proper support.

Expect to pay a little more for better shoes that fit right. “People always say it’s worth it,” Cooling says.

Learn more at akermanshoes.com or call (815) 397-9706. ❚

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Save Time, Reduce Stress When Meal Planning T oday’s families are incredibly busy.

How are they supposed to come up with wholesome dinners? Here are some tips.

Planning meals for the week ahead is a great time-saver. You can even select a weekly theme, which adds a fun element.

Check out factsupfront.org/MealPlans for themes - from Harvest and Festive Holidays to No-Cook Dinners – to help guide your next shopping trip.

Here are five other tips: Customize your grocery list. To save time and ensure you don’t miss any necessities, organize a grocery list by department before you shop. It helps you to streamline your trip so you can get in and out fast and to spend less on impulse items.

Take note of Facts Up Front. Save time shopping and make informed decisions by using the Facts Up Front label

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on the front of packages. Many brands participate in this voluntary program that brings key nutrient information right to the front of the package, making it easier for shoppers to see calories, sodium, sugar, saturated fat and more, without ever having to take a product off the shelf.

Prepare vegetables for an entire week. Chopping, dicing and slicing are some of the most time-consuming parts of preparing meals. Cut up all your veggies on Sunday to last the entire week.

March 15To advertise call 815-316-2300

That way you have chopped onions and celery ready to go for Wednesday’s casserole, and carrot sticks set aside for graband-go snacks for the kids.

Cook double batches. Popular family meals such as homemade mac-andcheese, lasagna and chicken pot pie can serve double duty as tonight’s dinner and a future meal. Simply freeze one and bake the other.

Utilize the slow cooker and freeze for the future. Start meals in the morning and come home to a warm, delicious dinner that’s ready to eat. Once you find recipes you enjoy, you can make many ahead of time, freeze in bulk or in individual portions and pull out as needed.

Visit factsupfront.org for more shopping tips and tricks. ❚

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

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

Create "A Simple Life" with Vino van Gogh March 15, 7 p.m. Sign up, show up and have fun.

The instructor brings everything you need to create a work of art.

Hope andgorockford.com Anchor English Pub, Rockford, IL 61101 1.800.521.0849 5040 N. 2nd St., Loves Park, (866) 390-0017, vinogogh.com.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

Brews & Views: "National Lampoon's Animal House" March 15, 7:30 p.m., doors 7 p.m. View one of the all-time great comedies, "National Lampoon's Animal House," while enjoying craft beers and great food. Prairie Street Brewing Co., 200 Prairie St., gorockford.com/events.

Missouri Botanical's Japanese Garden March 16, 7 p.m. Mr. Ben Chu presents about the history of Seiwa en, the Japanese Garden at Missouri Botanical Garden. He discusses the Garden's progression from conception to present day and focuses on current efforts being made to preserve it for the future. Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 316-3306, andersongardens.org.

"The Last Romance" March 16-26, Th. 7:30 p.m., Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 4 p.m. & 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. On an ordinary day in a routine life, Ralph decides to take a different path on his daily walk -- one that leads him to the dog park and an unexpected second chance at love. Artists' Ensemble Theater, 5050 E. State St., Rockford University, Clark Arts Center, Rockford, (815) 394-5004, artistsensemble.org.

The Studio Presents: "Disney's Beauty and the Beast" March 17-19, Fri. 7 p.m., Sat. 2 p.m. & 6 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. The beloved classic comes to life in an enchanted and magical way. This tale as old as time, with its memorable music and endearing characters, has a deeper message about not judging a book by its cover, a message that’s as timely today as it was when the fairy tale was first released. Rockford University, Maddox Theater, 5050 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 670-7112, gorockford.com/events.

Rockin' Lilies in the Rock River Valley March 18, 9-11 a.m. Learn simple propagation techniques and hear about the wide variety of lilies that flourish in our area and how to design a garden with lilies so some are in bloom all summer long. Klehm Arboretum and Botanic

Miranda Lambert will perform at the BMO Harris Bank Center on March 18.

Garden, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford, (815) 9658146, klehm.org.

Severson Saturday: Mammal Madness!

March 18, 10 a.m.-noon. What makes a mammal a mammal? What do mammals have that allows them to survive in extreme environments? Make a mammal craft and go on a guided hike to learn about the mammals of Severson Dells (hikes leave every half hour). Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road, Rockford, (815) 335-2915, seversondells.com.

Cultural Heritage Celebration March 18, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The second annual celebration features ethnic groups from our community's past and present with educational displays, artifacts, clothing, ethnic dancing, live music and a take-home craft. Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, (815) 397-9112, midwayvillage.com.

Miranda Lambert: Highway Vagabond Tour March 18, 7 p.m. Country music star Miranda Lambert brings her tour to Rockford, along with “garage country” singer Aubrie Sellers and 2016 CMA Vocal Group of the Year nominee Old Dominion. BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford, (815) 968-5222, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com.

Spring Organ Music March 20, 5:30 p.m. Celebrate the start of spring by attending a free concert on the grand Möller pipe organ, featuring talented local performers.

Sing along and enjoy a reception following the performance. Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 406 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 9649713, mendelssohnpac.org. ❚

For More Attractions & Events Visit GoRockford.com Tell them you saw it in ...

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March 15

27

WDL

Restaurant of the Week

Cannova’s Fine Italian Cuisine

By Paul Anthony Arco

C

annova’s has been serving up authentic Italian dishes and pizza since 1921, when Anthony and Philippina Cannova started the restaurant – a pizzeria in the back of the grocery store they ran at 607 E. Winneshiek St., in Freeport. After son Frank returned from World War II, he took over and moved Cannova’s to its current location in 1964.

Today, their granddaughter, Linda, and her husband, Patrick Beckman, carry on the tradition, at 1101 W. Empire St. They use many of Frank’s original recipes for pizza, spaghetti sauce, Italian beef, fresh bread and pizza dough. House specials include a Sicilian filet marinated in olive oil and red wine, Italian-style baked cod, and seafood Alfredo. Desserts include Linda’s made-fromscratch tiramisu, cheesecake and chocolate spoon cake.

“Cannova’s is a wonderful place,” Pat Beckman says. “It gives people a great place to go. It’s not overly expensive, and we have great food and great music.”

Then there are the pizzas: the Classic, with diced tomatoes, fresh basil, spinach and sweet basil; the New York, with olive oil on the crust, fresh garlic, mozzarella and diced tomatoes with a house cheese; the double-crusted Gloria Read, named for a longtime customer; and the a Sicilian, with sliced Italian sausage and pepperoncinis,

voted “best traditional pizza” by Pizza Today in 2001. Cannova’s Chicken Tuscany pizza earned a silver medal at the 2005 International Pizza Expo in Las Vegas.

The friendly rapPat and Linda Beckman port among staff and customers is another reason for the restaurant’s success. Many employees have worked there for 10 to 25 years. “This business is interesting because of all the people that you meet. Being in a smaller town like Freeport, you know everyone,” Beckman says.

“We have people who grew up working here and are still here. It’s fascinating to see the evolution of people. It’s like a family.”

Cannova’s is home to jazz quartets, folk musicians and musical theater groups throughout the year. For two weeks in December, it hosts a popular holiday dinner theater.

Cannova’s is open Sun.-Tues. 5-10 p.m. and Fri.-Sat. until 11 p.m. ❚ ❚

Top Picks for Local Restaurants 9 East Coffee E Casual/Coffeehouse. Specialty coffees, pas- sandwiches, desserts. 33 Executive Parkwy., Rockford, (815) tries, breakfast, lunch. 9 E. Stephenson St., Freeport, (815) 398-5700. LD Sun-Th 11 am-10 pm, F-Sat to 11 pm.

233-7300, BkL M-F 7am-3pm, Sat 7am-2pm. $ Giovanni’s/Big Al’s Bar/Alchemy E Upscale-casual/AmeriArturo’s Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Authentic Mexican. 107 can. Three dining rooms. 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford.

W. Main St., Poplar Grove, Ill., (815) 765-1144. LD M 11am-8pm; (815) 398-6411. LD M-Th 11a.m.-10 pm, F to 11 pm, Sat 3-11 pm. Live entertainment, open late. $-$$.

T-Th to 9pm; F to 10pm; Sun noon-8pm. $.

Bravo Pizza E Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, South Be- GreenFire EUpscale-Casual/American contemporary. Sealoit, Ill., (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $. sonal cuisine; local-sourced ingredients; gourmet market; live entertainment. 6795 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, (815) Cannova’s Italian Cuisine E Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., Free316-3473. BkLD M-F 11am; Sat-Sun 8 am. Bar open late. $$. port, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. $-$$.

Local Dough Cafe E Restaurant/cafe. Baked goods, breakCosta’s Ristorante E Upscale-Casual/Italian. 133 Blackhawk fast, lunch, dinner, beer, wine. 202 W. Main St., Rockton, Dr., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. LD Daily 4pm. $-$$.

(815) 957-0584. BkLD W-Sun 7 am-6 pm. $.

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit ECasual/BBQ. 845 S. Perryville Road, Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint E Fine Dining. Ironworks Rockford, (815) 599-1110. LD Daily 11 a.m.-9 p.m. $-$$.

Hotel, 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, (608) 313-0700. D Sun-Th Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Mexican. Authen- 4:30-9pm, Fri-Sat to 10pm. $$. tic dishes, lunch menu. 5855 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 227Prairie Street Brewhouse E Upscale-Casual/American. 200 4979. L D Sun-Th 11 a.m.-10 p.m., F-Sat to 10:30 p.m. $-$$.

Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Franchesco’s Ristorante E Upscale/Italian-American. Som- Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$. melier, live entertainment. 7128 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, Thrive Café E Casual/Cafe. Salads, wraps, sandwiches, (815) 229-0800. LD Sun-Th 4-9pm, F-Sat to 10pm. $$ smoothies, cold-pressed juices. Inside Peak Fitness, 4401 Peak Fresco at the Gardens. E Casual/American Café. Fresh, local- Drive, Loves Park, Ill. BkLD M-F 6am-8pm, Sat 8am-2pm. sourced ingredients. 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) Vito’s Ristorante E Casual/Fine Dining. Carry-out, steak & 316-2256 BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$ seafood, Italian specialties, pizza. 4866 Bluestem Road, RosGiordano’s E Casual/Italian. Stuffed pizza, salads, entrees, coe, Ill. (815) 312-5080. D Mon.-Sat. 4 p.m.-close. $-$$.. ❚ 28

Smart Living Weekly

March 15To advertise call 815-316-2300

In the Spotlight Bravo Pizza

W

ith more than 40 years in the restaurant business, Joe Ocello knows how to create an authentic dining experience. Since opening the first Bravo Pizza & Italian Restaurant location in 2001 with wife Francesca, the couple has been refining its classic Italian fare.

Most items are made from scratch, ensuring a home-made meal with fresh ingredients. The Italian beef, served au jus or with tomato meat sauce, was named Best in the Stateline by MyStateline.com in 2013. Top sellers include Italian meatball sandwiches, fettucine Alfredo and fish specials.

“We make it all ourselves. Each meatball is about a quarter pound apiece, so they’re huge,” says Ocello.

Bravo has locations in South Beloit and Poplar Grove. Both offer a full-service bar, catering, carry-out and delivery services.

Learn more at Bravopizzarestaurant.com. ❚

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.”

Tell them you saw it in ...Smart Living Weekly

March 15

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March 15To advertise call 815-316-2300

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Smart Living Weekly

March 15

9

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March 15To advertise call 815-316-2300

Y M

You Don’t Have to Let Your Money Control You

By Peggy Werner

I

t’s why some people get married and often why they get divorce; it can give you freedom and status or it can send you into a pit so deep you see no way out.

What is “it?” Money, of course.

“One of the most stressful things in life is money, especially if you don’t have enough of it,” says Matt Lynch, director of marketing for MembersAlliance Credit Union, 2550 S. Alpine Road.

“Money is constantly on people’s minds and managing it better is one of the most common goals people have,” he says.

It’s important to control your money rather than to allow it to control you, Lynch says. MembersAlliance Credit Union offers many services that help people to save, budget and manage money through a variety of account options, low- interest loans and credit cards.

Credit unions offer similar services as banks; the main difference is that they’re not-for-profit and the account holders, called members, are the owners. Often, members are able to get more favorable, customer-friendly terms with their accounts and loans, he says.

Money helps us to pay our bills, to satisfy our wants and needs, to feel more secure and to have fun. But we have to live within our means, save, and budget.

“The better you manage your money, the less stress you’ll have,” says Lynch.

“Everyone will always worry about money, but those who have planned well will experience less stress. It’s a matter that won’t go away, so making the most of what you have is important.”

In addition to its South Alpine Road headquarters, MembersAlliance has

Rockford branch locations at 6951 Olde Creek Road and inside Wal-Mart Supercenters on West Riverside Boulevard and Walton Street; there’s also a branch at the Wal-Mart on Rockton Road in Rockton. ❚

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

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