Smart Living Weekly February 12, 2020

Sm mart a r L iving mar Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • February 12, 2020

™

Right in Our Region

Spark Ideas, Have Fun at Rockford Home Show See Page 16

Discover Engineering!

Is it Time for a Home Facelift?

Recipe: Cooking with Veggies & Nuts How a Tech Revamp Saves You Money

FREE WIN!

$50 Gift Card to Bramble Patch

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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WELCOME HOME! BECAUSE IT IS HOME OPENING FEBRUARY 2020 - NOW LEASING! The TLC Living Community is an assisted living community designed to provide a vibrant, yet secure and comfortable way for its residents to age in place.

From an independent life experience to assistance with healthcare needs, you’ll get it all without leaving the comfort of your apartment. Conveniently located in Machesney Park, TLC Living Community offers an abundance of included amenities…too many to list here! Call for a personal tour to see for yourself why everyone is celebrating!

What are you waiting for?

Call Today! (815) 242-2852

8702 N. 2ND ST., UNIT B MACHESNEY PARK, IL 61115 / (815) 242-2852 / WWW.TLC-MP.COM /  FOLLOW US

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 16 Spark Some Ideas at Home Show Your Outing ...................................................9, 24 Winter Fun; Discover Engineering Your Home ............................................ ..... 11, 19 Hiring a House Cleaner; Flooring Tips Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Loving Our Enemies Your Kitchen ......................................................15 Veggies & Nuts for Heart Health Your Outdoor Living .........................................20 Prevent Ice Dams Your Technology ...............................................21 How to Save Money Your Health ............................................. .......... 23 Treating the Whole Person Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 Baci’s Kitchen Your Money ................................................ ....... 29 Buying and Selling Your Tools

Smart L iving ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen Lukas Assistant Managing Editor Jermaine Pigee Editor Emeritus Janine Pumilia Multimedia Editor Sara Myers 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 2020 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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KIDS & PARKING FREE!

Abe Lincoln: Our Greatest President

February 21-22-23 FRI. 3-8, SAT. 10-7, SUN. 11-5

“H

onest Abe” Lincoln consistently ranks as our nation’s greatest U.S. president, followed by Franklin D. Roosevelt and George Washington. Born Feb. 12, 1809, he not only led the nation through its bloodiest war, but also its most difficult moral, Constitutional and political crisis.

After the Civil War, Lincoln didn’t gloat.

Instead, he set a tone of mercy, not vengeance, toward the South. He vetoed the Wade-Davis bill that would have imposed conditions on Southern states that he deemed too harsh. This was one of only four vetoes of his presidency.

Lincoln respected the Constitutional role of Congress as a co-equal branch and law maker.

After the Civil War, Lincoln worked to rebuild national unity. Most scholars believe the brutal Reconstruction era would have played out much less painfully had Lincoln not been assassinated on April 15, 1865.

Just six weeks before, on March 4, he famously concluded his second Inaugural address, “With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation’s wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan, to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations.”

Lincoln was known both as a shrewd politician and a humble man. He was an eloquent communicator who consistently put the needs of our country above his own and ardently sought divine guidance.

In his honor, eight free special performances will be presented throughout Illinois Feb. 20 to May 30 by the Looking for Lincoln National Heritage Area.

The one nearest to us will be May 21, 6:30 p.m., at Freeport Public Library.

Learn more at LookingforLincoln. com and have a great week! ❚

INDOOR SPORTS CENTER AT MERCYHEALTH SPORTSCORE TWO, 8800 E. RIVERSIDE BLVD.

IMPROVE, REMODEL & BEAUTIFY THE HOME & YARD!

BRING THE KIDS! Kid's Building Projects daily with Home Depot

“RAPTORS, HAWKS, VULTURES, SNAKES, TURTLES & MORE!”

BALLOON TWISTING, FACE PAINTING, JUMPY HOUSE, KIDS GARDENING. ANTIQUE ROAD SHOW!

FREE ANTIQUE APPRAISALS SUN. 1:30-3:30 VISITORS BRING IN ANTIQUES, COLLECTIBLES, COINS, TOYS OR JUST ABOUT ANYTHING!

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es, Inc. (815)

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MORE INFO: 815-871-7469 WWW.SHOWTIMEPRODUCTION.NET

Janine Pumilia SLW Editor

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Y O

Discover Engineering Feats on Feb. 15 C

omputer science engineers are working on robots so tiny they fit inside the human body. They’re also developing cutting-edge music software. Hard to believe? Not if you’re an engineer.

Local engineering feats will be showcased at Discovery Center Museum on Saturday, Feb. 15 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to celebrate National Engineers’ Week, which runs Feb. 16 to 22.

Biomedical engineers develop artificial lenses that restore sight to the blind; environmental engineers find ways to clean up our oceans and rivers; agricultural and biomedical engineers design methods of keeping harmful microorganisms out of our food supply.

Cars are safer, medical tests are more accurate, and computers and cell phones are a lot more fun, all thanks to engineers.

Discover Engineering features engineers from local companies, along with members of the local professional engi-

neering societies and high school robotics teams, providing demonstrations, handson activities and general information.

Elementary and middle school-age children will take part in numerous experiments and hands-on activities such as trying out a fluidized air bed, experimenting with circuits and motorized gears, participating in chemistry experiments,

watching liquid nitrogen demonstrations and much more.

A variety of companies and groups will be represented, including Woodward, Collins Aerospace, Advanced Machine & Engineering, Danfoss, Fehr Graham, Aqua-Aerobic Systems, TAC Rockford, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Superior Joining Technologies, Ingersoll Machine Tools, Rockford Makers, National Society of Black Engineers, and the Illinois Space Grant Consortium, along with several engineering societies and high school robotics teams.

Discover Engineering is sponsored by TAC Rockford, Thermo Fisher Scientific, the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers – Rockford Chapter, Advanced Machine & Engineering, Exelon and Dr. Zak Pediatric Dentistry. Cost is included with museum admission - $9 adults; $9 children ages 2-17; free to members and children age 1 and younger. Learn more at discoverycentermuseum.org. ❚

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Y H  G

It’s a Good Time to Plan Home Remodeling

By Peggy Werner

W

ith spring just around the corner, it’s time to think about remodeling projects that allow you more enjoyment in your home or get a house ready to sell.

Owner Tod Chapman of C & H Design Center in Belvidere says he does a lot of measuring this time of year as people look beyond winter in anticipation of getting some much-needed work done.

“People have recovered from the holidays, they’re getting their tax return checks, they’re tired of being indoors, and the Super Bowl is over,” he says.

So, for all those reasons, people are ready to venture out and start choosing colors and materials. They’re drawing up plans to finish a basement, remodel a kitchen or bathroom, or update flooring, he says.

To help people make their selections, C & H Design Center will have a booth set up at the 40th annual Rockford Home

Show, Feb. 21-23 at the Indoor Sports Center, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, Ill. To help customers get started when planning projects, he suggests everyone begin with an idea of what they want to accomplish and have a budget in mind for the projects. From there, C & H can help in the selection of color, design, and layout to visualize what the finished project will look like and what changes will or will not work out in a designated space.

People also need to be honest about why they want to make changes, whether for their own pleasure or for making the house attractive for someone else, he says.

“If you’re going to stay in your own home and want to do something, just do it and get the enjoyment out of your redesign,” he says. “If you’re planning to

sell in a couple years or less, you need to be more careful, especially if you want a return on your investment.”

Trendy colors are neutral, mostly warm greys and whites; larger tiles and simple, smooth, clean designs are popular. With the emphasis now on decluttering, people want the look of simplicity.

This means storage options to get things out of sight are very much in demand.

For more information, visit the design center at 6506 Logan Ave., in Belvidere or call them at (815) 547-8453. ❚

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I  W

Love Our Enemies?

A

s flawed human beings, we tend to cling to scriptures that agree with our personal view of life and avoid those which challenge us. This kind of cherry picking stunts our spiritual growth and robs us of the blessings that maturity in Christ brings. The more we make up our minds to conform our thinking to God’s thinking, the richer our lives will be in ways that matter most.

It’s folly to believe we know more than God does about how life is best lived – After all, God created life.

Jesus spends a great deal of time addressing two problem areas we humans prefer not to think about: our relationship to money and our relationship to other people, especially those we don’t like or we look down upon. It’s well worth the time to study both subjects by reading all four gospels – Matthew, Mark, Luke and John – with an eye for what Jesus instructs on both matters.

Human nature has not changed since he confronted these subjects about 2,020 years ago.

In Luke 6:32-35 (NIV), Jesus tells us, “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do that.

And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to be repaid in full. But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.”

Wow, this is scary. Who wants to love his or her enemies? Who are our enemies? How do we act on such a thing?

Finding practical application within our own lives requires diligent study of scripture and much prayer. But it’s an act of faith that brings its own reward.

“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek him.” – Hebrews 11:6 (NIV) – Janine Pumilia

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Y K

Tasty Ways to Prepare Veggies, Nuts A

dding fruits & vegetables to everyday dishes adds flavor and nutrition.

Find more recipes at American Heart Association, heart.org. For more tasty peanut recipes, go to Georgia Peanut Commission, gapeanuts.com.

Black-Eyed Pea, Corn & Rice Salad Servings: 6

2 cans (15 1/2 oz.s each) no-salt or lowsodium black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained 1 can (15 1/4 oz.) low-sodium or no-saltadded whole-kernel corn 1 package (8 1/2 oz.) brown rice, microwaved

according to package directions and broken into small pieces 2 medium ribs celery, chopped 1 medium bell pepper, seeded and chopped 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 TB water 1/8 tsp. black pepper

In large bowl, stir peas, corn, rice, celery, pepper, parsley, olive oil, water and black pepper until combined.

Peanut Butter Squares

1 package (17 1/2 ounces) peanut butter cookie mix 3 TB vegetable oil 1 TB water 1 egg 3 cups miniature marshmallows 2/3 cup light corn syrup 2 TB butter 2 tsp. vanilla 1 bag (10 oz.) peanut butter chips 2 cups crispy rice cereal 2 cups salted roasted peanuts

Heat oven to 350 F. Spray 13-by9-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray.

In large bowl, stir cookie mix, oil,

water and egg until soft dough forms.

Press dough into prepared pan.

Bake 15-20 minutes, or until set.

Sprinkle marshmallows over crust.

Bake 1-2 minutes until marshmallows begin to puff. Remove from oven.

In 4-quart saucepan over low heat, heat corn syrup, butter, vanilla and peanut butter chips, stirring constantly until chips are melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

Stir in cereal and peanuts; spoon mixture evenly over marshmallow layer.

Refrigerate 30 minutes, or until firm.

Cut into bars and serve.

(Source: Family Features)

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R  O R

40th Home Show Offers Family Fun I

f you want to see what’s new in home projects, or are simply looking for some weekend family fun, you may want to check out the 40th Annual Rockford Home Show at the Indoor Sports Center, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., on Feb. 21-23.

Free appraisals from Hack’s Auction & Antiques are back by popular demand at the 40th annual Rockford Home Show.

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Along with hundreds of home and garden product vendors, you’ll find entertainment that includes live raptor shows, kids’ gardening projects, balloon twisting lessons, face painting, a jumpy house, cooking and product demonstrations, an “antique road show” and more – all for $6 adult admission, free to children under age 12.

Parking is free and discount admission coupons are available from area McDonald’s.

More than 200 vendors with knowledge about home and garden products and services will be available to answer questions, spark some ideas and schedule home estimates.

“The Home Show is the ideal place to shop for new products, services, ideas, concepts and expertise on interior and exterior design,” says Andrea NicholsCostello, of Showtime Productions in

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Milwaukee, the show’s producer. “Also take in a touch of spring with the landscaping and water feature displays.”

Creative backyard design exhibits include an exciting “fire and water” exhibit filled with spring flowers, by Tyler’s Landscaping and the “Backyard Retreat” exhibit from Hernandez Brothers Professional Landscape will have us counting the days until spring. On Sunday afternoon, all flowers will be sold at bargain prices starting at 2 p.m.

Hoo Haven Wildlife Rehabilitation & Education Center will present “Raptors, Up Close and Personal” plus “Scales & Tales,” featuring live animals.

“Get excited about Mother Earth, learn what you can do to help preserve it and see snakes, hawks, turkey vultures, turtles and more,” says Nichols-Costello.

Learn more about Hoo Haven at HooHaven.org.

R  O R -- Kids’ Building Projects with Home Depot from 4:45 to 6 p.m.

Saturday

“Raptors, Up Close and Personal” and “Scales & Tales,” presented by Hoo Haven Wildlife Rehabilitation & Education Center, will be at the 40th annual Rockford Home Show.

The “antique road show” is back by popular demand. This is your chance to get items appraised by professionals from Hack’s Auction and Antiques on Sunday from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Bring items such as antiques, collectibles, coins, toys. This is free with admission.

Here’s the entertainment lineup:

Friday

-- Balloon-twisting lessons with Ms. Twisty Pants at 4:15 and 5 p.m.

-- Raptors, Up Close and Personal with Hoo Haven at 4:30 & 6 p.m.

-- Balloon-twisting lessons with Ms. Twisty pants at 11:15 a.m. and 1 p.m., 2:45 and 4:30 p.m.

-- Scales and Tales, learning about tortoises, turtles and snakes with Hoo Haven at 11:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.

-- Raptors, Up Close & Personal with Hoo Haven at 1:30 and 3:30 p.m.

-- Kids’ Gardening Projects with the Landscape Connection at 12:15 and 4 p.m.

-- Kids’ Building Projects with Home Depot at 2 and 3:30 p.m.

pot from 11 a.m. to noon -- Kids’ Gardening Projects with Landscape Connection at 12:15 p.m.

-- Raptors, Up Close & Personal with Hoo Haven at 12:15 and 2:45 p.m.

-- Scales & Tales with Hoo Haven at 1:30 p.m.

-- Blooming flowers on sale at 2 p.m.

Face painting and a bouncy house are open all weekend.

Hours are Friday, Feb. 21 3-8 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 22 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Feb. 23, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. ❚

Sunday

-- Antique appraisals with Hack’s Auction from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

-- Balloon-twisting lessons with Ms. Twisty Pants at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 and 1:45 p.m.

-- Kids’ Building Projects with Home De-

Exhibitors conduct business and visitors get their questions answered at the Home Show.

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Y H  G

LVT Flooring: Combining Beauty & Durability S

By Janine Pumilia hopping for flooring can feel overwhelming because of all the branding terms, competing products and continual innovations in flooring technology.

Remember that you don’t have to go it alone. The staff at reputable flooring centers can help you to narrow down your options.

“When I get answers to some key questions about what people are looking for, I can direct them to products that make the most sense for them,” says Kevin Rose, owner of Carpetland, 326 N. Alpine Road, Rockford. “How many people live in your home? Are there children? Pets? Is the new flooring for a hightraffic family room? A low-traffic spare bedroom? Is moisture is an issue?

“My four salespeople have more than 100 years of flooring experience among them. They know their products

and keep up with changes by meeting frequently with industry reps. Take advantage of that.”

So what are the latest flooring trends? Luxury vinyl tiles and planks (LVT and LVP) are all the rage due to their good looks, easy maintenance, durability and cost competitiveness.

Luxury vinyl marries the benefits of a man-made product with the look of natural materials like wood or stone. It’s used in homes of all price points. It gained traction in kitchens and laundry rooms, then migrated to larger living spaces in American homes nationwide.

It’s important to pay attention to quality when buying luxury vinyl. There’s no question that the 99-cent per square foot

kind found at big-box stores is inferior to the $3 to $6 product, says Rose.

“It’s like everything else – you get what you pay for. Poorer quality LVT won’t look as good or have good embossing (texture). It may not be as thick and the finish will likely be inferior. For both hardwood and LVT, the finish is extremely important because it’s what protects the flooring over time.” ❚

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O L

Prevent Ice Dams from Causing Leaks I

f snow and ice is not cleared from your roof, you could struggle with leaks in your home, says Toby Lask, executive vice president of Lask Roofing & Siding, 1101 22nd St., Rockford. The company offers assistance and advice on roofing needs year-round and recently added inhouse financing options for customers.

Ice dams form when water freezes in the eaves of your roof, preventing drainage. If left untreated, ice dams will continue to build up. Water backed up from an ice dam can leak into your house through the windows or ceiling. Cleared gutters allow rainwater and melting snow to drain properly.

“After a snowfall, try to use a roof rake to pull down snow along gutter edges to help water flow and help prevent ice damming,” Lask says. “Also, chop or chisel thicker ice dams to create drain

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trenches along valley bottoms and gutter edges to help allow air flow.”

Ice dams may be removed by spreading roof friendly salt along the ice dams, Lask says, but be sure to choose the right ones. “Lots of ice melt salts on the market today are not roof friendly. Be sure to check prior to applying the salt.”

Homeowners should remove leaves, sticks and other debris from valleys, gutters and downspouts before the first snowfall, but should use extreme caution.

Never climb a ladder to reach a roof if you feel unsafe doing so.

“There are many dangers and risks involved in roofing and winter weather,” Lask says. “Personal safety is most important. Always seek a professional opinion prior to attempting any roof services.”

There are things that can be done to prevent such situations.

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“Have a professional roofing contractor install a high-grade, self-regulating heat cable along sections of your home to help reduce build-up of ice and snow,” Lask suggests. “A roofing contractor also can install a gutter protection system that helps to prevent the buildup.” ❚

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

Y T

Technology Upgrades Can Save You Money

By Peggy Werner

W

ant to save some money each month? Technology upgrades may be the way to do that, says Charles Zambrano, owner of EZ Satellite and Technologies.

Zambrano has expanded his business and is now working with Nest to bring the conveniences of home automation into his customers’ lives.

“Everyone has a smartphone, 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. Products like the Google Nest Hub, Google Assistant and Amazon’s Alexa are just a few of the most popular options for people who want to monitor and access their homes and businesses remotely or with voice commands.

Many of these devices connect to cameras showing you 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.

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 is an authorized Dish Network retailer licensed to offer services from any provider using dish, cable, internet and home security, such as Rise Broadband, Comcast, HughesNet, DirectTV, Digitenna, Protect America, ATT and Nest Products.

Smart devices often plug into these systems for additional functionality.

This story comes to life!

To view this video, simply: 1) Download the Wikitude app 2) Open the app and search “SLM” 3) Scan this entire page using the app’s AR Lens

EZ Satellite & Wireless maintains storefronts in Loves Park and Elgin, but its team also offers in-home consultations and full installation services.

Contact EZ Satellite & Technologies at (815) 957-4335. ❚

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Y H

A Natural Approach to Whole Body Wellness

By Peggy Werner

C

ircle of Wellness, 3626 E. State St., in Fairview Plaza, continues to grow its services to promote wellness.

Owner and founder Leila MacQueen, born and raised in Rockford, is a licensed massage and bodywork therapist who’s worked in her field for nearly 20 years.

“I want to offer a full ‘Circle of Wellness’ to people in our community,” says MacQueen. “The body is made up of systems all dependent upon one another and you can’t treat one problem without treating the whole person.

“We’re not a spa, so you don’t have to pay for all the extras,” she says. “We don’t want to price gouge people. We just want to help people, to keep our business here and to have a good reputation.”

Circle of Wellness specializes in medical massage for people who’ve suffered auto injuries. It offers acupuncture,

chiropractic services for all ages, reflexology, nutrition counseling, aromatherapy and more.

MacQueen first opened her clinic on the corner of East State Street and Alpine Road and employed a staff of three people. Two years later, she hired a doctor and added some medical services. Seven years later she hired another doctor and added pediatric services. Four years ago she moved to her current location and business grew by 200 percent, she says.

Dr. James Morgano D.C., studied at the National College of Chiropractics and is a Chiropractic Sports Physician certified in acupuncture. His goal is to treat a person inside and out for complete wellness and he offers treatment in nutrition, acupuncture, physical therapy, supplements and UVB light therapy for vitamin D deficiency.

Dr. Colleen Noe earned her Doctor of Chiroptractic degree from Logan

University in Chesterfield, Mo. and also holds a degree in human life science sciences. She has worked with chiropractic physicians, physical therapists and medical doctors. Her focus includes pediatric and pregnancy care, orthopedics and geriatric care.

MacQueen also employs more than a dozen massage therapists, an advanced nurse practitioner, esthetician, aromatherapist, personal trainer, nutritionist and office staff. Services are covered in network with most insurance companies and Medicare. Learn more at circleofwellnessrockford.com. ❚

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Don’t Miss Out on Winter Outdoor Fun!

By Peggy Werner

Y

ou know who owns our public forest preserves and parks? We the people do! So let’s get out and enjoy them, no matter what season it is.

Winter is a great time for outdoor discovery, says Jamie Johannsen, Forest Preserves of Winnebago County marketing and community relations manager. The forest preserves, Severson Dells and Rocktown Adventures have teamed up to encourage outdoor fun.

“Winter offers some of the best opportunities for wildlife observation,” says Johannsen.

Upcoming events include a Honeysuckle Hiking Stick workshop from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22 at Severson Dells. Honeysuckle grows uncontrollably in the forest, but the invasive plant takes on a new and useful life when transformed into walking sticks. Nature Educator Ellen Rathbone will provide

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tools and training. The cost is $15 for non-members and registration is required

by Feb. 17 by calling (815) 335-2915 or going to seversondells.com.

Severson Dells Naturalist/Educator Andrea Wallace Noble says many animals are especially active during mild winters, like the one we’ve had so far.

“Every species has a different way of handling winter, but most stay active unless they have to protect themselves from the harshest weather conditions,” she

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says. “I appreciate this time of year because you can see so much. Dress right and you can enjoy nature at any time.”

Kevin Versino, general manager of Rocktown Adventures, 313 N. Madison St., organizes guided snowshoe hikes throughout the winter that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.

“If you can put one foot in front of the other, you can snowshoe and you don’t even need a lot of snow. Snowshoeing is the fastest growing winter sport,” he says.

Check out the event schedule at rocktownadventures.com.

Johannsen says walk-in use is welcomed at all forest preserve locations.

Some hard paths are kept cleared of snow.

Visit winnebagoforest.org to see a list of areas accessible by vehicles and hard paths for pedestrian use during the winter. ❚

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

Winter Fun 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.

'Bedroom Farce' Thru Feb. 16, Fri.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m.

The comedy takes place in the bedrooms of Rockford, IL 61101 gorockford.com three married1.800.521.0849 couples over the course of one long night. Janesville Little Theatre, 906 W. Racine St., Janesville, Wis., (608) 756-4172‎, janesvilletheatre.org.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

RAM: Sonic Disruptions: Buisch & Hogin Thru May 25, daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thu. to 7 p.m. Chair of Painting and Sculpture at the U of I, Laurie Hogin creates beautiful yet bizarre landscapes. Derrick Buisch, a professor at the U of WI, Madison, creates evocative imagery with moments of uneasy hilarity. Rockford Art Museum (RAM), 711 N. Main St., (815) 9682787, rockfordartmuseum.org.

Beatles & Sing-along Night Feb. 13, 7-8:30 p.m. Tribute Trio, a tight-harmony family band, performs timeless songs.

Katie’s Cup, Rockford. Ticket info: charlotteswebofrockford.org.

Love, Sex and the IRS Feb. 14-Mar. 1, Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 2 & 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. To save money, two out of work musicians rooming together in NYC file taxes as though they are married. When the IRS announces an audit, the situation gets complicated. Pec Playhouse, 314 Main St., Pecatonica, Ill, (815) 239-1210, pecplayhouse.org.

Galena Winter Carnival Feb. 14-17, see website. Watch the hot air balloon glow and ice carving, play snow games, sled, cross-country ski and more. Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa, 444 Eagle Ridge Dr., Galena, Ill., (800) 892-2269, eagleridge.com.

Sky Circus on Ice Feb. 14-16, see website for details. Three days of family fun with a blizzard run, snow slide, expert ice and snow sculptors, hands-on snow carving and kite-making workshops, gigantic kite displays over Delavan Lake; evening entertainment. Lake Lawn Resort, Delavan, Wis., (262) 728-7950, lakelawnresort.com.

RSO: Scottish Fantasy Feb. 15, 7:30 p.m. Music by Larsen, “Deep Summer Music,” Bruch, “Scottish Fantasy” and Brahms, “Symphony No.2 in D major.”

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

Learn about our region's beautiful wild bobcats on Feb. 16. Photo by David C. Olson.

Jodi Beach Feb. 16, 3 p.m. Elegant ballads, beautiful love songs, warm Latin rhythms and stomping swings by singer Beach take the listener through a lifetime of memories in a matter of minutes. MPAC, Starr Center, 415 N. Church St., Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.

Java, Chocolate & Champagne Stroll Feb. 15-16, noon-4 p.m. Enjoy special treats as you stroll along Main Street; lots of events and specials at shops. Main Street, Geneva, Ill., visitgalena.org.

Regional Juried Exhibition Through Feb. 15, Tue.-Fri. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. noon-5 p.m. Works by artists from Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin, showcasing the contemporary art of established and emerging artists.

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

Lip Sync Battle Feb. 15, 6-9 p.m. Lip sync performances, silent auction, raffles and contests to benefit Project 16:49 and Rock County’s unaccompanied homeless youth. Cash bar. Pontiac Convention Center, 2809 N. Pontiac Dr., Janesville, (608) 314-5501, janesvillecvb.com.

Bobcat: Illinois Native Cat Feb. 16, 2 p.m. Hear a talk by Jennifer Kuroda, founder of the Illinois Bobcat Foundation, on every facet of the elusive cat, including history, biology, predator perception and management. Once hunted nearly to extinction in the Midwest, the cats are now making a comeback. Jarrett Prairie Center, Byron, Ill., (815) 234-8535, byronforestpreserve.com. ❚

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WDL

Creative Cuisine at Baci’s Kitchen

By Peggy Werner

S

tep inside Baci’s Kitchen, 2990 N. Perryville Road, (baci means “kiss” in Italian) and you’ll experience a clean, open, contemporary setting with lots of natural lighting. You’ll likely meet owner Nikko Castrogiovanni, who credits his father, Nick, and years of experience in Las Vegas kitchens, with helping him to hone his skills.

“I just fell in love with working in the kitchen and being creative,” Castrogiovanni says. He created every item on his menu, for breakfast, lunch, dinner and small bites and drinks any time of day.

Weekly specials include items like a 14 oz. New York strip steak topped with garlic herb butter and served with mashed potatoes and gravy or mostaccioli for $19; Halibut, grilled and topped with mango salsa and served with broccoli, zucchini and carrots for $27; and

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

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

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

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

Fresco at the Gardens.  Casual/American Café. 318 Spring Creek Road, (815) 316-2256. BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$ Gene’s Irish Pub  Casual/Irish Pub. American and Irish fare.

Over 21 only. 1025 5th Ave., Rockford, (815) 977-4365. LD T-Th 11am-10:30pm, F-Sat to midnight. $$.

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.

Smart Living Weekly

daily and weekly discounts, specials and coupons are available at baciskitchen. com.

Each Friday and Saturday night from 6 to 9 p.m., popular local artists like the Vince Chiarelli Band, Trinadora, That Gurl and Pistol Pete perform.

Baci’s Kitchen opens every day at 8 a.m. It closes on Sundays at 8 p.m.; on Mon.-Wed. at 9 p.m.; and Thurs.-Sat. at 10 p.m. Walk-in diners are welcome, but reservations are encouraged. Call (815) 329-6922. ❚

In the Spotlight

Top Picks for Local Restaurants

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Chicken Florentine, grilled chicken topped with mushroom sauce and spinach, served on a bed of fettuccine with garlic olive oil, for $14.95.

Popular regular entrees include Baci Salmon, a pan-seared filet topped with sautéed radishes, carrots, tomatoes and orange slices, served with coconut rice; Baci’s Chicken Parmesan with spaghetti, stuffed with ricotta and spinach, and topped with marinara and fresh mozzarella; and Lemon Chicken, freshly baked and served with garlic & olive oil fettucine.

Protein bowls are made with chicken, salmon, steak, tuna, shrimp or vegetables and include rice, quinoa, vegetables and homemade salad dressing or sauce.

The large breakfast menu includes weekly specials like a calzone stuffed with hollandaise sauce, hash browns, ham, bacon, sausage, Cheddar cheese and eggs.

Rock Valley College students and staff receive a 20 percent discount and

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. $-$$.

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

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

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

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

Prairie Street Brewhouse  Upscale-Casual/American.

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

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

2420 Charles St., Rockford, (815) 397-3534. BkLD M-Sat., Sun. brkfst. only. M-Th 7a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri. & Sat. 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

Sun. 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Weekend brunch. Large menu, Swedish pancakes specialty. $$ ❚

Feb. 12

To advertise call 815-316-2300

D

Dos Reales

os Reales, 5855 E. State St., Rockford, has been serving up authentic Mexican fare and signature margaritas, along with some American fare, since 1998.

Its recently updated menu features a burrito cheesesteak and chimichangas, along with newer items such as torta Mexicana, a Mexican style of sandwich filled with grilled chicken or steak; sopes Mexicanos, a traditional Mexican dish served with rice and beans; and molletes, a traditional Mexican meal with toasted bread covered in refried beans and grilled steak. Dos Reales offers glutenfree options, and dishes are mild unless a guest requests spicy.

“We prepare everything from scratch and purchase our products from local sources,” says Jose Gonzalez, Dos Reales’s manager.

Dos Reales is open Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and Fri.-Sat. until 10:30 p.m. ❚

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To advertise call 815-316-2300

Y M

Money-Saving Tip: Buy and Resell Tools

By Peggy Werner f you’re looking for the right tool for the job and want to save money or make some money while reducing clutter, your new best friend might be Retool of Rockford, 3622 E. State St. The business buys, sells, and trades new and used tools.

Owner Dave Stenberg is observing his 20th year in business and says Rockford is an ideal community for what he offers.

“There are enough people who want to sell things and enough people who realize that secondhand tools are just as good as new ones, to keep me in business,” he says.

He offers used tools at about half the price of the original retail cost and everything in the store has a 30-day warranty for parts and labor. He’ll also buy back what he sells for 60 percent of the cost.

Many do-it-yourselfers and contrac-

I

tors purchase expensive power tools and hand tools for a specific job only to use them once or twice and then put them away forever. By selling what you don’t need, to ReTool, you not only make space for what you do need, you also make money and help someone else get what they need at a discount, he says.

The inventory includes hand tools, power tools and automotive tools as well as saws, bench grinders, drill presses, micrometers, calipers, levels, gauges, ladders, nail guns and much more.

Within the past five years, ReTool has begun stocking new items, mainly cordless products.

“Repairing a tool or machine is not cheap and is not always the best answer.

Sometimes it costs more to fix something than to get another one,” he says.

Stenberg has always worked in retail and enjoys helping people.

“Part of the fun is helping people to find what they’re looking for because they know what they want to do, but don’t always know how to do it,” he says.

ReTool is open from 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Mon., Tues. and Thurs.; 9:30 a.m.5 p.m. Wed. and Fri.; and from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call Dave at (815) 398-4900. ❚

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Feb. 12

To advertise call 815-316-2300

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