Smart Living Weekly August 15, 2018

iving Sm mart a r t L ivi Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit

95¢ • August 15, 2018

™

Right in Our Region

What’s New at Local Golf Courses?

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Teach a Child to Read Organizing Your Home Where to Find Craft Beers on Tap The Jimmys to Play at Woodsong

FREE WIN!

2 Tickets for One Round of Golf 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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For Shopping Dining in the Stateline Area...

Freeport, Beloit& Host Outdoor Festivals

N

! e r e h To Get You T

kettle corn sold by Golden Kiwanis; ow in its 10th year, Art in the Park burgers, fries, nachos, hot dogs and will be Sunday, Sept. 3 at beautiful snow cones sold by Kristi and Sons Krape Park, 1799 S. Park Blvd., Freeport.

Kitchen; and teriyaki chicken, sesame There will be fine art displays, performchicken, funnel cakes, crab rangoon, ing arts, demonstrations of various art eggrolls, garlic shrimp, cheesecake and media and children’s hands-on activicinnamon donuts from Happy Stix. ties. Artists’ media will include painting, The following weekend, head to sculpture, photography, jewelry, ceramic Beloit, Wis., for Festival on the Rock, Raku pottery, printmaking, drawing and a weekend filled with live music and glasswork. Admission is free. other fun, on Sept. 8-10 at Preservation Freeport Park District and Freeport festival; knockerball; a corrugated cardPark, 3444 Dr., Beloit, Wis.transportation Art Museum co-sponsor this event.

Your Preferred Choice forRiverside safe, affordable SOUTH BELOIT (call board boat race at noon on Saturday Admission, parking and all concerts Live music will be performed by in the greater South Beloit, Rockton and Roscoe area.

Jackie Barber ahead of event at (608) are free.

Greg Herriges at 11:30 a.m.; Grass Attack ROCKTON 365-2576 to pick up your cardboard); a Musical acts on Friday night include at 1 p.m.; Kevin Earlywine at 2:30 p.m.; Saturday night fireworks display; bags Junkmale at 6 p.m. and Zac Matthews and Mr. Ed at 4 p.m. tournaments on Friday ROSCOE and Saturday; a Band at 9 p.m. On Phone: Saturday,815-624-7788 Switchtrack Krape Park offers an authentic workRide Scheduling: 877-561-3330 Sunday Kubb Tournament; and a coed Alley performs at 3 p.m.; Dirt Road ing carousel, fenced-in duck farm, waterROCKTON info@smtd.biz • Web: grass volleyball tournament on Saturday.

RebelzE-Mail: takes the stage at 5 p.m.; Soul www.smtd.biz 2 fall, children’s play areas, canoes and TOWNSHIP Visit Beloit is the major sponsor of Soul is at 7 p.m.; and Done Deal appears paddle boats, a band shell and more.

ROSCOE this festival, which is open 4 p.m. to midat 9 p.m. On Sunday, New Image plays at Many delicious foods will be offered, TOWNSHIP night on Friday; 9 a.m. to midnight on noon and Outlaws and Angels will wind such as Greek pasties and baklava sunSaturday; and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. things up at 3 p.m. daes sold by Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Here Getsandwiches, You There” Learnthemore, Other fun includes a carnival, food Church;“We’re steak and porkTochop Scan code including cardboard boat visit our website rules, at festivalontherock.com. ❚ vendors and beer tent throughout the to race brats and hot dogs sold by Vietnow;

ere H e ’r e W

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 16 What’s New in Local Golf?

Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Getting Organized Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Our Creed Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Kid-Friendly Meals Your Outing .......................................................19 The Jimmys to Play at Klehm Woodsong Your Community .................................... .......... 21 Teach a Child to Read Your Health ............................................. .......... 23 Alternatives to Pain Killers Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 Olympic Tavern Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 26 Your Money .............................................. ......... 29 How to Receive Financial Aid for Schooling

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen Assistant Managing Editor Jermaine Pigee Editor Emeritus Janine Pumilia Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Behling Contributing Writer Peggy Werner, Paula Kalivoda Furniss General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes Advertising Sales Representatives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones, Nita Lasky, Kendra Green Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes 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 2018 by Hughes Media Corp., 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

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Makin’ it Happen

O

ur next issue of Northwest Quarterly Magazine will hit the streets soon. I enjoyed learning about the major growth of our local farmers markets for a feature that will appear in that issue. One thing is sure: We like hanging out together at these markets. We like the fresh food, the socializing and the fun extras like live music. And, we like supporting the fledgling businesses our neighbors are launching at these markets.

This is good. The more local businesses we have, the stronger our local identity becomes.

In the 1920s, Rockford had something like eight large department stores, 330-plus grocery stores, 40 drug stores, 20 hardware stores and 60 clothing stores – all locally owned in a city with a population of fewer than 100,000 people.

Later in the century, when national chain stores and eateries swept in, they all but destroyed our local business landscape. Even the largest locally owned retail giants fell one by one. For the first time, retail dollars made a beeline to out-of-state corporate headquarters rather than re-circulating here at home.

Local politicians even gave tax incentives to big-box stores, further tipping the scales against Mom and Pop. Today, a new generation has decided that doing business with impersonal megacorporations who care nothing for Rockford is not all that much fun. Neither is ceding our local identity to generic strip malls. Neither is eating tasteless food processed thousands of miles from here.

Local shops and restaurants are making a comeback and a local foods movement is growing. I love it! And this is why Smart Living Magazine exists. We’re one of very few locally owned media companies. We champion businesses owned by your friends and neighbors and help them to get your attention so they can earn your loyalty.

We all play a role in making good things happen when we support locally owned businesses.

Have a great week! ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor

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Y H  G

An Organized Home Decreases Your Stress

By Janine Pumilia, managing editor

W

hen Joe Weller began installing closet systems more than 30 years ago, options were pretty limited.

“When I started in this business in 1985, most everything was shelf and pole construction and closet design wasn’t talked about much. That has changed,” says the owner of Shelving & Bath Unlimited, 4337 S. Perryville Road, Cherry Valley, Ill. Today, almost 80 percent of Weller’s customers opt for custom laminate closet systems that look like finished wood cabinets.

Along with more than 50 melamine colors and textures, there are options for granite surfaces, glass shelves, motionactivated LED lighting – even LED lights inside the drawers if you like – built-in mirrors, jewelry trays, removable laundry bags, a fold-out ironing board, adjustable cubbies made for shoes, boots and handbags and much more.

“Many people are using fewer or no dressers in their bedrooms and are choosing instead to maximize their closet space,” Weller explains.

While some people go so far as to convert spare bedrooms into luxurious walk-in closets, others double or triple the efficiency of their reach-in closets by having them professionally designed. Either way, it’s the design expertise offered by Shelving Unlimited that makes it possible to meet organization goals.

“It’s all about good design,” says Weller. “You can have the largest Taj Mahal-type closet in the world, but if it’s not functioning well it can become one more mess to deal with. Good organization saves you time and prevents frustration.”

Weller also designs storage solutions for the pantry, garage, laundry room, home office and basement.

“Good organizational design plays a big role in making a home more functional and enjoyable,” he says.

Along with adjustable-shelf laminate storage, Shelving Unlimited offers wireshelving systems by Rubbermaid, the No. 1 brand in the industry. ❚

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Our Creed U

nlike most countries, where identity is based upon shared ancestry, our identity as citizens is based upon shared ideals.

We hold a set of beliefs in common – our creed – and it stands independent from any one person.

Our U.S. creed is the Constitution. It, with the rule of law it enables, provides parameters to individuals and government alike. As citizens, we’re expected to know our basic rights and obligations. Ignorance isn’t a legitimate defense for not paying taxes or driving without a license.

Christians are defined by creed, too.

Blood meant everything to Old Testament Israel, but Christ replaced that model with something greater when he invited people of all bloodlines into his family.

Instead of a Constitution, we Christians accept the Bible as our spiritual authority. It tells us what Jesus said and did on earth, how God expects us to behave and what privileges we enjoy as His family members. To ignore the Bible is to ignore God. If we rely solely upon people to explain scripture to us, they may mislead us, intentionally or not.

Jesus was very clear in his expectation that we know scripture and make it our life’s compass, just as he did by example. He quoted it to the devil (Matthew 4) and to his followers alike. And he reprimaded corrupt religious leaders of his day for failing to know and follow it.

Jesus replied: “Your mistake is that you don’t know the Scriptures, and you don’t know the power of God.” (Matthew 22:29) Many of us are quick to wear the outward badge of “Christian” but slow to conform our thoughts to God’s. We need the words of Jesus (the four Gospels and Acts) and the wisdom of early Christians (Acts through Jude) to understand who we are in Christ from God’s point of view, the only one that counts.

Christians who don’t read the Bible are like Cub fans who’ve never watched a baseball game. What’s the point? …if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding – indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth comes knowledge and understanding.

– Janine Pumilia Proverbs 2:1-6 ❚ 12

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Kid-Friendly, Easy, Healthful Meals W

ho says kids won’t eat vegetables?

Check out kid-friendly recipes at produceforkids.com.

Easy One-Dish Chicken & Veggie Bake Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 50 minutes Servings: 4

1 lb. chicken breast, cut in fourths 12 small red potatoes, quartered 12 oz. green beans 1 TB olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced 1 TB herbs de Provence 1/4 tsp. salt 1/8 tsp. pepper

Heat oven to 350 F. Place chicken, potatoes and green beans in rows in 13-by-9-inch baking dish with chicken in middle. Drizzle with olive oil, season with garlic, herbs de Provence, salt & pepper.

Bake 50 minutes, or until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165 F and potatoes are tender.

Sweet Potato & Black Bean Quesadilla Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Servings: 4

1 large sweet potato 1 can low-sodium black beans, drained and rinsed 1/4 cup chopped cilantro 1 TB low-sodium taco seasoning 8 whole-wheat tortillas 1 cup low-fat shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Use fork to prick sweet potato. Microwave 5 minutes on high. Let cool slightly.

Cut potato in half lengthwise and scoop flesh into large bowl. Mash until smooth.

Combine beans, cilantro and seasoning with sweet potato; mix well.

Heat skillet over medium heat. Spread sweet potato mixture evenly on one side of tortilla, sprinkle with cheese and place second tortilla on top. Cook 3-4 minutes, or until cheese is melted. Flip and cook 2-3 minutes more.

Repeat with remaining tortillas and mixture.

Cut each into quarters. ❚

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Trends that are Shaping Local Golf

By Jermaine Pigee, assistant managing editor

T

he game of golf is experiencing many changes as new generations arrive on the greens. Visit the links this year and you may see people using phone apps to help their game, GPS tracking devices and other new equipment.

Here, we ask local professionals about trends they’re seeing.

Trend: New Equipment Design Recent design improvements have allowed golfers to use clubs with larger heads, creating a straighter, more consistent shot.

“The design elements these companies have at their disposal and the dollars they spend to make their products stand out is unbelievable,” says Rich Rosenstiel, golf manager at Ledges Golf Course in Roscoe, Ill. The larger heads make the ball easier to hit and allow it to travel longer distances.

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Advancements in technology have reduced mis-hits in golf, Rosenstiel says.

“In the past, if you hit your driver on the toe, the consequences of doing that were enormous,” Rosenstiel says. “If you hit the driver on the toe 20 years ago, you’d lose 15 yards and today, you may only lose five yards. It’s a credit to the technology that these golf companies are putting into their equipment.”

Trend: Family Entertainment Centers In the 1990s and early 2000s, interest in golf surged, but once the excitement wore off and a recession hit, things slowed down.

“A lot of people are playing less golf, and that’s a national trend,” says Duncan Geddes, director of golf operations for Aldeen Golf Club, in Rockford. “The overdevelopment in the ’90s has caused a supply-and-demand problem because there’s not enough business.”

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This summer, Aldeen’s clubhouse has welcomed a new addition meant to bring a new revenue stream and a broader supply of visitors, not all of whom will come for the game.

The Rockford Bank & Trust Pavilion, Aldeen’s new, $3 million, 9,000-squarefoot banquet facility, can host weddings and social groups of about 250 people and includes a full kitchen and event bar, large stone fireplace, oversized windows and an outdoor pergola.

“We wanted to take advantage of what we have, which is a beautiful view and a beautiful course,” says Geddes.

“People can enjoy themselves in more ways than just playing golf.”

Trend: High-Tech Game-Changers Golf carts at PrairieView Golf Club in Byron are equipped with Visage GPS units that can keep score and tell players their distance from the hole.

R  O R “It’s a small computer screen that mounts on top of the cart, and it has a touch screen,” says Andy Gramer, head golf professional. “We definitely lead other courses in the area with our technology.”

The new GPS units complement other investments, like the electric golf carts that arrived four years ago. Gramer says they provide a smoother, quieter ride.

“We’re trying to keep up our high standards, and it’s an enhancement that we figure will increase our golfers’ enjoyment out here,” he says.

Trend: Raising the Stakes Kyle Kunash, head golf professional at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa’s twin courses in Lake Geneva, is constantly looking for ways to engage the younger generation of golfers.

“Reports show that a majority of the younger demographic would prefer to visit an entertainment-based driving range like Top Golf, over heading to an actual course,” Kunash says. “Our goal is to be able to cater to both the golf

advantage in golf is more practice,” says Camp. “If you have someone spending 70 percent of his practice time chipping and putting, he’ll be the one improving, and that’s where the competitive advantage comes in.”

Ledges Golf Course

traditionalist and the population that is seeking new and exciting, maybe nontraditional, aspects of golf.”

Kunash encourages families staying at the resort to hit the links together.

“Family outings are the main reason younger players start to get involved and continue to stick with it, as they might be more motivated to play with their friends and family,” he says.

Trend: Get Back to the Basics Brian Camp, owner of Beaver Creek Golf Course in Capron, Ill., believes it’s not technology, but golf lessons that will truly enhance your game.

“The only thing that gives you a true

Trend: Faster Rounds Reagan Davis, director of golf at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa, in Galena, sees courses around the country working to speed up the game, catering to younger professionals’ busy schedules.

Courses are emphasizing their ninehole rates, says Davis. Eagle Ridge maintains three 18-hole courses and one nine-hole, par-34 layout.

Some courses are starting to charge by the hole.

“If someone comes in and says they only have time to play four holes, the course could charge them for those holes, and they’d be able to play about an hour of golf,” Davis says. “I’ve played at courses all over the country, and many of the top courses are considering non-traditional ways to look at their rates. ❚

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The Jimmys to Play Klehm Woodsong Aug. 19

By Peggy Werner

T

he popular outdoor Woodsong concert series at Klehm Arboretum, 2715 S. Main St., will conclude on Aug. 19 with a performance by The Jimmys, a powerful 8-members band heavily influenced by Chicago blues and the sounds of New Orleans.

With touring experience throughout the U.S. and Europe, The Jimmys, which formed in Monticello, Wis., have amassed international acclaim. Members have repeatedly garnered Wisconsin’s top honors in Madison Area Music Association Awards, including keyboardist of the year 2015-2018.

People are encouraged to come early to tour the arboretum and bring their own chairs, blankets, food and drink to set up a picnic-style evening, says Jim Wojtowicz, special events planner.

Klehm will be closed to the general public at 3 p.m. that day, but will reopen

at 4 p.m. for concertgoers to enjoy the grounds. Children can play in the Fountain Garden, now back in operation. Wellbehaved leashed dogs are welcome. Prairie Street Brewhouse will be selling wine and beer.

“We’re hoping that people will have a relaxing evening under the open sky and come away with a greater appreciation for the outdoors, and in particular Klehm Arboretum, and will want to return often,” Wojtowicz says.

The Woodsong Concerts are a longtime tradition at Klehm, designed to attract people interested in gardening, music and the great outdoors.

A variety of artists and musical styles are featured at the concerts that are always held the third Sunday of each summer month. A booth will be set up for people to renew or sign up for an arboretum membership.

Admission is $5 for members or $10 for non-members, online or at the entrance. In case of rain, the event will be held in the Garden Pavilion. Learn more and purchase tickets at Klehm.org. ❚

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Volunteer: Help a Struggling Child to Read I

magine what a child feels like when they can’t read like their classmates.

Imagine a child among her peers who watches her classmates taking on chapter books when she is still struggling to sound out three-letter words. While the students next to her correctly spell that week’s vocabulary words, she spends her mental energy trying to look inconspicuous; her priority isn’t to learn but to avoid getting embarrassed. When fourth grade comes, she realizes this issue isn’t going away – it’s getting worse, because at fourth grade students stop learning to read and start reading to learn.

Perhaps you’ve heard that most young students in the Rock River Valley are below their reading level; remember that those children have faces, names, and need our immediate help.

That’s where the I READ Program

comes in. How do we address this widespread problem? One student at a time. At I READ, we recruit volunteers to read for just 30 minutes a week with kindergarteners who are struggling to read and we encourage them to meet with their students all the way through third grade. Members of our community are stepping up, giving their time and energy to help rescue students from the grim outcomes of illiteracy.

The I READ sessions give students a chance for extra reading practice in a one-on-one setting that can address their particular needs and strengths. If a student has a tough time with letter sounds but loves snakes, expect one of our volunteers to be practicing “sss” sounds with her very soon. All of that extra reading practice adds up and gives students the

opportunity to learn to love to read. We make it easy by giving volunteers a brief orientation, supplies, and on-demand support throughout the year. It doesn’t take advanced degrees or training. All the students need is you.

To learn more about I READ or apply, contact Matt Hargrove at matt@ theliteracycouncil.org or call (815) 9637323 ext. 14. ❚

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There are Many Options for Pain Relief

By Peggy Werner

A

t a time when the opioid epidemic is a top news story because of its strangulating hold on society, with more and more people falling victim to addictive prescription or illegal painkillers, people need to know there are better options for treating pain, says Chris Scott of Chris Scott Wellness, 1752 Windsor Road, Suite 202 in Loves Park.

In business for more than 25 years, he opened his own clinic in 2014, specializing in pain management with Medical Massage Therapy and Myofascial Release. He has two physicians and three therapists on staff.

“You can have success treating pain without drugs,” he says.

More than 80 percent of the aches and pains people experience are musculoskeletal in nature, usually involving muscular imbalance and tightness, especially around joints, he says. People who

suffer from chronic pain often have anxiety and depression as a result of their suffering, which can also be addressed and improved with pain management therapy, he says.

One of the easiest ways people can lower their pain and anxiety levels is by using deep breathing exercises.

One example is called “box breathing,” and is done by slowly inhaling air through the nose to get the deepest breath, then holding it a couple seconds, and then exhaling slowly through the mouth, while thinking positive thoughts or visualizing beautiful nature scenes, he says.

“Science teaches us the brain controls the body, but what controls the brain? It’s your breath,” he says.

Scott says he has helped hundreds of

people either get off pain medication or greatly reduce their need for it.

For more information or to make an appointment, call the clinic at (815) 9773747. The office is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and by appointment on Saturdays. ❚

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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

ILLINOIS, USA

Garden, with more than 500 different species of trees, shrubs and vines, all 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

Music on the Mall – Edgebrook Most Fridays 6:30-8:30 p.m. Bring your own chair. 1639 N. Alpine Road, (815) 226-0212, edgebrookshops.com.

Rockford, IL 61101

1.800.521.0849

gorockford.com

Music in the Park Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7 p.m. Rockford Park District, Sinnissippi Park Music Shell and other locations. Check website for full schedule. (815) 987-8800, rockfordparkdistrict.org.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

Rockford City Market Friday nights to Sept. 28, featuring music by Minimal on Aug. 17.

Tuesday Evening in the Gardens Aug. 21 with Matthew Ryan and the Northern Wires. Trapper Schoepp opening.

Gates open at 5 p.m., 5:45 performance.

318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 2299390, andersongardens.org.

Winnebago County Fair Aug. 15-19, at the county fairgrounds in Pecatonica.

AJG: On the Wings of Bats Aug. 16, 7 p.m. Barbara Williams, naturalist, photographer and lecturer, speaks about bats in Japanese art and design, as well as bats found in other countries and northern Illinois. Reg. requested. Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford, (815) 229-9390, andersongardens.org.

RAM Midwestern Biennial Show Now to Sept. 30, daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. RAM, Rockford, (815) 968-2787, rockfordartmuseum.org.

Tunes on the Terrace: Paper Airplane Aug. 15, 6-8 p.m. The acoustic guitar and vocal duo of Noel and Amy Nickel perform songs from the ’60s to today. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, Rockford, (815) 987-8858, rockfordparkdistrict.org/ncg.

'The Realistic Joneses' Aug. 16-Sept. 8, Thu.-Sat. 8 p.m. Meet the Joneses, two suburban couples with identical homes and shared last names. As their relationships begin to intertwine, they must decide between their idyllic fantasies and their imperfect realities. [usual]Suspects, Nordlof Center. rockfordpubliclibrary.org.

The Jimmys will perform at Klehm Woodson on Aug. 19.

Polish Fest Aug. 19, 11:30 a.m.- 8 p.m. The 37th annual event includes a traditional Polish dinner, games, exhibits, music, dancing and more.

On the grounds of St. Stanislaus Parish, 201 Buckbee St., Rockford. Free admission.

Learn more at St-Stanislaus.org.

Klehm Woodsong Concert: The Jimmys Aug. 19, 6 p.m. Grounds open at 4 p.m.

Bring a blanket & picnic, and enjoy the music of this eight-piece band, influenced

by Chicago blues and New Orleans funk.

(815) 965-8146, klehm.org.

Tunes on the Terrace: Kelly Steward Aug. 22, 6-8 p.m. The Rockford singer/ songwriter entertains with haunting indieflavored country meditations. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, Rockford, (815) 987-8858, rockfordparkdistrict.org/ncg.

‘Private Eyes’ Aug. 24-Sept. 9, Fri.-Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m.

A comedy of suspicion in which nothing is ever quite what it seems. Pec Playhouse Theatre, (815) 239-1210, pecplayhouse.org.

Guitarzapalooza Aug. 25, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. The lineup for this year’s Crossroads Blues Festival includes Toronzo Cannon and The Monster Mike Welch/Mike Ledbetter bands. Lyran Park, 4791 South Bend Road, Rockford, (779) 537-4006, crossroadsbluesfestival.com.

Tunes on the Terrace: Kevin Earlywine Aug. 29, 6-8 p.m. Local singer/songwriter Earlywine incorporates familiar classics from the ’50s and ’60s. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, Rockford, (815) 987-8858, rockfordparkdistrict.org/ncg. ❚

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Craft Beers Always on Tap at Olympic Tavern

By Janine Pumilia

B

eers and burgers have been central attractions at Olympic Tavern since it opened in 1945 at 2327 N. Main St. Just as the casual food menu has expanded to include full-course dinners, the full-service bar has expanded to please every customer, too.

“I try to offer things other places don’t serve,” says Zak Rotello, general manager and third-generation co-owner.

“It’s no fun to do the same things everyone else is doing.”

He’s especially proud of the draught beer list, which changes two or three times a week and includes 28 options from lightest to darkest, along with a brief description of the flavor profile and alcohol content, which can range from 2.5 to 18 percent.

“There are seven or eight house favorites that stay constant, but customers always find something new, often influenced by the season we’re in,” he

says. On summer days you’ll find several lighter, fruitier options such as citrusy pale beers, sparkling ciders, kombuchas (fermented tea) and sangria on tap.

Rotello spent time working at a craft brewery in Portland, Ore., and formally studied the brewing process at Chicago’s Siebel Institute of Technology before coming back to the family business owned by his father, Tom, and founded by his late grandfather, Anthony, a U.S. Marine. Tom still works at the business every day and Zak recently became general manager.

“I find unique craft beers by developing relationships with people who follow them,” he says. “Trending right now are New England-style IPAs. They’re softer and hazier, still hoppy but not as bitter.”

Traditionalists are never disappointed, either.

“We sell a lot of Pilsner and we go through 1.5 kegs of Guinness every week,” he says.

Food options include appetizers, sandwiches, salads, soups and full-course dinners, with daily appetizer and meal specials changed up to keep things interesting. Specials include $6 ½-lb. burgers on Mondays; $3 tacos on Tuesdays; $12 fried chicken dinners on Wednesdays; $14 New York strips on Thursdays; a $12 Friday fish fry and a $19 complete prime rib meal on Saturdays.

Hours are Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.midnight and Fri.-Sat. 11-2 a.m. Learn about special events, catering and more at theOlympictavern.com. ❚

In the Spotlight Union Alchemy Dairy

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.

Bravo Pizza  Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, South 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. $$

3473. BkLD M-F 11am, Sat-Sun 8am. Bar open late. $$$.

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. $-$$.

Maciano’s Pizza & Pastaria  Casual. Pizza, Italian favorites, beer & wine. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, (815) 633-7500; and 5801 Columbia Pkwy., Rockford, (815) 2275577. 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. $-$$.

Cucina di Rosa  Italian Bistro/Bakery 1620 Bell School Road, (815) 395-5040. BkLD. M-Sat 7am-9pm. $$

Prairie Street Brewhouse  Upscale-Casual/American.

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

Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant  Casual/Mexican. 5855 E. State St., (815) 227-4979. LD $-$$.

Rock Cut Concessions  Casual American. BkLD. Daily 8 a.m.-7 p.m., open to 9 p.m. on Friday for fish fry.

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

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

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.

Union Dairy  Ice cream treats, grill food. Locally sourced.

126 E. Douglas, Freeport. LD Daily 11am-10 pm. Grill closed Sundays and after 8 pm. $$.

GreenFire  Upscale-Casual/American contemporary. Live entertainment. 6795 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, (815) 316-

Thrive Café  Casual. Healthful food & drinks. 6731 Broadcast Pkwy, Loves Park. BkLD M-F 7am-8pm, Sat 9am-5pm. ❚

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To advertise call 815-316-2300

T

he trendy his Union restaurant Dairy, 26 E. inside Douglas GiovanSt., ni’s, Freeport, 610 N.sells Bell old-fashioned School Road, Rocktreats like ford, offers cones,ansundaes, out-of-the-ordinary banana splits experiand handmade ence in a big-city sodas,atmosphere. malts and root beer floats, “Alchemy made with has51itsflavors own vibe of iceand cream. feel,” says Al It also Castrogiovanni, has a grill that chefserves and founder.

19 kinds “I of always hamburgers, had a vision plusandhot knew dogs, what brats I wantand sandwiches, ed to do. Weand do a Freeport-made lot of out-of-the-box Mrs. Mike’s thinkingpotato and customize chips. It fries everything.” up onion rings, cheese The curds, full service dill pickles, bar features sweet36potato craft waffle beers fries on tap. andEverything more. on the menu is madeThe from burger scratch meat with is ground fresh ingredients. fresh daily at family-owned Pizzas made from Harbach handcrafted Meats, indough, Freeport with names since 1929. like Chicago The cheese Dog and is made Thai Pie, at Springrook are baked inCheese a wood-fi Factory re oven. in Classic nearby fare Davis, includes Ill. Union pastas, Dairy soups, also salads, sells burgers customized and ice cream cakes, cookie ice cream sandwiches, all with a special twist,sandand wiches and hand-packed ice cream quarts. daily specials.

Hours: Daily 11 lunch a.m.-1011p.m. untilp.m.

LaAlchemy serves a.m.-2 bor Day; then a.m.-9 The Mon.-Fri.; andTues.-Sun. dinner 11 4-10 p.m.p.m.

Mon.grill Thurs. closes and at4-11 8 p.m. p.m. daily Fri.-Sat. and isThe closed baron is Sundays. open later. ❚ ❚

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Y M

Plan Ahead to Obtain Financial Aid

By Peggy Werner

F

inancial aid for the college-bound and trade school entrants is available for people of all ages, but you have to plan ahead, start early, and do your homework.

“There’s only so much money available, so the earlier you start, the better, and the more time you’ll have to fill in the gaps by getting aid from a variety of sources,” says Matt Lynch, marketing director for MembersAllliance Credit Union, 2550 S. Alpine Road. “Most importantly, you need to be aware of deadlines and when the application process begins.”

Regardless of what type of aid you get and how much, the first order of business is to complete the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) form online to determine eligibility, he says. This Federal fund application for the 2019-2020 school year will become available midOctober 2018.

Filling out the form gives you access to types of aid you may not have to pay back and loans you won’t have to pay back until after you graduate. In addition, credit unions, banks and other lenders have private student loans, which, like any other loan, are based on the borrower and co-borrower’s ability to repay, and usually have favorable interest rates.

If you know what school you’ll be attending, you can also apply directly to the school for grants, scholarships and work programs. Most of these require a level of

academic excellence, number of completed credit hours, and require maintaining a certain grade point average.

There may be additional options for financial aid depending on your career path, which could also come into play when paying back student loans, whether or not you would be eligible to be placed on an income-based repayment plan.

Web site and mobile apps can provide information on scholarships and grants. It’s important to note that student aid is not limited to high school seniors.

It’s also available to people of any age who want to change careers, get promoted or attend certain trade schools.

“It’s a good idea to apply for as many scholarships and grants as you possibly can, and do so every year,” says Lynch.

“If you don’t try, you’ll never know what money is available. Most people will qualify for some type of loan. It takes time and effort, but it’s well worth it.” ❚

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