Smart Living Weekly - December 9, 2015

is n th o ly as al oc Se

L op y Sh ida l Ho

n iving g Smart L ivi ivin ng Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Freeport 95¢ • Dec. 9, 2015

™

Right in Our Region

Celebrate the Season with Holiday Pops

By Sarah Soenke, deputy editor

O

ne of the area’s biggest holiday traditions returns with the Rockford Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops concerts on Dec. 19 and 20. The Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center’s Mendelssohn Chorale and its chamber group, Il

Coro Piccolo, will contribute to the 23rd annual show. Presented on the stage of the Coronado Performing Arts Center, Holiday Pops creates music magic with a wide range of popular seasonal pieces, both old and new.

Continued on p. 22

Live a Better Quality of Life Reading & Using Smart Living Weekly Proudly Serving the Needs of 326,000 Neighbors - For Your Home, Health & Fun! Holiday Recipes! • A Visit to Northern Illinois Food Bank Dining at Arturo’s • Treating Varicose Veins • Attracting Birds with Seed

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Experience Downtown Rockford

In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 20 RSO Holiday Pops Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Different Seeds Attract Different Birds Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Who was Elijah?

Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Gingerbread Cookie Butter & Cinnamon-Pine Jar Your Outing ........................................................32 A Visit to Northern Illinois Food Bank Your Health ............................................. .......... 25 New Treatment for Cataracts Your Fun ................................................... ......... 27

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 29 Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 29 Your Money .............................................. ......... 33 Financial Generosity

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Janine Pumilia Deputy Editor Sarah Soenke Assistant Editor Lindsey Gapen Senior Staff Writer/Promotions Coordinator Paul Anthony Arco Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Ryan Contributing Writers Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes General Manager/Northwest Business Magazine Dave Marino Account Executives Brian Hughes Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Website www.NWQSmartLiving.com Published by Hughes Media Corp.

222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 Smart Living Weekly.

Copyright 2015 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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Smart Living Weekly

Dec. 9

Choosing Light M

y family just returned from a beach vacation in southern Mexico, where Christmas decor seemed strangely out of place against a backdrop of Mayan ruins.

Icicle lights dripped from open-air lobbies as Bing Crosby crooned “White Christmas.”

“Really?” said daughter Rebecca, as she slathered on the Sun Bum. “I get why they play ‘Ave Maria’ and ‘Feliz Navidad,’ but I just can’t take ‘White Christmas’ here.”

The soundtrack was chosen for tourists, of course, but the whole scene was a reminder that the only common denominator of Christmas worldwide is Jesus Christ’s birth.

Our sleigh rides and shopping specials are no more “Christmasy” than Mexican Posada street processions.

Whether you come from a place where Santa, Befana the witch (Italy) or Père Noël (France) makes a visit, and whether you attend the Mass of the Rooster (Spain) on Christmas or head to the Sauna (Estonia) or serve Lekker Pudding (South Africa), the reason for the Christmas season is to recognize the child who came from God and promised “a peace that passes all understanding” in this life, and an eternal home in the next. Christmas is about choosing light over darkness and being the hands and feet of Christ.

Christmas strengthens our better impulses, whether that means feeding the hungry (see our story about Northern Illinois Food Bank, p. 32), writing checks to charities we respect, visiting people in need of cheer, or choosing peace over violence. Christmas reminds us to care for broken people in a broken world.

Evil has always been with us, but it seems a little closer to our doorstep this year.

How good it is to recall the words of the Christmas child: “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble.

But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33).

Merry Christmas! ❚ Janine Pumilia Executive Editor Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

Dec. 9

7

Smart Living

Holiday Shopping Guide

10

Smart Living Weekly

Dec. 9

Y H  G

Different Seeds Attract Different Birds

By Peggy Werner ird feeding is not just a fun hobby for homeowners; it’s also an essential part of the equation for helping birds have the energy and nutrients they need to stay warm in winter.

“Birds can lose up to 15 percent of their entire body weight on an especially cold night. They need energy from food to fly, to reproduce in the summer and to stay warm in the winter,” says Phil Rezin, owner of Wild Birds Unlimited, 631 S. Perryville Road in Rockford.

Normally, birds use feeders to supplement other food sources available in nature, but when the temperatures dip, they rely on backyard feeders more than ever to get those much-needed calories for survival, he says.

The sale of fresh, high-quality bird seed accounts for about half the business at Wild Birds Unlimited in Rockford, Rezin says.

B

“Our seed comes in weekly, moves quickly, and is always stored inside. Seed, like produce, comes from plants and the longer it sits around, the less nutritional value it has,” he says.

High-quality birdseed provides the most calories because it’s pure seed.

“There’s no waste in any of our seed,” says Rezin. “Waste is a common problem with most birdseed because it’s 70 to 80 percent filler, consisting of cereal and other grains that birds won’t eat.”

Various blends attract various birds.

Sunflower and safflower-based seed blends attract cardinals, chickadees, nuthatches and finches. Woodpeckers, blue jays, titmice and nuthatches all like nuts with their seed.

The best seller, though, is the “no mess blend,” which is pure seed with no hulls. Hulls make a seed blend about 40 percent inedible because the birds don’t eat them and when they are discarded

they can sprout and cause unwanted vegetation in a yard.

“A lot of people like to see birds cracking hulls, for their own entertainment, but the birds don’t care about hulls,” says Rezin. “If birds are what you want to see, tell us what kinds of birds you like and we can help you get them in your yard.” ❚

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Dec. 9

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I  W

Who Was Elijah?

M

any of the kings who led Israel oppressed their own people; many of the people fell into idol worship. During these times, God often raised up prophets to speak for Him. Elijah is the prophet most often mentioned in the New Testament. In the 17th chapter of the gospel of Matthew, when Jesus is transfigured on a mountain, it is Moses and Elijah who converse with him there.

Elijah was at times bold and colorful, at other times fearful and terribly depressed by peoples’ rejection of the one true God. At one point he gives up and lays down, ready to die, until an angel tells him, “Get up and eat.” He does as he is told.

More than most people ever have or will, Elijah witnessed the fearsome power of God firsthand. Yet it is Elijah who realized, after thunderous winds, an earthquake and great fire, that God’s voice was not in any of those, but in a still, small whisper.

When he recognizes God’s voice, he stops feeling sorry for himself and finds the will to keep going.

In the ups and downs of his human existence, Elijah did what God asked of him and God took care of him in return. In fact, at the end of his life, Elijah didn’t die a regular mortal death but was swept into Heaven by a chariot in a whirlwind.

Scriptures about Elijah are filled with direct conversations with God and supernatural events; Elijah correctly predicts a drought and later ends the drought with a dramatic miracle in a showdown with the prophets of Baal; ravens carry food to Elijah each day when he hides from evil King Ahab (husband to Jezebel); Elijah raises a child from the dead and causes a poor widow’s oil pot to never empty.

Through it all, Elijah remembers that it’s God’s power, not his own, that makes the wondrous things of the earth happen.

Before he is swept off to Heaven, Elijah seeks out his faithful disciple, Elisha, and places his own mantle on the young man’s shoulders. Like Elijah, Elisha lives a life worthy of his calling and takes up the important work of his teacher. ❚ This is the 12th in a series about major figures of the Bible. Sign up for your free digital version of Smart Living Weekly at NWQSmartLiving.com.

12

Smart Living Weekly

Dec. 9

We’ re here , fo r yo u.

Area’s best in patient safety FHN Memorial Hospital was recently recognized for a second year for our patient safety record by the world’s largest independent, non-profit product-

We at FHN are committed to a safe patient experience, and are proud that

and service-testing organization. In their second U.S. study, in which safety scores were calculated for nearly 2,000 hospitals, only 6% nationwide – and only four hospitals in Illinois – earned a score

FHN Memorial Hospital, which scored higher than any other hospital close to the communities it serves.*

as high or higher as

It is our goal to offer our communities the best possible healthcare services we can provide, and recognition such as this confirms our commitment to your confidence in our processes and capabilities.

Whether you need surgery, cancer treatment or other specialty care close to home, a hand in welcoming a new baby into your life, help in handling a chronic health condition, or emergency care,

choose the best in the area for patient safety: FHN.

For more information, visit www.fhn.org or call 1-877-6000-FHN (1-877-600-0346).

* Within a 50-mile radius of Freeport

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Dec. 9

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14

Smart Living Weekly

Dec. 9

Y K

Homemade Gifts This Holiday Season I

nstead of fighting crowds at the store, head to the kitchen and whip up Pinterest-worthy treats and crafts. Whether you’re gifting a gracious host or just want a few extra presents on hand for unexpected holiday guests, flavorful and aromatic kitchen creations are a delicious way to show you care this holiday season.

“Christmas cookies are always a popular gift, but they’re not the only homemade option for the cookie lovers on your list,” says Chef Kevan Vetter of the McCormick Kitchens. “A small jar of spreadable Gingerbread Cookie Butter brings the taste of a classic holiday treat to unexpected places like toast and pancakes.”

Gingerbread Cookie Butter Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 2 minutes Servings: 24 (1 TB. each)

• 8 ounces gingerbread cookies, about 8 (3.5inch long) cookies

• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar • 1/2 cup coconut oil • 1/4 cup water • 2 tsp. McCormick Pure Vanilla Extract • 1/2 tsp. McCormick Ground Cinnamon • 1/4 tsp. McCormick Ground Ginger

Directions: Pulse cookies in food processor until resembling fine crumbs. Add sugar; pulse until just blended. Heat oil and water in small saucepan on low heat until coconut oil is melted. Slowly add oil mixture to processor while pulsing. Add vanilla and spices; pulse until just blended.

Cinnamon & Pine Fragrance Jar Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Makes: 1 jar

• 2-3 pine branches (4 inches long) • 2 McCormick Gourmet Cinnamon Sticks • 1 tsp. McCormick Gourmet Whole Jamaican Allspice water

Directions: Place pine, cinnamon and allspice inside 8-ounce jar. Pour water to fill jar, leaving 1/2-inch headspace; seal. To add a lovely fragrance around the house, pour all contents of jar into small saucepan.

Simmer on medium heat 10-15 minutes or until fragrant, adding additional water as needed. ❚ Source: Family Features

Fine Oils, Vinegars, & Now Spices!

theoliveoilexperience.com

6332 E. Riverside Blvd. Loves Park, IL

815-904-6120

Mon–Fri 11-7p • Sat 11-6p • Sun 12-4p 328 E. State St. Rockford, IL

779-774-4495

$

5 OFF $20 Purchase

Mon–Fri 11-6p • Sat 11-5p Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

May not be combined with other offers. Exp. 12/23/15

Dec. 9

15

Gustafson’s West Serving Our Hometown Since 1928

Super Holiday Sale!

36 Mon ths

0% Inter e s t 808 W. Riverside Boulevard • 815-636-8608 SOFA: WAS :$3129 NOW: $2899. LEATHER, TRADITIONAL STYLE. AVAILABLE IN 2 COLORS.

*

SOFA: WAS $639 NOW $589. OVER-SIZED PLUSH SOFA. AVAILABLE IN GREY, CHOCOLATE AND BEIGE.

“OCEAN ISLE” TABLE W/ 4 CHAIRS. QUEEN BED, DRESSER & MIRROR: WAS-$2009 NOW-$1679 WAS: $1129 NOW $899

QUEEN BED, DRESSER, MIRROR & NIGHTSTAND. WAS: $2999 NOW $2599

Here is a Peek Inside the Front Doors of Gustafson’s East!

16

Shop Both of Our Locations Today!

Smart Living Weekly

Dec. 9

!

Gustafson’s East

W NE

Now Open!

6651 East State Street • 815-636-8608

BROWN LEATHER SOFA WITH NAILHEAD TRIM: WAS-$2500 NOW-$2175

TABLE WITH 6 BLACK WINDSOR STYLE CHAIRS: WAS-$3729 NOW-$3259

ALBANY: OVER-SIZED SOFA. WAS: $859 NOW:$789

LANE: RECLINING SOFA WAS:$1179 NOW:$1089 AVAILABLE IN A VARIETY OF FABRICS.

Come in Today and Shop Hundreds of Beautiful Bedroom, Dining Room,

Living Room, Mattress Sets All with Fabulous, Holiday Sale Prices!

36 Months 0% Interest* at Both Locations Tell them you saw it in ...

Smart Living Weekly

*To Qualified Buyers on financed balance over $2,000 with 10% Down. Tax & delivery not financeable.

Dec. 9

17

Mon & Fri 10am-8pm | Tues-Thur 10am-7pm | Sat 10am-6pm | Sun 12-5pm

s h t n o 36 M

t s e r e t n I 0%

*

Prices Good through Dec. 16, 2015

HOME Albany Chocolate Sofa and Loveseat

899

Reclining Sofa

Available in 3 colors!

699each

Granite Reclining Sofa

1049

NOW

Leather Sofa

1979

NOW

199 FREE 298 Buy a Queen for

THERE’S NO CREDIT CHECK YOU PAY AS YOU GO PAY IN PERSON,

BY PHONE OR ONLINE

FREE BOXSPRING SALE

Photos for illustration only. Not responsible for typographical errors. We reserve the right not to honor any incorrect pricing.

Buy a King for

receive a

FREE boxspring receive

boxsprings

GUSTAFSON FURNITURE • 808 W. Riverside, Rockford, IL • 815.636.8608 • www.gustafsonfurniture.com 18

Smart Living Weekly Dec. 9 OPEN NOW in an additional location: 6651 East State Street, Rockford, IL 61108

Open 24 hours on the web

for the

Find us on Facebook

HOLIDAYS SALE

...making it cozy

Prices Good through Dec. 16, 2015

169

Coaster Dining Set & 4 Chairs

POWER BEDS

TWINS STARTING AT

899

ULTRA COMFORT

LIFT CHAIR

588

429

299

Table and 2 Chairs

Harmony Queen Bed

GUSTAFSON'S FURNITURE & MATTRESS I

N

S

T

O

R

E

UPHOLSTERY:

UPHOLSTERY SETS:

BEST: PWR LIFT 1AW21-20029 WAS 1049 NOW 575 ULTRA COMFORT PWR LIFT C HAIR/RECL PL340 WAS 989 NOW 599

ENGLAND STORAGE OTTOMAN 4530 WAS 659 NOW 299 ENGLAND OTTOMAN 5637 WAS 489 NOW 199 NATUZZI SOFA B61900920 WAS 2765 NOW 1799 HGTV 2544-62, 2570-55 SOFA AND OTTOMAN WAS 2439 NOW 1499 ENGLAND LOVESEAT 6206AL WAS 1919 NOW 750 HGTV 2542-52 STUDIO SOFA WAS 1369 NOW 550 HGTV 2560-02 GEMSTONE ACCENT CHAIR WAS 1169 NOW 675 KINCAID CHAIR 167-84 WAS 959 NOW 350 BASSETT CHAIR 3977-12FC WAS 799 NOW 399 BASSETT CHAIR 3999-12FC WAS 899 NOW 499 KINCAID CHAIR 625-84 WAS 1629 NOW 899 ENGLAND CHAISE 1L00-80 WAS 939 NOW 499

UPHOLSTERY SETS:

BROYHILL 4231 SECTIONAL WAS 2029 NOW 1699 ASHLEY CHAIR 6400221 WAS 479 NOW 250 ENGLAND SECTIONAL 1W00 WAS 2180 NOW 1299 BEST WINGBACK CHAIR 0660DC-1 WAS 599 NOW 375 ASHLEY SECTIONAL 7070 WAS 1400 NOW 725 ENGLAND SOFA/LOVESEAT 6205AL,6206AL WAS 3200 NOW 2400 ASHLEY RECLINING SECTIONAL 1080 WAS 3250 NOW 2400 ASHLEY OTTOMAN 8670208 WAS 329 NOW 199 Photos for illustration only. Not responsiENGLAND OTTOMAN 2407R ble for typographical errors. We reserve the WAS 459 NOW 199 right not to honor any incorrect pricing.

C

L

A

S

S

I

F

BASSETT CHAIR 1019-02-LINEN WAS 929 NOW 525

WOOD PRODUCTS:

BASSETT COCKTAIL TABLE 6767-0613 WAS 699 NOW 299 ASHLEY T600-13 ENDTABLES(PAIR) WAS 750 NOW 315 BASSETT DRESSER/MIRROR 2767-0242/0237 WAS 1869 NOW 750 ASHLEY T720 COCKTAIL TABLE W/1 END TABLE NOW 399 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T165-13 WAS 299 NOW 199 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T231-13 WAS 299 NOW 199 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T269-13 WAS 299 NOW 199 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T140-13 WAS 319 NOW 199 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T142-13 WAS 305 NOW 199 BROYHILL SOFA TABLE 4812-009 WAS 549 NOW 299

I

E

D

ENGLAND 3PK TABLES H279221/201 WAS 1369 NOW 799 ASHLEY CHEST B429-46 WAS 679 NOW 399 ASHLEY END TABLE T845-3 WAS 429 NOW 175 ASHLEY YOUTH GIRLS NIGHTSTAND WAS 199 NOW 75 ASHLEY NIGHTSTAND B697-92 WAS 499 NOW 195 ASHLEY NIGHTSTAND B246-92 WAS 589 NOW 175 BROYHILL END TABLE 4986-0000 WAS 409 NOW 95 BROYHILL ENDTABLE 4310-002 WAS 369 NOW 125 ASHLEY SOFA TABLE T697-4 WAS 649 NOW 350 ASHLEY DRESSER B562-31 WAS 569 NOW 299 PRIMO FUTON FRAME 2814 WAS 620 NOW 250 FASHION TWIN PLATFORM FRAME B51093 WAS 319 NOW 195 BROYHILL QUEEN STORAGE BED 4444-450 WAS 1500 NOW 599

GUSTAFSON FURNITURE • 808 W. Riverside, Rockford, IL • 815.636.8608 • www.gustafsonfurniture.com Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly Dec. 9 OPEN NOW in an additional location: 6651 East State Street, Rockford, IL 61108

19

Open 24 hours on the web

We're So Thankful to Be Your

Home for the

Find us on Facebook

s h t * n o M 36 est

r e t n I 0%

Prices valid thru

Holiday

SALE

Prices valid through 12/2/15

Only at Gustafson’s East!

Wednesday December 9, 2015

Mon & Fri 10am-8pm | Tues-Thur 10am-7pm | Sat 10am-6pm | Sun 12-5pm

Mon & Fri 10am-8pm | Tues-Thur 10am-7pm | Sat 10am-6pm | Sun 12-5pm

IFD BOOKCASES

40"

399

55"

449

Albany Sectional

Also available in Chocolate and Beige

70"

Now

499

1099

IFD Console

999

Coaster Dining Table with 4 chairs

TWO TONE RECLINING SECTIONAL

Homestretch Reclining Sofa WAS:$2919 NOW: $2599 and Loveseat

Now

169

2099

CLEARANCE PRICED!

Black Leather: Was $3649 Now $3389

You’ve Got to See Our Beautiful New Line of Flexsteel Furniture, Perfect forYour Home.

Albany Chocolate Sofa and Loveseat

Coaster table and 4 banana leaf chairs

899

Now

1589

“GRAND TORINO” POWER RECLINING SECTIONAL W/ CHAISE: WAS $3379 NOW $2979

129 Sofa 249 Ashley Last One! 1499 and Loveseat receive a Buy a Queen for

Ashley Sofa and Loveseat

Coaster White Bunk Bed.

Limited quantity in stock.

Available to order in Black, Red or Blue

699

Ashley Merlot Headboard

199 199 FREE 298 FREE 298 Buy a Queen for

THERE’S NO CREDIT CHECK YOU PAY THERE’S NO AS YOU GO CREDIT CHECK Italian Leather in a Stress Free PAYYOU IN PERSON, PAY Reclining Motion.

BYYOU PHONE AS GO OR INONLINE PERSON, PAY Prices starting at

BY PHONE Photos for illustration only. Not responsible for typographical errors. We reserve the right not to honor any incorrect pricing.

OR ONLINE

FREE BOXSPRING SALE FREE $2099 BOXSPRING SALE

Buy a King for Buy a King for

receive a FREE boxspring FREE boxspring receive receive

boxsprings boxsprings

Photos for illustration only.

Not responsible for We reserve Rockford, the right not to honor incorrect pricing.

GUSTAFSON FURNITURE • typographical 808 W. errors.

Riverside, ILany • 815.636.8608

• www.gustafsonfurniture.com $2599 for Sofa and Loveseat.

Several colors to choose from.

GUSTAFSON 808 W. Riverside, Rockford, IL••815-636-8608 815.636.8608 www.gustafsonfurniture.com GUSTAFSON FURNITURE •additional 6651 East State Street6651 www. gustafsonfurniture.com OPENINGFURNITURE SOON in•an location: East State ••Street, Rockford, IL 61108

Hometown Merchant for 87 Years!

36 Months Home Thank You, Open 24 hours on the web

for the

Rockford, for Voting Us Your Number 1 Furniture Store

Holiday

SALE

Prices valid through 12/2/15

Find us on Facebook

0% Interes t

*

Mon & Fri 10am-8pm | Tues-Thur 10am-7pm Sat 10am-6pm | Sun 12-5pm Prices valid thru

Open 24 hours on the web

Wednesday December 9, 2015 Find us on Facebook

Ashley 5 Piece Dining Set

Ashley Reclining Sofa or Loveseat.

YOU CHOOSE - 499 EACH

699each

Available in 3 colors.

Artisan "Antique"

POWER POWER BEDS TWINS BEDS

STARTING AT TWINS STARTING AT

899 899

ULTRA ULTRA COMFORT COMFORT LIFT CHAIR

anyGUSTAFSON incorrect pricing.

Now

1349

GUSTAFSON'S GUSTAFSON'S FURNITURE & MATTRESS FURNITURE & MATTRESS

I N I N UPHOLSTERY: BEST: PWR LIFT 1AW21-20029 UPHOLSTERY: WAS 1049 NOW 575

BEST: PWR LIFT 1AW21-20029 ULTRA COMFORT PWR LIFT C WAS 1049 NOW HAIR/RECL PL340575 LIFT CHAIR ULTRA WASCOMFORT 989 NOWPWR 599LIFT C HAIR/RECL PL340 UPHOLSTERY WAS 989 NOWSETS: 599 BROYHILL 4231 SECTIONAL UPHOLSTERY SETS: WAS 2029 NOW 1699 BROYHILL 4231 6400221 SECTIONAL ASHLEY CHAIR WAS NOW250 1699 WAS 2029 479 NOW ASHLEYSECTIONAL CHAIR 6400221 ENGLAND 1W00 WAS 479NOW NOW1299 250 WAS 2180 SECTIONAL 1W00 BESTENGLAND WINGBACK CHAIR 0660DC-1 WAS NOW375 1299 WAS 2180 599 NOW BEST WINGBACK CHAIR 0660DC-1 ASHLEY SECTIONAL 7070 WAS 599 NOW NOW 725 375 WAS 1400 ASHLEY SOFA/LOVESEAT SECTIONAL 7070 ENGLAND WAS 1400 NOW 725 6205AL,6206AL ENGLAND WAS 3200SOFA/LOVESEAT NOW 2400 6205AL,6206AL ASHLEY RECLINING SECTIONAL 1080 WAS 3200 NOW2400 2400 WAS 3250 NOW ASHLEY RECLINING SECTIONAL ASHLEY OTTOMAN 8670208 1080 WAS NOW199 2400 WAS 3250 329 NOW Photos for illustration only. Not responsiASHLEY OTTOMAN ENGLAND OTTOMAN8670208 2407R blePhotos for typographical errors. reserve the for illustration only.WeNot WAS 329 NOW 199 WAS 459 NOW 199 right not to honor any incorrecterrors. pricing.

ENGLAND OTTOMAN 2407R responsible for typographical WAS 459 NOW 199 We reserve the right not to honor

588 588

Island w/5 drawers

S T O R E C L A S S I F I E D TABLES H279221/201 S UPHOLSTERY T O RSETS: E CBASSETT L A S I F ENGLAND I E3PKD CHAIR S 1019-02-LINEN WAS 1369 NOW 799 WAS 929 NOW 525 ENGLAND STORAGE OTTOMAN 4530 ENGLAND 3PK TABLES H279221/201 BASSETT CHAIR 1019-02-LINEN UPHOLSTERY SETS: ASHLEY CHEST B429-46 WOOD PRODUCTS: WAS 659 NOW 299 WAS679 1369NOW NOW399 799 WAS 929 NOW 525 WAS ENGLAND STORAGE OTTOMAN BASSETT COCKTAIL TABLE ENGLAND OTTOMAN 5637 4530 ASHLEY CHEST WOOD PRODUCTS: ASHLEY END TABLEB429-46 T845-3 WAS489 659NOW NOW199 299 6767-0613 WAS WAS429 679NOW NOW175 399 WAS BASSETT COCKTAIL TABLE ENGLAND OTTOMAN 5637 WAS 699 NOW 299 NATUZZI SOFA B61900920 ASHLEY TABLE T845-3 6767-0613 ASHLEY YOUTHEND GIRLS NIGHTSTAND WAS 489NOW NOW1799 199 WAS 2765 ASHLEY T600-13 ENDTABLES(PAIR) WAS 429 NOW 175 WAS 699 NOW 299 WAS 199 NOW 75 NATUZZI SOFA B61900920 WAS 750 NOW 315 HGTV 2544-62, 2570-55 SOFA ASHLEY YOUTH GIRLS NIGHTSTAND ASHLEY NIGHTSTAND B697-92 WAS 2765 NOW 1799 ASHLEY T600-13 ENDTABLES(PAIR) BASSETT DRESSER/MIRROR WAS499 199NOW NOW195 75 AND OTTOMAN WAS WAS 750 NOW 315 HGTV 2570-55 2767-0242/0237 WAS2544-62, 2439 NOW 1499SOFA ASHLEYNIGHTSTAND NIGHTSTANDB246-92 B697-92 ASHLEY BASSETT DRESSER/MIRROR AND OTTOMAN WAS 1869 NOW 750 WAS589 499NOW NOW175 195 ENGLAND LOVESEAT 6206AL WAS 2767-0242/0237 WAS 2439 NOW 1499 ASHLEY T720 COCKTAIL TABLE WAS 1919 NOW 750 ASHLEYEND NIGHTSTAND B246-92 WAS NOW 750 BROYHILL TABLE 4986-0000 ENGLAND LOVESEAT W/11869 END TABLE WAS409 589NOW NOW95 175 HGTV 2542-52 STUDIO6206AL SOFA WAS ASHLEY T720 COCKTAIL TABLE WAS 1919 NOW 750 NOW 399 WAS 1369 NOW 550 BROYHILL ENDTABLE END TABLE4310-002 4986-0000 TABLE BROYHILL HGTV 2560-02 2542-52 GEMSTONE STUDIO SOFA ASHLEY W/1 3PK END TABLES T165-13 WAS369 409NOW NOW125 95 HGTV NOWNOW 399199 WAS WAS 1369 NOW 550 WAS 299 ACCENT CHAIR BROYHILL ENDTABLE 4310-002 ASHLEY3PK 3PKTABLES TABLEST231-13 T165-13 ASHLEY SOFA TABLE T697-4 HGTV GEMSTONE ASHLEY WAS2560-02 1169 NOW 675 WAS649 369NOW NOW350 125 WAS299 299NOW NOW199 199 WAS ACCENT WAS KINCAID CHAIRCHAIR 167-84 ASHLEYDRESSER SOFA TABLE T697-4 ASHLEY3PK 3PKTABLES TABLEST269-13 T231-13 ASHLEY B562-31 WAS959 1169NOW NOW350 675 ASHLEY WAS WAS 649 NOW 350 WAS299 299NOW NOW199 199 WAS 569 NOW 299 KINCAID CHAIR 167-84 WAS BASSETT CHAIR 3977-12FC ASHLEY DRESSER B562-31 ASHLEY3PK 3PKTABLES TABLEST140-13 T269-13 PRIMO FUTON FRAME 2814 WAS799 959NOW NOW399 350 ASHLEY WAS WAS620 569NOW NOW250 299 WAS319 299NOW NOW199 199 WAS BASSETTCHAIR CHAIR3999-12FC 3977-12FC WAS BASSETT PRIMO FUTON FRAME FRAME 2814 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T140-13 FASHION TWIN PLATFORM WAS 799 NOW 399 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T142-13 WAS 899 NOW 499 WASB51093 620 NOW 250 WAS 319 NOW 199 BASSETT CHAIR 3999-12FC WAS 305 NOW 199 KINCAID CHAIR 625-84 FASHION WASTWIN 319PLATFORM NOW 195 FRAME ASHLEYSOFA 3PK TABLES T142-13 WAS1629 899NOW NOW899 499 BROYHILL TABLE 4812-009 B51093 WAS BROYHILL QUEEN STORAGE BED WAS549 305NOW NOW299 199 KINCAID CHAIR 625-84 WAS WAS 319 NOW 195 ENGLAND CHAISE 1L00-80 4444-450 BROYHILL SOFA TABLE 4812-009 WAS 1629 NOW 899 BROYHILL QUEEN STORAGE WAS 939 NOW 499 WAS 1500 NOW 599 BED WAS 549 NOW 299 ENGLAND CHAISE 1L00-80 4444-450 WAS 939 NOW 499 WAS 1500 NOW 599

FURNITURE • 808 W. Riverside, Rockford, IL • 815.636.8608 • www.gustafsonfurniture.com Smart Living Weekly 9 21 GUSTAFSON 808additional W. Riverside,location: Rockford,6651 IL • 815.636.8608 • www.gustafsonfurniture.com OPENINGFURNITURE SOON in•an East State Street, Rockford,Dec. IL 61108

R  O R

Holiday Pops Continued from cover

The two concerts, sponsored by Alpine Bank, will be held on Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday afternoon at 3 p.m.

“There’s something for everyone, from the sing-alongs and movie montage to the more traditional, sacred songs,” says Michele McAffee, marketing director for the RSO. “It’s a really good mix of holiday music, and it’s our most popular family event.”

Holiday Pops is the second event in the RSO’s Pops series, a string of popular contemporary performances. These concerts promise some of the season’s best melodies.

The 12-member Mendelssohn Il Coro Piccolo takes the stage with RSO during the first half of the show, for classic Christmastime tunes such as “Sleigh Ride,” “The Winter’s Night” and

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“Listen, Children, Hear the Angels Sing.”

A new addition to this year’s Holiday Pops show is a medley of notable songs from holiday films, titled “Christmas at the Movies,” arranged by Bob Krogstad. Audience members will be invited to join in with a sing-along version of “The Twelve Days of Christmas” and, later, a Christmas carol medley.

The 60 members of the Mendelssohn Chorale, under the direction of Marti Bein, join the orchestra during the second half of the concert to perform spiritually focused pieces, including “Bell Carols,” “Lullaby Carols” and “Seasonal Sounds.”

The longstanding partnership between the RSO and Mendelssohn creates a holiday concert experience like no other. The annual Holiday Pops has grown to become one of the

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R  O R largest holiday music performances in Rockford, with around 140 performers onstage, says McAffee.

Previous Holiday Pops concerts have seen decorative snowfall, holiday lights and visits from Santa Claus. This year’s show promises a few surprises for new and returning patrons alike, while many of the show’s best traditions live on.

The family-friendly show is meant to appeal to music admirers of any age.

“The RSO is very pleased to offer student tickets at $7 for ages 25 and under with a student ID,” says McAffee. “So, taking your children to Holiday Pops is less expensive than going to the movies.”

The RSO first started this holiday tradition in 1992 under the direction of RSO music director Steven Larsen, who is celebrating his 25th season conducting the orchestra. “After more than 80 years of bringing vibrant music experiences to our community, we are still full of surprises,” says Larsen. “This season is

no exception.” Tickets can be purchased in advance with discounts for groups of 10 or more.

“We often hear from our fans that Christmas isn’t Christmas without the Holiday Pops concert with the orchestra,”

says McAffee. “People are usually dressed in colorful holiday attire and some people wear their Santa hats. It’s a really enjoyable experience.”

To order tickets, call (815) 965-0049, or visit rockfordsymphony.com. ❚

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New Type of Cataract Eye Surgery Now Available Here B y To n i R o c h a

C

ataract procedures are one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the United States, with more than 3 million performed each year.

In the past decade, advances have transformed the way surgeons are able to provide safe, permanent removal of these cloudy growths that can cause blurry vision, glare and rings of light.

Rockford Ambulatory Surgery Center (RASC) has recently taken a major step forward in offering the latest equipment innovation, the LenSx® Laser, which offers specialists across our region the means to perform outpatient cataract surgery with vastly improved precision and predictability.

“We began exploring several different femtosecond laser systems after one of our surgeons requested that we consider this new technology,” says RASC CEO and medical director Dr. Steve Gunderson.

The goal of this laser operation is to break the cloudy lens into easily removable pieces, remove those pieces with phacoemulsification and insert an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) in place of the natural lens. Traditionally, surgeons accomplished this by making tiny incisions in the eye using a surgical knife.

Today, patients can choose traditional, manual surgery or bladeless procedures assisted by advanced laser technology.

The LenSx® Laser offers image guidance for predictability and enhanced precision.

While eyes all share the same basic anatomy, each patient’s eyes are totally unique when it comes to size, depth, curvature and other key features. The LenSx® Laser allows surgeons to plan and perform a procedure that’s completely customized.

For more than a decade, femtosecond lasers have helped surgeons perform LASIK with unparalleled precision and accuracy. Now the LenSx® Laser brings advanced accuracy and reproducibility to cataract surgeries performed

at RASC. The technology behind the LenSx® Laser captures high-resolution images that yield precise measurements and data, helping surgeons plan and perform cataract procedures to exacting specifications. Many patients experience improved vision after two weeks; they approach optimal vision between two and four months after their procedures.

“RASC is the first facility in Rockford to acquire the LenSx laser, and we expect others to follow,” Gunderson says.

There’s a price for advanced technology. “This new technology does not come without a price,” says Gunderson.

“The laser costs about $400,000 and is not covered by insurance or Medicare.

Patients must pay a $650 fee if they wish to have laser-assisted cataract surgery.”

Gunderson says the Center for Medicare Services has placed restrictions on the use of the laser for Medicare patients.

“Medicare Part B permits patients to pay for the LenSx laser when used specifically to implant premium refractive intraocular lenses (presbyopia-correcting or astigmatic-correcting), or when a refractive keratotomy is performed with a conventional lens,” Gunderson says.

“The new technology provides enhanced imaging and integrated computations that are used to enhance the cataract procedure.” ❚

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Y F

Kantorei: The Singing Boys of Rockford Dec. 9 & 11, 5 p.m. This candlelight Christmas dinner features carols, cocktails and dinner prepared by Chef Robert Philips of Fresco.

Vegetarian options available upon request. $50/$45 members. Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 2299390, andersongardens.com.

Shop on State; Wine at Waterside Dec. 10, 5-9 p.m. Enjoy shopping specials, live music and food vendors downtown Rockford.

The evening's signature event, Wine at Waterside, features local and regional wines for tasting, as well as specialty chocolates. $30. The Waterside Building, 124 N. Water St., Rockford, (815) 9638111, gorockford.com.

Cork + Canvas (Ages 21+) Dec. 10, 6-8 p.m. Enjoy this “sip and paint” class at Rockford Art Museum. Everything is provided for a creative evening, including step-by-step instructions, a canvas, paint, paintbrushes and wine. $40. Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 9682787, rockfordartmuseum.org.

J.R. Sullivan’s “Hometown Holiday” Dec. 11-13, Fri. & Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 4 p.m.

The 20th annual variety show features holidayinspired storytelling, comedy, singing and acting. $25. J.R. Sullivan Theater, Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-0595, facebook.com/pages/JR-Sullivans-HometownHoliday.

Swing Dance Party Dec. 11, 8-10:30 p.m. Join Ostende Dance Club in your best attire for swing dancing and other ballroom styles. $25/couple. Giovanni’s Restaurant & Conference Center, 610 Bell School Road, Rockford, (815) 509-2308, gorockford.com.

Pet Photos with Santa Dec. 13, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Bring the whole family, including your pets, to have pictures taken with Santa. $15 donation to PAWS Humane Society.

Village Green Greenhouse & Garden Center, 2640 N. Main St., Rockford, pawshs.org/events.

Rockford Wind Ensemble Holiday Concert Dec. 13, 1:30 p.m. Rockford Wind Ensemble presents a delightful program of holiday music. $10 adults/$5 seniors and students. J.R. Sullivan Theater, Nordlof Center, Rockford, (815) 2278550, rockfordwindensemble.org.

The Harlem Globetrotters take the court at BMO Harris Bank Center, in Rockford, on Dec. 27

RSYO Winter Concert Dec. 13, 3 p.m. Enjoy the sounds of one of Illinois’ leading youth orchestras. Honoegah Performing Arts Center, 307 Salem St., Rockton, Ill., (815) 965-0049, rockfordsymphony.com.

Rockford Certified Open Mic & Slam Dec. 15, 6 p.m. Enjoy this interactive event in which the audience hears and judges some of the best poetry in Rockford. The night begins with open mic time and some improv poetry exercises before the poetry slam. Free.

Nordlof Center, Rockford, (815) 965-7606, rockfordpubliclibrary.org.

12 Bars of Christmas Pub Crawl Dec. 19, 2-10 p.m. Embrace holiday revelry as you wind your way through 12 downtown Rockford bars and restaurants. $25. Kick-off at Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 963-8111, gorockford.com/ merryandbright.

Holiday Pops Dec. 19-20, Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 3 p.m. Celebrate the holiday season with Rockford’s biggest holiday tradition. The Mendelssohn Chorale joins the RSO to bring you the best music of the season, from popular to traditional and sentimental to serious. Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 965-0049, rockfordsymphony.com.

Harlem Globetrotters Dec. 27, noon. Celebrating 90 years of providing smiles, sportsmanship and service to millions of people worldwide, the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters deliver an unrivaled family show.

BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford, (815) 968-5222, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com. ❚

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WDL

Restaurant of the Week

Not-to-Miss Mexican Food at Arturo's

By Brian Hughes

F

amily-owned and -operated since 2009, Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant, 107 W. Main St., in Poplar Grove, Ill., has become quite the local favorite. With more than 20 years of restaurant experience, owner Arturo Torres has created an authentic Mexican establishment that's truly unique to the area.

“It’s our goal to provide Poplar Grove and surrounding communities with homemade Mexican cuisine,” Torres says.

Torres' award-winning tacos may be the most popular dish, but other fan favorites include the daily lunch specials, fajitas, 10 Finger Burritos and Enchilada Dinners. Loyalists also enjoy the 10-ounce rib-eye steak, smothered with sauteed onions and mushrooms, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese.

With an expanding selection of domestic and imported beers, the full-service bar at Arturo’s is popular by itself, but by far the most-ordered drink is the house margarita.

“We sell a lot of margaritas because they pair so well with our authentic Mexican cuisine,” says Torres.

The newly remodeled and expanded dining room creates a warm and inviting atmosphere where it’s easy to find good food

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Arturo's Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Authentic Fresh Mexican. 107 W. Main St., Poplar Grove, (815) 765-1144.

LD M 11am-8pm; Tue-Th 11am-9pm; Fri 11am-10pm; Sun noon-8pm. $.

Bravo Pizza E Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Rd., South Beloit, (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $.

Cannova’s Italian Cuisine E Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., Freeport, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. $-$$.

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

Extensive wine list; daily specials. 6500 E. Riverside, Loves Park, (815) 654-9900. LD M-F 11am-9pm, Sat 5-9pm. $$.

Costa’s Ristorante E Upscale-Casual. 133 Blackhawk Dr., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. Open daily 4pm. $-$$.

Dos Reales E Casual/Mexican. Authentic Mexican fare, lunch menu. 5855 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 227-4979. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 10:30pm. $-$$.

Ebeneezer Brown Eatery & Pub E Casual. American classics.

4866 Bluestem Road, Roscoe; (815) 270-1213. LD Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-12 a.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. $-$$.

Giordano’s Famous Stuffed Pizza E Casual/Italian. Pick-up/ delivery. 333 Executive Pkwy., Rockford, Ill. (815) 398-5700.

LD Sun-Th 9am-11p.m; F-Sat to midnight. $.

JMK Nippon Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar E Upscale-

and quality service.

“We believe people keep coming back because we offer a great experience every time a customer walks through the door,” says Torres.

“We strive to make our guests as comfortable as they would be in their own homes.”

Recent updates at Owner Arturo Torres (center), with his family, at Arturo's in Poplar Grove, Ill. Arturo’s have also led to the introduction of new staff members, menu items and fresh accents around the dining room. Torres says he expects to open a rooftop beer garden by the end of 2017.

The restaurant accommodates private parties of up to 50.

Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant is open Mon.-Thu. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and Sun. 12 p.m.-8 p.m. ❚

In the Spotlight Casual. Food cooked tableside. 2551 N. Perryville, Rockford, (815) 877-0505. L T-F 11:30am-2pm, Sat 2:30pm; D M-Th 5-9:30pm, F-Sat 10:30pm, Sun 4:30-9:30pm. $$.

Main Street Bistro E Casual/Fine dining. Th&Sat. 109 S. Galena, Freeport, (815) 232-2322. M-Sat 2pm-midnight. $$.

Maciano’s Pizza & Pastaria E Casual. Beer/wine. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, (815) 963-7869. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $$.

Maxson Riverside Restaurant E Casual/American. 1469 IL Route 2, Oregon, Ill., (800) 468-4222. LD M-Sat 11am-8pm, Br Sun 10am-3pm. $$.

Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint E Fine Dining. Ironworks Hotel, 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, Wis. (608) 313-0700. D Sun.Th 4:30-9pm, Fri-Sat. 10pm. $$.

Napoli Pizzeria III & Top Dollar Slots E Takeout/delivery.

6560 N. Alpine, Loves Park, (815) 877-9888. LD daily 11am.

Prairie Street Brewhouse E Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$.

Tavern on Clark E Casual/American. 755 Clark Ave., Rockford, (815) 708-7088. LD daily 10am. $-$$.

This Is It Eatery E Casual/American. 16 N. Chicago Ave., Freeport, (815) 616-5449. LD T-Th 11am-8pm, F-Sat 10pm. $.

Vito’s Ristorante E Casual/Authentic Italian. 1620 N. Bell School Rd., Rockford, (815) 312-5080. LD T-Sat 11am. $$. ❚

Merrill & Houston's Steak Joint

L

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

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

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

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

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

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T  I

Vacuum Up Savings

C

arpet is a big-ticket item, and there are things you can do to lengthen its life, says Paul McCann, owner of Stanley Steemer, 9958 N. Alpine Road, Machesney Park.

1. Vacuum more often. Carpet warranties advise once daily, which few of us do. The more people, pets and activity in a home, the more often it should be done.

2. Vacuum more strategically. One pass won’t do it. Make a cross pattern going both ways so fibers stand up and more dirt comes out.

3. Invest in a good vacuum cleaner and change the filter often. Check a consumer website for recommendations.

4. Supplement the vacuuming with regular professional cleaning to extend the life of your carpet. Stanley Steemer uses highpressur water heated to about 200 degrees that is suctioned out with far stronger suction than household vacuums can provide.

“Dirt has an abrasive impact on carpet fibers. When it damages the fibers and they lay down, that’s where you see traffic patterns,” says McCann. ❚

Mortgage Advisor 15 Yr Fixed

Lenders Byron Bank

Rate

byronbank.com

APR*

(815) 234-2561 Mo. Payment*

30 Yr Fixed

30 Yr Jumbo FHA/VA & ARM

3.12%

3.93%

3.75%

$992.32

$674.58

$671.49

3.51%

4.48%

4.785%

Please Call

Smart Living Weekly Magazine’s Mortgage Advisor is intended to provide you with a guide to securing the mortgage you seek. Quoted rates are supplied by the institutions (as of Dec. 7, 2015) and can change daily. Interest rates and monthly payment installments are based on a $150,000 loan with a 5% down payment and 0 points; FHA with a 3.5% down payment and 0 points. APR is based on a good faith estimate of prepaid finance charges. Your APR will vary according to the specifics of your transactions. Contact the bank, credit union or S&L directly for their most current rates. The mortgage rate you obtain will be based upon your credit rating, loan amount and standing with that particular financial institution. * APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Mo. Payment = The monthly principal and interest payment.

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How to Help the Hungry this Holiday Season P

roviding more than 35,000 families with a holiday meal is no small undertaking, but Northern Illinois Food Bank is up to the task, thanks to the generosity of its donors and volunteers.

Last month, volunteers packed boxes with all the fixings for a traditional holiday meal to feed a family of eight at the Food Bank’s centers in Geneva, Park City and Rockford. The Holiday Meal Boxes were distributed to families in need during Thanksgiving and a similar effort will be made during the Christmas holidays, through the Food Bank’s network of food pantries and programs.

Each Holiday Meal Box comes with a turkey, fresh potatoes, stuffing mix, gravy, vegetables, fruit, coffee and dessert. The Food Bank anticipates providing more than 35,000 Holiday Meal Boxes this year throughout its 13-county service area.

“We know the holidays can be a particularly stressful time for families as they struggle to afford groceries, keep

up with bills and create special holiday memories for their children,” says Julie Yurko, Northern Illinois Food Bank president and CEO. “Through our Holiday Meal Box program, we hope to help alleviate some of that stress and make sure our neighbors in need are able to gather around the dinner table with family and friends to enjoy a festive meal.”

Northern Illinois Food Bank’s Holiday Meal Box Program is supported by the Hillshire Brands Foundation, Del Monte Foods, Inc., The Jel Sert Company and Jewel-Osco. The Food Bank also relies on the generosity of individual donors to help cover expenses. A $30 donation provides a Holiday Meal Box for a family of eight.

To donate, or to learn more about Northern Illinois Food Bank, visit SolveHungerToday.org.

Northern Illinois Food Bank leads the northern Illinois community in solving hunger by providing nutritious meals to those in need through innovative pro-

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A group of ComEd employees volunteered to pack holiday meal boxes at Northern Illinois Food Bank this season.

grams and partnerships. Since 1983, food manufacturers, local grocers, corporations, foundations, and individuals have come together to donate food and funds, and evaluate and repack food for distribution to 800 community food pantries and feeding programs serving more than 71,000 hungry neighbors each week across 13 counties. Northern Illinois Food Bank has received a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator for 12 consecutive years. Learn more at SolveHungerToday. org. ❚

Y M

Don’t Let Financial Fear Stop Your Generosity W hat do you do to give back? Do you volunteer your time, your skills or your knowledge? Do you pride yourself on being a generous person?

Generosity has always been seen as a positive virtue, and new research from Thrivent Financial shows Americans are placing more emphasis on being generous than ever before. Sixty-one percent of Americans said they would rather be called generous than financially successful, according to the 2015 Money Mindset Report, and a third said the purpose of the money they make is to give back.

That’s positive news, but the same research shows that many Americans aren’t preparing financially for the future. They’re lacking in long-term financial strategies, advice and tools, and this is generally true regardless of how much money a person makes.

“The data from our 2015 Money Mindset Report shows that a majority of

people want to be generous, but may not be making other decisions that help them down the path of being wise with money,” says Brad Hewitt, CEO of Thrivent Financial.

Many Americans are unsure of their financial stability. Only 27 percent of the 1,001 American adults surveyed said they felt very confident they were making the right decisions with their money. Meanwhile, 16 percent said they struggle to keep up with day-to-day expenses, and 32 percent said they were just making ends meet.

The survey also showed many Americans struggle with their finances in other ways. Thirty-two percent don’t have an emergency fund and 25 percent don’t have a long-term financial strategy. More than three quarters do not work with a financial advisor, and more than half don’t have life insurance, a retirement fund or disability income insurance.

The spirt to give continues. Yet despite the concerns about their own financial stability, Americans – particularly millennials – are still committed to being generous with their money. Fifty-nine percent think donating time makes a bigger impact than donating money. Sixtyfour percent – and 70 percent of millennials – regularly volunteer for a nonprofit.

Giving oneself the stability to give back. The better Americans take care of themselves and improve their own financial stability, the more they will be able to reach out to help those in need. ❚

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Source: Brandpoint

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