Smart Living Weekly - January 10, 2018

Smart L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • Jan 10, 2018

™

Right in Our Region

Hassle-Free Road Trips

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Get Organized!

Choosing a Kitchen Sink The Joy of Helping Others to Read Easy Cold-Weather Cooking Family Fun Days at Discovery Center

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$25 Gift Card from GreenFire Restaurant

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Best of Life Information for Our Region’s Residents & Visitors Proudly Serving the Needs of 326,000 Neighbors - For Your Home, Health & Fun!

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 16 Fun Day Trips Without the Hassle Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Start the New Year with an Organized Home Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Getting Real with the Psalmists Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Refreshing Holiday Salads Your Outing .......................................................19 Family Fun Days at Discovery Center Your Tech ........................................................ ..20 Free Up More Cash in Your Budget Your Community ...............................................21 Literacy Tutors Needed Your Health ............................................. .......... 23 How to Manage Pain Without Drugs Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25 Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 Owly Oops Your Home .................................................. ..... 29 Get Organized; Choosing a New Sink

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, Steven Wysong, Kendra Green Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Website www.SmartLivingWeekly.com Published by Hughes Media Corp.

222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 (815) 316-2300, Fax: (815) 316-2301 lhughes@northwestquarterly.com Smart Living Weekly.

Copyright 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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Mirror, Mirror I

t’s no secret that our region is on the upswing in many significant ways. For one thing, we’re much better at self promotion than we were awhile back, which is important not only to visitors but to residents. Internalizing our strengths helps us to build on them and tackle problems more effectively.

Bill Hughes realized this 13-plus years ago when he founded Northwest Quarterly Magazine (NWQ). He knew that our region was suffering from a serious lack of selfconfidence and that what we believe about ourselves will impact the kind of future we build.

Bill fashioned NWQ into a mirror that reflects what’s good here. No matter how many problems exist in the greater Rockford region, they don’t erase our assets, from our natural landscapes, parks and recreational opportunities to our well-developed arts, history, medical, religious and educational groups. We also have a skilled workforce, a prime U.S. location and a tradition of entrepreneurship that’s being leveraged to create a brighter economic future.

Bill is the most optimistic person I know. He decreed that our magazines would be “relentlessly positive” at a time when it was much more popular to pour salt into the Rockford region’s wounds. We like to think our publications have played a role in the more balanced view most residents hold today about our community. It’s gratifying to recall how many times people have told us, “I never knew about such-and-such until I saw it in your magazine.”

Also working very hard to improve the self-image of our region is the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (RACVB), with whom we partner.

If you take time to review its list of accomplishments on behalf of our region, you’ll be very impressed. The RACVB just released its most recent Go Guide for Residents and Visitors, a handy tool that makes it easier for residents and visitors alike to get out and explore our backyard.

Only good things come from being more aware of our community’s strengths.

Here’s to a great year and a great week! ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor

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Y H  G

Start the New Year with an Organized Home

By Janine Pumilia, Editor Emeritus

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

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I  W

The Psalms Journey

I

n the middle of the Bible is a collection of 150 psalms (sacred sayings) that offer a jarring roller coaster ride of human rantings directed toward God. Several authors wrote them over a period of about 1,000 years, starting in the time of Moses (1500 B.C.). King David penned about half of them. They were passed down through oral tradition before they were written down.

We gravitate toward the psalms that comfort us, the 23rd being a crowd favorite.

Many of them, however, were composed during times of anguish and deep disappointment with God. Feelings of abandonment, anger and frustration are laid bare; They’re both timeless and oddly familiar.

If we’re honest, all of us have experienced anger with God. We see Christians suffer hardship, oppression, sickness, death. We see the evil prosper and ask why.

The psalmists’ emotional poetry helps us to know what a healthy relationship with God looks like, says author Philip Yancey.

By “peering over their shoulders,” we witness both their rantings and the ways they talk themselves down from the ledge. They breathe deeply and then state what they know for sure about God: He is good, wise, powerful, tender. They also acknowledge their own yearning for closeness with Him. The psalmists force themselves to recall the many times God rescued ungrateful Israel from its self-inflicted messes.

With hearts softened by memories of their own weakness, they regain some perspective. God is mighty; they are needy.

The psalmists find wonder in the starry skies and fertile earth. Their ranting turns to flights of joyous praise they can’t contain.

Yancey writes in “The Bible Jesus Read”: “The odd mixture of psalms of cursing, psalms of praise and psalms of confession no longer jars me as it once did.

Instead, I am continually amazed by the spiritual wholeness of the Hebrew poets, who sought to include God in every area of life by bringing to God every emotion experienced in daily activity. One need not ‘dress up’ or ‘put on a face’ to meet God. There are no walled-off areas; God can be trusted with reality.”

To experience Psalms is to fellowship with all who have ever struggled with, and – Janine Pumilia deeply loved, God. ❚ 12

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Y K

Tips to Tackle a Tasty Game Day Menu J

ust like your favorite sports team, hosting a winning party or tailgate takes planning, preparation and teamwork. Remember these entertaining tips that are sure to score with your fans.

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

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

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

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

Find more game day recipes at LitehouseFoods.com.

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

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

Source: Family Features

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R  O R

Enjoy Chicago Fun Without the Hassle

By Peggy Werner or 43 years, Canterbury Books & Tours, 1662 N. Alpine Road, has been taking the hassle out of getting to Chicago and other locations to see top theatrical productions and sporting events.

Business owner Janet McGregor says it’s gratifying to know that Canterbury has positively impacted customers’ lives for generations.

“We take people to places they would normally not want to drive themselves and give them door-to-door service,” she says. “All they have to do is have a good time. I have many people tell me they otherwise wouldn’t be able to go to these places. With us, they can just relax and focus on having a great time.

“We have a good relationship with the box offices, so we get the best choice of tickets. We’re always on the main floor and have premium seating,” she says.

McGregor equips each passenger with a

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map of nearby points of interests and restaurants.

Her commitment to what she does and her friendly personality is another main attraction.

While talking about her business, she stops to answer the phone, telling a customer what seats are available for an upcoming trip. The phone rings again, and this time she assures someone about the drop-off location and says items can be left on the bus.

Cathie Marshall has traveled with Canterbury for eight years, taking at least six trips a year.

“We live so close to Chicago, but most people will hesitate to go if they think of the traffic, tolls, parking and stress of navigating to get somewhere,” says Marshall. “When I first traveled with Canterbury, I just fell in love. It’s the only way I want to go to Chicago. You leave

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your worries behind and when you get on the bus you have fun the whole time and it’s always a good day.”

In 2018, more than 25 trips are scheduled and more trips will be added as opportunities arise. Most trips are made to Chicago or within two hours of Rockford.

Some highlights this year include “On Your Feet” April 4 at Cadillac Palace; Chicago Auto Show on Feb. 13 and 15 at McCormick Place; Chicago Flower and Garden Show March 13 at Navy Pier (or just ride the bus and spend the day at Navy Pier); Chicago’s Fabulous Fountains with author Greg Borzo on May 31; Eataly and Michigan Avenue on April 26; and A Vintage Fashion Show and Luncheon at the Jacob Henry Mansion Estate in Joliet, Ill., on June 21. Pre-Broadway productions include “Pretty Woman” April 14 and “The Cher Show” July 11,

R  O R both at Oriental Theater. The Broadway show “Waitress” is coming to Chicago and a trip is planned July 18.

For one and a half years, Canterbury Tours has been taking people to see the awardwinning musical “Hamilton” in Chicago and will go again March 28, April 11, and April 25. Although all three dates are sold out, people can call to be put on a waiting list.

The show has captivated the country.

“It’s a piece of history set to music and is something all age groups can enjoy because it’s so entertaining and the story moves quickly,” says McGregor. “The music is catchy and you learn a lot about history and there are all kinds of emotions, humor and drama intertwined. This show touches everyone’s life in one way or another.”

“Hamilton” opened in New York in 2015, won a Pulitzer Prize for drama, and was nominated for 16 Tony Awards,

winning 11. The music and lyrics by LinManuel Miranda were inspired by the 2004 biography of Alexander Hamilton

by Ron Chernow.

McGregor wants people to enjoy and learn from the places they go by bus. She also hopes the spirit of adventure encourages them to enjoy events in their own community as well.

“It’s important, whether young or old, that people be curious and stay active to get the most out of life,” she says.

Canterbury Books was founded 43 years ago by the late David Lemke. Several years later he began offering bus trips because he believed book readers would

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enjoy other forms of entertainment, such as trips to Ravinia and Chicago shows.

This changed the future of his business.

Today Canterbury specializes in bus trips but also does special book orders for people.

McGregor was a customer at Canterbury Books for many years before she partnered with Lemke and took over the business shortly before he died seven years ago.

To be informed about plans at Canterbury Tours, go to canterburytoursrockford.com, follow the Facebook page, sign up on the email list or call (815) 3981454. ❚

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Y O

Explore and Learn at Family Fun Days D iscovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, will offer Family Fun Day events through May. These enjoyable educational programs explore subjects through activities, demonstrations, make-and-take projects, performances and more. Here are the next five events. Learn more about all of them at discoverycentermuseum.org.

Monster Monday

Jan. 15, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Celebrate the 200th anniversary of Frankenstein. Explore everyday physics principles, witness the power of static electricity and find out if lightning can really bring something back to life. Dress as your favorite fiend or wear ogre attire if you like.

Star Wars Sunday

Jan. 21, 1-4 p.m. Create your own light saber, practice Jedi skills and evade storm

troopers. Journey through hyperspace to worlds in the planetarium, re-compile a droid, navigate an X-Wing through the asteroid field and assist Princess Leia in battling the evil Empire. Galactic attire encouraged.

Curious George Exhibit Opening

Jan. 27, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore a world of science and engineering. Little ones can build, maneuver and manipulate in this colorful hands-on exhibition that encourages creativity through direct experience and problem-solving opportunities.

George will make a special appearance at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Chocolate Sundae Sunday

Feb. 11; 2-4 p.m. Assemble a sundae and raise your spoon while delighting in the tunes of Auburn’s Jazz Band. Then put your creative side to work and whip up

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a heart-felt card or craft at the Valentine creation station.

Learn to Draw George

Feb. 17; 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Try out drawing techniques presented by professional cartoonist Bruce Quast. Practice cartooning skills and pick up new tips for sketching Curious George and other characters.

George will stop by to see your drawings at 12:15 and 1:15 p.m. No registration required. Included with Curious George admission: $1 members/$11 public. ❚

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Y T

How to Stretch Your Budget a Little Further

By Peggy Werner

I

f you’re thinking it would be nice to have a little extra spending money about now, to pay off those holiday bills, here’s a tip: take a close look at what you’re paying for tech services.

“Most people pay too much,” says Charles Zambrano, owner of EZ Satellite & Wireless, 6239 N. 2nd St., Suite B, in Loves Park. “People are paying too much for phone, internet and television services by using just one company, and they often pay too much for home security protection, too,” he says.

“I love to see people’s faces when they find out how much money they can save.”

Sometimes people are tricked by promotional offers that may jump up dramatically in price after a special offer ends.

“You should know exactly what you’re getting so that it doesn’t cost you a lot of money down the road.”

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Zambrano also finds himself helping residential and business customers to set up cost-effective but reliable security systems. He offers the highly rated Protect America home security service for as little as $19.95 per month.

The family-owned business opened in 2011. It’s a full-service retailer for satellite TV and Internet, and can also help people to acquire cable services.

After working for many years as a satellite dish installer for one of the local providers, Zambrano decided to go out on his own to be more in control of his life and to help others do the same.

EZ Satellite & Wireless is an authorized Dish network retailer and also offers services from any other provider, using dish, cable, Internet or home security, such as Comcast, Frontier, HughesNet, DishNet, DirectTV, Digitenna and Vivint.

Zambrano can help those who drop their TV cable service to set up Sling TV for $20 a month. Sling offers 30 channels

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of live TV including CNN and ESPN. Sometimes a customer simply wants a TV antenna set up in order to receive local TV station programming including Chicago Cubs baseball games through WGN. Zambrano is happy to help them.

And, through DISH, he also offers the Amazon Echo Dot, a hands-free, voicecontrolled device that uses the same farfield voice recognition as Amazon Echo.

For more information, contact EZ Satellite & Wireless at (815) 957-4335 or stop by the office. ❚

Y C

Literacy Council Seeks Reading Tutors

By Peggy Werner

N

ot being able to read and write well can ruin a person’s chance for advancement.

Just being able to “get by” isn’t enough if someone wants to be able to read to their children, help them with their homework, get a job, get a better job, or get a college degree, says Debbie Lindley, program director for The Literacy Council, 982 N. Main St., Rockford.

“As a student learns to read, they feel their world opening up as they are enabled to do things they haven’t been able to do before. At the same time, they’re building a relationship with a tutor, someone who wants to help them make improvements,” she says.

“A good tutor is someone who is patient, is willing to work with people in different situations and with various levels of ability, and enjoys helping another person learn to read. Making a difference

in someone’s life, as they watch that individual reach their goals one step at a time, is so rewarding.”

Currently about 150 learners are paired with a tutor, half of them Englishspeaking and half learning English as a second language, yet another 50 people are waiting to be tutored. Some learners want to earn a GED, but don’t have the ninth grade reading level to qualify for the class.

Volunteers don’t have to have teaching experience, but need to be at least 18 years old, have a GED or a high school diploma and complete training that meets twice weekly for three weeks.

“We look forward to welcoming new tutors year round,” Lindley says.

There are numerous

Tutor Training Workshops for volunteers at Ida Public Library, 320 N. State St. in Belvidere; North Suburban Library District (NSLD), 6340 N. 2nd St., Loves Park; and at The Literacy Council, 982 N. Main St. The workshop schedule and a registration form can be downloaded at theliteracycouncil.org or call (815) 963-7323 for more information. ❚

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Y C

Literacy Council Seeks Reading Tutors

By Peggy Werner

N

ot being able to read and write well can ruin a person’s chance for advancement.

Just being able to “get by” isn’t enough if someone wants to be able to read to their children, help them with their homework, get a job, get a better job, or get a college degree, says Debbie Lindley, program director for The Literacy Council, 982 N. Main St., Rockford.

“As a student learns to read, they feel their world opening up as they are enabled to do things they haven’t been able to do before. At the same time, they’re building a relationship with a tutor, someone who wants to help them make improvements,” she says.

“A good tutor is someone who is patient, is willing to work with people in different situations and with various levels of ability, and enjoys helping another person learn to read. Making a difference

in someone’s life, as they watch that individual reach their goals one step at a time, is so rewarding.”

Currently about 150 learners are paired with a tutor, half of them Englishspeaking and half learning English as a second language, yet another 50 people are waiting to be tutored. Some learners want to earn a GED, but don’t have the ninth grade reading level to qualify for the class.

Volunteers don’t have to have teaching experience, but need to be at least 18 years old, have a GED or a high school diploma and complete training that meets twice weekly for three weeks.

“We look forward to welcoming new tutors year round,” Lindley says.

There are numerous

Tutor Training Workshops for volunteers at Ida Public Library, 320 N. State St. in Belvidere; North Suburban Library District (NSLD), 6340 N. 2nd St., Loves Park; and at The Literacy Council, 982 N. Main St. The workshop schedule and a registration form can be downloaded at theliteracycouncil.org or call (815) 963-7323 for more information. ❚

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Y H

How to Find Pain Relief Without Drugs A

By Peggy Werner

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

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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. ❚

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

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Y F Autumn just might be the best time of year. The sun is a little lower (and prettier), the air is a little crisper (and cleaner) and the leaves cascade down in colorful splendor. This fall, spend some quality time in the fun, nearby, value-packed Rockford Region. See stunning fall colors at

Real. Original.

SM

Anderson Japanese Gardens, the finest in North America. Visit beautifully spacious Rock Cut State Park. Don’t miss Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, with more than 500 different species of trees, shrubs and vines, all

ILLINOIS, USA

glowing in autumn’s glory. Indoors, our concert and theater season will be gaining momentum at Coronado Performing Arts Center, a beautifully restored downtown vaudeville house. Plus, our Riverfront Museum Campus 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

Janesville’s Musical Comedy Troupe Jan. 12, 7:30 p.m. The audience offers suggestions that are turned into an unscripted theatrical improv show filled with humor and music Rockford, IL 61101 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com backed by live musicians. JPAC, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.

Enjoy a tribute to Elvis Presley at the Coronado Performing Arts Center in Rockford on Jan. 12.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

Elvis Tribute at the Coronado Jan. 12, 8 p.m. Covering the early rockabilly years through the Las Vegas concert years, this year’s lineup includes Shawn Klush, Code Ray Slaughter, Dean Z and Ryan Pelson. Special guests The Sweet Inspirations, The Blackwood Quarter and The Fabulous Ambassadors Band.

CPAC, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

RSO: “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” Jan. 13, 7:30 p.m. Start 2018 with an evening of music with special guest Hector Olivera; featuring Dukas’ “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice,” Jongen’s “Symphonie Concertante for Organ and Orchestra” and Saint-Saëns’ “Symphony No. 3.” CPAC, Rockford. Tickets: (815) 9650049, rockfordsymphony.com.

Illinois Snow Sculpting Contest Jan. 17-20, Daily, viewing hours sunrise until 10:30 p.m. Awards ceremony Sat. 1 p.m.

Teams from around the state compete for the right to represent Illinois in the 2018 U.S. National Snow Sculpting Competition.

Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. 2nd St., Rockford, (815) 987-8800, ilsnowsculpting.com.

Winterfest Jan. 19-21. See website for details. This threeday festival features sleigh rides, music, snow golf, ice skating, ice sculpting, euchre and volleyball tournaments, more. Various locations in Beloit, (608) 364-2890, beloitrecreation.com.

MPAC: Duo Sonidos Jan. 19, 7:30 p.m. Violinist William Knuth and classical guitarist Adam Levin combine for a sophisticated and approachable chamber performance. Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center (MPAC), Starr Center, 415 N. Church St., (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.

Broadway: Jay Owenhouse Jan. 20, 8 p.m. Experience an evening of grand illusions that include Bengal tigers, dangerous escapes and inspiring storytelling. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

REO Speedwagon Jan. 24, 7:30 p.m. REO turned 50 this year, Tell them you saw it in ...

with many Top 40 hits and more than 40 million record sales since the time it formed at the U of I and rode in station wagons to play in bars and clubs all over the Midwest. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

Spring Awakening Jan. 20, 7 p.m. Presented by a dance studio from Madison, this daring new rock musical explores the journey from adolescence to adulthood with poignancy and passion, combining morality, sexuality and rock ‘n’ roll. Rated R. Nordlof Center, Rockford, (608) 620-5192, expressyourselfmadison.com.

Orchesis Dance Concert Jan. 25-27, 7:30 p.m. Students and guest artists perform selected original sets. Maddox Theatre, Rockford University, Rockford, (815) 226-4100.

“Barefoot in the Park” Jan. 25-Feb. 3, Thu.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 3 p.m. Straight-laced attorney Paul and his free spirit bride Corie adjust to married life in a tiny Manhattan brownstone walkup. Beloit Civic Theatre, Elizabeth Reinholz Theatre, Beloit Memorial High School, 1225 4th St., Beloit, (608) 362-1595, beloitcivictheatre.org.

Local Comedy on Main Jan. 26 & March 2, 8 p.m. Nationally acclaimed and up-and-coming comedians entertain in the intimate environment of the Gallery. 18 and up. JPAC, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.

“The Odd Couple” Jan. 26-28 & Feb. 2-4, Fri.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 2 p.m., Sun. 2:30 p.m. In Neil Simon’s play Felix Unger and Oscar Madison have very different ideas about housekeeping and lifestyles.

Byron Civic Theater, Byron, Ill., (815) 3123000, bctmagic.com. ❚

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Owly Oop: A Slam Dunk in Downtown Rockford

By Lindsey Gapen, managing editor

I

magine a 12-foot TV, a gigantic pretzel delivered on a baking sheet and a pint of craft beer in your hand. Then go find it at Owly Oop Sports Pub, inside the UW Health Sports Factory, 305 S. Madison St., Rockford. While you’re there, order a meal designed by Reed Sjostrom, Chris Manuel and Dustin Koch, the owners of Prairie Street Brewing Company who also run Owly Oops for Rockford Park District.

“The view of the river is the first thing people notice when they walk in,” says Sjostrom. “You can see Davis Park and the federal courthouse, which you don’t normally see from any other vantage point.”

On weeknights, the building is full of kids who participate in leagues for basketball, volleyball and other sports.

Owly Oop is perched above the courts –

a great place for parents to enjoy themselves while watching their children play below.

“It gets pretty crazy up here on weekends, especially if there’s a tournament,” Sjostrom says. “But it’s not just people who are using the facility – it’s also people who are simply coming to enjoy the space and to be a part of the atmosphere.”

Naturally, Owly Oop is a haven for sports fans. Whether you want to watch NFL football or Premiere League soccer, the pub broadcasts both common and obscure sports, and takes requests.

Having a craft brew from Prairie Street Brewing Company only enhances the experience.

“The beer here is mostly the same as it is there – we try to keep our staples on tap,” Sjostrom says.

Owly Oop serves family-friendly pub fare with items in all calorie brackets. There are salads, hummus, a quinoaand-black-bean burger and other nourishing options. There are also burgers, sandwiches and Prairie Street’s fan-favorite cheese curds. Sauces are made in-house, and ingredients are locally sourced as much as possible.

Hours for Owly Oop Sports Pub are Mon.-Thurs., 4-10:30 p.m.; Fri. 4-11 p.m.; Sat. 10:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; and Sun. 10:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Learn more at uwhealthsportsfactory.com/restaurant. ❚

In the Spotlight

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Authentic Mexican. 107 tic dishes, lunch menu. 5855 E. State St., Rockford, (815) W. Main St., Poplar Grove, Ill., (815) 765-1144. LD M 11am-8pm, 227-4979. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 10:30pm. $-$$.

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

Fresco at the Gardens. E Casual/American Café. Fresh, loBaci’s Kitchen E Fast-Casual American and Italian specialties, cal-sourced ingredients. 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, dine-in, carry-out. 2990 N. Perryville Road, inside A Perryville (815) 316-2256. BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$ Place. (815) 329-6922. Open 7 days/wk. at 8 a.m. BkLD. ComGiordano’s E Casual/Italian. Stuffed pizza, salads, entrees, plete menu at Baciskitchen.com. sandwiches, desserts. 33 Executive Parkway, Rockford, (815) Big Papa’s Barbecue E BBQ Specialties. 5811 Forest Hills Road, 398-5700. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11 pm.

Rockford, (815) 904-6612. LD M-Th 11am-9pm, F-Sat 11 amGreenFire E Upscale-Casual/American contemporary. Sea10pm, Sun 11am-7pm. $. sonal cuisine; local-sourced ingredients; gourmet market; Bravo Pizza E Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, South Be- live entertainment. 6795 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, (815) loit, Ill., (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $. 316-3473. BkLD M-F 11am, Sat-Sun 8am. Bar open late. $$$.

Cannova’s Italian Cuisine E Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., Free- Hearthrock Cafe E Restaurant/cafe. Baked goods, coffee, port, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. $-$$. breakfast, lunch. Inside Benson Stone Co., 1100 11th St., Ciao Bella Ristorante EUpscale-Casual/Italian-American. Dai- Rockford, (815) 227-2000. BkL M-F 7:30am-3pm; Sat. 8amly specials. 6500 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, Ill. (815) 654- 3pm. $-$$.

9900. LD M-F 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 5-10 p.m. $$

Prairie Street Brewhouse E Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Costa’s Ristorante E Upscale-Casual/Italian. 133 Blackhawk Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$.

Dr., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. LD Daily 4pm. $-$$.

Cucina di Rosa E Italian Bistro/Bakery 1620 Bell School Road, Taco Betty’s E Casual/Mexican-American. 212 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 395-5040. BkLD. Homemade gelato, baked Rockford, (815) 977-5650. LD Daily 11am-1am. $$. goods, pasta, frittatas, more. M-Sat 7am-9pm. $$

Thrive Café E Casual/Cafe. Salads, wraps, sandwiches, smoothies, cold-pressed juices. Inside Peak Fitness, 4401 Peak Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Mexican. AuthenDrive, Loves Park, Ill. BkLD M-F 6am-8pm, Sat 8am-2pm. ❚

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C

Cannova’s

annova’s has been serving up authentic Italian dishes and pizza since Anthony and Philippina Cannova started the restaurant in 1921.

Today, their granddaughter, Linda, and her husband, Patrick Beckman, carry on the tradition, at 1101 W. Empire St., Freeport. They use many original recipes for pizza, spaghetti sauce, Italian beef, fresh bread and pizza dough.

House specials include a Sicilian filet, marinated in olive oil and red wine; Italian-style baked cod; and seafood Alfredo. Linda’s made-from-scratch desserts include tiramisu, cheesecake and chocolate spoon cake.

Then there are the award-winning pizzas: the Classic; the New York; the double-crusted Gloria Read, named for a longtime customer; and the Sicilian.

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

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Y H  G

Choosing a New Kitchen Sink A esthetics are often the primary consideration of a kitchen renovation but be sure to think through the materials you’ll use, especially for a workhorse like the kitchen sink. Here are some things to consider.

Materials

Identifying the shape and size of the sink you want can help to narrow your options, but choosing the right material for your situation is also important.

Classic stainless steel is practical and extremely versatile. Its neutral color and sleek looks work with a wide range of kitchen styles. Hot pans won’t hurt it, and it’s less likely than harder materials to damage delicate dishware that may slip from your grip.

Or, an enameled cast iron sink may be your answer. These sinks withstand whatever your family dishes out, from heavy pots to searing skillets, and come in a wide range of colors.

A composite sink like Kohler’s Cairn sink is made of Neoroc, a matte-finish composite material designed for extreme durability and beauty. It resists scratches, stains and fading and is highly heat- and impact-resistant. Learn more at Kohler. com.

Installation

Top-mount sinks extend above the countertop surface, are easiest to install and often are used with laminate counters.

Under-mount sinks are mounted beneath the countertop, making it easy to sweep debris off the counter. They’re most commonly used with solid-surface, stone and quartz countertops.

Apron-front sinks, or farmhouse sinks, have an attractive front panel or apron. They can be mounted under or on top of the counter.

Bowl Configuration

Single-bowl sinks are ideal for washing

large pots and platters.

Offset bowl sinks provide separation for washing and rinsing, typically with one larger side.

Double-equal sinks have separate bowls, with the option for extra-deep bowls.

Smart Divide sinks from Kohler feature dividers half the height of conventional double-bowl sinks for the openness of a single bowl and the function of a double bowl. ❚ (Source: Family Features)

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