Smart Living Weekly - April 5, 2017

Sm mart a r t L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit 95¢ • April 5, 2017

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Right in Our Region

Centennial Great War Event Largest of its Kind

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Kick Off Your Lawn Strategy Now Recipe: New York Honey Cheesecake Summerfield Zoo to Open on Earth Day Questions to Ask When Buying Furniture Pamper Your Tootsies with the Right Shoes

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 20 The Great War at Midway Village Museum Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Tips for Buying Furniture Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 What is Palm Sunday?

Want a second opinion?

We give you one at every visit!

The L.P. Johnson Family Health Center (FHC) trains resident physicians. Every time you see a resident physician, a seasoned family physician reviews your current condition. You benefit from the highest standards of family focused care. As the family medicine residency program for the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford, FHC has trained more than 400 family medicine physicians, many of whom continue to provide care in our community.

We accept most insurance and are open 8 am–8 pm Monday through Thursday and 8 am–5 pm on Fridays.

Call 815.972.1000 to schedule an appointment.

Your Kitchen .....................................................15 New York Honey Cheesecake Your Outing ........................................................17 Summerfield Zoo to Open on Earth Day Outdoor Living ...................................................19 Get a Jump on Your Lawncare Senior Living ......................................................23 Happiness is Ageless Your Health ............................................. .......... .25 Pamper Your Feet for Good Health Your Technology ............................................. ..26 Don’t Spend Too Much on Tech Your Fun ................................................... ......... 27 Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 28

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Janine Pumilia Assistant Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen Deputy Editor Jermaine Pigee Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Ryan Contributing Writers Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes Advertising Sales Representatives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones, Bob Ulmer, Nita Lasky Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes

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

Copyright 2017 by Hughes Media Corp., 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

They’re Still Wonder Years

T

he more frantic our troubled world becomes, the more important it is to let Mother Nature do her healing work. New studies conclude what we always knew in our “wonder years”: Spending time outdoors, in natural spaces, is good for us. It calms us and makes us feel better.

In times of frustration during my growing-up years in Loves Park, I’d jump on my purple Schwinn and make a beeline for Martin Park, where my favorite willow tree listened to my troubles without judgment.

I’d lean against its trunk and watch the diamonds on the Rock River sparkle in the sun. The sound of lapping water and honking geese and papery willow fronds shifting in the breeze somehow tamed my lion-sized problem into kitten size. Hey, even 8-yearolds have problems, or feel they do.

Decades later, when a spate of tragic events ravaged my 30-something soul, I survived by exploring nearly every path that exists at Rock Cut State Park. Something about the cool air beneath those pine-scented tree canopies sustained me. Instead of talking to the trees, as I did when I was 8, older me took comfort in the trees’ indifference.

They reminded me that the world is much bigger than my crises at hand – that this moment, too, would pass, and joy would ‘come in the morning.’

And it did.

It’s not just a cliché to say we’re really fortunate, in our region, to have so many places in which to find solace in the natural world. When I stroll through Klehm Arboretum or a county forest preserve or Anderson Japanese Gardens, just for fun, I remember that these soul-nurturing sanctuaries just may be sanity-saving for some people at some moments of their lives.

How do we put a price on that?

We can’t escape a troubled world but we can better cope with it by allowing nature to work her magic in us. That’s smart living.

There’s no better time than spring to get outside and watch nature breathe life into our landscape.

Here’s to making our “wonder years” last a lifetime! ❚ Janine Pumilia Managing Editor

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Y H  G

Questions to Ask When Buying Furniture

By Janine Pumilia, managing editor

Y

ou get what you pay for, when it comes to furniture, and there’s a growing demand nationwide for better quality furniture, says Mitchell Johnson, store manager of the new 6651 E. State St. Gustafson’s Furniture & Mattress store.

“Both across the U.S. and here in our region, people are tired of cheap furniture that falls apart,” says Johnson.

Leather furniture remains popular, but Johnson cautions, “Be sure to ask questions about leather quality, since there are many imitations on the market.

We also sell a lot of fabric sofas,” says Johnson. “There’s a trend toward more texture, with tweeds and corduroys and weaves. Today’s upholstery options are really wonderful – very durable but beautiful and comfortable. Most of today’s upholstery fabrics are made from PET, a highly durable polyester thread.”

Reclining furniture is very big, in every age group, across all demographics, says Johnson. “Don’t be afraid of electric mechanisms in recliners,” he says. “People worry too much about the motors breaking, but that seldom happens. You’re more likely to break a recliner that has to be manually raised and lowered. And electric motors give you a full range of motion rather than stopping at certain positions.”

When buying upholstered furniture, the important question is not how the surface looks but what lies beneath.

“Ask good questions when shopping,” advises Johnson. “Is the frame made from strong laminated wood or just plywood? Is there a reasonably good spring system that will distribute weight?

Is the padding made of high-density foam or cheap fluff? Is the leather real?”

Reputable stores often have a cutaway model so you can see the materials below the surface.

Do business with people who are in it for the long haul, not fly-by-night chain stores with high turnover, suggests Johnson. “They have a real stake in making you happy and will deal with you more honestly.”

Along with the new East State Street location, Gustafson's operates its original showroom at 808 W. Riverside Blvd. ❚

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I  W

Palm Sunday T

his Sunday, Christians worldwide will celebrate Palm Sunday. What is it?

It’s the Sunday before Easter and commemorates Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem, as recorded in Mark 11:1–11, Matthew 21:1–11, Luke 19:28–44 and John 12:12– 19. It marks the start of Holy Week, the days and events that led up to the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Crowds in Jerusalem welcomed Jesus enthusiastically. They waved palm fronds at him as he entered the city on a donkey, as prophesied in Zechariah 9:9, NIV: Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.

The people had heard of the great miracles done by Jesus and dared to believe he was the long-awaited redeemer of Israel. Little did they know he would soon emerge not only as savior to Israel, but also as Messiah to all people who choose to believe on him, then and now.

Why didn’t they know he would offer eternal life to all people? Because Jesus didn’t spell out the full plan during his ministry, not wanting Satan to stop the dark events that would unfold during Holy Week. Paul explains in I Corinthians 2:8: None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.

Powerful government and religious rulers, threatened by Jesus’ popularity, chose to humiliate, torture and execute him. Jesus endured their cruelty, even though he had the power to stop them. “Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than 12 legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen this way?” (Matt. 26:53-54 NIV) By one man’s disobedience (Adam’s) the world fell; By one man’s obedience it is redeemed. (Romans 5:19) Palm Sunday celebrates the beginning of the end of Jesus’ ministry on earth – and our joy of being in his presence. Because of Jesus, we may approach God not as timid servants of a king, but as sons and daughters of a loving parent. ❚ – Janine Pumilia

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Y K

Pair Like a Pro: Wine and Desserts W

hen it comes to pairing wine with food, even experts agree that desserts can pose a challenge. A wide variety of flavor combinations can make it hard to find the perfect selection to serve with your sweet treat. While there’s no exact science to wine pairing, these simple tips can help you make your selection.

equal. For a richer delicacy, try something like Villa Pozzi Nero D’avola, a more fruit-forward, easy-drinking red varietal.

For more tips visit winefix.com

Sweet Cheesecake A good rule: the lighter the dessert, the lighter the wine. Avoid heavy reds for a sweeter dessert and instead pair with a crisp white like Chardonnay, such as Joseph Carr from Sonoma, Calif.

Citrusy Lemon Meringue Pie Lemon flavors can sometimes be polarizing, but complementing this dessert with an equally citrusy wine can work wonders. Try pairing with a food-friendly pinot grigio or a sauvignon blanc.

Rich Chocolate Cake Red wine with chocolate seems like a nobrainer, but not all red wines are created

Recipe courtesy of the National Honey Board 2 cups graham cracker crumbs 1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese 3/4 cup honey 1/4 cup flour 5 eggs 1/3 cup heavy cream 1 TB lemon zest, grated 1 tsp. vanilla fresh berries, for garnish fresh mint, for garnish

New York-Style Honey Cheesecake

Preparation: To make crust: In small bowl, stir together graham cracker crumbs and butter until well blended. Press mixture evenly onto bottom and sides of greased 9-inch springform

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pan; set aside. Heat oven to 350 F. To make filling: In electric mixer bowl, combine cream cheese, honey and flour. Beat until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Beat in cream, lemon zest and vanilla.

Pour cream cheese mixture over crust; bake 15 minutes. Lower oven temperature to 200 F and bake 1 hour and 30 minutes longer, or until center no longer looks wet or shiny.

With oven off and door ajar, let cheesecake cool 1 hour in oven. Remove cheesecake to rack to cool completely. Cover and refrigerate cheesecake at least 4 hours before serving. Garnish with fruit and fresh mint. Pair with chardonnay like Joseph Carr. ❚

Source: Family Features

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Y O

Summerfield Zoo Opens on Earth Day S

ummerfield Zoo will open its 2017 season this year on Earth Day weekend, April 22 & 23, with a number of planned Earth Day activities throughout the day. Visitors can say “hi” to their favorite zoo residents and meet some spring zoo babies, including reindeer, goats and a kangaroo, with several more babies expected as the season progresses.

“This season we’re really looking toward the future,” says Rick Anderson, one of the owners of Summerfield Zoo,

3088 Flora Road, Belvidere. “We have several new faces joining our zoo family, including Rusty the red kangaroo and a pair of playful North American river otters. You can also see the Arctic Foxes in their new habitat, which was completed late last fall.”

More improvements to the zoo are in the works.

“We’re really excited for this year because we have a lot of new exhibits planned for construction, including new habitats for the grey wolves, African crested porcupines, North American river otters and others,” says Anderson. “The zoo is going to be expanding quite a bit.”

Summerfield Zoo specializes in providing a personal animal experience for all ages.

“As a small zoo, visitors can get up close and meet many of our animals,” says Anderson. “We have everything

Photo of (top right) mountain lion cub and (left) Rick Anderson with wolf pup by David and Adrienne Olson, Olson Photography.

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from A for alligator to Z for zebra. We also have everything in between, including mountain lions, hyena, wolves, monkeys and much more.”

Learn more at summerfieldfarmandzoo.com or call (815) 547-4852 or follow the zoo on Facebook. The zoo is open Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m..

Admission is $10 per adult, $8 per senior and $5 per child. All proceeds go to the care of the animals, many of which are rescue animals. ❚

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O L

Get a Head Start on Your Beautiful Lawn B y To n i R o c h a

I

t’s never too early in the season to prime lawns for a long, beautiful growing season.

Robert Ewald, owner of Ewald Services Inc., says now is the best time to start a step-by-step process to help ensure lawns are lush, green and resilient against whatever Midwest weather might deliver.

“The first thing, as early as is practical, is to get the yard in shape,” Ewald says. “This means removing all dead leaves, sticks and debris and assessing what damage has occurred through the winter months.”

Once cleanup is complete, fertilize to encourage healthy growth and to treat any brown patches that have emerged.

“As soon as the ground temperatures start to rise, you can apply crab grass control products, from now until about May 1,” he says.

Avoid applying crab grass control to any trouble spots or bare spots, however.

“If you find bare spots, the first step is to clear away any dead leaves,” he says. “Don’t apply crab grass treatments on bare spots. Around mid-April, seed the bare spot with the appropriate grass seed and apply a light cover. As ground temperatures warm, the grass will sprout.

From then on, it’s important to keep the area watered.”

In densely shaded areas, grass seed may sprout on bare spots in a gratifying manner only to die out in mid-June.

“It’s vital to choose the right seed for the job,” Ewald says. “As trees leaf out, the deep shade can interrupt grass growth. By selecting the appropriate mix of sun and shade seed, the grass will be more resilient and last steadily through the summer and fall.”

Keeping lawns properly watered is essential.

“In general, water just as Mother Nature does,” he says. “Saturate the ground, but not to the point where puddles form.

Then allow the lawn to dry out. Usually, it’s safe to water once to twice per week, depending on natural rainfall.”

For more information or lawn services, call (815) 877-3500 or visit ewaldservices.com. ❚

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R  O R

The Great War at Midway Village Museum

By Janine Pumilia, managing editor

O

n April 8 & 9, one century after the U.S. entered World War I, Midway Village Museum will host its 5th annual Great War re-enactment in cooperation with the U.S. World War I Centennial Commission created by Congress. It will be the largest public event of its kind in the U.S. The Great War, also called World War I and The War to End All Wars, took place from July 1914 to November 1918. The U.S. entered the war on April 6, 1917.

“It’s quite an honor to be working with the Centennial Commission this year and to serve as a model event for delegates from 10 states who’ll be learning from our success,” says Kristen Hoeker, special events coordinator at Midway Village Musuem, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford. “They want to see how Cover photo by Dan Mitchell

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we do things here.”

The museum built its national reputation for excellent re-enactments with World War II Days, which draws more than 1,300 re-enactors each year and celebrated its 20th anniversary last year.

Now the Great War event is earning its own reputation for excellence. Five years ago, about 100 re-enactors participated. Last year there were 225 and Hoeker expects 250 this year.

“The re-enactors we work with have very high standards both for safety and for authenticity of uniforms and equipment,” says Hoeker. “They also do their research and really understand the war so they can answer questions.”

Honorary chairs of the World War I Centennial Commission include presidents Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush. In attendance at this event will be Centennial Commission member Michael Knapp,

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chief historian for the American Battle Monuments Commission, and Centennial Commission member Theodore Sedgwick, a Fellow at the Transatlantic Center at The John Hopkins School of Advanced International Study.

Interest in the Great War has been growing in recent years, says Hoeker.

“In many ways, World War I laid the groundwork for the way the past century has unfolded,” she explains. “Almost the entire world was involved in it together.

R  O R “My own mother didn’t want to attend because she had no interest in warfare techniques,” Hoeker says. “But she absolutely loved the experience and now she’s all-in.”

Along with large-scale, narrated pyrotechnic battle re-enactments and staged skirmishes in the village and woods, facets of period homefront efforts, arts and culture will be explored through special events and lectures. A British trench near the Albert-Bapaume road at Ovillers-la-Boisselle, July “For example, 1916 during the Battle of the Somme. The men are from A Company, 11th the Suffragette Battalion, The Cheshire Regiment. Public domain photo. movement gained momentum during the Great War as women assumed responsibilities formerly held by men who were off fighting,” says Hoeker. “We think about Rosie the Riveter during World War II, but the same dynamic was in play during World War I. No one knew if we’d be attacked over here, so women prepared the homefront by planting victory gardens, stepping up food production, learning medical skills and other things.” A special lecture on this subject will be presented A scene plays out during Midway Village both days at 1 p.m., followed by a 3:15 Museum’s Great War re-enactment. p.m. Suffragette march.

“Great sacrifices were made by miliMovies and war trailers from the tary personnel and civilians alike and 1910 era will be screened using original we try to present a well-rounded experiequipment. Performers will present perience,” says Hoeker. “Working with the od music. And female re-enactors will Centennial Commission has helped us to portray the Salvation Army Doughnut dream up all sorts of new ideas that we Dollies who traveled to Europe to make think our visitors will love.” and serve doughnuts and coffee to solEvent sponsors include HMC diers.

Products and the National Electrical Contractors Association.

The event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, rain or shine. Tickets cost $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 3-17, per day. They may be purchased in the museum gift shop or on event days. Only registered re-enactors may wear historic military uniforms.

Learn more at midwayvillage.com Left: The ‘Tin Turtle’ trench train moved supplies to soldiers during World War I. Right: Women or by calling (815) 397-9112. ❚ played key support roles and advanced their independence during the Great War. (Swartzendruber Photography)

It’s fascinating to see how alliances were made, broken and have changed over the past 100 years.”

However reluctant the U.S. was to involve itself, it emerged from the Great War as a global player. The war changed the trajectory of technology and industry; it changed social, political and economic ideologies and geographic boundary lines across the globe. And it claimed tens of millions of lives plus millions more, indirectly, in flu pandemics that followed.

The Great War is less well understood than World War II, in part because it’s further removed from our generation and no veterans remain. This event will educate visitors in a lively, entertaining format.

“Re-enacting is an expensive hobby and these people are very enthusiastic,” says Hoeker. “They love answering questions about this era and they’re comfortable chatting with anyone – from war scholars to children who just want to pet a cavalry horse.”

Horses played a much bigger role in the Great War than in World War II and will be well represented at the event.

“These are specially trained horses that don’t flinch at the sound of gunfire and have appeared in many movies,” says Hoeker. Other visible differences that distinguish The Great War from World War II include an emphasis on trench and gas warfare, limited aircraft and tank involvement and, of course, a different array of armies and uniforms.

Exclusive to the Rockford re-enactment is a 150-yard permanent replica trench with bunkers and, new this year, a life-sized reproduction “Tin Turtle,” which is a small train that ran supplies to soldiers in trenches.

Hoeker and others have worked hard to make sure the event appeals to many kinds of people.

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Y S L

Supportive Living Week: ‘Happiness is Ageless’

By Peggy Werner ne of the most prevalent fears among aging people is whether they’ll outlive the money they’ve saved for retirement.

Heritage Woods of Rockford, 202 N. Show Place Dr., offers an affordable assisted living lifestyle because it works with residents who have to go on Medicaid to continue receiving services. Those services include meals, housekeeping, laundry, activities and a 24-hour emergency response system.

“People who live here don’t have to worry about having enough money because they can stay put. They don’t have to change apartments or move to another wing and the staff doesn’t know who is or isn’t on Medicaid,” says Yvonne Peterson, director of marketing.

Peterson has worked in senior care for almost 20 years. When she was first

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introduced to supportive living, she knew that’s where she wanted to dedicate herself.

“When you see people living in private-pay buildings, if they run out of money, they have to move out. After years of getting used to a lifestyle, that can be heartbreaking,” she says.

Heritage Woods of Rockford is a licensed supportive living community, one of only two in Winnebago County. Heritage Woods of Belvidere is the only such supportive living community in Boone County.

Communities throughout the state are gearing up to celebrate Supportive Living Week April 24-28. The theme is “Happiness is Ageless” in order to spotlight what makes those communities special.

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Staff members are planning activities, contests, events and participation in regional and statewide spelling bees and Wii bowling competitions.

Supportive Living Week is sponsored each April by the Affordable Assisted Living Coalition (AALC) to celebrate the success of supportive living as a viable and cost effective alternative for seniors and those with physical disabilities.❚

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Y H

Good Shoes Help Feet & Body to Be Happy

By Peggy Werner

I

mproper shoe fit and shoes that offer no support are leading causes of foot problems, says Linda Myers, manager and buyer at Akerman’s Shoes at Edgebrook Center, 1613 N. Alpine Road, Rockford.

Among the most common foot problems the store’s customers experience are Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain), arch pain, bunions, hammertoes, tendonitis and heel spurs.

“All of these problems can be caused by other things, but improper shoe fit and shoes with no support are a leading contributor to foot problems,” she says.

People don’t always realize that as they age, lose or gain weight, or experience health problems, their foot size may change. In time, the arch relaxes and the foot gets longer, she says.

If shoes don’t fit well, other parts of the body may hurt.

The reverse is true, too. If a person is feeling an ache or pain anywhere in the body, it usually affects how he or she walks, which may lead to issues with the feet. This can affect the alignment of the knees and back. So, taking care of feet with supportive shoes can prevent a lot of problems.

Akerman’s specializes in shoes of all sizes, in brands that are known for their quality workmanship and support.

The store’s inventory evolves as more manufacturers respond to the foot problems caused by wearing unsupportive shoes that don’t fit right, says Myers.

“We used to be known for certain brands, but we’re constantly expanding what we offer. More and more companies are making quality shoes and we’re al-

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ways looking to add newer brands to our selection,” she says.

For more information, go to akermanshoes.com or call (815) 397-9706. ❚

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

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Y T

Reduce the Cost of Monthly Tech Bills

By Peggy Werner

S

pring is a time when many projects loom, and they all cost money. Why not think about ways to save money on your monthly tech bills? EZ Satellite & Wireless, 6239 N. 2nd St., Suite B, in Loves Park, can help with that.

“People are paying too much for phone, internet, and television services by using just one company,” says Charles Zambrano, owner. “You don’t have to choose just one company to save money.

People get excited when they see promotions because they’re just looking at the price, which will jump up dramatically after the special offer ends. Plus, they don’t always know exactly what they’re getting – and what you don’t know can hurt you.”

When you purchase TV and internet service through EZ Satellite & Wireless, you’ll get a $100 gift card when you share the news with someone else.

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

The company also offers the highly rated Protect America home security service for $19.95 per month.

EZ Satellite specializes in helping people to make the right choices based on what they need and where they live, so they can save money.

The family-owned business opened in 2011, in Roscoe, and moved to a larger, more visible location in Loves Park last May, adding a new bill-paying center for customer convenience. EZ Satellite & Wireless is a full service retailer for satellite TV and internet and can also help people to acquire cable services.

About 80 percent of Zambrano’s business is working with residential customers in Southern Wisconsin and Northern

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Illinois. The company also works with businesses.

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.

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

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

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

Alton Brown: Eat Your Science Tour April 5, 8:30 p.m. Drool over tasty confections during Alton Brown's insane science demonstrations. Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 Rockford, IL 61101 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

2017 Summer Science Open House April 6, 4-6 p.m. The University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford and Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., host presentations by research mentors for a Summer Science Internship Program. UIC Health Sciences Campus – Rockford, Robert J. Vickrey Auditorium, 1601 Parkview Ave., Rockford, (815) 395-5680, rockford.medicine.uic.edu.

Astrobiology: Penelope J. Boston Lecture April 6, 4 p.m. Dr. Penelope Boston is the director of NASA’s Astrobiology Institute. Rockford University, Severson Auditorium, 5050 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 226-4100, rockford.edu.

First Fridays April 7, 5 p.m. Each month downtown art galleries, shops and music and theater venues work together to stay open late and provide new art, music and goods. Downtown Rockford, (779) 537-5319, facebook.com/FirstFridaysRockford.

23rd Annual Botanica Luncheon April 7, 9:30 a.m. Enjoy a delicious lunch, prepared by Greenfire Restaurant, followed by an informative and entertaining presentation by acclaimed garden designer and style maker Jon Carloftis. Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, Visitor Center Gallery Room, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford, (815) 965-8146, Klehm.org.

MSG Acoustic Blues Trio April 7, 7:30 p.m. This band raises the roof with old-fashioned house party tunes, makes you laugh with witty originals and makes you weep with blues ballads. Mendelssohn Hall, 406 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.

Red Shoe Run for Donor Awareness April 8, 8 a.m. 5K run, 8:10 a.m. fitness walk.

This 5K run/fitness walk began in 2004 to increase awareness about the lifesaving need for organ, tissue, eye, blood and marrow cell donations and raise funds to sustain those efforts in the community. NIU Rockford, 8500 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 965-8751, redshoerun.org.

See more than 225 re-enactors at World War 1 Days April 8-9 at Midway Village Museum.

Dancing with the Dinos April 8, 6:30-9 p.m. Enjoy an evening of dancing, science games, raffles, a scavenger hunt and a glamorous photo shoot with dressing up as paleontologists, engineers, doctors and more. Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 965-3433, burpee.org.

Species Spotlight Saturday April 8, 9-11:30 a.m. Naturalist and Illinois Bee Spotter Barbara Williams presents on bumblebees and other native pollinators. Forest Preserves of Winnebago County Headquarters, 5500 Northrock Dr., Rockford, winnebagoforest.org.

World War I: The Great War April 8-9, Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. to 4 p.m. See more than 225 re-enactors portraying soldiers and civilians from WWI. Enter encampments, tour a reproduction 150-yard trench system and watch large-scale battle re-enactments. Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, (815) 397-9112, midwayvillage.com.

Jazz at Emerson: Carl Cole & Co. April 9, 3 p.m. Savor an intimate concert with Carl Cole & Co. with light refreshments to follow. Mendelssohn Hall, Emerson House, Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.

Rockford Wind Ensemble Concert April 9, 3 p.m. Now in its 15th season, Rockford Wind Ensemble has performed nearly 500 pieces in concert. Their performances include historically significant works, outstanding soloists, world premieres as well as popular favorites and concert band standards. Nordlof Center, J.R. Sullivan Theater, 118 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 227-8550, rockfordwindensemble.org. ❚

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

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April 5

27

WDL

Restaurant of the Week

‘Something Different’ At GreenFire Restaurant

I

f you’re looking for a unique dining experience, look no further than GreenFire Restaurant, Bar and Bakery, 6795 E. Riverside Blvd.

Owner Shendet Ismajlaj has a long history of working in Rockford area restaurants and is now carrying on the dream of late owner and founder Philippe Forcioli, who owned Café Patou and then opened GreenFire.

“I worked with Philippe for several years and never met anyone who could cook like him,” says Ismajlaj.

GreenFire is an American-contemporary farm restaurant, bar and bakery that uses only natural, fresh and seasonal ingredients, with everything cooked in state-of-the-art wood stone ovens.

“We offer something for everyone,

but we cater to the individual who wants to try something different,” says Ismajlaj.

“People tell us there is nothing like it anywhere. We are known for our customer service, quality of food and unique flavor combinations.”

For breakfast, unique choices include tequila French toast, caramel apple pecan French toast, avocado eggs Benedict, wild berries crepes, and apple cider pancakes.

Appetizers include treats such as gorgonzola stuffed dates wrapped in applewood smoked duck bacon, with blackberry gastrique.

For lunch and dinner there’s a wide selection of salads, meat and seafood dishes, burgers, pasta, pizza and delicious crepes made famous by Café Patou.

(Blake Nunes photo)

By Peggy Werner

Shendet Ismajlaj, owner of GreenFire

On any given week, at least a dozen kinds of dessert are featured, the most popular one being a flourless, dense chocolate torte.There are regular and featured daily specials, as well as dinner pizzas for $10 after 10 p.m. every day. Learn more by calling GreenFire at (815) 316-3473. ❚

In the Spotlight

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Smart Living Weekly

April 5

To advertise call 815-316-2300

Arturo’s

A

rturo’s at 107 W. Main St., Poplar Grove, Ill., is run by Arturo Torres, who learned to cook authentic Mexican food in Guadalajara, Mexico. He uses only fresh, from-scratch ingredients.

Fan favorites include tacos, fajitas, 10 Finger Burritos and enchilada dinners.

American dishes include steaks, burgers, chicken wings and seafood plates. There’s also an expanding selection of domestic and imported beers, and, of course, the house margarita.

Breakfast is served Saturdays and Sundays, starting at 7 a.m., with 12 to 15 authentic Mexican options like huevos rancheros, chilaquiles, juevos tirados and huevos con chorizos, along with American fare. Arturo’s expects to open a rooftop beer garden by the end of 2017.

Hours: Mon.-Thu. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri.Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and Sun. 12 p.m.-8 p.m. ❚

Dickey’s Dish of the Week Name of Plate: Rib Plate Restaurant: Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, 845 S. Perryville Road, Rockford Description: This dish comes with five hickory-smoked rib bones – just one bone short of a half rack. The plate also comes with two homestyle side dishes. Choose from mac and cheese, baked potato casserole, green beans with bacon and onions, waffle fries, coleslaw, potato salad and other options.

Why does this dish stand out?

“The ribs are smoked fresh every day with real hickory wood,” says Ryan McPeek, owner. “That gives them a really nice flavor. There’s also a lot of food on the rib plate. A lot of people end up taking home leftovers.”

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit offers dine-in, carry-out and catering services. Hours are 11 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. ❚

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