Smart Living Weekly January 31, 2018

Sm mart a L iving ma Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • January 31, 2018

™

Right in Our Region

Gearing Up for Wintertime Fun

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Sweet Valentine Treats Shedding Light on Chandeliers Pain Relief without Medication Money Tips: Don’t Overpay Your Taxes

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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 Outdoor Winter Fun Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Shedding New Light on Chandeliers Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Being Thankful Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Sweet Treat for Valentine’s Day Your Outing .......................................................19 Laura and John Fraser Collection Opens at RAM Your Technology .................................... .......... 20 Save Money on Tech Bills Your Pet .................................... ........................ 21 Regular Grooming for Better Health Your Health ............................................. .......... 23 Pain Relief Without Medication Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 Prairie Street Brewhouse Your Money .............................................. ......... 29 It’s Tax Time: Don’t Overpay

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen Assistant Managing Editor Jermaine Pigee Editor Emeritus Janine Pumilia Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Behling Contributing Writer Peggy Werner, Paula Kalivoda Furniss General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes Advertising Sales Representatives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones, Nita Lasky, Kendra Green Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes 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 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.

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The Space Race S

ixty years ago today, on Jan. 31, 1958, the U.S. launched Explorer 1, our first satellite.

This orbiting wonder, which circled Earth 58,000 times before burning up in 1970, was a rush job.

The U.S. Army Jet Propulsion Lab designed and built it in just three months. The USSR had launched its satellite, Sputnik, a year earlier and the Space Race was on.

Also in 1958, President Dwight Eisenhower, who believed in the importance of science, ordered the formation of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). He also put into place two covert space-related national security programs run by the CIA and Air Force.

The Space Race ended when Apollo 11 astronaut Neil Armstrong walked on the moon in July of 1969. Soviets failed four times to launch a lunar craft between 1969 and 1972.

The Space Race was one of many arenas in which the U.S. and USSR competed by proxy to prove their way of life as superior: a two-party capitalist democracy vs. a one-party socialist/ communist dictatorship.

After the USSR collapsed in 1991, Boris Yeltsin became the first legitimately elected president in Russian history. Many state agencies were privatized but control was ceded to wellconnected people who now form an oligarchy.

Vladimir Putin, once a high-ranking KGB officer, captured the presidency by leveraging the nostalgia Russians felt for their once-proud nation. Putin has since closed the door on legitimate Russian elections; at least 10 of his critics have been murdered and countless others are jailed.

Today’s Russian space program, Roscosmos, focuses on retaining Soviet-era military capability, not space exploration.

Science is not faring well in the U.S. government either, with most science programs, including disease and disaster prevention, slashed by double digits in the 2018 budget proposal.

NASA faces cuts as well. China is challenging U.S. dominance in space, cyber, AI and other technologies with security applications.

What will the next 60 years bring? ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor

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Visit our Café serving 815-227-2000 • Hours: Mon 9am-8pm, Tues-Sat 9am-5pm, Closed Sundays Breakfast and Lunch Toonline advertise call 815-316-2300 at: www.bensonstone.com Smart Living Weekly Jan.Visit 31 us 10

Y H  G

Shedding New Light on Today’s Chandeliers

By Janine Pumilia

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inter can be a dark time and we spend much of it indoors. If you’re looking for a little “pick-me-up” about now, consider getting out of the house to survey the wide selection of chandeliers in the lighting gallery at Benson Stone Co., 1100 11th St., Rockford. Even if you don’t buy anything, the array of beautiful lighting is sure to brighten your spirits.

“Chandelier” is simply an Old French term for “candle holder.” In our day it’s come to mean a lighting fixture with branches holding many bulbs, as opposed to a single pendant fixture.

Whether adorned with sparkling crystals, industrial-look metals, nautical roping, or even farmhouse-style chicken wire, a well-chosen chandeliers complements your decor, establishes a focal point and makes a statement about you.

“The variety of styles has never been wider,” says Kelly Ferro, a sales associ-

ate in the Benson Stone Lighting Gallery.

Ferro is personally drawn to “out-of-thebox” styles. For example, she recently spied a chandelier that’s inspired by a bird’s nest.

Candleholders rise up through the “nest” to hold bulbs.

“People think of sparkly chandeliers, which are very popular, but there are all kinds of light fixtures that reflect every kind of taste,” says Ferro.

Marking focal points in your home by using chandeliers is a surprisingly simple and effective way to change the attitude your home exudes.

“A chandelier is important because it generally hangs over your dining table, which is the heart of your home,” adds

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Debra Schneider, also an associate in the Benson Stone Lighting Gallery. “When you light up a focal point area in your home, it really contributes to a sense of warmth and style. This is something that’s both functional and beautiful.”

You spend a lot of time indoors. Why not banish cabin fever by throwing a little light on it?

A chandelier is like jewelry for the home.❚

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I  W

Being Thankful

F

ew habits can raise our level of personal happiness more effectively than the habit of seeing what’s good and being thankful for it. This holds true for all people, but for Christians it’s central to following the example set by Jesus Christ.

Many credible studies have documented that people who focus on what’s good in their lives report higher overall satisfaction with life than those who focus on their lack. In large part, happiness is less connected to our condition than to how we choose to view our lives.

Anecdotal evidence of this concept is plentiful. One example is the story of Nick Vujicic, an Australian man born without arms or legs who nearly succumbed to deep depression in his youth. As a teen, he began to view his disability as a way to help others and committed his life to God. Today he runs Life Without Limbs, a successful non-profit organization, and travels the world as a motivational speaker.

He’s married, has two children, a worldwide following and a meaningful life.

“It’s not about the outside. It’s about being complete on the inside,” he tells crowds. “I’ve seen so many people complete on the outside who don’t know the truth. It’s the truth that sets you free and who the Son sets free is free indeed.”

Jesus Christ consistently set an example of thankfulness, even during his prayers in the Garden of Gethsemane, when he knew he would soon be tortured and killed. The Apostle Paul followed suit despite agonizing hardships.

Psalm 100:4 & 5, thought to be penned by King David, advises: “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.”

All of us face pain in our lives at some point. But even in the darkest moments, we can look up and find blessings.

Each of us has the capacity to face life with joy and thanksgiving. We’re free to adopt or reject an attitude of gratitude. ❚ 12

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Be Sweet This Valentine’s Day T

reat family, friends and co-workers to something they will all love this Valentine’s Day by making easy and impressive cookies. Start with your favorite roll-out cookie recipe or simply dress up store-bought ones by adding some simple details with icing.

From the cupids at Wilton, here are three ways to leave them smitten with sweets this Valentine’s Day: * Desserts with dimension. Triple your treats by stacking three decorated cookies in different sizes together and attach them with icing. * Complement with color. A simple piping technique looks stunning when piped in different colors on your cookies. * Get to gifting. Wrap your finished treats in a Valentine’s Day treat bag or box.

For more fun and delicious Valentine’s Day recipes, baking tips and inspiration, visit wilton.com.

Y K

Stackable Ombre Heart Cookies Favorite roll-out cookie recipe Royal icing (recipe on wilton.com) Rose Icing Color Heart Micro Mini Icing Decorations

Prepare and roll out cookie dough following recipe directions. Use three smallest cutters from four-piece heart nesting cookie cutter set to cut out shapes. Bake and cool cookies.

Divide royal icing into three equal portions, and tint three shades of rose. Thin a portion of each shade following recipe directions.

Use tip 3 and full-strength tinted icing to outline cookies. Use thinned tinted icing in cut decorating bag to fill in cookies; gently tap to smooth icing. Let dry overnight.

Use icing to attach cookies, stacking largest to smallest; place icing decoration on top.

Scalloped Heart Cookies

Favorite roll-out cookie recipe Ready-To-Use White Creamy Decorator Icing Icing Colors: Burgundy, Red-Red and Christmas Red

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Prepare and roll out dough following recipe directions. Use largest cutter from the 4-piece heart nesting cookie cutter set to cut out shape. Bake and cool cookies.

Divide icing into four equal portions. Tint one of each portion light burgundy, dark burgundy and combination of red-red/Christmas red. Reserve last portion white.

Starting from top edge of heart, use tip 102 and icing in dark burgundy, light burgundy, red and white to pipe V-shaped groups of two petals, one piped from left and one from right, to create row of petals in alternating colors. Repeat with second row between petals in first row. Continue to repeat pattern until cookies are covered.

Source: Wilton and Family Features

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Embrace Cold-Weather Outdoor Fun

By Peggy Werner hile some people are huddled indoors, pining for spring, others are taking advantage of cold-weather outdoor fun in our region, such as cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing or skating.

“We’re so fortunate in the Rockford area and in Winnebago County to have so many great open outdoor spaces to play in,” says Kevin Versino, general manager of Rocktown Adventures, 313 N. Madison St. in Rockford. “I encourage people to get off the couch and get outside to enjoy them.”

The adventure club specializes in paddle sports, Nordic sports, outdoor apparel and camping and hiking gear.

“We see increasing interest in outdoor sports as more and more people embrace wellness for themselves and their companies,” says Versino. “Outdoor

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recreation provides especially memorable experiences and is good for physical, emotional and mental health.”

Rockford is fortunate to have two golf courses groomed for cross-country skiing, at Aldeen and Sinnissippi. Also, funds have been approved for the first phase of a 13-mile trail system for yearround sports at Atwood Park.

Cold temperatures shouldn’t hold you back, says Versino.

“There’s no such thing as weather that’s too cold,” he insists. “It’s just a matter of whether you’re dressed properly.”

A base layer of clothing that wicks away moisture can be topped with light, breathable fabrics that keep you warm and protected from wind, yet allow for freedom of movement.

“When I train for cross-country races, I may start out cold, but I know in 10

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minutes I’ll be sweating,” Versino says.

“The cold just motivates you to move faster and it’s surprising how much heat you can generate. The key is to stay dry and let your body provide the heat.”

Technological advancements have made it possible to stay warm and dry while working hard at winter outdoor sports. For example, today’s skis are shorter, for better maneuverability and dexterity, and snowshoe bindings are easier to get on and off. Snowshoes, invented for hunters, are now used for running races. And winter apparel is on sale this time of year, marked down 20 to 50 percent.

Brandon Jack, manager of Loves Park Motorsports, 11951 Main St., Roscoe, says snowmobile sales are the biggest part of his business.

“There’s plenty of winter left and plenty of snowmobile trails from here to

R  O R Canada to make use of,” he says.

He encourages people who’ve never gone snowmobiling to give it a try.

“I’ve known very few people in my life who don’t enjoy snowmobiling,” says Jack. “I try to get out as much as possible.

People who do it get hooked on it because they have so much fun with family and friends and see so much cool stuff.”

Jack earned his master’s degree in sports science and sports psychology before returning to his family’s business, where he began working in 1996.

Over the years, he’s observed major improvement in the design of clothing, equipment and accessories for outdoor sports.

Top-of-the-line snowmobiles offer up to 250 horsepower, a turbo charger, heated seats, heated handgrips and airride suspension.

Getting equipped for snowmobiling can cost a few hundred or a few thousand dollars, so he encourages beginners to start by renting or buying used equipment

before making a larger commitment to the sport.

Right now his business is offering rebates up to $3,000 and 0 percent financing. A lot of winter sports clothing is marked down 50 percent this time of year.

Rod Chambers heads up the trail system for Oaks Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club, one of many local clubs in which volunteers are responsible for marking and grooming trails.

Local clubs are affiliated with regional and national associations that link trails.

Chambers started snowmobiling in 1989, when a friend encouraged him to hit the trails as a way to fill some of his time while he was laid off from a construction job.

“Snowmobiling changes your whole view of winter,” says Chambers. “You’re hoping for snow when others are wishing it away. You don’t have to be cold if

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you dress properly and the trails are awesome if you love beautiful scenery. And there are places along the way to stop to eat and drink.

“Snowmobiling is a real adrenaline rush. You can go as fast or as slow as you want and the kids love it,” he says.

Learn more at oaksridgeriders.net.

You’ll also find maps, snowmobiling tips and information about trails, classes, future events, trips and relevant laws. The club also has a Facebook page. ❚

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Y O

Laura and John Fraser Collection Opens at RAM R

ockford Art Museum (RAM) opens new feature exhibition, The Laura and John Fraser Collection, on Friday, Feb. 9, with a preview reception for museum members from 5 to 7 p.m. It will include a gallery walk with the Frasers, followed by a free public opening from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at RAM, 711 N. Main St. The exhibition remains on view through May 28. The Laura and John Fraser Collection surveys one of the most recent major gifts to the RAM Permanent Collection in its entirety. The

Ellen Pettengell, Untitled (Mark & John) 1981.

Fraser Collection is a stellar compilation of 122 contemporary paintings, prints, drawings, mixed media, sculptures and ephemera by an international roster of 57 artists, including several local and regional artists.

“We’re happy to share this art with the city of Rockford and visitors to the museum,” the Frasers wrote. “We hope these pieces are a welcome learning activity for young and old, and that visitors find something new and exciting when viewing the work.”

Artists represented include John Andrews, Anne Bach, Nelleke Beltjens, Steven Beyer, Gerd Borkelmann, Betty Cleeland, Jeffery Cote de Luna, Gordon Dorn, Jacob El Hanani, Heide Fasnacht, Lynn Fischer-Carlson, Joyce Gelick, Dorothee Joachim, Vadim Katznelson, Wayne Kimball, Barbara Koenen, Robert McCauley, Erik Neff, Bob Nugent, John Pittman, Katy Pittman, Gordon Powell, Richard Rezac, Brigitte Riesebrodt, Cherri Rittenhouse, Yuko Sakurai, Re-

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Erik Neff, Pier, 2011.

becca Shore, Eric Snell, Buzz Spector, Mario Trejo, Richard Tuttle, and more.

Concurrent exhibitions on view at RAM include the 77th Young Artist Show (opens March 4) and additional selections from the Rockford Art Museum Collection.

The Laura and John Fraser Collection is organized by RAM and curated by RAM Curator Carrie Johnson. ❚

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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. ❚

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Healthy Pets Need Regular Grooming

By Peggy Werner

G

ood grooming for cats and dogs helps animals to feel better, and can even make them look fashionable.

Angie Johnson, owner of All Paws Beauty Salon and Day Care, 130 N. 1st St., in Rockford since 2006, has been in the pet grooming business most of her life. Her mom worked as a veterinarian technician and recruited her daughter’s help when needed.

Johnson also helps groom pets at no cost for Noah’s Ark, to help the animals get adopted.

Even if you want your animal to have long hair, it needs to be groomed on a regular schedule, year round. Toenails left untrimmed can cause a dog to have arthritis. Cat claws can grow too long and into the soft pads of their paws. And ear infections are reduced with regular cleaning.

“Not all animals are crazy about being groomed, but if they stay on a schedule,

they feel loved and cared for,” Johnson says, adding that a gentle massage while bathing an animal can help the pet relax.

Neglect hurts.

“If the hair gets all knotted up, it can be painful when brushed, and matted-up hair can cause skin irritations, which can lead to infection, because the skin is not able to breathe,” she says.

Regular grooming can also help pet owners feel their breed is trendy. For ex-

ample, a dog Mohawk cut is popular and only those breeds with thick, curly or wavy hair can pull it off.

The lion cut looks good on Persians, Himalayans and other long-haired cats.

When trimming the fur, Johnson leaves a “mane” around the neck, “boots” on its feet and a “poof” at the end of the tail.

Depending on the breed, grooming may be needed monthly or, at minimum, four times a year. ❚

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Y H

There are Many Options for Pain Relief

By Peggy Werner

A

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scott says he has helped hundreds of

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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.

March 15, 2018

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau NWQ_fall.indd 1

102 N. Main St.

CHICAGO FLOWER &

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Tourism

Attractions & Events

Chocolate Sundae Sunday Feb. 11, 2-4 p.m. Make a sundae while enjoying the tunes of Auburn’s Jazz Band; then create a Valentine card gorockford.com or craft. Discovery Rockford, IL 61101 1.800.521.0849 Center Museum, Rockford, (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

“In the Heights” Feb. 2-4, noon. Follow the many colorful residents of Washington Heights, a New York City neighborhood on the brink of change, how they struggle and come together to mourn their losses and rejoice in their triumphs.

Children’s/Youth Theater Project, Nordlof Center, Rockford, (920) 412-7151, ctpytp.org.

GARDEN SHOW

Murder at the Prop Table Feb. 2-11, Fri.-Sat., 7 p.m., Sun., 2 p.m. Take unhappily married co-stars in a play, add the playwright struggling to make a comeback with said play, and a challenged stage manager and you have the recipe for disaster with a splash of love, suspicion and one dead body. And, the critics are in the house. JPAC, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.

$69

Music on Main: Going Baroque Feb. 5, 5:30 p.m. Enjoy a true chamber music experience with Wayne Hatwhich playing harpsichord and Matt Guschl playing oboe.

MPAC, Mendelssohn Hall, Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.

per person

(includes transportation)

Space is limited.

Call to register!

815.387.9122

Dancing with the Stars Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m. Showcasing ballroom and contemporary dances from the hit TV show, including sizzling group numbers and original pieces. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

RCCA: Yamato – The Drummers of Japan Feb. 8, 7:30 p.m. This high-energy troupe of performers creates and presents original compositions, captivating the distinctive, exhilarating sound of taiko drums. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

“Don’t Drink the Water” Feb. 9-11 & 16-18, Fri.-Sat. 7 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m.

One hiding priest, a family of tourists running from the Communist police, a botched spy exchange and an incompetent son filling in for the American Ambassador in an unnamed European country behind the Iron Curtain provide the entertainment in this Woody Allen farce, which played on Broadway from 196668. Main Street Players, Community Building

Yamato --The Drummers of Japan will perform Feb. 8 at Coronado Performing Art Center.

Complex of Boone County, 111 W. 1st St., Belvidere, (800) 741-2963.

RSO: Classics 4: Beethoven Feb. 10, 7:30 p.m. Featuring Simón Gómez on percussion, with music from Prokofiev, Beethoven, James MacMillan and Kamyar Mohajer. Rockford Symphony Orchestra, CPAC, Rockford. Tickets: (815) 965-0049, rockfordsymphony.com..

PAW Patrol Live! Race to the Rescue Feb. 14, 10 a.m. & 6 p.m. Based on the hit preschool series, everyone’s favorite pups come to the stage for an action-packed, high-energy musical adventure. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

Justin Moore Feb. 15, 7:30 p.m. The Arkansas native is entertaining coast to coast with his “Hell on a Highway Tour.” BMO Harris Bank Center, (815) 968-5222, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com.

The Wonder Bread Years Feb. 17, 7:30 p.m. Former Seinfeld writer Pat Hazell stars in this comedic salute to baby boomers, who shared a childhood in a simpler time. JPAC, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.

Winner’s Recital Feb. 18, 3 p.m. Performances by young musicians who have won the Chandler Starr Miller Scholarship Competition. MPAC, Mendelssohn Hall, Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.

Richard III Feb. 22-25, Thu.-Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. The tale of a ruthless, power-crazed Machiavellian who lies and cheats his way to the highest seat in the land through charm, deception and force of presence. Maddox Theatre, Rockford University, Rockford, (815) 226-4100, rockford.edu. ❚

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WDL

Restaurant of the Week

Prairie Street Brewhouse

P

rairie Street Brewhouse., 200 Prairie St., Rockford, serves up delicious food, great beer, and a view of the Rock River.

The restaurant serves lunch and dinner seven days a week, with a rotating line-up of 16 craft beers on tap, all brewed on-site.

The restaurant and brewery are located inside an 85,000-square-foot multi-use venue that was home to the original Rockford Brewing Co., which operated from 1849-1939.

The brewery is a backdrop to the bar, which is made of reclaimed materials from the 1849 building. Restaurant decor features exposed original brick and ductwork. “It’s a mix of old and new, and people like the natural look of the original building, with the warmth of wood,” says Chris Manuel, vice president and co-owner of the business with Reed Sjostrom and Dustin Koch.

The menu features daily specials, and

appetizers such as shrimp & avocado ceviche, truffle fries, a hummus plate and Poutine, made with Yukon gold fries, screw city light braised pork belly, cheese curds and herbed bacon gravy.

Reed Sjostrom, Chris Manuel and Dustin Koch.

“Handhelds” are sandwiches like pulled pork, screw city light corned beef, turkey club, mint yogurt. For dessert, there’s a root beer and a BLT, which can be served with a half- float, pie in a pint, cheesecake of the day or pound beef patty, cherrywood bacon, and/ crème brûlée.

Come summertime, Dinner on the or duck bacon. In addition, there are soups and salads, sides like house-made chips Dock will be offered each Thursday from 5-10 p.m., with a special sandwich menu with sea salt and build-your-own pizzas.

Entrées include fish and chips, Medi- and live music from 6-9 p.m.

Prairie Street Brewhouse is open Sun.terranean beer chicken, ribeye steak, blackened bone-in pork chop, and Grilled Jail Wed., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thurs. to midnight; Island Salmon, served with coconut rice, and Fri.-Sat. to 2 a.m. For reservations, call curried cauliflower and peas and cucumber (815) 227-9427. ❚

In the Spotlight

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant  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.  Casual/American Café. Fresh, loBaci’s Kitchen  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  Casual/Italian. Stuffed pizza, salads, entrees, plete menu at Baciskitchen.com. sandwiches, desserts. 33 Executive Parkway, Rockford, (815) Big Papa’s Barbecue  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  Upscale-Casual/American contemporary. Sea10pm, Sun 11am-7pm. $. sonal cuisine; local-sourced ingredients; gourmet market; Bravo Pizza  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  Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., Free- Hearthrock Cafe  Restaurant/cafe. Baked goods, coffee, port, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. $-$$. breakfast, lunch. Inside Benson Stone Co., 1100 11th St., Ciao Bella Ristorante Upscale-Casual/Italian-American. Dai- Rockford, (815) 227-2000. BkL M-F 7:30am-3pm; Sat. 8amly specials. 6500 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, Ill. (815) 654- 3pm. $-$$.

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

Prairie Street Brewhouse  Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Costa’s Ristorante  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  Italian Bistro/Bakery 1620 Bell School Road, Taco Betty’s  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  Casual/Cafe. Salads, wraps, sandwiches, smoothies, cold-pressed juices. Inside Peak Fitness, 4401 Peak Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant  Casual/Mexican. AuthenDrive, Loves Park, Ill. BkLD M-F 6am-8pm, Sat 8am-2pm. ❚

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Alchemy

T

his trendy restaurant inside Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford, offers an out-of-the-ordinary experience in a big-city atmosphere.

“Alchemy has its own vibe and feel,” says Al Castrogiovanni, chef and founder. “I always had a vision and knew what I wanted to do. We do a lot of out-of-the-box thinking and customize everything.”

The full service bar features 36 craft beers on tap. Everything on the menu is made from scratch with fresh ingredients.

Pizzas made from handcrafted dough, with names like Chicago Dog and Thai Pie, are baked in a wood-fire oven. Classic fare includes pastas, soups, salads, burgers and sandwiches, all with a special twist, and daily specials.

Alchemy serves lunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Mon.-Fri.; and dinner 4-10 p.m. Mon.Thurs. and 4-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat. The bar is open later. ❚

(Blake Nunes photo)

By Peggy Werner

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Y M

Don’t Overpay Your Taxes W

ith tax season in full swing, take time to consider how to get the most out of your tax return. To start, learn the difference between tax credits and tax deductions. Tax credits reduce the amount you owe. Deductions, on the other hand, simply reduce your taxable income. Both can have a significant impact on your taxes and are often worth the extra effort to include on your return.

Commonly overlooked credits may include: Child and Dependent Care Credit Qualifying dependents include children under 13 and parents who are no longer able to care for themselves.

Earned Income Tax Credit This is a federal tax credit based on your income and the number of qualifying children living with you. Nearly 1 in 5 people who qualify fail to claim the credit. Just because you didn’t qualify last year doesn’t mean you won’t this year.

Saver’s Credit or the Retirement Savings Contributions Credit Even if it’s only $20 each pay cycle, put some money into a retirement fund. If your income is lower than $60,000, you can receive a credit of up to $1,000 for a contribution of up to $2,000 into an IRA or an employer-provided retirement account, such as a 401(k).

Some tax deductions that allow you to reduce your taxable income include: Moving Expenses. If you moved for a job that is at least 50 miles away and held this job for at least 39 weeks, you can claim your moving expenses even if you don’t itemize deductions.

New Moms. Breast pumps and lactation supplies are considered medical equipment, which means they qualify for a possible deduction.

Career Corner. You may be able to deduct some of the job-search expenses you incur. Costs such as preparing resumes,

creating and maintaining websites, business cards, agency fees and travel expenses may be eligible.

Wedding Bells. If you were married in a church or at a historical site during the past year, you may be able to deduct fees paid to the venue as a charitable donation.

Did You Know that the IRS, as well as many states, allows taxpayers to catch up on missed credits or deductions, offering a three-year window for filing an amended tax return?

Find more tax tips at JacksonHewitt. com/tax-help/. ❚ (Source: Family Features; Photo: Getty Images)

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