Smart Living Weekly - February 3, 2016

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@ 14 w s ge No od pa e gs Se in Fo av t S ’s Ge ay

n iving g Smart L ivi ivin ng Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Beloit Freeport 95¢ • Feb. 3, 2016

™

Right in Our Region

Disney on Ice Returns with ‘Treasure Trove’

By Sarah Soenke, deputy editor

T

he Disney Vault allows just a few of its films onto store shelves year-to-year, but there’s a new opportunity to relive your favorite Disney moments all at once. More than 70 years of Disney animation will come to life on the ice rink of the BMO Harris Bank Center from Feb. 25-28, as “Disney on Ice: Treasure Trove” makes

its only Illinois stop on its U.S. tour.

The near two-hour spectacular, presented by Stonyfield YoKids Organic Yogurt, combines snapshots of some of Disney’s most cherished animated films, strung together with colorful costumes, dazzling lights and theatrical stunts on the ice.

Continued on p. 20

Live a Better Quality of Life Reading & Using Smart Living Weekly Proudly Serving the Needs of 326,000 Neighbors - For Your Home, Health & Fun! How to Choose a Mattress • Healthful Chocolate Milk Smoothies • Measuring Your Fitness Level A Visit to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Academy • Events for Family Fun!

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• Five pairs of tickets to Beloit International Film Festival showings* • One-night stay at the Ironworks Hotel** • $100 gift card to Merrill & Houstonʼs Steak Joint * Tickets may be used at any BIFF showing when seating is available.

Find information on venues and showtimes at www.beloitfilmfest.org. * * Overnight is good for Friday, February 19th or Saturday, February 20th only.

View hotel accommodations at www.ironworkshotel.com.

Winner will be selected on Friday, February 12th.

Now in its eleventh year, BIFF is a ten-day tribute to the power and excitement of independent film from around the world. Residents and visitors from across the nation fill venues in Downtown Beloit to experience more than 100 films and meet filmmakers who come from as far away as Europe, Asia and South America! Tickets are available at www.beloitfilmfest.org.

•••••••••

Enter online at http://ow.ly/Xfd7A or complete the form below and mail to: Visit Beloit, Attn: Film Fest • 500 Public Ave., Beloit, WI 53511 Name ___________________________________ Email ___________________________________ Phone ___________________________________ www.visitbeloit.com 608.365.4838

*All forms must be postmarked by Feb. 9th, 2016 Smart Living Weekly

Feb. 3

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 22 Disney on Ice Treasure Trove Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 How to Choose a Mattress Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 All One in Christ Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Delicious, Nutritious Chocolate Milk Smoothies New You for 2016 ..............................................17 What’s Your Fitness Plan?

Your Health ............................................. .......... 25 Treatment for Varicose Veins Your Fun ................................................... ......... 27

Wedding Guide ................................................. 29 Elegant Cliffbreakers Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 29

Education Focus .............................................. .33 Spectrum Progressive School

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

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

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

Copyright 2016 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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Feb. 3

No Place Like Home

M

y hubby and I recently spent a long weekend in Manhattan, chasing away winter doldrums with spectacular art and culture. We took in Broadway shows (see “Hamilton” if you can! It’s coming to Chicago!). We soaked up Renoir, Monet and Rodin at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. We reflected on 9-11 at the new One World Trade Center (Can you believe it’s been 15 years?), rode the subway to Greenwich Village, ogled enormous digital billboards at Times Square, watched skaters at Rockefeller Center, rode a carriage through Central Park. And, we just walked the streets and observed.

Brands like Walgreens, Starbucks and Macy’s are there, of course, but it’s the locally owned shops, food carts, delicatessens, galleries and restaurants that are New York City’s heartbeat. Natives and tourists alike stand 50 deep to buy a bagel at Ess-a-Bagel on 3rd Avenue; little restaurants like Scarlatto’s on 47th overflow by 5:30 p.m. A sense of shared identity binds New Yorkers tightly together. For better and worse, this city is run by and for New Yorkers. They love it not because it’s problem-free, but because it’s theirs.

And so it should be for us here in Rockford. We share a history, and it’s an impressive one. We have problems, but we have strengths, too – so many. (For starters, we don’t have to pay $20 for a hamburger or $7,000 a month for a studio apartment.)

For the first time in a long time – since before chain stores and malls diminished our unique identity, back in the 1970s – there’s growing excitment about our downtown.

Niches are again being carved out by Rockford people for Rockford people. Now we need only to support these endeavors. We’re on the right track.

NYC is terrific, but it always feels great to come home. Now if I could only find a great bagel in Rockford. Any suggestions?

Have a great week, Rockford! ❚

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How to Choose a Mattress

Y H  G

By Janine Pumilia, managing editor

H

ave you ever wandered through a sea of mattresses and felt overwhelmed by all the choices?

As store manager of the new 6651 E. State St. location of Gustafson’s Furniture & Mattress, Mitchell Johnson knows it happens. Over the decades, he has matched thousands of customers to thousands of mattresses.

“Every mattress is a white rectangle, so how do you tell them apart?” he says.

“I advise people to buy the best you can afford and to buy for comfort, not durability.”

There’s simply no such thing as a mattress that will last 20 years, at any price point, says Johnson, so don’t believe a sales pitch that says otherwise.

“Think of a mattress as you would a car tire. Buy it, use it, replace it when it wears out. Eight to 10 years is the best you can expect from any mattress.”

Today’s mattresses use memory foam, gel and other technologies to provide superb body support. There’s no one mattress that’s right for everyone.

“You really have to lay on a mattress to figure out what feels good to you,” says Johnson. He recently helped to design a new tool developed by the Dr. Scholls company that will help customers nationwide to better understand their mattress preferences. Customers will spend seven minutes lying on a specially equipped mattress. As various adjustments are made, they’ll rate their comfort levels. When done, they receive a recommendation for one of five categories of mattresses that best suits their tastes.

“It’s a state-of-the-art tool that will eliminate a lot of the guesswork,” says Johnson. Gustafson’s is one of only 10 stores nationwide that will receive the new tool this spring.

Both locations of Gustafson’s Furniture & Mattress offer mattresses by Tempur-Pedic, Serta, Mattress 1st, Aireloom and more.

Along with good support, many people want a bed they can adjust.

“Millennials like to sit up in bed and work on laptops, etc., and older people have always valued adjustable beds,” Johnson explains. The original store is located at 808 W. Riverside Blvd., Rockford. ❚

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I  W

Doors Wide Open

W

hen Jesus came into the world, he preached primarily to the nation of Israel. After his resurrection, and before his ascension to heaven, however, he instructed his 11 remaining disciples (Judas had killed himself by then) to share the good news of salvation with all people of the earth. This is known as “the great commission.”

“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’” (Matthew 28:18-20.)

Imagine the shock and resentment some Jewish Christians must have felt when they learned God had thrown the doors wide open to invite all people who believed to receive eternal life. After all, it was the Jews who had protected Hebrew tradition for many centuries, often enduring cruel persecution for their efforts. They alone had been God’s chosen people and had resisted the societal pressures to worship multiple gods.

No one was more deeply aware of this than Paul, who had once climbed the ranks of Jewish leadership and even persecuted Christians. But he wrote to the young church at Galatia, “There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28) Jesus defied many other social norms as well, when he showed compassion to people his society most despised: the sick, weak, young, poor and outcast. He even called a tax collector to be a disciple.

God’s ways are not man’s ways. “ Many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first.” (Matthew 19:30).

It’s little wonder that Jesus’ message of salvation offended so many stakeholders – and still does today, as we struggle to see others as Christ sees them.

“For you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28) Do we really believe it? ❚ – Janine Pumilia 12

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Feb. 3

HEAR Better in 2016!

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Y K

4 Nutritious Reasons to Drink Chocolate Milk Fuel Up Smoothie C

hocolate milk is more than just a sweet treat. The drink you enjoyed as a kid actually has many nutritious benefits, in addition to its delicious, chocolatey taste.

Nutrition experts recommend adults consume three servings of milk products a day, as milk is one of the top sources for essential nutrients – calcium, vitamin D, potassium, protein and more. Meeting these daily needs by consuming foods rich in calcium, such as low-fat chocolate milk, can help to build strong, healthy bones and, as part of a well-balanced diet, may reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

It’s a great workout recovery drink, too. Studies have shown that low-fat chocolate milk’s unique blend of carbohydrate and protein is ideal for replenishing tired muscles. Its high water content also replaces fluids and electrolytes lost during exercise, making it a perfect delicious pick-me-up.

Serves: 1

Main Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups TruMoo Calcium Plus lowfat chocolate milk • 1/2 cup baby kale • 1 cup ice cubes • 1 tablespoon almond butter

Directions: In blender, combine chocolate milk, baby kale, ice cubes and almond butter. Blend until smooth and frothy.

Serve.

Chocolate Berry Blast Smoothie Serves: 1

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup TruMoo Calcium Plus low-fat chocolate milk • 1 cup frozen mixed berries • 1 tablespoon golden flaxseed meal

Directions: In blender, combine chocolate milk, frozen mixed berries and flaxseed meal.

Blend until smooth and frothy. Serve. ❚ Source: Family Features

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Feb. 3

A N Y  

Peak Fitness: You CAN Improve Your Health

By Peggy Werner

I

t’s that time of year when we get bombarded with “quick fix” messages from every direction on how to get that perfectly fit and low-fat body – sooner than later.

The only problem is that it doesn’t work that way.

Nick Dal Pra, Peak Fitness and Sports Club Training Director, says that transforming one’s body takes time, commitment, and a plan of action.

Peak offers a free fitness consultation to all new members and to those who want to freshen up a tired workout.

The one-hour meeting includes a body fat measurement, nutrition information, a review of health history, goal setting for health, start-up recommendations and eight exercises to assess one’s physical fitness in the areas of range of motion, mobility and basic strength. It’s also an

opportunity to talk about working with a personal trainer and to learn how that can help you reach your fitness goals.

“The session helps new people to get acquainted with Peak and reduces their anxiety about working out,” Dal Pra explains.

“Peak is a big place and it can be intimidating, but once you have a purpose and a plan, it’s the best place to be,” he says.

A good workout includes aerobics for the heart and lungs, strength training for muscles and bones, and stretching and flexibility to help with balance and core strength. Fitness is also about eating properly and giving the body the rest it needs, he says.

Those new to the gym need to start out with an easy plan and challenge themselves as their abilities increase. A work-

out is made more difficult by increasing time, intensity, and frequency – but not all at once. People with health problems or injuries don’t have to avoid the gym.

Workouts can be designed to protect areas of weakness while promoting healing and building overall strength, he says.

For more information on Peak Fitness and Sports Club or to schedule a fitness consultation, call (815) 877-4401. ❚

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Gustafson’s West Serving Our Hometown Since 1928

Tax Time Sale!

36 Mon ths

0% Inter est 808 W. Riverside Boulevard • 815-636-8608

*

WAS $1219 NOW $999

“Moreno Valley” Table W/ 6 Chairs WAS $1989 NOW $1699

Table W/ 4 Chairs WAS $579 NOW $449

S

Queen Bed WAS $349 NOW $249

Rustic Queen Bed WAS $889 NOW $799

Custom Queen Bed WAS $989 NOW $899 Customize your way!

W

Lane “Champion Camel” Recliner $499 IN STOCK

Here is a Peek Inside the Front Doors of Gustafson’s East 18

Shop Both of Our Locations Today!

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Feb. 3

Open 24/7 on the Web! • gustafsonfurniture.com

!

Gustafson’s East

W NE

Now Open!

6651 East State Street • 815-636-8608

Sofa WAS $1939 NOW $1699

WAS $949 NOW $879 Available In 21 Custom Fabrics!

Sectional WAS $3229 NOW $2999

Power Double Reclining Sofa WAS $2179 NOW $1999

WAS $679 NOW $589 Available In 3 Colors!

“Challenger” Power Double Reclining Sofa WAS $3229 NOW $2899

Trina & Dale Welcome You to Shop Gustafson’s 206,000+ sq. ft. of Home Furnishings & Save!

36 Months 0% Interest* at Both Locations Smart Living Weekly

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

Feb. 3

19

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

CREATIVE CHOICES

SALE

Sale Prices Good through 2/10/16

Leather Recliners

2 for 1

SALE! Displayed At Both Locations.

Displayed At Both Locations.

Available In 3 Colors. 2 for Two Recliners, One Low Price

Swivel Chairs Was $699

549 each

Area Rugs 20

Queen Headboard

Starting At

Smart Living Weekly

99 Feb. 3

Now 149 Displayed At Both Locations.

999

Queen Headboards

Your Choice:

Now 179

Displayed At Both Locations.

808 W. Riverside & 6651 East State Street • Rockford, IL • 815.636.8608 • www.gustafsonfurniture.com

| Sun 12-5pm | Open 24 Hours on the Web | Find Us on Facebook

40 Off %

All Jewelry Armoires

Now 399

Modern Sofa Bed. Was $509 Displayed At East State Location.

Displayed At Riverside Location.

Displayed At Riverside Location.

Reclining Sofa or Love Seat Displayed At Riverside Location.

Available in 3 Colors.

699 each

FREE BOXSPRING SALE

Queen Adjustable Base w/"Napton Firm" Mattress Was $1339 Displayed At Both Locations.

Now 999

ULTRA COMFORT

LIFT CHAIR

588

*Photos for illustration only. Not responsible for typographical errors.

We reserve the right not to honor any incorrect pricing.

GUSTAFSON'S FURNITURE NOW HAS TWO LOCATIONS:

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STARTING AT Buy a Twin/Full/ Queen for

199

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Over 3,000 Mattresses in the Store!

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6651 E. State Street in Rockford

808 W. Riverside in Rockford

www.gustafsonfurniture.com | 815.636.8608

Smart Living Weekly Feb. 3 21 We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. Interest free financing available on purchases over $2000 to qualified buyers. See store for details. 60 Day lay-a-way.

R  O R

Disney on Ice Continued from Cover

“Disney on Ice: Treasure Trove” brings together the legacy of Disney animated films from its first film, ‘Snow White,’ to its latest film, ‘Tangled,’” says Jonna Malinowski, ensemble skater. “There’s a story included in Treasure Trove for every generation. We get to see every age group in the audience – it’s not just for kids. This show brings out so many adults, grandparents and teenagers alike.”

Eight principal skaters and 16 ensemble skaters work together to weave a magical medley of the most iconic scenes through awe-inspiring jumps, spins and lifts. Disney on Ice skaters include some of the world’s leading athletes, allowing new forms of visual storytelling with unique choreography, special effects and more than 200 costumes. It’s all meant to celebrate the best of Disney’s tales in a

reimagined and exciting format.

“As an ensemble skater, I get to perform in almost every aspect of the show,” Malinowski says. “There are so many different colored lights and costumes for all the numbers. Audience members can even expect to see some special characters flying during certain scenes.”

It all begins with an interactive opener, led by Woody, Jessie and Buzz from “Toy Story.” Performers invite the crowd to get up and participate in a warm-up from their seats during the “YeeHaw Dance,” says Malinowski, to kickstart the high energy of the ice show.

From there, audience members are

guided from one movie to the next by Disney’s most famous songs and characters, including the Disney princesses.

Each number is completely different from the rest with diverse set designs and contemporary dance moves, says Malinowski, all to keep viewers at the edge of their seats the entire time. Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy will make appearances

Women in Paleontology MARCH Satheve 11th - 13th ! e t a D 2016

Mary Anning was an early 19th centu century fossil hunter and paleontologist who became famous for finding important fossils that shaped our knowledge of earth history. She discovered the first Plesiosaurus, the first ichthyosaur specimens, and the first British pterosaur. Mary was a pioneer in the field of paleontology. paleontolog 22

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R  O R in between scenes from “The Little Mermaid,” “Cinderella,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “Mulan,” “Peter Pan,” The Lion King,” “Alice in Wonderland,” “The Princess and the Frog” and more. Keep an eye out for Malinowski during the “Prince Ali” performance from “Aladdin,” as it’s one of her personal favorites of the show.

“Each part tells a Disney animated

story from the character’s point of view, so Peter Pan tells his story, Alice in Wonderland tells her story and so on,” she says. “It’s all about bringing the movies to life on the ice for people to re-experience again.”

For Malinowski, the Rockford performances are more than just another stop along the tour. The Lyons, Ill., native is excited to perform for fans as well as her home state family and friends during the weekend.

“So many people I know are coming out for this show in Rockford,” she says. “My mom is bringing some coworkers, and I’ll get to see my dad, my friends and other family members.

I’m very excited about the Rockford shows.”

Malinowski has been with Disney on Ice since she graduated high school, joining the company at the age of 18.

Even though it’s now her ninth year, she says each show is so different and new that she’s always kept on her toes

as a performer.

“Treasure Trove is really just a fun, high-energy show. The audience will definitely leave with a smile,” she says. “It’s all about coming in, forgetting everything out in the world for a few hours and just being happy and entertained.”

Tickets for the show start at $15. All seats are reserved and can be purchased online or by calling 1-800-745-3000. For more information, visit thebmoharrisbankcenter.com. ❚

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Feb. 3

Y H

Advancements in Vein Treatment Offer Relief B y To n i R o c h a

I

n America, varicose veins affect 50 to 55 percent of women and 40 to 45 percent of men. Yet varicose veins have been taken for granted as part of the aging process. The truth is, anyone at any age can develop varicose veins, as a result of valve failure that can occur because of leakage, calcification or other causes.

For Dr. Rimas Gilvydis, a fascination with computerized, minimally invasive medical procedures, coupled with a family history of varicose veins, resulted in the founding of the Northern Illinois Vein Clinic, in the Renaissance Pavillion at 1340 Charles St., Ste. 404, Rockford.

Northern Illinois Vein Clinic will offer free vein disease screenings on Feb. 8 & 23. Schedule your screening appointment online at niveinclinic.com, or call (877) 999-7912.

We’re bringing remarkable care home to you...

Residency: Orthopaedic Surgery, Northwestern University/ McGaw Medical Center, Chicago, IL, 2014

Here, patients of all ages find state-ofthe-art help.

Gilvydis became interested in specialized treatments for varicose veins during his interventional radiology fellowship at Chicago’s Rush-PresbyterianSt. Luke’s Medical Center, now called Rush University Medical Center. His fellowship class was the first to be introduced to a new minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins.

“At that time, the treatment included only radiofrequency ablation of varicose veins,” he says. “Since I had a significant amount of varicose veins myself, I instantly became very interested in learning this new treatment.”

Today, he performs endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) surgery, the very latest minimally invasive treatment available.

Gilvydis began performing radiofrequency ablation treatments in SwedishAmerican Hospital’s cath lab.

Encouraged by the excellent outcomes and a growing patient referral base, he opened a dedicated outpatient vein clinic where he could concentrate on varicose vein treatment.

“I visited numerous other vein clinics that were run by very well-known physicians in the field,” he says. “I then took the positives from each of these clinics and developed what has turned out to be a very comprehensive and progressive vein clinic. Initially, the clinic was open just one day a week. That quickly expanded to five days a week, because of our successful outcomes.” ❚

Welcome

Jamie Frantz, MD Sports Medicine/ Orthopaedic Surgery Dr. Frantz joins the Beloit Health System from Birmingham, AL. Dr. Frantz will be treating a wide range of orthopaedic conditions and injuries, with a special emphasis in the evaluation, prevention and treatment of sports and exerciserelated injuries.

Dr. Frantz is currently accepting new patients.

Fellowship: Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Fellowship, American Sports Medicine Institute/Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center, Birmingham, AL, 2015

Frantz Welcome Northwest Quarterly.indd 1

Beloit Clinic 1905 E. Huebbe Pkwy., Beloit, WI

ph (608) 364-2200

5605 E. Rockton Rd., Roscoe, IL

ph (815) 525-4500

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10/2/15 Feb. 3

9:55 AM25

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Y F

Crowns: The Gospel Musical Feb. 3-13, Wed., Thu., Fri. 8 p.m.; Sat. & Sun. 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. The story follows Yolonda, a proud, tough girl from Brooklyn who moves to South Carolina after the shooting of her brother.

Studio Theatre at Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford, (815) 921-2160, rockvalleycollege.edu/community/theatre.

Jackie Cruz: "Cruzing Through Adversity" Feb. 3, 1:30 p.m., 1 p.m. doors. Jackie Cruz, best known for her breakout role as 'Flaca' on the Netflix Original Series "Orange is the New Black," shares her inspirational story. Student Center Atrium at Rock Valley College, Rockford, (815) 921-4183, rockvalleycollege.edu.

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

Movies on Main: "The Princess and the Frog" Feb. 5, 7 p.m., doors 6:30 p.m. A waitress, desperate to fulfill her dreams as a restaurant owner, is set on a journey to turn a frog prince back into a human, but she has to face the same problem after she kisses him. The Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 9876660, rockfordpubliclibrary.org.

The Element Film Series: "The One I Love" Feb. 5, 7:30 p.m., doors 7 p.m. A couple seeks the advice of a counselor in an attempt to save their marriage. The counselor sends them on a getaway where the couple encounters darkly comical events. Riverfront Museum Park, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, facebook.com/ theelementrockford.

Country musician Lee Brice performs with Tyler Farr at BMO Harris Bank Center Feb. 12.

Jabali African Acrobats Feb. 6, 1 p.m. & 4 p.m. shows. Back by popular demand, these phemonmenal acrobats combine the artistry of fast-paced movement, dance and acrobatic excellence to perform a full-stage theatrical cirque extravaganza. Nordlof Center, Rockford, (815) 987-6660, rockfordpubliclibrary. org.

RCCA: The Band of The Royal Marines & The Scots Guards Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m. Excelling at musical quality, visual grandeur and precision drill, the band’s repertoire includes popular classics, Big Band, contemporary works and solo features.

Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 847-6314, rccaconcerts.org.

Rock Valley Cat Club Cat Show Feb. 6-7, Sat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Sun. 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

The 60th annual Champion and Household Pet Show features many breeds of cats being judged concurrently in four rings. Forest Hills Lodge, 1601 W. Lane Road, Loves Park, Ill., acfacat.com.

Tracking, Scat and Signs Feb. 6, 10 a.m.-noon. See what the animals are up to by learning how to read their trails. Big Hill Center, 1201 W. Big Hill Road, Beloit, (608) 3611377, weltycenter.org.

"The Funny Story Behind the Funny Stories" Feb. 8, 7 p.m. Rockford University Forum Series presents Scott Dikkers telling the tale of his beginnings in comedy and getting The Onion started, while sharing funny stories about how he struggled in the early years. Rockford University, Maddox Theatre, 5050 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 226-4100, rockford.edu/artslectures/ forum.

Katie's Cup Music Series: Cheryl and the Down Home Boys Feb. 6, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Enjoy live music in a comfortable setting. Food and beverages available for purchase. Katie's Cup, 502 7th St., Rockford, (815) 986-0628, katiescup.com.

Lee Brice: Life Off My Years Tour Feb. 12, 7:30 p.m. The “evocative, roughedged” country singer and musical compadre Tyler Farr take the stage. BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford, (815) 968-5600, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com. ❚

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Restaurant of the Week

Rockford Brewing Co.

By Peggy Werner

he Rockford Brewing Co., 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 lineup of 16 craft beers on tap, all brewed on-site.

The restaurant and brewery are located inside the 85,000-square-foot Prairie Street Brewhouse, a 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. Decor includes 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 of Rockford Brewing Co., and coowner of the business with Reed Sjostrom

Top Picks for Local Restaurants

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, Reed Sjostrom, Chris Manuel and Dustin Koch. screw city light braised pork belly, cheese curds and herbed bacon gravy. curried cauliflower and peas and cucumber “Handhelds” are sandwiches like pulled mint yogurt. For dessert, there’s a root beer pork, screw city light corned beef, turkey float, pie in a pint, cheesecake of the day or club, and a BLT, which can be served with crème brûlée. a half-pound beef patty, cherrywood bacon, Come summer, Dinner on the Dock will and/or duck bacon. Too, there are build- be offered each Thursday from 5-10 p.m., your-own pizzas, soups and salads, and with a special sandwich menu and live sides like house-made chips with sea salt. music from 6-9 p.m.

Entrées include fish and chips, MediRockford Brewing Co. is open Sun.terranean beer chicken, ribeye steak, black- Wed., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thurs. to midnight; ened bone-in pork chop, and Grilled Jail and Fri.-Sat. to 2 a.m. For reservations, call Island Salmon, served with coconut rice, (815) 227-9427. ❚

(Blake Nunes photo)

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

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

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

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

Big Papa’s BBQ E Casual. Exceptional dishes made with proprietary BBQ sauces. 8660 N. 2nd St., Machesney Park; (815) 877-7422. LD Mon-Sat 11am-9pm, Sun. 8am-8pm. $-$$.

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

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

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

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

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

Extensive wine list; daily specials. 6500 E. Riverside, Loves Park, (815) 654-9900. LD M-F 11am-9pm, Sat 5-9pm, Sun 4-7:30pm.

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

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

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

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

JMK Nippon Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar E Upscale28

Smart Living Weekly

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Cannova’s

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

Today, their granddaughter, Linda, and her husband, Patrick Beckman, carry on the tradition, at 1101 W. Empire St. 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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Cliffbreakers Offers Elegance, River Views

By Janine Pumilia, managing editor

A

mong many fine wedding venues in the Rockford region is Cliffbreakers Riverside Resort, 700 W. Riverside Blvd., known for its scenic location, beautiful antiques and four large ballrooms, each with shimmering crystal chandeliers, grand fireplaces and open-air decks overlooking the Rock River.

With 105 guest rooms, full dining and bar services and many pretty backdrops for photographs, a Cliffbreakers wedding is easy to plan and manage.

“Everything is included, such as standard table linens, champagne toasts, chairs and flatware,” says Rodney Robinson, director of sales. “We also work with Event Floral if couples want specialty items. We offer complementary tastings, so couples can choose exactly what cuisine will be served to their guests. Depending on the package, they

may also have the use of Excalibur, our beautiful vintage limousine.”

Cliffbreakers easily handles large weddings, thanks to its flexible ballrooms that can seat up to 1,200 guests.

Room blocks may be rented, making it easy for guests to stay up late and celebrate.

“People really enjoy the lighted outdoor decks overlooking the Rock River,” says Robinson. “They also like the way we set up bars in the ballrooms but also have the main bar down the hall, where you can go have a drink with that old friend you run into at the wedding.”

The owners are in the process of making major upgrades to the property. The ballrooms have all been freshly painted, refinished and carpeted; their adjoining lighted decks have been replaced as needed, painted and refinished. Guest rooms are being renovated, too, and

upgraded to offer HD television and charging stations for electronics. When all other work is finished, new flooring will be laid throughout all hallways.

There’s no other location quite like Cliffbreakers, says Robinson. “We’re the only local venue that offers river views and open-air decks from every ballroom.

It’s a very special place.”

To learn more, call Julie Rieker, (815) 282-3033 or go to cliffbreakersevents.com. ❚

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Feb. 3

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Pricing Selling The Most Powerful Tool For Buying Your Next Home The Gambino Realtors Mobile App! Access to the most comprehensive and accurate real estate listings is now at your fingertips.

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Type in Gambino Realtors and download.

1.815.282.2222

Mortgage Advisor 15 Yr Fixed

Lenders Byron Bank

Rate

byronbank.com

APR*

(815) 234-2561 Mo. Payment*

30 Yr Fixed

30 Yr Jumbo FHA/VA & ARM

2.860%

3.620%

3.375%

$974.51

$649.47

$641.01

3.238%

4.155%

4.421%

Please Call

Smart Living Weekly Magazine’s Mortgage Advisor is intended to provide you with a guide to securing the mortgage you seek. Quoted rates are supplied by the institutions (as of Feb. 1, 2016) and can change daily. Interest rates and monthly payment installments are based on a $150,000 loan with a 5% down payment and 0 points; FHA with a 3.5% down payment and 0 points. APR is based on a good faith estimate of prepaid finance charges. Your APR will vary according to the specifics of your transactions. Contact the bank, credit union or S&L directly for their most current rates. The mortgage rate you obtain will be based upon your credit rating, loan amount and standing with that particular financial institution. * APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Mo. Payment = The monthly principal and interest payment.

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A Visit to Spectrum Progressive School S

pectrum Progressive School, 2909 N. Main St., Rockford, is focused on deeper learning and incorporates these main initiatives: • Teachers provide materials, but students choose how they’re used.

• Time is allowed for thoughtful planning and reflection.

• Children work in teams to learn how to collaborate and compromise.

• Successes and mistakes are celebrated.

• Children can show knowledge through many avenues.

Spectrum Progressive students are active all day long. They are planning, working, reflecting and genuinely engaged in their learning.

At younger levels, students have work time every day. They have a choice in the area in which they work and with whom they work. Teachers circulate throughout the classrooms encouraging students to expand their play and solve problems diplomatically.

Reviewing the work is also important. Students as young as three years old discuss what they did (or didn’t) accomplish during work time and how any issues with sharing, personal space or things not going as he/she planned were resolved.

At the higher levels, students participate in project-based challenges. Teachers introduce a topic, such as Greek Mythology, and students then pursue an area within the topic that interests them. Students spend a few weeks investigating and learning about the area they choose, such as myths, goddesses, Greek history, architecture or culture, and become expert on the subject. They then share their knowledge with the class independently or with a small group via a video, PowerPoint presentation, rap song, skit, or monologue. Sharing may also include a museum-style display of work to students at

other levels, as well as to parents.

It’s likely that many jobs parents have now will be taken over by computers by the time their children are ready to enter the workforce. Spectrum Progressive prepares students for the next generation of work – one that requires critical and creative thinking – in a warm and happy environment. ❚

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Experience Downtown Rockford

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Issue 1