Smart Living Weekly - April 8, 2015

Save Smarter • Live Better • Rockford Region/Beloit 95¢ • April 8, 2015

™

Right in Our Region

‘Many Faces, One Community’ Now Complete at Midway Village Museum

By Janine Pumilia, executive editor

T

he reasons for leaving their homelands were many: famine, war, poverty, birth order. (After all, a third or fourth son wouldn’t inherit much of the family farm.)

Some came to Rockford, Ill., on purpose; others just rode a train until it stopped here.

They spoke many languages and their ideas about life weren’t always compatible. But

they shared one thing in common: they were the immigrants who shaped our community.

In its largest and most ambitious exhibit to date, Midway Village Museum helps us to understand their experiences, in “Many Faces, One Community,” a 14-year project that is now complete.

Continued on p. 20

• Get All the SAVINGS You Deserve from Local Businesses

How to Choose a Photographer • Take Care of Your Feet • How is Your Financial Literacy?

Gluten-free Breakfast Sandwiches • Tour Local Homes with ‘Unique Spaces’ • When DIY is a Bad Idea

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ge at i pa ay m e Pl o Se & at ay St taw Po

iving ng Sm mart a r t L ivi ivin Weekly

Bank at a Credit Union?

That’s Money Smart!

We invite you to take advantage of the FREE financial education programs offered in our community, including our sponsored events:

Sat., April 18 9:00am - 12noon

“MACU Shred Day & Goodwill Drive”

Free, secure on-site shredding of unwanted personal documents + accepting small household items only (NO TVs/lg. appliances/furniture) ~ 2 boxes per person only, please co-sponsored by Better Business Bureau, Paper Recovery & Goodwill Industries location: MembersAlliance CU, 2550 S. Alpine Rd. (by drive up) - Rockford Wed., April 22 11:30am-12:30pm OR 6:00-7:00pm

“Identity Theft: The Rest of the Story! Be Informed and Prepared!”

ID theft is a multi-faceted problem. Get tips and services to minimize your risk. presented by Landshark Solutions location: MembersAlliance CU, 2550 S. Alpine Rd.- Rockford Thurs., April 23 6:00 - 7:30pm

“Retirement Planning 101”

What you need to know if you are planning to retire in the next 3 years. presented by Klaas Financial inc. location: MembersAlliance CU, 2550 S. Alpine Rd.- Rockford Sat., April 25 12:30 - 2:30pm

“Teen Financial Reality Fair”

a fun, interactive “real life” financial management activity for students age 13-18 presented by the Rockford Area Chapter of Credit Unions location: Rockford Public Library East Branch, 6685 E. State St. (RSVP required! contact ahauck@membersalliance.org) For details, visit membersalliance.org View the full calendar of events @ moneysmartweek.org

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 20 New Midway Village Museum Exhibit Finished Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Home Energy Upgrades Add Comfort, Security Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 From Easter to Pentacost Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Gluten-free Breakfast Treats Your Outings .....................................................17 Junior League of Rockford’s ‘Unique Spaces’ Your Health ............................................. .......... 25 Take Care of Your Feet Your Fun ................................................... ......... 27 Restaurant of the Week ................................... 29 Alchemy Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 29 Tips ........................................................... ......... 31 Choosing a Photographer Your Money .............................................. ......... 33 Are You Financially Literate?

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes Executive Editor Janine Pumilia

Managing Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Associate Editor/Special Projects Editor Karla Nagy 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 Executive Brian Hughes Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Website www.NWQSmartLiving.com Published by Hughes Media Corp.

728 N. Prospect St., Rockford, IL, 61107 (815) 316-2300, Fax: (815) 316-2301 lhughes@northwestquarterly.com Smart Living Weekly.

Copyright 2015 by Hughes Media Corp., 728 N. Prospect St., Rockford, IL, 61107. 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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Strong Shoulders

I

recently had the pleasure of touring the newly completed “Many Faces, One Community” Exhibit at Midway Village Museum. What fun! If you haven’t been there yet, put it on your spring list of visits to make. The museum staff, board and donors who made this possible have given us a precious gift that many communities don’t have – the opportunity to glimpse where we came from, documented by responsible research.

Every community is shaped by a particular set of people who came together in one location for various reasons. In Rockford’s case, Swedish immigrants formed the foundation of our society, bringing a unique set of business skills, craftsmanship talents and work ethics with them from their homeland.

They established the first churches, schools, and factories here; they took us from settlement to thriving local economy. But they weren’t alone.

Succeeding waves of our immigrant ancestors enriched the vitality of our city in their own ways as they sought to carve out new lives for themselves. “Many Faces, One Community” does a great job of zeroing in on individual stories representing many kinds of experiences that add up to what we now call “Rockford.”

These immigrants faced so many obstacles, from language barriers to prejudices of people who arrived before them. Some gave up and went back to their homelands. Many didn’t even survive the trip to America.

Those who did persist have much to teach us, both from their successes and their failures. And the story is ongoing; today’s immigrants face many of the same hardships.

The museum does a nice job of making the exhibit interesting to various age groups.

It’s good to remind ourselves, and our children, that we stand on the shoulders of many people who came before us.

This exhibit makes it easy to do just that.

Have a great week! ❚ Janine Pumilia Executive Editor Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

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B U L C S ’ R E Y A L P

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Y H  G

Home Energy Upgrades Add Comfort, Security B y K a r l a N a g y, a s s o c i a t e e d i t o r

H

omeowners who experience cold drafts or cold rooms in winter and excessive heat and dust in summer may think they need new windows; those with damp spots, moisture buildup or water stains on ceilings often call a roofer. These problems may involve not just one component but areas throughout the home, which will be revealed with a Home Energy Assessment.

“These are all symptoms of a home that isn’t energy-efficient,” says Austin Carr, owner of Greenlink Energy Solutions of Rockford.

“In that case, an energy assessment will identify deficiencies the homeowners are unaware of – air leakage, faulty or inefficient mechanicals and appliance performance. We look at every aspect of the home, not just the windows or roof or HVAC units.”

This whole-house approach is called Home Performance, which takes the entire home and all of its systems into account.

A standard assessment includes an interview with the client and a complete visual inspection of the home, inside and out, including thermal imaging. A more thorough diagnosis involves the use of specialized equipment. The blower door test removes pressure from inside the home and uses an infrared camera to record air leakage.

“Homes have a natural pressure boundary, or envelope,” Carr explains. “Low or negative pressure creates suction, pulling in cold air.

High or positive pressure pushes out the warm air. It’s a revolving cycle. Air that you pay to condition is escaping, all day, every day.”

Combustion analysis is also performed.

“We use a combustion analyzer to determine that all combustion appliances – gas stoves, dryers, furnaces – are burning safely and efficiently and venting properly to rid the home of carbon dioxide.”

The homeowner then receives a full report of the findings, which include suggested solutions such as air sealing and estimates on cost savings. “Home energy upgrades help to decrease energy costs and increase the level of safety and comfort in the home,” Carr says.

Homeowners employing home energy solutions, such as air sealing or installing energy-efficient windows or appliances, may qualify for tax credits or even cash rebates.

For more information or to schedule a home energy assessment, call Greenlink Energy Solutions at (815) 985-5181, or visit the website at usgreenlinks.com. ❚ Get SLW Home & Garden articles every week. Visit NWQSmartLiving.com and start your e-Edition today.

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I  W

Easter to Pentacost

T

he resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the Christian faith, as we just celebrated on Easter Sunday. But the story doesn’t end there. In fact, the close of the Easter season is a full 50 days after Easter. Why? “After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.” Acts 1:3 In the opening of Acts, we read that Jesus has been appearing to various people for 40 days and is now with his 11 apostles.

He tells them to stay in Jerusalem, where they will “receive power” from the holy spirit – a promise that’s fulfilled 10 days later, on the day of Pentacost – 50 days after the resurrection. “Penta” means 50.

Before Christ came, Jews celebrated Pentacost, or the Feast of Weeks, to recognize the way God provided for them – Moses brought the law to the people from Mt. Sinai 50 days after the miraculous exodus from Egypt and slavery.

Just as Israel was freed from Egyptian captivity and given God’s law 50 days later, Christ’s followers were freed from mortality by his resurrection and transformed by holy spirit 50 days later.

Jesus tells the apostles that once they have received power from the holy spirit, they will be witnesses for him not only in Jerusalem, but throughout the entire earth.

In an age without modern transportation or communication, it was quite a promise.

“And when he had spoken these things, while they watched, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.” Acts 1:9 Although we don’t celebrate Pentacost with the same fanfare given to Easter and Christmas, it’s a landmark day in the history of Christianity and is the “birthday” of the church.

This year, Pentacost will be celebrated on May 24. It’s always seven weeks after Easter Sunday. Easter is determined by calculating the first Sunday after (but never on) the first full moon after the spring equinox – the day when hours of light and darkness are about the same.

Jesus Christ, the light of this world, has entrusted his ministry of reconciliation – Janine Pumilia to us. ❚ 12

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Y Y K K

Enjoy Gluten-Free Breakfast Treats T

he breakfast sandwich has become a staple of on-the-go mornings. In fact, convenient and high-protein breakfast dishes are rising in popularity, according to a new study from Nielsen Perishables Group. But if you’re following a glutenfree diet or low-fat diet, buns, biscuits, English muffins and croissants commonly used in breakfast sandwiches might be off the menu for you.

There’s good news: Potatoes can fit right in as the base of a quick, high-protein, low-fat and totally gluten-free breakfast sandwich. It’s easy to make Hash Brown Sliders, with pre-shredded hash browns as a gluten-free substitute for traditional muffin or bagel-style breakfast sandwiches.

Add eggs to the hash brown mixture and top the sandwich with a slice of ham and creamy avocado to create a meal packed with 29 grams of protein per serving.

Enjoy it with a gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, sugar-free and nut-free smoothie, and you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying meal to start your day.

For more potato recipes, visit potatogoodness.com. ❚ Source: BrandPoint

Strawberry Coconut

Gluten-Free Hash Brown Sliders Ingredients

1 pkg. shredded hash browns, 20-oz.

2 large eggs ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese ¼ tsp. pure ground black pepper ½ tsp. table salt 2 teaspoons olive oil, divided 3 small avocados Pinch of garlic salt 8 ounces mozzarella, sliced 4 ounces Serrano ham

Directions

In a large bowl mix together hash browns, eggs, shredded cheese, pepper and salt. Use your hands to make sure everything is well coated.

In a large nonstick sauté pan, heat 1 tsp. olive oil over low to medium heat. Grab a handful of the potato mixture, about ¼ cup, and create a ball. Place it in the pan and flatten. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, remove and place on a paper towel.

Repeat until all hash browns have been used.

In a small bowl, mash the avocados and sprinkle with a little garlic salt. Place a spoonful of the mixture onto a hash brown stack. Top with a slice of Serrano ham and a slice of mozzarella cheese. Top it with another hash brown stack to create a sandwich.

Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 8 minutes.

Servings: 5

From the Kitchen of: Meagan from the blog “A Zesty Bite” as part of the U.S. Potato Board’s Potato Lovers Club program.

Fine Oils, Vinegars, & Now Spices!

Smoothie Ingredients 1 cup fresh organic strawberries, hulled 1 frozen organic banana ¾ cup organic coconut milk 1 Tb. chia seeds ½ cup ice cold cold water 1 tsp. vanilla extract Unsweetened shredded coconut for garnish

Directions Add all of the ingredients to your blender and blend until smooth and creamy.

Pour into large iced tea glass, sprinkle with coconut and enjoy.

Makes 1 large serving or 2 small

Get SLW Kitchen articles every week.

Visit NWQSmartLiving.com and start your e-Edition today.

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Junior League: ‘Come Tour Unique Spaces’ ‘U

nique Spaces’ is the name of the 2015 home tour sponsored by Junior League of Rockford April 25 & 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tour local homes and get great ideas for your own home.

Meet the professionals who helped to make these spaces come to life.

All proceeds will benefit the programs and projects of the Junior League.

Backpack Buddies is the League’s current project and is aimed at lessening the consequence of chronic childhood hunger to low-income elementary school children.

It also includes educating and empowering low-income children and their families to make healthy choices.

Established in 1930, the Junior League of Rockford has a long history of voluntarism in our community.

It has continually worked to identify needs within the community and then set about implementing responsive programs to meet those needs. Over the years, the Junior League of Rockford has been instrumental in developing the follow-

ing programs that are still thriving in our community today: Girls on Their Way, RAISE, MAYA’S, Discovery Center Museum, CASA, Bright Side Adult Day Center, Stepping Stones, Rock River Discovery Park, Domestic Violence Assistance Center, Youth Services Network, Washington Park Community Recreation Center, and Ken-Rock Community Center.

Tickets cost $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Tickets are good for one entrance into each home. Children under 12 years old, including infants, are not admitted. Also, no high heels, food or drink, cameras or backpacks. Homes are not handicapped accessible.

Tickets may be purchased at the following ticket locations through April 24: Benson Stone Co., Crimson Ridge, Interiors, Rockford Bank & Trust, Salvaged

by Sonya, Village Green (both locations), and ZaZu Gift Co. Tickets are also available at jlrockford.org. For more information call (815) 399-4518. ❚

Homes on the tour include: 1.

4602 Arlington St., Loves Park

2.

2238 Rock Terrace, Rockford

3.

200 Prairie St., Rockford

4.

1024 Rural St., Rockford

5.

6397 Muirfield Road, Rockford

6.

6381 Shiloh Close, Rockford

7.

9033 Smokethorn Trail, Belvidere

8. 10000 Beaver Valley Road, Belvidere

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Midway Village Continued from Cover

As a 14-year exhibit project, the implementation included establishing the mission, collecting oral histories and artifacts for content, exploring and writing grants to fund the project, physically constructing the exhibit, and working with an exhibition firm for the installation of the graphics and hands-on elements.

“The final phase includes a streetscape and an immigrant home with rooms representing different periods and cultures,” explains Regina Gorham, Curator of Collections & Exhibits. “The first phase focused on the general immigration experience, with a train depot and a Swedish-run furniture factory where visitors can step into the shoes of immigrants looking for employment in early Rockford. The final phase drills down to specific stories of real people, from the 1850s up to today.”

The exhibit draws heavily from a massive oral history project conducted by the museum in 2007. Scores of these

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interviews are represented, either in written or recorded form.

Early Rockford had several business districts, among them 7th Street, where Swedish was more commonly spoken than English, and, later, South Main Street, a neighborhood that changed hands from one immigrant group to another.

The exhibit features streetscapes representing both areas, and tells the stories of entrepreneurs like Swedish-born Lars Noling, who boasted that his Rockford Furniture and Undertaking was “the oldest furniture company in Rockford,” and the Sicilian family that owned Ingrassia Cash Grocery on South Main Street.

Swedes gave

other Swedes the choicest jobs in town, during Rockford’s formative years, but the exhibit shows how people from other cultures gradually found niches in the community and began the journey to integration and acceptance. Greek immigrant James Panagakis opened an ice cream parlor; Hiram Rubin, a Jewish immigrant from Eastern Europe, started a scrap metal business on Kent Street; African-

Pictured on cover and above: Mary Beth Papke and her sons, of Rochelle, Ill., enjoy learning about and painting eggs in the Lithuanian tradition, during a recent Saturday workshop at Midway Village Museum. Behind them is a portion of the streetscape in the recently completed “Many Faces, One Community” exhibit. Samantha Ryan photos.

April 8

R  O R American Charles Price ran a barbershop on South Main Street. Shoe shining, laundry services, barbershops and scrap collecting were businesses with low startup costs. “You could start out with that business and build a life for yourself,” says Gorham.

Along with the streetscape, the final phase of the Many Faces, One Community Exhibit features an immigrant home with a dining room as it might have looked in Mary Wood’s Boardinghouse at 1030 S. Main St. By lifting various placemats on the table, we’re introduced to immigrant boarders and their stories. The kitchen of the immigrant house looks the way Carmela Gaziano’s kitchen looked in 1929, when she was focused on her home, husband and children in an Italian neighborhood. The parlor is modeled around the Alma and Olof Peterson home.

Olof and Alma’s children were born in America in a cultural transition, attending a Swedish-language church and an English-speaking school.

In conjunction with the Many Faces, One Community exhibit are monthly

Saturday workshops that offer handson activities highlighting various cultural groups in our community.

In March, for example, families painted decorative eggs in the Lithuanian tradition.

“The workshops are free with general admission the third Saturday each month,” explains Lonna Converso, director of marketing and social media at the museum. “The themes vary and these workshops are structured similar to an open house. The visitors drop in during their museum visit. The projects take about 30 to 45 minutes to create.”

If you’ve never been to the Many Faces, One Community exhibit, or haven’t been there lately, you’ll find plenty to pique your interest. Adults may want to take the Citizenship Test at Mary Wood’s boardinghouse; it’s harder than you think. And there are hands-on activities for kids, too, such as “What Does the Animal Say?” designed to help children think about the language barriers immigrant children face.

“Our goal is to help people better

2015 Saturday Workshops April 18: Russian Nesting Dolls May 16: Irish Step Dancing June 20: Swedish Midsommer Festivities July 18: German Printmaking Aug. 15: Polish Name Day Sept. 19: Greek September Equinox Oct 17: Mexican Sugar Skulls Nov. 21: Italian All Saints Day Dec. 19: Rockford Sock Monkeys understand what our ancestors’ experiences were like,” says Gorham. “These people shaped our community and new waves of immigrants are still arriving.”

The museum’s exhibit is complete, but the stories of new Americans are ongoing. ❚

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Living with Diabetes: Keep Your Feet Healthy L

iving with diabetes means being aware of how it can affect every aspect of your health, including your feet. Healthy feet do more than help you walk and move; they help keep out infections that may compromise your overall health.

Diabetes can cause nerve damage in your legs and feet, which may lead to diabetic neuropathy – the inability to feel pain, heat or cold – which makes it difficult to detect blisters or sores. Unnoticed and unattended, they may turn into ulcers or become infected, and that could compromise your overall health.

Diabetes also results in peripheral vascular disease, poor blood flow which slows the healing process, another reason to attend to sores immediately. Follow these tips for caring for your feet.

• Check your feet every day. Look for cuts, blisters, sores, swelling, redness or sore toenails. If you have difficulty bending over to see your feet, use a mirror or ask someone to check your feet. If you see a wound or sore, try to stop further irritation to the area and see your doctor.

• Wash your feet every day in warm water. Test the temperature with your elbow to make certain it’s not too hot. Always dry your feet well, especially in between your toes.

• Apply lotion after washing if your feet are dry. Dry, cracked skin allows infection to get under the skin.

• File corns and calluses gently after a bath or shower. Filing

too harshly or cutting at corns and calluses can harm your skin and feet.

• Keep toenails trimmed but not too short. Cut toenails after a bath or foot washing, when they’re soft.

• Always wear shoes or slippers, even around the house, to protect your feet from injury. Wear socks with shoes to prevent blisters, but don’t wear tight socks that may cut off circulation.

• Wear shoes that fit well and are supportive, and always check inside for sharp edges or objects before putting them on.

The podiatrists at Beloit Health System and NorthPointe Health & Wellness can assist you with your foot health. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (608) 364-1640 or (815) 525-4500. ❚ Source: Beloit Health System

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13th Annual Spring Artscene April 10-11, Friday 5-9 p.m., Saturday 4-9 p.m. Showcases original works of art at 39 venues across the Rockford metro area. Admission is free and it’s a great opportunity to purchase artwork. Enjoy new exhibits and original works of art in varied media of watercolor, acrylic, wood, sculpture, pottery, furniture, jewelry, photography and multi-media. Meet the artists, Rockford Area Arts Council Admission: Free Various locations, Rockford, (815) 9636765, springartscene.com

(Midway Village Museum photo)

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See The Great War: World War I reenacted at Midway Village Museum, April 11-12, with reenactors portraying soldiers from seven countries; three battles daily; medical and cavalry units; era weapons and machinery; more.

Monster Jam Trucks April 10-11, Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 & 7:30 p.m. Starring the biggest performers on four wheels: 12-foot-tall, 10,000-pound machines, racing and ripping up a custom-designed track full of obstacles to soar over or smash through. BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com.

Red Shoe Run for Donor Awareness April 11, 8 a.m. Held every April to celebrate National Donate Life month, increase donations of organs, tissue, eye, blood and marrow, and to raise money. NIU-Rockford, 8500 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 398-9628, redshoerun.org.

2nd Annual Family Fest April 11, 10 a.m.-noon. A wonderful celebration of art and community in Rock County. Free event featuring local organizations showcasing their work, family-friendly activities for all ages, short performances and demonstrations, free raffle prizes, and a community art project. JPAC, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.

Sam Llanas April 11, 7 p.m. After 25 years with the BoDeans, a band he co-founded, Llanas continues his solo career with “The Whole Night Thru,” his third major solo release, revealing a unique, invigorating and passionate musical style. $15. Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road, Rockford, (815) 335-2915, seversondells.org The Great War: World War I April 11-12, 11 a.m. Visit encampments and talk with re-enactors portraying soldiers from the U.S., France, Great Britain, Belgium, Russia, Germany and Austria-Hungary; see cavalry and medical units. Three battles daily; indoor displays of WWI weapons and artifacts; vendor booths. Food/beverages for sale. No ATMs at the museum. $10/$5 ages 3-17/members free.

Rain or shine. Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, (815) 397-9112, midwayvillage.com.

Jazz At Emerson: Phil Pilcher and Chris Hyatt April 12, 3 p.m. The swinging sounds of live jazz, with complimentary brews by Rockford Brewing Co., snacks from the 320 Store, and meet the artists after the concert. Emerson House, 420 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.

Botanica Luncheon April 15, 10 a.m. workshop; 11:30 a.m. luncheon; 12:45 guest speaker Melinda Myers. Social hour, live and silent auctions. Benefits Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden. Info: klehm.org.

Event: Giovanni’s, 610 N. Bell School Road, Rockford. Klehm.org.

Welty Whimsies: Garden Fancies April 18, 1-4 p.m. Learn to make decorative garden stakes. A variety of pre-made stakes available. No experience necessary. $35 includes materials. Call Kelly at to sign up. Reservations required. Proceeds support environmental education. Big Hill Park (little cabin), South Afton & West Big Hill roads, Beloit, (608) 314-4340, weltycenter.org.

Earth Day Evening Hike April 22, 5:30 p.m. Renew your love for the Earth after the long winter with a leisurely hike to celebrate Earth Day. There should be early wildflowers blooming, migrating birds returning, and tree frogs beginning to sing. Please bring good hiking shoes for some intermediate hiking in this hilly park. Feel free to bring a picnic supper. Meet at the first pavilion. Big Hill Park, Beloit, (608) 3611377, weltycenter.org. ❚

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Restaurant of the Week

Pearl Bistro

By Brian Hughes

s the newest owner of Pearl Bistro, 6876 Spring Creek Road Rockford, longtime customer Rick Lewis is excited about his new career. “Other than being a customer during my many years of business travel, this is my first time owning or working in a restaurant,” he says.

Lewis purchased Pearl Bistro from Josef & Cherri Schwaiger, owners of Josef’s of Barbados, in October 2014. Although new to the restaurant game, Lewis’ excitement and enthusiasm shines brightly. Almost every day and night, he can be found at the restaurant greeting customers, filling water glasses, and directing his staff.

Pearl has been serving the Rockford area for a number of years, and Lewis plans to build on its reputation as a relaxing place where people can come for good food and fun times. “Hash tag MeetAtPearl is our motto,” he says. “It can mean anything from gathering with friends or family, to meeting for a first date, to conducting business over lunch or drinks.”

Lewis says the restaurant will operate with a similar menu, the same staff, and the reappointing of Executive Chef Jonathon Powers. Pearl is Rockford’s original Brick Oven Pizza Bar, a feature Lewis will continue to highlight. “From a simple Margherita to our Meat-Loaded Grinder, there really is a pizza for everyone,” he says.

There’s even a Bananas Foster dessert pizza.

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Amici Italian Grill  Upscale-Casual/Authentic Italian. 5506 Clayton Circle, Roscoe, (815) 623-7171. LD Sun-Th 11am9pm, F-Sat 10-pm. $-$$.

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

(Kevin Thompson photo)

A

Owner Rick Lewis, inside Pearl Bistro, Rockford

Menu items include a chicken panini, chicken Alfredo, pesto ravioli, and the Certified Angus Beef Pearl Burger. Appetizers include Buffalo Shrimp and Buffalo Chicken, which features a “secret” Pearl buffalo sauce. The Friday night fish fry also is very popular.

The full-service bar offers a variety of gourmet cocktails. “We have several new drinks, including smoke-infused martinis and craft cocktails,” Lewis says.

People at the bar can order from Pearl’s regular menu, and several large-screen TVs let customers follow their favorite sports. “We strive to treat our guests like they’re coming into our home, which creates an atmosphere that’s inviting and comfortable,” says Lewis.

Pearl Bistro is open Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-12:30 a.m., and Sun. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. ❚

(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. $$.

In the Spotlight

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

Café Fromage

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

I

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

Café Fromage  Casual/American. Regional foods. 431 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, (608) 312-2070. BrLD M-F 7am-6pm, SatNapoli Pizzeria III & Top Dollar Slots  Takeout/delivery.

Sun 8am-5pm. $.

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

Cannova’s Italian Cuisine  Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., Freeport, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. Pearl Bistro  Casual. Brick oven pizza, burgers, sandwiches, appetizers, steak, seafood, signature cocktails. 6876 Spring $-$$.

Creek, Rockford, (815) 654-3400. LD daily. $-$$.

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

Extensive wine list; daily specials. 6500 E. Riverside, Loves Prairie Street Brewhouse  Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Park, (815) 654-9900. LD M-F 11am-9pm, Sat 5-9pm. $$.

Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$.

Costa’s Ristorante  Upscale-Casual. 133 Blackhawk Dr., BySisters Thai Café  Casual/Thai-Laotian. Authentic cuisine. ron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. Open daily 4pm. $-$$.

In Clock Tower Resort, 7801 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 229Dos Reales  Casual/Mexican. Authentic Mexican fare, 4545. L M-Sat 11am-2:30pm; D Sun-Th 5-9pm, Sat 10pm. $. lunch menu. 5855 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 227-4979. LD Tavern on Clark  Casual/American. 755 Clark Ave., RockSun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 10:30pm. $-$$. ford, (815) 708-7088. LD daily 10am. $-$$.

Giordano’s Famous Stuffed Pizza  Casual/Italian. Pick-up/ delivery. 333 Executive Pkwy., Rockford, Ill. (815) 398-5700. This Is It Eatery  Casual/American. 16 N. Chicago Ave., Freeport, (815) 616-5449. LD T-Th 11am-8pm, F-Sat 10pm. $.

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

JMK Nippon Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar  Upscale- Vito’s Ristorante  Casual/Authentic Italian. 1620 N. Bell Casual. Food cooked tableside. 2551 N. Perryville, Rockford, School Rd., Rockford, (815) 312-5080. LD T-Sat 11am. $$. ❚

n May 2011, husband and wife Darren and Judith Larsen opened The Cheese People, 431 E. Grand Ave., Beloit. Their original intent was to extend their farmers markets sales of regional artisan cheeses into a retail space.

They now also operate the adjacent Café Fromage, a coffee shop and restaurant. Along with gourmet coffees and teas and specialty coffeehouse drinks, the cafe offers pastries, baked goods, sandwiches and lunch and breakfast fare. Items are made fresh daily with locally sourced ingredients when available.

The Cheese People has at least 40 regional artisan cheeses on hand, including Sweet Cream Havarti, applewood smoked baby Swiss, a variety of goats’ milk cheeses, along with artisan and regional brews and wines, jams, honey and more.

Café Fromage opens Mon.-Fri. at 7 a.m. and Sat.-Sun. at 8 a.m. ❚

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T  I

8 Questions to Ask Photographers 1. Can I see some of your recent work?

An amateur may be able to take a few great shots every now and then, but professionals know how to consistently create great results.

Ask to view an entire session in images or a compilation from different sessions to get a sense of depth of the photographer's work.

2. Are you a PPA (Professional Photographers of America) photographer?

You want to work with the best, and PPA photographers have both technical expertise and artistry.

3. Do you specialize in any one type of photography? What's your style?

Photographers often specialize in one genre over another. A photographer's style is reflected in their portfolio, so asking them to produce a radically different style is a recipe for disaster. You're counting on their knowledge of composition, lighting, posing and more to create images that fit your vision.

4. What does your fee include?

You'll want to understand what you're getting for your money: how much time, how many images, album types, format for delivering proofs, what's included in your package, etc.

5. How should I prepare my family before the session?

Pros will give you tips so your family can feel comfortable and have fun while being photographed. Trust them: they have their timing down and know what works.

6. Where can I find you online?

Photographers' websites are a great place to view their portfolios, read client testimonials and get a better sense of their personality.

Look at their social media pages and read customer reviews, as these can be very telling.

7. Can you take a picture like this one?

Find pictures similar to ones you would like to display on your mantel and show them to the photographer.

8. How and when will I obtain my photos?

Professional photographers have a reliable system for delivering photos to you in a timely manner.

Find your PPA photographer at PPA. com/SeeTheDifference/Family. ❚ Source: Brandpoint Tell them you saw it in ... Smart Living Weekly

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Are You Financially Literate?

D

on’t feel alone if you’ve committed a financial blunder. Two-thirds of Americans have, says Jim Chilton, founder and CEO for the Society for Financial Awareness (SOFA), a non-profit that provides financial education.

He urges people to avoid these common blunders: • Living without a ‘net.’ Bad things happen even to good people who are trying to do the right things. Set aside savings that will serve as an emergency fund in case you suddenly have major medical problems or lose your job. A sixto 12-month cushion would cover your mortgage, groceries, utilities and the other necessities of day-to-day living.

• Failing to check credit reports.

More than 70 percent of credit reports contain errors and identity theft is on the rise. Check your credit reports annually to make sure you’re not a victim.

• Giving little thought to retirement.

If you think Social Security will take care of you, think again. It is designed as

supplemental income, not something that can replace your entire paycheck. You need to plan and save to make sure you can lead the lifestyle you want in your later years.

• Racking up credit card debt.

Americans are carrying more than $800 billion in credit card debt. Making a conscious effort to use cash will help wean you off your reliance on plastic.

• Seeking advice in the wrong places. Uncle Felix may mean well, but he’s not necessarily the ideal person to offer you advice on the stock market.

A trained professional is your best bet. Before you pick someone to help you with investments, though, do your homework. You want someone with a good reputation. Check with the Better Business Bureau and do a Google search to see what else you can learn.

• Trying to do too much, too quickly. Financial problems that took years to create aren’t going to be fixed overnight, so ease into your new financial

plan. Instead of a dramatic overhaul that could leave you frustrated, try to make small changes that will lead to larger commitments.

“Even as we get older and presumably know more, we’re still bound to make a misstep here or there,” Chilton says. “We simply can’t know it all, especially when it comes to our finances.

“But if we realize our limitations, we can at least learn to make fewer mistakes and do a better job of setting and meeting the goals we have for our money.”

Learn more at sofausa.org. ❚

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