Smart Living Weekly September 12, 2018

Sm mart a r t L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit 95¢ • September 12, 2018

™

Right in Our Region

World War II Days at Midway Village

See Page 16

Avoiding Cyber Attacks Benefits of Power Furniture Treating Heart Failure About Home Equity Loan Tour These 5 Local Homes

FREE WIN!

2 Tickets to Sapora Playworld See Pg. 28 Details

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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Hot Diggity Dog Festival Sunday, September 16th 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Come Sit Stay!

ADOPTABLE DOGS | PET-RELATED VENDORS

Dog Training and Agility Demonstrations K-9 Unit Demonstrations

Most ORIGINAL Dog Costume Contests with Prizes Pet-Related AUCTION BILLY THE BALLOON GUY Face-Painting Food by Veebo’s Pizza Spirits by Prairie Street Brewing Co.

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden 2715 S. Main St. Rockford, IL 61102 815-965-8146 | klehm.org/DogFestival

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$5 Adults $3 Seniors, Kids under 18, & Members

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 16 World War II Days Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Why Power Furniture Rocks Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Who Owns the Earth?

Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Easy School-Night Meals Your Technology ...............................................9 Avoid Cyber Attacks Your Outings ................................................19, 21 Tour 5 Fine Homes; Celebrate Good Health Your Health ............................................. .......... 23 What to Know About Heart Failure Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 The Olympic Tavern Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 26 Your Money .............................................. ......... 29 All About Home Equity Loans

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

4.00% a es as ow as

APR*

that s up to 25% off

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 Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Distribution Kelly Fairbairn 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

BEEN MEANING TO DROP IN AND TALK ABOUT A HOME EQUITY LOAN? 8

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Your savings insured to $250,000 per account. By M Members’ m choice this institution is not federally insured. *APR= Annual Percentage Rate. **Special Interest Rate Discount of .25% valid on new loan proceeds on home equity loans up to 10 year terms and .125% on loan terms over 10 years but no higher than 15 year terms m for applications submitted m during the promotional m period of September m 1 – 30, 2018 only; disbursement m m must occur O m O O w %w % m w w m W m % m m m

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Copyright 2018 by Hughes Media Corp., 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

You are Amazing

W

hen Bill Hughes founded Northwest Quarterly Magazine 14 years ago, we made it our mission to highlight the unique strengths of this region – the truly unique ones – in a “relentlessly positive” manner.

I’ll be honest: I thought we might someday run out of bright spots to talk about.

Boy was I wrong. We’re still discovering amazing people of our region who are distinguishing themselves in circles of influence throughout the U.S. and beyond.

World War II Days at Midway Village Museum is a typical example. It’s the best reenactment of its kind, nationwide, and the second largest. It attracts more than 1,200 re-enactors from across the U.S. and several other countries, plus many thousands of spectators.

Some 80 authentic vehicles are hauled in. The pyrotechnic-assisted battles and 90 scenes played out over the weekend are thrilling.

Several things make it a stand-out. It’s well organized, for starters. The HRS re-enactor organization is a stickler for detail on things like weapon safety and authenticity of costumes and equipment. You won’t find any re-enactors pulling out their cell phones or Ray-Bans during these skirmishes. Education and accuracy are key factors.

Also, museum staff transforms the 1900sera village to a 1940s European-style town, making a truly interesting backdrop for staging skirmishes or hunting down French Resistance fighters. Organizers have also figured out details that make or break a good visitor experience, like ample parking and food.

Too, the 148-acre campus is a perfect mix of woods, village and open space; Those German Panzer tanks have ample room to roam.

The permanent trench and bunker system dug for World War I Days a few years ago is another way in which our event excels.

World War II changed the course of human history and claimed some 85 million lives. What better way to learn about it than to attend this stand-out event right here in our region.

See you there! ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor

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Y T

Ways to Avoid Cyber Criminal Attacks

By Peggy Werner

B

eware of warnings on your devices.

If you get a pop-up message or a screen saying there’s a problem with your computer and that you need to call a number to fix the problem, don’t call it. No reputable company will ever announce to you there’s a problem with your computer, says PrimeTime Audio/ Video General Manager Dirk Dutton.

“Microsoft will never call you or give you a warning asking you to call a phone number,” he says. “If you see such a message, it’s coming from cyber criminals using ransom ware, which is software designed to block access to your computer until a sum of money is paid.”

When money is paid, the hackers put an icon on your computer that allows them to access all of your information, including the webcam.

Another common way hackers try to get information is through fake emails.

When you see an email from the name of someone you know, but it looks suspicious, don’t open it. Instead, click on the details and see if it’s actually from that person or another email address. If it’s not from the person you know, delete it and report it to the Federal Trade Commission at spam@uce.gov.

“The world of hacking is the fastest growing industry in the world, and it’s no longer only about getting your credit card information. What they want is to make money off of you and it’s only a click away,” says Dutton.

“In general, always be aware and never give out information or agree to pay money to ‘fix’ a problem. If you have a problem with your computer, you’ll be the first to know. If it happens, make a call to your computer specialist to have

the problem diagnosed and fixed.”

Changing your username and password often is a good idea, especially if you’re using a default username and password on rented equipment. Also, update software and operating systems when updates are available.

“It’s amazing how many people are unaware of these safeguards,” he says. ❚

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Y H  G

Why Power Furniture is More Comfortable

By Janine Pumilia

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ost of us grew up with furniture that wasn’t always so comfortable.

We either conformed our bodies to it or stretched out on the floor.

“With recliners, all you had for a very long time was the Archie Bunker type chair that opened or closed, using muscle power,” says Mitchell Johnson, a store manager at Gustafson’s Furniture & Mattress, 6651 E. State St., Rockford.

“Then about seven years ago came really good power recliners. People immediately loved them, not because people are lazy, but because they allow you to stop at any point of motion along the way for honest, customized comfort.

“Your footrest can be raised a little or a lot or in between. And now there’s also power adjustment for your headrest and for your lumbar region. For the first time, the chair is really accommodating your body. You can make an infinite number of adjustments.”

The same motion technology was quickly incorporated into sofas and love seats and today there are options for extended foot rests that better accommodate long legs.

“About 80 percent of the chairs, sofas and love seats we sell today are power,” says Johnson. “Once people try them, they love them. They see the cost isn’t all that much greater and they know this is something they’ll use every day.”

Johnson reports very few problems with the quiet, modern DC motors that smoothly power the furniture.

“Honestly, we do less service on power furniture than on the models that move with manual power,” he says.

“People tend to whack those around pretty hard. With power, it’s just the touch of a button.”

Gustafson’s has hundreds of samples of power furniture on display. While

leather and leather-look fabrics remain the most popular, there’s also a huge selection of durable fabric options.

Through the years, furniture manufacturers have offered sofas and chairs with built-in heat, massage, speakers, lighting, refrigeration, outlets and charging stations.

“Some of those ideas came and went, but the power reclining is definitely here to stay,” says Johnson. ❚

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I  W

Who Owns Earth?

N

one of us owns the earth or anything in it. We live here for a short time.

God alone is Earth’s creator and “owner.”

His creation exists to reflect His glory and to teach us about Him. The creation holds profound lessons for those with eyes to see them.

Many, many scriptures remind us how wondrous God’s creation is and how much it pleases Him. Here are just a few (all NIV).

Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.

– John 1:3 “But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.” – Job 12:7-10

In his hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to him. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land. – Psalm 95:4-5 For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities – his eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. – Romans 1:20 “Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel; prophesy and say to them: ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Woe to the shepherds of Israel who only take care of themselves! Should not shepherds take care of the flock? You eat the curds, clothe yourselves with the wool and slaughter the choice animals, but you do not take care of the flock.” – Ezekiel 34:2-3 ❚

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

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Y K

Turn to Pantry Staples on Busy School Nights B

ack-to-school season means busy evening hours. RAGÚ blogger and mom Jamie Krauss Hess recommends stocking up on go-to pantry staples for quick, nutritious recipes. Find more at ragu.com.

Grown-Up Tomato Mac and Cheese

1 box (16 ounces) gemelli pasta 4 cups water 2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided 1/2 cup (2 oz) Pecorino Romano cheese, grated 1 TB corn starch 1 can (5 oz.) evaporated milk 1 jar (24 oz.) RAGÚ Simply Traditional Pasta Sauce 2 tsp. cracked black pepper In large pot, cook pasta over mediumhigh heat 20-22 minutes, stirring occasionally. In a bowl, combine 2 cups cheddar cheese, Pecorino Romano cheese and corn starch. Reduce heat to medium; stir milk, cheese mixture and sauce together with

cooked, undrained pasta. Cook 5-7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and mixture is thickened.

Sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese and pepper; serve immediately.

Mini Turkey Sloppy Joes

Recipe courtesy of Honey and Birch

Servings: 8 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil 1 cup onion, diced 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 pound ground turkey 1 cup carrots, finely diced 1 medium green pepper, diced 1 medium red pepper, diced 1 jar (24 oz) RAGÚ Simply Chunky Marinara Sauce 1 TB Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp ground mustard 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 8 mini buns

Sautee onion and garlic. Add ground turkey. Break up meat and stir until meat is browned. Add carrots, green pepper and red pepper. Cook 5 minutes.

Add marinara sauce, Worcestershire sauce, ground mustard, kosher salt and black pepper. Stir and bring to boil. Reduce heat so it simmers; partially cover pan.

Cook 10 minutes.

Serve on mini buns. ❚ Source: Family Features

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R  O R

World War II Comes Alive Sept. 22 & 23

By Randy Ruef

D

ave Fornell has been a World War II re-enactor for 28 years.

When you ask him why, the child in him peeks out at first.

“It gives you an excuse to collect really cool stuff and to go camping with friends,” he says. “And it’s an adult show-and-tell, which helps me justify why I have so many World War II items in my collection.”

In his next breath, the adult with a sense of moral obligation speaks.

“World War II has nostalgia about it that runs deep within the common population,” he says. “Anything about that war has a popular tone. People see it as the Greatest Generation fighting a war for freedom and democracy. There are a lot of grey areas in so many things, but in World War II, there were pretty clear-cut lines of good and bad. We had genocide and people overtaking countries. And if not literally, they were economically put-

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ting people into states of servitude. Every corner of the world was involved. We try to make people understand the war from all sides. That’s part of why we do this.

So history doesn’t repeat itself.”

That’s why Fornell and hundreds of other re-enactors do repeat themselves every September at World War II Days, a weekend-long event at Midway Village Museum in Rockford. These are more than hobbyists. These are teachers. And the expansive museum grounds serve as a grand classroom.

This year’s event takes place over three days, with the “Behind The Lines Tour” on Sept. 21 and the actual World War II Days taking place Sept. 22 and 23.

“It’s the largest two-day event at Midway Village and the second-largest World War II re-enactment in the country,” says Lonna Converso, the museum’s director of marketing and social media.

According to Fornell, who is the overall coordinator of the event, roughly

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1,200 re-enactors take part.

“This event is unique,” says Fornell, who by day is a magazine editor for Scranton Gillette Communications in Arlington Heights. “There are only a couple of these around the country as big as Rockford. Anything above 300 to 400 is considered pretty good-sized. But this one draws re-enactors from 35 states, and we also have some international visitors too, including some from Canada, Poland, Malta, Italy and Great Britain. The re-enactors consider this one one of the top events.”

Not bad for a presentation that started 22 years ago with 100 re-enactors.

And it’s more than just the players.

“We also have at least 80 World War II vehicles,” Fornell says. “That includes bicycles, motorcycles, tanks and halftracks. And we have an original German Hetzer. If you’re into weapons, pretty much every kind from World War II is on display.”

R  O R There are roughly 90 scenes – or units – throughout the grounds with anywhere from five to 90 re-enactors in each one.

“There is an emphasis on different time periods of the war,” says Fornell, who serves as commander for a German unit. “For example, there’s Poland in 1939 and France in 1940. People will be able to see World War II entrenchments and people in foxholes. We have battles that take place in villages and battles in the woods. The main battlefield is the size of several football fields, with entrenchments on both sides with professional pyrotechnics. There are lots of explosions and smoke. And we’ll have a dueling tank battle.”

The main focus is devoted to the war in Europe, but there are areas set aside for the Pacific theater as well.

It’s not just battles that are re-enacted here.

“The Andrews Sisters will come for a musical performance, and World War II model planes will do flying demonstrations,” says Alyssa McGhghy, the special

event coordinator for Midway Village.

“You basically step into Midway’s historic village and you are immersed into World War II.” Spectators are encouraged not only to see the displays and watch the battles, but to get directly involved.

“It’s very interactive,” McGhghy says. “Re-enactors love it when people come up and engage with them. We encourage that.”

“You can ask every camp a question,” Fornell adds. “The kids can get a lot out of it, as well.”

The family-friendly atmosphere, combined with the size, scope, authenticity and attention to detail, are what draw nearly 9,000 spectators to the annual event.

The tours that first night are from 5-6 p.m., followed by a dinner and a presentation by Dr. Edward Gordon, who wrote the book “Divided on D-Day: New Perspectives on the Normandy Campaign.”

Then on Saturday and Sunday, the action begins.

“If people have an interest in World War II, this is one of the must-go-to events in the Midwest,” Fornell says.

“It’s worth the drive to come out. There is plenty to do and see. It’s a wealth of knowledge and information that you generally won’t find in a museum.”

Daily tickets to World War II Days are $14 for adults, $12 for veterans and active-duty military, $8 for children ages 3-17, and free for kids under 3 as well as museum members and World War II vets.

Purchase tickets online at midwayvillage. com or at the gate. Parking is $2 for nonmuseum members. ❚

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Y O

Tour 5 Beautiful Local Homes on Sept. 15

By Peggy Werner he Rockford Woman’s Club is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its building at 323 Park Ave. by putting the spotlight on beautiful and outstanding homes in the Rockford area.

Five elegant, dramatic, high-end homes will be featured in the Fall Home and Garden Tour open to the public from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 15. The tour is a continuation of the event that featured five other homes in June.

“We were so pleased with the attendance and reaction from people during the spring tour; we hope even more people will come to see the next five homes. Each home is unique, one-of-a-kind, and meant to inspire,” says President Nancy Whitlock, a long-time member of the Rockford Woman’s Club.

Homeowners will be available to answer questions and provide information.

Otherwise, the tours are self-guided and

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people can go through them at their own pace, in any order.

A home at 3475 Westminster Drive (pictured above) is a stately 1923 English Tudor style that has been totally remodeled to preserve original parts of the home but also create a new look.

The spacious home at 9544 N. Second St. in Roscoe was designed by local architect Gary Anderson and is situated on a bluff overlooking the Rock River.

The property at 12822 Ashfield Road

in Caledonia, exudes luxury. The 2004 Parade Home is filled with custom millwork moldings, Brazilian cherry flooring, soaring ceilings and expansive windows.

Built to replace a home that burned in 2002, the hyperbolic paraboloid structure at 5635 Nebeshonee Lane is the brainchild of late businessman John R. Martin. A unique steel and glass construction is used to carry out the theme of a rising Phoenix.

Breathtaking views can be seen from 7042 Kinnikinnick Dr., in Roscoe, a fully exposed ranch situated on the third hole of the Ledges Golf Course on a 1.29-acre wooded lot.

Tickets are $40 and may be purchased at rockfordtheater.com or at Crimson Ridge, 735 N. Perryville Road; Poska, 2213 E. State St.; Possessions, 1642 N. Alpine Road (at Highcrest Centre) Shear Renewal Salon, 2209 E. State St.; and both locations of Village Green Nursery at 6101 E. Riverside Blvd. and 2640 N. Main St. ❚

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Y O

Festival at Circle of Wellness Sept. 18

By Peggy Werner

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ircle of Wellness, 3626 E. State St., is putting the spotlight on locally owned businesses and healthful, painfree living, while celebrating its 10th anniversary with a Fairview Family Fun Festival from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 18, at the clinic.

All-day prize giveaways, free chair massages, discounted massage packages, food, kids’ activities, health seminars and demonstrations, music and a raffle to raise money for a terminally ill child will be the highlights of the event.

Certified Massage and Bodywork Therapist Leila MacQueen says, “We’re not only celebrating our 10th anniversary, but we’re also promoting other businesses in Rockford and celebrating our community.”

A main focus is raising raffle money for a 9-year-old Roscoe boy suffering

from Batten Disease, a fatal childhood disease of the nervous system. The child gets medical massage at Circle of Wellness.

“This disease is rare and no one has heard of it and there is no non-profit organization to help these people,” says MacQueen. “I wanted to do something for someone in the area.”

MacQueen was born and raised in Rockford and is the founder of Circle of Wellness. Her passion, she says, is to provide affordable massage to people suffering from pain and to give back to her community.

Food for Fuel, Olive Branch, Downtown Fancy Franks, Ritchie’s Smokin’ BBQ and LaFiesta Candies will sell refreshments during the festival. Activities for kids will include face painting, a Lollipop Pull, bouncy house, bike safety checks, free bicycle helmets (while they last), and music by Crazy Moon DJ.

Yoga, Qigong and reflexology demonstrations will be presented, as well as talks on lymphatic drainage through massage and better breathing techniques.

“Medical massage works with the body’s lymphatic, muscular and skeletal systems to help people heal from injuries, disease and surgeries, and to alleviate pain,” she says.

The free festival is sponsored by Transformation Plastic Surgery; Boost Mobile by Ramos Wireless; and Don Carter Lanes. ❚

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Y H

What is Heart Failure and How is it Treated?

By Mercyhealth Staff eart failure is a serious illness, but with the right treatment and careful management, you can control your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Many conditions can cause heart failure, including coronary artery disease, a past heart attack, high blood pressure or heart valve disease.

When you have heart failure, your heart’s pumping power is weaker than normal, or the heart muscles are stiff and do not relax and fill properly. Your blood moves through the heart and body at a slower rate, which then increases the pressure in the heart.

When this happens, your heart cannot pump enough oxygen and nutrients to meet your body’s needs. The chambers of the heart respond by stretching to hold more blood to pump through the body.

This helps to keep the blood moving for a short while, but then the heart muscle

H

walls weaken and can’t pump as strongly.

Your kidneys often respond by causing your body to retain fluid (water) and sodium. If fluid builds up in your arms, legs, ankles, feet, lungs or other organs, your body becomes congested. Congestive heart failure is the term used to describe this condition.

Health professionals, such as those at the Mercyhealth Heart Failure Clinic, use advanced testing, specialized treatments and individualized support and educa-

tion to develop a treatment plan tailored to a an individual’s needs. Staff members work closely with primary care providers to keep them fully apprised of progress.

A heart failure patient periodically undergoes tests to evaluate the function of the heart, overall fitness level and other relevant information. These tests may include EKGs, echocardiograms, stress tests, blood tests and electrophysiology studies. Interventional cardiology, cardiac catheterization, and pacemaker and defibrillator placement services also are available, as needed.

With the right care, heart failure will not stop people from doing the things they enjoy. Their outlook for the future will depend on how well their heart muscle is functioning, their symptoms, and how well they respond to and follow their treatment plans.

Learn more at MercyHealthSystem. org. ❚

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Sept. 12

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

Real. Original.

SM

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

ILLINOIS, USA

glowing in autumn’s glory. Indoors, our concert and theater season will be gaining momentum at Coronado Performing Arts Center, a beautifully restored downtown vaudeville house. Plus, our Riverfront Museum Campus will be coming alive for the whole family. Visit gorockford.com today for a full list of autumn special events, festivals, gardens, golf and more.

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau NWQ_fall.indd 1

102 N. Main St.

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Tourism

Attractions & Events

Music on the Mall – Edgebrook Most Fridays 6:30-8:30 p.m. On Sept. 14 Zach Pietrini performs. Bring your own chair. 1639 N. Alpine Road, (815) 226Rockford, 61101 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com 0212,IL edgebrookshops.com.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

Wings of Wonder – Lorikeet Exhibit Thru Nov. 11, Tues.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Meet these always curious nectar-feeding birds known for their playful personalities, vibrant coloration and ability to mimic words and sounds. Nicholas Conservatory, 1354 N. 2nd St., (815) 987-8858, rockfordparkdistrict. org/ncg.

Listening Room Concerts Sept. 21-Dec. 21, Fri. 7 p.m. Sofia Talvik, Rupert Wates, Blues Boys, Emily Hurd, Marques Morel and Andrew Holm are some of the upcoming performers. Listening Room, 201 7th St., Rockford, (815) 9658903, rockfordlisteningroom.com.

RAM Midwestern Biennial Show Now thru Sept. 30, daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

RAM, Rockford, (815) 968-2787, rockfordartmuseum.org.

Rockford City Market Fridays thru Sept. 28. On Sept. 14 featuring Post Facto on the Main Stage and Su in the Acouszy in the Acoustic Area.

Tunes on the Terrace: Trinadora Rocks Most Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m. On Sept. 19, Trinadora Rocks. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, (815) 987-8858, rockfordparkdistrict.org/ncg.

AE: 'Women in Jeopardy' Thru Sept. 23, Thur.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 2 p.m., Sun. 4 p.m. In this comedy, Liz has a new man in her life and her friends want to be supportive, but suspect that he's a serial killer. Artists’ Ensemble (AE), Cheek Theatre, Rockford U., 5050 E. State St., (815) 3945004, artistsensemble.org.

Stephen Williamson Sept. 14, 7:30 p.m. The principal clarinetist of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra was a featured soloist for John Williams’ score for the film “Lincoln.” Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center (MPAC), Mendelssohn Hall, 406 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 964-9713, men-

It's Hot Diggity Dog time at Klehm on Sept. 16.

delssohnpac.org.

Vince Chiarelli Sept. 15, 7 p.m. Join Rockford’s own Vince Chiarelli and his band for an evening of Italian music with a modern twist. Spring Creek UCC, (815) 877-2576, springcreekucc. org.

James Lee Stanley Sept. 15, 7 p.m. This talented singer-songwriter is a favorite performing visitor in Rockford. Just Goods Listening Room, 201 7th St. (815) 964-7111, rockfordlisteningroom.com.

RAM: Greenwich Village Art Fair Sept. 15-17, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. The 70th annual art fair features artists from across the nation, live music, children’s art activities, food & drink. 711 N. Main St. RAM, (815) 968-2787, rockfordartmuseum.org.

Hot Diggity Dog Festival Sept. 16, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Featuring agility demonstrations, police canine units, a dog costume contest and an array of pet-related vendors. Dog shelters and agencies showcase adoptable dogs; a complimentary family membership with each adoption. Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., (815) 965-8146, klehm.org.

Fall Into Rockford Sept. 22, 2-8 p.m. in downtown Rockford.

A new family festival from the River District Association featuring nationally known country recording artists Adam Doleac and Jae Allen, Unity the Band and Julia Cole; a Kids' Zone; local restaurants setting up food tents and more. Free admission. Learn more at RiverDistrict.com/fall-for-rockford. ❚

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WDL

An Old Favorite with a Fresh Outlook

By Janine Pumilia

F

ans of Olympic Tavern, 2327 N. Main St., have felt at home here since 1945. What began as a neighborhood burger and beer joint blossomed into a full-service restaurant known for its expansive menu, cozy atmosphere and forward-thinking bar menu. Whether your tastes run to burgers or seared Ahi tuna, you’ll feel at home.

“The public makes us who we are,” says Zak Rotello, third-generation owner, craft beer aficionado and general manager. “We just try to offer things other places don’t. If we’re doing a fish fry, we order a better grade of fish. That’s how we think.”

Rotello likes the way the Olympic attracts a variety of people.

“We still have our regulars from the neighborhood but we also have regulars from Cherry Valley and other places,” he says. “We have young singles, families, older people.”

While the Olympic still flips plenty of burgers, some are black bean, bison or “No Bread Fred” burgers. If you prefer St. Louis ribs, prime rib or a crisp salad loaded with salmon, steak or chicken, that’s fine, too.

Regular weekly dining specials include $3 Taco Tuesday; $12 Fried Chicken Wednesday; $14 New York Strip Thursday; $12 Friday fish fry and a $19 prime rib meal on Saturdays. Buy-one, get-one appetizer nights are Tuesdays after 8 p.m. and Saturdays after 9 p.m.

Other chef specials change from day to day, for appetizers and entrees.

Zak’s late grandparents, Anthony and Lee Rotello, opened Olympic Tavern after Anthony returned from World War II as a U.S. Marine veteran in 1945.

Their son, Tom, took over in the ’90s and added a full-service menu, three times more seating, a giant stone fireplace and outdoor dining patio. Tom still works at Olympic every day.

Zak educated himself on all things beer and stays abreast of trends that younger folks appreciate. He spent time working at a brewery in Portland, Ore., before studying the brewing process at the Siebel Institute of Technology in Chicago. His draught beer menu offers 28 options.

Private parties for up to 70 people can be arranged and Zak is working to expand the Olympic’s catering operation.

Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.midnight and Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

Learn more about special events on Facebook or at theOlympictavern.com. ❚ ❚

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Baci’s Kitchen  Fast-Casual, dine-in, carry-out. 2990 N. Perryville Road, inside A Perryville Place. (815) 329-6922. Open 7 days/wk. at 8 a.m. BkLD. Complete menu at Baciskitchen.com.

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

Capital House  Lunches, fine dining, sushi bar, gourmet coffee & pastries, martini bar. 308 W. State St., Rockford, (815) 708-8989. LD T-Th 11am-10pm, Fri.-Sat. 11 am-10pm. $-$$$.

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

Daily specials. 6500 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, Ill. (815) 654-9900. LD M-F 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 5-10 p.m. $$

3473. BkLD M-F 11am, Sat-Sun 8am. Bar open late. $$$.

Hearthrock Cafe  Restaurant/cafe. Baked goods, coffee, breakfast, lunch. Inside Benson Stone Co., 1100 11th St., (815) 227-2000. BkL M-F 7:30am-3pm; Sat. 8am-3pm. $-$$.

Maciano’s Pizza & Pastaria  Casual. Pizza, Italian favorites, beer & wine. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, (815) 633-7500; and 5801 Columbia Pkwy., Rockford, (815) 2275577. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $$.

Olympic Tavern  Upscale-Casual/American. 2327 N. Main St., (815) 962-8758. Extensive beer list. LD M-Th 11 a.m.-midnight; Fri-Sat. to 2 a.m. $-$$.

Cucina di Rosa  Italian Bistro/Bakery 1620 Bell School Road, (815) 395-5040. BkLD. M-Sat 7am-9pm. $$

Prairie Street Brewhouse  Upscale-Casual/American.

200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$.

Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant  Casual/Mexican. 5855 E. State St., (815) 227-4979. LD $-$$.

Rock Cut Concessions  Casual American. BkLD. Daily 8 a.m.-7 p.m., open to 9 p.m. on Friday for fish fry.

Fresco at the Gardens.  Casual/American Café. 318 Spring Creek Road, (815) 316-2256. BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$

Taco Betty’s  Casual/Mexican-American. 212 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 977-5650. LD Daily 11am-1am. $$.

Giordano’s  Casual/Italian. Stuffed pizza, salads, entrees, sandwiches, desserts. 33 Executive Parkway, Rockford, (815) 398-5700. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11 pm.

Union Dairy  Ice cream treats, grill food. Locally sourced.

126 E. Douglas, Freeport. LD Daily 11am-10 pm. Grill closed Sundays and after 8 pm. $$.

GreenFire  Upscale-Casual/American contemporary. Live entertainment. 6795 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, (815) 316-

Thrive Café  Casual. Healthful food & drinks. 6731 Broadcast Pkwy, Loves Park. BkLD M-F 7am-8pm, Sat 9am-5pm. ❚

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In the Spotlight Bravo Pizza

W

ith more than 40 years in the restaurant business, Joe Ocello knows how to create an authentic dining experience. Since opening the first Bravo Pizza & Italian Restaurant location in 2001 with wife Francesca, the couple has been refining its classic Italian fare.

Most items are made from scratch, ensuring a home-made meal with fresh ingredients. The Italian beef, served au jus or with tomato meat sauce, was named Best in the Stateline by MyStateline.com in 2013. Top sellers include Italian meatball sandwiches, fettucine Alfredo and fish specials.

“We make it all ourselves. Each meatball is about a quarter pound apiece, so they’re huge,” says Ocello.

Bravo has locations in South Beloit and Poplar Grove. Both offer a full-service bar, catering, carry-out and delivery services.

Learn more at Bravopizzarestaurant.com. ❚

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Sept. 12

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Y M

Need Cash? Consider a Home Equity Loan

By Peggy Werner

P

eople agonizing over how to pay expenses may be overlooking a solution in their own backyard.

“Your home may be an untapped source of funds you could use to your advantage,” says Matt Lynch, Director of Marketing for MembersAlliance Credit Union, 2550 S. Alpine Road. “Most people are aware of home equity loans, but many don’t think of them as an option when they need money.”

Home equity loans can be used to pay for home renovations, debt consolidation, college or wedding expenses, vehicle purchases and more.

The advantages of home equity loans, in most cases, are lower interest rates and closing costs, with fewer regulatory restrictions and fees. This is because the homeowner is not making a new purchase so the regulatory environment is not as cumbersome.

People often make the mistake of thinking what they’ve already paid on the home figures into the equation, but that’s not necessarily the case. What you can borrow depends on the current value of your home versus what you still owe.

Every financial institution has different types of home equity offerings, interest rates and repayment plans. Rising home values are good news for people who want to access extra cash without paying prohibitively high interest rates.

When borrowing money using a home equity loan, you receive the money in a lump sum and have a fixed interest rate, explains Lynch. This type of loan is not to be confused with a home equity line of credit (HELOC), which is an available maximum amount you can draw money from multiple times whenever you need it. Unlike a home equity loan, a HELOC usually has an adjustable interest rate. It’s a revolving loan, operating similarly to a

credit card in that you only repay based on what you choose to spend at any given time. The interest rate is much more favorable than a credit card’s interest rate.

Learn more by going to membersalliance.org or any MembersAlliance Credit Union location. MembersAlliance has Rockford locations at 2550 S. Alpine Road, 6951 Olde Creek Road, and inside the Wal-Mart Supercenters on West Riverside Boulevard, Walton Street and the Wal-Mart on Rockton Road. Experienced loan officers are available at all locations.

Preapproval applications are available online. ❚

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