Smart Living Weekly April 3, 2019

Sm mart a r L iving mar Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • April 3, 2019

™

Right in Our Region

IceHogs Wrap Up

See Page 16

Plan Ahead to Prevent Legal Headaches Spring Stop n Shop Food as Medicine Why You Should Test for Radon

FREE WIN!

4 Tickets to Public Skate at Carlson or Riverview 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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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 16 Rockford IceHogs Wrap Up 20th Season Your Home ............................................ ..... 11, 19 Renovation Tips; Home Trends 2019 Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 A Walk With Jesus Your Kitchen ......................................................15 Cooking with Mushrooms Your Community ...............................................20 Taking Pet Ownership Seriously Your Health ............................................. .....21, 23 Food as Medicine; Why Radon Gas is a Threat Your Outing ............................................. .......... 24 Spring Stop and Shop Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 Tavern on Clark Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 26 Your Money .............................................. ......... 29 Be Proactive to Prevent Legal Woes

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

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

Copyright 2019 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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A Little Knowledge ...

S

omeone asked a question about radon gas when we were out for dinner, recently.

I was expertly holding forth all I knew about it, when daughter Rebecca stopped me, her eyes slightly glazed.

“Mom, you have that ‘I just wrote an article about this’ tone in your voice.”

She was right. I had recently pored over radon gas facts. Who knew it was the No. 1 cause of lung cancer in non-smokers? Not me.

“Fascinating!” as Mr. Spock would say. But maybe too much data at dinner is ... too much.

Subjects we write about in Smart Living Weekly interest me because they are practical.

My buddy Peggy Werner and I sometimes chuckle about this during lunch dates.

Peggy holds a Master’s in journalism, me a Bachelor’s. Between us, we’ve reported serious news about budgets and boardrooms, disasters and courtrooms. But the nuggets of knowledge we personally use every day have come from our work on Smart Living Weekly.

Things like how to keep garbage disposal blades sharp; how long gasoline lasts in a lawnmower before it breaks down; how to handle pet-stained carpets … and, for that matter, incontinent pets.

We’ve learned about wills & trusts, weight loss, kids’ summer camps, signs of impending stroke, identity-theft prevention, best bird foods, the difference between florist mums and hardy mums ... and so much more.

I learned what an ice dam is just before experiencing a leaky roof caused by one … and was very glad I didn’t waste money “fixing” the wrong problem.

What we learn comes from real live people at local businesses and organizations, not the Internet. Raising their visibility and providing you with bits of their practical wisdom is our whole mission.

I thought about this yesterday, when I noticed my hubby wearing a Nicholson Hardware tee shirt. He loves that store because it often helps him to be a problem-solving hero around our house. He’s never worn a tee from a big-box store.

We hope you enjoy this learning journey with us and will turn to our advertisers for goods, services and very practical advice.

Enjoy Your Week! ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor

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Tips for a Smooth Kitchen or Bath Remodel

By Janine Pumilia od Chapman, owner of C & H Design Center, has coordinated a lot of kitchen and bath remodels during the past 10 years and has some advice to share.

First, be wary of do-it-yourself projects.

“We often have to go in and fix problems people created for themselves by taking on more than they really knew how to do,” says Chapman. “They’re trying to save money, but it ends up costing them more. Take advantage of the knowledge and experience people like us can offer.”

Chapman’s 6,000-foot showroom at 6506 Logan Ave., in Belvidere, Ill., contains all the elements needed for any size job, from design help to cabinets, counters, tile, hardware, fixtures, shower systems, flooring and more. C & H Design Center serves customers within a 65-mile radius, including Rockford, Freeport,

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southern Wisconsin and Chicago suburbs.

“Some people think they’ll save a lot of money buying from big-box home centers but don’t realize those materials are often rejects or factory seconds that may not be great quality,” says Chapman.

“Our pricing is comparable to home centers, but we carry a bigger selection of quality products at all price points. Plus, you don’t have to stand there and figure out all the aspects of the job yourself.”

Chapman is glad he can offer a onestop experience to customers because he knows how many phone calls and headaches can be involved when coordinating a job.

“Someone has to do all the scheduling for the various subcontractors,” he says. “We can handle everything so that you only have one interface, or we’ll work with you if you want to use a par-

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ticular subcontractor. When you do a remodel with us, you’ll get a schedule of who is going to be there, on which day, doing what.”

Chapman advises people to make sure they feel comfortable with the contractor they hire and to be sure all subcontractors are licensed and insured. Ask to see photos of completed jobs and check references. Businesses with longevity and a local street address are more likely to be reliable.

Learn more at www.chbuildersinc. com or call (815) 547-8453. ❚

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I  W

A Walk with Jesus

P

erhaps the most useful mental image for Christians is that of walking beside Jesus Christ, carefully listening to his voice.

In Luke chapter 24, we read of such a walk that literally happened when Jesus, in his new spiritual body, joined two men who were talking about his recent crucifixion as they walk toward Emmaus, about 7 miles from Jerusalem: [24:13] They were talking with each other about everything that had happened.

As they discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them, but they were kept from recognizing him. He asked, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?”

They stood still, their faces downcast.

One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who doesn’t know the things that have happened there in these days?”

“What things?” Jesus asked.

“About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied.

They tell him they had hoped Jesus would redeem Israel, but instead he was executed. They relay the story, ending with the report of the empty tomb.

“How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken!”

Jesus says. “Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.

Imagine being taught the Old Testament prophecies about Jesus by Jesus himself!

They then invite him to supper.

When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened Scriptures to us?”

Of all the miracles the resurrected Christ could have performed that day, he chose to conceal his identity and teach the men what Scripture had to say about the Messiah. That should speak volumes to us about the importance of learning scripture!

We, too, can walk and talk with Jesus, finding him in the living Word. ❚ – Janine Pumilia

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HOURS: IDAY MONDAY-FR 0PM 7:30AM-5:3 9 UST JUNE 3-AUG N!) OF FU (9 WEEKS

4 1 4 S E G A R FO

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Tasty, Healthful Mushrooms P

lant-based diets are a tenet of sustainable eating and mushrooms are often included. Known for their meaty flavor and good nutritional properties, they’re both healthy on the plate and easy on the planet. Find more mushroom recipes at mushroomcouncil.com.

Three Mushroom & Garlic Grilled Pizza 1 TB unsalted butter 4 garlic cloves, minced 5 basil leaves, minced 2 TB all-purpose flour 3/4 cup half-and-half 2 TB grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 tsp. fine sea salt 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper 2 TB extra-virgin olive oil 3 oz. crimini mushrooms, sliced 3 oz. shiitake mushrooms, sliced 3 oz. white button mushrooms, sliced 1 oz. dry white wine or chicken stock 1/4 tsp. fine sea salt Pizza dough (14 inches) Olive oil nonstick cooking spray 4 oz. mozzarella cheese, chopped

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shaved Parmesan, for garnish basil leaves, for garnish

Heat grill to about 425 F. Sauce: In medium skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Whisk in garlic and basil; cook 1 minute. Sprinkle in flour while whisking to form paste.

Reduce heat to medium. Slowly pour in half-and-half while continuing to whisk until there are no clumps. Increase heat slightly to bring to simmer. Stir as mixture thickens into sauce, about 1 minute. Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper; set aside.

In large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 2 minutes. Pour in wine or stock and continue cooking until liquid evaporates, about 1 minute.

Stretch dough to make 14-inch pizza. Brush grill grates generously with olive oil. Place dough on grill and let cook about 3 minutes, until underside is browned and dough removes easily

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from grill. While removing dough from grill, flip it onto baking sheet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray so cooked side is up.

Spread sauce over pizza and evenly cover in mushrooms. Add mozzarella cheese.

Return pizza to grill, topping-side up. Close lid and let cook 3-5 minutes.

Once top crust browns and cheese melts and bubbles, remove from grill. Let rest 2-3 minutes. Garnish with Parmesan and basil leaves; slice to serve. ❚

Smart Living Weekly

(Source: Family Features)

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Plenty to Celebrate in 20th IceHogs Year

By Peggy Werner

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he Rockford IceHogs season is drawing to a close and excitement is at a record level, with the team in a close race to make it to the playoffs. The team is finishing out the year with a new coach, welcoming new players and continuing a celebration of its 20th year.

IceHogs Director of Business Operations Mike Peck says it’s a close battle, with four teams fighting for one spot and all separated by one point.

“We’ll go down to the wire and if we win the next few games, we’ll be in good shape, but anything can happen. At this point, every game is important,” he says.

Meanwhile, the 20th year is its own milestone to celebrate, since the IceHogs organization has established itself as the city’s longest running sports team.

It has also accomplished a great deal of good through the IceHogs Charitable

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Foundation and has been able to grow its loyal fan base. This year is a good opportunity to remember the road to greatness.

“It’s been a great season reflecting back, reaching out to our former players for Alumni Night, and doing lot of reminiscing,” says Peck. “A lot has changed, for sure, but one thing that doesn’t change is our strong and supportive fan base.”

Peck points to two major turning points in the team’s history, including the first championship win in May, 2007, when the IceHogs, led by Coach Steve Martinson, topped the Kalamazoo Wings in seven games with the series clincher at the (then) MetroCentre to take home the Colonial Cup. Following that win, a new era began as the IceHogs made the jump to the American Hockey League (AHL), as the top affiliate of the Chicago Blackhawks.

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In March, 2007, the AHL Board of Governors unanimously approved the sale and relocation of the inactive AHL franchise in Cincinnati to Rockford and the team began to play in its new league in October 2007.

One of the 20th anniversary promotions still in the works is bringing Coach Martinson back to Rockford for a visit.

Now coaching in Allen, Texas, he’s one of three coaches in professional hockey to win 1,000 games, Peck says.

Peck credits Coach Derek King with doing a great job with the team this year.

Just one month into the season, he moved up from assistant coach to interim coach after Jeremy Colliton was named the head coach of the Chicago Blackhawks.

“We’re used to change, but that was a big change and Derek has really done a great job of keeping the team together

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and helping players get a taste of what it means to be a professional hockey player,” Peck says.

The AHL is made up of teams from the U.S. and Canada. The National Hockey League (NHL) has teams around the world. Early in the season, the AHL welcomed a new team, The Colorado Eagles.

About 86 percent of NHL players played in the AHL at some time, Peck says. The average length of stay for an IceHogs player is about two years.

This season saw several players

transfer to Chicago, including Defenseman Carl Dahlstrom and Goalie Collin Delia.

A new player who generated excitement on the team this season is forward Fredrik Olofsson, 22, who just completed his senior season at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where he tallied a career high of 34 points in 36 games as an alternate captain.

The six-foot-two-inch 197-pound forward led the Mavericks in assists, finished second in overall scoring last season and capped the year with nine multi-point efforts. A native of Helsingborg, Sweden, Olofsson logged 20-plus points during each of his last three seasons at Omaha, including scoring doubledigit goals as both a sophomore and senior. Overall, he totaled 95 points (35g, 60a) in 137 collegiate games during his four-year tenure with the Mavericks.

The IceHogs have also agreed to terms with Defenseman Chad Krys, 20,

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who played his first game with the IceHogs March 27. He recently completed his junior season at Boston University, where he posted 20 points with 12 assists and a career-high eight goals. He served as an alternate captain and became the first defenseman for the team in 47 years to register two goals and three assists in a single game.

Overall, Krys, a Ridgefield, Conn. native, totaled 58 points (20g, 38a) in 105 career collegiate contests from 2016-19.

He logged double-digit points in each of his three campaigns with Boston and totaled 20-plus points during both his sophomore and junior seasons. Krys also spent two seasons with the United States National Team Development Program prior to beginning his collegiate career.

“We always get a handful of guys who join late in the season,” says Peck.

“They bring a lot of energy to the game and are one step closer to their dreams of being fulltime professional hockey players.” ❚

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Y H  G

2019 Furniture Trend: Comfort, Durability

By Janine Pumilia

C

omfort, function and classic good looks go hand in hand in today’s furniture styles and there have never been more ways to customize pieces for every room of the house, says Jackie Finnander, design consultant at Gustafson’s Furniture & Mattress, 6651 E. State St., Rockford.

“We’re noticing a lot of people looking for power reclining furniture with the power head rest and lumbar support,” says Finnander. “And we’re seeing more end tables and chair-side tables with outlets, USB ports and storage in them to make life easier.”

Both sectionals and traditional living room groupings have a place in today’s American home, she says.

Groupings are more easily moved around to accommodate special occasions.

“They give you more options when

This Flexsteel sectional offers comfort, durability, style and full customization.

it’s time to put up a Christmas tree or when you need to make space in a room so you can take pictures before a school dance,” says Finnander.

But people also love lounging on comfy sectionals, especially now that there are so many ways to customize them and the style options have expanded.

“People can get the exact shape they need to fit their family, with options for a chaise lounge, a cuddler, or even reclining seats, without having to give up the style they love,” she says.

It’s important to remember that

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any furniture showroom displays only a fraction of what can be custom ordered.

Choose the fabric or leather, cushion depth and firmness, wood finish, arm and foot shape etc. that you want.

Finnander also sees people gravitating toward higher quality furniture.

“More people are understanding that you get what you pay for,” she says. “We don’t have time to constantly be on the lookout for replacement furniture in our fast-paced society. So people are starting to spend more for the quality piece they can depend on, rather than just getting the look for cheap.”

Both leather and durable man-made fabrics like polypropylene are popular with customers, she says. “Right now we’re seeing a trend toward tweed-look fabrics. The texture and color variance allows people to be more free when changing up their rooms. It’s a timeless transitional trend.” ❚

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Think it Through Before Adopting a Pet

By Peggy Werner

O

wning a pet is a bigger responsibility than some people want to think about in advance.

Until all pet owners learn to take their responsibility more seriously, the number of stray and unwanted cats and dogs will only grow, says Stephanie Lauer, executive director of Noah’s Ark. She works with other agencies to help control cat overpopulation and to get eligible people the training, food, medicine and other services needed for their pets.

People are often impulsive and caught off guard by an animal’s cuteness, Lauer says. Before adopting a pet, people should think through why they want one, who is going to care for it, what it will cost long term, the breed characteristics best suited them, what training is needed, and if they are willing to ride out tough times with that pet for years to come.

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Brooke Pond, employed at Noah’s Ark for the past two years, went through some very tough times about three years ago, but that didn’t change her relationship with her four-month-old puppy, Ellie, a pit-bull mix.

Pond had been living with a friend.

When things didn’t work out, she was given a 24-hour notice to leave. She packed up her things and lived out of her car for about three weeks, more often than not staying overnight with a relative or friend, if dogs were allowed.

“Giving up Ellie was not an option for me,” she says. “It wasn’t her fault.

She was a part of my family and we were going to face whatever we had to face – together.”

When Pond found a place to live, she decided to dedicate her life to working at an animal shelter and applied for an open-

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ing at Noah’s Ark. It’s been an eye-opening experience, she says.

“I’ve learned a lot about people and how much they love or don’t love animals,” she says.

“What I do know is that if people want to keep a pet, they can. If you’re in a difficult situation and truly want to keep your pet, give me a call at Noah’s Ark and I will try to help you.” ❚

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Better Nutrition: A Key to Good Health

By Peggy Werner

C

ircle of Wellness, 3626 E. State St., is expanding its staff and programming to help clients make better nutrition a top priority in their lives.

Free monthly seminars, health screenings, individual care plans and support groups to help people make positive lifestyle changes are in the works, says Leila MacQueen, owner.

“This year (2019) is our wellness year and we’re focused on the wellness part of our name,” says MacQueen.

“We’re going to help people realize just how good they can feel.”

To aid that effort, Karen Radtke, a holistic nurse practitioner for 18 years, board-certified health coach and founder of Integral Health Solutions, is partnering with Circle of Wellness.

She’ll speak on “Food as Medicine” from 5 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 17.

“The downfall of the American diet is all the sugar, saturated fats and processed foods we consume and it has a negative impact on our mental and physical wellbeing,” says Radtke. “By the time people decide they need help, they’re usually pre-diabetic, diabetic or have high blood pressure and want to manage or reverse their health condition with minimal or no medications. My job is to help them create an individualized road map to reach their goals.”

Diet, movement, stress management and sleep habits are interrelated and work together to produce optimum health, she says. People are most successful when they take a gradual approach, changing bad habits one at a time to make sustainable lifestyle changes.

“Statistics tell us that more than half of Americans are obese and have or will have health complications because of it,” Radtke says. “We used to describe Type

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II Diabetes as ‘adult onset diabetes,’ but now we’re seeing it in teens, and most cases are reversible or preventable.”

Circle of Wellness is “a body transformation center,” where people find treatment for pain and other conditions, via acupuncture, chiropractic services, cupping therapy, ionic foot detox, myofascial release, migraine therapy, stretching, breathing techniques, deep tissue massage and other specialty techniques.

Learn more at circleofwellnessrockford.com or call (779) 423-1700. ❚

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Have You Tested Your Home for Radon?

By Janine Pumilia

R

adon is the No. 1 cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, yet most of us don’t think about having our homes tested for it. Lora Gilbert, a licensed radon professional and owner of 815Radon, wants to change that.

“I just want to be sure people are safe in their homes,” says Gilbert, who lost her mother, a non-smoker, to lung cancer several years ago. “She spent a lot of time in her basement sewing room and we never even gave radon a thought back then.”

Decaying uranium deposits inside rock, soil and water produce radon gas. It seeps into the areas of our homes closest to the ground and accumulates. Because radon is invisible and odorless, testing is the only way to know if your home is putting your health at risk.

“There’s no predicting the presence of radon,” says Gilbert. “I’ve tested

homes next door to one another that have had very different radon levels. It doesn’t matter if the home is older or newer, either. In fact, newer, better-insulated homes may trap more of the gas.”

Two of five homes tested in Winnebago County harbor high levels of radon.

According to the Illinois Radon program, of the 118,447 homes tested across the state, more than 41 percent had radon levels above the recommended action point. Nearly 1,200 Illinois citizens die

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from radon-related lung cancer each year.

Inhaling radon can lead to cancer because radioactive particles damage cells in the linings of our lungs.

“People spend more and more time indoors, kids play video games by the hour in basements, and a lot of people work from home offices,” says Gilbert.

“All traditional workplaces should be tested, too.”

Gilbert charges $175 for a home radon test.

What do you do if you do have a radon problem?

“An affordable mitigation system can be installed that ventilates the soil beneath your foundation and funnels the radon outside the foundation so it can’t accumulate indoors,” says Gilbert. She doesn’t sell such mitigation systems but can help you to locate companies that do.

Learn more at 815radon.com or call Lora Gilbert at (815) 494-8286. ❚

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Unforgettable Art: An Affair for Alzheimer’s T he Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter will present 2019 Unforgettable Art: Annual Affair for Alzheimer’s on Saturday, April 27, at University of Illinois College of Medicine,1601 Parkview Ave., Rockford. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m.

This ever-growing event features 50 artists who will transform blank canvases into works of art while patrons, enjoying beverages and hors-d’oeuvres, look on.

Pieces will then be auctioned off at the end of the event.

One of Unforgettable Art’s lifetime artists, Siegfried Fritz, died in 2018. He donated his time and talents, during his last 15 years, to helping the fight against Alzheimer’s.

“Unforgettable Art was very important to him, artistically and because of all of the dear friendships that he built with the other participating artists and the members of the association that made

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the magic happen,” says Emmanuel Fritz, Sig’s nephew. In Sig’s honor, all participating artists will contribute to a blank canvas, and that unique piece of art will be given to Sig’s family.

Unforgettable Art hopes to bring in $65,000 to help end Alzheimer’s in Illinois.

More than 5 million people are living with Alzheimer’s disease in the U.S.; someone develops the disease every 65 seconds. In Illinois alone, there are 220,000 people who have Alzheimer’s and more than a half-million caregivers.

For more information, including sponsorship opportunities, contact Mary Sorensen, senior statewide director, Walk to End Alzheimer’s, at (815) 324-0356 or msorensen@alz.org.

The Alzheimer’s Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s research, care and support. Its mission is to eliminate

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Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter covers an 87-county area with offices in Chicago, Joliet, Rockford, Springfield, Bloomington, Peoria, Quincy and Carbondale.

Tickets are $60 or $80 for VIP tickets. VIP ticket holders receive a commemorative wine glass, preferred seating at the live auction and early event access.

Tickets are advanced-sale only and can be purchased by calling the local office at (815) 484-1300 or by going to unforgettableart.org. ❚

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

FAM: ‘I am American’ Now thru April 15, Tue.-Fri. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. noon-5 p.m. Immigrants and Native Americans explore the meaning of being Rockford, IL 61101 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com American. Freeport Art Museum, (815) 1259755, freeportartmuseum.org.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

Art Battle April 5, 6:30-9 p.m. A dozen local artists compete to win a solo show. (815) 968-2787, rockfordartmuseum.org.

Support local artists by purchasing their work during Spring ArtScene April 12 & 13.

‘The Little Girl Who Lives Down the Lane’ April 5-13, Fri.-Sat. 7:30 p.m.; April 13, 2 p.m.

Rynn Jacobs, a 13-year-old English girl, lives down a lonely lane with a father no one ever sees. What is her secret? Winneshiek Players Theatre, 28 W. Clark St., Freeport, (815) 2327023, winneshiekplayers.org.

Spring ArtScene April 12-13, Fri. 5-9 p.m., Sat. 4-9 p.m.

Galleries and studios all over Rockford host new exhibits of original works. Fun for the browser and the buyer. See website for locations. Info: Rockford Area Arts Council, (815) 963-6765, springartscene.com.

RSO: Brahms & Mendelssohn April 6, 7:30 p.m. Pieces include Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 2 in B flat major and Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 4 in A major.

Coronado PAC, (815) 965-0049, rockfordsymphony.com.

A Rhapsody in Sound!

April 14, 2 p.m. Guest pianist David Newman performs Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” and “The Pines of Rome” by Ottorino Respigi, among others. BJSO, Eaton Chapel, Beloit College, College and Chapin streets, Beloit, Wis., (608) 363-2755, beloit.edu.

Casting Crowns-Only Jesus Tour April 9, 7 p.m. Grammy-winning group Casting Crowns performs Christian music. (815) 9685222, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com.

Rick Lindy & The Wild Ones April 10-11, see website for times. The group entertains with classic retro rock of the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s. White Pines Inn, 6712 W. Pines Road, Mt. Morris, Ill., (815) 946-3817, whitepinesinn.com.

Music in the Museum: Tundras April 11, 6-8 p.m. Local psychedelic rock band Tundras entertains. Cash bar. RAM, Rockford, (815) 968-2787, rockfordartmuseum.org.

Iliza: Elder Millennial Tour April 18, 7 p.m. The comic performs stand up while sporting styles in classic looks from the late ’90s and early 2000s, using an official Spotify playlist with her favorite songs of the era. Coronado PAC, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

The Shufflers April 19, 7 p.m. The trio performs acoustic, soft rock songs from the ’60s through today.

Listening Room, Rockford, (815) 965-8903, rockfordlisteningroom.com.

Tom Mac April 12, 7 p.m. Mac’s range includes classical, Latin, jazz, rock, blues and folk. Listening Room, Rockford, (815) 965-8903, rockfordlisteningroom.com.

Last Acre April 26, 7 p.m. The father-daughter acoustic duo of Molly and Mark Mathewson plays original songs containing elements of folk, bluegrass and Americana. Listening Room, Rockford, (815) 965-8903, rockfordlisteningroom.com.

David Kalhouse April 12, 7:30 p.m. Known for his elegant musicianship, pianist Kalhouse has a repertoire spanning three centuries, with the music of Scarlatti and Bach, Beethoven and Chopin, and Legeti and Feldman. MPAC, Mendelssohn Hall, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.

'The Gathering' at Macktown April 27 & 28, 9 a.m. This Macktown Living History event lets you experience pre-1850s frontier life. Meet traders and trappers, French voyageurs and Native Americans. Enjoy food, demonstrations and black powder shooting.

Learn more by calling (815) 624-4200. ❚

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April 3

25

WDL

Restaurant of the Week

Tavern on Clark: Great Food, Friendly Atmosphere

By Peggy Werner

B

rothers-in-law Sam Sabani and Dan Isai decided to create an eatery and bar with top-quality food and a great atmosphere, where business partners, couples, family and friends could gather for all occasions. The result is Tavern on Clark, 755 Clark Dr..

“We were very intentional in creating what we describe as the classic American tavern, with a fresh, new, clean look, where there’s something for everyone,” says Sabani.

A full-service bar offers signature cocktails, an extensive wine list, about 40 bottled beers and eight domestic and imported drafts. Menu offerings include aged center-cut steaks and chops, fresh salads, flatbreads, appetizers, pasta and ribs. Lunch and dinner specials include a Friday fish fry and Saturday prime rib, as well as regular Ahi tuna, mahi mahi and

surf-and-turf deals.

“We spent a lot of time researching what people wanted,” says Isai.

“We offer quality you can’t find elsewhere.”

All steaks and hamburgers are made from USDA-certified Black Angus beef, and all menu items are made-to-order from fresh produce, locally grown when possible. Signature dishes include a 10-ounce certified Black Angus beef burger and craft ale beer-battered sidewinder sea-salted French fries, served with a Wisconsin Cheddar beer sauce. Desserts include carrot cake, chocolate cake, New York cheesecake and more.

The space is open and inviting, with plenty of natural light to showcase the quality décor of dark woods, stone walls, earth-toned granite countertops and por-

celain tile. Large booths seat six comfortably, and a private dining room, with a wall-mounted flat screen TV and a fireplace, seats 50 and can accommodate business meetings and presentations.

Tavern on Clark opens daily at 11 a.m. for lunch. Dinner is served until 10 p.m. on weekdays, 11 p.m. on weekends.

The bar is open later. ❚

In the Spotlight

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.

Backyard Grill & Bar  Casual/American. 5390 Elevator Road, Roscoe, Ill., (815) 623-6677. 2nd St., Loves Park, Ill., (815) 6369430. LD M-Th 11am-midnight, F-Sat to 2am, Sun noon-10 p.m. $-SS. Bravo Pizza  Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, S. 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. $$ Cucina di Rosa  Italian Bistro/Bakery 1620 Bell School Road, (815) 395-5040. BkLD. M-Sat 7am-9pm. $$ Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant  Casual/Mexican. 5855 E. State St., (815) 227-4979. LD $-$$.

398-5700. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11 pm.

GreenFire  Upscale-Casual/American contemporary. Live entertainment. 6795 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, (815) 3163473. 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. $-$$.

Lino’s  Italian/American. 5611 E. State St., Rkfd. (815) 397-2077. D M-Sat 4:30am-10pm; Sun. 4:30am-9 pm. $$.

Maciano’s  Casual Italian. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, (815) 633-7500; & 5801 Columbia Pkwy., Rkfd., (815) 227-5577. 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. $-$$.

Prairie Street Brewhouse  Upscale-Casual/American.

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

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

Salamone’s North  Italian-American. 2583 N. Mulford Road, Rkfd. LD. Sun. noon-10 p.m.; Mon.-Th 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat. noon-11 p.m. (815) 639-1200

Giordano’s  Casual/Italian. Stuffed pizza, salads, entrees, sandwiches, desserts. 33 Executive Parkway, Rockford, (815)

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

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To advertise call 815-316-2300

C

Cannova’s

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

Today, their granddaughter, Linda, and her husband, Patrick Beckman, carry on the tradition, at 1101 W. Empire St., Freeport. 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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Y M

Thinking Ahead Can Prevent Legal Woes

By Janine Pumilia

M

any adults are too young to remember the Terry Schiavo case that began in 1990, after Schiavo, age 26, suffered massive brain damage that left her in a persistent vegetative state. Her husband sought to remove her feeding tube, believing it’s what she would have wanted, but her parents fought him in court for 15 years.

By the time her tube was removed, in 2005, the case had seen 14 appeals in Florida courts, five suits in federal district court and extensive involvement by the Florida legislature, Gov. Jeb Bush, the U.S. Congress and President George Bush. Even the Vatican got involved.

This painful and expensive slugfest could have been avoided had Schiavo put her end-of-life wishes in writing before illness struck. But what 26-year-old thinks of doing that?

“After that case, the living will be-

came a hot topic,” says attorney Jim Meason. “It’s a written directive to your doctor that details your desire regarding medical treatment if you’re no longer able to say it.”

End-of-life planning isn’t just for the elderly, as Schiavo’s case proved. A sudden injury or illness can change anyone’s fate in a moment.

In addition to preparing a living will, every adult should specify a power of attorney for healthcare decisions and for property. And if you live in Illinois and your total assets, including your home, exceed $100,000 ($50,000 in Wisconsin), you should prepare a trust, says Meason.

“Some advanced planning can prevent so much heartache and frustration for the people you leave behind,” says Meason. “It doesn’t take long to do and is way less expensive and time-consuming than if your estate has to go through the probate process.”

Tell them you saw it in ...

It’s easy to avoid thinking about endof-life issues.

“None of us wants to deal with our mortality,” says Meason. “And really, a lot of people just aren’t used to paying for the professional services of an attorney.

But my typical client is someone who knows someone who just went through a nightmare because someone else didn’t think ahead and left a mess behind for others to deal with.”

Meason’s services include family law, estate planning, real estate, business law and environmental law. Find him at 113 N. Main St. in Rockton, Ill., go to measonlaw.com or call (815) 624-6517. ❚

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