Smart Living Weekly March 20, 2019

Sm mart a r t L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • March 20, 2019

™

Right in Our Region

It’s School Day at ‘The Great War’

See Page 16

How to Nurture Your ‘Kid’ Yes, You Do Need a Lawyer RVC Hosts Science Olympiad Tips for a Less Stressful Renovation How’s Your Central Nervous System?

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$25 Gift Card from Capital House See Pg. 28 Details

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You Deserve Brenda’s Unsurpassed Service Brenda Baney-Tufly, Gambino Realtors Here’s What Brenda’s Customers Have to Say:

My agent Brenda Baney-Tufly is the best agent I have had to date. I have bought and sold homes before and Brenda went above and beyond what I expected a Realtor to do in fact she has now set the bar on how I would evaluate and agent now. She took the time and listened to everything I said and found me my new

home fitting the criteria I had given her. She did not waste my time which was very much appreciated. Brenda is truly an asset to Gambino Realtors. I must assume Gambino Realtors also has their criteria set high for any agent working for Gambino. Great job and will most definitely use Gambino in the future. Highest marks given to you!

Jeffery H. 815-988-3476 • bbaney@gogambino.com See more of my testimonials at my website: GoGambino.com/bbaney

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 16 School Day at Midway Village ‘The Great War’ Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 A Less Stressful Renovation Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Humility, Not Hubris Your Kitchen .....................................................15 American-Irish Stew Your Outing ................................................ 19, 20 RVC Science Olympiad; Gala at Grace Preschool Your Community ...............................................21 A Special Spot for Kids Your Health ............................................. .......... 23 How’s Your Central Nervous System?

Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25 Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 The Butterfly Club Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 26 Your Money .............................................. ......... 29 Yes,You Do Need a Lawyer

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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Eyes on the Sky T

his is a great week to look up! Something is happening that only occurs about three times each century.

Not only does the Spring Equinox occur today, Wednesday, March 20, at 4:58 p.m.

CST, but it coincides exactly with a full moon.

That hasn’t happened since 2000. The next time will be in 2030.

On top of that, this will be a “super moon,” the third and final one this year. These occur when the moon is especially close to Earth and appears larger and brighter than usual. Our most recent one was Feb. 19.

The Spring (or Vernal) Equinox is the day the sun rises and sets precisely due east and due west. It always occurs between March 19 and 21, when the sun crosses the celestial equator and our day contains equal parts sunlight and darkness.

All of this celestial activity accounts for the date Easter is set each year, between March 22 and April 25. Easter is the first Sunday after the full moon that occurs on or after the spring equinox. By that logic, it seems Easter should be this coming Sunday, March 24, right? But it’s not. The church goes

by March 21 for the spring equinox date each year, even though it’s not always celestially precise. So that pushes Easter to a late April 21 this year.

There are many names for the March full moon, including Full Worm Moon, Full Sap Moon and Paschal Moon, the latter a reference to “Pascha,” from the Aramaic word for “Passover.” In scripture, the resurrection of Christ happened during the Jewish Passover season, which celebrates Israel’s escape from Egyptian bondage. Jews who put lamb’s blood on their doorposts were “passed over” by the 10th plague of Egypt, which killed firstborn children. About 1,000 years before Jesus Christ was born, the prophet Isaiah predicted the coming of a Messiah who would be our “Passover lamb,” sparing us from eternal death just as the lamb’s blood spared those first-born Israelite children.

The worm and sap references relate to the ground softening and sap running again in trees during this full moon week of March.

Look skyward and have a great week! ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor

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Y H  G

Tips for a Smooth Kitchen or Bath Remodel

By Janine Pumilia

T

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 serves customers within a 65-mile radius, including Rockford, Freeport, 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 particular subcontractor. When you do a re-

model 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 candhdesigncenter. com or call (815) 547-8453. ❚

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I  W

Humility, Not Hubris

M

any things seem murky to us, in scripture, but some are very clear. One of the clearest is God’s view of arrogance.

In hundreds of verses throughout the Old and New Testaments, God condemns arrogance and exalts humility. Indeed, it was Lucifer’s excessive pride that got him kicked out of Heaven. God told him: “Since your vast business planning filled you with violent intent from top to bottom, you sinned, so I cast you away as defiled from the mountain of God ... Your heart grew arrogant because of your beauty; you annihilated your own wisdom because of your splendor. Then I threw you to the ground in the presence of kings, giving them a good look at you!” (Eze-

kiel 28:16-19, ISV) Proverbs 11:2 tells us, “When pride

comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.”

King David, the only human God referred to as “a man after my own heart,” (I Sam. 13:14 & Acts 13:22), expressed humility. “O Lord, my heart is not lifted up; my eyes

are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me.” (Psalm 131:1) Jeremiah 9:23 tells us, “... Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches …”

Jesus told his followers in Luke 14:11 (ESV): “For everyone who exalts himself will

be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” When his disciples argued over

which of them was greatest, Jesus told them:

“If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.” (Mark 9:35) Paul instructs, in Philippians 2:3: “Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.”

And in James 4:6: “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

How should we view conceit? “So be imitators of God, as his dear children. Live lovingly, just as the Messiah also loved us and gave himself for us as an offering and sacrifice, a fragrant aroma to God.” ❚ – Janine Pumilia 12

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Y K

A Healthful American Irish Stew Recipe

D

idn’t get enough Irish cooking last week on St. Patrick’s Day? Here’s a healthful take on an American Irish Stew that’s much less salty than corned beef and cabbage. It’s packed with healthful vegetables and is also long on flavor.

For more themed recipes for any occasion, visit culinary.net.

American Irish Stew

Reprinted with permission from the American Institute for Cancer Research Servings: 6

1 Tb. extra-virgin olive oil 1 1/4 pounds beef, top round, cut into 3/4-inch pieces 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 medium onion, coarsely chopped 3 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch pieces 2 medium parsnips, cut into large chunks (optional) 3 cups low-fat, reduced-sodium beef broth 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled

and cut into large chunks 1 Tb. chopped fresh rosemary 1 leek, coarsely chopped 2 Tb. chopped fresh parsley Salt and peper to taste

In large pot over mediumhigh heat, heat oil. Add beef and garlic. Cook, gently stirring until meat is evenly browned. Season with salt and pepper.

Add onion, carrots and parsnips. Cook 3-4 minutes. Stir in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer about 75 minutes, or until meat is tender.

Stir in potatoes and simmer another 30 minutes. Add rosemary and leeks.

Continue to simmer, uncovered, until potatoes are tender. To avoid potatoes falling apart, do not overcook.

Serve hot and garnish with parsley.

Nutritional information per serving: 370 calories, 8 g total fat (2 g saturated fat), 43 g carbohydrate, 32 g protein, 6 g dietary fiber, 427 mg sodium.

Source: Family Features. Photo courtesy of Getty Images

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R  O R

It’s School Day at ‘The Great War’ on April 5 O

n the weekend of April 6 and 7, Midway Village Museum will host the 7th annual The Great War event, the largest public World War I military reenactment in the nation. And on Friday, April 5, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., students are invited to get a sneak peek as the event opens just for them during “The Great War: WWI School Day.” “The School Day offers a way more immersive experience for students, since they have an opportunity to interact with the 220 re-enactors while far fewer people are on the grounds,” says Alyssa McGhyghy, museum special events coordinator. “The re-enactors love teaching what they know about the war.”

There are activities for students age third grade through high school. Students can visit camps, try out the training course, tour the WWI trench system, watch a presentation about WW I aviation and meet Salvation Army Donut Lassies.

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To learn more about the School Day event, call McGhghy at (815) 397-9112 ext. 104 or email her at specialevents@ midwayvillage.com. Teachers should sign up their classes by March 28.

The April 6 and 7 The Great War event will feature re-enactors portraying soldiers and civilians from the U.S. and Europe, using the museum’s historic village as a backdrop.

Attractions include: • WWI tanks, including a replica of the FT-17 French tank • Large scale WWI model airplane displays and flying demonstrations • An exclusive replica of a Trench Train, known as a Tin Turtle • Elaborate displays of WWI weapons, equipment, and artifacts • Cavalry units • Lectures throughout the day by military experts • Salvation Army Donut Lassies

March 20 To advertise call 815-316-2300

• Live musical performers with songs from the 1910s • Militaria sales vendors with real and replicated WWI equipment, clothing, books and artifacts • Refreshments sold by local vendors The following are among guest speakers: Cindy Herman – Suffragettes and WWI Noon, April 6 & 7 Cindy Herman will explore the role that Illinois suffragettes played in establishing the women’s right to vote. She’ll also look at the fashion and accessories used by suffragettes.

Terry Dyer – Camp Grant 12:30 p.m., April 6 & 7 When the U.S. entered WWI, the City of Rockford was chosen to receive one of 16 new Army Training Centers being built across the country. Hear how pristine farmland was transformed into this massive army facility just 5 miles south of Rockford. Dyer will

R  O R

A Silent Film Event On Saturday evening, April 5, the Midway Village Museum Traveling Bijou Theater will feature silent films

by Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton, plus Midway Village Museum The Great War: World War Footage by Jorg Rochlitzer, with live accompaniment by the Rockford Wind Ensemble. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the showing begins at 7 p.m.

Admission is $10 for adults; $5 children ages 3-17; $5 for adult members and re-enactors; $3 for child members and re-enactors ages 3-17. Call or stop by the Museum Gift Store for advance tickets or buy tickets at the showing.

Admission excludes The Great War: World War I military re-enactment. ❚

explain how the camp forever changed the demographics of Rockford and Northern Illinois.

host of Cossacks led during the Russian Revolution. He’ll also play authentic Russian folk music on his instrument, the balalaika!

Bruce Olson – Flu Pandemic of 1918 and Its Effect on the Great War 1 p.m., April 6 & 7 Speaker Bruce Olson will speak about the deadly influenza pandemic of 1918-1919, known as the “Spanish Flu.” He has personal ties to The Great War, as his paternal grandfather, Fed C. Olson, Sr., was funeral director and Winnebago County Coroner at the time and was directly involved in the care of hundreds of deceased soldiers at Camp Grant. His paternal grandmother, Ada Olson, died of the flu in the fall of 1918, and his maternal grandfather, Clyde P. Stollar, was trained as a medic at Camp Grant.

Robert Laplander – Doughboy MIA 2:30 p.m., April 6 & 7 During WWI, America initiated the policy of ‘no man left behind’ and went to great lengths to ensure that it was followed. Yet, of the 116,000 American deaths by the end of the war, some 4,423 military members remained unaccounted for – missing in action.

They still are. The organization Doughboy MIA is determined to make as full accounting as possible of these men. Hear their story.

David Wiedenkeller – A Russian Cossack Life 1:30 p.m., April 6 & 7 Hear the fascinating tales of an obscure people living in and around Russia. The history of the Cossacks is shrouded in legends, misconceptions and mystery. Listen as Sergey Krasnov tells of the struggles that the Kuban

Admission to the The Great War is $12 for adults, $6 for children ages 3-17, and free to members of Midway Village Museum. It doesn’t include the silent film event on Saturday evening.

For assistance with mobility, call the museum ahead of the event.

Learn more at midwayvillage.com, or by calling (815) 397-9112. ❚

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Y O

Kids Spot Offers Classes, Summer Camps

By Peggy Werner ids Spot, 9461 N. 2nd St., in Roscoe, Ill., has been growing by leaps and bounds.

The center serves kids ages 18 months to 18 years, by offering classes in gymnastics, tumbling and trampoline, cheerleading, dance and home school gymnastics, plus cartwheel clinics.

Kids Spot started out as a small storefront 15 years ago and today is turning out award-winning athletes in the areas of dance, gymnastics and cheerleading, says Ben Childers, office manager and marketing director.

Kids Spot’s Turning Point Dance Company, under the direction of Kim Dailey since 2005, was recently the highest-scoring group at Imagine Dance Challenge in Prairie Du Sac, Wis. For that reason and more, this year is Kids Spot’s highest enrollment season ever, Childers says, with 1,300 kids walk-

K

ing through the doors each week.

“Being active is important and we take it to a whole new level,” says Childers. “These kids are not just playing sports, they’re building life skills that will serve them well the rest of their lives, like problem solving, sportsmanship, being a team player and developing communication and social skills.”

In summer, Camp Kids Spot runs from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, June 3 through Aug. 9.

Kids ages 4 to 14 must sign up soon to be guaranteed a place, Childers says.

The camp is accepting 65 kids this year, adding that those wanting to come in only on certain days or when available also must register, by calling (815) 6235437 going to KidsSpotinc.com.

Each camp week offers a different theme and includes a field trip on Thursday, to places like Henry Villas Zoo, San-

ta’s Village, Shedd Aquarium, Madison Children’s Museum and more.

Childers says Kids Spot is successful because of the co-owners, Susan Johnson and Teresa Maloney, who create programs as they see needs arise. They want everyone, including the staff, to be lifelong learners.

In addition to activities for kids, Jazzercise classes for adults take place each morning and SeniorSpot is at 11 a.m. every Monday for those who want to participate in dance classes and games. ❚

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FOR AGES 4March 20

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Y O

Preschool Celebrates 75th with March 23 Gala I

n 1944, three years before Loves Park officially became a city, Grace Lutheran Church opened Grace Preschool to serve the many families moving to the area during and after World War II. The preschool fast became a community fixture that still serves families today.

Grace Preschool invites the public to its 75th anniversary celebration for a night of music, dinner and festivities on March 23 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the church, 343 Grand Ave., Loves Park. Tickets cost $20 and childcare is available for $5 per child.

All funds will go toward school improvement to help Grace Preschool thrive for the next 75 years.

A hearty lasagna dinner will be served and alumni will perform. There will be opportunities to win gift baskets and to catch up with Grace Preschool alumni past and present.

This year, the preschool serves 110

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students and their families. Through the decades, many thousands of students have been taught that they’re “loved and are capable of doing great things.” It’s a message that hasn’t changed for 75 years, although most everything else in Loves Park has changed.

According to the 1950 U.S. Census, about 5,400 Loves Park residents had a median income of about $4,000 per year, when Grace Preschool was in its early years. There were just five TV sets in Loves Park in 1950.

Today, about 23,000 people live in Loves Park and 88 percent of households have a computer. The median household income is about $52,000.

Although Loves Park didn’t officially incorporate until 1947, families lived in the area since the 1920s. The community is named for Malcolm and Rose Love, who purchased a large tract of riverfront farmland there in 1901 and devel-

March 20 To advertise call 815-316-2300

oped it into a private park.

The first Grace Lutheran Church building was dedicated on Christmas day in 1924, at its present location on 2.5 acres of land between Grand Avenue and River Lane. When Grace Preschool opened in 1944, under the leadership of the Rev. Will T. Chell, it played a key role in community development by introducing new community members to Loves Park. ❚

Y C

RVC to Host 35th Annual Science Olympiad F or 35 years now, the Science Olympiad has led a revolution in science education. What began as a grassroots assembly of science teachers is now one of the premier science competitions in the nation, providing rigorous, standardsbased challenges to 7,400 teams in 50 states.

Science Olympiad’s ever-changing lineup of events in all STEM (Science, Technology, and Math) disciplines exposes students to practicing scientists and career choices and energizes classroom teachers with a dynamic content experience.

Rock Valley College will host a Science Olympiad Regional Competition for more than 500 middle and high school students on Saturday, March 23. The event will take place from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the RVC main campus, 3301 N. Mulford Road, with an awards ceremony at 4 p.m.

Students will compete in events such as Experimental Design, Thermodynamics, Forensics, Disease Detectives andmore.

The top students in each event will receive medals, while the top high school and middle school teams will advance to the state tournament at the University of Illinois in Champaign/Urbana on Saturday, April 13, 2019. Then the top two teams from Illinois will advance to the national competition held on May 18 at Colorado State University.

The following schools (Rockford and Elgin regions) are scheduled to compete in this year’s Science Olympiad: Middle Schools: Durand Junior High School, Eisenhower Middle School, Harlem Middle School, Marshall Middle School, Rockford Christian Middle School, Rockford Lutheran Middle School, Roscoe Middle School, Winnebago Middle School, Keith Country

Day School, Larsen M.S,., Eastview M.S. Canton M.S., Abbott M.S., and Ellis M.S. High Schools: Auburn High School, South Beloit High School, Belvidere High School, Belvidere North High School, Boylan Catholic High School, Durand High School, Guilford High School, Harlem High School, , Rockford Christian High School, Rockford Iqra High School, Streamwood High School, Bartlett High School and South Elgin High School.

For more information, contact Elizabeth Russo, RVC Professor of Life Science, at e.russo@rockvalleycollege.edu or (815) 921-3477. ❚

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Y H

How Is Your Central Nervous System?

By Peggy Werner

T

he beginning of the year is a time when many people take a personal inventory of bad health habits and how to change them – all leading to better health.

Although we all know the benefits of stress management, proper nutrition, rest and exercise, we may not be aware of how vital a healthy central nervous system is to experiencing success in all these areas, says Chiropractor Kory Spear of The Joint, at Forest Plaza, at 6139 E. State St., Rockford, next to Kohl’s.

“It all works hand in hand,” says Spear. “If you’re stressed, you can’t sleep well; if you can’t sleep well, you can’t handle stress. If a person isn’t eating right and getting enough rest, energy levels suffer and they’re more prone to injury.

I believe wellness is about continual improvement and is not a goal, but an ongoing process.”

Chiropractors specialize in the proper alignment of the spine to control pain, tightness, inflammation, tenderness and other problems.

The spine and brain make up the central nervous system, which is the main communication center in the body. Unless everything is in alignment, the communication lines are impaired and the body can’t function at optimal levels, Spear says.

People are not always aware they need an adjustment, but often see improvement when they have one, he says.

The Joint is a new concept in chiropractic care, with 440 locations nationwide that offer more affordable and convenient adjustment appointments by not accepting insurance. The Joint accepts walk-ins from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday.

Current specials include a $29 new patient offer for a consultation, exam and adjustment, as well as a “wellness package” of four visits per month for $59 – good at any location.

New patients may call to schedule an appointment, but follow-up visits are walkin only.

The Joint staff includes Clinic Owner and Director Dr. Dan Cammarano of Aurora and Illinois Board Certified Chiropractors Dr. John Staranko, and Spear.

Learn more at thejoint.com or call the clinic at (815) 977-4316. ❚

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March 20

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

Concert for Children of all Ages March 21, 7:30 p.m. Featuring Bizet’s “Ferdinand the Bull,” among others. Beloit Janesville Symphony (BSJO), JPAC Janesville, (608) 758-0297, beloitjanesfillesymphony.org.

Grant Maloy Smith March 22, 7 p.m. An American Roots singersongwriter with a country bent, Smith tells heartfelt stories about real people who are optimistic. Listening Room, Rockford, (815) 965-8903, rockfordlisteningroom.com.

AE: ‘Chapatti’ March 22-24, Fri.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 4 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. The warm story of two lonely animal lovers who cross paths in Dublin: Dan and his dog Chapatti, and Betty and her 19 cats.

Will human companionship overcome the dog/cat preferences? AE, Rockford University, (815) 394-5004, artistsensemble.org. [usual]Suspects Reads…Clue March 23, 6-10 p.m. The theater company tackles the screenplay for the 1985 film “Clue” as seven guests, a butler and a maid are invited to a dinner party with murders. Nordlof Center. Info: rockfordpubliclibrary.org.

Paula Cole March 23, 7:30 p.m. Cole performs from the anthology of her original work, created over 20 years. JPAC, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.

Rockford Laugh-A-Thon March 23, 7:30 p.m. With Corey Holcomb, Don “DC” Curry, D.C. Young Fly, Comedian J.J. and T-Dot. Coronado PAC, Rockford, (815) 9680595, coronadopac.org.

Blackberry Smoke March 24, 7:30 p.m. The Southern Rock band entertains with its “Break It Down Tour,” its first-ever acoustic tour. Coronado PAC, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

‘The Sound of Music’ March 26, 7:30 p.m. Rogers and Hammerstein’s beloved musical story of Maria and the Von

Enjoy the Rockford Laugh-a-Thon March 23 at the Coronado.

Trapp family. Score includes “My Favorite Things,” "Edelweiss” and “The Sound of Music.” Coronado PAC, Rockford, (815) 9680595, coronadopac.org.

Red Hot Chilli Pipers March 29, 8 p.m. This nine-piece ensemble, consisting of pipers, guitarists, keyboardists and drummers, entertains with a fusion of rock anthems and tunes from Scotland.

Egyptian Theatre, DeKalb, Ill., (815) 758-1215, egyptiantheatre.org.

Improv Comedy Troupe March 29, 8 p.m. Local improvisors pick audience suggestions and create a spontaneous comedy show. JPAC, Janesville, (608) 7580297, janesvillepac.org.

Orlando Peña March 29, 7 p.m. Singer-songwriter Peña entertains with traditional folk and country music using modern instrumentation and rhythms. Listening Room, Rockford, (815) 9658903, rockfordlisteningroom.com.

Randy Sabien March 30, 7-9 p.m. Entertainment by jazz violinist, composer and music educator Sabien. Spring Creek United Church of Christ, Rockford, (815) 877-2576, springcreekucc.org.

One Night of Queen March 30, 8 p.m. Gary Mullen and The Works re-create the look, sound, pomp and showmanship of the iconic rock band. Coronado PAC, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

Art Battle April 5, 6:30-9 p.m. A dozen local artists compete to win a solo show at the museum.

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

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WDL

The Freshest of Meats at the Butterfly Club

By Jermaine Pigee, assistant managing editor

A

t The Butterfly Club, one cut of meat reigns supreme.

“Our signature dish is the filet mignon,” says Hektor Sala, who owns the popular fine dining restaurant with his brother, Mike. “Steak is our main focus and the filets are the most ordered item on the menu.”

The Butterfly Club, 5246 E. Country Road X, Beloit, is a sprawling, historic restaurant with a large bar, oversized windows and a relaxed atmosphere.

“The bar area is just amazing,” Sala says. “There’s also a beautiful view on the back of the building. People can eat while looking at the trees and wildlife outside.”

The Butterfly Club’s storied history dates back to 1924, when Hal and Mae Sherburne opened the establishment, then called the Butterfly Tea Room.

Today it’s all about the steaks at The Butterfly Club. The restaurant serves New York strip, boneless rib-eye, the popular filet mignon and prime rib, a tradition for more than 50 years.

“The meat comes fresh everyday and I cut the meat myself, so nothing is frozen,” Sala says. Cutting his own meat enables Sala to prepare custom orders.

“If someone wants a 20-ounce filet, we can clean it and chop it back here,” he says. “We can special cut the meat however people want it.”

The menu is loaded with other restaurant favorites as well, such as panfried or broiled walleye, grilled salmon and chicken Parmesan. There are Mediterranean items on the menu including rack of lamb, which is served with mint jelly sauce.

The restaurant offers a fish fry on

Mike and Hektor Sala.

Wednesdays and Fridays that includes Icelandic and Alaskan cod; and golden brown fried chicken on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Beer and spirit selections and an extensive wine list complete the menu.

“We have good food at reasonable prices,” Sala says. “We want to make sure that people come here happy and they leave happy.” ❚

In the Spotlight

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Baci’s Kitchen E 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 E 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 E Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, S. Beloit, Ill., (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $.

Capital House E 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 EUpscale-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. $$ Cucina di Rosa E Italian Bistro/Bakery 1620 Bell School Road, (815) 395-5040. BkLD. M-Sat 7am-9pm. $$ Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Mexican. 5855 E. State St., (815) 227-4979. LD $-$$.

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

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

Maciano’s E 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 E 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 E 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. E Casual/American Café. 318 Spring Creek Road, (815) 316-2256. BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$

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

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

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March 20 To advertise call 815-316-2300

L

Taco Betty’s

ocated at 212 E. State St., next to the Rock River, this trendy, casual kitchen serves up innovative tacos with signature twists like pork and pineapple or crispy fish with roasted corn, dried chiles, cilantro, onion and avocado-lime mayo. The tacos come in pairs for lunch and threesomes for dinner. Recipes are subject to change with the seasons or whenever the chef feels like it.

Other items on the menu include chicken verde nachos, chicken taquitos, taco salad and guacamole with chips.

Margaritas and other bar drinks are made with fresh juice squeezed daily.

The entrance to Taco Betty’s faces State Street and the restaurant has large west-facing windows that offer natural light and front-seat views of Rockford City Market on Fridays and the river.

Taco Betty’s opens daily at 11 a.m. The kitchen closes at 10 p.m. Sun.-Thurs. and at 11 p.m. Fri. and Sat. ❚

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Y M

Yes, You Really Do Need a Lawyer

By Janine Pumilia

A

ttorney James Meason has practiced in some of the largest cities of the country. But opening his own law office in Rockton, Ill., in 1997, was one of the best decisions he ever made.

“By being a small-town attorney, I can really help people,” he says. “I grew up in a working class neighborhood of Chicago, went to public school and was the first person in my family to attend college. I know how hard people work.

I hate to see how some attorneys complicate things in order to charge more money. Sometimes they build you a lunar module when all you need is a mini van.”

One thing all adults do need, however, regardless of age, is to put into writing end-of-life wishes related to healthcare and assets, with help from an attorney, says Meason.

A living will is a directive to your

doctor that documents your ideas on what, if any, extraordinary measures you’d want taken to prolong your life if you were incapacitated by illness or injury. This can happen to anyone at any age, as the case of 26-year-old Terry Schiavo demonstrated in 1990. That landmark case dragged out for 15 years because Schiavo’s wishes were undocumented.

“Everyone, regardless of their financial situation, should name a power of attorney for healthcare and also a power of attorney for handling finances,” says Meason. “And, everyone should have a will. By law, if your assets are greater than $100,000, (that includes your home), you should have a trust set up to prevent your heirs from having to send your estate through the lengthy and costly probate process.” That threshold is just $50,000 in Wisconsin.

Seeking legal help makes sense at

many other key moments in life, too.

“You would not believe the messes people find themselves in because they didn’t consult an attorney when Attorney James Meason setting up their business or closing a real estate transaction, for example,” says Meason.

He cautions it’s risky to take a “do it yourself” approach to law.

“You get what you pay for.”

Meason’s services include family law, estate planning, real estate, business law, mediation and environmental law.

Find him at 113 N. Main St. in Rockton, Ill., or go to measonlaw.com or call (815) 624-6517. ❚

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