Smart Living Weekly September 18, 2019

iving n g Sm mart a r t L ivi ivin ng Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • Sept. 18, 2019

™

Right in Our Region

‘Fall for Rockford’ Festival Fun Sept. 21 See Page 16

How to Build Your Nest Egg Sudsy Science Fun at Bubblefest!

Dealing with Water in Your Home What to Ask When Furniture Shopping

FREE WIN!

2 Passes to the Discovery Center

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!

Smart Living Weekly

Issue 1

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 16 Fall for Rockford Festival!

Your Home ............................................ ..... 11, 19 Dealing with Wet Homes; Furniture-Buying Tips Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Justice Loves Truth Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Sweet Treats for Autumn Your Community ...............................................21 Hunger Pack-a-Thon Sept. 27 Your Health ............................................. .......... 23 A New Way to Do Braces Your Outing ............................................. .......... 24 Bubblefest at Discovery Center!

Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 Baci’s Kitchen-Cafe Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 26 Your Money .............................................. ......... 29 How to Build Your Nest Egg

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Lindsey Gapen Lukas 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 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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Ignorance Isn’t Bliss

T

he late poet Maya Angelou said: “History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived, but if faced with courage, need not be lived again.”

But ... if we know nothing about history, how do we avoid repeating its mistakes, much less face it with courage? Our ignorance nearly guarantees we’ll fall for the same bad tricks of cunning leaders who’ll take us down the same bad roads our ancestors regretted trodding.

On the bright side, we’ve at times learned from history and changed our course of action for the better because of it. An obvious example is the end of World War II, which we handled more skillfully than the end of World War I. Helping to rebuild Germany was far wiser than leaving it in the kind of desperation that led otherwise sensible Germans to follow charismatic Hitler and hand him absolute power.

(Unchecked power is never a good idea. Think of Napoleon and Stalin).

Europe also corrected its course. It found a way to prevent countries from invading one another (and starting new world wars!) when it formed NATO. All NATO members agreed to protect each other from invaders.

As our society gravitates toward “practical” education and away from well-rounded education that includes history, humanities and science, our collective ignorance grows.

This is one reason we locals are so fortunate to have Midway Village Museum, where we can learn history through fun events like the upcoming World War II Days this weekend – perhaps the finest event of its kind in the country. Such events spark curiosity in the young and provide serious learners with a chance to chat with reenactors from across the world. Reenactors don’t just play dress-up and ride cool vehicles; they know their history and eagerly share it.

Being a good citizen means understanding the foundation of our country and learning from its achievements and mistakes alike.

Angelou wasn’t kidding about the wrenching pain. Why would we want to repeat it?

Students are in back-to-school mode this month, but why should they have all the fun? The joy of lifelong learning is available to us all.

Have a smart week! ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor

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You Deserve Mary’s Unsurpassed Service Mary Shreve, Gambino Realtors

Here’s What Mary’s Customers Have to Say:

I recently had the pleasure of having Mary Shreve help in finding my first home. Mary took everything i had told her i wanted and found multiple houses that fit the criteria i had given her along with the price range i wanted. after about 2-3 weeks of working with Mary we found an amazing all brick home with a 2 car attached garage fenced yard 3 bedrooms and 1.5 baths the perfect house to fit not only myself but my family of 4. The payments are right on point for what i wanted and i have EVERYTHING i wanted .

A. Reed 815-262-7726 • mshreve@gogambino.com.

See more of my testimonials at my website: GoGambino.com/mshreve

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Y H  G

Wet Conditions Challenge Homeowners

By Peggy Werner

A

n exceptionally wet year in the Stateline leaves homeowners with water seeping into places it has never gone before.

“We’re experiencing the highest number of calls from homeowners we have ever seen,” says Chris Picot, general manager of Advantage Kwik Dry, 11137 Bertram Road in Machesney Park. This is the parent company of Flood Pros, which

specializes in insurance claims and offers full-service clean-up and reconstruction services to homes and businesses damaged by water.

When the ground gets saturated and water levels rise, moisture can seep into cracks and crevices, often where walls meet the foundation floor, and in other places that are not usually a problem during drier conditions, he says.

Window wells are an especially weak area in a home and it’s important to drain water away from them. One technique is to rehab the window well area by digging about two feet deep into the ground, removing dirt, rock, and other debris, and filling the area with pea gravel, which allows the rain water to drain better.

When water damage occurs, it’s important to get professional help

quickly, says Picot, to prevent further damage and mold.

People who try to remedy a situation on their own may regret it, he says.

Professionals not only have the highpowered cleaning and drying equipment needed to do a job, but also have moisture meters and other tools to detect moisture and determine when an area is completely dry.

Picot recommends setting furnace/ air conditioning fans on at least medium, in humid weather, to keep air circulating, especially if carpets have been cleaned or moisture is in the home.

Flood Pro technicians are licensed, bonded, insured and guarantee their work.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (815) 332-3299 in Illinois or (608) 758-2379 in southern Wisconsin. ❚

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I  W

Justice Loves Truth

J

ustice is a concept of key importance in the Bible. Our just God expects us to behave justly to all people.

A frequent companion of justice in scripture is truth.

“For the word of the Lord is right and true; he is faithful in all he does. The Lord loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love.” – Psalm

33:4 & 5

“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” – Micah 6:8 Without real commitment to “tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth,” there is no justice. Truth is so important that God made the eighth commandment: “Thou shall not bear false witness against thy neighbor.”

How many human souls languish in prisons, both literal and mental, unjustly convicted by false witness of dictators or other selfish humans who find lies more convenient than truth? Such obstruction of justice is an abomination to God. Both testaments tell us God wants justice meted out evenly to all people.

“Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the great, but judge your neighbor fairly.” – Leviticus 19:15

This concept undergirds a U.S. belief in the rights of the accused to receive a fair trial and legitimate defense. As in all areas of life, the strong are expected to help the weak realize their God-given rights.

“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”

– Proverbs 31:8 & 9.

God promises a future of justice to those with faith in Jesus Christ.

“In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth.”

- Isaiah 42:4

Until then, our job is to uphold blind justice and truth, however inconvenient this may be to us personally.

“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” – Matthew 25:40. ❚ (All verses NIV).

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– Janine Pumilia

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Sweet Autumn Treats A

pple butter is a secret ingredient that makes these recipes easy. Find more at musselmans.com.

Caramel Crumble Bars 1 1/2 3/4 1 1 2/3 2/3 2

box (15.25 oz.) yellow cake mix cup soft butter plus 2 TB, divided cup + 3 TB Apple Butter egg pkg. (11 oz.) caramels, unwrapped cup walnuts, chopped cup flaked coconut, sweetened TB melted butter

Heat oven to 350 F. Grease 13-by-9-inch baking pan.

Beat dry cake mix and 1/2 cup softened butter until crumbly. Spoon 1 cup into medium bowl & set aside.

Add 3/4 cup apple butter and egg to remaining mixture. Beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Spread evenly into pan. Bake 20 minutes.

Place caramels, 2 TB butter and remaining apple butter in microwavable bowl. Microwave on high 3-4 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.

Pour caramel mixture evenly over partially baked crust. If caramel has set, microwave 1 minute until pourable.

Combine walnuts, coconut and 2 TB melted butter with reserved cake mix mixture. Mix until crumbly.

Break up topping and sprinkle evenly over caramel. Bake 16-18 minutes. Cool completely before cutting into bars.

Easy Apple Pie Bars

Nonstick cooking spray 7 cups Granny Smith apples, diced 1 cup Musselman’s Apple Butter 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract, divided 1/2 cup brown sugar 2 frozen pie crusts, defrosted 1 egg white 2 TB sugar 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon 1 cup powdered sugar 2 TB milk

Heat oven to 350 F. Grease 9-by-13 pan.

To diced apples add apple butter, 1 tsp. vanilla and brown sugar. Mix until apples are evenly coated.

Y K

Slowly stretch out one crust to cover pan’s bottom. Cut some edges off, if necessary. Spread apple filling evenly.

With rolling pin, roll second crust to make it same size as pan. Place on top of filling and tuck down edges to cover.

Topping: Whisk egg white until foamy and brush over crust. Combine sugar and cinnamon, and sprinkle on top.

Bake 50-60 minutes until crust is golden brown. Remove from oven and cool slightly before cutting.

Glaze: In small bowl, whisk until smooth powdered sugar, milk and remaining vanilla. Drizzle over cooled bars and serve. ❚ Source: Family Features

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R  O R

Music, Food & Fun at 2nd ‘Fall for Rockford’ F

all, food and fun go together so well.

Throw in great music and a beloved downtown river atmosphere and you have all the ingredients for a terrific community event. At least that’s what members of the River District Association thought when they planned the first Fall for Rockford food and music festival last year. Their hunch proved correct when more than 5,500 people joined in the fun.

This year’s Fall for Rockford promises even more local food vendors and an

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exciting music lineup with artists from all over the country. It will take place from 2 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21, in the 100 and 200 blocks of North Main Street in downtown’s historic River District. Admission is free. More than a dozen local restaurants will sell signature menu items for a taste of Rockford.

The performers have been carefully chosen.

“We’re very excited about this year’s lineup,” says Missy Minnaert, executive director of the River District Association. “The artists we’ve secured span a wide variety of musical genres and we’re confident they’ll bring a contagious energy to our festival.”

The headliner is Muscadine Bloodline. This Mobile, Ala. duo of Gary Stanton and Charlie Muncaster came together in early 2016. Today they have two Billboard-charting, criti-

Sept. 18 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Muscadine Bloodline

cally acclaimed EPs under their belt and a reputation for high-energy live experiences from coast to coast. Their sound combines the brash irreverence of early southern rockers with the seductive quality of ’90s country love songs. They’ll perform from 7:45 to 9:15 p.m.

Other performances include singer/ songwriter Kyle Young; the bluesy/ folksy band Scruffy Pearls; and singer/ songwriter Faren Rachels.

Kyle Young is an improvisational

R  O R funk-fusion artist from the Chicagoland area who’ll perform from 2 to 3:15 p.m.

Scruffy Pearls is a NYC-based band that combines classic influences from soul, rock, folk, and blues; this band takes the stage from 3:45 to 5 p.m.

Faren Rachels grew up drag racing in Sparta, Ga., and formed her band during college. She takes the stage from 6 to 7:15 p.m.

Returning food vendors include Cantina Taco, Bella Luna Bakery, Pizza on Earth, District Bar & Grill, Thdoctas Jerk & Soul Food, Rockford Roasting Co. and Sugar Jones. New this year will be Edible Vibes, Downtown Fancy Franks,

Savor BBQ, Lulu’s Roasted Corn, 15th & Chris, Del Churro, and Velvet Robot Coffee Lab. There’ll be plenty of fun for children, including inflatables, at this family- friendly event.

Fall for Rockford is run almost entirely by volunteers. The River District gives a donation to two organizations that provide day-of volunteers. Interested organizations can learn more about this opportunity by emailing info@ riverdistrict.com.

Fall for Rockford is supported by the City of Rockford, Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, LaMonica Beverages, Stenstrom Com-

Faren Rachels

Scruffy Pearls

panies, Liebovich Brothers, Inc., InKyle Young ternational Union of Operating Engineers Local 150, Rocktown Adventures, US Bank, Mercyhealth, Aqua-Aerobics, Illinois Bank & Trust, PepsiCo, Montel Technologies, Smart Living Weekly and 23 WIFR, the official media sponsor.

Learn more at fallforrockford.com. ❚

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Y H  G

Questions to Ask When Buying Furniture

By Janine Pumilia ou get what you pay for, when it comes to furniture, and there’s a growing demand nationwide for better quality furniture, says Mitchell Johnson, store manager at Gustafson’s Furniture & Mattress, 6651 E. State St. “Both across the U.S. and here in our region, people are tired of cheap furniture that falls apart,” says Johnson.

Leather furniture remains popular, but Johnson cautions, “Be sure to ask questions about leather quality, since there are many imitations on the market.

We also sell a lot of fabric sofas,” says Johnson. “There’s a trend toward more texture, with tweeds and corduroys and weaves. Today’s upholstery options are really wonderful – very durable but beautiful and comfortable. Most of today’s upholstery fabrics are made from PET, a highly durable polyester thread.”

Reclining furniture is very big, in ev-

Y

ery age group, across all demographics, says Johnson. “Don’t be afraid of electric mechanisms in recliners,” he says. “People worry too much about the motors breaking, but that seldom happens. You’re more likely to break a recliner that has to be manually raised and lowered. And electric motors give you a full range of motion rather than stopping at certain positions.”

When buying upholstered furniture, the important question is not how the surface looks but what lies beneath.

“Ask good questions when shopping,” advises Johnson. “Is the frame made from strong laminated wood or just plywood? Is there a reasonably good spring system that will distribute weight?

Is the padding made of high-density foam or cheap fluff? Is the leather exterior real

leather?”

Reputable stores often have a cutaway model so you can see the materials below the surface.

Do business with people who are in it for the long haul, not fly-by-night chain stores with high turnover, suggests Johnson. “They have a real stake in making you happy and will deal with you more honestly.” ❚

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Y C

Sept. 27 Hunger Pack-A-Thon Needs Helpers B

ecause there’s a strong need in the Winneabgo County region, the Northern Illinois Food Bank (NIFB) recently increased the percentage of its food resources dedicated to our area.

This means more local volunteers are needed to pack and distribute the food.

An excellent opportunity to volunteer is coming up Sept. 27 during the first-ever Hunger Action Pack-A-Thon.

This festive, 12-hour event will include friendly competitions between volunteer teams to label and pack the most canned food for hungry neighbors. The event will include raffles and other suprises.

Volunteer shifts for this event are from 7-9 a.m.; 9:30-11:30 a.m.; 12:302:30 p.m. and 3-5 p.m.

The event will take place at the food bank’s Northwest Center in Rockford, 765 Research Parkway, near the Comcast building by the airport.

Volunteers are needed on a continual basis at the food bank.

“Whether you can volunteer once

a week, once a month or once a year – individually or with a group of friends, family or colleagues – whatever your commitment, every hour of assistance helps us to ensure our hungry neighbors will have access to food in their time of need,” says Julie Yurko, president.

The food bank serves 13 northern Illinois counties, with centers in Geneva, Park City, Joliet and Rockford.

Volunteers are needed to sort and package food; to stock shelves and work with clients on distribution days; and to contribute unique skills for specific tasks.

According to a recent Hunger in America survey, Northern Illinois Food Bank serves more than 71,000 people each week. Clients use the pantries and feeding programs eight times per year, on average.

Children under age 18 make up 36 percent of clients, while seniors age 60 and older make up 9 percent.

The survey reveals that about 77 percent of clients have had to choose

A food bank volunteer stocks shelves.

between paying for food or utilities, and 62 percent have had to choose between food or medicine/medical care.

Since 1983, NIFB has been working with food manufacturers, grocers, corporations, foundations and individuals who donate food and funds. It distributes food through 800 pantries and programs.

Register online at solvehungertoday. org or call the volunteer team at (630) 443-6910 to learn more. ❚

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Y H

Clear Aligners Offer Alternative to Braces B y To n i R o c h a ntil relatively recently, just the word “braces” was enough to make people frown. Now clear aligners are an innovative way to realign teeth gently and flexibly while keeping smiles on patient faces.

In its clinic at 5051 E. State St. in Rockford, Orthodontic Experts is one of the leading Midwest providers of Invisalign and similar products. Dr. Yaroslav Yarmolyuk, DDS MS, owner of the Rockford location and nearly a dozen locations in the Chicago area and Colorado, says the clear aligner advantage is, well, clear.

“They are more esthetic and comfortable than metal braces,” Yarmolyuk says.

“Patients used to need adjustments every six to eight weeks, but now they change trays every week, slowly easing teeth into proper position. Patients are given 12 to

U

16 trays so the number of appointments are reduced.”

Patients can remove clear aligners to eat, floss and brush their teeth, which helps to keep their mouths hygienically cleaner.

And the more gradual correction causes less discomfort than traditional metallic braces. Yarmolyuk says it takes six months to a year or more for the process to be completed, depending on how much alignment is necessary.

“Plus there are no dietary restrictions,” he adds. “They can eat anything they want because their braces are removed for meals.”

Other benefits of this new alignment system include compatibility for patients with less than perfect oral hygiene or a higher risk of dental decay. Appointments are shorter and less frequent, giving pa-

tients more scheduling flexibility. Also, Yarmolyuk says patients involved in active sports can remove their aligners during practice and games.

For more information about clear aligners or other orthodontic needs, call Orthodontic Experts at (815) 918-4427 or visit orhodonticexperts.com. ❚

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Y O

‘Bubble Wonders’ Brings Sudsy-Science Fun O ne of the most popular events of Discovery Center Museum will return when Bubblefest takes place Saturday, Sept. 28.

This year the main attraction at Bubblefest will be shows performed by Geoff Akins-Hannah, who considers himself to be both a magician and a “bubbleologist.” Akins-Hannah will demonstrate his skills during five live “Bubble Wonders” performances at 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m.

Bubbles and imaginations will run wild as Akins-Hannah does amazing things with ordinary soap and water. Following each live performance, audiences will be invited to test their own bubble skills with bubble art and activities in the Bubble-Palooza Playground. This sudsy-science fun is sponsored by SwedishAmerican – a division of UW Health, with additional support from an Illinois Arts Council Agency grant.

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Akins-Hannah creates huge wobbly electric dancing bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles, hand-blown bubbles, bubble caterpillars, bubble ice-cream cones, bubble snowmen, smoke-filled volcano bubbles, a fully-functioning bubble merry-go-round and even the impossi-bubble SQUARE bubble! He blows bubbles… and minds. The theme of the Bubble Wonders show is “Anything is Possible.”

Positive messages about the power of persistence and following your dream are woven throughout the show.

“His shows usually sell out, so I sug-

Sept. 18 To advertise call 815-316-2300

gest people reserve seats online in advance,” says Discovery Center Marketing Director Ann Marie Walker.

Akins-Hannah performs about 300 shows a year and has entertained more than one million people during his career. He has appeared on CBS Sunday Morning with Charles Osgood, National Geographic Channel and WGN. His corporate clients include Google, Toyota, Macy’s, IBM and Whole Foods. He’s been entertaining and educating children for more than 30 years.

Admission cost, in advance, is $5 public/$4 members through 5 p.m. on Sept. 27.

Admission at the door is $6 public/$5 members.

Museum admission is extra for the general public.

Reserve tickets online at DiscoveryCenterMuseum.org or call (815) 9636769. ❚

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

Autumn Fun

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.

Attractions & Events

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Barry Manilow’s Greatest Hits Sept. 18-19, 1 p.m. Manilow look-alike Frank Sternett entertains with “Mandy,” “It’s a Miracle,” “Copacabana” and more. Mt. Morris, Rockford, IL 61101 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com Ill., (815) 946-3817, whitepinesinn.com.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

Common Spiders of the Midwest Sept. 19, 7 p.m. Spiders are amazing creatures that receive little praise for the role they play in the ecosystem. Presented by U. of Wis.entomologist P.J. Liesch. RVC PE Center lower level, 3301 N. Mulford Road. Free.

Ashu at Mendelssohn Hall Sept. 20, 7:30 p.m. Ashu has developed a trailblazing career as the first and only full-time concert saxophone soloist. He has an extraordinary ability to communicate with audiences through his charismatic and emotive performance style. 406 N. Main St., Rockford. $25 in advance, $30 at the door, $6 students.

'Arsenic & Old Lace' Sept. 20-Oct. 6, Fri.-Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. A classic comedy. Pec Playhouse, Pecatonica, Ill., (815) 239-1210, pecplayhouse.org.

Fall for Rockford Sept. 21, 2-9 p.m., A downtown festival on North Main Street. Live music, food, games, and more sponsored by the River District Association. Muscadine Bloodline and Scruffy Pearls will perform. FallforRockford.com.

Wine on the Terrace Sept. 21, 4-7 p.m. With appetizers and music at Ellwood House Museum & Park, 509 N. 1st St., DeKalb, Ill., (815) 756-4609, ellwoodhouse.org.

Fall Colors Hike Sept. 24, 6-7:30 p.m. Explore the woods on a guided hike. Hononegah Forest Preserve, 80 Hononegah Road, Rockton. Meet at the shelter house near soccer field. Register online at seversondells.com/events/fallcolorhike2019.

Streets & Sweets for Rock House Kids Sept. 26, 6-8:30 p.m. Fundraiser for this Christian ministry that provides encouragement, hot meals and more to Rockford's inner city children. Buffet supper, silent auction, student performances. Radisson Hotel, 200 S. Bell School Road, Rockford. Rockhousekids.org or call (815) 962-5067.

Saxophone soloist sensation Ashu will perform at Mendelssohn Hall Sept. 20.

Bubble Wonders at Discovery Center Sept. 28, shows at 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m.; 2:30 p.m.; 3:30 p.m. National magician and bubbleologist Geoff Akins-Hannah showcases sudsy science fun. Reserve seats online; this show sells out. Go to DiscoveryCenterMuseum. org or call (815) 963.6769.

Jazz at Starr Center - Joel Baer Big Band Sept. 29, 3 p.m. Mendelssohn presents “A Tribute to Buddy Rich.” Rockford native and Chicago drummer Baer plays internationally.

Starr Center, 415 N. Church St., Rockford. $10/ advance, $15/door, $6/students.

Dockside Live Thru Sept. 23, Mon. 6-9 p.m. Live music, food & brews. Prairie Street Brewing Co., 200 Prairie St., (815) 277-9427, psbrewingco.com.

Julie Heffernan & Shelly Mosman - RAM Thru Sept. 29, daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The “Chance Encounters” exhibit tells visual stories. Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main St., (815) 968-2787, rockfordartmuseum.org.

Freeport Art Museum (FAM): Intricacies Thru Oct. 2, Tue.-Fri. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. noon5 p.m. An exhibition by three artists known for their extraordinary detail. 121 N. Harlem Ave., (815) 235-9755, freeportartmuseum.org.

Listening Room Concert-Dance Oct. 4, 7 p.m. The Emery’s Blues Boys Annual Reunion with Trinadora Rocks will take place at the Listening Room, 201 7th St., as a special First Friday event. Free. Learn more at trinadora.com or call (815) 979-1949. ❚

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WDL

Baci’s Keeps Evolving to Please Customers

By Peggy Werner

N

ikko Castrogiovanni sees his business as constantly evolving to give people what they want from his full -service, all-day offerings of Italian and American cuisine. These include many health-conscious and vegetarian options.

“We offer great customer service, fresh foods and a great atmosphere,” he says. “People are pleasantly surprised when they come here and they make plans to return. And many people are still trying us out for the first time.”

Baci’s Kitchen is located at 2990 N. Perryville Road, Rockford, inside A Perryville Place, between Olde Creek and Spring Creek roads. It offers carryout, catering, delivery and full table service, with reservations highly encouraged. It also has a private gaming corner, a sit-down bar, daily specials and live music most Fridays and Saturdays.

Among favorite items on the menu are 10 oz. burgers, such as a mushroom

burger with caramelized onions, Swiss cheese, portabella mushrooms and bacon; the avocado burger topped with lettuce, tomato, black beans, avocado, American cheese and onion; and the Baci Blue, with bleu cheese, bacon and purple onion.

Also beloved is Baci’s Mac and Cheese, made with corkscrew pasta that’s baked and lightly topped with panko crumbs. There are many options, like Alfredo Mac and Cheese with shrimp, peppers and broccoli.

For breakfast, waffles, omelets, skillets and ala carte items are available as well as breakfast pizza starting at $14 in three sizes, made with scrambled eggs and a choice of sauces, cheeses, toppings and meat. There are also breakfast bowls like Greek yogurt with fresh berries, granola, bananas and honey or sweet potato and egg with avocado and kale. Costs range from $4.50 to $8.

Lunch/dinner options include sand-

wiches, soups, panini, wraps, specialty salads, pizzas, calzones and full-blown entrees like peppercorn-encrusted sirloin filet for $22 or lasagna for $14.95.

Among Baci’s healthful signature protein bowls is the Salmon Bowl, with blackened salmon filet, brown rice, sesame seeds, spinach, avocado, edamane and shredded carrots for $14.

Hours: Sun. 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; Mon.Wed. 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thurs.-Sat. 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Learn more at baciskitchen.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.

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. $.

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 $-$$.

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

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. $-$$.

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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. $-$$.

Mary’s Market Cafe & Bakery  Baked goods, sandwiches, salads. 2636 McFarland Road, Rockford, (815) 986-3300; 1659 N. Alpine Road, Rockford, (815) 394-0765; 4431 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 397-7291. BkLD Hours vary by location. $.

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. $-$$.

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 Stockholm Inn  Casual/American, Scandinavian emphasis.

2420 Charles St., Rockford, (815) 397-3534. BkLD M-Sat., Sun. brkfst. only. M-Th 7a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri. & Sat. 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sun. 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Weekend brunch. Large menu, Swedish pancakes specialty. $$ Taco Betty’s  Casual/Mexican-American. 212 E. State St., Rkfd., (815) 977-5650. LD Daily 11am-1am. $$. ❚

Sept. 18 To advertise call 815-316-2300

In the Spotlight

Hearthrock Cafe

B

enson Stone Company’s Hearthrock Café has introduced new items to its already-popular menu. Head Chef Todd Cooper is following the popular farm-totable trend, working with seasonal and fresh ingredients as much as possible.

One of his most popular new creations is the Smoked Andouille Sausage Flatbread, with a homemade Marinara sauce, fresh mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, red pepper and mushrooms.

There’s also a new Benson Reuben sandwich, made with homemade sauce and pickled red cabbage.

Fresh salads include apple walnut, mandarin orange, garden, spinach or Caesar, iwith optional chicken or bacon.

Hearthrock Café hours are Mon.Fri. 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and Sat. 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Breakfast is served until 11 a.m. Benson Stone Company is located at 1100 11th St. in Rockford. Learn more at BensonStone. com/hearthrock. ❚

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Sept. 18 To advertise call 815-316-2300

Y M

Yes, You Can Build an Emergency Fund

By Peggy Werner

T

he government shutdown that ended earlier this year – the lengthiest in U.S. history – left many Americans wondering how to meet basic expenses.

Since 1980, there have been 22 government funding gaps, 10 of which led to employees being furloughed from their jobs.

People at all income levels can encounter unexpected income loss for reasons such as health crises, natural disasters and company shut-downs.

This should make all people think about budgeting, planning ahead and having an emergency fund to draw from in a crisis, says Matt Lynch, marketing director for MembersAlliance Credit Union, 2550 S. Alpine Road.

“The sooner a person starts setting aside money for savings, the sooner he or she will have a positive relationship with money,” says Lynch.

None of us should take for granted

that the next paycheck will always arrive.

Budgeting and setting aside money to build an emergency fund is a skill worth learning.

To get started, Lynch recommends writing down all of your expenses in one month, without making lifestyle changes.

Once you know where the money is going, start identifying how to cut costs.

“You’re more likely to be successful if you start small and gradually increase the amount you put aside for savings,” says Lynch. “As you find more ways to

cut expenses, you’ll learn to enjoy saving.”

Rent or mortgage, food, utilities and entertainment are expenses we must account for when setting a budget. Think of setting aside money for future emergencies in the same way. Viewing your nest egg as a bill that must be paid can help you form the habit of building one.

“Don’t touch your savings unless you have a true emergency,” he says.

“Unexpected expenses will come up.

Water heaters, furnaces, air conditioners and appliances break down. Cars need repairs. Health and dental costs arise.”

Having a savings plan in place will soften the blow and greatly reduce your stress in these situations. Software programs and mobile apps can assist with organizing and tracking expenses.

Learn more by visiting MembersAlliance at one of its five locations or go to membersalliance.org. ❚

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