Smart Living Weekly January 17, 2018

Smart L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit/Freeport 95¢ • January 17, 2018

™

Right in Our Region

Make Memories With Group Travel

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Light up the Fireplace!

Easy Lentil Carrot Stew Six Ways to Fight the Flu How to Care for Your Car Furniture that Fits Your Body

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$25 Gift Card from GreenFire Restaurant

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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 Group Travel Opportunities Announced Your Auto .................................................. ..... .... 9 How to Take Care of Your Car Your Home ............................................ ..... 11, 21 Light Up the Fireplace; The New Motion Furniture Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Firmly Fixed Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Carrot-Lentil Stew Your Health ............................................. .......... 23 6 Ways to Avoid the Flu Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 Prairie Street Brewhouse Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 26 Your Money .............................................. ......... 29 Get a Handle on Your Finances in 2018

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, Steven Wysong, Kendra Green Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes 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 2017 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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Hearts of Men A

s I write, snow is blanketing our region.

It’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day and I’m marveling at the timeless relevance of his writings as I absorb them in the stillness.

The following is an excerpt from “Rediscovering Lost Values,” a sermon he preached on Feb. 28, 1954 in Detroit. In it, he argues that obsessive materialism and the “survival of the slickest” are fueling acceptance for things we once knew to be absolutely wrong, such as hate, dishonesty, selfishness and riotous living. Movement away from these values is diminishing America, says King, and “wrong” is defined more and more by whether one gets caught. “…The trouble isn’t so much that our scientific genius lags behind, but our moral genius lags behind. The great problem facing modern man is that the means by which we live have outdistanced the spiritual ends for which we live.

“So we find ourselves caught in a messed-up world. The problem is with man himself and man’s soul. We haven’t learned how to be just and honest and kind and true and loving. And that is the basis of our problem.

“The real problem is that through our scientific genius we’ve made of the world a neighborhood, but through our moral and spiritual genius we’ve failed to make of it a brotherhood. And the great danger facing us today is … not so much that atomic bomb that you can put in an aeroplane and drop on the heads of hundreds and thousands of people – as dangerous as that is.

“But the real danger confronting civilization today is that atomic bomb which lies in the hearts and souls of men, capable of exploding into the vilest of hate and into the most damaging selfishness – that’s the atomic bomb that we’ve got to fear today…

[The] problem is with the men. Within the heart and the souls of men...”

Find the entire sermon, and others, at https://kinginstitute. stanford.edu/kingpapers/documents/ rediscovering-lostvalues-0.

Have a great week! ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor

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DIY Car Care that Everyone Can Do W hile taking your car to an auto service professional is a great way to ensure its performance, the Car Care Council reminds vehicle owners there are few simple vehicle checks that they can easily learn and do themselves to save a little money and help keep their vehicles running efficiently.

With basic knowledge of common maintenance practices and a little time, motorists can inspect the following components in their own driveway: Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.

Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering and brake and transmission, as well as windshield washer fluid and antifreeze/coolant.

Check the hoses and belts as they can become cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or show signs of excessive wear. These

are critical to the proper functioning of the electrical system, air conditioning, power steering and the cooling system.

Check the wipers and lighting so that you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior lighting is working properly and inspect and replace worn wiper blades. Keep the reservoir filled with windshield washer fluid.

To keep the cooling system working effectively, the coolant and distilled water mixture for a vehicle’s radiator should be 50:50. Never open a hot radiator cap when checking the coolant level in the reservoir. As a rule of thumb, the coolant should be changed annually on most vehicles.

Check the gas cap to ensure it is not damaged, loose or missing to prevent gas from spilling or evaporating.

Don’t neglect the exterior. When washing the outside, make sure to include

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the tires and wheels and the underside and fenders to eliminate any road salt or grime. The body of the vehicle should be washed using a product sold specifically for cars. Wax your vehicle every six months.

To learn more about how to care for your vehicle, and for a free copy of the popular Car Care Guide, visit carcare. org. ❚ (Source: Family Features; Photo: Getty Images)

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Power Furniture: The Solution for Comfort

By Janine Pumilia

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ost of us grew up with a one-sizefits-all sofa in our homes, and it was more comfortable for some people than others.

If you were petite, your feet may not have touched the floor and the backrest may have pushed your head too far forward.

If you were tall, you may have felt cramped and constantly tempted to sling your legs over the coffee table when Mom wasn’t looking.

As for Mom, she wished Dad would sit with her on the sofa now and then. But he found his old recliner just too comfortable to resist.

Then came the Age of Power Furniture, which changed everything and continues to evolve.

“Motion reclining furniture continues to be a growing trend,” says Becky Monigold, general manager at Gustafson’s Furniture & Mattress, 6651 E. State St. and 808 W. Riverside Blvd.,

Rockford. “Striving for ultimate comfort, manufacturers are showing adjustable headrests and adjustable lumbar features.”

Today’s power furniture makes it possible for each person to customize the support his or her body needs, with the touch of a button. Power recliners, footrests and headrests are built right into today’s sofas and loveseats.

One good example is the made-in-America CustomComfort line

by HomeStretch. Its power sofas feature double recliners with power headrests, power lumbar movement and power extended footrests.

The plush, pad-over chaise seating is made from easy-to-maintain 100 percent polyester; arm pads are made from solid foam. The seat box is constructed with hardwood and the motor mechanisms are made from steel. The attractive leatherlook cover has contrast stitching.

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Both domestic and imported materials are used in HomeStretch products, but the entire manufacturing process takes place in northeast Mississippi.

Many other fine companies are making power furniture, too.

Now, no matter your size or shape, it's easy for every person to find a comfortable position without sacrificing the needs of one family member for another.

And being comfortable is what being home is all about, right? ❚

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Firmly Fixed

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e humans get into a lot of trouble by forgetting God’s God and we’re not.

Hubris often rules our lives until we find ourselves helpless in an impossible situation. Only then do we remember we’re made of dust. If we’re wise, we run like children back into God’s open arms. We resolve to keep the Greatest Commandment: to love God with all our heart, soul and mind, both in good times and bad. (Matthew 22:37-39) The Bible, especially the Old Testament, is full of the following story: God puts person/people in a good situation. Person forgets God. Person stumbles.

(Pride goes before a fall, Proverbs 16:18).

Person returns to God and begs for help.

God looks at person’s heart and responds accordingly.

It’s worth repeating that God looks on our hearts, not our credentials. “The Lord does not look at the things people look at.

People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (I Sam. 16:7) The Old Testament reveals a parade of flawed and disadvantaged persons who succeed against grave odds only when they humble themselves before God. Deborah leads armies in a man’s world; Gideon faces down his anxiety disorder; Moses overcomes a speech impediment; Jacob is a liar; Rahab is a prostitute; Noah drinks too much; Jephthah is illegitimate; Oncehumble King David lets power go to his head and commits murder and adultery.

No human will ever be “good.” (Mark 10:18) But each of us has an open invitation to cling to the One who is – to love Him with our heart, soul and mind.

Apostle Paul, the top brass of the early church, asks God three times to remove a painful hardship from his life. (2 Corinthians 12:8-10 ESV). But God says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

Paul responds: “Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

Through our loving obedience, God unleashes his power of good. Our task is not to be good, but to keep our eyes firmly fixed on the One who is. ❚ – Janine Pumilia 12

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Feel good about the future Preparing for the possibility of long term care helps you feel secure about tomorrow.

Ask your COUNTRY Financialh representative about adding long term care to a new whole life insurance policy.

Stephen Blachford Financial Representative 5426 Williams Dr. Roscoe, IL 61073 steve.blachford@countryfinancial.com

815-218-4296

Policies issued by COUNTRY Life Insurance Company®, Bloomington, IL. Long term care benefit on whole life: in OR, CCAB(OR13), WPRLIB(OR13), RLIB(OR13); in TN, LTCAB(TN03/06); in ID, LTCAB(ID03/06); in OK, LTCAB(OK03/06); in TN/ID/OK, RLIB(03/06), WPRLIB(03/06). This is a solicitation of insurance and a financial representative may contact you. Availability may vary by state. If you would like more information on long term care from your state’s senior insurance counseling program, see your financial representative for the program’s contact information. Financial representatives are licensed insurance producers.

Auto, home and business insurance policies issued by COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company®, COUNTRY Preferred Insurance Company® and COUNTRY Casualty Insurance Company®. Life insurance policies issued by COUNTRY Life Insurance Company® and COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company®, Bloomington, IL. 0415-570HC-25318-

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Easy Cold-Weather Cooking A

s the chill settles in, comforting, warming, seasonal favorites like stews and soups become top of mind.

However, with busy work schedules, there’s often not enough time to prepare them during the week.

When Carrot-Lentil Stew is on the menu, time isn’t an issue. It’s ready in under an hour, plus it’s packed with healthy ingredients and robust flavor. Start with quick-cooking lentils, add nutrient-rich vegetables, vegetable broth and a secret ingredient: a jar of Aunt Nellie’s Glazed Sliced Carrots. The perfectly cooked carrot slices and their flavorful sauce add texture, flavor and vibrant color to the stew, which needs only 10 minutes to cook.

Serve topped with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese for another splash of color, nutrition and flavor. This vegetarian stew can easily be adjusted to include chicken sausage for even more protein.

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For additional cold-weather cooking ideas, visit AuntNellies.com.

Carrot-Lentil Vegetable Stew Ingredients: 1 cup dry lentils 3 cups fat-free, reduced-sodium vegetable broth, divided 1 cup water 3/4 cup chopped onion 3/4 cup sliced celery 3/4c up chopped bell pepper 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) no-salt-added diced tomatoes 1 jar (15 1/2 ounces) Aunt Nellie’s Glazed Small Sliced Carrots 1 large clove garlic, minced 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley shaved Parmesan cheese (optional) Preparation: Rinse lentils and drain. Place in Dutch oven or other large saucepan. Add 2 cups broth and water. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer

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15 minutes (lentils should be slightly undercooked).

Add onion, celery, bell pepper, remaining broth, tomatoes with liquid, carrots with liquid and garlic. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer 10-15 minutes, until liquid is reduced as desired and vegetables are just tender. Stir in parsley. Serve topped with Parmesan, if desired.

Note: If desired, 1/2 pound chicken sausage links, cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces, can be added to stew during last 5 minutes of cooking. ❚

Source: Family Features

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Travel Co. Announces 2018 Trip Lineup

By Peggy Werner

Free Travel Show 1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 21 3510 Merchandise Drive, Rockford

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ockford Star Tours and Cruises, 3510 Merchandise Drive, Rockford, makes it easy for people to see the U.S. and the world.

“People never regret traveling,” says Cathy Greteman, president. “It fills you with great memories and enriches your life.”

Nineteen trips are on the 2018 calendar so far and people can learn more about them by attending a free travel show at 1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 21 at the company’s new Rockford office.

During the show, Greteman will outline the one-day and multi-day trips planned this year. She’ll also explain what travelers can expect and will highlight the benefits of group travel. Those

On the Cover: Travelers plant a tree in Ireland.

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in attendance can preview tour details and meet potential travel companions. They’ll also receive a chance to win travel gift certificates.

Among upcoming tours are casino trips, one-day theater excursions and trips to Mackinac Island, Mich.; the Cranberry Festival in Warren, Wis.; and New England during fall foliage season.

“We have a great assortment of tours for people of all interests,” says Greteman. “Whether you’re looking to stay close to home on a one- or two-day adventure or want to explore the Alaska wilderness, one of our tours will catch your eye.”

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Customers like the convenience of group travel, says Greteman. “There’s no need to worry about driving, scheduling attractions or booking hotels. We take care of all the planning so our travelers can simply enjoy the experience.”

Greteman has seen travelers change over the years. “They don’t just want to look out the bus windows any longer.

They want to have ‘hands-on’ experiences, get out and talk to people, walk the streets and experience the culture,” she says.

She has personally visited 85 countries and wants others to discover the joy of travel. People who travel make friends and always have fascinating things to talk about, she says. Travel allows you to see the world through the eyes of other people and to gain an understanding of how they live.

“There are so many wonderful things

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Cathy Greteman has the world in the palm of her hand and more than 85 countries in her passport.

to see and do,” says Greteman. “When you travel, you really grow because you look beyond your own horizons. It’s a wonderful world out there and it’s a shame not to see a bit of it.”

Greteman began her travel career in 1982 as a part-time travel agent to get out

of the house and take a break from being a full-time mom. She quickly discovered that travel is her passion.

A few years later she bought Town and Country Travel of Carroll, Iowa. She expanded the business by establishing a group tour company called Star Destinations, Inc., which offers wholesale custom-designed tours to clubs and organizations. It also serves international agricultural groups wanting to learn more about industries and production in the U.S. In 1993, Greteman and husband Mike opened Windstar Lines, a company that now operates more than 110 deluxe motor coaches from nine locations in Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, Illinois, Missouri and Nevada. It’s run by the Greteman’s three adult sons and is the 17th largest motor coach provider in the nation.

When Rockford Charters and Tours came up for sale two years ago, Greteman saw Rockford as a potential major hub for the motor coach business and decided to

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try something new by selling tours to the general public. After purchasing the business, they relocated across the street to a much larger space with room for travel shows, drop-off and pick-up points, and parking. They changed the name to Rockford Star Tours and Cruises.

“The move to Rockford has been great,” says Greteman. “We’re really expanding and are always on the hunt for motor coach drivers who want to enjoy traveling with enthusiastic people as they see the country. It’s a wonderful fit for our growing business and a great opportunity for us to expand our offerings and get more people traveling.”

More trips are in the works for 2018 and cruises will soon be offered, too.

Pam Billo runs the local office and loves meeting and traveling with people from the Rockford area. Reach her at pamb@rockfordstartours.com or call (815) 387-9122 to get on the email or quarterly newsletter list. Learn more at rockfordstartours.com or on Facebook. ❚

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How to Stretch Your Budget a Little Further

By Peggy Werner

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f you’re thinking it would be nice to have a little extra spending money about now, to pay off those holiday bills, here’s a tip: take a close look at what you’re paying for tech services.

“Most people pay too much,” says Charles Zambrano, owner of EZ Satellite & Wireless, 6239 N. 2nd St., Suite B, in Loves Park. “People are paying too much for phone, internet and television services by using just one company, and they often pay too much for home security protection, too,” he says.

“I love to see people’s faces when they find out how much money they can save.”

Sometimes people are tricked by promotional offers that may jump up dramatically in price after a special offer ends.

“You should know exactly what you’re getting so that it doesn’t cost you a lot of money down the road.”

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Zambrano also finds himself helping residential and business customers to set up cost-effective but reliable security systems. He offers the highly rated Protect America home security service for as little as $19.95 per month.

The family-owned business opened in 2011. It’s a full-service retailer for satellite TV and Internet, and can also help people to acquire cable services.

After working for many years as a satellite dish installer for one of the local providers, Zambrano decided to go out on his own to be more in control of his life and to help others do the same.

EZ Satellite & Wireless is an authorized Dish network retailer and also offers services from any other provider, using dish, cable, Internet or home security, such as Comcast, Frontier, HughesNet, DishNet, DirectTV, Digitenna and Vivint.

Zambrano can help those who drop their TV cable service to set up Sling TV for $20 a month. Sling offers 30 channels

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of live TV including CNN and ESPN. Sometimes a customer simply wants a TV antenna set up in order to receive local TV station programming including Chicago Cubs baseball games through WGN. Zambrano is happy to help them.

And, through DISH, he also offers the Amazon Echo Dot, a hands-free, voicecontrolled device that uses the same farfield voice recognition as Amazon Echo.

For more information, contact EZ Satellite & Wireless at (815) 957-4335 or stop by the office. ❚

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Art Sale, ‘Misfits’ at Rockford Art Museum A

perfect counterpoint to the black and white scene outside our windows this month may be the lively collection of artwork on display and up for sale at Rockford Art Museum (RAM) on Saturday, Jan. 27 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 711 N. Main St., Rockford.

The artwork represents 20 local artists/artisans and includes assemblage art, block printing, ceramics, illustrations, jewelry and accessories, photography, paintings and much more. The $7 event admission buys entrance to RAM exhibits plus a 10 percent discount on museum memberships purchased that day.

Proceeds support RAM. Among the featured artists are Sue Abare, Jean Apgar, Beverly Broyles, Delores Burkholder, Karla Clark/ Gallery C, Jesus Correa, Lana Ewing, Nikki Hollander/Jet Set Vintage, Jane Peterson Hooker/Plain Jane Art, Sadie Hooker, Javier Jimenez/Fatherless, Chris Johnson, Jeremy Klonicki/Mainfraim, Kenzie Knabe, Greg Lang/Fatherless,

Cynthia Linnabary/CinLin Art, Jenny Mathews, Morgann McCoy/A Well Worn Story, Kari McDonald/Lemuette, Barbara McNamara, Sara Reed McNamara/SRM Prints, Steve Nofsinger/Karate Horse, Jasmine Rose, Nadja Schutt, Bailey Snider, Kelly Steward/Purpose Goods, Carmen Turner and Bruce Whitacre.

Sale-goers will be able to catch the last few days of “Misfits,” an exhibit that surveys 1960s biker subculture through film, literature and Danny Lyon’s iconic street photography portfolio, “The Bikeriders.”

“A leading figure in the American street photography movement of the 1960s, Lyon distinguished himself by the personal intimacy he established with his subjects and the inventiveness of his practice,” explains RAM Curator Carrie Johnson. “With his ability to find beauty in the starkest reality, Lyon has provided a charged alternative to the bland vision of American life often depicted in the mass media.”

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Danny Lyon’s “Three Boys and ‘A Train’ Graffiti in Brooklyn’s Lynch Park in New York City,” 1974.

“Misfits” incorporates a portion of the 1960s social landscape, exploring the influence the movement made on filmmakers, authors and artists during this turbulent, experimental era. Included are vintage bikes and ephemera, plus firsthand stories documenting the Rockford motorcycle scene of the 1960s and the impact it had on the country. ❚

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It’s Time to Light Up the Fireplace!

By Jermaine Pigee

W

ith fresh snow blanketing the landscape, it’s a great time to cuddle up and stay cozy indoors. One thing that can put warmth and comfort in your home is a fireplace. Over the past decade, many homeowners have been switching from wood to gas-powered fireplaces.

“People haven’t been burning wood as much because it’s a lot of work,” says Kevin Obee, of Benson Stone Co., 1100 11th St., Rockford. “When I get home at night, I’m tired and the last thing I want to do is get wood and tend to it when I can get the same effect in a gas fire.”

Another reason for the switch is the creation of the direct-vent gas fireplace.

“That completely changed the way the fireplace industry went,” Obee says.

“An open-faced, wood-burning fireplace can now be converted into a sealed gas direct-vent fireplace.”

These are much more energy effi-

cient because furnace-heated air from your home is not swept up the chimney.

Obee also finds that using a gas fireplace is less stressful.

Unlike wood fires, gas fires turn on and off with the flip of a switch or remote. Depending on the model, options like flame intensity, heat output and electric ambiance lighting can be adjusted by remote control.

“People have come in here and told me they haven’t used their fireplace in five years because they don’t have the time to babysit a wood-burning fireplace and you have to clean it out,” Obee says.

“To burn a wood fire, you need four or five hours at the fireplace to enjoy and maintain the fire.”

But gas fireplaces aren’t for ev-

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eryone. “We still have people who love wood fires best,” Obee says. “They love the beauty of the flames and the scent of burning wood.”

No matter your preference, Benson Stone can accommodate your fireplace needs. “We have pretty much anything you’d want in the fireplace industry or anything to do with that,” Obee says. ❚

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6 Ways to Fight the Flu Y

ou can reduce your odds of catching the flu.

“I always recommend the flu shot – especially in a harsh flu season like this year – along with good nutrition and plenty of sleep, but there are other healthy habits we can all develop,” says Dr. Tanya Altmann, pediatrician, author and founder of Calabasas Pediatrics.

These tips from the experts at Clorox can help you prevent the spread of germs: 1. Get Vaccinated. It’s still important to get a flu shot if you haven’t already. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend a yearly flu virus vaccination, even if the vaccine’s efficacy fluctuates, for almost everyone 6 months and older.

2. Keep Hands Washed. Hands touch so many things throughout the day.

Germs can spread by touching your eyes, nose or mouth after coming in contact

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with a contaminated surface. Those areas are common entry points to the body for germs. Try not to touch your face or eat until you wash your hands.

3. Stay Home if You’re Sick. Even though you may not want to miss work or school, it’s important to prevent the spread of illnesses. Even at home, make sure to cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue to prevent the spread of germs.

Lastly, try your best to make good use of your time off to rest, relax, eat well and recover from illnesses.

4. Follow Health Guidelines. It’s important to eat right (fill up with fresh fruit and veggies, vitamin D and probiotics), get some exercise (at least 30 minutes a day of moderate intensity) and get plenty of sleep (at least 8 hours per night) to help boost your body’s ability to fight the effects of cold and flu viruses.

5. Be Aware of Your Environment.

Take extra precautions to avoid illnesses

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going around your community and know when to seek medical attention.

6. Disinfect Hard Surfaces. The CDC recommends disinfecting frequently touched, hard surfaces, such as doorknobs, refrigerator handles, light switches and faucets, with an EPA-registered disinfectant like Clorox Disinfecting Wipes. They help kill 99.9 percent of germs that can live for up to 48 hours on hard, non-porous surfaces. ❚ (Source: Family Features; Photo: Getty Images)

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Tourism

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.

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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

Attractions & Events

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

Illinois Snow Sculpting Contest Jan. 17-20, Daily, viewing hours sunrise until 10:30 p.m. Awards ceremony Sat. 1 p.m. As many as 70,000 visitors Rockford, IL 61101 1.800.521.0849 gorockford.com view these massive works of snow art each year. Teams from around the state compete for the right to represent Illinois in the 2018 U.S. National Snow Sculpting Competition. Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. 2nd St., Rockford, (815) The Illinois Snow Sculpting Contest is Jan. 17-20 in 987-8800, ilsnowsculpting.com.

Rockford, followed by the 2018 U.S. National competition 9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

in Lake Geneva, Wis., Jan. 31-Feb. 4.

Winterfest Jan. 19-21. This three-day festival in Beloit features sleigh rides, music, snow golf, ice skating, ice sculpting, euchre and volleyball tournaments, more. Various locations. Learn more at (608) 364-2890, beloitrecreation.com.

MPAC: Duo Sonidos Jan. 19, 7:30 p.m. The talents of violinist William Knuth and classical guitarist Adam Levin combine for a sophisticated and approachable chamber performance.

Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center (MPAC), Starr Center, 415 N. Church St., Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.

Broadway: Jay Owenhouse Jan. 20, 8 p.m. Experience an evening of grand illusions that include Bengal tigers, dangerous escapes and inspiring storytelling. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

REO Speedwagon Jan. 24, 7:30 p.m. REO turned 50 this year, with many Top 40 hits and more than 40 million record sales since it formed at the U of I and band members rode in station wagons to play in bars and clubs all over the Midwest. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

Spring Awakening Jan. 20, 7 p.m. Presented by a dance studio from Madison, this daring new rock musical explores the journey from adolescence to adulthood with poignancy and passion, combining morality, sexuality and rock ‘n’ roll.

Rated R. Nordlof Center, Rockford, (608) 6205192, expressyourselfmadison.com.

Orchesis Dance Concert Jan. 25-27, 7:30 p.m. Students and guest artists perform selected original sets. Maddox Theatre, Rockford University, Rockford, (815) 226-4100.

“Barefoot in the Park” Jan. 25-Feb. 3, Thu.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 3 p.m. Straight-laced attorney Paul and his free-spirit bride adjust to married life in a tiny Manhattan apartment. Beloit Civic Theatre, Elizabeth Reinholz Theatre, 1225 4th St., Beloit, (608) 362-1595, beloitcivictheatre.org.

Local Comedy on Main Jan. 26 & March 2, 8 p.m. Nationally acclaimed and up-and-coming comedians entertain in the intimate environment of the Gallery. 18 and up. JPAC, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.

“The Odd Couple” Jan. 26-28 & Feb. 2-4, Fri.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 2 p.m., Sun. 2:30 p.m. In Neil Simon’s comic play, Felix Unger and Oscar Madison have very different ideas about lifestyles. Byron Civic Theater, (815) 312-3000, bctmagic.com.

Monkey Business Jan. 27, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Curious George leads as you build, maneuver and manipulate your way through a world of science and engineering that offers problem-solving opportunities.

Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., (815) 963-6769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

MPAC: Classics in Winter Jan. 27, 1:30 p.m. MPAC’s Young Musicians Series presents a recital featuring music from the Baroque, Classical and Romantic periods for instruments and voice. MPAC, Mendelssohn Hall, Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.

Botanic Talk Jan. 27, Feb. 24, 10 a.m. Educational monthly seminar. Reg. online. Rotary Botanical Gardens, 1455 Palmer Dr., Janesville, (608) 7523885, rotarybotanicalgardens.org. ❚

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WDL

Restaurant of the Week

Prairie Street Brewhouse

P

rairie Street Brewhouse., 200 Prairie St., Rockford, serves up delicious food, great beer, and a view of the Rock River.

The restaurant serves lunch and dinner seven days a week, with a rotating line-up of 16 craft beers on tap, all brewed on-site.

The restaurant and brewery are located inside an 85,000-square-foot multi-use venue that was home to the original Rockford Brewing Co., which operated from 1849-1939.

The brewery is a backdrop to the bar, which is made of reclaimed materials from the 1849 building. Restaurant decor features exposed original brick and ductwork. “It’s a mix of old and new, and people like the natural look of the original building, with the warmth of wood,” says Chris Manuel, vice president and co-owner of the business with Reed Sjostrom and Dustin Koch.

The menu features daily specials, and

appetizers such as shrimp & avocado ceviche, truffle fries, a hummus plate and Poutine, made with Yukon gold fries, screw city light braised pork belly, cheese curds and herbed bacon gravy.

Reed Sjostrom, Chris Manuel and Dustin Koch.

“Handhelds” are sandwiches like pulled pork, screw city light corned beef, turkey club, mint yogurt. For dessert, there’s a root beer and a BLT, which can be served with a half- float, pie in a pint, cheesecake of the day or pound beef patty, cherrywood bacon, and/ crème brûlée.

Come summertime, Dinner on the or duck bacon. In addition, there are soups and salads, sides like house-made chips Dock will be offered each Thursday from 5-10 p.m., with a special sandwich menu with sea salt and build-your-own pizzas.

Entrées include fish and chips, Medi- and live music from 6-9 p.m.

Prairie Street Brewhouse is open Sun.terranean beer chicken, ribeye steak, blackened bone-in pork chop, and Grilled Jail Wed., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thurs. to midnight; Island Salmon, served with coconut rice, and Fri.-Sat. to 2 a.m. For reservations, call curried cauliflower and peas and cucumber (815) 227-9427. ❚

In the Spotlight

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant  Casual/Authentic Mexican. 107 tic dishes, lunch menu. 5855 E. State St., Rockford, (815) W. Main St., Poplar Grove, Ill., (815) 765-1144. LD M 11am-8pm, 227-4979. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 10:30pm. $-$$.

T-Th to 9pm, F to 10pm, Sun noon-8pm. $.

Fresco at the Gardens.  Casual/American Café. Fresh, loBaci’s Kitchen  Fast-Casual American and Italian specialties, cal-sourced ingredients. 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, dine-in, carry-out. 2990 N. Perryville Road, inside A Perryville (815) 316-2256. BkL Daily 7am-3pm. $$ Place. (815) 329-6922. Open 7 days/wk. at 8 a.m. BkLD. ComGiordano’s  Casual/Italian. Stuffed pizza, salads, entrees, plete menu at Baciskitchen.com. sandwiches, desserts. 33 Executive Parkway, Rockford, (815) Big Papa’s Barbecue  BBQ Specialties. 5811 Forest Hills Road, 398-5700. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11 pm.

Rockford, (815) 904-6612. LD M-Th 11am-9pm, F-Sat 11 amGreenFire  Upscale-Casual/American contemporary. Sea10pm, Sun 11am-7pm. $. sonal cuisine; local-sourced ingredients; gourmet market; Bravo Pizza  Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Road, South Be- live entertainment. 6795 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, (815) loit, Ill., (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 11pm. $. 316-3473. BkLD M-F 11am, Sat-Sun 8am. Bar open late. $$$.

Cannova’s Italian Cuisine  Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., Free- Hearthrock Cafe  Restaurant/cafe. Baked goods, coffee, port, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. $-$$. breakfast, lunch. Inside Benson Stone Co., 1100 11th St., Ciao Bella Ristorante Upscale-Casual/Italian-American. Dai- Rockford, (815) 227-2000. BkL M-F 7:30am-3pm; Sat. 8amly specials. 6500 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park, Ill. (815) 654- 3pm. $-$$.

9900. LD M-F 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 5-10 p.m. $$

Prairie Street Brewhouse  Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Costa’s Ristorante  Upscale-Casual/Italian. 133 Blackhawk Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$.

Dr., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. LD Daily 4pm. $-$$.

Cucina di Rosa  Italian Bistro/Bakery 1620 Bell School Road, Taco Betty’s  Casual/Mexican-American. 212 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 395-5040. BkLD. Homemade gelato, baked Rockford, (815) 977-5650. LD Daily 11am-1am. $$. goods, pasta, frittatas, more. M-Sat 7am-9pm. $$

Thrive Café  Casual/Cafe. Salads, wraps, sandwiches, smoothies, cold-pressed juices. Inside Peak Fitness, 4401 Peak Dos Reales Mexican Restaurant  Casual/Mexican. AuthenDrive, Loves Park, Ill. BkLD M-F 6am-8pm, Sat 8am-2pm. ❚

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To advertise call 815-316-2300

Merrill & Houston's Steak Joint

L

ocated at 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, inside the Ironworks Hotel, the restaurant features mouthwatering steaks, along with a full-service menu of fish, chicken and and seafood selections.

Named after the men whose 1858 foundry became Beloit Corp., Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint celebrates Beloit's rich industrial history.

Many of its components are constructed with repurposed materials salvaged from historic buildings. Leather seats, hardwood floors and many historical photographs lining the walls give the space a rustic feel.

Merrill & Houston's is available for private and corporate events. The main dining room seats 120 and the banquet room can accommodate 200 guests.

Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint is open daily at 4 p.m. ❚

(Blake Nunes photo)

By Peggy Werner

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Y M

Improve Your Financial Life in 2018 T

he past year brought financial setbacks to nearly two-thirds of U.S. households, according to a survey by the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE). In fact, more than a quarter of U.S. adults say the current quality of their financial lives are worse than they expected. Topping the list of setbacks in 2017 were transportation issues (23 percent), housing repairs or maintenance (20 percent), the inability to keep up with debt and falling behind on bill payments (16 percent).

As a result, more than two-thirds of U.S. adults have resolved to budget more (40 percent), make a plan to get out of debt (39 percent), establish savings (32 percent) and boost retirement savings (31 percent).

“We continue to see a lot of anxiety about money,” says Ted Beck, president and CEO of NEFE. “Three-quarters of Americans said something causes them financial stress, and it’s most often not saving enough and debt that are to blame.”

NEFE offers these tips: 1. Get debt under control. Take a hard look at what you owe. If there’s a clear warning sign of too much debt, take action. Set a goal to reduce your debt load next year by 5-10 percent. That might mean reducing impulse shopping. When you face temptation, delay the purchase and give yourself time to consider whether it’s a wise move that fits within your budget.

2. Save now and do so often. Emergency savings can offset unexpected costs and help you get back on solid footing. A good rule of thumb is to have 6-9 months of income set aside. If that feels out of reach, start with a smaller goal, even as little as $500. Also review your long-term savings and ensure it’s on target for your retirement plans.

3. Shop for better services. You may be surprised by how much you can save when you periodically shop for the most

competitive rates on your recurring bills like insurance policies, cell phone plan, internet and utilities. Ask your providers about current rates and any promotions available to long-time, loyal customers.

Then look at alternative providers to determine where you can trim some spending. Be sure to understand your current offering thoroughly so that you are comparing apples to apples.

4. Understand what’s behind your financial decisions. Consider taking the LifeValues Quiz at smartaboutmoney.org, where you can also find help with setting goals and getting your finances in order.

Budget Better

The most effective money management tool is a budget. Start by listing all income sources, including wages, bonuses and tips, as well as non-employer income such as child support, alimony or Social Security. Next, take into account all of your recurring monthly bills. If you have major periodic expenses, such as a sixmonth auto insurance premium, account for it in monthly increments so you can save up and have the money ready when the payment comes due. Remember to acTell them you saw it in ...

count for the bills you pay (mortgage or rent, utilities, etc.), as well as unspecified items.

Categorize Spending: Some people find it helpful to break expenses into categories, such as housing, transportation, health, personal, entertainment and so on.

The key is to capture every point where money is going out so you can get a thorough picture of your ongoing expenditures. It can take a couple months to get a true understanding of what your typical spending looks like.

Savings: An effective budget doesn’t just capture what’s going out; it also reflects what you’re able to keep. If you haven’t already, outline a savings plan that allows for an emergency fund, regular savings, retirement and investments.

Debt: Consistently paying down the accounts you owe with the maximum amount you can afford is the surest way to reduce your debt load. Account for each debt you owe in your budget, and establish a payment plan that shows how much you can allocate to each account each month. ❚ (Source: Family Features; Photo: Getty Images)

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