Smart Living Weekly August 1, 2018

Sm mart a r t L iving Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Beloit 95¢ • August 1, 2018

™

Right in Our Region

Mendota Sweet Corn Festival Aug. 9-12

See Page 16

Festa Italiana This Weekend!

Using Bitters to Flavor Food Recipes Shop the Blocks ‘School House Rocks’ Are Your Dirty Ducts in Need of Cleaning?

FREE WIN!

2 Tickets for One Round of Golf See Pg. 28 Details

Best of Life Information for Our Region’s Residents & Visitors Proudly Serving the Needs of 326,000 Neighbors - For Your Home, Health & Fun!

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In This Issue

Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 16 Mendota Corn Festival Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Do Your Ducts Need Cleaning?

Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Only One Voice Matters Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Using Bitters to Flavor Food Your Outings ...............................................19, 21 Shop the Blocks, Festa Italiana Your Health ............................................. .......... 23 New LASIK Surgery Your Fun ................................................... ......... 25

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 26 Capital House, Union Dairy Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 26 Your Technology ..................................... ......... 29 Don’t Pay Too Much for Services

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

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Some Good News

I

n today’s chaotic world, we need to celebrate all of the good true stories – the real ones that aren’t just political spin.

The ongoing success of our airport is one of them. Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) recently moved to No. 22 in the USA for cargo volume, up from No. 31 in 2016. This is good!

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) bases the ranking on required reporting information from air cargo airlines.

Some of the airports now ranking behind us include San Francisco International, Salt Lake City International, MinneapolisSt. Paul International, Boston Logan International, Orlando International and Baltimore-Washington International.

Impressive!

“We’re very proud of the air cargo boom that is taking place at RFD,” Mike Dunn, RFD executive director, stated in a recent press release. “Our growth and success are a result of our tremendous partnerships with public and private entities and we expect to see our numbers continue to rise.”

The airport receives federal funding to support expansions. Officials expect support to continue, since RFD still has more than 1,000 acres of land on which to sprawl.

Nearly 1.4 billion pounds of cargo traveled through RFD in 2017, a 50 percent increase over the year before. One of many factors that helped this growth was UPS relocating its Des Moines operation of 13 daily flights to RFD about a year ago.

The airport expects even greater results for 2018.

Why does all of this matter?

Because nearly 1,000 jobs have been created since the beginning of this year, both permanent and seasonal, due to new and existing airport tenants. Naturally the growth is a boon for local construction workers as well. And the airport expects to see another 1,000 jobs added over the next 17 months Being aware of the good things happening around us – as well as the bad – is part of keeping a balanced perspective.

And that’s smart living.

Have a great week! ❚ Janine Pumilia SLW Editor

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How Dirty are Your Ducts?

Y H  G

By Janine Pumilia

M

ost people would be surprised to see how much dirt builds up inside the air ducts of their homes, but not James Wells. As owner of Air Quality Management, which specializes solely in duct cleaning, he knows the dirt on ducts.

“The main reason people have their ducts cleaned is to reduce allergens and dust in the home,” says Wells. “The furnace or air conditioner sucks air in through its lines, heats or cools it and distributes it back into the rooms. It’s the return ducts that are dirtiest. The pet dander and other debris build up and some of it gets redistributed throughout the home.”

Air Quality Management uses a 20-horsepower vacuum to pull debris outside the home as it cleans.

“It’s powerful enough to pick up a 16-pound bowling ball,” says Wells.

“That’s important because it means the

dirt is not going back into the home as we disturb it.”

Wells recommends cleaning ducts every five to seven years, depending on your allergy sensitivity and how many pets and people live in the home making dander and dirt.

“Sometimes owners of a newly constructed home will hire us to clean the drywall dust and other debris from a home before they move in, too,” he adds.

The cost of cleaning ducts in a typical ranch home is about $350 and requires 2 or 3 hours. A larger two-story home is $450 to $550 and takes 3 or 4 hours.

Air Quality Management also professionally cleans dryer vents.

“This is important because a plugged dryer vent is a fire hazard,” says Wells.

“Also, when a dryer hose is plugged, clothing takes a lot longer to dry and en-

ergy costs increase.”

Air Quality Management cleans ducts in residential, commercial and industrial structures.

To get an estimate on cleaning your ducts, call Wells at (815) 962-9007. ❚

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I  W

One Voice Matters

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e live in a time of increasing bitterness and ugly behavior. Dissension sown among Americans by our enemies is taking a toll. “How can they be so blind?” one side cries indignantly. The other side responds with equal self-righteousness. Crass language, dehumanizing rhetoric and disregard for basic decency poison the air.

At these times, and at all times, we Christians must search our souls to ask whether our thoughts and behaviors are conforming to the mind of Christ. There’s a constant barrage of chatter from those who wish to control our thinking; it’s up to us to choose God’s still, small voice above all others. Quietly. Prayerfully.

Opening the Bible is a good place to start because Jesus Christ has already told us what to value. He tells us the first commandment is to love God with all of our strength; the second is to love other people as we love ourselves. (Matthew 22:36). His commandments have nothing to do with self-righteousness or materialism; they have everything to do with loving God and loving other people.

But what is love?

“Love is patient, love is kind,” Paul writes in Corinthians 13. “It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

When we see or do behavior that is boastful and proud, it’s not of God. When we see behavior that belittles others and glorifies self, it’s wrong. When we see behavior that keeps score and exacts revenge, this can’t be the way of Jesus Christ.

When we hear statements made in vindictive anger, we shouldn’t follow them. We’re followers of Jesus Christ. When people sow chaos in order to obscure truth, we should be wary of their motives and pray to keep our own inner peace. Confusion is not of God. Love doesn’t throw people under the bus to save self – love risks all to protect others.

Love is not paranoid; love freely makes itself vulnerable, confident that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. Love always trusts that love will win out in the end.

May we conform our thoughts to the mind of Jesus Christ who gives us eyes to see truth and the courage to act upon it. ❚ – Janine Pumilia 12

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Y K

Using Bitters in Savory or Sweet Summer Recipes A dd a bit of island infusion to summer cooking. Ingredient like bitters provide a potent flavor made from botanicals like aromatic herbs, bark, roots and fruit. Known best for their use in cocktails, some chefs regard bitters as a pantry staple. Much like vanilla extract, when cooked, the alcohol in bitters evaporates. Find more summertime recipes at AngosturaBitters.com.

Pork Sliders with Bitters

Servings: about 14 small sandwiches Chili Rub: 2 Tb Angostura aromatic bitters 2 Tb chili powder 1 tsp salt 3-3.5 lb. boneless pork shoulder roast 1 Tb cooking oil Bitters Sauce: 1 can (15 oz.) tomato sauce 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar 2 Tb Nature’s Intent cider vinegar 1 Tb Angostura aromatic bitters 1 Tb chili powder 3 large cloves garlic, chopped Stir together aromatic bitters, chili powder and salt; let stand 10 minutes. Cut pork shoulder across grain into 1.5 to 2-inch thick slices; trim excess fat. If needed, cut

into chunks to remove some fat. Rub meat with chili mixture. In 8-quart pot or 9-10-inch wide, high-sided saute pan with lid, heat oil.

Add meat and brown on both sides, about 15 minutes total. Remove meat; keep warm.

Bitters Sauce: Combine tomato sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, aromatic bitters, chili powder and garlic cloves; stir well. Pour into hot, empty pan. Simmer 5 minutes, stirring and scraping bottom of pan. Return meat to pan; spoon sauce over meat. Cover and cook 1 hour and 15 minutes on low, rearranging meat halfway through cooking. Transfer meat to plate; cover with foil to keep warm.

To serve, pull meat apart, drizzled with sauce and serve on buns.

Orange Butter Sponge Cake

8 oz. butter 2 cups cake flour 1 Tb baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt 2 cups granulated sugar 4 large eggs 1 tsp. vanilla 1 Tb Angostura orange bitters 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice Powdered or extra-fine sugar, for dusting

Heat oven to 350 F. Butter and flour two 9-inch cake pans. Sift flour three times and add baking powder and salt. Set aside. With electric mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and creamy, about 10 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well between additions.

Add vanilla and orange bitters.

Divide flour mixture into four portions.

Set mixer on medium low and add flour alternately with orange juice, starting and ending with flour. Mix just until incorporated after each addition. Divide batter evenly between cake pans and bake 35-40 minutes, or until cake pulls away from sides of pans.

Remove from oven and cool 5 minutes in cake pans before turning out. ❚ Source: Family Features. Photo: Getty Images

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R  O R

Mendota Sweet Corn Festival Aug. 9-12

By Peggy Werner

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he 71st annual Mendota Sweet Corn Festival is about everything in abundance, especially fresh-picked corn on the cob, steaming hot and dripping with butter. It’s also about music, carnival rides, more food, entertainment and a bigger cash raffle prize than ever before.

The event, which is the area’s largest harvest festival, will take place Aug. 9-12 in Mendota’s downtown. About 50 volunteers will serve up 60 tons of free Del Monte sweet corn beginning at 2 p.m.

Sunday at the corner of Illinois Avenue and Jefferson Street.

“The corn is locally grown from the Del Monte fields, freshly picked that morning and husked the same day before being cooked to perfection with the help of a vintage steam traction engine,” explains Jesse Arellano, executive director of Mendota Chamber of Commerce.

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“It’s as fresh as you can get it.”

This year’s corn crop got a strong start, with more than 90 percent of the fields producing good to excellent quality corn, the USDA reported in June. Illinois and Iowa are the biggest corn-producing states in the USA and our country leads the world in corn exports.

“After 70 years, you’d think the festival’s popularity would have peaked out, but just the opposite is happening. We’re getting bigger and better every year,” says Arellano.

Last year’s attendance topped records, with 65,000 guests. They enjoy the long weekend of free live music on two stages; ethnic, regional and festival foods; The Crafters Market Place and Flea market with more than 200 dealers of handmade crafts and unique merchandise; amusement rides; a Grand Parade,

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magicians, a beer garden and more Windy City Amusements of St. Charles will again provide a wide variety of thrill rides for older kids and adults and about a dozen kid-sized rides for tots.

The event is the largest fundraiser to date for the Mendota Chamber of Commerce, which will share a cash prize with the 50/50 raffle winner. In recent years, the amount of money awarded to the winner has doubled. So far this year’s winner is guaranteed at least $16,000, Arellano says. The cost is $20 for 30 tickets, which can be purchased at most local restaurants, online through Aug. 5, and at the chamber office. The drawing will take place at 10 a.m. Aug. 13 and you don’t have to be present to win.

The festival will open Thursday with a special afternoon for special kids. Special-needs children and their families can

R  O R

enjoy early carnival hours from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. before gates open to the general public at 6 p.m. The Valley Katz will perform classics by Elvis, Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis and more at 7 p.m.

On Friday, The Acoustix, a duo from Sandwich, Ill., will perform classic rock and country from 2 to 6 p.m. followed by the Queen Pageant at 7:30 p.m. on the First State Bank Stage, with music by Clef Hangers, a mixed a cappella group from Illinois State University. The beer garden opens at 7:30 p.m. with music by Abbynormal from the Chicago area.

On Saturday, Cornapalooza is a

5K/10K run and 5K fitness walk that begins and ends at Mendota Lake. Register online at OSF healthcare.org. A blood drive is slated from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 800-Give-Life, ext. 5 to make an appointment.

Also on Sunday, a Mini-Royal Pageant for 5-year-olds will take place at 10 a.m.

Works by regional and local artists will be on display from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the Setchell Studios on Washington Street. The local musical group Nicodemus will perform at 11 a.m. in the hospitality tent and DeColores Folkloric Group will join with Ballet Folklorico Paleteros from Mexico for a blend of culture, music, art and dance at noon. Mr. Steve will combine music, magic, balloon art, and comedy at noon, 2 and 4 p.m. and free face painting for kids will be from noon to 3 p.m. Other area musical entertainment that day includes Steve Cerqua on acoustic guitar at 2:30 and Diligent DJ

Service taking song requests from 6 to 8 p.m. at the hospitality tent. The beer garden opens at 7:30 with Big UpRoar.

Sunday attractions include The Jesse White Tumblers at noon in front of the Elks Lodge and during the Grand Parade, which begins at 1 p.m. The parade also will feature the South Shore Drill Team, floats, bands, antique and classic vehicles, clowns and much more.

“This is one of the last events before school starts. It’s one more time families can be together.”

Carnival hours will be from 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday; noon to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and from noon to 6 p.m.

Sunday. Discounted unlimited ride passes for a day or the entire festival (Mega Pass) can be purchased online at sweetcornfestival.com or at the chamber office, 800 Washington St. The Mega Pass is $60 in advance and $75 during the festival.

Find a complete schedule for this event at sweetcornfestival.com/schedule. ❚

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Y O

‘School House Rock the Blocks’ is Aug. 11 T his year marks the fourth Shop the Blocks season in downtown Rockford. The 2018 River District Association Board of Directors has ushered in a new era for the popular retail event by partnering with other local organizations and giving each event a theme.

The final Shop the Block event of the season will be School House Rock the Blocks on Saturday, Aug. 11, from noon to 5 p.m. and will provide one last summer hurrah before everyone settles back into the school year routine.

“We really wanted to diversify the entertainment downtown this year,” says Missy Minnaert, River District Association Executive Director. “People want to do more than just shop when they come downtown. It’s about the whole experience – eating, walking around, listening to music, etc.”

The August Shop the Blocks is a fam-

ily friendly event that will emphasize back-to-school specials for kids. School House Rock the Blocks is partnering with organizations such as Midway Village, Rocktown Adventures and the YMCA. Local shops will feature specials on items like shoes and clothing.

And what’s a last hurrah without one last trip to the beach? The River District is bringing the beach to downtown! Several large sandboxes will be set up along Water Street next to the water fountain. Bring your beach gear and spend the afternoon building sand castles along the river.

Downtown retailers participating in Shop the Blocks have specially made shopping bags from Rockford Art Deli to promote their specials. Those bags

will be given to customers who come and shop during School House Rock the Blocks, and consumers are encouraged to bring the bags they received at either of the past two Shop the Blocks events.

They’re made possible by a generous donation from Illinois Bank & Trust.

Learn more about volunteering for Shop the Blocks or participating as a themed vendor by emailing marketing@ riverdistrict.com. ❚

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Y O

40th Festa Italiana This Weekend, Aug. 3-5

By Peggy Werner

I

n its 40th year, Festa Italiana will dish up more of what it’s known for, with a few added ingredients, Aug. 3-5 on the grounds of Boylan High School, 4000 St. Francis Dr. Festa Italiana has the distinction of being the longest-running festival of its kind in Rockford and is the largest fundraiser for the Greater Rockford Italian American Association (GRIAA), a notfor-profit organization that raises scholarship money for local youths.

Karen Cantele, of the Festa executive committee, says people just expect certain things the first weekend in August each year.

“That’s one reason we have lasted as long as we have, because we’re dependable and family friendly, and there is something for everyone,” says Cantele.

“Whether or not you’re Italian, everyone embraces the Italian spirit, expects a great

time, and it’s one big family reunion.”

Festa is a weekend of Italian food and pastries, continuous live music for all ages, an Italian Cultural Tent, the Amici Italiani Adult Dance Troupe, carnival rides, a bocce tournament, kid’s crafts, games and more.

New this year will be a craft beer tasting tent. For $20, people get a souvenir beer mug for tasting a wide variety of craft beers from several local and regional breweries. Also new is a three-day four-person family pass for $50; a twoday individual pass for $7 and extended carnival hours from 1 to 6 p.m. Saturday and from noon to 7 p.m. Sunday. Strawberry shortcake is a new addition to the Sfingi tent. (Sfingi are Italian donuts.)

There’s also Italian sausage and beef sandwiches, meatballs, a pizza tent, toasted and fried ravioli, mozzarella sticks, fried zucchini, pork chop sandwiches,

fresh roasted corn, hot dogs, granita and 4,000 homemade Italian cookies.

For the second year, the Marketplace will host about 15 vendors and crafters.

On Saturday, live entertainment will begin at 4 p.m. with Festa favorite Tony Spavone. Find a complete schedule at FestaItalianaRockford.com.

General admission is $5 and tickets can be purchased at the gate or in advance at participating Kelley Williamson locations. Hours: 5-11 p.m. Fri.; noon-11 p.m.

Sat.; and noon-8 p.m. Sunday. ❚

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Y H

Positive Feedback for LASIK Surgery

By Lindsey Gapen

W

hen it comes to advertising, wordof-mouth recommendations have a high credibility. The free opinion of a trusted friend or family member carries more weight than any paid-for commercial.

Thanks to strong word-of-mouth, Dr. Edward Yavitz, an ophthalmologist, attracts patients from across the Midwest for LASIK eye surgery – a procedure that involves reshaping the cornea in order to treat farsightedness, nearsightedness and astigmatism.

“I have 10,000 happy LASIK patients, which creates quite a sales force,” Yavitz says. “All you have to do is go to the Internet and see the comments.”

With such positive word-of-mouth feedback, Yavitz spends less on advertising and keeps fees for LASIK up to 50 percent less than other offices.

“People like to go to someone who has a lot of experience,” Yavitz says, “And I’m operating on second and even third generations of family members now since I began. That’s real experience.”

Yavitz completes three steps during a LASIK procedure. First, he precisely creates a flap and folds back a thin layer of the cornea. Second, using an excimer laser, he removes an exact amount of corneal tissue in seconds. Finally, he folds the corneal tissue back into place, allowing it to adhere without the need for stitches.

Yavitz performs more than 100 LASIK eye surgeries per month and has taught LASIK around the world. He even has several patents for devices used to

make LASIK a safer, more predictable surgery.

To schedule a free consultation regarding LASIK, call (815) 395-8338 or visit Yavitz Eye Center at 4105 N. Perryville Road, Loves Park. ❚ (Paid Advertorial)

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August 1

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

ILLINOIS, USA

Garden, with more than 500 different species of trees, shrubs and vines, all glowing in autumn’s glory. Indoors, our concert and theater season will be gaining momentum at Coronado Performing Arts Center, a beautifully restored downtown vaudeville house. Plus, our Riverfront Museum Campus will be coming alive for the whole family. Visit gorockford.com today for a full list of autumn special events, festivals, gardens, golf and more.

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau NWQ_fall.indd 1

102 N. Main St.

Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Tourism

Attractions & Events

Music on the Mall – Edgebrook Most Fridays 6:30-8:30 p.m. Bring your own chair. 1639 N. Alpine Road, (815) 226-0212, edgebrookshops.com.

Rockford, IL 61101

1.800.521.0849

gorockford.com

Music in the Park Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7 p.m. Rockford Park District, Sinnissippi Park Music Shell and other locations. Check website for full schedule. (815) 987-8800, rockfordparkdistrict.org.

9/10/07 2:07:37 PM

RAM Midwestern Biennial Show Now to Sept. 30, daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. RAM, (815) 968-2787, rockfordartmuseum.org.

'Anything Goes' Aug. 1-5, Wed.-Sun. 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. An age-old tale of boy meets girl, with plenty of laughs and Cole Porter music. Starlight Theatre, RVC, Rockford, (815) 921-2160, rockvalleycollege.edu.

Jerry Seinfeld Aug. 3, 7 p.m. Coronado PAC. Tickets: (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.

Tuesday Evening in the Gardens Aug. 7, Lilly Hiatt from Nashville, Tenn., with local band The Lone Canary opening.

Gates open at 5 p.m., 5:45 performance.

318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 2299390, andersongardens.org.

Tunes on the Terrace: H!P Pocket Aug. 8, 6-8 p.m. A variety of smooth jazz, R&B, pop and popular sounds. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, Rockford, (815) 987-8858, rockfordparkdistrict.org/ncg.

Magical Gardens Aug. 11, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Family members of all ages can explore enchanting landscapes at Midway Village Museum and take part in tours, crafts and games focused on natural wonders. 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, midwayvillage.org. (815) 397Midwayvillage.com.

‘Cinderella After the Ball’ Aug. 9-12, Thu.-Sat. 11 a.m., Sat. 3 p.m. This princess-powered musical for kids of all ages follows Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and Rapunzel as they team up to defend their kingdom. Starlight Theatre, RVC, Rockford, (815) 921-2160, rockvalleycollege.edu.

Enjoy Tunes on the Terrace at Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens on Wednesday nights.

Tunes on the Terrace: Paper Airplane Aug. 15, 6-8 p.m. The acoustic guitar and vocal duo of Noel and Amy Nickel perform songs from the ’60s to today. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, Rockford, (815) 987-8858, rockfordparkdistrict.org/ncg.

'The Realistic Joneses' Aug. 16-Sept. 8, Thu.-Sat. 8 p.m. Meet the Joneses, two suburban couples with identical homes and shared last names. [usual] Suspects, Nordlof Center, Rockford. Info: rockfordpubliclibrary.org.

Klehm Woodsong Concert: The Jimmys Aug. 19, 6 p.m. Grounds open at 4 p.m.

Bring a blanket & picnic, and enjoy the music of this eight-piece band, influenced

by Chicago blues and New Orleans funk.

(815) 965-8146, klehm.org.

Tunes on the Terrace: Kelly Steward Aug. 22, 6-8 p.m. The Rockford singer/ songwriter entertains with haunting indieflavored country meditations. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, Rockford, (815) 987-8858, rockfordparkdistrict.org/ncg.

Guitarzapalooza Aug. 25, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. The lineup for this year’s Crossroads Blues Festival includes Toronzo Cannon and The Monster Mike Welch/Mike Ledbetter bands. Lyran Park, 4791 South Bend Road, Rockford, (779) 537-4006, crossroadsbluesfestival.com.

Tunes on the Terrace: Kevin Earlywine Aug. 29, 6-8 p.m. The local singer/songwriter incorporates familiar classics from the ’50s and ’60s. Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, Rockford, (815) 987-8858, rockfordparkdistrict.org/ncg. ❚

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WDL

Capital House: Delightful Downtown Dining

By Jermaine Pigee

C

apital House, 308 W. State St., is impressing locals with its high quality lunches and dinners, unique urban atmosphere and delicious fresh coffees and pastries, signature martinis and more.

Robin Young of KenDev LLC and her partner, Ted Brothers, have long envisioned a hybrid restaurant, meaning multiple menus working together to please a wide variety of people visiting at various times of day and night. Now that vision has come to life.

Customers are already claiming their favorite items, from crab cake appetizers and homemade New England Clam Chowder to lunchtime lime chicken wraps and succulent steak or seafood dinners.

“Lunch, coffee and pastries are for people who work down here, mostly young professionals, or people who work in the courts or federal offices,” Brothers says. “Then, at night, we see urban

dwellers and those who actually live around here.”

The establishment is located in the space formerly occupied by Kryptonite bar.

Its extensive cocktail menu features martinis made with top shelf brands and signature drinks like the Capital House, made with Kahlua, Jameson’s Irish whiskey and a splash of creme de menthe, topped with whipped cream. The wine Alaskan King Salmon with Lobster Risotto list includes selections from Among seafood entree items are France and Napa Valley.

Alaskan king salmon filet served with The lunch menu can be found online lobster risotto, seared diver scallops, and includes fresh salads like the $7 Kale grilled amberjack and Norwegian shrimp Caesar or $12 Tuna Poke and sandwiches pasta with squid ink capellini. like $8 Smokey Yardbird smoked turHours: Tues.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. key. Farm-fresh seasonal flavors are used and Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.- midnight. Learn abundantly. more and find the live entertainment By nightfall, full dinners are enjoyed schedule at capitalhouse.biz. ❚ in the cozy urban atmosphere.

In the Spotlight

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prairie Street Brewhouse  Upscale-Casual/American.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Smart Living Weekly

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Union Alchemy Dairy

T

he trendy his Union restaurant Dairy, 26 E. inside Douglas GiovanSt., ni’s, Freeport, 610 N.sells Bell old-fashioned School Road, Rocktreats like ford, offers cones,ansundaes, out-of-the-ordinary banana splits experiand handmade ence in a big-city sodas,atmosphere. malts and root beer floats, “Alchemy made with has51itsflavors own vibe of iceand cream. feel,” says Al It also Castrogiovanni, has a grill that chefserves and founder.

19 kinds “I of always hamburgers, had a vision plusandhot knew dogs, what brats I wantand sandwiches, ed to do. Weand do a Freeport-made lot of out-of-the-box Mrs. Mike’s thinkingpotato and customize chips. It fries everything.” up onion rings, cheese The curds, full service dill pickles, bar features sweet36potato craft waffle beers fries on tap. andEverything more. on the menu is madeThe from burger scratch meat with is ground fresh ingredients. fresh daily at family-owned Pizzas made from Harbach handcrafted Meats, indough, Freeport with names since 1929. like Chicago The cheese Dog and is made Thai Pie, at Springrook are baked inCheese a wood-fi Factory re oven. in Classic nearby fare Davis, includes Ill. Union pastas, Dairy soups, also salads, sells burgers customized and ice cream cakes, cookie ice cream sandwiches, all with a special twist,sandand wiches and hand-packed ice cream quarts. daily specials.

Hours: Daily 11 lunch a.m.-1011p.m. untilp.m.

LaAlchemy serves a.m.-2 bor Day; then a.m.-9 The Mon.-Fri.; andTues.-Sun. dinner 11 4-10 p.m.p.m.

Mon.grill Thurs. closes and at4-11 8 p.m. p.m. daily Fri.-Sat. and isThe closed baron is Sundays. open later. ❚ ❚

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Y T

It’s ‘Not that Hard’ to Pay Less for Tech

By Peggy Werner

customer walks into EZ Satellite and Wireless, 6239 N. 2nd St. in Loves Park, and within a few minutes leaves happier than when he came in, after finding out how to pay less for internet, phone and television services.

During the customer’s visit, EZ Satellite and Wireless Owner and General Manager Charles Zambrano asks him questions about the number of televisions in his home, his favorite channels, whether he enjoys streaming and recording, how many phones he has and if he needs high-speed internet.

Zambrano’s goal is to help every customer save money.

“Most customers are paying too much, up to $250 for phone, television and internet. I can save them $50 to $100 per month. With every customer, I can offer them the best each company has to offer,” he says.

“A lot of people are not happy with

their tech services, but they’re afraid to change or don’t have time to do the research to find a better deal. It’s not that hard to get a better deal and start saving money,” he says.

Zambrano’s business has doubled since he moved it to the Loves Park location from Roscoe two years ago. Although he plans to open a second store in the future, a more immediate goal is to start selling, installing and servicing security cameras and surveillance systems within the next few months.

What sets his business apart from others, he says, is personal attention, good customer service and honesty.

“I make sure the customers know exactly what they are getting and that they are not paying for services they don’t want or need,” he says.

EZ Satellite &Wireless is an authorized dish network retailer licensed to offer services from any other provider using dish, cable, internet and home security, such as Rise Broadband, Comcast, Frontier, HughesNet, DirectTV, Digitenna and Protect America.

Learn more by calling EZ Satellite & Wireless at (815) 957-4335 or by visiting the office. ❚

Get up close with the best technology in TV entertainment.

Get a personal demo covering your new HD DVR, Voice Remote, and more.

Get America’s favorite entertainment

For the best value, technology, and service with a local touch, choose your DISH Authorized Retailer.

Proudly serving ROCKFORD, ILLINOIS since 2011 Ranked #1 in Customer Service nationally by J.D. Power and our customers.

Get help from your neighborhood Retailer.

Enjoy friendly, personalized service, including advice, installation, and support.

Support local business.

Besides getting best-in-class customer service, you’ll also be supporting your local community!

DISH Network received the highest numerical score for customer service and second highest score for overall customer satisfaction among national TV providers in the J.D. Power 2017 U.S. Television Service Provider Satisfaction Study, based on 18,685 total responses, measuring the experiences and perceptions of customers with their TV service provider, surveyed November 2016-July 2017. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com

Call your local DISH Authorized Retailer today!

Ezsatellite & Wireless Inc.

(815) 957-4469

BDRIVE_21796

A

6239 N 2nd St, Suite B wwww.ezsatellitenow.com

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