Stephanie N. Grimoldby, Janine Pumilia, Peggy Werner
General Sales Manager Brent Hughes
Sales Manager Brad Hughes
Advertising Sales Representatives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones, Nita Lasky
Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes
Director of Corporate Happiness Hana Hughes
“Acknowledgements”
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I’d like to recognize the people in my life who really make a difference. These people are steady, giving souls who make this world a better place.
First, my mentor, Janine Pumilia. If you’re a new reader to Smart Living, Janine was the heart behind this publication long before I came along. Though she’s retired, Janine still writes our monthly inspiration column (pro bono!) and somehow finds time to give me the most thoughtful advice I could ever ask for. She has a rare gift of lifting people higher while keeping them grounded, and I’m endlessly thankful for her guidance and generosity.
Next, my son’s preschool teacher, Ms. Caine, is nothing short of a saint. Her patience is infinite; her kindness is unshakable. She sees my 4-year-old son – who has lots of additional needs – with understanding and creativity.
My sister Nicole is a nurse who doubles as the world’s greatest aunt. Working in pediatric surgery, she’s seen a despicable amount of heartbreak, yet somehow, she still manages to show up. My worst day is nothing compared to hers.
I’m also thankful for the heroes in my own home life: my mom and mother-inlaw, who step in to babysit without hesitation, often with baked goods. Their love and reliability make it possible for me to do this job. And then there’s my husband, who could teach a masterclass in how to be a good human.
This Thanksgiving, I’m reminded that the world is held together by people like Janine, Ms. Caine and my family. These are people who give their time, energy and hearts so freely. I could never fully thank them in 300 words of space, but hopefully they feel my gratitude.
To all the helpers and healers among us: I see you, and thank you. ❚
Lindsey Lukas Senior Editor
Discover a New Hometown Tradition
By Jim Taylor, managing editor
Each summer, people flock to Beloit’s ABC Supply Stadium to cheer on their hometown baseball team, the Sky Carp. Now that baseball season is over and the holiday season has begun, fans have a new reason to cheer. Hometown Holiday Lights, the stadium’s dazzling new winter attraction, ushers in a sparkling new tradition: turning the ballpark into a festive wonderland for the entire community.
“This is our first-ever event like this, and we are so excited to bring it to the southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois region,” says Zach Brockman, president of the Sky Carp.
Through Jan. 4, the stadium shimmers with more than a million lights choreographed to holiday music. Guests stroll along the concourse and onto the field, where illuminated tunnels, themed
displays and interactive features bring the holiday spirit to life. They can also board a jolly holiday train that rolls through the stands for a bird’s-eye view. Fire pits offer warmth for chilly hands, and hot cocoa keeps hearts cozy. No holiday event is complete without a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. They’re at the stadium, too, so they can greet guests while kids drop off letters, try their hand at crafts or join a seasonal scavenger hunt.
ries and a holiday tradition everyone can share.
Group packages are available for businesses, organizations and families who want a private indoor space, festive food and drinks, and a front-row view of the lights up in the box seats.
Brockman envisions the new event as a way to gather families at the stadium, creating joyful moments, lasting memo-
“There’s nothing better than seeing families come together to make memories at the ballpark – even when there’s no baseball being played,” he says. “The lights, the music, and the joy it brings to the community make it truly special.” ❚ Grab tickets and find more information at SkyCarp.com.
Hometown Holiday Lights continues through Jan. 4.
Lie Detectors
Falseprophets have waged war on truth since time began.
“They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves,” Jesus warned a crowd during his Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 7:15 NIV). “By their fruit you will recognize them.”
Looking at the fruit people produce, rather than their words, is clarifying. Do they set into motion love or hate? Unity or division? Forgiveness or revenge? Gratitude or griping? Generosity or greed? Humility or hubris? Compassion or cruelty? In other words, are they promoting Christ’s values or their own sins of the flesh? Good fruit or bad?
In his letter to the young church at Galatia, Paul lists sexual immorality, selfish ambition, pride, fits of rage, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, discord, jealousy and drunkenness among sins of the flesh.
By contrast, good spiritual fruit includes “love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and selfcontrol.” (Galatians 5:22)
Another key to detecting truth is personally grounding ourselves in scripture. Unless we read Jesus’ words with our own eyes, how can we know if others are putting words in his mouth? Satan knows scripture (Matthew 4:6) and so must we as individuals. Merely listening to what someone says about him is no substitute.
When challenged by pompous religious leaders (Sadducees), Jesus said, “You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God” (Matthew 22:29). Understanding scripture is essential to avoiding falsehood.
Another powerful key to discerning truth is prayerfully listening to the holy spirit that lives inside of us.
“If you love me, keep my commands,” Jesus told his disciples. “And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever –the Spirit of Truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.” (John 14: 15-17)
God will deal with the false prophets. Our job is to know and obey Christ’s commands, in love. ❚ -- Janine Pumilia
Dial 211: United Way Provides Support
By Peggy Werner
Whenlife throws a curveball, help may just be three digits away.
Dialing 211 is a free service that links individuals to human and social services for non-emergency needs, including housing, food, transportation, job training, healthcare and counseling. It’s available to everyone, regardless of age or circumstance, and serves people with disabilities as well as veterans.
“People often associate calling 211 with the financially needy, but any of us could need services provided by the network at any time,” says Mishel Browning, who recently joined United Way of Rock River Valley to strengthen and expand the 211 network in Winnebago County. The program is funded locally by United Way.
Since January, the Winnebago County 211 has handled more than 3,500 re-
quests for assistance by phone, email or text. Residents can also find help online at IL211.org, or by texting their zip code to 898-211. The most recent inquiries have come from people struggling to afford basic needs, Browning says.
In her new role, Browning has met with nearly 40 community organizations, including nonprofits, human service agencies and local government leaders.
“My job is to let people know our 211 network is being revitalized and will be better than ever by connecting with more agencies and serving more people,” she says.
Julie Bosma, president and CEO of United Way of Rock River Valley, says she hopes calling 211 becomes the natural first step whenever someone faces a challenge.
“I want calling 211 to be the first
thing people think of when a need arises,” she says. “We’re working to make the network as strong and trusted as possible.”
Janessa Wilkins, director of community programs with Comprehensive Community Solutions and 7th Ward Alderwoman on Rockford’s City Council, says 211 is a vital resource she regularly recommends.
“It’s not always easy to get help, but if you know where to turn, people can feel empowered,” she says. “I always tell people, if you don’t get what you need, call me back. But when they do call back, it’s usually to say ‘thank you.’” ❚
Holiday Magic Happens at Stroll on State
By Peggy Werner
In its 13th year, Stroll on State is Rockford’s kickoff to the holiday season and is meant to be a warm and welcoming homecoming, whether or not you live here.
A project of GoRockford, (formerly Rockford Area Visitor and Convention Bureau) and funded by dozens of local sponsors, the event is always held on Small Business Saturday. This year’s event is from 2-9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29 in downtown Rockford, in an area bor-
dered by Jefferson, Church, Chestnut and Third streets.
“The whole purpose of the event is to bring the community together and take time to welcome in the holiday season,” says Kristen Paul, executive vice president of GoRockford. “We just want everyone to enjoy the holiday to the fullest and get into the spirit.”
Each year brings something brand new, heightened experiences and muchloved traditional events. This season, there’s a sensory Santa, an even larger drone display with new Rockford and
holiday images set to music, and the parade is bigger than ever, Paul says.
“The parade has more than 10 Macy-style balloons, many with a Rockford theme, among the dozens of participating units,” she says. The drone show takes place immediately following the 6:15 p.m. city tree lighting at the corner of Main and Elm streets.
Stroll has grown each year with a special focus on downtown decorations, lights, displays, horse wagon rides, letters to Santa, indoor ice skating, photo opportunities, the Dasher Dash 5k race, a fam-
Letters to Santa is one of many activities at Stroll.
Stroll on State happens Nov. 29 from 2-9 p.m.
The annual tree lighting takes place at 6:15 p.m.
Get Connec ted. Get Help.™
ily fun zone, live music on several indoor and outdoor stages, a huge food court, food trucks and tents, local vendors and fireworks, all with a holiday theme and attracting about 80,000 people from the Stateline area and beyond.
Downtown businesses have extended hours and holiday specials during Stroll and many of them will continue the holiday promotions throughout the season. Small Business Saturday encourages people to support local shop owners. The stores not only have discounted specials, but also some activities and events.
“We are a community that embraces the holidays,” Paul says. “I hear from
people all of the time how proud they are of Rockford and what it has accomplished. At one time, there wasn’t even a city Christmas tree.”
The 50-foot-tall Blue Spruce city Christmas tree looks more spectacular each year with new ornaments, like this year’s globe ornaments and massive snowflakes, as well as 30,000 multi-colored lights, a flashing strobe light and an elaborate tree topper.
Next year, the Davis Park renovation is expected to be complete in time for Stroll, Paul adds. The only city-owned park will have new and exciting features including a stage for local and regional acts, new concessions and bathroom facilities, a playground, skate park, riverfront recreational path, a new seawall and expanded parking.
Meanwhile, teams of people are needed to prepare for this year’s Stroll on State.
Volunteers are always needed and can come to workshops without prior
registration. Workshops are held from 6-9 p.m. every Tuesday and from 8 a.m.-noon every Saturday in November. Volunteers are also needed to decorate the downtown on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 2122. Those wanting to help before, during or after the event can sign up for specific times, days and locations at gorockford. com or just show up. ❚
During Stroll, bus shuttles will run a continuous loop, making stops about every 15 minutes at Bethesda Covenant Church, 2101 E. State St.; Crusader Clinic, 1200 W. State St., and the YMCA, 200 Y Blvd. For more information on Stroll, go to gorockford.com.
This year’s tree has massive new ornaments.
Fireworks take place in the evening at Stroll.
A Holiday Tradition with Handel’s “Messiah”
By Peggy Werner
Handel’s “Messiah” was first performed 283 years ago in Dublin, Ireland, but today is a worldwide tradition that for many audiences grows only more meaningful each year.
“‘Messiah’ is just one of those pieces you can listen to dozens of times and hear something new each time,” says Rockford Choral Union (RCU) Conductor Michael Beert.
This year, RCU’s performances are at 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday Nov. 29-30 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 930 3rd Ave. The choral union’s Facebook page will also livestream both performances.
RCU, once known as the Lutheran Choral Union, was established in 1945 for the sole purpose of performing “Messiah.” Today’s all-volunteer group of musicians represents more than 60 area
churches and schools from throughout the Rockford region and Chicago suburbs and features a 15-piece chamber orchestra, an organist, four soloists, a harpsichordist and vocalists.
The English-spoken oratorio composed by George Frideric Handel tells a sacred story about man’s sinful nature and Christ’s redemption. “Messiah” is a statement of hope and faith, drawing its inspiration from the Old and New Testaments in the areas of prophecy and fulfillment and suffering and redemption, Beert says.
“Handel was all about trying to express what was happening in Jesus’s life from the prophecies of the Old Testament to Revelation, through words and music,” Beert adds. “Baroque composers, like Handel, were most interested in conveying emotion as a story is told.”
Soloists this year include Tenor Michael Day and Baritone Nicolai Janitzky, who both sang in the production last year. Soprano Amy Conn is returning to Rockford after last singing in the production five years ago. New this year is MezzoSoprano Aria Beert, the daughter of the conductor and his wife, Concert Master Rachel Handlin. ❚
For more information, visit rockfordchoralunion.com.
Window Coverings 101: Know the Basics
By Chris Linden, executive editor
Nobody likes a bare window, especially if you’re looking to filter out sunlight or get a little privacy. There are plenty of options out there, but what’s right for your home? That’s where a little input from an experienced team can make all the difference.
The showroom at ZNL Window Coverings offers a good peek at what’s available. Blinds, shades, shutters and draperies come in many styles and colors, and each is custom-made to fit your windows and your budget.
“We have upwards of 100 blinds and shades on the wall, and we invite people to look and touch, feel and see what’s available,” says Bill Lapins, owner of ZNL.
Window shades are among the most popular choice today, and they come in many forms. Cellular or honeycomb shades trap air between the fabric and
help to insulate your home. With the transitional or “zebra” shade, twist it one way and it completely blocks light; twist it the other way to gently filter sunlight.
These options come with several upgrades, including a cordless option that stays exactly where you want it. One of the most requested add-ons is the motorized shade, which runs by remote control or a smartphone app.
Draperies are making a strong comeback, particularly with options like the luxurious, contemporary look of the ripple fold.
The ZNL team custom-designs its products, offers a lifetime warranty, and manufactures some items on-site. The team also services and repairs window coverings of all kinds.
If you don’t know what you want, one of three seasoned sales designers will navigate you through the process, which
includes an in-home consultation and a visit to the showroom.
“It’s unique in this area to have people who do custom draperies and window coverings,” says Lapins. “The fact that we manufacture and service products, and the fact that we have a lot of people who’ve done this work for a long time, that truly sets us apart.” ❚
ZNL Window Coverings is located at 2120 Harlem Ave., in Loves Park. Call (815) 654-0870 for an estimate.
Draperies and transitional “zebra” shades are some of the most popular options in window coverings today.
(Graber photo)
How Gut Health Impacts Your Well-Being
By Stephanie N. Grimoldby
Your gut tells you a lot. Sometimes it’s just an instinct or a reaction to news. Or maybe it’s a gut punch when something has gone wrong. There may actually be a scientific reason for those feelings.
“That ‘gut feeling,’ that ‘gut reaction,’ isn’t just a figure of speech – it’s rooted in science,” says Dr. Roger Kapoor, senior vice president of Beloit Health System, a practicing dermatologist and a clinical assistant professor at the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford. “It’s kind of an interesting phenomenon. Your digestive system literally connects to your brain through what’s called the ‘gut-brain axis.’ It’s almost like a direct phone line between your intestines and your central nervous system, and that’s why people have that ‘gut feeling.’ It literally carries signals on
the vagus nerve. That’s how important your gut health is.”
Gut health has more of an impact on overall health that most people know, Kapoor adds. For example, the majority of serotonin in the body is made in the gut, not the brain.
“Serotonin is the main chemical that regulates mood, sleep, appetite and even how we process pain,” Kapoor says. “It’s often referred to as the ‘feel-good hormone.’ And 90% of that is made in the gut. It’s incredible what a major role gut health plays in our well-being, not only our physical well-being but our emotional well-being and our overall appearance, as well.”
Your skin is a window to your inner health, Kapoor adds.
“Eczema and overall dullness of the skin sometimes can be reflected by eating
processed foods and things that trigger inflammation. If the gut – and the bacteria within it – get out of balance, this can trigger skin inflammation.”
Certain foods, however, will not only help balance your gut health but also benefit your skin health, Kapoor says.
“Fatty fish, like salmon, contains Omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier,” he says. “Berries and carrots – and of course all of your greens – are loaded with antioxidants, which protect against free radicals produced by the sun and by pollution.” ❚
Stress-Busting Programs
Dementia & Chronic Illness
Program Details
When & Where
Wednesdays for 9 Weeks January 7th-March 4th
10:00 AM-11:30 AM- Northwestern Illinois Area Agency on Aging, 1111 S. Alpine Rd, Rockford, IL. DEMENTIA FOCUS
2:00 PM-3:30 PM- Lifescape Community Services, 615 N. Longwood St, Rockford, IL. CHRONIC ILLNESS FOCUS
5:00 PM-6:30 PM- Lifescape Adult Day Program, 1330 S. Alpine Rd, Rockford, IL. DEMENTIA FOCUS
The Stress-Busting Program (SBP) for Family Caregivers™ is an evidence-based program that provides support to family caregivers of persons with dementia or a chronic illness. It has been proven to improve the quality of life for family caregivers who provide care to an older loved one, helping them manage their stress and cope better with their lives.
During the Stress Busting Program for Family Caregivers™, caregivers will:
• Learn about stress and its effects
• Practice stress management techniques
• Develop problem-solving skills
Registration Required! Call 815-490-1107
Limited to the first 10 participants per class
9-Week Stress Management
Evidence-Based Program
Week 1: Getting Started
Week 2: Stress: Effects on Mind, Body and Spirit
Week 3: Caregiver Stress and Relaxation
Week 4: Facing Challenges
Week 5: Grief, Loss and Depression
Week 6: Coping with Stress
Week 7: Positive Thinking
Week 8: Taking Care of Yourself
Week 9: Choosing a Path of Wellness
Illuminated
Dec. 4-14, Thurs.-Sun. 5-8:30 p.m.; Dec. 18Jan. 4, daily 5-8:30 p.m. Enjoy the wintertime light experience with thousands of lights woven throughout the Garden. Woodfire Pizza and a rotating schedule of food trucks nightly. Anderson Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 229-9390, andersongardens.org.
David Foster & Katharine McPhee
Dec. 5, 7 p.m. Foster is a legendary musician, composer, arranger and record producer who is known for producing some of the most iconic ballads and pop hits of the past few decades. McPhee is a singer, actress and Broadway performer who rose to fame as the runner-up on season five of “American Idol” in 2006. Hard Rock Casino, 7801 E. State St., Rockford, (779) 2699010, casino.hardrock.com.
Holiday Magic: A Night at the Movies’
Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. Rockford University choirs and soloists take you on a nostalgic journey through Hollywood’s most memorable holiday movies including classics such as “White Christmas,” “Meet Me in St. Louis,” “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” “Love Actually” and “Nightmare Before Christmas.” Maddox Theatre, Rockford University, 5050 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 226-4100, rockford.edu.
Second City Chorus
Dec. 6, 3 p.m. The area’s mixed voice a capella chorus presents their annual holiday concert. Spring Creek United Church of Christ, 4500 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 979-1949, springcreekucc.org.
‘The Nutcracker’
Dec. 6-7, Sat. 6 p.m., Sun. 3 p.m. The holiday classic is presented by the Rockford Dance Company
Entertainment & Events
and Rockford Symphony Orchestra. Coronado Theatre, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 9650049, rockfordsymphony.com.
Luminaria Magic
Dec. 12-13, 5-9 p.m. Pathways come alive with the soft glow of luminaria lights. Listen to music by Canto Zenzero on Friday and SwingBilly RFD on Saturday. Hot cocoa and s’mores stations are on site. Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road, Rockford, (815) 335-2915, seversondells.com.
Christmas in the Trenches
Dec. 13, 10-11:30 a.m. See a reenactment of the 1914 World War I Christmas truce, when soldiers called an unofficial ceasefire during the
holiday week. Sing carols, sip hot chocolate, view artifacts and more. Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, (815) 397-9112, midwayvillage.com.
Broadway at the Coronado: ‘Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol’ Dec. 14, 6:30 p.m. The musical features songs by the country singer and a story adapted by American author David H. Bell. Coronado Theatre, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-5222, coronado.asmrockford.com.
Dean Z: The Ultimate Elvis
Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m. The high-energy tribute show takes a musical journey through the 20-year career of the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” from his rise to fame in the 1950s to his infamous Las Vegas performances in the 1970s. Coronado Theatre, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-5222, coronado.asmrockford.com.
RSO: “Holiday Pops’
Dec. 20, 7:30 p.m. Hear favorite melodies to get the whole family in the holiday spirit, with nearly 200 performers gathered from throughout the community. Guest appearances by The Nielsen Chorale, Kantorei, Rockford’s Premier Youth Orchestra, Christopher Brady and more. Coronado Theatre, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 965-0049, rockfordsymphony.org.
Irish Christmas
Dec. 21, 3 p.m. The Irish Marching Society gathers Danny McDade, Emerald Wind and Trinadora for a reflection on the yuletide traditions of the Emerald Isle. Spring Creek United Church of Christ, 4500 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 979-1949, springcreekucc.org. ❚
