Smart Living Rockford - March 2026

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden

Senior Editor Lindsey Lukas

Managing Editor Jim Taylor

Assistant Editor Steven Bonifazi

Graphics Director Samantha Behling

Graphic Designer Ashley Smith

Contributing

Choosing to Unplug

The more I talk to people, the more it seems that my friends and family are struggling right now. Times are tough, not just financially, but emotionally.

Between bank account balances and headlines about global tensions, the people in my orbit are buzzing with anxiety. It feels like it’s humming quietly in the background of daily life. And that’s understandable.

Humans aren’t wired to process a constant stream of global problems. For most of human history, our brains were built to focus on what was happening within a few miles of home. Today, we absorb every crisis happening everywhere, all the time. It’s no wonder stress levels can spike.

So, how do we stay steady when the world feels anything but?

I think one of the most helpful things we can do is recognize the difference between awareness and absorption. Staying informed is important. Obviously, as a journalist, I’m always going to encourage others to be aware of what’s happening in the world. But, absorbing every alarming headline isn’t healthy for anyone.

Sometimes the healthiest thing you can do is step away from the news... specifically social media, which is how more and more people receive their news (and that’s a whole separate column). Stepping away or taking a break doesn’t mean ignoring reality. It means protecting your peace of mind so you can function in your own life.

A simple but powerful tool is narrowing your focus. Anxiety thrives when our thoughts jump far into the future, imagining problems that may or may not happen. Instead, bring your attention back to what’s actually in front of you today. Your work. Your family. Your responsibilities. Those things matter far more to your daily well-being than the endless swirl of speculation online.

We can choose when to unplug. We can choose to step outside, take a deep breath and remind ourselves of what matters. ❚

Lindsey Lukas Senior Editor

What is Easter?

Eastercelebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who was executed by political and religious leaders in Jerusalem in about 33 A.D. This event opened an era of human history in which eternal life is offered to anyone who believes in Christ Jesus, the Messiah.

“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” - Galatians 3:28 (NIV)

Easter marks the fulfillment of many Old Testament prophecies, including those by Isaiah, made 1,000 years before Christ’s birth. Isaiah said a savior would be born in Bethlehem to a descendant of King David. He would be exalted, beaten and rejected; would be betrayed by a friend for 30 pieces of silver; would be silent before his accusers and would die with no bones broken. He would rise from the dead, in a rich man’s tomb, after three days and nights. All of these prophecies, and many more, came to pass.

What the prophets did not know was that Christ’s grace would extend to all people of the earth who believe, not just to Israel. Why didn’t they know it?

Because God didn’t wish to reveal His plan and give Satan/men a chance to foil it.

“None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory,” Paul explains in I Corinthians 2:8 (NIV).

Jesus fulfilled Mosaic law and replaced it with a far more powerful law of love and grace. Asked to name the greatest commandments, he said:

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt. 22:36-40 NIV)

It’s no coincidence that the resurrection of Jesus occurred during the Passover season, as Jews celebrated their ancestors’ miraculous escape from Egyptian slavery. The 10th plague was death to a first-born child in each household. Israelites who marked their doorposts with the blood of a spring lamb were “passed over” by death. Jesus is the innocent “lamb of God” who spares us from eternal death. ❚ – Janine Pumilia

All Aboard for Family Fun at Train Show

By Peggy Werner

Model railroading offers fun and learning for the whole family.

“It’s fascinating for kids and nostalgic for parents and grandparents, who have their own memories of a time when trains were more plentiful,” says Marty Hendrickx, superintendent of the Rock River Valley Division of the National Model Railroad Association. “I was five when I saw the first model railroad being built. It was exciting then and the feeling has never left me.”

The division’s 34th annual spring show is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 21, and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, March 22 at Harlem High School, 9229 N. Alpine Road.

“This show is one of the biggest in the area and certainly one of the most affordable and popular,” Hendrickx says.

About half of the 43,000 square feet

of space is filled with operating model layouts both large and small. The largest display is 40 feet long and 60 feet wide, with 15-20 people operating trains.

Dozens of vendors sell everything and anything having to do with trains, including new and used model cars and locomotives, supplies, signs, lanterns, t-shirts, hats and caps, and fine China used to serve food on popular passenger trains from the past. Harlem Fans Club is in charge of concessions, selling hot dogs, pizza, nachos and drinks.

Hendrickx says people are attracted to the hobby of model railroading for a variety of reasons. Some enjoy the mechanical and technical side of how the models are built and operate. Artistic

people enjoy the creative work of making the scenery for a layout and putting details on cars, while others love the historical aspects and researching.

“Model trains have been called the world’s greatest hobby because it encompasses so many different facets,”

Hendrickx says. “People can build and operate model trains or just collect them. People love to watch trains move. It’s not a static hobby and the operator has upclose control over the train. It’s easy to immerse yourself.”

Train collectors and hobbyists sometimes focus on recreating a particular railroad and cars that exist or did exist, sometimes focusing on a particular time period. Some of the layouts are realistic, but others are “whimsical” and as unique as the people creating the display.

Whether based on real or fictional places, many compress distances to scale,

just as the model trains themselves are scaled to the size of real trains. There are 23 model train sizes, all set by the NMRA. The five most common are O, HO, S, N, and G. About 65 percent of model railroaders use HO, with models scaled to 1/87th of the size of a real train. The G, or Garden size, is largest, at a scale of 1/22.5, and is often used in outdoor settings. The S group includes American Flyer trains scaled at 1/64th and the O group is scaled at 1/48th. The smallest scale is the N group, at 1/160th the size of a real train. The train scale shouldn’t be confused with the term, “gauge,” which refers to the distance between rails.

The Rock River Valley Division was chartered in 1967 and includes Boone, Jo Daviess, Ogle, DeKalb, Stephenson, Lee, Whiteside, and Winnebago Counties in Illinois and Green and Rock Counties in southern Wisconsin.

Monthly meetings are typically held from 1-3 p.m. the first Sunday of the month, September to May, at Paulson’s Agricultural Museum of Argyle, 6950 Belvidere Road, Caledonia. Those wanting to become members have an opportunity to sign up at the show. Admission is $5 per adult at the door. Children under 12 and scouts in uniform are admitted free. Door prizes are awarded every hour. ❚

Smart Fixes to Keep Your Home Toasty

By Chris Linden, executive editor

Although this winter is bidding farewell, some smart planning right now will ensure your roofing, siding, windows, doors and furnace are in top condition when winter returns.

Think of your roofing, siding, windows and gutters like an envelope, wrapping your entire house in a protective layer. Each part blocks cold air and water from entering. Though they appear to work independently, they’re also an interconnected system. A weakness in one place can cause problems down the line.

Here’s an example: Justin Swanson, owner of JM Construction Group in Rockford, took a call this winter from someone who thought he had a small problem with his roof. When the crew showed up, they saw a big problem: the roof was covered in ice.

“We looked at all of the other roofs

around him, and they had snow. There were no problems,” says Swanson, whose team specializes in roofing, siding, windows and gutters. “So, we called in an insulation expert and he said there was insulation missing everywhere. So, the heat was just going right through the house, melting all the snow on the roof. Then, at night it froze and turned the whole house into one huge icicle.”

Chances are, your home doesn’t have such an extreme issue, but it could have a smaller problem you don’t recognize.

If you do notice a problem this late in the season, a roofing professional can still intervene. Most repairs are better done in the warm months, Swanson says, but there are emergency measures that will help now.

Heat tape, placed along the gutter, will help to reduce ice damming. On

warmer days, crews can make minor repairs to shingles. But the best way to guard against winter’s chill is still a good dose of prevention.

“The best precaution is to make sure you know the age of your roof and you’re checking for signs of damage,” says Swanson. “Make sure you have proper attic insulation and ventilation. Make sure all penetrations are sealed and transitions are good. Your roof, siding, gutters, insulation, they all rely on each other, so if one is off they affect all of the others.” ❚

Keep Your Houseplants Thriving

By Steven Bonifazi, assistant editor

Most people walk into garden centers and nurseries with a specific plant in mind – often something eye-catching or trending online. That approach is a sure path to heartbreak, says Tyler Hagemann, owner of Merlin’s Greenhouse & Flowers in Oregon, Ill.

The wiser approach is to start with the house, not the plant.

“The very first question I ask people is, ‘Where is the plant going to be located in your house?’” Hagemann says. “Location is everything.”

Location determines how much light reaches the leaves and how quickly a pot loses moisture. That, in turn, determines how much day-to-day attention the plant needs.

Light, of course, is key to a healthy plant. Summer days push sunlight deep into rooms, giving neglected plants

enough sunlight to get by. Winter is less forgiving, with its shorter days.

And here’s something else to think about: windows tend to steal sunlight.

“If your plant is indoors, sunlight has to pass through your home’s windows,” Hagemann says. “That window cuts out so much light.”

To remove the guesswork, Merlin’s rents out PPFD light testers, essentially a plant-focused light meter. Set the tester where you want a plant to go, and it reports how much usable light reaches that spot during the day.

Hagemann encourages homeowners to take it home, set it in the intended spot and bring back the reading.

“I tell people it’s best to get these light readings in the winter,” he says, “because those are your absolute lowest light levels you’re going to see.”

Hagemann steers beginners toward plants that tend to tolerate lower light, missed waterings and dry winter air.

Snake plants, also known as motherin-law’s tongue, sit at the top of his list, followed by spider plants, pothos, peace lilies, English ivy, Boston ferns, aloe and dracaenas.

“I recommend those plants, but when someone is ready to step into the next level, that’s when I suggest they grab that light meter from me and give me a light reading,” he says. “Then they can step it up and get into these fancier plants.’” ❚

Wake Up to Adventure at Starved Rock Lodge

By Lyndsey Nguyen, marketing manager, Starved Rock Lodge

Nestled in the heart of Starved Rock

State Park, Starved Rock Lodge blends timeless charm and modern comfort. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, an adventurous weekend or a romantic getaway, this iconic lodge provides an unforgettable experience.

The Lodge’s accommodations capture the natural beauty of the park while ensuring that every guest enjoys a cozy, relaxing stay. From comfortable rooms with scenic views to rustic cabins for couples or families, Starved Rock Lodge is a great home base for anyone who wants to explore the breathtaking sandstone canyons, seasonal waterfalls and many miles of hiking trails that make this park famous.

Dining at Starved Rock Lodge is truly an experience. The Lodge offers locally inspired dishes in a warm, inviting setting for breakfast, lunch and din-

ner. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, it’s always an elevated experience.

Starved Rock Lodge hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Adventure seekers can join guided hikes or the exhilarating Mega Hikes, where they can discover the park’s hidden canyons and waterfalls – all with knowledgeable guides. Nature lovers are thrilled by the Bald Eagle and Wildlife Trolley Tours.

Food lovers savor the Trolley Trio Progressive Dinner, a unique culinary journey that takes guests from Starved Rock Lodge to August Hill and Camp Aramoni. It’s an evening that blends exceptional cuisine with scenic views.

The Lodge also features live tribute shows and nostalgic experiences like the ’90s Sing-Along Dine & Rewind event, where delicious dining meets unforgettable music.

No matter what’s brought you here, Starved Rock Lodge combines the serenity of nature with exceptional hospitality, so that every moment will refresh, inspire and delight.

To discover for yourself why this retreat is a beloved destination, make a reservation by calling (800) 868-7625 or seeing starvedrocklodge.com.

Fry Baskets Meet Fairway at PrairieFire

By Steven Bonifazi, assistant editor

The Toptracer driving range behind Byron’s PrairieView Golf Club was built to draw golfers year-round. In meeting that goal, PrairieFire Golf & Grill has become a fan favorite for its grub as much as its golfing bays.

PrairieFire outfits its eight state-ofthe-art Toptracer bays with lounge seating, heaters, fire tables and televisions, pairing each bay with an indoor seating area so groups can drift in and out. For dining-only customers, there’s a collection of bar-top seats and tables.

The menu is built around shareables and handhelds. The popular Tavern Mix, for example, is a basket of greatest hits: onion rings, mini tacos, cheese sticks, cheese curds, cheddar potato bites, fried pickles and waffle fries, served with ranch and spicy PrairieFire sauce. The jumbo pretzel, served with beer cheese and Düsseldorf mustard, is equally munchable.

For something a bit heartier, PrairieFire brings the bison, literally, with beer-cheese bison sliders: a stack of seasoned patties with grilled onions and a blanket of beer cheese.

Wings are another house favorite, caddied with sauces and rubs that range from PrairieFire’s signature blend to Nashville hot – plus a Korean barbecue option.

Winter brings its own special addition to the menu: chili inspired by the assistant general manager’s original recipe.

Behind the bar, PrairieFire rotates craft drafts, often locally sourced; standard domestics are limited to cans and bottles. Seasonal cocktails change throughout the year.

What ties it all together is a cozy atmosphere that brings together golfers and beginners alike. Corporate outings, birthday parties, bachelor and bachelor-

ette groups, and league golfers all share the same bays and bar.

“It’s a great gathering spot, whether golf is your thing or not,” says Scott deOliveira, PrairieFire’s general manager.

“Make golf part of your visit and make the most of it.” ❚

PrairieFire Golf & Grill is at 6734 N. German Church Road, in Byron. Reserve a bay at prairiefiregolf.com.

AET: ‘Conscience’

March 12-29. This gripping slice of history is about a lone woman who denounced a bully and stood for what is right, regardless of the cost. Artists’ Ensemble Theater, Cheek Theatre, Rockford University, 5050 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 394-5004, artistsensemble.org.

John Crist Live!

March 21, 7 p.m. This popular American standup comedian and internet personality is known for his videos and sketches that poke fun of Christian culture, millennials and consumerism. Coronado Theatre, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-5222, coronado.rockfordlive.com.

MercyMe: Wonder & Awe Tour

March 21, 7 p.m. This multi-platinum band brings their signature blend of powerful worship and chart-topping hits to the stage. BMO Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford, (815) 968-5222, bmocenter.asmrockford.com.

In the Outdoors: Weekend Warriors

March 21, 2-3 p.m. Learn about archery and tomahawk throwing. All equipment provided. Archers must be at least 5 years old; tomahawk tossers must be at least 7 years old. Atwood Center, 2685 New Milford Road, Rockford, (815) 966-8747, rockfordparkdistrict.org.

74th Annual Antique Show

March 21-22, Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. More than 40 Midwest antique and vintage dealers display items from the 1800s to 1980s, including toys, jewelry, textiles, decorator items, furniture, pottery, glass, dolls and more. Food and dessert proceeds support community projects and charities. Blackhawk Center, 1101 W. Jefferson St., Oregon, Ill., facebook.com/oregonwomansclub.

Entertainment & Events

Beloit International Film Festival

March 25-29, events daily. The annual film festival returns to venues across Beloit, with a diverse showing of short, feature-length, documentary films and much more. Tickets required in advance. Buy online or at Beloit College. Location: Downtown Beloit, various venues. Info/Tickets: BIFF, 635 3rd St., Beloit, (608) 466-9693, beloitfilmfest.org.

The Great War: World War I Days

April 11-12, Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.3 p.m. The sights and sounds of the Great War come to life when more than 200 re-enactors portray civilians and soldiers from across the United States and Europe. See how many soldiers lived and fought as you tour their different encamp -

ments and inspect a 150-yard trench system. Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, (815) 397-9112, midwayvillage.com.

RAM: Art in Bloom

April 16-19, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The exhibit ushers in spring, color and creativity. Experience the galleries transformed by stunning floral arrangements inspired by works of art. Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-2787, rockfordartmuseum.org.

Downtown Beloit Spring Wine Walk

April 18, 2-6 p.m. Sample a wide variety of wines all across downtown Beloit. Registration includes a commemorative glass and tickets for up to 10 venues. VIP ticket holders enjoy free appetizers, swag and raffle entry. The Goose Caboose ferries you to your next destination. Must be 21 or older to register. Info/tickets: Downtown Beloit Association, 557 E. Grand Ave., Beloit, (608) 365-0150, downtownbeloit.com.

‘Clue’

April 20, 7:30 p.m. Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget. Coronado Theatre, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-5222, coronado.rockfordlive.com.

‘Rumors’

April 23-26, Thurs.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m.

Just before his wedding anniversary party, Charlie Brock lies dead. His wife is nowhere to be found. The first guests scramble to get their facts straight before other guests arrive, creating confusion, miscommunication and rumors. Cheek Theatre, Rockford University, 5050 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 226-4100, rockford.edu. ❚