Smart Living Rockford- October 2023

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

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 Writers Katie Gray, Stephanie N. Grimoldby, Janine Pumilia

General Sales Manager Brent Hughes

Sales Manager Brad Hughes

Advertising Sales Representatives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones, Nita Lasky, Pamela Loebel

Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes

Director of Corporate Happiness Hana Hughes

Looking Local

Happy fall, Smart Living readers! I hope you’re enjoying the influx of pumpkinand apple-flavored treats that are everywhere these days. I know I am.

I’m usually not the person who starts their Christmas shopping this early. In fact, I usually don’t start shopping until the week (and sometimes the day) before Christmas. My younger sister once got a VERY generous gift of Beats headphones from me because I bought them in a panic just an hour before our family gathering started. As far as gifts go, that was a huge success, but also, kind of a fail.

Motherhood has changed me in many ways, and one of those ways is getting my act together well in advance of the holiday season. For example, right now, my son has a cute dalmatian costume hanging up in his closet, while I have a makeshift Cruella de Vil outfit pretty much pieced together. My husband doesn’t care to dress up for Halloween, and this year, it’s not a battle I care to pick. As long as he places our heavy pumpkins nicely on the porch, I really don’t mind.

Finding Halloween costumes is one thing, but even more shocking (especially if you knew me in person) is I actually started buying my family Christmas presents! I don’t say this to make you cringe or roll your eyes, though I don’t blame you if you do. I only say this because I found the perfect t-shirt for my dad at Rockford Art Deli and thought, why not just get this now?

Shopping local is something we preach heavily here at Smart Living. Why give your money to big corporations who frankly don’t care about you when you could invest those dollars into your own community? Shopping local is better for your neighbors, the planet, and at the end of the day, yourself. You’ll get a better product and better customer service.

I’m not saying that you, too, need to start your Christmas shopping this early. I just hope that if and when you do begin to look around, you think to look at local businesses first. Have a great week! ❚

Lindsey Lukas Senior Editor

Who Was Paul?

It’sdifficult to overstate the influence of Paul the apostle on Christianity. His letters (epistles), written from about 49 to 67 AD, have instructed Christians worldwide for nearly 2,000 years. Of the 27 New Testament books we use today, 14 are authored by Paul (also called Saul) and/or his companions.

An apostle is “one who is sent on a mission.” Jesus personally chose 12 Jewish men as his disciples (learners) and apostles. They lived alongside him during his three-year ministry.

By contrast, there’s no indication Paul knew Jesus before his crucifixion and resurrection.

Paul was born around 4 AD in Tarsus, a Mediterranean city of high culture some 550 miles from Nazareth. A tentmaker by trade, he spoke Greek and Aramaic; he was a Roman citizen and literate Pharisee, zealous for Jewish law. He worked hard to destroy Christians by means of legalized violence. (Acts 9, 22 and 26).

Act 26: “On one of these journeys I was going to Damascus … I saw a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, blazing around me and my companions. We all fell to the ground, and I heard a voice saying to me in Aramaic, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?’”

The resurrected Christ tells Paul that persecuting Christians is futile, then appoints him to preach salvation not only to Jews, but also to Gentiles (non-Jews). Nothing could be more contrary to Paul’s understanding of faith, but he obeys.

Paul studies under the apostle Barnabas before making arduous missionary journeys, mostly on foot – an estimated total of 10,000 miles. He preaches Christ and, guided by holy spirit, establishes at least 14 churches throughout Asia and Europe. In his letters, he teaches, scolds and encourages the young churches.

Paul suffers greatly on these journeys, but also experiences miracles and an inner peace that only Jesus Christ provides. His death is not mentioned in scripture; tradition holds that he was beheaded in Rome for his faith.

Paul steadfastly carried Christ’s good news to Jew and Gentile alike. Get to know him in the Book of Acts and church epistles. ❚ –

Janine Pumilia

New Options for Mothers in Labor

By Stephanie N. Grimoldby

As mothers become more educated about birthing opportunities, many are opting to try something different than the traditional hospital route. Moms now have a homelike atmosphere in which to deliver their babies, says Jen Geary, a nurse of 19 years and the first outreach and education coordinator of NorthPointe Birth Center, a brand-new freestanding building located on the NorthPointe Health and Wellness Campus in Roscoe, Ill., which is part of Beloit Health System.

The center primarily will be run by midwives, with registered nurses serving as birth assistants. Three birthing suites – each with their own vibe and distinct features – will have a queen-size bed, separate tub to labor in, support bars, birthing balls and more. The other side of the center will include a full-size kitchen,

as well as a common seating area with a fireplace. Four clinic rooms will be available for midwives to see patients for prenatal and postpartum visits, and there also is space for classes.

“We really stress education for our patients,” says Jamie Turner-Rose, a Certified Nurse-Midwife who has worked in labor and delivery for 20 years. “We’ll have prenatal classes in the birth center, and prenatal visits will last 30 minutes to an hour – not the 15-minute visits some of us have experienced in the past.”

In order to utilize the services of NorthPointe Birth Center, pregnant mothers must have a low-risk pregnancy, Geary says. This accounts for roughly 85% of women who deliver in hospitals.

There’s a vast difference in pain management options provided by the birth center versus a hospital.

“We don’t offer IV pain medication; we don’t offer epidural,” Turner-Rose says. “We do offer water birth, freedom of movement, ability to eat through labor – a lot of choices to make people more comfortable. There are people who want a more natural birth experience.”

However, in the middle of labor, if a mother changes her mind about wanting pain medication, “that’s OK,” TurnerRose says. “Then we take a trip over to the hospital to get that pain medication. Our goal will be to make anyone who comes to see us really comfortable.” ❚

A Taste of Fall at Kuipers Family Farm

By Katie Gray

Living in northern Illinois comes with many perks, and one of them is a front-row seat to the gradual, magical transition from summer to fall. For Kim Kuipers, co-owner of Kuipers Family Farm in Maple Park, this time of year also means opening up her family’s 230-acre farm for all to enjoy.

“We connect people to agriculture and each other,” Kuipers says. “It’s all about coming together as a group and enjoying the wonderful agriculture that the Midwest has to offer.”

Each year, the Kuipers team adds to the farm’s offerings to create a memorable experience for everyone. This year, changes include more bar space, an additional fall flower variety and a new way to tour the property.

The over-21 crowd will especially appreciate the newly expanded bar.

“The adult beverages have become very popular,” Kuipers says. “We’ve always had Kuipers Farm fruit wines and hard ciders on the orchard side of the farm, and we are partnering with Obscurity Brewing again for beer. Last year, they produced an apple cider doughnut beer with us, which was crazy popular. People were waiting around the block at the brewery to get it.”

For more all-ages fun, Kuipers Farm is expected to unveil Daisy’s Cow Train, a new way to experience the farm’s pumpkin patch on weekends.

“Tractor-drawn cars painted black and white will take you around,” Kuipers says. “You can fit

two people in each car. It’s a nice, scenic ride.” Each car is designed to accommodate both kids and adults so that the whole family can enjoy the ride together. Speaking of beautiful scenery, the Sunflower Festival is back again this year. The field, which contains more

than 20 sunflower varieties, creates the perfect backdrop for family selfies and Instagram-worthy shots. Kuipers says she’s excited about incorporating more fall flower varieties into the 7-acre garden this season.

“We’ve got a couple of acres of zinnias out there now. So, besides picking sunflowers, you can add those to your bouquet.”

Tickets to enter the festival start around $11 and can be purchased at YouPickFun.com.

This year, guests will also enjoy ex-

panded shopping options on the pumpkin side of the farm.

“We have a lot of yard ornaments and fall decorations in the store,” Kuipers says. “And of course, all the signature products we make here at the farm – like the apple cider doughnuts, our hard ciders, wines, caramel apples and fudge – will also be available in the store.”

All of the usual family-favorite activities are returning this fall, including the Farmview Railway Train, jumping pillow and apple blasters. Also returning this year are the pig races and live musicians on the weekends. Any day of the week, visitors can also ride down the mountain slide, get lost in the corn maze, visit the cute farm animals and climb on the “crazy combine,” just to name a few attractions.

No trip to Kuipers Family Farm

would be complete without a stroll through the Orchard Shop.

“We stock the shop with many locally produced items and gifts,” Kuipers says. “You can even order Thanksgiving pies online and pick them up the day before the holiday.”

The Orchard Shop is also the place to go for fresh-picked apples, and the farm grows more than 40 varieties.

During the fall season, which runs until Oct. 31 this year, Kuipers Family Farm is open daily from 9 or 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The store remains open Thursday through Sunday, with reduced hours from Nov. 2 until the day before Thanksgiving. The best way to get up-to-date information on hours and events is by visiting kuipersfamilyfarm.com.

Kuipers is looking forward to another fall season welcoming families to the farm.

“It’s a great place to come out, stay connected to agriculture and enjoy each other’s company,” she says. ❚

What Should You Ask a Financial Advisor?

Investing can be challenging, so it may be a good idea to work with a financial advisor — but how can you choose the right one?

You’ll need to ask some questions of any advisor you’re considering.

For starters, ask if a prospective financial advisor has experience working with people who are similar to you in terms of income, assets and family situations.

Next, ask how an advisor will communicate with you. Will they have annual or semi-annual reviews?

Can you con-

tact them with questions at any time?

Here’s another question: How does a financial advisor define success? You’ll want to work with someone who views success as the ability to help you meet your important goals, such as a comfortable retirement.

Finally, ask how an advisor is compensated. Different advisors may work on fees, commissions or a combination of both. You should know which method is used, right from the beginning of your relationship.

When you’re trusting someone to help you with your important financial

goals, you want to be completely comfortable with that individual — so ask all the questions you want. ❚

This content was provided by Edward Jones for use by Erna Colborn, your Edward Jones financial advisor at (815) 315-1808.

Erna Colborn

Discuss the Future of Medicine at Our Event

By NWQ Staff

Alex Stagnaro-Green, dean of the University of Illinois College of Medicine-Rockford, provides insight into the future of medicine at Northwest Quarterly’s “Conversations” event on Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 1601 Parkview Ave., Rockford.

Since its start 50 years ago, the College of Medicine has been an economic workhorse for the Rockford region as it attracts new residents, engages physician teachers, and enriches the intellectual and economic prosperity of the community. Doubling down on that commitment, the school is planning a massive new expansion for next year.

The event, entitled “Medicine of the Future: Rockford’s Role in the Health Care of Tomorrow,” features a conversation between Stagnaro-Green and Northwest Quarterly’s editors. Topics include

how physician training is changing, how the school contributes to medical advancements, how the school impacts rural medicine, our local economy, and the delivery of health care, and how the college’s expansion can further enrich our region. During the event, attendees can tour the school and see some of its work up close.

Not only is the University of Illinois College of Medicine-Rockford a proven training ground for the physicians of tomorrow, but it’s also a place where groundbreaking research and new approaches to health care delivery are an everyday reality. Stagnaro-Green will address what new students can expect over

their three years in Rockford, what current research is focused on, and how students infuse new dollars into the Rockford region.

The event is free to attend, but spots are limited. Attendees can pre-register by calling (815) 316-2300 or emailing Lisa Hughes at lisa@hughesmc.com.

Mindful Grief Wanderings and Awareness

Thru Nov. 7, Tues. 10-11:30 a.m. Wander the Gardens and reflect on your grief, honoring loved ones who have died, but are never forgotten. Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, (815) 229-9390, andersongardens.org.

MPAC: Avalon String Quartet

Oct. 13, 7:30 p.m. The classical string quartet interprets a vast repertoire of masterworks and contemporary visions with earnestness, uncompromising artistry and a dash of daring. Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, Starr Center, 415 N. Church St., Rockford, (815) 9649713, mendelssohnpac.org.

CPAC: Patti LaBelle

Oct. 14, 7:30 p.m. She is known for her versatility, including belting out classic rhythm and blues renditions, pop standards and spiritual sonnets. Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-5222, coronadopac.org.

William Shatner with ‘Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan’

Oct. 15, 7:30 p.m. Following a showing of the classic film, Shatner takes to the stage to share fascinating and humorous behind-the-scenes sto -

Entertainment & Events

ries and answer audience questions. VIP tickets are available for a post-show photo with the star. Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-5222, coronadopac.org.

The Fab Four

Oct. 20, 8 p.m. The Emmy Award-winning tribute band is known for their precise attention to detail, with costume changes and note-for-note renditions of many Beatles classics, such as “Can’t Buy Me Love,” “Yesterday,” “A Day in the Life,” “Twist and Shout,” and more. Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-5222, coronadopac.org.

All Hallow’s Eve

Oct. 21, noon to 6 p.m. In-person trick-or-treating outdoors in the Victorian Village is back this year. More than 20 buildings are decked out in spooky decorations. Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, (815) 397-9112, midwayvillage.com.

Halloween on the Prairie

Oct. 22, noon-4 p.m. The family-friendly annual event co-sponsored by the Byron Park District features games, hayrides, crafts, owl and hawk demonstrations, a bounce house and more. Rain

date is Oct. 29. Jarrett Prairie Center, Byron Forest Preserve, 7993 N. River Road, Byron, Ill., (815) 234-8535, byronforestpreserve.com.

Sycamore Pumpkin Festival

Oct. 25-29, see website for times. The annual event brings a decorated pumpkin contest, two carnivals and indoor craft shows, live entertainment, a 10K run family fun activities. The festival concludes with its annual parade on Sunday. Downtown Sycamore, (815) 751-5699, sycamorepumpkinfestival.com. ❚

Sycamore Pumpkin Festival offers a parade, live entertainment, a decorated pumpkin contest, two carnivals and more from Oct. 25-29.