Happenings — Issue No. 9

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CONTENTS PERE MARQUETTE CAMPING PA G E 5 Pere Marquette offers some of the best camping in the area. Enjoy a weekend away with a scenic drive. AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS PA G E 18 The 370 Valley has a plethora of after-school programs. Check out this roundup of area activities. HERMAN’S FARM ORCHARD PA G E 26 It’s time to get your pumpkins! Luckily, Herman’s Farm Orchard is right in your backyard for this Fall tradition. ORCHARD FARM FOOTBALL PA G E 34 The Orchard Farm Football team took to the new field under the Friday Night Lights. NO.9 FREEDOM BOAT CLUB Q&A PA G E 12 Boating is about creating memories. Take a look at the Freedom Boat Club and the benefits of a membership. GARDEN CLUB TIPS PA G E 29 Looking to add some greenery to your home without the hassle of constant maintenance? Array of succulents. Photo: Terri Steffes

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T HHUB E editor’s letter happenings. M A G A Z I N E PART N ERS E d i tor /Pu b l i sher Z a c M e t c a l f Photogr a p hy & D es ign E l l i e M e t c a l f C ont r i b utor s Sus an M a r i e Bl a k e y U r rut i a Sus i e Pundmann T e r r i St e f f e s As we welcome the harvest season, it's the perfect time to embrace all the joys that fall has to offer. The crisp air, vibrant foliage and cozy sweaters signal a time for family fun and cherished traditions. This fall, let's take full advantage of the many wonderful afterschool programs available in our area. From creative arts and crafts to engaging outdoor activities, these programs provide enriching experiences that keep kids active and inspired as the days grow shorter. Don’t forget the excitement of picking out the perfect pumpkin! Whether you’re visiting a local farm or strolling through a neighborhood pumpkin patch, finding that ideal pumpkin is a delightful way to celebrate the season. It’s more than just a festive decoration—it's an opportunity for family bonding and creativity as you carve and decorate together. As we dive into this vibrant season, let’s cherish these moments of togetherness and make the most of the harvest festivities. Here’s to a wonderful fall filled with laughter, learning and seasonal joy. Zac Metcalf Editor/Publisher NINTH ISSUE On the cover: First home football game at the new facility. Photo: Annie Benfield Inquiries: Please submit interest in becoming a partner to: zac@370valley.com or call: 636-312- 0422

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A Weekend Getaway from the 370 Valley As autumn settles in and the leaves start to change, it’s the perfect time to enjoy a scenic fall drive. For a relaxing and enjoyable weekend trip, consider a journey from the 370 Valley that includes ferry rides, beautiful landscapes and camping. This trip offers a chance to unwind and appreciate the season’s beauty while spending quality time with family. SCE N IC PE R E MAR Q U E T T E CAMP & D R IVE

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Starting Your Scenic Drive Begin your trip from the 370 Valley, setting out on a route that showcases the changing colors of fall. As you drive through the countryside, the landscape is painted with a variety of autumn hues. This drive offers several opportunities to stop and take in the views, allowing you to capture the season’s colors and enjoy the serene surroundings. Crossing the Mississippi River by Ferry One of the highlights of the trip is the ferry ride across the Mississippi River. This ride provides a pleasant break from driving and offers a different perspective of the river and its banks. It’s a chance to relax and enjoy the open air as you cross from one side to the other. Upon reaching the opposite shore, you’ll enter Calhoun County, known for its picturesque scenery and quaint atmosphere. This area is a good spot for fresh produce and enjoying the fall landscape. Discovering Calhoun County Calhoun County offers a range of activities suitable for all ages. Spend some time visiting local sites, wandering CLEAR SKIES AND FIRESIDE

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PA G E F O U R| J O U R N EY through small towns or hiking along nature trails. The fall colors add a special touch to these outdoor activities, making it a pleasant time to explore the area. Taking the Brussels Ferry and Exploring the Illinois River Next, head to the Brussels Ferry for a crossing of the Illinois River. This ferry ride provides another opportunity to enjoy the river’s views and the surrounding scenery. It’s a peaceful experience that allows you to appreciate the natural beauty of the region as you continue your journey. Affordable Camping After a day of exploration, it’s time to set up camp. There are several affordable camping options available that provide a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. Choose a campsite that suits your needs and enjoy the simplicity of camping. Settle in for the evening with an open flame grill. As night falls and the stars appear, gather around the campfire for a meal cooked over the flames. Whether you’re grilling burgers or roasting marshmallows, the campfire adds to the camping experience. Breakfast at Pere Marquette Lodge Start your next day with a breakfast at the Pere Marquette Lodge. Located in Pere Marquette State Park, the lodge offers a rustic dining experience that complements your fall outing. The breakfast menu features a range of hearty options, including biscuits, sausage and eggs. “A PEACEFUL EXPERIENCE WITH NATURAL BEAUTY”

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The lodge provides a comfortable setting and views of the surrounding park, making it a pleasant place to enjoy your morning meal. After breakfast, you might take a walk through the park to appreciate the tranquil environment. Returning Home After enjoying breakfast and exploring the park, it’s time to head back to the 370 Valley. The drive home provides an opportunity to reflect on the weekend’s experiences and the time spent with family. You’ll return home on Sunday, ready to start the week with a sense of relaxation and satisfaction. This fall trip offers a mix of scenic drives, ferry rides, camping and rustic dining. It’s a chance to reconnect with nature and spend quality time with loved ones, all while enjoying the autumn season. Pack your bags, gather your family and set out on this enjoyable fall getaway. campsite. R E S E R V A T I O N

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Food / Drink / Retail 1. Bobaque Kiosk 2. Bonnidell’s Ice Cream 3. Casa Mia 4. Domain Street Wine Bar 5. Marsala’s Market 6. Molly O’s Tropical Sno 7. Padavan’s NY 8. Suga Baby Cakes 9. Pauly’s Pizza & Coney Shack 10. Sweet Things Bakery Event Venues The Commons - Event Space The Commons - Courtyard The Bridge Coffee & Fair Trade Market Professional Services The Commons - Shared Office Nieroda Insurance Personal Services The Commons - Fitness Center Offices 45. Arrow Senior Living 46. Sunshine Senior Services 47. Henschel Hat Company 48. DigiCan Printing 49. New Town General Assembly Religious 57. St. Charles Christian Church 58. Soma Church 11. The Bridge | Faith Community Real Estate 50. New Town Sales Center Promenade at New Town The Commons - Commercial RE 14. 15. 16. GlenMark Farms 17. New Town Amphitheater 18. New Town Event Tent 19. New Town Chapel 20. Town Hall 11. 12. Bobaque Restaurant 13. Brewtique 40. 41. Farmers Insurance 42. 43. Shelter Insurance 44. M. Dinzebach Construction 21. 22. American Puppy Grooming 23. Salon Alchemy 24. Salon Turbo 25. Back in Motion Chiropractic 26. Bluebird Family Dental 27. Hair Commander Barber Shop 28. Studio Blend Salon and Spa 29. New Town Dance Academy 30. Demure Portrait 31. The Pampered Pineapple 32. Vet Stop 34. New Town Pickelball 51. 52. 53. NT Rental Properties 23 41 (C) 2023 Steve Cox. All Rights Reserved. 25 42 53 30 24 22 32 43 10 31 27 3 26 11 7 1 4 2 48 47 8 19 58 29 17 9 51 6 220 18 5 12 49 28 13 46 45 44 1440 52 15 50 21 16 57 33 NEW TOWN PICKLEBALL 5001 MERTEN CROSSING BROUGHT TO YOU BY *Listings with logos are part of The HUB powered by The Commons ‘New Town’ and ‘New Town at St. Charles’ are registered trademarks and used with permission and may not be used or reprinted without the express written permission of licensor.

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Happenings Magazine sat down with Dave Coble, Membership Executive with Freedom Boat Club, to talk about the benefits of the program to not only explore waterways within our backyard but all over the world, as well. Thank you for meeting with us today. Could you start by sharing a bit about yourself, your background and how you became involved with Freedom Boat Club? I grew up in Southern Missouri where boating and fishing were a natural part of life, thanks to the abundance of water in the area. Now, I live at the Lake of the Ozarks, a well-known spot for great boating experiences. Over the years, I’ve worn many hats and come to believe that we’re all in sales in some form. With this diverse background, I discovered the Boat Club and have been enjoying it ever since. Both my wife and I are proud members of the Club. For those considering joining Freedom Boat Club, what are some advantages over owning a boat? When you factor in slip fees, insurance, maintenance, and the initial cost of buying a boat, the difference in monthly expenses is significant. Plus, there’s nothing more frustrating than trying to start your boat in March, only to find it needs repairs. Our membership offers freedom and convenience. With locations worldwide, you can enjoy boating in some fantastic destinations. For example, my wife and I are planning a trip to Italy and will use the Boat Club there. Since its start in 1989 in Florida, the Club has grown to over 400 locations globally. The cost savings and international access are major benefits. Additionally, we offer a comprehensive boating safety course and unlimited on-water training, which is Q & A WITH DAVE AT FREEDOM BOAT CLUB

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not always available for new boat owners. Members also enjoy the ease of use—no need to prep or transport a boat; just show up at the dock and enjoy your time on the water. That sounds wonderful. For those in the area, what are the current Club locations? We have clubs at Table Rock Lake near Branson, Lake of the Ozarks and on the Mississippi River in St. Charles. We’re also planning to open a location in the Kansas City area. Each location offers a unique boating experience. For instance, people who grew up in Southern Missouri may not have visited the Lake of the Ozarks often, and vice versa. Our membership allows you to explore both lakes without needing your own boat at each location. The St. Charles location provides a chance to experience boating on the Mississippi River—a concept that was quite foreign to me growing up in Southern Missouri. So, there are multiple local destinations to explore. Absolutely. Different locations offer varied boating experiences. For those hesitant about joining, what common misconceptions or entry barriers should they be aware of? One common concern is that they might not use the membership enough to justify the cost. In reality, people use the boats more often than they expect. Our booking platform is user-friendly—just reserve your date and time online, and the boat will be ready when you arrive. Returning it is just as simple. There’s no hassle with transporting or prepping a personal boat. With just a one-time entrance fee and monthly dues, you’ll find that if you rent a boat three times a year, the membership pays for itself. Plus, it’s about creating memories with family and friends. I took my niece and nephew out a few months ago, and their excitement was unforgettable. The ease of the Club means you can focus on enjoying the experience rather than dealing with logistics. Making memories is key. For those interested in learning more about the Club, are there any upcoming events or opportunities to get more information? We’ll be participating in various local events in and around New Town and Charlestowne. The best way to start is by visiting our website’s landing page, where you can find pricing details and contact information to schedule a dock visit. While many members join over the phone, seeing the boats and operations in person provides a better feel for what we offer. Another benefit of the Club is the camaraderie among members. We host events throughout the year where members can socialize and enjoy themselves. We look forward to seeing you at some

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upcoming events. To wrap up, what do you enjoy doing when you’re not boating? I’m actually a musician. I’ve been in bands throughout my life, starting with drums and later playing guitar and bass in high school. Although I initially pursued a music major in college with dreams of making it big, I realized it wasn’t financially feasible. However, I still play in a rock band about four times a year, which keeps my musical passion alive. Thanks so much, Dave! It’s been great to meet you, and we’ll definitely spread the word about the Club and its benefits. Best of luck with everything at Freedom Boat Club! happenings. Q & A

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General Programs The surrounding areas of St. Charles, specifically the 370 Valley, offer a plethora of after-school programs and activities for students of all levels and even adults, too. This includes the areas of New Town, Frenchtown, Main Street and more. Some of these activities offer creative activities and sports while others include after-school care for children. One of the after-school programs that offers after school care is located right in the heart of New Town. The St. Charles Christian Church offers a program called Spark which was started in 2015 by Susie Pundmann. The Church recognized an unmet need in the neighborhood and already had a beautiful space not being used. This after-school program is very convenient for the residents of New Town, and this allows families to find care year-round with Spark during the school year and Camp Glory during the summer months. AREA AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS Climb So iLL

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cillum consectetur nulla esse eu qui proident occaecat irure fugiat dolor est anim aliqua ipsum cillum nulla deserunt nulla consequat ut nisi aute fugiat pariatur Children can arrive as early as 6am before riding the bus to school and be picked up as late as 6pm in the evening. Children have the time for free play and interacting with friends, navigating relationships and learning how to communicate. This is great for helping children with interpersonal skills, and the staff provides support as friendship coaches. High school and college students work primarily with the children, and Susie works as the principal of Spark. The dinosaurs and dragons are two of the popular toys at Spark, and the dolls represent multiple ethnicities. Children enjoy this opportunity to socialize with friends in a relaxed environment. Sports Programs Here are a few of the area sport offerings! Soccer The St. Charles Soccer Complex is offering soccer training programs for youth. The options for this range from developing motor skills and basic concepts along with focusing on balance and coordination. The more advanced level allows soccer players to master dribbling, passing, receiving, defending and scoring. There is also training available for those aspiring to be the goalkeepers. The age range for this program is from 2 to 12 years old. More information can be found at www.stcharlesparks.com or via social media: @stcparksplaymo. Other sports activities can also be found on the website. Registration for this specific program can be found at www.coresoccertraining.com. Fall Baseball: Portage Des Sioux Portage Des Sioux offers fall baseball for varying levels. There are several leagues including T-Ball Plus, Junior Baseball, Baseball and Adult/Teen Softball. You can learn more and register by visiting https://www.portageball.org. Pickleball Pickleball lessons and leagues are offered at the courts at New Town. There is an upcoming tournament called the 4x4 Royal Rumble on Core Soccer Youth Baseball

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cillum consectetur nulla esse eu qui proident occaecat irure fugiat dolor est anim aliqua ipsum cillum nulla deserunt nulla consequat ut nisi aute fugiat pariatur Saturday, September 28, at 9am. Visit https://www.newtownpickleball.com for more information about pickleball and how to get involved! Boxing Therapy Boxing Therapy is a business located in Frenchtown in the heart of St. Charles that provides weight training, running, punches, heavy bag, defense techniques and jumping rope. There are boxing therapy sessions available for both adults and youth. Find more information and details at www.theboxingtherapygym.com. Boxing Therapy focuses on love, faith, unity and inclusion and has a mission to “Help people to give the best of themselves.” The Boxing Therapy was designed to help individuals boost self-esteem and confidence while managing stress and other emotions. Community Karate Center The Community Karate Center on New Town Boulevard offers karate classes at the Intro, Junior, Intermediate, Advanced and Adult levels. Classes have been taught here since 2018, and students can begin learning at age 5. Visit https://www.communitykaratecenter.com/ckc30da ytrial for more details. World Martial Arts Academy The World Martial Arts Academy offers classes in karate and taekwondo for both children and adults. Kids’ birthday parties are also offered. You can find more information at https://blackbeltstl.com. Climb So iLL Steel Shop The Climb So Ill Steel Shop near main street offers indoor rock climbing, yoga and fitness. There are classes available for each of these areas. The gym offers a brief orientation to climbing, so all levels are welcome. There are areas for both children and adults for climbing. Visit the website at www.stcharlesclimbsoill.com. You can also send a message via the contact form: https://stcharles.climbsoill.com/contact-info/. Boxing Therapy (photo: Annie Benfield) Community Karate

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cillum consectetur nulla esse eu qui proident occaecat irure fugiat dolor est anim aliqua ipsum cillum nulla deserunt nulla consequat ut nisi aute fugiat pariatur Outdoor/ Nature Activities Boschert Greenway Bike Path The Boschert Greenway stretches 5.4 miles between New Town, Fox Hill Park, Little Hills Expressway and Highway 370. Learn more at https://greatriversgreenway.org/blog/greenway/b oschert-greenway/. There is also a Boschert Greenway Storytime and Stroll on October 4th at 9:30am. Some of the amenities include the playground, tables, bike racks and benches. There are many things to do including exploring history, fishing, dining, boating, grilling and playing sports. Lakeside 370 Park Activities Lakeside 370 Park offers equipment rentals which include kayaks, canoes, paddleboats and aqua cycle. There are also regular bikes available to rent such as the trike bike, dual bike and surrey bike. Visit the website at https://www.stpetersmo.net/717/Equipment-Rental for additional details. Creative and Fine Arts Programs Check out some of the creative and fine arts programs that range from music to painting to foreign language learning! SIH Music Studio SIH Music Studio offers music lessons which include piano, vocal technique, ear training, music theory and Ableton music software. Find additional information on the website: https://www.stuartandvesta.com/sihmusicstudio/. Painted Sky Creative Lounge The Painted Sky Creative Lounge offers classes in areas such as painting, crocheting, jewelry making and glasswork mosaic art. The studio is open on Tuesdays from 6pm to 9pm and Thursdays from 5pm to 9pm, along with weekend hours. The Painted Sky Creative Lounge also hosts open mic nights for aspiring artists and musicians. Visit the Facebook page for Painted Sky Creative Lounge or www.paintedskycreativelounge.com. Greenway Lakeside 370

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cillum consectetur nulla esse eu qui proident occaecat irure fugiat dolor est anim aliqua ipsum cillum nulla deserunt nulla consequat ut nisi aute fugiat pariatur The Foundry Art Center The Foundry Art Center is offering an after-school art club for children ages 7 to 11. The art club takes place on Thursdays from 5pm to 6pm. You can sign up here: https://foundryartcentre.org/kidsworkshops. New Town Dance Academy The New Town Dance Academy offers a variety of dance classes including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Acro, Turns and Leaps and Lyrical/Contemporary. Classes are offered for students Monday through Friday during the afternoon and evening following the school day. Visit www.ntdanceacademy.com for more details and registration information. Bilinguaje: Spanish Learning Activities Bilinguaje, Creative and International Language Boutique, is offering an after-school Spanish language learning activity for students of varying grade levels, including elementary, middle and high school. Email bilinguaje@gmail.com to express interest and provide preferred weekday availability, such as preferred days and times. Visit www.bilinguaje.com for more information about Spanish language learning! St. Charles City-County Library The St. Charles City-County Library also offers events and activities both after school and during the morning hours for adults and smaller children. Some of these events include Coffee and Conversation, Fun for Ones and Story Time. You can visit the following link for more information on two local libraries including the Kathryn-Linnemann branch and the Portage Des Sioux branch. Visit https://www.stchlibrary.org for more information. The Bridge Story Time The Bridge coffee shop hosts a story time for children on Fridays at 9:30am. Join for a new story each week, and then children can work on a craft. Visit https://www.thebridgecoffee.org to learn more! Foundry Art Center New Town Dance Academy

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More Activities Orchard FarmActivities The Orchard Farm School Districts offers the following after-school clubs and activities: Art Club, Student Council, Eagle Singers, Band, Cross Country, International Club, Basketball, Cheerleading, Leadership Club, Images Club and Chess Club. Learn more by visiting https://www.ofsd.k12.mo.us/schools/orchard_far m_middle_school/activities___athletics for Middle School activities. Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts Scouting involves experiencing adventure, leadership and personal growth. These are diverse and inclusive organizations. Cub Scout troop information and details can be found at https://stlbsa.org/join-now/. Girl Scout troop information can be viewed at https://www.girlscoutsem.org. That’s a wrap of some of the after-school activities and programs in the 370 Valley area! There are many diverse opportunities to get involved in the community through art, music, sports and more! About the author contributor Susan Marie Blakey Urrutia is the founder of Bilinguaje, Creative and International Language Boutique. Susan Marie earned her Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and Bachelor of Journalism in Strategic Communications from the University of Missouri-Columbia. She studied for a semester at the Universidad de Alicante in Spain and then earned her MBA as a Rotary Scholar at the Universidad de Alcalá in Madrid, Spain. She has experience teaching Spanish as well as tutoring English. She also interprets and translates Spanish and English. Susan enjoys copywriting and creative strategy. Bilinguaje enjoys helping people reach goals with learning the Spanish language and helping businesses with creative communications! happenings. A C T I V I T I E S Orchard Farm FAA Club

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ash1818.org | 636-946-6127 | admissions@ash1818.org 619 N. Second St. | St. Charles, MO 63301 Catholic| Independent | PreK3 - 8 Open to all Faiths NewYear — NewTechnology! Promethean Boardsin all classroomsfor interactive instruction and learning! To discover more,click herefor upcoming events and to schedule a tour. DiscoverMore!

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Herman’s Farm Orchard in Boschertown Experience the charm of fall at Herman’s Farm on North 94 in Boschertown, where you can pick out your very own pumpkin for the season. The farm offers a delightful array of activities perfect for the whole family. Kids will love the tractor ride that takes them through the farm, adding an extra touch of adventure to their pumpkin hunt. The play fort provides a fun and safe space for children to climb, explore and let their imaginations run wild. For an extra dose of excitement, the John Deere big wheels let kids feel like real farmers as they zoom around. With its welcoming atmosphere and variety of activities, Herman’s Farm is the ideal destination for creating cherished fall memories with your family. www.hermansfarm.weebly.com HAPPENINGS. LOCAL SPOT.

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C O O KI N G C LASSES| C AT ERI N G | M EAL P LA N S 6 3 6 - 3 12-0909

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The Ultimate Guide to Growing Easy Succulents Are you looking to add some greenery to your home without the hassle of constant maintenance? Look no further than succulents! These easy-to-grow plants are not only visually appealing but also require minimal care, making them the perfect choice for busy individuals or those with a less-than-green thumb. In this ultimate guide, we will provide you with valuable tips and tricks for successful succulent cultivation. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this guide has got you covered. From choosing the right succulent varieties to understanding their unique watering and lighting needs, we will walk you through every step of the process. You will learn about the essential tools and materials you'll need, as well as how to propagate succulents to create an impressive collection. Understanding the needs of succulents Succulents are a diverse group of plants that have evolved to thrive in harsh, arid environments. These unique plants have adapted to store water in their fleshy leaves, stems, or roots, allowing them to survive extended periods of drought. Understanding the specific needs of succulents is crucial for their successful cultivation. One of the primary requirements for succulents is well-draining soil. These plants are susceptible to root rot, which can occur when the soil remains too moist for an extended period. Overwatering is a common problem for new succulent growers, so it's essential to strike a balance between providing enough moisture and allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In addition to soil drainage, succulents also have THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO GROWING EASY SUCCULENTS GARDEN CLUB TIPS

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specific light requirements. Most species thrive in bright, direct sunlight, with some tolerating partial shade. Proper lighting is essential for promoting healthy growth and vibrant coloration in succulents. Failure to provide adequate light can result in etiolation, where the plant becomes stretched and leggy as it searches for more light. Choosing the right succulent species With thousands of succulent varieties available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right ones for your home or garden. When selecting succulents, it's important to consider factors such as their mature size, growth habits, and environmental preferences. For indoor cultivation, compact, rosette-forming succulents like Echeveria, Sempervivum, and Aeonium are excellent choices. These species tend to have a more manageable size and can thrive in the relatively limited space of a container. Larger, trailing succulents like Senecio and Burro's Tail can also make beautiful additions to hanging baskets or shelves. If you have an outdoor space, such as a garden or patio, you can explore a wider range of succulent varieties. Sedum, Opuntia, and Agave are just a few examples of hardy, droughttolerant succulents that can withstand the elements. When choosing outdoor succulents, be mindful of their cold hardiness and select species that can survive the climate in your region. Selecting the ideal pot and soilfor your succulents The right container and soil mix are essential for the long-term health and growth of your succulents. Choosing the appropriate pot size is crucial, as succulents can become root-bound if confined in a container that is too small. As a general rule, the pot should be only slightly larger than the plant's root system, allowing for a small PA G E 32 | H O M E Photos and article by Terri Stef es

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amount of room for growth. When it comes to the pot material, terracotta or ceramic containers are excellent choices for succulents. These materials are porous, allowing excess moisture to evaporate and preventing waterlogging. Plastic or metal pots can also work, but they may not provide the same level of drainage and air circulation as terracotta or ceramic. The soil mix is another critical factor in successful succulent cultivation. Succulents thrive in well-draining, gritty soil that mimics their natural habitat. A combination of potting soil, sand, and perlite or pumice is an excellent choice, as it provides the necessary drainage and aeration for these plants. Avoid using standard potting soil, as it can hold too much moisture and lead to root rot. Proper watering and drainage techniques Proper watering is one of the most important aspects of caring for succulents. Overwatering is a common problem that can lead to a range of issues, from leaf discoloration to root rot. Underwatering, on the other hand, can cause the plant to become dehydrated and stunted. To strike the right balance, it's essential to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. The frequency of watering will depend on factors such as the plant's species, the size of the pot, and the environmental conditions. As a general guideline, water succulents when the soil is completely dry to the touch, which can be every one to two weeks during the growing season and even less during the winter months. Proper drainage is also crucial for the health of your succulents. Ensure that the pot you choose has adequate drainage holes at the bottom, allowing excess water to escape. You can also add a layer of gravel or small stones at the bottom of the pot to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging. Providing adequate light and temperature for succulents Succulents are sun-loving plants that require ample bright, direct light to thrive. Most species need a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day, with some requiring even more. If you're growing succulents indoors, place them in a south-facing window or invest in a grow light to ensure they receive the necessary light exposure. Temperature is another critical factor for successful succulent cultivation. Succulents prefer warm, dry conditions, with ideal temperatures ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 29 degrees Celsius) during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night. Avoid exposing your succulents to extreme temperatures, as they can be sensitive to both cold and heat. During the winter months, when daylight hours are shorter, you may need to adjust your watering and lighting practices. Reduce watering frequency and move your succulents to a brighter location to ensure they receive sufficient light. Some species may even go dormant during the winter, requiring less water and attention until the growing season resumes. Propagationmethods for easy succulent growth One of the joys of growing succulents is the ability to propagate them and create new plants. Succulents are incredibly versatile and can be propagated through a variety of methods, including leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, and offsets (also known as "pups").

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Leaf propagation is a popular and straightforward technique. Simply remove a healthy leaf from the parent plant, allow the cut end to callus over for a few days, and then place the leaf on well-draining soil. With proper care and patience, the leaf will eventually produce roots and a new rosette. Stem cuttings are another effective propagation method. Choose a healthy, mature stem, cut it just below a leaf node, and allow the cut end to dry and callus over. Once the callus has formed, plant the cutting in well-draining soil and water sparingly. In a few weeks, you should see new growth emerging from the base of the cutting. Offsets, or pups, are small plantlets that form at the base of the parent plant. These can be gently removed and repotted to create new, individual succulents. Offsets are a great way to expand your succulent collection and share your plants with friends and family. Preventing common succulent pests and diseases While succulents are generally lowmaintenance plants, they can still be susceptible to a few common pests and diseases. Being proactive in identifying and addressing these issues can help keep your succulents healthy and thriving. One of the most prevalent pests that can affect succulents is the mealybug. These small, white, cotton-like insects can feed on the sap of succulents, causing discoloration, stunted growth, and even death if left unchecked. To combat mealybugs, you can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to physically remove the pests or apply a neem oil-based insecticidal spray. Another common problem is powdery mildew, a fungal disease that can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of succulents. Powdery mildew thrives in humid environments, so ensuring proper air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent its occurrence. If the disease does appear, you can use a fungicide specifically formulated for succulents to treat the affected plants. Overwatering is also a significant risk factor for succulents, as it can lead to root rot, a potentially deadly condition. To prevent root rot, be mindful of your watering schedule and ensure that the soil dries out completely between waterings. If you suspect root rot, act quickly by removing the plant from its pot, inspecting the roots, and trimming away any damaged or mushy parts before replanting in fresh, well-draining soil. Tips formaintaining healthy and thriving succulents Maintaining the health and vitality of your succulents requires a consistent and attentive approach. Here are some additional tips to help you keep your plants thriving: Fertilize sparingly: Succulents have low nutrient requirements and can be easily damaged by over-fertilization. Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer during the growing season, and avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the

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plants are dormant. Prune and trim: Regular pruning and trimming can help keep your succulents looking neat and tidy. Remove any dead, damaged, or discolored leaves or stems to maintain the plant's aesthetic and encourage new growth. Rotate and rearrange: To ensure even growth and prevent etiolation, regularly rotate your succulents to expose all sides to the light. You can also rearrange the placement of your plants to maximize their exposure to sunlight. Monitor for signs of stress: Be vigilant for any changes in your succulents' appearance, such as wilting, discoloration, or unusual growth patterns. These can be signs of underlying issues, such as improper watering, pests, or disease, which you can address before the problem escalates. By following these tips and the guidance provided throughout this article, you'll be well on your way to cultivating a thriving collection of easy-to-grow succulents that will bring beauty and low-maintenance joy to your home or garden. Final thoughts Succulents are truly remarkable plants that offer a wealth of benefits for both novice and experienced gardeners. With their diverse array of shapes, sizes, and colors, succulents can be used to create stunning, low-maintenance displays that add a touch of natural beauty to any space. By understanding the unique needs of succulents, choosing the right species for your environment, and implementing proper care techniques, you can enjoy the satisfaction of growing these resilient plants with ease. Whether you're starting your first succulent collection or expanding an existing one, this ultimate guide has provided you with the essential knowledge and tools to ensure your succulents thrive. Remember, the key to successful succulent cultivation lies in patience, observation, and a willingness to learn. With time and practice, you'll develop a green thumb and the confidence to create your own stunning succulent oasis. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of easy-to-grow succulents and watch your home transform into a lush, low-maintenance paradise. happenings. H O M E

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FRI D AY N I G H T L I G H TS Photos by Annie Benfield

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AT T H E N EW FA C I L I TY

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energy surge are something to behold! Forty eight camp days in the season. 10 hours a day. 70 children. 33,600 hours of engagement, fun, community building and memory making for the Camp Glory family. Susie Pundmann and her hard working team had a tremendous season. They look forward to doing it all again in 2025! Learn more about Camp Glory here: www.campglorynt.com Enrollment kicks off in February 2025. You’ll want to get your reservations in early, as they will fill up quickly. Follow their FB page or website for details. Neighbors in New Town are familiar with the flocks of spirited, blue shirted Camp Glory children flurrying around the community every summer. The ten weeks between Labor Day and the start of school are a magical time for the campers. Camp Glory campers stay off of devices, get outside, create, problem solve, make friends, serve their neighbors, spread some love, nurture things, resolve conflicts, become more independent, run, sing, swim, fish, dance, imagine and grow. Their giggles, squeals, silliness, and HIGHLIGHT HAPPENINGS MAGAZINE

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KI D ’S C O R N ER 370 VALLEY EVENT FEEDS (click on each image to access)