Happenings — Issue No. 8

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CONTENTS BRANSON ON A BUDGET PA G E 4 Check out our itemized guide for a five night, six day family trip to Branson— all while keeping the budget low. BACK TO SCHOOL PREP PA G E 17 It’s that time of year. Make sure your kids are ready with these essential back to school tips. RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT PA G E 20 Learning a second language can be tough. Bilinguaje presents a format to help you every step of the way. SUNFLOWER CARE TIPS PA G E 31 Sunflowers are beautiful additions to any garden. Take these essential steps to nurture your fields. NO.7 COURSE COFFEE Q&A PA G E 1 1 Coffee is a experience. Course Coffee in Frenchtown shares their journey to bring folks a quality roast. MISSOURI RIVER RACE PA G E 25 St Charles has historic importance along the Missouri River. It is also the final destination for the annual MR340. PA G E 2 | C O N T E N TS Summer Slip ‘N Slide — Photo by: Annie Benfield

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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 E d i tor i a l O f f ice 3 324 Rue Roy a l e St e . 206 St . C ha r l e s , M O 6 3 301 6 3 6 - 3 12-0422 As we enter the final stretch of summer, it is a chance to enjoy every bit of daylight that this time of year offers. Whether it be swimming until sunset at the neighborhood pool or getting that last bit of summer vacation in on the lake, it is a chance to add to family time and memories before the school season grind. In this issue, we take a look at a summer vacation trip to Branson, highlighting entertainment, recreation and attractions in the area—all while making a minimal dent in the family budget. On the business side, we had the pleasure of sitting down with a local coffee shop and roastery in the area—taking a deep dive into the social and intrapersonal benefits of exploring coffee through the regions of origin of the beans, the local roasting process and the final cup. And, as we head into the new school year, take a look at some quick back to school tips to make sure your kids are up and at ‘em for the first day back to the classrooms. Zac Metcalf Editor/Publisher EIGHTH ISSUE On the cover: Fourth of July Fun! Inquiries: Please submit interest in becoming a partner to: zac@370valley.com or call: 636-312- 0422 PA G E 3 | E D I T O R’S L E T T ER

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Summer and road trips go together like bread and butter. As the price of travel continues to rise, even the historically reliable way of traveling by car on a budget has started to hit our pocketbooks. We set out to take a family of five on a six day vacation to Branson via the open road. Our goal was to keep our entire budget within $1,000. Check out our itemized guide on making that happen—all while not sacrificing on lack of activities, attractions and adventures. B RA N S O N O N A B U D G E T

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Transportation - $10 When you see that modest $10 line item, you might doubt its truth. However, this is the result of a cleverly orchestrated adventure! We embarked on our journey from St. Louis to Branson in our trusty electric vehicle, which meant a thrilling game of route-planning and charging pit stops. We mapped our course with precision, hitting charging stations like milestones on a treasure map. Our first stop was in Sullivan, Mo., where a supercharging station awaited us. Thanks to a three-year free charging deal from our EV manufacturer, we plugged in and recharged in less than half an hour each time. These breaks doubled as opportunities to stretch our legs and grab a bite. Our second charging stop was in Springfield, Mo., where we encountered numerous quick-charging stations costing around $5 for a 20-minute burst of energy. Even better, our resort in Branson offered complimentary charging, ensuring we were always ready for spontaneous explorations. Overall, the extra hour of charging time added a touch of adventure to our three-and-ahalf-hour drive each way. Lodging - $320 Lodging can be a wild card, but with a dash of savvy and a sprinkle of patience, SOMETHING FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY PA G E 5 | TRAVE L

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PA G E F O U R| J O U R N EY we turned it into a gem of an experience. We snagged a fantastic deal at the Club Wyndham Meadows by agreeing to a brief, 90-minute timeshare presentation. Our unit, featuring a full kitchen and ample space for our crew, was like a cozy hideaway with a view of the resort's main pool. This prime location meant our kids could make a splash whenever they pleased while we relaxed nearby. The thrill of making a great deal and having a prime poolside spot made this lodging a real win. Food - $270 Food expenses can skyrocket, but we turned the tables by stocking up at Costco before our trip. With a cooler packed with essentials, we were ready to whip up breakfasts and lunches in our condo’s kitchen. We still treated ourselves to three memorable dining experiences: a fun family pizza night, a pasta feast on the vibrant strip, and a sunset dinner at the spectacular Top of The Rock. This blend of homemade and dining-out kept our taste buds satisfied without blowing the budget. Entertainment - $70 A trip to Branson would be incomplete without diving into its vibrant entertainment scene. We tapped into the local discount scene and scored a family deal at the resort’s ticket outlet. We chose a captivating daytime show with the Shanghai Acrobats, a spectacle of incredible feats and daring acts that entertained us all for two exhilarating hours. It was a budget-friendly way to experience the magic Branson is known for. “AN ENTERTAINMENT AND RECREATION DESTINATION!”

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Recreation & Attractions - $400 Our adventure really kicked into high gear with a day at Table Rock Lake, a pristine paradise perfect for boating, tubing, and swimming. As Freedom Boat Club members, we enjoyed a full day on the water with a pontoon rental from Indian Point Marina. Tubing rentals were available nearby for just $50 for the day. Despite the summer crowds, we found serene coves where our kids could frolic and swim in the crystal-clear water. Another must-see was “Top of The Rock,” an enchanting nature trail at the summit overlooking Table Rock Lake. This 2.5-mile golf cart trail led us through stunning Karst landscapes, past waterfalls and even into a cave. We wrapped up our visit with a breathtaking sunset outside the museum that showcases Native American artifacts and the region’s natural history. On our return leg, we couldn’t miss the “Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium” in Springfield, Mo. Renowned as the best aquarium in the U.S., it boasts mind-blowing exhibits from the Arctic to the Amazon. This immersive experience could easily consume an entire day. No epic road trip is complete without a pit stop at Buc-ee’s. The Springfield location provided the perfect final stop before we headed back to St. Charles, fueling up both our vehicle and our spirits. Total Trip Cost (5 nights, 6 days) - $1,070 A total of $1,070 for this whirlwind adventure—an incredible deal for a journey packed with excitement, exploration, and unforgettable memories! happenings. T R A V E L

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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 Brandon at Course Coffee Roasters to learn about this unique coffee shop—and their dedication to the craft—in the heart of Frenchtown. Happenings: Thank you for taking the time to visit today. Tell me about your background and how you and your wife got into the coffee business. Brandon: Absolutely. Part of our coffee journey extends from where we met. I was living in Harrisburg, Pa., and Sarah was finishing school in the area. She was working at a coffee shop that I would frequent in the afternoons, and that is how we got to know each other—so the idea of coffee was always prevalent from the first day we met. We had always talked about wanting to open our own coffee shop. We ended up visiting the St. Charles area and Frenchtown during the Christmas season for a little rest, and we really enjoyed the area. At the time, we were thinking of making a move anyways and St. Charles seemed like the best fit. I had also been roasting as a hobby for myself and friends, so between this location and being ready to start a business, we took the next steps to set up shop. We started out selling our coffee at the local farmers market for four years before we ended up meeting Keith Lutz. Keith is the owner of the building, and after some time renovating the space through 2020, we officially opened our physical location. Happenings: That sounds great. Speaking of the idea of coffee, what initially piqued your interest in getting more involved in the trade and wanting to do your own roasting? Brandon: I think the experimentation side of it is a big part of what draws me to roasting. As Sarah and I got more involved in roasting and sourcing beans, we also Q & A WITH BRANDON AT COURSE COFFEE PA G E 11 | B U SI N ESS F EAT U RE

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got a chance to see how much the process involves making relations at the point before the final product is served. It is very much a relational transaction, where farmers go through their process to grow and pick the beans that then go through an extensive journey before coming here. We are then an extension and a steward of that process to the point of being able to create the end product taste. We have had a chance to meet some of the farmers from Costa Rica at an event in Chicago, so to be able to introduce ourselves and put a face to where it all starts has been rewarding. It really is excellent care, human relations and attention from start to finish for the entire process. Happenings: The social aspect of coffee, on both the sourcing side and when it comes to an end product, is an important part of the process and experience. That kind of leads me to my next question. You have a very unique and inviting space here at the shop—with it being set up in an older french-style home. Tell me a bit about how this came to fruition and the vision behind making it such a welcoming and social space for the community to interact. Brandon: The atmosphere is important to us. Coffee, in its own way, puts the consumer on a journey just off the taste. When you sit down and have a cup of coffee with your feet on the ground, the taste alone can transport you to the region of origin. So, the name “Course Coffee” has the idea of going on an expedition—or setting a course to experience something new. It also speaks to the community here along the river that has a strong history of being a launching point for expeditions. People are on the course of life—all within the same community—and we wanted to create a space where people can interact and share that journey. Happenings: And for someone who may be just beginning to explore the world of different varieties of coffee, what do you recommend as a good first step on their journey? Brandon: One thing that we have tried to do well is bring in a broad range of coffees—from a roast that is very mild or easy-drinking to something that is more fruitful, tart or sweet and sugary. We also want to provide the background of each coffee and educate people on the farming origins of the various beans. Just like people come from all walks of life, people gravitate towards different flavor profiles, as well. We want people to come in and have that immersive experience where we can encourage them along their journey. Happenings: And on the educational side, do you offer any kind of events or tastings throughout the year? Brandon: Absolutely. One that is upcoming is a tasting around a specific

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location and origin where the coffee beans are grown. The local farmers—a husband and wife from Nicaragua—will be at the event. It will be a cupping and present information on that region's taste. So, we are trying to put together more events like that, where folks can see and experience the process before the end result that plays such a vital role in the quality and final taste. Happenings: That’s wonderful. And now that you all are well-established, what are your plans for the future—both for expanding the flavor offerings and expanding your business? Brandon: I would like to explore more of the Asia-Pacific region. We have had the opportunity to bring in a few of them— although they don’t come available very often. I am really excited about some coffee out of Thailand, and we have started the conversations with an importer to see if we can make that happen. The single farm coffee from Nicaragua is also another one that is going to be exciting to experience. As far as expansion is concerned, that is something we see in the future. Our main goal is to keep coffee and community at the heart of what we do, so anything moving forward will have that ethos. There is also a good opportunity on the cold brew side with our blend canned at a local brewery for distribution and expand the roasting side or our business. Happenings: Those are all exciting developments. This brings me to my final question. What do you enjoy most about living in this area and what do you like to do in your down time? Brandon: We really enjoy food and new music. We always try to go to new shows as they come up, along with supporting the area businesses. Frenchtown is a great community, and the people here are so friendly and willing to help each other out to help this area to continue to grow. Happenings: It has been great getting to know you, and I wish you all the best as your business continues to grow. I look forward to continuing my flavor journey with your different offerings, as well.

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As the back-to-school season approaches, getting your child ready can make a big difference in how smoothly they transition into the new year. Here are five practical tips to help parents prepare their kids for a successful start: 1. Organize Supplies Early: Make a checklist of all necessary school supplies and shop for them in advance. This avoids the last-minute rush and ensures you have everything your child needs. Involve your child in choosing their supplies to boost their excitement and preparedness. 2. Establish a Routine: Gradually adjust your child’s sleep schedule to match the school hours, starting a week or two before school begins. Create a consistent morning routine that includes a healthy breakfast and time to get ready, helping your child start their day on the right foot. BACK TO SCHOOL PREPARATION PA G E 1 7 | T I PS

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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 3. Set Up a Study Space: Designate a quiet, organized area in your home for homework. Equip it with essential supplies like pencils and paper, and ensure it’s well-lit. A dedicated study space helps your child focus and fosters good study habits. 4. Review School Policies and Schedules: Check the school’s policies, calendar and any new procedures. Being aware of changes such as early dismissals or special events helps in planning and prevents surprises. 5. Encourage Positive Attitudes: Discuss the upcoming school year with enthusiasm, focusing on the exciting opportunities and acknowledging any concerns your child might have. A positive outlook can boost their confidence and eagerness for the new challenges ahead. These steps will help make the transition back to school smoother and set your child up for a successful year! OrchardFarm 2 0 2 5 C a l e n d a r

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RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT: BILINGUAJE LANGUAGE BOTIQUE actual name. While studying a Masters in Business program (MBA) at the University of Alcala in Spain, I created a thesis project regarding Spanish language. At the time, I considered some names using words related to learning Spanish. However, several years later I had this moment of creating a word that would combine two words, in other words creating a portmanteau word. I like to say that Bilingue (Bilingual) plus Lenguaje (Language) equals Bilinguaje. I was also quite a fan of math during my schooling days so the equation seems to fit quite well. While English Language and Math were my highest ACT scores obtained, I also had a love for my Spanish and art classes during high school and also college. The blending of work with Spanish and communications is the overarching theme of Bilinguaje, Creative & International Language Boutique. Bilinguaje, Creative & International Language Boutique, offers Spanish language learning, PA G E 20 | RESI D E N T SP O T L I G H T ¡Bienvenido Bilinguaje! ¡Bienvenido a New Town (Pueblo Nuevo)! Written by: Susan Marie Blakey Urrutia Hola, I would love to share the story of Bilinguaje and how this creative idea was born. My name is Susan Marie, and I moved to the area of New Town during 2020. I have found New Town to be an amazingly unique and exciting community. I actually first created Bilinguaje several years ago, but I have been more inspired to truly launch while living in the New Town community. I have enjoyed seeing and visiting the small businesses within our town and appreciate the ease and convenience of not needing to travel too far from home due to this unique development. So, I have thought…why not bring Spanish language learning and tutoring to New Town! Also, why not offer businesses help with communications and copywriting in English and Spanish, including interpretation and translation?! And, why not be available to help anyone close to the area who is looking to practice English language skills and grammar?! The initial idea of Bilinguaje came before the

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Spanish tutoring, Spanish translation and Spanish interpretation, along with creative strategy and communications for businesses and social enterprises. Bilinguaje’s mission is to spread the love of language learning to others and to help bridge cultures and communication, leaving an open-minded footprint on society. Bilinguaje strives to help businesses effectively communicate with Spanish speaking clients in their native language for business success. Bilinguaje’s vision is to create a tremendous impact with building community and connections through language learning, bilingual communications, creativity, and international business insights. Visit the website at www.bilinguaje.com and click here to schedule a meeting. Spanish language learning Embark on a linguistic journey with our Spanish language learning programs, fostering cultural connections and communication proficiency. Spanish tutoring Unlock the richness of the Spanish language with personalized and effective tutoring tailored to your learning goals. Spanish translation Elevate communication and foster global connections with our precise and reliable Spanish translation services, ensuring your message resonates authentically across language boundaries. Spanish interpretation Experience seamless communication across

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languages with our professional Spanish interpretation services, ensuring accurate and fluent exchanges in any setting. Creative strategy We blend artistry with purpose to craft compelling narratives that resonate in today's dynamic landscape. Communications Navigate the realm of effective communication with our tailored solutions, ensuring clarity, connectivity, and impactful messaging in every interaction. More on Language Learning Now let’s talk a little about language learning! Learning a language can be fun and rewarding! You are able to use a different portion of your brain and truly challenge your mind. This can be easy to get started. To spark your interest, you can sign up to receive a word of the week to practice and commit to memory. You can focus on learning some vocabulary words and also some verbs. Click here to schedule a meeting and request the word of the week. Learning a language can take some time, but you can schedule frequent lessons so that your progress can be made with the language acquisition. Learning a new language opens doors to learning about other cultures, travel and working on volunteer efforts for mission’s work. You can truly connect with people on a much deeper level when you speak the local language and understand the specific cultural aspects of the country. Learning Spanish can help you travel throughout a multitude of countries. This can inspire many new adventures and spiritual development. Bilinguaje is here to help you. Complete the contact form or schedule a meeting today!

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In addition to pursuing endeavors with Bilinguaje, I have also focused on writing and publishing my first book called Spanish Roots y Aventuras en España (Cuento Cortito). I am looking forward to sharing this soon! Outside of my career work with Spanish and communications, I enjoy exploring the area of New Town and meeting new people. The first people I really met in New Town were at the Amphitheater and also at the local dining establishments. When I first came to New Town, I would reminisce of time I spent in Europe in a small town with small shops and local restaurants. This area also reminded me of an area called Celebration in Orlando where I lived for a short while. During free time, I enjoy things such as pickleball, tennis, swimming, biking, yoga, soccer, softball, basketball, dancing, fine arts and singing. I have always appreciated the concerts and events that are held in the area and the unique ability that we have to meet neighbors from other blocks, streets and districts. Creative & InternationalLanguage Boutique Bilinguaje

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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 Spacesremain for 2024-2025. Click here to schedule a tourwith Alexandra Sanchez Little, Director of Admissions, and discover more! DiscoverMore!

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Kansas City, Mo. The MR340—the World’s longest non- stop river race—officially kicked off on July 23. Started in 2004 during a time when social media consisted of niche forums attached to websites, the race still maintains its grassroots origins and, in some ways, mirrors the small-town Americana path that it follows—with an appreciation for the river and the many river towns that it passes through. Paddlers—either solo or part of a multi- person team—begin at Kaw Point with the Kansas City Skyline as a backdrop and make their way 340 miles downstream to the finish line in St. Charles, Mo. Each boat is allowed to have one ground crew that tracks ahead of them to each checkpoint to provide food, hydration and medical assistance, if needed. Beyond the physicality of paddling 340 25 HAPPENINGS. ADVENTURE.

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safety whistle and staying ahead of the 88- hour cutoff limit — the latter being the reason the race has adopted a motorized “Reaper Boat” that tails the back of the pack and serves as a warning that you might be close to not making the cutoff time. Due to inclement weather in 2023, the race was called off after the first day. However, the weather for the 2024 edition was nearperfect, with clear skies and a fast current due to higher water levels. Quickly becoming a world-renowned event, the MR340 continues to highlight the beauty and importance of the Missouri River—both for recreational and commercial interests. For more information on the race, visit: https://mr340.org/ Check out the photos on the subsequent pages of New Town residents Kevin Luetkemeyer and Mitch Huntly completing the 2024 race under the solo kayaks division miles non-stop, the paddlers also must contend with the mid-summer heat that can reach temperatures well above 100 Degrees Fahrenheit out on the open water. Other obstacles include the variable conditions of the Missouri River, including submerged wing dikes, barges in tow and early morning fog. For this reason, the Missouri River Relief—the group that organizes the race—puts safety at the forefront of every pre-race communication, including a mandatory safety meeting the night before the start. This includes being keenly aware of the commercial barge traffic that continues during the event. Both race organizers and towboat operators maintain open communication, not interrupting the flow of commercial traffic and allowing safe passage for paddlers. In addition to a mandatory safety meeting, other rules include outfitting your boat with the proper set of navigation lights for paddling through the night, proper PFDs, a HAPPENINGS. ADVENTURE. 26

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Photos by Loni Leutkemeyer New Town Residents Mitch Huntley & Kevin Luetkemeyer

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Finish line vibes!

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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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Revitalize Your Garden: Essential Mid-Summer Care, Tips, and Maintenance Welcome to the ultimate guide on mastering the art of sunflower gardening. In this article, we will unveil top tips and techniques for caring and nurturing your blooming gardens. Whether you are a home gardener or a professional farmer, understanding the intricacies of sunflower seed harvesting is essential to your crop yield. With our expert advice, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to optimize your sunflower gardens and achieve a bountiful harvest. So grab your gardening gloves and let's dive into the world of sunflower seed gardening - it's time to reap the rewards of your blooming fields. Sunflower care andmaintenance throughout the growing season: Sunflowers are not only beautiful additions to any garden, but they also offer a bountiful harvest of delicious seeds. Proper care and maintenance throughout the growing season are crucial to ensuring a successful sunflower seed harvest. Let's dive into the essential steps to nurture your sunflower fields. Consistent and adequate watering is crucial for the healthy growth of sunflowers. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. During the peak growing season, sunflowers may require 1 to 2 inches of water per week. Avoid letting the soil dry out, as this can stress the plants and impact seed production. As your sunflowers begin to grow, be vigilant in monitoring for pests and diseases. Common issues include aphids, mildew, and fungal infections. Regularly inspect your plants and take proactive measures to address any problems, such as applying organic pest control solutions or removing affected leaves. Maintaining a healthy crop is essential for a bountiful harvest. Finally, consider providing support for your sunflowers as they grow taller. Staking or caging the plants can help prevent them from toppling CARING FOR YOUR BLOOMING SUNFLOWER GARDEN GARDEN CLUB TIPS

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over in strong winds or heavy rains. This not only protects the plants but also ensures that the sunflower heads remain upright, making the harvesting process easier and more efficient. By following these essential steps for sunflower care and maintenance, you'll be well on your way to a successful and rewarding sunflower seed harvest. Remember, each sunflower variety has its own unique needs, so be prepared to adjust your approach as necessary to ensure the best possible results. Drying and storing sunflower seeds for longtermuse: Once your sunflowers have reached maturity and the heads have begun to droop, it's time to focus on the crucial process of drying and storing your sunflower seeds. Proper handling and storage are essential to preserving the quality, flavor, and longevity of your precious harvest. Begin by carefully removing the sunflower heads from the plants, leaving a few inches of stem attached. This stem will help protect the seeds during the drying process. Gently brush off any loose seeds or debris, taking care not to damage the seed heads. Next, it's time to dry the sunflower heads. This can be done in a variety of ways, depending on your available resources and the scale of your harvest. One popular method is to hang the sunflower heads upside down in a wellventilated, dry area, such as a barn, shed, or even a sunny porch. Ensure that the heads are not touching each other, as this can promote mold growth. Alternatively, you can lay the sunflower heads out on a flat surface, such as a screen or a tarp, in a single layer. Rotate the heads periodically to ensure even drying. The drying process may take several weeks, depending on the climate and humidity levels in your area. Keep a close eye on the heads, and be prepared to adjust the drying conditions as needed. PA G E 32 | H O M E Photos and article by Terri Stef es

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Once the sunflower heads are completely dry, it's time to remove the seeds. Gently rub or brush the heads to release the seeds, taking care not to crush or damage them. Collect the seeds in a clean, dry container, such as a paper bag or a glass jar. To ensure the long-term storage of your sunflower seeds, it's essential to remove any remaining moisture. Spread the seeds out on a baking sheet or paper towels and place them in a warm, dry area with good air circulation. Allow the seeds to air-dry for an additional 24 to 48 hours, checking periodically for any signs of moisture. When the seeds are fully dried, it's time to store them. Choose an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a resealable plastic bag, and store the seeds in a cool, dark place. Avoid exposing the seeds to direct sunlight or high temperatures, as this can cause them to lose their flavor and nutritional value over time. For optimal storage, consider adding a desiccant pack or silica gel to the container to absorb any residual moisture. This will help prevent mold growth and ensure the longevity of your sunflower seed stash. With proper drying and storage, your sunflower seeds can be enjoyed for up to a year or more. Harvesting sunflower seeds at the right time: The moment you've been eagerly anticipating has arrived - it's time to harvest your sunflower seeds! Timing is crucial when it comes to reaping the rewards of your hard work, as harvesting at the right stage ensures the best flavor, texture, and overall quality of your sunflower seed crop. To determine the optimal harvest time, keep a close eye on the sunflower heads as they mature. The telltale signs of readiness include the petals drying out and the backs of the heads turning from green to yellow or brown. Additionally, the seeds themselves should be plump, firm, and easily removable from the flower head. When the majority of your sunflower heads have reached this stage, it's time to begin the harvesting process. Start by carefully cutting the flower heads, leaving a few inches of stem attached. Gently brush off any loose seeds or debris, taking care not to damage the delicate seed casings. Next, it's time to extract the seeds from the flower heads. This can be done in a few different ways, depending on the scale of your harvest. For small-scale gardens, you can simply rub the flower heads between your hands, gently rolling and pressing to release the seeds. Larger harvests may require the use of a seed thresher or a simple wooden bat to gently strike the flower heads and dislodge the seeds. As you collect the seeds, be sure to keep them separated by variety or planting date. This will help you maintain the unique characteristics of each sunflower strain and ensure proper storage and future planting. Store the harvested seeds in a cool, dry place until you're ready to enjoy them or prepare them for long-term storage. One important tip to keep in mind during the harvesting process is to be mindful of the birds and other wildlife that may be attracted to your sunflower fields. Consider covering the flower heads with netting or mesh to protect the seeds from being snatched by hungry foragers. This will ensure that you're able to reap the full bounty of your sunflower harvest. With the seeds safely gathered, it's time to move on to the final step in the sunflower seed journey - drying and storing your precious harvest for long-term use. By following the proper techniques, you can ensure that your sunflower seeds retain their flavor, nutritional value, and viability for seasons to come.

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Conclusion: Enjoying the fruits of your labor Congratulations! You've successfully navigated the journey of sunflower seed harvesting, from careful planning and nurturing to the final bountiful harvest. The time and effort you've invested in your sunflower fields have paid off, and now it's time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Whether you plan to use your sunflower seeds for culinary purposes, bird feeding, or even planting next year's crop, the satisfaction of a successful harvest is unparalleled. Take a moment to bask in the beauty of your blooming sunflower fields and appreciate the hard work that has brought you to this point. As you begin to incorporate your freshly harvested sunflower seeds into your daily life, consider the many ways you can enjoy them. Roast them for a delightful snack, sprinkle them on salads and baked goods, or even press them for their nutritious oil. The versatility of sunflower seeds knows no bounds, and you can unleash your creativity in the kitchen to create a wide array of delectable dishes. If you've harvested more sunflower seeds than you can immediately use, don't let them go to waste. Properly dried and stored, your sunflower seeds can be enjoyed for months or even years to come. Refer back to the drying and storage techniques outlined earlier in this guide. Beyond culinary uses, sunflower seeds can also serve as a valuable food source for local wildlife. Consider setting aside a portion of your harvest to scatter in your garden or nearby bird feeders, providing a nutritious treat for your feathered friends. Embrace the joy and satisfaction that comes with mastering the art of sunflower seed growing and harvesting. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a newcomer to the world of sunflowers, the sense of accomplishment and the delicious rewards of your labor will make every moment spent in your blooming fields truly worthwhile. PA G E 3 4 | H O M E

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O R C H AR D FAR M

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F O O TBAL L

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C R E A T O R S P O T L I G H T CHECKOUT BE SEEN’S LATEST EPISODE HIGHLIGHTING A NEW RECORD STORE OPEN IN FRENCHTOWN GRAPHIC DESIGN // MARKETING // VIDEO PRODUCTION BY BE SEEN PUBLIC

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F O U N D RY ART C E N TRE C E L EBRAT ES 20 YEARS Photos by Zac Metcalf

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KI D ’S C O R N ER 370 VALLEY EVENT FEEDS (click on each image to access) PA G E 4 1 | EVE N TS