NTx Connect — November 2025

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CONTENTS NO.6 VETERANS DAY P A G E 5 November is a time to celebrate all who have served in the military for the sake of our country. WELLNESS CORNER P A G E 1 6 Anxiety is often misunderstood. Some may see it as a weakness or a flaw, but what if anxiety is a signal. LEGACY IN THE SKIES P A G E 1 0 The Commemorative Air Force’s Mo. Wing is only 15 minutes north of New Town and makes for a great day trip. FINANCIAL CORNER P A G E 2 0 Mike Hunsberger talks about how benefits for veterans have the ability to change lives. EAGLE’S VIEW P A G E 2 7 September 15-19, students at OFHS participated in the Tackle Hunger Food Drive BUSINESS Q&A P A G E 2 3 The French District Villas are redefining the concept of "home ownership alternative". Veterans Edition NTxConnect November, 2025 3

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Paul Dinkins Publisher publisher’s letter ntxconnect . M A G A Z I N E S P O T L I G H T P u b l i s h e r P a u l D i n k i n s P r o d u c t i o n & D e s i g n N Z N P u b l i s h i n g . c o m C o n t r i b u t o r s E l l a H o l t E m i l y C l e m o n s C i n d y J a c k s o n M i k e H u n s b e r g e r G r a c i e P f a u t s c h On the heels of Halloween, November brings a peaceful fall chill into the air in the weeks leading up to the busy holiday season. As we enter the month, those of us at NTx Connect would like to take the opportunity to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our readers who are veterans or active-duty military for their service. As a Navy veteran, it’s important to me that we highlight all those who have served our country. That’s why The Commons has always had and will continue to have a veteran discount, as a thanks to those who served. It’s also why this month’s publication is focusing on veterans and active service members. Read about veteran experiences, stories, resources and more this month and we reflect on the sacrifices these people have made. We encourage everyone to take a moment this month to intentionally connect with the veterans around them. Thank yous are great, but take it a step further and honor them by listening. Perhaps, ask to hear their story of enlisting or being conscripted, or to share their proudest service moment. Their unique courage and dedication can remind us of the strength found in service and the importance of pride in our communities. As we head into the holiday season, let’s carry that same spirit of deep gratitude and connection forward. VOL. 1 NO. 6 On the cover: Sweet Louise Inquiries: If you are interested in advertising with NTx, please e-mail deb@ntxconnect.com. 4 www.ntxconnect.com

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Veterans Day November is a time to celebrate all who have served in the military for the sake of our country. Along with celebrating those who have served, we’re taking the chance this November to gain a better understanding of what military personnel go through, as well as highlighting some of the resources that can help support our veterans. FAMILY, HEALTH & THE ROAD AHEAD By Ella Holt

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The Career After the Career: There are many aspects to military life that civilians may not even think about or know of. One thing civilians may not understand is what goes into the adjustment after retiring from service. Though not everyone has the same exact experience, there are a few ideas that overlap among many of those in our community who are serving or who have served. “It's just going to be a big change, and I don't really know what to expect on the other end,” said Brandon Berk, who will be retiring from the Army in December. Berk joined the military less than two weeks after his high school graduation, and as his retirement ceremony approaches he’s coming up on 20 years in the military, with his last official day being July 1 of next year. Berk said the thing he will miss most about being a part of the military is the camaraderie aspect. “It's a big brotherhood,” he said. “I have people all over the country and other countries. I can just call them up. It could be I haven't talked to them in two to five years and I can just say, ‘I'm coming through town,’ and they just tell you to ‘come on, we’ve got a bed for you.’” Local financial planner and Air Force veteran Mike Hunsberger shares a similar sentiment. “When you're in the military, it's typically a pretty purpose-driven organization, and you've got the camaraderie and the connection, and a lot of veterans can struggle with the loss of that, especially if they move out of a community and to somewhere else where maybe they don't know as many people or just don't have those connections that they had,” Hunsberger said. He also highlighted how things can change within family life too. “On retirement or separation from the military, it's rethinking those roles and maybe it's now the spouse going back and putting their career at the forefront versus the military member,” Hunsberger said. “So (there’re) a lot of different dynamics there that can, you know, on the transition change the relationship.” Hunsberger works as a financial planner that specializes in advising both active duty members and retired veterans. He said some of the benefits out there for military members include ways to help ease the transition from a military life to a civilian one. There are options for job and career coaching for people who may not know what they want to do, or even for people who need refreshers on how to build resumes, what to expect in job interviews and so on. 6 www.ntxconnect.com

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Paul Dinkins, owner of The Commons – and publisher of this magazine – is a Navy veteran, as is his wife. Dinkins and his wife, Patricia, were both Korean Linguists and were stationed in Japan. They met while they were learning Korean in Monterey, and got married in Okinawa. For Dinkins, he said his transition back to civilian life wasn’t too challenging. “One of the things I think a lot of people miss when they leave the military is the camaraderie,” Dinkins said. After retiring, he went to graduate school in Seattle. “I think I was able to quickly, you know, still feel like I had that (camaraderie). And I don't know if I was intentional or organically found that community again,” he said. Mental and Physical Health and Wellbeing: Given the mental and physical tolls that serving in the military can take on people, it’s only fitting that there are services out there to aid those who can use them. “Sometimes people don’t know what services are out there,” said Cindy Jackson, who specializes in integrated health and wellness. “Those transitions are pretty difficult to navigate,” she added. Jackson recommended looking into H.E.R.O.E.S. Care as a resource for veterans, as it’s one organization that helps with some of the gaps in coverage. H.E.R.O.E.S. Care is a nonprofit in High Ridge, Missouri, that helps military personnel in all walks, from pre-deployment to post-deployment. The organization has an appointment-based system that allows military personnel and their families to “shop” around their building and take what items they need, free of charge. “We make sure that they understand this is a thank you for what you've done,” said Jon Jerome, the president of H.E.R.O.E.S. Care. H.E.R.O.E.S. Care also helps people make sure they’re taking advantage of all their benefits, and they offer counseling from their headquarters. “The whole idea is, how do we tear down those roadblocks?” Jerome said. He highlighted the idea that it can be useful for people to speak with a professional about their experiences, as they may not want to put the weight of what they’ve been through on a spouse or loved one. H.E.R.O.E.S. Care has clothes for adults and kids, shoes, nonperishable food items, home decor, toys, school supplies and more. The organization also accepts donations. To learn more, visit heroescare.org. Another suggestion from Jackson is a resource webpage, found at https://www.sccmo.org/1733/Resources-forVeterans. The website has links for programs that can assist with health benefits, homeless services, PTSD, substance abuse, health care and a veteran crisis line. NTxConnect November, 2025 7

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Military Family Appreciation: As we shine a light on veterans this November, it’s also National Military Family Appreciation month. Veterans make great sacrifices for the good of the country, and there are also sacrifices their families make to support them and make their service possible. “While you're serving, a lot of times you move quite frequently, so that can definitely have impacts on families of, ‘hey, every couple years we've got to get up and pick up and move,’ and so that can definitely be hard,” Air Force veteran Mike Hunsberger said. For children in military families, it’s estimated they move between six to nine times from the time they start kindergarten until they graduate high school, according to the U.S. Department of Defense. It also takes an emotional toll on both service members and their families to be apart from a loved one, and those in the service may worry about their family’s wellbeing as their family worries about the service member’s safety. “Eighty-five percent of the problems you have when deployed is the service member is thinking about what's going on back home,” Jerome said. “When they're worried about their family, they're not mission focused.” Something H.E.R.O.E.S. Care also offers is helping to connect military family members with volunteers who know what they’re going through. He said that it helps not just the family of military personnel, but it also reassures those serving away from home that their loved one is somewhat taken care of and looked after. In addition, Jerome said some of the counseling H.E.R.O.E.S. Care deals with is related to relationship hardships that come with military family life. As mentioned in the previous section by Hunsberger, family dynamics can change during and after veterans leave and return as roles in the family may change and take different forms. There are so many ways to show appreciation for the veterans in our lives and in our community. Attempting to understand some of the hardships that they and their families go through can be a great step in expanding your knowledge and appreciation this Veterans Day. In addition, there are some great local resources, whether you’re using them or supporting them in their mission. So, this November, please join us in thanking our local veterans. ntxconnect . F E A T U R E 8 www.ntxconnect.com

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By Ella Holt If you take Highway 94 up through the more rural part of North St. Charles City, you’ll find a hidden gem that takes you a step back in time. The Commemorative Air Force’s (CAF) Missouri Wing is only 15 minutes north of New Town, so I visited their museum to learn more about this historic site so close to home. The CAF Missouri Wing has several World War II planes, as the wing houses a B-25 Mitchell, TBM-3 Avenger, L-3S and PT-17 Stearman. “The mission of the CAF is to educate, inspire and honor,” said Rob Jenner, a volunteer at the CAF Missouri Wing and the current primary pilot for the B-25. The organization is located at Smartt Field, named after Joseph Smartt, who died at Pearl Harbor. The area also has a museum installation that changes annually to reflect the different years of World War II and what life looked like at the time. “It's a little complicated because we have to catalog what we took out and what we put in and where everything is,” said Gerry Spavale, the wing’s education officer. The vintage planes housed at the CAF are used in airshows all around the Midwest come springtime. “We try to fly as many airshows a year as we can,” Jenner said. Additionally, the program holds some local events where you can see the planes in action, including a Memorial Day event at Spirit of St. Louis airport and an annual Pumpkin Drop, which was held on October 25 this year. The CAF is an all-volunteer organization, and there are about 100 members in the St. Louis area. The volunteers hope to not only honor the history of those who served, but also inspire the younger generations to learn the 10 www.ntxconnect.com 7 A LEGACY IN THE SKIES

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history and possibly take interest in careers in aviation and engineering. “It also causes us to have a reputation change from what was once a bunch of guys just flying the old airplanes around to have fun, to now filling the void at the educational level in certain school districts that don't have the time or bandwidth to cover the history side of it,” said Bob Lawrence, the wing’s development officer. The CAF also has a ride program, where people can pay for a 50-minute flight in its B-25 or TBM. The group has had the chance to take World War II veterans up in the planes they used to fly themselves, and Lawrence says, “It is probably the greatest thing that we get to do here.” For those who are interested, the CAF Missouri Wing offers tours. For school field trips, the organization has STEM projects students can work on, and it also gives students an opportunity to see and touch the planes. “We've developed some really good STEM education exercises,” Lawrence said. “How do we show how an airplane flies? What can we show about aerodynamics?” Jenner added. For anyone interested in learning more or booking a tour, information can be found on the CAF Missouri Wing’s website at cafmo.org. 12 www.ntxconnect.com

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APRIL GARDENING GUIDE: ESSENTIAL CHORES FOR ZONE 7 THIS SPRING NTxConnect November, 2025 13

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By Lisa Tebbe & Amaya Firestone In the yearly rhythm at the Academy of the Sacred Heart, students of all ages are given opportunities to put their gifts as a class community to work for the greater good. Beyond our Service Learning Program and numerous charity opportunities, special occasions and holidays are transformed into moments of leadership. For Veterans Day, the student leaders of our Lower School, Fourth Class, prepare a morning of reverence, celebration and patriotism. They coordinate a color guard, prayers and speakers, recognize guests of honor and work with Choir Club to entertain with patriotic tunes. Many veterans in our community -- grandparents, parents and family friends – are in attendance. A digital slideshow allows loved ones from afar to submit their photos and be included in our appreciation. Active-duty military families feel cherished and supported by the community found in every classroom at the Academy of the Sacred Heart. We are happy to honor the resilience and strength of these valued members of our school. When veterans give their time and talent back to our students, it is a priceless gift. In the past year, several classes have had the special opportunity to benefit from these experiences. In their history class, Eighth Class students welcomed John McClure, former Academy Board Chair, parent of alumni and current grandparent, to share his experiences serving in Vietnam. Mr. McClure, who was stationed in the Highlands of Vietnam, presented images he captured during his time as a combat engineer in the 299th Combat Engineer Battalion. His unit was responsible for securing sites and clearing mines or booby traps before road construction could begin, as well as building heavy machinery. This visit was especially meaningful because Mr. McClure’s two grandsons, Will Stewart (2025) and Mac McClure (2025), were in attendance during their last academic year at the Academy. "Learning about grit from firsthand experiences like Mr. McClure's provides invaluable lessons on resilience and determination,” says Mary Furay, history teacher. “It's a privilege for our students to gain such profound insights directly from those who've lived through historical moments." Honoring Our Veterans Sergeant Major Josh Foor, husband of Academy music teacher Liz Foor, and their children. Our littlest learners entertain students and guests. Mr. John McClure speaks to the Seventh and Eighth Classes about his service in Vietnam. ntxconnect . C O M M U N I T Y 14 www.ntxconnect.com

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WELLNESS CORNER Navigating Anxiety By Cindy Jackson Anxiety is often misunderstood. Some may see it as a weakness or a flaw, but what if anxiety is a signal – a chance to grow, adapt and build new strengths? In today’s fast-paced world, anxiety is a common experience, affecting people of all ages, especially younger generations. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), CDC reports 1 in 5 U.S. adults experiences an anxiety disorder each year – that’s over 42 million people. Rather than viewing it as a setback, we can learn to see anxiety as an invitation to develop new skills, build a healthier lifestyle and discover inner calm. Understanding Anxiety: More Than Just Stress Anxiety differs from everyday stress. While stress is often short-term and triggered by external events, anxiety can be persistent, with triggers that are harder to pinpoint. It affects the body and brain, leading to symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sleep disturbances and difficulty concentrating. Chronic anxiety can even reshape brain structures, impacting memory and emotional regulation. Anxiety is not likely to disappear left unattended, but requires intentionality, practice and a good dose of selflove. We have all heard the phrase, “face your fears.” Well, the same is true of anxiety. Leaving anxiety as the ominous backdrop in our thoughts does nothing to help. Turning into anxiety and getting up close and personal is the path forward. “Anxiety can create feelings of confusion, a lack of clearheadedness and the presence of disorganized thoughts, which can make it difficult to find the words to express yourself clearly and feel understood by those around you.” — Madhuri Jha, psychotherapist and clinical advisor at Psych Hub Why Is Anxiety Increasing? Recent years have seen a dramatic rise in anxiety, especially among adolescents and young adults. Factors include: 16 www.ntxconnect.com

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H A P P E N I N G S M A G A Z I N E Leadership & Management Smartphones & social media: The shift from flip phones to smartphones brought constant connectivity, online comparison and cyberbullying. Internet Pressures: Privacy risks, disinformation and digital addiction contribute to mental strain. Cultural Shifts: Economic uncertainty, polarization and changing social norms add to the burden. Statistics show that Gen Z reports the highest levels of anxiety, with rates climbing steadily since 2010, the era when smartphones and social media became ubiquitous. “My central claim in this book is that these two trends — overprotection in the real world and under protection in the virtual world — are the major reasons why children born after 1995 became the anxious generation.” — Jonathan Haidt, The Anxious Generation Strategies for Inner Calm We benefit from implementing lifestyle building blocks to decrease anxiety and cope in a healthy manner when it does arise. These integrated, foundational steps include: Build Meaningful Relationships: Authentic connections and emotional support reduce loneliness and foster resilience. In-person, face to face relationships bring us a level of support which our social media followers cannot. Healthy Routines: Consistent sleep, balanced nutrition and regular exercise form the foundation of mental wellbeing. When we are regulating our bodies, it’s much easier to regulate our thoughts and emotions. Community & Support Networks: Engaging with groups and accessing resources helps individuals feel understood and empowered. Mindfulness Practices: Meditation, deep breathing and present-moment awareness can calm the mind and body. Being present is key to acceptance rather than striving to “fix” what we cannot and dreading what might be. Put down the phone, turn off the distractions and connect with the “here and now.” Reframe & Respond: Learn to pause, observe and respond to stressors with awareness rather than react on autopilot. Respond Rather than React When faced with anxious thoughts that seem to be in an endless feedback loop, it’s important to respond NTxConnect November, 2025 17

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thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. Reacting often leads to heightened anxiety and stress, while responding allows for a more measured and constructive approach. Here are some strategies to help you respond to anxious thoughts: Acknowledge and Accept: The first step is to acknowledge anxious thoughts without judgment. Be curious and accept that they are a part of your current experience. This acceptance can reduce the power these thoughts have over you. Pause and Breathe: Take a moment to pause and focus on your breathing. Deep, slow breaths can help calm your mind and body, creating a space between thought and your reaction. Challenge the Thoughts: Question the validity of your anxious thoughts. Are they based on facts or assumptions? Often, anxiety is fueled by unfounded beliefs about yourself, others and the world around us. Challenging these thoughts can help you see them in a more realistic light. Often our anxious thoughts do have a thread of truth, which seems to keep them stuck, but parsing out the truth from the unfounded, leads us to the next step-reframe. Reframe the Thoughts: Try to reframe your anxious thoughts in a more positive or neutral way. Instead of thinking, "I can't handle this," try thinking, "This is challenging, but I can find a way to manage it." “I’ll never learn this,” vs “I haven’t learned this yet.” Focus on the Present: Anxiety often involves worrying about the future or ruminating on the past. Bring your attention back to the present moment. Mindfulness techniques, such as focusing on your senses or engaging in a grounding exercise, can be helpful Take Action: Identify small, manageable steps you can take to address the source of your anxiety. Taking action, even in small ways, can give you a sense of control and reduce feelings of helplessness. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Recognize that everyone experiences anxiety at times, and it doesn't mean there's something wrong with you. Treat yourself with the same compassion you would offer a friend. Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out to friends, family or professionals for support. Talking about your feelings can provide relief and offer new perspectives. 18 www.ntxconnect.com

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Sphere of Control: Focus on what you can control — your thoughts, actions and mindset. By directing energy toward your “sphere of control” you can feel more empowered and at peace. Practice, Practice, Practice It’s tempting to approach managing our anxious thoughts as a one and done deal. I’m not sure much of life works in this fashion, despite our longing for microwave fixes. Building a healthy lifestyle that supports inner peace, acceptance and calm is just that, a building project that is never fully completed. Recognizing anxious thoughts and re-scripting them with truth, perspective, self-love and balance is a part of growing as a human being. No magic wands, just consistent practice, emphasizing progress, not perfection. Perfection is a lie, and its pursuit just ends up making us more…you guessed it, anxious. Professional Help If you or someone you love is struggling with anxiety, please know that help is available. You are not alone in your journey and professional help can often be the support you need to move forward. Wellness Coaching takes an integrated, personalized approach to support you in building a healthy lifestyle and response pattern for anxiety. For a free Discovery Call to see if coaching is ntxconnect . W E L L N E S S the best next step for you, please reach out to cindyjacksonwellnes.com/coaching. “Just when the caterpillar thought the world was ending, he turned into a butterfly.” — Anonymous NTxConnect November, 2025 19

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FINANCIAL CORNER Veterans Guide To Benefits By Mike Hunsberger Every November, we pause to honor the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. As a veteran, Veterans Day is more than a date on the calendar—it’s a reminder of the sacrifices made, the camaraderie shared, and the promises our country has made to those who served. One of those promises is access to a wide range of benefits designed to support veterans after they leave the military. Yet, too many veterans don’t know what’s available or how to claim what they’ve earned. As a financial planner who works closely with military and veteran clients, I’ve seen firsthand how these benefits can transform lives. This article is your guide to understanding what could be available for you and how to take action. Why Benefits Matter Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging. Whether it’s navigating a new career, managing health issues, or simply adjusting to a different pace of life, veterans often face hurdles that they’ve not encountered before. Veterans’ benefits can help in the transition. Other benefits, like Veterans Administration (VA) health care, may provide lifetime support based on qualifying injuries or conditions that resulted from military service. These benefits aren’t handouts but earned resources meant to ease the transition and support long-term well-being. Key Benefits Every Veteran Should Know About Veterans Administration Disability Payments and VA Pension: Understanding your financial benefits can help with long-term security. VA Disability Compensation: Monthly tax-free payments for service-connected disabilities. The recently passed PACT Act expands health care and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange and other toxic substances, making it easier for them to access the support they've earned. 20 www.ntxconnect.com

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H A P P E N I N G S M A G A Z I N E CEO OF RIMBERIO COMPANY Leadership & Management anim ipsum veniam deserunt laborum do velit tempor deserunt enim laborum in aute culpa consectetur nulla aliquip elit Lorem do tempor voluptate est voluptate dolor VA Pension: For wartime veterans with limited income and assets. Health Care Benefits The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers comprehensive health care services to eligible veterans. This includes preventive care, mental health services, prescriptions and specialized treatment for servicerelated conditions. VA Health Care: Eligibility is based on factors like VA disability rating (tied to service-connected injuries or conditions), service history, discharge status and income. Mental Health Support: Includes counseling, PTSD treatment and substance abuse programs. Community Care: If VA facilities can’t provide timely care, veterans may be referred to local providers. Education & Training Whether you’re starting college, learning a trade or switching careers, education benefits can open doors. These are some benefits that veterans may not be aware of or may not be taking full advantage of. Post-9/11 GI Bill: Covers tuition, housing and supplies for veterans who served after September 10, 2001. May also be transferred to children or spouse if you opted-in while serving and met additional service commitments. Montgomery GI Bill: Available to those who contributed during active duty. Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E): Helps veterans with service-connected disabilities prepare for and find employment. Scholarships & Tuition Assistance: Many states and organizations offer additional support for veterans and their families. Housing Assistance Owning a home is a cornerstone of financial stability, and the VA makes it easier. VA Home Loans: No down payment, competitive interest rates and no private mortgage insurance (PMI). Eligibility depends on service history and discharge status, but is widely available for most veterans. This is a lifetime benefit that can be used numerous times in the future. NTxConnect November, 2025 21

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Adapted Housing Grants: For veterans with serviceconnected disabilities to modify or build homes suited to their needs. Common Barriers to Accessing Benefits Despite the availability of these resources, many veterans face obstacles taking advantage of them. This could often be because they simply are unaware that these benefits exist or that they do indeed qualify. Claiming and qualifying can be complicated, confusing and time consuming, which can also discourage veterans from taking action. Additionally, some veterans may feel that other veterans need the support more, so they don’t apply for or get the benefits they’ve also earned. These barriers are real, but they’re not insurmountable. The key is knowing where to start and who to ask for help. How to Take Action Here’s a simple roadmap to help you get started. The first step is going to VA.gov and reviewing your benefits. I encourage any veteran to create an account and review your information and benefits. If you need to file for benefits or simply want to know if you qualify for benefits, you should talk with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO). VSOs are trained advocates who understand VA benefits and can help you get access to them. Saint Charles has two VSOs. You can find their info at mvc.dps.mo.gov/service/. There are also VSOs at many veteran-affiliated organizations like the American Legion and VFW. The VA has a VSO search tool on their website at va.gov/get-help-from-accredited-representative/findrep/. As a financial planner, I always encourage my clients who are veterans to treat benefits as part of their overall financial strategy. Whether it’s using the GI Bill to avoid student debt or leveraging VA loans to buy a home, these tools can make a significant difference. Final Thoughts Veteran’s Day is a time to honor service and it’s also a time to empower those who served. If you’re a veteran, you’ve earned these benefits through your sacrifice and commitment. Don’t let confusion or hesitation keep you from claiming them. Reach out. Ask questions. Get help. Whether you’re just starting your civilian journey or it’s been years since you’ve left the military, it’s never too late to take advantage of the support available to you. Mike Hunsberger is a Certified Financial Planner ®, Military Qualified Financial Planner ® ; Colonel, U.S. Air Force, retired; Owner, Next Mission Financial Planning 22 www.ntxconnect.com

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The St. Charles housing market has a unique new contender offering a blend of luxury living with lowmaintenance convenience: French District Villas. Located within the New Town community, these residences are redefining the concept of "home ownership alternative". We sat down with French District Villas Management to get the inside scoop on this distinctive community. Q: Please give our readers a brief overview of French District Villas and what makes it a unique offering in the St. Charles housing market? We are unique in that our villas are for lease. This provides residents with an alternative to home ownership which usually involves a large down payment and costly maintenance. Our beautiful villas are move-in ready and come with dedicated 24-hour emergency maintenance. Q: What about the "villa" concept sets it apart from a typical apartment or townhome rental? Our villas feel like a traditional home. Each unit has two bedrooms, two full baths and a large open-concept floor plan. Unlike most apartments, we include a private porch and patio and a large attached two-car garage with convenient alley access. Garages are equipped with a 240 V outlet ideal for golf cart, electric vehicle and scooter charging. Q: How does being in the New Town community enhance the living experience for your residents? Our residents can enjoy all that New Town has to offer, including a local grocery store, unique eateries, multiple lakes for water recreation, sports courts and a local gym, two community pools and several parks. Not to mention all the fun events in the Amphitheater. Q: What specific luxury finishes or features are included in every villa that contributes to a high-end living experience? Each villa features an over-sized kitchen with granite countertops, kitchen island and ample cabinet space, as well as high ceilings, large, light-maximizing windows and stylish, wood-look plank flooring throughout. Q: What is the best way for an interested community member to learn more, schedule a tour or inquire about current availability? We encourage anyone interested in French District Villas to visit our website at www.frenchdistrictvillas.com You can also email us at frenchdistrict@2bresidential.com or call our amazing leasing team at 636-896-7913. Q: Finally, what is the long-term vision for French District Villas? French District Villas is looking forward to a very rewarding experience for our residents within the New Town community and plans to be an integral member of the neighborhood. Our main goal is to provide our residents with a local, walkable living environment that they will love to call home. We also look forward to partnering with local New Town businesses in our 2B Perks Program where we work with local restaurants, retailers and entertainment venues to provide our residents discounts at the places they love to go. 6 BUSINESS Q&A NTxConnect November, 2025 23

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H A L L OW E E N Photos by Lexi Pyszka

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P A R A D E

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Written by Gracie Pfautsch Collaborated on by Lily Bauer, Hallee Inman, JaKai Robinson and Meghan Rose Tackle Hunger Food Drive Sees Success Amid Community Participation Throughout the week of September 15-19, students at Orchard Farm High School participated in the Tackle Hunger Food Drive, hosted by KSDK. Tackle Hunger, sponsored by Operation Food Search, 5 On Your Side, and Neighbor's Credit Union, aims to collect 75,000 pounds of food to support those affected by the May 16 tornado. To fuel motivation, the drive is based around rivalry football games each week of the season. During the fourth week, Orchard Farm battled St. Charles West High School both in football and the food drive. If there’s one thing to know about Orchard Farm, it’s that rivalry is taken very seriously; losing is not an option. The students and the community were strongly encouraged to donate whatever possible. Additionally, Orchard Farm’s Principal’s Council created a reward system for the high school students. Students had a chance to win a raffle for every 5 items they donated. At the end of the week, three students were drawn from the raffle and announced at lunch. The first student won a $50 gift card to the school spirit store, and the next two both won $25 each. In addition, the Student Council, Captain’s Council, and National Honor Society helped get the word around school by using social media posts and flyers. On Tuesday, the second day of the food drive, KSDK came to the school and interviewed a few students on how donations were going, what strategies were being used, and any messages to send to St. Charles West. Outside of the high school, the community was a strong factor in donating. Many times throughout the week, members of our community would come by the school to drop off countless numbers of donations. On top of that, Orchard Farm Elementary and Discovery Elementary were great participants, donating large amounts of food and other goods to the drive. To thank both of the elementary schools for donating, the football team paid them a visit. Our strong sense of Orchard Farm pride helped us not only beat St. Charles West in the drive but practically destroyed them. At the end of the week, all of the donations were weighed. St. Charles West collected 989 pounds of donations. To no surprise, Orchard Farm collected 3,759 pounds of donations. Additionally, Incarnate Word Academy chipped in on the week, donating a total of 4,328 pounds! Altogether, 9,076 pounds were collected, feeding over 3,000 people for a day. The win over St. Charles West would not have been possible without the help of our community. There was no second thought when it came to providing for those in need. To conclude the drive, but keep the winning spirit going, Orchard Farm’s football team beat St. Charles West 49-14 at their home field. Despite it being an away game, our wonderful community showed up and showed out to cheer on the team, advancing to a 4-0 record at that time. This food drive was such a wonderful way to show off our school spirit, how involved our community truly is, and how much they care. There was no hesitation when it came to donating, ultimately bettering our city and aiding people in need. EAGLE’S VIEW EAGLE’S VIEW Eagle’s View is a student-run column in partnership with Orchard Farm High School. NTxConnect November, 2025 27

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POPPIES FOR A CAUSE As we celebrate Veterans Day, there are also a couple of other days throughout the year that we can use to celebrate those who served our country. In addition to Memorial Day, there’s another day in May that not only supports veterans, but encourages people to show their support in a unique way. National Poppy Day is an initiative led by the American Legion Auxiliary, which is part of the American Legion Family. The American Legion Auxiliary is a women’s service organization open to female veterans, as well as female family members of veterans. The goal of the day is to honor the sacrifices military personnel make while also raising funds to support veterans and their families. National Poppy Day is observed on the Friday before Memorial Day, and Americans are encouraged to wear a red poppy as a sign of respect and gratitude in honor of the fallen. Many American Legion Family members will sell paper poppies – many of them made by disabled or hospitalized veterans as part of their rehabilitation – and use the money to support veterans and active-duty service members. Inspired by the poem, “In Flanders Fields,” which was written during World War I, red poppies became an internationally recognized symbol of the remembrance of veterans. The poem was written in 1915, and the American Legion adopted the poppy as its official memorial flower five years later while the American Legion Auxiliary adopted it another year later. The local American Legion Auxiliary is associated with American Legion Post 312 in St. Charles. The group puts on multiple fundraisers per year, and also offers scholarships for area high school students, including Missouri Girls State. The ALA Missouri Girls State program is a week-long experience for high school juniors to learn about government and civic engagement. Participants are selected through a competitive process and organized into parties to elect officials and run their own mock government. To learn more, visit legion-aux.org. NTxConnect September, 2025 37 In Flanders Fields By Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae In Flanders fields, the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie, In Flanders fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields. Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae was a soldier, physician and poet. 28 www.ntxconnect.com

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By Emily Clemons The journey back to civilian life can feel like swapping one mission for another: build stability, find community and carve out a future that fits. Housing sits at the center of that mission. Veterans aren’t just looking for a roof, they’re looking for roots. New Town is built around connection. Sidewalks, front porches, pocket parks and a lively town square draw people outside and toward each other. For veterans accustomed to strong unit culture, that daily rhythm of “Hey neighbor” moments, grilling by the lake, chatting at the mail kiosk and bumping into friends at the coffee shop re-creates the camaraderie many miss after service. It’s easy to meet people here, and easier to feel known. One of the biggest stress relievers is convenience. In New Town, life is set up so the essentials are close: restaurants, small businesses, green spaces and community gathering spots. Lakes and trails thread through the neighborhood, making evening walks and early morning runs part of the natural routine. Kids can bike to the playground while adults stroll to a concert on the amphitheater lawn. When everyday errands and downtime don’t require a long drive, the transition home gets gentler. Housing styles in New Town are diverse: cottages, townhomes and single-family homes with alley garages and welcoming front stoops. That variety matters for veterans at different life stages from single and setting up a first home, moving in with a spouse and kids or rightsizing after a PCS cycle (Permanent Change of Station). Many homes offer flexible spaces with office nooks, extra bedrooms or finished basements that can become a workshop, a counseling space for telehealth or a quiet place to decompress. The best homes are only as good as the community that surrounds it. New Town’s calendar is full with neighborhood festivals, markets, parades, pool days and block-by-block traditions where everyone pitches in. Veterans and military families often thrive in environments where people show up for each other; here, that’s the default. You’ll find volunteer opportunities, kid-friendly events and plenty of chances to plug into something bigger than your own four walls. Pair New Town’s lifestyle with the advantages of VA financing and you’ve got a powerful opportunity. For eligible veterans, VA loans often mean no down payment, no private mortgage insurance and competitive rates freeing up cash for furnishings, moving costs or just breathing room. Local brokerage, The Dawning Firm, and lenders familiar with VA appraisals and closing timelines can smooth the path from “We love it” to “We get to live here.” Transition isn’t a single moment. It's a thousand small, steady choices. The neighborhood’s design encourages healthy routines: fresh air by the water, friendly faces on evening loops, kids playing tag in the greenway. That sense of safety, predictability and belonging is its own kind of therapy rooted in community and support rather than a clinic. Bottom line: When veterans look for the next place to call home that will support their next chapter, they’re really searching for a place that restores purpose, offers practical ease and welcomes the whole family. New Town St. Charles does all three beautifully. It’s more than a neighborhood. It’s a soft landing with a strong backbone, ready for the next mission: creating home. REAL ESTATE C O M I N G H O M E 30 www.ntxconnect.com

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101.7 FM ............................................................................................................................. 1st Class Nannies & Nurses .................................................................................................. Academy of The Sacred Heart .............................................................................................. Aerie Lane .......................................................................................................................... Autobahn Car Wash ............................................................................................................ Brody Allen Exteriors .......................................................................................................... Dimentia Life ...................................................................................................................... French District Villas ........................................................................................................... Great Page ........................................................................................................................... Kimberly Jewelers ............................................................................................................... La Belle Vie Cafe ................................................................................................................. MJW Law Office .................................................................................................................. New Town Pickleball ........................................................................................................... Next Mission Financial ........................................................................................................ Pundmann Ford .................................................................................................................. SCBS ................................................................................................................................... Studio Luebke ..................................................................................................................... Sweet Things Bakery ........................................................................................................... The Bridge Coffee ............................................................................................................... The Dawning Firm .............................................................................................................. 7 18 36 15 2 29 11 23 26 8 19 34 18 21 12 29 13 15 17 31 34 www.ntxconnect.com

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