NTx Connect — October 2025
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CONTENTS NO.5 ANNUAL CHALK WALK P A G E 6 For eight years, Chalk the Walk artists have created a vibrant spread of artwork surrounding the fountains. OFHS STUDENT NEWS P A G E 1 2 Next month, we’re starting a column centered around the perspectives of Orchard Farm High School students. NTX CONNECT PET STORIES P A G E 8 Our pets bring us companionship and joy. Check out the stories behind the pets from NTx Connect readers. UNLOCKING MUSICAL TALENT P A G E 1 4 Local music teachers talk about the lessons they provide and the joy of learning something new. WELLNESS CORNER P A G E 2 2 Owning a pet is more than just having a furry friend to cuddle with — it brings a multitude of benefits. BOROUGHS OF ST. CHARLES P A G E 1 6 As St. Charles grows, Mayor Dan Borgmeyer has laid plans for the development of six boroughs. The Pet Edition 4 www.ntxconnect.com
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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 This time of year brings such a welcome change. As the days grow shorter and the air gets a little crisper, we’re reminded of the beauty that each new season brings. We’ve been delighted to fill this issue with the unique spirit of autumn in our community. Inside, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to embrace the season. If the colorful leaves and cozy decor have you feeling creative, dive into our features on local art and music. Whether you want to attend a concert or take up a new hobby, there are so many ways to find inspiration and connect with your community this fall. And for all the animal lovers, we have a special treat! This month, we're celebrating the bond we share with our pets. Be sure to check out our Pet Stories section, where proud pet owners from our area share heartwarming tales of their fourlegged friends. My dog, Ash, pictured here didn’t submit her story on time so didn’t make the cut. As you start to see pumpkins and festive decorations popping up around the neighborhood, don't miss our guide to all things Halloween. The holidays are just around the corner! Get a jump on your festive planning with a look at the New Town Garden Club's annual Poinsettia Sale. VOL. 1 NO. 5 On the cover: Olive the bulldog by Casey Pierce Inquiries: If you are interested in advertising with NTx, please e-mail deb@ntxconnect.com. NTxConnect October, 2025 5
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8t¢h Avvªam Chamk Wamk h Annual Chalk Walk CC m i vg i v N e» T» v o l o r i n g i n N ew To w n BY E L L A H O LT As the September breeze starts to fill the air, New Town residents can count on seeing a beautiful array of colors as they walk down the street. Except, the color doesn’t just come from the changing leaves – it’s also under your feet. For eight years, Chalk the Walk has brought out people’s inner artists, leaving behind a vibrant spread of artwork surrounding the fountains. AN ANNUAL TRADITION
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Molly Schad started Chalk the Walk in New Town and has been running it each year since it started. Her inspiration came from attending a similar event in Utah. As the years have gone by, she’s gotten to watch the event evolve in the community. Schad said she sees new faces and people who are returning, and some people use different tools and techniques to achieve their artistic vision. Chalk is provided to all contestants, and the event recycles chalk from previous years so as to not waste materials. Each contestant chooses a square around the perimeter of the fountains, and anyone of any age and artistic level is welcome. The 2025 theme was “The Sky is the Limit.” Each year, the top three chalk illustrations win a $100 prize. The winners are chosen by three judges, and this year’s judges were: Danielle Steinberg, co-fitness manager and zumba instructor at The Commons Fitness; Logan Wagoner, president of New Town’s Men’s Club; and Matt Lombard, a helicopter pilot. The judges had their work cut out for them when the contest began. “I made a point to not go down there all day so I wouldn't know whose was whose,” said Steinberg, whose daughter was participating in the competition. The judges narrowed the list down to their top picks, and then met up to discuss which ones would be in the top three. “It was harder than I thought it was going to be,” Steinberg said. The judges ended up choosing the artwork of father-son duo Jesse and Noah Roberts, Marc Borchardt and Leah Niebuhr as the top three. Borchardt’s illustration was a plane flying above the clouds. Niebuhr’s artwork was a hand holding a “rocket” made out of a paper cup and cardboard. The Roberts's piece featured a night sky with the Northern Lights. ntxconnect . C O M M U N I T Y NTxConnect October, 2025 7
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8 www.ntxconnect.com 7 Pet Stories From NTx Connect Readers SPONSORED BY DR. TAMI BECKEMAN Olive: Cover Girl (on this issue’s cover) Kelley Lamm’s English Bulldog, Olive, is not only a part of the family, but she’s also a star. Lamm wrote a kid’s book about her beloved bulldog, set right in New Town. The book sees Olive conquering her fear of storms, and encourages kids to face and work through challenges in their lives. "She inspired me to write about conquering fears, and to remind others that even during the wildest storms, there's always sunshine waiting on the other side," Lamm said. Her second book in the “Oh Olive” series will be available November 3. Piper: From breeder to best friend. This is Piper, a standard parti-poodle (because of the two colors of fur) who I rescued four years ago from a breeding group whose owner died from cancer. She was five years old at the time. She follows me everywhere, probably because she appreciates what a good life we have given her. She is a bit timid but as gentle as can be. She is the perfect walking companion and does twirls as soon as she hears me rattle my house keys. Submitted by: Charles Luebke ntxconnect . P E T S
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NTxConnect October, 2025 79 Harvey Harvey was rescued in Puerto Rico when he was two months old and was flown to St. Louis by Pilots for Paws. I adopted him at the APA in Brentwood when he was three months old. When Harvey was six months old, I found out I had cancer. Harvey became my therapy dog through two surgeries and chemotherapy. I couldn’t have made it through all that without him. He gave me comfort, joy and companionship. Harvey enjoys walks all over New Town, playing with dog friends and playing fetch the ball in the house! Submitted by: Cori Reed Cornelius Newtown I was running along New Town Blvd last summer when I came across a dog in the cornfield. After taking him to Vet Stop and finding out he was not chipped, I fostered him through Diamonds in the Ruff. They believe he was a breeder dump. It ended up being a foster fail. We named him Cornelius Newtown because he was found in the corn along New Town Blvd. He's now living his best life here in New Town with his two other rescue siblings. Submitted by: Stephanie Nenninger Tucker: Just a good old boy. We adopted Tucker from Five Acres Rescue in 2015 and gave him to our daughter Kate on Christmas day. She always talked about getting a dog once she had her own place. That morning, we had the puppy hiding in the garage as we began our normal Christmas routine. Except this year, my husband told everyone that before we proceeded, he had a special present for Kate. He handed her a small box. While she was opening the box, her sister Christine went into the garage and got Tucker. In the box was a dog collar and as soon as she opened it, Kate was crying and saying "Does this mean what I think it means?" Before we could answer, in comes Tucker and he immediately went to Kate and jumped on her. She dropped to her knees and started loving on him, and has not stopped since. Submitted by: Debbie Sanders Frank and Ramona: Rolling through New Town Frank ‘n Beans and Ramona roll through New Town every day for our walks. They love greeting people and adore all the amazing things they get to see on our walks. Submitted by: Alison Davis
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Bailey and Andre Bailey and Andre are simply the best! Their “special talent” is crazy barking to protect us from delivery drivers —so much so that USPS won’t even deliver packages to our house (at least that is what we tell them)! Despite their wild guard-dog act, they are the sweetest souls and have been the most loving foster siblings to more than 75 foster puppies with Diamonds in the Ruff. Since they were both rescues themselves, they’re naturals at showing each new pup the ropes and making them feel right at home. A few of their foster grads now have forever homes right here in New Town and Charlestowne! Submitted by: Jolene Ponder Chica and Di—2020—the year of face masks and hand sanitizer—and a feisty little pup named Chica. As seniors, we really didn’t need a dog. But a local rescue center decided differently, and somehow we ended up adopting this charming, needy chihuahua, wondering what could possibly go wrong. The answers rolled in quickly discovering Chica would not potty outside in wet grass. And even under perfect conditions, she demanded an audience for her performance. But the one thing we all loved was long car rides. So we drove that year of COVID all over Missouri with the little four-legged dictator asleep in the back seat. In 2021, My husband, Bill passed away. Through my loneliest moments, I increasingly realized that I still had one constant in my life—that quirky chihuahua I didn’t think I needed in 2020. Now, five years later, we have carved out a meaningful life together in New Town. Submitted by: Diane Chisholm Romeo: PR rep for Kimberly Jewelers Romeo will soon be busy promoting Toys for Tots. He works tirelessly at making sure the kids have a great Christmas. Be sure to show him some appreciation when you drop off your donation. Submitted by: Kimberly Ellis Gryphon Nugget - Facebook Phenom Gryphon Nugget is a naughty, intelligent and almostnakey Devon Rex cat who resides in New Town and has amassed over 16,000 followers on Facebook. His willful defiance and love of destruction keep his fans coming back for more mischief than his mom can handle. Submitted by: Lindsay Sutton 10 www.ntxconnect.com
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Lila: My Sweet Girl I got Lila in my last year of college. I was living alone for the first time and began scouring the Columbia Humane Society website until I saw a tiny, blond chihuahua with the biggest brown eyes I'd ever seen. I went there to meet her and she ran straight to me, put her paws on my leg and looked up like she knew I was there for her. Since then, she's moved with me to the first home I owned in New Town, then to Chicago and now back to St. Charles where we've settled in Charlestowne. She loves walking through New Town and getting love from the kids who like that she’s the perfect size for them. She’s taught me the meaning of unconditional love and that the best things come in tiny packages. Submitted by: Christine Sanders NTxConnect October, 2025 711 during a game night we all started talking about the new puppy on the site and turns out we were all looking at Brucey. We decided that night that just maybe it was time for our Bruce Wayne Batman. We put in our application and met “da Monsta” out in the yard and we fell in love. He’s the cuddliest guy and he can be the silliest. He’s our Velcro pup, always wants to lay on you like a lap dog and he’s continuing to heal our hearts every day. Brucey showed up at the right time and we are forever grateful to be healed by these four paws. Submitted by: Kendra Willouer Brucey: The one who’s healing our hearts. Before Brucey, there was our Clarkey. He was our Superman. When we brought home Clark Kent, he became our heartbeat. Unfortunately, we lost him unexpectedly during Covid. That was one of the hardest moments for me and Andrew. About three months later, I started searching on the Five Acres website. Little did I know but so were my hubby and our friends. One night Partners in Crime This is Ink and Nemo. They are eight months old and are in their terrible twos. I’ll enlighten everyone with just a few stories. 1: We walked into the bathroom, where the entire floor was covered in six shredded rolls of toilet paper (strong evidence suggests the suspect is orange). 2: Wasn’t aware that if the mousetrap in the basement catches a mouse, it turns into a toy that gets brought upstairs into the living room. Apparently, dead mice make an excellent bonding toy. 3: We have a little thief on our hands. Ink likes to run off with anything from socks to Apple Watches. If your wallet is missing, check the shoes by the front door. If kitty juvy isn’t an option, we’ll settle for a lawyer, preferably one who speaks meow. Submitted by: Lexi Pyszka
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Something exciting is coming to NTx Connect: next month, we’re starting a column centered around the perspectives of Orchard Farm High School students. Something even more exciting: the column will be written by the students themselves. That’s right, we’re partnering with the school’s yearbook staff to bring teenagers’ perspectives to the magazine each month. The column will be a monthly installation throughout the school year, and students JaKai Robinson, Lily Bauer, Hallee Inman, Gracie Pfautsch and Meghan Rose will collaborate to write the articles. So, don’t forget to pick up your November issue next month, and make sure to keep an eye out for this column to ensure that you’re up to date on all things Orchard Farm – with information straight from an inside source. Keep reading to learn more about the student columnists that will be featured in our issues, starting next month. JaKai Robinson (senior): I joined the Yearbook staff last year and quickly fell in love with the creativity it allowed me to explore through design, writing and photography. That experience sparked my creative passion, which has led me to take on the role of Photography Editor this year. The work I’ve done with this class now extends into my own photography business, where I capture candid school events, sports and more. Along with this, I am currently finishing my final year of volleyball, a sport I’ve loved since I started when I was eight years old. Volleyball has taught me quality lessons in leadership, teamwork and perseverance, which I carry into every part of my life. Beyond athletics, I am passionate about academics and plan to pursue a career in business and marketing. I am currently active in several school organizations outside of yearbook, serving as a National Honor Society officer, member of DECA and a leader in Captain’s Council. I take pride in being organized, collaborative and dedicated, and I am excited to bring my passion for writing, design and photography into this great opportunity to participate in this monthly column. Lily Bauer (junior): This is my second year in the yearbook and I’m now the Academic Editor of our book. My favorite part of the yearbook is capturing every memory of our school in pictures. I’m very involved with the school as I'm in Student Council, Principal’s Council, NHS, Spanish Club and Best Buddies. I am a manager for the girls volleyball team at our school and love being a part of the team. Outside of school I work at Lake St. Charles Retirement home and serve food. I love my job because I like to help others and make them happy and that's exactly what I do at my job. I can’t wait to work on the column and share my insight on our community! Hallee Inman (junior): This is my second year on the yearbook staff and I have already learned so much about designing, photography and interviewing. I am currently the Clubs Editor for the yearbook. I participate in softball and track & field, and I am also a part of the National Honor Society. In my free time, I take pictures at sporting events along with other activities at school. I also enjoy hanging out with my friends, family and going to my siblings' sporting events outside of school. I am so excited for this opportunity to work with NTx Connect! 7 Introducing Eagle’s View: Student News from OFHS 12 www.ntxconnect.com
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Gracie Pfautsch (junior): This is my second year in yearbook and I am the Sports Section Editor. Being in yearbook has taught me so many different skills that I will be able to use throughout my life. I also participate in National Honor Society, Student Council, Principal’s Council and Captain’s Council. I have played varsity volleyball and basketball since my freshman year and am a captain of the basketball team. Outside of school, I enjoy hanging out with my friends, playing pickleball and going to concerts. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to write for NTx Connect! Meghan Rose (junior): I have been in my school’s yearbook class since my sophomore year. This year, I have taken on the role of Student Life Editor for the yearbook. Additionally, I have participated in Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and Best Buddies, and I’m currently a member of the National Honor Society. During the spring, I compete in high jump and triple jump for the track team. In my free time, I enjoy taking pictures at sporting events and academic classes. One of my favorite things to do is spend time studying my Bible, as well as attending church with my peers. JaKai Robinson Lily Bauer Hallee Inman Gracie Pfautsch Meghan Rose NTxConnect October, 2025 13
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UNLOCKING OUR MUSICAL TALENT By Ella Holt Why wait for a new year to get into a new rhythm? Now is the perfect time to open yourself up to the electrifying world of music, whether it’s to learn a new skill or refine what you already know. We spoke with a few local music teachers about the lessons they provide, and what goes into learning something new and making it your own. Voice/Acting Lessons: “If you can reach one or three people in that audience, you've done your job.” That’s the philosophy local voice coach, Kendra Willouer, teaches her students. Willouer has been teaching music for more than 20 years. She primarily provides singing and acting lessons for anyone of any age who wants to learn. She’s worked with people of all ages, from three years old to 85, and works with people of all experience levels. “I think it's really important to meet them where they are when they walk in my door,” Willouer said. Willouer got her start in the world of music when she was three, and she grew up singing and acting. She was involved in theater productions through college, even going on to being a part of some off-Broadway productions. As a performer herself, she understands what goes into performing and building up those skills. “I think one of the coolest things about being a performer is we get to share a glimpse of our own vulnerability with our audience and that's scary, right? But at the same time, it's also really, really beautiful because you're sharing a piece of your soul with that community,” Willouer said. Willouer also tries to balance working on things that the student is comfortable with while venturing out of that comfort zone at times. “The biggest thing that's important to me is building their confidence,” Willouer said. She said trying new things not only expands a musician’s knowledge, but can also set them apart from the crowd when it comes to an audition. Willouer’s services don’t only cater to singers and actors. She’s worked with a newscaster to help preserve and strengthen her voice, and can adapt her methods to people who use their voice as a key part of their job and/or hobby. For people interested in learning more about Willouer and the lessons she provides, visit www.kendrawillouer.com/. Violin Lessons: Learning how to play the violin takes focus, and it’s a skill people build upon over the course of many years. Justin Meaux knows this from decades of experience. Meaux’s great-aunt, Naomi Thorsland, was the person who started his journey with music. She gifted him his very first violin and financed his music lessons throughout his childhood. He started playing at the age of three, and landed his first job teaching violin at 15. He now offers lessons out of St. Charles Christian Church. When Meaux gets a new student, the first thing to work on is building the proper technique to hold the instrument. “The way you hold the instrument, in order to play it correctly, you have to pin it underneath your jaw and have the weight of the instrument actually 100% maintained by your jaw and your shoulder,” Meaux said. He said he sometimes suggests practicing for only a few 14 www.ntxconnect.com
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minutes every day at first, since the posture can be so difficult to maintain. It’s also important that students are dedicated to practicing every day. “If I only see them once a week, and they only really practice correctly one day a week, it's not really going to help them,” Meaux said. Learning how to play the violin, and music in general, can improve students’ ability to focus over time. “You cannot allow your brain to drift off and think about other things while you're trying to play a piece,” Meaux said. People interested in violin lessons with Meaux can contact him at 314-607-1514. Piano Lessons: Hannah Kimbrough has leaned on music since she started playing piano in kindergarten. “It's gotten me through a lot of hard times in life, just being able to play the piano and play what I feel … play my emotions,” she said. Now, she uses that passion to teach others. She has been teaching piano for the past three years, and she currently teaches lessons on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. “I start off with learning the basics, which would be learning skills, and the notes on the piano and different exercises to get their hands comfortable,” Kimbrough said. She provides lessons for people of all ages, her youngest student having been four years old. Kimbrough advises her students to practice 3-4 days a week when starting out, the duration of practice time being dependent on the student’s age. Kimbrough recently graduated from Lindenwood, where she majored in music and got her minor in contemporary music and jazz. She was also a part of the jazz band there, as well as some jazz combos. Kimbrough said she still takes piano lessons in order to keep learning and growing as a musician. People interested in piano lessons from Kimbrough can email her at hkimbroughlessons@gmail.com. ntxconnect . F A M I L Y NTxConnect October, 2025 15
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THE SIX BOROUGHS OF ST. CHARLES Where History Meets Progress By Ella Holt In recent years, it’s been hard to miss all the construction and development happening around St. Charles. There’s no doubt that many parts of the city have been growing and evolving, and New Town is a great example of that. As St. Charles grows, Mayor Dan Borgmeyer has laid plans for the introduction and development of six boroughs, each with their own unique factors that highlight the spirit of the area. The plan is likely to be announced formally toward the end of next year, but here’s what we’ve learned about Borgmeyer’s vision and about the city as a whole. Six Boroughs: Borgmeyer’s inspiration for this plan is twofold. After starting a marketing company in 1973 and spending lots of time traveling to different cities, he was influenced. “I got to see a lot of really cool things, and when I came back to St. Charles I thought, ‘Man, we should have that here,’” Borgmeyer said. Another aspect of this plan comes from his perspective as a businessman, hoping to bring in money from other people as opposed to raising taxes for residents. “I've been focused for six years on tourism,” Borgmeyer said. All six boroughs already have names, logos and distinct 16 www.ntxconnect.com Mural by NTx Member Beena McMahan
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elements that set them apart. New Town is enveloped in North Town, which also encompasses areas like Charlestowne. The area is a great place for residents to settle down, but it also is an area rich with entertainment, including many festivals, concerts and other events. Next to North Town is Frenchtown, an area that has seen its fair share of construction and development as of recent. “I'm very dedicated to Frenchtown,” Borgmeyer said. The future of Frenchtown may lie in recentlypurchased shipping containers that Borgmeyer aspires to turn into an array of boutiques and local businesses. The next two boroughs are North Main and South Main, both known for their mom-and-pop shops that you generally can’t find anywhere else. South Main also has a historical aspect to it, as the area was Missouri’s first state capital. “South Main has always been the gem here, you know, that's the historical district everybody comes to,” Borgmeyer said. The area that has the longest way to go is Riverpointe, which is next to South Main and spans beyond the south side of I-70. There’s still much to be built and developed there, however, there are a lot of businesses and jobs that will come along with the development of the area, and Borgmeyer is happy with the progression of the area thus far. “So between the Streets of St. Charles, which is incredibly successful, and now Riverpointe, everything else is going to be developed all the way down to the Family Arena,” Borgmeyer said. The final borough is South City, which encompasses Family Arena, as well as some residential areas. There’s also some development being done beyond Family Arena, with plans to build apartments, a gas station and even more businesses alongside Highway 364. The hope is that the six different areas will draw in more tourists and leave them with no shortage of things to do and areas to explore. “Six different things to stay here for, so you'll stay overnight,” Borgmeyer said. “If you come for a convention on Wednesday and Thursday, bring your family and stay Friday, Saturday and Sunday.” Another thing in the works that Borgmeyer is excited about is the idea of a steamboat museum right on the river. He’s been in talks with people in relation to different steamboats, and one of the goals is to bring The Arabia to St. Charles, docking it near the Lewis and Clark Museum. Though the six boroughs haven’t formally been introduced to the public, Borgmeyer is optimistic and is NTxConnect October, 2025 17
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working hard to realize his vision. There are some areas that are still unfinished, but given time, St. Charles is sure to keep growing and changing. In the end, the hope is that the boroughs will draw people to our area. The History of New Town/North Town: The North Town area has a rich history, and the New Town we see today still carries the history of the area along with it. According to documents from the St. Charles County Historical Society, this area used to be called Common Field. However, that name was later changed to Royal Domaine. Royal Domaine had a road connecting it to the nearby area, the road being dubbed Rue Royale. This road was eventually renamed Kingshighway. The Boschert family came along in 1831, and they began buying up acres of land in 1844. Decades later, St. Charles suffered from the effects of severe flooding, and then created a toll road to help pay for repairs. Many people resented the fact that they had to pay a toll to get into town, and Edward Boschert solved this by buying the road and eliminating the toll. In 1876, the town became Boschertown, and Kingshighway became Boschert Road. Meanwhile, Orchard Farm was also settled around this time. Mrs. Wilke moved her family to the area from Hanover, Germany, after the death of her husband, John Wilke. At the time, this area was known as Point Prairie. The name was changed to Orchard Farm in 1842 to acknowledge the fine farm products that came from the fertile and healthy soil. To learn more about the vast history of St. Charles, visit the Historical Society from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, or visit their website at https://www.scchs.org/ to learn more or to make a Saturday appointment. ntxconnect . C I T Y 18 www.ntxconnect.com
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In the words of Marc Borchardt: “A part of being human is to create something.” That’s why The Commons is hosting a new series of monthly events to help people get in touch with their inner artist. The program, called Commons Canvas, meets once a month and will give people of all skill levels a chance to tap into their creativity. Borchardt will be there to give help to anyone who wants it. “This is all for fun,” Borchardt said. The event is open to all and is entirely free, and provides a chance for people to make time for creativity in their busy lives. “I extend the invitation to anybody who's ever wanted to do anything with art, ever wanted to draw a picture, paint a picture,” Borchardt said. “A creative outlet is something everybody should have.” Borchardt said art is a great way to help people express themselves, and it also can help people get their minds off of struggles happening in their lives. Borchardt has been doing art for most of his life. “People always said I was artistic from a young age, always drawing,” he said. Borchardt was mentored by a local artist while in college. As a father, he gets to express his creativity in different ways with his kids. Still, he said it’s nice to have time set aside for creativity. “It was just so carefree,” said Molly Schad, who attended the first event in August. She said her family has always been involved in art in different ways. Schad and her son, Harry, both spent their time during the event drawing. “I brought crayons and markers to experiment,” Schad said. People are encouraged to bring any art supplies for whatever medium they’re working in, and The Commons will also have some supplies available. “I know I’m open to sharing what I’m using,” Borchardt said. Another attendee, Lena Mayfield, used pens and watercolors to create flowers. “It was just like a way to connect with people that kind of had the same interest,” Mayfield said. Mayfield has a creative space on Rue Royale St. where she spends time doing art with friends and family. She does a lot of mixed media art, and would like to open the doors to her creative space to more people in the future. Also in attendance was Beena McMahan, a local artist who specializes in murals and portraits. Her work is showcased as a mural on the side of The Commons building. “It's just neat to hear people's ideas and what they're working with or what they're working on,” McMahan said. She spent her time at the event working on a portrait of a house. Make sure to keep an eye out on the NTx Connect Events web page for information about upcoming Commons Canvas events. Commons Canvas C u l t i v a t i n g C r e a t i v i t y & C o m m u n i t y B Y E L L A H O L T ntxconnect . F E A T U R E 20 www.ntxconnect.com
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ntxconnect . T I P S E V E N T P H O T O S B Y D E B S A N D E R S NTxConnect October, 2025 21
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WELLNESS CORNER Benefits of Owning a Pet By Cindy Jackson My middle school-aged daughters and I were going through the darkest period of our lives. My husband, their dad, had just been killed in a tragedy that to this day is still hard to grasp. We were disillusioned, angry, depressed and unbelievably sad. A dark cloud settled over our household and showed no signs of leaving. As Christmas was approaching fast, my 13-year-old daughter mentioned that she wanted a dog. My first thought was, “A dog, seriously? I can’t deal with one more thing!!!!” But the more I considered her request, my heart melted and I thought, “If a dog will make her feel better, then she gets a dog.” This started a quest to find the right dog for Christmas, one that wasn’t going to break the bank or result in a Cujo experience (my apologies to Stephen King fans). A Christmas miracle was in the making, and we found a 6-month-old Labrador, rescued from a terrible situation and looking for a home. Lily immediately became an annoying member of the family, chewing up shoes, needing constant attention and struggling to figure out the difference between grass and carpet (gross, I know). As we all made the adjustment to having a dog in the house and Lily made the adjustment to being a good dog, beautiful transformations began to occur. My oldest daughter, struggling to get through the day, got up to feed Lily before school, went outside each morning and afternoon – rather than listlessly roaming around the house – and snuggled in bed with her furry friend, which helped the dreaded nighttime feel less grim. Lily showed this amazing capacity to empathize with my daughters and me, attuned to our emotions and concerns. She truly became part of our family and when I reflect on that period of our lives, and what her mere presence did for us, I am filled with gratitude. According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), 94 million U.S. households own a pet, accounting for 71% of all households. This figure 22 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 represents a significant rise from the 56% recorded in 1988, the inaugural year of tracking pet ownership trends. Dogs are the most popular pets, with 68 million households owning at least one dog, while 49 million households own at least one cat. Millennials make up the largest percentage of current pet owners at 30%. The pet industry has also seen consistent growth, with U.S. citizens spending $152 billion on their pets in 2024. Obviously, you don’t need to go through a major life event to benefit from owning a pet. Owning a pet is more than just having a furry friend to cuddle with; it brings a multitude of benefits that can significantly enhance our lives. Pets can have a remarkable impact on our wellbeing, from improving mental health to fostering social connections. Mental Health Boost Studies have shown that interacting with pets can reduce stress, anxiety and depression. The simple act of petting a dog or cat can trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and affection. This can lead to lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and an overall sense of calm and happiness. Physical Health Benefits Pet ownership also encourages a more active lifestyle. Dogs require regular walks, which means their owners are more likely to engage in physical activity. This can lead to improved cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of obesity. Additionally, playing with pets can be a fun way to incorporate exercise into your daily routine. Pets need exercise just like us, and their playfulness makes it fun. Social Connections Having a pet can also enhance your social life. Pets often serve as social catalysts, helping to break the ice and initiate conversations with other pet owners. This can lead to new friendships and a stronger sense of community. Dog parks, pet-friendly events and even online pet communities provide ample opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. I have personally seen senior adults thrive once they get a pet, opening their lives to new opportunities to meet others. Teaching Responsibility For families with children, pets can be valuable in teaching responsibility and empathy. Taking care of a pet involves feeding, grooming and ensuring their wellbeing, which can instill a sense of duty and compassion in children. This can also foster a nurturing environment and strengthen family bonds. NTxConnect October, 2025 23
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Unconditional Love and Companionship Perhaps the most profound benefit of pet ownership is the unconditional love and companionship that pets offer. They provide a sense of purpose and can be a constant source of comfort and joy. The bond between a pet and their owner is unique and deeply fulfilling, often leading to a happier and more content life. When we walked into our house, Lily was wagging and waiting for us. This amazing greeting helped lift that heavy, dark cloud over our house and made coming home a little happier. Whether it’s the unconditional love and companionship they offer, the encouragement to lead a more active lifestyle, or the opportunities to connect with others, pets have a profound and positive impact on our well-being. Pets truly make our lives better in countless ways. Cindy Jackson, LSCW, NBC-HWC www.cindyjacksonwellness.com ntxconnect . W E L L N E S S 24 www.ntxconnect.com
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O R C H A R D F A R M Photos by Annie Benfield
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EAGLES TRACK CLUB By Ella Holt As he gears up for his second season of coaching track for Orchard Farm Middle School, Vernon Edwards is shaking up his approach this fall. Come October 15, the Eagles Track Club will be working out in The Commons Fitness Center to prepare for their upcoming season. The student-athletes will spend 45 minutes to an hour working on their technique and learning drills to set them up for success in the spring. Edwards’ goal is to set student-athletes up with the tools they need in order to be prepared for high school track. With this program, kids can learn and build good technique and strength that they can take with them into any high school sport, not just track. Edwards said being a part of sports and programs like this one can teach kids beneficial life skills, even if they don’t care to pursue the sport after middle/high school. Edwards has coached track for 25 years. One of his students was Dawn Harper, who went on to win a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics for 100 meter hurdles. Participation is not mandatory for Eagles Track Club members, though it may give athletes an advantage ahead of the 2026 track season. The work outs will take place on Wednesdays at 5:45 p.m. and Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. The work outs will continue from October through February 18. Participants must be AAU members and must sign up for The Eagles Track Club. Anyone interested in being a part of these workouts ahead of the Eagles Track Club’s season can call Andrea Edwards at 314-541-1820. 14 Photo by Annie Benfield 28 www.ntxconnect.com
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By Emily Clemons When fall arrives in St. Charles, one neighborhood that truly comes alive is New Town. Known for our charming canals, walkable streets and close-knit community, New Town transforms into something magical each Halloween season. The combination of creativity, community spirit and tradition has made it one of the most beloved trick-or-treating destinations in the region; so that traffic often slows to a crawl as visitors pour in from neighboring towns to join the fun. One of the most remarkable things about Halloween in New Town is how entire blocks of neighbors team up to decorate. Instead of individual homes working on their own, you’ll find entire stretches of houses with a coordinated theme. Some blocks go spooky, with cobwebs, skeletons and eerie lighting. Others lean whimsical, with giant inflatables, carved pumpkins or even elaborate displays that look straight out of a movie set. The effect is breathtaking. Walking through New Town on Halloween feels like stepping into a living storybook, where each street offers a new adventure. For residents, it’s not just about handing out candy, it’s about putting on a show for the thousands of children and families who look forward to the event every year. t isn’t only the kids who get dressed up in New Town. Every Halloween, the sidewalks are filled with many four-legged furry family members dressed in costumes, proudly parading alongside their families. From dachshunds dressed as hot dogs to golden retrievers donning superhero capes, these ‘fur babies’ add another layer of joy to the night. Many residents even set out water bowls or treats for the pets, making sure everyone —including the 'fur babies'—feels welcome. Of course, the heart of it all is the trick-or-treating. New Town has become such a popular destination that families from across St. Charles County, St. Louis County and beyond come to join the fun. Streets are filled with children in costumes ranging from princesses and superheroes to ghouls and goblins, running from house to house with smiles and overflowing candy buckets. The sheer number of participants means that traffic is often nearly at a standstill on Halloween night. Visitors line the streets with parked cars, and many families opt to walk in from surrounding areas just to be part of the experience. For a few hours each year, through traffic all but stops as the town becomes a pedestrian’s paradise. And that’s just fine with the residents, who know the tradition has grown far bigger than their own block. What makes Halloween in New Town so special isn’t just the decorations, costumes or candy. It’s the way the holiday brings people together. Neighbors collaborate, children laugh and play, pets strut in their finest attire and families from all over get a chance to be part of something larger than themselves. In an era where it’s easy to feel disconnected, Halloween in New Town is a reminder of the joy that comes from community, tradition and a shared love of celebration. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting for the night, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. REAL ESTATE R E A DY F O R H A L L O W E E N Photo by Stephen Cox 30 www.ntxconnect.com
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Bringing a business's online vision to life is both a science and an art. We sat down with the husband-andwife duo behind Great Page Web Design, Spencer and Libby Cope, to discuss the key to a compelling digital presence. From the power of a strong first impression to the essential role of consistency, they share their insights on what it takes to build a successful online brand. Q: For those unfamiliar, could you describe what Great Page Web Design specializes in? It’s all in the name. We specialize in designing beautiful and functional web pages. Your site has to tell your story and show your personality in those first few seconds. So, the whole package is really important. How quickly the page loads, your logo, your font choice, it all plays in. Q: You offer a wide range of services, from web design to SEO. How do these different services work together to help a business succeed? In the digital landscape, you need to make yourself known to your customer through multiple channels. Having a website and social media presence is your basic foundation for building trust. From there you can put yourself in your customer’s shoes and reach them through ads on various platforms. At the end of the day, success comes from being easy to find when your customer needs you most. Q: What does the initial consultation process look like for a new client? How do you tailor your approach to meet their specific needs? Our first step is always simple: listen. A lot of the initial consultation starts with getting to know your business, your customers and your personality. It’s all about getting to know your audience and who you are trying to reach. Each client and business we work with is very different and we love that. Q: In today’s competitive online landscape, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to a small business owner who is just starting to think about their digital presence? Be consistent. Do what you’re good at, and do it over and over. The businesses that win online aren’t always the flashiest — they’re the ones that show up day after day with a clear message. Marketing is really just a transfer of enthusiasm. If you’re excited about what you do and you show up consistently, that energy carries over to your customers. Q: Working with your spouse can be both challenging and rewarding. How did you two decide to go into business together? What’s the best part about being able to build a business with your partner? We’re both very driven, so from the start a lot of our time together was spent in co-working spaces, bouncing ideas back and forth. One of the first things Libby ever did was take my two-page résumé and cut it down to one. Honestly, I still don’t know how she did that, it had all the same information. That’s kind of our dynamic — she makes things clear and beautiful, I make them functional and scalable. The hardest part of working together is knowing when to turn it off, because work can sneak into every conversation. But the best part is simple: we get to make things we’re proud of together. Our skills and personalities complement each other so well, both at home and in business, that building Great Page was almost inevitable. For more information, call (314) 422-1198 or visit their website at greatpage.io. 6 BUSINESS Q&A 32 www.ntxconnect.com
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POINSETTIA SALES NT GARDEN CLUB Even though the transition to fall in Missouri has been evasive, switching from hot to cool to hot again, now’s the perfect time to set your sights on a classic winter tradition. Poinsettias are a gorgeous way to decorate for the Christmas season, with an explosion of color sure to add to the holiday cheer. And, as of September 19 the New Town Garden Club has officially begun their poinsettia sales for the upcoming winter season. Poinsettias will be available for purchase through the garden club until October 28. Orders can be picked up on Friday, December 5, any time from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the town hall in New Town. “These are, they're the queen of the poinsettias. I don't know how else to say, but they are just magnificent,” said Terri Steffes, who was in charge of poinsettia sales in 2023 and 2024. A regular-sized poinsettia costs $14 and a larger poinsettia costs $25, and they’re available in pink, red and white. Steffes said that in her opinion, even the regular-sized poinsettias are fairly big. Buying your poinsettias this way not only supports the New Town Garden Club, but also supports Parkview Gardens, the business that grows and provides the poinsettias. Parkview Gardens sees them all the way through, from seed until it’s time for order pick up. The Garden Club is in the process of becoming a 501(c) (3), and the poinsettia sales have helped give the club funding to do certain things. For example, it helped them afford to have a presence at the Fourth of July parade. The Garden Club also uses funds to do things like the Garden Tour, the Yard of the Month Award and educational projects. Last year, The Garden Club made $1,300 from the sales, and their goal for this year is to hit $2,000. To order your poinsettias, scan the QR code. NTxConnect September, 2025 37 By Ella Holt 34 www.ntxconnect.com
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APRIL GARDENING GUIDE: ESSENTIAL CHORES FOR ZONE 7 THIS SPRING NTxConnect October, 2025 35
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FALL FESTIVALS & HALLOWEEN ROUND UP Legends & Lanterns Festival Herman’s Farm Orchard Pumpkin Patch - Opens Oct. 1 Herman’s Farm Orchard has a variety of activities for the whole family. You’re able to pick your own pumpkins and apples, and their farmer’s market is full of locally grown produce. There are also free hayrides, a castle playground, pedal tractors and more. Admission is $5 per child, and free for adults and children under 2. St. Charles Legends & Lanterns - October 11-12, 18-19, 24-26 Legends & Lanterns is entering its 10th year of bringing Halloween history and fun to Historic Main Street. “Learn about 19th-century grieving customs at our Victorian Mourning Museum, get a festive sugar skull makeover at Plaza del Dia de los Muertos, write your own scary story with Edgar Allan Poe, enjoy the tunes of our fiddle playing Plague Doctor, or take a self-guided video tour of Main Street’s paranormal hotspots. This whimsical (and completely free) festival is sure to become a spooky yearly tradition for everyone in the family,” the Discover St. Charles website says. The event caters to people of all ages, and offers historical exhibits, character interactions and a plethora of fun events, with the added charm of Main Street as its backdrop. 36 www.ntxconnect.com
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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 Herman’s Farm Real Witches of New Town Pub Crawl - October 17 The Real Witches of New Town Pub Crawl is a fun, community event with a cause: the proceeds will benefit Paint New Town Pink, an advocacy organization that raises awareness and funds for area residents affected by breast cancer. The pub crawl is set to visit six venues in the area, and participants are encouraged to dress as witches as there will be a costume contest. It’s $20 to preregister and $25 the day of. More information about the event can be found on Facebook. Halloween Party with Trixie Delight at The Marquee - October 24 This event, open to those 21+ years of age, will include cocktails, Halloween treats and a costume contest with a cash prize. The event will be held at The Marquee, and there’s a limited number of tickets available. More information about the event can be found on Facebook. Open House and Pumpkin Drop at St. Charles County Regional Airport - Smartt Field - October 25 The St. Charles County Regional Airport–Smartt Field will be hosting an Open House and Pumpkin Drop event from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The pumpkin drop will begin at 10 a.m., and at noon the WWII B-25 Mitchell and TBM Avenger bombers will use pumpkins to “carpet bomb” a target. To sign up to participate in the pumpkin drop, call St. Charles Flying Service at (636) 946-6066. For a fee, you can also take a ride in a Warbird aircraft by contacting the Commemorative Air Force at (636) 250-4515. For more information, call Smartt Field at (636) 949-1893 or visit Facebook. Halloween Vehicle Parade at the St. Charles Christian Church - October 25 You’re invited to bring your golf cart, float, truck or car to participate in New Town’s Halloween Vehicle Parade. The event is free to participate in and starts at 1 p.m., and it’s requested that there be no candy throwing. Halloween Spooktacular - October 25 This event is calling all kids to dress up in their costumes and meet at the amphitheater at 1:30 p.m. to parade around to the tune of spooky Halloween music. Afterward, a chance to trick or treat around all the amazing businesses that have “Candy Stop” signs in their windows. Real Witches of New Town NTxConnect October, 2025 37
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Pumpkins on Main Street Trunk-or-treat Trunk-or-Treat at the Amphitheater - October 25 Residents are invited to New Town Amphitheater to participate in a Trunk or Treat event starting at 3 p.m. Decorate your golf cart or table to pass out candy. No motor vehicles allowed. To register, call or text Mary at (314) 704-8294. This event is being organized by Tim and Mary Stoinski. Halloween Party at The Boathouse (on the river) - October 25 The Boathouse invites you to join in on the Halloween fun by wearing your best costumes and enjoying their ambiance while listening to music by Plastic Kings. The night includes a costume contest with prizes for the best single, couple and group costumes. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON EACH EVENT, SCAN THE QR CODE BELOW. ntxconnect . F E S T I V A L S NTxConnect October, 2025 39
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101.7 FM ................................................................................................................ 1st Class Nannies & Nurses .................................................................................... Academy of The Sacred Heart ................................................................................ Autobahn Car Wash ............................................................................................... Brody Allen Exteriors ............................................................................................. Great Page ............................................................................................................. Integrated Health & Wellness ................................................................................. Kimberly Jewelers ................................................................................................. MJW Law Office ..................................................................................................... New Town Garden Club ......................................................................................... New Town Pickleball ............................................................................................. Next Mission Financial ........................................................................................... Pundmann Ford .................................................................................................... SCBS ...................................................................................................................... Studio Luebke ........................................................................................................ The Bridge Coffee .................................................................................................. The Dawning Firm ................................................................................................. 24 17 44 2 33 38 29 15 42 34 16 21 13 33 35 23 30 advertisers index . 42 www.ntxconnect.com