Chesterfield, MO August 2023

Kids & Pets

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Kids & Pets

Welcome to our highly anticipated Kids & Pets edition—a personal favorite among our team. This edition brings us immense joy as we celebrate the profound impact children and pets have on their families and communities. They truly embody the hope for a brighter tomorrow and form the bedrock of our society.

Children, with their inherent innocence, boundless curiosity, and limitless potential, possess the remarkable ability to shape the world in ways beyond our imagination. They represent our most significant investment and the fruits of our hardest work. In this edition, we're thrilled to showcase the "I Define Me Movement" on page 40, as well as the inspiring work of the Kidsmart Organization on page 34. These incredible initiatives are actively making a difference in our communities, empowering children to thrive.

And let's not forget our beloved pets! The companionship they offer is a transformative experience for both children and adults. Pets provide us with unwavering love and offer a nurturing environment for learning, growth and the development of essential life skills. The profound bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends cannot be ignored, as it fosters qualities such as empathy, responsibility and companionship. Don't miss the heartwarming story of Olive The Bulldog on page 30, as well as the remarkable work of Second Chance Ranch—a haven for senior pets looking for a loving home—on page 44.

While we recognize the immeasurable value of children, it is important to note that both children and pets rely on us. Our care, attention, and intention shape their upbringing and shape the individuals they become. We hope this issue serves as an inspiration, encouraging you to pour a little extra love and dedication into the children and pets in your life this month. Get ready to embark on a captivating journey into the world of Kids and Pets. We invite you to immerse yourself in the stories, insights and experiences shared within these pages. Let this edition kindle your enthusiasm, as we explore the indelible impact that children and pets have on our lives and the world around us.

Be Inspired,

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August 2023

PUBLISHERS

Gordon Montgomery gordon.montgomery@citylifestyle.com

Kelley Lamm kelley.lamm@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Casey Pierce | casey.pierce@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mel Boban, Julie Brown Patton, Robin Seaton Jefferson, Alana Fravell, Kelley Lamm

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Delaney Jean Photography, Elaine Collins, Julie Brown Patton, Casey Pierce

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

GORDON AND KELLEY, PUBLISHERS @CHESTERFIELDCITYLIFESTYLEMAG

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St. Louis Resident Crowned Miss Missouri

For the first time since the teen program started, a panel of judges crowned two sister queens as Miss Missouri’s Teen and Miss Missouri. Miss Southern Missouri Hayley Leach of St. Louis is the new Miss Missouri. Judges also crowned her sister queen, Gracyn Rouse, Miss Southern Missouri’s Teen as the new Miss Missouri’s Teen. The third Runner-Up for Miss Missouri was Miss Gateway Halie Hebron of O’Fallon. Hayley is preparing for Miss America.

Marquette High's Junior Achievement Team Ranks First In Entrepreneurial Competition

Five Rockwood School District teams competed in the Junior Achievement of Greater St. Louis' Spring Program Showcase, which is held to empower young entrepreneurs with successful economic skills. Chesterfieldbased Marquette High's STL Threads team earned first place. Rockwood Summit and Lafayette High teams finished second and third, respectively. This is a local chapter of the national nonprofit Junior Achievement.

Hospitals Receive All ‘A’ Grades For Safety

All major West St. Louis County hospitals received the highest possible grade of 'A' in the most recent Leapfrog Group's Hospital Safety Grade rating. Those hospitals are: Barnes Jewish West County Hospital, Mercy Hospital St. Louis, St. Luke's Hospital, Missouri Baptist Medical Center, SSM St. Clare Hospital-Fenton and St. Luke's Des Peres Hospital. These area hospitals are among the 29% of US hospitals to earn this top rating. Leapfrog researchers conduct this assessment twice yearly.

Region Businessman In Running For 2023 Entrepreneur Of Year

KAI Enterprises CEO Michael Kennedy, of St. Louis, was named an Ernst & Young LLP Entrepreneur Of The Year 2023 Heartland Award finalist. Now in its 37th year, Entrepreneur Of The Year is one of the pre-eminent competitive business awards for transformative entrepreneurs and leaders of highgrowth companies who're building a more equitable, sustainable and prosperous world for all. Michael was one of only 30 finalists out of a pool of more than 300 submissions.

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Hop To It

MEET DOLLY’S DREAM HOME RABBIT RESCUE

"Can we get a pet?" is a common question heard in houses who embody young children. Kids love the responsibility of caring for a cute, furry friend, and you may've considered a rabbit during negotiations with your children. How hard can it be to adopt an adorable, loving bunny? There's more to it than that! The team at Dolly's Dream Home, a foster-based nonprofit, are local experts when it comes to considering a rabbit.

Did you know bunnies and rabbits are the same thing? The term "bunny" often refers to young rabbits, or as a term of endearment for a pet rabbit. This article about Dolly's Dream Home Rabbit Rescue helps do a deeper-dive into owning rabbits as pets.

This rescue apparently was never meant to emerge, but after the team rescued a few local bunnies, they say the calls never stopped. Now, they get about 80 requests per week for dumped bunnies, meat bunnies and surrenders. There are basically zero laws or regulations regarding pet rabbits in Missouri, which is a huge problem.

If interested in visiting the team and meeting some potential pets, their rabbit supply storefront is called Dolly’s Dream Store in St. Charles at 494 South 5th St. Anyone is welcome to attend their bunny events, shop for supplies (all bunny safe). The store usually has one or two rabbits at a time, because they are entirely foster-based.

City Lifestyle asked Dolly’s Dream Home President and Founder Katie Kottmeyer and Dolly's rescue team to share enlightening details about the world of bunnies.

WHAT KIND OF MISCONCEPTIONS DO PEOPLE USUALLY HAVE ABOUT OWNING A RABBIT?

People usually think rabbits are OK to live in cages, but cages are too small and rabbits often experience variations of hind leg atrophy. We recommend a 4-by-4-foot minimum puppy pen.

RABBITS ARE SO CUTE! CAN ANYONE OWN ONE?

People think they’re easy starter pets, but in reality, they live 8 to 12 years. Not only this, but they’re technically exotic animals and only a few vets will see them. This is an expensive issue because demand for exotic vets is high, which drives up spay costs, but otherwise 80% of unspayed females get uterine cancer.

People also think you can release them outside into the wild when after caring for them. However, domestic European rabbits are actually an entirely different species than cottontails, like cats and dogs, and they absolutely cannot survive outside. We litterbox train all of our bunnies and they can even learn tricks, their names and more.

We highly recommend doing proper research first. They’re not pets for kids; they have 28 teeth, and bite to deglove. They’re fabulous pets IF you have the right education. This is why we offer a free virtual education course that anyone can sign up for at DollysDreamHome.org

WHAT KIND OF CHALLENGES COME WITH ADOPTING A RABBIT?

They’re fabulous family members, just not what we would consider a “starter pet." Our process is extremely efficient in terms of helping get set up and ready for a bunny. If you’re not sure a bunny is right for you, consider our foster-to-adopt program or hop over to our bunny blog, DollysDreamHome. org/Rabbit-Care-Information . Dolly and her husbun, Kenny Rogers, thank you!

To assist this rescue, consider shopping on the group's Chewy or Amazon Wish List. Donations accepted through Venmo and Cash App.  DollysDreamHomeRescue@gmail.com

DollysDreamHome.org

“This rescue was never meant to emerge, but after the team rescued a few local bunnies, the calls never stopped.”

PICKLEBALL POPULARITY

The Resurgence of A Dynamic Sport Sweeping Local Cities And Nationally

In recent years, a sport emerged that captured the hearts of both young and old, becoming a sensation in communities across the nation. Pickleball, once considered a well-kept secret among avid players, has experienced a remarkable resurgence, attracting enthusiasts of all ages to its courts.

Pickleball traces its roots back to the summer of 1965, when three dads, Joel Pritchard, Barney McCallum and Bill Bell, sought to create a new game that would entertain their families during a lazy afternoon on Bainbridge Island, Washington. Combining elements of badminton, tennis and table tennis, they crafted a unique sport played on a smaller court with solid paddles and a whiffle ball. The game's unusual name is said to have been derived from the Pritchards' dog, Pickles, who would chase after the errant balls and run off with them.

Over the years, pickleball gained a devoted following in retirement communities and recreation centers, but it wasn't until recently that its popularity exploded nationwide. The sport's accessibility, easy learning curve, and social nature have made it an instant hit, attracting players of all skill levels and ages.

UNDERSTANDING THE GAME:

Pickleball is played on a court divided into three sections: a non-volley zone (commonly known as the "kitchen"), a service area, and the remainder of the court. Two or four players engage in a fast-paced game, using solid paddles to hit a perforated polymer ball over a net. The objective is to outmaneuver opponents by strategically placing shots and preventing them from returning the ball.

The sport's simplified rules make it easy for beginners to grasp, yet its competitive nature offers seasoned players plenty of opportunities to showcase their skills. Pickleball provides a unique blend of physical activity, strategy and social interaction, making it a perfect choice for individuals and families seeking both recreation and camaraderie.

Local cities have recognized the growing popularity of pickleball by introducing dedicated courts for public use, both indoors and outdoors. It's time to get out with friends and embrace the thriving pickleball craze.

Check with local recreation centers, athletic clubs, local parks, colleges, sport centers and more for public use, team leagues, tournaments, and open play sessions to discover their pickleball offerings.

"PICKLEBALL PROVIDES A UNIQUE BLEND OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, STRATEGY AND SOCIAL INTERACTION, MAKING IT A PERFECT CHOICE FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES SEEKING BOTH RECREATION AND CAMARADERIE."

Yay For Sorbet!

RECIPE FOR SEASONAL SORBET TO SATISFY WHOLE FAMILY, GUESTS

Cold + sweet treats are naturally kidfriendly. Shop local farmers markets for tasty seasonal fruit to have on hand for an easy, crowd-pleasing treat: seasonal sorbet. When produce is at its peak, it’s usually the sweetest, most nutritionally dense, and most abundant (making it more affordable, too). The fresh produce season can be fleeting for items, such as watermelon and peaches, so why not take advantage of the short season? Buy extra and freeze. You’ll have the most delicious fruit at your fingertips and in your freezer, so you can enjoy the flavors of summer all yearlong. Bonus, this dessert is guilt free for serving kiddos because it uses little sugar and is nutritious as well as delicious!

Seasonal Sorbet

INGREDIENTS

• 3 cups fresh, frozen seasonal fruit, such as watermelon, peaches or strawberries

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1-3 tablespoons of local, raw honey or agave (depending on how sweet your fruit is naturally)

• Pinch of salt to enhance flavor

• ¼ cup of water or fruit juice, if needed

DIRECTIONS

Ahead of time: Chop the fruit in 1-inch evenly sized chunks, and freeze in a single layer on a cookie sheet to avoid clumping. Once frozen, store in an airtight container for later use.

When desiring to prepare, combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth. Add more liquid if needed to help blend smoothly and press down with a spatula to help the process along. Add more honey for a sweeter taste. Eat immediately for a softer texture, or transfer into a freezer-safe container and freeze for 3-4 hours or until firm. Also works for popsicle molds. Keeps for three months. This can be made days and weeks ahead of time. Serves 4.

Optional: Add in fresh mint, basil or thyme. Add a drop or two of a high-quality essential oil from doTERRA, such as lime, kumquat, lemon, cinnamon or rosemary, to add a layer of botanical flavor. Try a spice such as cardamom or cinnamon. Maybe your kids aren’t adventurous eaters; reserve these more complex flavors for an adult dinner party. Or, make a split batch.

Tip: Using fruit that’s already frozen results in a smoother, less icy sorbet. This also shortens setting time for the sorbet. Add in a little plant-based milk for a creamier variety.

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MEET THE AUTHOR

Alana is driven to help her community live their best lives. She can found at her garden center and produce market Sugar Grove Growers in Troy, Missouri, and on her blog sharing knowledge about plants, healthy cooking, mocktails, connecting with nature and self-care. She says she believes we all deserve to live a life of quality and can do that by being intentional about how we care for ourselves and spend our time. She guides others regarding how to simplify, scale back and grow in healthy, meaningful ways. She has upcoming virtual and in-person workshops through which to connect.

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‘Oh Olive’ New Children’s Book

Lifestyle Publisher Pens Book To Encourage Others To Marshal Courage Deep Within Themselves

Olive the Bulldog is a real-live, happy-go-lucky pup with a courageous spirit and a heart full of love, bringing joy to everyone she meets. She's also the subject of a new children's book titled Oh Olive. However, Olive has a secret to share with readers: She's terribly frightened of thunderstorms.

City Lifestyle Publisher Kelley G. Lamm authored the book, in honor of her beloved English Bulldog whose name is truly Olive. The story unfolds in New Town, the real community of Kelley and her Lifestyle co-publisher husband, Gordon Montgomery.

"Olive is so easy-going, but wow, when a thunderstorm moves in, she shakes and tries to hide anywhere she can," shares Kelley. "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."

Kelley says she hopes readers of the book will find, or reconnect with, their staying power and courage to face and overcome obstacles or threats. "In life, we all encounter stormy times—those moments when skies darken and challenges loom. It's during these

difficult moments we must remember Olive's lessons about summoning bravery to face our fears head-on and find solace in the fact that storms will pass."

KELLEY SUGGESTS THREE ESSENTIAL STEPS TO NAVIGATE THE STORMIEST TIMES WITH COURAGE AND GRACE:

1. Embrace the Olive within you. Tap into your playful soul and find joy in life's simple pleasures. Chase after passions with uncontainable excitement, and let your heart wag with joy. Remember that amidst challenges, there's always room for happiness.

2. Seek companionship on your journey. Surround yourself with love and friendship as pillars. Reach out to loved ones, seek their guidance, and offer your support in return. Together, we can weather any storm and emerge stronger.

3. Believe in your own fortitude. Each one of us possesses a wellspring of bravery deep within. When faced with adversity, tap into that reservoir of courage, and take that leap of faith. Trust in yourself, for you're capable of remarkable things.

Author Kelley with Olive

Pre-sales of Oh Olive, Oh No! A Thunderstorm! are scheduled to begin this September. The launch party is slated for Sept. 28. Look for the book’s online offering through Ingram Sparks/Amazon. For updates, email oholive@oholivethebulldog.com.

Living Analog In Digital World

“It’s Time To Rethink How We Use Devices,” Implores Leader In Guarded Approach Toward Technology

Digital minimalism is the way forward, declares Olivia Orman, founder/CEO of Livin’ Analog. She also works in tandem with the local company Publishing Concepts, LLC.

Olivia initiated a personal and professional development project in St. Louis to provide resources for corporations, entrepreneurs and backward-looking thinkers curious about more analog ways of approaching life. She poses, "While digital tools can increase connection and productivity, many individuals are finding it’s diminishing human experiences, such as conversation, practicing hobbies and living in the present moment."

She adds the project goal is to clearly define what roles technology has in achieving specific objectives. Outside of those functions, she encourages people to live more analog while coexisting in a digital world.

Rather than be tethered to electronic devices, Olivia lists her favorite device-free activities as reading, writing,

kayaking, hiking, biking, rock climbing, walking, yoga, exploring, traveling, playing musical instruments, writing music, innovating and painting.

"On a societal level, we have an addiction on our hands, so it's time to rethink how we're using our electronic devices," Olivia states.

When people depend on smartphones, she says it can really impact their productivity, creativity, critical thinking skills and communications. "It's better to set boundaries for electronic tools, assigning them to just task-specific roles."

This fall, Olivia plans to assist others' transformations to digital minimalism by hosting the first Livin’ Analog Day Retreat, an entirely phone-free event. Consult her website for resources.

LivinAnalog.com

“Living in the present and being able to analyze what’s truly going on in your mind, rather than glued to a cellphone, are just two of many benefits gained from living more analog.”

EMPOWERING CHILDREN IN NEED TO SUCCEED

KIDSMART

Jennifer says people often don’t realize that kids in their own local communities start school without the most basic supplies. “Equipping kids with tools for learning provides them equity and the opportunity to access education,” she says. “We’ve proven we can come together and make a difference.”

That proof is in the success stories KidSmart has witnessed. “There are thousands of stories of success,” Jennifer says. Like the fifth grader in the Riverview Gardens School District who wrote a thank you note: “I’ve always been that kid—the kid who starts school without school supplies. My mom wanted to afford school supplies, but she just couldn’t. KidSmart made me not be ‘that kid’ anymore.”

“He [that kid] is an attorney today,” says Jennifer.

KidSmart's doors were opened in 2002. Now more than two decades later, the Maryland Heights nonprofit helps kids in some 4,500 classrooms in 17 school districts within the St. Louis area.

“Each year, there are 90,000 kids in the St. Louis area whose families live at or below the poverty level and who attend schools in our highest poverty neighborhoods. That’s enough kids to fill Busch Stadium, twice. These kids have the ability and desire to learn, they simply cannot afford the critical school supplies,” says KidSmart Founder and CEO Jennifer Miller. “Throughout each year, KidSmart provides educational resources for tens of thousands of these students.”

In its 21-year history, KidSmart has distributed more than $85 million in free school supplies to the kids who need it most in the St. Louis area. “This is a communitywide issue. With a communitywide effort, we create a communitywide impact. These children are our future employees, our future consumers. By supporting them, we lift up our entire community, in the future.”

THE FOLLOWING ARE JUST A FEW OF THE WAYS KIDSMART EQUIPS KIDS:

• The KidSmart Free Store: The only free, educational supply store in Missouri.

• Free Store on the Go!: The KidSmart On the Go! truck takes services on the road, delivering essential supplies directly to students and into classrooms.

• Push for Pencils, Push for Change: The largest school supply drive in Missouri, rallying the support of employees and businesses across the St. Louis area and collecting more than 500,000 brand new school supplies at its community drop-off locations each year. Just $25 equips a student with $125 in free school supplies for back to school.

• Crafts with Conviction: Partnering with the Missouri Department of Corrections, each school year since 2002, more than 1,000 offenders in Missouri correctional facilities donate 500,000-plus hours of their time to create educational and learning materials for the students KidSmart serves.

• Annual Giving Club: Members provide a class with a set of free school supplies to equip 100 percent of the students in a high poverty classroom.

• Head of the Class Society: An exclusive donor circle at $1,000 and higher, provides the foundation of annual support that enables KidSmart to deliver a five-times annual ROI.

• KidSmart Gift of Heart Volunteers are always needed to sort donated supplies, inventory products and help with special events and mailing projects.

• Individuals or companies may host supply drives, sponsor a school, a classroom or a student, or host an event or party to raise important funding.

“It’s a need that is year-round,” Jennifer says. “So many educational resources are consumable. You may have leftover items from your own event, such as paint, paper, art supplies, staplers, pens, pencils or T-shirts. Anything may be utilized by teachers and students to equip them to learn. If they’re branded, that’s fine, too. It lets kids know there are companies who believe in them, and places where they may possibly work someday. There's a place for everyone at KidSmart, and the payoff for kids, for our community, is big.”

314.291.6211

KidSmartSTL.org

Empowering Children

INSPIRING KIDS THROUGH LIFE LESSON BOOKS TO BE ALL THEY WANT TO BE

Children who envision their future aspirations and careers in their minds now can also physically see themselves in those roles via customized books and digital prints created by local mass communications producer Moses Ukoh. He turns customer-submitted photos of children's faces,  from looking directly into a camera, into pieces that depict them as self-selected characters, such as firemen, hairstylists, astronauts, nurses, teachers, scientists, pilots, musicians, U.S. presidents or even superheroes.

"I've always been interested in helping to mentor kids, and wanted to come up with a way for them to truly cast their visions for their authentic selves," he shares, adding that he was heartened by his mother formerly operating a personalized book cart in Union Station.

He says he personally practices meditation, and that this publishing idea crystallized one day after he had subconsciously been considering how to formulate e-books to uplift others, especially children.

Moses currently takes orders through the online Etsy platform, for which his page can be found at  Etsy.com/shop/InspirationalObjects His softcover books cost $39.99, and they arrive at customers' homes in approximately a week. Hardcovers are scheduled to arrive to customers within two weeks, and they cost $49.99. His books ship for free within the United States.

He also applies his experience in digital communications and videography to this 'Inspirational Objects' publishing project by producing personalized, motivational books, such as how to deal with bullies. He adds that a direct message to recipients can be added.

"Whatever gift your child has, teach them to express it no matter what the naysayers say or do, through heartfelt books composed to teach helpful lessons," suggests Moses.

To discuss possibilities or pose questions, email inspirationalobjects@gmail.com.

I Define ME Movement:

"We are keepers to our dreams," says Tracie Berry-McGhee, founder of St. Louis-headquartered 'I Define ME' in 2002. "We focus on wellness, opportunities, knowledge and empowerment. IDM aspires to help women establish their own identities and walk in purpose."

Also as a licensed therapist, speaker, author, talk-show host, empowernista and St. Louis native Tracie, M.Ed., LPC, says she lives by the philosophy: "I am unique, I am we, I represent unity, I am diversity, a mosaic of people live in me."

In essence, the goal of this movement is for girls, especially girls aged 8 to 18 years, to nurture inner awareness, find their purpose, and realize the value of defining their voices.

As a speaker, Tracie addresses topics, such as girl empowerment, girl bullying, mental health and parental tips. She also founded a nonprofit named SistaKeeper to support and inspire teens, with an empowerment center based in Florissant. IDM also provides a wellness mobile tour van that travels to schools, libraries, special events, churches or community centers to offer Keeper Kits, journals, personal hygiene items, shirts, books and products made by girls for girls (sometimes through pop-up shops).

WHERE GIRLS AND WOMEN DEFINE THEIR PURPOSE LOCALLY, NATIONALLY AND GLOBALLY

Stemming from the following statistics, Tracie says she saw the need for surrounding girls and young women with tools for maximizing self-confidence:

• 74% of girls say they're under pressure to please everyone (Girls Inc., The SuperGirl Dilemma).

• 98% of girls feel there's an immense pressure from external sources to look a certain way (National Report On Self-Esteem).

• 92% of teen girls would like to change something about the way they look, with body weight ranking the highest (Dove Campaign).

• 90% of eating disorders are found in girls (National Association For Self-Esteem).

• 1 in 4 girls fall into a clinical diagnosis: depression, eating disorders and other mental/emotional disorders. Furthermore, many more report being constantly anxious, sleep deprived and under significant pressure. (The Triple Bind, Steven Hinshaw)

Locally, IDM school-based programs include: Parkway School District; Ladue Middle School; Hazelwood School District; St. Louis Catholic Academy; Marian Middle School; Ferguson-Florissant R-II School District; and Mehlville R-IX School District.

Growing up in Tracie's community, she recalls often not having all the resources she needed to thrive. "As a Black girl, I dealt with bullying about my hair and my lips. Now we teach girls the power of financial security, social media representation and becoming an overall positive individual in the community," she shares.

idefinememovement@gmail.com

314.602.8729

Text IDM to 22999

NIAGroupSTL.com

“Staff and supporters of the I Define ME organization have impacted more than 25,000 girls in positive, long-lasting ways over the past 20 years. To date, 22 local schools, 31 national IDM school chapters and presences in six countries were assisted and encouraged, while increasing self-esteem, literacy, decreasing relational aggression, bullying and giving girls and women a safe space to define wellness. Women and girls share their stories, and define their voices to help shape the world mentally, physically, spiritually, financially and emotionally.” ~Tracie McGhee

Sanctuary For Adoptable Senior Dogs, Cats

"Old dogs, like old shoes, are comfortable. They might be a little out of shape and a little worn around the edges, but they fit well," imparts Bennie Wilcox. A certain set of local people would agree, for on a daily basis they honor muzzles that are a bit whiter and aged angelic faces that can purr their way out of anything, all while offering hearts full of love and gratitude. Admirably, all of this group's nurturing and care is accomplished through volunteers.

Second Chance Ranch, the St. Louis region's first organized hospice sanctuary for dogs and cats in their senior stage of life, was founded by Tracy Rumpf on July 18, 2021. It's located in Valley Park at a renovated early 20th century farmhouse.

As a 501(c)(3) supported solely through public donations, Tracy says the ranch team is able to provide a loving home, food, veterinary care and medications to pets who have nowhere else to reside, all due to generous donors.

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE THE SWEET SOUL OF AN OLDER CANINE OR FELINE

The majority of animals who arrive at the ranch are due to their owners relocating or dying, leaving pets with no homes. They're also comprised of animals picked over in shelters and were saved from euthanasia, or rescued from dangerous situations. "We're committed to helping and being a voice for the most needy, most vulnerable canines and felines among our communities. We're dedicated to creating a loving home for senior dogs and cats who also are homeless or sick, and we strive to make the rest of their life the best of their life," Tracy says.

In general, a dog is considered a senior, based on their breed and size. Small dogs are viewed as senior citizens of the canine world typically when they reach 11-12 years of age. Their medium-sized friends become seniors at 10 years of age. Their larger-sized colleagues are seniors at 8 years of age. And, finally, their giant-breed counterparts are seniors at 7 years old.

Likewise for cats, they're considered by veterinarians to be a senior, or deemed geriatric, by the time they reach 10 to 11 years old. If a cat lives beyond 15 years of age, they're often referenced as being a "super-senior."

Tracy emphasizes that older dogs and cats, throughout all adoption sources, get adopted at a much lower rate than younger dogs. When these animals should be enjoying their golden years, instead they spend their days in a shelter, up to four times as long as a younger dog.

"Dogs grieve. They love, feel, care, are happy and sad. There are people in this world who don't understand this; the ones who surrender their 17-year-old dog because he sleeps too much, or the family who wants to make room for the Christmas puppy, so they surrender their senior dog," states Tracy. "We need to be their voice. What we do at the ranch is validate their feelings, and value them as a living being with feelings. Every one of our dogs deserve to know they are worthy."

Note that senior dogs are capable and often eager to learn new things. Additionally, older dogs tend to bond quicker because they know how to get along with others. Furthermore, senior pets don't require the constant monitoring and training that puppies and kittens do. Many are already housetrained

Because senior pets are fully grown, adoptive pet parents are immediately aware of important information, such as personality type, grooming requirements and perhaps medical history, making it easier to choose the perfect pet for each family.

Since launching, the ranch has hosted or fostered 279 pets, and adopted out about 80%. Tracy says the other 20% typically are on hospice and will spend the rest of their lives at the ranch, being coddled and reassured that they are cherished.

"The ranch is a two-story, and we used to keep the little-sized dogs upstairs and the bigs on the main floor. But we just added 1,400 square feet so we can maintain all the dogs on

Second Chance Ranch is operated by volunteers who love senior dogs and cats, and are committed to care for the animals until they take their last breaths. It’s also a self-funded, forever home for discarded animals.

the first floor, with the upstairs becoming a quarantine area or for animals being treated for more serious medical needs," Tracy says.

Additionally, an animal acupuncturist performs services for arthritic dogs each Sunday at the ranch.

This sanctuary actually was a natural outgrowth from a prior initiative. Previously, Tracy co-founded The Wet Nose Project about five years ago, which still serves as a foundation to raise money to help pay for life-saving veterinary medical or surgery bills for vulnerable, rescued dogs and cats who are pulled from animal control or abandoned when their owner must enter assisted-living accommodations.

"We also teamed up with Aging Ahead's Meals on Wheels to donate pet food for seniors' pets on fixed or lacking incomes. It's called Whiskers On Wheels, and we provide thousands of pounds of food," she says.

Ranch volunteers are needed, confirms Tracy, even if to just be on a standby list for the 80-ish mainstay volunteers. "Those who can only do mornings, evenings or certain days of the week also are welcome."

To adopt, see the ranch's Facebook page, then call to set a time to meet a potential match. The ranch requires appointments because it's a true home-away-from-home for the dog residents and the felines in the three cat condos. The dogs are not crated or paneled. They enjoy soft music playing and TV shows. "It's their home, and we're just here to serve them!" exclaims Tracy.

Second Chance Rescue: 636.517.1013

SecondChanceRanchSTL.org

WetNoseProject.org

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

AUGUST 5TH

Rubber Ducky Race

CHESTERFIELD FAMILY

AQUATIC CENTER | 10:00 AM

Cheer on your personal ducks as they zip around the lazy river. The first 20 ducks to cross the finish line by 11 a.m. win. All summer long, stop by the Chesterfield Family Aquatic Center front desk to adopt ducks. Cost is $5 per duck, or there's a Quack Pack of six for $25. See  Chesterfield. mo.us/Rubber-Duck-Race.html .

AUGUST 9TH

Movies Under The Stars: Super Mario Bros. Movie

CHESTERFIELD

AMPHITHEATER | 6:30 PM

The Super Mario Bros. Movie is a 2023 American computer-animated adventure film based on Nintendo's Mario video game franchise. Join an epic viewing experience as this free movie will be played on the roof of the amphitheater with laser projection technology. Movie begins at dusk. Schedule food trucks are Chick-Fil-A; Ramblin' Rounds; Kona Ice; and Classic Red Hots.

AUGUST 10TH

Concert: Kip Moore Plus The Cadillac Three And Ben Burgess

CHESTERFIELD

AMPHITHEATER | 5:30 PM

Kip Moore is an American country music singer and songwriter. The Cadillac Three is an American rock band. Seating: Pit — Standing Room Only; Reserved -- Stadium Seat; Terrace — Provided Fixed Seat; General Admission — Lawn and chairs

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and blankets allowed. Food trucks scheduled are Chick-Fil-A; SNS Goodies; Ramblin' Rounds; and Mr. Papa's 2 Go.

AUGUST 12TH

King Of Pain Concert: A Tribute To Sting & The Police; Drew Sheafor

CHESTERFIELD

AMPHITHEATER | 6:00 PM

The Sounds of Summer Concert Series is free to attend. No ticket is required, however all guests will still go through the security checkpoint. Guests are welcome to bring in their own snacks (no full meals) and alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages (no glass). Food

Trucks slated are Theo's Gyros; ChickFil-A; and Ramblin' Rounds.

AUGUST 16TH

Eatwell Market Grocery Store Tour

EATWELL MARKET

Take a tour with St. Luke Hospital's dietitian. Learn tips on finding and choosing healthier food choices when grocery shopping, how to read a food label and sampling new foods. Attendees will receive samples and a $10 gift card to use at Eatwell Market to practice new skills. Space is limited and registration is required. Registration ($5) is nonrefundable.

AUGUST 18TH

Concert: Blues Traveler

And Big Head Todd & The Monsters

CHESTERFIELD

AMPHITHEATER | 6:30 PM

Blue Monsters Tour. Seating:  PitStanding Room Only; Reserved - Stadium Seat; Terrace - Provided Fixed Seat; GA Lawn - Chairs and Blankets Allowed. Food Trucks planned are Chick-Fil-A; Ramblin' Rounds; SNS Goodies; and Theo's Gyros. CONTINUED >

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AUGUST 25TH

Clint Black Concert

CHESTERFIELD

AMPHITHEATER | 6:00 PM

Clint Black is an American country music singer, songwriter, musician, actor and record producer. Signed to RCA Nashville in 1989, his debut album "Killin' Time" produced four straight No. 1 singles on the US Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks charts. He holds 22 No. 1 singles and 31 Top 10s. Food trucks are ChickFil-A and Theo's Gyros.

AUGUST 26TH-27TH

Faust Village Open House

FAUST PARK/CHESTERFIELD

| 12:00 PM

Faust Park is home to many local structures rescued from destruction by real estate development. Visitors to Faust Historic Village may tour the 1850s Conway house with its period herb garden and outdoor kitchen, the circa 1848 Metz log home, and the 1880s Hoch House for free. Many homes will be staffed with volunteer docents in period dress.

AUGUST 26TH

Big Love: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac

At Backstoppalooza

CHESTERFIELD

AMPHITHEATER | 6:00 PM

All of the proceeds from Backstoppalooza (food and beverage sales) support Backstoppers (excluding production and band costs). Donations to Backstoppers are encouraged and collected at the event. The Sounds of Summer Concert Series is free to attend. No ticket is required. Guests are welcome to bring in their own snacks (no full meals) and alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages (no glass).

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