Parkland, MO December 2025

WHERE YOUR PATH TO HEALING BEGINS

At Caring Wounds Unlimited, we believe that healing is more than just treating a wound—it’s caring for the whole person. Our team provides advanced wound care using the latest techniques and technologies, all within a compassionate and comfortable environment. Every patient receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs, ensuring the best possible outcomes and a faster path to recovery. Every patient receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs, ensuring the best possible outcomes and a faster path to recovery

Your healing is our priority — because you deserve care that goes beyond the surface.

PERSONAL. PROFESSIONAL. PROVEN.

Parkland’s Season of Giving

This holiday season, Parkland City Lifestyle invites you to join Parkland’s Season of Giving — a community initiative to bring joy, warmth, and hope to families across the Parkland who need it most.

WAYS TO GET INVOLVED

Drop off donations like toys, shoes, clothing, and hygiene products at the following Parkland businesses

Together we can make the season brighter.

Know someone who could use a little extra love this Christmas? Scan the code to nominate them for Parkland’s Season of Giving.

Holidays & Giving

The holiday season is here, bringing with it the sights, sounds, and traditions that make this time of year so magical. For many of us, the holidays are a chance to recreate the joy we felt as children, whether it’s through the twinkle of festive lights, the aroma of holiday baking, or cherished family traditions.

In my family, one tradition we’ve held onto is baking Christmas cookies with my mother. This family past time is now a multi-generational event that includes my sons, bringing 3 generations together in one kitchen. My boys take pride in giving their tasty creations away to be enjoyed by many. It’s these moments that remind me of the magic of the season and the joyful memories made with loved ones help remind us of the importance of giving.

This month, we’ve highlighted charities and organizations that make it their top priority to give; to honor those of us that are in need, locally and globally. We’ve also highlighted the best of what The Parkland has to offer during the holidays, from events and entertainment to opportunities for giving back, including our Season of Giving campaign. The PCL team wants to personally reach the hearts of our community, who continue to touch ours with their amazing stories. On the previous page you’ll find details on how you too can help us reach Parkland families and make a difference.

While this season is joyful for many, it can also be a difficult time for those who are grieving, lonely, or in need. In the spirit of the season, let’s come together as a community to extend kindness and compassion to those who may be struggling. Whether it’s donating to a local charity, volunteering your time, or simply checking in on a neighbor, every act of generosity makes a difference.

May your holidays be filled with love, peace, and the joy of giving.

Happy Holidays,

LENA JOHNSON, PUBLISHER @PARKLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Lena Johnson | Lena.Johnson@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Kayle Nephew | kayle.nephew@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Stephanie Zaricor | stephaniezaricor@gmail.com

STAFF WRITER

Amy Tinnin | amy@acupfullofsass.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ashley Turner, Amanda Durbin

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Proverbs 3:5-6

scene

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Matt Crabtree Earns Missouri Certified Economic Developer Credential

Congratulations to Matt Crabtree, CFP®, President and CEO of the Bonne Terre Chamber of Commerce, on earning his Missouri Certified Economic Developer (MoCED) credential. This prestigious recognition from the Missouri Economic Development Council highlights Matt’s dedication to fostering growth, supporting local businesses, and advancing community development throughout Bonne Terre and the greater Parkland region.

Ozark Mountain Clinic Celebrates Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

The Farmington Regional Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a ribbon cutting for Ozark Mountain Clinic, now open at 715 Maple Valley Drive in Farmington. Led by Dr. Bruce Harrison, Michelle Allen, FNP-BC, and Whitney Jones, FNP-BC, the clinic is now accepting patients and offering primary care, walk-in visits, DOT physicals, and more—providing accessible, quality healthcare with extended hours to better serve the community.

Page Pilates Opens New Location in Farmington

Page Pilates is officially expanding to Farmington with a new studio located at 140 N. Washington Street. Dedicated exclusively to contemporary Reformer Pilates, the studio offers a welcoming space where community thrives and wellness is prioritized. Each 50-minute class focuses on strength, stability, and stretch. Designed to help you feel your best, inside and out. Reservations required—sign up at pagepilates.com or through the MindBody app.

Doing what the other guys have forgotten,

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Locally Owned & Family Operated

Reliable & Dependable Service

Commercial and residential waste removal at affordable prices.

Follow the

to learn more of his

Jackson’s Journey Foundation started in 2022 when Daniel Wood learned of his son’s Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia diagnosis.

This 100% non-for-profit organization aims to support all children affected by cancer and also provide financial support to our local families fighting this battle. The Woods family donates thousands of toys to St. Louis Children’s hospital to help put a smile on these brave little faces. You can help too, by donating toys to this amazing cause.

Giving Back THE GIFT OF

ARTICLE BY KAYLE NEPHEW PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE ZARICOR

When retired police officer George Cobb started St. Francois County’s Shop With a Cop program back in 1992, his goal was simple—to show children that police officers are the good guys. That they’re helpers, protectors, and people they can turn to when the world feels unkind.

What began with a few deputies and 56 children has grown into one of the largest Shop With a Cop programs in the nation, serving around 630 children throughout the Parkland. Entirely powered by community donations, the program raises around $100,000 each year through fundraisers, raffles, and local partnerships. Every dollar stays right here in St. Francois County, directly impacting local children and families.

The morning of the event feels like something out of a storybook. As buses roll into Walmart, red-and-blue lights reflect off the frosty pavement. Officers and first responders line the sidewalk in Santa hats and bright smiles, their breath visible in the cold morning air as they anxiously await their arrival.

Children step off the bus with shy grins, some clutching their coat sleeves, unsure of what to expect. Many have never been inside a store with money of their own. Others have never had the chance to pick something new, something just for them.

"Many of these kids come from broken homes and single-parent families where the only interactions they have had with law enforcement were not positive ones," explains Lora Henson, Program Coordinator and President of the St. Francois County Sheriff’s Association. "We want them to see the human side of police officers. We want them to know that they can run to us rather than from us."

Each child is paired with an officer and given $125 tax-free to spend on gifts. They carry folded lists, scribbled in uneven handwriting, often listing items for mom, dad, and siblings before ever mentioning themselves. When officers urge them to choose something special, many hesitate—because they’re not used to being told “yes.”

"It’s tear-jerking and gut-wrenching to see these kids in the shape they’re in, living in the greatest nation in the world," Lora

says quietly. "They didn’t ask to be born into poverty, and it’s not their fault. Someday they’ll make their mark. Pray, with our help, it will be a positive one."

Sheriff Jeff Crites still remembers one little girl who changed his heart forever. “She wanted to buy a church dress,” he recalls softly with tears in his eyes. “Not toys or electronics…a dress for Sunday service. That moment humbled me, and reminded me of the true reason this program was started.”

Scenes like that unfold everywhere you look: an officer kneeling to help tie a child’s shoes, a firefighter crouched low so a little boy can whisper which toy is for his baby sister, a deputy quietly covering the few dollars a total went over without saying a word. Walmart associates wipe away tears as they help the process run smoothly, knowing they’ve witnessed something good in its purest form.

For a few hours each December, the uniforms and badges fade into something softer. The distance between law enforcement and community disappears. The store becomes a space filled with hope, laughter, and a kind of peace that feels holy.

For some children, it’s the first time they’ve ever shared a hug with a police officer. For others, it’s the first time they’ve felt seen, valued, or safe in the presence of authority. These moments plant

seeds of trust that can last a lifetime, showing that the people behind the badge are also mentors, neighbors, and friends.

"Shop With a Cop is a group effort by caring people," Lora says. "We at the St. Francois County Sheriff’s Department are proud of what it has become."

And when the last bus pulls away and the lights stop flashing, the silence that follows is heavy, but full. Officers linger, smiling through tears, knowing the difference they made that morning may be small to some, but everything to someone else.

What happens here isn’t about toys or totals. It’s about restoring a child’s sense of worth. It’s a quiet promise that even in the hardest seasons, when life feels unfair and heavy, love still wins. It’s proof that hope doesn’t always come wrapped in paper and ribbon. Sometimes it wears a uniform and whispers the words every heart needs to hear: you matter.

To learn more about St. Francois County’s Shop With a Cop program or to make a donation toward next year’s event, visit sfcgov. org/sheriff/shop-with-a-cop

Because here in St. Francois County, giving isn’t just something we do during the holidays.

It’s who we are—and who we’ll always be.

YOUR LOCAL ROOFING COMPANY

BASED OUT OF HERCULANEUM,

MISSOURI.

Residential & Commercial Roofing

We also have expertise in managing the totality of insurance claims, which means less of a headache for the homeowners!

Eric has been in the roofing/construction industry his entire life, with both sons (Luke and Jake) following suit. Mandy serves as the main point of contact and with her 20+ years of experience within the industry, is always willing to assist our customers with questions concerning each step of our work.

Greenstreet Roofing & Exteriors takes pride in being a “true” local company. Not just as business owners but also as a family we enjoy supporting our community by sponsoring school activities/sport teams, eating/shopping local and referring local businesses when given the opportunity. We know that the first line of defense between your home and the harsh elements is your roof. We look forward to helping you protect your biggest investment.

At Heartland Hearing Care, we believe life is richer when you can hear every moment.

Our owner, Kelli Kernan, has dedicated her career to helping people hear better, earning her Hearing Instrument Specialist license and National Board Certification.

With locations in St. Francois County, Jefferson County, St. Louis County, and St. Charles County, our clinics are committed to helping you hear your best at any stage of life— delivering personalized care with the latest, most advanced hearing solutions.

Introducing Starkey’s Omega AI – Designed to restore the normal sense of hearing closer than any technology of its kind!

• Waterproof,* sweatproof, and everyday-proof

• Up to 51 hours of battery life**

• Includes the world’s first Balance Builder and Respiratory Rate monitoring features - all in one device

US Tool Bridges the Gap

HOW THE INDUSTRY & EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP GIVES STUDENTS A PATHWAY TO PURPOSE

Nearly a decade ago, leaders at US Tool Group realized something was missing—not in their business, but in their community. Local students were graduating without ever discovering the kinds of hands-on careers being built right in their own backyard.

That epiphany became the starting point for something extraordinary.

Tony Myers and Plant Manager Denny Bouse began asking deeper questions—Where do these skills come from? Why aren’t students exposed to them sooner? They quickly realized the gap between education and industry wasn’t intentional. It was simply a bridge that hadn’t yet been built.

Once they recognized the gap, they felt a responsibility to close it, for the students, and for the future of their community.

Together with Bruce and Brent Williams, Jamie Vinson, and other community leaders, they picked up the phone. They called every superintendent, chamber director, and business leader in the county. They invited them to breakfast at US Tool. Not to make a pitch, but to start a conversation.

That morning, something powerful happened. Education met industry across the same table, and instead of competing for talent, they began talking about creating opportunity.

Out of that spirit of collaboration, the Industry & Education Partnership was born — a regional alliance dedicated to equipping students with real-world skills, confidence, and the chance to build their future right here at home.

At the time, not a single local district offered an industrial or technical program. Today, every one of them do.

Through the Partnership, schools now share curriculum, resources, and equipment. Teachers spend their summers in paid externships, learning side-byside with industry professionals and returning to their classrooms with hands-on knowledge. Students tour facilities, shadow skilled workers, and experience what modern manufacturing and technology look like beyond the classroom walls.

And the opportunities keep growing. This spring, the Partnership will host its sixth round of school tours, welcoming hundreds of students to explore local businesses, ask questions, and imagine themselves in those spaces. Volunteers from across the region will lead the tours, donating their time and insight to help students see that success doesn’t have to mean leaving home.

The Partnership is also expanding into technology. Following a recent meeting, US Tool announced a new IT internship program, connecting students with hands-on roles that provide real-world experience in equipment setup and maintenance. It’s another example of how the Partnership continues to evolve — meeting students where they are, and meeting the workforce where it’s headed.

The results speak for themselves.

One young woman came to US Tool as an intern, uncertain about her future and unsure of where she fit. When she realized that production work wasn’t her calling, the team didn’t let her fade into the background. Instead, they moved her to a different department. There, she discovered a passion for design that changed her path entirely, and today, she’s pursuing a degree in graphic design.

Another student, Bailey, found his start through the program. He learned a trade, built his confidence, and

“This partnership isn’t just about teaching skills, it’s about opening eyes, building confidence, and reminding students that their future is worth investing in.” - Bruce Williams

eventually opened his own business — proof that when students are given opportunity and guidance, they don’t just find jobs; they find direction.

These are more than success stories. They’re proof that when young people are given exposure, mentorship, and a chance to grow, they discover what they’re made of.

“We’ve gotten a few great workers out of this program, but that’s not why we do it. We do it because every kid deserves the chance to find their purpose. Because when we invest in them, we invest in all of us.”

The ripple effect has reached far beyond the Parkland. Neighboring Jefferson County has developed its own version of the model. Fredericktown created an Industrial Development Authority and Chamber of Commerce inspired by it. And once only a dream, the Mineral Area College Technical Education Building now stands as a symbol of what’s possible when vision and generosity align.

“When collaboration replaces competition, students don’t just dream of a future—they start creating it.”

At the heart of it all stands US Tool, leading not because they have to, but because they believe they should. Under CEO Bruce Williams, the company has purchased equipment, laptops, and supplies for area schools. They host student tours, career fairs, and community drives that support families, foster children, and employees in need. Inside their walls, giving has become a way of life: chili cook-offs that fund Christmas gifts, and raffles that raise money for backpacks and school supplies. Because for US Tool, giving back isn’t a campaign. It’s culture.

The Industry & Education Partnership began with a single conversation and grew into a movement that reshaped how this region prepares its youth for the future. It’s living proof that the greatest impact doesn’t come from what we keep, but from what we choose to give.

Joy to the World Joy to the World

Every good and perfect gift is from above. Every good and perfect gift is from above.

Wishing you the blessings of pea e, joy, and love this Christmas season We are forever than ful for the trust and support you ve sho n us throughout the year May Christ s light shine upon your home today and al ays

Wishing you the blessings of peace, joy, and love this Christmas season. We are forever thankful for the trust and support you’ve shown us throughout the year. May Christ’s light shine upon your home today and always.

With Love, The Wideman Pools Family

Creating a Hot Cocoa Bar is the perfect way to bring a little holiday magic into your home. This setup is perfect for indoor winter days, and it’s actually quite easy! Perfect for large gatherings, or just because -- creating memories like this, is what the season is all about.

1. Start with what you own: Grab a tray, cake stand, or serving board to create a little station. I used pieces I already had—glass jars, mugs, and small bowls. Mixing different heights makes it look extra inviting.

2. Cocoa Mix: Use your favorite mix or make a simple homemade version.

3. Fun toppings: Fill jars or bowls with marshmallows, crushed candy canes, chocolate chips, flavored syrups, sprinkles, or chocolate-dipped spoons to make it feel like a treat. Kids love piling on their favorites.

4. Decorate with festive décor: Add a strand of fairy lights, greenery, peppermint sticks, and or Christmas ornaments. Add a Hot Cocoa sign and decorative disposable cups or mugs. I found a lot of my items at Hobby Lobby.

5. An extra festive touch: I had custom cookies made by Sugar Sugar by Julie Henson—they were adorable and made the whole setup feel extra personal. It’s one of those simple ideas that brings everyone together and makes the season feel a little more magical.

THE LIVING WELL PROJECT

ARTICLE BY KAYLE NEPHEW | PHOTOGRAPHY

BY STEPHANIE ZARICOR, AMANDA DURBIN

DEEP TO LIVE WELL

Across the globe, about 2.2 billion people still live without access to safely-managed water services; meaning water that is on-premises, available when needed, and free from contamination. In many remote villages, families walk miles each day to fetch water from streams, puddles, or hand-dug holes in the ground – water that is often contaminated and dangerous. This crisis doesn’t just impact health. It robs children of education, women of opportunity, and entire communities of hope. For Ashley Grindstaff and her family, that reality became impossible to ignore.

The first time Ashley set foot in Kenya, it didn’t just change her life, it transformed her perspective forever. In 2020, she traveled there to meet the children her family sponsored, expecting joy and connection. Instead, she found herself stunned by the reality: children and their mothers walking for hours under a blazing African sun to collect water that wasn’t even clean.

She came home angry. Angry at how much we take for granted, at how fast we live, at how much we waste, at how rarely we pause to consider the basic blessings that others pray for. But from that anger came action and purpose—a calling to step in, dig deep, and help rewrite the story. Within two months of returning, Ashley and a few friends raised enough money to fund their very first well, and just like that, The Living Well Project was born.

The motivation wasn’t just water. It was dignity. It was compassion. It was feeling the call, hearing the message, and having the courage to say yes.

Alongside her husband Paul and board members Alicia Miley, Sarah Henson, and Chris Wilkerson, Ashley believes that water is only the beginning. So far, the group has completed 16 wells across Kenya, Senegal, Malawi, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico— with another well in Uganda finalized just weeks ago, thanks in part

to a donor who stepped forward and said, “God called me to pay for whatever amount is left.”

That’s how this mission moves. With faith. With fire. With people willing to follow His lead.

With every visit, they aim to provide more than just clean water. They sit with families, pray in homes, laugh with children, and hold hands with widows. They bring shoes, hygiene kits, school supplies, and small, yet meaningful gifts. Most importantly, they bring the Gospel—spreading the word of Jesus Christ as they meet physical needs, aiming to be a spark of hope and connection, not just provision.

The team works hand-in-hand with Water for Nations—a faith-led nonprofit founded and run by Michael and Tammy McRae from southern Alabama, who were called by God to permanently relocate to Kenya where they now dedicate their lives to providing clean, accessible water to remote communities. While Water for Nations handles the

“THE MOTIVATION WASN’T JUST WATER. IT WAS DIGNITY. IT WAS COMPASSION. IT WAS FEELING THE CALL, HEARING THE MESSAGE, AND HAVING THE COURAGE TO SAY YES.”

drilling, permits, and logistics, Ashley’s cousin, who is now permanently located in Nairobi, personally scouts new well locations to help guide the mission’s direction on the ground.

“They’re in Kenya because God told them to go,” Ashley says. “And we’re just trying to follow His lead.”

While trained drillers handle the manual labor, the LWP team focuses on fellowship—fully immersing themselves in the communities they serve. One of their most unforgettable memories happened during a well dig near a rural school called Utoo. Once school was dismissed, the kids gathered around, hopeful and eager. When the drill hit the aquifer, a geyser of water shot into the air. One boy began fist-pumping, leaping with joy. He had never seen water like that before— water that was safe, plentiful… and his.  CONTINUED >

The team recalls many similar moments. Paul remembers meeting a grandfather who shocked him when he pulled a wrinkled photo of himself and Ashley from his pocket; one that he had safeguarded since their last visit, marking the true significance of the impact that these foreign missionaries had made on his life. Or, a woman who was gifted a sewing machine who now runs a thriving business with this simple yet vital tool. And then there’s Alicia, who personally connected with a family during a home visit whose story reminded her a bit of her own. The team went as far as buying every single tote this woman had made from recycled rice bags—bags, they learned, that helped pay for the medical care her husband desperately needed to survive.

These aren’t one-time gifts. These are lifelines.

And while the work is grounded in purpose, it’s also grounded in love. “The women over there do everything,” Ashley says. “And they get nothing in return.” When the LWP team visits, they make it a point to prioritize them, gifting jewelry, clothing, and simple tokens that say, you matter.

Back home, the work doesn’t stop. The team fundraises year-round through events like fish fries, raffle

ASHLEY DREAMS OF EXPANDING THEIR REACH EVEN FURTHER, OF SEEING HOW FAR AND WIDE GOD CAN TAKE THEM. “IF HE PUTS SOMETHING IN FRONT OF US AND WE SAY YES, HE PROVIDES,” SHE SAYS. “EVERY SINGLE TIME.”

tickets, and formal events like The Ball—each effort fueled by the community and focused on furthering the mission. They collect donated supplies with the same intention they bring to the field: to serve with love. Hygiene products, school supplies, clothes, shoes, and toothbrushes are carefully stored in their local warehouse, each item representing a prayer, a purpose, and a promise to return.

Ashley dreams of expanding their reach even further, of seeing how far and wide God can take them. “If He puts something in front of us and we say yes, He provides,” she says. “Every single time.”

And sometimes, it’s that quiet yes that changes everything.

As of 2025, the global water crisis still affects 1 in 4 people, but thanks to groups like The Living Well Project and Water for Nations, hope is flowing, wells are rising, and lives are being transformed: one well, one village, and one yes at a time.

NOVEMBER 28TH - DECEMBER 20TH

Downtown Carriage Rides

Pickup At Jefferson Street Plaza - 102 W Columbia St

Enjoy the twinkling lights and festive charm of Historic Downtown Farmington from a horse-drawn carriage! Free rides depart from Jefferson Street Plaza on select Fridays and Saturdays, November 28 – December 20. No reservations needed—just bring your holiday spirit and loved ones. Sponsored by Discover Farmington.

DECEMBER 5TH

Krekeler Jewelers Annual Christmas Parade

Downtown Farmington | 6:00 PM

Kick off the season with one of Farmington’s favorite traditions! Nearly 100 dazzling floats light up downtown for A Very Dickens Christmas—a magical mix of nostalgia, music, and merriment. Stay for Santa’s grand arrival as he unlocks Winter Wonderland!

DECEMBER 6TH

Downtown Ice Sculpture & Reindeer Visit

Downtown Farmington | 12:00 PM

Bundle up and head Downtown Farmington for a magical afternoon! Watch a live ice-sculpting demonstration at Winter Wonderland, visit Santa, and meet one of his real-life reindeer nearby at Jefferson Street Plaza. Enjoy festive photo ops and family fun—free for all! Saturday, December 6 | 12 – 2 PM. Presented by Discover Farmington.

Dr. Anton Beffa

Dr. Fitz and staff- Thank you for the great care and compassion you gave. Dr. Fitz and everyone made me feel comfortable, with the certain knowledge that I was in excellent hands.” - Medford

Dr. John Fitz Dr. Logan England

Precision Eye Care has been serving the Parkland area with quality eye care and cataract surgery for over 30 years.

We also provide glaucoma treatment, diabetic eye exams, macular degeneration and dry eye treatment. Drs. Anton Beffa and John Fitz are certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and are fellows of The American College of Surgeons. Our physicians strive to listen to you, carefully.

We provide a thorough, personalized examination with kindness and respect. Doctors Beffa, Fitz, England and their staff are committed to this mission, and we continually strive to improve all facets of our patient’s experience. We hope to provide compassion with a small town feel, maintaining our patient’s dignity, during every visit. We can address all of your optic needs, right here in Farmington.

DECEMBER 12TH - 13TH

A Merry Christmas Show

First State Community Center - Farmington | 7:00 PM and 4:00 PM

Celebrate the magic of the season with  A Merry Christmas Show, presented by the Farmington Ballet Arts Center in conjunction with the Young People’s Performing Arts Theatre. This festive production brings together talented local dancers and performers for a heartwarming holiday experience filled with music, movement, and Christmas cheer. You can see this beautiful annual performance on the 12th at 7:00M or the 13th at 4:00PM at the First State Community Center in Farmington.

DECEMBER 13TH

Auditions for Annie The Musical

MAC Tech Center - Mineral Area College Campus | 10:00 AM

Calling all performers! The Mineral Area Fine Arts Academy invites actors of all ages to audition for Annie The Musical. Auditions will be held Saturday, December 13th starting at 10 AM at the MAC Tech Center. Callbacks will follow on December 14th at 5 PM. Performances for Annie run February 26th – March 1st. Don’t miss your chance to shine on stage with this beloved classic!

DECEMBER 18TH

Christmas Pajama Musical Bingo Night

Four Towns Brewing Company - Park Hills, MO | 7:00 PM

Slip into your coziest Christmas pajamas and join Four Towns Brewing Company for an unforgettable night of Xtreme Music Bingo! Sing along to your favorite holiday hits, sip craft brews, and compete for festive prizes.