St. Charles County, MO November 2025

SPORTS + RECREATION

ADAM WAINWRIGHT AND BIG LEAGUE IMPACT

HEALTH + WELLNESS

EVENING WITH TERRY BRADSHAW

LOCAL SERVICES

ONE KIND ACT AT A TIME

“It’s their turn to be spoiled.”

— Shahid Imran, Founder

At Hampton Manor of St. Peters, we understand that choosing a senior living community is a decision made with your heart as much as your head.

This November, we invite you and your family to experience care with compassion in a place that feels like home.

Whether you’re seeking assisted living, memory care, or independent living, our team is dedicated to providing personalized support that preserves independence and promotes connection.

• Delicious, chef-prepared meals

• Engaging daily activities and social events

• Secure, welcoming spaces with safety and comfort in mind.

• Transparent care plans — you only pay for what you need.

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Gratitude

In this season of gratitude, we are reminded of the many blessings surrounding us. Thanksgiving encourages us to pause, embrace the present and reflect on the people and moments that bring us joy.

This month, our community shines with stories of generosity, inspiration and impact. Cardinals baseball legend Adam Wainwright takes the stage with Big League Impact, using his platform to change lives beyond the ballpark. World Pediatric Project unites St. Louis with the global mission of delivering life-saving pediatric medicine. And a special philanthropic evening with Pro Football Hall of Famer Terry Bradshaw and the dedicated supporters of the St. Louis Men’s Group Against Cancer reminds us how powerful it is when we come together to raise funds, advance treatments and spur prevention efforts. Just a few of the beautiful features in this edition highlight how giving back transforms lives.

On a personal note, we've have been especially grateful for the small, everyday moments, the laughter of loved ones around the dinner table, the warmth of a crisp fall morning coffee and the privilege of being part of such a vibrant, compassionate community.

Our November edition is dedicated to stories of gathering, gratitude and generosity. We are endlessly thankful for our advertising partners, whose support allows us to share these stories, and for you, our readers, who inspire us each day.

As we prepare to gather with loved ones, let’s focus not on possessions or accolades but on the connections we nurture and the good we do for others.

Wishing you and your family a Thanksgiving filled with gratitude, joy, and grace.

Publishers photo by John Lore

November 2025

PUBLISHER

Gordon Montgomery

gordon.montgomery@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Kelley Lamm

kelley.lamm@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Casey Pierce | casey.pierce@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Robin Jefferson, Julie Brown Patton, Mel Boban, Kelley Lamm

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Taka Yanagimoto, Laura Jordan, Caren Libby, Andrew Gegg

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

Busch Family Brewing and Distilling, founded in 2021 by Billy Busch and his family, blends tradition and innovation to craft beer, whiskey, and unforgettable community experiences on the historic Busch family farm. More than a brewery and distillery, it’s a gathering place with live music, festivals, events, and a growing future rooted in family, hard work, and passion.

Defiance, Missouri

NOVEMBER 2025

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Guests explored curated gear at the Men’s Modern General Store grand opening event. 2: Owners Micah and Caroline Raposo celebrated the Men’s Modern General Store grand opening. 3: At Saint Charles Oktoberfest, a fest-goer showcased a full stein of beer. 4: Festival-goers posed with an Oktoberfest character in lederhosen at Saint Charles Oktoberfest. 5: Kathy Morrison’s painting Caught Two won two awards at the Riverfront Paint Off. 6: At the 30th Mosaics Fine Art Festival, Chris Abigt earned Best-of-Show for oil/acrylic work. 7: O’Fallon held a ceremony to commemorate victims and heroes of Sept. 11, 2001.

8: Ladies of LBB attended the “Books & Bubbles” launch event. 9: Guests enjoyed wine tastings at the 2nd Annual St. Charles Wine Festival. 10: The volunteer-driven Old Newsboys Campaign-for-Kids hosted its Charity Polo-Match at August A. Busch Polo Club. 11: John Carney, Laura Hettiger, Bill Siedhoff and Molly Brown attended Dine Out for Nursery Kids. 12-13: Autumn-Feast, Public School House prepared by ExecutiveChef Jack W. Mac Murray III, under the stars. 14: Gala En-Blanc, celebrating 600 guests at Public School House supporting scholarships for families raised $500,000-plus.

ARTICLE BY KELLEY LAMM PHOTOGRAPHY BY PERSONAL EXPRESSION PHOTOS

Party Saddling Up For

THE HOT LIST

The Annual Hot List Party saddled up for a oneof-a-kind hoe-down at Busch Family Brewing & Distilling, presented by the IN YOUR CITY Show with Kelley & Gordon and City Lifestyle Clayton, St. Charles County and Chesterfield luxury publications. The celebration brought together owner Billy Busch, community leaders, entrepreneurs and tastemakers for an evening that blended rustic charm with sophisticated style. Guests were welcomed with exclusive swag bags before stepping into a night filled with memorable experiences. Photo booth by Personal Expressions, Live Music by Vince Martin set the tone, while Butler’s Pantry served up delicious bites that paired perfectly with the brewery’s craft selections. Attendees enjoyed a whiskey tasing experience, toured the brewery and ventured through a curated corn maze adventure designed to capture the spirit of the season. Adding to the evening’s excitement, the event featured a majestic Clydesdale photo

opportunity that paid homage to St. Louis tradition. Guests also admired the artistry of Diamond G Hat Co., which showcased handcrafted hat creations that reflected both Western flair and modern fashion.

What makes the Hot List Party so special is not only the celebration itself, but the chance to spotlight incredible individuals and businesses that are shaping and elevating our local cities. From innovators and philanthropists to cultural icons and rising entrepreneurs, this year’s Hot List honorees continue to inspire and impact our community in meaningful ways.

As the night came to a close, conversations sparked about the year ahead and how others can join this exclusive circle. Ask how to make the Hot List for 2026 and share your story with sophistication and style. After all, the Hot List is more than a party, it’s a platform to celebrate the people who make our cities shine.

“The celebration brought together community leaders, entrepreneurs and tastemakers for an evening that blended rustic charm with sophisticated style.”

MAKING POSITIVE IMPACTS IN ST. CHARLES COUNTY THROUGH MARCY’S PROJECT

One Kind Act At A Time

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

"Seeing the smiles from those helped and them leaving with dignity is the best."

Because of an 80-year-old woman named Marcy and her example of kindness, Marcy’s Project is now an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit operated 100% by volunteers.

"We raise money through donations, fundraising, grants and selling items through resale, then assist others in need, including restoring a sense of pride and dignity," explains Wendy Robinson, executive director of the organization.

When Wendy and her husband, Gregg, learned that an O'Fallon family that Marcy was supporting needed a helping hand, they stepped in. What began as one family’s story quickly grew into something much bigger. While Marcy has never been directly involved in Marcy's Project, she definitely was the inspiration that led to the Robinsons founding Marcy’s Project during the fall of 2019.

"Helping one family led to us helping others. As a resource to people going through hard times, we know everyone has different needs when things go wrong," shares Wendy.

Wendy says during COVID-19, they reached out to local nursing homes and school districts to see how they could help. "The response was overwhelming. We raised more than $7,000 to help the Meal Assistance Program in the Francis Howell School District, hand sanitizer and PPE in local nursing homes, and thank you treat trays to those nursing home staff and volunteers."

The nonprofit now works through four major efforts: Marcy's Meals, Marcy's Market, Marcy's Kids and Marcy's Milestones. The meals initiative supports 100 families each month from January through October.

The market at 1245 Jungermann Road provides families in need with free items, including clothing, personal hygiene products, baby essentials, cleaning supplies and paper goods. Families complete a market appointment form and receive an online link

to schedule an appointment, followed by receiving assistance from a Marcy volunteer who serves as a personal shopper to assist them. Families are welcome to use the service once every other month.

A Marcy's-operated clothing boutique also is offered at 1247 Jungermann Road on Fridays: 12-5 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering affordable clothing and accessories.

The well-being of the local aging community, especially those in nursing homes, is a top priority for this group. Marcy’s Milestones honors residents' birthdays at 10 local nursing homes. Each resident receives a mini-bundt cake and a handmade, personalized birthday card, delivered by a Marcy volunteer on the first of each month. "To date, we've celebrated over 2,300 birthdays!" Wendy shares.

Marcy’s Kids offers complimentary support to children in St. Charles County who are in need. Throughout the year, they offer Easter Baskets, a Holiday Market and Birthday Club. "We also provide Halloween costumes, prom and homecoming dresses and suits," Wendy adds.

There are many ways to support the worthy achievements of this nonprofit. For example, through Nov. 30, they are collecting toys for their upcoming Christmas Market. Additionally, the group's 2nd annual Heart of Gold Charity Gala is slated for March 21, 2026, at Ameristar. It will include a gourmet dinner and signature cocktails, dancing to Griffin and the Gargoyles and a silent/ live auction.

Marcy asked that first group of volunteers not to judge, because "what is someone else’s norm may not be our own." Those words of wisdom still guide the nonprofit's supporters to this day.

636.697.3525

MarcysProject.org

ARTICLE BY ROBIN SEATON JEFFERSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAKA YANAGIMOTO

‘WE WANT TO LOVE PEOPLE NOT JUST WITH OUR WORDS BUT WITH OUR ACTIONS. WE WANT TO COME ALONGSIDE THEM.’

BIG LEAGUE IMPACT

“We want to love people not just with our words but with our actions. We want to come alongside them.”

One of the most respected Major League Baseball pitchers of his generation—the only rookie to close a World Series in the 21st century—Adam

international clean water-engineering organization, Water Mission. That event sparked a movement that has connected the passion of sports fans with the charitable causes that matter most to the players they admire. Since 2013, the organization has worked

“WE WANT TO BE ON A MISSION WHEREVER WE GO.” ~ADAM WAINWRIGHT

Wainwright spent his 18-year career with the St. Louis Cardinals. Now he wants to spend the rest of his life helping others.

The Roberto Clemente Award winner’s Instagram account says it all: “Follower of Jesus. husband, daddy, outdoor lovin’, country music singin’, fantasy football dominatin’, STL pitchin’, Georgia boy.”

Nicknamed “Waino” by his first St. Louis Cardinal locker neighbor, Alan Benes, and “Uncle Charlie” for his threatening signature curveball, Adam has dedicated countless hours of his own time and called on many of his bigleague friends to help him help others.

It all began in 2013 when Adam started Big League Impact by hosting its inaugural fantasy football event, Waino’s World, and raising more than $110,000 for St. Louis nonprofit Operation Food Search and

with dozens of MLB players and built a platform of campaigns and events from coast to coast that has turned celebrity influence into real-world impact. And they’ve raised more than $11 million for their efforts.

“Our other mission is to inspire players to use their platforms purposefully to make a difference,” Adam says.

But Waino didn’t stop there. Two years ago, he launched MISSION 3:18 which encourages pro athletes to use their platforms to establish a legacy of service. In 2024, 57 players and 12 media and support staff members from nine MLB teams gave more than 275 hours across 40 service outings in 20 cities.

It doesn’t state so on the 3:18 website, but the name comes from the scripture 1 John 3:18: “Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”

“We’re not overtly in your face with our faith, but we want people to ask what it means. We want them to see it in what we do. And it’s because I’ve been given a lot that I believe much is required of me.”

Big League Impact also dedicated significant charitable efforts to organizations such as Crisis Aid International.

Today, Uncle Charlie also operates 5 Oaks Farm, a regenerative agricultural endeavor that he says he hopes will alleviate food insecurity in his hometown of Brunswick, Georgia. Brunswick has a significant poverty rate of 29.23 percent, higher than the national average.

Treating the farm as a classroom, the mission of 5 Oaks Farm is to cultivate the “soil” of the community: feeding families that are often overlooked, mentoring students like young saplings and calling neighbors together to take care of one another and the garden where God has placed us.

When 5 Oaks collects donations to feed the community, it doubles the impact by matching every dollar with an in-kind donation of its own ensuring every family has the chance to enjoy healthy, farm-fresh food.

The Cardinals great-turned-countrymusic-singer also hosted the first-ever Big League Bash at The Factory in July to benefit Big League Impact. Waino released his first studio album “Hey Y’all” last year

"I WAS HUNGRY AND YOU GAVE ME FOOD."

after retiring in 2023 as the Cardinals’ franchise’s third-winningest pitcher.

So far, Waino has debuted at the Grand Ole Opry and opened for the Zac Brown Band and Travis Tritt separately.

Adam says his and his wife’s faith in Christ infuses everything they do. The high school sweethearts were initially inspired to give back when they participated in a water mission. “We realized the impact that it made. Twenty-five hundred people will have clean water for the rest of their lives. People don’t realize that they could drink water out of a toilet and it would be cleaner than the water most people in the world actually drink.”

He says Jesus’ words in the 25th chapter of the book of Matthew keep them going: “’For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me…’”

“That’s who we are right there,” Adam says. “We want to be on a mission wherever we go.”

Clarendale

ARTICLE BY AUDRA HARROLD

The Well-Dressed Table

HOLIDAY HOSTING WITH A STYLISH TWIST

Velvet Table Runner

A deep jewel-tone velvet runner instantly adds runway glamour to holiday tables. Plush, elegant and dramatic, it’s the “little black dress” of table décor effortlessly chic and endlessly versatile.

Oversized Floral Arrangement

Bold, oversized florals set the tone, accented with pumpkins in fall and holiday greenery in winter. Artful and dramatic, this centerpiece captures the season’s spirit with a polished, fashion-forward edge.

Gold-Rimmed Chargers

Gleaming gold-rimmed chargers frame every plate like fine jewelry. This subtle sparkle elevates dinnerware, layering in luxury that is timeless yet undeniably on-trend for the holiday season.

Amber Glass Goblets

Amber goblets shimmer with a golden glow, refracting candlelight like jewelry for the table. Their timeless presence blends vintage character with modern edge, transforming every toast into a moment of effortless sophistication.

Rosemary Sprig Place Cards

Handwritten place cards topped with fragrant rosemary sprigs are the ultimate bespoke touch. Chic, personal and seasonal, they whisper refinement while welcoming each guest with fashionable, understated charm.

by Caroline Raposo

WOW THOSE GUESTS

ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY VIVANT ENTERTAINMENT

PERFORMANCE ART MEETS THE PARTY FOOD SCENE

Most everyone has experienced large events, and most of them go the same way: static buffet tables, tray-passed appetizers and maybe some fun signature cocktails at an open bar. Vivant Entertainment is bringing a new idea to the event landscape, where food and beverage is an artful performance. Events go from unexpected to unforgettable.

With servers entertaining party guests as performers, food installations serve as interactive set pieces parading around the party scene, surprising and delighting guests around every corner. By focusing on creative presentation and interactive concepts, this model of catering ensures that food and drink aren't just consumed,

but experienced. It transforms a simple aside at a party into an extraordinary, shareable moment, turning guests into an audience and the event itself into a true production.

Elements such as their "strolling table” take a typical buffet and mobilize it with a costumed performer who embodies a moving five-foot-wide table, laden with drinks or appetizers. Instead of simply receiving a canapé, a guest has a playful interaction with a living work of art. Whether it’s a living statue serving a cocktail or a performer embodying a Lichtenstein painting at an art show, the theatrical approach elevates the entire experience. The service becomes theater, creating an immediate and lasting impression. Plus, it's just plain fun!

For larger or more customized events, Vivant's artistry also extends to uniquely themed installations. For a corporate product launch, they might create a bespoke branded art piece to showcase the item itself. The food is not just a snack; it's a prop, an icebreaker and a central piece of the event's message. With as memorable of an evening like those created by Vivant, the gift keeps on giving as guests walk away telling others in their network all about it.

The lesson from Vivant is a compelling one for any event planner or host ready to move beyond the ordinary: Catering isn't just about what's on the menu — it's about how one serves the story. By embracing performance, custom concepts and creative presentation, culinary experiences can be transformed from a sideline service into the star of the show. So, the next time when planning an event, ask: How can the food and beverage service become the most talked-about moment of the night?

ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

Lend A Hand

LOCAL HOUSEHOLD DONATION RESOURCES

When life takes unexpected turns, having a safe, comfortable place to call home becomes more precious than ever. Fortunately, St. Louis is home to several organizations dedicated to ensuring that families facing hardship don’t start over with empty rooms or bare floors. These local charities understand that furniture isn’t just about comfort, it’s about stability, and hope for a new endeavor.

These local charities near you are here to help!

The Sharing Shed

The Sharing Shed in St. Charles partners with organizations to provide furniture for local families. Since their start, they have helped 2,500 families experiencing hardships such as house fires, floods, unemployment or other extensive damage be able to begin again. | TheSharingShed.org

Home Sweet Home

Home Sweet Home in Maplewood is helping those in new living situations get a running start. Their community collections provide families with a comfortable and safe space, with their main goal that everyone has a bed. | HomeSweetHomeSTL.org

The Society of St. Vincent de Pau

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul has store locations throughout St. Louis. They make it easy to help by picking up donations at homes, increasing the amount of people they can help. They even assist with car donations to give the relief of reliable transportation. | SVDPStLouis.org

CITY LIFESTYLE WRITER MEL BOBAN

Compiled by Mel Boban, St. Louis transplant

Mel has been a City Lifestyle writer for several years, and especially enjoys the chance to share the local love with ways to help out. Born and raised in the Chicago suburbs, she now calls St. Louis home, and always has found the way that St. Louisians come together to be unique and remarkable.

H O P E

with YOU

The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?

The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.

Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.

“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”

Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:

SCAN TO NOMINATE

“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”

Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:

“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”

Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.

This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.

“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”

Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.

This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.

To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.

NOVEMBER 7TH

First Fridays

Foundry Art Centre | 5:00 PM

Join the Foundry and celebrate the arts. The FAC will be open for extended hours through 8 p.m. for visitors to spend time in the galleries, meet resident studio artists, engage with the community and enjoy a wide array of art programming, entertainment and special events. This gathering is free to attendees. Email jmannisi@foundryartcentre.org for additional details.

NOVEMBER 8TH-9TH

Hot Wheels Monster

Trucks Live

Family Arena | 12:30 PM

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire brings fans’ favorite Hot Wheels Monster Trucks to life including Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, HW 5-Alarm, Bone Shaker, Bigfoot, Gunkster and introducing the brand-new Skelesaurus. Fans also can witness a special appearance from a transforming robot, plus the high-flyers of Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Freestyle Motocross Team. Special kids pricing available. Call 636.896.4200.

NOVEMBER 11TH

Veterans Day Ceremony

Cultural Arts Centre, St. Peters City Hall | 10:00 AM

Join the St. Peters Veterans Memorial Commission for the annual Veterans Day Ceremony to honor the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces. This free event includes refreshments after the ceremony at One St. Peters Centre Blvd. It is scheduled to conclude at noon.

LUNCH

NOVEMBER 15TH-16H Gateway

Outdoor Expo+Summit

Saint Charles Convention Center

This event is designed for diehard adventurers to families seeking new ways to enjoy the outdoors to professionals building networks in the industry. Plus, with plenty of food and beverages, live entertainment and opportunities to connect, the weekend can be fun and informative. Entry to the Gateway Outdoor Expo is free and open to the public, and includes free parking.

NOVEMBER 28TH

51st Christmas Traditions

Opening Day

Frontier Park | 12:00 PM

For nearly half a century, Saint Charles Christmas Traditions has created cherished memories for the young and young at heart. With a unique blend of storytelling, history and fairytale whimsy, visitors are transported to a world of yuletide nostalgia where reindeer fly, Victorian carolers share a cheerful tune and sugarplums dance in your head.

NOVEMBER 28TH-DECEMBER 30TH

City of O'FallonCelebration of Lights

Fort Zumwalt Park | 6:00 PM

Celebration of Lights is a holiday light display with each scene designed and funded by local organizations, churches and businesses. Started in 1991, the holiday event attracts more than 13,000 vehicles each year and more than 15,000 individuals during the Old-Fashioned Holiday Stroll. Drive-through, strolling, trolley rides, hayrides and train rides available. Call 636.474.2732 with questions.

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