Home & The Heartland

WHERE TRADITION MEETS PROGRESS - MEET THE CRITES
HOMETOWN HEROFREEDOM REALTY
RE-DISCOVER THE WEINGARTEN VINEYARD



WHERE TRADITION MEETS PROGRESS - MEET THE CRITES
HOMETOWN HEROFREEDOM REALTY
RE-DISCOVER THE WEINGARTEN VINEYARD
Under NEW OWNERSHIP and newly reopened in September of 2024, offering the best selection of wines, cocktails, beer, service, and wedding weekend experiences. With over 40 selections of wines from across the globe, to draft beer and signature cocktails, we have it all! Also offering exceptional brunch, lunch, and dinner selections prepared by our local Executive Chef, Ryan Grieshaber. In addition to our winery and restaurant, our 300 guest wedding venue is stunning.
Coming Spring of 2025, our Bridal Suite and Grooms Quarters features a beautiful wedding day experience along with lodging accommodations for up to 20 guests. Scan the QR code below to inquire about our wedding package selection & available dates along with upcoming vineyard events.
Hello, and welcome to the premier issue of Parkland City Lifestyle- where we're inspired by our community, and hope this magazine inspires you too!
We're thrilled to be your source of all things local here in the Parkland. As you flip through the pages, you'll be drawn to the incredible stories behind the people and places that call the Parkland home.
From the carefully crafted food being served up at local restaurants like 12 West or The Weingarten Vineyard, to beautiful homes from Terre Du Lac to Farmington; from start-ups and successful businesses such as Pure Hydration and Precision Eyecare to local artists, non-for-profit organizations and home services, our goal is to share the stories of everything and everyone the Parkland has to offer- and the things that matter most to you, our readers, for whom we produce this magazine each month.
Thank you for inviting us into your homes and sharing your lives with us; we can't wait to see you around town.
LENA
JOHNSON, PUBLISHER
@PARKLANDCITYLIFESTYLE
PUBLISHER
Lena Johnson | Lena.Johnson@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Kayle Nephew | kayle.nephew@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Destiny Borgmann, KC Photography
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jayme Emery
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Proverbs 3:5-6
Lena Johnson PARKLAND CITY LIFESTYLE PUBLISHER
Destiny Borgmann Photography
Farmington Family Dental FARMINGTONFAMILYDENTAL.COM
Farmington Regional Chamber of Commerce FARMINGTONREGIONALCHAMBER.COM
Farmington Vision Care FVCMO.COM
Freedom Realty MO FREEDOMREALTYMO.NET
Krekeler Jewelers KREKELERJEWELERS.COM
Midwest Electric Contractors
Savvy Wellness
Mineral Area College MINERALAREA.EDU
Nicholson Heating & Air CALLNICHOLSON.COM
POSH Medical POSHMEDICAL.JANEAPP.COM
Precision Eyecare MYPRECISIONEYECARE.COM
Serenity HospiceCare SERENITYHC.ORG
The Weingarten Vineyard WEINGARTENVINEYARD.COM
Wideman Pools WIDEMANPOOLS.COM
Woody & Sons Disposal WOODYANDSONSDISPOSAL.COM
Jackson’s Journey Foundation
Dr. Perry and his team are dedicated to getting you the care that you need to be fully healthy. We have made it our goal to help you keep your teeth well into 80s and beyond.
Farmington Family Dental has been around since 1965 when Dr. Ross opened his doors to the community. Dr. Perry took over in 2020 and quickly became a part of the community. We started off with a one-time event, A Hero’s Smile, in 2022 and are proud to announce we have grown this event to twice a year and have donated $70,000+ in dentistry to the men and women who have served our country.
• Eating habits also impact oral health. Avoid snacking and sipping--especially chips, sweets, soda, and juice.
• What your child eats can affect their health in more ways than one. Focus on meals with protein, veggies, and whole grains.
• Decay (cavities) on baby teeth can affect adult teeth under the gum lines. Make sure to bring them in for their exams every 6 months to catch decay early.
With a remarkable 2024, Freedom Realty MO is thrilled to announce the expansion of its newest location in Fredericktown, Missouri. Now offering 4 locations, their team of experienced and dedicated agents is now more accessible than ever and ready to help you achieve your real estate goals!
Scan to read more
The Farmington Regional Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Awards Banquet on March 28th at the beautiful Cardinal Center, located within Mineral Area College’s Industry and Technology Building. The evening will commence at 5:30 PM, offering an unforgettable celebration that honors the achievements and contributions of some of the most distinguished members and businesses within our community.
Woody & Son's Disposal is collecting toys for Jackson's Journey - their nonprofit organization that collects toys all over town to bring to children in need, with an emphasis on children affected with cancer. You can find drop-off donation boxes located at Pit Stop, K Buckley Towing, Froggy 96, Craig Wood Shelter Insurance, ACE Hardware, Napa Auto Parts, Black Knight Automotive, Sam Scism Ford, and Boyd & Associates.
ARTICLE BY LENA JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY LENA JOHNSON, DESTINY BORGMANN
My husband, Matt is the head of site engineering and facilities at Bayer in Chesterfield. Our son, Matthew Jr. loves computers and all things science and our youngest Jack, can be found on the wrestling mat or soccer field.
Columbia Street Carriage House opened in October of 2023. We share our beautiful property with guests from all over the country and we love meeting so many new people. Our guest house provides a great option for loved ones who want to come visit their families in the Parkland.
I have danced and sang my whole life. I teach line dancing in my spare time and since moving to Farmington, my favorite event has been teaching at Country Days. You can find me teaching there, this June.
I’ve been a nurse for 20 years. My passion is pediatric, private duty nursing but also love working in our local nursing homes and other local facilities. Nursing has given me a foundation that allows me to serve my community with a skill I can carry with me everywhere.
Attending the strength HIT class at our local Civic Center has been a staple of mine for years now. Building relationships with this group has been just as meaningful as building muscles. I love my fitness family with all my heart.
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.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE W. PARNELL
TIP #1 Freshen up the Kitchen
A fresh, clean kitchen impacts the entire home. To freshen up the sink, Kim says, “Run hot water while pouring in equal parts of baking soda and white vinegar through the disposal. Follow with a few drops of blue Dawn Dishwashing soap to cut away any grease buildup. Sharpen the disposal blades by running cooler water and ice through it. For a fresh smell, grind a few slices of lemon, lime or orange, removing any seeds first.”
To clean everything else in the kitchen, including counters and stainless-steel appliances, use a microfiber cloth and a solution of 2-3 drops of Dawn mixed with water.
The living room also deserves special attention. Kim says, “Start by pulling furniture away from the walls, vacuuming and dusting behind it. Make sure you dust air vents as well. Then, pull all of the furniture cushions off to vacuum underneath and in crevices. It’s always good to rotate and fluff cushions too.”
To banish dust from your furniture, Kim suggests using a good microfiber cloth that is slightly damp instead of furniture polish, which can leave a build-up on furniture that actually attracts dust.
Brighten up your whole home by intentionally focusing on the windows. “Homeowners often forget about the inside of the window,” says Kim. “They dust the blinds or the shutters, but when the blinds are pulled up, the windows often have dust or a film on them.” Kim suggests cleaning the inside of the windows on a cloudy day to reduce streaks. “A good glass cleaner with a microfiber cloth works really well. If you still have streaks, try using a little bit of rubbing alcohol.”
THERE’S A NEW SHERIFF IN TOWN
As a third-generation law enforcement officer, Jeff Crites says the calling to help others and his community runs in his blood. Jeff began his career as a volunteer firefighter before pursuing a career in law enforcement. Once an officer, he rose through the ranks to become a lieutenant, serving the City of Farmington as a law enforcement official for a total of thirty-five impactful years.
When an opportunity presented itself, Jeff dove head first with his devoted wife, Crissy Crites, by his side to campaign for Sheriff. After long days of campaigning and many door knocks later, he was sworn into office for Saint Francois County on December 31st, 2024.
Jeff describes his journey not as one he had meticulously planned and brought to fruition, but more so as God’s plan. Jeff is a devout Christian, proud father, loving husband, and a strong servant to his community. In his free time, Jeff enjoys spending time with his wife and
3 children, dining at local restaurants, enjoying nature and hosting get-togethers. The Crites take pride in knowing their house is a hub for gatherings with friends and family alike, further instilling a strong sense of community within the walls of their beautiful home.
Some of their favorite things about our area are the variety of local businesses, Friday night football and other sporting events, and the wide array of outdoor activities that can be found here. Jeff and Crissy say they are proud to serve a community that supports one another, and
“Our mission is to provide the highest possible level of law enforcement to all of the citizens within St. Francois County, while treating them with kindness and fairness”.
that one of the things that makes Saint Francois County so special, is the warm and welcoming citizens within it.
A resounding theme in the lives of the Crites’ is balance; continually working to find a harmonious equilibrium between work, relationships, hobbies, and selfcare. This remains a challenge many of us face, however, if you ask Crissy, the beauty of life lies within its messy and unpredictable nature. For the moments of chaos and uncertainty often lead to the
most profound growth and meaningful experiences. It’s this exact mindset that has propelled them through the fear of the unknown, knowing that with the support of one another, anything is possible – allowing them to constantly strive for their greatest potential.
Through their thirty-two years of marriage, Jeff and Crissy have discovered what it truly means to learn, love, and grow together. They both maintain that putting God and family first has allowed them to
navigate life’s ever-changing chapters. They say that without this dynamic, Jeff’s successful campaign for sheriff would have never been possible.
As a community leader, Jeff’s primary focus as sheriff lies on the needs of others, growth, safety, and stability. A safe community breeds a strong sense of belonging, and when citizens feel safe and secure, they’re more likely to fully engage with their community, participate in public events, and utilize local resources and businesses.
Jeff is humbled by the opportunity to serve his community and pledges to do so with integrity, empathy, and transparency. “This is not just my achievement – it is ours. As I take on this responsibility, I am reminded that leadership is about service, and I am here to serve you. I look forward to working alongside each of you to build a brighter future.”
Jeff’s understanding of community has been carved out by each encounter he has been a part of, those that came before him, and those that will follow. He emphasizes that not only does your community influence you, it is also influenced by you. Jeff aspires to leave behind a legacy of goodwill, leadership by example, and selfless service; and hopes to be remembered as a ‘salt of the earth’ kind of man.
In every town, there are stories of resilience, grit, and triumph—tales that remind us of the unwavering spirit of those who refuse to be defined by their circumstances. One such story belongs to Dustin Walker, a proud member of the 82nd Airborne Division of the U.S. Army; who once jumped into the unknown on the battlefield, and now leaps into success in the real estate market.
Born with little but determination, Dustin rose from humble beginnings, serving his country with honor before channeling his discipline, work ethic, and leadership into a thriving career as a realtor and broker with Freedom Realty Missouri. His journey is one of perseverance, proving that no obstacle is too great for those willing to put in the work.
Today, he stands as a pillar of his community—not just as a decorated veteran, but as a trusted business leader helping families find their dream homes. Beyond his success in the real estate world, Dustin Walker has never forgotten his roots or the brothers and sisters who served alongside him. With a heart dedicated to giving, he has made it his mission to uplift his community and fellow veterans, offering mentorship, financial assistance, and housing support to those in need. Whether it’s organizing charity events, helping homeless veterans find stable housing, or donating a portion of his earnings to veteran-focused organizations, his generosity knows no bounds. He actively mentors transitioning
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
DESTINY BORGMANN
service members, providing them with career guidance and opportunities to build their futures. A selfless leader, he embodies the true meaning of service—proving that his commitment to his country didn’t end when he took off the uniform. Through his unwavering dedication, Dustin continues to inspire and change lives, ensuring that no veteran in his community is left behind.
For veterans and active-duty service members, the VA loan is one of the most valuable benefits earned through service—a powerful tool that makes homeownership more accessible with no down payment, competitive interest rates, and no private mortgage insurance (PMI). However, the process of applying for a VA loan can be complex, involving multiple steps. Without the right guidance, this journey can feel overwhelming.
As a veteran founded company, Freedom Realty believes that those who serve our country deserve a smooth and transparent home-buying experience. With them by your side, you won’t just be navigating the VA loan process—you’ll have a dedicated team of agents committed to making the process as seamless and stress-free as possible, ensuring that every step leads you closer to the home you’ve earned.
Dustin Walker is not the kind of leader who watches from the sidelines—as someone who believes idle hands are the devil’s workshop, he’s right there in the trenches with you, ready to face any challenge head-on. Whether guiding a first-time homebuyer through the complexities of
the market, walking a veteran through the VA loan process, helping a seller navigate tough negotiations, or supporting his own employees in their personal and professional battles, he believes in rolling up his sleeves and getting his hands dirty. His military background instilled in him the mindset that every obstacle has a solution, and he applies that same problem-solving grit to not only real estate, but to life itself. To him, this business isn’t just about selling houses—it’s about building trust, fixing problems, and creating opportunities. With Dustin Walker by your side, you’re not just working with a realtor; you’re gaining a dedicated ally who will stand with you every step of the way.
Freedom Realty Missouri’s footprint includes a fifty mile radius which expands from Festus, to Fredericktown, including locations in Sainte Geneveive and Farmington. What once started as a solo mission, has grown into four thriving locations, with a team of over forty dedicated agents.
Freedom Realty isn’t just a real estate company—it’s a pillar of the community, leaving a lasting footprint on every neighborhood, and home it touches. Founded on the values of integrity, service, and loyalty, the company has become a trusted name for homebuyers, sellers, and residents alike. Each office serves as more than just a business hub; it’s a beacon of support, providing jobs, mentorship, and resources for both the community and veterans in need. From hosting charity events and veteran outreach programs to
helping families find their forever homes, Freedom Realty stands as a testament to what can be achieved through hard work and a giving heart. With every deal closed, every hand extended in support, and every dream realized, the company continues to make a profound impact—one home, one family, and one community at a time. This hometown hero has turned military precision into real estate mastery, building not only a name for himself but a legacy that will last for generations. Freedom Realty Missouri continues to set the standard for what real estate should be: personal, passionate, and deeply rooted in the community it serves.
THURSDAY, MARCH 20
7:00PM
There are many science-based benefits to having houseplants in the home and office environment.
The ubiquitous houseplant has long been a cautious curiosity for many. Comments such as “I don’t have a green thumb,” or “I can’t keep anything alive,” have echoed through the rooms and hallways of almost every home in America. Well, it’s time to dispel all the mistruths about whether houseplants are beneficial and to lay the foundation for a little oasis of green happiness in the corner of every home!
By the way, you don’t really need a green thumb as there are plenty of hard-to-kill houseplants that can survive any level of neglect! And remember not only do houseplants look pretty, they also decrease stress and anxiety, increase happiness, and bring a sense of joy and relaxation to every room.
Houseplants make us feel better about ourselves in many ways because they allow us to care for them and we reap the rewards of that love. No one is alone when you have a houseplant, as they are our forever listeners. Yes, some people actually do talk with their houseplants all day long! There are
ARTICLE BY SEAN O’KEEFE
many science-based benefits to having houseplants in the home and office environment. Aside from reducing indoor air pollutants and increasing humidity in the home, house plants have been shown to reduce mental fatigue, accelerate the healing process, as well as improve productivity and focus.
Pothos, spider plants, lady palms, yucca, and succulents are so pretty and easy to grow. It is no wonder that we have seen a revival of indoor gardening trends. Instagram is teeming with photos of incredible indoor “living green” vignettes that show us all how clever we can be when decorating with house plants! All you really need is to a pick a place in the home that has the best light and pick your plants.
Think outside of the box when it comes to decorating with houseplants. Look for underused spaces. Use mixed and matched pots of different sizes and shapes. Turn a shelf into a plant display. Go vertical with some hanging plants or an antique ladder. You can even group some of your favorite plants together into a single large decorative pot.
Signature large plant displays anchor the most well-designed rooms in America and it’s all there for us to look at, learn from, and bring into our own home. Whether combined into a single large decorative pot or clustered together in a corner, always remember the key to any house plant décor is to have a thriller, a tall plant usually with a strong color and form; filler plants that literally will fill the pot covering all the soil; and a spiller plant that trails over the edge of the pot. Try any combination of your favorite plants or a tried and true combination of a fiddle-leaf fig, a prayer plant, and a string of pearls.
No matter how you look at it, houseplants improve our lives in many ways. Indoor gardens provide us an alternative way to commune with nature and to reconnect with the living world. We all benefit from the additional life that houseplants bring into our homes. In this crazy world of ours, wouldn’t be it nice to return home to your own personal indoor greenspace?
Happy gardening!
At JS Equipment and Service, our customers come first. We’re more than just a Bad Boy Mower dealership--we’re your trusted partner for sales, service, and support. Whether it’s expert advice, reliable repairs, or the best mowers on the market, we’ve got your back every step of the way.
Visit us today and see how we’re raising the bar in customer care.
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Advanced technology for diagnosing and treating medical eye conditions
Trendy and classic selection of eyeglasses.
Wide variety of contact lenses for all ages.
New Flavor, New Look, New Ownership
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
Tucked away on twenty-five serene acres in the rolling hills of Sainte Genevieve, Missouri, sits Weingarten Vineyards, a destination that offers a perfect blend of rustic elegance, fine wine, mouth-watering food, and breathtaking views. Known for its grand yet inviting atmosphere, this picturesque venue
“The stunning surroundings paired with carefully curated menus that feature both local and seasonal ingredients, offer guests an upscale experience within reach.”
provides a memorable experience for all guestswhether you’re savoring a gourmet meal, enjoying an award-winning glass of wine, or unwinding on the scenic outdoor patio.
The elegant dining room at Weingarten Vineyards exudes sophistication and warmth, highlighted by its large vaulted ceiling, and expansive windows that frame breathtaking views of the Missouri countryside, allowing guests to dine in the midst of nature’s beauty.
Along with its stunning architecture, Weingarten boasts a collection of twenty-five varieties of hand-selected wine from around the world, including countries such as France, Italy, Argentina, Spain, Germany,
and New Zealand. Whether you’re looking for flavor profiles that are rich and complex, bold and fruity, or spicy and earthy, you’re sure to find something your palate enjoys. From their vast selection of wines to the twelve different beers on tap, or the wide array of spirits and cocktails, Weingarten prides itself on having options that fit every budget, and tastebud.
In the kitchen, Head Chef Ryan Grieshaber cooks up delicious yet affordable dining options such as light yet savory lunches, exquisite fine dining entrees, and their newest addition – Sunday Brunch! The stunning surroundings paired with carefully curated menus that feature both local and seasonal ingredients, offer guests an upscale experience within reach.
“We plan to disrupt the industry norm by offering fresh perspectives and upgrading all avenues of service — from the wine we pour, to the weddings we host, and the food we serve. We strive to offer an unforgettable experience for everyone.”
Now under new ownership, Joe Tomiser brings fresh and exciting changes while preserving the charm guests love. He says the vineyard plans to offer more, while still undercutting the market price –changing the wine and wedding industry completely.
Weddings at Weingarten Vineyards are nothing short of magical, offering couples a backdrop that blends nature’s beauty with the rustic elegance of Missouri’s wine country. The vineyard’s stunning landscape creates the perfect ambiance for ceremonies, where vows can be exchanged beneath the open sky, or amidst rows of intricately placed wine barrels.
The winery’s charming event spaces include their Purple Room, which can accommodate up to forty guests for a more intimate gathering, and their Barrel Room, which comes equipped with a banquet area and dance floor, that can comfortably accommodate up to three hundred. Weingarten also has two Honeymoon suites, which come equipped with queen-sized beds, generous en-suite bathrooms, luxurious soaking tubs, and their own private balconies.
In addition, construction is currently underway to create elegant new bridal and groom suites upstairs, making Weingarten Vineyards an even more desirable destination for weddings and special events.
“Weingarten
also has two Honeymoon suites, which come equipped with queen-sized beds, generous en-suite bathrooms, luxurious soaking tubs, and their own private balconies.”
Weingarten plans to unveil their one-of-akind bridal and groom quarters in the fall of 2025. These suites will offer bunking for up to ten, sleeping eighteen to twenty guests total in the bridal and groom parties. Each of the suites will come equipped with their own individualized cocktail areas, spacious bathrooms, getting-ready quarters for the women, and a recreational parlor for the men. The bridal quarter offers a gorgeous lounge elevated by floor-to-ceiling windows to allow
for plenty of natural lighting. The groom's quarters offer a lounge with a pool table and a private balcony area.
With renowned chefs, hand-crafted cocktails, and lively weekend entertainment, Weingarten Vineyards has become a favorite retreat for wine lovers and visitors seeking a tranquil escape. The combination of charm, quality, and value makes Weingarten a perfect destination for those seeking an elegant yet affordable retreat in the heart of Missouri.
MARCH 8TH
Don't Let the Piegeon Drive the Bus!
Centene Center - Farmington, MO | 2:00 PM
MACOA and The City of Farmington present : Don't Let The Pigeons Drive The Bus (The Musical) based on the best-selling book series published by Hyperion Books for Children. Tickets are $10 / adult and $6 / kids and can be purchased at the Farmington Civic Center or by calling 573-756-0900
MARCH 16TH
The Dew Drop Inn - Bloomsdale, MO | 11:00 AM
Enjoy an afternoon of wine, cocktails, and fun on a St.Patrick's Day-themed trolley tour starting at the Dew Drop Inn, with stops at Baetje Farms, and Charleville Brewery and Winery.
MARCH 27TH
The Story Tour
Centene Center - Farmington, MO | 6:30 PM
A Night of Hope for the Hurt and Hurting - Join Allan Scott in an evening filled with faith, redemption, inspiration, and God's glory as he takes the stage alongside the Allan Scott Band and Pastor Travis Habbershon to deliver powerful testimonies and moving music. Tickets can be purchased online at thestorytour.org
APRIL 12TH
26th Annual Health and Resource Expo
Mineral Area College - Park Hills, MO | 8:00 AM
Held in the Mineral Area College Career and Technology Building, this event is a great way to discover the many resources and opportunities the various businesses within our community offer. If you have questions regarding this event, please contact Dawn Sander at 573-760-0212
APRIL 12TH
Art & Craft Fair
Park Hills Underground- Park Hills, MO | 9:00 AM
Park Hills Underground is hosting an Arts & Crafts Fair to highlight local artists of all kinds who will have their work on display for sale. Weather permitting, this event will be held outside. If you are interested in being a vendor, please contact Jeff at 269-420-3498.
APRIL 19TH
Drag Strip - Bonne Terre, MO | 8:00 AM
Autos 4 Autism is an annual drag racing fundraiser at the Bonne Terre Drag Strip to support Hope 4 Autism and celebrate Autism Acceptance Month. Their mission is to empower individuals with Autism through social and vocational training.