The Power Of Investment
Investment, by definition, is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. While financial investments often come to mind first, we can also invest in our community, relationships, health and personal growth. All with the hope that our efforts will create a lasting, positive impact.
Investing in our community can take many forms, from supporting local businesses and schools to volunteering and mentoring future generations. On a larger scale, we can stay informed and involved in city planning initiatives, participate in public surveys and engage in discussions that shape the future of our neighborhoods.
When we invest in our finances, we create stability, build wealth and work toward long-term goals, such as homeownership, retirement or financial freedom. Smart investments, whether in the stock market, real estate or personal savings, lay the foundation for security and future opportunities.
Perhaps the most profound investment we can make is in our relationships with our families, friends and those who mean the most to us. Time, presence and meaningful connections are invaluable, enriching not just our own lives but also those of the people around us. These investments yield immeasurable returns in the form of love, support and shared experiences.
As publishers, our passion is to share stories that inspire, connect and strengthen our community. Your city is our city, and we take great pride in representing the people and businesses that make it thrive.
In this edition, we explore the many ways we can invest in what matters most in our community, our financial well-being and the people we hold dear. Whether it’s a local entrepreneur taking a bold step toward their dreams, a family strengthening their bonds, or an initiative aimed at shaping a better future, these stories remind us that every investment we make has the power to shape our lives for the better.
Photo on location at Oak Street Inn Speakeasy Lounge
by Christine Iris Schmidt
April 2025
PUBLISHERS
Gordon Montgomery gordon.montgomery@citylifestyle.com
Kelley Lamm kelley.lamm@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Casey Pierce | casey.pierce@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Christina Iris Schmidt christina.schmidt@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Julie Brown Patton, Robin Seaton Jefferson, Stacey Collins Bibb, Mel Boban, Angela Brookerd, Kelley Lamm
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Janie Jones, Christina Schmidt, Jenna Whitmore, Casey Pierce, Schyler Hohenberger, Kevin de Miranda
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Proverbs 3:5-6
Photo
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
The Public School House. 5: Chris Rowland, Dardenne Prairie resident, joined United 4 Children board of directors. 6: St. Louis native A.J. Foster joined United 4 Children board of directors. 7: Illume Aesthetics opened in Cottleville at 5344 Highway N.
1: General Membership meeting. Sheri Wiltse, Molly Maher, John Dawson, Kristen Williams, Dave Robin, John Dawson 2: The Chamber meeting with Mayor of Weldon Spring Don Licklider, Dr. Todd Hamilton–Image Eye Care 3: Promotions Pronto and owner Stacee Fernandez celebrate 20 years at The Public School House. 4: Celebrating Promotions Pronto 20 years with great gifts at
JENNA WHITMORE
JENNA WHITMORE
8: Vendors and guests enjoyed ‘Pretty View Girls’ SIP & SHOP at The Quarry Wine Garden. 9: A Seat At The Table raised more than $100,000 for their mission at the Inaugural Gala. 10: Debby Wood and family supporting A Seat at the Table Inaugural Gala at The Reverie. 11: Local residents to perform in April with tribute band, Pink Houses, John Cougar-Mellencamps greatest hits. 12: Stergos family, event chairs mission to provide loving homes and resources for at-risk 18-25-year olds. 13: A few of the ladies from the 2025 Krewe of Cunetto. 14: ‘lift up’ local family, volunteers are placing Beams of Hope personalized framework in a home.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF ST. CHARLES COUNTY
“Magic Eraser” Treatment
STAFF MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Cheryl is an aesthetic nurse injector and laser specialist with 13 years of experience in the industry. She is part of the creative mind behind Renu Med Spa. Cheryl began her nursing career in 2005 working in the hospital setting, then transitioned to working for a well-known board-certified facial plastic surgeon for 12 years where she learned to perfect her craft in the aesthetic industry. She also trained for two well-known laser companies teaching offices how to utilize laser technology. Cheryl prides herself on creating a personal relationship with clients, getting to know them and understand their aesthetic goals. She is continuously educating herself and immersing herself within the industry to bring you the most up-to-date treatments. Cheryl will work with your lifestyle and budget to get you the most refreshed look, and then teach and assist you in maintaining it.
Tired Of Arthritis Holding You Back?
The Solution Is More Simple Than You Think!
By: Dr. Beth Templin
Have you been told by your physician that your arthritis is due to years of "wear and tear"? Are you worried it’s not safe to exercise because it may make your arthritis pain worse? Do you think the only way to manage your arthritis is by taking pain pills and getting painful injections? Are you trying to delay joint replacement surgery as long as possible? If yes, y ou're not alone. Arthritis is one of the most common causes of pain and debility in older adults. Unfortunately, it is very common for people to feel hopeless and helpless when it comes to arthritis. Often, it stems from a belief that your arthritis pain will only get worse over time. Luckily, those beliefs tend to come from information that is outdated and incorrect! Most people realize their arthritis won 't magically go away on its own, but they still don't take action. It might be because they don't know what steps to take to improve their arthritis pain OR they don't truly believe they can improve arthritis "at their age". Fortunately, there are several options to help manage your arthritis pain and to keep you active as you age.
I've put together a FREE guide explaining that even though you're living with a rthritis, it does not mean that you should expect to lose your independence or live with pain for the rest of your life.
Inside this guide you'll find: T he top 6 myths of arthritis! Why we lose cartilage and what you can do to prevent it. Tips on how to reduce your arthritis pain. The positive impact of exercise. AND much more!
I want to make this guide available to you absolutely free of charge! To claim your copy, simply call (314) 9391377 or visit our website housefitstl.com/arthritispain to download the report. If you’re ready to manage your arthritis pain and lead an active lifestyle, this guide can help you get started with confidence!
Founders of the Justin Delivers Hope charity, Adam and Melinda Hendrix, were honored at a recent St. Peters board of aldermen meeting for donating $70,000 to the St. Peters Police Department, which has helped the city acquire two new K-9 units for the first time in 19 years. K-9s Atila and Audie were introduced during the presentation. St. Peters Police Chief Andy Ramirez says the charity has helped 19 different K-9 units in local communities.
Photography Courtesy of City of
St. Charles County Park Major Elements To Be Improved
St. Charles County Council members approved two parks improvement projects. The lodge lake at Quail Ridge Park is going to be restored, including draining, digging siltation/sediment, installing new lake liner, installing clay topper, adding rip rap to banks, installation of electric and lake bubblers. The second project is for Klondike Park Utility Services Construction and Development to construct an elevated utilities platform and provide water and electrical utilities to the Klondike Park Boat Ramp.
Photography Courtesy of St. Charles County
St. Peters
INVESTING ONE’S TIME
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
ADVICE EDITORIAL: WAYS TO GIVE BACK
The most limited resource people have is time. When thinking about investing or donating, we often consider money or physical assets. But in reality, dedicating time to a cause or foundation in local communities pays off tenfold, too. There are many ways, both one-time and ongoing, to help in neighborhoods and in many cases all they cost is time. The best part is that you can include friends and family members, and maybe even get a workout while at it.
MENTORING
03
SHELTER HELP
For those who typically walk for exercise, letting a furry friend join you is an easy way to help out. Local dog rescue shelters often allow volunteer walkers to come reprieve the cooped up pets to get some exercise and spend time outdoors, away from their noisy kennels. 01
This silly word may sound like a dance or sport, but it’s a Swedish-coined term for adding trash pickup to fitness jogs or walks. Head to a favorite park on a nice spring day for a workout, but be sure to grab a trash bag. Along the way, spend some extra time beautifying the area by clearing it of waste.
Regardless of professional background or life journey, you have sound advice to offer local youth. Joining a program, such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, speaking at a local school or even offering an ambitious student to job-shadow you for a day are all easy ways to dedicate time to the next generation. Showing them that they matter and that their ambitions are valid can help keep them inspired to pursue their dreams.
PLOGGING BOARD COMMITTEE
02
If you have a particular interest in an area of government, head to city hall to see if any volunteer-led committees are looking for citizen volunteers. There are often committees or commissions serving on advisory panels in areas such as sustainability, beautification, event planning, zoning, finances and more that look for the collective opinions of neighborhood representatives. These commissions are important, and can make meaningful impacts directly to communities.
04
HELPING COMMUNITY
St. Charles Attorney Rudy Beck Shares Legal Expertise In Protecting Families And Their Financial Assets
ARTICLE BY STACEY COLLINS-BIBB, ED.D.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASEY PIERCE
“It’s important to dedicate your time, talent and treasure to helping those in your community,” Rudy Beck says, regarding professional and personal endeavors. “I’ve been doing this for over 50 years, and I still love helping people find a better way.”
Beck, Lenox & Stolzer
“A Heritage Trust offers extensive benefits while providing immunity from asset exposure.”
Rudy Beck is an attorney, a military veteran and a dedicated member of the community who serves through Kiwanis Club, Chamber of Commerce, University of Missouri Alumni Association, Duchesne High School endowment committee and the Boys and Girls Club of St. Charles County.
Rudy received the Champion of Older American Award from SSM Healthcare system, and is one of only two attorneys in Missouri selected for membership in the American Association of Trust, Estate and Elder Law Attorneys. He co-founded the national organization, Veterans Advocates Group of America, a group whose mission is to improve training and employment opportunities for veterans and their families.
Rudy also is the founder and owner of Beck, Lenox & Stolzer Estate Planning and Elder Law, LLC, a St. Charles law firm comprised of attorneys who provide clients with peace of mind through the establishment of wills, trusts, powers of attorney, guardianships, asset protection and special needs planning. This niche area of law is so complex, it requires lifelong dedication to learning, teaching, adapting and investigating.
"We help clients with probate and trust administration, as well as with Veterans Administration benefits and Medicaid," he says. "Contrary to popular belief, a Last Will and Testament does not circumvent probate court. On the other hand, a Living Trust does avoid probate."
Rudy emphasizes the importance of placing as many assets as possible into a Trust, and allowing a Will to serve its function with issues, such as the care and guardianship of minor children.
Early planning for the future is imperative. The median age of St. Charles County residents is approximately 40. At this age, it is not uncommon for a resident to be employed, with children at home, and aging parents. What are the basic documents a person of median age in St. Charles County should have in place to plan for the expected or the unexpected? Rudy says every person should have Durable Powers of Attorney for Health Care and Finances, as well as a Living Trust.
For more mature populations, it is important to protect oneself from being financially exposed in case the need for long-term nursing home or assisted living care arises. Although it is best to plan for such circumstances well in advance, Rudy says he and his team are at the ready for long-term care crisis planning, for times when situations arise which result in the need for such care immediately.
When protecting assets for heirs, Rudy offers a unique type of trust that he says he coined as a “Heritage Trust.” This is a special trust set up by parents for their children. A Heritage Trust offers extensive benefits while providing immunity from asset exposure.
Estate planning is not exclusive to the wealthy and elite. Every person deserves to have their assets protected and used according to their wishes. Rudy says he and his law firm colleagues are there to ensure that is exactly what happens.
636.425.2926
LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE 10 DuBray Drive | St. Peters, MO 63376 em ClarendaleOfStPetersLIFE@ClarendaleOfStPeters.com We’re redefining senior living with independence at the forefront.
Senior living at Clarendale of St. Peters is anything but traditional. Why? We encourage and celebrate the independence of residents instead of focusing solely on their limitations. All are welcome to be themselves and make the most out of life.
Discover an integrated environment between independent living and assisted living, where residents share amenities, life-enriching experiences, and many laughs. It’s the perfect balance of freedom and support.
To learn more or schedule a visit, call 636-242-6096 or visit ClarendaleOfStPeters.com.
Transform Scars Into Superpowers
Sisi Siham Helps Women Rise Beyond Adversities
Sisi is so much more than her adversity. And she wants other women to understand that they are, too.
Siham “Sisi” Surgant is a mom. She speaks five languages and holds three degrees. She has traveled the world. She is a transformation coach, a designer and now a medalist in bikini bodybuilding.
But it’s her story of struggle that fuels her passion. The Cottleville woman was severely burned on her chin, midsection and legs from Moroccan tea that a family friend accidentally spilled on her in Germany when she was little more than a year old.
Sisi has taken that experience and her journeys around the globe to help others rise from the ashes, elevate their lives, and embody the best versions of themselves.
Visitors to her online boutique, ShopSIHAM, will discover a diverse range of offerings tailored to empower and inspire— from transformation coaching and styling services to exclusive collections of self-designed apparel.
“I especially love working with moms, women who’ve moved to new cities or countries, or those in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s who feel like, ‘I’m just a mom,’ or ‘I’m too old now.’ I’m here to show them what we, as women, are truly made of,” Sisi says. “It’s never too late to rediscover your potential, redefine your path and reignite your fire.”
ARTICLE BY ROBIN SEATON JEFFERSON
Born and raised in Germany to immigrant parents—her mother is Moroccan, her father, Tunisian—Sisi built a life in Germany and America from scratch. She has worked alongside renowned designers such as Yves Saint Laurent, Filippa K. and Calvin Klein.
“As a burn survivor and a double immigrant, I have faced adversity head on,” she says. “Now, I’m a proud mom of two little ones, and I still make it all work. I want to show women that they can do it too, that no matter the challenges.”
She says one of her most significant personal achievements was “stepping on stage for my first bikini bodybuilding competition, a deeply vulnerable moment as I showcased my body, scars and all. Despite the challenges, I not only competed but also won a medal. It was a transformative experience, teaching me the power of self-acceptance and resilience.”
Photo by Schyler Hohenberger
Sisi says her mission is to help women elevate their lives through building confidence, where she says “the magic happens,” by addressing their self-doubt and transforming their hardships and resilience into their “superpowers;" discovering their personal style; and focusing on their health through building sustainable habits with nutrition and exercise.
“I always thought I was very confident with my scars, but I found out going to meetings with other survivors, I was not,” Sisi says. “Now I want to help women turn their weakness
into super powers. I always felt less than everyone because I was not perfect. But now I feel like that is my superpower. Something I hated so much about myself is my superpower now.”
Her clothing brand, “MISAJO,” named for her daughter Mia, son Samson and husband John, partnered with Burns Recovered/ Midwest Children’s Burn Camp. ShopSIHAM, a brand rooted in Europe with rich influences from Andalusia, Morocco and Tunisia, donates a percentage of each sale to the organization. “I don’t believe it’s right to keep everything for yourself. That’s why my brand is so diverse, too. I hope it empowers women of all sizes, ethnicities and scars both internal and external.”
Despite traveling to 37 countries and experiencing life's twists and turns, Sisi found her true love in a St. Louis native, whom she met backpacking in Thailand.
ShopSiham.com
Photo by Schyler Hohenberger
Photo by Schyler Hohenberger
Smoked to perfection, our incredible TBR wings are a flavor experience you won’t forget! #WingWithUs on Tuesdays for 10 smoked wings/$12.50 Our talented team is here + ready to provide the ultimate dining experience in St Charles County!
ARTICLE BY ROBIN SEATON JEFFERSON
Taking Care Of Loved Ones
CaringLegends: Secure Compassionate Care Like Families Would Provide
It has been said that the best investment one can make isn’t in gold. It’s in the people you love. Pat McKay and the CaringLegends staff help people make those deposits every day.
“So many times, people want to take their loved ones to a facility, but the compassionate care they expect is sometimes not there,” says Pat, director of the St. Louis-based, in-home care services and social support agency. “So that’s what we do. We try to provide the care you would give to your loved one. And we give relief to the family so that when they visit, it can be family time, visiting. It won’t be a chore or working. It will be where a daughter can be a daughter and a son can be a son.”
Pat says CaringLegends professionals provide assistance with daily living, everything to help people age gracefully in their own homes. There are no standardized plans. Plans are tailored to individuals, she adds.
CaringLegend’s mission is “To improve the health and social lives of disabled and elderly individuals using a holistic healthcare approach and preventative health measures to enhance healthy lifestyles.”
Pat says CaringLegends employs trusted, experienced caregivers who are bonded and insured, national criminal background checked and fully referenced.
The company’s in-home health services provides nursing care, private duty and personal care, care management, Medicaid programs, consumer direct services and hospital care.
Companion services include live-in companion care, hospital stay/rehabilitation services, homemaker services, respite companion services, vacation or short trips, escort programs, Alzheimer’s and dementia companion care and Parkinson’s disease care.
CaringLegends also honors the special benefits offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for Veterans and surviving spouses, states Pat.
“Your loved one, or you, will never be left without care because a caregiver cannot make it in to work,” Pat says. “The office staff will always work something out where your loved one or you get the care desired. We believe in mission before commission, so during our initial visit, it's not about selling. It's about getting to know you and your specific needs.”
And she says it all makes a difference in people’s lives.
“One thing I’ve learned in people in general and in those who I’ve personally cared for, is that people who have one-on-one care, who are able to remain in their own homes, live happier, longer lives,” Pat says. “These people who have had good one-on-one caregiving, you can tell the difference.”
CaringLegends is located in St. Louis at 6300 Michigan Ave.
314.666.9550 CaringLegends.com
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“...people who have one-on-one care live happier, longer lives,” ~Pat McKay.
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ARTICLE BY KELLEY LAMM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINA IRIS SCHMIDT
CITY LIFESTYLE’S SOCIAL HOUR WAS AN ELEVATED EXPERIENCE TO COLLABORATE
The Social Hour
Stepping down beneath the surface, where a private passcode was the key to entry, guests were transported into an intimate world of elegance and charm. The Social Hour wasn’t just an event—it was an experience. The air hummed with laughter and conversation, connections unfolded effortlessly, and the ambiance was nothing short of sophisticated.
Chelsey Sweeten, Gordon Montgomery, Kelley Lamm, Chris Schreves
A heartfelt thank you to Chelsey Sweeten, Chris Shreves, and the team at Oak Street Inn & Lounge for providing the perfect setting, and to the servers at the newly opened Speakeasy Lounge for ensuring the evening flowed with grace and style. The indulgences of the night? Chef’s masterfully crafted sushi—flawless . Curated cocktails and libations—decadent. Every sip, every bite—pure perfection. For those who missed it, you missed something truly special. But don’t worry—this is only the beginning. And for those who were there, you already know the magic that unfolded. As publishers, our mission is simple: to create opportunities where business and community connect. This event was a testament to that vision, and we can’t wait to do it again. We look forward to socializing with you in your city in June! Cheers to our advertising partners, contributors and the businesses that bring our community together. Until next time…
A SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN ST.CHARLES COUNTY.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
APRIL 4TH-6TH
Builders St. Charles Home Show
St. Charles Convention Center | 10:00 AM
This Home Show offers free admission and free parking and gives attendees the opportunity to see, learn about and buy the latest home improvement products and services in a convenient, easy-to-get-to location. This Show spans a variety of products and services, including windows, doors, fencing, siding, decks, spas, gardening equipment, sunrooms and patio enclosures, kitchens and baths. Details at STLHomeshow.com/StCharles
APRIL 6TH
Moonshine Blues Bar Open Jam Hosted By Case 44
Moonshine Blues Bar | 4:00 PM
Jam out, have a drink and stop upstairs for barbecue. Case 44 will have microphones, two guitar amps, bass amp, drums and two to three monitors setup. Additional pieces, such as keys, will need to contact with the bands page prior to setup to talk with sound engineer if it’s alright and when to come for setup. Email case44.rocks@gmail.com.
APRIL 8TH
St. Charles Community College Open House
Center for Healthy Living, Dardenne Prairie | 5:00 PM
Learn about the programs offered at the Center for Healthy Living. Meet community partners who can discuss career opportunities and tuition assistance. Explore academic programs and ask questions. The gathering concludes at 7 p.m. SCC offers programs for culinary arts, agriculture, education, occupational therapy assistant, pharmacy tech, surgical tech, phlebotomy tech, patient care tech, certified nursing assistant and medical assisting.
We want you to have a colorful, individualized experience with an engaging eye exam, designer eyewear, & fun accessories. Invest in your vision and fun frames. ...Because life is too short to wear boring glasses.
We are a boutique optometry practice located in the heart of St. Charles, Missouri, on historic Main Street.
Dr. Julie Emming-Thomas | 636.393.8888 115 N Main St . Saint Charles, MO
APRIL 10TH
Book Signings
Ellbee's Gathering Spot | 12:00 PM
Five local authors and contributors will be on-hand in Wentzille to sign books: Kelley Lamm (Oh Olive), Starr Himmel (Songs In The Morning), Sherri Jost (Stronger Together), Tina Asher (Teertering) and Rhonda Travers (Tenacity). They'll be available until 3 p.m. For more details, call 636.887.2737.
APRIL 12TH
Adult Scavenger Hunt 2025 To Support MAD Dream Builders-Habitat For Humanity
Charles County
Waterbury Meeting Center, O'Fallon | 4:00 PM
Grab friends to join an Adult Scavenger Hunt for which teams of four to six hunters are sent into the wilds of St. Charles County to complete as many hunt tasks as possible in allotted 6-hour time. After hunting, participants head back for refreshments and the announcement of the winner. Tickets are $55.20 each; includes beer, soda, food, T-shirt.
GREENS:
GREENS INVEST IN YOUR DANDELION
Dandelion greens are a nutritious and easy addition to any meal, perfect for salads or cooked dishes. They are rich in vitamins A, C, K, chlorophyll, and fiber, making them a great choice for digestion and overall health. Their light flavor and texture enhance salads and sandwiches.
BROCCOLI:
Broccoli is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Known for being high in vitamins A, C, and K, it also contains important minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium. In addition, it’s a rich source of beta-carotene, flavonoids, and fiber. Whether raw or cooked, broccoli is an excellent choice for immune system support, making it one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available.
KALE:
Kale is loaded with essential nutrients such as vitamins C, B6, E, K, and manganese. It contains twice as much selenium as spinach and is an excellent source of calcium. Kale’s unique properties help bind to cholesterol and lower oxalate levels, which promotes calcium absorption and makes it suitable for those prone to kidney stones. Additionally, it provides eye health benefits, thanks to lutein, and its disease-fighting properties make it a great addition to salads, smoothies, and more.
ARTICHOKES:
Artichokes are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, which aids in digestion. They are a great source of plant protein, potassium, and antioxidants like polyphenols. Artichokes also provide essential nutrients, including vitamins C, K, folate, magnesium, and B vitamins.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Boost your health by adding a generous serving of fresh greens to your daily diet. While both cooked and raw vegetables offer health benefits, consuming them raw often provides the most nutrients. Raw greens are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, helping to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of disease.
ASPARAGUS:
Asparagus is versatile and can be enjoyed grilled, sautéed, baked, or even raw. Packed with vitamins C, E, B, K, folate, and copper, it’s a great source of fiber. It also helps lower cholesterol and provides a variety of antioxidants that aid in healing. Asparagus is a perfect side dish that complements both light and robustly flavored meals.
