KIDS & PETS
LOCAL SERVICES
GATEWAY DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES 50 YEARS
ARTS + CULTURE MORE THAN A DOLL
LIFE + CULTURE
PAINTING TO HEAL AND HOPE
Love Grows Here
Some magazines come together naturally. Others remind us why we do what we do.
Our Kids & Pets publication is one of those editions that holds a special place in our heart because it celebrates the incredible gift of unconditional love. Whether it comes from a child discovering the world with wonder or a loyal pet greeting us at the door after a long day, these relationships remind us what truly matters.
At home, our dogs, Olive and Louis, are much more than pets, they're family. They make us laugh, keep us company and somehow always know when we need a little extra comfort. That's why we were so excited to host our Cover Pet Contest. Thank you to everyone who entered and voted. We loved seeing your beloved companions, and we're thrilled to congratulate Bogey, our Top Dog and Cover Pet Winner! Every photo told a story, proving once again that life is simply better with muddy paws, wagging tails and unconditional love.
As we turned the pages of this magazine, we realized another common thread connects every feature, the power of believing in someone's potential.
You'll meet JT Thomas, whose life changed in an instant after a football-related spinal cord injury. Rather than allowing tragedy to define him, he chose a path of healing, hope and resilience through the transformative power of painting.
You'll celebrate 50 years of the Gateway Down Syndrome Association, an organization that reminds us every person has unique gifts to share and that every person belongs.
You'll discover how Olympia Dolls are inspiring the next generation by helping children see themselves reflected in the toys they love, encouraging confidence, imagination and inclusion.
These stories, along with so many others, remind us that love takes many forms. It looks like encouraging a child, supporting a family, embracing differences, believing in someone's future or simply scratching behind a favorite dog's ears.
We hope this month's edition inspires you to slow down, make memories and cherish the children, grandchildren and furry family members who make life so meaningful. They teach us to celebrate the little things, to love without conditions and to find joy in every season.
Here's to the kids who inspire us, the pets who love us unconditionally and the communities that remind us we all belong.
Cheers,
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Gordon Montgomery
gordon.montgomery@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kelley Lamm
kelley.lamm@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Casey Pierce | casey.pierce@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Kelcie Reed | kelcie.reed@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kali Kasprzyk, Kelley Lamm, Julie Brown Patton, Mel Boban, Kristi Sellers, Abigail Bosslet
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Janie Jones, Casey Pierce, Maggie Beadle, Leave It To Beaver Photography
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
Proverbs 3:5-6
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Abigail Fisher with Gateway Down Syndrome Association
Photography: Maggie Beadle
AUGUST 2026
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Laura Ritchie of Chesterfield was crowned Miss Missouri Senior at the Florissant Performing Arts Center. 2: A group gathered for a photo at the Spirit of St. Louis Airshow in Chesterfield. 3: A little boy showed off his Blue Angel 6 toy jet at the Airshow. 4: Anne Boedges of Anne-Marie Design Studio and David Sherwood host KTRS’ The Inside Out Show. 5: The Blue Angels performance could be seen overhead from Passiglia Landscape, Nursery & Garden Center. 6: Kimberly Zander and team celebrated the grand opening of K. Zander Jewelry at The District. 7: Chesterfield Parks staff and volunteers installed 250 American flags in Central Park honoring public servants.
LAURA RITCHIE
PASSIGLIA LANDSCAPE, NURSERY & GARDEN CENTER
K. ZANDER JEWELRY CITY OF CHESTERFIELD, MO
ANNE BOEDGES
SPIRIT OF ST. LOUIS AIR SHOW
8: A dog received plenty of pets from the 2026 West County Youth Police Academy attendees. 9: More than 100 youth attended the 2026 WestCounty Youth Police Academy with participating police agencies. 10: Children participated in face painting during Chesterfield’s free concert series featuring The Heydays.
CHESTERFIELD MISSOURI POLICE DEPARTMENT
CHESTERFIELD MISSOURI POLICE DEPARTMENT ANGEL AUDIO, SHANE PHENICIE
Anyone Can ‘Ride’ To End Cancer, Sept. 19-20, Assures PTC’s Eleanor Goedeke
17TH ANNUAL PEDAL THE CAUSE
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
WHAT IS PEDAL THE CAUSE?
"It's a charity bike ride (not a race) and community celebration that funds local cancer research at Siteman Cancer Center and Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children's Hospital. 100% of participant-raised donations seed, speed and lead cutting-edge cancer research. To date, we've raised more than $56 million, creating a real impact in fighting cancer."
HOW TO GET INVOLVED/HELP:
"Pick a route, establish a fundraising page, share the link and show up in September. There's a finish-line festival with food and live music. Most riders wouldn't call themselves cyclists; they're individuals who want to help people facing cancer. In addition to riding, register to volunteer or support at PedalTheCause.org."
WHO ORGANIZES THE EVENT?
"Pedal the Cause is an independent nonprofit organization, started in St. Louis during 2010 by two-time cancer survivor Bill Koman and his wife Amy. We operate year-round with a staff of nine and 32 board of directors. Staffers seek corporate sponsors so all funds raised by our riders can go directly to cancer research."
WHAT TO EXPECT FOR ACTUAL EVENT:
"PTC 2026 features seven course options (six road; one gravel), a signature Spin Zone, an Inspired virtual participation and Kids Challenge for youths 3-13. This year's event will be held Saturday, Sept. 19, and Sunday, Sept. 20. Saturday morning is devoted to the Kids Challenge. Saturday evening from 4-7 p.m. includes 'Taste The Cause' top-tier food and desserts plus live music. At 6:40 p.m., a procession of cancer survivors, thrivers and fighters walk through the crowd. Inspiring speakers start at 7 p.m.; fireworks close the night at 8 p.m.
On Sunday morning, a breakfast bar is offered 6-10 a.m. Beginning at 7 a.m. cyclists start at assigned times for all routes. An outdoor spin session at the venue is held while road riders are out. A post-ride lunch and celebration will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Live music and PTC merchandise are available until 3 p.m."
WHERE WILL THESE ACTIVITIES OCCUR?
"All outside at St. Charles Family Arena. For questions, call 314.787.1990 or email info@pedalthecause.org."
EleanorGoedeke
RSVP by 8/20/2026 to mboyle@travelleaders.com. Space is Limited.
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2
EVERY PERSON BELONGS
By Megan Grace
Gateway Down Syndrome Association: 50 Years Of Serving, Supporting And Celebrating People With Down Syndrome
ARTICLE BY ABIGAIL BOSSLET
Fifty years ago, seven mothers of children with Down syndrome gathered around a table with a simple but powerful goal: to create a better future for their children. It was 1976, and support for families was scarce. Parents often received devastating and inaccurate messages from medical
Strong Bones for Life:
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Any Age
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and their families. The celebration will culminate at the organization's 50th Anniversary Gala on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026, at The Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza St. Louis.
For Erin, the mission is also deeply personal. Her brother, Andrew Suelmann, who is now 40 years old, has Down syndrome.
“My parents had a very negative experience when he was born,” she says. “They were told they could place him for adoption and that they didn't have to take him home, but that was not an option for them. Fortunately, so much has changed. There's a much greater awareness of the joy, contributions and fulfilling lives people with Down syndrome can lead.”
She credits her brother with shaping who she is today.
“Andrew is the nicest man I know—kind, caring and incredibly thankful,” she says. “I would not be the person I am without him. Almost everyone who has someone with Down syndrome in their life will tell you they are better because of that relationship. They teach you to slow down and see the beauty around you.”
Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by the presence of an extra chromosome. It occurs in approximately one in every 691 live births, making it the most common chromosomal condition. While individuals with Down syndrome may experience developmental delays and certain health challenges, advances in medical care and increased opportunities for inclusion have dramatically changed outcomes over the past five decades.
In 1976, the average life expectancy for a person with Down syndrome was just 25 years. Today, many people with Down syndrome live into their 60s and 70s, attend school, hold jobs, live independently and contribute to their communities in countless ways.
Photo by Lisa Jenkins
Photo by Megan Grace
photo by Maggie Beadle
“The
By Megan Grace
Yet, Erin says there is still important work ahead.
“We're still educating healthcare professionals and working to ensure families receive accurate, up-to-date information when they receive a diagnosis. Every family deserves hope, support and the opportunity to see what's possible,” she says.
As GDSA reflects on its first 50 years, the organization remains committed to the vision that inspired those seven mothers in 1976: a world where every person with Down syndrome is valued, included and celebrated.
Erin says, “The story of Gateway DSA is really the story of thousands of individuals with Down syndrome and the people who love them. Our legacy is built on connection, advocacy and the belief that every person belongs.”
Painting To Heal And Hope
FOOTBALL INJURY FORCES TEEN TO REFRAME LIFE
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
and Coach
After 17-year-old Jatayvion “JT” Thomas suffered a football-related spinal cord injury that resulted in quadriplegia, the senior found an inspiring-to-all, different form of expression.
With the assistance of therapeutic art via Ranken Jordan's Care Beyond the Bedside program, JT is painting by using tools in his mouth to produce incredible works of art.
Kristin LaRose, MSN, RN, CRRN, NE-BC, ACHE, Ranken Jordan's chief nursing officer, says the therapeutic art program is made possible by the Arthur and Helen Baer Foundation as an example of Ranken Jordan’s initiatives focused on getting youths out of their hospital rooms and using the power of play to help them heal.
"One of our main goals at Ranken Jordan is to find something that our patients connect with during their time here, whether it’s golf, music or spending time outside. Finding that connection point can often be the key to their recovery and provide much needed joy for children going through so much," explains Kristin.
For JT, a resident of Palmyra, Missouri, art became a lifeline.
“It’s been a major change for me,” he says. “I’ve always been an outdoorsman, running around and playing sports. Everything happens for a reason, and I’m keeping the faith and hope strong. But it’s been a big change for the whole community I grew up with and all my friends and family.”
JT's interest in art somewhat stems from his father being an artist. Ranken Jordan's art teacher Julie Villhard thought art might be a natural fit for him.
"When Julie suggested that I try painting with my mouth, at first I laughed, but with her encouragement, I figured trying something new doesn’t hurt anyone,” JT recalls.
Painting takes your head away from things, JT shares. “You’re more focused on the painting than what’s going on around you. Going through an injury at 17 years old is tough and depression is a real thing, so painting gives me an outlet.”
Painting also is a source of camaraderie for JT during his time at Ranken Jordan, with his football teammates visit on the weekends and many have tried mouth painting.
JT’s paintings also are shared online on his "Four JT’s Journey" Facebook page, which has more than 8,300 followers. He sold some of his pieces to raise money for the Missouri nonprofit, Down Country, too.
Notably, his artwork was accepted for display in the annual "Teen Takeover—Young Artists Exhibition" at the Saint Louis Art Museum starting on May 1.
JT’s mother, Luchea Thomas, says she believes painting at Ranken Jordan has helped her son keep the faith following that horrible night on the football field. “It's been hard and very stressful. But I tell him you just gotta' stay strong. We’re going to get through this together. We’re not going to give up. I tell Julie every day that painting is what keeps him going,” she adds.
While focusing on restoring his mobility through physical therapy and occupational therapy, JT says he’s taking life day by day.
One recent, positive spotlight is JT, now 18 years old, proudly attended his high school graduation in May and was voted prom king. While he's a big fan of steak and potatoes, he loves cookies and cream ice cream. And he's motivated by the following mantra: "You can rise up from anything. You can completely recreate yourself and your future. Nothing is permanent. You're not stuck. You can learn something new. You can create new habits. All that matters is that you decide today and never look back."
“JT’s injury changed the path he was on, but it hasn’t changed who he is. A strong, kind, resilient young man with character and so much life ahead of him.”
LITTLE Animals Creating BIG MEMORIES
How Little Dreamers Barnyard Brings Magic Of Animal Connection To Celebrations And Beyond
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEAVE IT TO BEAVER PHOTOGRAPHY
Animals are more than just companions; they have the power to spread happiness, spark joy and bring calm to chaos. Sarah Case Murphy, founder and owner of Little Dreamers Barnyard based in Washington, Missouri, is passionate about the importance of animal interactions. She says she sees firsthand the magic that happens when kids, and all ages, interact with her miniature animals.
"After a major life transition in 2024, I decided to invest in sharing animals with others to bring unique enjoyment to celebrations and events," she states.
Both children and adults light up when they're able to not only see the animals but closely interact with them by petting, brushing, feeding and holding, she adds.
So many of Sarah's animals bring a first-time experience to children. The nature of the miniature breeds with which she offers experiences reduces apprehension that some have with larger animals, and also caters to bringing the animals indoors easily.
In a world of "things" and constant digital exposure, offering these real-life and hands-on experiences builds confidence, trust, compassion, patience, gentleness, logic and lasting memories. Sarah says at some Little Dreamers events, children are too apprehensive to even enter the pens, but by the end, they're sitting on the ground giggling about being affectionately licked by a new furry friend.
Animals have documented therapeutic effects on people. Sarah says, "I've been involved in counseling sessions that incorporate some of my animals, and I've watched as walls come down and milestones were achieved."
At senior living centers, Sarah says she often witnesses memories flooding back followed by happy tears.
"My hope when a party or event concludes is that people have learned something about the animals that they didn't know before, and that it sparks ongoing curiosity and investigation. I'm really overjoyed seeing the happiness in everyone when interacting with these miniature animals, carrying it over in how they approach relationships in their lives— with patience, gentleness and confidence," she attests.
Sarah with her own horse
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More Than A Doll
Next Generation
Oftentimes, children's entertainment is increasingly driven by screens and fleeting trends. Luckily, some toys are designed to leave something more lasting behind. Olympia Dolls is one of them, blending imaginative play with timeless stories that have inspired generations for centuries.
Founded by entrepreneur Jennifer Oz, Olympia Dolls introduces children to legendary female figures from Greek mythology through beautifully crafted dolls that celebrate courage, wisdom, creativity and independence. Rather than simply creating another collectible toy, Jennifer says she envisioned a line that would spark curiosity, encourage storytelling and remind children that some of history's greatest heroines inspired the world long before anyone imagined superheroes in capes.
According to Jennifer, “I had this idea for many years, but it was inspired and reignited by my daughter and the desire to finally bring it to life after a 30-year corporate career. I wanted to create meaningful dolls and stories that encourage girls to embrace their own unique strengths, abilities, and 'super-powers.' By learning about these timeless female figures, known for their courage, ingenuity, compassion and wisdom, and by playing with the dolls through open-ended storytelling, the goal is for girls to build confidence in themselves and their potential, while also having fun.”
Inspired by her own family's love of mythology, Jennifer says she recognized an opportunity to bring these powerful stories to life in a way children could understand and enjoy.
ARTICLE BY KRISTI SELLERS
The result is a collection that encourages kids to imagine their own adventures while discovering the values embodied by iconic characters such as Athena, Artemis and Venus.
“What makes Olympia unique is the combination of historical heroines, storytelling, creative story creation and open-ended, screen-free imaginative play, for a more meaningful play experience. Each doll is accompanied with her accessories, companion animal and short, illustrated storybook which allows kids to practice reading skills and then create their own scenarios through pretend doll play. In addition, we feature an opportunity to download a 'Create your own story' kit for free online to foster creative writing, drawing and personalized storytelling.” says Jennifer.
As children invent stories and adventures for their dolls, the hope is that they also begin to understand the characteristics that have made these legendary women lasting symbols across cultures. In doing so, play becomes an opportunity to build confidence, curiosity and empathy.
Jennifer states, "The customer feedback has been so rewarding. Parents have shared that their daughters read the stories, then begin acting them out and creating adventures of their own. One mother shared that her daughter loved her Olympia doll so much
How Olympia Dolls Inspire The
Photo by Alter’d Arrow Photography.
that she insisted on taking it with her at bedtime because she didn't want to be apart from it. I'm just so touched and happy to see that my hope of inspiring children through these stories and dolls is really resonating with so many families."
Parents, grandparents and educators continue searching for meaningful ways to encourage imagination in an increasingly digital world. Olympia Dolls offers a reminder that some of the most memorable adventures don't require batteries or Wi-Fi, just a story waiting to be told and a child ready to dream.
“Children who actively engage in pretend play not only develop social skills, but also build self-confidence, practice language and discover inner strengths, all while having fun,” says Jennifer.
In many ways, Olympia Dolls isn't simply preserving ancient myths. It's helping a new generation discover that courage, wisdom, and resilience never go out of style.
TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
AUGUST 2026
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 6TH
Ice Cream Social
East Pavilion At Central Park | 2:00 PM
Let’s cool down this summer by enjoying ice cream at Central Park. The session lasts until 4 p.m. The event is free but does require reservation at olderadults@chesterfield.mo.us. Call 636.537.4000 with questions.
AUGUST 7TH
Anthology: A Tribute To The Allman Brothers
Chesterfield Amphitheater | 6:00 PM
Danny Liston and Dickie Steltenpohl played in a Midwest band Mama’s Pride signed to Atlantic Records. Special guest will be Ghost Kitchen. Doors open at 6 p.m.; show starts at 7 p.m. Food Trucks: Theos Gyros, The MOObile and Mr. Papas 2 Go. Reserved seating is $28.83 per ticket and advanced general admission is $23.58 per ticket.
AUGUST 12TH
Older Adult Bingo
The Commons | 11:15 AM
Join 10 rounds of bingo and lunch to follow at 14885 Clayton Road. Cost is $7 per person; $3 for an extra bingo card. The event is slated to conclude at 1 p.m. RSVP to olderadults@chesterfield.mo.us.
AUGUST 14TH
Sounds Of Summer Concert: The American Ride
Chesterfield Amphitheater | 5:30 PM
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary at a free Sounds of Summer with The American Ride: Toby Keith Tribute live. No tickets required; however, all guests will still go through the security checkpoint. For Sounds of Summer Concerts, guests are welcome to bring in their own snacks (no full meals) and alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages (no glass).
AUGUST 18TH
Golden
Lunch Bunch
Yellowstone Cafe | 11:00 AM
The Golden Lunch Bunch program is an opportunity to enjoy lunch until 1 p.m. with good company, while trying different restaurants. Each person is responsible for the cost of their food, beverage and transportation. Organizers indicate there are 20 spots available.
AUGUST 27TH
Book Club
Chesterfield City Hall | 6:00 PM
Attendees will get together and talk about books until 8 p.m. The book of choice to read then talk about is Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir. It promises to be a fun, relaxing time. Adults of all ages are welcome to join.
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ARTICLE BY KELLEY LAMM
WAGGING TAILS, PLAYFUL Personalities
MEET BOGEY AND FAVORITE FURRY FRIENDS CHOSEN BY COMMUNITY VOTES
From wagging tails and playful personalities to unwavering loyalty and unconditional love, our pets truly become family. That's why we were so excited to host our first Cover Pet Contest and celebrate the special companions who fill our homes and hearts with joy.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who entered, voted and shared the incredible stories of their beloved pets. The enthusiasm from our community was overwhelming, making this year's contest a wonderful success.
We're thrilled to introduce Bogey, our Kids & Pets edition cover winner! Congratulations also to our Top 5 Fan Favorites, whose adorable photos captured the hearts of our readers.
Every pet has a story, and every story reminds us of the happiness, comfort and unconditional love our four-legged friends bring into our lives each day. We hope this feature inspires you to cherish every muddy paw print, wet nose and tail wag.
Life is simply better with muddy paws wet noses and unconditional love.
4th Runner-Up Max & Charlie
1st Runner-Up Amelia Rose
3rd Runner-Up Bennie
5th Runner-Up Luna
Bogey, Pet Cover Winner. Photo by Casey Pierce
2nd Runner-Up Ruby
