March 17, 2023

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“BRILLIANT,SUBVERSIVE,AND ”

“NIVENTVIE , NIVGIORANITG, ENERGIZING,AND HOPEFUL” –FORBES

the Saint Louis Ballet at its 2023 En Pointe Gala on May 23, honoring Blanche Touhill (pictured). Learn more about the event and the ballet’s spring performances

on p. 8. Photo by Christina Kling-Garrett.

NURSE THANKA

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LADUENEWS

PUBLISHER IanCaso

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Get our best stories delivered weekly to your inbox with our suite of newsletters by signing up on the laduenews.com homepage.

I have to admit something – pulling the results of our annual readers’ choice Platinum List awards feels like Christmas morning to me every single March. Ladue News readers, after all, know our community best –and, might I say, they have excellent taste.

On p. 29, it’s our pleasure to present the winners of 2023. Check it out to be the first to know about all of the must-eat, must-shop, must-try, must-rememberfor-later gems of the metro area. Each of this year’s picks was diligently hand-selected and vouched for by so many dedicated readers.

I’m fairly certain most St. Louisans recently felt that same Christmas-morning spirit during the first-ever St. Louis City SC game. On p. 20, contributing reporter Connie Mitchell speaks with the chief experience officer for St. Louis’ new Major League Soccer team about what fans can expect at CITYPARK this season.

And for those of you who read “Christmas” and had terrible winter-weather flashbacks, flip to p. 65, where copy editor and staff writer Madeleine Ackerburg shares expert tips for crafting the perfect spring capsule wardrobe.

Congratulations, once again, to all of those recognized in this year’s Platinum List section.

And happy reading!

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Looking for something to do around St. Louis this spring?

From volunteering with animals to learning new skills to staying active, discover local activities to entertain and inspire kids and teens. Visit laduenews.com for 11 ways families and children can spend spring break in the St. Louis area.

IG P h OTO BY STEVE JETT; TWITTE r P h OTO BY IZ a I ah JO h NSON

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SAINTLOUISBALLET

Growing and Supporting theArts

St.Louishasanexemplaryartscommunity thatisgrowingeveryday,andnothing showcasesthatgrowthbetterthanthe SaintLouisBallet.

“UndertheleadershipofthewonderfulGen Horiuchi,SaintLouisBalletgrewfromasmall civicorganizationtoaworld-renownedballet madeupof21dancers,”explainsSaintLouis Ballet2023GalaChairpersonAllisonBenney. “Wearetheonlyresidentballet companyinSt.Louis.

Peoplewhoattendour performancesare supportingoutstanding dancerswhohave comefromallover thecountrytolivein ourcommunity.”

TheSaintLouisBallet isstillgrowingandrecently expandedbyaddinganew, largerstudiothat’sperfect fordailyrehearsalsand conditioning.Inthefall,theballetalsolaunched asecondcompanythroughtheProfessional TrainingProgram,allowingdancerstotrainand transitionfromstudentstoprofessionalswhile

growingthecompanyfromwithin.

However,Benneysaysthatthechangethe SaintLouisBalletismostexcitedaboutisthe additionoflivemusictoitsperformances.

“Livemusicenhancestheaudience experiencebycombiningthelushsoundsof livemusicwiththeartandtalentoftheballet company,”shesays.“Wearelookingforwardto performing‘SwanLake’accompaniedbythe SpringfieldSymphonyOrchestrahereat theendofApril.”

Thisspringperformance,liveatthe TouhillPerformingArtsCenterfrom FridayApril28toSundayApril-30,is thefirsttimetheSaintLouisBallet willbeperformingthefulllengthof “SwanLake”since2016.“‘SwanLake’ givesthedancersauniqueopportunity tostepintocharacteranddeliveran extremelydynamicperformancethrough story-tellingandemotionalchoreography,” Benneysays.

Following“SwanLake,”theSaintLouis Balletwillbehostingits2023EnPointeGala onSaturdayMay13atTheChaseParkPlaza. Thisyear’sthemeis“RaisetheBarre”,anodeto the1920s.Theeveningincludesacocktailhour,

seateddinner,auction, dancing,andthe highlightofthenight –aliveperformance bySaintLouisBallet. Ticketsareavailable onlineatstlouisballet. org/gala2023.

“Wearehonoring BlancheTouhill, chancelloremerita oftheUniversityofMissouri-St.Louis,”Benney adds.“Ourhomevenue,thebeautifulTouhill PerformingArtsCenter,wasbuiltunderher leadershipasUMSL’schancellorfrom1991to 2002.Wearesogratefulforallshehasdonefor theSt.Louisartscommunityandlookforward tohonoringheratthegala.”

Benneyconcludesthatthroughoutallofits growth,theSaintLouisBalletcontinuestohave astrongcommitmenttoeducationandoutreach. LearnmoreaboutthefreePointeToSucceed programandmoreonitswebsite,aswellashow youcansupportSaintLouisBallettoday.

SaintLouisBallet,218THFBlvd.,Chesterfield, 636-537-1998,stlouisballet.org

ByMaggiePeters |PhotosbyChristinaKling-Garrett

By Maggie Peters | Photos by Christina Kling-Garrett

AllisonBenneyandPatWhiteside, SaintLouisBallet2023GalaChairs

Jointhecelebrationtohonorthe2023WomenofAchievement

KatherineGlynnAnderson ♦ ImpactfulLeadership

VelmaBailey ♦ YouthEnrichment

BethBoggs ♦ FeedingOurCommunity

RolandaFinch ♦ Caring&Compassion

JudithGarfinkel ♦ Arts&Education

LindaHunter ♦ HumanitarianConcerns ErinKramer ♦ SpiritofGiving

KristinaLe ♦ MulticulturalAdvocacy

ChristinePennell ♦ HumanWelfare

GabrielaRamirez-Arellano ♦ SocialEnterprise

WomenofAchievementLuncheon ♦ Tuesday,May9,2023

TheRitz‐Carlton,St.Louis

MakeYourReservationsNow

www.woastl.org/eventorsendchecksto:

BRONZESPONSORS:Claire&Dr.ThomasApplewhite

AGAINST THE ODDS Spring Into Volunteering

By Brittany Nay

This spring and beyond, lend a helping hand to families and furry friends throughout St. Louis with these noteworthy causes.

American Red Cross

Answer the Greater St. Louis Chapter’s call for volunteers at fire responses and blood drives.

“Our volunteers love that they are able to help make a difference in the lives of people in the local community,” says Beth Elders, executive director of the Greater St. Louis Chapter of the American Red Cross of Missouri and Arkansas. “Whether [that means volunteering] after a disaster like a home fire or flood, helping our military members and veterans or assisting at a blood drive.”

American Red Cross, 10195 Corporate Square Drive, St. Louis, 314-281-7968, redcross.org/volunteer

Animal Protective Association of Missouri

Be a dog walker, foster a pet or help with laundry and dishes at the Animal Protective Association’s Olivette and Brentwood locations. The Brentwood center also needs cat room attendants, as well as morning cat and dog room cleaners.

“Volunteering helps us connect even more pets with people,” notes KT Stuckenschneider, APA director of marketing.

Animal Protective Association; 1705 S. Hanley Road, Brentwood; 10521 Baur Blvd., Olivette; 314-645-4610; apamo.org/get-involved

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri

Mentoring with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri can create an enduring relationship for an adult and a young person, according to Kristen Slaughter, the BBBSEMO interim chief executive officer and chief operating officer.

“You’ll be a part of their lives as they grow and flourish,” Slaughter says. “And you’ll experience

the fulfilling joy of partnering to shape who they will be in the future.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri, 501 N. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, 314-361-5900, bbbsemo.org/volunteer

Girls Scouts of Eastern Missouri

Help form future leaders as a program role model for Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri.

“I was a Girl Scout in my youth, and I love that I get to be a part of that experience for this current generation of girls,” shares Danielle Lombardo, Girl Scout program role model. “There are so many opportunities for program role models, from outdoor exploration to building robots!”

Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri, 2300 Ball Drive, St. Louis, 314-592-2300, girlscoutsem.org

Operation Food Search

Feed your neighbors at Operation Food Search, where individuals and groups can pack boxes of food, assist at nutrition education classes in the community and harvest produce from local farms.

“There is a meaningful activity for everyone,” says Jocelyn Fundoukos, OFS director of communications. “Our dedicated volunteers make a huge impact on our work, contributing thousands of hours every month and saving us over $1 million each year.”

Operation Food Search, 1644 Lotsie Blvd., St. Louis, 314-726-5355, operationfoodsearch.galaxydigital.com

St. Louis Arc

Coach sports, attend dances and assist with cooking classes and special events at St. Louis Arc, a nonprofit empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“Volunteers have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the people we support,” notes Megan Eader, volunteer manager at St. Louis Arc. “We are committed to finding the right fit for you and the people we support.”

St. Louis Arc, 1177 N. Warson Road, St. Louis, 314-569-2211, slarc.org/get-involved/volunteer

American Red Cross

Animal Protective Association of Missouri

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri

LITTLE PARKS, BIG FUN

By Alecia Humphreys

Once the weather starts to warm, parks become packed with families yearning for fun and fresh air. Whether your littles love to speed down slides, soar on swings or climb to their hearts’ content, these little parks are full of big fun for the entire family to enjoy!

Avery Park

Avery Park is a tiny but mighty park showcasing a crazy cool playground with a rope climbing wall, suspended circular climbing rings, drums and more. The site also has swings, a misting station and walking paths for a plethora of play opportunities for all ages.

Avery Park, 225 Avery Drive, Kirkwood, kirkwoodparksandrec.org

Benton Park

With a lavish lake, fabulous fountain and overall great grounds, Benton Park is a beaut! Plus, Benton Park has a playground packed with swirly slides, climbable structures and more that your littles will love.

Benton Park, 3100 S. Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, stlouis-mo.gov/parks

Greenwood Park

Greenwood Park might be a pocket park within Maplewood, but it’s packed full of fun. The playground features a single baby swing and a standard swing in addition to a tunnel, rock wall and several slides. There’s also a digger for those kids who you just can’t seem to keep away from playing in the dirt.

Greenwood Park, 7211 Kensington Ave., Maplewood, cityofmaplewood.com

Lafayette Park

It should come as no surprise that Lafayette Square is home to a park that is as picturesque as the neighborhood in which it’s nestled. With its lovely lake (equipped with iconic iron bridges), towering trees, historical walking tours and a petite playground, Lafayette Park is worth the stop to take in some stunning landscapes and fabulous fun.

Lafayette Park, 2023 Lafayette Ave., St. Louis, stlouis-mo.gov/parks

Tilles Park

Kids and parents alike will adore Tilles Park.

Home to two playgrounds, trails, a spray fountain play area, tennis courts and more, Tilles Park has plenty to offer for the shortest of stops or a funfilled day of adventure.

Tilles Park, 9551 Litzsinger Road, St. Louis, stlouiscountymo.gov

Turtle Playground

Although Turtle Playground is a smaller slice of Forest Park, it can be considered a sincere standout for fun. Turtle Playground features (you guessed it) enormous tortoise sculptures, oversized turtle eggs and more for your kids to climb on.

Turtle Playground, 5595 Grand Drive, St. Louis, racstl.org/public-art/turtle-playground-park

Walker Park

Walker Park is small but sweet. It features activities for all ages, including walking paths, a playground and game tables. Plus, kids will love seeing the bronze turtles and taking a seat in the unique butterfly chair!

Walker Park, 135 E. Washington Ave., Kirkwood, kirkwoodparksandrec.org

BUSINESS NOTES Play Local

By Connie Mitchell | Photos supplied

When it comes to choosing toys for little ones (or even not-so-little ones) in your life, there’s always the typical mass retailer or the online vendor, but why not instead purchase truly unique and creative products and support a local business?

Frisco Train & Toy Store

If you’re looking for wooden trains and accessories, this is the place to go. “While the Frisco has grown to encompass many categories of toys, our wooden trains and accessories are definitely our top sellers,” says owner Tom Berry. “Whether you are looking for a complete layout or a single piece of track, the Frisco has always been a destination for wooden train enthusiasts.”

Frisco Train & Toy Store, celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, also has a wide variety of other toys, games, books and crafts in a hands-on environment that includes a 16-foot, multi-level train table and other demo tables where kids can test out the goods. “We also host birthday parties on our second floor, providing a unique and fun experience for any budding engineer,” says Berry, who operates the store with his wife, Kristin.

Frisco Train & Toy Store, 24 Front St., Valley Park, 636-529-1660, friscotrainstore.com

Honeycomb

Honeycomb is more than just a toy store. The business runs on a “shop and play” concept with both a retail aspect and a studio for classes, birthday parties and playtime sessions. “Our most popular retail items are the Wobbel Board, arts and crafts items, books and baby shower gifts,” says Zoe Kaemmerer, who owns the store with Angela Giancola.

The store offers art workshops and Wobbel Gym classes where children can explore their creativity and develop skills in a safe and stimulating environment.

Honeycomb, 1641 Tower Grove Ave., St. Louis, 314-202-8237, ihearthoneycomb.com

Imagination Toys

Just as the name implies, Imagination Toys offers high-quality educational and creative toys to spur children’s imaginations and encourage original thought. “Customer service is at the heart of what we do,” says Sally Kriegel, who co-owns the shop with Lisa Adorjan. “We strive to assist each person who walks into the store to find that special item that will create excitement

and joy, whether that’s a toy for a birthday party or something new for their children or grandchildren. We are always adding great new toys while maintaining a large selection of traditional favorites, children’s books, dolls, games and puzzles for the whole family to enjoy.”

Among the most popular items is the Toniebox, an imagination-building, screen-free digital listening experience that plays stories, songs and more. As spring emerges, outdoor games become more sought-after, including Sauce Toss, a backyard hockey game, and Paddlesmash, which has elements of pickleball. And don’t miss the wide array of plush Easter bunnies waiting to hop on into a special Easter basket this year.

Imagination Toys, 9737 Clayton Road, Ladue, 314-993-6288, imagination-toys.com

Frisco Train & Toy Store

Honeycomb

Imagination Toys

STL SOCCER SOCCER Starts

StartsStrong

ST.LOUISCITYSC, ST.LOUIS’MAJOR LEAGUESOCCER TEAM,BRINGS PASSIONAND EXCITEMENTTO THENEWCITYPARK STADIUMIN DOWNTOWNWEST.

MattSebekapologizesforhis hoarsevoiceandclearshis throat.“Myvocalcordsare stillrecoveringfromallthe excitementoftheweekend,”hesays.The chiefexperienceofficerforSt.LouisCity SC,St.Louis’newMajorLeagueSoccer team,spent90minutescheeringfromthe standsasCitySCbeatAustinFCintheir MLSdebutonFeb.25atQ2Stadiumin Austin.Andhisenthusiasmisstillhighas heanticipatestheteam’sseasonofhome gamesatCITYPARK,anopen-air,22,500seatvenueinDowntownWest.

Forthosewhoareunfamiliarwith Major LeagueSoccer,Sebekcharacterizes thematchesasa“communitygetting togetherfor90minutesofextremeenergy andpassion.Tohaveover22,000people in thestadium chanting andsinging in unisonis an experience unlike anything in Americanprofessional sports.”

St.LouisCitySCplayerscomefrom multiplecountriesandrepresentan athleticmeltingpotofresoundingtalent fromaroundtheworld.Thisglobalaspect ofprofessionalsoccer,asseeninthe popularityoftheWorldCup,bringsmore Americanfanstothesport.

“Alotofpeopleareinterestedinthe

ByConnieMitchel |PhotosprovidedbySt.LouisCitySC

“A lotofpeople are interestedin the game,”Sebeksays. “Theymightnotknow alltherules,butIthinkwecanallconnect to thepersonalities on theteam.We’ve really pushed ourplayersandcoachesto the forefronttohelp peoplelearnabout them.”Priortoattendingamatch,Sebek suggestschecking outtheteam’swebsiteor downloadingtheSTLCITYSCapp, which offersa searchablerosterofstatsand backgroundinformationon each player

Oneoftheuniqueaspectsofsoccer compared to other professional sports,of course, isthenonstopplaythatcontinues fortwo 45-minutehalves. “There’s nothingtohidebecause thereareno stoppages,”Sebeksays. “Theenergyand passioncontinueto build,andyou can feelthecrescendo. It’safastgameand fullofenergy.”However,thespeedofthe 90-minute playingtime doesn’tmean fans willbequicktoleaveCITYPARK, asthe stadiumisadestination where attendees canfindsomeofthebestinSt. Louisfood and culture.

“Ourclubhasworkedtirelesslyover thepastfewyearstocurateoneofthe mostuniqueandspecialmatchday experiencesinMajorLeagueSoccer,” Sebeksays.Thein-stadiumfoodprogram, CITYFlavor,featuresfoodpartnersthat represent authenticregional tastes, fromvendorswithestablishedSt.Louis restaurantstoup-and-comingfood trucks.“Everymatchwillfeellikeafood festival,”Sebekadds.CITYPARKisa cashlessvenue,soindividualscanenjoya “frictionless”experiencewith checkoutfreeshoppingandhigh-speedWi-Fi.

Matchattendees alsoare encouraged tobrowsethestadium’spermanentart installationinCITYPARK’ssouthwest corner.Designedbynationallyrecognized

localartistDamonDavis,“Pillarsofthe Valley”isatributetotheresidentsofMill Creek Valley,thepredominantlyBlack neighborhoodthatwasdemolishedin the1950sforurbanrenewal.CITYPARK sitswithintheneighborhood’sformer footprint.“With‘PillarsoftheValley,’ wearesettingoutnotonlytobring awarenesstowhathappenedtoMill Creek Valleyandhonor itsresidents butalsotobringaboutacontinued conversationabout racial inequityand change,”Sebeksays.

Oneofthemosthighlyanticipated gamesoftheinauguralCitySCseasonis theMay20matchatCITYPARKagainst SportingKC,KansasCity’sMLSteam.On Sept.2,SportingKCwillhostCITYSC atChildren’sMercyPark,aMLSstadium thataccommodatesmorethan18,000 fansinKansasCity,Kansas.

“St.Louisexistsinthemiddleofa lotofMajorLeagueSoccercities,”Sebek says.“TheideathatKansasCityfanscan travelhereandbehomesleepingintheir bedsthatnightiftheysodesiremakes itarealEuropean-styleawayday.Sitting inthemiddleofChicago,Nashvilleand KansasCity,we’reexcitedtoshowsome Midwesthospitality.Wewantpeopleto travelhere.”

Sebeknotesthat CitySC’slocal ownershipgroup hasworkedhard to bringoneoftheworld’smostpopular sportstoSt. Louis. “CITYPARKisreally areflectionoftheprogressofSt. Louis andtheregion,”henotes. “It’safully immersiveexperiencethat invitesyou toconnect tothegamelikeyou never havebefore.”

CITYPARK,2100MarketSt.,St.Louis, stlcitysc.com

Ourclubhasworkedtirelessly overthepastfewyearstocurate oneofthemostuniqueandspecial matchdayexperiencesinMajor LeagueSoccer.

– Matt Sebek

Impeccablymaintained&updated,thisclassicArts&Craftsinspiredhomewasbuiltin 1918.ConvenientlylocatedneartheBJCMedComplex,just3blockstoEuclidAve.and directlyacrossthestreetfromForestParkwhatmorecouldyouaskforinalocation. Elegantentryfoyerwithasignificantarchitecturalstaircaseleadingto2nd flr.with largeleadedglasswindow.Graciousformalliving&diningrooms,large,southfacing sunroom,informaldiningroom/butler'spantry.Updatedkitchenw/Gaggenau,Miele, Viking&Sub-Zeroappliances+walk-inpantry.Spaciousprimarysuitew/attached sittingroom,3add'lbdrms+2fullbathscomplete2ndFlr.3rd floorfeaturespalatial studio/5thbdrmw/2walk-inclosets,luxuriousmarblebathwithsteamshower.

Blossom Boss

ByBethanyChristo | PhotosbyChrisBauer

WhenTeeJohnsonreachesforthe flowersshe’sgoingtomakethe“stars oftheshow”inherarrangements, she’sdrawntopastels–blushes,sage greens,lavenders–andlovesasoft-butdramaticshapewithamixtureofmasculineandfeminine elements,similartothespiky-but-daintyAfricanproteaor thecurvy-yet-complexranunculus.“Ithinkitmirrorsmy personality;I’vealwaysbeenabitofacontrast,”Johnsonsays. “I’mdaintyandgirlyincertainways,butIcanalsohavethis hardexteriorandcanbealittlerougharoundtheedgesuntil Igettoknowyou.”

Thatcontrastexistsinthenameofherfloral-arranging business,DirtyBlossom,thatmixesgritandgravelwith prettyblooms.Johnsonstartedhercompanywiththatname asavintageclothesretailerbasedinChicagoin2010,but itslowly(andserendipitously)evolvedtoencapsulateher growinginterestinflowerarranginganddesign.Today,she offersthreearrangementsizes(petite,mediumandlarge)of fresh,hand-picked“moderndaybloomsandbeauty”viaher websitethatcomewithapremiumreusablevaseanddelivery inthecityandmetroarea.Shealsosetsupatpop-upsand workshopsafewtimesamonthtoteachpeopleaboutthe craft,withthemescenteredaroundvibingwithyourgirlson achillSundayorfemaleempowermentand“puttingonyour crown.”InMay,JohnsonwillhostaMother’sDayworkshop tohonorallthatwomendoinfamilies,homes,communities andbusinesses.

“WhenIfirstgotintoflowerdesign,somanypeoplewere like,‘Oh,you’redoingweddingsorfunerals,’”Johnsonsays. “Tome,‘moderndayblooms’iswaybeyondthosetwothings. It’s educatingpeopleon floraldesign,workshops, flowers asart,flowersforeverydayinyourhome…notlimiting yourselftoonething.Itdoesn’thavetobeaspecialoccasion oragiftforsomeone;it’sjustbecauseyouwantthem.”

ForJohnson,thefleeting,fragilenatureoffloralsasan artmedium,combinedwiththewayitmakesherandthose she’steachingslowdownandbreathedeeply,iswhatgives herpurpose:“Whatdrewmetoflowersisitforcesyoutobe present.I’msuchabusybodyandfeellikeIalwayshavetobe doingsomething,sowhenIworkwithflowersinmystudio, I’mthere;Ihavetotakemytime,andit’snotarush.

“Ihavethisquotetattooedonthebackofmyarmthat says,‘Bloomuntilyourpetalsfall,thenbloomagain,’and IthinkthatrelatestowhyIlovefloraldesignsomuch.It’s never-ending,andit’sarebirth.I’malwayscreating;I’m alwaysthinkingofwhatIcanlearnaboutthisflowerorwhat Icandonext.”

JohnsongrewupinSt.Louisandhasbeensurrounded byart,creativityandthefreedomtoexpressherselfher

wholelife. She’salwayslovedsketchingand journaling, andshedidfloral-basedcollage workforGhetto Blooms, amultisensoryart installationaboutinner-citylifeinNorth Cityinthesummerof 2019 thatshecurated withregional artists.She creditsher father, whoownedmultiple clothingstoreswhen Johnson wasyounger,asamajorinspiration behindher work.LikeJohnson, his creativity expandsintomultipleforms, ashenowownsa furniturestoreandworks closelywithinterior and decorating.

“Hedabbledinallthethingsheloves–dressingniceand decoratinghomes–sohebuilthisbusinessesaroundthat, andItakeafterhiminthatway,”Johnsonsays.Bothparents weresupportiveofhercreativepassionsandforgingher ownpath.“Askid,myparentsgavemetheoutlettobeweird andcreativeandtonotworryifotherpeoplethoughtitwas cool.Mydadisdefinitelythecreativefreespirit,justgoing foritwithoutworryingaboutwhatotherpeoplearedoingor saying–ifyouseethisthingyouwanttodo,doit.”

Tothatend,whenJohnsonmovedtoChicagoforschool andfoundedtheretail-basediterationofDirtyBlossom,she wasalsoworkingatMarcJacobs.In2013,aftertalkingto acolleagueonedayaboutheraffinityforfloraldesign,she gottodreamingabouthowshecouldmergeherinterests. Aroundthecornerwasasmallgrocerystore,Olivia’sMarket, andJohnsonwalkedinandinquiredwiththefloristifshe could apprenticeunder her,unpaid.Shequicklygaineda mentorandaneventualofficialinternship.By2015,Johnson startedgettingseriousaboutherpassionandholdingfloralarrangingpop-upshopswithDirtyBlossom,andin2019,she movedbacktoSt.Louis.Sincethen,she’sdroppedtheretail offeringsbutaddedHomeBodiin2022,herlineofcozyhome goodsincludingasoycandle,afleurbathoilandarosebath soak,whichisavailableonDirtyBlossom’swebsite.

“AnyapartmentI’vehad,I’vealwaystriedtomakeitfeel superwelcoming[with]goodvibes,”Johnsonsays.“I’man advocatefortakingtimetobewithyourownthoughtsand beinyourownspace;sometimesyouhavetoblockoutthe noiseandrechargefrombeingwithfamilyandfriends.”

Inthenextyear,Johnsonhopestofindabrick-and-mortar storefrontto hosther events to further buildandconnect withacommunity.Sheaddsadviceforanyonehopingto maketheirownflowerarrangements:“Idon’twantpeople tobeintimidatedbyit;youcandothat,”shesays.“Your arrangementdoesn’thavetolooklikemineortheperson nexttoyou;itjusthastobeyourown.”

DirtyBlossom,dirtyblossom.com

Di rty Blos som’s lushfloralar rangements bringmodern-daybeautytoeveryday bycele bratingimperfec tion.

Photo by Marley Billie D

SummerCamps Guideto

UrsulineAcademy

341SappingtonRoad, 314-984-2818, ursulinestl.org

Enjoysummer2023

atUrsulineacademy’s campus!Programs includevariousathletic campsandpartnerships withYMca,cOca, SaintLouischessclub, andMadScience. availableforPre-K through12thgrade, enjoyandparticipatein multiplecamps!Formore information,pleasevisit Ursuline’swebsite.

WhitfieldSchool

175S.MasonRoad,314-434-5141, whitfieldschool.org/about/summer-programs

ByMaggiePeters

Eachsummer,Whitfieldhostsavarietyofengagingandenrichingcamp options,includingcampWhitfieldWhitfieldSportscampsanditsnew WhitfieldSummerScholarsProgram.Beitonthecourt,intheartstudio, orinthesciencelab,campersareguidedbyWhitfield’sfabulousfaculty andcoachesthroughnewchallenges,team-buildingandfun!

ANNUALREADERS’CHOICEAWARDS

Presented by

Supporting Sponsor MarideVilla SENIORLIVING ServingSt.LouisSince1960

ByEmilyAdams

Everyyear,LadueNews’PlatinumListedition celebratesthebestofthebestinthemetroarea.From thesplurge-worthyrestaurantstothehottestboutiques totheservicesyoucantrust,ourPlatinumListwinners haveearnedtheirtimeinthespotlight.

Andforthethirdyearin a rownow,theywereall chosenbyyou.

A heartfeltandresounding“thankyou”toeveryreader whotookthetimetonominateandvoteforyour favorites.Yourvoicehasmade a differenceinhelping boththesebusinessesandthepeoplethatmakethem sospecialfeelappreciatedandacknowledged.

A bigcongratulationstoeachandeverywinner! Thankyouforallyoudoforourcommunity.

TheSupportYouNeed INTODAY’SHOUSINGMARKET

Inavolatilemarket,knowledgecanbeyourbestfriend.Laura McCarthyRealEstateworkstomakesurebothagentsand prospectivebuyersareintheknowoneverythingfrommortgage marketstolocaltrends.

“Everybodyhastobeknowledgeableandprepared,”saysLaura McCarthypresidentKathyBeilein.“Agentsneedtobereallyprepared andontopofthemarkettrends.St.Louishasalotofmicro-markets; Ladueisdifferent from Brentwoodisdifferent from Webster Groves. Youhavetobeinonwhat’ssellingandwhatdobuyerswant.”

Beileinaddsthatoneofthebiggesthurdlesinthehousingmarket rightnowisthelackofsupply,meaningthatlistingsthatdocomeup cansellasquicklyas24hoursfromwhentheywentup.Buyersneedto beontopofwhattheyreallywantandopentolookingatadjacentarea listingsthatmightsuittheirneeds.

“Agentsneedtoknowthemortgagemarketsothattheycanknow whatthebuyercanreallyaffordandhelpthemincreasetheirpurchasing power,”Beileinsays.“Valueisreallyimportantandabuyerneedsto knowthatifthey’repayingmorethanasking,thenit’sgoingtogive themwhattheywant.Youneedtokeeptheminformedandcurrent.”

Trendsinthehousingmarketcanquicklychange.Beileinadvises

thoseinterestedinbuyingorsellingtoresearchbeforehandby consultingbothnationalnewsandlocalagents,sincearticlespublished bylargerpublicationsmightnottakeSt.Louisdirectlyintoaccount whendiscussingmarkettrends.TheWallStreetJournal,forexample, mightpublishanarticlesuggestingreaderspostponesellinguntilspring –advicethatisn’tapplicabletoSt.Louis,sincethelocalspringmarket startsearlierintheyearwhencompetition islow.

Ontopofbeingeducatedonthehousing market,LauraMcCarthyagentsarealso knownfortheirtop-tiercustomerservice.

“Everyagentshouldbeveryresponsive andproactive,”Beileinconcludes.“It’s reallyimportanttousthatouragentsare trustworthyandgivegoodadvicebutarealso educated.Wespendalotoftimelistening andhelpingpeople findsolutions.”

MEETOURPRESENTINGSPONSOR

The Fabulous Fox Theatre The Diamond Bar

By Emily Standlee

Once the second-largest movie theater in the United States, The Fabulous Fox is the shimmering crown jewel of Grand Center and is well-deserving of its winning status.

Since opening in 1929, the Fox has appeared in films such as John Carpenter’s 1981 epic “Escape from New York.” Its red-and-gold, palace-style interior has played host to thousands of live performances, from rock ‘n’ roll shows to the third national tour of “Les Misérables.” The theater was even the backdrop for St. Louis native Chuck Berry’s 60th birthday party.

Today, the Fox continues its radiant legacy with an array of comedy shows, concerts and musical theater performances. For a behind-the-scenes look, guests can sign up for 90-minute walking tours, which include an organ concert and an invitation to explore the Fox’s five sprawling stories.

The Fabulous Fox Theatre, 527 N. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, 314-534-1678, fabulousfox.com

RUNNERS-UP:CITY MUSEUM SAINT LOUIS ART MUSEUM

EXPERIENCES | OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

By Madeleine Ackerburg

With such a perfectly tailored shopping experience, it’s no surprise that The Diamond Bar snagged LN readers’ top ranking this year. Opened in 2019 by owner Chris Phillips, The Diamond Bar excels in helping customers find the perfect diamond through their precise, one-of-a-kind selection process that pushes the boundaries of design and helps bring your vision to life. Each diamond is hand-selected through ethically sourced diamond cutters to ensure the best quality jewelry for an exceptional value. To top it off, The Diamond Bar boasts an exquisite environment with a fully stocked wet bar and an intimate, inviting atmosphere. With all of the thought and care that Phillips and his staff put into their work, you can ensure you’ll be taken care of from the moment you walk through the door.

The Diamond Bar, 13360 Clayton Road, Suite 103, Town and Country, 314-548-5100, thediamondbarstl.com

RUNNERS-UP:GENOVESE JEWELERS HUFFORDS JEWELRY

FASHION | MEN’S FASHION

Saint Louis Zoo Tailored Gents Custom Clothiers

By Emily Standlee

For a good reason, St. Louisans are apt to tell residents of other cities about the wonders of the Saint Louis Zoo. The 90-acre menagerie is top-tier in terms of animal management, research, conservation and education, and admission to the public is free.

The zoo began as an offshoot of the St. Louis World’s Fair, which was held in Forest Park in 1904. From the first Bear Pits of the 1920s to present-day classrooms, auditoriums, animal nurseries, restaurants and ever-evolving exhibits, the Saint Louis Zoo is known as one of the city’s best resources and destinations.

In north St. Louis county, the building of a second zoo campus – Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park – is currently underway. The pastures and habitats in this location will partially support endangered species, with animals arriving as soon as this year. The park is expected to open publicly in 2027. Saint Louis Zoo, 1 Government Drive, St. Louis, 314-781-0900, stlzoo.org

RUNNERS-UP:GRANT’S FARM

By Madeleine Ackerburg

For the third year in a row, LN readers have named Tailored Gents Custom Clothiers as their go-to men’s fashion clothier in the St. Louis area. Launched in 2015 by founder Darryl Tyler, Tailored Gents specializes in helping men feel and look confident by offering custom tailoring, incredible attention to detail and a highly individualized shopping experience. Tailored Gents’ knowledgeable staff records nearly 50 body measurements and posture readings during the fitting process to create your desired fit and guarantees that every garment is constructed with care. With their outstanding fabrics, precise fitting, timeless styles and high-quality suits, Tailored Gents Custom Clothiers is the total package for curating your perfect social and professional wardrobe. Plus, you can ensure that you’ll be the best-dressed at any suit-and-tie event!

Tailored Gents Custom Clothiers, 8001 Clayton Road, St. Louis, 314-527-0944, tailoredgents.com

RUNNERS-UP:THE NORMAL BRAND WOODY’S MENS SHOP

FASHION| ONLINEBOUTIQUE

LocalForeign

ByMadeleineAckerburg

LocalForeign’sfiberarthas capturedtheheartsofLNreaders whoselectedthelocalbusinessas theirfavoriteonlineboutiqueinSt. Louis.TakeonelookattheLocal ForeignInstagramorEtsypageand it’seasytoseewhy,astheirfuncolors andbeautifulstripedcrochetsare morethanenoughtobrightenyour day.Thebusinesstookoffin2020 whentwinsistersTiaraMartinez

andCiaraMartinfirstbegansellingrainbow-shapedyarnwallhangings andquicklyexpandedthebusinesstoincludeavarietyofenvironmentally conscioushomegoodsandaccessories.Today,LocalForeignofferssomething specialtofiteverypersonality,suchashand-knittedscarfs,croppedrainbow cardigans,chunky’90s-inspiredbeaniesandotherlovinglyhandmadeitems likeearringsandkeychains.Whetheryou’repurchasingoneoftheoriginal rainbowwallhangingsorbrowsingforyournextknittedaccessory,Local Foreignistheperfectchoiceforbringingasplashofcolortoyourhome orwardrobe.

LocalForeign,instagram.com/shoplocalforeign,etsy.com/shop/LocalForeign

RUNNERS-UP:CITYBOUTIQUE JACDESIGNS

FASHION| SHOESANDACCESSORIES

Laurie’sShoes

ByMadeleineAckerburg

Forthesecondyearinarow, Laurie’sShoeshasbeenchosenasthe favoriteSt.Louisfootwearsupplier forLadueNewsreaders.Thefamilyownedbusinessopenedin1951and hassinceexpandedtoincludefour locations,offeringmorethan60,000 differentoptionsinbothchildren’s andadultfootwearandaccessories. Ifthatimpressiveselectionseems daunting,youcanrestassuredthat theknowledgeableLaurie’sShoesstaffmembers,whoaretrainedinthelatest footweartechnologyandfashiontrends,canhelpyounarrowdownyour choices.Laurie’scarriesmorethan150popularbrandsforbothmenand womenandprovidestheperfectcustomizedshoppingexperiencetohelp everymemberofyourfamilyfindtheirperfectpair.Withoutadoubt,Laurie’s hasgoneaboveandbeyondtheirgoalofhavingthebestshoeselectionin townbybeingareliableproviderofcomfortableandfashionablefootwear. 9926ManchesterRoad,St.Louis,314-961-1642,lauriesshoes.com

RUNNERS-UP:BIGRIVERRUNNING MARMI

THANKYOU SAINTLOUIS!

LADUENEWS PLATNIUMLIST WINNER

Winslow’s Table AUDRA

By Madeleine Ackerburg

For the second year in a row, AUDRA takes home the title for best women’s fashion in the metro area. Designer Audra Danielle Noyes launched the brand during Paris Fashion Week in 2014 and has since brought her unrivaled, high-end quality clothing to St. Louis. AUDRA clothing is alluring and sophisticated, ensuring that you’ll be dressed to impress whether you’re walking to work or styling up a date-night outfit. Each piece is effortlessly elegant and designed to balance fashion and function for a variety of dynamic lifestyles, making any AUDRA item a flawless addition to your wardrobe. Staying true to its promise of sustainability, AUDRA is produced in limited quantities out of its women-owned factories in New York – meaning that your exclusive looks won’t be replicated elsewhere! The artistry in Noyes’ designs is apparent down to the tiniest details and ensures that anyone wearing AUDRA will feel confident, beautiful and luxurious.

9753 Clayton Road, St. Louis, 314-275-0758, audraofficial.com

RUNNERS-UP:JAC DESIGNS PAPERDOLLS

FOOD AND BEVERAGE | AL FRESCO DINING

Katie’s Pizza & Pasta Osteria

By Charlotte Renner

From its lovely patio spaces to its to-die-for burrata, antipasti and cocktails, Katie’s Pizza and Pasta Osteria comes as no surprise for this year’s Al Fresco Dining category winner. Accolades abound for this Italian joint, which has locations in Rock Hill and Manchester, Missouri, and another in the works to open in Ballpark Village later this year. The new location will be co-owner Katie Collier’s largest spot to date at a whopping 10,000 square feet, which will allow room for a private event space, expanded menu, pasta-making station, wood-fired grill and – you guessed it – another outdoor patio for open-air dining. One thing will stay consistent: Katie’s Pizza and Pasta Osteria will continue its Giveback Tuesday program at the Ballpark Village location, which has raised more than $300,000 for local nonprofits.

Katie’s Pizza & Pasta Osteria, multiple locations, katiespizzaandpasta.com

RUNNERS-UP:BROADWAY OYSTER BAR

OLIVIA ON THE HILL

By Charlotte Renner

Winslow’s Table has seen plenty of transformation over the years; it started out as a sit-down brunch spot and turned into a marketcentric locale during the pandemic. Now, it’s a counter service, “casual” eatery with a focus on seasonality: a reflection of its mother restaurant group Take Root Hospitality, no doubt. The word casual seems too plain to encapsulate what Winslow’s Table does, with artfully crafted pastries, galettes, sandwiches and more. You can also purchase Winslow’s prepared foods – think quiches, chicken pot pie, overnight oats and frozen pizzas. In the restaurant’s basement, The Cellar Shop keeps some of that market feel alive as a space selling gifts, food and wine, all from Midwest makers. Winslow’s Table, 7213 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, 314-725-7559, winslowstable.com

RUNNERS-UP:KATIE’S PIZZA & PASTA OSTERIA LADUE TACO

FOOD AND BEVERAGE | COFFEE

Kaldi’s Coffee

By Charlotte Renner

Kaldi’s Coffee is like St. Louis’ hometown version of Starbucks; it is one of the biggest coffee roasters in the area with 10 café locations locally and even more in Columbia, Missouri and Atlanta, Georgia. The first Kaldi’s location opened in Clayton’s Demun neighborhood in 1994 with a single coffee roaster in the front window. Now, all of the roasting is done in Midtown at the brand’s huge roastery facility. “Chasing quality” is a pillar of Kaldi’s ethos, exemplified by the company’s innovative barista training program and constantly changing seasonal specials, like the winter cinnamon cardamom latte, chipotle mocha, warm bread pudding and walnut carrot mini loaf.

Kaldi’s Coffee, multiple locations, kaldiscoffee.com

RUNNERS-UP:DEER CREEK

MAYPOP COFFEE & GARDEN SHOP

TOARRANGEAPRIVATESHOWINGAT

Pricedfrom$300,000

$950MonthlyMaintenanceFee CurrentlyAvailable

11XXVILLAESTATES

A2bedroom–2bathroomVillathathasbeenupgradedand remodeledthroughout.Thereisasittingroomoffthemaster bedroom,newkitchenandappliancesandgarage.

10XXVILLAESTATES

Fully remodeled1-bedroomvilla,withdenandsunroom

11XX

Extralarge1-bedroomVillawithsunroomand Hardwoodfloors

11XX Winterof2022

11XX Winterof2022

11XX

Fallof2022

UrbanChestnutBrewingCompany

ByCharlotteRenner

Maybeyou’veexperiencedthe communityfeelofUrbanChestnut’s TheGroveBierhall,withlinesofpicnic tablesandstringlightsadorningthe openspace.Perhapsyou’vesettledin atitsMidtownBiergarten,aformer 1920sgaragebuildingthat’sbeen renovatedintoatraditionalGerman biergarten.Or,maybeyou’veboughta packofUrbanUnderdogatyourlocal Schnuckstohelpoutlocalshelters. WhateveryourexperiencewithUrban Chestnut,you’llwalkawayfeelinglike you’vesupportedyourowncommunitywhilealsogettingatasteofEurope. BrewmasterFlorianKuplentemploysaphilosophyUrbanChestnutcalls“beer divergency”:a“newworldmeetsoldworld”brewingstylethatproducesboth modernAmericanbeerandclassicEuropeanbrews.Ifyoueverfindyourself inGermany,makethetriptoUrbanChestnut’sthirdbrewerylocation, HallertauerBrauerei,locatednearKuplent’shometown. UrbanChestnutBrewingCompany,multiplelocations,urbanchestnut.com

RUNNERS-UP:4HANDSBREWINGCOMPANY ROCKWELLBEERCO.

NathanielReidBakery

ByCharlotteRenner

Kirkwood,Missouri,ishometo oneofthemosthighlyacclaimed bakeriesinthecountry:Nathaniel ReidBakery.Chef-ownerNathaniel ReidearnedaGrandDiplomain CulinaryandPastryArtsfromLe CordonBleuinParis,France,and thenwentontodirectsomeofthe bestpastrykitchensintheworld. In2016,St.Louiswasblessedwith Reid’sreturntohishomestate ofMissouri,whereheopened NathanielReidBakery.There,you’ll findexquisitelymadeartisanpastries,bakedgoods,macaronsandother sweettreats.OneofReid’sfavoritesistheMargomacaron,whichfeatures strawberryChantillycreamandraspberry-lemonverbenaconfit. NathanielReidBakery,11243ManchesterRoad,Kirkwood, 314-858-1019,nrbakery.com

RUNNERS-UP:CLEMENTINE’SNAUGHTY&NICECREAMERY HANK’SCHEESECAKES

Olive + Oak

By Charlotte Renner

For a dining experience that’s just as friendly and welcoming as it is upscale and elevated, Olive + Oak should be first on your list to try. Sure, its ever-changing menu features dishes like charred octopus, cuminlime angel shark and sweet potato mulligatawny, but Olive + Oak is a neighborhood bar at heart. It regularly supports its fellow Webster Groves businesses by hosting markets in its event space, The Hall. The bustling restaurant is suitable for anything from a date night out to a celebration for special events. Don’t overlook the drink side of the menu; get your recommendations from the source by asking the bartender for some advice.

Olive + Oak, 216 W. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, 314-736-1370, oliveandoak.oohosp.com

RUNNERS-UP:BISTRO LA FLORAISON PAUL MANNO’S RESTAURANT

Marquard’s Cleaners

By Ashley Klein

Dry cleaning and textile restoration and preservation are among the services for which a solid recommendation is most invaluable. When you drop off your favorite shirt, your suede and leather goods, your drapery and rugs, your heirlooms – even your wedding gown – you want peace of mind knowing your precious cargo will return to you in mint condition. It’s safe to say that LN readers have given Marquard’s Cleaners their seal of approval time and again.

What’s more, convenience comes in tandem with service quality here: Marquard’s has locations in Ladue, St. Louis and University City and even offers home delivery, hitting each zip code in their St. Louis metro area route on a weekly basis.

Marquard’s Cleaners, multiple locations, 314-428-3700, marquardscleaners.com

RUNNERS-UP:BAND BOX CLEANERS STL VILLAGE CLEANERS

HOME | ANTIQUES

The Emporium St. Louis

By Ashley Klein

This isn’t your average antique store. The Emporium truly lives up to its name, boasting a wide variety of fine antiques, artwork, furniture, lighting and much (much) more. A drive down this stretch of Route 66 guarantees you’ll glimpse its hotpink storefront flanked by statues, planters, garden furniture and other outdoor accoutrements, just hinting at the extensive selection within. The Emporium offers a distinctly European sensibility, yet enough variety to suit any home décor style, so you’re sure to find your new favorite treasure each time you step inside the store or peruse the catalogue on their site and Etsy.

Looking to liquidate your estate? The Emporium does that too – one of the many reasons LN readers give the shop a shout-out year after year.

The Emporium St. Louis, 9410 Manchester Road, St. Louis, 314-962-7300, emporiumstlouis.com

RUNNERS-UP:GET YOUR PICKS ON 66 MALL THE HILL ANTIQUE MARKET

HOME | FURNISHINGS

Rusted Chandelier

By Ashley Klein

Our 2021 winner returns having since celebrated a decade in operation, bringing all the fresh décor and floral arrangements their shoppers have loved from the start. By offering a selection suited to a range of décor styles and price points (while maintaining its signature colorful, lively flair), Rusted Chandelier welcomes one and all to find the perfect new piece to brighten up their home. Options for custom floral arrangements include wreaths, centerpieces, garlands, swags and more.

Want to personalize the experience even more? The experts at Rusted Chandelier can mastermind your next home refresh with its interior design, holiday and event decorating services for customers in the St. Louis area. Rusted Chandelier, 118 N. Kirkwood Road, Kirkwood, 314-821-7881, rustedchandelier.com

RUNNERS-UP:THE EMPORIUM ST. LOUIS HEARTH AND SOUL

Flynn Landscaping Inc. Karr Bick

By Ashley Klein

To say Karr Bick has made a name for itself in the St. Louis metro area is an understatement – LN readers have made them a top choice year after year. And it’s easy to see why: The Karr Bick team employs the expertise of architects, interior designers, contractors and other specialists to ensure customers can find the solutions they need all under one roof.

#NothingOrdinary is the mantra for Karr Bick, and a quick glance at its interior design portfolio justifies the description. The style of each redesign is completely customized to each client, so whether your personal style is airy and minimalistic, bold and modern or warm and rustic – or something different entirely – Karr Bick is ready to make your dream a reality.

Karr Bick, 2715 Mercantile Drive, Brentwood, 314-645-6545, karrbick.com

RUNNERS-UP:MKS DESIGNS

YOURS BY DESIGN

By Ashley Klein

Flynn Landscaping prides itself in being a one-stop shop for all your landscaping needs – from basic maintenance, like lawn mowing and hedge trimming; to master gardener services, including care for flowers, fruits and vegetables; to tree services, including tree care, pruning and removal by a certified arborist.

Trusting your landscape design to Flynn means enjoying all the perks of a well-kept outdoor space without the hassle and guesswork. Flynn prides itself on offering professionalism, expertise and creativity at a fair price.

Ask one reviewer on their site, who says: “We have been using Flynn Landscaping for years and absolutely love them! The employees are friendly and professional, they do excellent work, and Mike and his team have gone above and beyond for us.”

Flynn Landscaping Inc., 314-243-6784, flynnlandscapinginc.com

RUNNERS-UP:CHESTERFIELD VALLEY NURSERY FRISELLA NURSERY

TwoLadies&ABucket

ByAshleyKlein

Lastyear’stopchoice returnsforanother winwithTwoLadies &ABucket,andit’sno mysterywhyLNreaders gavethemtheNo.1spot. TheexpertsatTwoLadies understandthathaving aprofessionallycleaned homeisn’tjustaboutmaintainingasparklingappearanceforwhencompany comesover–acleanermakesyourhomeahealthierplacetoliveandtakesa massiveloadoffofyourto-dolist,too.

TwoLadies&ABucketoffersgeneralanddeepcleaningonaone-time, seasonalorrecurringbasisforresidencesofallsizes–sowhetheryou’re lookingtocleanoutanapartmentbeforemove-inordoroutinemaintenance onyourhome,TwoLadieshasyoucovered.

TwoLadies&ABucket,11141SouthTowneSquare,SuiteC,St.Louis, 314-229-1736,twoandabucket.com

RUNNERS-UP:CLEANPRO KATIEMAE’SGREENCLEANLLC

HOME| HOMEREMODEL

MosbyBuildingArts

ByAshleyKlein

Aprojectasintensiveasa homeremodelrequiresapartner whosharesyourvisionandwho’s dedicatedtomakingitareality. AccordingtotheLNreaderswho madeMosbyBuildingArtstheirtop choicethisyear,theprofessionals atMosbyaretheperfectpartners forthejob.Mosbyoffersboth interiorandexteriorremodeling –evenaccessibledesignremodels thankstotheirteamofCertified Aging-In-PlaceSpecialists.

ExpertiseisthehallmarkofMosby’sservices:FullycustomMosby remodelsincludeworkingwithbotharchitectsanddesignerstoensure thatthefinalresultisbuilttocodeandbuilttolast–and,ofcourse, builtbeautifully.

MosbyBuildingArts,multiplelocations,314-909-1800,mosbybuildingarts.com

RUNNERS-UP:KARRBICK KBUILDDESIGN

FriendshipVillageAssistedLiving andMemoryCare

ByConnieMitchell

FriendshipVillageAssisted LivingandMemoryCarestrives tohelpseniorsmaintaintheir independencewhileofferingthe rightamountandtypeofassistance needed.Thestaffandfacilitiesin ChesterfieldandSunsetHillsare nationallyrecognizedforexcellence asGoldLevelMontessoriInspiredLifestyleCredentialedCommunitiesfrom theCenterforAppliedResearchinDementia.Thecredentialrecognizes“a seamless,symbioticcombinationofyourresidentsandyourfacility–where residentsandstaffhaveasharedinvestmentincreatinganenvironment thatgoesbeyondindustrystandardexpectationsacrossthelong-term caremarket,”accordingtoCARD.Residentsbenefitfromhealthservices, socialeventsandcommunityactivities.Services,amenitiesandfloorplans aredesignedtoappealtoindividualinterestsandpreferences,providinga comfortable,safeandenjoyablelifestyleforpeoplefromallwalksoflife. FriendshipVillage;15201OliveBlvd.,Chesterfield,636-898-8500; 12563VillageCircleDrive,St.Louis,314-270-7700;friendshipvillagestl.com

RUNNERS-UP:MARIDEVILLA

MCKNIGHTPLACEASSISTEDLIVING

SENIORS| INDEPENDENTLIVING

TheGatesworth

ByConnieMitchell

Active,independentseniors whowantlesshassleandmorefun outoflifefillTheGatesworth.The Gatesworthhasbeenrecognized forexcellencesinceitopenedin 1988,buildingareputationasSt. Louis’premierindependentliving seniorcommunity.Amongitsmany accolades,U.S.News&WorldReport includedTheGatesworthinitslisting of2022-23BestSeniorLivingCommunitiesinAmerica.Residentsenjoy creativeandvariedprogramsthatnurturebodyandmind,surroundedby naturalbeautyinTheGatesworth’slushgardensandgrounds.LifeatThe Gatesworthmeansnomoreworryingaboutkeepingupaproperty.Letothers dotheworkwhileyouenjoyacustomizableone-tothree-bedroomapartment withuptoalmost2,200squarefeetoflivingspace.Enhancedailylifewith sumptuousdining,culturalandeducationalprograms,fitnessandwellness opportunitiesandSpaOne,wherebeautymeetsrelaxation.

TheGatesworth,OneMcKnightPlace,St.Louis,314-993-0111,thegatesworth.com

RUNNERS-UP:FRIENDSHIPVILLAGEASSISTEDLIVING ANDMEMORYCARE MARIDEVILLA

ParcProvence

ByConnieMitchell

RecognizedbyU.S.News&World Reportasoneofthenation’sbest memorycarefacilitiesin2022-23,Parc Provencefocusesonexceptionalcare forthosewithdementiaandtheir families.TheParcProvenceapproach promotesphysicalandcognitive skillsundertheguidanceofmedical directorswhospecializeingerontologyanddementia,aswellasthefacility administratorwhohasalmost30yearsofnursingexperience.Residents receiveregularassessmentstoensuretheirindividualneedsandlevelsof carearemet.TherapiesandactivitiesoccurinParcProvence’sexceptional facility,designedtobeastimulating,safeandcomfortablehome.Fiveunique, interconnectedhouseholdsprovideresidentswithprivacywhilealsoensuring safetyandcommunity.Fromthearchitecturetotheinteriordesigntothe landscaping,ParcProvenceisahavenforitsresidentsandallowsfamiliesto restassuredthattheirlovedonesarethrivingwithfriendsandcaringstaff on-siteeveryday.

ParcProvence,605CoeurDeVilleDrive,CreveCoeur, 314-926-1960,parcprovence.com

RUNNERS-UP:FRIENDSHIPVILLAGEASSISTEDLIVING ANDMEMORYCARE MARIDEVILLA

SENIORS| SKILLEDNURSING

McKnightPlaceExtendedCare

ByConnieMitchell

Forseniorswhoneedmore helpthanassistedlivingprovides, McKnightPlaceExtendedCare offersskillednursingandsupportive services.Insomecases,short-term rehabilitationfollowingillnessor surgeryisneededuntiltheindividual isreadytoreturnhome.Othersneed long-termcaretomanagechronic conditions.Registerednursesprovide 24/7carewhilephysical,speechand occupationaltherapistsvisitresidents on-siteforrehabilitativetherapies.Residents’familiesstayintouchwith McKnightPlacestaffwhoarededicatedtocommunicatingregularlyand providingup-to-dateinformation.ButtheMcKnightPlacelifestyleisn’tjust abouthealthcare,asresidentsalsoparticipateinplannedsocialactivities thatallowthemtolivelifetothefullestoftheirabilities.

McKnightPlaceExtendedCare,2McKnightPlace,St.Louis, 314-788-3721,mcknightplace.com/skilled-nursing

RUNNERS-UP:FRIENDSHIPVILLAGESKILLEDNURSING ANDREHABILITATION

MARIDEVILLA

Winner-Cosmetic SurgeryCenter

Cosmeticsurgerycantransformyourappearanceanddrasticallyimproveyourqualityoflife. AtParkcrestPlasticSurgery,wearecommittedtoprovidingourpatientswithsafe,effective surgicalandnon-surgicaloptionsthatdeliverexcellentresults.

Morethanjustafeel-goodspa,theAestheticCenteratParkcrestPlastic Surgerybringsamedicalperspectivetoskincareandtreatments.

“Thephysiciansa nd staffatParkcrestPlasticSurge rya nd TheAestheticsCenterwanttothankour de dicatedpatients forconti nu ingtogiveusthishonor.”

Bloomin’Buckets

ByDrewGieseke

Fornearlytwodecades,Bloomin’ BucketshastreatedthecityofSt. Louistobeautiful,colorfulfloral designsforeveryoccasion.Founded in2004,Bloomin’isoperatedbya pairofsisterscommittedtoinfusing afreshperspectiveintotheflower business–anditshows.

Likeanygreatfloralshop, Bloomin’offersbouquetsand arrangementsforeverydaypurchases aswellasmorecustomservices, includingweddings,workshopsand otherevents.It’sduringtheseoccasionswhenBloomin’reallyshines. Partneringwiththeshop’steambeginswithafreeconsultation.From there,Bloomin’willworkwithcustomerstounderstandthelook,style andpersonalityofthepeopleplanningtheeventtodesignthebotanical arrangementsthatbestfitthebigday.

Bloomin’Buckets,9840ManchesterRoad,St.Louis, 314-961-4040,bloominbuckets.com

RUNNERS-UP:ANIQUEDESIGN KENMIESNER’SFLOWERSHOPPE

LauraMcCarthyRealEstate

ByDrewGieseke

LauraMcCarthyRealEstate isexactlythecompanyyoulook forwhenyouplantobuyorsella house.Theexpertteamspecializes inneighborhoodswithinSt.Louis’ centralcorridor,includingluxury listingsrangingfromLadueto Claytonandbeyond–andtheyknow theirstuff.

WhatstandsoutabouttheteamatLauraMcCarthyisitsattentionto detailandcareforthecustomer.Theirrealtorsunderstandthatpurchasing ahomeisn’tlikebuyingbreadatthegrocerystore–it’sabigdecisionthat requiresevery“i”tobedottedandevery“t”tobecrossed.

Fromalltheonsitework–includingshowings,closingsandmore–to everythingbehindthescenes,homebuyersandsellerscanresteasyknowing thattheteamatLauraMcCarthyhastheirback,nomatterthehomeor neighborhoodoftheirchoice.

LauraMcCarthyRealEstate,29TheBoulevard,St.Louis, 314-725-5100,lauramccarthy.com

RUNNERS-UP:DANAGUNDAKER-DEVERSOF COLDWELLBANKERREALTY–GUNDAKER THESNODGRASSGROUP–DANSNODGRASSATKELLERWILLIAMS

Hightower Wealth Advisors | St. Louis

By Drew Gieseke

Simplicity and strategy are the keys to success for Hightower Wealth Advisors and its clients. The multigenerational team of advisors takes an ensemble approach to wealth management, combining sophisticated tools with tailored advice that matches every client’s specific needs.

Hightower develops these customized investment strategies to fit the goals of its clients, which include professionals, business owners, multigenerational families looking to build wealth for decades to come and even C-level executives – think stock options, deferred compensation and restricted stock.

Hightower can also help clients with philanthropic endeavors and estate planning. This all-inclusive approach builds trust with clients over time and across disciplines, making Hightower a must for anyone in the area looking to build sustainable wealth.

Hightower Wealth Advisors St. Louis, 1401 S. Brentwood Blvd., Suite 550, St. Louis, 314-598-4060, hightowerstlouis.com

RUNNERS-UP:EDWARD JONES MONETAGROUP | ST. LOUIS INVESTMENT ADVISORS

WEDDINGS | FORMALWEAR

Savvi Formalwear

By Alecia Humphreys

In search of a premier provider of men’s formalwear? According to LN readers, look no further than Savvi Formalwear.

Savvi Formalwear, previously Gingiss St. Louis for 42 years, has a team of certified formalwear consultants who are eager to help get the groom (and his groomsmen) geared up for the big day while simultaneously providing spectacular service. If the service doesn’t speak for itself, surely the selection will.

Savvi Formalwear has hundreds of suits and tuxedos available – from designers like Calvin Klein, Michael Kors and Ralph Lauren, just to name a few – in addition to vests, ties and more.

Savvi Formalwear, multiple locations, savviweddings.com

RUNNERS-UP:STALLONE’S FORMAL WEAR TAILORED GENTS CUSTOM CLOTHIERS

WEDDINGS | WEDDING DRESSES

The Ultimate Bride

By Alecia Humphreys

Whether your taste is traditional, trendy or a beautiful blend of both, The Ultimate Bride wants to help you say yes to the dress for your big day.

Choose from more than 1,000 dresses onsite – from delightful designers like Essense of Australia, Stella York, Mikaella Bridal and more – before taking advantage of The Ultimate Bride’s onsite alterations. After all, you not only want your dress to look, but also fit, like a dream.

The Ultimate Bride also has a stunning selection of bridesmaid dresses, flower girl dresses and wedding accessories, which makes it a one-stop shop for your ceremony.

The Ultimate Bride, 1115 S. Big Bend Blvd., St. Louis, 314-961-9997, theultimatebride.com

RUNNERS-UP:BERRYBRIDGE BRIDAL CLARICE’S BRIDAL

WEDDINGS | WEDDING PLANNER

Kate + Co.

By Alecia Humphreys

If you are hoping for a one-of-akind wedding that’s wonderful in every way, then look no further than Kate + Co – a full-service wedding consult and event design firm.

Kate + Co combines divine details with personalized pieces to create a carefully curated, breathtaking experience that you (and guests alike) will truly cherish well beyond the big day.

The team’s extensive industry knowledge, experience and connections result not only in a pleasing presentation but also in a level of professionalism that is unprecedented from start to finish – making it an experience you’ll never forget.

Kate + Co., 142 E. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, kateandcollc.com

RUNNERS-UP:DIVINE EVENTS

WHIMSICAL EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS

9thStreetAbbey

ByAleciaHumphreys

Withitssoaringceilings,stunning stainedglasswindowsandhistoric charm,9thStreetAbbeyisaspecial spacetosecureforyourbigday.

Originallybuiltasachurch andschoolinthe1980s,9thStreet Abbeywasrefurbishedintothe charmingchurchthatitistoday –adreamlikeatmospherewith romanticbackdropsthatalladds uptoapicturesquecelebrationthat willamaze.

9thStreetAbbeyalsohasan onsiteenchantinggardenforgueststoenjoy.Thegardenfeaturestwinkling, stunninggreeneryandsincerelylookslikeatruefairytalesettingbrought tolife.

9thStreetAbbey,1808S.9thSt.,St.Louis,longshotpropertiesstl.com

RUNNERS-UP:FOURSEASONSST.LOUIS OLIVE+OAK STONEHOUSEOFST.CHARLES

Nutriformance

ByAmandaDahl

NutriformanceinFrontenac claimstohave“St.Louis’bestgym andpersonaltrainers,”andLN readersheartilyagree.Thiswellroundedfitnesscenteroffersnot onlyonsitepersonaltrainingbutalso at-homesessions,aswellasnutrition counselingwitharegistereddietitian andmassageandbodyworkservices.

Groupfitnessandcorporate wellnessprogramsareevidencethat Nutriformancecanmeetanydemand whilestillofferingone-on-onecare forphysicaltherapy,sportsperformanceandactiveaging.

Trythegymoneweekforfreebeforedecidingonthepackagethat suitsyoubest.Ifinterestedinworkingwithapersonaltrainer,addona three-sessionpackageforareducedcostof$150.Membershipsstartat$69, andownersDaleandEllieHuffinviteyoutoscheduleacomplimentary consultationwheneveryouareready.

Nutriformance,10407ClaytonRoad,St.Louis,314-432-6103,nutriformance.com

RUNNERS-UP:BRICKCITYYOGA

WELLNESS| COSMETICSURGERY

ParkcrestPlasticSurgery

ByAmandaDahl

Whenrecommendingaplastic surgeonintheSt.Louisarea, “Parkcrest”isonmosteveryone’slips. Offeringabroadrangeofservices, includingfaceshaping,breast enhancement,handsurgery,body contouringandtransgenderservices, thehighlytrainedteamsofDrs.

DavidCaplinandPatriciaMcGuire aimtoachieveyourcosmeticand reconstructivesurgerygoals.

Oneonlinereviewersaysthat“resultsarespectacularwithoutappearing overtightenedandphony.Myafter-surgerycarewasexceptional,too…Ilove thelookofotherswhoknowsomething[aboutme]isdifferent,but[they] can’texactlyidentifythereason.Theycomplimentmeonmyskinandwhat theythinkmustbeweightloss!”

Signupforaconsultationtolearnmoreaboutthesurgicalcareprovided byParkcrest,aswellaswhatfinancingoptionsareavailabletoyou. ParkcrestPlasticSurgery,845N.NewBallasCourt,Suite300,St.Louis, 314-569-0130,parkcrestplasticsurgery.com

RUNNERS-UP:NAYAKPLASTICSURGERY SYNERGIFACIALSURGERY

WELLNESS| PREVENTATIVEHEALTHCARE

Women’sHealthPartners

ByAmandaDahl

LocatedinsideMercyHospital South,Women’sHealthPartners (alsoknownasMercyClinicWomen’s Health)caterstotheuniqueand varyingneedsofwomen.

“Takingcareofeveryoneand everythinginyourlifeleaveslittle timetotakecareofyourself,”the clinic’swebsitestates,addingthat“Weunderstand.”Thatkindofcompassion anddedicatedserviceringtruetoourreaders,whochoseWomen’sHealth Partnersasthetopproviderinpreventativehealthcare.

Nomatterifyou’recominginforanannualcheckupormammogram, oralittleoneisontheway,specialistsarepreparedtohelpyouthrough everystageoflife.Amongthecomprehensiveservicesofferedisthecareful diagnosisandtreatmentofarangeofconditions,includingendometriosis, postpartumdepressionandovariancysts.

TheSouthSt.LouisCountyclinicalsoprovidesaccesstoprenatal navigators,makingitaplacetotrustforcompletewomen’scare.

MercyClinicWomen’sHealth,10012KennerlyRoad,Suite405,St.Louis, 314-525-4880,mercy.net/practice/mercy-clinic-womens-health-10012-kennerly

RUNNERS-UP:EVORAWOMEN’SHEALTH

ST.LOUISCENTEROFPREVENTATIVEMEDICINE

TheSpaatFourSeasonsHotelSt.Louis

ByAmandaDahl

Whenthegoinggetstough, eventhetoughestcanbenefitfrom scheduledrelaxation.Takesome timeforyourselfwiththisSt.Louis favorite.Locatedintheheartof thecity,theelegantandstylishly revampedhotelaimstopamperinits incomparablespa.

Fromtheinfraredsaunatothe steamroomtotherelaxationlounges tothetranquilitypool,eachsense willbenefitfromthecalmserenityof thissceneabovethecityskyline.Treatmentsincludenails,facials,massages, bodyscrubsandmasks.

Optforfull-bodyrelaxationwithoneoftheFourSeasons’packages; indulgeinarelaxationexperiencesuchasTheRemedy,animmune-boosting bodytreatment;orshareintheSpaAfterDark,whichgrantsyouandaspecial someonetheultimatedatenightwithacandlelitdinnerandspatreatments.

TheSpaatFourSeasonsHotelSt.Louis,999N.SecondSt.,St.Louis, 314-881-5800,fourseasons.com/stlouis/spa

RUNNERS-UP:GINGERBAYSALON&SPA THEONLYFACIAL

ONCEAGAIN, YOU’VEGIVENUS THAT WINNINGFEELING!

FriendshipVillagehasofficiallymadetheLadueNewsPlatinum Listthreeyearsinarow,winning“BestAssistedLiving” andrunner-upintheotherSeniorLivingcategories!

FriendshipVillage’stoppriorityis keepingresidentswell andindependentlonger. Expansionsofbothourcampuses, partnershipswith leadingtechnologyproviders, award-winning AssistedLivingandMemoryCare programsand thecompassionateteamsbehindour skillednursingand homecare programsarejustafewexamplesofourdedication tobeingthebestinseniorliving.

Andwithoutyourcontinuedsupport,wewouldn’tbeable tosay:“WelcometoalifewelllivedatFriendshipVillage.”

Thankyou!

Chesterfield:(636)898-8500

SunsetHills:(314)270-7700

FriendshipVillageSTL.com

DESIGN & DÉCOR

58 The Trio

60 Grooming and Glamour

62 Landscape

65 FEATURE: Spring Capsule Wardrobe

rsvpstl@rothliving.com

DETAILS Delicate THE TRIO

By Nancy Robinson

Three pieces perfect for creating a soft and dreamy gray and cream bedroom.

accentrics home presents the cloud Grey ach curved upholstered headboard with a brushed nickel nail head trim and plush button tufting. a clipped-corner frame silhouette consisting of a set of hinged rails, a low-profile footboard and three slats is also available. (carolhouse.com)

Bliss Studio’s 12-inch by 26-inch Brigitte pillow is made of natural linen with a stunning hand-embroidered golden bead design. It’s part of the company’s spring collection. (bdaviscompany.com)

cast from an antique, John richard’s French Nouveau I is a hand-painted plaster that is cameo finished with a gold edge. It is mounted and framed in a fashion that highlights the French style. Dimensions are 22-inches wide by 26-inches high. This piece was made in the U.S. (brodylamps.com)

Breihan Malecek Petersen &James

2022BerkshireHathawayHomeServices

Chairman’sCircleDiamondAward

#1SmallTeamInMissouriQ22022*

#2SmallTeamInMissouriQ32022*

#3SmallTeaminMissouriQ42022*

WearehonoredandhumbledtoonceagainberecipientsoftheprestigiousChairman’sCircleDiamondAward,having placedinthetop1/2ofthetop1%oftheBerkshireHathawayHomeServicesnetwork nationwide.Wearetrulygrateful toourclientsforallowingustobetheirtrustedadvisorsinrealestateduringoneofthemostimportanttimesintheir lives.

*IntheBerkshireHathawayHomeServicesNetworkforResidentialUnitsand/orTotalGCI

GROOMING&GLAMOUR

TheFormulaforRadiantSkin

ByAmandaDahl

Howseriouslydoyoutakeyour skincare?YohanaTekle,alocal pharmacistandtheownerof YSKINBYYOHANA,wantsyouto understandthatcaringforyourskin,especially startinginyour20s,goeswellbeyondthe surface-levelbenefits.

“Ourskinisourlargestorganandvitaltoour overallhealth,”Teklesays.“Maintainingtheskin barriernotonlyprotectstheskinfromexternal stressors,butalsoitretainswatertokeepthe bodyandskinhydratedand allowsessentialnutrients topenetratewhenitis properlycaredfor.When yourskinbarrieris strong,yourskinwillbe hydrated,smoothand lookhealthy.”

Choosingtoapply herexperienceinanew way,Teklelaunched YSKINin2020toaddress agapshenoticedin themarket.

“Myinterestincreating askincarelinegrewstrongerwhen Istruggledtofindproductsthatweregentle enoughformyskinbutstillpowerfulenough toaddressmyconcerns,”Teklesays.“Ibrowsed manyproductsupanddownthebeautyaisle, wonderingwhycertainproductshadsomany unnecessaryingredients.ThatiswhenIthought tomyself,Icanformulatemyownskincareline, withtheextensiveknowledgeandtrainingin pharmacology[that]Ipossessedfrommyyearsof studyinginpharmacyschool.”

Thepharmacistselectsingredientsforeach productwithcarefulconsiderationandcreates eachformulawithequaldeliberation.

“Ouringredientsaresourcedfromaroundthe worldandthentestedpriortotheformulation,” Teklesays.“YSKINincorporatesonlyingredients thatperformthebestandofferthehighestresults whileprotectingquality.”

Ifyourcurrentskinwoeisfiguringouthowto hydratedryskin,ormaybeevenhowtofadedark spotsthathavestartedtoappear,Tekleassures there’saproductforyouintheYSKINcollection.

Productsalsotackleissuesoftoneandtexture andcanreducerednessorinflammation.

“Wefocusoningredientsthataresuitable forallskintypesandworkwellinanyskincare routine,”Tekleadds.“Ourproductsaretruly createdforall–those[whoare]wantingtotake preventativestepstoslowdownsignsofaging, or[thosewhoarewantingto]adaptaroutineto

correctskinconcerns.”

Newproductsaresetforaspringrelease,and Tekleplanstohostpop-upshopsthroughoutthe year.ShopYSKINBYYOHANAonlineandthrough InstagramorFacebookorinpersonattheProcure marketplaceinCityFoundrySTL.

YSKINBYYOHANA,yskinbyyohana.com

StunningEquestrianpropertyon25+/-acreswithanewer 1800+/-SFhomeofexceptionalqualitywithcathedral ceilingsinthelivingareasand9ftceilingsinthebedrooms. Coveredstampedconcretepatiooverlooksa3-acre, springfed,stockedlake.Justoff thebackofthehousesitsan additionaloneroom“bunkhouse”perfectforguests.A24x51 concreteblockbuildingcurrentlyservesasstorageforatractor,upto800squarebales, andhasaseparateworkshop/storagespace.TheHorsebarnmeasures40x60,includes 4oversizedfoalingstalls,311x11stalls,tackroom,anda3/4bathroom.Multiple paddocksandturn-outs,9acresoffencedpastureintotal,Outdoorallweather 20x60meterridingarenaandthelistgoeson.Fantasticlocation,justminutesfrom shoppingandamenities.(10minstoWinghaven,20minstoChesterfieldValley)

Comeseewhatyouhavebeenlookingfor!MLS#23007426

WelcomeHometothisBeautiful1.5Storyonover16acresinClover Bottom,justminutesfromWashington,Missouri.Spectacularviews, insideandout!Inside,you’llfindover4500sfoflivingspace,including afinishedWalkoutLLandabonusroomabovethegarage!Lotsof gleamingwoodfloors!Built-Inbookcasesadornthefireplaceinthe FamilyRoom,whichfeatures20’VaultedCeilings.MainlevelMaster BedroomwithMainFloorLaundry.Largeeat-inKitchenwithviews!Inadditiontothefinished BonusRoom,upstairsyouwillfindtwoadditionalbedroomswithWalk-inClosets.Stepout yourbackporchandtakeashortstrolltothebarnandstables,currentlysuitedfor(3)Horses. Thebarncaneasilybeconvertedintoaworkshop/studioorotheruseifso desired.Pasturesarefencedandcrossfenced.Bringyourhorsesorraiseyour ownbeef!Perfectforeverhome,justanhourfromtheAirport.Excellentpublic andprivateschooloptionsavailable!MLS#23000805

PerennialPicks

ByPatRaven,Ph.D.andJulieHess

Perennialsareagardenessential:With goodplanning,theseflowerscanbring colorfromJanuaryuntilthekillingfrost inthefall.Amixofformsandtextures addsexcitement.Ifyouarestartinganewgarden wherespaceislimited,therearemanyadditional plantcharacteristicstoconsider.Herearesome factorsthatItakeintoconsiderationwithevery newperennialpurchase:

Pollinatorpower:Isitanectarsourceor caterpillarnurseryplant?Withtheenvironmental pressuresonnativebeesandbutterflies,providing insectswithsuitablehostsisimportant.Try Agastaches,alliumsandmilkweeds,whichare essentialformonarchbutterflies.

Isitnative?Nativespeciesaremostpopular withpollinators.Nativars,cultivarsofnatives,may belessattractivetobirds,beesandbutterfliesif theirflowerformdiffersgreatly.Coneflowersthat areshapedlikethewildonesaremorepopular

thanfrilly,fullydoubletypes.

Improveddiseaseresistance:Phloxand peoniesareplaguedwithpowderymildew.Find resistantvarietiesforeasiermaintenance.

Heatanddroughttolerance:Climatechange ismakingourgardeningmorechallenging,so selectsomeplantsthatwilllookgreatevenin difficulttimes.Sedumsandnativeprairieflowers aregreatchoicesfordrysummersandhighheat.

Coldhardiness:Manynewselectionsof perennialplantshavebeenchosenforour growingzone.LookforSonotiniamaryllisand BridgenhybridAlstroemeriassoyoudon’thaveto liftthemtostoreinthegarageoverwinter–just makesuretomulchwell.

Rebloomers:Alsocalled“remontant,”newer irisesanddayliliesmaybloomonandofffor manymonths.

Self-cleaning:Thismeansthatyoudon’thave todead-headtoencouragerebloomastheplant

dropsitsspentflowers,savingyouthetrouble!

Dwarforcompact:Shorterplantsaretidier andrequirelessstaking.

Strong,uprightstemsforcutting: Delnashaughdaffodilsareextremelywind resistantandperfectforcutting.

Deerresistant:Heucheras,irisanddaffodils arealmostneverbothered.Planthostas,anddeer willcomealongwayjusttoeatyours.

Resisttemptation:Thisisthehardpart! Justbecauseaplantissplashyandnewdoesn’t meanthatitwillperformwellforyou.Readthe fineprinttoo.ManyplantssoldinSt.Louisare notwinterhardyandcanonlybegrowninpots, storedinsideortreatedasannuals.

Finally,reviewtheawards.TheAmerican HorticultureSociety,All-AmericaSelections,Plants ofMeritandtheRoyalHorticulturalSocietyare someofthebest-knownplantratingssources.It’s oneeasywaytopickawinner! ln

Specializinginshoeandbootrepair,reconditioningandre-dyeingcoats, purses,beltsandmoresoyoucangetthefullvalue fromyourbelovedqualitygoods. FullystockedwithoriginalJRLeather

Looking to Buy or Sell in 2023?

314-503-6533Cell 314-997-3412Office

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Choosetheperfectfatherandsonteamofexperienced agents,thatdeliverconsistentresults…yearafteryear!

AWARDS Charity

Nominationsarenowopenfor theLadueNewsCharityAwards!

Localnonprofitsaren’tjustthebackboneofLadueNews–they’retheheartofourcommunityandthelifebloodofthe metroarea.

Everyyear,LadueNews’CharityAwardsshinesalight onterrificorganizationsinthemetroareaandallofthe selflessandthoughtfulworktheydo.

Areyouapartofalocalnonprofitmaking adifferenceinourcommunity?

Gotoladuenews.comandfollowthelinktosubmityour applicationdigitallytoday!

Spring into Capsule Wardrobes

ByMadeleineAckerburg | PhotoscourtesyofDescendant

JuliaLeenig,ownerandcreator

of Descendant

in Webster Groves, provessimplicitycanbe beautifulwithherminimalist fashionselectionsthatare perfectforbuildinga foundationalwardrobe.

Findingtheperfectoutfitcanbestressful,especiallywhen monthshavepassedsinceyoulasttriedonyourfavoritepair ofshorts.Withspringjustaroundthecorner,there’snoneed topanicaboutwhattowear–JuliaLeenig,ownerandcreator ofDescendantboutiqueinWebsterGroves,specializesin sellingsophisticatedwomen’sclothingfortheperfectcapsulewardrobe, soyoucanlookandfeelgoodregardlessoftheseason.

LeenigopenedDescendantin2020andinitiallycarriedvintage clothingbeforenarrowingherfocustowardfoundationalpieces.“When wefirstopened,Isold‘trendier’piecesbecauseIwastryingtofigureout whatpeoplewanted,”shesays.“Iwasafraidtobetoosimple.Eventually, Ilearnedthatpeoplewereactuallycravingthatsimplicity,whichiswhy wepurposefullydon’thaveamilliondifferentoptionsinthestore.”

EliminatingstylingstressisoneofthemainreasonsLeeingstarted Descendant,whichhasrefineditsfocusoverthepastthreeyearsto includeclean,minimalistfashionintendedforcreatingtheultimate

Ifyoufeelgoodinitandyoucan makeitwork,allthepiecesina capsulewardrobecanbemixedand matched.Insomeways,youcan actuallybemorecreativewith limiteditemsbecauseyoucan experimentwearingonepiecea dozendifferentways.”

versatilewardrobe.“WhenpeoplecomeintoDescendant,they’reable tomixandmatchpiecestogether,”shesays.“Itreallyreducesoverwhelm whenyoucanjustfocusonhigherqualitypieces.”

Creatingacapsulewardrobecanhelpbalanceworkandpersonal life,Leenigadds,soyoucanlookpolishedandprofessionalwithout beingsuperdressedup.“Themajorityofourcustomersarewomen whohaveimportantjobsbutalsohavepersonallives,”shesays.“They wanttohaveabalancedwardrobesotheycanshiftinandoutofany environmentfeelingcomfortableandlookinggreat.Puttingalittlemore thoughtintoafoundationalwardrobeatthebeginningcansaveyoua lotofstress,timeandmoneyintheend.”

Descendantfocusesonclothingwithacausal,polishedlookthatcan bedressedupordownforavarietyofdifferentlifestyles.Springisagreat timetocleanoutyourclosetandbeginbuildingasolidbaseforyour wardrobewithversatilepiecesfordifferentseasons.Althoughcapsule wardrobescandifferdependingonindividualstylesandpreferences, Leeingadvisesclientstostartwiththebasicsandbuildfromthere.

“Revisitfoundationalitemstomakesurethey’refreshandpolished,”she says.“GetanewwhiteT-shirt,andcheckyourjeanstomakesurethey stillfit.Anicecottonsweatercanbewornorthrownoveryourshoulder asagreattransitionalpiece.Somepeopleneedaspringdressthatthey canthrowonwithsneakersordressuptoweartochurch.”

Stickingtoacolorschemecanmakemixingandmatchingeasier,

Leenigexplains.Incorporatingwhitedenimorlightertrouserscan helpawardrobefeelcasualbutclassic.“Inspringyoufeelalittletired ofwearingblackallthetime,sothrowinginalighterelementcanhelp withthat,”sheadds.“Insteadofablackblazer,tryatanblazerthatyou won’tgetsickof.You’restillgoingtobereachingforitallsummer,and it’sagreatjackettothrowonfornextyear.”

Buildingaspringcapsulewardrobedoesn’tmeanyoucan’tget creativeandexpressyourpersonalstyle.“It’sreallyaboutmakingyour wardrobefeeleasyandnotoverwhelming,”Leenigsays.“Ifyoufeelgood initandyoucanmakeitwork,allthepiecesinacapsulewardrobecan bemixedandmatched.Insomeways,youcanactuallybemorecreative withlimiteditemsbecauseyoucanexperimentwearingonepiecea dozendifferentways.”

Regardlessofageorpersonalstyle,Descendantisonamission tohelpwomenfeelempoweredandcomfortablewithitsclothing collectionsthatareeffortlesslyclassic,polishedandversatileforany occasionandseason.

“Simplicityiscoolandtimeless,”Leenigadds.“It’sreallyaboutbeing intentionalandthoughtfulbybuildingabaseandbeingwhoyouare.”

DescendantisopenWednesdaythroughFridayfrom11a.m.to6 p.m.andSaturdayandSundayfrom11a.m.to4p.m.

Descendant,8715BigBendBlvd.,WebsterGroves,hi@shopdescendant.com

*$1sharedepositrequired.Mustqualifyformembership.MustapplybyMarch31,2023toqualifyforoffer.Subjecttocreditapproval.OfferisfornewFirstLineHE loansanddoesnotincluderefinancesonFirstCommunityloans.MissouriandIllinoisresidentsonly.Minimumfirstadvanceof$1,000onhomeequityloans.Offerof 3.69%AnnualPercentageRateonFirstLineHomeEquityLoanisgoodfortwelvemonthsafterclosingdate.Afterintroductoryperiod,rateadjustsquarterlytothe PrimeRateaspublishedintheWallStreetJournalplus.74%.Thatrateiscurrently8.49%.ThemaximumAPRthatmayapplyis18.00%.

NMLSID#684198.FederallyinsuredbyNCUA.EqualHousingLender.

THETIME TO SELLIS NOW!

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TEACHFORAMERICAST.LOUIS

20THANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Tocelebrateits20thanniversary,TeachForAmericaSt. LouisgatheredatCityFoundryinlateFebruaryofthisyear. Attendeesenjoyeddrinksandassortedeatsastheytook photosinthephotoboothandparticipatedinaspecial paint-by-numbersmural.Thekeynotespeakerfortheevent wasDr.NathalieMeansHenderson,whodiscussedTFASt.Louis’ accomplishmentsoverthelast20yearsanditsvisionforthefutureof childhoodeducation.TheorganizationhasbeenaidedbytheClarkFoxFamilyFoundation,anonprofitcommittedtoeconomicgrowth inSt.Louis.Alongwithco-founderMaxineClark,TFASt.Louis collaborateswithlocaleducatorstoadvocateforequityandeconomic mobilitytowardchildhoodeducation.

PhotosandstorybyJamesJ.Anderson

NathalieMeansHenderson

RondaWallace,MaxineClark,SharonicaHardin-Bartley

TheworkthatTFA St.Louisisdoingto developandretain teachersintheregionis necessaryandenriching, especiallyduringthis criticaltimeineducation. We’redeeplyinvestedin meetingtheneedsofour communitythroughour cohortprogramsandthe Ignitetutoringfellowship thathelpequity-mindededucatorsthrivebothin andoutsidetheclassroom,causingarippleeffect ofsuccessthroughoutourcityandbeyond.

ChristinaGrant,NathalieMeansHendersonandTerrellHenderson

NathanandElizabethMatarazzi

LauraVilines,MegWillems

BlakeHamilton,KalieghLawrence

AngeloPerez,CoumbaGueye

JackieGold,SarahDemezier,KevinTurnerII

LeslieGubitz,MaxineClark,RonGubitz

WINTER OPERA ST. LOUIS

ROYAL TEA

In early February, Winter Opera St. Louis held its annual Royal Tea at the Ritz-Carlton St. Louis. Guests were treated to a special afternoon of tea, Champagne, scones, savory bites and sweets, as well as a silent auction. The event also gave world-class tenor

Nicholas Huff and baritone Peter Kendall Clark a chance to show off their musical talents, while Sandra Geary served as accompanist. Winter Opera St. Louis is widely known for its stellar wintertime performances.

Visit

Photos and story by Diane Anderson

Our mission of producing opera in the original language and with world-class talent not only enriches our community but also brings people together.

e Royal Tea is a unique and fun event that brings a lighter fare to opera, featuring operetta and Broadway music for all audiences.

– NANCY PILLSBURY SHIRLEY WOSL BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT

Jamie Lohr, Jacquelyn Ludwig, Andriena Reavill, Amanda Kadell

Nicholas Huff, Sandra Geary, Peter Kendall Clark

Nicholas Huff

Peter Kendall Clark

CHAMBER PROJECT ST. LOUIS

15TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION CONCERT

Agroup of chamber music enthusiasts gathered last month at the Schlafly Tap Room for Chamber Project St. Louis’ 15th anniversary celebration concert. Along with cupcakes and drinks, guests enjoyed a performance by the music group, who played a piece by living female composer Valerie Coleman. The group ended with a classic piece by Maurice Ravel. CPSTL’s performances are interactive and reflect a 21st century audience in both style and content.

As

– JENNEDY LOMBARD

CPSTL BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT

Photos and story by Bryan Schraier

a classical music lover my whole life, playing [and] growing up [in] orchestra, just to see an organization that puts programming from people of color and women [at] the forefront ... is important. And it’s really cool to watch [the organization] grow over the last fteen years.

Lisa Durkin, Karen Honnold, Kristin Guilliams

Joyce King, Tricia and Thomas Jöstlein

Jennedy Lombard, Andrea Tharian Jennifer Gartley, Adrianne Honnold

ARTS & CULTURE

76 Local Eats

77 Arts Speak

78 Family First

79 FEATURE: National Great Rivers Museum

LOCAL EATS

WRIGHT’S TAVERN

In Clayton, Wright’s Tavern is reinvigorating American steakhouse classics, from shrimp cocktail and wedge salad to a French dip sandwich and steak frites. Named after architect Henry Wright, who designed the Wydown corridor in the surrounding neighborhoods, the restaurant debuted in December and combines the talents of two St. Louis industry stalwarts.

The concept comes from Matt McGuire and chef Cary McDowell, two longtime friends who envisioned creating the type of eatery together that they would both want to frequent. McGuire owns Louie in DeMun and previously served as the director of service for Niche Food Group, while McDowell’s lengthy culinary resume ranges from working for acclaimed chef Daniel Boulud in New York to most recently serving as the executive chef of the Pi Pizzeria brand.

“We’ve always wanted to do this concept; it’s something we’ve been talking about our entire friendship over the last 20-plus years,” McDowell says. “We really love to celebrate chef’s takes on American classics with French finesse, like the best Caesar we can possibly make, the best shrimp cocktail we can possibly make and the best-seared strip steak with Bordelaise sauce with the best mashed potatoes.”

Wright’s Tavern fills the space previously

occupied by I Fratellini, with a capacity of 36 seats and an elegant chophouseinspired feel. Art and photographs line a painted brick wall that spans the length of the shotgun-style space that’s illuminated by candle-lit tables and a glowing bar in the back of the room. A display of some of the day’s fresh seafood offerings are at the forefront of the bustling open kitchen, where McDowell and his staff prepare American standards with expert precision.

“The opportunity I’ve worked for over my lifetime was to be here and do this,” says McDowell, who has gone back to basics and his fine dining roots. “When dishes don’t have a lot of things to camouflage them, it’s challenging, but the result is always something pure and beautiful. That’s what we aim to do here. We really just want to grow into a great neighborhood tavern and steakhouse.”

The menu begins with hors d’oeuvres and salads such as baked blue crab cake and a Bibb lettuce and avocado salad with green goddess dressing, tomato, jicama and fines herbes. Sandwiches and entrées, respectively, include a Tavern Burger made with Iowa Premium wagyu beef and roasted chicken with pan-roasted

Miller’s Amish chicken, melted spinach and chicken jus. Beef options include steak frites, New York strip, rib-eye and filet mignon au poivre. Each steak entrée comes with accompaniments such as pommes frites, but additional sides are also available, as are desserts like crème brûlée. Behind the bar, bar manager Trevor Johnson has put together a beverage menu he describes as “simple and classic in nature, with recognizable drinks.”

According to McDowell, he and McGuire aimed to make the overall set of offerings as concise, focused and well-rounded as possible. Going forward, he hopes to incorporate a lunch component to the concept with lighter items such as roasted fish and soups.

“I’m just so thrilled for the opportunity for Matt and I to do a business together and for us to have the team that we have that is united in making this thing as good as we can make it,” McDowell says. “It’s a great feeling.”

Wright’s Tavern is open Monday through Thursday from 5 to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 to 11 p.m.

Wright’s Tavern, 7624 Wydown Blvd., Clayton, 314-390-1466, wrightswydown.com

Story and photos by Mabel Suen chicken,

MEET COCA’S NEW LEADER

By Drew Gieseke

One of the country’s most influential community arts centers recently introduced Indigo K. Sams as its new president and CEO. Although Sams is new to the role, she’s a familiar face at the Center of Creative Arts, where she began her professional life and spent 17 years in various roles – such as director of community services.

Sams’ COCA homecoming is a sign of good things to come for St. Louis’ arts scene.

“If you look at the world’s greatest leaders, they have always followed their passion and used their innate talents to become successful,” Sams says. “I am listening to my heart and following that. Leading an arts organization and exposing people to the power of the arts has been a lifelong dream of mine.”

Sams spent the past 17 years of her career with Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis, where she most recently served as vice president of operations/programs and club services. Now, Sams rejoins the fourth-largest multidisciplinary community arts center in the U.S. with a vision for innovation and arts education.

Each year, COCA serves more than 50,000 people through its arts programming. Classes and performances include everything from dance, vocal music and theatre to art, design and more. It is one of fewer than 20 organizations to be nationally accredited through the Accrediting Commission for Community and Pre-Collegiate

Arts Schools.

Sams kicked off her tenure in mid-February 2023, which is typically a time of reflection and change for many arts organizations. COCA is no exception. The facility – located a short drive from Forest Park – underwent a 2018 renovation to its historic Mendelsohn Building, now named the Kuehner West Wing. Likewise, in 2020, COCA completed a $37 million expansion of its Ferring East Wing, adding space and state-of-the-art amenities to the already impressive campus.

Currently, Sams is working to identify new goals and adjust older ones to incorporate the vision COCA’s board and stakeholders.

“I will strike a balance between ambition and realism, so our chances of success are excellent,” Sams explains. “I believe that we have many

more wonderful opportunities to deepen and grow our community impact and access to those near and far! COCA can be an arts destination or hub to experience live, high-quality performing arts.”

Sams believes the arts can help elevate St. Louis. Art can be enjoyed, shape lives and inspire change; COCA is primed to play a starring role in this project.

“COCA, like the arts, must continue to be used to raise consciousness and shape the way we think about our society,” Sams says. “We must be steadfast in our efforts to instill empathy, build a sense of community and challenge various oppressions like racism, inequality, etc. It is my belief that the arts change people, and people change the world.”

Center of Creative Arts, 6880 Washington Ave., St. Louis, 314-725-6555, cocastl.org

Clubs of Greater St. Louis, where she

– located a short drive from Forest

PHOTOS COURTESY OF COCA; PORTRAIT BY LANCE THURMAN

Paw-fect Outdoor PLAY

By Madeleine Ackerburg

When the warm weather returns, St. Louisans aren’t the only ones itching to get outside and soak in the sunshine. Dogs across the metro area wagged their tails in joy at the sight of their humans’ smiling faces once the sun finally set after 4 p.m. If you’re looking for new places to take your furry friends this month but don’t know where to start, consider stopping by any of these local spots offering enough fun for humans and dogs alike.

Bar K St. Louis

If you’re wanting to take your pup off the leash, Bar K in St. Louis is hard to beat. This facility offers a fun, entertaining environment with a giant 2-acre outdoor dog park and a 10,000-square-foot indoor dog park, both fully staffed by trained Bar K Dogtenders. Equally as impressive is Bar K’s two indoor bars and one outdoor bar and restaurant, which allow owners to sit back and relax as their pups mingle. Each Bar K location features multiple spacious dog parks for both small and large dogs and a regular list of social, educational and recreational activities to keep you and your pup entertained, such as outdoor concerts and trivia nights. With plenty of unique features to keep dogs and humans occupied and happy, it’s pretty clear that Bar K is a pup paradise.

Bar K St. Louis, 4565 McRee Ave., St. Louis, 314-530-9990, barkdogbar.com

The Doghaus Soulard

St. Louis’ first dog park sports bar has remained a crowd favorite for pet owners – and for a good reason! The Doghaus in Soulard offers

a sprawling 35-by-90-foot outdoor space for your pups to run and roam off-leash in a park filled with fun obstacles and toys. Dogs aren’t the only ones having fun, as owners can grab a beer at the serving window, relax by the fire pit or play a game of cornhole while their furry friends play. If you’re with a larger group, you can reserve a table on the patio or rent the indoor lounge, a dog-friendly upstairs area with private balconies and separate music systems so you can jam with your pup all day long. Regardless of what you choose, Doghaus is the perfect place for animal lovers to grab a drink, listen to live music, host a party or simply spend a sunny afternoon with man’s best friend.

The Doghaus Soulard, 1800 S. 10th St., St. Louis, 314-620-0848, thedoghaussoulard.com

Tamm Avenue Bar

A hot spot for dog lovers, Tamm Ave is the ideal atmosphere for grabbing a drink with two-legged and four-legged friends. Located in Dogtown (no surprise there) across the street from the St. Louis Zoo, Tamm Ave has everything necessary for a great Saturday afternoon – a full bar, game room, fire pits and a partially covered patio. The patio, of course, is dog-friendly and offers dog bowls to keep your furry companions happy and hydrated. Indoors and outdoors, Tamm Avenue offers a large selection of canned beers and never serves drinks in glass to keep your pet safe. Whether you’re looking to grab a beer, eat a sandwich or watch the game at Dogtown’s largest dog-friendly patio, Tamm Ave never disappoints.

Tamm Avenue Bar, 1227 Tamm Ave., St. Louis, 314-261-4902, tammave.com

The Doghaus Soulard

Bar K St. Louis

Bar K St. Louis

Theriverecosystemis hometoadiversearray of fishandwildlife that findhabitatinits channels,backwaters, sloughs,wetlandsand adjacentuplands.”

Theriver

Locatedjust25milesnorthofSt.LouisinAlton,Illinois, theNationalGreatRiversMuseumtellsthestoryofthe MississippiRiveranditshistory,ongoingpreservationand ecology.Nextdoor,visitorscantourtheMelvinPriceLocks andDam,astructurethatfacilitatesbargeandboattravel ontheUpperMississippi.

The12,000-square-footmuseum,whichopenedtothepublicin 2003,istheresultofacollaborativepartnershipbetweenMeeting oftheRiversFoundationandtheU.S. ArmyCorpsofEngineers.Theformer,a nonprofitorganizationbasedinIllinois, makesanefforttoeducatethepublic throughcommunityoutreach,volunteer work,classroomvisitsandevents.

Alongwithanoldshipwheeland partofamastodonskull,aswellas numerouscomplexexhibits,themuseum housesasmalltheater.Thefilmsitshows discussMississippiRiverecologyandthe problemsandsolutionsassociatedwith manipulatingtheriver’sflow.

AlsonearbyisthemassiveMelvin PriceLocksandDam.Completedin 1994,itstretches1,160feetacrosstheMississippi.“Thereare29lock anddamstructuresontheUpperMississippiRiver,”aspokesperson forthemuseumsays.

Thesestructurescreatea“stairwayofwater”betweenthem,making traveleasierforthreekindsofbargesandotherboats.Inorderfor boatstopassbetweenhighwaterlevels–heldbackbydams–andlow waterlevels,specialmachinery“locks”watercraftintoaspacethatfills upwithwaterandthenfunnelstheboatsthrough.

Onespecialtythemuseumprovides isfreetoursofMelvinPrice.Visitorscan takeanelevatorupandacrossthetop ofthestructure,whichsits80feetabove waterlevelandoffersabird’s-eyeviewof thebargesandtowboats.“Theamountof material[usedtobuild]MelvinPricecould buildsixarches,”thespokespersonsays.

Becausesomanywaterfowl,fishand othercreaturesdependontheriverfor survival,protectingtheirenvironmentsfrom excessivehumandisturbanceiscrucial–especiallyalongtheUpperMississippiRiver.

“Theriverecosystemishometoadiverse arrayoffishandwildlifethatfindhabitatin itschannels,backwaters,sloughs,wetlands andadjacentuplands,”states“Aboutthe UpperMississippiRiverSystem,”anarticle writtenfortheUpperMississippiRiver RestorationProgram.

Migratingbirdslikegeese,ducks, sparrows,blackbirdsandwarblersflyalong theriverinaroutethat’sknownasthe

MississippiRiverFlyway.In thesectionofrivernearthe museumandlocksanddam, thesebirdsandtheirhabitat –temporaryorotherwise–aresafeandsoundinthe RiverlandsMigratoryBird Sanctuary,whichisjustacross theriverinMissouri.

“RiverlandsMigratoryBird Sanctuary[wasestablished]to offsettheenvironmentalimpact ofthelocksanddam,”saysthe spokesperson.“Over12types ofgullscalltheareahome.”

AccordingtotheAudubonCenter,morethan300speciesofbirdsusethe flywayforbreeding,foragingandasastopoverhabitatwhilemigrating.

InJanuaryandFebruary,visitorstothemuseumcansignupto observebaldeaglessoaringovertheriver.Althoughtheseanimals don’tmigratetoofarfromtheirfeedinggrounds,theyroostatopthe treesinthesanctuaryandnearthemuseumacrosstheriver.Atthe timeofpublication,museumstaffhadascopetrainedonabaldeagle nestalongtheGreatRiverRoad.

WithsomuchtoseeanddoattheNationalGreatRiversMuseum andattachedMelvinPriceLocksandDam,visitorstotheareacan expecttousethisresourcetoeducatethemselvesonconservationand rivertransportforyearstocome.

NationalGreatRiversMuseum, 1LocksandDamWay,Alton, Illinois,618-462-6979,mtrf.org

Upcomingevents

RECFest

May13 ≈ 10a.m.to4p.m.

Tokickoffthewarmseason,theU.S.Army CorpsofEngineershasaRecreation-ExplorationConservationFestivalplannedforearlyMay atthemuseum.Guestscanparticipatein outdoorgamesandexploreweatherandwildlife educationstations,aswellastourthenearby locksanddam.

PaddleFest

June3 ≈ 10a.m.to4p.m.

IncollaborationwiththeRiverlandsMigratory BirdSanctuaryinAlton,Illinois,andthe MississippiRiverWaterTrailAssociation,the museuminviteswaterloverstopaddlethecalm backwatersoftheMississippiRiver.Hopina kayakorcanoe,balanceonapaddleboard,or takeaguidedtour.Pre-registrationisrequired andcomplimentarylifejacketsareprovided.

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