September 19, 2025 by Ladue News

Comingtotheaters:

BLUEPRINT

OFEXCELLENCEIN

ST . LOUISREALES TAT E

EveryDetailMatters

Kimismeticulousandproudofit.From thefineprintoflegalcontractstothe bigpictureofherclients’lives,she takesthetimetounderstandevery angle.“Iknowhowpersonalthis processis,sothedetailsmatter.”

Fromdayone,she’sbeensupportedby abrokerwhotreatsherlikefamily.“She’s reallybeenlikeamothertome.”That kindofpersonalinvestmentcarriesover intoeverytransaction.

Kimbringsunmatchedvalue toherclients.Evenafterthe transaction,she’saresourceto guideyoueverystepoftheway. More ThanaMove

Movingisn’tjustaboutfinding ahouse—it’saboutbuilding alife.Herbrokerage’saward winningrelocationteamhelps Kimfocusoneverydetail,like findingtheperfectcommunity forherclientsthatalignswith theirlifestyle.

HereFor EveryChapter

For18years,Kimhasbeenthe firstcallforoneclientthrough sixmovesandcountlesslife changes.Whetheryou’reanew collegegradorraisingafamily offive,she’salifelongpartner withtheconnectionsand resourcestomakeeverymove seamless.“It’sspecialtobea partofmyclients’lives.”

AUCTOhome Appliances is proud to serve St. Louisans, providing a wide selection of luxury appliances for their homes. Now, the dealer is excited to unveil its new, expanded showroom.

the

Photo by Christina Kling-Garrett. Pictured front row (left to right): Kim Zimmer, Joan Hart and Scott Molitor. Back row (left to right): Gabe Ashakanzi and Dave Seithel

Photo by Christina Kling-Garrett

The VeryBest Care.

Our Promise: Youwillbecared for byattentive,experienced individualswhoarecommitted toyourpersonalwellbeing.

AtMcKnightPlaceExtendedCareweprovideindividualizedskillednursingcare inanelegant,residentialstyle.Ourstaffofmedicallytrainedprofessionalsis availablearoundtheclocktoprovideyouoryourlovedonewiththehighestlevel ofservice.Ourcommunityservesindividualswhoneedlong-termskillednursing careorshort-termrecoveryassistanceafterhospitalization.

*WeacceptMedicarePartAforskillednursingrehabservices.

forelevatedliving LEGENDARYQUALITY

7800ClaytonRoad,RichmondHeights,MO63117

314.991.0900|STLinfo@rothliving.com www.rothliving.com

LN

PUBLISHER

Ian Caso

EDITORIAL

m ANAGING e DI tO r

Ashley Klein > aklein@laduenews.com

DIGI tAL e DI tO r & S tAFF W r I ter

Amanda Dahl > adahl@laduenews.com

ASSOCIAte e DI tO r

Emily Standlee > estandlee@laduenews.com

CON tr I b U t ING W r I ter S

Drew Gieseke, Alecia Humphreys, Carrson McDaniel, Connie Mitchell, Brittany Nay, Pat Raven, Nancy Robinson, Megan Rubenstein, Andrea Smith, Mabel Suen

SALES

VIC e pre SID e N t OF SAL e S

Kevin Hart > khart@stlpostmedia.com

SeNIOr meDIA StrAteGISt

Katie Ray > kray@laduenews.com

me DIA S tr Ate GIS t Michelle Brown > mbrown@laduenews.com

S pe CIAL pr OJ e C t S m ANAG er Maggie Peters > mpeters@laduenews.com

CLASSIFI e D ACCOUN t m ANAG er Lisa Taylor > ltaylor@lee.net

ART

A rt DI re C tO r

Laura De Vlieger > ldevlieger@laduenews.com

ASSIS tAN t A rt DI re C tO r

Christopher Oth > coth@laduenews.com

CON tr I b U t ING p HOtOG r A p H er

Brian Schraier

A LEE ENTERPRISES PUBLICATION

AD D ITI ON ALAREALISTINGS

132N.BrentwoodBlvd.(Clayton) C $9,950,000

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2033WoodlandKnoll(Kirkwood) C $2,745,000

2017WoodlandKnoll(Kirkwood) C $2,525,000

2002WoodlandKnoll(Kirkwood) C $2,455,000

2005WoodlandKnoll(Kirkwood) C $2,370,000

10407WhiteBridgeLn.(CreveCoeur) C $2,275,000

61BriarcliffStreet(Ladue) C $2,250,000

8122TeasdaleAve.(UniversityCity) C $1,850,000

509StoneRidgeCircleCt.(Kirkwood) C $1,599,000

156GrayAvenue(WebsterGroves) C $1,599,000

12859ToppingMeadows(T&C) C $1,585,000

17702HorseCreekCt.(Chesterfield) C $1,425,000

789SaintPaulRoad(Wildwood) C $1,200,000

215RosemontAve.(WebsterGroves) C $1,199,000

12371IronstoneRoad(DesPeres) C $950,000

11VillaCoublay(Frontenac) C $899,000

155ForestClubDrive(Chesterfield) C $889,000

911ClevelandAvenue(Kirkwood) C $875,000

9112OldBonhommeRoad(Olivette) C $825,000

1121S.MainStreet,#104(St.Charles) C $799,000

600SouthBerryRoad(WebsterGroves) C $715,000

130ElmAvenue(Glendale) C $699,900

1826S.MasonRoad(Town&Country) C $689,000

723OakValleyDrive(DesPeres) C $674,999

2341S.12thStreet(St.LouisCity) C $674,000

206TalbotWay(Wentzville) C $629,000

8154StanfordAvenue(UniversityCity) C $625,000

12914NimesDrive(CreveCoeur) C $549,000

3981CambridgeCrossing(St.Charles) C $525,000

67ForestGlenLane(Kirkwood) C $499,000 4909LacledeAvenue,#805(StL) C $465,000

801WeatherwoodDrive(Manchester) C $450,000 218EuclidAvenue(RockHill) C $419,900 6312SouthwoodAve.,#1W(Clayton) C $390,000 10N.KingshighwayBlvd.,#4C(StL) C $325,000 200S.BrentwoodBlvd.,#15C(Clayton) C $324,900 4236McreeAvenue(St.LouisCity) C $324,900 7521ByronPlace,#3E(Clayton) C $282,000 823HannaCourt(Manchester) C $269,000 1121S.MainStreet,#209(St.Charles) C $265,000 526SarahLane,#41(CreveCoeur) C $254,900 13385HiddendaleLane(Ballwin) C $199,900 4220McPhersonAvenue,#303(SL) C $189,900 1773HighSchoolDrive(Brentwood) C $179,900

1. 509StoneRidgeCircleCourt • Kirkwood NEWLISTING! DiscoverthischarmingandsophisticatedCapeCod tuckedawayonapeacefulKirkwoodcul-de-sac,nestledonnearlyanacre oflush,beautifullylandscapedgrounds.Immediately,you’llnoticethefresh, invitingpaint,gleamingrefinishedhardwoodfloors,stylishnewstaircase, andstunningmoderndesign.Thehomehasaspaciousdiningroomand arenovatedkitchenwithanexpansiveisland – perfectfordailyliving. Themainflooralsoboastsasoaringtwo-storygreatroomandasunroom wrappedinwindowsthatfloodsthespacewithnaturallight. $1,599,000

2. 17702HorseCreekCourt•Chesterfield NEWLISTING! Thisbeautifullyappointedhomeisnestledonaprivate, 1.16-acrelotlocatedinaprestigiousneighborhood.Stepinsidetoa dramatictwo-storygreatroomfeaturingastunningwallofwindowsthat floodsthespacewithnaturallight.Theheartofthehomeisaspacious kitchen,outfittedwithcustom42-inchcabinetry,top-of-the-lineappliances, acenterisland,andmore.Asee-throughgasfireplaceaddswarmthand charmtoboththehearthroomandadjoininglivingareas. $1,425,000

3. 6312SouthwoodAvenue,#1W • Clayton

Stepintothislight-filledcondothatseamlesslyblendsclassiccharm withmodernupdatesandanexceptional,versatilelayout idealforboth relaxingandentertaining.Thewelcominglivingroomflowseffortlesslyinto aspacious,updatedkitchenanddiningarea,creatingtheperfectsettingfor gatheringsorquietnightsin. $390,0000

4. 155ForestClubDrive•Chesterfield

SituatedinoneofChesterfield’smostdesirableneighborhoods,this stunningrenovated11/2-storyhomeoffers4bedrooms,3.5bathrooms, andover3000sq.ft.ofupgradedlivingspaceandanewdriveway.The mainlevelflowsbeautifullyfromthefreshlyredesignedkitchentothe spaciouslivingroom,formaldining,andalargefamilyroom. $889,000

5. 9112OldBonhommeRoad • Olivette

This4-bedroom,3.5-bathroomhomeoffersthesquarefootageandlayout today’sbuyersarelookingfor,withdetailsthatmakeitspecialandmove-in ready.Themainfloorfeatureshardwoodflooring,abrighttwo-storyfoyer,a largekitchen,andawelcomingfamilyroomwithagasfireplaceandfloor-toceilingwindowswithdoorsthatopentoaspaciousdeck. $825,000

6. 789SaintPaulRoad • Wilwood

Imagineashortdrivehometoyoursecluded28+/-acreswhereyougetto bethekingorqueenofyourcastle.Thispropertyoffersyouthefreedomto createyourownparadiseasyouseefit!LocatedintheRockwoodSchool District,andlessthan10minutesfromtherestaurants&shopsinEllisville, you’llenjoytheperfectblendofcity&countryliving. $1,200,000

7. 823HannaCourt • Manchester

Welcometothischarmingcondotuckedawayonaquietcul-de-sacina primecentrallocation.Stepinsidetofindnewlyrefinishedhardwoodfloors, plushcarpet,andfreshlypaintedwallsthatcreateabright,move-in-ready feel.Themainfloorfeaturesadiningroom,akitchenwithstainless-steel appliances,andavaultedgreatroom. $269,000

8. 801WeatherwoodDrive• Manchester

Thischarming1.5-storyhomefeaturesmodernrenovationsandaprivate pool.Therenovated1.5-storyresidenceoffersaninviting,openlayoutwith gleaminghardwoodfloorsandanabundanceofnaturallightthroughout. Thekitchenfeaturescustomcabinetry,recessedlighting,stainless-steel appliances,andmore. $450,000

Kirkwood

17702HorseCreekCourt•Chesterfield

Manchester

Clayton

789SaintPaulRoad

Wildwood

Olivette

Fall is a busy time for kids. A new year of school is underway, but the St. Louis area is still buzzing with enough family-friendly activities to last until winter’s chill.

As students continue to adjust to new classes and teachers, a proactive approach can help with managing stress. On p. 72, contributing writer Carrson McDaniel speaks with local mental health experts about how mindfulness practices, such as meditation and yoga, can help kids (and their parents) learn to recenter when anxiety crops up.

Thanks to local arts-focused organizations and businesses, kids can have fun learning even after class lets out. On p. 18, contributor Alecia Humphreys shares seven ways kids can experience art around the metro with activities that include painting, music and even pottery.

For Ladue residents, local toy store Imagination Toys might well be a childhood favorite they’re now sharing with children of their own. Contributor Megan Rubenstein shares the history of the beloved shop and upcoming celebrations for its 40th year in business on p. 22.

Happy reading,

Ashley Klein, Managing Editor

LadueNews.com

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Editor photo by Christina Kling-Garrett; Facebook artwork by Sarah Sze, photo by Daniel Spizzirri; Instagram photo by Ashley Klein; X photo supplied; LN Online photo by Zachary Linhares, courtesy of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch

LiveYourBestLife.

Situatedonalushmanicuredacre,thiscustom-builtTownandCountrymanordistinguishedbyextraordinarydetailand design-savvyinspiration,istheepitomeofgoodtaste.Impressiveentryflankedbysophisticatedlivinganddiningrooms. Chef’skitchenopenstosun-drenchedbreakfastareaandvaultedsolariumoverlookingtheserenegrounds.Box-beamed denhostsbigbay,built-insandlimestonefireplace.Cladinallwhite,largesunroomboastsfloor-to-ceilingwindows,tray ceilingandoutdooraccess.Unwindinthesumptuousprimarysuitewithlavishbath.Betteryet,soakupthesunatyour privateresort-styleoasiswithsparklingpool,poolhouse,stonefireplaceandcoveredveranda.Youhavearrived.

Thankyoutomysellersforallowingmetorepresenttheirbeautifulhomes. Allhomes soldoverlistprice!Properplacementandrepresentationare paramounttomyapproach. Foraconfidentialappointment,pleasecontactJulieLane. CurrentlybookingforFallandSpring‘2026.

A PPL IANCESHO PPI NG E Elevating levating

ByMaggiePeters

PhotoscourtesyofAUTCOhomeAppliances

Familyownedandoperated, AUTCOhomeAppliancesservesSt. Louisbuilders,designers,contractors andhomeownerssince1998,providing customerswithawideselectionof high-endappliancesfortheirhomes. Now,withanewlyrenovatedshowroom,AUTCO’s teamarelookingforwardtohelpingfurther personalizetheirservices.

“Wecarefullyhelpselectthebestbrandsto fitourclient’sneeds,andwegivethemasmuch timeasneededtomaketheirfinalselections; function,budgetandstyleareallimportantand weunderstandthat,”explainsJeanHerman,

GM–HomeBuilderDivision.“Thegoal[withthe newshowroom]wastomoveawayfromsimply showingpicturesofappliancesandtellingclients whatcouldworkintheirhomes.Wenowhavethe spacetodisplaymorebrands–andmoreofeach brand–soclientscansee,touch,andcomparereal productsinrealsettings.”

HermanaddsthatAUTCO’srenovationhas beenamajormilestone,doublingtheirspacefrom 6,000to12,000squarefeet.Thedecisiontoexpand wasmadeafteritsleadershipteam–comprised ofher,JohnRoth(President),SteveWilmsmeier (GM–DistributionDivision),andZachRootz (Controller)–realizeditwastherightmoveto

We’re hereto help our clients find theright appliancefor theirhome, and to maketheprocess assmooth, informed, and enjoyableaspossible.

–JEANHERMAN

Frontrow(lefttoright):SteveWilmsmeier,JoanHart,KimZimmer,DianaKeeton,ScottMolitor Backrow(lefttoright):DaveSeithel,GabeAshkanazi,JohnRoth,ZachRootz

PhotobyChristinaKling-Garrett

betterserveAUTCO’shigher-endclients.The renovationelevatesthespacebeyondaregular showroom,creatinganenvironmentthatiswarm, invitingandinspiring.

Amongthehighlightsofthenewshowroom, Hermanisexcitedabouthavinganareadedicated tolaundryandventilationproducts.Withtheir ownspace,sheexplainsthatclientscannow comparebrandseasierandlearnabouteach uniquefeature.

“Thefeedbackhasbeenincredible,”Herman says.“Clientshavetoldushowmuchthey appreciatetheabilitytoexperiencetheappliances firsthand,andtheirreactionshaveconfirmed

thatwemadetherightdecision.”

Atitscore,thisrenovationhelpsAUTCO’s experiencedanddedicatedteaminitsmissionto bestserveitsclientsandHermanisproudtohave workedalongsidemanyofthemforyears.

“AtAUTCO,wetrulyoperatelikeafamily,and thatsenseofconnectionshowsineverythingwe do,”shesays.“We’reheretohelpourclientsfind therightappliancefortheirhome,andtomake theprocessassmooth,informed,andenjoyableas possible.We’reincrediblyfortunate.”

HermanalsorecognizesthatAUTCO’steam helpedmakethisshowroomtransformation possible.ShealsoshoutsoutTao+LeeAssociates

forthestunningdesignwork,ISCforthe construction,FC2fortheircraftsmanship, CosentinoCountertops,TopKnobs/Atlas Homewares,andKevinKenney,theownerofthe InteriorDesignCenterofSt.Louis,forhelping bringthespacetolife.

Sheconcludes:“Thishasbeenabigstep forwardforus,andwe’reexcitedaboutwhatit meansforourclients–andthefutureofAUTCO.”

11610PageServiceDrive,St.Louis,314-373-2000, autcohome.com

Raising Awareness

By Connie Mitchell > photos supplied

When it comes to cancers that affect women, breast cancer is often top of mind. But ovarian cancer, although less common, tends to be much more serious, and on Aug. 28 of this year, the Missouri State Senate passed a new law designating September as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

Ovarian cancer is the 11th most common cancer among women but the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths, according to the national Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance. Because the disease is often stealthy, exhibiting few and vague symptoms, it is often diagnosed at later stages than other types of cancer. The national five-year survival rate is 51%, and Missouri’s rate is slightly lower, at 48%, in data published by the Missouri Cancer Registry and Research Center.

“As a nine-year survivor living with metastatic ovarian cancer, I know the challenges of this disease firsthand,” said Joan Gummels, board president of St. Louis Ovarian Cancer Awareness, in a press release. “Often people are unaware of the significant survival benefit of consulting a specialist and the importance of genetic testing in this era of targeted treatments.”

Gummels and SLOCA executive director, Susan Robben, a fellow survivor, want women to understand their risk by knowing their family history and talking with their physicians about appropriate types of screening and genetic testing, if needed. Women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations are at higher risk along with women who have not had children or are of Eastern European or Ashkenazi Jewish heritage.

One of the most significant obstacles to catching ovarian cancer in earlier, more treatable stages is the absence of red-flag symptoms. Women with ovarian cancer might experience bloating, abdominal pain, urinary urgency or frequency, and difficulty eating or feeling full quickly. These symptoms also exist in benign gastrointestinal conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome, and can be mistaken for these more common diagnoses.

Women who are concerned about symptoms or their risk of ovarian cancer should talk with their primary-care physician or OB-GYN. Pelvic exams, blood tests and imaging studies are helpful in diagnosing any ovarian irregularities.

As a nine-year survivor living with metastatic ovarian cancer, I know the challenges of this disease firsthand. – JOAN GUmmeLS

Despite the concerning statistics, new treatments are providing hope. Depending on the type and stage of ovarian cancer, patients can undergo surgery, chemotherapy, therapies that target specific proteins found in cancer cells, hormone therapy or radiation. Immunotherapy is a newer type of treatment finding success for a variety of cancers, including some ovarian cancers, that directs a patient’s own immune system to find and eliminate malignant cells. Physicians often recommend a combination of approaches.

SLOCA representatives continue to raise awareness year-round by attending health fairs and community events, speaking with medical professionals and students, helping fund research, and supporting survivors. The organization’s Sister Box program brings a care package of comfort items, supportive notes and resources to women beginning treatment.

St. Louis Ovarian Cancer Awareness, sloca.org

Joan Gummels

Susan robben

Because where yougetyourmammogram makesadifference.

Truststartswithadedicated teamofWashUMedicine radiologistsaffiliated withtheinternationallyrecognized MallinckrodtInstituteofRadiology.AtSitemanCancerCenter,everymammogramisreadbyanimagingexpertwith theskill,knowledgeandexperienceonlyanationalleadercandeliver.AtSiteman,our radiologistsarepartof ateamofWashUMedicinephysicians thatincludessub-specialized breasthealthexperts.

Scheduleyourannualmammogramstartingatage40. Makeyourbreasthealthapriority. Call 314-988-3025 foraSitemanMammogramnearyouorvisit SitemanMammogram.washu.edu

Healthy Living

InVita Health & Wellness

333 S. Kirkwood Road, Suite 300 and 14422 Clayton Road, 314-394-0950, invitahealthandwellness.com

InVita Health & Wellness helps clients look and feel their best by understanding their personal health conditions and circumstances. Going beyond simply preventing illness, InVita provides medical weight loss, specialized IV therapies, hormone optimization and more. reach out to InVita Health today and look forward to living your best life.

McKnight Place Extended Care

2 McKnight Place, 314-993-2221, mcknightplace.com

Whether an individual is recovering from surgery or illness and in need of short-term rehabilitation, or facing a longer period of skilled nursing care, mcKnight place extended Care provides peace of mind. mcKnight place offers exceptional nursing care, as well as a full complement of therapy services.

By Maggie Peters

1033 Corporate Square Drive, 314-432-6103 x 3004, nutriformance.com

building muscle after 50 is key for women’s health. It boosts metabolism, strengthens bones, improves balance, and supports healthy aging. It’s never too late – strong is the new youthful. Start your muscle-building journey today and feel the difference! NutriFormance is ready to get you started with its Strong September special! email randyl@nutriformance.com to learn more!

Shero Imaging

227 N Lindbergh Blvd., 314-828-2662, info@sheroimaging.com, sheroimaging.com

mammograms, ultrasounds, genetic testing, body composition, bone density, personalized care – all in one place. Shero Imaging welcomes patients for screening and diagnostic appointments with state-of-theart technology, including missouri’s only pain-free mammogram. With transparent pricing and uncompromising care, Shero Imaging is redefining breast health standards in St. Louis. experience a new era today.

NutriFormance

Head Start on

Art

Picture paint-splattered smiles, clay-covered hands and memories in the making – all thanks to kids discovering the joy of creating. Across St. Louis, art programs are giving kids the freedom to create, explore and let their imaginations soar.

FOUNDRY ART CENTRE

Foundry Art Centre not only has kids’ workshops – where kids ages 7 to 12 can participate in hands-on art-making experiences – but also tween and teen workshops, where children ages 10 to 18 can create with their peers while working with professional artists. Plus, they have an Art Club where students get to explore various art forms, from painting to sculpture and more.

520 N. Main Center, St. Charles, 636-255-0270, foundryartcentre.org/kids-workshops

LAUMEIER SCULPTURE PARK

Laumeier Sculpture Park has a Little Buds program designed for curious young artists. Activities include seasonal art projects, sculpture walks, creek exploration, music and more. Designed for ages 3 to 6, the Little Buds program is running now through May 21.

12580 Rott Road, St. Louis, 314-615-5278, laumeiersculpturepark.org/little-buds

SAINT LOUIS ART MUSEUM

SLAM is hoping to inspire lifelong connections with art through fun family programs, gallery guides and hands-on activities. Enjoy Toddler and Me story times that are followed by a craft, or participate in a Family Sunday event – like the Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration on Oct. 5 or the Rivers and Rhythms theme on Oct. 19.

1 Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis, 314-721-0072, slam.org/families-teens-youth

SOUTH BROADWAY ART PROJECT

Kids Pottery St. Louis through the South Broadway Art Project is designed with a cooperative multi-level approach for children ages 7 to 12 years old. Participants will experience wheel work, hand-building skills and more in one of its two fall class offerings.

3816 S. Broadway St. Louis, 314-773-3633, southbroadwayartproject.org/kids-pottery-classes-1

ST. LOUIS ARTISTS’ GUILD

Join the St. Louis Artists’ Guild on the third Saturday of every month for a free family craft activity aimed toward pre-K and elementary-aged children and their families. On Sept. 20, participants will create wacky monster hand puppets with colorful construction paper, and on Oct. 18, there will be a Lego-themed activity.

12 N. Jackson Ave. St. Louis, 314-727-6266, stlouisartistsguild.org/free-family-saturdays

ST. LOUIS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra not only has a concert series – like the performance on Oct. 19 that will feature songs from “Jurassic Park,” “Night on Bald Mountain” and more – but also cinematic experiences for kids. Enjoy films on the big screen (like “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” in October and “The Lion King in Concert” in November) while the SLSO performs the score live.

718 N. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, 314-534-1700, shop.slso.org/9033?z=0

YUCANDU

Yucandu Art Studio is a firm believer that anyone can be creative, which is exactly why they host a variety of workshops not only for adults, but also children – including Pre-K Mom & Me Workshops, No-School Workshops, Kids’ Art Nights and more.

20 Allen Ave., Suite 110, Webster Groves, 314-963-4400, yucandu.com

By Alecia Humphrey > photos by brendan batchelor, courtesy of St. Louis Symphony Orchestra

EDUCATIONINFOCUS

>ROSSMANSCHOOL

ByMaggiePeters >PhotoscourtesyofRossmanSchool

Studentslearnbestwhentheyfeeltheyarebeingsupported. AtRossmanSchool,thatsupportisassuredwiththeschool’s unique“family”program,allowingstudentstomentorothers andbementoredinanatmospherethatfeelslikehome.

Sinceitsfounding108yearsago,RossmanSchoolhashad justeightheadsofschool,aswellasadedicated,long-termfaculty. Rossmanisaschoolinwhichfacultyandstaffaredeeplyinvested, furtheringitsmissiontobeanurturingenvironmentdevotedto students’excellence.

“WecreatedRossmanfamiliesmorethantwodecadesagobecause weconsideritapartofthewell-balancededucationwestressin ourmissionstatement,”RachelFowle,directoroflowerschool. “Essentially,webelieveanexceptionaleducationisn’tjustaboutwhat achildlearns,butwhoachildbecomes.”

RossmanFamiliesconsistofonefacultymemberandonestudent fromeachofoureightgradelevels.Eachstudentremainsinthesame familythroughouttheirRossmanjourney,enablingthemtodevelop deeprelationshipswiththeotherchildrenintheirfamilygroup,as wellastheirRossman“parent.”Aspartofthefamily,thereare gatheringsheldeachmonthwithactivitiesthathelpstudentsengage inRossman’scorevalues,practiceexecutivefunctionskills,show kindnesstothecommunityandmore.

Eachyear,newstudentsarethoughtfullyplacedwithinexisting RossmanFamilieswiththegoalofcreatingdiversitywithineach familyofgenders,backgrounds,learningstyles,andtemperaments andallowingstudentstolearnfrom otherchildrenwhomaybevery differentfromthemselves.Thisalsoallowsforakindoflearning differentfromthatofateacherandstudent.Olderstudentsgetto embraceleadershiproles,whileyoungerstudentsgainadeepsense ofsecurityandbelongingintheirfirstyearsatRossman.

“I[recently]recordedapodcastepisodeforPerspectives-A PodcastbyRossmanSchoolwhereImentiontheimportanceofasafe, nurturingcommunityandhowit’soneofthegreatestgiftswecangive achild,”Fowleadds.“RossmanFamiliesaredoingjustthat.Students areformingcross-agebondsthatprovidevaluablesocialand emotionalskills.Atatimewheretechnologydominatessomuch ofourlives,thisgenuine,personalconnectioniscrucialinearly childhooddevelopment.”

Fowleaddsthatstudentsarealwaysexcitedtoseetheir“family” fromthemomenttheywalkthroughthedooreachday.

“Theyarethefirsttocheereachotheronwhenpresentingatschool assembliesorparticipatinginspecialevents,theylearneachother’s schedulessotheycangreeteachotherinthehallwaybetweenclasses, anditisn’tuncommonforRossmansiblingstohaveplaydatesor meetupsoutsideofschool,”shesays.

Asa“smallbydesign”school,withonly232studentsandoneclass pergradelevel,RossmanFamiliesjustaddstothelayerofcommunity withintheschool.Studentsknowthatthisisaplacewheretheyare safe,knownandcelebratedjustastheywouldwithintheirownfamily.

Fowleconcludesbyencouraginginterestedparentstolearnmore aboutRossmanSchooltoday!

“Therearemanywaystoconnectwithus,”shesays.“Followus onsocialmediaforaglimpseintodailylife,tuneintoourpodcast episodesforinspirationandwisdominchilddevelopment,readour blogandexploreourwebsitetolearnmoreaboutouracademicsand charactervalues.Wealsoinvitefamiliestovisitourcampusforatour oranopenhouse!”

RossmanSchool,12660ConwayRoad,CreveCoeur, 314-434-5877,rossmanschool.org

RossmanSchool OpenHouse Oct.15 Nov.18 Jan.15 8:30-10:30a.m. RSVPat rossmanschool.org

Play On!

By Megan Rubenstein > photos courtesy of Imagination toys

Imagination Toys is celebrating 40 years of inspiring kids to think big. After buying the business in 2022, Lisa Adorjan and Sally Kriegel became the new co-owners of the longstanding Ladue toy store in 2022, carrying on its mission to spark creativity, joy, and of course, imagination.

Starting Sept. 15, the team celebrated with giveaways and double punch days, and they’ll host an actual birthday party on Sept. 20 with an ice cream truck, face painters, balloon artists, cake and more for customers to enjoy as they browse the store.

“We have such a loyal and supportive customer base who shop local and come out and support us as opposed to just going online, so we want to do something for the community as our way of saying ‘thank you’ for supporting us,” Adorjan says. “Without that loyal customer base and the support that we’ve had, we wouldn’t have been here for 40 years.”

The shop was founded in 1985 by friends Marge Versprille and Tegner “Teg” Stokes, who ran it together for several years before Marge’s husband Dan stepped in for Teg. After making the decision to end their run nearly three decades later, former owner Polly Lett bought the shop and ran it for 10 more years before the current ownership began.

Adorjan sees it as a full-circle moment: “The store started out as friends working together to create this toy store and that’s how it’s still working,” she says.

Although the pair works to maintain to tradition – consistently stocking dress-up clothes, Legos and the other classics – it’s no secret that toy trends have changed over the years.

“One thing we try to do is get toys that you cannot find anywhere else,” Kriegel says. “We try to get toys that merge some of that new technology but still keep the creative play and the imaginative play, because that’s what most people are looking for.”

For many modern parents, she says, the goal is to “try to get [their kids] away from the screens.” This guides what toys they choose to bring to their customers.

“If it uses technology, there’s an educational component to it or there’s still that imagination component,” Adorjan explains, referencing toys like the Tonies screen-free storytelling audio player and Abacus Brands kits that help children learn skills like coding.

“We try to be very selective and thoughtful in what we’re bringing in,” Kriegel says.

It’s that thoughtfulness that keeps customers coming back for every birthday, holiday and special occasion year after year.

“We hear stories all the time of how [customers] used to bring their kids in, and now they’re shopping for their grandkids, or they used to come here as a little kid and now they’re shopping for their kids,” Kriegel says. “We want to continue to provide that service and support through generations of families.”

The in-store experience, they contend, is what they feel makes it so special.

“Our staff talks to everybody who comes through the door,” Krieger says. “You can’t get that kind of attention or help in trying to find the perfect toy without being in this kind of environment. … It doesn’t happen when you’re clicking on a computer screen.”

Ultimately, the co-owners hope that in reviving the store, they build upon its longevity with success in the years to come.

Adorjan says: “Twenty years from now, we hope somebody – even if it’s not us – is talking to someone about the 60th birthday party.”

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

RHYTHM Modern

By Nancy Robinson > photos supplied

A clever wallpaper pattern sets the design tone and seamlessly combines with modern lighting and furniture.

thibaut Design presents Saturn, a wallpaper from the modern resource 4 collection. It’s shown in metallic copper and black and comes in three additional colorways, including neutral and pearl, blue, and metallic gold and moss. (greatcoverupdesign.com)

Currey and Company’s memphis cabinet is inspired by the early ’80s design movement of the same name. reflecting the bold patterns inherent in the style, the cabinet is crafted from a mix of natural oak, mahogany, mindi wood in an espresso finish and black macassar ebony. It sits on a large plinth base. (bdaviscompany.com)

Corbett Lighting’s Ginger chandelier wears a combination of hand-applied gold leaf with a modern reflective quality and a soft matte black with an industrial edge. the chandelier is also available in a gold-and-white combination. (wilsonlighting.com)

Katie Lee OwnerandCEO,Katie’sPizzaandPasta

Charming

CONIFERS

By Pat Raven, Ph.D.

Needled evergreen trees for the year-round landscape include pines, spruces, arborvitae, cedars and redwood. Although dawn redwood and bald cypress are technically conifers (cone-bearing trees), they are not evergreen; they shed their needles in the fall along with other deciduous trees. A balanced landscape will include both evergreen and deciduous trees and shrubs.

The short-leaf pine is a Missouri native and excellent for reforestation projects. White pine, commonly available, offers a softer lovely layered branches. You’ll find Austrian pine and Japanese black pine in the Japanese Garden at the Missouri Botanical Garden, where they are pruned annually to maintain their artistic and sculptural forms. My particular favorite is the lacebark pine, a slower-growing medium-sized tree with fabulous peeling bark on the trunk that makes it a focal point in the winter. There is a beautiful, multi-trunked specimen at the far end of the Japanese Garden.

Norway spruce and its multitude of cultivars play many roles in the winter garden. The straight species is a landscape giant, often planted as a single

specimen or in a very small group, and is best placed in open lawn where it has plenty of room to spread out. Many other selections are dwarf forms suited for smaller spaces.

“Cupressina” is a very narrow, vertical variety where height is desired but available footprint is small. Colorado blue spruce makes an excellent silver-blue specimen tree, but needs really good drainage to avoid fungal problems. A better choice for us the Blue Atlas cedar. The standard form, Norway spruce, is a very large maturing the varieties “Horstmann” and the “Glauca pendula” are more suitable for smaller landscapes.

One of the easiest, fastest-growing and most available screening trees is “Green Giant” arborvitae. Although it can mature to 40 feet or more, it can be pruned to maintain it as a hedging plant. “Spring Grove” and “Northern Spire” are two smaller varieties. “Taylor,” a special, very narrow, columnar selection of the native Eastern red cedar, is our local version of the truly elegant Italian cypress. Visit the colonnade of them by the Bakewell Ottoman Garden at MOBOT and you will be impressed.

All evergreens – conifers or broad-leaved types – should be watered well in late fall to prevent winter burn on the foliage. In addition to providing us with windbreaks and privacy, these evergreens offer a protected roost for birds as well as sheltered nesting sites. By leaving any annual pruning jobs until November or December, you will have the added bonus of fresh greenery for your holiday décor.

Experiencetheepitomeofsophisticationinthisone-of-akindfull-floorpenthouse,with2,800squarefeet of openairterracesthatcapturepanoramicviewsinevery direction.Enterfromyourprivateelevatorfoyer to an elegantresidenceoftimelessarchitectureandrefined design,perfectlytailoredforbothgrand-scale entertainingandeffortlessdailyliving.

PriceImproved—LuxuryLivingintheHeartofFrontenac

ChristyThompson Consistentlyrecognizedasa JanetMcAfeeTopAgent

21LynnbrookRoad,Frontenac 5Beds|4Full2HalfBaths|7,215TotalSquareFeet|Offeredat$2,225,000 314.974.6140|cthompson@janetmcafee.com

OpenSunday,September21st,1-3PM Offeredatanewprice,thisFrontenacestateonoveranacreshowcasestimelessarchitectural details,amain-levelprimarysuite,arefreshedlowerlevelwithwineroomandbar,anda4-car garageintheLadueSchoolDistrict. janetmcafeeinc. 9889claytonroad saintlouis,missouri63124 314.997.4800 janetmcafee.com

janetmcafeeinc.I9889claytonroadIsaintlouis,missouri63124I314.997.4800Iwww.janetmcafee.com

L a u r i e B u s c h

Congratulationstomyclientsonbuyingandsellingthisyear—allrighthereintheKirkwoodarea,one ofthemostdesirableareasinourcommunity!Nowistheperfecttimetosellandtakeadvantageof peakbuyerdemand.Let’sconnectforaprivateconsultationanddiscoverwhatyourhomecouldbe worthintoday’smarket.

CROSSWORDPUZZLE

*ValueofthetotalAAAMauiPromotionOffer1 plusHotelWailea® Mauioffers.2 1AAAMauiPromotionOffer: ValidonnewMauibookingsmadeSeptember 1,2025–October31,2025fortravelSeptember1,2025–July31,2026.Minimumfivenights’accommodationataparticipatingresortorhoteland round-tripairfarerequired(excludesHawai‘iinter-islandflights).Hertz5-daycompactcarrentalcredit($380)andactivityvoucher($150)validtowards selecteventsinHawai’i,arenontransferable,nonrefundableandcannotberedeemedforcash.Additionalcarrentaldaysmaybeaddedatadditionalrate. Valueof5-daycompactcarrentalmaybeappliedtoupgradedcarclassesandmaynotberedeemedforcashordiscountedoffthevacationpackage price.Agerestrictionsmayapplyforcarrental.Restrictionsapply.Maynotbecombinablewithotherpromotionsoroffers.Thefullofferisbasedon availabilityandcanbemodifiedorclosedoutatanytime.Notvalidforcontractedgroups. 2HotelWailea® MauiOffers: Roomupgrade($1,190)excludes OVsuites;$100dailyfoodandbeveragecredit($500);$100dailybreakfastcredit($500).Resortfoodandbeveragecreditsandbreakfastcreditsmaynot beredeemedforcash,arenontransferableandmustbeusedduringthelengthofstayatHotelWailea® Maui.MustbebookedinconjunctionwithAAAMaui Promotion.Blackoutdates,additionalrestrictionsorexclusionsmayapply.Offerisbasedonavailabilityandissubjecttochange.Rates,terms,conditions, availability,itinerary,taxes,fees,surcharges,deposit,payment,cancellationterms/conditions&policiessubjecttochangewithoutnoticeatanytime. AdvancereservationsthroughAAATravelrequiredtoobtainMemberBenefits&savingswhichmayvarybasedondeparturedate.Notresponsible forerrorsoromissions.YourlocalAAAclubactsasanagentforPleasantHolidays® CST1016202-80.Tolearnhowwecollectanduseyourinformation,visittheprivacylinkat AAA.com.©2025AutoClubServices,LLC.AllRightsReserved. Photocredit:Hawai’iTourismAuthority(HTA)/TorJohnson.

Givingfor Good DITTOFAMILYRESALE D

By Maggie Peters > Photos courtesyof DittoFamilyResale

DittoFamilyResalewasestablishedin2012through a partnership ofeightlocalChristianschoolsthatshared a commonvision:to create a reliablesourceofscholarshipfundingwhileservingthe largercommunitybyofferingquality,pre-loveditemsforhome andfamilyataffordableprices.

“Ourpurposetrulysetsusapart,”explainsLaurenThorp,boardpresident. “Wearedrivenby a missionofgenerosity,education,opportunity,andcare forourneighbors.WhenyoushopordonateatDitto,you’renotjustfinding greatdealsordeclutteringyourhome – you’realsoinvestingdirectlyinarea studentsandtheirbrighterfutures.”

Sinceitsfounding,Dittohasdistributedmorethan$3.5millionin scholarshipfundingtoitseightpartnerschools.Thorpaddsthatthese schoolsarelocatedinbothSt.LouisCountyandtheCityofSt.Louis,serving studentsfromearlychildhoodthroughhighschool.Oneoftheschools exclusivelysupportsstudentswithspeciallearningneeds.

However,thegivingdoesn’tstopthere.ThenonprofitcreatedtheDitto EducationGrant(DEG)Programtosupporteducationalinitiativesatother areaschools,regardlessoftheirreligiousaffiliation.

“TheideaoftheDEGProgramisrootedinHebrews13:16,‘Donotneglect todogoodandtosharewhatyouhave,forsuchsacrificesarepleasingto

God,’”Thorpsays.“Forthe2024-2025cycle,weawarded$10,000ingrants tohelpfundprojectsandprogramsthatsupportstudentsandstrengthen classroomsacrossthegreaterSt.Louiscommunity.Theapplicationprocess forournextgrantcyclewillopenonOctober15,2025.”

Thorpemphasizesthat,inadditiontoshopping,donatingitemsyouno longerneedisanexcellentwaytosupportDitto’smissionandpromote sustainability.“Thankstoourgenerousdonors,affordable,high-qualityitems fortheentirefamily – andtheopportunitytogiveback – areaccessibleto everyone,”shesays.

Dittomakesthedonationprocesssimplebyoffering a drive-up,drop-off donationarealocatedbehindthestore.Sincefurnitureisoneofthemost sought-afteritemsbyshoppers,thestorehasrecentlyacquireditsown deliveryvan,makingiteasiertopickupdonatedfurniture.

“Dittoisproofthatsmallactsofgenerositycanadduptosomething muchlarger,”Thorpconcludes.“When peopledonategentlyusedhome goods,furniture,andclothing,orchoosetoshopwithus,itcreateslifechangingopportunitiesforstudents.Thisrippleeffectiswhatdrives usforward.”

10027ManchesterRoad,St.Louis,314-394-2026,dittostl.com

EXPERIENCESLUH ATOPENHOUSE

Afabulouslocation,updatedinteriorandbeautifullandscaping, recognizedwithanAwardofExcellencebytheCityofWebsterGroves, allcombinetomakethishistoricOldWebsterhomeaone-of-a-kind property.Itsearliestresidents,theGorefamily,wereoneofWebster’sfirst landowners.Theywouldbestunnedtoseethebeautifulswimmingpool, enclosedfour-seasonporchesandrecentadditionwithanelevatorthat linksthenowbasementgaragewiththefirstandsecondfloors.Theaddition includesabeautifulcountrykitchenwithcenterisland,hearthroomwithgas fireplace,andamudroom/butler’spantry.Theoriginallayoutoffersdouble livingrooms,agrandentryhallwithhandsomestaircase,asunroomthat bringstheyardindoors,andaspaciousdiningroomperfectforentertaining.

Inaworldofinfinitepossibility,there’sno betterplacethanAberdeenHeightsto cultivateaflourishingretirementlifestyle. Exploreandgrowwith SignatureLiving,a multidimensionallifestyleprogramunique toournot-for-profitLifePlanCommunity. Enjoyimmersiveevents,bountifulactivities andwatchnewconnectionsblossom.In ourgarden,retirementisalwaysin season.Contactustodaytolearnhowyou canmakeyourretirementfuturebloom.

eautifullyupdatedone-bedroom,two-bathroomcondoinoneofClayton’s premierhigh-riseswithtoptieramenities—juststepsfromShawPark.Enjoy autumnstrolls,localdining,andupscale,lowmaintenancelivingindowntown Clayton.Theopenfloorplanfeaturesspaciousliving/diningandachef’skitchenwith GE,Miele,Bosch,andTrueappliances.Acustombuilt-inserverdoublesasahome officewithtechwiring,lateralfiles,andaprinterdrawer.Thesereneprimarysuite offerstwoclosets(oneanewwalk-inwithbuilt-insandasafe),spa-likebathroom,and in-unitMielelaundry.Thoughtfulupdatesincludewool-blendcarpetandmotorized windowcoveringswithstunningShawParkviews.HOAcoversutilitiesandaccesstoa 24-hourdoorman,parking,fitnesscenter,rooftoppool,andmore.

Strengtheningthe CommunityasOne

ByMaggiePeters >PhotoscourtesyoftheJewishFederationofSt.Louis

IntheJewishTradition,todoamitzvahis todoagooddeedandtodosowiththe knowledgethatitwillinspireotherstogo outanddogoodintheirlivesaswell.In thisway,givingtothecommunityhelps itgrowandhelpseveryonewithinit.Thisidea drivestheJewishFederationofSt.Louisandits missiontocreateasafeandvibrantcommunity andhelptogrowandsustainJewishlifein St.Louis,inIsrael,andaroundtheworld.

Fornearly125 years,the Federationhas servedasthe central convenerofJewishlife in

the region—bringingpeopletogether, mobilizing resources,andstrengtheninginstitutionstomeet bothimmediateneedsandlong-termaspirations.

Today, the Federationsupportsthe communitybyprovidingfinancialassistancefor JewishDay SchoolsandEarlyChildhoodCenters, as wellasthroughcamps,HillelsandChabad on college campuses,andPJLibrary, which offersmonthly freeJewishbooksand family engagementopportunities.

Supportalso extendstosocialservice agencies andprogramsinSt. LouisandinIsraelto feed

thoseinneed,providefinancialandmentalhealth assistance, andensure dignityandcareforthe mostvulnerablemembersofour community

Anincreasingpriorityisthesafetyand securityofJewishlife.Federationis committedto enhancingsecurity,combatingantisemitism,and ensuringthatour communitycan celebrateand thrive without fear.

“TheneedwithintheJewishcommunityhas neverbeengreater,andpeopleareresponding tothatneed,”saysJanieRoodmanWeisscochairofFederation’sAnnualCampaignforthe

Jewish FederationofSt. Louis

secondyear.“Peopleheardthemessagethatwe createdlastyear.”

Weissandherco-chairGaliaMovitz didn’thesitatetostepupforasecondyear, consideringitboththeirpassionandtheir responsibilitytocontinuebuildingonthe previouscampaign’smomentumandgrow theirreach.Havingincreaseddonationstothe AnnualCampaignover$1millionmorethanthe yearbefore,theyaredeterminedtorepeatthat growththisyear.

“We make sure that we take care ofour peoplewhereverthey are,” Movitz explains. “They know, thatthroughthe Federation’s support,they can getthehelpthey need.Giving any amountmakes youpartofthis community and youknow, if your familyhas a needinthe future,youhavea place to go.”

In2024alone, $8.7million wasinvestedin more than85programsand communitypartners throughCommunityImpactInvestments, endowed funds,and foundations.This yearthe Jewish FederationlaunchedImpactGrants,an agilegrantmakingprocessdesignedto fund innovative,collaborative, andimpactfulprojects, providinganotheropportunitytosupport

Wearesoproud ofhowthecommunity hascometogetherand realizedtheimportance ofgivingtogetus wherewearenow.

–GALIAMOVITZ, CO-CHAIROFFEDERATION’SANNUALCAMPAIGN

programsandneedsinthe community

Federation’s2025AnnualCampaignruns throughtheendofthe yearandany amount helps—includinggivingthroughitsCenter for Legacy Givingandsettingupwillsandbequests, donor-advised funds, a gift from retirement assets,stocks,andendowmentstoplan your mitzvah for generations. Youcan go onlineto learnhowyoucangive today.

“Ilike togive inmultiplesof18—or$18 a month,”Weissadds.“InJudaismthenumber18 representslife, so you’re givinginmultiplesoflife.”

LaterthismonthisthestartoftheJewish newyear,celebratedwithRoshHashanah—the beginningoftheJewishHighHolidays.The holidayisacelebrationofrenewalandstarting theyearhowyouwishtocontinue.Itisalso atimeforfamiliestocometogetherand,of course,atimeforfood.

“Myfamilyenjoysapplesandhoneyto celebratethesweetnessofthenewyear,”Weiss says.“We’llalsodoaprayerforthenewyear andlookbackattheyearthatcamebefore. Wesharewhatwewishforandwhatweare thankfulforaswell.”

This year,youcanbeginbydoing a mitzvah andhelpingnotonlytheJewish communitybut theSt. Louis communityandbeyondbygivingto the Federation.

“We are soproudofhow the community has cometogetherand realizedtheimportance ofgivingto getuswherewe are now,” Movitz concludes.“Thank you forallowingustobe togetherasone.”

Jewish FederationofSt. Louis 12 MillstoneCampusDrive, St. Louis, MO63146 314-432-0020| JFedSTL.org

5786

JewishHolidays 2025-2026

RoshHashanah Eve of September22-24

The JewishNewYearis a timefor reﬂectionand prayer Itbeginswiththe sounding ofthe shofar(a ram’shorn) and includessweetfoodslike applesdippedin honey tosymbolizehopefor asweetyearahead.

Yom Kippur Eve of October1-2

The Day of Atonement isobservedwith a24-hourfast, prayer, andrepentance.It’sa solemnday of reﬂection and seekingforgiveness.

Sukkot Eve of October 6-13

The harvestfeast or Feast of Tabernacles involves buildingatemporary hut (sukkah) andeatingmeals insidethem It commemoratesthe Israelites wandering inthe desert.

Shemini Atzeret Eve of October13-14

The ﬁnalday ofthefestivalof Tabernacles. Customs vary aboutpartaking of meals inthe sukkah There is no use ofthe lulav and etrog

Simchat Torah Eve of October14-15

Thismarks the end ofthe annual Torah reading and the beginning ofthecycle to startreading it again Celebratedwithsinging,dancing,andmerry processions carryingTorahs andchildren waving ﬂags

Hanukkah Eve of December14-22

TheFestivalofLightslastsforeight days.It celebrates the miracleofthe oil intheTemple and involves lighting themenorah, playing with a dreidel,and eatingfriedfoods

TuB’Shevat Eve of February 1-2

This holiday, thenewyearofthe trees,marks the coming ofspring inIsrael Itis celebrated by planting trees andeatingf ruit

Purim

Eve of March2-3

Purim commemoratestherescue ofthe Jewishpeople from a plot to destroy theminancientPersia. Celebrationsinclude reading the Bookof Esther, wearingcostumes, and giving goodies.

Passover Eve of April1-9

Passover commemoratesthe Israelitesliberationfrom slavery in Egypt Theholiday involves a Sedermealwith symbolicfoods, matzah(unleavedbread), andretelling the story oftheExodus

YomHaShoah

Eve of April13-14

Thisday ismarked bymemorialsand dedicationsto those who perishedinthe Holocaust.

YomHazikaron

Eve of April 20-21

Israel’s NationalMemorial Day,honoringveterans and fallen military personnel

YomHa’atzmaut

Eve of April21-22

IsraelIndependence Day is celebrated by Jews around theworld

LagB’Omer

Eve of May4-5

A minor holidaycelebratedwithbonﬁres, picnics, and outdoor activities It’s the33rd day ofthe Omer, a period ofsemi-mourning betweenPassover and Shavuot.

Shavuot

Eve of May 21-23

KnownastheFeast of Weeks,it celebratesthe giving oftheTorahatMount Sinai. Traditions include late-night Torahstudy andeating dairyfoods.

Tisha B’Av

Eve of July22-23

A day of mourning andfastingtoremember the destructionoftheFirstand SecondTemplesin Jerusalem.It’sa timefor reﬂectiononJewishhistory andhopes forthe future.

Jewish holidaystypicallystart intheevening atsunsetandcontinue until thefollowing evening atsunset.

2029WarsonRoad-Ladue

Somehomescarrymorethanhistory—theyhold legacy.Thisextraordinary1931estate,nestledon oversixacresintheheartofLadue,wasentrusted toTheRyanTraditionafter53yearsofownership.

Withmaturetrees,curatedgardens,andarare buildableparcel,thepropertyofferedunmatched privacy,charm,andpotential.Whetherrestoring theoriginalresidence,buildinganew,orinvesting inexpansion,thepossibilitieswereasexceptional asthesetting.

Throughstrategicpositioning,discreetmarketing, andexpertguidance,thepropertysoldswiftly— reflectingbothitsuniquevalueandthestrength ofourrepresentation.

Werepresentmorethanabrand—weembody alegacy.Since1965,ournamehasstoodfor discretion,trust,andresultsintheregion’smost prestigiousneighborhoods.

Inamarketdefinedbynuanceandopportunity, preservinglegacyrequiresmorethanasignin theyard.Itdemandstrustedexpertise,tailored strategy,andareputationthatopensdoors. Whenit’stimetosellahomethattrulymatters, trustthenamethat’sbuilttohonorit.

Thegellmanteam difference

Anaverageagentrelies on2or3tacticstofind homes.Wedon’twaitfor asigntogoupinayard orforanewlistingtohit theMLS.

Wetakeanaggressive progressiveapproachto findhomesforourbuyers.

MLS(MultipleListingService)

Expired/CanceledListings

Pre-Foreclosures/Foreclosures

ForSaleByOwner

Flipping/InvestorInventory

Branding(signs,truck,billboards)

NeighborhoodCallArounds Farming Doorknocking

FACES ofREALESTATE

ByMaggiePeters

Andel-White&McDonald RealEstateGroup

“ListWell.BuySmart.”Thishaslongbeenthecoremessageandbusiness mantraoftheAndel-White&McDonaldRealEstateGroup,whocontinues toleverageeachother’sindividualexpertiseprovidingclientswith unparalleledservice.

“Forbuyers,whetherit’syourfirsthome,yourdreamhomeoryourhome awayfromhome,ourgoalistofindthatperfectplacetocallyourown,aswell asassistyouturningacompetitivesituationintoawinningproposition,”explains theteam.“Whenitcomestosellers,today’schallengingenvironmentrequires professionalswhounderstandwhatittakestogetahomemarket-ready, strategicallypositionitandultimatelymaximizethereturn.”

Thebottomlineforthispowerhousegroupistoalwayshavetheirclients’ bestinterestatheart.

Theyconfirm:“Wetrulycareaboutourclients,andwewillworkdiligently astheirpartnerintheprocess,takingcareofallthedetailssothateveryonecan celebratesuccesstogether!”

BaileyProperties

ExperiencethebestofbothworldswithBaileyProperties,afather-andsonteamthatcombinesdeep-rootedexpertiseinlandwithamodern, energeticapproach.

DrennanBailey,atruepioneer,bringsoverthreedecadesofunparalleled knowledge,avastnetworkofconnections,andalifetimeofcommitmentto stewardshipinMissouri.He’saseasonedexpertwhohassetrecords,facilitated majortransactions,andhelpedcountlessclientsrealizetheirdreamsofowning andsellingfarms.

Partneringwithhimishisson,TaylorBailey,arisingforcewhobringsafresh perspective.Taylor’syouthfulenergy,tech-savvymarketing,andpassionfor peopleensureeveryclientamodern,seamlessexperience.

Together,theBaileysformanunbeatablepartnership—aboutique brokeragecommittedtoGod,family,andclients,ensuringyourgoalsarethetop priority.You’renotjusthiringbrokers;you’repartneringwithalegacyoftrust andafutureofsuccess.

LucyannBoston

Whetherworkingwithexperiencedsellersorfirst-timehomebuyers, LucyannBostonhasbeenatoprealestateagentforthepast18years.Four recentclientssharedsomeofthereasonsforhersuccess.

“Simplythebest.Weneededtoleavetownfastandleftour136-year-old houseinthehandsofLucyannBoston,whocoordinatedeverything.Several projectswereneededtopreparethehouseforsaleincludingsewer,porch,roof. Itsoldquicklyinthiscurrent,higher-ratemarket.”–ErrolandMaryS.

“Asfirst-timehomebuyers,mywifeandIwereunderstandablynervous abouttheentireprocess,butourexperiencewasmadesomucheasierand stress-freethankstoLucyannBoston.Wewouldrecommendhertoanyonewho needsanagentwhotrulycaresandwillbethereeverystep of the way.”– Blade F.

“LucyannBostonhasworkedwithusonmultiplepropertieswithexcellent results”–GregF.

“Lucyannwasverypersonableandprofessional.Shelistenedtoourneeds, providedgoodinsightandwasalwayscommunicative.”–ElliotC.

LaurieBuschisaconsistentJanetMcAfeeTopAgent.Sheispassionate aboutrealestate,herclientsandtheirgoals.Buschexudesagenuineand sincerelong-lastingrelationshipwithherclients.Asshesays,“Iammost rewardedbythepersonalconnectionsthatIhaveformedwithmybuyersand sellers,andwiththecomfortItakeinknowingthattheyaresatisfied.”

Shehasamassed20yearsofconsumermarketingexperiencefromher previouscareeratAnheuser-Busch,inadditiontoexpertiseasarealestate investor.Hermarketingexperienceprovestobeinvaluableforclientslisting theirhome.Herinvestmentknowledgeandattentiontodetailensurethat clientscaneasilyanticipateandreacttochangingmarketconditions.

BuschisanalumnaofVisitationAcademyinTown&Countryandholdsa bachelor’sdegreefromtheUniversityofMissouri,Columbia.AnativeSt.Louisan withadiversebackground,shehasbuiltrelationshipswithlocalinstitutionsand industryprofessionals.Clientsshareinthesesametrustingrelationshipsandcan beassuredthatBuschwillfindtheiridealSt.Louiscommunity.

LaurieBusch

KimCarney

KimCarneyisconsistentlyrankedastheNo.1ColdwellBankerPremier agentandlistedinthetop1percentofallREALTORSinSt.Louis.Shespecializes inthehigh-endrealestatemarket,utilizingauniqueandaggressivemarketing planthatsellshomes.

Differentfromothertopagents,Carneypridesherselfonherproactive approach.Shedoesnotstickasigninyouryard,“hoping”thatyourhomewill sell.Shecreatestop-notchprintadvertisingthatcan’tbebeat.Shealsouses socialmediaboostsandotheruniquetoolsthatmakeasignificantdifference. Sheoffersthenecessaryexperienceandsavvynegotiationskillstogether clientswhattheywant.

CarneyattendedLadueHortonWatkinsHighSchool,wenttotheUniversity ofMissouri-Columbiaandreceivedhermaster’sdegreeincounselingfromthe UniversityofMissouri-St.Louis.Sheisanemptynesternowthatherdaughters, EmmaandGraceareseniorsattheUniversityofKentucky.

Carneyenjoystraveling,pickleballandhangingoutwithherdaughters.After overcomingovariancanceralmost11yearsago,shestaysinvolvedinandgives tonumerouscharitiesdeartoherheart,includingtheSt.LouisOvarianCancer AwarenessorganizationandSitemanCancerCenter.

LisaCoulter

SincejoiningJanetMcAfeein1989,LisaCoulterhasbeenconsistently recognizedasaTopProducer,withlifetimesalesexceeding$500million.With morethan35yearsofexperience,Coulterisknownforherexceptionalservice andherabilitytoguideclientssmoothlythrougheverystageofbuyingorselling ahome.AnativeSt.Louisan,shehasbuiltastrongreferralnetworkandlasting relationshipsrootedintrustandprofessionalism.

Coulter’sexpertiseextendsbeyondtraditionalsales–shehasvast experienceinrelocation,workingcloselywithcorporations,hospitals,and universitiestoensureseamlesstransitionsforbuyersandsellersalike.Whether assistingafirst-timebuyer,relocatingafamilyacrossthecountry,oradvisinga seasonedhomeowner,Coulteriscommittedtocreatingagenuinecomfortlevel andachievingsuccessfuloutcomes.Herdedication,knowledge,andproven trackrecordmakeheraninvaluableresourceintoday’scompetitivereal estatemarket.

MissyFish

MissyFishhasenjoyedeveryminuteofher10yearsasanagentwithLaura McCarthy.Hergoalistodeliver‘legendaryservice’toeveryclient…servicethat isresponsive,efficientandmemorable.Thatlegendaryserviceandthesales itgenerateshasearnedhera‘TopAgent’designationfromLauraMcCarthy from2017-2024.MissyFishhasbeeninvolvedasavolunteerinSt.Louissince 1987andiscurrentlyworkingwiththeSt.VincentdePaulSocietyastheyhelp local‘NeighborsinNeed’withmortgageandutilitypayments.Andhere’ssome bignews…MissyFishsleepswithacelebrityeverynight–KevinBacon,her 18-pound,MaineCooncat!

TheGellmanTeam

BrothersMarkGellmanandNeilGellmancombinedtheirwiderangeof experience,education,andpassionforrealestatetocreateTheGellmanTeam in2008.Theysoldtheirfirstmillion-dollarlistingin2011–and280moresince. Usingtheirprovenprocess,theteamhit$1billionincareersalesin2020and, justthreeyearslater,celebrated$2billionand5,000familiesservedinApril 2024.TheGellmanTeam’scommitmentanddedicationtotheirclientscanbe seenin1,500-plus5-starGoogleandZillowreviews.

MarkGellmanandNeilGellmanareveryproudoftheteamculturethey’ve createdfollowingtheircorevalues–integrity,honesty,professionalism, confidentiality,responsiveness,reliability,attentiontodetail,clientrelationships forlife,givingback,persistingwithoutexception,andfamily-life-workharmony. Oneofthebrothers’greatest,sharedpassionsisgivingbacktothecommunities inwhichtheyliveandwork.Theteamsupportsover90charities.Getaninstant homevaluationattgtvalue.com.

KrissyHofbringshometownheartandinsiderknow-howtoeveryrealestate journeyinSt.Louis.BornandraisedinFrontenacandBrentwood,sheoffers unmatcheddeeplocalrootsandexpertguidance.Withapassionforhelping clientsdiscovertheperfectneighborhoodandthebestfarmersmarkets,dog parks,andrestaurants,Hofmakesithermissiontohelppeoplefallinlovewith hercity.“IfeelresponsibleformakingyouloveitasmuchasIdo,”shesays.

MikeHuggins

MikeHugginshas carvedout aremarkable careerinthe St. Louis realestate market,with10 years asanagentandthelast 8of thoseas aTopProducer Hisdeep understanding of thelocalmarketand genuine commitment to hisclientshelpsthem navigate the complexities of buyingandsellinghomeswith ease.Hisapproachis characterized by patience,meticulousattention to detail,andmasterfulnegotiatingskills.

Before beginninghis careerin realestate, Hugginsspentmanyyearsworkingwith youngpeopleas ayouthminister, shapinghisempathy andlisteningskills,as wellashis ability to buildstrong relationshipsand walkalongsideindividualsthroughlife’s significanttransitions.

“My transitionfromministry torealestatewas a naturalone, combining my loveof workingwithpeoplewith my passion forhomesandarchitecture,”Hugginssays.“One ofmy goalsis for my clients to know that I amthereforthem everystep of the way, and arecent testimonialfrom a clientaffirmedthat I succeededwhenthey wrote the following:‘Workingwith Mike met myevery expectation. I had a lotof questions,and hecheerfully answeredthemall. I didn’t feellikea number,ratherlike someonehe reallywanted to help. We don’t often getthat feelinginlife,but I sure didwith Mike.’”

Outside ofrealestate, Hugginsenjoys spendingtimewithhis family andfriends, workingonhomeimprovementprojects,stayinginshapeatthegym, eatingout,and volunteeringathis Parish,MaryQueen ofPeace.

KrissyHof

Jill&JacqueRealEstate

TheexpertteamofJillAzarandJacqueMileusniciscommittedtohelping youbuyorsellyourhomewithconfidence.Withextensiveknowledgeofthe localmarketanditsconstantchanges,theirdedicationtopersonalizedservice isevidentintheirprovensuccess.Jill&JacqueRealEstateworkstirelesslyto guideyouthrougheverystep,ensuringthatwhetheryou’reafirst-timebuyer oraseasonedseller,youreceivethebestvalueandasmoothtransaction.They takeprideinprovidingtheresultsyoudeserve.Knownfortheirintegrityand communicationskills,AzarandMileusniccollaborateseamlesslywithother professionalstoclosedealssuccessfully.Theirstrongrelationshipsandability tomeetclients’needsconsistentlydrivetheirreputation.Whethernavigating complexmarketconditionsorassistingwithasimplepurchase,Azarand Mileusnicmakesureyouhavethesupportandexpertiseneededtosucceed. Callthemtodayforallyourrealestateneeds.

JanKosmaltransitionedintotherealestateindustryfromahealthcare careerin2000andithasbeenaperfectmatchtocontinueworkingwithpeople toachievetheirrealestategoals.Kosmalandherteamcombinepersonalized serviceandthelatestintechnology.Sheworksaroundtheclockforherclients andhasstrongworkingrelationshipswithagents.Kosmalisafull-timeagentat RedKeyRealtyLeadersandaLuxuryPropertySpecialist.

HerearehowKosmal’sclientsdescribeherdedicationandprofessionalism: Alwaysavailableandpromptwithhercommunications;followsuponevery detail;acalmingforcethroughtheprocess;createsmaximumsellingvalueand forwardthinking;veryknowledgeableaboutthemarketsandallaspectsof realestate;worksforherclientstomakethebestdecisionswithaprofessional andpersonaltouch;couldnotaskforabetteradvocateforthissignificantlife decision.Kosmalhastheexperience,dedicationandpassiontomakeyour dreamareality.

Kosmalbelievesingivingbacktothecommunityandisinvolvedinanumber oforganizations.

JanKosmal

JulieLane

Anindustrystandout,JulieLaneagainistheNo.1agentatJanetMcAfeeand No.3inthestateofMissouri.Herdiscreetapproachallowsherclientstomeet andexceedtheirrealestategoals.Laneprovidesexemplaryserviceandexpert knowledgetoallclientsregardlessofpricepoint.Shespecializesinoffmarket propertiestoensureherclientsareawareofalloptions.

HavingworkedincorporatepriortobecomingaREALTOR,Laneworksvery diligentlytoassistherclientsinsellingtheirhomesforthemostandintheleast amountoftime.Laneandherhusbandarecurrentlybuildingtheirnewhomein Ladueandareproudtocallitscommunityhome.

TheMcClellandTeam

TheMcClellandTeamisranked7thoverallintheSt.LouisRegionby RE/MAXInternational.MattMcClelland,GingerBrinker,SarahSullentrup andRachelleElbertareawell-versedgroupofrealestateprofessionalswith extensiveexperienceintheWashington,Missouriareaandareknownfortheir creativemarketing.Ranking7thintheregionisatremendousaccomplishment andthisteamcontinuestoraisethebar.Theofficeisconvenientlylocatedin Washington,MOat1402WashingtonSquare(RightnexttoJimmyJohn’s).

KeithR.Manzer

KeithR.Manzer was rankedasthe No. 1 agentatGladys Manionin2019and 2020, andthe No. 1teamin2021,2022,and2023withsales of $600-plusmillion, rangingfrom$250,000 to nearly $7,000,000 for a single residence. He possesses 42 yearsofexperience and expertiseinthehigh-endmarketanywhere in St. Louis, andhe continues to maintainan extremely highsuccess rate andstellar reputation by seekingoutnewwaysto promote not only locally, butinternationally.

Hishands-onapproachis akeyfactorinhissuccess. He answers his own phone,creates a custommarketingplan for eachpropertyhelists forsaleor anactionplan to assistbuyers sotheycanachieve theirgoal of successfully purchasing a homeinthis competitive market.Plus,healways shows up – not an assistantoraninexperienced,new agent.Hismotto issimple: workhard andtreat yourcustomers as you wouldliketo betreated.

Manzeralsogivesback to the community.In 2011hesetup a scholarship fundinthememory of hisdeceasedpartnerthathelpsunderservedchildrenand is a pastboard member ofCraftAllianceCenter of Art + Design. He hasalsoled fundraisingeffortsonbehalf of.Louis SymphonyOrchestra, Opera TheatreSt. Louis,The RepertoryTheatre,Siteman Cancer Center,HumanRights Campaign, ContemporaryArt Museum, Women’s Self-Help Center, Doctor’sEventand United Way.

RossiniRealEstateGroup

Asatop-producinggroupwithLauraMcCarthyRealEstate,AllieRossini, LaurenGillentineandDonnaWellmonrelypredominantlyonreferralsfrom satisfiedpastclients,friendsandfamily.Theypridethemselvesonbeing accessible,professional,trustworthy,anddependable.Inaddition,theyvalue kindness,integrity,andhumor—bothpersonallyandprofessionally—and promisetokeeptheirclients’needsatthetopoftheirpriorities,comfortably guidingthemthroughtheprocessofbuyingandsellingwhiledelivering exceptionalcustomerservicefromstarttofinish.Withacombined38-plus yearsofexperienceandover$432milliondollars’worthofsoldproperties, RossiniRealEstateGroupgoesbeyondtheusualexpectations.

TheRyanTradition

Inluxuryrealestate,relationshipsmatter.TheRyanTraditionbringsmore thanmarketexpertise;JohnRyanandTalenaFloydbringtrustedguidance shapedbydecadesofsuccessinSt.Louis’centralcorridor.Since1965,TheRyan Traditionhasstoodfordiscretion,trust,andresultsinSt.Louis’luxurymarket. Thenamerepresentsmorethanabrand–itembodiesalegacy.

JohnRyan’senduringpresenceanddeeplocaltiesarecomplementedby TalenaFloyd’senergy,strategicvision,andsharpunderstandingoftoday’s marketdynamics.Together,theteamoffersarareblendofexperienceand perspective,tailoredtotheexpectationsofdiscerningclients.

Today’sluxurymarketisdefinedbycomplexity–off-marketopportunities, competitivepositioning,andlimitedinventory.Navigatingitrequiresmorethan access;itdemandsprecision,guidance,andareputationearnedovertime.

Inamarketwhereeverymovematters,alignwiththeteamwhosename carriesweightanddeliversresults.

BethSchultz

BethSchultzearnedherMAinCommunicationStudies/PublicRelations andspent12yearsasanadjunctprofessor,blendinghercommunication expertisewithapassionforSt.Louishistory.Thisbackground,combinedwith hersuccessinResidentialandCommercialRealEstate,givesherclientsaunique advantage.Knownforherenergyandpersonalapproach,Schultzbuildslasting partnershipswithbuyersandsellersalike.

SpecializinginSt.LouisCityandCounty,Schultzlivesinthecentralcorridor withherhusbandandfourchildren,givingherfirsthandknowledgeofmarket trends,schools,neighborhoods,andallthethingsthatmakeSt.Louisspecial, includingitsthrivingfoodscene.Sheguidesclientsthrougheverystage,from first-timebuyerstoemptynesters,withcareandattentiontodetail.Proudto callSt.Louishome,Bethcelebratesitsarchitecture,restaurants,parks,and diverseculture.Andofcourse–GoCards!

TedWight

TedWighthassoldrealestateformorethan20yearswithDielmann Sotheby’sInternationalRealtyandisconsistentlyatopagentintheregion. WightgrewupinLadueandattendedSt.LouisPriory.Hecontinuedhis educationatLakeForestCollegeandlaterreceivedhisMBAfromWashington University.HeisontheboardsoftheSt.LouisFashionFund,TheSheldon Friends,MissouriBaptistHealthcareFoundation,St.LouisPublicLibraryand presidentoftheTennesseeWilliamsFestival.

WightlivesinLadueinthehomeWilliamBernoudybuiltforhimselfand enjoysspendingtimeathisfamilyfarminPikeCounty,Missouri.Hehastwo sons–Ira,wholivesinSanFranciscoandworksinBioTech,andNick,wholives inPhiladelphiaandworksatPennInteractive.

CheckoutWight’spopularblog,stlouis.style,andhisInstagrams: stlouis.style,tedwight,clayton.style,cwe.styleandladue.style.

AlyssaSuntrup

AlyssaSuntrupisanactivecommunityleader, accomplishedbusinesswoman, distinguishedphilanthropist,dedicatedvolunteer,andmotherwhohelpslocalsand transplantsfindtheperfectplacetocallhomeinSt.Louis’CentralCorridor.Her professionaljourneyinrealestateisnothingshortofremarkable.

Startingin2018,hercareerskyrocketed.ShewasnamedRookieoftheYearin hersecondyearandtheno.2agentinherthird.Forthelastthreeyears,shehas beentheno.1agent,settingafirmrecordwhenshereached$30Minsalesin2022. Shehassincesurpassed150millioninsalesandhasbeenthe#1agentinUniversity Cityforthepasttwoyears.Heraveragehomesalespriceexceeds1.6M,atestament toherdedicationandhardwork.EvenmoreremarkableaboutSuntrup’sjourney isthatsheexpandedherfamilywhileachievingtheseprofessionalmilestones. Shewelcomedherfirstchildin2016,hersecondin2019,andherthirdin2022. Herdedicationdidn’tstopthere.In2021,sheearnedherBroker’slicense,marking amilestoneofexpertiseinherfield.

Suntrup’sstrongfamilyvaluesareevidentinheractiveroleatOurLadyof LourdesinUniversityCity,wheresheresideswithherhusbandandthreechildren. SheisadevotedSt.LouisChildren’sHospitalpatronandvolunteershertimeon theDevelopmentBoard.Still,shefindstimetovolunteeratherchildren’sschools andisatrusteeforMarylandTerrace,herneighborhoodassociation,showcasinga perfectbalancebetweenherpersonalandprofessionallife.

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Keeping Fashion FUN

By Brittany Nay > photos courtesy of paperdolls

Paperdolls proves playing dress-up has no age limit.

Run by women for women, the stylish local staple is celebrating 20 years of engaging St. Louisans in the ageless art of dressing up.

“Just like the paper dolls you played with growing up, at Paperdolls you can dress yourself in a bunch of different options –something dressy to something casual or classic,” shares Lisa Schmidt, general manager and buyer.

Once six locations, today’s Paperdolls – owned by Beth Morris since 2008 after a family member founded the business in 2005 – is centered on one Ballwin-based boutique offering a collection of both trendy and timeless women’s clothing and accessories from tried-and-true brands. “Whether a shopper is looking for an outfit for a special occasion, to update their wardrobe for an upcoming season or to gift a piece of Paperdolls, we provide styles that work for different ages and body types,” Schmidt says.

Remodeled by a local interior designer in 2020, the store has evolved from its industrial-chic roots to evoke a feminine, softer appeal, with an airy, welcoming palette of pale pinks and warm whites.

“People can [shop] anywhere – it’s our job to make it special,” says Schmidt, who started as an intern in 2010 and has been running day-to-day operations since 2017. “People come in to get that warm, welcoming experience, [have] that in-person interaction and feel like they’re our friends. [Two decades later], customers still shop with us and are intertwined in our lives because of this special boutique shopping experience.”

Paperdolls’ inventory is designed to appeal across generations of women. “I make selections as inclusive as possible,” Schmidt explains. “Our customer base is ages 25 to 30 and up. My mom is in her 70s and I’m mid-30s, and we both shop here.”

During buying trips to Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Dallas and Atlanta, Paperdolls curates collections that are a mix of on-trend fits, advanced basics and classic pieces for women’s everyday wardrobes.

As fall approaches, the shop is full of transitional apparel in blue hues, bold reds, neutral beige and cream colors, and autumnal mocha tones. “The Western aesthetic is huge for fall, so we have some Western-detailed items, such as Western boots and embellished embroidery outfits,” Schmidt says.

The shop’s collection of tops, dresses and jewelry keeps customers coming back for trendy and classic looks alike. Try on chic THML tops,

sophisticated Sanctuary dresses, cool and comfortable Dear John denim, and on-trend Steve Madden shoes, then accessorize with a stylish stock of mixed-metal and pearl jewelry. “Pearls are making a comeback,” Schmidt notes. “It’s a classic that is being highlighted, from pearl details in earrings to necklaces and bracelets.”

From “going to a baby shower, on a girls’ trip or vacationing with [your] husband to grabbing a quick gift before going to dinner with a girlfriend or getting a present for [a] friend’s daughter,” Schmidt says, “Paperdolls has something for everyone.”

Paperdolls, 14418 Clayton Road, Ballwin, 636-527-3655, shop.paperdolls.boutique

BUTTER CHICKEN The Spot

Story and photos by Mabel Suen

Before Rana Jchaj opened The Butter Chicken Spot, he never really liked the color orange. Now, he says with a laugh, it’s his entire brand. These days, Jchaj frequently dresses from head to toe in bright butter chicken-inspired orange as an informal uniform, representing his family’s new fastcasual restaurant in Chesterfield.

The restaurant opened its doors in March on St. Louis’ holiday, 314 Day. Jchaj’s fiancée, Rabiah Illasarie, constructed a lush floral backdrop at the entrance, which lends a complementary contrast to the brand’s bold color palette. “We really wanted to double down with the orange. I’ve even created a little mascot for our company named Mukni,” Jchaj says, explaining that the

name is derived from chicken makhani – another name for butter chicken.

At the quick-service counter, guests will find the mainstay at the forefront, made up of marinated, baked chicken thighs in a delicate tomato-based spiced sauce. “It’s very rich, it’s very creamy and it’s very nice. My dad [co-owner of Taj Palace Indian restaurant in Chesterfield] has crafted the butter chicken to be perfect in a way where it caters to both the American and Indian palate,” he says, noting one major difference between his father’s original recipe and the version used at the shop: “It’s a bit heavier on the herbs – the fenugreek.”

The signature comes à la carte; as a combo

meal with basmati rice or vegetable pulao and naan or garlic naan; or in what Jchaj has cleverly dubbed the “REMIX!” menu, inspired by his love for rap music and hip hop. The “REMIX!” menu modernizes the staple dish, available in made-toorder options such as a butter chicken sandwich, nachos, gyro, salad, loaded fries and pizza.

From the hot table, guests will also find a weekly rotating array of grab-and-go entrée options to pair with the butter chicken, such as chicken saag (chicken and spinach curry), fish vindaloo and aloo gobi (cauliflower potato curry). Appetizer options include samosas, tandoori wings and dal soup, and sweet offerings include mango lassi and kheer (rice pudding).

“We just try to keep it really simple. We like to spotlight a few things at a time for people to focus on, and we want to do those few things very, very well,” Jchaj says.

“People who like the food come in and ask if this is a chain. When I hear them say that, it means the world to me.” he adds. “I did what I wanted to create a cool and distinguished brand and concept that makes people think, ‘No way can this be the only one.’ I want to make sure we create a strong brand that can be recognized everywhere.”

The Butter Chicken Spot is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The Butter Chicken Spot, 14817 Clayton Road, Chesterfield, 636-220-2370, butterchickenstl.com

Queen of Firsts: The Mayfair Hotel

By Emily Standlee

Think you know where St. Louis’ very first rooftop pool was located? And if you’re familiar with actor Cary Grant, could you name which local hotel he favored, even sparking the tradition of leaving a hospitable chocolate on the pillow? Do you know where a certain famous St. Louis-made salad dressing was created? The answer to all three is the same: the Mayfair Hotel.

Now known as the Magnolia Hotel St. Louis, the Mayfair first opened in 1925 at St. Charles and Eighth streets, quickly becoming, and remaining, one of downtown St. Louis’ crown jewels. The hotel’s creator, Charles Heiss, arrived here by way of Detroit in 1915, where he was tasked with managing one of businessman E.M. Statler’s hotels. However, according to Dr. Harley Hammerman’s fascinating “Lost Tables” blog, the two men eventually had a falling out. “A story is told that Heiss had an argument with Mr. Statler and declared, ‘Someday, I’m going to build two hotels close to yours, and they’ll be better than yours,’” Hammerman writes. “Heiss kept his word. The Mayfair Hotel opened a block behind the Statler in 1925, and the Lennox Hotel opened across Washington Avenue from the Statler in 1929.” Maybe it pays to be petty after all.

In any case, Heiss had a dream, and St. Louis architect Preston J. Bradshaw brought the 18-story Mayfair to life. Bradshaw designed many notable buildings in the metro, and throughout the state, including the Chase Park Plaza Hotel near Forest Park, the Autocar Sales and Service Building in Midtown, the Bellerive Apartment Hotel in Kansas City and others. Decked in looming red brick and terra cotta, the Mayfair, now the Magnolia, is still in a class of its own, set apart by its meticulously preserved Italian Renaissance Revival-style details.

There were lots of firsts at the Mayfair: The rooftop pool, as mentioned before; what’s said to be Missouri’s first five-star restaurant, the Mayfair Room; Mayfair salad dressing; and of course, the famous chocolate-on-thepillow turndown ritual. “Cary Grant’s legacy to the Mayfair is said to be the chocolate on your pillow, a tradition he started in the 1950s,” Patricia Treacy, author of the excellent “The Grand Hotels of St. Louis,” writes. “The Mayfair continued the tradition, and it spread all across the country.” The hotel’s longtime manager, Julia Runge King, used to let Grant in through the back door, where he’d use the freight elevator to get to his room. In addition to Grant, famous guests including composer Irving Berlin, actor John Barrymore, filmmaker and “Zorro” actor Douglas Elton Fairbanks Sr. and former presidents Harry S. Truman and Lyndon B. Johnson all stayed at the Mayfair.

And since Heiss was from Bavaria, present-day guests might wonder if he personally chose the Mayfair’s stainedglass windows, which are original to the building. “The restaurant was originally German, so if you look at the stainedglass windows, you’ll see a lot of German themes [like] beer steins and hops and barley,” hotel staff says. “We were actually the first hotel in St. Louis to have air conditioning, and KMOX started here in 1925. They broadcast from a studio on the mezzanine level.”

Time went on, and in 1969, both of Charles Heiss’ hotels were sold to a real estate developer. Over the years, they changed hands, but their restaurants and bars remained glamorously frozen in time. A major renovation in 1977 removed about 85 rooms, enlarging the rest, and in 1979, the Mayfair earned its place on the National Register of Historic Places. Decades later, in 2013 and 2014, the property was transformed into the Magnolia Hotel St. Louis. Today, its owners have preserved many of the Mayfair’s original details – from glittering chandeliers and crown molding to an ornate mailbox that still runs up to the 18th floor. And if you stand in the hotel’s lobby and squint your eyes just right, you can still see Prohibitionera flappers and pinstripe suits, adding to the dazzling magic of it all.

Magnolia St. Louis, 421 N. 8th St., St. Louis, 314-436-9000, magnoliahotels.com/stlouis

photo courtesy of the magnolia Hotel St. Louis

photo courtesy of the missouri Historical Society

& SOUL HEART

By Connie Mitchell

Usually, your “life flashing before your eyes” is just a euphemism. For John O’Leary, it’s a strange and exciting reality.

O’Leary, a well-known St. Louis-based motivational speaker and author, is the subject of “Soul on Fire,” a new film opening nationwide Oct. 10. The movie, by Sony Pictures Entertainment’s AFFIRM Films, is based on O’Leary’s 2016 book “On Fire: The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life” and was filmed in St. Louis.

After suffering severe burns in an explosion at his home when he was 9, O’Leary beat the odds to survive. His story of overcoming adversity, with the encouragement of family and legendary St. Louis Cardinals broadcaster Jack Buck, was directed by Sean McNamara and features an all-star cast including William H. Macy and John Corbett. O’Leary says the attention to detail in recreating his life story is bizarre.

“From filming at my parents’ actual house where I was burned to seeing my wedding at

the Shrine of St. Joseph with the actress wearing my wife’s actual wedding dress, the whole thing is unbelievably surreal,” O’Leary says. “I mean, the people in the wedding scene weren’t paid Hollywood extras – they’re people who were actually at my wedding!”

O’Leary is characteristically humble and sensitive when speaking about the film. “For me, the most beautiful part is that my mom and dad are featured in the film. You have to look, but they’re in the [wedding] scene, standing behind the actors John Corbett and Stephanie Szostak, who play my mom and dad. To see my father in that scene, just a couple months before he passed away, and to see the joy in their eyes, which wasn’t acting but was real, was like a gift.”

O’Leary hopes audiences recognize that his story is about how people come together to create “someone else’s miracle.” He refers to it as a family story, a health care story, a community story, a love story and a celebration of heroes. Many of O’Leary’s personal heroes have cameos in the film, and he has a moment

on camera himself – standing behind the podium as his character, played by Joel Courtney, receives his degree. His wife and four children also have places in the crowd.

“I watched it for the first time on the Sony set with the producers,” O’Leary says. “So all these folks were gathered in the room, and the movie ends, and there was just no noise. I jokingly said, ‘Am I the only one who fell asleep?’ No one was sure how to respond because it was just so emotional.”

O’Leary wants the film to succeed, not just because of the financial and professional investment it represents, but because it allows him to share his message with more people who need hope. “We positively change the world one life at a time, starting with our own. That’s what we do here,” he says of his work in leadership coaching and motivational speaking. “The movie gives us an opportunity to do that at scale.”

John O’Leary, johnolearyinspires.com Soul on Fire, johnolearyinspires.com/soulonfire

photo of John O’Leary and sons with “Soul on Fire” director Sean mcNamara courtesy of John O’Leary

Image supplied

FAtHerS

& FAmILIeS SUppOrt CeNter

10th Annual Pull for Fathers

Schraier

The 10th Annual Pull for Fathers was a complete success – from the turnout and weather to meeting fundraising goals. Held at the Strathalbyn Farms Club in Weldon Spring, the sold-out event treated guests to a lively sporting clay tournament, cocktails, the club’s famous fried chicken dinner, awards and an auction. Proceeds support the Fathers & Families Support Center and its nationally recognized Family Formation Program, a sixweek course offering parenting and co-parenting education, employment and legal assistance, wellness instruction and more. This year’s event raised $120,000 – and plans are already underway to grow even bigger next year.

Visit laduenews.com to see more photos from this event >

First and foremost, the Fathers Support Center just does work that no one else is doing. They are bringing fathers into their children’s lives where those fathers weren’t there before, and they’re doing this with a regimented program. They’re teaching skills that these young men didn’t know they didn’t have, [like] skills in terms of parenting relationships –you name it. The fact that they’ve reunited or united 22,000 young men with their children over the last 27 years absolutely speaks for itself.

– Rodney Bahr EVENT CHAIR AND FORMERLY OF EDWARD JONES

Story and photos by Bryan

Steve Knapp, matt tomc Shan Oliver, Alem Jima, Joe Cross

edward mcCray, Aubrey Yates, Christopher barnes

10th Annual pull for Fathers rodney bahr, ricky Fox, todd Keske, John Kang, Jim blair, Jim Krekeler

LJ Hearn, Keisha Louis

tHe bACH SOCIetY OF

SAINt LOUIS

2025 Gala

Guests gathered at the Women’s Club of St. Louis in the Central West End to celebrate the Bach Society of Saint Louis’ 2025 Gala. The evening began with hors d’oeuvres, drinks and mingling and the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets and exclusive experiences including cooking classes, private dinners and even a royal tea service. After moving upstairs, attendees enjoyed a program honoring Gregory Smith and Robert Duesenberg for their many contributions to the Society, followed by dinner and a series of moving musical performances.

Visit laduenews.com to see more photos from this event >

The Bach Society of Saint Louis continues to be one of the premier arts organizations in the St. Louis region. Supporters joined together [for the Gala] to celebrate 84 years of musical excellence and service. Funds raised at the Gala go to support the ongoing work of the Bach Society as it continues to provide not only excellent choral concerts, but also help fund the educational efforts that reach deep into our community. Thank you to all of the volunteers, attendees and sponsors that helped make this event successful.

– Mark Lawson BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEMBER

Story and photos by Bryan Schraier

Shephali Wulff, melissa payton Joe and Jeanene Dugan

Sheila Shahpari, Stephen and rebecca bolen

philip, Alayne and mindy Smith

Linda Lee, Dennis Sparger, becky Hauk

Ginny and mark Lawson

THEFUTUREOF Forai

Takea lookinside Forai’snew Kirkwoodboutique, where everypurchasesupports refugeesandimmigrants.

Alittlemorethan10yearsago,a refugeefledviolenceinSyriaand eventuallyresettledintheU.S., notsurehowshewouldmakea livingwhileraisingthreekids.Thenonprofit shopForaiofferedheranopportunitytolearn acreativetrade,anditsnewstorefrontin Kirkwoodisopeningdoorsformorerefugee andimmigrantwomentogainindependence.

“Everytimesomeonemakesapurchase ofaForaiitem,theyareprovidingdignity, empowermentandcommunitytoresettled refugeeshereinStLouis,”saysJenniferOwens, Foraifounderandexecutivedirector.“The dignitypieceisprimarilythatyou'regiving, inmanycases,awomanwho'sneverhada chancetohaveherownmoneyortocontribute financiallytoherfamily,theopportunityto dothat.”

OwensstartedForaiin2009,almostayear afterinvitingacoupleBhutanesefamiliesto herhomeforThanksgiving.Shelearnedabout theirrefugeejourneysandfeltacalltosupport familieslikethemwhoresettleintheSt.Louis area.Althoughshedidn’thaveexperiencein retail,OwenshadlivedinUkraineandinRussia forfiveyearswhiledoingministry,sosheknew aboutservicetoothersandwhatit’sliketo establishoneselfinaforeigncountry.

SheworkedwithanartisttodefineForai’s minimalist,daintyjewelrystyle,andhassince expandedtoofferhomedécor,babyitemsand avarietyofethicallymadeaccessories.“We

ByAndreaSmith >PhotoscourtesyofForai

don'twanttobetrendy,butwedowanttobe tunedintowhatpeopleareinterestedin,and thenfitthatinwithourbrandthat'stimeless andclassic,”Owensdetails.Foraisuppliesits artisanswithintentionallysourcedmaterials, instructionandmentorship,andafairwage.

Asajewelryadmin,ArwafromSyrianow collaboratesondesigns,handmakescertain pieces,andhelpswiththedisplaysand customerserviceintheshop.Herlastname isomittedtorespectForai’sprotectivepolicy.

Withyoungkidsathomeandlimited transportationoptions,Arwaappreciates Forai’sflexibleworkenvironmentthatallows hertobeintheofficeorshoponlyafewdays aweekandthentakematerialshometo workonherowntime.“Wecancareforour family,andwecandoourjob,”shesays. “Theyunderstandwecamefromadifferent culture–differenteverything–sotheyhave alotofpatienceforus.Step-by-step,[they’ve helpedme]learneverything.”

Upuntilthissummer,Forai,whichis anacronymfor“friendsofrefugeesand immigrants,”operatedasjustanonlineshop withpop-upeventsandretailpartnersacross theU.S.Itsfirstbrick-and-mortarshopnow sellsitemsbyForaiartisansplusgoodsfrom similarlyalignedorganizations.

“Everyitemhasastorybehindit,because everyitemismakinganimpactonotherpeople forgood,”Owensdescribes.“Wehaveproducts fromorganizationsworkingwithsurvivorsof

domesticviolence,survivorsoftraffickingand peoplecomingoutofaddiction.…Youhave artistsorcommunitiesin,say,India,whoare keepingaliveacertaincraftandensuringthat peopleareworkinginsafeconditions, receivingfairwages.”

Owensfeelsoptimisticaboutthestore providingadditionaljobsandmoreworkfor currentartisans.Theteamisproudtoagain participateintheMissouriBotanicalGarden’s BestofMissouriMarketonOct.3to5,and they’llhosta“sip-and-shop”eventonOct. 24tobringmorepeopleintotheboutique. Thisshoppingeventwillreplacetheannual fundraiserthisyearastheydirectfinancial andstaffingresourcestothestorefrontlaunch.

“IcouldneverhaveimaginedthatIwould haveendedupstartinganonprofitandthat wewould,16yearslater,haveourownretail space,becomemoreknowninSt.Louis,and besellingacrosstheUnitedStates.Iwasjustat homewithourkidsandlooking,alwayskindof wondering,howGodwantedmetobeinvolved inwhatHewasdoing,”Owensreflects.“What wereallyhopewouldbetrueforeverywoman involvedinForaiisthatshewouldbeableto movepastjustkindofsurvivingandcaringfor herfamily,tohavingherownpersonaldreams andworkingtowardreachingthem.”

Forai,211S.KirkwoodRoad,Kirkwood, 314-793-4814,forai.org

BEST OFTHE FEST

ByDrewGieseke

RAISEASTEIN ATTHESE2025 OKTOBERFEST EVENTSAROUND ST.LOUIS.

The returnof fallmeans football, cooler weather,changingtree colorsand festivalsthat fillcalendarsallthe way untilThanksgiving. Oneofthemostpopularautumntraditionsis Oktoberfest, a timetoenjoya steinwith friends and familyin celebrationofGermanheritage andallthe festivitiesthat comewithit.

OktoberfestSt.LouisinTheGrove Sept.26to28

HeaddowntoTheGrovetocelebrate OktoberfestatUrbanChestnutBrewing Company,afan-favoritebreweryknownforits German-inspiredbeers.

TheeventtakesplaceatUCBC’sGrove Bierhall (4465Manchester) onFridayand Saturday,thenconcludeswithafamilyfriendlyBavarianBrunchattheMidtown Brewery&Biergarten (3229Washington) Festivalgoerscanenjoypolkamusic, participateinasilentdisco,peruselocal vendorsandmore.

urbanchestnut.com/events/oktoberfest-st-louis-2025

Zootoberfest Oct.4to5and10to12

Nowhereelsecanyougetpolkas,pretzels andpenguinsinasinglestop.Justliketypical zooadmission,entrytotheSaintLouisZoo’s Zootoberfestisfree,andthewholezoo campus (1Government) willremainopen duringtheevent.Oct.10willalsofeaturethe zoo’sfirstZootoberfestatNight,keepingthe fungoingfrom5to8p.m.

Beersfromaroundtheworldand margaritaswillbeavailable(plusrootbeer andspecialactivitiesforthekiddos)withlive musicandGermanfareforall.

stlzoo.org/events/zootoberfest

OktoberfestatWestportPlaza Oct.17to18

WestportPlazainMarylandHeights (111W. PortPlaza) has aweekend fullof funplanned for itsannualOktoberfest event.

Thepartykicksoffon Friday, Oct.17,from 5 to 9p.m.,withlive music featuringthe Russo & Co. Band.Oktoberfest continuesonSaturday with performances fromDieSpitzbuam,The Wurst BavarianBandandUbercool,as wellasdances from a traditionalGermantroupe. Alongthe way, guestscansavorbratwursts,pretzelsand cold Germanbeer – andparticipatein a stein-holding competition – insuitableOktoberfeststyle.

westportstl.com/event/oktoberfest

St.CharlesOktoberfest Sept.26to28

HistoricSt.Charles (500S.Riverside) has madeitsnameasaregionaldestinationfor seasonalcelebrations.Thedowntownishome tocharmingarchitecture,makingitanideal backdropforeventslikeOktoberfest.

Thisyear,eventattendeescanexpect dachshundraces,anantiquecarshowandthe aptlynamed“WurstRaceEver”(featuring5K and10Kruns),justtostart.Thefestivalisfree toenter,althoughthereareVIPopportunities andavarietyofbratsandbrewsavailablefor purchaseonsite.

saintcharlesoktoberfest.com

SoulardOktoberfest Oct.10to11

No St. Louis celebrationis complete without a visittoSoulard,thecity’s unofficialpartydistrict.This year’s Oktoberfesttakesplace inSoulard Market Park (South 8th) andoffers afun-filled experiencefortheentirefamily.

Traveldowntowntothehistoric neighborhoodand getthepartystarted. Attendeescan expect everythingthatmakes anOktoberfestgreat,includinglive music, Bavarianbites, a stein-holding competitionand plentyofauthenticGermanbeerto go around.

soulard-oktoberfest.com

Oct.4

ThisOlivettebierhallandbrewery (9514 Olive), which openedin Februarythis year, celebrates goodbeer year-roundwithitssmallbatch,European-style, locallybrewedalesand lagersservedalongsidealpine fusioncuisine ForitsinauguralOktoberfest,GHBCannounced two specialbeersonInstagram:thesmoothand crispMärzen,whichwastraditionallybrewed andlagered forsixmonths,andthestronger Festbier, which they say is“thestyle you’llfind atOktoberfestinMunich thesedays.” One-liter mugswillbe available. greatheartbrewing.com

Oktoberfestat theSt.LouisRenaissanceFestival Oct.11to13

TravelbackintimetotheRenaissanceera tocelebrateOktoberfestamongthedamsels andknightsofyore.

TheSt.LouisRenaissanceFestivalat Wentzville’sRotaryPark (2577WestMeyer) is anannualtraditionunlikeanyother,making itaone-of-a-kindwaytojoininonthefall festivities.Thisyear,festivalgoerscancounton activitieslikeakegtoss,lederhosencontest, sauerkrauteatingcompetitionandevenkidappropriateopportunitiesforfamilies.

stlrenfest.com/oktoberfest-2

ByCarrsonMcDaniel

Breath aDeep Take

MINDFULNESS PRACTICESCAN HELPEASETHE BACK-TO-SCHOOL TRANSITION FORKIDS.

Althoughtheback-toschoolseasonmight beexcitingforsome parents,itcanbe dauntingforchildren.Thecarefree daysofsummerarenowreplaced byanxietytostarttheyearoff right.Whetherit’sacademicor socialpressure,kidsofallages havealotontheirplateswhen returningtoclass.Thepractice ofmindfulnesscanbeahelpful exerciseforstudentsandtheir parentstocombatthesestressors.

Dr.LauraChackes,alicensed psychologistandownerofThe CenterforMindfulness&CBTin CreveCoeur,notesthatback-toschoolstresscanbetriggeredbya changeinroutineandthefearof theunknown.

“Goingfromthesummerwhere thingsarelaid-backandthere’s lessstructure[tothestructured routinesoftheschoolyear]causes alotofstressandpressurefor kids,”shesays.“There’salotof uncertaintythatcomesalong withstartingschool:[Kidsare wondering,]‘AmIgoingtolikemy teacherortheclass?Isitgoingto betoomuchhomework?’”

Althoughtherearemany differentwaystopractice mindfulness,suchasmeditation, Chackessaysthattheoverallgoal ofmindfulnessistobringoneself backintothepresentandslow downourthoughts.Muchlike physicalexerciseforourbodies, consistencyiskey.

“Youcan’tjust go tothegym onceayearand... feel good,” Chackessays. Togetthemost benefits frommindfulness,she recommendspracticingitonce a day, evenjust for acoupleofminutes.

LisaRoberts,founderofthe YoYoYogaSchoolandtheinpatient yogatherapyprogramatSt.Louis Children’sHospital,saystheright mindfulnesstechniquedependson achild’sageandpersonality.

“For younger children,that mind-body connectionmay notbe developed.…Ijustmake itasplayful and funaspossible,” shesays.“Ican

have eight-year-oldsthat’llbelike, ‘No, that’skidstuff,I don’t wanna dothat,’ andI’llhave 10-year-olds whostilllike todothekidstuff, so it’s reallyaboutknowingthe child andwhatappealstothem.”

Whenkidsareontheirown atschoolandwanttopractice, Robertsrecommendsanexercise

loweritdowntothegroundfloor.”

Robertssays“ElevatorRide”can beperformedbyanyagegroupand doesn’tattractalotofattentionto practiceinpublic.

“That’soneyoucandoatyour desk,oryoucandoitstandingas well,andnobodywillknowwhat you’redoing,”shesays.

“Goingfromthesummerwhere thingsarelaid-backandthere’sless structure[tothestructuredroutines oftheschoolyear]causesalotof stressandpressureforkids.”

Dr.LauraChackes LicensedpsychologistandownerofTheCenterforMindfulness&CBT

called“ElevatorRide.”Theexercise beginsbyimagining yourspineasan elevatorshaftwhilesittingstraightup.

“I’m goingtoput a littlecabinof peoplerightat yourtailbone, and as youbreathein, you’regoingto imaginethatelevator goingallthe way uptothetopfloor,” shesays. “Andthen,as youbreatheout,slowly

Yogaclassesare anotheroption forkidstopractice mindfulness outside ofhomeorschool.In partnershipwithSonJoriaSydnorof Black KidsDo Yoga,TheCollective STLoffers freehour-long classeson thesecondSaturday of everymonth at11:30a.m forkidsages 5 to11.

“Wefocusonunderstandinghow

PhotobyJauronSydnor,courtesyofTheCollectiveSTL

thebreathsupportsour well-being and connectitwithourbodies throughposesand games,” shesays. “There’splentyoftimetopractice self-awarenessandself-regulation, becausekids’ yogaclassesare sometimesloudandactive andother timesquietandstill.”

Sydnorrecommendsthat children’syogashouldbeplayful, becausechildrenlearnbest throughplay.

“Weusebreathingpropsin ourclassesincludingbubbles, Hobermanspheres,scarvesand feathers.Movementisgreatfor childrenbecauseitsupportsspatial awareness,balanceandmore,” shesays.“Weusebooksandplay movementgameswithposes.We evenaddinanobstaclecourse. Andwealwaysendclasswithafew minutesofrest–you’dbeamazed athowmanyofourchildrensay it’stheirfavoritepart.”

As forparents,Chackessays that they are mosthelpfulifthey also practice withtheir children:“If we’re not regulatedwithouremotions, thenthekids[are] goingto come homeandsay, ‘That wassostressful,’ andthen we’regoingtosay, ‘Oh my God,whatam Igoingtodo?’and we getstressed. … Thatjustmakesthe kidmore stressedandanxious.”

Findingaspecifictime,like duringanafter-schoolsnackor bedtime,toexercisethemindis alsohelpful,Chackessays.

“Alotoftimes,kidslikethe bedtimemeditations,especiallyif theyhavetroublefallingasleep,” shesays.“Youcouldjustsitinyour kid’sbedandmayberubtheirback whileyoulistentogethertoafiveminutecalmingmeditation.”

TheCenterforMindfulness&CBT, 967GardenviewOfficeParkway, St.Louis,314-561-9757,mindfulstl.com

TheCollectiveSTL, 1400N.MarketSt.,St.Louis, 314-200-5796,thecollectivestl.org

YoYoYogaSchool, yoyoyogaschool.com

PhotobyBHBrandCo,courtesyofTheCenterforMindfulness

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