Clayton, MO April 2021

A P R I L 2 02 1

Nature & Beauty

S T Y LE + B E AUT Y EC O - F RI EN D LY AC T IVE WE AR LI F E + C U LTU R E H OW D O ES YO U R G ARD EN G ROW? TR AV E L M IS S O U RI'S B ES T K EP T SEC RE T

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

APRIL 2021 PUBLISHER

Kelley Lamm | kelley.lamm@lifestylepubs.com Gordon Montgomery gordon.montgomery@lifestylepubs.com

Nature & Beauty

Margo Cooper | margo.cooper@lifestylepubs.com

APRIL BRINGS US CLOSER TO NATURE AND WITH IT GREENER GRASS,

Rachel Chrisman

BUDDING SPRING FLOWERS, AND WONDERFUL WARMER TEMPERATURES.

L AYO UT DESIGNER

It also brings beauty to our annual Eco issue.

Emily Lisenbee

An eco-friendly lifestyle means living a life that is environmentally friendly where

Victoria Babu, Julie Brown Patton, Kathleen Kaiser, Judy Peters, Linda Jarrett

ACCO UNT MANAGER

AD DESIGNER

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

everyone works toward protecting and conserving nature and polluting less…by recycling as much as possible and conserving water and fuel, thus reducing the carbon footprint.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jeff Brockmeyer, Gordon Montgomery

That can also mean designing landscaping to your home and including a sustainable garden and plenty of trees. You can find tips for that on page 26.

And what better way to enjoy spring than to take a road trip to Echo Bluffs State Park near Eminence? Read all about this Ozarks treasure on page 22. While you’re there, look for the local herds of beautiful wild horses.

Closer to home, be sure to check out one of the newest additions to The Streets of St. Charles…Napoli III, for some Southern Italian fare like no other. We’re just elated that Kye Pietoso finally made it to St. Charles with the opening of his family’s third Napoli restaurant.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

An eco-friendly lifestyle means driving less and walking or bicycling more, and eco-

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

friendly active wear so get out and enjoy the fresh spring air at the numerous parks

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

and trails in St. Charles and St. Louis County. And when you’re ready for a rest, we

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

hope you enjoy relaxing with this issue of Clayton Lifestyle.

Happy Spring, 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Kelley Lamm-Montgomery & Gordon Montgomery

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Clayton Lifestyle | April 2021

CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

Proverbs 3:5-6 Clayton Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Clayton area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Clayton Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

5

INSIDE THE ISSUE APRIL 2021

FEATURES 22 Missouri's Best Kept Secret Get Away From It All at Echo Bluffs State Park For An Unforgettable Experience

24 Restaurateurs Pietoso's Trio New Napoli III Italian Restaurant Opens In St. Charles County

26 How Does Your Garden Grow?

Designing a Garden With a Positive Impact

30 26

30 Eco-Friendly Yoga Activewear Company's Gear Stands For Noble 'Saving The Earth' Cause

22

24

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Water & Woods

16

Back Stage

22 Road Trip 24 Hot Spot 26 Locally Owned 30 Trend Setter 34 Page Turners

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GOOD TIMES

Service Project Supports Homeless Fifth graders at Brentwood-based Saint Mary Magdalen Catholic School made "blessing bags" for the homeless. Every bag included a handmade card from each student and was donated to the Loaves and Fishes for St. Louis organization, which is an emergency shelter and food pantry. PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE SCHOOL.

1.

Ever Witnessed An Octopus Gender Reveal?

St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station recently mourned the natural death of Giant Pacific Octopus, Fluffy. To welcome a new octopus, biologists hosted a gender reveal at the St. Louis Wheel through a light-show with pink/blue color themes before showcasing the one. It was the first time the Wheel show was performed for an animal. Met new Loki yet?

1. Fluffy 8

Clayton Lifestyle | April 2021

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AROUND TOWN her debut single, “Lullabye.” The song was written by Ja Noelle to assure young women they have worth.

At the age of 11 years, Morgan produced an EP with the song "Yes, Jesus Loves Me." She also recently was accepted into the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston. She says music "takes her to a whole other place."

On top of music, Morgan says she keeps a balanced schedule to include schoolwork and community service.

APRIL 2021 SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION STATUS FOR BRENTWOOD In April, the terms of two Brentwood School District Board of Education Directors will expire. The new three-

FEED DINOSAURS TO RAISE MONEY FOR CANCER RESEARCH

year terms will run from April 2021 – April 2024.

Two candidates filed to run for the two director positions: Theresa Kouo and James D. (Jamie) Allen, III. In

Enjoy meals at participating Pasta House restau-

accordance with Missouri statutes and Brentwood

rants and support the St. Louis Men’s Group Against

School District policy BBB-1, the number of candidates

Cancer nonprofit organization in raising money for cancer

who filed is equal to the number of positions to be filled,

research, care and prevention by "feeding" money to

therefore no election is needed.

brightly colored dinosaur collection units in the lob-

The Board of Education reorganization meeting

bies of these two Pasta Houses: LADUE, 8831 Ladue

is scheduled for April 20 at 7 p.m. in the Conference

Road, Colonial Marketplace; and BRENTWOOD, 2539

Center at 1201 Hanley Industrial Court. Both Theresa

S. Brentwood Blvd.

and Jamie will be sworn in as directors, and will begin

Additional Pasta House locations also have collection dinosaurs, in Creve Coeur, Ellisville, Ballwin, North County, St. Peters, O'Fallon, South County, Arnold and Affton.

This dinosaur campaign will conclude at the end of July.

serving the new term at that meeting.

OFS CELEBRATES 15-YEAR PARTNERSHIP WITH ST. LOUIS BLUES, LEVY Nonprofit hunger relief organization Operation Food Search (OFS) is celebrating the group's 15th anniversary partnership with Levy, the dining and hospitality partner at Enterprise Center and Stifel Theatre. The collaboration has provided 1,135,000 donated meals made with provisions from St. Louis Blues home games and other Enterprise Center events.

The arena’s donated food—which for a typical Blues home game averages 1,000 pounds—is either picked up by OFS or nearby St. Patrick Center and then distributed to those experiencing food insecurity. The donated food ranges from typical concession stand fare, such as hot dogs and chicken fingers, to pork, fruit cups and salad.

Founded in 1981, OFS is located at 1644 Lotsie Blvd.

With a strategic focus aimed at ending childhood hunger, OFS empowers families and increases access to

LADUE TEEN SINGER LAUNCHES MUSIC CAREER

healthy and affordable food. The agency provides food and services to 200,000 individuals on a monthly basis – one-third of whom are children – through a network

Ladue Horton Watkins High School senior

of 330 community partners in 27 Missouri and Illinois

Morgan Taylor released a music video to accompany

counties and the city of St. Louis. For information, call 314.726.5355 or visit Operation Food Search.org.

10

Clayton Lifestyle | April 2021

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WATER & WOODS

ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON

ECO-FRIENDLY

PRIORITIES

CLAYTON RECOGNIZED IN ST. LOUIS METROPOLITAN'S GREEN CITY CHALLENGE

CLAYTON WAS SELECTED AS A 2020 GREEN CITIES CHALLENGE AWARD RECIPIENT, WHICH ACTUALLY HONORS YEARS OF THE CITY’S STAFF AND RESIDENTS FOSTERING A HOLISTIC AND HEALTHY OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL. This eco designation serves as a complete thumbs up to the true green thumb of Patty Deforrest, Clayton’s longtime director of the parks and recreation department and nationally certified parks executive. She’s worked for the city since 1999, initially as the aquatics supervisor, then becom2002.

Clayton earned a Tree City USA designation in 1991, and for-

She’s now part of the

mer Mayor Linda Goldstein was known for encouraging and starting

team that oversees main-

green initiatives during her 2007-2013 term.

ing

director

in

tenance of the municipality’s 12,000-plus trees.

As a subset of the St. Louis Green Business Challenge initiative, the St. Louis Green Cities Challenge is a Missouri Botanical Garden program that supports sustainability within operational requirements unique to local governments. Participating municipalities incorporate sustainability policies and secure measurable results in environmental, financial and social areas.

Patty says the city’s focus on environmental enhancements ramped up when Clayton board of aldermen created a Sustainability Advisory Committee with volunteer residents during June 2012. In fact, ensuring Clayton provides attractive green spaces is part of the city’s strategic plan.

Clayton Mayor Michelle Harris 12

Clayton Lifestyle | April 2021

(From left): Gary Feder, Ted Spaid, Patty Deforrest, Bob Chapman

“ L E D B Y O U R S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y C O M M I T T E E , WE’LL CONTINUE TO PRIORITIZE GREEN P R A C T I C E S , I D E N T I F Y I N G A D D I T I O N A L W AY S C L AY T O N C A N C O N T I N U E T O B E A S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y L E A D E R I N T H E S T . L O U I S R E G I O N .”

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

13

WATER & WOODS (CONTINUED)

“What to do makes sense, such as ensuring that new buildings

Patty Deforrest

are Silver LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified, but initially, the challenge was paying for it. Even designing and constructing a new ice rink with this level of certification was estimated to cost an additional half million dollars,” she says. “Like us, the whole world is grappling with how to prepare for climate change. It’s the ‘short-term pain for long-term gain’ factor.”

Clayton Mayor Michelle Harris says the city has a strong record of valuing sustainability. “Recycling programs, use of rain gardens, a city-wide smoking ban, and commitment to green building design are embedded into our culture and operations,” she adds.

The mayor confirmed that joining the 2020 Green Cities Challenge proved invaluable, helping them focus efforts to revisit past accomplishments and determine future priorities. “Led by our Sustainability Committee, we’ll continue to prioritize green practices, identifying additional ways Clayton can continue to be a sustainability leader in the St. Louis Region,” she says.

(From left): Patty Deforest, Kyle Andrews, Ted Spaid of SWT Design

14

Clayton Lifestyle | April 2021

CLAYTON’S RECENT SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS INCLUDE: + Implementing energy management software to track and report on energy usage and monitor measures taken to conserve energy. + Renovating the city’s recreation hub, Center of Clayton, including installation of high efficiency HVAC systems, LED lighting with occupancy sensors, installation of ENERGY STAR appliances and planting stormwater detention facilities with native landscaping. + Replacing the City Hall/Fire Station boiler with 96% thermal efficiency, low emissions

and multi-heat

exchanger

boiler. City staffers shared that lowered thermostats in the Fire Station engine bay in November 2019 resulted in a savings of nearly 11,000 therms of energy. + Removing invasive species throughout city parks and rights-of-way has been a priority for years, but during 2020 staffers achieved nearly full eradication in Clayton’s developed parks. + Replacing water fountains with water bottle fillers throughout city facilities and parks to reduce use of plastic bottles in the community. + Installing a woodland native urban trail in Oak Knoll Park, including more than 700 native plants and bushes that will ensure the area thrives.

“This award helped set the standard of where we go now. We paused for 5 minutes to celebrate, but honestly, went right back to brainstorming what more we could do better. We still have a long way to go, so we can’t stop now,” Patty says.

She confirms that Clayton again is participating in the 2021 Green Cities program.

Highlighting the $300 million, 7-mile St. Louis Metropolitan Sewer District’s new underground sanitary tunnel project underway in Anderson Park (previously Haddington Court) off Clayton Road, Patty is quick to remind that it’s a wonderful way to use parkland to address stormwater management. “We can’t wait to reopen it all next year.”

CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

15

BACK STAGE RATED PG-13 - 1 HR. 37 MINS. - STARRING ANTHONY HOPKINS AND OLIVIA COLMAN

ARTICLE KATHLEEN KAISER

5 S TA R REV IEW O F TH E FATH E R AS NONE OF US ARE ESCAPING OUR OWN EVOLUTION TOWARD THE TWILIGHT YEARS— WHETHER WE WANT TO FACE THIS REALIZATION OR NOT—WE HOPE AND PRAY THAT DEMENTIA WON’T CREEP IN, ROBBING US OF THE LIFE WE ONCE KNEW. Welcome to the heart-wrenching premise behind director and writer Florian Zeller’s latest creation: The Father.

As we meet Anthony (Anthony Hopkins), he’s struggling to understand why his daughter Anne (Olivia Colman) is always hovering, as he’s perfectly fine, living alone in his exquisite flat in the heart of London.

Torn on what to do, because her father’s mental state seems to be diminishing quickly over a few

Center: Anthony Hopkins as Anthony in THE FATHER. Photo by Sean Gleason.

Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics.

months, Anne attempts to bring in an aide to assist her father with his daily routine. Enamored initially by his new aide Laura (Imogen Poots), Anthony seems

This film literally draws you into the insanity of dementia,

to be pleased with having a fresh face with whom

and how it starts to rob elderly of any sense of reality, forcing

to converse. But just as quickly as his excitement

them to live in a constant state of confusion, with no means of

for this new arrangement began, it meets with its

escape. Brilliantly acted by Academy award winner Anthony

demise. Anthony is sure that Anne and Laura both

Hopkins, whose performance definitely warrants all the acco-

have ulterior motives, and just want to get rid of him.

lades it received throughout this year’s awards season. Olivia

As Anne struggles with what’s the best thing

Colman also gives an exceptional performance within her role

to do for her father and his safety in his present

as the daughter, who painfully must decide what’s the best

state of mind, she, too, comes to the realization

course of action to care for her father, as best she can. When

that neither she, nor her father, are equipped to

you add in the wonderful performances by Imogen Poots and

face all the uncertainties that lie ahead.

Mark Gatiss as well, The Father becomes one of the most

Mentally captivating throughout, Florian brings this very painful scenario of real life to a pinna-

exceptional films of the year, totally warranting taking the time to view it on streaming services immediately.

cle in moviemaking, as viewers find themselves as confused as the characters on screen--as to what is real--or what’s actually happening in the dementia-filled mind of The Father.

16

Clayton Lifestyle | April 2021

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Full STEAM

food ahead AWARD-WINNING CLAYTON GARDEN CLUB TEAMS UP WITH HEAD START PROGRAM TO CREATE GARDEN AND APPRECIATION OF PLANT SCIENCE ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON

AS ONE OF THE NATION’S LONGEST-STANDING GARDENING

helping to prepare them for future STEAM

ORGANIZATIONS, IT WAS BEFITTING THAT THE 81-YEAR-OLD

(Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and

CLAYTON GARDEN CLUB RECENTLY RECEIVED A $1,000

Music) learning,” explains Diane.

PLANT AMERICA COMMUNITY PROJECT GRANT AWARDED

BY NATIONAL GARDEN CLUBS, INC.

Funds for this project will provide materials for two raised beds for each classroom,

Diane Denney Rogers, vice president of the local garden club

with children using all five senses while

and Clayton resident, says they were one of only three grants

learning, exploring and growing vegetables

awarded to Missouri garden clubs, out of 56 awarded throughout

and herbs. Diane says the project is slated to

the United States.

be completed by this June, culminating in an

“The club’s original purpose was to study and promote the love

“Eat What You Grow” celebration.

of gardening, landscape design, floral design, horticulture and

The Mt. Zion Head Start staff indicates

bird life while aiding in the protection and conservation of natural

their plan is to continue using the raised

resources and to promote civic improvement,” Diane says. “As our

beds in future years.

world changes, so does the enactment of our club’s goals, with them

Constitutionally limited to 30 members

now taking many forms to meet the current needs and environment

since its beginning, the current Clayton

challenges of our morphing world and community.”

Garden Club has 28 members dedicated

Regarding the new grant, she says the club’s members decided

to improving the environment and associ-

to partner with the team at the Urban League of Metropolitan Saint

ated communities. Members consistently

Louis’s Head Start Mt. Zion location, 1440 S. Compton Ave., to use

provide skills and services that benefit the

the funds to create raised garden beds and to buy soil and child-

local area. Patti Reineke, the club’s yearbook

sized garden tools. Club members are donating necessary seeds.

chair, spotlights those examples in club

“This project’s goal is to enable children and teachers to develop a love of gardening and to introduce plant science to young children,

18

Clayton Lifestyle | April 2021

results such as: (see page 21)

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

19

FULL STEAM FOOD AHEAD (CONTINUED) Clayton Garden Club members

20

Clayton Lifestyle | April 2021

Illinois and Missouri’s most trusted Creating a garden center for the St. Louis County Library– Mid-County Branch in Clayton, plus annually donating a book on gardening to the library.

Holding flower shows since 1979 at The Hanley House, Clayton’s historic landmark, as well as decorating the house for Christmas tours and planting bulbs and herbs on the grounds.

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Planting a living legacy garden at Meramec Towers Building in Clayton, working with county parks department staffers.

Assisting with maintaining the sensory garden in Shaw Park and planting the Missouri state tree, the Hawthorne, there.

WET

DRY

CRACKED

REPAIRED

BEFORE

AFTER

Dedicating a Blue Star Memorial Marker to honor veterans at the Center of the Clayton Recreation Complex.

Presenting citation awards for outstanding gardens to two Clayton businesses: Barry-Wehmiller on Forsyth Boulevard and Enterprise Headquarters on Brentwood Boulevard.

This beloved garden club was created in 1939 by Mae Shaw, wife of Charles Shaw who served as Clayton’s mayor from 1933 to 1940 and was credited with leading Clayton out of the Great Depression.

As a club member of 41 years, Suzanne

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DeCosted Breckenridge is acknowledged as the group’s matriarch.

“The Clayton Garden Club remains as vital today as it was in the late 1930s when it was founded by embodying the club’s original goals in our study, personal actions and community service,” says Diane.

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ROAD TRIP

ARTICLE LINDA JARRETT PHOTOGRAPHY MEG FREDRICK

GET AWAY FROM IT ALL AT ECHO BLUFFS STATE PARK FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE

22

Clayton Lifestyle | April 2021

Missouri's Best Kept Secret

Echo Bluff Lodge

“I f you’re a n outdoor enthusiast, th is is def i n itely the place to be.”

AS A FORESTED HIDEAWAY, NESTLED IN A VALLEY SUR-

Steps away from the lodge is Sinking Creek, which is a stream

ROUNDED BY TOWERING BLUFFS, UNSPOILED WOODS

perfect for wading and relaxing, but deep enough in spots for

AND THE POPULAR SINKING CREEK, ECHO BLUFFS STATE

swimming and snorkeling. Float trips are available from nearby

PARK LOCATED NEAR EMINENCE, MO., COULD BE CON-

outfitters, and guests can experience Sinking Creek and the

SIDERED THE BEST-KEPT SECRET IN THE OZARKS.

Current River by canoe, kayak, paddleboard or tubes.

Missouri State Parks officials bought the property in 2013,

A herd of wild horses roams the lands surrounding the Current

and under the direction of Gov. Jay Nixon, Echo Bluffs State

and Jack’s Fork Rivers, and lucky visitors get chances to see them.

Park was born. The 330-acre park has more than four miles

“We’re out in the middle of nowhere, and if you want a nice

of hiking and mountain biking trails. The Current River Trail

facility with the amenities of the city, this is the place to come

adds another eight miles, with the adjacent 64,000-acre Roger

and unwind,” says Stefan Mendes, general manager for Guest

Pryor Pioneer Backcountry offering 30 more.

Services, Inc., who manages the park.

The Betty Lea Lodge, named after Gov. Nixon’s mother, fea-

“If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, this is definitely the place to

tures 16 guest rooms and four suites. The Creekside Grill offers

be,” adds Jo Small, sales manager who handles weddings, family

American cuisine, and is the perfect place for relaxing with a glass

reunions and corporate events.

of local wine or an artisan beer after a day of outdoor activities.

The Timbuktu Campground has 60 full-service sites for recreational vehicles and 22 walk-ins for tent campers.

For Echo Bluffs information, call 855.999.6980 or visit EchoBluffStatePark.com.

CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

23

HOT SPOT

RESTAURATEURS PIETOSO'S TRIO

NEW NAPOLI III ITALIAN RESTAURANT OPENS IN ST. CHARLES COUNTY

A NEWLY OPENED SISTER RESTAURANT OF FAMED CAFÉ NAPOLI IN CLAYTON AND NAPOLI 2 IN TOWN AND COUNTRY GAVE THE PIETOSO FAMILY THEIR VERY OWN ‘BIG THREE.’ Napoli III at 1450 Beale in the Streets of St. Charles development now serves Southern Italian fare from both dried and house-made la pästə.

Kye Pietoso summarizes the new menu as “fresh seafood, prime steaks, handmade

pasta

and

everyone’s

favorite traditional dishes.” Appetizers include arancini, eggplant parmesan, calamari,

beef

carpaccio,

toasted

ravioli, as well as veal and beef meatballs. Five salads are available, featuring one with fried eggplant, fresh mozzarella and balsamic glaze. Chicken and veal dishes are served three ways and in two portion sizes, he adds.

Salmon, scallops, sea bass and shrimp-lobster scampi lead the seafood offerings. Three steak options include special sauces’ options.

24

Clayton Lifestyle | April 2021

ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF NAPOLI III & GORDON MONTGOMERY

AMBIANCE Gold spirals, pendant globes, black

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restaurant is at the corner of Beale and Lombard streets on land that formerly

anchored the

beloved

Noah's Ark restaurant for St. Louis's own clam chowder. Napoli III occupies 4,500 square feet and seats 130 inside; a four-seasons room seating 25, plus two glass walls in private rooms (that can be combined) seating 25 each. An outside sidewalk patio adds another 18 seats.

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26

PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOS BY M & P LANDSCAPING

ARTICLE JUDY PETERS

YOUR GARDEN CAN NOT ONLY BE BEAUTIFUL BUT CAN MAKE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON OUR PLANET

LOCALLY OWNED

How Does Your Garden Grow?

Clayton Lifestyle | April 2021

“IT’S VITAL FOR THE SUCCESS OF THE LANDSCAPING FOR THE DESIGN TO FIT THE LIFESTYLE OF THE HOMEOWNER.” M&P LANDSCAPING HAS PROVIDED THE ST. LOUIS AREA

a cutting garden or an herb garden in the same vicinity where chil-

WITH HIGH QUALITY, RELIABLE LANDSCAPING SINCE 1995.

dren or pets will be playing. So, asking the right questions before a

Founder Brad Meyer and his team of 30 arborists, horticulturists,

design even starts is key,” she says. “Next, you really need to observe

landscape designers, crew and staff can help with any kind of com-

the conditions of the property. Is it wet? Which direction is it orien-

mercial or residential landscaping project.

tated? Is it shady or sunny? What is the soil like? These are just a few

Teresa Hessel, M&P project manager, says the first question they ask clients is about how they live in their space.

questions of the many that need to be answered before designing.”

M&P’s next step is to determine plant choice--again, taking into

“It’s vital for the success of the landscaping for the design to fit the

consideration the site conditions and the way the homeowners will

lifestyle of the homeowner. For example, you might not want to plant

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

27

LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

“MORE AND MORE, PEOPLE ARE REQUESTING VEGETABLE GARDENS, FRUIT TREES AND OTHER EDIBLE PLANTS BE PART OF THEIR LANDSCAPE.”

28

Clayton Lifestyle | April 2021

BL E G A R D

TIPS FO

NA

R

T H Y, S U S T AI

H

L EA

use their space. “I like to have

to mix edible plants into the

N:

interest year-round. I also like

E

a mix of plants that will add

regular landscaping. Things like oregano make a great groundcover, as does thyme. Chives make a great accent plant as well...just to name a few. More and more, people are requesting vegetable gardens, fruit trees and other edible plants be part of their landscape. It’s great fun

MULCHING: creates low-maintenance, healthy gardens; prevents soil drying out, suppresses weeds, moderates soil temperature, adds nutrients, prevents erosion.

to help plan as each family has different tastes in the foods they wish to grow,” says Teresa.

Food produced in a sustainable garden is rich in both nutrients and taste. And, sustainable gardening aims at gardening in an eco-friendly way. It’s about giving back to Mother Nature by using organic growing methods that use less chemicals and “greener” alternatives when gardening, reducing its impact on the environment.

M&P landscapers say they try to incorporate as many water conservation and soil preparation practices as possible into garden designs. One way to do that is with the use of plants that are

WATERING: slowly soak root area with hose at least 3 times/ week (trees 15 minutes, shrubs 5 minutes); move mulch away from plants to check soil moisture and adjust watering accordingly.

native to the region. It’s easier to grow and sustain these plants because they’re already suited to the local rainfall, soil and climate. Industry experts confirm native plants require less effort and less water to maintain and grow. Also, growing native plants aid in the preservation of regional birds and insects by providing food and shelter for them.

Instead of using chemical herbicides, one can use organic methods to control weeds and pests.

Many believe that certain beneficial insects are nature’s perfect way of controlling pests without using harmful chemicals. These insects eat caterpillars, mites, aphids and other bugs that con-

PLANTING TREES: helps store carbon from the atmosphere into the soil; also helps cool home down in the summer.

sume plants, and they’re harmless to pets and people. Ladybugs, for example, are not only cute and considered to be good luck, but they also love eating aphids.

M&P Landscaping can advise on all of these, and more, sustainable gardening techniques, so gardens can be beautiful while also conserving resources and actually making positive impacts on our planet.

CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

29

TREND SETTER

COMPANY'S GEAR STANDS FOR NOBLE 'SAVING THE EARTH' CAUSE

Eco-Friendly Yoga Activewear

AS THE ANNUAL EARTH DAY IS CELEBRATED ON

FASHION FOOTPRINTS.

Holly Cannon, YV Yoga Democracy Active Wear partner, says the company’s team takes every scrap of

Fabric made from melted recycled plastic chips gave

material that passes through their shop and turns it into

a curious, nature-loving couple in Arizona a new manu-

something of use and beauty. “And we’re proud to be a

facturing option. With fiber made from post-consumer

USA Made product.”

recycled plastic bottles and fishing nets, in 2015 this duo

Supporting and empowering women also is an inte-

created high quality, sustainable garments that support

gral part of the foundation of this sustainable, active

people, the planet and all aspects of the yoga lifestyle.

wear alternative company.

“At Yoga Democracy, yoga isn’t simply physical

“We aim to produce 95% of our products using

movement. Yoga is meditation and mental health. Yoga

recycled fibers and a low water impact in our produc-

is flowing through life. Yoga is holding space, for oth-

tion and supply chain. We are almost 100% vertically

ers and ourselves. Yoga is harmony between the outer

integrated from design to dyeing to sewing to order

world, and the inner world. At the end of the day, we cre-

fulfillment; all carried out under one roof,” says Haley.

ate clothing to support every aspect of yoga, and those

“Our tight supply chain allows us to keep waste to a

that practice it,” says co-founder Travis Strote.

minimum while connecting makers directly to the cus-

“We’re made for free range humans,” he adds.

tomers who wear the products.”

Yoga Democracy’s co-founder, lead seamstress and

Each limited-edition YD line features original art-

creative captain Haley Byfield personally begins the

work that showcases unique meanings, symbolism

sewing process on every single product they produce,

and expression. This environmentally conscious and

which include leggings, shorts, sports bras, T-shirts and

fashion-forward team shares that they enjoy focusing

crop tops. A new “solids” line was just introduced.

on clothes that boost people’s confidence while the

YD clothes are made from 79% Recycled Plastic

product line helps clean the world’s oceans.

(P.E.T.) and 21% Spandex. “As part of our eco-friendly processing, we don’t do any kind of pre-washing or sil-

info@yogademocracy.com YogaDemocracy.com

icone washing. This saves water and eliminates chemi-

Retail location: 7146 E. 5th Ave.,

cal runoff,” explains Haley.

Scottsdale, Arizona 85251 // 520.350.6070

30

Clayton Lifestyle | April 2021

ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON

ASTS HAVE A CREATIVE WAY TO REDUCE THEIR

PHOTOGRAPHY JEFF BROCKMEYER

APRIL 22, COMFORTABLE CLOTHES ENTHUSI-

CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

31

APRIL

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

9

21

25

DANCE OUT ST. LOUIS

BOOKING FOR BOOKWORMS

MLB PITCH, HIT & RUN

This competition event was sched-

Calling all bookworms! Registration

Brentwood Parks and Recreation

uled by DanceComp Genie Studio

is required with Brentwood Parks

and Clayton Parks and Recreation

Center. For details, call 816.415.8488

and

at

partnered to offer the Scott's Major

or

email info@thedanceout.com.

314.963.8689 for Zoom link. This

League Baseball Pitch, Hit & Run

Age divisions range from those less

month's featured book is Talking to

competition. This national initiative

than 6 years old through seniors and

Strangers. Malcolm Gladwell, host

gives boys and girls, ages 7-14, the

adults who are 19 years-plus. Dance

of the podcast Revisionist History

chance to showcase their pitch-

teachers and professionals, aged

and author of the No.1 New York

ing, hitting and running abilities.

20 and older, can be scored and

Times bestseller Outliers, offers a

Pre-registration is required. Email

critiqued, but aren't eligible for high

powerful examination of interac-

RKrzyszkowski@brentwoodmo.org

point and cash awards.

tions with strangers, and why they

or call 314.963.8689.

Wydown Middle School

Via Zoom

Recreation

Department

Shaw Park Field #5-Clayton

often go wrong.

13 PAUL ZARKY SOCCER PROGRAM Brentwood Park Field 4

The Paul Zarky soccer program teaches

soccer

fundamentals

28

22

JFED STL MAJOR GIFTS EVENT

EARTH DAY AT THE PARK

Jewish Federation Of St. Louis

This event was slated to end at 8:30

Brentwood Community Center

Unplug

electronic

screens

and

through game play and small side

get outside to enjoy Earth Day.

games. It allows individual soccer

Celebrate all that Mother Nature

players to develop at his or her own

has to offer. This event includes

pace. This six-week program is under

crafts and a Nature Scavenger Hunt.

the direction of Paul Zarky, former

Parent participation is required.

professional soccer player and col-

The celebration concludes at 7

legiate all- American. Resident rate:

p.m. Resident participation rate: $4

$50 each; non-resident rate: $58

each; non-resident: $7 each. Email

each. Phone 314.963.8689.

zfiebig@brentwoodmo.org,.

p.m. Organizer is Amy Bornstein; email abornstein@jfedstl.org.

29 VIRTUAL COFFEE WITH THE MAYOR Online

Brentwood Mayor David Dimmitt will host a virtual, hourlong meeting for

14

22

those wishing to discuss a variety of

LITTLE CHEFS

SHOW ME YOUR ROOTS

A yummy good time: Let little chefs

Missouri turns the big 200 in 2021.

30

learn how to make a chicken parme-

What better way to commemorate our

san meal for the entire family. Come

deep roots in the Show Me State than

back at 6:45 p.m. to enjoy the deli-

a native tree planting in Shaw Park on

Arbor Day is an annual observance

cious dish that participating children

Earth Day? Check with Clayton city

that celebrates the role of trees in

create. Price is for a family of four, but

staffers for specific details closer to

our lives and promotes tree plant-

additional plates can be purchased

the date by dialing 314.727.8100.

ing and care. Join city staff for a

Brentwood Community Center

Shaw Park

city-related issues or questions.

ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION Memorial Park

for $5. Resident rate: $25 each;

brief proclamation, then plant a tree

non-resident rate: $28 each. Contact:

together; lunch will be provided. This

314.963.8689.

free Brentwood event ends at noon.

Contact 314.963.8689.

32

Clayton Lifestyle | April 2021

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33

PAGE TURNERS THE GLASS HOTEL

Victoria's Book 01 Club

The Glass Hotel, by Emily St. John Mandel, is the fifth

novel by the Canadian writer, who takes readers on a journey of two separate events that expose the collapse of an international Ponzi scheme and follow the mysterious disappearance of a woman from a ship at sea. Emily’s last

MISSED A NEW BOOK IN HARDCOVER? CHECK OUT THESE TOP BOOKS NOW AVAILABLE IN PAPERBACK AND ECOFRIENDLY DIGITAL RELEASE

book, Station Eleven (2014), now is broadly acknowledged as an eerie oracle of the coronavirus crisis, where the writer prophetically imagined a world ravaged by a hyper-lethal form of swine flu. A handful of quietly placed clues suggest that The Glass Hotel exists in the same universe as Station Eleven, in a time before the outbreak.

ARTICLE VICTORIA BABU

ALTHOUGH I’M PARTIAL TO HARDCOVER BOOKS, ESPECIALLY WHEN I ADD THEM TO

THE

SHELVES

OF MY

02

THE GIRL WITH THE LOUDING VOICE

PERSONAL

LIBRARY, PAPERBACK AND DIGITAL VERSIONS HAVE THEIR PLACE, TOO. They’re easier to carry and lighter on the pocketbook. Here are two best-selling books now out in paperback, audio or digital.

The Girl With The Louding Voice, by Abi Daré, is the fictional story of a Nigerian teen girl named Adunni, who grows up in a rural village and dreams of getting an education so she can find her “louding voice” and speak up for herself. The novel opens on the morning her father informs 1. Author Emily St. John Mandel's latest book is now in paperback and digital release 2. Abi Daré’s debut novel is a story about heartbreak and perseverance

her that to support the family, she’s to become the local taxi driver’s third wife. The feisty, smart-talking Adunni’s resulting determination to stay in school and become a teacher sets her on a collision course with the rest of her village, where girls’ lives are defined by marriage.

34

Clayton Lifestyle | April 2021

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