Clayton, MO June 2023

Men Who Inspire Us

ARTS + CULTURE JOYFUL, HEALING ART

AUTO + MARINE DRIVING AT A NEW PACE

TRAVEL GUYS’ GETAWAYS

JUNE 2023

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Men Who Inspire Us

This June we celebrate the men who inspire us. These are the men who live their lives to the fullest, take risks, and change the world around them. They are the brothers, fathers, grandfathers, and best friends who have impacted our lives in countless ways.

As we reflect on the men who have made a difference in our lives, we are reminded of the many ways they've shaped and influenced us. From their acts of kindness and compassion to their bold and courageous actions, these men have shown us what it means to live a life of purpose and meaning.

There are men who have overcome great challenges, taken bold risks, and changed the world around them. Isn't it inspiring to meet men who have dedicated their lives to making a difference, who have inspired others to greatness, and who have left a lasting legacy for future generations.

We hope these stories will help us to celebrate the men in your life who have made a difference. Whether it is your father, your grandfather, your brother, or your best friend, take a moment to thank them for all they have done. Let them know how much you appreciate them and how much they have impacted your life.

Thank you for joining us in celebrating the men in our city. We hope their stories will inspire you to live your life to the fullest and to make a difference in the world around you.

Happy Father's Day.

GORDON AND KELLEY, PUBLISHERS @CLAYTONCITYLIFESTYLEMAG

June 2023

PUBLISHERS

Gordon Montgomery gordon.montgomery@citylifestyle.com

Kelley Lamm kelley.lamm@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Casey Pierce | casey.pierce@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Julie Brown Patton, Kara Savio, Mel Boban, Robin Seaton Jefferson, Anthony Adams

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Karl Lund, Steven Walden

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

city scene

1: The title of Mark Travers’ art show is A New Land; they’re abstract contemporary landscapes. 2: Mark Travers artwork is at the Houska Gallery in the Central West End. 3: Houska Gallery was site of discussion panel on ‘The Value of Art in Interior Design.’ 4: Mark Travers’ exhibit also includes his carved, painted wood sculptures paying tribute to ancient artists. 5: Special Hot List guests toast to In Your City Show 1st taping at Outreach Studios. 6: Brandon Williams, VP of Team Operations XFL Battlehawks is guest on In Your City Show 7: Master of Ceremony Rene Knott at Clayton 70th Chamber of Commerce Awards Celebration at Ritz-Carlton.

CASEY PIERCE

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

CASEY PIERCE

GORDON MONTGOMERY

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @ClaytonCityLifestyleMag

8: Joan Lunden, Laura Hettiger, Margie Price, Kelley Lamm, Sheryl Weber and Esther, The Women’s Event. 9: Kelley Lamm enjoyed meeting keynote speaker award-winning journalist, Joan Lunden at The Women’s Event. 10: Mayor Michell Harris and City of Clayton Table at Clayton Chamber of Commerce 70th Anniversary-Celebration. 11: Clayton 70th Chamber of Commerce Awards Dinner. Business Person of the Year, Emily Cantwell. 12: Herbies restaurant proudly accepts Excellence in Retail/Service Awards at Clayton 70th Chamber of Commerce Celebration. 13: Perimeter Solutions proudly accepts Innovator Award at Clayton 70th Chamber of Commerce Celebration. 14: Honorary Chair Sheryl Weber and her mom, Esther, enjoying The Women’s Event at Ritz Carlton.

GORDON MONTGOMERY

GORDON MONTGOMERY

GORDON MONTGOMERY

GORDON MONTGOMERY

Chamber Project STL Offers St. Louis-Inspired Musical Excellence

In collaboration with the Saint Louis Art Museum and St. Louis County Library, the American Women in the Arts Festival offers an event celebrating the creativity of American women. Chamber Project St. Louis members bring their 15th season to a close with a festival celebrating collaboration, innovation and lifting up women in the arts. The ticketed concert is slated for June 2 at the Saint Louis Art Museum starting at 7 p.m.

Photography Courtesy of Chamber Project of St. Louis

Arty Johnson Named St. John's Vianney High School Defensive Coordinator

Arty Johnson has had a chance to work with some amazing young men over the years as a coach and says he is enthused to take on his new role at St. John's Vianney High School as the 2023 defensive coordinator. "It's time to take the golden standard to a new level, and I accept the challenge," he states.

Tree Removal Regulations Updated For Ladue Residents

Ladue City’s Beautification, Open Space and Tree Advisory Committee (BOSTA), along with city staffers, have worked on modifications to tree removal regulations since fall 2022. A tree removal permit is needed for any proposed tree removal, with the exception of removing a dead or dying tree. When tree replacement is required, 50% of the trees must be Missouri native trees. Subdivision trustee notification is now required for all tree removal permits.

CONTINUED >

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Le Meridien St. Louis

Clayton Offers New Summer Pool Pass

Andrew Hargis, Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton's general manager at 7730 Bonhomme Ave., says they are offering a new Summer Pool Pass that gives guests an exclusive opportunity to enjoy the summer with stunning views from the hotel's rooftop pool, as well as to access the hotel’s fitness center. The pass is good through Sept. 30, 2023, with food and beverage service beginning in June. The 268-room hotel is located in downtown Clayton.

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Photography Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton

Original, yet timeless. Edgy, yet sophisticated. Modern, yet classic.

LIVING LIFE ADVENTUROUSLY

Local Book Author Describes How To Adjust To Change And Overcome Challenges

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

Town and Country-based life coach and book author Andy Way, founder of Always Adventure training company, asserts he's on a mission to use his experiences to help others overcome challenges. "It's real. It's honest. It's entertaining," he says of his same-titled  Always Adventure book, available on Amazon this past December and Hearth & Soul Ladue-based store.

The book outlines five powerful practices for living happier, fulfilling lives. In essence, Andy draws a map that he calls the Living Adventurously Method.

"I struggled for years as a single-parent and as a father committed to doing all I could for my son," he states. "Navigating work and family can be completely distracting, and can take you

away from the person you know yourself to truly be. We all know it's important to take care of ourselves physically, mentally and emotionally, and there's an entire world full of wisdom and inspiring ideas. But I didn't turn things around personally until I began living from the inside out versus the outside in."

No one has to live an "accidental life," asserts Andy. Instead, this self-proclaimed adventure-man student champions the practice of getting uncomfortable to move the needle in personal or professional development.

Everything people want and need is already inside of them, suggests Andy. "Having the right tools matter, and I have powerful tools you can use to take control of your life starting where you are. These tools are rooted in neuroscience, and I have put them to work myself to cause a transformation in my own life. Life may not always turn out the way we thought, but it can also turn out even better than we ever imagined, if we let it."

He says his overall goal is to give power and purpose to the pain of his past and help others reconnect with themselves and

live happier, more fulfilling lives through the mindset and methodology he shares and encourages. "It's all about finding ways to live with more peace, confidence, trust and connection."

Always Adventure became an Amazon best-seller in several new release categories, including teen health, family activities, child discipline, adventure travel and business health/stress.

Andy also is a speaker, mentor and former real estate investor who served in the U.S. Navy.

314.619.9938

AlwaysAdventureLife.com

“HAVING THE RIGHT TOOLS MATTER, AND I HAVE POWERFUL TOOLS YOU CAN USE TO TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR LIFE STARTING WHERE YOU ARE. THESE TOOLS ARE ROOTED IN NEUROSCIENCE, AND I HAVE PUT THEM TO WORK MYSELF TO CAUSE A TRANSFORMATION IN MY OWN LIFE. LIFE MAY NOT ALWAYS TURN OUT THE WAY WE THOUGHT, BUT IT CAN ALSO TURN OUT EVEN BETTER THAN WE EVER IMAGINED, IF WE LET IT.” ~ANDY WAY

A P L A C E T O B E S E E N A P L A C E T O B E S E E N

L i v e o n - l o c a t i o n a n d i n - s t u d i o p r o d u c t i o n t o e x p e r i e n c e p e o p l e , p l a c e s , a n d t h i n g s t o e x p l o r e , e n g a g e , a n d e n j o y i n y o u r c i t y .

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A City United Through Sports

ARTICLE BY ROBIN SEATON JEFFERSON

Photo by Karl Lund

St. Louis has, for as long as anyone can remember, been among the nation’s top sports destinations. And while the city’s teams — including baseball, football, hockey, soccer, basketball and corkball (a mini-baseball game that originated in St. Louis) — are known for their championships, many would argue it’s really the fans who make St. Louis sports stand out.

And those fans have had a lot to celebrate in the last few years, not the least of which is the St. Louis Blues Stanley Cup first-ever win in 2019.

Looking back, it seems it was a sign of things to come. St. Louis City SC celebrated its inaugural season in Major League Soccer, and won its first game in Texas during February. The club also made its home debut in March in a new downtown stadium built just for them, CityPark.

St. Louisans also realized that “Kaw is still the law,” and football was still a possibility in their city, when the St. Louis Battlehawks returned earlier this year

to finish the season that had been interrupted three years ago.

In 2018, St. Louis became one of eight American cities chosen to join the newly reformed XFL. Then on March 12, 2020, the XFL announced the remainder of its 2020 season would be canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The same year, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Dany Garcia and Gerry Cardinale, purchased the XFL for $15 million.

The first part of 2023 has been quite a year for soccer and football fans who've been waiting to see their teams play. And for Corey Hollander, the St. Louis SC did not disappoint.

Corey describes the “Supporters’ Section” at CityPark, wherein staunch soccer fans are known to go all out in support of their favorite sport. “It’s a dedicated section to hard-core fans. Everyone is high-fiving. People are playing drums and singing. They’re wearing flags. It’s a real sense of community. These people live and breath

soccer. That’s what is so cool about soccer, and you can really see it in St. Louis.”

For more than 100 years, St. Louis has been a soccer leader in the Midwest. The St. Louis Soccer League, created in 1907, was one of the first leagues in the nation.

Owned by the Taylor (Enterprise Holdings) and Kavanaugh (World Wide Technology) families, St. Louis City SC is led by Carolyn Kindle, making it the first majority female-owned club in MLS history and one of the few in professional sports globally.

St. Louis SC Chief Experience Officer Matt Sebek says the club has worked hard to maintain consistency and excellence in engaging fans online and in the stadium. Matt oversees the food, music and entertainment for the club. “It’s the entire fan journey from start to finish,” he adds. And since soccer is played in two 45-minute periods with a mere 15-minute halftime, planning is different than with other sports.

Photo by Karl Lund

Photo by Karl Lund

Photo by Karl Lund

St. Louis City Soccer Fans

Photo by Karl Lund

“IT’S NICE TO SEE PEOPLE WHO BARELY KNOW EACH OTHER COME TOGETHER FOR ANOTHER ST. LOUIS SPORTS TEAM.”

~KIM HANNEGAN

“Sports fans today, especially younger ones, are more fluid in how they engage with their experiences and with their favorite brands,” Matt says. “Soccer is full of energy and excitement. We have to think differently about our operations. We're driven to showcase all of the amazing things going on in the region.”

The club has enlisted 25 locally owned restaurants as well as local musicians to serve fans.

Corey says he can see the club’s efforts. “The best thing about it is the connection with the fans and the club. St. Louisans always say that we are a big city with a small-town feel. Those are the perfect ingredients for a recipe of strong support of sports.”

And by all accounts, St. Louis Battlehawks fans feel the same.

“The first time I walked into the stadium, the energy was contagious,” says Kim Hannegan, of St. Charles. “The enthusiasm of the crowd was amazing. St. Louis is all in as Battlehawks fans. Even before the game, the parking lots are full of people tailgating and pregaming. Everyone is having fun together. It’s nice to see so many people who barely know each other come together for another St. Louis sports team.”

Kim says she and her husband recently took their 5-year-old grandson to his first Battlehawks game. “He had a blast and was shouting STL, Third Down and Kaw Kaw in no time.”

Terry Lyon, of Foristell, says the way fans wholeheartedly embraced the Battlehawks speaks to the commitment of sports fans in St. Louis.

“The fans in this city have always been supportive of its NFL teams, even though past owners didn't have the same commitment to the city,” Terry says. “I think having professional games to attend during the NFL offseason is a great thing for football fans. The atmosphere at Battlehawks games is electric. Attendances also have been the highest in the XFL by far. Fans at the games and on social media are very much into supporting the Battlehawks. It shows St. Louis deserves to have another NFL team. It's also very cool that the XFL provides a path for players wanting to get back into the NFL and giving an opportunity for career backup players like A.J. McCarron to show that they deserve a shot at being a starter in the league.”

Battlehawks Quarterback A.J. McCarron has made quite an impression on fans locally and all over the country, and not just with his football skills. The former Alabama quarterback took a pay cut, from $4 million to $60,000, so his sons could watch him play in the XFL instead of sitting on a bench in the NFL.

“It’s been fun for sure,” A.J. says. “It's awesome to see my kids see me play. It’s been a pleasure to represent the city of St. Louis and Battlehawk Nation. It’s been a blessing, more than I could have imagined.”

Located

ADVICE EDITORIAL: FOUR GREAT PLACES FOR GROOVES, GRUB AND GAWKING WITH BEST BROS

GUYS’ GETAWAYS

to get moving, the strenuous hike up Camelback Mountain in nearby Phoenix is a bucket-list item. Need a more moderate trail? Experience the same magic of the majestic saguaro cactus in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

NEW ORLEANS

ARTICLE BY KIM HILL

Has it been too long since your tribe gathered to rib and one-up each other as only guys can do? To help plan a getaway for just the guys, City Lifestyle gathered an eclectic list of locations offering tons of things to see, do and experience. Here’s hoping the only ribs one will get on this guys’ getaway are the kind to hold in hands while barbecue sauce drips onto shirts.

SCOTTSDALE/PHOENIX

There’s no other tournament on the PGA Tour like the Waste Management Phoenix Open and no hole like the legendary 16th, where 20,000 boisterous fans boo the tee shots that miss the green. The other 51 weeks of the year, golfers can play TPC Scottsdale or try one of more than 200 courses in the Scottsdale area, a top golf destination. Another winter event is the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction. Even if one's only collector car was a Hot Wheels, it’s a blast to peruse the acres of autos for sale before heading inside to watch the unique or renowned cars crossing the auction block. When it’s time

It’s always a party in New Orleans (NOLA), especially when it comes to festivals, many of them centered around music. Folk to funk, gospel to jazz, zydeco, blues, African and other musical styles are celebrated on the Jazz and Heritage Festival’s 12 stages. If free admission is more desired, don’t miss the French Quarter Festival featuring local musicians and food vendors representing dozens of New Orleans restaurants. Part of the fun of Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo is admiring revelers’ watercraft, some of them homemade just for this festival on the banks of Bayou Saint John. If one of the festivals can't be attended, there’s still plenty of NOLA live music, particularly the jazz clubs on Frenchmen Street. And when a break from crowds is needed, take a guided swamp tour. Kitschy, yes, but it’s a hoot to cruise around on a swamp buggy while looking for alligators.

BOWLING GREEN, KENTUCKY

“America’s Sports Car” is produced at the Bowling Green Assembly Plant, where visitors can join guided tours to observe Corvettes being built and learn the fascinating history of these sexy autos. See examples of all Corvette generations at the National Corvette Museum. And if the need for speed is still felt, a few times a year

The Scottsdale area is home to more than 200 golf courses.

Xtreme Experience offers driving or ride-along events in exotics like Ferraris or Lamborghinis at the National Corvette Museum Motorsports Park. After getting all revved up, cool down at Mammoth Cave National Park, the longest known cave system in the world and a World Heritage Site, where guided tours take participants through tunnels humans have used for thousands of years. And after all this touring, the Bowling Green area is the southernmost point in the Kentucky Bourbon Trail of distilleries.

AUSTIN

Live music rules here, with iconic venues such as Antone’s, The Continental Club, the White Horse and hundreds of other locations, from dive bars to big stages. From rock and blues to country and urban, music is heard every night of the week (and many afternoons as well). When guys are hungry, there are tons of barbeque and Tex-Mex joints. Unique food trucks are truly a thing here, with nearly 2,000 food trailers in town. Burn some calories biking or running the Southern Walnut Creek Trail or one of many paved paths. Get out on the water in a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard on Lake Travis or Lady Bird Lake. Take a dip in the historic Barton Springs Pool, where the underground springs keep the water around 68 degrees all year.

French Quarter Fest

Freshly shucked oysters.

Kayaking on Barton Springs in Austin

LOCAL ARTIST SEES WORLD THROUGH VIVID COLORS, OPEN-HEARTED PERSPECTIVES

JOYFUL, HEALING ARTWORKS

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

'Hero worship' is one way that St. Louis area artist Steven Walden describes his painted pieces, especially those created for sports and pop social categories. Although he didn't start artistic painting until 2014, it's now his fulltime job. "I'm actually an artist by mistake," he quips. "But a happy one."

Steven became an artist in a roundabout way after exiting his job as a Maritz copywriter in 2012 to enter graduate school to become a therapist. But it was when he took an art therapy class in 2014 within the advanced degree program that he discovered his real passion for creating colorful, stylistic abstracts with his hands as an excellent way to bridle and occupy his effervescent energy.

"When you see my work, know that it's the product of all of these: failure, reinvention, rejection, stubbornness, hope, resilience, dynamics, gratitude and lots and lots of trying to figure it out," he adds, noting that his appreciation for connecting with others through the conceptual ideas of and emotional power of art is truly satisfying.

He completed his master's degree in 2015 from Webster University's professional counseling program, but recalls that brushstrokes were beckoning to his underlying sense of trying to be a professional matchmaker among people, just in a different way from what he originally envisioned.

"Art is healing because it can bring happy moments, and get us to listen to each other's experiences while also having the potential to make us think and to see the world from a variety of viewpoints we don't individually have," he summarizes, citing that he likes broadening his own horizon based on growing up in a smaller town of 9,000 in Hope, Arkansas.

Mainly creating sports and pop culture artwork in his High Ridge studio, Steven remembers getting a big break when developing a painting to donate to Big League Impact, a nonprofit initiative launched by Cardinals pitcher Adam Wainwright. Through unique, sports-related fundraising platforms, Adam and other professional athletes help people meet basic human needs, such as food, clean water,

medical care, shelter and education to save lives, restore dignity and instill hope.

"Adam saw and really liked my painting. I'm proud to now call Adam a good friend, all due to art," he adds.

Steven declares that representational pop art is humankind's pre-Internet way to spontaneously interact with strangers about mass culture, which is partially why he feels so at one with it. "You could talk to, or hang out with, people about comic books, and immediately find common ground with other people who also like The Empire Strikes Back ," he adds.

Steven also helps various organizations raise funds for charitable causes by providing live paintings at events or by donating print packets that include two prints valued at up to $100. He's worked

“THE GOAL OF MY ARTWORK IS TO LEAVE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE; IF IT CAN ALLEVIATE ANYONE’S SUFFERING OR MAKE SOMEONE HAPPY, THAT’S GOOD ENOUGH FOR ME.” ~STEVEN WALDEN

with nonprofit representatives who support military veterans; people transitioning from being incarcerated; documentaries regarding mental health; homeless, runaway or at-risk youths; people without homes; and those facing life-threatening health or medical challenges.

"I simply want to support our local community. At charitable events, I create embellished canvas prints, painting one-of-a-kind pieces to be auctioned," he says.

While he confirms he enjoys painting pets and select St. Louis landmarks, particularly his favored The Fabulous Fox, he prefers to paint the essence of people. He's already working on new ideas to portray elements of the St. Louis City SC and The St. Louis Battlehawks.

Steven says he aspires to expand regionally, nationally and globally, with art signaling his legacy. He is available for commissioned work, and says he's currently working on a series of original canvas pieces to pitch to a well-known St. Louis steakhouse.

What's next for this self-aware artist? "I'll go where my energy takes me!"

StevenWalden.com

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“Definitely

Guilt-Free Taco Night

Favorite Ways To Keep Taco Night Healthy

There are so many options when it comes to dishing up a family fave, but in a lot of cases, taco night is a splurge. Here are tried and true go-tos for cleaning up taco night.

MAKE IT A SALAD

If preparing tacos for a large group, a salad or bowl approach is easy. Line the bottom layer of a low bowl with a crispy lettuce mix and add toppings from there. If missing the chips, simply crush a few over the top. If the meal feels too light, avocados are a great way to add protein.

ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

GO FOR SHRIMP

Chicken and beef are usually top choices for taco night protein, but shrimp is a yummy alternative. Especially in the summer, grilled shrimp with a drizzle of lime juice hits the spot.

SLOW-COOK THE MEAT

The crock pot is your friend. It not only makes taco night way quicker, but it’s easy to use adobo peppers, salsa verde, onions, garlic and more to enhance the flavor without adding salt.

LETTUCE SHELLS

Ditch tortillas and use a head of iceberg lettuce to create shells. The element of crunch still remains, but the carbs are drastically decreased.

SWAP OUT THE RICE

Mexican rice is a taco night essential but there are alternatives. A pepper and onion medley is a healthy idea, or, simply prepare rice as usual but substitute cauliflower.

DRIVING AT A NEW PACE

He’s a man of many talents, and whether he’s driving a race car at 200 miles an hour, flying high over St. Louis in his two-pilot turbojet, or dealing with a $10 million insurance claim, Robby McGehee is doing it with zest.

As a young boy growing up in Ladue, he says he was already a daredevil at heart.

“We used to watch the Indy 500 on the Sunday before Memorial Day every single year like it was a holiday. We’d wake up early to listen to the races,” he says, “So when I was eight years old I wrote that when I grew up, I wanted to be an Indianapolis racer, I wanted to be AJ Foyt.”

He never made it to the actual races but got to see the qualifications. At 13, he was driving his mom’s Porsche back and forth in the driveway, and by age 16, he was driving his own 300 ZX and attending Skip Barber Racing School.

The young daredevil also had aspirations for another daring career. He grew up in the Top Gun era and visited Annapolis Air Force Academy hoping to become a fighter pilot.

Robby explains, “My eyes weren't good enough, so I raced cars on the ground going faster. And then when I retired from racing, I started flying.”

In 1999, Robby took fifth place at the Indy 500 and was named Rookie of the Year. But his racing career wasn’t without sorrow. He saw a good friend severely injured and lost close friends in racing accidents. He, himself was seriously injured.

“I broke my leg twice in one year, and right when it was healed is when I hit a SAFER barrier and re-broke it at the exact same place,” Robby says.

He met his wife, Norma, on a blind date. They married in 2005 and welcomed three beautiful triplets in 2009.

“Parenthood definitely changes your perspective on life,” he says beaming, “I mean, everything's about them as it should be, and I love it.”

Robby hung up his racing helmet in 2004.

ARTICLE BY KARA SAVIO

“Part of the reason I retired was that it wasn’t worth dying for anymore, as it had been at one point in my life,” he reflects.

After retirement, he began working for his dad’s insurance brokerage company in risk management.

RISK TAKING TO RISK MANAGEMENT: ROBBY MCGEHEE HAS COME FULL CIRCLE

“I AM TRULY BLESSED FOR MANY REASONS. I’VE MADE GREAT FRIENDS, GOT TO LIVE OUT MY DREAM,” HE SAYS SMILING, “AND I’VE GOT AN AWESOME CAREER, AN AMAZING FAMILY AND I WOULDN’T HAVE DONE IT ANY OTHER WAY.”

“Everyone jokes…Robby likes to go fast. He's used to racing cars and flying jets. The difference is when you're racing a car, you push it beyond the limit to be the fastest,” he explains, “When you're flying an airplane, you're just going on checklists, you're operating a piece of machinery, and then the far end of that is when you're in risk management, you avoid risk.”

These days, life is very different for the one-time Indy 500 Rookie of the Year. The McGehees are the homeowners of a gorgeous 106-year-old historic home on the National Historic Registry in Clayton.

“It's just a great estate lot right in the middle of some real estate,” he says with excitement, “We've got a pond, a pool, a basketball court, we’ve got everything, it's awesome.”

Robby trains every day, works with his Ten8Project, takes care of prized pets Winnie and Chunk, and spends the rest of his days at baseball and hockey games for his 14-year-triplets, Robby Jr., Harry and Cammie.

“I am truly blessed for many reasons. I've made great friends, got to live out my dream,” he says smiling, “And I’ve got an awesome career, an amazing family and I wouldn't have done it any other way.”

ROBBY AND WIFE NORMA MCGEHEE

This property is located in a quiet, rural area close to schools, shopping, church and restaurants, but far enough away to enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside.

PEACEFUL PROPERTY FOR SALE

72 TREE-LINED ACRES AWAITS FOR NEW OWNERS

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARL LUND

Imagine having a private hilltop from which to fully embrace sunrises and sunsets. Or to gaze at one's very own rolling, Missouri foothills inside of 72.26 tree-lined acres. The concept of 'new day, new possibilities' takes on a whole new meaning at 3958 Highway NN in the Cedar Hill/Pacific area.

This inspiring property for sale is an easy half-hour drive from St. Louis on Interstate 44, or through scenic West St. Louis County roadways. Additionally, the communities comprising the Missouri Rhineland are 20 miles northwest of the area. Altogether, this acreage presents an outdoor haven, and a great place to relax from the grind of life's everyday hustle and bustle.

Its one-and-a-half story, all-brick upgraded house is move-in ready, and is powered by solar panels, making it an energy-efficient home. In fact, the solar panels were installed in 2014 and a new roof was installed in 2018. The house spans 1,292 square feet, and includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms. A new and upgraded electrical panel was installed during June 2020. Wood and ceramic tile floors are throughout the house. A large back patio makes a wonderful entertaining area. This 1983-constructed home comes with a home warranty.

This property has multiple entry points, and possibly could be farmed or developed into a new home complex, horse ranch, winery or destination venue. The pasture area was once used to raise cattle. The fields include two ponds and an extremely roomy pole barn, which can protect equipment, boats, gear, recreational devices, a hobby station or extra overall storage. The space also could be perfect for hiking, fishing, horseback riding, or a safe place for other livestock.

Joining the region means getting the chance to partake of a nearby, proud heritage, which started in 1820. The city of Pacific is a quaint, historic region that formerly was the town of Franklin, and the city proper is located in both Franklin and St. Louis Counties. In 1859, Franklin was incorporated as a city, and in honor of the railroad, changed its name to Pacific. Pacific, and its surrounding communities, are served by the Meramec Valley R-III school system and the St. Louis Community College district. Many residents attend nearby East Central College. St. Bridget of Kildare School is the only parochial school in Pacific (PreK8th grade). Pacific has a public library, a branch of the Scenic Regional Library system.

For a personal tour of this property with a listing price of $1.5 million, contact the Montgomery Team at Compass Realty Group St. Louis at 636.487.9044 or email gordon.montgomery@compass.com.

Nominate Everyday Heroes

'IN YOUR CITY HERO Project’ representatives from the IN YOUR CITY Show are launching a community-driven initiative to recognize and celebrate local, unsung heroes positively impacting other’s lives. The project’s goal is to encourage people to nominate individuals who've gone above and beyond to help others so stories of selfless acts can be showcased.

IN YOUR CITY  is a show about people, places and things to explore, engage and enjoy. It's produced by Gordon Montgomery and Kelley Lamm Montgomery, also City Lifestyle publishers.

“We want to recognize everyday heroes who're making a difference, but may not

be getting the recognition they deserve,” says Kelley, IN YOUR CITY HERO Project organizer. “By celebrating unsung heroes, we can inspire others to follow their example and create a ripple effect of community kindness and positivity.”

A hero, chosen monthly, will be featured on the project's website, social media and news outlets. Designees receive a hero’s gift package, filled with items celebrating local communities. Submit nominees through the project's website or social media pages: 636.219.7931

InYourCityShow.com Facebook.com/InYourCityShow

NEW ‘IN YOUR CITY HERO PROJECT’ WILL RECOGNIZE UNHERALDED, ALTRUISTIC NEIGHBORS

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

Our Favorite Bourbons

Under $150

ARTICLE BY ANTHONY ADAMS

We were recently asked to suggest the Best Bourbon under $150 and as I reflected on my list of favorites, providing a single answer wasn’t as straightforward as it appeared.

Think of it like this. If we asked 100 people in our community what their favorite restaurant is—the answers would be varied based on the individual’s personal palate or even the moment you asked them in!

Here is our list of favorites that will have you covered at any price point and occasion.

BLANTON’S SINGLE BARREL BOURBON

Blanton’s is recognizable on sight due to the round bottle with a brass horse and jockey for a stopper. Taken from the center-cut or middle sections of the famous Warehouse H. The taste profile is sweet, with notes of citrus and oak. The creamy vanilla nose is teased with caramel and butterscotch, all underscored by familiar baking spices such as clove, nutmeg, or cinnamon.

— BlantonsBourbon.com ($100-$150)

BASIL HAYDEN’S RYE BOURBON –AGED 10 YEARS

In a sea of cask-strength offerings, Basil Hayden’s stays true to its 80 proof roots. The high rye content of its mash bill charges the nose and palate with notes of caraway and spice, while 10 years in the barrel have added leather and an attractive nuttiness. If you aren’t looking for high proof, this is a remarkable bourbon.

— BasilHaydens.com ($75-$100)

PINHOOK ‘BOURBON WAR’ VERTICAL SERIES 5 YEARS

Pinhook pulls 150 barrels from a special lot to create this straight bourbon whiskey with a lively nose of butterscotch,

cinnamon stick, licorice, and vanilla. These aromas set the stage for a robust palate of cherry, chocolate, toasted brown sugar, and chicory. With the additional 5th year of age, what was tropical fruit transitions to darker fruit flavors and what was brighter candy is now rich and caramelized; hints of smoke now start to appear for the first time.

— PinhookBourbon.com ($75-$50)

EAGLE RARE 10 YEAR

Eagle Rare 10 Year lives somewhat in the shadow of its 17-yearold elder sibling, but don’t let that shy you away. This is a sweet and mellow bourbon with definite signs of maturity and its orange peel and toffee aromas are a little shy, but the palate serves sturdy sweet and spice notes and a toasty finish.

— EagleRare.com ($30-$50)

OLD FORESTER 86 PROOF

While others in Old Forester’s impressive lineup claim the hearts of bourbon geeks (such as the 1920 Prohibition Style), this bottle stands head and shoulders above everything at this proof and price point. It oozes aromatic charm and follows with a palate that is lithe but in no way lacking flavor.

— OldForester.com ($20-$30)

MCAFEE’S BENCHMARK OLD NO. 8

Sometimes you find a $20 laying around or just need a good mixing bourbon. Benchmark Old No. 8 is made at the same distillery as Blanton’s and the ever-coveted Pappy Van Winkle! The nose bears caramel notes with a delicate stone-fruit backdrop. A robust and sturdy palate with some fine leather notes mingling with dry tobacco, a touch of oak, and a hint of dried cherries. The finish is smooth and calming.

— BuffaloTraceDistillery.com (Under $20)

MAKE AN IMPACT FOR DAD

What do you buy for the man who has everything? Perhaps an experience oriented around what dads value most – time together – is just what he needs. Fathers and father figures are invaluable in our lives. They help shape and mold us. They’re there for us and support us. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!

Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Dad feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your dad, husband, brother or father figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.

Memorable Ways to Celebrate The Father Figure in Your Life

LEARN ABOUT HIS FAMILY TREE

Family heritage websites can offer insight into dad’s past and be an interesting way to study the history of your family. Present Dad with a report on his ancestors or dig in together!

PLAN A STAYCATION

You don’t need to go very far to have a great time with Dad! Explore a new neck of your own woods with a family staycation. You can go out on the town, stay at a fancy hotel and maybe even enjoy some room service!

GO BIRD WATCHING

Lay out a blanket in your backyard and grab your binoculars for a peaceful, naturefilled day. Make a list of how many different kinds of birds you see and guess if you can identify them.

GO BOWLING

Bowling is a timeless classic Dad is sure to enjoy. Bonus if the bowling alley has an arcade, chicken wings and Dad’s favorite beverage of choice.

PLAY FRISBEE GOLF AS A FAMILY

Find a local frisbee golf course and grab a slot for the family to play. This activity is fun for both young and old and helps you take advantage of being in the beautiful outdoors together.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

JUNE 1ST-4TH

Murder On The Nile Play

By Agatha Christie

WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY

SOUTH CAMPUS THEATRE/ CLAYTON ROAD | 8:00 PM

Clayton Community Theatre cast presents a murder mystery play as directed by Nada Vaughn. Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings are held at 8 p.m. but Sunday afternoon's performance is at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15-$25 each (discounts for season tickets, group sales, senior citizens and students) on Simpletix.com . Financial assistance for this project was provided by the Missouri Arts Council.

JUNE 4TH

Picnic In The Park

SHAW PARK | 4:00 PM

Grab a picnic blanket for under the canopy of Shaw Park. Rock to tunes of a live band, savor tastes from assorted food trucks, let kids bounce around in inflatables, chase bubbles from the Bubble Bus, and just relax. Admission is free with food and beverage available for purchase. The event's sponsor is the Clayton Community Foundation.

JUNE 10TH

Clayton Music & Wine Festival

DOWNTOWN CLAYTON | 5:00 PM

Enjoy wine, music and entertainment until 10 p.m. Admission is free, and wine and food will be available for purchase. Attracting close to 3,000 people annually, this festival

is one of Clayton's most popular events outside of the St. Louis Art Fair. If inclement weather, city staff will assess the situation and make a decision by 4 p.m. that day.

JUNE 16TH

Family Fun Night

SHAW PARK AQUATIC CENTER

| 4:00 PM

Enjoy extra family games and activities on this special night until 10 p.m. Note that this event is for Advantage Status holders, season pass holders and guests of pass holders (with pass holder in attendance) only. To purchase a season pass, visit Claytonmo.gov/SPAC . Phone 314.727.8100 with questions.

JUNE 24TH

Unicorns & Dragons

BRENTWOOD PARK PAVILION |

10:00 AM

Spend the morning until noon with a real unicorn and some not so real dragons. The event will offer unicornand dragon-themed crafts and snacks, a photo opportunity with a unicorn, and a reptile show. Fee per child (ages 5 to 10 years) is $20 each and pre-registration is required. Phone 314.727.8100 with questions.

JUNE 25TH

Musical Nights

OAK KNOLL PARK | 5:00 PM

This free concert features 2 Pedros, who will perform until 7 p.m. Take blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks to enjoy with live music near the pond. Access to parking is off of Big Bend. This event is sponsored by Clayton Community Foundation.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

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