Issuu

SHOPPING

ONE LONGEST-RUNNING TOY STORE

FITNESS

JUICED WHEELS

STYLE + BEAUTY HAIR STYLES FOR HOLIDAYS

Winter Extravaganza Event

Happy Holiday

As the holidays approach and the spirit of the season fills the air, we often find ourselves drawn to the magic that made this time feel so special in our childhood. Our family traditions—the scents, sounds, lights, and activities—often echo memories from those early years when everything felt so full of wonder and joy.

I remember how holiday scenes would come alive: store windows decked out in festive displays, model trains chugging through intricately designed towns, carolers filling the streets with song, and the warm, delicious scent of hot cocoa after a day of sledding with friends. These memories embody the season’s enchantment, and my wish is that both children and adults feel that same joyful magic this year.

In this edition, we’ve focused on capturing that holiday magic right here in our cities. From highlighting local shops to make gift-giving more personal to showcasing festive events and ways to give back, our goal is to help you experience all our communities have to offer this season. We also recognize that, while this time of year is joyful for many, it can be challenging for others, especially those coping with loss. In the true spirit of the season, let’s make an extra effort to extend care, kindness and compassion to those who may need it most.

May your holiday season be filled with joy, peace and a renewed sense of community as we embrace grace, empathy, and generosity toward one another.

Happy Holidays!

December 2024

PUBLISHERS

Gordon Montgomery

gordon.montgomery@citylifestyle.com

Kelley Lamm kelley.lamm@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Casey Pierce | casey.pierce@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Christina Schmidt | christina.schmidt@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Julie Brown Patton, Robin Seaton Jefferson, Mel Boban, Tia Tricamo, Stacey Collins Bibb, Kelley Lamm

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Carol Green The Graceful Lens, Iris Schmidt (Christina Iris Schmidt) Gordon Montgomery, Brett Bartrum

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

Proverbs 3:5-6

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

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN DECEMBER

city scene

1: Hot Listers Steven and Tina Perrmann enjoyed swanky cocktails and friends at 360 Westport. 2: The Marketplace at The Abbey enjoyed celebrating at the annual Hot List event at 360Westport. 3: Oasis Pools made the City Lifestyle Hot List party and celebrated at 360 Westport. 4: St. Closet Company Hot Listers enjoyed the evening at the annual Hot List event. 5: Annual Prayer Breakfast Keynote Speaker Brittney Ruby Miller with The Rooted Sisters at The Chase. 6: Emcee Mandy Murphy with Lisa Nichols at this years Rooted Sisters Annual Prayer Breakfast. 7: Hot Listers, Jeannie and Michael Crosby from The Commons attended this years City Lifestyle Hot List party.

STAGES, The Rep Partner To Provide Million Dollar Quarter Christmas

STAGES St. Louis and The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis are partnering to bring Million Dollar Quartet Christmas to St. Louis in a first of its kind co-production partnership The performance will run Dec. 4-22 at the Loretto-Hilton Center for the Performing Arts on Webster University’s campus. The show highlights holiday songs originally performed by Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins. Tickets available online at RepSTL.org/events/detail/ Million-Dollar-Quartet-Christmas.

Photography by Scott Moreau as Johnny Cash

Christmas Tree Recycling In Ladue

Ladue city staffers indicate Christmas tree collection will begin starting the second week of January (leaf collection schedule permitting). Trees must be cleared of all ornaments, garland and decorations and placed at the curb. City staffers don't collect garlands or wreaths, and they said those items need to be disposed of in the trash due to their wires, staples and other metal pieces that make them unfit for mulching/composting.

RACSTL/Continuity To Invest $500,000 in Grants to Local Filmmakers

Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis representatives, with Continuity, are granting up to $100,000 to filmmakers, creators, motion visual and media artists. Called the St. Louis Film Project, the initiative is part of the ARPA for Arts Tourism Recovery grants to foster a vibrant, local film/media arts scene by investing $500,000 in local creators for film/ TV/content enthusiasts, industry professionals and the public for screenings, panel discussions and networking opportunities. Grants awarded by Jan. 24, 2025.

St. Louis’s ONLY BLUE DIAMOND +

Scan for your free consultation today!

Clayton Hotel Reopens Chalet Rooftop Bar, Winter Festive Activities

Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton staffers again offer their La Fête season, with the hotel’s rooftop pop-up bar “The Chalet,” evoking the spirit of a luxury European ski lodge. The Chalet's open Fridays 5-8 p.m., Saturdays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It includes curling rink, firepits, special food/ beverage menu, live music, buildyour-own s’mores bar. Tickets purchased on Eventbrite. The outdoor curling rink can be reserved through Dec. 29.

by Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton

Photography

Cheers To 2025

Ideas For A Relaxing New Year’s Eve Celebration

In the rush of the holidays, the last big celebration of the bunch is often left to last-minute plans. New Year's Eve, without longstanding traditions in place, can be tough to plan for or hard to secure a reservation. Restaurants often set prix-fixe menus, or sell tickets for a full evening celebration. Many choose to avoid going out for the safety of driving after midnight. For those who aren't up for a dressy, fancy night out on the town, there are plenty of creative ways to celebrate alternatively. Whether someone's year was full of highs or lows, the New Year ahead is always worth celebrating and welcoming. So many new possibilities lie ahead. 2025 is written in the stars. For those lucky enough to live far from light pollution, or have a friend who does, setting up a telescope with a bonfire for an outdoor celestial gathering is a fun and quiet way to ring in the New Year. Look for favorite constellations or zoom in on planets in view. To stay warm, pair a chilly outdoor evening with foods and beverages such as soup or hot chocolate.

ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

“If not up for a fancy night out, there are plenty of creative ways to celebrate alternatively. Whether someone’s year was full of highs or lows, the New Year ahead is always worth celebrating and welcoming.”

If staying warm is more the desired style, a movie marathon will pass the time with entertainment while waiting for midnight. Pop some popcorn, gather favorite candy and let movie selections roll. Movies could be selected by each participant at random or they can follow a New Year's theme. This is a great alternative after really hectic holiday seasons spent with large groups.

Let the games begin! Grab a table full of friends or family members and host a game night in. Games can begin on the hour and rotate to keep everyone from getting bored. Friendly and fun competition always makes for great memories, especially if it's snowing outside.

If New Year's is all about setting goals and ringing in big plans, celebrating while planning for 2025 is the best way to start out positive. Gather magazines for vision board creation or have everyone join with their new journals in tow. Setting concrete goals with clear action plans sets up the year for success and

makes for a productive evening where everyone feels excited for what lies ahead.

New Year's Eve is a long haul! You have plenty of time, so tackling a complicated recipe or baking ahead in bulk is a well suited activity for the evening. From homemade pasta, handstuffed raviolis or pierogi, or even make-ahead meals that freeze easily, an evening in the kitchen is always fun. Invite some extra guests so all hands are on deck and everyone can leave with a gift that keeps on giving. Everyone can all learn together and contribute to optimizing the recipes.

Gift the Gift of Music

Enjoy on-demand performances by your favorite artists with the easy-to-use Enspire Controller App.

Experience lifelike piano performances complete with countless other instruments - even vocals!

Make your next party a hit with built-in “fun for beginners” Smartkey songs!

Listen to over 30 channels of original artist music (including seasonal channels) with Disklavier Radio

Host Live, in-home concerts by Elton John, Sarah McLachlan, The Piano Guys & more with Disklavier TV!

Play with Headphones or connect to your home audio system and enjoy music throughout your entire house!

Unwind while your piano automatically updates and calibrates itself! All you have to do is have it tunes!

Scan to see how this piano can entertain your guest all by itself.

ONE LONGESTRUNNING TOY STORE

ARTICLE

JULIE BROWN

PATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROL GREEN THE GRACEFUL LENS

IMAGINATION TOYS STILL DELIGHTS THROUGH UNIQUE, CREATIVE PRODUCTS PLUS FREE GIFT WRAPPING

"A great toy is like a good book. It opens up an array of possibilities and lets the imagination soar," asserts Mark Johnson, founder of Marble Genius.

From superhero birthday cake candles, family games, craft accessories, books and Lego kits to puppets, nature gadgets, action figures, outdoor fun items and musical toys, customers repeatedly enjoy discovering new inspiration at Imagination Toys in Ladue.

The store's co-owners at 9737 Clayton Road within the Granaway Shops are Sally Kriegel and Lisa Adorjan. They state that the shop's mission is to provide the highest quality educational, developmental and creative toys that nurture imagination and encourage children to think and to have fun.

"Since 1985, Imagination Toys has been the specialty toy store of choice in the St. Louis metropolitan area with unique, timeless toys and gifts for children," says Sally.

Lisa adds, "We strive to assist each person who walks into the store to find special items that will create excitement and joy during the holidays and throughout the year."

In essence, they intentio ally carry toys that suport FUNdamentals of child develoment: Independent Play, Cooperative Play, Motor Skills, Visual Learning, Creative Play, Language Development, Logical Thought and Learning Through Music.

The store's founders, Marjorie Versprille and Teg Stokes, retired at the end of the 2011 holiday season. Upon learning of the goingout-of-business sale, Polly Lett purchased the business during January 2012, remodeled the 4,000-square-foot storefront and continued its long-held tradition of unique offerings for babies, youths, teens and families. Then Sally and Lisa took over the business during January 2022.

Sally says, "Imagination Toys is still special in today’s market because we offer high-quality educational and creative toys to spur children's imaginations and to encourage originality."

She says a few of her and Lisa's personal favorites are the Toniebox, an imagination-building, screen-free digital listening experience that plays stories and songs. "Bruder trucks are another favorite with their range of durable vehicles from garbage trucks and cement mixers to combine harvesters and fire engines."

Lisa adds that their extensive dress-up collection encourages pretend play and adventure from princesses to pirates.

On a national level, 2024 trends for most popular STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) toys according to American consumer technology website CNET include electronics exploration kits, slime/putty labs, critical thinking brain games and DIY building kits.

With the letter A being added to STEM modern terminology to include "Arts" as STEAM, St. Louis' beloved toy shop offers many arts and crafts, including loom kits, jewelry making, scratch cards, themed coloring books, journals, sticker sheets, decorative mobiles, 3D puzzles, easy-grip crayons, origami, doodlers markers, painting kits, window art, tattoo pens, sidewalk chalks, make your own snow globes, wind chime kits, modeling clay, nail art, comic books, paper dolls, sketch boards, garden stones, scented gel pens, soap dough, traveler activity packets and dinosaur digs.

Lisa and Sally assure that there are many exciting toys available for kids of all ages this holiday season: "A few of our favorites are the Fat Brain Air Toobz with new expansion kits that offer a building STEM experience that sends balls racing through tubes and connectors. Hitster will bring families together this holiday season testing their knowledge of songs through the decades. Luki Lab Flat 2 Fast cars transform from cards into superfast racing vehicles with the press of a button and fit perfectly in a pocket for on-the-go play."

Interestingly, when this local store first opened in 1985, the top 10 most popular toys were Cabbage Patch Kids; Transformers; Pillow People; Pogo balls; skateboards; G.I. Joe; Atari; Teddy Ruxpin animatronic talking bear; Rainbow Brite doll; and Care Bears.

Imagination Toys now carries both treasured traditional brands, such as Brio, Lego, Playmobil, Madame Alexander and Hape, as well as newer curated brands, such as Abacus, Connetix, Dopeslimes, Kidamento and Glo Pals. Customers can peruse shelf after shelf of toys and interesting choices. Nostalgic options also are aplenty, such as Spirographs.

Additionally, the shop's team can recommend items especially based on age categories: baby, toddler, 3 years and older, 5 years and older, 8 years and older, 12 and older.

Lisa states, "Customer service is at the heart of what we do." Imagination Toys is open Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Lisa and Sally assure that they constantly get in "new goodies."

Their toy experts can help identify perfect gifts for any age child, wrap it beautifully for the proper occasion and ship it anywhere in the continental United States, if needed. Imagination Toys items also can be purchased online.

"Get the toys you love and the service you want," suggests Sally.

314.993.6288

“OUR IMAGINATION TOYS GIFT CARDS MAKE GREAT STOCKING STUFFERS OR PRESENTS, TOO.”

Hair Styles For Holidays

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY IRIS SCHMIDT

This year's top trending winter hair colors include vivid hues, such as fireside red, snow blonde and auburn copper. From the Strands hair salon at 706 De Mun Ave., Apt. A, in Clayton, master stylist Rob Govero performs hair magic, especially for holiday gatherings or photos.

Rob and his team rely on varied experience, having been commissioned to do New York and LA Fashion Weeks, and also having been inducted into the ultra-exclusive Intercoifure North America/Canada for Mondial Europe.

ROB GOVERO PROVIDES TIPS, TRENDS AND TRANSFORMATIONS

“AT STRANDS HAIR SALON, WE’RE DEDICATED TO

PROVIDING WORLD-CLASS HAIR, BARBER AND SPA SERVICES, ESPECIALLY DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON,” VOWS ROB GOVERO.

"A lot of hairstyles for the holiday season sometimes tend to be shorter because the collars of the shirts and jackets during the winter months interfere with the hairstyles, or the styles tend to be longer so they can hang outside of the collars," Rob states.

"We are doing many cute cuts, but I find there's so much more of an emphasis lately on coloring and dimension in the hair over the actual haircut. At least in our salon it's been that way. Maybe it's because we have a bunch of master color certified stylists."

Overall hair trends that Rob says he sees lean toward autumnal coloring and root smudges to minimize regrowth and make maintenance easier especially for those requiring grey coverage.

Are natural colors in blonde and copper still in or out? Rob assures they are definitely in right now. "Many are definitely putting some warmth back in their hair, with some more golden copper tones, and again some root smudges."

Bangs in or out? "I believe bangs are still in and doing very well, especially longer curtain bangs, and even some fringe bangs. With most clients, facing bangs or Botox bangs, are definitely a cheaper alternative to softening up the look and disguising hairlines and thinning hair lines," he says.

Hair bobs still seem wildly popular. Rob says he's been taking a lot of girls' hair extensions out or cutting their hair off and bobbing it just below the jawline to just grazing the shoulder because they can still pull it up and curl it, and it looks very sophisticated.

"Bobs are timeless and classic. I think they will always be in," Rob predicts.

Robert Govero

STRANDS HAIR SALON

Robert Govero and team at Strands hair salon in Clayton offer a variety of services, including haircuts/styling for both men and woman of all ages; formal up-dos; blowouts; hair extensions; single process color; full/partial foils; corrective coloring; keratin treatments; bond multiplier/constructor; balayage and chemical perms.

The salon’s spa services include facials, microblading, microdermabrasion, eyebrow waxing and eyelash extensions.

Rob founded multiple salons dedicated to providing the best staff, customer service and salon experiences. He now assists other salons with consulting services and mentors future cosmetologists/salon owners through the Missouri Apprenticeship Supervisor Program.

He’s an award-winning master stylist with multiple certifications as a master colorist with Keune and Goldwell Haircolor cosmetic lines. With 35-plus years experience, he’s worked for European and American color lines as an educator and/or attended training with companies, including Vidal Sassoon, Toni and Guy, Jacque Dessange, Logics, Matrix, Redken, Schwarzkopf and Aveda, Scruples, Keratin Complex, Goldwell, L’Oreal Professional, KMS, Moroccanoil, Colorproof and Keune. Strands Salon and Spa is open Mondays through Fridays from 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., plus Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The salon is closed on Sundays.

Lived in or layered hair still popular? Rob says there are very few times that he does just a one layer cut. "Usually you need layers not only to provide some fullness in volume but to give a lot of dimension and fullness in the hair with some movement. Very few people wear their hair completely straight. Most people either wear it with a wispy bend blowout or a wavy curly textured pattern."

Hair bows and other accessories for ponytails, braids, buns and half updos for parties and gatherings are always fun for holidays and formal occasions. "I don't think that will ever go out. Plus they can be reused to help hold the hair up," Rob suggests. Rob says while they do some extensions, they're not really known for being 'an extension salon.' But he adds that he doesn't think extensions will ever go out of style. "People love their long hair, and hair tends to thin as we get older. For many, extensions are not only for some length, but mainly for fullness. We also have the ability to do extensions using the new V light method for sending bangs and temple areas of the haircut."

Men may best achieve a new hair look for the holiday season through personalized hair cuts, recommends Rob. "Plus we have two barbers working out of our salon, so we do everything from the classic straight blade, shave, skin fades, and then your regular classic men's haircuts. I find that with longer hair, it's usually permed on top and wavy but for short hair, it's usually crisp and a lot of people do opt in for a fade, whether it be a hair or a skin fade."

National chatter is that for men seeking a low-maintenance yet stylish haircut, the textured crop will be a go-to in 2025. This style is characterized by its short length and choppy, textured top. It's ideal for men who prefer a rugged, effortlessly cool look that requires minimal styling.

One specific version will be The French Crop, a short haircut that’s characterized by its blunt fringe and textured top. This style is perfect for men who want a sharp, edgy look that’s easy to maintain. It’s particularly well-suited for those with thick or straight hair. To achieve this look, men should get a blunt fringe cut straight across the forehead, creating a bold, defined line. Then use point cutting to add texture to the top, giving the hair a choppy, rugged appearance. Lastly, pair the blunt fringe with a fade on the sides for a modern, balanced look.

314.725.1717

Strands-Hair.com

ARTICLE BY ROBIN SEATON JEFFERSON

Photo by Brett Bartrum

One proverb embodies that necessity is the mother of invention. For Brett and Mandy Bartrum, it came in the form of a new business and an as-of-yet untapped market in St. Charles County.

The Bartrums own and operate Juiced Wheels, an e-bike specialty and service shop, in Frenchtown in St. Charles, virtually in the center of the city’s $85 million City Centre Complex project and the Frenchtown Great Streets Plan.

Ironically, they say they started Juiced Wheels when many businesses were failing during the 2020 pandemic. Today, clients come from all over the state, and their business has tripled.

An IT master and a doctor of nursing and infection specialist by trade, Brett and Mandy, respectively, discovered electric biking while living in Colorado. They say they wanted to get healthy and to explore the outdoors. Electric biking helped them with both.

Essentially an electrically power-assisted motorized bicycle, the electric bicycle or “e-bike” can be powered by electricity as well as by pedaling. E-bikes came a long way since Hosea Libbey invented the first one in 1897, helping users enjoy the outdoors while overcoming obstacles such as steep inclines and high physical effort.

E-bikes have many of the same components as regular bicycles, including pedals, chains and gears. But an e-bike also has a battery, motor, computer and most have throttles. “With e-bikes, you don’t have to worry about hills, or headwind, or being too exhausted to make it back home. They allow people to go further than they would otherwise,” he says.

But the Bartrums say they realized the expense of purchasing the bikes and then trying to access affordable support was burdensome.

“We saw a need in the area for a dedicated e-bike shop,” Brett says. “We discovered people don’t want to go into a shop and spend $3,000 on an e-bike, when instead they can buy online for a fraction of the cost and have us support them.”

Photo by Gordon Montgomery

Photo by Brett Bartrum

Photo by Gordon Montgomery

“We

partnered with DTC brands where we can get bikes at better prices online, and at the same time, we are here to support them.”

So Juiced Wheels has become a local support for the directto-consumer market. By partnering with brands that sell directly to customers online, e-bikers can bypass expensive dealerships. “We partnered with DTC brands where we can get bikes at better prices online, and at the same time, we are here to support them.”

With his background in IT, automation, data analytics and cybersecurity, Brett brought technology into every facet of Juiced Wheels.

The company has a full-service department that honors the same deals as online brands. They charge a $150 assembly fee when an e-bike is purchased through Juiced Wheels, which includes a free six-month safety check. They have a mobile van for pickups and deliveries, and do warranty work with more than a dozen e-bike brands. They also sell and rent helmets

equipped with speakers, so riders can communicate on trails. The company also offers BiKeep, as smart bike locking, parking and charging stations, as well as community bike tools and a workstation for free.

The Bartrums named their business Juiced Wheels, because when they started, they intended to sell cold-pressed juice and e-bikes together, a hot combination on the East Coast. With the increase in their e-bike business, they quickly sold off their equipment to Neon Banana in Clayton and B Juiced in Ferguson.

The Bartrums became parents in 2018, and say they're now teaching their daughter, Science Bartrum, everything about biking.

636.373.8135 JuicedWheels.com

ARTICLE BY TIA TRICAMO

Festive Family Fun

FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON IN ST. LOUIS

Polar Express Train Ride

Looking for ways to celebrate the holidays with loved ones? St. Louis has the perfect holiday activities for every family.

Throughout November and December, the Polar Express train ride at St. Louis Union Station transports guests into the world of the beloved holiday classic, with singing, dancing, cookies and, of course, hot chocolate.

St. Charles Christmas Traditions

The St. Charles Christmas Traditions festival combines fairytale whimsy with fascinating history. From Nov. 29 until Christmas Eve, families can experience Victorian carolers, storytelling and holiday delicacies each weekend.

Weirdly Wonderful Holidays

The City Museum hosts Weirdly Wonderful Holidays events throughout the season, with dazzling light displays, specialty holiday treats and storytelling with Mrs. Claus.

The Nutcracker: A Shorter Tale

For families with younger children, the Saint Louis Ballet presents The Nutcracker: A Shorter Tale, a condensed version of the classic, featuring the same stunning sets, costumes, and special effects at a runtime of just 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Old Fashioned Christmas Festival

Further south in picturesque Kimmswick, families can visit the Old Fashioned Christmas Festival from Dec. 6-8, featuring local merchants, entertainment and a visit from Santa Claus.

CONFECTION

Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience

As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. While a simple cup of hot cocoa can warm the soul, why not take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board? Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy. Let’s explore the wonders of old-fashioned hot cocoa and all the accompaniments you can use to create your very own hot cocoa charcuterie board.

THE DELIGHTS OF OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA

Old-fashioned hot cocoa transports us to simpler times and brings with it a sense of nostalgia. The slow, traditional process of making hot chocolate from scratch – with real chocolate, milk and a touch of sweetness – provides a distinctly memorable experience for the holidays.

OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA

Ingredients

• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels

• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa

• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar

• 2 cups milk

• 2 cups half and half

• 1 pinch salt

• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions

Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER

CREATING THE PERFECT HOT COCOA

CHARCUTERIE BOARD

Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure, and serve as a sweet centerpiece to your holiday gatherings.

Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.

VARIATIONS TO SAVOR

Indulge in some exciting recipes that are sure to elevate your hot chocolate into fun and festive beverages during the holidays and throughout the colder months.

MINTY FRESH WONDER

Embrace the festive season with a mint-infused hot cocoa. Fancify your beverage with a peppermint stick or make your

own crushed candy cane dust for a touch of holiday cheer. This minty delight is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect indulgence for cozy winter evenings.

SPICY AZTEC ELIXIR

Channel your inner adventurer with an Aztec-inspired hot cocoa. Infuse your drink with a touch of chili powder and a dash of cinnamon. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a festive presentation. This fiery blend will ignite your senses and warm you from the inside out.

GROWN-UP GRASSHOPPER

Transform your drink into a rich adult-only grasshopper hot cocoa by adding 2 oz. of crème de menthe or a shot of peppermint schnapps. Adorn with a crushed candy cane rim for a playful offering.

DECADENT SALTED CARAMEL INDULGENCE

Elevate your hot cocoa experience with a drizzle of homemade salted caramel. The combination of slightly bitter cocoa and sweet, buttery caramel is a match made in heaven. Sprinkle an extra pinch of sea salt for that irresistible contrast.

Creating beautiful smiles.

Jeffrey Portman, Kristin Ward, and Doug Hardin, Financial Advisors

SAINT NICHOLAS,

SVIATYIJ MYKOLAI? Sankt Nikolaus, or

ST. NICHOLAS DAY: HOW FAMILIES CELEBRATE

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY STACEY COLLINS-DIXSON

More than two millennia ago, the real Santa Claus lived in the area now known as Turkey. Orphaned after an epidemic claimed the lives of his parents, Nicholas reportedly used his inheritance to fulfill the commandment of Christ to help the poor. Because of his faith and works, Nicholas was made Bishop of Myra. Nicholas died on Dec. 6, AD 343, the day now known as Saint Nicholas Day.

Oranges and candy canes are common symbols of the generosity of St. Nicholas.

How did this bishop become synonymous with the Christmas holiday season? What is Saint Nicholas Day, and why do some Christians celebrate it in addition to the Christmas already enjoyed? And what’s with the shoes? To understand Saint Nicholas Day as well as many Christmas traditions, it's important to delve a bit more into the history and legend of this Bishop from across the globe.

According to one such legend, during the life of Nicholas, a poor man in his village had three daughters. In that time, young women had to bring into a prospective marriage a sum of money, property or livestock. Without this dowry, women were unlikely to marry and would be sold into slavery. One night, bags of gold coins were anonymously tossed into the window of the modest home, landing in socks and shoes drying in front of the fireplace. The generous donor was said to be no other than Nicholas of Myra himself, who couldn't bear to see the young women face such an inhumane future. Thus, the tradition was born of hanging stockings in front of the fireplace in anticipation of gifts from St. Nicholas.

On the eve of Saint Nicholas Day, children in countries around the world follow this tradition by placing their shoes out in hopes of them being filled with small favors from old St. Nick. In remembrance of this legend, the shoes are often filled with oranges and chocolate coins, both of which represent the bags of gold that were tossed into the poor man’s window.

Another legend, though more ominous in origin, established Saint Nicholas as protector of children

“Kids awaken to chocolate coins, cookies and candy canes: the symbol of the Bishop’s staff St. Nicholas carried.”

rather than gift giver. In this story from France, three children got lost playing outside. Lured by an evil butcher or innkeeper (the story alternates between the two), the children were captured and met their demise. St. Nicholas learned of this and appealed fervently to God to restore the children to life. This prayer was

CONTINUED >

Wooden shoes are an old European custom for St. Nicholas Day.

answered, and Saint Nicholas became the patron saint and protector of children.

Saint Nicholas Day is celebrated across the world. In the Netherlands, parades are common and St. Nick arrives to these events with panache, on horseback or even by helicopter. Wooden shoes, called klompen, are set out and songs are sung in anticipation of the arrival of Sinterklaas. Kids awaken to find small toys, chocolate coins, cookies, and candy canes: the symbol of the Bishop’s staff that St. Nicholas used to carry.

In Ukraine, Dec. 6 is known as “Magic Night,” and is celebrated as a universal children’s festival. There, Saint Nicholas leaves small gifts under the pillows of children or in their boots. Sweets are the routine gifts for this special day in the Ukraine;

gingerbread, chocolate, candy and fruit are given, as well as small toys or necessities, such as gloves or scarves.

How can one incorporate some version of these traditions? On the night of Dec. 5, have children set their shoes by the fireplace or door. Fill them with clementines, candy canes, chocolate coins and a few small gifts. Squeezable fruit and pacifiers are great for infants. Small Lego packs are fun for the preschool set. Lip balm, nail polish, a small gift card, cute socks, or religious tokens such as Tiny Saints or Shining Light Dolls are appropriate for the older ones. Celebrating St. Nicholas Day is a great opportunity to promote the values of generosity and stewardship while having a little fun.

Happy St. Nicholas Day!

Wooden shoes await a visit from St. Nicholas to St. Charles County.

Rosie Finds Her Shine

Rosie is a little reindeer journeying through self-doubt as she navigates 'comparison.' Other North Pole reindeer know what they want to do. Rosie finds courage to follow her specific path, helping her discover she shines in her own special way.

Author Megan Rogers says, “Rosie tells us we each have a special knack. We must answer the call of our hearts, and our gifts will create an impact.”

Rosie encourages readers to lean into unique gifts God has given so they can find their shine.

Life is Rosie offers school visits, mascot rentals, live story time, wholesale opportunities, a Teachers Pay Teachers Holiday Shop and Rosie the Reindeerthemed merchandise.

The book's available in hardback or digital download with partnering plushie, pajamas and activity book.

LifeIsRosie.co

Rosie Storybook Steals Hearts As She Make Her Way Into Family Holiday Traditions

ARTICLE BY KELLEY LAMM

Author Megan Rogers

Making Spirits

JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”

As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.

Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.

One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.

Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.

These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just

about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”

We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.

To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.

The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org

DECEMBER 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

DECEMBER 1ST-8TH First Date

Jewish Community Center | 7:30 PM

NJT will present a romantic musical comedy by Austin Winsberg, Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner. When blind date newbie Aaron is set up with serial-dater Casey, a casual drink at a busy New York restaurant turns into a hilarious high-stakes dinner. Go to JCCStL. com/arts-ideas/new-jewish-theatre/ current-productions for more details or tickets.

DECEMBER 5TH-14TH USAF BOMA Holiday

Concerts

Multiple | 7:00 PM

These concerts will be performed by the U.S. Air Force Band of Mid-America. Dec. 5: Kirkwood PAC; Dec. 6: Kirkwood PAC; Dec. 7: Touhill PAC; Dec. 10-11: Mascoutah High School; Dec. 12-14: McKendree University Hettenhausen. For specific times of each performance and more details, visit the schedule online at Music.AF.mil/Bands/US-Air-Force-Band-ofMid-America or call 618.229.8188.

DECEMBER 6TH

Drop-in Collection Tour— Global Celebrations

Saint Louis Art Museum | 1:00 PM

Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, Diwali, Christmas and more. Discover works of art related to diverse celebrations that occur during wintertime worldwide. Make the most of the holiday season with a journey through global joy and art. Tours begin at the welcome desk in Sculpture Hall on a first-come, firstserved basis. Generous support was provided by Art Bridges Foundation's Access for All program.

DECEMBER 6TH

Ladue Chapel Nursery

School Holiday Mart

Ladue Chapel Presbyterian Church | 9:00 AM

Free entry; concludes at 5 p.m. La Canasta will be there with handwoven recycled plastic baskets from Guatemala, made by skilled artisans. From mini baskets that fit in the palm of hands to jumbos, the baskets are fashionable yet durable and come with a lifetime guarantee. Products also offered: hand-dyed wallets, leather pouches, jade bracelets, beaded bird ornaments. Call 314.993.3993.

DECEMBER 7TH

Punk Rock Christmas

The Pageant | 4:00 PM

Punk Rock Christmas is back and bigger than ever. The best Christmas songs of all time, all punked up by an all-star band, featuring members of Goldfinger, LUDO, Greek Fire, Cavo and Tidal Volume. Plus special guests Clownvis Presley and more family-friendly holiday cheer crammed into one building.

DECEMBER 8TH

That One Mailman (Theater)

Helium Comedy Club | 7:00 PM

Join this fun, relaxed event with good company. Organizers promise it will be a perfect way to spend that evening. Sean Fogelson is launching into stardom with charisma. Starting on TikTok as That One Mailman bringing belly chuckles and joy to millions across the platform now going on tour with Gary Owen and doing the same to a live audience.

Navigating Parkinson’s Disease:

A Comprehensive Guide On Enhancing Your Quality Of Life.

By: Dr. Beth Templin

You may be surprised to hear that intense exercise is highly recommended for a progressive disorder such as Parkinson’s Disease (PD). In fact, research has shown this is the approach that is most beneficial.

Whether exercising in a class, with the guidance of a physical therapist, or on your own, people with PD have some unique needs that must be taken i nto consideration The following guidelines should be focused on and prioritized when designing a PD specific workout:

High Effort Workouts

Complex Movements

Big Movements

Whole Body Exercises

Upright Posture

Intense workouts may sound intimidating for any aging adults, let alone someone with a progressive condition, but intensity is one of the most important factors to see lasting benefits Not only are you fighting back against the normal aging process, but PD as well. Intense exercise allows you to stay active and independent.

If you want to learn more about how to manage the symptoms of PD, we' ve put together this FREE guide to

show how PD specific exercise is truly one of the best things you can do to slow down the progression and manage the symptoms of the disease.

Inside you'll learn:

Primary and secondary symptoms of PD. How exercise manages all of your Parkinson's symptoms. The most important things to get in your exercise routine. Top recommendations for managing PD longterm.

AND much more!

T his guide is available to you absolutely FREE of charge! To claim your copy, simply call our office at (314) 939-1377 or visit our website www.housefitstl.com/parkin sons to download the guide directly to your computer If you’re ready to slow down the progression of your PD and continue to live a full life, this guide is for you.

CONTINUED

DECEMBER 9TH

Wild Lights

Sensory-Friendly Night

Saint Louis Zoo | 5:00 PM

See the magic of Wild Lights until 8:30 p.m. Tickets for this night are a special price of $10 each. Enjoy brilliant displays featuring more than a million twinkling lights, festive menus, Zoo attractions, kids' activities and more. Tickets also are be purchased for evenings Dec. 1-29 for $12-$15 each; free for children ages 0-23 months. Some Zoo attractions included.

DECEMBER 21ST-22ND

Mercy Holiday Celebration

Stifel Theatre | 2:00 PM

Ring in the holidays with an afternoon of musical cheer. From sleigh bells to horse whinnies, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra bring the sounds of the holidays to life as they perform seasonal standards and exciting twists on beloved classics. Norman Huynh returns to conduct this holiday tradition alongside the dazzling vocalist and star of stage and screen Capathia Jenkins.

DECEMBER 26TH

Kwanzaa Celebration

Missouri History Museum | 5:00 PM

There will be a happy hour at 5 p.m. and the program starts at 6:30 p.m. in the auditorium. Join the first day of this weeklong annual celebration honoring African American culture. Reflect on the seven principles of Kwanzaa, spend time among community, and enjoy live performances. Presented by Wash University. For details, go online to MOHistory.org/Museum.