For many men, being a protector comes naturally. We work hard to provide stability, protect the people we love, and make sure our families are taken care of no matter what happens. But one of the most overlooked ways to protect your family is through estate planning.
More than a decade ago, I worked with a woman who spent eight years asking the probate court for permission to access her husband’s assets after he became incapacitated. By the time she came to me, her goal was simple: to ensure her daughters would not face the same struggle. We know that was never the outcome her husband wanted for his family—he simply thought he had more time.
That story has stayed with me because it reflects what I see so often. Many men delay estate planning because life is busy, business is demanding, and difficult conversations are easy to postpone. But without a clear plan in place, the people you love can be left facing confusion, delays, court involvement, and unnecessary stress during some of the hardest moments of their lives.
Estate planning is not just about documents. It is about leadership. It is about making decisions now, so your family is protected later. A properly designed
trust-based plan can help your spouse avoid probate, allow trusted people to step in if you become incapacitated, and ensure your assets are managed the way you intended.
I focus on making the process practical and approachable and guide you through the decisions that matter most and help ensure your trust is fully funded, so your plan actually works when your family needs it.
As men, we spend our lives protecting the people we love. Estate planning is simply one more way to fulfill that responsibility with confidence and clarity. If you are ready to protect your family’s future, contact us at 636-242-8973 to schedule your discovery call.
These are two of the coolest things I own, absolutely love, but will never use. Let’s talk about the cup first. Maybe it’s not a cup. I think it’s called a Snifter or Brandy Bowl. But, see how it’s made out of wood? It was hand-carved by Steve Palmer, Kirkwood resident and artisan woodworker of Sugarcreek Woodworks & Design. I absolutely love it because it’s flawlessly beautiful and it has a great story. The wood is from the Stag Beer Brewery, built in 1851. When they tore down the factory, Steve saved the original wood and crafted a limited number of cups. He said that the wood composite will absorb the flavors of whisky or bourbon, adding depth to the drink. If you come over to my house, I’ll happily pour you a cup and see what you think. I’ll also offer you my new favorite whiskey from local distiller Still 630. Jeff Gustafson, one of the owners of The Brothers Beer and Bourbon in Sunset Hills, said this RallyPoint Maple Sunset is an extremely rare, limited-edition spirit that begins as Rye Whiskey and is carefully finished with notes of bourbon and maple syrup. But that’s not why I absolutely love this brand. The labels are designed by my favorite, local graphic artist Mike Right. When I found out he designed the Still 630 bottles, I went to Brothers Beer to get the full collection. I mentioned that to Jeff as he was ringing up my bottles, and he said, “Fun fact. Do you know why they named the company 630?” Nope. He said, “Because the Arch is exactly 630 feet tall and 630 feet wide.” It occurred to me that if I asked, Jeff could probably share countless other stories about all the bottles that line the shelves of his shop. I love a good story told by an expert. That spontaneous dialog, that sense of community pride, doesn’t happen when you purchase something by clicking “Add to Cart.” So, I raise my cup to everyone who goes offline and shops local first. You are a rare find.
RENEE
MOORE, PUBLISHER @KIRKWOODCITYLIFESTYLE
June 2026
PUBLISHER
Renee Moore | renee.moore@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Kate Berry | kate.berry@citylifestyle.com
PHOTO EDITOR
Katrina Wright
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lucy Rogers, Katie Elizabeth
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Katrina Wright, Carey Campbell
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
Anna Minnick
QUALITY CONTROL
inside the issue
FIRING ON all cylinders
NEIL WESTFALL BELIEVES THE ROAD TO A STRONGER COMMUNITY STARTS WITH PEOPLE, NOT HORSEPOWER.
ARTICLE BY LUCY ROGERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WRIGHT
It’s 3:00 PM on a recent Saturday, and Neil is on the air at 93.3 FM, talking about cars with Matt Adams, a former Cardinals first baseman and loyal Audi customer. When planning his radio show, Driven w/Neil Westfall , Neil knew he didn’t want a program focused on torque curves and trim packages. Instead, he wanted a place where people could share the journeys that shaped them. “Most generally, telling the stories of humans being human is what people care about,” Neil said. “It’s what I care about.”
As General Manager of Audi Exchange Kirkwood, Neil leads one of the nation’s top Audi dealerships. The idea that cars can lead to something greater drives everything he does. “Cars are the common language, but the real story is always the people.”
Neil brought together some of his friends to discuss what it means to be community-driven. Former Kirkwood Mayor Tim Griffin, retired city attorney John Hessel, former Missouri Senator Mike Gibbons, and local business owner Rusty Baker shared their perspectives.
“It’s helpful to know what the community has looked like, and to understand how we got to where we are,” said Tim Griffin. “But if we don’t keep an eye on the potential for our future, we’re not moving forward. If we keep things the way they are, the way they have always been, we’re not growing. Communities that look forward, drive progress through new technology, diverse housing types, and varied retail environments.”
“When I think of being community-driven, I think of the wonderful people in our community who are kind and respectful to each other,” said John Hessel. “We are all neighbors who live together, and we can disagree, but we can also have a conversation without being disagreeable or hateful. We are not alike, and that is a good thing. I also think about the community holding on to aspects of Kirkwood’s past, like the Train Station and so many other marvelous buildings, while moving forward with some change. The Audi dealership and new buildings, like KPAC, are great examples of making progress with a new look.”
Neil Westfall, Mike Gibbons, Tim Griffin, John Hessel
“For me, being community-driven means understanding that success isn’t something you achieve in isolation—it’s something you build alongside others,” said Rusty Baker, owner of several local businesses, including Namaste Yoga and Cafe Amalia in Kirkwood.
“As a serial entrepreneur, I’ve had the opportunity to start and grow businesses, but the most meaningful part of that journey has always been the people and the community around me. Kirkwood isn’t just a place where I work—it’s a place I’m invested in by supporting local businesses, mentoring others who are just getting started, and creating opportunities that extend beyond myself. It’s about showing up, contributing, and helping build something that lasts. At the end of the day, business is personal. When you care about your community, you make decisions differently; you think long-term, you value relationships, and you measure success not just by profit but by impact. That’s what drives me.”
Mike Gibbons said, “Giving back to this community was driven into my sister and me by my parents’ actions. They were both very involved in the community. My dad was active with the Kirkwood Kiwanis, Kirkwood Library Board, and the Kirkwood Chamber of
Commerce, serving as President in 1982. My Mom was involved with Grace Church and was the first woman to serve as Senior Warden of the Vestry.” He added, “Being community-driven is making a commitment to the people around you to develop and deepen relationships, investing time, talent, and treasure to make things better for everyone.”
Neil agrees. As president of the St. Louis European Auto Show, Neil has showcased thousands of luxury vehicles and raised significant funds for charity. This year, the St. Louis European Auto Show, co-hosted by Lit Cigar Lounge, relocates to The District in Chesterfield, making it easier for car fans and families to enjoy a day of entertainment and dining. The St. Louis European Auto Show is on Sunday, June 14th, from 11 am to 2 pm. Admission is free for attendees. Car registration supports St. Louis Arc, which empowers those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. “Community, charity, and cars—it all goes together,” Neil says. “Everybody wins.”
For Neil, being community-driven isn’t just his philosophy—he says it’s the only way he knows.
John Hessel and Neil Westfall
Rusty Baker
Tim Griffin and Mike Gibbons
Homes Are Selling!
Have you thought about moving but aren’t sure where to start?
Whether you're ready for a change or just exploring your options, I'd love to sit down with you and help you decide if it's the right time to make a move.
You deserve a top local agent, and with my background in design, preparing homes for sale is one of my favorite parts of this business. I enjoy walking through each room and offering tailored suggestions to help your home stand out to today’s buyers.
Whether you’re buying or selling in Kirkwood, Webster Groves, Des Peres, or anywhere in the greater St. Louis area, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s get started.
Remarkable Men Creating Real Community Impact
Meet the men turning their passion into purpose-driven businesses that create vibrant communities.
ARTICLE BY LUCY ROGERS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
ROB COMPTON, BABALOO MUSIC & FUN
WACKY WEDNESDAYS AT KPAC
This summer, you could run into some very distinguished gentlemen at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center — men like Tommy Terrific, Nitro Joe, and Babaloo. They are just a few of the talented performers who have helped make Wacky Wednesdays…wacky.
Wacky Wednesdays is a summer tradition that started at the Kirkwood Public Library in 1994. The program’s popularity prompted a move to KPAC’s Strauss Black Box Theatre so that children, parents, and grandparents can enjoy this free, one-ofa-kind concert series.
Local favorite Babaloo Music & Fun is back in this year’s lineup. For more than 20 years, Rob Compton—known as Babaloo— has entertained kids with catchy songs about alligators and toothbrushes falling into the toilet. He says it best: “My job is to connect with kids; to make them smile and sing…and not just during the performance. I want them smiling and singing all the way home in the car, at the dinner table, in school the next day, and clear into the next year.”
Wacky Wednesday | June and July |10:30 AM | KPAC
No registration or ticket required.
Sponsored by the Kirkwood Public Library.
When Bruce Conner, owner of Massage Envy in Sunset Hills, asks men why they haven’t booked a massage, he usually hears the same thing: it never occurred to them. After twenty years in business, he’s still surprised by how many men wait until they’re sidelined by a pulled muscle before they finally come in.
“Getting massages and taking those knots out really makes you perform better. And you feel better,” Bruce said. Whether you want a better golf score or to wake up feeling energized for the day, muscle tension can quietly hold you back. Regular massage not only helps you recover from injuries but also keeps your body functioning well.
Therapists at Sunset Hills have watched clients improve even more when they add stretching to their sessions. Deep tissue work combined with assisted stretching leads to a better range of motion than foam rolling alone. Clients who stretch regularly move more easily, recover faster, and stay pain-free longer.
“This issue celebrates the performers, entrepreneurs, bankers, volunteers, and families who show that when locals invest in our community, everyone benefits.” “
Bruce noted another wellness topic many men still avoid - skin care. “Your face is what people notice first, so take care of it,” he said. “Facials are not just about looks—they’re about skin health. Younger men are clearing up stubborn acne with regular treatments, and older clients are seeing fewer signs of aging.”
Massage Envy in Sunset Hill is celebrating 20 years as a growing business serving our community. “I invite anyone, man or woman, who has ever thought about a career in this space to come and talk to us. We can help get you started,” offered Bruce. “Our mission is to help people feel better, move more, and show up as their best selves.”
CONTINUED >
BRUCE CONNER
OWNER OF MASSAGE ENVY SUNSET HILLS
FORREST MANN
AVP, BUSINESS BANKER AT ENTERPRISE BANK & TRUST
Focusing on the long game is how one banker’s love of golf shapes the way he builds community.
It has been said that business happens on the golf course. Forrest Mann would agree. Swinging a club sharpens his focus as an AVP, Business Banker at Enterprise Bank & Trust.
“I got my first set of clubs when I was four years old,” he recalls, smiling. “It was a Michael Jordan-branded kids’ set, and I’ve been hooked ever since.” He didn’t realize it then, but golf would teach the discipline, insight, clarity, and patience needed to support business owners in the community.
Forrest’s career didn’t begin in finance. “While studying economics, I worked as a personal trainer,” he says, laughing. “It was accidental, but both personal training and banking are about helping people achieve their goals.” Now, as a business banker, Forrest is helping business owners with cash flow, guiding them through loan applications, payroll concerns, and educating office teams on avoiding online scams and cyberattacks.
One of Forrest’s favorite lessons comes from Harvey Penick, a legendary golf instructor. In his best-selling Little Red Book, Harvey emphasizes simple golf fundamentals such as “taking dead aim.” On the golf course, that means knowing your target and committing to it. Off the course, Forrest sees it as a reminder to focus on what matters to each business owner aiming to achieve their specific goal. “Building relationships takes time and effort,” Forrest says. “There is a length to it.”
In the same way that Forrest is at his best out on the course, he’s equally on par hosting Enterprise Bank & Trust’s Coffee & Connections on the first Friday of each month in Clayton, and the second Friday every other month at the Kirkwood branch. These events give business teams the opportunity to meet other businesses in the community for quick conversations. Of course, Forrest will be happy to continue those conversations on the golf course.
RYAN WHITTINGTON AND JERRY ROSEN
WEBSTER GROVES ROTARY CLUB
Grow Webster is an initiative to rejuvenate the Webster Groves Rotary Club.
When club president Ryan Whittington stepped into the role, he focused on three priorities: keeping longtime members engaged, creating more flexible ways to serve, and bringing in new energy.
Ryan tapped Jerry Rosen, the executive director of the Quad Chamber of Commerce, to chair Grow Webster. Together, they created a survey to better understand how people want to serve. The results revealed that younger demographics want to be involved. They just need options.
“We realized not everyone can make our regular meeting and Friday lunch,” Ryan said. “So Grow Webster was created to attract more members and younger professionals.”
“It wasn’t about changing tradition,” Jerry added. “It was figuring out how to build upon it. The community has been incredibly good to business. Grow Webster offers ways for business leaders to give back to their community.”
The first opportunity was creating weekend volunteer programs. From mulching trails in Blackburn Park to restoring Forest Park through their Legacy Oaks project, which plants saplings from acorns of century-old trees in Webster Groves.
“It’s not just about service hours,” Ryan said. “It’s about creating opportunities that actually impact someone’s future.” The club also supports scholarships and hosts Career Day, connecting students with professionals across industries.
Keeping with tradition, the Friday lunch meetings remain for those who value consistency and connection. “Membership is growing. Participation is up. More people are contributing ideas and seeing them put into action,” he said. “It’s a Rotary Club that looks a little different, but works better for the people it serves.”
For younger residents, professionals, and retirees, there’s a clear entry point for anyone who wants to connect to the community.
Ready to make an impact? Join us for Friday lunch or a service project—take the first step, and help shape the future of Webster Groves with Rotary. For more information, visit webstergrovesrotary.org
THE THREE GEARARD BROTHERS… PLUS BOB
3GERARDS PIZZA
Four brothers. Three Gerards. One St. Louis Style Pizza. Rick Shaper, who founded 3Gerards Pizza with his brothers Tom, Scott, and Bob, explains the company’s name. “My middle name is Gerard, and my two younger brothers also have the middle name, Gerard. Our mother chose our middle names to honor St. Gerard, the patron saint of healthy babies. Bob’s middle name is Joseph… because he was born in St. Joseph.”
The four brothers grew up in St. Louis and decided to create a true tribute to authentic St. Louis Pizza. The authenticity begins with the right ingredients.
“St. Louis pizza is generally a sweet sauce, 100% provolone, ingredients all the way up to the edge, and a nice thin crispy crust,” says Rick. “The only difference is we freeze it so you can bake it at home.”
3Gerards stands out not just for its ingredients but also for its attention to detail. Every pizza is made by hand, not by machines,
which is rare for frozen pizzas. Rick says, “Consistency matters. People know when you cut corners.” After a year of research and development, Rick’s team found the perfect sausage. “Once we found it, our commitment to our customers was to never change it,” Rick adds.
Rick notes that, “3Gerards is about more than pizza. It’s about local people who care about their neighborhood, their company, and their craft, making sure every pizza looks great before it leaves. We believe every pizza brings us closer to what matters most: family.”
Dierbergs proudly supports this family-owned business. “They bring a real sense of local community to their stores,” says Rick.
“It’s easy to find our restaurant-quality St. Louis-style pizza in the freezer section. Our pizzas have a clear wrapper because we want shoppers to see the amount of toppings and know the care we put into making each pizza.”
LUKE AND KEVIN BEATTIE
FOX’S FINEST MEATS, SEAFOOD & MARKETPLACE
In 1875, Kirkwood’s first full-service market opened at Argonne and Clay. That spot is now home to Fox’s Finest Meats, Seafood & Marketplace, a new specialty market in Downtown Kirkwood. The concept started with a gap. Father-son team Kevin and Luke Beattie found it while cooking at home. “Luke is a foodie who loves to cook. We were driving 20 minutes for seafood and 30 for good meat,” Kevin said. “All the best businesses are born from a need,” said Luke. “We knew Kirkwood needed a market like this.”
Their idea for a local market grew as they traveled through France and Italy. They also visited cities like Charleston, South Carolina. There, Luke tried an unforgettable porchetta sandwich. A version of that sandwich now anchors Fox’s Finest specialty menu.
“Every time we walked into these great open-air and neighborhood markets, we discovered something new,” said Luke. “We both kept thinking this concept would fit perfectly in Kirkwood.”
Once their vision for the market was solidified, Luke and Kevin needed to land on a name. “Fox is both of our middle names,” said Luke. “It’s a family name.”
When you enter Fox’s Finest, you’ll see a curated selection of products, both approachable and premium. There are Wagyu beef hot dogs, fresh Faroe Islands salmon, sushi-grade tuna loins, and Amish-raised chicken. The charcuterie case is stocked with cheeses made by an Iowa artisan.
Along with meats, seafood, poultry, and pork, you’ll meet friendly, knowledgeable butchers and staff skilled in selecting whole fish, cutting custom steaks, and recommending new recipes.
Kevin added, “We want to have a sense of abundance, discovery, and craft that hits you the moment you walk through the door.”
That’s the point. The staff at Fox’s Finest wants to be part of your food journey. “We’re focused on providing one-on-one personalized service,” said Kevin. “Our team is prepared to walk through how to prepare a halibut fillet or tell you the exact temperature and perfect time to pull off your ribeye.”
Luke explains, “We also realize not everyone is a gourmet chef. Some may need more confidence to cook and prepare a meal at home. We want to be that confidence bridge.”
Both Kevin and Luke attended Kirkwood High School and take pride in being Pioneers. As part of their marketing push to prepare for the opening of Fox’s Finest, they chose to work with Kirkwood High School’s marketing and DECA programs for students’ senior projects. “When I was a part of Kirkwood High School’s marketing program, I always knew I wanted to come back home and open up a business in downtown Kirkwood,” said Luke. “Kirkwood’s always been a big part of my life. Being part of the community is what it’s always been about.”
AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST
Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short
Creative Director: Jen Birn
Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill
Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX
MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.
After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.
Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?
A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”
THE QUIET STANDARD:
MIKE JOHNSON
“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson
Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?
A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”
Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?
A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”
This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
MIKE JOHNSON
JUNIOR GOLF CAMPS
No matter your child’s age or ability, FGLC has the perfect camp for them.
4-Day Camps Tuesdays - Fridays in June & July
Register Now at familygolfonline.com
Katie and Dr Joshua and Dr . Jim
Pain, Pain, Go, Away.
Our conversation speaks directly to men who are avoiding health and wellness care.
Have you noticed that men sometimes ignore aches and pains until their wives urge them to see a doctor? Dr. Jim Hankinson at Back to Wellness Chiropractic in Kirkwood sees this all the time. I caught up with Dr. Jim and his new associate, Dr. Joshua Moul, at the Kirkwood Community Center to talk about men’s health and wellness.
Katie: First, let’s talk about your boys.
Dr. Jim: My oldest works for the Missouri Chamber of Commerce, and my youngest is studying geography and environmental science at SIU. My wife, Michelle, and I saw both boys play music on stage together for the first time in Carbondale. It was fantastic.
Katie: Do you still follow baseball?
Dr. Jim: I love baseball. That’s how I decided to become a chiropractor. I started pitching when I was 14. One day, I couldn’t move my head. My dad took me to a chiropractor who adjusted me three times that week, and I was able to play in my tournament. I knew from that moment that I wanted to create a life-changing experience for others.
Katie: Dr. Joshua, what drew you to being a chiropractor?
Dr. Joshua: I wanted to work in a way that would allow me to be a key part of a patient’s care. I really like that Back to Wellness Chiropractic invests in innovative health technology like SoftWave Therapy. It’s a game-changer. The results in reducing pain and improving our patients’ quality of life are so gratifying.
Katie: Who can benefit from SoftWave Therapy?
Dr. Jim: Anyone who has pain. We conduct an assessment to determine whether SoftWave is the right choice and make recommendations to ensure patients remain pain-free. Our goal is to avoid surgery, and we achieve that for more than 90% of our patients.
Katie: Men tend to push through their pain.
Dr. Jim: Absolutely. I don’t think men do it on purpose; it’s just how most guys are. They think their shoulder or knee pain will just go away. But the truth is, pain almost never disappears on its own. But once we start treating their pain, almost every guy tells me the same thing: “I wish I had come in sooner.”
“Men think their shoulder or knee pain will just go away. But the truth is, pain almost never disappears on its own.”
Dr. Joshua: I had a patient tell me that yesterday. He had shoulder pain and couldn’t move his arm out or above his head. After one treatment, he said, “I’ll be able to swing a golf club so much better now.”
Katie: Do people need to be in pain to benefit from chiropractic care?
Dr. Jim: Not at all. Preventive care is so important. Keeping your spine healthy can improve your mobility, energy, and overall quality of life.
Katie: Do you have proactive recommendations for men?
Dr. Joshua: We suggest taking supplements. Creatine for energy, magnesium glycinate for relaxation and muscle function, and vitamin D for immunity and overall wellness.
Dr. Jim: Make sure you choose high-quality supplements from trusted health stores, and if you have health conditions or take medication, check with your doctor first.
Katie: Last question. What message do you have for guys who are hesitant to come in?
Dr. Jim: If you want to enjoy boating, golf, or time with your family without pain, don’t wait. Come in and see the difference for yourself.
MOVEMENT IS MEDICINE WORKSHOP
Ready to move through life pain-free?
Join Dr. Jim Hankinson for a Movement is Medicine Workshop. Discover practical strategies to reduce, avoid, and eliminate pain. Take your first step toward a better quality of life at this free (no-registration) community event, sponsored by Kirkwood City Lifestyle. Wednesday, June 24, 10:00 AM, at the Kirkwood Community Center.
Katie and Dr Joshua and Dr. Jim
SUMMER GRILL RECIPES
ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW
THESE DELICIOUS RECIPES ARE LIGHT, BRIGHT AND FEEL LIKE SUMMER
The sun has returned, and grilling season is upon us. With the nice weather comes vegetable gardens and fresh produce, along with the overwhelming desire to be outside as much as possible. We’ve compiled some fresh and light dishes that you can shop for at your local farmers market and whether you’re looking for a quick mid-week meal or something to grill for a crowd on the weekend these dishes won’t disappoint. These pair well together or can stand on their own!
INGREDIENTS:
• 2lbs. Outside skirt steak*
• 2 Tablespoons lime*
• 2 Tablespoons finely, chopped cilantro
• ¼ Cup olive oil or avocado oil
• ¼ White onion, finely chopped
• 1 Tablespoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
1. Place skirt steak into gallon freezer bag
2. Combine all other ingredients in bowl and mix. Pour over steak and marinate for 3-4 hours or overnight in the fridge.
3. Bring skirt steak to room temperature by letting it sit out for one hour.
4. Get your grill hot on one side and medium on the other.
SIMPLE SKIRT STEAK
5. Once the grill is ready, wipe excess marinade off steak. Starting on the hot side, place skirt steak on grill for 2 minutes per side, attaining a nice sear.
6. Transfer steak to the cooler side of grill and cook until the internal temp is 130°. Let rest for 10 minutes (temp will rise while resting).
7. Carve and serve. This dish pairs well with beans and rice or served as tacos. Following is a chimichurri sauce that compliments it nicely.
*Outside skirt steak is a more tender cut than inside skirt steak, for this recipe outside skirt is recommended. Do not use too much lime as the citrus can cook the meat before putting it on the grill, resulting in a tougher texture.
CHIMICHURRI
INGREDIENTS:
• ½ Cup parsley, finely chopped
• ½ Cup cilantro, finely chopped
• 2 Tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 3 Cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Red chili (whole or deseeded depending on desired level of heat)
• ½ Teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 Teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon lime juice (optional)
DIRECTIONS:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. You can make this in the late morning and let it sit for around 4-6 hours, or you can make it the day before and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge. Just be sure to take it out and get it to room temp before you serve it, as olive oil hardens in the fridge. Serve over skirt steak or tacos.
ROASTED CORN SALSA
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 Ears sweet corn
• 10oz. Cherry tomatoes
• ¼ Cup lime juice
• 1 Finely chopped jalapeno or serrano (whole or deseeded depending on desired level of heat)
• ¼ Cup cilantro, finely chopped
• ½ Cup white onion, chopped
• 2 Cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
DIRECTIONS:
1. Grill corn, you do not need to soak the corn beforehand.
2. Place corn on the grill (inside their husks) over medium heat turning every few minutes.
3. After 10 to 12 minutes shuck the corn and put the cobs back on the grill for 2-4 minutes rotating frequently to achieve that charred look and flavor.
4. Cut the corn from the cob, place in bowl and add all other ingredients. Let the mixture meld for about an hour and serve with tortilla chips or as a taco garnish.
Is Whiskey On Ice
Nice?
BY EVE BUSHMAN
In speaking to Whiskey lovers (most happen to be men, but do accept me in their brethren as a fellow enthusiast, writer, and educator), I’ve learned a great many opinions on how to drink Whiskey. Specifically, preferences on adding water and ice vary greatly.
A brand ambassador that I had the privilege of listening to recently said the obvious: both dilution and temperature change when you add ice, so if you are going to add something, a little water is best. I personally prefer to use a water dropper, so I can add one drop at a time until I get to the desired taste.
THE BEST WAY TO ENJOY YOUR WHISKEY: ON THE ROCKS, ROCK, NEAT, OR WITH WATER
HERE ARE THE DIFFERENCES:
Rocks: Provides the highest rate of dilution as a lot of ice melts quickly. If you are drinking a barrel proof Whiskey, it kind of defeats the purpose as the distiller didn’t add water as they do in every other type of finished Whiskey.
On the Rock: The single rock, cube, or sphere is the slowest to melt and thought to be the most aesthetic. It’s nice if you want to stretch out your tasting. I often order on the rock if I want my drink to last longer.
Neat: This is the way single malt Scotch is served at a tasting event, in a branded Glencairn or Neat glass so that proper nosing for aromas can be achieved - and a dram of Scotch, smaller than an ounce, fits in them perfectly.
Water: As I mentioned above, quoting the brand ambassador, a little water is better for a fine Whiskey over any kind of ice. Often, if ordered with water, the water is served in a separate vessel on the side so you can add in as much as you want.
Quoting another expert on the subject, Richard Paterson of The Dalmore famously and enthusiastically demonstrates in his Scotch classes how to drink single malt Scotch Whiskey: Paterson fills a lowball glass to the rim with ice, adds Scotch and then ceremoniously throws it over his shoulder onto the carpet of the classroom – because that much ice makes the drink worthless. One more quote, never “add green tea or milk to Whiskey. You can add a little water, but not a lot of ice.”
Ultimately, the reason we add ice can be for aesthetics, to stretch out the time spent on one glass, for cooling, and for dilution. However, the number one reason enthusiasts add water is … drumroll please … because adding a little water actually opens up a Whiskey to show more aromas and flavors.
grilled seafood starts here
St. Louis weather is finally warming up, and that means it’s the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy fresh seafood with family and friends. From salmon and shrimp to lobster tails and scallops, City Seafood makes it easy to bring restaurant-quality seafood straight to your backyard. Simply order online, choose delivery or pickup, and enjoy fresh frozen seafood delivered right to your door, often the very same day you order.
The Brothers Beer & Bourbon House
Zach Mione owner of Webster Dry Goods and Chris Kinast of Perennial on Lockwood
Lander Haus Mercantile
Webster Dry Goods
The Summit All Seasons Market at Kirkwood Farmers Market
Sam Baker and Scott Waldman owners of Laurie’s Shoes
H.M. Cole Custom Suits
Patrick Murphy at the Webster Arts Fair
Let’s step into some of THE BEST places to shop for the most distinguished tastes and styles, especially when it comes to all things related to guys.
The Brothers Beer & Bourbon House in Sunset Hills is owned by brothers Danny and Jeff Gustafson and Bob Sears. We picked up a bottle of RallyPoint Maple Sunset, an extremely rare, limited-edi tion spirit that begins as our flagship Rye Whiskey and is carefully finished with notes of bourbon and beautiful maple syrup from local distiller Still 630.
Zack Clark, co-owner of The Summit All Seasons Market at the Kirkwood Farmers’ Market, put together a savory selection of local meats, sauces, and spices for our favor ite foodies. Also, shout out to the woman in the photo with Zach - WE LOVE YOUR HAT!
If you think Laurie’s Shoes in Glendale is just for kids, think again. Owners Sam Baker and Scott Waldman carry everything from Adidas to Ugg. For the man in your life, think Cole Haan, Ecco, Johnston & Murphy, and Mephisto. Why are you shopping at Nordstrom’s when you can shop local?
And why are you buying clothes online? Discover curated selections from Lander Haus Mercantile and custom styles from H.M. Cole. Have you met Zach Mione, the owner of Webster Dry Goods? Chilliest guy with a great selection of clothes in the store. Stop in and have a beer, and maybe strike up a conversation with Chris Kinast of Perennial on Lockwood.
One of the best gifts for giving (and getting) is a piece of local art. If you missed the Webster Arts Fair, check out the pieces on display and for sale at Webster Arts or at the Glendale Grind in Glendale.
Cheers to everyone who celebrates and supports our small businesses.
ARTICLE BY ANDREA MADDOCK PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAREY CAMPBELL
Tim Schulze, CLTC
JUNE 2026
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JUNE 11TH
Downtown Kirkwood Summer Concert Series featuring Curtis and the Cruisers
Station Plaza | 6:30 PM
Rock out, sing along, and dance to all your favorite songs as Curits and the Cruisers play a variety of genres, including Classic Rock, Country, and Modern Alt Rock, plus a few surprises. This concert is sponsored by Kirkwood City Lifestyle Magazine. Yes! We will be giving out swag to the first 100 people to attend.
JUNE 16TH
Kirkwood Performing Arts Center Coffee Concert Series featuring Robert Nelson
Kirkwood Performing Arts Center 10:30 AM
Start your morning with the smooth, sophisticated mastery of Dr. Robert Nelson, a premier baritone and a cornerstone of the St. Louis jazz scene. Enjoy the soulful blend of jazz, blues, and contemporary standards, along with coffee and refreshments, in a warm, community setting for just $20. Tickets available via MetroTix or by calling the KPAC Box Office.
JUNE 24TH
Movement is Medicine Workshop
Kirkwood Community Center | 10:00 AM
Ready to move through life pain-free? Join Dr. Jim Hankinson, owner of Back To Wellness Chiropractic, for a Movement is Medicine Workshop. Discover practical strategies to reduce, avoid, and eliminate pain. Take your first step toward a better quality of life at this free (no-registration) community event, sponsored by Katie Elizabeth, owner of Strong By Intention.
DISCOVER EMS TRAINING WITH BODY20
Step beyond the ordinary and explore a new frontier in personal training with BODY20. Our transformative Electro Muscular Stimulation (EMS) technology delivers a FULL BODY workout with real results in just 20-min. once or twice a week. Whether you want to tone up, build
or push past a plateau, our tailored sessions take your fitness to places it’s never
