Town & Style: 3.6.24

A PLACE TO FEEL NEEDED, WANTED & EXPECTED.

Odds are, you know of someone who is managing a serious and persistent mental illness. But did you know the first step toward meaningful healing is finding a safe place to belong? That’s where Independence Center comes in.

Our goal to destigmatize mental illness has led us to become one of the St. Louis area’s most comprehensive resources for assisting with care, education, employment, housing and more. One visit to our Clubhouse, and you’ll see just how we operate: By providing a very real sense of community, where every Member has a purpose, and where daily progress is made on the path to regaining the independence to live a healthy, quality life.

But we need your help to continue our mission!

Visit IndependenceCenter.org to hear the success stories from our members—and learn how you can support a great cause today.

Nationally 1 4 in

adults suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder in any given year*

Missouri Baptist Medical Center

We are BJC HealthCare.

You deserve extraordinary care.

Our experienced doctors, nurses, and caregivers are right in your community providing routine treatments and life-changing care.

We're here for you and your family–every day–because you deserve extraordinary care.

IN THE

by stephanie wallace

make-a-wish missouri & kansas

The nonprofit partnered with Spectrum and Hidden Valley Ski Resort to grant Wish Kid Charlie’s wish to have an Alaskan adventure. Charlie and his family gathered at the resort to learn his wish will be coming true beforing getting the opportunity to hit the slopes.

st. luke’s hospital

As a sweet treat for families, newborns at the hospital were transformed into candy hearts on Valentine’s Day thanks to special baby buntings.

webster arts

Congratulations to Mehlville artist Sarah Ball. Her oil and acrylic painting Oak Tree Wisdom won Best in Show for Webster Arts’ new exhibit Emerald, which explores how the hue appears in both abstract and concrete forms.

parkway south high school

The school’s librarian, Katie Pendleton (center), was named the St. Louis Suburban School Librarian of the Year by the

photographer

GORMAN

photographer

SALES

sr. account exec

sr. account exec JANIE SUMNER

ADMINISTRATIVE office manager

JOIN THE FIGHT

by stephanie wallace

A LITTLE MORE THAN 2 MILLION new cancer diagnoses are expected to be made in 2024, according to the American Cancer Society. For those who get the heartbreaking news, it often means the beginning of a long and difficult journey. Through groundbreaking research and treatment, Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine ensures it is a road no one has to travel alone. The center is a leader in cancer treatment, research, prevention, education and community outreach, providing care to thousands of patients from across the country.

Every year, more than 75,000 patients visit Siteman. The center is working on breakthroughs in personalizing cancer treatments, according to director Dr. Timothy Eberlein. “Personalization offers more favorable outcomes because it better targets cancer cells,” he says. One of the major areas of investigation is genome sequencing. For some types of cancer, such as leukemia, such sequencing can provide doctors with important insights into patient cases in a shorter amount of time than traditional tests. “In less than 48 hours, we can identify any abnormalities in the cancer genome,” Eberlein explains. “With that information, we can create better treatments for each patient. It’s a completely new way to think about and analyze an individual’s case.”

Genomic analysis of tumors also has led to other breakthroughs, such as the creation of personalized vaccines to treat breast and pancreatic cancers. “We identify the specific mutations and develop a vaccine that recognizes the tumor,” Eberlein notes. “A vaccine made to treat my cancer wouldn’t work to treat your cancer, and vice versa.” The targeted nature of the vaccine means that only cancer cells are destroyed. Additionally, better imaging and nanotechnology also are being used to develop therapies that leave healthy tissue undamaged. “We’re working toward better ways to more accurately treat various cancers, and that means better outcomes for patients,” Eberlein says.

Siteman is the only comprehensive cancer center in the region, serving Missouri, most of Illinois and beyond. As such, the center is dedicated to promoting the health of the community, especially for populations that are at greater risk for cancer mortality. “Our investigators have sought to address the mechanisms of public health

to reduce disparities in care and survival rates, including in underserved and rural communities that traditionally lack access to cutting-edge screening and treatment,” Eberlein says.

In the past, Black women in North County faced a risk for stage IV breast cancer that was two and a half times the national average. Thanks to Siteman’s outreach efforts with community partners and increased screening, that rate has been reduced. Siteman’s outreach programs have also worked to reduce the mortality rate for colorectal cancer in the Mississippi River valley south of St. Louis, a national hotspot for the disease.

As one of the largest cancer centers in the country, Siteman cannot rely solely on government funding for its critical work. Philanthropic support is equally important, allowing researchers to gather crucial data that can be used to secure larger grants from organizations like the National Cancer Institute and American Cancer Society. To power the wheel of innovative research at Siteman, the Cancer Frontier Fund was established 15 years ago at the Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital. “There is incredible competition for grants—the National Cancer Institute turns down 92% of all applicants,” Eberlein notes. “The fund makes our investigators much stronger competitors because they can provide primary data and proof of principle when applying. It’s a little like venture capital. You invest in a really good idea, and for every $1 dollar donated, you see an additional $12 raised through grants.”

One of the major fundraising events that benefits the Cancer Frontier Fund is the Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital’s Illumination Gala. Since 2007, the event has raised more than $45 million, and those funds have been used to support more than 162 cancer research projects. This year, the gala will be June 1 at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis. The evening’s celebrity guest host is comedian Jay Leno, and Julie and Rusty Keeley of Keeley Companies and St. Louis City SC’s Carolyn Kindle are serving as lead ambassadors. “It’s amazing to see these individuals share their time and resources to help us raise money to fuel new ideas and treatments,” Eberlein says. “Illumination is always an incredible evening because of the St. Louis community. Our success and innovation in fighting cancer would not be possible without that support.” &

DR. RUSSELL PACHYNSKI

DR. TIMOTHY EBERLEIN

PHOTOS COURTESY THE FOUNDATION FOR BARNES-JEWISH HOSPITAL

city museum

OF THE TOWNS talk

by bill beggs jr.

creve coeur lake

Why recycle when you can upcycle? Edgy, renegade Bay-area artist

Daniel ‘Attaboy’ Seifert and his creations have landed and been reassembled on the fourth floor of City Museum downtown with The Upcycled Garden installation. The exhibit is Attaboy’s ever-growing and touring concept, featuring recycled cardboard, house paint and remnants of items that had been spray-painted. While beautiful and organic on the outside, when many of the pieces are flipped over, they reveal a visual diary of conspicuous consumption that Attaboy uses to create his art—gluten-free pizza cartons, Covid tests, light bulbs, Amazon boxes and other such mundane detritus of everyday life. As ‘they’ say, one man’s trash is another’s treasure. Attaboy kept all this stuff out of the landfill when he started making the art while enduring the pandemic lockdown. There is little-to-no planning while he’s making the pieces, and the artist says his open-ended play of constructing them is soothing. Attaboy could be creating different groupings of the sculptures and wall art even as we speak,

and his installation is set to grow throughout 2024 and beyond. The Upcycled Garden sprouted at a converted mortuary, itself upcycled as an art gallery in Oakland, California, and has been exhibited at: Uma Gallery, The Brea City Gallery, Mainstreet LA, Art Thou Gallery and others before coming to town. It will stay here through June 1, and chances are it won’t be the same collection that arrived. A visit to Attaboy’s The Upcycled Garden, located in the Sullivan Architecture Gallery on the museum’s fourth floor, is included with admission.

“My, my,” one of the best bosses of all time would say as we boarded the elevator to ride four floors to his company headquarters back in the 1990s. Then, Jack Hughes would look you right in the eye and continue, “Some stretch of weather we’re having.” In a town where 40-degree variations in temperature occur from day to day—even between noon and 6 p.m. some days—it was a safe bet that two weeks ago someone would have responded, “Can’t believe it’s February and nearly 75 degrees outside!” The knuckleheads, along with some otherwise normal folks, who made the Polar Plunge last month into the frigid waters of Creve Coeur Lake were lucky it had made it into the high 40s that day, when not too many days before that, county park visitors could toss a heavy stick and watch it bounce on lake ice. Hardy kayakers at that time made like icebreakers in the Arctic, crunching their way through the frozen layer. In these parts, what we do know all too well is that we’ll never know whether the ballgame or concert will be rained out, or whether the half-inch of predicted snow will amount to ankle-deep, knee-deep, a quarter-inch of ice, or bupkis. Anyhow, the polar plungers from throughout the metro took the chilly dip to raise money for the Special Olympics. Whenever the plunge was being planned, of course, no one could’ve predicted what the weather would be like on Feb. 24. The hardy and the nutty, some clad only in swim trunks, others layering Hawaiian leis and grass skirts, went temporarily insane for a very good cause. These are selfless people, the types who take the ice-bucket challenge. It’s all good. Although some participants may have felt like they were suffering from hypothermia, no cases of frostbite were reported.

downtown west

This year marks the 50th anniversary of ON THE WALL’s first mural, Wally the giant butterfly downtown. Robert Fishbone, proprietor of the company, could be considered a touch off the wall. He is to give the weekly High Noon talk March 7 inside the High Low literary arts café’s listening room in the Grand Center Arts District. Fishbone’s to summarize his immense body of work since 1974, when he first started painting urban murals with his late wife, Sarah Linquist. Longtime St. Louis residents will remember “Lindy Squared,” which from a distance was a black-and-white image of Charles Lindbergh but got more and more indistinct the closer you got. Pixilated. The building has since been demolished, as has downtown mall St. Louis Centre, where sections of “Lindy” went for a few years. All this is a backdrop to perhaps Fishbone’s most ambitious project: He’s been tapped to manage restoration of Richard Haas’ iconic “World’s Fair” mural, painted on the west face of the old Edison Bros. warehouse just to the north of I-64 (Hwy. 40). It’s suffered from the elements for 40 years, and the new owners are dedicated to returning it to its original condition as they renovate the entire building. Up to 80% of the brick exterior needs to be tuckpointed before newfangled paint—engineered for the surface to absorb—is applied. Fishbone is loath to give a timeline for the project’s completion. Suffice it to say he’s thrilled to be involved. For a comprehensive portfolio of Fishbone et al. by decade, visit onthewallmurals.com.

LAST ISSUE’S Q & A

BILL BEGGS JR. HAS WORN MANY HATS AT NEWSPAPERS, MAGAZINES AND IN MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS SINCE BEFORE THE ERA OF THE FLOPPY DISC. NOW HE JUST WEARS A HAT TO KEEP HIS BALD SPOT FROM GETTING SUNBURNT. YOU CAN REACH HIM AT WRTRS.BLCK@GMAIL.COM

soulard

The dateline for this feature on Joy Grdnic could also be the Central West End (CWE), because she and husband Ron Stevens are moving this year from the former Nabisco mansion on Westmoreland Place to another stately home, the Arzt house in Soulard, a Victorian jewel that some observers have said looks like the Addams family’s abode And her last name could be Christensen, an old family name she used professionally when she owned and ran The Fountain on Locust. But she doesn’t consider herself a restaurateur, because she knew nothing about cooking or serving food in that fast-paced environment before she started running the place in 2003, but knew plenty about the business when she sold it 19 years later. She’s been married almost 50 years to Stevens, but didn’t take his last name, because Grdnic (pronounced ‘Grid-Nick’) is pretty cool on its own. My wife, Cate Griesedieck, says she’d give her a vowel—Grdnic wouldn’t even have to buy one like contestants on Wheel of Fortune. Grdnic and Stevens were radio personalities here (on KSHE-95) as well as in NYC, L.A. and San Diego… and their syndicated comedy bits aired on 700 U.S. stations, plus stations in Japan and Dubai. Their 1970s LP, Somewhere Over the Radio, was Grammy-nominated for Best Comedy Album; the bit “Fast Food” was a regular selection on Dr. Demento’s radio show and appears on a compilation album along with goofballs such as “Weird Al” Yankovic. She’s bought and sold several buildings in the Locust Business District,

including the one where The Fountain still operates. Another, on the next block along the Lou’s onetime Automotive Row, is home to The Cherry Garage, where son Keaton Christensen is an owner who converts autos from fossil-fuel to electric propulsion. Grdnic admits she could have just started going by Joy, like Cher, Oprah or Madonna. But don’t call Joy a real-estate investor. She giggles over her tiny sundae in our booth at The Fountain “I’ve always developed or restored properties,” she says. “Ron said he never wanted me to go shopping because I’d come home with another building.” OK, then; can we pin her down by high school? Not likely. Raised on a farm in Millstadt, Illinois, she started at Gibault Catholic H.S. in nearby Waterloo. But she graduated over here, from Ladue, which has a more comprehensive art program. So, is she an artist? Yes, if fashionistas count: She wore a cute pink beret at the Fountain, where she received many admirers and former associates during our interview. With all she’s said and done, what best characterizes her? Joy is a comedian. She recently was on the bill at the Sheldon with her husband and John Ulett, KSHE’s ‘U-Man.’ Her slide presentation focused on what scares her: “Not so much climate change, A.I. or bitcoin,” she says. “They’re ALL scary, but I barely got to which can you’re supposed to throw your trash in. And, I mean, there are missing street signs that GPS can’t help with.” Luxury problems, perhaps, but Joy knew how to make them roll in the aisles, I can assure you. &

Joy Grdnic

a real home run!

United Way of Greater St. Louis is partnering with Cardinals great Adam Wainwright and his nonprofit Big League Impact to create volunteer opportunities for MLB players nationwide. “To have a St. Louis legend like Adam Wainwright join forces with our team to get people involved in service to the community is truly a home run,” United Way president and CEO Michelle Tucker says. “Big League Impact and United Way’s goals are perfectly aligned, and this partnership will allow both organizations to expand our outreach and help more people.”

A newly-released evaluation report reveals the impact of Counterpublic 2023. The triennial civic exhibition was one of the largest public art initiatives in the country, taking place over three months and including 36 artist commissions along a six-mile stretch of Jefferson Avenue. The event drew more than 190,000 visitors and is estimated to have had an economic impact of more than $15 million.

K. Hall Studio is partnering with reality star Lindsay Hubbard from Summer House , a Bravo show following a group of friends who share a vacation property in the Hamptons. The new line is set to launch this month as part of its Barr-Co. division.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT KHALLSTUDIO.COM TO LEARN MORE.

PATTY

by patty hannum

MISS ME? Or perhaps you thought Town&Style decided it was time to leash Patty. Nope, I just took a few weeks off for health reasons and am now back to make you laugh each issue.

So, what have I been up to? Avoiding winter.

Yes, my husband and I drove the 20 hours from St. Louis to the Florida Keys with two dogs in the car. Our marriage survived, as did both dogs. For those of you who ever drive that route, can someone tell me who designed the traffic flow in Atlanta so that no matter what time you arrive, you crawl through that major metropolis?

Seriously, it is the most congested place in the country, and everyone who is trying to drive looks like they have smoke coming out of their ears from frustration like cartoon characters. Who knows, maybe we are in some bad Where’s Waldo? game and are never meant to find the end of the puzzle.

As you drive south, a change starts happening. I am not talking about the accents, but rather the

The Muny is partnering with Lexus to elevate the patron experience with the outdoor theater’s reserved parking area now namedthe Lexus VIP Lot. The new partnership also will allow Lexus owners to receive a free seat cushion rental when they present their key fob at the concession stand.

ART SAINT LOUIS’ 28TH ANNUAL “VARSITY ART”

exhibit is on view at its downtown St. Louis Gallery through March 28. The show features works by 39 undergrad and grad level art students representing 21 colleges and universities from Missouri and Illinois. Learn more about this exhibit at artstlouis.org.

PICTURED: SWEET SOUND BY HANNAH SIMPSON OF FONTBONNE UNIVERSITY

number of gas stations that serve food. No, not just Hostess cupcakes but fried chicken, ribs, you name it. Stop and fuel your car and your stomach. I, however, am still too scared to try and eat any of the food. I think your system needs to build up a tolerance before you attempt such a feat. Let me know if you ever tried the food. I am always looking for a challenge, and this month, we are going to be heading home the same route.

Florida has been great and chilly nighttime temperatures have sent iguanas falling out of trees at least twice. It is quite a sight. You can spend your entire life without seeing it, but if you do, well, you laugh. It is also fun to watch the native Floridians get out their polar fleece and Uggs while I am still in my shorts. This year, I made myself promise that I would venture outside at least once a day and not spend an entire twelve hours watching the latest series on the 1,000 streaming services I signed up for. Finnish TV anyone? I really do need to trim back that list.

Hey, did you see that Back Talk has returned?

After seven years of not giving needless advice, Raschelle Burton and I are ready to tackle all the tough issues in your life. Friendship problems? Etiquette questions? Or perhaps you are just looking for two snarky responses that will make you laugh. We are ready for you. I beg of you please send in your questions. If you do not, we will not have a column, and well, I will have one less writing gig. I need all the practice I can get so when I finally write my first ever book it will be award winning because my writing skills will be superior.

I have a big year planned for us. Actually, I don’t. I have no plans, but I am open to any suggestions you might have to tell stories about people and cool places in St. Louis. I read your suggestions and do my best to cover topics you find interesting and, more importantly, funny. Welcome to 2024 my peeps. &

▲ tillman elementary school

Students, families, staff and community members came together to celebrate the completion of construction at the school. Along with eight additional classrooms, the project included a new gym and a library/media center named in memory of long-time teacher Dan Mueller. The former library was converted into counseling offices, which were dedicated in memory of former counselor Andrew Johnson.

HEARD IN HALLS

THE

by stephanie wallace

▶ carr lane visual performing arts middle school ◀

Thanks to the support of the St. Louis Blues and Stifel, the school’s tech lab received a revamp. Along with new computers and classroom furniture, Carr Lane received access to the Blues Future Goals STEM curriculum, and all renovations were completed by St. Louis Blues and Stifel staff volunteers. The renovation is the first in a new program, which will identify one school in the region to receive a technology upgrade each year.

▲ parkway west middle school

The school’s concert orchestra was selected to perform for the annual Missouri Music Educators Association. The group was one of only five from across the state to be chosen, of which only two were at the middle school level. “The students’ hard work and dedication was evident in the high quality of their performance,” director Rebecca Pantano says. “Their willingness to put in the extra effort is commendable, and persevering in the face of the many challenges was truly inspiring!”

kirkwood high school ▶

Congrats to the school’s Robotics Team 23851A! It finished first overall in the skills portion of the VEX competition hosted at Laude Middle School, qualifying for the Missouri VEX High School Championship. The winning team featured Noah Coletti, Lucas Whiteaker and Liam Nixon (pictured from left to right).

▶ ladue horton watkins high school ◀

The school’s student-operated enterprise, the Ladue Ram Shack, was awarded Gold level certification for the school year by DECA’s School-based Enterprise Certification Program. The initiative provides recognition for outstanding achievement by school-based enterprises for marketing, finance, hospitality and management. The Ladue Ram Shack and its team will be recognized during DECA’s International Career Development Conference in Anaheim, California.

PARENT TRAP

by dr. tim jordan

ZIGZAG TO CALLING

J.R. TOLKIEN wrote in The Fellowship of the Ring, “All who wander are not lost.” That sentiment certainly holds true for our young adults.

Girls in my counseling practice, retreats and camps tell me how stressed out they are about their futures. What used to be a common refrain about angst from high schoolers has now filtered all the way down to girls in early grade school. Let me discuss what they share with me.

First, kids absorb a belief from parents, the educational system and the culture that there is one, narrow path to a successful life. Everyone must strive for straight As, gain acceptance to a top college, graduate into a fabulous job making boatloads of money and make it to the top of their career ladder. Unfortunately, this one-size fits all model doesn’t fit the majority of people. In the U.S. today, only around 35% of people 25 years of age and older hold a bachelor’s degree. Young adults tell me they get judged big time if they say they are going to attend a trade school or go into a career such as cosmetology or auto mechanics. We need to affirm the importance of every career.

In addition, teens feel stress and shame when they don’t know what college they want to attend, what major to study or what their career choice is. In his book Dark Horse Project, Todd Rose describes how the old path of having a career goal, putting your nose to the grindstone and climbing the institutional ladder until you someday find success and fulfillment is not accurate. The successful people he studied valued passion, a sense of purpose and, most importantly, fulfillment. It was the pursuit of fulfillment that led to success, not the other way around. It was being deeply engaged in their passions that brought joy and happiness as they were working. These successful people embraced the winding, meandering career path. Their interests and motivations changed over time because they changed. Work preferences and life preferences don’t stay the same because we don’t stay the same. The first step is to prioritize fulfillment; you must honor your deepest yearnings and aspirations.

When young adults see all of the choices and freedoms they have, it brings a sense of excitement but also fear. Freedom means choices but also the knowledge we can mess up our own lives—it is both wonderful and terrifying. You are radically free to both create and ruin your life. You can choose the safe route of doing things to please others or stand out and go against the grain. Teens tell me all of the time that they do not want to settle like they think their parents did, but settling seems safer. It’s the path of least resistance.

I tell young adults that the price of freedom is some uncertainty and some anxiety. There is no pill or cure for this, so they need to learn to embrace these feelings, normalize them and find healthy ways to express them. They’ll also have to learn to live with uncertainty, change and being out of their comfort zone. Parents need to teach kids healthy coping skills, allow them to make mistakes and get frustrated, go through periods of feeling lost or uncertain, and to overcome these challenging times. That’s how they will learn perseverance, resilience and gain confidence.

Kids, teens and young adults need to be educated about pursuing what fulfills them. They need support in acknowledging and embracing the uncertainty and anxiety that comes with freedom and choices. Reading biographies and watching documentaries about successful people can give them the courage to trust that the meandering path will result in their life unfolding in its own unique way and in its own unique time. All who wander truly are not lost and are actually on the road to fulfillment. I’ll leave you with a quote from Steve Chandler to sum it up:

“Listen to the clues. The next time you feel real joy, stop and think. Pay attention. Because joy is the universe’s way of knocking on your mind’s door. Hello in there. Is anyone home? Can I leave a message? Good! The message is that you are happy, and that means that you are in touch with your purpose.”

TIM JORDAN, M.D., IS A BEHAVIORAL PEDIATRICIAN WHO COUNSELS GIRLS AGED GRADE SCHOOL THRU COLLEGE. LISTEN TO HIS WEEKLY PODCAST, RAISING DAUGHTERS, TO GAIN INFORMATION ON RAISING STRONG, RESILIENT GIRLS. FOR MORE INFO ON DR. JORDAN’S RETREATS, SUMMER CAMPS AND BOOKS VISIT DRTIMJORDAN.COM.

COMMUNITY SCHOOL

Community School’s preschool programs provide a balance of developmentally appropriate work and play, setting the foundation for children to become active problem solvers and critical thinkers. The 7:1 student-teacher ratio allows for personalized support as children fall in love with learning.

900 LAY ROAD | 314.991.0005 | COMMUNITYSCHOOL.COM

FORSYTH SCHOOL

Forsyth School fosters a spirit of curiosity and joy, empowering children age 2 through grade six to pursue challenges with confidence. Forsyth’s one-of-a-kind campus and engaging curriculum promote age-appropriate independence and prepare students to thrive in secondary school and beyond.

6235 WYDOWN BLVD. | 314.726.4542 | FORSYTHSCHOOL.ORG

ROSSMAN SCHOOL

An education from Rossman is designed to prepare children for their next steps in life and let them explore the limitless possibilities ahead. Rossman is a small community that embraces childhood and brings out the unique strengths of each child.

12660 CONWAY ROAD | 314.434.5877 | ROSSMANSCHOOL.ORG

THE WILSON SCHOOL

The Wilson School has over a century of experience in early childhood education. Starting at age 3, children enjoy the benefits of being in an elementary school setting, which includes a balanced curriculum and regular visits to music, art, French, library and P.E. specialists.

400 DE MUN AVE. | 314.725.4999 | WILSONSCHOOL.COM

kids' CORNER

LIST:

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

with the impactful

of women who made their mark on the world.

SHARK LADY: THE TRUE STORY OF HOW EUGENIE CLARK BECAME THE OCEAN’S MOST FEARLESS SCIENTIST BY JESS KEATING

ILLUSTRATIONS BY MARTA ÁLVAREZ

MIGUÉNS

A critically acclaimed zoologist tells the story of Eugenie Clark, also known as “Shark Lady” Growing up, Clark fell in love with the sharks at her local aquarium. Determined to study them, she first had to disprove common fears and misconceptions about sharks while also showing that women could be scientists.

SHINING STAR: THE ANNA MAY WONG STORY BY PAULA YOO

ILLUSTRATIONS BY LIN WANG

Anna May Wong grew up working in her family’s laundry in Los Angeles’ Chinatown, but her true passion was cinema. In the 1930s, she pursued an acting career, fighting against limited opportunities and stereotypical roles for Asian Americans, eventually becoming the first Chinese American movie star.

WHO SAYS WOMEN CAN’T BE DOCTORS?: THE STORY OF ELIZABETH BLACKWELL

BY TANYA LEE STONE

ILLUSTRATIONS BY MARJORIE

PRICEMAN

Elizabeth Blackwell grew up in the 1830s when career options for women were extremely limited, and the common belief was that they were not smart enough for medical careers. Blackwell, however, persisted against opposition, graduating from medical school and becoming a successful doctor.

PLANTING STORIES: THE LIFE OF LIBRARIAN AND STORYTELLER PURA BELPRÉ BY ANIKA ALDAMUY DENISE

ILLUSTRATIONS BY PAOLA

ESCOBAR

When Pura Belpré came to America in 1921, she brought with her the culture and storytelling of Puerto Rico. She found work as a librarian at the New York Public Library and used her skills as a storyteller and puppeteer to become a champion for bilingual literature.

MAE AMONG THE STARS BY RODA AHMED

ILLUSTRATIONS BY

STASIA

BURRINGTON

This book shares with young readers the story of Mae Jemison, the first African American woman to travel to space. Jemison’s story is a great illustration of how if you believe in yourself and work hard, anything is possible.

MARCH 20

MAJOR PLAYERS

APRIL 3

MISSION POSSIBLE

APRIL 17

SENIOR STYLE

BEAUTIFUL

bonus section: Leaders in StL STAYING

bonus section: Noteworthy special rate: Specialists in Health

T & S SPRING MARKET

bonus sections: New on the Market, The Guide: Home

bonus section: Nonprofit News special rate: Mission with Purpose

MIND BODY SPIRIT

bonus section: Noteworthy

bonus section: Summer Activities Guide special rate: Power Partners

bonus section: Senior-Style Living

CURB APPEAL

bonus section: Ask the Agent

bonus sections: Noteworthy, Profiles in Education, Trusted Advisers, Tee Time Events

SPRING FOR A CAUSE

SPECIAL SECTION

SPRING FOR A cause

COVER STORY PLAY ON

ST. LOUIS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

by stephanie wallace

HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSON once wrote, “When words fail, music speaks.” It’s the perfect illustration of just how powerful an artform music can be—it transcends language and provides a universal voice that is capable of reaching anyone. As the second oldest orchestra in the nation, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO) has been striving to ensure that the creation and enjoyment of music is a fundamental part of the local community for 144 years. It is dedicated to enriching lives through performances, educational programs and community connection.

On May 3, the SLSO is hosting its Gala Celebration at Stifel Theatre. The event will be a unique opportunity for St. Louisans as it will include a concert featuring the orchestra alongside globally renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma led by music director Stéphane Denève. “It really is an honor to have Ma perform with our symphony,” says Jo Ann Taylor Kindle, who is serving as the gala’s co-chair alongside Penny Pennington and Mike Fidler. “It will be a very exciting evening.”

Kindle has been an avid supporter of the SLSO for more than 25 years. “My father came to me about getting involved because the symphony was having financial issues,” she recalls. “It’s such an important part of St. Louis, and I wanted to help. Working with the board, I put together a group of people to figure out what needed to be done. The question was whether we wanted a nice local symphony or a world-class one. The SLSO opted to become the latter.”

Part of the SLSO’s growth has been its commitment to improving access to the arts through outreach, including free and discounted performances. The SymphonyCares program allows members to perform for individuals who cannot travel, such as cancer patients or residents in assisted living communities. The Music Without Boundaries program provides access to symphony performances for immigrants and refugees. The SLSO also is dedicated to musical education, offering programs for students and training

St. Louis Ovarian Cancer Awareness

LIVING OUT LOUD GALA & AUCTION

Saturday April 20, 2024

Celebrate and support the work of SLOCA, dedicated to impacting ovarian cancer survivorship by promoting awareness of early warning signs, funding ovarian cancer research, and supporting survivors.

Co-chaired by Jen Marks and Kim Carney, the evening will be sure to inspire with our Survivor Speaker, Louise O’Farrell, and the return of KSDK’s Rene Knott as auctioneer and emcee. Help us toast our Teal Spirit Award recipient, Melanie Clark, and end the evening with laughter with a performance from nationally recognized comedian, Greg Warren

CO-CHAIRS PENNY

AND

opportunities for teachers. “In a year, the orchestra reaches more than 80,000 local students and provides more than 3,300 free tickets,” Kindle says.

One of the SLSO’s major initiatives is the current renovation and expansion being done at Powell Hall. Built in 1925, the building has served as the home of the orchestra since 1968. “It’s a very beautiful but very old building,” Kindle notes. “It lacked both rehearsal spaces and areas for teaching classes for young musicians.” Construction began in 2023 and includes the addition of a 65,000-square foot expansion while preserving the historic character and celebrated acoustics of the building. The revitalized Powell Hall is planned to open to the public in 2025, just in time for its 100th anniversary.

Without the support of the community, the symphony’s mission and programming would not be possible. “The SLSO is one of St. Louis’ oldest cultural institutions,” Kindle notes. “It has developed into an internationally recognized orchestra with a visionary music director. Everyone should take the opportunity to experience it at least once. After hearing a concert, you’ll be hooked.” &

THE ST. LOUIS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA’S GALA CELEBRATION MAY 3 AT STIFEL THEATRE INCLUDES A CONCERT WITH STAR CELLIST YO-YO MA.

PICTURED ON THE COVER, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: MUSIC DIRECTOR

STÉPHANE DENÈVE, PRESIDENT AND CEO MARIE-HÉLÈNE BERNARD, GALA CO-CHAIRS PENNY PENNINGTON AND JO ANN TAYLOR KINDLE. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL 314.286.4441 OR VISIT SLSO.ORG.

COVER DESIGN BY JULIE STREILER | COVER PHOTO BY TIM PARKER PHOTOGRAPHY

SPRING FOR A CAUSE SPECIAL SECTION

You won’t want to miss this, get your tickets today, available now at sloca.org!

Saturday, April 20 | 5:30 pm – 10:00 pm Meadowbrook Country Club

200 Meadowbrook Country Club Estates Ballwin, MO 63011

Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, call 314-966-7562 or visit sloca.org

Jen Marks, Kim Carney

Louise O’Farrell Rene Knott Melanie Clark Greg Warren

PHOTO: TIM PARKER PHOTOGRAPHY

GALA CELEBRATION

PENNINGTON

JO ANN TAYLOR KINDLE

meet the chairs: Mark Menghini and Colby Schmid

Why is this nonprofit important to you?

Finding cures to debilitating neurological disorders is important to everyone. Unfortunately, all of us have been personally touched by a loved one’s struggles with disorders like Parkinson’s, ALS, Alzheimer’s and many others. For too long, many of us have heard “there is no cure” or “there is no hope”—those words are unacceptable. By raising money for the Hope Center at Washington University, Hope Happens is working to flip that tired script.

What will this event accomplish for the organization?

Our Evening of Hope looks to accomplish three primary goals: raise awareness, raise engagement, raise funds. If successful, this event will not only check all three of those boxes, but also set the stage for many continued years of this historically successful event. The funds raised by this event have an immediate real-world impact by providing dedicated Hope Center researchers with the unfettered ability to explore novel cures to neurological disorders.

MISSION STATEMENT: Hope Happens’ mission is to improve the quality of life for individuals with neurological disorders by inspiring collaborative research to find cures, providing hope to everyone afflicted with or connected to a neurological disease.

Event Details

DATE: April 20

LOCATION: The Hall at Olive + Oak

CONTACT INFO: 314.725.3888, wendy@hopehappens.org

MARK MENGHINI AND COLBY SCHMID

SPRING FOR A cause

GIVING BACK Stomp the World

by stephanie wallace

What is the mission of Stomp the World?

Our goal is to provide educational and life experiences outside of the classroom. We work with kids in preschool through high school. For early childhood, that means movement and dance classes that help them build important skills we hope they can carry to elementary school and beyond. For older students, we offer tutoring and after school programs as well as organizing local and out-of-town field trips.

Where did the idea come from?

I’m a teacher, and after talking with other educators who have worked in urban school districts, we realized many of our students hadn’t had the opportunity to experience things outside of their own neighborhoods. Originally, it started with the dream of facilitating global field trips so students could learn more about the world, but as often happens, the reality of money set in. We decided to focus on giving them new experiences right here in St. Louis, and we’ve also had some trips to other cities. The name Stomp the World comes from that founding desire to get kids out of their neighborhoods to experience the world.

LEARNING SHOULD NEVER BE LIMITED to the classroom—exposure to new and different things can provide some of life’s greatest lessons. That idea is fundamental to the mission of Stomp the World. Created by local educators, the nonprofit serves students in preschool through high school in the greater St. Louis area through dance and movement classes, tutoring, after school programming and field trips. We talked to founder and executive director Mark Cohen about how Stomp the World brings exciting new experiences to local students.

How did your experience as an educator shape Stomp the World?

I’ve gone on a lot of field trips as an educator. I know what students typically get to experience. Some of them are fun and eventful, but I just wanted to be able to take it a step further. For example, I’ve always wanted to have my students experience the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee. Through Stomp the World, we’ve gotten to take students to the museum. Working with kids, sometimes it’s surprising to learn what they haven’t been exposed to. Even something as simple as going to a Cardinals game can offer something new. Our after school program also developed from experience in education. There are so many great programs out there, and knowing what they have to offer from a teacher’s perspective provided insight into what Stomp the World could do to bring different opportunities.

How has your programming evolved?

The original idea was to do field trips, but we found a challenge in working with children who weren’t our own students. Without that connection, there was no reason for parents to want to send their children on a trip. We developed tutoring and after school programs to make that connection

with families and find participants so we could offer the experiences we originally planned.

Are there any initiatives you’d like to spotlight?

Our early childhood movement program has really taken off. It started because our assistant director, Kevin Lee, has a dance background. He was leading classes in schools, and after talking with early childhood educators, we created our own curriculum that incorporates conscious discipline and self regulation. We now work in several early childhood centers in the St. Louis areas. The kids love it. We usually visit once a week, and they’re always excited to see someone from Stomp the World.

How can people support Stomp the World?

We are basically an all volunteer-run organization. While we do receive some small grants, we are definitely grassroots and rely on the generosity of people through donations and fundraisers. We also have a need for volunteers. Our tutors are all teachers or retired teachers, and they volunteer their time. We’re always looking for people to help out with that. &

PHOTOS COURTESY OF STOMP THE WORLD

special section

SNAPPED!

ST. LOUIS AQUARIUM FOUNDATION

splash bash

by bill barrett

At this carnival by the sea inspired event, guests enjoyed food stations, drinks, roaming entertainment and music. The event supports the H2O Friends program, which ensures more children and families can access the aquarium by working with schools and partner organizations. guests: Event co-chairs Stephanie and Alex Lee, Rebecca and John Sheehan; honorary chairs Steve O’Loughlin and Bob O’Loughlin; executive director Tami Brown

ever ing SENIOR special section SENIOR living SPRING FOR A cause

2024 St. Louis Bach Festival

Bach at the Bistro

APRIL 16 TH | 6 PM

Brandenburg Concertos

APRIL 20 TH | 3 PM

Free Education Concert

APRIL 23 RD | 10 AM

Young Artist Showcase

APRIL 28 TH | 4 PM

Community Spring Sing

MAY 4 TH | 11 AM

The Heart of Bach

MAY 19 TH | 3 PM

THOM AND JANE SEHNERT, KATHY AND BOB O’LOUGHLIN

REBECCA AND JOHN SHEEHAN ALISA AND BILL VAN GELS

VICTORIA AND SID AMBORT BABETTE AND DAVID MEINERS

STEVE O’LOUGHLIN, TAMI BROWN RICH AND JULIE FITZER, STEPHANIE AND ALEX LEE

Entirely volunteer-led, Assistance League uses its philanthropic programs to make a tangible difference in the community. As one of its largest annual fundraisers, the Imagine! Gala supports that mission. This year, guests were invited to don their country finest and enjoy a Rhinestone Cowboy themed evening emceed by Rene Knott. President Denise McKibben, president-elect Sandy Thal, event co-chairs Lynne Turley and Sue Graham

DEBBIE AND FRED MCCONNELL

DEBBIE AND GREGORY BEILE

DIANA STEWART, MARIE WIESE, LINDA SMITH

KAREN NIEDRINGHAUS, SUE GRELLE

DENISE MCKIBBEN, SANDY THAL

THE BLACK AND WHITE BALL

by diane anderson

For the first time since 2016, The Black and White Ball returned to the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis. Hosted by Grammy Award-winning rapper and entrepreneur Nelly, the gala benefitted Make-A-Wish and a scholarship fund for students to attend Harris-Stowe State University. Guests enjoyed performances from Wyclef Jean, Ashanti, Jermaine Dupri, Monica, Bow Wow and Nelly, among others. The Black and White Ball Legend Award was presented to hall of famer Ozzie Smith.

NELLY HAYNES, ASHANTI, RAIN DAVILA, ISAAC KEYS

JON JAY, KORTNIE AND JIM EDMONDS

CASSANDRA LLEA,

DEE DEE JAMES OZZIE YOLONDASMITH,LANKFORD

MELANIE JOHNSON, MIKE CLAIBORNE

Help

4.6

19TH ANNUAL AUTHORS BRUNCH

Assistance League of St. Louis Marriott St. Louis West | 10 a.m. 636.227.6200 | alstl.org

A GLAMOROUS NIGHT - THE SHELDON GALA

The Sheldon Arts Foundation

The Sheldon 314.533.9900 | thesheldon.org

4.10

75TH ANNIVERSARY: 75 YEARS OF CITIZEN DIPLOMACY World Affairs Council of St. Louis Missouri History Museum | 5:30 p.m. 314.727.9988 | worldaffairsstl.org

4.16

2023 ST. LOUIS BACH FESTIVAL

The Bach Society of Saint Louis Various locations 314.652.BACH (2224) | bachsociety.org

4.20

SPRING FLING

Longmeadow Rescue Ranch 480 Josephs Road | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 636.583.8759 | longmeadowrescueranch.org

LIVING OUT LOUD GALA & AUCTION

St. Louis Ovarian Cancer Awareness

Meadowbrook Country Club | 5:30 p.m. 314.966.7562 | sloca.org

18TH ANNUAL EVENING OF HOPE

Hope Happens for Neurological Disorders

The Hall at Olive + Oak | 6 p.m. 314.725.3888 | hopehappens.org

5.1

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH Independence Center Independence Center 314.533.4245 | independencecenter.org

5.3

ST. LOUIS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA GALA CELEBRATION

St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Stifel Theatre | 5:30pm 314.286.4441 | slso.org

6.24

THE JIM BUTLER MEMORIAL GOLF CLASSIC Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis Norwood Hills Country Club | 11 a.m. 314.335.8009 | support.bgcstl.org

Nonprofit News

ever ing SENIOR special section SENIOR living SPRING FOR A cause hello!

1. The Bach Society of Saint Louis

Calling music lovers near and far, let’s come together and celebrate the extraordinary legacy of J.S. Bach! The 2024 St. Louis Bach Festival unites our community through the universal language of music. No matter your age or background, there’s something for you to enjoy!

9450 CLAYTON ROAD | 314.652.BACH (2224) | BACHSOCIETY.ORG/FESTIVAL

2. Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis will offer summer camps at several locations for kids ages 6 to 18 in Missouri and Illinois. For more information, visit bgcstl.org or call 314.335.8000. In Illinois, call 618.377.6030.

314.335.8009 | BGCSTL.ORG

3. Fantastic Finds Resale Shop

Fantastic Finds is an upscale resale store that offers high-quality clothing, accessories, home decor and more. Run entirely by Assistance League of St. Louis volunteers, every purchase supports St. Louisans in need, making a positive impact in our community.

12778 OLIVE BLVD. | 314.579.9500 | ALSTL.ORG

4. Hope Happens for Neurological Disorders

Hope Happens fundraising goes directly to the Hope Center for Neurological Disorders at Washington University to support research that illuminates biological mechanisms and possible therapies.

117 N. KIRKWOOD ROAD, STE. 201 | 314.725.3888 | HOPEHAPPENS.ORG

5. Humane Society of Missouri

Donate today to our Spay Neuter Incentive Program (SNIP). Help provide low-cost spaying and neutering to control the pet population and keep our community safe.

314.951.1542 | HSMO.ORG/GIVESNIP

6. Independence Center

Thank you, St. Louis! This year’s Dancing with the St. Louis Stars was an overwhelming success! More than $650,000 was raised supporting our programs for St. Louisans managing serious mental illness.

4245 FOREST PARK AVE. | 314.533.4245 | INDEPENDENCECENTER.ORG

7. The Sheldon Arts Foundation

Join us for “A Glamorous Night” as The Sheldon celebrates 35 vibrant years of music, art and community at its Gala on April 6 featuring Sheila E. The event is chaired by Carol and Ward Klein.

3648 WASHINGTON BLVD. | 314.533.9900 | THESHELDON.ORG

8. St. Louis Ovarian Cancer Awareness

SLOCA is committed to increasing ovarian cancer survivorship by promoting awareness of early warning signs, funding ovarian cancer research and supporting survivors.

12015 MANCHESTER ROAD, STE. 130 | 314.966.7562 | SLOCA.ORG

9. St. Louis Symphony Orchestra

Join us for an elegant soirée to celebrate the power of music. This extraordinary evening showcases the remarkable artistry of renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma and the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra.

718 N. GRAND BLVD. | 314.286.4441 | SLSO.ORG/GALA

10. World Affairs Council of St. Louis

The World Affairs Council of St. Louis is dedicated to promoting global awareness and understanding. Since 1948, we have been connecting St. Louis to the world and the world to St. Louis through educational programs, cultural and professional exchanges and promoting international relationships.

314.727.9988 | WORLDAFFAIRSSTL.ORG

75 Years of Citizen Diplomacy in St. Louis

Celebrating 75TH

PHOTO BY SUZY GORMAN

TO THE WORLD

IN 1948, THE WORLD AFFAIRS COUNCIL OF ST. LOUIS was established to promote understanding and engagement in global affairs. More than seven decades later, the nonprofit remains dedicated to connecting St. Louis to the world—and to introducing the world to St. Louis. The local organization is one of 90 that comprise the World Affairs Councils of America. Its mission is to deepen the global perspective of communities through speaker programs, discussion groups and educational experiences.

The local World Affairs Council was founded shortly after World War II by a group of prominent St. Louisans, including Arthur Compton, Nobel Prize winner and Washington University Chancellor; Morton May, chairman of May Department Stores and co-founder of The Muny; James S. McDonnell, founder of McDonnell Aircraft; and Leo C. Fuller and Sydney Baer, founders of Stix, Baer and Fuller. Their goal was to educate people about world affairs to encourage cooperation between nations. “The mission is just as relevant today as it was in the late 1940s,” says board member Donna Kirtian. “It’s important for American citizens to have a global perspective and an understanding of what is happening in the world. The council works to educate and inform while also remaining above political differences.”

One of The World Affairs Council’s key initiatives is the International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP), which is a partnership with the U.S. State Department. The program brings current and emerging foreign leaders to St. Louis for short-term visits, and the council facilitates events and discourse with local businesses, nonprofits and governmental agencies. Last year, the nonprofit hosted 161 international visitors from 74 different countries. “We’re always looking for people to host small groups of visitors for dinners in their homes,” Kirtian explains. “We like to say that our citizen diplomats connect the world at our dinner tables.”

Most of The World Affairs Council’s programming is open to the public. It has sponsored initiatives on a variety of topics, including cybersecurity, agriculture, health and economics. The nonprofit also is dedicated to instilling global awareness in the next generation. It hosts the Academic WorldQuest competition, which tests high school students on their knowledge of important issues. The winning local team is sent to Washington D.C. to compete nationally. “We also have a robust internship program and host networking events for students with international interest,” Kirtian adds. “We are always looking for additional ways to connect with and inspire young St. Louisans.”

The World Affairs Council’s 75th Anniversary Celebration will be held April 10 at the Missouri History Museum. The evening will include a fireside chat led by Missouri Historical Society president and CEO Jody Sowell and featuring Gavin Sundwall, a managing director with the U.S. Department of State, and two St. Louisans: former Ambassador to Ireland Kevin O’Malley and W. Stuart Symington, former Ambassador to Nigeria, Rwanda and Djibouti. “We will be celebrating our long history of citizen diplomacy,” Kirtian says. “In the Midwest, it can be easy to focus on our own day-to-day issues, but the council will continue to provide St. Louisans opportunities to broaden their perspectives.” &

INTERNATIONAL VISITORS FIND JOY IN ST. LOUIS.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WORLD AFFAIRS COUNCIL OF ST. LOUIS

APRO NOM ICS

by stephanie wallace | photos: bill barrett

BRIANNA VELARDE GREW UP moving often. As a military kid, she lived in places across the country, including in Hawaii, and even spent time in Germany. After graduating from college, she settled in St. Louis. Since she was young, she had an interest in opening her own tea shop. “Drinking coffee has never worked out that well for me—I just love tea,” she explains. “I always had a dream of opening a tea shop after I retired. Around 2022, I started wondering why wait. I might as well try it now while I’m young and energetic.” That idea grew in Chimera Teas, which is offering a plant-based, electric menu of refreshments in Tower Grove East.

Chimera Teas got its start at the Tower Grove Farmers’ Market. “I first fell in love with the market as a customer,” Velarde says. “I thought it would be a great place to dip my toes in. I could do it on the weekends and not have to quit my day job. It seemed accessible, and the farmers market was already an awesome part of my life.” With a starting plan in place, the next step would be to figure out how to source the tea. One of Velarde’s biggest concerns was finding distributors to work with that could provide a sustainably grown and ethically sourced product. “I wanted to make sure I was doing things the right way, so I worked with the Ethical Tea Partnership,” she notes “I tried a lot of tea. I wanted to create a menu with a great breadth of flavor and unique offerings.”

When it came to find a name for the business, Velarde had a plan for that as well. “I kind of stole it from my partner,” she admits. “They wanted to start a vegan cheese company and came up with the Chimera name but ultimately decided to abandon the idea for the time, so I took it for myself. It’s a bit of a joke. In mythology, a chimera is a mashup of different animals, and we’re plant-based, no animals involved. Also since I grew up all over, I got to see different cultures, and I wanted to bring that to my business by sourcing tea from all over. We’re also a bit of a chimera because there’s a mashup of influences, and the cafe is a wild, eclectic mix.”

Chimera Teas opened as a Tower Grove Farmers’ Market vendor for the 2023 season. Velarde had a projection in mind of what building a customer base would look like, but she was surprised by how quickly it took off. “From the first day, we blew

PEANUT BUTTER JELLY THUMBPRINT COOKIES

• 1 C. CHUNKY PEANUT BUTTER

• 1 C. SUGAR

• 4 TBSP. MILK, ROOM TEMPERATURE

• 2 TSP. VANILLA EXTRACT

• 120 G. FLOUR

• 1 TSP. BAKING SODA

• ¹ 8 TSP. SALT

• STRAWBERRY JELLY

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Sift flour, salt, and baking soda in a bowl.

3. Mix all other ingredients (except jelly) in a stand mixer until combined.

4. Add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

5. Scoop dough onto a parchmentlined baking sheet.

6. Use the back end of a small spoon, or your thumb, to make an

BRIANNA VELARDE OF CHIMERA TEAS

my expectations out of the water,” she says. “It was amazing to see the community keep coming out to support us throughout the season.” Velarde’s original plan had been to operate Chimera Teas at the farmers market for a few seasons before looking for a brick-and-mortar location. Thanks to the business’ runaway success, she was able to make her dream of tea shop come true much sooner than expected.

“We were really lucky in finding the perfect space for us—it was an opportunity that I couldn’t pass up,” Velarde says. That ideal location was 3149 Shenandoah Ave., the former home of Kitchen House Coffee. Thanks to the space’s previous life as a coffee house, the transition into Chimera Teas was a smooth one, with little change being necessary to get the back of house operational. “It was a surprise how attainable and doable it seemed,” Velarde notes. “The biggest change we had to make was to the aesthetic. It was urban farm themed, which wasn’t the vibe we were looking for. We took all of that and gutted it. We wanted the cafe to be bright and airy with a touch of the natural and mystical.”

The new location gave Velarde the chance to expand Chimera Teas’ menu. Working out of the farmers market, the offerings had to be more limited, changing each month. Now, more drinks could have a permanent place on the menu and new seasonal flavors could be added. “We’re now offering Blueprint Coffee and espresso-based drinks—we’re being inclusive of all the coffee drinkers in the neighborhood who miss Kitchen House Coffee,” she adds. “The food menu also is all new. Along with standard bakery items, we have steamed buns with international influences and a hummus plate. I’m really into mixing and matching small plates, so that’s kind of a theme.”

Velarde is excited to continue to grow Chimera Teas. She is working with creators to decorate the walls with local art and has plans for the addition of chimera-themed murals. The tea shop also will host more events, including live music and tarot card readings. “My goal is to make this a fun community space,” she explains. “Chimera Teas is still really new, and we’re looking forward to people coming out and getting to know us.” &

indent in the top of the cookies about halfway down through the dough, shaping dough around the indent to be bird’s nest shaped.

7. Fill this indent with a spoonful of strawberry jelly.

8. Bake for 12 minutes.

9. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for five minutes after baking, and remove to wire racks to cool completely.

DRIVEN

MASERATI GRECALE

by robert w. paster

SUV’S SEEM TO BE EVERYWHERE THESE DAYS, but prices, performance and luxury levels run the gambit from economical basic transportation to sports car performance and extravagant luxury. An example of the latter is the new Maserati Grecale, a mid-sized SUV with Maserati performance and luxury built into its DNA.

The Grecale offers attractive Italian styling starting with a large gaping grill centered on the classic Maserati Trident, leading to a sloping hood with distinctive character lines, a sloping roofline and a sharply raked rear hatch.

Once in the Grecale, you’re greeted with rich leather throughout the cabin, including on the moderately bolstered heated and cooled 14-way power front seats with driver memory. The gauge cluster in front of the driver is all digital, but displays an “analogue” tachometer and speedometer, with a variety of other information and displays surrounding the two gauges. The digital speedometer at the top of the cluster is informative and helpful at a glance. It also has a heated steering wheel and a large dual-pane sunroof to let in some light. Driver’s aids include a blind spot sensor with lane keeping assist, a back-up camera, pedestrian recognition and adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors with rear active braking, and a pre-collision warning system with visual and audible warnings and emergency braking.

In back is a nice large heated rear seat that folds 40/20/40, with plenty of legroom and its own air vents and USB ports. The cargo area is surprisingly roomy and can carry a lot under its tonneau cover, but the sharply raked rear roof impinges on the height of items that can be carried in the cargo area. The hatch is electric and opens and closes at the touch of a button.

The Grecale offers Apple car play and Android connections, but there are no knobs for audio volume or tuning. Volume is controlled by a haptic slide button on the center screen that is difficult to control while moving. Luxury amenities include a power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, tri-zone automatic climate control, memory seats, keyless entry and rain sensing speed sensitive windshield wipers. The engine start/stop button is on a small wheel in the steering wheel, as is a similar one that chooses the driving mode: off-road, comfort, GT, sport and corsa (race). The steering wheel mounted paddle shifter, however, tends to get in the way of the turn signal stalk right behind it.

Navigation, phone, media and vehicle information reside on the top half of the large center screen, with the transmission buttons in the middle and the ventilation controls on the bottom, which tilts out towards the cabin. To operate the heated or cooled seats or the heated steering wheel you have to go through several screen functions, which can take multiple push attempts to execute because the touch screen can be a bit finicky. Light controls are at the bottom of the screen, not on a steering wheel stalk or the dashboard, so they’re a little unusual to find, especially if entering in the dark. Electric buttons open the doors, but there is a redundant pull latch if an electric button fails.

The Grecale offers really fast acceleration thanks to its Ferrari derived turbo V-6, which is placed far back in the engine compartment to optimize front to back weight distribution, which in turn enhances handling. Combined with good brakes, paddle shifters for the automatic transmission and a nice firm ride, it performs and handles very well for an SUV. You can feel the Maserati heritage in its suspension. Steering is nice and tight, especially at higher speeds and in sport mode. If you have to drive an SUV, the Grecale at least offers a motoring enthusiast a taste of performance and driving fun not found in most other large vehicles. The triumphant roar of the engine is symphonic and adds a fantastic aural beauty to the experience, one that will be missed when electric vehicles rule the streets.

Max Hefele, sales executive at Jim Butler Maserati, says, “The Grecale is a great vehicle for everyday use. It’s fun to drive and has an upgraded interior in addition to being one of the fastest SUV’s around.” &

technicals »

PRICE:

▶

▶

▶

DRIVETRAIN:

QUICK BITES

by stephanie wallace

LUCKY NO. SEVEN

Vicia is celebrating its seventh anniversary with a new a la carte menu. The new dining experience will allow guests to explore a greater variety of dishes than its Farmers Feast format, which provided diners with an entirely chef-curated experience. “We are thrilled to be updating the Vicia experience and providing our guests with what we believe is our most vibrant, creative and fun dining option to-date,” executive chef Michael Gallina says. The new menu will launch in April.

EAT, DRINK + GIVE BACK

On March 27, head to The Fountain on Locust to support Circus Harmony. Whether you’re interested in some world famous dill pickle soup or an ice cream martini, 15% of all orders from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. will go toward supporting the nonprofit’s scholarship fund. Reservations can be made by emailing develop@circusharmony.org.

GOAL!

St. Louis City SC has unveiled the lineup of CityPark restaurant partners for the 2024 MLS season. The new additions include Olive + Oak, Olio, Sunday Best, Seoul Taco, Medina Mediterranean Grill, Saucy Porka and Donut Drive-In. Also arriving at the stadium, expanded mobile order-ahead options, a dedicated concession for allergen-free dishes, and increased offering of vegetarian, budget-friendly and kids’ options.

TOTAL ECLIPSE

OPENS CLOSES &

Looking for some ’za? Pizza

Via, the latest from Scott Sandler of Pizzeoli and Pizza Head, is expected to open next month in the CWE at 4501 Maryland Ave. … Oats & Honey will add some spice to brunch with a fusion of traditional American breakfast foods and Latin cuisine. The restaurant is opening up this month at 624 New Ballas Road in Creve Coeur. … Chesterfield is home to a new upscale Indian option with Amrut Fusion, which is now open in the former home of the Old Spaghetti Factory at 17392 Chesterfield Airport Road. … Just months after closing its Delmar Loop location, Chicken Out has stopped service at its remaining restaurant in Kirkwood. The chicken sandwich spot originally launched in 2020. … Sunday Best in the Central West End has closed. Formerly Juniper, the new concept opened in August.

Schlafly Beer is helping St. Louisans get ready for the spring solar eclipse on April 8 by offering a spring variety pack centered on the celestial event. The pack, called Throwing Shade, includes four different brew varieties: Eclipse IPA, Totality Black Lager, Passion Fruit Galaxy Wheat and Shadow Bands Pilsner. “We know that the spring solar eclipse will bring people together around the country to witness this phenomenal event, and we want to be a part of those celebrations,” CEO David Schlafly explains. “The pack also showcases the talents of our brewers in offering great beers in a variety of styles from light to dark beers.” &

GUT CHECK

BY STEPHANIE WALLACE

Go with your gut—it’s not an uncommon piece of advice, and it may be more pertinent to your overall wellness than you realize. Your gastrointestinal system is home to trillions of microorganisms, known as your gut microbiome. They may be small, but they have a big impact on your body and health.

WHAT IS THE GUT MICROBIOME?

Your gut is its own ecosystem of living microorganisms, including species of bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. Everyone’s gut microbiome is unique to them. Infants inherit their first microbes from their mother in the birth canal and through breastfeeding. Later, environmental factors and diet expose people to new microorganisms that can either be beneficial or harmful.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

You have a symbiotic relationship with most of the microbes in your gut. That means it’s mutually beneficial. You provide food and a place to live for the microbiota, and the helpful ones do important work in your body. One of their tasks is keeping more harmful, or pathogenic, microorganisms in check.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN SOMETHING DISRUPTS THE GUT MICROBIOME?

In a healthy body, there is a balance between symbiotic and pathogenic microbes. When that balance is disrupted, it’s known as dysbiosis. This occurs when the bad microorganisms start to

overwhelm the good or the overall diversity in gut microbiome decreases. Typical symptoms include gas, bloatedness, poor digestion, lower abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation. In many cases of dysbiosis, the symptoms are mild, and your body can correct the imbalance on its own. Serious cases may require diagnosis and treatment from a medical professional.

DOES WHAT I EAT HAVE AN IMPACT?

Fiber plays an important role in what microorganisms are part of your gut microbiome. Dietary fiber can only be broken down and digested with the assistance of the microbiota living in your colon—without them, you wouldn’t get some essential nutrients. The process creates short-chain fatty acids that lower the pH inside your gut, which favors more beneficial microbes and hinders the growth of harmful ones. Conversely, sugar and saturated fats tend to allow less helpful microorganisms to thrive. Studies suggest that certain animal products like red meat and dairy also promote unhealthier gut species. Certain additives and preservatives found in processed food also may be harmful to your gut microbiome.

WHAT FOODS SHOULD I EAT TO SUPPORT A HEALTHY GUT?

Research indicates that unprocessed, plant-based foods are most beneficial to your gut microbiome. These include fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains. These foods are sometimes known as prebiotics because they feed the bacteria in your colon. Fish and eggs also have been shown to have a favorable impact on helpful microbes. The unprocessed nature of foods is an important factor. Even if something is completely plant-based, if it is highly processed, it will likely not offer as much support to healthy microbiota.

HOW DOES MY GUT MICROBIOME IMPACT THE REST OF THE BODY?

Your gut is actually the largest organ in your immune system—it contains around 80% of your body’s immune cells. These help clear out pathogens every day. The short-chain fatty acids created by symbiotic microbes also help by supporting your gut barrier, which keeps bacteria and toxins from escaping into your bloodstream. Your gut microbiome also plays a role in your nervous system because of the gastrointestinal system’s connections to the brain,

and certain bacteria actually produce or stimulate the production of neurotransmitters.

WHAT ROLE DO PROBIOTICS PLAY?

Probiotics naturally contain microbiota—whether coming from food or a supplement. More research is necessary to understand what benefits probiotics have for everyday digestive health, especially in supplement form. However, they may be more useful for children and older adults when the gut microbiome is less robust. Since most probiotics are sold as supplements, they are not regulated by the F.D.A., and companies are not required to disclose information on quality.

CAN I GET PROBIOTICS FROM FOOD?

Yes, you can find beneficial live microbiota in food. Common probiotic foods include those that are fermented, such as pickled vegetables, yogurt with live active cultures, kombucha, kimchi, miso and sauerkraut. &

SOURCES: CLEVELAND CLINIC,

HARVARD T.H. CHAN SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH

SENIOR LIVING

SPECIAL SECTION

LIVE WELL

THE GATESWORTH

by stephanie wallace

FOR OLDER ADULTS AND THEIR FAMILIES, it can be difficult to find a balance between maintaining independence and ensuring peace of mind. That was the exact struggle Susan Wham found herself facing with her family. She didn’t want to let retirement slow her down, and her son wanted to ensure she was well cared for. The family found their solution in The Gatesworth. The senior living community offers residents innovative services and amenities to ensure they remain active, happy and comfortable.

Originally from California, Wham attended San José State University and studied education. She worked as a teacher before meeting her future husband. The couple was married for 60 years, 30 of which Wham spent as a military wife. “It was a fabulous experience,” she says. “My family got to travel, and I was nominated for Military Spouse of the Year twice. When my husband retired, we settled in Mountain Home, Arkansas, and I decided I wanted to work again. I became a trust officer at a bank. Working was a lot of fun, but I chose to retire again once my grandchildren started arriving.”

Following the death of her husband, Wham’s son wanted her to move to St. Louis to be closer to him and his family. She agreed to look at senior living communities and toured three, including The Gateworth. At the time, she decided the move wasn’t right for her and opted to return to Mountain Home where she continued to live for a year and half. “My son called me and told me that it was time,” she explains. “My response was that the only place I could see myself living was The Gatesworth. It’s beautiful, but more importantly, it’s full of wonderful people—staff and residents alike.”

Nearly a year later, Wham could not be more thrilled with her decision. The Gatesworth keeps her engaged with a wide variety of activities and opportunities to explore St. Louis. She plays bridge, sings in the choir, enjoys group exercise classes and even picked up painting. “We are having an art show soon,” she adds. “I don’t have a car, but I also enjoy going on day trips. The staff ensures I can get to wherever I want to go. It’s so easy to stay

RESIDENT SUSAN WHAM

busy at The Gatesworth with all of the options. I have a friend who is even going to start teaching a French class. If you can name it, it’s here for the taking.”

The sense of community that drew Wham to The Gatesworth continues to be a highlight of her life there. “I’ve asked a wide variety of people what makes The Gatesworth so special, and the answer is almost always the same: the people,” she says. “Everyone is so friendly and open, and after talking with them every day, I’ve heard so many interesting stories. Whenever I need help, someone is there. It truly is a delight to live here.” &

SENIOR LIVING SPECIAL SECTION

LOCATED AT ONE MCKNIGHT PLACE, THE GATESWORTH OFFERS RESIDENTS A WIDE VARIETY OF INNOVATIVE SERVICES AND AMENITIES SO THEY CAN LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST. PICTURED ON THE COVER: RESIDENT SUSAN WHAM. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL 314.993.0111 OR VISIT THEGATESWORTH.COM.

COVER DESIGN COURTESY OF THE GATESWORTH

COVER PHOTO BY GREGG GOLDMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Celebrating 35 Years of Exceptional Senior Living

The Gatesworth provides the perfect canvas to enjoy life your way. Living in an exquisitely appointed apartment surrounded by beautiful, lush grounds, you’ll feel inspired to pursue new interests, expand your knowledge, build friendships and embrace your independence.

WHAT DOES THE GATESWORTH MEAN TO YOU? community

The Gatesworth means a new and productive life with new friends and that I never have to be alone again. There is wonderful food and energy throughout this place. I love the staff — they make us feel so special! — JACKIE BROWN

PHOTO: GREGG GOLDMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

ever ing

Brooking Park

At Brooking Park we take the stress out of understanding your options because we offer a full continuum of personalized, quality care, all under one roof. Within our community, we offer:

• ASSISTED LIVING

• MEMORY CARE

• LONG TERM CARE

• SKILLED REHAB

This makes a move to Brooking Park your best choice in many ways. It’s a smart financial decision as we offer an all-inclusive rate with no worrisome level of care fees. Our personalized assistance is offered in a beautiful, bright, comfortable setting that you can enjoy for days to come. All this while lowering your stress level knowing you or your loved one will never have to make another move.

So WORRY LESS at Brooking Park

A member of the St. Andrews Resources for Seniors System A trusted non-profit, faith-based organization

WHO’S WHO IN SR LIVING

Andy Schenck | Owner ACCESSIBLE HOME HEALTH CARE OF ST. LOUIS

Andy Schenck is the owner of Accessible Home Health Care. His care team includes R.N. supervisors, CNAs, DSPs and home health aides. Andy and his team are compassionate and offer the highest quality care available.

443 N. New Ballas Road, Ste. 23 | 314.738.9979 accessiblestl.com

307

Peggy Keith | Executive Director

CREVE COEUR ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE

For more than 30 years, Peggy Keith has been the heart and soul of senior care in St. Louis. As both a nurse and administrator, she's woven into the fabric of seniors' lives. Her care and leadership ignite a spark within residents, helping them rediscover their stories and create a vibrant community filled with purpose and vitality.

693 Decker Lane | 314.997.4532 crevecoeurassistedliving.com

We have 26 years of eldercare experience, helping care for individuals and families who desire care in their home or a home environment.

12882 Manchester Road, Ste. 201 314.686.4468

familypartnershome.com

After serving with the U.S. Army Medical Service Corps, Terry Walsh went on to launch a successful national senior living organization. His broad experience across the health care spectrum helps residents make the most of their senior years.

15201 Olive Blvd. | 636.898.8500

12563 Village Circle Drive | 314.270.7700 friendshipvillagestl.com

The Gatesworth’s award-winning executive chef, Brian Hardy, and his staff are committed to providing residents and guests with an exceptional dining experience combined with a generous measure of attentive service.

One McKnight Place 314.993.0111

thegatesworth.com

Barth Holohan FAMILY PARTNERS HOME

Terry Walsh | President and CEO FRIENDSHIP VILLAGE SENIOR SERVICES

Brian Hardy, CEC | Executive Chef THE GATESWORTH

Live Spiritually

At Friendship Village, Easter is a season of spiritual reflection and renewal. Experience uplifting worship services in our chapel or invite friends and family to enjoy spring blooms on our resort-style campus.

Speak to a Senior Living Specialist today and see how memories are made at Friendship Village.

Chesterfield: (636) 898-8500

Sunset Hills: (314) 270-7700

FriendshipVillageSTL.com

ideas for

• May is National Bike Month, so take advantage of the warmer weather and enjoy a bike ride. It’s a great way to help build your strength and endurance.

• Working in a garden can get you outside while also keeping your body moving through lifting and bending. If you are interested in growing your own fruits and vegetables, you can start as early as mid-March and continue through the summer.

• Spring cleaning is an opportunity for physical activity. Make it less of a chore by doing it with someone else or incorporating upbeat music.

Stay Motivated, Stay Active

BY STEPHANIE WALLACE

No matter your age, exercise can have big benefits, but for older adults, building new, healthier habits can be tricky. From physical limitations to busy schedules, there can be a lot of roadblocks to adding more activity to your daily routine. The key to success is to find what works for you and stay motivated.

Make Exercise a Social Activity

Social support is a great way to help make lifestyle changes stick. If you have an exercise buddy, you can help keep each other accountable and motivated. Working out with others also can make exercise more enjoyable. You can sign up for a gym or exercise class with a friend or family member. If a more structured workout experience isn’t for you, consider starting a walking group with friends or even coworkers—you can use your lunch break to get outside. Playing with your kids or grandchildren also can keep you moving, and family gatherings are great opportunities for team sports and outdoor activities.

Track Your Progress

Stay focused by measuring your successes. Find a physical activity plan that works for you and monitor your progress with it. Try to incorporate the four major types of exercise: strength, endurance, balance and flexibility. For example, when building flexibility, pick something simple like how far you can reach to touch your toes before you feel a stretch. Monitor how that changes. As you build stamina, find new ways to increase your physical activity. Look for how you’ve made progress, and use those successes to update your plan.

Reward Yourself for Staying Active

Rewards should be part of your exercise plan. They’ll help keep you motivated by allowing you to work towards something tangible. When making your plan, pick a goal and something you will do for yourself once it’s achieved. For example, you might want to complete a 20-mile bike ride. Once you’ve done it, treat yourself to something like a massage or a visit to a spa. Take time to celebrate your success.

Fit Physical Activity into Your Daily Routine

Want to make a lasting change to your routine?

Make exercise convenient by incorporating it into your daily routine. That will help you build a habit. Focus on tasks you already have to do that have a physical component, such as walking the dog or even cleaning the house. If your schedule won’t allow you to dedicate a large block of time to exercise daily, find smaller periods that will work. For example, if you don’t have 30 minutes, look for three 10 minute periods. You also can make small changes to your routine that will add up to more exercise. When out and about, park further away so you have to walk more, and choose to take the stairs over the elevator.

Don’t Let Fatigue Stop You

A major roadblock to physical activity is that it can be tiring, especially when you’re first starting out. But the truth is regular moderate exercise will actually help you feel less fatigued in the long run. Physical activity sends oxygen and nutrients to your tissues, helping your cardiovascular system work more efficiently. Along with having big benefits for your heart and lung health, this will give you a boost of energy.

Make It Fun!

No two people’s interests are the same, and that includes how they exercise. You might enjoy walking on a treadmill at the gym, or you could find that kind of activity boring and prefer to walk in the park. While those two activities are similar, picking the one that is more enjoyable to you personally means you’re more likely to stick with it. Picking a variety of activities also can keep you engaged, so don’t be afraid to try new things and get creative. Sign up for a dance class or find a friend to play pickleball with. Stick with what you find fun, and move on from what doesn’t work for you. &

Premier Memory Care in St. Louis

Meet Me Where I Am... at Lilac Trace

Lilac Trace is Bridge Senior Living’s specialized Memory Care program. It was created through the years of Memory Care experience our collective team possesses, from individual caregivers at each community to our executive team members.

Our Lilac Trace neighborhoods are designed to offer holistic support that celebrates each resident’s story through personalized Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care.

HealthFlash

by stephanie wallace

ACCESS FOR CANCER PATIENTS

Thanks to a new partnership with integrated research organization Circuit Clinical, SSM Health is making it easier and faster for patients to participate in oncology trials and clinical research in Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma and Wisconsin. More than 65,000 cancer patients are treated by the health care system annually, and patients will now be able to participate in oncology trials where they already receive care. This includes communities where clinical trials have historically been unavailable. “This collaboration furthers SSM Health’s Mission of bringing exceptional health care services to all people— especially those most in need—by bringing investigative treatments to our broad network of community-based health settings, while contributing to research that could lead to new medicines and devices becoming more broadly available,” vice president of oncology Dr. George Daneker says.

UNDERSTANDING RADIATION THERAPY

Washington University School of Medicine is joining a national network of centers working to understand the biologic effects of radiation therapy. The new radiation oncology center will be named the MicroEnvironment and Tumor Effects of Radiotherapy Center (METEOR). The university received a $7.8 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to support the center. Researchers at METEOR will investigate how radiation therapy influences tumor biology and the impact on surrounding immune cells in patients with pancreatic and cervical cancer. As one of five centers in the Radiation Oncology-Biology Integration Network, it will be able to compare the impact of various treatment regimens and hopefully answer long-held questions about radiation therapy.

VACCINE RESEARCH

Saint Louis University is part of a new trial to develop a vaccine for COVID-19 and flu. The study will look at whether the two vaccines can be combined into a single shot without affecting the antibody response to either. The trial is being conducted at more than 200 sites across the country. “Since it looks like COVID will be with us for the long haul, just as flu is, it’s important to see if we can combine both vaccines into one shot without compromising immunity of both,” says Dr. Sarah George, professor of infectious diseases and a researcher in the university’s Vaccine Center. “It’s vital that we continue to work to develop combined vaccines that can protect all of us, especially the vulnerable, from these illnesses.”

ALZHEIMER’S ADVANCES

New research from Washington University School of Medicine in partnership with Lund University in Sweden has demonstrated that a simple blood test may be as effective at identifying the molecular signs of Alzheimer’s disease as cerebrospinal fluid tests. The test works by measuring the levels of Alzheimer’s proteins in the blood and is a less expensive and invasive alternative to the brain scans and spinal taps currently used to diagnose the disease. It also can detect signs of Alzheimer’s before symptoms start. “The accuracy of this blood test now enables us to diagnose the presence of Alzheimer’s disease pathology with a single blood sample,” says co-senior author Dr. Randall J. Bateman, the Charles F. and Joanne Knight Distinguished Professor of Neurology. “This advance will increase accurate diagnoses for many patients.”

[HOME]

HOMEWORK

DEAR HOMEWORK,

Since moving in a couple of years ago, we have focused on updating the interior of our home, as well as replacing the roof and windows. Now, we would like to redo the landscaping and driveway. What would you suggest to update the feel of the house while maintaining its classic style?

Thanks for your help,

DEAR UPDATING A CLASSIC,

—UPDATING A CLASSIC

You raise an interesting question. Your home already is a handsome example of southern Colonial style, so how do we update it? My thought would be to make it even more ‘classical’ with changes to the architecture and landscape.

First, I would change the colors. Paint all of the white trim a warm, stone color and paint the brick a shade darker. Next, remove the shutters and install carved stone plaques between the windows. This makes the windows look much taller and more elegant. The monochromatic color scheme gives a calmer, more current feel, as does painting the windows, front door and ornaments black.

The landscape shows a drive court framed with a very formal evergreen hedge and a new center walkway to the street. The existing, rather wild trees have been replaced with a new row of maples. The symmetry and architectural nature of the plantings act as an extension of the style of the house. To me, there is now a bold simplicity to the overall presentation that makes us look at southern Colonial with fresh eyes.

Thanks for the interesting problem,

HOMEWORK &

HOMEWORK WAS PENNED BY THE LATE PAUL DOERNER, FOUNDING PARTNER OF THE LAWRENCE GROUP. TO CELEBRATE HIS LEGACY, T&S IS PULLING SOME OF HIS OLDER COLUMNS FROM THE ARCHIVES TO SHARE.

Spectacular home situated on a beautifully wooded lot in the heart of Frontenac. A 2-story Entry Hall with beautiful archways & palladian windows opens to the Living & Dining room with soaring ceiling, stunning mantel, built-in bookcases, French doors opening to the patio & pool creating a dynamic first impression. A well designed open floor plan with defined living spaces creates the perfect flow for those who love to entertain while still offering spaces that promote more intimate get-togethers.

7601 SHIRLEY DRIVE,

9 DEACON DRIVE, KIRKWOOD

4969 PERSHING PLACE

35 Loren Woods Drve

1325 Spring Snow Drive

198 Mad River Lane

1037 Speckledwood Manor

636 Wyndview Drve

7542

6291 Magnolia Aveue

NEW LISTING

49 Kingsbury Place

Born out of Hollywood’s golden age of the 1930s, Hollywood Regency interior design is all about glitz and glamor. It was inspired by the homes and estates of the actors and actresses skyrocketing to fame at the time. Hollywood Regency is typified by the work of designers like William Haines, who decorated the homes of stars including Joan Crawford and Frank Sinatra, and Dorothy Draper, whose anti-minimalist approach became the definition of the style.

Hollywood Regency’s popularity is bookend by Art Deco and Mid Century Modern design, and it shares some overlap with both. Like Art Deco, it has a focus on bold color, metallics, pattern and a sense of glamor, but Hollywood Regency is more eclectic and playful. While the opulence of the style may seem completely at odds with Mid Century Modern, the two have a similar approach to furniture silhouettes as they favor slim profiles. However, while Mid Century Modern focuses on natural wood tones, Hollywood Regency is all about gloss and shine.

the hallmarks of hollywood regency design

Hollywood regency is all about maximalism—after all, it’s an aesthetic primarily defined by the grandeur of celebrity and cinema. Gilded elements, marble surfaces and luxurious fabrics just scratch the surface of how the style emphasizes glamor.

◀ Layered, textured design elements

◀ Black and white, especially in checkerboard flooring

◀ Mirrored and metallic finishes

◀ Blocks of contrasting color or patterns

◀ Oversized art prints

◀ Rococo-style furniture, such as slipper chairs and skirted sofas

◀ Chinoiserie elements like room dividers or bamboo detailing

◀ Ornate chandeliers how to introduce it in your home

While it may be nice to consider living like a movie star, most modern homes probably aren’t suited for the complete Hollywood Regency treatment. However, glamorous details and gilded touches can be a great way to introduce the style into your space in a way that is harmonious with a modern lifestyle.

◀ Keep your walls and floors neutral, and then add more glam accents to create a more balanced look.

◀ Be bold with color. Popular hues of the time include hot pink, turquoise and yellow. Also, don’t be afraid to pair them.

◀ Incorporate patterns, but use them smartly. Choose two to pair together or one with bright accents to create a pop that doesn’t overpower the senses.

◀ Bring in metallic accessories and finishes. The sunburst mirror is a hallmark of Hollywood Regency, and it’s easy to introduce into almost any space in your home—whether you’re looking to glam up your bedroom, a powder room or a living space.

◀ Mix luxurious textiles like velvet, silk and fur—or faux fur.

◀Lacquered surfaces are the central element of Hollywood Regency. Consider bringing it into your home through an element like a credenza or coffee table, or go smaller with accessories. Whatever you pick, bright and glossy is a must. &

Tips For Spring De

By Stephanie Wallace

Spring is a season of fresh starts, and when it comes to our homes, that often means cleaning … and decluttering. We accumulate a lot without realizing it, and taking the time to clear the objects that don’t get regular use can refresh and renew our spaces. We’ve got some tips to help you clear that clutter so only the best is left.

20/20 Rule

This rule was created by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus of The Minimalists—you may know them from their Netflix special. When considering whether or not to get rid of an item, ask yourself two questions: Can I replace this for under $20, and can I do so in less than 20 minutes. Keeping the number 20 in mind means you won’t throw away or donate something you’ll feel too guilty about—after all, it’s easily replaceable. Not everything under $20 necessarily needs to go, just the items you aren’t using regularly.

12-12-12 Challenge

This decluttering and organizing method was created by Joshua Becker of Becoming Minimalist. It requires you to choose a room or space in your home and then find 12 items to throw away, 12 items to donate and 12 items to return to their proper place. Setting a specific goal to work toward helps you keep focused, while also putting a manageable target on the task. If you don’t know where to start decluttering, try applying this challenge to a room or even just a bookcase. If the number 12 is too daunting at the beginning, start smaller with three or five items in each category, and work from there.

80/20 Rule

This guideline comes from the idea that we use 20% of what we own 80% of the time. It’s an extension of the Pareto Principle, a mathematical concept that says 80% of outcomes come from 20% of causes. Applying it to decluttering, you can determine what of that unused 80% can be stored or gotten rid of. Plus, while it may seem simpler to keep math out of your cleaning, the rule actually can make tackling your home less daunting. By focusing on cleaning the high-use 20% regularly, you keep your spaces looking tidier between big cleans.

Five a Day Method

This approach is all about being slow and steady. Developed as a personal challenge by Julia Williamson (she even created a blog, Today I Threw Away …, to monitor her progress), the Five a Day method requires you to find five items to throw away or donate every day. You don’t have to stop at five if there is more you want to clear from your home, but every day, you need to have at least five. Rather than relying on bursts of motivation to keep your house decluttered, this is a more committed, ongoing approach.

Five Second Rule

No, this isn’t about dropping food on the floor. In decluttering, the five second rule uses the impact of adding a countdown to encourage decision making. You should be able to look at an item and decide within five seconds if you want to keep, donate or throw it away. By putting a time limit on the choice, you are pushed into action. In an alternative version of this rule, you can use the five-second limit to ask yourself the last time you used the item. If you can’t come up with the answer in time, it’s probably a good option to donate or throw away.

KonMari Method

Marie Kondo is probably the biggest name in home organization—who hasn’t asked themselves if an item still “sparks joy?”

While there is more to her KonMari method of decluttering than we can outline here, some important takeaways include tackling your home all at once to avoid slipping back into bad habits and avoiding storage as a solution, since it simply offers the illusion of decluttering without removing items. Kondo also recommends working by item category instead of location. For example, if you’ve got clothing in a closet, dresser and storage bin, work through it all simultaneously to better take stock of what you have.

The Hanger Test

Clearing out your wardrobe can be a daunting task, but in reality, our old friend the Pareto Principle applies here as well—we wear about 20% of our clothes 80% of the time. Not sure what you wear most often?

The hanger test is here to help when it comes to your closet. Turn all the hangers opposite of how you normally hang them. Over six months, whenever you wear an item of clothing, put it back in facing the normal direction. You’ll then be able to see the items of clothing that you don’t wear regularly.

63124

29 Black Creek Lane

$1,375,000 | Pr/SqFt: $331.01

Janet McAfee Real Estate

Agent: Wayne Norwood

10 Upper Warson Road

$268.43

EXP Realty

Agents: The Gellman Team

439 Lee Ave.

$875,000 | Pr/SqFt: $354.39

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Alliance Real Estate

Agent: Lizz James

63124

16 Salem Estates Drive

$868,000 | Pr/SqFt: $287.61

Janet McAfee Real Estate

Agent: Lisa Coulter

1 Sumac Lane

$1,125,000 | Pr/SqFt: $324.30

Coldwell Banker Realty - Gundaker

$5,250,000 | Pr/SqFt: $533.16

Dielmann Sotheby’s International Realty

Agents: Stephanie Oliver and Esther Cohen

63130

6827 Pershing Ave.

$650,000 | Pr/SqFt: $240.65

Janet McAfee Real Estate

Agent: Beth Schultz

63131

2233 Croydon Walk

$650,000 | Pr/SqFt: $293.72

Janet McAfee Real Estate

Agent: Suzie Beachem

758 Stump Court

$667,300 | Pr/SqFt: $272.81

Realty Shop STL

Agent: Jordan Gorecki

2020 S. Mason Road

$1,044,000 | Pr/SqFt: $260.67

Dielmann Sotheby’s International Realty

Agent: Ted Wight

5 W. Point Lane

$1,360,000 | Pr/SqFt: $423.41

Gladys Manion Real Estate

Agents: Manzer | Klages

12 Fordyce Manor Drive

$2,200,000 | Pr/SqFt: $381.48

Coldwell Banker Premier Group

Agents: Shakofsky Drury Real Estate

63132

9330 Old Bonhomme Road

$1,295,000 | Pr/SqFt: $332.05

Coldwell Banker

Realty - Gundaker

Agent: Steven Mathes

63141

309 Carlyle Lake Drive

$625,000 | Pr/SqFt: $208.82

Gladys Manion Real Estate

Agents: Manzer | Klages

37 W. White Bridge Lane

$725,000 | Pr/SqFt: $196.21

Janet McAfee Real Estate

Agent: Ryan Goldstein

47 Ladue Estates Drive

$925,000 | Pr/SqFt: $273.51

Berkshire Hathaway

HomeServices Alliance

Agent: Steven Mathes

Real Estate

Agent: Berkley Land