Town & Style 4.5.23

TOWN TALK

IN THE

by stephanie wallace

saint louis zoo

Bye bye, Ben. After escaping from the zoo twice, the Andean bear will be transferred to the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, Texas.

st. louis symphony orchestra

The orchestra’s Symphony Volunteer Association has been selected by The Volunteer Council of the League of American Orchestras to receive a Gold Award for its Picture the Music program. The initiative inspires students to harness the power of creative expression in a cross-curricular art competition inspired by orchestral music.

st. louis society for the design and visually impaired

The society selected Dr. Russell Van Gelder as the recipient of the Leslie Dana Gold Medal Award. A former Washington University faculty member, Gelder’s research interests include molecular diagnostics for infectious eye disease and vision restoration technologies.

COCA’S MISSION IS TO ENRICH LIVES AND BUILD COMMUNITY THROUGH THE ARTS. ITS COCACABANA 2023: ELECTRIC OASIS FUNDRAISER WILL BE APRIL 28. PICTURED ON THE COVER (IN SEATED AND STANDING PAIRS): LYDIA AND JOSH BLEDSOE, BETSY AND COLIN TONEY, TIFFANY AND BILL BRADLEY, ELIZABETH AND TYLER CAIN. FOR TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION, VISIT COCASTL.ORG OR EMAIL VIRGINIA HOWELL AT VHOWELL@COCASTL.ORG. COVER

webster university

The university recently hosted its eighth annual Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Conference, with keynote speaker Michelle Zauner (pictured at right with chancellor Elizabeth Stroble), best-selling author and lead vocalist of Japanese Breakfast.

THE FACES BEHIND THE SCENE

ART ACCESS FOR ALL

COCA

by stephanie wallace

SPRING IS AN EXCITING SEASON AT COCA. Along with a full slate of upcoming performances and classes, the arts organization recently welcomed Indigo K. Sams as its new CEO and president. Sams actually began her professional career at COCA, rising to become the director of community services. She left to continue serving St. Louis through other opportunities but is thrilled to be back and is excited to celebrate with the community during the annual COCAcabana fundraiser.

This year’s event will be held April 28 at COCA. The presenting sponsor is Stifel, and Anheuser-Busch is the bar sponsor. In celebration of the vibrant and creative community the organization fosters, the theme of the event is Electric Oasis. “Our students are always growing and glowing,” explains Viriginia Howell, director of individual and corporate engagement. “We hope that is true not only for them, but everyone who visits COCA. Our doors are always open, and we want people to take the opportunity to explore the arts and spread them throughout the community.” COCA’s campus will transform into an oasis of plants, neon colors and bright lights. Guests will enjoy an electrifying meal from Butler’s Pantry, and the evening will end with a silent disco, featuring DJ Alexis Tucci.

The Catherine B. Berges Theatre will host student performances and the auction. “It’s a beautiful, state-of-the art space, and we’re excited to share it with the community,” Sams says. The event also will welcome back West African dance company Afriky Lolo for a performance. The live auction will include items like an Aurora Borealis viewing trip, tickets to Taylor Swift and a bourbon and bonfire meet and greet with Cole Hauser, who plays Rip Wheeler on Yellowstone. Guests at the VIP Champagne bar will have the opportunity to participate in a raffle for bracelets designed by Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers exclusively for COCA.

COCAcabana is the nonprofit’s largest annual fundraiser. It plays a crucial role in ensuring the arts in St. Louis remain accessible to everyone. “I’m looking forward to improving both the equity and impact across COCA’s programming,” Sams notes. “Our goal is to meet St. Louisans where they are so that COCA can become a hub for the community. We never turn anyone away because of the inability to pay.” The funds raised by the event will go toward providing financial support for students, including those who will be attending the upcoming summer camp session.

The success of COCA’s mission is evident in this year’s alumni chair, Rodney Hamilton. A St. Louis native, he began dance training at COCA when he was 10 years old and, at the age 14, started his professional career by performing at The Muny. After attending Julliard, he served as a principal dancer at Ballet Hispánico of New York for 10 years and is now dedicated to training the next generation of dancers. “I’m looking forward to seeing Rodney shine on the stage again,” Sams says. “One of the most beautiful things about COCAcabana is the support that the community gives to providing opportunities for young people, so that they can begin their artistic journey.” &

COCACABANA ALUMNI CHAIR RODNEY HAMILTON

COVER STORY

OF THE TOWNS talk

by bill beggs jr.

Creve coeur

Officially, the Vietnam War came to an end 50 years ago. U.S. soldiers left after more than 20 years of military assistance and eight years of direct combat that left more than 58,000 American names etched on a memorial in Washington. The hostilities also killed an estimated 791,000 to 1.14 million Vietnamese soldiers and civilians. The beautiful Southeast Asian country is now a major tourist destination, but in 1973, it was reeling from the bloody, toxic morass that three decades of political turbulence and armed conflict had wrought. To mark the 50th anniversary of the war’s end, journalist and historian George Black released The Long Reckoning: A Story of War, Peace, and Redemption in Vietnam. Black will appear April 10 at 7 p.m. at the JCC’s Staenberg Family Center / Mirowitz Performing Arts Center, at 2 Millstone Campus Drive. The program is free and open to the public, and books will be available for purchase. Black says the American war in Vietnam left many deep scars that have yet to be sufficiently examined, much less healed—the worst damage inflicted in a tiny area bounded by the demilitarized zone between North and South Vietnam and the Ho Chi Minh Trail in neighboring Laos, which suffered the most intensive aerial bombing campaign in history, the massive use of toxic chemicals and the heaviest casualties on both sides. Against such a horrific backdrop, Black recounts an inspirational true story of the veterans, scientists, U.S. pacifists and their Vietnamese partners who wielded moral authority and scientific and political ingenuity to ameliorate the horrors the protracted conflict left behind. Their intersecting stories illuminate reconciliation and personal redemption, all embedded in a vivid portrait of today’s Vietnam. It’s a sobering account of the startling collisions between past and present.

st. louis

Updates on two wildly divergent topics in the StL previously covered: a renegade bear and two South Korean automakers. Ben, the 300-pound Andean bear (aka spectacled bear), who’s managed to escape captivity at Saint Louis Zoo to freely wander the grounds, is to be transferred to another zoo, where Ben’s enclosure will be surrounded by a moat. Quite the escape artist, Ben has managed to wriggle free twice despite workers reinforcing his enclosure to prevent his escape. The facilities seem entirely suitable, although Ben obviously is smarter than the average bear and may feel he’s entitled to more than the … please forgive us … bear necessities. Now, to the Hyundai and Kia story, which is about keeping sneaky creeps from getting into cars not their own and driving off to who knows where. The City of St. Louis has filed a lawsuit against the companies, whose cars started being stolen at an alarming rate once a thief posted a video on TikTok last summer illustrating how to bypass the ignition using only a screwdriver and USB cable. It went viral, of course. Hyundai and Kia thefts skyrocketed nationwide, including in St. Louis city and county, and owners saw their insurance rates head skyward as well, all because the car companies failed to install an anti-theft device. The city is seeking “in excess of $75,000”—plus attorney fees and expenses—euphemistic language for hella cash. Mayor Tishaura O. Jones pointed out that some of the stolen vehicles have crashed, causing at least one fatality and damaging property both private and public. Car thieves don’t care how they drive. And on the other side of the globe, Hyundai and Kia also seem like they couldn’t care less, having so far reacted to legal threats from the StL with a shrug.

forest park

Looks nice, smells awful. A perennial favorite of landscapers to plant around medical buildings, the Bradford pear tree is really more trouble than it’s worth. Not only do its lovely blossoms have the noxious odor of a kitty’s litter box in dire need of emptying, but the trees are terribly fragile—Bradford pears start quivering from the roots up even before a thunderstorm shows up on radar. Once at a wedding reception under nasty weather at DeMenil Mansion, near the A-B brewery, we came out after a storm, startled to see several Bradford pears along the street had given up the ghost. One had snapped in two, with the larger piece landing on the car right in front of mine. Conservationists say they’re invasive, which is why two rows of the nuisance trees have been removed at Forest Park, to be replaced with magnolias. These sturdier trees also have beautiful blossoms, but their fragrance also can be a bit off-putting. To some noses, a stand of magnolias can be overwhelming—imagine your 4-year-old niece sprayed an entire bottle of grandma’s Chanel No. 5 on herself. She thinks she smells glorious while everyone else is about to pass out. Good on Forest Park Forever for replacing the annoying flora, which have a life span of no more than 20 years before artlessly collapsing across someone’s expensive SUV. They were imported from China. Plus, once established, a stand of them can crowd out everything else in, like, 15 minutes or so—just after you get back from break, look … there’s more. Here’s another reason to wear one of those masks left over from the pandemic: Bradford pears are blossoming all over.

LAST ISSUE’S Q

& A

WHAT ARE THE NAMES TODAY OF SAIGON AND HANOI, FORMER CAPITALS, RESPECTIVELY, OF SOUTH AND NORTH VIETNAM?

In sports, when not referring to when a Cardinals player hurls a ball from the mound toward the opposing batter, what on earth is a pitch? And, from whence did the term originate? (Hint: It’s a noun.) It’s a soccer field. The term originates from another sport played throughout the former British empire— India, most notably. Why; it’s cricket, by cracky!

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

“I don’t even have the words to tell you how much this camp has meant to my daughter and us! Highly recommend, don’t wait!”

westport

Want a little Second City or SNL-type entertainment? That is, where expecting the unexpected is not only expected but you yourself might be invited to participate, competing for real prizes? Then you’re probably up for the world premiere of Broke: The Game Show Show at Westport Playhouse, which will debut April 14. What to expect: Four witty performers working from a loose script, but improvising throughout this ‘show within a show,’ so the Saturday night show will be at least a little, and maybe a whole lot, different than it was the night before. And the next weekend? All bets are off.

“I love improv, because it’s different every time,” says cast member Ashley Rube. “It’s like building an airplane while you’re flying it.” We improvised coffee at Sweetwaters in The Grove, not far from her home, in another eclectic neighborhood a stone’s throw from Missouri Botanical Garden. On the faculty at The Improv Shop Training Center, Rube lives and breathes improv. What would you expect from someone with a bachelor’s in literature and a master’s in theological studies who spent a year working on a dairy farm? Rather than a digression, milking cows and making cheese has been an invaluable component of a life made up as she’s gone along, focusing on doing the next right thing for her fellow performers and her community. A native of South Carolina, she’s worked in publishing, nonprofit advocacy—and done stand up, here, at Mizzou and in Nashville, to name a few. Meanwhile, while it’s obvious she doesn’t take herself too seriously, she’s very serious about her art form. A commercial actor, teacher, and writer, Rube offers performance and applied improvisation workshops to actors, improv teams, high school and college kids—and businesses. Businesses? Workers excel when they collaborate. Plus, how about having to describe yourself in little more than 30 seconds? Yikes! Well, the ‘elevator speech’ is a tried-and-true impromptu skill touted by life coaches and employment counselors. As for performance art: “I try to make it less ‘precious’,” she says. “The most precious thing is the person next to me on stage. Am I taking care of them, and are we having fun together?”

Rube performs monthly as a member of several independent and Improv Shop house teams. Musical improv is a specialty. Once during a song, her voice cracked. Her director remembers it as a pivotal moment. She made it work, folding the glitch into her performance. “If you must fail, fail forward!” she says, with a laugh. (Not surprisingly, Ashley Rube is an easy laugher.) In a bit of synchronicity while your scribe was at the counter toning down his ultra-sweet Vietnamese brew, Ryan Myers—her improv partner, fellow educator and cast member (they’re two of four), came over from working on a laptop. He could have been at any number of places, says Rube with a smile. She was remarkably serene, considering their first rehearsal was that night. That’s OK. She knew she’d be able to make it happen, on the spot. Broke! runs April 14 to May 6—Friday and Saturday nights only, at 7:30 p.m. For ticket information, visit westportplay.com. &

Ashley Rube

The Sarah Bernard Team

RED KEY REALTY LEADERS

“Real estate is more about running a business versus showing homes,” luxury home expert Sarah Bernard notes. “To be successful, you have to build your team, embrace technology and keep training.” With a focus on helping clients maximize the value of their homes and have a positive experience, whether buying or selling a home, Bernard carries this message to her team and her business clients.

Sarah Bernard manages one of the top St Louis real estate teams under the brokerage RedKey Realty Leaders. The team consists of real estate agents and marketing staff who provide their clients with better service throughout the transaction. In addition, Bernard also manages a vacation rental business and is considered one of the earliest leaders in short-term rentals in the St. Louis marketplace.

Bernard credits her business acumen to her stints in the corporate world, and to her education at Washington University where she earned an MBA. An avid believer in continuing education, one of her biggest pleasures is watching the intellectual growth of her team. She calls days in the office working together “a mini business school.” Under Bernard’s leadership, it’s important that team members share their knowledge with each other. Her team members function as partners and their success is one of her primary objectives.

To provide state-of-the-art service to clients Bernard and her team also advocate the use of technology. “There’s new and better technology emerging all the time,” she says. “We embrace it to help our clients be better real estate consumers.”

Bernard’s team focuses on providing seamless transactions and educating their clients on the market and how to buy and sell their homes. Realizing that most people only do so once a decade on average, there’s always an opportunity to help clients through the process. “We focus on prioritizing our work,” Bernard says. “Everyone’s schedule is adaptable to whatever happens on a particular day, but you have to start out with a game plan.” They also manage client expectations as they try to keep as much stress as possible out of the home buying and selling timeline, often a demanding and emotional process.

As part of her leadership style, Bernard both receives and provides training. She is a real estate coach to agents throughout the country, meeting with them each month to build business management skills, not just closing sales. Without that solid foundation, even the most gifted salespeople won’t be successful.

Both fun and fearless, Bernard is up for just about any challenge. The unflinching perspective of her team allows them to embrace change and keep discovering new and better ways to service clients. There’s a spark in Bernard’s eyes when she talks about the future and where she plans to take her business, and she definitely isn’t planning on slowing down. A former long-distance runner, she applies that same discipline to moving down her professional path. The team embraces this challenge and enjoys inspiring each other to provide the best service and latest market knowledge to their clients.

Bernard’s team loves that they help people navigate one of the most important aspects of their lives—and doing it in a way that keeps clients coming back for more.

THE UNFLINCHING PERSPECTIVE OF HER TEAM ALLOWS THEM TO EMBRACE CHANGE AND KEEP DISCOVERING NEW AND BETTER WAYS TO SERVICE CLIENTS.

Global Intelligence Consultants Inc.

EFRAT K. COHEN-BARBIERI AND MICHAEL BARBIERI

As the top investigative firm in St. Louis, Global Intelligence Consultants, Inc. was awarded the Best Investigative Firm in Clayton and also the best investigative firm in Florida by the Florida Law Society, this team has always focused on delivering immediate results with professionalism and integrity. The owners have also been inducted into “Marquis Who’s Who in America in 2021 and 2022 as the “Best Private Investigators in America and the Top Executives in the Investigative Industry.

Barbieri has more than 35 years of experience in both law enforcement and protection. A graduate of the Greater St. Louis Metropolitan Police Academy, he has worked with and consulted for federal law enforcement agencies both in the U.S. and abroad. His expertise is sought after by governmental agencies and corporations throughout the world. He has covered workers compensation cases, corporate and domestic investigations, and threat assessments as well as executive protection and the extraction of U.S. citizens in foreign countries. “I’ve worked on cases in 20 countries and solved six cold case murders, two of which were international cases,” he notes. “I bring that experience to Global Intelligence Consultants.”

It was while working on an international investigation in Istanbul, Turkey, that Barbieri was referred to consult with Cohen-Barbieri when the assignment brought him to Florida. “Efrat was recommended to me by a friend I had worked with for 18 years,” he says. “In Florida, she assisted me with the case for six months, and we realized we worked well together.”

Cohen-Barbieri studied at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York City, which provides her a unique insight into the investigative field. She started her career as a state court appointed investigator, allowing her to conduct undercover investigations and surveillance both nationally and internationally. She brought her expertise to Global Intelligence Consultants to take on the management and direction of surveillance operations, including the deployment of covert and undercover operations. “Efrat has a perspective that most male investigators do not,” Barbieri says. “It’s a very male dominated field, and she looks at each case differently, noticing things that I may have overlooked. Having both perspectives works well for our clients.”

As well as her surveillance expertise, Cohen-Barbieri has worked in computer forensics, giving her the skills necessary to utilize public access database systems and social networking facilities during investigations. She is a licensed investigator in Florida, New York and Missouri, and Barbieri is licensed in Missouri. Their combined experience makes Global Intelligence Consultants a leader in the investigative field and allows clients to have peace of mind knowing that their case is in the most capable hands— whether its local, national or international. “Mike and I complement each other and bring our unique perspectives and skill sets to every case,” CohenBarbieri says. “When we combine our knowledge, we’re looking for the best possible outcome for our clients. For us, every case is a personal matter.”

BEST PRIVATE INVESTIGATION FIRM IN CLAYTON PRESENTED BY THE CLAYTON AWARDS COMMITTEE.

OUR TEAM ... DELIVERS RESULTS WITH PROFESSIONALISM AND INTEGRITY OF THE HIGHEST QUALITY ...

THE INSIDER

Calling all young artists!

Mosaics Fine Art Festival has opened applications for its Joyce Rosen Founder’s Scholarship. Missouri high school students who have been nominated by their art teachers can submit an original artwork in a variety of mediums. Chosen submissions will be exhibited at the 28th annual festival, and three scholarship prizes will be awarded. The deadline for submission is Sept. 1.

GOAL!

LITTLE SOCCER FANS WON’T WANT TO MISS

The Magic House’s newest interactive experience. The St. Louis CITY SC Soccer Training Center Exhibit helps children learn more about the sport, imagine themself as part of the team and get excited about health and wellness through the power of play.

The annual Robert Classic French Film Festival is back April 14-16, 21-23 and 28-30. Check out the festival schedule and purchase tickets at cinemastlouis.org.

PATTY

by patty hannum

CONGRATS TO PEDAL THE CAUSE!

The event was named one of the top ten 2022 cycling fundraisers by Cadence Sports and the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum. Having raised $4,543,878, Pedal the Cause rounded out the list in tenth position.

IN HONOR OF BLACK MATERNAL HEALTH WEEK, SSM HEALTH IS HOSTING A FREE PEER-LED SUPPORT GROUP FOR MOMS ON APRIL 12 AT SSM HEALTH ST. MARY’S HOSPITAL.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT MATERNITY CLASSES AND EVENTS, VISIT SSMHEALTH.COM/CLASSES-EVENTS.

I AM A 63-YEAR-OLD WOMAN , and this time of year causes me a certain amount of distress. Yes, it is commonly called spring, but it’s also “Sixty Days to Swimsuit Season.’ And every year, I think about the time I should have spent getting fit, but instead, I watched reruns of Dateline. (It was murder!)

Swimwear for anyone over the age of 45, regardless of gender, is something most people dread. Oh sure, I have a ton of confidence, sometimes too much, but the first day at the pool leads to anxiety and a search for the perfectly draped cover-up. That small piece of spandex, or whatever swimsuits are made of, is my Achilles heel.

This year, instead of wanting to look a certain way (not like the Pillsbury Dough Girl), I want to feel a certain way. So, I turned to my friend and wellness consultant Valerie Silberman for advice on the easiest, most efficient way to actually feel and look younger. I want to know the minimum amount of work this Dough Girl needs to do.

The first thing Val told me was not to complicate things. Most of her suggestions are free and pretty easy, though I will need to turn off Dateline. Every day is different so don’t wallow in what you might not have done but celebrate what you did do!

First, drink a full glass of water when you wake up. Add some fruit to your breakfast and vegetables to your evening meal. Set small goals for yourself. Okay, so far, I can do all those things.

Then it is time to move, move, move or walk, walk, walk! Park further away from the entrance of buildings, take stairs instead of the elevator and set a timer to remind you to get up and move. Most importantly, make it fun. That can mean dancing around the house, biking around the neighborhood or swimming instead of laying on the raft. Always keep a pair of comfortable shoes in your car because you never know when you are going to have time for a little stroll. Small changes can make a big difference to your overall

health. You can find more about Val’s approach at linkedin.com/valeriesilberman or email her at vsilberman510@gmail.com.

Hmm, Val is making this too easy. No club memberships, cross fit training or running until you barf! I can do this. She encourages you to choose three things and do them every other day until they are habits. And what I think is Val’s best suggestion, find something that makes you laugh out loud. Yes, my laughing, guffaws and giggles count as exercise.

So this year, I am not going to panic. I am going to try what Val suggested. Good news is I am past the age where anyone notices me lounging by the side of a pool. Better news with Val’s suggestions, I might not only look a bit better but my health will be a lot better. This year, I might just forget to find my perfectly draped cover-up and strut around the pool in a perfectly appropriate swimsuit. So, think about joining me on my wellness quest.

Peace my peeps. With love, the Dough Girl. &

LEARN MORE AT STCHARLESMOSAICS.ORG.

FRANCOPHILES AND CINEPHILES REJOICE!

PARENT TRAP

by dr. tim jordan

PROM NIGHT ADVICE

ABOUT ONE THIRD OF ADOLESCENTS are victims of physical, sexual, emotional or verbal abuse from a dating partner, and one-fourth of high school girls will experience physical or sexual abuse. Girls between the ages of 16 and 24 have the highest rate of partner violence, and 70% of college students say they have been sexually coerced. It’s a huge problem that seems to fly under our radar. Let me share some wisdom to guide your daughter about taking care of herself on prom night through a letter from a dad to his daughter.

Dear Daughter,

First of all, know that I love you and want the very best for you. I realize you are no longer a little kid, but in my heart, you will always be daddy’s little girl. That said, prom night is approaching, and my dad-alarms are going off like crazy, worrying if you know how to take care of yourself with your dating partner. So instead of being stuck in fear, I am offering you some wisdom about how to best take care of yourself that evening.

Don’t buy into the cultural myth that prom is a coming-of-age party where it’s expected that you get wasted and have sex. It’s your night and your decisions, so make them for your reasons.

It’s not true that every boy just wants sex. Deep down, guys want the same thing as girls: closeness, intimacy and understanding. Find non-sexual ways to experience intimacy. The closeness hormone oxytocin is released with hugs, holding hands and eye contact—not just through sex.

The best way to avoid having your sexual boundaries crossed is being aware of your internal alarms: a knot in your stomach, pounding heart, sweaty palms, racing thoughts or a tightening in your throat. These are signs your body is telling you to take care of yourself. Take a break to calm down, connect with your girlfriends, or leave the situation. When you get that feeling in your gut that something doesn’t feel right, trust it.

It’s critical that you become aware of what might blunt your alarms. Alcohol and drugs make you short-sighted. Alcohol also affects the hippocampus which is responsible for forming memories, and memory is your first line of defense. If your hippocampus has been turned off by substances, you won’t remember your pre-drinking assessments of people and will be at risk of making bad decisions.

Other things that blunt your intuition are desperately wanting the approval of others, worrying that you’re being lame, allowing self-doubts to confuse you or low self-esteem. These are potential growing edges for you, so take them seriously and work on them. What’s far more important than being wanted is for you to want what’s best and right for you.

Set clear, firm boundaries. Good girl conditioning tells you to be nice, not make waves and put others needs first without being too loud or assertive. Boys respond best to clear, firm boundaries versus meek ones.

Make a list of your criteria for a dating relationship, including sexual behavior. Creating your own standards while quiet and clear-headed is much better than trying to make good decisions in the heat of the moment. Cultivate quiet alone time to think, reflect and decide.

I love you, but what’s more important than that is that you love you. You will take care of yourself in direct proportion to what you feel you deserve. If you truly believe that you are loved, important and deserve the best, your actions and decisions will match that belief.

Throw off any limiting beliefs about yourself or self-doubts and go to prom armed with your intuition, and well thought out decisions. Have a blast, be true to yourself and be ferocious and clear with boundaries. I believe in you, and I love you. &

TIM JORDAN, M.D., IS A BEHAVIORAL PEDIATRICIAN WHO WORKS WITH GIRLS IN GRADE SCHOOL THROUGH COLLEGE. CHECK OUT HIS NEW ONLINE COURSE, PARENTING GIRLS: THE CHALLENGES GIRLS FACE TODAY WITH THEIR FEELINGS AND FRIENDSAND WHAT THEY NEED, AT DRTIMJORDAN.COM.

STUDENT STANDOUTS

by stephanie wallace

SOPHIA SALEEBY OF LADUE HORTON WATKINS HIGH SCHOOL

LATER THIS YEAR, Sophia Saleeby will represent Missouri at the National Youth Science Camp. She was inspired to participate thanks to her mother, who also had been selected to attend the prestigious camp in her youth. But the Ladue Horton Watkins High senior isn’t afraid to forge her own path. She’s also the co-captain of the golf team, president of the Spanish Honor Society and the founder of Culture Corner, a club dedicated to helping students explore different cultures.

Why did you apply for the National Youth Science Camp?

My mom loved attending the camp. I’ve heard the stories and seen pictures of her time there. She told me about how much fun it was to learn about different science topics from notable figures and meet people from across the country. When I heard I’d been accepted, we were both excited. I’m carrying on her legacy.

What are your STEM interests?

I want to be a doctor in the future. I’m interested in taking an interdisciplinary approach to medicine and looking at how culture affects it. One of my science fair projects looked at how different high schoolers dealt with stress, and I did see a significant difference in coping mechanisms. Some cultures might have stigmas around talking about mental health, and others

are more open about it. I think the future of health care is greater cultural awareness, so we can create more personalized approaches for patients.

How did Culture Corner start?

I’ve always loved learning about other cultures. My sophomore year, I noticed my school had a lot of affinity groups but not about different cultures. Culture Corner started while we were remote learning, so club members did video presentations and discussions. Since we’ve been able to meet in person, we’ve gotten to do more. We watch important movies and documentaries, play cultural games and eat significant foods. It’s been great to see the club grow and develop.

How long have you played golf?

I had taken a couple lessons before high school, but I didn’t have much experience

until I joined the team my freshman year. I was very honored when my teammates nominated me to be co-captain this year. It’s been great getting to lead team bonding activities. I just love the team and the game of golf.

You also play ultimate frisbee. I played in gym class during middle school, but that was my only experience with the game before high school. Two of my friends encouraged me to join the team. At the time, there were very few girls playing. I think we started with around four. Over time, we managed to grow that number until we had enough to form an all-girls team, not just a co-ed one. The girls team actually won the state championship last year, which was really cool. We were undefeated that season, and it was a lot of fun to share that experience with my teammates. &

SPONSORED BY: BACKYARD COURTS BUILT TO LAST...CHAMPIONS START HERE!

AS PART OF ITS SPONSORSHIP, SPORT COURT ST. LOUIS HAS MADE A DONATION ON BEHALF OF SOPHIA TO WORLD PEDIATRIC PROJECT.

TWO CAMPS TWO CAMPS ONE GREAT ONE GREAT SUMMER SUMMER

▼ robinson elementary school

The school’s head custodian, Bryan Freeman (pictured with teaching assistant Susan Whitfield), recently stepped up in a life-saving way. During lunch, he noticed a student choking and quickly administered the Heimlich maneuver, successfully dislodging the food. “He’s always observing and seeing how he can help and support everyone in the building,” notes Angeline O’Neal-Hogrefe, Ed.D., Robinson principal. Freeman adds, “I just love the kids. All of them need special attention. If I’m able to help a child, I will.”

HEARD IN THE HALLS

by stephanie wallace

high school

Junior Annalise Bancks received an honorable mention for her C-SPAN StudentCam video documentary, “Killing Dead Zones.” The competition tasked students with creating a five-to-six-minute documentary exploring the question: “If you were a newly elected member of Congress, which issue would be your first priority and why?" Bancks received a $250 cash prize and her work can be viewed at viddler.com/v/a18e8dc5.

micds

Practice Test

▲ ladue horton watkins high school

The school’s “A” chess team was victorious at the Gateway League championship, capping off an undefeated 12-0 season with a first place finish in the West Conference. The school’s “B” team also performed well, finishing the season with a 7-1 record and securing second place in the East Conference.

st. louis university high school

Students in the Upper School recently hosted the annual Student Diversity Leadership Conference. The event is an opportunity for local students to collaborate and engage in meaningful conversations. This year, 25 local schools took part in the day-long conference, which included speakers along with games and small group discussions to learn new strategies and build leadership skills. Conversation topics included inclusion, community and school leadership, systemic racism, ageism, sexism and classism. The conference’s headline speaker was KSDK new anchor Michelle Li, who spoke on the racism and discrimination she has experienced.

The high school recently opened its new Claude Heithaus, SJ 1916 Media Center. The center took over the space that formerly housed the academic administration, which has been moved to the school’s new Dill Center. The renovated facilities feature designated spaces for student media organizations and clubs as well as an open collaboration area, conference room and production studio, allowing the Media Center to serve as a laboratory for student discovery and productivity.

SUMMER ACTIVITIES GUIDE

CAMP TAUM SAUK

Established in 1946, this traditional overnight summer camp for kids ages 8 to 15 provides an amazing camp experience in a safe, nurturing and fun environment. With a wide range of land and water activities, it’s time to take a break from technology to create memories that will last a lifetime!

314.993.1655 TAUMSAUK.COM

CHAMINADE SUMMER CAMPS

Chaminade offers something for every interest from basketball and coding to band and organizational boot camp—and more! Our camps offer a sample of all that we have to offer. Camps are open to boys and girls in grades three to 12.

425 S. LINDBERGH BLVD.

314.993.4400

CHAMINADE-STL.ORG/SUMMER-CAMPS

COCA SUMMER ARTS CAMPS

COCA offers some of the most creative Summer Arts Camps for kids and teens (ages 3 to 18). Enjoy a fun-filled summer experience where campers express their creativity and build their skills. Camps run May 30 through Aug. 18.

6880 WASHINGTON AVE.

314.725.6555

COCASTL.ORG/SUMMER-ARTS-CAMPS

CUB CREEK SCIENCE CAMP

With more than 300 animals and more than 100 activities in science, crafts, archery and more, Cub Creek is a truly unique camp experience.

16795 STATE ROUTE E

573.458.2125

CUBCREEKSCIENCECAMP.COM

FORSYTH SUMMER DISCOVERY

Summer begins here June 12! Forsyth Summer Discovery provides a balance of structure and age-appropriate freedom, offering children age 3 through grade seven a mostly unplugged experience with a neighborhood feel. Extended day is available; additional fees apply.

6235 WYDOWN BLVD.

314.726.4542

FORSYTHSCHOOL.ORG/SUMMER-DISCOVERY

GRAND CENTER ARTS ACADEMY ARTS CAMP

Grand Center Arts Academy’s summer arts camp is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for students to explore their creativity in the heart of Grand Center Arts District. Industry professionals teach interactive courses in instrumental and vocal music, theater, dance and visual arts.

611 N. 10TH ST. 314.437.0571

GRANDCENTERARTSACADEMY.ORG

J DAY CAMPS

Make new friends and learn new skills at J Day Camps this summer! They give campers options on their activities including sports, arts, gymnastics and more. With on-site swimming, 78% of campers improve their swim skills. Lunch option available. ACA accredited.

2 MILLSTONE CAMPUS DRIVE | 16801 BAXTER ROAD 314.442.3423

JCCSTL.COM/DAYCAMPS

PRESS PLAY SUMMER CAMP

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis offers a positive, safe, affordable and fun summer camp experience. Campers, ages 6 to 18, participate in educational, recreational and social activities, including creativity, recreation, STEM and more. Camps include a nutritious breakfast and lunch. Financial assistance is available. Register by June 2.

9 LOCATIONS IN ST. LOUIS AND ILLINOIS 314.335.8000

BGCSTL.ORG

SPARTAN SUMMER AT DE SMET JESUIT

Spartan Summer at De Smet Jesuit offers athletic and special interest camps for middle school boys on its centrally located Creve Coeur campus. Campers can combine morning and afternoon sessions and stay for lunch. Early drop-off and late pickup available.

233 N. NEW BALLAS ROAD 314.785.1510

DESMET.ORG/SPARTANSUMMER

STAGES PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY

STAGES Performing Arts Academy offers an exciting variety of musical theater camps and productions for students of all ages and abilities. Act, dance and sing all summer long! Register today at stagesstlouis.org/summer or call 636.449.5775. 1023 CHESTERFIELD PARKWAY E. | 636.449.5775

STAGESSTLOUIS.ORG/ACADEMY

WHITFIELD SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAMS

Summer at Whitfield offers a variety of engaging and enriching camp options, including Camp Whitfield (grades K-7), sports camps (grades K-8) and a summer session for middle school campers. Be it on the court, in the art studio or in the science lab, campers are guided by Whitfield’s talented faculty and coaches. Registration now open.

175 S. MASON ROAD | 314.434.5141

WHITFIELDSCHOOL.ORG/ABOUT/SUMMER-PROGRAMS

WILSON DAY CAMP AND THINK CAMP

Give your little tinkerers (those entering grades three to six) the chance to experiment, create and build at The Wilson School’s Think Camp. Wilson Day Camp (age 3 to grade six) includes weekly themes and more, plus field trips to Shaw Park pool and other local favorites.

400 DE MUN AVE. | 314.725.4999 | WILSONSCHOOL.COM/SUMMER-CAMP

MISSION

REASONS YOU SHOULD VOLUNTEER

Volunteering is a great way to support worthy causes. Many nonprofits rely on volunteers to make their missions possible, so you can have a tangible impact. Giving back isn’t the only benefit of getting involved. April is National Volunteer Month, so it’s the perfect opportunity to get started. You may not receive a paycheck, but you’ll still be rewarded in big ways.

BY STEPHANIE WALLACE

When a person with a mental illness can come out of isolation, avoid homelessness, and earn a living, our community is stronger. Find out how we accomplish this at independencecenter.org. For giving options: scan the QR code, or contact Trish Holmes at pholmes@independencecenter.org or 636-795-5441

POSSIBLE SPECIAL SECTION

1. A STRONGER COMMUNITY

By volunteering, you’re taking direct action to address problems that are important to St. Louis. You’re also working with others who also want to improve the community. The more connections made between stakeholders, the stronger the community is.

2. MORE SOCIAL OPPORTUNITIES

Speaking of connections, volunteering is a great way to meet new people. Typically when you’re volunteering, you work with people from a variety of backgrounds, so you can learn different perspectives. It also can be a great opportunity to strengthen relationships

with friends, family or even co-workers. It can provide the chance to network or even discover new career opportunities by making new connections. If you’re a retiree, getting involved is a great way to fill the social void left by no longer having work colleagues.

3. IMPROVED SELF ESTEEM

Looking for a confidence boost? Volunteering is an excellent option. Research has shown that altruistic behaviors may raise your sense of self worth. In a study of teens, it was found that those who offered support and kindness to strangers had higher self esteem. This is likely because helping

others often pushes us outside of our comfort zone, so when we do it, we feel a greater sense of accomplishment.

4. REDUCED DEMENTIA RISK

Volunteering may be an effective way to ward off dementia. A study from Indiana University looked at more than 64,000 subjects who were 60 and older. Those who did volunteer work for 100 hours a year— less than two hours a week— scored around 6% higher in cognitive testing than those who did not volunteer. More research from the University of Calgary found that volunteering for one hour a week meant participants were 2.44 times less likely to develop dementia.

5. NEW SKILL DEVELOPMENT

There are endless ways to volunteer, and each of them comes with a different skill set. You can develop new creative skills by crafting needed items, or use a project to work on things like teamwork, communication, problem solving, project planning, task management and organization.

6. A MORE ACTIVE LIFESTYLE

Volunteer activity keeps you moving and thinking. That can have big benefits on your physical health. In a study of adults 55 and older, the National Institutes of Health found that volunteering reduced mortality risk by 24% when adjusted effect size. Unadjusted, the results

showed a 47% decrease. Other research has found that states with higher volunteer rates have lower mortality rates and less incidences of heart disease.

7. BETTER MENTAL HEALTH

If you are looking for less stress, giving back can help. According to the Mayo Clinic, volunteering causes people to release dopamine, which results in them feeling more relaxed. It’s also associated with a sense of meaning and appreciation, which can have further stress-relieving effects. This decreases the risk of many physical and mental health problems, including heart disease, depression and anxiety.

1 million+ children are living with heart disease in the United States

Our vision at Ollie Hinkle Heart Foundation (OHHF) is that every heart child and family will be wrapped in love to eliminate the traumas endured by living with a chronic illness.

www.theohhf.org

info@theohhf.org @theohhf

9 out of 10 heart

25% will need surgery or other procedures in their first year of life families experience

financial burdens

84% of heart parents report symptoms of trauma and 30% are diagnosed with PTSD

SOURCES: AARP, NPR, MAYO CLINIC, NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis invites you to the 2023 Jim Butler Memorial Golf Classic

MONDAY

JUNE 26, 2023

Norwood Hills Country Club

Benefiting

11am Shotgun Includes: Golf, Lunch, Online Auction, Dinner & Awards Program

Sponsorship & Registration

Contact Anne Ramsey anner@bgcstl.org 314-335-8014

THE BACH SOCIETY OF SAINT LOUIS

As the final performance of the season, we invite you to experience the power and intimacy of Bach's St. Matthew Passion. The Bach Society Chorus and Orchestra will be joined by the Missouri Baptist University Chamber Singers and an internationally recognized cast of Baroque soloists. 3547 Olive St., Ste. 120 314.652.BACH (2224) bachsociety.org

AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

Join the American Heart Association for the 2023 Metro St. Louis Heart Walk on May 13 at Busch Stadium. The Heart Walk is a great way to get moving while socializing with friends, family and coworkers. It not only boosts your heart and mental health, it helps thousands of others at the same time. P.O. Box 411364 314.692.5662 metrostlouisheartwalk.org

A fairy tale of eternal devotion, evil sorcery, and the triumph of true love.

APRIL 28-30 stlouisballet.org

INDEPENDENCE CENTER

Independence Center provides comprehensive care to individuals with serious mental illness. Through our services, members gain the independence to live a healthy,

THE MUNY

Gather your family and friends for The Muny's 2023 season. See all seven shows this summer and save up to 32% with season tickets—it’s like seeing two shows for free! One Theatre Drive 314.361.1900 muny.org

OLLIE HINKLE HEART FOUNDATION

Join us for CPR at the Bar on April 21 at The Hall at Olive & Oak. OHHF honors the incredible life saving act of bystander CPR in a night of education and fun, celebrating our very own CPR survivor and adult congenital heart disease warrior, Sydney Philpott-Streiff. 216 W. Lockwood Ave., theohhf.org/cpr-at-the-bar

SAINT

On May 13, Saint Louis Ballet will hold the En Pointe Gala at The Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta. The ballet company will honor Blanche Touhill and also raise funds for its live music fund and outreach program. 212 Kingshighway Blvd. 636.537.1998 stlouisballet.org/gala2023

LOUIS BALLET

tee t me

Spring and summer are the time to get outside and get active. What better way than a round of golf?

Well, how about a round of golf that gives back?

The upcoming months are full of golf fundraisers that support great causes. FORE!

MAY

5.2

16th annual golf tournament

Signature Healthcare Foundation

WHITMOOR COUNTRY CLUB | 11 A.M. SIGNATUREFOUNDATION.ORG

5.5

2023 nawic st. louis

annual golf tournament National Association of Women in Construction

FOREST PARK GOLF COURSE | 7:30 A.M.

NAWICSTL.ORG

5.8

ashrae stl scholarship golf outing

ASHRAE STL

MISSOURI BLUFF GOLF COURSE | 11 A.M. ASHRAE.ORG

5.11

topgolf experience

100 Black Men of Metropolitan of St. Louis TOPGOLF | 5 P.M. 100BLACKMENSTL.COM

5.22

golf tournament St. Louis Arc

THE COUNTRY CLUB OF ST. ALBANS 314.569.2211 | SLARC.ORG

5.22

golf tournament & auction

Friends of Kids with Cancer

WHITMOOR COUNTRY CLUB | 9 A.M. 314.275.7440 | FRIENDSOFKIDS.COM

JUNE

6.5

joe buck golf classic St. Louis Children’s Hospital

OLD WARSON COUNTRY CLUB | 9 A.M. SUPPORT.STLOUISCHILDRENS.ORG

6.19

golf for hope

Boys Hope Girls Hope St. Louis

WHITMOOR COUNTRY CLUB | 9:30 A.M. 314.776.9406 | BOYSHOPEGIRLSHOPESTL.ORG

A Million Thanks!!

6.26

jim butler memorial golf classic Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis

NORWOOD HILLS COUNTRY CLUB | 11 A.M. 314.335.8000 | BGCSTL.ORG

6.28

guide right foundation of st. louis golf classic

Guide Right Foundation of St. Louis

FOREST PARK GOLF COURSE | NOON TLGUIDERIGHT.COM

JULY

7.16

7th annual michael tocco benefit golf classic

Michael Tocco

Piece of My Heart Foundation

ST. PETERS GOLF CLUB | 7:30 A.M. 636.634.5900 | MIKETOCCOFOUNDATION.ORG

AUGUST

8.4

robert w. anderson jr.

memorial golf tournament

Athletes to First Responder

Charitable Fund

FOREST PARK GOLF COURSE | 7:30 A.M. ATHLETES2FR.COM

8.7

golf tournament for children’s charities

St. Louis Italian Open

THE LEGENDS COUNTRY CLUB 314.308.6243 | ITALIANOPEN.ORG

8.27

collette moreno

memorial golf tournament

Annie’s Hope TBA

314.965.5015 | ANNIESHOPE.ORG

De Smet Jesuit’s “Havana Nights” Odyssey Auction on March 3 set a new record for giving with $1 million raised by more than 600 attendees. Special thanks to our Auction Committee, led by Aimée Bergan and Kristy Littauer, as well as De Smet Jesuit’s Advancement Team and our parent, student, and alumni volunteers.

We are especially grateful for the generosity of our “Havana Nights” sponsors, whose endorsement of De Smet Jesuit’s mission helped us achieve our $1 million fundraising goal.

Bronze Sponsors

Gaertner Family • John Pennington ’01

Stock & Associates Consulting Engineers, Inc.

Spartan Sponsors

Anders CPAs + Advisors

Account Resolution Corporation

Bazan Painting Co. • Diversified Ingredients

Edward Jones – Brent Tiemeyer ’99

Industries • Sindelar Family World Wide Technology, Inc.

Silver Sponsors

APC • Abstrakt Marketing Group

Arch Express • Bergan Family

John Brunts Family • Busey Bank

C.A.P.S. • CarShield • Crane Agency

De Smet Jesuit Alumni Association

De Smet Jesuit Men’s Club • ECMG

Food Service Consultants, Inc.

Frederic Roofing • Krilogy

Littauer Family • Raymond James Suntrup Automotive Group

Enterprise Bank and Trust

Fischer & Frichtel

Friends of De Smet Jesuit

G&W Engineering • Con Lane Family ’84

MAC MD • Midwestern Safety Equipment Co., Inc. • Rothermich Family

Tegethoff Homes • Title Partners

Agency, LLC • Jim Wachter Family ’84

Paddle Sponsor Missouri Pickleball Club

Dessert-to-go Sponsor Donut Palace

provident gala

by bill barrett

The gala supports Provident Behavioral Health’s mission to help individuals and families to a brighter future through counseling, suicide prevention and intervention, and community support programs. Guests enjoyed cocktails, dinner, silent and live auctions and entertainment by Fan Fare. guests: President and executive director

TYRA AND JAVIER DUREN

ADAM FOURNIE, GINA GOTTLOB

SEN. JILL AND MARK SCHUPP

THOMAS AND LAURA LALLY

JULIE AND JEFF BRENEMAN

EDWARD AND BETSY LAWLOR

KEVIN DROLLINGER, MARIANNE FOURNIE

TICKETS START AT $25

THE GATESWORTH art show & reception

by gregg goldman photography

The Gatesworth Art Show & Reception showed off some of the community’s best resident-produced work from the past year. And this isn’t just any kind of art. It’s award-winning art. These are some of the most talented seniors in the St. Louis region. Just ask judges from the annual St. Louis Senior Olympics. The Gatesworth welcomes all residents to participate in its art classes. No prior experience is required. In fact, many residents don’t even discover their artistic talent and passion until they’ve moved to the independent-living community.

Pillsbury Chapel at Missouri Baptist University

As the final performance of the season, The Bach Society Chorus and Orchestra invite you to experience the power and intimacy of this masterpiece through Bach’s engaging account of the gospel story.

Pop-Up Art Gallery

Opening Night: Friday April 21st 6:00- 9:00 pm 6546 Manchester Rd., STL

Featuring: David Ruggeri Brock Seals

Will Woodrow

RSVP and more details at: davidruggeri.com/show

For private viewing Thursday April 20th email: vip@davidruggeri.com

TERRY MOORE-SHEPLEY

LEN BANASZAK

JOHN LESSER

BERKELEY GUNTHER

ANNE BANET

GO RED FOR WOMEN LUNCHEON

WED., APRIL 26 TH THE RITZ-CARLTON, ST. LOUIS

Discover Senior Living Your Way

AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

by julia m. johnson

EVERYONE HAS A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER who has been impacted in some way by cardiovascular disease. Among women, it causes more deaths than all cancers combined. It’s an ever-present threat, but it’s one that community commitment can make a mark on. St. Louisans have always had a heart for the fight against cardiovascular disease, and each spring, it takes the form of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women luncheon at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Clayton.

The fun, interactive April 26 gathering will bring together people from all over who care about helping women lead healthy, productive lives. Jennifer Jaeger, the association’s executive director for metropolitan St. Louis, says recent events such as the cardiac arrest of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin have brought to light how important heart health is. Hamlin received CPR and automated external defibrillation on the field before being taken to the hospital, and his story has caught the attention of millions.

Public awareness is a key to saving lives, so the American Heart Association has launched the Be the Beat campaign, with the goal of teaching people how to perform hands-only CPR in case of a cardiac arrest. The technique involves two steps—calling 911, then using the hands to exert hard, fast pressure in the center of the chest until medical assistance arrives. Jaeger says women are less likely than men to receive bystander CPR because of fears about injury or inappropriate touch, so this simple technique is designed to help. “It will be demonstrated at the Go Red luncheon so attendees will be ready if they ever need to use it,” she says. As part of the effort, the nonprofit is encouraging every U.S. household to have at least one person who knows the method.

“We were already planning the Be the Beat campaign when Mr. Hamlin’s cardiac arrest occurred,” Jaeger says. “When it came to light, we realized, it’s time for the whole world to know CPR so more lives can be saved. The effort has been very effective, including among younger, more diverse audiences.”

This year’s event chairperson, Ameren executive vice president, general counsel and secretary Chonda Nwamu, says the Go Red initiative began as a show of solidarity and has evolved into a fund- and awareness-raising movement that supports research, education and advocacy and encourages women to care for their health. “It’s personal—as a woman, and a woman of color, I am passionate about equity, and health and wellness are foundational to quality of life,” she says. “As women, we juggle so many roles and are often caretakers for others, and it can be a recipe for allowing our own health to fall lower on our priority list with devastating consequences. Go Red for Women is leveling the playing field for women and heart health ... and helping to ensure that no communities are left behind.”

One of the most surprising things about the human heart is that it’s vulnerable but also resilient. St. Louisans who want to help hearts stay healthy and strong can get involved with the Go Red event as an attendee, donor or social media supporter, Jaeger says. “It’s an opportunity to have a great time and celebrate the power of women,” she notes. “It’s also a time to look at how far we’ve come. We still have far to go, but it’s all part of the journey toward better health.” &

by stephanie wallace

STYLE STL STL fun

this spring and summer.

IN GOOD SPIRITS CLOVER

The beloved Clover and the Bee in Webster Groves has gotten a rebrand. Now known as Clover, Neighborhood Café & {Natural} Wine Bar, the restaurant will still serve lunch and breakfast, but the new wine bar concept will start at 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. Clover features only natural wine, which refers to unfiltered wines made using hand-picked grapes from organic or sustainable venues. The selections will come from France, Italy, Austria, Australia, California, Oregon and even Missouri. thecloverandthebee.com

EARTHBOUND BEER

St. Louis became a beer city in part thanks to the limestone caves underneath it. If you’d like the chance to see one of the caves, head to Earthbound Beer. While the micro-brewery is on the newer side, its building is not. It took over the original stock house of Cherokee Brewing Co., which dates back to the 1860s. Its cellars are part of the network of caves that run under Cherokee Street, and you can check them out by taking a brewery tour, which are offered on Saturdays. Guided by a brewer, guests also get to enjoy a complimentary beer. earthboundbeer.com

THAXTON SPEAKEASY

Take a step back in time with the Thaxton Speakeasy. To visit this downtown gem, you’ll need to head down an alley to access the historic art deco building, and don’t forget the password, which you find on the bar’s Instagram (@thethaxtonstl). Once you’re inside you can enjoy live music performed by a pianist and jazz band, and make sure you belly up to the bar—it’s a speakeasy after all! The bar does book private events, so visit its website to make sure it’s open the evening you plan to visit. thaxtonspeakeasy.com

FAMILY FUN

CROWN CANDY KITCHEN

You can’t go wrong with an StL classic! As St. Louis’ oldest soda fountain, it’s a blast from the past. There’s no doubt that both parents and kiddos will want to grab a malt, milkshake or sundae, but don’t miss out on grabbing lunch. The pickyeater friendly menu features a variety of sandwiches, salads and gourmet hot dogs. Once you are done, make sure to pick up some old fashioned chocolate treats to take home. crowncandykitchen.net

SLICK CITY STL WEST

If you need the kids to burn off some energy, this new action park in Chesterfield is a great option. While there is an abundance of slides, this isn’t a water park. Everything is powered by friction. The offerings include a four-person race slide, a more gentle switchback slide, a bowl slide with a drop, a half-pipe slide, a launch slide that rockets the rider into the air, a luge, a long jump slide and a soft play area for kids ages 7 and younger slickcity.com/stlouiswest

SUSON PARK

You can spend a day on the farm without leaving St. Louis. Originally owned by Sidney Salomon Jr. (the first owner of the St. Louis Blues!), the land was opened to the public as a park in 1964. The 98-acre park offers a variety of outdoor activities the whole family can enjoy, including fishing and a playground. Most excitingly you can see a variety of barnyard animals at the park’s working animal farm. stlouiscountymo.gov

GET CREATIVE CENTRAL PRINT

Bibliophiles aren’t the only ones who will want to check out Central Print. The nonprofit is dedicated to promoting the art of letterpress printmaking through classes and workshops. Along with courses on bookbinding and typesetting, you learn how to screen print on fabric and letter by hand, even if you have no experience with calligraphy. centralprint.org

PERENNIAL

Learn how to upcycle creatively! Perennial is a nonprofit organization that offers classes on ways to reuse materials and reduce waste by using salvaged materials to craft. Courses offered include woodworking, stained glass, mosaics, sewing, dyes, bookbinding and more. Need materials? For salvaged supplies, you can shop its retail shop, which is open to the public Thursday, Friday and Saturday. perennialstl.org

ST. LOUIS POETRY CENTER

Are you a poet and you know it? The Saint Louis Poetry Center should be your destination. Since 1946, it has been supporting the literary arts in our community through poetry readings, education and community programs. The center’s signature program is the Sunday Workshop—the longest running local poetry writing workshop. At these free events, notable poet critics provide friendly and constructive feedback on presubmitted works in a group setting. stlouispoetrycenter.org

READY, SET PLAY

ARMORY STL

Kids at heart won’t want to miss Armory STL. Located in the historic 138th Infantry Missouri National Guard Armory building, the entertainment venue offers more than six acres of space to play, eat, drink and discover. The main hall includes more than 20 games, such as table tennis, beer pong, four-square badminton, ladder golf, 8-player foosball, giant checkers and chess, arcade games, washers and cornhole. The attractions also include a two-story slide, an adult-sized seesaw and a photo booth. armorystl.com

WORLD CHESS HALL OF FAME

Grandmasters and novices alike can enjoy exhibitions and special programming for both adults and kids at the World Chess Hall of Fame. Through the end of April, you can check out 1972 Fischer/Spassky: The Match, Its Origin, and Influence, a celebration of the 50th anniversary of Fischer's historic win over the Russian in the legendary 1972 World Chess Championship. And you can’t miss the world’s largest chess piece out front, coming in at 14 feet tall! worldchesshof.org

PUTTSHACK

Take your mini golf game to the next level at Puttshack. Located at City Foundry STL, this state-of-the art indoor miniature golf course ditches scorecards for patented Trackaball Technology that links your ball to your profile. There are four custom courses to choose from, and you can make a whole evening of it by visiting the bar and restaurant—or even head next door to check out what the City Foundry Food Hall has to offer. cityfoundrystl.com

With spring here and summer on the horizon, it’s time to get out and take in all St. Louis has to offer. You probably don’t need us to tell you about all of the activities and experiences the StL can bring you and your family—but a reminder couldn’t hurt! We’ve pulled together just a few options (both old and new) for fun

QUICK BITES

by stephanie wallace

OPENS CLOSES &

Family-owned restaurant La Crazy Margarita is now open at 3131 S. Grand Blvd. While the menu features a mix of Tex Mex and American dishes, co-owners Romel Mayahua and Benito Mendieta also are dedicated to showcasing authentic Mexican cuisine. … Looking for something fresh this April? The Neon Banana will be serving up juices, açaí bowls, salads and more at 10283 Clayton Road in Ladue. … Black Mountain Wine House has taken over the former home of West End Grill & Pub at 354-356 N. Boyle Ave. in the Central West End. The new location is an extension of the original, which is in Brooklyn, New York. … Hamilton Hospitality group has announced that Vin de Set, PW Pizza and 21st Street Brewers Bar will not reopen. Last September, all three restaurants were extensively damaged in a fire at 2017 Chouteau Ave. … After seven years in The Grove, Gezellig Tap House & Bottleshop has closed. Owner Brandon Cavanagh is currently scouting locations to launch a new concept.

ON TAP

Craft beer lovers will want to head over the river to Staunton, Illinois, where Mississippi Culture will open its brewery and taproom later this month. The brewery is inspired by Belgian farmhouse traditions and will use mixed culture fermentation to create saison-based beers.

Father-son team Tracy and Bruce Hutton originally purchased the building at 201 S. Union St. in 2020, but construction was delayed thanks to the pandemic and an increase in cost of materials. Brewing is already underway at the facilities, and the planned main taproom is expected to seat between 35 and 40 guests.

CHECKING IN

21cMuseum Hotel is bringing two new restaurant concepts to downtown St. Louis at 1528 Locust St. Idol Wolf is inspired by Spanish cuisine and tapas-style dining. Coffee shop Good Press will serve breakfast and lunch, and the beverage menu will focus on coffees and teas, including those from local suppliers like Northwest Coffee and Big Heart Tea Co. Both restaurants will open under the leadership of executive chef Matt Daughaday, who previously worked in kitchens for Reeds American Table, Juniper and Taste.

GOING GREEN

Quick-service salad bar Neon Greens is coming to The Grove this summer. The restaurant will open in the former Rise Coffee House location at 4176 Manchester Ave. The restaurant will grow much of its own produce in an adjoining building, using hydroponic and vertical farming methods. Owner Josh Smith plans to connect the indoor agricultural facility to Neon Greens with a conveyor build, which will deliver the produce over the heads of diners.

GOOD BREWS

Looking for a cup of joe? Local coffee-roaster Omen Coffee Co. has opened its first coffee shop at 2647 Washington Ave. in Midtown. The 3,000-square-foot space offers areas for guests to work, study and talk with a variety of seating options like communal tables and couches. Omen roasts its coffee in small batches, and customers can choose from a menu of espressos, cappuccinos, lattes, cold brews and more or purchase bags of ground and whole beans. There are plans to add food offerings in the coming weeks. &

Take Note

1. Laurie’s Shoes

Think of Portugal for extreme fashion and comfort! 9916 MANCHESTER ROAD 314.961.1642 LAURIESSHOES.COM

2. White Glove Exotic Services

With decades of experience, White Glove realizes that owning fun things means working to maintain them. We made a vehicle service department that can maintain everything in your garage.

PICTURED: OWNER ALEX DAVID

10640 GATEWAY BLVD. 314.464.4001

WGESSTL.COM

3. The Gatesworth

Rated as a Best Independent Living by U.S. News & World Report, The Gatesworth community is always bustling with activity. When the weather warms, residents enjoy every inch of its sprawling grounds—including more than 1,500 annuals planted yearly.

ONE McKNIGHT PLACE

314.993.0111

THEGATESWORTH.COM

4. Sport Court St. Louis

Stay fit on our backyard game courts, which provide a multiuse space for almost every sport imaginable: basketball, hockey, tennis, pickleball, volleyball and more. 636.451.0400

SPORTCOURTSTLOUIS.COM

5. Clarendale Clayton

Now open, experience first-of-its-kind, high-rise luxury senior living tailored to your wants and needs. Five-star hospitality, apartments with a view, exceptional dining, and holistic programming beyond your wildest dreams await.

7651 CLAYTON ROAD 314.789.8173

CLARENDALECLAYTON.COM

Around Town

6.

David Ruggeri Art

Join us April 21 from 6 to 9 p.m. for the opening of a pop-up art gallery show featuring the bold 2D and 3D works of David Ruggeri, Brock Seals and Will Woodrow For more details and to RSVP, visit davidruggeri.com/show. 6546 MANCHESTER AVE. 314.896.0223

DAVIDRUGGERI.COM

Mind, Body & Behavior: The Impacts of Stress

By Stephanie Wallace

Stress has always been a part of the human experience. Our ancestors developed stress responses to help them cope with environmental threats, and while we may not have to deal with being chased down by predators today, stress plays a part in our daily lives, enhancing our ability to problem solve and get things done. Chronic stress, however, can take a heavy toll on your mental and physical health. For National Stress Awareness Month, we’re looking at some of the long term impacts.

mind

Perhaps the most recognizable impact of stress is the one it has on our mental health. The psychological effects can manifest in many ways, such as aggression, irritability, exhaustion, sadness and difficulty focusing. If left unchecked, stress can lead to larger problems, such as depression, anxiety or burnout.

Anxiety: While they are often viewed similarly, there is a difference between stress and anxiety. The latter is defined by persistent, excessive worries that don’t go away even in the absence of a stressor. A buildup of stress overtime can trigger anxiety or even lead to the development of an anxiety disorder.

Restlessness: Your flight or fight response is triggered by stress. This results in a surge of adrenaline, which can make it difficult to sit still, rest or relax. Restlessness may leave you feeling fatigued or make it difficult to concentrate at work or school.

Lack of focus: Stress has an impact on your cognitive processes, including working memory–the small amount of memory that is temporarily held in your mind and used to complete tasks. Working memory is what allows us to get stuff done without losing track of what we’re doing. Without working memory, you can’t focus, so it can be very difficult to accomplish tasks.

body

Our bodies can handle stress in small doses, but when it becomes chronic, the impact can be serious. Long-term stress affects all systems of the body, including musculoskeletal, respiratory, cardiovascular, endocrine, gastrointestinal, nervous and reproductive.

Muscle pain: When we’re stressed, we’re tense—literally. Our muscles reflexively tense up as a natural response to avoiding injury and pain. Not only can constant tension lead to aches and pains, but it also can trigger other responses in the body.

Headache: That pounding in your head is more likely when you’re dealing with stress. Both tension and migraine headaches can be a result of chronic muscle tension. They are often caused by the contraction of muscles in the scalp and neck.

Chest pain: To deal with stress, your body releases hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. This can lead to an increase in blood pressure and heart rate, leading to difficulty breathing, throat constriction and contraction of your chest muscles. These factors can contribute to chest pain.

Fatigue: Stress means your body is operating at high alert—every part of it is working harder. That’s exhausting, and you’re going to feel it. That impact could manifest as chronic fatigue, which can leave you feeling drowsy or unmotivated even when you have gotten enough sleep.

Change in sex drive: In both the male and female reproductive systems, stress can have an impact on the libido. Chronic stress can affect testosterone production, resulting in lower sex drive or even erectile dysfunction. For women, sexual desire can be reduced by factors like fatigue, distraction or the feeling of overwhelm that can come with balancing a busy schedule.

Stomach issues: When you’re worried about something, you often feel butterflies in your stomach. That’s because your brain and gut are in constant communication. Stress can trigger pain, bloating and other discomfort. It also can impact how food moves through your digestive system, leading to vomiting, diarrhea or constipation.

Trouble sleeping: Stress can decrease both the length and quality of sleep, and in turn, sleep deprivation makes it easier for stress to impact you. The American Psychological Association found that adults who get fewer than eight hours of sleep a night are more likely to feel irritable, overwhelmed and unmotivated. Severe stress also has been known to cause insomnia.

Feeling overwhelmed: When you’re having trouble managing stress or the impacts of stress, it can lead to feeling overwhelmed. The mental impact of feeling this way can include cognitive slowness, forgetfulness, confusion and difficulty concentrating or thinking logically. This in turn can lead to more stress, creating a vicious cycle.

Irritability: The emotional effects of stress can lead to abrupt changes in mood, and a common one is anger, especially in those who are already prone to irritability. Chronic stress can make you more sensitive to small problems and, therefore, more quick to anger. For example, you’re more likely to be irritated by a dog barking or getting cut off in traffic if you’re already feeling stressed.

Depression: Stress and depression have a bidirectional connection, meaning one can cause the other and they can make each other worse. The social isolation often caused by depression can lead to stress, and major stressors like divorce or financial difficulties can unbalance your mental health.

Behavior

Diet issues: Stress can trigger the drive for comfort food, such as sugar-sweetened beverages, baked goods and junk food. This is thought to be due to the release of the hormone cortisol. While stress eating is common, in the short term, stress also can shut down the appetite thanks to the spike in adrenaline.

Outbursts: Due to the emotional and psychological toll of stress, it can lead to an emotional meltdown. This can look different for different people. It could lead to uncontrollable crying, or if you are more prone to anger, you could find yourself snapping or lashing out at others.

Drug or alcohol abuse: A common coping mechanism is substance use. However, drugs and alcohol can actually negatively impact your ability to manage stress. Prolonged substance abuse changes areas of the brain related to impulse control and motivation, which makes it difficult to quit despite the negative effects like economic instability, relationship strain and health issues.

Social isolation: Avoiding human interaction is another way people deal with worry and stress, especially if they also are coping with anxiety and depression. Like with substance abuse, this can actually increase your stress levels. Social isolation and loneliness can lead to adverse health consequences, including poor sleep quality, impaired executive function, accelerated cognitive decline, poor cardiovascular function and impaired immunity.

Less physical activity: Since stress impacts motivation and focus, it often can lead to a decrease in exercise. However, physical activity can be a great way to reduce stress. It reduces stress hormones and stimulates the production of endorphins, which can help you relax &

SOURCES: MAYO CLINIC, NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH

TAKE A BEAUTY BREAK

by stephanie wallace

SOMETIMES, YOU JUST NEED A BREAK. THANKFULLY, THE GAP BETWEEN WELLNESS AND BEAUTY IS CLOSING EVERY DAY. REACHING FOR PRODUCTS THAT ALSO BENEFIT YOUR PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELLBEING ALLOWS YOU TO TAKE A MOMENT TO UNWIND AND DECOMPRESS— ALL WHILE WORKING ON LOOKING AND FEELING YOUR BEST.

1. CHILL PILLS ouai

Scented with rose and jasmine, these bath bombs are designed to mellow you out. Plus, it’s great for your skin thanks to a combination of infused oils. There’s jojoba seed oil to moisturize, safflower seed oil to help improve texture and hemp seed oil to calm and soften.

$30 FROM THEOUAI.COM

2. FLORAL RECOVERY CALMING MASK fresh

Thanks to some flower power this overnight mask calms signs of skin sensitivity while you sleep. Its formula includes passionflower oil and cornflower water to calm and soothe, peony and cherry blossom to improve tone and texture, and squalene and victim C to smooth and soften.

$69 FROM FRESH.COM

3. EMERALD DEEP MOISTURE GLOW OIL herbivore

Soothe and reset your skin with this vegan face oil. It uses full-spectrum cannabidiol (CBD) and hemp oils to deliver nourishing and moisturizing amino acids. The formula also includes adaptogens like shiitake mushrooms and ashwagandha root, which are known to help the body cope with stress and restore balance.

$50 FROM HERBIVOREBOTANICALS.COM

4. MIGHTY NIGHT hum

Less stress starts with better sleep. This supplement uses valerian root, passion flower and hops to promote deeper sleep. While you’re catching some Z's, ceramides, ferulic acid and coenzyme Q10 promote cell turnover and work to reduce the signs of aging caused by free radical damage. Talk about beauty sleep!

$40 FROM HUMNUTRITION.COM

5. SLEEP STONE LOTION BAR

kate mcleod

This lotion bar delivers an instant dose of calm. Thanks to lavender and chamomile, it helps you wind down while shea butter and sweet almond, apricot kernel, avocado and fractionated coconut oils moisturize and nourish skin. To apply, warm the bar in your hands and then glide along areas that need moisturization.

$45 FROM KATEMCLEOD.COM

from the agents »

THIS MAGNIFICENT

4.76 ACRE ESTATE IS IN THE HEART OF LADUE! “

T & S HOME

9755 OLD WARSON ROAD, LADUE

by stephanie wallace

PRICE | $4,250,000

LISTING AGENTS | ANN WROTH AND HOLLY BRY AGENCY | GLADYS MANION REAL ESTATE PHONE | 314.440.0212 | 314.276.7727 | 314.721.4755

from the homeowner »

Sitting on 4.76 acres, 9755 Old Warson Road has the air of stately country estate. It’s hard to believe that it’s nestled in Ladue. It combines the space and natural beauty of rural living with the convenience of an urban setting. The current homeowner has loved living in the home. “It will be tough to leave,” she notes. “Every time I return home, it’s always so nice to be back.”

What do you like about the home’s location?

You can’t beat the location. It’s like living in the country in the heart of the city. It’s very secluded and private, but you also can walk to Old Warson Country Club. Ladue has access to just about everywhere—you’re five minutes from Clayton and 12 from downtown.

Do you have a favorite room or space?

It’s just fun to walk through the house. Every room is very detailed. There are a lot of windows, so there is plenty of natural light. Many of the rooms also have fireplaces, which I always thought was neat. The home was built around 1926, so it’s almost a century home. They don’t build houses like this anymore. When people come over, they tell me they feel like they’re at a French or English estate.

How is the home for entertaining?

It’s a great place to entertain. You can easily host 100 people with no problem. My husband and I would hold a lot of outdoor parties because we have a really lovely pool area.

There’s a barn with a kitchen, which is great if you want to have a catered event and keep the kitchen clear. The separate guest house has two bedrooms, a full bath, living area and kitchen. You can have company stay with you, and they can have their own space. It’s off the pool, so it also can be used as a pool house.

Tell me about the outdoor spaces.

The grounds are absolutely beautiful. It’s just like a country estate. There are extremely mature trees, and now with spring coming, everything will be blooming soon. All the seasons are lovely here. Having such a large, private lot is priceless.

What do you most want the next homeowner to know?

The best thing about the property is that it’s a lovely and peaceful place to live. You’ll discover a lot of surprises once you’re here. There are so many beautiful intricacies that you don’t notice at first. The home has not been on the market for nearly 50 years. It’s a rare opportunity to have a house like this. &

323 N. Forsyth Blvd. | Clayton | $2,399,000

4 BR | 4.5 Baths | 4 Car Garage

This Neoclassic inspired home is located in sought-after Clayton Gardens. This stately residence features all the modern amenities necessary for civilized living complete w/ elevator servicing all floors + a 4 car garage. Gracious entry foyer w/ Travertine floor, light-filled living room w/ custom bar, wine chiller, ice maker & 2 Sub-Zero fridge drawers. French doors open to private veranda overlooking the back yard w/ waterfall, & frplc., ideal for al fresco dining. Epicurean kitchen w/ Sub-Zero & Bosch appliances, a Wolf 6-burner gas range w/ dbl ovens, granite counter tops, custom cabinets, large island w/ prep sink opens to family rm w/ beamed ceiling, bookcases, frplc., casual dining area + counter seating. 1st floor features a bdrm w/ full bath. Large primary suite w/ gas frplc., vaulted ceiling & custom fitted 19’ x 13’ walk-in closet. Spa-like bath w/ air-jet tub, dbl. vanities & walk-in shower. Finished LL complete w/ built-ins, full bath & wine cellar.

PICTURE THIS…

BLACK & WHITE

by lauren rechan

IT IS SO SIMPLE, YET SO IMPACTFUL. The pairing of black on white is as old as time, and yet it never goes out of style. While the way B&W has been used throughout the decades varies (think bold Marimekko prints in the ’60s versus buffalo check in the ’90s), today it is used less in patterns and more in tone on tone, reading as sophisticated and elegant. The pairing also is highly versatile, appearing in farmhouse, coastal, mid-century and contemporary homes alike.

If you have a good source of light in your office, try dark walls and white furniture for a soothing space.

Many think of black and white as contemporary, yet it can also be very traditional

Many would rip up these old Terrazzo floors, yet look at their huge impact.

High gloss black walls turn this small powder room into a jewel box.

A black lacquered library accents and black and white artwork catches the eye with its sophisticated look.

Don’t be afraid of using all white fabrics, just get a performance grade that wipes right up.

Clean black and white lines are making their way into kitchen designs as well.

The classic black and white striped awning still adds a certain panache to any patio.

Extra large B&W photography is a beautiful way to accentuate this color combo.

With its combination of contemporary and traditional, this bathroom is truly elegant.

This new look of metal and glass cabinets hung on wood or marble is stunning.

The black and white flooring is bold yet pays off big time in this living space.

Pair black and white casual decor with natural wood accents. Tip: Paint the inside of your front door black as well for high impact.

2048 Wilson Ridge Lane Chesterfield I Sold

1924 Windmoor Place Town and Country I Sold 10 Little Lane Ladue I Sold

801 South Skinker, Unit 16B St. Louis City I $1,400,000

147 Gay Avenue Clayton I $1,799,000

OVER 1.3 BILLION IN HOMES SOLD

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Amanda’s works hard for her clients. She hustles day and night. On top of that her company the Realty Shop has the slickest integrated technology I’ve ever used in a home transaction. The fact they have an integrated title company made everything super easy. We Love Amanda!

Amanda and the team at The Realty Shop were amazing. They were extremely knowledgeable, professional and responsive. They exceeded our expectations on the sale of our home, they sold our home $25,000 over list pricing. I would highly recommend The Realty Shop Team

volve Your Aesthetic

by stephanie wallace | photos from pinterest.com

Home design trends are always changing, so there’s no reason your domestic spaces should ever feel stale or mundane. Is it time for you to rethink your home’s aesthetic? We’ve got four trends that are making a splash on social media.

Are you a big fan of Tim Burton or ’90s shows like Buffythe VampireSlayer and Sabrina the TeenageWitch? Well whimsigoth may be the trending aesthetic for you. It mixes edgy gothic inspiration with warm jewel tones, greenery and a mystical touch. The end result is a space that sets a mood without dipping into the macabre. Like a lot of trending styles, it takes a more maximilist approach to design. Think antique furniture, bold patterned wallpaper, vintage art and deep moody color palettes— all layered together. To add that magical touch, display items like stones, driftwood, feathers and dried botanicals.

While the name may conjure images of hospitals or science labs, the clean room aesthetic is a TikTok trend about creating minimal, uncluttered spaces, usually bedrooms. It originated with before-and-after videos of people tidying their rooms. Rather than focused on a single style, this interior design approach is more about organization. Start by cleaning your room, and once things are in order, keep them that way with regular tidying and deep cleans. Aim for an almost hotel room-like aesthetic with crisp linens, uncluttered surfaces and minimal decor. Things like closet organizers, hampers and trays to display individual items are great investments if you’re looking to adopt the clean room lifestyle.

Fans of a minimalist look need not apply. With cluttercore, more is more. Popularized by Gen Z, this aesthetic fills your space with things that make you happy in a bit of an organized mess—whether that’s art, collectibles, books or even plants. Instead of a focus on selecting items that fit a certain design style, the idea is to spotlight the things you already own. The result is a cozy, personalized approach to interior design. It’s similar to maximalism in its approach, but is more tailored to an individual’s interests than making a statement by mixing colors, patterns and styles. Don’t be afraid to start by creating a few isolated spaces for display, like a gallery wall or bookshelf.

Cottagecore’s more rustic cousin, cabincore is all about bringing the experience of the great outdoors into your home. Think woodsy locales, roaring fires and cuddling up under a woolen blanket. To achieve the look, start with incorporating natural materials like wood, leather and plants. To create a cozy cabin vibe, layer textiles like flannels, chunky knits and faux furs. Don’t be afraid to embrace darker, moodier colors and lighting, and focus on an earthy color palette of warm neutrals like cream and brown mixed with pops of color, such as forest green, burnt orange and deep red. If you’ve got a fireplace, make it the focal point of your space through furniture placement and mantel decorations like candles and plants.

FROM THE BLOG OF...

STYLING FAUX BOTANICALS

Incorporating greenery into your home decor is an easy way to enhance the ambiance and beauty of any space. However, live plants come with the responsibility of upkeep and may not be suitable for every environment. That’s where faux botanicals come in, offering an effortless solution to bringing the natural beauty of plants into your home.

1. SCALE MATTERS—FIND THE PERFECT PROPORTION.

When selecting your faux florals or branches, consider the scale of the vase that you plan to display them in. A tall branch style works great in a larger vase, while a shorter floral stem is suitable for a shorter vase. Experiment with an oversized look by using a slightly larger scale than what you’re used to. Vases that are around one to three feet tall usually classify as floor vases, but they work as a perfect addition to scale within design. This change can bring a dramatic effect to a room as long as it’s not disproportionate to the space.

2. GET THE DESIGNER LOOK WITH LONG, BUDDING BRANCHES.

Opt for long, budding branches for a dramatic, designer-worthy effect. This works great on a console table against a wall or in the middle of a round foyer table in a larger entry. We love this look on a kitchen island or dining table too, but it is best saved for a special occasion as it limits functionality of a space.

3. DON’T FORGET TO ZHUZH.

Faux botanicals can look great right out of the package, but they’ll look even better once you take the time to finesse your branches and stems so they’re fuller and look even more realistic. Pull each small stem from the main branch and bend them into a more organic shape to create unique character for each stem and to give you a more authentic arrangement. This is especially important for long, budding branches.

4. QUALITY IS KEY.

In all great designs, there are areas to save and splurge. When it comes to faux greenery and florals, keep future-you happy and invest in a higher quality option. Greenery and florals are often the final detail brought into a space that makes it truly sing. It’s the first thing guests will notice and often what you’ll be looking at most when in your own home. Not to mention, higher quality materials will last longer when properly cared for.

5. FIND BALANCE.

Consider scale and color as you’re bringing different faux florals and stems into the same space. We love to pair a short, bushy stem for areas like a coffee or side table, dining table or kitchen island, while we opt for using longer, branch-like stems on a sideboard or console table. In addition, opting for a pop of color with one set of florals will be balanced by a neutral palette for another. &

SCOUT & NIMBLE IS A RETAIL SITE AND BLOG THAT AIMS TO MAKE EXPERT DESIGN ACCESSIBLE TO ALL. FOLLOW AT BLOG.SCOUTANDNIMBLE.COM.

SOLD!

2013 Kehrs Mill Road

$805,000 | Pr/SqFt: $214.27

Delhougne Realty Group

Agent: Blake McNabb

322 Willow Weald Path

$862,000 | Pr/SqFt: $243.99

Berkshire Hathaway

HomeServices Alliance

Real Estate

Agent: Lynnsie Kantor

1616 Soft Rush Court

$1,625,000 | Pr/SqFt: $350.97

Keller Williams

Realty Chesterfield

Agent: Nick McGeehon

63011

364 Meadowbrook Country Club Estate

$1,421,563 | Pr/SqFt: $361.44

Coldwell Banker Realty - Gundaker

Agent: Mary Beth Benes

63017

267 Stablestone Drive

$540,000 | Pr/SqFt: $194.31

Berkshire Hathaway

HomeServices Select Properties

Agent: Alicia Cop 63105

8025 Maryland Ave., No. 8J

$770,000 | Pr/SqFt: $516.43

Dielmann Sotheby’s

International Realty

Agent: Suzie Wells

26 Arundel Place

$1,175,000 | Pr/SqFt: $343.07

Redfin Real Estate

Agent: Stayce Mayfield

215 Brighton Way

$1,275,000 | Pr/SqFt: $384.15

Dielmann Sotheby’s

International Realty

Agent: Ted Wight

63108

5150 Westminster Place

$710,000 | Pr/SqFt: $273.08

Coldwell Banker Realty - Gundaker

Agents: Amy and Paul Mittelstadt

6 W. Pine Court

$820,000 | Pr/SqFt: $318.82

Keller Williams Realty St. Louis

Agent: Joanne Balis

232 N. Kingshighway Blvd., No. 1104

$1,295,000 | Pr/SqFt: $611.71

Coldwell Banker Realty - Gundaker

Agent: Kenny Reinhold

63119

8564 Big Bend Blvd.

$635,000 | Pr/SqFt: $328.85

Coldwell Banker Realty - Gundaker

Agent: Mary Brown

63122

801 Hawbrook Road

$725,000 | Pr/SqFt: $280.46

Berkshire Hathaway

HomeServices Alliance

Real Estate

Agent: Luanne Zwolak

427 Venneman Ave.

$775,000 | Pr/SqFt: $354.85

Janet McAfee Real Estate

Agent: Laurie Busch

721 Simmons Ave.

$1,075,000 | Pr/SqFt: $421.24

Janet McAfee Real Estate

Agent: Alex Thornhill

705 W. Essex Ave.

$1,179,900 | Pr/SqFt: $373.03

Laura McCarthy Real Estate

Agent: Helen Costello

63124

33 Willow Hill Road

$1,300,000 | Pr/SqFt: $351.83

Janet McAfee Real Estate

Agent: Wayne Norwood

10 Little Lane

$1,365,000 | Pr/SqFt: $339.72

Janet McAfee Real Estate

Agent: Martin Lammert

11 Greenbriar Drive

$2,300,000 | Pr/SqFt: $523.68

RedKey Realty Leader

Agent: Anne Dunajcik

63130

7143 Kingsbury Blvd.

$620,000 | Pr/SqFt: $190.77

Gladys Manion Real Estate

Agent: Carol Butler

63131

10534 Conway Road

$515,000 | Pr/SqFt: $211.67

Coldwell Banker Realty - Gundaker

Agent: Jody Parrish

3035 Thornbury Drive

$808,000 | Pr/SqFt: $241.34

Keller Williams

Realty Chesterfield

Agent: Julie Otto

1924 Windmoor Place

$900,000 | Pr/SqFt: $294.89

Janet McAfee Real Estate

Agent: Ryan Goldstein

1715 Mason Knoll Road

$1,160,000 | Pr/SqFt: $323.12

Berkshire Hathaway

HomeServices Select Properties

Agent: Alicia Cop

2301 N. Ballas Road

$1,288,000 | Pr/SqFt: $265.79

EXP Realty Agents: The Gellman Team

2 Vandiver Lane

$3,149,000 | Pr/SqFt: $525.97

Coldwell Banker Realty - Gundaker

Agent: Mary Beth Benes

63141

2 Middlebrook Lane

$800,000 | Pr/SqFt: $243.98

Re/Max Results Real Estate

Agent: Mary Krummenacher

12403 Bentley View Court

$830,000 | Pr/SqFt: $186.47

Berkshire Hathaway

HomeServices Select Properties

Agent: Kyle Thompson

12 Spoede Lane

$1,900,000 | Pr/SqFt: $399.41

Berkshire Hathaway

HomeServices Alliance

Real Estate Agent: Diane Patershuk

63144

42 Middlesex Drive $770,000 | Pr/SqFt: $255.98

HOMEWORK

MAR. 2, 2016

DEAR HOMEWORK,

We would like to tackle the exterior of our Webster home. The dull, brown color scheme is hideous; the front structure is awkward; and the exposed concrete wall beneath the windowed porch is an eyesore.

I adore the New England color schemes on so many houses these days: warm grays, white-trimmed windows and black shutters. The brick: to paint or not to paint? We have so many ideas for the exterior, like building dormers on a third story, building a porch with a double front door, adding a circle drive to the yard, landscaping the wall beneath the windowed porch, and on and on. We simply don’t know where to begin.

Please help us give our warm and lovely home the exterior it deserves.

Sincerely,

DEAR COMPLETE THE PICTURE,

Your submission allows me to make a point to our readers about foundation planting, which is that sometimes you don’t need any and sometimes you need a lot.

In this case, the brick of the main section of the house extends all the way to the ground line and therefore does not necessarily need to be modified. On the other hand, the foundation of the sunroom is a disaster, and needs to be completely hidden. In other words, in this situation, the foundation planting is all in the wrong place.

That said, your desire for a more New England look can easily be achieved. If you want gray siding, the brick should be white washed to blend better with the siding. I show a solid, white picket fence to hide the sunroom foundation, as well as upgraded landscaping to pull the parts together. A new circle drive would look fine with this scheme. A better detailed entry porch is the final touch to make the picture complete.

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.

APRIL 19

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