Contents
august 2009 | vol. 6 | issue 8
50 cover story 48. the all-star sessions
Sheryl Crow rocked her hometown and kicked off the All-Star Game celebrations while raising money for cancer research.
42
features 50. h oward’s homecoming
MLB power hitter and STL native Ryan Howard returns home with an All-Star mission.
52. do good!
1 01+ ways to give back, lend a hand and make a difference in St. Louis.
78. City Living Guide
The ultimate resource for renting or buying a loft, condo or apartment in St. Louis.
fashion 42. go ask alice
This season, fashion tells a romantic, fantastic storybook tale.
86
48
departments 10. From The Publishing team 12. From The Editor 15. Contributors 20. Social Scene
32. STYLE Of-the-moment jeans for every body type.
34. JEWELRY This season, fine jewelry bridges international waters.
36. INTERVIEW Q+A with “American Idol” contestant David Gokey.
38. LIVING Eat light without sacrificing taste with an impressive dinner from Schnucks Cooks.
STLnow menu 22. STL NOW 7 things you must do this month. 84. DINING OUT Bravo! Cucina Italiana is well-deserving of applause. 24. CALENDAR Green Day, Mary Poppins and Lupe Fiasco. 86. NIGHTLIFE Chi Sushi is a bright spot 26. SCENE A peek at Mosaic’s new on the sushi scene. on the COVER Sheryl Crow Photo by Robert Ascroft/CPi Syndication ALIVE, August 2009, Volume 6, Issue 8 (Periodical #025095) is published monthly by ALIVE Media Group, L.L.C., 50 Maryland Plaza, Fourth Floor, St. Louis, MO 63108. Periodicals Postage paid at St. Louis, MO, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ALIVE, 50 Maryland Plaza, Fourth Floor, St. Louis, MO 63108. One-year subscription rate $12.00; two-year subscription rate $18.00. To order a subscription call, 314.446.4059 or log on to alivemag.com.
6 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
lounge and tips from the winner of ALIVE’s Top Bartender Contest.
28. HOT BLOCK Shop, dine and linger on The Boulevard.
30. STYLE The top trends to scoop up now and sport post-summer.
scene 106. SCENE IN ST. LOUIS Caught on camera at The Pepper Lounge, HOME and The Boulevard.
alivemag.com
EVENTS Want to Expand Your Network??? Join Us to Watch the Cards Wednesday, August 26, 6-8pm Old Rock House, 1200 S. 7th Street, 63104 Phantom Unmasked Monday, October 5, 6-10pm 1851 Schoettler Rd, 63017 Have a Holiday Blast Thursday, December 3, 6-8pm Moxy Bistro 4584 Laclede Ave, 63108 Casino Night in January 2010
Tips for Successful Business Networking Presented by James G. Wolf, President HRMC/The Delta Institute Sponsored by Human Resources Management Corporation/ The Delta Institute Saturday, September 26, 2009 (9:00 am until 12:00 Noon)
Resume Writing - How to Market Yourself through Your Resume Presented by Sheryl Watts
Ms. Watts covers the resume terrain from format to job search. Sponsored by Human Resources Management Corporation/ The Delta Institute Saturday, November 7th (9:00 am until 12:00 Noon) These lectures are geared toward anyone wanting to enhance their prospects of obtaining a better position. Whether you are a college student or an experienced professional this series of lectures will benefit you. FEES: • $20.00 for Young Professional Members • $30.00 for Non-Members All proceeds donated to JDRF. For ticket information, email ypjdrf@gmail.com
They’re Young AND Restless Membership Benefits • Meet and network (socially and professionally) with other high-achieving members of the community. • Attend our JDRF YP Career Development Series. • Enjoy status events with high media visibility. • Charitable giving elevates your profile, gives you the competitive advantage with customers and vendors. Let everyone know you have a social conscience. • Help raise funds to accelerate discovery, development and delivery of therapeutics to improve the lives of millions of children and adults with diabetes.
Left to right: Michelle Ragan (Fundraising and Development), Mark Green (Vice President), Mandi Hill (Secretary), Ralph Loos and Heather Lasher Todd (Marketing and Communications), Katherine Arnold (Treasurer), Thanda Meehan (President) and Marie Davis (Executive Director) of the JDRF Metro Saint Louis/Greater Missouri Chapter.
As a Young Professional of JDRF you will help realize our goals: to cure, treat and ultimately prevent diabetes. Contact Young Professionals of JDRF today: ypjdrf@gmail.com Thanda Meehan, President Mark Green, Vice President
Publisher / Co-founder: Elizabeth Tucker Editor-in-Chief / Co-founder: Attilio D’Agostino Executive Editor / Co-founder: Kelly Hamilton Managing Editor: Cristy Miller Fashion Editor: Jill Manoff Associate Editor: Sheniqua Faulkner
Publisher / Co-founder
Elizabeth Tucker
Contributing Writers
Kristin Stefek Brashares, Amy De La Hunt, Natalie Kurz, Jennifer Dulin Wiley Art
Art Director: Annette Gleason Creative Consultant: David Hsia Contributing Photographers
Advertising
Senior Account Executive: Jill Gubin Account Executives: Katie Bruno, Brigid Dorsey
Editor-in-Chief / Co-founder
Attilio D’Agostino
business
Business Director & Distribution Manager: Lindsey Heintz MARKETING
Sales & Marketing Representative Jason Nichols Marketing & Events Coordinator: Jill Schroeder Interns
Jennica Abrams, Tanya Apostolova, Kathleen Bauer, Belma Begic, Amanda Branco, Molly Brandt, Jessica Bremer, Katrina Brodsky, Dana Carroll, Magan Chan, Kris Cunningham, Kelly DiRie, Moira Dorsey, Amanda Gabbert, Samm Hammel, Chastidy Harper, Kim Harrison, Amy Horan, Nicholas Jacobs, Nicole Johnson, Summer Johnson, Taylor Johnson, Erica Jordan, Dana Kelley, Jessie King, Kendall Klingler, Karli Kopp, Jillian Kyle, Melissa Lumley, Jennifer Neal, Chelsey Orlando, Ashley Reh, Kelly Richardson, Racquel Russel, Roshni Sahah, Tanya Schiller, Autumn Sij, Katie Stephens, Carrie Sullivan, Pamela Thomas, Marisol Tirado, Ezell Trice, Allison Tripolitis, Allison Vollmar ALIVE Magazine
Clayton 8220 Forsyth Blvd. 314.721.4230 Chesterfield 17057 Baxter Rd. 636.449.1583 dmsalon.com 8 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
50 Maryland Plaza St. Louis, MO 63108 Tel: 314.446.4059 Fax: 314.446.4052 Sales: 314.446.4056 alivemag.com
Executive Editor / Co-founder
Kelly Hamilton
Managing Editor
Cristy Miller
HOME DELIVERY
To subscribe to ALIVE, call us at 314.446.4059 or go to alivemag.com. ADVERTISING
For advertising rates and information, call us at 314.446.4056. advertising@alivemag.com © 2009 ALIVE Media Group, LLC.
Fashion Editor
Jill Manoff alivemag.com
Kelly Hamilton and Cristy Miller photographed by Bob Pitts; Elizabeth Tucker, Attilio D’Agostino and Jill Manoff photographed by Rick Gould
Tuan Lee, Josh Monken, Liz Reiff Sloan
letter from the alive publishing team
Sheniqua Faulkner & Cristy Miller at ALIVE’s 2009 Hot List Party.
In Wonderland Excited by the season’s fairytale frocks, we were inspired to write our own story about these whimsical looks, which have the power to transition from golden summer days to enchanted fall evenings. We envisioned an idyllic Midwest carnival unfolded on green pastures and encircled by tall forests. Meramec Community Fair organizer Leslie Borgmeyer helped grant our wishes. Turn to page 42 to discover the magical beauty of Mother model Amanda Strutman as Alice in Wonderland created by the Lowery family’s traveling carnival. You’ll be inspired to visit the charming fairgrounds nestled against City Lake in Sullivan, MO.
Attilio D’Agostino, Michael Drummond, Jamie Kelley, Angie Rathjen, Ronda Sciarra & Eddie Garnica at ULTRA. Kelly Hamilton, Carissa Sweigart, Katie Bruno & Tonya Amos at ULTRA.
Closer to home, our summer nights have been jam-packed with parties and hot events. We kicked off June with our annual Hot List Party (check out a few of our favorite party pics from the event, right). We continued the summer fun at “B” Seen on the Boulevard and joined PR maven Cheresse Pentella, Greg and Melissa Bohlmann and socialista Jamie Kelley at the biannual event. Attendees explored the oneof-a-kind urban shopping village while enjoying eats from nearby restaurants and sipping drinks from Pearl, Chandler Hill Vineyards and AB. We ended the month with a bang at the ultimate VIP party, Girl Friday’s ULTRA, where over 800 revelers converged on Novak’s patio to celebrate the 30th anniversary of St. Louis Pride Fest, including Kacie Starr Triplett, Darin Slyman and Carissa Sweigart. Gay and straight allies alike, such as Dennis Duncan, State Senator Jeff Smith, Gilberto Pinela, Jacob Laws and Michael Drummond, enjoyed Twisted Tea and Miller Lite throughout the evening. The ULTRA VIP party topped off a very successful Pride Fest, which drew thousands to St. Louis to celebrate our LGBT community.
Jason Nichols & Wendy and Michael Harris at ALIVE’s 2009 Hot List Party.
This month, join us at Connect With…The Arts event at Black Label on Thursday, August 13. For more info and to purchase tickets, log on to alivemag.com.
Attilio D’Agostino
Elizabeth Tucker
Matt Handler, Jessica Young & Elizabeth Tucker at ALIVE’s 2009 Hot List Party.
10 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
alivemag.com
LIQUID STYLE
STYLE. ELEGANCE. SOPHISTICATION. All the allure of modern Italy, perfectly captured in a bottle of wine. A cultural icon in the worlds of both fashion and wine, Ecco Domani combines sleek style with contemporary winemaking to craft cutting-edge wines with an Italian flair.
alivemag.com
11 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
letter from the editor
GIVE A LITTLE BIT
In July, St. Louis was not only a baseball-crazed town; it was
also a very charitable one. As we go to press on our first Charity Issue, St. Louis is fresh off the heels of All-Star Summer, which was one exciting week of events for St. Louis for more reasons than one. The events surrounding Major League Baseball’s signature event celebrating baseball’s favorite athletes brought an estimated 60 million tourism dollars into the region and raised millions for charitable causes—the charitable initiatives of this year’s All-Star Summer were actually the most extensive in MLB history. There were a couple things that made the week especially exciting for us. First was the chance to sit down with Sheryl Crow before her All-Star Charity Concert performance under the Arch, which raised $1 million for Stand Up To Cancer. I was personally very thrilled with the opportunity to interview this local girl made superstar. She not only holds a special place in my coming-of-age high school days’ soundtrack; she continues to represent independence, female strength and rocker talent. Over the last 15 years, the Missouri-born musician has become known internationally for her outspokenness for causes she believes in, from breast cancer research to the environment. Simply put, Sheryl’s a badass. So needless to say, she’s topped my interview wish list for a while. I was happy that she was everything you would think she’d be—down-to-earth, passionate and open. Not to mention totally gorgeous. We also had the opportunity to celebrate the launch of St. Louisan Ryan Howard’s new foundation. The Lafayette High School grad— who now serves as first baseman for the Philadelphia Phillies, returned to his hometown for a star-studded kickoff party at Lumen for The Ryan Howard Family Foundation on the eve of the All-Star Game. Find out more about his charity on p.50.
12 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
Giving back is something our city knows all about—about 30 percent of St. Louisans give their time to charitable causes and dedicate approximately 85 million hours a year to volunteer work. Whether it’s donating our time or pulling out our pocketbooks, we find ways to give to hundreds of local charity organizations. Whether you’re already on the boards of several orgs or looking to take the first step toward volunteering, we’ve compiled a list (“Do Good!,” p.52) of over 100 organizations where you can have an impact. While space wouldn’t allow us to be completely comprehensive, we hope it gives both existing and aspiring do-gooders all the info they’d need to get involved at any level. We hope you enjoy the issue—and the feeling you’ll get after some time spent helping others.
Kelly Hamilton Executive Editor & Co-founder kelly@alivemag.com
alivemag.com
Common path of a diamond SALE Common path of a diamond SALE
Diamond Mine ($)
Diamond Cutter ($$)
Wholesaler ($$$)
Retail Store ($$$$)
You The Buyer ($$$$$)
path of a diamond SALE path of a diamond SALE DIAMOND CUTTING CENTER (ISRAEL) DIAMOND CUTTING CENTER (ISRAEL)
Diamond Mine
Chris & Angela Malo, St. Louis
BUY DIRECTLY FROM ME BUY FROM ME SAVEDIRECTLY THOUSANDS! SAVE THOUSANDS! Engagement Rings · Diamond Studs · Tennis Bracelets Engagement Rings · Diamond Studs · Tennis Bracelets
CALL 314.909.6818 CALL 314.909.6818
200 South Kirkwood Road · The corner of Kirkwood & Madison · www.MavrikJewelry.com 13 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009 To meet one of our diamond experts call today 314.909.6818
alivemag.com
Looking Young at any Age… How do you get: A Perfectly Balanced Face… Youthful Eyes… Naturally Kissable Lips… Lose the Cellulite… Fight the Fat… And, Get Rid of the Red & Sun-damaged Skin?
Answer: Call for a free consultation and let us show you how! Purchase a SmoothShapes® Package and receive a $100 American Express gift card! Fall Open House Wednesday, Nov. 4, 1–7 pm
Richard A. Bligh, MD Board Certified Internal Medicine Board Certified Anti-Aging Medicine 777 S. New Ballas Rd, Suite 200E St. Louis, MO 63141 www.drbilghmd.com
314.994.1536
14 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
alivemag.com
contributors David Hsia
NICK JACOBS
TAYLOR JOHNSON
amy de la hunt
David Hsia photo by Tuan Lee; Nick Jacobs and Taylor Johnson photos by Jillian Marie Kyle. Amy De La Hunt photo by Katie Clancy.
It’s all in the details for David Hsia. The way some people take machinery apart to discover how it works, Hsia deconstructs all things creative, down to the angular sharpness on the letter “A.” Hsia’s work in design blurs boundaries between high and low culture; from a sneaker boutique in L.A. to The Studio Museum in Harlem. As Creative Consultant, Hsia (Shaw, like the park) is helping bolster the look and feel of ALIVE.
As a new St. Louis resident, Taylor Johnson had to get familiar with the city fast to assist in compiling research for this month’s charity feature (“Do Good!,” p.52 ). The small-town Ohio native is enjoying exploring the city and all it has to offer, especially its hometown stars, the Cardinals.
alivemag.com
Between preparing for his senior year of college at Webster University and doing a mean karaoke version of Lady Gaga’s “Pokerface” every Tuesday night, designer Nick Jacobs spent hours upon hours in the office as the lead design intern for ALIVE. This St. Louis native kept busy this issue learning the ropes of magazine design, and his talents were put to work on this month’s feature,“Do Good!” (p.52). Follow him on Twitter, twitter.com/ lostarts411.
Amy De La Hunt’s exploration of St. Louis’ nonprofit scene (“Do Good!,” p. 52) introduced her to an entire spectrum of volunteer opportunities—and as she researched, she kept a running list of ways she can include her sons, ages 6 and 3, so they, too, learn the rewards of donating time to help others. In addition to writing about restaurants and nightlife for ALIVE and Gayot.com, she recently became contributing editor at St. Louis Kids Magazine and started working on her first feature article for Missouri Life.
aliveaccess
advertising | promotion | events | opportunities
THE EYE BAR GRAND OPENING PARTY May 15 With the help of event planner extraordinaire Tiffany Butler with Let’s Make Memories, The Eye Bar packed their new CWE store for a five-star grand opening event that unveiled three new-to-St. Louis eyewear collections. The energy was high as guests mingled, tried on specs and captured the fun in CI Photobooth’s interactive photo booth. Photos courtesy of The Eye Bar.
Michael & Gayle Eastman
Eric & Jessie Scott
WAVE TACO GRAND OPENING party June 13
LinkSkin
Partygoers and volleyball enthusiasts alike flocked to the official grand opening of Wave Taco, where pros Wayne Scot and Colleen Hunter had attendees on the edge of their seats during intense doubles matches. Additionally, guests enjoyed complimentary tacos, Bud Light Lime, Land Shark and Michelob beers and took pleasure in stress-free spa treatments on site courtesy of Berman Chiropractic & Wellness, Natural Spa & Nail and Invidia Salon & Spa. Wave Taco owners John Carroll, Larry Fuse Jr., Beau Reinberg and Tim Van Rhein invite one and all to enjoy fresh tacos, beer, volleyball and fun where the city meets the sand (1335 Convention Plaza, Downtown). Photos by Katherine Bish, courtesy of CheresseINK.
The worlds first recycled Eyewear
UPCOMING EVENT Summer Fusion
the
eye bar
401 N Euclid St. Loius MO 36108 314.367.1848 www.TheEyeBar.net Hours: Tues–Sat 11–7, Sun 12–5
Join honorary host Heidi Glaus and the Young Friends of Independence Center on Sunday, August 16 at 5pm for Summer Fusion, a party that combines fabulous food and a lineup of performances from pop/rock band Fundamental Elements, the acoustic reggae sounds of Mario Pascal and one of St. Louis’ most popular local DJs, DJ Needles. Guests will enjoy dinner from executive chef Rex Hale of McCormick & Schmick’s and desserts from pastry chef Kenda Morado of Reggie’s Backstage. All proceeds benefit Independence Center, a community-based rehabilitation program for adults with severe and persistent mental illnesses in the St. Louis area. Tickets on sale at independencecenter.org or 314.880.5403.
401 N Euclid St. Louis MO 314.367.1848 www.westendeyes.net
alivemag.com
Look Younger…Feel Better at Every Angle
f ac e a b s
d m in im al do w nt PROLIPO ith qu ick re su lts an fo r fat re duct ion w d st re tch marks CHANGES s such as cellulite an lem ob pr on mm co r fo TM Sk inTyte ut hf ul loo ki ng sk in fo r fir me r, mo re yo TM
e FACIALS fe eli ng yo u de se rv fo r th at pam pe re d TM M ICROLASER PEEL th ier, mo re vib ra nt sk in al fo r smoo th er, he TM d te xt urePROF RACTIONAL ovemen t in w rin kles, sc ars, to ne an pr im ic at am fo r dr w nt ime w ith lit tle to no do
le g s AL LASE R HAIR REMOv un wa nted ha ir fo r ea sy re mo va l of TM vE LASMOOTH aran ce of ce llu lite to smoo th th e appe AL LASE R vE IN REMOvve in s ly ht sig to re duce un
ime
e ye s ®
BOTOx ows fe et fo r w rin kles an d cr TM AL MAk EUP ER IN M E l co lor an d be au ty AL ED IR JANE lling ou t its natu ra pu by e ey e th g in fo r enha nc TM
EY Ez an d da rk circle s fo r droo ping eyelids
INTMENT !
OU R AP PO Y E L U D E H C S O T ALL NOW
C
alivemag.com
12401 Olive Blvd., Suite 100 Creve Coeur, MO 63141 314.275.7300 • www.paddainstitute.com 17 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
aliveaccess
advertising | promotion | events | opportunities
Susan Lynn’s Grand Opening party June 10 Over 200 fashionistas came out to celebrate the official grand opening of Susan Lynn’s new location in Town & Country Crossing. Shoppers enjoyed the arrival of new summer lines as well as complimentary designer desserts provided by Whole Foods and Chef on The Run. The complimentary bar included select wines, Michelob Ultra Fruit-Infused Beer and BORBA Skin Balance Water as well as appetizers from Napoli 2. One lucky guest won the “Susan’s Closet” Best Dressed Award and received a $500 shopping spree to the store. A portion of the proceeds from the evening benefited The St. Louis Crisis Nursery. Photo courtesy of West Newsmagazine.
Ebonee Shaw, DiAnne Mueller, Susan Luina, Sheila Sellenriek, Bonnie Define & Alicia Tlapek
Hot Contest >> Sexy & Successful 2009 ALIVE is searching for young professionals who are savvy, sexy and successful, and we need you to help. Log on to alivemag.com/ sexyandsuccessful to vote for your favorite. The top four finalists will be announced in September and will be featured in an upcoming issue of ALIVE. Stay tuned for the results!
VOTE NOW! 2009
ALIVE MAGAZINE IS SEARCHING FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS WHO ARE THE “TOTAL PACKAGE”–SEXY, SAVVY AND SUCCESSFUL–AND WE WANT YOU TO CHOOSE! LOG ON TO ALIVEMAG.COM/SEXYANDSUCCESSFUL TO NOMINATE YOUR CANDIDATE.
alivemag.com
alivemag.com
19 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
socialscene The Drunken Fish’s Sixth Anniversary Party June 6> In celebration of six years of amazing sushi and nightlife, The Drunken Fish marked its anniversary with a blowout bash. The restaurant, known for setting the standard for blending world-class food with amazing nightlife, invited guests to party until midnight with cocktails and food specials—including the Japanese art of “naked sushi” known as nyotaimori. Music from DJ ECHO, DJ SlantE and the band Broke kept guests entertained inside and on the outdoor patio. Partygoers who weren’t ready to head home continued the celebration until 3am downstairs at The Drunken Fish’s sister venue, XES nightclub. Photos by Egan O’Keefe
Dave Langdon, Andrea Bellinger & Chris Gilliam
Opening in local theaters August 21st Advance ticket sales and information can be found at www.streetballersthemovie.com
Bootcamp in Forest Park Hosted by Robbie Garrison Danielle Gant & Kenna Jenkins
WIN A FREE MONTH OF BOOTCAMP
Michelle & Robert Tsuchiya
Andrea Fox, Matt Heil, Lindsay Posmanick & Justin Mueller
by texting “BC” to 41513
Don't wait for New Years resolutions to get in shape! This bootcamp will be based on techniques used in Robbie's 1-on-1 personal training to deliver optimal results, at a fraction of the price. Using a brand new interval training system, benefits of this bootcamp will be 4-20lbs of fat loss, 1-5% body fat reduction, 1-3 inches from your waist, increased cardiovascular and muscular endurance, and increased well-being. This is a boot camp like no other! Everyone is welcome - from the out of shape to the fitness buff - it will be challenging AND beneficial for all! Camps will be 3-4 days a week, 1 hour long. No more spending hours in the gym hoping you did enough work and achieving little results. Nutritional advice and guidance will also be provided. This isn't a fitness or diet craze it's a permanent lifestyle change for the better! Robbie is a ISSA Certified Fitness Trainer, ex-military and fitness boot camp instructor. He has just implemented a revolutionary new music interval training system tailor made for fitness boot camps to deliver unparalleled intensity, motivation, and results for his clients. Interval training is scientifically proven to burn nine times more body fat than ordinary exercise.
Text “BC” to 41513 for more info and visit www.mommemakeover.com/bootcamp *Results will vary and will be based on each attendee’s commitment to attending all scheduled camps AND proper nutrition.
Jeff and Jackie Schaffer & Jeanne and Keith George
alivemag.com
alivemag.com
21 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
stl now
7
things you must do this month
1
Idols Live! If you can’t wait for the next season
of “American Idol,” never fear: The top 10 contestants from season eight join forces for the show’s annual “American Idols Live!” tour this summer, and will make a stop in The Lou. Don’t miss the chance to see your favorite contestants—including finalists Danny Gokey, Adam Lambert and season winner Kris Allen—perform at the Scottrade Center August 29. Time: 7pm. Cost: $38-$67. F or more info or to purchase tickets, log on to ticketmaster.com (1401 Clark Ave., Downtown).
Welcome to the Neighborhood!
3
BALLIN’
It’s been three years since the rumors of a Downtown Schnucks started percolating among city residents—and this month, it’s official. The new Culinaria-A Schnucks Market is set to open on August 11 on 9th St. across from the Old Post Office. The new city market will offer delivery and more freshly prepared foods in a smaller space than the traditional supermarket and also features a pharmacy. St. Louis City dwellers couldn’t be happier.
Local filmmaker (and 2009 ALIVE Buzz Lister) Matt Krentz’ indie film Streetballers won over audiences and critics during the St. Louis International Film Festival, the Hollywood Black Film Festival and other festivals across the U.S. The film, shot and cast entirely in St. Louis, chronicles the struggles and the forged bond between two junior college basketball players, one Irish-American (played by Krentz), one African-American (played by former Mizzou star Jimmy McKinney). Streetballers opens August 21 at the Tivoli Theatre in The Loop and Wehrenberg’s Ronnies 20 Cine in South County and will hit theaters in select cities soon thereafter. For more info on the film, log on to
streetballersthemovie.com.
22 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
4
Bag It!
On August 8 from 10am-4pm, the Summer Cash & Carry Boutique Warehouse Sale will feature designer clothing, shoes and accessories from labels such as Tory Burch, Free People, Joe’s Jeans and Milly marked down as much as 90 percent off of the retail price from local clothiers including Daisy Clover, Ivy Hill, Pulse and Susan Lynn’s. For a $10 donation to Family Resource Center and The Humane Society, die-hard shoppers can receive a “first peek” from 10am-1pm and enjoy complimentary refreshments including select wines and beer (1 The Boulevard, Richmond Heights). For more information, contact CheresseINK at 314.374.1055.
5
Sip to Support
On August 27, quench your summer thirst for a good cause. Coffeehouses, bars and clubs participating in Saint Louis Effort For AIDS’ annual Thirst For Life fundraising campaign will donate from 20 to 100 percent of their profits on this day to PAWS (Pets Are Wonderful Support), a charity assisting HIV/AIDS patients who may be forced to choose between pet care or their own food, rent or basic necessities. For more info,
log onto stlefa.org.
6
Back by Popular Demand
Downtown Restaurant Week returns for its fifth year the week of August 3-August 9. DRW, presented by Lumière Place Casino & Hotels and Terrazas de los Andes, has grown to 25 dining destinations and attracts more diners every year, last year topping 15,000. There are no passes to buy, coupons to carry or cards to punch; patrons simply attend the restaurant of their choice and select from a special threecourse dinner menu for $25 per person. For a list of participating restaurants and more info, log on to downtownrestaurantweek.net.
7
Get Connected
Join ALIVE Magazine and Connect With…, the young professionals collaborative, for Connect With…The Arts on August 13. This arts-centric event will feature live music, cultural performances and interactive artists creating one-of-a-kind pieces on-site at Black Label Gallery Lounge, located in the emerging artist district of Chouteau’s Landing. Time: 5:30pm-11pm; live performances from 5:30pm-8pm. Cost: $10 in advance, $15 at the door. For more info or to purchase tickets,
log on to alivemag.com (758 S. Fourth St., Downtown).
alivemag.com
Photo by Craig DeCristo
2
alivemag.com
23 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
agenda
Calendar: August This month’s St. Louis arts, culture and entertainment agenda. By Kristen Stefek Brashares
Green Day rocks Scottrade Center August 11.
ANN CODDINGTON RAST: ENDLESS SKY Through August 22, The Sheldon Art Galleries
VISUAL ARTS ART D TOUR August 7, various locations
Art addicts rejoice—the St. Louis Artists’ Guild and ArtDimensions of St. Louis are collaborating once again for the nine-stop shuttle tour of the city’s finest art institutions, including The Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts, The Sheldon Art Galleries and Craft Alliance. Cap off the evening with an after-party complete with appetizers, door prizes, music and live art at the Boathouse in Forest Park. The shuttle departs from the Saint Louis Art Museum. Tickets cost $10 in advance, $15 the day of the event For more info, call 314.497.5356. 24-HOUR CURE: PHOTOGRAPHERS MAKING A DIFFERENCE Through August 15, The Sheldon Art Galleries
See St. Louis like never before through the lenses of top area photographers who present a pro-bono project to raise money for the American Diabetes Association through the sale of striking city-life snapshots. For more info, visit sheldonconcerthall.org or call 314.533.9900 (3648 Washington Blvd., Grand Center). MARCEL DUCHAMP: CHESSMASTER Through August 16, Saint Louis University Museum of Art
America’s top baseball town turns its attention to another sport through a special exhibit on a French avant-garde artist turned chess enthusiast. View Duchamp’s notable works along with inventive chess-set designs by artists of the Dada and Surrealist movements. For more info, visit slu.edu or call 314.977.2666 (3663 Lindell Blvd., Midtown). key
Outdoor Free
24 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
This Illinois-based artist borrows from the traditional craft of basketry to intertwine her beliefs and experiences into a contemporary sculptural exploration of the interaction of the human body and the mind. For more info, visit sheldonconcerthall.org or call 314.533.9900 (3648 Washington Blvd., Grand Center). ANSEL ADAMS IN YOSEMITE Through September 13, Saint Louis Art Museum
Captivated by Yosemite National Park’s breathtaking beauty since his first visit as a teenager in 1916, this legendary photographer’s documentation of the American West is displayed in a presentation of nine prints. For more info, visit slam.org or call 314.721.0072 (1 Fine Arts Dr., Forest Park). THEATRE WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE’S MACBETH Through August 1, Old Post Office Plaza
Shake up the same-old, same-old evening-out routine with two totally new experiences: a unique spin on Shakespeare’s famous Scottish play by an all-female Slightly Askew Theatre Ensemble cast in Downtown’s recently renovated outdoor gathering space. For more info, visit slightlyoff.org or call 314.835.7415 (834 Locust St., Downtown). MARY POPPINS August 13-30, Fox Theatre
Powerful performances by actress Ashley Brown as the world’s most famous nanny and actor Gavin Lee as her chimney-sweep pal are the spoonfuls of sugar that help this
straight-from-Broadway show go down in the most delightful way. Cost: $28-$75. Tickets on sale at metrotix.com or 314.534.1111 (527 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center). MUSIC LIVE ON THE LEVEE—LUPE FIASCO August 1, Downtown St. Louis
Hailed as one of hip-hop’s rising stars by big names like Jay-Z, this Midwest-born master wordsmith wraps up the city’s free summer concert series under the Arch. For more info, visit celebratestlouis.org or call 314.434.3434 (Downtown). GREEN DAY August 11, Scottrade Center
Hot off their newly released, three-years-inthe-making “21st Century Breakdown” album, America’s prized punk-rock trio enlists Scottish rock sensation Franz Ferdinand as the opener of a high-powered performance that promises to give fans the time of their lives—or at least the summer. Cost: $22.50-$47. Tickets on sale at ticketmaster.com or 314.241.1888 (1401 Clark Ave., Downtown). COMEDY COMEDY STAGE MATCH Every Wednesday in August, The Stable
Native St. Louis actor Bill Chott (“SNL,” “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” The Ringer) hosts a sidesplitting battle of comedic wit between two powerhouse improv teams at the city’s hottest new brewery. Suggested donation: $10. For more info, visit theimprovtrick.com or call 314.922.1998 (1821 Cherokee St., Benton Park).
Hot Pick Charity
alivemag.com
Left photo courtesy of Brian Fagnani and 24-Hour Cure; Right photo courtesy of Scottrade Center.
24-Hour Cure photographers make a difference in St. Louis.
CENTRAL INSTITUTE FOR HUMAN PERFORMANCE RESULTS. NO EXCUSES. CIHP client Steven Jackson, NFL Running Back WHO ARE YOUR CLIENTS? We work with everyone from professional athletes to stay at home moms. Our high performance approach only requires a desire to improve and a commitment to change. WHAT IS ONE OF THE THINGS THAT MAKES CIHP DIFFERENT? Our broad, international base of knowledge and experience. At CIHP, we insist on continued education for our physicians, coaches and staff. For over twenty years from Prague to Australia, we have been teaching and learning
to be better at what we do. Because of this unique blend of knowledge and experience, we can often resolve long standing pain conditions and improve performance where clients have previously failed. Go to www.cihp.com to learn more.
We supply the knowledge and service to make this happen for any individual who is ready to commit.
WHY DO PEOPLE COME TO CIHP? People today are searching for progressive, non-pharmaceutical ways to treat pain, stay healthy and live strong. There are more and more individuals that not only want to feel good, they want to be great.
Dr. Clayton Skaggs, CIHP Medical Director (right) with CIHP clients Al & Marsha Rheinnecker
1099 MILWAUKEE STREET, SUITE 150, KIRKWOOD, MO 63122 | 314.822.1001 | WWW.CIHP.COM alivemag.com
25 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
scene
Mosaic Debuts Downtown Lounge
{ MIXologist }
ALIVE’s 2009 Top Bartender
This new lounge is another piece in Mosaic’s work of art. By Amy de la Hunt | Photo by Josh Monken
> Instead of expanding his popular Washington Avenue fusion tapas restaurant by simply adding another dining room, Claus Schmitz turned the 2,500-foot annexed space into a lounge that, by day, is a sleek extension of the restaurant. But on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, the venue cranks up the tunes from the DJ booth and the tables make way for a wide-open space where people can dance and mingle until 3am. Late-Night Tapas Unlike the many clubs that skip food altogether, Mosaic decided to keep its tempting tapas. In fact, the late-night menu, available until 2:30am, is more or less a concentrated version of the dining room menu. The opportunity to sit down while you eat makes the bottle-service booths that line the west wall all the more attractive. The lounge marks the first move in a series of expansions of the Mosaic concept—also in the works are a steak-and-seafood tapas restaurant, an airport version of the current restaurant and a proposed venture into the retail business, a new lifestyle and fine food store. Looks as if all the pieces of this hotspot’s brand are fitting nicely into place (1001 Washington Ave., Downtown, 314.621.6001).
Flamingo Bowl bartender Roy Richardson beat out five other contenders at our annual bartender contest in April and took home the $500 prize and the title of ALIVE’s 2009 Top Bartender. This industry veteran—with over 10 years experience tending bar—recommends the Pomegranate Pomade as the perfect summer drink.
Pomegranate Pomade Enjoy your own award-winning cocktail at home with Roy’s favorite Pearl Vodka cocktail recipe.
The bar scene at the new Mosaic Lounge.
Hit the Spot The In Spot, a new dessert bar and lounge debuted late last month on Delmar Blvd. The place features an array of gourmet desserts, wine and selected savory items like sandwiches and kabobs (5854 Delmar Blvd., 314.454.6969).
On the Move Later this month, Mango Peruvian Restaurant will relocate to the space formerly occupied by Mosaic Downtown. The restaurant will feature the same menu (with a few new items) and vibe as its previous Shrewsbury location.
26 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
2 lemon and 2 lime wedges 2.5 oz. Pearl Pomegranate 1 oz. sour mix 2 Tbsp. fresh-squeezed lemon juice 1 Tbsp. simple syrup Muddle the lemons and limes in a cocktail shaker. Add the remaining ingredients and shake well with ice. Pour into a glass and garnish with a lemon wedge.
Roy’s Fall Drink Pick Blue Moon’s Harvest Moon Pumpkin Ale, a full-bodied ale brewed from early September to late November.
Parkside Dining Terrace View, a new Mediterranean café located inside Downtown’s new Citygarden sculpture park, is now open. The Crossing’s and Acero’s Jim Fiala runs this charming spot, which seats 50 indoors and 50 outside and will be open Mon.–Sat.
alivemag.com
So much can be said with a smile.
Help us make it contagious!
“Thanks to New Age Dental Care I now have a beautiful white smile that I am no longer afraid to show, more confidence than ever and I feel great about myself!” ~Gary K.
Veneers INVISALIGN® Relaxation/ Sedation Implants Dr. Kardaris, E
before
after These results in Just 2 Visits!
Dr. Kardaris and her staff offer the latest in technology, comfort and personalized care!
Call TODAY !
636-449-0215
www.StlDentalCare.com
SSOCIATES OF ST. LOUIS explore vard
Hot Block: The Boulevard
GALLERIA OF JEWELRY vard
> The Boulevard’s mix of locally owned stores, well-known national chains, eateries and a luxury living community offers a unique shopping experience in St. Louis. Visitors can spend the day traversing Main Street for shopping deals while residents can take advantage of having it all right outside their front door.
An alternative to indoor mall shopping, The Boulevard is St. Louis’ al fresco lifestyle village.
By Sheniqua Faulkner | Photos by Jillian Kyle ’S LITTLE ITALY ard
{ More To Explore }
AMES SALON vard
GALLERIA PARKWAY
Can’t-miss hot stops on The Boulevard.
TEAKS vard
2 4 6
THE BOULEVARD
SOUTH BRENTWOOD BLVD.
1
URO.BAKERY+CAFÉ EVARD
5
3
BRIDES BY DEMeTRIOS 19 The Boulevard 314.963.9800
EYE CARE ASSOCIATES OF ST. LOUIS 15 The Boulevard 314.863.4200
lunch and dinner items such as crepes, paninis and soups. Grab a fresh espresso drink and continue shopping or linger over a glass of wine.
28 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
JARED THE GALLERIA OF JEWELRY 21 The Boulevard 314.721.5029 MAGGIANO’S LITTLE ITALY 2 The Boulevard 314.824.2402 MITCHELL JAMES SALON 35 The Boulevard 314.863.3448
ROUNDINGS vard 2
3
ARCHETYPES 28 The Boulevard 314.862.3989
CRATE & BARREL 1 The Boulevard 314.725.6380
The Boulevard is the place to find contemporary and affordable furniture and Wall-to-wall E BACKhousewares. with luxe bedding, kitchen vard tools and more, Crate & Barrel has everything you could possibly need to add form and function to your home.
ARCHETYPES This locally owned shop offers unique gift items that are sure to impress even the most discerning recipient (even if that recipient is yourself), including purses, handmade soaps, candles and jewelry as well as home accessories.
ALLEGRO LOFTS 24 The Boulevard, Ste. 230 314.721.8300 ANN TAYLOR LOFT 34 The Boulevard 314.726.5622
1 G’S CHINA BISTRO CRATE & BARREL vard Crate & Barrel’s store at
BRIDES BY DEMETRIOS The bride-to-be will find her dream gown at this exclusive, full-service salon, featuring the entire RG CHILDREN Demetrios collection. vard No matter her style, from traditional to fashion-forward, Brides by Demetrios 16 has a stunning dress just for her.
Blvd. Bound
NADOZ EURO.BAKERY+CAFÉ 12 The Boulevard 314.726.3100 OMAHA STEAKS 18 The Boulevard 314.721.3870
4 JARED THE GALLERIA OF JEWELRY We dare you to leave Jared empty-handed. It will be a feat resisting Jared’s sparkling diamond, pearl and gemstone jewelry, including Jane Seymour’s Open Hearts and the famed Leo Diamond Collection. Wrap it up. We won’t tell… 5 NADOZ EURO. BAKERY+CAFÉ Refuel after a day of shopping on The Boulevard at Nadoz, a locally owned café that serves breakfast,
P.F. CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO 25 The Boulevard 314.862.2624
6 SOFT SURROUNDINGS Based in St. Louis, this national store caters to women seeking comfort and relaxation. Soft Surroundings offers cozy clothing perfect for lounging, plush bedding and top-of-the-line skinand haircare products that encourage you take time for yourself every day and enjoy a comfy life at home.
RELAX THE BACK 20 The Boulevard 314.727.4666 SOFT SURROUNDINGS 33 The Boulevard 314.262.4949 STRASBURG CHILDREN 26 The Boulevard 314.863.6840 Each month, ALIVE spotlights a hot STL block and the shopping, dining, nightlife and cultural destinations that make it a standout. Tell us why your block is hot at letters@alivemag.com. We could be coming to your neighborhood next!
alivemag.com
alivemag.com
29 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
style
Flatter Your Figure
The Best Jeans for Your Body Make the most of your curves—or lack thereof—in of-the-moment blues made for your frame. By Jill Manoff
Found in most every woman’s wardrobe, denim falls somewhere between skivvies and a little black dress on the scale of style essentials. Therefore, rather than be seen on a regular basis in blues made for another trendster’s tush, make it a point to shop with purpose. Study up on what jeans do your body type justice and scoop up a pair or two by one of today’s hottest designers. Just make sure to select a size that truly fits; a muffin top is never flattering.
Skinny Bitch
Bootylicious babe
Game Girl
If you are long and lean, two things: One, skinny jeans are your perfect style; two, we hate you.
A popular trend this season, widelegged jeans—which balance out curvy hips, thighs and derrieres—work best on pear-shaped bods.
Classic, boot-cut denim camouflages bulky calves and elongates muscular legs, making it fabulous for babes with athletic builds.
What’s hot where: Joe’s Jeans “Chelsea” (shown, $157) available at Elements of Denim, Clayton, 314.721.9022. AG Jeans “The Premiere” available at AG Adriano Goldschmied, Central West End, 314.361.6161. Levi’s 521 available at Macy’s, West County Center, 314.966.0017.
What’s hot where: AG Jeans “The Joey” (shown, $349) available at AG Adriano Goldschmied, Central West End, 314.361.6161. 7 For All Mankind “Ginger” available at Elements of Denim, Clayton, 314.721.9022. Fidelity “Hyacinth” available at Jecca, Clayton, 314.862.5322.
What’s hot where: Rock & Republic “Kasandra” (shown, $239) available at Jecca, Clayton, 314.862.5322. Citizens of Humanity “Kelly” available at Elements of Denim, Clayton, 314.721.9022. Lucky Brand Jeans “Classic Rider” available at Macy’s, West County Center, 314.966.0017.
As Seen On
As Seen On
Kim Kardashian
Jessica Biel Denim photos by Josh Monken.
As Seen On
Nicole Richie
30 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
alivemag.com
“One of the best films to come out of St. Louis.” -Chris Clark, St. Louis International Film Festival
FILMED LOCALLY WITH AN ENTIRE CAST AND CREW FROM ST. LOUIS Opening in Select Theaters on August 21st Wehrenberg Ronnies 20 Cine
Landmark Tivoli Theatre
800-FANDANGO ext: 2401
(314) 995-6270
Advance ticket sales and information can be found at www.streetballersthemovie.com
get this look
1
The Essential Ensemble This Fall
Navy Seal A woman in uniform is sexy this season; invest in a military-inspired topper. Millard Fillmore outerwear available at Daisy Clover, Webster Groves, 314.962.4477.
When combined, the five hottest trends of next season make one fabulous look. By Jill Manoff
> Those in the fashion know are aware that the key to stellar seasonal
style is to shop fresh, updated versions of favorite go-to staples. For autumn, this translates to investing in classics—from wool peacoats to leather totes—that designers have made of-the-moment by meshing with the latest trends. From masculine military elements to feminine ruffles and lace, stay au courant and maintain your fashion cred in the cooled-down months to come.
2 S h o p Tal k
3
Skirt The Issue Play with proportion, starting with a flirty, flippy mini with ample volume. Jenny Han separates available at Blush, Kirkwood, 314.965.4411.
Sweet Treat If you liked the look of the Balmain S/S ‘09 collection, you’ll love Bakers’ new rocker-chic Rock & Candy by Zigi collection; think stud-embellished flats and ’80s-inspired ankle boots. Available in select Bakers stores and at bakersshoes.com later this month.
Fill In The Blank Ever since jeans went supertrendy, luxe denim lovers have been bewildered—to splurge or not to splurge? Buy Blank, fabulous and affordable blues in styles ranging from traditional to today’s tie-dyed and boyfriend styles, and feel confident getting the look for less. Now available at Byrd Style Lounge, Clayton, 314.721.0766.
Get Terry-ed Away Worn by such stars as Carmen Electra, Shannon Doherty and Melanie Griffith, the BY TERRY line—known for luxe makeup—has recently expanded. Shop the new innovative, effective Rose Radiance BY TERRY Skin Collection Line exclusively at Wish Shoes (Ladue, 314.432.0800).
32 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
4
To Have and To Hold A timely tote—large, in luxe leather—will carry you through fall. Big Buddha handbags available at Ivy Hill, Central West End, 314.367.7004.
+
5
Get The Boot Anchor your look with hot peep-toe booties, made hardcore for fall with studs or hardware. Jessica Simpson footwear available at Macy’s, West County Center, 314.966.0017.
alivemag.com
Photos courtesy of Big Buddha, Millard Fillmore, Jessica Simpson Collections, Anthropologie (Liefsdottir) and Jenny Han.
news } { fa sh io n
Sheer Leaders Soften the edge of the season’s structured pieces with peeks of ladylike lace. Leifsdottir separates available at Susan Lynn’s Town & Country, 636.530.7337.
Demko Schuler with Dr. Jackie Essay winner Kaitlyn
EssAy WinnER Hi my name is Kaitlyn
Demko Orthodontics Presents
Schuler. I am 11 years old and a straight A stude nt at Fort Zumwalt W est Middle School. I watch the news everyday an d heard about the Code Smile Braces giveawa y on KSDK. The reason I want and need brac es are my teeth are very very bad and my mou th hurts all the time. I do not ever smile cause I don’t want anyone to see what my teeth look like. I want to be a video ga me designer after I gra duate high school and co llege, but with my tee th I would never be able to speak to customers . I think that when I talk to people all they see is my teeth and I don’t like th at. If you could help m e I would be very very ha ppy. Thank you, Kaitlyn Schuler
Dr. Jacqueline A. Demko announced on April 15, 2009 at Amini’s Home Rugs & Game Room .
images by After Four Photographics
was an inspired event for parents and young adults to collaborate on the social pressures that modern families face today.
Heather Hank & Jackie Demko
McGraw Milhaven speaks to the crowd
David Vobora
“Watch how a smile creates confidence”
alivemag.com
14377 Woodlake Dr # 216 · Chesterfield, MO 63017 · (314) 576-4955 demkosmiles.com
33 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
jewelry
Tribal Treasures
Beautiful and intricate in detail, the latest luxe jewelry is exotic, with a range of influences from around the globe.
1
By Jill Manoff | Photo by Josh Monken
> If jewelry designers’ inklings prove true, the sagging economy will
leave women hungrier for that one special piece. For Spring/Summer ‘09, the industry’s trendsetters threw caution to the wind and introduced a treasure-trove of unabashed statement pieces, tribal in influence and unphased by climatic pressures to simplify. Marc Jacobs piled on tribal-art jewelry at Louis Vuitton, including over-the-top hoops and ornate, leopard-print bracelets; Edward Enninful relied on tribal pieces to add an edge to the “urban, cleaned and refined” clothes at Alessandro Dell’Acqua. We discovered this exotic trend at two local jewelers—and their selections made one thing clear: The tribal-elegant trend won’t be voted off the fashion island any time soon.
2
4
3
5
1. Yossi Harari 24K gold “butterfly” bead necklace, $10,000. Available at Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers, Clayton, 314.863.8820, heffern.com. 34 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
2. Carved gold vermeil choker, $120. Available at S. King Collection, 314.881.5050, skingcollection.com.
3. 18K gold earrings with pink tourmaline and hand-painted enamel, $2,950. Available at S. King Collection, 314.881.5050, skingcollection.com.
4. 18K gold ring with citrine center stone, $870. Available at S. King Collection, 314.881.5050, skingcollection.com.
5. Maija Neimanis 22K gold ear clips set with aquamarines and peridots, $3,575. Available at Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers, Clayton, 314.863.8820, heffern.com. alivemag.com
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK A Program of the Regional Business Council
JOIN the RBC Young Professionals Network Open to professionals of color under 40 in St. Louis-area companies. Members enjoy social, professional and community opportunities as they build their regional network. The Regional Business Council is a consortium of 100 CEOs representing some of the region’s largest companies. It is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse, talented workforce in the region.
The Young Professionals Network is a partnership with the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis and the United Way of Greater St. Louis. To learn more, please visit the Regional Business Council website: stlrbc.org/diversity.htm or email ypn@stlrbc.org.
interview
Ready, Set, Gokey Coming in third isn’t going to stop “American Idol” contestant Danny Gokey from pursuing his passion for music. By Natalie Kurz | Photo by Craig DeCristo
> Danny Gokey—who “American Idol” judges predicted would have a spot in the finale—first caught America’s attention with his tragic back-story—the 29-year-old church worship director auditioned just four weeks after his wife Sophia died while undergoing routine surgery for congenital heart disease. Next, Gokey garnered support due to his heartfelt camaraderie with fellow contestant and longtime friend Jamar Rogers, who Gokey credits with helping him through his tragedy and forcing him to the Kansas City auditions. Onstage, the boyishly handsome Milwaukee native became notorious for his stylish eyewear—Gokey admits to owning 50-60 pairs of designer glasses and is even rumored to be in the works to start his own line. Finally, in one of the most surprising results shows ever, was the night Gokey was shockingly eliminated just shy of making the final two—what was so unexpected was that the singer had never even been in “the bottom three,” which is reserved for the three singers with the lowest votes from the previous night. But the small defeat on “Idol” will not slow this passionate musician, who rolls into St. Louis’ Scottrade Center on August 29 as part of the 50-city “American Idols Live!” tour featuring the top 10 finalists. I caught up with the soulful singer by phone between rehearsals to get his perspective on the “Idol” experience, the judges and the tough weekly task of choosing a song. alive: What was the most valuable lesson you learned being a part of “American Idol?” Danny Gokey: I learned that it’s okay to follow your dreams. It’s okay to rise up out of [a tragedy]. I took a lot of flak for that. But the lesson I learned is that if you want to come out of a situation like that, you have to make the decision to come out of it. That’s what I did. alive: Do you think your experience on “Idol” helped you heal? DG: Absolutely. It was something to take my focus off of the hurt. Something positive, even during a tragedy, can put everything into the right perspective. It would have been easy to fall into depression [if I didn’t audition]. Music reaches past every wall, every border. It’s the language of the heart. It really can heal you. alive: Which do you think was your strongest week? DG: The strongest week was with Jamie Foxx [also known as “Rat Pack week,” where Gokey sang “Come Rain or Come Shine”]. But my favorite week? One of the favorites was Michael Jackson week. Overall, it was just a great show. Who doesn’t love his music? alive: Can you tell us what songs you’re singing on tour? DG: I’m singing four solos and one group song. The first song is “What Hurts the Most” [by Rascal Flatts] and “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)” [by Michael Jackson], plus two others. ALIVE: How do you define yourself musically? DG: I just want to make good music. Music that’s relatable. I never got into music to become a mega-star. Or rich. It’s what I believe my purpose is. I’ve been singing gospel my whole life; I’m still working on who I am. I’ve only been doing [mainstream music] for six months. I haven’t defined [my style] yet. ALIVE: You’ve launched a foundation called Sophia’s Heart [to help disadvantaged children by providing medical relief, scholarships, food, shelter, clothing and even donating instruments to public schools that can’t afford them]. How is that going so far? DG: Very, very, very well. “American Idol” has really elevated that platform. I’m taking meetings and getting funding from people who would have never done this. Music and the foundation—those are my two passions. And hopefully success will follow because of my passion. 36 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
alivemag.com
alivemag.com
37 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
living
Twist on Tradition Schnucks Cooks proves that turkey isn’t just for holiday soirees. By Sheniqua Faulkner
When most people think of preparing turkey, they usually associate it with the holidays. You don’t have to wait till the end of the year to enjoy this versatile protein; the turkey breasts used in this recipe, created by Schnucks Cooks, are as easy to prepare—and just as healthy—as chicken breasts. The incorporation of tender mushrooms, flavorful artichoke hearts, bright
parsley and dry white wine enhance the flavor of the turkey while the the side dish, CrumbTopped Broiled Tomatoes, provides a unique texture and adds a beautiful punch of color to the plate. Present this turkey at your next dinner party, and your guests will surely give thanks, no matter what time of year you serve it.
{ recommended pairing }
MGD 64
Log on schnucksc to oo for more ks.com recipes
Scaloppine of Turkey alla Calabrese (Serves 4) What you need:
What to do:
• 1⁄4 cup Schnucks all-purpose flour
1. In pie plate or wide, shallow bowl, combine flour,
• 1⁄2 tsp plus 1⁄4 tsp salt • 1 package (about 1 pound) thin-sliced boneless,
skinless turkey breast for scaloppine • 2 tbsp Schnucks extra virgin olive oil • 1 package (8 ounces) sliced mushrooms • 1 can (14 oz.) Schnucks quartered artichoke hearts,
drained • 1⁄4 cup dry white wine • 1⁄3 cup loosely packed fresh parsley leaves,
coarsely chopped, plus additional for garnish
pepper and 1⁄2 teaspoon salt. Dip each slice of turkey in flour mixture to coat.
2. In 12-inch skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat until very hot but not smoking. Add turkey, in batches if necessary, and cook 6 to 8 minutes, turning once, or just until turkey loses its pink color throughout and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove turkey slices to plate as they are done; keep warm.
3. I n same skillet, cook mushrooms 5 minutes or until browned, stirring occasionally. Transfer mushrooms to the plate with turkey. Add artichoke hearts, wine, parsley and remaining 1⁄4 teaspoon salt to skillet; boil 1 minute, stirring to loosen browned bits from bottom of skillet. Return turkey and mushrooms with any juices on plate to skillet; heat through. Garnish turkey with additional parsley sprigs if desired.
Crumb-Topped Broiled Tomatoes (Serves 4) WHAT YOU NEED:
WHAT TO DO:
• 1 tbsp Schnucks butter
1. Preheat broiler with oven rack 5 to 7 inches from
• 1/4 cup freshly-grated Parmesan cheese • 1/4 cup Schnucks seasoned dried breadcrumbs • 2 medium tomatoes (about 10 oz. each), each
cut crosswise in half • 1/8 tsp salt • 1/8 tsp ground black pepper • 2 tsp Dijon mustard
38 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
source of heat. In small microwave-safe bowl or cup, heat butter in microwave oven on high 20 to 30 seconds or until melted. Add Parmesan and breadcrumbs and stir until well combined.
2. Place tomatoes, cut sides up, in jelly-roll or broiler pan; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Spread mustard evenly over tops of tomatoes. Broil 5 minutes. Remove pan from broiler; spoon breadcrumb mixture over tomato halves. Broil 2 to 3 minutes longer or just until tops are golden brown.
With the fewest calories of any beer on the market, Miller Genuine Draft 64 is a refreshing option for individuals who want to enjoy a light calorie beer without sacrificing taste or experience. MGD 64 goes through Miller’s cold-filter process, just like regular Miller Genuine Draft, so the taste is just as fresh and fulfilling. Serve MGD 64 with this breaded turkey dish and notice how the bright flavors of parsley and tomatoes are instantly enhanced as the salty flavors of artichoke, Parmesan cheese and Dijon mustard are tempered. So, go ahead, spring for seconds; when you serve MGD 64 with this meal, you can indulge without the guilt.
alivemag.com
Left photo courtesy of Schnucks; Right photo courtesy of Miller Brewing Co.
• 1⁄4 tsp ground black pepper
Carley Carley Guinn Guinn Lost Lost 25 25 lbs lbs and and a total total of of 32 32 3/4 3/4 in! in!
After
Before
• Personal Training • Core Conditioning
alivemag.com
• Massage Therapy • Sports Specific Training
• Improve Flexibility • Nutritional Counseling
10571 Old Olive Blvd. | St. Louis, MO 63141 314.993.EDGE (3343) | www.fitnessedge-stl.com
39 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
Betsey Johnson dress available at Jecca, Clayton, 314.862.5322. Bakers heels available at Bakers, Saint Louis Galleria, 314.725.6155. Jennifer Ouellette headband available at Valerie Mills, Clayton, 314.727.4545. Tarina Tarantino necklace available at Lusso, Clayton, 314.725.7205. Bracelets available at Alixandra Collections, Ladue, 314.997.2360. Ring available at Vie, Ladue, 314.997.0124.
42 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
alivemag.com
PHOTOGRAPHY ATTILIO D'AGOSTINO BOB PITTS STYLING JILL MANOFF MODEL AMANDA S. MOTHER MODEL MANAGEMENT HAIR DENISE GURGANUS MAKEUP DAWN STEMICH
alivemag.com
43 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
On Amanda: Shoshanna dress available at The Little Black Dress, Ladue, 314.993.6060. Bakers heels available at Bakers, Saint Louis Galleria, 314.725.6155. Headband, CC Skye cuff and ring available at Alixandra Collections, Ladue, 314.997.2360. Necklace available at Neiman Marcus, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9811. On Michael: Jacket, vest, shirt and bunny ears available at Remember Me Clothing & Costume Rental, Soulard, 314.773.1930. Bow, pants and boots, model’s own.
44 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
alivemag.com
Phoebe Couture dress, Christian Louboutin heels and ring available at Neiman Marcus, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9811. JustLiv headband available at justliv. etsy.com. Necklace available at The Little Black Dress, Ladue, 314.993.6060. Bracelet available at Vie, Ladue, 314.997.0124.
alivemag.com
45 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
LK by Laura Kathleen Planck dress available at laurakathleen.com. Bakers heels available at Bakers, Saint Louis Galleria, 314.725.6155. Jennifer Ouellette headband available at Valerie Mills, Clayton, 314.727.4545. Necklace (as brooch) available at Susan Lynn’s, Town & Country, 314.530.7337. Cuffs, stylist’s own.
46 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
alivemag.com
On Amanda: MICHAEL SHEAD EST. 1987 dress. Bakers heels available at Bakers, Saint Louis Galleria, 314.725.6155. JustLiv headband available at justliv. etsy.com. Necklace available at The Little Black Dress, Ladue, 314.993.6060. On Michael: Jacket, shirt, hat and boots available at Remember Me Clothing & Costume Rental, Soulard, 314.773.1930. Tutu (as collar) and cummerbund, stylist’s own.
Shot on location at the Meramec County Fair in Sullivan, MO, merameccommunityfair.com. Special thanks to Leslie Borgmeyer. Hair and makeup by Studio 703 Salon, Chesterfield, 636.536.6770, thestudio703.com. Additional model: Michael Shead as The White Rabbit and The Mad Hatter. Fashion Assistants: Kris Cunningham, Moira Dorsey, Samm Hammel, Nicole Johnson, Summer Johnson, Karli Kopp, Micaela Land, Rebecca Muehling, Autumn Sij and Katie Stephens. Photo assistant: Harvey Jackson.
alivemag.com
47 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
Photo courtesy of IGA.
48
>All-Star Act On July 11th, Sheryl Crow performed an All-Star charity concert under the Arch. Presented by Pepsi, the show featured a $1 million donation by Major League Baseball to Stand Up To Cancer, a program whose mission is to enable cutting-edge research to ultimately find a cure for cancer. The year-old charity has raised more than $100 million so far. 48 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
For more info or to donate to the cause, log on to standup2cancer.org.
alivemag.com
ALL-STAR SESSIONS
Sheryl Crow rocked her hometown and kicked off the All-Star Game celebrations while raising money for cancer research.
A
t one point or another, I [have] lived everywhere [in St. Louis],” Sheryl Crow told me in an interview the afternoon before her July 11th All-Star Summer kick-off concert on the riverfront. We sat in a suite at the Hyatt Regency downtown, which offered a fantastic view of the Arch grounds, where a crowd of 100,000 would gather the following evening to see Crow perform in her hometown.
Though she grew up in Kennett, Mo., threeand-a-half hours south of St. Louis, it was here that Crow’s career as a musician took off—after graduating from Mizzou in ’84, she moved to St. Louis to teach music at Kellison Elementary in Fenton, which afforded her the opportunity to pursue her music in local clubs at night. She also got gigs recording advertising jingles (her first was a back-to-school ad for Famous-Barr), which funded her move to Los Angeles in 1986. But it wasn’t her Midwest roots or her love for the Cardinals—of which she has much—that made performing at last month’s show so meaningful for the singer-songwriter. For her, it was mostly about the cause—the concert, while free to fans, came packaged with a hefty $1 million donation by Major League Baseball to Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C). Crow, who battled breast cancer three years ago after a routine mammogram revealed calcifications in both breasts, has since become a poster child for early detection and a spokesperson for breast cancer, which she says is a dubious honor. “While the experience wouldn’t be one I would’ve chosen for myself, I do feel like it’s a grand opportunity for me since I have a wide female base,” she told us. This summer, Major League Baseball also declared cancer as its cause, along with a dozen others, as part of its commitment to dedicating 2009 All-Star Summer to charitable initiatives and celebrating the importance of community service. Backed by sponsors such as State Farm, Bank of America, MasterCard and Pepsi, who all increased the money they gave to charities at this year’s event, the St. Louis extravaganza alivemag.com
By Kelly Hamilton became the most extensive charitable event in All-Star history. The concert streamed live on mlb.com, where viewers were asked to donate to Stand Up To Cancer, while Crow called on local fans to take action immediately. “I want you all to take out your cell phones and text STAND to 40202,” she told the crowd, just after her band played the hit song “Home.” “I know you have cell phones—you’ve been taking pictures of me. Take them out. You can help end cancer in my lifetime. And yours.” Throughout the night, Crow related to fans and showed lots of love for The Lou, sharing how she had to drag her band out of Lumière Place’s casino and admitting that she’s a Bud Light girl. On a personal note, she gave a shout out to MJ at the end of “Can’t Cry Anymore,” saying “That’s for you, Michael.” She got her first break as a backup singer for Michael Jackson and spent two years traveling with him on his “Bad” tour in the late ’80s. Just a few years later she would record “Tuesday Night Music Club,” which launched her into a new echelon as an international sensation, earning her her first three Grammys. Hit songs from that album, like “All I Wanna Do” and “Strong Enough” (which she fittingly dedicated to Albert Pujols), got the crowd pumped, although she didn’t have to do much to impress. At 47, she looks amazing—healthy, fit and happy. She’s been through a lot in the last several years—some of it tough (a crumbled relationship, her battle with breast cancer), and some of it uplifting (including the 2007 adoption of her now 2-year-old son Wyatt). Now after 15 years of recording, performing and earning the distinction as one of the Grammy’s most winning females, Crow is excited to use her celebrity to promote causes she believes in, having held concerts for breast cancer awareness, environmental causes and children’s charities. Major League Baseball saw Crow as the perfect performer to kick off All-Star Week in St. Louis—they asked her to participate at last year’s All-Star Game in New York, where she sang the National Anthem. “Sheryl Crow is a wonderful performer who deserves enormous credit for using her fame to shine a light on causes that are important to the health and welfare of our country,” said Baseball Commissioner Allen “Bud” Selig.
So she jumped at the chance to perform on the banks of the mighty Mississippi, where, during the concert, she said she “learned to water ski, where [she] learned to fear the rolling river and where [she] fell in love with it.” On those same banks at Mississippi Nights on Laclede’s Landing, Crow first played her hit “Leaving Las Vegas” two decades ago. “I hope I’m better now,” she said when playing in front of her fans under the Arch. And she is, in every sense of the phrase.
Q+A ALIVE: Where in St. Louis have you lived? SHERYL CROW: At one time or another I lived
everywhere. I lived in the Central West End. I lived in Georgetown Apartments in Webster Groves [when I taught school here after college]. After my first record, my manager and I moved back and put together a band made of St. Louis guys and lived in the Central West End above Left Bank Books.
ALIVE: This will be your second year in a row singing
the National Anthem at the All-Star Game. Do you ever get nervous singing it? SC: Yes, it’s the hardest song to sing. Absolutely. Thank God that in the last few years we’ve been using ear bud monitors. It used to be that you would have your voice come back to you in the stadium, so at least [with ear bud monitors] some of the sound is blocked. It was terrible because I would already be judging [myself]—like, “Oh my God, I didn’t sing that very well!” ALIVE: How has being a parent to your son Wyatt
[who she adopted in 2007] influenced how you approach your songwriting? SC: Gosh, let me tell you, the last record was a completely different experience for me [from the past]. He was 3 months old; we were in a war I was absolutely opposed to from the outset; I had been doing an immense amount of environmental work. I had also been in a relationship that had fallen apart [with Lance Armstrong]. I had just had breast cancer. All these things culminated with this little innocent 3-month-old in the bassinet next to me while I was writing. My sense of urgency was so heightened and my desire to really write from the most acutely honest place that I could write from was tantamount on that record. It was a record that was pointed; it was political; it was personal; it was heartbreaking; it was celebratory. 49 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
Photo courtesy of Synergy
OWARD’S OMECOMING By Jennifer Dulin Wiley
Major League power hitter Ryan Howard might be the Phillies’
ultimate offensive weapon,
but he’ll always be St. Louis’ home-grown-talent-turned-superstar
philanthropist.
I
nvolving St. Louis in the Foundation was a no-brainer because it’s my roots—it’s where it all began,” says Ryan Howard, the buzzy baseball player who returned to his hometown of St. Louis last month to launch his new charity, the Ryan Howard Family Foundation. Headquartered in St. Louis, the foundation aims to improve the lives of local disadvantaged youth (as well as kids in Philly). “If there’s a chance that I can help just one kid, and they can become the next big ball player or a doctor or a lawyer, it’s all worth it to me.”
stl Comeback The Foundation launch party—and a coveted spot on the National League’s 2009 All-Star Team—prompted Howard’s highprofile homecoming in mid-July, and gave him ample opportunity to spread the word about the Foundation’s mission to promote education and physical fitness through the support of scholarships and local community programs. The famed first baseman pulled out all the stops in celebration of his newly formed charity with The Ryan Howard All-Star Bash, held on July 13th at Lumen, featuring special guest performer DMC of legendary rap group Run-DMC and a Who’s Who guest list of local and national celebs (including Alyssa Milano, Derek Jeter and Will Witherspoon), who came out in support of an organization that Howard is proud to say is formed around absolutely everything he believes in.
for the love of the game Despite claiming Rookie of the Year in 2005, MVP in 2006 and the World Series and MLB Home Run and RBI Championships in 2008— not to mention becoming the fastest player in baseball history to reach 100 homeruns— Howard hasn’t forgotten the days he spent hitting rocks with a Wiffle Ball bat in his St. Louis backyard and worshipping star Cardinals players like Ozzie Smith, Willie McGee and Vince Coleman. Coaches of his alma maters (Lafayette High School and Missouri State University) immediately recognized his Major League potential—and the power of his million-dollar swing—but Howard assumed no guarantees, hitting the batting cages and the gym while others were hitting the bars. And although he’s since traded Wiffle Ball for the Majors and many more coveted titles—including the MLB Home Run Derby Champion and NL Hank Aaron Award (both in 2006)—Howard is thrilled to make the Foundation yet another reason (in addition to spending quality time with family and friends) to return to his hometown whenever possible.
>Baseball powerhouse and St. Louis native Ryan Howard
returned to the Lou last month with an All-Star mission: to celebrate the launch of his new charity, the Ryan Howard Family Foundation (howardsreach.org).
As for his next Major League move, Howard prefers to keep it simple. “It’s really all about the game for me,” he says. “I’m just happy to have the opportunity to play in the big leagues. My plan is to go out there and keep doing the best for my team and just see what happens next.”
51 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
Do Good!
101+ ways to give back, lend a hand and make a difference in St. Louis By Amy de la Hunt Additional research by Taylor Johnson Photos by Tuan Lee
Nearly 30 percent of St. Louisans donate time to a cause, from tutoring children to distributing food, manning fundraising booths or caring for animals. All told, we spent 85 million hours volunteering in 2007. And in a time of economic struggle, it’s important to give back—whether it’s donating your time or your dollars. Not sure where to start? Getting v involved is easy with our guide of organizations that can all use an extra set of hands.
52 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
alivemag.com
Help Find a Cure Empower those who are fighting to regain their health. Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center Located at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and the Wash U School of Medicine, Siteman is an international leader in cancer prevention, research and patient care. Siteman has more than 350 Washington University scientists and physicians providing care for nearly 8,000 newly diagnosed cancer patients each year and is recognized among the best cancer centers in the country by U.S. News and World Report. Local Impact: With facilities at Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital in Creve Coeur and BarnesJewish St. Peters Hospital in St. Charles County, the Siteman Cancer Center offers nationally recognized cancer care in convenient locations throughout the St. Louis area. Get Involved: The warmth and friendliness of volunteers are invaluable to cancer patients; volunteer or work behind the scenes (siteman.wustl.edu, 800.594.0417). Alzheimer’s Association Few diseases affect families like Alzheimer’s does. It’s estimated that 5.3 million Americans suffer from the degenerative brain disease, and their needs involve 9.9 million caregivers. The 38-county St. Louis Chapter alone serves 66,000 families. Local Impact: The St. Louis chapter spends 83 cents of every dollar to service local families—and 90 percent of chapter revenue comes directly from individuals and organizations in our community. Get Involved: Volunteers are needed for
administrative tasks and to organize the September 12 Memory Walk in St. Louis (alz.org/stl, 314.432.3422). American Cancer Society Cancer death rates are dropping, however, more than 1.47 million Americans will be diagnosed this year, and more than 560,000 of them will die. The Society’s goal is to eliminate cancer entirely, through medical research and preventive education. Local Impact: The new Hope Lodge in the Central West End serves as out-of-town cancer patients’ “home away from home.” It’s one of 27 such lodges around the country. Get Involved: Join the “Hope Lodge Heroes,” volunteers who pitch in at the facility, or participate in a Relay for Life walk (cancer.org, 314.286.8100). American Diabetes Association It’s estimated that eight percent of the U.S. population has diabetes, and about a quarter of them don’t know it yet. The inability to produce or properly use insulin can impact nearly anyone, and if left untreated can cause damage to the eyes, kidneys, nervous system and teeth. Local Impact: In addition to prevention and treatment, local ADA provides $4 million to about a dozen research projects at Saint Louis University and Washington University. Get Involved: Sign up for the ADA benefit Step Out: Walk to Fight Diabetes on October 10 or BAD Ride (Bikers Against Diabetes) September 27 (diabetes. org, 314.822.5490). American Heart Association Although the AHA invests $160 million in research each year, it’s also a valuable educator about health topics like weight loss, nutrition and CPR training. Since its inception in 1924, it has broadened its focus to include strokes, childhood heart disease and more
than a dozen other conditions. Local Impact: The top causes of death in Missouri are cardiovascular disease and strokes, and AHA is determined to reduce those deaths by 25 percent before 2010. Get Involved: Learn CPR, participate in the Heart Walk in Columbia, Mo., August 29, or ask your employer to get involved in the Start! corporate wellness program (americanheart.org, 314.692.5662). American Parkinson Disease Association With a dual goal of supporting research ($30 million in donations to date) and education ($25 million), the APDA is a lifeline for the 1.5 million Americans suffering from this disorder of the central nervous system. Local Impact: The St. Louis American Parkinson Disease Association Information and Referral Center is one of the largest in the country. Get Involved: Volunteers help organize two substantial fundraisers, a spring golf classic and a fall fashion show. The satellite resource center in Chesterfield also welcomes volunteers (stlapda.org, 314.362.3299). Colon Cancer Alliance Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among both men and women, and although it’s highly treatable, it’s often not caught in time, making it the second most deadly cancer. The CCA is committed to removing barriers to early detection as well as supporting medical research. Local Impact: The Gateway CCA coaxed 700 runners to Forest Park in March to brave the Undy 5000 5K run—in their underwear. The hardy athletes raised about $80,000, which was split between the local and national organizations. Get Involved: Opportunities include greeters to help patients at the Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center navigate the campus and, of course, next March’s Undy 5000 (ccalliance. org, 202.434.8980).
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Fifty years ago, a cystic fibrosis diagnosis meant a child might not live to attend elementary school. Although there’s still no cure, advances in treatment are allowing the 30,000 people with this hereditary chronic disease of the lungs and digestive system to live into their 30s and beyond. Local Impact: In Missouri, 613 CF patients receive treatment at six care centers. Children’s Hospital and Cardinal Glennon rank as two of the best clinics nationwide. Get Involved: The Gateway Chapter welcomes volunteers for the Jack Buck 40th Anniversary Golf Classic August 10, the Festiv-ale August 28, Wine Opener October 24, Bowl for Breath November 7 and Reach for a Star Gala November 13 (cff.org/chapters/gateway, 314.733.1241). Epilepsy Foundation of the St. Louis Region The Epilepsy Foundation wants to ensure that people with this medical condition that produces seizures—including 200,000 in our region—are able to live as normally as possible. Local Impact: In 2008 the foundation assisted more than 1,000 of the 17,509 people with epilepsy in eastern and southern Missouri. Its June Bowl-a-RAM-a event, supported by St. Louis Rams players, raised $30,000. Get Involved: Financial stability is a one of the top needs of those with epilepsy. The foundation is helping 40 percent of the people in its local employment program find work and supporting the 60 percent who currently have jobs (epilepsyfoundation.org/stlouis, 314.645.6969). Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Juvenile diabetes, also known as type 1 diabetes, is a chronic autoimmune disease that can shorten one’s life by 7-10 years. The JDRF awarded $158 million toward researching a cure in 2008. It also provides an
Volunteers build on-site for Habitat for Humanity.
alivemag.com
53 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
Over 66,000 cancer survivors, supporters and activists gathered Downtown for the 2009 Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in June.
all-important social network in schools, in communities and online for youngsters with type 1. Local Impact: In May, the JDRF’s annual gala raised a record-breaking $900,000 for the Metro St. Louis chapter. Get Involved: Join the Metro Saint Louis/ Greater Missouri Walk October 4 ( jdrfstl.org, 314.729.1846). The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Every 10 minutes, another child or adult loses the battle with leukemia, lymphoma or myeloma, cancers originating in the bone marrow or lymphatic tissues. The LLS strives to cure these diseases through drug, radiation and bone marrow treatments. Local Impact: St. Louis’ Gateway Chapter has given about $1 million to researchers, including eight at the Washington University School of Medicine. Get Involved: Children with leukemia strike a chord, motivating their peers to raise $285,000 at 350 local schools in this year’s Pennies for Patients campaign. The LLS’ Team in Training recruits athlete-fundraisers, and anyone in the community can join the annual Light The Night Walk held in September They also accept volunteers (lls.org, 314.878.0780). Muscular Dystrophy Association The list of diseases the MDA covers is daunting, but promising reports about advances including stem cell research, gene therapy and molecular treatment flow steadily from its 400 worldwide research projects. Local Impact: The MDA/ALS Center at the Washington University School of Medicine is among the 39 most elite MDA clinics around the nation for the extensive amount of research it performs for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s Disease) and the vast experience of its staff in dealing with the disease. Get Involved: Join the two million others who donate time, be it during telethons or as volunteer counselors at camps for kids age 6 to 17 (mda.org, 314.962.0023). National Kidney Foundation One in eight U.S. adults has chronic kidney disease. By supporting the foundation, you are helping these 26 million Americans improve their health and well-being, supporting kidney disease prevention and increasing the availability of organ and tissue 54 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
transplants. Local Impact: The local Kidney Walk in June raised $147,000, more than 80 percent of which goes directly to support NKF programs and services. Get Involved: Sample the chili from 50 competing teams at Westport Plaza September 26 at the annual Chili Fest (kidney.org, 314.961.2828). National Multiple Sclerosis Society Each week, American doctors diagnose 200 new cases of MS, a chronic disease of the central nervous system. Thanks in part to the MS Society’s research, new drugs and treatment methods are giving more than 400,000 Americans a shot at managing this unpredictable disease. Local Impact: The Gateway Area Chapter helps over 6,000 individuals in 90 counties with support services and educational programs. Get Involved: Walk in O’Fallon, IL, on August 22 (or participate in many other MS walks in the area) or bike in Columbia, Mo., September 12-13. There’s also an online listing of the many communications, outreach and service opportunities (gatewaymssociety.org, 314.781.9020). St. Louis Effort for AIDS Drug treatments for HIV/AIDS continue to improve, but misinformation and stigma about the virus remain. As one of the leading AIDS service organizations in the metropolitan area, the Saint Louis EFA provides education and support to those with HIV and AIDS—which affects St. Louisans at a rate of 8.2 AIDS infections per 100,000 people. Local Impact: EFA brings the national support program Shanti L.I.F.E. to gay and bisexual men with HIV/AIDS. Other services include case management and free HIV/AIDS testing. Get Involved: Whether your talents include working on computers, caring for pets, hosting a meal or public speaking, EFA has a role for you. And don’t forget to invite your friends to a participating restaurant during the National Dining Out For Life event next April and the local Thirst For Life event on August 27 (stlefa.org, 314.333.6660). St. Louis Ovarian Cancer Awareness Symptoms which can easily be ignored or overlooked mean that two-thirds of the 23,000 new
cases of ovarian cancer diagnosed each year will already be in the late stages, when the prognosis is much worse. SLOCA was founded seven years ago to educate women about this “silent” disease and support those already battling it. Local Impact: Two main events highlight SLOCA’s mission each year: The fall fashion show in September and the spring auction. Get Involved: Raise funds for support and research on September 27 at the ROC Star 5K (sloca.org, 314.995.6220). Susan G. Komen for the Cure Because one out of eight American women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, this national grassroots organization invests in screening, treatment, education and research. It also unites newly diagnosed patients with more than 1 million survivors and activists worldwide. Local Impact: Up to 75 percent of the net proceeds generated by the Komen St. Louis affiliate remain in the 18-county service area. Since 1999, that totals more than $11 million—not including the $3.25 million raised at this year’s Race for the Cure. Get Involved: Volunteer at or participate in the Race for the Cure, one of the three largest 5Ks in the world, with 66,470 participants this past June (komenstlouis.org, 314.569.3900).
Impact the Lives of Children Help put the next generation on a path to happiness. Angels’ Arms For children in foster care, the wait for a permanent home can seem eternal—especially when they’re separated from their siblings. Angels’ Arms offers temporary homes where up to 36 children at a time live in a family setting with their siblings. Local Impact: The charity has opened five homes in five years. More than 175 children have benefited from these peaceful, caring environments. Get
Involved: Donate items to the homes, become a Facebook fan, attend a social fundraising event, buy the cookbook or work on maintenance and repair projects (angelsarms.org, 314.726.6899). Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri The name says it all—“bigs” sign up for a one-year commitment to meet with “littles,” whom they treat as their own siblings, taking them on fun excursions or simply hanging out. Right now more than 500 children are waiting for a match. Local Impact: The local affiliate is 12th in size among all 470 affiliates across the country, serving more than 2,500 children and raising more than $500,000 annually. Get Involved: Companies can contribute by letting their employees be Big For A Day. There are also site-based programs at schools and workplaces (bbbsemo.org, 314.361.5900). Caring For Kids The needs that land people in Family Court are heartbreakingly simple: an apartment deposit, job loss or utility bills. That’s where CFK comes in. When court personnel identify a child’s need for essential or emergency resources, they notify the Family Court liaison. Local Impact: Family Court systems frequently turn to CFK—in St. Louis County alone, a typical month may see 1,300 children pass through the court. Get Involved: Volunteers process CFK help requests from court liaisons quickly, so needs can be met within 72 hours. Social butterflies can help with Night at the Moulin Rouge November 14 (caringforkids-stl.org, 314.726.5437). CASA of St. Louis County When a Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteer is assigned to an abused or neglected child in the Family Court system, he or she becomes a one-on-one advocate until the child is placed in a safe, permanent home. Local Impact: CASA’s 298 case-active volunteers changed the lives of 415 children in 2008 and are working to bring the total to 600 this year.Get Involved: CASA will train qualified applicants to become advocates. Volunteers also organize events like Smartypants Trivia and the 5K BLUE Skidoo (casastlcounty.org, 314.615.2908).
alivemag.com
St. Louis Children’s Hospital The award-winning 250-bed facility is the oldest pediatric hospital west of the Mississippi and consistently scores near the top in Parents magazine and U.S. News & World Report rankings. Each year 275,000 patients travel there to be treated by experts in organ transplantation, cochlear implants, burns, cleft palate and other critical conditions. Local Impact: Children’s community outreach focuses on keeping kids healthy with topics like weight loss, asthma, transportation safety, dental health and more. Get Involved: Students frequently volunteer at Children’s to earn graduation credit, but positions in the playroom, gift shop and information desk are open to adults too (stlouischildrens.org, 314.454.6145).
overcome the societal pressures and personal challenges they face. Local Impact: It’s the only St. Louis organization that serves girls on a continuous, day-to-day basis, with 300 participants in the summer and service to several North County schools during the rest of the year. Get Involved: Volunteers interact with and instruct the girls during after-school programs or summer camps (girlsincstl.org, 314.385.8088). Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri If your only contact with the GSEM is to buy cookies from one of its 65,000 members, you may be surprised to learn of its wide-ranging, girl-centric programs,
The Mayo Clinic Women’s HealthSource reports older people who volunteer have lower rates of heart disease and live longer than their peers who are not volunteering. (United Press International) Children’s Miracle Network of Greater St. Louis This organization raises money for St. Louis Children’s Hospital and Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center. Local Impact: Since 1988, they have equally divided more than $30 million between the two hospitals, helping them acquire programs and equipment and renovate facilities to meet the needs of area kids. Get Involved: With only four full-time staffers, it would be impossible to pull off 40 events per year—volunteer help is a must (cmn-stl.org, 314.434.6880). College Bound When high schoolers from under-resourced backgrounds contemplate a four-year college, this three-year-old organization helps them prepare and persevere through the sometimes difficult transition. To ensure their success, College Bound partners with local service organizations, school districts and eight local colleges and universities. Local Impact: All 39 of the first College Bound graduating class in 2008 matriculated to four-year colleges; 94.7 percent of this year’s class is enrolled full-time in college. Get Involved: AmeriCorps members with a bachelor’s degree can become College Coaches (collegeboundstl.org, 314.361.4441). Friends of Wings Friends of Wings supports the BJC Pediatric Hospice and Palliative Care Wings Program which provides care for children regardless of their ability to pay. In addition, children in the Wings program benefit from Expressive, Art and Music Therapy, all in the loving, familiar environment of their homes. The therapists have seen the value each of these programs has in easing the pain, fear and loneliness of this terrible journey. LOCAL IMPACT: This year, the Friends of Wings launched a $1 million campaign to support the Jennifer and Jim Koman Art Therapy Endowment to ensure that children well into the future will have the opportunity to express thoughts and feelings that might never be spoken through art, music, photography and more. GET INVOLVED: The Friends of Wings are continually adding to their group of dedicated supporters. The generosity of the community allow the Wings staff to continue to meet the growing need for care in our area (friendsofwings.com, 314.953.1895). Girls Inc. of St. Louis By cultivating the intellectual, spiritual and physical potential of girls ages 4 to 18, this 28-year-old organization annually helps 12,000 girls and young women 56 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
like preventing violence, promoting the exploration of math and science and improving financial savvy. Local Impact: The April 2008 collection drive of personal care items yielded 1.1 million items, which made up 99 percent of such products distributed at area food pantries and shelters. Get Involved: Some of the 17,000 adult volunteers are troop leaders, but some provide hands-on instruction— and others help organize sales of those beloved cookies (girlscoutsem.org, 314.592.2300). Greater St. Louis Area Council, Boy Scouts of America Getting outdoors is a central theme of Scouting, and attending one of the four local camps is an integral part of the experience for many of the region’s 56,000 members (boys and, in the teenage years, girls too). Local Impact: Scouting for Food started in 1985 and is now the nation’s largest one-day food drive, with two million items collected. Get Involved: Adults can be Merit Badge Counselors, Friends of Scouting fundraisers or leaders in one of the 1,100 units (stlbsa.org, 314.361.0600). Haven House St. Louis Families that travel more than 25 miles to receive care from one of 13 St. Louis-area hospitals can receive hotel-quality lodging, shuttle transportation for parents and siblings, and two meals each day for a nominal fee. The spacious house—there are four wings with seven rooms each, plus five second-floor bedroom/suites —has been serving families in this way since 2004. Local Impact: Haven House touches the lives of 7,000 people annually. Get Involved: Donate supplies from the online wish list, volunteer as a greeter or host family or become a member of the Young Friends Board (havenhousestl.org, 314.434.5858). LiveFeed Twenty percent of Missouri kids live with food insecurity, and many of them are under age 5, so they don’t eat at school. During the summer, older kids don’t either. This organization raises awareness of hunger by teaming up with hundreds of local bands and venues ranging from The Sheldon to Atomic Cowboy. Local Impact: A ticket stub on the homepage keeps a running total of food donated to date. In June that amount was nearly 51,000 pounds. Get Involved: Be part of the street team, recruit on college campuses, help with the homepage or pitch in with media production (livefeed.org, 314.732.4986).
Logos School Logos is an independent, alternative, therapeutic middle and high school that provides care to adolescents who struggle in a traditional school setting. It’s the only program in the area that provides individualized academics to the students. Local Impact: This year-round school has a student-teacher ratio of 6:1, plus 15 full-time licensed therapists. Since 1970, Logos has graduated more than 1400 students. Get Involved: Every dollar goes directly to Logos students. Join Logos at their annual auction on October 3 at the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark (logosschool.org, 314.997.7002). Make-a-Wish Foundation of Missouri A child’s diagnosis with a life-threatening illness places huge stress on his or her family, and MAW’s mission is to alleviate that tension by granting a child one heartfelt desire. Local Impact: Publicity of fulfilled wishes is rare, but in fact, MAW serves every medically eligible child who makes a wish. In the 115 Missouri and six Kansas counties MAW serves, 350 children each year become eligible. Get Involved: MAW’s 450 volunteers provide pure joy for kids, some by working directly with families, others by coordinating fundraisers or doing administrative tasks (mo.wish.org, 314.721.9474). Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club Its goals have evolved significantly since its founding in 1960 as a place that provides “structured recreational activities.” Now the North City club adds citizenship, productivity and moral lessons that have far-reaching impacts for the 40,000 young men and women it serves each year. Local Impact: In 2009, the Sky’s the Limit career readiness program paired its 3,250th female student with a mentor and reached the $325,000 mark in scholarships. The Maleness to Manhood weekend offers college and career fairs and life skills seminars to young men. Get Involved: The homepage has specific volunteer descriptions—administrators, coaches, tutors, group leaders and more (mathews-dickey.com, 314.382.5952). Orlando Family Foundation for Charities Sam Orlando, Sr., started this charitable arm after his family threw him a 60th birthday party in 1999. He insisted having this birthday party every year after and would charge people to attend so he could donate the money to charity. Local Impact: The Orlando Family Foundation for Charities has raised over $375,000 for organizations like Ronald McDonald House, Birth Rite and Nurses for Newborns. Get Involved: Attend the 11th annual fundraiser on January 30, 2010 at Orlando Gardens (orlandogardens.com, 314.638.6660). Ronald McDonald House Charities of Metro St. Louis An average of 39 families per night depend on Ronald McDonald House locations while their seriously ill children receive care at local hospitals. They pay only $5 per night and receive food, comfort and the support of a caring network in return. Local Impact: In addition to two houses and eight apartment units, the St. Louis House operates Family Rooms at St. John’s Mercy Medical Center, Children’s Hospital and Cardinal Glennon Medical Center. Get Involved: Last year, volunteers donated more than 20,000 hours, dinner groups served 892 meals and handymen maintained 80 sinks and 25 refrigerators. Check out “30 Ways in 30 Days” online for other ideas (rmhcstl.com, 314.773.1100). Sherwood Forest Camp The facilities are rustic—no AC for campers in Lesterville—and the outdoor components are challenging,
but kids come to this camp year after year, from first through 10th grade. The camp supports children from families living in poverty; for many of these children, the camp experience provides their only summertime enrichment and learning opportunity. Local Impact: Families pay only $50 to send a child to camp. The actual cost, $157 per day, is picked up by private individuals, foundations, corporations and the Missouri Department of Economic Development Youth Opportunities Program. Get Involved: Volunteers help out with the summer camp and Continued Contact programs. Throughout the rest of the year, the St. Louis office can use administrative help (sherwoodforestcamp.com, 314.644.3322). The Delta Gamma Center for Children With Visual Impairments The center’s core mission is teaching families how to ensure their visually impaired child reaches his or her full potential. It recently moved into a state-of-the-art facility that’s creating new opportunities for its families. Local Impact: Last year, 150 infants and toddlers and their families received education and therapy services, and 125 families with school-age children received support. In addition, the center’s volunteers screened 2,700 preschoolers and trained dozens of pediatric professionals. Get Involved: The center welcomes pro bono donations of professional services (photography, law, graphic design and public relations) as well as volunteers in administrative, landscaping or childcare capacities (dgckids.org, 314.776.1300).
Care for Our Four-Legged Friends Speak up on behalf of abused and neglected animals. Animal House Fund, Inc. After realizing there was no money to revamp its current animal shelter, Animal House Fund, a nonprofit, is working to raise $4 million in cash and in-kind contributions to build a state-of-the-art, environmentally friendly facility. Local Impact: Plans for the building and its location in Ellendale Park are in the preliminary stages. Upon completion, the facility will be turned over to the city. Get Involved: Become a volunteer dog-walker and give yourself and man’s best friend some exercise, or join the young friends group (animalhousefund. org, 314.968.5505). Animal Protective Association of Missouri The APA’s shelter and veterinary clinic helps more than 4,000 dogs and cats annually. It makes every effort to reunite lost pets with their owners, but on any given day, 100 to 150 of its animals are up for adoption. Local Impact: The APA established St. Louis’ first pet assistance program for victims of domestic violence as well as the first no-fee, petassisted activity program in the area for senior care facilities, psychiatric units, convalescent centers and children’s hospitals. Get Involved: Volunteer as an adoption counselor, animal care assistant, clerical worker or a vet tech assistant. The 19th Annual Canine Carnival October 4 is a great place to learn more (apamo.org, 314.645.4610). Coalition for Animal Rescue and Education This rescue agency, no-kill shelter and vet facility in Hillsboro accepts dogs, cats and horses (and even
alivemag.com
a cow!), with the goal of placing them in good homes. Education is vital to its mission of eliminating the cycle of pet overpopulation and neglect, so even if you adopt from another organization, it’s a valuable resource. Local Impact: Look for its C.A.R.E. Guidelines for Rescue and Rehabilitation seal of approval to ensure that other providers of companion animals adhere to its high standards. Get Involved: Because 100 percent of donations go to C.A.R.E.’s animals, volunteers provide everything from socialization and grooming of dogs and cats to baked goods for adoption open houses (caretakersnetwork.org, 636.208.6267).
the center’s ever-expanding programs. Specific indoor and outdoor opportunities are listed on the homepage (thegreencenter.org, 314.725.8314).
Volunteers at organizations like Stray Rescue (shown) protect and care for our four-legged friends.
Influence the St. Louis culture scene Art enthusiasts are agents of social change.
Companion Animal Alliance The alliance raises funds and provides grants for companion animal organizations throughout the metro area, freeing those groups up to do what they do best: care for animals. Each quarter, it contributes up to $10,000 each to a variety of worthy organizations. Local Impact: With just a year’s worth of fundraising under its belt—including a fashion show that raised $225,000—it’s poised to make a substantial contribution to animal welfare in St. Louis. Get Involved: Many hours of planning go into its three fundraising events: a Texas Hold’em poker tournament, fashion show and disco “ball” (companionanimalalliance.com, 314.616.9111).
COCA COCA is a place of perpetual motion, with dance and drama classes, an in-house theatre company, dance groups and community outreach programs like Urban Arts. The acclaimed COCA Family Theatre Series brings some of the world’s top performers to local audiences. Local Impact: Fifty thousand St. Louisans participate in COCA classes and events annually. The best and brightest young performers have gone on to prestigious post-secondary schools and national dance companies. Get Involved: COCA volunteers support the organization and have fun by serving on event committees, hosting and ushering, acting as gallery guides and through COCA’s new Junior Board (cocastl.org, 314.725.6555).
Humane Society of Missouri The Humane Society of Missouri provides a safe and caring haven to animals that have been abused, neglected or abandoned; they end the cycle of abuse and pet overpopulation through rescue and investigation efforts, spay/neuter programs and educational classes; they create lasting relationships between people and animals through adoption programs, world-class veterinary care, and pet training programs. LOCAL IMPACT: Every year more than 90,000 animals that have been abused or neglected are rescued and cared for by the Humane Society of Missouri. GET INVOLVED: Children as young as 10 can undertake a breadth of choices like becoming a foster home, shelter assistant, humane educator or pet pal (hsmo.org, 314.647.8800). Open Door Animal Sanctuary Since 1975, this no-kill shelter has been preserving the life and health of homeless cats and dogs—and ensuring that those already in homes have a high quality of life. Economic tough times have resulted in a higher-than-usual rate of returned animals this year, combined with a lower adoption rate. Open Door is responding with low-cost spaying and neutering and offers of pet food to those in need. Local Impact: Last year the shelter took in 1,063 animals and adopted out 854. It currently houses 100 dogs and 300 cats. Get Involved: Animal lovers can begin volunteering in the shelter at age 13. Adults can socialize the animals too, or they can work at biweekly adoption events or fundraisers like the flea market October 11 (odas. org, 636.671.3643). Stray Rescue of St. Louis Nearly all the pets it rescues were abused or neglected and are in need of immediate medical attention. In the decade since it was founded, Stray Rescue’s pet-centered programs have expanded to serve at-risk teens, seniors with limited income and children through educational initiatives. Local Impact: Feral dogs are one of Stray Rescue’s main priorities, and sometimes during the summer the shelter is jammed to capacity with them. A few of their stories (dogs like Apple, Powder and Marilyn Monroe) appear online. Get Involved: Walk rescued dogs, work on fundraising events or place follow-up calls about newly adopted pets. Or simply donate a bed where a rescued dog can lay its head (strayrescue.org, 314.771.6121).
58 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
Keep the Environment Beautiful Make an impact and help keep the community clean. Forest Park Forever Nearly every St. Louisan has biked through Forest Park, picnicked at the Grand Basin or gone sledding down Art Hill. Forest Park Forever keeps the 1,371-acre park strong by seeking financial stability that will enable it to ensure the park is in top form. Local Impact: The park’s restoration, using $94 million in public and private funds, is a national model; the first phase was completed in 2003, and this year a plan was put in place to maintain the park when restoration is complete. Get Involved: This spring, the park trained its first horticultural volunteers—but you don’t need a green thumb to help. Tour guides and visitor center volunteers are also needed (forestparkforever.org, 314.367.7275). Gateway Greening Gateway Greening promotes urban vitality and healthy living through community food projects and civic greening. Essentially, it requires a lot of people to get their hands dirty—and they do. The list of current and completed gardens includes 163 beautiful spaces. Local Impact: City Seeds is a collaborative job-training program for the homeless
that helps them produce and sell their own food at local markets and stores. Get Involved: The online calendar lists dates and times of gardening sessions throughout the city, or you can undertake a long-term stint on one of its ongoing projects (gatewaygreening.org, 314.588.9600). Missouri Coalition for the Environment This coalition defends the quality of air, water and open space in Missouri. Its top priorities include wetlands, nearly 90 percent of which have vanished in the state; renewable energy sources, which make up less than one percent of Missouri’s electricity suppliers; and the state’s 83 parks and historic sites. Local Impact: MCE worked hard for the Clean Energy Initiative that voters approved last November, which requires Missouri utilities to obtain 15 percent of their power from renewable sources by 2021. Get Involved: Sign up for e-alerts, then contact state and local governments about topics that impact you. MCE volunteers also do research, plan events and educate the public (moenviron.org, 314.727.0600). The Green Center Nature and art are intertwined in our culture, but sometimes we don’t even see their many connections. At the center’s 30 acres of woods, prairie and wetlands, the two are celebrated—and visitors are educated about how to maintain their own patches of nature. Local Impact: More than 200 children attend two environmentally focused summer camps, and hundreds more benefit from Scout programs and other community events. Get Involved: Volunteers manage more than half of
Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis Its striking permanent space opened in 2003, but the museum was a force in St. Louis’ art scene long before; it staged its first exhibit in 1981. Rather than housing a permanent collection, it brings three or four large exhibits each year, plus smaller, frequently rotating shows. Local Impact: The Great Rivers Biennial identifies emerging local artists, awards them $20,000 each, and promotes their work with an exhibition. Get Involved: The Contemporary encourages dynamic volunteers to create their own art while workshopping with kids, or pitch in and be a part of the events garnering the most buzz in town (contemporarystl.org, 314.535.4660). Dance St. Louis This 43-year-old organization brings a full spectrum of dance to St. Louis audiences. Coming off last year’s all-American season, it’s hosting world-renowned groups like Ballet Folklórico de México, the Moscow Festival Ballet and River North Chicago Dance Company. Local Impact: Education outreach programs include in-school residencies, master dance classes for local students, and young people’s performances at the Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center, which reach more than 1,500 students annually. Get Involved: During the upcoming Nutcracker at the Fox, volunteers pitch in as children’s escorts and Santa’s helpers, but they’re much more than elves—Dance St. Louis relies on them all year long in administration, education outreach and special events including benefit performances and three-week-long education residencies (dancestlouis.org, 314.534.5000). Missouri Botanical Garden The Garden is a beautiful place to visit, but it’s also a leading research institution. Its Tropicos plant database is the largest in the world, with nearly 3.7 million specimens on record. The Garden’s reach extends from the book Flora of Missouri to ethnobotanists in 12 countries studying exotic cultures and their use of indigenous plants. Local Impact: The Kemper Center for Home Gardening provides detailed info on planting, pests, going organic and more— available online, in the blog and podcasts, or on the phone. Get Involved: The Young Friends of the Garden promote concert series, exhibits and other special events and work to increase membership in the Garden (mobot.org, 314.577.5187). alivemag.com
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
JOIN THE MOVEMENT Bike MS: Ride for a world free of MS Young Professionals Group: Make a difference with your peers Corporate Achievers: Raise funds to help people with MS in our area Volunteer: Give your time and talents for others alivemag.com
www.gatewayMSsociety.org
59 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
Missouri History Museum St. Louis’ fascinating past comes alive here—no topic is too big (1904 World’s Fair), too small (Girl Scouts), too mundane (everyday clothing) or too intoxicating (beer) for the museum to investigate. It also hosts dozens of music shows, theater performances and expert lectures each year. Local Impact: Local, national and international historians come to the museum’s research center for unique resources documenting St. Louis, Missouri, the Louisiana Purchase Territory and the American West. Get Involved: Volunteer and give fascinating tours about St. Louis history and the museum’s special exhibits to adults and school groups. (mohistory.org, 314.746.4599). Opera Theatre of Saint Louis Opera Theatre hasn’t wavered in style since its founding in 1976. It produces well-known and unconventional operas, sung in English, by talented, established and emerging artists. A high percentage of the work it performs is new: Opera Theatre has commissioned 21 world premiere operas and has presented 22 American premieres. Local Impact: St. Louis is becoming a regional training center for the Music! Words! Opera! school program, which Opera Theatre helped pioneer. The program teaches kids in hundreds of U.S. schools that opera can be accessible and enjoyable. Get Involved: The Opera Theatre Guild assists wth projects throughout the year, and the Young Friends Steering Committee involves young adults in Opera Theatre’s outreach (experienceopera.org, 314.961.0171). Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis RAC’s grants are a lifeline for many small arts groups, but they’re just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to supporting the arts and cultural institutions. Other initiatives include an art gallery, online event calendar for more than 800 organizations, and educational program for professional artists. Local Impact: In 2008 RAC awarded nearly $1.6 million in grants to support 205 arts groups, bringing the total since 1985 to $65 million. Get Involved: The 250 volunteer Arts Commandos work on specific projects—920 to date—for nonprofit arts organizations (art-stl.com, 314.863.5811). Saint Louis Science Center The sprawling complex houses a wealth of handson learning opportunities, and it’s also a venue for educational talks (on timely topics like swine flu), special screenings at the Omnimax Theater (of shuttle launches and presidential inaugurations) and traveling exhibits like A T.rex Named Sue (here until September 7). Local Impact: Last fall, the center hosted SciFest08, modeled on an internationally famous festival in England, and its tremendous success bodes well for SciFest09, Oct. 7-11. Get Involved: Nearly every facet of the center welcomes volunteers (slsc.org, 314.289.4400). Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra For 43 weeks each year, the orchestra musicians entertain audiences brilliantly, with performances ranging from world premieres featuring well-known composers to open-air free concerts. No matter where they roam (from California to Carnegie Hall), their bread-and-butter venue is Powell Hall, where attendance and ticket revenues are up this year. Local Impact: Initiatives at the second-oldest symphony in the country include the come-as-you-are Casual Classics series and the pop culture-influenced SLSO Presents. They’ve drawn 22,000 people, of whom 30 to 50 percent are first-timers. Get Involved: Several of the volunteer association’s posts come with the perk of hearing the symphony for free (slso.org, 314.286.4182). Saint Louis Zoo Millions of visitors each year converge on the Zoo to see its 18,700 animals eat, sleep and play in
60 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
their carefully designed, stimulating environments. The WildCare Institute is a world leader in saving endangered animals and their habitats. Local Impact: Education at the Zoo starts with toddlers in the Zoomagination Station, advances with school kids’ camps and keeper-for-a-day programs, and continues with volunteer positions for teens. Get Involved: The Young Zoo Friends’ mission is raising money for the Zoo, through events like Jammin’ at the Zoo August 26 (stlzoo.org, 314.646.4771).
more than 100 of the area’s top visual, performing and literary artists in its arsenal, Springboard can present 177 unique programs, from one-time workshops to school residencies. Local Impact: As the region’s largest provider of in-school arts and cultural integration and enrichment programs, Springboard serves 75,000 students and teachers each year. Get Involved: Volunteers help out with various school-year programs, and artists who’re selected to do enrichment programs are paid a stipend (springboardstl.org, 314.289.4120).
SCOSAG The effervescent artists at Saint Louis City Open Studio and Gallery are beloved by students for their anytime, anywhere approach to art. But don’t be fooled by the casual demeanor—they’re serious about instruction for both kids and adults, and about building stronger communities by providing a safe place for children to explore art. Local Impact: The seven-year-old organization has provided thousands of hours of classes and camps. SCOSAG’s second location in The Grove originally provided tuition-free programming to kids in the at-risk neighborhood, but it now serves adults too. Get Involved: One of the region’s best-loved fundraisers is Wall Ball, a combination of live artists, top DJs and eclectic revelers (scosag.org, 314.865.0060)
The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis The Rep is three theaters in one: The Mainstage series for classic mainstream works, the Studio Theatre series for more challenging works, and the Imaginary Theatre Company for young audiences Together the three offer 12 shows a year, adding to a total of 455 productions since The Rep’s inception in 1966. Local Impact: Its reputation for highquality performances was strengthened with this year’s 10 Kevin Kline Awards, given for excellence in St. Louis theater. Get Involved: Volunteer ushers are in great demand throughout the season and The Rep Set plans special nights at the theatre for young professionals (repstl.org, 314.968.7340).
St. Louis Artists’ Guild The guild is an 800+member-strong network of professionals who rely on it as a source of education, inspiration and motivation. It hosts local and regional competitions and interacts with its peers on a national level to bring in exhibits. Local Impact: The guild provides free workshops and scholarships to children from disadvantaged neighborhoods, and it recently wrapped up the 12th annual ARTSY show, organized by a consortium of therapists who work with special needs youth. Get Involved: While office, grounds and maintenance opportunities are plentiful, volunteers may also be entrusted with the guild’s most precious commodity: receiving and installing the artworks themselves (stlouisartistsguild.org, 314.727.6266). St. Louis Jewish Book Festival The 31st annual festival opens November 1, and more than 23,000 St. Louisans will flock to interact with prominent national and local speakers during its 11-day run. Author readings are the main draw, but music, sports and entertainment personalities share the billing. Local Impact: The cultural impact of so many authors in one place can’t be understated, but the festival also raises funds for special needs scholarships at the Jewish Community Center. Get Involved: Volunteers staff the festival bookstore, serve as ushers and take an active role on the planning committee. Sponsoring or underwriting the festival is also possible (stljewishbookfestival.org, 314.442.3152). St. Louis Rhythm & Blues Preservation Society This new nonprofit has embarked on a concert venue and museum to celebrate famous local blues and R&B musicians like Chuck Berry, Ike and Tina Turner and Bennie Smith. St. Louis’ blues influence extends back to the early 1900s and continues today. Local Impact: Educational programs will instill a love for the blues in young and old listeners alike, and an archive will preserve the history and legacy in St. Louis. Get Involved: The society is currently seeking founding members. It’s also lining up event planners, office administrators and web developers in preparation for the launch of concerts at Reggie’s Backstage in September (randbpreservation.org, 314.249.8595). Springboard When Springboard to Learning and Young Audiences of St. Louis joined forces in 2006, synergy was inevitable. With dozens of teaching specialists and
Promote a Healthy Lifestyle Spread the word about the benefits of an active lifestyle. Gateway Council of Hostelling International During the 46th Moonlight Ramble, cyclists see their environment in a new light—or, rather, darkness. On August 29, more than 10,000 riders will start off after midnight, on a mission to support the 62 hostels in this country. Local Impact: While it’s working on that hostel, the council is raising funds with a variety of great bike outings, including a recreational series. Get Involved: Stay out late to support the Moonlight Ramble, as a group or individually (moonlightramble.org, 314.644.4660). Great Rivers Greenway Mile after mile, The River Ring, an ambitious project creating a 600-mile web of trails and greenways across the City of St. Louis. The district receives $10 million a year in tax revenue to support its mission. Local Impact: Last summer the innovative 1.25mile Trestle Project opened, connecting street-level Riverfront Trail with the McKinley Bridge Bikeway. The award-winning, 2,400-foot paved trail uses an abandoned elevated railroad viaduct—one of only three such projects in the world. Get Involved: In addition to constructing bike trails, the district organizes events and bike rides throughout the metro area (greatrivers.info, 314.436.7009). Lift for Life Gym and Lift for Life Academy No one at Lift for Life set out to start a school. A weightlifting gym, yes. But even that grew beyond expectations; it’s now open five nights a week, serving hundreds of children with lessons on athletics, nutrition, computers and more. Local Impact: One of the first independent charter schools in St. Louis, the Academy opened as a middle school in 2000 and has since expanded to the high school level. Get Involved: Both the school and the gym welcome volunteers who’re ready to impart positive lessons (liftforlife.org, 314.436.7103).
Ensure Human Rights for Everyone Individuals can band together to influence public policy. Diversity Awareness Partnership The tagline “Make a difference by accepting everyone else’s” perfectly sums up DAP’s mission of promoting inclusion of all races, religions, sexual orientations and disabilities. Local Impact: The Give Respect-Get Respect Youth Program brought 48 students from 24 schools together to learn about similarities and differences between their student bodies. Get Involved: Artists can donate time to the summer arts program (dapstl.org, 314.436.7628). FOCUS St. Louis FOCUS uses a three-pronged approach to improve the St. Louis region: Developing leaders, influencing policy and promoting community connections. With 750 members thinking hard about everything from sustainable infrastructure to household waste, FOCUS generates unique solutions to age-old community problems. Local Impact: What’s Right With the Region! awards go out annually to citizens, companies, nonprofits or government agencies that make strides in education, social justice, regional cooperation and other categories. Get Involved: From citizen task forces to community forums, FOCUS has a place for you to give voice to ideas (focus-stl.org, 314.622.1250). Human Rights Campaign HRC works to secure equal rights for LGBT individuals and families at the federal and state levels by lobbying elected officials, mobilizing grassroots supporters and educating fellow citizens. Local Impact: The local steering committee is one of 30 nationwide. It takes a role in statewide issues and brings national issues—like the hate-crimes bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives earlier this year—to a personal level. Get Involved: HRC welcomes help with fundraising events, lobbying, community awareness and the annual gala dinner on October 24 (stlouis.hrc.org, 800.777.4723). National Alliance on Mental Illness Mental illness affects one in five families, yet those who suffer from it and their loved ones are often met with misunderstanding in the larger community. NAMI helps ensure that they will continue to live a productive life. Local Impact: The NAMIWalk in May brought in more than $132,000, the most in the organization’s seven-year history. The money helps pay for support groups and classes. Get Involved: Volunteers may choose to share their family’s experience with others by making a long-term commitment to support groups or the phone helpline. Others serve on committees or in the office (nami.org, 314.962.4670). National Conference for Community and Justice of Metropolitan St. Louis This human relations organization empowers leaders to fight bias within their organizations—with the goal of transforming the entire community. Local Impact: This year the NCCJSTL will offer four residential institutes for school administrators, community leaders and young people who’ll use what they learn about oppression, diversity and alivemag.com
D ESI G N D O N AT ED B Y PAR AD O W SKI C R EATI VE
When you bid, everyone wins.
United Way’s online auction is about so much more than unique items and priceless experiences – it’s about making a difference. By bidding, you’ll be helping people in our region live better lives thanks to United Way’s support of nearly 200 local agencies. Check out www.GiveBidWin.com for a full list of items and to learn more. Auction runs August 10–20, 2009.
institutional change to improve their schools, organizations and lives. Get Involved: Nearly 130 specially trained volunteers, 40 percent of them teenagers, contributed to NCCJSTL’s mission in 2008 (nccjstl.org, 314.865.3042).
“Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.” — Muhammad Ali PROMO As a statewide advocacy organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender equality, PROMO uses the tools of legislative action, electoral politics, grassroots organizing and community education to foster society where all voices are heard. Local Impact: It puts its legislative know-how to work for children, too. Because nearly 50 percent of Missouri kids report bullying, name-calling and harassment to be a serious problem (well above the national average of 36 percent), PROMO supports tougher anti-bullying legislation at the state level. Get Involved: Volunteers staff booths at Pride Fests across the state and you can show support by attending its annual fundraising gala, “Urbanaire” in May (promoonline.org, 314.862.4900). Wings of Hope Wings of Hope implements poverty-reduction strategies across the globe, aiding residents of a defined region with targeted programs until they’re self-sufficient. Local Impact: Its Medical Relief and Air Transportation Program is the only 24/7 free air ambulance in the world. In its first three years, it has flown 1,500 low income patients in serious need of medical attention to the hospitals that can serve them—whether it’s from rural Missouri to St. Louis or from the inner city to specialists in another state. Get Involved: Volunteers may travel the U.S. gathering donated supplies, spend time refurbishing airplanes and other equipment, or assist with office work and event planning (wings-of-hope. org, 800.448.9487).
Prevent Violence and Help Victims of Abuse Help women and men recover and build safe relationships. Lydia’s House This organization provides safe, affordable transitional housing to women and their children in a confidential location for up to two years. After spending 30 to 90 days at an emergency shelter, women can move into Lydia’s House while they utilize medical and legal services, gain access to community resources and line up a home. Local Impact: Lydia’s House can serve 35 families at any one time in two separate facilities—and 85 percent of them leave with permanent housing and selfsustaining employment. Get Involved: Volunteers help with community meals, children’s programs and tutoring (lydiashouse.org, 314.771.4411).
62 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
Safe Connections Safe Connections serves battered women, rape victims and adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse via crisis intervention, advocacy, counseling and education. Local Impact: The Crisis Helpline answers more than 9,000 calls a year. Get Involved: New volunteers go through extensive interactive training before filling roles on the helpline, special events committees and board of directors (safeconnections.org, 314.646.7500).
innovative healthcare delivery. Get Involved: Support a fundraiser, like Erin Bode and Symmetry at Sheldon Concert Hall August 28, or donate items from the online wish list (nfnf.org, 314.544.3433).
The Women’s Safe House In 1977, this was the only domestic violence shelter in St. Louis. It provides safe shelter and support services for battered women and their children and restores their confidence until they’re empowered to stand on their own. Local Impact: In 2008, TWSH served 278 children and 155 women: 95 percent were 20-55 years of age. Get Involved: Volunteers assist TWSH with children’s programs, donation collections, facilities projects and professional services; massage, fitness, decorating, education and TWSH’s crisis hotline (twsh.org, 314.772.4535).
Ensuring that everyone has access to life’s basics: Food and shelter.
Make Parenthood an Event to Celebrate Medical and social services for mothers and infants in need. March of Dimes Missouri Chapter Each week, 11 babies die before their first birthday in Missouri. This year the March of Dimes will invest more than $4 million in Missouri and the Metro East for community services, education and research toward its goal of preventing birth defects, premature births and infant mortality. Local Impact: Since the NICU Family Support program came to St. Louis in 2007, it has responded to the emotional and informational needs of 750 families. Get Involved: Become a Biker for Babies October 11 in Maryland Heights. Other fundraising events include the March for Babies and golf tournaments (marchofdimes.com/Missouri, 314.646.8601). Mother to Mother Help is only a phone call away for the 50 to 80 percent of pregnant women and new mothers who experience some degree of postpartum and pregnancy emotional adjustment disorder. Fellow moms trained in listening skills are paired with women suffering from PPAD to help them bring harmony back into their lives. Local Impact: Mother to Mother is the only organization of its kind in the St. Louis area serving women with this all-too-common disorder. Get Involved: Book a table at the Mother of All Trivia Nights September 25. Moms who’ve experienced emotional problems during pregnancy or postpartum can be trained to provide peer support (mothertomothersupport.org, 314.644.7001). Nurses for Newborns Bringing home a new baby is particularly stressful for women facing external challenges. Nurses for Newborns cares for babies’ physical health and addresses the mothers’ situations at the same time. Local Impact: In fiscal year 2007, the Missouri program served more than 15,000 mothers, and last year the federal government recognized its Bridge to the Future program as a model of
Providing Everyday Necessities
Doorways People with HIV/AIDS who’re unable to live independently can find a home at Doorways. Its affordable, secure housing programs gradually expand as the level of need decreases. At the most critical, the Supportive Housing Facility has 36 residential care units; at the least critical, the Next Step Out-State Project provides housing development assistance and administrative support to families in 77 Missouri and 55 Illinois counties. Local Impact: Doorways’ 870 clients range in age from 2 to 72. All live in poverty; nearly one third are children. Get Involved: Volunteers are involved in many aspects of clients’ lives, from activities coordination to gardening, hair care to hosting meals in the dining room (doorwaysmo.org, 314.535.1919). Food Outreach Food Outreach feeds more than 1,500 people living with HIV/AIDS or cancer, many of whom are too weak to prepare meals or have lost their appetite due to medication. Its clients can also benefit from cooking classes, nutrition counseling and consumer education. Local Impact: In its 21-year history, Food Outreach has served some 3.2 million meals. More than 400,000 meals are rolled out annually. Get Involved: Preparing, packaging, serving and delivering the food are of paramount importance, though volunteers can opt for office support or fundraising detail as well (foodoutreach.org, 314.652.3663). Operation Food Search OFS works to end hunger and reduce waste by distributing food free of charge to community agencies. In 30 Missouri and Illinois counties, OFS distributes 1.5 million pounds of food and household essentials every month. Local Impact: Operation Back Pack, launched in 2008, sent home 3,000 food-filled backpacks with 440 low-income children at six schools, providing them with healthy nutrition over the weekend. Get Involved: Individuals and groups can donate their time, assembling food orders, loading up backpacks, planning fundraisers and serving on the young friends’ Associate Board (ofsearch.org, 314.726.5355). Our Lady’s Inn By providing pregnant women with a place to stay and the resources to learn to support themselves and their children, Our Lady’s Inn makes it possible for mothers-to-be to bear and raise their children successfully. Local Impact: Since 1982, more than 4,500 pregnant moms, plus their babies and children, have received shelter. Get Involved: Tour the facility and get a sense for how your talents could best be put to use. Other ways to participate include shopping at the Twice Blessed resale store or attending the September 16 fashion show (ourladysinn.org, 314.351.4590). St. Louis Area Foodbank As one of the bi-state region’s largest food distribution centers dedicated to feeding those in need, the Foodbank distributes 14.7 million pounds of products
annually. Its food solicitation arm coordinates donations from corporations, food drives and the USDA’s Commodity Supplemental Food Program. Local Impact: A partnership between the Foodbank and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services distributes CSFP food to 4,500 St. Louisans and is actively recruiting more agencies where food can be delivered. Get Involved: Volunteer groups are booked one to two months in advance in the repackaging center. Many organizations support the Foodbank with canned goods drives; watch for them via Facebook and Twitter (stlfoodbank.org, 314.292.6262). St. Patrick Center St. Patrick Center provides opportunities for self-sufficiency—affordable housing, sound mental health, employment and financial stability—to persons who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Local Impact: The sixth annual Sports Trivia Contest in February took in $865,000 to support the center’s programs, including new initiatives to serve veterans and small business entrepreneurs. Get Involved: Many of the volunteer opportunities that support the center’s 28 programs involve weekday hours, but there’s also event planning, mentoring and hospitality work at the new Catholic Charities Conference Center (stpatrickcenter.org, 314.802.0700).
Strive For SelfSufficiency Put people on their feet again and watch them walk forward. American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter At the international, national and local levels, this humanitarian organization helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. The step-by-step Ready Rating Program, which launched earlier this year, is serving as a national model for engaging schools, businesses and organizations in preparedness. Local Impact: In 2008, the local chapter became the first in the country to reach “High Level III Readiness.” In the event of a disaster in St. Louis, the Red Cross is prepared to immediately shelter and care for up to 600 families without assistance from the American National Red Cross. Get Involved: Serve meals, help at a blood drive or teach CPR (redcrossstl.org, 314.516.2800). Annie Malone Children & Family Service Center The center’s story begins in 1888, with the plight of neglected and orphaned African-American children, and extends into the future with plans to improve the Greater Ville neighborhood—all while continuing to make life better for children, families and the elderly. Local Impact: Annie Malone annually serves more than 1,000 children annually. Get Involved: The center’s source of funds, the May Day Celebration Weekend, involves hundreds of volunteers. The Young Professionals Group plans some of the other benefit events (anniemalone.com, 314.531.0120). The Backstoppers Inc. Police, EMT and fire professionals put their life on the line every day and are dedicated to public safety. Started in 1959, Backstoppers has provided support and financial assistance to the spouses and children of those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Local Impact: Within hours, alivemag.com
SAVE THE DATE!
HopeFest for HavenHouse February 20, 2010
HavenHouse St. Louis provides the comfort of home and a community of support for families that travel to St. Louis for medical care. To learn more about HavenHouse or HopeFest, please visit: www.havenhousestl.org or call (314) 434-5858.
the women’s safe house Providing safety, shelter, and support to women and children victims of domestic violence since 1977.
314.772.4535 www.twsh.org
Join us 9.26.09 for our golf tournament!
alivemag.com
63 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
the family receives a check for $5,000 from The BackStoppers, with assurance of further help including medical expenses, mortgage payments, educational assistance and financial counseling. Get Involved: Make a donation, become a Backstopper or attend the events like Guns ’n Hoses, the annual golf tournament or the Great Firefighters Ball (backstoppers.org, 314.692.0200).
that offer cooling centers in the summer. A new initiative called S.O.S. (Save Our Seniors) focuses on getting air conditioners and utility assistance to the elderly, very young and disabled. Get Involved: You can donate slightly used air conditioners anytime, or sign up to volunteer. (heatupstlouis.org, 314.241.7668).
According to the Corporation for National Community Service, volunteers spend about eight hours fewer a week watching TV and engage in more civic activities and stay more socially connected. BJC Healthcare BJC Healthcare is one of the country’s largest nonprofit health care organizations, with net revenue of $3.1 billion. Its facilities include Barnes-Jewish, Missouri Baptist and Children’s hospitals, as well as 10 affiliates in Missouri and Illinois. Local Impact: In 2007, it provided $149 million in charity and uncompensated care. Some of those patients are seen at the Charles F. Knight Trauma and Emergency Center, the only Level 1 trauma center in St. Louis. Get Involved: Volunteers work with the terminally ill and their families at BJC Hospice, and with the elderly at the Eunice C. Smith Home and at the Village North Retirement Community (bjc.org, 314.747.9322). Dress for Success Midwest This international nonprofit promotes the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Other nonprofits refer job-ready women to Dress For Success, where they work one-on-one with highly trained volunteers. Local Impact: Since 1998, the local affiliate has dressed more than 25,000 women. This year’s goal is 1,500. Get Involved: The volunteer orientation on September 24 will describe opportunities in computers, sorting and personal shopping. Donations of professional clothing, shoes, purses and accessories are welcome anytime (dressforsuccess. org, 314.333.4490). Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis The local Habitat affiliate built its first two homes in 1988, now hundreds are on a waiting list for the 422 homes Habitat plans to build here in the coming decade. Of the 1,800 U.S. affiliates, Habitat St. Louis is ranked in top 30 for its fiscal responsibility, organization efficiency and nonprofit management. Local Impact: This year the local affiliate plans to build 24 platinum L.E.E.D. certified, affordable homes, adding to the 258 homes already under its belt. Get Involved: Volunteers from national politicians to local craftsmen have pitched in, and you can too at the Phase III blitz, planned for mid-September (habitatstl.org, 314.371.0400). Heat Up/Cool Down St. Louis This nine-year-old initiative provides assistance year round, whenever the weather gets brutally hot or bitterly cold. One hundred percent of donations go to helping residents who need assistance. Local Impact: It provides a database of the dozens of area churches, libraries and nonprofits
64 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
Independence Center Programs at the Independence Center revolve around the Clubhouse, where the pace of the day mimics a typical workplace rhythm, preparing adults with persistent mental illness for employment. Local Impact: After the unprecedented success of its first Dancing With the St. Louis Stars event in November 2008, Independence Center scheduled another in February. Get Involved: The current Brown Bag campaign is seeking 200 new donors to contribute based on the cost of a typical lunch, $6.50. That amount can provide three Independence Center lunches—and the homepage lists how quickly its impact can multiply to fund work attire, life skills training and more (independencecenter.org, 314.533.4245). International Institute The Institute has been helping new Americans since 1919, and St. Louis continues to draw immigrants every year. Annually more than 9,000 people from 40 countries learn English, find jobs and receive counseling and family support from the agency. Local Impact: More than 500 immigrants find jobs every year based on the institute’s work with 300 employers. Get Involved: The Festival of Nations August 29-30 expects approximately 100,000 visitors. You can help make it a success by helping at setup or cleanup, volunteer registration, children’s crafts, shuttle services, the info booth and more (iistl.org,314.773.9090). Makeover for a Cause Makeover for a Cause believes boosting self-worth in the homeless, victims of domestic violence and cancer patients will make them more likely to continue medical care, substance abuse counseling and job training. Local Impact: The value of donated services averages $1,200 per client. The nonprofit is planning makeover fair where many more will receive less-extensive makeovers. Get Involved: Volunteers provide hair and nail services, coordinate referrals with other agencies and plan events—including a Celebrity Night benefit September 18 during St. Charles Fashion Week and a gala dinner the first weekend in November (mommemakeover.com, 314.456.3936). MERS/Goodwill Since MERS and Missouri Goodwill Industries merged in 2001, the combined organization has more than doubled, to 40 resale stores. Nearly 2.8 million shoppers benefit from the bargains. Local
Impact: Each year, MERS/Goodwill serves more than 10,000 people who’re disadvantaged or have disabling conditions, by offering skills training, GED courses, career counseling and youth programs. Get Involved: Bring your excess clothes, shoes, housewares, portable electronics, tools and computers to a collection site. In some areas, they’ll pick up donated cars, boats and other vehicles (mersgoodwill.org, 314.241.1133). OASIS OASIS enriches the lives of mature adults by engaging them in lifelong learning and service programs. Local Impact: Nearly 100,000 St. Louisans are registered with OASIS, and its Active Generations healthy kids program has found a foothold in local schools. Get Involved: Teach kids to read. Entertain as a storyteller. Teach computer literacy. OASIS volunteers do all this and much more (oasisnet.org, 314.539.4555). Scholarship Foundation The Foundation exists to provide college-bound students in financial need with interest-free loans. The roughly 1,600 past recipients maintain a 96 percent repayment rate. Local Impact: In 2008-09, The Foundation made loans totaling $3.25 million to nearly 600 students. In addition, approximately 40 students are awarded grants totaling about $300,000 each year. Get Involved: Help the foundation—and your wardrobe—by buying from the ScholarShop locations in Webster Groves and Clayton. Volunteer positions are also available at both stores (sfstl.org, 314.725.7990). St. Louis Learning Disabilities Association, Inc. An estimated 23,000 in St. Louis city and county have been diagnosed with a form of learning disability or attention deficit disorder. LDA helps parents identify and connect with resources to help their children learn and grow to become self-reliant adults. Local Impact: In 2008, the association worked with 19,000 children, family members and teachers. Get Involved: Openings are available in many of the LDA’s committees, which include marketing, development, trivia night, golf classic and Unlock the Magic (ldastl.org, 314.966.3088). United Way of Greater St. Louis Ours is the 18th largest United Way in the country based on population, but fifth largest in dollars raised. Children’s charities are a core constituency among agencies the United Way serves. Local Impact: The nearly 200 health and human services that receive United Way funds serve a million people in the St. Louis region each year. In 2008, more than $59 million was distributed. Get Involved: The United Way helps any agency that meets its standards recruit workers through its Volunteer Center, established in 1933 (stl. unitedway.org, 314.421.0700). Youth Lifeline America This nonprofit relies on the power of inspirational figures from the arts, sports, entertainment and business elite to shape young people’s lives. Its free football and life skills camps, for example, highlight the importance of education, nutrition, financial savvy and other skills that kids will use the rest of their lives, whether they stay in sports or not. Local Impact: Referrals come from more than 80 collaborating youth organizations, and more than 1,300 local businessmen and professional volunteers. Roughly 73 percent of camp participants go on to graduate from high school. Get Involved: Fundraisers like the Red Carpet Event and Weekend of Champions make the camps possible (youthlifeline.org, 636.536.7770).
6 ways to sample multiple nonprofits Get involved, make new contacts and find a niche.
Fuel All work and no fun makes for a dull organization, so in addition to assisting other nonprofits line up volunteers for their events, Fuel organizes a monthly social. Membership is free, but you must help out at three events per year (fuelforthecity.org).
Artlink Twenty bucks buys membership into the joint young friends organization of the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, Laumeier Sculpture Park, COCA and the Foundry Art Centre. Members can attend more events and get to know more like-minded arts lovers (artlinkstl.org).
Keystone Four nights a year, Keystone members come together to raise money for a cause. While guests dine and drink, they can learn about the charities their $30 entrance fee supports (keystoneofstlouis.org).
GenNext GenNext members learn about monthly service opportunities at United Way agencies—and then they choose which ones sound interesting. Those who’ve volunteered have priority at the monthly CEO luncheons, but anyone can attend social events (gennextstl.org).
RCP Each monthly happy hour the River City Professionals organize has a charity partner, and each is held at a trendy restaurant or bar. Its blog and homepage publicize other fundraisers too. Membership is free (rivercityprofessionals.org).
Connect With... A collaborative of young friends’ organizations, Connect With... is a clearinghouse of information on more than 40 participating organizations, and an active supporter of each one’s events. FOCUS St. Louis came up with the idea, and the many volunteers who register are making it work (connectwithstlouis.com).
alivemag.com
Second AnnuAl GreAt FireFiGhterS’ BAll FridAy SeptemBer 11, 2009
At the Four SeASonS hotel, St. louiS, miSSouri
• A BlAck tie event •
cocktAilS—open BAr—5:00 pm to midniGht horS d'oeurveS Silent Auction SeAted dinner muSic entertAinment—GAlAXy red
ticketS $60.00 eAch, AvAilABle July 1St purchASe ticketS At: St. louiS Fire depArtment heAdQuArterS, AFFton Fire diSt heAdQuArterS & creve coeur Fire diSt. heAdQuArterS
• All proceedS BeneFit BAckStopperS •
The Lifesaving Foundation introduced the latest method of providing emergency medical services to the citizens, and visitors of the City of St. Louis by a gift-in-kind of equipment for an “EMS Bike Team”. The EMS Bike Team allows the St. Louis Fire Department to reduce the elapsed time between a 911 call and the provision of lifesaving help to the patient in large crowded venues, such as parades, races, and other special events throughout the city. We are saving more lives by shaving precious seconds off of response time. The Lifesaving Foundation is a way individuals and corporations can help first responders help you
Become a LIFESAVER and donate at www.lifesavingfoundation.org or call Rebecca Davis, Executive Director (314) 535-LIFE
A CHILD’S DREAM: THE ADVENTURES OF CLARA AND THE HARD NUT Come experienCe This new DanCe musiCal
E. Desmond Lee Auditorium at the Missouri History Museum (Lindell & Baliviere in Forest Park, St. Louis) Thursday, august 6, 7:30pm (special showing) Friday, august 7, 7:30pm saturday-sunday, august 8-9, 2:30pm Featuring present & former company members of The Philadelphia Dance Co., Alvin Ailey II, and Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago.
Giving Back: St. Louis charity
spotlights FOW_Logo_01.pdf
4/22/05
11:01:39 PM
St. Louis is one of the most philanthropic cities in the nation. With hundreds of ways to contribute to nonprofit organizations in the city, St. Louisans don’t have to look very hard to discover how they can give back to the community. Here, we spotlight six shining nonprofit organizations that are making a difference and how you can roll up your sleeves and get involved.
St. Louis Children’s Hospital NOTEWORTHY NONPROFIT:
Mission Statement:
“St. Louis Children’s Hospital will do what’s right for children.” Where there is a will, there is a way at St. Louis Children’s Hospital; get involved by donating money, hosting a fundraiser, volunteering at the hospital or at their events, provide gifts from a child’s wish list or even make a memorial donation in honor of a child.
How to Lend a Hand:
Expect to find fundraising events scattered throughout the year, such as Kickball for a Cause, Children’s Hospital’s Carousel Gala and a Children’s Holiday Festival. Also, check out on-going fundraisers and promotions in conjunction with Kohl’s and Schnucks. Kohl’s offers four Dr. Seuss children’s books as well as four plush characters from the books for $5. The proceeds benefit health and educational opportunities for children, including services at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Stop by your local Schnucks to pick up the Schnucks Community Card. It’s free, and if you swipe it before your Schnucks purchases, three percent of the sale benefits the hospital.
Upcoming Events:
Why Your Help is Vital: “Generous donors allow us to continue our tradition of providing compassionate care, leading-edge treatment and healing to children inside the hospital and outside through a variety of community outreach programs. Together we can continue to give kids and their families the priceless gift of healthier futures.”–Abby Edwards, Development Officer.
One Children’s Place • Central West End 314.454.6000 • stlouischildrens.org
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
Friends of Wings is a support organization that helps progress the mission of BJC Hospice’s Wings program. Wings provides the important home care for newborns and individuals up to 21 years of age who are fighting terminal illness, regardless of their ability to pay. BJC Hospice is the region’s only pediatric hospice, and has served over 225 children since its inception in 1997. Give Back & Get Involved Friends of Wings wouldn’t be able to provide the vital support to the Wings program without the generous donations and volunteer efforts of the St. Louis community. BJC’s Wings program benefits greatly from the support of volunteers, and simple tasks such as providing an attentive ear to a grieving mother, or helping a family with their daily errands have a monumental impact on the children and families in need. Call Friends today to learn about the current volunteer opportunities. Making a monetary donation to Friends of Wings is easy; simply visit the Friends of Wings website and make a donation with the click of a mouse. Or support the nonprofit by shopping the Friends of Wings Boutique for adorable butterfly-bedecked hats, headbands and jewelry. friendsofwings.com 314.953.1895
Jecca loves and supports FlawDogs!
Specializing in Puppy Mill “leftovers” Rescue · Rehab · aDoptions 636.274.2511• gnsives@aol.com
Fl awdogs adoption
Giving Back: st. louis charity spotlights
Friends of Kids with Cancer Mission Statement:
“Friends of Kids with Cancer is devoted to enriching the daily lives of children undergoing treatment for cancer and blood related diseases. Our Mission is to be an advocate for these special kids and provide them and their families with the recreational, educational, and emotional support needed throughout the long hours of chemotherapy, illness and isolation.” Founded by parents of children in treatment and medical professionals, Friends of Kids with Cancer focuses on the importance of the children and their families getting through each day. Whether you prefer to donate money, gifts or your time, Friends of Kids with Cancer appreciates it all. Friends of Kids with Cancer looks for volunteers to go shopping for kids in treatment on behalf of Friends, plan fundraisers, do important clerical work, provide food to families and get involved in any way they can.
How to Lend a Hand:
Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center
Mission Statement:
Give back by attending one of Friends’ big four yearly fundraising events: Trivia Night, “Walk with a Friend,” The Friends of Kids with Cancer Golf Tournament and their signature event, the Friends of Kids with Cancer’s Fashion Show and Boutique, coming up on November 5 at The Ritz-Carlton St. Louis. Also, don’t miss a fundraising tribute concert to Steely Dan and Earth, Wind & Fire at the Sheldon on October 16, performed by local band Groovethang.
Upcoming Events:
Why Your Help is Vital: “We have been creating smiles in St. Louis for 17 years, and all donations will stay right here in our community. Whether it’s raising money, donating tickets or shopping for toys, the feeling you get from directly impacting the lives of kids with cancer is only surpassed by the pure joy of the child who receives that gift. And being a small, local organization, we can only go as far as our volunteers will take us.” –Judy Ciapciak, Executive Director
530 Maryville Centre Dr., LL5 • Town & Country • 314.275.7440 friendsofkids.com
“The Siteman Cancer Center’s mission is to reduce the impact of cancer today and eliminate the threat of cancer tomorrow.” The Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center uses fundraising opportunities to help make it the premier cancer center in the Midwest. You can help out by donating, volunteering, or participating in community events. Donations to their Annual Fund are especially crucial to continuing and improving their research and patient care. The center relies on their volunteers so whether you are looking to have direct patient contact or prefer assisting the administrative area, your help is always welcome.
How to Lend a Hand:
Grab a racket and play in the center’s Rally for Cancer Research Tennis Tournament in August, or sign up for the Charles Matthew Espiritu Golf Outing in September. If sports aren’t your thing, you can participate in the featured Celebrate Spot—a walk for dogs and their people to benefit breast cancer research and treatment—in October, or get dressed up and party all night at CUREiosity, a swanky gala in November.
Upcoming Events:
Why Your Help is Vital: “When someone you love is facing a serious disease like cancer, you are compelled to do something to help. Partnering with Siteman Cancer Center by making a gift in honor of your loved one’s courage is sure to lift spirits while advancing care. Your gift ensures that Siteman researchers will have what they need to continue working around-the-clock to unlock the mysteries that will lead to a cure.”–Jana Sharpley, Executive Director of Development
660 S. Euclid Ave., Box 8100 • Central West End • 314.935.4725 siteman.wustl.edu
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
Join us for the 2nd Annual
October 26, 2009 Kemp Auto Museum 16955 Chesterfield Airport Rd. 6:30pm – VIP Reception 7:30pm – General Admission
Celebrity
For more information call (314) 616-9111
Honorary HostSt. Louis Rams’
Will Witherspoon WWW.COMPANIONANIMALALLIANCE.COM
prouD supporter of Companion animal allianCe
Join us for the
Dogs & DuDs
Celebrity Fashion Show
oCtober 26, 2009
288 lamp & lantern village town & Country, mo 63017 636-256-7201
Giving Back: st. louis charity spotlights
The Women’s Safe House Mission Statement:
“The mission of The Women’s Safe House is to provide safe shelter and support services to battered women and their dependent children and to empower women to make informed choices about their futures. All services are free and confidential.”
Since 1977, The Women’s Safe House has helped women and children escape domestic violence by providing safe emergency shelter and empowering programs. The Women’s Safe House also offers a 24-hour crisis hotline, safety planning, case management services, connections to community resources, an on-site nurse and therapist, living skills classes and an aftercare program. Support families in need by becoming a volunteer in the children’s program, sort clothing donations, staff the crisis hotline, help beautify our grounds or share your culinary skills and prepare a meal to serve to our residents.
How to Lend a Hand:
Companion Animal Alliance Mission Statement:
“The Companion Animal Alliance was formed for the sole purpose of raising funds and awarding grants to companion animal organizations in the greater St. Louis area. By working with different animal organizations, we hope to bring the animal community together to work as a cohesive unit, all striving to do the best for the animals in need.”
The generosity of individual, group and corporate donors is essential for the House’s continued success. Over 82 cents of every dollar donated directly funds the programs and services that assist women and children in building violence-free lives. You can provide one night of safety to a woman seeking refuge for $75.
How to Lend a Hand: Born out of President Tracey Cain’s love for animals, Companion Animal Alliance supports other animal welfare groups that cannot always support themselves. Organizations all over the St. Louis area can apply for grants given by the alliance to benefit their cause. Money raised at Companion Animal Alliance’s many fundraisers constitute these grants; you can help this charitable organization by attending fundraisers, which take place three times a year.
Don’t miss Companion Animal Alliance’s annual Dogs & Duds Celebrity Fashion Show in October at the Kemp Auto Museum where you’ll see local celebrities strut on the catwalk with their own dog or a lovable pooch that is available for adoption.
Upcoming Events:
Why Your Help is Vital: “The Companion Animal Alliance raises money to support not just one particular shelter or rescue, we try to help all St. Louis area rescues and shelters that ask for it. When you support the Companion Animal Alliance, by attending one of our fabulous events, you in turn are helping support all local animal welfare organizations. You can be confident that your money will be well spent.” –Tracey Cain, President and Founder
8816 Manchester Rd. # 163 • Brentwood • 314.616.9111 companionanimalalliance.com
Tee off with The Women’s Safe House for The 17th Annual Building a Better Future for Women and Children Golf Tournament sponsored by U.S. Cellular on September 26, 2009 at Normandie Golf Club.
Upcoming Events:
Why Your Help is Vital: “We rely heavily on the kindness of our community for volunteers and donations so that The Women’s Safe House is able to provide shelter and hope. Volunteers are an integral part of what we do and we are grateful to each of our supporters and friends. We will be here until the violence stops, so please join us in this effort.” -Sylvia J. Jackson, Executive Director.
314.772.4535 • twsh.org
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
Taking Steps Toward Cures “We all know someone with cancer. It’s time to walk the talk. Please join us and raise funds for lifesaving cancer research.”
-Tina Fey Light The Night Walk National Spokesperson
Local Presenting Sponsors:
The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Gateway Chapter September 11, 2009
Registration Begins: 5:30p.m. - Walk Begins: 7:30p.m. Two Locations: Forest Park & St. Peters City Centre Park 314-878-0780 - lightthenight.org/gat
Congratulations to the leukemia & lymphoma soCiety’s (lls)
2009 man & Woman of the year, Debbie etter and mike pettit!
together with three other candidates, they raised over $32,000 for blood cancer research and patient aid programs. man & Woman of the year is a 10-week campaign where local men and women in the business community raise funds for lls in honor of our local Boy and girls of the year: isaac, katie, and taylor. each dollar counts as one vote; the man and woman with the most money raised at the end of the 10-weeks are crowned man & Woman of the year at the grand finale celebration. this is a purely philanthropic campaign that not only helps spread blood cancer awareness, but also gives candidates numerous networking opportunities. kick-off starts april 2010. if you or someone you know may be interested in running, please call Jennifer at: (314) 878-0780.
All 2009 CAndidAtes: debbie etter administrative assistant of nottelmann music Company Mike Pettit Director of retail services for the sansone group Matt Hall principal of hill investment group Jules Karagiannis owner of the tenderloin room Renee strutman Volunteer for the leukemia & lymphoma society
Survivors The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society – helping patients with blood cancers live better, longer lives. If you or a loved one needs help or you want to help save lives, contact us today at: 800.264.CURE or visit www.lls.org. Local Contact Information: 314.878.0780 and www.lls.org/gat
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team In Training is the largest endurance sports training program in the world. As part of the Team In Training program, you will experience an amazing journey of fitness training, making new friends, becoming a hero for blood cancer patients, and achieving the ultimate endurance accomplishment!
KicK off for winter season events August 15, 10:00 AM, Spazio at Comfort Inn, Maryland Heights (Information meeting 9:00 AM)
waLt DisneY worLD® Marathon weeKenD January 9 & 10, 2010 Orlando, FL This family-friendly marathon features a flat, fast course that winds through Epcot Center, the Magic Kingdom and Disney MGM Studios. Both the Half and Full marathons sell out every year.
P.f. chang’s rocK ‘n’ roLL arizona® Marathon & haLf Marathon January 17, 2010 Phoenix, AZ The marathon and half marathon courses are as flat and festive as they come - perfect for runners and walkers of all ability levels. The beautiful desert scenery, local highlights and live music will keep you inspired all the way to the finish line!
race to cure LYMPhoMa 5K & 10K tnt teaM chaLLenge October 17, 2009 St. Charles, MO Competitive or recreational, teams of 3 or more can join the fun of TNT’s first Team Challenge! Great opportunity for corporate team builder / wellness program or fun with family and friends.
for more information call 314.878.0780 or visit www.teamintraining.org/gat
HIGHEREDUCATION An Investment That Makes Cents When you examine the benefits, higher education proves to be a worthwhile investment, even in these difficult economic times. Studies consistently show that those who invest in higher education experience improved quality of life in the form of more job opportunities, higher salaries and lifelong networking opportunities; benefits that’ll linger long after the sour economy starts to sweeten back up.
with leaders in the fields who give presentations to classes, Le Van says. Their strong advisory board prepares students for their first positions after graduation. …Earn Your Tuition Back…and Then Some Tuition can be expensive, and it can be hard to justify when money is tight, but consider this: Over a lifetime, those with a bachelor’s degree will earn $1 million more than those with a high school diploma according to a study that examined the 2007 U.S. Census. Additionally, those with higher education levels are more likely to receive pension benefits and employer-provided health insurance. And with the availability of scholarships and financial aid packages with flexible repayment plans, tuition costs can be whittled down to a more manageable size.
When you invest in higher education, you’ll… …Set Yourself Apart in the Job Marketplace Those with higher levels of education are qualified for more job positions. In turn, they receive better job offers. Robin Le Van, Corporate Director of Marketing and Business Development at Vatterott College, said the skills students receive at Vatterott can be directly applied to high-demand careers, which is especially important with the economy’s current state. Le Van says some of these high-demand careers include medical assistants, computer and information services, plumbing, electricians and cosmetology. To make the education process more flexible for students, Vatterott also offers online classes, Le Van adds. Additionally, learning a specialized skill or trade provides students with the opportunity to work for themselves, said Ryan Risley, Marketing Coordinator at Vatterott College. And if you’re not your own boss, retaining a specialized skill set or having a more advanced level of education is an asset to your boss, Risley says. Having skills your co-workers do not may help you avoid the unemployment line. …Be Able to Tap an Invaluable Network The networking opportunities available when you become a student or alum will help fortify your economic fallout shelter and come out unscathed. Many St. Louis educational institutions offer social and professional events that introduce students to professionals in their field who can offer advice, moral support and even recommend or hire them for positions. In a tough job market, having an “in” can be invaluable. Vatterott College, for example, has strong relationships
…Be in Good Company Trends show that adult learners tend to pursue higher education when there’s a major change in their lives or when there is a sense of urgency, said Steve Ehrlich, Associate Dean for Academics at University College, the adult evening division of Washington University. The gloomy state of the economy and the uncertainty it brings has created an intense sense of urgency with people, and they are exploring educational options in record numbers. There is no better time, Ehrlich says, to invest in education and learn the skills to be better prepared to weather the economic storm than right now.
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
HIGHER EDUCATION LOWER TUITION
WHY GO ANYWHERE ELSE? University College, the adult evening division of Washington University, has one of the lowest tuition rates of evening programs in the St. Louis area. And Washington University is ranked among the top universities in the nation! We offer associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in a variety of disciplines. You can take a few courses or earn your degree from Washington University.
PREVIEW NIGHT THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2009
Holmes Lounge • Doors open at 6pm Event Starts at 7pm • Light refreshments will be served Please e.mail or call krtruman@wustl.edu or 314-935-6777 or go to http://ucollege.wustl.edu to RSVP. alivemag.com
CLASSES BEGIN AUGUST 26
75 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
76 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
alivemag.com
ON SALE NOW!
Disney and CAMERON MACKINTOSH present
WITH ORIGINAL BROADWAY STARS
ST. LOUIS PREMIERE! AUGUST 13–30,2009 FABULOUS FOX THEATRE CALL: (314) 534-1111 ONLINE: metrotix.com VISIT: Fox Box Office 527 North Grand Blvd. ©Disney/CML
and all MetroTix locations
GROUPS (20+): (314) 535-2900
City Living Guide From architecturally unique lofts to stunningly spacious condos and apartments, we present ALIVE’s definitive resource to fabulous St. Louis living.
key
Penthouse
P
Fireplace
Concierge
Parking
Dog Park
Sun Deck
Pool
Gym
THE GEORGIAN 1515 Lafayette Ave. Units: 104 (6931,620 sq. ft.). Price: $189,000-$276,000. Contact: Gilded Age, 314.771.7171, gilded-age.com. Gw Lofts 2615 Washington Ave. Units: 68 (800-1,500 sq. ft.). Rent: $600-$2,000/mo. Contact: Blue Urban, Inc., 314.436.2200, gewlofts.com. GRACE LOFTS 1324 Washington Ave. Units: 24 (900-1,400 sq. ft.). Rent: $1,080-$1,950/mo. Contact: McGowan Brothers Development, 314.588.1170, gracelofts.com. King Bee Lofts 1709 Washington Ave. Units: 40 (2,000- 3,000 sq. ft.). Price: starting $225,000. Contact: Edward L. Bakewell, 314.721.5555
The Chase Park Plaza
Midtown/Downtown ALEXANDER LOFTS 1121 Locust St. Units: 8 (2,200-2,400 sq. ft.). Price: $420,000-$460,000. Contact: New City Neighborhood Redevelopment, 314.283.0572, alexanderlofts.com. ARTLOFT 1531 Washington Ave. Units: 63 (1,200-2,100 sq. ft.). Rent: $513-$642/ mo. Contact: Cohen-Esrey Real Estate Services, 314.436.6545, cohenesrey.com.
Annex Lofts 1511 Locust St. Units: 77 (1,030-2,178 sq. ft.). Price: sold out, resale only. Contact: Orchard Development Group, 314.436.7400, theannex-lofts.com.
BALLPARK LOFTS II AT CUPPLES STATION 1004 Spruce St. Units: 68 (800-1,600 sq. ft.). Price: $149,000-$422,928. Contact: Blue Urban, Move Direct number is 314.517.5050 for Lisa or 314.518.9003 for Chris, blueurban.com. BEE HAT APARTMENTS 1021 Washington Ave. Units: 36 78 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
(915-1,400 sq. ft.). Rent: $925-$1,400/ mo. Contact: Rodemyer Christel, Inc., 314.454.0800 or Bee Hat Leasing Office, 314.436.4214, rcirealty.com. Bell Lofts 920 Olive St. Units: 24 (742-1,265 sq. ft.). Rent: $785-$1,320/mo. Contact: Loftworks, LLC, 314.575.9978, loftworks-stl.com. BLU CITYSPACES 210 N. 17th St. Units: 144 (427-814 sq. ft.). Price: $61,900-$200,000. Contact: Blu CitySpaces Sales Office, 314.241.3111, blucityspaces.com. THE BOGEN LOFTS 1209 Washington Ave. Units: 125 (1,100-1,900 sq. ft.). Rent: $350-$1,900/ mo. Contact: Jacob Development Group, 314.621.2226, thebogen.com.
CUPPLES STATION LOFT APARTMENTS 1023 Spruce St. Units: 131 (615-1, 400 sq. ft.). Rent: 1 Bedroom: $686/mo., 2 Bedroom: $824/mo., Contact: HRI Properties, 314.241.1225, cupplesapartments.com.
DENIM LOFTS 1308 Washington Ave. Units: 24 (1,500-2,000 sq. ft.). Price: $250,000$500,000. Contact: John Carroll, 314.504.0050. P EDEN LOFTS 1720 Chouteau Ave. Units: 40 (873-1,507 sq. ft.). Price: $133,000-$239,000. Contact: Gilded Age, 314.621.5777, gilded-age.com. ELY WALKER LOFTS 1520 Washington Ave. Units: 174 (1,000-1,600 sq. ft.). Rent: $995-$1,495 Contact: Orchard Development Group, 314.436.7451, elywalkerlofts.com.
FASHION SQUARE LOFTS 1307 Washington Ave. Units: 89 (1,037-1,418 sq. ft.). Rent: $875-$1,850/ mo. Contact: McGowan Brothers Development, 314.621.9292, fashionsquarelofts.com. GARMENT ROW LOFTS 1312 Washington Ave. Units: 12 (1,450-2,450 sq. ft.). Price: $200,000$350,000. Contact: 1312 Development Group/John Carroll, 314.504.0050.
KNICKERBOCKER LOFTS 1300 Washington Ave. Units: 53 (500- 3,000 sq. ft.). Price: Sold out, resale only. Contact: Carhill Enterprises, 314.517.5050. LOCUST STREET LOFT APARTMENTS 416 N. 23rd St. Units: 132 (627-933 sq. ft.). Rent: $677-$1,165/mo. Contact: Bruce Development Company, 314.880.0900, brucedevelopment.com.
LOFTS@315 315 N. 10th St. Units: 20 (1,0671361 sq. ft.). Rent: $915-$1,545/mo. Contact: Loftworks, 314.575.9978, loftworks-stl.com. LOFTS AT CITY MUSEUM 701 N. 15th St., 5th Floor. Units: 27 (1,600-2,700 sq. ft.). Price: $299,000$550,000. Contact: 314.608.6960, citymuseum.org. LUCAS LOFTS 1123 Washington Ave. Units: 102 (691-2,700 sq. ft.). Price: $114,900$492,100. Contact: Chastan Properties, 314.647.0001, chastanpropertiesllc.com.
LUDWIG LOFTS 1006 Olive St. Units: 17 (661-1,250 sq. ft.). Rent: $815-$1,295/mo. Contact: alivemag.com
Loftworks, 314.575.9978, loftworks-stl.com. Merchandise Mart 1000 Washington Ave. Units: 213 (510-2,100 sq. ft.). Rent: $630-$2,300/ mo. Contact: 314.436.6800, themerchandisemart.com. MLOFTS 1107 Mississippi Ave. Units: 36 (743-1,275 sq. ft.). Rent: $730-$1,380/ mo. Contact: Loftworks, 314.241.6700, loftworks-stl.com. MAJESTIC STOVE LOFTS 2020 Delmar Blvd. Units: 120 (861-1,684 sq. ft.). Rent: $538-$1,320/mo. Contact: Robert Wood Realty, 314.621.4050, majesticstovelofts.com. MARQUETTE APARTMENTS 314 N. Broadway Units: 115 (527-1,373 sq. ft.). Price: $169,900-$689,000. Rent: $700-$1,200/mo. Contact: The Lawrence Group, 314.783.7917, marquettedetails.com. P
MOTOR LOFTS 2206 Lucas Ave. Units: 75 (665-1,550 sq. ft.). Price: $950-$1,700/mo. Contact: Blue Urban, 314.436.2200, blueurban.com. PACKARD LOFTS 2201 Locust St. Units: 33 (765-1,400 sq. ft.). Price: $140,000-$297,000. Contact: Blue Urban, 314.436.2200, blueurban.com.
THE PAUL BROWN LOFT APARTMENTS 208 N. 9th St. Units: 222. Rent: 1 Bedroom (588-1108 sq. ft.) from $615/ mo., 2 Bedroom (873- 1400 sq. ft.) from $1,000/mo., 2- Story Loft (877-1,741 sq. ft.) from $1,200/mo. Contact: 314.621.1100, paulbrownlofts.com.
POINTE 400 400 S. 4th St. Units: 118 (667-1,634 sq. ft.). Rent: $1,000-$3,500/mo. Contact: Balke Brown Associates, 314.241.4005, pointe400.com. P ROBERTS LOFTS ON THE PLAZA 911 Locust St. Units: 47 (754-3,000 sq. ft.). Rent: $950-$3,000/mo. Contact: Roberts Brothers Properties, 314.621.5443, therobertslofts.com. ROBERTS TOWER AT MAYFAIR PLAZA (coming in 2010) 411 N. 9th St. Units: 53 (880-5,000 sq. ft.). Price: Available on request. Contact: Roberts Brothers Properties, 314.367.2768, robertstower.com. P
RUDMAN ON THE PARK 500 N. 13th St. Units: 48 (914-1,494 sq. 80 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
ft.). Rent: $900-$1,500/mo. Contact: McGowan Brothers Development, 314.231.2005, rudmanonthepark.com.
SYNDICATE 917 Olive St. Units: 172 (994-3,200 sq. ft.). Price: $249,000-$767,000. Rent: $650-$1,750/mo. Contact: Rodemyer Christel, 314.575.0511, syndicateliving.com. TERRACE LOFTS 1300 Convention Plaza. Units: 48 (479-1,157 sq. ft.). Rent: $480-$1, 160/mo. Contact: McGowan Brothers Development, 314.621.7800, terracelofts.com. TUDOR LOFTS 1901-1937 Washington Ave. Units: 64 (800-1,500 sq. ft.) Rent: $522-$781/mo. Contact: Robert Wood Realty, 314.621.4050, thetudorbuilding.com. University Heights 3720 Laclede Ave., Midtown. Units: 264 (420-1,100 sq. ft.). Rent: $700-$1650/mo. Contact: Bruce Development Co., 886.550.9599, brucedevelopment.com.
VANGARD LOFTS 1110 Washington Ave. Units: 86 (650-1,200 sq. ft.). Rent: $725-$1,300/ mo. Contact: Bruce Development Co., 314.880.0900, brucedevelopment.com.
The Ventana 1635 Washington Ave. Units: 91 (1,013-1,287 sq. ft.). Price: $177,275$268,400. Contact: Jacob Development Group, 314.621.2226, theventana.com
WASHINGTON AVENUE APARTMENTS 1133 Washington Ave. Units: 95 (360-1,100 sq. ft.). Rent: starting $525/ mo. Contact: Bruce Development Co., 314.241.6999, brucedevelopment.com. WESTGATE LOFTS 2323 Locust St. Units: 49 (914-2,138 sq. ft.). Price: $152,625-$346,500. Contact: McGowan Brothers Development, 314.588.1170, westgatelofts.com.
Central West End 4545 LINDELL 4545 Lindell Blvd. Units: 33 (1,525-3,116 sq. ft.). Price: $523,000-$1.8 million. Contact: Andrea Lenzen, 314.898.7272, 4545living.com. P THE CHASE PARK PLAZA 232 N. Kingshighway. Units: 86 (1,018-6,600 sq. ft.). Price: $500,000-
$5 million. Contact: IFC, Inc., 314.633.1100, chaseresidences.com.
Roberts Brothers, LLC, 314.621.5443, robertsplacelofts.com. P
P
FIELD SCHOOL LOFTS 4466 Olive St. Units: 33 (710-1,740 sq. ft.). Rent: $825-$1,400/mo., Contact: Central West End Management, 314.454.9799, cwemgmt.com.
TAYLOR-OLIVE BUILDING 501-523 N. Taylor Ave./4505-4509 Olive St. Units: 8 (1,350-2,225 sq. ft.). Rent: $1,300-$2,200/mo. Contact: Central West End Management, 314.454.9799, cwemgmt.com.
FOREST PARK CONDOMINIUMS 6102 Washington Blvd. Units: 59 (778-1,556 sq. ft.). Price: $159,900$254,900. Contact: Saaman Development/ Rothschild Development, 314.704.5473, forestparkcondominiums.com.
WEST END LOFTS 4100 Forest Park Ave. Units: 120 (763-1,655 sq. ft.). Price: $168,000$420,000. Contact: Bruce Development Co., 314.531.4441, westendlofts.com.
GASLIGHT SQUARE 454 Boyle Ave. Units: 13 (1,335-2,189 sq. ft.). Price: $255,000-$359,000. Contact: Keith Manzer314.609.3155, gaslightcondos.com.
Clayton/ Richmond Heights
Lister Building 4500 Olive St. Units: 9 (1,150-1,350 sq. ft.). Rent: $1,200-$1,500/mo., penthouse: $5,000/mo. Contact: Central West End Management, 314.454.0032, cwemgmt.com. P LOFTS AT THE HIGHLANDS 1031 Highlands Plaza Dr. West & 1030 Highlands Plaza Dr. East. Units: 200 (863-1,695 sq. ft.). Rent: $1,050-1,695/ mo. Contact: Balke Brown Associates, 314.647.7100, highlandslofts.com.
The Malvern at Metropolis DeBaliviere Place 5621 Pershing Ave. Units: 9 (670-813 sq. ft.). Price: $132,900-$199,900. 5631 Pershing Ave. Units: 6 (1,157 sq. ft) Price: $192,900-$199,900. Contact: Metro360 Realty, llc, 314.367.7755, metropolisdp.com.
31 BRIGHTON WAY CONDOMINIUMS 31 Brighton Way, Clayton. Units: 6 (1,958-3,619 sq. ft.), 3 lofts. Price: $799,000-$1,250,000. Contact: Douglas Properties, 314.725.9911, douglasproperties.com. ALLEGRO LUXURY APARTMENTS 24 The Boulevard, Richmond Heights. Units: 74 (525-1,428 sq. ft.). Rent: $950-$2,295/mo. Contact: Nicole Tellman, 314.721.8300, theboulevard.com.
CLAYTON PARK PLACE 8251-8253 Parkside Dr., Clayton. Units: 14 (1,900-4,500 sq. ft.). Price: $900,000$3 million. Contact: R J York Development, 314.862.2999, rjyork.com. P THE CRESCENT 155 Carondelet Plaza, Clayton. Units: 70 (2,200-5,000 sq. ft.). Price: $900,000-$2.4 million. Contact: Mark S. Melhman Realty, 314.862.4448, thecrescentinclayton.com. P
The Marlborough at Metropolis DeBaliviere Place 5696 Kingsbury Ave. Units: 45 (565 sq. ft.). Price: $99,000-$126,900. Contact: Metro360 Realty, llc, 314.367.7755, metropolisdp.com. The MELROSE APARTMENTS 4065 West Pine Blvd./ 210-18 S. Sarah,. Units: 30 (735-1,400 sq. ft.). Rent: 1 bedroom $795/mo., 2 Bedroom: $1,275/ mo., 3 Bedroom: $1,800/mo., Contact: Red Brick Management, 314.220.3635, melrose-stl.com.
DEMUN POINTE 6451 Clayton Rd., Clayton. Units: 27 (1,100-2,900 sq. ft.). Price: $349,000$999,000. Contact: JoAnn Tucker, 314.256.1110, demunpointe.com. The Melrose Apartments
NINE NORTH EUCLID 9 N. Euclid Ave. Units: 52 (850-1,600 sq. ft.). Price: $298,000-$600,000 Contact: The Opus Group, 314.367.6500, parkeastlofts.com. Roberts Place Lofts 800 Arlington Ave. Units: 72 (501-1800 sq. ft.). Rent: $680-$1,800/mo. Contact: alivemag.com
MARYLAND WALK 8025 Maryland Ave., Clayton. Units: 101 (952-4,419 sq. ft.). Price: $529,000$1,000,000. Contact: Christine Cool, 314.863.1900, marylandwalk.com. P
superior visibility on washington ave. • ample parking creative retail and residential spaces • beautiful architecture 1818 Washington Ave. • Downtown West retail inquiries: Sarah Henz 314.401.9136 residential inquiries: Scott Sturdevant 314-518-1735
www.1818stl.com
THE PLAZA IN CLAYTON 150 Carondolet Plaza, Clayton. Units: 82 (2,647-5,638 sq. ft.). Price: $1,750,000 and up. Contact: Caryl Sunshine, 314.983.2187, theplazainclayton.com.
TRIANON (coming in 2009) 7515 Forsyth Blvd. Units: 300 (650-2,000+ sq. ft.). Price: $400,000s-$1 million+. Contact: Orchard Development Group, 314.863.7515, trianoncondos.com. P
South City/The Hill/ Tower Grove 1520 S. GRAND 1520 S. Grand Blvd., South City. Units: 5 (750-850 sq. ft.). Rent: $800$985/mo. Contact: 314.220.3635, redbrickmanagement.com.
R
O
T
H
R
S
C
H
I
L
D
LINDENWOOD HOMES 7018 Mardel, South City. Units: 16 (950-1,900 sq. ft.). Price: $200,000$300,000. Contact: Ted Gottlieb, 314.956.9477, lindentreelane.net. LINDENWOOD LOFTS 3815 McCausland Ave., South City. Units: 20 (861-1,502 sq. ft.). Price: $157,000$229,000. Contact: Ted Gottlieb, 314.956.9477, lindenwoodlofts.com.
Lafayette Square/ Benton Park/Soulard ABBEY ON THE PARK 1505 Missouri Ave., Lafayette Square. Units: 9 (1,343-2,644 sq. ft.). Price: Sold out, $285,000-$415,000. Contact: Gilded Age, 314.771.7171, gilded-age.com. THE BARTON STREET LOFTS 2401 S. 12th St., Soulard. Units: 14 (1,000-2,000 sq. ft.). Price: Starting $150,000s. Contact: Zack Riley, 314.276.9809, thebartonstreetlofts.com.
FIREHOUSE LOFTS 912 Allen Ave., Soulard. Units: 5 (685-1,400 sq. ft.). Rent: $850$1,400/mo. Contact: Red Brick Management, 314.361.7067, ext.131, redbrickmanagement.com.
MISSISSIPPI PLACE 1618 Lafayette Ave., Lafayette Square. Units: 16 (1,327-2,953 sq. ft.). Price: Condos: $249,500-$380,000, Townhomes: $399,000-$476,000. Contact: Gilded Age, 314.771.7171, gilded-age.com. SMILE LOFTS 2001 S. 9th St., Soulard. Units: 19 (900-1,600 sq. ft.). Rent: $900$1,500/mo. Contact: Red Brick Management, 314.361.7067, ext. 130, smilelofts.com. SOULARD MARKET Loft APARTMENTS 1531 S. 8th St., Soulard. Units: 132 (733-1,200 sq. ft.). Rent: $795-$1,650/ mo. Contact: Bruce Development Co., 314.588.9990, brucedevelopment.com.
University City 900 N. MCKNIGHT CONDOMINIUMS 900 N. McKnight Rd. Units: 18 (1,2001,500 sq. ft.). Price: $299,000-$399,000. Rent: $1,500-$2,000/mo. Contact: Douglas Properties, 314.725.9911, douglasproperties.com.
Kirkwood/ Maplewood/Webster Groves/Brentwood 100 KIRKWOOD PLACE 320 S. Kirkwood Rd., Kirkwood. Units: 96 (1,350-2,900 sq. ft.). Price: high $300,000s-$1 million. Contact: Hayden Homes, 314.434.5840 ext. 110, 100kirkwoodplace.com. HANLEY STATION 1801 S. Hanley Rd., Brentwood. Units: 150 (770-1,227 sq. ft.). Price: $200,000$300,000. Contact: MLP Investments, 314.569.2005, hanleystation.com.
Creve Coeur KINGS LANDING 618 N. New Ballas Rd., Units: 152 (670-1,740 sq. ft.). Rent: $1,850-$2,300/ mo. Contact: MLP Investments, 314.579.0200, Dena Reed, mlpllc.com.
WEST VILLAGE 652 Emerson Rd. Units: 24 (1,020-1,515 sq. ft.). Price: $210,000-$305,000. Contact: Christine Sabo, 314.898.3464, westvillagecondos.com.
LAFAYETTE WALK 1001 E. Mississippi Ave., Lafayette Square. Units: 37 (1,700-2,250 sq. ft.). Price: $289,900-$339,000. Contact: Orchard Development Group, 314.436.5558. alivemag.com
dining out
West County welcomes a new Italian restaurant You’ll applaud the cuisine and the atmosphere at Bravo! Cucina Italiana. By Cristy Miller | Photo by Liz Reiff Sloan Lobster Ravioli
> Any restaurant attached to a shopping mall can be daunting—places like T.G.I. Fridays and Applebee’s tend to taint our opinions before we walk in the door. But not all mall eateries are equal—Bravo! Cucina Italiana is definitely worth a trip, whether you’re putting your credit card to work shopping at West County Center and get hungry or just want an upscale Italian meal. The Scene The large dining room commands attention from every angle—large, white pillars dominate most of the space and the elongated open kitchen is visible from anywhere you sit. The bar never sees a dull moment and is usually packed with couples or spectators watching a game on one of the flat screens. The scene here is lively, with a mix of casually dressed mallgoers and a crowd of well-heeled West County-ites. Applaud-Worthy Appetizers Hot bread served with an unexpected mix of olive oil with sundried tomatoes, basil and rosemary was a welcomed prologue to the meal. And appetizers arrived fast—the crispy mozzarella ravioli is fried, stuffed with ample cheese and served with a creamy horseradish sauce. The lobster bisque, although a little too hearty to enjoy during a St. Louis summer, was satisfying with cream and tender lobster, and blended 84 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
with a hint of sherry and topped with diced shrimp. There’s also calamari fritti, cheese ravioli and a mix of salads, including a zesty wood-grilled tenderloin salad splashed with horseradish dressing. A Taste of Tuscany The menu of pizza and pasta selections are as large as the portions—the pasta pomodoro with chicken, delicate thin noodles tossed with caramelized onions, tomatoes and wood-grilled chicken slices is a dish large enough to share. The penne Mediterranean is a colorful blend of spinach, sun dried tomatoes, feta cheese bits and pine nuts lightly enveloped with olive oil. The rosemary grilled shrimp tasted fresh and was as aromatic, combining Gulf shrimp, marinated and served over a sauté of orzo, Kalamata olives, onions and pine nuts. A tilapia I had on one visit was so flaky and fresh, I hardly felt it was fair to top it with lemon butter and lump crab, but thankfully, it was enjoyable and served with crispy potatoes. The dessert options are far too good to pass up, ranging from the Italian stand-in, Affogato di Gelato and Tiramisu to a delightful warm berry cake served with a scoop of vanilla bean gelato and fresh berries, including strawberries and raspberries. An off-the-menu special on my last visit was strawberry shortcake topped with fresh strawberries. The light, airy cake was infused with lemoncello, adding an extra zing to the dessert— I would recommend an encore (15 West County Center, West County, 314.821.2562).
{ INSIDE DISH }
editor’s picks Tips for a top-notch experience at Bravo! appetizer to order:
Crispy Mozzarella Ravioli Best Dish:
Wood-Grilled Tilapia with crab To-Die-For Dessert:
Warm Berry Cake with vanilla gelato Best Place to Perch:
The charming patio with large, well-covered tables
alivemag.com
alivemag.com
85 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
hot spot
Sushi and sake in the CWE Chi Sushi is a bright spot on the sushi scene. By Amy De La Hunt | Photo by Liz Reiff Sloan
{ FYI }
Know Before You Go The Veggie combo roll, with avocado, carrot and cucumber at Chi.
BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE At the bar, to interact with the chef
Chi Sushi’s bright blue sign tells potential customers strolling along Euclid Avenue all they need to know in a single word: SUSHI. In a cosmopolitan neighborhood like the Central West End, it’s a safe bet most everyone knows a little about sushi, so the no-nonsense order forms the servers hand out when you sit down in the colorful little dining room contain just the basics. Listed are the category (appetizers; sashimi, or raw fish; nigiri, or rice topped with fish; and various rolls), the price and the ingredients. Fill it out, turn it in, and watch the chef go to work while you sit back with your drinks. Wait—that sign should say SAKE, too, because Chi Sushi has a nice selection of the fermented rice beverage, as well as beers and specialty martinis. The sake comes from three large Japanese brewers, Sho Chikubai, Ozeki and Gekkeikan, and comparing them will give you insights into the drink’s styles and nuances. If you’re serious about sampling, go with the ginjo quality level. The bar also mixes some flavorsome sake martinis, ranging from sweet plum or peach flavors to a saketini with vermouth, gin and sake. Happy hour’s the best time to visit Chi Sushi. Between 4pm and 6pm appetizers, some alcoholic beverages and a good portion of the sushi menu will be either half priced or good for a buy-one-get-one-free deal. You won’t be labeled a geezer for taking advantage of these early bird specials—even before 6pm, the crowd has a hip, in-the-know feel.
86 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
MUST-TRY DRINK Any of the ginjo sakes ROLL CALL The Firecracker DRESS CODE Cosmopolitan and casual A TASTE OF ADVENTURE Salmon roe nigiri
Under its previous name, Chayoon Sushi, the restaurant earned several “best sushi” awards, and the quality is still there. We particularly liked the rolls with a kick, like the spicy tuna medium roll and the firecracker specialty roll. Quite a few rolls feature fruits—who knew mango was such a good flavor pairing with yellowtail?—and if ordering roe in nigiri sushi extends your adventurous spirit a little too far, give it a try in a roll, like the very tasty masago in several of the thick and specialty rolls. Servers tend to assume a basic level of knowledge, but they’re perfectly willing to help the uninitiated and explain what everything is once your order arrives. Though you technically could come in just for drinks, it’s nearly impossible to resist the sushi, especially when you’re sitting at the bar watching the chef. So perhaps that bright blue sign out front is appropriate after all (4 N. Euclid Ave., Central West End, 314.367.2209).
alivemag.com
St. Louis Restaurant Guide Log on to alivemag.com for an expanded list of recommended spots to dine, drink and dance. Photos by Josh Monken =
key
Central West End/ The Grove Agave 4198 Manchester Rd., 314.652.4283. This Mexican Tequileria offers 100 percent blue agave tequilas to sip while enjoying the upscale Mexican offerings. Lunch Tues.-Fri. and dinner served Tues.-Sun. $$
shop offering muffins, cookies, specialty coffee drinks and, of course, cupcakes. These deliciously moist creations will keep your palate entertained. Open daily Mon.-Sat. $
*
Atomic Cowboy 4140 Manchester Ave., 314.775.0775. This casual environment serves a Baja Fresh menu of Tex-Mex dishes, a noteworthy house sangria and over 25 labels of premium tequila. Lunch Mon.-Fri. and dinner daily. $
*
BOATHOUSE CAFÉ 6101 Government Dr., Forest Park, 314.367.2224. A perfect place to bring the kids or enjoy a romantic night out and sup on American classics. Lunch and dinner served daily, Sun. brunch. $ Chi 4 N. Euclid Ave., 314.367.2209. This trendy Japanese sushi bar has the best St. Louis sushi rolls around, and their fruit-infused sake is a must-sip. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. $ Companion 4651 Maryland Ave., 314.352.4770. This upscale bakery goes far beyond making bread, creating a gourmet menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breakfast and lunch served daily. $
*
CrÊpes: etc. 52 Maryland Plaza, 314.367.2200. This upscale patisserie takes a modern twist on a French classic, serving both sweet and savory crêpes as well as a variety of homemade pastries, soups and sandwiches. Breakfast and lunch served daily. Dinner served Mon.-Sat. $ the Cupcakery 28 S. Maryland Plaza Rear, 314.367.6111. Enjoy a variety of unique creations from St. Louis’ first gourmet cupcake
the Drunken Fish 1 Maryland Plaza, 314.367.4222. This stylish sushi lounge with an extensive Japanese menu offers everything from tuna tataki to traditional rolls. Arrive late night for DJs and karaoke. Lunch Mon.-Fri. and dinner served daily. $$
*
Eau Bistro and Café 212-232 N. Kingshighway Blvd., 314.454.9000. Delicious New American cuisine by day and a hip see-and-be-seen spot at night. Bistro serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, Sun. brunch. Café serves lunch and dinner daily. $$
*
Herbie’s Vintage 72 405 N. Euclid Ave., 314.769.9595. A beloved classic is reborn under the direction of the Monarch duo. Serves contemporary American in an elegant atmosphere. Lunch served Mon.-Fri. and dinner daily. Sun. brunch. $$
*
*
Maryland House 4659A Maryland Ave., 314.361.9444. This upscale lounge is hidden in a converted apartment above Brennan’s. Featuring a tapas menu, cocktail menu and sleek contemporary décor, it’s the ultimate hipster destination. Dinner served Thurs.-Sat. $
alivemag.com
MOXY 4584 Laclede Ave., 314.361.4848. Come for the mix of flavorful global cuisine in a hip, contemporary bistro with an eclectic wine list and top-floor Moxy Lounge. Lunch Mon-Thurs. and dinner served Mon.-Sat. $$$ NANCY’S PLACE 4510 Manchester Ave., 314.533.3699. Nancy’s Place newest and hottest bar and Lounge. The upscale smoke-free bar caters to the discriminating female, and appeals to men and women of all orientations. Enjoy great entertainment and indulge in fine libations. Open Tues.-Sat. $
*
Novak’s Bar & Grill 4121 Manchester, 314.531.3699. Novak’s is known as a top bar and dance destination for the city’s gay and lesbian crowd— stop in for burgers, apps and live music as well. $
sive food selection, including sandwiches, beignets, pastries and coffee. Open daily. $$
*
Chuy arzola’s 3701 Lindell Blvd., 314.644.4430. The relaxed atmosphere of the recently opened Chuy’s pairs perfectly with their TexMex cuisine. Spicy fajitas and chilled margaritas complete the laidback Tex-Mex vibe. Lunch and dinner daily. $ CIELO 999 N. 2nd Street St., 314.881.2105. Located at the Four Seasons Hotel and serves contemporary Italian and American dishes such as seared sea scallops, filet mignon and house-made pasta and desserts. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily. $$$
*
The Pasta House 313 N. Euclid Ave., 314.367.1144. Authentic Italian fare including the infamous Pasta House Co. salad, toasted ravioli and spaghetti. Lunch and dinner served daily. Multiple locations; pastahouse.com. $$ Rasoi 25 N. Euclid Ave., 314.361.6911 Serving both Northern and Southern Indian cuisine, a rarity among Indian restaurants in St. Louis, this eye-catching destination serves authentic dishes like chicken curry, kabobs and lamb chops. Lunch and dinner served daily. $
*
~Scape 48 Maryland Plaza, 314.361.7227. This contemporary bistro offers a variety of traditional American fare with a European twist. Lunch served Tues.-Fri. and dinner served Tues.-Sun., Sun. brunch. $$$
*
Sub Zero 308 N. Euclid Ave., 314.367.1200. Over 140 international labels of vodka, a wonderfully large list of drinks and sushi and a new build-your-own burger menu in the new expanded area. Dinner served daily. $$
*
The Tenderloin Room 232 N. Kingshighway Blvd., 314.361.0900. Refined dining has never tasted so good, with a selection of filets, sirloin and lamb as well as seafood and gourmet appetizers served in an elegant dining space. Lunch Tues.-Fri. and dinner daily. $$$
*
Midtown/Downtown Bubba Tea & Café 417 N. 10th Street, 314.231.5282. Serves traditional bubble tea drinks and coffee beverages and breakfast eats as well as lunch panini menu. Breakfast and lunch Mon.-Fri. $
*
Café Ventana 3919 W. Pine Blvd., 314.531.7500. This French Quarter-inspired coffeehouse has an exten-
alivemag.com
Reference Reference Reference Reference We would love to help create a perfect enviroment for your special occasion. Everything from an intimate cocktail reception to a large charity gala.
Clark Street Grill 811 Spruce St., 314.552.5850. This modern restaurant includes an open kitchen, live music and a menu of globally influenced dishes. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily. $$$ CrEpes in the City 500 N. 14th St., 314.436.1900. A hotspot for sweet and savory crêpes, coffee and a variety of other delicious eats. Breakfast and lunch Tues.-Sun. and dinner Fri.-Sat. $
*
Espresso Mod 210 N. 9th St., 314.436.3240. Serving gelato, sandwiches, bagels, cookies and, of course, coffee, this blast-from-the-past place is great for a quick caffeine break or mid-day snack. Breakfast and lunch served Mon.-Fri. $
*
The Fountain on Locust 3037 Locust St., 314.535.7800. Sandwiches, soups, salads and decadent desserts await you at this colorful ice cream parlor and eatery. Lunch and dinner Tues.-Sun. $
*
Harry’s Downtown Restaurant & Bar 2144 Market St., 314.421.6969. This eclectic bistro is understatedly refined, serving a wide range of cuisine. Lunch is Mon.-Fri. and dinner served daily. $$ Houlihan’s 147 St. Louis Union Station, 314.436.0844. Casual family atmosphere with great burgers and other finger foods. Boasts one of the best happy hour specials in the city. Lunch
Please visit us at www.sollounge.com
and dinner daily. Multiple locations; houlihans.com. $$
he
Or
al igin
Chuy Arzola’s
is B ac k !
T
*
Kitchen K 1000 Washington Ave., 314.241.9900. This hip spot serves New American fare and is located in the Merchandise Mart Loft building. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat. $$$
*
Lucas Park Grille 1234 Washington Ave., 314.241.7770. A seasonal menu with fresh ingredients such as soups, salads and New American entrees offer something for everyone. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily, Sat.Sun. brunch. $$$
*
HAPPY HOUR
*
Mosaic 1001 Washington Ave., 314.621.6001. This modern fusion restaurant offers an array of cold and hot tapas. Lunch Mon.-Fri. and dinner served daily. $$
*
Monday – Friday 3pm – 6pm
FEATURING FOOD & DRINK SPECIALS!
LATE NIGHT HAPPY HOUR Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10pm – 12am
Every Sunday 9am to 2pm Nadoz Euro Bakery & Café 3701 Lindell Blvd., 314.446.6800. This sophisticated and casual café/bakery offers homemade desserts, coffee drinks and more. Breakfast, lunch and late-night snacks served daily, Sun. brunch. $
*
Old Rock House 1200 S. 7th Blvd., 314.588.0505. The Rock House is a high-end live music club with an integrated music scene and great dining. Lunch Tues.-Fri. and dinner served Tues.-Sat., bar serves until 1:30am. $
*
The Pepper Lounge 2005 Locust St., 314.241.2005. Retro lamps and cozy booths complete the atmosphere at this hip bar and nightclub. $$
*
Monday -wednesday: 11am to 10pm Thursday & Friday: 11am to midnight Saturday: 11am to midnight Sunday: 9am to 9pm Now Located in the Coronado • 3701 Lindell Blvd. • (314) 644-4430 parking avaiLaBLe in rear garage - Lower LeveL
chuyarzolas.com
Araka 131 Carondelet Plaza, 314.725.6777. This gorgeous restaurant in Clayton’s The Crescent features delicious European-inspired cuisine. Lunch Mon.-Fri. and dinner served daily. $$$
*
BARcelona 34 N. Central Ave., 314.863.9909. A St. Louis see-and-be-seen stop to nosh on Spanish tapas. Lunch Mon.-Fri. and dinner served daily. $$
*
Brio Tuscan Grille 1601 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 314.432.4410. Savory Italian in a laid back atmosphere make this Frontenac favorite a must-visit for a family-friendly meal or a romantic night out. Brunch served on weekends, lunch and dinner served daily. $$$ Gourmet Foodworks Deli 8135 Maryland Ave., 314.863.5064. You’ll find salads, sandwiches, soups, wraps and more at this Clayton deli. Dine in or carry out, you’re guaranteed fresh and housemade items. Open daily. $
Now Serving Brunch Featuring Tex-Mex Eggs Benedict, Breakfast Tacos, Spanish Mimosas and More!
*
WAVE Taco 1335 Convention Plaza, 314.241.8226. Offering some of the freshest Mexican food in St. Louis, Wave Taco is as close to Mexico as St. Louis gets, equipped with sand volleyball courts and all. Open daily. $$
Clayton/Ladue
Mike Shannon’s 620 N. Market St., 314.421.1540. This 20-year-old St. Louis landmark serves upscale American cuisine. Stop by the expansive “The Outfield,” powered by The Pepper Lounge, beer garden for some pre- or post-game spirits. Lunch Mon.-Fri. and dinner served daily. $$
St. Louis’ Original Tex-Mex Fajitas & Margaritas
Smoking Joes 1901 Washington Ave., 314.436.3876. Smoked and seasoned to perfection, you’ll find just about any type of Memphis-style barbeque at this new Downtown joint. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. $
Sen Thai Bistro 1221 Locust St., 314.436.3456. This casual bistro is known for its original Thai curry, noodle, soups and fresh seafood dishes. Lunch Mon.Fri. and dinner served daily. $$
*
Sleek 999 N. 2nd St., 314.881.7595. This upscale steakhouse is one of Hubert Keller’s signature restaurants. Dinner served daily. $$$
*
J Buck’s 101 S. Hanley Rd., 314.725.4700. A Clayton staple for business lunches and happy hours. Flavorful offerings include classic favorites like pizza, pasta, burgers and baby back ribs. Multiple locations. Lunch and dinner daily. $$$
*
Kaldi’s 700 DeMun Ave., 314.727.9955; 187 Carondelet Plaza, 314.726.2900. Offers plenty of options, like flavored coffees and premium blends. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily. $ Katie’s Pizzeria 6611 Clayton Rd., 314.727.8585. This charming pizzeria is a little piece of Italy that offers appetizers, fresh house salads and a selection of delicious pizzas. Lunch and dinner served daily. $
*
Molly Darcys 26 N. Meramec, 314.863.8400. You can’t go wrong with this Irish restaurant’s selection of rustic dishes like fish and chips or beef and Guinness stew. Located in the Seven gables Inn, the restaurant is cozy and perfect to enjoy frothy libations. $$ My Daddy’s Cheesecake Bakery & Café 6451 Clayton Rd., 314.725.9555. alivemag.com
Made-from-scratch sandwiches, pastries and, of course, cheesecake is what you’ll find at this newly opened bakery. Breakfast and lunch and dinner served daily. $
*
Océano 44 N. Brentwood Blvd., 314.721.9400. St. Louis’ premier seafood bistro is an elegant addition to the Clayton dining scene. Lunch and dinner served daily. $$$
*
Roxane 12 N. Meramec Ave., 314.721.7700. Tucked away in a corner of Clayton, this small tapas-style spot is home to a very bohemian atmosphere. $$
South City/ Hampton/The Hill Absolutli Goosed 3196 S. Grand Blvd., 314.771.9300. With an updated and improved décor, this bar is better than ever, yet still serves the same great martinis. Open Mon.-Sat. $ Aya Sofia 6671 Chippewa St., 314.645.9919. Add a dash of culture to your diet with exotic Turkish and Mediterranean delights. Open Tues.-Sun. $$
*
Onesto Pizza & Trattoria 5401 Finkman St., 314.802.8883. Fresh, creative pies, like the Gut Buster and the classic margherita, as well as fresh pastas, sandwiches and Italian appetizers, await you at this charming South City spot. Lunch Mon.-Sat. and dinner Wed.-Mon. $$
*
Van Goghz 3200 Shenandoah Ave., 314.865.3345. With martinis served in every flavor, chillin’ with your favorite cocktail among the display of local art is easy. Open daily. $
Lafayette Square/ Benton Park/Soulard Franco 1535 S. 8th St., 314.436.2500. This cool bistro serves country French fare with a modern twist. Lunch Mon.-Fri.Dinner served Mon.-Sat. $$
*
be haunted, serves lunch and dinner with options like beef Wellington, shrimp linguine and tilapia. Also features murder mystery dinner theater and Sunday family-style dinners. Lunch Mon.-Fri. and dinner Thurs.-Sat. $$
*
SqWires 1415 S. 18th St., 314.865.3522. A seasonal menu features fresh interpretations of American classics. Lunch Mon.-Fri. and dinner served daily. $$$ The Stable 1821 Cherokee St., 314.771.8500. This brew house, distillery and pizzeria features baconwrapped dates, housemade grinders and an array of pizza and pasta. Located in the historic Cherokee Street district. $
*
*
Yemanja Brasil 2900 Missouri Ave., 314.771.7457. In homage to her Brazilian roots, owner and renowned artist Lemya Sidki adorned her charming restaurant with culture-centered paintings, Hammocks and created a gorgeous tropical garden patio. Stop in for fresh, authentic Brazilian cuisine. Dinner served Tues.-Sun. $$$
University City/ The Loop
Joanie’s Pizzeria 2101 Menard St. 314.865.1994 Not only do they serve a great slice of pie, but Joanie’s Pizzeria also offers hearty Italian appetizers, sandwiches and pasta, all in the heart of historic Soulard. Lunch and dinner served daily. $$
Blueberry Hill 6504 Delmar Blvd., 314.727.4444. Joe Edwards’ flagship restaurant is as synonymous with St. Louis as the Arch—it’s a landmark restaurant not to be missed. $
alivemag.com
try our signaturE BEignEts!
*
Sidney Street Cafe 2000 Sidney St., 314.771.5777. Whether it’s a special occasion or just an average night out, this Benton Park spot excels at American cuisine with French and southern influences. Dinner served Tues.-Sat. $$$
609 Lounge 609 Eastgate Ave., 314.721.9168. Potent drinks and a great line-up of local DJs make this sexy spot a must for any night out. $$,
Lemp Mansion Restaurant & Inn 3322 DeMenil St., 314.664.8024. This historic mansion, furnished with antiques and believed to
Coffee | Breakfast | lunCh | dinner | sPirits
Park Avenue Coffee 1919 Park Ave., 314.621.4020. Not your average coffee shop—enjoy Chauvin coffee, bagels, house-made muffins, smoothies and a selection of over 40 gooey butter cakes. Open daily. $
Frazer’s 1811 Pestalozzi St., 314.773.8646. Serving creative cuisine in an eclectic, comfortable atmosphere.. Lunch Mon.-Fri. and dinner served Mon.-Sat. $$
*
®
*
Mississippi Mud 2101 Cherokee St., 314.776.6599. Fresh-roasted coffee, sandwiches, soups and pastries all served here in the heart of the Cherokee-Lemp Historic District. Open daily. $
Blue Ocean Sushi 609 Eastgate Ave., 314.721.9168. This contemporary Japanese restaurant serves all-you-caneat sushi and à la carte items, such as chicken teriyaki, tempura, and other popular Japanese/
WEEkEnd jazz Brunch saturday & sunday ‘til 2Pm
LivE jazz from 11am – 1Pm Bananas foster frenCh toast, BisCuits & GraVy, Cheese Blintzes & more!
Enjoy onE of our thrEE w outdoor Patios! Happy Hour monday - friday: 3 P.m. - 7 P.m. Hours sunday - Wednesday: 6.30 a.m. - 11 P.m. thursday - saturday: 6.30 a.m. - 12 a.m.
Cafe Ventana ® · 3919 West Pine BouleVard (314) 531-7500 · CafeVentana.Com
Proud Supporter of SITEMAN CANCER CENTER The Advertisers Printing Company Custom Graphic Communication Since 1923
Asian cuisine. Lunch and dinner served daily. $
* Jilly’s Cupcake Bar
8509 Delmar Blvd., 314.993.5455. With more than just cupcakes to satisfy a sweet tooth, this bakery serves soups, salads, sandwiches and more. Open daily. $$ Momos 630 North and South Rd., 314.863.3511. A hip, eclectic tapas bar and tavern serving traditional Greek fare. Lunch Mon.-Sat. and dinner served nightly. $$
Kirkwood/ Maplewood/ Webster Groves
VOTE! 2009 2009
CYRANO’S 603 E. Lockwood Ave., 314.963.3232. Cyrano’s offers delicious gourmet desserts, plus a fantastic New American menu. Lunch and dinner served daily. $$ Highway 61 Roadhouse & Kitchen 34 S. Old Orchard Rd., 314.968.0061. This southernstyle restaurant offers everything from pulled pork sandwiches to BBQ spaghetti. Lunch and dinner served daily. $ the jive & Wail dueling pianos 7376 Manchester Rd., 314.781.7000. From dueling pianos to unique pub fare, this Maplewood hot spot has it all. Dinner served daily. $$ La Salsa Grill 140 S. Kirkwood Rd., 314.821.8890. La Salsa Grill serves their authentic, fresh Mexican cuisine and features two happy hours daily. $
*
Maya Café 2726 Sutton Blvd., 314.781.4774. Featuring Pan-Latin and Mexican cuisine, this Maplewood destination is a great getaway with a festive atmosphere and potent drinks. Lunch and dinner served Tues.-Sat. $$
LOG ON TO
alivemag.com/sexyandsuccessful
AND VOTE!
ALIVE MAGAZINE IS SEARCHING FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS WHO ARE THE “TOTAL PACKAGE”–SEXY, SAVVY AND SUCCESSFUL–AND WE WANT YOU TO CHOOSE!
Mihalis Chophouse 1603 McCausland Ave., 314.333.3301. Glam golden interiors and a dramatic bar flanked by lounge furniture make Mihalis a gorgeous destination to dine on traditional steakhouse fare. Dinner served Tues.-Sat. $$$
*
Monarch 7401 Manchester Rd., 314.644.3995. The romantic atmosphere and extensive wine selection at this upscale restaurant perfectly complement the global fusion fare. Lunch Tues.-Fri. and dinner served Tues.-Sat. $$$
*
Robust Wine Shoppe & Café 227 W. Lockwood Ave., 314.963.0033. Inspired by Sommelier Stanley Browne,
this café is perfect for anyone interested in indulging in their love for food and wine. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat. $$
Creve Coeur/ Maryland Heights/ West County/ Chesterfield Bravo! Cucina Italiana 15 West County Center, 314.821.2562. Upscale restaurant meets casual eatery at Bravo!, a new dining destination in West County and the first location of this national favorite to open in St. Louis. Expect delectable, made-to-order Italian food and a welcoming atmosphere. Lunch and dinner served daily. $$$
*
BRISTOL SEAFOOD GRILL 11801 Olive Blvd., 314.567.0272. This grill offers an array of seafood, steak and more signature selections. Lunch served Mon.Fri. and dinner Mon.-Sat., Sun. brunch. $$$, Caito’s Pizzeria 414 THF Blvd., 636.530.9222. This casual family-oriented restaurant, now with a new location in Webster Groves, offers pasta dishes, sandwiches, salads and pizza in a Tuscanthemed environment. Lunch and dinner served daily. $$ THE COUNTRY CLUB BAR & GRILL 288 Lamp & Lantern Village, 636. 256.7201. Serves hearty American cuisine and traditional classics from burgers to crab cakes. The patio is a must during summer. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat. $$ IL BEL LAGO 11631 Olive Blvd., 314.994.1080. Boasts an extravagant Italian menu in an elegant Italian restaurant. Lunch Mon.-Fri. and dinner served Mon.-Sat. $$$ Paul Mineo’s Trattoria 333 Westport Plaza Dr., 314.878.8180. This cozy restaurant in the heart of Westport Plaza provides a little taste of Italy that is perfect for any night out. Lunch Mon.-Fri. and dinner Mon.-Sat. $$$ SEASONS ST. LOUIS 79 Forum Center, 314.469.2210 Featuring beautifully crafted dishes made with regional fare, inspired by the seasons and always fresh. Dinner Tues.-Sat. $$$ STONEWOLF 2400 Taylor Rd., 636.273.6800 Come during happy hour and sample from long necks, martinis, premium wells, draft beers and Robert Mondavi Private Reserve wine. This Wildwood spot serves steaks, burgers and seafood. Lunch served Sun. and dinner daily. $$
alivemag.com
Why Wait?
Look Your Summer Best!
“Thanks to the staff at Kingston Dental and Invisalign, I’ll never have to worry about braces ruining a first impression.” –Christy Vogel
Other Services Include: • ZOOM! Whitening
• Veneers & Dental Implants
• Invisalign (clear removable braces) For as little as $189 a month!
• Sleep Disorders - Sleep Apnea - Snoring - CPAP Alternative
Kingston Dental Care
Dr. Ronald K. Greif, DDS & Dr. Sam E. Ruvinov,DDS, A.F.A.A. of Implant Dentistry
4442 Telegraph Rd. • 1/2 mile south of I-255 in Oakville • 314-487-0052
Visit our website: www.KingstonDentalSTL.com
NEW PATIENT SPECIAL $59 Complete Exam Includes Full Mouth X-Rays, Gum Exam & Consultation (regularly $328) expires 8/28/09
OR
NEW PATIENTS ONLY
No Charge Consultation for Sleep Disorders expires 8/28/09
Join us for the
Connect With... The arts event
Thursday, August 13 located at Black Label, 758 south 4th street, st. louis (across from Broadway oyster Bar) | Parking available from 5:30-11:00pm (performances until 8pm only) $10 In aDVanCe, $15 aT THe Door. Buy tickets at alivemag.com For more information, contact Nikki Weinstein at 314-622-1250 x 102 Connect With... a ground-breaking effort, facilitated by foCUS St. Louis, of more than 40 young professional organizations to engage st. louisans more in their community through arts & culture, community service, diversity initiatives, professional development, and networking.
see schedule of events at
www.ConnectWithStL.com
performanCeS: Interactive art stations from the Saint Louis art museum and the missouri Botanical Gardens
live circus performers from Circus flora living history performers from the missouri History museum Behind the scenes video from opera Theatre of Saint Louis cultural performers organized by the International Institute
Plus music, live painting demos and more!
FEATURED FACES OF ST. LOUIS: CHEFS
owner/executive chef eric brenner
executive chef pete minney
moxy bistro
the pasta house co.
First dish you learned to cook: Princess chicken, an Asian dish. • First job: My friend’s family restaurant “Cecco’s.” We worked for food (he works for me now) • Inspiration: Travel, getting out to see what everyone else is up to
Comfort food: Southern fried
chef & partner eric kelly
chef josh striplin
~scape american bistro
Education/Culinary school: L’Ecole Culinaire St. Louis • Comfort food: Macaroni & cheese • Favorite ingredient: Fennel • Last meal on earth: Cassoulet • Signature dish: Risotto
chicken • Favorite ingredient: Wine • Last meal on earth: My mother’s homemade chicken pot pie • First dish you learned to cook: Grilled cheese with tomato soup • Favorite celebrity chef: Mario Batali
seasons st.louis
Education/Culinary school: Arizona State, California Culinary Academy, California Sushi Academy • Comfort food: Braised beef short rib with spaetzle • Favorite ingredient: South American chocolate • Inspiration: My kids
chef benjamin alexander mcnabb
owner/chef mehmet yildiz
seasons st.louis
Comfort food: Chupra fish and raki (anise liquor from Turkey) • Favorite ingredient: Fresh seafood • First job: Sold fresh produce in Turkey • Favorite celebrity chef: Gordon Ramsey
Education/Culinary school: L’Ecole Culinaire St. Louis • Favorite ingredient: Tomatoes • First dish you learned to cook: Spaghetti First Job: Line cook • Inspiration: Fresh, quality ingredients
aya sofia
executive sous chef beau scott meadows top of the riverfront, millennium hotel
Favorite ingredient: Asian and Indian curries • Last meal on earth: Spaghetti • Signature dish: Duck confit • First dish you learned to cook: Steak Modiga
alivemag.com
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
95 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
W NERY
GUIDE
Wine goes back a long time in Missouri. In pre-Civil War America, Missouri was the number two wine-producing state. Prohibition ruined the market at the time, but today, more than 80 wineries call Missouri home. They expertly craft exclusive and unusual varieties, and thanks to their diligence, the Missouri wine market is growing rapidly. The number of wineries in Missouri has nearly doubled since 2003, and since 2005, Missouri wines have consistently won awards from national and international competitions. The future is bright for this bourgeoning wine country. So forgo that pricey trip to Napa Valley in favor of two of the area’s top, must-visit wineries that are just a pleasant day trip away. DD
Z
Winghaven Country K Club
N
Weldon 94 Spring
Whitmoor Country Club
D Missouri Bluffs Golf Club
DD
Spirit of St. Louis Airport
94 F
Defiance Boone Valley Golf Course
Babler Memorial State Park
Mount Pleasant Winery
64-40 CC
Chesterfield
109
Greensfelder Park
For more than 20 years, Mount Pleasant has been growing Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay on more than 85 acres of grapevines in the heart of the Augusta Appellation wine district. A relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, Mount Pleasant features a wine list that spans the world, so you are sure to find something to excite your tastes. After touring the winery, unwind with your favorite wine while dining on the delicious picnic fare from the Mount Pleasant Grocery and Grill. Mount Pleasant Winery
5634 High St., Augusta 636.482.WINE (9463), mountpleasant.com ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
55
Illinois
Valles Mines
3
67 61
St. Francois State Parke
Ste. Genevieve
Bonne Terre
61 32
55 Hawn State Park
St. Joe State Park
Crown Valley Winery
Farmington 67
DD
Z
Winghaven Country Club
Harvester
N K
Weldon Spring
94 Whitmoor Country Club
D Missouri Bluffs Golf Club
DD
Bonhomme Island
Spirit of St. Louis Airport
94 F
Located in historic and scenic Ste. Genevieve, Crown Valley Winery overlooks lush vineyards and captivating countryside. With an expansive wine selection from red to white, fruit to rose, sparkling to limited editions, there is something sure to please everyone. Enjoy an assortment of sausages, cheeses, gourmet snacks and fine cigars to complement the wine of your choice at Crown Valley’s bistro.
64-40 CC
Chesterfield 340
Defiance Boone Valley Golf Course
Babler Memorial State Park
109
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
Crown Valley Winery
23589 State Route WW Ste. Genevieve 866.207.9463 crownvalleywinery.com
OUTDOORdiningguide
TABLE THREE Located in the heart of Wildwood in the stylish new town center, Table Three offers fresh American Contemporary Cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. Beautifully designed, the interior is a warm, eclectic mix of contemporary French infused with rustic charm. Have a long lunch with co-workers over our famous Chicken Salad and indulge in our delectable Crème Brûlée. Enjoy drinks on the patio with friends while taking in live entertainment every Friday and Saturday night. Come visit us soon; your table is waiting!
refreshing Summer Dish: Tuna NiÇoise Something you Might Not Know: The name “Table Three” represents the third restaurant opened by Beth Williams. Must-try Menu Item: Frito Misto Ideal pairing: Seafood Carbonara paired with Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio Wildwood town center 16765 Main Street wildwood, missouri 63040 table-three.com • 636.458.4333 98 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
alivemag.com SPE CI A L A DV E R TI S I N G S EC T I ON
AYA SOFIA Aya Sofia has won ALIVE’s “Best Mediterranean” honor three years in a row.
nightlife on the web. sparkly and fresh. just like us.
refreshing Summer Dish: Pan-seared and grilled whole chupra, accompanied with a red onion salad and pearl couscous Something YOU Might Not Know: Aya Sofia now has a wine patio. Special wine classes and food pairings this summer will be hosted by their sommelier. Make your reservations now.
Must-try Menu Item: Meze Platter, a combination of their four most popular appetizers 6671 Chippewa St. • St. Louis Hills • 314.645.9919 ayasofiacuisine.com
JOANIE’S PIZZERIA Joanie’s, located in the historic Soulard neighborhood, offers a nice, cozy atmosphere, delicious dining and a great outdoor patio. Joanie’s has been serving great pizza, fresh salads, sandwiches and pastas for 15 years. Sports fans can catch Joanie’s shuttle to any local sporting event free of charge.
refreshing Summer Dish: Pizza Margherita-fresh tomatoes, mozzarella and basil
Something you Might Not Know: There really is a Joanie, and she grew up just blocks from the pizzeria. 2101 Menard St. • Soulard • 314.865.1994 • joanies.com alivemag.com S P EC I A L A DV E R T IS IN G S E C TI O N
THURSDAY
Late Night Happy Hour Drink & Appetizer Specials 10 PM-3 AM
RASOI Known for its creative and vibrant interior, Rasoi now brings the same inviting ambiance to the outdoors with its new, beautiful patio. Dine under the charming canopy encircled by palm trees and fresh air as you savor the “many flavors of India.”
25 N. EUCLID AVE. 314.361.6911 RASOI.COM
CENTRALWESTEND
CENTRALWESTEND
OUT
GETTING GUIDE
SOHA
MAPLEWOOD
Using only the freshest ingredients, Onesto offers made-from-scratch dishes. Dine on our new patio while enjoying daily lunch specials, a new beer and wine list and many delicious menu items.
417 N. 10th St. 314.231.5282 BubbaTeaCafe.com
Public Ice Skating All Day, Every Day–Including all Holidays. 2009–2010 Season: Nov 14–Feb 28
SnowFlake Café Bonfire 314.361.0613 steinbergskatingrink.com
2101 Menard ST. • 314.865.1994 • JOanie’s to go • 314.865.5800 • joanies.com
TUSCAN GRILLE
FRONTENAC
FORESTPARK
Skating
Full menu with daily specials, a large dining room and...of course, GREAT PIZZA! Patio now open!
BRIO
STEINBERG SKATING RINK Largest Outdoor Ice Rink in the Midwest.
5401 FINKMAN ST. • 314.802.8883 ONESTOPIZZA.COM vcateringandevents.com
JOANIE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA
SOULARD
downtown
bubba tea & cafe Great place to chill! We offer fine coffee, espresso drinks and bubble tea! WiFi available. We serve breakfast, lunch and late lunch. We are open from 7am-7pm on weekdays and 8am-7pm on Saturdays. Great environment!
405 n. euclid ave. 314.769.9595 herbies.com
PIZZA & TRATTORIA
MONARCH Restaurant & Wine Bar features three distinctive dining areas with a spot for every mood. Award-winning wine list with over 450 bottle selections and 40 wines by the glass. Twenty-five dishes priced between $5–$15.
7401 Manchester RD. 314.644.3995 monarchrestaurant.com
Beloved Balaban’s is reborn—Herbie’s a tribute to the original owner, revives classics such as shrimp dumplings and the famous chocolate beignets and features new, soon-to-be staples like duck confit crepes and eggplant roulade.
ONESTO
MONARCH
Hours: Mon-Sat 5-11:30pm, Wine Bar open until 1:30am
HERBIE’S VINTAGE 72
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
Brio offers a lunch, dinner and kid’s menu daily along with a brunch menu on Saturdays and Sundays. Lunch specials are only $7.95, Monday through Friday. Brio offers a warm and welcoming ambience, where you can enjoy great food. 1601 South Lindbergh Blvd. 314.432.4410 brioitalian.com
THEGROVE
NOVAK’S BAR & GRILL
Proud to be one of St. Louis’ first gay bars. VJs play everything from dance hits, disco and showtunes on the many flatscreen TVs. Six years voted #1 Gay Bar in STL. Amazing gathering spot and happy hour. Known as “Where it All Starts.”
Known city-wide as one of the top lesbian and gay bars in St. Louis drawing faithful patrons and new visitors alike with its diverse crowd, fantastic three-level party patio and regular lineup of live entertainment. Partygoers can enjoy Novak’s menu of burgers and appetizers.
16 S. Euclid Ave. 314.361.4119
Erney’s 32°
THEGROVE
THE LOADING ZONE
ABSOLUTLI GOOSED
Taking Manchester by storm, the new place to be is already the most popular hang out, look good, feel good kinda place. It’s a drink, dance kinda gathering spot. Check out the walk-in vodka room, kept at a chilly 32°, the ideal temperature for the perfect cocktail.
Bored with the regular bar scene? Looking for a quality cocktail? Look no further! Experience our unique takes on the martini as well as our extended beer & wine menu. Now open Sundays! Have you been GOOSED lately?
4200 Manchester 314.652.7195 myspace.com/erneys32
3196 S. Grand Blvd. 314.771.9300 absolutligoosed.com
JUST JOHN
GIRL FRIDAY
Experience the new Just John, St. Louis’ premier gay drinking establishment located in the heart of The Grove, and enjoy the gorgeous patio bar, nightly drink specials, fun themed nights and a sexy crowd. Check us out on facebook.com.
Girl Friday brings together St. Louis’ see-and-be-seen crowd for the hottest LGBT parties and special events in the city. For the last two years, Girl Friday has produced ULTRA, the first and only VIP event during Pridefest weekend. View party pics and sign up for event invites online at girlfridapromotions.com.
4112 Manchester Ave. 314.371.1333 justjohnsclub.com
NANCY’S PLACE
THEGROVE
4121 Manchester AVE. 314.531.3699 novaksbar.com
Erney’s 32° VODKA BAR
SOUTHCITY
THEGROVE
CENTRALWESTEND
guide to St. Louis OUT & ABOUT in stl ALGBT
Nancy’s Place (NP), the new bar and lounge, is now open for business Tues.Sat., 6pm-1:30am. The upscale bar caters to the discriminating female, and appeals to men and women of all orientations. Enjoy great entertainment and indulge in fine libations. Contact Nancy Novak at NovaksBar@yahoo. com to book a private function. 4510 Manchester Ave. 314.533.3699 nancys-place.com
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
girlfridaypromotions.com
speak the truth The 17th Annual St. Louis HRC Gala Saturday, October 24, 2009, 6:30pm Drink, dine, dance, and celebrate LGBT equality at the Human Rights Campaign’s annual fundraising gala, featuring dinner, auctions and music by Kim Massie. Tickets: $175. Purchase before October 1 and save 10%. Location: Hyatt Regency Riverfront Hotel, Downtown. For more info and tickets, go to boxofficetickets.com.
friendsbychoice wants you to
Caught on camera at the NP Launch Party hosted by Girl Friday Promotions
PARTY WITH PLANNED PARENTHOOD hosted by
(4121 Manchester Ave.)
featuring
music by DJ Landyn, flavorful condoms, & one crazy drag show
Saturday, August 1 8* pm | $5 cover* | 21+ From 8-10 pm the cover and 15% of the night’s bar sales will benefit Planned Parenthood
we’re friendsbychoice — choose wisely.
Caught on camera at showtunes tuesday at The Loading Zone
alivemag.com
A L I VE SPECIAL PROMOTION
J. Buck’s
Café Ventana®
J.Buck’s Restaurant offers the city’s best happy hour! With drink specials and half-priced appetizers Monday through Friday., 4:30pm-6:30pm in both their Clayton and Downtown locations, J. Buck’s is the perfect place to enjoy some rest and relaxation with friends (offer not valid Downtown during Cardinals home games).
Gather your gang for Café Ventana‘s Happy Hour, Monday through Friday from 3pm-7pm. Enjoy specials including Signature Cocktails, Bottled Beers & Cheese Plates as you relax on Café Ventana’s patio. Stop in and try Happy Hour, Ventana Style! MIDTOWN
3919 West Pine Blvd. 314.531.7500 cafeventana.com
CLAYTON | downtown
jbucks.com
stone wolf
Live Music Every Thursday, Friday & Saturday at 8:30 pm
grill
Open 7 days a week. Tapas from 11-11, Bar open late! Happy Hour M-F from 4-7
Chuy Arzola’s The Original Chuy Arzola’s is back! Same Food. New Location. Enjoy Happy Hour Mon.–Fri.,3pm–6pm. Sip Margaritas, Draughts & Bottled Beers while snacking on Chuy’s Tacos—all at incredible prices. Also offering Late Night Happy Hour Thurs.-Sat., 10pm-12am.
With half price drinks, Stone Wolf Grill is THE place for happy hour. Cheap long necks (Bud, Bud Light, Bud Select, Miller Lite & Coors Lite), Robert Mondavi Private Reserve wine, martinis, premium wells & draft beers. Stone Wolf Grill also has $2 off all appetizers Mon-Fri, 5pm-7pm. Call ahead for details on current specials!
MIDTOWN 3701 Lindell Blvd. AT the Coronado
wildwood
2400 Taylor road 636.273.6800
314.644.4430 chuyarzolas.com
La Salsa
yemanja brasil
Fresh Mexican Grill
Relax at Happy Hour Fridays from 5pm to 7pm. Come enjoy Brazilian caipirinhas while watching flat screen TV or playing foosball. Sample our free buffet and drink specials. Take samba lessons monthly every third Saturday at 4pm.
Enjoy La Salsa’s three happy hours: Mon.-Fri., 2pm-6pm and 9pm to close, plus all day Saturday and Sunday. Snack on $1 taquitos, $4 loaded cheese nachos, $4 quesadillas and unlimited chips and salsa as you sip Cuervo Gold house margaritas, draught and bottled beers. three great happy hours! monday through friday 2pm-6pm and 9pm-close all day saturday and sunday
benton Park
2900 Missouri Ave. 314.771.7457 brazildining.com
SQWIRES Want to be “Happy”? SqWires will delight you with 1/2 price appetizers, leave you blissful with $1 oysters, create good cheer with great drink specials. You’ll be elated to know SqWires Happy Hours are 4pm-7pm Monday through Friday. “Yappy Hours Outdoors” on the patio with your pet Wednesdays 4pm-7pm.
kirkwood
140 S. Kirkwood Rd. 314.821.8890 lasalsa.com
MIHALIS CHOPHOUSE Stunning and sophisticated yet comfortably casual, Mihalis Chophouse is the happy hour spot in St. Louis to see and be seen. Located on McCausland Ave. just minutes from Clayton, Mihalis is the perfect spot to wind down in style after a hard day’s work. MAPLEWOOD
lafayette Square
1603 McCausland ave. 314.333.3301 mihalischophouse.com
1415 S. 18th street 314.865.3522 sqWires.com
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
Houlihan’s
Paul Mineo’s Trattoria
With $6 made-from-scratch apps, signature summer hard teas and lemonades and premium wine flights served in an eclectic, hip-casual setting, there’s no reason to limit happy to just an hour.
Martini up your Monday’s or wine down your Wednesday’s at Paul Mineo’s Trattoria for Happy Hour on the Patio in West Port Plaza! 1/2 Price Drinks & Appetizer Specials
Restaurant + Bar
westport plaza
HOURS: Mon-Fri. 5 to 7 p.m. 333 WestPort Plaza 314-878-8180 Paulmineos.com
multiple venues
Visit houlihans.com for hours and locations.
OLD ROCK HOUSE
609 LOUNGE
The Old Rock House is the hot spot for live music nightly combined with great food and high-energy atmosphere. Join us for lunch and dinner, Tuesday through Saturday, and the best happy hour in St. Louis, Tuesday through Friday from 3pm-7pm.
Come party with us in the Delmar Loop! We feature premium Hookah selections, renowned DJ’s, daily happy hour from 5 to 8 pm, martinis and late-night food. Check out our new addition “all you can eat sushi” next door at Blue Ocean.
downtown
UNIVERSITY CITY
609 EASTGATE AVE. 314.721.9168 609U.COM
1200 S. 7th Blvd. 314.588.0505 oldrockhousestl.com
WAVE TACO Come enjoy three tacos for $5 everyday! Get the best happy hour specials in town every day from 5pm-8pm! Go online to win a free beach party! downtown
HOURS: Mon-Fri: 4pm-midnight Sat-Sun: 11am-midnight 1335 Convention Plaza 314.241.8226 wave-taco.com
black label Black Label has a can’t-miss happy hour every day, 5pm-8pm. Enjoy fantastic drink specials and delicious food from Black Label’s restaurant, House of Kabobs, which will serve over nine different style of kabobs during happy hour for just $2.
downtown
758 S. 4th St. 314.621.1929
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
Be a part of our upcoming
fine dining
special section Call us at 314.446.4056 or email us for more information at advertising@alivemag.com
scene in st. louis
alive’s 2009 Hot list party June 6> THE PLACE: The Pepper Lounge
THE PARTY: To launch our annual June Hot List “Best Of” issue, ALIVE, along with the help of Synergy ProducKevin Steincross, Mocha Latte tions, Lounge Concepts, The Raymond Experi& Craig Thomas ence, Weinhardt Party Rentals, Y98 FM and Gebbs Total Video, invited hundreds of our friends, clients and partners to celebrate St. Louis’ best dining, shopping, nightlife, entertainment and more at the most sizzling celebration of the summer. VIPs such as Angie and Nathan Habhab, Kevin Johnson, Guy Phillips and Lisa Kalz mingled over Miller Lite, Smirnoff Ice, Peroni and Pearl Vodka cocktails as DSly, Jesse Jones and Abigail Boudreaux sampled delicious appetizers from Hot List-winning restaurants Café Ventana, Mihalis Chophouse, Sub Zero Vodka Bar, B&T Pizza, Robust Wine Bar and Kitchen K. As guests arrived, they had the chance to have their photo taken in the smoking hot convertible from Mercedes-Benz of Progress Point parked outside. Once inside, Ola Hawatmeh, Kevin Steincross, Emily Clark, Jeff Small and Godfried Addae were spied celebrating with Hot List winners Igal Alon of Mavrik Fine Jewelry and Jessica Young of Jecca and dancing to beats by some of St. Louis’ top Autumn Sij & Colette Apke DJs. At the end of the night, one lucky partygoer won an incredible piece of jewelry from Mavrik. Partial proceeds from the event benefited Hailee and Breanna Rummerfield Cardinal’s Care. —Cristy Miller & Mindy McCormick Photos by ALIVE Scene Team
Daanesh Chanduwadia & Colleen O’Neill
Gary Johnson, Afrisha Kincaid & Jerry Buckner
Keith Bell & Kristin Lawton
Sonya Voronkova & Godfried Addae John Soldano, Juliet Miernicki, Jordan Strasen & Sarah Marquis
Lindsay Brooks & Dwight Carter
alivemag.com
alivemag.com
107 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
scene in st. louis
STL ROOKIE DRAFT PARTY
Erica Barkman, Rachel Malter, Jason Smith, Breah Saettele, Jason Brown, Racquel Kelly & Jennifer Stubits
May 29> THE PLACE: home Nightclub
THE PARTY: For the second year in a row, HOME Nightclub at Ameristar Casino Resort Spa and Cheresse INK brought not just the St. Louis Rams rookie class but several other professional players out for a night of team building, rest and relaxation before they hit the gridiron for good. The National Sports Agency, who helped bring back alumni #95 Clifton Ryan, #58 David Vobora (a.k.a. Mr. Irrelevant) and #60 Jason Brown while CAA (Creative Artists Agency) brought rookies #77 Jason Smith and #55 James Laurinaitis who enjoyed an evening of welcoming the players, meeting the public and relaxing before a watchful season. The five select players who hosted the event were each given Reactor watches courtesy of Breah Saettele of Saettele Jewelers and Sean Wesley, a representative of Reactor Watches Midwest. Other players in attendance included #12 Kyle Boller, #57 Chris Chamberlain, #19 Derek Stanley, #68 Richie Incognito, #96 James Hall and #67 Roy Schuening. The line of partygoers was deep into the casino as guests awaited their chance to see the players and dance the night away to tunes by celeb DJs Jay E and Arty J. —Cristy Miller
Bill Konig & Kristen Southworth Lauren Smith & Michelle Lynn
Photos by Egan O’Keefe
Carmen Battle & Sharnell Pitt
John Young & Cory Miller
Barry Morris & Gretchen Steingrubby Sara Peterson & Ashley Nickell Scott & Katrina Crawford Ashley Smith, Britney Blue & Stephanie Hoemann
108 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
Alyssa Nelson, John Parker & Denell Jones
alivemag.com
alivemag.com
109 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
scene
“B” Seen on the Boulevard June 18> THE PLACE: The Boulevard
THE PARTY: “B” Seen on the Boulevard kicked off the summer in good taste, celebrating the fourth season of this outdoor street festival. Hundreds of guests, including Andy Crouppen, DSly and Debra Bass were spotted enjoying complimentary drinks from Chandler Hill Vineyards, Michelob Ultra, FIJI Water and Luxco Spirited Brands. Attendees shopped the major promotions going on in the Boulevard’s savvy shops, danced to Groove Thang’s live performance on the Thompson Coburn LLP entertainment stage, and cruised Main Street to sample hors d’oeuvres and watch chef demos from: Maggiano’s Little Italy, Nadōz Euro.Bakery+Cafe and P.F. Chang’s China Bistro. Proceeds collected from the $10 suggested donation benefited the Mid-County Family YMCA. If you missed this one, you can “B” Seen September 17, 2009. —Cristy Miller
Joe Wyland, Ashley Lewis, Casey Catheart & Jared Hoffman
Jason Quinn, Emily Whitmore, Julia Pravnik & Kacey Quillo
Photos by ALIVE Scene Team
Patrick Thirion & Louis Quigle
Harsh Mitra, Lauren and Brian Simpson, Jessica Roberts & James Dasser
Kelly Koster & Amy Rosen
Candice Madison & Latonya Basse
Laura Matteo & Paula Wims
110 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009
April Flores, Kyle Steiner & Jessica Batz
scene in st. louis Chingy
star power marketing Launch party
Vernon Haizel & Katrina Russell
June 19> THE PLACE: Home Nightclub
THE PARTY: Star Power Marketing held a star-studded launch party featuring a DJ set by multi-platinum producer and music icon Jermaine Dupri. Joining Star Power Marketing company founders Abe Givens, Tony Davis, Jamal Clark and Jamaal Jackson at the celebration were many other celebrities and athletes including rapper Chingy, NBA players Larry Hughes and Darius Miles and music producer Jazze Pha. —Cristy Miller
Latoya Thompson & Crystal Ramey
Photos by Ryan Walsh and ALIVE Scene Team
Matt Crider & Andrea Domeier
Abe Givens, Tony Davis & Jamal Clark
Jermaine Dupri
Corey Rustemeyer & Carrie Lehmen
J.C. Nolker, Jamie Speiser, & Debbie Kilz
112 ALIVE STL AUGUST 2009