ALIVE February 2012 by Guided: Saint Louis

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PRESENTS

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Toast the city’s most talked about newsmakers + influentials while experiencing Anheuser-Busch’s newest innovation, Draftmark— true, fresh draught beer made for the comfort of your own home. Purchase tickets at alivemag.com.

Contents f e b r ua ry

60 fashion

revolution A gray area between winter and spring defines fashion's bold and powerful new season.

features The Buzz List St. Louis' most influential people, organizations and ideas that you must know about in 2012.

30 Buzz This local publishing company is making its mark on St. Louis—and helping hometown authors in the process. 32 Job Envy Meet “Mr. Mardi Gras,” the man behind the second largest Mardi Gras celebration in the country. 36 Column Valentine's Day may be sweet, but stalker films masquerading as romantic comedies are not.

style 38 S tyle Designers have a soft spot for velvet this season. 40 S tyle The “American Way” is the trendy way for men's work-inspired wear.

stl now 18

7 Things you must do this month.

42 J ewelry Candy-colored jewel pendants define jewelry's most coveted pieces.

self

20 C alendar Relive the '80s, sing the blues, travel to China and more.

46 F itness This hot new workout method is taking St. Louis by storm.

24 STL Now A locally made ginger liqueur turns out to be a “Big O-dea”—plus, brew news from beer makers, large and small.

community

26 Hot Eats Tequilas and tortillas compete for top billing at Midtown's latest hotspot. 28 Spirits Three delicious ways to drink your dessert.

American Heart Association's Passion Volunteers. 56 Social Scene Photos from the Pujols Family Foundation O' Night Divine Christmas Celebration and Stray Rescue's Hope for the Holidays Gala.

resources 88 R estaurant Guide The best places in town to eat, drink and dance.

scene 100 Sc ene in St. Louis Party pics from Nelly's Black and White Ball and the hottest NYE parties in town. 104 A rchetypes An interview with Sara Burke, dancer, owner of The City Studio Dance Center and diversity-in-the-arts activist.

48 E ngagements Three St. Louis couples share their recently ringed moments. 50 W eddings A St. Louis wedding inspired by design—and designed to inspire. 52 G et Involved Celebrate National Heart Month by joining the ranks of the

ALIVE, February 2012, Volume 9, Issue 2 (Periodical #025092) is published monthly by ALIVE Media Group, L.L.C., 2200 Gravois Ave., #201 St. Louis, MO 63104-2848. Periodicals Postage paid at St. Louis, MO, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ALIVE, 2200 Gravois Ave. #201 St. Louis, MO 63104-2848. 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.

8 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

alivemag.com

Left photo by Tuan Lee, featuring David Freese in a Boss jacket available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Plaza Frontenac; middle photo by Jennifer Silverberg; right photo by Attilio D'Agostino.

Stella Artois Presents...

President / Co-founder: Elizabeth Tucker Editor-In-Chief / Co-founder: Kelly Hamilton Fashion Director / Co-founder: Attilio D'Agostino Publisher: Damon Johnson Executive Editor: Jennifer Dulin Wiley Fashion Editor: Jill Manoff Associate Editor: Gwen Ragno Contributing Writers

Kate Allen, Katie Davis, Amy De La Hunt, Cristy Miller, Pamela Raymond, Christopher Reilly, Matt Sorrell Art

Associate Art Director: Kristin Kellogg Advertising Designer: Stephanie Terry Contributing Creative Director: David Hsia Contributing Photographers

Attilio D'Agostino, Wesley Law, Tuan Lee, Sara Swaty Roger, Jennifer Silverberg, Carmen Troesser Advertising

Senior Account Executive: Brigid Pritchard Account Executive: Gina DeGenova Account Executive: Molly Ross MARKETING

Marketing & Events Coordinator: Giana Calvello STLDailyFix.com Coordinator: Brian Donahoe business

Office Manager: Ellen Ramey Interns

David Ayres, Kristen Baker, Ettie Berneking, Latrele BoBo, Andrea Boeckmann, Jules Brown, Dana Carroll, Shane Cherry, Daniel Darkside, Nicole Delaney, Mary Delaware, Shannon Duggan, Jordan Dunahue, Kaitie Edmiston, Miles Gaudet, Christopher Gibbons, Emilie Graul, Lauren Hammond, Virginia Harold, Olmedo Herrera, Annie Hobbs, Mary Holbrook, Grace Hudson, Jorie Jacobi, Elizabeth Johnson, Jessie King, Eric Lawton, Ruth Lee, Lily Liu, David Maupin, Vidhya Nagarajan, Emma Birge-Osborne, Bill Pappas, Krista Perkins, Mary Poppell, Angelica Richards, Michele Russo, Kate Scheller, Alex Schenk, Alyssa Schier, Kevin Shee, Kim Stoner, Lily Sullivan, Samantha Taylor, Shana Tozer, Vanessa Woods ALIVE Magazine

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HAPPY HOUR START THE WEEKEND RIGHT

FRIDAY, February 17 5PM - 7PM Culinaria Wine Bar

(9th and Olive Street, Downtown) 2 hours free parking in garage with grocery store purchase (5pm or after)

$5 SUGGESTED DONATION

includes free appetizers, courtesy of Culinaria, and two complimentary drinks including one premium Belgian beer & one glass of featured wine. Must be 21+ to attend.

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GET YOUR FIX WITH

from the editor

f there's one thing that our annual Buzz List Issue reminds me of time and time again, it's that so much can happen in St. Louis in a single year. At this time last year, there was no professional recording school for local students to learn from Nelly and other big music biz names (p.69). There was no Wai Ming fashion line (p.68), no IT incubator promoting the next Google or other “big thing” (p.74)—nowhere near the number of independent craft breweries in town (p.77)— and certainly no 11th Cardinals World Series title. It's achievements like these, and the people behind them, that explain why there's not a more exciting and inspiring issue that we at ALIVE put out each year.

After meeting the 26 individuals of this year's list, I was completely blown away by the diverse set of St. Louisans whose organizations, visions and accomplishments have helped shape our city over the past year. Not only are they making St. Louis a better place to live and work, but they're also having a heck of a lot of fun doing it. From the MVP adventures of David Freese (p.66) to the entrepreneurial success of three “Boy Geniuses” (thank you, Nawgan, What-A-Ya Nuts?! and Greenvelope.com, p.78)—we couldn't have asked for a buzzier group. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting these movers and shakers of St. Louis throughout our week of photo shoots (shot by the talented Tuan Lee)—as well as interviewing them for our behind-the-scenes video (check it out at alivemag.com).

Photo by Wesley Law, shot on location at The Lawrence Group.

Since we selected the 2012 list, there's been even more buzz in the air— thanks to the innovative ideas of more St. Louisans. A self-proclaimed “regular couple” created a new ginger liqueur (p.24), a trendsetting pair of restaurateurs brought a new Mexican hotspot to Midtown (p.26), and a St. Louis native returned home to open the first fitness studio featuring The Dailey Method in the city (p.46). If you're anything like me, you'll waste no time checking them out. And, you won't delay purchasing tickets to mix and mingle with this year's Buzz Listers at the Buzz List Launch Party on Feb. 10 at Lucas Park Grille. Who knows, maybe a conversation with someone on this year's list will spark a brilliant idea that will land you on the list next year.

Jennifer dulin wiley executive editor

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on the calendar Buzz List Launch Party Friday, Feb. 10

Join ALIVE and Draftmark to celebrate the city's movers and shakers at Lucas Park Grille.

Sips in the City Friday, Feb. 17

Out in the City Wednesday, Feb. 29

Sip for a cause at this monthly happy hour series at Culinaria Downtown, this month to benefit Operation Food Search.

Don't miss the hottest LGBT happy hour in the city, hosted at the new Hamburger Mary's to benefit Food Outreach.

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contributors

BLOG POSSE Finding ways to keep you trendy, cultured and inspired.

jennifer silverberg

Tuan Lee

This month, photographer Jennifer Silverberg visited one of Midtown's newest additions, Diablitos Cantina (p.26). It was a fun shoot, with something interesting to photograph in every direction. Jennifer is a food and portrait photographer in the St. Louis area whose work has recently been published in “The New York Times,” “Parade Magazine” and “Reader's Digest UK.” See more of her work on her website, jsilverberg.com.

This is the fourth time contributing photographer Tuan Lee has been asked to shoot the Buzz List (p.66), and each year he is impressed by the level and quality of talent hailing from St. Louis. “For one week, I had the privilege of meeting the finest minds, talents and hearts in the area,” he says. “As long as ALIVE keeps inviting me to do this shoot, my answer will continually be ‘yes.’”

Matt Sorrell

Amy De La Hunt

The microbrew scene is exploding, and Matt jumped at the chance to talk with three of the hops fanatics at the forefront of the local craft beer wave for this year's Buzz List (p.77). And, of course, he'll take any opportunity to explore unique cocktails, like the three delicious dessert concoctions on p.28.

Freelance writer and editor Amy De La Hunt expanded her horizons with this month's research into hot IT companies for the 2012 Buzz List (p.74)—and even hotter salsa at Diablitos Cantina for Hot Eats (p.26). Her taste buds may never be the same.

parentpop

thegreenery Longtime green blogger Jeff McIntire-Strasburg digs into the sustainability scene—in St. Louis and beyond.

thestylelist ALIVE’s Fashion Editor Jill Manoff on shopping news and the looks she’s loving right now.

If it’s happening in STL,

it’s on ALIVEMag.com.

alivemag.com

Jennifer Silverberg photographed by Edward Crim; self-portrait by Tuan Lee; Matt Sorrell photographed by Beth Sorrell; Amy De La Hunt photographed by Katie Clancy.

Lisa Bertrand on parenting in the age of products and pop culture.

this month on

ALIVEMag.com Buzz List

ALIVE TV Behind the Scenes with David Freese

Up close and personal with the year's most influential St. Louisans. > ALIVE cover man David Freese tells all—from his adventures as the World Series MVP to his plans for next season—in this behind-the-scenes video of the February cover shoot. Dressed in several Saks Fifth Avenue looks, Freese was a true pro—making the most of photographer Tuan Lee's unorthodox method of spraying water in the shot to achieve a unique light effect for the photos. > Get the inside scoop from each of the amazing individuals who made the cut for this year's Buzz List (p.66) in this Watch it! behind-the-scenes video Scan the tag series of the Buzz List photo shoot. Hear firstwith your smarthand commentary from phone to view the city's hottest local the video. Visit filmmakers, craft brewers, http://gettag.mobi entrepreneurs and more. to get the free And, don't miss insights app and gain from ALIVE editors and access to bonus designers on the choices content. made for the feature and photo shoot. You can mingle with the Buzz Listers themselves at the ALIVE Buzz List Launch Party, presented by Draftmark, at Lucas Park Grille on Feb. 10. For tickets and more info, visit alivemag.com.

online guides shop finder

restaurant guide

gym finder

ALIVE's searchable shopping guide has all the best fashion boutiques, specialty shops and stores to satisfy every shopping addiction. [alivemag.com/fashion]

Before planning your next night out, check our searchable restaurant guide to find a place by cuisine, neighborhood or name. [alivemag.com/restaurants]

From yoga to pilates to cardio classes and more, our searchable gym guide makes getting in shape simple. [alivemag.com/health]

Find us on Facebook

16 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

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7 Things yo u m u st do this month

Catch the Buzz

Each February, ALIVE celebrates the most influential people, organizations and ideas shaping St. Louis. Join ALIVE at Lucas Park Grille on Feb. 10 for the Buzz List Launch Party, presented by Draftmark, and meet the dynamic newsmakers and community leaders that are making a difference in our city. Enjoy drinks from Anheuser-Busch and hors d'oeuvres from Lucas Park while mingling with the movers and shakers of St. Louis. For tickets and more info, visit alivemag.com.

Fatten Up

Be part of the nation's second-greatest “Fat Tuesday” celebration at the St. Louis Mardi Gras parade on Feb. 18. Pick a spot on the parade route winding from Downtown through historic Soulard and marvel at the elaborate floats and outrageous costumes of this year's theme, “Famous Threesomes.” Enjoy other festive events in the week leading up to the parade, including a 5K run, the Taste of Soulard, Beggin' Barkus Pet Parade and much more. For more info, visit mardigrasinc.com.

Don't miss Cirque du Soleil's “Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL” world tour when it visits the Scottrade Center, Feb. 7-8. The remarkably talented dancers and acrobats of Cirque du Soleil bring Jackson's message of peace and unity to life through an awe-inspiring performance set to the music that made him the King of Pop. Celebrate Jackson's legacy as a lifelong fan or a newcomer to his music, as his famous moves are interpreted in a never-before-seen way.

See one of America's most beloved musicals when it comes to The Fox, Feb. 14-26. A modern twist on Shakespeare's “Romeo and Juliet,” “West Side Story” has been adapted countless times, and has even been made into a film. Watch as toughguy Tony falls in love with Maria, whose brother is the leader of a rival gang, and you'll be humming tunes like “I Feel Pretty” and “Tonight” for days.

For tickets and more info, visit scottradecenter.com.

For tickets and more info, visit fabulousfox.com.

Beat It

Rant and Rave

Comedian Lewis Black brings his irreverent “In God We Rust” tour to Peabody Opera House on Feb. 3. Known for his lively personality and outrageous rants on social and political issues, Black has taken his act all over the world, performing more than 200 nights a year. His hilarious comedy is sure to have you doubled over laughing in no time. For tickets and more info, visit peabodyoperahouse.com.

18 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

CAMemorate

The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis hosts its Annual Gala on Feb. 4 at The Four Seasons in honor of its former Director, Paul Ha. Join the CAM Board and guests in celebrating Ha's nine years of inspirational leadership and service to the city of St. Louis and its thriving art scene. Since joining CAM in 2002, Ha has produced 92 exhibits and welcomed 223 artists to St. Louis. He is moving on to become the director of the List Visual Arts Center at MIT in Massachusetts. For tickets and more info, visit camstl.org/gala.

Be Brief

That Uppity Theatre Company partners with Vital VOICE Media to present “Briefs: A Festival of Short Lesbian and Gay Plays” at the historic La Perla Bank, Feb. 24-26. Eight different plays, selected from playwrights across the nation and directed by eight local directors, will be performed. Between shows, socialize, grab a drink and enjoy beats by local DJs. Join in this inaugural celebration of diversity while supporting local thespians and enriching yourself with new and different perspectives on life. For tickets and more info, visit uppityco.com.

alivemag.com

Photos courtesy of OSA Images, Anheuser-Busch and Lewis Black.

Feel Pretty

February 17-19 David robertson, conductor Hubbard street Dance Chicagow

Program includes works by mozart, bach, scarlatti, stravinsky and more!

“A near perfect storm of movement, music and choreography.” –Los anGeLes Times

Whitaker Guest Artist

314-534-1700 stlsymphony.org

Groups save! 314-286-4155 Photo credit: todd rosenberg

Coffee and doughnuts for Feb. 17 10:30am Coffee Concert provided by Presented in collaboration with

stl now

Free

Hot Pick

key

“Rock of Ages” at The Fox

Calendar: February LITTLE BIG TOWN Feb. 3, Lumière Place Theatre

Country music's Little Big Town boasts sweet harmonies and fan favorites like “Little White Church,” sure to keep your boots tapping all night. Tickets at ticketmaster.com (999 N. 2nd St., Downtown). ROCK OF AGES Feb. 3-5, The Fox

Relive '80s classics from Styx, Journey and Night Ranger as “Rock of Ages,” a rock love story set on the Sunset Strip, comes to town. Tickets at metrotix. com (527 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center). CRAIG FINN Feb. 10, Off Broadway

Craig Finn, lead singer of alt-rock band The Hold Steady, returns to St. Louis after a successful headlining show at LouFest 2011. Tickets at uptoeleven. com (3509 Lemp Ave., LaSalle Park). CHUCHO VALDES AND THE AFRO-CUBAN MESSENGERS Feb. 11, Sheldon Concert Hall

Hear five-time Grammy Award winner Chucho Valdes and his band, The Afro-Cuban Messengers, 20 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

bring sounds of Cuba to the Midwest. Tickets at metrotix.com (3648 Washington Blvd., Grand Center).

favorite diva, Martina McBride. Tickets at ticketmaster.com (1401 Clark Ave., Downtown).

DISNEY IN CONCERT: MAGICAL MUSIC FROM THE MOVIES Feb. 11-12, Powell Symphony Hall

SILVER ROOTS: JAPAN MEETS WORLD Feb. 18, Touhill Performing Arts Center

Bring the whole family to witness the Symphony Orchestra play tunes from Disney classics like “The Lion King” and “Mary Poppins.” Tickets at stlsymphony.org (718 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center). MOE. Feb. 16, The Pageant

Join other moe. fans (or “moe.rons”) as the jam band plays everything from its classic 1982 “Fatboy” album to newer alt-rock hits off “Sticks and Stones.” Tickets at ticketmaster.com (6161 Delmar Blvd., The Loop). AIR SUPPLY Feb. 17, Lumière Place Theatre

Australia's favorite soft-rock duo is back, singing some of its popular '70s/'80s tunes like “All Out of Love” and “Every Woman in the World.” Tickets at ticketmaster.com (999 N. 2nd St., Downtown). GEORGE STRAIT Feb. 17, Scottrade

Country superstar George Strait celebrates his 39th album, “Here For a Good Time,” alongside country's

Japanese and Western music merge for a rich performance showcasing violin, flutes, cello and more. Tickets at tickets.touill.org (1 University Blvd., Bel-Ridge). DALA Feb. 18, Edison Theatre

The Canadian pop-folk duo shares its praised vocals with St. Louis. Tickets at metrotix.com (6445 Forsyth Blvd., University City). GRIFFIN HOUSE Feb. 23, Old Rock House

Native Midwesterner and indie-folk singer-songwriter Griffin House has opened for the likes of John Mellencamp, Mat Kearney and Josh Ritter. Tickets at metrotix.com (1200 S. 7th St., LaSalle Park). ST. LOUIS BLUES FESTIVAL Feb. 25, Chaifetz Arena

The seventh annual festival features St. Louis native Shirley Brown, Sir Charles Jones, Millie Jackson, Bobby Rush and Theodis Eale. Tickets alivemag.com

Photo by Scott Suchman.

MUSIC

“BOLD, FRESH AND TRANSCENDENT.” -The New Yorker FEBRuARY 14-26

FOx THEATRE

314-534-1111 • MetroTix.com • WestSideOnTour.com

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Blurring the line between fact and fiction, a compelling survey of photography featuring over three dozen international artists. Tickets available at metrotix.com

FEBRUARY 19–MAY 13, 2012

Organized by the Saint Louis Art Museum. Financial assistance has been provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency. This project is supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts. Yeondoo Jung, Korean, born 1969; Location #4, 2006; chromogenic print; 48 x 60 1/2 inches; Courtesy Tina Kim Gallery and Kukje Gallery © Yeondoo Jung

One Fine Arts Drive, Forest Park St. Louis, MO 63110 314.721.0072 slam.org

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Free

Hot Pick

key

at thechaifetzarena.com (1 South Compton Avenue, Midtown). MUTEMATH Feb. 28, The Pageant

Post-rock band MUTEMATH made its start in New Orleans and Springfield, MO, in 2003. Now, the group draws increasingly larger and more diverse crowds across the country. Tickets at ticketmaster.com (6161 Delmar Blvd., The Loop). PERFORMING ARTS PLAYLAND Feb. 2-12, Mustard Seed Theatre

“Playland” takes a bold look at the realities of war and redemption. Tickets at brownpapertickets. com (6800 Wydown Blvd., Clayton). URINETOWN: THE MUSICAL Feb. 2-18, Tower Grove Abbey

Stray Dog Theatre presents a hilarious musical about a Gotham-esque city with a pressing water shortage. Tickets at straydogtheatre.org (2336 Tennessee Ave., Tower Grove). moe. at The Pageant

RACE Feb. 8-March 4, The Repertory Theatre

HUBBARD STREET DANCE CHICAGO Feb. 17-19, Powell Symphony Hall

Take part in one of Powell Hall's most anticipated events as this internationally esteemed troupe shows off its astounding music and dance skills. Tickets at stlsymphony.org (718 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center). SHEN YUN Feb. 18-19, Peabody Opera House

Be amazed by the stunning dance, music and art of Shen Yun as the world-famous dance troupe offers audiences a true taste of Chinese culture. Tickets at ticketmaster.com (1400 Market St., Downtown). WAKE UP, CAMERON DOBBS Feb. 24-March 4, Union Avenue Christian Church

Catch St. Louis playwright Stephen Peirick's new play about a regular guy and his ill-fated birthday dinner. Tickets at westendplayers.org (733 Union Blvd., Central West End). THE WATER COOLERS Feb. 25, Edison Theatre

This musical comedy about life, work and the topics discussed around the office will have you laughing through your work week. Tickets at metrotix.com (6445 Forsyth Blvd., University City). VISUAL ARTS MACEDONIAN Inspirations Through March 3, phd gallery

Photos from photographer David Hanlon's inspiring archeology dig in Macedonia are on display 22 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

alongside ceramics by Jim Ibur. More info at phdstl.com (2300 Cherokee St., Cherokee).

AN ORCHESTRATED VISION: THE THEATER OF CONTEMPORARY PHOTOGRAPHY Feb. 19-May 13, Saint Louis Art Museum

DANIEL FISHBACK Through March 23, St. Louis RCGA

Don't miss this photographic survey of more than 36 international artists' depictions of environment and the conflict of fact and fiction. More info at slam.org (1 Fine Arts Dr., Forest Park).

Visit Art Saint Louis' off-site exhibit as it presents Daniel Fishback, a self-taught artist known for his remarkably true-to-life scenic paintings. More info at artstlouis.org (1 Metropolitan Sq., #1300, Downtown). NEW MEDIA SERIES: SINGLE WIDE Through March 25, Saint Louis Art Museum

Teresa Hubbard and Alexander Birchler bring their short film with its looping conflict plot for some old-fashioned social commentary. More info at slam.org (1 Fine Arts Dr., Forest Park). BALÁZS KICSINY: KILLING TIME Through April 16, Kemper Art Museum

Experience this unique installation by Hungarian artist Balázs Kicsiny as he creatively represents the idea of time and its human impact. More info at kemperartmuseum.wustl.edu (1 Brookings Dr., University City). STUDIO DESIGN: CONTEMPORARY FURNITURE Feb. 10-April 8, Craft Alliance

This fun exhibition offers striking contemporary furniture designs that use abstract shapes and colors while retaining functionality. More info at craftalliance.org (501 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center).

SPECIAL EVENTS RUN FOR CHOCOLATE Feb. 12, Downtown

Grab your Valentine, strap on your running shoes and join the sweetest 5K of the season, from Laclede's Landing to Crown Candy Kitchen. Everyone gets chocolate treats on race day, and winners in each category receive scrumptious dessert dates. More info and registration at downtownstl.org (Downtown). GABRIEL IGLESIAS Feb. 17, Peabody Opera House

Comedian Gabriel Iglesias has received attention from Jay Leno, Conan O'Brien and Jimmy Kimmel for his animated, but clean, humor. Tickets at ticketmaster.com (1400 Market St., Downtown). RIVER STYX READING SERIES Feb. 20, Duff's

Enjoy good food and readings at the 37th River Styx Reading Series as Marc McKee and Alison Pelegrin share some of their literary pie. More info at riverstyx.org (392 N. Euclid Ave., Central West End).

CURATORIAL TOUR: REFLECTIONS OF THE BUDDHA Feb. 11, Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts

LINDENWOOD SPEAKER SERIES: REED TIMMER Feb. 22, Scheidegger Center for the Arts

Join the Pulitzer's senior curator and staff as they explore the historic, spiritual and artistic relevance of this unique exhibit. More info at pulitzerarts.org (3716 Washington Blvd., Grand Center).

Extreme stormchaser and meteorologist Reed Timmer shares his intense stories of flirting with disaster for the sake of science. More info at lindenwood. edu (2300 West Clay St., St. Charles). alivemag.com

Photo by Jay Blakesberg.

Pulitzer Prize winner David Mamet's newest play bluntly explores taboo conversations of race, class, sex, lies and shame. Tickets at repstl.org (130 Edgar Rd., Webster Groves).

Illustration by Velizar Simeonovski © The Field Museum

Now Open!

The exhibition was created by The Field Museum, Chicago.

Forest Park (314) 746-4599 mohistory.org To purchase tickets, visit mohistory.org or call (314) 361-9017.

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Saturday, February 11th & Sunday, February 12th Noon to 5:00 p.m. at Westport Plaza (Indoor Pavilion) Featured Wineries:

• Missouri’s finest wineries • Wines available for purchase • Entrance fee: $20

Artesian Springs Winery

(includes commemorative wine goblet & wine sampling for the day)

• Live Music by Tony Viviano

Cedar Lake Cellars Fahrmeier Family Vineyards Sainte Genevieve Winery Serenity Valley Winery St. James Winery Stone Hill Winery

Sponsored By:

Proceeds Benefit:

Vance Vineyards & Winery Westphalia Vineyards AND MORE…

To Inquire About Reserving a VIP Table contact the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society at 314.878.0780. For more information visit www.westportstl.com 1/2_H_Template.indd 1

1/8/12 2:02 PM

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Brew News The local beer scene is bustling with brewers big and small.

Kathy Kuper and Bill Foster

The Big O-dea Local ginger liqueur adds spice behind the bar and in the kitchen. By Christopher Reilly | photo by Jules brown

> When The Big O first hit the St. Louis market last June, it quickly caught the attention of bartenders, restaurateurs and shops. More are signing up and carrying the unique ginger liqueur every day—including cocktailsavvy establishments like Sanctuaria (where it's on tap), Three Sixty, The Royale and more than 50 others. This wouldn't be so extraordinary if the liqueur were produced by an established distillery or some booze baron, but The Big O is created, marketed and delivered by a couple of regular St. Louis folk, Bill Foster and Kathy Kuper. They first tried to make limoncello, but “it was terrible,” so they tried experimenting with ginger, their go-to ingredient. Foster, the chef in the family, cooks with ginger often and has even pickled his own, so it seemed a natural and interesting choice to work with in a liqueur. After they got the ginger part down, they started experimenting with various spice combinations until they arrived at the perfect recipe. Making it Big Friends and family loved the gingerbased liqueur, but it wasn't until a new acquaintance suggested they begin selling and marketing it that the pair began considering the possibility. It proved to be a daunting task. People told them it couldn't be done. “Nobody would even talk to us about producing it for us, and doing it yourself is enormously complicated and expensive,” 24 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

Foster says. “There's kettles, filters…the Feds require so much—right down to the kind of locks you have to use on the building.” But, eventually the couple struck a deal with High Plains Distillery in Atchison, KS. Now, about once a month, they drive to the distillery to make a big batch of The Big O. The Name Game Even now, every drop of The Big O is handmade from scratch. Does Foster really chop all of that ginger by hand? “Damn straight,” he says. “My hand burns from chopping so much ginger.” He and Kuper are currently talking with distributors to expand their reach beyond St. Louis, but want to expand slowly, so they can keep making it themselves for as long as possible—burning hands and all. Regarding the titillating name and tagline, “The Big O: Nothing Fake About It,” Kuper insists it's a play on the word “organic” and the fact that the product is all-natural. Sure it is. From Sip to Sup While everyone agrees The Big O is delicious on the rocks, bartenders can attest that it makes some great cocktails as well. Marla Griffin, general manager at The Royale, suggests using The Big O in Strongbow apple cider with a dash of peach bitters, or in rye whiskey with a little lemon for a spicy, warm tipple on a cold winter day. People are also discovering the liqueur's versatility as an ingredient in cooking. Foster regularly uses it on vegetables and collard greens, in “oh-my-God-you've-got-totry-it” salad dressings and even as a glaze on turkey. more online! > Check out this article on alivemag. com for a bonus recipe from Foster for Ginger and Spice Butternut Squash.

Bud Light now has a new lowcalorie cousin: Bud Light Platinum. The newest addition to the Anheuser-Busch InBev family debuted in stores nationwide on Jan. 30 with a higher alcohol by volume content and only slightly more calories than its Bud Light counterpart. Bud Light Platinum has 6 percent ABV, compared to the 4.2 percent ABV in Bud Light. The new brew also has a sweeter taste, and appears in signature cobalt blue glass bottles. A young player on the local brew scene, Perennial Ales microbrewery is now adding creative cuisine to its menu with the help of Chef John Perkins, the man behind the successful Entre Underground, Entre Events and, most recently, Entre Mobile eateries. Entre at Perennial features small-plate-inspired seasonal and locally-sourced cuisine— all of which is designed to pair well with beer. The menu changes on a fairly consistent basis, is dictated by the seasons, and ranges in price from $4 to $12. One recent offering is Perkins' version of cassoulet, starring house-cured and smoked bacon cooked sous vide-style for 10 hours and served in iron skillets. And, that's just the beginning. Billy Busch is going back to the beer business with the launch of William K. Busch Brewing Company. The new brewery is going head-to-head against the big breweries in town with its new Kräftig Lager and Kräftig Light. A point of pride for the new brand is that it uses an allmalt recipe with no fillers.

> For even more brew news, check out the craft brewers on the 2012 Buzz List, p.77. alivemag.com

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Valentine’s Day Dinner

Saturday, February 11-Tuesday, February 14 Five Course Prix Fixe Menu Reservations Recommended $120 per couple 314.241.7770 includes Champagne Toast 1234 Washington Avenue

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{ Inside Dish }

best bets Tips for a top-notch experience at Diablitos Cantina.

Don’t-Miss Dish: Tacos al Pastor Sipping Sensation: X Sandia y Menta, a mojito with watermelon, mint and Flor de Caña rum Fire Starter: Diablitos salsa from the $4-per-person salsa bar Best Place to Perch: Under the custommade Mexican star lights

Tequilas and tortillas compete for top billing at this Midtown eatery. By Amy De La Hunt | Photos by jennifer silverberg

> Complexity is a tricky thing to master. This is true whether the end product is a taco, a tequila, a new restaurant or an entire vertically integrated business model. In the case of Dr. Gurpreet Padda and Ami Grimes and their newest venture, Diablitos Cantina, it’s all of the above. Add too much complexity, and the duo risks overwhelming the average customer, who was perhaps lured into the devilishly tasty joint by the huge skull mural and the giant metal T-Rexes outside. With the restaurant’s location near Saint Louis University, customers are likely to be in search of Mexican street food, which is all the better with cheap daily specials on albondigas (meatballs) or tacos. This customer will leave happy. But, so will customers seeking more— those who know the names Padda and Grimes from 26 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

a fruit-filled empanada. My personal favorite is the classic combo of deep-fried sugary churros with a cup of hot chocolate laced with chipotle and cinnamon. The full bar is open at breakfast, too, for Bloody Marys, spiked coffees or, if wintry temps have you feeling under the weather, El Pelo del Perro—orange-infused tequila with enough Emergen-C to yield 24 nutrients and seven B vitamins. Here’s to your salud!

In the Kitchen Executive Chef Chris Lee and Chef de Cuisine Wil Pelly are Padda and Grimes’ go-to guys for translating ideas from concept to plate. Here, they keep the street food simple and authentic. House-made tortillas are just pliant enough; the pulled pork in the tamales is juicy and tender. Servers explain up front that the chips and salsa don’t come free—and it’s worth spending the extra $4 to sample from the salsa bar, starting with the basic house salsa, progressing through roasted veggie salsa to green salsa with a hint of fruit and finally on to tonguesingeing Diablitos salsa.

At the Bar Fans of the cocktails at Sanctuaria may recognize bar manager Angie Cornish. The bar staff has the challenging job of balancing popular cocktails based on infusions of cucumber, hibiscus, jalapeño, citrus and tea with a mission of education on high-end tequilas. The complexity of the many quality tequilas behind the bar (including my favorite, Casa Noble) may be lost on the college crowd—and it’s a safe bet they’re not going to be among the tequila club members paying $100 a shot to sample a Dos Lunas Grand Reserve. On the other hand, everyone can appreciate that the rail tequila is Aqui Vamos, which, at 70 percent blue agave, makes for a smoother house margarita.

This summer, many of the kitchen’s ingredients will come from a Belleville farm that Padda and Grimes bought to supply their restaurants. This means some of the now ho-hum dishes, like elotes (corn on the cob), will be fresher and thus tastier. But, as summer harvest is still far away, February calls for a breakfast that will warm you from the inside out—like pastries bursting with eggs, potatoes, sausage, chiles and cheese, or perhaps

where to go

Hot Eats: Diablitos Cantina

their other restaurants (Café Ventana and Sanctuaria), their brewery (Cathedral Square), their real estate ventures or their medical company (Padda Institute). The partners’ famous attention to detail shines through at Diablitos Cantina, from the starshaped tin lanterns on the ceiling to the tables made from repurposed Mexican road signs. The “little devils” theme repeats at many levels, from Day of the Dead skeletons to portraits of conquistadors.

Diablitos Cantina diablitoscantina.com 3761 Laclede Ave. 314.644.4430 Cocktails $6-$9, entrées $5-$10, sides $3-$4 Hours: Mon.-Fri., 7:30am-11pm; Sat.-Sun., 4-11pm

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In 1857, Adolphus Busch arrived in St. Louis with a belief: The most successful products in this growing nation would be made with an unyielding commitment to quality. He was my great-grandfather and because of his hard work, vision and success, it’s been my family’s privilege to be part of the fine art of American brewing for over 150 years. Our new Kräftig and Kräftig Light are brewed using only the four ingredients preferred in the brewing of fine German beers: water, malted barley, yeast and hops. My father, Gussie, told me brewing good beer for people who appreciate it was the key to our success. His words are the inspiration for our new brewing company and our new beer.

William K Busch

kraftig.com

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Drink Decadently Three delicious ways to drink your dessert. By Matt Sorrell | Photo by sara swaty roger

> Dessert drinks are deceptively simple. With the proliferation of sweetened spirits flooding the market in recent years, one would think that making a successful confectionary cocktail would be as simple as icing down some flavored vodka and calling it a day. But, creating a tasty liquid confection isn’t about the sugary punch—it’s about the complexity and how all of the ingredients work together to produce a taste with depth as well as decadence. Savor these three takes on drinkable desserts, courtesy of some of the best sweets destinations in town. The Tiramisu Tini This enticing drink, on the menu at Cyrano’s Cafe in Webster Groves, utilizes flavored vodka as a base—in this case, Cupcake Vanilla Vodka. Delicate layers of flavor are built on top with judicious use of Frangelico, Kahlua and Godiva White Chocolate liqueurs to replicate the complex tastes of the famous Italian dessert. General manager Melissa Smith says the alcohol levels in the various spirits help keep this creation from being overly sweet or syrupy—a recipe for success. Wicked The Fountain on Locust has been on the forefront of delectable adult libations in St. Louis since it opened in 2008. Owner Joy Grdnic has put together a menu that includes 28 different dessert drinks, along with a multitude of other ice cream and spirits pairings. Like the best classic cocktails, most of these tantalizing treats utilize just a few ingredients to achieve their desired delicious results. Wicked is the perfect example of this less-is-more philosophy. It features vodka, dark creme de cacao and Zanzibar chocolate ice cream, mixed shake-style for a creamy consistency. Simple, straightforward, delicious. The Lana Turner Blondie’s Coffee & Wine Bar has a full slate of hot and cold dessert drinks, most named after famous blondes, naturally. One of the most unique is The Lana Turner. The spirit that comes to mind for hot drinks is usually whiskey, but owner Kathleen McGowan built this creation on a foundation of Herradura Anejo Tequila. The smooth, barrel-aged tequila is mixed with Tuaca, an Italian liqueur flavored with vanilla and citrus, some hot chocolate and just a pinch of cayenne pepper and cinnamon. The drink is then topped with housemade whipped cream. The result has a little bit of bite and taste for miles. 28 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

The Tiramisu Tini at Cyrano’s Cafe

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This Heart is an Open Book

Slated for Success One year in, local publishing company Blank Slate Press is picking up steam. By Gwen Ragno | Photo by Carmen Troesser

> As many great ideas do, Blank Slate Press began with a bunch of creatives and some cocktails. Freelance writer/editor Kristina Blank Makansi and writer/marketer Jamey Stegmaier started the local publishing company with the mission to “discover, nurture, publish and promote” talented writers and voices in the greater St. Louis area. Now, one year after bringing its first novel to press, the team is putting the finishing touches on a third release. Pressing the Envelope From the very start, Blank Slate Press has been anything but conventional in its methods. Rather than searching for novels to invest in, Makansi and Stegmaier look for people, choosing writers based on the talent or potential they demonstrate. For the initial round of recruitments, they invited all the writers they knew over for cocktails, and through the informal chats that evening, they met the writers who would become their first two published novelists. Instead of traditional query letters pitching a particular work, would-be Blank Slate writers submit samples (often a short story rather than an in-progress novel) and fill out a quirky questionnaire. The application asks writers to “Tell your life story in six words,” and “Describe the ideal jacket photo of you on your first published book,” and is meant to help the publishing team get to know the author they’re considering investing their time and money in. Keeping it Simple Makansi and Stegmaier intentionally keep their operation small—with only a couple of books in the works at a time—so they can be sure to give each project personal, hands-on attention. They even launched a Kickstarter campaign this past 30 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

summer to raise money for advances for the next two writers who signed on. The books are printed in small batches from on-demand printer Lightning Source to keep overhead costs low. On the Books The first Blank Slate Press book, released in February 2011, was “The Samaritan” by Fred Venturini, a native of Southern Illinois who had previously published exclusively short stories. The novel, about an emotionally disturbed man who can regenerate his damaged limbs and organs, was awarded the Cross-Genre category in the USA Book Awards, is currently shortlisted for a Kitschie Golden Tentacle Award in the UK for best progressive, intelligent and entertaining debut fiction and was hailed by “Sci Fi Magazine” as the most powerful science fiction novel of the year. Rumor has it, there was even some interest from Hollywood. Venturini is currently working on his second novel, a drama about the four horsemen of the apocalypse. The second Blank Slate book, “Dancing With Gravity” by Kirkwood author Anene Tressler, tells the tale of a St. Louis priest facing an identity crisis. The novel (Tressler’s first) took home the Literary Fiction prize in the 2011 International Book Awards and was recognized by the “St. Louis Post-Dispatch” as a book with plenty of “local flavor.” The third release, titled “Slant of Light” and due to hit the market this spring, is the story of a Utopian society in the Missouri Ozarks at the start of the Civil War. Author Steve Wiegenstein, the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies at Columbia College in Columbia, MO, writes from a philosophical interest in Utopian societies, with richly developed and relatable characters.

Pudd’nhead Books has teamed up with other members of the Independent Bookstore Alliance to present a bookwormcentric event dubbed Literary Speed Dating. Single bookworms sign up and bring along a favorite book, then use it as a conversation starter for their five-minute “dates.” Nikki Furrer of Pudd’nhead says she sees a lot of the classics—“Pride and Prejudice,” “Infinite Jest” and Kurt Vonnegut— but not so many contemporary bestsellers. Keep an eye out on stlindiebook.com for the details. Even if you don’t leave with a new love interest, you can at least count on a few additions to your reading list.

Makansi says the original intention was to only accept writers from the Midwest, but now that things are going so well, she and Stegmaier have decided that they’re open to the idea of expanding their reach someday.

> For more info about Blank Slate Press, or to purchase one of the books, visit blankslatepress.com. alivemag.com

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Job Envy Call him “Mr. Mardi Gras”—because that’s exactly who Marc Mendolia is. As the man behind the fundraising, marketing, event logistics, community relationshipbuilding—and occasionally the wheel of a truck—for the second largest Mardi Gras celebration in the country, Mendolia not only knows how to plan a party, but how to partake in it like nobody’s business. interview by jennifer dulin wiley | Photo by attilio D’agostino

Marc “Marc-o” Mendolia, 29 Development Specialist, Mardi Gras Inc. How He Got Into the Biz. When I was a teenager, I knew I wanted to plan events, concerts, weddings, whatever. I started throwing electronic music concerts and working in hospitality. While in college, I sought out work in the event business and called on everyone who would give me a shot, paid or not. Education/Training. I attended the University of Missouri-Columbia and received a bachelor’s degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management with a minor in Business. With events, it’s really an on-the-job training course called “sink or swim.” Luckily, I’m a strong swimmer. Best Work Day Ever. Two or three days after Mardi Gras, it seems like all of our vendors and sponsors make their way into the office. Reminiscing about the parade day and hearing all of their stories is a priceless day at work. Everyone always has a story about seeing a beer-fueled breakup in the middle of the party, and there’s always the guy from out of town whose phone is dead, and he’s lost all of his friends in the mix. Why His Job Rocks. I get to meet all kinds of musicians and sometimes stand on stage while they play, and I often get to share these experiences and others with my best friends. The event planning business in St. Louis is comprised of a small circle of incredible people, and I’m fortunate enough to simultaneously work and party with them on most weekends. Typical Day. On event days, you work harder than you ever thought possible at a pace that others would find stressful in conditions that are less than favorable—like having to break down an event in the snow or pouring rain. 32 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

Let’s just say, on more than one occasion, I’ve ended up in a dumpster for one reason or another. It’s a totally unpredictable profession, but it’s also a lot of fun. Proudest Moment. During the Grand Parade, I walk up and down the route watching the floats and the hundreds of thousands who came to the party. I stand back, smile and say, “We did it again.” Best Job Perk. Being in the festival business gets you lots of contacts with event partners

for some of the best events the city has to offer. It’s safe to say that I haven’t paid for an event ticket in a while. My family and I get spoiled by the incredible events that we get to attend when I’m not working them. Favorite Thing About Mardi Gras. The energy that the parade crews and festival revelers put into the holiday is really incredible. Some people love Halloween, others Saint Patrick’s Day. But, the most outrageous choose Mardi Gras as their holiday of choice. They are a special bunch of people. alivemag.com

… have never talked to their doctor about urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, uterine fiborids, endometriosis, abnormal uterine bleeding, sexual dysfunction or human papillomavirus (HPV). 1/4_Template.indd 1

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Don’t be one of them. St. Luke’s Hospital offers a wide range of evaluation and treatment options for pelvic conditions, including Total Control, a fitness and educational pelvic health program. Learn more at stlukes-stl.com. To connect with a pelvic health navigator, call 314-205-6654.

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Destination: Clayton GRAB A MAP AND EXPLORE THE TOP HOTSPOTS IN CLAYTON.

BLUE MOON ACTIVEWEAR Blue Moon Activewear has St. Louis' most extensive activewear choices and the latest styles and trends in workout wear, casual clothing and accessories. Whether you're a ﬁtness veteran or just looking for comfortable weekend clothing, Blue Moon has chic, mindful apparel that can take you through every part of your day. Top brands include lucy, Beyond Yoga, Rese Pilates, ALO, Ion-Actif and SkirtSports.

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Located in the heart of Clayton for 45 years, World News offers an extensive selection of national and local media. While other news outlets and stores treat magazines, newspapers, and books like sidelines, World News offers thousands of individualized media to satisfy a large variety of interests, from the New York Times to ALIVE Magazine to foreign language publications. Make it your one-stop-shop for newspapers, magazines, books, racing forms, convenience items and more.

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CITY COFFEEHOUSE AND CREPERIE

Founded in 1926, Jon’s Pipe Shop is one of the best-stocked tobacco merchants in the Midwest. The landmark shop has been carrying a full line of cigars, tobaccos, pipes and accessories for 70+ years, and features the full line of Davidoff, Dunhill (cigars and smoker’s accessories), as well as ST. Dupont lighters and writing instruments. Also coming soon, customers will be able to enjoy more convenient online shopping with a revamped website, which currently includes all items available for purchase organized by brand.

42 N. Central Ave 314.721.1480 jonspipeshop.com

St. Louis' Original French Crêperie! City Coffee House & Crêperie serves over forty different traditional crêpes, savory or sweet, and are made with white or 100% organic gluten-free buckwheat ﬂour. Other treats available are pastries, quiches, sandwiches, soups, salads, rich coffees, espressos, teas and smoothies. Party Trays! Box Lunches! 15% Discount with Student I.D. (Mon.-Thurs. only) Mon-Fri 6:30am – 4:00pm Sat-Sun 7:00am – 3:00pm (kitchen closes 30mins. earlier)

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Destination: Clayton LUSSO Lusso is a hip little lifestyle boutique on Carondelet Plaza. They carry a wide array of products from the Old World Match pewter line to the beautiful clothing designers of Nanette Lepore. The jewelry case alone is enough reason to stop in, featuring items from designers across the globe—from Lucite by Alexis Bittar to one-of-a-kind semi-precious stone creations by Saﬁa. You'll love the atmosphere, showcasing home fragrances by Tocca and beautiful textiles by Jonathan Adler. And don't forget, Lusso tops it all off with their fabulous signature gift wrap.

165 Carondelet Plz. 314.725.7205 lussohome.com

PETUNIA Petunia Children's Boutique—gourmet clothing for sweet kids! We manufacture our own nationally recognized clothing brand here in the Midwest. In addition to Sweet Petunia clothing (ages newborn to size 8), we offer custom made name t-shirts, canvas tote bags, pillows, blankets, and aprons. Turnaround time is 24-48 hours on all of our custom products. You will also ﬁnd a vast selection of bows, hats, ﬂower clips, and headbands in our hair candy section. For boys, we offer newborn to size 4t in clothing items and custom t-shirts sizes newborn to adult. Stop by Petunia today!

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INFINITY LASER HAIR REMOVAL Since 1999, we have been serving men and women of Saint Louis for all their hair removal needs. We are pleased to now offer pain-free laser hair removal treatments with our new LightSheer High-speed Duet laser which is FDA approved for Permanent Hair Reduction. Imagine no razor stubble or embarrassing hair again, just inﬁnitely smooth. Until the end of March, mention this ad for $100 off your lower legs or back and shoulders treatment. *Call for details.

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Romance is in the Air Or, are these films really all just a bunch of stalker movies? By Pamela Raymond | illustration by sarah quatrano

> Valentine’s Day. A day of candy boxes, Hallmark cards and lingerie. Couples everywhere are rekindling their love or trying to keep it together for the sake of roses, a fancy dinner and a late-night showing of the romantic-film-of-the-moment. But, the barrage of romance movies clogging the local multiplex on Cupid’s day of reckoning is not as saccharine-sweet as you think. So, beware if you and your sweetie decide to hit the theater on this magical day. I guess it goes without saying that my least favorite films are romantic comedies. Why? Because rom-coms, or romance dramas, tend to put crazy ideas in people’s heads about what is realistic romantic behavior and what is just plain silly. If you don’t think it’s true, please explain “Twilight” to me. Vampires and werewolves are not real, and quite frankly, if they were, you should be really scared. Yet, there are teenage girls losing their minds and grown women mentally sexing up barely-legal Edward and Jacob— it’s all too much! This got me thinking about certain movies that are labeled “romantic”—but in my opinion, are not romantic at all. I’m talking about movies that present male characters doing “romantic” things that, in the real world, would get them handcuffed and slapped with a restraining order. I’m talking about romantic movies that are thinly veiled stalker films. This could be a whole new genre. Nora Ephron and Nicholas Sparks, take notes. “Say Anything” starring John Cusack and Ione Skye (1989) The worst offender of stalker-masquerading-as-romance, “Say Anything,” follows the budding romance of an average student named Lloyd Dobler and his infatuation with valedictorian Diane Court after they graduate high school. By infatuation, I mean terrifying obsession. This movie drifts into stalker territory with the infamous boom box scene. If someone were standing outside your window blaring Peter Gabriel in the wee hours of the morning, wouldn’t you frantically be dialing 911 and thinking of the nearest hard object you could use to bludgeon him with? That’s not the only stalker moment in the film. Think back to when Lloyd lets Diane’s father in on his grand plan—telling him that his main goal in life is to be Diane’s boyfriend. Seriously? When anyone tells you their biggest career move is to be your boyfriend, start rethinking the relationship. This means that a) this guy needs an excuse for not having gainful employment and/or b) he is slowly reaching for a chloroform-soaked rag, you will soon be rendered unconscious, and your body found two months later. “The Graduate” starring Dustin Hoffman, Katherine Ross and Anne Bancroft (1967) Ben Braddock has an affair with Mrs. Robinson. He falls in love with Mrs. 36 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

Robinson’s daughter, Elaine, after one date. Ben then moves to Berkeley to secretly follow Elaine around campus after she breaks it off with him because she finds out about the hard-core affair with her mother. It’s a classic storyline if you are a stalker. Who falls in love after one date, packs up and moves to that person’s city, then follows them around secretly? Oh, I know, a stalker. Get where I’m going with this? Coo, coo, ca-choo, Mrs. Robinson…the stench of Ben’s craziness is ripe! “Love Stalker…An Unromantic Comedy” starring Matt Glasson and Rachel Chapman (2011) This indie film shot in St. Louis (and first aired at the St. Louis International Film Festival) is about a sex and relationship blogger, Stephanie, who dates a loser, Pete, then breaks up with him after finding his little red book of sexscapades. Said loser is heartbroken, has a bit of a nervous breakdown and proceeds to stalk the heck out of her. The twist in the film is this: Maybe this was the intended behavior Stephanie was hoping to provoke all along. Pete realizes a little too late that all of his misguided and absurd antics were chronicled in Stephanie’s blog. Way to go, sister! Flip that script! Finally, a romantic stalker film that makes sense! Every girl wants a little romance in her relationship. Cool. I can dig it. But, obsessive behavior and unhealthy boundaries aren’t the basis of a reallife relationship. Do yourself a favor and keep an eye out for any suspicious boom boxes, okay? XXRayVision Never one to believe that sleep is completely necessary, Pamela Raymond keeps a hectic social schedule, so she sees a lot of relationship dilemmas. A native of New Orleans, Pamela infuses a mix of Southern sass and Yankee tough love in all of her columns. Pamela also writes a blog for “Girls Guide To The Galaxy” and uses her MBA from Maryville University to run her own PR and events firm, The Raymond Experience. You can follow her on Twitter @RayExperience.

alivemag.com

same and next day appointments available

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style

Designers have a soft spot for velvet this season. By Jill Manoff | Photos by Carmen Troesser > Sure, raw denim, studded leather and spiked accessories are cool, but you’ve always been a softy. You appreciate the cozy things in life, which is why you can rightly claim this as “your” season. Thanks to a number of new lush looks—including Proenza Schouler’s zigzagged frocks, Ralph Lauren’s rich, red-carpet-ready gowns and Roberto Cavalli’s filigree-embroidered maxis—velvet, especially in jewel tones, is having a moment. So, not only is it “socially acceptable” to forgo the hard and edgy to drape yourself in the “nap of luxury”—it’s currently being encouraged by fashion’s most influential set. It seems George Costanza was onto something.

38 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

[clockwise from top left] The Exquisite Corpse by Michael Drummond dress available at thexquisitecorpse.com and ziezo, The Loop, 314.725.9602. Free People Intimates bralette available at ziezo, The Loop, 314.725.9602. Awake Couture tunic available at Meka, Chesterfield, 636.536.6300. J Brand pants available at Blush, Kirkwood, 314.965.4411. Robbi & Nikki skirt available at Ivy Hill, Central West End, 314.367.7004. alivemag.com

Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

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One-Stop Shop for Handmade Jewerly, Luxury Boots, Scarves, and Accessories Milan Bracelet $35

THE O LIST

featuring Scarf $48 Horse Bit Necklace $65

Dav Winter Boots $130

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“Like” us on Facebook and get a 10% off code for in-store use! www.facebook.com/BrandoBoutique 1164 Town & Country Crossing Drive Chesterfield, MO 63017 Mon - Sat 10am-5pm Sunday Noon-4pm Phone: 636-227-CODI

9218 Clayton Road Ladue, MO63124 Mon - Sat 10am-5pm Closed Sunday Phone: 314-692-CODI

107 1/2 e. argonne dr., kirkwood, mo 63122 314.984.9114 w w w. b r a n d o b o u t i q u e . c o m

style

The American Way Traditional workwear resurges this season, proving they actually do “make ‘em like they used to.” By Jill Manoff | Photos by Carmen Troesser > Call it “metro” backlash. For this season, both long-established stateside labels and modern menswear designers went full-on rugged, referencing utilitarian fare once reserved for the blue-collar, onthe-clock set. Those prone to style nostalgia will be quick to scoop up their many new takes on workwear staples—including raw denim in classic Dockers dimensions, trucker jackets and sturdy lace-up boots. Altogether, the trend reads as an ode to the type of durable, function-driven fashion established by Levi’s and synonymous with Carhartt—brands anyone dubbed “metro” could rightly wear, though they would definitely clash with the accompanying man bag.

U Red Wing boots available at Devil City, The Loop, 314.863.8080.

W AG Adriano Goldschmied corduroy pants available at AG Adriano Goldschmied, Central West End, 314.361.6161. Q woolrich coat available at Devil City, The Loop, 314.863.8080.

W Coal Headwear hat available at 10denza, Central West End, 314.361.1010.

R Rockmount Ranch Wear plaid shirt available at Devil City, The Loop, 314.863.8080.

40 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

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HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY

LOVE is in the HAIR Purchase a $50 gift certificate and receive an additional $10 gift certificate. Purchase a $100 gift certificate and receive an additional $25 gift certificate.

7529 Forsyth Blvd. Clayton, MO 63105 BlueElementSalon.com 314.725.1200

blue element salon Check out Blue Element Salon on Facebook!

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style

Dangle the Carat Candy-colored jewel pendants define jewelry’s most coveted pieces. By Jill Manoff | photos by carmen troesser > Who would have guessed that dramatic “rings around the collar” would wind up among the season’s essential accessories? Defined by bold stones on delicate chains, designers’ newest, most talked about incarnations of fine necklaces reference the shape of your choice finger rings—but turned upside down. Change it up! Opt to give your glitzy, weighed-down hands a rest, and stick your neck out in an attention-grabbing amethyst, emerald or aquamarine drop on a silver or gold strand. Buy it now, and wear it through spring. The brightly colored jewel will complement everything in your warm-weather wardrobe—that is, except for any piece with a makeup-tarnished neckline. [left to right] Necklace and pendant available at Mavrik Fine Jewelry, Kirkwood, 314.909.6818. Necklace and pendant available at Albarré Jewelry, Ladue, 314.997.1707. Necklace and pendant available at Summit Jewelers, Webster Groves, 314.962.1400. Necklace and pendant available at Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers, Clayton, 314.863.8820. Necklace and pendant available at Mavrik Fine Jewelry. final two Necklaces and pendants available at Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers.

42 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

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DIAMONDS

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International diamond company Mavrik Jewelry can help you get the best price for your diamond. With facilities around the world, we have a worldwide demand for diamonds of every shape and size.

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valentine’s day gift guide This Valentine’s Day, show her how much you care with a gift that’s as unique as she is.

1) MACS Designs

2) Kakao Chocolate

The Cosabella Laced Thong comes in two fabulous styles: The Cutie and The Bootie and a variety of colors! Personalize these ultrasexy lace thongs with a name, initials, school, sorority, wedding date, new married name and more. Follow us on Facebook.

The all-natural sea salt caramels from Kakao Chocolate are to-kill-for, but you can buy them for your sweetheart in this gorgeous stair-step display box, and no one needs to get hurt.

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44 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

7272 Manchester 314.645.4446 kakaochocolate.com

3) Fitchix Fitness Studio

4) Cha Snag these Sam Edelmen wedges in nude with rose gold hardware! Perfect to wear with any Valentine’s Day dress or any Spring outﬁt!

Get her the gift of sexy for Valentine’s Day with a gift certificate. Join our Sexy Valentine’s Party and learn a chair dance he’s sure to LOVE. Reserve now 9666 Clayton Rd. 314.993.8080 for a free gift while shop-cha.com supplies last. 12295 Olive Blvd. 314.878.2449 7642 Forsyth Blvd 314.863.4800 fitchixfitnessstudio.com

ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

5) Center for Mind, Body, & Spirit The Heart of Gold Cuff is the perfect Valentine’s Day gift. Handcrafted in the USA with recycled lead-free pewter, the inside is engraved with “Heart of Gold”—the ultimate compliment.

6) Meka Boutique This Wildfox Sparkle Heart Top is a must for Valentine’s Day! Add a little glitter to your night out! Stop by Meka Boutique to see more colors! Follow us on Facebook!

1634 Clarkson Rd. 636.536.6300 7649 Delmar Blvd. mekaboutique.com 314.725.6767 centerformindbodyspirit.com

alivemag.com

Get HER the gift of SEXY for VALENTINE’S DAY with a gift certiﬁcate. HOOP FIT Jennifer’s Hula Hooping class in an exciting and fun high energy cardio workout! Learn to swivel your hips and start toning up your tummy. Sexy dance moves will give you the body of a dancer, and combining strength exercises and circuit training will help melt off those unwanted pounds!

Sexy Valentines Party Join us for our Sexy Valentines Party and learn a chair dance he’s sure to LOVE: • Creve Coeur: Friday, February 10, 6:30-8:30pm • Clayton: Saturday, February 11, 12:30-2:30pm Reserve now and get a FREE GIFT while supplies last!

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self

A Method for Success Transform your body with this new low-impact, high-results workout. By Cristy Miller | Photo by annie hobbs

> A full-body workout that burns serious calories without having to kill yourself...sounds too good to be true, right? Wrong. Not when you take one of the classes at The Dailey Method, a new St. Louis fitness studio that features the celeb-loved, silhouette-slimming Dailey Method workout. Located in the Village at Schneithorst in Ladue, the studio was launched by St. Louisan Sarah Tourville. A fitness buff and fan of pilates and yoga, Tourville was inspired to open her own studio after training under The Dailey Method founder, Jill Dailey McIntosh. The workout combines a ballet barre with core conditioning, strengthening and lengthening exercises. The concept has been around since the early ‘90s, but the trend-worthy routine has been gaining popularity as a time-effective, body-changing workout in more recent years. The Moves It’s easy to see why Tourville loves this workout style—she and her team are not only knowledgeable instructors, but they also have toned and lean physiques that could inspire anyone. The class focuses on a variety of difficult stretches, but you don’t have to be as flexible as a ballerina to get the most out of this workout. Active gym-goers like me are still challenged by the class—and, as I learned the next day, I definitely used certain muscles that I don’t work hard or often enough. The key to this workout is its focus on the core—your calorie-burning center that will improve overall posture and body strength. During the class, every muscle group is engaged through controlled, nonimpact movements. The class also isolates individual muscles like the triceps, biceps and chest using small weights. Your quads get appropriate attention at the barre, and your abdominals and core are targeted through planks and other “neutral spine” movements. After each exercise, a series of stretches is performed to sculpt lean muscles, followed by flexibility work to balance out the body. The class closes with a few minutes of quiet meditation to leave you feeling strong, refreshed and already anxious to return. As a fitness-minded mother of two, Tourville understands the needs of on-the-go moms—which is why she provides staffed childcare for morning and afternoon classes. The facility also has fully-equipped showers for those squeezing in a class before work or during lunch. 46 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

The Dailey Method

{ Take 5 } Apprehensive about trying a totally new workout? You won’t be, once you’ve read our Top 5 list on the benefits of trying The Dailey Method. 1 You barely break a sweat. A stellar full-body workout is guaranteed. But, because it’s not a direct aerobic workout, you won’t be drenched when the hour is over. It’s ideal for the on-the-go mom or busy young professional, and it’s a great workout to sneak in during your lunch hour. 2 All the right moves. Many people shy away from group fitness classes because they feel like they won’t be able to keep up or perform the exercises correctly. But, at The Dailey Method, the classes are more intimate, and instructors are focused on helping you perform movements, so you’ll feel confident as you improve with each class. 3 Bring out your inner black swan. Let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to look and feel as

graceful, poised and lean as Natalie Portman in “Black Swan”? The Dailey Method helps achieve that toned, lean look, and you’ll feel fit and sexy performing similar stretches. 4 Time flies. Ever take a fitness class and find yourself watching the clock? That’s because you’re not enjoying your workout. The Dailey Method, while challenging, is also fun with movements, stretching and balance work that keep your interest—and heart rate—up. 5 It’s rehab-friendly. If you’ve ever experienced a minor injury that keeps you from your fitness routine, then you know it’s hard not being able to stay in shape during recovery. The Dailey Method’s movements are low-impact and safe for rehabilitation.

alivemag.com

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weddings

Recently Ringed Three St. Louis couples share their engagement stories.

Molly Ross, 31 & Mike Fontana, 32

How We Met Jacob and I met online in September 2010. Who would have thought you could find love on a dating website like Zoosk? I thought Jacob was cute, so I made the first move by e-mailing him, and he wrote me back within 24 hours! We met at 54th Street Grill and Bar for our first date. I was beginning to think that Jacob was mute because he hardly talked the entire time—but as it turns out, I just do not know when to stop talking! He finally shut me up with a big kiss at the end of our date, and we have been together ever since.

How we met Mike and I met in college at Mizzou, where we shared mutual friends. We pulled all-nighters together preparing for a Chemistry exam, attended my sorority formal in a blizzard-like snow storm and skipped class to play disk golf on a gorgeous day. After we graduated, we stayed in the same circle of friends, and many nights of flirting at the Cheshire Inn turned into a relationship.

The Proposal On August 10, 2011, Jacob and I were sitting at my parents’ house joking that Jacob had found a Cracker-Jack-box ring for me on eBay. Jacob and I had just moved into our first house together, and later in the evening, my mother and I went out shopping for curtains. When I returned to the new house, I heard music playing and spotted a package in the middle of the living room. Inside, I found a jewelry box playing “Stand By Me.” When I picked it up, I noticed the lyrics of our song, “Honey Bee” by Blake Shelton, engraved on the bottom along with what would be my new initials. I assumed this was a simple moving-in-together gift—not once did it cross my mind that he was proposing! Then, I opened the bottom drawer of the jewelry box and found the ring. It had four diamonds on each side of the band, which belonged to his grandmother, and a roundcut diamond in the middle. I was in complete shock! He asked me, “You want to get married, Audrey?” and without a question in my mind, I said “yes!” The Big Day September 29, 2012 at Far Oaks Golf Club in Caseyville, IL.

The Proposal Every year, we take a trip to Colorado to ski and visit friends and family. We always talked about staying at The Broadmoor, and I thought something was up this past year when Mike suggested we stay there. I’ve always had the unfortunate ability to over-think a situation and ruin a good surprise, and this was no exception. I convinced myself that Mike would propose there and prepared myself accordingly. We spent a late night out with friends, and the next morning was not easy—everyone overslept, and we had to drive our friends to Denver before leaving (not to mention, Mike had to patch a hole I had knocked in the wall after sliding down the staircase banister). I thought the night may have derailed the proposal, but all was forgotten when we pulled up to The Broadmoor. At dinner, over our nevermore-delicious ice waters, Mike said, “You know, we’ve been through a lot together…” and I knew it was happening! Although I had “planned” for the proposal, I could have never been prepared for the excitement and happiness that I felt at that moment—nor could I agree more with his opening statement. The Big Day June 2, 2012 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Colorado Springs, CO, reception at The Broadmoor.

Tabitha Meyer, 28 & Michael Tomko, 28 How we met Tabitha and I met each other on Twitter last January. At 3am one night, neither of us could sleep. Lying awake in our respective homes, tweeting about said insomnia, we found our way into a conversation about how Tabitha wasn’t aware of things to do in the city. After a series of messages and a little gumption on my part, we met that night at Off Broadway for what would be our first date. Neither of us remembers any details from the show because we were completely engrossed in a five-hour-long conversation. That night, I met my best friend and the love of my life. The Proposal Since the very beginning, I have known that Tabitha was the one for me, and it didn’t take long to decide that I wanted to marry her. In June, I went to David Kodner Personal Jeweler in Clayton to get a ring made. I knew she would prefer a proposal that was special and unique, but also simple and private. So, on the morning of September 18, we went back to Off Broadway under the guise of working on a video project about why we love St. Louis. While setting up the camera to interview owner Steve Pohlman, he received an “important” phone call and had to leave the room. Little did Tabitha know, the call was actually from my friend Amy, and this was my cue to step into the frame and pop the question. In literally the same spot where we first met, I got down on one knee and asked her to be my wife. It couldn’t have been more perfect, and I was lucky enough to capture it all on tape! The Big Day September 15, 2012 at Campbell House Museum, reception at Off Broadway.

> Recently ringed? Email your story to jennifer@alivemag.com, and your engagement moment could be featured in ALIVE!

48 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

alivemag.com

Edited by Melissa Grubbs; photos courtesy of the couples; photo of Tabitha Meyer & Michael Tomko by Bryan Sutter.

Audrey Glueck, 23 & Jacob Knigge, 27

weddings

Joy and Cake A St. Louis wedding inspired by design—and designed to inspire. By Kate Allen | Photos by jon koch

The C ou

ple Kate Assoc Huether, 28 iat , for Vo e Line Builde gue Fo r o twear Den Directo i Allen, 35, Spons r of Corpora orship te fo Louis B r the St. lues > If there was one thing Deni Allen and Kate Huether could agree upon when it came to wedding plans, it was that they wanted it to be the party of a lifetime. This creative St. Louis couple showcased more than just their love during their unforgettable nuptials. Their talents also took center stage to make the big day a success in more ways than one. Heading south for the winter is a longstanding tradition for Kate and Deni, but little did Kate know when preparing for their fifth annual escape to Mexico that Deni was planning a lot more than a week-long trip. The couple headed to the quiet surfing community of Sayulita. It was there, at sunset, that Deni dropped to one knee and asked Kate to join him for a lifetime of moments like these. The celebration that followed was one for the record books, and their September nuptials would be no different. Aisle Style Wearing Monique Lhuillier and a noticeable glow, Kate made her way down the Shrine of St. Joseph’s immaculate aisle with both of her parents, a tradition inspired by their own wedding day. She clutched a stunning bouquet, accented with a sin50 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

gle white lace rose made from her grandmother’s wedding gown. She placed one Louboutin in front of the other, and a smile spread across her face as she walked toward her best friend. They said their “I Do’s,” hopped into the back of Deni’s 1971 Oldsmobile Delta Royale and rode off into the sunset. Presentation Perfect Following Kate and Deni’s traditional Catholic ceremony, their 235 guests made their way to Lumen Private Event Space, where they were greeted with cocktails and passed appetizers served on skewers made by the bride herself. Following a 10-minute impromptu dance party in celebration of the couple, guests returned to their seats, and dinner was served. As they enjoyed a delicious three-course dinner, the maid of honor and best man delivered heartfelt toasts, complete with comic relief in the form of a PowerPoint presentation. Musicality Kate and Deni’s big day was in no way short on excitement. During the cocktail hour, guests were greeted by a six-piece mariachi band, a gift from the bride to her groom in memory of their Mexican engagement. Later in the evening, the dance floor served as a constant source of excitement. Kate asked that both Deni and her father surprise her with their first dance song selections. The

Melvin Turnage Band brought Al Green to life as the couple danced to the sounds of “Let’s Stay Together,” and Mr. Huether payed homage to his daughter with Stevie Wonder’s “Isn’t She Lovely.” But, perhaps the greatest surprise of the night came from the groom and his men when the sound of Beyonce’s “Single Ladies” filled Lumen, and the guys took the floor to perform a choreographed number—a tribute to Kate and Deni’s seemingly never-ending courtship. Bromance Kate wasn’t the only one touting her creativity when it came to DIY projects for the big day. While she was busy creating a stunning bridal stationery suite, inspired by Kate Spade’s Twirl perfume packaging, Deni was representing for the men on the guest list. First on his list was an openair photo area to capture guests’ excitement for the evening, complete with props like sunglasses, hats, and—let’s not forget—a cardboard Kate and Deni. But, it was Deni’s “Man Cave” that really left his mark on the evening. Hosted by the popular entertainer, “The Most Interesting Man in the World,” the cigar lounge featured wood-paneled walls, furniture and a moose head mounted front and center. alivemag.com

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community

Get Involved: From the Heart Jasmine Huda knows the importance of a healthy heart, and she’s on a mission to spread the word. By Ettie Berneking | Photo by Lily Liu

> It can be easy to forget about our hearts. The vital organ that powers our very existence is often abused, pushed aside and forgotten, especially amongst the surge of other causes grappling for our attention: breast cancer, multiple sclerosis, HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer’s…the list goes on. But, during February—National Heart Month— the American Heart Association steps up to remind us just how important heart health is. The AHA can’t do it alone, so they have some help—which is where the Passion Volunteers come in. These ready-to-serve volunteers work within their communities to help spread the association’s message and educate others about keeping their hearts healthy. Jasmine Huda, an anchor on KMOV, is a Passion Volunteer for the St. Louis area. She’s a relatively new member to the heart campaign—having joined in 2010—but her efforts within the organization have already made her an invaluable part of the team, says Madelyn Alexander, communications director for the St. Louis chapter of the AHA. At 33 years old, Huda is already familiar with the enormous impact heart disease can have. Both of her parents have diabetes, and there is a long history of heart disease in the family, so Huda has always been aware of the dangers of not taking care of her heart. But, she says, she didn’t really “get it” until a few years ago, when she took her mother in for a routine checkup, and the doctors found a blockage requiring two coronary artery stents. Huda’s mother was only 65 at the time. “What was supposed to be a routine doctor visit ended up being a pretty eye-opening experience for the whole family,” Huda explains. So, with the support of her team at KMOV, Huda decided to help spread the message about heart health to women across St. Louis by joining the ranks of volunteers with the AHA. Whether through PSAs or events like the celebrity bartender night she participated in last August, she enjoys being able to use her role at KMOV to get the message out. At the celebrity bartender night, Huda was pleased to meet people who weren’t even aware the event was taking place, in addition to those who came out in support of the campaign. “I’d like to think they left with a little more information [about heart disease] than when they arrived,” she says. 52 ALIVE STL FEBRUARY 2012

American Heart Association Passion Volunteer, Jasmine Huda

Being informed is a key tool to heart health, Huda emphasizes. As the No. 1 killer of American women, heart disease claims more lives each year than cancer—and it is the leading cause of death in the world, according to the North Shore Heart Research Foundation. The Center for Disease Control estimated 785,000 Americans had a coronary event in 2010 alone.

on Feb. 3, which she’ll be emceeing. The luncheon, which began in 2004, has become the leading initiative in raising awareness of heart disease in women and empowering them to take action against its devastating risks. Women from around the St. Louis area turn out in red to hear inspiring survival stories, share their own stories and wisdom and learn about heart health.

As a Passion Volunteer, Huda stresses to women that the key to staying healthy is being proactive. Be proactive about getting educated on heart health, be proactive in making doctor’s appointments, and be proactive in figuring out what you, personally, need to do to maintain your heart’s health.

Passion Volunteers help create and assist with other Go Red For Women awareness opportunities throughout the year as well, with events like Go Red Connect , Wear Red Day and Fresh 102.5’s Wine & Chocolate event.

This February, Jasmine hopes to help educate women around St. Louis about the risks of heart disease at the 2012 Go Red for Women luncheon

> To become a Passion Volunteer, contact Rachelle Bartnick, Community Health Director, at 314.692.5674. alivemag.com

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LOFT LIVING

A look at the best places to live Downtown!

ParkPaciﬁc Apartments

If you’re looking for the perfect Downtown apartment that combines style, unabashed luxury and convenience, ParkPacific Apartments is the only choice. Once the headquarters for the Missouri Pacific Railroad, ParkPacific boasts a refurbished brick Art Deco exterior and a delightfully close proximity to all your favorite Downtown spots. Every detail of these apartments has been thoroughly planned out and executed for the comfort and enjoyment of it residents. With panoramic views of Downtown St. Louis and a plentitude of modern amenities, ParkPacific is the ultimate in luxury and style. The 230 brand new apartments are outfitted with granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances and high-efficiency stackable washers and dryers, making the space not only comfortable, but also functional. The building also contains a 3,000 square-foot

1226 OLIVE ST. DOWNTOWN 314.242.1440 LIVEPARKPACIFIC.COM

gym facility with 24-hour access, lockers and a yoga room. Other building amenities include a movie theater room, coffee bar lounge, recycling center, 24-hour doorman and key card access. A parking garage adjacent to the building is available for residents and the rooftop deck, equipped with grills and a wading pool, is the perfect spot to host a party or join other residents for happy hours and holiday parties hosted by ParkPacific. Conveniently located close to Market Street, residents are only minutes from some of St. Louis’ best attractions, like the Scottrade Center, Busch Stadium, Peabody Opera House, the Arch Riverfront and much more. Several floor plans and prices are available, so you can customize and select the apartment that is the best fit for you.

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Ballpark Lofts

That perfect Downtown loft you’ve been dreaming of is now a reality at Ballpark Lofts, located at the corner of 10th and Spruce Street. Here, old St. Louis meets the new St. Louisan. Keeping faithful to the style of iconic St. Louis architecture, these units have been remodeled to preserve plenty of the exposed red brick that gives St. Louis its unique old-town vibe. Expansive arched windows let natural light pour in, and 14-foot timbered ceilings give a touch of rustic appeal. Adding to the stylish and modern feel of each unit are private balconies offering a terrific view of Downtown St. Louis. Each unit has been updated and equipped with all the best amenities, including modern kitchens and lighting fixtures, granite countertops, vessel sinks and Bosch washers and dryers. With 68 units in all, each loft has a unique floor plan, which avoids the cookie-cutter feel that many modern apartment complexes have. Large walk-in closets and private parking offer a sense of home and convenience that makes settling into your new Ballpark loft an easy transition. Step outside the building, and nearly all Downtown attractions are within walking distance. The headache of dealing with traffic and parking to catch a Cardinals game will be ancient history—Busch Stadium is less than two blocks from home at Ballpark Lofts. Residents experience baseball season first-hand—just look out your window during a home game to see a sea of red and hear the crowd’s cheers. On the Cardinals’ opening day, the building joins together on the rooftop patio for a barbecue. At Ballpark Lofts, you can be sure your place will be the favorite spot besides Busch for friends to gather to watch the game.

1004 SPRUCE ST. DOWNTOWN 314.266.2525 STLBALLPARKLOFTS.COM AMENITIES • Private Enclosed Parking • Jacuzzi Tubs • High Speed Data Service • Controlled Access Security System • Modern Architectural Kitchens and Baths • European Cabinets • Solid-Core Doors • Roof-Top Patio • Downtown Views

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community

Social Scene: Pujols Family Foundation O’ Night Divine Christmas Celebration December 3 ∑ More than 650 supporters of the Pujols Family Foundation, including celebrities Stan Musial, Mike Matheny, Lou Brock and the Pujols family, gathered at Khorassan Ballroom at Chase Park Plaza to celebrate another amazing year for the foundation. Guests joined in the festivities and heard inspiring stories of children and adults in the St. Louis region who live with Down syndrome. Albert and Deidre Pujols, who have a daughter with Down syndrome, keep this foundation close to their hearts and also aim to improve the lives of people living in poverty in Albert’s home country, the Dominican Republic, by promoting awareness and hope.

Photos courtesy of UPI/Greenblatt.

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1 Albert Pujols, Stan Musial, Brian Schwarze & Deidre Pujols 2 Heather Heller & Patrick Hanon Jr. 3 Meadowlark Lemon & Todd Perry 4 Mike Matheny 5 Chris Garcia, John Loudon, McGraw Milhaven & Chris Lowery 6 Hank and Kimberly Crossett, Albert and Deidre Pujols & Joanne and Patrick Hanon 7 Stan Musial & Albert Pujols 8 David and Lelia Farr & Todd Perry

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community

Social Scene: Stray Rescue’s Hope for the Holidays Gala December 2 ∑ Animal-lovers came out to celebrate at Stray Rescue’s 14th annual Hope for the Holidays Gala at the Moto Museum to support the organization’s mission to rescue neglected and abused animals and provide proper care until they are adopted by loving owners. Guests at the gala enjoyed gourmet food and drinks, enticing auctions and live music provided by The Sages. A special presentation featured a Stray Rescue video and the announcement of this year’s Hope for the Holidays Award recipient, Stray Rescue Lead Veterinarian Dr. Karen Rooney. The night concluded with a candlelight blessing over the dogs for all to enjoy. Photos courtesy of Stray Rescue.

1 Weezy, Stracks & Our Little Girl 2 Barb Bagby & Randy Grim 3 Kasey Bergh & Elaine Hendrix 4 Jennifer Hayes 5 Lori Richards & Our Little Girl 6 Andy Banker 7 Jason and Kaite Flamm, Judy Northcutt & Emily and Dan Fesler

Get HighLow

Blouse available at Splash, Clayton, 314.721.6442. Leotard, stylist's own. a

Earn Your Stripes

Alice + Olivia dress available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9200.

60 ALIVE STL february 2012

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Revolution A gray area between winter and spring defines fashion's prevailing, surprisingly powerful season. Photography + Art Direction by Attilio D'Agostino Styling by Jill Manoff Model: Bree Smith for Mother Model Management, mothermodelmanagement.com Makeup + Hair by Lisa Kalz, lisakalz.com

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february 2012 ALIVE STL 61

Cuff Love

Riller maxi dress available at Vie, Ladue, 314.997.0124. Laura Kathleen cuffs available at Ivy Hill, Central West End, 314.367.7004.

62 ALIVE STL february 2012

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Fresh & Airy

Gottex tunic available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9200. Serefina necklace available at Ivy Hill, Central West End, 314.367.7004.

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february 2012 ALIVE STL 63

Wing Woman

Again dress available at Epiphany Boutique, Midtown, 314.249.5384.

64 ALIVE STL february 2012

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Big Soft Tee Tee available at Splash, Clayton, 314.721.6442. Fashion assistant: Jordan Dunahue; makeup and hair assistant: Adrienne Bruce.

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february 2012 ALIVE STL 65

Buzz List the

St. Louis' most influential people, organizations and ideas of 2012.

By Katie Davis, Amy De La Hunt, Jill Manoff, Cristy Miller, Gwen Ragno and Matt Sorrell Photography by Tuan Lee Art Direction by Kristin Kellogg Edited by Jennifer Dulin Wiley

66 ALIVE STL february 2012

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MV-Freese David Freese, 28, 2011 World Series MVP, St. Louis Cardinals Third Baseman è There's arguably no one more popular in St. Louis right now than David Freese, the man, in many ways, behind one of the biggest comebacks in the history of baseball. The smell of sweet victory is

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still in the air, following what really began in Game 6 of the 2011 World Series—the match pegged as one of the greatest World Series games of all time—where fans watched as the Cards battled through a roller coaster of errors, then numerous comebacks of hits and home runs. And, if there's anything that sports fans love more than a do-or-die game, it's a hometown hero. Enter Cards third baseman, Freese, a Lafayette High School grad who's had his share of hurdles over the last few years, including a right ankle injury during the 2010 season and a fractured left hand that caused him to miss

two months of play in 2011. But, just as the Cardinals rallied after falling behind 10½ games in the NL wild card in August to make it into the postseason, Freese's epic walkoff home run in the bottom of the 11th inning of Game 6 won the game (and extended the series) for the Cards—and catapulted Freese into the spotlight that reached well beyond Cardinal Nation. “It's one of the greatest experiences to be down like that and come back as a team,” Freese says. “I really learned to believe in myself.” Freese set a postseason record with 21 RBIs and took home the title of 2011 World Series MVP and a 2012 Chevy Corvette. He also went on a whirlwind of media appearances afterward that included a stop at “The Tonight Show” with Jay Leno, “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” the Country Music Awards and a guest role on the ABC sitcom “Work It.” And, although “David Freese” is now a household name, he's still as down-to-earth as he was when he started in the majors just three years ago. Crediting the support of his family, Freese says that just making it to the big leagues was a dream come true, and the fact that he's now a world champion, well, that makes it all the more special. After all, he's still the same David Freese who played baseball in his backyard, mere minutes away from Busch Stadium. The only difference now, according to him: “I've got a ring.” – Cristy Miller

on david: Hugo Boss vest available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9200. Theory henley available at Moris Fashions, Central West End, 314.361.6800. february 2012 ALIVE STL 67

Buzz List

Style child Emily Brady Koplar, 31, Fashion Designer, Wai Ming è “I've already received orders from retailers all over the country, and Bermuda—we're international!” jokes Emily Brady Koplar, the fashion design phenomenon whose first Spring 2012 collection hits stores (including STLbased Ivy Hill and Cha) this month. Titled Wai Ming (Chinese for “Gift of Light” and Koplar's given middle name), the line is composed of cool, subtly-feminine pieces with clean lines and a European flair “that can be worn from day to night, in different cities and in different seasons,” says the Parsons School of Design grad, who credits her postcollege experience (including work under Vivienne Tam) for her apparent knack for the fashion world. Although she flits to New York each month to oversee the line's production, she remains based in St. Louis, where many of her pattern- and sample-makers are located—and is settling into her role of “driven boss.” “You have to be the one who lights a fire under your own butt because nobody else will,” Koplar says. “And that's what I have to do to expand.” – Jill Manoff

behind-the-scenes video Scan the tag from your smart phone to see exclusive interviews with everyone on the Buzz List. Visit http://gettag. mobi to get the free app.

68 ALIVE STL february 2012

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music mavens Blu Bolden, 39, Campus Director, Ex'treme Institute è Born of a partnership with world-famous rapper Nelly, the latest addition to the Vatterott family of colleges aims to educate the next generation of music producers and, in the process, reunite the STL music scene—a mission that Blu Bolden can firmly stand behind. As former vice president of Nelly's St. Louis-based record label Derrty Entertainment, Bolden is well-versed in the management of a professional studio. She's always had an itch to get into education, so when the opportunity to be involved in the Ex'treme Institute arose, she jumped at the chance. Her hope is that the institute will help unite the fractured communities of musicians and producers she grew up as a part of. “At one point, St. Louis was a big music city—the blues scene was a big deal here,” she says. “That got lost somewhere along the way, and it's very disconnected now.” As campus director of the new school, Bolden sees herself as the principal, taking care of the day-to-day operations and using her connections and Nelly's network to bring in some of the top professionals in the industry as guests, lecturers and clients. Carl Nappa, 43, Executive Director, Ex'treme Institute è Leading the charge at Nelly’s new Ex'treme Institute as executive director is Carl Nappa, an industry veteran and Nelly's personal sound engineer for over alivemag.com

five years. A player in the recording industry since age 19, Nappa has spent his career working with the likes of Mariah Carey, Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder, and has now taken on the leadership of EI as a way to give back to the music

community. He's played a key role in developing the curriculum and programs, as well as furnishing the stateof-the-art studio in Laclede's Landing with cutting-edge recording and production equipment. EI is a school by day and a professional studio

by night, where students put their new skills to use as they work alongside seasoned professionals, just as Nappa did. “It's not about a diploma, but the life experience you have in the industry,” he says. “I learned what I know in the field.” – Gwen Ragno february 2012 ALIVE STL 69

Buzz List

In Good Company Jay Indovino, 48, Executive Director, Pedal the Cause è With just two years under its belt, Pedal the Cause is already becoming a popular turn of phrase in St. Louis, and it's far from putting on the brakes in 2012. The annual cycling challenge has succeeded in attracting more than 2,000 bike riders and raising upwards of $2.2 million in seed funding for cancer research projects at Siteman Cancer Center and St. Louis Children's Hospital in its first two years—an incredible feat for the young organization founded by two-time cancer survivor Bill Koman and avid endurance athlete Jay Indovino. It's been so successful, in fact, that Indovino left his 25year career in finance to act as the organization's executive director. Today, Indovino and a handful of Pedal staffers are dedicated to raising $2 million in 2012, building a platform for growth and spreading awareness on a more regional level. A tall order, no doubt, but Indovino knows they “can be a part of making great strides in cancer research—and have a lot of fun doing it.” Faith Sandler, 51, Executive Director, The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis è “Every day when I come home, I know what I did really matters; there's not a better job in town.” After 22 years as executive director of The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis—which, in 2011 alone, provided $3.5 million in interest-free loans and grants 70 ALIVE STL february 2012

to 600 area students in need— Faith Sandler's job satisfaction is tough to dispute. The fruits of her fundraising—from sales at the two local ScholarShop locations and charitable contributions (one of six is from a graduate whose education was supported by the 92-year-old foundation)— also support programs that educate an average of 3,000 students annually on applying for college admission and financial aid. With her efforts currently focused on building an online scholarship application system where students can tell their stories once to a number of organizations, Sandler hopes that 2012 will mark a revolution in the management of private scholarships. “There shouldn't be a single unused dollar—or a program that says, ‘We just couldn't find the right student.’” – Jill Manoff

show on the Oprah Winfrey Network. “Welcome to Sweetie Pie's” debuted last year to much fanfare—so much that Montgomery and her son Tim Norman began taping a second season in November. But, Montgomery is no stranger to the spotlight. After finding fame as a backup singer for Tina Turner, The Supremes and the Rolling Stones, she opened the first Sweetie Pie's in 1996. Eight years later, she opened a second location in The Grove, and today, she's making headlines with the expansion of a third Sweetie Pie's in Grand Center. The new venture opens this spring with a restaurant, banquet hall, culinary school and performing arts center—combining Montgomery's longtime love of music and food.

Foodie Fortune Kevin Willman, 33, Chef/Owner, Farmhaus è You'd hardly suspect a chef whose menu includes dishes like bacon-wrapped meatloaf or nachos to be honored by “Food and Wine Magazine” as one of the best alivemag.com

new chefs of 2011. That is, until you've savored the merlot reduction in Chef Kevin Willman's meatloaf or tasted his housemade sweet potato chips with fire-roasted red pepper ketchup. It's Willman's locavore-focused menu and witty take on the classics that got the attention of “Food and Wine” editors

and earned him national recognition just one year after opening Farmhaus in South City. But, don't think the rapid success has gone to his head. The humble chef—who's also known for tweeting his daily-changing menu and “Blue Plate” special—says he still has much to accomplish. What's next?

We're guessing his 2,400-andcounting Twitter followers will be the first to know. Robbie Montgomery, 71, Chef/Owner, Sweetie Pie's è Sweetie Pie's owner Robbie Montgomery is experiencing a new kind of success—as the star of her own reality

David Bailey, 33, Owner, Baileys' Range è For this unstoppable St. Louis restaurateur, 2011 marked two big milestones: the birth of his first child and the opening of his fourth restaurant. And, while David Bailey might be new to parenthood, he's certainly no novice to creating successful restaurants. Most of us have savored a chocolate martini at Baileys' Chocolate Bar, enjoyed a roasted apple crepe at Rooster or sipped a craft brew at Bridge. And now, the serial foodie has debuted the new grass-fed burgers and shakes concept, Baileys' Range, which has already achieved hotspot status— thanks to the deliciously creative burger menu (complete with housemade buns and sauces) and made-on-site ice cream flavors. As for what's next, Bailey points to more restaurants in the future, but his focus is elsewhere for now. If four restaurants and a new baby don't keep him busy, we're not sure what will. – Cristy Miller february 2012 ALIVE STL 71

Buzz List Buzz List

Treasure hunters Annie Brahler, 45, Owner & Phil Black, 46, Lead Carpenter, Euro Trash è It's Annie Brahler's passion—or “obsession,” as she labels it—that has built her business. And, there's virtually nothing else like the 15-year-old import firm in the metro area. Among Brahler's unique services is the ability to supply vintage and antique finds (this 18th-century sofa is one of many) from France, Holland and Belgium to retailers nationwide. And, they're 100 percent her finds. “I got frostbite once because I was holding a mirror on top of our van while driving in Brussels; I couldn't move my hand, and I didn't care,” Brahler laughs. A pioneer in the anti-reproductions movement, Brahler oversees a team of carpenters (headed by Phil Black), installers and seamstresses—as well as warehouses in Europe and Illinois. She also takes on extra projects that truly excite her, including elaborate design jobs spanning up to three years—and starring in her own TV show. Currently mid-filming, the end result will tout “trusting your own instincts, and not thinking you need a brand name to bring it into your house.” Call it a foreign concept. – Jill Manoff

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ing and production company. Her background doesn't exactly read “film,” but it's been an ongoing passion, and after a lot of research and guidance, she and her two business partners (Brice and Claude Dal Farra), formed the NY-based production company, BCDF Pictures. Over just two years, BCDF has produced films like “Higher Ground,” starring Vera Farmiga, “Bachelorette,” featuring Kirsten Dunst and Isla Fisher, and “Liberal Arts,” with Elizabeth Olsen, Josh Radnor and Zac Efron. Five out of the first seven BCDF films have already been accepted at international film festivals, including “Bachelorette,” “Liberal Arts” and “Predisposed,” which all made the cut for Sundance 2012—a big step for putting St. Louis on the filmmaker map. Move over, Hollywood, Munsch is making her entrance.

Film Fanatics Carlyn Graumenz, 29, Producer/Production Manager, Lamplight Films è It might not be Hollywood, but Carlyn Graumenz sees St. Louis as an emerging city for high-production and professional films. Companies like Lamplight Films and their crews “might not live on alivemag.com

the coast,” she says, “but it's becoming known that we are just as talented and can create high-quality films right here in the Midwest.” After handling 60+ networks' commercials, scripts and advertising production for Charter Media—not to mention directing music videos and breaking into feature film production with the UK release of “Bring-

ing Up Bobby”—Graumenz completed her jump to the film industry with Lamplight in 2009. She had the business savvy and video background to help Lamplight grow, and has been instrumental in producing all of its feature-length films, as well as a new reality series called “Roofies”—about the down and dirty lives of Midwest roofers.

Lauren Munsch, 33, Producer/Partner, BCDF Pictures è To say that Lauren Munsch is an over-achiever would be an understatement. This SLU Med School grad, Wash U Internal Med alum, NYC Cardiology fellow and Founder/CEO of the STL-based Anthropedia Foundation also happens to own and operate a film financ-

Chris Benson, 37, Owner/Director of Photography, Lamplight Films è With 40 local films, 12 St. Louis Film Festival appearances and industry awards for Best Cinematography and Best Director under his belt, Chris Benson has come a long way since serving as his classmates' go-to film guy at Webster University. Since then, he's filmed everything from a Syfy Channel movie to videos for stars like Nelly and Murphy Lee. In 2003, Benson created Lamplight Films as an STL-based production company with a feature film focus and has kept plenty busy ever since—having wrapped production on local thriller “Call Me On Tuesday” and film noir “23 Minutes to Sunrise” last year alone. This year, Lamplight goes into production with local flick “The Lemp Legacy” and “Standby,” starring Burt Reynolds. Benson says Missouri's loss of the film tax credit has been a challenge, but he still sees opportunities in St. Louis and vows to stay true to his mission of making high-quality films locally at a low budget. – Katie Davis february 2012 ALIVE STL 73

the Buzz List Buzz List

STL's Silicon Valley Jay DeLong, 44, Vice President for New Ventures & Capital Formation, Regional Chamber and Growth Association (RCGA) Pat Bannister, 59, Director of Business Development, St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC) Kevin Farrell, 61, Senior Director of Economic & Housing Development, The Partnership for Downtown St. Louis è With all the bad news about the economy, you'd think an incubator for startup IT companies would be a hard sell. Not so. In fact, the Technology Entrepreneur Center in Downtown's Railway Exchange Building (now dubbed T-REx) has exceeded expectations for attracting tenants since it opened last summer—any number of which could be the next big thing in IT. As of January, 20 IT-centric businesses—including social media organizer Gremlin, customer relations software company JBara and medical device developers Pulse Therapeutics—called the 25,000-square-foot T-REx home. The building's owner, 74 ALIVE STL february 2012

developer Rick Yackey, provides lowcost leased space, and the Partnership for Downtown St. Louis, RCGA and SLDC each donated $35,000 to underwrite the incubator's creation and operation. But, T-REx is much more than a cheap place to work. Because the entrepreneurs are all tech-focused, they benefit from synergies in services, skill sharing, discounted tuition at Wash U's IT Center, mentorship and the camaraderie a space like this evokes. The ultimate mission is to get investors interested in funding these startups, and thanks to the Downtown Partnership, SLDC and RCGA, funders like this are already being brought to the table. From there, it's up to the companies, which is why T-REx members participate in weekly practice pitch sessions. The goal for the space itself is to be self-sustaining, perhaps as early as Q1 of 2012. There's room to expand the IT capacity, but another idea being tossed around is a fashion incubator. High tech and high heels all under one roof? Talk about a combination we can embrace. – Amy De La Hunt alivemag.com

Anthony Favazza, 35, Founder, DiningCircle è Son of an iconic local restaurateur, Anthony Favazza has a soft spot for mom-andpop eateries—and a real beef with anyone who shortchanges them. Formerly a corporate lawyer in New York City, Favazza moved back to St. Louis to look for a business niche. After fruitlessly researching a reasonably priced, easy-to-use online reservation service, he realized he'd found his niche. Favazza understands the value in simplifying reservations, but as a tech-savvy businessman, he knows customer e-mail interaction provides a big potential for profit. Initially, the $50,000 investment attracted him to the Capital Innovators mentorship at T-REx, but he's now more appreciative of the innovation side of the program, which has helped him refine his sales model, research new software solutions and explore expansion plans to regional cities like Indianapolis, Memphis and New Orleans. Favazza is already off to a strong start, and couldn't be happier that it all started here. “St. Louis has an amazing food culture,” he says. “This is a pretty special place.”

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Judy Sindecuse CEO/Managing Partner, Capital Innovators è Could the next Facebook or Groupon come out of St. Louis? Certainly, says Judy Sindecuse, a “serial entrepreneur” of sorts, whose startups include “Bride & Groom Magazine,” Oversees Colorworks and Printing and realestate development company Redesign. Would they face unique challenges here? Yes again. Chief among these is a lack of venture capitalists and angel investors, those deeppocketed funders who bring startups to the next level. Her program, Capital Innovators (another T-REx tenant), provides $50,000 and 12 weeks of mentorship for early stage tech startups in return for a small stake in the company to “get them growing as far as possible as fast as possible on as small a dime as possible.” CI works with five companies at a time, helping shape their pitches and products so they can seize financial opportunities. Building a local pool of IT venture capital is Sindecuse's long-term goal, in addition to marketing the region to venture capitalists nationwide. Let's just say when the program's Demo Day is held April 4, the pitches will be ready. – Amy De La Hunt

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Buzz List

drama queen Joan Lipkin, 57, Producing Artistic Director, That Uppity Theatre Company & Cofounder, The DisAbility Project è A self-proclaimed cultural provocateur and a “not-sosecret agent of social change,” Joan Lipkin and her methods might seem subversive, but that's the point. “You can't have a healthy community if you only have big institutions,” she says. “You need a cultural landscape with all kinds of people coming up from the margins and pushing towards the center.” The Arts & Education Council has named Lipkin the Arts Innovator of the Year in its 2012 St. Louis Arts Awards, and she has been asked to design and direct theater programs in universities from Yale to Alabama. Often using humor as a way to approach difficult subjects—from disability, cancer and Alzheimer's to LGBT and reproductive choice issues— Lipkin employs That Uppity Theatre Company and The DisAbility Project (in which people with disabilities perform plays about their lives) in her mission to tell the stories that aren't being told and provoke new ways of thinking. Lipkin's first big project of the year is co-producing a theater festival called, “Briefs: A Festival of Short Lesbian and Gay Plays,” on Feb. 2426—the first of its kind in St. Louis. – Gwen Ragno 76 ALIVE STL february 2012

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But, like so many creative types, he always harbored a dream of getting out from under the yoke and doing his own thing. So, in early 2011, he took the leap into the craft beer fray and opened Urban Chestnut. Kuplent stays firmly rooted in classic European styles with Urban Chestnut's Reverence series of beers, while also taking a more modern, artisanal approach with the libations in the Revolution line. Now, the talented brewmaster is upping the ante even more by experimenting with aging beers in bourbon barrels and starting an onsite bottling operation. Kuplent, who knows a thing or two about these things, says he sees St. Louis becoming a true craft beer mecca—and he's certainly doing his part to make it happen.

Masters of Brew Jake Hafner, 38, Owner, The Civil Life Brewing Company è Jake Hafner, former owner of 33 Wine Bar, says despite his love of the grape, he's always indulged more in beer than wine—so it was only natural that his

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next project would be hopscentered. Hafner's brewery, which he opened with brewers Dylan Mosley and Mike Bianco in fall 2011, specializes in lower-alcohol session ales that are well-balanced, easy on the palate and eminently quaffable. Hafner sees The Civil Life's niche in the rapidly expanding craft beer scene in St. Louis

to be that of an old-school public house. He wants the Civil Life tasting room, located with the brewery in a refurbished warehouse in Tower Grove South, to be a place where friends can meet up, sit at the Germanstyle picnic benches, raise a glass or two and nosh a bit while discussing the events of the day.

Florian Kuplent, 38, Co-founder/Brewmaster, Urban Chestnut Brewing Company è Florian Kuplent boasts an impressive brewing pedigree—having studied the art in Germany and then spending a couple of decades in the beer industry, including a stint with local beer behemoth Anheuser-Busch.

Kevin Lemp, 33, President, 4 Hands Brewing Company è Kevin Lemp always wanted to own his own business, but for a long time, he didn't know what it would be. His experience in the wine and spirits industry fomented his love of craft beer, which eventually led to the idea of making his own commercial brews. 4 Hands (the name represents Lemp, his wife and two sons) takes a creative, culinary approach to the art of brewing, featuring big beers with robust flavors—thanks to bold hops, malts and nontraditional ingredients (like the fall seasonal ale made with sweet potatoes and aged on whiskey-infused pecan wood chips). Lemp and head brewer Will Johnston have started barrel-aging some of the brews, and even suggest food pairings, leaving the menu to some of the top chefs in town with a rotating roster of local food trucks that serve up their signature fare in the tasting room. – Matt Sorrell february 2012 ALIVE STL 77

Buzz List

Boy Geniuses Howie Sher, 44, Head of State, What-A-Ya Nuts?! è He might goof off in ads, but Howie Sher is totally serious about growing his brand of healthy nut cluster snacks. Since September's local launch with four unique flavors (Jalepeño Hysteria, anyone?), Sher has been eyeing other markets—and envisioning a day when baseball stadium vendors are shouting “What-A-Ya Nuts?!” as often as “Cracker Jack.” Sher's local roots go deep—the fourth-generation grocery store owner literally grew up talking about product placement and distribution. When he ventured into food manufacturing, his credentials got him in the door with former Kashi and Bear Naked Granola food development execs, who helped create the product, and his friendships in the industry led to serendipitous marketing coups like a spot on the dessert menu at Herbie's Vintage 72. Success with an all-natural snack in the conservative Midwest is a litmus test—and Sher’s hometown test market is already eating out of the palm of his hand. Sam Franklin, 21, Founder, Greenvelope.com è Sam Franklin makes entrepreneurship look easy. The Wash U student thought ad-laden online invites weren't classy enough for weddings or professional events, and started tinkering with ways to address it. Within nine months, Greenvelope.com sales were at $9,000 monthly, and Franklin went from designing 75 per-

cent himself (pulling 18-hour days with classes) to having a team of three developers, two designers and one support agent. The invitations are simple enough to integrate into online calendars, yet are visually appealing enough to print if Grandma doesn't have e-mail. Franklin's goal for 2012 is to develop more invite options and “features that no one else is doing.” The entrepreneur community has embraced Franklin, and mentors are helping him structure his organization so it's scalable. We have no doubt this ecofriendly concept will need it. Robert Paul, 41, Chief Science Officer, Nawgan è Experts and potential investors gave Dr. Robert Paul heat when he wanted to launch a new brain health beverage promising to increase focus and concentration right here in St. Louis. But, he says Nawgan couldn't have originated anywhere else. For this neuropsychologist, the nexus behind Nawgan was marketing versus science. Many beverages that claim to boost focus and alertness are more hype than substance, and they don't always taste good. Nawgan's all-natural ingredients—Cognizin® citicoline, lycopene and vitamin E—are known to be associated with cognitive performance, which caught the attention of Japan-based Kirin Holdings, one of the largest beverage companies in the world. In 2012, Nawgan will expand beyond shelves in St. Louis into Florida, Arizona and California. But, Paul won't divulge his new flavors just yet. Our thirsty brains will have to wait and see. – Amy De La Hunt

Shaheera Bhutto, facebook.com/shaheeramakesup Valerie Brown, thevaleriebrown.com & Maria Antoinette, facebook.com/HairbyMariaAntoinette Photo Assistants: Meg Hensley, James Gamble, Aaron Kaskowitz, & Brittany Accardi stylists: Katie Conran, Jordan Dunahue & Lily Sullivan Makeup by Hair by

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2012

Best Lawyers Meet the top legal professionals of St. Louis

As a cultural and social hub of the Midwest, St. Louis is proud to call itself home to a multitude of some of the most talented, professional and accommodating lawyers in the country. To help you find the right one to fit your legal needs, ALIVE compiled a list of the most reliable, trustworthy attorneys in the area with a range of specialties, from class action to criminal to divorce law.

HAIS, HAIS, GOLDBERGER, & COYNE P.C. Hais, Hais, Goldberger & Coyne, P.C. is a full-service family law firm, limiting its practice to complex divorce cases and modifications of decrees, custody, property division and support, business and professional practice valuations, stock options, tax-related divorce issues, pension problems and enforcement of decrees. Its core staff of full-time attorneys and paralegals has provided in-depth client services, meticulous case preparation and complete litigation management throughout the firm’s 31-year history. Additionally, the firm employs an extended group of financial experts, tax and pension benefits professionals, therapists, psychologists and vocational experts to provide the highest level of preparation possible in its trial presentations. Since launching the firm in 1979, founder Susan M. Hais has represented many of St. Louis’most prominent citizens from a great variety of professions and occupations and has been personally responsible for the establishment of an impressive array of legal precedents in the area of divorce law, child custody, benefits, grandparents’ rights, property division and spousal support. Samuel J. Hais, before joining the firm, was a judge of the 21st Judicial Circuit, St. Louis County, where he was a founding member and judge of the Family Court of St. Louis County for many years.

Samuel and Susan Hais have both written and lectured extensively in the area of family law. In 2007, the firm was proud to welcome new partner Elliot Goldberger, who has practiced law for more than 24 years, with a concentration on family law. In 2008, another partner was added. Kieran (Kerry) Coyne is a 26-year veteran in family law. In 2010, Amy and Robert Dennis became partners in the firm. Associates Joseph Lambson, Kevin Greene and Julie Hixson-Lambson round out the firm’s roster of attorneys. The guiding principal of Hais, Hais, Goldberger & Coyne has always been to limit its practice to family law and to provide the best representation possible at the most costeffective price. That is the firm’s pledge to you.

Hais, Hais, Goldberger, & Coyne P.C. 222 S Central Ave #600 | St. Louis, MO hhgc-law.com | 314.862.1300

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2012 | Best Lawyers

From left to right: Kieran Coyne, Robert Dennis, Kevin Greene, Joe Lambson, Elliott Goldberger, Sam Hais, Susan Hais, Amy Dennis (not shown: Julie Hixson Lambson)

ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

2012 | Best Lawyers

PAULE, CAMAZINE & BLUMENTHAL

Standing left to right: Jack C. Hauser, Susan E. Block, Bruce E. Friedman, David M. Slaby, Alan E. Freed, Tim Schlesinger, Amy Hoch Hogenson, Ryan L. Munro, Allison Schreiber Lee, Lisa G. Moore. Seated left to right: Alisse Camazine, and Kathryn L. Dudley

Experienced, Quality Legal Representation Whether you are going through a painful divorce, trying to survive as a newly divorced person, seeking an Order of Protection or modifying your prior divorce decree–for all of your family law matters, you can depend on the family law attorneys at Paule, Camazine & Blumenthal for the compassion and commitment you need. We pride ourselves on providing creative, thoughtful and cost-effective legal representation that successfully resolves your legal concerns. Several of the attorneys at Paule, Camazine & Blumenthal have been elected as fellows in the highly exclusive American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and are perennially listed in The Best Lawyers in America and Missouri & Kansas Super Lawyers. We are accessible attorneys who can handle any case, from the uncontested divorce to the multi-million dollar contested divorce, including those with complicated property division, complex custody disputes and signiﬁcant maintenance awards. Further, we can provide assistance with surrogacy and fertility issues. In addition, our attorneys enjoy the distinct advantage of having at their disposal the other 14 Paule, Camazine & Blumenthal attorneys, who possess a wide range of legal experience in areas as diverse as tax and estate planning, corporate law,

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immigration, real estate, shareholder agreements, succession planning, intellectual property, litigation, mediation and arbitration, insurance defense and personal injury. We provide clients with an atmosphere that is both accessible and comfortable. One of our ﬁrst jobs as your attorneys is to listen carefully to your concerns and help you achieve your goals and objectives. Our teamoriented law ofﬁces offer the experience and emphasis on quality that you should expect from someone whom you trust to represent your interests. THE CHOICE OF A LAWYER IS AN IMPORTANT ONE AND SHOULD NOT BE BASED SOLELY ON AN ADVERTISEMENT.

Paule, Camazine & Blumenthal 165 N Meramec Ave #110 | St. Louis, MO 800 Friedens Road, Suite 203 | St. Charles, MO pcblawﬁrm.com | 314.727.2266

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2012 | Best Lawyers

LEWIS, RICE & FINGERSH, L.C.

Congratulations to the 30 St. Louis-based Lewis, Rice & Fingersh attorneys who have been named to the 2012 Best Lawyers in America® annual list: John C. Bodnar, Brian D. Bouquet, Jonathan F. Dalton, Steven C. Drapekin, Thomas C. Erb, William J. Falk, John M. Hessel, Frank B. Janoski, Rosemarie M. Karcher, Benjamin A. Lipman, Matthew J. Madsen, Joseph E. Martineau, Tracy Mathis, Marian V. Mehan, Jaime R. Mendez, Michael D. Mulligan, Larry E. Parres, Catherine R. Phillips, John K. Pruellage, Jacob W. Reby, John J. Rifﬂe, Albert S. Rose, Andrew Rothschild, Barry A. Short, Gary M. Smith, Joseph J. Trad, Richard B. Walsh, Jr., Lawrence H. Weltman, Joseph H. Weyhrich, Tom W. Zook Selected Practice Areas: Commercial Litigation, Corporate, Estate Planning & Probate, Health Care, Intellectual Property, Labor & Employment, Real Estate, Taxation

Lewis, Rice & Fingersh, L.C. 600 Washington Ave Suite 2500 | St. Louis, MO 314.444.7600 | lewisrice.com

ROSENBLUM, SCHWARTZ, ROGERS & GLASS, P.C. St. Louis criminal defense attorney N. Scott Rosenblum is president and principal founding member of Rosenblum, Schwartz, Rogers and Glass, P.C., a legal team with over 130 years of combined experience. The ﬁrm has a longstanding reputation for thoroughness, aggressive representation and—most importantly—results. Rosenblum specializes in federal and state criminal law and has tried more than 350 cases for both businesses and individuals charged with white collar business and fraud crimes, as well as sex, murder and drug offenses. In addition to representing clients in Missouri and Illinois, Rosenblum travels across the country for federal cases from coast to coast. Rosenblum earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri in 1979 and his J.D. from California Western University in 1983. He is admitted to the Missouri and Illinois bar associations, the United States District Court for the Eastern and Western districts of Missouri, as well as other districts throughout the country, including the United States Court of Appeals, 5th, 7th and 8th Circuits and United States Supreme Court.

alivemag.com

N. Scott Rosenblum, Partner Rosenblum, Schwartz, Rogers & Glass, P.C. 120 South Central Ave., Suite 130 | St. Louis, MO rsrglaw.com | 314.862.4332

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4 ALIVE STL OCTOBER 2009

2012 | Best Lawyers

TIFFANY M. YIATRAS, PARTNER, CAREY DANIS & LOWE

Yiatras takes pride in taking the time to really understand her clients’ concerns and providing reliable legal support for those who cannot advocate for themselves. “When people sit down to talk with me about their case, they walk away feeling a sense of relief that someone who knows what they are doing is really trying to help them,” she says. Carey Danis & Lowe has the resources to take on corporate giants like banks, pharmaceutical companies and manufacturers of defective products, all of which have seemingly unlimited resources to try to avoid legal responsibility. The skilled attorneys of Carey Danis & Lowe 5 ALIVE STL OctOber 2009

are familiar with the backdoor strategies these large companies use and they know how to counter them effectively. The firm is committed to protecting its clients regardless of background and financial status. “Many of our clients are unable to afford an hourly attorney and all of the expenses that are associated with a case. Our clients can expect that they will get the same skills, resources and respect as someone who could afford to take on corporations with their own resources,” Yiatras says. With a caring, committed team and a résumé full of victories against corporations, Carey Danis & Lowe is a reputable and reliable firm capable of assisting even the most disheartened of clients. Practice Areas: Pharmaceutical Litigation, Class Action Lawsuits/ Investigations, Consumer Protection, Product Liability, Serious Personal Injury, Medical Malpractice, Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices.

Tiffany M. Yiatras, Partner, Carey Danis & Lowe 8235 Forsyth Boulevard, Suite 1100 | St. Louis, MO careydanis.com | tyiatras@careydanis.com | 314.725.7700

ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

alivemag.com

Photo by Virginia Harold.

It is an unfortunate reality that dangerous side effects of certain pharmaceutical drugs can surface after years of being marketed to the public as healthy and harmless. Tiffany Marko Yiatras of St. Louis-based law firm Carey Danis & Lowe specializes in representing individuals against drug companies for wrongdoing associated with the sales and marketing of defective prescription drugs. She also represents people who have been scammed or defrauded by companies that engage in various types of unfair or deceptive trade practices. In the past year, Yiatras has settled several multimillion-dollar cases against major credit card companies. She is also representing hundreds of individuals who have been harmed by defective drugs and medical devices, including women who suffered serious health problems as a result of taking Yaz/Yasmin birth control pills and children born with birth defects because their mothers were prescribed Paxil® or Zoloft® while pregnant.

11 February

Saint Louis City Open Studio and Gallery

presents Wall Ball, an exciting evening of live artistry, DJs Wolfpeach Society, delicious appetizers provided by L'Ecole Culiniare and a sweet treat raffle, plus complimentary beer and wine. Engaging an eclectic mix artists, patrons, collectors and admirers, this annual event features amazing art at unreal prices through a unique silent auction. Creative dress is encouraged but not required.

7 pm 30 artists $50 Surprise your Valentine with an unexpected date!

Third Degree Glass Factory 5200 Delmar Blvd. • St. Louis, MO 63108

For more information, call

(314) 588-0073 or visit www.scosag.org Purchase tickets at

www.wallball2012.eventbrite.com Sponsored by

1/2_H_Template.indd 1

1/6/12 3:14 PM

• Stylish Modern Finishes • Amazing Location • 3 Story Penthouses!

Luxury Living Downtown Starting at $228,500.

• Culinaria next door • Fabulous Amenities

Inspired City Living For Private Showings, Call 314.517.5050

Developer Closeout Pricing! Visit the Syndicate Condominiums and see why it’s the most popular downtown residence! FHA Approved Building INCREDIBLE VIEWS! 100% Walkable

DINING

Make this Valentine’s Day special with a visit to one of the most romantic restaurants in St. Louis. From Turkish to Italian, ALIVE narrowed down its picks for top places to wine and dine your sweetie. From fabulous drinks to stunning views and decadent desserts, this date is sure to be one you will remember for years!

The Shaved Duck Don’t let the expertly smoked meats and homestyle sides fool you—The Shaved Duck is a far cry from your typical barbecue joint. A popular spot for ﬁrst dates year-round, the romantically lit space is casual and cozy, with an upscale folksy vibe. To add to the ambiance, the restaurant features live acoustic music three times a week. Local musician Pierce Crask takes the stage Valentine’s evening (and every Tuesday) with his Americana folk. The Shaved Duck doesn’t take reservations, but if you must wait for a table, do it in the comfy bar while enjoying the excellent craft beer selection—try O’Fallon’s Cocoa Cream Stout or Charleville’s Box of Chocolates.

2900 VIRGINIA AVE. SOUTH GRAND • 314.776.1407 THESHAVEDDUCK.COM

Let St. Louis’ best Turkish restaurant be your pick for a romantic night out this Valentine’s Day. Aya Sofia offers Turkish Mediterranean cuisine that combines Middle Eastern, Greek and Southern Italian flavors and cooking styles. Popular dishes include lamb and fresh fish, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try a selection of hot or cold meze—small plates perfect for sharing. Add a specialty cocktail or choose from a wine list featuring varieties from all over the world. For Valentine’s Day, let Executive Chef Mehmet Yildiz offer you and your sweetheart a special three-course menu, with wine pairings for each course designed by Aya Sofia’s in-house sommelier. End the evening on a sweet note with an authentic Turkish dessert like baklava or kadifye, or an indulgent chocolate treat. All the while, enjoy the attentive service at what has consistently been recognized as the best place for a date and the most romantic restaurant in St. Louis.

Aya Soﬁa ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

6671 CHIPPEWA ST. SOUTH CITY • 314.645.9919 AYASOFIACUISINE.COM

Romantic Guide DINING

Cielo

The task of planning the perfect Valentine’s Day dinner and evening can be a daunting endeavor to say the least. Look no further than the Four Seasons Hotel Downtown and its authentic Italian restaurant, Cielo. Comfortably perched on the 8th floor of the riverfront hotel, enjoy the delectable couples’ tasting menu in addition to an a la carte menu with a varied selection of Italian favorites, such as specialty pastas, risottos and stuffed raviolis, while admiring breathtaking floor-toceiling views of the city, river and Arch—the perfect backdrop to a romantic evening you will be sure to remember for years to come. Diners are in good hands with Fabrizio Schenardi, executive chef at Cielo and a native of Italy. He brings a creative twist to old favorites, such as the Veal Stuffed Ravioli, or the Stuffed Pork Tenderloin served with apricot-chestnut stuffing and brussels sprouts topped with mustard onion sauce. The cocktails are no small part of the Cielo experience, with a specialty cocktail program and house-made Limoncello crafted by Schenardi. For a special treat, try the Barrel Aged Empire, a light, fruity drink featuring a mix of gin, Lillet, dry vermouth, Luxardo liqueur and Campari. Complimentary valet parking is available for restaurant patrons.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL ST. LOUIS 999 N. SECOND ST. DOWNTOWN • 314.881.5759 CIELOSTLOUIS.COM

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St. Louis Restaurant Guide Log on to alivemag.com for an expanded list of recommended spots to dine, drink and dance. key $ Entrées average under $10 $$ Entrées $10–$17 $$$ Entrées $18+

Hot List 2011 Winner Late-night dining Outdoor seating Opened in the last 12 months

Intro Assessment $45 Central West End/ The Grove

Explore your unique needs and prepare for Pilates or Yoga classes, all at a great rate! 55 minutes of one-on-one attention

Take $5 off any session with the studio! Latest schedule and updates on classes/workshops/instructors: PILATESYOGASTUDIO.COM No Membership Fees – Pay as You Play

Pilates + Yoga + Kettlebell + Fitness + Conditioning 1015 McCausland Ave. (Next to the Hi-Pointe Theatre) 314.781.5050

aandPilates.indd 1

BRASSERIE BY NICHE Niche owner Gerard Craft brings his take on casual French dining to the CWE with an evolving menu of French bistro fare, an impressive beer list and classic desserts. Dinner served Mon.-Sun.; Sat. and Sun. brunch. 4580 Laclede Ave., 314.454.0600. $$

Chi This trendy Japanese sushi bar has some of the best St. Louis sushi rolls around; 1/17/12 11:59 AM the Lemon Drop roll is a must-try. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat. 4 N. Euclid Ave., 314.367.2209. $

Come Get Your Greek On! Happy Hour Monday-Friday, 4-7 pm Sunday, 9pm-close Mondays 4pm-close

1/2 oﬀ wine bottles

Tuesdays 4pm-close

1/2 oﬀ Mojitos

Wednesdays 4pm-close

$1 Stag Beer

Private Rooms Available

Valentine’s Day Special Lobster special with complimentary glass of champagne. Please call for reservations.

Monday - Saturday Dining 11 am - 11 pm Bar until 1 am

Sunday Dining 4 pm - 10 pm Bar until midnight

630 North and South, University City, MO 63130

314.863.3511 | momo-stl.com 88 ALIVE STL february 2012

Bixby’s Located on the second floor of the Missouri History Museum with breathtaking views of Forest Park, Bixby’s preserves the past while boldly embracing the future. Lunch served daily; Sun. brunch. 5700 Lindell Blvd., 314.361.7313. $$

CrÊpes: etc. This upscale patisserie serves both sweet and savory crêpes, as well as a variety of homemade pastries, soups and sandwiches. Breakfast and lunch served daily; dinner served Fri.-Sat. 52 Maryland Plaza, 314.367.2200. $ the Drunken Fish This stylish sushi lounge with an extensive Japanese menu offers everything from tuna tataki to traditional rolls. Half off signature martinis on Martini Mondays. Lunch and dinner served daily. 1 Maryland Plaza, 314.367.4222. $$ Herbie’s Vintage 72 A beloved classic is reborn, with contemporary American cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. Dinner served daily; Sat. and Sun. brunch. 405 N. Euclid Ave., 314.769.9595. $$

SANCTUARIA Fresh Pan-Latin-inspired tapas at this Grove destination include the signature “wild tapas” paired with handcrafted cocktails. Dinner served Tues.-Sun. 4198 Manchester Ave., 314.535.9700. $$ Scape american bistro Chef Eric Kelly has crafted an innovative menu of American cuisine at this contemporary CWE bistro. Dinner served Tues.-Sun.; Sun. brunch. 48 Maryland Plaza, 314.361.7227. $$$ scottish arms Authentic Scottish fare includes the best-selling lamb burger and Celtic crisps. Sample from the famous single malt scotch list and 22 local and import beers on tap. Lunch served Mon.-Fri.; dinner served daily; Sun. brunch. 8 South Sarah St., 314.535.0551. $$ SubZero Sample from more than 300 international labels of vodka, a wonderfully large list of drinks, sushi and a build-yourown burger menu. Dinner served daily. 308 N. Euclid Ave., 314.367.1200. $$ Tavern of Fine Arts Offering fine wines, seasonal appetizers and small plates, patrons can view art from local artists while relaxing with friends. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat. 313 Belt Ave., 314.367.7549. $

Midtown/Downtown AL’S RESTAURANT Known for steaks and seafood, Al’s is operated by three generations of one St. Louis family. Dinner served Tues.-Sat. 1200 N. First St., 314.421.6399. $$$

Pi Creative cocktails, homemade desserts and delicious San Fran-style pizza. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily. 400 N. Euclid Ave., 314.367.4300. $$

BRIDGE TAP HOUSE and WINE BAR A large craft beer and wine selection, as well as a full menu with tons of house-made touches. Lunch and dinner served daily. 1004 Locust St., 314.241.8141. $$

Salt Chef Wes Johnson’s adventurous menu is served in the unique ambiance of a former CWE mansion. Dinner served Wed.-Mon.; Sat. and Sun. brunch. 4356 Lindell Blvd., 314.932.5787. $$

BURGER BAR Celeb chef Hubert Keller offers build-your-own gourmet burgers with a large list of breads, meats and condiments to choose from. Lunch and dinner served daily. 999 N. 2nd St., 314.881.7580. $$

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Café Ventana Enjoy an extensive food selection, including sandwiches, beignets and pastries with your coffee. Open daily. 3919 W. Pine Blvd., 314.531.7500. $ CIELO A dynamic beverage list and Downtown’s most stunning views top off the quality Italian cuisine. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily. 999 N. 2nd St., 314.881.5759 $$$ The Fountain on Locust Indulge in freshly made appetizers, entrées, fine ice creams and retro cocktails, while admiring the hand-painted Art Deco interior. Lunch and dinner served Tues.-Sun. 3037 Locust St., 314.535.7800. $ House of Savoy This casually elegant restaurant features delicious and authentic Italian cuisine prepared by executive chef Paola Bugli. Dinner served Wed.-Sun. 999 N. 2nd St., 314.881.7830. $$$ LOLA This Downtown hotspot offers a large selection of unique cocktails, as well as French and American cuisine. Open daily; Sat. and Sun. brunch. 500 N. 14th St., 314.621.7277. $$ Lucas Park Grille The seasonal menu with fresh ingredients features soups, salads and New American entrées. Lunch and dinner served daily; Sat. and Sun. brunch. 1234 Washington Ave., 314.241.7770. $$$ Mango A little taste of South America in St. Louis, Mango’s Peruvian fusion dishes add a twist to foods you thought you knew. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat., dinner served Sun. 1101 Lucas Ave., 314.621.9993. $$ Mike Shannon’s This 20-year-old St. Louis landmark serves upscale American cuisine. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner served daily. 620 Market St., 314.421.1540. $$ Mosaic This modern fusion restaurant offers an array of cold and hot tapas. Lunch and dinner served Mon-Sat.; Sat. brunch. 1001 Washington Ave., 314.621.6001. $$ Prime 1000 Wash Ave.’s hotspot serves high-end steaks in a chic setting. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 1000 Washington Ave., 314.241.1000. $$$ rosalita’s cantina Enjoy Mexican favorites like fajitas, tacos and margaritas at this happening Tex-Mex restaurant. Lunch and dinner served daily. 1235 Washington Ave., 314.621.2700. $ Shula’s 347 Grill Located in Roberts Tower, Shula’s 347 Grill has an energetic atmosphere with quality burgers and steaks to match. Lunch and dinner served daily. 411 N. 8th St., 314.241.7267. $$$ TONY’S Tony’s has long been a St. Louis institution known for its attentive service and flawless cuisine. Dinner served Mon.-Sat. 410 Market St., 314.231.7007. $$$ alivemag.com

VIto’s Known for exceptional Italian cuisine and sicilian-style pizza, this spot also serves fresh pastas, calzones and more. Lunch served Mon.-Fri.; dinner served Mon.-Sun. 3515 Lindell Blvd., 314.534.8486. $$

Clayton/Ladue/ Richmond Heights Araka This gorgeous restaurant in Clayton’s The Crescent features delicious globally-inspired cuisine. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 131 Carondelet Plaza, 314.725.6777. $$$ BARcelona A see-and-be-seen hotspot to nosh on Spanish tapas. Lunch and dinner served daily. 34 N. Central Ave., 314.863.9909. $$ BOCCI BAR Bocci offers a taste of northern Italy with contemporary flair, served in a rustic, cozy interior. Lunch served Mon.-Fri.; dinner served Mon.-Sat. 16 N. Central Ave. 314.932.1040. $$ COASTAL BISTRO & BAR Coastal offers a brand new menu of fresh oysters and low country cuisine. Stop by during happy hour for fantastic oyster shooters. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat. 14 N. Central Ave., 314.932.7377. $$$ THE CROSSING This Clayton gem features a seasonal menu of farm-to-table fare. Lunch served Mon.-Fri.; dinner served Mon.-Sat. 7823 Forsyth Blvd. 314.721.7375. $$$ Demun Oyster Bar Flying in fresh oysters from the West Coast daily, Demun Oyster Bar is the ultimate destination for seafood enthusiasts. Lunch served Sat.; dinner served daily. 740 Demun Ave., 314.725.0322. $$ Houlihan’s Enjoy great burgers, and one of the best happy hour specials in the city. Lunch and dinner served daily. 1221 Strassner Dr., 314.863.9116. $$ J.Buck’s A Clayton staple for business lunches and happy hours, with flavorful classic offerings like pizza, pasta, burgers and baby back ribs. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat. 101 S. Hanley Rd., 314.725.4700. $$$ Kaldi’s This local coffee chain boast a variety of flavored coffees and premium blends. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily. 700 Demun Ave., 314.727.9955; 187 Carondelet Plaza, 314.726.2900. $ LESTER’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL Every sports-lover’s dream, with TVs at every post, top-notch bar fare and Mon.-Fri. happy hour from 3-6pm. Open daily. Multiple locations; lestersrestaurant.com. $$ Mad Tomato Enjoy a seasonal, farm-to-table menu, a selection of Italian wines, desserts and pastries. Lunch

Mon.-Fri.; dinner Tues.-Sat. 8000 Carondelet Ave., 314.932.5733. $$

ASe CH At R U S P Om Ket tIC mAg.C

MISO ON MERAMEC One of St. Louis’ most popular sushi spots, Miso is as famed for its Pan-Asian food as it is for its lounge. Dinner served Tues.-Sun. 16 N. Meramec Ave., 314.863.7888. $$

vE ALI

Océano St. Louis’ premier seafood bistro is an elegant addition to the Clayton dining scene. Lunch and dinner served daily. 44 N. Brentwood Blvd., 314.721.9400. $$$ Roxane This cozy tapas-style spot is home to a bohemian atmosphere and an eclectic menu. Lunch served Mon.-Fri.; dinner served Tues.-Sat. 12 N. Meramec Ave., 314.721.7700. $$ VINO NADOZ WINE BAR An intimate destination with an international wine experience and savory American-fusion cuisine. Dinner served Tues.-Sat. 16 The Blvd., 314.726.0400. $$

South City/ Hampton/The Hill

GLOW SPRING FASHION SHOW

t h u r s d ay, March 29

Anthonino’s Taverna Anthonino’s brings Greek flavor to The Hill with gyros and stuffed olives, as well as Italian staples. Lunch and dinner served Mon-Sat. 2225 Macklind Ave., 314.773.4455. $$ Aya Sofia Add a dash of culture to your diet with exotic Turkish and Mediterranean delights. Lunch served Tues.-Fri., dinner served Tues.-Sun.; Sun. brunch. 6671 Chippewa St., 314.645.9919. $$

incLudes a seat fOr the fashiOn shOW, a vip Gift baG, cOMpLiMentary drinks and hOrs d’Oeuvres. LiMited seats avaiLabLe.

incLudes entry tO the fashiOn shOW, cOMpLiMentary drinks and hOrs d’Oeuvres.