County Living Magazine by HEALTH&CARE®Journal

H O M E + H E A LT H + R E C R E AT I O N

COUNTY LIVING E A R LY S P R I N G 2 0 2 2

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Our craftsmen create custom designs that will last a lifetime. Using only the finest appliances inside our precise stone and concrete structures, we construct the most perfect outdoor living spaces for your enjoyment. Our ability to match your home’s materials, down to the mortar color, is unequaled. Luna Builds understands our clients’ higher expectations and our designs will “wow” guests of your home for years to come. Exceptional references provided on request. Call or email today for a consultation at your home.

S T.

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Live Better at Home

A new way to design and remodel

“We are about living, not just a project or product.” Says Dana King, “homes should work for people.” Dana King Design Build Remodeling excels in cohesive and collaborative design, tackling all aspects of home beyond what most providers do. The team manages the details and eliminates the hassles typical of most home improvement projects. Dana brings passionate professionals with skills and

certifications in WELL Standards for healthy living, Universal Design to make spaces function for a wide range of abilities, Smart-home technology to provide connectivity, and organization to make life seamless

for busy families. Projects range from home furnishings to home additions. They answer the perplexing feasibility questions such as what improvements create the best value, how to phase the projects and options to fund the project.

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COUNTY LIVING

See our new Business & Finance Section which starts on page 53

What’s Inside

H E A LTH

HOME

E X TE R I O R S

12 Advanced Technologies Improve

20 The Green Home Coach – Marla Esser Cloos

32 The Call of the Wild: Chris Siewing

Skin and Hair

21 Make and Keep Garage and

14 Advantages of Ultrasound for Diagnosis

Basement Floors Attractive

of Nature's Re-Creations

34 You Can Have a Garden that Deer Won't Destroy

15 Helping Families with Difficult Care Choices

22 Getting Your Floors to Look Their Best

15 Hypnotherapy Case: Beyond Picky Eating

24 Functional, Attractive Solutions for

16 Forget Quick Results –

Garage Storage

Outdoor Furniture

Get Ready for the Years Ahead

26 The Basement Egress Window

38 Outdoor Living for the Ages

18 An Effective Solution to an

27 Kitchen Cabinets: Refacing Instead

Uncomfortable Problem

of Replacing

19 Breathe Easier Using Salt Room Therapy

28 Waterproof to Remodel Your Basement

36 Save Money by Renewing Your

39 Does Your Home Have Uneven Concrete Surfaces?

28 If Your Home Is Settling, Don't Panic

G E TAWAYS

CO LU M N S

BUSINESS & FINANCE

40 Activities & Events Calendar

8 Random Musings with Gerry Mandel

53 Saving Business Owners and Managers

44 News from Wine Country

47 A Place in the Country Bill Ziercher

46 This Book Should Be in Every Home in

52 On the Road with John Drake Robinson

St. Louis

48 Latinx: A Rich Part of Our Cultural

Time and Money

54 Cold Calling Solution for Busy Sales Reps 56 Excessive Increases for Long-Term Care Insurance? 57 When It Comes Time to Sell Your Business

Landscape

SEE EVEN MORE ON OUR WEBSITE

CO U N T Y L I V I N G M AG . CO M

58 Are Your Tech Devices Slow? Confusing? We Can Help

Reverse Weakness that Comes with Aging:

Now You Can Improve Bone Density, Muscle Strength and Balance. Improving vitality and strength after age 30 has been almost unheard of. At best, we hoped to slow the musculoskeletal atrophy that comes with aging with rigorous exercise and a healthy diet. But there is a way to actually reverse bone loss, increase strength, and improve balance and agility as we age. For 10 years OsteoStrong® has been offering a patented osteogenic loading system in centers across the world, and thousands of people are experiencing the benefits. A tenminute sweat-free session in four different positions — for chest, leg/hips, core and spine - triggers an adaptive flexing response in bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and connective tissues.

Ten-minute session, once a week, provides measurable results. Whether you’re seeking to take your athletic game to the next level, stay as fit as possible as you age, or recover from frail health in your elder years, we all share the need for a strong musculoskeletal system that is the foundation of our vitality. Members of OsteoStrong report stronger bones, increased strength, better posture, better glucose regulation (lower A1c), less back and joint pain, and better balance. ALL of these benefits greatly reduce risk of fracture and injury, which is important for athletes and the elderly alike.

”My Mom had severe osteoporosis, so I needed to change my life to not follow that path. Since starting OsteoStrong I have had a significant increase in my bone density! I also have more stamina, I feel stronger when doing everyday things and have confidence I'm building bone for the future.” –Linda

There are 10 OsteoStrong locations in the St. Louis/St. Charles area. Call the location nearest you to schedule a FREE introductory session for you and your loved ones. Ballwin Chesterfield Chest. Valley Clayton Creve Coeur Ladue O’Fallon St. Peter’s Sunset Hills Telegraph

63011 63017 63005 63105 63141 63124 63368 63376 63127 63129

(636) 697-3902 (636) 220-8080 (314) 300-6655 (314) 541-5661 (314) 300-6902 (314) 502-3402 (636) 238-8696 (636) 685-0144 (314) 501-2002 (314) 300-9851

For more information visit www.OsteoStrong.me

”My wife and I have been doing weekly sessions at OsteoStrong for almost 4 years. I used to complain a lot about back pain and knee pain - but not anymore, and OsteoStrong is the only thing I added to my routine.” –Ronald, 71 years young

COUNTY LIVING VO LU M E 2 2 / E A R LY S P R I N G

PU B LISH E R /E DITOR

For information regarding advertising, call:

Todd Abrams

COU NT Y LIVING PU B LICATIONS

DESIG N + CR E ATIVE DIR EC TION + PRODUC TION

314-432-1171 phone 314-569-3380 fax P.O. Box 411036 St. Louis, MO 63141

Michael Kilfoy, Studio X ACCOU NT E XECUTIVE

ON THE COVER

Carol Kindinger

Located in a quiet neighborhood in Moscow Mills, this stunning backyard fully embodies the modern staycation concept.

Walsworth Fulton

To see this issue and archived articles online with links to resources, visit

DISTRIB UTION DATABASE

COU NT YLIVING MAG .COM

The spacious freeform pool features an expansive tanning ledge, ideal for sunbathing while keeping cool in the water. The three-foot shallow area gradually descends to an eightfoot deep end to accommodate bathers entering the pool via the diving board.

PRINTING

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A raised stone wall traversing the far side of the swimming pool serves as the main focal point and is visible from the interior of the home. The bowed wall supports a sheer descent waterfall, framed on either side by copper radius scuppers. Two fire bowls, one resting on either end column, complete the impressive feature wall. A dark interior pebble finish yields the dramatic effect desired by the homeowners. The pool’s water color will range from medium to dark blue depending on a variety of factors such as sun exposure, water depth, and the viewer’s vantage point. A gas fire pit, clad in the same warm stone used throughout the project, is the perfect gathering place for family and friends to converse on those chilly St. Louis summer evenings. The elegant pool house, built by Heartlands Building Company, offers a restroom along with plenty of additional seating and dining space. Glass accordion doors along the front of the building provide unobstructed panoramic views of the patio and swimming pool. Finally, Flora Design & Landscape, a member of the Baker Pool family of companies, tied the entire space together with a colorful, low-maintenance landscape design. Baker Pool Construction has enjoyed delivering breathtaking projects in the St. Louis area for over 50 years. For more in-depth information, see their ad on page 41, or visit them at www.bakerpoolconstruction.com.

Todd

Michael

Carol

County Living Magazine is published quarterly by County Living Publications and distributed to select homeowners in the St. Louis area. Articles are selected to provide useful information about home, health, travel and recreation. Opinions expressed in articles and editorials are those of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the views of County Living Publications. While every effort is made to assure accuracy, we are not responsible for how information found in County Living Magazine is used. We are very interested in reader comments or suggestions. Correspondence should be sent to the address above or to editor@CountyLivingMag.com. Reproduction of content of this magazine without permission is prohibited. All submitted materials, including images, logos and text for advertising, articles and editorials are assumed to be the property of the contributor, and County Living Publications does not take responsibility for unintentional copyright infringement. County Living Publications has the right to refuse advertising and content not deemed appropriate for this publication. Circulation is verified by U.S. Postal receipts.

// IT’S TIME TO GET ORGANIZED c a b i n e t s • s h e l v i n g & r a c k s • ove r h e a d s to r a g e • f l o o r i n g

C A L L FO R A F R E E 3 D R E N D E R I N G & CO N S U LTATI O N

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Random Musings FROM GERRY MANDEL

GERRY MANDEL writes plays, short stories, essays, blogs and an occasional novel. He also plays blues and boogie, which you can enjoy on Facebook. Enter his name in the Facebook Search.

A Few Words About Writing – and My New Book

R A N D O M

M U S I N G S

CLM

he first short story I ever wrote featured a roach trying to climb up steep, white porcelain walls. Except you didn’t know it was a roach because I wrote it from the roach’s point-of-view. He was in a bathroom sink. I was in junior high school at the time, loved science-fiction, found my mind exploring strange and wonderful worlds. I might be another Ray Bradbury, I thought, a Poet of the Possible. I also liked “funny,” as in Max Schulman, S. J. Perelman, Art Buchwald and Mad comic books. This was another genre that appealed to me. Although at the time, I didn’t even know what a “genre” was.

Now, many words, many stories, many years later, I have a respectable collection of writings. All kinds. They are in my book which has just been published. “GERRY MANDEL SELECTED WRITINGS.” I wanted them to be permanently accessible in a real book printed on paper. Much of what I have written is in digital files, which will disappear someday when the electromagnetic storm engulfs Earth and wipes out all files. Or the technology will change, making the stories inaccessible. Plus, I just like the idea of being able to hold a book in my hands, feel its weight, its texture, and say, “Yep. This is my book.” Looking back over this collection, I realize just how many of them almost wrote themselves, how they were just lying in wait to be released from somewhere in my imagination. Occasionally I’ll read one of my old stories and have no memory of having written it. Like being in the zone.

It’s a little scary, but also very exciting and revealing about how the creative mind works.

that finds its audience and pleases them. Two are high on my list of favorites. One is an essay about my mother, called “Piano Sonata in Four Movements: L’Adieu.” The other is a humor piece, fictional, called “Renegade Chicken.” If I had more space here, I’d offer a sample. The book also holds the first five chapters of my novel, “Shadow and Substance: My Time with Charlie Chaplin.” Also a novelette which, until now, resided only on Amazon Kindle. It’s “The Negro in the Basement.” I am still moved by the memory of how this came to be, a story of values, attitudes, guilt, and changing times. “Selected Writings” is not a finale. My writing continues weekly if not daily. A new novel about Chaplin making “The Great Dictator,” how he faced incredible pressure and risk during a tumultuous time in America. Also, the true story of a man who has lived with ALS for nine years. He says he has been “time stamped.” And, of course, my Random Musings column in County Living Magazine. Publisher Todd Abrams has been extremely supportive of my efforts here. Like many writers, I need deadlines. Todd gives me those deadlines, along with the freedom to pick the subjects. Thanks, Todd. Here comes the commercial. To order my book, send me an email, to 503spidermandel@gmail.com. I’ll mail you a copy, signed if you insist.

Or mail me a check at 503 Taylor Young Writing is something most writers are Drive, Kirkwood 63122. compelled to do. “Not writing” is not an option. I’ve occasionally gone days without Cost is $22, plus $4 mailing. A bargain for writing, and grow increasingly irritable. such literary enjoyment. Something is missing. Until I sit down at my computer - used to be “at my typewriter” “Gerry Mandel writes with a wit, charm, - or with a pen and pad, the mood hangs in and irony that walks with us through the there. It’s been said that being a writer is a outer layers of our sensibilities before it blessing and a curse. True. opens the door to the spirit of the human A writer/friend who has read my book, heart. An authentic voice.” asked me if I had a favorite story. I can – Dennis Fleming, author of honestly say I like them all, some a little “The Girl Who Had No Enemies.” more than others, but believe I did what I set out to do - tell an interesting story

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ince 1991 Aesthetic Design & Build has been building beautiful decks throughout St. Louis and St. Charles Counties. We work with each client to create a unique design that fits their home and lifestyle. Wrap-around custom decks and staircases can be built with a variety of low-maintenance decking and railings.

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Advanced Technologies Provide Improved Appearance and Health for Skin and Hair B Y D R . L A W R E N C E S A M U E L S , D R . S TA C Y BLUM, AND DR. ANNA CLARK

H E A LT H

F I T N E S S

CLM

reakthroughs in technology and dermatologic science in recent years have put new proven tools in the hands of skilled medical specialists, enabling greatly enhanced outcomes in non-surgical body contouring, skin tightening and hair restoration for those with hair loss or thinning hair. In addition, it has improved many cosmetic treatments as well as the treatment of many skin diseases and skin conditions. Here are three of the most important technologies that we employ in our offices every day. LASER, ULTRASONIC, AND RADIOFREQUENCY TREATMENTS are used for conditions

that in years past required surgery or more painful topical treatments, including permanent hair removal that is now quick and easy with minimal discomfort. These high technology laser platforms and robotic instruments allow for elimination of skin discoloration on the face, chest, arms and legs. They also allows non-surgical fat reduction, body contouring, skin tightening and elimination of unsightly blood vessels on the face and extremities. The new laser technology of the LBO laser can treat acne rosacea and its associated redness of the skin.

ADVANCED DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY AND PRECISION ROBOTICS provide

permanent and more natural solutions for hair loss. Your own hair is transplanted into thinning areas where it grows naturally as it did before, creating a natural appearance for your hairline. The Artas IX robot can extract individual hair follicles eliminating the linear scar created by the surgical excision technique which requires sutures to be removed in 10 days after the surgical procedure. The individual hair follicles are examined under the microscope before placing them in thinning or balding

area of the scalp. This creates a totally natural look versus the antiquated plug technique. In addition, we have advance hair scanning technology in order to determine the cause of your hair thinning or shedding ,as there are several treatment modalities to treat hair thinning and baldness. Although there are topical and oral treatments to stimulate hair follicles, the most advanced non-surgical treatment is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections. Your own activated plasma is used is used to stimulate the hair follicles to grow longer and thicker. ADVANCED DIGITAL PLATFORM TECHNOLOGY allows a single power

source to have various handpieces which allow laser treatments, radio frequency treatments, ultrasonic treatments, shock wave therapy and skin pen treatments improving skin tightening, laser hair removal, elimination of brown spots and the treatment of other skin diseases and skin conditions. Whether we are addressing aesthetic goals, treatments of common skin diseases or complex skin conditions, our mission is to deliver superior dermatology treatments and education. You can request a consultation to address your own skin and hair concerns at www.saintlouisderm.com or call 314-576-7343 to find out how you can achieve your best results. SPECIALIST IN DERMATOLOGY AND COSMETIC MEDICINE is a leading dermatology practice in the Midwest located on the campus of St. Luke’s Hospital. From Advanced clinical dermatology treatments to state-of-the-art aesthetic services, their Board Certified Dermatologist who are all Fellows of the American Academy of Dermatology and their knowledgeable staff provide a complete rande of clinical and cosmetic procedures. Dr. Samuels is Chief of Dermatology at St. Luke’s Hospital, a member of the teaching faculty at Washington University Medical School, and is a Fellow of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery. Every member of their practice is dedicated to ensuring that their patients receive the highest level of expert, compassionate care.

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For Diagnosing Injuries and Other Musculoskeletal Conditions... CONSIDER THE ADVANTAGES OF ULTR ASOUND OVER TR ADITIONAL IMAGING METHODS .

BY JA SO N COX M D

JASON COX MD is owner and principal radiologist at Ultrasound First. Their board-certified and fellowship trained radiologists have years of experience and are always available and ready to assist. Appointments are available on the same day or the next business day in most cases. They are located in Creve Coeur at 522 North New Ballas Rd, Suite 270.

f you have been sent by your doctor for an MRI or CAT scan, you know that they can be cramped, uncomfortable and loud. But for many imaging needs there’s an alternative: ultrasound. It is quick and comfortable, and in some cases provides information those other technologies don’t.

ABOUT ULTRASOUND Ultrasound imaging uses sound waves to produce pictures of different muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves and joints. A small probe and gel are placed on the skin above the problem area, and high frequency sound waves travel through the gel and into the body. From sound waves that bounce back a

If you need an ultrasound examination or any of their other services, you can book an appointment online at https:// ultrasoundfirst.intakeq.com/ booking, or you can call the office at 314-782-2034.

computer creates an image. The process is entirely safe, and the patient does not have to worry about radiation as they would, for instance, with an x-ray. Besides the safety and comfort factors, there are other advantages to ultrasound imaging. Unlike an MRI or CAT scan, where you must remain perfectly still, ultrasound captures motion. This is critical for diagnosing conditions such as rotator cuff injuries, where the problem is usually inhibited movement. Ultrasound also provides instant feedback, and is considerably less expensive than the alternatives. Diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasounds require no preparation, and the minimally invasive procedures performed at ultrasound first require minimal recovery time. USES FOR ULTRASOUND We use ultrasound for common conditions that include shoulder impingement, rotator cuff, muscle or tendon tear, arthritis, bursitis, joint separation, cysts, tumors, tennis or golfers’ elbow, tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, hip pain, plantar fasciitis and much more. We also provide ultrasound guided procedures such as steroid and other injections, rotator cuff interventions, ablations, cyst aspiration, biopsy, aspirations and abscess drainage.

Dr. Ayse Kilfoy was chosen by her peers as one of the Top Dentists in the St. Louis area.

hen St. Louis Magazine surveyed St. Louis area dentists on who they thought were the best dentists in the region, Dr. Kilfoy of Woodlawn Dental was up there at the top of the list.

She has been providing healthy, beautiful smiles to the O’Fallon area for over 20 years. “Whether a patient just needs some minor dental work or some long-term cosmetic improvements, we love to be a part of making changes that matter. My greatest pleasure is to see the smile on a patient’s face when we’ve completed their care. For some, it’s like they’re smiling for the first time.” Come by and take a tour. And find out how much Woodlawn Dental has to offer you and your family.

Woodlawn Dental Dr. Ayse Kilfoy, DMD 608 Woodlawn Avenue O’Fallon, MO 63366

636-240-9211 www.woodlawndental.com

Helping Families with Difficult Care Choices

FOR E LDE RLY OR SPECIAL N E E DS LOVE D ON ES BY M A R I A M I S KOV I C M S W, LC S W, C- A S WC M

f you or someone you know has gone through the process of choosing care options for a loved one, you know how bewildering and time-consuming these very consequential decisions can be: Is the need temporary, or long-term? Is it best to stay in the home they know and love with home care support, or move to a facility providing around-the-clock care? How do you know which senior living community is best for your family member? What are options for paying for care? PROFESSIONAL CARE MANAGEMENT is a holistic, client-centered approach

to caring for older adults, disabled, or mentally ill persons. The goal is to put safety and security first while improving the client’s quality of life and reducing family stress through planning and problem-solving, ed-

ucation and advocacy, and family caregiver coaching. CARE MANAGERS assist in actively con-

sidering, evaluating and monitoring these options, as well as assisting with medical care. They identify programs and services to engage clients and provide social interaction. They consult with elder or disability attorneys, accountants or Power of Attorney and review bill paying. And they can source and manage entitlements – Federal, state and local programs to provide financial assistance. A CARE PLAN tailored for each indi-

vidual’s circumstances is prepared after a comprehensive assessment. Local, cost-effective resources are identified and engaged as needed. The plan may be modified, in consultation with client and family, as circumstances change.

MARIA MISKOVIC is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in home care, long-term care, hospital management and case management for over 25 years. She is the founder and Principal Care Manager of CARE CHOICE CARE MANAGEMENT, LLC. Maria mentors and oversees a team of Masters-level professionals who assess, educate, facilitate, and manage services for families with elderly or disabled loved ones, helping them navigate the healthcare system. Care Choice is one of the leading practices of its kind in the Midwest. Maria has a passion for assisting clients in maintaining a high quality of life, enabling them to be as self-sufficient and independent as possible. For a confidential discussion with Maria or her team about your loved one, you can call Care Choice Care Management at 636-288-1764 or email info@carechoicestl.com.

H Y P N OTH E R APY CA S E STU DY # 6 :

Beyond Picky Eating

BY J OAN K R U EG E R , CE R TI FI E D H Y P N OTH E R AP I ST

Many people have problems eating. No, I don’t mean eating too much. I mean having a limited selection of foods they can and will eat, or not being able to eat. ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disor-

JOAN KRUEGER has a private practice with an office in Kirkwood. Many individuals have achieved their behavior change goals, both personal and professional, through guidance they have received in her hypnosis sessions. You can contact Joan to discuss how hypnosis could help you achieve positive change in your own life by calling her at (314) 962-7558, emailing her at jfkhypnosis@charter.net or visiting her website www.jfkhypnosis.com.

der) is an eating disorder characterized by highly selective eating habits, disturbed feeding patterns or both. There are people who won’t eat certain types of foods because of their texture, color or smell. Then, some people won’t eat foods that touch other foods. There are also people who lose their sense of taste for some reason. All of these things go beyond being a picky eater. There’s something going on with that individual that won’t allow them either physically or mentally to eat. I recently worked with a woman who had a stroke about six months before and had gradually lost her sense of taste. Her husband called me to find out if hypnosis could help bring back her sense of taste. He was extremely concerned because nothing seemed appealing to her, she had lost 80 pounds and she was sinking into depression.

There are never any guarantees. However, I did tell him that to a very large degree, a person’s subconscious mind does control their physical body. During the session I gave suggestions for her mind to create some changes in her physical body. I gave her a suggestion that she was able to stop the circulation to her foot and would begin to feel that prickly tingly feeling like when it begins to fall asleep, and that worked wonderfully for her. After a few other suggestions to get her mind to realize that it was controlling her physical body, I had her imagine eating certain types of foods and being able to taste and savor the delicious flavors. She was able to do that, even though she could not imagine the taste of food before we began the session. After I brought her out of hypnosis, she told her husband that chicken sounded really good to her, and she was looking forward to having it for dinner. He almost began to cry. There are so many ways that your subconscious mind can help you. Even with things that it seems like there are no answers for. If you’re struggling with something and would like to find out if hypnosis can help you, please feel free to call.

BRET KLIETHERMES is owner of STRONG HUMAN FITNESS LLC, a personal training company that offers Complete Fitness Programs to help his clients reach their personal health and fitness goals. Bret has a Bachelor of Science in Health & Wellness Promotion from Missouri State University, is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist and Professional Member of the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Bret works with clients at The Fitness Partner, Inc., a boutique gym located at 14528 South Outer 40 Road, Chesterfield 63017. For 25 years, owner/operator Randy Stone has offered a more private alternative to the large box gyms that are often noisy and overcrowded. Now Bret has purchased The Fitness Partner, and Randy continues to train his clients there. Bret offers both private and semi-private training to fit all budgets and schedules. For a no-obligation, no-pressure consultation to discuss your goals and programs, you can call Bret at 314-6919040, email bret@stronghumanfitness.com or visit www.stronghumanfitness.com.

CLM

H O M E

THE FITNESS PARTNE R GYM IS NOW OPE N , AND THE Y ARE OBSE RVING ST. LOUIS COUNT Y HEALTH GUIDE LINES TO PROTECT 16 CLIE NTS AND STAFF.

HEALTH AND FITNESS FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE

Forget claims of quick results. Get ready for the years ahead. BY B RET KLIETH E RM ES

s we age, the natural tendencies are muscle atrophy, unhealthy weight gain around the middle, joint aches, loss of flexibility and balance. It is important to know that these are not inevitable, but rather are the effects of sedentary lifestyle, lack of exercise, poor nutrition and injuries.

In 2019, the American College of Sports Medicine, the American Cancer Society, and 15 other groups put together new guidance that exercise can contribute to the prevention of bladder, breast, colon, esophagus, kidney, stomach, and uterine cancer. Regular exercise does this by reducing inflammation, keeping weight under control and boosting the immune system. Face it: what you really want is to be healthy, toned, at controlled weight and safe from injury for the rest of your life. The good news is that you can. The only way to get there, though, is to be on a consistent exercise and nutrition program for the rest of your life. There’s no way around that. So, what you really need right now is not a quick fix, but a place and a trainer that can really get you the start you need that will be a direct path to your long-term goals. Think of the place where you exercise. Big health clubs and gyms may have lots of equipment, but are they really inviting places

with members who are familiar to you and encourage you for what you want to achieve? A more intimate, familiar atmosphere with people you know can really make a difference. And a personal trainer who really gets to know you and your goals and custom designs an exercise and nutrition program to get you there can make all the difference in the world. CASE STUDY – TED SCHOLTZ

Ted Scholtz is a 66-year-old software executive who retired at the end of 2021. Very active in sports when he was younger, 28 years ago Ted embarked on a serious fitness program focused on frequent exercise sessions at The Fitness Partner, as well as running, basketball, biking and roller blading. Ted says, “I came into the Fitness Partner knowing no one and zip about strength training, but over the years I have packed on 15 pounds of muscle and the strength training really helps my cardio activities. I have also made several friends for life - The Fitness Partner is like family.” This has enabled him to hike many Colorado “fourteeners,” several trips up Half Dome & Manitou Steps, in and out of the Grand Canyon multiple times, and hike many trails in 40 of our National Parks. And to indulge his love of good cuisine, especially Italian food, while keeping his weight what it was when he was in high school. Check out the photo of Ted and me on our hike last fall going Rim to Rim at the Grand Canyon.

STONE FLOOR AND COUNTER RESTORATION The natural stone experts at MarbleLife can restore and maintain the natural beauty of your stone floors, counters and showers just like new!

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FROM DULL CONCRETE TO BEAUTIFUL ARTISTIC FLOORS

Have MARBLELIFE EnduraCrete add beauty and value to your home by transforming your concrete floors! Transform dull gray concrete floors to vibrant colors and designs at a fraction of the price of new tiling or colored concrete. Whether refinishing a basement or garage floor, colored stains coupled with a polished or satin finish provide endless possibilities.

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BETSY CLEMENS MD is owner and medical principal at Midwest Hemorrhoid Treatment Center, located at 450 North New Ballas Road in Creve Coeur. Dr. Clemens has specialized in evaluating and treating anal/rectal disorders for over 10 years and has performed over 28,000 IRC procedures. Prior to opening MWHTC, Dr. Clemens had a very busy family medicine practice and she remains board certified in family medicine. She has a comprehensive understanding of the body and uses a systematic approach to the diagnostic and treatment process. She received her medical degree from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine and completed her residency at St. Johns Mercy Medical Center. For an appointment at the Midwest Hemorrhoid Treatment Center, you can call 314-384-5710. To learn more about them and about IRC, you can visit mwhtc-stl.com.

An Effective Solution for an Uncomfortable Problem INFR ARED COAGUL ATION IS A PAINLESS , L ASTING TREATMENT FOR HEMORRHOIDS .

BY B ETSY CLE M E NS , M D

lmost everyone suffers from hemorrhoids at some time in their lives. Hemorrhoids are normal “cushions” of tissue filled with blood vessels at the end of the rectum. If enlarged, they can cause unpleasant symptoms. If left untreated, surgery may be required, which can be painful and require days to weeks of recovery.

Treatment options depend on the size of the hemorrhoids and severity of symptoms. Topical medications can relieve itching and shrink mild hemorrhoids. But for enlarged or bleeding hemorrhoids, options for longer-term relief have been limited to sclerotherapy, involving injections similar to those for varicose veins, rubber band ligation, stapling and surgery. Each of these can have varying

results, cause days of discomfort and possibly cause complications, some of which are severe. But another option is available, an outpatient procedure called infrared coagulation (IRC). It provides long-term relief and is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure that many studies have shown to be the optimal non-operative treatment of choice. It is fast, effective, well tolerated and has fewer complications than other options. The IRC treatment focuses infrared light on hemorrhoidal tissues. This coagulates blood vessels, causing the hemorrhoid to shrink and retract. The IRC procedure does not require anesthesia or special preparation. Patients may feel a slight warm sensation, but it usually is painless, and most patients return to work the same day. IRC received FDA clearance in 1984 and is covered by most insurance plans.

Finest Custom Table Pads at Factory-Direct Prices The way to insure perfect table pads is for the provider to visit your home to accurately measure and show you sample colors and textures to match your table and décor. Custom Table Pads, an independent St. Louis dealer, provides the finest custom American-made table pads at factory-direct prices. They measure at your home or business, and show you a choice of 23 vinyl tops and 5 velvet bottoms. Perfect fit is guaranteed. Pads are heat resistant to 550o, moisture and warp resistant. Patented hidden magnets minimize separation and slippage on your table.

CUSTOM TABLE PADS OF ST. LOUIS Phone: 314-752-5577 Email: thetablepadman@gmail.com

314-470-6858

Breathe Easier Using Salt Room Therapy

hen Clay Juracsik started The St. Louis Salt Room over 10 years ago, it was partially as a therapy for his daughter. She had severe asthma and he saw that it was taking a toll on her health. He was looking for something that could help her and make her less dependent on the drugs she needed to take. Clay had studied halotheraphy and learned of its many benefits, and even traveled to Europe and Russia to visit other salt spas to learn everything he could about them.

Her breathing improved quickly and after several months found that she was able to cut the need for her meds by 90%. “Halotherapy has made her lungs much healthier. It made a huge difference. It made me more of a believer than I already was,” Clay said. “She hasn't needed medication in a long time.” A HISTORY OF BENEFIT

Halotherapy chambers have been popular in Europe and are now seeing popularity in the United States. Salt has been used for thousands of years to treat a long list of common ailments.

March 22 - April 3

It was discovered in the mid-1800s that people who worked in the salt mines of Poland and surrounding countries had a remarkably low rate of respiratory illnesses. Soon a clinic was placed within one of these salt mines, which is still in operation today. In order to simulate the therapeutic effects within salt mines, spas emulating salt caves were built on the surface, where people would visit routinely to breathe the air which was saturated with beneficial salt particles and negatively-charged ions. Recently, engineers created a device called a Halo-generator, which not only simulates the conditions in salt mines, but accelerates the effect. A salt aerosol fills the air with tiny particles, which have been clinically proven to deliver the most optimal results. FOR ADULTS & CHILDREN

Halotherapy is beneficial to people of all ages, and actually children often experience the greatest results. Salt Therapy is recommended for those who suffer from respiratory ailments like Asthma, Bronchitis, Sinusitis, and even allergies. Many people use it to lower their stress and relieve fatigue and depression. Athletes use it to optimize their breathing and improve circulation. ST. LOUIS’ FIRST SALT SPA

The St. Louis Salt Room was the first Salt Spa in the Midwest (fifth the in the U.S.) and has many regular clients, including some doctors, nurses and other medical personnel. They are located at 2739 Sutton Blvd. in Maplewood, just 3 blocks south of Manchester. To learn more about how the St. Louis Salt Room can help you, visit www.mysaltspa.com. You can call (314) 647-2410 to schedule an appointment.

April 5-9 Metrotix.com 314-534-1111

The Green Home Coach BY MARL A ESSE R CLOOS

MARLA ESSER CLOOS, NAHB Master Certified Green Professional, Wellness Within Your Walls Certified Professional and LEED AP, is the principal of Green Home Coach where she uses her "superpowers" to help home professionals and inhabitants to discover and create better homes for healthier, more comfortable lives. Making simple swaps to green and sustainable choices helps create better homes – a bit at a time in existing homes or all at once for new and remodeled homes. Find more at GreenHomeCoach. com and @greenhomecoach on FB and IG

Update Your Home with Health and Wellness in Mind

ur homes have become everything for us! Our homes have served us for work, school, connecting, exercising, cooking and more – especially in the winter months! Re-imagining what our homes do for us and spending more time in them, has showed us things we’d like to change. With homes in tight supply in most markets, renovating or remodeling is often the best route to change. RENOVATION OR REMODEL?

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Renovations update the look and feel of a space – such as replacing faucets and lighting and new paint and flooring. Renovations offer opportunities to improve spaces by choosing better materials, finishes and fixtures.

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Remodels alter the design or structure to better align the space to the needs of the people living there. Removing a wall to make a larger kitchen would be a remodel. Adding a room, like a sunroom, on that now larger kitchen would be an even larger remodel. “Big remodels” affecting exterior walls or roof, offer opportunities to upgrade the building envelope through better, healthier materials as the structure is put back together. Upgrading air sealing, insulation, windows/doors, and even foundations and roofing can improve how the home functions. Sometimes a simple answer is the easiest. For example, replacing or rearranging

poorly placed windows that let in too much heat and/or sun is not the only option. Well-chosen and well-placed window coverings can make a huge difference. For windows in direct sun, exterior solar shades may be a great solution. We installed a solar shade on a picture window in a 3-story stairwell and in summer it cooled the space to a comfortable level! Both remodeling and renovation offer opportunities to improve the health, safety and comfort provided by the home. BETTER, HEALTHIER OPTIONS

Choose finishes, fixtures and materials with natural ingredients or responsible use of ingredients that may have longer term effects. Reducing VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and other toxins found in many home finishes and materials is a first step to better indoor air quality and better breathing. Low or no VOC paints, flooring, cabinets, adhesives, stains, and glues are readily available and help reduce the VOCs and toxins that may be sticking around your home. Products and materials should be chosen that do not contain formaldehyde. Many additional options await! A great resource is the Homebuyers tab of the Home Performance Counts website https://homeperformancecounts.info. I’m happy to recommend other resources as well. WALLS AND CEILINGS AND PAINT

Ceilings and walls influence the way that light plays in your home, an important part of health and wellness. Light-colored ceilings and walls help to magnify the light.

Choosing safer paint, preferably with no or low VOCs, is one way to improve indoor air quality. Independent, 3rd party certifications, such as GreenGuard, help to choose a healthier paint. Or choose Recolor® – a recycled, low VOC paint found at Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore (and other places). FLOORS, CARPETS AND FLOOR COVERINGS

Choosing floor coverings takes a little homework. Carpets and longshag rugs tend to be dust-traps, so they are not the best option for people with allergies. Hard surface flooring has become popular for the ease of cleaning; be sure to choose materials that are healthier and safer. Adding area rugs made from natural or sustainable materials helps to soften and define living areas. Dark-colored floors can help hold heat in during colder months. A design or home professional who understands passive heating and cooling can help take advantage of the properties of colors and materials. BENEFITS OF REMODELING FOR YOUR HEALTHIER LIFE AND COMMUNITY

Your design choices can make your home a healthier, more comfortable space, and add to your overall quality of life, while also impacting your community. Some features of a healthier, greener home can minimize strain on landfills, water treatment plants, and power plants along with other parts of local infrastructure. Remodeling with health in mind also contributes to the resale value of homes. Many home buyers are willing to pay more for a home with healthier, green components because they realize the extra value they offer. Remember, even the small steps make a big difference.

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You have probably heard of and seen epoxy coatings, but may not be familiar with a newer product called polyaspartic. It is similar in appearance, but there are advantages of the newer material, which until now has been used primarily in commercial settings. Polyaspartic coatings were first devel-

oped for steel bridges for their corrosion-resistant properties. In addition to greater strength, two advantages of polyaspartic concrete coatings are their quick drying time and nearly odorless emissions after application. These innovations make them more versatile than traditional epoxy. The coating has a clear, glossy finish and decorative color chips are added for a bolder look and traction materials are added for a non-slip texture. Unlike epoxy, polyaspartic is always formulated to be colorfast, so the color won’t fade or yellow, even after extended exposure to UV rays. That means your garage will keep looking great longer.

Archway Industrial Coatings, Inc. is a St. Louis-based company with many years of experience in quality concrete coatings, both commercial and residential. They are leaders in polyaspartic flooring solutions that withstand the test of time, while meeting their customers’ installation schedules and budgets. Archway is committed to doing the highest quality work at the lowest cost. Their installers are employed directly by Archway, the highly trained “Dream Team” craftsmen who know the difference between a job and a job well done. You can now take advantage of their Early Spring discounts. For a free estimate you can call them at 636-946-6464 and learn more about them at www.archwaycoatings.com.

H O M E

f you are tired of your old, gross concrete garage or basement floor, you should know about the new generation of attractive coatings that go right over your concrete to give you a fresh, attractive shiny surface that stays looking great because it is much easier to maintain than a dull concrete surface.

Polyaspartic coatings can be applied in a variety of weather and temperature conditions, so you won’t need to wait. They cure within 30 minutes to an hour vs. about 16 hours for epoxy, so you can more quickly get back to your life. Polyaspartic dries hard, but maintains some flexibility, which helps keep a stain, abrasion, chip and scratch-resistant finish. It is also chemical, mold, mildew and salt resistant.

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The Newer, Better Way to Make and Keep Garage and Basement Floors Attractive

Getting Your Floors to Look Their Best SOLUTIONS OFFERED BY MARBLELIFE® CAN GREATLY IMPROVE APPEARANCE AND AVOID MORE COSTLY REPLACEMENT.

lain old concrete on porches, pool decks, in garages or basements is dull looking, especially if it has stains, is chipped or cracked. The unprotected surface is also subject to further staining and damage. The good news is that plain concrete can be made to look really spectacular. CONCRETE CAN LOOK BEAUTIFUL

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MARBLELIFE EnduraCrete can densify, seal, polish, grind, color and design concrete to look as good as premium flooring, and to be much easier to maintain than untreated concrete. Look at the example at upper right on this page.

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Combining innovative design with knowledge and skill, surface preparation and application techniques, deliver uniquely beautiful results. EnduraCrete has carved a unique and prominent position in the area of decorative concrete. EnduraCrete services can transform your dull and dusty concrete area into an attractive, functional medium that “endures” the test of time. And polished, shiny concrete floors do not need to be slippery. EnduraCrete has a variety of ways to enhance the anti-slip properties of your concrete surfaces…without sacrificing design or appearance. TILE AND GROUT SHOULD LOOK – AND BE – CLEAN AND HEALTHY

Stained grout and tile not only are frus-

trating to clean, but they can harbor dirt and bacteria that are unhealthy for families and pets. The problem is often that if your shower or floor’s seal or grout fails, it is soaking up dirt and bacteria with each mopping. Surface dirt, spilled food, or other accidents are dissolved into the mop water and allowed to soak into the grout with each pass of the mop. You want to do more than make your floor look better. Removing surface oils and dirt is simply the first step to addressing the root cause to dull and dingy tile. Solving the problem means restoring a new, uniform color appearance for tile and grout, and guaranteeing a healthier floor. Marblelife restores that clean gloss appearance with an inorganic surface treatment that will not harbor mold or mildew and provides a further layer of protection across your grout lines. STONE FLOORS NEED PERIODIC MAINTENANCE

Marble, granite, terrazzo, limestone, travertine and other natural stone are luxurious architectural elements. These quality materials provide refined surfaces for your home, whether in the foyer, living room, kitchen, bathroom or fireplace. But homeowners can diminish the natural beauty of these surfaces by failing to properly maintain them. Natural stone is a strong and durable material. However, it’s not indestructible. It is still susceptible to stains, spills and damages from everyday occurrences like steady foot traffic and even the use of inappropri-

ate cleaning products. A little pebble caught in a guest’s shoe sole can cause scratches all over the floor. The good news is that when marble and other natural stone surfaces are scratched or stained, they can regain their natural lustrous appearance with professional cleaning, restoration and protection. Whether it’s a marble or granite floor cleaning or shower, vanity or countertop restoration, with proper care and maintenance, the potential for future damage can be minimized. WOOD FLOORS CAN LOOK LIKE NEW

Wood floors can be restored, whatever the issues are. Dull floors with no scratches may have wax buildup, trapping dirt and yellowing over time. Wax can be removed with a professional cleaning. If the floors are just lightly worn, with wear within the protective finish, floors can be screened and re-coated, in most cases in one day. Damaged, heavily worn or deeply scratched floors call for full sanding, re-staining and re-sealing. This is a multi-day process, as the stain must dry before the first seal coat can be applied. Regardless of what problems you may encounter with your concrete, tile, stone or wood floor surfaces, there is a solution. To contact a company that specializes in these surfaces, you can call the professionals at MARBLELIFE St. Louis at 888-995-3040, or visit their website marblelife-stlouis.com.

CABINETRY The next garage storage consideration is cabinetry. Garage storage cabinets are the most secure and accessible solution for a crowded garage. They eliminate clutter and help to convert a messy garage into an attractive and useable space. Garage cabinets can be used to store lawn and garden supplies, tools, sports equipment, workbenches, trashcans, even golf bags.

Storage Solutions for a Functional, Attractive Garage

TRANSFORM THE MOST CLUTTERED ROOM IN YOUR HOUSE

SOLVING THE GARAGE PROBLEM he garage is the most cluttered and messy room in most homes. Now more than just a place to park vehicles, it carries all the overflow of stuff from the rest of the house. In effect, the garage has become a large disorganized and overstuffed cabinet. And because most garages are not really designed as storage space, it is inevitable that they become quite cluttered, crowded and disorderly. Fortunately, with garage organization planning and the help of some clever storage solutions, your garage clutter problem can be readily solved. You can have custom systems in your garage to utilize walls, ceiling and floor to maximize usable space and order.

OVERHEAD STORAGE

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H E A LT H

F I T N E S S

One very practical solution is overhead garage storage. The lofts or overhead racks usually are lightweight but heavy-duty metal frame that can carry

moderate loads and bulky items. They are suspended from the ceiling, which has clear advantages. By freeing up the garage floor from clutter, you have space for more easily parking cars, a work or hobby area and heavier items that should be stored on the floor. Another advantage of overhead storage is easy accessibility. Seldom used or seasonal items like holiday décor are stored overhead out of the way and easily reached when you need them. Overhead garage compartments also keep potentially hazardous items out of children's reach. And now you can access your garage storage with a touch of a button. New overhead racks utilize Bluetooth motors that smoothly lift and lower your items through an app on your smartphone. There's no longer a need to get out a ladder to grab heavy items stored up top.

Common household chemicals and other hazardous substances can also be safely stored in secure cabinets. The proper cabinets can also protect workshop tools and supplies from moisture and dust. Lockable garage cabinets can keep dangerous items away from children. It will also protect your personal belongings when you leave your garage open. ATTRACTIVE GARAGE FLOOR OPTIONS And once everything is up off the floor, so you can actually see it, consider a more attractive floor than oil and paint-stained concrete. Epoxy floors have the look of granite, are durable and resist oil and other stains. Flooring tiles are available in a variety of colors and textures and can be used to create custom patterns. CALL THE PROFESSIONALS Like a custom kitchen or bath, there are advantages of complete garage storage and flooring designed and installed by professionals. The Organized Garage of St. Louis offers the most attractive, durable and customizable shelves, racks, cabinets and flooring available. Their 3D Rendering service will give you an accurate depiction of what your finished garage remodel will look like. Trained professionals will create your perfect garage with their 3D design software, a complimentary service that requires zero money or obligation. For a free consultation, you can call The Organized Garage at 314-914-0009 or email them at theorganizedgarage@gmail. com. You can also learn more at their website www.GarageSolutionsStLouis.com.

Call or Email for a Risk-free, No Obligation Consultation!

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RESTORE & MAINTAIN THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF YOUR FLOORS, COUNTERS & SHOWERS

nathan.stevens@schooleymitchell.com www.schooleymitchell.com/nstevens

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The Basement Egress Window

inishing your basement knowledge, tools, or extra force beyond that is the most efficient way required for a normal window. to add useable space to But don’t just think of the basement egress your home. If you have window as a requirement. It can also add or are planning sleeping natural light and ventilation and with an rooms downstairs, you expanded window well it can be an attractive need to make sure that there are two exits for feature, with flowers and emergencies. If your home plants on the terraced does not have a walk-out steps. The overall basement, this usually ADD SAFET Y, enhancements of safety, requires an escape, or egress APPEAL AND light, ventilation and window. more attractive appearVALUE TO YOUR It is important to know your ance add to the value of local residential building HOME . your home. codes for egress. St. Louis One company that is County building permit expert in structural requirements state that basement improvements all basement bedrooms is Woods Basement must have one window for Systems. They will be emergency escape with a sill no more than happy to give you a free estimate to install a 44 inches above the floor and a minimum basement egress window in your home. You clear opening area of 5.0 square feet. The can call them at 866-735-1890 or learn more emergency escape window must be operable at betterbasementvalue.com. from the inside without need for special

THE SMART CHOICE FOR UPDATING YOUR KITCHEN

Consider Refacing Instead of Replacing

f you’re looking for a fresh new look for your kitchen, you may not need to go to the expense and mess of tearing out and replacing your old cabinets. If they are structurally sound, you can get a completely new look in a much less time and at a fraction of the cost by refacing all visible surfaces of the cabinets instead of building new ones.

PLENTY OF OPTIONS TO CHOOSE FROM You will have literally hundreds of door styles and colors to choose from, and many options to explore. A few of the most popular options include crown molding, pull out storage in the base cabinets, glass door fronts, and under-

cabinet dimmable LED lighting. Ask about the build-up option that allows us to add to the top of your cabinet to make a standard 30” cabinet into a 42” tall wall cabinet. Custom counter tops and tile backsplash combine to offer a complete package. A totally new and updated kitchen. ADVANTAGES OF REFACING Cabinet refacing provides a neat, clean installation, and is usually less than half the cost of a total tear out remodel. In most cases the cabinets can be refaced, counter top replaced, and a new backsplash installed in one week. Many of us have friends that have had total tear out remodels. Ask them how long it took for the remodel. Then ask the cost.

HOW IT WORKS

Classic Kitchen Refacing LLC has been the St. Louis area’s leader in cabinet refacing for years. They can help you make all the decisions in design and selection of coordinating countertops and hardware to give your kitchen a completely new look. You can call them for a free in-home estimate at 314-470-5010.

In refacing, doors are replaced and all exposed surface are covered with matching ¼ inch hardwood or panels. Additional cabinets can be added. With all new doors, new soft close hinges and all new handles or knobs, your kitchen will be completely updated.

HUGE EARLY SPRING DISCOUNT!

SAVE $200 to $500 Savings based on project size. Not valid for jobs in progress. Limit 1 coupon per job. Expires April 30, 2022.

OLD, GROSS GARAGE OR BASEMENT FLOORS?

We Make Concrete Floors More Attractive than New! Our Decorative Polyaspartic Flake is a permanent and durable resurfacing product available in many colors that can be applied directly over existing concrete – NO NEED TO REPLACE! What makes Archway different: Our Dream Team foremen have 11-16+ years experience installing garage floors.

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE TRUSTED SINCE 1987

636-946-6464

WWW.ARCHWAYCOATINGS.COM

Waterproof Surfaces Transform Your Basement into Finished Living Space You Can Enjoy

f you have been hesitant to remodel your basement to more livable space for your family because of dampness and discomfort, there is a set of solutions that you should know about. The EverLast System from Total Basement Finishing. Their wall panels, flooring, and ceiling tiles are all specially designed for comfort and beauty in the basement. All EverLast products are warrantied to resist water, moisture, and mold. They provide insulating qualities, dampen noise, and can be customized to fit your basement

finishing decor. EverLast wall panels provide solid, durable and long-lasting surfaces. They come with 2 ½ inch high-density foam insulation, ½ inch of hard cement board, and a decorative vinyl covering that will never need to be painted. EverLast flooring isolates your floor surface from the cold, hard, damp concrete, making basement floors dryer and more comfortable. Total Basement Finishing has a ceiling system uniquely suited for basements. Their drop ceiling tiles are non-sagging and mold resistant and come with a 30-year warranty. You can transform your

unfinished, or previously finished basement into a comfortable living space with the award-winning Total Basement Finishing basement remodeling system installed by Woods Basement Systems, Inc. They are the highest-rated, most reviewed contractor in their industry and your source for “All Things Basementy.” Their experts will give you a free estimate for improving your basement at your home. You can call Woods Basement Systems at 866-735-1890 to discuss your basement remodeling plan with their specialists or learn more about their services at betterbasementvalue.com.

If Your Home is Settling, Don’t Panic. UNDERSTAND THE CAUSES, AND WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT.

F H O M E

oundation problems can affect your home’s safety, appearance, and value. If you have wall or floor cracks, bowing walls or doors and windows that don’t close as they should, these are signs that your home may be settling.

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WHAT CAUSES SETTLEMENT?

Settlement is the movement your home experiences when changes in the soil below cause it to no longer be able to support the weight of your home, or parts of it. This can be soil that is drying and shrinking, usually after long droughts; soil that remains wet and softens, usually from heavy rain or flooding where there is poor drainage; or compression of poorly compacted fill soil, often where new building lots are developed.

Even if you haven’t seen changes in your home recently, more settlement may occur. Continuing wet and dry cycles can cause soil changes, and settlement is not over unless steps are taken to fix the problem. SOLUTIONS THAT WORK

The most effective way to fix a settling home is to pier it. Steel push piers are driven deep to bedrock or a stable soil layer. They can be installed inside or outside your home to

lift it back to its original position, closing cracks and improving the operation of doors and windows. The solution is quick, and the problem is solved. On lighter structures such as stoops or decks, a helical pier or screw pile may be more effective because the structure may not be heavy enough to drive push piers to a sufficient depth. If you see cracks in walls or floors, inside or out, or doors or windows that don’t close as they should, don’t delay doing something about it. These signs of settlement may get worse if you ignore them. You can call Woods Basement Systems, the highest-rated, most reviewed contractor in their industry, for a free inspection. Their experts can restore your home to safe, functional condition. You can call Woods Basement Systems at 866-735-1890, or learn more at betterbasementvalue.com.

Oxygène Landscape Design

We Design & Create Outdoor Spaces Inspired for Every Season. We approach each project from an artistic position, providing site-specific designs to improve your outdoor living experience. We create designs specific to the personality of your home and property. Our Design & Build Services: Landscape Designs: Partial or Entire Property Retaining Walls

Patios & Fire Pits Decks Fencing: Wood & Aluminum

Jamey Edgerton Mobile: 314.773.9208 Jamey@OxygeneDesigns.com More about us: www.OxygeneDesigns.com

Bringing West Coast Vibes & Designs to Mid-West Outdoor Living

Don’t Replace – Reface Your Kitchen and Save!

Cabinet Refacing * Custom Countertops * Tile Backsplash

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A Full Kitchen Remodeling Expires 4/30/22

Refacing costs less than half of tear out remodel. Hundreds of door styles and colors to choose from. Add a custom counter top and tile backsplash for a totally updated kitchen.

Call now for a FREE in-home Design Consultation and Quote

314-470-5010

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THE CALL OF THE WILD:

Chris Siewing of Nature’s Re-Creations

Most of Chris’ clients connect with him on a deeper, almost spiritual level. They’re drawn to wants his customers nature and understand to appreciate and appreciate the how his work has attention to detail when transformed and constructing the most improved over the natural-looking ponds years. that no one would Chris’s goal isn’t to ever guess are created be the biggest water by mortal man. Chris feature installer. admits that every new Rather, he wants pond he installs is his to be the best, and favorite. Although truth for him that means be told, his personal creating ponds and recreation pond is truly Creating ponds and waterfalls that look the one he enjoys most waterfalls that look as though Mother and spends as much as though Mother Nature made them free time as possible Nature made them herself. He admits swimming with his fish. herself. to being a bit of a It whisks him back to nut when it comes to the days of his youth and selecting and placing the great enjoyment he stone and only uses naturally weathered received exploring all of nature’s treasures. stone, avoiding rocks that were blasted Chris’s hard work and ambition, along from a quarry. Fortunately for Chris, he with the trust and support of Tara, paid works closely with stone pickers who off after leaving the mowing and landscape know how the stones came out of the business behind. Chris became a respected ground. Chris places the rock back into Certified Aquascape Contractor and in his features in the same way, as though 2012 received the ultimate compliment, the they had never been moved. Stone is his highly coveted Aquascape Artist of the paint that’s brushed onto the canvas of a Year award. backyard before finishing his water feature To discuss a water feature project in your masterpiece. yard, you can contact Chris Siewing A signature touch that Chris likes to at Nature’s Re-Creations. Their phone employ in pond design and construction is number is 636-223-2330. Check out their what he calls “choke points.” It’s an area in gallery of projects on Facebook.com/ the yard that you can’t get around without NaturesReCreations or om interacting with the pond. It might be a www.Re-CreateNature.com.

L A N D S C A P E S

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A R TI CLE BY AQ UA SC A P E

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hris clearly remembers the day his wife Tara wanted to throw him out of the car. It was a pivotal moment in both his career and his life. The year was 2003 and he had just attended Pondemonium®, the water feature industry’s preeminent training event. Tara traveled to the event with him, and on the car ride home, Chris confessed that he was going to sell his mowing and landscape business and focus solely on ponds. His wife decided not to toss him from the car and to trust his instinct instead, and good thing she did. As an avid Eagle Scout in his early years, Chris grew to love hiking and camping in the woods. He calls the experiences his “Stand by Me” movie moments. Fishing, swimming, and exploring nature and rock formations created his best-loved memories of youth. Many years later he received his first Aquascape catalog in 2002 and attended a “Build a Pond Day.” He was certain he’d just found his life’s calling. Recreating nature as a career was a dream come true for the outdoorsman. Building ponds is a journey much like everything else in life. Each pond installation teaches you something and prepares you for the next water feature project. Chris’s first pond is a far cry from the works of art he creates today. His second pond was sold at a Mother’s Club meeting, and he still shows that water feature on every pond tour he hosts. He

narrow path that leads you across a stream or a large perimeter boulder that invites you to sit on its ledge and dangle your feet in the water. Chris is a self-admitted kid at heart and coerces his customers to interact with their ponds through his strategic, thought-out designs.

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H AV E A B E AU T I F U L , N AT U R A L G A R D E N T H AT YO U D O N ’ T H AV E TO WO R RY A B O U T.

You Can Have a Garden that Deer Won’t Destroy

L A N D S C A P E S

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B Y S T E V E C A L L O WAY

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ore homeowners these days complain about the proliferation of deer in their communities, and how every year they turn their lavish colorful perennial gardens into half-eaten, run-down patches. They are discouraged seeing their beautiful hostas, day lilies, roses, black-eyed susans and even evergreens eaten or stomped into the ground. Based on research and years of experience, I would like to share with you ways that my company Garden Green is planning and planting attractive colorful gardens that can minimize the devastation from deer in your yard. There are two ways we approach the problem. First, for established perennial gardens of vulnerable plants including those mentioned above, we place deer deterrent plants along borders, or at entry points to discourage deer from entering. For instance, Native American flowering plants in the genus monada give off a bee balm, a powder that deer don’t like to brush up against. Monarda bradburiana has a pink flower that blooms in late spring. Monarda dittima is a hybrid species that blooms in early summer, and monarda fistulosa is a taller plant that can tolerate more sunlight, and blooms in mid-summer. Strategically planting these around your garden can keep deer away.

Then there are deer resistant plants; those that have a fragrance or taste that deer are known to avoid, or berries that don’t agree with them. These include native American plants like quinine, with serrated leaves and white flowers that bloom in late spring, skullcap, whose elegant bluish white flowers bloom in late summer, and rattlesnake master, showing unique spiky white flowers that attract orbiting skipper butterflies. False dragonhead is a hardy plant with good, whimsical growth and pink flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. Lilacs and American beautyberry are also deer-resistant colorful flowering shrubs. Beautyberry have their greatest effect in the fall, glossy metallic purple berries retain

their color until winter, and deer just don’t like the way they taste. There are also deer-resistant grasses and evergreens that keep their color all year long, like sedges, beak grain, prairie dropseed, bottle brush and Indian grass, all hardy native plants in different heights with beautiful seedpods. Another way to deter the damage from deer is in selecting the size of trees and shrubs. It is better to buy those that are beyond saplings, with good bulk. Deer like to feed on the juvenile growth of smaller saplings, and they are more easily trampled. This is just a small sampling of our solutions for lavish, colorful gardens even where the deer seem to be feeding on everything in sight. STEVE CALLOWAY is owner of Garden Green Horticulture Service. They help homeowners select the plants, trees and shrubbery that best meet their aesthetic desires and that will thrive in their sunlight, soil and moisture conditions. They also work to revitalize and restore gardens, to help homeowners with the changes that will make their yards better year after year. You can call or email Steve for a complimentary consultation in your yard, to identify your plants and advise on how to keep them healthy and looking their best. You can reach Steve at 314-288-5036 or visit garden_green@live.com.

ORNAMENTAL IRON Call us for a free estimate

314-230-0484

C U S T O M

I R O N

F A B R I C A T I O N

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H E A LT H

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f your outdoor or patio furniture has strapping, slings or cushions that are worn, stretched or faded, you don’t have to spend the money for new furniture. Instead you can select your own fabric or vinyl strapping for a new custom look that will

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summer with a whole new look! Many of the leading outdoor furniture stores in St. Louis rely on Apple Tree Custom Sewing for their repairs. With over 30 years of experience, their expert sewing technicians can provide complete sewing repairs as well as custom designs made to your personal specifications. APPLE TR E E CUSTOM SE WING

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directional fans, as well as power screens, and built-in heaters allow for use of the cozy spaces, day or night. And, of course, outdoor living wouldn’t be complete without great food and refreshing drink. Outdoor kitchens feature gas grills, smokers or pizza ovens, and beverages in refrigeration or on tap. All surrounded by comfortable gathering areas to entertain friends and family. The best outdoor living spaces work structurally and aesthetically with the existing home. Factors like exposure to sun and weather have to be evaluated in the layout and design, to be fully usable and enjoyable. There needs to be a natural flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, and privacy. But what really makes for the best in outdoor living is the quality of design, building materials and construction. These provide durable spaces that stand up to a lot of everyday use, are timelessly inviting and will last for decades. This work calls for skilled masonry craftsmen and carpenters who create with solid natural materials like stone, brick and wood.

Outdoor Living for the Ages

ome people define their quality of life by how much time they are able to spend outdoors. It’s relaxing and refreshing to commune with nature in the fresh air right in the comfort of your own back yard. And with most of us spending more time at home than ever these days, enhanced outdoor living options make an enjoyable “stay-cation” possible.

While our climate doesn’t allow us to spend time outdoors every day of the year, there are ways to extend our outdoor enjoyment to eight months a year, and add those days in winter when there is a break in the weather. Covered outdoor living rooms can be enjoyed in the rain, and with shade and a ceiling fan they make hot days comfortable. A fireplace in an outdoor living room or firepit outdoors makes cooler days enjoyable. Lighting, TV, surround sound,

One company in the St. Louis area that specializes in extraordinary outdoor living spaces and continues the great masonry tradition that St. Louis is historically known for is Luna Builds StL. They are a St. Louis owned and operated design-build company, working in a turnkey approach with homeowners to provide innovative design and construction. Let Luna Builds StL handle the entire process with their in-house craftsmen and management team, and trusted partners and suppliers. To create your own outdoor quality of life and priceless memories at home, you can call Dan Head, hands-on owner of Luna Builds, at 314-575-2791 or email at danhead@lunabuildstl.com. You can learn more about them and see more examples of their work at www.lunabuildstl.com.

BEFORE

AFTER

Does Your Home Have Uneven Concrete Surfaces? –WALKS , STEPS , PATIO, POOL DECK OR DRIVEWAY?

hese are unsightly and also tripping hazards that could cause injuries.

You may have tilting concrete steps or sidewalks, driveways or patios where a seam has turned into a step, or repeated cracking in sections of concrete slabs. These problems are often the result of a shifting or a weak soil base or erosion.

In the past, contractors relied upon mud jacking or slab jacking to level concrete that had settled over time. This involves pumping concrete slurry under the settled slab to raise it, hoping that the settlement won’t continue. But that requires large holes in the concrete - about the diameter of a soda can. It can take an entire day to cure and the mixture itself is heavy – about 100 pounds per cubic foot, which can lead to further sinking. There is now a great alternative called PolyLEVEL™, which uses a lightweight polyurethane mix that expands to fill the void beneath sunken concrete. This not only results in a solution that lasts longer, but also it looks better because it is less destructive to the applied surface. PolyLEVEL requires a much smaller hole – about the diameter of a penny, cures in 15 minutes and weighs much less – about two pounds per cubic foot. It lifts concrete slabs to a level position with less weight and disruption than the legacy mud jacking or slab jacking process. The result is a safe, secure and level concrete slab. In the St. Louis area, Woods Basement Systems is the authorized contractor for PolyLEVEL concrete lifting. They will inspect your concrete walk, steps, pool deck, patio or driveway and provide an estimate to have your sunken concrete slab lifted with PolyLEVEL. To meet with one of their concrete repair experts, you can call them at 866-7351890 or learn more at www.betterbasementvalue.com.

Let Classic Buildings Build You an Attractive Shed, Studio or Playhouse Have you been thinking about a garden shed to store your tools, pots, lawn equipment; a small guest house, ancillary office for your home or business? Classic Buildings provides custom built solutions for residential and commercial users needing affordable on site space. 100% financing available. To get started, call or email today!

Ed Hall Portable Building Specialist 314-392-2402 Ed@ClassicBuildingSales.com

3740 W. Clay Street, St. Charles, MO 63301 BEFORE

AFTER

EVENTS

CO U NT Y

LIVI N G

Spring Activities & Events Take advantage of these wonderful events. Make this the year you get back out and enjoy the special festivals and entertainment events across the St. Louis metro area.

PLEASE NOTE: These events were still scheduled as of press time. Check websites for updates.

DAVID SAN BOR N

March 23-26 The Harold & Dorothy Steward Center for Jazz jazzstl.org

DAMON DAVIS

Through March 20 St. Louis Art Museum slam.org SALUTARY SCU LP TU R E

ST. CHAR LES HOM E SHOW

April 1-3 St. Charles Convention Center stlhomeshow.com/stcharles

Feb 12-May 15 Laumeier Sculpture Park

G R E ATE R ST. LOU IS BOOK FAIR

May 12-15 Greensfelder Recreation Complex at Queeny Park stlouisbookfair.org TASTE OF MAPLE WOOD STR E ET FESTIVAL

laumeiersculpturepark.org

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K ALVE N DU NCAN , R ACH E L FE RG USON , & J U DY DUGGAN - MCCOR MACK ART E XHIB IT

Jan 7-Mar 19 Foundry Art Centre foundryartcentre.org ST. PATRICK ’ S DAY

March 17 MAPLE WOOD COFFE E CR AWL

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March 19 Downtown Maplewood cityofmaplewood.com/ fun FIRST DAY OF SPRING

March 20

CAR DINAL S HOM E OPE N E R

April 7 Busch Stadium cardinals.com

May 21 Downtown Maplewood midcountychamber.org

E ARTH DAY

April 22 MAPLE WOOD STRING FEST

May 6 Downtown Maplewood cityofmaplewood. com/fun SOUTH G R AN D SPRING ART FAIR

May 7 South Grand Business District southgrand.org

ART ON TH E SQ UAR E

Belleville, IL May 13-15 artonthesquare.com SCH L AFLY ART OUTSIDE

May 27-29 Schlafly Bottleworks Maplewood schlafly.com/events

Baker Pool Construction

N E W S

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Pruning Dormant Vineyards to Create Award-Winning Wines

s the cold winter weather travels across Missouri, grape growers throughout the state begin the process of pruning their vineyards. To produce the highest quality grapes, vines need to be pruned and trained as the grapevine re-invents itself each year. It’s a critical process to ensure proper vine growth and tasty, well-formed grape clusters at harvest. Using hand tools and much care, pruning takes skill and experience. Each grapevine is different and is pruned as an individual when the plant is fully dormant.

According to Viticulture Specialist Dean Volenberg of the University of Missouri Grape and Wine Institute, approximately 90 percent or more of the previous season’s growth is removed during dormant pruning. The vine growth that is removed is mainly one-year-old wood. From the buds on these

spurs, shoots will emerge that will produce flowers and eventually grapes. Each coming year’s harvest is dependent on the vineyard management that was done the previous season and how well these buds came through the cold winter months. If a grapevine is left unpruned, a large amount of older wood will develop over time that does not produce fruit. If too much one-year-old wood is left on the vine after pruning, the grapevine will not develop enough shoots and leaves to ripen the grapes. On the other hand, if too much one-year old wood is removed, the grapevine will produce a jungle of vine growth that can be difficult to manage with little fruit. Pruning is a talent that takes years to develop, and for many, is an art form. The secret of grapevine pruning is to balance fruit-load with vine growth. A big cheer to those who work in Missouri vineyards and continue to produce high quality wines! Missouri wines are loved and appreciated here and across the US.

Dormant pruning is the first step in the season to regulate the amount of grapes a grapevine will produce.

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The Missouri Wine and Grape Board also contributed to this article.

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Take a fresh road trip. County Living columnist

JOHN DRAKE ROBINSON

EMMY

for his unique travelogs based on his books.

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John’s Newest Book, Souls Along The Road, Is Hot Off The Press The stories along these roads reflect life’s uneven rhythms. Fun. Fear. Breakdowns and revelations. The beauty of violent storms. The scents of September sycamores and campfires, forest fires and kitchen fires. His stories serve up tastes and touches and sounds you can’t coax from a tweet. You probably shouldn’t read this during church.

Available at fine bookstores everywhere. Or email John at cjrobin@socket.net Read more stories at johndrakerobinson.com/blog

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Photos by Cheryl Robinson

This Book Should Be in Every Home in St. Louis

any of us who have lived in the St. Louis area our whole lives don’t know much about our own history. We learn in school about world history, US history and facts about Missouri government, but very little is taught about the history of our own county. And newcomers to St. Louis generally know even less about the area.

To help all of us feel more connected to our own community, County Living Publications has re-published The History of St. Louis County, Missouri by William Lyman Thomas, a 100-year old book that documents our history from the earliest settlers through the Civil War and into the first decade of the 20th century. It documents what life was like 100 years ago here - the towns, neighborhoods, schools, churches, social societies, government, businesses, transportation and amusements of the period, and thousands of the people who were active in these endeavors. This is a quality softbound book of over 500 pages, with more than 100 historic photographs. Now available at: Amazon.com Campbell House in Downtown St. Louis The Louisiana Purchase Gift Shop at Missouri History Museum Left Bank Books Main Street Books in St. Charles Museum of Transportation Gift Shops in Kirkwood St. Louis Genealogical Society in Maplewood World News in Clayton For more information, you can visit StLCountyHistory.com

A Place in the Country BY BILL ZIE RCH E R

Bill is a Charter Member of the American Tree Farm System and his timber property is ATFS certiﬁed. He is a lifetime member of Quail Forever and the National Riﬂe Association.

Adjective in, relating to, or characteristic of the countryside rather than the city. If you are someone you know is thinking about selling a rural property now is an excellent time to sell. It is a seller’s market for sure, with prices at an all-time high and available inventory near an all-time low. Selling such an important asset is a major decision for you or your family. Remember that the right agent does not cost, rather they pay, in that the experience and reach will usually net you more money while providing valuable advice. The important questions to consider when picking an agent are: ■ First, can you trust the agent? ■ Are they intimately familiar and passionate about your property type, in order to best present your property to buyers? ■ Do they have the right marketing tools in their toolbox?

■ Are they a full-time agent with depth of

experience in getting deals done? ■ Will they provide not only local but region and national reach?

The long-term trends have to do with a population of all ages looking to get out of the metropolitan “rat race,” and the greater availability of lifestyle options in smaller towns like interesting restaurants, brew pubs, shops and music/winery venues. The renovation and improvement in rural communities, making them more desirable for suburban and urban residents to relocate or recreate, has been on a steady increase for a long time. There is a sense of nostalgia about small town life that many people remember fondly from their childhoods and that they are now seeking to recapture. Many families are connecting with nature more, and like me, they find it addictive. Working professionals are experiencing more life balance. The decline in time and desire to follow and watch professional sports is one example.

BILL ZIERCHER is the founder of Select Properties Real Estate. He has been active in building, buying, selling, and managing rural real estate and income property for over 25 years. His company’s 10-step marketing process offers unmatched exposure for your property on over 500 real estate search sites for the rural real estate market. For a free consultation on marketing your rural property, you can contact Bill at 314-412-3966. And for copies of previous “A Place in the Country” Articles you can email him at ziercher59@gmail.com.

Shifts in work, education, health, entertainment and shopping options have also added to the trend. With expanding broadband, residents in rural areas can work from home as easily as those in metropolitan areas. They can stream the latest and best in entertainment without having theaters nearby and shop from any website in the world with delivery directly to their homes. From a supply/demand perspective Missouri, like most of the country, has extreme contrasts in population densities when you look at population per square mile. The shift in demand from urban/suburbanites has created an inventory imbalance increasing rural property demand, making it a great time for families to sell some or all of their rural property. n“Getting Away and Staying Connected” this article addresses how technology makes it easier to live, play, work or raise a family in rural areas n“Attracting Wildlife to your Rural Property” helpful hints for attracting deer, birds and more n“Water Features” explores lakes, ponds, streams and springs on rural properties n“Rural Property is a Great Investment” n“Selling, Buying and Owning Rural Property” Q&A on buying and selling

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ru·ral

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Thinking of Selling Your Rural Property? Now Is a Great Time.

It is about addition not subtraction. What I mean it is not decreasing the importance of career, rather increasing importance in other vital areas of life; recreation, family, exercise (hiking) and nature. People who have been thinking about having a place to live or play a little further out are deciding now is the time to make the move.

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Painted mural in the Loop – by Eliana Cristancho, Carol Lara, Luise Otero Prada and Aleida Hertel

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A Rich and Vibrant Addition to our Cultural Landscape BY G E RRY MAN DE L

t all began when Elisa Bender had an idea. “I thought about reaching out to local Hispanic artists. It seemed like more and more were coming to St. Louis.” Her idea was to get a few of them together for an informal meeting, like a happy hour event. So “reach out” she did. The response astounded her. “I put a message on Facebook and thought maybe only a handful would be there.” Fifteen artists showed up, and that was just the beginning. Today, Latinx Arts Network is an active, thriving organization that provides a

network for artists and art advocates who support and encourage the Hispanic arts in St. Louis. The arts, as stated on their website, include “fine art, performance arts, visual art, literary arts, music and all other art expressions including art producers.” That’s an impressive line-up of artistic expression, by a diversified and accomplished membership. In 2021 a unique and powerful mural was unveiled in the Delmar Loop. Four visual artists wanted to make people aware of the Hispanic culture in St. Louis and express a shared experience with the community.

The artists were Eliana Cristancho (Colombia), Carl Lara (Peru), Luise Otero Prada (Colombia), and Aleida Hertel (Mexico). Their personal stories are as compelling as the mural, entitled “Building Bridges,” which is at 5875 Delmar. Elisa was born and raised in St. Louis. Her mother is Hispanic, her father is Caucasian, from the United States. She went to McClure North High school, where she was one of only two students with any Hispanic roots. “I love to dance,” she told

me. “My parents had me involved in Hispanic dancing at an early age. In the mid-90’s, my mom and a couple of friends organized the first Hispanic Festival in St. Louis.” That is a popular event that continues to this day and is widely attended by people from every part of the City, County, and surrounding area. Other events connected with Latinx are the annual Day of the Dead observance and the Latinx Film Festival. “My family was so supportive, especially my mom,” she says. “They encouraged me to make this happen.” Elisa also credits the Missouri History Museum with seeing the potential in her idea and providing whole-hearted support from the very beginning. She describes herself as a person who wants to make things happen. The Hispanic Festival is one of those. She is the president of Latinx, and works with a small board of directors who have provided significant help. Their experiences and knowledge cover a wide variety of fields that contribute to the success of the organization. With ninety members, it is difficult to single out a few to represent the entire organization. In going through their website and attendant links, I think the following artists will give you an idea of the members’ background and talents. MIRIAM RUIZ is a visual artist, art curator and educator. She manages

school and community programming at the Contemporary Art Museum in St. Louis, and is also a curator for the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. With a Master of Arts from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, she has a wide range of teaching experience, including English instructor in the Czech Republic. Her ten years of educational experience, in addition to administrative and research experience, provides valuable guidance for Latinx. LUISA OTERO PRADA was born in Colombia, South America, and is

based in St. Louis. She attended La Salle University in Colombia, where she majored in architecture before moving to the U.S. “Art has always been a part of my life. My intention is to create Visual Magic Realism in my work. The beauty and exuberance of nature and people are my deepest inspiration to paint.” She is an acrylic painter whose work has been exhibited in many St. Louis area galleries. CAROL LARA has been exploring art since childhood. Her parents, who

are from Peru, emigrated to St. Louis, where she grew up. Singing, dancing, exploring, storytelling, and painting have always played important roles in her life. At 19, she discovered the joys of working with a camera, and today she is a full-time photographer and artisan. She also works with clay to create distinctive jewelry and sculptures. ORLANDO VINCENTE TLL says it best: “My bags are always packed

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and ready. I am a storyteller, a traveller, and I make images, both moving and stills.” He picked up a digital camera twenty years ago, and that was the beginning. He has a passion for the crafts of movie and video production, and loves to make beautiful images as the center of everything. “But to experience the world through travel and meaningful relationships is truly the nucleus that life and creativity revolve around.” L. IRENE COMPADRE is the founding principal of Arbolope Studio. She has a background in musical composition, architecture, sculpture and scenic art. Irene holds a Master of Landscape Architecture degree with Honors from the Sam Fox School of Design at Washington University, St. Louis. The goal of her company is to create innovative, sustainability-minded, and impactful landscapes that help make a happier, healthier and more connected world.

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CARLOS RESTREPO wears many hats. He is a bilingual communicator,

graphic designer, freelance journalist, translation specialist and public relations professional. He was born in Medellin, Columbia, and has lived in St. Louis for more than a decade. He describes his professional mission simply: “Make sure you are understood, regardless of the language or the medium.” Carlos is committed to the betterment of the Hispanic and immigrant communities in St Louis, and beyond. JAVIER TORRES GOMEZ , a licensed architect from Mexico, works as a

Top: Nostalgia by Eliana Cristancho Bottom: Photo by Julia López Lower left: Elisa Bender

Left to right: Luisa Otero Prada, Javier Torres Gomez, Carol Lara, Julia López

Project Designer at ACI Boland Architects in St. Louis. With an interest in art and architecture, he graduated from Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico. Javier also creates his own comic book, Acatl the Eagle Warrior, and also designs 2D and 3D logos and photorealistic renderings, as well as hand sketches of all kinds, including architecture and landscapes, portraits, animals, and character creation. He moved to St. Louis in 2012 and has been a member of the Latinx art group since 2017.

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JOSE GUADALUPE GARZA , raised in

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Florida by parents who immigrated from Mexico, grew up without speaking English. He is an artist, educator, and veteran working in new and traditional media. His studio practice utilizes cinema and popular culture as theoretical frameworks to explore the changing demographic and cultural landscape of the U.S. with significance to the Latinx experience. He has exhibited nationally and internationally including the 2017 Biennale de Spazio

Publico in Rome, Video Art in America at Everson Museum, University of Michigan Stamps Gallery, and the Counterpublic Triennial. Jose earned a BFA in Drawing from the University of Florida and an MFA in Visual Arts from Washington University in St. Louis. JULIA LÓPEZ , who lives in St. Louis, is

of Venezuelan and Mexican descent. She found her true medium in 2010, when she fell in love with photography. “I am inspired by the relationships between significant moments and the candid, natural beauty that surrounds us every day.” Her work has been displayed at several museums and galleries, including the Contemporary Art Museum, Soulard Art Gallery, St. Louis Artists’ Guild, Lindenwood Center for the Arts, and Clayton Fine Art Gallery. She finds the city of St. Louis to be fertile ground for her work, especially because of its history and transitions. She calls her studio “Angelfallsphotography,” a tribute to the world’s highest waterfall in Venezuela.

“I thought it only made sense to integrate my culture into what I love to do.” These are just a few of the artists who make up Latinx. Their stories, their origins, and their art are as varied and rich as the cultures with which they identify. They are talented, dedicated to their art, and proud to be members of Latinx. If not for the inspiration and follow-through of Elisa Bender, this organization would probably not have happened. St. Louis can feel justifiably proud that Latinx has joined the rich culture of this city. You can see more about Latinx by visiting their website, www.Latinxartsstl.com. Click on “Artist Directory” to learn more about other members, and to see samples of their work. And if you know an artist you think would enjoy knowing about Latinx, be sure to tell them about it.

Left: Huitzilopochtli by Javier Torres Gomez Right: Silkheart by Luisa Otero Prada

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You’ve enjoyed his columns. Now enjoy his new book. Author of “Random Musings” and Artist Profiles in County Living. A collection of short stories, essays, columns, and a novelette. “If you want a peek inside one of the most critical and humorous minds in this age and time, this is a treasure. Trust me, you’ll like what you see.” – Harry Weber, internationally known sculptor, artist “Gerry Mandel writes with a wit, charm, and irony that walks with us through the outer layers of our sensibilities before it opens the door to the spirit of the human heart. An authentic voice.” – Dennis Fleming, author, “The Girl Who Had No Enemies” …a compelling collection…impressive writing that strikes a chord and leaves the reader with a sense of satisfaction.” – Linda O’Connell, writer, author, teacher “He has that acute sense of knowing how to make a story important.” – Dwight Bitikofer, poet, community newspaper publisher Available directly from the author. Email 503spidermandel@gmail.com

On The Road

WITH JOHN DRAKE ROBINSON Read this and other stories in John’s latest book, Souls Along the Road, and more road tales in his first two books A Road Trip into America’s Hidden Heart and Coastal Missouri, available at Left Bank Books. More of his stories are at johndrakerobinson.com.

His & Hearse: Mother Warned Me

t was lonely on the road.

A music tour had kept me away for weeks, mostly deep in the Ozarks. Home was on my mind. My own bed. Home cooked meals. Hugging my

grandkids.

But home was still miles away.

John Barleycorn’s reserves, I paid my bill, threw down a liberal tip, and walked out the door, ready to resume my trip home. Only one problem. In my condition driving home was out of the question. A hitchhike was my best option. With little thought about being kidnapped, murdered or held for ransom, I was all thumbs. The last time

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For reasons of good taste and legal advice, I’ll protect the anonymity of the driver and his pallid passenger. I have no idea who his passenger was, since the casket was closed. Suffice it to say the three of us had a pleasant ride to my destination, and two of us had a great conversation. “So long, buddy, and thanks for the ride.” I hopped out and he drove away in the general direction of his passenger’s final stop.

“Don’t worry, Mom, I’ll never go in there.”

Soon I was immersed in the culture of the locals in the low light of this tavern, a delightful throwback to the days when the barroom was filled with rail passengers and conductors and brakemen and engineers laying over. Hours later, having dipped liberally into

I swallowed hard and leaned into the hearse’s open window, expecting to meet the Grim Reaper. Instead, I saw the familiar face of an old friend from high school.

“Son of a bitch!” I think I shouted, as a feeling of relief washed through my veins.

Johnnie’s Bar has been serving whiskey in downtown St. James since the Irish laborers built the railroad through here. Even from the outside, Johnnie’s looks foreboding, with its big neon Stag Beer sign over a doorway into cold, smoky darkness. It’s the kind of place that makes you hear your mother’s voice: “I better never catch you going in there.”

Or bring them out.

“John Robinson!”

“What are you doing way down here?” he asked.

And a high-noon layover at Johnnie’s had slowed my progress home.

But in life, a young boy’s perspective evolves. Moms just don’t understand that places like Johnnie’s have the elixir that can subdue frightful images of devils and demons and death.

its passenger, I showed no thumb, instead placing my hand over my heart and bowing my head. As the hearse passed, it slowed to a stop. Its backup lights told me that the hearse was coming back for me. Even significant whiskey impairment couldn’t dull my panic. As the hearse drew nigh to my startled face, the passenger window rolled down and the voice from the driver’s seat called out.

I hitchhiked, I was in college. But I quickly regained my collegiate form, throwing thumbs and smiles guaranteed to snag a trusting driver. Times have changed. Oh, there may be as many hitchhikers as ever. But when's the last time you heard of anybody stopping to give a stranger a ride? Oblivious, I walked to the edge of town, preparing to hitchhike home, when I saw a single car, a sleek silver hearse approaching. It was going my way, but in reverence to

And I'm left with the same nagging questions. Does my dear departed mother know I stopped at Johnnie's Bar? Did that decedent in the hearse ever pick up hitchhikers? She did on her last ride. That strange trip serves as a reminder that the next time a hearse stops to give me a ride, it’ll probably be my last. John's latest book, Souls Along The Road, is available on Amazon.com.

Here are some recent successes I have produced for my clients: Saved a local HVAC company $68,000/year in telecom, payment processing and fuel Saved an equipment provider $10,000/year on telecom Saved an advertising company $32,000/year on payment processing and shipping. Saved a retail meat processing shop $10,000/ year on shipping

Saving Businesses Owners and Managers Time and Money

Health care - dentists, optometrists,

TH E N O - R I S K WAY TO S I G N I F I CANTLY R E D U CE E VE RY DAY E XP E N S E S .

orthodontists, veterinarians and animal hospitals, urgent cares, physical therapists, chiropractors, surgery centers and more.

B Y N AT H A N S T E V E N S

HOW WE WORK

ABOUT SCHOOLEY MITCHELL I am the St. Louis area Optimization Specialist for Schooley Mitchell. We are the largest cost reduction consultant in North

There is no cost to your company:

INDUSTRIES WE SERVE

What does this all mean for you? No more headaches or the dread of wasting time on the phone with vendors or sales people, no more haggling for better prices, and no more wondering whether you have the right services at the right prices for your needs. And no more throwing away your hard earned money.

Professionals - accountants, lawyers, financial advisors. Goods & Services – manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, advertising/printing, restaurants, retail, e-commerce. Not for Profits - charities, churches, asso-

ciations, schools, community centers, senior centers, clubs, societies, foundations. Real Estate, Construction and Trades

– title companies, property managers, agents, mortgage companies, builders, landscapers, plumbers, electricians, HVAC.

Our fees are only self-funded from savings that we generate. We cannot decrease your company’s bottom line. We are vigilant in our review of our clients’ services to control ongoing costs and needs. We handle your implementations, negotiations, future changes, and error resolutions, as well as needs analysis, technology recommendations, relocations, integrations and more.

Let me help you spend less so that you can focus on making more.

NATHAN STEVENS 314-885-1251 or cell 773-470-7179 nathan.stevens@schooleymitchell.com

F I N A N C E

Here are some examples of the types of organizations we are helping right now:

We are completely independent of all vendors and suppliers, and we never sell anything. This means, we always act in the best interest of our clients, providing 100% objective advice to get the best prices and services for the needs of your business. We work with vendors and salespeople on our clients’ behalf, we advise and consult, manage any new implementations, and we become a single point of contact to manage all changes and future needs.

But that is the dilemma – owners and managers are busy driving results for their businesses, and they know that the time to understand, track, and closely monitor all these costs could be better spent driving revenue or managing operations. Well, you should know that there is a no-risk, high-return way to reduce these everyday expenses that can help your company’s bottom line, will cost you nothing, and take very little of your time.

Our team will work to fully optimize your services, review for errors, remove unnecessary fees and charges, and find you unpublished rates through our relationships and competition among the vendors. We act as an ongoing “Watch Dog” over your vendors to ensure that your rates and services never slip and stay at their best.

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America. We have specialized software, benchmarking tools, pricing databases, experienced negotiators, and connections and clout with vendors and suppliers. In addition, we have a dedicated R&D team that monitors industry trends, changes, and technologies.

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Are you overpaying on your business expenses? Considerable amounts of time and money are spent on essential services to run your business - phone/ internet service, shipping, waste disposal, fuel, fleet tracking, utilities, credit card processing and more. There are significant opportunities to save money in each of these areas if you are willing to spend time studying a range of vendors, gaining knowledge and understanding in multiple areas, and analyzing and negotiating the specific options offered.

If Your Sales Reps are too Busy to Handle Phone Work, Someone Else Should be Doing it for Them. A CHALLENGE FOR SALESPEOPLE

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ne aspect of selling frustrates many top salespeople. That is the follow up it takes to turn a prospect into a client. As good as these salespeople are, for a number of reasons, many of them resist this task. These high performers who can light up the room in a sales presentation don’t like the hit-or-miss aspect of reaching the right people on the phone, and many of them just don’t handle this task all that well. They may be lacking computer or organizational skills that would allow them to handle prospecting more efficiently. That winds up wasting their precious selling time, keeping them from achieving their sales goals. WHAT TO DO ABOUT THIS?

We live in a world of specialization, so it isn’t surprising that there have emerged in recent years specialist companies in sales support that efficiently accomplish inside sales functions. These firms thrive by helping to set appointments, cultivate your leads into sales, handle email and mail follow up that can bog down your salespeople. So, they more than pay for themselves. It is

client satisfaction and retention that keeps the best of these companies in business. RAINMAKER SALES SUPPORT

Fortunately, we have such a company here in the St. Louis area. Rainmaker Sales Support was founded by Patricia Cowan, a top sales performer who saw a gap in follow through among many of her peers. Rainmaker has a national reputation of being a top-notch cold calling and appointment setting firm. They specialize in getting you appointments with the prospects you’d like to meet. RAINMAKER INSIDE SALES

About two years ago, Patricia realized that many of the appointments they set for their clients were never followed up on. Soon after, she kicked off their Inside Sales Department. When hiring, Patricia uses the DISC assessments (personality assessments). This gives her an idea of who should be prospectors, and who should be Inside Sales Reps. From there, her staff goes on completely different training paths. The Inside Sales Reps specialize in contacting the same person repeatedly, such as quarterly. By using calling, and sometimes individual emailing and mailing, they further advance your proposal, and continue to build

rapport on your behalf. They are not a call center, but a company composed of twenty-five seasoned salespeople who understand, genuinely enjoy and professionally manage the nuances of the sales support process that can make a real difference in the effectiveness of your selling team. They handle every account as if they are cultivating their own sales base. Other things this new department specializes in are: n Handling your house accounts n Cultivation of prospects n Proposal follow up n Upselling and cross selling current clients n Reactivating your dormant accounts n Client surveys n Taking it to the sale

Rainmaker Sales Support can very efficiently deliver your needs and work seamlessly with your selling team to help them more effectively achieve their goals. HELP FOR YOUR ORGANIZATION

You can contact Patricia Cowan, president, owner and founder of Rainmaker Sales Support, for a consultation at your office. She will be happy to provide references you can call to verify how they can make your team more successful. You can reach Patricia by phone at 314-433-4660, extension 101, or by email at Patricia@RainmakerSalesSupport.com. You can learn more about her company at www.RainmakerSalesSupport.com.

T H E

R A I N D R O P ®

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Have You Had Excessive Premium Increases For Your Long-Term Care Insurance? MISSOURI LEGISLATION SEEKS TO REGULATE PREMIUM INCREASES

BY CAROL KIN DING E R

or many middle-class Americans, long-term care insurance (LTCI) is a critical part of planning a safer, more secure financial future. LTCI helps protect the assets they have worked to accumulate over a lifetime. Hopefully, by purchasing LTCI, it would keep them from becoming a burden to their children or society. Unfortunately, in most recent years, consumers are finding the costs of LTCI premiums rapidly and exorbitantly escalating to levels that result in many policyholders having to cancel their policies after paying premiums for decades and having reached an age where they need the coverage.

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UNJUSTIFIED RATE HIKES

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While insurance premiums typically increase over time, today’s LTCI premium increases are unrealistic and more frequent. Insurance providers claim the increases are justified because the actuarial forecasts were inaccurately calculated decades ago. In other words, the consequences for internal mistakes are passed on to policyholders. It is reported rate increases are exceeding 60% to 90% in one year, depending on the carrier. What’s equally concerning is that Missouri and Alaska are the only two states that do not regulate LTCI premium increases. The Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance reviews insurers’ requests for premium increases but does not offer actual approval or rejection of the increases for LTCI. In essence, Missouri policyholders have been subsidizing policyholders in other states when premium rate increases were not approved in those states. SENATOR BILL EIGEL INTRODUCES LEGISLATION On a positive note, in 2021, Senator Bill Eigel realized the immediate need for legislation that would protect Missourians from being forced to pay astronomical LTCI premiums or lose the coverage they

were relying on for their golden years. He introduced Senate Bill 288 that would have capped rate increases for LTCI policies at the lesser of the consumer price index or five percent, measured annually. This legislation was bundled into House Bill 604 and was signed into law. Unfortunately, the provisions of Senate Bill 288 were radically revised during this legislative process, leaving the ability of insurance companies to raise premiums virtually intact. Insurance companies were allowed to increase rates by amounts they determined were actuarially justified. The only true advantage provided by the bill that was ultimately signed into law allows a resident to deduct from their Missouri taxable income an amount equal to 100% of premium payments (less any reimbursed amounts). Thankfully, Senator Eigel (Bill.Eigel@ senate.mo.gov / 573.751.1141) realized the need to introduce the legislation again in hopes to accomplish what is needed to protect our residents. This new Senate Bill 912 again calls for capping rate increases for long-term care insurance policies at the lesser of the consumer price index or five percent, measured annually. “I am glad to sponsor legislation, SB 912, which will protect Missourians from unjus-

tified rate increases to their long term care insurance premiums. We need to address the premium increases which are being placed on the backs of aging Missourians; a negative impact due to other states regulating long term care insurance premium increases,” said Senator Eigel. HOLDING INSURANCE PROVIDERS ACCOUNTABLE If folks are forced to give up their LTCI policies for economic reasons, then wouldn’t that leave the burden on our state budget to care for these people when their resources are exhausted? Insurance providers and their underwriters should be held accountable for their projections and actuarial accounting. They should not be permitted to put an extraordinary burden on policyholders to bail them out of their errors, oversights or obligations. While nursing home facilities and in-home care costs vary from state to state, insurance companies’ projections should have accounted for those differences. Bipartisan support will be required for this legislation to become law. You are encouraged to contact your state senator and representative to ask for their support for Senate Bill 912. Also, you may contact the Chairpersons for both the Senate and House of Representatives asking for their support: Senator Paul Wieland

Insurance & Banking Committee, Chairman Paul.Wieland@senate.mo.gov 573-751-1492 Representative John Wiemann

Insurance Committee, Chairman John.Wiemann@house.mo.gov 573-751-2176

Dave and his parents decided the best thing to do would be to sell the distribution business. Without much knowledge of the process, they contacted some companies in the same industry a little out of their geography. Several looked and one made an offer. There was a counter from the seller, but the prospective buyer did not act. The buyer seemed to be waiting the family out for a better deal. Next, Dave was contacted by my company Fusion Business Brokers. We met after

hours at his place, and discussed Dave’s situation and the business. After gathering the proper information and understanding his objectives, I made a suggestion to Dave as to what price to list the business for. Dave and his family were pleased with that and listed the business with Fusion. We marketed it in various media and to my firm’s large list of qualified individuals and companies looking to make acquisitions. All the while keeping knowledge of the sale confidential. While it wasn’t a simple process and not without some hopefuls that didn’t work out, our marketing effort found Brian. He is a young man who had a successful corporate career but wanted more for himself and his family. He had looked at multiple opportunities and while this one wasn’t in his favored geography, it interested him quite a bit. When Brian was ready, I put Brian and Dave together and assisted through the process. That included discovery, negotiation, due diligence and financing. Both the buyer and seller felt that the knowledge Fusion and I brought was invaluable for making the sale work.

There were some hurdles through the process, but I helped everyone navigate them, even with the additional challenge of putting a deal together during the Covid pandemic. While I helped get Dave’s family a sale price that was five times what the business was offered to the competitor for, everyone, including the banks, felt the price was very fair. All sides are happy with the outcome and are well on their way to accomplishing their life goals. Many business owners aren’t familiar with business brokers, and how they can help them when it comes time to sell. But once they find a good broker, they are more than pleased to have the guidance and the assistance. And while there is a cost involved for the seller, a good broker more than offsets the cost in the sale by the knowledge and experience they bring to the table. A business broker should be able to guide all parties through the processes and challenges of a business acquisition and transition.

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ave ran a large distribution company that he owned with his parents. He worked in the business all his life and he and the business were very successful. His parents had mostly retired, so all the responsibility of the operation was on Dave. Years prior he had started another company with a partner, and it grew to be even larger than the distribution company. Dave did well financially but he was worn out and was not getting to spend nearly enough time with his wife and two sons.

BY J E F F BACH

B U S I N E S S

A B U S I N E S S B RO K E R C AN MAK E A VE RY B I G D I F F E R E N CE I N TH E R E S U LT.

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When it Comes Time to Sell Your Business...

JEFF BACH is a leading broker at Fusion Business Brokers, along with other top brokers in this area. Fusion Business Brokers combines the highest levels of technology, marketing and professional experience for your needs. With access to their large network of qualified buyers, Jeff offers the best opportunity to help you successfully sell your business. He only gets paid when you sell your business. Valuations are free and are the starting point to knowing when it is the right time to sell your business. Jeff can also help qualified buyers find and buy a business that meets their goals. You can contact Jeff for a free, confidential, no-obligation discussion about selling your business or buying a business at 314-941-8530, or by email at jbach@fusionadvantage.com.

Are Your Tech Devices Running Slow? Giving You Confusing Messages? We Can Help! B Y D E D E C AT S AV I S

COMPUTER TUTORS iis a local, woman-owned small business founded in 1997. DEDE CATSAVIS is the founder and owner. For 25 years they have provided computer services to thousands of satisfied, happy customers. Computer Tutors works on Windows and MAC computers, sets up home networks, eliminates viruses and also will help with any of your other electronic devices. You can reach them at 314-608-7920, and at www.computertutors.net.

client called recently that had multiple tech devices and, of course, multiple problems. I was told that the first computer was super slow. The tech, Jeff, diagnosed the computer and let the client know that her computer would greatly benefit from a solid-state hard drive. It still had the older technology, a spinning drive – not a digital drive.

The techs always carry solid state drives with them – just for this

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Available at Left Bank Books and online retailers

reason. He popped one in and copied the contents of the old, spinning drive over to the new solid-state drive. The computer was now super-fast – with its useful life greatly increased. The client was happy that she didn’t have to purchase a new computer, and able to extend the lifespan of this one and use it at a greatly increased speed. The other household computer did have a solid-state drive and was much newer. The problem was that there was a message that appeared on it about ‘running out

of hard drive space’. The computer was very slow and almost non-functional. The client said they didn’t have any large files like pictures, music or videos and just had a few documents, etc. on the drive so they wondered how it could be nearly full already. Jeff diagnosed the situation and noticed that their Norton antivirus program had massive log files that were continuously being written to. A very small text file, or ‘log’, had grown to the size of 200+ gigabytes (or 30,000+ average size photos), and was still growing! Since the logs were unnecessary, Jeff deleted the logs, freed up lots of hard drive space and turned off logging. Problem solved with no need for additional hardware! Many other small issues were addressed—two printers were configured to work on the wireless network, ROKUs were installed and configured on several TVs for watching streaming content, and various software updates were made on all devices.

Make Your Home Look Great, Feel Great, Perform Great It’s possible to do all three—without breaking the bank! Marla Esser Cloos, the Green Home Coach in her book Living Green Effortlessly: Simple Choices for a Better Home provides simple steps that can save you money now, increase your home’s value, and make your home healthier for you, your family—and the environment.

“Marla does a wonderful job simplifying what can often be an overwhelming subject. I found her action steps easy to understand (and more importantly...implement). In addition, she provided a TON of tips, tools and checklists that any homeowner would find invaluable. Overall, I found the content to be well organized and can see myself using this as a resource time and time again!” -M. Fies, Homeowner

Available at BuilderBooks.com

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B U S I N E S S

We provide expert custom design and installation of ponds, recreation ponds, streams and waterfalls. These sustainable ecosystems can be used to harvest rainwater and control storm water runoff. We are Master Certified Aquascape Contractors, first place winners of the North American Pond/Waterfall Competition and St. Louis’s first Certified RainXchange Professionals. Named by Aquascape as the 2012 Artist of the Year, and ranked #4 among all Certified Aquascape Contractors worldwide. For an on-site consultation or private water feature tour, please call Chris at 636-223-2330

F I N A N C E

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County Living Magazine

Articles inside

Excessive Increases for Long-Term Care Insurance?

Are Your Tech Devices Slow? Confusing? We Can Help

When It Comes Time to Sell Your Business

Saving Business Owners and Managers Time and Money

On the Road with John Drake Robinson

Does Your Home Have Uneven Concrete Surfaces?

Outdoor Living for the Ages

Kitchen Cabinets: Refacing Instead of Replacing

Latinx: A Rich Part of Our Cultural Landscape

You Can Have a Garden that Deer Won't Destroy

The Call of the Wild: Chris Siewing of Nature's Re-Creations

News from Wine Country

A Place in the Country Bill Ziercher

An Effective Solution to an Uncomfortable Problem

The Basement Egress Window

Breathe Easier Using Salt Room Therapy

The Green Home Coach – Marla Esser Cloos

Advantages of Ultrasound for Diagnosis

Make and Keep Garage and Basement Floors Attractive

Advanced Technologies Improve Skin and Hair

Getting Your Floors to Look Their Best