H O M E + H E A LT H + R E C R E AT I O N
COUNTY LIVING SUMMER 2022
Baker Pool Construction
To request an appointment or receive more information, call us at
636.519.POOL
or visit www.bakerpoolconstruction.com We look forward to hearing from you!
COUNTY LIVING What’s Inside
HOME 10 The Green Home Coach
L A N DSC A P E S & E X TE R I O R S
12 The Basement Egress Window
20 The Hottest Pool Design Trends of 2022
Fitness Goals?
12 More Attractive Garage and Basement Floors
22 What Homeowners Want in a Water
33 Helping a Boy Achieve a Breakthrough
Garden Part II
35 An Effective Solution to an
13 Waterproof Surfaces Transform Your Basement 14 Imagine Your Garage: Furnished & Functional Living Space
16 Kitchen Cabinets: Refacing Instead of Replacing 17 Getting Your Floors to Look Their Best 18 New Custom Villas from Simon Homes
H E A LTH 32 What Is Keeping You from Reaching Your
24 Native Plant Conversion for Problem
Uncomfortable Problem
Landscapes
36 Breathe Easier with Salt Room Therapy
26 Services to Restore Your Pool Deck 27 If Your Home Is Settling, Don't Panic 28 Does Your Home Have Uneven Concrete Surfaces?
G E TAWAYS
CO LU M N S
BUSINESS & FINANCE
38 Late Summer Activities &
8 Random Musings from Gerry Mandel
55 This Book Should Be in Every Home in
Events Calendar
50 On the Road with John Drake
40 A New Golf Experience at Woods Fort
Robinson
St. Louis
57 Why Do I Need Help Selling My
Golf Club
Business?
48 Innsbrook: "Nature Itself is the
58 Making the Tech Transition to a Home
Best Physician"
Office
52 The World in Black & White
SEE EVEN MORE ON OUR WEBSITE
CO U N T Y L I V I N G M AG . CO M
Reverse Weakness that Comes with Aging:
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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 / S U M M E R
PU B LISH E R /E DITOR
Todd Abrams
For information about advertising, contact:
DESIG N + CR E ATIVE DIR EC TION + PRODUC TION
Todd Abrams toddabrams1@gmail.com 314-443-3024
Michael Kilfoy, Studio X
Carol Kindinger carolkindinger@gmail.com 314-452-3576
ACCOU NT E XECUTIVE
Carol Kindinger
P.O. Box 411036 St. Louis, MO 63141
PRINTING
ON THE COVER This beautiful lakeside home is a showpiece of lighting design that dramatically enhances the appearance of the backyard. The homeowners wanted a way to enhance the landscape, pool area and dock. The stunning design of the uplighting on the ornamental trees beautifully highlights the ultimate oasis. The lighting along the dock walkway provides safety, security and draws you near the crown jewel of the property, the lake. This lighting design and installation were provided by Outdoor Lighting Perspectives. Their lighting designs are considered to be Best in Class in the outdoor lighting industry in the St. Louis area. They are proud of their success in meeting and exceeding their customers’ expectations with their focus exclusively on lighting – not only architectural lighting for the front of the home, but they also offer landscape lighting designs for pools, patio and deck lighting, garden and water features. You can call Outdoor Lighting Perspectives of St. Louis for a free design consultation for custom outdoor lighting at your home at 636-220-6612. To see more of their work, you can visit them online at OutdoorLights.com/St-Louis
Walsworth Fulton DISTRIB UTION DATABASE
To view this issue online with links to resources:
Insight Marketing
COU NT YLIVING MAG .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.
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Random Musings FROM GERRY MANDEL
GERRY MANDEL writes life stories, plays, short stories, essays, blogs, and the occasional novel. He enjoys sharing his writings, and would appreciate your comments.
Time To Be Musing Along
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R A N D O M
M U S I N G S
or much of my life, I’ve had a problem with setting priorities. I’m not saying I’m irresponsible. To the contrary, if I say I’ll meet you at noon for lunch or get a dozen eggs on the way home or finish writing an article for a magazine, you can count on me. But it’s in that vague area between responsibility and procrastination where I fall short. Case in point: I bought a book on procrastination last year but haven’t gotten around to reading it yet.
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I inhabit at times a loosely-formed alternate universe for which no deadlines exist, no commitments are made. Here’s an example of what I’m talking about. I have a very large box of 35mm slides and 8mm home movies in my basement. Dozens and dozens, most of them in the familiar yellow Kodak boxes. I seriously intend to go through them, pick the ones I want to preserve and get digitized. Pictures and movies of my mom and dad, my kids’ birthdays, holidays, parties, trips, good friends - some of them no longer here - and people who were important in my life. Not a difficult project, just takes some time. And a commitment. I look at that box every time I go into the basement and say the same thing to myself: “I should go through that box.” I’ve been saying that “should” word for more than ten years now. And the pile hasn’t gotten any smaller. So it continues to sit there. For months, even years. But one of these days… So, what’s the point of all this breast beating and mea culpas? I guess it’s to say I am turning my “should’s” into “will’s.” As in, “I will do this.” It’s something I accept as a responsibility, a priority affixed to a project.
To get to the point of all this – I started writing a second novel almost two years ago. I had a pretty good start, then got sidetracked to write someone’s life story, a man of 59 who was in the late stages of ALS. I had told him I couldn’t, but the more we talked, the more tempting the project
squeeze out that last paragraph before the presses ran. One thing I found out through my search for subjects was I could write a column on just about any subject. Kitchen remodeling. Choosing a cereal. Hawaiian shirts. Pumpkins. Poodles. I even wrote about mail boxes and toothpicks. I guess there’s humor and an angle in just about anything, if you just look hard enough and keep an open mind. I don’t know if any of you will miss me, feel your life is a little emptier without the words and smiles, or will even read this good-bye letter. If someone writes to me and says they shed a tear or held an issue of this magazine closer to their breast, then I will be redeemed. So, to move things along, here are my priorities now: The Chaplin novel. A second book of my writings, which would be a volume 2 of “Selected Writings.” (Note: It’s not too late to order volume 1, $22 plus $4 postage. Email me: spidermandel@ charter.net) Write Act 2 of a play I wrote (first act only) called “Two Old Actors Walk Into a Bar.” Guaranteed to win a Tony.
became. He became my priority. But the novel? It hung there, note cards taped to my wall, ideas and scenes and characters. The novel – when it’s finished – will be called “The End of Silence” and tells the story of Charlie Chaplin’s challenge to make “The Great Dictator” – a talkie – against much resistance and fear in Hollywood. Therefore this is my final Random Musings for this magazine. I’ve been writing them for several years, am grateful for the opportunity given to me by Todd Abrams, editor and publisher. Writing for the magazine – both Musings and the artist profiles – made me set priorities. Also known as deadlines. And I never missed a deadline. Close a couple of times, but managed to
Begin a new blog about jazz and me, and maybe one about my life in advertising, although the audience for that is surely smaller than for Perry Como. (Google him). One more thought: Save this issue of County Living. It might become a collector’s item.
PAT IO ROOFI N G
PATI O C OV ER S
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Surround Your Home with the Landscaping It Deserves We can enhance your home with creative landscape design and installation: patios, walls, walkways, water features, rock gardens, firepits & fireplaces, stone and mortar. Also, erosion and drainage control and bio-swale solutions. All lawn care, plant bed maintenance, mulching and leaf clean-up. Snow plowing and ice management. Let us create a custom design and maintenance plan for your unique needs.
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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
Giving Shade to the Sunny Sides of Your Home
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our home may have a shady side; not the shady character kind of shady, but the less glare and heat kind of shady that’s preferred in summer. Understanding a few basics about your home will help you determine how making your home’s sunny sides shadier may improve your comfort and reduce your utility bills. Win-win!
For most of us already in a home, we need to understand our windows and how to make the best of them. First, determine which side your windows are on – north, south, east and west. Then note the amount of light, glare and heat that comes in these windows. If you’d like to learn more about the heat/cool cycle of a home in the summer and the effects of the sun, I found this great article online: https://bestlife52.com/ home/cut-energy-bill-shading-landscaping/.
We work so hard to build a home – foundation, walls, and a roof - to protect us from the elements – wind, rain, heat and cold – only to punch holes in it to let in light. Yet, that natural light is so important to our health and well-being. While having good quality, well installed windows is important, where your windows are usually affects your comfort (or discomfort) more.
The windows on the east and the west side, especially if they are due east and west, bring in a lot of direct sunlight and often a harsh glare, especially as the sun rises and sets. These may be good windows to put exterior solar screens on or some type of window treatment to cut down the direct sunlight and glare. I’ve used the tilt-able vane blinds. I tilt the blinds up so that the light coming in the windows reflects off the ceiling for a softer light. Another option is cellular shades. They let in light, cut the glare, and insulate! Windows are one of the places that a lot of your cooling is lost during hot weather.
For a new construction or deeply remodeled home, choosing where the windows are placed directionally and in height will help control the heat and light entering the home. This approach – passive solar - optimizes the use of the sunlight to help heat and light the home in the winter and cool and shade it in the summer.
The south side of your home will get the most sun at any time of the year, so in the summer, you will need to shade as much of it as you can. Roof overhangs will be a solution if you are building or remodeling. Or you could use exterior solar screens, awnings, trees, or trellises with plants growing on them to make some shade for an existing home. By installing light-colored window shades or blinds you can reduce solar heat gain by as much as 50 percent. Any method of stopping the heat and light from reaching the window will offer the most shade and heat protection. Often, a simple answer is the easiest. At the very least, close south
and west-facing curtains and blinds for windows that have direct sunlight. Well-chosen and well-placed window coverings can make a huge difference for the sunny sides of your home. Awnings, especially on south-facing windows, provide shade from the outside. Retractable awnings reduce the heat and glare when they are open, and can be retracted when more light or heat is desired. Tightly woven screens or shades can stop more than 75 percent of the sun’s heat from reaching your windows, and most still let the view in. Exterior solar shades are a great option as well and there are many varieties available. We installed a solar shade on a picture window in a 3-story stairwell and in summer it cooled the space by about 5 degrees, making the space much more comfortable.
SHADE YOUR WORLD in St Louis
installs automated exterior solar shades and retractable awnings, both of which especially solar shades - can reduce interior temperatures and energy expenditures in summer. “Shade is Effective: Shade is four times as effective as the best windows, tinting, or blinds. If you can stop the harmful sun rays from passing through your windows with outdoor solar screens or with awnings, you will eliminate the inhome greenhouse effect. You will stop the Heat, stop the Glare, and stop the Fading.” From the Shade Your World website www. shadestl.com.
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5/25/22 12:32 PM
EMBEDDED GRAVEL FINISH
fontanapaving@sbcglobal.net
The Basement Egress Window
F
inishing your basement for special knowledge, tools, or extra force is the most efficient way beyond that 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 atneed to make sure that there are two exits for tractive feature, with emergencies. If your home flowers and plants on the does not have a walk-out terraced steps. The overall basement, this usually ADD SAFET Y, enhancements of safety, requires an escape, or APPEAL AND light, ventilation and more egress window. attractive appearance add VALUE TO YOUR It is important to know to the value of your home. your local residential HOME . One company that is building codes for egress. expert in structural St. Louis County building basement improvements is permit requirements Woods Basement Systems. state that all basement They will be happy to give bedrooms must have one you a free estimate to inwindow for emergency escape with a sill no stall a basement egress window in your home. more than 44 inches above the floor and a You can call them at 866-735-1890 or learn minimum clear opening area of 5.0 square more at betterbasementvalue.com. feet. The emergency escape window must be operable from the inside without need
The Newer, Better Way to Make and Keep Garage and Basement Floors Attractive
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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.
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. 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. 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 Summer discounts. For a free estimate you can call them at 636-946-6464 and learn more about them at www.archwaycoatings.com.
Waterproof Surfaces Transform Your Basement into Finished Living Space You Can Enjoy
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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.
Live Better at Home
A new way to design and remodel Dana King Design Build Remodeling excels in cohesive and collaborative design, managing the details and eliminating the hassles of remodeling. Projects range from home furnishings to home additions. They can answer your questions about which improvements create the best value, phasing the project and funding options. Visit DANAKING.COM to view our projects and to schedule an inspiring in-home or virtual consultation, or call
314-914-2840
NARI Certified Remodeler – committed to excellence in design, quality, on-time delivery, cleanliness and communication. Over 200 online reviews.
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.
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OVERHEAD STORAGE
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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.
Your Home as a Work of Art
Trotter Art, a leading professional studio, is offering a unique artwork of your home on canvas with a custom “painted” textured effect. This is a 32-inch, gallery-wrapped piece with 1½” depth.
Our professional photographer will come to photograph your home in the most enhancing light of the day, transform the image to look like an oil painting, and print it on canvas. All for $750. Framing is also available. Makes a great housewarming gift.
Call us today to schedule your home as a work of art.
314-878-0777
Luxury Living at The Enclave Villas Exclusive new development from Simon Homes in Frontenac and Westwood
We are proud to offer a limited number of custom villa homes off Spoede Road at The Enclave in Frontenac and The Village of Westwood. This selection of elegant, freestanding villa designs include 3-car side-entry garages and full masonry exteriors, up to 4,090 square feet of living space, master suite and secondary bedroom suite on the main floor, open floorplans and spacious luxury living. VIP line reservations will be accepted through June, when VIPs will have the opportunity to place a deposit on a particular homesite. Estimated starting prices from the $1,200,000’s. For information or to place your VIP line reservation, call Tracie Baum at
(314) 469-4888 or (314) 713-6050
THE SMART CHOICE FOR UPDATING YOUR KITCHEN
Consider Refacing Instead of Replacing
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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.
WOOD FLOORS CAN LOOK LIKE NEW!
The experts at WOODLIFE can restore and maintain the natural beauty of your wood floors, just like new!
UNHAPPY WITH YOUR WOOD FLOOR’S APPEARANCE? Wax buildup traps dirt and yellows, we remove it with a professional cleaning. Light wear within the protective finish is screened and re-coated, usually in one day with no dust and minimal odors. Damaged, heavily worn or deeply scratched floors are sanded, re-stained and resealed, in just a few days.
BEFORE
AFTER
Marble | Granite | Tile & Grout | Terrazzo | Travertine | Stone | Wood | Concrete
888-570-7090 Call Now for a FREE Quote!
STLOUIS-OFFICE@MARBLELIFE.COM
www.MARBLELIFE-STLOUIS.com 150+ HHHHH Google Reviews
Getting Your Floors to Look Their Best
S O LU TI O N S O F F E R E D BY M A R B L E LI F E ® I M P R OV E A P P E A R A N C E A N D AVO I D CO S T LY R E P L AC E M E N T.
CONCRETE CAN LOOK SPECTACULAR
Plain, stained, chipped or cracked concrete on porches, pool decks, in garages or basements is subject to further staining and damage. But it can be made to look spectacular. MARBLELIFE EnduraCrete can densify, seal, polish, grind, color and design concrete to look like premium flooring, much easier to maintain than untreated concrete. They can also be treated to be anti-slip without sacrificing design or appearance. TILE AND GROUT SHOULD BE CLEAN AND HEALTHY
Stained grout and tile are frustrating to clean and can be unhealthy. If your shower or floor seal or grout fails, it is soaking up dirt and bacteria with each mopping.
More than just looking better, a new, uniform color for tile and grout can be healthier. Marblelife provides a clean gloss appearance that will not harbor mold or mildew, and provides a layer of protection across grout lines. STONE FLOORS NEED PERIODIC MAINTENANCE
Marble, granite, terrazzo, limestone, travertine and other natural stone are luxurious and durable surfaces, but not indestructible. Foot traffic and inappropriate cleaning products make it susceptible to stains, spills, scratches and damage. They need proper periodic maintenance to keep their natural beauty. Dull and damaged stone surfaces can regain their natural appearance with professional cleaning, restoration and
protection that also minimize potential for future damage. WOOD FLOORS CAN LOOK LIKE NEW
Wax buildup on wood floors traps dirt and yellows, but it can be removed with a professional cleaning. Light wear within the protective finish is screened and re-coated, usually in one day. Damaged, heavily worn or deeply scratched floors call for sanding, re-staining and re-sealing, taking a few days. Regardless of what problems you encounter with concrete, tile, stone or wood floor surfaces, there is a solution. You can call the professionals at MARBLELIFE St. Louis at 888-254-9488 for a free at-home estimate, or visit their website marblelife-stlouis.com.
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Simon Homes offers so much more in luxury villa living. As a custom builder, they accord exceptional freedom to personalize your residence to suit your lifestyle. Working with their architects and staff, owners can expand and make structural changes as desired. You’ll choose from a variety of exterior colors, and up to eight hours of consultation with their interior designers is included in the price of your home.
New Custom Villas from Simon Homes in Frontenac/Westwood One of the region’s most respected custom builders, Simon Homes, offers an unparalleled lifestyle to the privileged villa owners in The Enclave located in Frontenac and The Village of Westwood, just minutes from anywhere, near shopping, medical facilities, country clubs and fine restaurants.
the $1,200,000’s, this prestigious collection offers up to 4,090 square feet of living space, with a master suite and secondary bedroom suite on the main floor of all plans. Deeppour foundations allow for completion of a lower level and as much as 2,000 additional square feet of living space.
The Enclave portfolio showcases a selection of elegant, free-standing villa designs – five ranches and a 1.5-story plan, all with 3-car side-entry garages and full masonry exteriors. Estimated starting prices from
Inside and out, Simon Homes focuses on open styling and spacious luxury living. Clients choose from eleven generously proportioned home sites, and ownership of the villas is fee simple.
Carefree living is another significant asset in the villas. Home security systems are included, as are attractive landscaping and irrigation. Yard care services and snow removal from driveways, sidewalks, and porches are provided to owners. Serene, sophisticated, and stress-free, your villa lifestyle in The Enclave is a new dimension in prestige living. According to Barry Simon, President of Simon Homes, interest in joining the VIP waiting list has been brisk. They plan to accept VIP line reservations through June, at which time the VIPs will have the opportunity to place a deposit on a particular homesite in the order in which they appear on the waiting list. For information you can contact Tracie Baum at (314) 469-4888 or (314) 713-6050.
Bring nature home with your own Water Garden 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 Visit our portfolio at www.re-createnature.com Facebook.com/ NaturesReCreations
instances, the configuration of a backyard will naturally lend itself to a certain pool footprint but, in most cases, the shape of the pool is merely determined by the personal preferences of the homeowner. For the past decade or so, the majority of Baker Pool’s clients opted for freeform designs that emulated a more natural setting. Stone veneers and copings, boulder water features, and surrounding landscaping were all common components used to help further enhance this organic ambience.
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The Hottest Pool Design Trends of 2022
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s with clothing and hairstyles, trends in the swimming pool industry tend to fluctuate and evolve over time. What’s considered “in-style” one season may not necessarily be popular the next. This year’s swimming pool design trends are all about straight lines, clean materials, and unique features.
SMALL POOLS FOR THE WIN Small pools, sometimes referred to as plunge pools or cocktail pools, are all the rage this year and are ideal for backyards that are oddly shaped or have limited space. Long gone are the days where a substantially sized backyard was a requirement to own a swimming pool. Some small pools have jets and heaters that can be turned on and off, allowing them to essentially function as both a pool and a spa. These types of small pools, often called spools, allow homeowners to keep water temperature refreshingly cool on warm days while cranking up the heat in the evenings or on chillier afternoons.
Due to their smaller size, small pools are easier to clean and maintain than traditional swimming pools. They also require less chemicals, making them a very cost-effective option for those keeping an eye on their budget.
“We work in some areas, mainly closer to the city, where the homes are absolutely beautiful, but the backyards are rather narrow,” says Baker Pool designer Joe Morrison. “For these homeowners, a small pool is the perfect option. We’re very mindful about designing these pools in a way that takes advantage of the available space without making the backyard seem too overcrowded.” GEOMETRIC IS BACK, BABY! While freeform pools are still common, geometric pools with clean, straight lines are making a huge comeback. In some
However, in more recent years, homeowners have started to gravitate back to more geometric designs. Geometric pool designs can be as simple as a traditional rectangle or much more complex shapes, but they all incorporate straight lines and crisp corners. UPGRADED MATERIALS CREATE AN ELEGANT FINISHED PRODUCT With the rise in popularity of home remodeling and DIY shows on TV, homeowners have become much savvier about the many different material options available to them. This year more than ever, the designers at Baker Pool Construction have noticed an increase in demand for upgraded materials, particularly when it comes to pool coping and patios. “For many years, most of the pools that we built had concrete cantilever coping that transitioned immediately into the concrete pool deck,” says lead designer Rob Warren. “For those customers who wanted something a little more ornate, flagstone coping was the conventional alternative.” Now, the designers at Baker Pool Construction are finding that an increasing number of customers are requesting more elaborate, refined materials, such as cut stone or travertine, for the coping and decks surrounding their pools. While these materials come at an additional cost, they also produce an extremely polished, contemporary finished product. LIGHT FINISHES ARE BACK ON TOP
One of the biggest advantages of choosing a concrete pool over vinyl or fiberglass is that concrete pools are completely custom designed. Many homeowners find this very enticing, as it means that
they have the ability to make all design decisions and customize the pool to fit their personal style. Perhaps the most significant factor when it comes to the overall appearance of the finished pool is the interior plaster color. At Baker Pool Construction, all pools are plastered with a pebble finish that contains small pebbles of varying sizes and colors. These finishes range from very light to very dark, with many diverse shades of blues and greens in between. Not surprisingly, the color of the pebble is the biggest determining factor when it comes to the resulting water color in the pool. For the past few years, darker finishes have been the most favored among the clientele at Baker Pool Construction. However, this year the design team at Baker has started to see a shift back towards lighter finishes that produce a more classic light blue or turquoise water color. UNIQUE FEATURES ENHANCE WOW FACTOR Baker Pool Construction specializes exclusively in custom, concrete pools. They occupy a distinct niche in the market and cater to a very specific, sophisticated group of St. Louis homeowners. “Most of our customers want more than just a simple swimming pool,” says sales manager Ken Mikes. “They see a pool as an extension of their home. They’re looking for something that will turn heads and make an impression; something that they can be proud of.” This desire leads some clients to request unique design features – ones that aren’t frequently seen – even with concrete pools. TANNING LEDGES & SWIM-UP BARS
Once upon a time tanning ledges and swim-up bars were amenities that could usually only be found in swimming pools at extravagant luxury resorts. But as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to drag on, an increasing number of homeowners are choosing to add these once uncommon features to their private backyard pools. This is in large part because many families are choosing to forego their summer travel plans and are thus spending more time at home. Tanning ledges and swim-up bars are both fantastic for entertaining, as they provide a place for people to congregate and mingle in the water. FIRE & WATER FEATURES
“Water and fire features have always been a common way to increase wow factor,”
says designer Ryan Taylor, “but now we’re starting to see clients who want to add more and more. Instead of a single sheer descent waterfall or a couple of scuppers, customers are requesting full-blown feature walls that incorporate a combination of different water and fire features.” And speaking of fire… Water and fire have gone together since the beginning of time. There are few features that manage to make as big of an impression as fire bowls and fire pits and, as such, they have always been a popular addition to concrete pools. Like with other design elements, fire bowls and fire pits come in a variety of colors and styles, so they can be customized to match the customer’s home and individual tastes. Traditionally, fire pits are installed apart from, but in close proximity, to the pool. Large natural boulders, benches, and/ or outdoor furnishings are then added to provide seating. Now, a lot of homeowners are taking this a step further and requesting a design with the fire pit on one edge of the pool and concrete benches for seating in the pool itself. Not only is this placement unique and aesthetically pleasing, but it also allows both people in the pool and those around the pool to socialize together around the fire. CONCRETE SPAS Concrete spas are certainly nothing new – Baker Pool Construction has been building inground, concrete spas along with their pools for over 50 years. When attached to the pool, spas are customarily raised so they spill into the swimming pool. However, this year the trend seems to be designing spas that aren’t raised, but are rather flush with the pool. “Flush spas look very modern and sleek,” says designer Eric Held. “Raised spas and flush spas are both beautiful to look at. Again, it’s really just a matter of which style the customer prefers. The one thing homeowners need to keep in mind if they’re considering a flush spa is that it can’t be kept open independently from the pool. So, if they want to be able to use the spa in the wintertime, they will need to keep the entire pool open throughout the winter as well.” How do you feel about these current design trends? To schedule a consultation to discuss the possibilities for your own backyard, you can call (636)519-POOL or visit their website at www.bakerpoolconstruction.com.
What Do Homeowners Want in a Water Garden? Part II
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any people dream about having a water feature in their yard, but don’t know where to start or how to choose a water gardening specialist to help them achieve that dream. Getting a water feature designed and built should be a great experience from beginning to end.
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Here are some more comments from clients about Nature’s Re-Creations and owner Chris Siewing:
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TRANSFORMING AN UNAPPEALING PART OF A YARD
“Our project was relatively small, in a spatially constrained and frankly, unappealing part of our yard. Chris transformed it completely. He has an innate ability to listen carefully and then create and realize your own dream. His perspicacity regarding nature results in an interpretation that is better than anything that you could conjure. He really has an eye for proportion and artistry; the result is stunning. Consequently, I feel that the feature that he made for us is the most beautiful that I have seen because it was uniquely crafted according to our hopes and needs.
Added to this, he has an excellent team of dedicated and hardworking individuals. Chris kept us apprised of everything as it unfolded. He personally showed up and was involved in the installation. I have done many projects in our home over 23 years but this one surpassed my expectations and has brought great pleasure.”
already had the same idea as if they were reading my mind and were happy to figure out to make it happen.” –Lori S. & Geri R. REPLACING A PROBLEM WATER FEATURE
“I manage a nature center facility in Kirkwood, MO. It is extremely important to us to be good stewards of our natural resources, and to educate others to do the same. Wise use is a consistent theme throughout the exhibits as well as how individuals can help in their own back –Linda K. yards.
POOL TO POND AND FISH POND REDESIGN AND RENOVATION
“Originally, we were only going to have Nature’s Re-Creations replace the pond and waterfall we built ourselves. We had dreamed of replacing the pool as well but thought it would be too expensive to turn it into a natural swim pond that resembled Chris’ style of water gardens. We wanted our yard to resemble the cliffs and streams you often find while driving through the country or walking in the woods. After checking out Chris’ backyard we knew we had found the right guy. Our pool to pond project was immediately followed by the fish pond redesign and renovation.
We had a small, block style waterfall that was falling and was no longer repairable. We were adding water daily and decided replacement was the best option. Chris listened carefully to our ideas and never “told” us what we wanted. He was honest about what would work and said he could deliver our vision. After visiting some of his work sites, I was convinced. I don’t hesitate to recommend Chris to anyone looking for this type of work. He thoroughly knows his materials and business, and not only does fantastic work, but with courtesy and respect. His follow through and follow up is unsurpassed. Thank you, Nature’s Re-Creations, for giving us the perfect feature!” –Tamie Y.
The best part of the project for me was that any design idea I had, while watching the project come together, Chris and his crew
CHRIS SIEWING is owner and president of Nature’s Re-Creations, nationally recognized as a Master Certified Aquascape Contractor, Missouri’s first Water Garden Excellence Member, first-place winner of the North American Pond and Waterfall Building Competition and in the elite group of Aquascape Artists of the Year recipients. Nature’s Re-Creations is the area’s leading designer and installer of custom water features. For over 16 years, they have
been committed to high quality design, workmanship and customer satisfaction. Nature’s Re-Creations stays on the cutting edge of technology and installation techniques to continually improve their projects and the environment. To discuss a water feature project, you can contact Chris Siewing at 636-223-2330 or check out their gallery and fill out the contact form at www. Re-createNature.com or view their portfolio at Facebook.com/NaturesReCreations.
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Native Planting Conversions are Solutions for Dull or Problem Landscapes TH OS E AR E A S B ECO M E B E AUTI F U L S E LF - MANAG I N G NATU R E SC AP E S
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Instead, you can convert that part of your lawn to a naturescape meadow, an expanse of native plant varieties that doesn’t require mowing, chemicals or even watering. Create a diverse array of perennial plantings, including beautiful wildflowers that bloom from April through October and come back better year after year. This organic, self-managing meadow eliminates exhaust emissions, air and ground pollution, herbicides and pesticides. And your natural
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f there is a section of your lawn that needs to be mowed, fertilized and weed killers applied, and after all that is still just ordinary, uninteresting lawn, there is an alternative that is worth considering.
prairie will absorb water and reduce erosion problems. The result of this conversion is an ever-changing naturescape that improves your quality of life by attracting birds, butterflies, hummingbirds and other pollinators, attractions that enhance your home’s connection with nature. If you have sections of lawn under trees where grass just doesn’t seem to consistently grow, or that are over-exposed to sun where grass burns out, you can convert them to mulched perennial gardens. You can eliminate the frustration of seeing
grass in those areas that may start out looking nice in the spring, but by mid-summer has worn away to bare dirt where crabgrass and weeds quickly fill in. Instead, you can have creative arrays of bluebells, groundcover ginger, Ohio horsemint, white anemone and other native perennials that will thrive and with just once-a year composting will burst out of the ground into a beautiful variety of colors and shapes year after year. There are also economic benefits: in those areas you have eliminated mowing, fertilizing, weed killers and upkeep. And, real estate professionals will confirm that these plantings increase property values. If you have wooded borders that are overgrown with honeysuckle, kudzu and other invasive species, you can replace those with attractive native shrubs and flowering trees. Eliminating these dense clusters of gnarled plants will open up areas of your yard to sunlight, providing more pleasant views and a neater appearance for your yard. You will be amazed at the difference a professional crew can make in tackling these areas, and how attractive they can become with planting of native shrubs and flowering trees.
STEVE CALLOWAY is owner of Garden Green Horticulture Service. They revitalize and restore gardens, and convert areas of ordinary lawn or problem growth with beautiful native plantings that will make landscapes better year after year. Steve also helps homeowners select the plants, trees and shrubbery that best meet their aesthetic desires and that will thrive in the sunlight, soil and moisture conditions in their yards. 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 garden_green@live.com.
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Upgrade Your Fence This Year
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For improved appearance, safety, durability or privacy, we have the fence and gate for you JB Fence offers a selection of top quality, low maintenance poolgrade fence and gate options. Fence material options include galvanized steel, aluminum, vinyl and wood. All are manufactured in the USA.
METAL ORNAMENTAL FENCE
Montage is a leading ornamental steel fence product from Ameristar, with an E-coat maintenance-free finish and a lifetime limited warranty. Montage Plus is a heavier option. Both come in black or bronze. Echelon is the highest quality residential ornamental aluminum
fence in the industry and Echelon Plus is their heavier option. Echelon has a maintenance free, durable finish that offers a lifetime limited warranty. Both come in black, bronze or white. Photo in lower left is a Legends Decorative vinyl fence by Master Halco. Vinyl fencing is made in traditional picket style, closed picket and privacy fencing. Legends products have a limited lifetime warranty. Custom fabricated ornamental iron fencing and gates can be provided upon request. Call or email today for a free estimate.
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Complete Services to Restore Your Pool Deck
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ver the winter months, grit, mold and mildew stains leave your concrete pool deck looking dirty. EnduraCrete® offers a full range of services to get it looking better than ever.
POWER WASHING FOR A FRESH CLEAN DECK
EnduraCrete power washing, using their own customized cleaning solutions, powers through that black build-up and helps maintain an extended clean appearance. It also eliminates the surface slickness that can result in slips and falls.
BEAUTIFUL CONCRETE TRANSFORMATIVE SERVICES
EnduraCrete provides a variety of transformative services capable of turning dull gray concrete into a value-added source of pride. Everyone can enjoy the pool deck safely without toasting their toes with EnduraCrete Kool-CreteTM concrete coating. Kool-Crete can reduce your concrete surface temperature by as much as 30 degrees allowing your pool deck to be the refreshing space you envisioned it being on
those hot days. If you have cracks in your concrete pool deck, you have movement, which means any treatment is going to need to flex with your property. Most coatings systems are designed for a stable surface, and will crack, check and split with underlying movement. EnduraCrete Deck-a-FlexTM is specifically engineered for such applications with enhanced flexibility. EnduraCrete Deck-AFlex can restore that clean quality cared-for appearance free from cracks and have your patio party-ready in no time. Their concrete repair, polishing, staining, epoxy coating, Kool-Crete overlays, sealing and anti-slip treatments deliver a customized concrete surface designed to meet your desired look and feel. Regardless of what problems you encounter with your concrete surfaces, there is a solution. You can call the professionals at EnduraCrete St. Louis at 877-781-5651 for a free at-home estimate or visit www.marblelife-stlouis.com.
You can keep it looking its best with an EnduraCrete maintenance program and never see ugly concrete again – for pool deck, sidewalks, and driveway with their auto-visit maintenance programs.
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If Your Home is Settling, Don’t Panic. UNDERSTAND THE CAUSES, AND WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT.
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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.
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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.
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Does Your Home Have Uneven Concrete Surfaces? –WALKS , STEPS , PATIO, POOL DECK OR DRIVEWAY?
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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
RESTORE & MAINTAIN THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF YOUR FLOORS, COUNTERS & SHOWERS
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 866-735-1890 or learn more at www.betterbasementvalue.com.
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Exceptional Interior Painting and Refinishing Kathy Arnold Painting & Refinishing is a professional full-service painting company. We provide extraordinary interior painting, kitchen cabinet refinishing and carpentry.
We have over 35 years’ experience and are considered one of the
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What Is Keeping You from Reaching Your Weight and Fitness Goals? A CO M M O N -S E N S E AP P ROACH TO G E T YO U STAR TE D AN D K E E P YO U O N TR ACK . BY B RET KLIETH E RM ES
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 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.
There are two very simple reasons these efforts don’t succeed, or have limited or short-lasting results: 1. THE ANSWER IS NOT JUST ONE THING: BETTER EATING OR LOSING WEIGHT OR GETTING IN BETTER SHAPE. A meaningful improvement in your
weight, fitness, energy and strength is determined by the combination of your intake of energy – consumption of foods and beverages - and how you expend that energy to improve body function. We tend to grasp for one solution at a time – eating better, losing weight, or trying to start an exercise program. Goals for real change can only be met with an effective, integrated approach that has them all working together to achieve what we want. 2. MOST PEOPLE JUST DON’T HAVE THE EXPERTISE TO KNOW HOW
TO ACCOMPLISH THESE GOALS BY THEMSELVES. As with any really import-
ant endeavor, many things you don’t know can keep you from getting where you want to go. There are techniques to help you get started and to make real progress on a balanced exercise program. These will enable you to see and feel results early in the process, without becoming discouraged or hurting yourself. And there are nutritional guidelines for a meal plan to help you maximize the benefits. An effective coach gives you hands-on supervision, encouragement and also a sense of accountability that make sure you stick with your program in the critical first weeks when you will start to see and feel results. With the right guidance, you very soon get in the groove where the new habits become self-perpetuating, and you have the momentum to keep going to achieve your goals. And the really good news is that you will feel better because you will have more energy, confidence and a sense of accomplishment that are the rewards for your efforts. If you have been frustrated by past attempts to achieve your goals on your own, then I would recommend that you not waste another single day. I have helped dozens of clients achieve their goals and I can help you, too.
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F I T N E S S
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.
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et’s face it: most of us would like to improve our appearance, increase energy, lose weight and improve our strength. And we have tried numerous times and using different ways to accomplish those desires: dieting, trying to get more exercise, joining a health club, or buying some miraculous new piece of exercise equipment or dietary supplement.
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EMMA DICKHERBER lost 20 lbs. and boosted her confidence
H Y P N OTH E R APY CA S E STU DY # 8 :
Helping a Boy Achieve a Breakthrough
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
JOAN KRUEGER has 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.
I remember working with a boy who was 9 years old. He wet the bed frequently, and his mother was at her wit’s end. He didn’t do it consciously, but he was a sound sleeper, and he wasn’t waking up when his bladder was full so that he could go into the bathroom and go.
his eyelids so that even though he was awake and could hear me talking, he wouldn’t be able to open his eyes, and that was successful.
When he came into my office, we talked so that I could find out what was going on with him. He felt ashamed and very self-conscious about still wetting the bed at his age. I explained hypnosis to him and his mother in more general terms than I would use with an adult client. I asked him who his favorite superhero was, and he told me it was Superman. I told him that he had his own Superman inside of him that could help him do things that he didn’t know he could do.
After a couple of other examples, showing him that his subconscious mind could help him do things that he didn’t realize he could, I told him that in the middle of the night, when his bladder got full, that his “Superman” would wake him up and he would be able to go in and use the bathroom. Then, he would be able to go back to bed and fall back to sleep easily. His body knew the sensation of having a full bladder and after the session was over his “Superman” would alert him of that feeling while he was asleep. It worked like a charm. His mother called to report that “Superman” made all the difference!
During the session, I gave him the suggestion that his arm was going to be so heavy that it would seem like a baby elephant was sitting on it. He wasn’t able to lift it from the chair. I suggested to him that he was going to be able to move that heaviness up into
Many people don’t think about using hypnosis to help their children achieve changes, but children can be excellent hypnotic subjects. If you or your children would like to achieve changes, please feel free to call me.
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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
A
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
Are you paying too much for your Medicare Supplement Insurance? It could be time to save with Medicare Advantage
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egardless of your health, you can lower your monthly premium expense and still have protection for your savings with a Medicare Advantage plan. And you probably won’t have to change any doctors. Plus, the plan may include valuable benefits you don’t get with your Medicare Supplement and Part D Prescription plan. I am licensed and certified to present all major Medicare health plan options available in our area. Let me cut through the clutter of commercial messages to find your best solution.
I can help you: n Save money on your health plan premium and benefits
Thor Anderson I am a career health insurance executive. For over 10 years as an independent broker, I have been helping my clients save on insurance and health care costs. My services to you are completely free*. I am compensated by the insurance carrier based on your plan enrollment. My impartial no obligation consultation will be at a time and place convenient to you.
n Find a plan that includes your doctors and covers your prescriptions
Call me directly at 314-249-4253
n Find a plan that protects your retirement assets
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n Spouse needs a plan? I offer Affordable Care Act and Short Term Medical options too.
Contact me by email at
Please visit: Thor-Anderson.com *This agent may be compensated by the insurance carrier based on your enrollment.
Dr. Ayse Kilfoy was chosen by her peers as one of the Top Dentists in the St. Louis area
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hen St. Louis Magazine surveyed St. Louis region dentists on who they thought were the best dentists in the region, Dr. Ayse Kilfoy of Woodlawn Dental was up there again at the top of the list for the ninth year in a row. She has been providing healthy, beautiful smiles to the O’Fallon area for over 25 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.” New patients are now being accepted. Come by and take a tour. Find out how much Woodlawn Dental has to offer you.
Woodlawn Dental Dr. Ayse Kilfoy, DMD 608 Woodlawn Avenue O’Fallon, MO 63366
636-240-9211 www.woodlawndental.com
Breathe Easier Using Salt Room Therapy
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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.
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.
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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STORIES, STRENGTH, CONNECTEDNESS,
hope & laughter.
Friends enrich life. And independent living, assisted living, and memory care at a Cedarhurst senior living community help make you or your loved one rich with friends. AND NOW, THE FRIENDSHIP BEGINS. CALL 314.860.9911 TO SCHEDLE YOUR TOUR Tesson Heights • 12335 W Bend Drive • CEDARHURSTTESSON.COM Des Peres • 12826 Daylight Circle • CEDARHURSTDESPERES.COM THE CEDARHURST PROMISETM We promise. If you’re not satisfied and decide to move out within your first 60 days, we’ll completely refund your rent.* *Cedarhurst Promise™ program is only available at advertised community. Not applicable for respite or other short-term stays. Refund is available only if move out is a result of dissatisfaction with Cedarhurst community as documented throughout stay. Complete rent refund includes base rent only. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Please see Resident Agreement for additional details. Void where prohibited.
Getting junk out of your life, keeping it out of landfills. HERE’S HOW WE DO IT:
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Give us a call, and we will haul!
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Our service includes:
Residential, commercial, offices, storage units, warehouses, real estate and property management, construction, curbside pick-up, help for hoarders and more!
We remove furniture, appliances, household / office items, e-waste, and construction materials.
EVENTS
Late Summer 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.
SOUTH G R AN D MAKE RS P OP U P
WHITAKE R M USIC FESTIVAL
Sunday, August 21 southgrand.org
Wednesday evenings 7pm Missouri Botanical Garden mobot.org FR E E J U NG LE BOOG IE CONCE RTS
JAPAN ESE FESTIVAL
Fridays 4-7pm thru August 12 St. Louis Zoo stlzoo.org
Labor Day Weekend MO Botanical Garden mobot.org
TOU R DE KIR K WOOD TRIATH LON
Monday, September 5
L ABOR DAY
G E TAWAYS
July 24 Kirkwood Park Runningintheusa.com
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OPE N HIG HWAY M USIC FESTIVAL
July 29-30 Chesterfield Amphitheater chesterfieldamphitheater.com
IN TH E H E IG HTS
Stages St. Louis July 22-31; August 2-21 The Ross Family Theatre at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center stagesstl.org FESTIVAL OF TH E LIT TLE HILL S
August 19-21 Main Street & Frontier Park festivalofthelittlehills.com
MOSAIC S FIN E ARTS FESTIVAL
September 16-18 Historic North Main Street St. Charles stcharlesmosaics.org
SAINT LOU IS ART FAIR
September 9-11 Downtown Clayton saintlouisartfair.com A CHORUS LIN E
Sept 9-Oct 9 Kirkwood Performing Arts Center stagesstl.org G R E AT FOR EST PAR K BALLOON G LOW AN D R ACE
September 16-17 Central Fields in Forest Park greatforestparkballoonrace.com
KIR K WOOD G R E E NTR E E FESTIVAL
September 16-18 Kirkwood Park kirkwoodmo.org OLD WE BSTE R JA ZZ & B LU ES FESTIVAL
September 17 483 E Lockwood oldwebsterjazzfestival.com SOUTH G R AN D FALL & M USIC FEST
September 17 South Grand Business District southgrand.org
AIN ’ T TOO PROU D TO B EG
Sept 20-Oct 2 Fox Theatre fabulousfox.com
THE BARN AT WOODS FORT The new star coming to Woods Fort this August is The Barn, a brand-new freestanding wedding and event facility that will host up to 400 guests. At 12,500 square feet, it is the largest venue in all of Lincoln County. The Barn offers a catering kitchen, two built-in bars, bridal and groom suites and state-of-the-art audio visual. The Barn is also perfect for corporate events, church retreats and many more special gatherings.
A New Golf Experience at Woods Fort Golf Club AN D S P EC TACU L AR E VE NT VE N U E AT TH E BAR N AT WO O DS FO R T
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alters Golf Management invites you to visit the completely renovated Woods Fort Golf Club in Troy, just 30 minutes by car from Chesterfield. Over $2.5 million has been invested in the course and facility over the past six years, and The Barn, an elegant all-new wedding and special event facility, is coming this August.
G E TAWAYS
THE GOLF COURSE AND AMENITIES
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The 18-hole Woods Fort Golf Course, on beautiful rolling hills, offers family-friendly play that is enjoyable and challenging for all player levels. The fairways are wide and generous, and the greens are average to large, most with undulations. Water hazards come into play on four holes. The course features 6,404 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 72, a course rating of 71.8 and a slope of 129. Designed
Lucy Hughes, President and Principal Partner at Walters Golf Management, also manages Woods Fort day-today. She said, “It is such a privilege and honor to manage Woods Fort for the Thompson and Geeding families, and to be entrusted with building The Barn for them. We have been working for two years on this impressive new facility, and no detail has been spared in providing a first-class venue for those very special events. This is the largest new construction project we have
by Jerry Loomis, the Woods Fort Golf Course is a classic, offering a country club golf experience at daily fee prices. Woods Fort Golf Shop offers the best in equipment and apparel to complement your game. Friendly staff will help you make start times, rent golf carts, and register you and your guests before each round of golf. Lessons are available from the PGA professionals. Driving range, chipping and putting areas are available to improve your game. Woods Fort Golf Course is managed by Walters Golf Management (WGM), the leading golf course management company in the Midwest. Signing up for the free Walters Golf Management Loyalty Program earns you points right away to redeem at seven reciprocating WGM golf facilities all around the St. Louis area. Annual season passes at Woods Fort sold out quickly for 2022 after the course improvements, but you can set tee times at woodsfortgolf.com. The newly renovated Restaurant at Woods Fort is a state-ofthe-art facility with brand new kitchen equipment, including a new pizza oven. The restaurant seats 140 guests, the bar seats another 45, and the Restaurant Event Center can handle 120.
done in over 25 years.” Events are being booked now. For weddings, The Barn delivers flexible packages at attractive prices. Their expert wedding consultants make planning and budgeting easy, which helps you every step of the way to deliver your dream wedding. They bring over a quarter-century of wedding experience so wedding parties can relax while the staff is hard at work for you and your guests. Friendly and gracious banquet team members keep track of all the details and share your excitement. Chefs serve up delicious dining options that you and your guests will love, to ensure even more lasting memories of your special day. Woods Fort Golf Club is located at 1 Country Club Drive in Troy, Missouri 63379. For more information about booking an event at The Barn, you can contact Kelly Dean at thebarnatwoodsfort@gmail. com or by calling (636) 528-0040 ext. 104.
Enjoy a Country Club Golf Experience at Daily Fee Prices Take your game to the next level at the newly renovated Woods Fort Golf Club in Troy. We have elevated the whole golf experience – course layout, new fairways, new carts, cart paths and luxurious locker
rooms, as well as driving range, chipping and putting area and PGA staff for lessons. Our Golf Shop is fully stocked with excellent merchandise. Save your appetite for the newly renovated Restaurant at Woods Fort, offering delicious appetizers, sandwiches, pizza
and generous entrees for lunch and dinner, Tuesday through Saturday 11am-9pm, with Happy Hour 3-6pm Tuesday through Friday. To book your tee time and for the best rates, visit us online at woodsfortgolf.com or by calling (636) 528-0040 ext. 101.
Woods Fort Golf Club H 1 Country Club Dr. H Troy, MO 63379 H (636) 528-0040
Book Your Special Event at The Barn at Woods Fort
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et us bring your vision to life. When you have your wedding, corporate event, church retreat or other special gathering at The Barn at Woods Fort, we are committed to making your big event our big event. Your moment, your memories, our passion!
The Barn, a brand-new event wedding and special event venue at scenic Woods Fort Golf Club, will comfortably welcome up to 400. Our catering facilities, chefs and staff will delight you and your guests. Don’t delay – contact Kelly Dean to start planning today by calling (636) 528-0040 ext. 104 or via email at thebarnatwoodsfort@gmail.com.
Phone (636) 528-0040
thebarnatwoodsfort.com
Wildlife and Native Landscaping Bring the delight of perennial wildflowers and native grasses to your own yard. Butterflies, hummingbirds and migratory birds will follow. GARDEN GREEN provides
landscape design and installation of annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs, soil, stone and mulch. Offers maintenance and renovation of residential and commercial properties; spectacular gardens, identification and removal of invasive plants, rainscaping, deer-resistant gardens and more. Summer is a great time to plant. Call or email today for a free consultation.
GARDEN GREEN HORTICULTURE SERVICE
314-288-5036
garden_green@live.com
EMBEDDED GRAVEL FINISH
fontanapaving@sbcglobal.net
// 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
314.914.0009 | w w w.G a ra g eS o l u t io n s St Lo u i s .co m
Visit SCENIC
MCKELVEY VINEYARDS
V I N E YA R D & M A N O R T O U R S H L I V E M U S I C H PAT I O D I N I N G
AUG 6
Music 4:30-7:30, open til 9:00pm
JULY 30 The Burney Sisters
AFTERNOON OF BLUES & JAZZ with The Murphtones 2-5pm LABOR DAY WEEKEND
SAT, SEPT 3 The Mighty Pines
Ticketed Event 4:30-7:30pm
SEPT 10 Rogers & Nienhaus Band
SEPT 17
Tour, Lunch & Music with The
Murphtones
Ticketed Event
To purchase tour tickets: mckelveyvineyards.com/tourtickets
8901 Hwy YY, New Haven, MO 573-459-6123
MCKELVEY VINEYARDS
G E TAWAYS
8901 State Highway YY, New Haven 573.459.6123 mckelveyvineyards.com
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McKelvey Vineyards is on a 60-acre farm that once produced some of the best wines in the region. During prohibition, the winery closed, and the vineyards were removed. In 2016, owner Patricia McKelvey began the process of restoring the old farmhouse and vineyards to their former grandeur. The property is now open to the public, with an all-season pavilion, event center and guest lodging. McKelvey Vineyards serves more than unique and enticing wines. Their experiences are just as delicious, offering exclusive dinners, exciting day trips, fascinating tours, and weekend getaway packages that you won’t find anywhere else. They are bringing renewed life to this land that is part of Missouri’s time-honored wine making history. Lush landscapes and sophisticated charm compose the perfect setting for weddings, anniversaries, receptions, celebrations of life, holiday parties and more. From intimate gatherings to extravagant affairs, the service is exceptional and the photo opportunities are endless.
STONE HILL WINERY 1110 Stone Hill Highway, Hermann 573.486.2221 stonehillwinery.com Established in 1847, Stone Hill Winery in Hermann is Missouri’s oldest and most awarded winery. The historic winery was once the second largest winery in the United States until Prohibition. Reopening in 1965, it reestablished the Missouri wine industry and continues to produce wines from their own vineyards in and around Hermann.
Tour • Taste Dine www.stonehillwinery.com | 800-909-9463
ST. JAMES WINERY
Founded in 1970 by Jim and Pat Hofherr, St. James Winery has been focused on creating delicious, high-quality wine for over 50 years. This vineyard, positioned in the center of The Meramec Highlands, provides winemaking conditions unlike any other region in the world. The distinctive weather patterns and the unique soil in the vineyards are exactly what are needed to make wines that continue to create fans from around the world. You and yours are invited to take a trip down Historic Route 66 and experience one of Missouri’s oldest and most treasured wineries. From wine and beer tastings, locally sourced dining, events and traditions, there is a little bit of everything at the St. James location. If travel is not currently in the cards, you are invited to visit online to shop the St. James wines and learn more about what drives Missouri’s most awarded winery.
G E TAWAYS
540 State Route B, St. James 800.280.9463 stjameswinery.com
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The property has been restored to showcase its original German American mid-18th-century architecture. Tours of the underground cellar system, the largest series of arched underground cellars in the country, are a must-see. As you walk through the cellars, you will see firsthand how wine is made. The Vintage 1847 Restaurant is a unique culinary destination. Focusing on German and American cuisine, it is situated within the original barn and horse stables. The Sherry House is the event space and often hosts live music on weekends. It is the perfect place to sit and relax with a glass of wine looking over the vineyards and the rolling hills of Hermann.
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Faith Through Fire and Innsbrook hosted a Derby themed Open House on May 1, 2022. Members of the medical community, survivors, and community partners and sponsors were there to celebrate.
“Nature itself is the best physician.”
I
G E TAWAYS
nnsbrook began with a group of A-frames and people who dreamed of an escape where families could explore nature away from the worries of modern life. Just 45-minutes west of St. Louis, with more than 7,500 wooded acres and over 100 lakes, Innsbrook offers families the perfect retreat. The most recent addition to this natural escape is their latest expansion, the Treehouses of Talblick.
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The future of Innsbrook has taken flight, soaring high above the forest floor, with additional expansion in sight. This all-new concept blurs the lines between contemporary home design and your childhood hideaway floating amid the treetops. Treehouse lots range in size from 1.3 acres to 2.3 acres, each featuring dramatic elevation changes with stunning views. While under development, an unexpected new partnership was born. In late 2020, Beth Wilmes, breast cancer survivor and founder of the breast cancer non-profit Faith Through Fire, connected with Innsbrook Resort’s CEO, Charlie Boyce, and President, Warren “Chip” Wobbe, in regards to building a home of respite for patients who
–Hippocrates
needed a break from the rigors of treatment.
“Derby Day was a celebration of the combined efforts of both communities, Faith Through Fire and Innsbrook, to rally in the middle of a pandemic that was fraught with supply issues to build a completely new product and have it ready for its intended respite use within 15 months of our first meeting,” said Charlie Boyce, CEO of Innsbrook Corporation. “It could have been built anywhere, but on that day, we all felt a magic for it being in the middle of the Innsbrook community.” The 1,600 square foot treehouse features three bedrooms, two baths, two separate decks, maintenance-free siding, and elongated windows lined on each side of the great room, providing a breathtaking view of the 146 acres of terrain below. Many elements of the home were donated and many generous individuals donated to stock the shelves and buy items for the home.
Wilmes noted her experience with cancer and the value of respite. “I went through treatment for breast cancer when I was Located in the Tyrolean region of Inns35 with three young children. During my brook, this area offers its own security treatment, my husband sensed I needed a break and surprised me with a weekend get- entrance and is in close proximity to the away. It turned out to be exactly we needed,” amenity complex, Charrette Creek Comsaid Wilmes. “I remembered thinking every mons, as well as multiple lakes, nature trails, and a new pool site. cancer patient should have the opportunity for respite, and that’s how the idea of a “Cultures throughout the millennia have home of hope started. It didn’t take me long long understood the healing properties of to realize Innsbrook Resort would be the immersion into nature. The Innsbrook comideal location, both because of its proximity munity has long shared a couple important to St. Louis, and their amazing amenities, denominators - living in harmony with lakes, trails and abundant wildlife. I knew nature and giving back to its own communiInnsbrook was something special.” ty via time, talent and treasure,” said Boyce. “For us, to dovetail these types of important “The Treehouses of Talblick development programs, with our Treehouses of Talblick, has been an ongoing project for the past is a form of concretizing these efforts. It is two years, and when we were contacted a true representation of the goodness that by Faith Through Fire to build a respite home, the timing was perfect. It felt natural can be accomplished in a way that no other community has done…yet. We hope that for Innsbrook, a place centered on people this begins a movement of respite homes for finding a peaceful respite from everything cancer patients everywhere.” else going on in the world, to get involved,” said Warren “Chip” For more information about the Treehouses Wobbe, President of Talblick, contact one of Innsbrook’s real of Innsbrook Corestate agents at 636.928.3366 ext. 9199 or poration. property@innsbrook-resort.com or visit online at innsbrook-resort.com. The Faith Through Fire respite home is To learn more about the Faith Through Fire the first treehouse respite home and how to get involved, visit constructed in the faiththroughfire.org/respite-house. new development.
The Smarter Technology to Protect Today’s Dog Freedom, Safety & Peace of Mind.
DogWatch offers important benefits over other hidden fences: More reliable and safe signal Customized to your dog & yard Lower cost, longer life battery (up to 2 yrs) Locally owned, professional installation, service & training Lifetime warranty & guarantees Programmable by users Indoor & outdoor solutions Made in the USA Can convert other systems to DogWatch Call or email for a free estimate
(314) 965-9209 DogWatchSTL@gmail.com To learn more visit
(inset here of Smart phone & copy)
SmartFence TM connects to Internet for text alerts
DogWatchStLouis.com
INDOOR BOUNDARIES HIDDEN FENCES TRAINING PRODUCTS
SUMMER SALE RECIEVE
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On The Road
WITH JOHN DRAKE ROBINSON Read this and other stories in John’s book, Coastal Missouri, and more road tales in his other two books A Road Trip into America’s Hidden Heart and Souls Along the Road, available at Left Bank Books. More of his stories are at johndrakerobinson.com.
The Sad, Strange Case of the Missouri Waltz BY JOH N DR AKE ROBINSON
Y
ou’ve heard it a thousand times. At Mizzou games. On TV. Radio.
G E TAWAYS
The Mizzou band begins the familiar strains of the Missouri Waltz. Then the song morphs into a march that brings the crowd to its feet, inspired, hands clapping. The waltz turns into a march because, well, have you ever tried to march to a waltz?
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That’s not the first time the song has been altered. Early in its life, the melody that became the Missouri Waltz apparently got hijacked from its creator. Supporters of “Jelly” Settle, a composer from Franklin, Missouri, claim he wrote the tune that became famous when President Harry Truman played it, and eventually became the state song. Jelly’s not talking. He was born in New Franklin, died in New Franklin, and somewhere in between, he wrote a tune called Graveyard Waltz. His friends say other musicians showed interest in the tune, and matched the melody to words that eventually became the state song, the one Harry Truman played. But Settle didn’t get any credit until he was dead. Settle’s supporters claim somebody stole the melody from this poor guy, published it, made it famous, and took the credit. Even the Missouri Secretary of State’s office has yet to credit Jelly Settle on its
website: “The Missouri Waltz became the state song under an act adopted by the General Assembly on June 30, 1949. The song came from a melody by John V. Eppel and was arranged by Frederic Knight Logan, using lyrics written by J.R. Shannon. First published in 1914, the song did not
Missouri Waltz is buried?” I asked the lady who greeted me in the school office. “Not familiar with that,” she said, “but there’s a cemetery about two miles up Highway 5 toward Boonsboro. Mount Pleasant.” “That’s it!” I said. “It’s up the road on your right. Can’t miss it. There’s a big sign.” Sure enough, Highway 5 led me to the sign. It said: Mount Pleasant Cemetery Burial site of J. Edgar “Jelly” Settle Composer of the Missouri Waltz A short drive down a gravel road leads to the cemetery, a beautiful spot on a sloping hilltop framed by forest land, overlooking undulating hills packed with mature cornstalks, holding their ears like pistols, patiently awaiting the reaper. I parked Erifnus, my car, and waded into the rows of tombstones, all shapes and sizes. My eye kept landing on the bigger monuments, expecting to see the name Settle. I finally stumbled onto a modest stone about collie-high, with a modest inscription: Lee Edgar “Jelly” Settle 1882-1949 Composer of The Missouri Waltz melody So J. Edgar on the sign had become Lee Edgar on the tombstone. It’s just another inconsistency in a neglected life story. Edgar apparently didn’t care about the theft of his tune, but thankfully, friends and family attempted to set the record straight. And Jelly gets some notice, posthumously.
sell well and was considered a failure. Sales increased substantially after Missourian Harry S. Truman became president, and it was reported that the Missouri Waltz was his favorite song.” Even folks around Jelly’s hometown don’t know about him. I stopped at the Franklin School to find his whereabouts. “You know the cemetery where the guy who wrote the
That wasn’t his only song. Composer, pianist, painter and poet David Thomas Roberts reports that “Settle was a big, bald man with powerful hands who began touring in vaudeville at 17.” Roberts calls Jelly Settle’s XL Rag a “gorgeous haystack-of-a-piece published in Sedalia... Let this suffice: it is the ultimate hymn of outstate Missouri.” Sounds like XL Rag could have been the state song. Maybe somebody stole the wrong one. Follow John’s travels at johndrakerobinson. com/blog. His latest book, Souls Along the Road, is available on Amazon.
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The World in Black and White BY G E RRY MAN DE L
G E TAWAYS
A
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quick history lesson. The first permanent photograph was created in 1826 by Joseph Niepce. It was black and white, of course. Photography was for the rich until George Eastman founded Kodak in the 1880’s. Today in this world of selfies, everyone carries a camera in their pocket. So why do I write about black and white photography? Because it has a relevant and necessary place in our world today. It taps into our emotions and allows us to see things in their purest form. It connects us in a meaningful way. At least, that’s my opinion, and the reason I chose these three excellent photographers.
JERRY TOVO The first thing that impresses me about Jerry Tovo is his intensity, both in his manner of speaking and his photographs. An accomplished photographer, he arrived at that position through a circuitous route. Born and raised in Alton, Illinois, he attended Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. Initially he wanted to become an architect, but was defeated by math and other engineering obstacles. He switched to marketing as a major and took photography to supplement that curriculum. Once he experienced the
magic of the darkroom, however, he knew what his future held. His resume’ includes stints with Olin Corporation and a startup studio, The Brass Shutter, later to become Jerry Tovo and Associates, focusing on commercial and fashion photography. In the midst of that and at a particularly hard time in the business, he was recruited to move to Chicago and work for Kodak Professional. His job was to help with shortcomings they were having in that market. “I’ve always loved black and white photography,” he says.”Black and white, to me, transcends color in power and mood. It focuses the eye and mind on the subject without the distraction of color. With digital, I can get the results I’m after more easily than back in the lab days." Jerry describes his style as “gritty.” He’s right. He likes to shoot older people because “they wear their lives on their faces.” I love that thought. He believes the real stories are in their eyes, so he pays particular attention to them. When I saw his presentation at the International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum in St. Louis
recently, I was drawn in by the faces and especially the eyes. In fact, it was that event that triggered the idea for this article. At one time, Jerry considered portraits of matriarchs and patriarchs. That seemed an ideal destination for his talents. But he found it to be too sensitive an area. He didn’t want to say, “Let me shoot pictures of your mom or dad while they’re still alive.” He now pursues subjects that capture his imagination. What does he look for in a subject? “What’s in their faces. Lines, marks, wrinkles, scars. Evidence of living. I want to capture their personality. I believe I can do that best without color. It’s more honest.” Lighting is key for capturing various aspects of the face. He especially puts a lot of effort into the eyes. “It sounds corny,” he admits, “but the eyes really are the spirit of the soul. A person’s life - their work, character, experience - shows up in their face.” Most, if not all of his portrait work now is
done in a studio. He found that shooting on location was too difficult. Too much equipment to drag around. “I have more control in my studio. I can be sure to get what I want. I like to think I’m very good at getting people to be comfortable and relaxed in front of the camera. To be themselves, not pose.” Jerry shared a wish-list with me, one he made several years ago. It included Stan Musial, Willie McGee, Chuck Berry, John Goodman, Nelly, Joe Garagiola and Yogi Berra, maybe even John Danforth an assortment of artists, celebrities and characters. Some of them have since died, but he would still like to shoot some of the others. But accessibility is usually difficult. He admits to a fascination with celebrities and high profile people. “I like people with personalities.” That covers a wide range of possibilities. What Jerry captures in his portraits tells you a lot about that person. It condenses that life into a single, living moment.
VANESSA CHARLOT
Cubans, other Latinos, Blacks – people she knew. She showed her photos to her instructor at the school. “Mr. Farnsworth liked my photos and told me to shoot some more. But he wanted me to use a better camera.” However she couldn’t afford one, so he gave her a Leica. “I didn’t even know what a Leica was.” It was film, not digital, so she learned how to process the film and make prints. “Farnsworth was tough on me,” she says with a laugh. “He expected me to excel.” In 2020, having established herself as an accomplished photographer, she visited St. Louis at the suggestion of a friend. What was supposed to be a two-week stay here with her son turned into a year and half. She found much to like about the city. Her son especially loved Forest Park. Vanessa saw St. Louis as a snapshot of America. “I saw so much good here, but it’s hard to overlook the problems.” She learned that if you’re downtown and take a wrong turn, you enter another world. She photographed some of those problems, and also made contact with several artists here.
Much of her work is in black and white. First, her credentials. Vanessa Char- She also includes color in her portfolio, but believes in the power of black and lot is an award-winwhite – the human figure, faces, groups ning photojournalist large and small, street scenes of action and documentary and activity. She believes color gets in the photographer. She’s way. “When you take out the color, you a filmmaker, lecturer, and curator. She force the viewer to focus on the emotion, has worked throughout the United on the issue at hand. It’s all contained in States, the Caribbean and Southeast the black, white and gray. And I believe Asia. She served in the U.S. Army. Her life happens in the gray.” She also believes photos have been commissioned by the that a photograph eradicates the concept New York Times, Vogue, Rolling Stone, of time. Oprah Magazine, the Washington Post. Finally, she received the International “I am constantly evaluating and re-evalWomen’s Media Foundation “Courage in uating the intention behind my work. A Journalism” award last year. three-letter word – Why – plays in my head like a broken record. Why photogI found that on the internet. Talking to raphy? Why the obsession with literature her showed me another dimension in her that connects the visual with the written? life, a statement of purpose. Vanessa is a Why Black bodies? Why? Vanessa’s first committed artist with deep feelings for job was as an English teacher. She taught minority groups and a desire to show and literature, which is why literary work is tell their stories. so important to her. “I grew up in Miami,” she said. “My parents are from Haiti, so we lived in a high- “The art I make is intentional. The stories ly diverse neighborhood.” I asked how she are personal, and I draw on African-American experience. That, to me, became interested in photography. “We is the foundation, but the values in my lived in a community where my mom did work transcend the specific and address not want me to go to middle school. So I the universal as well. All photographs are went to an art school. My mom gave me a memento mori. To take a photograph is to simple, disposable camera and suggested participate in another person’s mortality. I take some pictures.” By slicing out this moment and freezing That’s how it all started. She phoit, all photographs testify to time’s relenttographed the people around her in less melt.” Miami’s Little Haiti, which included
Top to Bottom: St. Louis, summer, 2020; Civil unrest in Haiti following assassination of President Juvenal Moise, 2021; Vanessa’s son Jacob in downtown St. Louis; Greenwood, in the heart of the Mississippi Delta
Above: Missouri State Penitentiary, Jefferson City; Wilson Arch, Utah; Fox Theater, St. Louis. Below right: Black Sand Beach, Vilk, Iceland. Photo of Tom Tussey below left: Scott Rovak.
TOM TUSSE Y
G E TAWAYS
A western landscape. An ocean wave breaking onto a shore. The interior of an ornate, historic theater. These are some of Tom Tussey’s subjects that capture the magic of black and white photography. “My goal as an artist,” he says, “ is to trigger people’s imagination and appreciation of photography. I go for the ‘Wow’ factor.” Black, white and gray can do that, as he has proven.
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Tom clicked his first shutter about sixty years ago with his mom’s camera, a simple model without settings. Just click and shoot. Then his dad returned from Germany with a Minox - the so-called “spy camera,” about as small as a deck of playing cards. Young Tom was hooked. “I could change the settings for better photos. I took lots of pictures, like neighborhood kids playing softball, sunsets, etcetera.” That camera was the beginning of a long and varied career for him. For the past forty years, Tom has been an enthusiastic and accomplished photographer as he creates a business that includes color as well as black and white. Name it and he has shot it, from portraits and products to landscapes and buildings. In other words, just about anything he can focus on. He also offers personal training sessions, as well as leading photo tours and excursions. His groups have experienced a photographer’s dream, providing access and insight into places such as the Missouri State Penitentiary, the Fox Theater, architecture in downtown St. Louis, and several out-of-state and international destinations as well. His portfolio on his website shows a wide range of subjects and styles. The business didn’t come easily, however. There
were months and years of trial and error, of learning and analyzing - his own work as well as more accomplished shooters. He considers photography a unique and gratifying form of expression. “I can stop a moment in time just by pushing a button. No other art form allows that. I find that fascinating. I’ve always been interested in history but I’m not a historical photographer. I do think, however, that most photographers are saving history.” The great photographer Yousuf Karsh said, “There is a brief moment when all there is in a man's mind and soul and spirit is reflected through his eyes, his hands, his attitude. This is the moment to record.” I asked Tom what he looks for. His response could be a lesson in what makes a great photographer. “If it’s a person, I’m trying to capture that moment when they’re comfortable, natural. I’ve done the homework: where should the subject be situated in the scene, where is the lighting coming from, its intensity. I work on that constantly.”
He talks about the advantages of digital photography. “It is my desire to control the image. Digital allows me to develop, experiment, print and, hopefully, show to the viewer what I originally saw.” He admits that he frequently doesn’t know if the image will be better in color or in black and white. But he’s confident he’ll find out. He adds that a lot of photography is luck. “But you make your own luck by being prepared.” He’s quick to add, “No other art form is as simple nor as complex.” He believes a photo is like a painting or a sculpture. It doesn’t change over time. It’s a moment that can have an effect on people. Tom adds one final thought. “I enjoy the process of dissecting the scene that’s in front of me - how to put it all together to make a cohesive, dynamic, thought-provoking image.” When you look at his photographs, you’ll see what he means. Check out the websites and social media of Jerry (instagram.com/jerrytovo), Vanessa (vanessacharlot.com) and Tom (tusseyphoto.com) to see their impressive work.
Take a fresh road trip. 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 Photos by Cheryl Robinson
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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 For more information, you can visit StLCountyHistory.com
F I N A N C E
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B U S I N E S S
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County Living columnist
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usually affects the buyer more than the seller, but it is an important question to consider when it comes time to finalize a deal. Your buyer may opt for an asset sale to not have to take on unknown liabilities as they would with a stock sale.
There is so much more to the process that most find it is a good idea to use the help of a business broker in this pivotal moment. Whether selling on the open market, or even to family or your employees.
n Is there special licensing involved in your operation? How do those rights transfer?
Have you thought about confidentiality? If the wrong people find out that you are thinking about selling, it can be very damaging to your business. Both customers and employees get nervous when they hear of an impending sale. Even though both are very important to a new owner, and they generally enjoy improved conditions after a sale, an intermediary can insulate you from word of a sale getting out. Will your sale be an asset purchase or stock purchase? How the business is purchased
Some other key questions to consider for selling your business: n How has COVID affected your business?
n Is this the right timing in your industry and in your life? n Do you lease your facility or own it? If you own, do you want to sell the real estate or is leasing to the new owner an option? n What kind of debt do you have on your business? How will that debt be dealt with at a closing? Any debt from COVID relief? Any liens on the business or property? n Is your business financeable? How would a buyer be able to pay for it? How would a family member or your employees be able to pay? What are the benefits and detractions of these options?
n Finding the buyer isn’t just about marketing, although marketing is important. Is it the right buyer? Do they have the funds needed to buy the business, or can they get them? n Do they have the skills needed to operate your business or to take it to another level? n Does the business currently have the cash flow to support the buyer? The unexpected happens. Things turn up. How do you battle through those? What are the options? The bottom line is that there are a lot of moving parts to a business acquisition or sale. A business broker team with extensive experience can make the difference between a sale or no sale. Between a payday or an expensive and time-consuming lesson. Consider your options and interview professionals who can help!
F I N A N C E
S
o, you are thinking about selling your business? While there are many obvious complications involved in selling what is possibly your largest asset or even your biggest complication, it is the not-so-obvious things that make the process so hard. The obvious are things like marketing, sales contracts and such.
&
BY J E F F BACH
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.
B U S I N E S S
B U S I N E S S E S AR E HAR D TO S E LL .
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Why do I need help selling my business?
JEFF BACH is part of the team of top business brokers in this area at Fusion Business Brokers. Fusion Business Brokers combines the highest levels of technology, marketing and professional experience for the needs of business owners. 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. Valuations are free and are the starting point to knowing the right approach to selling your business. Jeff also helps qualified buyers find and buy a business that meets their goals.
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prospective client called and asked if we could help him transition from his corporate job – where he had an IT staff at his beck and call - to semi-retirement in his home office. He needed a new computer, a second monitor, a new printer, and, I suspected, a new router as well. I told him we do this all the time, and have helped hundreds of ‘retiring’ execs who want to set up and work from their home offices. I recommended new equipment and software that would meet his needs based on what he said he was going to be doing. He wanted us to source all the equipment – some of it hard to come by these
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