January 6, 2023

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

I recently stumbled upon a quote by American author Zora Neale Hurston: “There are years that ask questions and years that answer.”

Although we know that life doesn’t necessarily reset at the flip of the calendar, it’s always filled me with comfort and energy to consider each new year a chance to begin again. Regardless of which type of year 2022 was for you, I hope this edition helps you find 2023 to be a year of answers – of healing, of growth, of discovery.

Starting on Page 20, contributing reporter Connie Mitchell speaks with the leaders of Ladue Schools –currently celebrating its 70th anniversary – about the future of the district and what its students, families and staff have to look forward to in the coming year.

For those struggling during these months, Mitchell returns on Page 12 to relay important information regarding identifying and coping with seasonal depression.

Have you made it your resolution to be smarter with your money this year? Check out Page 16, where contributing writer Brittany Nay details expert tips for owning your financial success in 2023.

Wishing you all that you hope this new year to be –and hoping that you allow Ladue News to connect you with the information, entertainment and community you need along the way.

Cheers!

Emily Adams, Editor-in-Chief

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Dream Make Your a REAL IT Y

ByMaggiePeters |PhotosbyChristinaKling-Garrett

Whenlookingtobeginaweightlosstransformation, thechallengesmayappeartobeinsurmountable. However,renownedweightlossand transformation coach CharlesD’Angeloshows his clientsthepathwaytosuccessthroughmeasured, consistentstepsthatresultinprogressbeyondtheirwildestdreams.

“Thekeytosuccessistohaveastrategyinplaceyearround, suchthatthereisn’tanyneedtomakesuddenchangesbecauseof circumstances,”D’Angeloexplains.“Whenapersonisintheprogram, they’vemadethedecisionastowhattheywillbedoingwithfoodand exerciseaheadoftime,andhaveaccountabilitycheck-inseverycouple ofweeks.”

ThisstructureiswhatclientAmandaCainfoundmosthelpfulinher journeywithD’Angelo.

“Ineededthatconsistencyofmeetingeverytwoweeks,checking inwithwhereIwasandhowIwasfeeling,physicallyandmentally,”she says.“Hewasreallygoodathavingthatconversationandlettingme knowwhatIneededtodotohitmygoals.That’swhatIneededfrom aprogram.”

D’Angeloconfirms:“Spontaneityistheenemyofsuccess. Anytimeyoufindyourselfturningtofoodasameansofdistraction or consolation,youareunderminingyourpersonal power.Weight gainisaproblem,butnotthe problem.In orderto achieve lastingchange,youneed tochangeyourmindset, so eatinghealthy food and exercisingconsistently becomesasbasicashygiene.”

Cainbeganworkingwith D’Angeloshortly after the birthofhersecondchild.She hadretainedthebabyweight from her first childand wantedtofindsomething thatwasn’tjustafaddiet.

Now,almostayearlater,shehaslost100poundswithaprogram thathastaughtherhowtogiveherbodywhatitneedsina healthymanner.

“Ithinkhehasaprogramthatcanworkwithanybody–anyage, anygender,”shesays. “It’sbeenenjoyabletoworkwithhim;hemakes youfeelcomfortableinthewholeprocess.”

ClientJohnHerculesisproofthatchangecanbeginatanyage. Thesixteen-year-oldlearnedaboutD’Angelofromhismotherand reachedoutafterfeelinglikenothingelsewasworking.

“I’dtriedthingsbeforeandthoughtallwaslost,”hesays.“The firstmeetingwithCharleswasdifferentthananythingI’dtried.He helpswithbodyandmindandmakessureyoufeelgoodaboutit.

Consistencyisthemainthing;itgetseasierasyougo.”

“Eachclientworkswithmeone-on-one,and eachindividualisunique,”D’Angeloexplains. “Thatsaid,thepatternofsuccessisn’t.There andfundamentalsthatallowa persontobesuccessful,likeJohnhas,andthe differenceisn’tintheprogramitself,butinthe hipeachclient haswithme.”

Inthelastyear,Herculeshaslost 75poundsandfoundthathisoverall confidenceimproved alongwith hisweight.

“Charleshelpsyouso much–notjustwithlosing theweight,butwithmaking youfeellikeyoudeserveit,”he says.“Evenifsomeoneoutthere feelsliketheycan’tdoitordon’t deserveit–theydoandtheycan.Idid andsocanyou.Charleswon’tgiveup

D’Angelotakesprideinseeinghow s’livesimprovewithhelpfrom ching.

“It’swonderfultoseenotonlythe positivechangesintheindividual’slife,but howtheirchangeripplesoutandbenefits allthosewhocomeintocontactwiththem,”

Lookingtomakealifestylechangemayseem daunting,butCharlesD’Angeloensuresthat you’llhavesupporteverystepoftheway.

CharlesD’Angelo,314-495-3228, gelo.com

HEALTH NOTES

THE CHANGE OF SEASONS

By Connie Mitchell

’Tis the season for cold, wintry weather, short days, long nights and the hustle, bustle and stress of the holidays. Feeling a bit “blah” for a couple days in the midst of this isn’t usually cause for concern; however, for about 15 million Americans, winter brings more than just a momentary gloom. Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of major depressive disorder that affects four times more women than men.

“The distinguishing factor is that the symptoms are only present during a particular season,” says Lisa Panicola, a licensed professional counselor with Family Life Counseling and Psychological Services. Although winter-pattern SAD begins in late fall or early winter and ends in spring and summer, a small portion of those with SAD experience the same symptoms during summer months.

SAD is marked by constant depression and loss

of interest in usually enjoyable activities, difficulty concentrating, lack of energy, irritability, and even feelings of worthlessness and thoughts of self-harm. “Winter-pattern SAD includes sleeping in excess, overeating and carbohydrate cravings, weight gain and social isolation,” Panicola adds.

Lack of sunlight disrupts our body’s internal clock, which can lead to a depressed mood.

“Reduced sunlight can also cause our serotonin levels – a brain chemical that affects mood – to decrease, causing symptoms of depression,” she says. “The change in seasons also affects the balance of the body’s level of melatonin, which plays a role in sleep patterns and mood.”

People who develop SAD should talk with a mental health professional for support and a potential referral to a physician who can check vitamin D and B12 levels and prescribe medications, if needed. Bright light therapy is also an effective form of treatment for many people with SAD, and a health care professional can help

choose a light source and provide guidance on when and how much to use it.

“When one’s daily level of functioning has changed, including, but not limited to: an increase in isolation, school or work problems, substance abuse, an increase in other mental health disorders – such as anxiety or eating disorders, suicidal thoughts or behaviors – they need professional help,” Panicola says. “Talk to your doctor about vitamin D levels and supplements to support and boost serotonin activity.”

If you notice signs of SAD in a friend or loved one, let them know you want to help.

“Support them to seek help, ask them what has helped in the past, help them plan ahead, stay in touch, offer to help with everyday tasks and be patient,” Panicola says. “SAD is treatable if you get the appropriate help.” ln

Family Life Counseling, 2190 S. Mason Road, Suite 311, Town and Country, 636-300-9333, family-life-counseling.com

CARING FOR CROUP

By Dr. Heather Joyce

Waking up to your child coughing and struggling to breathe can be one of the most frightening situations as a parent. If you have ever experienced this, it’s hard to forget the sound of the barking, seal-like cough and wheezing.

Croup is caused by a virus and often comes with fever, runny nose, cough and a hoarse voice, as well as difficulty breathing. Multiple viruses can lead to croup, including parainfluenza, influenza, RSV and COVID-19. Symptoms are caused by swelling in the vocal cords. The high-pitched wheezing noise when breathing in is called stridor. Croup can be mild with solely a barky cough or severe with cough, stridor and difficulty breathing.

With mild symptoms, supportive care with nasal saline, honey (for kids older than 1), humidified air and ibuprofen or acetaminophen is appropriate. If your child wakes up with sudden difficulty breathing, though, take these steps:

„ Remain calm, and calm your child. I know – easier said than done – but anxiety will make your child worse.

„ Turn your shower on in your smallest bathroom to the hottest setting, closing vents and doors.

„ While steam is filling up the bathroom, take your child outside in the cold air. If it is not cold outside, hold your child in front of an open freezer.

„ Sit with your child in the steam-filled bathroom for 10 to 20 minutes.

„ If stridor continues after these steps or your child appears blue, is

drooling or is struggling to breath, seek medical care; urgent care or the emergency department are appropriate. There, your child will receive a dose of steroids and possibly a breathing treatment. On rare occasions, children need to stay in the hospital for humidified oxygen and frequent breathing treatments.

If your child falls back to sleep without stridor or difficulty breathing after these steps, then call your pediatrician the next day. A dose of steroids can help decrease the severity and length of symptoms. Typically, croup lasts three to five days, and the worst symptoms are nights two and three, so a trip to your pediatrician can help you and your child get a better night’s sleep. ln

For more information or to find a pediatrician, visit mercy.net/laduenews. Dr. Heather Joyce is a pediatrician and pediatric medical director of Mercy Clinic in the St. Louis area.

NOTES

By Brittany Nay Zach ungerott photo by Jennifer Korman Photography

As you become established in your career, there’s no better way to safeguard your financial future than to save early – and often – metro area financial advisors say.

“It’s surprising how little many young people have saved,” Zach Ungerott, senior wealth advisor at Hightower Wealth Advisors in St. Louis, says. “If you are starting to save at a later point, it’s really a terrible decision because you’re missing out on compounding interest. The later you start, the more you need to invest, and that will eat into your lifestyle.”

Ungerott advises utilizing all available wealth savings “buckets” – think 401(k) and Roth IRA

plans – to help secure your financial future, as well as the often-neglected health savings accounts, as much as your financial situation will allow.

Another misstep among younger investors is attempting to outsmart the market, Ungerott says.

“This was common during [the] COVID-19 [pandemic] and [recent] market volatility,” he says. “The market goes up and down, and it really becomes gambling at a point. You don’t want to try to hit it big and retire; that strategy rarely works. Investing for the long-term is more beneficial.”

For younger people who are starting a family, Ungerott recommends saving for college expenses in a 529 plan – the earlier, the better.

“I always tell parents, as early as you can, saving even $100 or $200 a month can be a pretty big sum down the road,” Ungerott says.

Throughout your career, Ungerott advises saving 20 percent of your gross income to successfully set yourself up for retirement.

“I really try to tell younger professionals, ‘Don’t try to keep up with your friends,’ because you don’t know what’s going on behind the scenes,” he says. “They may not be saving anything – and spending everything.”

Instead, Ungerott suggests living within your means and setting your own financial goals. For one, he says to set up an “out-of-sight, out-ofmind” automated savings account. Additionally, have emergency savings on hand in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as job loss, illness or vehicle issues.

Ungerott also advises never carrying highinterest debt in credit cards: “You will never dig yourself out of that hole with minimum payments.”

As the new year begins, track your spending, and set your savings goals, he emphasizes, adding: “Make sure you hit that 20 percent savings goal –then, if you have extra, put that aside for a trip.” ln

Hightower Wealth Advisors, 1401 S. Brentwood Blvd., Suite 550, St. Louis, 314-598-4060, hightowerstlouis.com

70Years ofLadueSchools

ByConnieMitchell | PhotoscourtesyofLadueSchoolDistrict

A MAJORBUILDINGRENOVATION, THEHIRINGOF A DIVERSITYEQUITY ANDINCLUSIONCOORDINATORAND A MYRIADOFOTHERDEVELOPMENTS HAVEHELPEDTHESCHOOLDISTRICT PROGRESSINWHAT ADMINISTRATORS SAY ISTHERIGHTDIRECTION.

In1952,LadueHortonWatkinsHighSchoolopenedwith550 studentsinsevenththrough12thgrades.Theoriginalschool,built onlanddonatedbyHortonWatkins’widow,Ruth,at1201S.Warson Road,nowhas1,347studentsinninththrough12thgradesand recentlyunderwent acompleterenovation

“Overthelast70years,therehavebeenmanysignificant accomplishmentsoftheLadueSchoolDistrict,”SuperintendentJimWipke says. “These accomplishmentsextendfarandwideaswe seefirsthandwhat ourgraduatesgoandaccomplishintheworld.Ouracademicexcellenceand successeshaveremainedconsistentthroughtheguidanceof ourwonderful facultyandtheamazingsupportoftheLadueSchoolscommunity.”

BradGriffith,thehighschool’ssixthprincipal,isaSt.Louisnativeand graduateofKirkwoodHighSchool.He’switnessedsignificantchangeand innovationatLadueHortonWatkinsHighSchooloverthepastdecade andsaysthebiggestandmostvisiblewasthe$85.1million,three-year renovationthatbeganin2016afterPropositionRpassed.

Theprojectretainedtheschool’shistoricfacadebutreconfiguredthe interiorspaces,creatingnewfacilities foreverything from culinary arts

toabroadcaststudiotoaworkingveterinaryclinicforcomparative anatomystudents.Whiletheacademicspaceswere updated,theschool’s athleticfacilitiesalsogotmakeovers,includinglightingthatallowedfor FridaynightfootballgamesbeginninginSeptemberof2019.

“There’saverystrongsenseofcommunityhere,”Griffithsays.“Overhalf ourstudentsparticipateinsomesortofextracurricularactivityorsport. Wehavestrongspeechanddebateandroboticsteams,andourgirls’tennis teamwonthestatetournamentthisyear.Andwestillhavethatfocuson academics,withmoreNationalMeritsemifinalistsinthelastthreeschool yearsthananyotherhighschool–publicorprivate–inthestate.”

Asthecommunityandschooldistrictdemographicschangedoverthe past70years,thestudentpopulationalsobecamemorediverse.Jennifer RiesenmyhasworkedinLadueSchoolsfor24years;sheservedasa teacher beforebeingnamedDiversityEquityandInclusion coordinator fouryearsago,fillingthedistrict’sfirstfull-timeDEIposition.

“Decadesago,decisionsweren’talwaysmadewithalltypesoffamilies andstudentsinmind,”shesays.“Theprogresswehavemadeisthatwe intentionallysought morewaysintherecent past toensurethat everyone

hasaplaceatthetablewhenweworkwiththecommunity.…Atpresent, weworkwiththecommunitytoensurethatallvoicesareheardinthemajor decision-makingprocess.We’renotperfect,butwe’vecomealongwayand aremakingtremendousprogress.”

Thedistrict’sstudentpopulationismorediversethanmanypeoplewould guess,shesays:“Ourpopulationiscomprisedof55percentwhite,17percent Asian,15percentBlack,8percentmultiracial,5percentHispanicand0.14 percentAmericanIndianorAlaskaNative.”Instudents’homes,65languages arespoken,withChinese,SpanishandTeluguasthethreemostprominent afterEnglish.

Studentsandstaffcanjoinaffinitygroupsformembersandalliesofvarious demographics,includingtheLGBTcommunity.

“LadueHortonWatkinsHighSchoolhasbeenfoundationalinthis communityfor70years,andweinviteeveryonetocomeseewhatwedohere –cometoagame,takeatour,”Griffithsays.“Wewelcomeeveryonetoconnect withus.”

LadueSchoolDistrict,9703ConwayRoad,Ladue,314-994-7080,ladueschools.net

LADUESCHOOLSOVERTHEYEARS

1951

1952

LadueHortonWatkinsHighSchoolopened,blueandwhitewereselected astheschoolcolors,andtheRamswerechosenastheteammascot. Classesmetfourdaysaweekwith70-minuteperiods.

Elementaryschoolsincluded:Central,Conway,Price,Reed,SpoedeandWright.

1959

EastLadueJuniorHighSchoolopenedwith959studentsingradessevenththroughninth.

Highschoolclassesadoptedaseven-periodday,eachlasting55minutes.

1970

Manychangesweremadetothehighschool,includinganewgym,adancestudio,aweight trainingroom,coaches’offices,healthinstructionalclassroomsandamorespaciousband room.Theoriginalgymbecamethelibrary,andtheoldlibrarybecameacomputerroom.

1982

PACTPreschool,adevelopmentalpreschoolprogram,wasintroduced,closingthe programminggapbetweenparent-childclassesandthekindergartenenrichmentprogram.

ProgramsattheLadueEarlyChildhoodCenter,whichopenedintheformerWright ElementarySchoolbuilding,servedchildrenfrombirththrough6yearsoldandtheirfamilies.

2006- 07

Crisisplanningandintruderdrillsincreased.

A$29.97millionbondissuewaspassedtorenovateandexpand K-12schoolsandupgradetechnologyandsafety.

TheLadueSchoolDistrictwasestablishedasaK-12district.

1956

A$3millionbondissuewaspassedtobuildajuniorhighandanewelementaryschool, add12classroomstoexistingbuildings,andbuildnecessaryauxiliaryfacilitiesto accommodateincreasedenrollment.

1960

Abondissuewaspassedfor$3.3milliontoexpandschoolfacilities, buildasecondjuniorhighandpurchaselandfortwonewgradeschools.

1971

Thedistrictconsistedof13schoolswiththreegradelevelsatthehighschool.

Highschoolenrollmenthitahighof1,595students.

2001

A$40.9millionbondissuewaspassedtoexpandfourelementaryschools andthehighschool,plusinstallandupgradeHVACandelectricalsystems.

2013

TheFifthGradeCenteropenedasthedistrict’sonlysingle-gradeschool, alleviatingovercrowdinginthedistrict’sfourelementaryschools.

2014-15

AllhighschoolstudentsweregiveniPadminitabletsforschool useasapartoftheLimitlessLearningInitiative.

Enrollmentcontinuedtoclimbwithmorethan60studentsthanthe previousyear–860morethan10yearsago–makingthe LadueSchoolDistrictthefastest-growingschooldistrictinSt.LouisCounty.

2016-17

AlongwithMaplewood-RichmondHeightsandNormandyschooldistricts,theLadueSchool districtcommittedtoendingtheuseofsuspensionasadisciplinarymeasureforstudentsK-3.

2016

Votersinthedistrictapprovedan$85.1millionrequestthatincludedamajorrenovation andapartialrebuildofthehighschool;safety,securityandtechnologyupgrades; andprojectsinotherdistrictschools.

RETIREMENT LIFESTYLE

LivingL ife YourWay

You’renevertoooldforNewYear’sresolutions–TheGatesworth encouragesresidentstolivetheirbestlives,andmakesdoingsoboth easy andenjoyable.

AtTheGatesworth,wellnessisawayoflife,wheremind,bodyand well-beingarealltoppriorities.Residentscanenhancetheirfitnessroutines withregularworkout sessionswithapersonal trainerorattend oneofthedaily, complimentarygroupclassesinthefitnesscenter.Inaddition,theycanswim lapsintheheatedindoorsaltwaterpool,pluscontinuebuildingasenseof balanceandstrengthwithyogaortaichi.

“Thefitnessinstructorsaresocaring,justlikeeveryoneelseonstaff,” residentCarolMaxsays.“Afterclass,youcanenjoyasoothingmassage,facialor manicure-pedicureintheluxuriousspa,orshowerinthegorgeouslockerroom, thengetyourhairdoneatthesalon.There’sevenabarbershopfortheguys.”

TheGatesworth’sin-housespa,SpaOne,providesacompleteselection ofhealthandwellness,beauty,fitnessandrelaxation treatmentsandproducts,exquisitelypackagedand speciallydesignedforresidents.

SpaOne’smanager,Mary Campbell,joinedTheGatesworth teamin2007andcherisheshereverydayinteractionswith residents.“Whatmakesmehappiestiswhentheresidents telluswe’vemadetheirday,thattheyalwaysfeelspecial afterbeingatSpaOneandthattheyhavelookedforwardto thespecialattentionourtechniciansgivethem,”shesays. “SpaOnerepresentsagroupofcaring,kindandcapable individualswhomaketheresidentsfeelathome.

ByMaggiePeters |PhotoscourtesyofTheGatesworth

MaryCampbell

Theresidentslovethattheyhaveaplacetocome,relax,besocialandget pampered.Westrivetoexceedtheirexpectationsleavingeveryonewithasmile.”

“TheGatesworthislikeaself-containedcity–whateveryouwantorneed, they’llgetitforyou,”Maxsays.“Nomatterwhatyourquestionis,theiranswer isalways‘yes.’Iloveit!That’swhyImovedhere.”

Maxhadresearchedotherseniorlivingcommunitiesbutnonecouldliveup towhatTheGatesworthofferedher.“It’ssobeautifulandwelcominghere,”she says.“Yourheartskipsabeatthefirsttimeyouapproachtheentranceandget aglimpseofwhatliesbeyond.”

Ontopofprovidingfitnessandwellness servicesforresidents, TheGatesworth goesaboveandbeyondinitsdiningofferings.ExecutivechefBrianHardy ensuresthateveryresidenthasthefoodthatisbestforthem,usingthefreshest ingredientsand craftingexquisitemenus.

“Wedon’tbuyanythingprocessed,and webutcherourmeatandfishinhouse,”Hardy says.“Sodiumisaconcernforeveryone’sdiet. Alotoftimes,productsmaybeinjected withasalinesolution,sothat’sadditionalsalt. Sincewebrine, cure andmarinateeverything ourselves, wehavemorecontrol.Weuseherbs toensureeverythingisflavorful withouthaving toaddmoresalt.Ourcooksaretrainedto properlypreparevegetablessotheymaintaintheirnutritionalvalue.Wealso canaccommodateindividualresidents’dietaryrestrictionseasilysince everythingismadefresh.Wecancutsalt,butteroranyotheringredientsthat maybeaconcern.”

“Themenuchangeswiththeseasons,”Maxsays.“ChefBrianHardyandhis staffprepareallkindsofdeliciousdishesforus,andpeoplewithspecialdietary requirementscan order whatever theyneed.The atmosphereandcamaraderie are alwayswonderful.”

Fromfitnessclassesandwellnessservicesallunderonerooftomealofferings thatareashealthyastheyaredelicious,TheGatesworthhaseverything residentsneedforhappy,healthylivesin2023.

TheGatesworth,OneMcKnightPlace,St.Louis,314-993-0111,thegatesworth.com

Products & Services

FOR SENIORS

AccuCare Home Health Care

1185 N. Price Road, 314-692-0020, accucare.com

accuCare Home Health Care is a private in-home health care provider, founded in 1994 by Jacque Phillips, rn, BSn now a family owned business, Phillips and her daughter Dana have a shared mission to give clients and their family peace of mind by providing the highest quality care delivered with compassion, integrity and dedication. Their motto: Our heart. your home.

Allegro Richmond Heights 1055 Bellevue Ave., 314-227-9420, allegroliving.com

allegro richmond Heights provides assisted living and memory care, and each resident receive a personalized experience in all areas, ranging from care to dining preferences. allegro also offers Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) to individuals with mild to moderate dementia exclusively with Washington University occupational therapists.

Cedarhurst Senior Living 314-648-8863, cedarhurstliving.com

With post-holiday thoughts of family near to your heart, now’s the time to learn more about Cedarhurst. Visit the website or call to schedule a personal appointment today, and together with Cedarhurst’s excellent staff, explore how you can turn 2023 into a satisfying, uplifting and reassuring new year for you and your loved ones.

Cochlear Americas 720-785-0703, cochlear.com

By Maggie Peters

Struggling even when using high powered hearing aids? Cochlear implants may be the solution you are looking for to hear more clearly and may help you win back connection to the people and things that matter the most.

Friendship Village Chesterfield

15201 Olive Blvd., 636-898-8500, friendshipvillagestl.com

at Friendship Village, keeping residents well and independent longer is top priority. recent expansions of both St. Louis-area campuses, access to the latest technology and exciting wellness programs mean Friendship Village is better positioned than ever to help seniors live more engaged, active and fulfilling lives.

PHOTO B y CH r ISTI na KLI n G-G arr ETT

CRAFTS Arts & THE TRIO

By Nancy Robinson

These captivating home décor designs are inspired by timeless shapes, patterns and colors of the natural world.

Bliss Studio’s Marion pillow features a natural linen cover that has been expertly hand-embroidered with hundreds of tiny beads. The pillow is 24 inches wide and 14 inches high. (blissstudio.com)

Stickley’s English Arts and Crafts rug is reminiscent of the style of William Morris, the 19th-century poet, politician and designer. The graceful, stylized pattern is based on English garden flowers. This tightly knotted 10 by 14-foot Pakistani wool carpet has 256 handtied knots per square inch. (shubertdesign.com)

Christopher Guy’s finely carved Vigne occasional chair has a comfortable curved back that mimics the shape of entwined vines. Vigne is also available as a settee. (christopherguy.com)

Chill Out

By Katie Yeadon | Photos supplied

Brave the cold with with these frosty ’fits.

Naghedi St. Barths tote, $315, Tuckernuck (tnuck.com)

Cougar Pasha bootie, $160, Nordstrom

SAM freestyle coat, $395, Vie

Alice + Olivia sweater, $495, Vie (viestlouis.com)

Vince scarf, $225, Nordstrom (nordstrom.com)

THE GREAT cardigan sweater, $395, Saks (saksfifthavenue.com)

Ulla Johnson blouse, $425, Vie

KREWE sunglasses, $325, Nordstrom

7 For All Mankind jean, $228, Cha Boutique (shop-cha.com)

Golden Sun embroidered sweater, $280, Ivy Hill

Keepin Knit Real mittens, $85; hat, $135, Ivy Hill (instagram.com/ivyhillboutique)

Birkenstocks, $160, Saks

Personality Pops of

By Alecia Humphreys

When tasked with reviving a bland and boring living room in a 1930s Ladue home, Youtopia Designs owner Candice Wideman delivered a space that’s sophisticated – yet sassy.

“They have a very sophisticated sort of style but are a lot of fun,” Wideman says. “They definitely infused color into the design to create a space that is intriguing, inviting and unique.”

Wideman says the project began by refinishing the home’s original wood floors in a darker tone and repainting, thereby creating a neutral backdrop for the planned pops of color, which is “hands down” Wideman’s favorite component of the space.

“I think my favorite part of this project

is just the colors,” Wideman says. “Even just within the little seating section, you’ve got your solids, but then the throw pillows and ottomans infuse that bit of pattern and emphasize the color.”

This contrast is showcased in the custom draperies, the floral wallcovering above the mantel, in plush pillows and much more.

“In general, it was just kind of a lot of mixing and matching,” Wideman says. “Honestly, I love it. It’s just unique in artwork, wallcoverings, those pops of colors. It’s one of my favorites to date, and everyone seems to just really gravitate toward this one, which is really fun.” ln

Youtopia Designs, 10864 Leebur Drive, St. Louis, 314-556-9811, youtopiadesigns.com

PHOTO B y ann E M a THEIS

Mise en Place

ByAmandaDahl

| Photossupplied

Senior livingcommunitiesacrossthenation are attracting toptalentto serve residentsthroughinspireddiningprograms,elevatingqualityoflifeand prompting an evolution in whatitmeansto care for an agingpopulation.

TheGatesworthrecruitedexecutivechefBrianHardy,agraduateofthe CulinaryInstituteofAmericainNewYork,fromBelleriveCountryClubafter multipleareachefsrecommendedhimfortheposition.“Iwantedtostayinprivate dining,somewherewhereIcouldgettoknowtheclientele,”Hardysays.“Ilovethatkind ofatmosphere.…Igettoknow[theresidents]andtheirfamilies.”

Chefssayamajordrawtothisenvironmentishavingclienteletheyseeonadaily basiswhocancritiquethemandwithwhomtheycanconnectonapersonallevel.

JasonAustin,thedirectorofculinaryexperienceandexecutivechefatClarendale Clayton,saysheappreciatesthecompany’scommitmenttoluxurylivingandtoahigher standardofservice:“I’mabletobeverycreativeanddothingsfortheresidentsthatI couldnotexecuteatothercommunities.”Newtothearea,ClarendaleClaytonjoinsthe expandingClarendaleportfoliounderparentcompanyLifeCareServices,whichisthe second-largestowner-operatorofseniorlivingcommunitiesacrossthecountry,andis itsfirstSt.LouisareasettingandninthClarendalelocation.

CedarhurstSeniorLiving’scorporateexecutivechef,ChristianGullet,describes theshifttorestaurant-styledininginseniorlivingcommunitiesassomethingthat’s reinvigorating industrystandards.

“Itisverycompetitive,”hesays.“Youseethesamecare,butoneofthedynamicsis theamenity[offered].…AgoodfriendofmineconnectedmeandAlmir[Sajtovic,the presidentofCedarhurst,]foratalkovercoffee.Wespentthewholedaytalkingabout identityandwhatisourdiningprogram.That’swhereCraftedwasborn,inour firstconversation.”

TheCrafted byCedarhurst culinaryprogram offered atCedarhurst locationsacross theMidwestisdesignedtoofferresidentsmorepersonalizedoptionsinmeals,including dishesthataddressspecifichealthconcerns.

“Competitionbreedsexcellence; itbreedsnewideas,”Gullet says. “Idon’tthinkdiningis anewpartof seniorlivingcommunities–it’sagiven.WhatCrafteddoesisprovidechoices.

ChristianGullet CEDARHURSTSENI ORLIVING

Brian Hardy

TH EGATE SWOR TH

Photos courtesy of The Gatesworth

PhotoscourtesyofCedarhurstSeniorLiving

[Residentshave]manydifferentopinionsandtraditionsaroundwhatthey’vecometo expect intheirlives. Whenevertheymovein,thatdoesn’tneedtoshutoffforthem.”

Gulletcomparestheformermodelof“scoopandserve”diningoncecommonly offeredatseniorlivingcommunitiestotherestaurant-stylediningoftoday.“It’soneof thetaboothingstotalkabout:thetalentthatyourecruit,”hesays.“‘Let’sopenabox; let’sofferthisoneitem–that’showyourtalentpoolcompletelydecreases.Sincethe rollout[ofCrafted],there’smoremotivationinourteammembers,moreprofessional development andmoreretention of goodqualitytalent.”

HardycontinuestohonehiscraftwithguidancefromthepeopleatTheGatesworth forwhomhepreparesdishes.“Residentsmighthaverecipesoftheirown,andIenjoy learningfromthem,”hesays.“Inarestaurant,youdowhatyoudoandtheymightcome back.Here,it’sneverboring.Wechangethemenuandkeepitfreshallthetime.”

Havingafullyequippedkitchen furtherallowsversatilityinmenu creation.Hardy appreciatesfullcontrol,ensuringthateachitemispreparedin-house,andallowingfor specialattentionto begivento thehealthconcernsoftheresidents.

AustinrecognizesthatmanyClarendaleClaytonresidents“haveeatenatsomeofthe bestplacesintheworld,”hesays.“ThatputsmeonmyA-gameinbringingthecuisine leveluptotheirexpectations.Yougetalotofthatkindoffeedback,and–man!–it boostsyouregosometimes!”

Austinbuildshismenusonusefulfeedbackandcreativeinspirationfromaselect committeeofcurrent Clarendaleresidentsthat meetsmonthly.“Iget tocreatefor peopleIseeeverysingleday,”headds.“Icanwalkintotherestaurantandfeellikea rockstarwhenIcreateadishthattheyreallyenjoy.Youdon’tgettodothatina traditional restaurant.”

CedarhurstSeniorLiving,multiplelocations,cedarhurstliving.com

ClarendaleClayton,7651ClaytonRoad,Clayton,314-310-7187,clarendaleclayton.com

TheGatesworth,OneMcKnightPlace,St.Louis,314-993-0111,thegatesworth.com

JasonAustin CL ARENDALE

Photos courtesy of Clarendale Clayton

Women in Real Estate

By Maggie Peters

Terry Burr

LAURA MCCARTHY REAL ESTATE

314-397-6289 (direct), 314-725-5100 (office), lauramccarthy.com

“I employ dedicated service and countless attention to detail to meet my clients’ needs and expectations in their success in the home buying and selling process,” Burr says. “I treat clients the way you would want to be treated.”

Kathy Crane

LAURA MCCARTHY REAL ESTATE

314-304-6106 (direct), 314-725-5100 (office), lauramccarthy.com

Kathy Crane gives her full attention to each client and provides them with the highest level of service. “Her attention-to-detail is amazing, and her follow-through is the best seen,” says one client. “Kathy is much more than just a REALTOR. She is the ultimate professional and has raised the bar.”

Kathe DeGrand and Cathleen O’Meara

LAURA MCCARTHY REAL ESTATE

314-518-4772 (DeGrand), 314-477-1133 (O’Meara), 314-725-5100 (office), lauramccarthy.com

Compassionate and passionate about their clients and their business, no house is too big or too small to get this team’s strong work ethic. Whether it’s a listing or a sale, they’ll go the extra mile for you.

The Gellman Team

314-336-1991, thegellmanteam.com

This amazing group of women is vital to the success story of the Gellman Team. They have also made it a priority to give back to the community through supporting organizations like Women on a Mission, Nurse for Newborns, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, Teen Challenge, and Susan G. Komen.

Katie McLaughlin

LAURA MCCARTHY REAL ESTATE

314-283-8444 (direct), 314-725-5100 (office), lauramccarthy.com

Katie McLaughlin grew up in real estate alongside her mother, who owned her own real estate company. Real estate seemed like the perfect career and McLaughlin has continued to build a strong client base over the last 20-plus years due to her hard work and dedication to her clients.

Stephanie Oliver & Associates

DIELMANN SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY 314-322-6992, dielmannsothebysrealty.com

“2022 was our most successful year, with more than $50M in pending and closed sales!” says Oliver. “Our commitment to providing white glove service has attracted some of St. Louis’ most exquisite properties and clients! Thank you.”

Rossini Real Estate Group

LAURA MCCARTHY REAL ESTATE

314-303-2137 (Rossini), 314-210-8995 (Gillentine), 314-725-5100 (office), lauramccarthy.com

Integrity and trust are at the heart of every real estate transaction involving the Rossini Real Estate Group. Having worked across multiple price points throughout St. Louis’ central corridor, they believe in providing every client with their very best service.

Sunisa Thai

Chesterfield-based restaurant Sunisa Chesterfield has reopened with a revamped concept featuring Thai cuisine and veteran chefs (and husband-and-wife duo) Silpakorn “Jeff” Tabtiang and Gunsinee “Nhong” Khotraweera as its new owners.

“We’ve been chefs for a long time,” Tabtiang, a native of Bangkok, Thailand, says. “My wife started her career at her family’s Thai restaurant in Chiang Rai before coming to the U.S. I’ve been a chef at various Japanese and sushi restaurants around St. Louis for over 30 years. We decided that if we ever had the chance, we’d open our own Thai restaurant.”

For the past few years, the duo lived in Cape Girardeau, where they cooked at Bistro Saffron, which is owned by Su Hill of Chiang Mai in Webster Groves. When Sunisa Payne decided to vacate the Chesterfield location of Sunisa’s Thai Restaurant, the couple moved back to St. Louis to pursue the opportunity. Payne’s original location in St. Peters is still in operation. The business is a family affair, with their daughter, Nicha, helping out with front-of-house service.

“We took over here and made our own menu,” Tabtiang says. “These are popular dishes from all over Thailand.”

Tabtiang and Khotraweera shortened the menu to give their customer base a more concise selection from which to choose; it features their own recipes for regional dishes, such as khao soi, a curry noodle dish from Northern Thailand. Their version includes a base of curry paste, curry powder, coconut milk, bay leaf, cumin and coriander with egg noodles, fried shallots, chile oil and pickled mustard greens.

Khao nah gai is another highlight and features chicken in gravy with mushrooms and scallions, served over rice with a sweet and spicy sauce. Sriracha chicken is an additional special offering and is made of fried battered chicken breast

pieces, cooked in a sour, spicy and sweet sauce that includes Thai Sriracha, and served with rice and steamed vegetables.

“Thai E-San” dishes from Northeastern Thailand include nam tok beef with grilled and sliced beef, red onion, scallion, cilantro, rice powder and chile flakes, served with a spicy sour sauce. Rotating specials include entrées such as whole red snapper with sweet chile sauce, basil,

bell pepper and fried red chiles.

“These dishes are hard to find and have special flavors we’ve learned to cook over time,” Tabtaing says. “Some of them, like the Sriracha chicken, are things we’ve created with the best flavors.” ln

Sunisa Chesterfield, 17535 Chesterfield Airport Road, Chesterfield, 636-537-9997, sunisasthairestaurant.com

Story and photos by Mabel Suen

Square Roots

By Drew Gieseke

Angad Arts Hotel, the only art hotel in St. Louis, is hosting its most ambitious exhibition yet. Featuring 81 artists and 159 works, spanning a vast range of styles, the 12 x 12 Exhibition includes artwork in, you guessed it, the dimensions of 12 by 12 inches and demonstrates that creativity that runs deep within the region.

Despite this spatial limitation (or maybe because of it), visitors will find that this show is anything but square.

“The submission process was only accepting smaller works – only square,” arts relations manager Vanessa Rudloff says. “Because the visual aspect was all these small little squares, it gave us a unique opportunity to feature so many more artists than in the past.”

The 12 x 12 Exhibition is the Angad Arts Hotel‘s seventh biannual exhibition and its largest since the series launched in 2018. It represents not only a unique take on the traditional art show, but also one that highlights only local pieces. The key submission requirements were simple: Artists must be located within 200 miles of the hotel and works must be presented in a 12-by-12 format. Pieces will be on display through April 2023 and are available for purchase.

“I didn’t curate as much until I had almost all the submissions,” Rudloff says. “The vetting process is like doing a puzzle. There are a few that don’t fit, and you start to see how others may fit together, like working on the corners. In this particular show, I was thinking about how certain pieces fit together.”

The result is a staggering display of creativity in the 146-room hotel. From one wall to the next, onlookers may encounter sculptures alongside abstract pieces, color-block works and even a portrait featuring a LEGO man. Although these works are seemingly disparate, the show takes on an eclectic quality that represents the diversity of the St. Louis art scene.

“There are so many different pockets of arts here,” Rudloff says. “What we showcase at the hotel is incredibly inclusive; there are so many different backgrounds and ages and works.”

Rudloff points out that traditional galleries attract traditional arts appreciators. Although there’s certainly a place for that in St. Louis’ art scene, the Angad – through its programming that includes this latest exhibition – prefers to operate in a looser space for both the artists and onlookers.

Not every submission for the 12 x 12 Exhibition was created by a professional, established artist. That’s what Rudloff says makes the community the Angad has developed through the years so special. Artists want to create, but if they don’t know what to do with their work, at some point, they need a place for it to go. In the past, many have departed for New York City or Chicago for more exposure. But, as Rudloff sees it, the more opportunities we can create for artists in St. Louis, the more likely it is they stay here.

“What’s amazing about having these shows

here at the hotel – and also why St. Louis is so great – is there aren’t that many opportunities, and the hotel really creates something unique,” Rudloff says. “It encourages artists to be prolific and really explore.”

ln

Angad Arts Hotel, 3550 Samuel Shepard Drive, St. Louis, 314-561-0033, angadartshotel.com

READY READERS

REDISCOVERING

By Sheila Oliveri

With the holidays behind us, children might feel a bit disappointed returning to normal, everyday life. Ready Readers recommends reading “Saturday,” by author and illustrator Oge Mora, to help children rediscover that joy.

The story begins with an illustration of a 30-day calendar with the first 29 days carefully crossed out. The 30th day, a Saturday, has a gold star affixed with the words “Puppet Show!!!” A quick perusal of the illustration shows a colorful star on every Saturday of the month, along with a description of a special activity planned.

The first page of text reveals the value of Saturdays: Ava’s mother works the other six days, so it’s their special day together. Saturday activities include attending story time at the library, a trip to the salon for new hairdos, and a picnic in the park. This Saturday’s culminating event is extraordinarily exciting – a one-night-only puppet show.

Breathless with anticipation as Saturday begins, Ava and her mom soon find disappointment at each scheduled event. Mom reassures her daughter by saying, “Don’t worry … today will be special. Today will be splendid,” at each setback. However, even Mom is left crumpled and disheartened when they arrive at the theater and she realizes she left the tickets at home. Ava’s

encouraging response reminds them both that every day is special and splendid, as long as they spend it together.

Mora employs paint, marker and collage techniques to create her unique and inviting illustrations and adds in patterned paper and clippings from old books to make visual textures and patterns. Mora was a Caldecott Honor recipient for her first book called “Thank You, Omu!” and her popularity continues to increase with her latest offering, “All the People in the Red Brick Building.” More than 10,000 children in the St. Louis metro area will receive a copy of “Saturday” to enjoy at home through the Ready Readers Storytime program. ln

paper

Ready Readers shares the joy and power of literacy with our community’s most vulnerable children. Find opportunities to make a difference at readyreaders.org.

ByDrewGieseke | PhotosbyEthanRiepl,courtesyofSaintLouisZoo

TheSaintLouisZoorecentlywelcomedanewresidentintoitsfurryfamily.

BornSept.30,2022,Rhubarb,ababyFrancois’langurwitha distinctiveorangehead,isthefirstofherkindtomakeadebutatthe belovedinstitution–amomentousoccasionnotonlyforthezoobut alsofortheendangeredFrancois’langurspecies.Andatonlyafew monthsold,Rhubarbisalreadymakinganimpressiononthezoofamily.

“She’sdoinggreat;she’sdefinitelygrownupreallyfast,”saysEthanRiepl, primatekeeperandFrancois’langurspeciessurvivalplanvicecoordinator. “Everyday,shekindofbreaksnewmilestones.Theadultsarereallypatient withherrightnow–she’skindofahandful.She’srunningaroundnowand notbeing carriedaround.”

NativetosoutheastAsia,Francois’langursareanendangeredspeciesof primatethatlivesintropicalforests.Theytypicallylivebetween15and20 yearsinsocialgroupsthatmaycontainupto12langurs–oftenconsisting ofdominantmaleandfemales.Thelatterparticipatesinapracticecalled “allomothering,”meaningthatevenifthey’reunrelated,adultfemaleswillstill helptakecareofthebabiesinasocialgroup.

RieplsaysthatFrancois’langurbabiesowetheirconspicuous–andtemporary –orangecoloringtothispractice,whichmakesiteasiertokeeptrackoftheyoung asthey’repassedfromfemaletofemale.

“It’skindofanicetransitionintothemlearninghowtobemomswithouthavingthe babiesthemselves,”Riepladds.“Inthepopulation,wealwaysdotryandencourageyoung femalestohaveyoungsiblings.Neitherofourfemaleshadthatexperienceexceptwhenthey werereallyyoung.Dolly,themom,hasdonegreateventhoughshe’safirst-timemom. TheotherfemalehasdonewellwithRhubarb,andwethinkshe’llbeagreatmom,too.”

Thezoo’slangurgroupisamixedpopulationthatincludesRhubarb’sparents–DollyandDeshi–aswellasanotherfemalenamedSydney.There’salsoamalespectacledlangurnamedMarc,who Rieplsayshangsoutwiththeotherfemales.

Deshi,DollyandSydneywereallintroducedin2014.Rhubarb’sbirthistheresultofalengthy breedingprocessthatdatesbackto2019.Deshiwaspairedwithbothfemalesinabreeding recommendationfromtheAssociationofZoosandAquariumsFrancois’LangurSpeciesSurvival Plan,whichistaskedwithmaintainingageneticallyhealthypopulationofFrancois’langursinNorth Americanzoos.Thisgeneticdiversityiskeytopreservingthespeciesintheshortandlongterm, according to theassociation.

Breedingplanswereonholdduringtheconstructionofthezoo’snew,spaciousoutdoor PrimateCanopyTrailshabitat,whichdebutedinthesummerof2021.Thenewhomeisspecially designedtohousemonkeysandlemursandincludeseightlargehabitats,aPrimateCareCenter and indoorhousing.

“Allofourmonkeysandanimalshaveoutdooraccessforagoodportionoftheyear,”Rieplsays. “Ourbuildingis100yearsold,sothisisthebiggeststepingettingthemthataccess.It’snotjust thesunlight;there’ssomuchabouttheoutsideenvironment–thewind,thesmells.Theirwhole environmentisalotmorestimulatingbeingoutside.”

ThatstimulationisessentialforRhubarbasshegrowsup.Rieplsaysshe’lllikelyremainindoors forthedurationofthewinterandmakeherpublicdebutsometimeintheearlyspring,although somewarmerwinterdaysmightcallforanoutdoorexcursion.Regardless,she’llremainwithher natalgroupfortheforeseeablefuture.

SaintLouisZoo,1GovernmentDrive,St.Louis,314-781-0900,stlzoo.org

THE 64TH ANNUAL

FLEUR DE LIS CHARITY BALL

The 64th Annual Fleur de Lis Charity Ball took place Thursday, Dec. 29, 2022, at the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch. Mrs. Jay Mantych-Marshall was ball chairman this year. Mrs. Peter Fonseca is the president of the Fleur de Lis organization. As is tradition, the 2022 Fleur de Lis Charity Ball, at which 24 young women were presented to The Most Reverend Mark S. Rivituso, Auxiliary Bishop of Saint Louis, will benefit SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. To date, Fleur de Lis has exceeded $3 million in donations to SSM Health Cardinal Glennon. Last year, the hospital provided millions of dollars in free health care to children from St. Louis and the surrounding bi-state area.

Visit LADUENEWS.COM to see more fabulous photos from this event!

Photos by Christina Kling-Garrett and Bryan Schraier, story by Emily Standlee

Mr. Stephen Lee Beimdiek, with Miss Margaret Anderson Beimdiek

Miss Kathryn Patterson Dolan, with Mr. Michael Patrick Dolan

The 64th Fleur de Lis Charity Ball

Mr. Craig Michael Fesler, with Miss Kathryn Nicole Fesler Miss Gabriela Mauriece Milne, with Mr. Kevin Scott Milne

Mr. Stephen Gerard Strauss, with Miss Josephine Elaine Strauss

Miss Alexandra Marie Claude Pelikan, with Dr. Mark Sean Pelikan

Mr. James Robert Busch, with Miss Caroline Margaret Busch

Miss Meredith Claire Douglass, with Mr. John Lindsay Douglass IV

Mr. Douglas Gerard Sansone, with Miss Isabella Marie Sansone

Miss Maeve Maureen Fogarty, with Mr. Glennon Patrick Fogarty

Dr. Elie Cesar Azrak, with Miss Ingrid Azrak

Miss Grace Catherine O’Grady, with Mr. James Patrick O’Grady III

Mr. Yaravi Anthony Lindo, with Miss Miah Eslanda Lindo

Miss Laura Diane Finnie, with Dr. John William Finnie

Miss Margaret Mary Malecek, with Mr. Timothy John Malecek

Mr. James Robert Busch, with Miss Catherine Patricia Busch

Miss Margaret Kathryn Mooney, with Dr. Thomas Francis Mooney III

Mr. Edward Lawrence McDaniel, with Miss Claire Catherine McDaniel

Miss Mary Kathleen Stephens, with Mr. Scott Paul Stephens

Dr. William Joseph Gueck, with Miss Ava Maree Gueck Miss Mary Elizabeth Carani, with Mr. Steven Gerard Carani

Mr. David John Vitale, with Miss Lauren Nicole Vitale

Miss Caroline Genevieve Elsner, with Mr. Patrick Joseph Elsner

Mr. William Raymond Schmidt, with Miss Julia Hagan Schmidt

The 64th Fleur de Lis Charity Ball

The Most Reverend Mark S. Rivituso, Auxiliary Bishop of Saint Louis

The 64th Fleur de Lis Charity Ball

SCRUBBY DUTCH

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