It’s such a welcoming place, andI’vebeenabletomeetsomany wonderfulpeople. Foranyonewhoishesitantabout moving, don’t be. When mygrandsonstoppedby, hethought itwasgreat.Comingfrom a 20-something, thatspeaksvolumes.
DiscoverTheGatesworthandexperience exceptionalsenior livingtoday.Call314-993-0111. 314-993-0111 | T HE G ATESWORTH . COM Facebook.com/TheGatesworth One McKnightPlace, St.Louis, MO63124
Part of what lends St. Louis its “big small town” reputation is its reverence for local history and traditions, and this edition of LN celebrates traditions that not only endure, but also evolve.
With the holidays approaching, food is of course top of mind. On p. 39, assistant editor Daniel Puma speaks with the creators of “Missouri Comfort,” a new book from St. Louis-based publisher Reedy Press, which shares the histories and recipes that have formed Missouri’s culinary scene today – beyond gooey butter cake and toasted ravioli. As the book chronicles the global cultures that helped form the St. Louis eats we know and love, new influences continue to make their mark: On p. 36, columnist Mabel Suen reports on the recent opening of Turkish restaurant Grand Mediterranean, which has introduced doner – a Turkish gyro – to the metro.
Beyond food traditions, iconic metro sites and institutions also continue to adapt. For example, St. Louis hosts a number of currently operating hotels located in historic buildings, whose stories associate editor Emily Standlee uncovers on p. 38. On p. 46, contributor Bethany Christo speaks with Lúcia Lohmann, the first woman to be named president of the Missouri Botanical Garden, new soon-to-be president, who looks forward to building upon MoBot’s contributions to botanical research and climate advocacy. And what could be more iconic than the Arch? Contributor Madeleine Ackerburg previews all the new additions coming to the Gateway Arch Park Foundation’s ninth Winterfest holiday festival on p. 44.
Happy reading,
Ashley Klein, Managing Editor
LadueNews.com
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Ahead of hosting your festive gatherings this year, LN has your guide to metro-area boutiques where you can shop timeless tableware. Visit laduenews.com and upgrade your dinnerware – plates, bowls, drinking glasses and more – this holiday season with collections that serve sophistication all year long.
“Basically,it’saverylargeinflatablethat’s likeatunnelpeoplewalkthrough,andit shows whattheinsideofthecolonlookslike,”Wang says. Thosewhojourneythroughthecoloncanseewhatnormaltissue,apolyp andcoloncancerlooklikeandlearnabout how theydevelop.“Havingthat visualreallyattractsalotofpeople. We tellthem… why it’simportantto get screened.”
Wangdonatestimetotheseeventsbecausesherealizes how crucial colorectalcancerscreeningis. Yet hervoluntaryworkdoesn’tendwhen theinflatablecolonispacked away for thenextevent. “A new thing we’ve beendoinginthelastyearor two isgivingout free coloncancer screeningtests,which are calledFITkits,”she says. FITstands for Fecal ImmunochemicalTest,whichpeoplecantakehome,followsimple directionsandthensendastoolsamplebackinaprepaid package. BJC HealthCarelabtechniciansanalyzethesamplesandsendresultstoWang, whointerpretsthefindingsandreportsbacktotheindividual.
“Iftheresults are abnormal,I’llcontactthepatientandhelpset a follow-upcolonoscopy,”she says. “There have beentimeswhenpeople whotakethetestsdon’t have insuranceor a primarycaredoctor,so we workwiththemtohelp get thecaretheyneed.Iftheydon’t have a primarycaredoctor,ourcommunityhealthworkerwilldirectthemto a federallyqualifiedhealthcareclinicand get themestablishedwith a primarycarephysician.Iftheydon’t have insurance,theyhelpthem
throughtheprocessofapplying for Medicaidorhelpthem get other formsoffinancialassistance.”
Wangrecalls a caseinwhichanuninsuredpatientreceivedan abnormalFITresult.Thepatient was abletoreceive a free colonoscopy, whichshowed a malignancy. “We helpedher go throughtheprocessof applying for Medicaidandgettingfinancialassistanceandsetherupwith oncology,colorectalsurgeryandradiationoncology – allthedoctorsshe neededto getcare.”
WangandotherWashUcolleaguesnotonlyworkinlocalcommunities toraiseawarenessandencouragecancerscreening,buttheyalso collaboratewithstatewideandnationalgroups. For example,Wang co-foundedtheMissouriColorectalCancerRoundtablein2018,which bringstogethervariousorganizationsthatadvocate for colorectalcancer screening,preventionandtreatmentaccess.
Colorectalcancerscreeningshouldbegin for everyoneby age 45, accordingtotheACS.Inadditiontocompleting a FITkit every year,other screeningoptionsincludeundergoingcolonoscopy every 10yearsor completing a Cologuardstooltest every threeyears.Otherstrategiesto decreaseriskincludemaintaining a healthyweight,regularphysicalactivity, notsmoking,andlimitingalcoholand red andprocessedmeatconsumption.
“Fromapublichealthstandpointinthegastroenterologyfield,colon cancerscreeningisoneofthemostimpactfulthingsthatI,asaphysician, can do,” Wang says. “We knowthat,despitecurrentguidelines,onlyabout 70% ofpeople over age 45 are actuallygettingscreened,andalotofthose peoplewhodon’tundergoscreening are oftendiagnosedatlaterstages.
“EverytimeIdiagnosesomeonewithacoloncancerin my practice, Ithink,‘Gosh,iftheyhadjustcomeinto get screened, we could have preventedallthis.’That’swhatinspiresmeto go outintothecommunity. Whenwe’reabletoreallyexplain why screeningissoimportant,andthey get it,that’sthemostrewardingpart for me.”
Request a free FIT kit by calling Siteman Cancer Center at 800-600-3606.
Siteman Cancer Center, siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/colorectal
Dr. Jean Wang, Center for Advanced Medicine Gastrointestinal Center, 4921 Parkview Place, Suite 12B, St. Louis, 314-747-2066, physicians.wustl.edu/people/jean-s-wang-md-phd
By Connie Mitchell > Photos courtesy of Washington University School of Medicine
Nothing evokes the splendor of late autumn quite like warm brown, woodland-inspired accessories.
Juliska’s Forest Walk dinnerware is perfect for fall tables. The collection includes dinner plates, salad or dessert plates, bowls, mugs and four coordinating cocktail plates. The latter are decorated with a stag, pheasant, fox and squirrel, each surrounded by a painterly brown woodgrain-textured rim and packaged in a signature gift box. (marytuttlesflowers.com)
Designer Bunny Williams’ ceramic Pheasant Feather lamp is hand painted in warm brown tones and sits on a gilded wedding band-style base. The one-ofa-kind glaze is inspired by traditional sancai tri-colored glazes that were prone to running during the firing process, with colors often mixing together to create an effect similar to the one achieved here. Each lamp is a unique work of art. Lamp shade not included. (salliehome.com)
The French Partridge is a sweet addition to fall décor. This reproduction is available on canvas or paper in a variety of sizes and frames. (artclassicsltd.com)
It has been an unusual year. Although I shut off my irrigation system nearly a month ago, the garden continues to be very active and alive.
I’m going to have tomatoes right up until Thanksgiving, and most of my herbs along with them. We have all enjoyed this unusual and long season, but I’m ready to hang up my Felco holster and put the tools away for the winter.
If you’re looking for a good project to work on as the garden gradually goes to sleep, think of putting your tools to bed carefully as well. I have invested a great deal of money into quality tools over the years because they simply work better. My strength is limited, so I have to work smart. Good tools make that easy, but they require a little care and maintenance to keep them in tip-top shape.
It is always best to clean and sharpen every tool before winter storage so they are ready to use first thing in the spring. I like to do this all in one big production, but you can work on it a few pieces at a time if you prefer. It is a great Thanksgiving-weekend project if the weather cooperates. Follow these easy steps and be ready for the cutting edge of spring:
Clean the mud off every spade, shovel and hoe. If it’s warm enough, use a garden hose and a stiff bristle brush outside, as this can be a messy job.
Use steel wool to remove any rust or stubborn dried matter.
Sand down any rough spots on wooden handles.
If there are nicks in the blades, use a bastard file to remove them and a blade sharpener to hone the cutting edge. Even a shovel works better if it has an edge.
Rinse again and allow to dry completely.
Coat the clean tool with oil (I prefer boiled linseed oil or tung oil, but almost any oil will work) and rub from end to end with a rag, metal parts included.
If oil penetrates quickly, apply another coat and leave tools in the air to absorb and dry.
Meanwhile, adjust or add hooks to your storage area for safe long-term storage.
After one marathon session with your long-handled tools, you may be inspired to keep them up better during the season by routine minor cleanings, regular hinge lubrication and blade sharpening.
Disassemble articulating tools, like loppers and clippers, which can be taken apart, so that you can clean the accumulated sap out of the joints and sharpen or replace blades. Keep track of small parts, like springs and washers, so you can reassemble them accurately. The Felco Company offers excellent tutorial videos for maintenance of their products, including the ever-popular Felco 2 model, on their website. Felco sells sharpening tools, replacement parts and premium lubricants. One pair of Felcos can last a lifetime if well cared for. If you don’t have any, that’s a great item for your holiday wish list.
THEGUIDETO NAVIGATINGTHE ROADAHEAD WITH PARKINSON’S DISEASE
For sellers and buyers seeking the most knowledgeable, experienced and professional agents in the Greater St. Louis Metro region, they turn to Mary Beth Benes & Teddy J. Johnlikes, serving St. Louis County and St. Charles County.
Ranked No. 1 Small Real Estate Team in Missouri by RealTrends 2023.
Mark Gellman and Neil Gellman
The Gellman Team
eXp Realty
314-336-1991,thegellmanteam.com
Mark and Neil Gellman, and their extraordinary team have assisted over 522 families in reaching their goals in 2024 and celebrated surpassing $2 billion in career sales earlier this spring. With their team culture, built upon a foundation of 11 core values, the Gellman Team is forging lifelong client relationships and making a positive impact on the community.
The expert team of Jill Azar and Jacque Mileusnic help buy or sell your home with confidence. With deep knowledge of the local market, a commitment to personalized service, and a proven track record of success, Azar and Mileusnic will guide you every step of the way and work tirelessly to ensure you get results you deserve.
Integrity and trust are at the heart of every real estate transaction involving the Rossini Real Estate Group. Having worked with clients across multiple price points and throughout St. Louis’ central corridor, they believe in providing every client with their very best service which means putting their clients first and delivering exceptionally personalized service.
For nearly six decades, The Ryan Tradition – founded by Anne Ryan, with the legacy continued by John Ryan – has defined excellence in luxury real estate. Built on trust and a reputation for unmatched service and expertise, this distinguished team has achieved over $2.4 billion in sales since 1998, setting the benchmark for premier property transactions. Whether you are buying or selling, they look forward to working with you.
Mark Gellman and Neil Gellman photo by Madeline Cameron; The Ryan Tradition photo by Christina Kling-Garrett
PabloPicasso,Teted'HommeBarbu,1966,coloredcrayonand pencilonpaper,signedanddated,21 x 141/2inches
ThorvaldHellesen,Composition,circa1920s,oiloncanvas,signed on a plaqueonthereverse,gilt-framed.58 x 58inches
AndyWarhol,QueenNtombiTwalaof Swaziland,from:ReigningQueens,1985, screenprint,ed.27/40,391/4 x 311/2in.
AndyWarhol,Turtle,1985(II.360A), screenprintonLenoxMuseumBoard, ed.125/150,signedandnumbered, 311/2 x 391/8inches
featuring anextraordinarycollectionoffinearttoincludeworksbypicasso,matisse,warhol,haring,brancusi,berninghaus,emilbisttram,thorvald hellesen,fredgreenecarpenter,clementmeadmore,bobcassilly,larryzox,joeandoe,robertdeyber,alisonsaar,bryanhaynes , genekloss,johnkoch,h. claudepissarro,ernesttrova,ernestinebettsberg,janoskmetty,albrechtdurer,e.oscarthalinger,frankarmington,birger s andzen,josephvorst,ashley longshoreandmore;anedwardh.bohlinsterlingandtooledleathercompleteparadeensemblesaddle;jewelry,asiandecorativeart;artdecobronzes; mcmfurnituretoincludenoguchi,bertoia,rietveld,knoll,milobaughman,fineporcelainandan1880salbanycuttersleigh.
nkAuct ion Gall er ies
www. linkauction ga ll eries .com catalogueavailableandonline bidonlinewith Invaluable and LiveAuctioneers
5 00 0 washingtonplace sai nt louis¦missouri 63108 contactusat
Great Holiday Gifts
Adam Foster Fine Jewelry 601S.LindberghBlvd., 3rd Floor, 314-771-3390,fosterjewelry.com
Do you know the holidays are a prime time for couples to get engaged?
Whether you are looking for a stone, a setting, or the complete ring, Adam Foster Fine Jewelry can help! Visit the showroom to view their bridal jewelry collection or discuss a custom design. No appointment necessary.
The Annex Coffee and Foods 8122BigBendBlvd.,314-731-6329, theannexstl.com
Indulge in the delectable flavors of top selling The Annex Box. This substantial collection of jams, sauces, and dressings is crafted exclusively for The Annex, using the finest and freshest natural ingredients. Elevate your pantry with this versatile and satisfying assortment.
Civil Alchemy
8154BigBendBlvd.,314-801-7577, civilalchemy.com
Fragrant goods from Civil Alchemy Founder, Kelley Hall-Barr. Items include hand-blended perfumes, candles, reed diffusers, room sprays, as well as serums/tonics for skin and hair. Linen-covered flax therapy wraps for eyes and body filled with organic herbs.
By Maggie Peters
Chesterfield Valley Nursery 16825N.Outer40Road,636-532-9307, chesterfieldvalleynursery.com
Transform someone’s space with Chesterfield Valley Nursery’s vibrant Garden Center offerings—thoughtful houseplants, beautiful pottery, and unique plant-inspired gifts perfect for nurturing the green thumb in your life. For those who adore holiday magic, you’ll find stunning pre-made evergreen arrangements, centerpieces, and wreaths that bring warmth and joy to any home.
The Diamond Bar 13360ClaytonRoad,314-548-5100, thediamondbarstl.com
The Diamond Bar is thrilled to be named one of the Coolest Jewelry Store in America for 2024! Join in the celebration at their Black Friday Sale on November 29th, with 29-percent off in-stock finished jewelry. Don’t miss the stunning collection of diamond hoops – sparkling, timeless, and the perfect addition to any collection. Can’t wait to see you there!
Field Theory
8153BigBendBlvd.,314-942-2025, fieldtheory.us
This reversible jacket from the MOUNTAIN LINE features down on one side and boa fleece on the other. The W-layered construction of down and boa provides excellent protection against the cold wind, while the reversible design offers versatility for various occasions. From outdoor adventures to urban explorations, this vest is your perfect companion.
LINK Auction Galleries 314-724-8149,linkauctiongalleries.com
Get your holiday shopping at LINK Auction Galleries at their December 6 and 7 auctions. Offering fine works of art by Picasso, Warhol, Haring, Brancusi and more, as well as designer furniture by MCM, Noguchi, Knoll and Eames, and fine Jewelry including diamonds, gemstones and gold. View the catalogue online today!
The Novel Neighbor 7905BigBendBlvd.,314-738-9384, thenovelneighbor.com
The Novel Neighbor sells new books of all genres, locally made art, and carefully curated gifts for avid readers of all ages. The Novel Neighbor is charming, unique and welcoming to all; they facilitate in-store book clubs, host book-themed birthday parties, summer camps, cocktail classes and offer space for event rental.
Union Studio 8157BigBendBlvd.,314-279-1446, stlunionstudio.com
Rebecca Melander’s hand-painted wood ornaments are the quintessential handmade gift. Each piece is individually painted with care right here in St. Louis. Gift these stunning ornaments to the tree enthusiast or local business lover on your list.
The Annex: Withalargeassortmentofspecialtyfoodsandgiftboxesgalore.Theshopofferslocally roastedcoffee,creativecocktails,breads,pastries,breakfast,andlunchsandwichesmadewithhouse-smoked meatstheirfreshbread.Opensevendaysaweek.
CivilAlchemy, foundedin2017by Kelley Hall-Barr, offers everythingfromfunctionalhousewaresand apparelbrandsfromEuropeandtheU.S. We offerhand-selectedwines,hard-to-findspirits,anddistinctive personalaccessoriesincludingleathershoesandbags,wool/cashmerescarves,andhandcraftedjewelry On-locationproducedbathandbodygoodsaswellassmall-batchperfumes. We house a largecollection of candlesdevelopedin-house.Exploreourselectionandfindinspiredgiftsfor everyoneonyourlist. We prideourselvesonthoughtful,intentionalgifsforall.Open everydayat10:00AM.
Offeringmorethanjustlocallyroastedcoffeeandhandcraftedcocktails-Enjoyhouse-madepastries,and lunchsandwichesmadewithoursignaturehouse-smokedmeats,orrelaxonourcozyheatedpatio Exploreourcollectionofspecialtyfoods,pantryessentials,anduniquegifts.Lookingfortheperfect holidaypresent? Take advantageofourcustom-curatedgiftingservicestocreate a thoughtfulcollectionof localandspecialtygoodsforanyoneonyourlist. WWW THEANNEXSTL COM
Notch + Mill, a holistic spa in St. Charles, offers a premium scalp massage to relax guests and rejuvenate their hair follicles.
This viral beauty treatment – hailed as a facial for the scalp – originated in Japan and is now taking over the States. At N+M, guests can experience this hot commodity for themselves by booking the Signature Scalp Treatment + NIR Treatment, which provides a 1.5-hour session that addresses scalp and hair health with a therapeutic deep cleanse.
LN spoke with Kim Stahlheber, owner of N+M, about the arrival of head spas in the St. Louis area and who can benefit from this signature service.
How did you discover head spa services, and why did you think this type oftreatment would be a good fit for the St. Louis area?
Likesomanyothers,Idiscovered this new serviceviasocialmedia. Right away, Iknewit was aservice thatIwantedtoprovide.Asasalon owner for 15years,I have repeatedly listenedtoourguestsask for recommendationsonwhattodo for scalppsoriasis,itchinganddandruff. Iimmediatelyknewit was theperfect fit for ourexistingclienteleand new guests.
Tell us about the three guiding values of your salon and spa: quality, education and care.
N+Misawarm,modernco-workingsalonwhereourguestsbecome friendsandfamily. We strivetoprovideexcellentserviceand exceed industrystandardswithmanycustomtouches. From hottowels[anda] locally-grownherbalcustomteablend[that we offerto]hand-crafted scalpandskinscrubstosampleinthebathrooms,nodetailisoverlooked.
Notch + Mill, 1035 S. Duchesne Drive, St. Charles, 636-946-8701, notchmill.com
What to expect from Notch + Mill’s Signature Scalp Treatment + NIR Treatment
The treatment begins and ends with a consultation using trichoscopy imaging (a noninvasive way to magnify and examine your scalp) to address individual concerns. “This allows us to tailor the service to provide exactly what your scalp needs,” says N+M owner and specialized stylist Kim Stahlheber. Then, guests experience a scalp massage with specialty oils, dry brushing and a hair mask. A deep cleanse and exfoliation is followed by the application of a restorative conditioner, says Stahlheber, as well as hydrotherapy and a low-level light therapy with steam, all of which works together to increase circulation in the scalp and regenerate hair follicles.
By Brittany Nay > Photos by Christina Kling-Garrett
TheresaMucelli always dreamedofrunninghervery own shop. In2020,herdreambecamerealitywhensheopenedArdently, a sustainablewomenswearstorecombiningMucelli’spassion for fashionwithher love oftheEarth.
“Ithas always been my dreamtocreate a spaceof my own,”Mucelli says. “I havealways beenpassionateabouttheenvironmentanddoingourpartto maintainit – every littlething we domakes a difference.”
AftergrowingupinSt.Louis’metroeastandgraduating from the UniversityofKansaswith a degreeintextiledesign,Mucelli says she serendipitouslystumbleduponthemerchandisingworldandrealizedshe could – ardently – championher two passions.
LocatedalongSt.Louis’CherokeeAntique Row, Ardentlyprioritizes quality over quantity,stockingselect new women’sclothingandaccessories from eco-consciouslabels. “We provideeffortlessfashion for earthlovers,” theshopowner says, noting85%ofthemerchandiseismadeusingnatural or recycled fibers.
Whenitcametopickingherdreamshop’slocation,Mucellichose CherokeeStreet for itshistoryandwalkability,aswellasthefriendly surroundingneighborsofBentonPark.“CherokeeAntique Row has a very oldcharacterandcharmtoit,”she says. “Thearchitectureislovely,and thestreetiseasytostroll.Thediversityisincredible,andtheneighbors are fantastic.It’s a verywarmandwelcomingenvironment.”
stylesthatcanbelayered,mixedandmatched,androtateddepending ontheseason.“Building a sustainablecapsulewardrobeisaboutmaking sureyourfoundationpieces are qualitybasics[thatare]easytowearand can go withanything,[so] you canthrow[them]onand go aboutyour day,” she says.
Mucelli says theshopreflectsher own personalstyle;shecuratesthe store’scollectionofhigh-quality,neutral-huedclosetstaples,withoccasional popsofcolor – includingred,thetrendingcolorofthemoment.“I buy in smallquantitiestomakesure I keepupwith a uniqueselection,”shenotes.
“Ourfittedknittops are madewithbamboo,sothey’resoft,stretchyand comfy,andalso have a sustainablestorytothem,”Mucelli says.
Amongthestore’senvironmentallyconsciousbrands, NLT (No LessThan) isethicallymade from starttofinishin Los Angeles,reducingthecompany’s carbonfootprint.
As for thisseason’sstylestoshop,Mucellinotesthatoversizedisontrend:“I love anoversizedlook – it’scomfortableandeasytowearandalso impactfulifit’sdonewell.”
For theholidays,she says tobeonthelookoutintheshopwindow,where pieces are rotatedweekly, for elevatednight-outlooks – “perfect for allthe [seasonal]parties.”
ShopArdently from noonto 5 p.m.WednesdaythroughSaturdayand noonto 4 p.m.Sunday.
Ardently, 2001 Cherokee St., St. Louis, 314-467-8570, ardentlystl.com
“Void Spaces”
By Madeleine Ackerburg > Photo courtesy of Kenneth Randle
UnderthesoftglowofTheHigh Low Gallery’slights,KennethRandle’s latestexhibition,“VoidSpaces,”invites visitorstostepintoworldswithin worlds.Eachcanvasoffersmorethan a visual experience – it’s a portalintothehidden,the historicalandthedeeplypersonal.Randle’s workchallengesperceptionsofBlackidentityin America,asking a fundamentalquestion:What doesitmeantobeinvisiblein a worldwhere Blacklabor,cultureandidentity are interwoven intoitsveryfabric?Theexhibition,whichruns throughJan.5,isboth a calltorememberand a chancetoreckon,bringingforthvoicesthat historyhastoooftensilenced.
For Randle,“VoidSpaces”is a deeply personalnarrativeborn from his own experiencesandthehistoryhecarrieswithin him.“‘VoidSpaces’is how I startedtolookat my life,” he says. “Throughthat, my arthas become a reflectionofsomeoftheideals,
situationsandresearchpertainingtothe AfricanAmericandiaspora.”Eachpainting servesas a homagetothepastand a critique of how Blackidentityisperceivedand portrayedtoday.
“I grew uponCook[Ave.]andWhitter [Street],andas a childinanunderrepresented community, I didn’t,atthetime,lookatthe obstaclesandhurdlesonehasto face,” Randle says. “Throughthesedisadvantages, I amlucky that I didn’tbecomepartof a cycle designed toseeyoung boys andmenfail.Myartwork derives from themindof a soulwho saw life for whatit was since a small boy.”
A themeofinvisibilityrunsthrougheach canvas,addressing how Blackpeopleandtheir contributionsandculture are oftenoverlooked. “Whatdoesitmeantobeinvisiblein a world wherethere’snosuchthingasinvisibility?” Randleasks.“First,thisideastemmed from historicalissueswiththecontributionsthat slavesmadeinbuilding America.Oddlyenough, receiptsshowthat we have beenleftoutof thoseconversations.” Randle’sworkchallenges thaterasure,bringing thesehiddenhistories intothelightwith every brushstroke.
All I’m doing with my paintings is paying respect to those who have come before me. – KENNETH RANDLE
Inhispaintings,Randle useslight,colorand
shapeasexpressivetools.“In a worldwhere peopleoftenseeonlyinblackandwhite,I’ve always usedlight,colorandshapeas a form ofrepresentationtoexpress my ideas,”he says. Thisfocusonlightisbothaestheticand metaphorical,illuminatingthenuanceand dignityinBlackidentity.“Myidealsserveas a window,allowing my paintingstospeakabout theAfrican-Americanhistoricalnarrativeand theBlackaesthetic.”
Randle’sapproachistohonortheancestors andthosewhoshapedhistory,oftenwithout recognition.“AllI’mdoingwith my paintingsis payingrespecttothosewho have comebefore me,” he says. “[Igiveidentity]tothesoulsof thepast,whomhistoryhaseitherleftoutor haslimitedtheamountofinformation wehave onBlackpioneersthat have madegreattributes totheWesternworld.”
Theexhibitionalsocapturesthetension betweenpastandpresent,betweenidentity anderasure.“‘VoidSpaces’goesboth ways,” Randle says. “Ononehand,theapproachis a key foundationin how I go aboutexplaining my idealspictorially,andthesecondismebeing a partoftodayandtheever-changingvoids thatBlackpeople have beenstrugglingtofind themselvesin – butmostimportantly,figuring out howwe got thereinthefirstplace.”
The High Low Gallery, 3301 Washington Ave., St. Louis, 314-533-0367, kranzbergartsfoundation.org/high-low
Grand Mediterranean
GrandCenterhasa new destination for casualTurkishcuisine. GrandMediterraneanhelditsofficialopeningonOct.17following asoftlaunchinSeptember.Thequick-serviceconceptfeatures traditionalMediterraneanspecialtiesincludingpitasandwiches, wraps,ricebowls,salads,appetizersandpides(Turkishpizzas).
EmrahŞelliandErsenÖzcan – whobecamegoodfriendsasmembersof theTurkishAmericanSocietyofMissouri – partneredtobringtheirdream foodconcepttothearea. “We recentlyfoundoutthat we bothsharethe samedreamofopening a restaurant,so we thought,‘Whynottogether?’” says Şelli,whoworksas a cancerresearcherby day. Özcanownsseveral locationsofphonerepairshopsthroughouttheSt.Louisarea.
Theco-ownershail from easternTurkey,wherethey grew upeating theirshop’ssignaturedish:doner,orTurkish gyro. “We all grew upeating doneralmost every week.EverycityofTurkey knows it. You canfind donershopson every corner,”Şelli says. “Thereisn’tasingledonershop inSt.Louis,so we are reallyexcitedtoofferTurkishcuisinetoSt.Louis.I liketocallitahealthyalternativetoAmericanfastfood.”
Inthekitchen,chefandmanagerInciSen,whohaspriorexperience inkabobshops,createdavibrantsetofspecialtiestocarryouttheduo’s vision.Shedevelopedtherecipes for asetofsignaturesaucesincluding
whitegarlic, red spicyandtahinioptions,inadditiontoahousemade hummus,toaccompanythesavorydishes.
To drink,GrandMediterraneanofferssoftdrinksaswellasTurkish coffeeandayran–aTurkishyogurt beverage. Sweetoptionsinclude Turkishbaklavaandkataifi.Goingforward,theeaterywillalsorollouta coffeebarmenucalledGMCoffee,whichwillfeatureKaldi’sCoffeeand expandeddessertofferings.
“Inthefuture, we plantoexpandand have otherlocations. We have returningcustomersvisitingusacoupletimesaweekandgivingusgood feedback,whichisveryencouraging,”Şelli says. “Ihopemorepeoplewill giveusachanceandcometrythishealthy,freshMediterraneancuisine we serve.”
Grand Mediterranean is open daily from 11a.m. to 8p.m.
Grand Mediterranean, 519 N. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, 314-710-0949, grandmediterranean.com
They say history is a mystery, but in St. Louis, much of it remains alive.
The city has preserved many turnof-the-century bank buildings, law firms and hotels, even as they’ve transformed to serve new purposes. LN visited two parts of the city, Downtown and the Central West End, to uncover the stories behind three hotels in historic metro spaces.
HOTEL SAINT LOUIS | DOWNTOWN
Originally known as the Union Trust Company Building, the sprawling, U-shaped structure now home to Hotel Saint Louis was built in 1893. It was designed by renowned architect Louis Sullivan, considered by many to be the “Father of the Skyscraper,” shortly after his firm completed the nearby Wainwright Building in 1891.
“Structurally, it is considered to be more pure than its better-known contemporary,” states the building’s webpage with St. Louis’ Cultural Resources Office. “Modifications of the first two floors in 1924 eliminated some of the building’s important architectural elements such as its arched entryways and circular windows. Above that level, the building returns to its original characteristics, with uninterrupted brick shafts from the third to the 12th floors.”
Although the structure once featured Sullivan’s ornate detailing on its first two stories – a grand arched main entrance and sculptural lions holding shields, to be exact – these were removed with the 1924 renovation. Still, just above the 12th floor’s arched windows, a two-story cap remains adorned with terra cotta lion heads peeking from its spandrels.
The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and became a City Landmark in 1971.
Hotel St. Louis, 705 Olive St., St. Louis, 314-241-4300, hotelsaintlouis.com
Merchants-Laclede Building, now the Hilton Pennywell
HILTON PENNYWELL AT THE ARCH | DOWNTOWN
Just a few blocks down from Hotel Saint Louis on Olive Street, another St. Louis city landmark, the Hilton Pennywell, exists in what used to be the Merchants-Laclede Building. It’s also on the National Register of Historic Places.
Finished in 1888 and designed by New York architect Stephen D. Hatch alongside his associate L. Cass Miller, the two-toned structure was created using sand-colored granite on the first two floors and warm red sandstone and brick above. On the corner of Olive and North Fourth streets, one entrance is crowned by a rounded tower that stretches skyward.
“Today, the Merchants-Laclede Building seems small by comparison with nearly everything around it, but in its day, it was groundbreakingly large, a pioneering modern office building that was the predecessor to several dozen high-rise buildings that sprouted in downtown St. Louis in the following decades,” writes Robert Powers for the blog Built St. Louis. “It set the template for greater height, fireproof construction, larger floor plates, generous windows and natural light, and finely appointed interiors.”
Indeed, the Merchants-Laclede Building stands out against the rest – a stately reminder of what came before all the steel and glass that surrounds it today. From bank to legal firm to unoccupied property in the 1990s, it has lived many lives, eventually being renovated as the Hilton Pennywell around 2005.
In the lobby, guests can walk across some of the building’s original white marble floors and admire the matching twin bank vault doors preserved inside.
Hilton Pennywell St. Louis at the Arch, 400 Olive St., St. Louis, 314-436-0002, thepennywellhotel.com
Unlike the previous two, Chase Park Plaza Hotel has always operated as a hotel in one way or another – but now it’s a hotel, apartment complex, event space and cinema complete with restaurants and bars. The Chase Hotel came first and was built in 1922 by developer and attorney Chase Ullman. Finished in just nine months, the building housed 500 guest rooms, entertainment spaces, a rooftop garden that opened in summer and a dance hall called the Palm Room.
“The Palm Room got off to an inauspicious start,” writes Harley Hammerman in his historic restaurants and bars blog, Lost Tables. “On New Year’s Eve 1922, partiers jammed the spacious venue for dinner, dancing and midnight noisemaking. However, as it was the second New Year’s Eve under Prohibition, no alcohol was served. At each table, a card warned: ‘Patrons are earnestly requested not to violate the law.’ But by 1922, revelers knew how to slip a flask into a public place.”
In 1929, the Art Deco-style Park Plaza tower was constructed next door. Its owner Sam Koplar eventually lost it to foreclosure during the Great Depression, but in 1944, he regained ownership. Then, in 1961, the two buildings – the Chase Hotel and the Park Plaza – combined to become the Chase Park Plaza Hotel. Now part of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Historic Hotels of America program, it was purchased by Sonesta in 2017.
Chase Park Plaza Hotel, 212 Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, 314-633-3000, sonesta.com
CHASE PARK PLAZA HOTEL | CENTRAL WEST END
Hotel Saint Louis
Chase Park Plaza Hotel
HOME HOME
By Daniel Puma > Photos courtesy of Reedy Press
Sweet
Earlier this year, Reedy Press published “Missouri Comfort: Recipes, Places, and Food Traditions in the Show-Me State.”
Helmed by chef Matthew Unger and writer Porsche Moran Murphy, “Missouri Comfort” takes readers on a tour of comfort food from Kansas City to St. Louis and everywhere in between, offering insight into the traditions, history and cultures that influenced our favorite hometown eats.
LN sat down with Unger and Murphy to discuss their new book.
What was the genesis of “Missouri Comfort”?
Matthew Unger: The owner of Reedy Press [Josh Stevens] is a buddy of mine. [After Stevens floated the idea and I agreed, we] got Porsche on board. Our original idea was to incorporate recipes from restaurants from across the state. That didn’t work out. We morphed it into doing a little bit of history on the different areas of Missouri, comfort foods, where people settled, ethnicities and so forth.
Porsche Moran Murphy: I have done a lot of lifestyle, food and travel reporting stories in Missouri throughout my career. [Stevens, Unger and I] worked together on the idea of how we would lay out the content and settled on the idea of breaking it down by ethnicities that contributed to Missouri as well as homegrown ingredients. We figured out what categories we wanted to do, and then Matthew had recipes that corresponded to those categories. I added context and history alongside the recipes.
What were some discoveries you made while researching the ethnicities that shaped Missouri comfort food?
Moran Murphy: Something that stood out to me was how many different ethnicities shaped Missouri’s food, and even in the current landscape, how many more different cultural backgrounds are coming into Missouri’s food landscape. We had the German and the Irish, the French, and then, in the beginning of the book, I talk about indigenous peoples and enslaved Africans and their contributions. When people think of Missouri food, they wouldn’t necessarily think about all the global influences that we have here.
Unger: Obviously, we hear of Gooey Butter cake and toasted ravioli [from St. Louis and] burnt ends from Kansas City, but [there are lesser-known signature dishes] like chicken spiedini. There is a restaurant that’s still open
in Kansas City that was the first to put chicken spiedini on a menu in the United States. We see it on menus everywhere now, both in St. Louis and Kansas City and all across the state. [It was introduced to Kansas City by a chef who] called his cousin, who had a restaurant down on The Hill, asking for suggestions for his menu.
What’s one section of the book that you take particular pride in?
Unger: Two are near and dear to my heart: the German and Irish sections, because that’s my heritage. I developed a lot of the recipes from my grandmother’s cookbooks. It’s cool to see that in print for me to pass along to my kids; neither one of them cooks, but maybe someday. Recipes that are kind of surprising – that I didn’t really have in my back pocket before we started the book – are some of the recipes using native ingredients.
Moran Murphy: On a personal level, the French Creole Cajun chapter is significant to me because my grandfather is Creole. I grew up eating a lot of that type of food and traveling to Louisiana visiting family. It was nice to see there’s a Missouri connection to things I grew up eating. The other side of my grandparents are from Mississippi and Alabama, so I also grew up eating a lot of soul food. Being able to include things that were important in my family and tie that into my home now, Missouri, was neat. I also liked that I was able to give a shout-out to the Indigenous people and give them credit for how they built the foundation for all the ingredients that we have now and that we still use today.
This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.
Reedy Press, reedypress.com
Photo by Porcshe Moran Murphy
Photo by Porcshe Moran Murphy
Season’s Greetings
By Amanda Dahl > Images supplied
Send the warmest of wishes this season to family and friends with these holiday cards created by metro-area nonprofits and charitable organizations.
BIRTHRIGHT COUNSELING, ST. LOUIS
This card assists Birthright Counseling in providing free, professional pregnancy as well as postpartum support and confidential counseling.
Pricing: $10 for a set of 10 cards 314-962-5300, birthrightstl.org, app.etapestry.com/onlineforms/ birthrightcounselingstlouis_1/christmascard.html
EPWORTH CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES
This card supports Epworth Children & Family Services in empowering youth through resources and programs that meet essential needs, cultivate resiliency and help to build community.
Pricing: $15 for a set of 12 cards 314-961-5718, epworth.org
FOREST PARK FOREVER
This card aids Forest Park Forever in restoring, maintaining and sustaining one of America’s great urban public parks, the beloved Forest Park in St. Louis, for all to enjoy – now and forever.
Pricing: $37 for a set of 20 cards (shipping included) 314-367-7275, forestparkforever.org/holidaycards
MARYGROVE
This card benefits Marygrove, one of Missouri’s largest residential therapeutic treatment programs, which has provided children and young adults with a safe home and quality mental health services for 175 years and counting.
Pricing: $15 for a set of 10 cards 314-584-6129, marygrovechildren.org/get-involved/ donate-now/christmas-cards
Since1870,theHumaneSocietyofMissourihasbeen committedtopromotingthewelfareandwell-being ofanimals.HometotheAnimalCrueltyTaskforce,the organizationrespondstoreportsofsuspectedanimalabuse andneglect from acrossthestate.AsMissouri’slargest animalshelter,itoffersaffordableveterinaryservicesand runseducationalprogramstosupportitsmission.
– JonathanKatz EVENT CO-CHAIR
Dan and Toni Browne Maddie Wright, Grace Lause, Lindsay Trulaske
Rachel Saunders, Penny Schneithorst
Story and photos by Bryan Schraier
PAWS for Celebration Committee Members
Andrew and Abby Silverstone
Jonathan and Simon Katz
Caroline Wideman, Kathy Warnick, Elizabeth Cain
30th Anniversary Gala
In mid-October,thevenerableUnionAvenueOpera markedits30thanniversarywith a galaheldatthe BarnettonWashington event spaceinSt.Louis’Grand Centerneighborhood.Guests were welcomedtoan intimateeveningfeaturinghorsd’oeuvresanddrinks,with opportunitiesto browse silentauctionitems,purchaseraffle ticketsandjointhewinepullasanticipationbuilt for the dinnerandevening’sentertainment.Followingthecocktail hour,gueststooktheirseatsas UAO AdministrativeDirector Emily Stolarski deliveredopeningremarks,settingthestage for theupcoming31stseason.Thenight’sfestivitiesconcluded with a captivatingoperashowcase.Amongthedistinguished guests were GrammyAward-winnerandhonorarychair Christine Brewer, event co-chairs Doug Rademaker and Jeff Bewley and UAO BoardPresident Marlyn Shepard.
we celebrate the hard work and incredible support of so many who made the past 30 seasons possible. We now build on those accomplishments as we plan for an even more fulfilling next chapter of Union Avenue Opera.
Story and photos by James Anderson
–Scott Schoonover
Tim and Steve LaBarge, John Armstrong, Jack LaBarge Jeremy Oates, Marilyn Sheperd, Doug Rademaker
Emily Stolarski
Ross and Christine Brewer Sara Burke, Lisette Dennis, Marilyn Sheperd
Gretchen Barry, Susanne Valdez, Esley Hamilton, Tegner Stokes, Jeff Bewley
David, Lynn and Anthony Heinemann, Scott Schoonover, Debbie Lennon
Oneofthis year’shighlightsisThe Lodge at Winterfest, a new additionbringing acozy, skilodge-inspired retreattotheheartofdowntown. Tucked away at 701MarketSt.,thispop-upoffers visitors achance to warmupwith a curatedmenu ofseasonal cocktailsandsmallbites fromUKRAFT Brunch Café. It’sanoasisof comfortamidthe excitementofWinterfest,where visitorscantakea breather, enjoygamesandsnapholiday portraits. AdmissiontoThe Lodge includes a complimentarydrink,withproceedssupporting theGateway ArchPark Foundation’smissionto enhance andmaintaintheGateway Arch grounds forallSt. Louis residentsandvisitors.
Winterwonderland
AttheheartofWinterfestisthepopulariceskatingrink,where skatersglideunderthousands oftwinklinglights framedbytheiconicview oftheGateway Arch.Skating rentalsare $15 for adultsand$10 for childrenages 3 to15,with free rentals available forkidson Fridays thanksto a partnershipwiththeSt. LouisBlues. For a more private experience, Winterfest’s
IglooVillage offers cozy, heatediglooswithseating, signature beveragesandskate rentals forupto fourpeople. “We’ve seenigloosbecome a bighit for everything from familyoutingstoengagement celebrations,” says CamilleBrooks,directorof programmingand eventsatGateway ArchPark Foundation.“Eachreservationcreatesanintimate, festive atmosphereforgroupslookingtomake memories.”
Winterfest’sCampfire Kits,another returning favorite, allow visitorsto gatheraroundfire pits for classics’mores roasting. Vegankitsareavailable, so everyonecanenjoy thisfiresidetreat.
Newtraditions
This year’s celebrationkicksoffwiththe AmerenMissouri FestivalofLightson Nov. 23and includestheWinterfest5Kand Fun Walk/Run, freeskating,and a holiday treelighting ceremony at 5p.m., followedbytheSalvationArmyTreeof Lightsat5:40 p.m.
Winterfestbrings funand excitementtodowntown St. Louis,butitalsoserves a greaterpurpose The eventispresentedbyBankofAmericaand World Wide Technology, withproceedsbenefitingthe Gateway ArchPark Foundation.“Winterfestplaysa vital roleinsupportingourmissionto keepthisspace vibrantandaccessible for everyone,” Brooks explains.
“Oursponsorsand communitypartnershipsmake it possibletohost free,family-friendly eventsthatenrich St. Louis.”
The Foundation’smembershipprogramalsoplays anintegral roleinsupportingWinterfestandsimilar events.“Ourmembersmake itpossibletobringthese holidayexperiencestolife,” Brookssays.“When youbecome a member,you’re notonlysupporting Winterfestbutalsohelpingustopreserve St. Louis’ mosticonicspaces for futuregenerations.”
Theholidays canbetough. Notall families relishtimetogether, and we tendto bethrowninto arequiredsenseofholiday cheerwith relatives we may notsee eye-toeye withunderthebestofcircumstances. And this year –well,let’sjustsay that tensionsmay beheightenedinthe wake of the recentelection.
“When I talkto familiesandindividuals abouthow todealwithpoliticaldifferences, itoften comesdowntothequestionofwhat kindof relationshiptheywanttohave,”
says Dr.NancyFriesen,Ph.D., a licensed phsychologistandassistantprofessorof psychiatryandneurobehavioralsciencesat Saint Louis UniversitySchoolofMedicine “Can youbeOKwithdisagreeing,orare the differencessointensethat arelationship becomesuntenable?”
If c ompleteseparation from afamily memberwhoseviews upset youisnot possibleorpreferable, thenprepare yourself forinteractionsbyleaninginto c opingskillsthatcanhelp younavigateall kindsofsocialand familial relationships, says MollyDwyer-Simonsen,M.A., a licensed professional c ounselorandtheMercy regionaldirectorofoutpatientbehavioral health.Itbeginsby recognizingone’s triggers – theactivating eventsor c omments thatstirupnegative emotions.DwyerSimonsenagreeswith Friesenthat we need to c onsiderwhere are ourboundaries. “Mostofushave had recurrentholidays with afamilymemberwhosepoliticalbeliefs areverystrongononeside, andmaybeours are ontheotherside, so we cananticipate those events,places,thoughtsand feelings thatare potentially goingtopushour buttonsattheholidays,” Dwyer-Simonsen says.“[Ask yourself], ‘Am I in a place where I’mwillingtodealwiththat?’ We can’t rely on arelative to changea belief systemafter decades,sowhatareyouwillingtodoin termsof your reaction?”
Planning your own responsesprovides a senseof control,she continues.“If I sitback andhopethatsomeoneelsewill change, I’ve relinquished mycontrolinthesituation. Andthat’swhen wegetanxiousand distressedand reactive,” Dwyer-Simonsen says.“If I canapproach someonewith radicalacceptance thatthey are whothey are, then I canmove onwithaninternal calmnessof myown.”
Onepotential responsecanbeignoring inflammatory remarks.In a sense, this islike training achildnotto continue a tantrum,shesays.When a stimulusisnot metwith aresponse, thestimulus generally fades. Again,thisis a matterof controlling thesituationby choosingnotto reactas theinstigator expects.Andinmany cases, withno response, theindividualwhois baiting youwill eventuallybecometiredof itandmove on. Friesenagreesandnotes
thatapproachingthesituationas a curious observercanbe a successfultactic.
Anotheroptionisto respondin a new way.Relationshipsoftendeveloppatterns, andoneparticipantmightsay ordo somethingtoelicitan expected response
Sometimes we canachievea betteroutcome by reconsideringour response “Thattakes somethoughtandpreparationonourpart,” Dwyer-Simonsensays. “Anticipatethat familymemberpushingthatbutton,and change thatoldpatternsomehow. Insteadof joiningintheolddance,change thestepsto improve the way theinteractionunfolds.”
Occasionally Friesenencourages aclient tobringthe familyto a joint counseling session.“Ifthere’s arealrift,andboth people wantto continuethe relationship andjustneedhelpnavigatingthat,then familytherapy canbe veryhelpful,” she says.“We canhelpsetgroundrulesso you can continue arelationshipwith afamily member evenif youhave differences.And we canhelpin recognizingwhensomething just won’t work.”
Either way,a neutral voicefrom a mental healthprofessionaltrainedinbehavioral therapy techniquescanbebeneficial.And if youare strugglingwith your owngrief, angeranddisappointmentwith familyor justin general, acounselorcanhelpin workingwiththoseemotionsandcreating copingskillstoimproveyoursenseofpeace and controlattheholidays andthroughout the yearsto come
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