December 16, 2022

LADUENEWS

LADUE

PUBLISHER Ian Caso

EDITORIAL

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Emily Adams | eadams@laduenews.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Andrea Smith | asmith@laduenews.com

DIGITAL EDITOR & STAFF WRITER Amanda Dahl | adahl@laduenews.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR Emily Standlee | estandlee@laduenews.comm

CONTRIBUTING COPY EDITOR & WRITER Alecia Humphreys

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mark Bretz, Drew Gieseke, Connie Mitchell, Brittany Nay, Sheila Oliveri, Pat Raven, Nancy Robinson, Mabel Suen

SALES

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Kevin Hart | khart@stlpostmedia.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Katie Ray | kray@laduenews.com Erin Wood | ewood@laduenews.com

SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER Maggie Peters | mpeters@laduenews.com

CLASSIFIED ACCOUNT MANAGER Lisa Taylor | ltaylor@lee.net ART

ART DIRECTOR

Dawn Deane | ddeane@laduenews.com

ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR

Laura De Vlieger | ldevlieger@laduenews.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

James Anderson, Bryan Schraier

OFFICE MANAGER

Megan Langford | mlangford@laduenews.com

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

After three years at Ladue News, it’s bittersweet to to share that this is my last issue to edit, as I am moving on to pursue opportunities elsewhere. Getting to know the metro area community – its leaders, entrepreneurs and creatives – has been the greatest joy of my time working for this publication.

Seeing small businesses thrive through making high-quality and sustainable products, like the ones mentioned in this issue, makes me proud to purchase locally made goods. To read about digital editor and staff writer Amanda Dahl’s top picks for self-care products, flip to Page 34, where she dishes on local favorites.

This issue also spotlights young creatives from the metro area who are sharing their talents with the world and discovering they, too, have entrepreneurial potential. On Page 18, contributing reporter Drew Gieseke details how Olivia Davis created an online resource for anyone learning to sew and how she also started her own apparel line. And on Pages 60 and 61, Gieseke documents Olivia Polk’s journey to becoming a children’s author and how her restructured fairy tale is empowering young girls.

This community supports both professional and personal growth, and examples of this abound across LN’s pages and website. Thank you, LN staff, contributors and readers. It’s been an honor to be your managing editor, and I know the next editor to fill this role will share my appreciation and love for this community.

Smith, Managing Editor

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LN Online

The St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust museum recently debuted its new $25 million facility, which is now four times its previous size and combines updated technology with powerful exhibitions. Visit laduenews.com to read more about the institution’s reopening after a two-year renovation process.

Keep up with our latest stories and updates by following @LadueNews on Twitter.

Andrea

ByMaggiePeters |PhotoscourtesyofTheGatesworth

KATHY

TheGatesworth,anindependent senior living community,strivestogiveresidentsarenewedsense ofjoy,providingarobustcalendarofholidayevents thatbringstheentirecommunitytogether.

“Thecompanyofotherpeopleandtheirgood spiritsspreadsthroughtheresidents,”programdirectorKathy Davissays.“EveryoneisheretogetherandIreallythinkthat’s oneofthethingsthathelpsitfeelsogreat.”Davisaddsthateven residentsthathavefamilythatlivefarawayneverfeelalonefor theholidaysbecausethereissomuchactivity.

TheGatesworthisofferinganabundanceofholidayevents andactivitiesoncemore.Thecelebrationbeganearlierthis monthwithavisitfromSantaduringaspecialbreakfast,where hestopped at each resident’stablegreetingthem personally withgiftsandspreadinggoodcheer.

Othereventsthisseasonincludeholidaysingalongson Sundayscompletewithseasonalrefreshments;an“outonthe town”dinnerandvisittoO’Fallon’sCelebrationofLights;and TheGatesworthSingersHolidayConcertwithmusicdirector AndyWaggener.Inaddition,TheGatesworthwillofferevening servicesforthe eightnightsofHanukkahandadinnerspecialon thesecondnight.AperformancebytheDancingSantas,which Daviscalls“thefastest10 minutesoffunyou’llhavein yourlife,”willcertainlyput oneintheholidayspirit.

“TheGatesworthhas somuchactivityforusto pickandchoose;thosewith nochildrencanbeasbusy astheywanttobe.People whodohavefamilyaround cancomeandgoasthey pleaseandhavefamilyover,” saysresident ClaireTaylor, adding,“Ifinditperfect–Idon’thavetodecorate!”

TaylormovedtoTheGatesworthin2020,justasthe pandemicbegan.Shedescribeshowastoundedshewasby thecommunitymovingcrew,whohandledeveryaspectofher move.Inthetwoyearssince,shecontinuestobeamazedby theincredibleserviceprovided.

“Ifyourunoutoflightbulbs,youcallmaintenanceandthey bringthemtoyou,”shesays.“Ifyourfridgeismakinganoise,you callmaintenance.Youdon’t havetodoanythingotherthan call.Thestaffallknowyour name.It’salmostlikeadream.”

Ontopoftheexcellentstaff, Taylor’s absolutefavoritepart oflivingatTheGatesworthis thefeelingofcomraderyshe getsfromthecommunityand theactivitiesoffered.

“Ourresidentshavethe benefitofworld-classcuisine, breathtakingoutdoor spaces, exceptionalservicesandthe opportunity to makenew friendshipsallyear,butitis even more apparent duringthe holidays,”saysStacyMuehlher, directorofleasing.“Fromalectureseriestoyogaclasses,we encourageourresidentstoexploretheirpassionsandenjoy everythingTheGatesworthhas to offer.”

“There’salwayssomethingpoppingupthatpeopleareexcited todiscover,”Davisadds.“Peoplecanmaketheirplans.Theyhave moreeventsintheirlives–thingsthatarespecial.Myrewardis reallyseeinghowappreciativetheresidentsare.”

TheGatesworthisgivingresidentsallthecomfortandjoyof theholidays,withextraordinaryserviceandevents.

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

Thecompanyofotherpeople andtheirgoodspiritsspreads throughtheresidents.”

–

DAVIS

ResidentProgramDirectorKathyDavis

ResidentClaireTaylor

Nominationsare

You’ve Got This, Mama!

By Alecia Humphreys

As most new moms can relate:

Motherhood is a beautiful blend of excitement and exhaustion – both physically and mentally. Thankfully, the St. Louis area has a slew of resources for the season you’re in, regardless of whether you need a simple postpartum pick-me-up, a little help lulling that little to sleep or something more significant. ln

Community builders

St. Louis Mom is a locally focused parenting website and newsletter with articles by more than 45 metro area-based mamas with a goal to connect fellow moms to relevant resources, family friendly activities and local businesses. Pop in online to explore an assortment of subjects – from youth sports to dining deals and birthday parties.

St. Louis Mom, stlouis.momcollective.com

Lactation consultants

Breastfeeding isn’t always the breezy experience you anticipated, which is precisely where lactation consultants come in. Whether you are experiencing poor milk supply, pain or other problems, experienced experts available through Mercy, Barnes Jewish Hospital and Missouri Baptist Medical Center are here to help.

Mercy Birthplace St. Louis, 314-251-6781, mercy.net/practice/mercy-birthplace-st-louis/ mercy-birthplace-patient-resources

Barnes Jewish Hospital Women

& Infants Center, 877-447-1496, barnesjewish.org/Medical-Services/Women-Infants

Missouri Baptist Medical Center, 314-996-5747, mobapbaby.org/Breastfeeding-Resources/ Our-Certified-Lactation-Consultants

Self-care savers

Birth Order is a St. Louis-based marketplace made by a mom for moms. Whether you need something to aid in healing or breastfeeding or a self-care treat, Birth Order offers curated products supporting expectant and new moms’ comfort and recovery.

Birth Order, birthorder.shop

Postpartum counseling

Giving birth comes with some intense emotion –everything from joy to anxiety to, sometimes, even depression. Marble Wellness has a team trained in maternal mental health, including perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, to help you over the hurdles that hinder you in this precious season of motherhood.

Marble Wellness, 301 Sovereign Court, Suite 115, St. Louis, 636-234-3052, marblewellness.com/counseling-forpostpartum-moms

Postpartum fitness

Materra Method founder Abby Erker doesn’t want women to just “bounce back after baby” –she wants to bring every mother home to their body through mindful movement. Pregnant and postpartum clients are encouraged to exercise by participating in on-demand or in-studio classes, or by scheduling a private training session.

Materra Method, 7638 Gannon Ave., University City, materramethod.com

Sleep-training solutions

Sleep can be a struggle in the initial stages of motherhood. Thankfully, infant and child sleep consultant

Renee Wasserman created SleepyHead Solutions to happily help. Whether you want to be prepared before baby’s arrival, need a sleep plan customized to your kid or something in between, SleepyHead Solutions wants to provide tools, strategies and confidence in your sleep situation.

SleepyHead Solutions, sleepyheadsolutions.com

Tracking tools

Mom brain having you questioning what time your last feeding took place? Try TinyTracker: a planner, memory book and infant development guide all wrapped into one pretty, linen-wrapped place.

The TinyTracker, thetinytracker.com

PHOTO OF TH e m AT err A me THOD b Y F e LIS e WAX m AN

ONLYSt.LouisChildren’sHospitalcouldofferLowenthemostcomprehensiveteamofneurocritical carespecialistsintheregion.Today,she’sahappy,healthy5-year-oldwhostillkeepsintouchwith herfriendsinthepediatricintensivecareunit.

JoinusinhelpingmorekidslikeLowenbydonatingtodayatStLouisChildrens.org/Give

©2022,St.LouisChildren’sHospital.Allrightsreserved.

MENTAL HEALTH AMID THE MERRIMENT

By Connie Mitchell

“T

he most wonderful time of the year” can also be the hardest time of the year for some. Expectations are high, and it can be difficult to create a façade of merriment when grief, anxiety or fatigue are ever-present. But there are some techniques that can help ease holiday difficulties.

“Many people experience increased sadness and/or anxiety at this busy time of year,” says Colleen Biri, a doctor of Psychology, licensed psychologist and senior professor of psychology at Lindenwood University. “You’re not alone.”

Causes of holiday distress stem from a variety of life stressors and mental health challenges. They include grief or longing for someone who died or is critically ill, extended contact with difficult family members,

pressure to overeat or drink too much alcohol, financial stress, too many activities in a short period of time and disrupted sleep schedules.

“All of these factors can contribute to the development of symptoms of depression or anxiety disorders,” Biri says.

Coping with these factors and other stressful situations requires conscious effort and some planning.

“Schedule personal downtime and maintain good boundaries about how much time or money you can afford to give,” Biri says. “Remember that it’s OK to say no to requests that will stretch you too thin. It’s also important to connect with the supportive people in your life, and try to stick to your normal sleep and exercise schedules. If you’re feeling especially hopeless or alone, reach out to the folks at the new 988 support line.”

Taking care of yourself is important, but you may also notice friends or family who need additional support. Providing that support can be as easy as taking time to listen to someone’s feelings or concerns. Biri notes that withdrawal is often an indication of depression, so it’s especially

important to reach out to loved ones who seem unusually quiet.

“Offer to help each other with tasks related to the holidays – they’re often more fun when done together,” she says. “And try to refrain from pressuring others to consume more or do more than they’re comfortable with.”

Sometimes, despite all our efforts, professional help is needed. And, remember: There’s no shame in seeking it.

“Don’t wait until your situation becomes a crisis to seek out professional support,” Biri says. “If you find yourself becoming more tearful, more irritable, sleeping too much or too little, eating too much or too little, feeling unable to do tasks that you’re normally capable of, thinking more than usual about death – these are all signs that things are reaching a tipping point. Consider speaking with your physician about troubling symptoms or reaching out to a therapist.” ln

To locate a therapist near you, go to psychologytoday.com/us. To schedule a session with Colleen Biri, go to cbiri.youcanbook.me.

Colleen Biri

Crafting Her Future

By Drew Gieseke Photo by Helloimtoriii Photography

ALadue High School alumna used her lifelong love of sewing to launch a nonprofit during the COVID-19 pandemic dedicated to teaching sewing skills to both children and adults.

The organization, known as The ORD Academy, operates as the parent company of CraftAcademy.org. This resource debuted in August and acts as a virtual classroom where participants can connect with instructors to learn the ins and outs of sewing and crafting – all at their own pace and in their own space.

“During the lockdowns, I noticed how many people wanted to learn these skills but could not because of accessibility,” founder Olivia Davis says. “Accessibility issues are not unique to COVID times. It could be a busy schedule, lack of driving, a disability, location or anything, and I wanted this website to be inclusive and allow everyone to develop these skills.”

CraftAcademy.org uses multiple camera angles,

slideshows and demonstrations to offer live instruction to students. Lessons are customized to each participant to ensure they’re learning how to create what they want to create, within their skillset. Davis says that she and her team of skilled instructors are still developing programs, but she’s especially excited to create an offering for youth to learn about entrepreneurship.

“My goal is to make it an after-school program that gives kids good life skills by way of learning sewing, crafting and entrepreneurial concepts,” Davis says.

Davis’ own entrepreneurial journey began in high school when she founded a fashion club for students. This marked the beginning of an already fruitful career for the 24-year-old, who says she’s always had an entrepreneurial spirit.

“I would create garments in high school and sell them to students and even a few teachers,” Davis notes. “Looking at people who use or wear something I created gives me a sense of purpose and drive. I think the most basic things that improve or change someone’s life, even in a small way, are important.”

Eventually, Davis launched her own fashion line out of the City Sewing Room in Lindenwood Park. She kicked this off alongside The ORD Academy, but when the pandemic hit in 2020, Davis shifted her approach online. She received a grant from the BALSA Foundation – which provides seed funding to first-time entrepreneurs in the St. Louis area –and used the money to kick off CraftAcademy.org.

“The BALSA Foundation really provided a space of growth and, of course, the financial help to start moving forward,” Davis says. “All of the entrepreneurs who spoke with us were inspiring, and it made me want to create something people can really use and benefit from.”

In the fall of 2022, CraftAcademy.org also received a grant from Google Ads to help reach more students.

“I am 100 percent focused on CraftAcademy.org right now,” she says. “It combines so many of my personal passions: sewing, teaching and nonprofit work. I am giving myself time to grow this venture so it can help people as much as possible.” ln

CraftAcademy.org

StifelSmartRateisaconvenientwayforyoutomanagethecashinyourportfolio.StifelSmartRate keepsyourcashbalancesatStifelaffiliatedbanksthroughyoursecuritiesaccount.

1 InterestratesfortheStifelSmartRateProgramarevariableandsubjecttochange.Interestis calculateddailyandiscreditedmonthly.Forcurrentrates,pleasecontactyourFinancialAdvisor. TheminimuminitialdepositforStifelSmartRateis$100,000. Itisimportanttonotethatwiththeexceptionofbankproducts,suchasStifelSmartRate,investment productsofferedthroughStifelarenotFDIC-insured,notbank-guaranteed,andmaylosevalue. NeitherStifelnoritsaffiliates,includingStifelBankandStifelBank&Trust,monitortheamount ofyourdepositedfundstodeterminewhetherthoseamountsexceedtheFDICinsurancelimits applicabletoyourdepositsatabank,andtheyarenotresponsi bleforanyinsuredoruninsured portionofthedepositaccountsatabank.

Senior Vice President/Investments Branch Manager (314)292-6201|carothes@stifel.com

2021S.LindberghBoulevard,Suite200 |Frontenac, Missouri63131 Stifel, Nicolaus&Company, Incorporated |Member SIPC & NYSE| www.stifel.com

ScottCarothers

WhattoExpec t Af ter

You’veBeenExpec ting

ST. LOUIS-BASEDHEALTHEXPERTSDISCUSSTHELESSER-KNOWN ASPECTSOFPOSTPARTUMRECOVERY, INCLUDINGBESTPRACTICES FORPHYSICAL,MENTALANDEMOTIONALCARE.

ByConnieMitchell |PhotoscourtsyofWashingtonUniversityinSt.Louis

Thetimefollowingababy’sbirthisspecialand unique.Therearejoysandchallenges,and whilenewparentsfocusontheirbaby,it’salso importantto maketimefor theparents’own bodyandmindself-care.

Physically,ittakestimetorecoverfrompregnancy andbirth,andnewmomsmightbesurprisedathow theirbodychanged.Whetherthebirthisvaginalor surgical,carryingababystressesthemusclesofthe pelvicfloor,whichsupporttheorganslocatedinthe lowerabdomen.Havingbeenstretchedandstrained, pelvicfloordysfunctioncanresultinincontinence, constipation andpelvicpain.Physical therapists specializinginpelvicfloor rehabilitation canhelp.

“Myinitial recommendation istissueprotection andhealing,”saysJenniferMiller,aphysicaltherapist withWashingtonUniversityinSt.Louisspecializing inwomen’shealth,pelvicfloordysfunctionandpain associatedwithpregnancy.“Iencouragemynewmoms andmoms-to-betohaveaplantoreducetheriskof constipation,asstrainingonthecommodeisahuge stressortothepelvicfloorandcausesconsiderable postpartumdiscomfort.Water,fiber,physicalactivity andstoolsoftenersasrecommendedbythehealth careteamare indispensableingredientsforreturning to regularity.”

Unlessprohibitedbyaphysician,newmomscan beginpelvicfloormusclecontractions,knownasKegel exercises,immediatelyaftergivingbirth.However,it’s agoodideatogetareferraltoapelvicfloorphysical therapistforassessmentandinstructionbecauseMiller notesthat mostwomen performKegelsincorrectly.

“Themusclesareintendedtocontractandliftas iftoholdbackurineandgas,breathingshouldbe

normal,andtherestofthebodyshouldremainrelatively relaxed,”shesays.“Inclinic,weseesignificantissues withincoordinationthatcanactuallyprovokepainor promoteimpairedbowel andbladder mechanics.”

Evenwithpostpartumexercise,theideathata womanshouldbehealedandbacktoherpre-pregnancy physicalconditionwithinafewweeksofgivingbirth isoutmoded:“Themedicalcommunityisrecognizing thatthepostpartumperiod,frequentlyreferredtoasthe fourthtrimester,canlast12monthsorlonger,”Miller says.“Musculoskeletalchangesthatdevelopthroughout pregnancydonotautomaticallyreversethemselves byvirtueofgivingbirth.Often,birth-relatedissues that persist after thesix-weekcheckup areregarded asnormal,long-termsideeffectsofpregnancywhen, infact,theycanbeaddressedbypelvichealth physical therapists.”

PelvicfloorPTsalsoprovideinstructionand supporttosafelyreturntoexerciseroutinesorsports andaddressanynewmusculoskeletalissuesthatmay ariseasaresultofcaringforanewbaby.

Althoughtakingcareofthebodyisimportant,a newparent’smental healthisequally critical.Asmany as20percentofnewmothersand10percentofnew fathers experienceanxiety,depressionor other mental healthdisordersduringtheyearfollowingbirth.Those persistinglongerthantwoweeksafterbirthcan becomeseriousmentalhealthissues.

“Newparenthoodisfilledwithparadox,”saysTara Tinnin,alicensedmedicalsocialworkerandprogram coordinator oftheWashington UniversityinSt.Louis’ PerinatalBehavioralHealthService.“Youcanfeelso manyoppositeemotionsatthesametime:lonelyand overstimulated,joyful andsad,scaredandexcited, in

JenniferMiller

TaraTinnin

loveandwantingyourownspace,wantingthemto benearyoubutfeelingtouched-out,exhaustedand energized,etc.Itcanbeconfusingandleadtoselfjudgement.It’simportantto understandthisisnormal.”

Tinninurgesnewparentstohaverealistic expectationsandensuretheyhavepostpartumsupport, includingplansforself-care,sleep,nutrition,care forolderchildren,householdresponsibilitiesand relationships.Communication between partners and other supportiveindividualsis crucialtoensuring needsarerecognizedandmet.

“Itsoundscliché,butsleepandgoodnutritionare so,soimportant for newparents’mental healthand wellness,”Tinninsays.“Andit’seasiersaidthandone. Thisiswherehavingaplancancomeintoplay–there areworksheetsonlinetohelpguidethis:haveaplan forwhocanhelptakecareofhouseholdchores,who canprovidemeals,whocanholdthebabywhileyou sleep[and]whatnighttimecarewilllooklike.”

Most importantly,Tinninurges anynewparent whoisstrugglingwithintrusive,persistentnegative moodstoseekprofessionalhelp.

“Youarenotalone,andyouarenotabadparent ifyouexperiencenegativethoughtsorfeelings throughoutyourpregnancyorinthepostpartum period,”shesays.“Thesesymptomsarecommonand treatable.Reachoutforhelpandsupport.Youhave tofirsttakecareofyourselfbeforeyoucanraise atinyhuman,andthat’sOK.”

WashingtonUniversityinSt.LouisProgram inPhysicalTherapy,314-286-1940,pt.wustl.edu

WashingtonUniversityinSt.LouisPerinatal BehavioralHealthService,314-454-5052, perinatalbehavioralhealth.wustl.edu

Forthosestrugglingwithinfertility, miscarriageorneonatalloss,our expertsrecommendtheseresources:

AMEND: AidingMothersandFathers ExperiencingNeonatalDeath,314-291-0892

Annie’sHope,annieshope.org

PostpartumSupportInternational’speer-led supportgroupsforinfertilityandloss, postpartum.net/get-help

RESOLVE: TheNationalInfertilityAssociation, resolve.org

WashingtonUniversityinSt.Louis’Fertility& ReproductiveMedicineCenter,fertility.wustl.edu

BIG RIGCareers

ByBrittanyNay | PhotoscourtesyofGirlScouts ofEasternMissouriandDot Transportation,Inc.

TheGirlScoutsofEasternMissourigotaninsidelookatanindustry lackingwomeninitsworkforcethankstoapartnershipwith WomenInTruckingandDotTransportation,Inc.

Climbinginsidean18-wheeler,agroupofareaGirlScoutsrecently receivedafirsthandaccountofacareerinthebigrigindustryfrom twofemaledrivers

Togivegirlsingradessixto12thisup-closeandpersonallook attheworldoftruckdrivingfromafemaleperspective,GirlScouts ofEasternMissouriteamedupwithWomenInTruckingthroughapartnership withDotTransportation,Inc.,thetruckingaffiliateofDotFoods,NorthAmerica’s largest food industryredistributor.

Thenewprogram’stimingisrightontarget,astheAmericanTrucking Associationreportsitsindustryisinneedofdrivers.Theprogrameducated agroupofGirlScoutsonhowtheirtalentscouldservetheindustryinvarious roles—fromaprofessionaldriver,engineer,businessowner,technicianor trainerto acorporateprofessional.

“Itisimportantforgirlstolearnaboutmanydifferentcareerpaths throughouttheirchildhoodandseewomenworkinginthoseroles,sothey feelinspiredtofollowtheirdreamsandaspirationsforthefuture,”saysNicole Dalton,directorofprogramsandpartnershipsforGirlScoutsofEasternMissouri.

TheGirlScoutsspecificallymetsistersReneeandTanisha,whoboth pivotedtotruckingfromotherindustries.

“Reneewasanurseinfamilypracticepriortojoiningthetruckingindustry,” DotbrandmanagerChristineIovaldisays.“Shewantedmorefreedom,soher familyencouragedhertogetherCDL(commercialdriver’slicense).Shecallsher CDL‘agoldenticket’andsaystheopportunitiesareendlessonceyouhaveit.”

Duringatourofhertruck,Reneeshowedthegirlshowshepersonalizesit for her life–from meal prep tools to decorations to itemsfor comfort.

“[Thegirls]lovedgettingintheDottruckandtrailer,”Iovaldisays.“They couldn’tbelievehowbigthetrailerwasinsideandhowcomfortableandspacious thetruckwas.Onegirlsaid,‘It’slikeamini-apartment!’Thegirlsaskedawesome questionslike,‘Howlongdoesdrivingschooltake?’and,‘Howmanyhourscan youbeoutontheroadatonce?’”

“Truckdriverscomefromallbackgrounds,whichwaseye-openingforthem,” Iovaldicontinues.“ThegirlswereinspiredbyReneeandTanisha’sexcitement abouttheopportunities,payandbenefitsthatcomewithlifeontheroad.”

Reneeencouragedthegirlstoconsideracareerintruckinginthefuture–not just“behindthewheel,”Iovaldisays,“butalsothesupportingroles,[including] safety,marketing,management,logisticsandwarehousing.”

Alotofmisconceptionsabouttheindustrywereaddressedduringthe program,Daltonadds.

“Beforethisprogram,mostofthegirlsweren’tawareofthelogisticsof trucking,includingwheredriverseatandsleep,aswellashowtheytrackwhat theyaredoingandwheretheyaregoing,”shesays.“Manygirlsalsoweren’taware thattruckingwassuchafemale-friendlyindustry,andIthinkthisprogram openedtheireyestonewcareerpossibilities.”

DotTransportation,Inc.,1DotWay,Mt.Sterling,Illinois,877-896-1692

GirlScoutsofEasternMissouri,2300BallDrive,St.Louis,314-592-2300, girlscoutsem.org

Thegirls were inspired by Reneeand Tanisha’sexcitement abouttheopportunities, pay andbenefitsthatcome with life onthe road.”

THE TRIO

NOEL Joyeux

By Nancy Robinson

Conjure a French country Christmas aesthetic with vintage-inspired home décor in the festive colors of the season.

“Woah, Nellie! Holiday Horse” is a sweet 20-by-20-inch painting by artist Terri Palmer. It’s printed on cabinetgrade plywood with an old-fashioned distressed effect. (redhorsevintage.com)

The Sherry Kline Home French country comforter set includes a 92-by-96-inch toile comforter; two coordinating standard pillow shams, adorned with gimp and cording; and a gathered buffalo-check dust skirt with an 18-inch drop. (neimanmarcus.com)

Present your holiday treats

on royal copenhagen’s Star Fluted christmas dish decorated with spruce garland, ornaments and bows. It’s just one piece in royal copenagen’s handcrafted dinner set that’s certain to become a favorite family holiday tradition. (sashanicholas.com)

The Local Beauty Gift Guide 2022

By Amanda Dahl

There is a gift out there that everyone can appreciate – a gift that keeps on giving. Shop these St. Louis-based beauty brands, and give the perfect gift for anyone on your holiday list: nourished skin and hair.

Face

The key to a good skincare routine is to keep it clean: Removing makeup each night is a must to prevent dirt and oil build-up, which can clog your pores and lead to acne, while further aging your skin. Get Leighed Cosmetics offers a gentle cleansing oil named “striptease” that dares you to bare.

Step up your self-care with Blissoma’s Lavish – Loving Recovery Beta-Glucan mask, which features eco-friendly ingredients and soothes dry, sensitive and irritated skin. Soaplife360 offers a Strange Fruit Hydra Jelly mask, which hydrates with a cooling formula that promises a dewy complexion.

Simplifying skin care for men, Modern Ritual (formerly known as Get Mr.) created The Daily 3-in-1 face lotion to combine moisturizer and aftershave with the all-important sunscreen to protect against skin cancer.

Ensuring clean skin care products, Lark Skin Co. in Webster Groves designed the CoQ10 + Sea Buckthorn Age Defy facial oil to pack a punch as a daily moisturizer with ingredients that encourage collagen production and stimulate skin cell regeneration.

Of course, your lips also deserve a little love. Look to BOCA Studio’s BOCA lip exfoliant paired with Mrs. B’s Cracked Lip Repair for a fix to keep your puckers baby-soft all winter long and beyond.

And forget about itchy scruff and static electricity giving your neck grief. Use BeardStrong balm by Maplewood’s Roughneck Beard Company, which tames the beard with a leave-in conditioner that promises daylong benefits.

Body

When in need of a luxurious soak, look to K. Hall Studio’s U.S. Apothecary line. Its Elderflower & Vetiver bath soak brings the benefits of bathing in mineral salts, such as relieving stress and soothing sore muscles. Meanwhile, the Chamomile & Honey Bath Elixir heals irritated, dry skin, making it an ideal addition for wintertime.

Post-bath, keep your skin nourished with Clay Cosmetics’ Ultimate Moisturizing Body Butter, which offers daylong protectant from dry climates, is made by hand and features cruelty-free ingredients.

If you prefer smooth skin, whether on your face, armpits or legs, you will appreciate The Sudsy Soapery’s Creamy Aftershave balm. Available in numerous scents, including the soothing Lavender & Peppermint, this thick post-shave protectant features sustainably sourced ingredients. ln

LANDSCAPE Gardening Gifts

By Pat Raven, Ph.D., with Julie Hess

Whether you have an avid gardener in your life or someone starting to tap into that green thumb of theirs, these gifts are sure to make the recipient want to dig in – literally.

From

the Garden

Gardeners always have something to share. Because I am starting a completely new garden this spring, I am going to share some of the special plants I dug up and divided from my West County landscape before moving into a new home. The most cherished are the little seedlings of my hellebores, broad-leaved Lenten and Christmas roses, as well as the slender-leaved stinking hellebore with elegant green flowers. I’m also sharing bulbs from my most prolific surprise lilies along with new daffodils ordered earlier in the season. Seeds of the hardy begonia, passed from gardener to gardener, will also be included in a few special holiday cards. My mint grew fabulously this year, so I will also be gifting homegrown mint tea.

The Birds and the Bees

After my last column, I had some inquiries about great candles. I am extremely fond of pure beeswax candles, tapers or pillars for their delicate fragrance, clean burn and natural source. My uncle kept bees and always shared his one-source honey, but if you are not an apiarist, seek out local honey for giftgiving. For the natural garden, bee houses will also encourage solitary native bees and help preserve our pollinators. Because they need to be replaced every year or two, any gardener would appreciate a new one. Speaking of housing, new bird and bat houses are also on my new garden wish list, as I left mine during the move. Mr. and Mrs. Bluebird

have been using the same house for years, so I simply couldn’t take it away. The bat houses also have regular tenants, so new ones will be needed as well.

Tools of the Trade

Ergonomic, comfortable, well-crafted hand tools are essential for gardening. Any high-quality hand tools can become treasured heirlooms. I am still using my grandmother’s gardening knife, for example. FELCO, the red-handled gold standard for pruners, offer many specialty configurations, including those for small hands, limited range of motion and, most significantly, a special lefthander version. When I was sorting through my

gardening tools to reduce their number for the new, smaller garden, all of the premium spades, shovels and forks made the cut. Lee Valley Tools has a marvelous stainless steel spade and fork set – perfect for the forever gardener. My wooden trugs made the move as well, along with my wooden potting bench and leather gardening gloves. Quality meets sustainability when implements are durable.

Visit the Garden Gate Shop in the new Taylor Visitor Center at the Missouri Botanical Garden for a great selection of plant and garden books. When you don’t know what a fellow gardener wants or needs, a gift certificate for a local nursery or gift membership to the botanical garden will always be appreciated. ln

W ishing y ouall thejo ysofthe holidayseason and e v er y happiness inthe newyear!

• MariaElias iaElias ConnieO ConnieO’Connell ’Connell Sar SaraMacellaio aMacellaio

Sustainable S TORIED

ByBrittanyNay |PhotosbyDylanPritchardandcourtesyofRichardHigbyDesign

EachpieceofRichardHigby’s handcrafted,timelesslydesigned new furniturecollaboration tellsitsown sustainablestory.

TheSt.Louis-basedfurniture designerandbuilder’seponymousfirm, RichardHigbyDesign,collaboratedwithfellow localbusiness,UntoldAmericanHardwoods, tocreatetheCarawayCollectionthathas recentlylaunched withalineofsophisticated, Scandinavian-styledeskshandmade from locallyharvested hardwoods.

Witha25-yearhistoryofcreatingcustom furniture, millworkandlimited-runproductionand licensedpieces,Higbysayshisfocus“hasalways beenon well-madecontemporaryfurniture.”

Afterfoundinghisresidentialfurniture businessinChicago’sWickerParkneighborhood, HigbymovedtoSt.Louisin2010,takingajobwith aglobalretailfixturecompanywhereheworked withsomeoftheworld’stopretailbrands.However, missingthe creative elementsof hisownventure ledhimbackintobusinessforhimself.

Fromasmallwood-andmetal-workingstudio inthePatchneighborhoodofSt.Louis’Carondelet area,Higbymakeseverythingfrom mediacenters, modernstaircasesandfireplacesurroundsto historicstorefrontsfor residential,retailand hospitalityprojects.

Higby’srecent partnershipwithUntold combines hisdesignandprototypingexperience withUntold’smanufacturingexpertiseandaccess tomillingandsourcingofsustainablelumber.

Withabeliefthatpeopledeservetoknowthe historyandstewardshipofthematerialsintheir everyday environments,Untold aims to “enrich peoples’livesthroughconnectionswithnature, historyandself”byharvestingend-of-lifetrees fromSt.Louisandsurroundingareasandusing that lumbertocreatequalityfurniture,according toitswebsite.Thismissionresonatedwith Higby,andastoried,sustainablecollaboration wasborn.

“Inrecentyears,I’vebecomeincreasingly concernedaboutthelackofqualityandthe extremefocusonshort-livedtrendsofmany modernfurniturecompanies,”Higbyshares. “Mostoftheselow-price,low-qualitypieces areinthelandfillwithinafewyears.”

Instarkcontrasttotheindustry’sfastfurnituretrends,thecustom,small-batch CarawayCollection,whilepricier,issustainably sourcedandwell-builtwithheirloomquality andtimelessdesign.Desksfromthecurrent productionutilizeblackwalnut,whiteoakor whiteashtreesfelledinstormsortakendown forsafetyreasons–notsourcedthroughmass clear-cuttingofforestslikethelumberused bymanyfurniturecompanies,Higbynotes.

“Whetherit’swalnutfromahorsefarm inFentonor whiteoak from astorm-damaged

treeinForestParkorWebsterGroves,this high-qualitywoodisharvested,milledand kiln-driedspecificallyforproductionofUntold Hardwoods’furniture–andistraceabletothe sitefromwhichitwasharvested,”heexplains, emphasizingthat eachcreation hasitsown historyandsenseofplace.

Higbyselectsthehighestqualitypiecesfor eachdesk’smostvisibleareas,whileusingwood withknotsandcosmeticdefectsinhiddenor less-observableinteriors.“Thisgivesusavery highyield,ensuringwe’regoodstewardsto ourlocalresources,”headds.

Themodestlyscaleddesk,withdesignroots in ScandinavianandShakerfurniture,makeit anidealfocalpointforevenmoderatelysized contemporary or traditionalabodes.

Thepiecesalsofeature inspired, interesting details–asignatureofhisdesigns.Namely,when oneofthedrawersisopenedwithitssleekbrass pull,theuserisgreetedwithasurprisesplashof color–redisrevealedinsidethewhiteashdesk, sagegreen complementstheblack walnut option andteal lieswithinthewhiteoak version.

“Thethreadthatconnectsall[my]projects isemphasisondesigndetailsandhonestyof materialswithrespecttoarchitecturalsetting, brandorenduser,”Higbysays.

TheCarawayCollectionwillexpandin2023 witharangeoffurniture,includingaversatile piecetobeusedasasidetableornightstand, Higbysays,addingthatthelinewillavoidthe mainstreamindustry’smatchingcollection trend,andrather,betiedtogetherwith signaturedetails.

Toshopthecollection’slimitedinventory, visituntoldhardwoods.com.

RichardHigbyDesign,St.Louis,773-972-9706, richard-higby-design.com

UntoldAmericanHardwoods,St.Louis, untoldhardwoods.com

SAINT

LOUIS SCIENCE CENTER

VIP RECEPTION FOR ‘BECOMING JANE’

In late October, VIP guests had the opportunity to attend a special reception for the Saint Louis Science Center’s new exhibition, “Becoming Jane: The Evolution of Dr. Jane Goodall.” Guests enjoyed themed food and drinks and listened to talks from experts from the Saint Louis Zoo and Washington University in St. Louis. Guests were invited to tour the exhibition, which offers a comprehensive history of Goodall’s life – from childhood to her work with chimpanzees in Africa. In addition, the exhibition features several audio-visual components, including one that allows for guests to mimic chimpanzee calls and be judged for accuracy.

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

The Science Center is thrilled to welcome our philanthropic partners to celebrate our newest special exhibition. It honors the contributions Dr. Jane Goodall has made throughout her career to advancing science and highlights the importance of sustainability and conservation.

– TODD BASTEAN SAINT LOUIS SCIENCE CENTER CEO

Photos and story by Bryan Schraier

Dick Fleming, Todd Bastean, Pat Galvin

Bill and Lucy Conley

Holly and Craig Stewart

Patti La Brott, Lisa and Ethan Woods

Faculty and students from Washington University in St. Louis

SAFE CONNECTIONS

THE LOTUS BALL

Safe Connections hosted its annual Lotus Ball at the Missouri Athletic Club in downtown St. Louis recently to honor the organization’s work to reduce the impact and incidence of relationship violence and sexual assault. To begin the night, guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, followed by a multi-course dinner. Meanwhile, those in attendance heard accounts of Safe Connections’ past successes and ended the night with a fundraiser held by auctioneer Jennifer Henderson. All proceeds from the Lotus Ball will continue to fund efforts to end domestic violence through crisis intervention, prevention education and therapy. This year’s impact award went to Eric and Julie Hahn; event co-chairs were Dawn Johnson and Risé Black.

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

The Lotus Ball allows us to secure necessary funds to continue offering services to the community and helping those who need us. It’s great to be back in person after having to do things remotely, and it’s a great time for our supporters to come celebrate what they’ve helped us achieve over the past years.

Photos and story by James J. Anderson

Julie and Eric Hahn

Ross and Lailah Conner

Dawn Johnson, Risé Black

Cillah Hall, Jovita Oruwari

Aranya Ajith, Bonnie Miget, Lata Solanki, Vinitha Gokaraju

– CYNTHIA DANLEY SAFE CONNECTIONS CEO

STEPPING OUT FOR THE ANGELS GALA

J. Anderson

Angels’ Arms celebrated its 22nd annual Stepping Out for the Angels Gala with a theme of paradise and palm trees. Guests sipped on tropical drinks and enjoyed dinner and dessert with tropical music playing in the background. Attendees made donations to both silent and live auctions and listened to speeches recalling Angels’ Arms’ accomplishments over the years. All proceeds from the event go toward helping families provide safe homes and growth to foster children. The special guest emcee this year was Heidi Glaus.

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

The 22nd annual Stepping Out for the Angels Gala is the flagship event that generates critical funds to support our mission for engaging local communities, providing homes, resources and experiences. This event provides an opportunity to celebrate our longtime supporters and highlight successful outcomes for our foster children and families.

– TOM HARTNAGEL EVENT CHAIR

Photos and story by James

John and Sandy Rocco, Gary and Lynn Mueller

Peggy and Gene Lewis

Marcia Wolf, Heidi Glaus

Libby Hartnagel, Katie Glickert

Aaron and Heather Craig, Kama Brown, Brittnay Jewlett

ST. LOUIS AQUARIUM FOUNDATION

MAKING WAVES GALA

and story by James J. Anderson

The St. Louis Aquarium Foundation’s Making Waves Gala made a big splash this year at the aquarium in Union Station. Surrounded by acrobatic dancers and live animals, attendees were given complimentary leis, along with snacks and oceanthemed cocktails. Donations to the foundation involved a big shark and fish raffle and a fund-a-need raffle and auction. After dinner, guests were led through the aquarium’s exhibits and ended the night with dessert and coffee. Proceeds from the gala provide community education and access to aquatic science programs for youth.

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

Photos

Jerry and Mendi Phillips

Kirsten and Steve Behrens

Abbi Breler, Maranda LaBrier, Ashley Walsh

Mark Hinnah, Van Tran

Melissa and Robert Merlin

The St. Louis Aquarium Foundation is dedicated to providing access for all through our H2O Friends program, and the Making Waves Gala is our primary fundraiser for that purpose. We are grateful to all those who provide inspiration to future biologists, educators and conservationists through this program.

– STEPHEN O’LOUGHLIN ST. LOUIS AQUARIUM FOUNDATION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

THE SALVATION ARMY OF GREATER ST. LOUIS

REIMAGINE ’75 FASHION SHOW

and story by Bryan Schraier

On Oct. 15, the Salvation Army of Greater St. Louis celebrated the 75th anniversary of its Tree of Lights campaign with a 1970s-themed fashion show. A dozen local designers were featured in the show, showcasing groovy looks inspired the year. In addition, guests enjoyed a ’70s musical montage sung by performer SYA, as well as nostalgic cocktails and throwback hors d’oeuvres. Prizes were awarded by three judges, with Casherel Thirdkill’s Crochet Granny Square-inspired look taking first place.

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

I get excited about [the event] because our young professionals are leading this cause. They’re the catalysts behind coming up with the idea, the plans, figuring out the best way to do it. They raise money so that we can continue to meet needs here in the Greater St. Louis area. We’re really honored that they’re doing this for us.

Photos

SYA

Sarah Mangapora, Daron Hendrix

Olivia Hirt, Matthew Anderson

Vicki White, Patti Christen

Linda Gulledge, Freda Branch, Angela Ruffin-Stacker, Karla Radford

– LT. COL. BOB WEBSTER

PHOTO

Simply Delicious

Story and photos by Mabel Suen

Simply Delicious, which debuted in August in downtown St. Louis, is a new daytime dining destination featuring breakfast, lunch and brunch fare in a casual setting.

The concept comes from Brandi and Brittany Artis, who are also co-owners of 4 Hens Creole Kitchen at City Foundry. Simply Delicious originated in Brandi Artis’ hometown of Kansas City, Missouri, where she established it as her catering brand in 2010. She previously operated the company in Chicago as a pop-up taco bar. With the new brick-and-mortar space, Simply Delicious now has a permanent home.

Simply Delicious fills the approximately 1,200-square-foot building previously occupied by Good Buddy’s Tasty Soups & Sandwiches and features an interior dining area, front patio seating and a hidden back patio that can be accessed from the building’s side lot. The space is also available during non-business hours for event rental, complete with specialized catering menus.

“My personal cooking style is what feels good

to my soul,” Brandi Artis says. “I create dishes that remind me of fond memories and different places I’ve been. Both of my grandmothers and their love of seafood and New Orleans-style food inspired me to create the 4 Hens concept to really demonstrate the true Creole basis of flavors in a fun quick-service format, but there’s no one basis to my cooking style here. It is quite worldly.”

Highlights include the Bad and Boujee Burger, a 6-ounce angus beef patty topped with shrimp, pepper jack cheese, spring mix, tomato, red onion and 4 Hens remoulade on a buttered brioche bun. Shakshuka is another signature dish inspired by Brandi Artis’ Lebanese heritage. Her take on the traditional dish comes with a poached egg in housemade tomato sauce topped with feta and cilantro. Salmon croquettes are also an homage to Brandi Artis’ grandmother, featuring a gluten-free version of a generations-old recipe.

A liquor license for the business is in the works, but for now guests can choose from a selection of nonalcoholic beverages like fresh-pressed orange juice, French press coffee, loose-leaf teas and Little Chicks Lemonade drinks created with the Artis’

children, Braylei and Britton.

“We want to be your new favorite brunch spot and your new Sunday fun day place to hang out,” Brandi Artis says. “We just wanted to create something a little bit different for St. Louis to be able to enjoy and experience outside of the mundane and the norm.” ln

Simply Delicious, 1115 Pine St., St. Louis, 314-802-7287, facebook.com/simplydeliciousstl

Helpingthefamiliesofthosewho MADETHEULTIMATESACRIFICE

orsufferedacatastrophicinjuryforoursafety.

Since1959,TheBackStoppershasassistedmorethan180familiesofpoliceofficers,firefightersandpublicly-funded paramedics/EMTsintheregionwhomadetheultimatesacrificeorsufferedacatastrophicinjuryinthelineofduty.

TheBackStopperssupportsfamiliesoffallenheroesbypayingoffalldebt,providinghealthanddentalinsurance,reimbursing forout-of-pocketmedicalexpenses,andassistingwithtuitionandeducationalcostsfromdaycarethroughuniversity.The BackStoppersprovidesroughly$2.5millioninassistanceeachyear.Wearesincerelygratefulforyourdedicationtoour missionthatmadethisassistancepossible.Thankyouforyourgeneroussupport.

ChiefKevinCremer

By Sheila Oliveri

With winter well on its way, children are wishing for a boots-, hats- and mittens-required snowstorm. However, it’s important to remember that the best snowy day also requires courage, strength and determination – essentials needed for an exhilarating sleigh ride down a steep, snowy hill. Ready Readers recommends two books that are sure to excite young winter sports enthusiasts.

“Little Red Sled,” by author Erin Guendelsberger and illustrator Elizaveta Tretyakova, is the story of a small glider with a big dream: to become Santa’s sleigh. Surrounded by naysayers in the toyshop, Little Red bravely sets off to prove she has the power and resilience to make her dreams come true. Journeying through muck and mud across

rickety bridges, up steep hills and treacherous mountain paths in a snowstorm, Little Red meets a few friends who offer assistance and encouragement. During her odyssey, and with a bit of help from Santa, Little Red finds an alternate happy ending she’d never considered.

A delightful companion book for your winter story time is “Sleigh, Sleigh, Sleigh All Day,” the story of young Damilola and her first sleighing encounter, by author and Olympian Simidele Adeagbo, with illustrations by Petra Paliskova. Awakening to her first snowy day, Damilola peeks out the window to see laughing children excitedly zipping down the hill on sleds. She wants to experience the thrill but isn’t sure she’s brave enough to try. Damilola’s mother leads her in an affirming mantra to focus her thoughts

and strengthen her resolve, allowing Damilola to tackle the new adventure.

Adeagbo knows firsthand the commitment needed to become a skilled athlete. Years of training paid off in 2018 as Adeagbo became Nigeria’s first Winter Olympian and the first African and Black woman to compete in Skeleton in a Winter Olympics. In a recent visit to Ready Readers, Adeagbo shared the unique perspective that informs her first children’s book. ln

Literacy is a gateway to equity, and Ready Readers expands literacy for young children in low-income communities through distribution of high-quality books, strong relationships and literacy-related experiences. Learn more at readyreaders.org.

Thisiswhat retirement lookslike

Retirementhas c hangedme .I’ll giv ey ousomeexamples.

BeforeIturnedoffmymicrophoneatKMOXradio,Igotupeverymorningat5:45. Now,Iregularlysleepintill6:15.

Iusedtospendtheearlymorningporingoverthenewspapertostayabreastofthelocal issueswe’ddiscussonmymorningradioshowandthenagainThursdayeveningon Channel9’sDonnybrook.

Ok,Istillconsumealotofnews.Butnow,it’sbecauseIliketostayinformed.And, retiredornot,I’mstillDonnybrook’sresidentprovocateur.

Asaretiredperson,IalsositstilllessthanIusedto.SinceMay,mywifeBethandI havetraveledmorethan20,000miles.I’vetakengolflessonsandstudiedFrench.But retirementisnotallfunandgames.Irakeleavesandtakeoutthegarbagemore,too.

Sinceretiring,I’vealsoledeffortstoplant10,000daffodilbulbsinForestParkand alongtheRiverDesPeresandtoenhanceaHanleyRoadunderpasswithchalkart. EvenusoldguyswanttomakeSt.Louisaprettierplace.

I alsohikemore.I log25,000stepsse veraldaysaweek.On S unday mornings, I sometimes r unupanddownthestepsatCahokiaMounds20timesormore.Why do I doit?Because Ic an.Also,I’m 63. W ho’sgoingtostopme?

ThatremindsmeofonethingthathasNOTchangedsincemyretirement:myweekly

appointmentat20MinutestoFitnessinClayton,whereIhaveworkedoutsince2006.

Thehalfhour I spendthereonWednesday afternoonshelpsmebuildthestrengthand maintaintheenerg yI needtolive thisglamorous retirementlifestyle

AtmysideismypersonaltrainerDarrellConnor.Heguidesmethroughaseriesof exercisesdesignedtoworkeverymajormusclegrouponspecializedMedXequipment.

There’snocheatingwithDarrell.There’salsonoworryaboutinjuringmyselfby performinganexerciseincorrectly.

Overtheyears,Darrellhasalsobecomeafriend.RememberthoseSundaymorningsat CahokiaMoundsImentioned?Darrellrunsthosestepswithme.

Thetruthisthestaffat20Minutesto Fitnessare all first-rate. Many have backgroundsin physicaltherapy orexercise physiolog y.Aphysicaltherapy assistantnamedRobb recently worked wonders on mysore shoulder.Othershave helpedmetrainsafely while recovering froma hip replacementand a hernia.

Ifyou’rebusy,orifyourstrengthandbalancearen’twhattheyusedtobe,oryou’retired ofbeingoutofshape,Isuggestyougive20MinutestoFitnessacall.First-timersgeta complimentaryin-personconsultationandworkout.Youcan’tbeatfree.

Ifyou’relikeme,you’llfeelbetterandhaveamorepositiveoutlookafterwards.Retired ornot.

Just20minutes.Justonceaweek.

Formoreinformationon20MinutestoFitness,callitslocalstudiosin Clayton(314-863-7836),Chesterfield(636-536-1504),SarasotaorTampa,orvisit20MinutesToFitness.com.

RetiredKM OX hostCharlesBrennan t alksabouthisne w lif e ofleisur e.

byCharlesBrennan

The Best Shows of 2022

By Mark Bretz | Photos by T charles erickson

St. Louis area theater companies returned in 2022 with full seasons, though some groups did reduce their number of productions. Still, with proper protocol due to the lingering reality of the COVID-19, several stellar productions were mounted for welcoming audiences.

The year’s best show, in my highly subjective opinion, was the touring production of “Hadestown” at The Fabulous Fox Theatre in October. This 2019 Tony Award-winning musical written by Anais Mitchell beautifully blends folk, pop, jazz, country and more into a dazzling update of two ancient Greek myths, making them as affecting and enchanting as ever.

STAGES St. Louis took a big gamble early in the year, banking on the conviction that the popularity of a beloved ’80s movie, “The Karate Kid,” could translate to the stage in a world premiere musical. “The Karate Kid, the Musical” played to packed houses at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center en route to Broadway in 2023 or 2024.

The St. Louis Black Repertory Company produced the area’s best local production of 2022, “Behind the Sheet,” at Washington University’s Edison Theatre. A remarkable drama written by Charly Evon Simpson, it was harrowing, shocking and, most amazing of all, based on real people from the 19th century — including “the father of modern gynecology,” who conducted research on Black slaves before applying his treatment to white women.

Jennifer Theby Quinn excelled in two onewoman performances — a searing Welsh drama titled, “Iphigenia in Splott” at Upstream Theater in January, and then a rollicking comedy, “The Twelve Dates of Christmas,” at The Playhouse at Westport Plaza, in November and December. Upstream later presented the world premiere of

playwright and artistic director Philip Boehm’s sobering drama, “The Good Ship St. Louis,” a Holocaust story that resonated beyond World War II into other cultures and eras.

There were many other notable productions throughout the year, including The Muny premiere of the Stephen Sondheim saga, “Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street,” Stray Dog Theatre’s gripping rendition of “The Normal Heart” and Fly North Theatrical’s clever take on Sondheim’s musical, “Assassins.”

St. Louis Actors’ Studio offered a witty rendition of the ribald comedy, “Hand to God.” West End Players Guild scored with a fabulously funny production of Martin McDonagh’s savage masterpiece, “The Lonesome West.” New Line Theatre treated its audiences to a top-notch version of the dark comic and relevant musical, “Urinetown.” New Jewish Theatre offered a splendid and poignant version of Ken Ludwig’s World War II story, “Dear Jack, Dear Louise.”

St. Louis Shakespeare Festival presented

Deanna Jent’s original work, “Bevo Mill,” which weaved a tale about the local Bosnian community in and out of The Bard’s “The Comedy of Errors,” for its “Shakespeare in the Streets” annual production.

Union Avenue Opera did a wonderful job with still another Sondheim piece, “A Little Night Music.” Opera Theatre of Saint Louis staged compelling presentations of “Harvey Milk” and “Awakenings.”

We can’t forget SATE’s entertaining and literarily witty piece, “Bronte Sister House Party,” all about novelist sisters Emily, Charlotte and Anne, of the Bronte clan. And the truth was out there in Joe Hanrahan’s UFO story, “Anomalous Experience,” which was performed by the artistic director’s The Midnight Company.

Whether it was Robert Ashton’s new Albion Theatre and its version of “Heroes,” the womenfocused Prism Theatre Company and its world premiere of “Bandera, Texas,” or a myriad of other local troupes’ work, theater in the St. Louis area returned in fine form in 2022. ln

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AsastudentintheSt.Louismetroarea,OliviaPolkdreamed ofbeingapublishedauthor.AsacollegestudentatWilliams CollegeinMassachusetts,shesoughtawaytomakethatdream areality.

Herchildren’spicturebookstartedasaclassproject andbecameapost-graduationsidehustle–acreativepassionproject outsidetheworldofherNewYorkCitydayjobinadvertising.In2019,Polk submitted“MillietheMagicalStoneSkipper”forpublicationwithGirl FridayProductions,aSeattle-basedpublishingservicesagencysupporting independentauthors.Now,in2022,she’sbackintheSt.Louisareatotour bookstores,schoolsandotherbusinessesandshowcasethefinishedproduct.

“Mygrandmotherandgreat-grandmothercollectedchildren’sbooks,”Polk reflectsonherinspiration.“Therewerethousandsofchildren’sbooksinmy grandmother’sbasement.I’vejustalwayslovedartandthecombinationofart andstory,sothat’swhyIchosetopursueit.”

PolkgraduatedfromLadue’sMaryInstituteandSaintLouisCountryDay Schoolin2014andcontinuedtodevelopherpassionforreadingandwriting duringherundergraduatestudiesatWilliamsCollege,whereshetooka courseonfolkandfairytalesthroughouthistory.Oneoftheassignments taskedtheclasswithmodernizingaclassictale,andPolkselectedtheBrother Grimm’s“TheFourSkillfulBrothers.”

TheGermanfairytaledatesbackfarbeyondtheageofsmartphones andelectriccars.Itfollowsfourbrotherswhogooutintotheworldtolearn differenttradesandskills,andaftersometime,theyreturnhometotheir fatherandmustputtheseskillstothetestinvariousscenarios,including rescuingamaidenfromadragon.

“It’sanoldfairytaletemplateinwhichfourbrothersdeploydifferent skillstosaveaprincess,”Polkadds.

Polkflippedthisscriptonitsheadwhencraftinghernarrative.She transformedthesettingintotheWildWest–“MillietheMagicalStone Skipper”takesplaceinIdaho’sTetonValley–andswappedoutoneofthe brotherswithMillie,ayounggirlandcreative,independentproblem-solver wholeadswithherheart.Theresultisacharmingtalethatfostersalove andwonderoftheoutdoorsinyoungreaders.And,asPolkputsit,thestory encouragesyoungreadersto“dreambigger,aimhigherandnevergiveup onthethingstheyenjoy.”

“ImodernizedthemoralbymakingMillietheheroine.Whenthethree strongbrothersdisappeartopursuetheirambitions,shegetstoknowanew sideofherselfandendsupsavingthedaywiththisuniquetalentthatshe discovers,”shedescribes,addingthatthestoryswapsmaleambitionwith femaleambition

“MillietheMagicalStoneSkipper”islushlyillustratedbyfreelanceartist VanyaLiang.Sweepinglandscapesandsweetlyrenderedinteractionsfillthe pagesofthechildren’sbook.Herworkisatestamenttothetwocreatives’ collaborationthroughoutthedevelopmentprocess–andtoPolk’stime spent inthegreat outdoors

“IgrewupinSt.Louisandspentmanysummersasakidcanoeingthe riversofMissouri,”Polksaysofthereal-lifesettingthatinspiredthestory. “WealsospenttimeoutwestandbuiltacabinintheTetonValley.Thestory takesplaceouttherebecauseIwantedittohaveawesternvibe,andI wantedtocelebratetheriversandmountainsIgrewupin.”

Polkspentthesecondhalfof2022promotingherbookbothinperson andonline.She’svisitinglocalbookstoresintheSt.Louismetroarea,aswell astheMICDSLowerSchool,CommunitySchool,LadueChapelNursery