Chesterfield, MO April 2025 by City Lifestyle

The Power Of

HEALTH + WELLNESS

INVEST IN YOUR GREENS

REVERSE FOOT PAIN

ARTS + CULTURE

LIVING WELL, LEADING WITH G.R.I.T.

IMPACTING LIVES SINCE

At The Kaiser Law Firm, P.C., the father and son team of Phil and Andy Kaiser, with over 60 years of combined experience in the estate planning, asset protection, elder law and business law fields, along with their dedicated support staff, are here in Chesterfield to meet the needs of your family and those of your business. As a family owned firm, we understand what matters to your family and your business.

St. Louis Cardinal Mike Matheny shares his experience with Kaiser Law Firm who helped him put a plan together to ensure things were set up as my family needed them to be.

Mike Matheny, St. Louis Cardinals

The Power Of Investment

Investment, by definition, is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. While financial investments often come to mind first, we can also invest in our community, relationships, health and personal growth. All with the hope that our efforts will create a lasting, positive impact.

Investing in our community can take many forms, from supporting local businesses and schools to volunteering and mentoring future generations. On a larger scale, we can stay informed and involved in city planning initiatives, participate in public surveys and engage in discussions that shape the future of our neighborhoods.

When we invest in our finances, we create stability, build wealth and work toward long-term goals, such as homeownership, retirement or financial freedom. Smart investments, whether in the stock market, real estate or personal savings, lay the foundation for security and future opportunities.

Perhaps the most profound investment we can make is in our relationships with our families, friends and those who mean the most to us. Time, presence and meaningful connections are invaluable, enriching not just our own lives but also those of the people around us. These investments yield immeasurable returns in the form of love, support and shared experiences.

As publishers, our passion is to share stories that inspire, connect and strengthen our community. Your city is our city, and we take great pride in representing the people and businesses that make it thrive.

In this edition, we explore the many ways we can invest in what matters most our community, our financial well-being and the people we hold dear. Whether it’s a local entrepreneur taking a bold step toward their dreams, a family strengthening their bonds or an initiative aimed at shaping a better future, these stories remind us that every investment we make has the power to shape our lives for the better.

KELLEY AND GORDON, PUBLISHERS @CHESTERFIELDCITYLIFESTYLEMAG

Photo on location at Oak Street Inn Speakeasy Lounge

April 2025

PUBLISHERS

Gordon Montgomery gordon.montgomery@citylifestyle.com

Kelley Lamm kelley.lamm@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Casey Pierce | casey.pierce@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Christina Iris Schmidt christina.schmidt@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Julie Brown Patton, Robin Seaton Jefferson, Mel Boban, Angela Broockerd, Kelley Lamm

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jenna Whitmore, Janie Jones, Bill Tuttle, Christina Iris Schmidt, Schyler Hohenberger, Kevin de Miranda

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick Learn

Proverbs 3:5-6

Photo by Christine Iris Schmidt

The Very Best Care.

Our Promise: You will be cared for by attentive, experienced individuals who are committed to your personal well being.

At McKnight Place Extended Care we provide individualized skilled nursing care in an elegant, residential style. Our staff of medically trained professionals is available around the clock to provide you or your loved one with the highest level of service. Our community serves individuals who need long-term skilled nursing care or short-term recovery assistance after hospitalization.

*We accept Medicare Part A for skilled nursing rehab services.

Extended Care

For more information or to schedule a tour, call (314) 993-2221

city scene

1: New Paddle Up Pickleball Club by The Staenberg Group to open at The District, Chesterfield. 2-6: Inaugural A Seat at the Table Gala at The Reverie in Chesterfield raised more than $100,000. 7: Daniel Shipp, Ph.D., currently Pittsburg State University president, selected as 11th Maryville University president.

8: Tenth president of Maryville University, Mark Lombardi, Ph.D., to retire in June 2025/academic year end. 9-11: Promotions Pronto in Chesterfield with owner Stacee Fernandez celebrating 20 years in business at Public-School-House. 12: Correction: Clarkson Valley City Administrator/City Clerk Michele McMahon retires after 29 years of service. 13: Honey Nail Lounge celebrates grand opening with a ribbon cutting. 14: Stergos family mission is to provide loving homes and resources for at-risk 18-25-year olds.

BILL TUTTLE

JENNA WHITMORE

MARYVILLE UNIVERSITY

JENNA WHITMORE

St. Louis' #1 Real Estate Company

N G WE L LEA DINGW TH G . R .

VIL

INTERNATIONAL BEST-SELLING AUTHOR JENNIFER BARDOT: “WHEN SOMEONE LIVES THEIR PASSION, SPARKS FLY.”

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

“My mantra: The more times we tell our stories, the more we heal.”

St. Louis author Jennifer Bardot’s anthology six-book series, called G.R.I.T., hit No. 1 International Best-Selling status. Standing for growth, resilience, intention and tenacity, the books are part of a series she references as the Deconstruction G.R.I.T. Collection.

“Grit encourages hope, which allows us to step into our power," she explains.

In 2021, spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic, Jennifer curated stories of 40 women into her first book, Owning Your G.R.I.T. She chose a dynamic group of women in the St. Louis area differing in age, ethnicity, industry and stage of life, all who shared stories of their paths to success and self discovery.

“No matter the shoes you select for the day, we all walk in the footsteps of those who forged a path before us,” she says.

Jennifer holds a bachelor’s degree in business and two master’s degrees in secondary education counseling and private practice therapy. The former banking

executive also holds certifications from Dare To Lead, Coro’s Women In Leadership, and Leadership St. Louis with FOCUS St. Louis.

Her sixth/most recent book is titled Living Well With G.R.I.T.

Now working independently as the CEO of G.R.I.T., she says grit is the mental key to remaining focused and motivated. Her books are about women’s inspirational stories of stepping into courage, leadership from the heart and personal evolution. The books are available via Kindle, Target, Barnes and Noble, Walmart and Amazon.

“What I’ve seen since publishing the books is readers of them get activated to either start something new or redesign their lives,” she says. “After going through the intensive journaling process, they sometimes end various types of relationships. The books are transformative.”

GritGrowthResilienceIntentionTenacity.square.site

Time for a Lip Restyle?

If you’ve been getting lip ﬁllers but aren’t thrilled with the results, it might be time for a fresh start. Whether your ﬁller has migrated, your lips have lost their natural contour, or you just don’t feel like you're seeing your lips anymore — Dr. Sarhaddi has the solution.

HOW DR. SARHADDI CAN TRANSFORM YOUR LIPS

DISSOLVE & RECONTOUR

If your filler has settled in a way that no longer enhances your lips, Dr. Sarhaddi can dissolve the old filler and recontour for a more natural, crisp pout. The process takes up to two months, with visits every two weeks, but the results are worth it!

LIP LIFT

Want to see more of your natural lip shape? A lip lift might be the solution. If fillers alone aren’t giving you the look you want, Dr. Sarhaddi can lift and redefine your lips in-office under local anesthesia. Stitches are removed in just 5 days, and a fresh refill of filler is available a few weeks later if desired.

Ready for a lip transformation? Book your consultation today with Dr. Sarhaddi and rediscover your perfect pout!

Transform Scars Into Superpowers

Sisi Siham Helps Women Rise Beyond Adversities

Sisi is so much more than her adversity. And she wants other women to understand that they are, too.

Siham “Sisi” Surgant is a mom. She speaks five languages and holds three degrees. She has traveled the world. She is a transformation coach, a designer and now a medalist in bikini bodybuilding.

But it’s her story of struggle that fuels her passion. The Cottleville woman was severely burned on her chin, midsection and legs from Moroccan tea that a family friend accidentally spilled on her in Germany when she was little more than a year old.

Sisi has taken that experience and her journeys around the globe to help others rise from the ashes, elevate their lives, and embody the best versions of themselves.

Visitors to her online boutique, ShopSIHAM, will discover a diverse range of offerings tailored to empower and inspire— from transformation coaching and styling services to exclusive collections of self-designed apparel.

“I especially love working with moms, women who’ve moved to new cities or countries, or those in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s who feel like, ‘I’m just a mom,’ or ‘I’m too old now.’ I’m here to show them what we, as women, are truly made of,” Sisi says. “It’s never too late to rediscover your potential, redefine your path and reignite your fire.”

ARTICLE BY ROBIN SEATON JEFFERSON

Born and raised in Germany to immigrant parents—her mother is Moroccan, her father, Tunisian—Sisi built a life in Germany and America from scratch. She has worked alongside renowned designers such as Yves Saint Laurent, Filippa K. and Calvin Klein.

“As a burn survivor and a double immigrant, I have faced adversity head on,” she says. “Now, I’m a proud mom of two little ones, and I still make it all work. I want to show women that they can do it too, that no matter the challenges.”

She says one of her most significant personal achievements was “stepping on stage for my first bikini bodybuilding competition, a deeply vulnerable moment as I showcased my body, scars and all. Despite the challenges, I not only competed but also won a medal. It was a transformative experience, teaching me the power of self-acceptance and resilience.”

Photo by Schyler Hohenberger

Sisi says her mission is to help women elevate their lives through building confidence, where she says “the magic happens,” by addressing their self-doubt and transforming their hardships and resilience into their “superpowers;" discovering their personal style; and focusing on their health through building sustainable habits with nutrition and exercise.

“I always thought I was very confident with my scars, but I found out going to meetings with other survivors, I was not,” Sisi says. “Now I want to help women turn their weakness

into super powers. I always felt less than everyone because I was not perfect. But now I feel like that is my superpower. Something I hated so much about myself is my superpower now.”

Her clothing brand, “MISAJO,” named for her daughter Mia, son Samson and husband John, partnered with Burns Recovered/ Midwest Children’s Burn Camp. ShopSIHAM, a brand rooted in Europe with rich influences from Andalusia, Morocco and Tunisia, donates a percentage of each sale to the organization. “I don’t believe it’s right to keep everything for yourself. That’s why my brand is so diverse, too. I hope it empowers women of all sizes, ethnicities and scars both internal and external.”

Despite traveling to 37 countries and experiencing life's twists and turns, Sisi found her true love in a St. Louis native, whom she met backpacking in Thailand.

ShopSiham.com

Photo by Schyler Hohenberger

Steve Perrmann Senior Partner

Have You Considered... ?

• When was the last time your investment advisor asked to see your income tax return?

• Are your tax professionals proactive with income tax strategies, or do they just react to the information you provide them every year?

• How should you structure your mortgage in retirement? Should you just pay it off?

• Is your investment portfolio designed for accumulation or utilization?

• Has anyone looked at your options for Social Security benefits or Medicare coverage and helped you decide which decisions you should make in your personal economy?

• What options do you have to help protect your assets from medical issues or long-term care needs?

• Are all of your accounts properly titled and have the right beneficiaries for an efficient transfer of your estate?

• Do you have a plan in place to protect your legacy?

Katy Schierding, Lead Designer

INVESTING ONE’S TIME

ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

ADVICE EDITORIAL: WAYS TO GIVE BACK

The most limited resource people have is time. When thinking about investing or donating, we often consider money or physical assets. But in reality, dedicating time to a cause or foundation in local communities pays off tenfold, too. There are many ways, both one-time and ongoing, to help in neighborhoods and in many cases all they cost is time. The best part is that you can include friends and family members, and maybe even get a workout while at it.

MENTORING

SHELTER HELP

For those who typically walk for exercise, letting a furry friend join you is an easy way to help out. Local dog rescue shelters often allow volunteer walkers to come reprieve the cooped up pets to get some exercise and spend time outdoors, away from their noisy kennels. 01

This silly word may sound like a dance or sport, but it’s a Swedish-coined term for adding trash pickup to fitness jogs or walks. Head to a favorite park on a nice spring day for a workout, but be sure to grab a trash bag. Along the way, spend some extra time beautifying the area by clearing it of waste.

Regardless of professional background or life journey, you have sound advice to offer local youth. Joining a program, such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, speaking at a local school or even offering an ambitious student to job-shadow you for a day are all easy ways to dedicate time to the next generation. Showing them that they matter and that their ambitions are valid can help keep them inspired to pursue their dreams.

PLOGGING BOARD COMMITTEE

If you have a particular interest in an area of government, head to city hall to see if any volunteer-led committees are looking for citizen volunteers. There are often committees or commissions serving on advisory panels in areas such as sustainability, beautification, event planning, zoning, finances and more that look for the collective opinions of neighborhood representatives. These commissions are important, and can make meaningful impacts directly to communities.

Reverse FOOT PAIN

Foot wellness experts at Foot Solutions in Chesterfield craft custom-prescribed orthotics and supply supportive, recommended footwear for all ages of patients, spanning young athletes to active seniors.

"No matter your age or stage of life, proper foot care creates the foundation to optimize your health and well-being," says Foot Solutions local manager Leslee Leonard. "We keep people comfortably on their feet, finding their stride. In fact, the company's 3D-printed orthotics are made in the US, using topof-the-line materials."

She says their board-certified pedorthists are value-added allies to physicians and qualified healthcare professionals, such as podiatrists, orthopedists, physical therapists and rheumatologists. She adds that they handle thousands of referrals from medical colleagues each year.

"As a pelvic floor physical therapist, I found the Foot Solutions team is incredibly knowledgeable, making the process of finding the right footwear and support effortless. I consistently refer my patients to Foot Solutions, and strongly advocate for using Noene insoles in their shoes to significantly reduce pressure

Foot Solutions Team Provides Patients With Relief, Correct Alignment, Custom Orthotics, Improved Balance

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY OF FOOT SOLUTIONS

placed on the pelvis, which helps alleviate pelvic floor symptom, such as stress urinary incontinence and prolapse," assures Aimee Bennett, D.P.T., Empower Physical Therapy and Wellness.

Leslee confirms that Foot Solutions employees receive rigorous training in foot health and biomechanics.

"Our patients each receive a comprehensive foot and gait analysis. Using state-of-the-art technology, we map feet and examine in great detail the areas in which imbalance needs correcting or additional support is required."

Based on that analysis and any physician’s instructions, she says they produce real custom orthotics and match them with healthy footwear to create optimal body alignment while alleviating foot and joint pain.

Foot Solutions customers state that they enjoy the fact that they do not have to choose between style and comfort as they shop the company's healthy footwear from curated global shoe brands.

"I wanted to try out Foot Solutions since I'd heard good things. Right away, when I walked in, I was greeted by a friendly salesperson who did the 3D foot scan with me, watched me walk, and measured my feet. Next, she brought out several pairs of shoes for me to try on," explains customer Lauren B. "She was very patient and determined to help me find a pair that offered the right amounts of stability and roominess for my running. I also picked up a pair of Noene inserts to slip into my shoes since I'd heard they are great at absorbing shock, and running is not always kind to my knees. I've run four times so far in my new shoes and inserts, and they feel terrific."

Another Foot Solutions customer, Dona S., says she loves the shoes she got at Foot Solutions Chesterfield. "They're great without the orthotic and now the custom inserts make them feel so much better."

The Foot Solutions Chesterfield location is at 3 Long Road Crossing Drive, Ste. 6. Leslee says walk-ins (no pun intended!) are always welcome.

314.850.6001

FootSolutions.com/locations/Chesterfield

Feet are complex machines with 100-plus tendons, muscles and ligaments weaving between 26 bones, 33 joints, 7,000 nerve endings and 250,000 sweat glands. Foot Solutions’ experts prevent and eliminate foot pain, as feet represent the very foundation of people’s health.

ARTICLE BY ROBIN SEATON JEFFERSON

Taking Care Of Loved Ones

CaringLegends: Secure Compassionate Care Like Families Would Provide

It has been said that the best investment one can make isn’t in gold. It’s in the people you love. Pat McKay and the CaringLegends staff help people make those deposits every day.

“So many times, people want to take their loved ones to a facility, but the compassionate care they expect is sometimes not there,” says Pat, director of the St. Louis-based, in-home care services and social support agency. “So that’s what we do. We try to provide the care you would give to your loved one. And we give relief to the family so that when they visit, it can be family time, visiting. It won’t be a chore or working. It will be where a daughter can be a daughter and a son can be a son.”

Pat says CaringLegends professionals provide assistance with daily living, everything to help people age gracefully in their own homes. There are no standardized plans. Plans are tailored to individuals, she adds.

CaringLegend’s mission is “To improve the health and social lives of disabled and elderly individuals using a holistic healthcare approach and preventative health measures to enhance healthy lifestyles.”

Pat says CaringLegends employs trusted, experienced caregivers who are bonded and insured, national criminal background checked and fully referenced.

The company’s in-home health services provides nursing care, private duty and personal care, care management, Medicaid programs, consumer direct services and hospital care.

Companion services include live-in companion care, hospital stay/rehabilitation services, homemaker services, respite companion services, vacation or short trips, escort programs, Alzheimer’s and dementia companion care and Parkinson’s disease care.

CaringLegends also honors the special benefits offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for Veterans and surviving spouses, states Pat.

“Your loved one, or you, will never be left without care because a caregiver cannot make it in to work,” Pat says. “The office staff will always work something out where your loved one or you get the care desired. We believe in mission before commission, so during our initial visit, it's not about selling. It's about getting to know you and your specific needs.”

And she says it all makes a difference in people’s lives.

“One thing I’ve learned in people in general and in those who I’ve personally cared for, is that people who have one-on-one care, who are able to remain in their own homes, live happier, longer lives,” Pat says. “These people who have had good one-on-one caregiving, you can tell the difference.”

CaringLegends is located in St. Louis at 6300 Michigan Ave.

314.666.9550 CaringLegends.com

“...people who have one-on-one care live happier, longer lives,” ~Pat McKay.

ARTICLE BY KELLEY LAMM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINA IRIS SCHMIDT

CITY LIFESTYLE’S SOCIAL HOUR WAS AN ELEVATED EXPERIENCE TO COLLABORATE

The Social Hour

Stepping down beneath the surface, where a private passcode was the key to entry, guests were transported into an intimate world of elegance and charm. The Social Hour wasn’t just an event—it was an experience. The air hummed with laughter and conversation, connections unfolded effortlessly, and the ambiance was nothing short of sophisticated.

Chelsey Sweeten, Gordon Montgomery, Kelley Lamm, Chris Schreves

A heartfelt thank you to Chelsey Sweeten, Chris Shreves, and the team at Oak Street Inn & Lounge for providing the perfect setting, and to the servers at the newly opened Speakeasy Lounge for ensuring the evening flowed with grace and style. The indulgences of the night? Chef’s masterfully crafted sushi—flawless . Curated cocktails and libations—decadent. Every sip, every bite—pure perfection. For those who missed it, you missed something truly special. But don’t worry—this is only the beginning. And for those who were there, you already know the magic that unfolded. As publishers, our mission is simple: to create opportunities where business and community connect. This event was a testament to that vision, and we can’t wait to do it again. We look forward to socializing with you in your city in June! Cheers to our advertising partners, contributors, and the businesses that bring our community together. Until next time…

APRIL 2025

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 1ST

Community Educational Series: History Of The World's Fair

Chesterfield City Chambers | 6:30 PM

Join Lindenwood University History students for a panel presentation examining the participation of foreign nations at the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair. Students will share their research on historical context and diplomatic relations that brought countries to the fair, shedding light on ideas of representation, autonomy and cultural exchange at the turn of the 20th century. Register by emailing recreation@chesterfield.mo.us

APRIL 3RD

Senior Health Fair

Chesterfield City Hall | 10:00 AM

At 'Wellness Unplugged,' attendees will have the opportunity to learn about healthy-related issues, participate in health screenings and interact with health care professionals. The fair ends at 11 a.m. Email info@chesterfield.mo.us for further details.

APRIL 6TH

30th STL Jewish Film Festival

B&B Theater, Creve Coeur | 3:00 PM

Wendy Sachs, director of the film October H8te, screens April 6 at 7 p.m. Additionally, Dr. Sarah Hartz will be speaking about the effects of PTSD after the film FIGHTERS on April 6 at 3 p.m. Individual tickets are $15, and more films will be shown through April 8. For schedules, check online STLJewishFilmFestival.org

APRIL 12TH

Egg Stravaganza Hunt

Chesterfield Central Park | 9:30 AM

This fourth annual egg hunt will include thousands of eggs. The Bunny will make an appearance, along with crafts and activities. Bring baskets. Cost: $10 through April 1 and $15 day of. Check-in begins at 9:30 a.m.; first hunt begins at 10:15 a.m. Ages: 12 and younger; ages breakdown: 1-3 years; 4-5 years; 6-8 years; 9-12 years.

APRIL 24TH

Youth And Adult Archery Clinics

Chesterfield Valley Athletic Complex | 5:30 PM

The Archery 1 class is designed to teach youths (ages 10-15) the basics of shooting archery. Each participant will have the opportunity to practice target shooting after being taught how to properly operate a bow. $15 resident/$18 non-resident. A corresponding class for adults will start at 6:30 p.m. for those aged 21 or older, at the same price. Register online.

APRIL 26TH

Earth Day

Chesterfield Central Park | 9:00 AM

Chesterfield, in partnership with RedKey Realty, will host recycling of e-cycling, paper shredding, electronics, small appliances, new/used clothing, linens, blankets, towels, belts, shoes, purses, fabric and yarn. There also will be plants for pollinators, native wildflower seeds, trees and compost giveaways (bring bag or container). Chesterfield Citizens Environmental Advisory Committee members will have a tabletop of information. Call 636.812.9500.

Spring Fashion Show

Our “Must See” event of the season. Join us for plants, fashion, appetizers, drinks and more! Save the Date: Thursday, May

Simple additions of annuals and perennials can beautify your yard.

We have a large selection to choose from.

Our Landscaping Department has begun projects and installations

We provide Landscaping excellence, creative solutions and quality craftsmanship.

GREENS:

GREENS INVEST IN YOUR DANDELION

Dandelion greens are a nutritious and easy addition to any meal, perfect for salads or cooked dishes. They are rich in vitamins A, C, K, chlorophyll, and fiber, making them a great choice for digestion and overall health. Their light flavor and texture enhance salads and sandwiches.

BROCCOLI:

Broccoli is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Known for being high in vitamins A, C, and K, it also contains important minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium. In addition, it’s a rich source of beta-carotene, flavonoids, and fiber. Whether raw or cooked, broccoli is an excellent choice for immune system support, making it one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available.

KALE:

Kale is loaded with essential nutrients such as vitamins C, B6, E, K, and manganese. It contains twice as much selenium as spinach and is an excellent source of calcium. Kale’s unique properties help bind to cholesterol and lower oxalate levels, which promotes calcium absorption and makes it suitable for those prone to kidney stones. Additionally, it provides eye health benefits, thanks to lutein, and its disease-fighting properties make it a great addition to salads, smoothies, and more.

ARTICHOKES:

Artichokes are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, which aids in digestion. They are a great source of plant protein, potassium, and antioxidants like polyphenols. Artichokes also provide essential nutrients, including vitamins C, K, folate, magnesium, and B vitamins.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Boost your health by adding a generous serving of fresh greens to your daily diet. While both cooked and raw vegetables offer health benefits, consuming them raw often provides the most nutrients. Raw greens are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, helping to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of disease.

ASPARAGUS:

Asparagus is versatile and can be enjoyed grilled, sautéed, baked, or even raw. Packed with vitamins C, E, B, K, folate, and copper, it’s a great source of fiber. It also helps lower cholesterol and provides a variety of antioxidants that aid in healing. Asparagus is a perfect side dish that complements both light and robustly flavored meals.