
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.
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, Kelley Lamm, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Don Riddle, Christine Schmidt, Barbi Macon, Janie Jones
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
Helium Comedy Club-St. Louis Celebrates 10th Anniversary In
International Best-Selling Author Jennifer Bardot: “When Someone Lives Their Passion, Sparks
STL County was named one of America’s Best Midsize Employers for 2025 by Forbes, a recognition highlighting the County’s commitment to fostering a supportive, innovative workplace for local employees. Forbes’ annual list is compiled based on an independent survey of employees across various US industries, measuring workplace satisfaction, employee benefits and overall workplace culture. County officials implemented new initiatives to enhance professional development opportunities, improve work-life balance and expand employee benefits, including paid parental leave.
NJT representatives open the 27th season with a bold, immersive production of the classic musical Cabaret, running March 20 through April 6. Directed by NJT’s Artistic Director Rebekah Scallet, Cabaret transports audiences to 1929 Berlin. On April 5, NJT will host a discussion with Helen Turner, director of education for St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum. She will provide historical context regarding the social climate that set the stage for the events depicted in Cabaret
Spirit of Saint Louis Squash Foundation reps will recognize the 2025 winners of the National High School Squash Awards awarded in conjunction with US Squash at the Annual Gala Weekend in St. Louis during April 25-26. Each year, the top male and female high school players in the nation, the Eastern, Midwest and Western regions, and the St. Louis area are honored. Contact Kenneth Mallin, Foundation vice chair, at 314.580.2473, or visit STLSquashFoundation.com.
The four-star rating of the RitzCarlton in Clayton was renewed, making it once again the only fourstar property in Missouri, with recognition from the 2025 Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards. For 22 years in a row, the hotel was awarded a four-star for outstanding hospitality and dedicated service. Forbes Travel Guide is the only global rating system for luxury hotels, spas and ocean cruises. This luxury hotel combines global sophistication and Midwestern spirit, with 299 rooms and signature suites.
Photography by Don Riddle
to $165. The nonprofit was founded in 2009 by Amy and Bill Koman, both two-time lymphoma survivors. This year's Pedal The Cause is slated for Sept. 20-21 at the Family Arena in St. Charles. Participants ride, spin, volunteer, serve as “Inspired” virtual participant or become a Kids Challenge rider.
By: Dr. Beth Templin
Have you been told by your physician that your arthritis is due to years of "wear and tear"? Are you worried it’s not safe to exercise because it may make your arthritis pain worse? Do you think the only way to manage your arthritis is by taking pain pills and getting painful injections? Are you trying to delay joint replacement surgery as long as possible? If yes, y ou're not alone. Arthritis is one of the most common causes of pain and debility in older adults. Unfortunately, it is very common for people to feel hopeless and helpless when it comes to arthritis. Often, it stems from a belief that your arthritis pain will only get worse over time. Luckily, those beliefs tend to come from information that is outdated and incorrect! Most people realize their arthritis won 't magically go away on its own, but they still don't take action. It might be because they don't know what steps to take to improve their arthritis pain OR they don't truly believe they can improve arthritis "at their age". Fortunately, there are several options to help manage your arthritis pain and to keep you active as you age.
I've put together a FREE guide explaining that even though you're living with a rthritis, it does not mean that you should expect to lose your independence or live with pain for the rest of your life.
Inside this guide you'll find: T he top 6 myths of arthritis! Why we lose cartilage and what you can do to prevent it.
Tips on how to reduce your arthritis pain. The positive impact of exercise. AND much more!
I want to make this guide available to you absolutely free of charge! To claim your copy, simply call (314) 9391377 or visit our website housefitstl.com/arthritispain to download the report. If you’re ready to manage your arthritis pain and lead an active lifestyle, this guide can help you get started with confidence!
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.
InVita Health and Wellness offers individualized care in St. Louis and its surrounding areas to improve and support your health. We are a multi-specialty functional medicine and wellness medical spa that helps our clients with individualized care plans to boost their body image and overall health. We specialize in alternative medicine modalities that focus on holistic healing and natural wellness Our services are designed to address a wide range of health concerns and promote overall vitality
Laughter heals all wounds: Helium Comedy Club-St. Louis is a contemporary entertainment venue that brings stadium-sized, live talent to an intimate theater on a weekly basis, and has been doing so for a full decade.
Owner Marc Grossman debuted his brand of entertainment in Philadelphia during 2005. His investment in comedy seems to have paid off. Since then, the former stock trader opened additional locations in Portland, Buffalo and Raleigh. St. Louis was his fifth comedy venture, located within Galleria Mall. During 2024, Helium owners opened their sixth location Alpharetta, Georgia.
Marc had explained publicly that the plan all along has been to offer top-tier clubs to showcase diverse, renowned comedians with support from local talent.
People who go to Helium voice that they appreciate it's a place that guests can go every week and experience something different.
Popular comedians, such as Kirkwood High School graduate Nikki Glaser, Gary Owen, George Wallace and St. Louisan Lavell Crawford have performed on this STL stage. "Saturday Night Live" legend and St. Louis native Kevin Nealon took the stage during 2024.
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
St. Louis area comedian Amber Klear says her favorite memory of performing at the Helium is the acceptance of new comics. "Some of the other best things happen in the green room, behind the scenes. But what happens in the green room stays in the green room!"
Not only is the Helium audience and staff accepting, Amber explains, "the other comedians are cheering for you as well."
Hands down, she assures Helium is the best environment for a new comic to perform. "They learn the ropes, they learn the lingo, but they're also supported and encouraged beyond belief. It can be daunting for some people to get on stage, so that support is crucial. And even if you have a bad set, the other comedians will give you tips, tricks and hugs. It's a family group."
Hip-hopper turned comedian Tip “T.I.” Harris shared his standup show at Helium during this past January.
T.I. is a Grammy Award-winning rapper known for hits such as “Live Your Life” with Rihanna and “Whatever You Like." He's been on a nationwide tour over the past year and a half.
T.I. joined comedy crew, the Haha Mafia, featuring Navv Greene, Tyler Chronicles and the man who started it all, K-Dubb.
The food and drinks at Helium within the restaurant, the lounge or the showroom present a nice way to mix it up, too.
Within Marc's 11,000-square-feet floor plan, he added a standalone dining room, as well as a VIP space referenced as "the Garage." The restaurant is called Elements Sustenance & Spirits. The 50-seat public dining area features a Prohibition-era theme beside a full bar, while the VIP area offers an additional lounge. The theatre has space for up to 280 guests, and offers the food menu in its entirety except for entrees.
The Helium team hosts an annual "St. Louis' Funniest Person" competition, which typically pits 150 aspiring comics against each other for the title and bragging rights.
Amateur comics can participate in Open Mic Night on Wednesdays.
Comedians scheduled to perform at Helium St. Louis this month include: Derrick Stroup, April 3; Michael Colyar, April 4-6; Nick Swardson; April 6; Ben Brainard, April 9; Ellen Skrmetti, April 10; Steve Hofstetter, April 22; and Gabriel Rutledge, April 27.
314.727.1260
St-Louis.HeliumComedy.com
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Grandparent
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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
“When reflecting on my service as mayor of Clayton for the past six years, I'm especially grateful for this wonderfully supportive community, the effective leadership of our aldermen and the dedication of our amazing staff," says Michelle Harris, regarding achievements and community initiatives since taking up the city's gavel in 2019.
Michelle was elected mayor, after serving as an alderwoman and on a number of city commissions for 11 years. She also served as president of the Municipal League of Metro St. Louis, and currently chairs the Metro Mayors and the Metropolitan Zoo-Museum District Board. She has contributed to several key nonprofit boards, and was a founding board member of both the Shakespeare Festival of St. Louis and the Clayton Community Foundation. She's also an honorary docent at the St. Louis Art Museum. CONTINUED
The first 20 years of Michelle's career were spent at Nestle and DuPont companies, and as a business consultant. She earned an MBA from University of Missouri.
As a resident of Claverach Park for 35 years, Michelle and her husband, Scott, have two grown children who both graduated from Clayton High School.
"I believe my legacy is working with others to make Clayton and the region an even better place," she shares. "I strived to give Clayton a strong voice in regional affairs, by bringing together the
mayors of St. Louis County for the Mayors for Meals food drive during COVID-19, by participating in the regional Crime Reduction Plan, and being a catalyst for addressing homelessness."
During this mayor's leadership, Clayton’s downtown grew more vibrant, with new office buildings and residential spaces, along with adding approximately 1,000 new residents. Specifically, Michelle helped to guide more than $550 million of investment into Clayton, as evidenced by global businesses, such as Emerson and Energizer, having made Clayton their
“Being a mayor has been an incredibly enriching experience, mostly because of the many accomplished and interesting people I’ve come to know.
I’m full of gratitude.”
new headquarters. Additionally, the city's staff continues to provide outstanding daily basic services.
To enliven and diversify Clayton’s downtown environment, there are now two new hotels, one with a rooftop restaurant, and new entertainment venues. Michelle says she's especially proud of new events she initiated, such as the annual Jazz Festival and the Dia de los Muertos Family Festival. Another welcomed initiative is celebrating the city’s history through recognition of forgotten communities, such as the former Black Neighborhood, the Philippine Village and the Osage Nation.
“I believe the key to success is developing strong partnerships; with residents, neighbors, cultural organizations, institutions and developers,” adds Mayor Michelle. “I hope the next mayor will build on this foundation to benefit Clayton as well as the broader community.”
ARTICLE BY ROBIN SEATON JEFFERSON
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 MEL BOBAN
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.
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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.
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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.
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ARTICLE BY KELLEY LAMM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINA IRIS SCHMIDT
CITY LIFESTYLE’S SOCIAL HOUR WAS AN ELEVATED EXPERIENCE TO COLLABORATE
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.
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…
As the chill of winter fades and the warmth of spring begins to emerge, Alex Waldbart Florist enters one of its busiest and most beautiful times of the year. It’s a season filled with color, fragrance, and meaning, where nature comes alive, and every bouquet tells a story.
Spring is a time for fresh starts, and there’s nothing like fresh flower to make that fresh start feel special.
The month of April brings us: Passover April 12th | Easter April 20th
Professional Administrative Week April 21-25 Earth Day April 22
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.
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 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.
Brussels sprouts are a highly nutritious cruciferous vegetable, known for their vitamin C, K, and folate content, as well as carotenoids and fiber. These vegetables can be shaved, sliced, sautéed, boiled, or grilled, offering a range of flavors from mild to bitter, depending on preparation.
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 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.
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.
Spinach is a popular green known for its mild flavor and impressive nutritional profile. Rich in vitamins A, C, K, as well as magnesium, potassium, and iron, spinach is great for overall health. It also provides antioxidants that support eye health and includes calcium for stronger bones. However, because spinach has a higher oxalate content, it should be consumed in moderation by those with a history of kidney stones.
APRIL 1ST-30TH
Saint Louis Art Museum | 10:00 AM
Made literally from land, Pueblo pottery is one of America’s most-enduring art forms. This exhibition features 100-plus clay works with a range of forms, surface treatments and materials. Dating from precontact to the present day, vessels and sculptures represent communities spanning from New Mexico’s Río Grande Pueblos to Ysleta del Sur in West Texas to the Hopi tribe of Arizona.
APRIL 1ST-30TH
St. Louis Zoo | 6:30 PM
The Chinese lantern festival returns with dozens of new, towering lanterns and light displays, celebrating culture, art and beauty. This year, light displays include a 100-foot-long tunnel of traditional Chinese lanterns, an interactive beehive topped with giant hummingbirds and the 12 Chinese zodiac signs, which guests can enjoy along with nightly cultural performances and specialty food and drinks.
APRIL 6TH
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.
Cooking is all about people. Food is maybe the only universal thing that has the power to bring everyone together. No matter what culture, everywhere around the world, people get together to eat.” -Guy Fieri
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APRIL 6TH
Stifel Theatre | 2:00 PM
This concert brings the legendary tale of the Caped Crusader to life with a stunning symphonic performance. Celebrate Tim Burton’s iconic take on Batman, featuring Michael Keaton, Jack Nicholson and Kim Basinger, and Danny Elfman’s exhilarating score. Guests are encouraged to dress up as their favorite DC Super Hero. Note Batman has PG-13 rating and runs for approximately 2 hours.
APRIL 24TH
The Ritz-Carlton | 6:00 PM
Archbishop Mitchell Rozanski hosts 16th Annual Archbishop’s Gala, in support of Today and Tomorrow Educational Foundation scholarship programs. The evening begins at 6 p.m. with cocktails, followed by invocation, dinner and program at 7 p.m. Debbie Monterrey, host of Total Information AM-KMOX, emcees. Guests will learn about the impact that need-based scholarships have on youth in the St. Louis region.
APRIL 26TH-27TH
Muny Grounds In Forest Park | 11:00 AM
The Earth Day Festival is a community tradition to learn about sustainable products and services offered by local businesses and organizations. It ends at 5 p.m. both days. Attendees can meet local area nonprofits that share Earth Day values. Local entertainment and local Green Dining Alliance restaurants will be available. For questions, phone 314.282.7533 or email info@earthday-365.org.