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“Life has twists and turns, but if you are fortunate enough to be on the right path, you end up where you should be.”
These words from Mayor Mark Becker of Des Peres resonate deeply with me as I reflect on the path that brought us here.
In 1985, my now-husband took me to the intersection of Big Bend and Geyer Roads on our first date. That was the first time I saw the Arch (pictured on the cover) at the end of the railroad track path. He followed up my grand introduction to Kirkwood with our next date at the Kirkwood Que Club. (That’s a fun story for another time.)
Fast-forward to February 2020, when the first issue of Kirkwood Lifestyle magazine launched. Five years later, owning this magazine remains one of the most rewarding adventures of my life. I owe a special thanks to my friend Tom Murphy, CEO of Sonus Benefits, whose simple offer of a cup of coffee sparked a conversation that forever changed my path in life. (Also, a story for another time.)
Three months ago, I had the honor of having coffee with four extraordinary leaders: Mayor Liz Gibbons, Mayor Mike Wilcox, Mayor Laura Arnold, and Mayor Mark Becker. We gathered at my favorite coffee spot, Le Macaron in Webster Groves, for a conversation that was as inspiring as it was enlightening. I’m also grateful to Lorilee Cummings for joining us. Lorilee, a Webster Groves native, realtor, and founder of the Women’s Entrepreneurial Group in the Kirkwood-Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce, brought an incredible perspective on building community.
This Love Local issue is a testament to our community’s remarkable people, places, and opportunities. I’m incredibly thankful for our advertising partners who make this magazine possible. And I’m endlessly grateful for everyone who embraces and celebrates the heart of our communities.
Cheers to all the ways we can love local, and to the paths that lead us home.
MOORE, PUBLISHER
PUBLISHER
Renee Moore | renee.moore@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Kate Berry | kate.berry@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lucy Rogers, Katie Mackenzie, Elizabeth Crabtree
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Danny Zofness, Carey Campbell
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
3:5-6
Kirkwood Mayor Liz Gibbons
Webster Groves Mayor Laura Arnold talks
Des Peres Mayor Mark Becker’s passion
Glendale Mayor Mike Wilcox shares his story about
and who, inspires him.
ARTICLE BY LUCY ROGERS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAREY CAMPBELL
With a deep affection for her hometown, Mayor Liz Gibbons embodies the spirit of Kirkwood—a community defined by history and family connections. From skating on frozen ponds as a child to raising her family in the city she loves, Mayor Gibbons is committed to preserving Kirkwood’s charm while championing progress for future generations. In this candid conversation, she reflects on her journey, her inspirations, and her vision for the community she proudly serves.
“KIRKWOOD HAS A LEGACY THAT SHAPED MY LIFE AND CONTINUES TO ATTRACT NEW FAMILIES TO THE AREA.”
KIRKWOOD CITY LIFESTYLE: DESCRIBE GROWING UP IN KIRKWOOD AND WHY YOU GREATLY VALUE THE COMMUNITY.
Mayor Liz Gibbons: My husband, Mike, calls me a transplant to Kirkwood because I moved here when I was ten—so that tells you how deep his roots are. Our granddaughter, Rosie, is the fifth generation of Kirkwoodians on Mike’s family side. Before moving to Kirkwood, I attended Clark School in Webster Groves. Once we moved to Kirkwood, I attended all the local schools—Robinson, Nipher, and Kirkwood High School. After college at the University of Tulsa, I returned to Kirkwood and have been here ever since. I have a deep love for this city. Growing up here, everyone shares a strong connection thanks to having one high school that unites the entire community. Many of my friends’ parents also grew up in Kirkwood, creating a sense of longevity and tradition that’s rare today. It’s a legacy that shaped my life and continues to attract new families to the area. I’m proud to call Kirkwood home, and it means so much to me that my children, Danny and Meredith, chose to raise their families here.
KCL: WHAT DO YOUR GRANDCHILDREN THINK OF THEIR GRANDMA, THE MAYOR?
Mayor Gibbons: I am so fortunate that my kids live just a half-mile from my house. I always see the grandkids. Caroline is six, Beaux is four, and Rosie is five-months old. My granddaughter CONTINUED >
I want to improve the connection between elected officials and citizens.
To that end, I started holding a once-amonth “Grounds for Discussion” coffee hour, during which citizens can bring their questions and concerns directly to the Mayor. I am also available at city hall every Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. These sessions are in addition to phone calls, emails, and people stopping me on the street. I am so thankful to the citizens for passing Prop T so we can make some progress in improving our streets and sidewalks.
Caroline loves telling people I’m the mayor. Once, when they ordered pizza, she reminded her dad, “Tell them it’s for the mayor!”
KCL: WHAT CHILDHOOD MEMORIES STAND OUT TO YOU?
Mayor Gibbons: Winter comes to mind immediately! We all went to the skating rink every Friday and Saturday night in middle school. If you weren’t there, you were missing out. I also grew up in a neighborhood with ponds that froze over in the winter, and we’d spend entire days skating. I feel lucky that we didn’t have the distractions of cell phones back then. Our only rule was to be home by dinner, and every family had a bell, and when you heard your bell ring, you knew to head home immediately. I also loved sledding at Greenbriar Country Club—it was so much fun with all those hills! Growing up, I had a lot of freedom; those were truly magical days.
KCL: WHO INSPIRES OR MOTIVATES YOU?
Mayor Gibbons: I often think of my mom. She was so quiet and unassuming—completely opposite of me. When I was little, I’d drive her crazy by talking to everyone in the grocery store! I admired her quiet, elegant brilliance and always wanted to be like her. But I’m more like my dad. He was outgoing and hard-working and had many friends from his football days at the University of Illinois. His drive and determination inspired me to apply those qualities to my pursuits.
KCL: WHAT DOES YOUR DAY LOOK LIKE WHEN YOU ARE NOT AT CITY HALL?
Mayor Gibbons: My mornings at the YMCA are my sanctuary. I’m an early riser—usually up by 5:30 or 6:00 am— and I try to hit the gym daily. Exercise clears my head and helps me tackle the day. I’ve also served on the YMCA Board, which deepened my connection to the organization.
Outside of fitness, I’m involved with the Frank Lloyd Wright House at Ebsworth Park, located on Ballas Road. I’m part of a ladies’ investment group, and we recently took a trip to Philadelphia, a fun city to explore. I’m also part of the Rowena-Clarke Garden Club, based in Kirkwood, the oldest garden club west of Mississippi. Gardening lets me get my hands dirty and connect with the community differently.
KCL: WHAT ARE SOME CAUSES YOU’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT?
Mayor Gibbons: Trees, streetlights, the Train Station, Amtrak service, and the Grant’s Trail Extension are passion projects for me. A new initiative I’m incredibly excited about is the Signature Tree of the Year. A group of Kirkwood residents who are tree experts, led by Bill Ruppert, came together to determine a signature tree for 2025. This year’s
tree will be the Post Oak. Stay tuned for more details. This effort encourages residents to plant more trees and get us back to deserving the title of “The Greentree City” and will create a greener Kirkwood for future generations.
KCL: YOU’RE KIRKWOOD’S SECOND FEMALE MAYOR. DOES THAT FEEL EMPOWERING?
Mayor Gibbons: Being mayor wasn’t something I ever imagined doing, but my passion for Kirkwood has always been strong. I want to ensure Kirkwood remains a quaint, thriving community for generations. This city has stood for over 150 years, and I want to continue that legacy. I’m focused on maintaining a healthy, vibrant environment where families want to stay, schools remain strong, and our children choose to return and raise their families. That is what makes Kirkwood so special, and I’ll keep working toward it.
“BEING MAYOR WASN’T SOMETHING I EVER IMAGINED DOING, BUT MY PASSION FOR KIRKWOOD HAS ALWAYS BEEN STRONG. I WANT TO ENSURE KIRKWOOD REMAINS A QUAINT, THRIVING COMMUNITY FOR GENERATIONS.”
- MAYOR LIZ GIBBONS
SOMETIMES
ARTICLE BY LUCY ROGERS
As Mayor of Webster Groves, Laura Arnold blends the nostalgic charm of her childhood with a forward-thinking vision for the future. She proves that sometimes, the best way to move forward is to return to where it all began.
Mayor Laura Arnold: My first job was at Smith Sporting Goods in Old Webster. I loved the freedom of being a kid. I would ride my bike to my grandmother’s house and spend most of my time at the swimming pool. In middle school, the outdoor ice rink was the place to be on Friday and Saturday nights. This community, with its strong connections through school, church, and family, was my foundation.
It’s funny because, after high school, I went to college in Chicago and declared to everyone, “I’m never coming back!” Fifteen years later, after living in several places across the country, my husband and I had triplet babies and asked ourselves, “Where do we want to raise our family?” The answer was clear. With my three sisters all living here, too, it’s proof that there’s something special about this place.
After being away, I realized my deep appreciation for the memories I’d built here. Although some things have changed, Webster’s charm lies in its ability to maintain tradition while embracing new opportunities.
Mayor Arnold: The Fourth of July in Webster Groves is unforgettable—I’d argue no town does it better. From the Lions Club carnival to the spectacular fireworks and the quintessential small-town American parade. A newer addition is the pet parade, where people dress up their pets, and I’m all for it.
One of my most vivid memories is playing in a mid-season softball all-star game at Memorial Field on the Fourth of July and turning around to see such a huge crowd cheering for us. That memory has stuck with me.
Another standout experience was attending Douglas Elementary School, a former Black high school in St. Louis County. The district’s approach to education was
forward-thinking, incorporating music into the curriculum and grouping classes like third and fourth grades together. There, I learned that education can be dynamic and creative.
I attended Webster Groves Presbyterian Church, where a choir director staged huge spring musicals. Even though I don’t sing, act, or dance, she managed to make those of us in the back singing the alto parts very softly feel valued just as much as the people in front belting out solos.
Mayor Arnold: Sports played a significant role in my life. Women athletes didn’t have as much visibility back then, but Jackie Joyner-Kersee was one of my most important role models. I even got to guard her during a basketball game when I was a freshman at Northwestern, and she was at UCLA. It was a surreal moment for an 18-year-old super fan! After the game, I told her she inspired me to work hard and believe in myself. At the time, people didn’t always credit women’s athletic success to work ethic—it was chalked up to natural ability—but watching Jackie’s drive changed that narrative for me.
Another source of inspiration was my parents, especially my father, who was a fundraiser for Republican candidates like Kit Bond. Seeing my parents’ commitment to public service taught me the value of supporting causes I believe in. They showed me the importance of getting involved and making a positive impact. I believe that’s something that everyone can agree on, regardless of their political beliefs.
Mayor Arnold: My husband David and I had a long journey to starting a family. We knew that infertility treatments could increase our chances of having multiple babies. We have three kids—Andy, Marion, and Will. When we discovered we were having triplets, I joked with my husband, saying I’d almost gotten him a puppy the week before. Having triplets was a whirlwind, but our support system—our moms and my sisters—was invaluable. We’ve always encouraged our kids to develop their own identities, not just be “The Triplets.” Our school district and community helped foster that independence. All of them are out of college, and none live here. Andy is a sportswriter at Urbana-Champaign, Marion works for a nonprofit in St. Paul, and Will is pursuing a master’s in public policy and data science in Washington, D.C. They are taking their mother’s route and going out into the world for a while. Hopefully, we’ll see them back here.
KCL: HOW DID YOU MEET YOUR HUSBAND?
Mayor Arnold: We were both college interns for Jack Danforth in his U.S. Senate office. After we graduated from college, we married and lived in D.C.
KCL: WHAT DOES A NORMAL DAY LOOK LIKE?
Mayor Arnold: I can’t wrap my head around the word normal because no two-days are alike when you’re the Mayor. I enjoy spending time with
my mom, and I get to do that a lot these days. I’m also an avid reader; historical fiction is my current go-to. Sports are still a love of mine, especially with the increased programming of women’s sports on TV. I’m watching more women’s games now than I’ve seen in the past 25 years.
One thing my husband and I started doing is traveling more. We were just in Vermont for “Leaf Peeping Season,” which was wonderful.
I’d love to attend a Women’s World Cup soccer final. Another dream is to see a Liverpool football match in England. My husband’s a die-hard fan, and I’d love to experience it with him.
Mayor Arnold: Teaching has been a big part of my life, and I miss it. I spent 25 years teaching political science at various universities, including SIU Carbondale, Ohio State, Webster University, and UMSL, where I finished my career in 2020. Through teaching, I helped students think critically and prepare themselves to be heard, even if they were not the traditionally outspoken type. There are a lot of us who have things to say but use fewer words.
I’m passionate about connecting people in ways that make them feel seen and valued, especially
“I’m passionate about connecting people in ways that make them feel seen and valued, especially when bridging differences.”
when bridging differences. Even though I’m relatively introverted, what gets me going is creating spaces where people can connect, feel heard, and bond over shared experiences. As the former chair of Arts and Faith St. Louis, a group that organizes events like interfaith art tours and concerts, I’m passionate about bringing people from different religious backgrounds together through art so we can focus more on what unites us rather than what divides us. I was taught that you can respect someone with an entirely different perspective and acknowledge that you have differences. That doesn’t diminish them as a person, and that doesn’t make you a better person. The notion of peacefully disagreeing with other people is a lost art.
“I was taught that you can respect someone with an entirely different perspective and acknowledge that you have differences. That doesn’t diminish them as a person, and that doesn’t make you a better person.”
Mayor Becker’s passion for the past fuels his vision for the future.
History is woven into every chapter of Mayor Mark Becker’s life and legacy. Mayor Becker’s passion for the past fuels his vision for the future, believing that honoring where you come from is just as vital as charting where you’re headed.
KIRKWOOD CITY LIFESTYLE: WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE MEMORIES OF GROWING UP IN WEBSTER GROVES?
Mayor Mark Becker: I grew up right behind Mary Queen of Peace, the youngest of six kids, with five older sisters. I attended Mary Queen of Peace and spent my childhood running around the streets of Webster, Glendale, and Oakland. Back then, it was a different time. Kids could leave the house early in the morning, spend the whole day outside, and return just before dark. Family dinner was non-negotiable; we would sit down together every night. I used to walk to school and even went home for lunch during seventh and eighth grade. Webster was a wonderful place to grow up.
KCL: WHO INSPIRED YOU?
Mayor Becker: My parents, hands down. They sacrificed a lot for their kids. My three oldest sisters went to Webster High School, the next two went to St. Joseph’s Academy, and I went to SLUH. Education was everything to my parents. We did not take lavish vacations or belong to the country club
ARTICLE BY LUCY ROGERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAREY CAMPBELL
because they prioritized providing us with excellent educational opportunities. I am forever grateful for that. My mom passed away about four years ago, and my dad died on April 10, 2006-the opening day of the new Cardinals stadium. I like to think they would be proud of how we have all turned out. We are still a closeknit family.
KCL: WHAT SPARKED YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT?
Mayor Becker: In elementary school, I co-owned the paper stand at Berry and Lockwood and sold Sunday papers at Mary Queen of Peace. With the money I made, my friends and I would hop on a Bi-State bus to Kirkwood or Old Orchard to treat ourselves to McDonald’s or Ben Franklin. Our paper stands sold the daily Post-Dispatch. Back then, the Post came out in the afternoon, and we would get the “two-star” paper. Some people wanted the “three-star” paper for the closing stock prices, which we received
about 3:30 p.m. We would grab a few and sell them at Westborough Country Club. For our efforts, the Westborough manager would give us a free soda and some pretzels or peanuts—a win-win for a kid.
KCL: HOW DID YOU END UP IN DES PERES?
Mayor Becker: After Mary Queen of Peace (1979), I attended St. Louis University High School (SLUH-1983) and then Mizzou for a business degree (1987) and a JD law degree (1990). Like many St. Louisans, I moved back after school. My wife Susan and our four children have lived in Des Peres since 2000.
KCL: WHAT RESONATES WITH YOU WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT THIS COMMUNITY?
Mayor Becker: Des Peres is a place where everybody knows everybody and everybody’s parents. It is a true community, and I am proud to be part of it. We are constantly working to deliver better services and be good stewards of city resources. We are fortunate to benefit from the West County Mall, but there is always room for improvement. Our Public Safety Department does an outstanding job, and we have a strong collaborative relationship with Kirkwood.
KCL: WHEN YOU’RE NOT AT CITY HALL, WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?
Mayor Becker: I’ve been an attorney for 34 years. I worked for over 30 years for The Hullverson Law Firm, which was founded in 1922. I now co-own The Hullverson Law Firm. In 2022, after 100 years downtown, The Hullverson Law Firm departed and joined forces with the Onder Law Firm in Webster. I have worked on Plaintiff personal injury cases for my entire legal career. I like to work. I like being in a position to help people.
When I am not working, I am an avid fan of Mizzou football. Mizzou has been part of my life since I was young. Four
of my five sisters attended Mizzou at some point, and now two of my kids have gone there. I attend almost every home game and recently attended my last Dad’s weekend with my daughter, who is a senior. It was bittersweet. I also traveled to see Mizzou play UMas this year while visiting my oldest son, who is in law school in Boston, and I am still close with my fraternity brothers from Beta Theta Pi. We are a Mizzou family through and through.
KCL: WHAT’S BEEN YOUR FAVORITE CONCERT?
Mayor Becker: My daughter Grace and I have a tradition of attending one concert together every year. Two years ago, we saw Chris Stapleton at Wrigley Field, and last year, we saw Tyler Childers and Stapleton again at Riverport.
KCL: WHAT ARE YOU MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT?
Mayor Becker: I am a history buff. I love military history, even though I have never served in the military. I am fascinated by the sacrifices that have been made. Learning about history helps me appreciate where we have been and how it has shaped us as a country. I am also interested in the history of Des Peres. I wholeheartedly support the efforts of some Des Peres residents to create a Des Peres Historical Society. They have documents going back to when the Spanish controlled Des Peres and when the United States completed the Louisiana Purchase from the French in 1803. If these documents are not saved now, they will never be saved. We hope to preserve these records in the Baker House, a city-owned unused building behind City Hall. It is a way to ensure the story of Des Peres is remembered.
KCL: WHAT’S A PERSONAL GOAL YOU’RE WORKING TOWARD?
Mayor Becker: I want to retrace the path of my grandfather, Marcellus Heinrich Becker, who fought in World War I with the United States Allied Expeditionary Force. He was one of 12 kids from O’Fallon, Illinois, and joined the US Army at 18. My goal is to travel to the battlegrounds where I know he fought, such as St. Mihiel and the Meuse-Argonne, and stand where he once stood. I have been thinking about this for a long time, and it is definitely on my bucket list.
KCL: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PIECE OF ADVICE?
Mayor Becker: Do not be afraid to fail. Everyone stumbles at some point, but how you respond matters. Keep going, do
not compare yourself to others, and do not be too hard on yourself. Everyone’s path is different. Compassion is crucial, too. You never know what is on somebody’s plate. Most people are just doing their best. If you can be constructive, be constructive.
KCL: WHEN YOU WERE AT MARY QUEEN OF PEACE, DID YOU EVER IMAGINE YOUR LIFE TURNING OUT THIS WAY?
Mayor Becker: I always thought I would do something similar to what I do now. Some relatives have been lawyers, which helped me on my path. I have always had a little political spark in me, too. Life has twists and turns, but if you are fortunate enough to be on the right path, you end up where you should be.
As a local resident and your trusted real estate professional, I truly live, work, and play in our wonderful neighborhood. From charming homes and unique boutiques to delicious restaurants and scenic parks, our community has so much to offer!
If you or someone you know is looking for a home to LOVE, I’m here to help. With my expertise, I’ll guide you through every step of the process. Together, we can create a customized plan to find the perfect home for you and your family.
Glendale Mayor Mike Wilcox shares his story about what, and who, inspires him.
Hailing from the storybook Chicago suburb of Glen Ellyn, Illinois, Mayor Mike Wilcox’s path has been shaped by his father’s influence and a pivotal realization about living life without delay.
KIRKWOOD CITY LIFESTYLE: WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO GLENDALE?
Mayor Mike Wilcox: Growing up in Glen Ellyn, Illinois—a charming suburb west of Chicago— was strikingly similar to Kirkwood and Webster Groves with a quaint downtown, many parks, and older homes. Our town provided a feeling of safety and security. Yet, a quick train or car ride would land you in the heart of Chicago, where you would find world-class shopping and dining, many sports teams, incredible museums, and a beautiful lakefront. I didn’t realize how special it was until I left. I decided to attend Mizzou for college, even though I’d never set foot in St. Louis or Kansas City. I met my wife, Libby, during
my sophomore year. She’s from Webster Groves. After college, we moved around a bit, living in Kansas City and Nashville, but in 1996, Libby suggested we move to St. Louis to raise our family in the kind of community we’d both grown up in. We’ve lived in Glendale for the last 20 years. It’s been a wonderful place to raise our family.
KCL: DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE CHILDHOOD MEMORY?
Mayor Wilcox: My friends and I were living every kid’s dream. Summers were for riding bikes, playing pickup sports, and hanging out at the public pool. But the real thrill was when my friends and I would hop on trains to explore Chicago. No cell phones. No GPS. It seems crazy today, but we were 16 or 17 years old, and our parents had no idea where we were. We’d explore Oak Street Beach, check out the museums, watch shows at the theater, and hit up baseball games at Wrigley Field.
ARTICLE BY LUCY ROGERS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
We’d always ensure someone kept track so we didn’t miss the last train home. During Summer, we were in the city almost every day.
KCL: WHO INSPIRED YOU GROWING UP?
Mayor Wilcox: My father, without a doubt, inspired me. He was the vice president of international sales for Amoco Oil, working in the iconic Standard Oil Building in downtown Chicago. He spoke five languages and traveled to more than 100 countries, so he was gone a lot. He’d always talk about retirement as the “beginning” of his life. He dreamed of moving to Florida, playing golf, and buying a boat. Sadly, that dream was never realized. He was diagnosed with a brain tumor and passed away before he could retire. Watching that happen reshaped my life’s philosophy. I’ve learned you can’t wait for “someday” to chase your dreams. I realized that life is short and that you should do what you want to do, follow your heart, and do what you love as soon as possible.
KCL: TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY LIFE.
Mayor Wilcox: Libby and I have been together for 35 years and married for 30. Our path to parenthood wasn’t easy. After struggling with infertility and multiple rounds of IVF, we were blessed with our son, Justin, who is 24 and living with his fiancée
in Ballwin. But we still had the dream of a bigger family. That’s when we decided to adopt.
Because my mother is from Lima, Peru, I’ve always felt connected to Hispanic culture. We decided to adopt from Guatemala. We were able to meet our daughter, Maya, when she was just three months old, and leaving her with her foster mom was heartbreaking. But as soon as the paperwork cleared, we flew back to Guatemala, and 24 hours later, she was home. We were thrilled to finally bring our daughter home to complete our family. She’s now 18 and a senior at Kirkwood High School. Our parenting journey has had its highs and lows, but we’re grateful every day for our family of four.
KCL:
Mayor Wilcox: I own St. Louis Caster & Equipment, a material handling distributor that serves other businesses. I’m also an adjunct professor at Webster University’s MBA program. I’ve also taught entrepreneurship, but these days, I’m focused on the marketing side.
On a personal level, I’m a book collector. My wife would say I’m more of a ‘book buyer’ than a ‘book reader’ because I’d buy business books and leave them on the shelf. However, I’ve recently committed to reading for 30 minutes every morning, and it’s been incredibly rewarding.
KCL: WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU’RE GENUINELY PASSIONATE ABOUT?
Mayor Wilcox: The idea of finding and pursuing what you love aligns with people’s search for their life’s purpose. I’ve explored my own passions to figure out my life’s purpose. One thing that’s become clear is my passion for helping people wanting to transition from employee to business ownership. When I was a brand manager at Purina, I knew I wanted to leave, but there was no playbook for how to do it. I eventually figured it out, started my own business, and sold it. Since then, I have purchased two other businesses. I’m committed to sharing that knowledge with others. Through LinkedIn, I’ve connected with people who feel stuck in their jobs. Helping them has become my passion project — it’s a way to give back while fulfilling my love of teaching. I love helping people figure out how to do what they love, do something they are good at, and do something that is needed.
KCL: FUN QUESTION — WHAT’S YOUR GO-TO MUSIC?
Mayor Wilcox: No question about it - 80’s alternative. My Sirius XM channel is First Wave or 80’s on 8. Glendale is known for its Jazz Festival in the Fall, which is great. But this year, I’m combining my love for 80’s music with a new community event. I’m leading the effort for an adults-only street party on 6/13/25 called the Glendale Summer Bash. We have a great 80s cover band booked - The John Hughes Experience. It will be an unforgettable night of music and something new for Glendale.
If you would like to connect with Mike, please do so on LinkedIn at www.linkedin. com/in/mikewilcox1/.
Nora Ephron, celebrated for her wit and incisive storytelling, joined forces with her sister Delia Ephron to craft Love, Loss, and What I Wore, a poignant theatrical piece that weaves humor, heartache, and nostalgia into a tapestry of shared experiences. This monologue-driven play takes the audience on a journey through the lives of women, exploring how clothing and memories intertwine.
The Kirkwood Performing Arts Center (KPAC) proudly presents this heartfelt production on February 15, 2025. This special performance invites audiences to experience its powerful blend of humor and emotion live on stage, highlighting KPAC’s commitment to celebrating community-driven, transformative theater. Premiering off-Broadway in 2009, Love, Loss, and What I Wore quickly captivated audiences with its relatable anecdotes and universal themes. The play eschews a traditional plot, instead presenting a series of vignettes narrated by a cast of women who reflect on the significant outfits they wore during pivotal moments of their lives. From prom dresses and wedding gowns to the cherished “closet classics” we never quite let go, these sartorial memories reveal the deeper emotions and relationships that shaped their stories.
What sets Love, Loss, and What I Wore apart is its ability to make the personal profoundly universal. Each vignette is filled with Ephron’s trademark humor and pathos, seamlessly blending moments of laughter with the bittersweet truths of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. The simplicity of its structure—performed with actors seated on stage, reading from scripts—allows the rawness of the words to take center stage, creating an intimate connection with the audience.
The play delves into themes of identity and self-expression, showing how clothes become both armor and adornment. They hold memories of triumphs and traumas, celebrations and losses, and reflect the evolution of each woman’s journey.
Mark your calendars for February 15, 2025, and join us at KPAC to experience Love, Loss, and What I Wore. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate the resilience, humor, and shared experiences of women everywhere. This production is more than a play; it’s a heartfelt love letter to the lives we live and the stories we carry.
Tickets are available now at www. MetroTix.com
• Ripe Pear
• Prosciutto
• Burrata
• Lemon Zest
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Dried Figs
• Red Pepper Flakes
1. Slice the ripe pear into thin slices.
2. Arrange pear slices on a plate, creating a base for the salad.
3. Nestle slices of prosciutto in-between pear slices, a perfect combo of sweet and savory.
4. Tear the burrata into bite-sized pieces and scatter them over the salad adding a velvety creaminess to the ensemble.
5. Grate fresh lemon zest over the entire salad, infusing it with citrus flavor.
6. Top with fresh basil, figs and pepper flakes.
7. Finish by generously drizzling extra virgin olive oil over the salad, creating a silky texture that ties it all together.
MINDFUL INDULGENCE: TREAT YOURSELF TO GUILT-FREE DELIGHTS
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE MACKENZIE
As a nutritionist who champions healthy, mindful eating, I have two local favorite shops that I love. They combine indulgence with a healthy twist—all the pleasure with none of the guilt.
Le Macaron | This charming shop in Old Webster Groves is a haven for French macaron lovers. Its delicate creations are the epitome of mindful indulgence. At just 80 calories each, these gluten-free delights are made with premium ingredients and zero preservatives. My top picks? The Ginger Chocolate, with its spicy-sweet kick, and the Sicilian Pistachio, which offers a creamy, nutty richness and subtle health benefits, make these macarons a win-win.
Bijoux Chocolates | Located In Webster Groves on Big Bend Road, Bijoux elevates chocolate to an art form. Dark chocolate is renowned for its heart-healthy benefits. Bijoux’s unique creations—like Fig Goat Cheese and Blood Orange—are a symphony of bold, sophisticated flavors. Each bite is deeply satisfying, both in taste and in the knowledge that I’m making a mindful choice.
Mindful indulgences like these are more than treats; they’re an opportunity to pause, savor, and enjoy. Life is too short for compromises, especially when it comes to food.
Katie Mackenzie
I believe indulgences are not just allowed—they’re essential. Constantly denying yourself the foods you crave often backfires and intensifies cravings. The secret? Splurge smartly. Choose treats that delight your taste buds and align with your well-being. Sweet treats aren’t just for Valentine’s Day. By being mindful, you can satisfy your sweet tooth all year long. Follow me on Instagram @ktelizabethwellness for more.
