St. Louis Home and Happenings Magazine

Fe b r u ar y 2 0 1 3

Simple Home Fix-ups p. 6

Dealing with the Flu p.8

Valentine’s Day at Kitchen Conservatory This special publication brought to you by Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate

www.STLHandHMag.com

EDITOR IN CHIEF Wade Brewer

DESIGN Josh West

FEATURES EDITOR Andrew Brewer

A note from the editor...

At Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate, we do things a little bit differently.

We created this magazine as a way to keep in touch with our clients and let them know interesting things about homes, entertaining and decorating ideas, and fun activities they can do in and around St. Louis.

Saint Louis Home and Happenings Magazine is a publication dedicated to the people of the St. Louis area and what makes us unique. Each month, we provide articles and anecdotes that tell the story of St. Louis and the people that live here.

WEBSITE & FEEDBACK www.STLHandHMag.com Editor@STLHandHMag.com

We have enjoyed preparing this first issue. Researching an area tradition like fish fries can hardly be called hard work, and discussing couple cooking classes with the folks at Kitchen Conservatory was a fun experience. We hope that you enjoy this first edition and look forward to receiving the March issue in your inbox.

If you were forwarded a copy of the magazine from a friend and would like to be added to our mailing list or have an idea for a story or event, you can reach me at Editor@STLHandHMag.com.

Again, we have enjoyed the process of producing this first issue for you, and can’t wait for you to read it.

Wade Brewer Editor-in-chief Self published by Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate. All material herein is copyrighted and all rights are reserved.

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CONTENTS 4

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

6

Simple Home Fix-ups

8

Dealing with the Flu

12

Set the Mood for Your Valentine

14

Score Big! Game-day Entertaining

15

Game-day Viewing Tips

16

It’s Fry-Day Night! St. Louis Fish Fries

Valentine’s Day in the Kitchen

17

Surviving Mardi Gras

Cooking Up Some Love at Kitchen Conservatory

18

St. Louis Happenings

10

H&H Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com 3

SPRING HOME MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

PHOTO BY ROBERT S. DONOVAN

HOME

Get A Headstart on Your Spring To-Do List With the chill of winter almost over, this is a great time to take a look at your home to check for any maintenance issues that may have popped up during the previous months while you were unable to thoroughly walk the exterior of your home. The following is a list from the folks at HGTV that will help you to start your spring maintenance checklist: Check for loose or leaky gutters.

Improper drainage can lead to water in the basement. Make sure downspouts drain away from the foundation and are clear and free of debris.

Low areas in the yard or next to the foundation should be filled with compacted soil. Spring rains can cause yard flooding, which can lead to foundation flooding and damage. Also, when water pools in these low areas in summer, it creates a breeding ground for insects.

Use a screwdriver to probe the wood trim around windows, doors, railings and decks.

Make repairs now before the spring rains do more damage to the exposed wood.

From the ground, examine roof shingles to see if any were lost or damaged during winter. If your home has an older roof covering, you may want to start a budget for replacement. The summer sun can really damage roof shingles. Shingles that are cracked, buckled or loose or are missing granules need to be replaced. Flashing around

plumbing vents, skylights and chimneys need to be checked and repaired by a qualified roofer.

Examine the exterior of the chimney for signs of damage. Have the flue cleaned and inspected by a certified chimney sweep.

Inspect concrete slabs for signs of cracks or movement. All exterior slabs except pool decks should drain away from the home’s foundation.

Fill cracks with a concrete crack filler or silicone caulk. When weather permits, power-wash and then seal the concrete.

Remove firewood stored near the home.

Firewood should be stored at least 18 inches off the ground at least 2 feet from the structure.

Check outside hose faucets for freeze damage.

Turn the water on and place your thumb or finger over the opening. If you can stop the flow of water, it is likely the pipe inside the home is damaged and will need to be replaced. While you’re at it, check the garden hose for dry rot.

Have a qualified heating and cooling contractor clean and service the outside unit of the air conditioning system. Clean coils operate more efficiently, and an annual service call will keep the system working at peak performance levels.

Change interior filters on a regular basis.

Check your gas and battery-powered lawn equipment to make sure it is ready for summer use. Clean equipment and sharp cutting blades will make yard work much easier.

Starting your spring maintenance now will leave you more time to spend the warm days ahead enjoying your home rather than repairing it.

H&H Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com 5

SIMPLE HOME FIX-UPS Complete these simple projects in a weekend or less!

The new Delaney with MotionSense from Moen makes it easy to accomplish a variety of routine tasks with speed and efficiency.

While you may not know the term “nowism,” you more than likely live it. With our fast-paced lives, this term, coined by www.trendwatching.com, a leading trendscouting website, describes the trend of the consumer’s need for instant gratification. We want fast service, fast answers and fast results.

And, of course, this need for fast fixes extends into our homes. Luckily, no matter how pressed you are for time, you can spruce up your house by focusing on simple projects that can be completed quickly ... in a day or a weekend. Don’t delay - check these easy and affordable projects off your to-do list today and soon your home will be perfectly prepared and instantly updated.

Fancy Fixtures As the workhorse of the kitchen, we have dozens of daily interactions at the sink. So, give your kitchen a 6 H&H Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com

functionality facelift by upgrading your faucet. The innovative Moen Delaney or Haysfield kitchen faucets with MotionSense are an ideal choice to bring your kitchen into the digital decade. MotionSense allows you to accomplish a variety of routine tasks with speed and efficiency, offering you three ways to operate the faucet. In addition to the traditional handle, you can activate it by using the Wave Sensor - by waving your hand over the faucet to turn on and off - or the Ready Sensor - by placing your hands or an object under the spout. In addition, the eye-catching designs of the faucets, both featured in a Spot ResistStainless finish which resists water spots and fingerprints, create an immediate aesthetic update.

Next, tie the finish of your new faucet throughout your room by updating the hinges, knobs and pulls on your cabinets for an uncomplicated and inexpensive way to add new dimension to your kitchen space.

HOME

Restore Beauty in the Bath In a recent Gallup Poll, 80 percent of workers said they feel stress on the job, making it important to make your home - and specifically your bathroom - a relaxing retreat. Swap your old, boring showerhead with the new Moen Halo rainshower to create a serene sanctuary within minutes. Available at The Home Depot (approximately $59), Halo features an innovative, pivoting double-ring design which provides 60% more coverage than traditional 9-inch rainshowers.

Three spray settings - full rainshower, deep massage and relaxing massage - create a spa-like experience, and with an easy two-step installation, you can upgrade your bathroom in no time.

Another fast fix for the bathroom is to simply get organized ... and stay that way.- Keep your hand towels tidy by installing a Retractable Towel Ring. The thoughtfully designed accessory offers the traditional benefit of a towel ring, with a retractable cord that extends from the base to allow the towel to be used - yet stay neatly in place. Simply pull the towel toward you, dry hands and release. The unique accessory is the ideal solution for your bath, or even kitchen or laundry room, to keep your towels remaining securely on the towel ring.

Within minutes you’ll have a clean, up-to-date space you’ll want to show off.

Refurbish the Living Room As one of the gathering areas for your family or guests, the living room can get dirty quickly - especially the carpet. Footprints, pet odors or food and beverage spills could be detracting from the enjoyment of the room, so take a few hours to take back your carpet.

Many grocers rent steam cleaners for as little as $25 per day, making them an ideal solution to bring new life to your living space.

Living room lighting can also have a big impact on your room’s decor and ambiance. Brighten your atmosphere - and your mood - by replacing your current incandescent light bulbs with high-efficiency LED lamps. These energy-efficient bulbs will have your home shining brightly all season long, while also saving on your electric bills.

Swap your old, boring showerhead with the new Moen Halo rainshower to create a serene sanctuary within minutes.

Clean Ceiling Fans The most neglected fixture in your home might be hanging right above your head - the ceiling fan. Luckily, by flipping a switch, you can improve the effectiveness of this overhead oversight.- Start with dusting the fan blades and housing, and then simply reverse the fan’s usual summer rotation to a clockwise spin to push down warm air from the ceiling. This is easily done with a switch located on the side of the fan’s motor.

Don’t think that fix-ups can’t fit into your fast-paced life. By following these helpful hints, you can quickly and easily renew your home now and make it an inviting retreat throughout the year.

For More information on Moen products, please visit Moen.com or your local home improvement store.

H&H Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com 7

HEALTH

DEALING WITH THE FLU

Flu season is in full swing and has not yet peaked, according to Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases. In fact, current rates of flu and flu-like activity have not been this high in nearly 10 years.

Therefore it is important to understand how to respond if you or someone you care for begins to show signs of the flu.

How Do I Know if I Have the Flu? As a reminder, people with the flu will experience some or all of the following symptoms: - Fever - Cough - Sore throat - Runny or stuffy nose - Body aches - Headache - Chills - Fatigue - Sometimes diarrhea and vomiting

What Should I Do if I get Sick?

The good news is that most people who get the flu will have a mild illness and will not require medical care or antiviral drugs. Therefore, if you get the flu, what you are likely to need most is to stay home and avoid contact with other people.

If your symptoms seem severe or you have concerns, however, call your healthcare provider to ask whether you should schedule an appointment.

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For those who are at greater risk of serious flu-related complications, it is important to contact your doctor if flu symptoms develop. Be sure to remind your healthcare provider about your high risk status for complications from flu. Those with higher risk include young children, elderly people, pregnant women, and people with certain longterm medical conditions.

How Long Should I Stay Home if I Am Sick?

According to a recommendation from the CDC, you should stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone, other than to get medical care, if necessary. This will ensure you are no longer contagious. Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Are There Medicines to Treat the Flu? Yes. Depending on your illness and risk factors, your doctor may prescribe an antiviral for treating the flu. These drugs may shorten the severity and duration of your symptoms and lower your risk of complications. Antivirals are most effective when taken as soon as possible after the onset of symptoms - ideally within the first 48 hours.

For relief of symptoms, a variety of over-the-counter medications (fever/pain reducers, cough suppressants or expectorants, and decongestants) can sometimes be helpful. These will not shorten the duration of the illness, however.

In addition to treating symptoms, be sure to get plenty of rest and fluids.

Continued on page 9

What Are the Emergency Warning Signs?

If you are unsure about how serious of a case of the flu is, consider these emergency warning signs and seek medical attention if they are present. Please be aware that this is not a comprehensive list; always use your best judgment when deciding to seek medical attention.

In Children

- Fast breathing or trouble breathing - Bluish skin color - Not drinking enough fluids - Not waking or interacting - Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held - Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough - Fever with a rash - No tears when crying - Significantly fewer wet diapers than normal

OUR SECOND OFFICE IS NOW

OPEN!

In Adults - Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath - Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen - Sudden dizziness - Confusion - Severe or persistent vomiting - Flu-like symptoms that improve but return with fever and worse cough

When Should I Head to the Emergency Room?

If you have the warning signs of flu that are noted above, you should go to the emergency room. If you have a mild case, however, or if you have general concerns about your illness, consider calling your healthcare provider for advice.

Is It Too Late for a Flu Shot?

No. Although flu season is well underway, you can still benefit from a flu shot. It takes some time for a flu shot to take full effect, however, so your best bet is to get one right away, if you have not already.

Tracking the Flu Want to know about levels of flu activity close to home?

Visit www.flunearyou.com, a Web site that tracks the flu based on your zip code.

At the entrance to Historic Main Street Saint Charles

406 Boones Lick Road 636.493.6500

High-tech and fully wireless with a coffee house style atmosphere.

Come see the future of real estate and discover the Service First Difference.

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Information provided by the CDC | www.cdc.gov H&H Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com 9

HAPPENINGS

Valentine’s Day

BACKGROUND PHOTO BY GINNEROBOT

in the Kitchen Cooking up some

Love

at Kitchen Conservatory

Cooking has become a favorite pastime of many people in St. Louis and around the country. This Valentine’s Day, if you are looking for a romantic and unique way to spend an evening, why not take a couple cooking class?

Kitchen Conservatory offers outstanding classes year round to bring out your inner Bobby Flay, but in February they offer love-inspired classes with a Valentine theme from February sixth through the sixteenth. These are just three of the many classes that they feature, all with a fun Valentine theme: Romance is in the Fare– Love and romance are definitely in the air as this hands-on class creates a delicious dinner starting with kale-bacon salad with Mayfair dressing. Learn to prepare cream of roasted red pepper soup, crab-stuffed veal scallopini with fresh herbs and a mustard sauce, carrot soufflé, buttery baked potato slices, plus Chambord cream roulade cake with blackberry sauce.

Shellfish Lovers– Learn to create individual lobster shepherd’s pies, gold potato-crusted shrimp with a duo of dipping sauces, crispy calamari with crushed tomato and ziti pasta, pan-roasted scallop-frisee salad with sunchoke puree and wild mushroom sauce, plus dark chocolate-dried cherry beggar’s purses.

Love Me Tenderloin– Treat your valentine to a perfect celebration in the kitchen creating a romantic dinner starting with goat cheese soufflés in phyllo cups with frisee salad. This hands-on class will create garlic-thyme seasoned beef tenderloin medallions with port wine glaze, creamy potato “risotto”, wild mushroom-haricots verts and shallot sauté, plus cherries jubilee over vanilla bean ice cream.

Whether you’re a gourmet wannabe, a serious foodie, or a cooking novice, Kitchen Conservatory offers a fun and romantic way to spend Valentine’s Day.

Want More Info?

Kitchen Conservatory 8021 Clayton Rd. St. Louis, MO 63117 Ph: 314.862.COOK 1.866.862.CHEF Store Hours: Mon-Sat 9:30a-5:30p Sunday 12:00-5:00p Visit the Kitchen Conservatory website for a full schedule of classes. While you’re there, check out some of their fabulous recipes, deck out your kitchen with some new cookware from the online store or purchase a gift certificate that can be redeemed for classes or merchandise for your favorite foodie.

KitchenConservatory.com

HAPPENINGS

Set the

Mood

for Your Valentine

Looking to set the romantic tone this Valentine’s Day? Whether treating your sweetie to a night on the town, or staying in for a low-key date, Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to plan something special for your someone special. Here are a few simple tips to help plan the most romantic day for your Valentine:

prix fixe holiday menus dominating the restaurant scene? It’s easy to create a special at-home dinner date with just a little extra planning: Plan a meal with your sweetie’s favorite things, print a festive menu, get dressed to the nines and give yourself the night off (the dishes can wait until February 15th).

Toast your Valentine: In a recent survey for Simply

X marks the spot: Valentine’s Day is the one day of the

Naked Wines, wine was named the drink-of-choice on date night by more than two-thirds of respondents. Impress your Valentine with a romantic bottle of wine, like Simply Naked Wines’ new Undressed Red. The wines’s rich and silky flavors will pair well with dark chocolate and are sure to set the mood for your special night.

year where it’s perfectly acceptable to be over-thetop and lovey-dovey. Create a personalized scavenger hunt for your love that sends them all over town to your favorite spots and ends right in your arms.

Turn off the technology: Turn off your cell phones and

TV, keep laptops closed and enjoy the company of your beloved without checking your email or sports scores. With the exception of your favorite love ballad-filled playlist, Valentine’s Day is the perfect day to give your technology a rest and share some uninterrupted time with your sweetheart.

Bring it home: Want to take that special someone on an incredible date but are tired of the over-priced,

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For more information and results from the survey, visit: SimplyNakedWinesInfographic.com

To view all of our current listings or to try our Lifestyle Search, please visit

www.Service1stHomes.com

H&H Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com 13

SCORE BIG! WITH THESE GAME DAY ENTERTAINING TIPS With football and basketball season in full swing, it’s the perfect time to invite family and friends over to root on the home team. Hosting a crowdpleasing party can be simple with a little preparation. Score big with these simple game day entertaining tips.

Create a game plan. Organize the menu ahead of

time so you’re not scrambling to finish everything at the last minute. Tackle recipes that can be made prior to the big event, and prep any ingredients so they’re ready to cook on the day of the party.

Block extra mess and stress. Finger foods are a

great way to reduce utensil and dish use. Look

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to serve items that can be eaten in one bite, and set out napkins for party guests to use.

Score with decor. Print out team logos and glue

or tape to cups. Purchase green or yellow felt fabric - green to evoke a football field, yellow to evoke the hardwood of a basketball court - from the local craft store to use as a table cloth. Tie team-colored ribbon bows on your door knocker, around lamp shades or any other object you can think of, to show your team spirit.

Snack sack. Pick foods that are easy to make

and fit with the overall game theme. Save time and money by using household staples as ingredients, like Pringles crisps. These quick and easy Loaded Twice-Baked Taters are sure to be a fan favorite.

SETTING THE STAGE FOR

Loaded Twice-Baked Taters Ingredients: 2 6.38-ounce cans of Pringles Loaded Baked Potato flavor

1½ cup skim milk 1 egg 1 slice of American cheese Sour cream, dried chives and bacon bits, for garnish

Directions: Heat oven to 350 F. Place one 6.38-ounce can of Pringles Loaded Baked Potato crisps in a food processor and pulse until well crushed. Add milk, egg and cheese into mixture and puree until well mixed.

Take Pringles from remaining can and place 48 crisps on a cookie sheet with the curve of the crisp facing up, and edges facing down. With a very small spoon, place a rounded scoop onto each crisp. Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes.

Remove and let cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Add a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with dried chives and bacon bits. Serve immediately.

GREAT GAME DAY WATCHING As you’re gearing up to watch the big football game or the pivotal match of a college basketball championship tournament, it’s important to set the stage for a great viewing experience. The game-watching pros at Sanus (www.sanus.com), makers of flat screen accessories like TV wall mounts, offer a few tips for creating the perfect environment for watching the big game: A flat screen TV is a must for most sports lovers and low prices on top-quality sets make it easy to get your hands on a screen worth your devotion. Don’t just grab the first deal you see, however. Research brands and options to find the right screen for your needs.

Once you’ve decided on the screen you want, take steps to display it for maximum impact. Wall mounting a flat screen is the most dramatic, convenient and safe way to display a TV - especially if it’s a large set.

Whatever your needs or your space, you can find a Sanus wall mount that works. Full-motion and tilting mounts allow you to move a screen to maximize viewing from multiple points in the room - so every fan has a front-row seat for the game.

H&H Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com 15

It’s Fry-Day Night!

St. Louis is known for it’s annual tradition of fish fries, and we set out to find out which one is the best.

If you’ve lived in St. Louis for any time at all, you know that during the Lenten season, a fish fry is the place to be on Friday nights. So this year, we set out to find which fish fries were the best in the area. We received a little help from the folks at www.FridayNightFish.com a local website dedicated to all things fish fry.

About the Friday Night Fish Rating System

We chose to partner with Friday Night Fish because they are the only review site that combines comments on Urban Design, Sustainability, and Fried Cod. They rate fish fries on:

1. Wayfinding / Greening

Is the fish fry easy to find? Is ordering clear and easy? Are there logical and helpful signs? Does the line move efficiently? Are real plates, silverware used? Recycling?

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2. Food

The most critical element: How does the Cod stack up? Other selections? Side dishes? Kids Menu?

3. Value

How big are the portions? Dessert and drinks included?

4. Atmosphere

Is the atmosphere lively? Music?

What is the architecture? What kind of seating?

According to the site: THERE ARE NO BAD FISH FRIES! Every fish fry is GREAT! These reviews are completely subjective and meant to be fun. Fish fries are great for each parish and each community and are part of the neighborhood fabric that makes St. Louis such a great place to live! If you truly want to experience a sense of place and community, check out one of these fish fries (or any fish fry), you won’t be disappointed!

Based on their research in 2012, they reached the following conclusions:

Top Fish Fries (Average Score) 1. St. Pius V (4 out of 4) 2. St. Cecilia’s (3.75) 3. Mary Queen of Peace (3.5) 4. St. Gabriel’s (3.5) 5. St. Peter - St. Charles (3.5) 6. St. Michael (3.5) 7. St. Gerard Majella (3.25) 8. St. Rose Philippine Duschesne (3.25) 9. Our Lady of the Lake (3.25)

Best Cod 1. Christ the King 2. St. Henry’s 3. St. Gerard Majella 4. St. Ferdinand 5. St. Michael 6. St. Gabriel’s 7. Our Lady of the Lake 8. St. Pius 9. St. Peter - St. Charles

Best Wayfinding/Greening 1. St. Pius 2. St. Cecilia’s 3. Our Lady of Pillar 4. St. Rose Philippine Duschesne 5. St. Gerald Majella

6. St. Gabriel’s 7. St. Henry’s

Best Value 1. St. Michael - Radom, IL 2. St. Martin of Tours 3. St. Celilia’s 4. Our Lady of the Lake 5. Sacred Heart - DuQuoin, IL 6. St. Peter 7. St. Pius 8. St. Agatha 9. St. James the Greater

Best Atmosphere 1. St. Cecilia’s 2. St. Pius 3. Mary Queen of Peace 4. Knights of Columbus, Edwardsville 5. St. Peter - St. Charles 6. Our Lady of Sorrows 7. Sacred Heart - Eureka, MO While we don’t want to argue with the experts, the staff of this publication are VERY fond of the fish fry at Sts. Joachim and Ann in St. Charles. If you don’t see your favorite on the list feel free to contact us, or better yet, bring samples!

SURVIVING MARDI GRAS Everybody loves a good party! Here are a few tips to help you enjoy the fun and mind your Mardi Gras manners.

Respect the Police

Local law enforcement has a lot to deal with during Mardi Gras. Please, respect them and cooperate.

You’ll make their job, and your life, easier.

Dress for the Weather

You never know what the weather in St. Louis will be...especially in February. All Mardi Gras events happen regardless of weather. Check the weather reports and be prepared for anything. Layers are your best bet.

Leave the Coolers at Home

Bottles, cans, backpacks and coolers are NOT allowed. St. Louis Mardi Gras has checkpoints and these items will be confiscated...and not returned.

Drink Responsibly

This should be obvious. Don’t drink and drive and DON”T drink if you’re under 21. Undercover and uniformed police officers are present and they maintain a strict zero tolerance policy. You will be prosecuted.

Find a Portable Potty

For some reason, 600 portable toilets just aren’t enough for some people. If you decide to do your business elsewhere you will be issued a summons resulting in a court appearance and a maximum penalty of $500.00 and/or 90 days in jail.

Respect Local Residents

Soulard is a residential area. Please respect other peoples’ property and vehicles. Don’t trespass or vandalize.

For more info on St. Louis’ Mardi Gras celebration, visit www.MardiGrasInc.com H&H Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com 17

SAINT LOUIS

HAPPENINGS FEBRUARY 2013

St. Louis Boat and Sportshow Feb 6-10

America’s Center and Edward Jones Dome www.stlouisboatshow.com Consumer show featuring the latest boats, engines, marine accessories and more in the boating industry.

There’s something for everyone! Check out the Texas Bass Tank, Turkey calling/Owl hooting contests and more-Plus FREE fishing for kids!

Adults $10 Youth 15 and younger FREE! 2-day pass $14 (good any two days of the show)

DISNEY LIVE! Phineas and Ferb Feb 9-10

Chaifetz Arena disney.go.com/disneylive/phineas-and-ferb-on-tour “Mom! Phineas and Ferb are going on a LIVE tour!” School’s out for summer and anything is possible as Phineas an Ferb create their biggest invention yet - Disney’s Phineas and Ferb LIVE! Phineas, Ferb, and the whole tri-stare area gang embark on a bold escape from the television screen to a live action adventure - right in your hometown! And, before you can wonder, “ Hey, Where’s Perry?” the beloved pet platypus shifts to his secret double life as Agent P to foil another on of Dr. Doofenshmirtz’s evil plans. Musical madness abounds in an escapade so awesome that even Candace can’t help but join the hilarious hijinks. It’s the ultimate end to the summer vacation, so seize the day ‘cause Phineas and Ferb are gonna do it all! Visit the website for more information and to purchase tickets.

A Valentine Cabaret Mardi Gras Feb 8-12

Soulard Neighborhood www.mardigrasinc.com St. Louis has become one of the premier places in the country to celebrate Mardi Gras. People from around the country will line the streets for beads and fun in the historic Soulard area. Visit www.mardigrasinc.com for a full list of events and times.

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with Dean Christopher Feb 9-10

Dramatic License Theater Chesterfield, MO

www.brownpapertickets.com Dramatic License Productions’ 2013 season kicks off with this popular annual tribute to relationships.

Swinging to your favorite love songs is St. Louis’ own, Dean Christopher accompanied by two of

the area’s best musicians. Dean offers his own take on love songs from Broadway and beyond, complete with a bit of the Rat Pack thrown in! It’s a great date night or fun for a group of singles. Amazing music. Colorful characters. An evening you don’t want to miss!

of-your-seat and your heart pounding. The nationally televised Built Ford Tough Series visits some of the most famous arenas across the United States, including Madison Square Garden in New York and Cowboys Stadium in Texas.

The HeART Studio Feb 9-10

The Magic House www.MagicHouse.org Celebrate your love of art with a special Valentine’s Day-themed weekend in the Museum’s Art Studio. Make an intricate Valentine for someone you love, explore the colors of red and pink with a variety of different art supplies and create a masterpiece that comes straight from the heart.

Breakfast with Ms. Frizzle Feb 10

The Magic House www.MagicHouse.org Rise and shine! On Sunday, February 10 at 9:30 am, The Magic House is hosting a Breakfast with Ms. Frizzle™ that is sure to make your morning sizzle. Enjoy a delicious breakfast and a whirlwind of activities as you get your picture taken with Ms. Frizzle, make a fun craft to take home, have The Magic House all to yourselves and be one of the first to breeze through The Magic School Bus Kicks Up a Storm exhibit. “Weather” you prefer your eggs scrambled or sunny-side up, this is one event that you will want to put on your radar! Tickets are sure to go lightning fast, so make your reservation today! $15 - members, $20 - nonmembers

PBR St. Louis Invitational Feb 15-17

Scottrade Center www.PBR.com Every event begins with pyrotechnics, explosions, flames. Then the excitement really begins when the Top 35 bull riders in the world compete against the fiercest bucking bulls on the planet, providing two hours of thrills and spills guaranteed to keep you on the edge-

Builder’s Home and Garden Show Feb 21-24

America’s Center www.stlhomeshow.com The St. Louis Builders Home & Garden Show is one of the largest quality consumer home shows in North America.

The Show has been in existence for more than 35 years, and is the place for area consumers to see, touch, compare and buy everything they need for their homes, yards and gardens. Approximately 500 exhibitors in 1,800 booths fill almost 400,000 square feet of America’s Center in downtown St. Louis to create this must-see event! Special discounts are available and there are free shuttles running from the Arch garage and lots on Laclede’s Landing. $10- adults, $4- children, 5 & under FREE

Working Women’s Survival Show Feb 22-24

St. Charles Convention Center www.wwssonline.com It’s the annual “Ultimate Girl’s Day Out” with over 370 exhibits, seminars, unique products, lots of food, fashion, fitness & fun. There is free parking at the St. Charles Convention Center and at designated lots at the Ameristar Casino.

Shuttle service will be provided from the lower level lots at Ameristar to the Convention Center upper level entrance every 15 minutes. Shuttle service begins 30 minutes prior to show opening until 30 minutes after show closes.

Tickets can be purchased on the WWSS web site, at Shop N Save beginning in January, or days of show at the Convention Center box office. Two day wristbands also available.

H&H Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com 19

MEET OUR TEAM OF DEDICATED AGENTS Susan Brewer 314.540.0734

Susan@SusanBrewer.com

Diane Huesgen 636.936.8600

Diane@Service1stHomes.com

Lee Cowap 636.795.0680

Lee@Service1stHomes.com

Mike Lampe 636.751.4442

Mike@Service1stHomes.com

Ashley Bahr 636.373.0194

Ashley@Service1stHomes.com

Heather Harris 636.284.1337

Debbie Sigler 314.973.0195

Heather@Service1stHomes.com Debbie@Service1stHomes.com

Julie Alsup 314.378.5146

Julie@Service1stHomes.com

Our team of Independent Realtors is ready to help you achieve your Real Estate dreams!

At Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate, our goal is to help you realize your real estate goals while giving you the highest level of service possible. Our office utilizes the very latest in technology and by using our proven marketing strategies and unique concepts, we can sell our listings for higher dollar and in a shorter amount of time than our competitors - no matter what their size. Give us a call today and let us show you the

Service First Difference!

Tammie Meyer 636.578.4399

Tammie@Service1stHomes.com

Sally Lee 314.520.3331

Sally@Service1stHomes.com

Lori Pisani 636.578.7781

Lori@Service1stHomes.com

Stacy Iffrig 636.734.1364

Stacy@Service1stHomes.com

Janice Smith 314.277.2785

Janice@Service1stHomes.com

Lisa Samuels 636.484.0633

Lisa@Service1stHomes.com

Tom Budde 636.734.4414

Tom@Service1stHomes.com

Steve Savory 314.604.3999

Steve.Savory@Service1stHomes.com

www.Service1stHomes.com