When we think about the rooms we call home, color sets the tone. From creamy mattes to textured wood grains, all the lighter hues in our finish palette can be beautifully layered or used alone to enhance the design of your custom solution — and the style of your space. And through February 28, you can save up to 15% on selected shades. Take the first step and schedule your complimentary design consultation. on our lighter finishes* now through February 28.
After building thousands of life-changing relationships one client at a time, Joan Schnoebelen and Megan Schnoebelen Rowe have dominated sales in St. Louis for over four decades. Together they have rewritten the code for customer service, and have redefined a world-class client experience—
Welcome to the Evolution LAUNCHING WINTER 2025
Lilac Trace is Bridge Senior Living’s specialized Memory Care program. It was created through the years of Memory Care experience our collective team possesses, from individual caregivers at each community to our executive team members.
and Dementia Care.
by stephanie wallace
st. louis realtors
Congratulations to Sam Hall of Dielmann Sotheby’s International Realty! He was elected president of the organization, which is dedicated to providing real estate professionals with knowledge, guidance and resources.
ywca metro st. louis
The organization is celebrating the success of its Leader Lunch 44. At the event, more than 900 attendees came together to raise more than $117,000. As well as recognizing the YMCA’s 120 years of impact, nine Leaders of Distinction and a Future Leader were honored.
assistance league of st. louis
As part of a long standing tradtion, Republic Services collected toys for the children and families served by the nonprofit. OsteoStrong Chesterfield and OsteoStrong Creve Coeur joined the effort as well this holiday season.
The nonprofit’s Divine 9 Challenge raised more than $320,000. The challenge brings together Black fraternities and sororities with members in the Charmaine Chapman Society for a friendly fundraising competition. Delta Sigma Theta led the way, raising $82,321.85.
by stephanie wallace
ON AVERAGE, someone in the U.S. dies from cardiovascular disease, such as a heart attack or stroke, every 34 seconds. Even more are impacted by nonfatal cardiac events. The health care costs are more than $400 billion—a figure expected to triple by 2050. For more than 100 years, the American Heart Association has been dedicated to combating these dangerous statistics and creating a world free from the constraints of heart disease. Through groundbreaking medical research and community education, the nonprofit is relentlessly dedicated to ensuring all people—regardless of socioeconomic status, race or location—can live longer, healthier lives.
The American Heart Association takes a multi-pronged approach to combating heart disease. The organization works year-round with community leaders and health care professionals to reach the community through discovery, advocacy, equity and knowledge of its mission. “Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of people in America and across the world—it doesn’t discriminate on who it affects,” says Beth Burks, associate vice president of development for the nonprofit’s local chapter. “The American Heart Association is working toward a world where everyone has access to quality care and can live equipped with the knowledge and resources necessary to make the right decision about their heart health.”
Heart health is an especially important issue for St. Louis, according to Burks. With our city’s excellent medical infrastructure, it has played a central role in advancing the fight against heart disease. “The American Heart Association has invested more than $5 billion in research, both here in St. Louis and across the country,” Burks says. As well as funding cardiovascular advancement, the nonprofit works in our community through a variety of initiatives, such as education on hypertension and blood pressure control, instruction in hands-only CPR and improved access to nutritious food.
The American Heart Association is committed to improving heart health for all people in the region. One way it unites the community is the Heart of St. Louis campaign, an initiative that brings local leaders together to invest in supporting better health for everyone. The campaign culminates in the Heart Ball. “The event is not only one of our largest annual fundraisers, it’s a time for us to celebrate the culmination of all we have done throughout the year,” Burks says. “The community comes together to ensure everyone can access the education and resources necessary to live a healthier life.”
This year’s Heart Ball is Jan. 31 at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis. Inspired by the concept of giving heart disease the boot, the evening will have a country western theme, and guests can look forward to storytelling, dinner, dancing and an exciting live auction. “Last year, we celebrated the American Heart Association’s 100th anniversary at the Heart Ball,” Burks notes. “In that time, the organization has done so much to transform the landscape of cardiovascular health—from outreach and education to groundbreaking research. Now, we’re excited to look forward to how we’ll build on that legacy. Our goal is to create a future of health and hope for everyone in St. Louis.” &
by bill beggs jr.
Conspiracy theories still circle around the JFK assassination in Dallas on Nov. 22, 1963. There’s still talk among theorists of multiple gunmen and the “grassy knoll,” when exhaustive research and post-mortems hold that Lee Harvey Oswald was a lone gunman. But there had been a much earlier plot against John F. Kennedy on Dec. 11, 1960—when he was president-elect. Bestselling author and acclaimed historian Brad Meltzer will appear at 7 p.m. on Jan. 18 at the Clark Family Branch of our county library to discuss and sign his latest book, The JFK Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Assassinate Kennedy—and Why It Failed. From the co-writer of The New York Times bestsellers of The Nazi Conspiracy and The Lincoln Conspiracy comes a little-known true story about the first assassination attempt on JFK, right before his inauguration. (Meltzer’s co-author is Josh Mensch, who is not scheduled to appear.) Kennedy, our 35th president, is often ranked among Americans’ most well-liked. Yet what most of us don’t know is that JFK’s historic presidency almost ended before it began at the hands of a disgruntled sociopathic loner armed with dynamite. Meltzer has written more than 10 other bestselling thrillers, as well as the Ordinary People Change the World series of historical biographies for children. He also hosts the History Channel TV shows Brad Meltzer’s Decoded and Brad Meltzer’s Lost History, which he used to help find the missing 9/11 flag that New York City firefighters had raised at Ground Zero. Visit slcl.org.
BILL BEGGS JR. HAS WORN MANY HATS AT NEWSPAPERS, MAGAZINES AND IN MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS SINCE BEFORE THE ERA OF THE FLOPPY DISC. NOW HE JUST WEARS A HAT TO KEEP HIS BALD SPOT FROM GETTING SUNBURNT. YOU CAN REACH HIM AT WRTRS.BLCK@GMAIL.COM.
Nikki Glaser, a Kirkwood Pioneer, is now a true pioneer in the global sense: She is the first woman to host the Golden Globes solo, and critics far and wide gave her monologue and in-betweeners thumbs-up, all but assuring her a return gig at the awards, or perhaps the pick of the litter. Maybe the Academy Awards? But Glaser would have been remiss to not mention that her take was less than what stand-up comedian Jo Koy pulled down last year for his performance, which was unevenly rated. So, who says any glass ceilings of the world have yet to be shattered? Maybe they have at some businesses, like in the StL at Edward Jones, but not in Hollywood. Glaser took obvious pleasure in ribbing the entertainment industry’s glitterati, such as Timothy Chalamet, impossibly youthful star of a well-received Bob Dylan biopic, to wit: “You have the most gorgeous eyelashes—on your upper lip!” But her best comment came at the close of her monologue. Her closing joke didn’t hit as hard as she’d hoped, so she went off-script. “Before we start handing out awards, I do want to remind you if you lose tonight, please just keep in mind that the point of making art is not to win an award,” Glaser began, closing with this zinger: “The point of making art is to start a tequila brand so popular that you never have to make art again.” Glaser was as cool as the other side of the pillow. Her boundless creativity made me think of the wonderfully snarky comment that Elvis Costello credits to the late Martin Mull: “Writing about music is like dancing about architecture.” What’s next for this hometown heroine? Certainly, a star on the St. Louis Walk of Fame in the Delmar Loop, one would hope!
I just heard from my good friend Blair, who’d decamped to Delray Beach, Florida, before our so-called “snow event” of 2025. Many in the media have referred to the well-predicted winter storm as “Snowmageddon ’25,” but Blair, who was out last week walking a friend’s Shih Tzu through the dewy, sprinkler-infused lawns of exclusive neighborhoods, had only to worry about wiping the dog’s paws before they went back inside. He doesn’t recall a winter storm ever having a name (although a storm earlier in January in the American southwest was named Anya). “It was surreal,” says Blair, that the blizzard (if that’s what a TV meteorologist would call it) bore his name. Blair remembered being idled in Dogtown in February 1982 when the “Blizzard of ’82” dumped 20 inches on the metro, paralyzing the bi-state area. My parents, who lived in Edwardsville at the time, were undeterred. After asking their elderly next-door neighbor Dot what she needed, they roped a kid’s sled behind them and returned with supplies—a fifth of bourbon for her and several gallons of Gallo wine for themselves. The StL is a unique north-south weathervane for the Midwest: On Jan. 5, north of Interstate 70, as much as 14 inches of snow fell. South of I-44, 4 to 6 inches were mixed with sleet and freezing rain. Friends who have residences in U. City and Portageville, Missouri—in the southeastern section of our state referred to as the bootheel—vamoosed from here the day before Blair (the storm). They only got rain. Blair (my friend), who flew to Florida on New Year’s Day, is scheduled to return home Jan. 19. The previous officially named winter storm, in December, was Zeus. I think I’ve only known a dog so named.
WHEN DID KIRKWOOD’S NIKKI GLASER GRADUATE FROM KHS? From what institution did she get her college degree, and in what discipline did she get it?
Which of these modern inventions did Leonardo da Vinci not imagine in his vast collection of detailed notebooks from the 15th and 16th centuries? 1. Helicopter 2. Submarine 3. Printing press 4. Machine gun 5. Parachute 6. Camera If he didn’t dream them up himself, Leonardo da Vinci at least sketched concepts for all of these modern inventions in his vast collection of detailed notebooks from the 15th and 16th centuries.
Although Peg Weathers has spent decades working as a high-level exec for metro organizations from SLU to Kirkwood-Des Peres Chamber of Commerce and in Washington, D.C. in the 1990s as a point person for U.S. Secretary of Transportation Federico Peña, she is anything but a wonk, policy or otherwise. Public affairs and economic development have been her stock in trade for more than 30 years. As president and CEO of Grand Center Arts District since 2023, Weathers is dedicated to ensuring that the 12 square blocks of Midtown—from Lindell north to Delmar, and Vandeventer east to Compton—stay vibrant and safe and continue to grow and flourish. Sixty arts organizations call the district home, from the under-renovation Powell Music Hall to our Fabulous Fox, as do many others that are smaller, yet no less important, such as the Grandel Theatre and The Center, where Story Stitchers Arts Collective is based. But she’s been here before, as executive VP during the tenure of Vince Schoemehl, the former mayor, who headed up the organization from 2001 until his retirement in 2015. Weathers was instrumental in getting the area established as a Community Improvement District (CID) as well as starting the process of securing a TIF (Tax Increment Financing) package with multiple owners, which was unusual at the time. “Vince referred to the district as a driver of the city’s economic engine,” says Weathers. That was certainly evident in 2022, when the district generated $136 million in economic impact to the metro. She emphasizes that the Grand Center Arts District is not in competition with other metro entertainment areas, so the Delmar Loop, to cite just one example, is safe from being elbowed out by the burgeoning arts district just a few miles east. Rather, TV is the challenge. “We’re competing with the couch—with Netflix and Hulu, etc.,” she points out. “The work we do is akin to Forest Park Forever.” That is, the park’s marketing arm takes great pains not to promote one world-class attraction over another, but the park itself as a destination. The same principle applies at Grand Center: An expanded Powell Hall will make quite a splash throughout the metro when it reopens this September, according to projections, as Jack C. Taylor Music Center. But Weathers and her team want to make sure that smaller groups, such as Jazz St. Louis, are each perceived as satisfying pieces of the same scrumptious pie. All ships rise with the tide, the saying goes. To wit: Every organization in the district, as well as visitors, will benefit from a $7 million to $10 million street-lighting project slated for completion over the summer. About 280 old-school streetlights will be replaced with some 350 new ones equipped with cost-effective LED lamps. Finally, answers to questions you might have wanted us to ask: A native St. Louisan, Weathers graduated from Bishop DuBourg Catholic High School in south St. Louis. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from Mizzou, also earning her master’s in radio, TV and film in Columbia. Want more? Visit grandcenterinc.org. &
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WE’RE COMPETING WITH THE COUCH—WITH NETFLIX AND HULU, ETC.
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The 66th annual Fleur de Lis Charity Ball was held Dec. 28 at the Hyatt Regency. The event benefits SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital, and the organization has raised more than $3,000,000 for the hospital to date. To find photos from the evening, visit townandstyle.com, and to learn more about the Fleur de Lis, visit fleurdelisstl.org.
Mercy Hospital St. Louis welcomed the first St. Louisan born in 2025! Miamor was born to parents Felicia and Jacquez Narvaez at 12.27 a.m. Best wishes!
by patty hannum
THERE ARE CERTAIN ACRONYMS that evoke a reaction in people. No one wants to hear from the IRS. The FBI wanting to sit down with you for a chat completely unsettles you. Hearing that the SEC is interested in learning more about your trades in your investment account might bring Martha Stewart to mind. And if anyone tells you they need to go to the DMV, you more often than not commiserate with their plight.
A little background first. I have had a tough year mentally. My OCD ran rampant, and it has only been recently that I feel like myself. So, any activity that was the least bit anxiety provoking sent me into a tailspin. It was not pretty, but I survived. So, when I got a notice that it was time to get my driver’s license renewed, my first thought was to give up driving. Not very rational! Oh, and if I wanted a Real ID to allow me to travel via airplanes, extra paperwork was needed. Both my husband and son had been through the process. The process is not a problem, but
St. Louis has lost a true visionary in its artistic and cultural landscape.
On Jan. 4, Michael Hamilton passed away. As co-founder and artistic director of STAGES St. Louis, Hamilton directed more than 100 productions and earned numerous accolades, including Kevin Kline Awards, St. Louis Theatre Circle Awards and the Arts and Education Council’s prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.
The road to the Winter Olympic Games in Italy is going through the Lou. U.S. Figure Skating selected St. Louis to host the 2026 Prevagen U.S. Figure Skating Championships, the final qualifier before the selection of the U.S. Olympic Figure Skating Team. The event will take place Jan. 5-11 at Enterprise Center.
the always crowded waiting room is. Carey spent about an hour and half waiting for his turn. The DMV takes your phone number and sends you a text when it is your turn, and you can see where you are in line by clicking a link on your phone. Jack got his rather easily. It took him 20 minutes. Just enough time to play with his phone and his number was up.
I, however, always anticipate the worst. I can be a rather doom-and-gloom kind of person. So I prepared myself with the needed documents, and off I went to the DMV by Deer Creek. I registered by typing in my name and phone number and picking the reason I was there. Before I could do anything else, I heard ‘Patricia H.’ That was me! Or maybe another Patricia H., but the kind woman behind the desk confirmed I was the one she was looking for. I handed over my documents. She looked through them thoroughly. Gave me a vision test and then told me to stand up against the blue wall for my photo. As regular readers
The J’s Winter Used Book Sale is Jan. 26-30. Thousands of titles will be available as well as collectibles, antiques, DVDs and more. For a full schedule, visit jccstl.com.
know, I suffer from RBF, but as she snapped, I smiled. I paid the fee for the new license and was out of there in under 10 minutes.
When I got home, Carey assumed I had not yet gone. Wrong! I was done and had a photocopy of a smiling Patty to prove it. He was excited for my good fortune. I, however, had prepared myself for this arduous task and needed to lie down on my bed to let the built-up doom and gloom pass. It took about an hour!
So, thank you to the DMV for such efficiency. Thank you, dad, who I was praying to that I make it through the whole process without doing anything embarrassing. I cracked my doom-and-gloom attitude, if just for 24 hours, but it felt great. Let me know if you want me to come with you to the DMV. I think I might be good luck. But do not call if you hear from the IRS, FBI or SEC. You are on your own. Peace my peeps! &
by dr. tim jordan
gratitude is consistently associated with higher levels of positive emotions, such as happiness, joy, compassion and generosity. It allows us to relish good experiences, improve our health and develop strong relationships. Thankfulness also allows people to deal more effectively when adversity strikes.
With relationships, individuals who took time to express gratitude for their partner not only felt more positive toward the other person, but also felt more comfortable expressing concerns about their relationship. When partners feel and express gratitude for each other, they each become more satisfied with their relationship. Gratitude may also encourage a more equitable division of labor between partners.
Grateful people sleep better: they get more hours of sleep each night, spend less time awake before falling asleep and feel more refreshed upon awakening. Appreciative folks also have stronger immune systems and lower blood pressure. So what’s not to like, right?
The following are some of my favorite ways to express gratitude:
1. Tell people in person what you appreciate about them or their actions. Push past the awkward feeling you might have to do this, and remember how good you felt when someone shared affirmations about you in person.
2. Write letters of appreciation, and better yet, hand write them. There is something amazing about getting a handwritten letter; it just feels more personal.
3. Use the George Bailey method. In the cherished holiday movie, It’s a Wonderful Life, actor Jimmy Stewart’s character, George Bailey, gets to see what his family, friends and town would have been like if he had never been born. Everyone would have suffered greatly without his influence. Imagine what your life would be like without all of your major blessings, such as your parents, spouse, children, friends, co-workers and career, and positive life events. This process usually brings about deep feelings of gratitude for these people and experiences.
4. One final suggestion, especially after this year’s contentious political scene: purposefully adopt an upbeat mindset. Whether when you are out with friends or sitting with relatives, connect with them over positive things versus gossip or grievances. Share gratitude and things you are looking forward to this year. What you focus on you tend to get more of, and noticing the positives in your life magnifies the pleasure you receive from said life. And when we appreciate the value of something, we extract more benefits from it and are less likely to take it for granted.
I am grateful for each and every one of you readers who take the time to read my columns each month. And I look forward to many more opportunities to connect. See, that wasn’t so hard.
TIM JORDAN, M.D., IS A BEHAVIORAL PEDIATRICIAN WHO COUNSELS GIRLS AGED GRADE SCHOOL THRU COLLEGE. LISTEN TO HIS WEEKLY PODCAST, RAISING DAUGHTERS, TO GAIN INFORMATION ON RAISING STRONG, RESILIENT GIRLS. FOR MORE INFO ON DR. JORDAN’S RETREATS, SUMMER CAMPS AND BOOKS VISIT DRTIMJORDAN.COM.
Established in 1946, this traditional overnight summer camp for kids ages 8 to 15 provides an amazing camp experience in a safe, nurturing and fun environment. With a wide range of land and water activities, it’s time to take a break from technology to create memories that will last a lifetime! 314.993.1655 | taumsauk.com
Children entering kindergarten through grade seven are invited to join Camp Whitfield for an array of offerings from June through August. Each session, campers will engage in an array of science, creative art and technology topics as well as art, games, sports and leadership activities led by Whitfield faculty members and alumni counselors. 175 S. Mason Road | 314.434.5141 whitfieldschool.org/summer-programs
CHURCHILL CENTER & SCHOOL’S SUMMER SCHOOL
Designed for children with language-based learning disabilities, Churchill’s six-week individualized curriculum includes: daily one-on-one tutorial, language arts, fine arts, math, auditory visual training and motor skills. We empower our students to thrive, no matter how they learn! Contact director of enrollment management Susan Howison at showison@churchillstl.org. 1021 Municipal Center Drive | 314.997.4343 | churchillstl.org
FORSYTH SUMMER DISCOVERY
Summer begins here June 9! Forsyth Summer Discovery provides a balance of structure and age-appropriate freedom, offering children age 3 through grade seven a largely unplugged experience with a neighborhood feel. Extended day is available; additional fees apply. 6235 Wydown Blvd. | 314.726.4542 forsythschool.org/summer-discovery
SUMMER OPPORTUNITIES AT ROSSMAN
We are excited to provide opportunities for your children to explore interests, develop their abilities and build friendships through a curated selection of camp offerings in a nurturing school environment. 12660 Conway Road | 314.434.5877 rossmanschool.org/summer
WILSON SUMMER CAMPS
Two camps, one great summer! Give your little tinkerers (grades three to six) the chance to experiment, create and build at The Wilson School’s Think Camp. It includes hands-on experiences in STEM through labs, challenges, digital investigations, game design and more. Wilson Day Camp (preschool to grade six) includes thematic units for each age group, plus trips to Shaw Park Aquatic Center for outdoor fun.
400 De Mun Ave.| 314.725.4999 wilsonschool.com/summer-camp
▲ conway elementary school
Students brought some holiday joy to the patients of Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital. Fourth graders in the Conway Chorus performed holiday songs and delivered more than 300 handmade cards crafted by the school community. The schoolwide card-making initiative was led by third-grade teacher Linda Armbruster and the Conway Education Committee.
by stephanie wallace
▶
Ash Falk secured the Missouri State Cyclocross Championship title in the Junior category. The race was held at Vlasis Park in Ballwin in December. Falk joined the Cyclocross team as a freshman, and this marked his first time competing at a state competition. Congrats!
Sophomore Amelia Chostner earned first place in the St. Louis Writers Guild Young Writers Contest. This year’s contest was themed around change, and Chostner’s story, “Chaosborne,” follows a young girl that lives in a world that is constantly in flux. Entries were evaluated based on originality, characters, cohesiveness and technical aspects like spelling, punctuation and grammar. “Chaosborne” will be published in the YWA Collection, an anthology of the contest’s winning stories.
The EcoBlazers Club held an Upcycle pop-up shop. It sold bookmarks, seed bombs, knickknack holders and dried flower vases made from reused and repurposed items, offering students the opportunity to learn about eco-friendly practices. The club, which is in its first year, is overseen by kindergarten teacher Stephanie Nickolotsky. It meets twice a month and also oversees the elementary school’s green spaces.
Juniors at the high school organized a diaper drive benefiting the St. Louis Area Diaper Bank. They collected diapers, female personal care items and monetary donations during homeroom sessions. In December, a check for $811.96 was presented to the St. Louis Area Diaper Bank. Additionally, students and teachers worked together to package and deliver more than 1,500 diapers for distribution to families in need.
The high school’s boys swimming and diving team captured its third consecutive MSHSAA Class 1 state championship—making it the ninth school in Missouri to accomplish the feat. The team had members place in the top eight in all but two individual events.
1. Accessible Home Health Care of St. Louis
Accessible Home Health Care’s dedicated team members set it apart from other health care agencies. They all have a minimum of four years of experience, and most are certified CNAs. Owner Andy Schenck meets with each client personally, and all clients have his cell phone number, making him available 24/7.
PICTURED: OWNERS ANDY SCHNECK AND LYNN SCHNECK
443 N. NEW BALLAS ROAD, STE. 231
314.738.9979
ACCESSIBLESTL.COM
2. Advanced Nursing Services of St. Louis
For more than 40 years, Advanced Nursing Services has provided one-on-one private duty nursing. We have aides and nurses with the highest level of professionalism and offer truly full-service continuity of care.
PICTURED: OWNER MAGGIE HOLTMAN
230 S. BEMISTON AVE., STE. 810
314.863.3030
3. The Grande Assisted Living & Memory Care Communities
Each senior living community we manage goes beyond the expected, creating living spaces that offer the safety and serenity you deserve, along with an innovative and invigorating lifestyle you’ll embrace. We have three communities in the St. Louis area. Visit our website to find the location that’s right for you.
BRIDGESENIORLIVING.COM
4. McKnight Place Assisted Living & Memory Care
Executive chef John Morales brings a demonstrated record of success to his role at McKnight Place. His approach is simple— use the best ingredients possible to create flavorful meals for our residents.
3 McKNIGHT PLACE
314.993.3333
MCKNIGHTPLACE.COM
5. Arya Namin, M.D., FACS
Dr. Namin is a board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who specializes in rhinoplasty, facial rejuvenation and cancer reconstruction.
607 S. NEW BALLAS ROAD, STE. 2300
314.251.6394
DRNAMIN.COM
6. Birkenstock & More
Think color, color, color for Spring 2025.
12350 OLIVE BLVD.
314.434.4430
BIRKENSTOCKSTL.COM
7. Our Lady of the Pillar School
Innovative and nurturing, Pillar serves preschool through eighth grade students. Pop in to our open house, Jan. 26 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., or call for a personal tour.
403 S LINDBERGH BLVD.
314.993.3353
8. PWRx Health
Boost recovery, reduce inflammation and improve overall wellness with full-body cryotherapy. A quick, cold session revitalizes your body and mind in minutes!
1334 STRASSNER DRIVE
314.940.7576
PWRXHEALTH.COM
9. Air Comfort Service
Nine out of 10 homes are under-insulated. For a limited time, get free attic insulation with the purchase of a full HVAC system.
314.814.8454
AIRCOMFORTSERVICE.COM
10. California Closets
Now through Feb. 28, save up to 15% on select lighter shades with our Serene Spaces promotion. Schedule your complimentary design consultation today!
9701 MANCHESTER ROAD
636.720.0455
CALIFORNIACLOSETS.COM/ST-LOUIS
11. Immerse
Graff’s new Cameo collection brings style and grace to your home. Start off your new year by adding these pieces to your bathroom. Cheers to 2025, your friends at Immerse.
836 HANLEY INDUSTRIAL COURT
314.375.1500
IMMERSESTL.COM
12. Liston Design Build
Liston Design Build offers tailored home remodeling expertise and concierge service built on trust for more than 40 years for clients across the St. Charles and St. Louis areas.
1106 1ST CAPITOL DRIVE
636.940.9417
LISTONDESIGNBUILD.COM
13. NewSpace Home Organization
Let our expert designers get you organized! NewSpace offers the finest craftsmanship to deliver a lifetime warranty and 100% satisfaction on every home organization project.
1960 INNERBELT BUSINESS CENTER DRIVE
314.423.3200
NEWSPACE.COM
14. Sallie Home
Smithey skillets make an exceptional gift, blending heirloom-quality craftsmanship with timeless style. Perfect for the culinary enthusiast, they offer a beautiful, versatile piece that will be cherished for years to come. Pictured are our two most popular options.
9821 CLAYTON ROAD
314.567.7883
SALLIEHOME.COM
15. Two Rivers Stone Boutique
We are excited to offer the most distinctive natural stone from Brazil, India, the U.S. and Italy. We support other St. Louis businesses, and our warehouse is filled with beautiful onyx, granite, quartzite and marble.
9215 DIELMAN INDUSTRIAL DRIVE
314.369.1788
TWORIVERSSTONE.COM
THE RITZ-CARLTON, ST. LOUIS | 6 P.M. 314.880.5403
DANCINGWITHTHESTLSTARS.COM
1/25 & 1/26
BEETHOVEN AND MAHLER: MASTERFUL STORYTELLERS
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra STIFEL THEATRE
314.534.1700 | SLSO.ORG
1/31
BEETHOVEN X BEYONCÉ
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra
STIFEL THEATRE | 7:30 P.M. 314.534.1700 | SLSO.ORG
ST. LOUIS HEART BALL
American Heart Association
THE RITZ-CARLTON, ST. LOUIS | 6 P.M. 314.692.5600 | HEART.ORG/HEARTOFSTLOUIS
2/7
BLACKSTAR SYMPHONY: THE MUSIC OF DAVID BOWIE
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra STIFEL THEATRE | 7:30 P.M. 314.534.1700 | SLSO.ORG
2/14 & 2/15
TCHAIKOVSKY’S ROMEO AND JULIET: THE ROMANTICS
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra
UMSL’S TOUHILL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 314.534.1700 | SLSO.ORG
2/14-2/16
TO LOVE FT. TONY AWARD-WINNING CHOREOGRAPHER JUSTIN PECK
Saint Louis Ballet
KIRKWOOD PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
314.534.1111 | STLOUISBALLET.ORG/TOLOVE
4/11-4/13
KALEIDOSCOPE CROWN
Center of Creative Arts
COCA CAMPUS
314.725.6555 | COCASTL.ORG
4/24
ST. LOUIS GO RED FOR WOMEN LUNCHEON
American Heart Association THE RITZ-CARLTON, ST. LOUIS | 11 A.M. 314.692.5600 | HEART.ORG/STLOUISGORED
4/25
COCACABANA
Center of Creative Arts
COCA CAMPUS 314.725.6555
COCASTL.ORG/COCACABANA-EVENT
4/25-4/27
FEELS LIKE BROADWAY
Saint Louis Ballet
TOUHILL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 314.534.1111 | STLOUISBALLET.ORG/BROADWAY
4/29
ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
Signature Healthcare Foundation
WHITMOOR COUNTRY CLUB | NOON 618.791.8737 | SIGNATUREFOUNDATION.ORG
5/9-5/11
VERVE
Center of Creative Arts COCA CAMPUS
314.725.6555 | COCASTL.ORG
5/24
HARMONIOUS Center of Creative Arts COCA CAMPUS 314.725.6555 | COCASTL.ORG
5/31
METRO ST. LOUIS HEART WALK
8/16
GATEWAY DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL
Signature Healthcare Foundation CREVE COEUR LAKE
618.791.8737 | GATEWAYDRAGONBOAT.COM
by diane anderson
The event marked the 30th anniversary of Union Avenue Opera, which is dedicated to making world class opera performances accessible to the St. Louis community while supporting emerging artists. Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and drinks, a silent auction and raffle, wine pull
The annual fundraiser helps the children at Ranken Jordan transition home from hospital so they can live to their fullest potential. Guests enjoyed food and drinks, live and silent auctions, and dancing and music with D.J. Rico Steez. The 2024 Mary Ranken Jordan Service to Children award was presented to Rabbi Mark and Carol Shook. guests: Event co-chairs Julie and Ralph Grant, president and CEO Shawn Dryden
Saturda y, January 25th, 2025 at 6pm | The Ritz - Carlton
Time is running out! Don’t miss a magical event featuring some of the St. Louis region’s finest as they dance the night away!
Stéphane Conducts Ravel
Sonic Impressionism
Jan 17 & 19 Fri 7:30pm, Sun 3:00pm
Touhill Performing Arts Center at UMSL
Stéphane Denève, conductor
Kirill Gerstein, piano
Beethoven and Mahler
Masterful Storytellers
Jan 25–26 Sat 7:30pm, Sun 3:00pm
Stifel Theatre
Stéphane Denève, conductor
James Ehnes, violin
by
diane anderson
The event invited guests to dust off their platform shoes and bell bottoms to boogie in support of the Walker Scottish Rite Clinic, which is dedicated to teaching children ages 2 to 6 with speech and language disorders the communication skills necessary to succeed in school and beyond. The disco-themed evening included dinner, live and silent auctions, and dancing.
by stephanie wallace
Washington University School of Medicine has received a renewal of a prestigious research grant from the National Cancer Institute. Led by principal investigator Dr. Daniel Link, the Specialized Program of Research Excellence (SPORE) grant in leukemia provides funding for translational research into new and innovative therapies for patients with different types of blood cancers. The five-year grant brings $10.8 million to the program. “The studies funded by the SPORE are among the most innovative in the field of blood cancer, and they’re available right here in St. Louis,” says Link, who also serves as the Alan A. and Edith L. Wolff Endowed Professor of Medicine, and Siteman Cancer Center’s deputy director.
Step into the power of Red Light Therapy designed to boost energy, reduce inflammation, rejuvenate skin, and accelerate full-body recovery.
Pair it with Ballancer® Pro, a state-of-the-art, FDA-cleared lymphatic massage that detoxes, tones, and revitalizes you from the inside out.
Recharge, renew, and redefine your best self in 2025. Start the New Year feeling stronger, healthier, and unstoppable.
Research at Saint Louis University is investigating a gender gap in research into the effects of concussions on athletes. Data shows that the number of women and girls treated for sports-related concussions has tripled in the past two decades, but research has not looked into disparities between the sexes. Dr. Jamil Neme, director of the Concussion Clinic at SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital, notes that more research is necessary to understand what physiologic or biomechanical, social and environmental factors influence injury rates between men and women.
A team at Washington University School of Medicine has successfully delivered immunotherapy directly to the gut via probiotic to shrink tumors in mice. The research has the potential to create new oral treatments for hard-to-reach gastrointestinal cancers. Existing immunotherapy for such cancers is delivered intravenously. The study found that mice treated with the probiotic had fewer tumors than those given an injection. “We have engineered a yeast-based probiotic that delivers immunotherapy directly to the tumor site.,” says Dr. Gautam Dantas, the Conan Professor of Laboratory and Genomic Medicine in the Department of Pathology & Immunology. “Our hope is that one day the probiotic could be added to the arsenal of therapies to help shrink tumors in people.”
A new study from Saint Louis University explores the impact of COVID-19 on breastfeeding habits. The researchers looked at the breastfeeding practices of a diverse sample of U.S. mothers across various regions, income levels, and racial/ethnic backgrounds. It was found that 34% of mothers said stay-at-home orders facilitated easier breastfeeding, more mother-child bonding and a longer breastfeeding duration. “Observing the pandemic’s impact on breastfeeding illuminated the urgent need for holistic, supportive work policies,” says María José Romo-Palafox, Ph.D., assistant professor of nutrition and dietetics. “I am passionate about contributing to solutions that support breastfeeding and provide mental health and financial stability resources for mothers, creating healthier outcomes for both mothers and children across diverse backgrounds.”
By Stephanie Wallace
2025 is here, and for many of us, that means New Year’s resolutions. As we reach the middle of January, potential setbacks to success have probably already started rearing their head. We’re breaking down some common mistakes people make when trying to get started with better habits. Even if you didn’t make any resolutions as the clock wound down on Dec. 31, it’s never too late to set some goals for self improvement.
Set firm, realistic goals to achieve. However, also give yourself some wiggle room. If your goal is to be more involved in the community, try fitting regular volunteering into your weekly schedule, but if you find it conflicts with other commitments, don’t be afraid to adjust. Weekly volunteering may not work, but scaling back to once or twice a month may be manageable. If you’re forgiving and flexible, it will mean less disappointment and frustration down the line. It’s also better than completely throwing out a resolution at the first setback.
If there weren’t obstacles to success, it wouldn’t really be a resolution. Knowing what might get in your way can help you be more successful. Challenges might be physical like finding time for a new behavior or emotional, such as fear if you’ve resolved to try something new. Proper planning will prepare you to overcome whatever may stand in your way. For example, if you want to quit smoking, research possible setbacks and how long it usually takes to kick the habit.
It can be easy to set a goal and then forget about it as life gets busy. Keeping track of your progress can help keep you focused on your resolution. You can journal or use an app to follow your fitness or food-based ones. On days when you’re struggling, it can be helplful to look back over how you’ve done and motivate you to keep going.
According to experts, social support is one of the top predictors to keeping a resolution. A goal set as a group may be more likely to succeed since you’re accountable to someone else. Find a friend who is willing to work out with you, or as a family, choose to set aside time for healthy meal planning. You also can find support from a professional like a health coach to help keep you on track and motivated.
Aiming to lose weight or save money may seem like great resolutions. However, the focus is on the ends, not the means. An effective New Year’s resolution should be about building better habits. Sometimes, it’s better to focus on making small changes. Instead of resolving to lose 15 pounds, make a plan to workout every morning. If you are thinking you’d like to save $10,000, work specifically on cutting back on how often you order takeout. These resolutions are actionable and offer strategies to help achieve larger goals.
There are many resolutions commonly made, such as losing weight, eating better or drinking alcohol less. While popular, they may not be right for you. You know your own limits better than anyone. If exercising every day or cutting out alcohol isn’t going to work for you, don’t make it your resolution. To be successful, your goal has to be sustainable. Choose something that can translate into a long term behavior. For example, people may be jumping on a fad diet, but that probably won’t be effective in the long run. Focus on making a change that easily becomes part of your daily routine, like drinking more water or cutting back on added sugar.
You may have started off the year with big plans like losing weight, volunteering more, eating your vegetables, reducing your screen time and spending more time with family. According to experts, that’s too much for a New Year’s resolution. Instead, pick one or two specific goals. This sets you up for success rather than feeling like a failure when you can’t do everything.
Do you set a goal to diet every year, but February always finds you reaching for the junk food again? Mix it up by modifying your usual goal or choosing something different. This helps you avoid falling into the same pitfalls that tripped you up in the past, increasing your chances at success. It also may make your resolutions feel more exciting and engaging, instead of a stale rehash of years past. If healthy eating is what you want, instead of completely revamping your diet, aim to do something like make better choices when planning meals. &
DR. NAMIN is board certified in both Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He specializes in rhinoplasty, facelift, and reconstructive surgery. He enjoys helping patients with cosmetic concerns as well as patients in need of reconstructive surgery after cancer treatment. He practices at Mercy Hospital St. Louis with offices at the Pratt Cancer Center in Creve Coeur and at Clayton-Clarkson in Ballwin. He is part of large practice with partners who specialize in sleep apnea surgery, thyroid and parathyroid surgery, and ear surgery.
JANUARY 15,
Ball 2024 It was a magical evening where
january 15, 2025 next issue february 5
HOME & DESIGN 2025
F18 FEATURED PROPERTY – 7396 Stratford Ave., University City
F22 DESIGN SPOTLIGHT – Southwestern
F30 FROM THE BLOG OF … SCOUT & NIMBLE
F32 MARK YOUR CALENDAR
F34 OFF THE CUFF WITH CLAIBORNE – Jim Montgomery
F36 HOOKED ON BOOKS
F37 QUICK BITES
VP SAINT LOUIS
by stephanie wallace
VP Saint Louis is a local institution in the Lou. For more than 130 years, it has made a mark on the community through events like Fair Saint Louis and its debutante ball every December. The fraternal organization and its members, however, aren’t just focused on tradition. VP Saint Louis is dedicated to making the St. Louis community a better place for everyone who calls it home. To achieve that mission, it created the VP Community Impact Foundation. The nonprofit seeks to reach the underserved through community service, entrepreneurial connection and mentorship.
Volunteerism has always been foundational to VP Saint Louis, and it remains an important component of the work the organization does. The Community Service Initiative (CSI) offers local nonprofits support for projects, such as helping Mission: St. Louis with its Affordable Christmas initiative, painting murals for the Youth & Family Center and installing irrigation systems for Girls Inc. “We’ve impacted more than 30 organizations through hundreds of volunteers providing their time and talent,” VP Community Impact Foundation executive director Wendell Covington Jr. says. “That’s thousands of hours of work from VP Saint Louis members and their families. However, our impact goes beyond community service.”
The foundation further works to support local nonprofits through its board training initiative. The program teaches VP Saint Louis members the skills they need to understand the expectations and aspirations of other philanthropic organizations, so they can make the greatest positive impact possible serving on a board of directors. “We work with executive directors and board chairs to see how we can help organizations reach the next level,” Covington says. “In the past year, we’ve been able to place around 30 members on different boards. For example, if a nonprofit needs someone in accounting or financial management, we can help fill that need. We’re building connections with other organizations to improve outcomes for all.”
The VP Community Impact Foundation works to help its members use their expertise to serve St. Louis. Another facet of this is mentorship opportunities, which connects them with small business owners and entrepreneurs. One of the organization’s biggest successes has been its partnership with Beyond Housing. “We provide the mentors, and it provides the mentees,” Covington says. “The program has had three cohorts, and it’s helped 35 entrepreneurs launch new small businesses in underserved communities. It’s been a huge success. We’ve been able to connect people with the resources to build new skills and relationships that are necessary to flourish.”
The VP Community Impact Foundation is dedicated to building lasting relationships in the community so that it can make a tangible impact. For Covington, that sense of connection is integral to creating a better St. Louis for all. “We’re evolving as a community, and now is the time to build up St. Louis,” he notes. “That means bringing everyone to the table. It’s going to take all of us rolling up our sleeves to disrupt the challenges that lead to hopelessness and helplessness for underrepresented populations. The foundation has accomplished a lot in our first year, and I’m excited to see what 2025 and beyond brings.”
The Queen’s Supper, held at the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch, was a joyful occasion for the friends and families of the young women of the Court of Love and Beauty.
In this, the 139th VP Saint Louis Debutante Ball, Miss Lillian Claire Williams was named the Queen of Love and Beauty. She succeeds retiring queen Miss Madelyn Barbara Pozaric.
6th Special Maid
MISS CHARLOTTE CULVER BITTING
5th Special Maid
MISS MARY ANN KIRKWOOD DANFORTH
Christopher B. Danforth
4th Special Maid
MISS
VP Saint Louis is a fraternal organization focused on service to the community, camaraderie among members and celebrating the entire Saint Louis region. Our mission is to provide a fun, rewarding and diverse organization for members and their families to give back and celebrate all that is great in Saint Louis.
VP Saint Louis’ various civic projects share the common goal of enhancing commerce and generating economic activity in the community, bringing national prominence to the region, and instilling pride in the citizens of Saint Louis.
Each year members and their families contribute thousands of hours of community service through the VP Community Impact Foundation with the single goal of Making Saint Louis a Better Place to Live for All.
• HEALTHIER—DUST-FREE – Removes 100% of contacted dust and germs from your home. Reduces allergy symptoms up to 61%.
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UNIVERSITY CITY
FROM THE HOMEOWNER »
Nested in the University Hill neighborhood, 7396 Stratford Ave. is a home that was made for family. Whether it’s the spacious great room and kitchen, convenient amenities or easy access to parks, restaurants and more, it’s the picture perfect space to gather and spend time together. The current homeowner is offering insight into what makes the property the perfect fit.
by stephanie wallace
What have you enjoyed about the home's location?
We have the best of both worlds! Downtown Clayton is just a short walk away with all of the wonderful shops and restaurants to enjoy, as well as the Clayton Library which our family loves. Flynn Park and Taylor Park are nearby and offer lovely green space to enjoy nature, while still being in the heart of everything.
What are some standout features of the home?
The recently renovated kitchen and open family room are what initially attracted us to the house. We spent the majority of our time as a family there—from celebrating 1st birthdays and holiday gatherings to nightly family dinners. The space provides so much utility, including a huge island with seating, breakfast room area, family room with fireplace and a built-in desk space. Due to the young age of the home, the new homeowner will enjoy amenities such as an attached two-car garage, finished basement with a wine cellar, wiring for surround sound and an irrigation system.
Tell me about the outdoor spaces. We spent a lot of time entertaining on the deck, which flows nicely from the kitchen
and family room. The yard space is good for young kids and pets, and there is an electric pet fence installed, too. We have great memories from hosting parties in our outdoor spaces and being entertained by the kids running around.
How is the home for entertaining?
We hosted a number of family holidays and kids birthdays—both inside and out. The deck gives the main living area great flexibility for additional entertaining space when the weather is nice, and the wine cellar is a great feature to support the events.
What would you most like the next homeowners to know about the property?
Above all else, we have loved raising our young family in this house and neighborhood. We found it to be the perfect amount of space for three young children, and since it is a newer home, it requires less maintenance. We appreciated that during this busy time in our life. Additionally, we loved the close proximity to Clayton, Winslow’s Home and the family friendly parks. It is a truly incredible place! &
by stephanie wallace SOUTHWESTERN
It’s easy to understand the allure of the American Southwest—from the unique beauty of the landscape to vibrant colors of a desert sunset to the rich cultural heritage. Thanks to the Southwestern interior design it's an aesthetic that can be captured in any home, regardless of its geographic location. The style brings beautiful patterns, natural materials and vibrant colors together to transform a space.
Southwestern design gained popularity at the turn of the 20th century. Its defining elements emerged thanks to the variety of people groups that inhabited the region. The art and craftwork of indigenous people from tribes like the Hopi, Navajo and Pueblo were a major inspiration. Spanish colonists brought architectural influence, and ranchers helped develop a focus on animal elements, like leather, cow skulls and hides.
◀ Warm, earthy colors
◀ Stone, leather, wood and natural fibers
◀ White stucco or plaster walls
◀ Bold geometric patterns
◀ Handcrafted decor
◀ Clean-lined furniture
◀ Natural light
◀ Layered woven textures
◀ Exposed wood beams
◀ Desert plants like cacti and succulents
◀ Art inspired by the Southwest landscape or indigenous people
You don’t have to live in the Southwest to embrace Southwestern design, and you don’t have to commit to completely transforming your home. The modern iteration of the style is more refined, mixing transitional elements with more traditional pieces to create a streamlined, livable space. Choose colors inspired by the desert landscape, such as terracotta, sand, clay and sage green. Balance these more subdued hues with bolder accent colors like red or turquoise. Create a sense of spaciousness by embracing natural light through elements like large windows and skylights.
Use a fireplace as a focal point. A staple of Southwestern design, it can serve as a functional element that creates a cozy atmosphere, while also making a bold centerpiece.
Focus on organic materials and rugged textures. This can include stone, hammered metal, wood and woven textiles.
Embrace the culture of the American Southwest. Find appropriate ways to pay homage to indigenous people, such as supporting Native American-owned businesses or using authentic crafts like pottery, baskets and textiles.
Don’t be afraid to be eclectic. Thanks to its bold patterns and mix of textures, Southwestern interior design shares similarities with the boho aesthetic—mix and match to create a unique space.
You don’t have to go overboard to achieve the look. A statement piece like a boldly patterned rug, throw, pillows or wall hanging can effectively transform a room.
526 Sarah Lane Unit #35 | CREVE COEUR
$299,000 | Bedrooms | 2 Full Baths
Berkley Land and Matt Litwack
Land | Litwack & Associates
B: 314.401.0999 | M: 314.374.8832
landlitwack@bhhsall.com
Kenrick Parke Condo | SHREWSBURY 3 Bedrooms | 2 Full and 1 Half Baths
Tommy Espenschied
Espenschied Hermann Group 314-698-3306 | Tommy.Espenschied@bhhsall.com espenschiedhermanngroup.com
625 S Skinker Blvd Unit 103 | SAINT LOUIS
$369,000 | 3 Bedrooms | 3 Full and 1 Half Baths
Rachel Boxdorfer
Boxdorfer Crowley Team 314-691-0538 | rboxdorfer@bhhsall.com RachelandEllen.com
4570 Wabash Avenue | SOUTH CITY
$340,000 | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Full Baths
Rachel Boxdorfer
Boxdorfer Crowley Team 314-691-0538 | rboxdorfer@bhhsall.com RachelandEllen.com
6232 Northwood Ave , #3W | CENTRAL WEST END
$380,000 | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Full Baths
Berkley Land and Matt Litwack
Land | Litwack & Associates
B: 314.401.0999 | M: 314.374.8832
landlitwack@bhhsall.com
10821 Charlton Way | CREVE COEUR
$419,900 | 2 Bedrooms | 3 Full Baths
Diane and Rod Patershuk Patershuk Partners 314-477-7673 | Dpatershuk@bhhsall.com PatershukPartners.com
Alyssa Suntrup GLADYS
Should I buy a house now or wait for interest rates to come down?
If you’re ready for a home and find one that you love, waiting for ideal market conditions could delay achieving your goals. In addition, housing prices will likely continue to rise, negating the advantage of waiting for a lower rate.
What additional steps would you recommend to ensure a successful listing and a seamless transaction through closing?
The seller’s disclosure is crucial for a smooth transaction and ensuring transparency. This is especially important for “as-is” items with no repairs by the seller. Be proactive to address potential issues upfront and foster buyer confidence. I go room by room with the seller to make sure of this.
Megan Schnoebelen Rowe
Megan Rowe & Co. COMPASS REALTY GROUP
With such limited inventory how do we find our dream home?
Megan Rowe & Co excels in St. Louis, combining expertise and a strong network to find dream homes. Joan Schnoebelen and I maintain valuable relationships, connecting clients to amazing properties— often before hitting the market—while
When is a good time to put my house on the market? Is it still seasonal?
My recommendation is to put your house on when you are ready. The market is not as seasonal anymore. You never know when people will need a house, get transferred or have other needs. The period between Christmas and the new year is not the best time, but most any other time will work.
What sets your team apart from other real estate professionals in the area?
Our small but mighty team combines decades of St. Louis expertise, personalized service and proven results. Backed by cutting-edge tools and unmatched brokerage resources, we prioritize client satisfaction, open communication and tailored solutions for a seamless, successful experience.
Aimee Simpson
DIELMANN SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
When is the ideal time to list your house? Now is the perfect opportunity to start prepping your home for the spring market, which often kicks off as early as February. Spring is a prime time to sell because buyers are actively searching, and homes show their best with fresh blooms and warmer weather.
What should I be doing right now if I am planning on coming on the market later
There are two key items before coming on the market: 1) Educating yourself on market conditions, pricing and timing strategies 2) Preparing your property to maximize your buyer pool impact, appeal and effectiveness when you come on the
Carol Butler and Juli-Ann Felsher Butler Felsher Group
GLADYS MANION REAL ESTATE
What is the most advantageous time of the year to sell?
In the current market, we are finding the most advantageous time to sell is when a seller is ready to showcase their home. With the decreased inventory and continued buyer demand, the historical timing trends are not rigid.
Is it a good time to buy in Southwest Florida?
Overall inventory in the Naples area is up 32% from last year and closed sales are down 18%. This combination makes it a great time to look for that second home you always wanted!
With the current low inventory, how are we going to be able to find our dream house? Searching online, working the phones and mailing to desired neighborhoods are ways we find homes for our buyers before they hit the market. With low supply and high demand, it is critical to hire an agent that has both the contacts and experience to help find your “one and only” home!
Should you wait to list your home until the spring market?
No, don’t wait. Why hold off when opportunity is knocking? Listing your home this winter means less competition and more attention from serious buyers who are actively searching now. Make your move while motivated buyers are making theirs!
How will we determine the listing price? Together, we will leverage all available tools to craft the most effective strategy for listing your home. This process will take into account the following key considerations: 1. Comparative market analysis (CMA) 2. Market trends 3. Home-specific features 4.
What is my home worth?
Your home’s worth is a blend of market magic and expert analysis. We have unique and proven strategies that are designed to create excitement and competition, ensuring you get the highest price in the shortest time possible!
What is the best neighborhood in St. Louis? It comes down to what you’re looking for and what your budget allows. St. Louis is filled with diverse architecture, strong community vibes and many small, walkable areas. Our best advice is to tour them all with an experienced local expert and don’t be afraid to ask residents about the area.
#10 TIMELESS ELEGANCE
This living room speaks to winter nights, crackling fireplaces and cozy layers.
#9 A SWEET ESCAPE
Embedded in the Utah mountains, this stunning home was one of our favorites! Immerse yourself in breathtaking views and rustic charm.
#8 THE AFTERNOON ATTIC
Whether you double- tapped for the bold textures, timeless palettes or moments of design envy, each of these posts tells a story of how Scout & Nimble helps bring beauty, comfort, and personality into your home. Let’s revisit the highlights that had you swooning, saving and sharing last year!
This beautiful attic space transformation by @megan.d.miller had us all swooning this year. With the vintage feels and cozy vibes, it’s not one you want to miss!
#7 SUNDAY SAVES - COTTAGE CORE
This home by @wildflowerhome.interiors brings cozy and classic vibes all around. Dive into this beautiful design that transports you right into the cottage of our dreams!
#6 DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT: @WDESIGNCOLLECTIVE
A combination of textures, dark hues and clean lines. This design sets the mood for luxury and relaxation.
#5 THE NANCY MEYERS AESTHETIC
The aesthetic we all know and love: cozy, nostalgic and elegant. These designers captured the essence of Nancy Meyers design.
#4 FLORAL FRENZY
The curb appeal of this home is truly gorgeous. The spring landscaping has us daydreaming of blooming florals and warmer weather all year round.
#3 ENTRYWAY ESCAPE
This entryway had more than just us swooning. From the arched doorway to the curved staircase, it is nothing short of jaw-dropping.
#2 SPRING SHOWERS ALL AROUND
As we daydream of spring, rewind to April and indulge in these picturesque shower scenes. Natural light, earthy elements and breathtaking designs all around.
#1 SCONCES GO BETTER TOGETHER
You know what they say, two is always better than one! Immerse yourself in these beautiful spaces, completed with the addition of stunning sconces. &
Tired of not hitting your goals?
Overwhelmed and not sure what to do?
We have the Blueprint for Success:
•Top Level Training & Coaching
•Listing & Transaction Coordination
•Accountabilty Coaching
•World-Class Operations Team
•In-House Marketing, Photography & Videography
•Full-Time Courier
•Integrated Technology for Lead Management
•Abundance of Leads from 24+ Sources
•Stock Rewards & Health Benefits
•Community Outreach Focus
Schedule a Conversation In a down market, our business was up 12% in 2024.
2/1-2/23
unbound!
Circus Harmony’s performers put a unique spin on fairy tales with flying beasts, hooping princesses, poleclimbing mermaids and more. Shows are on Saturdays and Sundays. City Museum | $20 | 2 p.m. | 314.436.7676 circusharmony.org
2/5-3/2
clyde’s
When a mystic chef issues a challenge to craft the ultimate sandwich, the team of a run-down sandwich joint embark on a spirited culinary quest for second chances. Loretto-Hilton Center | $40 Various showtimes | 314.968.4925 repstl.org
by stephanie wallace
2/7
culture + cocktails
Enjoy a docent-led tour of Currents 124: Crystal Z Campbell as well as a food display and small bites celebrating Filipino cuisine and culture.
Saint Louis Art Museum | $75-$85 | 5:30 p.m. 314.721.0072 | slam.org
2/7-2/23
long day’s journey into night
St. Louis Actors’ Studio presents Eugene O’Neil’s magnum opus. A family in Connecticut grapples with the consequences of each member’s failings while struggling with bitterness and resentments.
The Gaslight Theater | $57-$62 | 3 and 8 p.m.
314.458.2978 | stlas.org
2/8
cupid’s undie run
Join runners across the country to raise money for neurofibromatosis.
The event culminates in a dance party to celebrate.
Ballpark Village | $40 | Noon-4 p.m. my.cupids.org
2/9
heart & nature walk: a love letter laumeier
Celebrate love in all shapes and forms with a tour spotlighting artworks that express the artists’ deep adoration for art and nature.
Laumeier Sculpture Park | Free | Noon 314.615.5278 | laumeiersculpturepark.org
2/13
vintage valentines
Enjoy a retrospective of vintage classroom films that offer helpful advice from the dating world. The evening also includes opportunities to learn about Missouir’s historic power couples, Valentine-related images from the museum’s collections, and activities like writing love stories and crafting valentines. Missouri History Museum | Free | 5-8 p.m. 314.746.4599 | mohistory.org
2/11-2/23
shucked
What do you get when you pair a New York comedy writer with two music superstars from Nashville? A Tony Award-winning farm-tofable musical about the one thing Americans everywhere can’t get enough of: corn.
The Fabulous Fox Theatre | $32-$105 Various showtimes | 314.534.1111 fabulousfox.com
2/14-2/16 to love
Celebrate love with the Saint Louis Ballet. The program features work from Tony Award-winning choreographer Justin Peck, a new ballet from Christopher D’Amboise and a new collaboration between artistic director Gen Horiuchi and TOYA. Kirkwood Performing Arts Center | $42-$72 Various showtimes | 636.537.1998 stlouisballet.org
2/22
double play featuring adam wainwright
Celebrate St. Louis’ love of music and baseball with Americana classics, a special “Casey at the Bat” narration by Joe Buck and performances by Cardinals’ organist Dwayne Hilton and former Cardinals All-Star Adam Wainwright. Stifel Theatre | $45-$110 | 7:30 p.m. 314.499.7600 | stifeltheatre.com
2/27-3/2
(re)build: winter concert
Saint Louis Dance Theatre presents a captivating showcase of dance, spotlighting the dance company’s new levels of artistic excellence and technical integrity. Four unique programs will be presented. COCA | $35-$75 | 2 and 7:30 p.m. 314.338.4058 | saintlouisdancetheatre.org
Jim Montgomery is no stranger to St. Louis hockey. He played centre for the Blues before rejoining the team as an assistant coach from 2020 to 2022. His career has taken him across the country, with positions in Dallas and Boston. Now, he’s back in the Lou—this time as the Blues’ head coach.
WHAT WAS THAT PHONE CALL LIKE FROM THE ST. LOUIS BLUES?
It was incredibly gratifying. When Doug Armstrong wanted to discuss the possibility of me being the head coach of the Blues, I was ready to come as soon as he said it. I was excited about the vision, and I know the players in that locker room are talented and want to be great. As much as I was invested in Boston, it felt like part of a larger plan when this opportunity came. I’m very excited to be back in St. Louis, which is home for my family and myself. All of my closest friends and favorite restaurants are here.
WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED ABOUT YOURSELF AS YOU’VE TRANSITIONED FROM PLACE TO PLACE? I try to take the best things I’ve learned from wherever I’ve been and make them a part of my fiber. Then I share that with the next group of people I’m fortunate to work with.
WHO HAS INSPIRED YOU IN YOUR CAREER?
I’m lucky to have been around so many great people who have impacted my life. I’ve had so many influences in St. Louis. As a player, it was Brett Hull, Kelly Chase, Curtis Joseph, Craig Janney, Basil McRae and Brendan Shanahan. When I was training in St. Louis, it was Scott Mellanby, Chris Pronger, Keith Tkachuk and Al MacInnis. I’ve also made connections with so many great Blues alums, like Rob Ramage and Bruce Affleck. The list goes on and on.
WHAT DO YOU APPRECIATE ABOUT ST. LOUIS NOW THAT YOU’VE BEEN IN OTHER CITIES? No. 1 is the people. Everywhere you go, the people are genuine. They care about the community and their neighbors. That’s why St. Louis has always been home.
YOU’VE GOT A WEEK LEFT ON THE PLANET. WHAT ST. LOUIS RESTAURANTS ARE YOU HITTING ONE MORE TIME?
Cafe Napoli, Annie Gunn’s and Vito’s Pizzeria.
WHAT’S SOMETHING UNEXPECTED YOU FIND FUN ABOUT COACHING?
Getting a collective group to think about a common goal. It’s the driving force that ties a team together.
IF YOU WERE PLAYING ONE MORE GAME, WHO WOULD YOU WANT ON THE ICE WITH YOU?
The goaltender is going to be Curtis Joseph. The defensemen are going to be Barrett Jackman and Al MacInnis. The wingers are going to be Paul Kariya and Brett Hull.
AND WHO IS YOUR COACH?
Scotty Bowman.
WHAT ADVICE HAVE YOU RECEIVED THAT YOU STILL LIVE BY?
As a coach, players accept what you accept. As a player, control what you control.
WHY DO SO MANY BLUES ALUMS FIND THEIR WAY BACK TO ST. LOUIS?
The culture of St. Louis is very similar to that in hockey locker rooms. It’s about what you can do for others more than what others can do for you.
by patty hannum
Desire by
Dennis A. Rolazina
This book is a romance and thriller packed into one. A man visiting New Orleans for a conference gets caught up in a chance encounter on a streetcar and quickly finds himself in a much bigger and more dangerous plot. New Orleans is beautifully captured in this engaging book.
None of This is True by Lisa Jewell
A chance encounter between two women on their birthday turns into a mystery thriller. The two strike up a friendship, which becomes more bizarre and entertaining with every page. I’ve never heard of birthday twins, but if I find mine, I will keep it to myself. It is a book you can’t put down.
PLEASE CONTACT ME AT
Matlock CBS
No Andy Griffth is not back after 30 years!
This new TV series features Kathy Bates as Maddie Matlock, a 75 year-old attorney who is trying to find the person responsible for her daughter’s death. Each week, she gets a little closer while working on a new case. Bates is great at playing the old attorney forced out of retirement in her quest for answers.
Say Nothing Hulu
This nine-part mini series is based on the book by the same name, which I have reviewed previously. It takes place in Northern Ireland during The Troubles and the rise of the IRA fighting for a unified Ireland. It is well worth the time to watch it if you have wondered how one country can remain so divided. I watched the series in two days. It was that interesting..
by stephanie wallace
The Cozy Cider Cabin has returned to Eckert’s Farm in Belleville. The winter pop-up bar offers a mountain-side cabin atmosphere with specialty food and drink.Reservations are $5 per person, with proceeds going to the Belleville Area Humane Society. The Cozy Cider Cabin is open through March 3 on Wednesdays to Sundays. For more information or to make a reservation, visit eckerts.com.
Sando Shack is relocating!
The Japanese-inspired sandwich shop has ceased operations at its Tower Grove Location at 3173 Morgan Ford Road and will reopen sometime this spring in Maplewood at 7376 Manchester Road. Sando Shack got its start as a food truck in 2020 before opening its first brick-and-mortar restaurant in 2022.
St. Louis will soon be home to a new speakeasy. Keep Quiet is a collaboration between Urban Chestnut Brewing Co. and Little Lager, and it is expected to open next month. The concept will be located in the biergarten at Urban Chestnut’s Midtown location at 3229 Washington Ave. The drink program is planned to include 10 to 15 cocktails each month, including twists on classics and experimental offerings.
Alec Schingel’s Robin Restaurant will open soon in Maplewood at 7268 Manchester Road, the former home of Benevolent King. The renowned chef’s first brick-and-mortar restaurant, it will focus on a small but elevated prix fixe menu sourced from the products of local farmers and purveyors. … If you’re feeling sinister, don’t miss Antagonist Cafe, located at 2727 S. 12th St. The sister location to Protagonist Cafe, it serves up signature coffee and pastries with a dark and moody atmosphere— including private booths made from former jail cells. Mac B’s has closed just a few months after opening. Located in the Southwest Garden neighborhood, the restaurant was New Orleans inspired. … After opening at the Cortex last spring, Taqueria Morita has stopped service. The restaurant was created by Take Root Hospitality and started as a pop-up concept at Vicia and Winslow’s Table in 2022.
Global Foods Market is celebrating the one-year anniversary of its cookbook by partnering with Fennel Cooking Studio for a cooking series. Global Cooking for a Cause features local chefs whose recipes are included in the Global Foods Market Cookbook. Participants will learn how to cook the chef’s featured recipes as well as other signature dishes. The initiative supports the International Institute of St. Louis. To reserve a spot visit, fennelstl.com The schedule is:
◀ Jan. 25 - Nathan Wright of Up Late
◀ Feb. 6 - Craig Rivard of Little Fox
◀ Feb. 12 - Nick Bognar of iNDO, Sado and Pavillion &
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