It’s such a welcoming place, and I’ve been able to meet so many wonderful people. For anyone who is hesitant about moving, don’t be. When my grandson stopped by, he thought it was great. Coming from a 20-something, that speaks volumes. — JUDITH SCISSORS “ ”
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IN THE
by stephanie wallace
The nonprofit recently hosted its Minds in Bloom Gala. The event raised an impressive $212,698 to support Miriam’s mission to empower students with learning differences through a specialized educational approach.
united way of greater st. louis
The nonprofit has named Lal Karsanbhai, president and CEO of Emerson, and Andrew Davidson, managing partner for KPMG’s St. Louis Office, as chair and co-chair of its 2025 annual community campaign.
kirkwood high school
The school made an impressive showing at the Missouri DECA State Career Development Conference held in Kansas City. Five students earned All-State recognition, qualifying for the prestigious DECA International Career Development Conference in Orlando, Florida.
chabad youth of chesterfield Local families stepped back to participate in the ancient Passover tradition of matzah-making. Participants of all ages experienced every step of the matzah-making process—from threshing wheat and grinding it with hand-powered millstones to mixing, kneading and baking.
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Celebrating Family & Ser vice Since 1984
Owner Maggie Holtman with her grandchildren
LAL KARSANBHAI ANDREW DAVIDSON
St. Louis Antique Festival
COVER STORY
POWEROFWISHES
MAKE-A-WISH MISSOURI & KANSAS
by stephanie wallace
IN 1980, CHRISTOPHER GREICIUS, an energetic 7-year-old-boy from Arizona, was battling leukemia. He also loved to play policeman and pretend to catch bad guys. On April 29, six members of his community came together to make his dream of becoming a police officer a reality. Little did anyone know that Christopher’s wish would be the beginning of a movement that would transform the lives of hundreds of thousands of seriously ill children in 50 countries through the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
In honor of Christopher’s original wish, every April is World Wish Month. According to Make-A-Wish International, around 1.25 million children are diagnosed with a critical illness each year across the world—that equates to one child every 25 seconds. Since its inception, the nonprofit’s mission has been to grant life-changing wishes to those children. Over the last 45 years, more than 615,000 wishes have been granted worldwide. Going beyond a simple gift or act of generosity, these experiences help families find hope and give recipients the strength to cope with complex medical treatments. One of 59 branches across the country, the local Missouri and Kansas chapter has granted more than 10,350 wishes to kids between the ages of 2 ½ and 18.
The need for wishes in Missouri and Kansas is great. “Currently, there are an estimated 650 children waiting to have their wishes granted in our region, and in St. Louis alone, there are more than 200,” says Caroline Schmidt, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish Missouri & Kansas. Children’s requests often include participating in sports or the arts, experiencing their dream careers and having backyard playgrounds built, but the impact reaches much further than that. Children often want to make the world a better place by sharing their interests, and many of them use their wishes to help others in the community.
Research shows that children who have wishes granted receive much more than a simple act of kindness. The experience also provides an emotional and physical boost that can help them fight their illness and lead to better health outcomes. Make-A-Wish reports that 87% of alumni see their wish as a turning point in their treatment, and 99% of doctors say that wishes help families by relieving stress and offering comfort and inspiration during difficult times. “The power of a wish is transformative and life-changing,” Schmidt says. “Our wishes aren’t just nice experiences. They help children build the strength and find the joy needed to battle their illnesses. The experience doesn’t just impact the child but everyone it touches, including the family, medical team and community.”
To make its mission possible, Make-A-Wish relies on the support of the community. The nonprofit counts on WishMakers—the people who take action to help make children’s wishes become reality through volunteering, donations, fundraising and corporate sponsorships. “WishMakers can do something as simple as help spreading the word—everything has a ripple effect,” Schmidt says. “St. Louis is the type of community that steps up to surround critically ill children with encouragement and strength and brings hope to families during their most challenging times. Without that support to fuel us, granting wishes would not be possible.”
St. Louisans will soon lace up their running shoes in support of Make-A-Wish. The Walk for Wishes presented by Spectrum is May 3 at Energizer Park. The family-friendly event will include a 5K run and one-mile walk along a scenic downtown route. Participants can look forward to pre-race festivities, games, entertainment and the chance to connect with fellow supporters.
“St. Louis CITY SC and downtown St. Louis have provided the opportunity to bring the largest Walk for Wishes in the country to the heart of the city,” Schmidt says. “The driving force behind the event is our Wish families—they bring our mission to life and showcase the impact of a wish. It takes a collective effort to grant life-changing wishes.”
Every dollar raised by the Walk for Wishes will stay in the St. Louis region, helping local children and families. Schmidt is grateful for the support the community continues to show Make-A-Wish. “By supporting our chapter, St. Louisans are supporting their neighbors, helping them find strength and moments of pure joy even under the most difficult circumstances,” she notes.
“The more support Make-Wish-Wish receives, the more wishes we grant and the more lives we can change. It’s a beautiful way to show the incredible generosity, passion and commitment to lifting one another up that defines St. Louis. Working together, we all can be touched by the life-changing impact of a wish.” &
6-YEAR-OLD LEUKEMIA PATIENT KATHERINE WISHED FOR A FROZEN-THEMED ROOM MAKEOVER.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF MAKE-A-WISH MISSOURI & KANSAS
7-YEAR-OLD BRAIN TUMOR PATIENT JAMES WISHED TO HAVE A PIRATE ADVENTURE.
downtown
It’s likely there’s a special day dedicated to your favorite animal, real or imagined. Usually, Google alerts us to these observations with a little graphic in the right-hand side of the search field. April 8 was Pygmy Hippo Day and April 9 was Unicorn Day. Oftentimes, however, these notices earn a “meh” or “big whoop” heard all the way around the laptop on my desk. But one such observation worthy of notice because we have young circus performers throughout our fair city was April 19: World Circus Day. This event recognizes and promotes the art and joy of circus, paying tribute to circus artists and workers while highlighting the cultural and social importance of this artistic tradition. To celebrate, Circus Harmony offered free hula hoop instruction with admission to City Museum. Missed it? Well, registration is open for one of the coolest camps in town. Circus Harmony’s Summer Performance Camps at City Museum give children ages 8 to 16 the opportunity to run away and join the circus, but still be home for dinner! Campers learn actual circus skills the first week of each two-week session, and the second week, they get to perform in an actual circus show. While learning to flip, fly and fling, they are also learning important life
skills like focus, persistence and teamwork. Alumni from Circus Harmony have gone on to perform with circuses around the world, including the world-renowned Cirque du Soleil … and it may have started at circus summer camp in the StL. For more information or to register go to circusharmony.org/classes.
delmar loop
The Race For Reconciliation is a 5K run/walk with the goal of promoting racial unity in St. Louis. The race has been held on Delmar to bring the spirit of racial harmony to the ‘Delmar divide,’ the symbolic north-south line of racial and socioeconomic separation in the city. In part, the race acknowledges those differences, while the day itself is dedicated to highlighting the hopeful collaboration that is helping make the divide fade into our history. To that end, the timing of the event is particularly special: It kicks off the Delmar Loop Juneteenth Celebration on June 14 at 8:30 a.m. This will be meaningful for participants of all paces, as there is a one-mile course option as well. Race For Reconciliation is a hybrid event with in-person and virtual participation options. If you register as a virtual participant, you may complete your 5K run wherever and whenever works for you—you can complete your 5K all at once or break it up into shorter segments. Join all participants in building cooperation, one step at a time. Immediately following the race will be a vendor fair, music and several family-friendly activities to enjoy. There is a call for volunteers, who—for tasks that range from manning watering stations to setup and teardown—will receive a commemorative race T-shirt. Event organizers are accepting applications from food trucks, local businesses and community organizations. Vendors will have access to hundreds of participants and spectators, providing an excellent opportunity for promotion and engagement. For more information or to register, visit stlr4r.com.
the metro
It may almost be about time to Go Crazy, Folks! Not to count our chickens before they hatch, of course, but the St. Louis Blues recently managed 12 wins in a row, a franchise record, before falling to the Winnipeg Jets on April 7. That may have been the same day that a neighbor’s replica of the team mascot finally fell over on the sidewalk. I haven’t checked back, but it may be upright again since their next game, a win over the Edmonton Oilers. Oh, poor Canada! Thirteen wins in 14 games puts our hometown skaters in excellent position leading into the playoff season. Everybody in the StL was a Blues fan after June 12, 2019. Even the sculpture of a boy and girl honoring the American flag outside Ladue City Hall (pictured) showed their true colors when the Blues won the championship in seven games against the mighty Boston Bruins and the coveted Stanley Cup toured the Lou for weeks afterward. Everybody seemed to want a selfie with it. If that wasn’t possible, the Cup became the profile pic on the Facebook pages of many rabid fans, even those with all their original front teeth. Some may never have changed it back to a pic of their actual faces—or maybe they just put the Cup back up in fervent hopes for another furious skate at the NHL championship. It was the first Stanley Cup for our boys in franchise history.
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.
u. city
The best athletes need coaches. Dorothy Hamill, an Olympic gold medalist in figure skating, had a coach. Some coaches are larger than life, like Vince Lombardi of the Green Bay Packers, who won the first two Super Bowls and had the winner’s trophy named after him. Public speakers need coaching, too, which is where Fred Miller comes in, and why SLU and corporations like Mastercard and Centene have turned to him for his expertise. After graduating from U. City High and Mizzou, Miller started a corporate career with Procter & Gamble, and out of curiosity took in some of the motivational speakers who’d appear at the Arena: Zig Ziglar, Les Brown, Tony Robbins. He also joined Toastmasters. This was about 30 years ago, when Miller also realized he wasn’t cut out to retire from corporate life and get a gold watch after 40 years. He set out on his own. Many people, when faced with an opportunity to speak, suffer a crisis of self-confidence: They feel like an impostor or recall a time from long ago when a presentation didn’t go quite right. But we’re all experts at something, and each of us has life experiences that we can share as stories. Perhaps the presentation or speech isn’t memorable as a whole, but a story within it is compelling. “That goes straight to ‘the hard drive’,” Miller emphasizes. Go easy on the overheads; pictures are more helpful than straight text. “Nobody’s there to hear you read your presentation,” he says.
IT’S A GREAT TIME TO SELL!
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Fred Miller
Dress nicely, but not so formally that you seem stiff. Keep it simple and casual, for the sake of the audience and yours as well. “Don’t try to impress them with things they won’t understand. Avoid buzzwords, acronyms and technospeak.” The fastest way to lose an audience is to sound smart. For one thing, it’s boring. Move the lectern to one side, or step away from it. And avoid distractions. If you use props or visual aids, put them away once they’ve served their purpose. (The lectern may have room inside.) “We really can’t multitask,” Miller points out. For example, TV shows that have a news ticker running along the bottom of the screen defeat the main purpose, as does an overhead screen left illuminated once the speaker has already moved on to another subject. Miller’s first book, No Sweat Public Speaking, was published in 2011, and he followed it up with No Sweat! Elevator Speech, both available on Amazon. Take questions perhaps several times before you close, not afterward—but don’t ask, “Are there any questions?” Instead, ask, “What questions do you have?” All these little things make a world of difference, such that just one “you know” that slips in may be overlooked. In essence, says Miller, “Speaking opportunities are business, career and leadership opportunities!” Want to know more about how to polish a presentation with panache—and carry yourself with cool confidence? Visit nosweatpublicspeaking.com. &
off the wall
Artist Dominic Chambers has created a new mural exploring the legacy of the Underground Railroad and its significance in the St. Louis region. The new public artwork is located on the Walls Off Washington at Saint Louis University’s Searls Hall. It was created in collaboration with the university, the Kranzberg Arts Foundation and the St. Louis Literary Award program.
The Delmar Loop is bringing back its Taco Crawl for Cinco de Mayo. For $35, attendees will receive five taco tickets and one margarita ticket, redeemable at participating restaurants. The taco crawl offers a diverse culinary experience, including traditional Mexican flavors and innovative fusion tacos. Guests are invited to conclude the evening with an after-party at Moonrise Hotel.
Celebrate the cultural heritage of Greece, the Balkans and the Mediterranean with classical guitarist Mak Grgic and violinist Curtis Stewart. Presented by St. Louis Classical Guitar, the duo will perform at 7:30pm on May 3 at the 560 Music Center's Pillsbury Theatre. A public master class with Grgic and Stewert will take place May 4 at Salem United Methodist Church. For tickets and more information, visit stlclassicalguitar.org.
☛ CALLING ALL ARTISTS
It’s not too late to participate in Prism Theatre Company’s “Festival of New Works Spotlight On…HOPE.” The theatrical company is looking for submissions related to the theme of hope from local playwrights and visual and fine artists. Submissions are open through June 1. To turn in a work or for questions, email prismtheatrecompany@gmail.com.
The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis (CAM) and the Gateway Foundation are looking for artists for the Great Rivers Biennial 2026. This initiative supports emerging and mid-career artists in the region. Artists chosen will receive an honorarium of $25,000, an exhibition on view at CAM and recognition from esteemed jurors. Applications are due June 1. For more information on eligibility and how to apply, visit camstl.org/grb.
Music lovers, mark your calendars! The Missouri Botanical Garden has announced the lineup for this year’s Whitaker Music Festival. The 10-week lineup of free Wednesday evening concerts showcases St. Louis’ rich and diverse music scene. Free admission entry begins at 5 p.m., and live music will begin at 7 p.m. For more information, please visit mobot.org/whitaker.
5/ 28
Vince Martin Band
6/4
Manos PanAmerica
6/11
5 Star Roscoe
6/18
Steve Ewing Band
6/25
Funky Butts Brass Band
6/2
Saint Chuck
7/9
Jig Jam
7/16
Dawn Weber & Good Company
7/23
Tele-Starr
7/30
Karla Harris Quintet
JOIN THE FIESTA
CURTIS STEWART MAK GRGIC
THE STORY OF JACK & JACK & JACK
BY PATTY HANNUM L L
WE’VE ALL SEEN THE LITTLE PLAQUES ON PARK BENCHES, BUT DO YOU READ THEM?
You know, the ones placed as a tribute or memorial to a loved one. You probably think how nice it is and keep going. But Jack Ciapciak, a 32-year-old New York based television writer, thought it was a great way to ask his boyfriend, Jack Lorentzen, to marry him. The bench was by their apartment near the Hudson River. So, on went the plaque: “Jack, will you marry me? Love Jack.”
The two Jacks were getting married, their families were thrilled, and a date was chosen—time to begin the next chapter! Unfortunately, while they were in St. Louis over Christmas, the unthinkable happened: Jack Lorentzen died. I think the world stopped that day. How could this happen? As a friend of the family, dropping off a lasagna was not going to cut it. But then again, could I say or do anything to bring comfort to their families?
Jack Ciapciak and his family pulled together a celebration of life to honor Jack Lorentzen in St. Louis. And to be honest, life moved forward for all of us—except for the families. Jack Ciapciak started sharing his thoughts on TikTok about his life with Jack. People were moved by their story, and it quickly went viral, having been shared with more than 28 million people. I wanted a chance to write about their story because while it may be especially sad, it’s also very beautiful. So, Jack agreed to talk to a nosy friend.
WAS THERE ANY DOUBT JACK MIGHT SAY NO?
We’d been together for almost seven years and lived together for six. Thankfully, I was confident he was committed and would say yes! We had a conversation about six months prior where I told him I wanted to be the one to propose, and he agreed. So, he knew it was coming, but not when or how!
IS IT TRUE YOU WERE SET UP BY TWO WOMEN NAMED KATE?
Yes! My friend from St. Louis, Kate Rouse, attended Lehigh University with Jack. After college, Kate and I were both living in New York, and she brought a friend from Lehigh named Kate Novick to my 23rd birthday party. Kate Novick was close with Jack and mentioned him to me that night. They gave him my number, and a week later, we went on our first date!
WHEN DID YOU REALIZE YOUR VIDEOS WERE GOING VIRAL?
I was in London with a friend and put up the post about the bench before going to bed. I woke up the next morning and saw my phone was blowing up. That’s when I knew!
DO YOU MIND IF RANDOM PEOPLE SIT ON THE BENCH?
I love it more than anything! The fact that so many people are taking time out of their lives to visit the bench and honor Jack means so much to me. It’s been so comforting and has truly made me feel less alone in my grief.
WHAT DO YOU WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT JACK?
That he lived life to the fullest. He didn’t waste a second. Looking back, it’s as if he knew his time on earth would be short because he made the most of every day. Life was an adventure by his side, and I’m doing my best to honor him by living how he did and trying to make the most of each day.
YOU WERE ON THE DREW BARRYMORE SHOW WHEN YOU REVEALED THE PERMANENT PLAQUE TO HONOR JACK. IT FEATURES A QUOTE FROM HER MOVIE NEVER BEEN KISSED: “FIND OUT WHO YOU ARE AND TRY NOT TO BE AFRAID OF IT.” FIRST, DID DREW REALLY GET THAT TATTOOED ON HER ARM? SECOND, IS SHE AS ADORABLE IN PERSON AS SHE COMES ACROSS ON TELEVISION?
Yes! She was already planning to get a tattoo of the word “time” on her arm, but when she spoke to me and heard how Jack lived his life, she asked if she could dedicate the tattoo to him. It was unbelievable. She’s the real deal. So genuine and warm. Being with her reminded me of Jack. Like him, her presence felt like a warm hug!
Follow Jack C. on TikTok or Instagram where he continues to talk about Jack L. and the lives we are all so fortunate to have. Peace my Peeps.
JACK LORENTZEN AND JACK CIAPCIAK
EXCELLENT INNOVATIVE TRANSFORMATIVE TRADITIONAL
Modern Families
BY STEPHANIE WALLACE
Parenting today is very different from how it was even 10 years ago. Changes in technology, evolving priorities and busier schedules have all impacted the way families engage with each other. T&S’ Parent Trap columnist, Dr. Tim Jordan, is tackling the changing landscape of parenthood in Keeping Your Family Grounded. The book is a revised edition, featuring updates and additions to help the families of today.
Why did you decide to update Keeping Your Family Grounded?
I first wrote it 20 years ago. Even then, I felt like things were speeding up, families were getting busier and busier, and everyone was feeling a little less grounded. Fast forward two decades, and those pressures have only increased thanks to technology, social media and other changes. There is even more disrupting the equilibrium of kids and families.
What was the process of rewriting the book like?
My daughter-in-law helped with the editing, and we found all sorts of expressions and elements that have already become dated—including references to things like books on tape! It was fun to see how technology and language have changed in so many ways in just 20 years. The edits, however, weren’t just updating the language for modern sensibilities. The way families are living is very different. I started adding new chapters to address these changes.
What are some of the most common problems you see for modern families?
One of the things I focus on is “beginning with the end in mind.” The phrase may sound familiar because it’s one of the points in Stephen Covery’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. I always encourage parents to visualize their kids when they’re 30 years old and make a list of the qualities they’d like them to have. Most often we hear things like honest, fulfilled and happy, but after having performed this exercise in 17 countries, we’ve never had a parent mention college degrees or sports championships. Yet, these are the areas where so many parents focus their energy while their children are growing up.
Why has this shift in focus happened?
I think it has to do with “keeping up with the Jones.” The origin of that phrase has to do with acquiring material things in post-World War II society. Did the neighbors get a washing machine? We need one now. Today, most people have stuff, so that drive from comparison has redirected to how busy the neighbors are, especially the kids. Parents look at what the classes, camps, sports and more that their friends’ kids are doing and develop a fear that their own children are falling behind. That drives them to sign their kids up for more activities or stack their schedule with A.P. classes.
Have you seen the impact of this pressure in your work as a counselor?
The kids that I counsel are more stressed out than ever. Many girls come to my practice already having been diagnosed with anxiety disorders, but I think those diagnoses often are not deserved. Stressful things are going to happen—sometimes, kids are going to fight with friends, fail tests and not make the team. It’s part of life. However, we aren’t teaching youth how to reflect on their thoughts and feelings. Quiet time for personal introspection is replaced with more activities or time spent on social media. Negative feelings are pushed down until they become overwhelming.
Do you have any advice for how to focus on what’s important?
It all comes back to beginning with the end in mind. If you take the time upfront to determine what you value as a family, that’s going to guide your decisions. If your goal is to spend more quality time together, don’t take on the extra activity when the opportunity pops up. Follow your children’s lead, let them explore different interests, and offer an offramp if they get tired of something. Don’t forget the importance of unstructured, unsupervised playtime—it’s what kids are supposed to do.
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Lutheran Schools offer excellent, innovative, traditional and transformative Christian education.
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9. Make-A-Wish Missouri & Kansas
Wish Makers wanted! St. Louis area children facing critical illnesses need volunteers like you. Will you join our mission to make life-changing wishes come true?
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Around Town
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14. St. Louis Antique Festival
Find yourself stepping back in time while attending the St. Louis Antique Festival on April 26 and 27 at the Belle Clair Fairgrounds. The event features quality dealers in a climate controlled building. Admission is $6, and parking is free.
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photos courtesy of independence center
The event brings together St. Louis executives and professional dancers to raise funds in a dazzling dance competition. The fundraiser featured a panel of special guest judges who evaluated the performances, as well as an opportunity for the audience to vote for their favorite dancers. Attendees enjoyed entertainment, fine dining and dance performances—all for the worthy cause of supporting adults with severe and persistent mental illnesses.
RON DAUGHERTY
DAMON ARNOLD
DAN AND LISA GUIRL
JULIAN AND EILEEN CARR. MARY SIGURSON
MARK AND KELLY BULANDA, TRISH HOLMES
ROSSMAN SCHOOL rossman royale casino
night
by bill barrett
The Rossman Fun-Raiser is a biennial event that seeks to bring the parent and alumni communities together for a fun, relaxed, casual evening, while also raising funds to support Rossman’s curricular goals and special projects approved by the administration. Guests enjoyed cocktails, dinner and casino games. guests: Head of school Elizabeth Zurlinden; event chairs Courtney Goodman, Courtney Proctor, Nima Rothmel, Jessica Sandhu
DR. SHEPHALI AND ALEX WULFF
JULIE AND RUSSELL GALL
JESSICA AND GERRED KNOPF, QIAN WANG, ALEX WEBER
LYNN AND PAUL TRELSTAD
MICHELLE AND DR. MAZ MOSHIRI
MIKE AND SARAH HORSTMEYER
MOLLY SUMNER, COURTNEY GOODMAN, JESSICA SANDHU, COURTNEY PROCTOR, NIMA ROTHMEL
Celebrating St. Louis 2 25 seasons:
Festival Shakes peare
By Stephanie Wallace
o be or not to be—that was never the question for the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival. Since 2001, the nonprofit has brought world-class productions of the Bard’s most famous works to St. Louis. This summer, the festival will launch its 25th season. To learn more about what’s on the horizon for the theatrical company, T&S reached out to producing artistic director Tom Ridgely.
Where did the idea for the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival come from?
The original Shakespeare in the Park was in New York City, but the St. Louis’ festival was directly inspired by the one in Kansas City. R. Crosby Kemper III thought free Shakespeare performances would benefit St. Louis, and development of the festival began in 1997. The fiirst season was held in Forest Park in 2001 with a two-week production of Romeo & Juliet
Why is it important for St. Louis to have a cultural resource like the festival?
There are fewer and fewer moments that bring together people from all corners of St. Louis. There is something really special about these stories. They have entertained and moved people for more than 400 years. Everyone knows Romeo & Juliet and Hamlet—they are part of our global culture. That is the great thing about Shakespeare as an artist. No other creator has become more pervasive. His words connect us all when so many forces seem to be unraveling the ties that bind.
How has the festival grown since its first season?
St. Louis Shakespeare has grown into a year-round organization with performances in dozens of locations in St. Louis. Along with a production in Shakespeare Glen in Forest Park, we also have a touring company that presents shows in public parks around St. Louis. It brings Shakespeare to neighborhoods and communities that don’t often have access to these kinds of arts experiences. The Shakespeare
in the Streets program allows communities to tell their own stories and history through the adaptation of a Shakespeare play. We’ve also begun investing in new works and creative talent through the Confluence Regional Writers Project, which was created in 2018.
What are some highlights from the festival’s past seasons?
The fiirst year was a big highlight. They didn’t know if people were going to show up or how the show was going to turn out. That fiirst year, 33,000 people came to see Romeo & Juliet, and the show was beautiful. It was a really promising right foot to start on. Another highlight was André De Shields coming to St. Louis to play King Lear in 2021. He’s an incredible artist, and the response from the community was great. We were still dealing with the pandemic, and live events were only starting to come back. The reservations for the performances were booked in minutes after they were listed. Everyone was excited.
How important is community support to the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival?
Community support means everything. Most theatrical companies are selling tickets as part of their annual budget, but almost all of our productions are free. We make about 10% of our funding through tickets; for the other 90%, we rely on the support of community partners. It is our life blood. We do what we do for St. Louis, so it’s really wonderful to feel that it’s appreciated.
What can people look forward to for the 25th season?
We have a new partnership with the Saint Louis Zoo. We’re doing a full-scale production called Romeo & Zooliet. It’s the fiirst time something like this has been tried in a zoo. It will feature incredible life-sized puppets created by the same artist who worked on The Lion King and Frozen on Broadway. It’s a very fun family-friendly introduction to Shakespeare. The Shakespeare the Park show is going to be Hamlet. It’s a fresh take set in mid-20th century New York, and the company we’ve brought together is incredibly talented. The touring show will be Tre’von Griffith’s afro-futurist take on A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and the neighborhood for Shakespeare in the Streets is East St. Louis.
What is next for the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival?
There is so much we’re looking forward to. We’d love to bring the festival to a second park so we can extend our season into the spring or fall. We’d also love to fiind an artistic home where people can visit and feel like they’re at the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival. We’re also looking for more ways to serve the community. The festival has gotten involved with Sumner High School, the oldest Black high school west of the Mississippi. We’ve helped develop a multi-year, in-school arts residency at the school. The Confluence program has commissioned 19 plays since it was developed, and we’re looking forward to working with more regional writers. Continuing to serve St. Louis is our biggest hope for the future. For more information, visit stlshakes.org. &
Photos courtesy of St. Louis Shakespeare Festival
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NONPROFI T
CROWN CENTER FOR SENIOR LIVING
TELL US ABOUT YOUR NONPROFIT
For more than 50 years, Crown Center for Senior Living has been a valued community resource focused on serving the local aging population of all income levels, providing top-notch living, high-quality programming and critical social services that enable residents to lead active, independent lives through meaningful engagement and social connections.
Crown Center was founded on a philosophy consistent with Jewish values. Today, 175 apartments serve as home to seniors from a variety of cultures, including a significant Jewish and immigrant population.
With a focus on enriching the lives of its residents and area seniors, Crown Center offers a variety of programs such as art and fitness classes, educational workshops and cultural outings as well as opportunities to engage with Friday morning coffee gatherings or volunteering at the welcome desk. These offerings provide seniors with a sense of community that transcends diversity, provides a sense of belonging and purpose and enhances
their well-being.
Crown Center is also recognized as a valued local social services agency that offers a team of dedicated social workers committed to supporting residents as they navigate the complexities of aging. This includes case management, counseling, crisis intervention, benefits access, facilitating connections with community resources and a Kosher Meals on Wheels program.
Crown Center is proud of its holistic approach to case management. According to Rachel Hensold, client services director, “Our goal is to foster a culture of collaboration and consultation. We are here to address our clients’ needs and to serve as a resource that will listen to and truly advocate for them.”
At its core, Crown Center is focused on treating all seniors, regardless of financial circumstances, with dignity and respect, and to deliver on its vision to be “a vibrant and engaged community in which all seniors thrive.”
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Crown Center is currently planning a Phase Two expansion. Phase One, completed in 2023,
included the construction of a 52-unit apartment building and a 12,500-square-foot community center, the Staenberg Commons. Phase Two is set to begin this summer and will include the construction of a new 68-unit apartment building, renovations to 118 existing apartments and various enhancements to the Circle@Crown Cafe. Once completed, Crown Center will offer a total of 238 affordable residences for seniors in the area.
This expansion will be funded through Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and $4.5 million in philanthropic support. To meet this fundraising goal, Crown has launched the “A Place to Call Home” campaign, chaired by Darryl and Lauren Sagel. A limited number of Missouri State Tax Credits will also be available to eligible donors, enabling them to maximize their contribution to Crown Center.
To support Crown Center and its mission of serving local seniors, contact Andy Thorp, executive director, at athorp@crowncenterstl. org or call 314.991.2055. More information about Crown Center for Senior Living can be found at crowncenterstl.org.
Honor Jewish values and tradition; Provide affordable, high-quality living and services to enable residents to flourish independently; and Create inspiring programming to enable both residents and community seniors to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.
Where St. Louis Seniors
Explore the World
When They Live at Home
From day trips to international adventures, we love to explore! Our communities enjoy excursions to Missouri’s wineries, Canada’s mountaintops, and Iceland’s glaciers. As a Friendship Village member, you can join the fun while living at home!
Adventure awaits! Learn about our memberships!
Friendship Village Sunset Hills: 314-270-7833
Friendship Village Chesterfield: 636-733-0162
Friendship Village offers independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing and rehabilitation, home care, and hospice services.
COVER STORY
LIFE LIVED WELL
EVERTRUE
by stephanie wallace
BY 2030, ONE IN FIVE AMERICANS WILL BE OVER THE AGE OF 65. For more than 165 years, Lutheran Senior Services has served older adults throughout the St. Louis region and beyond. The organization is the eleventh largest nonprofit provider of aging services in the country. It offers a full spectrum of care to make sure seniors can live life according to their own terms. To reflect the way it has continued to evolve to meet the needs of the growing population it serves, the nonprofit recently rebranded itself as EverTrue. The change reflects its continued dedication to providing compassionate, trusted and world-class care to older adults.
The new name is based on the nonprofit’s position as a continued leader in senior services as well its desire to expand its reach. “Lutheran Senior Services has such a history and legacy, especially in St. Louis where we’re headquartered, so the decision to rebrand was not made lightly,” notes Annmarie Wallis, vice president of marketing and communications for EverTrue. “EverTrue embodies our steadfast commitment to our faith, our mission of helping older adults live life to the fullest and the promise to our residents and team members to continue providing trusted, top quality services that help shape lives with joy, purpose and fulfillment.”
Along with the switch to EverTrue, the nonprofit also has a new tagline: Life According to You. Wallis notes that it reflects the organization’s approach to caring for older adults. “We look at each person and see the individual— all of the unique qualities that make them who they are, such as their passion and purpose,” she says. “Our goal is to provide them with choice and control through our services and offerings. We’re walking alongside each person in their unique aging journey.”
The EverTrue brand allows the organization to place its programs under one name. While the nonprofit remains
Country, Breeze Park in Weldon Spring, Meramec Bluffs in Ballwin, Laclede Groves in Webster Groves and Meridian Village in Glen Carbon, Illinois. Mason Pointe is currently undergoing an expansion, which will offer additional amenities and add 75 new independent living apartments.
Along with providing world-class communities, EverTrue also helps seniors age in place if that is their goal. It recently expanded its Anywhere Care program, previously known as Home & Community-Based
Services. The program provides a spectrum of services such as in-home medical care, professional therapy, help with chores and other support. “One senior might be looking for a community to have more opportunities to socialize while another might want to find ways to age in place” Wallis notes. “Everyone has different needs, but we’re here to help them all live a vibrant life.”
As a faith-based nonprofit, EverTrue relies on the support of the community to make its services accessible to all older adults, including affordable housing options for seniors living on limited income. The organization partners with both individuals and corporations to make its mission possible. “We care deeply about not only the people we serve but the broader community as well,” Wallis says. “One of our great aspirations is to see St. Louis as a place where everyone can age well with purpose and fulfillment. We’re grateful for the community partners who support us in that vision.”
The transition to EverTrue has been an exciting one for Lutheran Senior Services. Wallis notes that the change serves as a reflection of the organization’s aspirations moving forward. “We serve a population that has given so much to our community and country—they all deserve the ability to age well with compassionate care they can trust,” she says. “Everything we do is to continue to uplift that mission, including our decision to rebrand. We’re excited for what the future holds as EverTrue. It’s a name that will take us into the next 165 years and beyond.” &
EVERTRUE ALLOWS OLDER ADULTS TO ENJOY A VIBRANT LIFE.
MASON POINTE’S NEW EXPANSION.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF EVERTRUE
Premier Memory Care in St. Louis
Meet Me Where I Am... at Lilac Trace
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.
SENIOR-STYLE LIVING
SENIOR
ABERDEEN
HEIGHTS SENIOR LIVING
Discover vibrant retirement at Aberdeen Heights, where we handle the details, giving you the freedom to enjoy lifelong learning events like wine tastings and more. Experience more freedom and fun—schedule your tour today!
575 Couch Ave.
314.470.4863
aberdeenseniorliving.com
ACCESSIBLE
HOME HEALTH CARE OF ST. LOUIS
Our clients include seniors who choose to age in place. Our compassionate experienced caregivers follow individual plans for each client. Services include dressing, bathing, meal preparation, transferring, medication reminders, light housekeeping and transport.
Pictured: Owners Andy Schenck and Lynn Schenck 443 N. New Ballas Road, Ste. 231 314.738.9979
accessiblestl@ahhcglobal.com
EVERTRUE
Building on 165 years of providing world-class services and care for older adults, Lutheran Senior Services is evolving to meet the future as EverTrue. Same faith-based mission. Same people. Learn about life according to you at evertrueliving.org. 314.968.9313 evertrueliving.org
FRIENDSHIP VILLAGE SENIOR SERVICES
Where St. Louis seniors enjoy the outdoors when they live at home. Our beautifully-landscaped campuses are the perfect setting for enjoying the warmer weather. As a member of Friendship Village, you can enjoy active and social outdoor activities, even while living at home! Learn about membership opportunities.
15201 Olive Blvd. | 636.898.8500
12563 Village Circle Drive | 314.270.7700 fvstl.com
THE GATESWORTH
Spring has arrived, and we’re sprucing-up our outdoor spaces at The Gatesworth! From blooming gardens to cozy seating areas, we’re creating beautiful, welcoming spots for our residents to relax, connect and enjoy the season. One McKnight Place 314.907.0678 thegatesworth.com
THE GRANDE SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITIES
The Grande Senior Living offers three convenient assisted living and memory care communities in the St. Louis area. Visit bridgeseniorliving.com to find the perfect fit for you or your loved one. bridgeseniorliving.com SPECIAL
DR. NAMIN is board certified in both Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He specializes in rhinoplasty, sinus surgery, facial rejuvenation, and cancer reconstruction. 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.
Focus On: Parkinson’s Disease
BY STEPHANIE WALLACE
April is National Parkinson’s Awareness month and according to the American Parkinson’s Disease Association, a new diagnosis occurs every six minutes in the United States, making research into causes and treatment critical. T&S is spotlighting the warning signs and causes of the disease.
WHAT IS PARKINSON’S DISEASE?
Parkinson’s is a progressive disorder that impacts the nervous system. It predominantly affects dopamine-producing neurons in a part of the brain known as the substantia nigra. Neurons slowly break down and die, resulting in symptoms like uncontrolled or unintentional movements, such as shaking, stiffness and difficulty with balance and coordination. As the disease progresses, it can lead to difficulty walking and talking, and patients can develop mental and behavioral changes.
KNOWN RISK FACTORS
The cause of Parkinson’s is still unknown. Research indicates that both genetic and environmental factors could play a part. About 15% of people with Parkinson’s have a relative with the disease. However, that doesn’t necessarily point to a genetic cause. It could be a reflection of exposure to similar environmental factors. It’s believed that around 10% of cases are inherited. Research has uncovered several gene mutations linked to the disease. The most common known genetic cause is mutation of the GBA gene. However, the increased risk that people with the mutation will develop Parkinson’s is less than 10%.
One known risk factor is age. Most people with Parkinson’s are over the age of 60. However, it can impact younger people. Between 10% and 20% of cases are considered early onset, meaning they manifest in individuals between the ages of 21 and 50. In early onset Parkinson’s, the progress of the disease is often slower, but the symptoms are the same. Due to the rarity of cases among younger people, it is often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.
Parkinson’s By The Numbers
Around 1 MILLION people in the U.S. are living with Parkinson’s. That number is expected to rise to 1.2 MILLION by 2030.
DIAGNOSING
PARKINSON’S
A Parkinson’s diagnosis is traditionally done by a physician evaluating symptoms, including looking for core motor disorders of the disease like slowness, rigidity and tremors. While that evaluation is usually enough to make a diagnosis, if more information is required, there may be a DaTscan. This imaging test shows if there has been a loss of dopamine nerve endings in a specific area of the brain called the striatum, which is a hallmark of Parkinson’s. Newer ways of testing for the disease include two biomarker tests. One looks at cerebral spinal fluid, and the other requires skin biopsies. A way to identify Parkinson’s through a blood test not available, but is currently being researched.
More than 10 MILLION people worldwide are living with the disease.
Approximately 90,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson’s each year.
COMMON SYMPTOMS
The American Parkinson’s Foundation suggests people learn to look out for 10 early signs of Parkinson’s disease.
Tremors: Tremors while at rest also are a common early sign of Parkinson’s. It usually begins in a limb, most often the hand or fingers.
Smaller handwriting: Known as micrographia, abnormally small or cramped handwriting is an acquired disorder that is associated with Parkinson’s.
Reduced sense of smell: Difficulty smelling foods like dill pickles, bananas and licorice are associated with the disease.
Trouble sleeping: Research has shown that people with Parkinson’s average around just more than five hours of sleep a night, and throughout the night, they wake up twice as much as people their age who don’t have the disease.
Difficulty moving or walking: Bradykinesia is a slowness of movement that is one of the most common manifestations of Parkinson’s. Your steps may become shorter when you walk or drag and shuffle your feet. You may also experience stiffness in your shoulders or hips.
Constipation: If you strain to move your bowels regularly, it can be an early sign of Parkinson’s. However, diet, medication and other factors also can cause constipation. Consult your physician to see if you can determine the cause.
Softer speech: The disease is associated with soft, breathy or hoarse speech. If people are struggling to hear you, it could be a warning sign.
Masked facial expressions: “Masked faces” refer to diminished facial expressions that are commonly associated with Parkinson’s. Individuals with the disease can often look expressionless or upset, even when they are not in a bad mood.
Dizziness or fainting: Feeling dizzy or fainting is a sign of low blood pressure, which is linked to Parkinson’s. The disease also is associated with a loss of balance that can lead to falls.
Stooping or hunching: Impaired posture is a common side effect. Muscle stiffness also can occur in any part of the body, which can limit your range of motion. &
Men are 1.5 TIMES MORE LIKELY to have Parkinson’s than women.
The combined direct and indirect cost of Parkinson’s is estimated to be nearly $52 BILLION per year in the U.S.
FROM THE HOMEOWNER »
Harriet Felman knows a thing or two about glamour. Her career brought her into contact with stars like Debbie Reynolds and Johnny Cash, and for decades, she called the penthouse unit at The Plaza in Clayton home. The palatial residence’s 360-degree panorama views showcase the city at its finest, and it offers all the features and amenities expected of luxury living.
T&S HOME
by stephanie wallace
Why did you pick The Plaza?
My husband and I had a home in Brentmoor Park. He never wanted to move to a condo, but we decided to at least check some out. We looked around Clayton and were very impressed by The Plaza. Initially, we took a half-floor unit and were pleased with that, but my husband got a call about moving to the 29th floor where we’d have the entire floor. That was a surprise!
What are some standout features of the penthouse?
When we took the unit, it was a shell—just one big open scary place. My son-in-law Stephen Levin is an outstanding architect who has received national recognition for his work. He told us not to worry about it and designed the space. We worked on the condo for two years, and the results exceeded our expectations. The condo is almost 7,000 square feet, and there are two big terraces. We had a separate area for guests with their own bedrooms and bathrooms, plus its own elevator.
Do you have a favorite room?
My favorite is what I called my Hollywood room. It was very glitzy and glamorous— people were always dazzled when they went in. The room is a little more private than the more open parts of the condo. It was my special room, and I hope that someone finds a wonderful use for it now.
How is the unit for entertaining?
That was the best part! We hosted many benefits. The biggest was 98 guests, and no one felt crowded. The condo has a very open concept, so it’s easy to flow from space to space. The terraces also were great for parties.
What would you like the next homeowner to know?
I loved living at The Plaza. The people are wonderful, and you can count on everything to be taken care of—all you have to do is call, and it’s done in a snap. My husband and I put together this condo with Stephen’s help, and it’s just wonderful. &
Picture perfect home in sought after Clayton Gardens. Renovated and expanded, shows like new construction. High-end finishes throughout, this is a must see!
ADDING CURB APPEAL
A lot goes into making sure your home has curb appeal—the landscaping, driveway, entryway, lawn and more all come together to paint the full picture. Whether you’ve got weeks or just an afternoon, here are a few things you can do to make sure your home makes a great first impression.
Major: Refresh the Facade
A fresh coat of paint or new siding can go a long way to improve the appearance of your home. Make sure you are doing basic maintenance regularly, such as addressing defects like cracks and rot. To add a little oomph to your home’s facade consider introducing elements like new trim or shutters.
Minor: Paint the Front Door
Catch the eyes of passers-by with a brightly painted door. When picking your color, make sure you look at it in natural light. If you pick it based on how it looks indoors, you’re not going to get an idea of the final look.
Major: Create a Front Garden
Colorful plantings are a surefire way to catch the eye of passersby. If you’re working with limited space, you can still add some impact. Consider placing planting beds at the front corners of the yard or along with the driveway or walkways. When planning a front garden, make sure it frames the features of your home instead of obscuring them. Also choose a variety of colors, textures and heights to create interest.
Minor: Plant a Tree
If you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the garden, a tree can add more impact with less effort. Small ornamental varieties, such as dogwood, redbud and Japanese maple can add more curb appeal without taking years to establish and grow.
Major: Slope Your Landscaping
A retaining wall is a creative way to add an elevated look in sloped lawns. The various elevations of terraced gardens can not only enhance your yard’s aesthetic appeal, but they can aid in preventing erosion and make lawncare simpler—no more having to mow a steep incline!
Minor: Add Window Boxes
Flower boxes are a great way to add color to your home’s facade. They’re a fun alternative to containers and planters, and it’s a DIY project that will only take about an afternoon to install. And they aren’t limited to windows. You also can install them along porch railings. Just remember, they only help with curb appeal if you maintain them.
Major: Build a Walkway
A walkway will help welcome guests to your home. Think outside of straight lines, a contoured walkway of stone or brick can add a big boost of curb appeal. Brick pavers offer a classic look, while natural stone can create something a little more rustic. If you are working with an existing concrete path, you can install brick edging to give it a more refined look or try a colorful concrete stain if you’re looking for something more playful.
Minor: Makeover Your Mailbox
Personalized mailboxes have a bit of a kitschy reputation, but your options aren’t limited to bright colors or novelty shapes. If you have a wall-mounted box, you can go modern with something simple and understanded, or make a statement with something bold and vintage. If you’ve got a post-mounted box, consider adding plantings around it. Low maintenance plants and shrubs are an easy way to beautify the space.
BY stephanie wallace
CLAYTON’S LUXURY LEADERS
$849,900
$2,364,000
$799,000
ASK THE AGENT
Matt Litwack | Land|Litwack & Associates
BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES
ALLIANCE REAL ESTATE
Do we really need to stage our home?
If possible, absolutely. Pictures will look better, your home will show better, and the end results will be better. And while you’re at it, paint can be your best friend!
8077 Maryland Ave. 314.872.6677 landlitwack.com
Steve and Joe Mathes
COLDWELL BANKER REALTY - GUNDAKER
When is the best time to sell my home?
Ted Wight
DIELMANN SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Should I paint my home or offer a credit?
Credits get absorbed on the closing statement and give the buyer little monthly savings. We always suggest doing work upfront to make the home photograph and show better.
8301 Maryland Ave., No. 100 314.607.5555
tedwightrealestate.com
Right now! Low inventory and lots of buyers combined with warmer weather, beautiful trees and flowers, and the spring market equals the highest and best price for your home sale. 9651 Clayton Road 314.503.6533 steveandjoemathes.com
GLADYS MANION REAL ESTATE
Why are there so many off-market sales, and
Listings with full market exposure attract more buyers, boost competition and lead to offers with better terms and stronger negotiating power. Unless privacy is essential, broad visibility typically leads to better financial outcomes.
Kim Carney
COLDWELL BANKER PREMIER GROUP REAL ESTATE
Why are homes selling for over the list price, and what is causing these bidding wars?
There is still low inventory, and homes priced right or just under market value will generate the most interest. A good agent will talk to you about this strategy and make sure you are priced right. Strategic pricing is so important in today’s market.
2203 S. Big Bend Blvd. 314.422.7449 KimCarney.cbphomes.com
Mary McGrath
BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES SELECT PROPERTIES
How do you counsel buyers to best compete in a fast market with multiple offers?
Buyers need to be prepared and decisive to make a strong, clean offer. A preapproval that clears underwriting can reduce contingencies. Know your top priorities and work with an experienced agent and lender.
12851 Manchester Road, Ste. 100 314.378.8824 | 314.725.2050 marykmcgrath.com
Tommy Espenschied Espenschied Hermann Group
BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES ALLIANCE REAL ESTATE
What is the demand for homes in different parts of St. Louis?
Real demand isn’t citywide—it’s hyper-local. We analyze buyer activity, competition and recent sales around your home to give you a clear strategic outlook.
Absolutely. Good homes, priced right, prepared for sale and marketed to the highest level with our proven systems are still selling for top dollar, in many cases with multiple offers.
Real estate doesn’t wait—and neither do we. Questions at 9 p.m.? Last-minute decisions? Unexpected turns? We’re here 24/7. We offer reputation, results and relentless dedication throughout the entire process.
1608 S. Lindbergh Blvd. | 314.680.1426 | 314.347.1658 lizzydooley.com
Is now a good time to sell my
We believe that the market you know is better than the market you don’t. Right now the market is strong, fueled by real buyer demand. We recommend listing your home sooner than later. 9889 Clayton Road | 314.997.4800 | janetmcafee.com
Mark and Neil Gellman | The Gellman Team EXP REALTY
Lizzy Dooley Real Estate Team COMPASS REALTY GROUP
Keller Williams Realty Chesterfield Agent: Tim Antrobus
63130
6822 Pershing Ave.
$899,000 | Pr/SqFt: $285.03 EXP Realty Agent: Joe Archambault
63131
1000 Des Peres Woods Court
$780,000 | Pr/SqFt: $290.61
Dielmann Sotheby’s International Realty Agents: The Warner Hall Group
669 Wyndham Crossings Circle
$1,075,000 | Pr/SqFt: $351.08
Berkshire Hathaway
HomeServices Select Properties Agent: Mary McGrath
3020 Westham Drive
$1,455,000 | Pr/SqFt: $364.11
Dielmann Sotheby’s International Realty Agent: Andrew Dielmann
3 Rutherford Lane
$2,200,000 | Pr/SqFt: $614.18
Compass Realty Group Agent: Megan Rowe
63132
12 Bon Price Terrace
$524,900 | Pr/SqFt: $229.01
Berkshire Hathaway
HomeServices Select Properties Agent: Scott Locker
63141
822 Town & Country Estates Drive
$950,000 | Pr/SqFt: $295.21
John Jackson Neighborhood Real Estate Company Agent: John Jackson
Compass Realty Group
Agent: Laura Sanders
FROM THE BLOG OF...
INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT | Q & A WITH PETER FALKNER
From a childhood spent tending his grandfather’s garden to a career in landscape design, Peter Falkner of Falkner Gardens has dedicated himself to creating beautiful, usable landscape for hundreds of clients. We chatted with Peter about all things landscape.
Do you have a favorite project you’ve completed?
One of my favorites was for a family member outside of Atlanta. It’s a very unique, really beautiful pool, outdoor kitchen and dining terrace in a beautiful setting on a small farm. The project flows so well and fits the family so well. The bricks that line the courtyard are from an old general store that was across the street. The family uses it like we built it—to entertain, relax and enjoy. It was fun to see the project come to life.
What does your dream project look like?
We just completed a project on a home built in the 1920s. The new owner has four daughters and they envisioned having parties and weddings at the home. We kept it true to the ’20s style and helped bring that design to life with the pool, courtyard and different features. It’s not just work to make it look beautiful, they really wanted to make it a special place.
Where do you draw inspiration?
I’m a visual person and always have been. I could be anywhere and see something inspiring. A trip, a walk, bike ride—it will ignite something inside of me to use that idea somewhere. Walking and riding your bike is a slower way to take in your surroundings, so for visual people, that is
important. The roads we ride on have some really beautiful houses, so it’s fun to ride bikes and notice those types of things. Slow down and take in your surroundings.
What does the process of a new project look like from beginning to end?
Someone will call, and we will meet and try to learn what they want to accomplish. What is the end goal? We will have a master plan and implement that a year at a time. Once we finish the designs, we will meet and talk about the cost of different phases. Once the project is started, we will pick out features like pots, benches and lighting. We are with them the whole way. You don’t just see me once; I’m there through it all.
What are your favorite plants to use in landscape design?
Boxwoods. Whether they’re in a hedge or potted, boxwoods are classic and timeless and can look great in a traditional or contemporary home.
What is your favorite material to work with in addition to greenery?
Natural stone, whether that is Pennsylvania blue stone, sandstone or reclaimed bricks.
Do you have any tips for those who might just be getting into DIY gardening or landscaping?
Try to focus on one area at a time and finish that area. Even if you have to clean everything out or go back to replant, do one space really well before you move onto the next one.
What is the best way to landscape for year-round beauty?
Using containers and pots. You can change those out as much as you want to. Even if everything else is dormant, you can have a really vibrant pot that can warm the space up and make it feel alive.
What tips would you pass along to homeowners wanting to update a smaller outdoor area?
Adding pots or a fountain and freshening up your furniture can have a tremendous impact. You don’t notice that the stone or pavers might be older if everything else looks great.
What are some other common problems someone can run into when landscaping, and what is your best advice to combat that?
The biggest problem I see is that people have trouble watering. You have to run the water a lot to get the plants established. &
CURB
LANDSCAPE DESIGN: FALKNER GARDENS PHOTOS: JEAN ALLSOPP
by patty hannum
The Let Them Theory by Mel
Robbins
I don’t often read self-help books, but this one is an exception. I have been struggling lately with anxiety. This book really reinforces that the only person you can control is yourself no matter how hard you try. You can’t manage other people’s happiness, but you can focus on your own life. Someone is bugging me? Let them. It is their life not yours!
The Pitt HBO
This show follows a fictional E.R. hour by hour. It is fascinating as no one is the hero; everyone is just trying to do their job with an ever expanding patient load. Noah Wylie is the head of the trauma center and does a masterful job of being in all places at all times. I did call my nephew, you know the trauma surgeon (can you tell I am proud?), to tell him to watch the show. He informed me that the old TV series Scrubs is a much better depiction of an E.R. than other medical shows.
Murder at the End of the World Hulu
A group of people are invited to a conference—I picture it like Davos—which happens to be in Greenland where a Jeff Bezos-type billionaire has used A.I. to create a perfectly curated getaway. No one plans for what actually happens. Watch it. It forces you to question the use of A.I. in our world.
The Perfect Couple Netflix
A wedding is ruined by the discovery of a dead body. Nicole Kidman is perfectly cast. This three-part series is bingeable. Stay tuned to the very end because the killer is not who you think!
OFF the cuff claiborne jordan renaud
Jordan Renaud wants you to put your phone away—at least when you’re visiting Work & Leisure, the innovative event space he owns in Midtown. What started as a coworking space has developed into something altogether unique, with non-digital games, food and drinks, themed movie nights, adult summer camp and more.
WHAT MAKES WORK & LEISURE DIFFERENT FROM THE AVERAGE EVENT SPACE?
Work & Leisure started in 2018 as a coworking space with a coffee shop, and we also hosted some events. COVID happened, and we had to pivot—as most places did. We ended up turning into a place for larger daytime meetings and private events at night. In the past couple years, we’ve gotten into doing more charity-focused things, and when we host any large event ourselves, we always incorporate some sort of giveback initiative. We firmly believe that if we have the opportunity, we’re going to do good.
HOW DO YOU CREATE A UNIQUE ENVIRONMENT?
We’re located in the heart of Midtown in a 5,000-square-foot warehouse that was built in the early 1900s. It has those old touches, which are really cool. We didn’t want to cover any of that up when we rehabbed the building. We tried to warm up the space without losing any of the character.
EVENT SPACES ARE ONLY AS GOOD AS THEIR FOOD AND DRINK. WHAT DOES YOUR MENU LOOK LIKE?
We have an amazing bar manager-mixologist, Raven Weinrich, who comes up with some awesome, unique cocktails. We’ve been extremely fortunate to team up with chef Liz Shuster. She does Tenacious Eats where she pairs movies with different menus to create an immersive experience. Raven and Liz collaborating on flavors has been spectacular—they fit the food and drinks together perfectly.
DO YOU HAVE THEME NIGHTS?
We try to do at least two events a month where we pair up movies and themed dinners through Tenacious Eats. We also do all sorts of things ourselves. In June, we’re doing our adult summer camp, and we have around 16 different theme nights like scouts, tie dye and Friday the 13th .
WHAT’S THE MOST UNIQUE EVENT YOU’VE HOSTED?
One of the first that surprised me was an esports event back in 2019. It was the League of Legends championship. I’m not much of a gamer, so it was a little foreign to me. It was amazing to see the massive followings the players have. We also did a Space Oddity New Year’s party to ring in 2020, which was really cool.
WHY ST. LOUIS?
Some of my best memories from growing up are coming to St. Louis for Cardinals games with my family. My older brother moved here about a year and a half before I did. I would visit him, and I absolutely fell in love with the city, the people, the different neighborhoods. I thought it was amazing that there was this diverse place where I could meet different people and have conversations. Plus, now I can catch Cardinals games on the fly!
YOUR THREE GO-TO RESTAURANTS IN ST. LOUIS.
I’ve never had a bad dish at Balkan Treat Box, whether it’s the restaurant or the food truck. Stone Turtle in Dogtown is a date night go-to for my fiancée and me. One of my favorites that is unfortunately leaving is Rated Test Kitchen. The stuff that chef Juwan Rice was putting out there was so good.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR:
5/3 & 5/4
peer gynt - an epic tale
In a theatrical experience unlike no other, Evard Grieg’s Peer Gynt comes to life on stage. The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and Chorus are joined by actors, puppets and sets for a truly unique production.
Experience the timeless tradition of afternoon tea with a playful twist. Guests can enjoy a carefully curated selection of seasonal and classic tea sandwiches, housemade pastries and premium teas while building their own bouquet. The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis | $129 | 11 a.m. 1.800.241.3333 | ritzcarlton.com/stlouis
5/6
bach at the bistro
This one-of-a-kind evening features the talented voices of the Bach Society Chorus. Enjoy clever mashups and reimagined Broadway hits, blending timeless classics with contemporary favorites.
Jazz St. Louis | $52 | 6 p.m. | 314.652.2224 bachsociety.org
5/9
sounds of cinema
In an evening dedicated to three composers whose work has influenced and appeared in movies, the Arianna String Quartet invites you on a journey of spectacular music conjuring stories, characters and moods.
Touhill Performing Arts Center | $10-$30 7:30 p.m. | touhill.universitytickets.com
5/9-5/11
laumeier’s 38th annual art fair
Shop handmade artwork from 150 artists, discover tasty food and beverage options, get creative with hands-on activities for the whole family and enjoy live music and entertainment.
The story of a real estate entrepreneur who is determined to become Pittsburgh’s first black mayor, the play is the final part of August Wilson’s American Century Cycle, covering 100 years of the Black experience in America.
Edison Theatre | $20-$50 | Various showtimes 314.534.3810 | theblackrep.org
5/20-6/1 & juliet
Join fellow beer lovers to sip suds from local, national and international craft breweries while also enjoying food and live music.
Rhone Festival Grounds | $50-$80 | 1-4 p.m. stlmicrofest.org
5/16 & 5/17
taste of maplewood
Celebrate Maplewood’s renowned restaurants and beloved boutiques and stores. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, food vendors, demonstrations and more.
This hilarious new musical flips the script on the greatest love story ever told. What would happen next if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo? Get whisked away on a fabulous journey as she ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love.
The Fabulous Fox Theatre | $32-$105 Various showtimes | 314.534.1111 fabulousfox.com
5/24-5/26
st. louis african arts festival
Celebrate the rich and diverse cultures of African and African American people through arts and crafts, clothing, jewelry, cultural demonstrations, traditional foods and African films.
5/24
harmonious
COCA’s premiere vocal company, Allegro Vocal Company, presents its end-of-season music spectacular. The program focuses on the horror musical genre, featuring songs from Sweeney Todd, Jekyll and Hyde and Little Shop of Horrors.
