Skip to main content

April 3, 2026

Page 1


4540LindellBoulevardPH502|St.Louis

$1,199,000|2BEDS|2FULL&1HALFBATHS|2,499SQ.FT. RexW.Schwerdt|314.800.4755|rexwschwerdt@gmail.com

14BallantraeCourt|Frontenac

$2,895,000|6BEDS|8FULLBATHS|10,820SQ.FT. TheWarnerHallGroup|314.795.9219|warner@warnerhallgroup.com

SeekYour1of1

424JulianPlace|Kirkwood

$750,000|5BEDS|3FULL&1HALFBATHS|2,314SQ.FT. BethSchultz|314.609.3855|beth.schultz@dielmannsir.com

8116UniversityDrive|Clayton

$3,000,000|4BEDS| 4FULL&1HALFBATHS |5,882SQ.FT

TheWarnerHallGroup|314.795.9219|warner@warnerhallgroup.com

dielmannsir.com|314.725.0009 8301MarylandAvenue,Suite100,ClaytonMO

S THE LEADER IN K YAWAL

ALWAYSTHELEADERINKANSASANDMISSOURI. SOURI. S AND MIS

Thankyou,St.Louis, formakingReeceNichols Missouri’smosttrusted realestatebrokerage againin2025.

CURIOUSWHATYOUR HOMEISWORTH? CHECKHERE:

Mom& Me

Presentedby:

We’relookingfortheultimatedoppelgängingmom-and-kid duosintheSt.Louisarea!Thetop-votedphotowillreceiveaprize fromTheOnlyFacialandwillbefeaturedintheMother’sDay editionoftheSt.LouisPost-Dispatch.

PUBLISHER

Ian Caso

EDITORIAL

EDiTOr-iN-CHiEF

Amanda Dahl | adahl@laduenews.com

SENiOr EDiTOr

Emily Standlee | estandlee@laduenews.com

CONTriBUTiNG WriTErS

Mark Bretz, Bethany Christo, Drew Gieseke, Sabrina Heffern, Alecia Humphreys, Rob Levy, Connie Mitchell, Nancy Robinson, Andrea Smith, Mabel Suen, Katie Yeadon

SALES

ViCE prESiDENT OF SAlES

Kevin Hart | khart@stlpostmedia.com

SENiOr MEDiA STrATEGiST

Katie Ray | kray@laduenews.com

MEDiA STrATEGiST

Michelle Brown | mbrown@laduenews.com

SpECiAl prOJECTS MANAGEr

Maggie Peters | mpeters@laduenews.com

ClASSiFiED ACCOUNT MANAGEr

Lisa Taylor | ltaylor@lee.net

CREATIVE

ArT DirECTOr

Laura De Vlieger | ldevlieger@laduenews.com

CONTriBUTiNG pHOTOGrApHEr

Christina Kling-Garrett

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @LADUENEWS

Get our best stories delivered weekly to your inbox by signing   up for our newsletter on the laduenews.com homepage.

Springbreakmayhavecomeandgone,givingyousomereprieveafterthecozyyet longwinterseason–butwhystopthere?Travelcanbecomepartofyourroutine ifyouhavetheresourcesandcouragetopursueit.OnPage42,onelocalparent sharesherfamily’sjourneyforwellnessandwhatfamilylifecanlooklikewhile trottingtheglobe.

Oneofthemostwonderfulpartsofspring’sarrivalisn’ttimeofftoventuresomewhere warmorexotic–it’sreconnectingwiththeearth.Whetherthroughgardeningorexercising outdoors,feelingthesunonyourskinagaincanprovideasenseofrenewal.Justasnature cannurtureus,socanwenurturetheplanetwhichweinhabit.TurntoPage18formetrowideeventscelebratingbothArborDayandEarthDay.

Withsignificantchangesinspendinglegislationatthestateandfederallevels,charitable organizationsacrossthecountryandhereathomearefacingunprecedentedchallenges withsustainingfinancialsupport.Anewconsortiumseekstostrengthenlocalnonprofits throughanetworkofsupportingservices.ReadmoreonPage40.

AnothernoteworthycollaborationishappeningonstagenowthroughApril11.FliptoPage 32andreadaboutShakespeareFestivalSt.Louis’productionwithAlbionTheatre,which celebratesoneofthegreatestmodernEnglish-languageplaywrights.

ThanksforreadingLadueNews.

LANDMARKSWALKING TOURSnowopen

SeeSt.Louisthroughneweyeswhenyou embarkonfootwithaguidedtourofthe city.OnetourpromisestounveilhowUnion Stationwasoncepartofalargelake.Visit landmarkstours-stl.orgorcall314-421-6474 forticketsormoreinformation.

TheMISSOURIBOOK FESTIVALreturns

OnApril18from9a.m.to2p.m.inWashington, Missouri,visitorscanenjoyauthortalks,food demos,andmoredynamicprogramming. Visitwashmolib.org/o/wpl/page/missouribook-festivalfordetails.

SAINTLOUISWATERCOLOR SOCIETYannounceswinners oftheALLIANCEOFYOUNG WRITERSANDARTISTS bi-statecompetition

TheSocietyrecentlyrecognizedthetalentsof eightyounglocalartistswithanawardof$850 each.“OurDailyPuzzle”byMichelleChenand “TheHarmonyWithin”byClaireXiaoearned goldmedalawards.

Editor’sphotobyChristinaKling-Garrett;photoof“OurDaily Puzzle”byMichelleChen;photoof“TheHarmonyWithin” byClaireXiao

ByMaggiePeters

Itcanbedifficulttoacceptwhenalovedoneneedsthe additionalcareprovidedbyanassistedlivingcommunity.

McKnightPlaceAssistedLiving&MemoryCarehelps easethistransition,assuringfamiliesthatthattheir lovedoneswillhaveanenrichedlivingexperience,without losingindependence.

“Assistedliving[is]aboutreintroducingease,connection, andopportunity,explainsexecutivedirectorElizabethStotser. “Itcreatesasettingwherelifefeelssupported,engaging,and evenvibrantagain,withexperiencesthoughtfullytailoredto eachindividual.”

“Commonmisconceptions[aboutassistedliving]arethe atmosphere,diningoptionsandactivitiesandevents,”adds directorofleasing,LesleyPedroli.“Whatisofferedtodayis muchdifferentthanwhattheyhaveexperiencedinthepast.”

Asalocallyownedcommunitywithownerswhoremain activelyinvolvedonsite,andwithmorethan30yearsof experienceservingseniorsintheSt.Louisarea,McKnight Placebringsadeeplypersonalapproachtocareand community.Thecommunityofferssupportwithdaily activities,andavarietyofsocialactivitiesthathelpresidents bothwithwellnessandcognitiveskillsaswellasopportunities tobuildfriendships.Additionally,McKnightPlaceoffers personalizedcareplansthatgivefamiliespeaceofmind.

Stotseraddsthatisolationisoneofthebiggestrisksfor olderadultslivingalone,andsocialengagement,routine,and purposecandramaticallyimprovewellbeing.Whenfamilies visitMcKnightPlace,theyseethebeautifulcommunity withabrightopenfeelingandmanysocialareas,aswellas opportunitiesforresidentstomakenewfriends,experience newthingsorre-engageinactivitiestheyusedtoenjoy.

“Ourfocusisonmeaningfulengagement,notsimply stayingbusyorfillingtime,butcreatingopportunitiesfor connection,purpose,andagenuinesenseofbelonging,”she says.“Whenresidentsfeelconnectedandengaged,itshows ineveryaspectoftheirwellbeing.”

Whenitcomestohelpingfamiliesmakethisdifficult decision,thestaffatMcKnightPlacetakeasmuchtimeas possibletolearnabouttheirlovedoneisimportant, includingthroughmeetingthemintheircurrenthome.

“Wetaketimetolearneachresident’sroutines, preferences,andpersonalitysowecancreateasenseof familiarityrightaway,”Stotsersays.“Atthesametime,westay closelyconnectedwithfamilies,communicatingearlyand oftensotheyfeelreassuredthroughouttheprocess.Formany families,theturningpointiswhentheyseetheirlovedone notjustsafebutmoreengaged,moresupported,andmore atease.”

McKnightPlaceoffersthisassistanceandtransparencyto helpfamiliesconsidersupportivelivingfortheirlovedones beforeacrisisoccurs.Planningearlierallowsresidentsto settlein,buildrelationships,andtrulyenjoythelifestyle.

“Youcanalwayscountonbeingstoppedbyaresident whentouring,sayinghowwonderfultheirhomeis,”Pedroli concludes.“Aftertheirlovedonehasmovedin,families oftensay‘weshouldhavedonethissooner!’”

McKnightPlaceAssistedLiving&MemoryCare,ThreeMcKnightPlace, St.Louis,314-470-9424,mcknightplace.com

Protecting the Future of ENDANGERED SPECIES

When newborn animals appear on the social media feed, births at a zoo can seem like magic. But behind every adorable arrival is a meticulous, collaborative effort backed by months of quiet preparation at the Saint Louis Zoo. Across North America, accredited zoos participate in science-backed “matchmaking” to protect the health, diversity, and future of species in their care. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plans evaluate genetics, heredity, compatibility, and more to recommend suitable breeding pairs in North American zoos.

Julie Hartell-DeNardo, the Kevin Beckmann curator of carnivores, leads a team of keepers that have celebrated an incredible baby boom in recent years: Amur tiger triplets, cheetah quintuplets, two Amur leopard cubs, and the Zoo’s first-ever litter of African painted dog pups. These births were not the result of magic, but rather intentional conservation aimed at ensuring species’ survival.

Once a compatible breeding pair is identified, the Zoo’s Animal Care team begins introductions through a process called “howdy access.”

Animals are allowed to smell, hear, and see each other through barriers as keepers monitor for signs of interest. If all goes well, the pair is introduced. For the staff who know these animals, it’s a diligent process, and that requires profound responsibility.

Beyond medical care, there are also habitat conditions and natural behaviors to consider. Ahead of the Zoo’s painted dog births, Hartell-DeNardo’s team collaborated with national partners to understand ideal birthing conditions. Zoo carpenters refined den box designs. Technology Services staff installed a new remote monitoring system. These upgrades offered mom a safe, quiet space to deliver while keepers unobtrusively observed. Hartell-DeNardo describes the Zoo’s primary role as that of a “supportive bystander.” While many guests dream of cuddling a cheetah cub, she says the greatest reward is seeing family units thrive independently. It’s the surest sign of a strong future for these species.

When the magical news of a Zoo baby breaks, all of St. Louis has something to celebrate. Yes, it’s the arrival of a new adorable animal, but it’s also a powerful step forward in protecting wildlife for generations to come.

Saint Louis Zoo,stlzoo.org

Amur leopard cubs and mom in maternity den
Painted dog pup receives 7-week checkup
Cheetah cubs in River’s Edge habitat

Buildnew,rebuildwhatyouhave,orstartfromscratch.

White-gloveservice.

You’llalwaysknowwhat’shappening,whotocontact,andthat someonetrulycaresaboutdoingthingsright.

Personalizeddesigns.

Pickfromourcollectionofhigh-qualitydesignsandpersonalize, bringyourownplans,oruseourarchitects.

AT 92, REVA DAVIS STILL INSPIRES LADUE STUDENTS

Some might view their 90s as a time for rest,  but Reva Davis continues to inspire students  with the infectious energy of someone half  her age.

For four decades, Davis has dedicated herself to  Ladue schools, including 36 consecutive years as a  Science Olympiad coach. In January 2026, Davis was  surprised by students, staff, and former coworkers  to celebrate her 92nd birthday – and her countless,  immeasurable contributions to the school district.

“Her service is invaluable,” says Kimberly  McKenzie, the district’s director of communications.  “She’s still giving because she still has so much  to offer.”

Although Davis technically retired in 2007, you  wouldn’t know it by her constant presence at Ladue  Middle School. The former social studies teacher  regularly volunteers within the district and around  Ladue, serving as a reminder that giving back doesn’t  have to end when you stop working. “It just keeps  you connected to the community,” she says.

A primary challenge educators face is connecting  across generations, and sometimes bridging the divide  can be especially difficult the further removed you are  from the students you teach. Davis is an exception.

“These are the nicest kids who want to learn,”  Davis says. “Their families are supportive. You’ve  got people who really want to succeed and do  things. And now, I’ve lived long enough that I

see other things they’ve done in life. It gives you  great pleasure.”

Davis has served as a coach since 1990 on Ladue  Middle School’s Science Olympiad team, joining a  year after 8th-grade science teacher Martin Long  started the team. During her tenure, the team has  qualified for the national finals more times than any  other school in Missouri (29), including 19 state titles.

“She has been the ‘mom’ of the team for so many  years,” Long says. “She is also notorious for spending  way too much time in gift shops on the team’s trips  to the national finals.”

Another colleague, 8th-grade science teacher  Michael Clay, has taught at Ladue Middle School for  17 years and only knows Davis for her work through  Science Olympiad. According to Clay, Davis prepares  for hours in advance to make sure kids are ready to  compete: “She never misses a chance to work with  the children,” he says.

In addition to the surprise birthday celebration,  Davis received the Ladue Legacy Award in March  2026 for her years of working in the community.  While the accolade is certainly well-deserved, it’s  just another reminder of something everyone who’s  worked with Davis already knew: She’s the best.

“Those who know Reva are made better by the  relationship,” Clay adds. “Once you have met her, you  will be nothing short of in awe with the incredible  person she is.”

Those who know Reva are made better by the relationship. Once you have met her, you will be nothing short of in awe with the incredible person she is.
– MiCHAEl ClAY
Science Olympiad state champions (reva Davis pictured at center)

ComingSoon

SHOWINGSBEGINATOPENHOUSEONAPRIL12TH,1-4PM.

Whatanextraordinaryhome.Stunningcustomhomehandcraftedwithendlessamenitiesto includeaprivate,beautiful,ingroundsaltwaterpoolandsportcourt.Veryprivatesettingat theendofacul-de-sacandnexttoneighborhoodpark.Privatescreenedporchwithpatio backingtotrees.Thishomehassomuchtoofferandreallyisoneofakind.LadueSchools andwalkingdistancetoSpoedeElementary. Onceinsideyouaregreetedwithagraciousentryandopenfloorplan.Formaloctagonoffice withbuiltinbookcases,woodflooring,andheavymillwork.Largediningroomwithcoffered ceilingandwoodfloors.Twostorygreatroomwithgasfireplace,wetbarandwoodflooring. Hugekitchenwithlargecenterislandthatopenstotheattachedfamilyroomandbreakfast roomarea.Woodfloors,stoneaccentwall,gasfireplace,Decorstainlessappliances,crushed recycledglasscountertops,viewstotherearandsideoverlookinggardenpatioandin groundpool.Firstfloormasterbedroomwithfireplaceandin-suiteluxurymasterbath.Dual vanities,separateshowerandtub,crushedrecycledglasscountertops.Upstairs3expansive bedroomseachwiththeirownbathandwalkincloset.Thelowerlevelisfinishedwithlarge recroom,familyroom,walkbehindfullbar,winecellarthatholdsapprox.1,000bottles,full bath,halfbath,exerciseroomandgasfireplace.Walkouttolower-levelpatio/yardand sportcourt.Greatcurbappealwithcustomwoodfrontdoorandcircledirve.3cargarageis heated.Newerroof.Geothermalheatingandcooling.Trulyaremarkablehome

MARGIEMEDELBERG COLDWELLBANKERGUNDAKER LUXURYLISTING 314-265-3888 636-532-0200 margie.medelberg@cbrealty.com

FINANCIAL MATTERS

Busey Bank

190 Carondelet plaza, 314-863-7777, busey.com

For nearly 160 years, Busey Bank  has provided a range of financial  solutions tailored to your unique  needs through their multiple  lines of business. From digital  banking to retirement planning,  their experienced team can help  you achieve your financial goals.  To learn more, visit busey.com.  Member FDIC.

Whitey Holt, CFP ® , CDFA ® , Wealth Manager

Plaza Advisory Services

101 South Hanley road, Suite 1350, 314-726-0600

New tax law changes to charitable  deductions are happening in 2026. If  you are a passionate giver to charity,  you may want to review whether  a donor-advised fund or Qualified  Charitable Distributions make sense to  add to your charitable giving process.

Inaworldofinfinitepossibility,there’sno betterplacethanAberdeenHeightsto diveintoretirement.Discoverexcitement andpurposeherewith SignatureLiving, amultidimensionallifestyleprogram uniquetoournot-for-profitLifePlan Community.Enjoyimmersiveevents, invigoratingactivities,anda maintenance-freelifestyle.Readytodip yourtoesin?Contactustodayto discoverjusthowgoodlifeherecanbe.

Discoveraretirementthatthrives. Contactustoday: 314-325-7416 aberdeenseniorliving.com

THEGOLDKEYPROJECT GOLDJECTPROKEY THE

ReeceNicholsRealEstateisproudtobringour GoldKeyProjectpartnershipwithRonald McDonaldHousetoSt.Louis.

BeginninginApril,ReeceNicholsGoldKeyagents willdonateaportionofeverycommissioncheckto RonaldMcDonaldHousefromeachhometheyhelp buyorsell.Thatmoneygivesfamiliesafreeplaceto stay,alongwithwarmmealsandsupport,whiletheir childisinthehospital.

ReeceNicholsandourGoldKeyagentshavedonated over$1.7milliontoMissouriRonaldMcDonald HouselocationssincetheGoldKeyProjectbegan in2020.Thosegiftshaveprovidedover15,000free nightsforfamiliestostayneartheirsickchild.

It’sanaturalpartnership.ReeceNicholshelps familiesfindhome,whileRonaldMcDonaldHouse givesfamiliesahomeawayfromhome.

FamiliesliketheWarrenfamily.

AmeliaWarrencametoSt.LouisChildren’sHospital forasecondopiniononautoimmunehepatitisthat wascausingherlivertofail.

Shefinallygotalife-savinglivertransplantlast October.Becauseherimmunesystemwasfragile duringtherecoveryprocess,itwascriticaltostayin asafeenvironmentnearthehospital.That’swhere herfamilyfoundcomfortatRonaldMcDonaldHouse St.Louis.

“WecametoSt.Louisforstrongmedicaladviceand weren’tsurewherewewouldstay,”Amelia’smom, Laura,said.“Wereceivedmorethanweeverexpected. NotjustforAmelia’srecovery,butforourpeaceof mind.Wehadahomethere,withoutfear.”

BecauseofRonaldMcDonaldHouseCharitiesofSt. Louis,Amelia’sfamilyneverhadtofacethisjourney alone.Backathome,theycannowfocusonwhat mattersmost:watchingtheirdaughtergrowstronger eachday.

LearnmoreatReeceNichols.com/Gold-Key-Project

CHESTERFIELD

A.J.Graham

AnnaTabaka

BethSosnoff

CherylWambach

ClareMartin

ColleenMcCabe

DebiDonaldson

FredWolfmeyer

JenniferSavard

JoannRupert

KarenWagner

KarenTucker

KimHeligman

KimJones

KristenForrest

KristenKraus

KristineKraft

LisaGraf

MarieReinisch

MaureenMantych

MikeLewis

PatMalloy

RachaelPatrick

RoeMcCabe

RyanQuick

StellaSimon

StephenHaring

SueDeBellis

SusanneWatkins

SuzanneMatyiko

YvetteHipskind

CLAYTON

BerkleyLandConley

CarolynMalecek

ConnieLee

CraigBurfield

DianePatershuk

ElaineS.Larson

ErikPetersen

FranRice

JessamynStewart

JoelleWebbeHibbard

JulianneSharp

JulieBisig

KathyKarasick

LeslieNichols

PamThuston

PamSchneider

PamelaBerra

RachelBoxdorfer

SahkuraThorps-Aziz

SarahCrandall

SarahDavis

StephenGruszka

VeoresDean

WendyHermann

FENTON

ChristinaMartin

DianneStasa

RenaMooney

RobTerry

ST.CHARLES

DanaLineback

DianeRumbo

DonnaMartinez

JanetLamartina

JanieMueller

JillSchulte

JoanMartin

JuliaMiller

KatlynSchwartz

KayleeBehrle

KellyWeber

KylaNarkawicz

MariaCaruso

MikeLamartina

PatriciaWilson

PattyHarger

SonyaKaur

StacyMoeller

TerriSutton

TerryGuempel

TracyRichardson

TriciaSauget

WASHINGTON

MaryBoswell

Love Your

Mother Earth

Earth Day and Arbor Day serve as important opportunities to inform and educate communities about preserving Planet Earth. Enjoy family-friendly fun while learning about ecology and conservation at this year’s metro-area events:

CHESTERFIELD GOES GREEN

An Earth Day tradition in Chesterfield continues in Central Park on April 18 from 9 to 11 a.m. Visitors can take home native trees, courtesy of the Missouri Department of Conservation, as well as butterfly- and hummingbirdfriendly native wildflower seeds. Guests can also take part in unique giveaways and a range of recycling efforts.

6365 Lydia Hill Drive, Chesterfield, 636-812-9500, chesterfield.mo.us/662/earth-day

EARTH DAY BIRTHDAY PARTY AT THE ST. LOUIS COUNTY

LIBRARY’S ROCK ROAD BRANCH

This free event on April 22 will celebrate Earth Day at the St. Louis County Library’s Rock Road Branch from 6 to 7 p.m. Aimed at children and families, the party includes games, crafts, and storytelling.

10267 St. Charles Rock Road, St. Ann, 314-994-3300, slcl.org

EARTH DAY EXTRAVAGANZA AT THE ST. LOUIS COUNTY

LIBRARY’S WEBER ROAD BRANCH

Local families are encouraged to explore environmental programming at this free event on April 21 from 10 to 11 a.m. Geared toward children ages 3 through 6, the event features crafts and environmentalthemed activities.

4444 Weber Road, St. Louis, 314-994-3300, slcl.org

EARTH DAY POTTING AT CITY TREE FARM

On April 22 from 10 a.m. to noon, Forest ReLeaf will celebrate Earth Day by planting 600 young trees to help expand the region’s canopy. This all-ages event is being held at City Tree Farm, next to the Scott Joplin House. Gloves are available; however, volunteers are encouraged to dress for messy conditions and bring water bottles to stay hydrated.

2700 Samuel Shepard Drive, Midtown, St. Louis, 314-533-5323, moreleaf.org/event/earth-day-potting-at-the-city-tree-farm

MISSOURI ARBOR DAY TREE GIVEAWAY

On April 3 and 4, the Missouri Botanical Garden is honoring Arbor Day by giving visitors a free Missouri native tree sapling from the William T. Kemper Center for Home Gardening. Kemper Center staff and members of the St. Louis Arborists Association will be on hand from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to offer planting and care tips, plus answer questions. Tree saplings are available while supplies last. Garden admission is required.

4344 Shaw Blvd., Shaw, St. Louis, 314-577-5100, missouribotanicalgarden.org/missouri-arbor-day-tree-giveaway-3326

ST. LOUIS EARTH DAY FESTIVAL IN FOREST PARK

The St. Louis Earth Day Festival returns to The Muny grounds on April 25 and 26 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The largest Earth Day festival in the Midwest, organized by earthday365, includes such programming highlights as hands-on activities, live entertainment, and learning opportunities from more than 200 local organizations, businesses, and artists. Enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, roller skating, a climbing wall, a photo booth, and a kids’ balance bike course.

1 Theatre Drive, St. Louis, 314-282-7533, earthday-365.org/festival

Story By Rob Levy | Photo by Jessica Peterson

G e et to K t Knnoow w

RETIREMENTLIFESTYLE| THEGATESWORTH

WendyBerk

Spring

Renewal

Springisintheairandit’stheperfect timetogetoutthosewalkingshoes andstartexploringtheoutdoors!And TheGatesworthismakingthateasyfor residentstostretchtheirlegsandconnectwith othersthroughbothitsgorgeous,accessible gardensandwalkingareasandshared outdooractivities.

outandenjoyingmorningwalks,socializingwith neighborsoutdoors,andgatheringinbeautiful sharedspaces.Additionally,withthecoming ofspring,residentscanonceagainexperience Berk’s“SpringintoAction”walkingclass.

“Researchhasnowshownthatoutdoor walkingimprovescardiovascularfitness,lowers bloodpressureandstrengthensmusclesmore effectivelythanindoorexercisesuchastreadmill walking,”explainsWendyBerk,fitnessinstructor atTheGatesworth.“Exposuretosunlighthelps thebodycreatevitaminDwhichisessentialfor immunehealthandstrongbones.”

Berkaddsthatbeinginnatureisprovento reduceanxiety,stressandangerwhileincreasing focusandcreativity.Evenfiveminutesofoutdoor walkingcanboostself-esteem.Therearebenefits toallpeople,regardlessofage,whentheyget outsideforaminimumof15minutesaday.

“Byprovidingthe‘SpringintoAction’class, [Ihope]manywillbeinclinedtoexperience thenumerousphysicalandmentalbenefitsthat awaitthemjustoutsidetheirdininghall,”Berk says.“Thewarmerweatherisfarmoreinviting forresidentstobeginwalkingaroundthe outdoortrail.Astheywalktheycanenjoyboth theparklikesurroundingsorstopandadmire theducksswimminginthelovelypond.”

ResidentsatTheGateswortharecertainly celebratingspringafteralongwinter,getting

Thesewalkingclasseshavebeenpraisedby residentsovertheyears,withsomethankfulfor thechancetomeetandlearnthenamesofother residentswhotheyhadseenatTheGatesworth buthadnothadtheopportunitytospeakwith, whileothersenjoyedtheopportunitytosocialize whilewalkingandappreciatedthebeautiful grounds.Andofcoursethey’reawareofthe benefitsofparticipatinginahealthyactivity.

inthelastsession,”Berkadds.“Wehad individualsonwalkers;theyparticipatedto theirabilityandwereincludedbyall.Several participantstookabreakandsatonthe benchesthatarestrategicallyplacedaround thepond.Whentheyweretired,somesatand conversedenjoyingbeingoutsideandadmired thescenery.”

Berkconcludesthatfitnessprogramsarean includedamenityatTheGatesworthsoit’seasy tostartyourspringwithabothrefreshingand socialactivity.

“Therewasarealcamaraderiethatdeveloped

“Iwouldcertainlyencourageindividualsat anyagetobeginawalkingprogram,”shesays. “Ifwewanttocontinuelivingindependentlyitis absolutelyamusttostayphysicallyandmentally fit.Thewalkingclassprovidesboth.Beginners canstartwithloopsaroundthepondandretire toTheGatesworthandgraduallybuildtheir staminaastheybecomearegularparticipant. Isay,‘Tryit!You’lllikeit!’”

TheGatesworth,OneMcKnightPlace,314-912-1569, thegatesworth.com

ByMaggiePeters |PhotoscourtesyofTheGatesworth
ResidentCarlCarlie
ResidentNancyMcEvoy

SPOTLIGHT ON SENIORS

Aberdeen Heights

575 Couch Avenue, 314-325-7416,  aberdeenseniorliving.com

in a world of infinite possibilities, there’s no better place than Aberdeen Heights to dive into retirement. Enjoy immersive events, invigorating activities, and a maintenancefree lifestyle. ready to dip your toes in?

Contact us today to discover just how good life here can be.

AccuCare Home Health Care

314-692-0020, accucare.com,   info@accucare.com

You’ve spent a lifetime taking care of everything. Now there’s help that lets you stay exactly where you want to be, home. AccuCare Home Health Care of St. louis offers personalized, private duty care that grows with your needs. locally owned, womenowned, and here for you. Call today.

Clarendale Clayton

7651 Clayton Road, 314-789-8173,  clarendaleclayton.com

Ease and energy—that’s the Clayton state of mind. With a prime address and a premium independent lifestyle, it’s possible to get personalized services, modern amenities, and the perks of city living, all with the freedom of financial flexibility. And – if you need additional care – Clarendale Clayton will have it on-site for you.

Friendship Village

15201 Olive Blvd., 636-898-8500  (Chesterfield);

12563 Village Circle Drive,   314-270-7700 (Sunset Hills);   fvstl.com

Friendship Village has spent 50 years redefining “senior moments” as moments of faith, joy, and boldness. To celebrate its 50th, residents are enjoying extra special senior moments; Joyce, Al, and Martha recently took a big leap of faith and went skydiving. Come discover the senior moments waiting for you. Schedule a tour today!

The Gatesworth

1 McKnight Place, 314-912-1569,  thegatesworth.com

The Gatesworth Fitness Center offer residents a state-of-the-art space to stay active and healthy. With expert trainers, personalized programs, and equipment for all fitness levels, residents enjoy strength training, balance exercises, and wellness classes. it’s a welcoming environment that promotes mobility, independence, and overall well-being.

McKnight Place Assisted Living & Memory Care

3 McKnight Place, 314-470-9424,  mcknightplace.com

McKnight place Assisted living & Memory Care offers a warm, supportive environment where residents can thrive with personalized care, engaging activities, and meaningful connections. locally owned and with over 30 years of experience, the community focuses on enhancing independence, wellbeing, and quality of life for seniors and peace of mind for their families.

PainRelieffrom the SpineExperts

Getbacktobeingyou,withlastingresults

Exercising,playingwiththekids,walkingthedog—don’t loseyourlittlemomentsofjoy.Fromcommonback problemstocomplexspineinjuries,ourteamisready torestoreyourmobility.

Weoffer:

•Latestinminimallyinvasivesurgicaloptions

•Comprehensiveteamofspinespecialists

•Comfortable,safehospitalsetting

•Multipleconvenientlocations

OBSERVERClever

Tongue-in-cheek artwork adds a witty touch to contemporary rooms.

Washington, D.C.-based artist, designer, and tastemaker Josh Young presents “Eugene in Blush.” The witty portrait art utilizes vibrant oil and acrylic paints, hand-applied to high-quality prints. Each piece is signed and available in 8-by-10-inch, 16-by-20-inch, and 20-by-24-inch sizes. (joshyoungdesignhouse.com)

Vanguard Furniture pulls a smart contemporary look together, anchored by the Edge drawer chest and Arras armchair. The three-drawer chest is constructed of bleached walnut solids and veneers with a light umber finish and detailed with a travertine base and accents. It’s complemented by the Arras armchair, upholstered in June Obsidian fabric with charcoal metal legs capped by antique brass ferrules. (wilsonlighting.com)

Harp and Finial’s Rocha sideboard offers convenient storage with four drawers and four doors. The 72-inch-wide sideboard is made of mango wood with a walnut finish and detailed with contemporary hardware in a warm brass finish. (harpandfinial.com)

Jointhecelebrationtohonorthe2026WomenofAchievement

MarcyBursac ♦ FamilyEnrichment

KarenDawson ♦ CommunityBetterment

TerrieDesloge ♦ NeurodiverseAdvocacy

StayceeDixson ♦ FosteringSupport

AleezaGranote ♦ FamilySupport

IvyGrant ♦ Women’sEmpowerment

JeanneSavel ♦ VeteransAdvocacy

PamelaM.Stanfield,Ed.D. ♦ SocialJustice

JulieC.Treloar ♦ CreativeComfort

HelenM.Wall ♦ HealthAdvocacy

2026WomenofAchievementAwardLuncheon

Tuesday,May19,2026

TheRitz‐Carlton,St.Louis

11:15a.m.Ballroomdoorsopen • 11:30a.m.-1:30p.m.Luncheon.Ticketsare$60each.Reservationsrequired.

MakeYourReservationsNow

www.woastl.org/register Forquestionsormoreinformation,pleasecall314-896-4692oremailwoastlouis@gmail.com.

PLATINUMSPONSORS:Elizabeth&JimBerges • Mildred,Herbert,andJulianSimonFoundation • StewardFamilyFoundation

GOLDSPONSORS:Drs.Nanci&JamesBobrow • HunterFamilyFoundation • Nancy&KenKranzberg • EnterpriseMobilityFoundation • NestléPurinaNorthAmerica NeimanMarcus • TheRitz-Carlton,St.Louis

SILVERSPONSORS:AndersAdvisors • Clark-FoxFamilyFoundation • TheGatesworth • SheilaGreenbaum&GaryWasserman • Jennifer&TomHillman Susan&DanaHockensmith • Craig&PamToder • Julie&KeithWilliams • Kathie&RichardWinter

BRONZESPONSORS:Kathy&JohnAnderson • BankofWashington • TheFoundationforBarnes-JewishHospital • Dr.CynthiaR.Bennett/CherylOrange TerryBloomberg • Boggs,Avellino,Lach&Boggs,LLC • Camilla&StephenBrauer • Debbie&DavidCaplin • CarleneDavis • TheDelmarGardensFamily Ida&GeraldEarly • FirstBank • KarenK.Goodman • GreatSouthernBank • GuardianPharmacy • AliHogan • PeggyHolly • Margaret&MartinIsrael DianeKatzman • DianeGershmanLevine • NoémiNeidorff • NISAInvestmentAdvisors • MarianNunn • Dr.GwendolynPacknett ParksideFinancialBankandTrust • Dr.Rick&Mrs.ChristinePennell • LindaJaneRiekes • PeggyRitter • MarySchoolman BarbaraLangsamShuman&MichaelShuman • StinsonLLP • St.LouisUniversity • TheSt.LouisChapterofAUSA • CassieStrom&DanGeorge TechnologyPartners • Carol&TomVoss • BonnieSummersWolfarth

Renewing Enchantment

When Emily Murphy of Emily  Hall Interiors stepped foot into  the living room of this Clayton  home, it became clear the  space didn’t need reinvention – only revival.

At first, the rooms felt dark and a  bit heavy. “The natural light was being  swallowed by black window trim,  deep paint colors, and bulky window  treatments,” she explains. “However, there  were so many beautiful original elements:  the leaded glass windows, the arched  openings, the molding details … but none  of them were being highlighted. It was  one of those homes where the charm was

all there; we just needed to bring it back  to life.”

Murphy began by making the walls  and window trim lighter and rethinking  furniture scale. “We allowed the  architecture to breathe and brought in  pieces that elevated the character rather  than competing with it,” she says. The  result is an uplifting, soft space, where  every detail is intentional. “Color played  a big role: muted blues, romantic corals,  cheerful yellows, and rich navies helped  define each space while still keeping  everything cohesive.”

Murphy selected a neutral sofa, colorful  pillows, and a blue hide for the stools to  play off the home’s art, which was painted  by the owner. “Each piece works because

it respects the home’s architecture while  adding personality,” she says. “This is one  of those projects that reminds me why  I love what I do. Seeing a historic home  regain its brightness, charm, and warmth,  and watching it evolve into a place that  truly supports the way the family lives – it’s  incredibly rewarding.”

It also serves as a rather beautiful  reminder for Murphy: Great design doesn’t  require erasing character but rather  enhancing it. “This home had such a  beautiful story already; our job was simply  to help it shine,” Murphy says. “Our clients  trusted the vision wholeheartedly, which  always leads to the best outcome!”

Emily Hall Interiors, emilyhallinteriors.com

photo by Megan lorenz, courtesy of Emily Hall interiors

FREYA Cosmic Rodeo cashmere sweater wrap scarf, $295, Hearth & Soul (hearthandsoul.com)

SIMKHAI Analise bustier midi dress, $545, Nieman Marcus

CABALLERO COLLECTION

Riley top, $228, Ivy Hill

Eye on the

SKY

Powder blue is the hue of early spring, and it feels fresh and airy as we move into April.

ELLEME Dimple tote in light blue, $522, Tuckernuck (tnuck.com)

V-neck dress in lotus print, $228, J.Crew (jcrew.com)

VERVET The ‘Super HR Drawstring Floral Den’ jean, $88, Cha Boutique (shop-cha.com)

CINQ A SEPT Nataly denim puff-sleeve mini dress, $395, Neiman Marcus, (neimanmarcus.com)

Back Bay blouse, $189, Rungolee, (rungolee.com)

STREETS AHEAD AZ belt in cognac, $375, Hearth & Soul

PERFECT WHITE TEE

Rebecca sweatshirt in navy stripe, $130, Ivy Hill

AGOLDE Parker long shorts in Swapmeet wash, $158, Tuckernuck

MARC FISHER Godea flats in light blue, $160, Tuckernuck

MARLYN SCHIFF Maya beaded necklace/ bracelet, $98, Ivy Hill Boutique (ivyhillboutique.com)

voile bandana short in paisley print, $69.50, J.Crew

Cotton
Lola cotton midi dress, $348, Rungolee

No Boring Birthdays

Entertaining kids can be a challenge at any age – especially as  they grow up and become too cool for character cakes. Local  mom Jamean Flowers, owner of Kidz Play STL (kidzplaystl.com),  often sees a shift in kids becoming more opinionated about  their birthday parties between ages 7 and 9. “[That’s] when kids really  start caring about the vibe of their party. They’re more aware of trends,  aesthetics, and what their friends will think,” Flowers says. “By 10 to  13, they typically want strong input – and honestly, giving them guided  autonomy works beautifully.”

Consider this inspiration for guiding kids toward the birthday bash   of their dreams.

TODDLERS & KIDS

Embrace cute themes that reflect your little’s current obsession.  Kidz Play’s soft-play packages are customizable to match any theme and  provide a fun, safe space for wobbly toddlers who like to climb. Level  up with a Bounce + Bash Co. bouncer (instagram.com/bounceandbashco),  colorful balloons, and a coordinating photo backdrop. Elementary-age  kids will burn energy on a bouncer of any size, but consider the sizable  lineup at The Bounce House Company (stlbouncehouse.com), which rents  out inflatable obstacle courses, bouncers with slides, and more.

For young creatives, inquire about Kidz Play’s craft packages – many of  which Flowers designed to accommodate kids with sensory sensitivities.  A trending craft lately is the build-your-own fairy garden that combines  interests in the outdoors, art, and character figurines. “It’s an ideal activity  for children ages 4 to 7, allowing them to decorate fairy houses with paint,  glitter, stones, and stickers,” describes Maja Leonoudakis-Becker of Party  Animal STL (instagram.com/partyanimalstl).

TWEENS & TEENS

Flowers encourages parents and guardians to let their preteens  choose a theme or “energy” for their party – think sporty, glamorous,  adventurous, or creative – and offer two or three curated options instead  of unlimited choices. “It keeps them empowered without overwhelming  them,” she says. Ask: “What do you and your friends love right now? Do  you want something high-energy or more chill? Do you want everyone  doing one big activity together or at stations?”

Bounce + Bash recently worked with Flowers to bring a “TenTok”  party to life that featured balloon installations with the TikTok logo and  colors, bright marquee letters from Alpha-Lit St. Louis (alphalitletters.com/ st-louis), a Glow Booth photo op (glowbooths.com), and creative stations by  Kidz Play.

Leaning into interests also inspires exciting activities: Play soccer  or capture the flag with Knockerball St. Louis’ human-sized inflatable  balls (knockerballstlouis.com), or if limited on space, create a sports barlike environment to watch a few games with snacks and sodas. Stylish  partygoers will appreciate an opportunity to craft custom hats and jackets  with iron-on patches or accessorize an item with charms – both popular  options offered by Kidz Play and Party Animal STL.

photo by Hillary Donnelley, courtesy of party Animal STl
photo courtesy of Bounce + Bash Co

WealthandInvestmentManagement

SecuritiesareofferedthroughStewardPartnersInvestmentSolutions,LLC(“SPIS”),registeredbroker/dealer,memberFINRA/SIPC.InvestmentadvisoryservicesareofferedthroughSteward PartnersInvestmentAdvisory,LLC(“SPIA”),anSEC-registeredinvestmentadviser.SPIS,SPIA,andStewardPartnersGlobalAdvisory,LLCareaffiliatesandcollectivelyreferredtoas StewardPartners.

RepresentativesofPlazaAdvisoryGroup,Inc.areregisteredwithandprovidesecuritiesand/oradvisoryservicesthroughStewardPartners.

TheuseoftheCDFAdesignationdoesnotpermittherenderingoflegaladvicebyStewardPartnersoritsWealthManagerswhichmayonlybedonebyalicensedattorney.TheCDFA designationisnotintendedtoimplythateitherStewardPartnersoritsWealthManagersareactingasexpertsinthisfield.

CertifiedFinancialPlannerBoardofStandards,Inc.(CFPBoard)ownsthecertificationmarkCFP®,whichitauthorizesuseofbyindividualswhosuccessfullycompleteCFPBoard’sinitial andongoingcertificationrequirements.

SecuritiesandinvestmentadvisoryservicesofferedthroughStewardPartnersInvestmentSolutions,LLC,registeredbroker/dealer,memberFINRA/SIPC, andSECregisteredinvestmentadviser.InvestmentAdvisoryServicesmayalsobeofferedthroughStewardPartnersInvestmentAdvisory,LLC,anSEC registeredinvestmentadviser.StewardPartnersInvestmentSolutions,LLC,StewardPartnersInvestmentAdvisory,LLC,andStewardPartnersGlobal Advisory,LLCareaffiliatesandseparatelyoperated.PlazaAdvisoryGroup,Inc.isateamatStewardPartnersandisindependentlyownedandoperated. TheuseoftheCDFAdesignationdoesnotpermittherenderingoflegaladvicebyStewardPartnersoritsWealthManagerswhichmayonlybedonebya licensedattorney.TheCDFAdesignationisnotintendedtoimplythateitherStewardPartnersoritsWealthManagersareactingasexpertsinthisfield.

MarthaGuyer CFP®,CDFA® WealthManager
JudyRubin,CFP®,CDFA®
WhiteyHolt CFP®,CDFA® WealthManager

‘Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead’

The passing in late 2025 of Tom  Stoppard, perhaps the greatest  English-language playwright in the  last 60 years, helped bring about  the upcoming collaboration of the St. Louis  Shakespeare Festival and Albion Theatre. The  two local professional theater companies are  joining forces to produce “Rosencrantz and  Guildenstern are Dead” at the Kranzberg Black  Box Theatre from March 26 to April 11.

Shakespeare Festival artistic director Tom  Ridgely says that Stoppard’s passing didn’t spur  the idea of a collaboration with Albion Theatre  directly, “but I do think that was a pretty big  part of it. It was our producer Colin O’Brien’s  idea originally, and it was only a few weeks after  Stoppard had passed. Arguably the greatest  living playwright when he died, and this was  arguably his masterpiece.”

Ridgely notes that “as soon as we got  serious about the idea of doing it, I thought of  Robert [Ashton, artistic director,] and Albion.

We share a board member, Monica Allen. …  It seemed natural, given [Albion’s] focus on  British writers.”

Ashton reports he and Ridgely did “talk about  possible ways to cooperate, although we did  work in very different theatrical environments  – the Festival mainly in large outdoor spaces  and Albion in a 60-seat, black box theater.  We did share a theme of producing plays by  British playwrights.”

“Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead”  focuses on two minor characters described  as “courtiers, friends of Hamlet,” in The  Bard’s enduring tragedy, which Shakespeare  Festival mounted last year to celebrate its  25th anniversary.

“The way the two plays interact is extremely  precise and funny,” Ridgely notes. “A good  amount of the Stoppard play is direct quotations  from Shakespeare, and the rest imagines  what might have been happening while these  relatively minor characters were offstage.”

Stoppard, whose canon includes “Arcadia,”  “Leopoldstadt,” “Road to Utopia,” “Travesties,”  and many others, “is viewed by many as one  of the greatest playwrights in English of the  modern era,” says Ashton. “His ability to  look at complex philosophical and scientific  issues in an understandable and engaging way  is exceptional. His earlier works reflect the  influence of [Irish playwright and poet Samuel]  and other absurdist/existentialist writers as well  as musical hall [or vaudeville].”

The joint presentation, says Ridgely, “has been  a great collaboration. The great thing about these  partnerships is that you end up with something  completely different – and much better – than  you could have ever come up with on your own.”

For tickets and additional information about “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead,” visit stlshakes.org/production/rosencrantz. For information about Albion Theatre, visit albiontheatrestl.org.

Mark Bretz | photo courtesy of the Shakespeare Festival St. louis

DreamwithoutlimitsatClarendaleClayton.Withaprimeaddressandapremium independentlifestyle,it’spossibletogetpersonalizedservices,modern amenities,andtheperksofcityliving,allwiththefreedomoffinancialflexibility. And–ifyouneedadditionalcare–wehaveitrighthereon-siteforyou.

Embraceawelcomingfutureatthecenterofitall,today. TOLEARNMORE,CALL314-789-8173ORSCANTHEQRCODE.

Gin Room

On South Grand, Persian cuisine crafted from generations of timetested recipes has returned to The Gin Room. In January, mother  and daughter duo Hamishe and Natasha Bahrami rejoined forces  at the Tower Grove East mainstay following Hamishe’s retirement  in 2022.

After a fulfilling few years of traveling and exploring hobbies at home,  Hamishe longed to cook for friends and fans again. “That’s what makes me  happy,” she says. “Coming back to work, I’m seeing people I haven’t seen  for a long time, and that’s the best part. It’s like having my family back.”

The Bahramis have contributed to the area’s food and beverage scene  for more than 40 years. In 1983, Hamishe opened her first restaurant, The  Little Kitchen, in downtown St. Louis with her late husband Behshid. Ten  years later, the married couple debuted Café Natasha on Delmar Boulevard,  later relocating the business to South City  – where Natasha opened The Gin Room as a  counterpart to the dining concept in 2013.

Natasha and her husband, Michael  Fricker, operated the restaurant side of  the business as Salve Osteria from 2022  until recently, when Hamishe made a  triumphant comeback. For the closeknit family members, the heartwarming  welcome from the community has felt like  a joyous homecoming. Former patrons  from near and far have returned to taste  many of their favorites from Café Natasha,  now available as The Gin Room’s regular  food offerings.

The powerhouse female-led team cooks up scratch-made Iranian  signatures alongside The Gin Room’s extensive education-focused beverage  program, which includes 400-plus gin options. “Think of comfort food like  steak and potatoes but it’s beef kabobs and rice,” Natasha says. “Once you  have it, you feel like you’ve been missing it your whole life.”

In addition to mouthwatering marinated and spiced kabobs, the “Eats.  By Mom” menu features specialties such as succulent braised lamb biryani  combined with fragrant cumin seed, chickpeas, caramelized onions,  and jus. “It’s a bowl of happiness,” Natasha says. Like many others, she’s  delighted to see delicious dishes – including her mother’s famous beef  tongue, housemade tart yogurt dip, lentil soup, and walnut baklava – back  on the bill of fare.

At its heart, this incarnation of The Gin Room reestablishes what the  Bahramis have always done best, serving  wholesome, memorable meals and  libations with the same warmth the family  has always extended to their guests.

“Having the community we’ve been a  part of for so long come back and embrace  us has been more than we could have ever  expected,” Natasha says. “St. Louis has been  so massively supportive, and I feel like with  all that’s going on in the world, it’s just  good to have this [energy back in it].”

The Gin Room, 3200 S. Grand Blvd., Tower Grove East, St. Louis, 314-771-3411, natashasginroom.com

Story and photos by Mabel Suen The

UCP HEARTLAND

“Where Hope Blooms” gala

UCP Heartland held its annual gala “Where Hope Blooms” in early March at the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac hotel. Guests enjoyed a cocktail hour while bidding on silent auction items, a jewelry package and golden ticket drawing. Once entering the ballroom for dinner, Guy Phillips, the night’s emcee, welcomed guests along with Jane Kaiser, the interim president and CEO for UCP Heartland. During dinner, the Heart of the Community Award was presented to Kevin Ortmeyer and Janet Ortmeyer

This year’s gala leadership was chaired by Andrew Gillentine, in loving memory of Lauren Gillentine The live auction, mission moment and Fund-A-Need helped to raise money for UCP Heartland and its 72-year mission to provide services for individuals living with differing abilities.

“We

are so grateful to all our guests and partners who joined us in support of UCP Heartland’s 2026 ‘Where Hope Blooms’ gala. The evening was a beautiful celebration of our mission, our remarkable community, and our outstanding honorees. At UCP Heartland, we believe in a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, and we are deeply thankful for those who help make that vision a reality.”

Alyssa Hunsaker, Clara Lopez, Carter Gloyd, Jennings Randolph
Keetra Thompson, Cassie Sumpter
Kevin and Janet Ortmeyer
Donna Beeson, Dante Duvall Jessica Cinquemani, Mike Poland, Carolyn Dowd
Story and photos by Christina Kling-Garrett
Greg Hewitt, Guy phillips
Mary Ellen Cotsworth, Bill Siedhoff
Emily Steinhoff, Kristin rohlfing, Julie Fitzer, rich Fitzer
Alyssa Hunsaker, Clara lopez, Carter Gloyd, Jennings randolph
Jennifer Bierling, Jeff Eichholz Judy and Natalia Mueller
Barry Morrison, Shaelene plank
Wes and Erin Mellow
Marcos redon, Mason Steele

BETTER Together

Peter Kinsella, Rachel Covington, Dan Reynolds
Connie Mitchell
Photos courtesy of the Nonprofit Synergy Alliance

In 2023, three St. Louis leaders in nonprofit development realized the organizations they lead could bring more benefit to many clients by coordinating their service offerings together versus working individually.

By collaborating, they hope to help enhance and support the St. Louis area’s nonprofit offerings through the Nonprofit Synergy Alliance.

“We recognized that each of our organizations was serving the nonprofit community in distinct but highly complementary ways. We saw an opportunity to bring those strengths together in a more intentional collaboration,” says Rachel Covington, executive director of Community Value Alliance, one of three partner organizations that formed the Nonprofit Synergy Alliance.

Together with Peter Kinsella, executive director of Mission Realty Advisors, and Dan Reynolds, president of Holmes Radford & Reynolds, Covington says the Nonprofit Synergy Alliance offers nonprofits a more comprehensive range of support, “from organizational formation and business operations to feasibility studies, fundraising strategy, and facility solutions. Rather than expecting nonprofits to navigate multiple providers on their own, we wanted to create a more coordinated, streamlined approach.”

Covington’s expertise is in strategic planning, organizational development, major gifts, and board building. Kinsella brings experience

in real estate and strategic facility development. Reynolds specializes in fund development plans, annual fund programs, and capacity building initiatives.

To access services through the alliance, organizations in St. Louis and the broader region begin by sharing information about their needs through the alliance’s website where the request is directed to one or more appropriate partner organizations. “Clients typically seek assistance with a wide range of challenges, including strategic and organizational planning, operational improvements, fundraising strategy, feasibility studies, and facility-related needs,” Reynolds says. The cost for services is set below market rates, he adds.

In essence, the alliance offers one-stop shopping for nonprofits seeking assistance in growth and planning. “We work collaboratively through [the alliance] to evaluate incoming inquiries, understand the full scope of a nonprofit’s needs, and connect that organization with the partner, or combination of partners, best equipped to provide the right solutions,” says Kinsella. “This structure allows us to preserve our individual areas of expertise while offering nonprofits the benefit of a coordinated, teambased approach.”

For instance, a nonprofit may need assistance with fundraising strategy, assessing organizational capacity, improving operations, or planning for facility needs. The alliance will align these services so the organization receives guidance based on a coordinated approach rather than individual silos.

Examples of this collaborative model already exist through the alliance’s burgeoning portfolio: Mission Realty Advisors partnered with Holmes Radford & Reynolds on work for the R&R Marketplace and the Miriam School and Learning Center, and all three organizations are aiding Kinetic Tapestry Physical Theatre.

One specific area of focus for the alliance is in nonprofit mergers. “Nonprofits face increasing pressure to operate efficiently, strengthen sustainability, and reduce duplication of services. A well-planned merger can improve financial stability, expand program impact, and increase organizational reach,” Covington says. “Beyond those benefits, mergers can build capacity by bringing together complementary expertise, networks, and infrastructure. While mergers are not the right solution in every case, they’re becoming a more frequent and important consideration in the nonprofit sector.”

Covington, Kinsella, and Reynolds want nonprofit leaders to know the alliance is ready to help streamline assistance through its efficient and affordable model. “Instead of spending time and resources searching for multiple providers, organizations can come to one place for coordinated expertise that saves both time and money while helping them build longterm strength and impact,” Covington says.

Nonprofit Synergy Alliance, 4220 Duncan Ave., Suite 201, St. Louis, 314-308-8038, nonprofitsynergyalliance.com

Jazz St. Louis photo by Holmes Radford & Reynolds
St. Andrew’s Charitable Foundation photo by Community Value Alliance
R&R Marketplace photo by Mission Realty Advisors

Countries byAge15

ONAPRIL18,ALADUEMIDDLESCHOOLSTUDENT WILLVISITHIS50THCOUNTRY.THENEXTDAY,HE WILLCATCHTHEINAUGURALNONSTOPFLIGHT FROMLONDONTOST.LOUIS.

Bethany Christo | Photos courtesy of Mimi Vo

Thenumberstellthestory: Beforeheturns15thisfall, NinhCaowillvisithis50th country,havingtakenmore than170flights,logged morethan240,000miles,andcircled theglobenearly10timesover.Adding tothoseimpressivestatsisthefactthat NinhCaowillnotchthismilestonethe daybeforeflyingbackontheinaugural BritishAirwaysnonstopflightfrom London’sHeathrowAirporttoLambert InternationalAirportonSunday,April19.

NinhCao,aneighth-graderatLadue MiddleSchool,isanaviationandrailway enthusiast.Heinformedhismother,Mimi Vo,aboutthenewdirectflightoffering andaskedifhecouldbeattheairport whentheplanetoucheddown.“When IsawitwasflyingintoSt.Louisona weekendday,Iknewitwouldbeaperfect Christmasgiftforhim,”MimiVosays.

She,herson,andhisfriendQuinn–alsoanaviationbuff–willflytoLondon theThursdayprior(connectingthrough Charlotte,NorthCarolina)andstay neartheairportsotheboyscanwatch planestakeoffandland.Theyplantosee London’smainattractionsviaaniconic

London,England

double-deckerbustourbeforerentinga carandcrossingtheEnglishChannelby ferrytoseeDunkirk,followedbyNinh Cao’s50thcountry,Belgium.

NinhCaotraveledtoLondonand Francewhenhewasjust5yearsold andagainlastsummeronaEurotrip. “ThereasonwewentwhenIwas5was becauseIwasobsessedwithBigBen; IhadaLegosetofit,”NinhCaosays. They’llflybackhomeSundayonthe flagshipBritishAirwaysflight.

MimiVoandherhusband,ShawnCao, bothtravelenthusiaststhemselves,took NinhCaoonhisfirstroadtripatjust2 weeksoldtoChicago,Illinois,followed fourweekslaterbyhisfirstflightto Houston,Texas.Byage1,NinhCaoloved tocarryaroundamodelKLMplane,and byage2,hehadenteredatrainphase.

“Westartedtotraveljustforhimto seetrains,”MimiVosays.“We’dresearch trainandrailhotspots,andmyhusband andIbecamerailroadenthusiaststooas aresult.”Eventually,NinhCaostarteda YouTubechanneldocumentingthetrains ofhistravels,calledAroundtheWorld Railfan.Hismostpopularvideonowhas 87,000viewsandcounting.

OnecouldargueNinhCaowasdestined fortraveleveninutero.MimiVo,a

WatchNinhCao’smostviralvideoofHanoiTrain Street–wheretrainstrundlethroughtheOld QuarterinVietnamsoclosetocafésthatyou mustpullbackyourcoffeewhentheypass–by scanningtheQRcode.

physicianwhonowownstheSt.Louis CitymedspaMiaVidaAestheticsand Wellness,struggledtobecomepregnant withherfirstson.Aftergivingbirth, sheexperiencedinvasivethoughts, havingseenhershareofsickchildren asapractitioner,aswellashighlevels ofpostpartumanxietyaboutkeeping hernewbabyalive,outofdanger,and healthy.She’dalsoheardafewhorror storiesfromherfather,apediatrician andemergencyroomdirector.

“However,wheneverwetraveled,Ilet goalittlebit,”MimiVosays.“BecauseI hadtoletgo,Ninhreachedmilestones hecouldn’thaveathome,liketrying newfoodsordiapertrainingorweaning offthepacifier–thingsIdidn’thavethe strengthtodobecauseofalltheanxiety Ihadathome.”

Afewyearslater,shegotpregnant withtwinsTienandDuy(now10years old)andthoughtthatwastheendofthe

road,literally,forroadtripsaroundthe U.S.andcross-countryflights.Eventually, though,MimiVorealizeditwasallabout shiftinghermindset–treatingfrustrations aslearningopportunities,seeingobstacles aspuzzlessheandherkidscouldwork outtogether,andviewinginevitable traveldelaysaschancestoleanintothe journeypartoftravelingratherthanthe destination.Infact,sheprefersflights withextendedconnectionsandtaking extradaysbeforeandafterlong-haul flightstonotonlysavemoneybutalso explorenewpartsoftheworld.

“WevisitfamilyinVietnam,...[and] oneofthetimes,wewentfromthereto Malaysiaforaday,thenMalaysiatothe Maldivesforacoupledaysbeforeweflew backhome,”MimiVosays.“Onanother triptoVietnam,westoppedinDoha, Qatar.”Whenthekidswereyounger,she wouldseekflightswithalongconnection atLAXAirport,rentacarfortheday,

Dubai,UnitedArabEmirates

anddrivetothebeachtoburnoffsome energybeforereturningtotheairportlate atnighttocatchared-eyetoVietnam.

Inadditiontoherpersonalexperience withimprovingheranxiety,asa physician,MimiVoisdeeplyfamiliarwith theimpacttravelcanhaveonpeople’s healthandwell-being.Shecitesastudy fromtheJournalofAmericanMedical Associationaboutwomenwhovacation twiceayearbeingeighttimeslesslikely todevelopheartdiseaseaswellasstudies whichshowthattravelreducesstress hormones;improvesyourmood,focus, clarity,andsleepquality;andlowersthe rateofheartattacks.

Tothatend,thefamilyrecently returnedhomefroma10-dayspring breaktripbackpackinginCentral AmericainMarch–whichincluded activitiessuchassandboardingand campingoutinanactivevolcanoin Nicaragua,fishinginthePanamaCanal,

waterrappellinginCostaRica,andhiking theSantaAnavolcanoinElSalvador’s CerroVerdeNationalPark.

Theyhaveplansonthebookstofly toSingaporethissummertonotchNinh Cao’s51stcountry,followedbyatwoweekstopinVietnamandquickerstops inthePhilippines(52nd)andTaiwan (53rd).Ofallhis240,000-plusmiles aroundtheglobe,NinhCaocitesSpain asoneofhismostmemorable,withits beautifularchitectureandincrediblefood scene.Ofthe50countries,hesaidhe’d firstgobacktoBrazilandalsorevisit hisrootsandfamilialtiesathispaternal grandparents’homeinVietnam.

Allthesame,NinhCaoisnotignoring hiscurrentlandingbase:“WhenIturn16, I’mgoingtotrytogetmyprivatepilot’s license,”hesays.“Butasavocation, Iwanttodocivilengineeringforthe railwaystoencouragetraintravelinthe UnitedStates.”

Cambodia
RockclimbingCátBàIslandinVietnam
CâmPha,Vietnam
Maldives

GO

GETIT

Opportunitiesaboundtopursueafashion careerinSt.Louis–buttobesuccessful inacompetitiveindustry,it’scrucialto diversifyyourskillset.

Workinginfashioncanseemaloftycareergoalforsome –anideadreamtupafterwatchingtoomanyepisodes of“ProjectRunway.”InSt.Louishowever,it’sareality that’sbecomingmorefeasiblethankstovarious educationalinstitutionsandfashionnonprofits. Inthelastdecadeortwo,St.Louishasreemergedasafashioncitywhere designers,stylists,andotherindustryprofessionalsarefindingitlucrativeto plantrootshere.Theyworkwithclientsallovertheworldanddobusiness inmajorfashioncitieslikeNewYork,yettheyenjoylowercostsoflivingfor theirteammembersandatight-knit,supportiveMidwestcommunity.

OrganizationsliketheSaintLouisFashionFund (saintlouisfashionfund.org), STLFashionAlliance (stlfashionalliance.org),andFashionGroupInternational ofSaintLouis (fgi.org/saint-louis) havebeenintegralinbuildingthis communityandanetworkofresources,whichtendtobelessaccessible inlarger,morecompetitivecities.EducationalinstitutionsinSt.Louis recognizefashiondesignasaviablepath,butdegreeprogramshave evolvedtobetterpreparestudentsforenteringtheindustrythroughother rolesaswell.

“Oneofthewaystoworkinfashionislearningthebusinesssideofthe industry,soweteachabusinessfundamentalcoursethatisrequiredinthe BusinessoftheArtsminorinconjunctionwiththefashionprogram,”says TimothySolberg,theacademicdirectorofWashingtonUniversity’sBusiness oftheArtsprogram (olin.washu.edu/programs).“Wehaveguidedstudents infindingjobsthroughouralumninetworkmentorprogram,especiallyin NewYork,andwiththeterrificsupportoftheSaintLouisFashionFund’s SusanSherman.”

TheWashUSamFoxSchool (samfoxschool.washu.edu) offersbachelor’s degreeprogramsforfashiondesign,andtheWashUOlinBusinessSchool offersajointBusinessoftheArtsprogram.Studentsworkonpracticum or“experientiallearning”projectswithfashioncompaniesandpartner

withOlinbusinessstudents“toformateamthattacklesbothcreativeand commercialaspectsofafashionproject,”Solbergdescribes.

AtStevens–TheInstituteofBusiness&Arts (siba.edu),studentspursue ahighereducationintheheartofSt.Louis’GarmentDistrictonWashington Avenue.Studentscanearnan18-monthoccupationalassociatedegreeora 36-monthbachelor’sdegreeinFashionDevelopment&Merchandising.

“ThereareseveralgoodfashionprogramsinSt.Louis,butoursisnota design-basedprogram,”saysLynneWasson,theSibadepartmentheadof FashionDevelopment&Merchandising.“Thisideaofimbuingthestudents withabroadexposuretothevariousaspectsandpartsoftheindustry–understandingthingsfromrawmaterialstoproductiontechniques tosourcing–isreallyimportantintermsofgettingajob.Acareer,I shouldsay.”

InOctober,Sibafashionstudentsledbystylistand“fashionpreneur” AKBrownrevivedtheschool’sWashingtonAvenuefashionshow,nowcalled Zipper&Stitch,toshowcaselocaldesignersandgivestudentsmorehands-on experienceinallareasoffashionshowproduction.Wassonhopesitbecomes anannualshow,butregardlessofwhetheritreturnsthisyear,Sibacontinues toconnectstudentstorelevantexperiencesacrossthemetroarea.

BretSchnitker,CEOandpresidentofStarsDesignGroup

CarolinaHerrera’screativedirectorWesGordonexaminesaWashUstudent’sdesign. PhotobySuzyGormanforSLFF

WesGordonwithSt.LouisMayorCaraSpencer,journalistDerekBlasberg,andsupermodelKarlieKlossatthe SaintLouisFashionFund’s2025speakerseries.PhotobySuzyGormanforSLFF

(starsdesigngroup.com) headquarteredinSt.Louis,agreesthat,inaddition totalentandessentialskillslike3Ddesign,diversifyingone’sknowledgeis thekeytosucceedingintoday’sfashionindustry.Heencouragesemerging professionalstostudyartificialintelligenceandsustainabilityasitrelatesto fashionforanedgeinthejobsmarket.InstructorsatbothWashUandSiba areaddressingthesetopics,withsustainabilitybeingasignificantfocusof discussionoverthepastfewyearsandAIaneweraspectofcurriculum.

“Ourbusiness…isevolving,especiallywhenthere’sbig conversationsaboutsustainability,andyoungpeoplearereallyfocused onsolvingsustainability,”Schnitkeracknowledges.“Someofthatisin newtechnologiesandmaterials,whichwe’rereallyadvocatingfor.”

HollyCampbell,seniorvicepresidentofmarketingandcreativefor FamousFootwear,believesthat“abachelor’sdegreeiscriticalandprovides animportantfoundationofknowledgethatpreparescandidatesfor entry-levelrolesandlong-termgrowth.”FamousFootwearisownedby Caleres (caleres.com),aglobalshoecompanyheadquarteredinSt.Louis, whichbenefitsfromateamwithdegreesinproductdesign,marketing, communications,graphicdesign,andbusiness.Thoseaspiringtowork infashionmayalsopursuerolesinbeauty,photography,film,andsocial mediainfluencing.Thefieldisvast,andtherearemixedopinionsonthe necessityofacollegedegree.

Developingabackgroundinfashionstartsinhighschoolforsome. ThroughthefashiondesignprogramatNorthTechHighSchool (northtech.ssdmo.org) inFlorissant,studentsearnhighschoolcredit

FashionbusinesspanelattheSTLFAHighSchoolFashionSummit.PhotocourtesyoftheSTLFashionAlliance
StudentsattendingtheSTLFAHighSchoolFashionSummit.PhotobyAriDuel

andaFashion,Textiles,andApparelCertificationfromtheAmerican AssociationofFamily&ConsumerSciences.

TheSTLFashionAllianceisgrowingitshighschoolprogrammingwhile continuingtosupportcollegestudentsandprofessionals.Lastyear,the nonprofitlauncheditsSTLFAHighSchoolFashionSummit,“afulldayof inspiration,education,andreal-worldfashioninsights,”whichwillreturn thisOctober.“Wehad150studentsandteachersshowup.Wehad[more than]40fashionprofessionalsvolunteertheirtime,”executivedirector AudraHarrolddetails.“Wehadacollegeandbusinessfairwherethe studentscouldtalktoprofessionalsthatareactuallydoingit.”

“Actuallydoingit,”orworkinginfashionspaces,isimperative.Thosewho areseriousaboutafashioncareermustseekinternshipsandmentorships aswellasattendeventsintheareatostartmakingconnections.Following STLFA,SaintLouisFashionFund,andFashionGroupInternationalofSt.Louis onsocialmediaisaneasywaytostayup-to-dateonthelatesthappenings, scholarships,andmentorshipopportunities.

“Youhavetotryitallout.Youhavetomaketheconnections.Youhave tosendtheemails.Youhavetoworkforit,”saysDreaRanek,ownerand co-founderofLussoandLussoStyle.“It’salsoreallyfun,andyounever knowwhoyou’regoingtomeet,whatconnectionyou’regoingtomake,or whereyou’regoingtoendup.”

“Findthepeoplethatinspireyouintheindustry,andaskthem questions,”addsEmilyLane,chiefstrategyofficeratStarsDesignGroup. “Withalittleinitiative,youcangoalongway.”

WesGordon(picturedcenter)withstudentsofWashU’sSamFoxSchool.PhotobySuzyGormanforSLFF

• Serviceavailableforallmakes andmodelsofhottubs.

• Complimentaryin-storepool andspawatertesting.

• Wecarryafulllineofspa chemicals.

• Weeklymaintenanceand cleaningservices.

Hours: 9-5M-F,10-4Sat,ClosedSun 314-965-0660• miragespa.com

FOLLOWLADUENEWS. @laduenewsonX

LIKELADUENEWS. facebook.com/laduenews PINWITHUS. pinterest.com/laduenews

SHAREWITHUS. @laduenewsonInstagram

LADUE NEWS CLASSIFIEDS

Walktobeach3BR/2/BA2365sqftbeautifulranchhome. 1.5milesto5thAve.SouthOldNaplesshopping& restaurants.1MilefromnewlyopenedFourSeasonsHotel/ SunsetBeachBar.Professionallylandscaped½acrelot, Heatedpool&Spa,fullyequippedkitchen,screened-in lanai,washer/dryer,internet,garage,fencedyard.Dogs welcomeuponowners’approval. Formoreinformation,pleasecallSherri314-276-7437

Wemakehouseandbankcalls.

Call314-620-3550 or tropssiecares@gmail.com

YOURTREESDESERVE THEBESTCARE 314-725-6159 INSURED gammatree.com

(FormerlyMizzouCrewSince2004) Pruning Fertilization Spraying Trimming Removal

HOMECARE

30yearsexperience availablenow! Providing12hrshifts& live-inpersonalcarefor Alzheimer,Parkinson,Hospice &StrokePatients

Jeff314-520-5222 jeffbakerandsons.com

Trustworthy,exceptional workerw/car&insurance. Drsreferences, police&familycheck CallMary314-906-4443LM

Electrical,Carpentry, Flooring,Windows, Plumbing,Painting,Tile&Lots More!QualityGuaranteed! Reasonable,Insured,References. NoJobTooSmall! 314-205-1555 jonsaffordablehomrepair.com

LADUE NEWS SERVICE

SCRUBBYDUTCH

LADUE NEWS SERVICE DIRECTORY

Stay Connected

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook