Issuu

AUGUST 2020

CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

Kids & Animals

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

AUGUST 2020 PUBLISHER

Kelley Lamm | kelley.lamm@lifestylepubs.com Gordon Montgomery | gordon.montgomery@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Too Cute to Handle THIS ISSUE IS QUITE THE TREAT -- AND NOT JUST DOG TREATS! We rounded up details about cute kids, pets and working dogs in our area, including those who support them and where to take them. Brace yourself; they all may be too cute to handle.

Miranda Williams LAYOUT DESIGNER

Emily Lisenbee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Julie Brown Patton, Kathleen Kaiser, Judy Peters, Nicolette Martin CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

But first, we wanted to flag your attention to a change in one of Clayton's flagship

Kathleen Kaiser, Elaine Collins

annual events: the Saint Louis Art Fair. This year's art fair, which will be Sept. 11-13, will be offered as a virtual event on the website SaintLouisArtFair.com. We know the organizers wanted to carry on the 27-year tradition, but due to COVID-19 and public safety importance, adjusting the fair's activities to an online forum was the right choice. Please join us in supporting them, just in a new way this year. We identified several nonprofits that either help form dog-human partnerships, provide supplies for daily living (even during this recent pandemic lockdown), or give foster children a home at a time when they need most.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

You can take the whole family, including the four-legged ones, to Skyview Drive-In.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

We can’t wait for you to get to know the interesting things highlighted in this August

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

edition -- it is officially the end of the Dog Days of Summer, you know.

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Publishers, Gordon Montgomery & Kelley Lamm-Montgomery Join publishers Gordon & Kelley each Saturday morning, 10 a.m to noon on 590-AM KFNS The Fan and through your phone app at 590 with the She SAID He SAID show to have some laughs and hear from individuals, charities and businesses making a difference in the community.

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ON THE COVER Rani and her baby Priya PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY THE ST. LOUIS ZOO 4

Clayton Lifestyle | August 2020

CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

Proverbs 3:5-6 Clayton Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Clayton areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Clayton Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE AUGUST 2020

FEATURES 20 Saint Louis Art Fair Presented By Centene Charitable Foundation Goes Virtual For 2020 September 11th, 12th & 13th

26 CHAMP Assistance Dogs Empowering Individuals With Disabilities By Creating CanineHuman Partnerships

20 28

28 Saint Louis Zoo’s Cassandra Brown Ray Inspirational Leader & Role Model for Her Children

DEPARTMENTS

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Healthy Lifestyle

Inspired By

20 Artist’s Palette 24 Food & Wine 26 Local Limelight 28 Giving Back 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 DIY

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GOOD TIMES

Fly Free, Butterflies! Stephanie Elsea and her 5-year-old son, Weston, recently released Painted Lady butterflies into the outdoor gardens of the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House at Faust Park. Weston enjoyed watching them fly off and waved goodbye. The family raised them from caterpillars they ordered by mail. PHOTOGRAPHY ELAINE COLLINS.

Food Truck Operators Make Their Way Through Area Neighborhood stops by regional food trucks have been much appreciated, with orders placed in advance. Thanks, operators, such as Mellow Mushroom, Pretzel Boys/Pete’s Pops, Fire & Ice Cream. You scream, I scream, we all scream for food trucks!

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GOOD TIMES

Rethinking Black History LaGarrett King, Ph.D., founding director of Carter Center for K-12 Black History Education, led a two-day professional development opportunity at Ladue Horton Watkins High School focused on "Rethinking Black History." Nearly 200 Ladue Schools educators participated (in-person and via livestreaming) to learn strategies about more intentional teaching of Black history. PHOTOS COURTESY OF LADUE SCHOOL DISTRICT AND L. KING.

Richmond Heights Police Officers Send Community Thanks Richmond Heights police officers shared that due to the volume of many "stellar" community members and local businesses who donated meals, snacks and personal protective supplies to their department, they are overcome with gratitude and love for the community: "We can't thank you all enough for your support, and for showing us that together we can persevere through anything."

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CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

AROUND TOWN

ATTORNEY JOINS CLAYTON LAW FIRM

During

2018,

Fontbonne

representatives

Richard King joined the Stange Law Firm, PC, in

acquired the former John F. Kennedy High site at

its Clayton headquarters. He provides assistance

500 Woods Mill Road in Manchester. University

in family law issues, such as child custody, divorce,

spokespeople indicated the intent was to create an

fathers' rights, paternity, adoption, protective

adult and graduate classes satellite campus there.

orders and restraining orders. Richard graduated from Western Michigan University Cooley Law School in 2014. He has been licensed to practice law in Missouri since that same year. Outside of his practice, Richard enjoys spending time with family, trying new restaurants, and watching sports, specifically St. Louis Cardinals baseball, as well as football and basketball.

ROSBENBERG FILM SERIES SLATED FOR AUGUST 30 Waldheims Waltzer (The Waldheim Waltz), a 94-minute movie directed by Ruth Beckermann in Austria, will be shown at 1 p.m. on Aug. 30 at the St. Louis County Library, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., in Ladue. The movie is sponsored by the Sandra and

BAR K'S DOG-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT IS BUILDING SECOND LOCATION

Mendel Rosenberg Sunday Afternoon Film Series.

Construction is underway at 4565 McRee Ave., to

It will have German, French and English with

create a 2-acre playground pen in St. Louis’ Grove

English subtitles.

business district for dogs and their owners. The

This award-winning documentary traces the uncovering of former UN Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim’s wartime past, including new details about his service in the German Wehrmacht.

location will feature a 10,000-square-foot indoor, off-leash dog park in addition to an outdoor park. The company's first such location was erected in Kansas City.

It depicts the swift succession of allegations by the

Pets will be able to enjoy a treat from the Food

World Jewish Congress at the time of his Austrian

for Dogs section of the menu, curated with help

presidential campaign, the denials by the Austrian

from Purina’s pet nutritionists, according to the

political class, and the outbreak of antisemitism

company's news release. Humans can order craft

and nationalism that finally led to his election.

cocktails, local beers and healthy dishes.

The showing is offered free of charge.

The entry fee is $10 for the first dog, and $5 for

For more information or to double-check rap-

each additional dog in your household. Membership

idly changing event plans due to COVID-19, call

is $225 for the first dog and $25 for each additional

314.442.3711 or email LCooper@JFedSTL.org.

dog, according to Bar K’s website.

FONTBONNE WEST UNIVERSITY IS ON THE MARKET Fontbonne officials released a public statement

Clayton-based developer Green Street is the owner and developer of the property where Bar K will be located. The project’s cost is estimated at $15 million.

that read: "We have decided to release the property [Fontonne West] and invest our focus and resources entirely on our main Clayton campus and on new methods of learning, including online instruction, to

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love

best serve our current and future students."

to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/

The university moved to its Clayton location in 1925.

Clayton Lifestyle | August 2020

Clayton using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.

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HEALTHY LIFESTYLE BASED FROM ELLISVILLE HEADQUARTERS, ASSISTANCE LEAGUE ST. LOUIS VOLUNTEERS HAVE BEEN IDENTIFYING, DEVELOPING, IMPLEMENTING AND FUNDING ONGOING PHILANTHROPIC PROGRAMS TO SERVE SPECIFIC NEEDS OF CHILDREN AND ADULTS IN THE ST. LOUIS COMMUNITY SINCE 1987.

Assistance League

During 2019-2020 alone, the nonprofit's 471 volunteers already helped 34,100-plus St. Louis children and adults. "This year's pandemic stretched our creativity, but we're very proud to have determined how to safely continue to help others," says Assistance League President Dawn Thomas. For example, during the COVID-19 lockdown, Dawn says they distributed hygiene kits, delivered books to restless children, and emptied their stockpile of clothing, shoes and plush toy bears.

LOCAL, RESPONSIVE PHILANTHROPIC GROUP BENEFITS ENTIRE ST. LOUIS REGION

ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ASSISTANCE LEAGUE ST. LOUIS

Clayton Lifestyle | August 2020

"People can't believe how committed our volunteers are," she adds.

shelters and to sexual assault victims; also provides household items

The group's major initiatives are:

to women and their children transitioning from emergency shelters.

+ Operation School Bell: Provides new school uniforms, socks,

term assistance to individuals in need through partner agencies.

+ Assistance League Outreach: Provides one-time or shortpersonal care items, belts, hats, personal care items and age-appropriate books to students; also supports closets to provide year-round

+ My Own Fun Stuff: Prepares and delivers activity kits to hospitals, schools and agencies to comfort children and adults.

clothing, shoes, coats and other necessities. + Steps to Success: Provides and fits new athletic shoes and socks for elementary school children. + Books From Friends: Provides books to aspiring readers in elementary schools. + Project ROSE: Purchases, packages and delivers personal care gift bags and clothing to women and their children in emergency

AUTHORS BRUNCH 2020 SET FOR AUGUST 8 The League will host a "virtual" authors brunch at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 8, with Melanie Benjamin, New York Times bestselling author of historical fiction. Request a link to the online event by emailing lcbreer@msn.com. Assistance League members pay $75 annual dues. ALSTL.org CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

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INSPIRED BY

In The Arms Of (Human) Angels NONPROFIT PROVIDES FOSTER CHILDREN WITH SAFETY NETS

ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON 18

Clayton Lifestyle | August 2020

FOSTER CHILDREN DESERVE THE CHANCE TO BE CHILDREN, TO BE PART OF A FAMILY, AND TO LIVE UP TO THEIR POTENTIAL. That's the whole mission of a South St. Louis County-based nonprofit launched 20 years ago -- and they've been sensationally successful, with the help of community volunteers. Angels’ Arms so far has improved the lives of 600plus children, including more than 140 sibling groups, by providing them with loving homes and allowing them to thrive in happy, functional family settings. After serving as a foster parent herself for several years and frequently receiving calls to care for sibling groups, Angels' Arms Founder and Executive Director Bess Wilfong knew firsthand that fostering is an extremely difficult calling. However, with true dedication to keeping brothers and sisters together within a nurturing family until a forever home is found, all things are possible with community support.

Due to the underpinnings and results of this nonprofit, that's why profes-

Angels’ Arms teams provide homes, resources and

sionals, such as Angie Schulze, mortgage loan officer for Regions Bank, say it's

emotional support to experienced foster parents so they

so motivating and rewarding to support the group. She and her daughter have

can raise the standard of care for foster children.

volunteered for the organization's events for the past year.

The group has 13 homes located throughout St. Louis

"It's all about the kids. I have two kids of my own, and the thought of them

City and County, and St. Charles County. House parents

not having a family is just so heart-wrenching," explains Angie. "Angels' Arms

don't receive a salary from Angels’ Arms. Rather, the

does so much to help foster children through transitions and to encourage

foster parents receive a stipend from the state to take

them. It's a great support system that helps give children everything they need

care of each foster child. Angels’ Arms staffers furnish

to better themselves as they move through their lives. They even help them

the homes and provide resources for house parents so

prepare to go to college."

they can take in children that need a home.

Due to coronavirus-related concerns, foster families have been challenged

"We're very proud that 100% of Angels' Arms children

with meeting the food, educational and entertainment needs of the many chil-

have graduated from high school, compared to a 50%

dren in their care. Additionally, the organization's two upcoming main fundrais-

rate for foster kids statewide," proclaims Bess.

ing events in October and November are being transformed into virtual events.

She says the group's "Life Launch" program works one-on-one with youths 14-21 years old to assist them

314.842.8400 AngelsArms.org

with life skills, career exploration and mentoring. They also provide a transitional living space to foster young adults who are aging out of the system, preparing them for independence.

Angels’ Arms has a Amazon Wish List that outlines

The "togetherness" accomplished through all the day-

donations needed to support foster families. To explore

to-day activities is the primary driver for Bess. "Giving

how to fulfill the wishes of a particular child, email ash-

love in so many forms to 'our' kids and our parents is the

ley@angelsarms.org or call 314.842.8400. (Due to lim-

most gratifying part of my job," Bess confides.

ited space, Angels’ Arms cannot accept used clothing,

Abbey Perano, Angels' Arms communications coor-

stuffed animals, toys or books.)

dinator, says the entity achieves these goals with 100% community engagement and no state or federal funding. The entity currently has six full-time employees and two part-time employees. After making a donation, supporters receive an acknowledgement letter that can be used for a tax deduction.

CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

ARTIST’S PALETTE

SAINT LOUIS A R T FA I R PRESENTED BY C E N T E N E C H A R I TA B L E F O U N DAT I O N G O E S VIRTUAL FOR 2020 SEPTEMBER 11, 12, 13

ARTICLE KATHLEEN KAISER PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SAINT LOUIS ART FAIR 20

Clayton Lifestyle | August 2020

FOR 27 YEARS, THE SAINT LOUIS ART FAIR,

our non-profit community partners. When you add in how

UNDER THE DIRECTION OF CULTURAL FESTIVALS,

beautifully the weather cooperated last year, it just made for

HAS DELIVERED FANTASTIC ANNUAL ART FAIRS

the perfect weekend for everyone to enjoy,” recalls Sarah.

TO THE HEART OF CLAYTON, SHOWCASING BOTH

After such a fabulous 2019 show, Sarah and her staff

VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTISTS FOR EVERY-

were already months into preparing for this year’s event

ONE TO ENJOY THROUGHOUT THE ST. LOUIS MET-

when St. Louis and the rest of the nation were hit with the

ROPOLITAN AREA.

COVID-19 pandemic.

Ranked as one of the top 10 shows in the nation by Art Fair Source Book, the Saint Louis Art Fair plays an integral role in showcasing the importance of art in everyone’s daily lives -- whether through their educational programs, creative workshops or from the exposure to fine art that those in attendance receive at the Fair each year. Last year was another fabulous year for the Saint Louis Art Fair, as Executive Director Sarah Umlauf, and her staff managed to create an unforgettable venue filled with the exquisite artwork of 180-plus artists, plus the exceptional music performances that happened all weekend long.

“A s we put th e f in ish in g touc h e s on our v ir tua l sh ow, we a re so g ra te f ul to our cor pora te pa r tn e rs wh o co n tin ue to suppor t our org a n i z a tion th roug h th is jour n ey, a s th ey a re a c r uc ia l com p o n e n t in th e produc tion of t h e S a in t Louis Ar t Fa ir.”

“It was such a wonderful weekend as the first show under my direction. I was grateful to have been a part of

Sarah says, “When you put on an event that is attended

the Saint Louis Art Fair for so many years as a volunteer,

by more than 100,000 people each year, you want to do

spearheading one of their committees. And now, having the

everything in your power to make sure that each Fair is

opportunity to take the Art Fair into the future, has become

better than the last. But we know that the safety of our

truly rewarding. It’s such a team effort putting on a show

patrons, artists, and volunteers attending the Fair is the

of this magnitude, and I was happy to lead my staff and all

top priority. And as we evaluated all the scenarios of what

of our volunteers into making everything perfect for our

would be best for everyone involved, our board of directors

artists, patrons, musicians, food vendors, sponsors, and

and I decided that this year’s Art Fair would be best suited CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

ARTIST’S PALETTE (CONTINUED)

to becoming a virtual show. Other local art venues, like the Laumeier Art Fair and the Webster Arts Fair, have already gone virtual this year, providing a roadmap to help the 2020 Virtual Saint Louis Art Fair be a success. A virtual show gives artists another platform to sell their fine art by allowing patrons to browse galleries of artwork online." In addition, she says they are sharing the Enterprise Mainstage entertainment via their website, allowing everyone to hear some incredible musicians throughout the weekend. They also will add components from their creative castle. Children can participate in virtual arts and craft lessons, so families won’t miss experiencing this popular tradition of the Saint Louis Art Fair. “As we put the finishing touches on our virtual show, we are so grateful to our corporate partners who continue to support our organization through this journey, as they are a crucial component in the production of the Saint Louis Art Fair,” adds Sarah. To access the Saint Louis Art Fair’s virtual show this year, visit SaintLouisArtFair.com on Sept. 11-13 to enjoy all of the fine art, music and fun that's in store, all from the comfort of one's very own home.

Clayton Lifestyle | August 2020

HELPING TO BUILD A

Better TOMORROW

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FOOD & WINE

DINNER & A MOVIE = FAMILY FUN!

ENJOY DINNER AND A MOVIE WITH YOUR KIDS, AND YOUR FURRY FAMILY MEMBER IN TOW TOO!

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY KATHLEEN KAISER

WITH THIS AUGUST EDITION FOCUSING ON

Bar? Located in the heart of downtown Belleville at

BOTH OUR CHILDREN AND FURRY FAMILY MEM-

28 East Main St., this pet friendly Suchi Bar, and its

BERS WE ALL LOVE TOO, DINNER & A MOVIE =

adjacent American cuisine establishment called Seven,

DATE NIGHT DECIDED TO CHECK OUT A FEW

will make sure your entire family and your favorite furry

PLACES ON BOTH SIDES OF THE RIVER THAT

companion are well taken care of.

ARE “FIDO FRIENDLY," AND SEE IF WE COULDN’T

Now, when’s the last time you ventured out with

FIND A PLACE TO VENTURE TO SEE A FILM

your pet to catch a movie? My guess is it’s been quite

THAT'S ALSO PET FRIENDLY.

a while…but wait no more, as Dinner & A Movie has

We were amazed at how many restaurants from

found the perfect place to not only catch a film with

which we could choose that are happy for guests to

the entire family, including furry family members, but

have furry friends in tow, which translates to being

you can also do it while keeping those social distancing

more pet friendly. This is definitely on-trend throughout

protocols in place at the Skyview Drive-In. The Skyview

the St. Louis metropolitan area.

Drive-In is one of the oldest drive-ins in the US still

So where can one head with the kiddos and “man’s

operating today, and with two movie screens playing

best friend” too? Well, if you enjoy scrumptious, lighter

all week long, they can’t wait to entertain your family,

fare, along with the perfect place to walk around a bit

seven days a week. As excited as they are to host every-

before and after lunch or dinner, then look no further than

one, they just ask that you keep your dog on a leash

the Boathouse in Forest Park at 6101 Government Dr.

when it’s outside your vehicle, and that you clean up

Or, if you want to enjoy some of the freshest brews available and catch a bite to eat while out strolling with the whole family, then stop by Square One Brewery and Distillery at 1727 Park Ave. If you enjoy flatbreads, specials from the Smokehouse, or want to try some of their appealing appetizers too,

after them before you leave for the evening. They also have family friendly films playing in August to enjoy. Here are just a few of the tentative Skyview Drive-In movies that will be playing, so you can decide when it's best to head East for a night out that your entire family won’t soon forget.

then venture to The Shaved Duck located at 2900 Virginia Ave. If pasta and brick oven pizzas are what you’re craving, then head to Failoni’s Restaurant and Bar at 6715

8/7 – Screen 1: Shrek 1 & 2 Screen 2: National Lampoon’s Vacation & Christmas Vacation

Manchester Ave. for a pleasing pasta meal, which I’m

8/14 – Screen 1: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 1 & 2

sure furry friends won’t mind getting a few bites of either.

Screen 2: Terminator 1 & 2

And if you’d enjoy taking a little longer excursion accompanied by your pet instead, then why not head about 40 minutes East to check out Seven Shichi Sushi 24

Clayton Lifestyle | August 2020

Failoni's Restaurant

SHREK © Dreamworks Animation

Skyview Drive In, Belleville, IL

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES © New Line Cinema

Square One Brewery and Distillery CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

EMPOWERING INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES BY CREATING CANINE-HUMAN PARTNERSHIPS

CHAMP ASSISTANCE DOGS ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CHAMP ASSISTANCE DOGS

SOME PEOPLE CONCENTRATE ON CHANGING LIVES

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING TO PLACE

FOR THE BETTER. And for some, that means bliss comes

THERAPY DOGS WITH THEIR HUMANS?

with furry, four-legged friends. Take a closer look at how Pam Budke, CHAMP

CHAMP was incorporated as a not-for-profit business in Missouri on Jan. 12, 1998.

Assistance Dogs' executive director, along with the organization's board of directors and volunteers,

WHAT SERVICES ARE OFFERED?

help people with disabilities to live independently. There

CHAMP provides educational programs, therapy

are plenty of ways to plug into this group's goodness

dog teams, a puppy-raising program in St. Louis, a pup-

and positive community impact -- 96% of the CHAMP

py-raising program in Columbia, Missouri, and an assis-

workforce is volunteers.

tance dog training program at a Missouri Department of Corrections Women’s Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and

WHAT'S THE MISSION OF CHAMP ASSISTANCE DOGS?

Correctional Center in Vandalia, Missouri.

To improve and enhance life skills and promote companionship through placing specially selected service

FOR WHOM ARE THE SERVICE DOGS TRAINED?

dogs with qualified individuals, and further, to always

CHAMP Service Dog graduates have disabilities other

celebrate the mystery and joy inherent in the canine/

than visual or hearing impairments; those include multiple

human bond.

sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, down syndrome, spinal cord injuries, post-polio, muscular dystrophy, cerebral

WHAT DOES CHAMP STAND FOR? Canine Helpers Allow More Possibilities! 26

Clayton Lifestyle | August 2020

palsy and rheumatoid arthritis.

HOW LONG CAN AN ASSISTANCE DOG WORK? Service and facility dogs in good health often work until 10 to 12 years of age. A very high quality food, excellent veterinary care, exercise, grooming, keeping the dog at a healthy weight, and plenty of love and attention all help to increase the working life of a service dog. WHO OWNS THE ASSISTANCE DOG? CHAMP maintains ownership of the assistance dog throughout the partnership of the team. The graduate is responsible for the dog’s care and maintenance including food, toys and veterinary services. FROM WHERE DOES YOUR FUNDING COME? CHAMP service dogs are provided free of charge, thanks to the generosity of caring communities. CHAMP doesn't receive state, federal or United Way funding. They aren't affiliated with, and don't receive funding from, any national service-dog-provider organization. Funding sources include donations from individuals, corporations, foundations, small businesses, social organizations, civic groups, school fundraisers and government employees, such as the Combined Federal Campaign and Missouri State Employees Charitable Campaign. CHAMP also hosts fundraisers, such as trivia nights and Howl-E-Woof. They also receive gifts-in-kind, mainly from veterinarians, puppy caregivers and other volunteers. HOW ARE THERAPY DOGS AND TEAMS HANDLED? Therapy dogs come from breeders, shelters and foster care. During typical years, the therapy dog teams meet 1,700plus people a month during scheduled visits to more than 80 locations that span hospitals, hospices, nursing homes, adult

day cares, homeless programs, the USO, nursery schools, colleges, libraries, and homes for people with dementia, developmental disabilities, and mental illness. CHAMP RELIES UPON VOLUNTEERS TO HELP WITH: + Raising puppies + Serving as handlers of a Therapy Dog Team + Education presentations + Serving on the CHAMP Board of Directors + Special events + Fundraising + Outreach events + Administrative assistance + Assisting with CHAMP training classes 314.485.1264 ChampDogs.org CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

GIVING BACK

Saint Louis Zooâ€™s Cassandra Brown Ray

Cassandra Brown Ray

INSPIRATIONAL LEADER & ROLE MODEL FOR HER CHILDREN

Clayton Lifestyle | August 2020

IF EVERY BUSINESS, AND EVERY CITY,

“We have limited resources, so planning for

OPERATED WITH THE SAME PHILOS-

the best and highest uses for our finances is

OPHY AND VALUES THAT THE SAINT

key…with caring for the animals as our first prior-

LOUIS ZOO ORGANIZATION DOES, LED

ity. Everyone here is dedicated to that,” she says.

BY PEOPLE LIKE CASSANDRA BROWN

“The three top principles we operate on

RAY, THE WORLD WOULD BE A MUCH

are: Animals Always, People Matter and

BETTER PLACE.

Operational Excellence. These guide every

Cassandra Brown Ray, began what she

decision we make.

calls her “blessed journey” with the Zoo 28

“The challenge comes in when we have

years ago as a staff accountant. Early last

so many amazing, creative ideas, goals and

year she was named chief financial officer/

dreams from staff, volunteers and our gov-

vice president of Finance. She has the dis-

ernance, and we have to fit all of that into a

tinction of being the first African American

financial plan and forecast.”

and the first woman to hold that role at the Saint Louis Zoo. Cassandra is passionate about gender equity and serves as the diversity and inclusion team leader for the zoo.

But that ends up being the most rewarding part of her job as well, says Cassandra. She says their key values include openness/transparency, integrity, and using cre-

Cassandra earned her master of business

ativity to plan for the best and highest uses

administration from Lindenwood University

of the Zoo’s resources. Those resources

and her undergraduate accounting degree

include their people.

from the University of Missouri-Columbia.

“Because without our people, we can’t pro-

She currently serves on Lindenwood’s Board

vide the world-class care for the animals. And

of Directors, as well as the Duo (therapy

without operational excellence, we cannot get

dogs) board. She’s also a past member of

the highest and best use of our resources.”

the Francis Howell School District Finance and Operations Committee.

Cassandra says that another rewarding part of her job is that she gets to work with

In her role as CFO, Cassandra says her greatest challenge – and greatest reward

amazing scientists and conservationists who are dedicated to protecting animals.

– is to apply the Saint Louis Zoo’s Values

“When we wake up in the morning, we

and Keys, or guiding forces, that steer every

are on a mission because we have a zoo

decision made at this “city within a city,” as

that we have to care for but we also have

she calls it.

a future that we need to build a foundation

“It’s been rewarding to be part of the team

for. My hope is that in many years when I’m

that helped develop the values and the keys

no longer here, they will look back and say,

for the Saint Louis Zoo,” says Cassandra.

CONTINUED >

ARTICLE JUDY PETERS

CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED) ‘What they did back then was foundational and there is no way we could have saved as many animals or as many habitats without them doing what they needed to do.’” A major project that Cassandra has been involved with is planning for the new Conservation and Animal Science Center in North St. Louis County. Using privately donated funds, the Saint Louis Zoo Association purchased 425 acres in north St. Louis County (Spanish Lake) in 2018. The new Saint Louis Zoo North Campus will include a Conservation & Animal Science Center and public attractions that will connect people with nature and animals. “There is so much work to be done over the next few years, but this will give us space to breed animals and an incredible opportunity to experience species in habitats that may be incredibly similar to going on safari,” she says. An exciting new exhibit at the Saint Louis Zoo is the Primate Canopy Trails, an $11.5 million, 35,000-square-foot outdoor expansion of the Primate House. Construction began in 2019 and is scheduled to open in 2021. Primate Canopy Trails will consist of eight new outdoor homes for primates – lemurs, Old World monkeys and New World monkeys. "Being outside is critical for primates' well-being, and this new habitat is a demonstration of the Zoo's commitment to providing quality animal care," says Heidi Hellmuth, Curator of Primates. Another exciting development at the Zoo this summer was the birth of a new baby elephant. Asian elephant Rani gave birth to baby Priya. The Zoo’s bull elephant, 27-yearold Raja, is the father. He was the first Asian elephant ever born at the Zoo in 1992, and this calf will be his fifth offspring. There are so many awe-inspiring aspects of the Saint Louis Zoo, and now we add its leaders, like Cassandra Brown Ray, to the list. She is truly an inspirational leader, to the community as well as to her own two children, who no doubt admired her ability and motivation to earn her MBA while well into her career. She says they would all sit and study together in the evenings. Her kids, who graduated from Francis Howell Central H.S., have now both earned their college degrees. Cassandra truly leads by example. 30

Clayton Lifestyle | August 2020

“WHEN WE WAKE UP IN THE MORNING, WE ARE ON A MISSION BECAUSE WE HAVE A ZOO THAT WE HAVE TO CARE FOR BUT WE ALSO HAVE A FUTURE THAT WE NEED TO BUILD A FOUNDATION FOR.”

Monday-Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm

CityLifestyle.com/Clayton

AUGUST

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

CLAY CLASS / WHEEL THROWING

TODDLER PROM

The class is for those at least 16 years

Brentwood Parks and Recreation’s

10TH ANNUAL LOVE FOREST PARK 'VIRTUAL' 5K & KIDS RUN

and older, and runs through 8:30

1st Annual Toddler Prom (infant to

This Virtual Run is a race in which

p.m. in Laumeier’s Staenberg Family

4 years old) will provide an evening

participants can run or walk from any

Foundation

Lab. Register

of music, games and crafts. Prom

Forest Park paths or roads or any

online or in-person (by appoint-

pictures with little ones will be

other location. Participants run at

ment only). Contact the Education

offered. Price includes one parent

their own pace and time it themselves.

Department at 314.615.5268 or edu-

and child registration; additional

Registered participants can complete

cation@laumeier.org to

Laumeier Sculpture Park

Clay

Forest Park, Home Or Elsewhere

schedule

child or parent tickets can be pur-

their chosen distance during Aug. 23

an appointment or request more

chased for $3 each. Formal wear

and Sept. 13 to receive a 2020 limited

information; Laumeier cannot accept

is welcome, but not necessary.

edition I Love Forest Park T-shirt.

registrations via email, phone or fax.

Pre-registration required.

CLAYTON KIDS TRIATHLON 2020

BABYSITTER'S TRAINING WITH AMERICAN RED CROSS

Clayton Shaw Park Outdoor Pool, Shaw

COFFEE WITH THE MAYOR Brentwood City Hall

Enjoy coffee, doughnuts and conver-

Brentwood Community Center

sation with Brentwood Mayor David

The City of Clayton, The Center

This course for those 11-15 years

Dimmitt. This session typically goes

of Clayton and Big Shark Bicycle

old provides the knowledge and

for an hour.

Company representatives are set to

hands-on skills necessary to safely

host the 5th Annual Bodley Group

and responsibly care for children

Clayton Kids Triathlon. This fun and

and infants, including basic first

twisty course introduces kids ages

aid, leadership skills, guidance on

7-14 to the sport of triathlon. New

developing a babysitting business,

this year: free Fun Run on the 1-mile

and methods for engaging younger

run course.

children in age appropriate activities.

ComedySportz is clean, outrageously

Successful completion provides par-

funny Improv, similar to what's seen

ticipants with a Babysitters Training

on "Whose Line Is It Anyway," played

Certification, which does not expire.

like a sport. It's a 2-hour event. Tickets

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING

Park and GRG Centennial Greenway

Forest Park

This free event is directed by Bruce Longworth from Aug. 12 through Sept. 6. This summer is the 20th year

Brentwood Community Center

28 COMEDYSPORTZ ST. LOUIS Discovery Comedy Theater

at the door are $10 to $18 each.

MUSICAL NIGHTS Oak Knoll Park