Issuu

CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

SEPTEMBER 2020

the

Style

issue

"THEY ARE A BANK THAT IS INTEGRAL IN BRINGING SUCCESSFUL PROJECTS TOGETHER."

MORE THAN A TRAIN. AN ICON REIMAGINED. How tax credits turned a train station into a destination. Bob O’Loughlin had a vision for St. Louis’ Union Station. He was determined to transform the abandoned local landmark into a source of pride for the city. With the help of Enterprise, LHM was able to secure tax credits and funding to make his dream a reality. Now, the one time largest train station in the world has become a hotel, exhibit hall, meeting place and soon to be aquarium.

(314) 965-8686 | enterpisebank.com

Member FDIC

- BOB O'LOUGHLIN, CHAIRMAN & CEO, LHM

LIFESTYLE LETTER

SEPTEMBER 2020 PUBLISHER

Renee Moore | renee.moore@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Jordan Moore | jordan.moore@lifestylepubs.com

What is your style statement? YOU MAY BE LIKE MOLLY, WHOSE STYLE IS REFLECTED IN HER FAVORITE

AD DESIGNER

Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER

Jayme Emery

PAIR OF STEVE MADDEN COMBAT BOOTS (CHECK OUT THE STYLE STATE-

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

MENTS ARTICLE). You may be like artist and teacher, Byron Rogers, and show

Beth Glennon, James Kauffman

your style through art (check out The Art of Storytelling with Style). You may be like Monte Herring, with an impeccable eye for style in detail and design (check out Driving with Style).

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Heidi Drexler, Brian Porter, Jessica Ebeler Photography, Keaton Moore

September is our Style issue. And after reading each of our featured stories, one resounding theme stands out; "Share your style." Your style is a reflection of who you are. You were created to make a statement. We love your style.

Renee Moore, Publisher

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ON THE COVER (left to right) Sally Richman, Kelli Bramell, Paula Mathias, Diana Eckhardt, Molly Hollenbach, Jillian Flesh PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEIDI DREXLER 4

Kirkwood Lifestyle | September 2020

CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

Proverbs 3:5-6 Kirkwood Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Kirkwood 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 Kirkwood Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Retiring in Style

Cottage Homes â€˘ Retirement Apartments Assisted Living Apartments Call us at 636-431-2046, or visit our website CapeAlbeon.com to schedule your tour today! 3380 Lake Bend Dr â€˘ St. Louis, MO 63088

INSIDE THE ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2020

FEATURES 14 Creating A Connected Home Automating Your Home

16 Style Statements Fashion and Fun in Downtown Kirkwood

20 The Art of Storytelling with Style Kirkwood High School Art Teacher, Byron Rogers, Shares a Story of Inspiration and Survival

34 Driving with Style Monte Herring Talks About the

16 20

Connection Between Driving Vintage Cars and Building Timeless Homes

34 DEPARTMENTS

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Renovate & Refine

14 DIY 16

Trend Setter

20 Localâ€™s Choice 24 Local Limelight 26 Our Town 30 Locally Owned 32 Culinary Creations 34 Parting Thoughts

GOOD TIMES

The American Cancer Society's 42 Doors of Hope The American Cancer Society’s 42 Doors of Hope showcases local artists’ interpretations of cancer patients’ journeys. We love the Kirkwood and Webster University doors. Vote for your favorite door. To donate visit 42doorsofhope.org or donate by texting DOORS to 20222 for a $10 donation. Funds raised will stay in St. Louis to support rennovation of the Hope Lodge.

1. LaTasha Warren, Artist | 2. Byron Rogers, Artist

Kirkwood Lifestyle | September 2020

AROUND TOWN

FOUR! GOLF TOURNAMENT AT GREENBRIAR HILLS Get your foursome together for a day of golf. The Kirkwood-Des Peres Area Chamber and the Webster GrovesShrewsbury-Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce are teeing up for a scramble. For those of you keeping score, that's five cities coming together for one huge golf tournament. Join us for a time of connection and great golf on a stunning course. Monday, Oct 26, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM at Greenbriar Hills Country Club. For more information, check out the Chambers' websites.

JOIN A CULTURE OF CARE. MASSAGE ENVY IS HIRING. Are you an Un-knotting Ninja? A Melter of Muscle? A Hero of Healing?

you

know what's

needed to keep bodies working, then Massage Envy needs you. Bruce Conner, owner of Massage Envy in Sunset Hills, loves the culture of care that his team has built over the past 15 years. Most therapists have been a part of the team for over eight years; some have 10

Kirkwood Lifestyle | September 2020

been there since the beginning. Join the team. Call Bruce at (314) 8495100 to learn more.

Montessori for Life

HEALTHY BUSINESS HEROES The Webster Groves - Shrewsbury - Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce is seeking nominations to recognize the businesses that keep their employees and customers safe. Know someone who is a Healthy Business Hero? Head over to the Chamber's website and cast your vote. We love it when we have the opportunity to show our appreciation for local businesses.

AMI Accredited Education Children Ages 3–12 Tours by appointment, 314-822-2601

CELEBRATING TURNING 107 IN 2020 Angela Remes turned 107 on July 18th. How does one celebrate such a huge milestone birthday during a pandemic? This pretty lady celebrated in style - and safely - with her Cape Albeon "family" and friends. Thanks to outdoor visits, window visits, social distancing, and the staff's healthy habits, Angela enjoyed her wonderful day with a caring (and COVID-free) community.

1280 Simmons Ave. | Kirkwood, MO 63122 www.villadimaria.org CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

RENOVATE & REFINE

PRO ST YLE MEET CHRIS AND BETH PRICE, OWNERS OF PRICE’S PRO ROOFING AND EXTERIORS

TYPICAL

KIRKWOOD

HOMES

HAVE

UNDERGONE ONE, IF NOT MULTIPLE, ADDITIONS. While homeowners welcome the extra space inside, problems can arise from the exterior outside. Those exterior problems are avoidable. "The most common story I hear from homeowners is that they're resigned to living with a leak in the ceiling," states Chris. Chris and Beth Price have personal experience with home exteriors, not just from living in an expanded century-old home on North Clay, but as the owners of Price's Pro Roofing and Exteriors. This delightful and insightful husband and wife team offer advice and provide solutions to homeowners trying to navigate replacing, updating, or adding on to the exterior of their home. As a member of National Women in Roofing, an organization that supports local 12

Kirkwood Lifestyle | September 2020

ARTICLE BETH GLENNON PHOTOGRAPHY BRAIN PORTER non-profits while supporting other women in the industry, Beth has developed a strong relationship with realtors and insurance agents. "Realtors and insurance agents love working with us because we make sure they have every document they need in their hands by a particular day," notes Beth. "Recently, a customer called in distress saying, 'We forgot we need a document and we are hours away from closing.' We took care of them." It's the care and the commitment that sets Prices Pro Roofing apart from other exterior companies. And that starts with a conversation with Chris. He declares, "I'm not just the first guy you're going to meet; I'm going to be there throughout your project's production and completion. And if you have any questions along the way, my wife will be happy to help you." During a detailed conversation with customers, Chris offers suggestions and shares his knowledge of the pros and cons of various roofing, siding, and exterior products. He states, "My goal is not to be the biggest company out there; my goal, and what we strive for, is to be the best." Chris is proud of his reputation for being very knowledgable and trustworthy, but he admits it's his courteous crew's expertise that leaves a lasting impression. "We often get handwritten notes from clients saying our crew was so thorough and cleaned up so completely that it didn't even look like they were there," says Beth. "We have a lot of respect for our crew and their families." Chris talks about his favorite part of being a business owner. "The most important thing to me, as a Christian man, is being able to sleep well at night knowing that I'm using the best products on the market, with the best crews, and not skipping corners." With a warm and friendly smile, Chris adds, "There's nothing more enjoyable than when a customer says, 'We can't stand the way the house looks.' And then to hear them say, 'It looks better than we ever imagined.'"

CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

DIY CREATING

CONNECTED

AUTOMATING YOUR HOME CAN INTEGRATE WITH YOUR LIFESTYLE, ENHANCE YOUR HOME, AND MAKE LIFE SIMPLER. BUT WHERE TO START?

HOME

PROVIDES CONVENIENCE, STYLE, AND SAFETY. Simply by saying, “Alexa, Goodnight,”

ARTICLE JAMES KAUFMANN

lights turn off, doors lock, thermostats adjust,

PHOTOGRAPHY JESSICA EBELER PHOTOGRAPHY

and blinds close. Tim Hohenstein, owner of A Smarter Home, works with individuals consid-

ering stepping into these new products and those considering outfitting their entire home. “Connected technology blends into a home’s surroundings and becomes part of your day,” states Tim. “I love talking with clients about what they want, and then seeing the excitement on their faces when I show them how everything works. It makes their house fun and exciting.” 1. Tim Hohenstein, A Smarter Home, helps select, install, set up, and support smart technology products. 2. Echo Dots are functional, esthetic, and can be connected to fill your home with music. 3. Walkthrough a recipe, watch YouTube, Netflix, stream music, or display photos with Nest Hub. 4. Indoor & outdoor cameras and security alarms connect to speakers/hubs for safety and convenience. 5. Nest Thermostat integrates with Nest Protect, a combined smoke, and carbon monoxide alarm. 6. Remotely lock/unlock your deadbolt and set multiple codes for multiple people with Smart Locks.

C R E AT I N G A CONNECTED HOME 14

Kirkwood Lifestyle | September 2020

Just Listed

CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

TREND SETTER WHAT’S YOUR GO-TO FASHION PIECE? Kelli: My heels! As a mom of younger kids, I never shy away from wearing heels when the kids are with me. I always tell people, "Don't worry, if need be, I can run in these." Sally: Daydreamer vintage rock band t-shirts from Free People with a pair of platform Vans and a kimono. Jillian: Rachel Pally dresses. It's a great woman-owned brand focused on lowering environmental impact and empowering women. If someone comments on my dress, it's an opportunity to raise a little awareness. Paula: My favorite copper silk dress from Spell. It makes me feel like I'm wearing a sunset.

ARTICLE BETH GLENNON PHOTOGRAPHY HEIDI DREXLER

Molly: I would say my black lace-up Steve Madden combat boots that have lasted many STL winters. I also can't live without a go-to jacket or chunky cardigan. Diana: Jewelry. I wear a lot of bracelets and my Gold Loop earnings from Blush.

Y ST LE S TAT E M E N T S MEET SIX SMART AND STYLISH WOMEN KELLI BRAMELL, SALLY RICHMAN, JILLIAN FLESH, PAULA MATHIAS, MOLLY HOLLENBACH, AND DIANA ECKHARDT

Kirkwood Lifestyle | September 2020

+ LEFT Kelli Bramell + ABOVE Sally Richman

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

TREND SETTER (CONTINUED)

+ FAR LEFT Paula Mathias + LEFT Jillian Flesh + RIGHT Molly Hollenbach + FAR RIGHT Diana Eckhardt + models are wearing outfits from Blush 18

Kirkwood Lifestyle | September 2020

FAVORITE FALL FASHION TRENDS Kelli: One trend I'm excited about is the new neutral color pallet with more browns and earth tones. Sally: I'm a hippy kind of girl. So, I love casual, wide-leg jeans and t-shirts with big platform shoes. Super cute sweatshirts, hoodies, or cozy sweaters are my favorite trends.

Paula: Boho! I love dressing like I'm in the South West. We took a Route 66 road trip last summer through the SW to Cali, and I fit in perfectly. In the fall, I live in warm miniskirts with booties and a cute jacket - either leather or denim. Molly: I focus on transforming my wardrobe to timeless, quality pieces. I like to invest in clothes that will last a long time rather than

Jillian: I am excited about the trend toward minority-owned brands.

splurging on fast fashion. I love the trend toward layering basic fall

I hope this becomes the new norm. My closet is full of consciously

sweaters and boots with fun jackets and accessories. I'm definitely

sourced, environmentally friendly, or minority-owned brands. Rather

not afraid to rock a beanie or vest either!

than a typical fashion statement, I prefer my style to reflect the power of my dollar to do good beyond buying beautiful clothing.

Diana: Fall means relaxed comfort with cowboy boots, scarves, and denim jackets. CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

LOCAL’S CHOICE

TH E A RT O F S TO RY TE LLI N G

W ITH S T Y LE

ARTICLE JAMES KAUFFMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY KEATON MOORE

USING BRIGHT, BOLD BRUSH STROKES, KIRKWOOD HIGH SCHOOL ART TEACHER, BYRON ROGERS, SHARES A STORY OF AND INSPIRATION AND SURVIVAL. "ART IS COMMUNAL," STATES BYRON. "I love doing public art. I immediately said yes to this opportunity." Byron, a Kirkwood High School Art Teacher, is one of 42 local artists chosen for the American Cancer Society's 42 Doors of Hope campaign. Artists painted doors to represent an interpretation of a cancer patient's journey.

Kirkwood Lifestyle | September 2020

Byron's door, "Inspiration and Survival", is located at Webster University. "My mom is my inspiration," states Byron. "This is my way of giving back and showing her strength through art." At 86, Byron's mom, a cancer survivor, is still an influence in his life. "I love listening to her stories. Hearing her talk about her past makes me appreciate her even more." Byron's images reflect the hope, faith, and spiritual strength he learned from his mom. He is passionate about creating and sharing art. "We should always be creating. We should share our gifts. My art isn't just about me. It's about everyone having a part in it and sharing their story and sharing their gift." This stunning piece is Bryon's gift to his mom, his biggest cheerleader.

CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

Assisted Living with True Peace of Mind?

WE’VE GOT THIS. Once you consider the unique benefits only found here, Friendship Village Assisted Living & Memory Care is the obvious choice:

• 40+ years’ experience from a name you trust • Individualized care—on your loved one’s terms • Innovative wellness programs and technology • Partnerships with National Assisted Living Research Organizations We have the right fit for any need—from daily assistance, to memory care with a Montessori-Inspired Lifestyle® Approach—meaning true peace of mind for you. Schedule a private tour at our Chesterfield location during our Grand Opening week and you’ll quickly find that together, we’ve got this!

CALL (636) 242-5039

today to schedule your private tour the week of September 8-12 and receive Grand Opening Savings! FriendshipVillageSTL.com/assisted-living/Chesterfield A not-for-profit Life Care community by Friendship Village Senior Services.

Kirkwood Lifestyle | September 2020

Every life has a story. Have you told yours? our story defines your legacy. For your children and grandchildren, your story can inspire and uplift, strengthen and entertain, and share lessons learned and values lived. Personal biographer and Kirkwood resident Kathy Evans of “Write for You” Life Stories has been turning these stories into heirloom-quality memoirs for almost twenty years. “It is an immense privilege to write these books,” Evans says. She interviews clients regularly in their homes (or nowadays, via video conferencing), then weaves together interviews to create a coherent and lively narrative in the client’s voice. Evans and her team of researchers, editors, genealogists, and book designers include family history and historical context to set the story in its time, then incorporate photos and scans of war medals, quilt sections, letters, and in one case, a sample of a client’s childhood wallpaper: whatever best illustrates the client’s story. “We’re beginning to understand the power of story as a constant in a changing world, a way to connect families when so many of us are scattered across the country or globe,” Evans says. “For the client, it’s a time for reflection and a chance to pass on an intangible legacy. For the family, it’s a gift of their own history.”

u To learn more, visit www.kathymevans.com, or call 314-740-8859 for a complimentary consultation.

CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

Shine in Style ARTICLE BETH GLENNON PHOTOGRAPHY SHACK SHINE

WEBSTER GROVES RESIDENT AND OWNER OF SHACK SHINE, LEE CAGLE, TALKS ABOUT GETTING YOUR HOME READY FOR FALL AND WINTER. AS A HUSBAND AND FATHER, LEE UNDERSTANDS THE BALANCE OF OWNING A BUSINESS, SPENDING TIME WITH HIS FAMILY AND MAINTAINING HIS WONDERFUL HOME IN WEBSTER GROVES. “Families are spending much more time at home,” says Lee. “Consequently, parents are noticing how much work needs to be done outside and around the house. The patio needs to be washed, the gutters need to be cleaned, and how many days until Christmas?” Lee is happy that he can help families alleviate all those issues; and he can usually do it one day. He proudly notes that his Shack Shine team of house detailers can do it all; interior and exterior window washing, gutter cleaning, power washing, and Christmas light hanging. And yes, that includes she-sheds and kids playhouses. 24

Kirkwood Lifestyle | September 2020

WWW.TWOBLINDGUYS.COM (314) 698-2090

CALL US

DESIGN SHOWROOM Kerr RD. 1066 Dylan N. BALLAS (867) 379-3820 DES PERES, MO 63131

DESIGNER BANDED SHADES

JUST LISTED! WINDOW

87 San Carlos Court Â Elyria, OH 44035 TREATMENTS

CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

OUR TOWN

RETIRING IN STYLE ARTICLE BETH GLENNON PHOTOGRAPHY CAPE ALBEON

RETIRING IN STYLE 26

Kirkwood Lifestyle | September 2020

“CAPE ALBEON IS MORE THAN A SENIOR COMMUNIT Y. IT’S A FEELING OF GRACE AND STYLE WHERE FRIENDSHIPS ARE FORMED, AND LIFE IS LIVED.”

AS YOU TURN ON TO LAKE BEND DRIVE, YOU DISCOVER A SENIOR LIVING OASIS UNLIKE ANY OTHER. Located on the edge of Kirkwood, the 18-acre Lakeside Retirement community at Cape Albeon feels like living in a quiet New England village. Chat with neighbors across white picket fences or enjoy bird watching around the lake. Cape Albeon is more than a senior community. It's a feeling of grace and style where friendships are formed, and life is lived. The active Men's Club and Ladies Group invite local choirs, college professors, and world travelers to educate and entertain the retirement community. A favorite and frequent guest performer is Greg Warren. Greg, a professional comedian, and Kirkwood High School graduate, shares his time and talent with the Cape Albeon community. While previously scheduled trips to museums, local attractions, shopping and water aerobics are on hold during the pandemic, residents and staff continue to practice safe social distancing for outdoor happy hours, birthday parties, arts and crafts, and games. Line dancing and book clubs are both fun and mask-friendly. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

OUR TOWN (CONTINUED)

Need some time for quiet contemplation and prayer? The walking paths and the seating around the lake provide an opportunity to reflect and breathe in this picturesque, natural habitat. Marvel at the American bald eagle that calls Cape Albeon home every year. Enjoy watching 200 geese take flight across the morning sky. At the end of the day, enjoy a relaxing dinner at home while watching the sunset over the lake. Or, join friends and family for some fantastic food at the Harbor. The responsive staff is ready to deliver an exceptional experience. The remarkably friendly team at Cape Albeon is has been around for such a long time that they end up feeling like family. Retiring

style

means

living

life

that

matches your particular lifestyle. Meaningful and funfilled days spent with friends and caring people who truly put you first, surrounded by nature; Welcome to Cape Albeon.

Kirkwood Lifestyle | September 2020

“ THE REMARKABLY FRIENDLY TE AM AT CAPE ALBEON IS HAS BEEN AROUND FOR SUCH A LONG TIME THAT THEY END UP FEELING LIKE FAMILY.”

CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

LOCALLY OWNED

SMILE WITH ST YLE ARTICLE BETH GLENNON PHOTOGRAPHY BRIAN PORTER

A CONVERSATION WITH DR. BLAKE BORELLO, OWNER OF BORELLO ORTHODONTICS "I APPRECIATE PARENTS WHO ARE HOME MORE FREQUENTLY

THAN

AM,"

THE

fidence that came from having braces stuck with me. I'm

ORTHODONTIST REFLECTS ON LIVING THROUGH A

thankful that I now help kids and adults love their smile."

PANDEMIC WITH HIS WIFE AND THREE CHILDREN,

Borello Orthodontics celebrated its 5th anniversary this

BROOKLYN, BEAU, AND BECKHAM MAVERICK. "It's

year. "I'm fortunate to be able to practice in the heart of

a test of mental endurance," states Blake. "We try to stay

Kirkwood. I love being able to walk to different restaurants."

patient and positive with the kids. COVID-19 has given us a

Sapore is one of Blake's favorite restaurants, particularly

new appreciation for different aspects of our lives."

their Chicken Siciliano. "I appreciate the special way they

Blake developed an attitude of gratitude at an early age. "When I was young, my teeth went every which way but right. I was afraid to smile. I appreciated the personal

connection I had with my orthodontist. My smile and con-

KIRKWOOD

Kirkwood Lifestyle | September 2020

prepare it for me by adding a side of fried spinach." Thanks, Blake, for reminding us to appreciate simple things in life. You make us smile.

Isn’t Anti-Aging......Living?

Maybe we should talk less about aging and more about living……

Live Vibrant. Live Beautiful. Call Nouveau Medspa for acomplementary consultation.

Carol Anderson Owner/RN/CANS

(314) 394-3314 | nouveaumedspa.com CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

CULINARY CREATIONS

SWEET P OTATO SCRAMBLE (FOR ONE)

M I X INGREDIENTS

+ 2 eggs + A dash of flax milk + Cumin + Salt + pepper + ½ sweet potato, cubed + ¼ green onion, chopped + ¼ cup spinach + Handful of broccoli florets + Ghee butter or avocado oil for cooking

TOPPING IDEAS

+ Cooked salmon + Hot sauce + Chia seeds or flax seeds + Fresh parsley

DIRECTIONS 01 Whisk together your eggs, milk, and spices. 02 Prepare a skillet over medium heat with your ghee butter or avocado oil. Cook the sweet potato, green onion, and broccoli for 5-8 minutes. Add the spinach and cook for 1 more minute. 03 Pour your egg mixture into the skillet and scramble together until the eggs are your desired texture, roughly 3 minutes. 04 Immediately add your cooked salmon, seeds, parsley, or hot sauce and ARTICLE HAYLEY HYER

I T 32

Kirkwood Lifestyle | September 2020

enjoy while it’s still hot!

U P

•

Window Washing

•

Gutter Cleaning

•

Power Washing

•

Roof Cleaning

•

Christmas Lights

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE

SHACKSHINE.COM | 1-888-808-7751

National Strength, Hometown Service Enjoy a simple, efficient and delightful home loan experience. Call Mike Swaleh at (314) 478-3699 Fairway Independent Mortgage 12213 Big Bend Rd., Kirkwood, MO 63122

NMLS# 739145

NMLS#1609357

@fairwaystlouis CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood 33

driving

PARTING THOUGHTS

WITH STYLE MONTE HERRING, OWNER OF HERRING DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT, CONNECTS DRIVING VINTAGE CARS TO BUILDING TIMELESS HOMES

WHETHER IT’S FIXING CARS OR BUILDING HOUSES, MONTE HERRING, OWNER OF HERRING DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT,

PASSIONATE

ABOUT

DRIVING,

DESIGNING, AND DISCOVERING NEW WAYS BUILD THINGS. “I want things to work well, be long-lasting, and have a style that is appreciated. I am able to put that stamp on both my cars and houses.” WHEN DID YOU FIRST BECOME INTERESTED IN CARS? When I was 16, I convinced my Grandparents to co-sign a loan for a sports car that I had no business buying. It was a rotary engine Mazda RX-7. I worked on it, cleaned it up, sold it, and made a few bucks. Then I did the same thing with my next car and many cars after that. DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE CAR? Porches. I like their German engineering because you can drive them to the track, beat them up, and drive them home. DESCRIBE WORKING ON VINTAGE RACE CARS AT THE INDY 500. I have friends on the professional racing circuit who invite me to help run their cars at the Indy 500. Many of the vintage race cars were hand-built in the ’60s and ’70s. It’s a whole orchestra of events to get the cars running. And they breakdown every time you run them. My favorite part is when a car breaks down. There’s so much excitement around getting it fixed and back out there. I love to take a challenge, fix it, and see the results. CAN YOU COMPARE YOUR PASSION FOR WORKING ON CARS TO YOUR PASSION FOR BUILDING HOUSES? In 100 years from now, I want the houses I built to still be standing and to still have a unique style that’s appreciated, just like vintage cars. ARTICLE JAMES KAUFFMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY HEIDI DREXLER 34

Kirkwood Lifestyle | September 2020