Issuu

JULY 2020

CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

"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

JULY 2020 PUBLISHER

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

Jordan Moore | jordan.moore@lifestylepubs.com

Summer's Songs and Stories. AFTER WEEKS OF BEING INSIDE, THE ARRIVAL OF SUMMER MAKES ME WANT TO SING! Of course, I'll leave the singing to the professionals, like Joanna Serenko (on the cover), and I'll stick to sharing stories. One of my favorite stories is about how a locally-owned restaurants set the scene for a remarkable conversation. A couple, I’ll call them Chris and Carrie, were enjoying their date night in downtown Kirkwood. As they strolled around town, Chris and Carrie talked about their ideas, hopes,

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Heidi Drexler | heidi@heididrexlerphotography.com AD DESIGNER

Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER

Jayme Emery CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Renee Moore, Beth Glennon, James Kauffman, Jessica Senne CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Alise O'Brien, Matt Marcinkowski, Studio Lark, Andrew Lee Photography, Brian Porter, NBC's "The Voice"

and dreams of moving to Kirkwood someday. After dinner, they wandered over to Tropical Moose, because their evening wouldn’t be complete without their favorite frozen treat. While they enjoyed the summer sunset, Chris noticed an older couple sitting on a bench nearby. “I’m going to go talk to that couple,” Chris stated. “Typical Chris,” thought Carrie. Her husband knew no strangers. Chris walked over and started chatting with the older couple; I’ll call them Bob and Brenda. What happened next is exactly the type of thing that makes living in this community so remarkable.

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

Upon hearing how much Chris and Carrie wanted to move to Kirkwood, Bob said,

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

“Let’s go look at some great places around town.” Bob and Brenda spent the next

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

two hours driving Chris and Carrie around Kirkwood. They shared stories about

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

their favorite neighborhoods and the history of some of their favorite houses. During the drive, Carrie pointed out one of the houses she dreamed of living in. Naturally, Bob and Brenda knew the history of that house. They also knew the owner wanted to put the house on the market. The rest of the story writes itself. But the story only writes itself because that’s the type of community we live in. We strike up conversations. We invite people in. We connect with strangers over snow cones.

If we keep kindness and inclusion at our core, as our truth, then we set the bar for

every other community around us. And that is something to sing about. Renee Moore, Publisher 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ON THE COVER Joanna Serenko

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NBC’S “THE VOICE” 4

Kirkwood Lifestyle | July 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.

INSIDE THE ISSUE JULY 2020

FEATURES 12 All Who Wander Are Not Lost Kris Kinsinger shares his favorite camping locations.

22 Something to Sing About Kirkwood resident, Joanna Serenko, talks about life before, during, and after “The Voice.”

26 Let’s Go Eat! It’s at our restaurants where some of the best conversations take place.

22 12

30 Is This a Park? Paul and Teri Weber talk about outdoor living in their back yard.

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Road Trip

Renovate & Refine

22 Local Limelight 26 Our Town 30 Locally Owned

•

Window Washing

•

Gutter Cleaning

•

Power Washing

•

Roof Cleaning

•

Christmas Lights

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE

SHACKSHINE.COM | 1-888-808-7751

Connect with the People (and Pets) you love! Community creates higher vibration, which makes all of us more vibrant, healthier, happier, and more beautiful!

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National Strength, Hometown Service

A MORTGAGE BUILT JUST FOR YOU Call Mike Swaleh at (314) 478-3699 NMLS# 739145

Fairway Independent Mortgage 12213 Big Bend Rd., Kirkwood, MO 63122

NMLS#1609357

@fairwaystlouis CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

GOOD TIMES

Lions, and Tigers, and Bears... and Unicorns, Oh, my! Brent Kirkpatrick, owner of Party Animals Mobile, has been busy making DIY Stuff-a-Bear Kit deliveries around town. The kit includes an animal of your choice, stuffing packets, heart insert, birth certificate, carry box, and a white t-shirt. Party Animals Mobile donates to Kirkwood Early Childhood Center and the St. Louis Area COVID-19 Regional Response Fund.

#StrangeDonutDay supports local non-profits Last month was National Donut Day. In Kirkwood, it was #StrangeDonutDay. The local donut shop sold a limited supply of Done Dude Tags. The tags allow people to receive a free donut with any purchase for a year. The money raised from these tags supports StrangeCares, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri, and Girls on the Run St. Louis.

Kirkwood Lifestyle | July 2020

AROUND TOWN

Montessori for Life REAL ESTATE, EXERCISE, AND FUN Kirkwood Realtor, Teri Nicely, is passionate about three things: Real Estate, Exercise, and Fun. As the proud owner of a new Pedego bike, Teri incorporates all three of her favorite things throughout her day. “Because of COVID-19, I am spending more time sanitizing surfaces and turning lights on before showing my homes for sale. I love jumping on my bike and zooming over to my current listings. It’s so much fun, and every ride makes me smile.” Seeing Teri pedaling around town makes us smile.

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

LIFE IN QUARANTINE - STORIES WRITTEN BY KIRKWOOD KIDS Kirkwood Public Library held a short story writing contest for kids ages 7-13, encouraging them to write stories of life in quarantine inspired by the popular I Survived book series by Lauren Tarshis. Entries included stories that expressed concerns and fears, that found solutions through friendship and family, that had us

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

laughing out loud, and showed compassion for our world. Congratulations to the top three winners; 1st Place: Anna P. (Age 11) 2nd Place: Abigail S. (Age 11) 3rd

Kirkwood Lifestyle | July 2020

Place: Jake M. (Age 11). Read their stories at

https://kirkwoodpubliclibrary.org/

blog/2020/06/04/i-survived-shortstory-contest-winners/

GOOD NERVE = GOOD HEALTH. BAD NERVE = BAD HEALTH.

HERE’S HOW ONE 10-YEAR-OLD HELPED LOCAL BUSINESSES We want to give a very special shout-

Find out more at GettingWeller.com

out to this sweet girl, Noa Vazquez. She has been making masks since this pandemic began and has raised over $8,000.00 for local businesses so far. She is only ten years old! We are so amazed and inspired by her. You can purchase her masks at sammysoap in Kirkwood.

KIRKWOOD – DES PERES AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE We applaud Peg Weathers, President / CEO of Kirkwood-Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce, for continuing to make business better with the new website. Engage with chambers members through the new Membership Visibility feature. Revised business categories and a new enhanced search feature make it easy to find and connect with key business leaders around town.

GettingWeller.com

13100 Manchester Rd., Suite 65 Des Peres, MO 63131 636.527.3015 CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

ROAD TRIP ARTICLE JAMES KAUFFMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY ANDREW LEE PHOTOGRAPHY

A l l W h o Wa n d e r Are Not Lost FULL DISCLOSURE, READING THIS ARTICLE WILL MAKE YOU WANT TO TRAVEL WEST. As the weather gets warmer, and the parks start to open, we wanted to find the best places to explore.Â As much as we love visiting the local parks, we decided to gather the camping gear, pack the car, and head out west. But where? Avid outdoorsman, Kris Kinsinger, Director of Sales & Marketing at Two Blind Guys, shares his favorite camping locations and his amazing pictures. Who's up for an adventure? 12

Kirkwood Lifestyle | July 2020

WHERE ARE YOUR FAVORITE DESTINATIONS?

FAVORITE TIME OF DAY ON A CAMPING TRIP?

I love traveling to Colorado. Telluride and Frisco, and specifically

The time between dinner and bedtime is when we usually sit

Dillon Reservoir, are some of my favorite places to camp. A little further

around a campfire, recap the day, share some adult beverages, and

west, in Moab, UT, you can spend all day exploring massive red rock

enjoy good company.

formations. Fins & Things is a loop trail in Utah known for off-roading. My other favorite places are Black Bear Pass and the Alpine Loop in

WHAT'S MOST IMPORTANT WHEN IT COMES TO PRE-PLAN-

Colorado. But, you don't have to leave Missouri to experience scenic

NING YOUR ADVENTURE?

back-roads. The Mark Twain National Forest is right in our backyard.

Proper camping gear and clothing shouldn't be a recommendation but a requirement. Visit the Alpine Shop and make sure you have everything

DO YOU TRAVEL TO ANY "HIDDEN GEMS"? In Moab, UT, there is a 100-mile trail inside Canyonlands National Park. If you're looking for seclusion, this is the place. It's a remote

you need for your trip. Most people forget about meal prepping. I like quick meals that can be thrown together in a skillet or pot. Most importantly, bring emergency equipment (first aid, vehicle recovery gear, etc.).

location, with no cell service, and few people on the trail, so make sure to bring friends on this journey.

DO YOU HAVE A CHECKLIST OF THINGS YOU BRING EVERY TIME?

WHAT DO YOU DO ONCE YOU ARRIVE? There is so much to explore in Moab, UT. I love taking the White Rim Trail. We split it up over two days and camp overnight at a tiny

We have a pre-planning list for each aspect camping: clothing, food prep, vehicle maintenance prep, camping equipment, and a tentative trip timeline of destinations on specific dates.

spot called Murphy Hogback. It's one of our all-time favorite campsites because it overlooks the Canyonlands.

HAS THERE BEEN A TIME WHEN YOU NEEDED SOMETHING YOU DIDN'T HAVE?

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE "MOUNTAIN TOP" EXPERIENCE? Hands down, the top of Black Bear Pass. The mountain pass is between Telluride and Ouray, CO. Once you reach the peak, you go

Unfortunately, yes. As much as we try to pre-plan, we have inevitably run into situations where we weren't properly equipped. We try and think of everything, but some surprises arise.

right down the other side. As a bonus, on the way down, you see Bridal Beil Falls, an awesome waterfall.

CONTINUED >

alpine shop finds TENT

Bear Creek’s 4 person tent is great for the whole family HIKING SHOES

Teva’s are great for day hikes and week-long excursions SLEEPING BAG

Thermarest’s sleeping bag will keep you warm all night HAMMOCK

ENO’s DoubleNest hammock reigns supreme WATER BOTTLE

Hydro Flask’s new designs showcase National Parks CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

ROAD TRIP (CONTINUED)

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE BRAND OR PIECE OF EQUIPMENT? I love my Tepui rooftop tent and awning. It's a real game-changer in our travels. HAVE YOU EVER GOTTEN LOST? Yes. One time on the White Rim Trail, we took a bypass and ended up getting into some sketchy trails along the river. ANY OFF-ROAD VEHICLE RECOMMENDATIONS? In the past, I took my 98' Toyota 4Runner, which I just sold and replaced with a 03' Lexus GX470. It's fully equipped with an Old Man Emu Kit, Bud Built Sliders, RCI Skids plates, and various other off-road related equipment for easier traveling. WHAT LEVEL OF EXPERIENCE IS NEEDED TO GO OFF-ROADING? It depends on where you are going. Some trails are not as difficult, and a standard, non-modified vehicle can travel on them. Other trails require a 4x4 vehicle that is explicitly outfitted for off-road or overlanding trails. Research the trails before you go to make sure you have the proper vehicle. HAVE YOU EVER HAD A DANGEROUS EXPERIENCE WITH WILDLIFE? Surprisingly, I haven't run across too many scenarios where I have been in danger because of wildlife. I have seen bears, snakes, and other animals, but fortunately, I have not had first-hand experience with any of them. ANY LAST PIECE OF ADVICE? Don't go on any trails alone. I always travel in a group setting when heading out west. In the back county, you often don't have good reception, leaving you to be self-reliant. I find it's best to do that with a team because we all have different skills and equipment we bring to the table.

Kirkwood Lifestyle | July 2020

easy camping recipes: + Campfire Nachos + Chicken Kebabs + Foil Pack French Dip Sandwiches + Egg and Sausage Breakfast Taquitos + S’Mores (duh)

“Hands down, the top of Black Bear Pass is my favorite ‘Mountain Top’ experience.”

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

“I LOVE TRAVELING TO COLORADO. TELLURIDE AND FRISCO, AND SPECIFICALLY DILLON RESERVOIR, ARE SOME OF MY FAVORITE PLACES TO CAMP.”

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.

Kirkwood Lifestyle | July 2020

CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

RENOVATE & REFINE

LOCAL DESIGNERS AND OWNERS OF STUDIO LARK SHARE TIPS ON MAKING YOUR HOME STYLISH AND RELAXING THIS SEASON

RELAX IN STYLE PLE’S HOMES. We absolutely love seeing our clients enjoy their spaces when a project is completed. With the warmer months upon us, we are delighted to share a few tips for making your home fresh and relaxing — both indoors and outdoors — during the summer season. The easiest way to freshen up a space is to take away, not add. When working with clients, we take everything out of a space and only put back key pieces that the client loves. Edit the planters on your patio, clear out your cluttered shelves and give priority to your favorite possessions. Less really is more, and you can transform spaces by simply getting rid of what no longer speaks to your style. We often hear clients express concern that white interiors are ‘too stark’ but painting a space white is one of the easiest ways to maximize natural light within an area. Very dark tones like charcoal and black are excellent choices for

ARTICLE JESSICA SENNE | PHOTOGRAPHY ALISE

TIME (ALONG WITH MY PARTNER, AARON) THINKING ABOUT OTHER PEO-

O’BRIEN, STUDIO LARK, MATT MARCINKOWSKI

AS CO-OWNER OF KIRKWOOD-BASED STUDIO LARK, I SPEND A LOT OF

adding visual impact and drama to pieces within a space. The key is to approach your home as a neutral backdrop for artwork and accessories and steer away from medium-toned neutrals, which appear safe and indecisive. Go for high-impact light walls contrasted with confident dark accents and add color with textiles and accessories. Love wine? Carve out a wine cellar that serves double duty as a feature wall. Love to sit by the fire or listen to the sound of water? Introduce a feature element like a fire pit or fountain. The key is to focus. We recommend that people identify where to concentrate the budget in a targeted, high-impact way, rather than spread the budget too thinly throughout a space.

ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR Jessica and Aaron Senne, co-owners

Kirkwood-based

Studio

Lark, believe each project is as unique as the individuals who own them. 18

Kirkwood Lifestyle | July 2020

Uncluttered spaces create feelings of calm and tranquility.

If you have the budget to renovate, tackle one â€œbig moveâ€? that speaks to your individual personality.

Well lit spaces bring a feeling of warmth and comfort

CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

S O ME T H ING T O SI N G A B O U T

ARTICLE RENEE MOORE | PHOTOGRAPHY NBC’S “THE VOICE”

Kirkwood Lifestyle | July 2020

SHE HAS A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITY IN FRONT

back on it, the Blind Audition was probably the easiest

OF HER AND INCREDIBLY SUPPORTIVE FAMILY

of the rounds. All I had to do was go on stage and show

AND FRIENDS AROUND HER. 19-year-old, Kirkwood

what I could do. If I could turn one chair, I would move on.

resident, Joanna Serenko, talks about life before, during,

I didn't have to worry about competing against anybody

and after "The Voice."

or preparing a song that I didn't know.

MUSICAL INFLUENCES

THE COACHES

My mom introduced me to music. By six, I was taking

Nick: I didn't expect Nick to be as musical as he is

piano and voice lessons. I discovered my love for per-

because I had always imagined him as the boy I saw in

forming through recitals and musicals. During my soph-

concert when I was eight years old. Nick is super tal-

omore year of high school, I began writing and playing

ented and knows how to make the best performance

original music. I found my style through the influences

physically and emotionally.

of many different genres and people. Today, my music

John: We had only had about 30 minutes to work

taste is eclectic and random. I love to experience new

together. John was very helpful in articulating what he

music in a way so that it becomes a part of me.

wanted to hear vocally. He taught me how to manifest that and how to improve on that aspect.

PLAN B I was planning to attend Maryville University last August. Like many first-year college students, I didn't

Blake: I've only worked with Blake remotely. He's a very down to earth person. He was great about saying, "Have confidence. Trust yourself and your abilities."

know exactly what I was going to study. I was leaning toward health sciences because my mom is a nurse, and

LIVE. FROM HOME

I care about people's well-being. I planned to study health

In some ways, filming the live show from home was a

science while working on finding new opportunities in

blessing because there was no pressure to sing in front

music. Then, producers of "The Voice" contacted me.

of a live audience, and I was with family and friends. On the other hand, it was difficult because I was missing

OPPORTUNITY CALLS I received an email from the producers of "The Voice"

the energy of a live audience. I had to create and harness that energy to give the best performance.

inviting me to a private audition for the upcoming Season 18. I had tried out for "The Voice" previously but did not

YOU WANT THIS WHERE?

advance past the second audition. This time, producers

Annie Serenko (Joanna's Mom), On Saturday, before

of the show reached out to me, so it seemed promising.

the Live from Home round, I went for an afternoon jog

My boyfriend, Tyler Dale, a musician in St. Louis, and I

but could not get past the boxes unloaded onto our

drove to Louisville for the audition last June.

front porch. There were carpets, pillows, candles, plants, lights, and tables to set up for her upcoming perfor-

AND SO, IT BEGINS

mance of her dedication song "Lean On Me." Joanna

I was having a great time in Los Angeles with the other

and I eagerly set up the home decor in the basement

singers preparing for Season 18. Before I knew it, the

for an impressive set only to find out the producers

Blind Audition rolled around. I was nervous. But looking

wanted Joanna to sing outside on the upstairs deck.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

Following their instructions, Joanna and I rolled up the

THE COMPETITION

carpet and hauled it, along with the other home decor,

It was challenging to think of this as a competition.

onto the upstairs deck. Set up was a major task, but

I've become super close to everyone throughout the

producers talked us through exactly what they wanted.

past couple of months. I competed against one of my

Pillows, tables, and plants were set according to their

best friends, Mandi Castillo. I know it's a competition,

specifications. Once the set was approved, we were

but at the same time, these are my friends, and I feel

instructed where to place the cameras based on the

bad because one of us had to be chosen over the other.

preferred angle and the sun's expected position during the recording of her live performance.

THE PRESSURE Sometimes, the pressure was good, and sometimes

NOT NERVOUS NOW

the pressure was not good. It was a challenge. I've

Annie Serenko (Joanna's Mom), I am not nervous when

learned so much about myself mentally, emotionally,

Joanna performs because she typically has things under

and spiritually. There were times when my nerves

control. When she was younger, I would worry that she

would overpower me and hinder my performance in a

would lack the confidence on stage to deal with the unex-

way that I didn't want. But I learned from it. I was able

pected. Now she has stage presence, confidence, and the

to take that and move on. I'm still working on control,

personality to just "go with the flow." It was actually fun to

how to navigate working under pressure, how to learn

watch her think on her feet when the coaches would try

songs and perform them, and how to take criticism.

to "steal" her. I admire her witty responses to the coach's

Singing is a psychological game. If you doubt yourself,

comments. It made the show interesting and fun to watch.

then it comes out in your music.

Kirkwood Lifestyle | July 2020

“EVERYONE’S PATH IS DIFFERENT, BUT NO MATTER WHERE I END UP, I’M ALWAYS GOING TO BE IN MUSIC.” WHAT'S NEXT? This show has given me a whole new confi-

FAVORITE PLACE TO PERFORM AROUND TOWN

dence. It's taught me that I could make it in the

I have a residency at Montrey's Cigar

music industry. I would love to get a scholarship

Lounge in Ferguson. I sing and play there

to study music. My opportunities for educa-

with my friend, Pete Lombardo, a local

tion are still something I'm working through.

St. Louis guitarist. The crowd loves good

Everyone's path is different, but no matter

music, and I get to sing my favorite covers.

where I end up, I'm always going to be in music. I've done gigs at Blueberry Hill, Schlaflys, Petrichor Brewing, KDHX, and various DREAM CAREER I would love to go to Nashville to be a

locations for Sofar Sounds. Now, I'm ready to expand my venues.

fulltime singer, songwriter, and musician. I have one original song on Spotify and

THANK YOU, KIRKWOOD

iTunes called "Best of Me." It's a song about

The amount of support from St. Louis

questioning why I was holding on to some-

has been incredible. My family, friends,

thing (someone) that is not good for me. I

and music community have been amaz-

wrote it and recorded it last summer in New

ing. I was so lucky to have a great com-

York with my cousin, Jake Goldbas, who is

munity cheering me on. I believe that

a drummer. I have a whole album of new

James Taylor was right when he said, "St

music I'm excited to release.

Louis is a great music town."

CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

OUR TOWN

let’s go eat! ARTICLE JAMES KAUFFMAN

IT IS SAFE TO ASSUME THAT KIDS’ FAVORITE SEASON IS SUMMER. It’s more than just the absence of school that makes summer special. For kids, it’s about adventure, exploring new places, trying new things, and making new friends around the neighborhood. After months of staying inside, it is safe to assume that most adults are ready to reclaim summer as their favorite season. With the help of some of our favorite, locally-owned restaurants, Kirkwood Lifestyle invites you to go on a food tasting adventure, explore new places and try new things. Best of all, we encourage you to make new friends, not just in your neighborhood but also in our communities. Strike up a conversation with someone you don’t know. After all, it’s at our restaurants where some of the best conversations take place. Our local restaurants allow families and friends to gather, reconnect, and share stories. But this summer, let’s take it to another level and start a conversation with someone new. Take a moment and introduce yourself to your server, the owner, or the person sitting near you. This month, Kirkwood Lifestyle is running a social media contest to win a $100 gift card to your favorite local restaurant. But we don’t want to see pictures of food. We want to see pictures of faces – family faces, faces of friends, and folks you just met. Simply post your smiling faces and tag any restaurant and Kirkwood Lifestyle. Each post will get you one entry into our drawing held on July 31st. We’re on Instagram @kirkwoodlifestylemagazine and Facebook @Kirkwoodlifestyle. Family, friends, food, and fun makes summer our favorite season. 26

Kirkwood Lifestyle | July 2020

612 kitchen & cocktails

612 is bringing exciting new items to the menu, adding flatbread

pizza favorites to the lunch and dinner menu, and changing up the whole landscape with new chef Matthew Ahearn. (612 W Woodbine Ave, Kirkwood; 314-965-2003).

amigos cantina

Enjoy our Mexican inspired dining with traditional cuisine and our

award-winning margarita that is hand-shaken to order. Our newly renovated outdoor seating, El Porche, is the perfect place to relax and enjoy our delicious cuisine and variety of drinks to satisfy any taste.

citizen kane’s market place A few years after opening Citizen Kane’s Steakhouse in 1993,

Frank Kane had the idea to open a butcher shop next door. Citizen Kane’s Market Place features prime steaks, pork, Norwegian Salmon, and specialty items, including sandwiches, salads, beer, and wine. Patio dining available. Hours: Wednesday – Saturday 11:00 – 6:00 pm Sunday 11:00 – 4:00 pm.

gelato di riso

We serve fresh, authentic Italian gelato that is velvety in tex-

ture and rich in flavor. Dolce Gelatos are made with natural flavors and milk, instead of high-fat cream, for guiltless indulgence. Frutta Gelatos are made with real fruit. Open for, lunch and dinner Wednesday - Sunday, gelato is the perfect addition to every meal. Molto bene!

helen fitzgerald’s

This local favorite is a restaurant/bar/club chameleon: The nature

of the venue depends on when you go. We are excited in the next few months to return to normalcy with live music and our energetic atmosphere. During these times, we appreciate the local support

CONTINUED >

from our amazing community; we are truly stronger together! CityLifestyle.com/Kirkwood

OUR TOWN (CONTINUED)

kaldi’s

The Avocado Toast at Kaldi’s has become an icon

over the last few years. It’s perfect for Sunday brunch or a light snack to share. If you’re looking for a refreshing drink this summer, try the new Lavender Mint latte. The house-made syrup is combined with your choice of milk and espresso to create a smooth, floral, light drink.

kirkwood pop co.

Pop in our gourmet popcorn shop offering more

than a dozen sweet and savory flavors. With customizable bags and popcorn tins, there’s something for everyone. Not sure which flavor to choose? Ask for a sample! Make flavor suggestions in-store and online. We provide fundraising options varying from door-todoor sales or profit share days at the store.

mike duffy’s

We’ve built more than a business; we’ve built a

family. Since 1986, Duffy’s has served our community with meals you’d be proud to share with your family. Through the years, we’ve made every moment taste better. Whether you’re stopping by for a beer or reuniting with your friends, our family will always welcome you home.

olive and oak

Olive + Oak is a friendly, bustling neighborhood

restaurant and bar in the heart of Old Webster — a spot where the very best in food and drink is served in a welcoming setting. It’s the perfect place to enjoy great wine, craft beer, well-made drinks, and thoughtful, ingredient-driven food with friends and family.

one 19 north

Enjoy delicious Tapas in Downtown Kirkwood. We’ve

added additional tables outside! New menu items just for summer include Lemon Artichoke Flatbread and four great new salad options; Black & Blue, Caprese, One 19 Summer Salad & our Wedge!

p.j.’s tavern

Join us on our outdoor patio and discover how over

two decades of delicious food, fun atmosphere, and courteous staff has evolved into the premier neighborhood family restaurant in Kirkwood. From nachos and salads to wraps and grilled salmon, our robust menu is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters (kids love the PB&J and corn dogs).

Kirkwood Lifestyle | July 2020

sunset 44

Our local, family-owned restaurant features a variety of

cuisines, based on the chef’s heritage and culinary experiences. We offer an extensive wine list with over 200 wines to choose, and we are known for the “Sunset Pour” (8 oz. glasses of wine).

the frisco barroom

Located in the Old Orchard district of Webster Groves, our

rustic, midwestern inspired menu is available for carryout and patio seating. Our new Online Market offers house-baked bread, roasted meats, sauces, dips, family meals, and more. Baked goods and many other additions are coming soon!

the greek kitchen

This Kirkwood gem makes their food from scratch the

authentic traditional Greek way. They have won several awards in just a short time, including best soup in the Manor Grove “Soups On” competition (Avgolemono), and the best Greek restaurant in St. Louis by two magazines. Sinful desserts, flaming cheese, Greek wines, and romantic ambiance awaits at the Greek Kitchen. OPA!

tropical moose

Tro Mo is St. Louis’ premier shaved ice stand, located in

downtown Kirkwood.

twisted tree steakhouse Our mission is to create an extraordinary experience

through amazing food and exceptional service. Using only the finest cuts of 100% Pure Black Angus Prime Beef, Chef Tyler Layton also utilizes local seasonal ingredients and homemade sauces. With continually evolving menu items, we are remodeling an additional dining room planned to be completed by the end of Summer.

weber’s front row

Sit back and relax. The kids can enjoy the arcade games

while you have a front-row seat to all the games on over 30 H.D. T.V.’s. Enjoy thin-crust pizza and toasted ravioli along

“Post your smiling faces and tag any restaurant and Kirkwood Lifestyle. Each post will get you one entry into our drawing held on July 31st.”

with our classic sandwiches, burgers, and our award-winning hot wings.

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LOCALLY OWNED

is this

ARTICLE BETH GLENNON PHOTOGRAPHY BRIAN PORTER

a pa r k ? "IS THIS A PARK?" Teri Weber asked her husband, Paul, as she stepped out into the back yard of the ranch home in Kirkwood's Windsor Acres neighborhood. "No. It's part of the house," Paul replied. "What do you think?" In October of 1995, Teri and Paul were ready to put their house-hunting search on hold until the spring. "I had twoyear-old twin boys, and I was pregnant with my daughter, who was due in December," recalls Teri. "We had been looking 30

Kirkwood Lifestyle | July 2020

CONTINUED >

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LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

for a ranch style house for over a year, and we just weren't finding anything." So, when the Weber's real estate agent told them there was one more house they needed to see, Teri was skeptical. Her first thought upon seeing the house was, "Oh. This needs so much work." Paul adds, "If you opened the kitchen door and

"The pond was owned by the Nepper's, who were

kept walking, you'd fall down the basement steps." But

one of the three original orchard farmers in the area.

then Teri saw the back yard. "I was in shock over how

In the late '40s and early '50s, everyone came over

beautiful it was. The yard and the pond were perfect for

to Nepper's Pond to go skating and fishing."

Jack. We got this house because of Jack."

The three Weber kids, Jack, Joe, and Kelly, grew up

Jack is the Weber's 24-year-old son with special

with a back yard that became a gathering place for

needs. At the time the Weber's bought the house,

family, friends, and neighbors. "When the kids were

two-year-old Jack was not walking, therefore, a ranch-

little, we had bonfires," Teri remembers. "We fished,

style home would pose fewer obstacles for Jack. The

ice skated, played hockey. That space was used for so

Weber’s faces light up when they talk about Jack. "Jack

many things."

brings out the kindness in people,” says Paul. “He

Over the past 22 years, Teri and Paul have happily

brings out the curiosity and love. It's interesting when

opened their back yard to host weddings, huge family

you realize there are no perfect families. Every family

celebrations (Paul comes from a family of nine kids),

has special needs. Some are just more visible. Teri and

and neighborhood events. The annual neighborhood

I have always said that because Jack's needs are so vis-

Easter egg hunt is one of Teri's favorite events. "We

ible, we think it's less of a struggle than families facing

hide 500 – 600 eggs in the back yard. The entire neigh-

hidden mental anguish."

borhood comes over."

“Over the past 22 years, Teri and Paul have happily opened their back yard to host weddings, huge family celebrations (Paul comes from a family of nine kids), and neighborhood events.” "We were so blessed to find this house," states Teri.

It makes sense, then, that the Weber's have continu-

"The outdoor space is perfect for Jack. He loves the

ally expanded and updated their outdoor living space.

fountain, and we fish." When Teri and Paul discovered

"One of the first things we did was build the patio

that Kirkwood allows one domesticated farm animal

with a built-in fire pit by the pond," Paul explained.

per acre, Princess came to live on the Weber's two-acre

Jerry Pence, a horticulture teacher at Meramac,

land. "We decided to get a horse for Jack because he

designed the landscaping around the patio around the

was in a therapeutic horseback riding program. Princess

fire pit. The Weber's added another sitting area centered

was a rescue horse and pretty much our lawnmower."

around a fire table. That space eventually expanded

Considering how spacious and serene the back yard

to include an adjacent outdoor kitchen built by Ryan

is, it's no surprise that the Weber's love when people

Leeker, the owner of Petra Masonry. John Jacobson, the

come over to enjoy the space.

owner of Liquid Assets, updated the pool and the hot

Historically, neighbors have been "coming over" for

tub area. Patti Porter, the owner of Rusted Chandelier,

generations. Teri recounts the history of their pond.

accessorized the space. And the tiny back porch that Teri stepped onto 22 years ago has been expanded into an enormous 3-season outdoor living room. "It's been an idyllic place for our kids to grow up," reflects Teri.

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