THE
Local Love ISSUE
F E B R UA RY 2 02 4
CONGRATULATIONS on your engagement!
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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KWO O D
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
Love Local
February 2024 PUBLISHER
"The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members." - Coretta Scott King. This issue marks the fourth anniversary of Kirkwood City Lifestyle magazine. Four years ago, as a new business owner, the first thing I did was walk into the Kirkwood - Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce. Here's how that conversation went, "Hi. My name is Renee. I don't know anyone here. But this may be a good place to start meeting people." Here's what happened next. Beth Wideman and Iris Colyer, the powerhouse staff at the Kirkwood - Des Peres Chamber, instantly made me feel right at home and introduced me to a bunch of people. The Kirkwood - Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce is a community of compassionate members. You may think, "But it's a business group, right? Insurance and finance men in suites? An old boy's club?" Nope. It's the exact opposite. We have a vibrant young entrepreneur group, an active women's group, and, ok, yes - there are a few men in the insurance/finance biz, but I'll say this - Jon Schwendeman, Jim Gura, Elias Corpas, Kirk Faubel, and Hardy Washington are five of the most generous, compassionate, and community-oriented people you will ever meet. Our community is better because these guys are in it. As far as being a business group, this issue shares the stories of the Chamber's 2023 award winners - none of which are businesses. Scott Barthelmass is honored as the Citizen of the Year. Beth Fitzgerald, President of the Magic House, is honored as the Businessperson of the Year. Greentree Community Church is honored for its Distinguished Community Service. The entire staff at Friendship Village in Sunset Hills is honored for their Commitment to Community. And Joseph Godi is honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. As a member of both the Kirkwood - Des Peres Area Chamber and the Webster Groves / Shrewsbury / Rock Hill Area Chamber, I will share this piece of insight: The greatness of these communities is most assuredly the direct result of the community-forward, compassionate actions of these Chambers' members. They are why we love living, working, shopping, and dining locally. No matter where you live or work, if you would like to receive Kirkwood City Lifestyle Magazine directly to your home or office, email Renee.Moore@CityLifestyle.com. And remember to spread the love and shop local first. RENEE MOORE, PUBLISHER @KIRKWOODCITYLIFESTYLE
Renee Moore renee.moore@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R
Elizabeth Nowakowski elizabeth.nowakowski@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Iris Coyler, Chef Lydia Gwin, Lucy Rogers C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S
D'Anne Weber, Carey Campbell,
Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Evan Duevall LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Kirkwood City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Kirkwood area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle
Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/KIRKWOOD
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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
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 City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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inside the issue FE B RUA RY 2 0 2 4 | LOV E LO CA L
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Featured
08 16 20 32 6
Black Heritage Celebration 2024 Come celebrate on Saturday, February 17 at Mudd's Grove 9:00 am - 4:00 pm.
Businessperson of the Year
Beth Fitzgerald, President of The Magic House.
Distinguished Community Service
Greentree Community Church receives Kirkwood - Des Peres Area Chamber 2023 Distinguished Community Service Award
Citizen of the Year
Scott Barthelmass - Kirkwood – Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year.
32 On the Cover
Departments
Mark Borella, artist, owner of Seeds of Happiness, and member of the Kirkwood - Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce, perfectly paints the colors of a vibrant business community, reminding us why we love local.
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Lifestyle Letter
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Our Town ARTS + CULTURE
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Giving Back LIFE + CULTURE
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Local Limelight LIFE + CULTURE
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Inspired By LIFE + CULTURE
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Hometown Hero LIFE + CULTURE
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Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E
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Must See LIFE + CULTURE
Photography: Kirkwood Artist Mark Borella
Black Heritage Celebration 2024 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17 AT MUDD'S GROVE 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Fonda Fantroy Richards
"My family has lived in Kirkwood for four generations, and I want my grandchildren to have a place where they can see the impact that Black families have had on this community," said Fonda Fantroy Richards, Event Chair of the Black Heritage Celebration 2024. "This event is for people of all races and ages to come and learn about our roots. This is where my heart is." Black Heritage Celebration 2024 is the elevated version of last year's event at Mudd's Grove, home of the Kirkwood Historical Society. Committee member D'Anne Weber explained, "It was emotional to see the sheer joy of families and neighbors together last year. And even though the event in 2023 was great, we knew we could improve it." Fonda, D'Anne, Gaynelle Evans, Kylie Christanell, and Kirkwood Historical Society President Deb Hill-Jablonski are the visionaries behind the Black Heritage Celebration 2024, Saturday, February 17 at Mudd's Grove from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. This free event includes a tour of Kirkwood's historic locations viewed from the comfort of a narrated, luxury ADA motor coach. Sites include Olive Chapel AME Church, Mudd's Grove, Meacham Park, Turner School, and Quinette Cemetery.
ARTICLE BY LUCY ROGERS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY D'ANNE WEBER
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O UR TOWN | ARTS + C ULT U RE
Unfortunately, Quinette Cemetery is one of the places where much of Kirkwood's Black history is lost. "Quinette Cemetery is part of the Kirkwood City Parks Department," said Kylie Christanell, Kirkwood Parks and Recreation Volunteer Coordinator. "There is minimal history about the cemetery. It's incredibly difficult to write a nomination narrative for the National Registry. But the limited information I've uncovered about the great people buried there is fascinating." While there is more information surrounding the incorporation of Meacham Park into the city of Kirkwood, Kylie pointed out that there is limited history about former Black communities throughout Kirkwood. A sculpture on the wall inside the Kirkwood Library depicts 11 locations, like Kentucky Town, which were considered Black communities. "I grew up in Kentucky Town," recalled Fonda. "These were wonderful places for people to live. They were beautiful communities. We want Black Heritage Celebration 2024 to authentically educate people about our experiences." On the day of the Celebration, Mudd's Grove will be dedicated to immersive experiences. "We'll have exhibits, rooms for advocacy organizations, sign-ups, and ways to get involved. Most importantly, the exhibits will explain how we can move forward." Fonda and the Black Heritage Celebration committee are intentional about extending Kirkwood's Black history education beyond the day of this event. Committee members CONTINUED >
"Black history is our history," said Fonda. "We want everyone to understand that we need each other. We are part of each other." FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KWO O D
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Black Heritage Celebration 2024, Saturday, February 17, at Mudd's Grove from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. The free event includes Kirkwood's historic Olive Chapel AME Church, Mudd's Grove, Meacham Park, Turner School, and Quinette Cemetery, viewed from the narrated, luxury ADA motor coach.
are meeting with schools, students, and parents. "Black history is our history," said Fonda. "We want everyone to understand that we need each other. We are part of each other." "Although the Mudd's Grove library has a collection about Kirkwood's Black Heritage, the goal is to expand the archives," said Fonda. Black History Celebration 2024 is an open invitation for people to share their family history. "We want to schedule a date for people to bring their family photos to Mudd's Grove so we can scan and archive them in the Mudd's Grove library," said D'Anne. "We also want to hear their oral history, the stories of the people and places in the pictures. We will lose that history if we don't archive it." To reserve a free spot on the ADA motor coach tour, visit kirkwoodhistoricalsociety.com. On February 17, 2024, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Mudd's Grove will host celebration activities for people of all ages, fostering a greater understanding of Kirkwood's diverse history.
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FRIENDSHIP VILLAGE RECEIVES THE 2023 COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY AWARD
Commitment to Community ARTICLE BY LUCY ROGERS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
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I ’m s o p rou d t o b e a m e m b e r of t h e I n d e p e n d e n c e C e nt e r ’s B o a rd of D i re c t o rs . T h e h e l p we p rov i d e fo r a du lt s i s c r it ic a l , a n d t h e re a re m a ny s uc c e s s s t o r ie s of h ow t h e c e nt e r h a s a re a l i m p ac t o n p e o p le i n ou r c o m mu n it y. Friendship Village is well known for its commitment to the seniors living throughout its communities. But did you know Friendship Village is a beacon of philanthropy and local community involvement? The Kirkwood – Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to honor the staff of this dynamic organization with the 2023 Commitment to Community Award for the positive impact that its team has made in our community. One poignant example is Friendship Village's active participation in the National Day of Service at the Enterprise Center on 9/11 in 2023. More than a dozen Friendship Village leadership team members, alongside a thousand volunteers, transformed a day historically marked by tragedy into an opportunity for service. The volunteers packed over 400,000 meals for the St. Louis Area Foodbank, turning a somber anniversary into a day of hope and giving. Friendship Village's dedication to fostering skills and opportunities is evident in its long-standing community-based vocational instruction program. Coordinated through the Special School District of St. Louis County, this initiative empowers high school graduates aged 18-21 to acquire valuable on-the-job skills. Friendship Village often becomes a permanent workplace for many program graduates. Friendship Village's team philanthropic spirit extends to its Employee Council, which has tirelessly raised funds for organizations such as St. Baldrick's and the American Cancer Society and provided essential items for charities like Our Lady's Inn Maternity Home and the St. Patrick Center. The executive team's collaboration with Leading Age Missouri highlights its commitment to senior citizens' rights and protections. Key team members actively participate in advocacy efforts, demonstrating a dedication to promoting positive legislative change. Annual fundraisers for the Alzheimer's Association exemplify Friendship
Village's commitment to health-related causes, with the Sunset Hills campus donating over $1,700 in 2023. Their involvement in Wreaths Across America at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery and support for the Ronald McDonald House further underscores their commitment to honoring veterans and assisting families in times of need. The community's engagement extends beyond traditional philanthropy, with Friendship Village residents actively participating in events such as the Backpack Project for the St. Louis Family Court Foster Care Division. These initiatives, along with support for scouting for food drives and pediatric hospitals, emphasize the breadth of Friendship Village's impact on the community. The Titan 100 in St. Louis recognized Executive Directors Terry Walsh and Carmen Fronczak, which is a testament to the exemplary leadership at Friendship Village. This program, recognizing top CEOs and C-level executives, provides a platform for these leaders to showcase their influence and vision in business and the community. Carmen Fronczak's upcoming performance on “Dancing with the St. Louis Stars” is a shining example of leadership transcending traditional boundaries. Her dedication to raising funds for the Independence Center, a community-based rehabilitation program for adults with severe mental illnesses, highlights the team's commitment to holistic well-being. In Carmen's words, "I'm so proud to be a member of the Independence Center's Board of Directors. The help we provide for adults is critical, and there are many success stories of how the center has a real impact on people in our community." Friendship Village's multifaceted approach to philanthropy and community engagement serves as an inspiration, showcasing the transformative power of collective compassion and action.
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Canadian Rocky Mountains
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BUSINESSPERSON
OF THE YEAR Beth Fitzgerald, President - Magic House, Businessperson of the Year ARTICLE BY LUCY ROGERS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L I FE + CU LT U RE
The Magic House Gala Co-Chairs
Beth Fitzgerald
Beth Fitzgerald, President of the Magic House, is the recipient of the Kirkwood - Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce's 2023 Businessperson of the Year for her excellence in understanding how children learn through play, combined with her exceptional leadership, vision and innovation. Beth has made a profound impact on the world of children's museums. As President of The Magic House since its opening in 1979, Beth guided the museum's evolution from a modest local not-for-profit organization in a 5,500 square-foot Victorian house in Kirkwood to a national destination, now ten times that size, welcoming over 500,000 visitors annually. Under her visionary leadership, The Magic House expanded further in 2019 by opening a satellite location on Delmar Boulevard in St. Louis, broadening the museum's influence and mission.
Beth's impact goes beyond the borders of St. Louis, as she directs The Magic House's national traveling exhibit program, influencing children's museums across the country and continuing to shape the lives of countless young minds. That's more than good business, that's practically magic.
FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KWO O D
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Distinguished COMMUNITY SERVICE GREENTREE COMMUNITY CHURCH RECEIVES KIRKWOOD DES PERES AREA CHAMBER 2023 DISTINGUISHED COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
ARTICLE BY IRIS COLYER PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREENTREE COMMUNITY CHURCH
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I NSP IR E D BY | L I FE + C ULT U RE
I
n the heart of Kirkwood, Greentree Community Church is a testament to the power of love and service. Established in 1997 by a handful of families with a vision for a vibrant, gospel-driven church, Greentree has become a cornerstone of the Kirkwood-Des Peres community and is the recipient of the KirkwoodDes Peres Area Chamber of Commerce 2023 Distinguished Community Service Award. For the first 18 years, Greentree operated as a mobile church, gathering in North Kirkwood Middle School. That experience created a culture of serving outside brick walls with events like “20:28”, where members dedicate a day to serving the local
community through yard work, home repairs, and painting. Today, the church is located at 100 Kirkwood Place, providing space for various community activities, from support and recovery programs to music lessons, recitals, scout meetings, and more. Nancy Prott, a driving force behind Greentree’s outreach and mission work for over 15 years, has been instrumental in shaping the church’s dedication to serving others. The church collaborates with key partners, including the Kirkwood School District, Kirk Care, Moms of Meacham, and Oasis International, to provide ongoing care to those in need. Greentree’s impact extends to under-resourced families with initiatives
like Affordable Christmas, where families can purchase gifts for their children at reduced prices. The church’s annual Harvest Party exemplifies its commitment to joyful community engagement with a celebration filled with family activities that embody Greentree’s vision of loving Jesus and all people. Behind every visible act of outreach lies compassionate hearts empowered by faith. Through prayer, meals, counseling, and practical support, Greentree seeks to emulate the sacrificial love of Jesus. Greentree Community Church hopes that its actions speak volumes about the boundless love of God, inspiring others to follow the path of service and compassion.
FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KWO O D
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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KWO O D
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ARTICLE BY IRIS COLYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAREY CAMPBELL
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT HONOREE
Joseph Godi JOSEPH E. GODI RECEIVES THE 2023 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FROM THE KIRKWOOD - DES PERES AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Celebrate Joe Godi and all the 2023 honorees at the Kirkwood - Des Peres Area The Kirkwood-Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce proudly announces Joseph E. Godi as the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, recognizing his exceptional commitment and service to the community. A true patriarch and inspiration to his family, Joe's ethos of unity and service has shaped the Godi household. Greg Godi, Joe's son, reflects on their Brady Bunch family upbringing. "We were raised as one big family; all of us children are very proud of our father," said Greg. "His passion for servant leadership is something that he's passed on to all his kids. Dad always said, 'Get involved, pitch in, contribute.'"
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H OM E TOWN H E R O | L I FE + CU LT U RE
Chamber of Commerce Gala on Friday, March 1 at Andre's West in Fenton from 6:00 - 10:00 pm. More information can be found at kirkwoodesperes.com
Joe's illustrious 17-year tenure on the Kirkwood City Council stands as a testament to his tireless efforts in amplifying the voices of the community. Known for being an 'outdoor guy,' Joe's commitment to greenspace resulted in the acquisition of three Kirkwood parks—Emmenegger Park, Greentree Park, and Quarry Park—totaling over 250 acres for people to enjoy. His leadership was instrumental in advancing various projects, including Kirkwood Senior Citizen Housing, improvements to Meacham Park, and enhancements to Kirkwood's cultural and recreational landmarks. Joe's imprint on Kirkwood's historical legacy is evident through his 50-year involvement with the Kirkwood Historical Society, where he served as President, contributing significantly to preserving Mudd's Grove. His philanthropic endeavors extend to leadership roles in the Kirkwood Kiwanis Club, Lions Club, and various community committees, spanning over five decades. Beyond civic duties, Joe was committed to youth education as Scoutmaster of Troop 325 and PTA President at Robinson Elementary School. Joe ensured all fourth graders received a tree to plant in their yards and contributed to Kirkwood High School's fundraising and ecological efforts through plant and tree sales. "The Godi family is grateful to see our dad Joe honored for his work," said Greg. "And I can promise you that Dad will not slow down. He'll continue to give back to this great city and serve Kirkwood in the future. It's in his blood. It's his passion."
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BBQ Shrimp and Grits
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C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE
Chef Lydia Gwin and Chef Craig Basler of Dalie's Smokehouse Create BBQ Shrimp and Grits
Local Culinary Collaboration GWIN’S TINY KITCHEN
DIRECTIONS
Cheesy Cheddar Grits • 4 cups chicken broth • 1 garlic clove, minced or grated • 1 cup old-fashioned grits • 2 cups shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese • 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter • 2 Tablespoons heavy cream • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt • fresh ground pepper
Cheesy Cheddar Grits 1. Bring chicken broth, heavy cream, and minced garlic to a boil in a medium saucepan. Whisking broth quickly, slowly pour grits, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer grits according to package directions, whisking every few minutes until the grits have absorbed the stock. Whisk in butter until combined. Turn off heat and stir cheese into the grits in batches until completely melted. Season cheese with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
DALIE’S SMOKEHOUSE
Shrimp 1. Shake shrimp in bag with the seasoning until coated. Let sit for 15 minutes in the spice rub.
Shrimp • 2 pounds 16/20 shrimp, de-veined and shells removed • 2 Tablespoons Sweet Rub, brown sugar-based • 3 garlic cloves, minced • 6 Tablespoons of butter, divided • 1 cup of BBQ sauce (either Dalie’s Voodoo or Papa Joe’s Original) • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes • 1/4 cup diced green onions
2. In a saute pan, melt 3 Tablespoons butter. Add in garlic and shrimp. Saute 2 - 3 minutes on each side. Shrimp should resemble the letter C or O. 3. Remove shrimp, add the remaining butter and BBQ sauce. Cook until the butter is fully incorporated. Divide half the mixture and toss the shrimp. Use remaining half to drizzle over the top of the dish. 4. Plate with grits on the bottom of the bowl, top with BBQ shrimp, drizzling more sauce on top, then garnish with tomatoes and green onions.
"The perfect kick comes from Dalie's Smokehouse Voodoo Sauce or Papa Joe's Original BBQ Sauce." ARTICLE BY CHEF LYDIA GWIN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KWO O D
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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / KI R KWO O D
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Citizen
– Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year.
ARTICLE BY LUCY ROGERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAREY CAMPBELL
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M UST SE E | L I FE + C ULTU RE
of the Year
Scott Barthelmass is Kirkwood
Scott Barthelmass
Scott Barthelmass, President of Barthelmass Painting, is the Kirkwood – Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce 2023 Citizen of the Year. Scott's journey has been one of entrepreneurship and community integration, influenced by the values of generations before him. "Barthelmass Painting is a family business, but it's also located in the city where we live, and we want to add value," Scott said. "If the community succeeds, so does the business. I want people to have the opportunity to work with a company that's been around a long time." Beyond the brush strokes of paint, Scott and his family have a 100 year history of community service. Scott acknowledges his
family's commitment to Kirkwood: "My mom and dad, and the whole family always strive to improve the community." Barthelmass Painting is a family-owned business with a legacy dating back to when Scott's great-grandfather started the company in 1923. Scott reflects on this remarkable journey, emphasizing the significance of transitioning the company past the second generation. As the fourth-generation owner, Scott has confronted numerous challenges, including a battle with cancer, the global impact of COVID-19, and the ongoing hurdles of supply chain issues and labor shortages.
Despite these obstacles, there have been moments of triumph, with the company earning recognition from American Paint Contractors Top Jobs in 2018, 2019, and 2021. Reflecting on his early days as a young painter, Scott fondly remembers working alongside his father, who initially tried to dissuade him from joining the family business. "My dad had me paint the steel on the roof of the Howard Johnsons and then paint the outside of a house on Adams, along the creek where the mosquitoes were," laughed Scott. Scott wears multiple hats beyond owning the painting company, highlighting his commitment to public service. As the Assistant Chief at the Eureka Fire Protection District, CONTINUED >
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M AND DAD, A O M ND " MY THE I R V T E TO I S S Y M A WH P RO ALW OL VE E FA TH MILY EC OM MUNIT Y ."
he oversees a vast range of operations. In addition to his firefighting duties, Scott serves as a part-time park ranger for the St. Louis County Park Rangers, contributing to law enforcement and recreational programming in county parks. His role as a National Fire Academy Instructor, Emergency Management Institute Instructor, and member of the Missouri Task Force 1 emphasizes his commitment to education and disaster response on a national scale.
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M UST SE E | L I FE + C ULTU RE
Scott is involved with multiple local organizations. He is the Founder and Past President of the Missouri Law Enforcement Funeral Assistance Team, Executive Director of the Missouri Association of Fire Protection Districts, State Director of the Missouri Chapter of Firefighters Cancer Support Network, Mothers Against Drunk Drivers, the Missouri Firefighters Memorial Annual Service Operation Triage, and Treasurer of the Kirkwood Industrial Development Authority, among other roles. In his rare moments of respite from being a servant leader, Scott dedicates his time to volunteering at local events, such as managing logistics for the Greentree Festival. His commitment to causes like the Special Olympics, St. Baldricks, Super Plungers for Polar Plunges, and volunteering at his church, Kirkwood United Methodist, underscores his dedication to making a difference in the community. Scott is a pillar of the Kirkwood-Des Peres community, embodying the values of legacy, leadership, and community service. The recognition as the 2023 Citizen of the Year is not just an accolade for Scott; it celebrates a century-long Barthelmass family commitment to positively impacting people.
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The All-New Audi Exchange Kirkwood is Opening March 2024 We’re building a bigger, better Audi Exchange Kirkwood! Our new 35,000 square foot facility will include 18 service bays, state-of-the-art sales and service departments, a luxurious customer lounge, and room for even more inventory! All to give you an experience that exceeds your expectations. Stop in today for our Construction Sales Event and save on our entire inventory! Complimentary pick-up & delivery services available for both sales and service. Audi Exchange Kirkwood - Expect the Exceptional.
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