Life + Culture

Lifetime Achievement Honoree Joseph Godi

Joseph E. Godi Receives the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Kirkwood - Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce Article by Iris Colyer | Photography by Carey Campbell 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...

Life + Culture

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 In 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 Kirkwood-Des Peres...

Life + Culture

Businessperson of the Year

Beth Fitzgerald, President - Magic House, Businessperson of the Year Article by Lucy Rogers | Photography by Provided 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...

Arts + Culture

Black History Celebration 2024

Saturday, February 17 at Mudd's Grove 9:00 - 4:00 pm. Article by Lucy Rogers | Photography by D'Anne Weber "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...

Life + Culture

Commitment to Community

Friendship Village receives the 2023 Commitment to Community Award Article by Lucy Rogers | Photography by Provided 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...

Life + Culture

Citizen of the Year

Scott Barthelmass is Kirkwood – Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year. Article by Lucy Rogers | Photography by Carey Campbell 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...

Food + Beverage

Local Culinary Collaboration

Chef Lydia Gwin and Chef Craig Basler of Dalie's Smokehouse Create BBQ Shrimp and Grits Article by Chef Lydia Gwin | Photography by Provided BBQ Shrimp and Grits 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 Directions: Bring chicken broth, heavy cream, and minced garlic to a...

Fitness

Home Work with Trisha

Expert advice about home gyms from Katie Mackenzie, GymGuyz Article by Trisha McConkey | Photography by Provided About a year ago, age and weight had caught up with me. I thought, "I cannot feel this uncomfortable this young." Working out was the last thing on my to-do list between the kids, work, and community commitments. But what I discovered, through working with a personal trainer, is that there IS time to focus on health. I started very slowly and had to psych myself up to say, "You are...

Arts + Culture

Transcendental Tessellations

Sugar Creek Gardens artist donates a stunning wreath for the Missouri Botanical Garden auction. Article by Lucy Rogers | Photography by Sugar Creek Gardens The Missouri Botanical Garden has invited Sugar Creek Gardens to once again participate as one of nine florists and garden shops to create and donate a wreath for the Missouri Botanical Garden Annual Holiday Wreath Display and Auction. This year, Sugar Creek Garden owners Ann and Abby Lapides decided to tap the shoulder of Michael...

Life + Culture

Mind, Body, Spirit, and Community.

The local community connection to health and wellness. Article by Nicole Nester | Photography by Beth Schrieber This is the time of year when people are talking about health and wellness. As a certified yoga instructor and a former boot camp leader, I recognize the benefits of cardio, weight training, and yoga. But I also know that the relationships we intentionally create are equally important in renewing our energy, strengthening the core of who we are, and stretching to become the best...