Posts Tagged ‘holiday fun’

In honor of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday this coming Monday, UMSL and St. Louis Community College will each host MLK celebrations featuring noted guest speakers. Both events are free and open to the public.

Gilberto Pinela

On Sunday, January 17, the Flo Valley campus will welcome Hispanic entrepreneur and local civic leader Gilberto Pinela, whose television show “Ahora San Luis” has been airing in St. Louis since 2001. Pinela, who serves on the board of several area institutions, including United Way and the Missouri Historical Society, will speak on the theme “Realizing the Dream through Civic and Community Engagement.”

The event will also feature performances by the Olivette Missionary Baptist Church choir, Florissant Valley’s gospel choir, and dancer Aaron “A-One” Reed, as well as an art exhibit by Flo Valley students and an oratorical contest sponsored by North County Churches United for Racial Harmony & Justice. 3pm at the Fischer Theatre, 3400 Pershall Road, 63135.

Jabari Asim

Over at UMSL, on Monday, January 18, acclaimed author and journalist Jabari Asim will be the keynote speaker, headlining a morning of performing arts at the Touhill. Asim, who gained national attention for his 2007 book, The N Word: Who Can Say It, Who Shouldn’t and Why, is currently scholar-in-residence at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and editor of the NAACP’s magazine, The Crisis.

In addition to Asim, UMSL’s MLK celebration will also feature a dramatic performance depicting a community’s response to violence, directed by Adeniyi Coker, along with music by the Dickson Quartet, four talented sibling musicians from Oregon. 10am at the Touhill’s Anheuser-Busch Hall, 1 University Blvd, 63121.

A clever Christmas week creation by my neighbor kids, Ferguson 2006

Dear NOCO readers, I’ve always thought that Christmas is a great time to count your blessings from throughout the year. And this year I am so grateful to have all of you reading and enjoying this blog, and hopefully feeling just a little more positive about North County!

I’ll be back very soon with more in-depth NOCO features and interesting news bits. May you have a wonderfully Merry Christmas filled with delicious food, family fun and lots of gratitude for all the goodness around you!

Help kick off the first day of Kwanzaa at Afro World's family-friendly Kwanzaa celebration this Saturday in Normandy.

Like many people who grew up celebrating Christmas, Kwanzaa has always been sort of a mystery holiday to me. I knew that it’s an African-American event and that it was created relatively recently, but I was surprised to learn that this week-long holiday is actually a celebration of family values and personal integrity, and that it’s rooted in African traditions dating back thousands of years.

Created in 1966 by California professor/activist Dr. Maulana Karenga, Kwanzaa runs from December 26 through January 1 and its name is derived from the Swahili phrase for “first fruits.” During Kwanzaa, people of African descent are called together to build and reinforce the bonds of culture, community and family, guided by seven core principles known as the Nguzo Saba.

Gathering around a table decorated with seven symbolic items, including fruit to represent the harvest and a mat to represent tradition and history, Kwanzaa participants discuss and celebrate one core principle each day, gradually lighting seven candles to symbolize each one. The principles at the heart of the holiday are unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.

In other words, Kwanzaa challenges African-Americans to be the very best they can be, offering a thoughtful and productive framework for positive change and cultural unity. It can also be fun, especially at Afro World!

This Saturday, December 26, the Normandy boutique will host its annual family Kwanzaa celebration, featuring storytelling by Redina Medley and Greg Reed, poetry and music by David A.N. Jackson, photos by the symbolic kinara candle holder, face painting, and gifts of books and fruit for children. The event runs from 1-5pm and is free and open to the public. Why not stop by and learn more about this empowering cultural holiday?

Afro World is located at 7276 Natural Bridge, 63121. For more info, call (314) 389-5194.

With Christmas Eve less than a week away, chances are your holiday shopping will soon focus on what really matters: food! If you’re looking to enliven your Christmas menu or maybe give someone a special gourmet gift, here are 12 tasty ways to do just that with fresh, local delights from North County:

1) Kringles @ Helfer’s Pastries, 380 St. Ferdinand St, 63031, (314) 837-6050

If you’ve never had a kringle, or don’t even know what one is, get yourself to Helfer’s Pastries in Florissant ASAP! Inside this decadent Danish pastry you’ll find a heavenly filling of butterscotch, topped with either raspberries or pecans. It’s the perfect hostess treat for a holiday party. According to legend, kringles date to the 1800s and their oval shape is said to represent the eternal love of God. Aw. Unfortunately, not even God can help you score a kringle if you don’t act soon. Helfer’s is really hopping this time of year, and orders for Christmas Eve MUST be placed by Tuesday, 12/22.

2) Linzer cookies @ Cose Dolci, 100 S. Florissant, 63135, (314) 799-2157

It’s just an added bonus that Beth Thompson, owner of this amazing little Ferguson bakery, is one of the nicest people ever. But what really keeps Cose Dolci busy (especially in December) is the fact that its made-from-scratch, all-natural cookies are divine! Beth also makes fantastic cupcakes, sweet breads, scones, muffins and more, but her most popular item is the Linzer Cookie, a delicate, jam-filled indulgence that originated in Austria centuries ago. Buy just a bag or combine several types of baked goods for one of Cose Dolci’s delicious gift sets.

3) Peppermint Stick custard @ The Whistle Stop, 1 Carson Rd, 63135, (314) 521-1600

Tomorrow (Saturday) is the last day of the year to stock up on handmade gourmet frozen custard from The Whistle Stop in Ferguson. After that, you’ll have to wait until February! Take-home quarts are available for every flavor of Whistle Stop custard, but may I suggest three delicious seasonal varieties: Eggnog, Peppermint Stick and Pumpkin Pie. If you’re not too late, you may also be able to nab a holiday pie, a German Chocolate Cake or some super sweet Peppermint Fudge.

4) Exotic meats @ John’s Butcher Shoppe, 2608 Walton Rd, 63114, (314) 423-8066

So…you’ve got someone a little adventurous coming for Christmas dinner? Why not head to John’s Butcher Shoppe in Charlack? This old-timey store has been selling fine meats for 35 years, and it carries way more than just steak. Elk, wild boar, and Potosi, Missouri-raised ostrich and bison are also available for purchase here, in a variety of cuts. You can even get the friendly folks at John’s to wrap up a gift box for you.

5) Donuts @ Old Town Donuts, 510 New Florissant Rd, 63031, (314) 831-0907

Who could resist the fluffy perfection of an Old Town donut, especially as presents are being torn open on Christmas Day? This classic Florissant shop has been churning out some of the best donuts, muffins and cookies in the St. Louis area for 30 years, with workers making fresh batches day and night. Normally open 24 hours, Old Town Donuts will take a rare break for the holidays, closing at 4pm on Christmas Eve and not opening again until 4am on Saturday, December 26. So plan accordingly, or be prepared to put your chocolate long-john fix on hold!

6) Peking duck @ Chopstix Asian Kitchen, Plaza on the Boulevard, 8021 W. Florissant, 63136, (314) 383-6888

If you still laugh every time you think of the Chinese restaurant scene in A Christmas Story, just know that you too can enjoy a little Asian flair in your holiday festivities. Chopstix Asian Kitchen in Jennings (across from Target) specializes in traditional Chinese fare, including the most wonderful Peking duck, which is made fresh every day. The owners of this stylish little place are second-generation restaurateurs, so keep them in mind as you shop for holiday eats.

7) Nostalgic candy @ Remembering When Candies, 3232 Parker Rd, 63033, (314) 831-9436

Perhaps your idea of the perfect candy is a giant pair of wax lips or a handful of Pop Rocks. If so, be sure to sweeten up your holidays with a trip to Remembering When in Florissant. This wee shop sells a dizzying array of nostalgic candies, including brands from 1950s and earlier than you’d be hard pressed to find anywhere else.

8 ) Steak gift sets @ Paul’s Market, 1020 N. Elizabeth, 63135, (314) 524-3652

On the verge of celebrating its 50th year in business, Paul’s Market in Ferguson draws shoppers from all over the St. Louis area, primarily because of its mouth-watering filet mignon. Wrapped in bacon and sold for an incredible price, Paul’s filets are by far its best-selling item. And now through December 22, you can get ten four-ouncers – wrapped in a gift box – for just $29.95! Talk about a steak lover’s dream come true!

9) Chestnuts @ J. Goeke Produce, 449 rue St. Ferdinand, Florissant MO 63031; (314) 831-3140

I don’t know about you, but my early Christmas memories often involve nuts. As a kid, it was my duty (and my delight) to sit and crack my grandpa’s big bag of walnuts, Brazil nuts, and other shelled snacks. But what I never did was the one nut-related activity you’re supposed to do at Christmas – roast chestnuts over an open fire. Well, now I’ve got the fire. And thanks to Goeke’s in Florissant, I also have the fresh chestnuts. Let the roasting begin!

10) Gluten-free cookies @ Free Range Cookies, 425 S. Florissant, 63135, (314) 882-0163

It must really stink to have Celiac Disease during the holidays, not being able to tolerate wheat products. That’s probably why I keep seeing a steady stream of overjoyed kids walking out of Free Range Cookies in Ferguson. This small, sweet-smelling shop offers a full range of gluten-free baked goods, including breads,  pizza crusts and of course delicious cookies. My vegan friends rave about Free Range’s vegan scones, and I know the bakery is also popular with the dairy-free crowd. If you’re serving a special needs eater this Christmas, you just might be able to satisfy them here.

11) Sheet cakes @ Knodel’s Bakery, 6621 W. Florissant, 63136, (314) 385-2000

Since 1901, Knodel’s Bakery in Jennings has been whipping up some of the most scrumptious cakes in St. Louis. Unique photo cakes have become its recent specialty, allowing you to literally put your face in the frosting, but this old-fashioned bakery also offers classic sheet cakes, perfect for holiday entertaining. Order ASAP if you need something in time for Christmas – Knodel’s usually requires 5 days notice.

12) Conchas @ Las Palmas Mexican Bakery, 4018 Woodson Rd, 63134, (314) 954-6862

You’ll find a delicious world of south-of-the-border baked goods at this petite Mexican bakery in Woodson Terrace. Milk cakes, cookies, fruit pastries, and pan dulce sweet breads are sure to entice you, but may I recommend the conchas. They’re basically big buns with a sweet, colorful topping, and I imagine they’d be quite delightful when paired with a cup of coffee on Christmas Day. Las Palmas Mexican Bakery is also a great place to buy Rosca de Reyes, a sweet roll with a baby Jesus figurine hidden inside, normally served on the feast of the Epiphany, January 6th.

Happy holidays and happy eating! Hope you can shop NoCo for at least a portion of your seasonal needs.

Dear Santa, please let this eclectic school-turned-hotel in Portland, Oregon, serve as a model for creative revitalization in North County.

For nearly 30 years beginning in the 1970s, the historic neighborhoods of northeast Portland, Oregon, showed all the tell-tale signs of a community in decline. Housing values dropped, businesses got seedier, and the local grade school – a community landmark since 1915 – closed its doors and eventually was abandoned, causing many families to move away.

Northeast Portland became the part of town you’d avoid. There’s nothing left up there, people would say. But where most of Portland saw a fading, hopeless suburb wedged grimly between downtown and the airport, Mike and Brian McMenamin saw an opportunity. The owners of several popular brewpubs in the area (including the first one in the state of Oregon), the brothers came up with a creative plan to not only reinvigorate Northeast Portland but also to celebrate one of its finest assets: that beautiful, abandoned, circa 1915 grade school.

Whimsical paintings by local artists enliven nearly every wall at the Kennedy School in Portland.

Threatened with demolition, the elegant, Italian Renaissance-style “Kennedy School” had been saved by a coalition of local residents, former students and past PTA presidents when the McMenamins presented their plan for its revival. Following an exhaustive restoration incorporating the work of dozens of local artists and craftspeople, the brothers were determined to reinstate the school’s role as a busy, multi-use hub for the local community. They also wanted it to be a unique, memorable destination for visitors to Portland.

In their bold, way-outside-the-box vision, thirty five former classrooms would become boutique hotel suites, complete with original chalkboards and coat rooms. The old auditorium would be converted into an art house movie theater, served by the cafeteria-turned-restaurant next door. Several school rooms, including the former girls’ lavatory, would become cozy little pubs and cigar lounges serving McMenamin’s beer. Even the gymnasium would rise again, still as a classic locale for wedding receptions, but also as a lively spot for neighborhood basketball games, community meetings, blood drives, live concerts, and more.

Formerly the Kennedy School's cafeteria, the Courtyard Restaurant is now a hip Portland eatery that's jam-packed on weekends.

It was quite a diverse business model, and it worked. Because since the Kennedy School re-opened in 1997, the McMenamins have definitely exceeded their goals. Thousands of guests have stayed at their one-of-a-kind hotel, and even more have patronized its pubs, restaurants and theater. The reborn school has also provided an enormous economic and social boost for Northeast Portland, serving as a vibrant local hive where neighbors come together and where something fun is always on the calendar.

I tell you about the Kennedy School because it’s an amazing, magical place that I will never forget. Honestly, the McMenamins are two of my biggest heroes and I’m inspired by all of their fabulous brewpubs. I also tell you about the Kennedy School because I believe it’s exactly the type of brave, creative, lemons-to-lemonade project that North County desperately needs.

When you really start weighing our assets, we have no shortage of vintage buildings sitting empty or underutilized in NoCo, especially old schools. Off the top of my head, I can think of the former Masonic lodge in Ferguson, Storman-Stufflin School on Chambers, and St. Aloysius Church and School in Spanish Lake. Who knows how many more we’ll have as Catholic grade schools continue to close.

At the same time, North County also has a dire need for a decent live music venue – a hall with great character and good acoustics where maybe 200-300 people could enjoy an eclectic (and yes, even hip) mix of performers. If that same venue also housed an independent movie theater, I know I’m not the only North Countian who would be mighty pleased.

Sometimes a movie theater, sometimes a concert venue, the Kennedy School's converted auditorium is a community hot spot.

Now, I know what you’re saying…North County is no Portland! And I know that. But if the McMenamins’ successful concoction of beer, culture and community could turn around working-class Northeast Portland, who’s to say that it couldn’t work here as well, if even on a smaller scale? For once, why couldn’t North County be the place to embrace something truly special and progressive, something that would change minds and start drawing more folks northward?

We’ve got the buildings. We’ve got the artists. And we certainly have the people who love beer. Just imagine: North County as a destination.

That is my NoCo Christmas wish. Santa, I hope you’re reading…

(If you are reading, dear NOCO fan, don’t forget to vote in my new poll! It’s in the sidebar on the right.)

Judging from the emails I’ve gotten this week, many folks were both surprised and elated to read about so many great North County retailers. Hooray! Mission accomplished. So without further ado, here’s the second half of my 25 ways to shop NoCo for the holidays:

13) Generations Antique Mall, 729 rue St. Francois, 63031, (314) 831-6070

Fifty different dealers converge in this small but packed-to-the-gills antique mall in Old Town Florissant, where you can score everything from 1800s primitives to 1960s housewares. If you’re itching for a vintage-themed Christmas this year, Generations is a great place to find aluminum trees and 1950s holiday décor. It’s also the first of six stops on the North County Antique Trail, which includes antique shops in both Florissant and Ferguson. Just ask for a map at the desk. (Mike Finley’s 309 Antiques at 309 S. Florissant, which is on the trail and only open Thursday through Saturday 10-2, has been known to yield some very interesting finds. Mike has been in the antiques business for decades.)

14) You’re Fired, 1121 Howdershell, 63031, (314) 837-8250

The last time I visited You’re Fired, the paint-your-own-pottery studio in Hazelwood, I rolled out of there with a brutally ugly striped vase resembling a clown’s pant leg. My husband actually gasped when he saw it. So did the guy at Goodwill. But that’s ok. Because the thrill of You’re Fired is not just the destination; it’s also the journey. And what a fun, relaxing trip it is. The folks at this cozy, laid back shop will coach you through any project you choose, or simply let you create in peace. Just pay for the item you wish to paint (bowls, ornaments, serving dishes, etc) and they’ll provide all the supplies and the firing. And yes, they offer gift certificates…for one artist or groups of up to 30. Sounds like the perfect family holiday outing to me.

15) Anna Buechter, Golden Needle Design Studio, (314) 522-9830

At a time when so many things are mass produced, my friend and Ferguson neighbor Anna Buechter is an especially rare gem. An artist and designer who specializes in meticulously handcrafted pillows and lampshades, this whirlwind mother of four learned to sew with her grandmother in Russia (at age five!) and gradually became a master of detailed handwork. Now she uses her exquisite taste and Old World talent to make beautiful objects with a vintage flair, including her latest collection of altered art jewelry, which is absolutely gorgeous! If you’re looking for something extra special this holiday season – maybe a unique custom piece – give Anna a call.

16) El-Mel, 6185 N. US Hwy 67, 63034, (314) 741-2117

I love El-Mel so much that it was one of the first businesses I wrote about here on NOCO. An old-timey lawnmower shop and all-around farm and garden supply store, it’s my favorite place for buying wild bird seed and all manner of dog treats. It also offers an awesome selection of bird feeders, including many that are made in the USA and a handful that are produced from recycled materials. If you’ve got a wild bird lover on your holiday shopping list, you absolutely must visit El-Mel! Between now and Christmas Eve, all bird feeders (and wind chimes) are 10 percent off.

17) The Fantasy Shop, 8232 N Lindbergh, 63031, (314) 831-5211

Though not really my scene, I totally understand why millions of people are absolutely nutty about comic books and fantasy role-playing. The opportunity to step outside of yourself and inhabit other worlds is very enticing. And not only that – it’s fun! Since 1981, the owners of The Fantasy Shop have been celebrating that fact, providing St. Louisans with all the action figures, card decks, graphic novels and adventure games they could handle. Their Florissant location is the NoCo headquarters for all things fantasy related, offering a mind-numbing assortment of comics and other items that would make most boys swoon. Why not reward your favorite young super hero with a gift certificate?

18) Blitz & Bling, 18 Patterson Plaza, 63031, (314) 830-0111

Much to my family’s chagrin, I usually like to snazz up the holidays by wearing a classic gem sweater on Christmas Eve. (Here’s the gem sweater queen!) But this year, I plan to glam out in another way, nabbing some super sparkly Christmas jewelry from Blitz & Bling. Open just two months, this sweet little Florissant boutique is a girly girl’s dream come true. Stocked with a fanciful and affordable array of scarves, purses, sunglasses and glistening costume jewelry, the store easily delivers on its name, offering every accessory a gal needs to feel like a million bucks. Shop there for someone special or treat yourself!

19) Hood’s, 9009 Natural Bridge Rd, 63121, (314) 427-2415

Santa Claus probably doesn’t field many requests for four-foot concrete tiki heads, but if he did, he could find them at Hood’s in Bel-Ridge. As part of the home improvement store’s recent makeover, dozens of interesting lawn ornaments, fountains and other outdoor accoutrements have started pouring in, and many would make wonderful gifts. I keep eyeing the giant glazed pots, envisioning a gorgeous water garden, but the tikis are definitely tempting me too. If you’re shopping for someone who can’t wait for spring, Hood’s just might have some sunshine you can use.

20) Dooley’s Florist & Gifts, 690 rue St. Francois, 63031, (314) 837-7444

First and foremost, Dooley’s is a florist, providing the Florissant community with beautiful floral arrangements since 1966. But step inside this charming Old Town storefront and you’ll find plenty more to grab your interest: home decor items, Christmas ornaments, cider and dip mixes, crackling WoodWick candles, and even one-of-a-kind stone candles made by a local artist. Owner Patty Sosa, a second-generation florist, can also handle all of your holiday greenery needs, selling super fresh pine wreaths and swags that will make your house smell like a winter wonderland!

21) Arcades-N-More, 6 Patterson Plaza, 63031, (314) 838-1210

If I had an extra thousand dollars burning a hole in my pocket, this magical shop in Florissant is the first place I would go. Lined wall to wall with vintage pinball machines and 1980s video games, Arcades-N-More sets my heart a-flutter, reminding me of the countless quarters and Friday nights I spent playing Centipede and Ms. Pac-Man (and skee-ball!) at Aladdin’s Castle in Jamestown Mall. The graphics on these old machines, especially the pinballs, is just fantastic, and the old-fashioned simplicity of the games, especially in this hectic era, is a pure joy. The fact that shop owner Rich Dion is as nice as could be – well, that’s just a bonus. Check out this awesome place today!

22) Perales Land Maintenance, 9420 Lackland, 63114, (314) 429-4829

Technically, this hole-in-the-wall store in Overland is the headquarters of a landscaping company, but every time I drive by, I fall in love with its colorful, spinning yard ornaments. Made of metal and just so cute, the spinners are part of a wee selection of fountains, flags, statuary and other garden items available at Perales. Shop now and you can also get a Christmas tree and some fresh holiday greenery. Gift certificates for landscape design and installation are available too.

23) The Chappel House, 4560 Washington, 63033, (314) 838-6242

It was Jean Chappel’s dream to open an art gallery, and that’s how The Chappel House in Florissant came to be. Featuring the work of dozens of local artists, this gallery and gift shop housed in a circa-1877 former residence offers everything from paintings and quilts to sculpture and fine photography – including local landscape images shot by Jean’s multi-talented husband, Gurry. Some of the items are quite pricey (in the thousands), but there are plenty of great buys to be found, especially in the jewelry cases. Why not spoil your best gal pal with some lovely handmade earrings?

24) C.R. Frank Popcorn, 5401 N. Lindbergh, 63042, (314) 731-4500

Since 1925, this family-run business in Hazelwood has been serving up all the confections that make you think “fun.” Sno-cones, cotton candy and of course popcorn – C.R. Frank not only sells the equipment and supplies to help you make these delights (like Hawaiian ice shavers and retro theater-style popcorn makers for your home). The company also produces its own line of gourmet popcorn in four flavors – caramel, cheddar, butter and kettle – and it’s sold in gift-ready tins ranging from two to 6.5 gallons. All of the tins are hand-packed and made to order, so before you invest in stale big box popcorn that’s been sitting around who knows how long, take a trip to the festive showroom at C.R. Frank.

25) GaGa’s Vintage Furniture & Gifts / Raindrop Flowers, 258 S. Florissant, 63135, (314) 522-0035 /521-9100

The only thing better than finding a neat little hidden boutique is discovering that the boutique is actually two shops in one. That’s what you get in Ferguson, where GaGa’s Vintage Furniture and Gifts shares a cozy basement storefront with Raindrop Flowers. On the GaGa’s side, you’ll find an ever-changing medley of housewares, vintage treasures, jewelry, candles and numerous gift items for almost any occasion. (Owner Cathy Frankum is especially known for her monogrammed products.) On the Raindrop side, floral designer Sarah Fletcher whips up striking contemporary arrangements, live and silk – perfect for a Christmas centerpiece! She also sells home décor and handmade greeting cards, and can make you a bouquet that any holiday hostess would adore.

So…are you ready to shop yet? If we could all buy just a portion of our holiday gifts at these fine North County retailers, just imagine all the dollars that would stay right here in our own community!

Stay tuned for next week, when I offer ideas for NoCo holiday food… YUM!  And don’t forget: If you do shop my 25, please mention that you read about them on NOCO! Thank you!