Local tech startup MathBRIX was one of just six companies from across the country chosen for the National School Boards Association’s annual Technology Innovation Showcase this spring. MathBRIX is a set of cloud-based visual games and activities that help kids develop math and analytical skills. Later this year, it will be featured in NSBA’s magazine and national technology leadership webinar.

Talk about a giant check! Ameren Illinois chairman and president Richard Mark (pictured at right) presented the Urban Legue of Metropolitan St. Louis with a $1 million donation at the nonprofit’s recent 100th anniversary gala. The funds will support Urban League Community Outreach Centers that provide food, clothing and other assistance for people in need.

A big congrats to SLUCare nephrologist and professor Dr. Krista Lentine, named the National Kidney Foundation’s 2018 Dr. Shaul Massry Distinguished Lecturer. She was recognized at the foundation’s annual spring clinical meeting in Austin, Texas. Lentine’s research has led to the development of new U.S. and international guidelines for living kidney donation.

If your kids are showing signs of a green thumb, consider signing them up for Saint Louis County Parks’ new Youth Master Gardener program at Queeny Park. Children ages 9 to 13 are introduced to horticulture and botany over a period of six weeks. The program’s summer session starts May 26.


the main events

For a sweet diversion, try La Patisserie Chouquette’s Queen of Hearts Afternoon Tea April 25. The Alice in Wonderland-themed party features a variety of delights for the palate. Make a reservation at simonefaure.com.

Have a landmark workout at the Gateway Arch Park Foundation’s Row the Mississippi fitness day May 5. There will be free Orangetheory classes beneath the Arch with stationary WaterRower machines and bodyweight exercises. Open to ages 16 and up; guardian needed for those under 18. Visit archpark.org/row for more info.

Enjoy more fitness opps downtown at Centene Charitable Foundation’s free Evening Boot Camp sessions at Kiener Plaza. The upbeat classes, led by Heath Norton of Title Boxing Club in Rock Hill, are held at 5:30 p.m. each Wednesday from May 2 through June 6. Visit archpark.org/bootcamp for more details.