The Saint Louis Zoo’s Mary Ann Lee Conservation Carousel celebrated its 5 millionth rider, 3-year-old Addie Davis, who went for a spin with her dad, Dustin (pictured at top). They received an ‘appreciation package’ of merchandise from zoo president and CEO Jeffrey Bonner. The carousel opened in 2003 and has raised more than $7 million for wildlife conservation.
We all know St. Louis has heart, and two local designers, Kristin Slater and Neeti Kailas, are trying to show that in a unique way with their latest project, Heart of St. Louis. The two want to produce a visual record of local neighborhoods. The idea is to use their specially designed cameras to snap a picture of something that causes your heart rate to rise. The project is being funded through an Indiegogo campaign. Slater and Kailas hope to create an art installation with it, and eventually a real-time activity for people to explore area neighborhoods.
Hats off to Maxine Clark, recently honored as the Pillar in the Community for 2017 by the Clayton Chamber of Commerce. She received the award at a luncheon at The Ritz-Carlton. Clark is the founder and former ‘chief executive bear’ of Build-A-Bear Workshop and is well-known for her philanthropy in education, entrepreneurship and social work.
The Missouri Children’s Trust Fund has a new local face on its board of directors. Michael Howard, CEO of YouthBridge Community Foundation, was named to a three-year term by Gov. Eric Greitens. The Trust Fund supports programs to help prevent child abuse and neglect.
the main events
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis (New Cathedral) welcomes the Westminster College Choir at 8 p.m. Jan. 11. The touring ensemble performs music from the Renaissance period to today.
Enjoy lots of freezing fun at The Loop’s annual Ice Carnival Jan. 13 & 14. Activities include the Frozen Buns Run, ice slides, a Ferris wheel, ice carving demonstrations, human snow ball races and more! Full schedule at visittheloop.com.
J.K. Rowling fans will want to get in costume for the Harry Potter Yule Ball, held at 7 p.m. Jan. 19 at Orlando’s Catering and Banquets on Hoffmeister Ave.