The Nine Network’s last surviving founder, civic leader and developer Raymond Wittcoff, passed away recently at his home in Phoenix. He was born in 1921 to Edward Wittcoff and Sadie Friedlob of St. Louis, and attended the former St. Louis Country Day School (now MICDS). He left his mark as a leader on numerous area businesses and institutions, including Downtown St. Louis Inc. and Barnes-Jewish Hospital.
The Saint Louis Fashion Fund Incubator on Washington Avenue has been stitching StL back into the fabric of the clothing design world for one year now! It marked the anniversary with a party and personal shopping event with its featured designers. Appropriately, the incubator is located in the heart of downtown’s historic former garment district.
Kudos to DiAnne Mueller, CEO of Saint Louis Crisis Nursery and 2017 recipient of the Missouri Foundation for Health’s Dr. Corinne Walentik Leadership in Health Award. Mueller has led the nonprofit for 23 years and is dedicated to preventing child abuse and helping vulnerable babies and families have access to health care. She also received $25,000 to support the nursery’s programs.
Tick, tock! St. Louisans and watch enthusiasts Justin Kraudel, Michael DiMartini and David Barnes are celebrating their launch of MONTA one year ago. The locally based retailer of men’s wristwatches so far features two models, including the Triumph (pictured above). The movements are made and encased in Switzerland, and the watches are available at montawatch.com.
the main events
Head to the Wool Studio Theater at the JCC Staenberg Family Complex Jan. 24 through Feb. 11 for The How and The Why, a thought-provoking play about family relationships and the difficult choices faced by women of every generation.
The Big Eyes, Big Minds International Children’s Film Festival of St. Louis returns to the Saint Louis Zoo Feb. 3, 17 and 24. It features award-winning films for, about and by kids. Fun craft activities follow the screenings.
If your New Year’s resolution is to make a difference in the community, join Operation Food Search for its Share the Love Rap ‘n Pack event at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 8. Help package nutritious foods for residents in need while you enjoy appetizers, drinks and music.
