Start your engines! Gateway Motorsports Park owner and president Curtis Francois accepted the Innovator Award at Explore St. Louis’ Hospitality Heroes celebration at America’s Center. Francois took over the 340-acre raceway in 2012 and has transformed it into a world-class attraction with Verizon IndyCar Series, NASCAR and NHRA events.
The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis has announced a $1 million campaign to fund an endowment in honor of artistic director Steven Woolf, who will retire next year after more than 30 years with the theater company. The funds will help The Rep hire talented directors, set designers and actors for future seasons. The Berges Family Foundation is chipping in $350,000 and will match gifts up to that amount.
Congratulations are in order for five area leaders who received Crystal Wagon Awards from SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Foundation. The awards are given each year to innovators who champion children’s issues. The 2018 honorees are state legislators Sen. Jeanie Riddle and Rep. Diane Franklin; SLUCare physician Dr. Robert Wilmott; sportscaster Dan Dierdorf; and SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital-Centralia president Damon Harbison.
Central West End resident Antony John has penned a new novel, Mascot, the story of a young St. Louis baseball player and survivor of a car accident, who has lost his dad and must face life in a wheelchair. The author spoke and signed copies at a launch party at Left Bank Books. He’s known for his previous novel Five Flavors of Dumb and the Elemental fantasy trilogy. Available at Left Bank Books.
the main events
Help support the Endangered Wolf Center’s conservation programs at Wolf Fest Oct. 20. The event will feature several ambassador animals, including a cougar, porcupine, kangaroo and raven. Enjoy live music, food trucks, artist demonstrations, rock climbing, kids’ activities and more.
Support breast cancer patients at The Ritz-Carlton’s Pink Ribbon Teas Oct. 20 and 27. These special parties include pretty-in-pink finger sandwiches, sweet treats and more. Proceeds support Gateway to Hope’s services for those living with breast cancer.
Mark your calendar for the annual Muddy River Arts Show and Sale Oct. 26 and 27 at the Ethical Society of St. Louis. The event showcases the work of local artists and craftspeople. An opening reception will be held the evening of Oct. 26.
