Hats off to pediatric gastroenterologist Dr. David Perlmutter, recently named the first George and Carol Bauer Dean of the Washington University School of Medicine.
The deanship was established with a $5 million gift from the Bauers. Perlmutter is known for his research in alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic disorder that causes liver disease.

The Saint Louis Zoo has more than one reason to roar—it was named the nation’s best free attraction in a USA Today poll, and it ranked No. 1 in the newspaper’s Reader’s Choice survey of the best zoos. Sea Lion Sound was named best zoo exhibit, too! The 90-acre park is home to 600 species of animals, including cheetahs Bingwa and Jason and their eight cubs.

Young patients at Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital will benefit from a historic gift by the Saigh Foundation—a $1 million Care Beyond the Bedside Endowment to support recreation, coping skills and music therapy programs. It’s the first endowment Ranken Jordan has received in its 77-year history. The 60-bed hospital helps ill and injured children transition successfully back to their homes.

Cheers! Major Brands chairman and CEO Sue McCollum (center) recently teamed with seven local female execs to create a limited edition Maker’s Mark Private Select bourbon by choosing a special combination of oak barrel staves for aging. Sales proceeds will benefit four area nonprofits. Major Brands is one of the largest woman-owned and -operated companies in the St. Louis area.


the main events 

The Four Seasons is celebrating Global Wellness Day June 9 with sunrise yoga, breakfast bites and specially priced therapeutic spa experiences. Yoga instructor Debby Siegel will lead a class at 8 a.m. on the eighth-floor Sky Terrace.

Former St. Louisan and Webster U. grad Amy Spalding will be on hand at Left Bank Books June 16 to sign and discuss her new young adult novel, The Summer of Jordi Perez. Copies are available at the event or left-bank.com.

Head to The Duck Room at Blueberry Hill June 24 for a special 8 p.m. show with recording artist Griffin House, who has toured with John Mellencamp, The Cranberries and other well-known acts. His latest album, So On and So Forth, features tracks like “Easy Come Easy Go” and “Yesterday Lies.”