the power of pets | Purina is launching a new initiative in renewable energy. Pet Power features a renewable electricity-producing walkway that harnesses the natural energy pets produce. Each step taken by pets and their owners produces around three joules of electricity. The walkway was created with smart flooring technology developed by Pavegen.
The Animal Protective Association of Missouri’s Brentwood location recently received a $80,000 grant to support its pet transport program. Every year, around five million pets enter shelters. The transportation program helps move animals from areas of overpopulation to those with a high demand for adoptable pets. “Transport shines the spotlight on true collaboration as we focus on finding homes for pets in need,” APA president and CEO Sarah Javier says.
life lessons
Since 1987, Friendship Village has partnered with the Special School District of St. Louis County to help students reach their greatest potential. More than 220 student workers have performed a number of duties at the senior living community’s Sunset Hills campus as part of the district’s Vocational Skills Program. “Not many senior living communities have a school bus pull up every morning,” president and CEO Terry Walsh says. “This is an exciting part of our day as we welcome our students in and integrate them into some of our work areas to provide meaningful experiences that help them grow and, to be honest, to help us grow as well.”
Melissa Gustafson-Hinds, music teacher at O’Fallon Township High School, has been selected as the winner of the Manilow Music Project Teacher Award in St. Louis. The contest was created by singer Barry Manilow as part of his Last, Last Tour. Gustafson-Hinds will be honored during Manilow’s concert at the Enterprise Center on July 25 and will receive a $10,000 grant from the Manilow Fund.
music that moves
Congrats to Joyce “Lady J” Huston! The local entertainer and musician has been selected as one of only 10 cohorts for the 2024 Musician Changemaker Accelerator Academy by Music to Life, a program designed to help musicians across the country make a transformational impact in their communities.
The Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza has received global recognition! The St. Louis landmark was honored with the Brand Champion Award at Sonesta’s first-ever Global Conference, highlighting the Chase’s dedication to exceptional guest relations and distinguishing it among more than 1,100 Sonesta hotels worldwide.
giving back
More than a decade ago, Katie Lee was able to open Katie’s Pizza thanks to a $45,000 Kickstarter campaign. To show her thanks, the Giveback Tuesday initiative was created. Recently, the program surpassed more than $450,000 for local charities. “This $450,000 is a thank you for the $45,000” Lee says. “The community gave to us, and we gave back tenfold. We’re grateful for the support and the opportunity to say thank you.”