Lions and tigers and bears … right here! One of Saint Louis Zoo’s wildest new exhibits will open its doors Sept. 15, in part thanks to a major gift from the Centene Charitable Foundation. The $11 million Centene Grizzly Ridge habitat includes a freshwater pool, waterfall, stream, rocks, grass, sand and other features for bears to enjoy. Its first residents are Huckleberry and Finley, an orphaned grizzly brother and sister from Montana.
When Dance St. Louis’ 2017-2018 season gets under way at the end of September, a new artistic consultant will be on stage working with artists. Dancer and choreographer Terence Marling recently accepted the post, having formerly worked with companies in Chicago, Pittsburgh and Germany. The new season includes TAP Dynamics and a production of Chicago at the Fabulous Fox Theatre.
Nancy and Ken Kranzberg are set to receive the Landmarks Association of St. Louis’ H. Meade Summers Jr. Award for their efforts in preserving architectural gems. The couple has made countless gifts supporting the revitalization of area landmarks for use by cultural organizations. They’ll be fêted at an Oct. 27 event at the Boo Cat Club, a century-old architectural treasure itself!
A tip of the hat to the YWCA Metro St. Louis Leaders of Distinction for 2017! Several women are chosen each year for their efforts to improve life in St. Louis. This year’s honorees are: Diane Compardo, Moneta Group; Jovita Foster, Armstrong Teasdale; Tara Nealey, Polsinelli; Emily Pitts, Edward Jones; Mary Stillman, Hawthorn Leadership School for Girls; Leila Sadat, Washington University; Jennifer Labit, Cotton Babies; Karen Aroesty, Anti-Defamation League; Noemi Neidorff, philanthropist and volunteer; and Kennedi Ginger, a Whitfield School senior.
Congratulations are in order for Steve Mackin, newly named president of the area’s second-largest medical center, Mercy Hospital St. Louis.He takes the reins from Jeffrey Johnston, who is now president of Mercy’s eastern Missouri region. Mackin joined the health system in March as senior executive for business line development.