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NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM18 I BuSINESS pROfIlES I JANuARY 23, 2013MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

If a loved one needs assistance with some daily activities to remain independent in his or her home, place your trust in Martha’s Hands.

Martha’s Hands Home Health is on a mission to serve with compassion. Martha’s Hands provides quality, compassionate, private duty home health care.

Assistance that Martha’s Hands can provide includes bathing, grooming, dressing, meal preparation/cleanup, medication setup and reminders, light housekeeping, laundry, errand running, mental stimulation, companionship and spiritual support.

Eileen and John Hedrick founded Martha’s Hands more than 30 years ago. While a nursing student, Eileen was taught compassionate care by the Sisters of Mercy emphasizing total wellness. Because she wanted to maintain those high standards, Eileen founded Martha’s Hands.

Since its founding in 1997, Martha’s Hands has become one of the most

respected private duty agencies in the area. With it’s unique care model, Martha’s Hands has provided over two million hours of service.

Martha’s Hands continues to strive for high standards and is actively involved with the National Private Duty Association and the Missouri Alliance for Home Care.

Martha’s Hands also supports the local community through volunteering and supporting the Alzheimer’s Association, Memory Care Home Solutions and the Greater St. Charles Chamber of Commerce.

So if a loved one ever needs guidance through the maze of elder care issues, they can place their trust in Martha’s Hands.

Martha’s Hands Home Health5650 Mexico Road, Suite 12

St. Peters(636) 447-9393

www.marthashands.com

With more than 146 years of successful operation, Commerce Bank offers financial strength and stability. Attesting to this, Commerce Bancshares, Inc., was ranked No. 9 on Forbes’ (12/18/2012) list of America’s Best Banks for 2012. Commerce is also rated No. 4 on Bank Director magazine’s 2012 Top 150 Bank Performance Scorecard.Commerce operates as a super-

community bank – large enough to provide a wide range of financial products and services and yet deliver them like a community bank with personal service.Offering a full range of financial

products, including business and personal banking, wealth management, financial planning and investment services, Commerce is able to provide financial solutions to meet the specific needs of each of its customers. As a customer-driven company,

Commerce Bank goes beyond offering financial advice and services to consumers. According to Kevin Bray, senior vice president and Group Manager, St. Charles Region, “Commerce employees share a strong commitment to volunteerism and support countless organizations and

initiatives in an effort to give back to the community. In fact, the St. Charles County management team serves on the Boards of 14 not-for-profit organizations in the community.”Commerce Bank is a subsidiary

of Commerce Bancshares, Inc., a $20.9 billion regional bank holding company. For more than 146 years, Commerce Bank has been meeting the financial services needs of individuals and business throughout the Midwest region.

Commerce Bank435 Mid Rivers Mall Drive, St. Peters

6271 Mid Rivers Mall Drive, St. Charles1101 First Capitol Drive, St. Charles

2700 S. St. Peters Parkway, St. Charles101 E. Elm Street, O’Fallon2913 Highway K, O’Fallon

1994 Wentzville Parkway, Wentzville(314) 746-8700

www.commercebank.com

Dr. Byron Santos is an experienced ophthalmologist specializing in plastic and reconstructive surgery and the treatment of glaucoma, specialties for which he underwent training at the O’Donnell Eye Institute in St. Louis. He sees patients also for general ophthalmology needs, including cataract surgery.Dr. Santos has been practicing

ophthalmology in St. Louis for more than 30 years and recently joined Ophthalmology Consultants Ltd., a team of six ophthalmologists, an optometrist and dedicated staff committed to providing patients with the best possible medical treatment. In business since 2001, Ophthalmology Consultants Ltd. has locations at Mercy St. Louis in Creve Coeur and the Eye and Surgery Center in Des Peres. Dr. Santos’ knowledge, dedication

and patient-oriented approach have gained him the trust and respect of his colleagues.“I have the confidence of primary care

and other ophthalmologists in St. Louis who routinely refer their patients to me for treatment,” he said.

Conditions or symptoms that should prompt someone to contact Dr. Santos include eyelid tumors; eyelids that are very droopy, heavy or interfering with normal activities; lower eyelids that are rolled outward or inward; eye spasms; or watery eyes.“I treat a lot of people for tear drainage

obstruction, which most of the time can be treated with medication but sometimes requires surgery,” he said. Dr. Santos is a member of the

American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. Since 1998, he has been director of the Glaucoma Clinic at the O’Donnell Eye Institute in St. Louis.

Byron Santos, M.D.Ophthalmology Consultants, Ltd.

12990 Manchester Road • Des Peres(314) 909-0633

621 S. New Ballas Road, Suite 5006 Creve Coeur

(314) 432-5478www.ocstl.com

Specializing in basement finishing, Richbuilt Basements has been serving homeowners in the St. Charles area and surrounding communities since its establishment in 1989. Before launching the business, Rich Kempa, owner and founder of Richbuilt Basements, worked for more than 16 years as a designer and draftsman at consulting engineering firms. Today, Kempa operates his business from a home-based office.

Richbuilt Basements specializes in complete basement remodeling. Originally, Kempa handled projects from start to finish by himself, but over the years, his business has grown substantially.

“Now, with multiple crews and the same employees for more than 10 years, we work as a team to complete projects in a timely manner,” Kempa said. “Our goal is simple: to achieve customer satisfaction.”

To reach that goal, Kempa said, he

and his team make sure to keep the lines of communication open at all t imes, provide customers with straightforward answers to all of their questions, show respect for each customer ’s home and property, emphasize cleanliness and deliver worry-free completion of every project.

To date, Richbuilt Basements has completed more than 160 basements.

“We know how to get the job done right the first time in a timely manor and at the right price,” Kempa said. “We take care of everything – from framing to electrical, from plumbing to ductwork, from floor to ceiling, from theaters to family rooms, from painting to pantries and everything in between.”

Richbuilt BasementsO’Fallon

(636) 978-3479 or (314) 713-1388

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM I buSINESS pROfIlES I 19JANuARY 23, 2013MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

Living Word Christian School has been in operation for 32 years and is the only pre-school through 12th grade non-denominational school in St. Charles County.

The school’s mission is to assist Chris-tian parents in equipping students with a Christ-centered education, empower-ing them to impact the world for the glory of God.

“Christian education is about educat-ing the whole child – body, mind and spirit,” said Living Word Director of Institutional Advancement Nancy K. Benes. “Having had nearly 30 years ex-perience as a classroom teacher, princi-pal, and development director, one gets to see the many different aspects of edu-cation. Keeping the focus on relation-ships helps the school achieve its goal of helping young people to impact their community. We have students from four different counties and nearly 100 differ-ent churches.”

Living Word Christian School offers a tuition rate that is affordable to most

families. The school provides academic excellence, as evidenced by the fact that its students’ ACT scores average four points above the national average – and that is with 95 percent of students tak-ing the ACT exam. In addition, students are offered an abundance of co-curricu-lar activities, including numerous pro-grams in the arts and athletics.

The faculty and staff of Living Word are dedicated and caring, devoted to helping students achieve their God-giv-en potential.

“Our goal is to be the premier Chris-tian school in St. Charles County,” Benes said. “We want to acquire prop-erty to build an elementary campus near our middle school/high school campus. We want to continue to impact our community through volunteerism and service.”

Living Word Christian School1145 Tom Ginnever Ave. • O’Fallon

(636) 978-1680Mon.-Fri., 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

www.lwcs.us

Jaime Grosvenor, owner of Molly Maid of St. Charles County, has high expectations for the services they pro-vide. “The instant you walk in your home, you’ll know we were there” is the company slogan because the experi-ence of coming home to a clean fresh house is just invigorating. “We want our customers to feel good when they walk in the door and have more free time to enjoy,” explains Jaime.

Molly Maid was voted Best Value by “Good Housekeeping” magazine and gives every customer’s home “The Pink Glove Treatment.” That means that Jai-me or her manager comes to a potential customer’s home and discusses their unique cleaning needs and expectations to develop a written “Pink Glove Treat-ment” plan.

“Each person’s expectations are dif-ferent and not every cleaning company bothers to ask about personal expecta-tions,” says Jaime. “We don’t require contracts from our customers and know we have to earn their continued busi-

ness every time we walk in the door. How can I guarantee satisfaction if I don’t really listen to how a customer wants things done?”

Molly Maid assures that their teams will treat each home with the utmost care and respect. Customers can expect a team of two uniformed, bonded and insured cleaners to arrive with all of the necessary supplies and equipment. They have reliable transportation in the familiar blue cars with distinctive pink Molly Maid logos and professional uni-forms.

“Our customers often find that we of-fer more reliability and peace of mind than they’ve ever experienced from a maid service,” Jaime said. If you want to make coming home feel great again, contact Molly Maid today.

Molly Maid of St. Charles County

(636) 939-Maid (6243)www.mollymaid.com

Gina Kinion, owner of Advance Beauty College in Wentzville, loves helping people achieve the dream of becoming a cosmetologist. Having attended beauty college herself, taking classes at night and graduating the same year she finished high school, she knows how rewarding a career in cos-metology can be.

The mission of Advance Beauty Col-lege is to provide a quality education that will prepare students to succeed in cosmetology. Through innovative pro-grams focusing on hair, nails, facials and make-up, students are expertly pre-pared to pass the Missouri State Board of Cosmetology licensing exam and find work as professional cosmetolo-gists. Additionally, Advance Beauty College is the only school in the St. Louis area teaching a business devel-opment course that provides even more customer service and retail training than the state requires.

To become a licensed cosmetologist in Missouri, a student must attend 1,500 hours of classes at a cosmetology college and pass the state board exam,

which consists of practical and written tests. Advance Beauty College offers a full-time, 35-hour week with classroom training, work on mannequins, realistic practice in the student styling salon and practical skills testing. Students can complete the program in 10-12 months.

Advance Beauty College is licensed by the State Board of Cosmetology and accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sci-ences. Financial aid is available to qualified students.

With classes at Advance Beauty Col-lege beginning every four weeks, there is no need to wait to get started on an exciting and rewarding career in cosmetology!

Advance Beauty College982 Wentzville Pkwy. • Wentzville

(636) 332-0077Tues., 12-3:30 p.m.;

Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

www.advancebeautywentzville.com

The Crown Jewels Etc. is a very high-end consignment shop that gives customers the option of consigning, trading, buying or selling designer and luxury items.Sharon and Butch Dowdy opened The

Crown Jewels Etc. in April 2010. After the loss of her job, Sharon decided to use the knowledge she had gained working in the retail jewelry business – a field she loved – to launch a new career. Butch worked for many years in management in the automobile industry.The Crown Jewels Etc. has a strong

“wow” factor, offering a variety of pre-owned valuables for far less than their original price. There are designer handbags by Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Coach, Michael Kors and others; Manolo Blahnik and Jimmy Choo shoes; luxury-brand watches; fine jewelry and gemstones; furs and leather goods; quality crystal, including Waterford; Longaberger baskets; Lenox collectibles and much more. To date, the shop has sold 60 Rolex watches.

The Crown Jewels Etc. is not a traditional consignment store.“We actually guarantee people a certain

agreed upon amount,” she said. “When someone brings their merchandise in, we inventory it. We agree upon the amount, and that amount is guaranteed to them, regardless of what it sells for. There is no hard-fast 60/40 split or anything like that.”The store also accepts trades and pays

cash for gold and silver, jewelry and luxury-brand watches.After nearly three years in business,

Sharon and Butch are succeeding at doing what Sharon said they set out to do – “to be part of enabling individuals to own items they had only dreamed about.”

The Crown Jewels Etc.234 Fort Zumwalt Square • O’Fallon

(636) 294-6612Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

www.thecrownjewelsetc.com

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NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM24 I BuSINESS pROfIlES I JANuARY 23, 2013MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

When President/Owner Jeff Minnis is not programming, he is running Jeff Computers, the leading source for all computer solutions.

“Since we are locally owned and operated, we offer faster and better quality service,” Minnis said. “We can fix almost any computer problem, and we also custom build desktop and laptop computers.”

Jeff Computers is a worldwide solution for information technology needs, offering laptop and computer repair, both new and refurbished desk and laptops, Clear super fast 4G wireless Internet, Cricket android phones and Cricket basic unlimited phones. Jeff Computers also recently released an easy backup program to help users keep their data safe.

Jeff Computers’ innovative services also include the sale and installation of the brand new ultimate connection – Clear Internet – the first network built for today’s on-the-move lifestyle. It offers speeds four times faster than 3G and is available in virtually every corner of St. louis. Clear is designed with the Internet in mind and goes

places Wi-Fi cannot. It delivers an Internet connection anywhere – at home or on the road.

Minnis also is the creator of the popular StudyX, the easy and fun software program used by educators and students alike to help students focus and study for tests.

Minnis’ computer knowledge and personalized computer services allows Jeff Computers to fix any problem with a laptop or desktop as well as acquire any new parts.

“We are one of the few companies that can solve all of our customers’ needs, and our computer website service offers quick repairs online,” Minnis said.

Jef f Computers ’ t ra ined and experienced technicians guarantee both quality and reliability for the highest quality of service around.

Jeff Computers14366 Manchester Road • Manchester

(636) 256-7901www.jeffcomputers.com

Design On A Dime is a unique home décor consignment shop in St. Peters featuring a constantly changing mix of new and gently used items.

“We’re not your typical consignment shop. We also feature one-of-a-kind, custom painted furniture,” said Carrie Keipp, Design On A Dime owner and manager.

Carrie’s business is truly a family operation that utilizes the collective talents of three generations of family members.

“I’ve always wanted to work with my mom, so when she retired, it was the perfect time,” she said. “She’s very talented with painting and décor and helps with the refurbishing of items. The shop is a real family enterprise, as both of my parents, my two daughters and son help out.”

Carrie’s parents search for items to refurbish, her father fixes them, her parents paint them, and then they are placed on the floor for sale. The shop’s specialty is shabby chic, and the

inventory is ever changing. “We love to decorate and change our

decor often,” Carrie said.Items accepted on consignment are

kept for only 90 days, and every 30 days, prices are reduced on items that have not yet sold. That process ensures good prices and keeps the store looking fresh and stocked with new and interesting pieces.

“We receive new furniture and decor daily so we like to keep things moving,” Carrie said. “Our aim is to provide beautiful home décor at reasonable prices, make new friends and have fun with our family.”

Design On A Dime4117 Mexico Road • St. Peters

(636) 441-1299Tues., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.;

Wed.-Sat.,10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 12-4 p.m.Consignments by appointment

www.designonadimeconsign.com

Design On A Dime

Senior TLC cares for seniors like they are family.“Our mission is to provide the finest

of care giving to our clients – the kind of care we’d want for our own parents,” said Anne Abbenhaus, who with Eric Peters is a co-owner of Senior TLC.The nonmedical, in-home care giving

company in Chesterfield is designed to provide area seniors with stimulating and entertaining activities to improve their quality of life.“We saw a great need for caregivers

who are able to engage seniors in order to keep them mentally stimulated and improve the quality of their lives at home,” Peters said.Senior TLC carefully selects each

caregiver, requiring each employee to have a college education or equivalent experience along with a compassionate, outgoing personality.“Their No. 1 priority must be

actively improving our clients’ lives,” Abbenhaus said.When pairing a senior with a caregiver,

Senior TLC takes into consideration the interests of its clients.“We have caregivers who love

gardening, helping with jigsaw puzzles, playing cards, discussing books and going on outings to movies, and parks and museums,” Peters explained.Caregivers can take seniors to the

movies or the mall, or visit with them at home, playing card games or doing puzzles. They can help with errands and transportation, provide shopping assistance or assist with doctor appointments. In addition, Senior TLC can provide Alzheimer’s and dementia care, hospice support and respite care.Senior TLC offers a no cost, no

obligation assessment to review individual needs.“We create a customized care plan

with a goal of assisted independence in your home,” Abbenhaus said.

Senior TLC14913 Royalbrook Drive • Chesterfield

(636) 552-9363Administrative hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Services available 24/7

Cappuccino’s Restaurant is a full-service restaurant serving home-style, full-plate favorites for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

“We’re a family-owned business, and we’re open all day,” said Wendy Meyerson, who opened Cappuccino’s in 2006 and expanded her operation when she moved it to its current location.

Cappuccino’s serves its full menu all day, so guests can stop in for breakfast in the evening or order a burger at 7 a.m.

“We’re a restaurant with great coffee,” Chef Alisha Hays said. “You can get a cold beer or a grande mocha with your meal.”

Cappuccino’s’ meals are classic, made-from-scratch creations with a southern flair. From gravies to sauces to spice blends, everything is made to order, and fresh ingredients are procured from local businesses.

“We use a local, family-owned bakery for our bread and local farmers for our produce,” Hays explained.

Breakfast includes classic selections plus three styles of Eggs Benedict and eight omelet options, including those

made with Egg Beaters and egg white alternatives.

Down-home entrees such as chicken and dumplings and lasagna vie for attention with sandwiches, like the shrimp poor boy, the Reuben and a selection of fresh – never frozen – 100 percent, half-pound Angus beef burgers that are hand-pattied, seasoned with Cappuccino’s private spice blend and grilled to order.

Appetizers and desserts satisfy lighter appetites. Pair the perogies with a glass of wine or an imported, domestic or craft beer, or grab a steaming cup of Joe and a decadent dessert from the pastry case.

Morning, noon or night, whatever guests are craving, Cappuccino’s is cooking!

Cappuccino’s Restaurant1365 Hwy. K • O’Fallon

(636) 980-2326Mon.-Fri., 6 a.m.-9 p.m.;

Sat., 7 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 7 a.m.-3 p.m.

www.cappuccinosrestaurant.net

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM I buSINESS pROfIlES I 25JANuARY 23, 2013MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

Tara S. Dickherber, LPC, has worked in the field of mental health for more than 15 years in capacities from in-patient psych to private practice. Her passion lies in her private practice, now located in St. Charles.Dickherber’s specialty is treating

survivors of sexual violence and traumatic events.She was the first in St. Charles and

St. Louis counties to be certified in Rapid Resolution Therapy®, which took her from being a counselor to a transformative healer. She served also as executive director of the Institute for Survivors of Sexual Violence®.“RRT is a powerful but gentle way

to get the mind to make shifts quickly because we are working with the part of the mind that creates emotional responses,” Dickherber said. “Through RRT, we are simply communicating in ways that the emotional part of the mind learns and understands things. That part of your mind tends to respond better to imagery, sensory experiences

and certain ways of using language. “I show my clients how to influence

that part of their mind so it is working in a way that is much more beneficial for them, and in doing so, it clears the negative effect of any past event that’s been getting in the way of them being at peace. In the 5-plus years that I have been exclusively utilizing RRT, I have been very successful with clearing many kinds of trauma for war veterans, survivors of sexual violence, childhood abuse, and so forth.” Dickherber said she always has

appointments available for those seeking to improve their emotional health.

Tara S. Dickherber, LPCTrauma Recovery of St. Charles

1360 S. 5th Street, Suite 394St. Charles

(573) 754-0348www.mylifecoachtara.com

Trauma Recoveryof St. Charles

Nine and a half years ago, Sarah Cor-rigan and her mother, Mary Kay, felt there was a real demand in the commu-nity for a unique decor, gift and floral boutique. They soon joined forces to start The White Hare, offering distinct home accessories, gifts and an exten-sive, top-notch floral selection.

The store’s extremely popular in-home accessorizing service caters to the personal desires of the client to help with a new space or simply add finish-ing touches to an existing one.

“We come to your home, talk to you about what areas you would like to work on and then we take pictures and measurements,” Sarah Corrigan said. “We then schedule another day when we return with a selection of items spe-cifically for your space. It’s that easy.”

In addition, the store carries the best quality floral and merchandise avail-able while maintaining a good price for its loyal and dedicated customers. Cus-tom floral design is another popular service that keeps customers coming

back. Seasonal and everyday decorat-ing classes are offered in store and always sell out immediately.

“We emphasize customer service and getting our clients exactly what they want and need,” Corrigan said. “We are always changing and striving to have the most creative displays and newest product out there. It’s not uncommon for a customer to come to the store three times in a month, and it looks dif-ferent each time.”

The White Hare moved to a larger location two years ago that nearly dou-bled its space to 7300 square feet, enabling the store to carry more vari-ety, larger stock and offer more classes.

“We strive to have every client leave the store with a positive experience,” Corrigan said.

The White Hare6121 Mid Rivers Mall Drive

St. Peters(636) 441-1111

www.thewhitehare.com

The St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Stores support programs and services of the St. Vincent de Paul Society and provide those in the community with low priced, gently used merchandise. “Our basic aim is to support the Society

in its work with Catholic parishes,” said Director of Stores Jerry Orzano. “We raise funds for our core programs like help with homelessness, criminal justice, and payment of utilities. If someone needs help in a community, they can go to their local parish and get help through the St. Vincent de Paul Society.”At the same time, the thrift stores help

the whole community to share.“Everyone benefits from our low

prices,” Orzano said. “Because we are community-based, items are donated by and sold to people right here in their neighborhood.” Shoppers have the opportunity to

choose from a large selection of gently used clothing, furniture, household

items, new and rebuilt mattresses and used books – all offered at great prices. Regular customers include people who have little means of support to others who are “shopping down” in this tough economy. Area St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Stores

are located in St. Charles, Ballwin, Dellwood and on S. Kingshighway. In 2012, the four stores served more than 220,000 people, sold more than 1,000,000 units of value-priced merchandise, gave away more than $160,000 worth of free merchandise to those in need, and recycled more than 350,000 pounds of unsalable goods.

St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Stores 1069 Regency Parkway

in Regency Square Shopping Center St. Charles

(636) 946-1700Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

www.svdpstlouis.org/thriftstores

A delay in tax processing by the Internal Revenue Service won’t stop The Old Tax House from providing high quality service to its customers.“As soon as you have your documents,

we’re ready for you. We’ll get your tax return completed, and we’ll be ready as soon as the IRS opens for business,” said The Old Tax House Gen eral Manager Lisa Parres.Locally owned and operated, The Old

Tax House has been serving individuals and businesses in St. Charles County and surrounding areas for 36 years. The company will utilize the extra time waiting for the IRS to look at past tax returns for clients. “We’re always happy to review prior

year tax returns for our clients,” Parres said. “Finding additional deductions is always great news.”Next year, the IRS will require

tax professionals to take and pass a competency exam, comply with ethics rules and take continuing education classes to maintain professional designation.

“We’ve been doing these things for 36 years. We’re thrilled the IRS is implementing regulations to ensure the integrity of our industry,” said Parres.The Old Tax House staff is fully trained

and designated by the IRS as Registered Tax Return Preparer – a full year ahead of schedule. “Our commitment to our customers,

their commitment to us, and our incredible staff are the main ingredients in our continued success,” Parres said. “Good tax preparation is a partnership, and we’ve been very fortunate to partner with some of the best this community has to offer.”Clients who utilize the tax service at

The Old Tax House will automatically be entered into a drawing to win a free iPad.

The Old Tax House8810 Veterans Memorial Pkwy • O’Fallon

(636) 240-7706www.oldtaxhouse.com

(The IRS does not endorse any particular tax preparer. For more info on tax preparers go to IRS.gov.)

Shelby Smith, president and founder

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NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM26 I BuSINESS pROfIlES I JANuARY 23, 2013MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

O’Fallon Nutrition’s goal is to be St. Louis’ best health food and nutrition store. Last January O’Fallon Nutrition moved from Veteran’s Memorial Park-way, where it had been since 2002, to the Woodlawn Crossing shopping cen-ter (near the intersection of Hwy K and Mexico Rd. in O’Fallon). The new store is larger, brighter, and filled with health foods, plus more natural reme-dies, supplements, diet products and sports nutrition. “Our strategy is continuous improve-

ment” says owner Dave Gaule. “For over ten years we’ve made the store better every year. We’ve increased the hours and days we’re open to 7 days a week, we’ve added countless new items, our staff participates in ongoing education, and we’re offering more sales and discounts than ever before.”What makes O’Fallon Nutrition so

special? On top of having the friendli-est and most knowledgeable staff, it combines one of St. Louis’s largest selections of dietary supplements, vita-mins, herbs, fish oils, homeopathics, essential oils, amino acids, protein and

sports nutrition. It also has a natural body care department featuring all nat-ural hair care and skin care along with a new health food grocery department. “We’re excited to offer the communi-

ty an alternative choice to buy bulk health foods by the pound, gluten-free foods, foods suitable to special diets such as Paleo or GAP, gluten-free, dairy-free, raw, and more” says Dave. O’Fallon Nutrition is also beginning to emphasize local products featuring Kuva Coffee, Harvest Grove Farm’s local all-natural pork, The Organic Cave Paleo diet baked goods, Trina Naturals local soaps and lotion bars, and more to come in 2013.

O’Fallon Nutrition8648 Mexico Road • O’Fallon

(636) 240-5283Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.;

Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Sun., Noon-5 p.m. www.ofallonnutrition.com

www.facebook.com/ofallonnutrition

Vela HR Consulting was created to meet the direct needs of the businesses in the area.

“Many organizations have found themselves without adequate HR resources in recent years. We help fill those gaps and provide services to keep your business moving forward,” said Principal Vicki Amsinger, who is a senior professional in human resource management (SPHR) with more than 20 years of experience in employee communications, recruitment, training, performance management, policy development and employee relations.

Providing cost-effective, integrated services to help businesses effectively manage HR responsibilities, risks and issues, Vela HR Consulting supplies knowledge, experience and expertise in organizational development and structure, policy development and review, HR department audits, HR issues and leadership training, which includes interviewing requirements/skills, FMLA administration, leadership communication, performance feedback and reviews, conflict resolution, disciplinary actions and the resignation/

termination process.Vela HR Consulting also can assist

clients with succession planning and workforce development, as well as coaching/counseling services for a leadership team.

“We meet individually with each company’s leadership team and collaborate with them to establish and prioritize their HR objectives,” Amsinger said. “Our philosophy is that business leaders drive the decisions, and we offer the necessary HR support to help them grow.”

Professional, knowledgeable and experienced, Vela HR Consulting can assist businesses in identifying and implementing HR business practices that align with specific goals and missions.

“We are aware that HR is just one part of a successful business, but we’re here to help,” Amsinger said.

Vela HR Consulting, Inc.(314) 740-2211

www.velaHRconsulting.com

Vela hr Consulting

Vicki Amsinger

Wise Owl Resale is a clean, family-friendly resale consignment shop packed with quality merchandise for smart shoppers who enjoy making surprising discoveries and getting great deals. Owner Cindy Andert opened Wise Owl

Resale in July 2012, and she is having the time of her life.“I have been in retail for 25 years

working for others,” Cindy said. “I love resale and collectibles, so this is a natural for me.”Wise Owl Resale has four rooms for

browsing: one with clothing, one with furniture, one brimming with children’s items, and a man cave.All items are brought in on consignment,

so shoppers never know what treasures they are going to find. There are quality antiques and collectibles; jewelry; furniture; artwork and other home décor pieces; household items; gently-used clothing, including many brand-name items; shoes and boots; purses; and infant and children’s apparel, and furniture. Men love exploring the man cave, which is filled with tools; fishing,

camping and sports equipment; barware and more.Everything in the store is marked at

least half off of its original retail price, so customers always enjoy substantial savings. Wise Owl Resale also offers a great

opportunity for consigners, who receive 40 percent of the selling price of their consignment items, which remain on the floor for 90 days or until they are sold.“We itemize everything, and we use

the Internet to get a better price for our consigners,” Cindy explained. For consignment guidelines and a list

of items currently being accepted, visit the Wise Owl Resale website. For a fun, one-of-a-kind shopping experience, visit the store!

Wise Owl Resale301 Droste Road • St. Charles

(636) 724-5722Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.;

Sun., 12-5 p.m.www.wiseowlresale.com

Painful waxing is a thing of the past – along with the high expenses of traditional waxing services.

Known for i ts high-end, yet reasonably priced, full-body waxing services, European Wax Center is a second-generation, family-owned salon without the “ouch factor,” for which traditional waxing methods are known.

“My wife always complained about how painful waxing was, and she hated the irritation afterward,” said owner Dennis Lowery, who co-owns the salon with Brad Frame. “So when we discovered the European Wax Center’s comfort wax, bringing it to the St. Louis area was a no-brainer.”

The key is a four-step process that cleanses, protects , waxes and rejuvenates the skin. The wax, specially formulated in Paris exclusively for European Wax Center, is alcohol-free, has a low melting point and is applied by licensed estheticians at warm bath water temperature. The wax then sets as one continuous elastic layer, adhering only to the hair follicle, not

the skin. Because of its strength and elasticity, the hard wax can be removed without adhesive strips, which cause discomfort and redness.

Best of all, clients are invited to try it out for free.

“Women receive a complimentary bikini line, eyebrow or underarm service on their first time in,” Lowery said, “while men are treated to no-cost eyebrow, ear or nose hair removal.”

The relaxing, luxurious space, which offers a mini retreat, cannot be beat.

European Wax Center has become a nationally recognized brand, with 300 locations across the country and a recent international expansion into Canada. Today, guests recognize European Wax Center as an industry leader in providing guests the ultimate waxing experience.

European Wax Center1640 Clarkson Road • Chesterfield

(636) 536-0777www.waxcenter.com

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At MIND, the Midwest Institute for Neurological Development, there are no textbook answers for how to treat a child.

“MIND does not use canned protocols for diagnoses, such as ADHD,” Program Director Meghan Finnegan said. “Everything we do is completely tailored to the individual child based on his or her needs.”

MIND provides brain-based therapy and neuro-academic therapy to children with a variety of neurobehavioral and neurodevelopmental disorders, including ADD/ADHD, autism, Asperger’s, Tourette’s, motor tic issues, sensory integration issues, TBI, learning disabilities, etc.

The average program for a child lasts 12-16 weeks, three times a week. No medication is utilized, and the progress a child makes has a permanent impact.

“What we’re really looking for is the root of the issue from a physiological standpoint,” Finnegan said. “Our concern is what’s going on inside the child’s brain and how the areas of the brain are communicating with one another. Once we pinpoint the trouble area, we can tackle the

issues with brain-based therapy.”MIND is the Midwest’s first and only

brain-based treatment and educational center dedicated to evaluating and managing neurological disorders.

“For a lot of kids, this is combining the need between neurological and academic,” Finnegan said. “We have certified teachers and special education instructors who work with children, not from a tutoring standpoint, but teaching them skills using what we know about these kids neurologically. At the end of the day, what we want is to really instill confidence in kids.”

Life changing, unique and personalized, MIND’s biggest goal is to let each child reach his or her potential to be able to succeed.

MIND – Midwest Institute for Neurological Development

144 Chesterfield Commons East Road Chesterfield

(636) 537-9800Mon. – Fri., 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.;

Sat., 9 a.m. to noon www.mi4nd.com

Ceasar and Cherry Villegas enjoyed Smoothie King smoothies so much that they purchased a franchise in Cottleville.

“I have been a big fan of Smoothie King smoothies since 2000,” Cherry said. “I love the taste, and I don’t feel guilty drinking them.”

Smoothie King is not your average juice bar.

“It is considered a juice bar, but Smoothie King is the premier smoothie bar and nutritional lifestyle center in the industry,” Cherry said. “Smoothie King offers guests the original, nutritional real fruit smoothie and healthy retail products, including sports nutrition products, energy bars, healthy snacks, vitamin supplements, herbs and minerals. The combination helps achieve health and fitness goals.”

A new favorite smoothie is the Lean1 smoothie, which burns body fat up to 68 percent faster. The high-protein smoothie is known for fighting hunger cravings as well as helping to tone and define muscles. With 27 vitamins and minerals, Lean1 smoothies also aid in

speeding recovery from workouts and are available in chocolate, vanilla and strawberry.

A healthy alternative to fast food, a Smoothie King smoothie is served in a cup, so it is easy to consume on the go. Smoothies are the perfect meal alternative for those wanting to trim down, build muscle, get an energy boost or indulge in a healthy snack. Flavor options are limitless, and each smoothie is made fresh to order by the friendly staff.

Ceasar and Cherry accept catering and volume orders at a discounted price and offer fundraising for schools, sports teams and social organizations.

“Taste does not have to suffer to live a healthier lifestyle,” Cherry said.

Smoothie King4765 Highway N • CottlevilleCorner Mid Rivers Mall Dr.

(636) 939-KING (5464)Mon.-Fri., 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.;

Sat., 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.;Sun., 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. www.smoothieking.com

Enhancing the bond between your pet and family

Positive Paws Pet Training believes that strengthening the communication between your dog and family is essen-tial in creating a healthy bond and achieving acceptable behaviors. Owner Kim Gracner, has educated owners and changed behaviors of over 2,000 dogs. Positive Paws opened in 2006, and offers in-home customized training programs tailored to achieve your goals and your dog’s needs.

Kim believes that training in the dog’s environment is most effective for behavioral change. “Problematic behaviors typically occur within the home environment. Since dogs need leadership and proper structure, the family plays an important role in the training process,” Kim says. “It is essential for your dog to understand your expectations for successful training”.

The programs at Positive Paws Pet Training are structured to teach all ages and breeds. Whether you’re just acquiring a new puppy, attempting to manage your strong-willed adolescent, or striving to maximize your adult

dog’s potential, Positive Paws can help. In addition to basic cues, everyday issues such as house training, jumping, digging, nipping, and excessive bark-ing are addressed. Programs are offered for more challenging issues such as aggression, fear and anxiety.

The method of training is as impor-tant as the cues which are taught. Posi-tive Paws Pet Training practices posi-tive techniques. Kim advocates that dogs learn more readily from reward-ing methods.

Kim is a Certified Canine Behavior Counselor, Certified Professional Dog Trainer, member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, Association of Com-panion Animal Behavior Counselors, and Better Business Bureau. She has two four-legged family members: Brandie, a Chocolate Labrador Retriev-er, and Baxter, a Golden Retriever.

Positive Paws Pet Training(636) 352-3104

www.positivepawstraining.com

Accomplishments are meant to be remembered forever. At Crown Trophy, clients are guaranteed satisfaction. A one-stop shop for supplying awards and recognition products to businesses, schools, athletic associations and many other organizations, Crown Trophy delivers on price, quality and service.

“But we also have other products that customers might not expect a business of our type to carry, such as promotional products, signs, name badges and bronze plaques,” said Ben April, vice president.

He and his wife, Wendy, started their franchises 16 years ago, knowing it would be a good way to combine their talents. In addition to their Ballwin location, the couple also owns a Crown Trophy in St. Peters. Nationally known and locally owned, Crown Trophy is part of the only franchise system in the awards and recognition industry. Its 150-plus stores across the country give it the ability to develop its own exclusive and unique products. The company constantly works to develop exciting new products for its loyal clients. Beginning this year, Crown Trophy now offers full-color, in-house

digital printing for its newest addition, “Signs by Crown,” featuring custom-made banners, yard signs, window and vehicle graphics, posters, name badges, engraved signs, bronze plaques and parking lot signs.

Not only can Crown Trophy supply the same products as its competitors, but it also has its own designs that are exclusive to its stores.

“We are craftsmen at heart, and we strive to generate quality products that we, our customers, and the end recipients will feel proud of,” April said. “We want our customers to feel confident that they are recognizing the achievements of people with the highest quality awards available.”

Crown Trophy15471 Clayton Road • Ballwin

(636) 391-60014021 S. Cloverleaf • St. Peters

636-477-9988Mon. – Fri., 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

www.crowntrophy.com/store-35

NATIONALLY KNOWN, LOCALLY OWNED

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Women who come to The Happy Hormone Cottage have the same three problems: sleep issues, fatigue and low libido. The strategies doctors are using typically deal with drugs to band-aid the symptoms, rather than getting to the root of the problem. That is where The Happy Hormone

Cottage comes in. An educational resource for natural hormone balance, The Happy Hormone Cottage strives to continue to educate women on their options and help them feel better. Through anti-aging and disease-prevention strategies, women can find great customer service and inexpensive, non-invasive help they can trust. Lyn Hogrefe, The Happy Hormone

Cottage owner and director, went through her own issues with hormone imbalance but found many natural options and truths available that were not being communicated to women.“We help determine the cause of

the hormone imbalance and fix that,” Hogrefe said. “When our women

replace their depleted hormone levels with our customized natural hormone therapy, they begin to feel better. We can facilitate in the process of getting one’s hormone levels checked and make a recommended strategy for treatment that will be faxed to your doctor for approval.”The caring staff at The Happy Hormone

Cottage listens to women’s stories, validates all they are going through and then offers a strategy for getting tested, treated and healthy with natural hormone balance. “We have discovered when we ‘fix’

even one woman, we can impact a community. We are all about women helping women,” Hogrefe said. “Our passion truly is women helping women achieve their best health naturally. Anything less is simply unacceptable.”

The Happy Hormone Cottage(636) 373-5091

www.happyhormonecottage.com

Visitors to Two Shamrocks Public House can count on finding two things: true Irish hospitality and delicious, made-from-scratch food, both served in generous portions.“We want to be the friendliest place in

O’Fallon,” said John Harris, who with Gordon Reiter co-owns Two Shamrocks. “Everyone that comes through that door is important to us, and we’ll do anything it takes to keep them coming back.”Open less than a year, Two Shamrocks

already enjoys a strong base of regular customers who return for the camaraderie, fresh, house-made food and libation from a bar featuring the area’s largest selection of Irish brews, ciders and whiskies.Chef Joe Biondo and Harris created

Two Shamrocks’ menu, which is highlighted by delicious meats smoked on-site daily, house-cured corned beef, and a slow-roasted beef used on the Beef and Boursin – a sandwich of seasoned, roasted pulled beef and creamy, herbed Boursin cheese served on a French roll.“We hear from people every day

that the Beef and Boursin is the best sandwich they’ve ever had,” Harris said. Traditional pub foods like Buffalo

Chicken Dip and Spicy Pulled Pork Quesadilla featuring house-smoked pulled pork share the menu with classic fare, like the New York Strip and Grilled Salmon. Other options include Irish Nachos, the half-pound Rock Burger, and Frickles – the buttermilk-battered, deep-fried pickles. Homemade soups, chili, salads and chef-baked desserts like apple pie with cinnamon ice cream and caramel Irish cream sauce round out the menu. “Everything on the menu is someone’s

favorite,” Harris said. “We couldn’t take anything off without someone asking what happened to it.”

Two Shamrocks Public House3449 Pheasant Meadow Drive

O’Fallon(636) 294-6555

Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-midnight www.twoshamrocks.com

Show-Me Mattress is a new, locally-owned-and-operated Mattress store featuring quality mattresses and bedding accessories at excellent prices.

Owner Scott Good only recently opened Show-Me Mattress, but he has a wealth of product knowledge gained from his 15 years of experience in the industry, and decided to use his expertise to open his own retail store in Saint Peters.

“The biggest advantage of buying from Show-Me Mattress is that all of our products are made in the U.S.A. – specifically, in Cape Girardeau,” Scott said. “We are a factory-direct store, so our customers expect to spend less for a better rest.”

In addition to mattresses, the store carries comfort bases, foundation, pillows, sheets, protectors and bed frames.

When customers shop at Show-Me Mattress, they are not simply sold a mattress. The store stocks a variety of mattress styles, and Scott and his trained staff work to make sure each customer

finds the product that best meets their needs.

“We recognize the importance of sleep health,” Scott said. “That is why our mission is to help our customers get the best night’s sleep possible. We utilize our selection of high quality memory foam, Cool gel memory foam, pocketed coil, activate coil and verti-coil mattresses that allows consumers to spend less for better rest.”

Show-Me Mattress accepts cash, checks and all major credit cards and offers no-credit-check financing. Delivery also is available. Conveniently located on Mid Rivers Mall Drive, the store is open every day but Wednesday.

Show-Me Mattress318 Mid Rivers Mall Drive • St. Peters

(636) 387-1999Mon.-Tues. and Thurs.-Sat.,

11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 12-6 p.m.; Closed on Wed.

www.show-memattress.comFacebook Show-Me Mattress

LOOK! O’Fallon is the home to the area’s first and finest retail shopping experience – LOOK! Shops, located at the south end of Hwy. K.

Kathy Machisen and Rebecca Rieg­erix wanted to find a way to inspire local talent and help others and came up with a clever business plan that does both. In August 2012, the longtime friends opened LOOK! Shops, a “Shop Full of Shops” featuring fabulous mer chandise and supporting a worthwhile cause.

LOOK! Shops contains approximately 160 smaller shops within 5,300 square foot space, offering an eclectic mix of new merchan dise, some handcrafted by talented arti sans and an amazing array of specialty items, such as home décor, candles, handmade pottery, doll clothing, children & infant apparel, kitchen essentials, jewelry, hair accessories, skin care products, dog treats and so much more…even a ManCave!

Besides being a fun place to shop, LOOK! Shops is a dream­come­true for those looking for a retail location to sell their merchandise. Those with businesses that are new, expanding,

downsizing or web­based as well as those wanting to test market a new product can showcase their merchan­dise for as little as $25 a month.

LOOK! Shops also has a very nice 20ft x 20ft Event Room that is available to anyone for a very nominal fee. Plan your next bridal or baby shower, birthday party, or just a fun night out with friends! Parties and classes are scheduled for the public as well.

There is a Kidz Korner designed for budding “mini­preneurs” with cubbies where kids can offer sell their creations. The fee – only $5 per month – is donated to The LOOK Foundation, a non­profit foun dation that helps underprivileged children in many ways.

For a fun shopping experience or a low­cost way to sell merchandise, LOOK! Shops is worth a LOOK!

LOOK! Shops 991 Waterbury Falls Drive • O’Fallon

(636) 329-1000www.look-shops.com