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USACE Honors Godfrey's Brian Markert With Bronze De Fleury Medal

4 months 2 weeks ago
ST. LOUIS — Brian Markert, a Godfrey resident and longtime civilian employee of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), was honored at a retirement ceremony in September 2025 for his 32 years of service with the St. Louis District. At the ceremony, Markert received the Bronze De Fleury Medal from Lieutenant General William Graham, Chief of Engineers and Commanding General of USACE. He was also awarded the Meritorious Civilian Service Medal by Major General Kimberly Peeples, Mississippi Valley Division Commander, and a Certificate of Appreciation from Colonel Andy Pannier, St. Louis District Commander. Markert began his career in 1993 at Mark Twain Lake in Northeast Missouri and later worked at the Rivers Project Office in West Alton, Mo., focusing on natural resource and facilities management. In 2001, he transitioned to the Project Management office in St. Louis. He retired as the Program Manager for the Upper Mississippi River Restoration Program, a position he held for mor

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How to Make Your Own Autumn Wreath with Natural Materials

4 months 2 weeks ago
Did you know that wreaths have been used for thousands of years as symbols of victory, celebration, and hospitality? Creating a wreath from natural materials is not only a way to honor this tradition but also an opportunity to bring a unique and personal touch to your home décor. Crafting an autumn wreath, in particular, allows you to harness the rich colors, textures, and scents of the season, transforming simple natural elements into a stunning piece of art. Gathering Your Materials: The Foundation of Your Wreath The first step in making an autumn wreath is collecting the right natural materials. While store-bought wreath bases are convenient, using natural materials can deepen the connection to the craft and the season. Wreath Base Options Vine or Grapevine: These bases are flexible and rustic, complementing natural foliage beautifully. Willow or Birch Twig: For a lighter, more delicate structure. Wire Frame with Moss: If you prefer a sturdier base, a wire fram

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More than Half of Americans Say Food Brings Them Closer: How to Harness This Power with a Fall-Themed Potluck Dinner

4 months 2 weeks ago
Did you know that 67% of Americans believe sharing a meal with others strengthens relationships? Potlucks, where everyone contributes a dish, are among the most effective ways to foster connection, conversation, and community. When paired with a thoughtfully curated fall theme, a potluck dinner becomes more than just a meal—it becomes an experience that celebrates both togetherness and the rich flavors of the season. If you’re planning to host a fall-themed potluck dinner, the challenge lies in creating an inviting atmosphere, coordinating diverse dishes, and ensuring your guests feel both comfortable and inspired. This article offers practical tips and insights to help you craft a memorable event that highlights the best of fall’s bounty while maximizing the social magic of a potluck. Setting the Tone: Inviting Guests with a Clear and Creative Theme A well-defined theme helps guests know what to expect and sparks their creativity. Instead of a generic "fall" label

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How to Celebrate National Coffee Day

4 months 2 weeks ago
Did you know that over 400 billion cups of coffee are consumed worldwide each year? This staggering number highlights coffee’s role not only as a daily ritual for millions but also as a cultural phenomenon spanning continents and centuries. National Coffee Day, celebrated annually on September 29th in the United States and on various other dates globally, serves as a testament to coffee’s enduring popularity. But how did this unofficial holiday come to be, and what is its significance beyond free coffee giveaways and promotions? Exploring the history of National Coffee Day reveals a fascinating story intertwined with commerce, culture, and community. The Origins of Coffee Appreciation Coffee’s journey from a mysterious bean to a global staple began centuries ago in the Ethiopian highlands, where legend credits a goat herder named Kaldi with first noticing the energizing effects of coffee cherries. By the 15th century, coffee had spread to Yemen, where Sufi monks

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This Day in History on September 29: Patent Granted for Typewriter Design

4 months 2 weeks ago
September 29 marks a day of profound significance on the global stage. September 29, 1885, saw a remarkable development in the world of technology with the first patent granted for a practical typewriter design by Christopher Latham Sholes. This invention revolutionized communication and office work, setting the stage for the modern keyboard and typing technologies we rely on today. In the 20th century, September 29, 1954, was notable for the launch of the first successful nuclear-powered submarine, the USS Nautilus, by the United States. This technological breakthrough not only transformed naval warfare but also represented a significant step forward in nuclear engineering and marine science. On the cultural front, September 29 has been a day of artistic milestones as well. In 1988, the iconic Broadway musical “The Phantom of the Opera” celebrated its 1,000th performance, cementing its status as one of the most beloved and enduring theatrical productions worldwide. It

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Beer Master Tour

4 months 2 weeks ago

The biggest fans of Budweiser must book a Beermaster Tour while they’re in St. Louis. The two-hour tour gives guests an all-access look at how the King of Beers is […]

The post Beer Master Tour appeared first on Explore St. Louis.

Rachel Huffman

Day Fresh Tour

4 months 2 weeks ago

The most popular tour at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery in St. Louis explains the life of an Anheuser-Busch beer from seed to glass. Along the way, you’ll visit the Clydesdales Paddock […]

The post Day Fresh Tour appeared first on Explore St. Louis.

Rachel Huffman

Cherokee Street Neighbors See Slumlord Dara Daugherty’s Tight Grip

4 months 2 weeks ago

From St. Louis Magazine: Earlier this year, a neighborhood group wrested control of an abandoned property in the heart of Cherokee Street from a notorious slumlord. They spent $173,000 fixing it up, with an eye on converting the property into a pair of sleek townhomes. But then, after a few months of work, the property […]

The post Cherokee Street Neighbors See Slumlord Dara Daugherty’s Tight Grip appeared first on Construction Forum.

Tom Finan

The Art of the Budget Deal

4 months 2 weeks ago
Today on TAP: With a government shutdown looming on Wednesday, will Trump screw Democrats, Republicans, the public, or himself?
Robert Kuttner