January 30 - February 5, 2009 Webster-Kirkwood Times 9-A

9Hometown Fam Biz

Back & Neck Care Center Celebrates 24 Years In Webster Groves

“At the suggestion of my uncle, Mr. Gus Lamar, former resident and teacher at Webster Groves High School, we started our practice in Webster Groves. We have now served the community for the last 24 years in the same location, making us the oldest established chiropractic practice in the area,” said Dr. Joseph Lane, owner of the Back & Neck Care Center of Webster Groves. “My father, brother, and I built this business from the ground up,” said Dr. Lane.

Dr. Lane is a licensed chiropractic phy-sician, a certified acupuncturist, and was previously awarded the prestigious honor of Chiropractor of the Year in the State of Missouri. Previously, Dr. Lane received the Philanthropic Businessman of the Year award, and in 2005, the Outstanding Business award, both from the Chamber of Commerce for his Community Service. He received his degree from Logan College of

Chiropractic and upon graduation, was given one of two Clinic Achieve ment Awards for his expertise in the field.

Dr. Lane would like to acknowledge his patients who participated in the annual “Coats for Kids,” “Adopt-a-Family” and “Fan Fare” campaigns throughout the past year. “Through their kind donations and generosity we have helped the children and families in the Webster Groves area and Webster-Rock Hill Ministries, admin-istered by Ed Johnson.” Yes, Dr. Lane is still managing baseball teams in the sum-mer!

In the operation of his practice, Dr. Lane relies on the expertise of his assis-tant, Terri. With over fifteen years of experience, she handles insurance billing, medical records, and some advertising and marketing tasks. He also counts on Laura to manage the schedule and Teresa

to assist with physical therapy.

Lead Guitar; Lauren Lane, Drums; Mike Lane, Lead Vocals; Dr. Lane, Bass Guitar; Cindy Lane.

604 E. Lockwood • Webster Groves • 314-968-4696

Back & Neck Care_________________________________________C E N T E R______________________________________________ of Webster Groves _____

Kirkwood Plumbing Thanks Customers For 23 Years In Business

Kirkwood Plumbing is starting its 23rd year as a family-owned business based in Kirkwood, owned by Paul and Debbie Schaefer.

Beginning from the converted coal bin of their home to a new building on Grand Avenue in Kirkwood, Kirkwood Plumbing has grown into a full-service plumbing company servicing the Kirkwood and surrounding areas.

With the growth came growing pains; however, Paul continued to hire and look for qualified staff to continue his vision of performing only quality work with integrity in all aspects of the business.

Paul routinely challenges his employees to attend continued education classes to keep up-to-date.

Kirkwood Plumbing can provide services ranging from a simple water closet repair to a main sewer replacement.

“We are equipped and

ready to help you,” Paul said. Realizing times are tough, the Schaefers

are offering $75 off any Ruud water heater which is installed prior to Feb. 28.

Customers appreciate Kirkwood Plumbing.

Betty Hazelwood of Kirkwood recently commented in an e-mail: “I have called upon Kirkwood Plumbing for many years, for both small and large plumbing services. They are always prompt, reliable and courteous.

“They go out of their way to accommodate my schedule, and their prices are fair,” Hazelwood continued. “I have complete confidence in their work and do not hesitate to recommend them to my friends.”

The Schaefers thank their customers for their continued support.

“We realize without all of you we would not be here!” they said.

KirKwood Plumbing248 Grand Avenue • Kirkwood • 966-4772

Mike Wende, Hope Goffstein, Paul Schaefer, Debbie, Diana Price, Jason Blecha, Brad Langreder, Jake Brewer, Cary Mullins, MIke Miller, Mark Ritchie, Dennis Nieroda

Reger Roofing: Quality Workmanship Since 1928

Reger Roofing and Siding Company has been a family tradition since 1928 and truly a neighborhood business for 81 years. It was founded by Joseph Reger, great-grandfather to current owner Deborah Reger Menley.

“Joseph believed in quality workmanship and customer satisfaction – beliefs we still hold today.” said Menley.

His motto has been handed down through five generations: Joseph, Anthony, Richard and Deborah Reger Menley, and Menley’s two sons Jesse and Kaylin.

Reger specializes in building repairs and improvements, including residential and commercial roofing installation, repairs, siding, windows, tuckpointing, guttering, counter-flashing, skylight, sheetmetal build-up, EPDM, Modified and TPO.

As owner, Menley takes the time to talk with customers, answer questions and to treat each person as a individual.

Debbie Denter, office manager for 16 years, is ready to greet customers and to answer their

questions. Jim Boggs, Menley’s brother-in-law and Reger’s supervisor, schedules all jobs and is the troubleshooter.

David Akers, Mike Cortopassi and Jesse Menley are the men to call for shingle roofs, gutters, siding and commercial roofing. Jesse Menley, the start of the fifth generation, specializes in helping commercial building owners begin roof maintenance programs at no charge.

Reger Roofing salesmen are backed by more than 75 years of combined roofing and exterior contracting experience.

Sam Mischanko, with Reger for over 34 years, specializes in slate and tile repairs. Bill Meehan, Tom Wiseman, Roger Cowan and Kaylin Menley (fifth generation) combine 78 years of experience in roofing, counter-flashing, repairs, and chimney tuck pointing. Finally Herbert Norman, with Reger for over 58 years, helps to keep the business running smoothly.

“We look forward to doing business with new and old customers in the future,” Menley said.

The experts at Reger Roofing and Siding Co.

641 Leffingwell • Kirkwood • 314-965-6203

January 2009

The next Hometown Family Business profiles section runs in July 2009.

Call 314-968-2699 to find out how you can be a part of it.

10-A Webster-Kirkwood Times January 30 - February 5, 2009

10Hometown Fam Biz

Agape Construction Company, An Award-Winning Design/Build firm

The Agape team provides a perfect blend of architectural design and technical expertise at a price point that can meet a client’s budget… and incorporates “green” sensitive building practices.

Agape Construction was founded in 1985 by Kevin O’Brien, who is both a journeyman carpenter and a professional engineer. O’Brien’s wife and best friend, Amy, does the office administration and marketing. Deeply rooted in both the Webster and Kirkwood communities, the O’Briens are grateful to work together in a business they love. All five O’Brien children have worked for the company at one time or another.

Over the past 25 years, Agape Construction has grown into a full-service design/build remodeling firm of 15 devoted professionals. They specialize in total renovations, additions, gourmet kitchens and new custom homes.

Specializing in both remodeling and new home construction gives Agape’s talented architect and professional engineer unique insights into the entire building process.

As a result, they have created numerous award-winning projects in the Kirkwood/Webster area. In 2008 Agape was delighted to receive two Homer Awards and the BBB Torch award for customer satisfaction and ethics in business.

“As a company, our goal is to do everything as if for the Lord, to the best of our abilities, with absolute honesty, and with the interest of others forefront in our minds,” said President Kevin O’Brien.

Client satisfaction is a true reflection of Agape’s vision, as attested to by the Horneyer family.

“Agape came up with a fabulous design to update our home for modern living and aging in place,” Cathy Horneyer said upon completion of the total renovation of their landmark home. “We were very impressed with the oversight Agape provided during the

entire building process. We love our ‘new’ home!”

Visit Agape at www.AgapeConstruction.com and remember, “What you dream… we can build!”

435 E. Clinton • Kirkwood • 314-909-9050www.AgapeConstruction.com

Pictured (l to r) are: Dean Bantz, Amy O’Brien, Owner Kevin O’Brien, Laurie Smith and Don Picard.

Healthy, Beautiful Skin From St. Louis Skin Solutions

Amy Miller M.D. opened St. Louis Skin Solutions in January 2004. A former Miss Seattle, Dr. Miller has always had a keen interest in skin care and aesthetics.

Dr. Miller and her staff have been very selec-tive in the lasers, products and procedures they offer to insure quality and the best results. Treatments are performed by Dr. Miller who is on-site four days a week, along with Adrienne Van Camp M.A. who has been with Dr. Miller for over six years, and Dawn Castillo R.N. who has been there for over two years.

Dr. Miller offers cosmetic injectables for men and women. Botox® is commonly used for wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes, lips, the forehead and between the eyebrows. Dermal fill-ers such as Juvederm, Sculptra, Radiesse, Perlane, Evolence and Restylane are used to correct naso-labial folds, marionette lines, scars, other wrin-kles, fine lines and/or deep folds.

St. Louis Skin Solutions offers a variety of true lasers for multiple conditions and treat-ments. Laser hair removal is one of the most popular laser treatments. Dr.

Miller also provides many other laser services, which include acne treatments, vascular therapy and skin rejuvenation, which is for correction of sun damage and age spots. Laser peels are used to resurface the skin to smooth texture and soften fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars. Other things such as birthmarks, moles, skin tags and port wine stains can be treated with a laser. Other non-laser services are available as well, such as micro-derms, chemical peels, make-up and general skin care consultations.

St. Louis Skin Solutions is a proud provider of all the Obagi lines. The newest service is the FDA approved SmoothShapes laser for cellulite.

Dr. Miller and her small staff would love to meet with individuals to discuss skin care needs and to come up with a personal plan for optimal results for their individual goals.

St. Louis Skin Solutions is having a Botox Day on March 5. Botox® will be 10 percent off. Call 543-4015 or e-mail adrienne@stlouisskin.

com for an appointment. Times are limited.

Call of visit the Web site for more information.

From L to R: Adrienne Van Camp, M.A., Amy Miller, M.D., and Dawn Castillo, R.N.

13100 Manchester Suite 250 • Des Peres • 543-4015Fax: 314-543-4070 • E-mail: skincare@stlouisskin.com • www.stlouisskin.com

The GuTTer Cover Co.636-928-2828theguttercovercompany.com

The Gutter Cover Company Dedicated To Service, Integrity, Quality

The Gutter Cover Company is a Christian-based, family-owned business. Owners Jim and Staci Maneage are dedicated to outstanding cus-tomer service, integrity in pricing and product quality.

“We want to keep our customers off the roof by giving them a permanent fix to the nagging gutter care problem,” Staci said.

The Gutter Cover Company is the exclusive authorized dealer in the St. Louis metro area for The Gutter Cover™. The internal bracket system is unique to this product.

“You want the real ‘The Gutter Cover™’ so make sure it’s from Jim and Staci Maneage!” said Staci. “And it’s virtually maintenance free.”

The company installs The Gutter Cover™ year-round. The cover fits over existing gutters keeping gutters free flowing, keeps water away from the house and prevents ice build-up from causing damage. The bracket system, along with the heavy gauge gutter cover adds to appearance and strengthens a home’s existing gutter sys-tem.

Consumer Advocate Jill Farmer says, “The

company’s top-notch product, customer service and integrity are the best in the business. To have such high quality, at such a great value, make The Gutter Cover™ the only choice for me.”

Quality materials, expert installation and 100 percent customer satisfaction remain the hall-marks of The Gutter Cover Company, which offers a lifetime performance warranty. The Maneages also do their own work and do not subcontract. They receive many compliments for their fine work and high-quality product. The company is a member of the Home Builders Association and has received the Angie’s List award three years in a row.

The company has also received Better Business Bureau’s accredited business emblem. The Maneages encourage potential customers to check their record with the BBB.

“Each of our customers is special,” said Staci. “You’re not just another job.”

On a personal note, Jim and Staci have three sons: Matthew 25, Kyle, 21 and four-year-old Andrew. The family is also in the process of adopting a baby daughter, Ellianna, from China.

Jim and Staci Maneage with Matthew, Andrew and Kyle.

Tower Tee Reaches Out To Students, Offers Instruction Aimed At Scholarships

Tower Tee Family Golf and Recreation has been around since 1962. More recently it has expanded its focus to training student golfers.

“We will provide golf training to over 500 elementary and high school students in 2009,” owner Steve Lotz said. “We serve West County and South County CYC programs, four univer-sities, seven high schools, the Webster Groves recreation program, St. Louis Community College and other programs.”

Lotz said the business, located 6727 Heege Road, has broadened its instructional programs to focus on training and coaching high school athletes for golf scholarships.

Tower Tee’s staff consists of Lotz, who is also the head PGA professional; Debbie Gruenewald, general man-ager; Bob Gaus, PGA mem-ber and teaching profession-al; Sabrina Tate, LPGA member and teaching pro-fessional; Drew Huelsing, PGA apprentice and teach-ing professional; and Dave Swatek, who has served as “The King of the Cage” at

Tower Tee baseball for more than 30 years. Lotz purchased Tower Tee in 2002 from his

father Richard. Richard originally opened the facility with his father Roy Lotz.

The facility features a golf range, an 18-hole par three golf course, batting cages and miniature golf. It is open every day of the year regardless of weather.

“We have heaters in the winter and fans in the summer,” Lotz said.

Lotz said customers most often compli-ment him on Tower Tee’s friendly staff, hours of operation, its three large putting greens and the overall condition of the facility.

Tower Tee’s coaching staff has also brought the business some recognition recently.

Bob Gaus, one of Tower Tee’s coaching staff, played in his second U.S. Open in 2008.

The business has hosted such notable figures as John Goodman, Bobby Knight, Bob Costas and Joe Buck as well as numerous PGA players.

Pictured (l to r) are: Sabrina Tate, Bob Gaus, Steve Lotz and Debbie Gruenewald

6727 Heege Road • 314-481-5818 • www.towertee.com

January 30 - February 5, 2009 Webster-Kirkwood Times 11-A

11Hometown Fam Biz

MID-WEST FLOOR:Quality Through Time For 70 Years

Mid-West Floor has been offering the finest products in flooring decor for 70 years. The company offers a wide variety of brand name flooring products for both residential and commercial use. From quality carpeting and area rugs, to beautiful ceramic tile and vinyl, to the natural beauty of hardwood floors, Mid-West Floor has it all.

The professional sales staff and ASID designers at Mid-West Floor are ready and willing to assist customers in selecting the style of flooring that is right for their homes. Customers can visit the two showrooms or take advantage of convenient shop at home service.

Due to flooding in September, Mid-West Floor's Brentwood showroom has been totally remodeled. Everything was ruined, flood waters even covered the desks inside the offices.

Mid-West Floor employs its own union

master-craftsmen in all categories of floor installations. For existing hardwood, it offers the finest workmanship in sanding and refinishing existing wood floors to their original beauty.

Mid-West Floor has an outstanding variety of carpeting from quality makers like Karastan & Masland. Whether customers prefer wall-to-wall or custom-design area rugs, the staff at Mid-West Floor can help customers choose just the right product for their home.

Ceramic tile and marble flooring is very popular due to the variety of design possibilities and color availability of today’s tiles. Mid-West Floor offers a full line of tile for use on walls, floors and countertops, including porcelain, ceramic and natural stone (marble, granite, slate). Mid-West Floor also has a wide selection of vinyl and laminate flooring to choose from. Visit the showrooms for design inspiration!

Back: Pete Sharamitaro, John Speed, Jim BaileyFront: Pat Beloff , Gary Mueller

2714 Breckenridge Ind. Ct. • Brentwood • 314-647-6060287 Lamp & Lantern Village • Chesterfield • 636-391-6800

www.mid-westfloor.com

Back: Bob Akers, Mary Curtis, Larry Crouch Front: Richard Haar, Jeri LaCroix

brentwood CHeSterFIeLd

Crestwood Appliance Repair: More Than A Parts And Service CenterCrestwood Appliance Repair Inc. has

diversified over the years to stay afloat. Today, President Sterling Frey and Vice

President Steve Frey offer major appliance parts, plus die cast cars, airplanes, fire trucks and tractors. Their newest item is Sterling’s non-scratch sponges which the Freys sell coast-to-coast in about 400 stores. The business has been located in Crestwood since 1964. In 1998, it moved to its present location at 9979 Watson Road (9/10 of a mile west of Crestwood Court).

“We started out as a small appliance vacuum and electric shaver parts and service company,” said Sterling. “Now because most small appliances are made so cheap, we have had to diversify in many new things or go broke.”

In 1987 Sterling created Sterling’s Products, a preshave and liquid head

cleaner for electric shavers, which has become a big success.

“Two years ago I found a new non-scratch sponge at a trade show in Las Vegas. The company I was buying them from was a loser and it went out of business,” Sterling explained. “I found the company that made them and I now import them under my Sterling’s label. It will be a multi-million dollar product this year.”

The Freys take pride in their work and being the best at what they do.

“We never ask a customer to spend money on something we would not do ourselves,” Sterling said.

That philosophy has earned the trust of their customers.

“They know we do good work and trust our advice,” Sterling said of his customers. “And, I recently bought out Authorized Appliance on Hampton Ave.”

Steve and Sterling Frey

9979 Watson Road • Crestwood • 314-909-890041 Years in Crestwood • 8:30 to 5 Daily. Sat 8:30 to 3

Crestwood Appliance Repair, Inc.

Lighthouse Biographies Preserves Family Memories In Books, On Video

Kevin and Becky Prewitt

With everyone’s busy lives, it’s often hard to find the time, or even know how to begin to preserve family memories, stories and pictures.

At Lighthouse Biographies LLC, a newly-opened business in St. Louis, Kevin and Becky Prewitt are helping people create family legacies by conducting personal interviews which they transform into hardbound books (complete with photos) or DVDs.

After losing his father 14 years ago, along with a lifetime of memories, Kevin has had a passion to help people leave a legacy for their loved ones. Becky also understands the loss of life and the regret of not having asked more questions.

“My children never knew their grandma. I wish I would’ve done something like this for them,” she said.

Kevin’s 20-plus years in management and customer service and Becky’s 25-plus years in print layout and design, bring a blend of compassion and professionalism to the creation of beautiful hardbound family legacy books.

They also create Photo Storybooks using a customer’s personalized captions or short stories to go along with the pictures. These books can be theme books: vacations, anniversaries, weddings, sports teams, baby books, even children’s artwork.

Call 314-723-3417 or visit Web site at www.LighthouseBiographies.com.

Richard’s Roofing and Exteriors - Humble Beginnings Lead To Success

It all started in a basement. Dick Russell and Rich Ray started their

company, Richard’s Roofing and Exteriors, in Russell’s basement on Washington Avenue in Kirkwood in 1990.

“I told (Ray) that we will forever be connected, just like being married!” Russell said.

In the early 1990s, the company moved out of the basement and into a renovated 1920s farmhouse, which now serves as an office, and a separate warehouse at its current location at 344 Leffingwell Ave.

The company’s two buildings often serve as showrooms because they are outfitted with some of the company’s products.

“Our office has vinyl replacement windows installed, so folks can actually try them out,” said Kevin Kilpatrick, president of the company’s siding and window division.

The company strives to use quality materials as well as quality labor, Russell said.

“So many roofing and exteriors companies sub-contract their work today,” he said. “We must constantly stress the fact that we employ long-time people, who are all hourly employees.”

Ray said the company’s dedication to using its own employees sometimes leads to a slightly higher price for completing a job, along with an explanation as to why that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

“Our workmanship and customer service are well above our competitors who ‘sub-out’ their labor,” Ray said.

Kilpatrick said the company’s focus on quality workmanship has helped build a strong reputation.

“Word of mouth is our best network,” Kilpatrick said. “Our customers appreciate the services we provide.”

For more information, visit www.richardsroofing.com or call 965-3008.

Rich Ray, Kevin Kilpatrick and Dick Russell.

344 Leffingwell • Kirkwood • 965-3008

RichaRds

Roofing & ExtERioRs inc.

12-A Webster-Kirkwood Times January 30 - February 5, 2009

12Hometown Fam Biz

Miracle Method Offers Savings Over Replacing Old Bathroom Or Kitchen Miracle Method is a bathroom and kitchen

refinishing business offering services that fit the bill during both good and bad economic times, according to owners Terry and Darlene Kavanaugh.

The St. Louis company refinishes old, worn out and dated tubs, tiles, vanity tops and countertops. Miracle Method also makes repairs to fiberglass. The www.miraclemethod.com website answers questions that customers have about the process.

“When homeowners are selling they need to improve marketability. When not selling, homeowners are needing and wanting ease of maintainability and an up-to-date look,” Terry Kavanaugh said.

As a franchise company, Kavanaugh said Miracle Method offers 30 years of experience with more than 100 locations across America. The company has employed the same proce-dures on hundreds of thousands of jobs.

“That means our procedures must work.

So, why choose a less experienced company to do your work. You get what you pay for,” Kavanaugh said.

Customers want the best product, the best service, and the best price. At Miracle Method, Kavanaugh said the company’s quality servic-es will save customers both money and time.

“Our goal is to help homeowners with the best quality and service we can give by offer-ing homeowners a major cost savings over tearing out and replacing a bathroom or kitchen — then being able to use that room in less than 24 hours,” Kavanaugh said.

Miracle Method is a family-run business, with Terry and Darlene Kavanaugh joined by their daughter, Tabatha Veach as office manager and son-in-law Bob Veach serving as lead tech-nician. Other technicians include Correy Dortch and Tracy McFarland.

Look for Miracle Method, booth 4921, at the Home & Garden Show, March 5-9, at the Edward Jones Dome.

From left: Bob Veach, Tabatha Veach, Darlene Kavanaugh and Tom Kavanaugh.

1-888-992-6222www.miraclemethod.com

Martha’s Hands provides quality, compas-sionate private duty home health care. Our nurs-ing team works with the family to develop a cus-tomized care plan for the client.

Typical services include bathing and dressing assistance; meal preparation/clean-up; medica-tion set-up and reminders; light housekeeping; laundry; errand running; and companionship.

Eileen and John Hedrick founded Martha’s Hands with a mission that Eileen was taught over 30 years ago. While a nursing student, Eileen was taught compassionate care by the Sisters of Mercy, emphasizing total wellness. Eileen applied this mission in her nursing career.

John had built his own success, having run his own successful engineering company since the mid 1980s. With Eileen’s focus on high quality standards and John’s ability to set up a company, Martha’s Hands started in their basement in 1997.

Known for its quality service, Martha’s Hands

has grown to become one of the premiere private-duty home health agencies in St. Louis.

Recently, Martha’s Hands launched a new program called Just for Moms, which helps expecting and new moms with care for them-selves, newborns, siblings and your home.

Martha’s Hands now offers basic dental ser-vices in your home. These Mobile Dentistry Services, performed by Dr. Dennis McCaffrey, provides people dental services with-out leaving the comfort of their own home.

Martha’s Hands maintains membership in the National Private Duty Association, Missouri Alliance for Home Care, Social Workers in Long Term Care and the Kirkwood/Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce.

While actual family members have joined the company, the Hedricks consider all of their employees members of their family, working to continue Eileen’s original mission of “Love through Service.”

The Martha’s Hands Team is here to serve you and your loved one. Recognized as one of the area’s premiere private-duty home health services since 1997, Martha’s Hands has provided over 1,000,000 hours of compassionate care.

11906 Manchester • www.marthashands.com • 314-965-4350

Martha’s Hands Home Health Provides “Love Through Service”

The Medicine Shoppe In Affton Delivers Neighborhood Drug Store Service

Tom and Lynn Schmittgens have been pro-viding personal service at The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy in Affton since 1989.

“We wanted to practice pharmacy in a neigh-borhood drug store setting,” said Lynn.

They bought the full-service pharmacy and home health care product store from Richard and Belle Schneider when they retired. The Medicine Shoppe has been in Affton for 32 years. The Schmittgenses moved to their current location at 7922 Mackenzie Road in August 2006.

Tom, a registered pharmacist, has over 30 years of pharmacy experience in hospital and retail settings. As a breast cancer survivor, he has a special empathy with his “sisters.”

“Living through that kind of diagnosis has given us great experience to assist families facing critical illnesses,” Lynn said.

As an independent pharmacy, The Medicine Shoppe is facing today’s challenges from mail order and big box competition.

“We find personalized service could never be more important,” said Lynn. “There are so many changes in medications due to cost or insurance or other needs. It is so confusing for

people. A good pharmacist is an invaluable asset. Having one pharmacy “home” is impor-tant.”

To also beat the competition, the Schmittgenses have recently expanded their home health care business. Plus, they offer free delivery and the free mailing of prescriptions. The store also accepts most insurance, Medicare Part D, Missouri RX, and Medicaid.

“We are certified in diabetes, asthma and allergy, immunizations (pending), and offer more classes and individual medication management counseling,” Lynn added.

Their staff is also service oriented. Personnel includes relief pharmacist Rasma Chereson R.Ph.; pharmacy technicians, Amira Mujkic, Karen Richard and Becky Maness; pharmacy cashiers, Colleen and Bill Schmittgens (Lynn and Tom’s children), Laura Porter and Shelby Meyers; and drivers Emir Ramic and Gary Maness for out-of-Affton deliveries and All Restaurants Deliver for

Affton deliveries.Hours are Monday-

Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

From left: Lynn Schmittgens, Becky Maness, Karen Richard, Tom Schmittgens and Amira Mujkic.

7922 Mackenzie Road • 314-638-3535 • medicineshoppe.com/0128

Custom Concepts Gets Homeowners Involved In Building Process

Family-owned and operated Custom Concepts Design & Build has been serving the Midwest since 1965.

Patrick A. Tosie Sr. owns the custom home building company which builds custom homes, room additions and log homes. Tosie’s staff includes Mike Roth, sales man-ager who joined Tosie in 1996; Randy Strunk, a consultant joined Tosie in 1994; and Steve Rehagen, a design professional, joined Tosie in 1998.

Now in its second generation, Custom Concepts was started with the philosophy to help people get the most for their construc-tion budget by getting them actively involved in the building process.

The “Partner in Building” program allows customers to choose products that go into a home, the contractors who work on it, as well as the design that best fits their lifestyle. By acting as an owner-builder, customers can save up to 30 percent

and more of the appraised value of their fin-ished home, earning instant equity.

“Custom Concepts helps you get the most for your construction budget,” Tosie said.

Plus, Tosie noted that every addition, home and log home is personally designed for each client.

Through the years Tosie has noticed that people are doing larger projects than ever before.

“Each and every customer is different, each with unique wants, needs and challeng-es,” Tosie said. “Every job is a new experi-ence and I have the satisfaction of helping people live in the house of their dreams.”

Custom Concepts offers free building workshops several times a year. They cover everything from type of home, budget, financing to building permit application. The next work-shop will be held on Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m., at Custom Concepts in Sunset Hills.

3751 S. Lindbergh • 314-821-6700www.mycustomhome.com

Pat Tosie

Before

After

January 30 - February 5, 2009 Webster-Kirkwood Times 13-A

13Hometown Fam Biz

The Hair Affair Expands With New Manicure And Pedicure Spa

The Hair Affair in Webster Groves, which has been keeping its customers looking great at the same location since 1977, has now expand-ed to offer more services.

Denise Donovan and Joan Bieser are cur-rent owners of the hair and nail salon. They both worked for the original owners, John Newkirk and Winnie Berberich. Donovan took over the salon in 2004 when they retired. Bieser became a partner in 2007.

The staff at The Hair Affair also includes Bieser’s niece Kim Mahler, receptionist since 2007; hair stylists Leslie Essner, Ann Shanfeld, who joined the salon in 2004; and Sue Smithson and Eraka McCulla, who joined the salon in 2008.

“We have a wonderful staff on board; we support each other,” said Bieser. “We love our clients and Webster.”

The Hair Affair offers many services and products such as Redken hair prod-ucts, OPI nail products, man-icures, pedicures, hair cuts, color services, perms, and facial waxing.

“We specialize in corrective color, foils and overlays,” said Bieser.

Bieser enjoys her work, thanks in part to the loyal customer base and meeting great people.

“We are always growing and there is always something new to learn in our field,” Bieser said.

Customers like the salon also.According to Bieser, customers like that

The Hair Affair is not a pretentious salon; that it has great price levels and a friendly staff. In addition, the atmosphere is very comfortable and laid back.

The Hair Affair has recently expanded its manicure and pedicure spa taking over part of the space Maui Tan vacated when it went out of business.

Bieser invites the public to an Open House to celebrate the grand opening of the manicure/pedicure space. It will held on Friday, Feb. 6, 4 to 7 p.m. Refreshments will be served.

Back Row L to R: Denise Donovan, Joan Bieser and Eraka McCulla.Front Row L to R: Leslie Essner, Sue Smithson, Ann Shanfeld and Kim Mahler.

8122 Big Bend Blvd. • Webster Groves • 314-968-3253

hairthe

affair

Kuhn Construction: Protecting Historic Neighborhoods

Webster Groves and Kirkwood take pride in their rich history. The century-old rivalry, the Turkey Day Game, is a great example of this but so are the historic streets and century-old homes.

These neighborhoods are proud of their homes and the homeowners work hard to restore rather than tear down and start fresh. This is why the Kuhn Construction Co., Inc. family has felt so comfortable establishing themselves in the Kirkwood and Webster area for almost 30 years..

Kuhn specializes in restoring and updating older homes.

“We are not in the business of tearing down homes,” said Owner Rick Kuhn. “We pride ourselves on matching hun-dred-year-old trim and woodwork to make the new and the old flow together seamlessly.”

From new kitchens and bathrooms to two-story additions, Kuhn is a master at taking an old space and making it new again, while keeping the integrity of the original home and neighborhood in mind.

Rick Kuhn noted that his company's philosophy for executing a successful project is based on the importance of building relationships with each client.

Kuhn goes out of his way to establish rapport with the clients, making sure that he knows as much about what the client wants and needs as the client does.

“We establish a high level of trust, and, then, we deliver a quality product,” he said.

“If you love your old neighborhood but need more space or just a little updating, call Kuhn Construction!” Kuhn said.

755 E. Monroe • Oakland • 314-966-KUHNwww.kuhnconst.com

Don’t tear down; Build up.

Show Me Blinds Makes Window Fashions A Breeze

Show Me Blinds and Shutters Inc. has the knowledge and expertise to make window fash-ion projects a breeze.

Owner, Robert Starr acquired the already successful and established Hunter Douglas Gallery in 2006. The gallery has been in busi-ness for over 13 years.

Show Me Blinds and Shutters offers blinds, shades, shutters and draperies. Customers are invited to stop by the store and pick up a free Designing Windows catalog. A free in-home consultation with a professional design consul-tant will guide customers through the process of picking out the best treatment for their win-dows.

The Show Me Blinds team includes: Delayna Adams, a design consultant with over seven years experience in the window fashion indus-try; Eric Oliphant, business consultant – EGO Business Consultants; plus Robert Starr, owner/installer.

Along with experience, the team provides service with the care and the personal touch to guarantee customer satisfaction.

“I’ll make sure your window fashion project is a positive and thoroughly satisfying experi-ence,” Starr said. “I enjoy the customer’s reac-tion when they see the finished product.

“At Show Me Blinds, we want to be your one-stop shop for all your custom window fash-ion needs,” he added. “When you shop with us, you will have one of the most recognized names in the window industry and reliable expertise – all provided with a local touch being privately owned and operated.”

Being the oldest Hunter Douglas Window Fashions Gallery in St. Louis has provided a solid foundation to weather these difficult times and even experience record growth.

Show Me is very proud to be a Kirkwood business because of the community support to buy local.

Starr credits a great part of the company’s success to Kirkwood-Webster customers who have entrusted his team to help beautify their homes and in return have given Show Me Blinds priceless word-of-mouth advertising and won-derful referrals.

Eric Oliphant, Bob Starr, and Delayna Adams

933 S. Kirkwood Road • Kirkwood • 314-909-1177www.showmeblinds.hdwfg.com

Specializing In Adult In-Home Care Since 1987

Seniors Home Care (SHC) is the profes-sional alternative for seniors who want the benefits of assisted living, but do not want to move out of their home. SHC, which now serves South County, has been providing in-home care to seniors in Webster Groves, Kirkwood, Clayton, Ladue and West County since 1987.

Caring for older adults is a way of life for Kit Whittington, R.N., B.S.N, and the founder of Seniors Home Care (SHC). Kit takes a personal interest in all her clients, meeting with each of them before carefully selecting a thoroughly screened staff member as their caregiver.

SHC provides much more than just basic assistance. Kit has designed her service around the true needs of the older popula-tion, with companionship, medication reminders, trans-portation, shopping, light housekeeping, cooking and personal care among the many services offered.

“I started SHC to provide a support sys-tem for older adults,” said Kit. “We allow individuals to stay in the comfort of their own homes and to maintain their independence. Our service is a reassurance to the adult chil-dren of seniors who find it difficult to raise their own families while trying to be support-ive caregivers to their elderly parents.”

SHC offers its clients flexibility, with care ranging from a 30-minute QuickVisit™ to 24-hour care seven days a week. Our live-in program is a cost-effective in-home service designed specifically for individuals requir-ing 24-hour care. A number of services are also offered to those in a nursing home, recovering from an illness, or who are hospi-

talized.“My goal is for older

adults to be able to live with dignity,” said Kit. “I believe Seniors Home Care provides seniors just that, through the kindness and respect we show them one client at a time.”

Mid County 314-962-2666 • Clayton/Ladue 314-863-2667South County 314-894-2666

Pictured (l to r) are: James Wetton, Cindy Plummer, Ryan Whittington, Kit Whittington, Mark Petty, and Rebecca Pavelka.

14-A Webster-Kirkwood Times January 30 - February 5, 2009

14Hometown Fam Biz

“Write For You” Life Stories: Your Autobiography In An Heirloom Book

Writing the story of one’s life for family members can be a daunting project that takes organization, skill, and time. That’s where Kathy Evans comes in. She will take the journey with a client, evoking his or her story through a series of interviews and putting it to paper, capturing the client’s voice and style.

She has written more than 25 books since starting her business, “Write for You” Life Stories LLC in 2001.

“I interview my clients in their homes, over a period of months, about the events, challenges, sorrows, and joys of their lives,” Evans said. “Between visits, I weave that week’s interview into the narrative, and the story grows, little by little.”

Her father, Reverend Richard Miller, researches genealogy for her clients if they wish.

Evans, a Kirkwood resi-dent with four children, scans photographs, documents, war medals, and sometimes even three-dimensional objects for use in her books.

“Often the client or the family will say that the pro-cess is what was the most

valuable to the person whose story I’m telling. The product is an heirloom book, a priceless gift to the family,” Evans said.

The client may order as many books as he or she wishes, available in both hardbound or soft cover.

Evans comes from the field of occupational therapy, but writing and hearing people’s stories have been her life-long interests.

“Though I loved occupational therapy, I was more interested in the stories of the people I worked with than in doing therapy with them,” she said. “I came to this business believing and knowing that every single person has a story. That story is the most precious gift a person can give to his children or grandchildren.”

To find out how to pursue a life story project with Evans, to see photos of her beautifully-

designed books, and to read testimonials from past clients, please visit her Web site at www.write foryoustl.com, or call her at 740-8859 to arrange for a free consultation to discuss your project.

Kathy Evans

life stories, llc

Your life, on paper

ph: (314)740 -8859 Kathy Evans, writer

Kirkwood • 314-740-8859 • www.writeforyoustl.com

In 1959 “The Twilight Zone” debuted on national television, Alaska and Hawaii became states, and pantyhose were intro-duced to women around the world.

Also in 1959 William Riggs, a master carpenter and craftsman, founded Kirkwood family business Riggs Construction & Design. A full service, design-build remodeling firm, Riggs helps homeowners update, modify and repair their homes to meet today’s lifestyles.

“There has been a lot of change in Kirkwood, Webster and the Greater St. Louis region in the last 50 years,” said Amie Riggs Swarts, vice president of the company. “Along with that change comes an ever-present need for fami-lies to re-evaluate their homes to determine how to make the home function better for their lifestyles.

Riggs walks homeowners through that process to address immediate needs, as well as to anticipate future needs.

Whether it’s a second-story

addition, a new kitchen, a relaxing master suite or a complete home remodel, all Riggs projects begin with a thorough design process that maps out each project from start to finish, and manages all selec-tions, budgets and decisions.

And what will the year 2009 mean for homeowners? According to Swarts, 2009 brings the best time to remodel in recent history.

“Interest rates are low, sense of com-munity is high, and the properties in our area are truly worth preserving,” said Swarts. “In a nutshell, now is the time to make the investment in your home, and Riggs can help you create the home you

need, stay on budget, and avoid the cost and hassle of moving.”

In February, Riggs Construction & Design will launch its remodeled Web site with tips for homeowners, proj-ect features and more. For more information, visit www.riggs-construction.com or call Swarts at 821-7646.

Amie, Tom, and Bill Riggs

Construction & Design

Building a Tradition

212 N. Clay • Kirkwood • 821-7646

Riggs Construction And Design Celebrates 50 Years In Kirkwood

Experience Housecleaning With“The Molly Maid Difference”

Charlie Willingham presents a donation to Sylvia Jackson, St. Louis Women’s Safe House director.

Charlie Willingham of Kirkwood brings over 25 years of experience in the residential house-cleaning business with Molly Maid of Mid County.

“As a local owner, I focus on providing out-standing service in the homes of area residents,” said Willingham. He lives in Kirkwood with Jessica, his wife of 20 years, and their two chil-dren, Emilie and Jake.

Molly Maid’s thorough cleaning process includes dusting baseboards, light fixtures, furni-ture, sills, shelves, blinds and décor; vacuuming/mopping all floors, carpets, rugs and stairs; clean-ing showers, tubs, toilets and sinks; cleaning, dry-ing and shining all mirrors, glass, counters, tile and appliance surfaces; and vacuuming or dusting all furniture, even under cushions.

It provides all equipment and supplies and uses only microfiber cloths, which are more expensive, but “well worth it.”

In addition to cleaning, Molly Maid offers profession-al carpet cleaning using the HOST dry extraction method, an exceptional product.

“We want to provide outstanding service time after time,” said Willingham. “That means we don’t charge an outrageous first fee. I come to the home and do a free, in-home estimate. The esti-mate provides the detail customers want, at the price that is affordable.” At Molly Maid, there are no contracts.

“We feel that as long as the customer is happy, we will get to come back,” Willingham said.

“Rest assured that each Molly Maid team is bonded, insured, and part of a nationwide network of cleaning professionals,” said Willingham. “We guarantee our work.”

To make a difference in the lives of abused women, Molly Maid, along with the Ms. Molly Foundation, is partnering with St. Louis Women’s Safe House, the oldest and largest domestic shelter in the St. Louis community. Locally, Molly Maid has raised over $2,500 for the St. Louis Women’s

Safe House. Call for a free in-home con-

sultation. Molly Maid will make the whole house sparkle.

11726 Manchester Rd. • Des Peres • 314-909-7070www.mollymaid.com

Matthew F. Strohmeyer D.D.S. Provides Caring Dentistry In Brentwood

The Family Dental Practice of Matthew F. Strohmeyer D.D.S. has grown since its April 2006 opening in Brentwood.

Dr. Strohmeyer offers comprehensive oral health care, including cosmetic procedures and patient education. He sees children of all ages, senior citizens and everyone in between.

“We are continually building on our solid foundation established three years ago,” Dr. Strohmeyer said. “We are always striving to offer the healthiest and highest quality dentistry. That means adding procedures, products and attention to detail that keep our patients happy and healthy.”

Dr. Strohmeyer’s wife, Jill, is the office bookkeeper. The staff also includes Ann Throm as officer manager, Receptionist Debbie Enright and Dental Assistant Natalie Evans.

Dr. Strohmeyer and his staff recently welcomed two new additions to the team: K. C. Crockwell as a register dental hygienist and Brittany Holdner as dental assistant.

The entire staff strives to make a patient’s experience as comfortable as possible.

Dr. Strohmeyer gains great

satisfaction from helping people feel and look better.

“Whether it is a routine checkup, painful emergency or a cosmetic procedure, all patients will leave feeling and looking better,” said Dr. Strohmeyer.

He also appreciates the referrals he gets from his patients.

“We care so much about our patients and provide them the best care possible,” he said. “Their referrals are both humbling and a testament to our efforts.”

Patients like the office’s relaxed, friendly atmosphere, plus the personal attention, the high quality of dentistry, honesty and attention to detail. Patients also tell Dr. Strohmeyer that they appreciate that they get most of their work completed at his office with very few referrals out.

L to R: Ann Throm, Brittany Holdner, Natalie Evans, Debbie Enright, K.C. Crockwell, Jill Srohmeyer, Matt Strohmeyer, Audrey Strohmeyer, Lucas Strohmeyer.

Matthew F. Strohmeyer, DDS, LLCFamily Dental Practice

Matthew F. Strohmeyer, DDS, LLCFamily Dental Practice

8764 Manchester, Ste. 200 • Brentwood • 314-968-2483