| Fashion News Missouri |
Building industry 'red-hot' for green projects
By - 12/24/2007
Springfield Business Journal Staff
Americans are paying more attention to environmental issues, and as green building catches on across the country, southwest Missouri builders and
developers are providing opportunities for and examples of environmentally friendly construction.
On Dec. 10 in Oslo, Norway, former Vice President Al Gore and the panel chief for the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
accepted the Nobel Peace Prize for their combined efforts on global climate-change research. Earlier this year, Gore won an Academy Award for his
critically acclaimed documentary, “An Inconvenient Truth,” a film highlighting the global climate crisis.
The U.S. House of Representatives, on Dec. 6, passed the Energy Independence and Security Act, a measure that in part states: “Buildings shall be
designed so that the fossil fuel-generated energy consumption of buildings is reduced, as compared with such energy consumption by a similar
building in fiscal 2003 by percentages that start at 55 percent in 2010 and incrementally increase to 100 percent by 2030.
This piece of legislation is significant because it begins to address global climate change at the most fundamental level – buildings. The U.S. Energy
Information Administration estimates that buildings are responsible for 48 percent of all energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in the
nation. Fortunately, progress toward meeting this challenge head-on is being made, as the construction industry is red-hot with a focus on green
building. Interest is fueled from all angles, including savvy developers, conscientious architects and trade journals. Look at any trade journal, from
Architectural Record to School Construction News and even This Old House, and you are guaranteed to find green building as a feature article or
possibly the subject of an entirely new section.
Even movie stars are turning into sustainable developers. On Dec. 10, Springfield native Brad Pitt unveiled 13 plans from well-known architects as
the initial step to rebuild a devastated neighborhood in New Orleans. Pitt’s Make It Right project seeks to rebuild 150 homes as sustainable
dwellings.
Nobody is working the green building scene more than materials and product manufacturers. Fueled in part by the demands made by architects and
engineers who specify their products, there are those, such as Interface – one of the world’s largest carpet manufacturers – leading by example. The
key with manufacturers’ literature is being knowledgeable enough to know just how green it is.
The explosion in interest for green building may be due more in part to the market penetration of green building and product certification programs,
such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, GreenGlobes, McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry LLC’s Cradle to Cradle
Certification and Greenguard, than the recognition that buildings are the “hidden culprit” in the climate crisis. As an example, LEED’s impact during
its short eight-year history has been staggering.
Currently, there are more than 9,000 projects registered to pursue LEED certification (roughly 2.7 billion square feet), with nearly 5,175 registered
within the past year alone, according to Laura Walsh, education program planner with the U.S. Green Building Council. Also, the number of LEED-
accredited professionals has grown to more than 42,000.
Springfield, once arguably indifferent to the opportunities that green building offers, now boasts a growing list of green building projects that may
be setting the pace for the entire Ozarks region, if not Missouri.
Southwest Missouri’s first certified green building, Discovery Center of Springfield achieved LEED Gold certification in April. The number of
projects seeking LEED certification has grown substantially to include Watershed Center, Botanical Center, Green Circle Shopping Center, Cycles
Unlimited, White River Valley Electric, the Emerald Building and even a sustainable home for Habitat for Humanity being designed and built by
Drury University. LEED for Schools certification is being sought for the new Hickory Hills Elementary/Middle School.
There are numerous additional projects that, while not officially seeking certification, are incorporating sustainable design strategies such as the
Home Builders Association of Greater Springfield’s new offices, Terra Green, a new office park development, Askinosie Chocolate Factory and a
number of private residences in the area. Companies such as Innoviro, which distributes only innovative environmentally responsible building
products, and Meek’s, with the ability to supply Forest Stewardship Council-certified lumber, have increased the availability of green building
products in the Springfield area.
The green building movement appears to be more than a seasonal fashion trend; rather, it is the future of our built environment.
Fashion boutique opens in Fulton, offering unique designs and more
By KIMBERLY LONG
The Fulton Sun
Gabrielle Harrison is not a name that a lot of people know - yet - but the young entrepreneur hopes soon to become a household name
among area women.
The Columbia native opened Gabrielle Gifts, Fashion and Gallery in May, located in a suite just off of St. Eunice Road and U.S.
Business 54 in Fulton.
Similar in style to a small boutique, her privately-owned business offers more than just apparel.
“I carry gift-y stuff,” said Harrison. “Like clothing, artwork, jewelry and other accessories that are mainly geared to college-age girls.”
Harrison said business hasn't been as thriving as she anticipated, but she feels once the word gets out, more customers will come.
“Even though I've advertised, many are just now finding out that I'm here,” Harrison said. “However, those who have visited, are repeat
customers and seem excited about what I carry.”
Harrison said she chose Fulton for her first business venture to be near family, and - more importantly - because the area lacked a
business that caters specifically to females.
“I was surprised at what little in the clothing line is offered here, especially with the two colleges being here,” Harrison said. Given
that, she added, “Fulton seemed the ideal location.”
Her inventory includes David and Goliath novelty tees, Murival of Paris, Sara Blakely undergarments, hand-dyed silk dresses, jewelry
by local and New York artists and body lotions by Rider Girl Day Spa.
She also carries jackets, wraps, coats and scarves to fit every outfit.
“We have plenty of unique and adorable things,” Harrison said. “And I purposely never keep too many of things on hand.
“That way, no one will have to worry about seeing a lot of other people wearing what they have.”
Harrison also houses consignments by local artists and pottery and jewelry makers.
“It took customers a while to notice that the artwork was for sale. Many thought it was a part of the decor,” Harrison said. “I'm open to
all types of art as long as it's done in quality.”
Harrison comes from a family of entrepreneurs, who all own their businesses - and she simply followed suit.
She graduated in 2004 from Stephens College in Columbia with a bachelor's degree in fashion design and product development, and
while attending college set up a web site, selling horseback suits.
At 27, Harrison's long-term goal is to open a chain of suites throughout central Missouri.
“My mother was a fashion marketing major, so I got my fashion influence from her,” said Harrison. “My hopes are to expand, but that
will depend on how well I do here.”
Fashion notes
COMPILED BY KAREN DEER
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
Saturday, Dec. 01 2007
HOLIDAY TEA
A holiday tea with Catwalk Fashion Entertainment is planned for noon Friday at
the Ladies of Lucerne Tea Room, 930 Kehrs Mill Road in Ballwin. Enjoy a holiday
story set to music told by narration, vintage fashions and dance. A four-course
tea will be served.
TICKET PRICE — $40 (reservations required)
MORE INFORMATION — 636-227-7300
FASHION FAIR
The 50th Annual Ebony Fashion Fair, the world's largest traveling fashion show,
comes to the Ferrara Theatre at America's Center, 701 Convention Plaza at 8
p.m. Dec. 8. Attendees at this "Glam Odyssey: A Fashion Journey Into Bliss &
Beyond" will relive five decades of fashion. .
TICKET PRICE — $35-$250, includes a one-year subscription to Ebony magazine or
a six-month subscription to Jet magazine. The show raises scholarship funds
distibuted by the Urban League.
MORE INFORMATION — Call the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis,
314-615-3668.
SHOPPING EVENT
The Foundry Art Centre, 520 North Main Center in Historic St. Charles, will
offer hand-crafted gift items from more than 25 artists during "The Big Red
Box" holiday shopping event through Sunday. The event will be held from 10 a.m.
to 5 p.m. today and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday in the Grand Hall. The event features
unique art and gift items for sale by "Best of Missouri Hands" artists.
Holiday Happenings
Wednesday, December 12, 2007 3:21 AM CST
Now through Dec 24
Shop at the Holiday Zootique at the St. Louis Zoo in The Living World from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. for unique gift ideas, ornaments and
much more. For more information, call (314) 781-0900, ext. 333.Now through Dec. 30
CHRISTMAS TRAIN DISPLAY: A model replica train winds its way through a 400-square-foot display from 5 to 8 p.m. Fridays, noon to
5 p.m. Sundays or by appointment through Dec. 30 at the Frenchtown Heritage Museum and Research Center, 1121 N. Second St. in St.
Charles. $2 for adults, $1 for children 3 to 12. Proceeds benefit the museum. Information: 636-946-8682.
Now through Jan. 1, 2008
Holiday wreath exhibition at the Missouri Botanical Garden features unique creations by some of the area’s finest floral designers. 9 a.
m. to 5 p.m. Ridgway Center. Included with Garden admission or membership. All wreaths are sold through a silent auction, with
proceeds benefiting the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Now through Dec. 31
Tower Grove House, Garden founder Henry Shaw’s Victorian country home, is decked out for the holidays with wreaths, mantle
garland swags and centerpieces of seasonal flowers and greens. Mr. Shaw’s Christmas tree is dressed with timepieces and roses, his
favorite flower, and a holiday repast is set for his guests. Younger visitors are urged to look for the hiding house cat. Open Tuesday
through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday 1 to 4 p.m. Included with Garden admission.
Now through Jan. 1, 2008
"Gardenland Express: Wilderness Escape" at the Missouri Botanical Garden is an annual holiday flower and train show. Model G-scale
trains travel through a miniature landscape of living plants surrounded by mountains, forests and great historic lodges of America’s
National Parks. Hundreds of fresh poinsettias and flowers surround the scene. A favorite holiday activity for all ages. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
daily. Open until 8 p.m. Dec. 26 through 28. Ridgway Center. Garden admission plus $3. Free for members.
Now through Dec. 23
Christmas Traditions on Main Street in St. Charles. Various activities, free. www.stcharleschristmas.com.
Now through Dec. 24
Holiday Night Lights, Rotary Park, Wentzville. 6-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 6-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday; Walk-Through Night, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 10. $7 car, $1 person for busses/vans with more than seven passengers.
Now through Dec, 23
Christmas Train Display, Frenchtown Heritage Museum and Research Center, 1121 N. Second St., St. Charles. 5-8 p.m. Friday; noon-5
p.m. Saturday-Sunday or by appointment. $2 adults, $1 children age 3-12. 636-946-8682.
Now through Dec. 30
Celebration of Lights, Fort Zumwalt Park, O’Fallon. 6:30-9 p.m. Sunday, Tuesday-Thursday; 6:30-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday; Walk-
Through Night, 6-9 p.m. Dec. 11; Closed Dec. 24-25. $9/vehicle, $15/large (15 passenger) van, $1 per person/ bus ($25 minimum), $7
Tuesdays, $1 off with canned food or toy donation.
Now through Jan. 1
Celebrate the Holiday Season with lights and a holiday display at the MKT Depot in Frontier Park in St. Charles. www.
stcharleschristmas.com.
By - 12/24/2007
Springfield Business Journal Staff
Americans are paying more attention to environmental issues, and as green building catches on across the country, southwest Missouri builders and
developers are providing opportunities for and examples of environmentally friendly construction.
On Dec. 10 in Oslo, Norway, former Vice President Al Gore and the panel chief for the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
accepted the Nobel Peace Prize for their combined efforts on global climate-change research. Earlier this year, Gore won an Academy Award for his
critically acclaimed documentary, “An Inconvenient Truth,” a film highlighting the global climate crisis.
The U.S. House of Representatives, on Dec. 6, passed the Energy Independence and Security Act, a measure that in part states: “Buildings shall be
designed so that the fossil fuel-generated energy consumption of buildings is reduced, as compared with such energy consumption by a similar
building in fiscal 2003 by percentages that start at 55 percent in 2010 and incrementally increase to 100 percent by 2030.
This piece of legislation is significant because it begins to address global climate change at the most fundamental level – buildings. The U.S. Energy
Information Administration estimates that buildings are responsible for 48 percent of all energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in the
nation. Fortunately, progress toward meeting this challenge head-on is being made, as the construction industry is red-hot with a focus on green
building. Interest is fueled from all angles, including savvy developers, conscientious architects and trade journals. Look at any trade journal, from
Architectural Record to School Construction News and even This Old House, and you are guaranteed to find green building as a feature article or
possibly the subject of an entirely new section.
Even movie stars are turning into sustainable developers. On Dec. 10, Springfield native Brad Pitt unveiled 13 plans from well-known architects as
the initial step to rebuild a devastated neighborhood in New Orleans. Pitt’s Make It Right project seeks to rebuild 150 homes as sustainable
dwellings.
Nobody is working the green building scene more than materials and product manufacturers. Fueled in part by the demands made by architects and
engineers who specify their products, there are those, such as Interface – one of the world’s largest carpet manufacturers – leading by example. The
key with manufacturers’ literature is being knowledgeable enough to know just how green it is.
The explosion in interest for green building may be due more in part to the market penetration of green building and product certification programs,
such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, GreenGlobes, McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry LLC’s Cradle to Cradle
Certification and Greenguard, than the recognition that buildings are the “hidden culprit” in the climate crisis. As an example, LEED’s impact during
its short eight-year history has been staggering.
Currently, there are more than 9,000 projects registered to pursue LEED certification (roughly 2.7 billion square feet), with nearly 5,175 registered
within the past year alone, according to Laura Walsh, education program planner with the U.S. Green Building Council. Also, the number of LEED-
accredited professionals has grown to more than 42,000.
Springfield, once arguably indifferent to the opportunities that green building offers, now boasts a growing list of green building projects that may
be setting the pace for the entire Ozarks region, if not Missouri.
Southwest Missouri’s first certified green building, Discovery Center of Springfield achieved LEED Gold certification in April. The number of
projects seeking LEED certification has grown substantially to include Watershed Center, Botanical Center, Green Circle Shopping Center, Cycles
Unlimited, White River Valley Electric, the Emerald Building and even a sustainable home for Habitat for Humanity being designed and built by
Drury University. LEED for Schools certification is being sought for the new Hickory Hills Elementary/Middle School.
There are numerous additional projects that, while not officially seeking certification, are incorporating sustainable design strategies such as the
Home Builders Association of Greater Springfield’s new offices, Terra Green, a new office park development, Askinosie Chocolate Factory and a
number of private residences in the area. Companies such as Innoviro, which distributes only innovative environmentally responsible building
products, and Meek’s, with the ability to supply Forest Stewardship Council-certified lumber, have increased the availability of green building
products in the Springfield area.
The green building movement appears to be more than a seasonal fashion trend; rather, it is the future of our built environment.
Fashion boutique opens in Fulton, offering unique designs and more
By KIMBERLY LONG
The Fulton Sun
Gabrielle Harrison is not a name that a lot of people know - yet - but the young entrepreneur hopes soon to become a household name
among area women.
The Columbia native opened Gabrielle Gifts, Fashion and Gallery in May, located in a suite just off of St. Eunice Road and U.S.
Business 54 in Fulton.
Similar in style to a small boutique, her privately-owned business offers more than just apparel.
“I carry gift-y stuff,” said Harrison. “Like clothing, artwork, jewelry and other accessories that are mainly geared to college-age girls.”
Harrison said business hasn't been as thriving as she anticipated, but she feels once the word gets out, more customers will come.
“Even though I've advertised, many are just now finding out that I'm here,” Harrison said. “However, those who have visited, are repeat
customers and seem excited about what I carry.”
Harrison said she chose Fulton for her first business venture to be near family, and - more importantly - because the area lacked a
business that caters specifically to females.
“I was surprised at what little in the clothing line is offered here, especially with the two colleges being here,” Harrison said. Given
that, she added, “Fulton seemed the ideal location.”
Her inventory includes David and Goliath novelty tees, Murival of Paris, Sara Blakely undergarments, hand-dyed silk dresses, jewelry
by local and New York artists and body lotions by Rider Girl Day Spa.
She also carries jackets, wraps, coats and scarves to fit every outfit.
“We have plenty of unique and adorable things,” Harrison said. “And I purposely never keep too many of things on hand.
“That way, no one will have to worry about seeing a lot of other people wearing what they have.”
Harrison also houses consignments by local artists and pottery and jewelry makers.
“It took customers a while to notice that the artwork was for sale. Many thought it was a part of the decor,” Harrison said. “I'm open to
all types of art as long as it's done in quality.”
Harrison comes from a family of entrepreneurs, who all own their businesses - and she simply followed suit.
She graduated in 2004 from Stephens College in Columbia with a bachelor's degree in fashion design and product development, and
while attending college set up a web site, selling horseback suits.
At 27, Harrison's long-term goal is to open a chain of suites throughout central Missouri.
“My mother was a fashion marketing major, so I got my fashion influence from her,” said Harrison. “My hopes are to expand, but that
will depend on how well I do here.”
Fashion notes
COMPILED BY KAREN DEER
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
Saturday, Dec. 01 2007
HOLIDAY TEA
A holiday tea with Catwalk Fashion Entertainment is planned for noon Friday at
the Ladies of Lucerne Tea Room, 930 Kehrs Mill Road in Ballwin. Enjoy a holiday
story set to music told by narration, vintage fashions and dance. A four-course
tea will be served.
TICKET PRICE — $40 (reservations required)
MORE INFORMATION — 636-227-7300
FASHION FAIR
The 50th Annual Ebony Fashion Fair, the world's largest traveling fashion show,
comes to the Ferrara Theatre at America's Center, 701 Convention Plaza at 8
p.m. Dec. 8. Attendees at this "Glam Odyssey: A Fashion Journey Into Bliss &
Beyond" will relive five decades of fashion. .
TICKET PRICE — $35-$250, includes a one-year subscription to Ebony magazine or
a six-month subscription to Jet magazine. The show raises scholarship funds
distibuted by the Urban League.
MORE INFORMATION — Call the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis,
314-615-3668.
SHOPPING EVENT
The Foundry Art Centre, 520 North Main Center in Historic St. Charles, will
offer hand-crafted gift items from more than 25 artists during "The Big Red
Box" holiday shopping event through Sunday. The event will be held from 10 a.m.
to 5 p.m. today and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday in the Grand Hall. The event features
unique art and gift items for sale by "Best of Missouri Hands" artists.
Holiday Happenings
Wednesday, December 12, 2007 3:21 AM CST
Now through Dec 24
Shop at the Holiday Zootique at the St. Louis Zoo in The Living World from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. for unique gift ideas, ornaments and
much more. For more information, call (314) 781-0900, ext. 333.Now through Dec. 30
CHRISTMAS TRAIN DISPLAY: A model replica train winds its way through a 400-square-foot display from 5 to 8 p.m. Fridays, noon to
5 p.m. Sundays or by appointment through Dec. 30 at the Frenchtown Heritage Museum and Research Center, 1121 N. Second St. in St.
Charles. $2 for adults, $1 for children 3 to 12. Proceeds benefit the museum. Information: 636-946-8682.
Now through Jan. 1, 2008
Holiday wreath exhibition at the Missouri Botanical Garden features unique creations by some of the area’s finest floral designers. 9 a.
m. to 5 p.m. Ridgway Center. Included with Garden admission or membership. All wreaths are sold through a silent auction, with
proceeds benefiting the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Now through Dec. 31
Tower Grove House, Garden founder Henry Shaw’s Victorian country home, is decked out for the holidays with wreaths, mantle
garland swags and centerpieces of seasonal flowers and greens. Mr. Shaw’s Christmas tree is dressed with timepieces and roses, his
favorite flower, and a holiday repast is set for his guests. Younger visitors are urged to look for the hiding house cat. Open Tuesday
through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday 1 to 4 p.m. Included with Garden admission.
Now through Jan. 1, 2008
"Gardenland Express: Wilderness Escape" at the Missouri Botanical Garden is an annual holiday flower and train show. Model G-scale
trains travel through a miniature landscape of living plants surrounded by mountains, forests and great historic lodges of America’s
National Parks. Hundreds of fresh poinsettias and flowers surround the scene. A favorite holiday activity for all ages. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
daily. Open until 8 p.m. Dec. 26 through 28. Ridgway Center. Garden admission plus $3. Free for members.
Now through Dec. 23
Christmas Traditions on Main Street in St. Charles. Various activities, free. www.stcharleschristmas.com.
Now through Dec. 24
Holiday Night Lights, Rotary Park, Wentzville. 6-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 6-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday; Walk-Through Night, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 10. $7 car, $1 person for busses/vans with more than seven passengers.
Now through Dec, 23
Christmas Train Display, Frenchtown Heritage Museum and Research Center, 1121 N. Second St., St. Charles. 5-8 p.m. Friday; noon-5
p.m. Saturday-Sunday or by appointment. $2 adults, $1 children age 3-12. 636-946-8682.
Now through Dec. 30
Celebration of Lights, Fort Zumwalt Park, O’Fallon. 6:30-9 p.m. Sunday, Tuesday-Thursday; 6:30-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday; Walk-
Through Night, 6-9 p.m. Dec. 11; Closed Dec. 24-25. $9/vehicle, $15/large (15 passenger) van, $1 per person/ bus ($25 minimum), $7
Tuesdays, $1 off with canned food or toy donation.
Now through Jan. 1
Celebrate the Holiday Season with lights and a holiday display at the MKT Depot in Frontier Park in St. Charles. www.
stcharleschristmas.com.
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