Editors' Note: According to etymologists, the name of our month of February is derived from the Latin word fēbruum, which means to purge or cleanse. Some say it has its origins in the month-long Roman festival of purification and atonement known as Februalia. In true chicken-or-the-egg fashion, it could also be that the Roman feast was named after the month.
 
Regardless, it always good to do a little pre-Spring cleaning. Whether it be your garage, basement, body, mind, or soul, we all have unwanted or unneeded items that can be moved out of our lives. As in Roman times, February still brings us opportunities to celebrate with Mardi Gras festivals and reflect with the onset of Lent. In this cleansing season, be assured that finally making the decision to get rid of some things that you are better off without can really instigate a re-prioritization—and help focus us on the core things that really are worth holding on to and free us from things that aren’t. As Sheryl Crow sang, “It's not having what you want. It's wanting what you've got.”
 
In the mood to purge? See the feature below on Warson Woods’ own Ditto.

Question:  Did you see the forecast for tonight?  
Answer: No, but I know it'll be dark outside!

Dad joke aside, it can certainly be dark on our streets at night so it's important to make yourself visible to drivers and other pedestrians. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and visible:

1. Wear bright or reflective clothing: Dress in bright, reflective clothing that can be easily seen by drivers.

2. Use reflective accessories: Wear reflective accessories like a reflective vest or LED armbands to make yourself more visible.

3. Carry a flashlight: Use a flashlight to illuminate the ground in front of you, and to signal your presence to drivers and pedestrians.

4. Walk facing traffic: We don't have many sidewalks so be sure to walk facing traffic, so that drivers can see you.

5. Avoid distractions: Avoid using your phone or wearing headphones while out at night. Stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.

By taking these precautions, you can greatly increase your visibility and reduce your risk of accidents while walking at night on dark streets.

You may have walked or driven by it a hundred times but have never taken the time to explore Ditto Family Resale. Whether you are looking to declutter or looking for a deal, it’s time to venture into this Warson Woods treasure located between Breadsmith and Dollar Tree.  

Ditto was founded in 2012 by eight schools in an effort to raise money to defray tuition costs. More than $2 million in financial aid has been raised from sales of donated items to help families at Central Christian School, Covenant Christian School, Heritage Classical Christian Academy, Kirk Day School, Promise Christian Academy, South City Community School, Twin Oaks Christian School, and Westminster Christian Academy. A portion of all sales goes to grants that can be given to any school in the St. Louis area. Six thousand dollars in grants will be awarded in 2023.  

“New merchandise arrives on a daily basis, and you never know what you will find. From gently used clothes to furniture, dishes and décor, there is something for everyone,” says Deborah Shields, the store’s general manager. Donations come from the local community as well as estate sale companies. 

When asked about interesting donations Shields mentioned a recent donation of vintage Goetz twin dolls that were in total disrepair. “They were not suitable to sell in the store so they were listed on eBay. It turns out the mold for the first American Girl Dolls’ faces were based on the mold of those dolls. You would never expect that two old dolls with their arms and legs barely intact would generate $1,750 for the store,” says Shields.  

A few years ago the store expanded offering a boutique section of the store for those seeking higher ender clothing, shoes, jewelry, and accessories.  

Donations are accepted Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm at a dedicated Donation Drop-Off behind the building. For a map of this area, click here. To see a list of everything that Ditto will accept Click here. If you would like to donate furniture, please call the store at 314-394-2026 to arrange or email to get on the schedule for the monthly furniture donation pickups. 

Pro Tip - Every Monday: High school and college students, shoppers aged 55 and older, and U.S. military of any age (veterans, active military, national guard, reserves) receive 20% off their clothing and shoe purchase! Must mention discount at checkout. Must present valid student ID. 

A big thank you to Krissy Fonke and Christine Sarmiento for volunteering to coordinate the Tuesday food trucks! Get excited to join us at Royal Oak pavilion to enjoy some food and live music - exact dates will be forthcoming!

Finance Committee Meetings

Thursday, March 2, 2023 - 7:00pm
Thursday, March 16, 2023 - 7:00pm
Thursday April 13, 2023 - 7:00pm
Thursday, April 20, 2023 - 7:00pm
Thursday, April 27, 2023 - 7:00pm
Thursday, May 11, 2023 - 7:00pm
Tuesday, May 16, 2023 - 7:00pm
Tuesday, June 20, 2023 - 7:00pm
Friday, July 14, 2023 - 7:00pm
Thursday October 12, 2023 - 7:00pm
Thursday January 11, 2024 - 7:00pm


Board of Alderpeople Meeting

Tuesday, February 21, 2023 - 7:00pm

Zoom Meeting ID: 892 5846 4953
Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89258464953
View agenda, zoom, link and minutes from the last board meeting here.

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