<h2>W.O.V.E. Academy: The Pillars of Excellence 8-Week Series</h2>
Empowering Missouri’s Next Generation through Character and Leadership.
Join Women of Virtue Emerging (W.O.V.E.) for a transformative 8-week journey starting May 13th, 2026 for young ladies 12+, at the John F. Kennedy Community Center in Florissant. This program is designed to provide participants with a roadmap for personal and civic success, grounded in our Four Pillars of Excellence:
<ul><li>Self-Worth: Developing a strong internal foundation and personal narrative.</li><li>Leadership: Building the skills to lead with integrity in our local communities.</li><li>Academic Excellence: Fostering a lifelong commitment to learning and growth.</li><li>Financial Literacy: Equipping participants with the tools for a stable and independent life.</li></ul>
Through engaging workshops and community connection, W.O.V.E. Academy bridges the gap between potential and purpose. Whether you are looking to strengthen your leadership skills or build practical life foundations, this series offers a supportive space to grow, connect, and excel.
Event Details:
<ul><li>When: Beginning Wednesday, May 13th, 2026 (8-week series)</li><li>Where: John F. Kennedy Community Center, Florissant, MO</li><li>Focus: Youth Empowerment &amp; Leadership Development</li></ul>
Together, we are weaving a stronger future for our community.

Local Event: W.O.V.E. Academy: An 8-Week Series on Character and Leadership

St. Louis County

Florissant

Missouri

W.O.V.E. Academy: An 8-Week Series on Character...

W.O.V.E. Academy: The Pillars of Excellence 8-Week Series
Empowering Missouri’s Next Generation through Character and...

W.O.V.E. Academy: An 8-Week Series on Character and Leadership

Various Private Gardens in the Metro Area

<h1>Pond-O-Rama 2026: St. Louis Water Garden Society’s 26th Annual Water Garden Tour</h1>
Experience the Wonders of St. Louis’s Water Gardens!
The St. Louis Water Garden Society (SLWGS) celebrates 36 years of fostering water gardening through education, community service, and resource sharing. This year, we invite you to join our 26th annual Pond-O-Rama tour—a unique opportunity to explore the region’s most captivating private water gardens and ponds, each lovingly designed and maintained by our dedicated members.
<h2>Event Details</h2>
<ul>
 <li>Dates: Saturday, June 27 &amp; Sunday, June 28, 2026</li>
 <li>Time: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. each day</li>
 <li>Format: Self-guided tour, with different gardens featured each day, organized by geographic location throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area.</li>
</ul>
<h2>What Awaits You in the Gardens</h2>
·A Diverse Array of Water Features: Discover gardens ranging from intimate backyard retreats to expansive landscapes. Each garden is unique—some are newly created, while others have matured over years, showcasing the evolution of water gardening in St. Louis.
<ul>
 <ul>
 <li>Ponds: See koi and goldfish ponds of all sizes, from small bubbling pools to large, multi-level water habitats.</li>
 <li>Waterfalls &amp; Streams:
 Experience the soothing sounds and sights of cascading waterfalls, gentle streams, and bubbling brooks integrated into lush plantings.</li>
 <li>Bridges &amp; Gazebos:
 Walk over charming bridges and relax in gazebos nestled among flowering aquatic plants and vibrant greenery.</li>
 <li>Statues &amp; Decorative Elements: Admire artistic touches—statues, fountains, and ornamental features that add character and whimsy to each garden.</li>
 <li>Native &amp; Exotic Plantings: Explore gardens certified by the Audubon Society’s Bring Conservation Home program, featuring native Missouri plants alongside exotic water lilies, lotus, and rare aquatic specimens.</li>
 <li>Wildlife &amp; Conservation: Many gardens are designed to attract birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects, creating thriving habitats for local wildlife.</li>
 </ul>
</ul>
·Expert Hosts &amp; Inspiration: Meet hosts who are Master Gardeners, conservation advocates, and passionate water garden designers. Many have been featured in St. Louis Homes and Lifestyle magazine and local publications. They are eager to share their expertise, answer questions, and offer tips for creating your own water feature.
·Accessibility &amp; Guidance: Your ticket includes a full-color guidebook with photos, garden descriptions, directions, accessibility notes, and QR codes for easy navigation. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just beginning, you’ll find inspiration and practical ideas for every space and budget.
·Volunteer Opportunities: 
Enjoy a behind the scene experience by volunteering to welcome guests on the tour. “Assist the garden host by answering questions, directing visitors, and assisting participants.” In appreciation, volunteers will receive a complimentary tour ticket. 
<h2>Ticket Information</h2>
<ul>
 <li>Price: $25 per person (ages 18 and older), covering both days of the tour.</li>
 <li>Group Discount:
 Special rate of $20 per person for groups of five or more.</li>
 <li>Availability: Tickets go on sale in May at local retail shops, garden centers, and online at https://slwgs.org.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Supporting Our Community</h2>
Proceeds from Pond-O-Rama help fund our civic project: the planting and maintenance of the elegant lily ponds at the Jewel Box in Forest Park. SLWGS members work weekly from May to October to ensure these ponds remain a serene highlight for all Forest Park visitors.
<h2>Contact Us</h2>
For more information, please reach out to:
Virginia (Ginny) Mueller, Publicity 
 Phone: (314) 808-7000\ Email: <a href="mailto:vcmueller16@gmail.com">vcmueller16@gmail.com</a>
We look forward to welcoming you to Pond-O-Rama 2026—where every garden tells a story and inspiration is around every corner!

Local Event: 26th Annual St Louis Water Garden Society Pond-O-Rama Tour

26th Annual St Louis Water Garden Society...

Pond-O-Rama 2026: St. Louis Water Garden Society’s 26th Annual Water Garden Tour
Experience the Wonders of St. Louis’s Water...

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Events and Things to Do in Florissant, MO

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Please confirm event details with the organizers before attending

Wednesday, May 13

Saturday, June 27