ICE CARNIVAL

 

Tle Loop is a stretch of Delmar Boulevard reaching across the city limits into University City, so-named because it includes a large part of Washington University, one of the country’s top schools. Years ago, the trolley cars coming out of the city turned around at a track loop at the end of the strip. Now it is full of interesting restaurants, stores and bars. They have an ice carnival every January, more about which to come.

The restaurant, bar and performance venue Blueberry Hill is the anchor. St. Louisan Chuck Berry performed there frequently. We’ll see Chuck tomorrow.                     

Hail Hail

Everyone knows by now that Chuck Berry died Saturday at 90. He was born and lived most of his life in St. Louis (he actually had a bit of an estate in the outer suburbs). 

He still performed from time to time at Blueberry Hill, the bar-restaurant-showroom across the street from his statue. That was dedicated in 2011. My passing acquaintance with Harry Weber, the sculptor, got me into the reception at Blueberry Hill where I took the picture in this link. We last heard him perform in the amphitheater at the botanical garden back in 2009 when he was still knocking it out at age 82.

My interests have gone well past rock and roll but his music still brings me joy.

              

 

Cake Boss

Another work in progress. Artist April Morrison (an actual pastry chef) works on a design for Francis Field at Washington University. The 1904 Summer Olympics were held there. We had the World's Fair the same year. We used to be somebody.

The cake in the foreground of the second picture celebrates the St. Louis Walk Of Fame along the Delmar Loop in University City. The list of inductees contains names you wouldn't associate with The Lou. Betty Grable is from here! And Phyllis Diller! The middle cake refers to Joe Edwards, the unofficial mayor of The Loop, and his celebrated bar, restaurant and performance venue, Blueberry Hill. 87 year old St. Louisan Chuck Berry still performs there regularly.