Rising River

After our wet 'n' wild spring, most of us are tired of hearing about flood waters, high crests and all the mud and muck left to clean up. Wouldn't it be nice to concentrate instead on all the reasons we love our rivers? (Think of float trips, grilled rainbow trout and paddle boats.) The people at the Open Space Council for the St. Louis Region believe so, especially when the river in question is the marvelous Meramec. Once horribly degraded, the Meramec River has been revitalized over the past 40 years by the combined efforts of volunteers, conservationists and ecologists. Meramec River: Miracles and Milestones, a documentary film that recounts and celebrates the Meramec's return to glory, receives its world premiere tonight at 7 p.m. at the Sheldon Concert Hall (3648 Washington Boulevard). The evening begins with performances by local musicians and storytellers, many of whom have contributed original works to the album River Opera, which will be available for purchase. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $35 for the VIP treatment, which includes a meet-and-greet catered reception. For more information or to reserve tickets, visit www.openspacecouncilstl.org or call 636-334-3035.
Thu., May 1, 2008