Number 377 May 22, 2026 St. Louis
The Rize Event Center: Where Community, Culture, and Celebration Come Alive
Located in the heart of North St. Louis County, The Rize Event Center has evolved into more than just a venue; it has become a unique experience. Founded by Elizabeth Mitchell, The Rize was envisioned as a place to unite people through celebration, creativity, entertainment, and culture. Today, it is recognized as one of the area’s most vibrant and versatile destinations for unforgettable events and experiences.
From the moment guests walk through the doors, The Rize offers an atmosphere that feels both elevated and welcoming. Whether it’s a wedding reception, corporate event, banquet, repass, networking event, live performance, or private celebration, the venue creates an experience that leaves a lasting impression. With seating for up to 150 guests, professional sound capabilities, a full stage production setup, and catering accommodations, The Rize has everything needed to transform an ordinary event into something truly memorable.
What makes The Rize stand apart is its unique blend of entertainment, hospitality, and community connection. Through “The Rize Stage,” guests experience live jazz nights, open mic showcases, immersive storytelling productions, and interactive mystery dinner theatre performances such as Who Killed Benny? and The Blue Note. These productions create an energy that keeps audiences engaged, entertained, and coming back for more.
Elizabeth Mitchell’s background in education, leadership, and nonprofit management helped shape The Rize into a place that serves both people and purpose. A graduate of Maryville University and the University of Missouri–St. Louis, she built The Rize with the belief that great spaces should not only host events — they should create opportunities, inspire creativity, and strengthen communities.
That vision extends beyond entertainment. The Rize also supports local entrepreneurs and culinary creatives by offering access to a professional commercial kitchen and commissary rental opportunities, helping caterers, chefs, and food startups grow their businesses in a high-quality environment.
The impact of The Rize has been significant. In 2026, The Rize Event Center & Catering was honored with the “Best of 2026 Award” for Event Venue in the Airport Township area, thanks to strong community support and excellent Google Reviews. This recognition reflects what guests have already experienced: The Rize offers professionalism, creativity, hospitality, and memorable experiences that last long after the event concludes.
The Rize Event Center is more than just a venue; it provides an atmosphere where moments matter. With its blend of culture, elegance, and community spirit, The Rize has become a top choice in North St. Louis County for hosting memorable events.
Let’s Celebrate Our Graduates!
After nearly four years of balancing seminary studies with his leadership role at SITO, Jeff Buck reached an important milestone on May 2 when he graduated from the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity degree. I recently spoke with Jeff about his journey through seminary, the challenges of balancing work and education, and what comes next in his ministry path.
Jeff shared that pursuing a degree through one of the ten official theological seminaries of the Presbyterian Church (USA) was a decision he carefully considered while continuing his work as Executive Director of SITO.
“I’ve been working on the degree for nearly four years while also leading SITO,” Jeff explained. “The online format gave me the flexibility I needed to continue serving the organization while pursuing theological training.”
Although much of the coursework was completed remotely, Jeff said some of the most impactful moments came during the annual on-campus sessions held each August.
“For three years, I spent two weeks on campus,” he told me. “That time allowed me to meet professors in person and build strong friendships with students from around the country. Those relationships became an important part of the experience.”
When I asked Jeff what stood out most about the program, he emphasized the strength of the education and the support he received throughout his studies.
“I believe UDTS has a very strong program,” he said. “I’m very satisfied that I chose this path for my theological training.”
As part of the seminary program, Jeff was also required to complete an internship at a local church. He spent two semesters serving at Grace Presbyterian Church, an experience that eventually opened the door to a new opportunity in ministry.
“This spring, Grace Presbyterian Church hired me as Director of Ministry,” Jeff shared. “Now that I’ve graduated, they’re moving forward with calling me to serve as their next pastor on a part-time basis.”
Hearing Jeff reflect on this journey, it’s clear that his commitment to service extends far beyond his professional work. Whether through community development at SITO or ministry within the church, his passion for helping others continues to guide the next chapter of his leadership journey.
We are also excited about all our graduates!
This graduation season fills many of us with excitement and joy, while others may be left wondering, “Where did the time go?” I would like to take a moment to acknowledge some incredible achievements within the Justine PETERSEN family. From high school graduations to advanced degrees, these milestones reflect years of hard work, dedication, and promising new beginnings.
Brianna Chandler (bottom left)
Congratulations are also for Brianna Chandler, daughter of our very own Solomon Chandler! 🎓 Brianna recently graduated from Silver School of Social Work with her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree — an incredible achievement that reflects both dedication and perseverance. Earning a graduate degree is no small task, and we are proud to celebrate this milestone with Brianna and her family.
Jack Gelineau (top right)
I’m also excited to congratulate Jack Gelineau, son of our very own Beckie Kittel! 🎓 Jack recently graduated from Christian Brothers College High School on Mother’s Day, making it an unforgettable and meaningful celebration for his family. What an incredible Mother’s Day gift for Beckie to watch her son walk across the stage and receive his diploma.
This fall, Jack will continue his academic journey via the collegiate route, and we’re excited to see all that lies ahead for him. Please join us in congratulating Jack and the Kittel & Gelineau family as he begins this exciting new chapter.
Emma Wunderlich (top left)
Congratulations as well to Emma Wunderlich, daughter of our very own Matt Wunderlich. 🎓 Emma recently graduated from Notre Dame High School, earning Cum Laude honors, an outstanding accomplishment that speaks to her hard work, focus, and dedication throughout her academic career.
Emma will continue her education this fall at a great university! We are excited to see all the opportunities and experiences ahead for her as she begins this next journey.
Theodore “Teddy” Caramba-Evans
Finally, congratulations to Theodore “Teddy” Caramba-Evans, who graduated back in April with “paw honors!” While there may still be some debate about how much he actually remembers from school, there’s no question that this is a proud and exciting accomplishment worth celebrating. We’re cheering Teddy on as he continues into his next chapter.
Congratulations again to all of our graduates and families within the Justine PETERSEN community. Your accomplishments inspire us all, and we look forward to seeing what each of you achieves in the future.
Next Saturday: Level Up St. Louis – a Small Business Growth Event
Join us for an experience designed to bring small business owners together to connect, learn, and grow. Through actionable insights, meaningful conversations, and real-world tools, you’ll gain what you need to move your business forward with confidence.
The Details –
Date: Saturday, May 30th, 2026
Time: @9:30 A.M.
Location: St. Louis County Library – Clark Family Branch
You must be registered for this event! To Register, go to: https://luma.com/y8je4163
Not yet part of the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready platform? Join for free to get started on growing your business before the event!
https://digitalready.verizonwireless.com/partner-brit-and-co
Upcoming Events
Lunch & Learn with Shawni Jackson!
To register, scan the QR Code or go to bit.ly/48ZSPkS
Grow Your Business This Year!
Join the free Lunch-and-Learn Series brought to you by efactory and Missouri State University
We’re excited to share that the Show-Me Network, in partnership with Justine PETERSEN, is launching a yearlong series of FREE virtual Lunch-and-Learns for entrepreneurs and small business owners across Missouri.
These no-cost sessions will provide practical guidance on funding, credit, financial management, and business growth—designed to meet entrepreneurs where they are and help them move forward with confidence.
⏰ All sessions are held online from Noon–1 p.m. (CT)
💻 Open to all Missouri entrepreneurs at no cost
Register Today!
All sessions are free and open to the public.
View the full calendar and register here:
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical tools, expert insight, and connections that support your business growth in 2026.
JP Family Corner
Happy Birthday!
JPversary
Ignite Illinois: Empowering Small Business Owners in Southern Illinois!
Fresh Start This May, So Let’s Talk About Your Credit
And now that May is almost over, it’s the perfect time to check in on those financial goals you said you’d start earlier this year 👀
If your credit is still on that “I’ll get to it” list, no judgment—we’ve got you.
My Credit Compass from Justine PETERSEN is a free program that helps you understand your credit, build better habits, and create a plan that actually works for you. No confusing jargon. No going it alone. Just real support to help you move forward.
Because let’s be honest… adulting is hard enough. Your credit journey doesn’t have to be.
Make May the month you finally start.
👉 Sign up for My Credit Compass today and take control of your financial future.
Contact Cameron Stuhl for details! cstuhl@justinepetersen.org
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Justine Petersen Housing and Reinvestment Corporation · 1023 N Grand Blvd · Saint Louis, MO 63106-1641 · USA