Society

St. Louis’ history in music ranges from one of the oldest symphonies in the nation to strong roots in ragtime. Names like Joplin, Slatkin and Berry are synonymous with celebrated music and St. Louis. And then there’s Barbara Rose, whose gift to the city was organizing and presenting great jazz performances.

Music superstar DIANA ROSS has been announced as this year’s headliner for Variety’s Dinner with the Stars. The April 28 gala will be held at the Peabody Opera House, with all proceeds from the event benefiting Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis, which is celebrating 80 years of helping kids with disabilities. For more information, visit varietystl.org.

First diagnosed with lymphoma in 2004, Bill Koman is a two-time cancer survivor—with a commitment to take the challenge to another level. That dedication made way for Pedal the Cause, an annual fall cycling event with a mission to provide funding for cancer research at Siteman Cancer Center and St. Louis Children’s Hospital.

Just how many happy endings can a story have? Susan McBride always wanted to write, and now she’s the award-winning author of the best-selling The Cougar Club and Little Black Dress, as well as a five-year breast cancer survivor, a sought-after speaker and—surprise!—a first-time expectant mom at age 47. (Although that surprise might be more accurately described as a happy new beginning.) The ebullient McBride says she’s also an ‘accidental cougar.’