This week on Spotlight STL: A groundbreaking company launch in the Cortex Innovation District is being hailed as a glimpse into Missouri’s future. We highlight trailblazing children’s authors who took on a mission to boost representation and inspire young readers. Travel back in time with a Missouri Life segment on the pivotal Battle of Lexington—and the lasting mark it left on the state. Discover Missouri’s first known female artist, whose watercolors captured history as it unfolded. And finally, explore the cutting edge of agriculture with countertop greenhouses that could transform how we grow food—on Earth and in space.

Tremendous support celebrating $42.5M expansion of Varro Life Sciences is sign of growth for Cortex!
“You can just feel the energy,” recalled Sam Fiorello, President and CEO of Cortex Innovation District.

History Spotlight: Patricia McKissack
In the 1980s, African American history was underrepresented in student books. A St. Louis couple tackled this by writing 100+ books over 30 years.

The Battle of Lexington
Come with us on a visit to The Battle of Lexington State Historic Site to explore the famous “Battle of the Hemp Bales” and learn about its lasting impact on the community of Lexington. For more stories like this one visit YouTube.com/@MissouriLifeMag.

More than Ordinary: Early St. Louis Artist Anna Maria von Phul
“More than Ordinary: Early St. Louis Artist Anna Maria von Phul” celebrates the life and catalog of Missouri’s first known female artist.

MARSfarm Greenhouses
MARSfarm greenhouses are small enough to fit on a countertop but could change the way the next generation approaches agriculture on Earth – and in space.