As a resident of Maryland Heights for several years, I have come to love and appreciate my city. All of my quick necessities are close at hand, and I like my neighbors. I'd like to think we are a thriving city with a lot to offer prospective residents.

Which is why I loathe a comment like the one I heard this week during my manicure and pedicure treatment. When I responded to my nail technician to the question of where I lived, she answered, "Oh, Maryland Heights! Do you live by Harrah's?"

No. I don't.

Harrah's is not Maryland Heights. We are more than the casino. And despite this prevailing notion, Harrah's does not define us as a city.

I get this a lot. I am not sure if other residents reading this agree, but it seems that people outside the city feel that Harrah's put us on the map. It's like they think we were a barren land of tumbleweeds and empty lots before Harrah's construction.

You've got to be kidding.

We are certainly proud to have an economic booster like Harrah's in our city, the first casino opened in St. Louis County over 10 years ago. The casino is a huge attraction for visitors. But we are more than Harrah's. All you have to do is a take a look around and see that we are one great place to live.

Maryland Heights has several beautiful parks, businesses, recreational places and play facilities like Aquaport, Westport and Dave & Busters.

Maryland Heights also sports a culturally diverse group of residents that is lacking in many other cities and municipalities in the St. Louis area. What we lack in department stores, we make up for in entertainment, food, and fun places to hang out.

I think Maryland Heights is indeed a wonderful place to live and work, but it seems the rest of the St. Louis area sees Maryland Heights as a one-trick pony.

Let's prove them wrong.