“Caitlin Vera thrives on exploration. Her inspiration: the culturally rich Soulard Farmer’s Market. Weekly trips to the market are the reason Caitlin, 14, of south St. Louis County, is packing her bags to go to the Galapagos Islands in May. She will be a member of the first-ever National Geographic Kids Expedition Team. Caitlin’s essay describing the variety of cultures and cuisine in her hometown, as well as a photograph of the market, won her a spot on the 15-member team.”