Our Town: November 2020 by Community News

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Our Town Volume 11 | Number 11 NOVEMBER 2020 Published by the Community News, Our Town is a monthly news magazine covering the cities of Creve Coeur, Maryland Heights, and Olivette. Circulation is 7,000 monthly through over 105 monitored newsstands guaranteeing 100% pickup. Additional issues are distributed online, and a free online subscription is available at www.mycnews. com

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Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis plans to turn the former Carter Carburetor site into a golf training center for St. Louis youth and more.

Feature PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF Mathew DeKinder PUBLISHER EMERITUS/ GENERAL MANAGER Bob Huneke PRODUCTION Becky Brockmann Melissa Nordmann CONTRIBUTORS Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Cindy Moore STAFF WRITERS Brett Auten Charlotte Beard

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Ending the cycle of violence Creve Coeur’s Domestic Violence Shelter Municipal Court Cost Fund helps prevent child abuse and neglect, provide transitional housing, and support and follow-up services to survivors of domestic violence. By Charlotte Beard

Our Thoughts Moore on Life author Cindy Moore thinks we’re in a bad Stephen King novel while Avalanche witnesses firefighting in the mountains.

Lifestyle 2021 Lexus LC500 luxury Sports Coupe is both captivating and stunning in Automobile Alley. Remembering ‘Brian’s Song’ and other classic TV sports films in Entertainment. Take the fear out of trying unfamiliar produce in For the Love of Food.

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In Depth The Objective Reporter, a student-led nonprofit organization based in St. Louis, seeks to educate and inform voters across Missouri about politicians at all levels of government.

Events Calendar

Staff Writer – Charlotte Beard Cover Photo – Submitted

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Call for talent Call for entries for the 11th Annual St. Louis Teen Talent Competition

www.treesbywoody.net

4 | OUR TOWN | NOVEMBER 2020

Fox Performing Arts Charitable Foundation (FPACF) announced online registration is now open for the 11th Annual St. Louis Teen Talent Competition for high school students in the bi-state St. Louis Metropolitan area. There are no fees to participate or register. This year the Preliminary Round of the competition will be conducted solely by video submissions. Students will be vying for scholarships, special awards, prizes, and the opportunity to compete in the Finals on the Fabulous Fox Theatre stage. This event showcases the most talented teens in our region who excel in the performing arts. Past finalists have performed on tour with “Hamilton,” on NBC’s “The Voice,” “American Idol”, in The Muny, with the Chamber Music Society of St. Louis, at the Sheldon Concert Hall, Shakespeare Festival St. Louis, at Gateway Grizzlies and St. Louis Cardinals games and area festivals. Contestants must be enrolled in the ninth, 10th, 11th or 12th grade in the 2020-2021 school year and must attend a high school/home school within a 50-mile radius from the St. Louis Gateway Arch. Acts may be a solo or up to six students performing as a group. Performing arts categories include (but are not limited to): singers, dancers, actors, musicians, comedians, ventriloquists, and circus skill artists. Acts may perform original or published material. High school students can respond to the “Call for Entries” and register on-line at www.foxpacf.org. Executive Director Judith Cullen noted, “This year, talented teens can compete in our first round by simply registering and submitting a video; there is not another scholarship opportunity as easy as this anywhere in our St. Louis area.” Finalists in past years have included aerialists, classical and pop singers, a whistler, pianists, a harpist, ukulele artists and other musicians, dancers, jugglers, bands, and baton twirlers. The 2020 winner of the competition was freestyle, hip hop dancer DemBari Taneh from Kirkwood High School who won an $8,000 scholarship and a dance intensive scholarship. Each round of the competition will have a panel of at least three judges who will adjudicate performances and advance acts to the next round. Judges for the preliminary and semi-final rounds are arts professionals from the St. Louis region who are asked to give each act constructive, verbal feedback following each performance. The finalists will compete on the Fabulous Fox stage. Students placing first, second and third will win college scholarships. Contestants who advance to the semi-final round will be eligible for various prizes, special awards, and scholarships. A complete list is available at www.foxpacf.org. Finalists will also be provided unique performance opportunities within the St. Louis area arranged by FPACF and by request. “We are always gratified and happy with the response to this event from students, parents, arts organizations and the community. We are thrilled to provide the opportunity for students to perform at the Fox and on other stages around St. Louis. We are pleased that we are able to put talented young people in the spotlight,” said Mary Strauss, FPACF Board President and creator of the St. Louis Teen Talent Competition.

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Arch access Gateway Arch National Park increases visitor access to documentary movie experience Gateway Arch National Park is continuing to increase access to visitor activities by expanding visitor accessibility to the documentary movie experience. Shown in the Gateway Arch’s Tucker Theater, “Monument to the Dream” is a 1967 Academy Award-nominated film that chronicles the construction of the Gateway Arch. “We have made the necessary changes to the movie experience to ensure visitor and employee safety, and we are very eager to reintroduce this wonderful way to learn about the history of the Gateway Arch and give our visitors a more detailed look at how the monument was built,” said Gateway Arch National Park Superintendent Mike Ward. In addition to previously-announced health and safety protocols that have been implemented throughout the Arch facility (which are outlined online at nps.gov/jeff) Gateway Arch National Park has made the following modifications to the documentary movie. These modifications are subject to updates: • Significantly reduced capacity in the theater. • Rows closed to ensure social distancing. • Reminders to follow health and safety guidelines. • Increased disinfecting and sanitizing of surfaces The movie screens daily at the top of every hour, beginning at 10 a.m. The last showing is at 5 p.m. The Arch Visitor Center, Museum at the Gateway Arch, Tram Ride to the Top, Arch Café and The Arch Store remain open to visitors. Tickets for the Tram Ride to the Top and Documentary Movie are subject to availability, based on reduced facility capacity. It is strongly recommended to purchase your tickets in advance at gatewayarch.com. For individuals needing assistance with making reservations, contact the call center at 877-982-1410. Staff members are available to answer questions in the Arch Visitor Center during facility hours of operation. Visitors to the Arch must enter the monument at the new glass west entrance, which faces the Old Courthouse. The Arch legs are exits only, providing great opportunities for photo ops with the Arch structure and direct access to the park grounds. Gateway Arch National Park does not have designated on-site visitor parking. A list of parking locations near the park can be found at getaroundstl.com. Metered street parking is also available around the park. The Old Courthouse remains closed at this time. Outdoor spaces at Gateway Arch National Park remain accessible to the public in accordance with the latest federal, state and local health guidelines. The park continues to work closely with the NPS Office of Public Health using CDC guidance to ensure public areas and workspaces are safe and clean. The NPS encourages visitors to plan their visit by checking the park’s website and social media for current conditions and travel tips. Gateway Arch National Park asks the public to partner in recreating responsibly by following CDC and state and local guid-

ance, social distancing and wearing a face covering when social distance cannot be maintained. Details and updates on park operations will continue to be posted on the website at nps.gov/jeff and social media channels (@ GatewayArchNPS). Updates about NPS operations will be posted on nps.gov/coronavirus.

NOVEMBER 2020 | OUR TOWN | 5

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Masking up Clayton statues are masking up to encourage mask wearing this fall In an effort to encourage the continued wearing of masks in public settings and additional social distancing guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic, the St. Louis Arts Chamber of Commerce, in coordination with the city of Clayton, will install custom-made masks on seven sculptures throughout the city as the latest addition to the #MaskUpSTL campaign. “We have to work together as a region to help keep everyone safe and keep our businesses open,” said Michelle Harris, city of Clayton Mayor. “When I saw this effort unfolding around St. Louis, I knew that Clayton had to be part of it!” The St. Louis Arts Chamber of Commerce launched #MaskUpSTL as a regional, collaborative partnership with municipalities, businesses, organizations and artists to serve as a reminder to St. Louisans about their ability to help keep one another safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the addition of Clayton’s artwork, the #MaskUpSTL campaign includes more than 30 community partners who have helped facilitate the installation of about 150 masks on public sculptures throughout the region.

“We are excited to help facilitate this public awareness campaign to encourage everyone throughout greater St. Louis to wear masks and help mitigate the spread of COVID-19,” said Sandy Brooks, Executive Director of the St. Louis Arts Chamber of Commerce. “We hope these sculptures that residents and visitors of the region routinely visit or pass by in their daily commutes will serve as an example and reminder that we all need to work together to help combat the coronavirus by doing simple things - like wearing a mask!” The masks, designed to display both the St. Louis flag and the Clayton city logo, were commissioned by the St. Louis Arts Chamber and were installed on Oct. 5. The participating artwork includes: • “Elizabeth” by Ruth Keller Schweiss at Clayton High School • Carl Milles’ “Folke Filbyter” at Clayton City Hall • “Man on a Horse” by Fernando Botero at Wydown & Hanley • Ernest Trova’s “FM6 Walking Jackman” at Brentwood & Maryland • “Still Point” by Ruth Keller Schweiss at The Ritz-Carlton • Todd Frahm’s “Youth” in Wydown Park • The sculpture of Martin Luther at Concordia Seminary Alongside Monday’s installation, students from Ladue High School’s “STL Mask Project by Students” will be joined by Clayton High School students to participate in the #masked_dance_dynamite challenge - a social media campaign where students are encouraged to wear masks and dance to “Dynamite” by BTS as a way to promote and normalize mask wearing among their peers. Residents and visitors are encouraged to capture photos and videos with the installations and share them using the hashtag #MaskUpSTL and tagging the Arts Chamber on social media. In addition to Clayton, Downtown, the Central West End, Chesterfield, Crestwood, The Delmar Loop/University City, Forest Park, Grand Center, The Grove, Kirkwood, Manchester, St. Louis Children’s Hospital, St. Louis Community College, Washington University in St. Louis and Wildwood also have various pieces of public art participating in #MaskUpSTL. Masks will remain on display through Halloween. For those interested in learning more, please visit www.stlouisartschamberofcommerce.org.

WWW.FOREVERCLEANGUTTER.COM 6 | OUR TOWN | NOVEMBER 2020

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Biking to fight cancer

SUBMITTTED PHOTO

Pedal the Cause finds success in virtual event, stays course to end cancer

On Sept. 26 and 27, 3,120 adults and 333 kids completed a physical challenge on their own centered around biking, running, walking and spinning, while raising money to fund innovative cancer research at Siteman Cancer Center and Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.

For the past ten years on the last weekend of September, St. Louisans on a mission to create a world without cancer have gathered to celebrate Pedal the Cause. Like most large-scale events, 2020 looked different. On Sept. 26 and 27, 3,120 adults and 333 kids completed a physical challenge on their own centered around biking, running, walking and spinning, while raising money to fund innovative cancer research at Siteman Cancer Center and Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Participants stayed connected through a livestream Inspirational Program and various interactive opportunities throughout the weekend, maintaining Pedal the Cause’s hallmark community feel with small team gatherings across the metropolitan region. “Once it became clear that gathering would not be possible this year, we quickly launched Pedal the Cause Inspired,” says David Drier, Executive Director of Pedal the Cause. “We knew our Pedal Family would be on board to set their own goals and raise critical funds, but what we couldn’t imagine was the incredible momentum and enthu-

siasm from the St. Louis community and beyond. With 3,453 participants from 37 states, Pedal the Cause Inspired has proven to be not just a success but a seminal moment in our history where we can proudly say we donated millions of dollars to fund cancer research that is improving and saving lives.” Pedal the Cause Inspired builds on the organization’s rich history raising funds to support new ideas in cancer research that are not currently eligible for federal funds. Last year’s record-breaking donation of $4.74 million brings the total funds donated by Pedal the Cause since 2010 to $29,077,611. This money has funded 156 cancer research projects, including 122 adult and 34 pediatric projects. This year’s virtual event will add to that grand total, when the final donation amount is announced to the community at the Check Presentation Celebration Livestream on Nov. 19. There is still opportunity to contribute to Pedal the Cause Inspired. Donate before the deadline of Oct. 31 at www.pedalthecause.org.

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NOVEMBER 2020 | OUR TOWN | 7

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Miles of smiles Delta Dental of Missouri launches virtual Land of Smiles program Delta Dental of Missouri’s Land of Smiles program, known for visiting hundreds of elementary schools throughout Missouri each year to teach grade-school children good dental health habits, has launched a new virtual experience in response to the continuing impact of COVID-19. The engaging, age-appropriate online program features a vibrant 30-minute video with brand-new Land of Smiles superhero characters, which can be used for students in the classroom and for those involved in partial or full-time virtual learning. More than 60 Missouri schools – including 21 schools throughout the St. Louis area – have already signed up to take advantage of this free virtual program. Delta Dental of Missouri is continuing to take bookings for its program and encourages schools throughout the state to sign up to access it. The virtual Land of Smiles experience follows dynamic superhero Captain Super Grin, as he defeats his nemesis, Caz Cavity, with a little help from his sidekicks, Terri Tooth Fairy and Toothpick. Throughout the adventure, students learn the importance of brushing teeth twice a day, flossing, eating healthy foods and visiting the dentist regularly. Delta Dental of Missouri offers free “smile bags” to schools for students who participate in the program. Each bag includes a toothbrush, toothpaste and dental floss to help students practice the good oral health habits that they learn. Each school is responsible for distributing the bags to participating students who attend school in person or virtually. “When COVID hit, our team, like the rest of the nation, wasn’t sure what the 2020-2021 school year would look like, so we went to work to develop our virtual Land of Smiles program,” said Rob Goren, president and chief executive officer at Delta Dental of Missouri. “The new characters are a lot of fun and do a fantastic job of encouraging young students to take great care of their growing smiles. We’re pleased that the program has already received rave

Delta Dental of Missouri’s Land of Smiles program, known for visiting hundreds of elementary schools throughout Missouri each year to teach grade-school children good dental health habits, has launched a new virtual experience in response to the continuing impact of COVID-19.

reviews from students and teachers alike.” Becky Gretzmacher, LPN, the school nurse at Ste. Genevieve Elementary commented, “Our students loved the show and the positive responses from the teachers were overwhelming. All were 100 percent engaged and retained very healthy, good information. For us, during these times, the virtual format was amazing.” Delta Dental of Missouri will be following federal, state and county guidelines to determine when it is safe to resume its inperson Land of Smiles performances at schools. In the meantime, interested teachers, school nurses and principals can visit www. LandofSmilesProgram.org to preview the free program and request access to it on a date and time that works for their students.

A new lease on life Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis plans to turn the former Carter Carburetor site into a golf training center for St. Louis youth BY CHARLOTTE BEARD Before the end of November 2020, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis (BGCSTL) anticipates becoming the new owners of the former Carter Carburetor site property located at 2805 N. Grand Boulevard in St. Louis. The site is set to be the future home of a golf training center for St. Louis youth. On Sept. 16, BGCSTL announced that 8 | OUR TOWN | NOVEMBER 2020

the organization had entered into a Prospective Purchaser Agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to acquire the property following the recent completion of the site cleanup. The club will partner with Gateway PGA Reach to develop the youth golf training facility. “When the Bellerive Country Club was awarded the PGA championship event in 2018, part of their application said that they would create an opportunity to promote

AroundTown golf and other leisure activities for folks in the community,” stated Dr. Flint Fowler, Boys & Girls Club of Greater St. Louis President. “Generally, when there is a tournament some of the impact that the PGA hopes to make is on the lives and the quality of life for the people in the community where they are holding the tournament. The concept was pitched to them to create this initiative called PGA Reach where they would (provide) golf instruction and better understanding about the business of golf available to communities (that) traditionally don’t get involved (in golf) a great deal. In St. Louis that happens to be primarily African Americans and people of color.” The BGCSTL saw this as the perfect opportunity for the PGA. A board member who was aware of this (initiative) reached out to the PGA Reach folks and suggested we have a meeting. I suggested we try to get hold of Carter Carburetor in order to build the golf training facility because it would be close by The Boys and Girls Club and other organizations like Urban K-Life, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and near some of the St. Louis Public School sites,” said Fowler. “Young people from all those locations could take advantage of that space. (The) Carter Carburetor building had been vacant for nearly 30 years. Nothing productive was happening there. It was an eyesore to the community – I think a major distraction to other or potential development. By having that building torn down, having the land cleaned up, and putting it to some productive use would complement what we were doing in the Boys and Girls Club. It would tie in well with what the PGA was hoping to achieve when they brought the tournament here in 2018.” Fowler further stated that the cleanup took much longer than expected, so goals were not met by the time the tournament happened. In 2013, the EPA entered into a $35 million settlement agreement with ACF Industries, Inc. to begin the site’s cleanup, building demolition and productive reuse. Cleanup began that year with the removal of asbestos and hazardous debris from buildings on the property. Demolition and removal of the buildings began in 2015. Additional waste removal work, on-site waste treatment, and other cleanup work continued into 2017. EPA and ACF Industries, Inc. completed their site work in May 2020. “I couldn’t be prouder to sign this Prospective Purchaser Agreement because it opens up a tremendous future for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis,” stated EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler. “Few imagined a polluted, former carburetor plant could be transformed into a golf training center for the youth of St. Louis. But with vision and teamwork it happened.” Fowler states, “Though we did not have a golf course built at the time the PGA event was here, we did start a golf program. Based on the number of young people who were and are involved DeSmet Retirement Community oﬀers competitive in the program (at our monthly rates and life-enhancing amenities. sites), we were able to start golfing expeTO SCHEDULE YOUR TOUR TODAY! riences and teachDeSmet Reerement Community ing young people the 1425 N New Florissant RD | Florissant, MO 63033 game of golf. The Language Services Assistance 562-257-5255 PGA Reach also has TDD #(800) 545-1833 Ext. 359 www.DeSmetRetirement.org other locations where ALF License: #II 040092 the golf program was

alive and well (in 2018). They had a program operating in some of the schools; that effort is continuing. All those groups have been part of the conversation. To date we know from usage and local golf courses that there’s great interest. We also know from surveying people in the community that they would want to access a golfrelated experience. It is more than just grabbing a club, going out on the course, hitting your drive, chip shot and putting. We will actually be able to teach young people the different skills associated with the game of golf – how to come out of a sand, how to drive a ball from the tee, how to work on your short game, how to putt, etc. When they go out to a more traditional golf course, they will be able to apply those skills. So, (golf has) been (in) our conversations with young people in our clubs and organizations like Urban K-Life and in the St. Louis Public Schools. We know there is an appetite for this (facility).” According to Fowler, the administration is currently working on updating the facility’s design. BGCSTL had some preliminary plans but decided to investigate implementing more interactive accommodations for youth rather than “a passive kind of golf course.” Their desire is to have activity and skill stations. In addition, to maximize use of the facility BGCSTL has plans to attract the interests of adults. Fowler states that it will take various resources to build out the space and that the club wants to create an endowment that would be used to maintain the facility. “The goal is to not have to annually raise the money to keep in shape,” stated Fowler, “but to have the money there – make the necessary repairs as they are needed and provide for the upkeep of the space. Staff-wise – it will be a combination of volunteers and professional staff (including) a coordinator. (The coordinator) can schedule the use of the space, work to do outreach, coordinate activities with schools, and when the space is not being used by youth make sure that it is available (and) utilized by adults. Kids will be using the space for free. We hope to generate some revenue by renting the space out to adults and others.” Fowler further explained that logistics of the facility are still in the early stages for being finalized. The goal is to use the building year-round. “Every young person I think has the right to realize their potential. It takes maybe a little bit something different to reach each young person to draw them to the club so that we can have that kind of impact. For some (youth) it is basketball, for some it is technology or coming to a recording studio, and for some it is going to be the game of golf.”

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NOVEMBER 2020 | OUR TOWN | 9

Ending the cycle of violence BIGSTOCK

Creve Coeur’s Domestic Violence Shelter Municipal Court Cost Fund helps prevent child abuse and neglect, provide transitional housing, and support and follow-up services to survivors of domestic violence BY CHARLOTTE BEARD Nov. 25 marks the United Nation’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, however the city of Creve Coeur got a head-start by recognizing Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October by accepting applications for funding from qualified Missouri domestic violence shelters. Applications for the city’s Domestic Violence Shelter Municipal Court Cost Fund were scheduled to be received through Nov. 2. Though Creve Coeur’s Finance Director, Lori Obermoeller, states the fund began in 1995, the city’s Ordinance 5404, passed in 2014, gave the municipal court authorization to assess a $3 fee to each defendant who pleads guilty or is found guilty, on all ordinance violations. “These funds are used to prevent child abuse and neglect, 10 | OUR TOWN | NOVEMBER 2020

provide transitional housing, and support and follow-up services to survivors of domestic violence,” stated Obermoeller. According to Obermoeller, since the fund’s inception, more than $324,478 has been distributed to area organizations; $9,000 - $15,000 per year – depending on how many moving traffic violations are issued that year. She estimates three to seven agencies receive funding each year and anticipates Creve Coeur receiving three to five applications this year. “Many of these agencies have been hit really hard this year as (individuals) struggle to adapt to the rapidly-changing environment and to the stress of losing income, securing basic necessities, fears about the virus, and the anxiety of navigating in-person and virtual schooling for their children,” stated Obermoeller. Sources for The Salvation Army, one of Creve Coeur’s past recipients of the fund, state that every second, three people in the U.S. become a victim of domestic violence, which equates to more than 10 million Americans experiencing domestic abuse. Below are some of the other agencies the Creve Coeur Domestic Violence Shelter Municipal Court Cost Fund has aided and contact information in case you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse. Some of the things Lydia’s House provides are transitional housing in a confidential location; assistance to women and their children in planning for life goals, not limited to employment and education; and connections to needed information and resources. Though Lydia’s House does not have a 24-hour crisis hotline, the appropriate number for their resource partners can be found on their website: https://www. lydiashouse.org/get-help/ The Women’s Safe House was the first domestic violence shelter in St. Louis. It utilizes trained employees and volunteers who answer their crisis intervention hotline 24/7. They assess a woman’s safety and provide community referrals when needed. If staff establishes that a woman is ready to leave an abusive relationship, they begin the process for safe in-take at their confidential location. The 24-hour Crisis Intervention Hotline is 314-772-4535. For more information visit: https://twsh.org. The St. Louis Crisis Nursery is said to be the premier child abuse prevention program in the St. Louis region. Some of the things they provide are 24-hour emergency care for children and a 24 hour hotline for access to trauma-informed crisis intervention and resource referrals for families in crisis. The hotline is 314-768-3201. For more information visit: https://www.crisisnurserykids.org. ALIVE (Alternatives to Living in Violent Environments) prides itself on serving all genders “because domestic violence is not gender specific.” Its mission is to provide counseling, emergency sanctuary and other critical services to adults and children impacted by domestic abuse, as well as to increase awareness to create a supportive community. ALIVE believes there are four types of abuse: physical, sexual, psychological, and economic. They advise anyone that can answer ‘yes’ to any of the indicators outlined on their website (https://alivestl.org/signs-abuse/), call their crisis line. All services can be accessed through their 24-hour crisis line at 314-993-2777.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

NEED HELP?

www.lydiashouse.org/get-help/ for a list of resources in the area

314-772-4535 twsh.org

314-768-3201 crisisnursery.org

314-993-2777 alivestl.org NOVEMBER OCTOBER 2020 | OUR TOWN | 11

OurThoughts MOORE ON LIFE BY CINDY MOORE

Thanks, What a gloomy doomy year, huh?

but no thanks

With all the fires, earthquakes, hurricanes, bug infestations,and a mega virus on top of it you’re probably thinking there’s not much to be thankful for during this season of gratitude. Well cheer up because it’s time to look for silver linings! Very funny! You can quit pointing at my hair roots, smarty pants. Just because I haven’t been to the beauty salon for a proper dye job in six months doesn’t give you license to make rude jokes. So let’s look on the bright side. Perhaps a murder hornet will burrow into your nostril as you sleep tonight. (That was a little back-at-ya joke.) I have been known to be a tad vindictive. Now then, what things can we be thankful for with this nasty corona thing? Social distancing makes my husband ecstatic. “You mean I have a legitimate reason to not attend boring family parties and have to make up fake chit-chat or hug your smelly Aunt Fiona.” “What do you mean smelly? She bathes.” “I mean she always smells like an overly ripe fruit salad with Old Spice for dressing.” He’s thankful for that. He’s also happy that everyone has been isolated for months. “The traffic is awesome. I can drive over 25 miles per hour on the freeway during rush hour without stopping every ten feet and sucking in exhaust fumes.” Personally, I’m thankful for masks. Now I don’t have to wear makeup to the store and can make faces at random people. The other day I dashed in to finish up some grocery shopping. I had my hands on a perfectly ripened

Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder.

12 | OUR TOWN | NOVEMBER 2020

cantaloupe in the produce section, but some lady in workout attire snapped it up right out from under my grasp. We made eye contact. I stuck my tongue out at her. Good thing I had my mask on. She looked like she worked out. She could have bench pressed me right there next to the avocado display. Here’s another thing to be grateful for. We can now be at home with our own family for a longer period of time. We’ll get to know one another better by playing games, watching movies and engaging in meaningful conversation. I got the stink eye from my husband. I just know he’s sticking his tongue out at me from under that mask.

OurThoughts ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE BY AVALANCHE My friend Dano grew up in a small former mining town in the Rockies, the kind with gravel roads and lots of old, ramshackle buildings left over from a silver mining boom that ended a half-century prior to his birth. It was a place where everyone knew everyone else, no one locked their doors (if the door even had a lock) and most of the goods came into town via rail car. Now in his 70s, he’s seen the semi-ghost town of his birth turn into a glitzy world-renowned ski resort, where the billionaires have displaced the millionaires out of town. The cost of living generally precludes the working class (including doctors and lawyers) from actually owning a home there; if one works for a wage, one commutes from elsewhere. We had lunch together a few days ago, and both lamented some of the changes, both locally and nationally that have occurred over the last few years. Dano and I used to work together in that mega-priced resort town. We both have moved on to other things and still live near enough to commute up to town if we had to – and we’re grateful that we no longer do. We both live in side valleys that intersect with the main river valley that runs down from town, far enough away to be somewhat isolated from the culture that spills out, along with some of the money that sloshes around up there. Dano likes to ride his bicycle, but no longer rides the road due to ever-increasing traffic. The railroad tracks that used to carry merchandise to town were removed years ago, and the right-of-way converted to a pedestrian and bicycle trail. He pedals his miles on the trail, and noticed a trend over the last few years; namely, how few people say “hi” anymore. He began an experiment by saying “hi” or waving at everyone who was passing by going the other direction. The results confirmed his impression: only 40 percent of those on the trail would acknowledge his presence, even after he offered a greeting. Many went out of their way to avoid even looking at him. It was a sobering, but unsurprising statistic, even if the “study” was lacking in scientific precision. It seems that civility has been on the decline for some time, espe-

Eye contact cially in the formerly uncrowded Rockies. When I got here nearly forty years ago, (it’s shocking to see that number in print!) the roads were uncrowded, and social interaction was generally cordial and unforced. Most new transplants to the area came because they wanted to live in the mountains, and took whatever job they could find. Now, it seems that most new arrivals come because they found a job here; they would just as likely have moved to Toledo if a job had been offered there. There is less love for the land, let alone the current residents and culture. Now especially, the lack of eye contact seems more troubling. Fear of a virus has people staying farther apart, with masks covering smiles, frowns and anything in between. People hurry about their business with little or no conversation. Digital communication, handy as it is, takes the place of genuine connection. Personal bonds are strained, or lost entirely; new ones are not easily made. Dano and I are fortunate to live outside of the main valley. In our respective neighborhoods, people wave, say “hi” and have enough room to interact without covering

up, or feeling crowded. We’re still cordial, but are growing weary of those who want to change our remaining havens into an environment similar to the places they just escaped from. ****************** I’m typing this on the road, visiting family and friends in the O’Fallon area, as well as in the Ozarks. I conducted my own experiment while here in the Midwest. While out walking and jogging I greeted everyone I came across. Virtually everyone replied with a smile, nod, wave or friendly hello. It was refreshing to experience that simple civility. Thanks to all who participated in my impromptu study; please keep up the good cheer, we all need it!

Avalanche is a functional illiterate who left the St. Louis area three decades ago in search of adventure. He enjoys motorcycling and all things outdoors. He lives with his wife and dogs.

NOVEMBER 2020

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OurLifestyle

2020 Hyundai Venue

is a fun and functional modern SUV

Offered in three trim levels, the fivepassenger 2020 Hyundai Venue compact sport utility vehicle is a welcomed entry in this popular category. It has a somewhat conservative outer body design that hinges on being bold with a contemporary footprint; yet, it has Hyundai’s signature design language. It’s not an over-the-top execution, but it certainly stands out when compared to the other SUV’s in the Hyundai product mix. The optional two-tone color offering for the roof, mirrors and body trim is recommended if you are wanting to make a statement with this new entry. Venue symbolizes a handsome, yet trendy, unique style perfect for first-time buyers seeking a small SUV. It includes a lengthy list of standard safety and available features, all at an attractive base price point of $17,350. Their top end Denim model has a sticker price of $22,050. Freight charges of $1,140 aren’t included. Without question, it’s all about packaging and quality engineering. Venue designers were taxed with the assignment to develop a fun, yet functional and versatile compact modern SUV that would appeal to a wide customer base. With a quick road test, I think that you would agree that this objective was achieved. The one thing that stands out the instant you get up to posted driving speeds is the quiet interior. From everyday workplace assignments, helping with your “things to do” list, to weekend fun, Venue is a great fit in 14 | OUR TOWN | NOVEMBER 2020

accommodating busy lifestyles. This SUV exhibits excellence in a small-but-confident body form, delivering a new design language that tends to be cross-shopped with the likes of the Chevrolet Trax, Fiat 500X, Kia Seltos, Nissan Kicks, Jeep Renegade, Toyota C-HR and the Mazda CX-3. The vehicle’s side profile showcases a solid and noticeable full wheel arch design coupled with strong character lines. The front cascading grille assembly includes the new Hyundai signature face that is also found on both the Kona and their NEXO hydrogen fuel cell powered crossover. Also included are composite LED lights and cube shape headlamps. It’s unique and attractive character lines continues towards the tail lamps. Venue is available with attractive 17-inch alloy wheels along with their standard 15-inch tire and wheel package. “The Hyundai SUV lineup can be compared with the pieces on a chess board,” said SangYup Lee, executive vice president of design for Hyundai Motor Group. “Our new Palisade is the king, but we are missing the smaller piece. And that’s where Venue comes in. It may be small, but its unique and bold design sets it apart from the rest of the pack.” Clearly, fuel economy is a key factor for customers who purchase an entry-level vehicle. Venue meets this objective with the advanced 1.6 liter four-cylinder engine. The Dual Port Fuel Injection powerplant is rated at 121 horsepower. It’s paired with

either a six-speed manual transmission or an intelligent variable automatic transmission, set up on a front-wheel-drive chassis. Based on testing and depending on the trim level and/or options, fuel estimates run between 30 MPG city and 35 MPG highway. The dash instrument gauges and controls are easy to decipher. The appealing interior space and comfortable cabin provide adequate space. In part, this is due to the vehicle’s standard 60/40 split flat folding backseat to maximize utility. The cargo space features a rear covering shelf for added privacy and can be conveniently stowed. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the factory’s fiveyear/60,000-mile fully transferable new vehicle limited warranty.

BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN

David Finkelstein is a Master/ Skill Automotive Service Technician and a shop owner. He’s also invented garage service tools for mechanics and has served on both National and local Automotive Trade Industry Boards. He pioneered “Car Talk Radio” starting out with KMOX/CBS Radio and hosted “Auto Talk” on KFTK/FOX News Radio for 15-years. David tests and evaluates new vehicles weekly and does some consulting with various auto manufacturers.

OurLifestyle

St. Louis soccer players won ‘The Game of Their Lives’ Seventy years ago, the U.S. Soccer Team beat England during the 1950 FIFA World Cup in a game played in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. It is not surprising; however, to learn that the victorious team from America featured players such as Frank Borghi, Frank Wallace, Charlie Colombo, Gino Pariani and Harry Keough who hailed from St. Louis. Some were born and raised in The Hill neighborhood. 2005’s “The Game of Their Lives” focused on the players and how they achieved this upset victory over England. Screenwriter Angelo Pizzo wrote the screenplay, which is based on Geoffrey Douglas’ 1996 book of the same name. During a 2005 phone interview, Pizzo, who also wrote the screenplays for the basketball drama “Hoosiers” and the memorable “Rudy,” talked about the film. “It is a great story,” he said. “When I heard the story, I was like ‘Wow! I am not a big soccer fan, but I would go see that movie.’” When talking about sports movies, films such as “A League of Their Own” and “Field of Dreams” come to mind right away. At the time of this interview, soccer films were not that prevalent. “There really hasn’t been a vast history of soccer films in the sports genre area. There was ‘Victory,’ I suppose. That comes to mind first when I mentioned soccer films, but that was shot such a long time ago with Sylvester Stallone as the goalkeeper. Then there has been a few English soccer films: ‘The Mean Machine’ and ‘Shot at Glory,’” Pizzo said. According to Pizzo, the production company for “The Game of Their Lives” wanted to film in Canada, but director David Anspaugh and Pizzo insisted on filming in St. Louis and Rio de Janeiro where the story really happened. “The Missouri Film Commission helped us; they made it easier for us. They were extraordinarily helpful. We were in St. Louis for

three or four months and we dropped 7.5 million dollars into the local economy,” he said. When shooting the film, Pizzo pointed out that they were trying to be as authentic as they could in terms of play. The cast included Costas and Louis Mandylor playing Charlie Colombo and Gino Pariani. “It’s a really small pool of really good actors who can play world class soccer,” he said. “The Mandylor brothers are from Australia; they played on the Australian National Team. The rest of the team was filled with professional soccer players.” The soccer sequences, including the clashes between players, in “The Game of Their Lives” looked very real and there’s a good reason for that. “Anything you caught in terms of conflict and clashes on the field actually happened,” Pizzo explained. “These guys got into that. We did not script that; it happened. It’s hard to choreograph to make it look like natural soccer plays. So, we got five cameras going and said, ‘Go at it, guys.’” “The Game of Their Lives” is available on Hulu and other streaming services. BY STEVE BRYAN

Born and raised in South St. Louis, Steve Bryan is now based in Anaheim, California, and has been allowed access to movie and television sets to see actors and directors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve is, at heart, still the same wide-eyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters. NOVEMBER 2020

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OurLifestyle

Holiday centerpieces to savor Celebrate the season and create long-lasting memories this year by serving tasteful main courses centered around tender cuts of beef. With hand-cut choices like a Bone-in Frenched Prime Rib Roast, Butcher’s Cut Filet Mignons, a Beef Brisket Flat and Premium Ground Beef from Omaha Steaks, you can create elegant holiday centerpieces such as Steak Au Poivre or a unique generational recipe, the Simon Family Brisket. Each cut of beef is hand-

carved by expert butchers, flash-frozen to capture freshness and flavor at its peak and delivered directly to your door. For a truly mouthwatering meal, make Fred Simon’s Rib Roast Dubarry the focal point of the family table. As a favorite of Madame Dubarry, a prominent courtesan in French King Louis XVI’s court, this ver-

sion adapted by Fred Simon, fourth-generation family owner of Omaha Steaks, involves a marinade that gives the roast a smooth, rich, velvety flavor worthy of a royal dinner. Find more inspiration to create a memorable holiday meal at OmahaSteaks. com.

Fred Simon’s Rib Roast Dubarry Prep time: 5 minutes, plus 5-12 hours marinating time | Cook time: 2 hours, 15 minutes-2 hours, 45 minutes, plus 15 minutes for sauce | Servings: 4-6 Ingredients: 3 cups red wine, divided 1/4 cup olive oil 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons coarse ground mustard 1 bay leaf 1 bone-in Frenched prime rib roast (4 pounds), thawed 1 tablespoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided 1 tablespoon coarse ground pepper, plus

2 1 4 4 1 4 2 2 3

additional, to taste, divided tablespoons canola oil onion, quartered carrots, quartered celery stalks, quartered head garlic, halved horizontally sprigs fresh thyme sprigs fresh rosemary cups beef stock, divided tablespoons unsalted butter

Directions: In 2-gallon resealable bag, mix 2 cups wine, olive oil, garlic, mustard and bay leaf. Add roast, seal and place in refrigerator to marinate at least 5 hours or overnight, turning occasionally.

Remove roast from marinade and pat dry. Season generously with salt and pepper. Preheat oven to 250 F. Preheat large skillet over high heat. Add canola oil. Place roast in skillet and sear until well browned on all sides. Set skillet aside, leaving juices and browned bits for making sauce. In roasting pan lined with foil, add onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme and rosemary. Place roast on top of aromatics

16 | OUR TOWN | NOVEMBER 2020

bone-side down. Add 1 cup beef stock. Place in oven on center baking rack. Roast 2 hours, 15 minutes-2 hours, 30 minutes for rare or 2 hours, 30 minutes-2 hours, 45 minutes for medium-rare. Remove from oven. Place roast on cutting board. Tent with foil. Place any accumulated juices from roast in measuring cup. Add remaining beef stock to make 1 cup total. Pour into skillet over medium-high heat. Add remaining wine and bring to boil, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half. Remove from heat and whisk in butter. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Carve roast and serve with sauce.

OurLifestyle

Steak Au Poivre Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes Servings: 2 Ingredients: 2 filet mignons (5-6 ounces each), thawed 2 teaspoons kosher salt 2 tablespoons coarsely ground black pepper 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 2 tablespoons butter, divided 1/3 cup brandy or cognac 1 cup cream 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Directions: Season steak with salt and pepper. Press seasoning into meat to create even coating.

In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon butter until just smoking. Add steak and sear 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Once cooked to desired doneness, transfer steak to cutting board and tent with foil to rest. Reduce heat to medium and add brandy to skillet. Allow to cook down about 1 minute while stirring to scrape off any browned bits from bottom of pan. Once brandy reduces by half, add cream, Dijon mustard and remaining butter; continue cooking until mixture begins to reduce and thicken, 5-7 minutes. Slice steaks against grain and top with sauce.

Simon Family Brisket

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 4 hours, plus 20 minutes resting time | Servings: 4 Ingredients: 1 beef brisket flat (2 pounds), thawed 1 package (1.1 ounces) dry onion soup mix

1 1 1

can (14 ounces) whole cranberries cup chili sauce cup ginger ale

Directions: Preheat oven to 250 F. Place brisket in large ovenproof baking dish.

In bowl, mix onion soup mix, cranberries and chili sauce. Spoon over top of brisket. Pour ginger ale around edges of brisket. Cover with foil and bake 4 hours. Remove from oven and let rest 20 minutes. Remove brisket from baking dish and place on cutting board. Slice brisket against grain and place in serving dish. Top with sauce and serve.

NOVEMBER 2020

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InDepth

Making energy

greener

Ameren Missouri announces plans to expand usage of wind and solar energy to meet their goal of net-zero emissions by the year 2050 BY CHARLOTTE BEARD

At the end of September, Ameren Missouri announced its plans to expand usage of wind and solar energy to meet their goal of net-zero emissions by the year 2050. “There has been a lot of emphasis and push on improving carbon impacts on the environment,” stated Gwen Mizell, Ameren’s VP of Sustainability and Electrification. “For a power company like ours, we pay close attention to that – (though) we are no longer the largest contributor of carbon to the environment; now it’s the transportation sector. But as we think about that – we have to make sure that as we plan out 20 to 30 years from now that we’re thinking about how we ensure that power (is) quality, power is reliable, and that when you flip the switch (you are) ensured that you get the power that you need. At the same time (we must be) thoughtful about the environment and ultimately thoughtful about keeping our rates affordable for our customers.” Mizell stated that with Ameren’s netzero announcement, by 2050 they anticipate their four coal-fired resources will have been retired. Those energy centers set for retirement are Meramec in South St. Louis County, Rush Island in Jefferson County, Labadie in Franklin County, and Sioux in West Alton. This measure serves to help meet the global Paris Agreement in place to address climate change by “keeping a global temperature rise this century below 2°C 18 | OUR TOWN | NOVEMBER 2020

InDepth from preindustrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase even further to 1.5°C.” (See Ameren’s Climate Risk Report under https://www. ameren.com/company/environmentand-sustainability/corporate-social-responsibility). One of Ameren Missouri’s first strategies for meeting its goal is the planned acquisition of two Missouri-based wind energy facilities for approximately $1.2 billion. One of the facilities is located near Kirksville, Missouri (close to completion) and the other is in Atchison County (northwest Missouri) close to the state of Nebraska. “Communities in Missouri are already seeing the benefits of economic expansion driven by the availability, construction and ongoing operation of renewable resources,” stated Marty Lyons, Chairman and President of Ameren Missouri. “Renewable energy, constructed right here in Missouri, is good for the local economy.” Ameren Missouri projects the plan will create thousands of new construction jobs. Ameren Missouri’s other strategy for reaching its goal of net-zero emissions is increasing the customer usage of its present solar programs – Community Solar and Neighborhood Solar. According to Ameren, participants in the Community Solar program support the construction of a new solar facility in the Ameren Missouri’s service territory. The first one is at Lambert Airport. “It benefits the community because it’s clean renewable energy,” stated Mizell. “It’s better for the environment; it helps our communities particularly with many of the impacts that we’ve seen from environmental and health quality types of issues.” The Neighborhood Solar program is open to all non-residential Ameren Missouri electric customers who have space for the panels. As Ameren Missouri advances in its plans to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, the power company expects to advance in technology and energy efficiency programs that benefit customers. “Engineering base types of technol-

(Left and top) The first solar facility as a part of Ameren’s Community Solar program is at Lambert Airport. (Bottom) The Neighborhood Solar program is open to all non-residential Ameren Missouri electric customers who have space for the panels either on their roof or on their property.

ogy advancements that we might expect to see,” stated Mizell, “are carbon capture systems or carbon sequestration systems. Those are things not yet at the point where they are commercially available at a price that (positively) impacts customer affordability. So, that’s where we have to look to research – research that is many times led by a governmental entity because it’s really

expensive and it takes many years and stakeholders participating in that process to move those technologies along. So, we are not unlike our other utility peers. We have a really good sense of how we will get to net zero, but there’s probably the last five percent or so that remains unknown based on technologies that are still evolving.”

NOVEMBER 2020

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November 3

Election Day

Marine Corps Birthday

Veterans Day

Thanksgiving Day

Black Friday

Cyber Monday