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2 | OUR TOWN | MAY 2017
N THIS SSUE
Around Town Planning begins on Maryland Park Lake District and more.
Nonprofit Profile It’s Your Birthday, Inc. brings celebrations and happiness to children in homeless shelters
Feature Farm fresh in Creve Coeur Creve Coeur Farmers Market kicks off its fourth season with a variety of food, crafts and artwork By Nicholas Elmes
Our Thoughts Moore on Life author Cindy Moore tries fine dining with uncooperative males while Avalanche plans a trip to Monster Lake. 2017 Audi A4 Allroad sets the benchmark for luxury automotive wagons in this month’s Automobile Alley.
Caring Partners Tips for a fun, safe summer
Lifestyle Looking at the early hits of 2017 in Entertainment. Fresh ideas for a fun fiesta menu in For the Love of Food.
In Depth Princess Perspective works to mentor the whole girl
Events Calendar Cover Photo - Bigstock Staff Writer - Nicholas Elmes
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AuthorBiographies
Our Town Volume 08 | Number 5 MAY 2017
4 | OUR TOWN | MAY APRIL 2017 2017
PUBLISHER Robert Huneke EDITOR Mathew DeKinder PRODUCTION Lisa Moran Melissa Nordmann CONTRIBUTORS Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Brian Guerrero, Cindy Moore STAFF WRITERS Brett Auten Nicholas Elmes
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Community News
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.
Avalanche
Nicholas Elmes is a seasoned journalist with over 15 years of experience leading the newsrooms of small community newspapers in Virginia and North Carolina. A recent transplant to the St. Louis area, he is excited to get a chance to explore the diverse region while helping to share the stories of all of the good things happing in these communities.
Nicholas Elmes
David Finkelstein
David Finkelstein is a Master/Skill Automotive Service Technician, maintaining that role for over 45 years, coupled with being a shop owner in that time frame as well. He’s also invented a number of garage service tools for mechanics and has served on both National as well as local Automotive Trade Industry Boards. Additionally, he pioneered “Car Talk Radio” over 40 years ago, starting out with KMOX/CBS Radio as well as hosted “Auto Talk” on KFTK/FOX News Radio for some 15-years. David tests and evaluates new vehicles weekly and also does some consulting with various auto manufacturers, both import as well as with domestic nameplates.
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.
Cindy Moore
Brian Guerro
Brian Guerrero is a former resident of Los Angeles and a current resident of New York City with extensive experience in front of and behind the camera for film and television.
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
2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63366 Ph: 636.379.1775 Fx: 636.379.1632 www.mycnews.com Copyright 2017 Huneke Publications, Inc. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher.
AroundTown
Lake district planning begins Stakeholder Advisory Committee planning work on future development of Maryland Park Lake District The Stakeholder Advisory Committee formed in January to work with the city of Maryland Heights on the preparation of a development plan for the Maryland Park Lake District held its first public meeting on April 6. Twenty-one representatives from economic and infrastructure partners got an overview of the city’s vision for the 2,000-plus acre area and discussed a wide range of transportation, wastewater and economic development planning issues. Agencies participating in the meeting included: • St. Louis Economic Development Partnership • St. Louis County Planning Commission • St. Louis County Parks and Recreation Department • St. Louis County Highway Department • Major land owners including Creve Coeur Airport, Penn Gaming/Hollywood Casino, McBride Homes and Riverport Business Park • Transportation agencies including Metro and EastWest Gateway • Howard Bend Levee District • Great Rivers Greenway • Public school districts including Pattonville and Parkway • Fire protection districts including Maryland Heights, Pattonville and Monarch The Stakeholder Advisory Committee is charged with consulting and preparing findings and recommendations for the Maryland Heights City Council, Economic Development Commission and Planning Commission regarding individual elements of the development area’s infrastructure, conceptual develop and economic development plans. “We are seeking the advice of these highly knowledgeable people and the agencies they represent, and we will share their advice with our city’s elected and appointed officials,” said Wayne Oldroyd, Director of Community Development for the city of Maryland Heights. The Stakeholder Advisory Committee will meet again in May, and plans to hold additional meetings and eventually a public hearing to share their findings with the city. The meetings are open to the public, and the public may also submit written comments to the committee through the Maryland Park Lake District website at www.mplakedistrict. com. This website will be updated regularly with new information from the committee, including all meeting notices.
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MAY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 5
AroundTown
Fighting hunger
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Dierbergs Markets donates $75,000 to Operation Food Search
Dierbergs Markets’ corporate office associates volunteer at a recent backpack event where they sorted and packed food.
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6 | OUR TOWN |MAY 2017
Dierbergs Markets is one of the area’s first corporations to kick start the public phase of a local nonprofit’s drive to end food insecurity. Dierbergs recently donated $75,000 toward a capital campaign by Operation Food Search (OFS) called “The Campaign to End Childhood Hunger in the St. Louis Region.” OFS had already raised $6,388,000 of its $7 million capital campaign goal, leaving only $612,000 remaining when the campaign went public. With Dierbergs’ donation, along with several gifts from local donors, the agency has to-date raised a total of $118,000 and now needs to raise the remaining $494,000. The main goal of the capital campaign is to grow OFS’ ability to stop the damaging cycle that food insecurity produces. Hunger strains the region’s education and negatively affects health outcomes with one in four children – approximately 173,000 children – in the 31 counties in Missouri and Illinois plus the city of St. Louis being at risk. The funds will focus on expanding the organization’s nutrition education services, providing community education about the area’s hunger problem, and increasing capacity building with its agency network. In addition, the campaign allows for the purchase of more freezer, cooler and racking space
to store food and supplies. Founded in 1854, Dierbergs Markets is a family owned and operated grocer with 24 St. Louis metropolitan area stores and a location at Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks. “Our relationship with Operation Food Search dates to the organization’s earliest days,” said Dierbergs’ Vice President Laura Dierberg Padousis. “This capital campaign gift was an easy decision for us because we’ve seen firsthand how effective, efficient and innovative Operation Food Search is at addressing childhood hunger in our community.” Padousis added that the capital campaign gift was on top of Dierbergs’ annual OFS support programs that include food donations, corporation gifts, and in-store customer food drives and cash campaigns. “Operation Food Search is pioneering a new era of hunger relief in our community. The capital campaign is fueling that growth, and we invite others to join us in support of an organization at the center of hunger solutions in our community,” said Dierberg Padousis. “Dierbergs Markets has been a consistent, supportive partner since they began donating food to our agency in 1981,” said Operation Food Search Executive Director Sunny Schaefer.
AroundTown
Developing the future 39 North master plan under review
The Creve Coeur Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) is reviewing a draft master plan for the 39 North plant science and technology innovation district located in the northeast corner of Creve Coeur. The St. Louis Economic Development Partnership (SLEDP) presented the plan and solicited feedback at a joint work session with the city council, P&Z and the Creve Coeur Economic Development Committee on April 17. A public hearing by P&Z is scheduled for May 17 at 6:30 p.m. The draft 39 North master plan is available for review at www. creve-coeur.org/39North. Anchored by the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, Bio-Research and Development Growth (BRDG) Park and the Helix Center Biotech Incubator, 39 North is a 575-acre plant science and technology innovation district that aims to foster opportunities for economic growth and reinforce Creve Coeur as a global hub for plant science and technology innovation. The master plan establishes the necessary framework for a thriving district of re-
search activity, business and entrepreneurship. Key elements of the plan include connecting the various life, plant science and technology organizations in the area connected by a walkable and bike-friendly environment within a mixed-use district with supporting retail and gathering spaces. Public infrastructure, branding and governance recommendations to support the continued vitality of this growing industry are also provided in the master plan. The SLEDP has led the planning effort with participation from the city of Creve Coeur, St. Louis County, and several business entities. Public workshops were held in 2016 by the consultant, Ayers Saint Gross, to solicit input from stakeholders. If adopted by P&Z, the 39 North Master Plan will be included as an addendum to the city’s 2030 Comprehensive Plan, which P&Z is also in the process of adopting. Formally adopting the plan will support the city’s efforts for implementation.
AAA for Creve Coeur Creve Coeur has received an AAA bond rating, the highest rating possible, from S&P Global Ratings. S&P Global Ratings (formerly known as Standard & Poor’s) is a leading global credit rating, research and risk analysis firm. The city applied for the bond rating in connection with the proposed $10,690,000 bond issue that was approved by voters last November for the construction of a new police station and improvements to the Government Center. In connection with the rating, S&P released a report that stated that the rating reflects its assessment of the
city’s very strong economy that is broad and diverse, strong budgetary flexibility with high reserves, and a low debt burden. In addition, S&P described the city’s management as “strong” with good financial policies and practices. Joy Howard, the city’s financial advisor, noted that the assignment of S&P’s highest rating makes Creve Coeur one of only five cities in Missouri to have an S&P AAA rating. Just as individuals benefit by having excellent credit scores, the AAA rating will make it possible for the city to obtain the lowest possible interest cost on its bonds.
MAY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 7
AroundTown
Neighbors Helping Neighbors St. Louis County program provides transportation services to seniors from trusted volunteers
For many seniors throughout the St. Louis figuring out a transportation to a doctor’s appointment, to the bank, or even to just get groceries can be a real issue. Thankfully, a special service called Neighbors Helping Neighbors offered through County Older Resident Programs (CORPS) can provide seniors free transportation services from trusted volunteers, building relationships and making sure seniors do not have to feel trapped in their home. “The aging population has increased. People are living longer, and they want to stay in their homes instead of going to a nursing home,” said CORPS Volunteer Coordinator Robin B. Gillespie. “A lot of seniors may have children who work during the day and cannot get off work to get their parents to these vital appointments.” Other seniors may not have family or friends in the area and have no way to get to needed medical appointments. “The people who come are very nice and polite,” said Elizabeth Hodges, a Florissant senior who has been using the service for about four years. “They are very dependable. I use them up to three times a month to get to doctors and hospitals.” Hodges said that without the service she would have to depend on the kindness of her neighbors. “Sometimes I can get them to help with a ride, but not often,” she said. “Mostly I would have to pay.” Gillespie said the service is mainly used for trips for medical appointments, but that many seniors also use it to help get groceries, to get to the bank or to just get out and socialize with other seniors. 8 | OUR TOWN |MAY 2017
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BY NICHOLAS ELMES
CORP customer Elizabeth Hodges of Florissant (left) stands with volunteer driver Pamela McKnought, also of Florissant.
“We have volunteer drivers who will do the shopping on behalf of a senior,” she said. “They will go to the senior’s home, get the list of what they need and funds to purchase the items and then go to the grocery store and shop and bring the groceries back. “We also offer a number of socialization opportunities through CORP,” she added. “So the volunteer drivers might take them to the botanical gardens or to the movies for a group socialization. Or they might take the senior to the beauty shop or to the bank.” Gillespie said that socialization is key for an aging population that may have trouble making out of their homes frequently. “Some seniors could have thoughts of suicide depending on how bad their situation is,” she said. “CORP hopefully helps with that by getting them out of their house. They are interact-
ing with younger generations in some instances, or with their peer age group. We get written comments from seniors almost daily telling us how appreciative they are of the service.” Neighbors Helping Neighbors is not a simple pick up and drop off service like riding a bus. “It is a door to door service,” said Gillespie. “Our volunteers go to the customer’s door and then actually go into the doctor’s waiting room with them.” And while the service is a clear benefit to seniors in need of transportation, Gillespie said that it is also a real benefit for the volunteers who participate in the program. “It goes beyond the service,” she said. “Some volunteers have developed strong relationships with the seniors they are helping over the years. They become very close in a lot of situations.” Florissant volunteer driver Pamela McNought said she loves getting to interact with the seniors and building relationships with them. “Everyone at some time needs a helping hand and a friendly face to talk with,” she said. “Driving is a very rewarding experience and a great way to give back. You can drive as often as your schedule permits and the customers are always so appreciative.” Gillespie said that CORP is always in need of more volunteer drivers. “We serve about 5,000 seniors across the county through all of the CORP services and provide transportation services to about 700 seniors,” she said. “We need many more volunteers.” Volunteers must be 21 years old or older and must supply their own vehicle. Gillespie said that CORP recently
AroundTown
Sharing the harvest Hunters across Missouri donate deer meat to the Share the Harvest program to help feed the hungry BY BRETT AUTEN It was a bountiful harvest in more ways than one. Once again, the Missouri Department of Conservation and the Conservation Federation of Missouri joined forces with the state’s deer hunters for the state’s Share the Harvest program that donates deer meat to help feed hungry Missourians all around the state. In all 4,280 hunters donated 198,277 pounds of venison to Share the Harvest program this past deer season. The process was simple. Deer hunters donated their extra venison to more than 100 participating meat processors throughout the state who would grind the deer meat into one-pound packages. The packaged venison was given to food banks and food pantries for distribution to Missourians in need of food assistance. Mike Ohlms of Old Monroe has participated in the program for upwards of 16 years. “As far as hunters giving back to the community, there is no better way to do it,” Ohlms said. Ohlms has had the unique perspective of not only donating but also delivering the processed venison to the food pantries. “The first time I saw the look on the faces of the food pantry volunteers, it was unbelievable,” Ohlms said. “One time, due to a rush at the processor, I made a delivery early in the morning and there were people waiting in line. They all jumped in and helped unload and it was constant ‘thank yous.’” Dan Zarlenga is the Media Specialist with the Missouri Department of Con-
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completed offering defensive driving courses for over 120 volunteers. The volunteers are connected with seniors through seven neighborhood coordinators. “They each focus on different zip codes,” she said. “When a neighborhood coordinator gets a call from a senior in need of transportation then they will contact volunteers in that area and see who is available to assist. On average our volunteers drive twice a week but it ranges from volunteer to volunteer. We had one volunteer who drove five days a week for about five years and then other volunteers who only drive twice a month. It is completely based on the volunteer’s availability.” Training is provided at no cost to volunteers, and mileage reimbursement is available. “We have one volunteer who is 84 years old and she said she will be using our services because she is very familiar with them,” said Gillespie. “I am proud that I’m receiving care because I’m used to providing,” explained Helen Wakefield. “At this time I’ve needed help and there is help.” Wakefield is not currently using the transportation services, but said she is happy to use a variety of other CORP services including budget planning, food assistance, car service checks and legal and tax advice. Gillespie said she hopes more seniors will also take advantage of the legal services offered through CORP. “We provide those at four different locations on a monthly basis,” she said. “We have volunteer attorneys who come in and help with simple wills, quit claim deeds, powers of attorney and other documents. “All of the services are at no cost to the residents, such as non-litigation legal services, computer classes, tax filing assistance, socialization activities and transportation,” she added. For information about volunteering for, or getting services from, the St. Louis County Older Resident Programs, please call 314-615-4516.
Administered by Missouri Department of Conservation and the Conservation Federation of Missouri, Share the Harvest had hunters donating harvested deer meat to participating meat processors who then prepare the donated venison by grinding it into one-pound packages that are given to local food banks and food pantries.
servation. Zarlenga said the program was started to ensure that harvested meat was put to good use. “Hunting is the main tool to manage the deer herd,” Zarlenga said. “A number of hunters already got their deer and don’t really need a second or don’t have a freezer big enough or a place to put the second one. This is an opportunity to put the meat to good use.” Donations to food pantries are oftentimes boxed items so protein is a lot harder to come by. Venison has been championed for its lean, low-fat source of protein. Processing fees are covered entirely or in part by numerous local sponsors, along with statewide sponsors that include: MDC, CFM, Shelter Insurance, Bass Pro Shops, Missouri Chapter Safari Club International, Missouri Chapter National Wild Turkey Federation, Midway USA Inc., Missouri Food Banks Association, United Bowhunters of Missouri, Missouri Trappers Association, the Missouri Hunter Education Instructors Association, and the Walmart Foundation. MAY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 9
AroundTown
Music in the City Enjoy local bands at local restaurants on Fridays in May
Advertorial
Old Trails Revisited
Music in the City, a free Friday afternoon band series will be held at various restaurants throughout Clayton. For four weeks in the spring, people can enjoy an evening of local entertainment and a variety of food. Each band will play from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
May 5
• Morton’s, The Steakhouse – Dean Christopher Trio • The Libertine – Odd’s Lane • BARcelona – Acoustik Element
May 12
• Morton’s, The Steakhouse – Sarah Jane and the Blue Notes • Remy’s Kitchen & Wine Bar – Tommy Halloran • Molly Darcy’s – Johnny Chase
May 19
• Barrister’s – Musicology • C.J. Muggs – madBeats • Ruth’s Chris Steak House – The Ralph Butler Band
May 26
• Avenue – Sarah Jane and the Blue Notes • C.J. Muggs – Three of a Perfect Pair • Café Napoli – Miss Jubilee and the Humdingers
For more information on the lineup, visit www.musicinclayton.com. 10 | OUR TOWN |MAY 2017
BY RUSS PATTON, OWNER OF BYERLY RV The old 1954 Byerly trailer had been a good nanny to the Warren children and one would think it deserved retirement. But another generation arrived and one could almost hear the trailer anxiously whisper, “I have more stories to tell, things to show you, and miles to go before I sleep.” This time the old Byerly would be escorted by a 1951 Studebaker. A three week adventure in which the intrepid travelers, Russ and Adrienne Patton, would encounter the heat of the southwestern desert and the cold blizzard of the northern plateau. The Studebaker performed admirably. She huffed and puffed up the mountains, blowing off steam occasionally like a whale gasping for air. The old trailer compensated her efforts by helping to push her down the other side of the mountains. The old Byerly is really built, but it’s heavy. Overheating was a problem. We drove through the desert with the windows open and
e th th Wor ive Dr
the heater on! A Studebaker heater is like a small radiator located under the front seat. Adrienne sought relief in the slightly cooler back seat. The brakes were another story. I’m sure the trailer brakes saved us a couple of times. We headed into a blizzard in Wyoming and Kansas. The mountain passes were closed behind us so we decided to drive on through the storm. The trailer breaks kept us on the road when many cars were sliding off. But between the two extremes our journey was pleasant adventure. But the old trailer, built by Mr. Byerly, did finally retire and can be seen at Byerly RVs location in Eureka, Missouri. To read more about the history of the trailer and the numerous adventures of the Warren family pick up a copy of the whole story at Byerly. Byerly RV, just 15 minutes west of I-270 on I-44 in Eureka. Byerly RV, the Center of the RV World. Visit us at byerlyrv.com and on Facebook. 636-938-2000.
Byerly RV 295 East Fifth St. | Eureka, MO 63025
800-878-3325 | 636-938-2000 | www.byerlyrv.com
NonProfitProfile
It’s Your Birthday, Inc. brings celebrations and happiness to children in homeless shelters BY MARLA STOKER they will have a birthday of their own.” In the three short years they’ve been active in our communities, It’s Your Birthday, Inc. and Finch have already received six awards for the service they provide. In addition to financial donations from their community partners, they also accept donations of party supplies to be used when celebrating a child’s special day. Donations of cakes, cupcakes, ice cream, party decorations, $10 gift cards, and party favors, or small toys are gladly accepted in addition to volunteering your time, expertise or entertainment talents. If interested in learning more about how you can support this charitable organization and to see a list of all of their generous donors, please visit their website: itsyourbirthdayinc.org or call 314623-8301. Finch states, “Because of your support, a child’s birthday celebration today is a smile for a lifetime.” SUBMITTED PHOTO
Rolanda Finch was volunteering at It’s Your Birthday, Inc. offers three a homeless shelter when she realized different parties to create birthday that nothing was being done to cele- memories and discusses the options brate the children’s birthdays. with the shelter and parent(s) to find “As someone that loves to celebrate the best fit. Build-A-Bear generously my birthday and remembers almost donates a happy birthday bear to every all of the celebrations I had as a child, birthday child and clowns, face paintmy thought was – what kind of memory would the children in a shelter have?” Finch recalls. “I was especially concerned with the children that were hiding in domestic violence shelters, where none of their friends and family were aware of their location. This made me sad and I knew I had to create a better memory for them.” Realizing these facilities had a lack of resources to allocate to anything other than the absolute essentials, the idea of It’s It’s Your Birthday, Inc. founder Rolanda Finch. Your Birthday, Inc. was born and the celebrations began in September ers, magicians, balloon artists, danc2014. ers and game time add to the overall Three years later, this nonprofit has celebration experience. Finch emphabrought fun and memorable birth- sizes that the treats “come from mom, day celebrations to over 500 children not me, so when the child sees mom at that reside in domestic violence and the end of the day, he’s thanking her.” homeless shelters in St. Louis City and “The impact it has on the mom is County and the Metro East. Finch has tremendous,” shares St. Martha’s Hall confidently set her sights on growing Children’s Advocate Dallyda Tatchitheir coverage area. Bauda. “She has already has a lot “Our plan is to continue to grow in going on and for her to have a child the St. Louis and Metro East areas by with a birthday is stressful. When I tell offering more birthday-in-a-class op- her about It’s Your Birthday, Inc., the tions in more school districts and ex- weight is lifted.” pand our birthday-in-box option to Social Worker Cynthia Hendricks, domestic shelters regionally, then na- from the Holy Angels Shelter, describes tionally.” the children as being “ecstatic to know
MAY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 11
Farm Fresh Creve Coeur Farmers Market kicks off its fourth season with a variety of food, crafts and artwork BY NICHOLAS ELMES The temperature is warming, flowers are blooming and the days are getting longer; all of which means that it is time for fresh produce to start popping up all over the St. Louis region at a variety of farmer’s markets. For the past couple of years, one market, located at the Westgate Shopping Center in Creve Coeur, has had a major focus on locally produced food, crafts and artwork. “Everything has to be hand crafted, handmade or hand grown,” said Creve Coeur Farmers Market Manager Katie Dixon. “That is our rule.” 12 | OUR TOWN | MAY 2017
She said that rule, combined with a great location, quality items and friendly vendors has helped the market to grow year after year. The market kicked off in 2014 after community residents brought up the idea of a farmer’s market at the Love of Creve Coeur event. “It took about a year of planning and budgeting and finding vendors,” said Dixon. “We started with about 10 to 15 vendors and that has grown to 15 to 20 vendors each week this year. We have also quadrupled the number of people who are coming to buy at the market since the first year.” Dixon said moving the market from
its original location to its current home had played a big part in that growth. “The owners and management team at Westgate Shopping Center took us in and gave us a great place for the market,” she said. “It is right on Olive and so the visibility has given us a chance to get out in front of more people.” But, of course, visibility only goes so far, and it is the quality of what is for sale that keeps buyers coming back week after week. “We focus on locally-harvested fruits and vegetables,” said Dixon. “We also have antibiotic and hormone free meat market farmers offering a variety
of meats ranging from chicken and pork to beef and alpaca. “They always bring the best eggs for sale,” she added. “We also have local honey a variety of plants and flowers that are grown here. Everything is from within 100 miles of right here. “We also have a cheese farmer that is new this year,” she added. “They make artisan goat and sheep’s milk cheese which is very cool.” Dixon said that while fresh produce and meat are the mainstays of the market, they have also grown their vendor base to include a wide variety of offerings from local craftsmen as well. “In addition to all the fresh farm to table things, we have some local artisans who make their own jams from the local produce they get at our market,” said Dixon. “We have artisans who make jewelry and then some that make soaps and beard oils that are really cool. We have a sheep farmer whose wife sheers the sheep, who are her pets, and makes beautiful gloves and hats and things that people can wear. “We like to have a little bit of everything to offer someone who comes here,” she added. “That way our customers can shop at every one of our stands.” Dixon said the market also focuses on providing customers a fun and educational experience when they visit. “We have a variety of events at the market throughout the season,” said Dixon. “We partner with a pet adoption center that brings dogs every other week so can offer pet adoption. It
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also gives the community a chance to pet the dogs and the dogs a chance to get out into the community. “We also have demonstrations from artists on a regular basis,” she said. “We have one artist who brings her potter’s wheel and does demonstrations of pottery. We have also had wood turners come and have had some weaving demonstrations. The market has also been supported by the local fire and police departments. “Sometimes the police stop by and give things out, and sometimes they offer free document shredding,” said Dixon. “The fire department also comes by and we have a big truck day for the kids.” While the schedule of events for this year were still being finalized at press time, Dixon said the public can find the calendar on the market’s website at http://www. creve-coeur.org/index.aspx?nid=750 starting in May. She said the market also works closely with community groups to provide an educational experience through the market. “We are going to have Girl Scouts here earning a farmer’s market badge this year,” she said. “We like to bring groups to learn about the market and learn from the farmers and then take a healthy snack home instead of a cookie or something like that. We want to share the knowledge of healthy living and healthy lifestyles. We are also going to have a local author come this year to read a book she wrote on healthy kid lifestyles and healthy eating.” She said that message is one shared
“We started
with about 10 to 15 vendors and that has
grown to 15 to 20 vendors each week this year.”
e
MAY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 13
MAY 13 - Oct 14 8 am - 12 pm Westgate Shopping Center
by the vendors at the market every week. “Our meat farmers will provide recommendations of what to do with the different cuts of meat they are selling,” said Dixon, saying the produce vendors also provide helpful suggestions. “If it is peach season, for instance, they will bring a recipe for peach cobbler and will tell you how to cook what you are buying. They are very approachable and very friendly. That is what has made our market successful.” Purchasing items at the market is also easy, even if you don’t have any cash on hand. “At least 95 percent of our vendors accept credit cards, debit cards, cash or checks,” said Dixon. “There is also an ATM within easy walking distance if people need cash.” The market kicks off its summer season on May 13 and is held every Saturday through October 14 from 8 a.m. until noon at Westgate Shopping Center at 12320 Olive Blvd. in Creve Coeur. More information can be found online at www.crevecoeurmo.gov/market, or on the market’s Facebook page at www.facebook. com/crevecoeurmarket. Dixon can be contacted at marketmanager@ crevecoeurmo.gov. Confirmed vendors for this year include: Brushy Creek Farm (produce), Iron Hill Farm (produce), Sugarcreek Piedmontese (beef, eggs), Windy Lake Farm (pork, chicken, eggs), Wild Flower Farm (beef, sheep’s wool garb), Alpaca’s of Troy (Alpaca meat and woven goods), Baetje Farm Cheese, Cat’s Garden, Memorable Creations, Kay’s Kreations, Wicked Soaps, Ray Ray’s Kettle Corn, Honey Belle Farm, Doggie Wanna Cookie, Emmy’s Handmade, Zingara Gems, Tiles by Terri, Christie’s Jamaican, Hollyware Pottery, Girly Gardener, and Life Pack.
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14 | OUR TOWN | MAY 2017
OurThoughts
MOORE ON LIFE
Lunch Bunch
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o some, lunch is an inconvenience and by some, I mean, men. To others, and by others I mean, we ladies, lunch is an event. We believe it’s meant to be savored and treated as a special occasion we giddily looked forward to. To men, it’s only a means of loading up their digestive tracts. The other day a friend and I decided to go to lunch. Great idea. We then decided to bring our husbands. Whose stupid idea was that? Oh ya, it was mine. Hey, I hadn’t gone to the bank and was short on cash. I thought it would be clever to bring my ATM along and make him pay. So we ladies decided on a classy little place across town that had just opened. Good idea. Did I mention we brought along men? Stupid idea. Any who, we piled in the car and were on our way. As we entered the establishment, we discovered a small boutique just inside where we could shop a bit before our table was ready. We girls squealed with delight and began to handle the bobbles and trinkets and smell the candles and try on the jewelry and comment on everything’s level of cuteness. It became apparent to the males in the party that it was not “guy friendly”. They apparently handed in their man card at the door and had been de-masculinized upon entering. My husband was the first to bellow, “Oh geez…this is one of those girly places. How’d we get roped into this? I could have stayed home and sprayed my crabgrass and ate a Hot
MOORE ON LIFE BY CINDY MOORE Pocket!” His friend joined in, “Sheesh! There’s not another guy in sight. I’ll bet they don’t even change your oil here.” When seated, we suggested they try the feta salad. After ordering, both men looked at their plates and the complaints intensified. My husband muttered, “What kind of portions are these? There’s a leaf on my plate with a kidney bean on top of it.” “It’s arugula,” I said. “What’s an arugula? Sounds like a disease. Hey Doc, what are these things growing on my leg? Sorry man, you’ve got a bad case of arugula.” Both men laughed hysterically until feta came out of their noses. His pal chimed in, “I knew we were in trouble when I saw flowers on the tables. Never expect decent helpings when the place spends its profits on plants! If I’d a known it was gonna be like this I would have packed along a box of donuts.” Soon the bill came and more grumbling. “Holy Guacamole! What are we doing, paying off their kids’ college tuition?!” “No, shelling out for their florist,” said his buddy. Needless to say, we stopped off afterwards at a drive-in and got a couple of cheeseburgers for their dessert. Next time they can stay home with their crabgrass and eat a bag of cold hotdogs. MAY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 15
OurThoughts
Planning a trip to Monster Lake ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE BY AVALANCHE
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uring a conversation with an old friend, the topic of Monster Lake came up. Bill and his friend Carl were tentatively planning on going up there this summer; did I feel up to joining them? Hmmmm…. “Monster” was the name bestowed on the lake by Carl many years ago, after he got a glimpse of monstersized trout he had hooked, during a long battle before the fish broke the fishing line. No maps show an official name for the lake. Rarely visited, the lake is about 20 miles of difficult hiking away from a remote trailhead. It’s nearly a full-day’s drive to get to the trailhead, including several miles on a sort-of maintained dirt road. It’s not a place one decides to go on a spurof -the-moment. A journey back there is a serious undertaking. And it can provide a healthy dose of increasingly hard-to-find solitude – and some huge fish. Staci and I had visited there some years back. We dug out some old photo albums and a flood of memories flowed out of the yellowing pictures. Glaringly obvious was that we carried way too much stuff in our backpacks in those days. And I had a lot more hair back then. A little more reminiscing and we determined that the photos were nearly 30 years old – “some” years back, indeed. One outof-focus shot had me holding a big 16 | OUR TOWN | MAY 2017
fat trout hauled from the crystal-clear waters of the lake’s outlet. The fillets could have provided breakfast, lunch and then some. Of course I ate it all in one sitting, a welcome gluttonous feast after a week of eating freeze-dried backpacking “food.” I rummaged through some longburied maps in the back of a storage closet and found the appropriate maps of the area. Looking at a topo map of the terrain and the hike in, my knees began to ache while merely pondering the trip – a result of too many years of “way too much stuff in backpack.” Much of the hiking goes above treeline, including several miles off any kind of established trail. It will take a minimum of two days to get in, and the same coming out; two or three more days at the lake totals up to a week. Then, there’s another two days of driving to and from; not a quick weekend getaway. With maps and photos covering up all the flat surfaces in the kitchen and dining room, I moved on to pulling out gear from the storage closet. Most of the old, heavy gear on display in my three-decades-old photos has mercifully made its way to the second hand store and trash dump, replaced by lighter, newer gear. A 1.5 pound tarp has replaced the old six-pound tent. A six-ounce inline water filter has replaced the pump-style 1.5 pound wa-
ter filter. Other necessities have been similarly lightened, a benefit of modern technology. However, the number of backpacking trips I’ve taken in the last few years can be counted on one hand, with fingers to spare. Other obligations and priorities have taken the place of wilderness excursions for entirely too long. A week-long strenuous hiking trip sounds just right. Assuming that the trip materializes, our group will have an assortment of aches, pains and maladies that are the result of many years spent not sitting around. Bill is on the far side of his Medicare birthday, and has no more cartilage in his knees. He’s been considering their replacement for some time, waiting until he can’t put up with the factory issued ones any longer. I’m a decade younger, with a lower surgical count, but my medical adventures have typically been the result of highvelocity pursuits. Carl is somewhere in between Bill and me as far as age and decrepitude. We’ll be using hiking poles to reduce the weight on the old knees, and bringing lots of antiinflammatories. The trip won’t happen until the record-setting snowpack has melted enough to allow travel. That should give us plenty of time to get in shape; or maybe reconsider the whole thing. But we can’t put it off much longer, or the opportunity will be lost.
OurThoughts
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
2017 AUDI A4 ALLROAD SETS THE BENCHMARK FOR LUXURY AUTOMOTIVE WAGONS
For the 2017 model year, Audi Automotive is earmarking their A4 Allroad, as it’s quite the refined and worldly automobile. From the newly redesigned underside elaborate adaptive five-link suspension system to their all-new standard quattro all-wheel-drive with ultra technology, the 2017 Allroad sets a new elevated benchmark for the luxury automotive wagon segment. This reworked suspension allows for excellent precision steering, improved handing and overall driving comfort. Furthermore, the car’s exterior has been redesigned to spotlight Allroad’s adventurous spirit with design cues that reflect back to the A4 family. Vertical chrome slats on the Singleframe grille emphasize the vehicle’s increased ground clearance while more pronounced wheel arches add to its off-road distinctive design character. The interior accentuates a horizontally-oriented architecture to create a greater feeling of spaciousness. The prominent infotainment features include a large dash display and available Audi virtual cockpit which help creates a modern driver-centric space. This automobile also features a redesigned powerplant in the form of a 2.0-liter turbo engine and, for the first time, a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. This seven-speed tranny helps to maintain fuel efficiency plus still sets the stage for a sports car feel while planted be-
hind the wheel. EPA numbers show 23-mpg city/28-mpg highway while premium grade fuel is recommended. The new quattro all-wheel drive system utilizes an electronic multi-plate clutch along with a decoupling rear axle differential. This system allows
for intelligent, proactive control of the all-wheel-drive system to predictively modify the torque application as demands and/or road conditions require. For the 2017 model year, the A4 Allroad is engineered with a modern design element that clearly emulates the Audi branding DNA. The exceptional paint finish has a remarkable luster to it plus the overall fit and finish of the body panels and seams are unparalleled. The front end has an “in your face” presentation with smooth aerodynamic lines that transition to the car’s side silhouette for an upscale look of refinement. The new interior design includes greater attention to detail through functional refinements and additional driver-focused advancements. The uniquely designed acoustic windshield helps keep cabin-noise to exceptionally low levels. Improved interior space includes added shoulder and rear legroom with seating for up to five. The rear cargo area will easily accommodate most of your personal gear for outdoors activities. The 2017 Audi Allroad is offered in three trim levels to customers with excellent taste who relishe what they drive. Their Premium version has a starting price of $44,000. Their middle grade Premium Plus model shows an MSRP of $47,000 and their flagship Prestige edition has a pricing structure of $51,400. MAY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 17
CaringPartners
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Go Outside and Play Outdoor play provides physical and mental health benefits, including opportunities for exercise, creative expression, stress reduction and access to a free and natural source of vitamin D – sunlight. Before sending kids out to play, make sure they are wearing shoes to protect their feet from cuts, scrapes and splinters, and wearing sunscreen to protect against sunburns and harmful ultraviolet rays.
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onger days mean more time outside and more physical activity, which translates to increased potential for injuries. Playground falls, lawnmower accidents, campfire and fire pit burns are some common childhood injuries that can happen during summer months. These tips from Shriners Hospitals for Children can help your family enjoy a fun, injury-free summer.
Slide into summer safety Tips for a fun, safe summer
Playground 101 Before your kids head to the playground, keep these precautions in mind: • Teach children that pushing and shoving on the playground can result in accidents and injuries. • Remind kids to go down the slide one at a time and to wait until the slide is completely clear before taking their turn. Teach them to always sit facing forward with their legs straight in front of them and to never slide down headfirst. • Remind children to swing sitting down. Encourage them to wait until the swing stops before getting off and to be careful when walking in front of moving swings. Make a Safe Splash While playing poolside may be a blast, Safe Kids Worldwide reports that drowning is the leading cause of injuryrelated deaths for children ages 1-4 and the third-leading cause of injury-related deaths among those under 19. Prevent accidents and injuries with these tips to ensure your family’s safety around water: • Instruct children to never swim alone or go near water without an adult present. • Give children your undivided attention when they are swimming or near any body of water. • Always jump in feet first to check the depth before diving into any body of water. • Never dive in the shallow end of the pool or into above-ground pools. 18 | OUR TOWN | MAY 2017
Fun on the Water Boating, tubing and other water sports can be great fun but can also be dangerous. Here is what you can do to enjoy the water safely: • Always have children wear a Coast Guard-approved, properly fitted life jacket while on a boat, around water or when participating in water sports. • Educate yourself. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, 86 percent of boating accident deaths involve boaters who have not completed a safety course. • Always check water conditions and forecasts. Fire Safety Simplified According to the CDC, more than 300 children ages 19 and under are treated in emergency rooms for fire- and burn-related injuries each day. Use these tips to help keep children safe around fires, fireworks, grills and other heat sources: • Teach kids to never play with matches, gasoline, lighter fluid or lighters. Make a habit of placing these items out of the reach of young children. • Do not leave children unattended near grills, campfires, fire pits or bonfires. Always have a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby. • Take your child to a doctor or hospital immediately if he or she is injured in a fire or by fireworks. • Leave fireworks to the professionals. To see more tips, find activity pages and learn how to become a “Superhero of Summer Safety,” visit shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/safesummer.
OurLifestyle The early movie greats before the summer season
BY BRIAN GUERRO As usual, it takes a Marvel movie to officially open the summer season of movies. This year’s lucky flick turns out to be another (highly worthy) sequel, “Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2.” That’s just the beginning. When the rest of the films roll out we’ll also be treated with “Wonder Woman,” an R-rated-comedic-motion picture version of “Baywatch,” Ridley Scott’s “Prometheus”-follow-up called “Alien: Covenant,” “Rough Night,” “Girls Trip,” “Spider-Man: Homecoming,” “War For The Planet Of The Apes,” Christopher Nolan’s WWII epic “Dunkirk” and the list goes on. What was unexpected for 2017 is that for the first time (since anytime?) a year’s first quarter of movie releases (particularly during February and March) have been highly successful blockbusters – and with glowing reviews from critics. This is normally the “slow-season” for movies in almost any year. Knowing that the summer of 2017 will certainly out-perform the winter/ spring season, there’s definitely a lot to live up to this time around. Here is the list of this year’s previously-released blockbusters giving the “hot” 2017 season some serious competition. “Beauty and the Beast” (March 17) It’s not a complete surprise to know the live-action version of this animated classic would make a killing at the box office, thanks to the loyal fan base of the original hit and Emma Watson play-
ing the famous role of Belle. It’s difficult not to be impressed that the new version wheeled in over $400 million in the U.S. alone – and still counting. The reviews, although generally not as high as the original, are generally good – that appears to be good enough for its well-deserved success. “The LEGO Batman Movie” (Feb. 10) The $170 million U.S. box office hit was destined to succeed – with laughter – following the surprise success of “The LEGO Movie” – also a February opener – three years prior. The predecessor’s stand-out character was LEGO Batman, who nearly stole the show. Complete with Will Arnett’s brilliantly crude voice as the superhero we tend to love – and get tired of – it was only appropriate that THIS batman got his due to go solo in full, spoofing, force. “John Wick: Chapter 2” (Feb. 10) Opening the same day as “LEGO Batman,” we kind of expected that the Keanu Reeves sequel would not make as much money against the silly superhero’s stash. Also, a Keanu Reeves movie that’s a critic’s darling is, respectfully, a rare thing to witness. “Chapter 2” was a $40 million feature that brought in over $90 million with a 90 percent rating tying it up with “LEGO Batman.” This action dazzler proved to be even better than it’s surprisingly successful predecessor finding Keanu Reeves at a new prime in his career.
“Get Out” (Feb. 24) Jordan Peele is the first African-American director to have a feature debut that grossed over $100 million. This new horror classic received a near-impossible feat of a 99 percent Rotten Tomato rating from critics. The story is about a young interracial couple in which the boyfriend (Daniel Kaluuya) reaches the stage in visiting the parents of his girlfriend (Allison Williams). Everyone at the parents’ estate seems to be acting unusually “off.” As the suspense – and certain “types” of tensions – build all the way to the crowd-pleasing finale, the answers are so uniquely disturbing to the point that they could’ve only come from someone’s personal nightmares. “Logan” (March 3) It’s 2029 and Logan, aka Wolverine (Hugh Jackman), is in hiding across the Mexican border while caring for the ailing Professor X (Patrick Stewart). While trying to spend the rest of their days out of sight, a young mutant who’s being followed by dark forces will interrupt their plans of peaceful isolation. Jackman and Stewart are given the privilege to go “unplugged” in character as this is the first X-Men related flick strictly not for kids. Logan is forced to go superbloody in this ultimate final battle for survival. It also gets alarmingly emotional to the point where you may need a tissue. What a superb send off for Jackman and Stewart.
MAY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 19
OurLifestyle
Sweet Meets Spicy Fresh ideas for a fun fiesta menu
Blended Watermelon Margarita Fire and Ice Salsa Makes: 3 cups
Ingredients: 3 cups seeded and finely chopped watermelon 1/2 cup finely diced green peppers 2 tablespoons lime juice 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro 1 tablespoon finely sliced green onion 1-2 tablespoons finely diced jalapeno peppers Directions: Combine ingredients; mix well and cover. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving. 20 | OUR TOWN | MAY 2017
Makes: 2 margaritas
Ingredients: 2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed and frozen 1/2 cup water 3 ounces silver tequila 1 1/2 ounces lime juice 1 ounce elderflower liqueur pinch of salt lime slices, for garnish Directions: In blender, combine watermelon, water, tequila, lime juice, elderflower liqueur and salt. Blend until smooth. Pour into two chilled margarita glasses and garnish with lime slices.
OurLifestyle
Watermelon Margarita on the Rocks Makes: 2 margaritas
Nachos with Watermelon Avocado Salsa Makes: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 avocado, peeled, seeded and chopped 2 teaspoons lime juice 1/4 cup chopped cilantro 1 minced garlic clove 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies, drained 2 tablespoons diced red onion 1 1/2 cups diced watermelon 16 ounces fat-free refried beans 11 ounces corn tortilla chips 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated 1/3 cup fat-free sour cream Directions: Heat oven to 350 F. To make salsa: In medium bowl, combine avocado, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, chilies and red onion; toss to thoroughly mix. Add watermelon and toss gently. Set aside. Over medium heat, heat beans until hot. Mash if preferred. Place chips on flat, oven-proof plate or cookie sheet and top with beans and cheese. Repeat layers as desired. Heat in oven 10 minutes, or until cheese has melted and chips are hot. Top with salsa mixture and sour cream. Tip: Reserve some salsa to place in bowl for dipping.
Watermelon Simple Syrup: 2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed 1 cup sugar Watermelon Juice: 2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed 1/2 cup water Margarita: lime wedges coarse salt ice 4 ounces silver tequila 4 ounces watermelon juice 2 ounces lime juice 1 ounce watermelon simple syrup Directions: To make watermelon simple syrup: In small saucepan over medium heat, combine watermelon and sugar. Use potato masher to mash watermelon and sugar together, pushing out liquid and dissolving sugar. Simmer 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Pour mixture through fine mesh sieve set over bowl or jar, pressing watermelon to extract all liquid. Set aside to cool completely. To make watermelon juice: In blender, combine watermelon and water. Blend until smooth then pour through fine mesh sieve set over bowl or jar. To assemble margaritas: use lime wedge to line rims of two glasses with juice. Dip glasses in coarse salt and carefully fill glasses with ice. Combine tequila, watermelon juice, lime juice and simple syrup in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake until thoroughly chilled, about 30 seconds, and pour into prepared glasses. Garnish with lime wedges. MAY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 21
InDepth
Uncovering
Princesses Princess Perspective works to mentor the whole girl BY NICHOLAS ELMES
What does being a princess mean in today’s world? For Ameerah Fairley, founder of The Princess Perspective, it means helping teenage girls in the St. Louis region find the guidance and support to love not only themselves but their community. “There is a girl in our community who does not know she is beautiful,” Fairley said. “There is a girl in our community who does not know she is smart. There is a girl in our community who does not know she is brilliant. There is a girl in our community who does not know she is college bound. These girls need to know they are all of the above.” Through The Princess Perspective, founded just over a year ago, Fairley, hopes to provide both mentoring and peer support for spiritual, mental, emotional, social, economic and physical success for teenage
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girls. She said she had been playing around with the idea of creating the nonprofit for a number of years but was spurred into making it a reality after her mother died. So she formed a group of girls, initially from the Riverview Gardens area where she was teaching at the time, and started holding monthly meetings. “We have done a lot since then,” said Fairley. “The first thing we did was take the group of girls on a college tour of the St. Louis region, visiting HarrisStowe, St. Louis University, Webster, and UMSL.” That was quickly followed by service project which gives the girls a chance to give back and learn to be thankful for the things they have. “Our first project was a random act of kindness,” said Fairley. “The girls did not know what we were going to do. We
InDepth
had them come in and make sandwiches and we blindfolded them and took them downtown. They handed out sandwiches, bottled water, and chips to people in need. It was such a good and humbling experience.” The group also explores history and cultural issues. “We went as a group to the Little Black Dress exhibit at the Missouri History Museum, making it a girls’ day,” said Fairley. “We dressed up in our dresses and went to experience history, not just of fashion but the mourning process of women and how it started and ended.” Although the nonprofit started in the Riverview Gardens area, it has since grown to include teenagers from throughout the region. “We also have girls from University City, Maplewood, Richmond Heights, Ritenour and St. Louis,” she said. “Our girls come from a variety of backgrounds. We have some who are well
–to-do, some that come from single parent homes, some who are raised by outside family members and some who are in foster care.” Fairley said that while whether the group is helping homeless or visiting a museum, the key focus is on helping the girls to develop their own insight on what being a phenomenal female is all about. “We don’t want to set limits on our girls,” she said. “We don’t want them to think that success is a straight road because it is not. You are going to have twists and turns and bumps and bruises.” The group meets once a month, on the third Saturday, and always has a
different theme for their meeting. “Our last topic was self-esteem and building up your own self-esteem,” said Fairley. “Sometimes we do handson activities, sometimes we have guest speakers come in. This month we are going to be focusing on sisterhood, team building and hot to coexist in a sisterhood. We also recently had pro-
gram building relationships with parents and learning how to back down a little.” The group also focuses on having fun outings. “We do Fun Fridays on the first Friday of the month,” said Fairley. “We try to get out and have some fun outside of the educational piece.” She said the teenagers in the group are also working on being more involved in the community, currently working on planning a youth summit for the St. Louis region and some members are joining the Urban Leagues’ Youth Advisory Board. Fairley said the group is always looking for girls to join the group and mentors to help provide guidance. “In order to join, girls have to be between 12 and 18 years old and enrolled in school,” she said. Prospective members will have to complete an application, get a character letter of reference form an advisor or teacher, and provide their own letter of interest. “We accept girls from the whole St. Louis region.” To learn more about the program or to join, email Fairley at theprincessperspective@gmail.com, or call 314-7669098.
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May National Day of Prayer
cycling services will be provided by Midwest Recycling Center (MRC), a company certified in environmentally safe and secure recycling. They accept almost any item that has a cord or battery. With the exception of CRT TVs, computer monitors and items using freon, this recycling service is free.
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Mother’s Day
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Art exhibition: Olivette Community Center - Lobby Gallery presents Anne Wagner “Into the Wild” art exhibition at Olivette Community Center at 9723 Grandview Drive in Olivette through May 19. Regular exhibit hours are Mon-Thurs, 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Fridays 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.; weekend hours vary, please call 314.991.1249 to confirm.
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Community center grand opening: A ribbon
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Armed Forces Day
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National Missing Children’s Day
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Memorial Day
Cinco de Mayo
National Nurses Day
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Summer concert: Summer concert featuring Sweet-
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Recycling event: Maryland Heights is hosting an
ie and the Toothaches will take place at Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park (Tremayne Shelter), at Creve Coeur Park Picnic Site 1 at 13725 Marine Ave. in Maryland Heights. All concerts run from 6 to 9 p.m. and will feature pre-show entertainment from 6 to 6:45 p.m. Bands will perform 7 – 9 p.m. Inclement weather cancellations will be posted on www.RainedOut.com. electronics recycling event at the Government Center at 11911 Dorsett Road from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Please note that the Millwell entrance will be closed to incoming traffic in an effort to keep traffic flowing. Therefore, the Dorsett entrance will be used for entering the recycling event and the Millwell entrance will be used for exit. Re-
cutting and facility dedication will take place at 1 p.m. at the new Maryland Heights Community Center. As a component of these festivities, the city will also celebrate National Kids to Parks Day. Join Mayor Moeller at city parks as he encourages kids to get out and get active. There will be stationary photo booths to allow your family to strike funny poses. Mayor Moeller will be at the following city parks at these times to give away play equipment, take part in the photo booth fun and play games: 3 - 3:30 p.m. at Dogport; 3:45 - 4:15 p.m. at Eise Park; 4:30-5 p.m. at Parkwood Park and 5:15-5:45 p.m. at Vago Park.