St. Charles County , MO June 2019

JUNE 2019

LifestylePubs.com/StCharlesCounty

The Men's Issue

PRO GOLF TIPS

LOCAL CRAFT BREWERIES

A FAMILY OF BUILDERS

B BELLEVAUX

BELLEVEAUX BY EXECUTIVE HOMES An enclave of 30 luxury residences on private cul de sacs Customized homes f rom the $440’s Large lots, many backing to mature trees Located off Ken Drive, St. Charles 63301 636-978-8882

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

JUNE 2019 PUBLISHER

Judy Peters | judy.peters@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Cindy O’Hara | cindy.ohara@lifestylepubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

This One's for You, Guys

John Mohr, Julie Brown Patton, Amy Armour, Cindy O’Hara, Denny Walters Jr. CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Midwest Real Estate Media

SINCE THE MAY ISSUE WAS ALL ABOUT THE LADIES, WE THOUGHT IT ONLY FAIR TO FOCUS ON INCREDIBLE MEN IN THIS JUNE ISSUE OF ST. CHARLES COUNTY LIFESTYLE. While we definitely want to honor our dads on Father’s Day June 16, there are some other gents who also deserve recognition, including those who use their time, talents and generosity to help those less fortunate. Kevin Daniels, owner of Tribute Financial, is one example. See the story on page 26 about the school he’s building in Nicaragua.

Other inspiring stories are found throughout this issue, from the hard-working, successful father-son(s) team at Executive Homes here in St. Charles County to Tom Orr, the “Mountain Man” from Illinois who now lives off the land in the Montana mountains to our own mayor of St. Peters, Len Pagano, whose goal is to leave a lasting legacy.

Going for a night out with the guys? We’ll show you some great local craft breweries to grab a drink, watch a game or just catch up with your pals.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

If you’re looking to improve your golf game, check out the tips from a local pro on page 14. And to help you get in shape for all your summertime activities, we've featured a new kind of workout to get fit quick!

So kick back and enjoy some downtime with St. Charles County Lifestyle. You deserve it!

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Happy Father’s Day and happy June, guys!

Judy Peters, Publisher ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

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Proverbs 3:5-6 St. Charles County Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is

ON THE COVER 18th hole at Bogey Hills Golf Course 4

St. Charles County Lifestyle | June 2019

distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the St. Charles County areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in St. Charles County Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE JUNE 2019

FEATURES 12 If You Build It, They Will Come Father-Sons Team Building Dream Homes for Families

18 Brewing it Up Local Breweries Serve Up Flavorful Offerings

24 St. Peters Mayor Len Pagano Leaving a Lasting Legacy

18 24

26 Business Owner Builds School in Nicaragua Impoverished Students Learn ABC’s and Morality

12

26

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Locally Owned

14 DIY 26 Giving Back 28 Healthy Lifestyle 30 Inspired By 34 Lifestyle Calendar

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GOOD TIMES

Crisis Nursery Honors SSM with Award SSM Health St. Joseph Hospitals in St. Charles, Lake Saint Louis and Wentzville were honored with the Health Care Partner of the Year Award by Saint Louis Crisis Nursery at its annual Razzle Dazzle Ball. Lisle Wescott, SSM St. Charles Market President, accepted the award from DiAnne Mueller, CEO of Saint Louis Crisis Nursery. Earlier this year, a large collection of diapers were donated to Crisis Nursery by SSM Health staff.

Mayors' Charity Ball The St. Charles County Annual Mayors’ Charity Ball, held recently at the St. Charles Convention Center, raised money for four charities: Adam Morgan Foundation, Community Living Inc., St. Charles Borromeo Mini Vinnies and Unlimited Play. This year's theme was "Dancing with the Stars."

8

St. Charles County Lifestyle | June 2019

Streets is growing this spring.

Visit us and experience new tenants Cherry Blow Dry Bar, Yoga Six, Narwhal’s, and Play Street Museum, all opening in 2019.

Streets is your destination for shopping, restaurants, entertainment and more.

StreetsofStCharles.com | Hwy 70 @ S. 5th St.

June 2019 | St. Charles County Lifestyle

9

AROUND TOWN Photography by Carolyn Schlueter

children’s mental health services. In 2007, Bruce organized community members to create Shower of Love, a baby care collection drive, which has raised $966,000 for babies and teen parents in St. Charles County.

CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT SEPT. 13 FOR VFW NATIONAL HOME FOR CHILDREN The Landing of O’Fallon has teamed up with Fairwinds River’s Edge and AW Health Care for the second Charity Golf Tournament on Friday, Sept. 13 at Bear Creek Golf Course, to benefit the VFW National Home for Children. Event

FREE SKI SHOWS

organizers are looking for 36 teams, hole sponsors, a dinner sponsor, special event sponsors and

The Lake Saint Louis Water Ski Club hosts free

silent auction donations. Funds raised will go

ski shows on the following dates: June 21, July

to a great cause! For details and to register, visit

19, July 26 and Aug.16, at 6:45 p.m. as well as July

OneEightyFoundation.org.

4 and July 6 at 9 a.m. Location: Just west of Civic Center Drive and Technology Blvd at Jefferson Point at Lake St. Louis. You may bring alcohol,

LISTON DESIGN BUILD WINS HBA AWARDS For the third year in a row, Liston Design Build,

food, drinks, umbrellas, coolers, blankets and lawn chairs. Food trucks and bleachers are available.

of St. Charles, was recognized at the 2018 Annual Home Builders Association of St. Louis & Eastern Missouri’s (HBA) Awards Program at a ceremony held recently at Bogey Hills Country Club. This year's awards were: Custom Home of the Year, Bathroom Remodeling Project of the Year ($50,000-$75,000 Budget) and Aging in Place Redesign Remodeling Project of the Year.

SIP & SAVOR EVENT SEPT. 5 The Greater St. Charles County Chamber presents Sip & Savor Thursday, Sept. 5 from 5–8 p.m. at Lakeside 370 Park in St. Peters. They are searching for restaurants, wineries and breweries interested in being a vendor at this 21st annual event. If you would like to be a vendor or purchase tickets, call

WASH U RECOGNIZES BRUCE SOWATSKY

Lori at 636.946.0633.

The Brown School/Washington University recognized Bruce Sowatsky, executive director of the Community and Children’s Resource Board of St. Charles County, as a Distinguished Alumni for his

We

work in St. Charles County and across Missouri.

announcements

Bruce has been with the CCRB since 1999.

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Missouri counties in passing localized taxes for

LifestylePubs.com/StCharlesCounty.

St. Charles County Lifestyle | June 2019

accepted

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LOCALLY OWNED

ARTICLE CINDY L. O’HARA | PHOTOGRAPHY JOE WETTER, MIDWEST REAL ESTATE MEDIA

IF YOU BUILD IT, THEY WILL COME FATHER-SONS TEAM BUILDING DREAM HOMES FOR FAMILIES RICHARD NORDEN, THE FOUNDER OF

launched Executive Homes, Inc., forming a successful partnership

EXECUTIVE HOMES, KNOWS HIS WAY

and expanding the business.

AROUND ST. CHARLES COUNTY. After

After graduating from Mizzou with a degree in marketing and

all, he was born in what is now Historic St.

acquiring his real estate and broker's licenses, Craig brought an

Charles. While Richard prefers to keep his age

added perspective to the business. He often talks about spending

a mystery, he did begin building homes in the

summers as a kid working on job sites and learning the business,

county in the late 1950s and hasn’t stopped.

literally, from the ground up.

"It gets me out of the house," he quips.

pany, handling countless aspects of the business including Warranty

self in the home building business with com-

Services, making Executive Homes an even stronger family busi-

munities such as Berkshire Downs, Barton

ness. Company headquarters are located at 4680 Mexico Road.

Creek, Stonebridge Estates and, more recently, Addyston Parc and Auburn Terrace.

Currently, attention is being paid to two

new

upscale,

customized

com-

munities: Bellevaux and the Enclave at Foxborough. Both feature the Executive Homes signature of brick and stone elevations, but no two are alike inside. Buyers can customize plans to suit their needs and those of their family, and all benefit from decades of experience, expertise and forward-thinking designs.

In the mid-'90s, Rich's home building business, then known as Norden Construction, became a true family affair when his elder son, Craig, joined him. Together they

12

In recent years, Rich's younger son, Clayton, has joined the com-

Since then, he has made a name for him-

St. Charles County Lifestyle | June 2019

When asked how it is working with his sons, Richard simply says, "I couldn't ask for any better."

All of the Nordens are proud to be part of the company, building quality homes in St. Charles County so others may experience the place that has been home to the Norden family for generations.

CRAIG AND CLAYTON TALK ABOUT SPENDING TIME, AS KIDS, AT JOB SITES AND LEARNING THE BUSINESS.

ON WORKING WITH HIS SONS: “I COULDN’T ASK FOR ANY BETTER.” 1 1/2-story home at Bellevaux in St. Charles

Craig, Rich and Clayton Norden

June 2019 | St. Charles County Lifestyle

13

DIY

ARTICLE DENNY WALTERS JR.

Want to Hit Like a Pro? These Tips Will Get You Swinging in the Right Direction

WEIGHT MOVEMENT IN A GOLF SWING IS VITAL FOR BOTH DISTANCE AND CONSISTENCY. With proper weight movement, we can apply and use ground force in our swing. Conversely, if we allow our weight movement to get away from us, it will cause loss of distance, inconsistencies and poor golf shots.

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St. Charles County Lifestyle | June 2019

HERE ARE A FEW TIPS TO HELP WITH PROPER WEIGHT

5. You should finish with your weight on the lead foot near the heel.

MOVEMENT AND DISTRIBUTION:

Again, it’s OK if your foot moves.

1. At setup, make sure your weight is evenly distributed on both feet.

6. If you want to hit a draw, the weight should transfer to the trail heel

2. Weight should be on your shoelaces or middle of your feet; you

on the backswing and to the lead toe on the downswing. This will

should be able to wiggle your toes at address (ever notice PGA Tour

cause a more in-to-out swing path.

players doing this before they hit a shot?).

7. If you want to hit a fade, the weight should transfer to the trail toe

3. On the backswing, the weight should be on the inside of your trail

on the backswing and to the lead heel on the downswing. This will

foot (back foot). If the weight moves to the outside, we are forced to

cause an outside-to-in swing path.

slide into the ball on the downswing.

4. As we rotate forward, we should transfer weight onto the lead foot

If you would like information on taking lessons from a golf pro, email Denny

(front foot). If your lead foot moves, it’s OK.

Walters at Bogey Hills Country Club at dwalters@bogeyhillscc.com.

June 2019 | St. Charles County Lifestyle

15

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St. Charles County Lifestyle | June 2019

HEFEWEIZEN AND WITBIER

(wheat beer)…

Dunkles and Dubbel (dark beer)… Lambic (wild-yeast beer)… Krystal (filtered beer)… and so many others.

A visit to Europe is even better when it includes a discovery of the regional beer! Visit historic breweries, attend special beer tastings, learn about European beer-brewing techniques during fascinating onboard lectures and workshops, and enjoy a special dinner hosted by your onboard beer expert, while sailing the legendary rivers of Europe!

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Hope for a bright future Our friendly and cheerful Caregivers have been assisting St. Charles area families to remain at home since 1995.

Home Instead provides personalized and compassionate companionship, home help, personal care, transitional services, respite, hospice support and Alzheimer’s and other dementia care.

To us, it’s personal!

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Mental Health & Addiction Treatment Inpatient and Outpatient Programs for Adolescents, Adults and Senior Adults Specialty Programs Include: The Changing Pointe Addiction Treatment Center TMS Treatment for Addiction 24-hour confidential assessment with caring and compassionate counselors. No cost for the initial assessment.

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B r e wi ng It u p LOCAL BREWERIES SERVE UP FLAVORFUL OFFERINGS ARTICLE JOHN MOHR

18

St. Charles County Lifestyle | June 2019

Enjoy Authentic Italian Specialties at

...A Family Tradition!

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THE ST. LOUIS REGION HAS A GREAT REPUTATION FOR ITS BEER BREWING TRADITION, BEYOND

THE

WHICH KING

STRETCHES OF

BEERS.

St. Louis City and County have seen a renaissance in microbreweries that have gained national and international acclaim. Over the past two years, St. Charles County has witnessed a boom in the creation of several new microbreweries.

CONTINUED >

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June 2019 | St. Charles County Lifestyle

19

BREWING IT UP

(CON TI N U ED)

Steampunk Brew Works

STEAMPUNK BREW WORKS St. Louis Wine and Beer Making in Lamp and Lantern Village has provided equipment, ingredients, encouragement and inspiration to many a homebrewer over the years, and that influence reaches to almost all of the brewers in this article. Owners David Deaton and Erika Gibb took over the homebrewers’ paradise in 2006 and, on Memorial Day 2017, added Steampunk Brew Works to the location. David took his love of

Under the guidance of owner/brewer Abbey Spencer, Third

beer and creative personality to add a bit of mystery to their

Wheel Brewing has garnered a loyal following of beer drink-

beer menu. They rotate approximately 10 small-batch brews at

ers. The brewery offers much to visitors of all ages with weekly

any given time, but visitors may never see the same beer twice.

bluegrass music, board games, corn hole and darts. Third

Two microbreweries that are directly inspired by Deaton

Wheel boasts more than a dozen customer favorites, some

are Third Wheel Brewing Co., located off Interstate 70 in St.

of which are seasonal. They have a few guest varieties and a

Peters; and Petrichor Brewing Co., which just opened its doors

diverse food menu at the walk-up window.

last month in Winghaven.

20

THIRD WHEEL BREWING CO.

St. Charles County Lifestyle | June 2019

Petrichor Brewing Co.

PETRICHOR BREWING Petrichor Brewing owners Michael Crowell and his brother, along with Efrain Barretor, who also owns two microbreweries in his native Venezuela, are excited about their new venture. Michael garnered inspiration for opening his own venue after writing for a Missouri wine blog and wanting to focus on the excitement and creativity of microbrewing. The word “petrichor” means "the smell one experiences after an early morning rain," and customers can feel this vibe in many of the diverse flavors of craft beer. They offer around 10 of their own brews, a few favorites from other craft breweries, along with diverse and delicious food, including appetizers and more hearty offerings.

CONTINUED >

Third Wheel Brewing June 2019 | St. Charles County Lifestyle

21

BREWING IT UP

(CON TI N U ED)

GOOD NEWS BREWING CO. A second location for Good News Brewing Co. opened last month in Defiance. Owners Dan Tripp, Matt Fair and Josh Miller (head brewer) have another smaller venue in O’Fallon but saw a great opportunity in taking over the old Trail BBQ on the Katy Trail and Highway 94. This brewery allows them space to create more large-batch offerings, especially of their popular flavors. Dan says they are not a restaurant but a brewery that offers pizza. This brewery will enjoy lots of visitors on this very popular St. Charles County route.

Two Plumbers Brewery + Arcade

Good News Brewing Co. – Defiance

TWO PLUMBERS BREWERY AND ARCADE Rob and Katie Schowengerdt and John Simon opened Two Plumbers Brewery and Arcade near Lindenwood University in 2017. It is a little out of the ordinary as it offers not only several of its own brews and a couple of guest taps but also a “hopping” arcade. Two Plumbers may have had the most unique beer of all of those sampled on my weekend excursion: Montezuma Blessing, which includes all the ingredients of brewer John Simon’s grandmother’s famous brownie recipe, including cayenne, Azteca chocolate, vanilla and cinnamon. Amazing—I could taste all of them.

The discerning palate and the casual drinker will find something to love about every one of these establishments. Trying one or more is a great idea any day of the week and will make for wonderful weekend outings.

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St. Charles County Lifestyle | June 2019

THIS DOG ROARS

S T. C H A R L E S ’ 2 5 0 T H A N N I V E R S A R Y !

We are a proud member of the community for 192 years.

Following the pioneering spirit of Lewis and Clark, the Lindenwood University MakerSpace inspires creative exploration in our students, faculty, and community. Graduate student Nina Stewart took advantage of this experiential learning opportunity in the MakerSpace and created our roaring version of the explorers’ famous dog.

lindenwood.edu June 2019 | St. Charles County Lifestyle

23

St. Peters Mayor Len Pagano LEAVING A LASTING LEGACY ARTICLE JOHN MOHR

“LOOK TOWARD THE FUTURE AND WHAT WILL BE THE LONGTERM RESULTS OF THE ACTION YOU’RE THINKING ABOUT TAKING RIGHT NOW.”

“NEVER THINK JUST ABOUT TODAY.” St. Peters Mayor Len Pagano says these are words he applies to his life and is something he wishes to impart to others. He has been a part of St. Peters government in one form or another since 1983 and remains in St. Peters because of his love for his community.

“I have wanted our city to be the best place to live, work and play in the entire region.”

Mayor Pagano recalls two men who inspired him while he was still a young man living in North St. Louis. The first?

His grandfather, who immigrated to the United States from Palermo, Sicily, and eventually settled in this region.

“My grandfather truly lived the American dream and set a great example for me to follow,” Mayor Pagano says. “He was an entrepreneur who liked to look toward the future.”

Another influence was Msgr. Riper at St. Liborius Catholic Church in North St. Louis.

“He set a good example of ethics and honesty. He said, ‘Be honest, even if it gets you in trouble,’” Mayor Pagano recalls.

Mayor Pagano equates his successes and his legacy during his tenure with the improvements St. Peters has seen in its business and industry growth and especially in its residential areas.

“I’m so proud of all we’ve done to bring a great quality of life to our residents and to the entire region,” he says. “My hope is that I’ve been part of a team that has set a strong foundation to guarantee continued growth and stability for our wonderful city and keep it a great place to live, work and play for our children and grandchildren!"

What advice does the mayor give to future business and community leaders?

“Look toward the future and what will be the long-term results of the action you’re thinking about taking right now.”

St. Peters Mayor Len Pagano

words to live by “Never think just about today.”

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St. Charles County Lifestyle | June 2019

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June 2019 | St. Charles County Lifestyle

25

GIVING BACK

Business Owner Builds School in Nicaragua IMPOVERISHED STUDENTS LEARN ABC’S AND MORALITY ARTICLE AMY ARMOUR

IMAGINE HAVING TO CHOOSE BETWEEN DRINKING MUDDY, PARASITE-FILLED WATER AND DYING FROM DEHYDRATION. Families in the tribal village of Alamikamba in Nicaragua are forced to make this decision every day.

Kevin Daniels, the owner of Tribute Financial, visited the country multiple times to provide relief with fresh water wells and mobile food trucks. But he wanted to do more—something that would create a long-lasting impact. About two years ago, Kevin started a project, in association with St. Charles County nonprofit organization Harvest Initiative, to fund a new school for the children in Alamikamba. Kevin learned that 57% of children between the ages of 7 and 12 in Nicaragua do not go to school, and there are only 11 teachers for 20,000 children. Without an education or the ability to communicate outside of the region, their future is bleak.

Kevin committed $30,000, including proceeds of his book, A Practical Guide to Building Wealth, to fund a land purchase and construction of an elementary school. His project came to fruition in February 2019 as 70 kindergarten and first grade 26

St. Charles County Lifestyle | June 2019

Kevin Daniels at school site

students began their education. Each year, the school plans to add an additional grade.

At the new school, children will receive not only an education but also one meal a day and safe water to drink.

“When you come to school, you can’t concentrate if you’re hungry. We fill their bellies so they’re ready to learn,” Kevin says.

The children will also be able to bring home fresh water to their families each day.

In addition to learning the typical elementary subjects such as math, science, reading and writing, students will be taught the

While he put up the money to purchase the land and build the school, he expects an "investment" from each of the students.

This could be a donation of fruit, a weekly sweeping of the school or acting as a security guard at night.

“The family has to want it,” he says. “They can pay for their tuition in bananas, chickens or just about anything of value.”

The experience of bringing education to the impoverished country and his many missions trips have left him forever changed.

“It will melt the largest man,” Kevin says. “It will pull your heart right out of your chest. No one is ever the same.”

importance of character, ethics and morality.

“If you raise good people, you can change the community,” Kevin says.

For more information on how to help or donate, visit HarvestNic.com.

June 2019 | St. Charles County Lifestyle

27

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF QUICKHIT FITNESS

A QUICKHIT NEW FITNESS ATTITUDE LAST DECEMBER TO HELP PEOPLE GET IN LIFE-CHANGING SHAPE, 20 MINUTES AT A TIME. QuickHIT centers around the unique X2 Robotically Controlled Resistance machine, which has overhead and side pulleys, a foot plate, a sliding seat and an adjustable bench—complete with a computer screen providing real-time biofeedback.

“Our device and training program is the most world. Our process is data-driven to ensure results,” explains Micha Cooper, QuickHIT co-owner and vice president of business development.

QuickHIT founders assert that their methods revolve around science backed by eccentric training methods, a certified professional staff of training experts and the best fitness device available.

As an owner of Missouri’s only QuickHIT fitness studios, Micha says it’s a perfect full-body workout for individuals seeking expedient, successful and safe training. QuickHIT not only provides an incredible results-driven training program, but team members also assist clients with nutrition and supplementation as well, he adds.

Local QuickHIT clients range from 14 to 83 years old.

One to two visits per week typically is suggested; reservations are required for specific workout times.

5377 State Highway N, Suite 104, Cottleville, 636.206.8890 2386 State Highway K, O’Fallon, 636.206.8890 30 Fox Valley Center, Arnold, 636.393.3337 QuickHITFit.com

28

St. Charles County Lifestyle | June 2019

ONE-ON-ONE PERSONAL TRAINING ALL IN 20 MINUTES

effective, efficient and safe method available in the

OF FITNESS

QUICKHIT FITNESS LAB REPS LAUNCHED A

CHEST PRESS: A pressing movement that focuses on the pectoral muscles as a prime mover, while the triceps, deltoids and forearms assist.

L AT PULLDOWN: The lat pulldown engages the entire back, including the prime mover, which is the latissimus dorsi, followed by the forearms and biceps.

LEG PRESS: The leg press works to strengthen the entire lower body, consisting of the quadriceps, gluteus maximus, hamstrings and hip adductors.

June 2019 | St. Charles County Lifestyle

29

INSPIRED BY

Tom Oar: Mountain Man

ARTICLE STEPHANIE HOWER PHOTOGRAPHY NATHAN SATRAN

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St. Charles County Lifestyle | June 2019

“HE IS FREE WHO LIVES AS HE CHOOSES.” So reads

I turned 7 years old, my father taught us how to trick ride,

the sign standing sentinel over Tom Oar’s house. Tom

which is doing tricks on the back of a running horse.”

Oar is free.

Despite the dangerous nature of such a hobby, Tom

On an isolated stretch of the Yaak River Valley in

survived and quickly developed a taste for living on the

Northwestern Montana, Tom and Nancy Oar have made

edge. By age 15, the young daredevil discovered a new

their home from the simplest of means and the sparsest of

outlet to sate his adrenaline fix: rodeo.

luxuries. They subsist on the land, gleaning a living through

“My mother drove me to the edge of town, dropped me

Tom’s knowledge of an all but forgotten craft: brain tanning.

off with my bull rope and my rigging bag, and I hitchhiked

He is a master trapper and tanner, pitted against the harsh

to Ohio, and I hired on to ride bulls and bucking horses.”

realities of the seasons and the forests, who has honed his

His mother’s confidence carried Tom toward the

art to a level achieved by few before him. To watch him

warm glow of adventure on the horizon, which he

work is to glimpse a remnant of the past.

chased with characteristic poise and determination.

“I was born a hundred years too late,” he chuckles. “Or maybe 200 years too late.”

By the early 1960s, Tom had climbed the ranks of the International Rodeo Association and established

Raised in the country outside Rockford, Illinois,

himself as a champion rider. He thrived on the excite-

Tom believes he was conditioned for a rugged life-

ment of the sport and consistently made it to the

style. He and his older brother exuded an innate

finals, ranking in the top 10 time and again. Fortune

passion for the outdoors. They spent their childhood

turned on Tom on Valentine’s Day 1970. At the age

roaming free as often as possible, and trick-riding.

of 35, he found himself in the chute perched upon a

“My dad was a real horseman, and he passed that on to my brother and me,” he recalls. “When my brother and

massive bull called Woolly Bugger.

CONTINUED >

June 2019 | St. Charles County Lifestyle

31

INSPIRED BY

(CON TI N U ED)

“I usually dropped a finger in my bull rope, which meant that your hand was locked into the rope,” Tom explains. “The moment the chute opened, there was some big eruption.”

Skulls of man and beast collided, knocking Tom into unconsciousness. Bound tightly by the rope across the middle of the bull’s back, Tom’s hand pinned him to the thrashing animal.

“So now my legs and stuff are underneath his hind legs … he’s bucking and stepping on me quite hard.”

He admits it is the closest he ever came to death inside a rodeo arena. Nancy watched from the stands as he was tossed violently for

They were confronted by second thoughts about their move.

two agonizing minutes until they were finally able to sever the ropes

Although Tom had experience as a trapper before leaving Illinois,

that bound him. Tom left the arena on a stretcher and didn’t gain

in the ‘80s he knew little about earning a living from the trade.

consciousness for three hours, suffering a severe concussion and

Converting furs to profits proved to be a more challenging endeavor—

bruising over most of his body. Fate had something bleaker in store

until destiny intervened at an Indian Store in Billings.

for the bull.

“We just stopped and went in,” Tom says, “and there it was in black

“They told me that old Woolly Bugger, he died two weeks later,” attests Tom, the twinkle of a cowboy in his eye. “I think I gave him a concussion, too.”

and white; told you how the Indians brain-tanned.”

It was his first encounter with the ancient method, the method which would chart a new and unexpected trajectory for his life. The

While he returned to the chutes just a month after this brush with death, he never regained his former success.

“It was time for me to quit, you know, so I did.”

In 1981, he retired from rodeo.

Just as the pitch and yaw of a bronc feeds the spirit of a young man yearning for

book cost him $3, consisted of

“WE HAD NO IDEA WHAT WE WERE GETTING INTO OR HOW I WAS GONNA MAKE A LIVING OUT HERE. BUT I JUST HAD A FEELING THAT, BY GOD, I CAN DO IT. I CAN GET IT DONE.”

thrills, the rise and a fall of a mountain feeds the soul of a man yearning for peace.

“Nancy and I would come up to Montana in the summertime and go rodeoing out here,” he says.

The appeal of the Wild West beckoned, and they loaded all of their possessions into an old pickup truck. Interestingly, the truck they used to begin their life in Montana was bought with money earned from muskrat pelts, a small hint at the future that lay in store for the Oars.

“We had no idea what we were getting into or how I was gonna make a living out here. But I just had a feeling that, by God, I can do it. I can get it done.”

16 pages and instantly elevated his craft. It would just take a little bit more luck to turn his tanning into a lucrative business.

“Black Powder Rendezvous, they called them,” Tom says.

“They were recreations of the old fur-trade days in the Rocky Mountains when all the trappers would meet in one spot.”

Feeling well at home amongst this like-minded crowd of mountain men, he finally discovered a niche for his handmade wares. And when Tom does something, he is certain to do it well.

“The most prestigious clothing that you could wear at one of these rendezvous is brain-tanned buckskin clothing,” he says.

Patrons immediately sensed the incomparable quality of the brain-tanned hides Tom provided, and the hides began to sell at a remarkable rate. Tom found his peace.

Together, Tom and Nancy defied the odds. Danger lurked, isolation taunted, and the bitter chill of Montana winter bore down upon them;

And they did. Through old-fashioned hard work, Tom and Nancy

yet, they endured and prospered. Those who meet Tom, admirers and

trapped, hunted and tanned, living off the land in every sense of the

fellow trappers and so forth, will be greeted by a man who is both

phrase. Yet, the early years were fraught with challenges.

humble and kind. A man who is always willing to share his story and

“The first winter that we spent here was really, really cold,” Tom says.

his trade and his grin. He and Nancy’s contact with the outside world is minimized by a lack of internet or cell phone reception, but his story has spread nonetheless. When asked how he copes with the steady current of visitors making the trek to his property each summer, he just shrugs and confesses he would rather people like him than hate him.

At the age of 76, he continues to toil endlessly on his craft and their survival in the mountains.

“Amazing life,” he surmises. “I’ve enjoyed every bit of it. And as long as I can still do it, hell, I’m gonna do it.”

32

St. Charles County Lifestyle | June 2019

June 2019 | St. Charles County Lifestyle

33

JUNE

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

6

12

25

WOMENHEART OF LSL SUPPORT GROUP

SUPERJAM AT BEALE STREET CONCERT

STOP THE BLEED

Beale Street

Uncontrolled bleeding is the No. 1

Lake St. Louis

The Beale Street Concert Series, pre-

cause of preventable death from

This is a support group for women

sented in partnership with Y98 and the

trauma. This workshop will help

who are living with cardiovascular

Greater St. Charles Convention and

you learn ways to control bleeding,

disease or have suffered a heart

Visitors Bureau, features SUPERJAM

whether you only have your hands

attack. June's topic: The Warning

June 12 from 6–8 p.m. This free

or a first aid kit available. You must

Signs of Stroke and TIA.

music series takes place monthly at

be 14 to register. Registration is free,

Streets of St. Charles on the second

but space is limited. To register, visit

Wednesday of each month this sum-

SSMHealth.com/classes-events.

Lake View Medical Building,

7

mer. Bring lawn chairs, but no outside

25

food, drink or coolers.

AROUND THE WORLD DINNER: SPAIN Chandler Hill Vineyards

If you've ever thought of traveling to Spain, Chandler Hill's World Wine Dinner event is just

15

DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP SSM Health Cancer Care,

POP-UP MARKETS AT BLOOMING DAISY

Lake St. Louis

Join this group for its monthly meet-

Blooming Daisy Marketplace

ing to discuss topics related to con-

ture four courses of flamboyant

Don't miss the Pop-Up Markets

trolling and preventing diabetes, such

Spanish fare along with two wine

at

Marketplace,

as diet, exercise and foot care. There

pairings: one from its American

held on the third Saturday of each

will also be food demonstrations.

wine

month, featuring

These events are free, but please

the ticket. This dinner will fea-

portfolio

and

one

from

Blooming

Daisy

fresh

produce,

Spain's finest wines. For reser-

vintage items, fashion and home

vations, call 636.798.2675 or visit

decor. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Located at 5541

ChandlerHillVineyards.com.

Chestnut St. in Cottleville.

8

21

GARAGE SALE FOR ALZHEIMER'S

CAYMUS PAIRS WELL WITH DEFIANCE RIDGE

Home Instead Senior Care

Home Instead Senior Care, 1236C

34

St. Joseph Hospital, Lake St. Louis

RSVP by calling 636.625.5447.

Defiance Ridge Vineyards

Jungermann Road in St. Peters, is

Prepare yourself for a spectacular eve-

having a huge parking lot sale

ning as Chuck Wagner, the renowned

on Saturday, June 8 from 8 a.m.

owner of Caymus Vineyards and Wagner

to noon. All proceeds benefit the

Family of Wines in Napa, joins us for a

Alzheimer’s Association and help

shared winemakers dinner. You'll enjoy

provide services for families. If

live music by Dan Hoerle and Caymus

We are always accepting submissions

you have questions or would like

wines perfectly paired with our chef's

for events you'd like to see included

to make a cash donation, email

delectable menu. $175 per person

in our Calendar section. Submissions

Laura.McCoy@HomeInstead.com

(excludes gratuity and tax). Reservations

are accepted via the Contact Us tab at

or call 636.477.6025.

required.​​​​​​ DefianceRidge.com

LifestylePubs.com/StCharlesCounty.

St. Charles County Lifestyle | June 2019

to doing what you love Whether you are suffering from an injury or an illness, SSM Health Orthopedics can work with you to help you regain your strength and mobility, so you can get back to doing the things you love.

SSM Health Orthopedics offers a broad range of services that address the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal disorders and injuries. Our team of board-certified, fellowship-trained physicians, specially trained nurses and therapists are committed to delivering that exceptional care to our patients.

Visit ssmhealth.com/GetBack to request an appointment.

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