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2 | OUR TOWN | NOVEMBER 2018
Our Town Volume 9 | Number 11 NOVEMBER 2018
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
PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF Mathew DeKinder PUBLISHER EMERITUS/ GENERAL MANAGER Bob Huneke PRODUCTION Becky Brockmann Melissa Nordmann CONTRIBUTORS Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Cindy Moore STAFF WRITERS Brett Auten Charlotte Beard
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N THIS SSUE
Around Town
The Scholarship Foundation awards $4.7 million to area students and more.
Our Thoughts Moore on Life author Cindy Moore is thankful for fun facts this Thanksgiving while Avalanche does battle with some tiny, itchy pests.
Feature Running for your supper Olivette’s Turkey Trot enters its fifth year of supporting the Harvey Jewish Food Pantry. By Charlotte Beard
NonProfit Profile Cinema St. Louis Presents the 27th Annual Whitaker St. Louis International Film Festival.
Lifestyle 2019 Fiat/Chrysler Pacifica effectively blurs the line between minivan and crossover in Automobile Alley. “Bohemian Rhapsody” a treat for Queen fans in Entertainment. Freshen up holiday entertaining in For the Love of Food.
In Depth St. Louis City and County join forces for a $175 million renovation of the America’s Center to help attract more meetings and conventions.
Events Calendar
Copyright 2018 Huneke Publications, Inc. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher.
Staff Writer – Charlotte Beard Cover Photo –Submitted
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11 12 16 18
AroundTown
Millions for education
Advertorial
The Scholarship Foundation awards $4.7 million to area students
I married that redhead
SUBMITTED PHOTO
BY RUSS PATTON While I was getting educated at Washington University I met a young redhead who said her family had bought a Byerly trailer. It turned out to be an original that Walter Byerly built in 1954. I had a 1951 Studebaker. I married that redhead and soon afterward Adrienne and I set out for a three-week adventure through the western states. Our decision to begin heading south on I-44 would be regretted later. The trip was unforgettable, although sometimes challenging. In the desert we had to operate the heater to keep the car from overheating. Unfortunately for Adrienne, the Studebaker heater consists of a “radiator” below the front seats. She retreated to be back seat. The trailer brakes were a lifesaver, but our venture into downtown San Francisco was harrowing without the trailer. I was constantly readjusting the brakes. Highlights included watching hot air balloons practicing for the upcoming event in Albuquerque, New Mexico, driving the Pacific coast highway from San Clemente to San Francisco, enjoying beautiful Oak Creek Canyon, and visiting friends and relatives along the way. We barely made it over the mountains before the October snows closed the passes. The ride home was harrowing. A blizzard followed us through most of Kansas, but we ploughed on because we didn’t want to stop in the middle of it. It all started in a Byerly RV. Why not see what you can get started in an RV from Byerly RV in Eureka? You can see the original Byerly at our location. Our retro-RV was a bit primitive. New RVs let you enjoy the comforts of home or any hotel lodging. Byerly in Eureka is celebrating 68 years as one of the Midwest’s oldest and largest RV Dealers. Visit us at www. byerlyrv.com
Byerly RV 295 East Fifth St. | Eureka, MO 63025 800-878-3325 | 636-938-2000 | www.byerlyrv.com 4 | OUR TOWN | NOVEMBER 2018
e th th r o W e D riv
Just over one year ago, The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis had closed ScholarShop after 57 years of operation, and the community was concerned about the future of the nearly 100-year old organization. A groundswell of community support has fortified its work in response to these significant changes. The foundation remains laser-focused on meeting pressing student needs, demonstrated by the awarding of $4,709,700 in interest-free loans and grants to 501 area students. That’s an increase of 20 percent over 2017. This year not only has the foundation awarded more dollars to students, but it has also added new programs and expanded existing programs, putting even more students on the path to success. The Scholarship Foundation promotes educational access and degree attainment for St. Louis area residents through a combination of financial support, advising services, and student-led advocacy. Diminishing state grant aid and increasing tuition costs places higher education out of reach for a growing proportion of area students. The cornerstone of the foundation’s work is to close the financial aid gap. Each year, the foundation provides last-dollar aid to 500 students and counsels more than 6,000 students and family members on navigating the complex college admissions process. Since its founding in 1920, The Scholarship Foundation has assisted 11,500 students with over $84 million in direct financial support to pursue postsecondary education. As the foundation approaches its centennial in 2020, it invites the community to celebrate the values put forth by its founding mothers who worked together to create an affordable path to higher education. For information about the programs and services of The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis, or to learn how you can help support students, please call 314-725-7990.
Supplies for kids Vantage Credit Union announced today they received over 2,500 school supplies for its annual School Supply Drive. The event provides items to St. Louis area students and teachers, so they have the tools they need to prepare and focus on learning. “For a child in need, the beginning of the school year can bring an extra set of worries,” said Jenny Sandifer, Vantage Marketing Specialist, and School Supply Drive Coordinator. “We’re happy to help ease the burden of starting a new school year by providing necessary supplies.” Employees and members of Vantage came together to pitch in 2,724 items and more than $1,300 in monetary donations. This year’s supply drive benefited KidSmart, which seeks to assist children in the area who cannot afford basic school supplies, and the Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition, which helps area children impacted by foster care. “Vantage is proud to continue supporting KidSmart and Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition,” Sandifer said. “They provide necessary supplies to children when they need them the most.”
AroundTown
Continuing to grow Lighthouse for the Blind-Saint Louis acquires assets of Badge Magic Lighthouse for the Blind-Saint Louis (LHB), a nonprofit manufacturing and packaging organization with a dedicated social service mission, has acquired all assets of Badge Magic, a company based in Bellevue, Washington. Badge Magic is a developer and supplier of “peel & stick” fabric adhesives for securing badges and other fabrics to clothing and uniforms, eliminating the need for sewing or ironing-on the fabric additions. Badge Magic is used by the Boy Scouts of America, Awana association of international evangelical Christian nonprofit organizations; and other major organizations in the U.S. and Canada as an approved alternative to sewing badges to uniforms. The acquisition of Badge Magic assets closed Sept. 21 and is the fourth acquisition by LHB Industries since 2014. It is expected to increase LHB revenues and employment by expanding operations, providing more employment for people who are blind or legally blind and increasing income to support Lighthouse “See the Future” programs for children and young adults who are legally blind in Missouri and southern Illinois. Terms of the acquisition of privately-owned Badge Magic assets are not disclosed. John Thompson, president of Lighthouse for the Blind-Saint Louis, also known as LHB Industries., Inc., said, “Acquisition and integration of Badge Magic assets is an organic expansion of Lighthouse operations because product assembly and distribution are among our core competencies. This acquisition provides the Lighthouse with a line of popular branded products giving us entry to new retail markets in addition to our current business in consumer, government and military sales.” “Badge Magic operations in Bellevue, Washington, will be closed and all existing inventory and customer service activities will be
absorbed by our plant, warehouse and shipping operations in St. Louis County,” Thompson said. LHB currently employs 48 people who are legally blind, and expects to hire at least two new legally blind employees because of this acquisition. Founded in 1933, Lighthouse for the Blind-Saint Louis is a nonprofit organization with a mission to assist individuals who are legally blind maintain dignity and independence through gainful employment, education and support services. All sales revenues directly support Lighthouse programs.
NOVEMBER 2018 | OUR TOWN | 5
Keep an eye out MDC seeks confirmed sightings of badgers, weasels and spotted skunks The badger, a master dirt mover, is one of Missouri’s largest mammals and a fierce opponent with lengthy front claws if cornered. Yet thanks to low population numbers and their nocturnal, rather reclusive ways, many outdoor enthusiasts have never seen one. Biologists for the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) want to know more about them, and the public can help. Laura Conlee, MDC furbearer biologist, is seeking photographs or carcasses of badgers. They help her add to a database that indicates how frequently badgers are observed and where they are distributed in Missouri. Conlee also seeks photos or carcasses for least weasels, long-tailed weasels and spotted skunks. All four species have small or declining populations in the state and are listed as species of conservation concern. Trail cameras sometimes capture photos or video of these mammals. Citizens sometimes photograph them, too. Furbearers are accidentally killed by vehicles along roadways and can be reported to MDC staff. Trappers help with badger reports. Badgers can be legally harvested in Missouri during the established furbearer season and fur sales are reported to MDC. Although, badgers are not a sought after species and few are taken.
There is no hunting or trapping season for weasels or spotted skunks. Any of those species accidentally trapped live must be released. Those found dead must be turned over to a local conservation agent. Carcasses enable positive species identification and the collection of skulls and DNA for scientific study. Badgers are squat, powerful, animals two to three-feet long and weighing up to 30 pounds. They have long claws on strong front legs used for tunneling burrows or for digging up prey such as mice or ground squirrels. Badgers feed primarily on rodents and rabbits. They need habitat where their food prey is present and where they can easily dig in soil for burrows and to catch prey. The prairie, woodland and river breaks habitats in the western, northwest and northeastern regions of the state are where they were historically most common, and where they are usually spotted today. Badgers can run 15 mph, swim capably, or dig a burrow and disappear underground in less than a minute. But for most people, a badger is a rare sighting. Only 24 badger sightings were recorded by MDC in 2017 and 2018. Those were based on sightings, trapper and hunter reports, or badgers found dead on roadways. The loss of prairie and woodland habitat with suitable prey is one reason for their population decline, Conlee said. Their
MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION
AroundTown
The Missouri Department of Conservation MDC wants to know more about badgers, and the public can help. Laura Conlee, MDC furbearer biologist, is seeking photographs or carcasses of badgers.
life habits also make them hard to see. “They’re nocturnal, and they live underground, you typically don’t see them crossing over the road in front of you,” Conlee said. “They’re pretty elusive to begin with, and since they are less common than many other furbearers, people don’t typically see them.” Spotted skunks are today seen primarily in the southeast Missouri Ozarks. The state is on the southern fringe of the least weasel’s range, and they are only seen in north Missouri. Long-tailed weasels may be seen statewide, but they are rare in Missouri. Weasels are small but fierce predators, preferring to eat rodents. Anyone with photos, video, or carcasses of badgers, spotted skunks, or weasels are asked to contact Conlee via email at laura. conlee@mdc.mo.gov. For more information about rare mammals in Missouri, visit http://mdc.mo.gov.
Golf for good Operation Food Search, a non-profit hunger relief organization, recently raised more than $83,000 at its 25th annual golf tournament. Proceeds will go toward ending childhood hunger and family food insecurity in the St. Louis bi-state region. The day-long event, which was presented by Ascension Health at WingHaven Country Club, included lunch and dinner, as well as live and silent auctions. Sponsors included Ameren, Enterprise Bank & Trust, Miller Lite, Russo’s Catering, St. Louis Community College - Forest Park, and Seeger Toyota. Pictured (from left) are tournament winners Art Kerckhoff, Rick Baur, Wayne Schroeder and Mark Norman. 6 | OUR TOWN |NOVEMBER 2018
SUBMITTTED PHOTO
Operation Food Search raises more than $83,000 at golf tournament
OurThoughts MOORE ON LIFE BY CINDY MOORE
Think thankful!
It’s coming up soon. The be-thankful day! I’m especially thankful I can haul out my fine china for one day a year and get my money’s worth out of it. Why did I ever invest so much china in that snooty tableware when I could have used the cash more sensibly, like for dinner reservations?! Thanksgiving is an interesting holiday. It’s the one time of year you can kick your diet to the curb and stuff yourself like a trash can after Christmas day. Nobody has to answer to anyone for eating half a pie or making Aunt Fiona pour the gravy into your drinking glass then asking for a straw. It’s all acceptable. For kicks and giggles, let’s look at a few facts about this special time of year. Fun fact: Sara Hale is considered the mother of Thanksgiving. She wrote a letter urging President Lincoln to make it a national holiday. She also wrote, “Mary Had a Little Lamb”. Obscure fact: When it was suggested that lamb chops be served as the main holiday entrée, Sara vehemently vetoed it and quickly tossed in the idea of turkey instead. Her voice was heard. And just in time, because a jaunty little ditty entitled, “Tommy Befriended a Witty Turkey” was about to be released. Good thing it was given the kibosh or we’d all be eating Spam with our green bean casserole and cranberries. Speaking of cranberries: that delightful little bog berry has come to be synonymous with the holiday. Fun fact: Did you know that back in the day Native Americans used them to treat wounds and dye arrows?
Obscure fact: When I was growing up and in the days before Thanksgiving arrived, we’d use the can of cranberries as a handy doorstop. Then afterwards, when the gelatinous gloop was dumped onto a plate and left untouched at the dining table; it was shoved into the back recesses of the refrigerator only to be discovered the following spring, hardened and dehydrated. It was then again used as a handy doorstop. Final fun fact: The turkey was Ben Franklin’s idea for the national bird. Can you imagine dishonoring the national bird by stripping it buck naked then stuffing its inners with wet bread and celery and tossing it into an oven till all its juices run out? Shameful! Obscure fact: That procedure is typically saved for crooked politicians! Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two selfindulgent 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.
BIGSTOCK
7 | OUR TOWN | NOVEMBER 2018
OurThoughts
Tiny
ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE BY AVALANCHE
PESTS make a
BIG IMPRESSION
Early fall in the Ozarks is a pleasant time, as the temperature and humidity have moderated from their sweltering summer highs and the throngs of summer tourists have subsided to modestly sized groups out on weekends. The roads are clear of traffic jams and the lakes can be enjoyed without dodging many other boats or jet-skis. My visit this year occurred at the time when the leaves were just beginning to turn, a bit earlier than usual – a time when a hidden menace lurks in the outdoors. As I was about to head for the Ozarks, my friend Scott in the St. Charles County area, warned that locally the chiggers were bad this year, and would probably be worse down south in the Ozarks. He was right. Trombiculidae alfreddugesi, commonly known as chiggers, (and frequently accompanied by an unpublishable descriptor,) were quite prolific this year down in the backwoods. Despite the locals’ gracious and generous cutting of weeds around the property prior to my arrival, the microscopic larvae were still out in full force, and must have been quite happy with my arrival, as I became a feast for a multitude of the little parasites. Despite myths to the contrary, the little creatures don’t burrow into the skin or suck blood, but rather attach themselves to the skin, and then inject an itch-causing, flesh-dissolving enzyme into the skin. The liquefied flesh is then consumed, nourishing the miniature larvae, and the
bloated feeders then detach themselves, and go on to grow up to be adult chiggers. The adult versions interestingly, no longer feed on flesh, but unfortunately, reproduce prolifically. The larvae usually detach themselves from the skin before the intensely itching welt appears, allowing them to retreat to safety after already spreading the yet-to-be-discovered hate and discontent. Thus, the suffering recipient of the itching welts is deprived of the satisfaction of smashing their tormentors flat, as with other stinging insects. Measuring only seven to eight thousandths of an inch, the pests are hard to see, and difficult to repel. Some folks seem to have a natural immunity to the mites, and are able to work outside all day in grass and brush with nary a bite. I envy those people, as the bugs have a natural affinity to me. Perhaps I smell like a Yankee, and some deep-seated resentment toward northerners is present in the Ozark-based itch-producing vermin. Though to be fair, the human inhabitants of the area have never displayed any such hostility, demonstrating only southern hospitality, despite my obvious lack of local pedigree. And, I’ve been mauled by chiggers before in Kansas - hardly a southern state - after sleeping in the grass for a few hours at a rest stop. I guess I’m just lucky. Remedies for the intense itching vary as to method and effectiveness. The most effective remedy is the most difficult to apply – simply avoid scratching the welts.
BIGSTOCK
They’ll begin to ooze and bleed on their own, and further irritation just makes things worse. Such a method of “not doing” is good mindfulness practice, but enough bites can drive a stoic Zen master into an insane frenzy of scratching. After being in the Ozarks for a while, and especially after swimming in the nearby lake, I seem to be less appetizing to the flesh-eaters. I’ve noticed the same phenomenon in the Rockies; that people who visit for a short time seem to be more enticing for insect pests. After a few weeks, the formerly harried visitors seem less bothered by the local parasites. Longer stays might be warranted. Now back at home in the Rockies, all the previously oozing welts have subsided into little red dots, with just enough itching to remind me of the nuisance. My search for the magic remedy and repellant will continue as time goes on. And my visits to the Ozarks might be pushed a little later – and longer – into the fall, when the leaves are at their peak, and the chiggers have gone to ground.
Avalanche is a functional illiterate who left the St. Louis area three decades ago in search of adventure. He enjoys motorcycling and all things outdoors. He lives with his wife and dogs.
NOVEMBER 2018
| OUR TOWN | 8
Running for your supper Olivette’s Turkey Trot enters it’s fifth year of supporting the Harvey Jewish Food Pantry BY CHARLOTTE BEARD While many people may spend their Thanksgiving Day morning preparing food for family gatherings, others may spend it preparing to feed strangers who have no food. There are various establishments that host annual free Thanksgiving Day meals but probably few (if any) that host a fundraiser that morning to further the cause of feeding those in need past that fourth Thursday in November. The city of Olivette will host its fifth Turkey Trot, a 5K Run/ Walk on Nov. 22, at Stacy Park located at 9750 Old Bonhomme Road. This will be the fifth year that 100 percent of the event’s proceeds have gone to the Harvey Jewish Food Pantry which serves over 6,500 people each month. Since the fundraising event began in 2014, the Trot has made it possible for Olivette to donate a combined total of more than $24,500 to the pantry. This year the committee for the event has a goal to raise over $8,000. Ruth Springer, Olivette Council Member shared, “For a run that started in its first year with 250 people and has grown now to over 1,200, that is pretty remarkable that we’ve been able to assemble that kind of money. I know in terms of donations there are lots of organizations that can raise that in a blink of an eye. But all things considered when you’re talking about profit from t-shirts and this year’s hat it’s pretty remarkable and 9 | OUR TOWN | NOVEMBER 2018
PHOTOS COURTESY CITY OF OLIVETTE
it’s great for the food pantry.” The annual Turkey Trot began when Jeff Springer, Chairman of Olivette Economic Development Commission, presented the idea to City Manager Barbara Sondag, who was receptive to the idea with the availability of sponsorship for the event. “Our founding sponsor has been Barnes-Jewish [West County] Hospital,” stated Jeff. “Ameren – this is their second year. This is the first year that Dobbs is our title event sponsor. So, all the money pretty much goes to the food pan-
try.” Olivette had a goal to do more events that would build the community and bring more people to its community. In addition to Jeff’s organizing, annual city support for the planning of this fundraising event comes from Sondag, Chief of Police Rick Knox, Fire Chief Scott Avery, Director of Parks and Recreation Beverly Tucker-Knight and Director of Public Works Bruce McGregor. Gerald Coleman, a former Olivette resident who now lives in Creve Coeur, donates his time to provide the graphics provided in the event’s communications materials. During the earlier part of each year, the core members do an assessment on the success of the previous event in preparation for the current year. The city manager signs off on any needed contracts for the current year and other logistics are started at that time. Event communications begin in June or July to pre-
cede the event registration which normally begins in August. Participants may register by visiting Olivette’s website (https:// www.olivetteparksandrec.com) and clicking on the Turkey Trot link on the home page, or by going directly to: https://register.chronotrack.com/r/41086. In addition to the long sleeve tech T-shirt (modern sports-specific alternative to a regular cotton T-shirt) that will accompany participant registration, this year both participants and non-participants can purchase an Olivette Turkey Trot custom branded race beanie (new add-on). Details for registration costs by age is available online. Packet pickup will be available on one of three days: Nov. 20, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. or Nov. 21, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Olivette City Center (1140 Dielman Road), and race day, Nov. 22, 7 a.m. 7:45 a.m. at Stacy Park, which also includes “same-day walk-up” registration. Springer also shared that people are welcome to drop off canned goods on one of the packet pick-up days or the day of the event. “There have been several hundred pounds of canned goods (donated to the pantry) over the past few years,” stated Jeff. Jeff also shared that the city is extremely supportive of the event. They donate the park, the public works staff that is needed and police officers come in on their day off. In addition, 22 paramedics will be on site in case they are needed as well as other needed city support staff without cost to the city. Also, there are over 20 volunteers for other needs the day of the event. The 5K run/walk will begin at 8 a.m. The event is chip-timed through ChronoTrack’s services. “If you want to be competitive,” Jeff shared, “there are some very competitive people (at the event). If you want to walk it, you can
walk. If you have a stroller or dog you are welcome (to join), we just ask that (you) start at the back of the pack (for safety). Dogs must be leashed.” Ruth shared, “The city sends out requests to houses along the route asking people to come out and cheer. We found that as these years have gone by more and more people are coming out and cheering. It’s really great. We’re going to have someone fly a drone over; hopefully we can get some good pictures.” Attendees can expect to enjoy music courtesy of a DJ who donates his time to the event. The event will provide water, power bars, and beer (for ages 21-and-up) donated by Urban Chestnut. Awards and prize distributions are expected to begin at 9:05 a.m. Medals will be provided to the top three males and females according to age group. In addition to the race bag that everyone receives which will have free offers and discount coupons from some local businesses, there will be an opportunity for attendance prizes for non-participants from 8:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. “(This fundraiser) brings out people not only from our community,” stated Jeff, “but the surrounding communities on a holiday morning. People get together as a family. They get together with their friends and have some fun in the morning rather than just hang out around home and not see their neighbors.” The committee for the Olivette Turkey Trot hopes that this annual event will not only continue to further their cause in supporting the Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry, but that it will continue to bring people into the community as well as unite people within the city of Olivette.
NOVEMBER 2018 | OUR TOWN | 10
NonProfitProfile
Cinema St. Louis Presents the 27th Annual Whitaker St. Louis International Film Festival
C
inema St. Louis showcases the best in international, documentary and American independent cinema. Believing that we discover something about ourselves when we learn Joe Edwards about others’ cultures and perspectives, Cinema St. Louis offers programs that provide glimpses of the human experience from around the world and John Goodman Karyn Kusama thoughtfully address issues of race, ethnicity and sexual identity. The organization was founded in January 1992, when a consortium of nonprofits and universities was established to present the first St. Louis Film Festival in April 1992. The St. Louis Film Festival Inc. was subsequently established as a Missouri not-for-profit corporation in July 1992 and received its 501(c)3 status from the IRS in April 1993. In 2002, the organization was renamed Cinema St. Louis to reflect its commitment to year-round programming beyond the festival. Now in its 27th year, Cinema St. Louis (CSL) presents five annual events and co-presents additional film-related programming through the year. The organization’s premier event is the Whitaker St. Louis International Film Festival (SLIFF). The 27th Annual SLIFF — held Nov. 1-11 — continues to provide the opportunity for St. Louis filmgoers to view the finest in world cinema — international films, documentaries, American indies, and shorts that can only be seen on the big screen at the festival. SLIFF will present our usual array of fest buzz films and Oscar contenders, including “3 Faces,” “Ash Is Purest White,” “Ben Is Back,” “Boy Erased,” “Capernaum,” “The Captain,” “The Chaperone,” “Cold War,” “Destroyer,” “Diane,” “Dogman,” “Everybody Knows,” “The Front Runner,” “Green Book,” “If Beale Street Could Talk,” “The Image Book,” “Little Woods,” “Long Day’s Journey Into Night,” “Mapplethorpe,” “Non-Fiction,” “Shoplifters,” “Support the Girls,” “Transit,” “Vox Lux,” “What They Had,” “Widows,” “Wildlife,” and “Zama.” SLIFF also honors seven significant film figures with our annual awards: Joe Edwards and John Goodman with Lifetime Achievement Awards; Jason Reitman with a Contemporary Cinema Award; Jim Finn, Jane Gillooly, and Karyn Kusama with Charles Guggenheim
11 | OUR TOWN | NOVEMBER 2018
Cinema St. Louis Awards; and Melanie Mayron with a Women in Film Award. As part of SLIFF, CSL presents the annual Georgia Frontiere Cinema for Students Program, Jim Finn Jane Gillooly which offers free screenings (both at venues and in schools) to St. Louis-area elementary, middle and high schools. Beyond SLIFF, CSL has Melanie Mayron Jason Reitman also steadily increased its year-round presence with additional programming. Since 2002, CSL has annually presented the St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase, held in July, which highlights work made by filmmakers with St. Louis roots. In 2009, CSL launched an annual French Film Festival. In 2011, that fest was refocused to concentrate exclusively on older works — it’s now known as the Classic French Film Festival and is held in March. In 2010, CSL officially added the LGBTQ-focused QFest to its annual lineup (CSL co-presented QFest during the two previous years). QFest takes place in April. In 2013 and 2014, CSL presented a children’s film festival, SLIFF/Kids, which featured both free screenings and filmmaking camps. The free filmmaking camps continue to be held in July and August — in conjunction with both the St. Louis Public Library and University City Library — but the family programming of SLIFF/Kids has now been incorporated into SLIFF. CSL added another annual event to its portfolio in 2014, when it took charge of the St. Louis component of the 48 Hour Film Project. The event occurs in June. CSL also holds individual screenings, film series, and educational programs throughout the year. In 2011, for example, CSL presented the highly successful Vincentennial, a 10-day celebration of native St. Louisan Vincent Price’s 100th birthday. CSL frequently works in conjunction with other St. Louis organizations, including collaborations with Citygarden, St. Louis Science Center, Washington University’s Film & Media Archive, Webster University Film Series, Opera Theatre of St. Louis, St. Louis Public Library, Missouri History Museum and Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis.
OurLifestyle
2019
FIAT/CHRYSLER PACIFICA EFFECTIVELY BLURS THE LINE BETWEEN MINIVAN AND CROSSOVER I’m honestly a bit confused if the Fiat/Chrysler Pacifica is a minivan or crossover; but regardless, and as defined by government standards, it’s positioned as a multipurpose vehicle. Besides being manufactured in a regular gasoline powered version, their hybrid model is offered in their “Touring Plus” trim level, as well as in their middle grade “Touring L” and top end “Limited” arrangement for 2019. Both versions include an unprecedented level of functionality, versatility, technology and bold exterior styling. This is coupled with the underlying fact that they reengineered this vehicle from the ground up with a clean sheet paper approach. It’s manufactured on an all-new platform and delivers class-leading fuel mileage and a seamless/advanced innovative hybrid powertrain system. I think it’s fair to suggest that the most important reason consumers generally consider a hybrid powertrain is based on the notable fuel mileage that’s achieved. Of course, that’s when compared to a conventional gasoline engine. To explore this a little further, it’s the first electric vehicle in the multipurpose segment of which gets an equivalent to 84 miles per gallon average. That’s when combined with city/highway driving. That in itself is a firm reason to rethink the fuel savings possibilities and favor the Pacifica Hybrid. Doing some additional number crunching, this people mover gets some 566-miles of driving range, with both the gas and electric drive modes working in unison together. Driving in just the electric mode, expect a range of around 33 miles. In part, the extended distance is accomplished by way of their eFlite single electrically variable automatic transmission. Pacifica Hybrid also includes two electric motors, both of which are capable of channeling engaging power to the vehicle’s frontwheel-drive chassis set-up. With more than 100 standard and available safety and security features, the bar is further raised when it comes to occupant security and collision mitigation. Pacifica certainly delivers an exceptional ride and favorable nimble handling. I know what you’re thinking - a multipurpose vehicle that handles “nimble?” It actually does, thanks to advanced suspension componentry. Noise reduction was in the sights of the 12 | OUR TOWN | NOVEMBER 2018
development planners list of areas to address. As a result, you’ll quickly grasp the increased cabin quietness, plus a lack of burdensome road vibration’s and harshness issues. Its body structure is fairly light yet quite stiff, making driving more responsive, thus enhancing overall steering agility. The vehicle’s overall body design hinges on a timeless footprint with a modern silhouette contour. The standard front and rear LED lighting further helps makeup Pacifica as a semblance of a premium product. The interior is roomy and comfortable, the dash as well as controls are uncluttered and easy to operate. All trim levels of the Hybrid include their 3.6-liter V-6 engine-rated at 260-horsepower and their easy entry second row seating. The factory offers four unique equipment group packages. This includes their Advanced Safety Tec package, Cold Weather option package, S Trim Appearance option and their U-Connect Theater feature with wireless streaming group. And don’t overlook their other convenience features offered that include their available Stow ‘n Vac integrated vacuum system, and segment-first handsfree sliding side entry doors and rear lift-gate assembly that open’s with the kick of a foot. Manufactured at their plant in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, the pricing structure with the ‘19, seven-passenger Pacifica Hybrid ranges from $39,995-$44.995. It generally is cross shopped with the Honda Odyssey in this segment.
BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN
David Finkelstein is a Master/Skill Automotive Service Technician, and a shop owner. He’s also invented garage service tools for mechanics and has served on both National and local Automotive Trade Industry Boards. He pioneered “Car Talk Radio” starting out with KMOX/CBS Radio and hosted “Auto Talk” on KFTK/ FOX News Radio for 15-years. David tests and evaluates new vehicles weekly and does some consulting with various auto manufacturers.
OurLifestyle
is a Queen fan’s delight T
he music of Queen has permeated my entire life. My parents were fans and even though it is a requirement of growing up that you reject the things your parents like, Queen was just too cool for me to kick to the curb. I even passed the bug on to my own kids who happily sing along to “Another One Bites the Dust” or “We Are the Champions” whenever they come on the radio. All of this is to say that I am way too close to objectively review a movie about the band and their charismatic front-man Freddie Mercury. I found “Bohemian Rhapsody” to be joyful and enthralling, led by a wax-museum-worthy performance by Rami Malek as Mercury. But I’m not at all convinced that it is a good movie. Helmed by Bryan Singer, a highly competent director by any metric, “Bohemian Rhapsody” is about as safe and conventional a musical biopic as you will find. This isn’t necessarily a problem, but when you’re talking about a movie about a band as daring and experimental as Queen, this almost feels like a disservice. Fortunately, the band’s music and story are powerful enough to blast through and pull you in. We meet Mercury when he was still known as Farrokh Bulsara, the son of Par-
si immigrants, and working as a baggage handler at Heathrow Airport in London. It’s not long after he meets Brian May (Gwilym Lee), Roger Taylor (Ben Hardy) and John Deacon (Joseph Mazzello) and the band begins their steady climb to stardom behind Mercury’s soaring vocals and flamboyant onstage persona. We get the tried and true rock n’ roll story arc with the rise from obscurity topped with excesses of fame and fortune on to ruin and humbling followed by a final grand redemption. As this formula plays out, some of the joy gets drained out of the movie. But when the music is front and center the thrill quickly returns. Moments in the studio as these four wildly different personalities gleefully tinker with iconic songs are pure magic. Unfortunately, Singer reverts to melodrama for the movie’s bass note and Mercury’s complex personal life involving romantic relationships with Mary Austin (Lucy Boynton), Paul Prenter (Allen Leech) and Jim Hutton (Aaron McCusker) too often become the sole focus of the film. The movie regains its footing after Mercury learns he’s contracted AIDS and wrestles with the personal and public implications of his disease and his sexuality.
The movie culminates in the band’s triumphant Live Aid performance, which gets recreated almost in its entirety. It would be easy to criticize Singer for dedicating a huge chunk of the movie to something anyone with access to YouTube can enjoy, but he earns the moment and it is fitting that Queen’s music is given center stage to top off the film. As a fan of this band, it would be easy to be disappointed that their movie is not a grand cinematic triumph. But the fact that there is a movie about Queen at all and that it’s pretty decent is good enough for me. You learn to take what you can get. “Bohemian Rhapsody” is rated PG-13 for thematic elements, suggestive material, drug content and language.
BY MATHEW DEKINDER
Mathew DeKinder is a film critic and member of the St. Louis Film Critics Association, and also serves as the publisher of the Community News.
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OurLifestyle
FRESHEN dUP g n i n i a t r e t n e ay holi
The holiday season is typically marked by gatherings of friends and family. Whether you’re hosting overnight guests, drop-in visitors or an important seasonal meal, taking a fresh approach to the menu can make the gettogether more special. As you prepare for the festivities, consider recipes that feature healthy ingredients such as versatile California grapes, which come in three vibrant colors – red, green and black – and can add a palate-pleasing crunch and plenty of taste to everything from main dishes to sides and even desserts. Heart-healthy grapes are also perfect on their own as a snack and their natural beauty can
help enhance any table as an edible garnish or fresh centerpiece. Using grapes as a featured ingredient in your holiday dishes can provide a fresh twist on seasonal dishes, such as this Grape Dutch Baby or these Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Grapes and Balsamic Glaze. For dessert, use the natural sweetness of grapes to create a smooth Grape Caramel Sauce that can be served as a topping for ice cream or other seasonal desserts. Find more holiday recipes at GrapesfromCalifornia. com.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Grapes and Balsamic Glaze Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4
Ingredients:
1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthwise 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil pinch of salt freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1 cup red California grapes 2 tablespoons ready-to-use balsamic glaze Nutritional information per serving: 150 calories; 3 g protein; 20 g carbohydrates; 7 g fat (42% calories from fat); 1 g saturated fat (6% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 30 mg sodium; 4 g fiber.
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Directions: Heat oven to 450 F. On baking sheet, toss sprouts with olive oil, salt and pepper, to taste, until sprouts are well-coated. Roast until deep golden brown, about 17-20 minutes, turning sprouts halfway through roasting. Stir in grapes and roast 3-5 minutes. Transfer to bowl and drizzle with glaze or drizzle platter with glaze and pile sprouts on top.
OurLifestyle Grape Dutch Baby Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4
Ingredients:
3 large eggs 2/3 cup all-purpose flour 2/3 cup low-fat milk 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 teaspoon salt 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
2 cups red California grapes, halved 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon (optional) confectioners’ sugar
Directions: Heat oven to 450 F. Put large (10-inch) cast-iron or ovenproof skillet in oven. With electric mixer on high speed, beat eggs until frothy then beat in flour, milk, vanilla and salt, and beat until smooth, about 1 minute (batter will be thin). Remove skillet from oven and add 2 tablespoons butter, swirling to cover pan. Pour in batter and return to oven. Bake until puffed and golden brown, 14-19 minutes. While pancake is baking, in another skillet over high heat, melt remaining butter and add grapes, brown sugar and cinnamon, if desired. Cook until grapes are heated through and sugar has melted. Spoon grapes over pancake, sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar and serve. Nutritional information per serving: 280 calories; 6 g protein; 22 g carbohydrates; 18 g fat (58% calories from fat); 10 g saturated fat (32% calories from saturated fat); 180 mg cholesterol; 380 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.
Grape Caramel Sauce Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Servings: 6
Ingredients:
1 pound green or red California grapes, divided 1 tablespoon lemon juice 3/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup water
1/3 cup heavy cream (optional) large pinch of salt ice cream
Directions: In blender or food processor, combine 12 ounces grapes with lemon juice and puree. Set aside. Coarsely chop remaining grapes. In medium saucepan, combine sugar and water then bring to boil, stirring a few times. Simmer without stirring, brushing down sides of pot with brush dipped in water if crystals start forming. When mixture has turned deep, golden brown, remove from heat and whisk in pureed grapes until smooth sauce has formed. Turn on heat and simmer until mixture has reduced by one-third and forms smooth caramel sauce. Whisk in cream and salt; stir in chopped grapes and serve over ice cream. Nutritional information per serving of sauce: 200 calories; 40 g carbohydrates; 5 g fat (22% calories from fat); 3 g saturated fat (14% calories from saturated fat); 15 mg cholesterol; 60 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.
NOVEMBER 2018
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InDepth
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
A COMBINED EFFORT
PHOTO COURTESY VALERIE SONNEVELDT
St. Louis City and County join forces for a $175 million renovation of the America’s Center to help attract more meetings and conventions BY CHARLOTTE BEARD
Many St. Louisans may be able to name the city of St. Louis’ mayor that was in office between 1965 and 1973. Many may even be able to tell you the connection between that mayor and The America’s Center Convention Complex. However, most people may not realize that since the time of Mayor Alfonso J. Cervantes’ spearheading of the original development of the Cervantes Convention Center (part of the complex) it hasn’t undergone any renovations. On Oct. 3, St. Louis City and County officials announced the America’s Center (AC) Next Gen Project estimated at $175 million, which will update and expand the complex. The official date for commencement of the project has not yet been announced. “I’m excited to announce a joint commitment between St. Louis
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InDepth City and St. Louis County in America’s Center,” said Mayor Lyda Krewson of the city of St. Louis. “This investment has paid off for the St. Louis region in the past and it will continue to do so in the future.”
“This
is a good deal for county taxpayers as the proposed revenue will be paid from out-of-town visitors who stay in our county hotels and motels.” ~ Steve Stenger, St. Louis County Executive
Following the opening of the Cervantes Convention Center in 1977, it underwent a south end expansion in 1993. Two years later The Dome at America’s Center opened. The growing competition with meeting/convention facilities and amenities in other Midwest cities has caused St. Louis officials to find this AC Next Gen Project necessary. Sources indicate that St. Louis has experienced a decline in event bookings for the downtown facility. “This is a good deal for county taxpayers as the proposed revenue will be paid from out-of-town visitors who stay in our county hotels and motels,” said County Executive Steve Stenger of St. Louis County. To clarify, the project will be funded by the extension of payments from the designated fund set up through the hotel and motel taxes collected in St. Louis City and County, which was initiated to build The Dome at America’s Center. There will be no new tax on residents. The AC Next Gen Project includes several goals. The addition of 92,000 square feet of exhibit space will be
This artist’s rendering shows what the expanded America’s Center Convention Complex would look like upon completion.
an expansion to the existing 502,000 square-feet of exhibit space. The expansion will allow larger events. Currently, the complex has a 28,000 square-foot ballroom; this project will create a 65,000 square-foot multipurpose ballroom and meeting area with 20,000 square-feet pre-function event space. The Gen Project also aims to improve service access to the current and new exhibit halls and ballrooms. Though the center currently has 12 loading docks that will be renovated, this investment will bring the addition of 26 new loading docks. All docks with be enclosed to enhance access and beautification of the surrounding areas. In addition, convention attendees and area workers will have the
privilege of enjoying a new outdoor pavilion. “The America’s Center plays a critical role as an economic driver for the entire region,” stated Kathleen ‘Kitty’ Ratcliffe, President of Explore St. Louis. “The complex is truly a window for the hundreds of thousands of event attendees who visit us and are hopefully inspired to return here for future leisure or business event purposes. On an annual basis, St. Louis hosts over 25 million visitors who spend more than $5.8 billion in our community. Expanding and upgrading the America’s Center will help us build on these visitor numbers and the 88,000 local jobs they help support throughout our region’s hospitality industry.”
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November 2 Trivia night Bring your family and neighbors for an enjoyable evening of friendly competition at the annual Creve Coeur Neighborhood Watch Association Trivia Night. This free event will be held in the Creve Coeur Government Center Multipurpose Room at 300 N. New Ballas Road in Creve Coeur. Doors open at 6 p.m. and trivia begins at 7 p.m. Food and light refreshments will be provided by the Creve Coeur Joint Crime Prevention Partnership. Each table will be strictly limited to eight-person teams and reservations are required, so please contact the Creve Coeur Police Department’s Crime Prevention Officer at 314-4422075 or email crimeprevention@crevecoeurmo.gov.
4 Daylight Saving Time Ends 6 Election Day 8 Open house Help design the Centennial Greenway: Extension through Olivette. Great Rivers Greenway and the city of Olivette are reaching out to the public to determine where the greenway should go and how to make the most of all the opportunities a greenway offers. The open house, held from 7 - 9 pm. at the Olivette City Center at 1140 Dielman Road in Olivette, will introduce the community to the Centennial Greenway and its potential in Olivette. Presentation and fun interactive activities in an open house format. Come and go as you please. There will also be kids crafts and “picture yourself on the greenway” photo op.
10 Marine Corps Birthday 11 Veterans Day 27 Movie screening The Silver Screen Series returns to showcase films that explore positive aging themes. “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” will be shown for free from 1 – 4 p.m. at the AMC Creve Coeur 12 at 10465 Olive Blvd. in Creve Coeur. Doors open at 12:30 p.m. The film concludes with a discussion led by a guest speaker.
22 Thanksgiving Day 23 Black Friday 26 Cyber Monday