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2 | OUR TOWN | SEPTEMBER 2019
Our Town Volume 10 | Number 9 SEPTEMBER 2019 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
N THIS SSUE
Around Town Chamber Music Society of St. Louis announces 20192020 season and more.
Feature PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF Mathew DeKinder PUBLISHER EMERITUS/ GENERAL MANAGER Bob Huneke PRODUCTION Becky Brockmann Melissa Nordmann CONTRIBUTORS Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Cindy Moore STAFF WRITERS Brett Auten Charlotte Beard
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Surviving the flood Maryland Heights business in floodplain overcomes many challenges to reopen its doors. By Charlotte Beard
Our Thoughts Moore on Life author Cindy Moore does battle with a tricky backyard invader while Avalanche regains a little mountain solitude thanks to some very big rocks.
Lifestyle 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander is ahead of the curve for crossovers in Automobile Alley. “Angry Birds 2” is just the latest video game adaptation in Entertainment. Simplify back-to-school dinners with nutritious meal plans in For the Love of Food.
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In Depth Construction set to begin on $63 million POWERplex Sports Resort, a youth sports campus on the site of the former St. Louis Outlet Mall.
Events Calendar
Staff Writer – Charlotte Beard Cover Photo – Submitted
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AroundTown
A musical delight Chamber Music Society of St. Louis announces the 2019-20 season The eleventh season of the Chamber Music Society of St. Louis (CMSSL) promises classical music lovers a wide variety of concerts. Executive and Artistic Director, Marc Gordon commented, “There is always an air of excitement when we start a new season, but this one brings us into our second decade. In addition, we have been granted significant support for our concert series from the Centene Charitable Foundation. To acknowledge this unprecedented trust and confidence from Centene, we have named our subscription series The Centene Charitable Foundation Chamber Concert Series.” The cabaret-style concert series at the Sheldon holds six concert pairs in the Sheldon Ballroom plus two programs in the Sheldon Concert Hall. The season also holds a number of events featuring students from CMSSL education programs, the second year of the Cookie Concert series of Saturday matinee concerts at the 560 Music Center as well as the education outreach concerts and the eighth year of the Master Class Series. This series of nine classes serves over thirty St. Louis area schools and is free to students. On Oct. 14-15, the season opens with “No Place Like Home”, a celebration of American music including Gershwin, Barber, Adams, Bolcom, plus Dvorak’s American String Quartet. CMSSL offers two performances of each regular season program in the Sheldon Ballroom (3648 Washington Blvd., Grand Center, St. Louis, MO 63108) on Monday and Tuesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. (unless otherwise noted). Subscriptions are on sale now and information is available online or by phone at 314-941-6309. Single tickets are available via phone and will be released online Aug. 15. CMSSL performances are also part of the Concert Pass Collaborative program providing free admission for students. In addition to performances, CMSSL hosts programs to further educate area musicians. Visit chambermusicstl.org for more information.
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AroundTown
A generous gift Jim Butler Kia donates 2020 Kia Soul to local cancer charity Pink Ribbon Girls
SUBMITTTED PHOTO
www.essehealth.com
(From left) Brad Sowers stands with Michele Sowers, Heather Salazar and Cory Smallwood.
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Jim Butler Kia, a St. Louis-area Kia dealership and part of the Jim Butler Auto Group, donated a 2020 Kia Soul to Pink Ribbon Girls (www.pinkribbongirls.org), a charity that helps individuals who are battling breast and gynecological cancers by providing free direct services of healthy meals, housecleaning, rides to treatment and peer support. Started and headquartered in Ohio, Pink Ribbon Girls opened its St. Louis area operation in October 2018. The St. Louis operation serves individuals within a 40-mile radius of St. Louis City. Michele Sowers, a breast cancer survivor, wife of Jim Butler Kia President Brad Sowers and catalyst for this donation, offers a very personal viewpoint. “I was diagnosed with breast cancer last year. When I was approached by two friends who volunteer for Pink Ribbon Girls and learned more about the group’s mission, I was inspired to contribute. I cannot imagine going through treatments and daily chores without the daily help of my husband, kids and friends. This cause is very personal to me,” she said. “Pink Ribbon Girls is honored and humbled by the results of our first out-of-state launch in St. Louis, initiated less than a year ago,” said Heather Salazar, CEO/President of Pink Ribbon Girls. “The St. Louis area always embraces those in need, and Jim Butler Kia’s donation is one more example. We’ve been blown away by the amount of corporate and individual support we’ve received in such a short time frame. There is clearly a need for Pink Ribbon Girls services in Missouri and Illinois, and we’re thrilled to be able provide meals, rides to treatment, house cleaning and peer support to families who need it most.” “This generous donation from Jim Butler Kia will help us to significantly reduce our transportation expenses,” added Cory Smallwood, St. Louis Regional Director. “It’s critical to our mission that we can efficiently deliver nutritious and delicious meals for the entire family directly to the doors of our clients in order to make their lives easier.” “Jim Butler Auto Group annually supports “Making Strides Against Cancer,” an American Cancer Society fund for breast cancer research, information and support,” said Brad Sowers, co-owner and president of Jim Butler Auto Group. “Pink Ribbon Girls, with its one-to-one helping approach, is a natural addition to the cancer-related causes we support in the area.”
SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR TOWN | 5
AroundTown Advertorial
Captured in flight: in remembrance of Jay Ferger, March 10, 1955 - July 30, 2019
A salute to security
SUBMITTED PHOTO
BY RUSS PATTON , OWNER BYERLY RV BY BRETT
When entering Byerly RV’s showroom in Eureka, pause and lift your eyes. Around the perimeter of our 24-foot-high walls is a panoply of murals depicting scenes of America. The gigantic paintings were designed, constructed and painted by a local artist Jay Ferger. The work was all done on site in our service department with the assistance fellow artist Deborah Ferris. When Deborah introduced me to Jay, I explained that I desired something to enhance the indoor-outdoor ambience of our display area and to represent travels through America. Jay returned a few days later with a simple, but elegant plan. Snapshots of America as seen through the window of a motorhome would represent a journey around the country. On the southern wall were scenes from the south and the theme would continue including a total of eleven large murals which would wrap around the country and culminate in our nation’s capital, Washington, DC. We were fortunate to catch Jay between commissions. His credits are extensive including; Santa Fe Opera, Epcot, Maritz, St Louis Opera Theatre and an award from the Kennedy Center National Excellence Award for Scenic Design. I remember towards the end of the project Jay was concerned about the large 20-foot centerpiece of the Grand Canyon. Something was missing. He added an eagle soaring above the canyon for depth. I consider this addition as his signature. We are proud to display his wonderful work at Byerly RV and invite all to come see his celebration of America the beautiful. Learn more about Byerly RV on Facebook or byerlyrv.com. We are just 10 miles west of I-270 on I-44 in Eureka. Byerly has been recognized as one of the top 50 RV Dealers in America.
Byerly RV 295 East Fifth St. | Eureka, MO 63025 800-878-3325 | 636-938-2000 www.byerlyrv.com 6 | OUR TOWN | SEPTEMBER 2019
e th th Wor ive Dr
The St. Louis County Police Department (SLCPD) recently awarded Kimberly Cella, of Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT), with a certificate of appreciation for her many years of service and dedication to improving the area’s public transportation system. As part of the presentation, the SLCPD reinforced how her establishment of strong working relationships with local law enforcement and the Transit Advisory Working Group has helped to provide a safe, improved and more accommodating public transit system. Pictured (from left) are Colonel Jon M. Belmar, Chief of Police; Kimberly Cella, Executive Director of CMT and Captain Scott Melies, Commander of the Bureau of Transit Police.
Rolling on the river The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch are operating again after flooding High river levels have receded, and the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch are back to cruising on the St. Louis Riverfront. Those of all ages are welcome to enjoy a river adventure on the Mississippi River. The riverboats mark 55 years of operating on the St. Louis Riverfront this year. “Take a cruise without having to pack your bags. The riverboats offer something for everyone – from family fun on the St. Louis Riverfront Cruise, to date night on the Blues or Dinner cruise, to an evening of many laughs on the Comedy Theater Cruise,” said Robert Hopkins, Director of Operations, Riverboats at the Gateway Arch. “We’d like to thank everyone for their support during the recent riverfront flooding – help us celebrate the riverboats’ return by going on a cruise.” Cruise reservations can be made by calling 1-877-982-1410 or by visiting gatewayarch.com/riverboats. The Riverboats at the Gateway Arch are located below the south leg of the Gateway Arch at 50 S. Leonor K. Sullivan Boulevard. Parking is available on the Mississippi River levee in front of the boats for a cash fee.
AroundTown
A delicious outing A tasty event is about to take place in Maryland Heights The much anticipated “Taste of Maryland Heights” makes its debut on Sept. 27 from 5 – 8 p.m. in the Biergarten at SportPort International. This event promises something for everyone. For $25, you can sample the area’s favorite restaurants, indulge in cold beverages, take in the sweet sounds of the very popular band “Fanfare”, and even catch a captivating tug of war tournament between the city’s own heroes: Maryland Heights Fire Department vs. Maryland Heights Police Department. Round up your friends, family and neighbors to enjoy this tantalizing event showcasing amazing restaurants and bars. To secure your tickets and tables, go to www.eventbrite.com. Take advantage of the pricing specials: buy 10 tickets, get two free – or use promotional code: TASTY to receive $5 off your admission tickets (good through Aug. 20). Ample parking is provided around the SportPort venue, along with up-front handicap parking. Participating restaurants include Paul Mineo’s Trattoria,
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Syberg’s Restaurant, Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, Hollywood Casino & Hotel, Casa Juarez Mexican Town, Companion Baking, Johnny’s West, Amerisports Bar & Grill, The Brew House, Bristol Seafood Grill, Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant, Tucanos Brazilian Grill, Nothing Bundt Cakes and many more! Don’t miss out on your chance to taste: Lobster Ravioli in a sherry cream sauce, Italian Meatballs in a homemade meat sauce, Pulled Pork Sliders, Lobster Salad, Tacos, Wings, Specialty Drinks, Spirits, Wine, Beer and much, much more! The event will run rain or shine, and is made possible by the city of Maryland Heights, Westport Plaza, Commercial Bank, The Sarah Community, Quality Auto STL, LLC and Welsch Heating and Cooling. Volunteers are needed for the event; you will receive a free t-shirt and half-price ticket for participating. Please contact the chamber office to volunteer or get more information at 314942-2110 or lisa@mhcc.com.
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SURVIVING d o o l f e h t Maryland Heights business in floodplain overcomes many challenges to reopen its doors BY CHARLOTTE BEARD Golfport of Maryland Heights, originally known as Creve Coeur Recreation Complex, is no stranger to the woes of property flooding, but this year has been extremely difficult for the business owned and managed for 39 years by C. Dale Boggs and his wife, Carol Boggs. The 52-plus acre property located at 1 Golfport Drive in Maryland Heights closed for business due to extreme flooding June 1, 2019 and recently reopened Aug. 12. “We lost our prime two months of the year,” stated Dale Boggs. “That’s the money that my wife and I have been using to keep the business going.” Due to flooding, Golfport has not had the funds to maintain staffing beyond the husband-wife duo. “Earlier in the year we had two part-time employees,” stated Boggs. “At one time we employed six or seven people. We had people working the batting cages. We had people work8 | OUR TOWN | SEPTEMBER 2019
ing mini golf. We had people working the driving range.” Golfport’s more recent troubles due to the flooding began when flood waters extended into its parking lot. The business began sandbagging the day it temporarily closed on June 1. “People would have to walk through water to get up to the building and two-thirds of our driving range at that time had water on it.” Boggs shared that the business has experienced flooding three times in the past three years. In December 2015 water exceeded their berm at the back of the property which runs along Creve Coeur Lake. Though no water entered Golfport’s building due to the usage of sandbagging, their miniature golf course was destroyed. In 2017 the property experienced flooding again without water entering the building but their nine-hole short game course suffered some damage. The course was recovered for usage in 2018. According
to Boggs, the flooding this year resulted in nine-inches of water getting into the building which shut them down for business for 72 days. “We got water in our building because the levee district and the city were getting water on (Hwy) 141. MODOT was closing 141...” Boggs stated that Hwy 141 was closed for less than a day and explained that without forewarning from the city or levee district, water was pumped back onto Golfport’s property over a rock barrier that extends along Hwy 141 in front of the business. Subsequently, the water bypassed the sandbagging and their building became flooded for the first time since the ‘Great Flood of 1993.’ The berm behind the business that runs along Creve Coeur Lake was built after that period. Boggs also explained that the water comes off the fields located above their property going towards Route 364. “The city and the levee district have known about this problem 12 to 15 years,” stated Boggs. “They have been promising us that they were going to put a pump back (behind the building) to take care of this water – to keep it down. It’s not our water – it’s coming from everybody else.” Boggs also stated that this flooding destroyed their nine-hole short game course. “I have no bent grass left, which is the putting greens. I have no Georgia grass or rye fescue. All our landscaping drowned and died.” Boggs stated that the dry wall will need to be stripped from the building along with the removal of other items due to the flood creating mold. Boggs further explained, “Right now, we’re working outside of our building on the patio. We can’t use our restroom so we (had) to get Johnny on the Spots.” The former PGA golf professional and 1999 Maryland Heights Hometown Hero honoree for his work and contributions to youth sports in the St. Louis Metro Area, has three girls’ golf teams that practice on the property every fall season. He shared that he pumped water continually for a straight week because he was concerned that the water would deter practice resuming. He further stated that he averaged 17-18 hours a day pumping water a second week. The girls’ golf teams were able to resume practice Aug. 12. For additional immediate recovery efforts, Golfport had to acquire three more electric motors for its batting cages. All batting cages were slated to be reopened by Aug. 24. The property which was appointed the first nationally approved Practice and Learning Center by the PGA Board of Directors in 1982, is equipped with four baseball and two slow pitch softball cages, along with one flat pitch softball cage, all with arm machines. The business is still accessing damages to determine what it will take to fully recover. Guests can visit the property to use equipment without reservation on a first come, first serve basis. “Over the 72 days that we were closed, people saw the water and they couldn’t pull up to the gate. They (saw) all (the) dead plants. Things looked like a war zone. The word started to spread around that we would never open again. This is the sixth time we’ve gone through something like this (during the existence of our business) and we’ve always opened again.” Currently GolfPort is open weekdays from 10 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. On Saturdays they are open at 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Call 314-878-4653 for the latest updates. Visit the website for more information and pricing: https://golfport-stl.com. SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR TOWN | 9
OurThoughts MOORE ON LIFE BY CINDY MOORE
TRICKY RICKY
I’ve had a very unwelcome visitor call on me recently. No, not indigestion. Guess again. No, not politicians handing out flyers, although that does bring on horrific indigestion. I should be doubly prepared for those unwelcome visitors during the coming election. Note to self: Buy antacids in bulk this time next year. So the unwelcome visitor was a cute little Ricky raccoon. But once cute little raccoons claim your yard as their
personal territory they tend to wreak havoc and havoc he started to wreak. So my husband decided to set a trap for the pesky little bandit. First, he consulted the experts. He dropped in on one of those big feed and grain stores where you can buy all things farm related; anything from chicken feed to horse collars to tractor parts. I even saw a gigantic plastic bag filled with maggoty-looking mealworms for sale there. They were called, “Happy Hen Treats.” Who raises these creepy crawly insects? I suppose there is a need. The first batch is fed to the birds while the leftovers become politicians and distribute flyers. Note to self: Hand out Happy Hen Treats in exchange for any candidate passing out brochures next year. After receiving a crash course in raccoon trapping 101, my husband left with a big metal livetrap, a certificate in critter catching and his first employment opportunity: our backyard. All that education was no match for a wily raccoon. Day 1: Raccoon slipped arm through the outside of cage. Tuna bait is gone. Day 2: Unreachable tuna can bolted to bottom of cage. Raccoon smells a rat. Bait is intact. Day 3: Bait switched to irresistible marshmallows. Raccoon smells a sweet rat. Nada. Day 4: Trap is covered with a towel to disguise it. Raccoon isn’t buying it. Zip. Day 5: Trap is covered with logs. Cat kibble is sprinkled in front luring coon through trap entrance to can filled to the brim. Boom shiggedy boom! I could never kill the fuzzy little varmint. We transported it the recommended ten miles away and released it safely into the yard of Wilfred Liesalot. He’s running for office next year.
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 exBIGSTOCK cavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder.
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OurThoughts
Big ro cks help regain solitude
ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE BY AVALANCHE This past spring, the Forest Service extended the winter closure up the valley from our home for a few weeks longer than usual, due to heavier-than-normal snowpack, and the performance of some substantial road work. The previous winter had left most of the roads in the state in a rather rough condition, including the interstate highways, which, in some areas, looked as if they had been subjected to enemy bombing. During the closure, it was still easy to walk past the locked gate and see just what was going on up the valley. Initially, it appeared as if a very inexperienced operator was running the road grader; rocks and boulders were torn out of the road surface, previously functioning ditches were obliterated and the road appeared to be in much worse shape than before the work began. The equipment on site disappeared, which led us to believe the road would re-open in its rather sad condition. Several days later, the equipment re-appeared, and still run by the same operator, began to shape the road into a much more negotiable condition. We were actually pleased by the extended closure; the crowds here have gotten out of hand, and the return-to-solitude was a welcome episode, bringing back a sense of an earlier, quieter time. Traveling by foot for a couple extra miles didn’t bother us in the least. As the road work progressed, it became apparent that there was a method to the
grader operator’s madness. The large boulders ripped out of the middle of the road found their way to numerous user-created parking spots along the shoulder, where the rocks now became impassable obstacles to prevent bandit parking. New ditches were graded, and some smaller equipment was brought in to clean up the tight areas. A few loads of road base were dumped and smoothed in some of the worst spots, and the final result was a much-improved three mile stretch up to the campground. But, much like the extended gate closure, we quickly learned to appreciate the new road work and parking area reduction. The small colony of transients that had taken up residence in the valley is no longer to be found. Last summer’s influx of that crew had left a bad impression, with new campfire rings appearing regularly, despite a total ban on outdoor burning due to the extraordinary fire danger. Their scattered minefields of human waste dropped at every parking spot have not reappeared this summer, providing us with a literal breath of fresh air. The Forest Service has followed up their grading project with additional ranger patrols, contacting folks who try to camp outside of the campground. Such camping has always been restricted in this valley, but the prohibition was rarely enforced. Now, if one is able to cram a vehicle into a spot somewhere along the road, it’s a good bet
that they’ll be educated about the restriction and sent on their way. According to one ranger, there are two kinds of folks they contact: those that simply don’t know about the restrictions, and those that simply don’t care. The former are easier to deal with, and the latter will likely be contacted again at some point. In any case, the valley is much cleaner and quieter than in recent summers. Added to the road and camping issues, a spring flood tore out a foot-bridge over a creek along the wilderness hiking trail that begins at the campground, and goes many miles into the mountains. While there are a few ways around the now-missing bridge, they involve either two-thousand-verticalfeet of difficult climbing to the headwaters of the creek, or a very hazardous crossing through the rapid waters coursing down the creek gorge. The Forest Service reduced vehicle traffic, Mother Nature reduced foot traffic, and we’ve gained the benefits of living near a difficult-to-access slice of wilderness.
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.
SEPTEMBER 2019
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OurLifestyle
2019
MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER is ahead of the curve With the overwhelming popularity of crossovers and sport utility vehicles with consumers nationwide, some car companies may be a bit late in coming to market with a good selection to choose from, as development lead time often takes years. Having shared that with you, Mitsubishi Motors tends to be somewhat ahead of the curve with their 2019 Outlander PHEV GT-5 AWC, four-door crossover. To take a brief moment to help frame our thoughts in respect to a crossover, versus an SUV, in the simplest terms, a crossover is often built on a “unibody” underside platform whereas the entire welded base helps to form the vehicle’s structure. Unibody designs often have a more “car like” ride in respect to its road mannerisms. SUVs are generally designed on a steel frame rail assembly. This adds to the toughness and rugged foundation; however, at times SUVs tend to drive and handle more like a truck rather than a passenger car. Outlander, in my opinion has the best of both worlds as its ride qualities and steering dynamics are nothing short of world-class. As expected, the Outlander comes in both a conventional gasoline powered version along with their plug-in gas/electric/ Hybrid PHEV GT-5 version. Outlander demonstrates a high level of uniqueness on both models with its on-board rolling advanced 12 | OUR TOWN | SEPTEMEBER 2019
technologies for helping with fuel mileage and lowering its footprint when it comes to tailpipe emissions. The base gas model has seating for seven and are offered in their; ES 2.4 trim, SE 2.4, LE 2.4, SEL 2.4 and their top end GT 3.0 S-AWC configuration. The EPA numbers for the 2.4-liter standard engine ranges from 25-mpg city/30-mpg highway and it produces 166-horsepower. This four cylinder is matched with a CVT automatic variable speed transmission. The 3.0-liter, 224-horsepower V6 engine in the GT 3.0 model includes a six speed automatic transmission. It shows 20-mpg city/27-mpg highway and it’s recommended from the factory to operate on premium grade fuel. Worth bringing to light is the fact that both the gas and plug-in hybrid models have fairly comfortable seating throughout. Outlander is easy to drive and operate, it has an uncluttered dash assembly, it possesses good drive qualities plus it has a welcomed quiet interior, including plenty of added cargo carrying capabilities. The acceleration is somewhat spirited with the 2.4 engine and the ES is certainly geared towards the budget minded buyer with a starting price of $24,695, excluding shipping charges. Now, with the spotlight on their gas/plugin hybrid version, it’s fully loaded with a huge array of welcomed creature comforts.
It has a pricing structure of $35,795 and seats five. The seamless drive operation of the plug-in/Hybrid model works well with both street driving as well as with off-roading. While coasting downhill for instance, the regenerative power from the wheels will help in charging the battery pack. When plugged in with its remarkable DC “fast charge” feature, you can charge up to 80 percent of the battery power in less than 30-minutes. This version is also engineered to operate some 22 miles in just electric mode. With a notable limited warranty of 10-years or 100,000 miles for the powertrain components, you’ll find that competitive makes from Honda, GM, Ford and Toyota regrettably don’t offer such comprehensive coverage. You’ll welcome the contemporary exterior styling of Outlander plus it’s smartly laid out interior and the placement of controls and switches plus its benchmark safety enhancements. 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 the latest video game adaptation For years, arcade games and amusements have been turned into movies and vice-versa. In “Rocky III,” for instance, Paulie, played by Burt Young, encounters a pinball machine honoring Rocky Balboa, his famous brother-in-law. Feeling neglected by his sister Adrian and her husband, Paulie takes his frustrations out on the mechanical version of Rocky. That pinball machine could be found in bowling alleys and arcades when the movie was in theaters. More recently, “The Angry Birds Movie 2” and its predecessor were inspired by the adventure game from Finland’s Rovio Entertainment in 2009. Swine flu had caused a panic at the time, so game developers created sickly green pigs for the birds to battle. The pigs steal eggs from their nests, so the birds, who have special skills, launch an attack to save their unborn children. For both movies, Jason Sudeikis voiced Red, the bird who becomes a leader and a hero. In 1993, Bob Hoskins and John Leguizamo played two very famous plumbers in “Super Mario Bros.,” Samantha Mathis also was on hand to play Daisy, a university student who turns out to be an actual princess. It was an ambitious attempt to recreate the world of the Mario Brothers, but it didn’t light up the box office. Twenty-five years after its release, however, the film still has devoted fans. It even returned to the big screen briefly on its 20th Anniversary. In the late 1980s and early 90s, “Street Fighter” was
one of a breed of fighting games that popped up in arcades and convenience stores. A single player could face computergenerated opponents or go one-on-one with another player. Action hero Jean-Claude Von Damme starred as Colonel Guile in the 1994 cinematic adaptation of the game. In one of his final film appearances, Raul Julia played the evil General M. Bison, who tried to dominate the world with his super soldiers. 2015’s “Pixels” took video game/movie crossovers to a whole new level, however. Adam Sandler starred as Sam Brenner, a video game champion whose life didn’t turn out quite as he expected. After aliens view footage of a video game championship from decades earlier, they attack the Earth with characters straight out of the arcade. In this context, Brenner and his friends have “a particular set of skills” that enable them to take on the aliens. Directed by Chris Columbus, “Pixels” has an interesting premise but one that was never fully realized. Classic game characters such as Pac-Man, Q-Bert and the Centipedes from their own self-titled games do look great on the big screen. On the other hand, the performances, especially those by Sandler, Kevin James and Josh Gad, are somewhat wooden. Pokémon has enjoyed world-wide popularity and earlier this year, “Detective Pikachu” arrived in theaters. Ryan Reynolds lent his voice to the title character, a “pocket monster” who also happens to be a detective. Tim Goodman (Justice Smith) teams up with the Pokémon to find out what happened to Tim’s missing father who also was Pikachu’s partner. These crossovers sometimes work and fail miserably at other times. In early 2020, for instance, “Sonic the Hedgehog” will race into theaters. This popular character was created by Sega and first appeared in the early 1990s. Here’s hoping he still has the speed and charisma to attract audiences.
BY STEVE BRYAN
Born and raised in South St. Louis, Steve Bryan is now based in Anaheim, California, and has been allowed access to movie and television sets to see actors and directors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve is, at heart, still the same wide-eyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters. SEPTEMBER 2019
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OurLifestyle
Simplify back-to-school dinners with nutritious meal plans Back-to-school season can be cluttered between after-school activities, week end sports and evening homework – as well as making dinner each night. Creating a master meal plan with quick, simple and nutritious meals is an easy way to take control of your family’s hectic schedule. Start by stocking the pantry with staple ingredients that amp up the nutrition and flavor of your family favorites. American Pecans are a nutritious ingredient to have on-hand – among the highest in “good” monounsaturated fats and packed with plant protein, fiber and essential minerals – and “The Original Supernut” is versatile enough for breakfast, lunchboxes, dinners and on-the-go snacking. Adding one bag to your weekly grocery list provides a canvas for exploring new dishes that are both nutritious and delicious. In fact, according to the Food and Drug Administration, scientific evidence suggests but does not prove that eating 1 1/2 ounces per day of most nuts, such as pecans, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease. One serving (28 grams) of pecans contains 18 grams of unsaturated fat and only 2 grams of saturated fat. Updating your dinner repertoire doesn’t have to be complicated. Fussfree recipes such as Pizza with PecanHerb Topping, Baked Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders and Pecan-Crusted Air Fryer Pork Chops can be ready in less than an hour and put a fresh twist on classic favorites to please parents and kids alike. Discover more back-to-school mealplanning recipe inspiration and cooking tips at AmericanPecan.com.
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PIZZA WITH PECAN-HERB TOPPING Cook time: 40 minutes
Ingredients: 1 store-bought pizza dough 1 cup raw pecan halves or pieces 1/2 cup fresh parsley 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) 1 pinch salt 1 pinch pepper 1/2 cup jarred pizza sauce 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 1/2 cup thinly sliced red pepper 1/2 cup thinly sliced Vidalia onion
Directions: Heat oven to 400 F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly flour clean surface. Using rolling pin, roll out pizza dough to 1/8-inch thick and transfer to prepared baking sheet. Gently pierce dough with fork to prevent air pockets. Bake crust 10-15 minutes, or until lightly golden in color. In food processor, pulse pecans, parsley and garlic powder until mixture becomes coarse crumbs. Transfer to bowl and stir in Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if desired), salt and pepper. Set aside.
Using spoon, evenly spread pizza sauce over crust. Top with mozzarella cheese, red pepper slices and onion slices. Sprinkle 1/3 cup pecan mixture evenly over pizza. Transfer pizza to oven and bake 10-15 minutes, or until crust is crispy and cheese is melted. Serve with remaining pecanherb mixture. Notes: If dough instructions differ from recipe, use package instructions. Additional topping options include: pepperoni, olives, ham, bacon and roasted veggies. Leftover pecan-herb topping can be used for pasta and salads.
OurLifestyle BAKED PECAN-CRUSTED CHICKEN TENDERS Cook time: 35 minutes
Directions: Heat oven to 425 F. In food processor, pulse pecans until fine as breadcrumbs. In shallow bowl, mix pecans with panko, garlic powder, cayenne pepper and 1 teaspoon salt. In separate shallow bowl, whisk eggs until smooth. In third shallow bowl, add flour. Lightly season chicken tenders with salt and pepper, to taste. Working with one chicken tender at a time, dip in eggs, flour then pecan mixture. Be sure to press pecan mixture into chicken to be sure it is completely coated. Set chicken on baking sheet lined with cooling rack or parchment paper. Repeat with remaining chicken. Place chicken on center rack and bake 20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. To make Buttermilk Ranch Dip: In small bowl, whisk buttermilk, mayonnaise, sour cream, parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, dried dill and salt until smooth.
Ingredients: 2 cups raw pecan halves or pieces 1 cup panko or glutenfree bread crumbs 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon salt, plus additional, to taste 1 1/2-2 pounds chicken
breast tenders or chicken strips 3 large eggs 1 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blend pepper, to taste
1/2 cup sour cream 1 teaspoon parsley 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon dried dill 1/2 teaspoon salt
Buttermilk Ranch Dip: 1/4 cup buttermilk 1/2 cup mayonnaise
PECAN-CRUSTED AIR FRYER PORK CHOPS Cook time: 22 minutes
1 cup pecan pieces 1/3 cup arrowroot starch 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, plus additional, to taste 1 large egg 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, plus additional for serving 1 tablespoon water 2 garlic cloves, crushed 6 medium boneless pork chops, trimmed of fat
Directions: Heat air fryer to 400 F. In medium bowl, mix pecans, arrow root starch, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder and 1/4 teaspoon sea salt. In separate bowl, whisk egg, 1 teaÂspoon Dijon mustard, water and garlic. Cover pork chops in egg mixture then transfer to bowl with pecan mixture to coat all sides. Repeat with remaining pork chops. Place three pork chops in air fryer basket. Cook pork chops 6 minutes, flip, then cook additional 6 minutes. Set aside on plate. Repeat with remaining pork chops. Serve hot with Dijon mustard, if desired.
Serve pecan-crusted chicken tenders warm paired with Buttermilk Ranch Dip.
SEPTEMBER 2019
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InDepth
These artists’ renderings show the completed POWERplex Sports Resort, a $63 million campus for youth sports tourism.
Powering up Construction set to begin on $63 million POWERplex Sports Resort, a youth sports campus on the site of the former St. Louis Outlet Mall BY CHARLOTTE BEARD
After Aug. 30, construction will begin at the former St. Louis Outlet Mall to convert it to POWERplex Sports Resort, a $63 million campus for youth sports tourism. The project’s lead developer for the campus that will cover 160 plus acres is Big Sports Properties. “We have St. Louis County Councilman, Mark Harder to thank for directing Dan Buck to the St. Louis Outlet Mall,” stated Tim Davidson, city of Hazelwood Communications Manager. “When Dan Buck was trying to put the project in Chesterfield, they rejected his request for additional time to create the financing he needed for the project. So, Mark Harder suggested that (he) consider St. Louis Outlet Mall.” Dan Buck, Managing Partner for Big Sports Properties states, “We think it can generate over $300 million a year at maturity for the St. Louis region and that’s including all the hotels that will benefit 16 | OUR TOWN | SEPTEMBER 2019
in about a 20-mile radius around the campus. Obviously where people stay is also where they eat, so restaurants see a big up-tick. When you draw 2.9 million new visitors to a region that can have a huge economic impact – not with just what happens on our campus but throughout the whole 20-mile radius that surrounds us. When you look at venues around the country that have been built you see that the ripple effect of economic growth stretches well beyond the immediate acreage of the sports complex. It has great economic impact on the whole region. Because we run 50 weekends a year, there’s no real slow down because we have so many indoor and outdoor venues that allows us to have a very steady flow of tourism throughout the entire calendar year.” Davidson adds, “Hopefully it will be a successful endeavor and generate additional tax revenue for the city. It will be a great usage of a mall that has been deteriorating over the last few years and bring in more people (to the city). Phase
2 plans for the complex includes having hotels added to the complex to accommodate parents that bring in their kid for a sports tournament. They would be able to stay in the hotel and kids would have a chance to stay in some dorms that would be set up at the sports complex.” In addition, Davidson shared that the St. Louis County Council approved a $6 million donation to the project from the hotel tax fund for the county and city. He also stated that the project’s terms allow Big Sports Properties to request an additional $2 million in road funding for the area from the county. Both Davidson and Buck shared that one of the primary benefits for using the mall for the project is that the existing structure and layout require less construction than other sites that may have been considered. Buck shared that primarily the outer building structures will be retained. The POWERplex will accommodate baseball, softball, volleyball, beach volleyball, pickleball, basketball, seven on
seven football, hockey, dance, cheerleading, lacrosse, field hockey, ultimate frisbee and major wrestling events. Six new sports venues specifically created to accommodate the needs of each sport are being designed both inside and outside the 1.5 million square foot former shopping mall. Buck stated, “We’ll host over 180 events and tournaments a year and those will be in a variety of different sports. What’s great about our spaces and how we’re designing them – they can be used for multiple sports. For example, the volleyball and basketball venue that has 26 hard courts can be converted to 46 wrestling mats (or) 60 pickleball courts. We can host a wide range of expos and conferences in that space as well. It’s 170,000 square feet of large open space. So, with the ability to host a wide range of different activities, events, tournaments, conferences, clinics, camps – we will have a very diversified calendar that allows us to utilize the large spaces in a variety of different ways.” In addition to the hosting capabilities shared by Buck for events such as auto shows, boat shows, home and garden shows and sports expos, Davidson shared the added benefit of the resort for its Hazelwood youth. “As part of the terms and settlement agreement, (Hazelwood) is providing a $600,000 grant from the capital improvement fund to help fund construction of three ball fields on the property,” stated Davidson. “In return the city can use the field from April 1 through July 15 for 10 years from 5 – 11 p.m., Monday through Thursday. This allows the city to host two baseball and softball leagues at the venue.” In addition to facility accommodations for the sports venues, the campus will include what is stated to be the largest indoor dome in America at 750’ x 300’ feet and 120’ feet high. The air structure is being manufactured by St. Louis-based Arizon. Remaining tenant – Cabela’s – will be joined by other existing tenants in providing amenities at the resort: Integrity Fitness, Rusty Wallace Racing, M4 Group/VIP Theaters, Old Town Gringo’s, Jimmy John’s, Culver’s, Wetzel’s Pretzels and A & W Root Beer. Davidson states, “There’s going to be several other (things) that people can do while there for the tournaments that will keep them at the [resort] instead of having to go to different parts of the (St. Louis) area. They can stay on the complex and enjoy all the entertainment amenities while they’re in-between tournament games.” It’s been stated that the development, in partnership with Cissell Mueller Company, LLC, commercial real estate brokers, is also seeking an additional six restaurants, a ropes course, ninja course, or trampoline park partner, and hotel partners. The master plan also calls for an indoor/outdoor waterpark resort at the main entrance on 18.6 acres by 2022. Many local sports teams, clubs and organizations have plans to make the youth sports complex their headquarters for practices, training, leagues and competitions. St. Louis native Bradley Beal, a current NBA All-Star for the Washington Wizards and a member of the Big Sports Properties ownership team, will headquarter his Bradley Beal Elite Basketball Club and training program on campus.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
InDepth
At the media preview on July 9, St. Louis-based Arizon displayed a replica of the largest indoor sports dome in America, spanning 750 ft. x 300 ft. (5.2 acres) with ceiling of 120 ft., which will be added to POWERplex. (From left) Dan Buck, managing partner of Big Sports Properties stands with Hazelwood City Council members: Ward 2 Councilman Bob Aubuchon; City Clerk Chris Thomas; Ward 7 Councilwoman Ro Hendon; Ward 8 Councilwoman Mary Singleton; Ward 1 Councilwoman Carol Stroker; and Ward 5 Councilman Russell Todd.
At the new property’s press conference Beal stated, “This is something that doesn’t just transform sports in our region. This place will change lives and impact kids for decades to come. I’ve never been more excited to make a dream become a reality.” Also, among the local onsite teams will be the Gateway Region of USA Volleyball, St. Louis Crossfire Volleyball Club, and High Performance, which Buck states has 82 teams. In addition, the baseball and softball clubs that will be onsite are Chaos, Swarm, Prospects (softball), and St. Louis Pirates. “We will be merging three softball teams into a house team for girls’ softball that will have more than 30 teams,” added Buck. “We’re in negotiations with more than a dozen other clubs who are interested in headquartering out of the POWERplex.” Additionally, contracts remain in negotiation for some colleges and universities that desire to use the venue for athletics, student life and academic uses. Big Sports Properties’ seven-partner group also attributes the future success of the resort to its many partners and sponsors. They have received commitments from Heartland Coca-Cola, BJC/Christian Hospital (official medical partner), and Ameren Missouri who will be providing expertise on making the complex energy efficient. Construction will begin after Big Sports Properties closes on the land the end of next month. Demolition will begin to remove walls for the internal mall stores to open the spaces for the various sports venues. When the project is complete there will be six major sports venues, 13 restaurants, hotels and over 12 sports-focused retail stores. Many of the amenities are expected to open early 2020 and the sports complexes are slated for fall 2020. “We think this POWERplex is going to be something unique to the country in the fact that this is the first redevelopment of a mall into a major sports and youth complex,” stated Davidson. SETPEMBER 2019
| OUR TOWN | 17
SEPTEMBER 2
Labor Day
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Centene Community Ice Center Grand Opening Celebration The Centene Community Ice Center’s community Grand Opening Celebration is set from 10 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.at 750 Casino Center Dr. in Maryland Heights. The ribbon cutting ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. followed by an entire day and evening of activities. Outdoor activities for the whole family will wrap up at 3 p.m. Some highlights of the day include a showcase of local hockey, live music, giveaways and multiple free public skating sessions. Preregistration will be required for public skating during the Grand Opening Celebration and is open now at www.eventbrite.com/e/ public-skating-tickets-65274862872. For more information about the facility, Learn to Skate programs or public skating, visit www. marylandheights.com/IceCenter.
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National Grandparents Day
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Patriot Day
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Movie in the park The city of Olivette hosts Movies in Our Parks with a free screening of “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” at Stacy Park at 9750 Old Bonhomme in Olivette. The movie begins at dusk. All are welcome. Bring your coolers and lawn chairs. For more information call 314-991-1249.
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Constitution Day and Citizenship Day
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National POW/MIA Recognition Day
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Family Overnight A gentle introduction to camping for the whole family. Bring your sleeping bag and tent, and the city of Olivette will supply the rest at Stacy Park at 9750 Old Bonhomme in Olivette. Fee of $12 per person or $39 for a family of four includes dinner, dessert, campfire activity, night hike, stargazing (skies permitting), and breakfast. Overnight begins at 5 p.m. on Friday night and ends Saturday morning at 9 a.m. For more information call 314-991-1249 or email opr@olivettemo.com.
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First Day of Fall
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Gold Star Mother’s Day
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