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Our Town Volume 11 | Number 9 September 2020 Published by the Community News, Our Town is a monthly news magazine covering the cities of Creve Coeur, Maryland Heights, and Olivette. Circulation is 7,000 monthly through over 105 monitored newsstands guaranteeing 100% pickup. Additional issues are distributed online, and a free online subscription is available at www.mycnews. com
N THIS SSUE Around Town The 2020 U.S. Census ends Sept. 30 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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Parks on the ballot The revenue from the passage of Proposition C would be used to improve and maintain the city’s local parks and stormwater infrastructure By Charlotte Beard
Our Thoughts Moore on Life author Cindy Moore battles the coin shortage while Avalanche sweats out wildfire season in the mountains.
Lifestyle 2020 Dodge Challenger is a head-turner for any budget in Automobile Alley. Looking back at “Chariots of Fire” in Entertainment. Make taste and nutrition a priority for family meals in For the Love of Food.
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In Depth Saint Louis Ballet to hold virtual performances as the company looks to bring dance to audiences in spite of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Events Calendar
Staff Writer – Charlotte Beard Cover Photo – Submitted
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AroundTown
Assessing risk CV-19 Checkup is an online tool created in partnership between St. Louis Oasis St. Louis County and BellAge that allows users to assess risk for contracting COVID-19 BY CHARLOTTE BEARD
www.treesbywoody.net
St. Louis’ Oasis, an advocate for older adults, is continuing its mission to promote healthy aging through lifelong learning, active lifestyles, and volunteer engagement by taking an active role during COVID-19. Keeping with its educational approach, Oasis has developed a free online tool, CV-19 CheckUp, in partnership with St. Louis County and BellAge. CV-19 CheckUp, found at http://www.oasisnet.org/covid helps people understand personal risks of getting and spreading COVID-19 to others based on their behavior. The 10-minute questionnaire requires no personal information, phone number or email address. Results are generated immediately in an online report unique to the person completing the questionnaire. According to Juliet Simone, National Health and Program Director for Oasis, some questions help determine how severe an individual’s COVID probability might be. The tool assesses an individual’s living situation – single dwelling (i.e., house, or mobile home) or multiple unit dwelling such as an apartment. “Those things are variables that can make a difference (in) your risk (for) COVID,” stated Simone. “(The tool) also checks some of your daily or weekly habits as it relates to what kinds of places you are visiting on a weekly or monthly basis. (It) gives you some options like grocery stores, outdoor exercise, doctors’ offices and restaurants.” The tool was developed with older adults as the target audience but Simone states that it also benefits those with autoimmune diseases and other chronic health conditions (lung diseases, upper respiratory issues, those undergoing chemo treatment, pregnant women, and other immunocompromised individuals). Simone shared that one of the assessment results at the end of the questionnaire provides an individual’s percentage risk for the likelihood of testing positive for the virus based on current health and habits as well as the risk for spreading the virus unknowingly. In addition, the tool provides tips for reducing an individual’s risks if they score in a high-risk category. “One additional component that’s really important,” stated Simone, “is that (the tool) also asks about your feelings of isolation, loneliness, and depression. Loneliness and isolation are topics that have always been important to those of us working with older adults, but I think most Americans have had some taste of what it’s like to be isolated and lonely over these last five or six months.” ‘RISK’ CONTINUED ON PAGE 5
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AroundTown ‘RISK’ FROM PAGE 4 Though the tool is used to help individuals determine their risks for the virus, Oasis’ aim is to continue helping older adults live enriching lives through its various programs. In making the CV-19 CheckUp tool available online for selfassessment, particularly for older adults, Oasis hopes to help high risk individuals make informed decisions without losing sight of the social aspect of themselves. “This is one of those things that has been changing [for as] recommendations
as the pandemic has gone on and on and on,” stated Simone. “I think we all in the early days expected it to be maybe two or three months of shut-in and then we would be back to normal. ‘Everyone hunker down, and we can get through this together if everyone just stays home.’ Well now as time has gone, it is obvious that we are going to be in this for a lot longer. Right now, we (must) find a healthy and safe balance of living our lives while also doing COVID safely. So, what I would recommend folks to do is to stay as engaged (as they can) with people they love – fam-
ily, friends – whether it is church members (or) neighbors, in a safe way. If you are a member of a mega church and there are over 500 people, that’s probably not the best thing to do but if there (are) breakout sessions, participate in that. There is a chart of risks in activities at the end of the (CV-19 CheckUp). Going for walks outdoors is one of the safer things that we can do (in addition to) sitting with friends at a six-foot distance outside wearing masks. The benefit of being social in this particular case would probably outweigh the risk of being isolated.”
Making voting safer St. Louis’ Anheuser-Busch donating hand sanitizer for November elections across the United States According to a release from the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS), St. Louis-based brewer Anheuser-Busch is producing and donating more than eight million ounces of hand sanitizer to polling locations across the United States for this November’s General Election. “Missouri’s local election authorities have benefited from partnerships with a wide variety of companies and organizations, and this type of support from one of America’s most long-standing companies is another example of the cooperation and generosity that makes America truly unique,” said Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft. “I am proud that one of the economic anchors of St. Louis is showing the U.S. what it means to do business in the ‘Show-Me State’.” After consultation with Missouri’s local election officials, Ashcroft requested 1,050 gallons and 5,600 (8-oz.) bottles of hand sanitizer for use in polling places across the state in November. Prior to the June election, which was postponed from April 7 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, McCormick Distilling Company in Weston, Missouri donated 1,000 bottles of hand sanitizer that was later personally delivered to local election authorities by Ashcroft in May.
Ashcroft drove more than 5,000 miles and visited all 116 election jurisdictions. He delivered 17,000 face masks, 17,000 face shields, more than 500 gallons of sanitizer, 40,000 floor strips for physical distancing and 16,000 posters that encouraged six feet of distance between voters. At the same time, his office began distributing $4.5 million to local election authorities allowing funding for them to meet their jurisdiction’s individual needs. More recently, the office shipped 4,900 more face masks at the request of some election officials. In coordination with NASS, the National Association of State Election Directors (NASED) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Anheuser-Busch will distribute the hand sanitizer to state election offices that have requested it to help ensure the safety of voters and poll workers throughout the election process. Ashcroft recently served on the Executive Committee of NASS and his co-directors of elections are members of NASED. Voting information can be found online at www.GoVoteMissouri. com.
SEPTEMBER 2020 | OUR TOWN | 5
AroundTown
Fighting hunger
WWW.FOREVERCLEANGUTTER.COM
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Operation Food Search collects 53,000 pounds of food
Operation Food Search recently hosted its 10th annual Shop Out Hunger Day and collected more than 53,000 pounds of food. The event also collected nearly $14,500 in monetary donations, which includes a $5,000 donation from Schnucks.
Operation Food Search (OFS), a nonprofit hunger relief organization, recently hosted its 10th annual Shop Out Hunger Day and collected more than 53,000 pounds of food. The event also collected nearly $14,500 in monetary donations, which includes a $5,000 donation from Schnucks. The total donation, which is valued at $103,963, will provide 145,492 meals to the community. That means 42,200 individuals will be fed for one entire day. Shop Out Hunger Day is a summertime event designed to alleviate the area’s food insecurity. The region-wide food drive helps restock the shelves of both OFS’s distribution center and its 220 community food partner agencies. This year OFS partnered with more than 100 locally owned grocery stores, including Schnucks and Straub’s, to collect nonperishable food items and donations that will stay in each store’s community. OFS also teamed up with numerous community partners for the annual event including the Community Council of St. Charles, Jefferson County Hunger Task Force, and Franklin County Hunger Task Force. “At Schnucks, we are committed to leveraging our business expertise to help communities and organizations, like Operation Food Search, fight food insecurity and hunger,” said Schnucks Director of Corporate External Relations Schron Jackson. “As they always have during our 20-year Shop Out Hunger partnership with OFS, Schnucks customers responded generously once again this year when asked to help those in their communities in need.” “Straub’s was proud to partner again with Operation Food Search for its Shop Out Hunger Day, which was even more relevant this year based upon the heightened food insecurity due to the ongoing pandemic,” said Bill Hussey, Straub’s Forsyth Store Manager. “As a company that has served the region for nearly 120 years, we are extremely appreciative of our customer’s support for those who need food assistance.” 6 | OUR TOWN | SEPTEMBER 2020
AroundTown
A place to learn HealthWorks! launching free Fall Learning Support Camp to serve some of the city’s most at-risk kids With many school districts around the region opting to start the school year in a virtual capacity, some of the most underserved families – who often face food insecurities and lack reliable internet and the ability to provide learning support for their children – are left feeling helpless. To help provide a safe, learning environment for some of the most at-risk families in St. Louis, HealthWorks! Kids Museum St. Louis has announced it is launching a Fall Learning Support Camp. The program begins Aug. 31 and will serve 40 low-income students in grades K-4 who have been identified as at-risk. The Fall Learning Support Camp is free to participants, but HealthWorks! is asking for community support to help keep the program running as long as needed and ensure these children stay on track with their education. Beginning Aug. 31, 40 low-income students will call HealthWorks! their classroom. The students are being identified for the program by the Little Bit Foundation, which is committed to breaking down barriers to learning for students living in poverty through partnerships and programs that serve the needs of the whole child. The museum will offer socially-distanced, safe learning and healthy activities for nine full weeks during the first quarter of remote learning, all supervised and guided by Healthworks! professional staff. The camp will run from Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. so parents can continue to meet their work obligations. Each child will bring their school-issued devices each day, and they will receive a nutritious lunch, program supplies, as well as secure internet access that will allow them to complete their classwork. All Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines will be closely followed, including a daily health screening upon arrival for staff and students, mask requirements and increased sanitation throughout the day. The cost to the nonprofit museum for the Fall Learning Support Camp is $2,500 per child, which translates to $100,000 for 40 children for the full nine weeks. While HealthWorks! has applied for grant funding
to offset the costs of making this program free for underserved families, support from the community will be essential to bridge any funding gaps and help ensure each child has the opportunity to be a successful participant in the program. By sponsoring the program, businesses and individuals in the community can help the participating students stay safe, healthy and on track with their online classes. The levels of sponsorship are as follows: • Program Title Sponsor $100,000 • 40 children for one full week $10,000 • One child for the entire first quarter of the school year $2,500 • One child for one week $275 • One child for one day $55 Donations can be made by credit card by visiting hwstl.org/healthworks-falllearning-support-camp/ and clicking on the “Become a Sponsor” button or by calling 314.241.7391. Those wishing to send a donation by check can mail to HealthWorks! Kids’ Museum St. Louis, 1100 Macklind Ave., St. Louis, MO, 63110. “Our top priority is to give children in the St. Louis community - regardless of income level or where they live - a safe space to learn and grow during this time of uncertainty,” said Shannon Laine, president and CEO of HealthWorks! Kids’ Museum St. Louis. “With the generous donations and support from the community, we will be able to provide crucial resources for some of the most at-risk children in our community, keeping them safe and making sure they stay on track with their education while physically going to school is not an option.” HealthWorks! Kids’ Museum St. Louis is located at 1100 Macklind Ave. in St. Louis and will remain open to the general public on Saturdays and Sundays while the Fall Learning Support Camp is in session. For additional information about Healthworks! or the Fall Learning Support Camp, visit www.hwstl.org, like the museum on Facebook or follow them on Instagram @ healthworkskidsstl.
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SEPTEMBER 2020 | OUR TOWN | 7
AroundTown
Be counted The 2020 U.S. Census ends Sept. 30 You may have heard the 2020 U.S. Census deadline was extended to Sept. 30. When you take 10 minutes to complete the census, you’re helping local municipalities achieve an accurate count that enables the city to access federal resources and receive funding for public projects. Accurate information not only helps local businesses stay open but also promotes economic development, new business attraction and job creation. The 2020 U.S. Census is also important to local municipalities for a variety of other reasons. The census totals determine funding amounts that state and local governments receive from the federal level for the next decade. Accurate census counts ensure that funding is equitably distributed for numerous programs such as Medicaid, highway planning and construction, special education grants, Community Block Development grants, the
Northwest Views . . .
National School Lunch Program, Head Start and more. Ultimately, the census is about dollars and democracy. Many programs critical to our community are funded through federal dollars. Allocations that support these programs are determined by the data collected during the census. Participating and reporting every single person staying at your address, adults and children, helps your city. Your information is protected by law and will only be used for the purposes outlined by the Census Bureau; there is no reason not to participate. The census is a questionnaire that consists of nine questions. You will be able to respond on-line, by mail or over the phone. All information you submit is private and will not be accessed by any local, state or federal agency. It is very important that you are counted. Visit the website at www.2020census.gov.
BY DR. KEITH A. MARTY, ED.D.
Parkway School Districts meets challenges head on as schoolyear begins Parkway, like every other school district in the region and in the nation, has intensely engaged in planning for the 202021 school year. It is being called “reentry” back into school in the era of COVID-19. Our students have been away from our classrooms for over five months, and they need to get back in school. Due to the current spread of the virus and the related health and safety needs of students and staff, Parkway has decided that our first quarter (through Oct. 23) will have instruction delivered virtually in all grades. This will also provide much needed certainty and consistency for families as they plan to support their children at home. Over the summer, we have worked hard to make this fall’s experience much better for students and families than it was last spring when we were operating in an emergency mode. Teachers have spent the past few months preparing for the potential of a virtual format. They will be ready to deliver a high quality learning experience for our students. I want to suggest three new behaviors, virtues and human characteristics we all need to possess and share in the months ahead. The first is “patience.” We are used to definite answers and a clear roadmap provided by leaders. We all need to be patient with one another, and accept responses such as “I’m not sure,” “We will do our best,” and “Give us time.” The second virtue is “flexibility.” School district approaches
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in the region will likely be multifaceted. There will be choices to be made by parents, and as the year progresses, schools may need to change schedules. Finally, we all need to be “nimble.” Nimbleness is the ability to change direction, change schedules and daily routines quickly, but effectively. Military personnel practice nimbleness – a quick change of plans, accompanied by the ability to adjust as if we knew the predicted plans would change. I have no doubt we can have a productive and successful year of learning and teaching, knowing it may not be “normal” as we have planned and predicted in the past. In March, our spring break was extended and eventually, the face-to-face instruction canceled. Educators, students and parents all stepped up. Were the results perfect – no; were there problems – yes; but did everyone try and were there sincere efforts and sincere care for children – yes. Let’s all work together as we did in the past months. And I ask you all to be patient, flexible and nimble in the days ahead.
Dr. Keith A. Marty, Ed.D. is Superintendent of Parkway School District.
AroundTown
Ready to build St. Louis Regional Freightway strengthens commitment to providing business leaders information on development ready sites
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On Aug. 7, The St. Louis Regional Freightway launched the expanded Featured Real Estate Sites Map section of its website, which features a wealth of information about the bi-state St. Louis region’s growing real estate market with its abundance of warehouse/ distribution buildings and land sites ready for all types of industrial and corporate users. The new tool is another offering from St. Louis Regional Freightway, which is committed to being the source of up-to-date information for the entire industrial market as it works to provide both marketing for active sites and accurate listings for interested parties. The Featured Real Estate Sites Map section at www.thefreightway.com/ real-estate/ provides a unique look at the region and pulls data from both the Illinois and Missouri sides of the Mississippi River. Sites span from the city of St. Louis and multiple surrounding counties in the bi-state area and include opportunities at two airports. “The goal is to collaborate between municipalities, counties, and cities in the St. Louis region and market This aerial view of Earth City shows plots of land that are available for development. the entire St. Louis MSA as an active, business-focused, growth-ready region primed for further industrial deaccurate real estate sites information. You can easily find availvelopment,” said Mary Lamie, head of the St. Louis Regional able sites and see who you should contact for more information. Freightway and Executive Vice President of Multi Modal Enterpris- It makes gathering market data easy, and it’s great to know that es at Bi-State Development. people can reach out to the St. Louis Regional Freightway for adThe availability of large, pad-ready, industrial development sites ditional information whenever needed.” is important for developers and users that have immediate needs The sites are all located in the bi-state St. Louis region, which is and expansion requirements. The St. Louis Regional Freightway becoming increasingly recognized as business focused and persite is tracking 37 sites with more than 8,000-plus acres avail- fectly situated to help companies both large and small, seeking able for development. These sites are actively updated with site a single location with global access. The region is suited for opinformation, pricing changes, and accurate contact information erations ranging from a global headquarters to manufacturing to make it easy for anyone searching for potential operation loca- operations to distribution hubs to call centers or service centers at tions. Data is compiled through communication with brokers and a cost-effective level. It allows companies to find the right spots developers around the region and also from third party property for every branch of their company in a single region while havdatabases. It is provided without cost to property owners, brokers, ing a global reach. The abundance of developable land makes and developers because the St. Louis Regional Freightway knows it easy to get a site selected, construction started, and operations the data is valuable and having it easily accessible to national site commenced. selectors and business leaders results in positive growth for the “St. Louis not only has the places and the people that comSt. Louis region. The website is regularly updated with new sites panies need to grow but also all has the logistical advantages added, when needed. of being in the middle of it all, which allows easy access to their Sites included on the website must all meet the following crite- supply chain,” said Gray. “The Real Estate section of the St. Louis ria: the developable land is 20 acres or larger; the site is being Regional Freightway website is the best spot to find all of the upactively marketed; existing structures are modern bulk buildings to-date information for industrial sites across the entire region.” (minimum 24’ clear height); the location has access to a major Tom Roderick, President of R&S Machining, Inc., agrees that the transportation highway, rail spur (or rail potential), seaport ac- new online resource is a tremendous asset for those seeking a cess, or runway access; and, lastly, that entitlements and utilities location to site or expand and business. are in place. “Site selection is based on market knowledge and the best de“People want to be able to go to one website and gather infor- cisions are made when you have access to accurate data,” said mation about a market,” said Allison Gray, Vice President, Stead- Roderick. “Knowing that there is a site dedicated to the St. Louis fast City Economic & Community Partners. “The St. Louis Regional freight and distribution market that will have the latest real estate Freightway not only provides comprehensive information about sites information is incredibly helpful. Accurate contact informathe St. Louis industrial market, but it also is dedicated to providing tion makes the process of finding the right spot much easier.”
SEPTEMBER 2020 | OUR TOWN | 9
Parks on the ballot
The revenue from the passage of Proposition C would be used to improve and maintain the city’s local parks and stormwater infrastructure
BY CHARLOTTE BEARD The residents of Creve Coeur may soon be the beneficiaries of a special Parks and Stormwater Fund if Proposition C passes this November. The revenue from the imposed sales tax of one-half of one percent will be used to improve and maintain the city’s local parks and stormwater infrastructure. In 2019, the Creve Coeur Parks and Recreation Master Plan was created to help identify needed improvements in the parks as well as to gather recommendations for new amenities and renovations, trail system expansion and new recreation facilities. A master plan survey was created to gather input from the Creve Coeur community. “Citizen input suggested a desire for improvements to parks and new amenities well beyond what the city’s current funding could provide,” stated Melissa Orscheln, Creve Coeur’s Public Information Officer and Management Analyst. The administration received input for its parks as summarized below, which has become part of the Creve Coeur Parks and Recreation Master Plan:
THE SHOW MUST GO ON
PHOTOS
COUR-
The Creve Coeur Parks and Recreation Master Plan recommends improvements to existing park trails, such as replacing the asphalt trail in Malcolm Terrace Park and developing the nature trails.
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Dr. H. Phillip Venable Memorial Park • Resurface asphalt trail • Water play feature • Replace picnic pavilion • Dog park • New playground for ages 2-5 • Replace pedestrian bridge connecting neighborhoods Millennium Park • Asphalt trail resurfacing • Playground improvements • Educational nature trail • Outdoor fitness equipment • Amphitheater/band stand
(From Left) Creve Coeur Parks and Recreation Master Plan recommends improvements to existing park trails, such as resurfacing the asphalt trail at Conway Park; An eroded culvert pipe in Creve Coeur; The edge of a residential street in Creve Coeur collapses after a heavy rain storm in August eroded the roadway base around the culvert pipe below.
Conway Park • Resurface asphalt trails • Expand parking lot • Dredge pond to allow fishing • Disc golf Malcolm Terrace Park • Replace asphalt trail • Replace pavilion • Replace play equipment • Develop nature trails • Multi-use court LaVerne Collins Park • Improve benches/picnic table • Dog park • Community garden Lake School Park • Pickleball courts • Perimeter walking path • New tennis courts and facilities • Interpretive/educational elements related to historic Lake School “Our city parks provide many benefits besides being great places to exercise,” stated David McCoy, Creve Coeur Parks and Historic Preservation Committee Chair. “They also provide economic benefits to businesses, increase property values and reduce air pollution and water run-off. Overall, they improve the quality of life in the community and this is something we should recognize.” In 2012, the Stormwater Master Plan was created to identify problem areas where excess run-off causes flooding, erosion, and potential damage to properties. “The City’s Capital Improvement Program identifies approximately $13 million in stormwater-related improvements as ‘future projects’ – projects for which no funding or schedule have been identified,” stated Richard Koch, Chair of the Creve Coeur Stormwater Committee. “Many of these projects – to address erosion, flooding, and stormwater infrastructure – will not be addressed in the foreseeable future without a significant increase in funding.”
PHOTOS COURTESY CITY OF CREVE COEUR
According to Orscheln, “The city currently responds to stormwater issues on an emergency basis due to the lack of funding. With a dedicated revenue source, the city could fundamentally change its approach to stormwater management, shifting from reacting to emergencies to proactively planning needed improvements and maintenance.” Some of the major improvements under the Stormwater Master Plan involve culvert replacements (pipes that carry a creek under a road), infrastructure improvements, and improvements for stream bank erosion. Creve Coeur states that several culverts have deteriorated and require rehabilitation or replacement. The city also states that if the pipes fail before they are replaced it would mean addressing the issue in an emergency at a higher expense. Creve Coeur states that in a non-emergency each culvert project ranges from $125,000 to $300,000. Currently, eight infrastructure improvement projects estimated at a total of $500,000 have been identified. The city states that many of its older streets were built decades ago and lack the stormwater infrastructure required under current standards. To date, an estimated $700,000 is needed for ten erosion-related projects. Creve Coeur neighborhoods built along streams such as Deer Creek, Smith Creek, and Monsanto-Sunswept Creek are seeing erosion in backyards and common grounds. Each project may take several years to plan, design and construct a solution. “The parks and stormwater master plans are certainly synergistic,” stated Orscheln. “Our creeks and streams run through several of our parks, resulting in stream bank erosion and subsequently damage to bridges and other park infrastructure. For example, erosion around the bends of Deer Creek within Malcolm Terrace Park have caused the city to close the bridge near Townsend Street and postpone plans to expand the paved trail near Elzey Street. Each location will need its own design, permitting, and construction of a solution – with an estimated total cost exceeding $1 million.” Orscheln states that the city council will work closely with the Parks & Historic Preservation Committee and the Stormwater Committee to establish the top priorities based on each of the master plans. The first projects, pending the passing of Proposition C, would be under construction in the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2021. The above projects will be candidates for early implementation, according to Orscheln.
SEPTEMBER 2020 | OUR TOWN | 11
OurThoughts MOORE ON LIFE BY CINDY MOORE
Can of worms Well it’s September and you know what that means?
2020 isn’t over yet? Exactly! Three more months and counting. I don’t think the world can wait for this year to end. We haven’t had this much anticipation for something since our local grocery store said they were getting a new shipment of double-ply toilet paper. But fear not Debbie-downers and lovers of all things Twilight Zone-ish. 2020 hasn’t disappointed. It continues. Like a bad penny, it seems like 2020 just keeps coming back. And speaking of pennies, have you heard? There’s a change shortage. Even bad pennies are hard to come by now. What’s that all about? It seems like since everything’s been shut down there’s a crimp in the coin circulation. Plus the mint that stamps out the money has cut back on production and has let half of its staff stay at home due to the virus. All together there’s less ching ching. You know what that means? All us hoarders with pickle jars filled with spare change need to do our patriotic duty and turn it loose back into circulation. And all those pennies lying around which people once stuck their noses up at and passed by, now have a new appreciation. Hmm? Just maybe that’s why there are so many clashes in the streets nowadays. Random citizen: “Hey! There’s a penny on the sidewalk.” Second random citizen: “Back off! I saw it first!” Third random citizen: “That’s not a penny. That’s a NICKEL!” Cue full on street riot to begin. So not only has this year affected the metals being produced at the mint, but now there’s an aluminum shortage. Does that mean there’s less aluminum foil? No biggie. I
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can always get away with using baggies or plastic wrap. Besides, isn’t that what Tupperware is for? Not a huge problem… What’s that? Aluminum cans are in short supply too. Therefore cans of my favorite soda may be in short supply, therefore people will start stock piling them like a repeat of the great toilet paper shortage of 2020! Excuse me…I have to get down to my local grocery store. Something tells me there’s a lineup already!
Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder.
OurThoughts The car’s trip computer told tous. The same folks that came me I had spent 38 hours and 25 here to escape the urban junminutes driving during the previgle seem determined to make ous five-day period across the this area just as uninhabitable Rocky Mountain States to the Paas the places from where they cific Northwest, and back home. came. On the plus side of the Of those hours, roughly three ledger, most people are reawere spent under cloud cover. The sonably intelligent and behave other 35-plus hours were spent accordingly. And so far no one travelling under a relentless sun has been hurt, and no structhat has baked the western United tures have been damaged. States brown. Here in the neighborhood, Virtually all the vegetation was we’re doing what we can to get brown unless well-irrigated. The through it. A big tree-removal leaves on trees were shriveling campaign earlier in the year and turning brown. Grasses and was very effective at creating bushes were of a similar parched, fire breaks along our formerlydusty earth-tone. Even the sky overgrown roads. Our irrigawas brown from blowing dust and tion water is still flowing desmoke from wildfires, sparked by spite the exceptional drought, lightning, electrical problems and and everyone keeps fire extinhuman carelessness. guishers on hand. A new fire Overheated vehicles were regusiren was installed on a utility lar fixtures parked on the roadside pole which, with luck, will never with the hoods up, and frustrated need to be activated. None of owners on phones summoning these measures had been takhelp. Seeing a tow truck broken en two years ago when a large down on the shoulder in a similar wildfire erupted in a different state made me feel grateful that area nearby. Now that we’ve my car ran without a hiccup. seen first-hand what that posArriving home after my long sibility looks like, tree-cutting ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE journey, the heat and lack of moisand the efficient use of water BY AVALANCHE ture here in the mountains is “outare high on everyone’s list of side of 1979-2019 climatology,” priorities. in the appropriately dry words of a Lots of residents are loading recent NOAA forecast discussion. Formerly lush landscapes are up trailers and campers should the need to evacuate come to pass. shriveled and parched, despite regular watering. 95 degrees with This brings up the inevitable debate about what is important to 13 percent humidity is not conducive to better lawn and gardens. keep and what we could live without. Unpleasant discussions are It is however, horribly efficient for driving wildfires. held, and difficult judgments are made, with the hope that our There were three wildfires generating lots of smoke along my efforts will not be necessary. We’re fortunate to have that luxury; way home. Two are continuing to burn and grow two weeks later. some of our friends lost a home two years ago to a rapidly moving Another has erupted along the interstate highway just 20 miles wildfire, escaping with only the clothes on their backs. away. It raced up canyon walls and jumped to both sides of the Much of this is old-hat to those who’ve lived with high fire danger river within hours of starting along the highway shoulder. It has for years. It’s only recently that our area has acquired the moniker grown to over 27,000 acres, with no containment. The temps are ‘California East.’ At some point, cooler and wetter weather will forecast to get even hotter over the next few days, with some dry arrive, and give us more time to prepare for and prevent the next thunderstorms in the mix for added excitement. round of smoke and flames. Some days the smoke blows our way and our valley gets blanketed by clouds of the dense, acrid smelling fog, with visibility not much more than one mile. “Unsafe for sensitive groups” is the official jargon describing the air condition right now, which fluctuates from completely socked-in, to just very hazy. The current fire is not likely to spread here; our main concern is that the slightest spark could start another blaze closer to home. Listening to police and fire scanner traffic highlights spectacular exAvalanche is a functional illiterate who left the St. amples of stupidity. Despite the obvious smoke in the air, the closed Louis area three decades ago in search of adveninterstate highway and the region-wide well-publicized fire ban, ture. He enjoys motorcycling and all things outdoors. He lives with his wife and dogs. illegal campfires and negligent cigarette disposal remain ubiqui-
there’s fire
Where there’s smoke,
SEPTEMBER 2020
| OUR TOWN | 13
OurLifestyle
DODGE CHALLENGER
2 0 2 0 a head turner for any budget If you happen to do a quick online search of the word “widebody,” all sorts of varied aviation images instantly pop up. With that thought, Dodge has also adopted this same terminology with their five-passenger Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody acclaimed performance vehicle for 2020. It’s defined by Challenger’s overall side dimensions being expanded by some threeand-a-half inches wider at the flared fender openings. Adding to the coupe’s brawny appearance, the widebody design helps accommodate the car’s “steam roller” oversized wide 305/35ZR20 Pirelli racing tires mounted on robust 20-inch X 11-inch forged aluminum wheels. When comparing the all-inclusive WB version to the standard body Challenger, it’s fairly easy to pinpoint the differences. Its burly footprint stands out with its distinctive appearance and its muscular zooming presence. While test driving the 2020 model, it had amazing, head-turning curb appeal, with a modest hint of the initial design from the early 70s. When complete strangers take photos of this vehicle, it obviously translates to elevated styling and a remarkable achievement for Fiat/Chrysler’s Dodge Division. Naturally, Challenger is manufactured in a large array of trim levels, eye-candy lively colors, various exclusive exterior graphics, tire and wheel options plus engine and transmission combinations, in order to reach a vast array of buyers. My seat time with the R/T Scat Pack Widebody version had a sticker price of $56,450; but for that 14 | OUR TOWN | SEPTEMBER 2020
amount, you’re getting an awe-inspiring vehicle that’s quite suitable for driving the tots to get ice cream or take it out on the track if you have that temptation as well. I can’t help but reflect years ago when I was involved in dragstrip racing in which I overheard a newbie in the pit area ask a team owner “How much does it cost to build a race car?” The team owner responded by saying, “How fast do you want to go?” Honestly, this same logic tends to still carry forward! With Challenger, we’re starting with a base price of $28,095. From there, we begin checking the option boxes for fun extras and upgrades. The performance goodies include a 392 V-8 engine that’s rated at close to 500 assertive horsepower. This Hemi powerplant is linked with their highly-developed, eight-speed, computergoverned TorqueFlite automatic transmission. When you press the keyless ignition/ push starter button, the rumble of the exhaust note is quite telling! And in the tradition of racing, this car is set up on a rear-wheel-drive chassis, AWD is yet another option. Additionally included is their high-performance competition style/ customizable suspension as well as with an all-speed electronic traction control system, driver piloted electronic launch control, high-end Brembo track ready brakes and a unique front lower fascia. A large 8.4-inch center dash color display touch screen is included with voice command controls and Bluetooth connectivity as well as a tilt/telescope steering column, heated steering wheel and heated
front seats. The factory’s safety enhancements also proves to be a lengthy list that helps with piece of mind driving. When it comes to handling, the nicely-tuned Bilstein adaptive underside allows the Challenger WB to steer with precision and predictable certainty. With passing power being a hallmark, the factory specs reflect 0-60 MPH in just 4.5 seconds. EPA fuel consumption numbers show 15-MPG city and 24-MPG highway. Premium high octane fuel is recommended. Dodge is all about ordering the right Challenger, to match your customizing preference. The factory powertrain warranty is for five-years/60,000 miles, along with its bumper-to-bumper blanket coverage for three-years/36,000 miles. Challenger tends to compete with the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. 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
Looking back at ‘CHARIOTS OF FIRE’
At the 54th Academy Awards ceremony in 1982, the Best Picture nominees included “Atlantic City,” “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” the heart-tugging “On Golden Pond” and Warren Beatty’s ambitious “Reds.” However, after that final envelope was opened, “Chariots of Fire” beat out the other nominees. This film also won Oscars for Best Original Screenplay, Best Original Music Score and Best Costume Design. The main theme composed by Greek musician Vangelis later became an iconic piece of music. “Chariots of Fire” came to mind after I read about the death of actor Ben Cross at age 72. Cross, along with actor Ian Charleson, took the lead roles in that award-winning film. It tells a simple, yet profound story of strength, courage and belief set against an extremely competitive backdrop. Even though they didn’t win individual Oscars for their acting, I like to credit these two actors for helping make this an award-winning film. Cross played Harold Abrahams, the son of a Jewish immigrant. As portrayed onscreen, Harold Abrahams was an extremely ambitious young man who had served as a lieutenant in the British Army. An accomplished athlete, he also earned spots on Britain’s 1920 and 1924 Olympic teams. Despite his achievements, he faced prejudice because of his faith and heritage. After the Olympics, Abrahams went on to become a successful author and sports journalist. Charleson, who passed away in 1990, played Eric Liddell, a Scottish runner, rugby player and missionary. Before he joined Abrahams at the Olympics, the two men were athletic rivals of sorts. The on-screen Abrahams believed he could breeze by “The
Flying Scotsman” in one race, but Liddell beat him to the finish line. A bit shaken by that loss, Abrahams was later successful at the Olympics, winning gold and silver medals. A man of deep faith, the real-life Liddell is credited with some amazing quotes, some of which show up in “Chariots of Fire.” When talking about running in one event, he said “The secret of my success in the 400m is that I run the first 200m as fast as I can. Then, for the second 200m, with God’s help I run faster.” Liddell also compares faith to running in a race, saying “it’s hard, requires concentration of will and energy of soul.” He even defends his dual passions of athletics and missionary work in one scene by saying “God made me fast. And when I run, I feel his pleasure.” “Chariots of Fire” remains one of my all-time favorite films. Even though Ben Cross and Ian Charleson are no longer with us, this movie serves as reminder of their talents as well as the contributions of the men they portrayed on screen.
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 2020
| OUR TOWN | 15
OurLifestyle
POWERFUL PAIRINGS
Make taste and nutrition a priority for family meals According to the “Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior,” studies have proven that eating meals together as a family can improve communication and relationships, which is especially important during times of uncertainty and life’s more difficult moments. Great-tasting foods like pork and pulses can be combined to bring families together with quality nutrition, which helps bodies survive and thrive. Find more information, resources and recipes at powerfulpairings.com.
Ingredients: Burger Patties: 1 pound ground pork 4 tablespoons red onion, scrubbed with vegetable brush under running water and finely minced 1 teaspoon garlic, minced 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder 2 teaspoons ancho chili powder 1 cup cooked black-eyed peas, drained 1 teaspoon salt, plus additional, to taste 4 slices Jack cheese
Caramelized Onions: 2 tablespoons butter 1 large onion, scrubbed with vegetable brush under running water and sliced thin 1/2 cup water 1/2 teaspoon salt Charred Green Chili Mayo: 1 can (3 ounces) diced green chilies 2/3 cup mayonnaise 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 tablespoon lime juice 2 green onions, gently rubbed under cold running water and finely sliced 1/4 cup cilantro, gently rubbed under cold running water and chopped 4 hamburger buns 1 avocado, peeled and sliced 1/2 head lettuce, gently rubbed under cold running water 16 | OUR TOWN | SEPTEMBER 2020
Green Chili Jack Smash Burgers
Recipe courtesy of the National Pork Board and USA Pulses Servings: 4
In large bowl, mix ground pork, onion, garlic and chili powders. Add black-eyed peas and salt; mix well. Form into four loosely packed balls and refrigerate at least 30 minutes. To make Caramelized Onions: In large skillet over medium-high heat, warm butter. Add onions, water and salt; cook, stirring, until onions soften and turn golden brown, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside. To make Charred Green Chili Mayo: Place green chilies in hot cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, turning, until chilies begin to soften and turn black. Remove from heat and place in small bowl. Add mayonnaise, garlic and lime juice; whisk to blend. Add green onions and cilantro; stir well and refrigerate. To make burgers: Warm cast iron or nonstick griddle pan over medium-high heat. Place pork balls on hot skillet; flatten with heavy metal spatula. Season with salt, to taste. Cook approximately 3 minutes; flip and cook 2-3 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145 F. Lightly toast buns. Place each burger on toasted bun with slice of cheese, Caramelized Onions, Charred Green Chili Mayo, avocado and lettuce.
OurLifestyle Pork Chops with Smashed Yellow Peas and Black-Eyed Pea Gravy Recipe courtesy of the National Pork Board and USA Pulses Servings: 4 Ingredients: 2 cups yellow split peas, cooked and drained 1/4 cup, plus 2 tablespoons, softened butter, divided 1/4 cup cream 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus additional, to taste 4 pork chops pepper, to taste
2 1
tablespoons olive oil onion, gently rubbed under cold running water and diced 1 can black-eyed peas with juice 1/8 cup flour 1 cup milk
Directions: In medium bowl, use fork or potato masher to mash peas. Stir in 1/4 cup butter, cream and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Season pork chops with additional salt and pepper, to taste. In large skillet, warm oil over medium heat. Add pork chops to pan and cook approximately 4 minutes per side, or until they reach internal temperature of 145 F. Remove pork chops from pan; keep warm. In same pan, add remaining butter, onion and black-eyed peas. Cook 2-3 minutes until warm throughout, scraping pan. Add flour and season with salt and pepper, to taste. While stirring, slowly add milk. Serve mashed peas topped with pork chops and black-eyed pea gravy.
Cuban Black Beans
Recipe courtesy of Carolina Molea on behalf of the National Pork Board and USA Pulses Serving: 6 Ingredients: 1 quart water 1 green bell pepper, scrubbed with vegetable brush under running water and diced, divided 4 cloves garlic, peeled, divided 1 cup dried black beans, rinsed and soaked overnight 1 bay leaf 2 tablespoons olive oil Directions: Fill large pot with water. Add 1/2 diced green pepper, two garlic cloves, beans and bay leaf. Bring to boil over high heat. Reduce heat, cover and simmer until beans are tender, about 1 hour.
In skillet over medium-high heat, warm olive oil. Add bacon; cook, turning, until bacon starts to brown, about 2 minutes. Add remaining green pepper and onion; cook, stirring, until slightly softened, about 3 minutes.
2 slices bacon, diced 1/2 Spanish onion, scrubbed with vegetable brush under running water and diced 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
Chop remaining garlic cloves. Add to skillet with oregano, cumin and black pepper. Stir 1 minute. Pour in vinegar, scraping browned bits from bottom of pan with wooden spoon. When beans are cooked, discard bay leaf. Transfer 1 cup beans to blender; blend to make paste. Return blended beans to large pot. Add bacon mixture and sugar. Stir well; bring to boil over medium heat. Lower heat, simmer and cook, uncovered, 20 minutes, skimming foam from top. SEPTEMBER 2020
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InDepth
Dancing from a distance
PHOTOS COURTESY SAINT LOUIS BALLET
Saint Louis Ballet to hold virtual performances as the company looks to bring dance to audiences in spite of the COVID-19 pandemic SUBMITTED PHOTOS
Saint Louis Ballet will stream its “This Is Who We Are” production, set to the music of J. S. Bach, Oct. 24 – 27 from their ballet studio.
18 | OUR TOWN | SEPTEMBER 2020
BY CHARLOTTE BEARD
The sports and entertainment industry has had some significant interruptions this year due to COVID-19, but they are finding various ways to overcome the obstacles. Saint Louis Ballet is not immune to these obstacles, and they will be returning this fall and holiday season with two productions. Saint Louis Ballet will stream its “This Is Who We Are” production, set to the music of J. S. Bach, Oct. 24 – 27 from their ballet studio. One complimentary ticket per household can be obtained on their website for the Oct. 24 - 7:30 p.m. streaming (https://www.stlouisballet.org). A link for the performance will be provided by the ballet and will be active four days. Patrons are also able to donate a gift of $10 to the Saint Louis Ballet during their online checkout.
InDepth
“Our staff are continuously employed and (primarily) working remotely since the stay-at-home order (issued) in March,” stated Executive and Artistic Director Gen Horiuchi. “All of our professional dancers are on a summer break since May, but they will return to work for rehearsals and performances in September.” Though the dancers will not perform before a live audience, Horiuchi is optimistic about the performances. “Just like any other professional sports such as baseball and football this season,” stated Horiuchi, “we have not had a chance to perform without (a) live audience in the past, so it will be interesting to see how they will do. But the professional dancers’ daily practice has no audience. I believe they will be (simply) fine.” For as safety measures for the performances, Horiuchi stated that the production plans to have no more than three or four dancers in a studio at one time during class and rehearsals. Horiuchi stated that pre-COVID-19, Saint Louis Ballet normally performs two to three performances for Valentine’s Day weekend, a spring series of four performances in April (Swan Lake was cancelled), a summer series of two performances at the Grandel Theater in May, and three to four October performances prior to December. Though the administrative staff have been able to continue work remotely, Saint Louis Ballet began a Dancers First – Critical Relief Fund to help with the impact to their performing artists (visit the website). “Saint Louis Ballet is one of the few local performing arts organizations that employs a resident company of artists,” states leadership for the organization. “Our dancers have built their careers here in St. Louis, and they contribute greatly to the culture of our city - performing, teaching, mentoring and sharing their talents with young people at studios, schools and community centers throughout St. Louis. Our dancers are the heart and soul of Saint Louis Ballet - and they keep dance vibrant and alive in our region.” Saint Louis Ballet will keep their annual tradition of performing the Nutcracker. Streaming will take place on Saturdays – Dec. 12 and Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. and Sundays – Dec. 13 and Dec. 20 at 2 p.m. from Touhill Performing Arts Center. This season’s performances will also include behind-the-scenes interviews. In addition, people who choose a VIP package will have the option of receiving the delivery of holiday treats from Butler’s Pantry as well as the opportunity to participate in an online auction and holiday boutique. Visit the ballet’s website for details on the coming availability of tickets and other opportunities. “On the horizon in 2021 are ballets by renowned choreographers such as George Balanchine, Twyla Tharp, Peter Martins, and Justin Peck – the Tony Award-winning dancer and choreographer who is choreographing the new ‘West Side Story’ film alongside Steven Spielberg,” stated Horiuchi. “Due to the uncertainties of COVID-19 and the challenges the pandemic imposes, we will wait to announce formats and details of the 2021 ballets.” SEPTEMBER 2020
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September Labor Day
18
Air Force Birthday
11
Patriot Day
19
Rosh Hashana
12
Carl Garner Federal Lands Cleanup Day
22
First Day of Autumn
13
National Grandparents Day
27
Gold Star Mother’s Day
17
Constitution Day and Citizenship Day
28
Yom Kippur
7